{"id": "pubmed23n0015_0", "title": "Decreased heat-labile opsonic activity and complement levels associated with evidence of C3 breakdown products in infected pleural effusions.", "content": "Heat-labile opsonic activity was measured simultaneously in serum and pleural fluid of patients with transudates, infectious exudates (with positive or negative bacterial culture) and neoplastic exudates, using two different complement-dependent phagocytic tests: the killing of Staphylococcus aureus Wood 46 variant strain (K50 opsonic titers) and the assessment of ingestion rate of endotoxin-coated paraffin particles (Oil Red 0 uptake test). K50 opsonic titers were lower in culture-positive pleural effusions as compared to culture-negative (P < 0.002) or neoplastic effusions (P < 0.002). These results were corroborated by the Oil Red 0 uptake test. The data obtained with the two assays showed a significant correlation (P < 0.001). The hemolytic activity of complement (CH50) as well as the levels of C3 breakdown product, C3d, were measured in the same sera and pleural fluid samples and in an additional group of patients with pleural effusions of the same etiology. Effusions with positive cultures showed lower CH50 values (P < 0.01) and higher C3d values (P < 0.05) when compared to culture-negative pleural fluids. Finally, evidence for immune complexes in pleural effusions and sera was looked for by determination of Clq binding activity. Levels were higher in culture-positive effusions when compared to culture-negative fluids (P = 0.005).K50 opsonic titers showed a positive correlation with CH50 values (P < 0.001) for all fluids tested. Similarly Clq binding activity correlated with C3d levels in effusions of infectious origin (P = 0.05). Recovery experiments using the various bacterial species isolated from culture-positive pleural effusions showed evidence of complement inactivation upon incubation with pooled sera at concentrations of 10(7)-10(8) microorganisms/ml. These results indicate that one important reason for bacterial persistence in empyema may be decreased opsonization secondary to local consumption of complement.", "contents": "Decreased heat-labile opsonic activity and complement levels associated with evidence of C3 breakdown products in infected pleural effusions. Heat-labile opsonic activity was measured simultaneously in serum and pleural fluid of patients with transudates, infectious exudates (with positive or negative bacterial culture) and neoplastic exudates, using two different complement-dependent phagocytic tests: the killing of Staphylococcus aureus Wood 46 variant strain (K50 opsonic titers) and the assessment of ingestion rate of endotoxin-coated paraffin particles (Oil Red 0 uptake test). K50 opsonic titers were lower in culture-positive pleural effusions as compared to culture-negative (P < 0.002) or neoplastic effusions (P < 0.002). These results were corroborated by the Oil Red 0 uptake test. The data obtained with the two assays showed a significant correlation (P < 0.001). The hemolytic activity of complement (CH50) as well as the levels of C3 breakdown product, C3d, were measured in the same sera and pleural fluid samples and in an additional group of patients with pleural effusions of the same etiology. Effusions with positive cultures showed lower CH50 values (P < 0.01) and higher C3d values (P < 0.05) when compared to culture-negative pleural fluids. Finally, evidence for immune complexes in pleural effusions and sera was looked for by determination of Clq binding activity. Levels were higher in culture-positive effusions when compared to culture-negative fluids (P = 0.005).K50 opsonic titers showed a positive correlation with CH50 values (P < 0.001) for all fluids tested. Similarly Clq binding activity correlated with C3d levels in effusions of infectious origin (P = 0.05). Recovery experiments using the various bacterial species isolated from culture-positive pleural effusions showed evidence of complement inactivation upon incubation with pooled sera at concentrations of 10(7)-10(8) microorganisms/ml. These results indicate that one important reason for bacterial persistence in empyema may be decreased opsonization secondary to local consumption of complement.", "PMID": 429556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1", "title": "Elevated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D plasma levels in normal human pregnancy and lactation.", "content": "Plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels are elevated in early pregnancy and continue to increase throughout pregnancy. They remain elevated postpartum in lactating women. The elevated levels probably represent a physiological response to increased calcium requirements.", "contents": "Elevated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D plasma levels in normal human pregnancy and lactation. Plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels are elevated in early pregnancy and continue to increase throughout pregnancy. They remain elevated postpartum in lactating women. The elevated levels probably represent a physiological response to increased calcium requirements.", "PMID": 429557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2", "title": "Diabetes mellitus and genetic prediabetes. Decreased replicative capacity of cultured skin fibroblasts.", "content": "The idea that the gene(s) that cause diabetes mellitus can be expressed in extrapancreatic cells has been examined by tissue culture techniques. Skin biopsies were obtained from 25 normal subjects (N), 26 overt diabetics (D), 16 of juvenile onset (JOD) and 9 of maturity onset (MOD), and 21 subjects genetically predisposed to diabetes (P) on the basis of maturity-onset diabetes in both parents. Each biopsy was subdivided, multiple skin fragments were explanted in vitro, and several parameters of cellular outgrowth were monitored in primary and secondary cultures until cell division ceased because of senescence. In general, the rank order of growth vigor was N greater than P greater than D although differences were often marginal and statistically significant between N and JOD and(or) MOD. Outgrowth of epithelial cells was more vigorous in N explants in early stages, but later, JOD and MOD cells grew better than those of N. Outgrowth of fibroblast cells from N explants was more vigorous both at early and later stages and required less time to achieve maximum percent outgrowth. In secondary cultures, N cells grew faster than the other three groups so that fewer days elapsed between subcultures but significant differences were only seen between N and one or two of the other groups over some of the first seven subcultures. The onset of cellular senescence occurred earlier in P and JOD cultures both in mean population doublings and calendar time. N cultures had a higher percent surviving clones after picking than MOD, and a shorter recloning time than clones of JOD. The replicative life-spans of cultures (mean population doublings +/- SE) were N = 52.54 +/- 2.24, P = 47.84 +/- 2.43, JOD = 47.12 +/- 2.99, and MOD = 46.40 +/- 4.04, but differences did not reach significance for N vs the other three groups. The data demonstrate that cellular growth is impaired in both JOD and MOD types of cultures and to a generally lesser extent in P cultures. This is consistent with intrinsic genetic defects but the possibility that persistent deleterious effects of in vivo pathophysiology contribute alone or in combination cannot be ruled out. Therefore, the diabetic defect(s) can be expressed in extrapancreatic cells of mesenchymal origin. This system should prove useful in exploring the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in diabetes, the mechanisms(s) of hyperglycemia and other metabolic derangements, and the propensity that affected individuals have to develop degenerative diseases.", "contents": "Diabetes mellitus and genetic prediabetes. Decreased replicative capacity of cultured skin fibroblasts. The idea that the gene(s) that cause diabetes mellitus can be expressed in extrapancreatic cells has been examined by tissue culture techniques. Skin biopsies were obtained from 25 normal subjects (N), 26 overt diabetics (D), 16 of juvenile onset (JOD) and 9 of maturity onset (MOD), and 21 subjects genetically predisposed to diabetes (P) on the basis of maturity-onset diabetes in both parents. Each biopsy was subdivided, multiple skin fragments were explanted in vitro, and several parameters of cellular outgrowth were monitored in primary and secondary cultures until cell division ceased because of senescence. In general, the rank order of growth vigor was N greater than P greater than D although differences were often marginal and statistically significant between N and JOD and(or) MOD. Outgrowth of epithelial cells was more vigorous in N explants in early stages, but later, JOD and MOD cells grew better than those of N. Outgrowth of fibroblast cells from N explants was more vigorous both at early and later stages and required less time to achieve maximum percent outgrowth. In secondary cultures, N cells grew faster than the other three groups so that fewer days elapsed between subcultures but significant differences were only seen between N and one or two of the other groups over some of the first seven subcultures. The onset of cellular senescence occurred earlier in P and JOD cultures both in mean population doublings and calendar time. N cultures had a higher percent surviving clones after picking than MOD, and a shorter recloning time than clones of JOD. The replicative life-spans of cultures (mean population doublings +/- SE) were N = 52.54 +/- 2.24, P = 47.84 +/- 2.43, JOD = 47.12 +/- 2.99, and MOD = 46.40 +/- 4.04, but differences did not reach significance for N vs the other three groups. The data demonstrate that cellular growth is impaired in both JOD and MOD types of cultures and to a generally lesser extent in P cultures. This is consistent with intrinsic genetic defects but the possibility that persistent deleterious effects of in vivo pathophysiology contribute alone or in combination cannot be ruled out. Therefore, the diabetic defect(s) can be expressed in extrapancreatic cells of mesenchymal origin. This system should prove useful in exploring the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in diabetes, the mechanisms(s) of hyperglycemia and other metabolic derangements, and the propensity that affected individuals have to develop degenerative diseases.", "PMID": 429558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3", "title": "Glucose production in pregnant women at term gestation. Sources of glucose for human fetus.", "content": "The effects of pregnancy and diabetes on systemic glucose production rates and the sources of glucose for the human fetus in utero were evaluated in five normal, four gestationally diabetic, and one insulin-dependent diabetic subject undergoing elective caesarean section at term gestation. Five normal nonpregnant women were studied for comparison. Systemic glucose production rates were measured with stable tracer [1-(13)C]glucose according to the prime-constant rate infusion technique. Even though the plasma glucose concentration during normal pregnancy had declined as compared with the nonpregnant subjects (P < 0.0005), the systemic glucose production rate was 16% greater, a rate sufficient to provide the glucose requirement of the fetus at term gestation. The decline in glucose concentration could be the result of an increase in apparent volume of distribution of glucose. Systemic glucose production rates in well-controlled, gestationally diabetic subjects were similar to those in normal pregnant subjects (2.07+/-0.53 vs. 2.42+/-0.51 mg/kg.min). The sources of glucose for the human fetus at term gestation were evaluated by comparing (a) natural variation in (13)C:(12)C ratio of plasma glucose and (b) enriched (13)C:(12)C ratio of plasma glucose during [1-(13)C]glucose infusion in maternal and fetal blood at delivery in both normal and diabetic subjects. These data showed that the fetal glucose pool was in equilibrium with the maternal glucose pool in both normal and diabetic subjects, indicating that a brief maternal fast did not initiate systemic glucose production in human fetus. A materno-fetal gradient was observed for betahydroxybutyrate.", "contents": "Glucose production in pregnant women at term gestation. Sources of glucose for human fetus. The effects of pregnancy and diabetes on systemic glucose production rates and the sources of glucose for the human fetus in utero were evaluated in five normal, four gestationally diabetic, and one insulin-dependent diabetic subject undergoing elective caesarean section at term gestation. Five normal nonpregnant women were studied for comparison. Systemic glucose production rates were measured with stable tracer [1-(13)C]glucose according to the prime-constant rate infusion technique. Even though the plasma glucose concentration during normal pregnancy had declined as compared with the nonpregnant subjects (P < 0.0005), the systemic glucose production rate was 16% greater, a rate sufficient to provide the glucose requirement of the fetus at term gestation. The decline in glucose concentration could be the result of an increase in apparent volume of distribution of glucose. Systemic glucose production rates in well-controlled, gestationally diabetic subjects were similar to those in normal pregnant subjects (2.07+/-0.53 vs. 2.42+/-0.51 mg/kg.min). The sources of glucose for the human fetus at term gestation were evaluated by comparing (a) natural variation in (13)C:(12)C ratio of plasma glucose and (b) enriched (13)C:(12)C ratio of plasma glucose during [1-(13)C]glucose infusion in maternal and fetal blood at delivery in both normal and diabetic subjects. These data showed that the fetal glucose pool was in equilibrium with the maternal glucose pool in both normal and diabetic subjects, indicating that a brief maternal fast did not initiate systemic glucose production in human fetus. A materno-fetal gradient was observed for betahydroxybutyrate.", "PMID": 429559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4", "title": "Reflex inhibition of renal sympathetic nerve activity during myocardial ischemia mediated by left ventricular receptors with vagal afferents in dogs.", "content": "The major goal of this investigation was to determine if activation of cardiac receptors during coronary artery occlusion could inhibit efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity. In nine chloralose anesthetized dogs with only carotid (n = 3) or with sinoaortic (n = 6) baroreceptors operative, anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion resulted in a small decrease in mean arterial pressure (-9.8+/-5.1 mm Hg, NS) and in a significant (P < 0.05) increase in renal nerve activity (24.0+/-4.1%). In these dogs, circumflex coronary artery (Cx) occlusion resulted in greater hypotension (-18.4+/-4.0 mm Hg), and yet no change (1.1+/-9%) in renal nerve activity was noted. Changes in left atrial pressure during LAD and Cx occlusion were not different. In seven dogs with carotid sinus denervation, coronary occlusions resulted in decreases both in arterial pressure and in renal nerve activity which were consistently greater during Cx occlusion. The responses to coronary occlusion in six dogs after sinoaortic deafferentation were similar to those observed with only carotid sinuses denervated. In all experiments, vagotomy abolished the difference in the blood pressure responses and the decreases in renal sympathetic nerve activity during Cx occlusion. Vagotomy also abolished the decrease in nerve activity during LAD occlusion in dogs with carotid or sinoaortic denervation. These data show that Cx occlusion and, to a lesser degree, LAD occlusion resulted in reflex withdrawal of renal sympathetic nerve activity mediated by left ventricular receptors with vagal afferents. The reflex withdrawal of renal nerve activity during Cx occlusion occurred in spite of hypotension and the presence of functioning sinoaortic baroreceptors.", "contents": "Reflex inhibition of renal sympathetic nerve activity during myocardial ischemia mediated by left ventricular receptors with vagal afferents in dogs. The major goal of this investigation was to determine if activation of cardiac receptors during coronary artery occlusion could inhibit efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity. In nine chloralose anesthetized dogs with only carotid (n = 3) or with sinoaortic (n = 6) baroreceptors operative, anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion resulted in a small decrease in mean arterial pressure (-9.8+/-5.1 mm Hg, NS) and in a significant (P < 0.05) increase in renal nerve activity (24.0+/-4.1%). In these dogs, circumflex coronary artery (Cx) occlusion resulted in greater hypotension (-18.4+/-4.0 mm Hg), and yet no change (1.1+/-9%) in renal nerve activity was noted. Changes in left atrial pressure during LAD and Cx occlusion were not different. In seven dogs with carotid sinus denervation, coronary occlusions resulted in decreases both in arterial pressure and in renal nerve activity which were consistently greater during Cx occlusion. The responses to coronary occlusion in six dogs after sinoaortic deafferentation were similar to those observed with only carotid sinuses denervated. In all experiments, vagotomy abolished the difference in the blood pressure responses and the decreases in renal sympathetic nerve activity during Cx occlusion. Vagotomy also abolished the decrease in nerve activity during LAD occlusion in dogs with carotid or sinoaortic denervation. These data show that Cx occlusion and, to a lesser degree, LAD occlusion resulted in reflex withdrawal of renal sympathetic nerve activity mediated by left ventricular receptors with vagal afferents. The reflex withdrawal of renal nerve activity during Cx occlusion occurred in spite of hypotension and the presence of functioning sinoaortic baroreceptors.", "PMID": 429560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5", "title": "Simulated hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome. Impaired insulin and epinephrine effects upon lipolysis in the isolated rat fat cell.", "content": "These investigations were designed to evaluate the effect of excess glucose and sodium chloride on lipolysis in the isolated adipocyte under normal and modelled pathological conditions simulating the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome. Isolated rat fat cells were incubated in the presence of various combinations of sodium chloride, glucose, epinephrine, and insulin. Lipolysis was measured as glycerol and free fatty acid release, and total medium osmolarity as milliosmoles per liter by freezing point depression. Basal lipolysis was unaffected by changes in osmolarity with sodium chloride, but glucose and glucose plus sodium chloride increased basal glycerol release. Increasing osmolarity with sodium chloride diminished the lipolytic response to epinephrine. Increasing osmolarity with glucose augmented the lipolytic response to epinephrine up to a total medium osmolarity of 550 mosmol. Higher osmolarities produced with glucose suppressed the epinephrine-induced lipolytic response.When the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome was simulated with 100 mM glucose and 50 mM sodium chloride (total osmolarity = 460 mosmol) the epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis dose-response curve in the isolated fat cell was shifted to the right. Furthermore, in the presence of 100 mM glucose + 50 mM sodium chloride, physiological concentrations of insulin were less effective in opposing epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis. In the presence of 50 mM glucose and 25 mM sodium chloride (total osmolarity = 370 mosmol) epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis measured as free fatty acid release was decreased by 50%. Under conditions simulating the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome in the isolated rat adipocyte, altered lipolysis reflects impaired effectiveness of both insulin and epinephrine as antilipolytic and lipolytic hormones, respectively. Furthermore, the attenuated response to both hormones appears to be primarily a function of extracellular solute composition. The lack of ketosis is the result of diminished release of free fatty acids from peripheral adipose cells.", "contents": "Simulated hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome. Impaired insulin and epinephrine effects upon lipolysis in the isolated rat fat cell. These investigations were designed to evaluate the effect of excess glucose and sodium chloride on lipolysis in the isolated adipocyte under normal and modelled pathological conditions simulating the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome. Isolated rat fat cells were incubated in the presence of various combinations of sodium chloride, glucose, epinephrine, and insulin. Lipolysis was measured as glycerol and free fatty acid release, and total medium osmolarity as milliosmoles per liter by freezing point depression. Basal lipolysis was unaffected by changes in osmolarity with sodium chloride, but glucose and glucose plus sodium chloride increased basal glycerol release. Increasing osmolarity with sodium chloride diminished the lipolytic response to epinephrine. Increasing osmolarity with glucose augmented the lipolytic response to epinephrine up to a total medium osmolarity of 550 mosmol. Higher osmolarities produced with glucose suppressed the epinephrine-induced lipolytic response.When the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome was simulated with 100 mM glucose and 50 mM sodium chloride (total osmolarity = 460 mosmol) the epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis dose-response curve in the isolated fat cell was shifted to the right. Furthermore, in the presence of 100 mM glucose + 50 mM sodium chloride, physiological concentrations of insulin were less effective in opposing epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis. In the presence of 50 mM glucose and 25 mM sodium chloride (total osmolarity = 370 mosmol) epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis measured as free fatty acid release was decreased by 50%. Under conditions simulating the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome in the isolated rat adipocyte, altered lipolysis reflects impaired effectiveness of both insulin and epinephrine as antilipolytic and lipolytic hormones, respectively. Furthermore, the attenuated response to both hormones appears to be primarily a function of extracellular solute composition. The lack of ketosis is the result of diminished release of free fatty acids from peripheral adipose cells.", "PMID": 429561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6", "title": "Characteristics of volume reabsorption in rabbit superficial and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubules.", "content": "Segments of superficial and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubules of the rabbit were perfused in vitro to examine the mechanisms responsible for net volume reabsorption. The very early postglomerular segments were not studied. Fluid reabsorptive rates and transepithelial potential differences were compared under various conditions: (a) with perfusate that simulated glomerular filtrate; (b) with perfusate that lacked glucose, amino acids, and acetate and that had HCO(3) and Cl concentrations of 5 and 140 mM, respectively; (c) with perfusate that lacked glucose, amino acids, and acetate but with 20 meq of NaHCO(3) replaced with 20 meq of Na cyclamate; (d) with the same perfusate as in b but in the presence of ouabain in the bath; (e) with ultrafiltrate of rabbit serum titrated with HCl to final HCO(3) and Cl concentrations of 2 and 134 mM, respectively. Tubules were perfused with this titrated ultrafiltrate at 37 degrees C, 21 degrees C, and in the presence of 0.1 mM ouabain in the bath. Bath fluid in all experiments was regular rabbit serum. Under conditions a and b superficial proximal convoluted tubule (SFPCT) and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubule (JMPCT) behaved similarly with the exception that SFPCT exhibited a lumen-positive and JMPCT a lumen-negative electrical potential under condition b. However, under condition c SFPCT failed to exhibit net volume reabsorption, whereas reabsorption in JMPCT continued unchanged. Ouabain did not affect volume reabsorption in SFPCT under condition d, whereas neither ouabain nor hypothermia affected SFPCT under condition e. In contrast, ouabain and hypothermia totally inhibited volume reabsorption in JMPCT under conditions d and e. These studies document heterogeneous mechanisms responsible for volume reabsorption in the major portions of SFPCT and JMPCT with passive forces predominating in SFPCT and active forces in JMPCT.", "contents": "Characteristics of volume reabsorption in rabbit superficial and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubules. Segments of superficial and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubules of the rabbit were perfused in vitro to examine the mechanisms responsible for net volume reabsorption. The very early postglomerular segments were not studied. Fluid reabsorptive rates and transepithelial potential differences were compared under various conditions: (a) with perfusate that simulated glomerular filtrate; (b) with perfusate that lacked glucose, amino acids, and acetate and that had HCO(3) and Cl concentrations of 5 and 140 mM, respectively; (c) with perfusate that lacked glucose, amino acids, and acetate but with 20 meq of NaHCO(3) replaced with 20 meq of Na cyclamate; (d) with the same perfusate as in b but in the presence of ouabain in the bath; (e) with ultrafiltrate of rabbit serum titrated with HCl to final HCO(3) and Cl concentrations of 2 and 134 mM, respectively. Tubules were perfused with this titrated ultrafiltrate at 37 degrees C, 21 degrees C, and in the presence of 0.1 mM ouabain in the bath. Bath fluid in all experiments was regular rabbit serum. Under conditions a and b superficial proximal convoluted tubule (SFPCT) and juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubule (JMPCT) behaved similarly with the exception that SFPCT exhibited a lumen-positive and JMPCT a lumen-negative electrical potential under condition b. However, under condition c SFPCT failed to exhibit net volume reabsorption, whereas reabsorption in JMPCT continued unchanged. Ouabain did not affect volume reabsorption in SFPCT under condition d, whereas neither ouabain nor hypothermia affected SFPCT under condition e. In contrast, ouabain and hypothermia totally inhibited volume reabsorption in JMPCT under conditions d and e. These studies document heterogeneous mechanisms responsible for volume reabsorption in the major portions of SFPCT and JMPCT with passive forces predominating in SFPCT and active forces in JMPCT.", "PMID": 429562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7", "title": "Quantitative assessment of polymerized and depolymerized platelet microtubules. Changes caused by aggregating agents.", "content": "The equilibrium between assembled and disassembled microtubules was studied in human platelets exposed to aggregating agents. Soluble and insoluble tubulin were \"frozen\" by addition of a glycerol-dimethyl sulfoxide-containing medium. The two pools were estimated by measuring the colchicine binding activities of total and polymerized tubulin. Resting platelets were found to contain an average of 56.2 mug tubulin/1 x 10(9) cells of which 56.7% was in polymerized form. Platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, ADP, epinephrine, or collagen produced a transient decrease in the pool of polymerized tubulin which was evident within 15 s after addition of the aggregating agent. A return to base-line values occurred within 1-4 min depending upon the specific aggregating agent used. Neither secretory release nor aggregation of platelets were found to be prerequisites for the temporary disturbance of the equilibrium between soluble and polymerized tubulin. With thrombin as the aggregating agent a clear threshold concentration could be demonstrated above with a dose-dependent dissociation response of microtubules was evident. We conclude that microtubules exist in a dynamic equilibrium between polymerized and depolymerized forms in human platelets, which is transiently disturbed by their interaction with aggregating agents.", "contents": "Quantitative assessment of polymerized and depolymerized platelet microtubules. Changes caused by aggregating agents. The equilibrium between assembled and disassembled microtubules was studied in human platelets exposed to aggregating agents. Soluble and insoluble tubulin were \"frozen\" by addition of a glycerol-dimethyl sulfoxide-containing medium. The two pools were estimated by measuring the colchicine binding activities of total and polymerized tubulin. Resting platelets were found to contain an average of 56.2 mug tubulin/1 x 10(9) cells of which 56.7% was in polymerized form. Platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, ADP, epinephrine, or collagen produced a transient decrease in the pool of polymerized tubulin which was evident within 15 s after addition of the aggregating agent. A return to base-line values occurred within 1-4 min depending upon the specific aggregating agent used. Neither secretory release nor aggregation of platelets were found to be prerequisites for the temporary disturbance of the equilibrium between soluble and polymerized tubulin. With thrombin as the aggregating agent a clear threshold concentration could be demonstrated above with a dose-dependent dissociation response of microtubules was evident. We conclude that microtubules exist in a dynamic equilibrium between polymerized and depolymerized forms in human platelets, which is transiently disturbed by their interaction with aggregating agents.", "PMID": 429563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8", "title": "The dynamics of ammonia metabolism in man. Effects of liver disease and hyperammonemia.", "content": "The cyclotron-produced radionuclide, 13N, was used to label ammonia and to study its metabolism in a group of 5 normal subjects and 17 patients with liver disease, including 5 with portacaval shunts and 11 with encephalopathy. Arterial ammonia levels were 52-264 micron. The rate of ammonia clearance from the vascular compartment (metabolism) was a linear function of its arterial concentration: mumol/min = 4.71 [NH3]a + 3.76, r = +0.85, P less than 0.005. Quantitative body scans showed that 7.4 +/- 0.3% of the isotope was metabolized by the brain. The brain ammonia utilization rate, calculated from brain and blood activities, was a function of the arterial ammonia concentration: mumol/min per whole brain = 0.375 [NH3]a - 3.6, r = +0.93, P less than 0.005. Assuming that cerebral blood flow and brain weights were normal, 47 +/- 3% of the ammonia was extracted from arterial blood during a single pass through the normal brains. Ammonia uptake was greatest in gray matter. The ammonia utilization reaction(s) appears to take place in a compartment, perhaps in astrocytes, that includes less than 20% of all brain ammonia. In the 11 nonencephalopathic subjects the [NH3]a was 100 +/- 8 micron and the brain ammonia utilization rate was 32 +/- 3 mumol/min per whole brain; in the 11 encephalopathic subjects these were respectively elevated to 149 +/- 18 micron (P less than 0.01), and 53 +/- 7 mumol/min per whole brain (P less than 0.01). In normal subjects, approximately equal to 50% of the arterial ammonia was metabolized by skeletal muscle. In patients with portal-systemic shunting, muscle may become the most important organ for ammonia detoxification. Muscle atrophy may thereby contribute to the development of hyperammonemic encephalopathy with an associated increase in the brain ammonia utilization rate.", "contents": "The dynamics of ammonia metabolism in man. Effects of liver disease and hyperammonemia. The cyclotron-produced radionuclide, 13N, was used to label ammonia and to study its metabolism in a group of 5 normal subjects and 17 patients with liver disease, including 5 with portacaval shunts and 11 with encephalopathy. Arterial ammonia levels were 52-264 micron. The rate of ammonia clearance from the vascular compartment (metabolism) was a linear function of its arterial concentration: mumol/min = 4.71 [NH3]a + 3.76, r = +0.85, P less than 0.005. Quantitative body scans showed that 7.4 +/- 0.3% of the isotope was metabolized by the brain. The brain ammonia utilization rate, calculated from brain and blood activities, was a function of the arterial ammonia concentration: mumol/min per whole brain = 0.375 [NH3]a - 3.6, r = +0.93, P less than 0.005. Assuming that cerebral blood flow and brain weights were normal, 47 +/- 3% of the ammonia was extracted from arterial blood during a single pass through the normal brains. Ammonia uptake was greatest in gray matter. The ammonia utilization reaction(s) appears to take place in a compartment, perhaps in astrocytes, that includes less than 20% of all brain ammonia. In the 11 nonencephalopathic subjects the [NH3]a was 100 +/- 8 micron and the brain ammonia utilization rate was 32 +/- 3 mumol/min per whole brain; in the 11 encephalopathic subjects these were respectively elevated to 149 +/- 18 micron (P less than 0.01), and 53 +/- 7 mumol/min per whole brain (P less than 0.01). In normal subjects, approximately equal to 50% of the arterial ammonia was metabolized by skeletal muscle. In patients with portal-systemic shunting, muscle may become the most important organ for ammonia detoxification. Muscle atrophy may thereby contribute to the development of hyperammonemic encephalopathy with an associated increase in the brain ammonia utilization rate.", "PMID": 429564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9", "title": "Synthesis and secretion of corticosteroid-binding globulin by rat liver. A source of heterogeneity of hepatic corticosteroid-binders.", "content": "Classical glucocorticoid receptors (type II) have a high affinity for synthetic and natural glucocorticoids. We have previously demonstrated an additional binding site in kidney cytosol (type III) which has a high affinity for corticosterone but a low affinity for dexamethasone. In many ways, this binder resembles plasma corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG). The first goal of this study was to determine the organ distribution of the type III binding sites. Cytosol was prepared from isolated cells to avoid plasma contamination. Of the tissues examined, type III sites were found only in liver and kidney; sites were absent from thymocytes, IM-9 lymphocytes, adipocytes, and bone cells. The second goal of this study was to ascertain whether CBG is synthesized in liver and kidney. Liver and kidney slices were incubated in vitro and the concentration of type III sites was seen to rise in hepatic cytosol and incubating medium but not kidney. To verify the impression that liver was synthesizing and secreting CBG, the following experiments were performed: (a) To demonstrate that type III sites were CBG, steroid-binding profiles and migration on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were shown to be identical for hepatic type III sites and serum. (b) To indicate that the rise in type III sites was dependent on protein synthesis, it was shown that cycloheximide blocked the appearance of new type III sites. (c) To establish that the type III sites were being secreted, in situ liver perfusion experiments showed time-dependent release of new sites into the perfusate. In conclusion, liver synthesizes and secretes type III sites, a finding previously suspected but never proved. The presence of type III sites in kidney remains to be explained.", "contents": "Synthesis and secretion of corticosteroid-binding globulin by rat liver. A source of heterogeneity of hepatic corticosteroid-binders. Classical glucocorticoid receptors (type II) have a high affinity for synthetic and natural glucocorticoids. We have previously demonstrated an additional binding site in kidney cytosol (type III) which has a high affinity for corticosterone but a low affinity for dexamethasone. In many ways, this binder resembles plasma corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG). The first goal of this study was to determine the organ distribution of the type III binding sites. Cytosol was prepared from isolated cells to avoid plasma contamination. Of the tissues examined, type III sites were found only in liver and kidney; sites were absent from thymocytes, IM-9 lymphocytes, adipocytes, and bone cells. The second goal of this study was to ascertain whether CBG is synthesized in liver and kidney. Liver and kidney slices were incubated in vitro and the concentration of type III sites was seen to rise in hepatic cytosol and incubating medium but not kidney. To verify the impression that liver was synthesizing and secreting CBG, the following experiments were performed: (a) To demonstrate that type III sites were CBG, steroid-binding profiles and migration on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were shown to be identical for hepatic type III sites and serum. (b) To indicate that the rise in type III sites was dependent on protein synthesis, it was shown that cycloheximide blocked the appearance of new type III sites. (c) To establish that the type III sites were being secreted, in situ liver perfusion experiments showed time-dependent release of new sites into the perfusate. In conclusion, liver synthesizes and secretes type III sites, a finding previously suspected but never proved. The presence of type III sites in kidney remains to be explained.", "PMID": 429565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10", "title": "Circulating immune complexes in Lyme arthritis. Detection by the 125I-C1q binding, C1q solid phase, and Raji cell assays.", "content": "We have found immunoglobulin (Ig) G-containing material consistent with immune complexes in the sera of patients with Lyme arthritis. It was detected in 29 of 55 sera (55%) from 31 patients by at least one of three assays: (125)I-C1q binding, C1q solid phase, or Raji cell. The presence of reactive material correlated with clinical aspects of disease activity; it was found early in the illness, was most prominent in sera from the sickest patients, was infrequent during remissions, and often fluctuated in parallel with changes in clinical status. The results in the two C1q assays showed a strong positive correlation (P<0.001). They were each elevated in 45% of the sera and were usually concordant (85%). In contrast, the Raji cell assay was less frequently positive and often discordant with the C1q assays. In sucrose density gradients, putative circulating immune complexes sedimented near 19S; they, too, were detected best by the two assays based on C1q binding. An additional 7S component was found in some sera by the (125)I-C1q binding assay. Serum complement was often above the range of normal in patients with mild disease and normal in patients with severe disease but did not correlate significantly with levels of circulating immune complexes. IgM and IgG rheumatoid factors were not detectable. These findings support a role for immune complexes in the pathogenesis of Lyme arthritis. Their measurement, by either the (125)I-C1q binding assay or by the C1q solid phase assay, often provides a sensitive index of disease activity. Moreover, the complexes are likely sources of disease-related antigens for further study of this new disorder.", "contents": "Circulating immune complexes in Lyme arthritis. Detection by the 125I-C1q binding, C1q solid phase, and Raji cell assays. We have found immunoglobulin (Ig) G-containing material consistent with immune complexes in the sera of patients with Lyme arthritis. It was detected in 29 of 55 sera (55%) from 31 patients by at least one of three assays: (125)I-C1q binding, C1q solid phase, or Raji cell. The presence of reactive material correlated with clinical aspects of disease activity; it was found early in the illness, was most prominent in sera from the sickest patients, was infrequent during remissions, and often fluctuated in parallel with changes in clinical status. The results in the two C1q assays showed a strong positive correlation (P<0.001). They were each elevated in 45% of the sera and were usually concordant (85%). In contrast, the Raji cell assay was less frequently positive and often discordant with the C1q assays. In sucrose density gradients, putative circulating immune complexes sedimented near 19S; they, too, were detected best by the two assays based on C1q binding. An additional 7S component was found in some sera by the (125)I-C1q binding assay. Serum complement was often above the range of normal in patients with mild disease and normal in patients with severe disease but did not correlate significantly with levels of circulating immune complexes. IgM and IgG rheumatoid factors were not detectable. These findings support a role for immune complexes in the pathogenesis of Lyme arthritis. Their measurement, by either the (125)I-C1q binding assay or by the C1q solid phase assay, often provides a sensitive index of disease activity. Moreover, the complexes are likely sources of disease-related antigens for further study of this new disorder.", "PMID": 429566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11", "title": "Reduced fibrinogen survival in diabetes mellitus. A reversible phenomenon.", "content": "Fibrinogen survival and turnover were examined in 15 adult-onset diabetic patients. (125)I-labeled fibrinogen was prepared from each patient during the period of poor carbohydrate control, or hyperglycemic period, and fibrinogen survival determined. Improved control was established in each patient and during this euglycemic period, fibrinogen survival was determined simultaneously with (125)I-fibrinogen saved from the hyperglycemic period and (131)I-labeled fibrinogen prepared from the patient during the euglycemic period. The results confirm reduced fibrinogen survival in hyperglycemic diabetic patients and demonstrate reversal of the fibrinogen abnormality when euglycemia is achieved. The results of the double-label experiments in the euglycemic period suggest that the fibrinogen molecule is not altered functionally and that an abnormal plasma or vascular environment is a more likely basis for reduced fibrinogen survival during hyperglycemia. Electrophoretic and chromatographic experiments demonstrated no gross chemical differences between the fibrinogens prepared from the hyperglycemic and euglycemic periods and normal fibrinogen. Fibrinogen survival gave a better correlation with serial glucose measurements than with correction of hemoglobin A(Ic) levels indicating that the reduced fibrinogen survival noted in diabetics is a rapidly reversible phenomenon. During the hyperglycemic period, pharmacological intervention with aspirin and dipyrimadole was attempted to examine the role of platelets in reduced fibrinogen survival. No significant change in fibrinogen survival was observed. Heparin infusion during hyperglycemia normalized the fibrinogen kinetics of hyperglycemic diabetic patients, suggesting that reduced fibrinogen survival during hyperglycemia is secondary to an effect on thrombin or one of its antagonists.", "contents": "Reduced fibrinogen survival in diabetes mellitus. A reversible phenomenon. Fibrinogen survival and turnover were examined in 15 adult-onset diabetic patients. (125)I-labeled fibrinogen was prepared from each patient during the period of poor carbohydrate control, or hyperglycemic period, and fibrinogen survival determined. Improved control was established in each patient and during this euglycemic period, fibrinogen survival was determined simultaneously with (125)I-fibrinogen saved from the hyperglycemic period and (131)I-labeled fibrinogen prepared from the patient during the euglycemic period. The results confirm reduced fibrinogen survival in hyperglycemic diabetic patients and demonstrate reversal of the fibrinogen abnormality when euglycemia is achieved. The results of the double-label experiments in the euglycemic period suggest that the fibrinogen molecule is not altered functionally and that an abnormal plasma or vascular environment is a more likely basis for reduced fibrinogen survival during hyperglycemia. Electrophoretic and chromatographic experiments demonstrated no gross chemical differences between the fibrinogens prepared from the hyperglycemic and euglycemic periods and normal fibrinogen. Fibrinogen survival gave a better correlation with serial glucose measurements than with correction of hemoglobin A(Ic) levels indicating that the reduced fibrinogen survival noted in diabetics is a rapidly reversible phenomenon. During the hyperglycemic period, pharmacological intervention with aspirin and dipyrimadole was attempted to examine the role of platelets in reduced fibrinogen survival. No significant change in fibrinogen survival was observed. Heparin infusion during hyperglycemia normalized the fibrinogen kinetics of hyperglycemic diabetic patients, suggesting that reduced fibrinogen survival during hyperglycemia is secondary to an effect on thrombin or one of its antagonists.", "PMID": 429567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12", "title": "Osteomalacia and hyperparathyroid bone disease in patients with nephrotic syndrome.", "content": "Patients with nephrotic syndrome have low blood levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) most probably because of losses in urine, and a vitamin D-deficient state may ensue. The biological consequences of this phenomenon on target organs of vitamin D are not known. This study evaluates one of these target organs, the bone. Because renal failure is associated with bone disease, we studied six patients with nephrotic syndrome and normal renal function. The glomerular filtration rate was 113+/-2.1 (SE) ml/min; serum albumin, 2.3+/-27 g/dl; and proteinuria ranged between 3.5 and 14.7 g/24 h. Blood levels of 25-OH-D, total and ionized calcium and carboxy-terminal fragment of immunoreactive parathyroid hormone were measured, and morphometric analysis of bone histology was made in iliac crest biopsies obtained after double tetracycline labeling. Blood 25-OH-D was low in all patients (3.2-5.1 ng/ml; normal, 21.8+/-2.3 ng/ml). Blood levels of both total (8.1+/-0.12 mg/dl) and ionized (3.8+/-0.21 mg/dl) calcium were lower than normal and three patients had true hypocalcemia. Blood immuno-reactive parathyroid hormone levels were elevated in all. Volumetric density of osteoid was significantly increased in three out of six patients and the fraction of mineralizing osteoid seams was decreased in all. Evidence for an increase in active lacunae (bone-osteoclast interface) occurred in three out of six patients and in inactive (Howship's lacunae) bone resorption in six out of six. The data indicate that the loss of 25-OH-D in urine of patients with nephrotic syndrome and normal renal function may result in a decrease of blood levels of ionized calcium, secondary hyperparathyroidism and enhanced bone resorption. In addition, the vitamin D-deficient state causes osteomalacia as evidenced by defective mineralization and increased osteoid volume.", "contents": "Osteomalacia and hyperparathyroid bone disease in patients with nephrotic syndrome. Patients with nephrotic syndrome have low blood levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) most probably because of losses in urine, and a vitamin D-deficient state may ensue. The biological consequences of this phenomenon on target organs of vitamin D are not known. This study evaluates one of these target organs, the bone. Because renal failure is associated with bone disease, we studied six patients with nephrotic syndrome and normal renal function. The glomerular filtration rate was 113+/-2.1 (SE) ml/min; serum albumin, 2.3+/-27 g/dl; and proteinuria ranged between 3.5 and 14.7 g/24 h. Blood levels of 25-OH-D, total and ionized calcium and carboxy-terminal fragment of immunoreactive parathyroid hormone were measured, and morphometric analysis of bone histology was made in iliac crest biopsies obtained after double tetracycline labeling. Blood 25-OH-D was low in all patients (3.2-5.1 ng/ml; normal, 21.8+/-2.3 ng/ml). Blood levels of both total (8.1+/-0.12 mg/dl) and ionized (3.8+/-0.21 mg/dl) calcium were lower than normal and three patients had true hypocalcemia. Blood immuno-reactive parathyroid hormone levels were elevated in all. Volumetric density of osteoid was significantly increased in three out of six patients and the fraction of mineralizing osteoid seams was decreased in all. Evidence for an increase in active lacunae (bone-osteoclast interface) occurred in three out of six patients and in inactive (Howship's lacunae) bone resorption in six out of six. The data indicate that the loss of 25-OH-D in urine of patients with nephrotic syndrome and normal renal function may result in a decrease of blood levels of ionized calcium, secondary hyperparathyroidism and enhanced bone resorption. In addition, the vitamin D-deficient state causes osteomalacia as evidenced by defective mineralization and increased osteoid volume.", "PMID": 429568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13", "title": "Resting skeletal muscle membrane potential as an index of uremic toxicity. A proposed new method to assess adequacy of hemodialysis.", "content": "Electrochemical disturbances of skeletal muscle cells in untreated uremia are characterized by an increase in the intracellular sodium and chloride content, a decrease in intracellular potassium, and a low resting membrane potential. In this study, we have reexamined the foregoing and, in addition, have examined the effects of hemodialysis. Three groups of patients were studied. In the first group of 22 uncomplicated uremic patients, whose creatinine clearance (Ccr) ranged from 2 to 12 cm(3)/min per 1.73 m(2), resting transmembrane potential difference (Em) of skeletal muscle cells was measured. In each of the nine patients whose Ccr ranged between 6.3 and 12 cm(3)/min, the Em was normal (i.e., -90.8+/-0.9 mV, mean+/-SEM). However, as Ccr dropped below 6.3 cm/min, the Em became progressively reduced and assumed a linear relationship with the Ccr. In the second study, nine individuals with end-stage renal disease, whose mean Ccr was 4.3 cm(3)/min, underwent measurement of Em and intracellular electrolyte concentration before and after 7 wk of hemodialysis. Before dialysis, the Em was -78.5+/-2.1 mV, intracellular sodium and chloride were elevated, and the intracellular potassium was reduced. After 7 wk of hemodialysis the Em rose to -87.8+/-1.3 mV, and the intracellular sodium, chloride, and potassium became normal. In the third study, seven patients who were stable on 6-h thrice-weekly dialysis were studied before and after reduction of dialysis to 6 h twice weekly. In those individuals whose Em remained normal after 6 wk, dialysis time was reduced further. On thrice-weekly dialysis the Em was -91.2+/-1.0 mV. With reduced dialysis, the Em fell to -80.1+/-0.8 mV (P < 0.001). In each case, the Em became abnormal before significant signs or symptoms of uremia were noted. These findings demonstrate that end-stage renal disease is associated with serious electrochemical changes in the muscle cell which are reversed by hemodialysis and recur when dialysis time is reduced. Thus, serial observations of muscle Em may be a potentially powerful tool to assess adequacy of dialysis therapy.", "contents": "Resting skeletal muscle membrane potential as an index of uremic toxicity. A proposed new method to assess adequacy of hemodialysis. Electrochemical disturbances of skeletal muscle cells in untreated uremia are characterized by an increase in the intracellular sodium and chloride content, a decrease in intracellular potassium, and a low resting membrane potential. In this study, we have reexamined the foregoing and, in addition, have examined the effects of hemodialysis. Three groups of patients were studied. In the first group of 22 uncomplicated uremic patients, whose creatinine clearance (Ccr) ranged from 2 to 12 cm(3)/min per 1.73 m(2), resting transmembrane potential difference (Em) of skeletal muscle cells was measured. In each of the nine patients whose Ccr ranged between 6.3 and 12 cm(3)/min, the Em was normal (i.e., -90.8+/-0.9 mV, mean+/-SEM). However, as Ccr dropped below 6.3 cm/min, the Em became progressively reduced and assumed a linear relationship with the Ccr. In the second study, nine individuals with end-stage renal disease, whose mean Ccr was 4.3 cm(3)/min, underwent measurement of Em and intracellular electrolyte concentration before and after 7 wk of hemodialysis. Before dialysis, the Em was -78.5+/-2.1 mV, intracellular sodium and chloride were elevated, and the intracellular potassium was reduced. After 7 wk of hemodialysis the Em rose to -87.8+/-1.3 mV, and the intracellular sodium, chloride, and potassium became normal. In the third study, seven patients who were stable on 6-h thrice-weekly dialysis were studied before and after reduction of dialysis to 6 h twice weekly. In those individuals whose Em remained normal after 6 wk, dialysis time was reduced further. On thrice-weekly dialysis the Em was -91.2+/-1.0 mV. With reduced dialysis, the Em fell to -80.1+/-0.8 mV (P < 0.001). In each case, the Em became abnormal before significant signs or symptoms of uremia were noted. These findings demonstrate that end-stage renal disease is associated with serious electrochemical changes in the muscle cell which are reversed by hemodialysis and recur when dialysis time is reduced. Thus, serial observations of muscle Em may be a potentially powerful tool to assess adequacy of dialysis therapy.", "PMID": 429569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_14", "title": "Stimulation by triiodothyronine of the in vitro uptake of sugars by rat thymocytes.", "content": "Studies were conducted to ascertain the in vitro effect of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T(3)) on the accumulation of the glucose analogue, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), by thymocytes freshly isolated from weanling rats. At a concentration of 1 muM, T(3) stimulated the 15-min uptake of (3)H-2-DG after cells had been exposed to T(3) for only 30 min. Significant stimulation of 2-DG accumulation was produced by 1 nM T(3), with increasing stimulation at doses ranging up to 10 muM. T(3) did not alter the fraction of accumulated 2-DG that was phosphorylated, and kinetic studies indicated that its effect was associated with a significant increase in the apparent V(max) of 2-DG accumulation, but not the apparent K(m). T(3) also enhanced the accumulation by thymocytes of the nonmetabolized glucose analogue, 3-O-methylglucose (3-O-MG), an effect that was evidently the result of an increase in 3-O-MG transport into the cell, because it was seen in cells incubated with (3)H-3-O-MG for only 30 s. The proportionate increase in 2-DG accumulation produced by T(3) was not altered by preincubating cells with concentrations of puromycin or cycloheximide sufficient to reduce [(3)H]-leucine incorporation by 95%, and T(3) over a period of >2 h had no effect on [(3)H]leucine incorporation itself. These results indicate that T(3) stimulates the uptake of sugars in rat thymocytes in vitro by an effect on their inward transport. The promptness of the effect and its failure to be inhibited during profound inhibition of protein synthesis further indicate that this effect of T(3) is not mediated through a nuclear-dependent mechanism. Rather, the properties of this response, and of the increases in amino acid and 2-DG accumulation produced by T(3) in other tissue preparations, strongly suggest that these effects of T(3) are mediated at the level of cell membrane.", "contents": "Stimulation by triiodothyronine of the in vitro uptake of sugars by rat thymocytes. Studies were conducted to ascertain the in vitro effect of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T(3)) on the accumulation of the glucose analogue, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), by thymocytes freshly isolated from weanling rats. At a concentration of 1 muM, T(3) stimulated the 15-min uptake of (3)H-2-DG after cells had been exposed to T(3) for only 30 min. Significant stimulation of 2-DG accumulation was produced by 1 nM T(3), with increasing stimulation at doses ranging up to 10 muM. T(3) did not alter the fraction of accumulated 2-DG that was phosphorylated, and kinetic studies indicated that its effect was associated with a significant increase in the apparent V(max) of 2-DG accumulation, but not the apparent K(m). T(3) also enhanced the accumulation by thymocytes of the nonmetabolized glucose analogue, 3-O-methylglucose (3-O-MG), an effect that was evidently the result of an increase in 3-O-MG transport into the cell, because it was seen in cells incubated with (3)H-3-O-MG for only 30 s. The proportionate increase in 2-DG accumulation produced by T(3) was not altered by preincubating cells with concentrations of puromycin or cycloheximide sufficient to reduce [(3)H]-leucine incorporation by 95%, and T(3) over a period of >2 h had no effect on [(3)H]leucine incorporation itself. These results indicate that T(3) stimulates the uptake of sugars in rat thymocytes in vitro by an effect on their inward transport. The promptness of the effect and its failure to be inhibited during profound inhibition of protein synthesis further indicate that this effect of T(3) is not mediated through a nuclear-dependent mechanism. Rather, the properties of this response, and of the increases in amino acid and 2-DG accumulation produced by T(3) in other tissue preparations, strongly suggest that these effects of T(3) are mediated at the level of cell membrane.", "PMID": 429570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_15", "title": "The role of sulfhydryl groups on the impaired hepatic 3',3,5-triiodothyronine generation from thyroxine in the hypothyroid, starved, fetal, and neonatal rodent.", "content": "The role of nonprotein sulfhydryl groups (NPSH) in the decreased in vitro hepatic 3',3,5-triiodothyronine (T(3)) generation from thyroxine (T(4)) in the starved, hypothyroid, fetal and 1- to 4-d-old neonatal rat and dwarf mouse was assessed. NPSH were measured in fresh 25% liver homogenates prepared in 0.1 M PO(4)/10 mM EDTA buffer. As compared with values in adult male rats, NPSH concentration was decreased in the 2-d-starved (1.1+/-0.04 (mean+/-SE) vs. 2.2+/-0.15 mmol/250 g wet liver weight, P < 0.001), fetal (1.0+/-0.04 vs. 3.2+/-0.08, P < 0.001), 1-d-old neonatal (1.1+/-0.03 vs. 2.1+/-0.04, P < 0.001), and hypothyroid (thyroidectomized 60 d) (1.4+/-0.06 vs. 2.2+/-0.15 P < 0.001) rat. NPSH were also decreased in the hypothyroid, hypopituitary dwarf mouse as compared with values in their normal litter mates (1.3+/-0.03 vs. 2.0+/-0.2, P < 0.01). Chronic administration of T(3) (0.5 mug/100 g body wt per d) markedly increased hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) in the thyroidectomized rat and in the dwarf mouse to values similar to those observed in the normal rodent without affecting NPSH concentration. In contrast, T(3) administration to the starved rat did not alter either hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) or NPSH. Reduced glutathione concentration was also markedly decreased in the starved rat (fed; 1.05+/-0.075 mmol/250 g wet tissue vs. starved 0.38+/-0.02, P < 0.001). Dithiothreitol (DTT), a thiol reducing agent, increased hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) in the normal adult male rat by 45+/-5% in six experiments. When compared to DTT-stimulated control homogenates, the addition of DTT completely restored hepatic T(3) generation in starved rats, partially restored T(3) generation in 1- and 4-d-old neonates, but had little or no effect in the fetal and hypothyroid rat and dwarf mouse. Liver homogenates stored for 6 mo at -20 degrees C lost their capacity to generate T(3) from T(4). NPSH concentrations in the frozen homogenates decreased progressively with increasing storage and were absent by 6 mo. 5'-Deiodinase activity correlated with NPSH concentration in the stored homogenates (r = 0.95, P < 0.005). Addition of DTT partially restored hepatic T(3) generation in the frozen homogenate. It is concluded that NPSH are important for the action of the liver 5'-deiodinase. The decreased hepatic T(3) generation in the starved rat is associated with decreased NPSH but not with a decrease in the absolute quantity of 5'-deiodinase because provision of sulfhydryl groups restored hepatic T(3) generation to normal. In contrast, the decreased hepatic T(3) generation in the adult hypothyroid rodent and in the fetal rat is probably due to a decrease in the enzyme concentration per se. In the 1- and 4-d neonatal rat, the decrease in hepatic T(3) generation is secondary to a decrease in NPSH and the deiodinating enzyme.", "contents": "The role of sulfhydryl groups on the impaired hepatic 3',3,5-triiodothyronine generation from thyroxine in the hypothyroid, starved, fetal, and neonatal rodent. The role of nonprotein sulfhydryl groups (NPSH) in the decreased in vitro hepatic 3',3,5-triiodothyronine (T(3)) generation from thyroxine (T(4)) in the starved, hypothyroid, fetal and 1- to 4-d-old neonatal rat and dwarf mouse was assessed. NPSH were measured in fresh 25% liver homogenates prepared in 0.1 M PO(4)/10 mM EDTA buffer. As compared with values in adult male rats, NPSH concentration was decreased in the 2-d-starved (1.1+/-0.04 (mean+/-SE) vs. 2.2+/-0.15 mmol/250 g wet liver weight, P < 0.001), fetal (1.0+/-0.04 vs. 3.2+/-0.08, P < 0.001), 1-d-old neonatal (1.1+/-0.03 vs. 2.1+/-0.04, P < 0.001), and hypothyroid (thyroidectomized 60 d) (1.4+/-0.06 vs. 2.2+/-0.15 P < 0.001) rat. NPSH were also decreased in the hypothyroid, hypopituitary dwarf mouse as compared with values in their normal litter mates (1.3+/-0.03 vs. 2.0+/-0.2, P < 0.01). Chronic administration of T(3) (0.5 mug/100 g body wt per d) markedly increased hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) in the thyroidectomized rat and in the dwarf mouse to values similar to those observed in the normal rodent without affecting NPSH concentration. In contrast, T(3) administration to the starved rat did not alter either hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) or NPSH. Reduced glutathione concentration was also markedly decreased in the starved rat (fed; 1.05+/-0.075 mmol/250 g wet tissue vs. starved 0.38+/-0.02, P < 0.001). Dithiothreitol (DTT), a thiol reducing agent, increased hepatic T(3) generation from T(4) in the normal adult male rat by 45+/-5% in six experiments. When compared to DTT-stimulated control homogenates, the addition of DTT completely restored hepatic T(3) generation in starved rats, partially restored T(3) generation in 1- and 4-d-old neonates, but had little or no effect in the fetal and hypothyroid rat and dwarf mouse. Liver homogenates stored for 6 mo at -20 degrees C lost their capacity to generate T(3) from T(4). NPSH concentrations in the frozen homogenates decreased progressively with increasing storage and were absent by 6 mo. 5'-Deiodinase activity correlated with NPSH concentration in the stored homogenates (r = 0.95, P < 0.005). Addition of DTT partially restored hepatic T(3) generation in the frozen homogenate. It is concluded that NPSH are important for the action of the liver 5'-deiodinase. The decreased hepatic T(3) generation in the starved rat is associated with decreased NPSH but not with a decrease in the absolute quantity of 5'-deiodinase because provision of sulfhydryl groups restored hepatic T(3) generation to normal. In contrast, the decreased hepatic T(3) generation in the adult hypothyroid rodent and in the fetal rat is probably due to a decrease in the enzyme concentration per se. In the 1- and 4-d neonatal rat, the decrease in hepatic T(3) generation is secondary to a decrease in NPSH and the deiodinating enzyme.", "PMID": 429571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_16", "title": "Identical biological effects of pancreatic glucagon and a purified moiety of canine gastric immunoreactive glucagon.", "content": "Because in the dog, the gastric fundus contains the largest amount of glucagon immunoreactivity (IRG), the IRG of mucosal scrapes of 105 canine stomachs was extracted by acid-ethanol and then precipitated by ether-ethanol. The IRG recovered was measured by antisera 30K, specific for glucagon and K-4023, which cross-reacts with glucagon-like immunoreactivity. Extracts of mucosa of stomach fundus were further purified by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-30 in 3M acetic acid. One pooled fraction corresponding to marker pancreatic glucagon in its elution volume was then gel-filtered on Bio-Gel P-30 in 0.05 M NH(4)HCO(3) and yielded one IRG peak, which, however, showed three immunoreactive components on polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis in urea. In addition, antiserum K-4023 reacted more strongly with that peak than antiserum 30K indicating the presence of glucagon-like immunoreactivity in this fraction. Subsequent ion-exchange column chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex A-25 and then CM-Bio-Gel A allowed purification to a single protein band on disc gel electrophoresis reacting equally to both antisera 30K and K-4023. 1.5 mug of purified gastric glucagon was obtained and its biological effects were compared to those of pancreatic glucagon in isolated rat hepatocytes. When immuno-equivalent amounts (300-2,500 pg/ml) of either type of glucagon were used, the same biological responses with respect to glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis as well as urea, lactate, and pyruvate production were observed. Liver cyclic AMP was also raised to the same extent by either one of these hormones. We conclude that this moiety of gastric IRG is apparently identical to pancreatic glucagon because (a) their molecular weights, elution properties in ion exchange chromatography, and their electrophoretic mobility are indistinguishable and (b) both hormones elicited identical biological effects in isolated rat hepatocytes.", "contents": "Identical biological effects of pancreatic glucagon and a purified moiety of canine gastric immunoreactive glucagon. Because in the dog, the gastric fundus contains the largest amount of glucagon immunoreactivity (IRG), the IRG of mucosal scrapes of 105 canine stomachs was extracted by acid-ethanol and then precipitated by ether-ethanol. The IRG recovered was measured by antisera 30K, specific for glucagon and K-4023, which cross-reacts with glucagon-like immunoreactivity. Extracts of mucosa of stomach fundus were further purified by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-30 in 3M acetic acid. One pooled fraction corresponding to marker pancreatic glucagon in its elution volume was then gel-filtered on Bio-Gel P-30 in 0.05 M NH(4)HCO(3) and yielded one IRG peak, which, however, showed three immunoreactive components on polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis in urea. In addition, antiserum K-4023 reacted more strongly with that peak than antiserum 30K indicating the presence of glucagon-like immunoreactivity in this fraction. Subsequent ion-exchange column chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex A-25 and then CM-Bio-Gel A allowed purification to a single protein band on disc gel electrophoresis reacting equally to both antisera 30K and K-4023. 1.5 mug of purified gastric glucagon was obtained and its biological effects were compared to those of pancreatic glucagon in isolated rat hepatocytes. When immuno-equivalent amounts (300-2,500 pg/ml) of either type of glucagon were used, the same biological responses with respect to glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis as well as urea, lactate, and pyruvate production were observed. Liver cyclic AMP was also raised to the same extent by either one of these hormones. We conclude that this moiety of gastric IRG is apparently identical to pancreatic glucagon because (a) their molecular weights, elution properties in ion exchange chromatography, and their electrophoretic mobility are indistinguishable and (b) both hormones elicited identical biological effects in isolated rat hepatocytes.", "PMID": 429572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_17", "title": "Medical careers in pathology, 1977.", "content": "A survey has been made, mainly covering the second half of 1977, of career grade posts and senior training posts in pathology in the United Kingdom. The survey included all disciplines of pathology and all types of employment--National Health Service, medical school, and many others. The survey also examined the number of applicants for advertised posts and the number of posts left vacant. There were variations between disciplines and between regions; microbiology and Northern Ireland had most failures in filling posts. Overall about 3% of career grade posts, and 15% of training grade posts, were left unfilled.", "contents": "Medical careers in pathology, 1977. A survey has been made, mainly covering the second half of 1977, of career grade posts and senior training posts in pathology in the United Kingdom. The survey included all disciplines of pathology and all types of employment--National Health Service, medical school, and many others. The survey also examined the number of applicants for advertised posts and the number of posts left vacant. There were variations between disciplines and between regions; microbiology and Northern Ireland had most failures in filling posts. Overall about 3% of career grade posts, and 15% of training grade posts, were left unfilled.", "PMID": 429573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_18", "title": "Relationship of air temperature to various chemical, haematological, and haemostatic variables.", "content": "Results for biochemical and haematological variables have been correlated with data on atmospheric temperature in order to identify possible mechanisms through which low environmental temperature may increase mortality from myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular disease. With the exception of cholesterol, there were no associations in the case of several clinical chemistry variables, or of haemoglobin and related indices. With varying degrees of consistency among the sex and age groups studied, temperature was positively correlated with factor VII, antithrombin III, and cholesterol, and negatively correlated with fibrinolytic activity. The correlations were all low but may offer some clues to mechanisms whereby air temperature influences ischaemic heart and cerebrovascular disease mortality.", "contents": "Relationship of air temperature to various chemical, haematological, and haemostatic variables. Results for biochemical and haematological variables have been correlated with data on atmospheric temperature in order to identify possible mechanisms through which low environmental temperature may increase mortality from myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular disease. With the exception of cholesterol, there were no associations in the case of several clinical chemistry variables, or of haemoglobin and related indices. With varying degrees of consistency among the sex and age groups studied, temperature was positively correlated with factor VII, antithrombin III, and cholesterol, and negatively correlated with fibrinolytic activity. The correlations were all low but may offer some clues to mechanisms whereby air temperature influences ischaemic heart and cerebrovascular disease mortality.", "PMID": 429574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_19", "title": "Determination of antithrombin activity by an amidolytic and a clotting procedure.", "content": "Plasma antithrombin activity was measured using an amidolytic method (substrate Chromozym TH) and a clotting method. The mean antithrombin values found in 76 hospital outpatients were 9.4 micronmol/min/ml with the amidolytic procedure and 100.1% of antithrombin activity with the clotting procedure. The two methods correlate fairly well (r = 0.85, P less than 0.01) and show satisfactory reproducibility. Coefficients of variation of 5.9% and 8.8% were obtained respectively with the amidolytic and the clotting procedures. In the presence of very high levels of fibrinogen degradation products, falsely elevated antithrombin activity levels were observed with the clotting procedure but the amidolytic method is essentially unaffected. It is concluded that both methods are suitable for determining antithrombin activity but a well-standardised amidolytic procedure has advantages.", "contents": "Determination of antithrombin activity by an amidolytic and a clotting procedure. Plasma antithrombin activity was measured using an amidolytic method (substrate Chromozym TH) and a clotting method. The mean antithrombin values found in 76 hospital outpatients were 9.4 micronmol/min/ml with the amidolytic procedure and 100.1% of antithrombin activity with the clotting procedure. The two methods correlate fairly well (r = 0.85, P less than 0.01) and show satisfactory reproducibility. Coefficients of variation of 5.9% and 8.8% were obtained respectively with the amidolytic and the clotting procedures. In the presence of very high levels of fibrinogen degradation products, falsely elevated antithrombin activity levels were observed with the clotting procedure but the amidolytic method is essentially unaffected. It is concluded that both methods are suitable for determining antithrombin activity but a well-standardised amidolytic procedure has advantages.", "PMID": 429575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_20", "title": "Neutrophil cytochemistry in bacterial infection.", "content": "A new cytochemical technique, sensitive to altered lysosomal membrane permeability of blood neutrophils, has been evaluated as a screening test for bacterial infection. This technique, for the lysosomal enzymes acid phosphatase and chloroacetate esterase, was compared with the neutrophil alkaline phosphatase and nitroblue tetrazolium tests. The mean score for each method was significantly higher in infected patients than in normal controls. There was, however, considerable overlap of individual scores between infected patients and ill, but uninfected, patients. This overlap limits the diagnostic value of existing cytochemical screening methods.", "contents": "Neutrophil cytochemistry in bacterial infection. A new cytochemical technique, sensitive to altered lysosomal membrane permeability of blood neutrophils, has been evaluated as a screening test for bacterial infection. This technique, for the lysosomal enzymes acid phosphatase and chloroacetate esterase, was compared with the neutrophil alkaline phosphatase and nitroblue tetrazolium tests. The mean score for each method was significantly higher in infected patients than in normal controls. There was, however, considerable overlap of individual scores between infected patients and ill, but uninfected, patients. This overlap limits the diagnostic value of existing cytochemical screening methods.", "PMID": 429576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_21", "title": "Fatal anaphylaxis in systemic mastocytosis.", "content": "A 42-year-old woman died after an episode of anaphylaxis associated with a raised serum histamine level. A diagnosis of systemic mastocytosis was established, with lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly, not associated with the usually pre-existing skin lesions of urticaria pigmentosa.", "contents": "Fatal anaphylaxis in systemic mastocytosis. A 42-year-old woman died after an episode of anaphylaxis associated with a raised serum histamine level. A diagnosis of systemic mastocytosis was established, with lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly, not associated with the usually pre-existing skin lesions of urticaria pigmentosa.", "PMID": 429577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_22", "title": "Cytohormonal patterns in mature and pre-term babies.", "content": "Comparison of cytohormonal patterns in full-term and pre-term babies of both sexes showed significant differences. At birth, irrespective of gestational age, both groups had high oestrogen levels, reflecting the maternal hormonal environment, but whereas the mature neonates were capable of metabolising and excreting the excess hormone within the first week of life, the pre-term infants took much longer to do so. It is thought that immaturity or impairment of liver function is at least partially responsible for this finding.", "contents": "Cytohormonal patterns in mature and pre-term babies. Comparison of cytohormonal patterns in full-term and pre-term babies of both sexes showed significant differences. At birth, irrespective of gestational age, both groups had high oestrogen levels, reflecting the maternal hormonal environment, but whereas the mature neonates were capable of metabolising and excreting the excess hormone within the first week of life, the pre-term infants took much longer to do so. It is thought that immaturity or impairment of liver function is at least partially responsible for this finding.", "PMID": 429578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_23", "title": "Yellow bodies in superficial and deep lymph nodes.", "content": "The prevalence of yellow bodies was studied in superficial and deep lymph nodes in material from 46 necropsies. They were found in 22.8% of the 359 lymph nodes collected, ranging from 35.6% of the mesenteric to 11.1% of mediastinal lymph nodes, and were significantly more prevalent in deep abdominal than in superficial groups. Sets of lymph nodes from individuals tended to show an 'all or none' variation in the proportion of nodes that contained yellow bodies, but the presence of the bodies was not significantly related to age, sex, or disease.", "contents": "Yellow bodies in superficial and deep lymph nodes. The prevalence of yellow bodies was studied in superficial and deep lymph nodes in material from 46 necropsies. They were found in 22.8% of the 359 lymph nodes collected, ranging from 35.6% of the mesenteric to 11.1% of mediastinal lymph nodes, and were significantly more prevalent in deep abdominal than in superficial groups. Sets of lymph nodes from individuals tended to show an 'all or none' variation in the proportion of nodes that contained yellow bodies, but the presence of the bodies was not significantly related to age, sex, or disease.", "PMID": 429579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_24", "title": "Interpretation of serum total calcium: effects of adjustment for albumin concentration on frequency of abnormal values and on detection of change in the individual.", "content": "Serum total calcium was measured in 1693 patients during a four-month period. We examined the effects of adjustment for albumin concentration on the interpretation of single measurements of serum total calcium and on the variation of series of measurements in individual patients. Markedly abnormal total calcium concentrations--2.75 mmol/l (11.0 mg/100 ml) or more, or 2.00 mmol/l (8.0 mg/100 ml) or less--were found in 115 patients, but only 24 (21%) remained markedly abnormal after adjustment for albumin. Three patients, two with malignant disease and one with primary hyperparathyroidism, had significant hypercalcaemia which was masked by hypoalbuminaemia. The serum total calcium measured on a subsequent occasion had changed 0.15 mmol/l (0.6 mg/100 ml) or more in 60 patients, but after adjustment for albumin this number was reduced to 27 (45%). The within-person standard deviation for serum total calcium was calculated in 26 patients with normal mean adjusted calcium concentrations who had had six or more sequential measurements. The mean standard deviation was 0.148 mmol/1 (0.59 mg/100 ml) and, after adjustment for albumin, this was reduced to 0.100 mmol/1 (0.40 mg/100 ml). We conclude that adjustment of serum total calcium concentration for albumin is essential to detect abnormal values and to assess changes in a value.", "contents": "Interpretation of serum total calcium: effects of adjustment for albumin concentration on frequency of abnormal values and on detection of change in the individual. Serum total calcium was measured in 1693 patients during a four-month period. We examined the effects of adjustment for albumin concentration on the interpretation of single measurements of serum total calcium and on the variation of series of measurements in individual patients. Markedly abnormal total calcium concentrations--2.75 mmol/l (11.0 mg/100 ml) or more, or 2.00 mmol/l (8.0 mg/100 ml) or less--were found in 115 patients, but only 24 (21%) remained markedly abnormal after adjustment for albumin. Three patients, two with malignant disease and one with primary hyperparathyroidism, had significant hypercalcaemia which was masked by hypoalbuminaemia. The serum total calcium measured on a subsequent occasion had changed 0.15 mmol/l (0.6 mg/100 ml) or more in 60 patients, but after adjustment for albumin this number was reduced to 27 (45%). The within-person standard deviation for serum total calcium was calculated in 26 patients with normal mean adjusted calcium concentrations who had had six or more sequential measurements. The mean standard deviation was 0.148 mmol/1 (0.59 mg/100 ml) and, after adjustment for albumin, this was reduced to 0.100 mmol/1 (0.40 mg/100 ml). We conclude that adjustment of serum total calcium concentration for albumin is essential to detect abnormal values and to assess changes in a value.", "PMID": 429580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_25", "title": "Distribution in clinical material and identification of Pseudomonas maltophilia.", "content": "During the 10-year period ending March 1976, 128 (8.5%) of 1506 strains of Gram-negative non-fermentative bacteria submitted to the National Collection of Type Cultures for computer-assisted identification have been strains of Pseudomonas maltophilia. These figures suggest that Ps. maltophilia is both a relatively common species in clinical material in the United Kingdom and also that many laboratories experience difficulty in identifying this species. We report the sources from which our strains were isolated and also characteristics of the species by which it may be recognised. The clinical significance of Ps maltophilia is discussed and also the susceptibility of this species to certain antimicrobial agents.", "contents": "Distribution in clinical material and identification of Pseudomonas maltophilia. During the 10-year period ending March 1976, 128 (8.5%) of 1506 strains of Gram-negative non-fermentative bacteria submitted to the National Collection of Type Cultures for computer-assisted identification have been strains of Pseudomonas maltophilia. These figures suggest that Ps. maltophilia is both a relatively common species in clinical material in the United Kingdom and also that many laboratories experience difficulty in identifying this species. We report the sources from which our strains were isolated and also characteristics of the species by which it may be recognised. The clinical significance of Ps maltophilia is discussed and also the susceptibility of this species to certain antimicrobial agents.", "PMID": 429581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_26", "title": "Flavobacterium odoratum: a species resistant to a wide range of antimicrobial agents.", "content": "During the period 1966-77, 24 strains of Flavobacterium odoratum were identified from among strains of Gram-negative, non-fermentative bacteria submitted to the National Collection of Type Cultures for computer-assisted identification. The F. odoratum strains showed resistance to therapeutic levels of gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, and carbenicillin as well as to several other antimicrobial agents generally useful in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative, non-fermentative bacteria. Two strains isolated from amputation stumps and another three strains isolated in significant numbers from urine specimens were possibly opportunist pathogens. The biochemical characteristics of the 24 strains, the proposed neotype strain of F. odoratum, and three strains representative of a group, referred to at the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta as group M-4f, were compared with those of biochemically similar species which may be isolated from clinical material.", "contents": "Flavobacterium odoratum: a species resistant to a wide range of antimicrobial agents. During the period 1966-77, 24 strains of Flavobacterium odoratum were identified from among strains of Gram-negative, non-fermentative bacteria submitted to the National Collection of Type Cultures for computer-assisted identification. The F. odoratum strains showed resistance to therapeutic levels of gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, and carbenicillin as well as to several other antimicrobial agents generally useful in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative, non-fermentative bacteria. Two strains isolated from amputation stumps and another three strains isolated in significant numbers from urine specimens were possibly opportunist pathogens. The biochemical characteristics of the 24 strains, the proposed neotype strain of F. odoratum, and three strains representative of a group, referred to at the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta as group M-4f, were compared with those of biochemically similar species which may be isolated from clinical material.", "PMID": 429582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_27", "title": "Unusual increases in serum lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-5 activity caused by severe congestive cardiac failure: two case reports.", "content": "Two cases of congestive cardiac failure had unusually high activities of serum lactate dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-5. Values for isoenzyme-5 exceeding 87% of the total serum activity, and increases of 228- to 380-fold of the upper reference limit, are very uncommon.", "contents": "Unusual increases in serum lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-5 activity caused by severe congestive cardiac failure: two case reports. Two cases of congestive cardiac failure had unusually high activities of serum lactate dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-5. Values for isoenzyme-5 exceeding 87% of the total serum activity, and increases of 228- to 380-fold of the upper reference limit, are very uncommon.", "PMID": 429583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_28", "title": "A histological study of the effect of chronic gastritis on gastrin cell distribution in the human stomach.", "content": "To determine the effect of varying degrees of gastritis on the distribution of immuno-reactive gastrin cells 38 partial gastrectomy specimens have been studied. Routinely stained histological sections of mucosa were compared with serial and adjacent sections stained by specific immunohistochemistry using peroxidase and fluorescent techniques. While chronic superficial gastritis had no obvious effect, mild atrophic gastritis was associated with an uneven distribution of gastrin cells which became more marked with increasing severity of gastritis. In the region of intestinal metaplasia gastrin cells were almost totally absent. Small numbers of gastrin cells were found within areas of pseudopyloric metaplasia in the fundus, a region where those cells are not normally seen. Similarly, gastrin cells were detected within regenerative gastric polypi in both antrum and fundus.", "contents": "A histological study of the effect of chronic gastritis on gastrin cell distribution in the human stomach. To determine the effect of varying degrees of gastritis on the distribution of immuno-reactive gastrin cells 38 partial gastrectomy specimens have been studied. Routinely stained histological sections of mucosa were compared with serial and adjacent sections stained by specific immunohistochemistry using peroxidase and fluorescent techniques. While chronic superficial gastritis had no obvious effect, mild atrophic gastritis was associated with an uneven distribution of gastrin cells which became more marked with increasing severity of gastritis. In the region of intestinal metaplasia gastrin cells were almost totally absent. Small numbers of gastrin cells were found within areas of pseudopyloric metaplasia in the fundus, a region where those cells are not normally seen. Similarly, gastrin cells were detected within regenerative gastric polypi in both antrum and fundus.", "PMID": 429586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_29", "title": "Failure to demonstrate specificity of the morphological and histochemical changes in mucosa adjacent to colonic carcinoma (transitional mucosa).", "content": "Characteristic morphological and histochemical changes in mucosa adjacent to colorectal adenocarcinomas have been described. It has been suggested that this type of mucosa, labelled transitional mucosa (TM) because of its specific association with colorectal adenocarcinoma, is indicative of a premalignant change. In an investigation of mucosa adjacent to anal tumours extending into the rectum and mucosa from solitary ulcer syndrome and colostomies the mucosal alterations described in TM could be demonstrated. Thus TM is not specifically related to colorectal adenocarcinoma and probably arises as a secondary phenomenon. The claim that TM represents a premalignant change cannot be substantiated.", "contents": "Failure to demonstrate specificity of the morphological and histochemical changes in mucosa adjacent to colonic carcinoma (transitional mucosa). Characteristic morphological and histochemical changes in mucosa adjacent to colorectal adenocarcinomas have been described. It has been suggested that this type of mucosa, labelled transitional mucosa (TM) because of its specific association with colorectal adenocarcinoma, is indicative of a premalignant change. In an investigation of mucosa adjacent to anal tumours extending into the rectum and mucosa from solitary ulcer syndrome and colostomies the mucosal alterations described in TM could be demonstrated. Thus TM is not specifically related to colorectal adenocarcinoma and probably arises as a secondary phenomenon. The claim that TM represents a premalignant change cannot be substantiated.", "PMID": 429587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_30", "title": "Gas-liquid chromatographic measurement of lignocaine in small samples of canine myocardium after enzymatic digestion.", "content": "A method is described whereby lignocaine can be measured in small samples of canine myocardium. A proteolytic enzyme is used to digest the tissue, and the drug, together with an internal standard, is subsequently extracted into an organic solvent and measured by gas-liquid chromatography. The method is reproducible using tissue samples as small as 50 mg and appears to be suitable for the measurement of a number of drugs in small samples of tissue.", "contents": "Gas-liquid chromatographic measurement of lignocaine in small samples of canine myocardium after enzymatic digestion. A method is described whereby lignocaine can be measured in small samples of canine myocardium. A proteolytic enzyme is used to digest the tissue, and the drug, together with an internal standard, is subsequently extracted into an organic solvent and measured by gas-liquid chromatography. The method is reproducible using tissue samples as small as 50 mg and appears to be suitable for the measurement of a number of drugs in small samples of tissue.", "PMID": 429588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_31", "title": "Central nuclear counts in muscle fibres before and during treatment in hypothyroid myopathy.", "content": "Serial percutaneous needle muscle biopsies of vastus lateralis were studied in 10 patients who had varying degrees of hypothyroid myopathy. The biopsies were taken before and during treatment with l-thyroxine. Before treatment the most severely clinically affected patients showed type II muscle fibre atrophy and loss, together with increased central nuclear counts preferentially affecting the type II muscle fibre. Both the type II muscle fibre atrophy and loss and the increased central nuclear counts tended to return towards normal values during treatment with l-thyroxine. The severity of myopathic symptoms before and during treatment correlated with the biochemical evidence of hypothyroidism, a type II fibre atrophy, and increased central nuclear counts. The severity of myopathic signs before and during treatment was correlated with both a type II fibre atrophy and loss and increased central nuclear counts. There was no evidence that the myopathic signs before and during treatment were related to the biochemical parameters of hypothyroidism, except the level of thyroid stimulating hormone. It is suggested that sequential studies of muscle fibre percentages, diameters, and central nuclear counts may provide an additional method of assessing the response to treatment in hypothyroid and possibly other types of myopathy. When increased central nuclear counts are confined to a specific muscle fibre type, this may suggest a hitherto unsuspected specificity of muscle fibre damage.", "contents": "Central nuclear counts in muscle fibres before and during treatment in hypothyroid myopathy. Serial percutaneous needle muscle biopsies of vastus lateralis were studied in 10 patients who had varying degrees of hypothyroid myopathy. The biopsies were taken before and during treatment with l-thyroxine. Before treatment the most severely clinically affected patients showed type II muscle fibre atrophy and loss, together with increased central nuclear counts preferentially affecting the type II muscle fibre. Both the type II muscle fibre atrophy and loss and the increased central nuclear counts tended to return towards normal values during treatment with l-thyroxine. The severity of myopathic symptoms before and during treatment correlated with the biochemical evidence of hypothyroidism, a type II fibre atrophy, and increased central nuclear counts. The severity of myopathic signs before and during treatment was correlated with both a type II fibre atrophy and loss and increased central nuclear counts. There was no evidence that the myopathic signs before and during treatment were related to the biochemical parameters of hypothyroidism, except the level of thyroid stimulating hormone. It is suggested that sequential studies of muscle fibre percentages, diameters, and central nuclear counts may provide an additional method of assessing the response to treatment in hypothyroid and possibly other types of myopathy. When increased central nuclear counts are confined to a specific muscle fibre type, this may suggest a hitherto unsuspected specificity of muscle fibre damage.", "PMID": 429589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_32", "title": "Hypercalcaemia due to hyperparathyroidism in a patient with chronic renal failure and renal carcinoma.", "content": "A 65-year-old woman with a history of a left heminephrectomy for renal carcinoma developed hypercalcaemia 11 years after the operation. The same kidney was found to contain a recurrent renal carcinoma. After the radical nephrectomy of the left kidney, hypercalcaemia remitted but reappeared 11 months later. The right kidney was small but functioned at a level of creatinine clearance of 10--15 ml/min. Metastatic work-up was negative, and secondary causes of hypercalcaemia were excluded. A neck exploration revealed a parathyroid adenoma. With parathyroid resection the serum calcium declined to normal, and the risk of hypercalcaemic nephropathy in the remaining kidney was precluded.", "contents": "Hypercalcaemia due to hyperparathyroidism in a patient with chronic renal failure and renal carcinoma. A 65-year-old woman with a history of a left heminephrectomy for renal carcinoma developed hypercalcaemia 11 years after the operation. The same kidney was found to contain a recurrent renal carcinoma. After the radical nephrectomy of the left kidney, hypercalcaemia remitted but reappeared 11 months later. The right kidney was small but functioned at a level of creatinine clearance of 10--15 ml/min. Metastatic work-up was negative, and secondary causes of hypercalcaemia were excluded. A neck exploration revealed a parathyroid adenoma. With parathyroid resection the serum calcium declined to normal, and the risk of hypercalcaemic nephropathy in the remaining kidney was precluded.", "PMID": 429590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_33", "title": "Plasma binding capacity for 25-hydroxy-vitamin D in the elderly.", "content": "Plasma 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25-OHD) concentrations and 25-OHD binding capacities were measured in 14 elderly patients and in 14 young controls. Both 25-OHD concentrations and 25-OHD binding capacities were reduced in the elderly. In neither group, however, was there a significant correlation between 25-OHD binding capacities and 25-OHD concentrations. Thus, although 25-OHD binding capacities are reduced in sick old people this does not account for the low 25-OHD concentrations often found in this group.", "contents": "Plasma binding capacity for 25-hydroxy-vitamin D in the elderly. Plasma 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25-OHD) concentrations and 25-OHD binding capacities were measured in 14 elderly patients and in 14 young controls. Both 25-OHD concentrations and 25-OHD binding capacities were reduced in the elderly. In neither group, however, was there a significant correlation between 25-OHD binding capacities and 25-OHD concentrations. Thus, although 25-OHD binding capacities are reduced in sick old people this does not account for the low 25-OHD concentrations often found in this group.", "PMID": 429591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_34", "title": "An evaluation of simultaneously administered free and intrinsic factor bound radioactive cyanocobalamin in the diagnosis of pernicious anaemia in the elderly.", "content": "The definitive diagnosis of pernicious anaemia (PA) in the elderly is by no means always straightforward, particularly when inappropriate medication has been introduced before the institution of specific investigatory procedures. A detailed haematological study was carried out on 301 patients aged 60-95 with a serum B(12) concentration at the laboratory's lower level of normal of 150 ng per litre (Euglena gracilis assay). The diagnosis of PA was based on strict predetermined haematological criteria. All patients were subsequently studied by the simultaneous oral administration of the dual isotopes (57)Co-labelled B(12) bound to intrinsic factor and free (58)Co-labelled B(12) (Dicopac test), and urine was collected over 24 hours after an intramuscular dose of 1 mg nonradioactive B(12) for estimation of the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio; 255 patients satisfied all criteria for final analysis. The Radiochemical Centre, Amersham suggests an upper limit of the normal range for the (57)Co/(58)Co ratio of 1.3 with a lower limit for PA of 2.0. We were unable to show a sharp borderline in the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio between those patients shown by other criteria to have PA and those who do not have PA; 34% of the 71 established patients had a ratio below 2.0. From our series a ratio borderline drawn at 1.4 gave only one false negative (1.4% of the PA group). Of the 175 non-PA cases, nine (5%) gave false positive results; four of these had (58)Co excretion levels high enough to make misdiagnosis unlikely. In a proportion of patients the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio was estimated at regular intervals for 36-hour periods. Maximum accuracy of isotope measurement on a single specimen was obtained 8-20 hours after isotope dosing. The Dicopac investigation is a useful simple screening test in the differential diagnosis of patients with a megaloblastic bone marrow and combined low serum B(12) and folate concentrations. When carried out by the standard technique, the degree of discrimination between normal and abnormal ratios is of limited diagnostic significance in one-third of patients.", "contents": "An evaluation of simultaneously administered free and intrinsic factor bound radioactive cyanocobalamin in the diagnosis of pernicious anaemia in the elderly. The definitive diagnosis of pernicious anaemia (PA) in the elderly is by no means always straightforward, particularly when inappropriate medication has been introduced before the institution of specific investigatory procedures. A detailed haematological study was carried out on 301 patients aged 60-95 with a serum B(12) concentration at the laboratory's lower level of normal of 150 ng per litre (Euglena gracilis assay). The diagnosis of PA was based on strict predetermined haematological criteria. All patients were subsequently studied by the simultaneous oral administration of the dual isotopes (57)Co-labelled B(12) bound to intrinsic factor and free (58)Co-labelled B(12) (Dicopac test), and urine was collected over 24 hours after an intramuscular dose of 1 mg nonradioactive B(12) for estimation of the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio; 255 patients satisfied all criteria for final analysis. The Radiochemical Centre, Amersham suggests an upper limit of the normal range for the (57)Co/(58)Co ratio of 1.3 with a lower limit for PA of 2.0. We were unable to show a sharp borderline in the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio between those patients shown by other criteria to have PA and those who do not have PA; 34% of the 71 established patients had a ratio below 2.0. From our series a ratio borderline drawn at 1.4 gave only one false negative (1.4% of the PA group). Of the 175 non-PA cases, nine (5%) gave false positive results; four of these had (58)Co excretion levels high enough to make misdiagnosis unlikely. In a proportion of patients the (57)Co/(58)Co B(12) ratio was estimated at regular intervals for 36-hour periods. Maximum accuracy of isotope measurement on a single specimen was obtained 8-20 hours after isotope dosing. The Dicopac investigation is a useful simple screening test in the differential diagnosis of patients with a megaloblastic bone marrow and combined low serum B(12) and folate concentrations. When carried out by the standard technique, the degree of discrimination between normal and abnormal ratios is of limited diagnostic significance in one-third of patients.", "PMID": 429592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_35", "title": "Quality control trials of prothrombin time: an assessment of the performance in serial studies.", "content": "A series of collaborative exercises on the one-stage prothrombin time test involving hospitals in Britain and overseas was performed between 1972 and 1977. The British Comparative Thromboplastin (BCT) and the lyophilised test plasmas were issued from the National (UK) Reference Laboratory for Anticoagulant Reagents and Control. Participants were asked to test the plasma samples with the BCT using the recommended technique. Variability of performance was assessed by the 'index of reliability' based on the plasma variance and error variance within each exercise. The results show that hospitals have attained higher precision in the later trials.", "contents": "Quality control trials of prothrombin time: an assessment of the performance in serial studies. A series of collaborative exercises on the one-stage prothrombin time test involving hospitals in Britain and overseas was performed between 1972 and 1977. The British Comparative Thromboplastin (BCT) and the lyophilised test plasmas were issued from the National (UK) Reference Laboratory for Anticoagulant Reagents and Control. Participants were asked to test the plasma samples with the BCT using the recommended technique. Variability of performance was assessed by the 'index of reliability' based on the plasma variance and error variance within each exercise. The results show that hospitals have attained higher precision in the later trials.", "PMID": 429593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_36", "title": "'On line' data handling in a routine haematology department.", "content": "The use of a ;stand alone' mini computer, on line, data acquisition system is described utilising a microprocessor as an adjunct to the main central processor to increase data transmission rates. Visual display units (VDU) provide on line flexibility of data input. The system acquires, on line, the Coulter S generated parameters together with the associated patient identification data and other requested tests. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, platelet count, and B12 and folate results are fed in at will via the VDUs, using rapid entry subroutines. Percentage differential white cell count results and the absolute leucocyte count are calculated by the microprocessor, on line input being facilitated by remote keyboards associated with the VDUs. Total editing of all requests and results is available on all ;current' (unfiled) reports via the VDUs, and this facility includes the entry of film appearances using plus symbols and predetermined comments available against a code number. This editing function is also used to enter all other results that can be made available on the computer-printed report form. The computer system also provides quality control data, immediate printout of Coulter S results outside given limits, cumulative filing for all routine and designated ;priority' results, and a daily alphabetical listing of all patients from whom specimens have been examined together with full blood count, ESR, and platelet results on specimens examined that day.", "contents": "'On line' data handling in a routine haematology department. The use of a ;stand alone' mini computer, on line, data acquisition system is described utilising a microprocessor as an adjunct to the main central processor to increase data transmission rates. Visual display units (VDU) provide on line flexibility of data input. The system acquires, on line, the Coulter S generated parameters together with the associated patient identification data and other requested tests. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, platelet count, and B12 and folate results are fed in at will via the VDUs, using rapid entry subroutines. Percentage differential white cell count results and the absolute leucocyte count are calculated by the microprocessor, on line input being facilitated by remote keyboards associated with the VDUs. Total editing of all requests and results is available on all ;current' (unfiled) reports via the VDUs, and this facility includes the entry of film appearances using plus symbols and predetermined comments available against a code number. This editing function is also used to enter all other results that can be made available on the computer-printed report form. The computer system also provides quality control data, immediate printout of Coulter S results outside given limits, cumulative filing for all routine and designated ;priority' results, and a daily alphabetical listing of all patients from whom specimens have been examined together with full blood count, ESR, and platelet results on specimens examined that day.", "PMID": 429594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_37", "title": "Eosinophilic leukaemia: morphological, cytochemical, and electron microscopic studies.", "content": "The eosinophils of a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia were studied with 13 different cytochemical methods using light and electron microscopy. Apart from the 'left shift' of the eosinophils in bone marrow and peripheral blood, the following morphological changes were noted: uncoordinated maturation of the nucleus and cytoplasm, changes in size of the specific granules, and hypogranulation to such an extent that some of the cells bore only very few granules. The cytochemical studies showed a strongly positive periodic acid Schiff reaction in the eosinophils, caused by a high content of glycogen, and a relatively strong positive acid-phosphatase reaction. These cells were also tested for aryl sulphatase and coenzyme Q. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of a high-content glycogen and a strong acid phosphatase response in the cells. Peroxidase reaction, detected in electron microscopy as well, enabled us to trace the maturation of the eosinophil cell line.", "contents": "Eosinophilic leukaemia: morphological, cytochemical, and electron microscopic studies. The eosinophils of a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia were studied with 13 different cytochemical methods using light and electron microscopy. Apart from the 'left shift' of the eosinophils in bone marrow and peripheral blood, the following morphological changes were noted: uncoordinated maturation of the nucleus and cytoplasm, changes in size of the specific granules, and hypogranulation to such an extent that some of the cells bore only very few granules. The cytochemical studies showed a strongly positive periodic acid Schiff reaction in the eosinophils, caused by a high content of glycogen, and a relatively strong positive acid-phosphatase reaction. These cells were also tested for aryl sulphatase and coenzyme Q. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of a high-content glycogen and a strong acid phosphatase response in the cells. Peroxidase reaction, detected in electron microscopy as well, enabled us to trace the maturation of the eosinophil cell line.", "PMID": 429595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_38", "title": "Evaluation of an indirect haemagglutination kit for the rapid serological diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections.", "content": "A recently introduced indirect haemagglutination kit for the detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibodies is compared with the standard method complement fixation. It is concluded that the kit provides a rapid, simple, and moderately sensitive means of detecting antibodies and, in some cases, enables these to be detected in the early, acute stage of infection.", "contents": "Evaluation of an indirect haemagglutination kit for the rapid serological diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections. A recently introduced indirect haemagglutination kit for the detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibodies is compared with the standard method complement fixation. It is concluded that the kit provides a rapid, simple, and moderately sensitive means of detecting antibodies and, in some cases, enables these to be detected in the early, acute stage of infection.", "PMID": 429596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_39", "title": "Urinary infection with coagulase-negative staphylococci in a teaching hospital.", "content": "In the eight-month period of study of all urine samples processed in our routine laboratory, only 85 out of 12 152 specimens yielded a bacteriologically significant growth of either Staphylococcus epidermidis or micrococci. Their growth on MacConkey medium was strictly comparable to that on cysteine lactose electrolyte-deficient (CLED) media. Most micrococci isolated were from urine samples of non hospitalised women patients, were resistant to a novobiocin (5 micrograms) disc, and belonged to Baird Parker type 3. Staph. epidermidis came mainly from postoperative surgical in-patients. Their antibiotic sensitivity patterns are variable whereas micrococci are fully sensitive to all urinary antibiotics. We agree that the use of a novobiocin (5 micrograms) disc for provisional identification of micrococci and Staph. epidermidis is simple and practical for a busy routine diagnostic laboratory. The use of more extensive systems to biotype these organisms in a routine laboratory is not practical and not relevant to patient management.", "contents": "Urinary infection with coagulase-negative staphylococci in a teaching hospital. In the eight-month period of study of all urine samples processed in our routine laboratory, only 85 out of 12 152 specimens yielded a bacteriologically significant growth of either Staphylococcus epidermidis or micrococci. Their growth on MacConkey medium was strictly comparable to that on cysteine lactose electrolyte-deficient (CLED) media. Most micrococci isolated were from urine samples of non hospitalised women patients, were resistant to a novobiocin (5 micrograms) disc, and belonged to Baird Parker type 3. Staph. epidermidis came mainly from postoperative surgical in-patients. Their antibiotic sensitivity patterns are variable whereas micrococci are fully sensitive to all urinary antibiotics. We agree that the use of a novobiocin (5 micrograms) disc for provisional identification of micrococci and Staph. epidermidis is simple and practical for a busy routine diagnostic laboratory. The use of more extensive systems to biotype these organisms in a routine laboratory is not practical and not relevant to patient management.", "PMID": 429597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_40", "title": "Comprehension of transitive and intransitive phrases by autistic, retarded, and normal children.", "content": "Autistic children were compared with retarded and normal control groups in a verbal comprehension task. Subjects were asked to select from four pictures the one that illustrated a two-word intransitive or three-word transitive phrase which was described verbally. Distractor pictures differed from the target picture by one, two, or all three features. Autistic children were poorer in performance than the control groups; however, the hierarchy of difficulty of discrimination was common to all three groups, with transitive phrases more difficult than intransitive phrases. Word type did not affect comprehension for the autistic children, although control children evidenced most difficulty with the verb or middle word. Results are interpreted as supporting the hypothesis that a severe and global language disorder is characteristic of autism.", "contents": "Comprehension of transitive and intransitive phrases by autistic, retarded, and normal children. Autistic children were compared with retarded and normal control groups in a verbal comprehension task. Subjects were asked to select from four pictures the one that illustrated a two-word intransitive or three-word transitive phrase which was described verbally. Distractor pictures differed from the target picture by one, two, or all three features. Autistic children were poorer in performance than the control groups; however, the hierarchy of difficulty of discrimination was common to all three groups, with transitive phrases more difficult than intransitive phrases. Word type did not affect comprehension for the autistic children, although control children evidenced most difficulty with the verb or middle word. Results are interpreted as supporting the hypothesis that a severe and global language disorder is characteristic of autism.", "PMID": 429602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_41", "title": "Spectral noise and vocal roughness relationships in adults with laryngeal pathology.", "content": "Twenty adult males, presenting laryngeal pathology, each produced five vowels and two sentences for tape recording. Individual recordings were then rated for roughness on a 5-point equal-appearing intervals scale. Each vowel production was also analyzed spectrographically. High, positive correlations (multiple r) were obtained between vowel spectral noise measures (dB SPL) and median roughness ratings for the vowels and sentences. The findings, similar to those previously reported for subjects without pathology, suggest that the relationships shown are independent of laryngeal health. Vowel spectral noise measures appear to provide a useful quantitative index of vocal roughness in vowels and connected speech.", "contents": "Spectral noise and vocal roughness relationships in adults with laryngeal pathology. Twenty adult males, presenting laryngeal pathology, each produced five vowels and two sentences for tape recording. Individual recordings were then rated for roughness on a 5-point equal-appearing intervals scale. Each vowel production was also analyzed spectrographically. High, positive correlations (multiple r) were obtained between vowel spectral noise measures (dB SPL) and median roughness ratings for the vowels and sentences. The findings, similar to those previously reported for subjects without pathology, suggest that the relationships shown are independent of laryngeal health. Vowel spectral noise measures appear to provide a useful quantitative index of vocal roughness in vowels and connected speech.", "PMID": 429603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_42", "title": "Phonetically mediated recall in the phonetically disordered child.", "content": "Children with phonology disorders frequently show reduced performance in short-term recall, inviting the assumption that impairment of memory may cause or help to cause the speech disorder. Ten children with marked phonology disorders were compared to 10 correctly speaking children on a test of short-term memory for sets of pictures whose names rhymed or did not rhyme. The phonologically disordered children performed significantly worse than those with correct speech and provided less evidence of phonetic mediation, a process commonly associated with enhanced levels of recall. Attention is drawn to the possibility that the disorder of phonology operated indirectly to reduce the efficiency of memory, though the question is complicated.", "contents": "Phonetically mediated recall in the phonetically disordered child. Children with phonology disorders frequently show reduced performance in short-term recall, inviting the assumption that impairment of memory may cause or help to cause the speech disorder. Ten children with marked phonology disorders were compared to 10 correctly speaking children on a test of short-term memory for sets of pictures whose names rhymed or did not rhyme. The phonologically disordered children performed significantly worse than those with correct speech and provided less evidence of phonetic mediation, a process commonly associated with enhanced levels of recall. Attention is drawn to the possibility that the disorder of phonology operated indirectly to reduce the efficiency of memory, though the question is complicated.", "PMID": 429604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_43", "title": "Language performance of stuttering and nonstuttering children.", "content": "This study investigated the syntactic and semantic language performance of typically dysfluent nonstuttering children, stuttering children, and highly dysfluent nonstuttering children. The three groups of children did not differ on Developmental Sentence Analysis scores. The stuttering and highly dysfluent nonstuttering children obtained significantly lower receptive vocabulary scores, made significantly more grammatical errors, and obtained significantly higher incorrect response scores on the semantic tasks.", "contents": "Language performance of stuttering and nonstuttering children. This study investigated the syntactic and semantic language performance of typically dysfluent nonstuttering children, stuttering children, and highly dysfluent nonstuttering children. The three groups of children did not differ on Developmental Sentence Analysis scores. The stuttering and highly dysfluent nonstuttering children obtained significantly lower receptive vocabulary scores, made significantly more grammatical errors, and obtained significantly higher incorrect response scores on the semantic tasks.", "PMID": 429605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_44", "title": "Research trends in the field of speech and hearing.", "content": "Topics of research in the field of speech and hearing were identified and compared over a 21-yr period (1954--1974). These topics were identidied by a key-word analysis of approximately 8200 titles consisting of articles in national and international journals, and of theses and dissertations presented in the state of Ohio. Results of this analysis have pinpointed certain research trends in the field of speech and hearing. Attention to certain topics has either declined, increased, or reached a peak during the 21-yr period, while interest in some topics has been consistently maintained throughout the years. The information reported provides a perspective from which to view contributions made by researchers in the field of speech and during the last two decades.", "contents": "Research trends in the field of speech and hearing. Topics of research in the field of speech and hearing were identified and compared over a 21-yr period (1954--1974). These topics were identidied by a key-word analysis of approximately 8200 titles consisting of articles in national and international journals, and of theses and dissertations presented in the state of Ohio. Results of this analysis have pinpointed certain research trends in the field of speech and hearing. Attention to certain topics has either declined, increased, or reached a peak during the 21-yr period, while interest in some topics has been consistently maintained throughout the years. The information reported provides a perspective from which to view contributions made by researchers in the field of speech and during the last two decades.", "PMID": 429606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_45", "title": "Treatment of dysarthria: a case report.", "content": "There is little information available to the speech clinician on management of dysarthria. This article presents the rationale, procedural outline, and results of an approach to communication training for one dysarthic subject in view of suggestions made by Darley et al. (1975).", "contents": "Treatment of dysarthria: a case report. There is little information available to the speech clinician on management of dysarthria. This article presents the rationale, procedural outline, and results of an approach to communication training for one dysarthic subject in view of suggestions made by Darley et al. (1975).", "PMID": 429607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_46", "title": "Children's auditory assembly of present progressive and past tense sentences.", "content": "Auditory assembly performance of kindergarten-age children was studied using either present progressive or past tense sentences. Thirty children enrolled in kindergarten repeated six past tense sentences and six present tense sentences. Sentence length was systematically increased from six to 11 words. All responses were tape recorded and analyzed according to total errors, error types, word position, word type, and semantic information. Results indicated significantly more omission errors than substitution, nouns and verbs were best retained, and error rates increased linearly through the nine-word sentences with a greater number of errors occurring in the 10- and 11-word sentences. In addition, there was no significant difference in ability to assemble past or present progressive tense sentences. Finally, in contrast to preschool children, kindergarten-age children retained key items (noun, verb, and object) during assembly performance of all 12 sentences.", "contents": "Children's auditory assembly of present progressive and past tense sentences. Auditory assembly performance of kindergarten-age children was studied using either present progressive or past tense sentences. Thirty children enrolled in kindergarten repeated six past tense sentences and six present tense sentences. Sentence length was systematically increased from six to 11 words. All responses were tape recorded and analyzed according to total errors, error types, word position, word type, and semantic information. Results indicated significantly more omission errors than substitution, nouns and verbs were best retained, and error rates increased linearly through the nine-word sentences with a greater number of errors occurring in the 10- and 11-word sentences. In addition, there was no significant difference in ability to assemble past or present progressive tense sentences. Finally, in contrast to preschool children, kindergarten-age children retained key items (noun, verb, and object) during assembly performance of all 12 sentences.", "PMID": 429608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_47", "title": "Judgments by children and adults regarding communication skills of esophageal speakers.", "content": "The intelligibility and acceptability of esophageal speech were judged by a group of children and a group of adults. Eight esophageal speakers demonstrating a range of speech proficiency and differing vocal characteristics were videotaped reading a children's story. These recordings were played to child and adult judges. Data were analyzed to provide information about within-group and between-group comparisons. Findings indicated that children achieved higher intelligibility scores and employed different values than did adults when listening to esophageal speech.", "contents": "Judgments by children and adults regarding communication skills of esophageal speakers. The intelligibility and acceptability of esophageal speech were judged by a group of children and a group of adults. Eight esophageal speakers demonstrating a range of speech proficiency and differing vocal characteristics were videotaped reading a children's story. These recordings were played to child and adult judges. Data were analyzed to provide information about within-group and between-group comparisons. Findings indicated that children achieved higher intelligibility scores and employed different values than did adults when listening to esophageal speech.", "PMID": 429609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_48", "title": "Axonal guidance during embryogenesis and regeneration in the spinal cord of the newt: the blueprint hypothesis of neuronal pathway patterning.", "content": "In our previous studies on studies on spinal cord regeneration in the adult lizard and the newt, we observed that the radial processes of the regenerating ependyma form between them channels which are subsequently invaded by growing neurites. In the present study we compare embryogenesis of the newt spinal cord with regeneration in the adult. Except for minor differences, we observed that the germinal neuroepithelium of the embryo and larva patterns the longitudinal neural tracts in a similar manner. With these facts in mind we propose the blueprint hypothesis which asserts that inherent in the primitive germinal neuroepithelium and its derivative primitive glia is the pattern of the primary neuronal pathways which is expressed in neurogenesis as formed channels or spaces between the processes of the epithelial cells, the surfaces of which contain trace pathways which the growing neurites follow toward their destination. The trace pathways are envisoned as mechanical-chemical itineraries which the neurities follow according to their individual affinities. The hypothesis is compared to extant theories and the limitations in central nervous regeneration of vertebrates is compared.", "contents": "Axonal guidance during embryogenesis and regeneration in the spinal cord of the newt: the blueprint hypothesis of neuronal pathway patterning. In our previous studies on studies on spinal cord regeneration in the adult lizard and the newt, we observed that the radial processes of the regenerating ependyma form between them channels which are subsequently invaded by growing neurites. In the present study we compare embryogenesis of the newt spinal cord with regeneration in the adult. Except for minor differences, we observed that the germinal neuroepithelium of the embryo and larva patterns the longitudinal neural tracts in a similar manner. With these facts in mind we propose the blueprint hypothesis which asserts that inherent in the primitive germinal neuroepithelium and its derivative primitive glia is the pattern of the primary neuronal pathways which is expressed in neurogenesis as formed channels or spaces between the processes of the epithelial cells, the surfaces of which contain trace pathways which the growing neurites follow toward their destination. The trace pathways are envisoned as mechanical-chemical itineraries which the neurities follow according to their individual affinities. The hypothesis is compared to extant theories and the limitations in central nervous regeneration of vertebrates is compared.", "PMID": 429610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_49", "title": "The distribution and size of ganglion cells in the regina of the pigmented rabbit: a quantitative analysis.", "content": "The distribution and soma diameters of retinal ganglion cells have been examined in whole mounted retinae of pigmented rabbits. Maps of the distribution of ganglion cells confirmed several features of earlier descriptions, but generally showed lower density values and yielded lower total ganglion cell counts (250,000-270,000). The maximum ganglion cell density encountered in each retina and its retinal location both varied between rabbits. As previously reported, the dominant feature of the rabbit's retina is a strongly developed visual streak (Hughes, '71) but some evidence of an area centralis-like specialization was found. This appears not as the area of peak gangion cell density, but as a concentration of large (greater than or equal to 20 micron in diameter) ganglion cells at the temporal end of the visual streak, 2-3 mm from the temporal margin of the retina. In one rabbit in which the optic tract was sectioned five months previously, the density distribution of large retinal ganglion cells in the retinae has been mapped. These maps indicate that the nasotemporal division for large ganglion cells in the rabbit retina is approximately centered on the area of their maximum density. It has previously been reported that in the cat the area centralis is characterized by an aggregation of smaller diameter ganglion cells of a particular functional type (Stone, '65, '78). It is possible that areas of retinal which subserve area centralis-like functions are represented not simply by localized increases in ganglion cell density, but by changes in the relative proportions of ganglion cell types, which are reflected in the changing relative densities of ganglion cell soma diameter groups.", "contents": "The distribution and size of ganglion cells in the regina of the pigmented rabbit: a quantitative analysis. The distribution and soma diameters of retinal ganglion cells have been examined in whole mounted retinae of pigmented rabbits. Maps of the distribution of ganglion cells confirmed several features of earlier descriptions, but generally showed lower density values and yielded lower total ganglion cell counts (250,000-270,000). The maximum ganglion cell density encountered in each retina and its retinal location both varied between rabbits. As previously reported, the dominant feature of the rabbit's retina is a strongly developed visual streak (Hughes, '71) but some evidence of an area centralis-like specialization was found. This appears not as the area of peak gangion cell density, but as a concentration of large (greater than or equal to 20 micron in diameter) ganglion cells at the temporal end of the visual streak, 2-3 mm from the temporal margin of the retina. In one rabbit in which the optic tract was sectioned five months previously, the density distribution of large retinal ganglion cells in the retinae has been mapped. These maps indicate that the nasotemporal division for large ganglion cells in the rabbit retina is approximately centered on the area of their maximum density. It has previously been reported that in the cat the area centralis is characterized by an aggregation of smaller diameter ganglion cells of a particular functional type (Stone, '65, '78). It is possible that areas of retinal which subserve area centralis-like functions are represented not simply by localized increases in ganglion cell density, but by changes in the relative proportions of ganglion cell types, which are reflected in the changing relative densities of ganglion cell soma diameter groups.", "PMID": 429611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_50", "title": "Preservation of binocularity after monocular deprivation in the striate cortex of kittens treated with 6-hydroxydopamine.", "content": "The results of single unit recordings from Area 17 of monocularly deprived kittens were compared with similar ones from littermates who had been monocularly lid-sutured for the same period of time, but who had in addition been given intraventricular injections of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) to deplete brain catecholamines. This visual cortices of all catecholamine-depleted kittens showed high proportions of binocular neurons, in contrast to the control group, a majority of whose visual cortical neurons were driven exclusively by the non-deprived eye. Preservation of binocularity in 6-OHDA-treated kittens was dose-related. Even after a 1 to 2-week period of lidsuture which reduced binocularity to 20% in controls, normal proportions of binocular neurons (greater than 75%) were preserved if the cumulative dose had been 10 mg 6-OHDA or more. The density of single neurons sampled from electrode tracks through the cortex of drug-treated kittens was high and did not differ significantly from controls. Neurons were isolated every 100 micron on the average. There was some indication that the drug's effect in preventing an ocular dominance shift disappears by six weeks following cessation of 6-OHDA treatment. This reversal of the physiological effects in cortex is preceded by recovery from the behavioral manifestations of 6-OHDA treatments. Binocularity was only slightly increased in a kitten who received large doses of 6-OHDA after a period of monocular deprivation. This observation, together with control recordings from normal kittens and adults treated with 6-OHDA, indicates that the direct effects of 6-OHDA on cortical neurons' response properties play a minor role in comparison to its effects in reducing the sensitivity of the cortex to monocular deprivation. The overwhelming majority of cortical neurons in 6-OHDA-treated kittens remained normal in receptive field properties after a period of monocular deprivation. These data support the hypothesis that catecholamines are required for the maintenance of visual cortical plasticity during the critical period.", "contents": "Preservation of binocularity after monocular deprivation in the striate cortex of kittens treated with 6-hydroxydopamine. The results of single unit recordings from Area 17 of monocularly deprived kittens were compared with similar ones from littermates who had been monocularly lid-sutured for the same period of time, but who had in addition been given intraventricular injections of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) to deplete brain catecholamines. This visual cortices of all catecholamine-depleted kittens showed high proportions of binocular neurons, in contrast to the control group, a majority of whose visual cortical neurons were driven exclusively by the non-deprived eye. Preservation of binocularity in 6-OHDA-treated kittens was dose-related. Even after a 1 to 2-week period of lidsuture which reduced binocularity to 20% in controls, normal proportions of binocular neurons (greater than 75%) were preserved if the cumulative dose had been 10 mg 6-OHDA or more. The density of single neurons sampled from electrode tracks through the cortex of drug-treated kittens was high and did not differ significantly from controls. Neurons were isolated every 100 micron on the average. There was some indication that the drug's effect in preventing an ocular dominance shift disappears by six weeks following cessation of 6-OHDA treatment. This reversal of the physiological effects in cortex is preceded by recovery from the behavioral manifestations of 6-OHDA treatments. Binocularity was only slightly increased in a kitten who received large doses of 6-OHDA after a period of monocular deprivation. This observation, together with control recordings from normal kittens and adults treated with 6-OHDA, indicates that the direct effects of 6-OHDA on cortical neurons' response properties play a minor role in comparison to its effects in reducing the sensitivity of the cortex to monocular deprivation. The overwhelming majority of cortical neurons in 6-OHDA-treated kittens remained normal in receptive field properties after a period of monocular deprivation. These data support the hypothesis that catecholamines are required for the maintenance of visual cortical plasticity during the critical period.", "PMID": 429612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_51", "title": "Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of unilateral optic tract section in ordinary and Siamese cats.", "content": "In ordinary cats, section of one optic tract produced a complete contralateral hemianopsia in both eyes. Single-unit recordings showed a normal representation of the contralateral nasal retina and ipsilateral temporal retina in the SC on the side of the intact optic tract. In addition, in the rostral portion of this SC there was a representation of a small portion of the contralateral temporal retina. This portion was apposed to the vertical meridian and its width was at most 6 degrees. In the anterior half of the SC on the side of the optic tract section, despite the interruption of any direct optic input, there was an extensive representation of the ipsilateral nasal retina and the contralateral temporal retina. This indirect visual input to the SC ipsilateral to the optic tract section was absent in a cat with a section of the forebrain commissures. In Boston Siamese cats, section of one optic tract led to a virtually complete blindness in the eye contralateral to the section, whereas the other eye retained a full visual field, although the responsiveness of the temporal retina beyond 20 degrees from the vertical meridian was reduced. Similarly, the nasal hemiretina and most of the temporal hemiretina on the side of the section were represented in the opposite SC, whereas stimulation of the eye contralateral to the section could not drive SC units. There was some evidence that the visual field of the eye on the side of the section could at least in part be represented in the SC on the same side. The findings indicate that the crossed projections from temporal hemiretina in the ordinary cat, and the uncrossed projections from temporal hemiretina in the Siamese cat are insufficient by themselves to sustain visual orientation and to drive SC neurons. Each half of the visual field in the ordinary cat, and the field of each eye in the Siamese cat, can be represented in the ipsilateral SC via across-the-midline, indirect connections.", "contents": "Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of unilateral optic tract section in ordinary and Siamese cats. In ordinary cats, section of one optic tract produced a complete contralateral hemianopsia in both eyes. Single-unit recordings showed a normal representation of the contralateral nasal retina and ipsilateral temporal retina in the SC on the side of the intact optic tract. In addition, in the rostral portion of this SC there was a representation of a small portion of the contralateral temporal retina. This portion was apposed to the vertical meridian and its width was at most 6 degrees. In the anterior half of the SC on the side of the optic tract section, despite the interruption of any direct optic input, there was an extensive representation of the ipsilateral nasal retina and the contralateral temporal retina. This indirect visual input to the SC ipsilateral to the optic tract section was absent in a cat with a section of the forebrain commissures. In Boston Siamese cats, section of one optic tract led to a virtually complete blindness in the eye contralateral to the section, whereas the other eye retained a full visual field, although the responsiveness of the temporal retina beyond 20 degrees from the vertical meridian was reduced. Similarly, the nasal hemiretina and most of the temporal hemiretina on the side of the section were represented in the opposite SC, whereas stimulation of the eye contralateral to the section could not drive SC units. There was some evidence that the visual field of the eye on the side of the section could at least in part be represented in the SC on the same side. The findings indicate that the crossed projections from temporal hemiretina in the ordinary cat, and the uncrossed projections from temporal hemiretina in the Siamese cat are insufficient by themselves to sustain visual orientation and to drive SC neurons. Each half of the visual field in the ordinary cat, and the field of each eye in the Siamese cat, can be represented in the ipsilateral SC via across-the-midline, indirect connections.", "PMID": 429613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_52", "title": "Facial thermal input to the trigeminal spinal nucleus of rabbits and rats.", "content": "In rabbits and rats under urethane anesthesia, a systematic survey was made of the caudal trigeminal nucleus, using glass coated tungsten microelectrodes. This revealed many neurons in the marginal layer sensitive either to warming or cooling the facial skin. The majority of these neurons were specifically temperature sensitive. In rats, a somatotopic arrangement of cold receptive fields was evident within the marginal layer of the trigeminal nucleus, with the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve represented most laterally, the mandibular most medially and the maxillary division represented over most of the recording region. This arrangement is similar to the mediolateral distribution seen in cats. In rabbits, the distribution was less rigorous but the ophthalmic division tended to be represented caudally and the mandibular division rostrally. The maxillary division was represented over most of the recording region. All receptive fields were ipsilateral and showed spatial convergence of input. Both rabbits and rats possessed a concentration of thermal receptive-fields around the nose, whisker pad and mouth. At steady skin temperatures, marginal units gave bell-shaped intensity functions which were very similar to those reported for the cold and warm receptors. With rapid changes of temperature, neurons responded with a dynamic outburst which corresponded to the equivalent receptor response.", "contents": "Facial thermal input to the trigeminal spinal nucleus of rabbits and rats. In rabbits and rats under urethane anesthesia, a systematic survey was made of the caudal trigeminal nucleus, using glass coated tungsten microelectrodes. This revealed many neurons in the marginal layer sensitive either to warming or cooling the facial skin. The majority of these neurons were specifically temperature sensitive. In rats, a somatotopic arrangement of cold receptive fields was evident within the marginal layer of the trigeminal nucleus, with the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve represented most laterally, the mandibular most medially and the maxillary division represented over most of the recording region. This arrangement is similar to the mediolateral distribution seen in cats. In rabbits, the distribution was less rigorous but the ophthalmic division tended to be represented caudally and the mandibular division rostrally. The maxillary division was represented over most of the recording region. All receptive fields were ipsilateral and showed spatial convergence of input. Both rabbits and rats possessed a concentration of thermal receptive-fields around the nose, whisker pad and mouth. At steady skin temperatures, marginal units gave bell-shaped intensity functions which were very similar to those reported for the cold and warm receptors. With rapid changes of temperature, neurons responded with a dynamic outburst which corresponded to the equivalent receptor response.", "PMID": 429614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_53", "title": "Two modes of cutaneous reinnervation following peripheral nerve injury.", "content": "The return of sensation to the foot following sciatic nerve crush injury was analyzed behaviorally and electrophysiologically in the rat. Functional recovery begins within four days. Its early phase is accounted for by expansion of the functional distribution of intact neighboring fibers of the saphenous n. It occurs even if the sciatic n. is ligated, and it disappears with section of the saphenous n. Accompanying this functional expansion we began to encounter in electrophysiological recordings from the saphenous n., fibers with unusually large receptive fields (RF's) extending onto the plantar surface of the foot, well beyond their limits in intact rats. All of the expanded RF's were high threshold mechanoreceptors. On about the twentieth day after crushing, the regenerating sciatic n. began to make a functional contribution. This was seen by return of sensation to zones not invaded by the saphenous n. and by the onset of sensation in rats in which the saphenous n. had previously been ligated. With return of the sciatic n. the expanded distribution of the saphenous n. went back to its original boundaries. Correspondingly, we could no longer find expanded saphenous n. RF's. We conclude that cutaneous reinnervation begins with the collateral expansion of high threshold afferents from intact neighboring nerves. This alien innervation is later replaced upon regeneration of the original nerve.", "contents": "Two modes of cutaneous reinnervation following peripheral nerve injury. The return of sensation to the foot following sciatic nerve crush injury was analyzed behaviorally and electrophysiologically in the rat. Functional recovery begins within four days. Its early phase is accounted for by expansion of the functional distribution of intact neighboring fibers of the saphenous n. It occurs even if the sciatic n. is ligated, and it disappears with section of the saphenous n. Accompanying this functional expansion we began to encounter in electrophysiological recordings from the saphenous n., fibers with unusually large receptive fields (RF's) extending onto the plantar surface of the foot, well beyond their limits in intact rats. All of the expanded RF's were high threshold mechanoreceptors. On about the twentieth day after crushing, the regenerating sciatic n. began to make a functional contribution. This was seen by return of sensation to zones not invaded by the saphenous n. and by the onset of sensation in rats in which the saphenous n. had previously been ligated. With return of the sciatic n. the expanded distribution of the saphenous n. went back to its original boundaries. Correspondingly, we could no longer find expanded saphenous n. RF's. We conclude that cutaneous reinnervation begins with the collateral expansion of high threshold afferents from intact neighboring nerves. This alien innervation is later replaced upon regeneration of the original nerve.", "PMID": 429615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_54", "title": "Sympathetic neurons in the cat spinal cord projecting to the stellate ganglion.", "content": "Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected into the stellate ganglia of anesthetized cats. After a 2-day survival time the spinal cord was processed for the HRP reaction to study the distribution of the preganglionic neurons which project to the stellate ganglia. HRP-labeled neurons in the cord were located exclusively on the side ipsilateral to the injected stellate ganglia and were concentrated in four distinct areas: (1) intermediolateral cell column (78.2%), (2) lateral funiculus (18.5%), (3) intercalated area and (4) central autonomic area (3.3%) for the latter 2 areas). Their distribution pattern in the very rostral pole of the thoracic sympathetic preganglionic cell column was different from the typical thoracic pattern in that a greater proportion of the cells were located in the lateral funiculus, and a few labeled cells were observed in the ventral horn. Longitudinally, a wide range (C8-T8) of spinal cord levels projected to the stellate ganglia, with a peak at the T2 level. These observations infer that a large population of axonal processes of sympathetic preganglionic neurons traveled several segments of the spinal cord through an intraspinal pathway before exiting a particular ventral root.", "contents": "Sympathetic neurons in the cat spinal cord projecting to the stellate ganglion. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected into the stellate ganglia of anesthetized cats. After a 2-day survival time the spinal cord was processed for the HRP reaction to study the distribution of the preganglionic neurons which project to the stellate ganglia. HRP-labeled neurons in the cord were located exclusively on the side ipsilateral to the injected stellate ganglia and were concentrated in four distinct areas: (1) intermediolateral cell column (78.2%), (2) lateral funiculus (18.5%), (3) intercalated area and (4) central autonomic area (3.3%) for the latter 2 areas). Their distribution pattern in the very rostral pole of the thoracic sympathetic preganglionic cell column was different from the typical thoracic pattern in that a greater proportion of the cells were located in the lateral funiculus, and a few labeled cells were observed in the ventral horn. Longitudinally, a wide range (C8-T8) of spinal cord levels projected to the stellate ganglia, with a peak at the T2 level. These observations infer that a large population of axonal processes of sympathetic preganglionic neurons traveled several segments of the spinal cord through an intraspinal pathway before exiting a particular ventral root.", "PMID": 429616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_55", "title": "Topographic projections of the retina and optic tectum upon the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus in the chick.", "content": "The topographic projections of the retina upon the optic tectum and ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (GLv) of the chick were investigated by making small intraretinal injections of 3H-proline. The retinotectal projection pattern was similar to that described for the pigeon. The retinal projection to the GLv was also topographic and was restricted to the outermost lamina of the nucleus. The anteroposterior retinal axis was reversed in the GLv relative to its orientation in the tectum but the superoinferior axis was oriented identically in both. Furthermore, the posterior retina had an enlarged area of projection in the GLv similar to the enlarged area of retinotectal projection for the \"red field\" found in pigeons. The tectogeniculate projection was topographic and was confined to the outermost geniculate lamina. The second-order retinotopic map made by the tectogeniculate projections was in register with the retinogeniculate projection. Although the retinal and tectal projection areas were coextensive in the outermost geniculate lamina, the grain density distributions peaked at different points along a radial path through the geniculate laminae. Injections of HRP into the optic tectum led to very light retrograde labeling of a small population of GLv cells topographically corresponding to the tectogeniculate projection zone of the injection site. The data suggest that the chick GLv is comparable to the GLv of other non-primate mammals.", "contents": "Topographic projections of the retina and optic tectum upon the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus in the chick. The topographic projections of the retina upon the optic tectum and ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (GLv) of the chick were investigated by making small intraretinal injections of 3H-proline. The retinotectal projection pattern was similar to that described for the pigeon. The retinal projection to the GLv was also topographic and was restricted to the outermost lamina of the nucleus. The anteroposterior retinal axis was reversed in the GLv relative to its orientation in the tectum but the superoinferior axis was oriented identically in both. Furthermore, the posterior retina had an enlarged area of projection in the GLv similar to the enlarged area of retinotectal projection for the \"red field\" found in pigeons. The tectogeniculate projection was topographic and was confined to the outermost geniculate lamina. The second-order retinotopic map made by the tectogeniculate projections was in register with the retinogeniculate projection. Although the retinal and tectal projection areas were coextensive in the outermost geniculate lamina, the grain density distributions peaked at different points along a radial path through the geniculate laminae. Injections of HRP into the optic tectum led to very light retrograde labeling of a small population of GLv cells topographically corresponding to the tectogeniculate projection zone of the injection site. The data suggest that the chick GLv is comparable to the GLv of other non-primate mammals.", "PMID": 429617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_56", "title": "The cochlear nuclei of some turtles.", "content": "Histological sections of the brains of eight species of turtles representing six different families were studied in order to delineate the cochlear nuclei. In addition, the posterior eighth cranial nerve root and its ganglion were sectioned in 15 specimens of Kinosternon leucostomum, and the distribution of the degenerated nerve fibers and terminals was determined. Two primary and one probably secondary nuclei were demonstrated by the terminal degeneration pattern of the cochlear fibers. A spherical nucleus angularis and an elongated nuclus magnocellularis together form a column of primary cochlear nuclei in the dorsal alar lamina of the medulla. Heavy terminal degeneration is seen associated with these cells following transection of the posterior eighth nerve and ganglion. Nucleus magnocellularis is probably homologous with the nucleus magnocellularis medialis of lizards and crocodiles, and has been described in turtles as nucleus dorsalis magnocellularis by previous authors. A probably secondary cochlear nucleus, nucleus laminaris, lies just ventral to the nucleus magnocellularis. It is associated with the nucleus magnocellularis throughout its length but is shorter. Nucleus laminaris remains free of terminal degeneration after destruction of the posterior eighth nerve and ganglion. The cochlear nuclei of other turtle species were very similar to those of Kinosternon leucostomum.", "contents": "The cochlear nuclei of some turtles. Histological sections of the brains of eight species of turtles representing six different families were studied in order to delineate the cochlear nuclei. In addition, the posterior eighth cranial nerve root and its ganglion were sectioned in 15 specimens of Kinosternon leucostomum, and the distribution of the degenerated nerve fibers and terminals was determined. Two primary and one probably secondary nuclei were demonstrated by the terminal degeneration pattern of the cochlear fibers. A spherical nucleus angularis and an elongated nuclus magnocellularis together form a column of primary cochlear nuclei in the dorsal alar lamina of the medulla. Heavy terminal degeneration is seen associated with these cells following transection of the posterior eighth nerve and ganglion. Nucleus magnocellularis is probably homologous with the nucleus magnocellularis medialis of lizards and crocodiles, and has been described in turtles as nucleus dorsalis magnocellularis by previous authors. A probably secondary cochlear nucleus, nucleus laminaris, lies just ventral to the nucleus magnocellularis. It is associated with the nucleus magnocellularis throughout its length but is shorter. Nucleus laminaris remains free of terminal degeneration after destruction of the posterior eighth nerve and ganglion. The cochlear nuclei of other turtle species were very similar to those of Kinosternon leucostomum.", "PMID": 429618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_57", "title": "The lateral cervical nucleus in the cat: anatomic organization of cervicothalamic neurons.", "content": "The morphology of the lateral cervical nucleus (LCN) and the organization of the cervicothalamic projection neurons were studied in cats which had received thalamic injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The boundaries of the LCN were defined following very large thalamic (HRP injections. Roughly 92-97% of LCN cells project contralaterally to thalamus; an additional 1.5% project ipsillaterally. Computer-assisted measurements of perikaryal areas demonstrated that there are two sizes of LCN cells, large (175-900 micrometer 2) and small (less than 175 micrometer 2); the small cells are localized in the medial third of the LCN. LCN cells which are not labeled after large thalamic HRP injections are predomininantly small, medially-located neurons. Small HRP injections into physiologically identified regions of ventroposterior thalamus demonstrated that cervicothalamic neurons are organized in a topography consistent with that observed physiologically in the LCN (Craig and Tapper, '78). Dorsolateral LCN cells are retrogradely labeled from nucleus ventroposterolateralis, pars lateralis (VPL1), ventromedial LCN cells are labeled from pars medialis (VPL m), and a few medial cells are labeled from nucleus ventroposteromedialis (VPM). A few cells in the medial portion of the LCN are also labeled from each part of ventroposterior thalamus. Some interspersion was observed even in the cases with the most well-restricted labeling. We conclude that the LCN maintains a basic somatotographic organization with an inherent variability, certain aspects of which are consistently demonstrable both physiologically and anatomically. Evidence was also obtained suggestive of a rostrocaudal inversion in the cervicothalamic projection. The cervicothalamic projection, the differentiation of the medial LCN subpopulation, and the possible redefinition of the LCN are discussed in light of these results.", "contents": "The lateral cervical nucleus in the cat: anatomic organization of cervicothalamic neurons. The morphology of the lateral cervical nucleus (LCN) and the organization of the cervicothalamic projection neurons were studied in cats which had received thalamic injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The boundaries of the LCN were defined following very large thalamic (HRP injections. Roughly 92-97% of LCN cells project contralaterally to thalamus; an additional 1.5% project ipsillaterally. Computer-assisted measurements of perikaryal areas demonstrated that there are two sizes of LCN cells, large (175-900 micrometer 2) and small (less than 175 micrometer 2); the small cells are localized in the medial third of the LCN. LCN cells which are not labeled after large thalamic HRP injections are predomininantly small, medially-located neurons. Small HRP injections into physiologically identified regions of ventroposterior thalamus demonstrated that cervicothalamic neurons are organized in a topography consistent with that observed physiologically in the LCN (Craig and Tapper, '78). Dorsolateral LCN cells are retrogradely labeled from nucleus ventroposterolateralis, pars lateralis (VPL1), ventromedial LCN cells are labeled from pars medialis (VPL m), and a few medial cells are labeled from nucleus ventroposteromedialis (VPM). A few cells in the medial portion of the LCN are also labeled from each part of ventroposterior thalamus. Some interspersion was observed even in the cases with the most well-restricted labeling. We conclude that the LCN maintains a basic somatotographic organization with an inherent variability, certain aspects of which are consistently demonstrable both physiologically and anatomically. Evidence was also obtained suggestive of a rostrocaudal inversion in the cervicothalamic projection. The cervicothalamic projection, the differentiation of the medial LCN subpopulation, and the possible redefinition of the LCN are discussed in light of these results.", "PMID": 429620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_58", "title": "Retinal synaptic arrays: continuing development in the adult goldfish.", "content": "We report a light- and electron-microscopic examination of the inner plexiform layer of the central retina of young (c. 1 year) and old (3-4 year) goldfish. There were no new neurons added to this region during the growth period. Nonetheless, there were substantially more synapses (per cell, per mm2, or per degree 2) in the older retinas. This result is discussed in the contexts of retina function and neural development.", "contents": "Retinal synaptic arrays: continuing development in the adult goldfish. We report a light- and electron-microscopic examination of the inner plexiform layer of the central retina of young (c. 1 year) and old (3-4 year) goldfish. There were no new neurons added to this region during the growth period. Nonetheless, there were substantially more synapses (per cell, per mm2, or per degree 2) in the older retinas. This result is discussed in the contexts of retina function and neural development.", "PMID": 429621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_59", "title": "Localization of neurons in the rat superior cervical ganglion that project into different postganglionic trunks.", "content": "Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to determine whether neurons in the rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) are localized in regions of the ganglion as a function of the postganglionic trunk they utilize. In separate experiments, each of the two major postganglionic trunks was cut 1-3 mm from the SCG and solid HRP was applied to the cut end proximal to the ganglion. The results demonstrated that the cell bodies of neurons whose axons project out the internal carotid nerve (ICN) were located primarily in the rostral part of the ganglion. Cell bodies of neurons whose axons project out the external carotid nerve (ECN) were located primarily in the caudal part. The total percentages of neuronc with axons in the ICN and ECN were about 35% and 45%, respectively. When HRP was applied to both these trunks, 73% of the neurons in the SCG were labeled. In the caudal portion of the ganglion, an additional group of neurons was observed whose axons project into the cervical sympathetic trunk. Control studies indicated that the neuronal labeling observed in our experiments was due to retrograde axonal transport rather than the direct uptake of HRP by neuronal cell bodies. Thus, neuronal subpopulations exist in specific regions of the rat SCG. The significance of these results to biochemical and electrophysiological studies is discussed.", "contents": "Localization of neurons in the rat superior cervical ganglion that project into different postganglionic trunks. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to determine whether neurons in the rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) are localized in regions of the ganglion as a function of the postganglionic trunk they utilize. In separate experiments, each of the two major postganglionic trunks was cut 1-3 mm from the SCG and solid HRP was applied to the cut end proximal to the ganglion. The results demonstrated that the cell bodies of neurons whose axons project out the internal carotid nerve (ICN) were located primarily in the rostral part of the ganglion. Cell bodies of neurons whose axons project out the external carotid nerve (ECN) were located primarily in the caudal part. The total percentages of neuronc with axons in the ICN and ECN were about 35% and 45%, respectively. When HRP was applied to both these trunks, 73% of the neurons in the SCG were labeled. In the caudal portion of the ganglion, an additional group of neurons was observed whose axons project into the cervical sympathetic trunk. Control studies indicated that the neuronal labeling observed in our experiments was due to retrograde axonal transport rather than the direct uptake of HRP by neuronal cell bodies. Thus, neuronal subpopulations exist in specific regions of the rat SCG. The significance of these results to biochemical and electrophysiological studies is discussed.", "PMID": 429622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_60", "title": "Gated cardiac scanning: canine studies.", "content": "Retrospective electrocardiograph gating of data from a rotating detector fan beam computed tomography system was employed to produce end systolic and end diastolic images of the beating heart in a series of normal and experimentally infarcted canines. The gating window was typically less than 20% of the cardiac cycle, and the gated images showed superior spatial resolution compared with ungated images of the same cross section. Comparison of the scans of the normal and of the infarcted animals shows abnormal contrast enhancement of the myocardium in the region of the infarct, and the gating studies demonstrate dyskinetic behavior of the infarct zone.", "contents": "Gated cardiac scanning: canine studies. Retrospective electrocardiograph gating of data from a rotating detector fan beam computed tomography system was employed to produce end systolic and end diastolic images of the beating heart in a series of normal and experimentally infarcted canines. The gating window was typically less than 20% of the cardiac cycle, and the gated images showed superior spatial resolution compared with ungated images of the same cross section. Comparison of the scans of the normal and of the infarcted animals shows abnormal contrast enhancement of the myocardium in the region of the infarct, and the gating studies demonstrate dyskinetic behavior of the infarct zone.", "PMID": 429623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_61", "title": "Computed tomography of the thorax and standard radiographic evaluation of the chest: a comparative study.", "content": "Comparison of standard radiographic evaluation of the chest with computed tomography (CT) was carried out in 109 patients who were examined on a prototype EMI CT5000 scanner. Forty-eight patients had lung problems, and 61 were evaluated because of a mediastinal mass or widening, or for the detection of an occult thymoma in myasthenia gravis. Computed tomography was of value in the staging of bronchogenic carcinoma, particularly in the detection of direct mediastinal and pleural extension, and in evaluating patients with solitary or multiple nodules by detecting additional lesions and calcification. Thymomas not detected on conventional imaging modalities were visualized in 4 of 33 patients with myasthenia gravis or red cell aplasia. One of these was a false positive. In 28 patients with a mediastinal mass or widening on the chest roentgenogram, incremental information was noted on CT in 22. These included a definitive diagnosis of lesions composed of fat, evaluation of the isolated esophagus after colon by bypass surgery,and identification of the cause of paraspinal widening.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the thorax and standard radiographic evaluation of the chest: a comparative study. Comparison of standard radiographic evaluation of the chest with computed tomography (CT) was carried out in 109 patients who were examined on a prototype EMI CT5000 scanner. Forty-eight patients had lung problems, and 61 were evaluated because of a mediastinal mass or widening, or for the detection of an occult thymoma in myasthenia gravis. Computed tomography was of value in the staging of bronchogenic carcinoma, particularly in the detection of direct mediastinal and pleural extension, and in evaluating patients with solitary or multiple nodules by detecting additional lesions and calcification. Thymomas not detected on conventional imaging modalities were visualized in 4 of 33 patients with myasthenia gravis or red cell aplasia. One of these was a false positive. In 28 patients with a mediastinal mass or widening on the chest roentgenogram, incremental information was noted on CT in 22. These included a definitive diagnosis of lesions composed of fat, evaluation of the isolated esophagus after colon by bypass surgery,and identification of the cause of paraspinal widening.", "PMID": 429624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_62", "title": "In vitro computed tomography of the human placenta.", "content": "A plastic holding device has been devised to allow in vitro computed tomography of term human placentas. Graded dilutions of iodinated contrast medium have been injected into the fetal placental circulation and into the intervillous space of placental lobules perfused with normal saline solution. Computed tomography in different orientations has imaged Borell's \"jets\" on the maternal side and cotyledonary vascular \"puffs\" on the fetal side of the placenta. Attenuation coefficients, before and after injection of contrast medium may be used for quantitative investigation of the physiological placental circulation and possibly for diagnosing placental pathology.", "contents": "In vitro computed tomography of the human placenta. A plastic holding device has been devised to allow in vitro computed tomography of term human placentas. Graded dilutions of iodinated contrast medium have been injected into the fetal placental circulation and into the intervillous space of placental lobules perfused with normal saline solution. Computed tomography in different orientations has imaged Borell's \"jets\" on the maternal side and cotyledonary vascular \"puffs\" on the fetal side of the placenta. Attenuation coefficients, before and after injection of contrast medium may be used for quantitative investigation of the physiological placental circulation and possibly for diagnosing placental pathology.", "PMID": 429625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_63", "title": "Computed tomography of rabbit V2 carcinoma after intraarterial contrast enhancement.", "content": "Changes in X-ray attenuation of rabbit V2 carcinoma, as determined by computed tomography (CT) scanning, were assessed following the intraarterial and intravenous administration of a water soluble contrast agent. After intraarterial contrast medium administration, a significant increase in CT attenuation values occurred in both blood and V2 carcinoma, and the attenuation values remained above control values for at least 120 min. A similar, although less pronounced, increase in VA attenuation values occurred following intravenous contrast medium administration. Comparison of V2 CT enhancement values after intraarterial and intravenous administration suggested that tumor enhancement was greater after intraarterial administration.", "contents": "Computed tomography of rabbit V2 carcinoma after intraarterial contrast enhancement. Changes in X-ray attenuation of rabbit V2 carcinoma, as determined by computed tomography (CT) scanning, were assessed following the intraarterial and intravenous administration of a water soluble contrast agent. After intraarterial contrast medium administration, a significant increase in CT attenuation values occurred in both blood and V2 carcinoma, and the attenuation values remained above control values for at least 120 min. A similar, although less pronounced, increase in VA attenuation values occurred following intravenous contrast medium administration. Comparison of V2 CT enhancement values after intraarterial and intravenous administration suggested that tumor enhancement was greater after intraarterial administration.", "PMID": 429626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_64", "title": "The use of contrast -- detail -- dose evaluation of image quality in a computed tomographic scanner.", "content": "Limiting-perception measurements of hole patterns in computed tomography reconstructions of a low-contrast phantom are used to generate contrast -- detail -- dose diagrams for various contrasts, hole diameters, dose, and system modulation transfer functions (MTF). These curves are then divided into MTF-dominated, transition, and noise-dominated regions. The low-contrast perceptibility and image noise are parameterized and compared. A limiting-perception factor is difined and is shown to be nearly independent of contrast, hole diameter, dose, and MTF in the noise-dominated region.", "contents": "The use of contrast -- detail -- dose evaluation of image quality in a computed tomographic scanner. Limiting-perception measurements of hole patterns in computed tomography reconstructions of a low-contrast phantom are used to generate contrast -- detail -- dose diagrams for various contrasts, hole diameters, dose, and system modulation transfer functions (MTF). These curves are then divided into MTF-dominated, transition, and noise-dominated regions. The low-contrast perceptibility and image noise are parameterized and compared. A limiting-perception factor is difined and is shown to be nearly independent of contrast, hole diameter, dose, and MTF in the noise-dominated region.", "PMID": 429627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_65", "title": "Contrast--detail--dose analysis of six different computed tomographic scanners.", "content": "Low-contrast visibility of various rotate-translate, rotating detector, and stationary detector computed tomogrphy (CT) scanners is measured at contrasts ranging from 0.3 to 3% using a phantom based on the partial volume of water and polystyrene. The results are plotted on log-log curves, as a function of entrance dose, to provide a family of contrast (C)--detail (d)--dose (D) visibility curves. The transition region, approximately 1 to 10% contrast, depends on modulation transfer function (MTF), contrast, and the dose (noise), while the noise region, less than or equal to 1% contrast, is independent of MTF. The slopes of the curves in the noise region are consistent with a value of -1, as opposed to a theoretically expected value of -3/2 for ideal CT noise. Relative dose efficiency of various scanners is examined by plotting CdD(1/2) versus contrast for both peak dose (Dp) and summation dose (D sigma). The rotating detector systems are shown to be, on the average (at 0.5% contrast), 3.4 (Dp) and 4 (D sigma) times more dose efficient than the stationary array system examined, and 2.4 (Dp) and 3.2 (D sigma) times more efficient than the rotate-translate units examined.", "contents": "Contrast--detail--dose analysis of six different computed tomographic scanners. Low-contrast visibility of various rotate-translate, rotating detector, and stationary detector computed tomogrphy (CT) scanners is measured at contrasts ranging from 0.3 to 3% using a phantom based on the partial volume of water and polystyrene. The results are plotted on log-log curves, as a function of entrance dose, to provide a family of contrast (C)--detail (d)--dose (D) visibility curves. The transition region, approximately 1 to 10% contrast, depends on modulation transfer function (MTF), contrast, and the dose (noise), while the noise region, less than or equal to 1% contrast, is independent of MTF. The slopes of the curves in the noise region are consistent with a value of -1, as opposed to a theoretically expected value of -3/2 for ideal CT noise. Relative dose efficiency of various scanners is examined by plotting CdD(1/2) versus contrast for both peak dose (Dp) and summation dose (D sigma). The rotating detector systems are shown to be, on the average (at 0.5% contrast), 3.4 (Dp) and 4 (D sigma) times more dose efficient than the stationary array system examined, and 2.4 (Dp) and 3.2 (D sigma) times more efficient than the rotate-translate units examined.", "PMID": 429628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_66", "title": "Diagnosis of cranial asymmetries in cerebral arteriovenous malformations.", "content": "Nine of 29 patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations exhibited abnormal cranial asymmetries on computed tomography (CT). Two of these patients showed no other abnormalities on their precontrast CT scans. Assessment of cranial asymmetry is recommended in all patients suspected of having an arteriovenous malformation.", "contents": "Diagnosis of cranial asymmetries in cerebral arteriovenous malformations. Nine of 29 patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations exhibited abnormal cranial asymmetries on computed tomography (CT). Two of these patients showed no other abnormalities on their precontrast CT scans. Assessment of cranial asymmetry is recommended in all patients suspected of having an arteriovenous malformation.", "PMID": 429629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_67", "title": "Compartment analysis of contrast enhancement in brain infarctions.", "content": "Contrast enhancement has been studied with computed tomography in 18 patients with brain infarction. Four patients were examined on more than one occasion. A mode of contrast medium administration has been used that results in constant blood iodine concentration during the investigation. The enhancement pattern was analyzed using a compartment model. A fast and a slow component of contrast enhancement was quantified for different parts of the infarct. Correlation with the age of the infarct confirms earlier studies, indicating a maximum enhancement at 2 to 4 weeks after the incidence of the infarct.", "contents": "Compartment analysis of contrast enhancement in brain infarctions. Contrast enhancement has been studied with computed tomography in 18 patients with brain infarction. Four patients were examined on more than one occasion. A mode of contrast medium administration has been used that results in constant blood iodine concentration during the investigation. The enhancement pattern was analyzed using a compartment model. A fast and a slow component of contrast enhancement was quantified for different parts of the infarct. Correlation with the age of the infarct confirms earlier studies, indicating a maximum enhancement at 2 to 4 weeks after the incidence of the infarct.", "PMID": 429630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_68", "title": "Radiation necrosis of the brain: correlation between patterns on computed tomography and dose of radiation.", "content": "Recurrent symptoms after radiation therapy of a brain tumor are not always the result of regrowth of the neoplasm but may represent radiation necrosis of the brain. Seventeen patients with proven cerebral radionecrosis are included in the present study. In five patients who received 5,000 to 5,500 rads, areas of radiation necrosis of the brain were shown on computed tomography (CT) as low density lesions with no mass effect or contrast enhancement. In 12 patients who received 6,000 to 7,000 rads, radionecrosis was shown on the CT scans either as a localized mass with contrast enhancement or as diffuse low density, isodense, or high density lesions with no mass effect but with occasional enhancement. In all cases, the lesions coincided well with volumes of the brain that received a threshold dose of radiation determined from the isodose reconstruction maps.", "contents": "Radiation necrosis of the brain: correlation between patterns on computed tomography and dose of radiation. Recurrent symptoms after radiation therapy of a brain tumor are not always the result of regrowth of the neoplasm but may represent radiation necrosis of the brain. Seventeen patients with proven cerebral radionecrosis are included in the present study. In five patients who received 5,000 to 5,500 rads, areas of radiation necrosis of the brain were shown on computed tomography (CT) as low density lesions with no mass effect or contrast enhancement. In 12 patients who received 6,000 to 7,000 rads, radionecrosis was shown on the CT scans either as a localized mass with contrast enhancement or as diffuse low density, isodense, or high density lesions with no mass effect but with occasional enhancement. In all cases, the lesions coincided well with volumes of the brain that received a threshold dose of radiation determined from the isodose reconstruction maps.", "PMID": 429631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_69", "title": "Utilization of computed tomography scanners and the health planning issue: a process data summary.", "content": "Studies were made of the computed tomography (CT) scanning process at three hospitals. The data collected, while of interest to hospital administrators and radiologists, are particularly significant in view of the current structure of health planning guuielines. The data show clearly that the utilization potential of a particular CT scanner is a function of patient demand, scan time, the ratio of head to body procedures, and medical practice insofar as contrast medium administration is concerned. This paper summarizes the results of the hospital studies and documents the implications of the data for health planning guidelines.", "contents": "Utilization of computed tomography scanners and the health planning issue: a process data summary. Studies were made of the computed tomography (CT) scanning process at three hospitals. The data collected, while of interest to hospital administrators and radiologists, are particularly significant in view of the current structure of health planning guuielines. The data show clearly that the utilization potential of a particular CT scanner is a function of patient demand, scan time, the ratio of head to body procedures, and medical practice insofar as contrast medium administration is concerned. This paper summarizes the results of the hospital studies and documents the implications of the data for health planning guidelines.", "PMID": 429632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_70", "title": "Data collection for cross-sectional image reconstruction by a moving ring of positron annihilation detectors.", "content": "A ring of positron annihilation detectors capable of two independent motions in the plane of the ring is considered. It can rotate around its center, and the whole ring may move so that its center traces a circular path. Provided certain parameters are chosen according to given formulas, data collected by such a detector ring can be reorganized (rebinned), in a computationally very inexpensive fashion, so that the data items in each bin are measurements along parallel lines spaced at small equal intervals. Efficient high resolution reconstruction algorithms that assume such data organization can therefore be applied to data collected collected by a moving positron ring detector. The method is demonstrated on a realistic example.", "contents": "Data collection for cross-sectional image reconstruction by a moving ring of positron annihilation detectors. A ring of positron annihilation detectors capable of two independent motions in the plane of the ring is considered. It can rotate around its center, and the whole ring may move so that its center traces a circular path. Provided certain parameters are chosen according to given formulas, data collected by such a detector ring can be reorganized (rebinned), in a computationally very inexpensive fashion, so that the data items in each bin are measurements along parallel lines spaced at small equal intervals. Efficient high resolution reconstruction algorithms that assume such data organization can therefore be applied to data collected collected by a moving positron ring detector. The method is demonstrated on a realistic example.", "PMID": 429633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_71", "title": "Evidence of CSF enhancement in the spinal subarachnoid space after intravenous contrast medium administration: is intravenous computer assisted myelography possible?", "content": "Following intravenous injection of iodinated contrast medium, peripheral enhancement of the area inside the spinal canal, is frequently observed by computed tomography. This may be due, at least in part, to enhancement of the cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal subarachnoid space. Our preliminary observations in human patients and in animal experiments are reported. The goal of intravenous computer assisted myelography is worth pursuing.", "contents": "Evidence of CSF enhancement in the spinal subarachnoid space after intravenous contrast medium administration: is intravenous computer assisted myelography possible? Following intravenous injection of iodinated contrast medium, peripheral enhancement of the area inside the spinal canal, is frequently observed by computed tomography. This may be due, at least in part, to enhancement of the cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal subarachnoid space. Our preliminary observations in human patients and in animal experiments are reported. The goal of intravenous computer assisted myelography is worth pursuing.", "PMID": 429634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_72", "title": "Communication of right and left perirenal spaces demonstrated by computed tomography.", "content": "The anatomy of the perirenal space in recent radiologic texts differs from Gerota's initial description. A case of renal trauma is presented in which computed tomography shows communication of extravasated urine from one perirenal space to the other.", "contents": "Communication of right and left perirenal spaces demonstrated by computed tomography. The anatomy of the perirenal space in recent radiologic texts differs from Gerota's initial description. A case of renal trauma is presented in which computed tomography shows communication of extravasated urine from one perirenal space to the other.", "PMID": 429635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_73", "title": "Neuroblastoma follow-up by computed tomography.", "content": "Follow-up by computed tomography (CT) was quite useful in a child with neuroblastoma. Regression of the initial abnormal findings was shown on a second CT scan as reduction of mediastinal mass. Soon thereafter, however, the patient deteriorated clinically. The CT findings demonstrated progression of the mediastinal expansion as well as multiple organ involvement, supplying significant additional information as compared to conventional X-ray films.", "contents": "Neuroblastoma follow-up by computed tomography. Follow-up by computed tomography (CT) was quite useful in a child with neuroblastoma. Regression of the initial abnormal findings was shown on a second CT scan as reduction of mediastinal mass. Soon thereafter, however, the patient deteriorated clinically. The CT findings demonstrated progression of the mediastinal expansion as well as multiple organ involvement, supplying significant additional information as compared to conventional X-ray films.", "PMID": 429636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_74", "title": "Cerebral computed tomography in Reye syndrome.", "content": "The computed tomography (CT) findings in a case of Reye syndrome are presented. A striking discrepancy between the CT attenuation of infratentorial (elevated values) and supratentorial structures is observed.", "contents": "Cerebral computed tomography in Reye syndrome. The computed tomography (CT) findings in a case of Reye syndrome are presented. A striking discrepancy between the CT attenuation of infratentorial (elevated values) and supratentorial structures is observed.", "PMID": 429637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_75", "title": "Multiple axis image reconstruction from axial transverse data.", "content": "The technique for alternate axis reconstruction from axial transverse computed tomography data is presented. The utility of the method as an adjunct to diagnosis, radiotherapy treatment planning, and tumor biopsy is discussed. The relative radiation dose and resolution characteristics between this and other methods are compared.", "contents": "Multiple axis image reconstruction from axial transverse data. The technique for alternate axis reconstruction from axial transverse computed tomography data is presented. The utility of the method as an adjunct to diagnosis, radiotherapy treatment planning, and tumor biopsy is discussed. The relative radiation dose and resolution characteristics between this and other methods are compared.", "PMID": 429638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_76", "title": "A simple technique for identification of the lower extremity vascular bundle on computed tomography.", "content": "Drip infusion of contrast medium has been used prior to computed tomography of the lower extremities to define the deep veins of the leg (vascular bundle).", "contents": "A simple technique for identification of the lower extremity vascular bundle on computed tomography. Drip infusion of contrast medium has been used prior to computed tomography of the lower extremities to define the deep veins of the leg (vascular bundle).", "PMID": 429639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_77", "title": "Localization of scanning level in computed tomography of the spine.", "content": "A simple method for identifying the scanning level in computed tomography (CT) of the spine is described. The method involves exposing a lead lattice grid on a conventional X-ray film and taking a conventional spine film with aluminum markers on the patient's back. The film showing the grid and the markers on the patient's spine is used to localize the CT scans taken with the aluminum markers still on the patient's back.", "contents": "Localization of scanning level in computed tomography of the spine. A simple method for identifying the scanning level in computed tomography (CT) of the spine is described. The method involves exposing a lead lattice grid on a conventional X-ray film and taking a conventional spine film with aluminum markers on the patient's back. The film showing the grid and the markers on the patient's spine is used to localize the CT scans taken with the aluminum markers still on the patient's back.", "PMID": 429640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_78", "title": "Rectal thiopental for sedation of children for computed tomography.", "content": "Rectally administered thiopental was evaluated for sedation in pediatric computed tomography and compared with \"cardiac cocktail\" sedation. The drug produced sedation as effective as the \"cocktail\" with easier administration, more rapid onset, and shorter duration of sedation. Although no complications were observed, careful observation for respiratory depression is suggested.", "contents": "Rectal thiopental for sedation of children for computed tomography. Rectally administered thiopental was evaluated for sedation in pediatric computed tomography and compared with \"cardiac cocktail\" sedation. The drug produced sedation as effective as the \"cocktail\" with easier administration, more rapid onset, and shorter duration of sedation. Although no complications were observed, careful observation for respiratory depression is suggested.", "PMID": 429641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_79", "title": "Complications of implantation of synthetic fibers into scalps for \"hair\" replacement: experience with fourteen cases.", "content": "Fourteen cases of complications from implantation of acrylic fibers into scalps for correction of male-pattern baldness were studied. The complications were severe enough in all of them to force attempts to remove the fibers, many of which from the nature of their knotted insertion could not be extracted. Thus, immediate complications were encountered and serious, delayed, bad effects are anticipated. Among the early complications already observed are marked edema of the face; hemorrhagic oozing; microbial infection; foreign-body reactions; scarring; acneform comedones and pustules; pain, pruritus, and numbness; and loss of natural hair. Complications in the furture are likely to be progressive sclerosis from irretrievable fragments and knots of the artificial materials and conceivably malignant degeneration of tissues of the scalp. For all of these known and possible bad effects, implantation of present-day synthetic fibers into the scalp must be judged to be a dangerous practice that must be stopped at once.", "contents": "Complications of implantation of synthetic fibers into scalps for \"hair\" replacement: experience with fourteen cases. Fourteen cases of complications from implantation of acrylic fibers into scalps for correction of male-pattern baldness were studied. The complications were severe enough in all of them to force attempts to remove the fibers, many of which from the nature of their knotted insertion could not be extracted. Thus, immediate complications were encountered and serious, delayed, bad effects are anticipated. Among the early complications already observed are marked edema of the face; hemorrhagic oozing; microbial infection; foreign-body reactions; scarring; acneform comedones and pustules; pain, pruritus, and numbness; and loss of natural hair. Complications in the furture are likely to be progressive sclerosis from irretrievable fragments and knots of the artificial materials and conceivably malignant degeneration of tissues of the scalp. For all of these known and possible bad effects, implantation of present-day synthetic fibers into the scalp must be judged to be a dangerous practice that must be stopped at once.", "PMID": 429673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_80", "title": "Uses of the O-to-Z-plasty repair in dermatologic surgery.", "content": "The mechanics of repairing round and oval wounds by O to Z-plasty and some personal modifications and uses in special circumstances and locations are described. Several schematics and photographs illustrate the technique and clinical results.", "contents": "Uses of the O-to-Z-plasty repair in dermatologic surgery. The mechanics of repairing round and oval wounds by O to Z-plasty and some personal modifications and uses in special circumstances and locations are described. Several schematics and photographs illustrate the technique and clinical results.", "PMID": 429674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_81", "title": "A giant hairy pigmented nevus on the face: excision and reconstruction in stages.", "content": "Reasons for surgical ablation of giant hairy pigmented nevi are stated and surgical techniques of ablation are illustrated and described in a representative case on the face.", "contents": "A giant hairy pigmented nevus on the face: excision and reconstruction in stages. Reasons for surgical ablation of giant hairy pigmented nevi are stated and surgical techniques of ablation are illustrated and described in a representative case on the face.", "PMID": 429675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_82", "title": "Management of hyperhidrosis axillaris.", "content": "To many people, particularly women, hyperhidrosis of the axillae is a personal discomfort and a social handicap. Previously practiced topical and internal medicinal measures and surgical techniques of management are reviewed and a modified surgical technique is described.", "contents": "Management of hyperhidrosis axillaris. To many people, particularly women, hyperhidrosis of the axillae is a personal discomfort and a social handicap. Previously practiced topical and internal medicinal measures and surgical techniques of management are reviewed and a modified surgical technique is described.", "PMID": 429676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_83", "title": "Acne keloidalis nuchae: report and treatment of a severe case.", "content": "Acne keloidalis nuchae (folliculitis keloidalis or dermatitis papillaris capillitii) is a chronic, deep, scarring folliculitis of the nuchal area. Therapeutic measures such as oral and topical antibiotics, intralesional injections of fluorinated adrenocorticosteroids, and radiotherapy are sometimes effective in controlling this condition. A case of refractory acne keloidalis is presented to show the curative possibility of aggressive surgical therapy.", "contents": "Acne keloidalis nuchae: report and treatment of a severe case. Acne keloidalis nuchae (folliculitis keloidalis or dermatitis papillaris capillitii) is a chronic, deep, scarring folliculitis of the nuchal area. Therapeutic measures such as oral and topical antibiotics, intralesional injections of fluorinated adrenocorticosteroids, and radiotherapy are sometimes effective in controlling this condition. A case of refractory acne keloidalis is presented to show the curative possibility of aggressive surgical therapy.", "PMID": 429677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_84", "title": "Supervention of a pigmented basal-cell carcinoma upon a nevus sebaceus.", "content": "A case is reported of a deeply pigmented, pedunculated mass that developed upon a verrucous nevus. Biopsy proved the combined lesion to be a pigmented basal-cell carcinoma upon a nevus sebaceus. The carcinoma was completely contained in the biopsy and the nevus sebaceus it sprang from was ablated by surgical excision. Modern experience and management of such cases are reviewed briefly.", "contents": "Supervention of a pigmented basal-cell carcinoma upon a nevus sebaceus. A case is reported of a deeply pigmented, pedunculated mass that developed upon a verrucous nevus. Biopsy proved the combined lesion to be a pigmented basal-cell carcinoma upon a nevus sebaceus. The carcinoma was completely contained in the biopsy and the nevus sebaceus it sprang from was ablated by surgical excision. Modern experience and management of such cases are reviewed briefly.", "PMID": 429678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_85", "title": "Anaphylaxis to sunflower seed.", "content": "The clinical and immunological investigation of three patients with an acute anaphylaxis after ingesting commercial varieties of sunflower seeds is presented. Specific IgE-mediated hypersensitivity has been demonstrated in all three patients to sunflower seed extract by history, direct skin tests, and positive radioallergosorbent test (RAST) titers. RAST inhibition was positive in two patients tested. Similar tests on controls were negative.", "contents": "Anaphylaxis to sunflower seed. The clinical and immunological investigation of three patients with an acute anaphylaxis after ingesting commercial varieties of sunflower seeds is presented. Specific IgE-mediated hypersensitivity has been demonstrated in all three patients to sunflower seed extract by history, direct skin tests, and positive radioallergosorbent test (RAST) titers. RAST inhibition was positive in two patients tested. Similar tests on controls were negative.", "PMID": 429702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_86", "title": "Nasal methacholine challenge. A test for the measurement of nasal reactivity.", "content": "The aim of this study was to develop a test for the measurement of nasal reactivity. Different concentrations of methacholine were sprayed intranasally, and the nasal secretion and blockage were measured in normal subjects. The simple collection and measurement of secretion was found to be a valuable parameter of mucosal reactivity, while measurement of nasal airway resistance was unreliable, due in part to the presence of secretion in the nasal cavity. The methacholine test had a fairly good reproducibility when the amount of secretion was used as the only parameter. It caused a significantly stronger reaction in women than in men. Patients with perennial rhinitis had a more vigorous response than the controls. It is concluded that the methacholine test may prove useful as a sign of perennial rhinitis and also for the objective evaluation of medication, but further studies are warranted.", "contents": "Nasal methacholine challenge. A test for the measurement of nasal reactivity. The aim of this study was to develop a test for the measurement of nasal reactivity. Different concentrations of methacholine were sprayed intranasally, and the nasal secretion and blockage were measured in normal subjects. The simple collection and measurement of secretion was found to be a valuable parameter of mucosal reactivity, while measurement of nasal airway resistance was unreliable, due in part to the presence of secretion in the nasal cavity. The methacholine test had a fairly good reproducibility when the amount of secretion was used as the only parameter. It caused a significantly stronger reaction in women than in men. Patients with perennial rhinitis had a more vigorous response than the controls. It is concluded that the methacholine test may prove useful as a sign of perennial rhinitis and also for the objective evaluation of medication, but further studies are warranted.", "PMID": 429703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_87", "title": "The immune response of patients with ragweed hay fever treated with polymerized ragweed antigens.", "content": "This report describes the immune response of patients with ragweed hay fever treated with polymerized ragweed antigens (PRW). Their IgG antibody responses to crude ragweed extract, antigen E, antigen K, and antigen Ra3 were determined by a solid-phase radioimmunoassay. The results indicate that PRW contains an array of clinically important antigens that are available for immunologic processing and result in an immune response in patients treated with this new form of immunotherapy for ragweed hay fever.", "contents": "The immune response of patients with ragweed hay fever treated with polymerized ragweed antigens. This report describes the immune response of patients with ragweed hay fever treated with polymerized ragweed antigens (PRW). Their IgG antibody responses to crude ragweed extract, antigen E, antigen K, and antigen Ra3 were determined by a solid-phase radioimmunoassay. The results indicate that PRW contains an array of clinically important antigens that are available for immunologic processing and result in an immune response in patients treated with this new form of immunotherapy for ragweed hay fever.", "PMID": 429704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_88", "title": "Tartrazine and the prostaglandin system.", "content": "The effect of tartrazine on prostaglandin production was evaluated in several in vitro systems in order to elucidate the interrelationship between aspirin-sensitive asthma and tartrazine. Unlike the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tartrazine did not inhibit cyclooxygenase activity in sheep seminal vesicles, guinea pig lung microsomes, and human platelets. Tartrazine had no effect on the activation of acyl hydrolase, which is the rate-limiting step in prostaglandin production. The major metabolite of tartrazine, sulfanilic acid, also had no inhibitory effect on the sheep seminal vesicle cyclooxygenase. In view of these findings, if there is a cross-sensitivity between tartrazine and aspirin in aspirin-sensitive asthmatics, it is unlikely to be on the basis of prostaglandin inhibition.", "contents": "Tartrazine and the prostaglandin system. The effect of tartrazine on prostaglandin production was evaluated in several in vitro systems in order to elucidate the interrelationship between aspirin-sensitive asthma and tartrazine. Unlike the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tartrazine did not inhibit cyclooxygenase activity in sheep seminal vesicles, guinea pig lung microsomes, and human platelets. Tartrazine had no effect on the activation of acyl hydrolase, which is the rate-limiting step in prostaglandin production. The major metabolite of tartrazine, sulfanilic acid, also had no inhibitory effect on the sheep seminal vesicle cyclooxygenase. In view of these findings, if there is a cross-sensitivity between tartrazine and aspirin in aspirin-sensitive asthmatics, it is unlikely to be on the basis of prostaglandin inhibition.", "PMID": 429706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_89", "title": "Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine and exercise.", "content": "Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine and exercise was measured in 19 asthmatics. Histamine aerosol was inhaled to determine the provocative concentration producing a 20% fall in forced expired volume in one second (FEV1) (PC20). Exercise was performed on a treadmill and a cycle ergometer; following each procedure the percent fall in the FEV1 (delta FEV1) and the exercise lability (percent rise in FEV1 plus percent fall in FEV1) were calculated. Delta FEV1 and exercise lability after both forms of exercise were similar. PC20 correlated with delta FEV1 and exercise lability in both forms of exercise; however, the correlation with exercise lability was better. PC20 was more sensitive in demonstrating bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The close correlation between the level of bronchial responsiveness to histamine and exercise supports the view that release of endogenous chemical mediators is an important determinant of exercise-induced asthma. The treadmill exercise and cycle ergometry protocols were equally effective in producing exercise-induced asthma.", "contents": "Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine and exercise. Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine and exercise was measured in 19 asthmatics. Histamine aerosol was inhaled to determine the provocative concentration producing a 20% fall in forced expired volume in one second (FEV1) (PC20). Exercise was performed on a treadmill and a cycle ergometer; following each procedure the percent fall in the FEV1 (delta FEV1) and the exercise lability (percent rise in FEV1 plus percent fall in FEV1) were calculated. Delta FEV1 and exercise lability after both forms of exercise were similar. PC20 correlated with delta FEV1 and exercise lability in both forms of exercise; however, the correlation with exercise lability was better. PC20 was more sensitive in demonstrating bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The close correlation between the level of bronchial responsiveness to histamine and exercise supports the view that release of endogenous chemical mediators is an important determinant of exercise-induced asthma. The treadmill exercise and cycle ergometry protocols were equally effective in producing exercise-induced asthma.", "PMID": 429710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_90", "title": "An assessment of cardiorespiratory adjustments of asthmatic adults to exercise.", "content": "The cardiorespiratory adjustments of asthmatic adults to submaximal and maximal workloads were investigated. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured every 2 min during exercise and at the end of maximal physical effort. Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) occurred in all asthmatic subjects while normal subjects maintained normal spirometry. The results suggest that asthmatic adults have no cardiac reserve or oxygen delivery limitations. They work under less efficient ventilatory conditions at submaximal workloads and have a significantly lower functional work capacity. The high degree of correlation between preexercise maximal midexpiratory flow rate (MMF) and maximum O2 consumption (max Vo2) suggests that the smaller airways contribute significantly to the observed abnormalities. We recommend that evaluation of antiasthmatic medications in exercise-induced asthma should take into consideration their effect upon smaller airways and cardiorespiratory variables.", "contents": "An assessment of cardiorespiratory adjustments of asthmatic adults to exercise. The cardiorespiratory adjustments of asthmatic adults to submaximal and maximal workloads were investigated. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured every 2 min during exercise and at the end of maximal physical effort. Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) occurred in all asthmatic subjects while normal subjects maintained normal spirometry. The results suggest that asthmatic adults have no cardiac reserve or oxygen delivery limitations. They work under less efficient ventilatory conditions at submaximal workloads and have a significantly lower functional work capacity. The high degree of correlation between preexercise maximal midexpiratory flow rate (MMF) and maximum O2 consumption (max Vo2) suggests that the smaller airways contribute significantly to the observed abnormalities. We recommend that evaluation of antiasthmatic medications in exercise-induced asthma should take into consideration their effect upon smaller airways and cardiorespiratory variables.", "PMID": 429711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_91", "title": "Antigen E content of pollen from individual plants of short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia).", "content": "A study was conducted to ascertain how much variation in allergenic potency of ragweed pollen occurs among individual plants and different plant populations in a restricted geographic area. Seeds of the short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) were collected from 38 different sites in Champaign County, Ill. Plants from these seeds were grown under similar conditions, and antigen E (AgE) was determined on pollen samples harvested from individual plants. The populations from various sites in Champaign County differed by as much as severalfold with respect to mean AgE values. There were statistically significant differences among population means, although large variations occurred among plants within populations. Further research was conducted to learn whether the level of AgE was determined by genetic factors within the plants. Genetic regulation was indicated by the finding that 3 plants which had unusually low levels of pollen AgE all produced offspring with significantly lower mean AgE levels than those of control plants.", "contents": "Antigen E content of pollen from individual plants of short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). A study was conducted to ascertain how much variation in allergenic potency of ragweed pollen occurs among individual plants and different plant populations in a restricted geographic area. Seeds of the short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) were collected from 38 different sites in Champaign County, Ill. Plants from these seeds were grown under similar conditions, and antigen E (AgE) was determined on pollen samples harvested from individual plants. The populations from various sites in Champaign County differed by as much as severalfold with respect to mean AgE values. There were statistically significant differences among population means, although large variations occurred among plants within populations. Further research was conducted to learn whether the level of AgE was determined by genetic factors within the plants. Genetic regulation was indicated by the finding that 3 plants which had unusually low levels of pollen AgE all produced offspring with significantly lower mean AgE levels than those of control plants.", "PMID": 429713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_92", "title": "A new method of allergen standardization. Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis inhibition in a mouse-to-rat system in comparison with other methods.", "content": "Various methods have been employed for standardization of potency of allergen extracts. We used passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) inhibition in a mouse-to-rat system as a new means of standardization. Several allergen extracts, including mite, short ragweed, house dust, Aspergillus, Candida, and Japanese cedar, were examined. Mouse IgE antibodies were produced after two or three injections of antigen and alum. The potency measured by PCA inhibition in the mouse-to-rat system was compared with that of protein nitrogen (PN) content, end point of prick test in humans, and 50% radioallergosorbent test (RAST) inhibition. Our studies suggest that the mouse-to-rat system could be used to determine allergenic potency and to standardize allergen extracts.", "contents": "A new method of allergen standardization. Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis inhibition in a mouse-to-rat system in comparison with other methods. Various methods have been employed for standardization of potency of allergen extracts. We used passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) inhibition in a mouse-to-rat system as a new means of standardization. Several allergen extracts, including mite, short ragweed, house dust, Aspergillus, Candida, and Japanese cedar, were examined. Mouse IgE antibodies were produced after two or three injections of antigen and alum. The potency measured by PCA inhibition in the mouse-to-rat system was compared with that of protein nitrogen (PN) content, end point of prick test in humans, and 50% radioallergosorbent test (RAST) inhibition. Our studies suggest that the mouse-to-rat system could be used to determine allergenic potency and to standardize allergen extracts.", "PMID": 429715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_93", "title": "Some diets that meet the Dietary Goals for the United States.", "content": "Few people in the United States have diets with proportions of complex carbohydrate as high and proportions of protein, fat, and sugar as low as proposed in the second edition of the Dietary Goals for the United States by the Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs. Sample diets, including low-calorie diets for adults, were planned to meet the Recommended Dietary Allowances and the Dietary Goals. Two possible \"first steps\" in modifying diets to meet the Goals explored the use of: (a) Specified ranges rather than specific Goals and (b) some but not all of the Goals.", "contents": "Some diets that meet the Dietary Goals for the United States. Few people in the United States have diets with proportions of complex carbohydrate as high and proportions of protein, fat, and sugar as low as proposed in the second edition of the Dietary Goals for the United States by the Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs. Sample diets, including low-calorie diets for adults, were planned to meet the Recommended Dietary Allowances and the Dietary Goals. Two possible \"first steps\" in modifying diets to meet the Goals explored the use of: (a) Specified ranges rather than specific Goals and (b) some but not all of the Goals.", "PMID": 429717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_94", "title": "Strategies for nutritional counseling. Dietitians' attitudes and practice.", "content": "Responses to a questionnaire distributed to forty-four Midwest dietitians during the development of a program to train dietitians in patient counseling strategies are summarized. Dietitians rated forty-five strategies, divided into five broad categories: Instructional, motivational, behavioral, educational diagnosis, and assessment of compliance. Questions about each strategy included reported use, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers to implementation. Six nutritional consultants rated the relative innovativeness of the strategies. The results provide evidence that strategies currently being developed for training dietitians are compatible with dietetic practice, are often viewed favorably by practitioners, and are \"teachable\" to nutritionists.", "contents": "Strategies for nutritional counseling. Dietitians' attitudes and practice. Responses to a questionnaire distributed to forty-four Midwest dietitians during the development of a program to train dietitians in patient counseling strategies are summarized. Dietitians rated forty-five strategies, divided into five broad categories: Instructional, motivational, behavioral, educational diagnosis, and assessment of compliance. Questions about each strategy included reported use, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers to implementation. Six nutritional consultants rated the relative innovativeness of the strategies. The results provide evidence that strategies currently being developed for training dietitians are compatible with dietetic practice, are often viewed favorably by practitioners, and are \"teachable\" to nutritionists.", "PMID": 429718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_95", "title": "The consultant dietitian in nursing homes. I. Methodology and general information.", "content": "The functions of the consultant dietitian and the foodservice supervisor were studied by surveying dietitians consulting in nursing homes and the administrators of each dietitian's nursing home accounts. Data were available from consultants and administrators in 297 nursing homes in a twelve-state, midwestern region. Almost 60% of the homes had employed a consultant for three to eight years, and nearly half had employed the present consultant for the same length of time. Generally, the dietitians made one to three visits to the homes a month, for a total of 3 to 12 hr. The administrators listed personnel, cost of department operation, and facilities as problem areas in foodservice. Dietitians reported greater concern than did administrators in all of the rated problem areas except cost. Problem ratings of the two groups reflected differences in interest and expertise.", "contents": "The consultant dietitian in nursing homes. I. Methodology and general information. The functions of the consultant dietitian and the foodservice supervisor were studied by surveying dietitians consulting in nursing homes and the administrators of each dietitian's nursing home accounts. Data were available from consultants and administrators in 297 nursing homes in a twelve-state, midwestern region. Almost 60% of the homes had employed a consultant for three to eight years, and nearly half had employed the present consultant for the same length of time. Generally, the dietitians made one to three visits to the homes a month, for a total of 3 to 12 hr. The administrators listed personnel, cost of department operation, and facilities as problem areas in foodservice. Dietitians reported greater concern than did administrators in all of the rated problem areas except cost. Problem ratings of the two groups reflected differences in interest and expertise.", "PMID": 429719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_96", "title": "The consultant dietitian in nursing homes. II. Functions and change effectiveness.", "content": "Data are reported on functions and effectiveness of consultant dietitians in nursing homes. Key responsibilities of the consultants included: Planning and writing menus, in-service training, nutritional assessment, and discussing diets with physicians. Activities performed on each visit to the nursing home were resident visitation and dietary consultation, nutritional assessment, communication with other departments, and checking foodservice and sanitation procedures. Most important activities of the consultant, as perceived by the administrators, were in three functional areas: Menu planning, modified diets, and education and training. Administrators indicated that the most significant change brought about by consultants involved modified diets, menus, sanitation, and communication between the foodservice department and other departments and with the administration.", "contents": "The consultant dietitian in nursing homes. II. Functions and change effectiveness. Data are reported on functions and effectiveness of consultant dietitians in nursing homes. Key responsibilities of the consultants included: Planning and writing menus, in-service training, nutritional assessment, and discussing diets with physicians. Activities performed on each visit to the nursing home were resident visitation and dietary consultation, nutritional assessment, communication with other departments, and checking foodservice and sanitation procedures. Most important activities of the consultant, as perceived by the administrators, were in three functional areas: Menu planning, modified diets, and education and training. Administrators indicated that the most significant change brought about by consultants involved modified diets, menus, sanitation, and communication between the foodservice department and other departments and with the administration.", "PMID": 429720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_97", "title": "A computer-assisted personnel data system for a hospital department of dietetics. I. Development of the data base.", "content": "A data base was developed for a computer-assisted personnel data system for a university hospital department of dietetics which would store data on employees' employment, personnel information, attendance records, and termination. Development of the data base required designing computer programs and files, coding directions and forms for card input, and forms and procedures for on-line transmission. A program was written to compute accrued vacation, sick leave, and holiday time, and to generate historical records.", "contents": "A computer-assisted personnel data system for a hospital department of dietetics. I. Development of the data base. A data base was developed for a computer-assisted personnel data system for a university hospital department of dietetics which would store data on employees' employment, personnel information, attendance records, and termination. Development of the data base required designing computer programs and files, coding directions and forms for card input, and forms and procedures for on-line transmission. A program was written to compute accrued vacation, sick leave, and holiday time, and to generate historical records.", "PMID": 429721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_98", "title": "A computer-assisted personnel data system for a hospital department of dietetics. II. Labor accounting reports.", "content": "To provide timely and accurate labor accounting reports for a university hospital department of dietetics, six reports were designed: Monthly analysis of labor costs for biweekly employees, ledger of monthly labor costs, quarterly analysis of turnover, monthly report of unscheduled absenteeism for biweekly employees, labor listing, and seniority listing. Computer programs were written to generate four of these reports; two were generated from a generalized data base management system.", "contents": "A computer-assisted personnel data system for a hospital department of dietetics. II. Labor accounting reports. To provide timely and accurate labor accounting reports for a university hospital department of dietetics, six reports were designed: Monthly analysis of labor costs for biweekly employees, ledger of monthly labor costs, quarterly analysis of turnover, monthly report of unscheduled absenteeism for biweekly employees, labor listing, and seniority listing. Computer programs were written to generate four of these reports; two were generated from a generalized data base management system.", "PMID": 429722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_99", "title": "Salad production activities in a residence hall foodservice.", "content": "The objective of the study was to develop a method of assessing the relationship, rather than the absolute magnitude of the relationship, of production time for salads and the number of servings prepared in a university residence hall foodservice. The intercept, slope, and coefficient of determination relating to preparation time and number of salads were calculated for each salad. Production time was influenced by factors other than quantity of food produced.", "contents": "Salad production activities in a residence hall foodservice. The objective of the study was to develop a method of assessing the relationship, rather than the absolute magnitude of the relationship, of production time for salads and the number of servings prepared in a university residence hall foodservice. The intercept, slope, and coefficient of determination relating to preparation time and number of salads were calculated for each salad. Production time was influenced by factors other than quantity of food produced.", "PMID": 429723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_100", "title": "Mexican-American views of Anglo medical and dietetic practices.", "content": "Institutions involved in health care delivery and foodservice to a population with large ethnic communities might increase their effectiveness if they knew the possible influences of the folklore or local customs of these groups on the attitudes of their patients. The observations and survey of Spanish-speaking patients by the Department of Food Services at the University of Arizona Health Science Center should be a stimulus for further study of ethnic groups by health professionals.", "contents": "Mexican-American views of Anglo medical and dietetic practices. Institutions involved in health care delivery and foodservice to a population with large ethnic communities might increase their effectiveness if they knew the possible influences of the folklore or local customs of these groups on the attitudes of their patients. The observations and survey of Spanish-speaking patients by the Department of Food Services at the University of Arizona Health Science Center should be a stimulus for further study of ethnic groups by health professionals.", "PMID": 429724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_101", "title": "Myocardial infarction in the differential diagnosis of dementias in the elderly.", "content": "The incidence of cerebral lesions in relation to myocardial infarction (MI) was evaluated on the basis of data obtained from medical records and autopsy reports on 269 psychogeriatric patients, in a 13-year retrospective study. Among 84 demented patients with MI, brain infarcts and hemorrhages were found in 42 percent, and Alzheimer's disease in 17 percent; (combination in 8 percent). In contrast, among 70 demented patients without MI, brain infarcts and hemorrhages were found in 11 percent, and Alzheimer's disease in 43 percent; (combination in 6 percent). Therefore, when it is difficult to differentiate senile dementia (Alzheimer's disease) from dementia due to cerebrovascular impairment, data on the presence or absence of myocardial infarction may prove useful.", "contents": "Myocardial infarction in the differential diagnosis of dementias in the elderly. The incidence of cerebral lesions in relation to myocardial infarction (MI) was evaluated on the basis of data obtained from medical records and autopsy reports on 269 psychogeriatric patients, in a 13-year retrospective study. Among 84 demented patients with MI, brain infarcts and hemorrhages were found in 42 percent, and Alzheimer's disease in 17 percent; (combination in 8 percent). In contrast, among 70 demented patients without MI, brain infarcts and hemorrhages were found in 11 percent, and Alzheimer's disease in 43 percent; (combination in 6 percent). Therefore, when it is difficult to differentiate senile dementia (Alzheimer's disease) from dementia due to cerebrovascular impairment, data on the presence or absence of myocardial infarction may prove useful.", "PMID": 429728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_102", "title": "Chronic and acute disease problems in rural nursing home patients.", "content": "The patients of a rural nursing home in Iowa were surveyed according to age and sex, plus chronic and acute disease problems. With the use of the International Classification of Health Problems in Primary Care, the diagnoses were organized by major disease category and by specific diagnosis. Of the 66 patients, 76 percent were age 75 or older. Women comprised 61 percent of the group, and men 39 percent. Overall, the mean age was 79.1 years. Senility was the most common diagnosis for chronic diseases, and genitourinary infections for acute diseases. Circulatory system disorders comprised the largest category of chronic diseases, whereas genitourinary comprised the largest category of acute diseases. Overall, there were 4.2 chronic disorders per patient. Although the data compare favorably with those in the National Health Survey of nursing homes, more research is needed to prepare medical personnel for the problems associated with a rapidly expanding population of elderly patients.", "contents": "Chronic and acute disease problems in rural nursing home patients. The patients of a rural nursing home in Iowa were surveyed according to age and sex, plus chronic and acute disease problems. With the use of the International Classification of Health Problems in Primary Care, the diagnoses were organized by major disease category and by specific diagnosis. Of the 66 patients, 76 percent were age 75 or older. Women comprised 61 percent of the group, and men 39 percent. Overall, the mean age was 79.1 years. Senility was the most common diagnosis for chronic diseases, and genitourinary infections for acute diseases. Circulatory system disorders comprised the largest category of chronic diseases, whereas genitourinary comprised the largest category of acute diseases. Overall, there were 4.2 chronic disorders per patient. Although the data compare favorably with those in the National Health Survey of nursing homes, more research is needed to prepare medical personnel for the problems associated with a rapidly expanding population of elderly patients.", "PMID": 429729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_103", "title": "Drug utilization and prescribing patterns in a skilled nursing facility: the need for a rational approach to therapeutics.", "content": "A study was made of 50 patients drawn at random from a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) attended by seven physicians. For 59 percent of these patients, polypharmacy was practiced but no substantiating diagnoses were recorded. Approximately half of the drugs were administered pro re nata. More drugs were prescribed in potentially toxic dosages than in subtherapeutic dosages. The risk of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) was most often associated with anticholinergic agents, sedative-hypnotic drugs, and neuroleptics (thioridazine and chlorpromazine), particularly when prescribed concurrently. Risk of an ADR was highest when a drug was prescribed without recording a definite diagnostic indication. Lack of consistency by individual physicians in their approaches to the therapy of similar disease entities in comparable patients tended to support the concept of peer review in SNFs and also the need for teaching a rational approach to therapeutics in SNFs based on clinical pharmacology as applied to the elderly.", "contents": "Drug utilization and prescribing patterns in a skilled nursing facility: the need for a rational approach to therapeutics. A study was made of 50 patients drawn at random from a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) attended by seven physicians. For 59 percent of these patients, polypharmacy was practiced but no substantiating diagnoses were recorded. Approximately half of the drugs were administered pro re nata. More drugs were prescribed in potentially toxic dosages than in subtherapeutic dosages. The risk of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) was most often associated with anticholinergic agents, sedative-hypnotic drugs, and neuroleptics (thioridazine and chlorpromazine), particularly when prescribed concurrently. Risk of an ADR was highest when a drug was prescribed without recording a definite diagnostic indication. Lack of consistency by individual physicians in their approaches to the therapy of similar disease entities in comparable patients tended to support the concept of peer review in SNFs and also the need for teaching a rational approach to therapeutics in SNFs based on clinical pharmacology as applied to the elderly.", "PMID": 429730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_104", "title": "Simple primary tuberculosis in an elderly woman.", "content": "The diagnosis of primary tuberculous infection was made in a 78-year-old woman. The chest roentgenographic findings were remarkably similar to those often seen in children and adolescents with primary infection. Like the majority of adults with this entity, the patient was asymptomatic; the diagnosis was suspected epidemiologically and was confirmed by culture of M. tuberculosis from the sputum. As the incidence of new tuberculosis cases declines, the diagnosis of primary tuberculosis in the adult may be made more frequently.", "contents": "Simple primary tuberculosis in an elderly woman. The diagnosis of primary tuberculous infection was made in a 78-year-old woman. The chest roentgenographic findings were remarkably similar to those often seen in children and adolescents with primary infection. Like the majority of adults with this entity, the patient was asymptomatic; the diagnosis was suspected epidemiologically and was confirmed by culture of M. tuberculosis from the sputum. As the incidence of new tuberculosis cases declines, the diagnosis of primary tuberculosis in the adult may be made more frequently.", "PMID": 429731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_105", "title": "Senile confusion: assessment with a new stimulus recognition test.", "content": "There is a need for rapid and convenient assessment instruments to test the aged for senile confusion due to organic brain syndrome (OBS). The Mental Status Questionnaire (MSQ) and the Face-Hand Test (FHT) have certain limitations. A valid instrument must measure short-term memory loss and recognition. Sixty-two patients were examined in 17 different trials of the Stimulus Recognition Test (SRT), which involves 10 items. Each item classified the patients according to staff ratings (P less than .001), MSQ MSQ scores (P less than .005), and FHT scores (P less than .005). The composite MSQ score on a scale of 0--10 also served to separate the patients according to staff ratings (P less than .005). The SRT scores correlated .81 to .67 with the MSQ and FHT scores. The SRT does not show the same false positive patterns as the MSQ and FHT. For that reason, it constitutes a useful diagnostic supplement. Suggestions for further research are made.", "contents": "Senile confusion: assessment with a new stimulus recognition test. There is a need for rapid and convenient assessment instruments to test the aged for senile confusion due to organic brain syndrome (OBS). The Mental Status Questionnaire (MSQ) and the Face-Hand Test (FHT) have certain limitations. A valid instrument must measure short-term memory loss and recognition. Sixty-two patients were examined in 17 different trials of the Stimulus Recognition Test (SRT), which involves 10 items. Each item classified the patients according to staff ratings (P less than .001), MSQ MSQ scores (P less than .005), and FHT scores (P less than .005). The composite MSQ score on a scale of 0--10 also served to separate the patients according to staff ratings (P less than .005). The SRT scores correlated .81 to .67 with the MSQ and FHT scores. The SRT does not show the same false positive patterns as the MSQ and FHT. For that reason, it constitutes a useful diagnostic supplement. Suggestions for further research are made.", "PMID": 429732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_106", "title": "Institutionalized older adults and their future orientation.", "content": "This study hypothesized: 1) that as the duration of institutional living increases, the future orientation of active older adults contracts; and 2) that this constriction in future temporal orientation means less opportunity for interaction in the institutional environment. To test the first hypothesis, 100 active female residents in six institutions for the aged were evaluated regarding future orientation, by means of Cottle's Experiential Inventory. The opportunity for interaction was measured by Pincus's Psychosocial Dimensions in the Institutional Environment. The findings indicated that, irrespective of age, the residents became less future-oriented or their orientation became less recent, as the length of institutional residence increased. The second hypothesis was not supported; in fact, the reverse was true.", "contents": "Institutionalized older adults and their future orientation. This study hypothesized: 1) that as the duration of institutional living increases, the future orientation of active older adults contracts; and 2) that this constriction in future temporal orientation means less opportunity for interaction in the institutional environment. To test the first hypothesis, 100 active female residents in six institutions for the aged were evaluated regarding future orientation, by means of Cottle's Experiential Inventory. The opportunity for interaction was measured by Pincus's Psychosocial Dimensions in the Institutional Environment. The findings indicated that, irrespective of age, the residents became less future-oriented or their orientation became less recent, as the length of institutional residence increased. The second hypothesis was not supported; in fact, the reverse was true.", "PMID": 429733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_107", "title": "Systolic hypertension: occurrence and treatment in a defined community.", "content": "Systolic hypertension, a disorder occurring predominantly in the elderly, is associated with an increased incidence of stroke and coronary artery disease. Based on the supposition that it is a risk factor, many authorities have urged that it be treated. This report concerns an experience in treating systolic hypertension in a defined ambulatory population of 898 hypertensive subjects in a work-site program. The systolic hypertension group (N = 39) was compared with a matched diastolic hypertension group and with a matched systolic/diastolic hypertension group (N = 39 each). The patients with systolic hypertension responded to standard treatment (chiefly with diuretics), but less satisfactorily than did the patients with diastolic hypertension. Side effects or toxicity were uncommon and did not interfere with the therapeutic regimen. However, the ultimate value of such therapy in the prevention of vascular complications remains to be determined.", "contents": "Systolic hypertension: occurrence and treatment in a defined community. Systolic hypertension, a disorder occurring predominantly in the elderly, is associated with an increased incidence of stroke and coronary artery disease. Based on the supposition that it is a risk factor, many authorities have urged that it be treated. This report concerns an experience in treating systolic hypertension in a defined ambulatory population of 898 hypertensive subjects in a work-site program. The systolic hypertension group (N = 39) was compared with a matched diastolic hypertension group and with a matched systolic/diastolic hypertension group (N = 39 each). The patients with systolic hypertension responded to standard treatment (chiefly with diuretics), but less satisfactorily than did the patients with diastolic hypertension. Side effects or toxicity were uncommon and did not interfere with the therapeutic regimen. However, the ultimate value of such therapy in the prevention of vascular complications remains to be determined.", "PMID": 429734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_108", "title": "The elderly patient in the coronary care unit. I. Acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "In a Coronary Care Unit (CCU) with no age barrier for admission, 21 percent of the patients admitted in 1976 were aged 70 or older. Myocardial infarction was documented in 55 of 130 elderly patients. The overall incidence of arrhythmias was similar to that for younger patients. The mean duration of stay in the unit and the CCU mortality (9.1 percent) were similar in both elderly and younger patients, as was the in-hospital mortality rate. Of the patients who survived hospitalization, 75.6 percent were still living 18.1 months after the myocardial infarction. The elderly patient is as likely as the younger one to benefit from admission to a CCU.", "contents": "The elderly patient in the coronary care unit. I. Acute myocardial infarction. In a Coronary Care Unit (CCU) with no age barrier for admission, 21 percent of the patients admitted in 1976 were aged 70 or older. Myocardial infarction was documented in 55 of 130 elderly patients. The overall incidence of arrhythmias was similar to that for younger patients. The mean duration of stay in the unit and the CCU mortality (9.1 percent) were similar in both elderly and younger patients, as was the in-hospital mortality rate. Of the patients who survived hospitalization, 75.6 percent were still living 18.1 months after the myocardial infarction. The elderly patient is as likely as the younger one to benefit from admission to a CCU.", "PMID": 429735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_109", "title": "A psychogeriatric assessment program. V. Three-year follow-up.", "content": "In 1974, a 10-month diagnostic evaluation of 80 newly admitted psychogeriatric patients was undertaken. The diagnostic categories were functional versus organic brain disease. The present report deals with results of a follow-up evaluation three years later. To assess the prognostic validity of our measures, the initial 1974 data on survivor and nonsurvivor groups were studied, and some of the tests were repeated in 35 of the 40 survivors. Statistically significant differences between survivors and nonsurvivors were found in both \"organic\" and \"functional\" groups, with respect to performance on psychologic and psychophysiologic tests, and the level of social functioning before admission. The death rate was significantly higher in the group with organic disease.", "contents": "A psychogeriatric assessment program. V. Three-year follow-up. In 1974, a 10-month diagnostic evaluation of 80 newly admitted psychogeriatric patients was undertaken. The diagnostic categories were functional versus organic brain disease. The present report deals with results of a follow-up evaluation three years later. To assess the prognostic validity of our measures, the initial 1974 data on survivor and nonsurvivor groups were studied, and some of the tests were repeated in 35 of the 40 survivors. Statistically significant differences between survivors and nonsurvivors were found in both \"organic\" and \"functional\" groups, with respect to performance on psychologic and psychophysiologic tests, and the level of social functioning before admission. The death rate was significantly higher in the group with organic disease.", "PMID": 429737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_110", "title": "Rheumatoid arthritis in the elderly, presenting as polymyalgia rheumatica.", "content": "Two elderly patients presented with generalized aches and pains (particularly in the shoulders and the pelvic girdle), stiffness, fatigue, anemia, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, but there were no signs or symptoms directly referable to the joints. Two and five months later respectively, pain, swelling, and signs of synovitis appeared in several joints in a symmetrical pattern, and a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis was made. Rheumatoid arthritis in the elderly may resemble polymyalgia rheumatica. On the other hand, synovitis in many patients with polymyalgia rheumatica may resemble rheumatoid arthritis. In the elderly, the differentiation of these two entities may be difficult. Moreover, patients initially presenting with the signs and symptoms of polymyalgia may eventually manifest typical rheumatoid arthritis.", "contents": "Rheumatoid arthritis in the elderly, presenting as polymyalgia rheumatica. Two elderly patients presented with generalized aches and pains (particularly in the shoulders and the pelvic girdle), stiffness, fatigue, anemia, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, but there were no signs or symptoms directly referable to the joints. Two and five months later respectively, pain, swelling, and signs of synovitis appeared in several joints in a symmetrical pattern, and a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis was made. Rheumatoid arthritis in the elderly may resemble polymyalgia rheumatica. On the other hand, synovitis in many patients with polymyalgia rheumatica may resemble rheumatoid arthritis. In the elderly, the differentiation of these two entities may be difficult. Moreover, patients initially presenting with the signs and symptoms of polymyalgia may eventually manifest typical rheumatoid arthritis.", "PMID": 429738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_111", "title": "Attitudes of health workers toward old people.", "content": "The Tuckman-Lorge Questionnaire was used to study the attitudes of three groups of health workers toward old people and to test their acceptance of geriatric stereotypes. The health workers tested were medical students, housestaff members, and members of a mobile psychogeriatric screening team. Many significant differences were found between and within the groups tested, as well as between male and female subjects. The female housestaff had extremely high and significantly different scores from all other groups. The geriatric staff adhered least to the stereotypes. The results are discussed in the framework that the attitudes of care givers are directly related to the quality of the care provided. It is hypothesized that female housestaff members have special difficulties with role conflicts that cause them to adhere to stereotypes of the aged. The milieu of geriatric treatment, rather than knowledge of statistics about old people, is the most effective background for positive changes in attitudes toward the elderly.", "contents": "Attitudes of health workers toward old people. The Tuckman-Lorge Questionnaire was used to study the attitudes of three groups of health workers toward old people and to test their acceptance of geriatric stereotypes. The health workers tested were medical students, housestaff members, and members of a mobile psychogeriatric screening team. Many significant differences were found between and within the groups tested, as well as between male and female subjects. The female housestaff had extremely high and significantly different scores from all other groups. The geriatric staff adhered least to the stereotypes. The results are discussed in the framework that the attitudes of care givers are directly related to the quality of the care provided. It is hypothesized that female housestaff members have special difficulties with role conflicts that cause them to adhere to stereotypes of the aged. The milieu of geriatric treatment, rather than knowledge of statistics about old people, is the most effective background for positive changes in attitudes toward the elderly.", "PMID": 429739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_112", "title": "The elderly patient in the coronary care unit. II. Incidence and treatment of arrhythmias.", "content": "In 1976, 130 patients aged 70 or older were admitted to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) at Toronto Western Hospital. Arrhythmias were noted in all but 24 percent. Digoxin was given to 53 patients, lidocaine to 24, propranolol to 28, and quinidine to 11. In 2 patients, cardioversion by direct current was required for supraventricular arrhythmias. In 26 patients, temporary pacemakers were used. Of 13 patients who experienced at least one cardiac arrest in the CCU, 10 survived to be discharged to the ward. In total, only 12 of the 130 elderly patients died in the hospital, and in only 3 of these was arrhythmia the primary cause of death. The treatment of arrhythmias in the elderly is as successful and rewarding as in younger patients. Indications for the various antiarrhythmic drugs are similar. Except for digoxin, the dosages of such drugs for the elderly are the same as those for younger patients. Adverse effects apparently are not more common in the elderly.", "contents": "The elderly patient in the coronary care unit. II. Incidence and treatment of arrhythmias. In 1976, 130 patients aged 70 or older were admitted to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) at Toronto Western Hospital. Arrhythmias were noted in all but 24 percent. Digoxin was given to 53 patients, lidocaine to 24, propranolol to 28, and quinidine to 11. In 2 patients, cardioversion by direct current was required for supraventricular arrhythmias. In 26 patients, temporary pacemakers were used. Of 13 patients who experienced at least one cardiac arrest in the CCU, 10 survived to be discharged to the ward. In total, only 12 of the 130 elderly patients died in the hospital, and in only 3 of these was arrhythmia the primary cause of death. The treatment of arrhythmias in the elderly is as successful and rewarding as in younger patients. Indications for the various antiarrhythmic drugs are similar. Except for digoxin, the dosages of such drugs for the elderly are the same as those for younger patients. Adverse effects apparently are not more common in the elderly.", "PMID": 429740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_113", "title": "Emergency transvenous (subclavian) cardiac pacing in elderly patients.", "content": "Emergency transvenous cardiac pacing can be performed in elderly patients rapidly, effectively, and with few complications. An experienced physician using the subclavian route usually can achieve effective pacing with equipment priced well within the budget of most community hospitals. Data on 36 patients (age range, 75-94 years) are presented.", "contents": "Emergency transvenous (subclavian) cardiac pacing in elderly patients. Emergency transvenous cardiac pacing can be performed in elderly patients rapidly, effectively, and with few complications. An experienced physician using the subclavian route usually can achieve effective pacing with equipment priced well within the budget of most community hospitals. Data on 36 patients (age range, 75-94 years) are presented.", "PMID": 429741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_114", "title": "Behavioral improvement in long-term geriatric patients during an age-integrated psychosocial rehabilitation program.", "content": "A study was made of the effects of a psychosocial rehabilitative program on the behavioral functioning of elderly chronically ill patients. High school students served as remotivation and socialization therapists in a supervised structured process designed to improve the quality of life for the participating nursing-home residents. The participants were 12 long-term patients whose ages ranged from 62 to 99 years (mean, 73.2 years). The effectiveness of the program was evaluated by means of the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP), a questionnaire designed to assess the effect of a physical illness on daily activities, psychosocial skills and mental status. The results demonstrated that the rehabilitative program had a significant impact on several dimensions of the lives of the participants. As a consequence of the interaction with the students, there was an increase in social interaction, a reduction in daytime sleeping and an increase in mobility. The results reported here extend the successful use of remotivation techniques to areas of overt behavioral functioning not previously assessed.", "contents": "Behavioral improvement in long-term geriatric patients during an age-integrated psychosocial rehabilitation program. A study was made of the effects of a psychosocial rehabilitative program on the behavioral functioning of elderly chronically ill patients. High school students served as remotivation and socialization therapists in a supervised structured process designed to improve the quality of life for the participating nursing-home residents. The participants were 12 long-term patients whose ages ranged from 62 to 99 years (mean, 73.2 years). The effectiveness of the program was evaluated by means of the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP), a questionnaire designed to assess the effect of a physical illness on daily activities, psychosocial skills and mental status. The results demonstrated that the rehabilitative program had a significant impact on several dimensions of the lives of the participants. As a consequence of the interaction with the students, there was an increase in social interaction, a reduction in daytime sleeping and an increase in mobility. The results reported here extend the successful use of remotivation techniques to areas of overt behavioral functioning not previously assessed.", "PMID": 429742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_115", "title": "Prosopo-affective agnosia as a symptom of cerebral organic disease.", "content": "A previously described test for prosopo-affective agnosia (impairment of facial affect recognition) had been applied in 14 disoriented elderly patients with chronic organic brain syndrome, 14 fully oriented elderly patients with non-organic psychiatric disorders, and 14 normal volunteers. In this re-test study of 37 of the 42 subjects, after a six-month interval, the test was found to be reliable (r = .75, p less than .001). The test was also more sensitive in detecting organic disorders than were other frequently applied neuropsychiatric tests. Prosopo-affective agnosia (PAA) appeared unrelated to prosopo-agnosia (PA) (r = .082, ns). Some patients who had the ability to recognize famous faces and faces of ward personnel were severely impaired in the ability to recognize facial affect. The deterioration was more pronounced for the recognition of sadness and anger than for happiness, indicating that patients with this impairment had reverted to an infantile mode of facial-affect recognition. This reversal is another example of the neurologic regression that characterizes dementia.", "contents": "Prosopo-affective agnosia as a symptom of cerebral organic disease. A previously described test for prosopo-affective agnosia (impairment of facial affect recognition) had been applied in 14 disoriented elderly patients with chronic organic brain syndrome, 14 fully oriented elderly patients with non-organic psychiatric disorders, and 14 normal volunteers. In this re-test study of 37 of the 42 subjects, after a six-month interval, the test was found to be reliable (r = .75, p less than .001). The test was also more sensitive in detecting organic disorders than were other frequently applied neuropsychiatric tests. Prosopo-affective agnosia (PAA) appeared unrelated to prosopo-agnosia (PA) (r = .082, ns). Some patients who had the ability to recognize famous faces and faces of ward personnel were severely impaired in the ability to recognize facial affect. The deterioration was more pronounced for the recognition of sadness and anger than for happiness, indicating that patients with this impairment had reverted to an infantile mode of facial-affect recognition. This reversal is another example of the neurologic regression that characterizes dementia.", "PMID": 429743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_116", "title": "Cardiovascular side effects of long-term therapy with tricyclic antidepressants in the aged.", "content": "In a study to determine the nature and frequency of cardiac side effects during long-term administration of tricyclic antidepressant drugs in usual dosages in the aged, 32 geriatric patients were followed for an average of 36.6 weeks. Ten of them received amitriptyline in a daily dosage of 20-75 mg for 53 weeks (average); in 2, electrocardiographic side effects developed, viz, inversion of the T waves or evidence of acute coronary insufficiency. Imipramine was administered to 21 patients in a daily dosage of 20-100 mg (average, 66 mg) over a period of 40 weeks; in 3 instances major side effects developed--intermittent left bundle-branch block, acute coronary insufficiency with node dysfunction, or T-wave inversion with sinus tachycardia; in 1 instance there was a minor side effect, viz, tachycardia only. In 1 patient, acute myocardial infarction developed after two 10-mg doses of nortriptyline. Five of the 7 patients with cardiac side effects had prior organic heart disease. It was concluded that the incidence of cardiac side effects in aged persons given tricyclic antidepressant drugs in the usual therapeutic dosages for a prolonged period is great enough to warrant frequent careful monitoring of cardiac status during therapy.", "contents": "Cardiovascular side effects of long-term therapy with tricyclic antidepressants in the aged. In a study to determine the nature and frequency of cardiac side effects during long-term administration of tricyclic antidepressant drugs in usual dosages in the aged, 32 geriatric patients were followed for an average of 36.6 weeks. Ten of them received amitriptyline in a daily dosage of 20-75 mg for 53 weeks (average); in 2, electrocardiographic side effects developed, viz, inversion of the T waves or evidence of acute coronary insufficiency. Imipramine was administered to 21 patients in a daily dosage of 20-100 mg (average, 66 mg) over a period of 40 weeks; in 3 instances major side effects developed--intermittent left bundle-branch block, acute coronary insufficiency with node dysfunction, or T-wave inversion with sinus tachycardia; in 1 instance there was a minor side effect, viz, tachycardia only. In 1 patient, acute myocardial infarction developed after two 10-mg doses of nortriptyline. Five of the 7 patients with cardiac side effects had prior organic heart disease. It was concluded that the incidence of cardiac side effects in aged persons given tricyclic antidepressant drugs in the usual therapeutic dosages for a prolonged period is great enough to warrant frequent careful monitoring of cardiac status during therapy.", "PMID": 429744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_117", "title": "Degradation of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in aerobic and anaerobic soil.", "content": "Aerobic and anaerobic degradation of 14C-labeled pentachlorophenol (PCP) was examined in nitrogen aerated, moist Hagerstown silty clay loam with or without cellulose amendments. In anaerobic soil, PCP reduced soil respiration in the presence of cellulose; volatilization losses accounted for only 0.5% of the PCP added to soil; no 14CO2 was detected; and organic solvent extractable radioactivity was the same from all treatments. Gas and thin-layer chromatographic analysis of the soil extracts showed the presence of pentachloroanisole in both aerobic and anaerobic soils. 2,3,5,6- and 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorophenols and 2,3,6-trichlorophenol were also detected as degradation products by gas chromatography after methylation. Further degradation of pentachloroanisole was examined in both aerobic and anaerobic soils.", "contents": "Degradation of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in aerobic and anaerobic soil. Aerobic and anaerobic degradation of 14C-labeled pentachlorophenol (PCP) was examined in nitrogen aerated, moist Hagerstown silty clay loam with or without cellulose amendments. In anaerobic soil, PCP reduced soil respiration in the presence of cellulose; volatilization losses accounted for only 0.5% of the PCP added to soil; no 14CO2 was detected; and organic solvent extractable radioactivity was the same from all treatments. Gas and thin-layer chromatographic analysis of the soil extracts showed the presence of pentachloroanisole in both aerobic and anaerobic soils. 2,3,5,6- and 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorophenols and 2,3,6-trichlorophenol were also detected as degradation products by gas chromatography after methylation. Further degradation of pentachloroanisole was examined in both aerobic and anaerobic soils.", "PMID": 429757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_118", "title": "Fluorescence detection and determination of patulin by thin-layer chromatography of its aniline imine.", "content": "A sensitive and simple procedure is descrobed for the analysis of the mycotoxin patulin. The method involves extraction of patulin from the sample, silica gel column chromatographic clean-up, preparation of the aniline imine, thin-layer chromatographic separation on silica gel, hydrogen chloride hydrolysis of the imine, and fluorophore formation from the liberated aniline with fluorescamine. A linear calibration curve was obtained for the 10-100 ng range and the limit of detection was 5 ng. Recoveries of patulin from samples of apple juice spiked at 50-500 ppb were quantitative.", "contents": "Fluorescence detection and determination of patulin by thin-layer chromatography of its aniline imine. A sensitive and simple procedure is descrobed for the analysis of the mycotoxin patulin. The method involves extraction of patulin from the sample, silica gel column chromatographic clean-up, preparation of the aniline imine, thin-layer chromatographic separation on silica gel, hydrogen chloride hydrolysis of the imine, and fluorophore formation from the liberated aniline with fluorescamine. A linear calibration curve was obtained for the 10-100 ng range and the limit of detection was 5 ng. Recoveries of patulin from samples of apple juice spiked at 50-500 ppb were quantitative.", "PMID": 429758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_119", "title": "Occupational effect of phosfolan insecticide on spraymen during field exposure.", "content": "Phosfolan (Cyolane), 2-(diethoxy phosphinylimino)-1,3-dithiolane is one of the widely used insecticides in Egypt specially to protect cotton plants. The hazard of exposure of the spray workers team in the field was estimated in terms of the amount of Phosfolan insecticide retained on workmen body pads during field spraying. The health effect of such exposure was determined through recording of the AChE inhibition in the red blood cells at different intervals after exposure. The calculated percentage of the toxic dose received per every spraying day for each worker varied with the type of job in the range of 0.008 to 0.03 percent. The body of the mixer received the maximum exposure with 10 to 12 fold that of the assistants. The highly exposed group of workers suffered from 31 to 44 percent RBC's AChE inhibition. About half of the inhibited enzyme activity recovered after 48 hours. Then it took more than 3-4 weeks to reach complete recovery. Thus the RBC's AChE activity can be recommended as a criterion for the level of exposure to organophosphorous insecticides.", "contents": "Occupational effect of phosfolan insecticide on spraymen during field exposure. Phosfolan (Cyolane), 2-(diethoxy phosphinylimino)-1,3-dithiolane is one of the widely used insecticides in Egypt specially to protect cotton plants. The hazard of exposure of the spray workers team in the field was estimated in terms of the amount of Phosfolan insecticide retained on workmen body pads during field spraying. The health effect of such exposure was determined through recording of the AChE inhibition in the red blood cells at different intervals after exposure. The calculated percentage of the toxic dose received per every spraying day for each worker varied with the type of job in the range of 0.008 to 0.03 percent. The body of the mixer received the maximum exposure with 10 to 12 fold that of the assistants. The highly exposed group of workers suffered from 31 to 44 percent RBC's AChE inhibition. About half of the inhibited enzyme activity recovered after 48 hours. Then it took more than 3-4 weeks to reach complete recovery. Thus the RBC's AChE activity can be recommended as a criterion for the level of exposure to organophosphorous insecticides.", "PMID": 429759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_120", "title": "Cyanide residue levels in extracted honey, comb honey and wax cappings.", "content": "Cyanide (CN) residue levels were determined in samples of extracted honey, comb honey and was cappings at 1 hr, 24 hr, and 48 hr intervals after destroying the bees in honey bee colonies with normal (ca. 8.5 g) and twice normal (ca. 17 g) doses of CyanogasR A-dust. Applications of CyanogasR A-dust, administered by means of a dust pump at normal and twice normal doses, gave an average residue of 0.01 and 0.04 microgram CN/g of extracted honey, 0.01 and 0.02 microgram CN/g of comb honey and 0.04 and 0.06 microgram CN/g of wax cappings, respectively. When the CyanogasR A-dust (ca. 17 g) was placed on a tray and placed on the bottom board of the hive, the average residue levels for extracted honey, comb honey and wax cappings were less than 0.004, 0.01 and 0.02 microgram CN/g, respectively. Random honey samples from beekeepers, who used CyanogasR to destroy bees, had a median level of 0.031 microgram CN/g, whereas honey from a packing plant and other commercial samples contained less than 0.004--0.026, median less than 0.004 microgram CN/g. Based on residue data from this study, the temporary registration for CyanogasR, to kill honey bees after crop removal, was revised to a full registration in May 1977.", "contents": "Cyanide residue levels in extracted honey, comb honey and wax cappings. Cyanide (CN) residue levels were determined in samples of extracted honey, comb honey and was cappings at 1 hr, 24 hr, and 48 hr intervals after destroying the bees in honey bee colonies with normal (ca. 8.5 g) and twice normal (ca. 17 g) doses of CyanogasR A-dust. Applications of CyanogasR A-dust, administered by means of a dust pump at normal and twice normal doses, gave an average residue of 0.01 and 0.04 microgram CN/g of extracted honey, 0.01 and 0.02 microgram CN/g of comb honey and 0.04 and 0.06 microgram CN/g of wax cappings, respectively. When the CyanogasR A-dust (ca. 17 g) was placed on a tray and placed on the bottom board of the hive, the average residue levels for extracted honey, comb honey and wax cappings were less than 0.004, 0.01 and 0.02 microgram CN/g, respectively. Random honey samples from beekeepers, who used CyanogasR to destroy bees, had a median level of 0.031 microgram CN/g, whereas honey from a packing plant and other commercial samples contained less than 0.004--0.026, median less than 0.004 microgram CN/g. Based on residue data from this study, the temporary registration for CyanogasR, to kill honey bees after crop removal, was revised to a full registration in May 1977.", "PMID": 429760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_121", "title": "Sequential participation of glutathione and sulph-hydryl(s) in reductive dechlorination of 2,4-di-, and 2,4,5-trichloro phenacyl chlorides by soluble fraction (105,000 x g) of chicken liver homogenate.", "content": "The mode of reductive dechlorination of alpha-chloroacetophenones, 2,4-di-, and 2,4,5-trichloro phenacyl chlorides into respective acetophenone by soluble fraction (105,000 x g) from chicken liver homogenate has been investigated. The transformation involved the sequential participation of glutathione and a sulph-hydryl. The phenacyl chloride first reacted with glutathione to yield the phenacyl glutathione, which in turn, in the presence of a sulph-hydryl, was reduced enzymatically to produce the ketone, probably via a disulfide intermediate.", "contents": "Sequential participation of glutathione and sulph-hydryl(s) in reductive dechlorination of 2,4-di-, and 2,4,5-trichloro phenacyl chlorides by soluble fraction (105,000 x g) of chicken liver homogenate. The mode of reductive dechlorination of alpha-chloroacetophenones, 2,4-di-, and 2,4,5-trichloro phenacyl chlorides into respective acetophenone by soluble fraction (105,000 x g) from chicken liver homogenate has been investigated. The transformation involved the sequential participation of glutathione and a sulph-hydryl. The phenacyl chloride first reacted with glutathione to yield the phenacyl glutathione, which in turn, in the presence of a sulph-hydryl, was reduced enzymatically to produce the ketone, probably via a disulfide intermediate.", "PMID": 429761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_122", "title": "Heavy metals in Ras Beirut prawns and sea urchin eggs.", "content": "Whole samples of Palaemon elegans Rathke, 1837 and eggs of Paracentrotus lividus Lamarck, 1816 were collected on the coast of Ras Beirut, Lebanon in the summer and fall of 1977 and the spring of 1978. All were analysed for lead, cadmium, copper and other heavy metals. Lead concentrations in both the prawns and sea urchin eggs appeared to be highest in the summer and lowest in the spring, whereas cadmium was low in all seasons with only a few elevated readings. The strongest tendency towards seasonal variation was seen in the copper levels of the prawns, which were high in summer, much lower in fall, and then high again in spring. Results of the analyses for nickel, iron, zinc and chromium are also discussed. Of the various possible sources of heavy metals in the Ras Beirut coastal area, untreated sewage, pesticide residues, and automobile exhaust are the most important.", "contents": "Heavy metals in Ras Beirut prawns and sea urchin eggs. Whole samples of Palaemon elegans Rathke, 1837 and eggs of Paracentrotus lividus Lamarck, 1816 were collected on the coast of Ras Beirut, Lebanon in the summer and fall of 1977 and the spring of 1978. All were analysed for lead, cadmium, copper and other heavy metals. Lead concentrations in both the prawns and sea urchin eggs appeared to be highest in the summer and lowest in the spring, whereas cadmium was low in all seasons with only a few elevated readings. The strongest tendency towards seasonal variation was seen in the copper levels of the prawns, which were high in summer, much lower in fall, and then high again in spring. Results of the analyses for nickel, iron, zinc and chromium are also discussed. Of the various possible sources of heavy metals in the Ras Beirut coastal area, untreated sewage, pesticide residues, and automobile exhaust are the most important.", "PMID": 429762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_123", "title": "Studies on saprozoonosis. I. A survey on Aspergillus species with special reference to occupational habits.", "content": "A comprehensive survey of Aspergillus species has been carried out among different cattle and donkey handlers. A total of 300 pharyngeal swabs of different subjects including 100 control and 100 each from cattle and donkey handlers was investigated. All the subjects were found healthy. Among the species of Aspergillus, the number of A. flavus appeared higher followed by A. fumigatus, still lower number was encountered with other species like A. nidulans and A. glaucus. In order to establish the saprozoonotic relationship, soil and air samples of various animal sheds were also analyzed. It was found that the total number of isolates of Aspergillus species from animal sheds were always higher compared to the control samples. None of the A. flavus strains obtained from air samples produced aflatoxin. Histopathological changes in Swiss mice caused by intratail vein administration of spores of Aspergillus species have been investigated.", "contents": "Studies on saprozoonosis. I. A survey on Aspergillus species with special reference to occupational habits. A comprehensive survey of Aspergillus species has been carried out among different cattle and donkey handlers. A total of 300 pharyngeal swabs of different subjects including 100 control and 100 each from cattle and donkey handlers was investigated. All the subjects were found healthy. Among the species of Aspergillus, the number of A. flavus appeared higher followed by A. fumigatus, still lower number was encountered with other species like A. nidulans and A. glaucus. In order to establish the saprozoonotic relationship, soil and air samples of various animal sheds were also analyzed. It was found that the total number of isolates of Aspergillus species from animal sheds were always higher compared to the control samples. None of the A. flavus strains obtained from air samples produced aflatoxin. Histopathological changes in Swiss mice caused by intratail vein administration of spores of Aspergillus species have been investigated.", "PMID": 429763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_124", "title": "DNA synthesis in the human diploid cell strain WI-38 during in vitro aging: an autoradiography study.", "content": "The percent of cells in a WI-38 cell population which did not incorporate tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) was determined by autoradiography from the measurement of percent nonlabeled nuclei and the ratio of total cell numbers at the initiation and at the termination of exposure to 3H-TdR. This percentage was minimally affected by factors influencing the proliferation of labeled cells, but was dependent on the population doubling level (PDL). The results suggest the presence, in a proliferating WI-38 population, of subpopulation(s) with an extremely slow rate of S phase entrance. The parameter was useful in estimating, empirically, the doubling potential of a cell population.", "contents": "DNA synthesis in the human diploid cell strain WI-38 during in vitro aging: an autoradiography study. The percent of cells in a WI-38 cell population which did not incorporate tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) was determined by autoradiography from the measurement of percent nonlabeled nuclei and the ratio of total cell numbers at the initiation and at the termination of exposure to 3H-TdR. This percentage was minimally affected by factors influencing the proliferation of labeled cells, but was dependent on the population doubling level (PDL). The results suggest the presence, in a proliferating WI-38 population, of subpopulation(s) with an extremely slow rate of S phase entrance. The parameter was useful in estimating, empirically, the doubling potential of a cell population.", "PMID": 429764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_125", "title": "Senescent human diploid cells in culture: survival, DNA synthesis and morphology.", "content": "Senescent human diploid cell cultures (WI-38 and WI-26) were studied during Phase III for survival time, ability to synthesize DNA, and nuclear morphology. Periodic transfers made during a 6-month period of Phase III showed that cultures were maintained with only slight variations in cell number. No sign of spontaneous acquisition of infinite proliferative potential was observed. The increase in the number of multinucleated cells found during the period of observation showed that progressive changes occur in Phase III. A certain proportion of cells maintained the ability to incorporate tritiated thymidine throughout the period of observation.", "contents": "Senescent human diploid cells in culture: survival, DNA synthesis and morphology. Senescent human diploid cell cultures (WI-38 and WI-26) were studied during Phase III for survival time, ability to synthesize DNA, and nuclear morphology. Periodic transfers made during a 6-month period of Phase III showed that cultures were maintained with only slight variations in cell number. No sign of spontaneous acquisition of infinite proliferative potential was observed. The increase in the number of multinucleated cells found during the period of observation showed that progressive changes occur in Phase III. A certain proportion of cells maintained the ability to incorporate tritiated thymidine throughout the period of observation.", "PMID": 429765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_126", "title": "Apposition of uterine luminal epithelium during implantation in senescent golden hamsters.", "content": "Closure of the uterine luminal epithelium was examined with light and electron microscopy in 3 to 5-month-old and 14 to 15-month-old golden hamsters at 3 1/2, 4, and 4 1/2 days of pregnancy. Apposition of the uterine luminal epithelium and the subsequent changes occurring during the early stages of implantation were delayed approximately 12 hrs in senescent females. However, the sequence of events and the degree to which the uterine epithelium closed and made contact with implanting blastocysts were similar in both age groups. It does not appear that closure of the uterine luminal epithelium or blastocyst attachment to the epithelium is impaired in 14 to 15-month-old hamsters but that other factors are responsible for the declining litter size.", "contents": "Apposition of uterine luminal epithelium during implantation in senescent golden hamsters. Closure of the uterine luminal epithelium was examined with light and electron microscopy in 3 to 5-month-old and 14 to 15-month-old golden hamsters at 3 1/2, 4, and 4 1/2 days of pregnancy. Apposition of the uterine luminal epithelium and the subsequent changes occurring during the early stages of implantation were delayed approximately 12 hrs in senescent females. However, the sequence of events and the degree to which the uterine epithelium closed and made contact with implanting blastocysts were similar in both age groups. It does not appear that closure of the uterine luminal epithelium or blastocyst attachment to the epithelium is impaired in 14 to 15-month-old hamsters but that other factors are responsible for the declining litter size.", "PMID": 429766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_127", "title": "The aging human cerebral cortex: a stereological characterization of changes in the capillary net.", "content": "Capillaries in the cerebral cortex of six age groups, ranging between 19 and 94 years (= 34 human brains) were stereologically investigated. Capillary parameters such as diameter, volume fraction, specific surface area, mean intercapillary distances and total length per unit cortex volume in patients older than 75 years were similar to those in young ones, 19 to 44 years old. Aged subjects between 64 and 74 years revealed increased capillary diameter, volume and total length per unit cortex volume, as well as decreased specific surface area. Frequency distributions in the same age indicate a real increase of capillary diameter and volume, as also an increase of these parameters on the level of blood vessels with diamteres greater than 8 micrometer, probably arterioles. The results of this study argue against the wide-spread assumption of a decreased blood supply in the cerebral cortex during old age. On the contrary, the capillary net is able to respond to changed metabolism and blood pressure.", "contents": "The aging human cerebral cortex: a stereological characterization of changes in the capillary net. Capillaries in the cerebral cortex of six age groups, ranging between 19 and 94 years (= 34 human brains) were stereologically investigated. Capillary parameters such as diameter, volume fraction, specific surface area, mean intercapillary distances and total length per unit cortex volume in patients older than 75 years were similar to those in young ones, 19 to 44 years old. Aged subjects between 64 and 74 years revealed increased capillary diameter, volume and total length per unit cortex volume, as well as decreased specific surface area. Frequency distributions in the same age indicate a real increase of capillary diameter and volume, as also an increase of these parameters on the level of blood vessels with diamteres greater than 8 micrometer, probably arterioles. The results of this study argue against the wide-spread assumption of a decreased blood supply in the cerebral cortex during old age. On the contrary, the capillary net is able to respond to changed metabolism and blood pressure.", "PMID": 429767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_128", "title": "A multivariate study of psychogeriatric readmissions.", "content": "Clinical, demographic and psychosocial items of information were gathered on two samples of 41 single admission cases and 42 readmissions among a population of psychogeriatric patients. Discrominant function analysis indicated that different variables are predictive of readmission for females and males. A discriminant classification procedure demonstrated that contact with family, age and level of education are significant predictors of readmission (93% classification success) for males in the sample, while different factors, community involvement, type of treatment and follow-up, do not attain significance for women.", "contents": "A multivariate study of psychogeriatric readmissions. Clinical, demographic and psychosocial items of information were gathered on two samples of 41 single admission cases and 42 readmissions among a population of psychogeriatric patients. Discrominant function analysis indicated that different variables are predictive of readmission for females and males. A discriminant classification procedure demonstrated that contact with family, age and level of education are significant predictors of readmission (93% classification success) for males in the sample, while different factors, community involvement, type of treatment and follow-up, do not attain significance for women.", "PMID": 429768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_129", "title": "A study of age categorization.", "content": "This study used photo (stimulus persons) to explore age categorization in a sample of 150 subjects of diverse ages: 15 males and 15 females in each of five age groups: 18--21, 22--28, 29--38, 39--55, and 56--76. Two sets of 33 photos each (a male and a female set) were presented to subjects for chronological age estimation, age categorization (as adolescent, young, middle-aged, elderly, and aged adult), and preference. Results indicated considerable overlapping of estimated ages across age categories, suggesting that the boundaries between adjacent age stages are highly permeable. Sex-of-photo exerted a major influence on categorization and preference. Female, relative to male, stimulus persons were assigned to older age categories, were perceived to attain middle-aged and elderly status sooner, and were younger when chosen as most preferred (but only for male subjects). These sex-bias effects were mitigated in the oldest respondent. Relevance of the present research to problems of age stereotyping is discussed.", "contents": "A study of age categorization. This study used photo (stimulus persons) to explore age categorization in a sample of 150 subjects of diverse ages: 15 males and 15 females in each of five age groups: 18--21, 22--28, 29--38, 39--55, and 56--76. Two sets of 33 photos each (a male and a female set) were presented to subjects for chronological age estimation, age categorization (as adolescent, young, middle-aged, elderly, and aged adult), and preference. Results indicated considerable overlapping of estimated ages across age categories, suggesting that the boundaries between adjacent age stages are highly permeable. Sex-of-photo exerted a major influence on categorization and preference. Female, relative to male, stimulus persons were assigned to older age categories, were perceived to attain middle-aged and elderly status sooner, and were younger when chosen as most preferred (but only for male subjects). These sex-bias effects were mitigated in the oldest respondent. Relevance of the present research to problems of age stereotyping is discussed.", "PMID": 429769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_130", "title": "The effect of deviations from stereotyped expectations upon attitudes toward older persons.", "content": "Subjects read an interview in which either a 36-year-old or a 76-year-old widow talked about her life and discussed how she had spent the previous day; they then recorded their impressions of the woman and rated her on a number of scales. Contrary to expectations, subjects rated the older woman significantly more favorably than the younger woman, even when her behavior corresponded to negative stereotypes of older person. Evidence from subjects' written impressions and spontaneous comments indicated that an older person who is alert, interesting, and involved is perceived as deviating from stereotyped expectations and is evaluated more positively than a younger person who exhibits these same characteristics. This may account for the fact that perceivers consistently view specific older persons as exceptional, even while they retain negative stereotypes of older people in general.", "contents": "The effect of deviations from stereotyped expectations upon attitudes toward older persons. Subjects read an interview in which either a 36-year-old or a 76-year-old widow talked about her life and discussed how she had spent the previous day; they then recorded their impressions of the woman and rated her on a number of scales. Contrary to expectations, subjects rated the older woman significantly more favorably than the younger woman, even when her behavior corresponded to negative stereotypes of older person. Evidence from subjects' written impressions and spontaneous comments indicated that an older person who is alert, interesting, and involved is perceived as deviating from stereotyped expectations and is evaluated more positively than a younger person who exhibits these same characteristics. This may account for the fact that perceivers consistently view specific older persons as exceptional, even while they retain negative stereotypes of older people in general.", "PMID": 429770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_131", "title": "Adult age differences in free recall as a function of basis of organization and method of presentation.", "content": "To examine age-related differences in the discovery of intralist relationships, young and elderly adults were presented a free-recall list in either the conventional successive single-item format or in a whole-list display. A list that could be organized by associative or rhyming intralist relationships was used to test the levels-of-processing model of memory as an explanation of age differences in recall. Young adults recalled more base-words, associates, and rhymes than elderly subjects on immediate free and cued tests and on an uncued test one week later. Elderly subjects showed less utilization of both semantic and nonsemantic intralist relationships. Age did not interact with method of presentation. Recall and organization deficits occurred for elderly adults even though they were less anxious than young adults.", "contents": "Adult age differences in free recall as a function of basis of organization and method of presentation. To examine age-related differences in the discovery of intralist relationships, young and elderly adults were presented a free-recall list in either the conventional successive single-item format or in a whole-list display. A list that could be organized by associative or rhyming intralist relationships was used to test the levels-of-processing model of memory as an explanation of age differences in recall. Young adults recalled more base-words, associates, and rhymes than elderly subjects on immediate free and cued tests and on an uncued test one week later. Elderly subjects showed less utilization of both semantic and nonsemantic intralist relationships. Age did not interact with method of presentation. Recall and organization deficits occurred for elderly adults even though they were less anxious than young adults.", "PMID": 429771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_132", "title": "The interaction between age and list length in free recall.", "content": "Using the \"delayed-recall\" procedure developed by Shiffrin (1970), the effects of list length on encoding, storage, and retrieval processes in different aged subjects were assessed. The length of a list interpolated in the retention interval did not interact with age, while an interaction was found between age and the length of list being recalled. Age differences in the probability of recall decreased as the length of the list being recalled increased. This interaction was replicated in a second experiment with immediate recall. This interaction seems most compatible with the hypothesis that older persons use less spontaneous organization during list learning. List length primarily disrupts the ability of younger subjects to develop adequate organizational plans (2.e., longer lists are more difficult to organize), and because older subjects are organizing less, they are less affected by the increases in list length.", "contents": "The interaction between age and list length in free recall. Using the \"delayed-recall\" procedure developed by Shiffrin (1970), the effects of list length on encoding, storage, and retrieval processes in different aged subjects were assessed. The length of a list interpolated in the retention interval did not interact with age, while an interaction was found between age and the length of list being recalled. Age differences in the probability of recall decreased as the length of the list being recalled increased. This interaction was replicated in a second experiment with immediate recall. This interaction seems most compatible with the hypothesis that older persons use less spontaneous organization during list learning. List length primarily disrupts the ability of younger subjects to develop adequate organizational plans (2.e., longer lists are more difficult to organize), and because older subjects are organizing less, they are less affected by the increases in list length.", "PMID": 429772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_133", "title": "Age effects on event-related potentials in a selective attention task.", "content": "We used an event-related brain potential (ERP) technique developed by Hillyard et al. (1973) to test abilities to attenuate irrelevant stimuli and to detect target stimuli. Subjects, 12 healthy old (80.3 years) and 12 healthy young adults (22.0 years), heard 1500 Hz tones in one ear and 800 Hz tones in the other ear. Infrequently, the pitch of either tone was raised. During one run, infrequent tones in the right ear were targets, and in the other run those in the left ear were targets. Subjects counted targets. For both groups, an early component of the ERP (N1) was larger to tones in the attended ear than in the unattended ear, and a later component (P3) was largest to the target. This suggests that both groups can attenuate irrelevant stimuli and can use stimulus probability information in this task. That P3 was later for old subjects suggests that they take longer to decide stimulus relevance.", "contents": "Age effects on event-related potentials in a selective attention task. We used an event-related brain potential (ERP) technique developed by Hillyard et al. (1973) to test abilities to attenuate irrelevant stimuli and to detect target stimuli. Subjects, 12 healthy old (80.3 years) and 12 healthy young adults (22.0 years), heard 1500 Hz tones in one ear and 800 Hz tones in the other ear. Infrequently, the pitch of either tone was raised. During one run, infrequent tones in the right ear were targets, and in the other run those in the left ear were targets. Subjects counted targets. For both groups, an early component of the ERP (N1) was larger to tones in the attended ear than in the unattended ear, and a later component (P3) was largest to the target. This suggests that both groups can attenuate irrelevant stimuli and can use stimulus probability information in this task. That P3 was later for old subjects suggests that they take longer to decide stimulus relevance.", "PMID": 429773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_134", "title": "Rotation of mental images by young and old college students: the effects of familiarity.", "content": "Younger and older college students judged whether letters, rotated from 0 to 180 degrees away from normal, upright position, were standard letters or mirror-images of standard letters. The analysis separated basic speed of response from the rate at which mental manipulations of the images of the letters took place. With letters from the English alphabet, younger (mean age, 21.6 years) and older (mean age 55.9 years) sugjects did not differ either in basic speed or in rate of manipulation. With unfamiliar, lower-case Greek letters, however, the basic speed of older subjects (mean age, 56.5 years) was slower than that of younger subjects (mean age, 21.2 years) while there was no difference in rate of manipulation. The results are inconsistent with an hypothesis of general slowing of central nervous system activity.", "contents": "Rotation of mental images by young and old college students: the effects of familiarity. Younger and older college students judged whether letters, rotated from 0 to 180 degrees away from normal, upright position, were standard letters or mirror-images of standard letters. The analysis separated basic speed of response from the rate at which mental manipulations of the images of the letters took place. With letters from the English alphabet, younger (mean age, 21.6 years) and older (mean age 55.9 years) sugjects did not differ either in basic speed or in rate of manipulation. With unfamiliar, lower-case Greek letters, however, the basic speed of older subjects (mean age, 56.5 years) was slower than that of younger subjects (mean age, 21.2 years) while there was no difference in rate of manipulation. The results are inconsistent with an hypothesis of general slowing of central nervous system activity.", "PMID": 429774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_135", "title": "Age differences in relationships between crystallized and fluid intelligences and problem solving.", "content": "One hundred and sixty-two subjects at three age levels were tested to examine the relationship between crystallized (Gc) and fluid (Gf) abilities and three problem solving tasks varying in the abstractness concreteness of their stimuli and emphasis on past experience. It was predicted that the difference in correlations between crystallized and fluid abilities and each of these tasks would increase with increased age. The hypotheses were partially supported in the young and elderly groups of subjects. On tasks using concrete stimuli, emphasizing past experience, where no cross-sectional decline was observed, Gc (relative to Gf) accounted for an increasing proportion of variance in performance with increased age. On tasks using abstract stimuli, de-emphasizing past experience, where significant cross-sectional declines were obtained, Gf (relative to Gc) correlated more highly with performance. Contrary to previous research, relationships between Gf and Bc supported a reintegration of abilities in old age.", "contents": "Age differences in relationships between crystallized and fluid intelligences and problem solving. One hundred and sixty-two subjects at three age levels were tested to examine the relationship between crystallized (Gc) and fluid (Gf) abilities and three problem solving tasks varying in the abstractness concreteness of their stimuli and emphasis on past experience. It was predicted that the difference in correlations between crystallized and fluid abilities and each of these tasks would increase with increased age. The hypotheses were partially supported in the young and elderly groups of subjects. On tasks using concrete stimuli, emphasizing past experience, where no cross-sectional decline was observed, Gc (relative to Gf) accounted for an increasing proportion of variance in performance with increased age. On tasks using abstract stimuli, de-emphasizing past experience, where significant cross-sectional declines were obtained, Gf (relative to Gc) correlated more highly with performance. Contrary to previous research, relationships between Gf and Bc supported a reintegration of abilities in old age.", "PMID": 429775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_136", "title": "Values and self-esteem in three generations of men and women.", "content": "Similarities and differences in values within families across three generations were examined. The relationship between values and self-esteem was also investigated. Sixty inter-generational triads (30M;30F) rated 14 values on a semantic-differential scale. The hypotheses of generational similarities in long-term, central (in Rokeach's terms, terminal) values and of generational differences in short term, specific (Rokeach's instrumental) values were generally supported. However, the hypothesized interactions of self-esteem and generation with values were only minimally supported by these data. There were no generational differences in the terminal values Equality, An Exciting Life, Freedom, and A Sense of Accomplishment. The oldest generation rated the instrumental values Ambition, Capability, Independence, and Intelligence higher than did the other generations. In addition, they rated the more work-oriented values of Education, Money, Success and Work highest. These findings are discussed as possible cohort rather than as age effects. Women rated Ambition, Education, and Intelligence more highly than men.", "contents": "Values and self-esteem in three generations of men and women. Similarities and differences in values within families across three generations were examined. The relationship between values and self-esteem was also investigated. Sixty inter-generational triads (30M;30F) rated 14 values on a semantic-differential scale. The hypotheses of generational similarities in long-term, central (in Rokeach's terms, terminal) values and of generational differences in short term, specific (Rokeach's instrumental) values were generally supported. However, the hypothesized interactions of self-esteem and generation with values were only minimally supported by these data. There were no generational differences in the terminal values Equality, An Exciting Life, Freedom, and A Sense of Accomplishment. The oldest generation rated the instrumental values Ambition, Capability, Independence, and Intelligence higher than did the other generations. In addition, they rated the more work-oriented values of Education, Money, Success and Work highest. These findings are discussed as possible cohort rather than as age effects. Women rated Ambition, Education, and Intelligence more highly than men.", "PMID": 429776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_137", "title": "Age bias, referral for psychological assistance and the private physician.", "content": "The responses of 60 physicians to a questionnaire comprised of a brief section for demographic information and eight vignettes describing patients with obvious psychiatric symptoms were analyzed. On alternate forms of the questionnaire, the age of the patient was reversed for each vignette. Old patients were referred for psychological assistance significantly less frequently (p less than .001) than were young patients, although both groups were described as presenting identical symptomatology. For those vignettes that described more severe behavioral disturbances, differences in the referral rates of young and not old patients was most pronounced. The results are discussed in terms of age bias on the part of the referring physician and the effect this may have on the provision of mental health treatment for elderly persons.", "contents": "Age bias, referral for psychological assistance and the private physician. The responses of 60 physicians to a questionnaire comprised of a brief section for demographic information and eight vignettes describing patients with obvious psychiatric symptoms were analyzed. On alternate forms of the questionnaire, the age of the patient was reversed for each vignette. Old patients were referred for psychological assistance significantly less frequently (p less than .001) than were young patients, although both groups were described as presenting identical symptomatology. For those vignettes that described more severe behavioral disturbances, differences in the referral rates of young and not old patients was most pronounced. The results are discussed in terms of age bias on the part of the referring physician and the effect this may have on the provision of mental health treatment for elderly persons.", "PMID": 429777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_138", "title": "Rural-urban differences in the structure of services for the elderly in upstate New York counties.", "content": "This research examines the impact of federal intervention and local community effort on the development of programs for the elderly. The study was designed, first, to gather longitudinal data on the structure of services for the elderly in 53 upstate New York counties for comparison with a study conducted in 1967 and, second, to measure the effectiveness of 43 counties with a County Office for the Aging (COFA) in mobilizing resources to increase services for the elderly. The findings reveal: (1) federal intervention has had the effect of an overall increase in services while at the same time decreasing rural-urban differences; (2) urban COFAs score consistently higher on the measures of community effectiveness; (3) the educational attainment of COFA directors is not a good predictor of success in mobilizing outside resources in both urban and rural counties; (4) in urban but not in rural counties, directors with administrator/planner experience have greater success in mobilizing outside resources.", "contents": "Rural-urban differences in the structure of services for the elderly in upstate New York counties. This research examines the impact of federal intervention and local community effort on the development of programs for the elderly. The study was designed, first, to gather longitudinal data on the structure of services for the elderly in 53 upstate New York counties for comparison with a study conducted in 1967 and, second, to measure the effectiveness of 43 counties with a County Office for the Aging (COFA) in mobilizing resources to increase services for the elderly. The findings reveal: (1) federal intervention has had the effect of an overall increase in services while at the same time decreasing rural-urban differences; (2) urban COFAs score consistently higher on the measures of community effectiveness; (3) the educational attainment of COFA directors is not a good predictor of success in mobilizing outside resources in both urban and rural counties; (4) in urban but not in rural counties, directors with administrator/planner experience have greater success in mobilizing outside resources.", "PMID": 429778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_139", "title": "The meaning of voluntary association participation to older people.", "content": "Studies have indicated little association between participation in voluntary associations by older people and well-being. This may reflect self-selection by well-to-do older people who are \"joiners\" or a lack of truly involving group roles. From interviews with 323 persons over 60, it was found that active group participation yielded more \"meaningful\" reasons for enjoyment, and card-playing less meaningful reasons. Such reasons for group participation as contacts with others and passing the time were associated with lower satisfaction. On the whole, however, type of activity and reasons for participation had little relationship to life satisfaction, since they largely reflected health and socioeconomic status differences.", "contents": "The meaning of voluntary association participation to older people. Studies have indicated little association between participation in voluntary associations by older people and well-being. This may reflect self-selection by well-to-do older people who are \"joiners\" or a lack of truly involving group roles. From interviews with 323 persons over 60, it was found that active group participation yielded more \"meaningful\" reasons for enjoyment, and card-playing less meaningful reasons. Such reasons for group participation as contacts with others and passing the time were associated with lower satisfaction. On the whole, however, type of activity and reasons for participation had little relationship to life satisfaction, since they largely reflected health and socioeconomic status differences.", "PMID": 429779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_140", "title": "Substitution of outpatient care for inpatient care:problems and experience.", "content": "This paper provides a logical framework for considering possible alternatives to inpatient care. First it presents the concept of a substitute-complement relationship among factors of production (or goods and services in consumption) and examines several problems often encountered when applying this concept. Second, it presents four general sources of substitution: (1) technological innovation; (2) changes in organization; (3) capital accumulation; and (4) the dissemination of knowledge. Third, it examines nine activities which are frequently mentioned as providing alternatives to inpatient care. Fourth, it examines some problems and consequences of governmental efforts to plan substitution. The general thrust of the paper is that the substitution process is complex and often depends upon amorphous variables whose influences are subtle, generally nonquantifiable, and often of overriding importance. These variables introduce a downward bias in estimates of program costs and an upward bias in the estimates of program accomplishments. The result is that government attempts to plan substitution are not well conceived and will generally fall short of announced goals and/or cost significantly more than original estimates.", "contents": "Substitution of outpatient care for inpatient care:problems and experience. This paper provides a logical framework for considering possible alternatives to inpatient care. First it presents the concept of a substitute-complement relationship among factors of production (or goods and services in consumption) and examines several problems often encountered when applying this concept. Second, it presents four general sources of substitution: (1) technological innovation; (2) changes in organization; (3) capital accumulation; and (4) the dissemination of knowledge. Third, it examines nine activities which are frequently mentioned as providing alternatives to inpatient care. Fourth, it examines some problems and consequences of governmental efforts to plan substitution. The general thrust of the paper is that the substitution process is complex and often depends upon amorphous variables whose influences are subtle, generally nonquantifiable, and often of overriding importance. These variables introduce a downward bias in estimates of program costs and an upward bias in the estimates of program accomplishments. The result is that government attempts to plan substitution are not well conceived and will generally fall short of announced goals and/or cost significantly more than original estimates.", "PMID": 429782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_141", "title": "Children's advocacy and primary health care.", "content": "Children cannot always articulate their own interests or make their own decisions. Children's advocacy is fundamentally an attempt to improve the lives of children. The advocacy effort may be directed either toward improving the outcomes of the decision or the process through which the decision is made. Children as a class are not well served by the health sector relative to other groups; poor children receive benefits and bear costs unequal to the nonpoor; and there is an unnecessary gap between what our technology is capable of offering and what is actually provided. These facts, in combination with the understanding that child health decisions are frequently made in arenas where the intersts of children are not well represented, strongly suggest that child health care decision making can be improved. Children's advocacy offers opportunities for such improvement.", "contents": "Children's advocacy and primary health care. Children cannot always articulate their own interests or make their own decisions. Children's advocacy is fundamentally an attempt to improve the lives of children. The advocacy effort may be directed either toward improving the outcomes of the decision or the process through which the decision is made. Children as a class are not well served by the health sector relative to other groups; poor children receive benefits and bear costs unequal to the nonpoor; and there is an unnecessary gap between what our technology is capable of offering and what is actually provided. These facts, in combination with the understanding that child health decisions are frequently made in arenas where the intersts of children are not well represented, strongly suggest that child health care decision making can be improved. Children's advocacy offers opportunities for such improvement.", "PMID": 429783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_142", "title": "Nosocomial klebsiellas. I. Colonization of hospitalized patients.", "content": "The colonization of patients by Klebsiella and several other gram-negative bacteria was studied in a hospital urological ward over a period of six months. Before and during the survey there was no evidence of an outbreak of nosocomial infection and multi-drug resistant strains of Klebsiella were not isolated. Klebsiella were biotyped by nine biochemical tests, which led to the detection of 66 biotypes spread uniformly throughout the survey period. This method of biotyping proved a useful epidemiological tool. The colonization rate of throats, hands, and faeces of patients increased after admission to the ward, especially when antibiotics were used. The effect of systemic antibiotics was greater than that of urinary antibiotics especially on throat and faeces carrier rates. Carrier rates for Klebsiella increased also after catheterization and operation--relationships which could well be multifactorial. During the first two weeks after admission the proportion of antibiotic resistant strains of Klebsiella in carriers increased. The proportion of resistant strains amongst isolations from clinical infections was always greater than among strains isolated routinely from sites of carriage.", "contents": "Nosocomial klebsiellas. I. Colonization of hospitalized patients. The colonization of patients by Klebsiella and several other gram-negative bacteria was studied in a hospital urological ward over a period of six months. Before and during the survey there was no evidence of an outbreak of nosocomial infection and multi-drug resistant strains of Klebsiella were not isolated. Klebsiella were biotyped by nine biochemical tests, which led to the detection of 66 biotypes spread uniformly throughout the survey period. This method of biotyping proved a useful epidemiological tool. The colonization rate of throats, hands, and faeces of patients increased after admission to the ward, especially when antibiotics were used. The effect of systemic antibiotics was greater than that of urinary antibiotics especially on throat and faeces carrier rates. Carrier rates for Klebsiella increased also after catheterization and operation--relationships which could well be multifactorial. During the first two weeks after admission the proportion of antibiotic resistant strains of Klebsiella in carriers increased. The proportion of resistant strains amongst isolations from clinical infections was always greater than among strains isolated routinely from sites of carriage.", "PMID": 429785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_143", "title": "Nosocomial klebsiellas. II. Transfer in a hospital ward.", "content": "During a 6-month period an epidemiological survey of the carriage of Klebsiella was conducted in a hospital ward where no outbreak of nosocomial infection occurred. In this endemic situation the regular sampling of several sites of patients, members of the nursing staff, and the environment, and the biotyping of Klebsiella made it possible to analyse the patterns of transmission between sites. There was abundant evidence for striking transmission of Klebsiella between the throat, hands, and faeces of patients. Transmission between patients seemed to be mainly through hands. The role of nurses' hands in transmission was not evident from this survey, probably due to the relatively long interval (a week) between samplings. Through the hands of patients, wash stands and the surrounding floor were contaminated with Klebsiella. The biotyping of Klebsiella facilitated the epidemiological analysis of the results.", "contents": "Nosocomial klebsiellas. II. Transfer in a hospital ward. During a 6-month period an epidemiological survey of the carriage of Klebsiella was conducted in a hospital ward where no outbreak of nosocomial infection occurred. In this endemic situation the regular sampling of several sites of patients, members of the nursing staff, and the environment, and the biotyping of Klebsiella made it possible to analyse the patterns of transmission between sites. There was abundant evidence for striking transmission of Klebsiella between the throat, hands, and faeces of patients. Transmission between patients seemed to be mainly through hands. The role of nurses' hands in transmission was not evident from this survey, probably due to the relatively long interval (a week) between samplings. Through the hands of patients, wash stands and the surrounding floor were contaminated with Klebsiella. The biotyping of Klebsiella facilitated the epidemiological analysis of the results.", "PMID": 429786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_144", "title": "Protection from natural infection after live influenza virus immunization in an open population.", "content": "Live attenuated influenza vaccine containing the recombinant of A/Victoria/3/75 with A/PR/8/34 virus was administered to healthy adults in a field trial aimed at evaluating protection provided by immunization. The study was designed to measure the effect of vaccination on absenteeism from respiratory disease during a natural influenza epidemic. A total of 2115 male employees of the public transport service of Rome volunteered to participate in the trial, 1050 and 1065 receiving vaccine and placebo respectively, in a randomized blind fashion. Vaccination procedure was completed by the end of December 1976. A small-sized outbreak of influenza, due to a viral strain antigenically homologous to the vaccine, occurred during the month of February 1977. Analysis of absenteeism data, classified according to medical certificate, indicated that morbidity from respiratory disease was reduced in vaccinees compared with controls during the epidemic month; the rate of increase of morbidity compared with that of the preceding month was then three times lower in vaccinees than in controls and the difference in absenteeism between the two groups greatly exceeded the ordinary fluctuation that was observed during non-epidemic periods.", "contents": "Protection from natural infection after live influenza virus immunization in an open population. Live attenuated influenza vaccine containing the recombinant of A/Victoria/3/75 with A/PR/8/34 virus was administered to healthy adults in a field trial aimed at evaluating protection provided by immunization. The study was designed to measure the effect of vaccination on absenteeism from respiratory disease during a natural influenza epidemic. A total of 2115 male employees of the public transport service of Rome volunteered to participate in the trial, 1050 and 1065 receiving vaccine and placebo respectively, in a randomized blind fashion. Vaccination procedure was completed by the end of December 1976. A small-sized outbreak of influenza, due to a viral strain antigenically homologous to the vaccine, occurred during the month of February 1977. Analysis of absenteeism data, classified according to medical certificate, indicated that morbidity from respiratory disease was reduced in vaccinees compared with controls during the epidemic month; the rate of increase of morbidity compared with that of the preceding month was then three times lower in vaccinees than in controls and the difference in absenteeism between the two groups greatly exceeded the ordinary fluctuation that was observed during non-epidemic periods.", "PMID": 429787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_145", "title": "A laboratory model for the investigation of contact transfer of micro-organisms.", "content": "The model was based on grasping a fabric-covered bottle contaminated with a strain of Staphylococcus saprophyticus, then grasping a sterile fabric-covered bottle and counting the organisms transferred. When the donor fabric was moist 10% of the available cells passed onto the hands, but this fell to 0.05% when the inoculum dried. Transfer from wet hands to the fabric amounted to 85%, but in the complete model only 0.06% of the available cells were transferred. The model was used to assess simple methods of degerming the hands. Washing the hands reduced transfer by 95%, while washing in 70% alcohol reduced transfer by 99.99%. Lesser procedures investigated included applying 0.2 ml of 80% ethanol to the hands, which reduced transfer by 93%.", "contents": "A laboratory model for the investigation of contact transfer of micro-organisms. The model was based on grasping a fabric-covered bottle contaminated with a strain of Staphylococcus saprophyticus, then grasping a sterile fabric-covered bottle and counting the organisms transferred. When the donor fabric was moist 10% of the available cells passed onto the hands, but this fell to 0.05% when the inoculum dried. Transfer from wet hands to the fabric amounted to 85%, but in the complete model only 0.06% of the available cells were transferred. The model was used to assess simple methods of degerming the hands. Washing the hands reduced transfer by 95%, while washing in 70% alcohol reduced transfer by 99.99%. Lesser procedures investigated included applying 0.2 ml of 80% ethanol to the hands, which reduced transfer by 93%.", "PMID": 429788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_146", "title": "Brucella abortus in the bitch: subclinical infection associated with urinary excretion.", "content": "Brucella abortus infection in the bitch, associated with an aborted bovine fetus, is described. Clinical signs were absent, but the organism was isolated from many sites in the body, including the urine, after death. The response of the dog to B. abortus infection and its possible role as a vector of the disease is discussed.", "contents": "Brucella abortus in the bitch: subclinical infection associated with urinary excretion. Brucella abortus infection in the bitch, associated with an aborted bovine fetus, is described. Clinical signs were absent, but the organism was isolated from many sites in the body, including the urine, after death. The response of the dog to B. abortus infection and its possible role as a vector of the disease is discussed.", "PMID": 429789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_147", "title": "The influence of operating conditions of activated-sludge treatment on the behaviour of f2 coliphage.", "content": "The behaviour of f2 coliphage during activated-sludge treatment was influenced by the temperature, flow-through-time, concentration of mixed liquor suspended solids and the virus load. The most sensitive way to detect behavioural changes was to examine the regression coefficients for the rate of uptake or loss of virus by the mixed liquor solids. This type of analysis revealed, for instance, high values when the solids concentration was high and even greater values occurred when high inocula were used. At high temperature the rate of loss of virus titre after inoculation had stopped was greater than the rate of uptake of virus during inoculation although in all other conditions uptake occurred at a greater rate than the loss of virus. The coefficients were relatively low when the flow rate was increased, when the temperature was low or when the inoculum was small. The distribution of virus between the solids and liquid fractions of the mixed liquor varied somewhat for all conditions but was notably different when (a) the plant was incubated at 5 degrees C when there was much less virus in the solids fraction than usual, and (b) when the inoculum was low and a much higher proportion of virus was found in the solids. The efficiency with which virus was removed across the plant was the least-sensitive determinant of viral behaviour and the value was about the same for most treatment conditions. However, low or high inocula did result in some increased or decreased removal of virus, respectively.", "contents": "The influence of operating conditions of activated-sludge treatment on the behaviour of f2 coliphage. The behaviour of f2 coliphage during activated-sludge treatment was influenced by the temperature, flow-through-time, concentration of mixed liquor suspended solids and the virus load. The most sensitive way to detect behavioural changes was to examine the regression coefficients for the rate of uptake or loss of virus by the mixed liquor solids. This type of analysis revealed, for instance, high values when the solids concentration was high and even greater values occurred when high inocula were used. At high temperature the rate of loss of virus titre after inoculation had stopped was greater than the rate of uptake of virus during inoculation although in all other conditions uptake occurred at a greater rate than the loss of virus. The coefficients were relatively low when the flow rate was increased, when the temperature was low or when the inoculum was small. The distribution of virus between the solids and liquid fractions of the mixed liquor varied somewhat for all conditions but was notably different when (a) the plant was incubated at 5 degrees C when there was much less virus in the solids fraction than usual, and (b) when the inoculum was low and a much higher proportion of virus was found in the solids. The efficiency with which virus was removed across the plant was the least-sensitive determinant of viral behaviour and the value was about the same for most treatment conditions. However, low or high inocula did result in some increased or decreased removal of virus, respectively.", "PMID": 429790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_148", "title": "Ecological effects of antibiotic production by dermatophyte fungi.", "content": "Antibiotic production by dermatophyte fungi has been demonstrated in vivo in the lesions of patients with dermatomycoses. Patients infected with antibiotic-producing strains more frequently carried cocci resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics than did patients infected with non-producer strains. The total bacterial load was less in lesions caused by producer fungi. In vitro studies demonstrated the selection of penicillin-resistant S. aureus from mixed populations of resistant and sensitive cells.", "contents": "Ecological effects of antibiotic production by dermatophyte fungi. Antibiotic production by dermatophyte fungi has been demonstrated in vivo in the lesions of patients with dermatomycoses. Patients infected with antibiotic-producing strains more frequently carried cocci resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics than did patients infected with non-producer strains. The total bacterial load was less in lesions caused by producer fungi. In vitro studies demonstrated the selection of penicillin-resistant S. aureus from mixed populations of resistant and sensitive cells.", "PMID": 429791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_149", "title": "An inherited mild middle-aged adiposity in wild mice.", "content": "In a warfarin-resistant population of wild mice reared in the laboratory, a dominant gene for adiposity, Ad, was found to segregate. The onset of obesity is at 4--6 months, and adipose mice suffer from hyperinsulinaemia; the sexes differ in penetrance, males having greater penetrance then females. Linkage backcrosses show the gene to be situated on chromosome 7 with about 25% recombination with the closely linked warfarin-resistance genes War, and frizzy, fr. The finding of adipose in two other wild populations also carrying War is discussed as an ecological and physiological problem.", "contents": "An inherited mild middle-aged adiposity in wild mice. In a warfarin-resistant population of wild mice reared in the laboratory, a dominant gene for adiposity, Ad, was found to segregate. The onset of obesity is at 4--6 months, and adipose mice suffer from hyperinsulinaemia; the sexes differ in penetrance, males having greater penetrance then females. Linkage backcrosses show the gene to be situated on chromosome 7 with about 25% recombination with the closely linked warfarin-resistance genes War, and frizzy, fr. The finding of adipose in two other wild populations also carrying War is discussed as an ecological and physiological problem.", "PMID": 429792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_150", "title": "HLA in populations: an approach for genetical susceptibility to cancer.", "content": "The geographical correlations between the incidence of various cancers and the HLA and ABO antigen frequencies are studied. There is, for example, a positive correlation between breast and colorectal carcinoma and AI, B8 and B12 antigens, and a negative one between prostate carcinoma and B12. The role of the HLA system itself or other genes involved in these associations is discussed. This study gives some evidence of a possible genetic background of susceptibility or resistance to cancer.", "contents": "HLA in populations: an approach for genetical susceptibility to cancer. The geographical correlations between the incidence of various cancers and the HLA and ABO antigen frequencies are studied. There is, for example, a positive correlation between breast and colorectal carcinoma and AI, B8 and B12 antigens, and a negative one between prostate carcinoma and B12. The role of the HLA system itself or other genes involved in these associations is discussed. This study gives some evidence of a possible genetic background of susceptibility or resistance to cancer.", "PMID": 429793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_151", "title": "Genetic differences in the mitogenic response of peripheral blood lymphocytes in the chicken.", "content": "The mitogenic responses of chicken peripheral blood lymphocytes were compared in two partially inbred chicken lines and in their hybrids. The lymphocytes of line P chickens showed a higher phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) response than those of line V chickens and (P X V)F1 hybrids. The Con A responses were of the same magnitude in all chicken lines. The higher PHA response in line P chickens was not sex-linked, apparently was not associated with the major histocompatibility complex and it did not correlate with immunoglobulin G allotypes.", "contents": "Genetic differences in the mitogenic response of peripheral blood lymphocytes in the chicken. The mitogenic responses of chicken peripheral blood lymphocytes were compared in two partially inbred chicken lines and in their hybrids. The lymphocytes of line P chickens showed a higher phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) response than those of line V chickens and (P X V)F1 hybrids. The Con A responses were of the same magnitude in all chicken lines. The higher PHA response in line P chickens was not sex-linked, apparently was not associated with the major histocompatibility complex and it did not correlate with immunoglobulin G allotypes.", "PMID": 429794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_152", "title": "Inhibition of lymphocyte cytotoxicity and mitogen-induced transformation of lymphocytes by human skin homogenates.", "content": "Limitation of the inflammatory cascade has been demonstrated in man by an inhibitor(s) of the prostaglandin system and by inhibitor(s) for chemotaxis of leukocytes. Other factors may exist in vivo that inhibit other inflammatory sequences. In this report, homogenates from human skin interfered with 2 standard assays of lymphocyte function, mitogen-induced transformation and cytotoxicity while homogenates of human placenta did not. Differential centrifugation studies located inhibitory factor(s) primarily in the nuclear fractions. Therefore, reversible transitory depressions of the cell-mediated immune response that are observed concomitantly with chronic dermatoses may reflect release of inhibitory material dermatitic skin in vivo.", "contents": "Inhibition of lymphocyte cytotoxicity and mitogen-induced transformation of lymphocytes by human skin homogenates. Limitation of the inflammatory cascade has been demonstrated in man by an inhibitor(s) of the prostaglandin system and by inhibitor(s) for chemotaxis of leukocytes. Other factors may exist in vivo that inhibit other inflammatory sequences. In this report, homogenates from human skin interfered with 2 standard assays of lymphocyte function, mitogen-induced transformation and cytotoxicity while homogenates of human placenta did not. Differential centrifugation studies located inhibitory factor(s) primarily in the nuclear fractions. Therefore, reversible transitory depressions of the cell-mediated immune response that are observed concomitantly with chronic dermatoses may reflect release of inhibitory material dermatitic skin in vivo.", "PMID": 429796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_153", "title": "Autosensitization to DNA: evidence for an immunologic basis.", "content": "A 59-year-old female with spontaneous painful ecchymoses developed ecchymoses after intracutaneous injection of washed autologous whole blood cells and calf thymus DNA. Immunofluorescent studies of the spontaneous lesions revealed granular deposits of IgM, C3, factor B and properdin at the dermal-epidermal junction but no deposits in her normal skin. T cells were decreased in number but responded normally to polyclonal mitogens and did not transform in response to DNA containing antigens. Repair of UV-damaged DNA by her lymphocytes appeared to be depressed. The findings presented here are the first immunologic abnormalities uncovered in this disorder and may help in understanding the pathogenesis of the inflammatory lesions seen in autosensitization to DNA.", "contents": "Autosensitization to DNA: evidence for an immunologic basis. A 59-year-old female with spontaneous painful ecchymoses developed ecchymoses after intracutaneous injection of washed autologous whole blood cells and calf thymus DNA. Immunofluorescent studies of the spontaneous lesions revealed granular deposits of IgM, C3, factor B and properdin at the dermal-epidermal junction but no deposits in her normal skin. T cells were decreased in number but responded normally to polyclonal mitogens and did not transform in response to DNA containing antigens. Repair of UV-damaged DNA by her lymphocytes appeared to be depressed. The findings presented here are the first immunologic abnormalities uncovered in this disorder and may help in understanding the pathogenesis of the inflammatory lesions seen in autosensitization to DNA.", "PMID": 429797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_154", "title": "Updated in vivo methods for evaluating topical antimicrobial agents on human skin.", "content": "Updated and expanded in vivo quantitative testing procedures to determine the efficacy of topical antimicrobial agents are presented. The occlusion test measures the ability of an agent to prevent the expansion of the resident microflora which occurs when an impermeable dressing is applied to the forearm. Measurements are made at 24 and 48 hr. The expanded flora test measures the ability of an agent to suppress a dense population of micro-organisms produced by expansion of the resident flora of the forearm by prior application of an impermeable occlusive dressing. Measurements are made at 6, 24 and 48 hr or after 10 min in the case for agents designed for immediate degerming. The persistence test measures the ability of an agent to establish a reservoir in skin and exert an antimicrobial effect up to 3 days after the last application of the test material. The ecological shift test determines any major alteration in cutaneous microbial ecology following several applications of the material under occlusive dressings. The serum inactivation test determines whether the presence of serum proteins interferes with antimicrobial activity.", "contents": "Updated in vivo methods for evaluating topical antimicrobial agents on human skin. Updated and expanded in vivo quantitative testing procedures to determine the efficacy of topical antimicrobial agents are presented. The occlusion test measures the ability of an agent to prevent the expansion of the resident microflora which occurs when an impermeable dressing is applied to the forearm. Measurements are made at 24 and 48 hr. The expanded flora test measures the ability of an agent to suppress a dense population of micro-organisms produced by expansion of the resident flora of the forearm by prior application of an impermeable occlusive dressing. Measurements are made at 6, 24 and 48 hr or after 10 min in the case for agents designed for immediate degerming. The persistence test measures the ability of an agent to establish a reservoir in skin and exert an antimicrobial effect up to 3 days after the last application of the test material. The ecological shift test determines any major alteration in cutaneous microbial ecology following several applications of the material under occlusive dressings. The serum inactivation test determines whether the presence of serum proteins interferes with antimicrobial activity.", "PMID": 429798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_155", "title": "Ultrastructure of the human mucocutaneous end organ.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the human mucocutaneous end organ is described. The corpuscle is divided into sublobular units comprising axon terminals surrounded by generally concentric lamellar processes which are derived from laminar cells whose nuclei are situated towards the periphery of the sublobules. Interlamellar substance which contains elastic tissue, collagen and coarse periodicity crossbanded structures intervenes between lamellar processes. Specialized zones of contact resembling desmosomes are found at intervals seemingly connecting adjacent lamellar processes and axons with lamellar processes. The ultrastructural features of this end organ are similar to that of the Meissner corpuscle despite minor differences of the light microscopical appearance, which supports the view that differences in sensory end organs are merely variations on a common organizational basis.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of the human mucocutaneous end organ. The ultrastructure of the human mucocutaneous end organ is described. The corpuscle is divided into sublobular units comprising axon terminals surrounded by generally concentric lamellar processes which are derived from laminar cells whose nuclei are situated towards the periphery of the sublobules. Interlamellar substance which contains elastic tissue, collagen and coarse periodicity crossbanded structures intervenes between lamellar processes. Specialized zones of contact resembling desmosomes are found at intervals seemingly connecting adjacent lamellar processes and axons with lamellar processes. The ultrastructural features of this end organ are similar to that of the Meissner corpuscle despite minor differences of the light microscopical appearance, which supports the view that differences in sensory end organs are merely variations on a common organizational basis.", "PMID": 429799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_156", "title": "Laboratory induction and clinical occurrence of combined clindamycin and erythromycin resistance in Corynebacterium acnes.", "content": "Corynebacterium acnes strains cross-resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin were observed following long-term selection or mutagenic treatment in the laboratory. Similar strains were found among clinical isolates from patients using clindamycin or erythromycin topically in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Clindamycin resistance was never observed in the absence of resistance to macrolides or other lincosaminides. It is suggested that this resistance may result from an alteration of the 50S ribosomal subunit.", "contents": "Laboratory induction and clinical occurrence of combined clindamycin and erythromycin resistance in Corynebacterium acnes. Corynebacterium acnes strains cross-resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin were observed following long-term selection or mutagenic treatment in the laboratory. Similar strains were found among clinical isolates from patients using clindamycin or erythromycin topically in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Clindamycin resistance was never observed in the absence of resistance to macrolides or other lincosaminides. It is suggested that this resistance may result from an alteration of the 50S ribosomal subunit.", "PMID": 429800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_157", "title": "[A quantitative ultrastructural analysis of fenestrations and basal laminae of the blood capillaries in the knee joint synovial membrane (author's transl)].", "content": "Studies were carried out on the materials comprising the knee joint synovial membrane, kidney and lung from 13 young dogs and the knee joint synovial membrane obtained surgically from a 16-year old boy. The number of endothelial fenestrations of the blood capillary in the synovial membrane was 330 per 100 mu2 of the fenestrated vascular bed in 3--4 day-old dogs, 938 in 1 month-old dogs, 570 in 2 month-old dogs and 530 in the boy. The conspicuous peak in the development of vascular endothelial fenestrations seen in the synovial membrane of the dogs at 1 month of postnatal age appears to reflect a rapid increase in the mechanical load for the knee joint about 1 month after birth. A similar peak was absent for the blood capillaries in the renal glomeruli where the endothelial fenestrations continued to increase for the first 2 months of the postnatal period in dogs. The basal laminae of blood capillaries in the synovial membrane were often observed to be multi-layered, and this was remarkable especially in the human material. However, the thickness of the laminae of blood capillaries in the synovial membrane, as well as in the renal glomeruli and the lungs, showed a gradual increase with advance of the postnatal age of puppies up to 2 months.", "contents": "[A quantitative ultrastructural analysis of fenestrations and basal laminae of the blood capillaries in the knee joint synovial membrane (author's transl)]. Studies were carried out on the materials comprising the knee joint synovial membrane, kidney and lung from 13 young dogs and the knee joint synovial membrane obtained surgically from a 16-year old boy. The number of endothelial fenestrations of the blood capillary in the synovial membrane was 330 per 100 mu2 of the fenestrated vascular bed in 3--4 day-old dogs, 938 in 1 month-old dogs, 570 in 2 month-old dogs and 530 in the boy. The conspicuous peak in the development of vascular endothelial fenestrations seen in the synovial membrane of the dogs at 1 month of postnatal age appears to reflect a rapid increase in the mechanical load for the knee joint about 1 month after birth. A similar peak was absent for the blood capillaries in the renal glomeruli where the endothelial fenestrations continued to increase for the first 2 months of the postnatal period in dogs. The basal laminae of blood capillaries in the synovial membrane were often observed to be multi-layered, and this was remarkable especially in the human material. However, the thickness of the laminae of blood capillaries in the synovial membrane, as well as in the renal glomeruli and the lungs, showed a gradual increase with advance of the postnatal age of puppies up to 2 months.", "PMID": 429815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_158", "title": "[Spinal electrogram evoked by peripheral nerve stimulation in man (author's transl)].", "content": "Summated evoked responses to peroneal and tibial nerve stimulation were recorded from surface electrodes placed over the lumbar and thoracic spine of twenty normal adults. The responses consisted of triphasic potentials (mainly negative) which progressively increased in latency at more rostal recording sites. These responses were thought to have a common origin with those recorded from the spinal epidural space. The conduction velocity of the responses to peroneal nerve stimulation was 48.5 m/sec from the lower to the upper thoracic recording site. In twenty patients with spinal cord lesions, responses caudal to the lesion were similar to those recorded in normal adults except six patients with cauda lesion. Six completely paralysed patients were examined soon after injuries, and two were noted to have evoked spinal responses above the lesion, followed by returning of the function in the lower extrimities. These suggest that this method is of prognostic value for predicting recovery of neurologic function after injuries.", "contents": "[Spinal electrogram evoked by peripheral nerve stimulation in man (author's transl)]. Summated evoked responses to peroneal and tibial nerve stimulation were recorded from surface electrodes placed over the lumbar and thoracic spine of twenty normal adults. The responses consisted of triphasic potentials (mainly negative) which progressively increased in latency at more rostal recording sites. These responses were thought to have a common origin with those recorded from the spinal epidural space. The conduction velocity of the responses to peroneal nerve stimulation was 48.5 m/sec from the lower to the upper thoracic recording site. In twenty patients with spinal cord lesions, responses caudal to the lesion were similar to those recorded in normal adults except six patients with cauda lesion. Six completely paralysed patients were examined soon after injuries, and two were noted to have evoked spinal responses above the lesion, followed by returning of the function in the lower extrimities. These suggest that this method is of prognostic value for predicting recovery of neurologic function after injuries.", "PMID": 429816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_159", "title": "[A study of the stress distribution of the stem of the total hip prosthesis (author's transl)].", "content": "By attaching the strain gauges on the inner and outer sides of the stem of the total hip prosthesis composed of M\u00fcller, Charnley and domestic SOM type, the stress distribution was measured. At first, the center of the head of the prosthesis and the apex of the stem were adjusted to be on the vertical line, and a vertical load was placed on the uppermost end of the head, then the stress was measured. Next, the stem was fixed in the hole of a wood-block containing acrylic resin, and the load was placed on the head in neutral, 10 degrees valgus and 10 degrees varus position and in the direction same as the stem before fixation, then the stress was measured of respective position. In comparing the difference in stress distribution between the fixed and the non-fixed stem, the stress in the case of the fixed stem proved to be 17--32% that of the non-fixed one. The site where the maximum stress appeared was at the middle third of the stem in the case of the non-fixed stem, while it was at the neck and at the one fifth of the upper portion of the fixed one. In comparing the stress at the neutral, the valgus and the varus position, the stress at the valgus position was found to be minimum, and taking the stress at the neutral position as 100, it was 60--82, and at the varus position the maximum of 105--131 appeared.", "contents": "[A study of the stress distribution of the stem of the total hip prosthesis (author's transl)]. By attaching the strain gauges on the inner and outer sides of the stem of the total hip prosthesis composed of M\u00fcller, Charnley and domestic SOM type, the stress distribution was measured. At first, the center of the head of the prosthesis and the apex of the stem were adjusted to be on the vertical line, and a vertical load was placed on the uppermost end of the head, then the stress was measured. Next, the stem was fixed in the hole of a wood-block containing acrylic resin, and the load was placed on the head in neutral, 10 degrees valgus and 10 degrees varus position and in the direction same as the stem before fixation, then the stress was measured of respective position. In comparing the difference in stress distribution between the fixed and the non-fixed stem, the stress in the case of the fixed stem proved to be 17--32% that of the non-fixed one. The site where the maximum stress appeared was at the middle third of the stem in the case of the non-fixed stem, while it was at the neck and at the one fifth of the upper portion of the fixed one. In comparing the stress at the neutral, the valgus and the varus position, the stress at the valgus position was found to be minimum, and taking the stress at the neutral position as 100, it was 60--82, and at the varus position the maximum of 105--131 appeared.", "PMID": 429817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_160", "title": "Clinicopathological study of soft tissue tumors.", "content": "Clinical aspects of patients with soft tissue tumors encountered at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Toho University over a 15 year period between 1961 and 1976 were analyzed. Accurate clinical records and histological findings were available in 91 patients, 80 of whom had benign tumors and 11 of whom had malignant ones. Recurrence was seen in 7 of the 80 patients with benign tumors. The prognosis was poor in those with malignant tumors as expected, especially in those with rhabdomyosarcoma.", "contents": "Clinicopathological study of soft tissue tumors. Clinical aspects of patients with soft tissue tumors encountered at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Toho University over a 15 year period between 1961 and 1976 were analyzed. Accurate clinical records and histological findings were available in 91 patients, 80 of whom had benign tumors and 11 of whom had malignant ones. Recurrence was seen in 7 of the 80 patients with benign tumors. The prognosis was poor in those with malignant tumors as expected, especially in those with rhabdomyosarcoma.", "PMID": 429818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_161", "title": "[Dermatoglyphic studies on the congenital hand anomalies (author's transl)].", "content": "Dermatoglyphic studies were carried out on the congenital hand anomalies. Clinical materials consisted of 94 cases with hand anomalies and 148 of their normal relatives as a control. An analysis of the dermal ridge patterns was based on \"the Memorandum of Dermatoglyphic Nomenclature\" described by Penrose. The results were as follows: 1) In hypoplastic fingers, a high incidence of radial loops or arches was noted, which were quite rare in normal fingers. 2) In cases with crooked fingers, a high incidence of simian creases on palms was noticed. 3) In hypoplastic thumbs, higher positions of axial triradii were observed in accordance with the advance of their grades. 4) In cases of cleft hands with the loss of a central digit, a rudimental finger pattern was found on the edge of the cleft. In the absence of two digits in cleft hands, two finger patterns were found locating on either sides of the clefts of the palm. 5) In cases of syndactyly, union of the digital triradii was found on the palm between bases of the two syndactylous fingers. In a case of osseous syndactyly, single finger pattern was observed on the palmar side of the digital phalanges. 6) In congenital amputations of the humerus, rudimental digits or finger nubbins were sometimes found on their stumps. I found whorl patterns on the nubbins, which suggested rudimental finger patterns. 7) In unilateral constriction band syndrome, the finger and palm patterns showed no particular changes except coarse ridges on affected fingers. In macrodactyly, there were normal ridge counts and the increased ridge breadths, which might indicate the anomalies occurring after the stage of formation of finger patterns. 8) In families of the arthrogryposis multiple congenita and camptodactyly, total ridge counts were markedly decreased and the incidence of the arches on fingers was marked increased. Conclusions The studies on dermal ridges on the congenital hand anomalies may give important keys for solving the process and time of occurrence of these anomalies in the early embryonal lives.", "contents": "[Dermatoglyphic studies on the congenital hand anomalies (author's transl)]. Dermatoglyphic studies were carried out on the congenital hand anomalies. Clinical materials consisted of 94 cases with hand anomalies and 148 of their normal relatives as a control. An analysis of the dermal ridge patterns was based on \"the Memorandum of Dermatoglyphic Nomenclature\" described by Penrose. The results were as follows: 1) In hypoplastic fingers, a high incidence of radial loops or arches was noted, which were quite rare in normal fingers. 2) In cases with crooked fingers, a high incidence of simian creases on palms was noticed. 3) In hypoplastic thumbs, higher positions of axial triradii were observed in accordance with the advance of their grades. 4) In cases of cleft hands with the loss of a central digit, a rudimental finger pattern was found on the edge of the cleft. In the absence of two digits in cleft hands, two finger patterns were found locating on either sides of the clefts of the palm. 5) In cases of syndactyly, union of the digital triradii was found on the palm between bases of the two syndactylous fingers. In a case of osseous syndactyly, single finger pattern was observed on the palmar side of the digital phalanges. 6) In congenital amputations of the humerus, rudimental digits or finger nubbins were sometimes found on their stumps. I found whorl patterns on the nubbins, which suggested rudimental finger patterns. 7) In unilateral constriction band syndrome, the finger and palm patterns showed no particular changes except coarse ridges on affected fingers. In macrodactyly, there were normal ridge counts and the increased ridge breadths, which might indicate the anomalies occurring after the stage of formation of finger patterns. 8) In families of the arthrogryposis multiple congenita and camptodactyly, total ridge counts were markedly decreased and the incidence of the arches on fingers was marked increased. Conclusions The studies on dermal ridges on the congenital hand anomalies may give important keys for solving the process and time of occurrence of these anomalies in the early embryonal lives.", "PMID": 429819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_162", "title": "[Suprasternal bone (author's transl)].", "content": "Human skeletons have many variations which may occasionally necessitate distinction from pathologic changes. Suprasternal bone is an unfamiliar normal variation in the vicinity of the sternoclavicular joint. It was first described by B\u00e9clard in 1820 and thereafter many reports have appeared, mostly in anatomy and embryology. An incidence less than 5% is reported abroad. This report describes the incidence of suprasternal bone in Japanese and a few clinical reference cases. Suprasternal bone is now considered to have derived from the persistent rudiment of epicoracoid which should have normally consisted of the part of manubrium sterni. Suprasternal tubercle is considered to be the osseously fused type of suprasternal bone. The material consisted of two groups: 1) Seventy-four sterna were examined roentgenographically which were removed en bloc from the cadavera. 2) 562 sterna of living subjects were examined roentgenographically by Kattan's method. In the seventy-four cadavera, eight cases had suprasternal bones (10.8%) and fourteen cases had suprasternal tubercles. Among them, three had suprasternal bone and tubercle on each side. In the 562 living subjects, thirty-nine cases had suprasternal bones (6.9%) and eight cases had suprasternal tubercles. Among them, three had both on each side. The incidence of suprasternal bone in Japanese is therefore higher than foreigners' reported previously. Kattan's method employed in this study is simple and excellent to show manubrium sterni and sternoclavicular joint clearly. It is emphasized that suprasternal bone is not uncommon and differential diagnosis from pathologic changes is easy as long as it is kept in mind.", "contents": "[Suprasternal bone (author's transl)]. Human skeletons have many variations which may occasionally necessitate distinction from pathologic changes. Suprasternal bone is an unfamiliar normal variation in the vicinity of the sternoclavicular joint. It was first described by B\u00e9clard in 1820 and thereafter many reports have appeared, mostly in anatomy and embryology. An incidence less than 5% is reported abroad. This report describes the incidence of suprasternal bone in Japanese and a few clinical reference cases. Suprasternal bone is now considered to have derived from the persistent rudiment of epicoracoid which should have normally consisted of the part of manubrium sterni. Suprasternal tubercle is considered to be the osseously fused type of suprasternal bone. The material consisted of two groups: 1) Seventy-four sterna were examined roentgenographically which were removed en bloc from the cadavera. 2) 562 sterna of living subjects were examined roentgenographically by Kattan's method. In the seventy-four cadavera, eight cases had suprasternal bones (10.8%) and fourteen cases had suprasternal tubercles. Among them, three had suprasternal bone and tubercle on each side. In the 562 living subjects, thirty-nine cases had suprasternal bones (6.9%) and eight cases had suprasternal tubercles. Among them, three had both on each side. The incidence of suprasternal bone in Japanese is therefore higher than foreigners' reported previously. Kattan's method employed in this study is simple and excellent to show manubrium sterni and sternoclavicular joint clearly. It is emphasized that suprasternal bone is not uncommon and differential diagnosis from pathologic changes is easy as long as it is kept in mind.", "PMID": 429820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_163", "title": "[Prevalence of osteoarthrosis of the hip and other joints in Japanese population (author's transl)].", "content": "A population study on osteoarthrosis (OA) was made in Iwata district of Kamitonda Wakayama. In the present survey, 1335 inhabitants aged 30 years and over were surveyed from August 1972 to May 1974. The completion rate was 69.1%. The examinations consisted of measurements of blood pressure, body height and weight, blood and urine test and radiographs of hand, cervical spine and pelvis. Osteoarthrotic changes of wrist and finger joint, cervical spine and hip joint were detected and assessed according to Kellgren and Lawrence's criteria by two observers respectively. The results obtained were as follows. 1) The prevalence of OA of the hip joint in this population sample of 737 persons was 0.94%. 2) Primary OA of hip joint was found in 0.27% of the same sample. 3) Compared with Caucasians, the incidence of OA of hip joint was low and similar to that of the Chinese in Hong Kong. 5) The incidnece of radiological osteoarthrosis of wrist, finger joints and cervical spine was comparable in the British studied by Kellgren and Lawrence. 6) The incidence of OA of the first carpometacarpal joint was very low in Japanese regardless the sex.", "contents": "[Prevalence of osteoarthrosis of the hip and other joints in Japanese population (author's transl)]. A population study on osteoarthrosis (OA) was made in Iwata district of Kamitonda Wakayama. In the present survey, 1335 inhabitants aged 30 years and over were surveyed from August 1972 to May 1974. The completion rate was 69.1%. The examinations consisted of measurements of blood pressure, body height and weight, blood and urine test and radiographs of hand, cervical spine and pelvis. Osteoarthrotic changes of wrist and finger joint, cervical spine and hip joint were detected and assessed according to Kellgren and Lawrence's criteria by two observers respectively. The results obtained were as follows. 1) The prevalence of OA of the hip joint in this population sample of 737 persons was 0.94%. 2) Primary OA of hip joint was found in 0.27% of the same sample. 3) Compared with Caucasians, the incidence of OA of hip joint was low and similar to that of the Chinese in Hong Kong. 5) The incidnece of radiological osteoarthrosis of wrist, finger joints and cervical spine was comparable in the British studied by Kellgren and Lawrence. 6) The incidence of OA of the first carpometacarpal joint was very low in Japanese regardless the sex.", "PMID": 429821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_164", "title": "[Study of weight-bearing changes of normal and abnormal feet by frontal tomography (author's transl)].", "content": "Roentogenographic examination with emphasis upon frontal tomography was applied to clarify the positional relationship between the calcaneus and talus, and to measure weight-bearing changes of these bones on normal and abnormal feet in frontal plane. studied were conducted on 30 left feet of normal adults, 18 left feet of normal children, and 37 feet of 19 children affected with cerebral palsy, and 19 feet with unilateral or bilateral foot disorders other than cerebral palsy. Statistical analysis of the in patients with diseases results gave the following results. The 30 feet of normal adults were without definite trend for internal or external rotation, medical or lateral shift, though the calcaneus in the sinus tarsi was found to lower to an average extent of 1.68 +/- 0.68mm. The 8 feet of normal children were also without definite trend of rotation or shift. The calcanei of some of children's flat feet with cerbral palsy were found to fluctuate markedly up and down and also medialy and laterally. But the weightbearing change was in most cases with cerebral palsy stayed within normal ranges. The 19 feet with disorders other than cerebral palsy were found to lie within the normal ranges of lowering, rotation and shift. The author's modification of M\u00e9ary's method was able to be used quantitatively and qualitatively. This method showed that feet with calcaneus varus of calcaneus valgus deviate markedly from the normal feet based in the evidence of average precentage. The analysis by this quantitative method was found to agree well with that by frontal tomography.", "contents": "[Study of weight-bearing changes of normal and abnormal feet by frontal tomography (author's transl)]. Roentogenographic examination with emphasis upon frontal tomography was applied to clarify the positional relationship between the calcaneus and talus, and to measure weight-bearing changes of these bones on normal and abnormal feet in frontal plane. studied were conducted on 30 left feet of normal adults, 18 left feet of normal children, and 37 feet of 19 children affected with cerebral palsy, and 19 feet with unilateral or bilateral foot disorders other than cerebral palsy. Statistical analysis of the in patients with diseases results gave the following results. The 30 feet of normal adults were without definite trend for internal or external rotation, medical or lateral shift, though the calcaneus in the sinus tarsi was found to lower to an average extent of 1.68 +/- 0.68mm. The 8 feet of normal children were also without definite trend of rotation or shift. The calcanei of some of children's flat feet with cerbral palsy were found to fluctuate markedly up and down and also medialy and laterally. But the weightbearing change was in most cases with cerebral palsy stayed within normal ranges. The 19 feet with disorders other than cerebral palsy were found to lie within the normal ranges of lowering, rotation and shift. The author's modification of M\u00e9ary's method was able to be used quantitatively and qualitatively. This method showed that feet with calcaneus varus of calcaneus valgus deviate markedly from the normal feet based in the evidence of average precentage. The analysis by this quantitative method was found to agree well with that by frontal tomography.", "PMID": 429822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_165", "title": "[A biomechanical study on the fracture treatment--intravital measurement of the strain on an intramedullary nail in the healing process of the femoral fracture in goats (author's transl)].", "content": "There have been many biomechanical studies throughout the world on the fracture treatment. However, only a few were performed under intravital condition. The purpose of the present study is to measure the successive strength changes of the callus after a fracture, in vivo in an animal. Specifically designed K\u00fcntscher nails were made to meet the anterior convexity and the size of the medullary canal of the femora of goats. Three self-temperature-compensating semi-conductor strain-gauges were glued on the inner surface of the nail and coated with epoxy-resin and silicone rubber. The nail was inserted into the intact femur, and the initial measurement of the strains was performed using a specially designed wooden three point bending jig. Then the femur was transected at the middle. Periodical measurements of the strains were done, first, during walking and, then, with the three point bending jig under general anesthesia. Ten goats were used for the experiments. The measurement was undertaken every two to three weeks. Serial x-rays were taken. The femur was studied histopathologically after the death of the animal. 1. Although the nail with the strain-gauges presented some foreign body reaction and certain difficulties in sterilization, it was well tolerated by the animal, permitting the strain measurement for as long as 18 weeks after the fracture. 2. There was a tendency that the less loosening is found between the nail and the bone, the larger is the strain and the smaller becomes the dispersion of the strains. 3. On the three point bending test, the post-fracture strain changes were not directly proportional to the lapse of time. In the early phase, the strains remained large for about four weeks and tended to rapidly decrease in the middle and late phases in accordance with the development of callus formation on x-ray. 4. A similar strain change was observed on the walking test, although the animal presented with some painful limp. The results suggest that early excessive exercise to be avoided when an intramedullary fixation is not sufficiently rigid.", "contents": "[A biomechanical study on the fracture treatment--intravital measurement of the strain on an intramedullary nail in the healing process of the femoral fracture in goats (author's transl)]. There have been many biomechanical studies throughout the world on the fracture treatment. However, only a few were performed under intravital condition. The purpose of the present study is to measure the successive strength changes of the callus after a fracture, in vivo in an animal. Specifically designed K\u00fcntscher nails were made to meet the anterior convexity and the size of the medullary canal of the femora of goats. Three self-temperature-compensating semi-conductor strain-gauges were glued on the inner surface of the nail and coated with epoxy-resin and silicone rubber. The nail was inserted into the intact femur, and the initial measurement of the strains was performed using a specially designed wooden three point bending jig. Then the femur was transected at the middle. Periodical measurements of the strains were done, first, during walking and, then, with the three point bending jig under general anesthesia. Ten goats were used for the experiments. The measurement was undertaken every two to three weeks. Serial x-rays were taken. The femur was studied histopathologically after the death of the animal. 1. Although the nail with the strain-gauges presented some foreign body reaction and certain difficulties in sterilization, it was well tolerated by the animal, permitting the strain measurement for as long as 18 weeks after the fracture. 2. There was a tendency that the less loosening is found between the nail and the bone, the larger is the strain and the smaller becomes the dispersion of the strains. 3. On the three point bending test, the post-fracture strain changes were not directly proportional to the lapse of time. In the early phase, the strains remained large for about four weeks and tended to rapidly decrease in the middle and late phases in accordance with the development of callus formation on x-ray. 4. A similar strain change was observed on the walking test, although the animal presented with some painful limp. The results suggest that early excessive exercise to be avoided when an intramedullary fixation is not sufficiently rigid.", "PMID": 429823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_166", "title": "[An experimental study on repair and restoration of gliding function of the injured flexor tendon of the finger. Part 6: A mode of vascularization of the grafted tendon within the pseudosheath (author's transl)].", "content": "The so-called two-stage procedure has been used in the reconstructive surgery for the severely injured flexor tendon of the finger. However, only little has been known as to vascularity of the grafted tendon within the pseudosheath. In order to clarify this problem, a series of experimental studies were carried out using young chickens. First, the flexor tendon of the fourth digit of chicken with its sheath was replaced by a silicone rod. The distal end of the rod was sutured to the stump of the flexor digitorum profundus and the proximal end left free. Then, in ten to sixteen weeks, upon removal of the rod, the flexor digitorum profundus of the third digit was grafted through into the newly formed pseudosheath. The paw was immobilized with plaster case in moderate flexion for three weeks, then the chicken was allowed to walk freely. At the different time intervals, starting from the third day to the fifteen weeks after surgery, a mode of vascularization of the grafted tendon and its surrounding tissue was examined microangiographically. The vessels appear at the area of proximal and distal stump of the grafted tendon a week postoperatively, and additional vessels appear at the contact area of the pseudosheath and the grafted tendon two weeks postoperatively. These vessels formed mutual anastomosis in five to six weeks. With time, the vessels connecting between the epitenon and the pseudosheath gradually enlarge and assemble together to form vascular bundles, so that the appearance of the structure becomes similar to that of the mesotenon. Three weeks postoperatively, the vessels appeared in the grafted tendon, and grew gradually so that these vessels ran through the full length of the grafted tendon in five to six weeks. About ten weeks, the vascularity of the grafted tendon is more abundant than that of the normal tendon, but diminished gradually so as to resemble that of the normal tendon at the fifteeth week. Thus, the growth of the vessels of the tendon grafted by two-stage procedure is delayed by two weeks compared with that by the primary tendon grafting.", "contents": "[An experimental study on repair and restoration of gliding function of the injured flexor tendon of the finger. Part 6: A mode of vascularization of the grafted tendon within the pseudosheath (author's transl)]. The so-called two-stage procedure has been used in the reconstructive surgery for the severely injured flexor tendon of the finger. However, only little has been known as to vascularity of the grafted tendon within the pseudosheath. In order to clarify this problem, a series of experimental studies were carried out using young chickens. First, the flexor tendon of the fourth digit of chicken with its sheath was replaced by a silicone rod. The distal end of the rod was sutured to the stump of the flexor digitorum profundus and the proximal end left free. Then, in ten to sixteen weeks, upon removal of the rod, the flexor digitorum profundus of the third digit was grafted through into the newly formed pseudosheath. The paw was immobilized with plaster case in moderate flexion for three weeks, then the chicken was allowed to walk freely. At the different time intervals, starting from the third day to the fifteen weeks after surgery, a mode of vascularization of the grafted tendon and its surrounding tissue was examined microangiographically. The vessels appear at the area of proximal and distal stump of the grafted tendon a week postoperatively, and additional vessels appear at the contact area of the pseudosheath and the grafted tendon two weeks postoperatively. These vessels formed mutual anastomosis in five to six weeks. With time, the vessels connecting between the epitenon and the pseudosheath gradually enlarge and assemble together to form vascular bundles, so that the appearance of the structure becomes similar to that of the mesotenon. Three weeks postoperatively, the vessels appeared in the grafted tendon, and grew gradually so that these vessels ran through the full length of the grafted tendon in five to six weeks. About ten weeks, the vascularity of the grafted tendon is more abundant than that of the normal tendon, but diminished gradually so as to resemble that of the normal tendon at the fifteeth week. Thus, the growth of the vessels of the tendon grafted by two-stage procedure is delayed by two weeks compared with that by the primary tendon grafting.", "PMID": 429824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_167", "title": "Binding of methylfolate and pteroylglutamic acid by the specific serum folate binder.", "content": "The binding sites for methylfolate of the FABP in serum are fully saturated in the physiological state. When the FABP of serum from pregnant subjects is stripped of its endogenous folate, it is capable of binding an average of 549 +/- 12 pg/ml (range 464 to 723) of 14C-methylfolate, compared with 736 +/- 57 pg/ml (range 491 to 1610) of 3H-PGA. When 3H-PGA is added to untreated serum, an average of 258 +/- 6 pg/ml (range 218 to 325) is bound by FABP; this binding represents sites available to PGA but not to methylfolate, as well as sites from which methylfolate is displaced by 3H-PGA. This displacement averages 71 +/- 10 pg/ml (range 9 to 142), the amount which the standard technique for measurement of the UFBC for 3H-PGA overestimates the true UFBC for PGA.", "contents": "Binding of methylfolate and pteroylglutamic acid by the specific serum folate binder. The binding sites for methylfolate of the FABP in serum are fully saturated in the physiological state. When the FABP of serum from pregnant subjects is stripped of its endogenous folate, it is capable of binding an average of 549 +/- 12 pg/ml (range 464 to 723) of 14C-methylfolate, compared with 736 +/- 57 pg/ml (range 491 to 1610) of 3H-PGA. When 3H-PGA is added to untreated serum, an average of 258 +/- 6 pg/ml (range 218 to 325) is bound by FABP; this binding represents sites available to PGA but not to methylfolate, as well as sites from which methylfolate is displaced by 3H-PGA. This displacement averages 71 +/- 10 pg/ml (range 9 to 142), the amount which the standard technique for measurement of the UFBC for 3H-PGA overestimates the true UFBC for PGA.", "PMID": 429835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_168", "title": "Equilibration of peritoneal dialysis solutions during long-dwell exchanges.", "content": "There is an increasing interest in CAPD for the treatment of chronic uremia. This technique uses long-dwell peritoneal exchanges lasting 4 hr or more. We have determined equilibration curves for multiple solutes during long exchanges with commercially available 1.5% and 4.25% dextrose dialysis solutions. For small solutes, rates of change of D/P ratios fall off dramatically after 3 hr of dwell time. For larger solutes, D/P ratios change more linearly. Some concentration gradients for net removal by diffusion persist well beyond 4 hr for all but the most highly diffusible solutes. Previously reported net sieving of sodium and chloride during hypertonic exchanges is still evident after many hours.", "contents": "Equilibration of peritoneal dialysis solutions during long-dwell exchanges. There is an increasing interest in CAPD for the treatment of chronic uremia. This technique uses long-dwell peritoneal exchanges lasting 4 hr or more. We have determined equilibration curves for multiple solutes during long exchanges with commercially available 1.5% and 4.25% dextrose dialysis solutions. For small solutes, rates of change of D/P ratios fall off dramatically after 3 hr of dwell time. For larger solutes, D/P ratios change more linearly. Some concentration gradients for net removal by diffusion persist well beyond 4 hr for all but the most highly diffusible solutes. Previously reported net sieving of sodium and chloride during hypertonic exchanges is still evident after many hours.", "PMID": 429837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_169", "title": "Abnormal neutrophil chemotaxis and random migration induced by aminoglycoside antibiotics.", "content": "Gentamicin and amikacin, administered in therapeutic doses to normal healthy adults, caused a transient decrease in chemotactic migration of their PMNs. In contrast, RM of leukocytes obtained from these individuals was increased significantly. The magnitude of these changes did not correlate with the serum antibiotic concentrations. Separate in vitro experiments with gentamicin, however, revealed an inverse dose-response relationship with chemotactic suppression. The mechanism(s) involved in modifications of these leukocyte functions is not well understood. These findings may be of clinical significance in patients, especially those with altered host defense mechanisms, who require therapy with these aminoglycoside antimicrobial agents.", "contents": "Abnormal neutrophil chemotaxis and random migration induced by aminoglycoside antibiotics. Gentamicin and amikacin, administered in therapeutic doses to normal healthy adults, caused a transient decrease in chemotactic migration of their PMNs. In contrast, RM of leukocytes obtained from these individuals was increased significantly. The magnitude of these changes did not correlate with the serum antibiotic concentrations. Separate in vitro experiments with gentamicin, however, revealed an inverse dose-response relationship with chemotactic suppression. The mechanism(s) involved in modifications of these leukocyte functions is not well understood. These findings may be of clinical significance in patients, especially those with altered host defense mechanisms, who require therapy with these aminoglycoside antimicrobial agents.", "PMID": 429840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_170", "title": "Splanchnic hemodynamic factors in cirrhosis with refractory ascites.", "content": "Splanchnic and systemic hemodynamic observations in eight patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites were compared to those of 25 patients with cirrhosis and responsive ascites. The refractory ascitic group was characterized by less portasystemic shunting from both the superior mesenteric and splenic vascular beds, a lower cardiac output, a higher systemic vascular resistance, a wider arterial-hepatic venous oxygen difference, and a tendency for a lower HBF and higher postsinusoidal resistance. Portal pressures assessed from hepatic vein catheterization were similar in the two groups. The absence of a well-developed portasystemic collateral bed in patients with refractory ascites could in part be caused by the tense ascites but could also be an important factor in the mechanism of refractory ascites.", "contents": "Splanchnic hemodynamic factors in cirrhosis with refractory ascites. Splanchnic and systemic hemodynamic observations in eight patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites were compared to those of 25 patients with cirrhosis and responsive ascites. The refractory ascitic group was characterized by less portasystemic shunting from both the superior mesenteric and splenic vascular beds, a lower cardiac output, a higher systemic vascular resistance, a wider arterial-hepatic venous oxygen difference, and a tendency for a lower HBF and higher postsinusoidal resistance. Portal pressures assessed from hepatic vein catheterization were similar in the two groups. The absence of a well-developed portasystemic collateral bed in patients with refractory ascites could in part be caused by the tense ascites but could also be an important factor in the mechanism of refractory ascites.", "PMID": 429841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_171", "title": "Platelet survival in patients previously resuscitated from out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation.", "content": "Platelet survival times were measured in 11 ambulatory patients within 5 to 21 months of out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation unassociated with acute myocardial infarction. The mean platelet survival time of 7.7 +/- 2.1 days was shortened when compared with 28 normal controls of similar age (9.0 +/- 1.0 days, p less than 0.03) but not different from 56 other patients with stable angina pectoris (6.85 +/- 1.81 days, p less than 0.2). One patient with a near normal survival time of 7.5 days experienced recurrent ventricular fibrillation without associated acute myocardial infarction 1 month following the platelet survival study. Although one platelet inhibitory agent, sulfinpyrazone, may lower the incidence of sudden cardiac death following acute myocardial infarction, the shortened platelet survival time in the group of patients experiencing out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation did not distinguish them from others with coronary artery disease.", "contents": "Platelet survival in patients previously resuscitated from out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation. Platelet survival times were measured in 11 ambulatory patients within 5 to 21 months of out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation unassociated with acute myocardial infarction. The mean platelet survival time of 7.7 +/- 2.1 days was shortened when compared with 28 normal controls of similar age (9.0 +/- 1.0 days, p less than 0.03) but not different from 56 other patients with stable angina pectoris (6.85 +/- 1.81 days, p less than 0.2). One patient with a near normal survival time of 7.5 days experienced recurrent ventricular fibrillation without associated acute myocardial infarction 1 month following the platelet survival study. Although one platelet inhibitory agent, sulfinpyrazone, may lower the incidence of sudden cardiac death following acute myocardial infarction, the shortened platelet survival time in the group of patients experiencing out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation did not distinguish them from others with coronary artery disease.", "PMID": 429842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_172", "title": "Oxygen transport in a woman with hemoglobin Hope/beta+ thalassemia.", "content": "Because their blood may \"unload\" oxygen more readily than normal, people with hemoglobin of low oxygen affinity might be expected to be anemic. We have studied a woman with hemoglobin Hope/beta+ thalassemia, whose hemoglobin level was 10.4 to 12.3 gm/dl (normal 14 +/- 2) despite a P50 of 41 mm Hg (normal 26). Her cardiac index was normal, yielding a calculated mixed venous PO2 of 51 mm Hg (normal 34 to 49). Oxygen transport in patients with low oxygen affinity can be maintained by a variety of homeostatic responses, only one of which is altered erythropoiesis.", "contents": "Oxygen transport in a woman with hemoglobin Hope/beta+ thalassemia. Because their blood may \"unload\" oxygen more readily than normal, people with hemoglobin of low oxygen affinity might be expected to be anemic. We have studied a woman with hemoglobin Hope/beta+ thalassemia, whose hemoglobin level was 10.4 to 12.3 gm/dl (normal 14 +/- 2) despite a P50 of 41 mm Hg (normal 26). Her cardiac index was normal, yielding a calculated mixed venous PO2 of 51 mm Hg (normal 34 to 49). Oxygen transport in patients with low oxygen affinity can be maintained by a variety of homeostatic responses, only one of which is altered erythropoiesis.", "PMID": 429843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_173", "title": "Spontaneous secretion from the dog small intestine in vivo.", "content": "Forty loops of small intestine in the dog were perfused under control conditions with a balanced electrolyte solution. Most of the loops absorbed sodium and water, but 10 loops were in a state of spontaneous intestinal secretion. Compared to absorbing loops, spontaneously secreting loops exhibited reduced values for lumen-to-plasma fluxes of sodium and chloride and increased values for the plasma-to-lumen fluxes of these ions. Analysis of flux ratios suggested that sodium and chloride were actively scecreted during spontaneous intestinal secretion in the dog. Spontaneous secretion was similar to the secretion induced by CT or VIP, except that the latter were associated with a change in PD whereas the PD in the spontaneously secreting loops was the same as in the spontaneously absorbing loops.", "contents": "Spontaneous secretion from the dog small intestine in vivo. Forty loops of small intestine in the dog were perfused under control conditions with a balanced electrolyte solution. Most of the loops absorbed sodium and water, but 10 loops were in a state of spontaneous intestinal secretion. Compared to absorbing loops, spontaneously secreting loops exhibited reduced values for lumen-to-plasma fluxes of sodium and chloride and increased values for the plasma-to-lumen fluxes of these ions. Analysis of flux ratios suggested that sodium and chloride were actively scecreted during spontaneous intestinal secretion in the dog. Spontaneous secretion was similar to the secretion induced by CT or VIP, except that the latter were associated with a change in PD whereas the PD in the spontaneously secreting loops was the same as in the spontaneously absorbing loops.", "PMID": 429849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_174", "title": "Platelet and fibrinogen production: relative sensitivities to endotoxin.", "content": "The relative sensitivities of platelet and fibrinogen production to endotoxin were determined in male New Zealand rabbits. E. coli endotoxin was administered in single intravenous doses of 0.1 to 50.0 mu/g/kg body mass. 75SeM was injected 5, 12, or 18 hr after endotoxin, and the percent incorporation into platelets and fibrinogen was used to measure thrombopoiesis and fibrinogen synthesis. Leukopenia occurred after the infusion of endotoxin at all dose levels; the lowest dose that caused thrombocytopenia was 0.5 microgram/kg. Endotoxin was detected with the Limulus test in plasma of animals that received 5 to 50 microgram/kg. The stimulation of fibrinogen and platelet production, as well as the postinfusion decrease in platelet count, correlated directly with the log of the dose of endotoxin infused. The lowest dose of endotoxin that stimulated platelet and fibrinogen production was 0.5 microgram/kg. In animals that received this dose of endotoxin, increased fibrinogen production was detected only when 75SeM was injected 5 hr later. In animals injected 5, 12, or 18 hr later. Increased platelet production was detected at these two doses only when 75SeM was injected 18 hr after endotoxin. The data indicate that fibrinogen and platelet production have similar sensitivities to endotoxin, although the time course of stimulation is different for these two blood components.", "contents": "Platelet and fibrinogen production: relative sensitivities to endotoxin. The relative sensitivities of platelet and fibrinogen production to endotoxin were determined in male New Zealand rabbits. E. coli endotoxin was administered in single intravenous doses of 0.1 to 50.0 mu/g/kg body mass. 75SeM was injected 5, 12, or 18 hr after endotoxin, and the percent incorporation into platelets and fibrinogen was used to measure thrombopoiesis and fibrinogen synthesis. Leukopenia occurred after the infusion of endotoxin at all dose levels; the lowest dose that caused thrombocytopenia was 0.5 microgram/kg. Endotoxin was detected with the Limulus test in plasma of animals that received 5 to 50 microgram/kg. The stimulation of fibrinogen and platelet production, as well as the postinfusion decrease in platelet count, correlated directly with the log of the dose of endotoxin infused. The lowest dose of endotoxin that stimulated platelet and fibrinogen production was 0.5 microgram/kg. In animals that received this dose of endotoxin, increased fibrinogen production was detected only when 75SeM was injected 5 hr later. In animals injected 5, 12, or 18 hr later. Increased platelet production was detected at these two doses only when 75SeM was injected 18 hr after endotoxin. The data indicate that fibrinogen and platelet production have similar sensitivities to endotoxin, although the time course of stimulation is different for these two blood components.", "PMID": 429852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_175", "title": "Monocyte functional and metabolic activity in malignant and inflammatory diseases.", "content": "Macrophages or monocytes produce CL upon exposure to ingestible particles such as opsonized zymosan or bacteria. In previous studies, we have demonstrated that activated macrophages from mice produce significantly more CL than do normal macrophages. In the present study, we have utilized the CL assay as well as 14C-1-glucose utilization to assess monocyte metabolic activity in a variety of malignant, infectious, and inflammatory diseases. Monocyte peak CL was significantly increased above control values (20.9 +/- 0.5 (S.E.) X 10(3) cpm) in 25 patients with lymphoma (26.7 +/- 1.5 x 10(3)). Markedly increased CL was also seen in inflammatory processes such as bacterial infections, tuberculosis, and sarcoidosis (32.2 +/- 2.7 x 10(3)). In contrast, monocytes from patients with solid tumors, including carcinomas of breast and gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, had peak CL values (22.4 +/- 1.6 x 10(3) which were not significantly different from controls. When studied by determining 14C-1-glucose utilization, hexose monophosphate shunt activity paralleled CL values. Monocyte metabolic activation appears therefore to accompany ongoing infectious or granulomatous processes and may also be present in certain malignancies associated with reticuloendothelial stimulation.", "contents": "Monocyte functional and metabolic activity in malignant and inflammatory diseases. Macrophages or monocytes produce CL upon exposure to ingestible particles such as opsonized zymosan or bacteria. In previous studies, we have demonstrated that activated macrophages from mice produce significantly more CL than do normal macrophages. In the present study, we have utilized the CL assay as well as 14C-1-glucose utilization to assess monocyte metabolic activity in a variety of malignant, infectious, and inflammatory diseases. Monocyte peak CL was significantly increased above control values (20.9 +/- 0.5 (S.E.) X 10(3) cpm) in 25 patients with lymphoma (26.7 +/- 1.5 x 10(3)). Markedly increased CL was also seen in inflammatory processes such as bacterial infections, tuberculosis, and sarcoidosis (32.2 +/- 2.7 x 10(3)). In contrast, monocytes from patients with solid tumors, including carcinomas of breast and gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, had peak CL values (22.4 +/- 1.6 x 10(3) which were not significantly different from controls. When studied by determining 14C-1-glucose utilization, hexose monophosphate shunt activity paralleled CL values. Monocyte metabolic activation appears therefore to accompany ongoing infectious or granulomatous processes and may also be present in certain malignancies associated with reticuloendothelial stimulation.", "PMID": 429853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_176", "title": "Type IV and type \"A-B\" collagens do not elicit platelet aggregation or the serotonin release reaction.", "content": "Human collagens were isolated from kidney, lung, skin, aorta, cartilage, and placenta. Five different types were obtained, including two new molecular species, one characteristic of basement membranes, or type IV collagen, and the other the recently described \"A-B\" collagen derived from fetal membranes. All the collagens were purified and separated by combination of heat-gelation fractionation and salt fractionation. In neutral solution at 37 degrees neither type IV nor type \"A-B\" collagen elicited platelet aggregation or 14C-serotonin release. Preincubation of platelets with both types IV and \"A-B\" collagen did not inhibit aggregation upon subsequent addition of collagen types I, II, or III.", "contents": "Type IV and type \"A-B\" collagens do not elicit platelet aggregation or the serotonin release reaction. Human collagens were isolated from kidney, lung, skin, aorta, cartilage, and placenta. Five different types were obtained, including two new molecular species, one characteristic of basement membranes, or type IV collagen, and the other the recently described \"A-B\" collagen derived from fetal membranes. All the collagens were purified and separated by combination of heat-gelation fractionation and salt fractionation. In neutral solution at 37 degrees neither type IV nor type \"A-B\" collagen elicited platelet aggregation or 14C-serotonin release. Preincubation of platelets with both types IV and \"A-B\" collagen did not inhibit aggregation upon subsequent addition of collagen types I, II, or III.", "PMID": 429855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_177", "title": "Use of protein A--containing Staphylococcus aureus as an immunoadsorbent in radioimmunoassays to separate antibody-bound from free antigen.", "content": "Heat killed, formalinized Cowan I strain Staphylococcus aureus (PASA) was examined for its utility as a solid-phase immunoadsorbent in various RIA procedures. Specific antibody could be adsorbed to PASA and then reacted with radiolabeled and unlabeled hormone, or alternatively, PASA could be added to antibody-hormone mixture in order to separate antibody-bound from free antigen. Both methods compared favorably with the more standard double-antibody method in each system tested. Antibodies produced by rabbits, guinea pigs, monkeys, and humans were precipitated equally by PASA and double antibody, whereas antibody raised in sheep was precipitated much less by PASA than by double antibody. Antibody bound to PASA was found to reach equilibrium of binding more slowly than unbound antibody for both rapid (TRH) and slow (rPRL) reactions. Binding of either free of complexed IgG by PASA, however, was extremely rapid, reaching equilibrium in less than 30 sec. This rapid binding was utilized in kinetic experiments which would not have been possible with slower-reacting precipitating agents. The versatility permitted by this propertly constitutes one of the most useful characteristics of PASA. Other important attributes of PASA include its convenience, economy, and wide applicability.", "contents": "Use of protein A--containing Staphylococcus aureus as an immunoadsorbent in radioimmunoassays to separate antibody-bound from free antigen. Heat killed, formalinized Cowan I strain Staphylococcus aureus (PASA) was examined for its utility as a solid-phase immunoadsorbent in various RIA procedures. Specific antibody could be adsorbed to PASA and then reacted with radiolabeled and unlabeled hormone, or alternatively, PASA could be added to antibody-hormone mixture in order to separate antibody-bound from free antigen. Both methods compared favorably with the more standard double-antibody method in each system tested. Antibodies produced by rabbits, guinea pigs, monkeys, and humans were precipitated equally by PASA and double antibody, whereas antibody raised in sheep was precipitated much less by PASA than by double antibody. Antibody bound to PASA was found to reach equilibrium of binding more slowly than unbound antibody for both rapid (TRH) and slow (rPRL) reactions. Binding of either free of complexed IgG by PASA, however, was extremely rapid, reaching equilibrium in less than 30 sec. This rapid binding was utilized in kinetic experiments which would not have been possible with slower-reacting precipitating agents. The versatility permitted by this propertly constitutes one of the most useful characteristics of PASA. Other important attributes of PASA include its convenience, economy, and wide applicability.", "PMID": 429860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_178", "title": "Heparin inhibits PGE1-sensitive adenylate cyclase and antagonizes PGE1 antiaggregating effect in human platelets.", "content": "PGE1-sensitive adenylate cyclase in human platelet lysates in inhibited (50%) by heparin (10 microgram/ml). Inhibition is of a mixed type when analyzed by double-reciprocal analysis. It is also shown that heparin (2.5 to 10 microgram/ml) effectively antagonizes the antiaggregating effect of PGE1 on ADP-induced platelet aggregation. The possibility that heparin may exert its platelet-aggregating activity through inhibition of PGE1-sensitive AC in human platelets is discussed.", "contents": "Heparin inhibits PGE1-sensitive adenylate cyclase and antagonizes PGE1 antiaggregating effect in human platelets. PGE1-sensitive adenylate cyclase in human platelet lysates in inhibited (50%) by heparin (10 microgram/ml). Inhibition is of a mixed type when analyzed by double-reciprocal analysis. It is also shown that heparin (2.5 to 10 microgram/ml) effectively antagonizes the antiaggregating effect of PGE1 on ADP-induced platelet aggregation. The possibility that heparin may exert its platelet-aggregating activity through inhibition of PGE1-sensitive AC in human platelets is discussed.", "PMID": 429861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_179", "title": "Transferrin binding and iron transport in iron-deficient and iron-replete rat reticulocytes.", "content": "Three aspects of iron metabolism were studies in reticulocytes from iron-deficient, phlebotomized, and phenylhydrazine-treated rats: (1) the number of transferrin binding sites; (2) the uptake of 59Fe-transferrin; and (3) the ability of cytosol to mobilize 59Fe from 59Fe-labeled reticulocyte plasma membrane. The number of transferrin binding sites, assayed by measuring the binding of 125I-labeled transferrin to reticulocytes, were similar in iron-deficient and phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes, 66,000 and 75,000 binding sites/cell, respectively, but were about doubled, 120,000 binding sites/cell, in phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes. Uptake of 59Fe into iron-deficient reticulocytes was about one-half that for phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes and one-quarter that for phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes, the rates of uptake being measured as 21,540, 41,233, and 79,600 molecules of 59Fe per minute per cell, respectively. The mobilizing activity of cytosol free iron-deficient reticulocytes was also about one-half that of cytosol from phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes and about one-quarter that of cytosol from phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes. These results indicate that instead of a compensatory increase in these aspects of iron metabolism, the iron-deficient reticulocyte had a decreased ability to transport iron.", "contents": "Transferrin binding and iron transport in iron-deficient and iron-replete rat reticulocytes. Three aspects of iron metabolism were studies in reticulocytes from iron-deficient, phlebotomized, and phenylhydrazine-treated rats: (1) the number of transferrin binding sites; (2) the uptake of 59Fe-transferrin; and (3) the ability of cytosol to mobilize 59Fe from 59Fe-labeled reticulocyte plasma membrane. The number of transferrin binding sites, assayed by measuring the binding of 125I-labeled transferrin to reticulocytes, were similar in iron-deficient and phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes, 66,000 and 75,000 binding sites/cell, respectively, but were about doubled, 120,000 binding sites/cell, in phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes. Uptake of 59Fe into iron-deficient reticulocytes was about one-half that for phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes and one-quarter that for phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes, the rates of uptake being measured as 21,540, 41,233, and 79,600 molecules of 59Fe per minute per cell, respectively. The mobilizing activity of cytosol free iron-deficient reticulocytes was also about one-half that of cytosol from phlebotomy-induced reticulocytes and about one-quarter that of cytosol from phenylhydrazine-induced reticulocytes. These results indicate that instead of a compensatory increase in these aspects of iron metabolism, the iron-deficient reticulocyte had a decreased ability to transport iron.", "PMID": 429862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_180", "title": "Platelet membrane glycoproteins in thrombasthenia, Bernard-Soulier syndrome, and storage pool disease.", "content": "Quantitative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has been carried out on patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome, Glanzmann's thrombasthenia, and storage pool defect in order to clarify the abnormalities in their platelet membrane glycoproteins. Normal individuals had values (expressed as PAS staining units/mg of membrane protein) of 5.11 +/- 0.63 for glycoprotein 1 (Mr 150,000), 2.35 +/- 0.35 for glycoprotein II (Mr 120,000), 0.89 +/- 0.22 for glycoprotein III (Mr 100,000), and 1.34 +/- 0.64 for glycoprotein IV (Mr 85,000). Total PAS staining of these four major bands was 9.70 +/- 1.26 PAS units/mg of membane protein. Patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome completely lacked glycocalicin and had about one half (1.90 PAS units/mg) of the glycoprotein I of normal controls. These was no significant reduction in glycoproteins II, III, and IV, but total PASstaining was reduced to 4.40 units/mg, reflecting the importance of the contribution of glycoprotein I to this parameter. Thrombasthenic platelets gave values for glycoprotein II of 0.66, which were about 25% of controls, and the values for glycoprotein III (0.34) were about 40% of controls. Patients with storage pool disease gave values within the normal range with the exception of one family which showed, in addition, small platelets and an associated lipid defect. In thic case of glycoprotein (2.71) was significantly elevated.", "contents": "Platelet membrane glycoproteins in thrombasthenia, Bernard-Soulier syndrome, and storage pool disease. Quantitative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has been carried out on patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome, Glanzmann's thrombasthenia, and storage pool defect in order to clarify the abnormalities in their platelet membrane glycoproteins. Normal individuals had values (expressed as PAS staining units/mg of membrane protein) of 5.11 +/- 0.63 for glycoprotein 1 (Mr 150,000), 2.35 +/- 0.35 for glycoprotein II (Mr 120,000), 0.89 +/- 0.22 for glycoprotein III (Mr 100,000), and 1.34 +/- 0.64 for glycoprotein IV (Mr 85,000). Total PAS staining of these four major bands was 9.70 +/- 1.26 PAS units/mg of membane protein. Patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome completely lacked glycocalicin and had about one half (1.90 PAS units/mg) of the glycoprotein I of normal controls. These was no significant reduction in glycoproteins II, III, and IV, but total PASstaining was reduced to 4.40 units/mg, reflecting the importance of the contribution of glycoprotein I to this parameter. Thrombasthenic platelets gave values for glycoprotein II of 0.66, which were about 25% of controls, and the values for glycoprotein III (0.34) were about 40% of controls. Patients with storage pool disease gave values within the normal range with the exception of one family which showed, in addition, small platelets and an associated lipid defect. In thic case of glycoprotein (2.71) was significantly elevated.", "PMID": 429863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_181", "title": "Correlation of in vivo and in vitro inhibition of thrombin by plasma inhibitors.", "content": "Rabbit antithrombin III and thrombin were purified to homogeneity to determine the in vivo relationship of these proteins in an autologous system. These proteins, radiolabeled with Na[125I], were injected into rabbits to determine the circulatory half-life. The mean half-life values were 125I-antithrombin III, 54.75 +/- 3.10 hr; 125I-thrombin, 7.25 +/- 1.49 hr; 125I-thrombin-antithrombin III, 7.25 +/- 1.09 hr; 125I[thrombin-antithrombin III], 11.13 +/- 0.88 hr; and Tos-Lys-CH2Cl-125I-thrombin, 27.75 +/- 3.18 hr. All the mean half-life values were statistically different from that of thrombin alone except for the two forms of thrombin-antithrombin III complex. Following injection of the radiolabeled proteins, plasma samples were obtained and gel-filtered to analyze the molecular weight distribution of the radiolabel. An identical elution position on gel filtration of 125I-antithrombin III with native antithrombin III was observed. The 125I-thrombin distributed into two peaks of radioactivity, with a molecular weight of 100,000 (79%) and a molecular weight greater than 200,000 (21%). The 100,000 dalton peak is consistent with a thrombin--antithrombin III complex, and the greater than 200,000 dalton peak is consistent with a thrombin-alpha 2-macroglobulin complex as confirmed by in vitro immunochemical studies. Thrombin inactivated with Tos-Lys-CH2Cl also showed two peaks of radioactivity on gel filtration, one peak which was excluded from the column and the other peak with an elution volume that was consistent with the position of native thrombin.", "contents": "Correlation of in vivo and in vitro inhibition of thrombin by plasma inhibitors. Rabbit antithrombin III and thrombin were purified to homogeneity to determine the in vivo relationship of these proteins in an autologous system. These proteins, radiolabeled with Na[125I], were injected into rabbits to determine the circulatory half-life. The mean half-life values were 125I-antithrombin III, 54.75 +/- 3.10 hr; 125I-thrombin, 7.25 +/- 1.49 hr; 125I-thrombin-antithrombin III, 7.25 +/- 1.09 hr; 125I[thrombin-antithrombin III], 11.13 +/- 0.88 hr; and Tos-Lys-CH2Cl-125I-thrombin, 27.75 +/- 3.18 hr. All the mean half-life values were statistically different from that of thrombin alone except for the two forms of thrombin-antithrombin III complex. Following injection of the radiolabeled proteins, plasma samples were obtained and gel-filtered to analyze the molecular weight distribution of the radiolabel. An identical elution position on gel filtration of 125I-antithrombin III with native antithrombin III was observed. The 125I-thrombin distributed into two peaks of radioactivity, with a molecular weight of 100,000 (79%) and a molecular weight greater than 200,000 (21%). The 100,000 dalton peak is consistent with a thrombin--antithrombin III complex, and the greater than 200,000 dalton peak is consistent with a thrombin-alpha 2-macroglobulin complex as confirmed by in vitro immunochemical studies. Thrombin inactivated with Tos-Lys-CH2Cl also showed two peaks of radioactivity on gel filtration, one peak which was excluded from the column and the other peak with an elution volume that was consistent with the position of native thrombin.", "PMID": 429864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_182", "title": "Sulfhydryl-mediated depression of ciliary activity: an adverse effect of acetylcysteine.", "content": "Although N-acetyl-L-cysteine (Mucomyst) is an effective mycolytic, numerous investigations have failed to demonstrate a consistent improvement in pulmonary mechanics following its use. In order to determine whether its beneficial mucolytic activity might be counterbalanced by a deleterious direct effect on cilia, we studied its effect on the activity of ciliated epithelium in the ferret tracheal organ culture system. N-acetyl-L-cysteine consistently caused progressive time-dependent ciliostasis at concentrations clinically employed, with complete ciliary paralysis within 8 hr. The effect was only partially reversed by the removal of the drug. Control preparations retained full ciliary activity for 3 to 12 weeks. In order to determine the active site on the N-acetyl-L-cysteine molecule, we investigated the ciliostatic effects of five of its chemical analogs. Isomolar N-acetyl-L-alanine was not ciliostatic, indicating the necessity of a sulfhydryl group for activity. Ciliostasis was independent of isomeric structure, acetylation, and chain length, as evidenced by the similar ciliostatic effects of L-cysteine, D-cysteine, 2-mercaptoethylamine, and N-acetyl-L-homocysteine. We conclude that N-acetyl-L-cysteine induces partially reversible ciliostasis of tracheal epithelium via its sulfhydryl group; prolonged use of this drug may impair mucociliary clearance.", "contents": "Sulfhydryl-mediated depression of ciliary activity: an adverse effect of acetylcysteine. Although N-acetyl-L-cysteine (Mucomyst) is an effective mycolytic, numerous investigations have failed to demonstrate a consistent improvement in pulmonary mechanics following its use. In order to determine whether its beneficial mucolytic activity might be counterbalanced by a deleterious direct effect on cilia, we studied its effect on the activity of ciliated epithelium in the ferret tracheal organ culture system. N-acetyl-L-cysteine consistently caused progressive time-dependent ciliostasis at concentrations clinically employed, with complete ciliary paralysis within 8 hr. The effect was only partially reversed by the removal of the drug. Control preparations retained full ciliary activity for 3 to 12 weeks. In order to determine the active site on the N-acetyl-L-cysteine molecule, we investigated the ciliostatic effects of five of its chemical analogs. Isomolar N-acetyl-L-alanine was not ciliostatic, indicating the necessity of a sulfhydryl group for activity. Ciliostasis was independent of isomeric structure, acetylation, and chain length, as evidenced by the similar ciliostatic effects of L-cysteine, D-cysteine, 2-mercaptoethylamine, and N-acetyl-L-homocysteine. We conclude that N-acetyl-L-cysteine induces partially reversible ciliostasis of tracheal epithelium via its sulfhydryl group; prolonged use of this drug may impair mucociliary clearance.", "PMID": 429865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_183", "title": "The effect of INH-inhibited heme synthesis on globin synthesis.", "content": "In the rabbit reticulocyte cell-free system, optimal globin synthesis is dependent upon an adequate level of heme. The effect of heme is mediated by an inhibitor of globin synthesis initiation termed HCR. In addition to marked inhibition of total globin synthesis, HCR results in a decreased alpha/beta globulin synthesis ratio. We describe here the use of INH as a relatively nontoxic inhibitor of heme synthesis in intact rabbit reticulocytes with a resultant inhibition of globin synthesis. In parallel with the inhibition of globin synthesis in reticulocytes, an inhibitor of globin synthesis in the hemin-supplemented cell-free system is generated. No INH-induced alterations in alpha/beta synthesis ratio could be found in \"stress\" reticulocytes from phenylhydrazine-treated rabbits, but \"normal\" reticulocytes from untreated rabbits showed a decreased alpha/beta ratio. Inhibition of heme synthesis and the resulting decrease in globin synthesis and intracellular hemoglobin concentration may have application as a potential treatment of homozygous sickle cell disease.", "contents": "The effect of INH-inhibited heme synthesis on globin synthesis. In the rabbit reticulocyte cell-free system, optimal globin synthesis is dependent upon an adequate level of heme. The effect of heme is mediated by an inhibitor of globin synthesis initiation termed HCR. In addition to marked inhibition of total globin synthesis, HCR results in a decreased alpha/beta globulin synthesis ratio. We describe here the use of INH as a relatively nontoxic inhibitor of heme synthesis in intact rabbit reticulocytes with a resultant inhibition of globin synthesis. In parallel with the inhibition of globin synthesis in reticulocytes, an inhibitor of globin synthesis in the hemin-supplemented cell-free system is generated. No INH-induced alterations in alpha/beta synthesis ratio could be found in \"stress\" reticulocytes from phenylhydrazine-treated rabbits, but \"normal\" reticulocytes from untreated rabbits showed a decreased alpha/beta ratio. Inhibition of heme synthesis and the resulting decrease in globin synthesis and intracellular hemoglobin concentration may have application as a potential treatment of homozygous sickle cell disease.", "PMID": 429866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_184", "title": "Relation of fluorescence in lipid-containing red cell membrane extracts to in vivo lipid peroxidation.", "content": "Previous studies have demonstrated that the abnormal fluorescent peak consistent with the crosslinking of red cell membrane constituents by the lipid-peroxide decomposition product MDA is demonstrable in lipid-containing extracts of red cells obtained from patients treated with the oxidizing hemolytic agent diaminodiphenylsulfone. The present studies were primarily aimed at ascertaining the specificity of this fluorescence as an indicator of in vivo red cell lipid peroxidation. Repetitive injection of phenylhydrazine or acetylphenylhydrazine in rats resulted in gradually increasing levels of fluorescence despite the return in hematocrit toward normal. Chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 of lipid-containing extracts obtained from the red cells of rats and rabbits treated with phenylhydrazine revealed fluorescent peaks similar to those observed in red cell lipid incubated with MDA. In addition, increased levels of fluorescence were observed in the extracts of red cells obtained from three vitamin E--deficient premature infants. These findings suggest that the fluorescence assay is a sensitive indicator of in vivo red cell lipid peroxidation.", "contents": "Relation of fluorescence in lipid-containing red cell membrane extracts to in vivo lipid peroxidation. Previous studies have demonstrated that the abnormal fluorescent peak consistent with the crosslinking of red cell membrane constituents by the lipid-peroxide decomposition product MDA is demonstrable in lipid-containing extracts of red cells obtained from patients treated with the oxidizing hemolytic agent diaminodiphenylsulfone. The present studies were primarily aimed at ascertaining the specificity of this fluorescence as an indicator of in vivo red cell lipid peroxidation. Repetitive injection of phenylhydrazine or acetylphenylhydrazine in rats resulted in gradually increasing levels of fluorescence despite the return in hematocrit toward normal. Chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 of lipid-containing extracts obtained from the red cells of rats and rabbits treated with phenylhydrazine revealed fluorescent peaks similar to those observed in red cell lipid incubated with MDA. In addition, increased levels of fluorescence were observed in the extracts of red cells obtained from three vitamin E--deficient premature infants. These findings suggest that the fluorescence assay is a sensitive indicator of in vivo red cell lipid peroxidation.", "PMID": 429867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_185", "title": "Effect of carbon tetrachloride on extrarenal erythropoietin production in rats.", "content": "Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy is associated with an increase in extrarenal Ep production; however, this surgical procedure is time-consuming and difficult to standardize. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) ingestion in rats is an easy and reproducible way to induce liver damage and regeneration. We therefore studied the effects of CCl4 on extrarenal Ep production in rats. Just as is the case following partial hepatectomy, extrarenal Ep production in response to hypoxia was reduced immediately after ingestion of CCl4. Thereafter it rose to supranormal levels which peaked 3 to 4 days after CCl4 ingestion (at this time Ep titers of nephrectomized, CCl4-fed rats rose to greater than 1.0 U/ml of plasma after exposure to 0.42 atmosphere for 7 hr). Extrarenal Ep production then declined, but was still supranormal 7 days after CCl4. Carbon tetrachloride did not significantly affect extrarenal Ep production in rats nephrectomized 18 hr prior to initiation of hypoxia even if they received injections of renin prior to being made hypoxic, nor did it affect Ep production in response to hypoxia in nonnephrectomized rats under the conditions used in this study.", "contents": "Effect of carbon tetrachloride on extrarenal erythropoietin production in rats. Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy is associated with an increase in extrarenal Ep production; however, this surgical procedure is time-consuming and difficult to standardize. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) ingestion in rats is an easy and reproducible way to induce liver damage and regeneration. We therefore studied the effects of CCl4 on extrarenal Ep production in rats. Just as is the case following partial hepatectomy, extrarenal Ep production in response to hypoxia was reduced immediately after ingestion of CCl4. Thereafter it rose to supranormal levels which peaked 3 to 4 days after CCl4 ingestion (at this time Ep titers of nephrectomized, CCl4-fed rats rose to greater than 1.0 U/ml of plasma after exposure to 0.42 atmosphere for 7 hr). Extrarenal Ep production then declined, but was still supranormal 7 days after CCl4. Carbon tetrachloride did not significantly affect extrarenal Ep production in rats nephrectomized 18 hr prior to initiation of hypoxia even if they received injections of renin prior to being made hypoxic, nor did it affect Ep production in response to hypoxia in nonnephrectomized rats under the conditions used in this study.", "PMID": 429868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_186", "title": "The effect of complete biliary obstruction on bile flow and bile acid excretion: postcholestatic choleresis in the rat.", "content": "Bile secretory function was studied in rats subjected to a 7-day obstructive cholestasis induced by complete common duct obstruction. Bile flow and bile acid excretion were examined during bile depletion, following the release of the biliary obstruction, and during the infusion of sodium taurocholate at submaximal and saturating rates. A highly significant increase, greater than 100%, in bile flow was evident in cholestatic rats at any bile acid excretory rate, when compared to control sham-operated rats. 14C-erythritol clearance measurements performed during bile depletion and during the infusion of taurocholate suggest that bile flow was mainly of canalicular origin in cholestatic rats. Estimated taurocholate transport maximum (mumol/min per rat) was not statistically different between cholestatic and control rats. However, significantly greater taurocholate plasma levels at Tm in cholestatic rats suggest a decreased efficiency of the bile acid transport process. In addition, the relationship between bile flow and bile acid excretion was found to be nonlinear at low bile acid excretory rates in cholestatic rats. Thus important changes in bile formation occurred in rats subjected to temporary obstructive cholestatis, which differ from those observed in other models of cholestasis that are associated to a reduction in bile flow and bile acid transport capacity.", "contents": "The effect of complete biliary obstruction on bile flow and bile acid excretion: postcholestatic choleresis in the rat. Bile secretory function was studied in rats subjected to a 7-day obstructive cholestasis induced by complete common duct obstruction. Bile flow and bile acid excretion were examined during bile depletion, following the release of the biliary obstruction, and during the infusion of sodium taurocholate at submaximal and saturating rates. A highly significant increase, greater than 100%, in bile flow was evident in cholestatic rats at any bile acid excretory rate, when compared to control sham-operated rats. 14C-erythritol clearance measurements performed during bile depletion and during the infusion of taurocholate suggest that bile flow was mainly of canalicular origin in cholestatic rats. Estimated taurocholate transport maximum (mumol/min per rat) was not statistically different between cholestatic and control rats. However, significantly greater taurocholate plasma levels at Tm in cholestatic rats suggest a decreased efficiency of the bile acid transport process. In addition, the relationship between bile flow and bile acid excretion was found to be nonlinear at low bile acid excretory rates in cholestatic rats. Thus important changes in bile formation occurred in rats subjected to temporary obstructive cholestatis, which differ from those observed in other models of cholestasis that are associated to a reduction in bile flow and bile acid transport capacity.", "PMID": 429869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_187", "title": "Quantitative determination of 4-N-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-L-asparagine in the urine of patients with aspartylglycosaminuria by gas-liquid chromatography.", "content": "A specific and sensitive method for the quantitative ;determination of glcNAc-Asn in the urine of patients with inherited deficiency of the lysosomal hydrolase N-aspartyl-beta-glucosaminidase is reported. The method is based on GLC assay of GlcNAc-Asn as its methylated derivative and requires 100 microliter of urine. The mean urinary excretion of GlcNAc-Asn in 14 AGU patients was 0.99 mmol/24 hr (range 0.15 to 1.88). Young patients had similar urinary levels of GlcNAc-Asn to those of the older ones when the results were calculated on the basis of creatinine excretion. Mass fragmentographic analysis revealed the presence of minimal amounts of GlcNAc-Asn in normal urine also. In four of the eight normal subjects studied, a rough quantitative estimation was feasible; the urinary output of GlcNAc-Asn in these subjects ranged from approximately 0.001 to 0.01 mmol/24 hr.", "contents": "Quantitative determination of 4-N-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-L-asparagine in the urine of patients with aspartylglycosaminuria by gas-liquid chromatography. A specific and sensitive method for the quantitative ;determination of glcNAc-Asn in the urine of patients with inherited deficiency of the lysosomal hydrolase N-aspartyl-beta-glucosaminidase is reported. The method is based on GLC assay of GlcNAc-Asn as its methylated derivative and requires 100 microliter of urine. The mean urinary excretion of GlcNAc-Asn in 14 AGU patients was 0.99 mmol/24 hr (range 0.15 to 1.88). Young patients had similar urinary levels of GlcNAc-Asn to those of the older ones when the results were calculated on the basis of creatinine excretion. Mass fragmentographic analysis revealed the presence of minimal amounts of GlcNAc-Asn in normal urine also. In four of the eight normal subjects studied, a rough quantitative estimation was feasible; the urinary output of GlcNAc-Asn in these subjects ranged from approximately 0.001 to 0.01 mmol/24 hr.", "PMID": 429870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_188", "title": "The effect of extremely high sodium intake on plasma renin activity, plasma aldosterone concentration, and urinary excretion of aldosterone metabolites.", "content": "The effect of sodium intake on aldosterone production was examined in eight healthy men whose urinary sodium excretion approached their dietary sodium intake at levels of 10, 300, 800 and 1500 mEq sodium/day. Aldosterone secretion was estimated from the excretion rate of two aldosterone metabolites: Thaldo and aldosterone-18-glucuronide. Maximal suppression of aldosterone secretion appeared to have been reached when sodium intake was 800 mEq/day, since no further decrease in aldosteron metabolite excretion rates was observed at 1500 mEq/day dietary sodium. Both plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were suppressed and approached or were below the detection limits of the respective radioimmunoassays when sodium intake reached 800 and 1500 mEq/day. Body weight and blood pressure significantly increased at each increment of sodium intake. Our findings show that when sodium intake is extremely high, aldosterone secretion does not decrease to zero but continues at a rate we estimate to be 10 to 30 microgram/day. We suggest that this nonsuppressible secretion of aldosterone may have contributed to the observed increases in weight and blood pressure.", "contents": "The effect of extremely high sodium intake on plasma renin activity, plasma aldosterone concentration, and urinary excretion of aldosterone metabolites. The effect of sodium intake on aldosterone production was examined in eight healthy men whose urinary sodium excretion approached their dietary sodium intake at levels of 10, 300, 800 and 1500 mEq sodium/day. Aldosterone secretion was estimated from the excretion rate of two aldosterone metabolites: Thaldo and aldosterone-18-glucuronide. Maximal suppression of aldosterone secretion appeared to have been reached when sodium intake was 800 mEq/day, since no further decrease in aldosteron metabolite excretion rates was observed at 1500 mEq/day dietary sodium. Both plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were suppressed and approached or were below the detection limits of the respective radioimmunoassays when sodium intake reached 800 and 1500 mEq/day. Body weight and blood pressure significantly increased at each increment of sodium intake. Our findings show that when sodium intake is extremely high, aldosterone secretion does not decrease to zero but continues at a rate we estimate to be 10 to 30 microgram/day. We suggest that this nonsuppressible secretion of aldosterone may have contributed to the observed increases in weight and blood pressure.", "PMID": 429871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_189", "title": "Human plasma P component (protein AP): changes during growth and development and evidence for hepatocellular synthesis.", "content": "A monospecific rabbit antibody to human plasma P component was used in a quantitative immunoelectrophoretic system. The assay readily detected levels as low as 0.3 microgram/ml, the equivalent of 0.008 U/ml of a normal plasma pool. he average coefficient of variation of duplicate determinations from five sets of nine dilution points of normal plasma was 6.6%. Among normal individuals, groups of 50 adults, 24 children, and 43 term and preterm newborns were each significantly different (p less than 0.001) and the level was positively correlated with age. Three fetal samples of approximately 20 weeks' gestation were near the lower limit of detection of the assay. P component levels in selected groups of patients demonstrated a 1.5 fold elevation of the mean level in 15 patients with high erythrocyte sedimentation rates, no difference in the mean level of 23 patients on warfarin or 16 patients with plasma cell dyscrasia or chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and a depression of the mean level to one fourth of normal in 14 patients with alcoholic liver disease. Among the latter, the prolongation of the prothrombin time was correlated with the depression of P component (p less than 0.05). Conditioned media, even after 10-fold concentration, and lysed cell fractions of cultured adult fibroblasts, B and T lymphocytes, and endothelial and smooth muscle cells failed to demonstrate P component. Circulating levels of P component increase during growth and development to adult life and the hepatocyte is the most likely site of synthesis. Although homologous in structure, C-reactive protein levels are distinguished by their marked response to inflammation and their elevation in most of the patients with hepatocellular damage.", "contents": "Human plasma P component (protein AP): changes during growth and development and evidence for hepatocellular synthesis. A monospecific rabbit antibody to human plasma P component was used in a quantitative immunoelectrophoretic system. The assay readily detected levels as low as 0.3 microgram/ml, the equivalent of 0.008 U/ml of a normal plasma pool. he average coefficient of variation of duplicate determinations from five sets of nine dilution points of normal plasma was 6.6%. Among normal individuals, groups of 50 adults, 24 children, and 43 term and preterm newborns were each significantly different (p less than 0.001) and the level was positively correlated with age. Three fetal samples of approximately 20 weeks' gestation were near the lower limit of detection of the assay. P component levels in selected groups of patients demonstrated a 1.5 fold elevation of the mean level in 15 patients with high erythrocyte sedimentation rates, no difference in the mean level of 23 patients on warfarin or 16 patients with plasma cell dyscrasia or chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and a depression of the mean level to one fourth of normal in 14 patients with alcoholic liver disease. Among the latter, the prolongation of the prothrombin time was correlated with the depression of P component (p less than 0.05). Conditioned media, even after 10-fold concentration, and lysed cell fractions of cultured adult fibroblasts, B and T lymphocytes, and endothelial and smooth muscle cells failed to demonstrate P component. Circulating levels of P component increase during growth and development to adult life and the hepatocyte is the most likely site of synthesis. Although homologous in structure, C-reactive protein levels are distinguished by their marked response to inflammation and their elevation in most of the patients with hepatocellular damage.", "PMID": 429872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_190", "title": "Metabolic studies in two families with hyperornithinemia and gyrate atrophy of choroid and retina.", "content": "Studies on the metabolism of selected amino acids were carried out in five patients with gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina and four obligate heterozygotes. Hyperornithinemia, hyperornithinuria, and hypolysinemia were found in all patients. In one of the patients, the condition was diagnosed as early as 4 years of age. Ornithine loadings in the affected individuals did not induce the expected elevation of plasma glutamic acid and proline. Oral lysine tolerance tests in patients resulted in (1) enhancement of the hyperornithinuria and hyperlysinuria and (2) elevation of plasma lysine levels, which were below values obtained from normal controls. Supplementation of the regular diet with lysine for a period of 1 month increased plasma lysine but had no effect on plasma ornithine concentration.", "contents": "Metabolic studies in two families with hyperornithinemia and gyrate atrophy of choroid and retina. Studies on the metabolism of selected amino acids were carried out in five patients with gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina and four obligate heterozygotes. Hyperornithinemia, hyperornithinuria, and hypolysinemia were found in all patients. In one of the patients, the condition was diagnosed as early as 4 years of age. Ornithine loadings in the affected individuals did not induce the expected elevation of plasma glutamic acid and proline. Oral lysine tolerance tests in patients resulted in (1) enhancement of the hyperornithinuria and hyperlysinuria and (2) elevation of plasma lysine levels, which were below values obtained from normal controls. Supplementation of the regular diet with lysine for a period of 1 month increased plasma lysine but had no effect on plasma ornithine concentration.", "PMID": 429873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_191", "title": "Regulation of fibrinogen biosynthesis: effect of fibrin degradation products, low-molecular-weight peptides of fibrinogenolysis, and fibrinopeptides A and B.", "content": "Fibrinogen synthesis in rabbits was evaluated following intravenous infusions of stage 3 degradation products of homologous fibrinogen or fibrin, prepared in vitro. Fibrinogen production was measured by determining the rate of appearance of 75SeM into circulating fibrinogen. Fibrinogen synthesis increased threefold after the administration of stage 3 FDP (D and E), dialyzed to remove LMW digestion fragments, In contrast, the fdp obtained by plasminolysis of crosslinked thrombin clots or of noncrosslinked ancrod or thrombin clots failed to enhance basal fibrinogen production. Accelerated fibrinogen production was not accompanied by alterations in haptoglobin concentration or by increased incorporation of 75SeM into haptoglobin. Fibrinogen synthesis was not increased after infusions of FPA and FPB.", "contents": "Regulation of fibrinogen biosynthesis: effect of fibrin degradation products, low-molecular-weight peptides of fibrinogenolysis, and fibrinopeptides A and B. Fibrinogen synthesis in rabbits was evaluated following intravenous infusions of stage 3 degradation products of homologous fibrinogen or fibrin, prepared in vitro. Fibrinogen production was measured by determining the rate of appearance of 75SeM into circulating fibrinogen. Fibrinogen synthesis increased threefold after the administration of stage 3 FDP (D and E), dialyzed to remove LMW digestion fragments, In contrast, the fdp obtained by plasminolysis of crosslinked thrombin clots or of noncrosslinked ancrod or thrombin clots failed to enhance basal fibrinogen production. Accelerated fibrinogen production was not accompanied by alterations in haptoglobin concentration or by increased incorporation of 75SeM into haptoglobin. Fibrinogen synthesis was not increased after infusions of FPA and FPB.", "PMID": 429874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_192", "title": "Genetically determined deficiency of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (type-A-) is expressed in the liver.", "content": "G6PD activity was determined in liver biopsy specimens from 31 patients (25 men and six women). The G6PD genotype of the patients was determined by carrying out on lysates of their red blood cells quantitative assays of the enzyme and starch-gel electrophoresis. In 21 subjects with normal G6PD activity in red cells, a relatively wide variation of G6PD activity was found in liver extracts. By contrast, in 10 subjects with G6PD deficiency, the activity of the enzyme in liver extracts was always low. The difference between the distribution of liver G6PD activity values of G6PD-normal and G6PD-deficient subjects was statistically significant (p less than 0.01). We conclude that G6PD deficiency of the African type is also expressed in the liver. These findings may have a bearing on hyperibilirubinemia, which cannot be entirely attributed to hemolysis, often encountered in G6PD-deficient patients.", "contents": "Genetically determined deficiency of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (type-A-) is expressed in the liver. G6PD activity was determined in liver biopsy specimens from 31 patients (25 men and six women). The G6PD genotype of the patients was determined by carrying out on lysates of their red blood cells quantitative assays of the enzyme and starch-gel electrophoresis. In 21 subjects with normal G6PD activity in red cells, a relatively wide variation of G6PD activity was found in liver extracts. By contrast, in 10 subjects with G6PD deficiency, the activity of the enzyme in liver extracts was always low. The difference between the distribution of liver G6PD activity values of G6PD-normal and G6PD-deficient subjects was statistically significant (p less than 0.01). We conclude that G6PD deficiency of the African type is also expressed in the liver. These findings may have a bearing on hyperibilirubinemia, which cannot be entirely attributed to hemolysis, often encountered in G6PD-deficient patients.", "PMID": 429875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_193", "title": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. 1. Antigen-dependent inhibition and antigen-independent inhibition and enhancement of migration.", "content": "The effects of DLE containing TFd activity from immune human donors on PBL, obtained from individuals nonresponsive to either PPD or Cocci antigen, were evaluated in vitro by the agarose LMl technique. Several different preparations of DLE were employed to evaluate the specificity and reproducibility of the effects: (1) from donors skin test positive to PPD but negative to Cocci, (2) from donors skin test negative to PPD but positive to Cocci, (3) from donors skin test positive to both antigens, and (4) from donors skin test negative to both antigens. With PBL from other human donors used as target cells in the direct agarose LMi technique, three types of effects were demonstrated for all preparations of DLE: (1) antigen-dependent specific LMl, (2) antigen-independent or nonspecific LMl, and (3) antigen-independent enhancement of migration. The demonstration of each activity was found to depend on the concentration of DLE used and the time allowed for migration. In experiments employing purified PMN and MNL as target cells and a two-step indirect LMl assay, it was shown that the antigen-independent effects resulted from the direct of components in DLE on PMN. The antigen-independent inhibition was shown not to result from toxic effects of DLE. It was produced by DLE but not by dialyzable liver or skin extracts when tested using an amount equivalent to DLE as judged by the absorbance at 260 and 280 nm. The antigen-dependent LMl was found to require secretion of a soluble mediator of molecular weight near 69,000, believed to be LMl. Our results indicate that the agarose LMl technique is a useful in vitro assay for studies of the mechanism of action of components in DLE which can specifically convert nonimmune lymphocytes to a measurable antigen-sensitive state (i.e., transfer factor). The antigen-independent effects of DLE may be responsible in part for previously reported nonspecific beneficial effects of DLE when used in immunotherapy.", "contents": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. 1. Antigen-dependent inhibition and antigen-independent inhibition and enhancement of migration. The effects of DLE containing TFd activity from immune human donors on PBL, obtained from individuals nonresponsive to either PPD or Cocci antigen, were evaluated in vitro by the agarose LMl technique. Several different preparations of DLE were employed to evaluate the specificity and reproducibility of the effects: (1) from donors skin test positive to PPD but negative to Cocci, (2) from donors skin test negative to PPD but positive to Cocci, (3) from donors skin test positive to both antigens, and (4) from donors skin test negative to both antigens. With PBL from other human donors used as target cells in the direct agarose LMi technique, three types of effects were demonstrated for all preparations of DLE: (1) antigen-dependent specific LMl, (2) antigen-independent or nonspecific LMl, and (3) antigen-independent enhancement of migration. The demonstration of each activity was found to depend on the concentration of DLE used and the time allowed for migration. In experiments employing purified PMN and MNL as target cells and a two-step indirect LMl assay, it was shown that the antigen-independent effects resulted from the direct of components in DLE on PMN. The antigen-independent inhibition was shown not to result from toxic effects of DLE. It was produced by DLE but not by dialyzable liver or skin extracts when tested using an amount equivalent to DLE as judged by the absorbance at 260 and 280 nm. The antigen-dependent LMl was found to require secretion of a soluble mediator of molecular weight near 69,000, believed to be LMl. Our results indicate that the agarose LMl technique is a useful in vitro assay for studies of the mechanism of action of components in DLE which can specifically convert nonimmune lymphocytes to a measurable antigen-sensitive state (i.e., transfer factor). The antigen-independent effects of DLE may be responsible in part for previously reported nonspecific beneficial effects of DLE when used in immunotherapy.", "PMID": 429876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_194", "title": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. II. Separation and partial characterization of the components in DLE producing antigen-dependent and antigen-independent effects.", "content": "Previous studies have shown that DLEs with TFd activity produce both Ag-dependent specific effects (mediated by TFd) and Ag-independent effects on CMl as demonstrated in vitro by agarose LMl. In the present study, Sephadex G-25 gel filtration provided a simple method for separating the DLE components responsible for each effect into distinct fractions. Ag-independent LMl was produced predominantly by Sephadex fraction l, of MW greater than 5000. The active components, further purified on Bio-Gel P-10, were shown to be of MW 14,000 to 17,000 and to contain both polypeptide and ribonucliotide material. The Ag-independent LMl activity was stable to heating at 56 degrees C for 30 min but was partially destroyed at 80 degrees C for 30 min, and the responsible components were shown to act on PMN directly. Ag-independent ELM was produced exclusively by material in Sephadex G-25 fraction V and also acted directly on PMN, whereas the Ag-dependent specific LMl activity was found predominantly in fraction lVb and to a lesser extent in fraction V and could not be detected in a direct assay using only PMN. In addition, a new activity, designated \"Ag-dependent ELM activity,\" which caused increased migration in the presence of Ag, was found in Sephadex fraction lVa. This latter activity might mask the Ag-dependent LMl activity in fraciton lVb. Bio-Gel P-2 chromatography separated the components producing Ag-dependent and Ag-independent effects in fraction V into two separate subfractions (Va and Vb) of MW 1100 to 2000 and less than 900. The activity in fraction lVb eluted at a position identical to that of the components in fraction Va on Bio-Gel P-2. Fractions Va and Vb contained both polypeptide and ribonucleotide material. The Ag-dependent specific LMl or TFd activity was found to be partially inactivated at 56 degrees C and completely destroyed at 80 degrees C. The components responsible for this TFd activity were further purified by HPLC on ODS resin. The TFd activity was mediated by components with retention times much greater than that of adenosine 3'-monophosphate. The active fraction was composed of both polypeptide and ribonucleotide material but did not contain deoxyribonucleotides.", "contents": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. II. Separation and partial characterization of the components in DLE producing antigen-dependent and antigen-independent effects. Previous studies have shown that DLEs with TFd activity produce both Ag-dependent specific effects (mediated by TFd) and Ag-independent effects on CMl as demonstrated in vitro by agarose LMl. In the present study, Sephadex G-25 gel filtration provided a simple method for separating the DLE components responsible for each effect into distinct fractions. Ag-independent LMl was produced predominantly by Sephadex fraction l, of MW greater than 5000. The active components, further purified on Bio-Gel P-10, were shown to be of MW 14,000 to 17,000 and to contain both polypeptide and ribonucliotide material. The Ag-independent LMl activity was stable to heating at 56 degrees C for 30 min but was partially destroyed at 80 degrees C for 30 min, and the responsible components were shown to act on PMN directly. Ag-independent ELM was produced exclusively by material in Sephadex G-25 fraction V and also acted directly on PMN, whereas the Ag-dependent specific LMl activity was found predominantly in fraction lVb and to a lesser extent in fraction V and could not be detected in a direct assay using only PMN. In addition, a new activity, designated \"Ag-dependent ELM activity,\" which caused increased migration in the presence of Ag, was found in Sephadex fraction lVa. This latter activity might mask the Ag-dependent LMl activity in fraciton lVb. Bio-Gel P-2 chromatography separated the components producing Ag-dependent and Ag-independent effects in fraction V into two separate subfractions (Va and Vb) of MW 1100 to 2000 and less than 900. The activity in fraction lVb eluted at a position identical to that of the components in fraction Va on Bio-Gel P-2. Fractions Va and Vb contained both polypeptide and ribonucleotide material. The Ag-dependent specific LMl or TFd activity was found to be partially inactivated at 56 degrees C and completely destroyed at 80 degrees C. The components responsible for this TFd activity were further purified by HPLC on ODS resin. The TFd activity was mediated by components with retention times much greater than that of adenosine 3'-monophosphate. The active fraction was composed of both polypeptide and ribonucleotide material but did not contain deoxyribonucleotides.", "PMID": 429877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_195", "title": "Deoxyhemoglobin S gelation and insolubility at high ionic strength are distinct phenomena.", "content": "Deoxyhemoglobin S in solution forms a solid phase either in solutions of high ionic strength or in solutions of low ionic strength but a high hemoglobin concentrations. Presently, both techniques are in use to study various hemoglobin interactions which might occur during sickling of Hb S-containing red cells. When Hb S is treated with either nitrogen mustard or cyanate, there is no correlation between high-ionic-strength salting out and low-ionic-strength gelation studies. These results suggest that salting out studies are not equivalent to the assays that depend on the gelation of polymerization of Hb S.", "contents": "Deoxyhemoglobin S gelation and insolubility at high ionic strength are distinct phenomena. Deoxyhemoglobin S in solution forms a solid phase either in solutions of high ionic strength or in solutions of low ionic strength but a high hemoglobin concentrations. Presently, both techniques are in use to study various hemoglobin interactions which might occur during sickling of Hb S-containing red cells. When Hb S is treated with either nitrogen mustard or cyanate, there is no correlation between high-ionic-strength salting out and low-ionic-strength gelation studies. These results suggest that salting out studies are not equivalent to the assays that depend on the gelation of polymerization of Hb S.", "PMID": 429878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_196", "title": "Glucocorticoid-mediated inhibition of erythroid colony formation by mouse bone marrow cells.", "content": "The ability of bone marrow cells, obtained from mice pretreated with the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone, to form erythroid colonies in vitro was studied. The results show that these bone marrow cells form a reduced number of erythroid colonies in vitro in response to Epo. This effect is evident after single injection (1 mg, intraperitoneally) of dexamethasone (46% of control values) and is at a maximum after two to four consecutive treatments (12% to 17% of control values). In order to eliminate the influence of either influx or efflux of cells to or from the bone marrow, the effect of dexamethasone on erythroid colony formation in vitro was examined. In these experiments, bone marrow cells cultured in the presence of Epo (25 microU) and dexamethasone (2 X 10(-6)M to 2 X 10(-8)M) formed fewer erythroid colonies than cells cultured in the presence of Epo alone. The ability of the antiglucocorticoid, 17 alpha-methyltestosterone (2 X 10(-7)M) to reverse this dexamethasone-mediated inhibition of erythroid colony formation suggests that this phenomenon is mediated through a glucocorticoid receptor. These studies show therefore that dexamethasone, either in vivo or in vitro, decreases the number and/or functional capacity of adult murine bone marrow cells capable of forming erythroid colonies in vitro in response to Epo, although the precise mechanism of this inhibition remains to be established.", "contents": "Glucocorticoid-mediated inhibition of erythroid colony formation by mouse bone marrow cells. The ability of bone marrow cells, obtained from mice pretreated with the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone, to form erythroid colonies in vitro was studied. The results show that these bone marrow cells form a reduced number of erythroid colonies in vitro in response to Epo. This effect is evident after single injection (1 mg, intraperitoneally) of dexamethasone (46% of control values) and is at a maximum after two to four consecutive treatments (12% to 17% of control values). In order to eliminate the influence of either influx or efflux of cells to or from the bone marrow, the effect of dexamethasone on erythroid colony formation in vitro was examined. In these experiments, bone marrow cells cultured in the presence of Epo (25 microU) and dexamethasone (2 X 10(-6)M to 2 X 10(-8)M) formed fewer erythroid colonies than cells cultured in the presence of Epo alone. The ability of the antiglucocorticoid, 17 alpha-methyltestosterone (2 X 10(-7)M) to reverse this dexamethasone-mediated inhibition of erythroid colony formation suggests that this phenomenon is mediated through a glucocorticoid receptor. These studies show therefore that dexamethasone, either in vivo or in vitro, decreases the number and/or functional capacity of adult murine bone marrow cells capable of forming erythroid colonies in vitro in response to Epo, although the precise mechanism of this inhibition remains to be established.", "PMID": 429879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_197", "title": "A new occult blood test not subject to false-negative results from reducing substances.", "content": "A new stool occult blood test is described with improved sensitivity (more true positives) and specificity (fewer false negatives; more true negatives) than other clinically available procedures. The procedure chemically separates heme from globin and extracts heme into ethyl acetate, where a colorimetric reaction gives semiquantitative estimation of hemoglobin. The test is based on the retention of heme pseudoperoxidase activity in the ethyl acetate. Specifically, peroxide is degraded by heme to superoxide radicals which oxidize a chromophore to a colored compound. Various diamino and other chromogens are evaluated, and a new reagent, the noncarcinogenic diamino compound TMB is recommended for routine use. False positives may account for two thirds of all positives in routine screening. In addition, special diets and time delays due to dietary restrictions are avoided in this test. The test is also inexpensive and easy to perform. A technologist can perform 30 or more tests per hour.", "contents": "A new occult blood test not subject to false-negative results from reducing substances. A new stool occult blood test is described with improved sensitivity (more true positives) and specificity (fewer false negatives; more true negatives) than other clinically available procedures. The procedure chemically separates heme from globin and extracts heme into ethyl acetate, where a colorimetric reaction gives semiquantitative estimation of hemoglobin. The test is based on the retention of heme pseudoperoxidase activity in the ethyl acetate. Specifically, peroxide is degraded by heme to superoxide radicals which oxidize a chromophore to a colored compound. Various diamino and other chromogens are evaluated, and a new reagent, the noncarcinogenic diamino compound TMB is recommended for routine use. False positives may account for two thirds of all positives in routine screening. In addition, special diets and time delays due to dietary restrictions are avoided in this test. The test is also inexpensive and easy to perform. A technologist can perform 30 or more tests per hour.", "PMID": 429880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_198", "title": "Rhinitis caseosa in Nigeria.", "content": "13 cases or rhinitis caseosa in Nigerians are presented. A review of the literature was made to highlight the historical background and the aetiological factors responsible for the formation of the characteristic foul, malodorous, cheese-like mass of rhinitis caseosa. Even thought the clinical features of this unusual malady are unique, it has to be differentiated from carcinoma of the nose, ethmoids and maxillary antrum. The prognosis is excellent if treatment is undertaken early.", "contents": "Rhinitis caseosa in Nigeria. 13 cases or rhinitis caseosa in Nigerians are presented. A review of the literature was made to highlight the historical background and the aetiological factors responsible for the formation of the characteristic foul, malodorous, cheese-like mass of rhinitis caseosa. Even thought the clinical features of this unusual malady are unique, it has to be differentiated from carcinoma of the nose, ethmoids and maxillary antrum. The prognosis is excellent if treatment is undertaken early.", "PMID": 429883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_199", "title": "Iron deficiency in children undergoing adenoid-tonsillectomy.", "content": "Following a preliminary study of peripheral blood values in 30 children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, a biochemical survey of the iron status of another 108 children also undergoing this operation was made utilizing an automated micro-method. It was shown that 8.4% of these children were frankly iron-deficient but there was no statistical relationship between the levels of serum iron and iron-binding capacity, the incidence of throat infections and the levels of the plasma immunoglobulins. Assessment of all children undergoing this operation for the presence of iron deficiency is advocated as a possible routine screening procedure.", "contents": "Iron deficiency in children undergoing adenoid-tonsillectomy. Following a preliminary study of peripheral blood values in 30 children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, a biochemical survey of the iron status of another 108 children also undergoing this operation was made utilizing an automated micro-method. It was shown that 8.4% of these children were frankly iron-deficient but there was no statistical relationship between the levels of serum iron and iron-binding capacity, the incidence of throat infections and the levels of the plasma immunoglobulins. Assessment of all children undergoing this operation for the presence of iron deficiency is advocated as a possible routine screening procedure.", "PMID": 429884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_200", "title": "Combined treatment of concurrent laryngeal and tracheal stenosis.", "content": "This report describes a one-stage combined surgical procedure for laryngeal and tracheal stenosis presenting concurrently. The technique links together three new procedures. Autogenous hyoid bone transposition on a muscle pedicle for reconstruction of the larynx, together with implantation of a silicone T-tube in conjunction with a custom-carved silicone stent, for maintenance and resurfacing of both strictures. This technique has produced satisfactory results in four cases. In two of the patients there is sufficient follow-up to indicate the efficacy of this method.", "contents": "Combined treatment of concurrent laryngeal and tracheal stenosis. This report describes a one-stage combined surgical procedure for laryngeal and tracheal stenosis presenting concurrently. The technique links together three new procedures. Autogenous hyoid bone transposition on a muscle pedicle for reconstruction of the larynx, together with implantation of a silicone T-tube in conjunction with a custom-carved silicone stent, for maintenance and resurfacing of both strictures. This technique has produced satisfactory results in four cases. In two of the patients there is sufficient follow-up to indicate the efficacy of this method.", "PMID": 429885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_201", "title": "An evaluation of the use of scanning and transmission electronmicroscopy in a study of the gentamicin-damaged guinea-pig organ of Corti.", "content": "Scanning electronmicroscopy and transmission electronmicroscopy were used to study the normal and gentamicin-damaged guinea-pig organ of Corti. Scanning electronmicroscopy was principally used to locate the lesion and quantify the cell loss but also permitted and detailed study to be made of the degenerative surface changes. However, since consistent surface changes are not seen until intracellular degeneration has progressed to a great extent, scanning electronmicroscopy is not a suitable technique for identifying early degenerative changes in the sensory cells of the organ of Corti. Consequently, before conclusions may be drawn about the absence of pathological changes in the neuro-epithelium it also should be examined using transmission electron-miscroscopy.", "contents": "An evaluation of the use of scanning and transmission electronmicroscopy in a study of the gentamicin-damaged guinea-pig organ of Corti. Scanning electronmicroscopy and transmission electronmicroscopy were used to study the normal and gentamicin-damaged guinea-pig organ of Corti. Scanning electronmicroscopy was principally used to locate the lesion and quantify the cell loss but also permitted and detailed study to be made of the degenerative surface changes. However, since consistent surface changes are not seen until intracellular degeneration has progressed to a great extent, scanning electronmicroscopy is not a suitable technique for identifying early degenerative changes in the sensory cells of the organ of Corti. Consequently, before conclusions may be drawn about the absence of pathological changes in the neuro-epithelium it also should be examined using transmission electron-miscroscopy.", "PMID": 429887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_202", "title": "Juvenile fibrous hamartoma of the pharynx.", "content": "A case of juvenile fibrous hamartoma of the pharynx in a three-year-old boy is described. It is a rare tumour, mostly occurring in the subcutaneous tissues in the infant. A pharyngeal localisation has not been described before. Complete local excision appeared sufficient for cure.", "contents": "Juvenile fibrous hamartoma of the pharynx. A case of juvenile fibrous hamartoma of the pharynx in a three-year-old boy is described. It is a rare tumour, mostly occurring in the subcutaneous tissues in the infant. A pharyngeal localisation has not been described before. Complete local excision appeared sufficient for cure.", "PMID": 429888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_203", "title": "Chronic stenosis of the larynx in children.", "content": "Severe laryngeal stenosis in children can be corrected successfully with surgery. Re-canalization of the larynx allows for nasal respiration, reduces the danger of respiratory infections, contributes to improved tissue oxygenation, and stimulates the child's psychosomatic development. Contrary to prior otolarngeal approaches to laryngeal stenosis in children, it has been shown that surgery does not hinder the growth of the larynx, but rather stimulates the normalization of laryngeal function; and this function itself stimulates laryngeal skeleton. It is important that surgery be performed as soon as possible in order to avoid an erroneous functional mechanism which is difficult to correct later. This can also lead to chronic irreversible atrophic and fibrotic processes in the laryngeal mucosa.", "contents": "Chronic stenosis of the larynx in children. Severe laryngeal stenosis in children can be corrected successfully with surgery. Re-canalization of the larynx allows for nasal respiration, reduces the danger of respiratory infections, contributes to improved tissue oxygenation, and stimulates the child's psychosomatic development. Contrary to prior otolarngeal approaches to laryngeal stenosis in children, it has been shown that surgery does not hinder the growth of the larynx, but rather stimulates the normalization of laryngeal function; and this function itself stimulates laryngeal skeleton. It is important that surgery be performed as soon as possible in order to avoid an erroneous functional mechanism which is difficult to correct later. This can also lead to chronic irreversible atrophic and fibrotic processes in the laryngeal mucosa.", "PMID": 429889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_204", "title": "Herpes zoster of the larynx--how common?", "content": "Herpes zoster of the larynx is considered to be rare, but on reviewing the literature it is noted that some authors considered it to be more common than already acclaimed. Herpes may prove to be a common cause of cord palsies presently labelled as idiopathic and serological tests for herpes should be asked for. Of note is the fact that the cord palsy of a herpetic lesion can be short-lived and that earache is a common symptom. In this paper four cases of herpes laryngis are presented. It is advised that the larynx should be examined in all cases of herpes zoster of the head and neck.", "contents": "Herpes zoster of the larynx--how common? Herpes zoster of the larynx is considered to be rare, but on reviewing the literature it is noted that some authors considered it to be more common than already acclaimed. Herpes may prove to be a common cause of cord palsies presently labelled as idiopathic and serological tests for herpes should be asked for. Of note is the fact that the cord palsy of a herpetic lesion can be short-lived and that earache is a common symptom. In this paper four cases of herpes laryngis are presented. It is advised that the larynx should be examined in all cases of herpes zoster of the head and neck.", "PMID": 429891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_205", "title": "Beh\u00e7et's disease of the oesophagus.", "content": "A forty-two-year-old man known to have Beh\u00e7et's disease (two major and two minor symptoms) (Mason and Baines, 1969) presented with dysphagia, hoarseness and regurgitation of food. This was subsequently found to be due to a tracheo-oesphageal fistula consequent upon an area of Beh\u00e7et's ulceration in the oesophagus. The fistula was excised, the defects in the trachea and oesophagues repaired, and the patient's recovery was uneventful.", "contents": "Beh\u00e7et's disease of the oesophagus. A forty-two-year-old man known to have Beh\u00e7et's disease (two major and two minor symptoms) (Mason and Baines, 1969) presented with dysphagia, hoarseness and regurgitation of food. This was subsequently found to be due to a tracheo-oesphageal fistula consequent upon an area of Beh\u00e7et's ulceration in the oesophagus. The fistula was excised, the defects in the trachea and oesophagues repaired, and the patient's recovery was uneventful.", "PMID": 429892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_206", "title": "A cochlear implant round window electrode array.", "content": "This multiple-electrode array for round window cochlear implantation is a robust, reliable system for inserting 20 mm along the scala tympani with a minimum of trauma and can provide for bipolar stimulation.", "contents": "A cochlear implant round window electrode array. This multiple-electrode array for round window cochlear implantation is a robust, reliable system for inserting 20 mm along the scala tympani with a minimum of trauma and can provide for bipolar stimulation.", "PMID": 429893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_207", "title": "Carbamazepine in the treatment of objective myoclonus tinnitus.", "content": "Three patients have had objective clicking tinnitus which was demonstrated by using impedance audiometry. Additionally EMG studies to localize the contracting muscle were performed, and EEG recordings to find the possible focal cortical activity. One patient had central nervous degenerative lesions. Carbamazepine was given as the treatment. The results are encouraging: in all cases the clicks have almost totally disappeared, making normal living possible. When medication was discontinued, the symptoms reappeared.", "contents": "Carbamazepine in the treatment of objective myoclonus tinnitus. Three patients have had objective clicking tinnitus which was demonstrated by using impedance audiometry. Additionally EMG studies to localize the contracting muscle were performed, and EEG recordings to find the possible focal cortical activity. One patient had central nervous degenerative lesions. Carbamazepine was given as the treatment. The results are encouraging: in all cases the clicks have almost totally disappeared, making normal living possible. When medication was discontinued, the symptoms reappeared.", "PMID": 429895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_208", "title": "Non-suppurative otitis media in children. (A retrospective study of 100 cases).", "content": "This is a retrospective study of 100 cases of non-suppurative otitis media among children who presented to the E.N.T. Department at Poole General Hospital between 1975 and 1978. Their histories, investigations and management are reported, with special emphasis on the significance of surgical treatment, and its value in the prognosis of such cases.", "contents": "Non-suppurative otitis media in children. (A retrospective study of 100 cases). This is a retrospective study of 100 cases of non-suppurative otitis media among children who presented to the E.N.T. Department at Poole General Hospital between 1975 and 1978. Their histories, investigations and management are reported, with special emphasis on the significance of surgical treatment, and its value in the prognosis of such cases.", "PMID": 429896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_209", "title": "Mucocele of the petrous apex.", "content": "The first case of a primary mucocele of the petrous apex is presented and the differential diagnosis is briefly discussed. Since this area is unavailable for direct examination, a thorough radiographic evaluation is essential. A mucocele should be suspected when a lytic lesion has a multiloculated appearance and when the contralateral petrous apex is highly pneumatized. Even then, a biopsy may still be needed to make a definitive diagnosis. The appropriate treatment for these cystic lesions is fistulization into a radical mastoid cavity or an exteriorized sphenoid sinus.", "contents": "Mucocele of the petrous apex. The first case of a primary mucocele of the petrous apex is presented and the differential diagnosis is briefly discussed. Since this area is unavailable for direct examination, a thorough radiographic evaluation is essential. A mucocele should be suspected when a lytic lesion has a multiloculated appearance and when the contralateral petrous apex is highly pneumatized. Even then, a biopsy may still be needed to make a definitive diagnosis. The appropriate treatment for these cystic lesions is fistulization into a radical mastoid cavity or an exteriorized sphenoid sinus.", "PMID": 429898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_210", "title": "Neurilemmoma of the vagus nerve: a case report.", "content": "A CASE of an unusually big neurilemmoma arising from the vagus nerve in the neck is presented in this paper. The tumour was so big that it could not be removed until its size had been reduced by the removal of about 15 cc of its fluid contents. The patient had a cardiac arrest on removal of the tumour, denoting probable stimulation of the vagus nerve leading to vagal arrest. His heart started, however, after resuscitative measures and he has not shown any residual cardiac abnormalities, thus indicating that the main vagal trunk was undamaged.", "contents": "Neurilemmoma of the vagus nerve: a case report. A CASE of an unusually big neurilemmoma arising from the vagus nerve in the neck is presented in this paper. The tumour was so big that it could not be removed until its size had been reduced by the removal of about 15 cc of its fluid contents. The patient had a cardiac arrest on removal of the tumour, denoting probable stimulation of the vagus nerve leading to vagal arrest. His heart started, however, after resuscitative measures and he has not shown any residual cardiac abnormalities, thus indicating that the main vagal trunk was undamaged.", "PMID": 429899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_211", "title": "Xanthoma disseminatum: its otolaryngological manifestations.", "content": "The otolaryngological manifestations of xanthoma disseminatum are discussed. A case is reported in which the voice was recovered by a laryngofissure operation. The author believes that this is the first occasion on which this operation has been performed for this condition.", "contents": "Xanthoma disseminatum: its otolaryngological manifestations. The otolaryngological manifestations of xanthoma disseminatum are discussed. A case is reported in which the voice was recovered by a laryngofissure operation. The author believes that this is the first occasion on which this operation has been performed for this condition.", "PMID": 429900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_212", "title": "Olfactory neuroblastoma: long-term survival.", "content": "Two cases of olfactory neuroblastoma have been described. A review of the aetiology, histopathology and radiological features has been undertaken. A regime of current treatment policy has been described.", "contents": "Olfactory neuroblastoma: long-term survival. Two cases of olfactory neuroblastoma have been described. A review of the aetiology, histopathology and radiological features has been undertaken. A regime of current treatment policy has been described.", "PMID": 429906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_213", "title": "Tracheo-graft fistulae following pharyngo-laryngo-oesophagectomy. A cause and its prevention.", "content": "Tracheo-graft fistulae developed in two patients who required intermittent positive pressure ventilation and intubation with conventional cuffed tracheostomy tubes following resection of post-cricoid carcinomata by pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy. Pressure necrosis of the posterior tracheal muscle and the anterior wall of the graft occurred as a direct result of compression of these structures between the tracheostomy cannula and air cuff, and the vertebral bodies at the thoracic inlet. This post-operative complication has not been encountered in subsequent resections since the introduction and routine use of a modified cuffed tracheostomy tube. The adjustable neck plate guards against trauma to the tracheostome, inadvertent intubation of one of the major bronchi in each individual patient and the siting of the cuff beyond the thoracic inlet. Unintentional over-inflation of air cuffs remains a hazard whereas only ambient air re-expands the foam cuff. This property of the cuff also ensures against surgical injury to the posterior tracheal wall during the operation. Pressure necrosis of the posterior tracheal wall by the main tracheostomy cannula is minimised by suitably modifying the curvature and length of the cannula for use in patients with end-tracheostomies.", "contents": "Tracheo-graft fistulae following pharyngo-laryngo-oesophagectomy. A cause and its prevention. Tracheo-graft fistulae developed in two patients who required intermittent positive pressure ventilation and intubation with conventional cuffed tracheostomy tubes following resection of post-cricoid carcinomata by pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy. Pressure necrosis of the posterior tracheal muscle and the anterior wall of the graft occurred as a direct result of compression of these structures between the tracheostomy cannula and air cuff, and the vertebral bodies at the thoracic inlet. This post-operative complication has not been encountered in subsequent resections since the introduction and routine use of a modified cuffed tracheostomy tube. The adjustable neck plate guards against trauma to the tracheostome, inadvertent intubation of one of the major bronchi in each individual patient and the siting of the cuff beyond the thoracic inlet. Unintentional over-inflation of air cuffs remains a hazard whereas only ambient air re-expands the foam cuff. This property of the cuff also ensures against surgical injury to the posterior tracheal wall during the operation. Pressure necrosis of the posterior tracheal wall by the main tracheostomy cannula is minimised by suitably modifying the curvature and length of the cannula for use in patients with end-tracheostomies.", "PMID": 429907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_214", "title": "Giant aneurysm of the internal carotid artery in the carotid canal.", "content": "A case of giant aneurysm of the intrapetrous portion of the internal carotid artery, with intracranial and extra-cranial extension in an eight-year-old girl, is reported. Intracranial extension was demonstrated by the presence of a large sac projecting above the petrous shadow in a frontal carotid angiogram, and upward displacement of the middle cerebral artery in the post-ligation angiogram. Extracranial extension was shown clinically as a pulsating mass in the nasopharynx, and also radiologically as a widened medial coronoid space. Erosive destruction of the petrous bone and its neighbourhood produced palsies of the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th cranial nerves. There was appreciable recovery in the cranial nerve palsies when the patient was assessed clinically two weeks after ligation of the internal carotid artery.", "contents": "Giant aneurysm of the internal carotid artery in the carotid canal. A case of giant aneurysm of the intrapetrous portion of the internal carotid artery, with intracranial and extra-cranial extension in an eight-year-old girl, is reported. Intracranial extension was demonstrated by the presence of a large sac projecting above the petrous shadow in a frontal carotid angiogram, and upward displacement of the middle cerebral artery in the post-ligation angiogram. Extracranial extension was shown clinically as a pulsating mass in the nasopharynx, and also radiologically as a widened medial coronoid space. Erosive destruction of the petrous bone and its neighbourhood produced palsies of the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th cranial nerves. There was appreciable recovery in the cranial nerve palsies when the patient was assessed clinically two weeks after ligation of the internal carotid artery.", "PMID": 429908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_215", "title": "Benign solitary schwannoma of the cervical vagus nerve. A case report with a review of the literature.", "content": "A case of benign solitary schwannoma of the cervical vagus nerve occurring in a 12-year-old girl is reported. Clinical and pathological problems connected with the neoplasm are discussed. From a review of the literature, the lesion seems to be less rare than is commonly believed. Treatment is also discussed, including the possibility of a surgical procedure which allows the restoration of function in the vagus nerve.", "contents": "Benign solitary schwannoma of the cervical vagus nerve. A case report with a review of the literature. A case of benign solitary schwannoma of the cervical vagus nerve occurring in a 12-year-old girl is reported. Clinical and pathological problems connected with the neoplasm are discussed. From a review of the literature, the lesion seems to be less rare than is commonly believed. Treatment is also discussed, including the possibility of a surgical procedure which allows the restoration of function in the vagus nerve.", "PMID": 429909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_216", "title": "Serum concentrations of testosterone, oestrogens, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone in male and female rats during the critical period of neural sexual differentiation.", "content": "Untreated male and female rat pups were killed 1--5 days post partum and the serum concentrations of testosterone, oestrogens, LH and FSH were determined by radioimmunoassay. At all five sampling times, the serum concentrations of testosterone in male rats were about three times higher than those in female rats, but serum levels of oestrogens did not differ between the sexes. Serum concentrations of LH and FSH were lower in male than in female pups. In another study, rats were decapitated 1--10 days after birth and serum concentrations of testosterone were determined with a different radioimmunoassay. Again, at all four sampling times, the concentration of testosterone was significantly higher in the male than in the female pups.", "contents": "Serum concentrations of testosterone, oestrogens, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone in male and female rats during the critical period of neural sexual differentiation. Untreated male and female rat pups were killed 1--5 days post partum and the serum concentrations of testosterone, oestrogens, LH and FSH were determined by radioimmunoassay. At all five sampling times, the serum concentrations of testosterone in male rats were about three times higher than those in female rats, but serum levels of oestrogens did not differ between the sexes. Serum concentrations of LH and FSH were lower in male than in female pups. In another study, rats were decapitated 1--10 days after birth and serum concentrations of testosterone were determined with a different radioimmunoassay. Again, at all four sampling times, the concentration of testosterone was significantly higher in the male than in the female pups.", "PMID": 429945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_217", "title": "Seasonal fluctuations in the plasma concentrations of progesterone and oestradiol-17 beta in the female snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina).", "content": "Plasma concentrations of progesterone and oestradiol-17 beta were determined by radioimmunoassay procedures in the sexually mature female snapping turtle at four different stages of the annual ovarian cycle. The highest level of progesterone in the peripheral plasma was detected during the luteal stage (June), whereas the concentration of oestradiol was highest (280 pg/ml) in May, immediately before ovulation.", "contents": "Seasonal fluctuations in the plasma concentrations of progesterone and oestradiol-17 beta in the female snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina). Plasma concentrations of progesterone and oestradiol-17 beta were determined by radioimmunoassay procedures in the sexually mature female snapping turtle at four different stages of the annual ovarian cycle. The highest level of progesterone in the peripheral plasma was detected during the luteal stage (June), whereas the concentration of oestradiol was highest (280 pg/ml) in May, immediately before ovulation.", "PMID": 429947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_218", "title": "Immunological properties of synthetic human parathyroid hormone 53--84 fragment.", "content": "The immunological properties of a synthetic peptide comprising the carboxyl-terminal 53--84 region of human parathyroid hormone (PTH) have been studied. The immunoreactivity of the synthetic human PTH-(53--84) peptide paralleled that of a 53--84 fragment of the native human hormone prepared by enzymic digestion, in both a standard radioimmunoassay, which was not region-specific, and also a radioimmunoassay specific for the carboxyl-terminal region of PTH. However, in both types of radioimmunoassay the synthetic human PTH-(53--84) peptide was four to five times more reactive than the native human PTH-(53--84) fragment.", "contents": "Immunological properties of synthetic human parathyroid hormone 53--84 fragment. The immunological properties of a synthetic peptide comprising the carboxyl-terminal 53--84 region of human parathyroid hormone (PTH) have been studied. The immunoreactivity of the synthetic human PTH-(53--84) peptide paralleled that of a 53--84 fragment of the native human hormone prepared by enzymic digestion, in both a standard radioimmunoassay, which was not region-specific, and also a radioimmunoassay specific for the carboxyl-terminal region of PTH. However, in both types of radioimmunoassay the synthetic human PTH-(53--84) peptide was four to five times more reactive than the native human PTH-(53--84) fragment.", "PMID": 429948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_219", "title": "International Reference Preparation of human prolactin for immunoassay: definition of the International Unit, report of a collaborative study and comparison of estimates of human prolactin made in various laboratories.", "content": "As authorized by the World Health Organization 29th Expert Committee on Biological Standardization, the preparation of human prolactin in ampoules coded 75/504 has been established as the International Reference Preparation (IRP) of human prolactin for immunoassay. From the results of a collaborative study, to which 15 laboratories in nine countries contributed, with the agreement of the participants, the content of each ampoule is defined as 0.650 International Units (i.u.; 650 mi.u.) immunoassay. The results of this collaborative study show that the IRP is adequately stable and suitable for use as a standard for the determination of prolactin in human plasma and serum. Estimates of the prolactin content of human plasma and serum made in the various laboratories have been compared and show good agreement in ranking order, but only fair agreement in the numerical value of the estimates. Numerical agreement is poor between estimates of the human prolactin content of two samples identical except for coding; this shows the difficulty in achieving continuity of estimates when any laboratory calibrates a replacement standard.", "contents": "International Reference Preparation of human prolactin for immunoassay: definition of the International Unit, report of a collaborative study and comparison of estimates of human prolactin made in various laboratories. As authorized by the World Health Organization 29th Expert Committee on Biological Standardization, the preparation of human prolactin in ampoules coded 75/504 has been established as the International Reference Preparation (IRP) of human prolactin for immunoassay. From the results of a collaborative study, to which 15 laboratories in nine countries contributed, with the agreement of the participants, the content of each ampoule is defined as 0.650 International Units (i.u.; 650 mi.u.) immunoassay. The results of this collaborative study show that the IRP is adequately stable and suitable for use as a standard for the determination of prolactin in human plasma and serum. Estimates of the prolactin content of human plasma and serum made in the various laboratories have been compared and show good agreement in ranking order, but only fair agreement in the numerical value of the estimates. Numerical agreement is poor between estimates of the human prolactin content of two samples identical except for coding; this shows the difficulty in achieving continuity of estimates when any laboratory calibrates a replacement standard.", "PMID": 429949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_220", "title": "Sex differences in the concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors in rat liver and thymus.", "content": "The effects in rats of adrenalectomy, hypophysectomy, ovariectomy or combinations of these operations on the concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors in the cytosol of liver and thymus were measured. The concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors were lower in cytosols from liver and thymus of female than of male rats. After adrenalectomy, there was a significant increase in the concentrations of receptors measured in the cytoplasm from the liver and thymus of female rats and from the liver of male rats. After adrenalectomy or hypophysectomy, there was no sex difference in the concentration of glucocorticoid receptors in cytosols of liver or thymus. After ovariectomy, the concentration of receptors in cytosols from the thymus, but not from the liver, increased. Ovariectomized rats responded to adrenalectomy in the same way as intact male rats. The different responses shown by male and female rats to endocrine manipulation probably depend upon associated changes in plasma corticosterone concentrations which are influenced by the ovary. Differences in response between the liver and thymus probably reflect a preferential distribution of corticosterone to the liver rather than to the thymus.", "contents": "Sex differences in the concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors in rat liver and thymus. The effects in rats of adrenalectomy, hypophysectomy, ovariectomy or combinations of these operations on the concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors in the cytosol of liver and thymus were measured. The concentrations of glucocorticoid receptors were lower in cytosols from liver and thymus of female than of male rats. After adrenalectomy, there was a significant increase in the concentrations of receptors measured in the cytoplasm from the liver and thymus of female rats and from the liver of male rats. After adrenalectomy or hypophysectomy, there was no sex difference in the concentration of glucocorticoid receptors in cytosols of liver or thymus. After ovariectomy, the concentration of receptors in cytosols from the thymus, but not from the liver, increased. Ovariectomized rats responded to adrenalectomy in the same way as intact male rats. The different responses shown by male and female rats to endocrine manipulation probably depend upon associated changes in plasma corticosterone concentrations which are influenced by the ovary. Differences in response between the liver and thymus probably reflect a preferential distribution of corticosterone to the liver rather than to the thymus.", "PMID": 429950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_221", "title": "Highly specific binding of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in bone cytosol.", "content": "A method developed initially for the detection of high-affinity binding of glucocorticoids in the cytosol from foetal rat calvaria has been adapted for metabolites of vitamin D. Consistent displacement of [3H]1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol ([3H]1,25(OH)2D3) by unlabelled 1,25(OH)2D3 was obtained with an apparent dissociation constant (Kd) of 2.3 x 10(-9) mol/l. The specificity of this binding was examined by competition experiments. Displacement of labelled 1,25(OH)2D3 by a 100-fold excess of unlabelled metabolites, expressing the fall with unlabelled 1,25(OH)2D3 as 100%, was as follows: 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D3), 61%; 24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, 29%; cholecalciferol, 3%. These are similar to results for the chick mucosa nuclear 1,25(OH)2D3 receptor. No displacement was obtained with corticosterone, testosterone, oestradiol or progesterone. When [3H]25(OH)D3 was used as ligand, a displacement curve with unlabelled 25(OH)D3 indicated only binding with a greater Kd (approximately 10(-7) mol/l). These data suggest a direct action of 1,25(OH)2D3 on bone which is similar to that of steroid hormones on their target tissues.", "contents": "Highly specific binding of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in bone cytosol. A method developed initially for the detection of high-affinity binding of glucocorticoids in the cytosol from foetal rat calvaria has been adapted for metabolites of vitamin D. Consistent displacement of [3H]1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol ([3H]1,25(OH)2D3) by unlabelled 1,25(OH)2D3 was obtained with an apparent dissociation constant (Kd) of 2.3 x 10(-9) mol/l. The specificity of this binding was examined by competition experiments. Displacement of labelled 1,25(OH)2D3 by a 100-fold excess of unlabelled metabolites, expressing the fall with unlabelled 1,25(OH)2D3 as 100%, was as follows: 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D3), 61%; 24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, 29%; cholecalciferol, 3%. These are similar to results for the chick mucosa nuclear 1,25(OH)2D3 receptor. No displacement was obtained with corticosterone, testosterone, oestradiol or progesterone. When [3H]25(OH)D3 was used as ligand, a displacement curve with unlabelled 25(OH)D3 indicated only binding with a greater Kd (approximately 10(-7) mol/l). These data suggest a direct action of 1,25(OH)2D3 on bone which is similar to that of steroid hormones on their target tissues.", "PMID": 429951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_222", "title": "Variations in concentrations of prolactin, luteinizing hormone, growth hormone and progesterone in the plasma of broody bantams (Gallus domesticus).", "content": "The concentrations of prolactin, LH, progesterone and GH were measured in the blood of broody bantam hens. The concentration of prolactin was at its highest when the birds began to incubate their eggs and in six out of nine hens it tended to remain raised until the eggs hatched. The increase in the concentration of prolactin was small: in incubating hens it was only 23% higher than in hens caring for their young and 14% higher than in laying hens (P less than 0.05 for both comparisons). The concentration of GH tended to be depressed in hens caring for young but otherwise was not related to reproductive activity. The concentrations of LH and progesterone decreased at the onset of incubation and remained depressed while the hens sat on their eggs (P less than 0.001) for both comparisons). After the chicks hatched, the level of LH began to increase slowly whereas the level of progesterone remained low. The hens stopped showing broody behaviour between 4 and 10 weeks after the chicks had hatched; this corresponded to the time when the concentration of LH had increased to values found in laying hens. These observations provide some evidence that prolactin secretion increases at the onset of incubation and support the view that the hormone is not secreted at an increased rate while hens are caring for their young.", "contents": "Variations in concentrations of prolactin, luteinizing hormone, growth hormone and progesterone in the plasma of broody bantams (Gallus domesticus). The concentrations of prolactin, LH, progesterone and GH were measured in the blood of broody bantam hens. The concentration of prolactin was at its highest when the birds began to incubate their eggs and in six out of nine hens it tended to remain raised until the eggs hatched. The increase in the concentration of prolactin was small: in incubating hens it was only 23% higher than in hens caring for their young and 14% higher than in laying hens (P less than 0.05 for both comparisons). The concentration of GH tended to be depressed in hens caring for young but otherwise was not related to reproductive activity. The concentrations of LH and progesterone decreased at the onset of incubation and remained depressed while the hens sat on their eggs (P less than 0.001) for both comparisons). After the chicks hatched, the level of LH began to increase slowly whereas the level of progesterone remained low. The hens stopped showing broody behaviour between 4 and 10 weeks after the chicks had hatched; this corresponded to the time when the concentration of LH had increased to values found in laying hens. These observations provide some evidence that prolactin secretion increases at the onset of incubation and support the view that the hormone is not secreted at an increased rate while hens are caring for their young.", "PMID": 429952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_223", "title": "Reduction of non-specific serum responses in human pituitary gonadotrophin radioimmunoassays.", "content": "Serum and plasma from human and domestic animals contain variable amounts of non-specific material(s) which may be mistaken for hormone in assays for human LH and FSH, based upon antisera of high sensitivity and hormonal monospecificity. The non-specific response curves are generally, but not invariably, less steep than those of the hormone standards and endogenous homologous hormones. The levels of non-specific intrusion can be of sufficient magnitude to obscure specific estimations seriously, particularly at low hormone levels, unless the assays are designed to minimize this effect. The non-specific effects could be minimized (but not abolished) by careful optimization of the assays which involved making the response curve as sensitive as possible and incorporating the serum at a final dilution of 1 : 2, since further dilution increased the relative contribution of the non-specific substance(s). The optimized assays require only 48 h of total incubation and show a sevenfold increase in the mean concentration of LH between sera from prepubertal children and adults accompanied by a mean threefold difference in the concentration of FSH.", "contents": "Reduction of non-specific serum responses in human pituitary gonadotrophin radioimmunoassays. Serum and plasma from human and domestic animals contain variable amounts of non-specific material(s) which may be mistaken for hormone in assays for human LH and FSH, based upon antisera of high sensitivity and hormonal monospecificity. The non-specific response curves are generally, but not invariably, less steep than those of the hormone standards and endogenous homologous hormones. The levels of non-specific intrusion can be of sufficient magnitude to obscure specific estimations seriously, particularly at low hormone levels, unless the assays are designed to minimize this effect. The non-specific effects could be minimized (but not abolished) by careful optimization of the assays which involved making the response curve as sensitive as possible and incorporating the serum at a final dilution of 1 : 2, since further dilution increased the relative contribution of the non-specific substance(s). The optimized assays require only 48 h of total incubation and show a sevenfold increase in the mean concentration of LH between sera from prepubertal children and adults accompanied by a mean threefold difference in the concentration of FSH.", "PMID": 429953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_224", "title": "Metabolism of exogenous human chorionic gonadotrophin in men.", "content": "The immunoreactivity of a commercial preparation of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was determined in a homologous double antibody radioimmunoassay for HCG using antisera to the beta-subunit of the hormone. The immunoreactivity of the commercial HCG was found to be 2.2 +/- 0.3 (mean +/- 2 S.D.) times the biological potency. Exclusion chromatography of the commercial HCG and then curve resolution of the elution profile derived from the radioimmunoassay revealed that on a molar basis, 21% of the immunoreactivity was attributable to beta-HCG. The rate of clearance of this preparation of HCG from the plasma after intravenous administration was determined as a function of the dose administered to ten normal men (age 36--64 years). The doses ranged from 10,000 to 300,000 i.u. immunological potency. The rate of clearance decreased significantly (r = 0.574, P less than 0.05) with increasing doses of HCG from a mean of 786 ml/h at the lowest dose to a mean of 298 ml/h at the highest dose. The renal clearance of administered HCG also decreased with increasing doses; the mean renal clearance of the 10,000 i.u. dose was 3.6 times the mean renal clearance after administration of 200,000 i.u. When the accumulated urinary HCG was expressed as a percentage of the dose administered, 14.1% of the 10,000 i.u. dose and 9.8% of the higher doses accumulated in the urine, suggesting that non-renal clearance increased with increasing dose.", "contents": "Metabolism of exogenous human chorionic gonadotrophin in men. The immunoreactivity of a commercial preparation of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was determined in a homologous double antibody radioimmunoassay for HCG using antisera to the beta-subunit of the hormone. The immunoreactivity of the commercial HCG was found to be 2.2 +/- 0.3 (mean +/- 2 S.D.) times the biological potency. Exclusion chromatography of the commercial HCG and then curve resolution of the elution profile derived from the radioimmunoassay revealed that on a molar basis, 21% of the immunoreactivity was attributable to beta-HCG. The rate of clearance of this preparation of HCG from the plasma after intravenous administration was determined as a function of the dose administered to ten normal men (age 36--64 years). The doses ranged from 10,000 to 300,000 i.u. immunological potency. The rate of clearance decreased significantly (r = 0.574, P less than 0.05) with increasing doses of HCG from a mean of 786 ml/h at the lowest dose to a mean of 298 ml/h at the highest dose. The renal clearance of administered HCG also decreased with increasing doses; the mean renal clearance of the 10,000 i.u. dose was 3.6 times the mean renal clearance after administration of 200,000 i.u. When the accumulated urinary HCG was expressed as a percentage of the dose administered, 14.1% of the 10,000 i.u. dose and 9.8% of the higher doses accumulated in the urine, suggesting that non-renal clearance increased with increasing dose.", "PMID": 429954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_225", "title": "Transfer of matching performance in pigeons.", "content": "Three pigeons were given extensive training on three-key simultaneous matching problems using geometric-form and hue stimuli. After acquisition of matching, the birds were tested with pairs of stimuli involving one or both novel members. Matching during the test stimuli occurred less often than during the later stages of the acquisition phase, but more often than would occur if no transfer had taken place. Greater positive transfer was observed for problems that involved one, rather than two, novel stimuli. In the second phase of the experiment, previously trained birds were shifted to problems that required symbolic matching, i.e., the pigeons had to associate a particular center-key stimulus with a particular side-key stimulus. On each trial, one of two simuli was presented on the center key, and two other stimuli, different from those used on the center key, were displayed on the side keys. When the problem shift was introduced, correct responding was impaired, but remained considerably above chance level and quickly recovered in following sessions. The results were interpreted as favoring a stimulus-response-chaining account of matching behavior.", "contents": "Transfer of matching performance in pigeons. Three pigeons were given extensive training on three-key simultaneous matching problems using geometric-form and hue stimuli. After acquisition of matching, the birds were tested with pairs of stimuli involving one or both novel members. Matching during the test stimuli occurred less often than during the later stages of the acquisition phase, but more often than would occur if no transfer had taken place. Greater positive transfer was observed for problems that involved one, rather than two, novel stimuli. In the second phase of the experiment, previously trained birds were shifted to problems that required symbolic matching, i.e., the pigeons had to associate a particular center-key stimulus with a particular side-key stimulus. On each trial, one of two simuli was presented on the center key, and two other stimuli, different from those used on the center key, were displayed on the side keys. When the problem shift was introduced, correct responding was impaired, but remained considerably above chance level and quickly recovered in following sessions. The results were interpreted as favoring a stimulus-response-chaining account of matching behavior.", "PMID": 429955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_226", "title": "Effects of cocaine and d-amphetamine on the repeated acquisition and performance of conditional discriminations.", "content": "The acute and chronic effects of cocaine and d-amphetamine on food-reinforced behavior were investigated in pigeons responding on a two-component multiple schedule. In one component, the behavioral task consisted of the same chain of conditional discriminations each session (performance). In the other component, the chain of conditional discriminations was changed from session to session (learning). In comparison to control sessions, both acute cocaine and d-amphetamine increased errors in each component of the multiple schedule. Responding in the learning component, however, was generally disrupted at lower doses than those that affected responding in the performance component. At high doses, both drugs produced pauses in responding in each component in three of the four subjects. Pausing engendered by d-amphetamine was approximately twice as long as that under cocaine. Upon chronic administration, both the pausing and error-increasing effects of each drug diminished. Drug-induced changes in timeout responding, however, did not decrease during chronic administration. Redeterminations of the d-amphetamine dose-effect curves following chronic cocaine administration suggested the existence of cross-tolerance between cocaine and d-amphetamine. Both the acute and chronic data are consistent with the view that conditions of stimulus control may modulate the behavioral effects of drugs.", "contents": "Effects of cocaine and d-amphetamine on the repeated acquisition and performance of conditional discriminations. The acute and chronic effects of cocaine and d-amphetamine on food-reinforced behavior were investigated in pigeons responding on a two-component multiple schedule. In one component, the behavioral task consisted of the same chain of conditional discriminations each session (performance). In the other component, the chain of conditional discriminations was changed from session to session (learning). In comparison to control sessions, both acute cocaine and d-amphetamine increased errors in each component of the multiple schedule. Responding in the learning component, however, was generally disrupted at lower doses than those that affected responding in the performance component. At high doses, both drugs produced pauses in responding in each component in three of the four subjects. Pausing engendered by d-amphetamine was approximately twice as long as that under cocaine. Upon chronic administration, both the pausing and error-increasing effects of each drug diminished. Drug-induced changes in timeout responding, however, did not decrease during chronic administration. Redeterminations of the d-amphetamine dose-effect curves following chronic cocaine administration suggested the existence of cross-tolerance between cocaine and d-amphetamine. Both the acute and chronic data are consistent with the view that conditions of stimulus control may modulate the behavioral effects of drugs.", "PMID": 429956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_227", "title": "Pentobarbital and d-amphetamine effects on concurrent performances.", "content": "The effects of pentobarbital and d-amphetamine were studied in pigeons responding under several concurrent fixed-ratio variable-interval and concurrent fixed-ratio fixed-interval schedules of food presentation. Drug effects were compared with different fixed ratios, fixed and variable intervals, changeover delays, and with the schedules operating singly. Doses of d-amphetamine that increased or did not affect responding under the interval schedules decreased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule, whereas doses of pentobarbital that increased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule decreased or eliminated responding under the interval schedules. These effects depended both on the schedule of food delivery and the parameters of schedules arranged concurrently. Pentobarbital increased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule with 4-minute and 10-minute interval schedules arranged concurrently, but not with 1.5-minute schedules. d-Amphetamine decreased concurrent ratio and interval responding with the 1.5-minute interval schedules, but either increased or did not affect responding with the longer intervals. Changes in the parameter of one schedule altered responding controlled by that schedule and also other concurrent performances. As a consequence, the effects of drugs on each behavior were altered.", "contents": "Pentobarbital and d-amphetamine effects on concurrent performances. The effects of pentobarbital and d-amphetamine were studied in pigeons responding under several concurrent fixed-ratio variable-interval and concurrent fixed-ratio fixed-interval schedules of food presentation. Drug effects were compared with different fixed ratios, fixed and variable intervals, changeover delays, and with the schedules operating singly. Doses of d-amphetamine that increased or did not affect responding under the interval schedules decreased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule, whereas doses of pentobarbital that increased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule decreased or eliminated responding under the interval schedules. These effects depended both on the schedule of food delivery and the parameters of schedules arranged concurrently. Pentobarbital increased responding under the fixed-ratio schedule with 4-minute and 10-minute interval schedules arranged concurrently, but not with 1.5-minute schedules. d-Amphetamine decreased concurrent ratio and interval responding with the 1.5-minute interval schedules, but either increased or did not affect responding with the longer intervals. Changes in the parameter of one schedule altered responding controlled by that schedule and also other concurrent performances. As a consequence, the effects of drugs on each behavior were altered.", "PMID": 429957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_228", "title": "Reinforcement contingencies as discriminative stimuli: II. Effects of changes in stimulus probability.", "content": "Three pigeons were trained on a matching procedure involving a sample component and a choice component. Responding in the sample component, according to either a differential-reinforcement-of-low-rate schedule on some trials or a differential-reinforcement-of-other-behavior schedule on other trials, produced access to the choice component in which each of two keys was illuminated with a unique color. The correct choice response was defined by the contingency that was met to produce the choice. The food hopper operated for 1.5 seconds following an appropriate sample response and for 3 seconds following a correct choice response. A signal-detection analysis showed that variations in the probability of presentation of the different contingencies systematically affected response bias but not sensitivity to the contingencies as stimuli. Substitution of a blackout for food at the end of the sample component did not differentially affect performance, but elimination of the delay between sample and choice components generally increased the sensitivity measure. The findings suggest a role for reinforcement contingency discrimination in schedule-controlled responding.", "contents": "Reinforcement contingencies as discriminative stimuli: II. Effects of changes in stimulus probability. Three pigeons were trained on a matching procedure involving a sample component and a choice component. Responding in the sample component, according to either a differential-reinforcement-of-low-rate schedule on some trials or a differential-reinforcement-of-other-behavior schedule on other trials, produced access to the choice component in which each of two keys was illuminated with a unique color. The correct choice response was defined by the contingency that was met to produce the choice. The food hopper operated for 1.5 seconds following an appropriate sample response and for 3 seconds following a correct choice response. A signal-detection analysis showed that variations in the probability of presentation of the different contingencies systematically affected response bias but not sensitivity to the contingencies as stimuli. Substitution of a blackout for food at the end of the sample component did not differentially affect performance, but elimination of the delay between sample and choice components generally increased the sensitivity measure. The findings suggest a role for reinforcement contingency discrimination in schedule-controlled responding.", "PMID": 429958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_229", "title": "Schedule-induced locomotor activity in humans.", "content": "In two experiments, humans received tokens either on a fixed-interval schedule for plunger pulling or various response-nondependent fixed-time schedules ranging from 16 to 140 seconds. Locomotor activity such as walking, shifting weight, or pacing was recorded in quarters of the interreinforcement interval to examine the induced characteristics of that behavior in humans. While performance was variable, several characteristics were present that have counterparts in experiments with nonhumans during periodic schedules of food reinforcement: (a) first quarter rates, and sometimes overall rates, of locomotor activity were greater during intervals that terminated in a visual stimulus and token delivery than those without: (b) overall rates of locomotor activity were greater during fixed-time 16-second schedules than during fixed-time 80- or 140-second schedules; (c) rates of locomotor activity decreased during the interreinforcement intervals; (d) locomotor activity was induced by response-dependent and response-nondependent token delivery. These results showed that the rate and temporal pattern of locomotor activity can be schedule-induced in humans.", "contents": "Schedule-induced locomotor activity in humans. In two experiments, humans received tokens either on a fixed-interval schedule for plunger pulling or various response-nondependent fixed-time schedules ranging from 16 to 140 seconds. Locomotor activity such as walking, shifting weight, or pacing was recorded in quarters of the interreinforcement interval to examine the induced characteristics of that behavior in humans. While performance was variable, several characteristics were present that have counterparts in experiments with nonhumans during periodic schedules of food reinforcement: (a) first quarter rates, and sometimes overall rates, of locomotor activity were greater during intervals that terminated in a visual stimulus and token delivery than those without: (b) overall rates of locomotor activity were greater during fixed-time 16-second schedules than during fixed-time 80- or 140-second schedules; (c) rates of locomotor activity decreased during the interreinforcement intervals; (d) locomotor activity was induced by response-dependent and response-nondependent token delivery. These results showed that the rate and temporal pattern of locomotor activity can be schedule-induced in humans.", "PMID": 429959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_230", "title": "Genetically determined, interferon-dependent resistance to influenza virus in mice.", "content": "The genetically determined resistance towards orthomyxoviruses exhibited by mice homozygous (A2G) or heterozygous (A2G X A/J) for the gene Mx was abolished or greatly diminished by treatment with anti-interferon globulin (AIF). AIF induced increased susceptibility to challenge with hepatotropic, neurotropic, and pneumotropic strains of influenza A virus. Hepatotropic virus titers in blood and livers of AIF-treated, Mx-bearing mice were higher by a factor of 10(3)--10(6) than those in untreated mice of the same genotype, and were comparable to those in genetically susceptible (untreated or AIF-treated) mice. Peritoneal macrophages from Mx-bearing untreated mice were resistant to challenge with a macrophage-adapted strain of influenza A virus even in the presence of AIF. However, when macrophages were taken from resistant mice injected with AIF and also cultivated in the presence of AIF, they were as susceptible to the virus as macrophages taken from susceptible mice. We conclude that interferons is an important factor in resistance to orthomyxoviruses governed by the gene Mx.", "contents": "Genetically determined, interferon-dependent resistance to influenza virus in mice. The genetically determined resistance towards orthomyxoviruses exhibited by mice homozygous (A2G) or heterozygous (A2G X A/J) for the gene Mx was abolished or greatly diminished by treatment with anti-interferon globulin (AIF). AIF induced increased susceptibility to challenge with hepatotropic, neurotropic, and pneumotropic strains of influenza A virus. Hepatotropic virus titers in blood and livers of AIF-treated, Mx-bearing mice were higher by a factor of 10(3)--10(6) than those in untreated mice of the same genotype, and were comparable to those in genetically susceptible (untreated or AIF-treated) mice. Peritoneal macrophages from Mx-bearing untreated mice were resistant to challenge with a macrophage-adapted strain of influenza A virus even in the presence of AIF. However, when macrophages were taken from resistant mice injected with AIF and also cultivated in the presence of AIF, they were as susceptible to the virus as macrophages taken from susceptible mice. We conclude that interferons is an important factor in resistance to orthomyxoviruses governed by the gene Mx.", "PMID": 429960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_231", "title": "DR (Ia-like) antigens on human melanoma cells. Serological detection and immunochemical characterization.", "content": "11 cultured human melanoma cell lines were tested for the expression of DR antigens by using specific allo- and xenoantisera in an indirect rosette microassay. Four of these melanoma cell lines expressed DR antigens, but in lower amounts than expressed on cultured human B-lymphoid cells. Rabbits injected with the DR-positive melanoma cells produced antibodies that were serologically and immunochemically reactive with B-cell-derived DR antigens. Immunochemical studies indicate that melanoma cell-derived DR antigens have a two-chain structure with 34,000 and 27,000 mol wt components. The melanoma cell-derived DR beta-chain at 27,000 mol wt is slightly smaller than that of the Victor cell DR beta-chain whose mol wt is 29,000.", "contents": "DR (Ia-like) antigens on human melanoma cells. Serological detection and immunochemical characterization. 11 cultured human melanoma cell lines were tested for the expression of DR antigens by using specific allo- and xenoantisera in an indirect rosette microassay. Four of these melanoma cell lines expressed DR antigens, but in lower amounts than expressed on cultured human B-lymphoid cells. Rabbits injected with the DR-positive melanoma cells produced antibodies that were serologically and immunochemically reactive with B-cell-derived DR antigens. Immunochemical studies indicate that melanoma cell-derived DR antigens have a two-chain structure with 34,000 and 27,000 mol wt components. The melanoma cell-derived DR beta-chain at 27,000 mol wt is slightly smaller than that of the Victor cell DR beta-chain whose mol wt is 29,000.", "PMID": 429961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_232", "title": "The tumor dormant state. Comparison of L5178Y cells used to establish dormancy with those that emerge after its termination.", "content": "The tumor dormant state established in L5178Y immunized and challenged mice is characterized by a prolonged period of clinical normalcy followed by rapid tumor outgrowth. The tumor cells which emerged after termination of the tumor dormant state had abnormal marker chromosomes identical to those in the L5178Y cells used in the original challenge inoculum, indicating that the emergent tumor cells were progeny of the challenge inoculum. Original and emergent L5178Y cells had equivalent in vivo growth rates, when inoculated into normal DBA/2 mice. The emergent L5178Y cells were less susceptible than original cells to in vitro lysis by tumor dormant PC. Original and emergent L5178Y cells expressed common tumor-associated target antigens for cytolytic effector cells. Both modulation and masking of these target antigens were ruled out as mechanisms for decreased susceptibility to cell-mediated cytolysis. Immunofluorescence revealed heterogeneity in tumor-associated antigen expression within both original and emergent cell populations, with a decreased intensity of staining in the emergent population. Both populations were equally susceptible to lysis by alloimmune cells, alloantiserum, and anti-Thy 1.2 serum, but emergent cells were less susceptible to lysis by serum directed against L5178Y TAA. Quantitative absorption revealed that the emergent L5178Y cells expressed eightfold less serologically detectable TAA than the original cells. These findings indicate that the host immune response developing during establishment of the tumor dormant state selects a stable tumor cell subpopulation which expresses decreased amounts of surface tumor-associated target antigens.", "contents": "The tumor dormant state. Comparison of L5178Y cells used to establish dormancy with those that emerge after its termination. The tumor dormant state established in L5178Y immunized and challenged mice is characterized by a prolonged period of clinical normalcy followed by rapid tumor outgrowth. The tumor cells which emerged after termination of the tumor dormant state had abnormal marker chromosomes identical to those in the L5178Y cells used in the original challenge inoculum, indicating that the emergent tumor cells were progeny of the challenge inoculum. Original and emergent L5178Y cells had equivalent in vivo growth rates, when inoculated into normal DBA/2 mice. The emergent L5178Y cells were less susceptible than original cells to in vitro lysis by tumor dormant PC. Original and emergent L5178Y cells expressed common tumor-associated target antigens for cytolytic effector cells. Both modulation and masking of these target antigens were ruled out as mechanisms for decreased susceptibility to cell-mediated cytolysis. Immunofluorescence revealed heterogeneity in tumor-associated antigen expression within both original and emergent cell populations, with a decreased intensity of staining in the emergent population. Both populations were equally susceptible to lysis by alloimmune cells, alloantiserum, and anti-Thy 1.2 serum, but emergent cells were less susceptible to lysis by serum directed against L5178Y TAA. Quantitative absorption revealed that the emergent L5178Y cells expressed eightfold less serologically detectable TAA than the original cells. These findings indicate that the host immune response developing during establishment of the tumor dormant state selects a stable tumor cell subpopulation which expresses decreased amounts of surface tumor-associated target antigens.", "PMID": 429962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_233", "title": "Relation between structure and correcting activity of bovine high molecular weight kininogen upon the clotting time of Fitzgerald-trait plasma.", "content": "Bovine high molecular weight kininogen (bHMWK) partially corrects the activated plasma thromboplastin time (aPTT) of Fitzgerald trait plasma which is congenitally deficient in HMWK. The relationship between the structure and activity of HMWK was clarified by studying the effects of different fragments of bHMWK on the aPTT of Fitzgerald-trait plasma. The peptides studied were lys-bradykinin-free HMWK, bradykinin-fragment 1-2-free HMWK, heavy chain, fragment 1-2-light chain, and light chain. All fragments were tested in equimolar concentrations. Bradykinin-fragment 1-2-free HMWK, heavy chain, and light chain have little or no correcting activity upon Fitzgerald-trait plasma aPTr. Fragment 1-2 light chain has the same correcting activity as intact bHMWK, while that of lys-bradykinin-free HMWK appears to be higher. Both fragment 1-2 and fragment 2 inhibit the clotting time of normal human plasma. When compared on a molar basis, fragment 2 is a more active inhibitor than fragment 1-2. When the effects of bovine plasma kallikrein upon bHMWK and hHMWK were studied, it was found that it released kinins from both kininogens. However, while the correcting activity of bHMWK was completely destroyed after 60 min of incubation, that of hHMWK was fully retained. These data suggest that: (a) the active part of bHMWK is comprised of the fragment 1-2 light chain portion; (b) fragment 1-2 or fragment 2 is the binding site to negatively charged surfaces, while the light chain interacts with other components of the surface-mediated reactions; and (c) bovine plasma kallikrein releases kinins, but probably does not cause the release of fragment 1-2 from human HMWK.", "contents": "Relation between structure and correcting activity of bovine high molecular weight kininogen upon the clotting time of Fitzgerald-trait plasma. Bovine high molecular weight kininogen (bHMWK) partially corrects the activated plasma thromboplastin time (aPTT) of Fitzgerald trait plasma which is congenitally deficient in HMWK. The relationship between the structure and activity of HMWK was clarified by studying the effects of different fragments of bHMWK on the aPTT of Fitzgerald-trait plasma. The peptides studied were lys-bradykinin-free HMWK, bradykinin-fragment 1-2-free HMWK, heavy chain, fragment 1-2-light chain, and light chain. All fragments were tested in equimolar concentrations. Bradykinin-fragment 1-2-free HMWK, heavy chain, and light chain have little or no correcting activity upon Fitzgerald-trait plasma aPTr. Fragment 1-2 light chain has the same correcting activity as intact bHMWK, while that of lys-bradykinin-free HMWK appears to be higher. Both fragment 1-2 and fragment 2 inhibit the clotting time of normal human plasma. When compared on a molar basis, fragment 2 is a more active inhibitor than fragment 1-2. When the effects of bovine plasma kallikrein upon bHMWK and hHMWK were studied, it was found that it released kinins from both kininogens. However, while the correcting activity of bHMWK was completely destroyed after 60 min of incubation, that of hHMWK was fully retained. These data suggest that: (a) the active part of bHMWK is comprised of the fragment 1-2 light chain portion; (b) fragment 1-2 or fragment 2 is the binding site to negatively charged surfaces, while the light chain interacts with other components of the surface-mediated reactions; and (c) bovine plasma kallikrein releases kinins, but probably does not cause the release of fragment 1-2 from human HMWK.", "PMID": 429963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_234", "title": "The appearance of transition forms between monocytes and Kupffer cells in the liver of rats treated with glucan. A cytochemical and ultrastructural study.", "content": "A massive accumulation of mononuclear phagocytes in the rat liver was found after the injection of glucan, a beta-1,3-polyglucose. Portal vessels and central veins contained large numbers of rounded and elongated cells which were adherent to the endothelium. By scanning electron microscopy most of these cells exhibited prominent lemellopodia, raised ridge-like profiles and blebs, the typical features of mononuclear phagocytes. Peroxidase cytochemistry revealed that whereas most cells in portal vessels were monocytes with peroxidase positive and negative granules, the majority of cells in central veins were macrophages exhibiting peroxidase activity in nuclear envelope (NE) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In sinusoids monocytes and macrophages were seen side by side. The major finding of the present study was that some cells, adherent to the endothelium or portal vessels or to the lining of sinusoids, exhibited a peroxidase pattern intermediate between monocytes and Kupffer cells, i.e. strong peroxidase activity in cytoplasmic granules, as well as a weak to moderately positive peroxidase reaction in NE and ER. These intermediate cells also contained peroxidase-negative granules with halo, which are usually seen in monocytes. Furthermore, examination of serial ultrathin sections of typical Kupffer cells revealed numerous peroxidase-positive granules and peroxidase-negative granules with halo in their cytoplasm. Finally, dividing Kupffer cells with positive peroxidase reaction in ER were found. These in vivo observations provide ultrastructural and cytochemical evidence in support of the concept of derivation of Kupffer cells from monocytes, demonstrating in addition that Kupffer cells are capable of self-replication in situ.", "contents": "The appearance of transition forms between monocytes and Kupffer cells in the liver of rats treated with glucan. A cytochemical and ultrastructural study. A massive accumulation of mononuclear phagocytes in the rat liver was found after the injection of glucan, a beta-1,3-polyglucose. Portal vessels and central veins contained large numbers of rounded and elongated cells which were adherent to the endothelium. By scanning electron microscopy most of these cells exhibited prominent lemellopodia, raised ridge-like profiles and blebs, the typical features of mononuclear phagocytes. Peroxidase cytochemistry revealed that whereas most cells in portal vessels were monocytes with peroxidase positive and negative granules, the majority of cells in central veins were macrophages exhibiting peroxidase activity in nuclear envelope (NE) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In sinusoids monocytes and macrophages were seen side by side. The major finding of the present study was that some cells, adherent to the endothelium or portal vessels or to the lining of sinusoids, exhibited a peroxidase pattern intermediate between monocytes and Kupffer cells, i.e. strong peroxidase activity in cytoplasmic granules, as well as a weak to moderately positive peroxidase reaction in NE and ER. These intermediate cells also contained peroxidase-negative granules with halo, which are usually seen in monocytes. Furthermore, examination of serial ultrathin sections of typical Kupffer cells revealed numerous peroxidase-positive granules and peroxidase-negative granules with halo in their cytoplasm. Finally, dividing Kupffer cells with positive peroxidase reaction in ER were found. These in vivo observations provide ultrastructural and cytochemical evidence in support of the concept of derivation of Kupffer cells from monocytes, demonstrating in addition that Kupffer cells are capable of self-replication in situ.", "PMID": 429964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_235", "title": "Neutral protease secretion by human monocytes. Effect of surface-bound immune complexes.", "content": "The effect of surface-bound immune complexes on the secretion of neutral proteases by human peripheral monocytes was examined. Monocytes cultured on 125I-fibrin secreted plasminogen activator in a continuous fashion. Monocytes incubated on 125I-fibrin with surface-bound immune complexes displayed a burst of plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic activity, whereas no release of plasminogen activator was observed through 21 h. The plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic enzymes were derived from monocytes and not from lymphocytes or contaminating polymorphonuclear neutrophils. The effects of various protease inhibitors on the secretion of plasminogen-dependent and independent enzymes were determined. Chymostatin selectively inhibited the monocyte-derived plasminogen activators. Similar effects of chymostatin were observed on human urokinase in the absence of cells. The predominant protease producing plasminogen-independent fibrinolysis exhibited responses to inhibitors characteristic of leukocyte elastase. When monocytes were cultured on 125I-fibrin with adherent immune complexes approximately equal to 40% of the solubilized radioactivity represented deiodination and not proteolysis. It was concluded that culture of human monocytes on surface-bound immune complexes stimulates the secretion of plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic proteases, primarily elastase, and of deiodinating enzymes. Under these conditions, plasminogen activator secretion is inhibited. Neutral proteases secreted from newly recruited monocytes may contribute to tissue injury in human diseases characterized by the presence of adherent immune complexes.", "contents": "Neutral protease secretion by human monocytes. Effect of surface-bound immune complexes. The effect of surface-bound immune complexes on the secretion of neutral proteases by human peripheral monocytes was examined. Monocytes cultured on 125I-fibrin secreted plasminogen activator in a continuous fashion. Monocytes incubated on 125I-fibrin with surface-bound immune complexes displayed a burst of plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic activity, whereas no release of plasminogen activator was observed through 21 h. The plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic enzymes were derived from monocytes and not from lymphocytes or contaminating polymorphonuclear neutrophils. The effects of various protease inhibitors on the secretion of plasminogen-dependent and independent enzymes were determined. Chymostatin selectively inhibited the monocyte-derived plasminogen activators. Similar effects of chymostatin were observed on human urokinase in the absence of cells. The predominant protease producing plasminogen-independent fibrinolysis exhibited responses to inhibitors characteristic of leukocyte elastase. When monocytes were cultured on 125I-fibrin with adherent immune complexes approximately equal to 40% of the solubilized radioactivity represented deiodination and not proteolysis. It was concluded that culture of human monocytes on surface-bound immune complexes stimulates the secretion of plasminogen-independent fibrinolytic proteases, primarily elastase, and of deiodinating enzymes. Under these conditions, plasminogen activator secretion is inhibited. Neutral proteases secreted from newly recruited monocytes may contribute to tissue injury in human diseases characterized by the presence of adherent immune complexes.", "PMID": 429965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_236", "title": "Three types of blood group I specificity among monoclonal anti-I autoantibodies revealed by analogues of a branched erythrocyte glycolipid.", "content": "Blood group I activities of the purified glycosphingolipid lacto-N-iso-octaosyl ceramide (Fromula: see text) and 8 of its analogues have been evaluated with 11 anti-I sera including 5 anti-I sera previously tested. All but one of the antisera were inhibited by the lacto-N-iso-octaosyl structure. Three types of I-specificity could be distinguished although none of the anti-I sera was identical in its inhibition patterns with the nine glycophingolipid analogues. The anti-I sera Ma and Woj represent the first type and require an intact Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 6 chain, the anti-I sera Step, Gra, Ver, and Ful represent the second type which requires Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 3 chain with branching, and the anti-I sera Phi, Da, Sch, and Low belong to the third type which requires both branches to be intact. Anti-I antibodies varry in their ability to react with their antigenic determinants in the presence of external substitutions with alpha-linked galactose or sialic acid.", "contents": "Three types of blood group I specificity among monoclonal anti-I autoantibodies revealed by analogues of a branched erythrocyte glycolipid. Blood group I activities of the purified glycosphingolipid lacto-N-iso-octaosyl ceramide (Fromula: see text) and 8 of its analogues have been evaluated with 11 anti-I sera including 5 anti-I sera previously tested. All but one of the antisera were inhibited by the lacto-N-iso-octaosyl structure. Three types of I-specificity could be distinguished although none of the anti-I sera was identical in its inhibition patterns with the nine glycophingolipid analogues. The anti-I sera Ma and Woj represent the first type and require an intact Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 6 chain, the anti-I sera Step, Gra, Ver, and Ful represent the second type which requires Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 3 chain with branching, and the anti-I sera Phi, Da, Sch, and Low belong to the third type which requires both branches to be intact. Anti-I antibodies varry in their ability to react with their antigenic determinants in the presence of external substitutions with alpha-linked galactose or sialic acid.", "PMID": 429966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_237", "title": "Structural studies on the murine Ia alloantigens. V. Evidence that the structural gene for the I-E/C beta polypeptide is encoded within the I-A subregion.", "content": "The E/C alpha- and beta-subunits of intra-I-region recombinants were analyzed for primary structural variation by comparative tryptic peptide mapping. The E/C alpha-polypeptides from B10.A, B10.A (3R) and B10.A (5R) showed complete coincident elution of peptides; the E/C beta-chains from B10.A and 3R (or 5R) were approximately 40% different. This suggests that the structural gene for the E/C beta-polypeptide is within the I-A subregion.", "contents": "Structural studies on the murine Ia alloantigens. V. Evidence that the structural gene for the I-E/C beta polypeptide is encoded within the I-A subregion. The E/C alpha- and beta-subunits of intra-I-region recombinants were analyzed for primary structural variation by comparative tryptic peptide mapping. The E/C alpha-polypeptides from B10.A, B10.A (3R) and B10.A (5R) showed complete coincident elution of peptides; the E/C beta-chains from B10.A and 3R (or 5R) were approximately 40% different. This suggests that the structural gene for the E/C beta-polypeptide is within the I-A subregion.", "PMID": 429967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_238", "title": "Follow-up on the problem of increased incidence of thyroid carcinoma from the effects of childhood irradiation.", "content": "There has been widespread concern in both the medical and lay community on how to deal with the problem of the increased incidence of thyroid cancer in patients irradiated in the head and neck during childhood, including the difficult question of whether all of these patients should be recalled and screened. Such an approach is not deemed logistically feasible and the desired benefits of the program which hinge on treatment through early detection are nullified by the protracted nature of the disease. The iatrogenic nature of the problem has raised ethical questions concerning professional duty and responsibility. The principle of \"similar treatment for similar cases\" seems fairest and most justifiable in pursuit of the goal of equal access to health care. The most effective plan appears to be a carefully devised public education campaign. Informing practicing physicians not already aware of the problem should be an important part of this effort. The responsibility for seeking treatment would be left to the patient who would see his personal physician or be recommended to a previously designated physician in his area.", "contents": "Follow-up on the problem of increased incidence of thyroid carcinoma from the effects of childhood irradiation. There has been widespread concern in both the medical and lay community on how to deal with the problem of the increased incidence of thyroid cancer in patients irradiated in the head and neck during childhood, including the difficult question of whether all of these patients should be recalled and screened. Such an approach is not deemed logistically feasible and the desired benefits of the program which hinge on treatment through early detection are nullified by the protracted nature of the disease. The iatrogenic nature of the problem has raised ethical questions concerning professional duty and responsibility. The principle of \"similar treatment for similar cases\" seems fairest and most justifiable in pursuit of the goal of equal access to health care. The most effective plan appears to be a carefully devised public education campaign. Informing practicing physicians not already aware of the problem should be an important part of this effort. The responsibility for seeking treatment would be left to the patient who would see his personal physician or be recommended to a previously designated physician in his area.", "PMID": 429970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_239", "title": "Varicella pneumonia during pregnancy.", "content": "Varicella pneumonia during pregnancy may be relatively mild or rapidly fatal. Diagnosis is based on the usual criteria for varicella in association with signs and symptoms of respiratory distress: dyspnea, tachypnea, cough, chest pain, and hemoptysis, with characteristic x-ray findings. Treatment should be directed toward maintaining blood oxygen saturation at as near normal as possible (monitored by serial blood gas determinations). The occurrence of congenital varicella is unpredictable, but an infant born within four days of the mother's development of the varicella skin rash is at high risk, with the outcome being fatal in five percent of cases.", "contents": "Varicella pneumonia during pregnancy. Varicella pneumonia during pregnancy may be relatively mild or rapidly fatal. Diagnosis is based on the usual criteria for varicella in association with signs and symptoms of respiratory distress: dyspnea, tachypnea, cough, chest pain, and hemoptysis, with characteristic x-ray findings. Treatment should be directed toward maintaining blood oxygen saturation at as near normal as possible (monitored by serial blood gas determinations). The occurrence of congenital varicella is unpredictable, but an infant born within four days of the mother's development of the varicella skin rash is at high risk, with the outcome being fatal in five percent of cases.", "PMID": 429971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_240", "title": "Mycosis fungoides: clinical and therapeutic review.", "content": "Mycosis fungoides is a cutaneously-derived malignant lymphoma which, without effective treatment, may run an unrelenting, rapidly lethal course. Often beginning as a nonspecific skin eruption, easily misdiagnosed as a common eczema or psoriasis, the disease progresses through a plaque stage to the tumor stage with the appearance of the mushroom-like growths for which the entity was originally named. Because of the dismal outlook in uncontrolled cases, newer, more aggressive approaches to therapy are being developed and are being instituted earlier in the course of the disease.", "contents": "Mycosis fungoides: clinical and therapeutic review. Mycosis fungoides is a cutaneously-derived malignant lymphoma which, without effective treatment, may run an unrelenting, rapidly lethal course. Often beginning as a nonspecific skin eruption, easily misdiagnosed as a common eczema or psoriasis, the disease progresses through a plaque stage to the tumor stage with the appearance of the mushroom-like growths for which the entity was originally named. Because of the dismal outlook in uncontrolled cases, newer, more aggressive approaches to therapy are being developed and are being instituted earlier in the course of the disease.", "PMID": 429972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_241", "title": "Documentation of inpatient clinical experience of family practice residents: a manual system.", "content": "A simple, efficient, and inexpensive system for quantitatively documenting the range of clinical experience of individual residents on inpatient rotations is described. Information provided by this system can be used by program faculty to make informed educational decisions concerning both the design of rotations and individual resident program planning. The data are also useful to residency graduates to document their clinical experience when applying for hospital privileges.", "contents": "Documentation of inpatient clinical experience of family practice residents: a manual system. A simple, efficient, and inexpensive system for quantitatively documenting the range of clinical experience of individual residents on inpatient rotations is described. Information provided by this system can be used by program faculty to make informed educational decisions concerning both the design of rotations and individual resident program planning. The data are also useful to residency graduates to document their clinical experience when applying for hospital privileges.", "PMID": 429973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_242", "title": "Behavioral science and family practice: a status report.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to assess the current status of behavioral science instruction in family practice residency training programs. The primary areas of interest were: (1) characteristics of those who teach behavioral science (number of persons teaching behavioral science by discipline and academic degree, number and percent of time behavioral science personnel employed, work responsibilities, academic unit responsible for instruction, description of those who provide inservice training in behavioral science ), (2) the relative importance of various behavioral science topics as perceived by faculty/staff (21 topics), and (3) preferred methods of instruction. The data revealed a wide variety of persons involved in behavioral science instruction, a strong emphasis placed on communication and counseling skills, and similar, but not innovative, teaching methods used for behavioral science instruction.", "contents": "Behavioral science and family practice: a status report. The purpose of this study was to assess the current status of behavioral science instruction in family practice residency training programs. The primary areas of interest were: (1) characteristics of those who teach behavioral science (number of persons teaching behavioral science by discipline and academic degree, number and percent of time behavioral science personnel employed, work responsibilities, academic unit responsible for instruction, description of those who provide inservice training in behavioral science ), (2) the relative importance of various behavioral science topics as perceived by faculty/staff (21 topics), and (3) preferred methods of instruction. The data revealed a wide variety of persons involved in behavioral science instruction, a strong emphasis placed on communication and counseling skills, and similar, but not innovative, teaching methods used for behavioral science instruction.", "PMID": 429974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_243", "title": "Teaching interpersonal skills in family practice: results of a national survey.", "content": "The increasing recognition of the importance of a well-developed set of interpersonal skills to the competent family physician has resulted in a rapid growth in the formal teaching of interpersonal skills within family practice residencies. Of the 168 programs responding to a national survey of family practice residencies, 88 percent indicated that they have formal programs in interpersonal skills. It is estimated that there are well over 500 family practice faculty members who have special responsibilities in teaching interpersonal skills. While most programs address the component skills of the interpersonal process (eg, demonstrating empathy, information gathering, information giving, and psychological intervention), it is of concern that only about half offer explicit training in patient education (53 percent), specific types of counseling (eg, family counseling, 55 percent), or some of the specific interpersonal skills important in team practice and practice management (eg, supervisory skills). One of the most striking findings was that 88 percent of the reporting programs use videotechnology, with 77 percent of these planning to increase their use. Although most programs evaluate their interpersonal skills training using both indirect and direct assessment methods, only 25 percent attempt to use patient outcome as a measure of teaching effectiveness.", "contents": "Teaching interpersonal skills in family practice: results of a national survey. The increasing recognition of the importance of a well-developed set of interpersonal skills to the competent family physician has resulted in a rapid growth in the formal teaching of interpersonal skills within family practice residencies. Of the 168 programs responding to a national survey of family practice residencies, 88 percent indicated that they have formal programs in interpersonal skills. It is estimated that there are well over 500 family practice faculty members who have special responsibilities in teaching interpersonal skills. While most programs address the component skills of the interpersonal process (eg, demonstrating empathy, information gathering, information giving, and psychological intervention), it is of concern that only about half offer explicit training in patient education (53 percent), specific types of counseling (eg, family counseling, 55 percent), or some of the specific interpersonal skills important in team practice and practice management (eg, supervisory skills). One of the most striking findings was that 88 percent of the reporting programs use videotechnology, with 77 percent of these planning to increase their use. Although most programs evaluate their interpersonal skills training using both indirect and direct assessment methods, only 25 percent attempt to use patient outcome as a measure of teaching effectiveness.", "PMID": 429975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_244", "title": "The nature and management of telephone utilization in a family practice setting.", "content": "Study of the telephone practice in four family practice settings reveals a complex interaction between patients, physicians, and receptionists. Patients present a limited number of complaints--80 percent of complaints represent 25 common chief complaints, and 95 percent represent 50 chief complaints. Little difference was observed between the symptoms reported by patients to the physicians as compared to those received by the receptionist staff. Physicians are more likely to use the telephone contact to treat the patient's complaint with home care advice or a prescription. Receptionists are more likely to use the telephone contact for scheduling an office visit.", "contents": "The nature and management of telephone utilization in a family practice setting. Study of the telephone practice in four family practice settings reveals a complex interaction between patients, physicians, and receptionists. Patients present a limited number of complaints--80 percent of complaints represent 25 common chief complaints, and 95 percent represent 50 chief complaints. Little difference was observed between the symptoms reported by patients to the physicians as compared to those received by the receptionist staff. Physicians are more likely to use the telephone contact to treat the patient's complaint with home care advice or a prescription. Receptionists are more likely to use the telephone contact for scheduling an office visit.", "PMID": 429976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_245", "title": "An approach to locating a family practice office in a metropolitan area.", "content": "A simple, economically feasible approach to locating a family practice office within a metropolitan area is presented. The Grand Rapids area serves as the population base for this investigation. An Office Location-Population Profile is determined from census tract population data and known physician office distrubution. Based on this information, a subsegment of the total area is delineated as a possible neighborhood for an office location and a physician-opulation ratio for this subsegment is determined. This is compared with recommended ratios. A statistical profile of the population, within the area considered as a possible site location, is developed using information available through census bureau statistics. Finally, a direct survey of a random sample of households within the selected area is performed. This format provides an objective approach to facilitate rational decision making in locating a family practice office in a metropolitan area.", "contents": "An approach to locating a family practice office in a metropolitan area. A simple, economically feasible approach to locating a family practice office within a metropolitan area is presented. The Grand Rapids area serves as the population base for this investigation. An Office Location-Population Profile is determined from census tract population data and known physician office distrubution. Based on this information, a subsegment of the total area is delineated as a possible neighborhood for an office location and a physician-opulation ratio for this subsegment is determined. This is compared with recommended ratios. A statistical profile of the population, within the area considered as a possible site location, is developed using information available through census bureau statistics. Finally, a direct survey of a random sample of households within the selected area is performed. This format provides an objective approach to facilitate rational decision making in locating a family practice office in a metropolitan area.", "PMID": 429977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_246", "title": "Emergency room misuse by medical assistance patients in a family practice residency.", "content": "Four hundred individual Emergency Room records were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, complaint, diagnosis, and treatment were tabulated and analyzed by computer assistance. Judgment was not made regarding the necessity of physician consultation, but whether an Emergency Room visit was warranted considering the duration of the presenting complaint. During a time period when 29 percent of the total outpatient visits to the Family Practice Center Model Office were made by recipients of Medical Assistance, the same population accounted for 53 percent of the Emergency Room visits reviewed. Twenty-five percent of the 400 visits were judged to be unnecessary according to the pre-established criteria. Sixty-four percent of the unnecessary visits were by Medical Assistance patients. Of 304 total families represented, 73 were responsible for multiple visits. Thirty-one percent of these visits were unnecessary, whereas 21 percent of the visits made by families with single visits were unnecessary. In this family practice setting, it is concluded that Medical Assistance patients have a greater tendency toward inappropriate use of the Emergency Room when compared to non-Assistance patients.", "contents": "Emergency room misuse by medical assistance patients in a family practice residency. Four hundred individual Emergency Room records were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, complaint, diagnosis, and treatment were tabulated and analyzed by computer assistance. Judgment was not made regarding the necessity of physician consultation, but whether an Emergency Room visit was warranted considering the duration of the presenting complaint. During a time period when 29 percent of the total outpatient visits to the Family Practice Center Model Office were made by recipients of Medical Assistance, the same population accounted for 53 percent of the Emergency Room visits reviewed. Twenty-five percent of the 400 visits were judged to be unnecessary according to the pre-established criteria. Sixty-four percent of the unnecessary visits were by Medical Assistance patients. Of 304 total families represented, 73 were responsible for multiple visits. Thirty-one percent of these visits were unnecessary, whereas 21 percent of the visits made by families with single visits were unnecessary. In this family practice setting, it is concluded that Medical Assistance patients have a greater tendency toward inappropriate use of the Emergency Room when compared to non-Assistance patients.", "PMID": 429978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_247", "title": "Health action alliance: a consumer approach to improving ambulatory care in a family practice residency clinic.", "content": "\"The Health Action Alliance for Family Practice Clinic--St. Marys\" is a group of physicians, patients, and clinic personnel who meet regularly for the purpose of providing a forum for interaction between health care personnel and patients. The group deals with patient training for effective participation in general clinic activities, participation in decision making processes of the clinic, health education, and other topics as the group decides. This paper discusses the formation of the group, its purposes, accomplishments, and plans for the future.", "contents": "Health action alliance: a consumer approach to improving ambulatory care in a family practice residency clinic. \"The Health Action Alliance for Family Practice Clinic--St. Marys\" is a group of physicians, patients, and clinic personnel who meet regularly for the purpose of providing a forum for interaction between health care personnel and patients. The group deals with patient training for effective participation in general clinic activities, participation in decision making processes of the clinic, health education, and other topics as the group decides. This paper discusses the formation of the group, its purposes, accomplishments, and plans for the future.", "PMID": 429979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_248", "title": "The depressed patient.", "content": "SAdness and normal grief are distinguished from pathological grief and depression by intensity, duration, precipitating events, and the quality of psychopathological features. Depression is evaluated as a final common pathway of potential psychodynamic, genetic, psychosocial, physiological, and personality characteristics or events. The clinical entity of depression is diagnosed by describing some of each of the affective, behavioral, and cognitive changes concomitant with depression. The clinical entity of depression is further differentiated for purposes of treatment into the categories of bipolar depression (manic-depressive illness), unipolar depression (psychotic depressive reaction or involutional melancholia), neurotic depression, and secondary depression (secondary to somatic disease, drugs, or to other psychiatric disorders). The immediate treatment depends on the type of depression diagnosed. Unipolar and bipolar depressions respond to specific pharmacologic therapy and supportive care. Neurotic and characterologic depressions respond to supportive or insight psychotherapy with possible brief adjunctive anti-anxiety or hypnotic medication. All of the treatment modalities, with the possilbe exception of insight psychotherapy, can be effected very adequately by the primary care physician who is given clear diagnostic and assessment guidelines with specific treatment approaches.", "contents": "The depressed patient. SAdness and normal grief are distinguished from pathological grief and depression by intensity, duration, precipitating events, and the quality of psychopathological features. Depression is evaluated as a final common pathway of potential psychodynamic, genetic, psychosocial, physiological, and personality characteristics or events. The clinical entity of depression is diagnosed by describing some of each of the affective, behavioral, and cognitive changes concomitant with depression. The clinical entity of depression is further differentiated for purposes of treatment into the categories of bipolar depression (manic-depressive illness), unipolar depression (psychotic depressive reaction or involutional melancholia), neurotic depression, and secondary depression (secondary to somatic disease, drugs, or to other psychiatric disorders). The immediate treatment depends on the type of depression diagnosed. Unipolar and bipolar depressions respond to specific pharmacologic therapy and supportive care. Neurotic and characterologic depressions respond to supportive or insight psychotherapy with possible brief adjunctive anti-anxiety or hypnotic medication. All of the treatment modalities, with the possilbe exception of insight psychotherapy, can be effected very adequately by the primary care physician who is given clear diagnostic and assessment guidelines with specific treatment approaches.", "PMID": 429980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_249", "title": "Fracture management by family physicians and guidelines for referral.", "content": "Family physicians are now receiving more formal training in orthopedics, preparing them to deal with common orthopedic problems. Core curriculum objectives for orthopedics are being developed in family practice programs. Family physicians should have guidelines as to which fractures and dislocations they themselves can manage and which fractures should be managed by orthopedists. General guidelines for consultation and referral are presented, and the management of specific common fractures in adults and children is outlined. Many fractures can be cared for by the family physician with appropriate consultation and advice from the orthopedist.", "contents": "Fracture management by family physicians and guidelines for referral. Family physicians are now receiving more formal training in orthopedics, preparing them to deal with common orthopedic problems. Core curriculum objectives for orthopedics are being developed in family practice programs. Family physicians should have guidelines as to which fractures and dislocations they themselves can manage and which fractures should be managed by orthopedists. General guidelines for consultation and referral are presented, and the management of specific common fractures in adults and children is outlined. Many fractures can be cared for by the family physician with appropriate consultation and advice from the orthopedist.", "PMID": 429990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_250", "title": "A study of hysterectomy in a family practice.", "content": "This paper reports on a study of women in a family practice who have undergone hysterectomy as compared with a group of matched controls. Significant differences were found in the greater number of major surgical procedures (other than hysterectomy) and the reporting of chronic and recurrent symptoms for the study group. Study group women were also found to have a greater number of identified intrapersonal and family problems. There was no significant difference, however, in the number of identified chronic organic problems. Differences which did not reach statistical significance suggest that women in the study group may be more likely to be living without a male partner, to be using long-term medication, and to be smokers. A most important finding was that the group of women who had undergone hysterectomy had also had 2.6 times the number of major surgical operations than the controls, excluding the hysterectomy. There were no differences between the two groups with respect to a number of other factors studied, eg, education, religion, history of psychiatric admission, obesity.", "contents": "A study of hysterectomy in a family practice. This paper reports on a study of women in a family practice who have undergone hysterectomy as compared with a group of matched controls. Significant differences were found in the greater number of major surgical procedures (other than hysterectomy) and the reporting of chronic and recurrent symptoms for the study group. Study group women were also found to have a greater number of identified intrapersonal and family problems. There was no significant difference, however, in the number of identified chronic organic problems. Differences which did not reach statistical significance suggest that women in the study group may be more likely to be living without a male partner, to be using long-term medication, and to be smokers. A most important finding was that the group of women who had undergone hysterectomy had also had 2.6 times the number of major surgical operations than the controls, excluding the hysterectomy. There were no differences between the two groups with respect to a number of other factors studied, eg, education, religion, history of psychiatric admission, obesity.", "PMID": 429991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_251", "title": "The content of physician/patient communication in family practice.", "content": "Observation of a series of office visits by patients to family physicians provide information on physician-patient communication. During interaction on medical matters, the physicians instigated 80 percent of the interview. By way of contrast, when discussion of matters beyond the strictly medical situation occurred, 70 percent of the conversation was initiated by the patients. Irrespective of diagnoses, there were significant differences in the overall content of communications for patients from different socioeconomic groups, with more verbal exchange occurring with upper social class patients than with lower social class patients. Other patient factors which led to an increase in verbal interaction were chronic illness, emotional disorders, and ill-defined conditions. The analysis of categories of verbal interaction between physicians and patients proved to be a practical method of studying the physician-patient relationship, and provided guidelines for those seeking to make objective measurements of communication in family practice.", "contents": "The content of physician/patient communication in family practice. Observation of a series of office visits by patients to family physicians provide information on physician-patient communication. During interaction on medical matters, the physicians instigated 80 percent of the interview. By way of contrast, when discussion of matters beyond the strictly medical situation occurred, 70 percent of the conversation was initiated by the patients. Irrespective of diagnoses, there were significant differences in the overall content of communications for patients from different socioeconomic groups, with more verbal exchange occurring with upper social class patients than with lower social class patients. Other patient factors which led to an increase in verbal interaction were chronic illness, emotional disorders, and ill-defined conditions. The analysis of categories of verbal interaction between physicians and patients proved to be a practical method of studying the physician-patient relationship, and provided guidelines for those seeking to make objective measurements of communication in family practice.", "PMID": 429992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_252", "title": "Orthopedic problems in family practice: incidence, distribution, and curricular implications.", "content": "The spectrum of orthopedic problems encountered by family physicians in everyday practice has received little study in the past. This paper presents and analyzes the incidence and distribution of orthopedic problems in general/family practice based on four sources of secondary data. These sources include the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, a Family Practice Service in a large military teaching hospital, a state wide study in Virginia, and two community-based family practice settings in Washington State. Orthopedic problems constitute about ten percent of all office visits in family practice. Over one half of these involve chronic, nontraumatic musculoskeletal problems. Major differences are noted in the distribution of sprains, strains, and fractures in adults and children. Fractures of the hand, foot, forearm, lower leg, and clavicle comprise between 50 and 80 percent of fractures seen in the settings under study. This kind of information should be helpful in better defining goals and methods for graduate training of family practice residents in orthopedics.", "contents": "Orthopedic problems in family practice: incidence, distribution, and curricular implications. The spectrum of orthopedic problems encountered by family physicians in everyday practice has received little study in the past. This paper presents and analyzes the incidence and distribution of orthopedic problems in general/family practice based on four sources of secondary data. These sources include the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, a Family Practice Service in a large military teaching hospital, a state wide study in Virginia, and two community-based family practice settings in Washington State. Orthopedic problems constitute about ten percent of all office visits in family practice. Over one half of these involve chronic, nontraumatic musculoskeletal problems. Major differences are noted in the distribution of sprains, strains, and fractures in adults and children. Fractures of the hand, foot, forearm, lower leg, and clavicle comprise between 50 and 80 percent of fractures seen in the settings under study. This kind of information should be helpful in better defining goals and methods for graduate training of family practice residents in orthopedics.", "PMID": 429993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_253", "title": "A structured experiential curriculum in community medicine.", "content": "In order to provide experimental training in community medicine, a structured curriculum has been developed. Specific methodological skills in community medicine are identified and nine content areas are presented in seminar form during the three-year training program. Each resident is expected to participate in a community health care project and demonstrate one or more of the methodological skills identified. The experiences of two residents are reported. One involved a community health needs assessment and one, the development of a mechanism to ensure continuing consumer/provider communication.", "contents": "A structured experiential curriculum in community medicine. In order to provide experimental training in community medicine, a structured curriculum has been developed. Specific methodological skills in community medicine are identified and nine content areas are presented in seminar form during the three-year training program. Each resident is expected to participate in a community health care project and demonstrate one or more of the methodological skills identified. The experiences of two residents are reported. One involved a community health needs assessment and one, the development of a mechanism to ensure continuing consumer/provider communication.", "PMID": 429994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_254", "title": "Some principles of epidemiologic studies.", "content": "The use of epidemiological evidence is frequently involved in clinical decision making. Usually epidemiological investigation seeks to determine the extent of the association between a suspected factor and the occurrence of a disease. When the data are collected retrospectively then rates of exposure to the factor are compared for a group of cases of the disease and a group of controls. If the study is prospective then incidence rates of the disease are compared for a group exposed to the factor and an unexposed group. Although the retrospective approach is often more feasible it is also more vulnerable to bias. The possible influence of bias and chance must be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of any study. Relative risk serves as a useful index for expressing the strength of the association between the factor and the disease.", "contents": "Some principles of epidemiologic studies. The use of epidemiological evidence is frequently involved in clinical decision making. Usually epidemiological investigation seeks to determine the extent of the association between a suspected factor and the occurrence of a disease. When the data are collected retrospectively then rates of exposure to the factor are compared for a group of cases of the disease and a group of controls. If the study is prospective then incidence rates of the disease are compared for a group exposed to the factor and an unexposed group. Although the retrospective approach is often more feasible it is also more vulnerable to bias. The possible influence of bias and chance must be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of any study. Relative risk serves as a useful index for expressing the strength of the association between the factor and the disease.", "PMID": 429995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_255", "title": "Failed appointments: a review.", "content": "Failed appointments disrupt office operations. Most studies involved hospital clinics with low socioeconomic populations, which have shown fail rates between 19 and 28 percent. Family practice centers report fail rates which vary from 5 to 11 percent. Young adults, adults with young children, and patients in low socioeconomics groups tend to increase the fail rate. Sex and race are probably not a factor. Reasons for failing appointments include communication problems, the absence of a sense of urgency for keeping the appointment, and the lack of a personal physician. An interval greater than two weeks between appointment scheduling and the appointment date places patients most at risk for failing the appointment. Mail and telephone reminders significantly reduced the fail rate and are cost efficient. Incentives are also used in reducing the fail rate. By examining the process, the patients, the provider, and the environment with respect to appointment keeping behavior, a more quantitative approach to research on the subject can be effected.", "contents": "Failed appointments: a review. Failed appointments disrupt office operations. Most studies involved hospital clinics with low socioeconomic populations, which have shown fail rates between 19 and 28 percent. Family practice centers report fail rates which vary from 5 to 11 percent. Young adults, adults with young children, and patients in low socioeconomics groups tend to increase the fail rate. Sex and race are probably not a factor. Reasons for failing appointments include communication problems, the absence of a sense of urgency for keeping the appointment, and the lack of a personal physician. An interval greater than two weeks between appointment scheduling and the appointment date places patients most at risk for failing the appointment. Mail and telephone reminders significantly reduced the fail rate and are cost efficient. Incentives are also used in reducing the fail rate. By examining the process, the patients, the provider, and the environment with respect to appointment keeping behavior, a more quantitative approach to research on the subject can be effected.", "PMID": 429996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_256", "title": "A method for determining patients' perceptions of their health needs.", "content": "Success or failure in establishing a meaningful relationship between physician and patient depends to a large extent on how fully the patient communicates, and the physician understands, his/her health needs. Return visits, compliance with the physician's prescribed regimen, and the effectiveness of the treatment and rehabilitation are also closely related to the disclosure and assessment of the patient's health needs. A model of how health needs are determined is presented. Various behavioral outcomes which follow the identification of a health problem and assessment of health needs by a patient are discussed. A Health Needs Assessment Questionnaire is presented in English and Spanish to be used and tested as an aid to the family physician in assessing patient's health needs at the first encounter.", "contents": "A method for determining patients' perceptions of their health needs. Success or failure in establishing a meaningful relationship between physician and patient depends to a large extent on how fully the patient communicates, and the physician understands, his/her health needs. Return visits, compliance with the physician's prescribed regimen, and the effectiveness of the treatment and rehabilitation are also closely related to the disclosure and assessment of the patient's health needs. A model of how health needs are determined is presented. Various behavioral outcomes which follow the identification of a health problem and assessment of health needs by a patient are discussed. A Health Needs Assessment Questionnaire is presented in English and Spanish to be used and tested as an aid to the family physician in assessing patient's health needs at the first encounter.", "PMID": 429998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_257", "title": "Bacteriocin, plasmid and pectolytic diversity in Pseudomonas cepacia of clinical and plant origin.", "content": "Pseudomonas cepacia strains of plant and clinical origin were compared with the type strains of P. cepacia, P. kingii and P. multivorans. Conventional biochemical tests and antibiotic sensitivity patterns supported the previous proposals of synonymy between P. cepacia, P. kingii and P. multivorans. However, bacteriocin production patterns, onion maceration tests and hydrolysis of low pH pectate agar clearly differentiated strains of clinical and plant origin into two distinct groups; these tests may therefore be helpful in epidemiological studies. In contrast, plant and clinical strains were of equal lethality to mice. Agarose gel electrophoresis indicated the presence of one or more plasmids (molecular weights 9 X 10(6) to 120 X 10(6)) in 15 out of 16 strains of both types examined.", "contents": "Bacteriocin, plasmid and pectolytic diversity in Pseudomonas cepacia of clinical and plant origin. Pseudomonas cepacia strains of plant and clinical origin were compared with the type strains of P. cepacia, P. kingii and P. multivorans. Conventional biochemical tests and antibiotic sensitivity patterns supported the previous proposals of synonymy between P. cepacia, P. kingii and P. multivorans. However, bacteriocin production patterns, onion maceration tests and hydrolysis of low pH pectate agar clearly differentiated strains of clinical and plant origin into two distinct groups; these tests may therefore be helpful in epidemiological studies. In contrast, plant and clinical strains were of equal lethality to mice. Agarose gel electrophoresis indicated the presence of one or more plasmids (molecular weights 9 X 10(6) to 120 X 10(6)) in 15 out of 16 strains of both types examined.", "PMID": 430027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_258", "title": "Productive influenza virus infection of synchronized chick embryo fibroblast cells.", "content": "The effects of cell metabolic activity on the outcome of influenza virus infection were studied in partially synchronized chick embryo fibroblast cultures. There was no evidence to show that the time in the cell cycle at which cells were infected had any significant effect on the final virus yield. However, some differences were detected in the length of the latent period between infections established in synchronized or in stationary cells. Influenza virus could replicate in synchronized or normal cell cultures in which DNA synthesis was inhibited with 9-beta-D-arabinofuranosyladenine (ara-A).", "contents": "Productive influenza virus infection of synchronized chick embryo fibroblast cells. The effects of cell metabolic activity on the outcome of influenza virus infection were studied in partially synchronized chick embryo fibroblast cultures. There was no evidence to show that the time in the cell cycle at which cells were infected had any significant effect on the final virus yield. However, some differences were detected in the length of the latent period between infections established in synchronized or in stationary cells. Influenza virus could replicate in synchronized or normal cell cultures in which DNA synthesis was inhibited with 9-beta-D-arabinofuranosyladenine (ara-A).", "PMID": 430030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_259", "title": "Effects of leukocyte and fibroblast interferon on events in the fibroblast cell cycle.", "content": "Serum-depleted human foetal skin fibroblasts were stimulated by addition of 10% foetal calf serum to proliferate synchronously for at least one cell cycle. This proliferation was suppressed by leukocyte or fibroblast interferon (IF), which prolonged the G1 phase and diminished the rate of DNA synthesis during the S phase in a dose-dependent manner. When used in identical concentration, as judged in terms of units of antiviral activity, fibroblast IF had more pronounced effects on cell cycle events than leukocyte IF. Interferon exerted its effect in early G1, before the cells were irreversibly committed to DNA synthesis.", "contents": "Effects of leukocyte and fibroblast interferon on events in the fibroblast cell cycle. Serum-depleted human foetal skin fibroblasts were stimulated by addition of 10% foetal calf serum to proliferate synchronously for at least one cell cycle. This proliferation was suppressed by leukocyte or fibroblast interferon (IF), which prolonged the G1 phase and diminished the rate of DNA synthesis during the S phase in a dose-dependent manner. When used in identical concentration, as judged in terms of units of antiviral activity, fibroblast IF had more pronounced effects on cell cycle events than leukocyte IF. Interferon exerted its effect in early G1, before the cells were irreversibly committed to DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 430031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_260", "title": "A comparison of polypeptides in measles and SSPE virus strains.", "content": "The polypeptide patterns of twelve subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) and measles viruses have been compared by slab gel electrophoresis. The polypeptide patterns of nine strains of SSPE and measles virus were identical. Differences in the NP protein and the HA protein of the Oddo strain, the P protein of the large plaque variant of the Lec strain of SSPE and in the M protein of the Hu 2 measles strain could not be correlated with biological characteristics such as plaque morphology, origin or haemagglutination properties.", "contents": "A comparison of polypeptides in measles and SSPE virus strains. The polypeptide patterns of twelve subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) and measles viruses have been compared by slab gel electrophoresis. The polypeptide patterns of nine strains of SSPE and measles virus were identical. Differences in the NP protein and the HA protein of the Oddo strain, the P protein of the large plaque variant of the Lec strain of SSPE and in the M protein of the Hu 2 measles strain could not be correlated with biological characteristics such as plaque morphology, origin or haemagglutination properties.", "PMID": 430032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_261", "title": "Togavirus interference in Culex annulirostris mosquitoes.", "content": "Culex annulirostris mosquitoes infected with SFV-S, a temperature-sensitive, small-plaque mutant of Semliki Forest virus isolated from cultured Aedes albopictus cells, could not be infected later with wild-type virus (SFV-W). Interference occurred as soon as 24 h after infection with SFV-S. In mosquitoes infected with a mixture of the two viruses, both replicated normally.", "contents": "Togavirus interference in Culex annulirostris mosquitoes. Culex annulirostris mosquitoes infected with SFV-S, a temperature-sensitive, small-plaque mutant of Semliki Forest virus isolated from cultured Aedes albopictus cells, could not be infected later with wild-type virus (SFV-W). Interference occurred as soon as 24 h after infection with SFV-S. In mosquitoes infected with a mixture of the two viruses, both replicated normally.", "PMID": 430033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_262", "title": "Requirement of adenovirus type 12 gene 401 function for initiation of virus DNA synthesis.", "content": "The highly oncogenic human adenovirus type 12 temperature sensitive mutant. H12ts401, is unable to maintain the growth characteristics of transformed cells at the non-permissive temperature. In lytic infection, the 401 gene function is required to produce virus DNA. In the present study, virus DNA synthesized in ts401-infected human cells after temperature shift-up was characterized. No apparent suppression of DNA chain elongation or ligation occurs at the non-permissive temperature, but, as shown by density labelling, new initiation of virus DNA replication is inhibited under this condition. The results indicate that the 401 gene function is involved in the initiation of virus DNA synthesis in the lytic cycle.", "contents": "Requirement of adenovirus type 12 gene 401 function for initiation of virus DNA synthesis. The highly oncogenic human adenovirus type 12 temperature sensitive mutant. H12ts401, is unable to maintain the growth characteristics of transformed cells at the non-permissive temperature. In lytic infection, the 401 gene function is required to produce virus DNA. In the present study, virus DNA synthesized in ts401-infected human cells after temperature shift-up was characterized. No apparent suppression of DNA chain elongation or ligation occurs at the non-permissive temperature, but, as shown by density labelling, new initiation of virus DNA replication is inhibited under this condition. The results indicate that the 401 gene function is involved in the initiation of virus DNA synthesis in the lytic cycle.", "PMID": 430034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_263", "title": "Increased calcium-activated neutral protease activity in muscles of dystrophic hamsters and mice.", "content": "A Ca2+-activated neutral protease activity was examined in muscles of normal and dystrophic hamsters and mice. Light grey and golden brown strains of normal and B10 14.6 strain of dystrophic hamsters were used. Normal and dystrophic mice were of the Bar Harbor 129 ReJ strain. Enzyme activity was measured in the post myofibrillar fraction (homogenate) and in the 75,000 x g pellet (particulate fraction) and supernatant using purified myofibrils. In normal and dystrophic hamsters or mice, the Ca2+-activated neutral protease was most active in the supernatant followed by the homogenate and particulate fractions. As compared to fractions from normal muscle, enzyme activity was significantly elevated in all 3 fractions from dystrophic muscles of hamsters and mice. Both homogenate and supernatant fractions from muscles of normal hamsters had significantly higher enzyme activity than those of normal mice. Enzyme activity was similar in the particulate fraction. Similarly enzyme activity in the 3 fractions from dystrophic hamster and mouse muscles showed no significant difference. It is suggested that the Ca2+-activated neutral protease may be involved in muscle fibre necrosis in muscular dystrophy.", "contents": "Increased calcium-activated neutral protease activity in muscles of dystrophic hamsters and mice. A Ca2+-activated neutral protease activity was examined in muscles of normal and dystrophic hamsters and mice. Light grey and golden brown strains of normal and B10 14.6 strain of dystrophic hamsters were used. Normal and dystrophic mice were of the Bar Harbor 129 ReJ strain. Enzyme activity was measured in the post myofibrillar fraction (homogenate) and in the 75,000 x g pellet (particulate fraction) and supernatant using purified myofibrils. In normal and dystrophic hamsters or mice, the Ca2+-activated neutral protease was most active in the supernatant followed by the homogenate and particulate fractions. As compared to fractions from normal muscle, enzyme activity was significantly elevated in all 3 fractions from dystrophic muscles of hamsters and mice. Both homogenate and supernatant fractions from muscles of normal hamsters had significantly higher enzyme activity than those of normal mice. Enzyme activity was similar in the particulate fraction. Similarly enzyme activity in the 3 fractions from dystrophic hamster and mouse muscles showed no significant difference. It is suggested that the Ca2+-activated neutral protease may be involved in muscle fibre necrosis in muscular dystrophy.", "PMID": 430097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_264", "title": "Inhibition by polyunsaturated phospholipids of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in the guinea pig.", "content": "This paper reports the effect of polyunsaturated phospholipids (Lipostabil, Nattermann, Cologne) on the severity of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in guinea pigs. A dose of 100 mg/kg of Lipostabil solution, containing about 50 mg of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), was inoculated i.v. beginning on the 3rd day after sensitization with 100 microgram of basic protein (BP) in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). A series of 7--14 daily injections either completely inhibited EAE or reduced its severity. The production of anti-BP antibodies, detected by indirect immunofluorescence and radioimmunoassay, was not affected, whereas cellular reaction as measured by a skin test was markedly reduced. These findings confirm previous reports on the immunoregulative effect of UFA, even if a potentiating effect of additional components of Lipostabil (vitamin B6, nicotinic acid and adenosine-5-monophosphoric acid) cannot be excluded. Serological findings support the assumption that the regulative effect mainly influences the cellular response. In this way deviation in the immune reaction leading to cellular immunopathology might be prevented or decreased.", "contents": "Inhibition by polyunsaturated phospholipids of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in the guinea pig. This paper reports the effect of polyunsaturated phospholipids (Lipostabil, Nattermann, Cologne) on the severity of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in guinea pigs. A dose of 100 mg/kg of Lipostabil solution, containing about 50 mg of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), was inoculated i.v. beginning on the 3rd day after sensitization with 100 microgram of basic protein (BP) in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). A series of 7--14 daily injections either completely inhibited EAE or reduced its severity. The production of anti-BP antibodies, detected by indirect immunofluorescence and radioimmunoassay, was not affected, whereas cellular reaction as measured by a skin test was markedly reduced. These findings confirm previous reports on the immunoregulative effect of UFA, even if a potentiating effect of additional components of Lipostabil (vitamin B6, nicotinic acid and adenosine-5-monophosphoric acid) cannot be excluded. Serological findings support the assumption that the regulative effect mainly influences the cellular response. In this way deviation in the immune reaction leading to cellular immunopathology might be prevented or decreased.", "PMID": 430098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_265", "title": "Decrease of muscle extensibility and reduction of sarcomere number in soleus muscle following a local injection of tetanus toxin.", "content": "Slow soleus muscle in guinea pig developed within 4--6 days after local injection of a sublethal dose of tetanus toxin and 2--4 days after the first signs of local tetanus, a myostatic contracture characterized by a change in the passive tension--lengthening curve associated with a considerable decrease of the sarcomere number. It was demonstrated by clinical and EMG investigations that the soleus did have a tetanic spasm at least within the 2--4 day period of observation. When local tetanus was confined to slow soleus by functional suppression of rapid gastrocnemius and ankle flexor muscles, the decrease of the sarcomere number still persisted. This decrease failed to occur after section of the nerve supplying the soleus when associated with an injection of the tetanus toxin, and was much greater than when the soleus was passively shortened for the same period of time by plaster cast.", "contents": "Decrease of muscle extensibility and reduction of sarcomere number in soleus muscle following a local injection of tetanus toxin. Slow soleus muscle in guinea pig developed within 4--6 days after local injection of a sublethal dose of tetanus toxin and 2--4 days after the first signs of local tetanus, a myostatic contracture characterized by a change in the passive tension--lengthening curve associated with a considerable decrease of the sarcomere number. It was demonstrated by clinical and EMG investigations that the soleus did have a tetanic spasm at least within the 2--4 day period of observation. When local tetanus was confined to slow soleus by functional suppression of rapid gastrocnemius and ankle flexor muscles, the decrease of the sarcomere number still persisted. This decrease failed to occur after section of the nerve supplying the soleus when associated with an injection of the tetanus toxin, and was much greater than when the soleus was passively shortened for the same period of time by plaster cast.", "PMID": 430099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_266", "title": "Benign intracranial hypertension. A retrospective and follow-up study.", "content": "Thirty-six patients with benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) were reviewed. Follow-up was obtained on 33 patients (91%) after a mean period of 7 1/2 years. Precipitating factors were found in 27 patients (75%). On admission, 5 patients had retro-ocular pain, especially on eye movements, a complaint not yet described in BIH. Seven patients had nystagmus, two of them horizontal positional nystagmus. It is questionable whether all signs in BIH are caused by the raised CSF pressure. The general outcome was good. Only two patients sustained severe ultimate visual impairment. Both presented with retro-ocular pain and sudden loss of vision on admission. Papilloedema can persist for years in BIH without serious visual impairment. Sometimes \"causal\" treatment is possible. No symptomatic treatment which is free from complications has been proved to prevent visual failure.", "contents": "Benign intracranial hypertension. A retrospective and follow-up study. Thirty-six patients with benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) were reviewed. Follow-up was obtained on 33 patients (91%) after a mean period of 7 1/2 years. Precipitating factors were found in 27 patients (75%). On admission, 5 patients had retro-ocular pain, especially on eye movements, a complaint not yet described in BIH. Seven patients had nystagmus, two of them horizontal positional nystagmus. It is questionable whether all signs in BIH are caused by the raised CSF pressure. The general outcome was good. Only two patients sustained severe ultimate visual impairment. Both presented with retro-ocular pain and sudden loss of vision on admission. Papilloedema can persist for years in BIH without serious visual impairment. Sometimes \"causal\" treatment is possible. No symptomatic treatment which is free from complications has been proved to prevent visual failure.", "PMID": 430100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_267", "title": "Clinical data and the identification of special forms of multiple sclerosis in 1271 cases studied with a standardized documentation system.", "content": "In a multicenter study the clinical data of 1271 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) were recorded in a standardized manner and analysed by a computer program. Some of the retrospective data are compared with previous reports. The frequency of optic nerve involvement in the present series was close to the Japanese figures. The development of signs and symptoms during the course of MS was given for the 1271 patients and differences in the reversibility of symptoms are presented. In this study, one of the chief purposes was the selection of groups of MS patients with particular symptomatology and course of the disease for prospective, detailed study. The following groups were selected and are under further investigation: 109 patients with an exclusively spinal symptomatology throughout the course of their disease; 441 patients with optic neuritis as initial symptom; 110 patients with early brain-stem involvement; 64 benign cases (duration of the disease more than 14 years and disability not more than 3 according to Kurtzke), 35 malignant cases (duration of the disease under 5 years and disability grade of 7 or more); 83 families with more than one member with MS; 289 females with a history of pregnancy, childbirth and/or use of oral contraceptives. In 339 patients a lumbar puncture was performed at the present examination. The parameters determined constitute a pathognomonic pattern highly indicative of the diagnosis of MS.", "contents": "Clinical data and the identification of special forms of multiple sclerosis in 1271 cases studied with a standardized documentation system. In a multicenter study the clinical data of 1271 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) were recorded in a standardized manner and analysed by a computer program. Some of the retrospective data are compared with previous reports. The frequency of optic nerve involvement in the present series was close to the Japanese figures. The development of signs and symptoms during the course of MS was given for the 1271 patients and differences in the reversibility of symptoms are presented. In this study, one of the chief purposes was the selection of groups of MS patients with particular symptomatology and course of the disease for prospective, detailed study. The following groups were selected and are under further investigation: 109 patients with an exclusively spinal symptomatology throughout the course of their disease; 441 patients with optic neuritis as initial symptom; 110 patients with early brain-stem involvement; 64 benign cases (duration of the disease more than 14 years and disability not more than 3 according to Kurtzke), 35 malignant cases (duration of the disease under 5 years and disability grade of 7 or more); 83 families with more than one member with MS; 289 females with a history of pregnancy, childbirth and/or use of oral contraceptives. In 339 patients a lumbar puncture was performed at the present examination. The parameters determined constitute a pathognomonic pattern highly indicative of the diagnosis of MS.", "PMID": 430101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_268", "title": "Adrenoleukodystrophy brain cholesteryl esters and other neutral lipids.", "content": "Further examination of the neutral lipid fractions derived from brain tissue of two patients afflicted with adrenoleukodystrophy has demonstrated the presence not only of free cholesterol and cholesteryl ester, but also of appreciable free fatty acid and triglyceride. Using a gas--liquid chromatographic system normally employed for the analysis of long-chain fatty acids of galactolipids and spingomyelin, it was possible to establish the presence of long-chain (greater than C20) fatty acids in the cholesteryl ester, free fatty acid and triglyceride fractions. Long-chain fatty acids were most abundant in the cholesteryl esters. Fatty acids identified by gas--liquid chromatography and gas chromatography--mass spectroscopy included normal saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids as large as C34. Several unknown fatty acyl compounds, of as yet undetermined structure, were also observed. All investigations thus far would indicate that the pathogenesis of adrenoleukodystrophy is closely related to the aberrant metabolism of these long-chain fatty acids.", "contents": "Adrenoleukodystrophy brain cholesteryl esters and other neutral lipids. Further examination of the neutral lipid fractions derived from brain tissue of two patients afflicted with adrenoleukodystrophy has demonstrated the presence not only of free cholesterol and cholesteryl ester, but also of appreciable free fatty acid and triglyceride. Using a gas--liquid chromatographic system normally employed for the analysis of long-chain fatty acids of galactolipids and spingomyelin, it was possible to establish the presence of long-chain (greater than C20) fatty acids in the cholesteryl ester, free fatty acid and triglyceride fractions. Long-chain fatty acids were most abundant in the cholesteryl esters. Fatty acids identified by gas--liquid chromatography and gas chromatography--mass spectroscopy included normal saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids as large as C34. Several unknown fatty acyl compounds, of as yet undetermined structure, were also observed. All investigations thus far would indicate that the pathogenesis of adrenoleukodystrophy is closely related to the aberrant metabolism of these long-chain fatty acids.", "PMID": 430102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_269", "title": "Magnesium and inorganic phosphate content in CSF related to blood-brain barrier function in neurological disease.", "content": "In normal controls and in a large number of neurological patients divided into certain disease groups both Mg and PO4 were determined in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum. For both Mg and PO4 there was a marked concentration gradient between CSF and serum in normals where Mg was higher and PO4 content lower in CSF. Comparison of CSF values with serum values of patients showed pathological changes only in CSF, serum values always being within the control range. A number of disease processes associated with a disturbance of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function such as inflammatory CNS disease or CNS tumors showed significant alterations of PO4 concentrations in CSF which are interpreted as an approximation of serum values. A similar decrease of Mg did not reach statistical significance. Both Mg and PO4 in CSF showed a correlation with CSF protein concentrations, but no relationship with cells in CSF. Patients with cerebrosvascular disease were not significantly different from controls as regards their Mg and PO4 in CSF, but a small subgroup consisting of patients with an intracranial hemorrhage showed elevation of both Mg and PO4 which could signify cell necrosis rather than BBB dysfunction. Patients with disc protrusion or peripheral neuropathy did not demonstrate any abnormality of CSF Mg and PO4. In the multiple sclerosis group individual patients had elevated CSF concentrations of PO4 but the group as a whole is not different from the controls.", "contents": "Magnesium and inorganic phosphate content in CSF related to blood-brain barrier function in neurological disease. In normal controls and in a large number of neurological patients divided into certain disease groups both Mg and PO4 were determined in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum. For both Mg and PO4 there was a marked concentration gradient between CSF and serum in normals where Mg was higher and PO4 content lower in CSF. Comparison of CSF values with serum values of patients showed pathological changes only in CSF, serum values always being within the control range. A number of disease processes associated with a disturbance of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function such as inflammatory CNS disease or CNS tumors showed significant alterations of PO4 concentrations in CSF which are interpreted as an approximation of serum values. A similar decrease of Mg did not reach statistical significance. Both Mg and PO4 in CSF showed a correlation with CSF protein concentrations, but no relationship with cells in CSF. Patients with cerebrosvascular disease were not significantly different from controls as regards their Mg and PO4 in CSF, but a small subgroup consisting of patients with an intracranial hemorrhage showed elevation of both Mg and PO4 which could signify cell necrosis rather than BBB dysfunction. Patients with disc protrusion or peripheral neuropathy did not demonstrate any abnormality of CSF Mg and PO4. In the multiple sclerosis group individual patients had elevated CSF concentrations of PO4 but the group as a whole is not different from the controls.", "PMID": 430103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_270", "title": "Multi-infarct dementia.", "content": "Fifty-two patients presenting with dementia were divided into a group in whom clinical features suggested an ischaemic basis (multi-infarct dementia) and a group in whom a primary degenerative process seemed more likely. Focal EEG changes and angiographic evidence of ischeamic areas and atheromatous disease of intracranial vessels were more common in the \"ischaemic\" than in the primary degenerative group. CBF was significantly reduced in the former but the regional pattern was equally distorted in the two groups. These findings strengthen the belief that the ischaemic score can identify those patients whose dementia is associated with vascular disease.", "contents": "Multi-infarct dementia. Fifty-two patients presenting with dementia were divided into a group in whom clinical features suggested an ischaemic basis (multi-infarct dementia) and a group in whom a primary degenerative process seemed more likely. Focal EEG changes and angiographic evidence of ischeamic areas and atheromatous disease of intracranial vessels were more common in the \"ischaemic\" than in the primary degenerative group. CBF was significantly reduced in the former but the regional pattern was equally distorted in the two groups. These findings strengthen the belief that the ischaemic score can identify those patients whose dementia is associated with vascular disease.", "PMID": 430104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_271", "title": "An experimental model for cerebral metastasis: preliminary light and ultrastructural studies.", "content": "An experimental model for hematogenously spread cerebral metastases by injection of a suspension of M3 fibrosarcoma cells into the carotid artery of C57 BL/6 mice was developed. Intracerebral metastatic tumor nodules were consistently produced by this method with subsequent death of the animals. Development of extracerebral metastatic disease was minimal. Light and electron microscopic studies were carried out at various time intervals postintracarotid injection of tumor cells to observe the morphologic events during the development of the brain metastases. Tumor cells were observed arrested in the cerebral capillaries from 15 minutes to 4 days post-injection. From 1 day to 4 days post-injection, individual tumor cells were also observed in the pericapillary spaces in the brains of the injected animals. From 5 days post-injection on, tumor cells were seen to be proliferating in peri-capillary spaces displacing the brain parenchyma and eventually formed tumor nodules with resulting death of the animals. Morphological changes were observed in the endothelial cells of the blood vessels which were surrounded by the growing metastatic tumors. This model, and modifications thereof, should prove to be valuable in the study of cerebral metastatic disease.", "contents": "An experimental model for cerebral metastasis: preliminary light and ultrastructural studies. An experimental model for hematogenously spread cerebral metastases by injection of a suspension of M3 fibrosarcoma cells into the carotid artery of C57 BL/6 mice was developed. Intracerebral metastatic tumor nodules were consistently produced by this method with subsequent death of the animals. Development of extracerebral metastatic disease was minimal. Light and electron microscopic studies were carried out at various time intervals postintracarotid injection of tumor cells to observe the morphologic events during the development of the brain metastases. Tumor cells were observed arrested in the cerebral capillaries from 15 minutes to 4 days post-injection. From 1 day to 4 days post-injection, individual tumor cells were also observed in the pericapillary spaces in the brains of the injected animals. From 5 days post-injection on, tumor cells were seen to be proliferating in peri-capillary spaces displacing the brain parenchyma and eventually formed tumor nodules with resulting death of the animals. Morphological changes were observed in the endothelial cells of the blood vessels which were surrounded by the growing metastatic tumors. This model, and modifications thereof, should prove to be valuable in the study of cerebral metastatic disease.", "PMID": 430105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_272", "title": "Acoustic response characteristics of neurons in nonspecific areas of cat cerebral cortex.", "content": "1. Acoustic properties of single neurons in pericruciate, anterior lateral, and medial suprasylvian \"association\" areas were studied in chloralose-anesthetized cats using sealed stimulating systems incorporating probe microphone assemblies. 2. A total of 652 cells were isolated. Approximately 70% of the cells in each area were responsive to acoustic stimulation, and the majority of these cells were also driven by visual and/or somatosensory stimulation. 3. Association cortex neurons responded to tone- or noise-burst stimulation with an onset response of 16--50 ms latency. The onset response was found to be followed by a long period of suppression in those cases in which spontaneous activity was sufficiently high for this to be detected. 4. The majority of 56 units for which detailed frequency-tuning data were obtained had broad, irregular tuning curves extending over 5--6 octaves or more. A small proportion of association cortex cells exhibited sharp tuning comparable to that obtained in control recordings from cells in primary auditory cortex (AI). Although a number of broadly tuned units were rather insensitive, many cells--both broadly and sharply tuned--were of comparable sensitivity to AI cells. 5. Of the association cortex cells examined for binaural properties, 95% received excitatory input from each ear, and the dominant mode of binaural interaction in these cells was one of occlusion. The occurrence of occlusion at suprathreshold intensities reflected a tendency for monoaural and binaural intensity functions to asymptote at the same level. 6. The broad tuning, lability, and polysensory convergence exhibited by association cortex cells are similar to those of the so-called auditory lemniscal adjunct system. However, the binaural properties of association cells differ significantly from those of both the lemniscal line and adjuct components of the auditory pathway. 7. The homogeneity of acoustic and polysensory input to the three association fields is compatible with their input being derived from the single subcortical nonspecific projection system (reticular formation and medial/intralaminar thalamus) postulated by previous investigators. However, both neuroanatomical and neurophysiological evidence suggest that the lemniscal adjunct system and certain areas of periauditory cortex might also contribute to this input.", "contents": "Acoustic response characteristics of neurons in nonspecific areas of cat cerebral cortex. 1. Acoustic properties of single neurons in pericruciate, anterior lateral, and medial suprasylvian \"association\" areas were studied in chloralose-anesthetized cats using sealed stimulating systems incorporating probe microphone assemblies. 2. A total of 652 cells were isolated. Approximately 70% of the cells in each area were responsive to acoustic stimulation, and the majority of these cells were also driven by visual and/or somatosensory stimulation. 3. Association cortex neurons responded to tone- or noise-burst stimulation with an onset response of 16--50 ms latency. The onset response was found to be followed by a long period of suppression in those cases in which spontaneous activity was sufficiently high for this to be detected. 4. The majority of 56 units for which detailed frequency-tuning data were obtained had broad, irregular tuning curves extending over 5--6 octaves or more. A small proportion of association cortex cells exhibited sharp tuning comparable to that obtained in control recordings from cells in primary auditory cortex (AI). Although a number of broadly tuned units were rather insensitive, many cells--both broadly and sharply tuned--were of comparable sensitivity to AI cells. 5. Of the association cortex cells examined for binaural properties, 95% received excitatory input from each ear, and the dominant mode of binaural interaction in these cells was one of occlusion. The occurrence of occlusion at suprathreshold intensities reflected a tendency for monoaural and binaural intensity functions to asymptote at the same level. 6. The broad tuning, lability, and polysensory convergence exhibited by association cortex cells are similar to those of the so-called auditory lemniscal adjunct system. However, the binaural properties of association cells differ significantly from those of both the lemniscal line and adjuct components of the auditory pathway. 7. The homogeneity of acoustic and polysensory input to the three association fields is compatible with their input being derived from the single subcortical nonspecific projection system (reticular formation and medial/intralaminar thalamus) postulated by previous investigators. However, both neuroanatomical and neurophysiological evidence suggest that the lemniscal adjunct system and certain areas of periauditory cortex might also contribute to this input.", "PMID": 430107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_273", "title": "Importance of corpus callosum for visual receptive fields of single neurons in cat superior colliculus.", "content": "1. Section of the posterior two-thirds of the corpus callosum eliminates almost completely the response of superior colliculus (SC) neurons to stimulation of the contralateral eye in split-chiasm cats. On the contrary, the responsiveness of SC neurons to stimulation of the contralateral eye is not abolished by a transection of the posterior and tectal commissures leaving the corpus callosum intact. The callosal section also reduces the number of SC receptive fields abutting the vertical meridian in the ipsilateral eye of split-chiasm cats. 2. In cats with intact optic pathways, a similar callosal section abolishes the SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field in the ipsilateral eye and also reduces the number of receptive fields adjoining the vertical meridian in the same eye. In the contralateral eye, the SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field is reduced in extension to about one-fifth of that seen in cats with intact commissures. 3. The results suggest that the corpus callosum is the main pathway for cross-midline communication of visual information at not only the cortical, but also the midbrain level. The corpus callosum may subserve this function because it contains uninterrupted crossed corticotectal projections or because it transmits visual information from one hemisphere to contralateral cortical areas projecting ipsilaterally to SC. The latter hypothesis is more likely but, in any case, the findings imply that the lack of interhemispheric transfer of visual learning in cats with a chiasmatic and callosal section may depend on a midline disconnection of both subcortical and cortical visual centers. 4. The corpus callosum is also responsible for the representation of the ipsilateral visual field of the ipsilateral eye in the cat SC. The SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field in the contralateral eye is due, in minimal part, to direct retinotectal connections from temporal retina and, for the largest part, to the corpus callosum. 5. Finally, the corpus callosum contributes to the representation of the contralateral visual field near the vertical meridian of the temporal retina in both split-chiasm and normal cats. This is probably due to the scarcity of direct retinotectal projections from this part of the retina and to their supplementation by corticotectal neurons influenced by the callosal afferents.", "contents": "Importance of corpus callosum for visual receptive fields of single neurons in cat superior colliculus. 1. Section of the posterior two-thirds of the corpus callosum eliminates almost completely the response of superior colliculus (SC) neurons to stimulation of the contralateral eye in split-chiasm cats. On the contrary, the responsiveness of SC neurons to stimulation of the contralateral eye is not abolished by a transection of the posterior and tectal commissures leaving the corpus callosum intact. The callosal section also reduces the number of SC receptive fields abutting the vertical meridian in the ipsilateral eye of split-chiasm cats. 2. In cats with intact optic pathways, a similar callosal section abolishes the SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field in the ipsilateral eye and also reduces the number of receptive fields adjoining the vertical meridian in the same eye. In the contralateral eye, the SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field is reduced in extension to about one-fifth of that seen in cats with intact commissures. 3. The results suggest that the corpus callosum is the main pathway for cross-midline communication of visual information at not only the cortical, but also the midbrain level. The corpus callosum may subserve this function because it contains uninterrupted crossed corticotectal projections or because it transmits visual information from one hemisphere to contralateral cortical areas projecting ipsilaterally to SC. The latter hypothesis is more likely but, in any case, the findings imply that the lack of interhemispheric transfer of visual learning in cats with a chiasmatic and callosal section may depend on a midline disconnection of both subcortical and cortical visual centers. 4. The corpus callosum is also responsible for the representation of the ipsilateral visual field of the ipsilateral eye in the cat SC. The SC representation of the ipsilateral visual field in the contralateral eye is due, in minimal part, to direct retinotectal connections from temporal retina and, for the largest part, to the corpus callosum. 5. Finally, the corpus callosum contributes to the representation of the contralateral visual field near the vertical meridian of the temporal retina in both split-chiasm and normal cats. This is probably due to the scarcity of direct retinotectal projections from this part of the retina and to their supplementation by corticotectal neurons influenced by the callosal afferents.", "PMID": 430108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_274", "title": "Triggering of lordosis reflex in female rats with somatosensory stimulation: quantitative determination of stimulus parameters.", "content": "1. Pressure on the skin of the tail base and perineum of female rats in the range of 40--440 millibars, following bilateral contact with the flanks, was adequate to elicit the lordosis reflex. Hair deflection alone or noxious stimulation was neither sufficient nor necessary for lordosis behavior to occur. 2. For a given pressure, increasing the area of stimulation increased the effectiveness for evoking lordosis; inputs from mechanoreceptors at different skin locations can be summated to trigger the behavioral response. 3. During mating behavior, increased pressure from the male rat on the skin of the female, in the range of 50--450 millibars, was associated with increased probability and strength of lordosis. 4. Increasing the dose of estrogen increased the probability of lordosis to a given pressure stimulus. The hormone effect can be characterized as a facilitation of the throughput from low-threshold pressure receptors on tail base and perineum to motoneurons for the lumbar vertebral dorsiflexion of lordosis.", "contents": "Triggering of lordosis reflex in female rats with somatosensory stimulation: quantitative determination of stimulus parameters. 1. Pressure on the skin of the tail base and perineum of female rats in the range of 40--440 millibars, following bilateral contact with the flanks, was adequate to elicit the lordosis reflex. Hair deflection alone or noxious stimulation was neither sufficient nor necessary for lordosis behavior to occur. 2. For a given pressure, increasing the area of stimulation increased the effectiveness for evoking lordosis; inputs from mechanoreceptors at different skin locations can be summated to trigger the behavioral response. 3. During mating behavior, increased pressure from the male rat on the skin of the female, in the range of 50--450 millibars, was associated with increased probability and strength of lordosis. 4. Increasing the dose of estrogen increased the probability of lordosis to a given pressure stimulus. The hormone effect can be characterized as a facilitation of the throughput from low-threshold pressure receptors on tail base and perineum to motoneurons for the lumbar vertebral dorsiflexion of lordosis.", "PMID": 430110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_275", "title": "Responses of single units in sixth lumbar dorsal root ganglion of female rats to mechanostimulation relevant for lordosis reflex.", "content": "1. The activity of single units (n = 312) was recorded from dorsal root ganglion L6 in female rats; 84% received input from cutaneous mechanoreceptors. 2. Among cutaneous mechanoreceptive units (n = 263), 22% responded to individual guard hair movement, 18% to down hair, 11% to clitoral hair, and 14% to stimulation of tylotrich hair-haarscheibe (type I) receptors, 5% responded to punctate skin deformation, but not hair movement of pressure, and 18% responded to pressure. 3. No significant differences between estrogen-treated and untreated ovariectomized rats were observed in receptive-field size, or von Frey hair, or pressure threshold of any given type of unit. 4. The lordosis reflex of female rats is triggered by pressure, but not hair deflection, on skin regions innervated by dorsal root L6 (10). Stimulation from the male rat mounting would cause a barrage of action potentials from most of the unit types identified here, but only pressure units and type I units gave sustained responses to a lordosis-triggering type of pressure stimulation.", "contents": "Responses of single units in sixth lumbar dorsal root ganglion of female rats to mechanostimulation relevant for lordosis reflex. 1. The activity of single units (n = 312) was recorded from dorsal root ganglion L6 in female rats; 84% received input from cutaneous mechanoreceptors. 2. Among cutaneous mechanoreceptive units (n = 263), 22% responded to individual guard hair movement, 18% to down hair, 11% to clitoral hair, and 14% to stimulation of tylotrich hair-haarscheibe (type I) receptors, 5% responded to punctate skin deformation, but not hair movement of pressure, and 18% responded to pressure. 3. No significant differences between estrogen-treated and untreated ovariectomized rats were observed in receptive-field size, or von Frey hair, or pressure threshold of any given type of unit. 4. The lordosis reflex of female rats is triggered by pressure, but not hair deflection, on skin regions innervated by dorsal root L6 (10). Stimulation from the male rat mounting would cause a barrage of action potentials from most of the unit types identified here, but only pressure units and type I units gave sustained responses to a lordosis-triggering type of pressure stimulation.", "PMID": 430111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_276", "title": "Interlimb coordination during stepping in the cat: an electromyographic analysis.", "content": "1. Simultaneous electromyographic (EMG) records were obtained from a single-joint extensor muscle of each of the four limbs of intact cats during repeated overground stepping trials. 2. In each limb, the temporal spacing of step cycles was determined by measurements of the intervals between consecutive terminations of EMG activity, since this occurs in a consistent relationship to the removal of the limb from the ground. By measuring the latencies between step cycles so determined, the temporal spacing of step cycles between limbs was determined. Each latency was expressed as a function of step duration or as a phase interval. 3. Analysis of the cooordination of step cycles of both homologous limb pairs (the forelimbs and hindlimbs), both homolateral limb pairs (the fore- and hindlimb on the right and left sides), and both sets of diagonal limbs suggest that the step cycles of the four limbs are coordinated according to a few frequently occurring patterns. However, the representation of a large number of phase intervals between these preferred patterns indicates a substantial amount of variability in interlimb coupling. 4. Analysis of the interaction of different interlimb-coupling patterns indicates that during alternate coordination of hindlimbs, coupling of the other limbs is fairly predictable. The step cycles of the forelimbs and hindlimbs are spaced according to a trotting form of coupling. During in-phase coordination of hindlimbs, the patterns of coordination of the other limbs are more diffuse. Forelimbs step cycles are coupled via a number of different modes, as are those of the forelimbs and hindlimbs. 5. It is concluded that the step cycles of different limbs are coordinated, but the association of observed patterns of coordination with any known neural pathways or the interaction of neural pathways should be approached with caution. The variability about the frequently occurring patterns is interpreted as an expression of the faculatative capabilities of the neural mechanisms controlling locomotion. Thus, these data favor a model of interlimb control during stepping, which recognizes preferred patterns of coordination and the variability about these patterns.", "contents": "Interlimb coordination during stepping in the cat: an electromyographic analysis. 1. Simultaneous electromyographic (EMG) records were obtained from a single-joint extensor muscle of each of the four limbs of intact cats during repeated overground stepping trials. 2. In each limb, the temporal spacing of step cycles was determined by measurements of the intervals between consecutive terminations of EMG activity, since this occurs in a consistent relationship to the removal of the limb from the ground. By measuring the latencies between step cycles so determined, the temporal spacing of step cycles between limbs was determined. Each latency was expressed as a function of step duration or as a phase interval. 3. Analysis of the cooordination of step cycles of both homologous limb pairs (the forelimbs and hindlimbs), both homolateral limb pairs (the fore- and hindlimb on the right and left sides), and both sets of diagonal limbs suggest that the step cycles of the four limbs are coordinated according to a few frequently occurring patterns. However, the representation of a large number of phase intervals between these preferred patterns indicates a substantial amount of variability in interlimb coupling. 4. Analysis of the interaction of different interlimb-coupling patterns indicates that during alternate coordination of hindlimbs, coupling of the other limbs is fairly predictable. The step cycles of the forelimbs and hindlimbs are spaced according to a trotting form of coupling. During in-phase coordination of hindlimbs, the patterns of coordination of the other limbs are more diffuse. Forelimbs step cycles are coupled via a number of different modes, as are those of the forelimbs and hindlimbs. 5. It is concluded that the step cycles of different limbs are coordinated, but the association of observed patterns of coordination with any known neural pathways or the interaction of neural pathways should be approached with caution. The variability about the frequently occurring patterns is interpreted as an expression of the faculatative capabilities of the neural mechanisms controlling locomotion. Thus, these data favor a model of interlimb control during stepping, which recognizes preferred patterns of coordination and the variability about these patterns.", "PMID": 430112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_277", "title": "Phrenic motoneurons in the cat: subpopulations and nature of respiratory drive potentials.", "content": "1. Intracellular recordings were made from 78 phrenic motoneurons (PM) in anesthetized, paralyzed, artificially ventilated cats that were slightly hypercapnic. 2. Three subpopulations of PM (types A, B, and A/B) were identified on the basis of their membrane potential trajectories during expiration (E). Type A cells exhibited wholly linear trajectories. These were rapidly hyperpolarized at the onset of E followed by a slow ramp of increasing hyperpolarization observed in 51 of 59 type A cells. Types B (13 cells) and A/B (6 cells) had nonlinear trajectories in E. Type B cells approached their end-expiratory potential levels more slowly. 3. Measurements of axonal conduction velocity, expiratory phase input resistance, initial depolarization rate, and initial spike onset during inspiration revealed that type B cells had significantly slower axonal conduction velocities, higher input resistances, greater initial depolarization rates, and earlier initial spike onsets than type A cells. The properties of type A/B were intermediate between the other cell types. These results support the hypothesis that the PM pool is not homogeneous. 4. Active E-phase inhibition of all types of PM was directly demonstrated by reversal of the increasing hyperpolarizing wave to a depolarizing wave with hyperpolarizing current injection using a bridge circuit. Thus hyperpolarization of PM during E is not merely due to a central disfacilitation. 5. During hyperpolarizing current injection the inspiratory phase membrane potential trajectory of all PM became a ramp depolarization similar to that seen during control conditions in type A cells. These results support the conclusion that all cells within the PM pool are receiving a similar central excitatory synaptic input during inspiration. The rapid initial depolarization of type B and their concomitant early spike onset is a consequence in part of a rebound excitation from their expiratory phase inhibition as well as a higher input resistance, probably due to a smaller cell size. 6. Expiratory related neural activity was recorded within the phrenic motor nucleus. It is suggested that these expiratory related neural elements, based on the temporal pattern of their activity, may be responsible for the active inhibition of PM.", "contents": "Phrenic motoneurons in the cat: subpopulations and nature of respiratory drive potentials. 1. Intracellular recordings were made from 78 phrenic motoneurons (PM) in anesthetized, paralyzed, artificially ventilated cats that were slightly hypercapnic. 2. Three subpopulations of PM (types A, B, and A/B) were identified on the basis of their membrane potential trajectories during expiration (E). Type A cells exhibited wholly linear trajectories. These were rapidly hyperpolarized at the onset of E followed by a slow ramp of increasing hyperpolarization observed in 51 of 59 type A cells. Types B (13 cells) and A/B (6 cells) had nonlinear trajectories in E. Type B cells approached their end-expiratory potential levels more slowly. 3. Measurements of axonal conduction velocity, expiratory phase input resistance, initial depolarization rate, and initial spike onset during inspiration revealed that type B cells had significantly slower axonal conduction velocities, higher input resistances, greater initial depolarization rates, and earlier initial spike onsets than type A cells. The properties of type A/B were intermediate between the other cell types. These results support the hypothesis that the PM pool is not homogeneous. 4. Active E-phase inhibition of all types of PM was directly demonstrated by reversal of the increasing hyperpolarizing wave to a depolarizing wave with hyperpolarizing current injection using a bridge circuit. Thus hyperpolarization of PM during E is not merely due to a central disfacilitation. 5. During hyperpolarizing current injection the inspiratory phase membrane potential trajectory of all PM became a ramp depolarization similar to that seen during control conditions in type A cells. These results support the conclusion that all cells within the PM pool are receiving a similar central excitatory synaptic input during inspiration. The rapid initial depolarization of type B and their concomitant early spike onset is a consequence in part of a rebound excitation from their expiratory phase inhibition as well as a higher input resistance, probably due to a smaller cell size. 6. Expiratory related neural activity was recorded within the phrenic motor nucleus. It is suggested that these expiratory related neural elements, based on the temporal pattern of their activity, may be responsible for the active inhibition of PM.", "PMID": 430115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_278", "title": "Response to sudden torques about ankle in man: myotatic reflex.", "content": "1. Sudden dorsiflexions and plantarflexions of the foot were imposed on normal human subjects under various states of voluntary activity. 2. Under conditions of constant muscle contraction, the myotatic reflex in soleus and lateral gastrocnemius muscles is linearly and highly correlated with the rate of muscle stretch. The slope of this curve characterizes part of the reflex arc \"gain.\" 3. The gain is linearly proportional to the level of tonic voluntary activation. 4. The gain is reduced by tonic contraction of antagonists. 5. The above statements can be summarized by the following equation (formula: see text), where d theta/dt is the rate of joint rotation. Ts and Tat are measures of voluntary contraction (tension) of all the extensor and flexor muscles acting at the ankle. The term S represents the level of preexisting spinal excitability that can be altered by prior instruction to the subject. 6. A phasic voluntary contraction of the soleus muscle, which leads to muscle shortening, will alter the reflex gain. The gain initially increases with increasing rates of shortening, but at higher rates the gain is reduced. This is in contradiction to the observation for tonic activation as stated above and may be due to an inability of the coactivated fusimotor system to produce sufficiently rapid cocontraction of the spindle fibers. 7. During lengthening of a muscle caused by voluntary contraction of its antagonists, the myotatic reflex gain is reduced. 8. The above facts are interpreted to imply that a functional role for the myotatic reflex in the leg extensors is limited to conditions of postural maintenance or slow, precise movement. During rapid movement, the myotatic reflex is ineffective and load-compensating reactions are mediated by longer latency loops. 9. The duration of the myotatic reflex EMG is from 10 to 40 ms, too brief to be a simple response to a velocity-sensing receptor organ. Either the response is in large measure due to the initial burst of spindle activity that occurs at the start of a ramp stretch, or motoneuron pool dynamics act as a high-pass filter on afferent inputs. 10. In the anterior tibial muscle, the relationships between stretch velocity and reflex amplitude and tonic voluntary contraction and reflex gain are qualitatively similar to those found in the ankle extensors.", "contents": "Response to sudden torques about ankle in man: myotatic reflex. 1. Sudden dorsiflexions and plantarflexions of the foot were imposed on normal human subjects under various states of voluntary activity. 2. Under conditions of constant muscle contraction, the myotatic reflex in soleus and lateral gastrocnemius muscles is linearly and highly correlated with the rate of muscle stretch. The slope of this curve characterizes part of the reflex arc \"gain.\" 3. The gain is linearly proportional to the level of tonic voluntary activation. 4. The gain is reduced by tonic contraction of antagonists. 5. The above statements can be summarized by the following equation (formula: see text), where d theta/dt is the rate of joint rotation. Ts and Tat are measures of voluntary contraction (tension) of all the extensor and flexor muscles acting at the ankle. The term S represents the level of preexisting spinal excitability that can be altered by prior instruction to the subject. 6. A phasic voluntary contraction of the soleus muscle, which leads to muscle shortening, will alter the reflex gain. The gain initially increases with increasing rates of shortening, but at higher rates the gain is reduced. This is in contradiction to the observation for tonic activation as stated above and may be due to an inability of the coactivated fusimotor system to produce sufficiently rapid cocontraction of the spindle fibers. 7. During lengthening of a muscle caused by voluntary contraction of its antagonists, the myotatic reflex gain is reduced. 8. The above facts are interpreted to imply that a functional role for the myotatic reflex in the leg extensors is limited to conditions of postural maintenance or slow, precise movement. During rapid movement, the myotatic reflex is ineffective and load-compensating reactions are mediated by longer latency loops. 9. The duration of the myotatic reflex EMG is from 10 to 40 ms, too brief to be a simple response to a velocity-sensing receptor organ. Either the response is in large measure due to the initial burst of spindle activity that occurs at the start of a ramp stretch, or motoneuron pool dynamics act as a high-pass filter on afferent inputs. 10. In the anterior tibial muscle, the relationships between stretch velocity and reflex amplitude and tonic voluntary contraction and reflex gain are qualitatively similar to those found in the ankle extensors.", "PMID": 430116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_279", "title": "Slowly adapting receptors in cat hip joint.", "content": "1. The activity of slowly adapting joint receptors was recorded from fibers of the posterior articular nerve of the hip in deeply anesthetized cats. The static stimulus was any position of the femur maintained at least 2 min after passive displacement. Most of the fibers are active in all the positions where the femur may be placed. Modulation in the discharge frequency occurs in any axis of displacement, and higher activity is recorded at extreme positions. The maximal discharge may be reached in several positions of the femur far away from one another. 2. Adaptation to static stimuli occurs in all the receptors. Joint receptors fire at very regular, steady rates; the mean coefficient of variation was 0.079. 3. In most of the receptors, when the femur is displaced along a single axis, the frequency of discharge varies as a monotonic function of joint position. This relationship could be described either by linear and logarithmic or by linear and power functions, according to the criteria adopted to indicate the intensity of the stimulus. 4. Repetition of identical static stimuli results in different responses. 5. The static properties of the receptors are not modified by the section of periarticular muscles. 6. Hip joint receptors are able to code hip joint position.", "contents": "Slowly adapting receptors in cat hip joint. 1. The activity of slowly adapting joint receptors was recorded from fibers of the posterior articular nerve of the hip in deeply anesthetized cats. The static stimulus was any position of the femur maintained at least 2 min after passive displacement. Most of the fibers are active in all the positions where the femur may be placed. Modulation in the discharge frequency occurs in any axis of displacement, and higher activity is recorded at extreme positions. The maximal discharge may be reached in several positions of the femur far away from one another. 2. Adaptation to static stimuli occurs in all the receptors. Joint receptors fire at very regular, steady rates; the mean coefficient of variation was 0.079. 3. In most of the receptors, when the femur is displaced along a single axis, the frequency of discharge varies as a monotonic function of joint position. This relationship could be described either by linear and logarithmic or by linear and power functions, according to the criteria adopted to indicate the intensity of the stimulus. 4. Repetition of identical static stimuli results in different responses. 5. The static properties of the receptors are not modified by the section of periarticular muscles. 6. Hip joint receptors are able to code hip joint position.", "PMID": 430118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_280", "title": "Anomalous inward rectification in hippocampal neurons.", "content": "1. Anomalous rectification occurred in 54 of 56 hippocampal CA1 neurons studied in vitro. This phenomenon is characterized by a progressive increase in input resistance with membrane depolarization. An average increase in membrane resistance of 45% occurred over a 15-mV region of membrane potential immediately subthreshold to cellular firing. 2. Both Mn2+, a Ca+ antagonist, and tetrodotoxin (TTX), a neurotoxin that blocks regenerative Na+ currents, eliminated anomalous rectification. Ba2+, which can both contribute to intracellular cation influx as well as reduce K+ conductance, increased the magnitude of anomalous rectification. The observations are indirect evidence indicating that a Ca2+-Na+ current may produce the inward-going rectification. 3. Enhancement of anomalous rectification by Ba2+ was associated with the onset of membrane oscillations and spontaneous bursts of repetitive discharges. The magnitude of anomalous rectification may be one factor that predisposes some cortical neurons to bursting behavior.", "contents": "Anomalous inward rectification in hippocampal neurons. 1. Anomalous rectification occurred in 54 of 56 hippocampal CA1 neurons studied in vitro. This phenomenon is characterized by a progressive increase in input resistance with membrane depolarization. An average increase in membrane resistance of 45% occurred over a 15-mV region of membrane potential immediately subthreshold to cellular firing. 2. Both Mn2+, a Ca+ antagonist, and tetrodotoxin (TTX), a neurotoxin that blocks regenerative Na+ currents, eliminated anomalous rectification. Ba2+, which can both contribute to intracellular cation influx as well as reduce K+ conductance, increased the magnitude of anomalous rectification. The observations are indirect evidence indicating that a Ca2+-Na+ current may produce the inward-going rectification. 3. Enhancement of anomalous rectification by Ba2+ was associated with the onset of membrane oscillations and spontaneous bursts of repetitive discharges. The magnitude of anomalous rectification may be one factor that predisposes some cortical neurons to bursting behavior.", "PMID": 430121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_281", "title": "Treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulas by cavernous sinus occlusion.", "content": "The author reports the occlusion of 33 carotid-cavernous fistulas in 31 patients using thrombogenic techniques. In one patient the carotid artery had been occluded previously, in one it was occluded deliberately, and with 31 fistulas it was preserved. There was no mortality and virtually no morbidity.", "contents": "Treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulas by cavernous sinus occlusion. The author reports the occlusion of 33 carotid-cavernous fistulas in 31 patients using thrombogenic techniques. In one patient the carotid artery had been occluded previously, in one it was occluded deliberately, and with 31 fistulas it was preserved. There was no mortality and virtually no morbidity.", "PMID": 430123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_282", "title": "Intraoperative evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics using directional Doppler technique. Part 1: Arteriovenous malformations.", "content": "The use of a pulsed echo Doppler technique during surgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformation is described. The equipment and the methods employed are presented. The main advantages are easy determination of flow direction and pattern of the vasculature involved, allowing a precise discrimination between inflow and outflow channels. Deep-seated malformations, not visible at the brain surface, can be located with the Doppler technique. The ultrasound probe was placed on the brain surface with a slight pressure on the intact pia mater. The precise direction and depth of the malformation could be determined in relation to the recording site. This facilitated the planning of cortical incisions, identification of vessels involved, and the vascular procedure to be employed.", "contents": "Intraoperative evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics using directional Doppler technique. Part 1: Arteriovenous malformations. The use of a pulsed echo Doppler technique during surgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformation is described. The equipment and the methods employed are presented. The main advantages are easy determination of flow direction and pattern of the vasculature involved, allowing a precise discrimination between inflow and outflow channels. Deep-seated malformations, not visible at the brain surface, can be located with the Doppler technique. The ultrasound probe was placed on the brain surface with a slight pressure on the intact pia mater. The precise direction and depth of the malformation could be determined in relation to the recording site. This facilitated the planning of cortical incisions, identification of vessels involved, and the vascular procedure to be employed.", "PMID": 430124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_283", "title": "An analysis of follow-up results of 1000 intracranial saccular aneurysms with definitive surgical treatment.", "content": "The authors report a follow-up review of 1000 cases of intracranial definitive surgery for saccular aneurysms. The prognosis for such surgical cases is discussed. Postoperative results at least 6 months after discharge from the hospital were analyzed in 876 (93.3%) of the 939 surviving patients. The longest follow-up period was 14 years and 5 months, with an average of 3 years and 7 months. At the time of discharge, there were 543 excellent results, 186 good, 117 fair, 93 poor, and 61 deaths. The chief findings were as follows: 1) Most of the patients determined as \"excellent\" or \"good\" at discharge were able to return to normal life; most of the deaths or instances of worsened condition found in the follow-up study were due to new lesions. 2) Fully 62% of the cases determined as \"fair\" at discharge were found in an improved state at the follow-up study, having returned to normal life. 3) Only 19% of cases determined as \"poor\" at discharge had improved to the point where a return to normal life was possible, the majority having died or remaining in poor condition.", "contents": "An analysis of follow-up results of 1000 intracranial saccular aneurysms with definitive surgical treatment. The authors report a follow-up review of 1000 cases of intracranial definitive surgery for saccular aneurysms. The prognosis for such surgical cases is discussed. Postoperative results at least 6 months after discharge from the hospital were analyzed in 876 (93.3%) of the 939 surviving patients. The longest follow-up period was 14 years and 5 months, with an average of 3 years and 7 months. At the time of discharge, there were 543 excellent results, 186 good, 117 fair, 93 poor, and 61 deaths. The chief findings were as follows: 1) Most of the patients determined as \"excellent\" or \"good\" at discharge were able to return to normal life; most of the deaths or instances of worsened condition found in the follow-up study were due to new lesions. 2) Fully 62% of the cases determined as \"fair\" at discharge were found in an improved state at the follow-up study, having returned to normal life. 3) Only 19% of cases determined as \"poor\" at discharge had improved to the point where a return to normal life was possible, the majority having died or remaining in poor condition.", "PMID": 430125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_284", "title": "Individual variability in cortical localization of language.", "content": "Individual variability in the localization of language, as measured by object-naming, was assessed for left lateral peri-Sylvian cortex with a multi-sample technique of stimulation mapping at a constant current. This study was performed during craniotomy under local anesthesia in 10 patients with medically intractable epilepsy and the usual pattern of left brain dominance for language. A high degree of variability in the exact location of naming was present. Only one area, a small portion of the third frontal convolution immediately in front of the motor strip, showed naming changes in all patients in whom it was sampled. This area is considerably smaller than the classical Broca's area. Elsewhere in language cortex, including all parts of the posterior language area, there was considerable individual variability. Because of this, the classical model of language localization is an inaccurate basis for establishing the risk of aphasia in surgical therapy of dominant hemisphere peri-Sylvian lesions in this and related patient populations. Rather, that risk should be assessed from the individual localization of language, established by the multisample technique of stimulation mapping.", "contents": "Individual variability in cortical localization of language. Individual variability in the localization of language, as measured by object-naming, was assessed for left lateral peri-Sylvian cortex with a multi-sample technique of stimulation mapping at a constant current. This study was performed during craniotomy under local anesthesia in 10 patients with medically intractable epilepsy and the usual pattern of left brain dominance for language. A high degree of variability in the exact location of naming was present. Only one area, a small portion of the third frontal convolution immediately in front of the motor strip, showed naming changes in all patients in whom it was sampled. This area is considerably smaller than the classical Broca's area. Elsewhere in language cortex, including all parts of the posterior language area, there was considerable individual variability. Because of this, the classical model of language localization is an inaccurate basis for establishing the risk of aphasia in surgical therapy of dominant hemisphere peri-Sylvian lesions in this and related patient populations. Rather, that risk should be assessed from the individual localization of language, established by the multisample technique of stimulation mapping.", "PMID": 430127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_285", "title": "Total removal of acoustic neurinomas.", "content": "The authors analyze the results of total removal of acoustic neurinomas in 120 patients operated on between January, 1967, and January, 1976. The facial nerve was preserved after surgery in 65 patients (54.2%). The use of microsurgical techniques in the last 3 years of study permitted preservation of the seventh nerve in 26 of 35 operated patients (74.3%). Of 103 patients examined postoperatively, 96 retained their full or partial capacity for work (93.2%). Ten patients (8.3%) died after surgery. In the last 3 years, 35 patients were operated on without a single death.", "contents": "Total removal of acoustic neurinomas. The authors analyze the results of total removal of acoustic neurinomas in 120 patients operated on between January, 1967, and January, 1976. The facial nerve was preserved after surgery in 65 patients (54.2%). The use of microsurgical techniques in the last 3 years of study permitted preservation of the seventh nerve in 26 of 35 operated patients (74.3%). Of 103 patients examined postoperatively, 96 retained their full or partial capacity for work (93.2%). Ten patients (8.3%) died after surgery. In the last 3 years, 35 patients were operated on without a single death.", "PMID": 430128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_286", "title": "Scoliosis and hydrocephalus in myelocele patients. The effects of ventricular shunting.", "content": "Developmental scoliosis is a common cause of increasing disability and deformity in long-term myelocele survivors, and is believed to result from a paralytic collapsing spine. The possible etiological role of compensated hydrocephalus and hydromyelia was assessed by determining the effect of ventricular shunting on 11 myelocele patients with developmental scoliosis. After successful shunting, one patient with a 47 degrees curve continued to deteriorate. Three cases with curves greater than 60 degrees were stabilized for short periods, but eventually required spinal fusion. Seven cases with curves less than 55 degrees were improved from a mean scoliosis of 29 degrees to 13 degrees during a 20-month follow-up period. Several patients had pre-existing shunts that were found to be non-functional on shuntogram. These findings suggest that the spinal complications of hydrocephalus may be more common than previously recognized in myelocele patients and that advanced developmental scoliosis may be avoided by early recognition and ventricular shunting.", "contents": "Scoliosis and hydrocephalus in myelocele patients. The effects of ventricular shunting. Developmental scoliosis is a common cause of increasing disability and deformity in long-term myelocele survivors, and is believed to result from a paralytic collapsing spine. The possible etiological role of compensated hydrocephalus and hydromyelia was assessed by determining the effect of ventricular shunting on 11 myelocele patients with developmental scoliosis. After successful shunting, one patient with a 47 degrees curve continued to deteriorate. Three cases with curves greater than 60 degrees were stabilized for short periods, but eventually required spinal fusion. Seven cases with curves less than 55 degrees were improved from a mean scoliosis of 29 degrees to 13 degrees during a 20-month follow-up period. Several patients had pre-existing shunts that were found to be non-functional on shuntogram. These findings suggest that the spinal complications of hydrocephalus may be more common than previously recognized in myelocele patients and that advanced developmental scoliosis may be avoided by early recognition and ventricular shunting.", "PMID": 430129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_287", "title": "Long-term results after ventriculoatrial and ventriculoperitoneal shunting for infantile hydrocephalus.", "content": "This series of 228 patients with infantile non-neoplastic hydrocephalus who received either a ventriculoatrial (VA) or a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt before 2 years of age was followed for an average of 7 years, and the results with the two types of shunt were compared. Mortality and infection rates were similar for both groups of patients, but children with VP shunts required significantly fewer revisions and had a much greater likelihood of not having any revisions during the follow-up period. Late complications occurred more frequently with VA shunts and were more serious. It is concluded that VP shunts offer significant advantages over VA systems in this population.", "contents": "Long-term results after ventriculoatrial and ventriculoperitoneal shunting for infantile hydrocephalus. This series of 228 patients with infantile non-neoplastic hydrocephalus who received either a ventriculoatrial (VA) or a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt before 2 years of age was followed for an average of 7 years, and the results with the two types of shunt were compared. Mortality and infection rates were similar for both groups of patients, but children with VP shunts required significantly fewer revisions and had a much greater likelihood of not having any revisions during the follow-up period. Late complications occurred more frequently with VA shunts and were more serious. It is concluded that VP shunts offer significant advantages over VA systems in this population.", "PMID": 430130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_288", "title": "Craniofacial growth following experimental craniosynostosis and craniectomy in rabbits.", "content": "Premature fusion of the coronal suture was produced in 9-day-old rabbits by immobilization of the suture area bilaterally with methyl-cyanoacrylate adhesive. The effects of suture fusion and its surgical release on suture growth and on skull morphology were evaluated by radiographic cephalometry. Immobilization resulted in significant changes in the angular dimensions in the vault toward an anteroposterior shortening. No permanent deformity was observed in the angular relationship between the cranial base and the facial skeleton. Craniectomy at 30 days, when a skull deformity had been established, resulted in rapid separation of the bones at the suture site which returned the deformed skull to a normal configuration by 90 days of age. Surgical removal of a normal suture in a control group also resulted in accelerated separation of the bones at the excised suture site, but it was less than after removal of an immobilized suture. The experimental data indicate that premature fusion of rapidly growing sutures results in consistent skull deformity. Early release of the fusion, when this is the primary abnormality, will result in spontaneous correction of the deformity.", "contents": "Craniofacial growth following experimental craniosynostosis and craniectomy in rabbits. Premature fusion of the coronal suture was produced in 9-day-old rabbits by immobilization of the suture area bilaterally with methyl-cyanoacrylate adhesive. The effects of suture fusion and its surgical release on suture growth and on skull morphology were evaluated by radiographic cephalometry. Immobilization resulted in significant changes in the angular dimensions in the vault toward an anteroposterior shortening. No permanent deformity was observed in the angular relationship between the cranial base and the facial skeleton. Craniectomy at 30 days, when a skull deformity had been established, resulted in rapid separation of the bones at the suture site which returned the deformed skull to a normal configuration by 90 days of age. Surgical removal of a normal suture in a control group also resulted in accelerated separation of the bones at the excised suture site, but it was less than after removal of an immobilized suture. The experimental data indicate that premature fusion of rapidly growing sutures results in consistent skull deformity. Early release of the fusion, when this is the primary abnormality, will result in spontaneous correction of the deformity.", "PMID": 430131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_289", "title": "Loss of autoregulation and posttraumatic ischemia following experimental spinal cord trauma.", "content": "Blood flow in the dorsolateral funiculus of the cat thoracic spinal cord was studied after severe experimental cord injury, using a modification of the hydrogen clearance technique. Autoregulation was intact during the initial 60 to 90 minutes after cord injury, but was then lost coincident with the onset of ischemia. The data suggest that the ischemic response to spinal cord injury is mediated both by the loss of autoregulation and by relative vasoconstriction of the resistance vessels. Therapeutic intervention aimed at maintaining perfusion during the early posttraumatic period may prove of value in reversing or limiting some elements of dysfunction due to the secondary injury of ischemia.", "contents": "Loss of autoregulation and posttraumatic ischemia following experimental spinal cord trauma. Blood flow in the dorsolateral funiculus of the cat thoracic spinal cord was studied after severe experimental cord injury, using a modification of the hydrogen clearance technique. Autoregulation was intact during the initial 60 to 90 minutes after cord injury, but was then lost coincident with the onset of ischemia. The data suggest that the ischemic response to spinal cord injury is mediated both by the loss of autoregulation and by relative vasoconstriction of the resistance vessels. Therapeutic intervention aimed at maintaining perfusion during the early posttraumatic period may prove of value in reversing or limiting some elements of dysfunction due to the secondary injury of ischemia.", "PMID": 430132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_290", "title": "Alteration of posttraumatic ischemia in experimental spinal cord trauma by a central nervous system depressant.", "content": "Blood flow after severe experimental injury to the thoracic spinal cord was studied in cats, using a modification of the hydrogen clearance technique. Gamma hydroxybutyrate, a central nervous system depressant, was shown to markedly alter the ischemic response to injury if given during the early posttraumatic period. Other vasoactive drugs investigated had no effect on posttraumatic ischemia. Therapeutic intervention during the early posttraumatic period aimed at increasing blood flow while decreasing the metabolic requirements of the injured cord may prove of value in reversing or limiting some elements of long-tract dysfunction due to the secondary ischemic insult.", "contents": "Alteration of posttraumatic ischemia in experimental spinal cord trauma by a central nervous system depressant. Blood flow after severe experimental injury to the thoracic spinal cord was studied in cats, using a modification of the hydrogen clearance technique. Gamma hydroxybutyrate, a central nervous system depressant, was shown to markedly alter the ischemic response to injury if given during the early posttraumatic period. Other vasoactive drugs investigated had no effect on posttraumatic ischemia. Therapeutic intervention during the early posttraumatic period aimed at increasing blood flow while decreasing the metabolic requirements of the injured cord may prove of value in reversing or limiting some elements of long-tract dysfunction due to the secondary ischemic insult.", "PMID": 430133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_291", "title": "Early diagnosis of delayed posttraumatic intracerebral hematomas.", "content": "Nine cases of delayed posttraumatic intracerebral hematomas (DTICH) were found retrospectively among 656 patients with closed head injuries admitted to the Hennepin County Medical Center in a 12-month period. All cases had severe head injuries sustained with the head in motion. The interval from cranial injury to diagnosis of DTICH by computerized tomography (CT) varied from 8 hours to 13 days. Eight patients were comatose on admission, three had focal seizures, and three had focal findings. The diagnosis was made on repeat CT scans obtained because of the development of focal findings in four cases, lack of improvement in four cases, and general neurological deterioration in one case. Four patients had initially negative CT scans. Four demonstrated only extracerebral hematomas on initial CT scan. One patient showed intracerebral hematoma on the initial scan followed by new hematomas on repeat study. The cases presented are discussed in light of pertinent literature.", "contents": "Early diagnosis of delayed posttraumatic intracerebral hematomas. Nine cases of delayed posttraumatic intracerebral hematomas (DTICH) were found retrospectively among 656 patients with closed head injuries admitted to the Hennepin County Medical Center in a 12-month period. All cases had severe head injuries sustained with the head in motion. The interval from cranial injury to diagnosis of DTICH by computerized tomography (CT) varied from 8 hours to 13 days. Eight patients were comatose on admission, three had focal seizures, and three had focal findings. The diagnosis was made on repeat CT scans obtained because of the development of focal findings in four cases, lack of improvement in four cases, and general neurological deterioration in one case. Four patients had initially negative CT scans. Four demonstrated only extracerebral hematomas on initial CT scan. One patient showed intracerebral hematoma on the initial scan followed by new hematomas on repeat study. The cases presented are discussed in light of pertinent literature.", "PMID": 430134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_292", "title": "Pathology of an arachnoid cyst. Case report.", "content": "Accidental death brought to autopsy a 19-year-old girl with asymptomatic arachnoid cyst which had expanded from the region of the interpeduncular cistern so as to replace the third ventricle and extend into both alteral ventricles. Associated with this expansion was a significant degree of hydrocephalus, compression of the walls of the lateral ventricle, and obliteration of the normal structures of the floor of the third ventricle. The histological structure of the cyst wall and its relationship to the normal arachnoid are defined and found to consist of a reduplication of the normal arachnoid membrane resulting in a space within the arachnoid tissue. It is suspected but not proven that the cyst was congenital, resulting from an abnormality in development. Some suggestions are offered regarding the mechanism for its enlargement.", "contents": "Pathology of an arachnoid cyst. Case report. Accidental death brought to autopsy a 19-year-old girl with asymptomatic arachnoid cyst which had expanded from the region of the interpeduncular cistern so as to replace the third ventricle and extend into both alteral ventricles. Associated with this expansion was a significant degree of hydrocephalus, compression of the walls of the lateral ventricle, and obliteration of the normal structures of the floor of the third ventricle. The histological structure of the cyst wall and its relationship to the normal arachnoid are defined and found to consist of a reduplication of the normal arachnoid membrane resulting in a space within the arachnoid tissue. It is suspected but not proven that the cyst was congenital, resulting from an abnormality in development. Some suggestions are offered regarding the mechanism for its enlargement.", "PMID": 430135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_293", "title": "Vasospasm following transcranial removal of large pituitary adenomas. Report of three cases.", "content": "The authors report three cases of cerebral vascular spasm following transfrontal removal of large pituitary neoplasms. One patient awakened from surgery hemiparetic, but has since recovered. A second patient developed hemiparesis with confusion on the fifth postoperative day and eventually died. The third patient developed hemiplegia on the tenth postoperative day, but recovered completely. Vascular spasm was documented angiographically in all three cases. Possible mechanisms underlying this unusual complication are discussed.", "contents": "Vasospasm following transcranial removal of large pituitary adenomas. Report of three cases. The authors report three cases of cerebral vascular spasm following transfrontal removal of large pituitary neoplasms. One patient awakened from surgery hemiparetic, but has since recovered. A second patient developed hemiparesis with confusion on the fifth postoperative day and eventually died. The third patient developed hemiplegia on the tenth postoperative day, but recovered completely. Vascular spasm was documented angiographically in all three cases. Possible mechanisms underlying this unusual complication are discussed.", "PMID": 430136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_294", "title": "Meningioma of the anterior part of the third ventricle. Case report.", "content": "The authors present a case of meningioma located in the anterior part of the third ventricle. The mass was successfully removed through a right-sided transventricular approach after stereotaxic biopsy. A review of the relevant literature is included.", "contents": "Meningioma of the anterior part of the third ventricle. Case report. The authors present a case of meningioma located in the anterior part of the third ventricle. The mass was successfully removed through a right-sided transventricular approach after stereotaxic biopsy. A review of the relevant literature is included.", "PMID": 430137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_295", "title": "Extradural spinal involvement by gout. Case report.", "content": "A case of extradural gouty tophus in the lumbar region in a teen-age girl is presented as an addition to the differential diagnosis of erosive lesions of the spinal canal.", "contents": "Extradural spinal involvement by gout. Case report. A case of extradural gouty tophus in the lumbar region in a teen-age girl is presented as an addition to the differential diagnosis of erosive lesions of the spinal canal.", "PMID": 430138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_296", "title": "Subependymal giant-cell astrocytoma. Case report with ultrastructural study.", "content": "A 13-year-old boy presented with an obstructive left lateral intraventricular mass. Pathological examination revealed a subependymal giant-cell astrocytoma. Further clinical investigation confirmed the diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis. Ultrastructural examination confirmed previously reported features of this tumor. Tumor cells containing large dense granulated bodies and dense-core vesicles, not previously described in this tumor, were identified.", "contents": "Subependymal giant-cell astrocytoma. Case report with ultrastructural study. A 13-year-old boy presented with an obstructive left lateral intraventricular mass. Pathological examination revealed a subependymal giant-cell astrocytoma. Further clinical investigation confirmed the diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis. Ultrastructural examination confirmed previously reported features of this tumor. Tumor cells containing large dense granulated bodies and dense-core vesicles, not previously described in this tumor, were identified.", "PMID": 430139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_297", "title": "Primary intracranial endodermal sinus tumor. Case report.", "content": "Endodermal sinus tumor (yolk sac carcinoma), a germinal neoplasm, is rarely primary in the cranial cavity. The authors add a third case with the tumor located in the anterior third ventricular (suprasellar) region to the literature. Seventeen previously reported intracranial cases, mostly in the pineal region, are briefly reviewed.", "contents": "Primary intracranial endodermal sinus tumor. Case report. Endodermal sinus tumor (yolk sac carcinoma), a germinal neoplasm, is rarely primary in the cranial cavity. The authors add a third case with the tumor located in the anterior third ventricular (suprasellar) region to the literature. Seventeen previously reported intracranial cases, mostly in the pineal region, are briefly reviewed.", "PMID": 430140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_298", "title": "Bilateral trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma. Case report.", "content": "An autopsied case of bilateral trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma is reported. The right-sided inferior alveolar tumor was treated surgically and subsequently irradiated. There was no local recurrence during the ensuing 4 years. Two years after excision of that tumor, a left-sided trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma was subtotally removed. Two years later this same tumor was found to have extensively invaded the pons.", "contents": "Bilateral trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma. Case report. An autopsied case of bilateral trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma is reported. The right-sided inferior alveolar tumor was treated surgically and subsequently irradiated. There was no local recurrence during the ensuing 4 years. Two years after excision of that tumor, a left-sided trigeminal neurofibrosarcoma was subtotally removed. Two years later this same tumor was found to have extensively invaded the pons.", "PMID": 430141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_299", "title": "Arterial cross compression of the trigeminal nerve at the pons in trigeminal neuralgia. Case report with autopsy findings.", "content": "The autopsy findings in a patient with trigeminal neuralgia who died from unrelated causes are presented. Arterial cross compression of the appropriate trigeminal nerve at the pons was demonstrated. The relationship of arterial cross compression to trigeminal neuralgia is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Arterial cross compression of the trigeminal nerve at the pons in trigeminal neuralgia. Case report with autopsy findings. The autopsy findings in a patient with trigeminal neuralgia who died from unrelated causes are presented. Arterial cross compression of the appropriate trigeminal nerve at the pons was demonstrated. The relationship of arterial cross compression to trigeminal neuralgia is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 430142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_300", "title": "Subdural hematoma in an adult following a blast injury. Case report.", "content": "A case is reported of chronic subdural hematoma in a civilian who was injured when a pipe exploded while being cleaned by air blasting. The literature regarding the pathogenesis of blast injury is reviewed.", "contents": "Subdural hematoma in an adult following a blast injury. Case report. A case is reported of chronic subdural hematoma in a civilian who was injured when a pipe exploded while being cleaned by air blasting. The literature regarding the pathogenesis of blast injury is reviewed.", "PMID": 430143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_301", "title": "Fenestrated basilar artery with an associated saccular aneurysm. Case report.", "content": "A patient who presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage was found to have a saccular aneurysm arising from the proximal basilar artery. The aneurysm was bilobed, directed anteriorly and inferiorly, and associated with a proximal fenestrated segment of the basilar artery.", "contents": "Fenestrated basilar artery with an associated saccular aneurysm. Case report. A patient who presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage was found to have a saccular aneurysm arising from the proximal basilar artery. The aneurysm was bilobed, directed anteriorly and inferiorly, and associated with a proximal fenestrated segment of the basilar artery.", "PMID": 430144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_302", "title": "Factors influencing future progress in neurosurgery.", "content": "The ever-widening horizons in the neurosciences are noted by the author. Maintenance of the bridges between research and clinical practice will result in improved therapy. Research interest is expanding, and involvement by neurosurgeons and neurosurgical training programs is vital for future progress. Techniques are required to evaluate and assess new surgical procedures that evolve from research endeavors.", "contents": "Factors influencing future progress in neurosurgery. The ever-widening horizons in the neurosciences are noted by the author. Maintenance of the bridges between research and clinical practice will result in improved therapy. Research interest is expanding, and involvement by neurosurgeons and neurosurgical training programs is vital for future progress. Techniques are required to evaluate and assess new surgical procedures that evolve from research endeavors.", "PMID": 430148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_303", "title": "Superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery anastomosis. Intraoperative evaluation by fluorescein angiography and xenon-133 clearance.", "content": "Fluorescein angiography and xenon-133 (133Xe) clearance studies were performed during surgery on 15 patients who were undergoing superficial temporal artery (STA) to middle cerebral artery (MCA) anastomosis. Fourteen patients had occlusive disease of the internal carotid artery (ICA), and one patient had severe stenosis of the MCA. Before anastomosis, fluorescein angiography showed slow filling of the MCA branches through collateral channels. Focal areas of impaired microcirculatory filling and washout were seen in the territory of severely sclerotic cortical arteries. The findings of preanastomotic 133Xe clearance studies were variable and a uniform pattern of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) changes was not defined. In 55% of the patients, rCBF was reduced to 25 ml/100 gm/min or less at one or more detector sites. Fluorescein angiography provided an immediate assessment of anastomotic patency and clearly displayed the distribution of blood entering the epicerebral circulation through the STA. In 67% of patients, multiple MCA cortical branches filled with fluorescein, whereas in 33% filling was restricted to the receptor artery territory. An immediate, substantial (greater than or equal to 15 ml/100 gm/min) increase in rCBF was demonstrated in 73% of patients after anastomosis. The rCBF changes were consistently better in patients with donor and receptor arteries greater than 1 mm in diameter. Redistribution of collateral input acted to increase rCBF in areas distant from the anastomotic site. Some improvement in fluorescein circulation and rCBF also was seen in cortex supplied by sclerotic MCA branches.", "contents": "Superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery anastomosis. Intraoperative evaluation by fluorescein angiography and xenon-133 clearance. Fluorescein angiography and xenon-133 (133Xe) clearance studies were performed during surgery on 15 patients who were undergoing superficial temporal artery (STA) to middle cerebral artery (MCA) anastomosis. Fourteen patients had occlusive disease of the internal carotid artery (ICA), and one patient had severe stenosis of the MCA. Before anastomosis, fluorescein angiography showed slow filling of the MCA branches through collateral channels. Focal areas of impaired microcirculatory filling and washout were seen in the territory of severely sclerotic cortical arteries. The findings of preanastomotic 133Xe clearance studies were variable and a uniform pattern of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) changes was not defined. In 55% of the patients, rCBF was reduced to 25 ml/100 gm/min or less at one or more detector sites. Fluorescein angiography provided an immediate assessment of anastomotic patency and clearly displayed the distribution of blood entering the epicerebral circulation through the STA. In 67% of patients, multiple MCA cortical branches filled with fluorescein, whereas in 33% filling was restricted to the receptor artery territory. An immediate, substantial (greater than or equal to 15 ml/100 gm/min) increase in rCBF was demonstrated in 73% of patients after anastomosis. The rCBF changes were consistently better in patients with donor and receptor arteries greater than 1 mm in diameter. Redistribution of collateral input acted to increase rCBF in areas distant from the anastomotic site. Some improvement in fluorescein circulation and rCBF also was seen in cortex supplied by sclerotic MCA branches.", "PMID": 430149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_304", "title": "Intraoperative evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics using directional Doppler technique. Part 2: Saccular aneurysms.", "content": "The use of a pulsed echo Doppler technique during procedures for occlusion of intracranial aneurysms is described. Saccular aneurysms can be located with reference to probe position and depth setting. Tracings of intra-aneurysmal flow are presented, and the characteristic flow pattern is disucssed. Special emphasis has been placed on the parent artery flow, particularly the effect of lumen reduction on flow velocity. Results of flow velocity studies on the cognate (direct) and collateral flow in the middle cerebral artery and the proximal anterior cerebral artery are presented and discussed.", "contents": "Intraoperative evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics using directional Doppler technique. Part 2: Saccular aneurysms. The use of a pulsed echo Doppler technique during procedures for occlusion of intracranial aneurysms is described. Saccular aneurysms can be located with reference to probe position and depth setting. Tracings of intra-aneurysmal flow are presented, and the characteristic flow pattern is disucssed. Special emphasis has been placed on the parent artery flow, particularly the effect of lumen reduction on flow velocity. Results of flow velocity studies on the cognate (direct) and collateral flow in the middle cerebral artery and the proximal anterior cerebral artery are presented and discussed.", "PMID": 430150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_305", "title": "Regional cerebral blood flow in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms.", "content": "Eighty-five studies of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were performed on 49 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. The changes in rCBF were analyzed under various pathophysiological conditions, The degree of flow abnormalities correlated well with the clinical severity of neurological deficits. All of the patients with diffuse vasospasm of severe grade, to less than half of their control value, showed focal areas of decreased flow below 30 ml/100 gm/min, in addition to a reduction in mean CBF. The relief or disappearance of vasospasm in angiograms was followed by the increase of rCBF in the ischemic focus and mean CBF. Marked reduction in rCBF was found in patients with intracerebral hematoma and ventricular dilatation. Impaired CO2 response and autoregulation were found in patients with severe neurological deficits, a severe degree of vasospasm and marked depression of CBF. In this series direct operation was delayed in patients with impaired vascular reactivity as well as marked decrease of mean CBF below 30 ml/100 gm/min; good clinical results were obtained in thses patients.", "contents": "Regional cerebral blood flow in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Eighty-five studies of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were performed on 49 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. The changes in rCBF were analyzed under various pathophysiological conditions, The degree of flow abnormalities correlated well with the clinical severity of neurological deficits. All of the patients with diffuse vasospasm of severe grade, to less than half of their control value, showed focal areas of decreased flow below 30 ml/100 gm/min, in addition to a reduction in mean CBF. The relief or disappearance of vasospasm in angiograms was followed by the increase of rCBF in the ischemic focus and mean CBF. Marked reduction in rCBF was found in patients with intracerebral hematoma and ventricular dilatation. Impaired CO2 response and autoregulation were found in patients with severe neurological deficits, a severe degree of vasospasm and marked depression of CBF. In this series direct operation was delayed in patients with impaired vascular reactivity as well as marked decrease of mean CBF below 30 ml/100 gm/min; good clinical results were obtained in thses patients.", "PMID": 430152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_306", "title": "Monitoring of cortical excitability during induced hypotension in aneurysm operations.", "content": "The electrical excitability of the cortex was monitored during craniotomy in 10 patients with ruptured aneurysms, to test their ability to tolerate hypotensive anesthesia. Excitability was assessed by measuring the direct cortical response, a response evoked and recorded from the surface of the brain. Previous animal experiments had shown that this response can be used as an index of cerebral blood flow. In the 10 patients the response progressively declined as the blood pressure was lowered and increased when the pressure was restored. Observation of the direct cortical response during aneurysm operations is a practical method for evaluating the electrophysiological responsiveness of the cortex during hypotension, and the authors suggest that decreases in the amplitude of the response are related to decreased in local cerebral blood flow.", "contents": "Monitoring of cortical excitability during induced hypotension in aneurysm operations. The electrical excitability of the cortex was monitored during craniotomy in 10 patients with ruptured aneurysms, to test their ability to tolerate hypotensive anesthesia. Excitability was assessed by measuring the direct cortical response, a response evoked and recorded from the surface of the brain. Previous animal experiments had shown that this response can be used as an index of cerebral blood flow. In the 10 patients the response progressively declined as the blood pressure was lowered and increased when the pressure was restored. Observation of the direct cortical response during aneurysm operations is a practical method for evaluating the electrophysiological responsiveness of the cortex during hypotension, and the authors suggest that decreases in the amplitude of the response are related to decreased in local cerebral blood flow.", "PMID": 430153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_307", "title": "Halo immobilization of cervical spine fractures. Indications and results.", "content": "Thirty-three patients with a spectrum of cervical spine fractures or subluxations were treated with immobilization by a halo apparatus. All spines were assumed to be unstable because of the nature of the fracture or because of a subluxation noted on spine films. Treatment consisted of immobilization and fracture reduction followed by application of a halo plaster cast or molded halo plastic vest. Patient acceptance was high. Complications were few and minor. No patient experienced neurological deterioration during treatment. Reduction was well maintained during an average halo immobilization period of over 3 months. Use of the halo resulted in healing of bone and ligament and restoration of stability in 85% of the patients. Halo immobilization was efficacious in the treatment of odontoid and hangman's fractures as well as complex fractures involving multiple areas of a single vertebra. It was also used successfully as an adjunct to posterior cervical fusion. Although several patients with subluxations or angulation without bone injury were treated successfully, two of the four therapy failures occurred in this group of patients, and the halo must be used with caution in this clinical setting. Contraindications to the use of the halo include complete cervical spinal cord injury with anesthetic skin, tomographic and/or myelographic evidence of disc or bone within the spinal canal, and unsatisfactorily reduced subluxations. The halo has provided more effective and reliable immobilization than other orthoses. It is an acceptable alternative to cervical fusion for the achievement of stability in a wide variety of cervical spine fractures and dislocations avoiding both the short-term and perhaps long-term complications of spinal fusion.", "contents": "Halo immobilization of cervical spine fractures. Indications and results. Thirty-three patients with a spectrum of cervical spine fractures or subluxations were treated with immobilization by a halo apparatus. All spines were assumed to be unstable because of the nature of the fracture or because of a subluxation noted on spine films. Treatment consisted of immobilization and fracture reduction followed by application of a halo plaster cast or molded halo plastic vest. Patient acceptance was high. Complications were few and minor. No patient experienced neurological deterioration during treatment. Reduction was well maintained during an average halo immobilization period of over 3 months. Use of the halo resulted in healing of bone and ligament and restoration of stability in 85% of the patients. Halo immobilization was efficacious in the treatment of odontoid and hangman's fractures as well as complex fractures involving multiple areas of a single vertebra. It was also used successfully as an adjunct to posterior cervical fusion. Although several patients with subluxations or angulation without bone injury were treated successfully, two of the four therapy failures occurred in this group of patients, and the halo must be used with caution in this clinical setting. Contraindications to the use of the halo include complete cervical spinal cord injury with anesthetic skin, tomographic and/or myelographic evidence of disc or bone within the spinal canal, and unsatisfactorily reduced subluxations. The halo has provided more effective and reliable immobilization than other orthoses. It is an acceptable alternative to cervical fusion for the achievement of stability in a wide variety of cervical spine fractures and dislocations avoiding both the short-term and perhaps long-term complications of spinal fusion.", "PMID": 430154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_308", "title": "Neurological prognosis after traumatic quadriplegia. Three-year experience of California Regional Spinal Cord Injury Care System.", "content": "Between January, 1974, and December, 1976, 123 patients with traumatic quadriplegia were admitted to the California Regional Spinal Cord Injury Care System. The spinal cord injury resulted from gunshot wounds in five, from a stab wound in one, from neck injuries with no bone damage seen on x-ray studies in 10, and from fracture dislocations of the cervical spine in 107. One-year following-up information was available on 114 patients. Neurological impairment using the Frankel classification system was compared at 72 hours postinjury to the 1-year follow-up examination. Fifty of 62 patients with complete injury at 72 hours were unchanged at 1 year. Five of these 62 patients had developed motor useful function in the legs or became ambulatory by 1 year, but all had sustained serious head injuries at the time of their trauma making initial neurological assessment unreliable. Ten percent of all cases had combined head injury impairing consciousness. Among 103 cognitively intact patients, none with complete injury at 72 hours were walking at 1 year. Of patients with sensory incomplete functions at 72 hours postinjury, 47% were walking at 1 year; 87% of patients with motor incomplete function at 72 hours postinjury were walking at 1 year. Spinal surgery during the first 4 weeks postinjury did not improve neurological recovery. A method of analyzing neurological and functional outcomes of spinal cork injury is presented in order to more accurately evaluate the results of future treatment protocols for acute spinal injury.", "contents": "Neurological prognosis after traumatic quadriplegia. Three-year experience of California Regional Spinal Cord Injury Care System. Between January, 1974, and December, 1976, 123 patients with traumatic quadriplegia were admitted to the California Regional Spinal Cord Injury Care System. The spinal cord injury resulted from gunshot wounds in five, from a stab wound in one, from neck injuries with no bone damage seen on x-ray studies in 10, and from fracture dislocations of the cervical spine in 107. One-year following-up information was available on 114 patients. Neurological impairment using the Frankel classification system was compared at 72 hours postinjury to the 1-year follow-up examination. Fifty of 62 patients with complete injury at 72 hours were unchanged at 1 year. Five of these 62 patients had developed motor useful function in the legs or became ambulatory by 1 year, but all had sustained serious head injuries at the time of their trauma making initial neurological assessment unreliable. Ten percent of all cases had combined head injury impairing consciousness. Among 103 cognitively intact patients, none with complete injury at 72 hours were walking at 1 year. Of patients with sensory incomplete functions at 72 hours postinjury, 47% were walking at 1 year; 87% of patients with motor incomplete function at 72 hours postinjury were walking at 1 year. Spinal surgery during the first 4 weeks postinjury did not improve neurological recovery. A method of analyzing neurological and functional outcomes of spinal cork injury is presented in order to more accurately evaluate the results of future treatment protocols for acute spinal injury.", "PMID": 430155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_309", "title": "Craniopharyngiomas in childhood. A rational approach to treatment.", "content": "The authors review 60 children who presented with craniopharyngiomas. Patients were treated by either 1) cyst aspiration followed by deep x-ray therapy (DXT), 2) radical excision, 3) incomplete tumor excision, or 4) incomplete excision followed by DTX. Symptomatic clinical recurrence signified failure of treatment. Of the patients treated by cyst aspiration and DXT, 50% experienced recurrence (mean time after treatment, 4.4 years), while recurrences occurred in 23% undergoing radical excision (mean time, 2.4 years). Symptomatic recurrences occurred in 78% treated by incomplete removal only (mean time, 2.2 years). No recurrences have occurred in seven patients whose incomplete removal was followed by DTX. The authors conclude that radical excision is most likely to produce survival free of recurrence. When radical excision is not possible, DXT appears to provide an additional effect on preventing tumor regrowth. Characteristics of craniopharyngiomas favoring radical excision are also discussed.", "contents": "Craniopharyngiomas in childhood. A rational approach to treatment. The authors review 60 children who presented with craniopharyngiomas. Patients were treated by either 1) cyst aspiration followed by deep x-ray therapy (DXT), 2) radical excision, 3) incomplete tumor excision, or 4) incomplete excision followed by DTX. Symptomatic clinical recurrence signified failure of treatment. Of the patients treated by cyst aspiration and DXT, 50% experienced recurrence (mean time after treatment, 4.4 years), while recurrences occurred in 23% undergoing radical excision (mean time, 2.4 years). Symptomatic recurrences occurred in 78% treated by incomplete removal only (mean time, 2.2 years). No recurrences have occurred in seven patients whose incomplete removal was followed by DTX. The authors conclude that radical excision is most likely to produce survival free of recurrence. When radical excision is not possible, DXT appears to provide an additional effect on preventing tumor regrowth. Characteristics of craniopharyngiomas favoring radical excision are also discussed.", "PMID": 430156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_310", "title": "Studies of experimental cervical spinal cord transection. Part II: Plasma norepinephrine levels after acute cervical spinal cord transection.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) were measured by a radioenzymatic assay technique before and serially after laminectomy at the C-6 level in 14 anesthetized dogs. In half the animals, no further procedures were carried out (control group); in the other dogs, cervical cord transection was performed in addition to laminectomy (experimental group). Mean plasma NE levels were similar in both groups after laminectomy and before cord interruption. In the control group, NE levels increased gradually for 2 hours after the procedure. In the group with cord transection, however, NE rose immediately after transection to 267% of the baseline value, then fell to 25% of the plasma NE level in the control group at 30 minutes, 29% at 60 minutes, and 15% at 120 minutes. Cervical spinal cord transection, therefore, results in an abrupt but short-lived increase in plasma NE concentrations. These changes in plasma NE levels may explain, at least in part, the hemodynamic alterations and the acute central hemorrhagic necrosis that occur after high spinal cord trauma.", "contents": "Studies of experimental cervical spinal cord transection. Part II: Plasma norepinephrine levels after acute cervical spinal cord transection. Plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) were measured by a radioenzymatic assay technique before and serially after laminectomy at the C-6 level in 14 anesthetized dogs. In half the animals, no further procedures were carried out (control group); in the other dogs, cervical cord transection was performed in addition to laminectomy (experimental group). Mean plasma NE levels were similar in both groups after laminectomy and before cord interruption. In the control group, NE levels increased gradually for 2 hours after the procedure. In the group with cord transection, however, NE rose immediately after transection to 267% of the baseline value, then fell to 25% of the plasma NE level in the control group at 30 minutes, 29% at 60 minutes, and 15% at 120 minutes. Cervical spinal cord transection, therefore, results in an abrupt but short-lived increase in plasma NE concentrations. These changes in plasma NE levels may explain, at least in part, the hemodynamic alterations and the acute central hemorrhagic necrosis that occur after high spinal cord trauma.", "PMID": 430158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_311", "title": "Selective traumatic infarction of the human anterior hypothalamus. Clinical anatomical correlation.", "content": "A case of assult with bilateral manual avulsion of the eyes was followed by highly selective infarction of the anterior hypothalamus. The hypothalamic infarction occurred as a result of avulsion of part of the optic chiasm together with the anterior perforating arteries passing through it; Following this assault, symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction included altered thermoregulation, alternating diabetes insipidus, and inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion, altered patterns of sleep and arousal, and changing cardiac arrhythmias. The case casts light upon the vascular supply of the human hypothalamus and on the degree of localization existing for various hypothalamic functions.", "contents": "Selective traumatic infarction of the human anterior hypothalamus. Clinical anatomical correlation. A case of assult with bilateral manual avulsion of the eyes was followed by highly selective infarction of the anterior hypothalamus. The hypothalamic infarction occurred as a result of avulsion of part of the optic chiasm together with the anterior perforating arteries passing through it; Following this assault, symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction included altered thermoregulation, alternating diabetes insipidus, and inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion, altered patterns of sleep and arousal, and changing cardiac arrhythmias. The case casts light upon the vascular supply of the human hypothalamus and on the degree of localization existing for various hypothalamic functions.", "PMID": 430159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_312", "title": "Tetraplegia secondary to cervical sarcoidosis. Case report.", "content": "This is the report of a case of vertebral sarcoidosis causing collapse of cervical vertebrae with resulting tetraplegia. The patient was successfully treated by decompression and subsequent anterior removal of the invaded three vertebral bodies, followed by an autologous bone graft.", "contents": "Tetraplegia secondary to cervical sarcoidosis. Case report. This is the report of a case of vertebral sarcoidosis causing collapse of cervical vertebrae with resulting tetraplegia. The patient was successfully treated by decompression and subsequent anterior removal of the invaded three vertebral bodies, followed by an autologous bone graft.", "PMID": 430160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_313", "title": "Reconstruction of the atlas and axia with wire and acrylic after metastatic destruction. Case report.", "content": "The authors describe a method of C1-2 reconstruction by means of wires and acrylic in a patient with metastatic destruction from carcinoma of the rectum. A huge upper cervical tumor together with involved bone had been removed at an earlier operation.", "contents": "Reconstruction of the atlas and axia with wire and acrylic after metastatic destruction. Case report. The authors describe a method of C1-2 reconstruction by means of wires and acrylic in a patient with metastatic destruction from carcinoma of the rectum. A huge upper cervical tumor together with involved bone had been removed at an earlier operation.", "PMID": 430161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_314", "title": "Agenesis of parietal bones with restoration of the cranial vault. Case report.", "content": "Complete agenesis of both parietal bones was found as a single anomaly in an otherwise healthy boy. The defect in the cranial vault was restored with performed methyl methacrylate onlay plates.", "contents": "Agenesis of parietal bones with restoration of the cranial vault. Case report. Complete agenesis of both parietal bones was found as a single anomaly in an otherwise healthy boy. The defect in the cranial vault was restored with performed methyl methacrylate onlay plates.", "PMID": 430162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_315", "title": "Surgical removal of bilateral papillomas of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles with resolution of hydrocephalus. Case report.", "content": "The authors report a patient with bilateral papillomas of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles with documentation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypersecretion causing hydrocephalus. Special attention is given to the large volume of CSF produced by these tumors (removal of one tumor reduced CSF outflow by one-half) and to the fact that CSF diversion was not required after both tumors were removed. Since tumor removal alone was sufficient to stop the progression of hydrocephalus, we feel that this case supports the concept that elevated CSF production by itself is sufficient to cause hydrocephalus in patients with papillomas of the choroid plexus.", "contents": "Surgical removal of bilateral papillomas of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles with resolution of hydrocephalus. Case report. The authors report a patient with bilateral papillomas of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles with documentation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypersecretion causing hydrocephalus. Special attention is given to the large volume of CSF produced by these tumors (removal of one tumor reduced CSF outflow by one-half) and to the fact that CSF diversion was not required after both tumors were removed. Since tumor removal alone was sufficient to stop the progression of hydrocephalus, we feel that this case supports the concept that elevated CSF production by itself is sufficient to cause hydrocephalus in patients with papillomas of the choroid plexus.", "PMID": 430163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_316", "title": "Surgical postoperative bleeding associated with aspirin ingestion. Report of two cases.", "content": "Two patients are reported in whom repeated postoperative hematomas appeared to be secondary to aspirin-induced platelet defect. Routine bleeding and clotting studies will not demonstrate this platelet-induced coagulopathy. A previous history of massive aspirin ingestion makes such a coagulopathy a serious consideration, but the platelet defect may occur with small doses of aspirin. Such aspirin ingestion should be viewed with great concern by the neurosurgeon. The defect is treatable by platelet transfusion.", "contents": "Surgical postoperative bleeding associated with aspirin ingestion. Report of two cases. Two patients are reported in whom repeated postoperative hematomas appeared to be secondary to aspirin-induced platelet defect. Routine bleeding and clotting studies will not demonstrate this platelet-induced coagulopathy. A previous history of massive aspirin ingestion makes such a coagulopathy a serious consideration, but the platelet defect may occur with small doses of aspirin. Such aspirin ingestion should be viewed with great concern by the neurosurgeon. The defect is treatable by platelet transfusion.", "PMID": 430164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_317", "title": "Transient hemiparesis: a rare manifestation of diphenylhydantoin toxicity. Report of two cases.", "content": "Among the common side effects of diphenylhydantoin (DPH) overdose, the most frequently encountered neurological signs are those of cerebellar dysfunction. Very rarely, the toxic neurological manifestations of this drug are of cerebral origin. Two patients are presented who suffered progressive hemiparesis due to DPH overdose. Both had brain surgery before DPH treatment. It is assumed that patients with some cerebral damage are liable to manifest DPH toxicity as focal neurological signs.", "contents": "Transient hemiparesis: a rare manifestation of diphenylhydantoin toxicity. Report of two cases. Among the common side effects of diphenylhydantoin (DPH) overdose, the most frequently encountered neurological signs are those of cerebellar dysfunction. Very rarely, the toxic neurological manifestations of this drug are of cerebral origin. Two patients are presented who suffered progressive hemiparesis due to DPH overdose. Both had brain surgery before DPH treatment. It is assumed that patients with some cerebral damage are liable to manifest DPH toxicity as focal neurological signs.", "PMID": 430165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_318", "title": "Radionuclide left ventricular dV/dt for the assessment of cardiac function in patients with coronary disease.", "content": "To investigate potential uses of left-ventricular (LV) systolic ejection rate (LV dV/dt) in the evaluation of LV function, we examined the effect of exercise, angiotensin, and leg raising on LV ejection fraction and LV dV/dt in patients with coronary-artery disease. The following observations were made: a) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt changed proportionately, but in opposite directions, during supine exercise; b) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt decreased to a similar extent during angiotensin infusions; and c) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt were unchanged by leg raising. The changes in peak and mean LV dV/dt were similar. Regardless of the physiologic state, peak LV dV/dt occurred during the first third of systole. These data imply that in this population there were no specific advantages of LV dV/dt over LV ejection fraction in the evaluation of LV performance.", "contents": "Radionuclide left ventricular dV/dt for the assessment of cardiac function in patients with coronary disease. To investigate potential uses of left-ventricular (LV) systolic ejection rate (LV dV/dt) in the evaluation of LV function, we examined the effect of exercise, angiotensin, and leg raising on LV ejection fraction and LV dV/dt in patients with coronary-artery disease. The following observations were made: a) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt changed proportionately, but in opposite directions, during supine exercise; b) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt decreased to a similar extent during angiotensin infusions; and c) LV ejection fraction and dV/dt were unchanged by leg raising. The changes in peak and mean LV dV/dt were similar. Regardless of the physiologic state, peak LV dV/dt occurred during the first third of systole. These data imply that in this population there were no specific advantages of LV dV/dt over LV ejection fraction in the evaluation of LV performance.", "PMID": 430171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_319", "title": "Computer-assisted static/dynamic renal imaging: a screening test for renovascular hypertension?", "content": "Computer-assisted static/dynamic renal imaging with [197Hg] chlormerodrin and [99mTc]pertechnetate was evaluated prospectively as a screening test for renovascular hypertension. Results are reported for 51 patients: 33 with benign essential hypertension and 18 with renovascular hypertension, and for 21 normal controls. All patients underwent renal arteriography. Patients with significant obesity, renal insufficiency, or renoparenchymal disease were excluded from this study. Independent visual analyses of renal gamma images and time-activity transit curves identified 17 of the 18 patients with renovascular hypertension; one study was equivocal. There were five equivocal and three false-positive results in the essential hypertension and normal controls groups. The sensitivity of the method was 94% and the specificity 85%. Since the prevalence of the renovascular subset of hypertension is approximately 5%, the predictive value is only 25%. Inclusion of computer-generated data did not improve this result. Accordingly, this method is not recommended as a primary screening test for renovascular hypertension.", "contents": "Computer-assisted static/dynamic renal imaging: a screening test for renovascular hypertension? Computer-assisted static/dynamic renal imaging with [197Hg] chlormerodrin and [99mTc]pertechnetate was evaluated prospectively as a screening test for renovascular hypertension. Results are reported for 51 patients: 33 with benign essential hypertension and 18 with renovascular hypertension, and for 21 normal controls. All patients underwent renal arteriography. Patients with significant obesity, renal insufficiency, or renoparenchymal disease were excluded from this study. Independent visual analyses of renal gamma images and time-activity transit curves identified 17 of the 18 patients with renovascular hypertension; one study was equivocal. There were five equivocal and three false-positive results in the essential hypertension and normal controls groups. The sensitivity of the method was 94% and the specificity 85%. Since the prevalence of the renovascular subset of hypertension is approximately 5%, the predictive value is only 25%. Inclusion of computer-generated data did not improve this result. Accordingly, this method is not recommended as a primary screening test for renovascular hypertension.", "PMID": 430172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_320", "title": "Renographic evaluation of kidney preservation with chlorpromazine.", "content": "The effect of chlorpromazine pretreatment of kidneys then damaged by warm ischemia was investigated. The ischemia was inflicted on rabbit kidneys by renal arterial occlusion of 1 1/2 and 3 hours' duration after contralateral nephrectomy. Pretreatment with chlorpromazine, 3.5 mg/kg, was given intravenously before arterial clamping. I-125 Hippuran renography was performed before clamping, immediately after clamp release, and at 2, 4, 6, and 14 days later. Serum creatinine and survival rate were followed. Comparison with untreated control groups was made. The effect on tubular function was investigated by measuring I-125 Hippuran uptake in pretreated slices of renal cortex (compared with untreated contralateral kidney) 48 hr after circulation was restored to the ischemic kidney. Chlorpromazine pretreatment improved recovery from ischemic damage: the renograms showed improved Hippuran uptake after clamp removal, and return to normal was faster. Survival rate after 3 hr of ischemia increased from 1/10 to 6/10 in the pretreated group, and serum creatinine recovered earlier. Hippuran uptake in slices of cortex showed no significant improvement because of pretreatment. It is concluded that the beneficial effect of chlorpromazine pretreatment must be because of decreased vascular resistance, leading to long-lasting increased postischemic renal blood flow.", "contents": "Renographic evaluation of kidney preservation with chlorpromazine. The effect of chlorpromazine pretreatment of kidneys then damaged by warm ischemia was investigated. The ischemia was inflicted on rabbit kidneys by renal arterial occlusion of 1 1/2 and 3 hours' duration after contralateral nephrectomy. Pretreatment with chlorpromazine, 3.5 mg/kg, was given intravenously before arterial clamping. I-125 Hippuran renography was performed before clamping, immediately after clamp release, and at 2, 4, 6, and 14 days later. Serum creatinine and survival rate were followed. Comparison with untreated control groups was made. The effect on tubular function was investigated by measuring I-125 Hippuran uptake in pretreated slices of renal cortex (compared with untreated contralateral kidney) 48 hr after circulation was restored to the ischemic kidney. Chlorpromazine pretreatment improved recovery from ischemic damage: the renograms showed improved Hippuran uptake after clamp removal, and return to normal was faster. Survival rate after 3 hr of ischemia increased from 1/10 to 6/10 in the pretreated group, and serum creatinine recovered earlier. Hippuran uptake in slices of cortex showed no significant improvement because of pretreatment. It is concluded that the beneficial effect of chlorpromazine pretreatment must be because of decreased vascular resistance, leading to long-lasting increased postischemic renal blood flow.", "PMID": 430173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_321", "title": "In vivo measurement of liver perfusion in the normal and partially hepatectomized rat using Tc-99m sulfur colloid.", "content": "A nonsacrificial technique for measurement of liver perfusion in rats using Tc-99m sulfur colloid and gamma camera with computer system is described. The results of measurement in normal rats and at various stages after partial hepatectomy are presented and are compared with results obtained by workers using other techniques. The method reported here is simpler to perform than those previously reported and has the additional advantage that frequent sequential determinations of liver perfusion can be made.", "contents": "In vivo measurement of liver perfusion in the normal and partially hepatectomized rat using Tc-99m sulfur colloid. A nonsacrificial technique for measurement of liver perfusion in rats using Tc-99m sulfur colloid and gamma camera with computer system is described. The results of measurement in normal rats and at various stages after partial hepatectomy are presented and are compared with results obtained by workers using other techniques. The method reported here is simpler to perform than those previously reported and has the additional advantage that frequent sequential determinations of liver perfusion can be made.", "PMID": 430174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_322", "title": "Reversible functional asplenia in chronic aggressive hepatitis.", "content": "A 61-year-old man presented with aggressive hepatitis. Howell-Jolly bodies were present in circulating erythrocytes and the spleen failed to accumulate intravenously administered Tc-99 m sulfur colloid. The patient thus demonstrated functional asplenia. He was treated with high doses of steroids. Four years later, Howell-Jolly bodies were no longer present in circulating erythrocytes. In addition, the spleen had regained the ability to accumulate intravenously injected radiocolloid. Hence, the patient had reversed his functional asplenia. The reported cases of this disorder (reversible functional asplenia) were reviewed and a preliminary classification was proposed.", "contents": "Reversible functional asplenia in chronic aggressive hepatitis. A 61-year-old man presented with aggressive hepatitis. Howell-Jolly bodies were present in circulating erythrocytes and the spleen failed to accumulate intravenously administered Tc-99 m sulfur colloid. The patient thus demonstrated functional asplenia. He was treated with high doses of steroids. Four years later, Howell-Jolly bodies were no longer present in circulating erythrocytes. In addition, the spleen had regained the ability to accumulate intravenously injected radiocolloid. Hence, the patient had reversed his functional asplenia. The reported cases of this disorder (reversible functional asplenia) were reviewed and a preliminary classification was proposed.", "PMID": 430176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_323", "title": "Complex formed from 3-hydroxy-4-formylpyridine, glutamic acid, and technetium--a possible cholescintigraphic agent.", "content": "In order to obtain a technetium-99m-labeled cholescintigraphic agent suitable for kit preparation, reactions of a variety of aromatic aldehydes, amino acids, and [99mTc] pertechnetate were examined under mild conditions. Aqueous solutions of the three reactants were heated in a boiling-water bath and the products analyzed by means of thin-layer chromatography for the formation of organic technetium complexes. 3-Hydroxy-4-formylpyridine (HFP) and 1-methyl-3-hydroxy-4-formylpyridinium chloride (N-Me-HFP) formed the complex with excellent yields, whereas 3-hydroxy-2-formylpyridine, 4-nitrosalicylaldehyde, salicylaldehyde, and isonicotinaldehyde did not. The complex is concluded to be the Tc-99m chelate of the Schiff base formed from the aldehyde and amino acbbits administered with the complex of HFP, glutamic acid and Tc-99m. The results indicate that it is promising as a cholescintigraphic agent.", "contents": "Complex formed from 3-hydroxy-4-formylpyridine, glutamic acid, and technetium--a possible cholescintigraphic agent. In order to obtain a technetium-99m-labeled cholescintigraphic agent suitable for kit preparation, reactions of a variety of aromatic aldehydes, amino acids, and [99mTc] pertechnetate were examined under mild conditions. Aqueous solutions of the three reactants were heated in a boiling-water bath and the products analyzed by means of thin-layer chromatography for the formation of organic technetium complexes. 3-Hydroxy-4-formylpyridine (HFP) and 1-methyl-3-hydroxy-4-formylpyridinium chloride (N-Me-HFP) formed the complex with excellent yields, whereas 3-hydroxy-2-formylpyridine, 4-nitrosalicylaldehyde, salicylaldehyde, and isonicotinaldehyde did not. The complex is concluded to be the Tc-99m chelate of the Schiff base formed from the aldehyde and amino acbbits administered with the complex of HFP, glutamic acid and Tc-99m. The results indicate that it is promising as a cholescintigraphic agent.", "PMID": 430177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_324", "title": "Optimization of the gray scale for photoscanners: concise communication.", "content": "A gray scale providing easy visual interpretation of black-and-white photoscan transparencies was determined empirically from psychophysical studies conducted on 50 observers. This optimum gray scale provides equal visualization for equal countrate changes over the entire film range.", "contents": "Optimization of the gray scale for photoscanners: concise communication. A gray scale providing easy visual interpretation of black-and-white photoscan transparencies was determined empirically from psychophysical studies conducted on 50 observers. This optimum gray scale provides equal visualization for equal countrate changes over the entire film range.", "PMID": 430179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_325", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of hepatobiliary imaging agents in rats: concise communication.", "content": "The distribution and elimination kinetics of Tc-99m pyridoxlidene glutamate (Tc-99m PG), of Tc-99m N-(2,6-dimethyl-phenylcarbamoylmethyl) iminodiacetic acid (Tc-99m HIDA), and of I-131 rose bengal in blood were quantitated after i.v. injection in rats. This was performed by use of a unique indwelling catheter that externalizes the systemic circulation, permitting continuous monitoring of blood radioactivity. The blood activity-time curves of Tc-99m PG and Tc-99m HIDA are described by the sum of three exponential functions. Only two exponentials are required in the case of I-131 rose bengal. The rank order for the rates of loss from blood was Tc-99m HIDA less than Tc-99m PG less than I-131 rose bengal. Bile was collected after administration of Tc-99m HIDA and Tc-99m PG. The total excretion of radioactivity over a 70-min period amounted to 95.7% and 42.8% of the dose of Tc-99m HIDA and Tc-99m PG, respectively. A linear compartmental kinetic model was developed to account for the disappearance from blood and the biliary excretion of these radiopharmaceuticals in rats.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of hepatobiliary imaging agents in rats: concise communication. The distribution and elimination kinetics of Tc-99m pyridoxlidene glutamate (Tc-99m PG), of Tc-99m N-(2,6-dimethyl-phenylcarbamoylmethyl) iminodiacetic acid (Tc-99m HIDA), and of I-131 rose bengal in blood were quantitated after i.v. injection in rats. This was performed by use of a unique indwelling catheter that externalizes the systemic circulation, permitting continuous monitoring of blood radioactivity. The blood activity-time curves of Tc-99m PG and Tc-99m HIDA are described by the sum of three exponential functions. Only two exponentials are required in the case of I-131 rose bengal. The rank order for the rates of loss from blood was Tc-99m HIDA less than Tc-99m PG less than I-131 rose bengal. Bile was collected after administration of Tc-99m HIDA and Tc-99m PG. The total excretion of radioactivity over a 70-min period amounted to 95.7% and 42.8% of the dose of Tc-99m HIDA and Tc-99m PG, respectively. A linear compartmental kinetic model was developed to account for the disappearance from blood and the biliary excretion of these radiopharmaceuticals in rats.", "PMID": 430178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_326", "title": "Absorbed dose to the human adrenals from lodomethylnorcholesterol (I-131) \"NP-59\": concise communication.", "content": "During the past 2 years, adrenal uptake percentage values were measured in more than 40 patients, using an external counting technique. They suggest that the absorbed dose to the adrenals is significantly less than 150 rads/mCIi previously estimated using concentration values from animal adrenals. The measured combined uptake percentage for both adrenals ranged from 0.15% to 0.52% in 21 patients without evidence of adrenal disease, with a mean of 0.33% +/- 0.1%; also from 0.22% to 1.5% in 22 patients with Cushing's disease, with a mean uptake of 0.78% +/- 0.35%. The absorbed dose to the adrenals was estimated to be 25 rads/mCi for patients without evidence of adrenal disease, and 57 rads/mCi for patients with Cushing's disease. Both values are calculated for the respective mean uptake percentages by using MIRD formalism.", "contents": "Absorbed dose to the human adrenals from lodomethylnorcholesterol (I-131) \"NP-59\": concise communication. During the past 2 years, adrenal uptake percentage values were measured in more than 40 patients, using an external counting technique. They suggest that the absorbed dose to the adrenals is significantly less than 150 rads/mCIi previously estimated using concentration values from animal adrenals. The measured combined uptake percentage for both adrenals ranged from 0.15% to 0.52% in 21 patients without evidence of adrenal disease, with a mean of 0.33% +/- 0.1%; also from 0.22% to 1.5% in 22 patients with Cushing's disease, with a mean uptake of 0.78% +/- 0.35%. The absorbed dose to the adrenals was estimated to be 25 rads/mCi for patients without evidence of adrenal disease, and 57 rads/mCi for patients with Cushing's disease. Both values are calculated for the respective mean uptake percentages by using MIRD formalism.", "PMID": 430180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_327", "title": "Adrenal imaging with iodomethyl-norcholesterol (I-131) in primary aldosteronism.", "content": "Twenty consecutive patients with primary aldosteronism (PAl) underwent dexamethasone suppression (DS) imaging with 6beta-[131I]-iodomethyl-19-norcholesterol (NP-59): A) to establish the value of the adrenal scan in distinguishing aldosteronomas from bilateral hyperplasia; b) to determine its ability to locate aldosteronomas when present; and c) to compare the efficacy of NP-59 in this current series against that reported previously with NM-145 in PAl. Ten of twenty patients had an aldosteronoma, five had histologically confirmed hyperplasia, and five had presumed hyperplasia. With NP-59, nine of ten tumors were correctly located (90%) , correct distinction between tumor and hyperplasia was possible in 90%, and a locating DS scan was specific for tumor in 90%. In a combined series of different patients with PAl imaged with NM-125, 21 of 25 tumors were correctly located (84%), tumor was distinguished from hyperplasia in 86%, and the specificity of the localizing scan was 92%. The imaging delay required from tracer injection to attainment of an interpretable scan averaged 2.7 days with NP-59 and 4.8 days with NM-145. In summary, no significant differences were noted in the clinical results achieved with these two agents. The preferred agent is NP-59, since the study can be completed with less average time delay than is possible with NM-145.", "contents": "Adrenal imaging with iodomethyl-norcholesterol (I-131) in primary aldosteronism. Twenty consecutive patients with primary aldosteronism (PAl) underwent dexamethasone suppression (DS) imaging with 6beta-[131I]-iodomethyl-19-norcholesterol (NP-59): A) to establish the value of the adrenal scan in distinguishing aldosteronomas from bilateral hyperplasia; b) to determine its ability to locate aldosteronomas when present; and c) to compare the efficacy of NP-59 in this current series against that reported previously with NM-145 in PAl. Ten of twenty patients had an aldosteronoma, five had histologically confirmed hyperplasia, and five had presumed hyperplasia. With NP-59, nine of ten tumors were correctly located (90%) , correct distinction between tumor and hyperplasia was possible in 90%, and a locating DS scan was specific for tumor in 90%. In a combined series of different patients with PAl imaged with NM-125, 21 of 25 tumors were correctly located (84%), tumor was distinguished from hyperplasia in 86%, and the specificity of the localizing scan was 92%. The imaging delay required from tracer injection to attainment of an interpretable scan averaged 2.7 days with NP-59 and 4.8 days with NM-145. In summary, no significant differences were noted in the clinical results achieved with these two agents. The preferred agent is NP-59, since the study can be completed with less average time delay than is possible with NM-145.", "PMID": 430181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_328", "title": "Assessment of serum myoglobin as a marker for acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "The reliability of serum myoglobin as a marker for acute myocardial infarction was evaluated in 157 consecutive coronary-care admissions. Admission myoglobin was elevated in 47 of 52 patients with acute infarction. Excluding those patients who presented later than 24 hr after symptom onset, only one patient with acute infarct had a normal admission myoglobin. In 22 of 105 patients with no infarct, myoglobin was elevated in association with angina, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and renal insufficiency. The detection of acute infarction by serum myoglobin measurement equals that of serial serum creatine phosphokinase isoenzymes (CPK-MB) by electrophoresis, but an elevated myoglobin is not specific for what is now considered clinically significant myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Assessment of serum myoglobin as a marker for acute myocardial infarction. The reliability of serum myoglobin as a marker for acute myocardial infarction was evaluated in 157 consecutive coronary-care admissions. Admission myoglobin was elevated in 47 of 52 patients with acute infarction. Excluding those patients who presented later than 24 hr after symptom onset, only one patient with acute infarct had a normal admission myoglobin. In 22 of 105 patients with no infarct, myoglobin was elevated in association with angina, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and renal insufficiency. The detection of acute infarction by serum myoglobin measurement equals that of serial serum creatine phosphokinase isoenzymes (CPK-MB) by electrophoresis, but an elevated myoglobin is not specific for what is now considered clinically significant myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 430183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_329", "title": "Serum myoglobin determination: laboratory and clinical evaluation.", "content": "Quality assurance examination of a commercially available radioimmunoassay kit for determination of serum myoglobin level conformed the measurement to be accurate, precise, and reproducible under all assay performance variables. Initial clinical evaluation in patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit revealed comparable diagnostic parameters and earlier detection when compared with the present standard indicator of myocardial necrosis, creatine phosphokinase MB isoenzyme. Interpretation that an elevated myoglobin reflects acute myocardial infarction should be made only in the appropriate clinical context.", "contents": "Serum myoglobin determination: laboratory and clinical evaluation. Quality assurance examination of a commercially available radioimmunoassay kit for determination of serum myoglobin level conformed the measurement to be accurate, precise, and reproducible under all assay performance variables. Initial clinical evaluation in patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit revealed comparable diagnostic parameters and earlier detection when compared with the present standard indicator of myocardial necrosis, creatine phosphokinase MB isoenzyme. Interpretation that an elevated myoglobin reflects acute myocardial infarction should be made only in the appropriate clinical context.", "PMID": 430184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_330", "title": "Hypervascular presentation of multiple myeloma involving the skull, demonstrated on encephaloscintigraphy.", "content": "We present two cases of myelomatous involvement of the skull. Correlative studies with routine radiography, angiography, and encephaloscintigraphy were performed. The areas of involvement of the skull were confirmed as autopsy. A mixed pattern of photon-deficient and photon-abundant lesions was noted. The clinician should be aware of such mixed patterns.", "contents": "Hypervascular presentation of multiple myeloma involving the skull, demonstrated on encephaloscintigraphy. We present two cases of myelomatous involvement of the skull. Correlative studies with routine radiography, angiography, and encephaloscintigraphy were performed. The areas of involvement of the skull were confirmed as autopsy. A mixed pattern of photon-deficient and photon-abundant lesions was noted. The clinician should be aware of such mixed patterns.", "PMID": 430185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_331", "title": "Visualization of alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis: a correlative radiotracer, histochemical, and electron-microscopic study.", "content": "Technetium-99m diphosphonate was used to visualize the extent of alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis and its resolution. Transient secondary hyperparathyroidism was documented. Histological and biochemical analyses of skeletal muscle obtained at biopsy 6 days postscan and 9 days after the onset of the illness did not show abnormal calcium content.", "contents": "Visualization of alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis: a correlative radiotracer, histochemical, and electron-microscopic study. Technetium-99m diphosphonate was used to visualize the extent of alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis and its resolution. Transient secondary hyperparathyroidism was documented. Histological and biochemical analyses of skeletal muscle obtained at biopsy 6 days postscan and 9 days after the onset of the illness did not show abnormal calcium content.", "PMID": 430186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_332", "title": "Migratory osteolysis.", "content": "Migratory osteolysis is a recently recognized syndrome characterized by a migratory articular pain pattern of the lower extremities and associated radiographically with localized and reversible juxta-articular osteoporosis. Serial bone scans, both dynamic and static, appear to offer a new and more sensitive means for diagnosing and monitoring of this condition. The dynamic studies suggest that augmented osseous blood flow is responsible, at least in part, for increased radioactivity in clinically involved areas and presumably is mediating the osteoporotic process.", "contents": "Migratory osteolysis. Migratory osteolysis is a recently recognized syndrome characterized by a migratory articular pain pattern of the lower extremities and associated radiographically with localized and reversible juxta-articular osteoporosis. Serial bone scans, both dynamic and static, appear to offer a new and more sensitive means for diagnosing and monitoring of this condition. The dynamic studies suggest that augmented osseous blood flow is responsible, at least in part, for increased radioactivity in clinically involved areas and presumably is mediating the osteoporotic process.", "PMID": 430187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_333", "title": "Colloidal particle-size determination by gel filtration.", "content": "The particle sizes of technetium-99m sulfur colloid and technetium-99m antimony sulfide colloid are determined by gel filtration. These results are compared with those obtained by electron microscopy and by ultrafiltration. It is shown that gel filtration is suitable for particle-size determination below 100 nm, whereas above this size ultrafiltration provides the most convenient method.", "contents": "Colloidal particle-size determination by gel filtration. The particle sizes of technetium-99m sulfur colloid and technetium-99m antimony sulfide colloid are determined by gel filtration. These results are compared with those obtained by electron microscopy and by ultrafiltration. It is shown that gel filtration is suitable for particle-size determination below 100 nm, whereas above this size ultrafiltration provides the most convenient method.", "PMID": 430188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_334", "title": "Imaging the adrenal medulla with an I-131-labeled antiadrenergic agent.", "content": "Tissue distributions of four antiadrenergic agents labeled with iodine-125 have been determined in dogs. [125I] ortho-iodobenzldimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl ammonium and [125I] ortho-iodobenzyldimethylethyl ammonium show highly selective uptake in the adrenal medulla. Studies of molecular structure-distribution indicate that both the nature of the cationic head and the ring position of the iodine atom greatly influence adrenal specificity. Distinct images of dogs' adrenal medulla have been obtained 4 days after i.v. injection of 1.5 mCi of [131I] ortho-iodobenzyldimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl ammonium.", "contents": "Imaging the adrenal medulla with an I-131-labeled antiadrenergic agent. Tissue distributions of four antiadrenergic agents labeled with iodine-125 have been determined in dogs. [125I] ortho-iodobenzldimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl ammonium and [125I] ortho-iodobenzyldimethylethyl ammonium show highly selective uptake in the adrenal medulla. Studies of molecular structure-distribution indicate that both the nature of the cationic head and the ring position of the iodine atom greatly influence adrenal specificity. Distinct images of dogs' adrenal medulla have been obtained 4 days after i.v. injection of 1.5 mCi of [131I] ortho-iodobenzyldimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl ammonium.", "PMID": 430189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_335", "title": "A simple method for the air monitoring of xenon-133.", "content": "A simple and inexpensive method to monitor the air for Xe-133 is described. The procedure requires only standard 10-cc evaculated tubes, a scintillation well counter, and a dose calibrator--standard equipment in most nuclear medicine laboratories. Air contamination in the range of the maximum permissible concentration in restricted areas (10pCi/cc) can be detected easily by this technique.", "contents": "A simple method for the air monitoring of xenon-133. A simple and inexpensive method to monitor the air for Xe-133 is described. The procedure requires only standard 10-cc evaculated tubes, a scintillation well counter, and a dose calibrator--standard equipment in most nuclear medicine laboratories. Air contamination in the range of the maximum permissible concentration in restricted areas (10pCi/cc) can be detected easily by this technique.", "PMID": 430190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_336", "title": "Comments on equilibrium, transient equilibrium, and secular equilibrium in serial radioactive decay.", "content": "Equations describing serial radioactive decay are reviewed along with published descriptions of transient and secular equilibrium. It is shown that terms describing equilibrium are not used in the same way by various authors. Specific definitions are proposed; they suggest that secular equilibrium is a subset of transient equilibrium.", "contents": "Comments on equilibrium, transient equilibrium, and secular equilibrium in serial radioactive decay. Equations describing serial radioactive decay are reviewed along with published descriptions of transient and secular equilibrium. It is shown that terms describing equilibrium are not used in the same way by various authors. Specific definitions are proposed; they suggest that secular equilibrium is a subset of transient equilibrium.", "PMID": 430191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_337", "title": "In vivo analysis of bone calcium by local neutron activation of the hand: results in normal and osteoporotic subjects.", "content": "Mineral loss from bone can be measured accurately and reproducibly by neutron activation of the hand bones using a 5-min irradiation (10(6) n/cm2-sec) with two 200-microgram sources of Cf-252. The hand dose is 7.5 rad equivalent and the dose to the rest of body is 1.5 mrem. Controls (132) and osteoporotic patients (45) were compared. Between ages 20 and 60 the control group showed a bone calcium concentration of 0.177 +/- 0.025 g/cm3, independent of age. Between 60 and 70 the content remained unchanged in men but declined in women to 0.15 +/- 0.2 g/cm3. In all age groups osteoporotic patients in general showed lower calcium content. Comparison of our findings (\"Ca\") with estimates of bone mineral content obtained by photon absorptiometry (\"BMC\") yields 0.07 Ca + 0.262 (r = 0.87). Activation analysis of hand bone appears more precise than BMC for the monitoring of bone-mineral loss in each individual and as a measure of treatment efficacy.", "contents": "In vivo analysis of bone calcium by local neutron activation of the hand: results in normal and osteoporotic subjects. Mineral loss from bone can be measured accurately and reproducibly by neutron activation of the hand bones using a 5-min irradiation (10(6) n/cm2-sec) with two 200-microgram sources of Cf-252. The hand dose is 7.5 rad equivalent and the dose to the rest of body is 1.5 mrem. Controls (132) and osteoporotic patients (45) were compared. Between ages 20 and 60 the control group showed a bone calcium concentration of 0.177 +/- 0.025 g/cm3, independent of age. Between 60 and 70 the content remained unchanged in men but declined in women to 0.15 +/- 0.2 g/cm3. In all age groups osteoporotic patients in general showed lower calcium content. Comparison of our findings (\"Ca\") with estimates of bone mineral content obtained by photon absorptiometry (\"BMC\") yields 0.07 Ca + 0.262 (r = 0.87). Activation analysis of hand bone appears more precise than BMC for the monitoring of bone-mineral loss in each individual and as a measure of treatment efficacy.", "PMID": 430200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_338", "title": "Comparison of the distribution of diagnostic and thyroablative I-131 in the evaluation of differentiated thyroid cancers.", "content": "In 206 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer, the distribution of iodine-131 were compared after diagnostic (200-500 microCi) and thyroblative (approximately 100 mCi) doses. In the diagnostic scans, only normal thyroid tissue could be seen, whereas in one-fourth of the patients the therapeutic scans showed tumor tissue as well, usually in lymphnode metastases. In 16% of patients, the therapeutic scan was the only way to demonstrate the presence of tumor tissue, since no further uptake was achievable. In patients in whom all tumor was believed to have been removed by surgery alone, a \"preventive\" I-131 ablation was used, and in 16 of these 97 patients tumor was revealed in the therapeutic scan. In ten more, tumor was found in subsequent followup scans, its functioning having been induced by destruction of postsurgical remnants of normal thyroid. Some possible explanations for the differences in scans are proposed, and the importance of therapeutic scans for correct staging of thyroid cancer is stressed.", "contents": "Comparison of the distribution of diagnostic and thyroablative I-131 in the evaluation of differentiated thyroid cancers. In 206 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer, the distribution of iodine-131 were compared after diagnostic (200-500 microCi) and thyroblative (approximately 100 mCi) doses. In the diagnostic scans, only normal thyroid tissue could be seen, whereas in one-fourth of the patients the therapeutic scans showed tumor tissue as well, usually in lymphnode metastases. In 16% of patients, the therapeutic scan was the only way to demonstrate the presence of tumor tissue, since no further uptake was achievable. In patients in whom all tumor was believed to have been removed by surgery alone, a \"preventive\" I-131 ablation was used, and in 16 of these 97 patients tumor was revealed in the therapeutic scan. In ten more, tumor was found in subsequent followup scans, its functioning having been induced by destruction of postsurgical remnants of normal thyroid. Some possible explanations for the differences in scans are proposed, and the importance of therapeutic scans for correct staging of thyroid cancer is stressed.", "PMID": 430201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_339", "title": "A clinical comparison of Tc-99m HEDP and Tc-99m MDP in the detection of bone metastases: concise communication.", "content": "We have compared bone scintigrams made with Tc-99m-tagged HEDP (1-hydroxyethylidene diphosphonate)and MDP (methylene diphosphonate), the former at 4 hr after injection, the latter at both 2 and 4 hr. In 17 patients with skeletal metastases, there was no significant difference in lesion count or scan quality between the 4-hr images. The tumor-to-bone ratio (T/B) was significantly higher with Tc-HEDP (p less than 0.02). Lesion detection rate and T/B ratios were both lower with Tc-MDP at 2 hr when compared with the 4-hr values for both Tc-HEDP (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.005) and Tc-MDP (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.01). The 4-hr Tc-MDP scan was of significantly higher quality than the 2 hr Tc-MDP scan (p less than 0.01). Although Tc-HEDP produces a higher T/B ratio at 4 hr, the present study does not suggest that either agent is superior in clinical practice.", "contents": "A clinical comparison of Tc-99m HEDP and Tc-99m MDP in the detection of bone metastases: concise communication. We have compared bone scintigrams made with Tc-99m-tagged HEDP (1-hydroxyethylidene diphosphonate)and MDP (methylene diphosphonate), the former at 4 hr after injection, the latter at both 2 and 4 hr. In 17 patients with skeletal metastases, there was no significant difference in lesion count or scan quality between the 4-hr images. The tumor-to-bone ratio (T/B) was significantly higher with Tc-HEDP (p less than 0.02). Lesion detection rate and T/B ratios were both lower with Tc-MDP at 2 hr when compared with the 4-hr values for both Tc-HEDP (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.005) and Tc-MDP (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.01). The 4-hr Tc-MDP scan was of significantly higher quality than the 2 hr Tc-MDP scan (p less than 0.01). Although Tc-HEDP produces a higher T/B ratio at 4 hr, the present study does not suggest that either agent is superior in clinical practice.", "PMID": 430202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_340", "title": "Availability of adipose tissue tocopherol in the guinea pig.", "content": "Young guinea pigs were fed a purified diet containing vitamin E for 3 weeks and then fed the diet without vitamin E for 8 weeks. Levels of vitamin E in plasma and liver decreased to low values within a week. Depletion rates for heart and muscle were much slower, whereas the rate of loss from fat was negligible. In experiments with more mature guinea pigs and a depletion period of 4 months, the depletion rate of tocopherol from fat was also barely detectable. Both yound and mature guinea pigs developed myopathy after 8 weeks of depletion. Apparently, tocopherol in adipose tissue is not sufficiently available to maintain plasma tocopherol levels or to prevent signs of vitamin E deficiency. Even during fasting, adipose tissue tocopherol was not mobilized readily. During a 4 day fast, adipose tissue mass diminished considerably, but there was no appreciable loss of tocopherol.", "contents": "Availability of adipose tissue tocopherol in the guinea pig. Young guinea pigs were fed a purified diet containing vitamin E for 3 weeks and then fed the diet without vitamin E for 8 weeks. Levels of vitamin E in plasma and liver decreased to low values within a week. Depletion rates for heart and muscle were much slower, whereas the rate of loss from fat was negligible. In experiments with more mature guinea pigs and a depletion period of 4 months, the depletion rate of tocopherol from fat was also barely detectable. Both yound and mature guinea pigs developed myopathy after 8 weeks of depletion. Apparently, tocopherol in adipose tissue is not sufficiently available to maintain plasma tocopherol levels or to prevent signs of vitamin E deficiency. Even during fasting, adipose tissue tocopherol was not mobilized readily. During a 4 day fast, adipose tissue mass diminished considerably, but there was no appreciable loss of tocopherol.", "PMID": 430203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_341", "title": "In vitro studies of fatty acid metabolism in vitamin B6 deficient rats.", "content": "The oxidation of [1-14C]palmitate, [1-14C]linoleate, and [1-14C]arachidonate as well as their incorporation into lipids was investigated in vitamin B6 deficient rats using liver slices and isolated mitochondria. In experiments on fatty acid oxidation in liver slices, we observed a decrease in the production of 14CO2 from radioactive palmitate and linoleate, but not from arachidonate. In the case of mitochondria, we detected no difference between the deficient rats and the controls with linoleats; however, there was an increase in the oxidation of palmitate in the deficient rats as compared to the controls. Experiments on the incorporation of radioactivity into lipids showed an increase in radioactivity from [1-14C]palmitate and [1-14C]linoleate in the triglyceride, phospholipid and cholesterol fractions of deficient rats. In the case of [1-14C]arachidonate, no difference was observed between the two groups of rats. These experiments showed that major changes occurred in metabolism of palmitate and linoleate and strongly suggested that the decrease in the arachidonate content previously observed in rat tissues could not be explained by alteration in the metabolism of this fatty acid.", "contents": "In vitro studies of fatty acid metabolism in vitamin B6 deficient rats. The oxidation of [1-14C]palmitate, [1-14C]linoleate, and [1-14C]arachidonate as well as their incorporation into lipids was investigated in vitamin B6 deficient rats using liver slices and isolated mitochondria. In experiments on fatty acid oxidation in liver slices, we observed a decrease in the production of 14CO2 from radioactive palmitate and linoleate, but not from arachidonate. In the case of mitochondria, we detected no difference between the deficient rats and the controls with linoleats; however, there was an increase in the oxidation of palmitate in the deficient rats as compared to the controls. Experiments on the incorporation of radioactivity into lipids showed an increase in radioactivity from [1-14C]palmitate and [1-14C]linoleate in the triglyceride, phospholipid and cholesterol fractions of deficient rats. In the case of [1-14C]arachidonate, no difference was observed between the two groups of rats. These experiments showed that major changes occurred in metabolism of palmitate and linoleate and strongly suggested that the decrease in the arachidonate content previously observed in rat tissues could not be explained by alteration in the metabolism of this fatty acid.", "PMID": 430206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_342", "title": "Determination of the site of zinc absorption in rat small intestine.", "content": "We have studied net uptake of zinc from segments of rat duodenum, jejunum, and ileum using in vivo intestinal perfusion. We have also evaluated the effect of pancreatic and bile secretions on duodenal zinc absorption. Segments of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum and duodenum with bile and pancreatic duct obstruction, 10 cm in length, were studied in six rats each. Percentage absorption of zinc as determined by atomic absorption spectrophotomety was greater from the ileum (60.1%) when compared to duodenum (19.1%) or jejunum (20.2%). Exclusion of bile and pancreatic secretions from the lumen increased zinc absorption in the duodenum (32.0%). Postperfusion mucosal zinc content comprised 29.0% of absorbed zinc from jejunum, 7.4% from ileum, 5.2% from duodenum, and 2.7% from duodenum with bile and pancreatic duct obstructed, indicating rapid transport of zinc across epithelial cells after uptake from the duodenum and ileum. Our data indicate that the ileum has the greatest capacity for zinc absorption.", "contents": "Determination of the site of zinc absorption in rat small intestine. We have studied net uptake of zinc from segments of rat duodenum, jejunum, and ileum using in vivo intestinal perfusion. We have also evaluated the effect of pancreatic and bile secretions on duodenal zinc absorption. Segments of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum and duodenum with bile and pancreatic duct obstruction, 10 cm in length, were studied in six rats each. Percentage absorption of zinc as determined by atomic absorption spectrophotomety was greater from the ileum (60.1%) when compared to duodenum (19.1%) or jejunum (20.2%). Exclusion of bile and pancreatic secretions from the lumen increased zinc absorption in the duodenum (32.0%). Postperfusion mucosal zinc content comprised 29.0% of absorbed zinc from jejunum, 7.4% from ileum, 5.2% from duodenum, and 2.7% from duodenum with bile and pancreatic duct obstructed, indicating rapid transport of zinc across epithelial cells after uptake from the duodenum and ileum. Our data indicate that the ileum has the greatest capacity for zinc absorption.", "PMID": 430207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_343", "title": "The effect of long-term fasting on the branched chain acylcarnitines and branched chain carnitine acyltransferases.", "content": "The effect of fasting for 8 days on the levels of carnitine acyltransferases in heart, liver, liver mitochondria, skeletal muscle, skeletal muscle mitochondria, kidney, and testes in young adult male rats was determined. The specific activities of acetyl-, octanyl-, isobutyryl-, and isovaleryl-carnitine acyltransferase in mitochondria isolated from the livers of fasted animals were significantly higher than the levels of the transferases isolated from livers of fed animals. Similar results were obtained with the 500 x g supernatant fluids from liver. In contrast, the specific activities of carnitine acyltransferases of 500 x g supernatant fractions isolated from heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, and testes were the same for fed as fasted animals. The total carnitine content of liver, muscle, heart, and kidney was less in animals fasted for 8 days than in fed animals, but the amount/g of organ was higher in the animals fasted for 8 days. The amount of specific short-chain acylcarnitines in liver, muscle, and heart was determined for both fed and fasted animals. The amount of isobutyrylcarnitine and isovalerylcarnitine increased significantly in muscle from fasted animals. These data are consistent with the previous suggestion that carnitine may have a role in the metabolism of the branched-chain amino acids.", "contents": "The effect of long-term fasting on the branched chain acylcarnitines and branched chain carnitine acyltransferases. The effect of fasting for 8 days on the levels of carnitine acyltransferases in heart, liver, liver mitochondria, skeletal muscle, skeletal muscle mitochondria, kidney, and testes in young adult male rats was determined. The specific activities of acetyl-, octanyl-, isobutyryl-, and isovaleryl-carnitine acyltransferase in mitochondria isolated from the livers of fasted animals were significantly higher than the levels of the transferases isolated from livers of fed animals. Similar results were obtained with the 500 x g supernatant fluids from liver. In contrast, the specific activities of carnitine acyltransferases of 500 x g supernatant fractions isolated from heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, and testes were the same for fed as fasted animals. The total carnitine content of liver, muscle, heart, and kidney was less in animals fasted for 8 days than in fed animals, but the amount/g of organ was higher in the animals fasted for 8 days. The amount of specific short-chain acylcarnitines in liver, muscle, and heart was determined for both fed and fasted animals. The amount of isobutyrylcarnitine and isovalerylcarnitine increased significantly in muscle from fasted animals. These data are consistent with the previous suggestion that carnitine may have a role in the metabolism of the branched-chain amino acids.", "PMID": 430209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_344", "title": "Interrelationships in rats among dietary vitamin B6, glycine and hydroxyproline. Effects of oxalate, glyoxylate, glycolate, and glycine on liver enzymes.", "content": "Urinary endogenous oxalate was increased by feeding vitamin B6-deficient or control rats with 5.2% hydroxyproline, or 3% glycine plus 5.2% hydroxyproline. The activities of liver lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) , malic enzyme (ME), and ATP citrate lyase were decreased in vitamin B6-DEFICIENT RATS, AND THEIR LIVEr G6PD was further decreased by the addition of glycine and hydroxyproline to their diets. Supplementing control diets with the two amino acids decreased the activities of rat liver LDH, G6PD, and ATP citrate lyase. The effects of glycine and hydroxyproline feeding on the enzymes studied did not appear related to alterations in insulin availability. Since in vitamin B6-deficient rats, there are increases in urinary levels of oxalic and glycolic acids, and glycine, and increases in tissue levels of glyoxylic acid and glycine, the effects of these metabolites on the activities of the above mentioned enzymes were measured. Oxalic acid inhibited the activities of LDH, G6PD, and ME. Glyoxylic acid inhibited LDH and ME, but not G6PD. Glycolic acid inhibited G6PD and ME, but not LDH. ATP citrate lyase was not affected by these substances. Glycine had no effect on the enzymes studied. Diets which increased oxalate excretion generally reduced or did not alter liver and kidney levels of oxalate, glycolate, and glyoxylate. However, the feeding of glycine and hydroxyproline increased kidney oxalate, and liver and kidney glyoxylate in vitamin B6-deficient rats.", "contents": "Interrelationships in rats among dietary vitamin B6, glycine and hydroxyproline. Effects of oxalate, glyoxylate, glycolate, and glycine on liver enzymes. Urinary endogenous oxalate was increased by feeding vitamin B6-deficient or control rats with 5.2% hydroxyproline, or 3% glycine plus 5.2% hydroxyproline. The activities of liver lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) , malic enzyme (ME), and ATP citrate lyase were decreased in vitamin B6-DEFICIENT RATS, AND THEIR LIVEr G6PD was further decreased by the addition of glycine and hydroxyproline to their diets. Supplementing control diets with the two amino acids decreased the activities of rat liver LDH, G6PD, and ATP citrate lyase. The effects of glycine and hydroxyproline feeding on the enzymes studied did not appear related to alterations in insulin availability. Since in vitamin B6-deficient rats, there are increases in urinary levels of oxalic and glycolic acids, and glycine, and increases in tissue levels of glyoxylic acid and glycine, the effects of these metabolites on the activities of the above mentioned enzymes were measured. Oxalic acid inhibited the activities of LDH, G6PD, and ME. Glyoxylic acid inhibited LDH and ME, but not G6PD. Glycolic acid inhibited G6PD and ME, but not LDH. ATP citrate lyase was not affected by these substances. Glycine had no effect on the enzymes studied. Diets which increased oxalate excretion generally reduced or did not alter liver and kidney levels of oxalate, glycolate, and glyoxylate. However, the feeding of glycine and hydroxyproline increased kidney oxalate, and liver and kidney glyoxylate in vitamin B6-deficient rats.", "PMID": 430210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_345", "title": "Thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase activity during postnatal growth of the epididymal fat pad.", "content": "Thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities were measured in epididymal adipose tissue from rats of 12 to 182 days of age. Both enzymes showed highest specific activity during the suckling period; by 35 days of age both thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities had decreased to stable lower levels. The activities of the two proliferative enzymes resembled the pattern of [3H]thymidine incorporation into preadipocytes shown by Greenwood and Hirsch (1) and the data support the concept that a pool of preadipocytes develops during the first 4 to 5 weeks postnatally. Further, the thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities were correlated with the rate of DNA accretion in the preadipocyte fraction of the tissue. Since thymidine kinase activity can be measured in 20 to 40 mg of tissue. Since thymidine kinase activity can be measured in 20 to 40 mg of tissue, the technique can be adapted for measurement of enzyme levels in human or animal biopsy samples when radio-isotope studies are not advisable or only small quantities of tissue are available.", "contents": "Thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase activity during postnatal growth of the epididymal fat pad. Thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities were measured in epididymal adipose tissue from rats of 12 to 182 days of age. Both enzymes showed highest specific activity during the suckling period; by 35 days of age both thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities had decreased to stable lower levels. The activities of the two proliferative enzymes resembled the pattern of [3H]thymidine incorporation into preadipocytes shown by Greenwood and Hirsch (1) and the data support the concept that a pool of preadipocytes develops during the first 4 to 5 weeks postnatally. Further, the thymidine kinase and DNA polymerase enzyme activities were correlated with the rate of DNA accretion in the preadipocyte fraction of the tissue. Since thymidine kinase activity can be measured in 20 to 40 mg of tissue. Since thymidine kinase activity can be measured in 20 to 40 mg of tissue, the technique can be adapted for measurement of enzyme levels in human or animal biopsy samples when radio-isotope studies are not advisable or only small quantities of tissue are available.", "PMID": 430214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_346", "title": "Studies on the ameliorating effect of ascorbic acid on mineral toxicities in the chick.", "content": "The effect of dietary ascorbic acid on the toxicity of high levels of cobalt, selenium, vanadium, cadmium, copper, and mercury was determined in chicks. The vitamin reduced the growth retardation caused by cobalt, selenium, vanadium, and cadmium administration but had no such effect on copper and mercury toxicity at the levels used. The effect of ascorbic acid on growth could not be mimicked by ferrous iron administration. Ascorbic acid did not alleviate the increased susceptibility of chicks to Salmonella gallinarum caused by feeding high levels of these elements.", "contents": "Studies on the ameliorating effect of ascorbic acid on mineral toxicities in the chick. The effect of dietary ascorbic acid on the toxicity of high levels of cobalt, selenium, vanadium, cadmium, copper, and mercury was determined in chicks. The vitamin reduced the growth retardation caused by cobalt, selenium, vanadium, and cadmium administration but had no such effect on copper and mercury toxicity at the levels used. The effect of ascorbic acid on growth could not be mimicked by ferrous iron administration. Ascorbic acid did not alleviate the increased susceptibility of chicks to Salmonella gallinarum caused by feeding high levels of these elements.", "PMID": 430217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_347", "title": "Protein evaluation in growing rats of breast milk and breast milk substitutes with special reference to the content of non-protein nitrogen.", "content": "The levels of individual proteins and other nitrogen containing substances differ considerably between cow's milk and human milk. Therefore, during manufacture of infant formulas, attempts are made to simulate the protein composition of human milk. However, the composition and nutritional characteristics of human milk protein are incompletely known. In this paper, the protein quality of breast milk protein with and without the non-protein-nitrogen (NPN) substances present in human milk was studied with growing rats and compared to two formulas, one \"adapted\" commercial infant formula and a suggested further modified, possibly improved, infant formula. Detailed examinations of protein and amino acid composition of the test diets are given. Breast milk protein with added NPN substances showed a lower protein quality than all other test proteins. Breast milk protein without NPN substances and the protein of the suggested infant formula were of similar quality while the protein of the commercial adapted formula was significantly better than all other test proteins. The use of rat growth assays in the evaluation of protein quality of infant formulas is discussed.", "contents": "Protein evaluation in growing rats of breast milk and breast milk substitutes with special reference to the content of non-protein nitrogen. The levels of individual proteins and other nitrogen containing substances differ considerably between cow's milk and human milk. Therefore, during manufacture of infant formulas, attempts are made to simulate the protein composition of human milk. However, the composition and nutritional characteristics of human milk protein are incompletely known. In this paper, the protein quality of breast milk protein with and without the non-protein-nitrogen (NPN) substances present in human milk was studied with growing rats and compared to two formulas, one \"adapted\" commercial infant formula and a suggested further modified, possibly improved, infant formula. Detailed examinations of protein and amino acid composition of the test diets are given. Breast milk protein with added NPN substances showed a lower protein quality than all other test proteins. Breast milk protein without NPN substances and the protein of the suggested infant formula were of similar quality while the protein of the commercial adapted formula was significantly better than all other test proteins. The use of rat growth assays in the evaluation of protein quality of infant formulas is discussed.", "PMID": 430220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_348", "title": "Lipid composition of liver plasma membranes isolated from rats fed a high glucose or a high fat diet.", "content": "Several plasma membrane associated functions have been shown to differ in rats fed a high lard, carbohydrate free diet (L rats) from those observed in preparations from rats fed a high glucose, fat free diet (G rats). To explore the possibility that differences in the lipid components of the plasma membranes might contribute to these functional changes, groups of rats were fed each diet for 5 days and the lipids of their plasma membranes were separated and analyzed. The major differences found were a greater cholesterol content in the plasma membranes from L rats compared to those of G rats (12.2 +/- 2.20 versus 7.8 +/- 1.40 mg/100 mg membrane protein) and more than twice as much phosphatidyl serine and phosphadidyl inositol in the plasma membranes of the former group. Of several variations in fatty acid distribution found in the phospholipid and neutral lipid fractions, the most notable quantitatively were an increase in phospholipid oleic acid (18:1) and a decrease in phospholipid stearic acid (18:0) in L rat plasma membranes. Whether these changes are related to altered membrane function is not known.", "contents": "Lipid composition of liver plasma membranes isolated from rats fed a high glucose or a high fat diet. Several plasma membrane associated functions have been shown to differ in rats fed a high lard, carbohydrate free diet (L rats) from those observed in preparations from rats fed a high glucose, fat free diet (G rats). To explore the possibility that differences in the lipid components of the plasma membranes might contribute to these functional changes, groups of rats were fed each diet for 5 days and the lipids of their plasma membranes were separated and analyzed. The major differences found were a greater cholesterol content in the plasma membranes from L rats compared to those of G rats (12.2 +/- 2.20 versus 7.8 +/- 1.40 mg/100 mg membrane protein) and more than twice as much phosphatidyl serine and phosphadidyl inositol in the plasma membranes of the former group. Of several variations in fatty acid distribution found in the phospholipid and neutral lipid fractions, the most notable quantitatively were an increase in phospholipid oleic acid (18:1) and a decrease in phospholipid stearic acid (18:0) in L rat plasma membranes. Whether these changes are related to altered membrane function is not known.", "PMID": 430221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_349", "title": "Growth, lipid metabolism and pathology of two strains of rats fed high fat diets.", "content": "Studies were carried out on Sprague-Dawley (SD) and Chester Beatty (CB) rats to determine whether the difference in incidence of myocardial lesions can be related to dietary factors and parameters known to be affected in SD rats fed rapeseed oils. The two strains of young, male rats were fed diets which contained 20% by weight of either corn, LEAR (low erucic acid) or HEAR (high erucic acid rapeseed) oils for a period of up to 16 weeks. A significantly lower incidence of focal myocardial necrosis was observed in CB rats than in SD rats. The incidence of this heart lesion in CB rats was similar between all diets; in SD rats a higher incidence was observed in the groups fed rapeseed oils. In both strains the growth rates of rats fed LEAR and corn oils were similar; growth rates with HEAR oil diets were much lower than the other oils. Severe myocardial lipidosis was only evident in rats fed HEAR oil, but no strain differences were observed. The pattern and extent of lipidosis, including cardiac and hepatic lipid levels and fatty acid compositions, were similar in both strains at the time periods studied. Cardiac triglycerides and free fatty acids increased in rats fed HEAR oil, but no strain differences were evident. Strain differences were found in the levels of a few cardiac phospholipids of rats fed HEAR oil, however, the relative fatty acid compositions of each phospholipid were remarkably similar. Microscopic examination of the livers showed no evidence that feeding rapeseed oil caused any specific effect which could be related to differences in heart lesion response. There was no evidence to indicate that differences in heart lesion response between the two rat strains could be related to cardiac triglycerides, free fatty acids or phospholipids.", "contents": "Growth, lipid metabolism and pathology of two strains of rats fed high fat diets. Studies were carried out on Sprague-Dawley (SD) and Chester Beatty (CB) rats to determine whether the difference in incidence of myocardial lesions can be related to dietary factors and parameters known to be affected in SD rats fed rapeseed oils. The two strains of young, male rats were fed diets which contained 20% by weight of either corn, LEAR (low erucic acid) or HEAR (high erucic acid rapeseed) oils for a period of up to 16 weeks. A significantly lower incidence of focal myocardial necrosis was observed in CB rats than in SD rats. The incidence of this heart lesion in CB rats was similar between all diets; in SD rats a higher incidence was observed in the groups fed rapeseed oils. In both strains the growth rates of rats fed LEAR and corn oils were similar; growth rates with HEAR oil diets were much lower than the other oils. Severe myocardial lipidosis was only evident in rats fed HEAR oil, but no strain differences were observed. The pattern and extent of lipidosis, including cardiac and hepatic lipid levels and fatty acid compositions, were similar in both strains at the time periods studied. Cardiac triglycerides and free fatty acids increased in rats fed HEAR oil, but no strain differences were evident. Strain differences were found in the levels of a few cardiac phospholipids of rats fed HEAR oil, however, the relative fatty acid compositions of each phospholipid were remarkably similar. Microscopic examination of the livers showed no evidence that feeding rapeseed oil caused any specific effect which could be related to differences in heart lesion response. There was no evidence to indicate that differences in heart lesion response between the two rat strains could be related to cardiac triglycerides, free fatty acids or phospholipids.", "PMID": 430222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_350", "title": "Studies on the control of lipogenesis: strain differences in hepatic metabolism.", "content": "Detailed studies of hepatic metabolism of lipemic BHE and nonlipemic Wistar rats were conducted. Hepatic lipogenic capacity was varied through the use of starvation or meal feeding. Livers were clamped in precooled copper plates and used for the assay of glycolytic, gluconeogenic, and lipogenic metabolites. Redox and phosphorylation states were calculated. Mitochondrial metabolism was evaluated through studies of the oxygen consumption of isolated mitochondria and through the study of the activities of the alpha-glycerophosphate and malate aspartate shuttles and ATPase. BHE rats have higher phosphorylation states, higher redox ratios, and lower shuttle activities and oxygen consumption by isolated mitochondria than their Wistar cohorts. The differences in oxidative phosphorylation, redox and phosphorylation states, and in the various shuttle activities suggest that BHE liver cells are geared towards lipogenesis at the expense of oxidative phosphorylation. It appears that the activity of the shuttles is controlled in part by phosphorylation state which in turn appears to affect respiration. We theorize from these data that genetically determined differences in the structure and function of the mitochondrial membrane (and perhaps the cell membrane as well) may affect the communication (via metabolites and adenine nucleotides) between the cytosol and mitochondria. Subtle differences in the exchange of metabolites and/or adenine nucleotides across the mitochondrial membrane could thus explain the lipogenic tendency of the liver of the BHE rat and the subsequent development of maturity onset hyperlipemia and hyperglycemia in this strain of rat.", "contents": "Studies on the control of lipogenesis: strain differences in hepatic metabolism. Detailed studies of hepatic metabolism of lipemic BHE and nonlipemic Wistar rats were conducted. Hepatic lipogenic capacity was varied through the use of starvation or meal feeding. Livers were clamped in precooled copper plates and used for the assay of glycolytic, gluconeogenic, and lipogenic metabolites. Redox and phosphorylation states were calculated. Mitochondrial metabolism was evaluated through studies of the oxygen consumption of isolated mitochondria and through the study of the activities of the alpha-glycerophosphate and malate aspartate shuttles and ATPase. BHE rats have higher phosphorylation states, higher redox ratios, and lower shuttle activities and oxygen consumption by isolated mitochondria than their Wistar cohorts. The differences in oxidative phosphorylation, redox and phosphorylation states, and in the various shuttle activities suggest that BHE liver cells are geared towards lipogenesis at the expense of oxidative phosphorylation. It appears that the activity of the shuttles is controlled in part by phosphorylation state which in turn appears to affect respiration. We theorize from these data that genetically determined differences in the structure and function of the mitochondrial membrane (and perhaps the cell membrane as well) may affect the communication (via metabolites and adenine nucleotides) between the cytosol and mitochondria. Subtle differences in the exchange of metabolites and/or adenine nucleotides across the mitochondrial membrane could thus explain the lipogenic tendency of the liver of the BHE rat and the subsequent development of maturity onset hyperlipemia and hyperglycemia in this strain of rat.", "PMID": 430226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_351", "title": "Effects of age, strain, and dietary carbohydrate on the hepatic metabolism of male rats.", "content": "The effects of age and the duration of feeding either a 65% sucrose or a 65% starch diet to normolipemic Wistar and potentially hyperlipemic-hyperglycemic BHE male rats on hepatic metabolite levels, calculated redox and phosphorylation states were studied. Consistent with previous reports, the feeding of sucrose to BHE rats hastened the appearance of hyperlipemia while having little effect in Wistar rats. The changes in hepatic metabolites were consistent with an increased hepatic lipogenesis in BHE rats. The results suggest that the effects of feeding sucrose to BHE rats potentiate the genetically increased hepatic lipogenesis in these rats.", "contents": "Effects of age, strain, and dietary carbohydrate on the hepatic metabolism of male rats. The effects of age and the duration of feeding either a 65% sucrose or a 65% starch diet to normolipemic Wistar and potentially hyperlipemic-hyperglycemic BHE male rats on hepatic metabolite levels, calculated redox and phosphorylation states were studied. Consistent with previous reports, the feeding of sucrose to BHE rats hastened the appearance of hyperlipemia while having little effect in Wistar rats. The changes in hepatic metabolites were consistent with an increased hepatic lipogenesis in BHE rats. The results suggest that the effects of feeding sucrose to BHE rats potentiate the genetically increased hepatic lipogenesis in these rats.", "PMID": 430227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_352", "title": "Effect of sex on the strain differences in hepatic metabolism of starved and nonstarved rats.", "content": "The hepatic metabolism of starved and nonstarved male and female rats from the Wistar and BHE (line 4) strains has been studied. Liver tissue was frozen between precooled copper plates and the levels of various metabolites of the glycolytic and citric acid cycle and adenine nucleotides determined. While the major differences in hepatic metabolism were attributable to the strain of animal, sex effects were also observed. These results suggest that differences in compartmental phosphorylation states may be indicative of a greater lipogenic capacity of these rats compared to normal rats.", "contents": "Effect of sex on the strain differences in hepatic metabolism of starved and nonstarved rats. The hepatic metabolism of starved and nonstarved male and female rats from the Wistar and BHE (line 4) strains has been studied. Liver tissue was frozen between precooled copper plates and the levels of various metabolites of the glycolytic and citric acid cycle and adenine nucleotides determined. While the major differences in hepatic metabolism were attributable to the strain of animal, sex effects were also observed. These results suggest that differences in compartmental phosphorylation states may be indicative of a greater lipogenic capacity of these rats compared to normal rats.", "PMID": 430228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_353", "title": "Diet and glucose induced changes in rat duodenal and pancreatic serotonin and plasma glucose levels.", "content": "Serotonin concentrations in the duodenum and pancreas of rats fed 9, 22 (control), and 45% protein diets for 21 days were analyzed 15 minutes before (fasting levels) and 45 minutes after an oral glucose load. Fasting levels of serotonin were significantly higher in the duodenum of rats consuming the low and high protein diets. Plasma glucose levels were significantly higher in fasted rats receiving the low protein diet. Glucose load caused a significant decrease in duodenal concentration of serotonin and an increase in pancreatic serotonin among rats fed all three diets. The results suggest that duodenal serotonin levels change in response to diet composition whereas pancreatic serotonin is altered by glucose load.", "contents": "Diet and glucose induced changes in rat duodenal and pancreatic serotonin and plasma glucose levels. Serotonin concentrations in the duodenum and pancreas of rats fed 9, 22 (control), and 45% protein diets for 21 days were analyzed 15 minutes before (fasting levels) and 45 minutes after an oral glucose load. Fasting levels of serotonin were significantly higher in the duodenum of rats consuming the low and high protein diets. Plasma glucose levels were significantly higher in fasted rats receiving the low protein diet. Glucose load caused a significant decrease in duodenal concentration of serotonin and an increase in pancreatic serotonin among rats fed all three diets. The results suggest that duodenal serotonin levels change in response to diet composition whereas pancreatic serotonin is altered by glucose load.", "PMID": 430231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_354", "title": "Induction of threonine imbalance by dispensable amino acids: relation to competition for amino acid transport into brain.", "content": "The ability of low protein diets containing small neutral, dispensable amino acids to induce threonine imbalance has been examined. Diets containing amino acids which compete for threonine transport in vitro (serine, alanine, alpha-amino-n-butyrate) caused depressions of growth and food intake which could be corrected to varying degrees by adding threonine to the diet. Large neutral, indispensable amino acids, moderately inhibitory of threonine transport, also induced the imbalance. Some amino acids that had little or no effect on threonine transport in vitro (acidic amino acids and proline) did not cause growth and food intake depressions. Other non-inhibitory amino acids (arginine and lysine) caused growth depressions which were not satisfactorily corrected by additional threonine alone, but were prevented by supplements of all the indispensable amino acids including threonine. Ornithine which was also not inhibitory of threonine transport was an exception. It induced a moderate growth depression which was corrected by additional threonine. Similar studies showed that histidine or tryptophan imbalance could be induced by feeding diets containing only those large neutral amino acids which compete for histidine or tryptophan transport in vitro. These experiments show that, based on the results of transport competition experiments, it is generally possible to devise amino acid supplements which can induce a dietary imbalance of a given amino acid.", "contents": "Induction of threonine imbalance by dispensable amino acids: relation to competition for amino acid transport into brain. The ability of low protein diets containing small neutral, dispensable amino acids to induce threonine imbalance has been examined. Diets containing amino acids which compete for threonine transport in vitro (serine, alanine, alpha-amino-n-butyrate) caused depressions of growth and food intake which could be corrected to varying degrees by adding threonine to the diet. Large neutral, indispensable amino acids, moderately inhibitory of threonine transport, also induced the imbalance. Some amino acids that had little or no effect on threonine transport in vitro (acidic amino acids and proline) did not cause growth and food intake depressions. Other non-inhibitory amino acids (arginine and lysine) caused growth depressions which were not satisfactorily corrected by additional threonine alone, but were prevented by supplements of all the indispensable amino acids including threonine. Ornithine which was also not inhibitory of threonine transport was an exception. It induced a moderate growth depression which was corrected by additional threonine. Similar studies showed that histidine or tryptophan imbalance could be induced by feeding diets containing only those large neutral amino acids which compete for histidine or tryptophan transport in vitro. These experiments show that, based on the results of transport competition experiments, it is generally possible to devise amino acid supplements which can induce a dietary imbalance of a given amino acid.", "PMID": 430232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_355", "title": "Response of submandibular gland of the rat to nutritional zinc deficiency.", "content": "Studies in several laboratories have shown that nutritional Zn deficiency in the rat causes a reduction in the activity of certain Zn-dependent enzymes in kidney, intestine, pancreas, etc. The present report deals with the effects of Zn-deficiency on submandibular gland of the rat. For the sake of comparison with previous studies, some assays on pancreas were included. Protein content, DNA, acid phosphatase, and acid protease activities were not affected in submandibular gland. Lactate dehydrogenase was unaffected in submandibular gland and showed increased activity in pancreas. Malate dehydrogenase was significantly decreased in both organs, the decrease being more marked in submandibular gland. Alkaline phosphatase activity in submandibular glands of control rats was about 10-fold higher than in pancreas. In the zinc-deficient rats, alkaline phosphatase was reduced to 59% of controls in the submandibular glands and to about 75% in pancreas. It is known from histochemical studies that in the submandibular gland this enzyme is confined to the myoepithelial cells. Recent studies attribute to salivary glands a role in the etiology of taste disturbances seen in clinical states of zinc deficiency. It is proposed that functional impairment of the myoepithelial cells might contribute to the disturbance of taste.", "contents": "Response of submandibular gland of the rat to nutritional zinc deficiency. Studies in several laboratories have shown that nutritional Zn deficiency in the rat causes a reduction in the activity of certain Zn-dependent enzymes in kidney, intestine, pancreas, etc. The present report deals with the effects of Zn-deficiency on submandibular gland of the rat. For the sake of comparison with previous studies, some assays on pancreas were included. Protein content, DNA, acid phosphatase, and acid protease activities were not affected in submandibular gland. Lactate dehydrogenase was unaffected in submandibular gland and showed increased activity in pancreas. Malate dehydrogenase was significantly decreased in both organs, the decrease being more marked in submandibular gland. Alkaline phosphatase activity in submandibular glands of control rats was about 10-fold higher than in pancreas. In the zinc-deficient rats, alkaline phosphatase was reduced to 59% of controls in the submandibular glands and to about 75% in pancreas. It is known from histochemical studies that in the submandibular gland this enzyme is confined to the myoepithelial cells. Recent studies attribute to salivary glands a role in the etiology of taste disturbances seen in clinical states of zinc deficiency. It is proposed that functional impairment of the myoepithelial cells might contribute to the disturbance of taste.", "PMID": 430233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_356", "title": "Effect of vitamin B-6 deficiency on preference for several taste solutions in the rat.", "content": "The effect of dietary-induced vitamin B-6 (B-6) deficiency on the intake of the taste solutions, sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium saccharin (NaSacc), quinine sulfate (QS), and hydrochloric acid (HCl) was studied using a 48 hour, two-bottle choice technique. The B-6 deficient group demonstrated increased preference to 1.5 X 10(-1) and 3.0 X 10(-1) M NaCl compared to control ad libitum fed and control pair-fed groups. Total fluid intake on NaCl test days was also elevated in the B-6 deficient rats. There was no significant difference in the mean preference to NaSacc, QS, or HCl among the three groups. Adrenal hypertrophy was observed in the deficient rats. There was no change in the plasma level of Na and Zn but there was a reduction in urinary Na excretion. When the deficient rats were replenished by intraperitoneal injection of pyridoxine.HCl and feeding with the control diet containing adequate B-6, the increased preference for NaCl was extinguished, suggesting that the preference alteration was reversible. Urinary Na excretion also returned to normal.", "contents": "Effect of vitamin B-6 deficiency on preference for several taste solutions in the rat. The effect of dietary-induced vitamin B-6 (B-6) deficiency on the intake of the taste solutions, sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium saccharin (NaSacc), quinine sulfate (QS), and hydrochloric acid (HCl) was studied using a 48 hour, two-bottle choice technique. The B-6 deficient group demonstrated increased preference to 1.5 X 10(-1) and 3.0 X 10(-1) M NaCl compared to control ad libitum fed and control pair-fed groups. Total fluid intake on NaCl test days was also elevated in the B-6 deficient rats. There was no significant difference in the mean preference to NaSacc, QS, or HCl among the three groups. Adrenal hypertrophy was observed in the deficient rats. There was no change in the plasma level of Na and Zn but there was a reduction in urinary Na excretion. When the deficient rats were replenished by intraperitoneal injection of pyridoxine.HCl and feeding with the control diet containing adequate B-6, the increased preference for NaCl was extinguished, suggesting that the preference alteration was reversible. Urinary Na excretion also returned to normal.", "PMID": 430235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_357", "title": "Nitrogen balance studies in humans: long-term effect of high nitrogen intake on nitrogen accretion.", "content": "Six healthy young adult male participants were confined to a metabolic ward for 105 days. Two nutritionally adequate purified diets providing 12 and 36 g of nitrogen per day were randomized in two metabolic periods of approximately 50 days each. The objective of this study was to verify whether or not positive nitrogen balance is a concomitant of increased nitrogen intake under the most rigorously controlled conditions, and if so, whether adaptation could occur if the experiment was conducted for sufficiently long periods of time. The mean nitrogen balance was slightly negative for most participants when fed the 12 g N diet. However, individual variability was so large that statistically all the participants can be considered in balance. In view of this, we agree with other investigators who have suggested that balance should be considered as an area which takes into account variabilities such as intake, output and biological factors. On the 36 g N diet, all the participants exhibited strong positive balances, about 1.6 g/day, which were not as high as reported by other investigators but which persisted for as long as they were fed this diet. This positive balance could not seem to be explained on the basis of methodological errors or to any unmeasured nitrogen losses. There was no significant trend towards adaptation as claimed.", "contents": "Nitrogen balance studies in humans: long-term effect of high nitrogen intake on nitrogen accretion. Six healthy young adult male participants were confined to a metabolic ward for 105 days. Two nutritionally adequate purified diets providing 12 and 36 g of nitrogen per day were randomized in two metabolic periods of approximately 50 days each. The objective of this study was to verify whether or not positive nitrogen balance is a concomitant of increased nitrogen intake under the most rigorously controlled conditions, and if so, whether adaptation could occur if the experiment was conducted for sufficiently long periods of time. The mean nitrogen balance was slightly negative for most participants when fed the 12 g N diet. However, individual variability was so large that statistically all the participants can be considered in balance. In view of this, we agree with other investigators who have suggested that balance should be considered as an area which takes into account variabilities such as intake, output and biological factors. On the 36 g N diet, all the participants exhibited strong positive balances, about 1.6 g/day, which were not as high as reported by other investigators but which persisted for as long as they were fed this diet. This positive balance could not seem to be explained on the basis of methodological errors or to any unmeasured nitrogen losses. There was no significant trend towards adaptation as claimed.", "PMID": 430238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_358", "title": "Effects of high and low erucic acid rapeseed oils on energy metabolism and mitochondrial function of the chick.", "content": "Duplicate experiments were conducted to compare energy utilization, growth, cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphoryl,tion, and mitochondrial membrane fatty acid composition of chicks fed diets containing 20 parts of high erucic acid rapeseed oil (HER), low erucic acid rapeseed oil (LER) or sunflower seed oil (SFO) for 24 days. Chicks fed diets containing HER deposited less fat and utilized energy less efficiently (kcal gained/kcal consumed) than chicks fed diets containing either LER or SFO. Energetic efficiency and fat deposition of chicks pair-fed diets containing LER were significantly lower than for chicks fed diets containing SFO. Cardiac mitochondria isolated from chicks fed diets containing either HER or LER for 24 days had significantly reduced ADP/O ratios and reduced rates of ATP synthesis utilizing pyruvate and malate as the respiratory substrates when compared with mitochondria isolated from chicks fed SFO. Diet induced transitions in fatty acid composition of cardiac mitochondrial membranes were also observed. The composition of fat ingested affected the fatty acid composition of mitochondrial diphosphatidyl glycerol more than the fatty acid composition of phosphatidyl choline or phosphatidyl ethanolamine. The linoleic acid content of mitochondrial diphosphatidyl glycerol was lower and the gadoleic acid and erucic acid content higher for chicks fed diets containing rapeseed oils than for chicks fed SFO containing diets. These studies indicate that a complex dynamic mechanism exists associating dietary fat with mitochondrial structural-functional changes and energetic efficiency in the growing chick.", "contents": "Effects of high and low erucic acid rapeseed oils on energy metabolism and mitochondrial function of the chick. Duplicate experiments were conducted to compare energy utilization, growth, cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphoryl,tion, and mitochondrial membrane fatty acid composition of chicks fed diets containing 20 parts of high erucic acid rapeseed oil (HER), low erucic acid rapeseed oil (LER) or sunflower seed oil (SFO) for 24 days. Chicks fed diets containing HER deposited less fat and utilized energy less efficiently (kcal gained/kcal consumed) than chicks fed diets containing either LER or SFO. Energetic efficiency and fat deposition of chicks pair-fed diets containing LER were significantly lower than for chicks fed diets containing SFO. Cardiac mitochondria isolated from chicks fed diets containing either HER or LER for 24 days had significantly reduced ADP/O ratios and reduced rates of ATP synthesis utilizing pyruvate and malate as the respiratory substrates when compared with mitochondria isolated from chicks fed SFO. Diet induced transitions in fatty acid composition of cardiac mitochondrial membranes were also observed. The composition of fat ingested affected the fatty acid composition of mitochondrial diphosphatidyl glycerol more than the fatty acid composition of phosphatidyl choline or phosphatidyl ethanolamine. The linoleic acid content of mitochondrial diphosphatidyl glycerol was lower and the gadoleic acid and erucic acid content higher for chicks fed diets containing rapeseed oils than for chicks fed SFO containing diets. These studies indicate that a complex dynamic mechanism exists associating dietary fat with mitochondrial structural-functional changes and energetic efficiency in the growing chick.", "PMID": 430239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_359", "title": "Correlation between the physical properties of dietary fibers and their protective activity against amaranth toxicity in rats.", "content": "The mechanism(s) by which dietary fiber (DF) exerts beneficial effects on the growth of weanling rats fed toxic doses of amaranth (Food & C Red No. 2) was investigated. When crude DF (GDF) prepared from the roots of edible burdock (Arctium lappa L.) were added at graded levels to a purified basal diet supplemented with amaranth (control), growth was improved with increaseing GDF level up to and above that of the basal diet-fed group. The correlation equation obtained between the dietary percentage level of GDF (X) and the protective activity (Y) expressed as (difference in body weight gains between rats fed test and control diets) X 100/(difference in body weight gains between rats fed basal and control diets) was Y = 32.6 + 86.9 logX (r = 0.98). The comparative activities at the 5% level of various DF prepared from GDF decreased in the order of holocellulose, neutral-detergent fiber, GDF, crude fiber and acid-detergent fiber. Cellulose from cotton fiber had no activity. The activity was intimately related to their water-holding capacity (WHC) and settling volume in water (SV) (f = 0.90 and 0.96, respectively), but not to the capacity to bind amaranth. The correlation showed a saturation phenomenon quite similar to the equation described above in respect of GDF level. At the 10% level, even cellulose which has a low SV, showed protective activity similar to that of 3% GDF. From these and other results, it was concluded that the protective activity of various DF mainly depends on their physical properties such as SV or WHC.", "contents": "Correlation between the physical properties of dietary fibers and their protective activity against amaranth toxicity in rats. The mechanism(s) by which dietary fiber (DF) exerts beneficial effects on the growth of weanling rats fed toxic doses of amaranth (Food & C Red No. 2) was investigated. When crude DF (GDF) prepared from the roots of edible burdock (Arctium lappa L.) were added at graded levels to a purified basal diet supplemented with amaranth (control), growth was improved with increaseing GDF level up to and above that of the basal diet-fed group. The correlation equation obtained between the dietary percentage level of GDF (X) and the protective activity (Y) expressed as (difference in body weight gains between rats fed test and control diets) X 100/(difference in body weight gains between rats fed basal and control diets) was Y = 32.6 + 86.9 logX (r = 0.98). The comparative activities at the 5% level of various DF prepared from GDF decreased in the order of holocellulose, neutral-detergent fiber, GDF, crude fiber and acid-detergent fiber. Cellulose from cotton fiber had no activity. The activity was intimately related to their water-holding capacity (WHC) and settling volume in water (SV) (f = 0.90 and 0.96, respectively), but not to the capacity to bind amaranth. The correlation showed a saturation phenomenon quite similar to the equation described above in respect of GDF level. At the 10% level, even cellulose which has a low SV, showed protective activity similar to that of 3% GDF. From these and other results, it was concluded that the protective activity of various DF mainly depends on their physical properties such as SV or WHC.", "PMID": 430240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_360", "title": "Effect of zinc status on salivary zinc concentrations in the rat.", "content": "Three experiments were done to determine whether salivary zinc concentration is a more sensitive indicator of zinc status than plasma zinc. Weanling male rats fed a low zinc (less than 1 ppm) diet for 5 weeks with or without zinc (100 ppm) in the drinking water had salivary zinc concentration of 0.19, 0.16, and 0.20 microgram/ml for the zinc-deficient, zinc-supplemented restricted-intake, and zinc-supplemented ad libitum-fed groups, respectively. Combined values for male and female rats after 4 weeks of the same treatments in experiment 2 were 0.60, 1.2 and 0.44 microgram/ml. Saliva collected on day 22 of pregnancy contained 0.30 and 0.24 microgram/ml from zinc-supplemented and zinc-deficient rats, respectively. Salivary zinc concentrations in the deficient rats did not differ from those of the zinc-supplemented ad libitum-fed controls in any of the experiments. Salivary zinc concentration in the zinc-supplemented restricted-intake group in experiment 2 was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. Decreases in serum, bone, and fetal zinc concentrations indicated that the rats were definitely zinc-deficient. Since zinc concentration of mixed saliva in the rat was not decreased by even a severe zinc deficiency, salivary zinc does not appear to be as good an indicator of zinc status as plasma zinc.", "contents": "Effect of zinc status on salivary zinc concentrations in the rat. Three experiments were done to determine whether salivary zinc concentration is a more sensitive indicator of zinc status than plasma zinc. Weanling male rats fed a low zinc (less than 1 ppm) diet for 5 weeks with or without zinc (100 ppm) in the drinking water had salivary zinc concentration of 0.19, 0.16, and 0.20 microgram/ml for the zinc-deficient, zinc-supplemented restricted-intake, and zinc-supplemented ad libitum-fed groups, respectively. Combined values for male and female rats after 4 weeks of the same treatments in experiment 2 were 0.60, 1.2 and 0.44 microgram/ml. Saliva collected on day 22 of pregnancy contained 0.30 and 0.24 microgram/ml from zinc-supplemented and zinc-deficient rats, respectively. Salivary zinc concentrations in the deficient rats did not differ from those of the zinc-supplemented ad libitum-fed controls in any of the experiments. Salivary zinc concentration in the zinc-supplemented restricted-intake group in experiment 2 was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. Decreases in serum, bone, and fetal zinc concentrations indicated that the rats were definitely zinc-deficient. Since zinc concentration of mixed saliva in the rat was not decreased by even a severe zinc deficiency, salivary zinc does not appear to be as good an indicator of zinc status as plasma zinc.", "PMID": 430241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_361", "title": "An unrecognized dietary factor for guinea pigs associated with the fibrous fractions of plant products.", "content": "The growth rate of guinea pigs was used to assess the nutritional value of plant materials and to characterize the active component(s). Weanlings were fed for 28 days a purified diet based on soybean protein. Addition of 10 to 20% of wood pulp improved the growth rate beyond that supported by 0 to 5%. Subsequently, the basal diet contained 15% of wood cellulose. Raw cabbage, ad libitum, 5% of wheat straw and 5% of mature alfalfa, collected and dried in the laboratory, increased growth rate significantly. Several other plant products tested were inactive. Holocellulose (2.5%) prepared from alfalfa improved the growth rate while that from cabbage was minimally active. Afalfa holocellulose fractions enriched in hemicellulose and alpha-cellulose were inactive. Lyophilized cabbage and the residue which remained after extraction of frozen raw cabbage with ethyl acetate and acetone stimulated growth when fed at a level of 10%. Treatment of holocellulose with KOH, with pancreatin at pH 8 or with 0.1 m KHCO3 caused loss of activity. Storage of dry alfalfa meal for a period of 1 year resulted in loss of activity. It is concluded that a labile component of alfalfa associated with the fibrous fraction confers unique nutritional value to the fiber. Cabbage also contains a labile growth stimulant which may be associated with the fibrous fraction.", "contents": "An unrecognized dietary factor for guinea pigs associated with the fibrous fractions of plant products. The growth rate of guinea pigs was used to assess the nutritional value of plant materials and to characterize the active component(s). Weanlings were fed for 28 days a purified diet based on soybean protein. Addition of 10 to 20% of wood pulp improved the growth rate beyond that supported by 0 to 5%. Subsequently, the basal diet contained 15% of wood cellulose. Raw cabbage, ad libitum, 5% of wheat straw and 5% of mature alfalfa, collected and dried in the laboratory, increased growth rate significantly. Several other plant products tested were inactive. Holocellulose (2.5%) prepared from alfalfa improved the growth rate while that from cabbage was minimally active. Afalfa holocellulose fractions enriched in hemicellulose and alpha-cellulose were inactive. Lyophilized cabbage and the residue which remained after extraction of frozen raw cabbage with ethyl acetate and acetone stimulated growth when fed at a level of 10%. Treatment of holocellulose with KOH, with pancreatin at pH 8 or with 0.1 m KHCO3 caused loss of activity. Storage of dry alfalfa meal for a period of 1 year resulted in loss of activity. It is concluded that a labile component of alfalfa associated with the fibrous fraction confers unique nutritional value to the fiber. Cabbage also contains a labile growth stimulant which may be associated with the fibrous fraction.", "PMID": 430242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_362", "title": "Growth of body protein, fat, and skeleton in steers fed on three planes of nutrition.", "content": "The growth of body protein, fat, and skeleton of growing steers was determined from published experimental data of steers fed three planes of nutrition. Each animal was partitioned into: 1) metabolically slow tissue which included hide, hooves, horns, skeleton, and fat, and 2) metabolically active tissue (MAT) which were the remaining tissues. MAT grew exponentially in time and approached the same final value for all planes of nutrition; however, growth rates depended on energy intake. The mass of active tissues was described by MATkg = 27 + 393 (1 - e-t/tau) where t and tau are in months; tau was 25.8, 46.7, and 57.4 months for the high, medium, and low planes of nutrition, respectively. The finding that MAT retained the same mathematical form but grew more slowly on the lower nutritional planes suggests that changes in energy set the scale of physiological age. Fat deposition was linear with time for all groups, although the rates depended on energy intake. The rates were 8.21, 2.08, and 1.29 kg/month for the high, mediu, and low planes of nutrition, respectively. The results suggest that steers are not programmed to synthesize protein first and then fat only with the remaining energy; rather the level of energy intake and the age determine how the ingested energy is partitioned into protein and fat synthesis.", "contents": "Growth of body protein, fat, and skeleton in steers fed on three planes of nutrition. The growth of body protein, fat, and skeleton of growing steers was determined from published experimental data of steers fed three planes of nutrition. Each animal was partitioned into: 1) metabolically slow tissue which included hide, hooves, horns, skeleton, and fat, and 2) metabolically active tissue (MAT) which were the remaining tissues. MAT grew exponentially in time and approached the same final value for all planes of nutrition; however, growth rates depended on energy intake. The mass of active tissues was described by MATkg = 27 + 393 (1 - e-t/tau) where t and tau are in months; tau was 25.8, 46.7, and 57.4 months for the high, medium, and low planes of nutrition, respectively. The finding that MAT retained the same mathematical form but grew more slowly on the lower nutritional planes suggests that changes in energy set the scale of physiological age. Fat deposition was linear with time for all groups, although the rates depended on energy intake. The rates were 8.21, 2.08, and 1.29 kg/month for the high, mediu, and low planes of nutrition, respectively. The results suggest that steers are not programmed to synthesize protein first and then fat only with the remaining energy; rather the level of energy intake and the age determine how the ingested energy is partitioned into protein and fat synthesis.", "PMID": 430243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_363", "title": "Cadmium and the food chain: the effect of dietary cadmium on tissue composition in chicks and laying hens.", "content": "The cadmium content of body tissues and eggs was studied in broiler chicks and laying hens fed diets supplemented with 3, 12, and 48 microgram/g of cadmium. The 48 microgram/g level was selected as a slightly toxic level while the lower levels were felt to be representative of the amounts of cadmium which would occur in feedstuffs due to environmental contamination. All levels of cadmium resulted in increased cadmium content of kidney while only 12 and 48 microgram/g resulted in increases in the cadmium content of liver and muscle. As little as 3 microgram/g cadmium consistently increased the cadmium content of liver and muscle but this did not prove to be statistically significant. The transfer of dietary cadmium to the egg was found to be very low. Only the 48 microgram/g level resulted in an increase in cadmium content of the egg. This dietary treatment also resulted in reduced egg production and egg shell thickness.", "contents": "Cadmium and the food chain: the effect of dietary cadmium on tissue composition in chicks and laying hens. The cadmium content of body tissues and eggs was studied in broiler chicks and laying hens fed diets supplemented with 3, 12, and 48 microgram/g of cadmium. The 48 microgram/g level was selected as a slightly toxic level while the lower levels were felt to be representative of the amounts of cadmium which would occur in feedstuffs due to environmental contamination. All levels of cadmium resulted in increased cadmium content of kidney while only 12 and 48 microgram/g resulted in increases in the cadmium content of liver and muscle. As little as 3 microgram/g cadmium consistently increased the cadmium content of liver and muscle but this did not prove to be statistically significant. The transfer of dietary cadmium to the egg was found to be very low. Only the 48 microgram/g level resulted in an increase in cadmium content of the egg. This dietary treatment also resulted in reduced egg production and egg shell thickness.", "PMID": 430244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_364", "title": "Glutathione peroxidase acitvity in intestinal and liver tissues of rats fed various levels of selenium, sulfur and alpha-tocopherol.", "content": "The effects of various levels of selenium, alpha-tocopherol and sulfur on glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in intestinal and liver tissues were determined in male rats fed corn-soybean or Torula yeast diets. Rats fed corn-soybean diets had greater GSH-Px activity in the small intestine, colon and liver tissues, catalase activity and selenium in the liver, and body weight gains than those fed Torula yeast diets. GSH-Px activity in the small intestine, colon, and liver tissues as well as concentration of selenium in the liver increased with increasing levels of selenium in Torula yeast diets but not with corn-soybean diets. Tocopherol supplementation had no significant effect on GSH-Px activity in rats fed Torula yeast or corn-soybean diets supplemented with selenium. Supplemental sulfur decreased GSH-Px activity in the small intestine tissues and increased activity in colon tissues.", "contents": "Glutathione peroxidase acitvity in intestinal and liver tissues of rats fed various levels of selenium, sulfur and alpha-tocopherol. The effects of various levels of selenium, alpha-tocopherol and sulfur on glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in intestinal and liver tissues were determined in male rats fed corn-soybean or Torula yeast diets. Rats fed corn-soybean diets had greater GSH-Px activity in the small intestine, colon and liver tissues, catalase activity and selenium in the liver, and body weight gains than those fed Torula yeast diets. GSH-Px activity in the small intestine, colon, and liver tissues as well as concentration of selenium in the liver increased with increasing levels of selenium in Torula yeast diets but not with corn-soybean diets. Tocopherol supplementation had no significant effect on GSH-Px activity in rats fed Torula yeast or corn-soybean diets supplemented with selenium. Supplemental sulfur decreased GSH-Px activity in the small intestine tissues and increased activity in colon tissues.", "PMID": 430245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_365", "title": "Preventive effects of phylloquinone on hemorrhagic death induced by butylated hydroxytoluene in male rats.", "content": "The effects of vitamin K on hemorrhagic death induced by dietary butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were studied. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given BHT or two phenolic antioxidants (2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenol and 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone) in combination with a 24% casein basal diet. The levels of the phenols were chosen to nearly equal LD50 (40 days). Hemorrhagic death, hemorrhage and a decrease in prothrombin index caused by 1.20% BHT were prevented by simultaneously adding phylloquinone (0.68 mumole/kg/day). Phylloquinone also inhibited the effect of the related phenolic antioxidants. Ten nanomoles of phylloquinone injected into the femoral vein on day 3 of feeding 1.2% BHT increased the prothrombin concentration from 28% of normal to 100% of normal within 18 to 24 hours. Phylloquinone oxide also prevented hypoprothrombinemia due to BHT. These results suggest that BHT-induced hemorrhagic death may be caused by direct and/or indirect vitamin K deficiency, and its mechanism may be different from those of warfarin.", "contents": "Preventive effects of phylloquinone on hemorrhagic death induced by butylated hydroxytoluene in male rats. The effects of vitamin K on hemorrhagic death induced by dietary butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were studied. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given BHT or two phenolic antioxidants (2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenol and 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone) in combination with a 24% casein basal diet. The levels of the phenols were chosen to nearly equal LD50 (40 days). Hemorrhagic death, hemorrhage and a decrease in prothrombin index caused by 1.20% BHT were prevented by simultaneously adding phylloquinone (0.68 mumole/kg/day). Phylloquinone also inhibited the effect of the related phenolic antioxidants. Ten nanomoles of phylloquinone injected into the femoral vein on day 3 of feeding 1.2% BHT increased the prothrombin concentration from 28% of normal to 100% of normal within 18 to 24 hours. Phylloquinone oxide also prevented hypoprothrombinemia due to BHT. These results suggest that BHT-induced hemorrhagic death may be caused by direct and/or indirect vitamin K deficiency, and its mechanism may be different from those of warfarin.", "PMID": 430246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_366", "title": "The preferential transport of immunoglobulin G by the small intestine of the neonatal piglet.", "content": "Previous work dealing with the acquisition of passive immunity by the neonatal mammal has shown that the piglet is qualitatively nonselective with regard to the transport of macromolecules from the gut to the blood, whereas rats, mice and hamsters transport only immunoglobulin G (IgG) in detectable quantities. The ability of enterocytes of the proximal and distal small intestine of piglets to internalize fluorescent porcine IgG, bovine albumin or a mixture of these two fluorescent proteins was assessed. At the light microscopic level (macropinocytosis) porcine IgG and bovine albumin were internalized with equal facility by these enterocytes. To determine whether piglets preferentially transported porcine IgG versus bovine albumin, other piglets were gavaged with these proteins or these proteins were injected into ligated segments of the proximal or distal small intestine. Enterocytes in the proximal part of the small intestine transported more of these proteins (P less than 0.10) than did those in the distal part. When either bovine albumin or porcine IgG was presented separately to the piglet's gut, both were transported to about the same low level. However, when mixtures of these proteins were presented, IgG was preferentially transported, i.e., albumin enhanced IgG transport. Porcine albumin or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) also enhanced porcine IgG transport. It was proposed that the preferential transport of IgG occurred by a micropinocytotic mechanism (not visible by light microscopy) and that other macromolecules such as albumin and PVP enhanced IgG transport by nonspecifically stimulating micropinocytosis.", "contents": "The preferential transport of immunoglobulin G by the small intestine of the neonatal piglet. Previous work dealing with the acquisition of passive immunity by the neonatal mammal has shown that the piglet is qualitatively nonselective with regard to the transport of macromolecules from the gut to the blood, whereas rats, mice and hamsters transport only immunoglobulin G (IgG) in detectable quantities. The ability of enterocytes of the proximal and distal small intestine of piglets to internalize fluorescent porcine IgG, bovine albumin or a mixture of these two fluorescent proteins was assessed. At the light microscopic level (macropinocytosis) porcine IgG and bovine albumin were internalized with equal facility by these enterocytes. To determine whether piglets preferentially transported porcine IgG versus bovine albumin, other piglets were gavaged with these proteins or these proteins were injected into ligated segments of the proximal or distal small intestine. Enterocytes in the proximal part of the small intestine transported more of these proteins (P less than 0.10) than did those in the distal part. When either bovine albumin or porcine IgG was presented separately to the piglet's gut, both were transported to about the same low level. However, when mixtures of these proteins were presented, IgG was preferentially transported, i.e., albumin enhanced IgG transport. Porcine albumin or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) also enhanced porcine IgG transport. It was proposed that the preferential transport of IgG occurred by a micropinocytotic mechanism (not visible by light microscopy) and that other macromolecules such as albumin and PVP enhanced IgG transport by nonspecifically stimulating micropinocytosis.", "PMID": 430247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_367", "title": "Effect of glucocorticoids and zinc deficiency on femur and liver zinc in rats.", "content": "Male weanling rats were fed diets containing less than 1, 3, 6 oor 13 ppm zinc or stock rat diet for 3 weeks. Each dietary group was subdivided into a control group and a prednisolone-treated group (5 mg pred/kg body weight). Femur and liver zinc contents were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Prednisolone caused growth retardation at all levels of dietary zinc. A marked increase was seen in femur zinc content of prednisolone-treated rats fed zinc-deficient diets. No such increase was seen in rats fed diets adequate in zinc. No significant change was seen in liver zinc content of zinc-deficient rats due to prednisolone. By comparing femur zinc in rats fed zinc-deficient diets with femur zinc in weanling rats, it appears that prednisolone causes an increase in femur zinc in rats fed deficient diets by (a) preventing bone resorption, and (b) increasing femur uptake of dietary zinc. Because the effects of glucocorticoids in rats appear to differ from effects in man, similar studies in other species are recommended.", "contents": "Effect of glucocorticoids and zinc deficiency on femur and liver zinc in rats. Male weanling rats were fed diets containing less than 1, 3, 6 oor 13 ppm zinc or stock rat diet for 3 weeks. Each dietary group was subdivided into a control group and a prednisolone-treated group (5 mg pred/kg body weight). Femur and liver zinc contents were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Prednisolone caused growth retardation at all levels of dietary zinc. A marked increase was seen in femur zinc content of prednisolone-treated rats fed zinc-deficient diets. No such increase was seen in rats fed diets adequate in zinc. No significant change was seen in liver zinc content of zinc-deficient rats due to prednisolone. By comparing femur zinc in rats fed zinc-deficient diets with femur zinc in weanling rats, it appears that prednisolone causes an increase in femur zinc in rats fed deficient diets by (a) preventing bone resorption, and (b) increasing femur uptake of dietary zinc. Because the effects of glucocorticoids in rats appear to differ from effects in man, similar studies in other species are recommended.", "PMID": 430248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_368", "title": "Effect of feeding 1,3-butanediol-1,3-dioctanoate as an energy source for chicks for catch-up growth during recovery from Newcastle disease virus.", "content": "1,3-Butanediol-1,3-dioctanoate (BDDO), a synthetic source of energy, has been shown to be equal to corn oil when fed to chicks recovering from moderate and severe Newcastle disease virus infections. Body weight increments of chicks fed diets containing 10% BDDO were equal to or greater than those of chicks fed 10% corn oil, both with restricted feeding regimens. Kilocalories of metabolizable energy required to produce 100 g of body weight increment over a basal group was used as a means of quantitating energy demand. BDDO was comparable to corn oil as an energy source with no adverse effects. Liver/body weight ratios were greater in the BDDO-fed chicks. Circadian rhythmicity of liver size and liver glycogen content was demonstrated. Chicks fed BDDO had total liver glycogen content threefold that of the corn oil controls, which was attributed to stimulation of insulin secretion. Catch-up growth in the chick following the growth depression of disease appears to be as well facilitated by a synthetic source as by a natural one.", "contents": "Effect of feeding 1,3-butanediol-1,3-dioctanoate as an energy source for chicks for catch-up growth during recovery from Newcastle disease virus. 1,3-Butanediol-1,3-dioctanoate (BDDO), a synthetic source of energy, has been shown to be equal to corn oil when fed to chicks recovering from moderate and severe Newcastle disease virus infections. Body weight increments of chicks fed diets containing 10% BDDO were equal to or greater than those of chicks fed 10% corn oil, both with restricted feeding regimens. Kilocalories of metabolizable energy required to produce 100 g of body weight increment over a basal group was used as a means of quantitating energy demand. BDDO was comparable to corn oil as an energy source with no adverse effects. Liver/body weight ratios were greater in the BDDO-fed chicks. Circadian rhythmicity of liver size and liver glycogen content was demonstrated. Chicks fed BDDO had total liver glycogen content threefold that of the corn oil controls, which was attributed to stimulation of insulin secretion. Catch-up growth in the chick following the growth depression of disease appears to be as well facilitated by a synthetic source as by a natural one.", "PMID": 430249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_369", "title": "Interaction of zinc and essential fatty acids in the rat.", "content": "Three experiments were performed to investigate the possibility of a physiological relationship between zinc and essential fatty acids (EFA). Male weanling rats were fed diets low in zinc, EFA or both and their growth rates, dermal scores and tissue fatty acid profiles determined. In experiment 1, a basal soybean protein diet containing 7 ppm of added zinc and approximately 300 ppm EFA was used in a 2 X 2 factorial design: low Zn-low EFA; adequate Zn-low EFA; low Zn-adequate EFA and adequate Zn-adequate EFA. The low zinc status accentuated signs of EFA deficiency, including dermal lesions and growth rate, but it had no significant effect on the fatty acid profile in plasma. In experiment 2, a basal casein diet containing approximately 25 ppm of EFA and less than 1 ppm of zinc, was used in a similar design. For 7 weeks two groups of weanling rats were fed ad libitum either a diet adequate in Zn and low in EFA or a diet adequate in all nutrients. From 7 to 12 weeks zinc was removed from one-half of each group and all were pair-fed to the intake of the low zinc-low EFA group. Zinc deficiency accentuated dermal lesions in the group deprived of EFA and caused enlarged joints suggestive of an arthritic-like syndrome. In experiment 3, an egg albumin based diet containing approximately 25 ppm EFA and less than 1 ppm of zinc was used in a 2 X 2 factorial design. No signs of fatty acid deficiency occurred in 5 weeks with adequate zinc. Zinc and EFA deficiency accentuated dermal scores and severely depressed growth. Zinc deficiency increased the proportion of arachidonic acid in foot skin especially in the EFA deficient group. It is concluded that there is a physiological interaction between Zn and essential fatty acids.", "contents": "Interaction of zinc and essential fatty acids in the rat. Three experiments were performed to investigate the possibility of a physiological relationship between zinc and essential fatty acids (EFA). Male weanling rats were fed diets low in zinc, EFA or both and their growth rates, dermal scores and tissue fatty acid profiles determined. In experiment 1, a basal soybean protein diet containing 7 ppm of added zinc and approximately 300 ppm EFA was used in a 2 X 2 factorial design: low Zn-low EFA; adequate Zn-low EFA; low Zn-adequate EFA and adequate Zn-adequate EFA. The low zinc status accentuated signs of EFA deficiency, including dermal lesions and growth rate, but it had no significant effect on the fatty acid profile in plasma. In experiment 2, a basal casein diet containing approximately 25 ppm of EFA and less than 1 ppm of zinc, was used in a similar design. For 7 weeks two groups of weanling rats were fed ad libitum either a diet adequate in Zn and low in EFA or a diet adequate in all nutrients. From 7 to 12 weeks zinc was removed from one-half of each group and all were pair-fed to the intake of the low zinc-low EFA group. Zinc deficiency accentuated dermal lesions in the group deprived of EFA and caused enlarged joints suggestive of an arthritic-like syndrome. In experiment 3, an egg albumin based diet containing approximately 25 ppm EFA and less than 1 ppm of zinc was used in a 2 X 2 factorial design. No signs of fatty acid deficiency occurred in 5 weeks with adequate zinc. Zinc and EFA deficiency accentuated dermal scores and severely depressed growth. Zinc deficiency increased the proportion of arachidonic acid in foot skin especially in the EFA deficient group. It is concluded that there is a physiological interaction between Zn and essential fatty acids.", "PMID": 430250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_370", "title": "Inhibitory effect of dietary arginine on growth of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in mice.", "content": "The effect of dietary L-arginine on the growth and development of transplantable Ehrlich Ascites tumor cells was examined. Growth of tumor bearing mice was significantly inhibited by feeding a purified casein diet supplemented with 5% arginine. This diet significantly reduced the total number of free tumor cells growing in the peritoneal cavity of mice. Total free tumor cell RNA, DNA, and protein were also significantly reduced. Supplemental arginine approximately doubled the length of time for 50% death of tumor bearing mice. Arginine did not alter respiration as measured by glucose or citrate oxidation. Varying the concentration of supplemental dietary arginine revealed that 3% arginine also significantly retarded the growth of Ehrlich Ascites Tumor Cells. Tumor ornithine decarboxylase activities were significantly reduced by dietary arginine supplementation. Supplemental dietary arginine at 3 or 5% did not significantly affect the growth of non-tumor bearing mice. Dietary arginine may play a critical role in growth of normal as well as neoplastic tissue.", "contents": "Inhibitory effect of dietary arginine on growth of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in mice. The effect of dietary L-arginine on the growth and development of transplantable Ehrlich Ascites tumor cells was examined. Growth of tumor bearing mice was significantly inhibited by feeding a purified casein diet supplemented with 5% arginine. This diet significantly reduced the total number of free tumor cells growing in the peritoneal cavity of mice. Total free tumor cell RNA, DNA, and protein were also significantly reduced. Supplemental arginine approximately doubled the length of time for 50% death of tumor bearing mice. Arginine did not alter respiration as measured by glucose or citrate oxidation. Varying the concentration of supplemental dietary arginine revealed that 3% arginine also significantly retarded the growth of Ehrlich Ascites Tumor Cells. Tumor ornithine decarboxylase activities were significantly reduced by dietary arginine supplementation. Supplemental dietary arginine at 3 or 5% did not significantly affect the growth of non-tumor bearing mice. Dietary arginine may play a critical role in growth of normal as well as neoplastic tissue.", "PMID": 430251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_371", "title": "Body weight and depot fat changes as influenced by exercise and dietary fat sources in adult BHE rats.", "content": "Adult male BHE rats were fed diets containing 15% of either corn oil (CO) or medium chain triglycerides (MCT) as the dietary source of fat. Further, rats were allowed to remain sedentary or were forced to exercise by swimming for 1 hour daily, for 3 weeks, followed by swimming for 2 hours daily for 3 weeks. The exercise for 3 weeks caused significant reductions in average body weight gains. After 6 weeks of exercise the lipid content of the adipose cells was reduced by about 50%. Fat cell numbers were not changed by either fat source or exercise, but fat cell size was significantly reduced after swimming daily for 6 weeks.", "contents": "Body weight and depot fat changes as influenced by exercise and dietary fat sources in adult BHE rats. Adult male BHE rats were fed diets containing 15% of either corn oil (CO) or medium chain triglycerides (MCT) as the dietary source of fat. Further, rats were allowed to remain sedentary or were forced to exercise by swimming for 1 hour daily, for 3 weeks, followed by swimming for 2 hours daily for 3 weeks. The exercise for 3 weeks caused significant reductions in average body weight gains. After 6 weeks of exercise the lipid content of the adipose cells was reduced by about 50%. Fat cell numbers were not changed by either fat source or exercise, but fat cell size was significantly reduced after swimming daily for 6 weeks.", "PMID": 430252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_372", "title": "The effect of dietary protein levels on mineral toxicity in chicks.", "content": "Studies have been conducted to determine the influence of dietary protein levels of 10, 20, and 30% fed as soybean meal on the toxicity of selenium, cadmium, vanadium, cobalt, and nickel to chicks. The toxicity was evaluated in terms of growth retardation and a decrease in resistance to S. gallinarum infection as measured by mortality. The toxicity of selenium or cadmium was unaffected by the protein level of the diet while the toxicity of vanadium, cobalt and nickel was decreased by increased dietary protein as measured by the interactions on growth. The interactions apparent on growth were not as apparent on resistance to infection indicating that the latter parameter is much less sensitive to these dietary manipulations than is growth.", "contents": "The effect of dietary protein levels on mineral toxicity in chicks. Studies have been conducted to determine the influence of dietary protein levels of 10, 20, and 30% fed as soybean meal on the toxicity of selenium, cadmium, vanadium, cobalt, and nickel to chicks. The toxicity was evaluated in terms of growth retardation and a decrease in resistance to S. gallinarum infection as measured by mortality. The toxicity of selenium or cadmium was unaffected by the protein level of the diet while the toxicity of vanadium, cobalt and nickel was decreased by increased dietary protein as measured by the interactions on growth. The interactions apparent on growth were not as apparent on resistance to infection indicating that the latter parameter is much less sensitive to these dietary manipulations than is growth.", "PMID": 430253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_373", "title": "Effect of lactose on duodenal calcium-binding protein and calcium absorption.", "content": "Rats were fed a purified diet containing 30% lactose and calcium absorption was measured in duodenal loops in situ following instillation of 1.25 or 10 mM CaCl2 solutions. Lactose feeding caused absorption to be depressed from 88 to 69% (1.25 mM Ca solution) and from 71 to 43% (10 mM Ca solution). The effect of lactose feeding was more pronounced in 5-month old rats than in 2-month old rats. In the lactose-fed rats, calcium-binding protein (CaBP), measured by a competitive binding assay following partial purification, was depressed on the average from 24 to 10 nmoles Ca bound per mg protein. The effect of the lactose ingestion can be likened to the effect expected from continued high calcium intake, i.e., a decrease in the efficiency of calcium absorption and a decrease in CaBP.", "contents": "Effect of lactose on duodenal calcium-binding protein and calcium absorption. Rats were fed a purified diet containing 30% lactose and calcium absorption was measured in duodenal loops in situ following instillation of 1.25 or 10 mM CaCl2 solutions. Lactose feeding caused absorption to be depressed from 88 to 69% (1.25 mM Ca solution) and from 71 to 43% (10 mM Ca solution). The effect of lactose feeding was more pronounced in 5-month old rats than in 2-month old rats. In the lactose-fed rats, calcium-binding protein (CaBP), measured by a competitive binding assay following partial purification, was depressed on the average from 24 to 10 nmoles Ca bound per mg protein. The effect of the lactose ingestion can be likened to the effect expected from continued high calcium intake, i.e., a decrease in the efficiency of calcium absorption and a decrease in CaBP.", "PMID": 430254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_374", "title": "A chick assay for determination of available iron from biological material and its application to fish protein concentrates.", "content": "A dose response assay for the assessment of available iron in biological materials using chicks as experimental animals is described. Day-old chicks were fed on an iron-deficient diet for 2 to 3 weeks at which time the hematocrit had decreased to about 20%. After this depletion period, the standard groups were fed graded levels of iron sulphate up to a maximum level of 30 ppm iron. The test groups were fed two levels of biological material giving a total dietary iron concentration within the standard range. The response was measured by hemoglobin concentration (g/100 ml), and the dose by the consumption of iron per gram of body weight gain. Contents of available iron (relative to iron sulphate-iron) in the test substances were calculated from the dose response regression equations obtained on the standard groups, and hemoglobin (g/100 ml), feed consumption and body weight gain in the test groups. Statistical evaluation of the data revealed that the assay complied with the requirement for statistical and fundamental validity. Results from application of the method on six different samples of fish protein concentrate (FPC) are reported.", "contents": "A chick assay for determination of available iron from biological material and its application to fish protein concentrates. A dose response assay for the assessment of available iron in biological materials using chicks as experimental animals is described. Day-old chicks were fed on an iron-deficient diet for 2 to 3 weeks at which time the hematocrit had decreased to about 20%. After this depletion period, the standard groups were fed graded levels of iron sulphate up to a maximum level of 30 ppm iron. The test groups were fed two levels of biological material giving a total dietary iron concentration within the standard range. The response was measured by hemoglobin concentration (g/100 ml), and the dose by the consumption of iron per gram of body weight gain. Contents of available iron (relative to iron sulphate-iron) in the test substances were calculated from the dose response regression equations obtained on the standard groups, and hemoglobin (g/100 ml), feed consumption and body weight gain in the test groups. Statistical evaluation of the data revealed that the assay complied with the requirement for statistical and fundamental validity. Results from application of the method on six different samples of fish protein concentrate (FPC) are reported.", "PMID": 430256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_375", "title": "Pyridoxine requirements of channel catfish.", "content": "In 20 and 12 week feeding trials, channel catfish fingerlings were fed purified diets containing five levels (0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) and six levels (0, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) of supplemental pyridoxine hydrochloride. Fish fed unsupplemented diets (pyridoxine content of 1.2 mg/kg) were characterized by anoxeria, nervous disorders, tetany, greenish-blue body coloration, and eventual mortality. Anemia, which has been reported in pyridoxine deficient salmonids, was not observed in pyridoxine deficient catfish. However, a microcytic, normochromic anemia was observed in groups fed high dietary levels of pyridoxine (20 mg/kg or greater). The dietary pyridoxine level required for maximal growth was approximately 3 mg/kg of diet. All other deficiency signs were prevented by 2.2 mg/kg of diet.", "contents": "Pyridoxine requirements of channel catfish. In 20 and 12 week feeding trials, channel catfish fingerlings were fed purified diets containing five levels (0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) and six levels (0, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) of supplemental pyridoxine hydrochloride. Fish fed unsupplemented diets (pyridoxine content of 1.2 mg/kg) were characterized by anoxeria, nervous disorders, tetany, greenish-blue body coloration, and eventual mortality. Anemia, which has been reported in pyridoxine deficient salmonids, was not observed in pyridoxine deficient catfish. However, a microcytic, normochromic anemia was observed in groups fed high dietary levels of pyridoxine (20 mg/kg or greater). The dietary pyridoxine level required for maximal growth was approximately 3 mg/kg of diet. All other deficiency signs were prevented by 2.2 mg/kg of diet.", "PMID": 430257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_376", "title": "Increase in metabolic rate of the alligator fed proteins or amino acids.", "content": "Energy required for protein digestion, amino acid absorption and transport, and for protein synthesis in the alligator was estimated by determining oxygen consumption following feeding of single amino acids, various amino acid mixtures, fish, casein, gelatin, zein, and a gelatin hydrolysate. Results suggested a low energy requirement for protein digestion, for absorption of the released amino acids, and for amino acid transport, and a high energy requirement for protein synthesis. Little energy was needed for absorption and transport of neutral single amino acids but absorption of single ionic amino acids appeared to require energy. The alligator's metabolic rate is so low that processes requiring extra energy increased oxygen consumption as much as 300%. Peptide bond synthesis seems to have been responsible for the 3-fold increase in metabolic rate after feeding protein. Whether that phenomenon should be called \"specific dynamic action\" is problematical.", "contents": "Increase in metabolic rate of the alligator fed proteins or amino acids. Energy required for protein digestion, amino acid absorption and transport, and for protein synthesis in the alligator was estimated by determining oxygen consumption following feeding of single amino acids, various amino acid mixtures, fish, casein, gelatin, zein, and a gelatin hydrolysate. Results suggested a low energy requirement for protein digestion, for absorption of the released amino acids, and for amino acid transport, and a high energy requirement for protein synthesis. Little energy was needed for absorption and transport of neutral single amino acids but absorption of single ionic amino acids appeared to require energy. The alligator's metabolic rate is so low that processes requiring extra energy increased oxygen consumption as much as 300%. Peptide bond synthesis seems to have been responsible for the 3-fold increase in metabolic rate after feeding protein. Whether that phenomenon should be called \"specific dynamic action\" is problematical.", "PMID": 430258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_377", "title": "Effect of dietary Fe to Cu ratios on hematological and growth responses of broiler chickens.", "content": "A total of 2,640 broiler strain cockerels were used in three experiments to determine the interrelationships between Fe and Cu requirements of 1- to 21-day old broiler chicks. In each experiment, a starch non-fat milk basal diet was fed to chicks maintained in battery brooders beginning at 1 day of age. Maximum hemoglobin levels and packed cell volumes (PCV) of 21-day old chicks were found by feeding 80 parts per million (ppm) of dietary Fe and 8 ppm of dietary Cu from 1 to 21 days of age. The heaviest 21-day old chicks were found by feeding 80 ppm dietary Fe. Variations were found among experiments in the copper requirement based on body weight. The Cu requirement ranged from 8 to 16 ppm as indicated by 21-day old chick weights. A 10:1 dietary Fe to Cu ratio with an Fe requirement of 80 ppm appeared to maximize hemoglobin levels and PCV's of 21-day old broiler chicks; whereas, a 5:1 dietary Fe to Cu ratio, rather than a 10:1, 15:1, or 20:1 ratio, maximized 21-day old chick weights. Iron requirements for hematological and growth responses are essentially the same; however, the copper requirement may be slightly different for the two criteria.", "contents": "Effect of dietary Fe to Cu ratios on hematological and growth responses of broiler chickens. A total of 2,640 broiler strain cockerels were used in three experiments to determine the interrelationships between Fe and Cu requirements of 1- to 21-day old broiler chicks. In each experiment, a starch non-fat milk basal diet was fed to chicks maintained in battery brooders beginning at 1 day of age. Maximum hemoglobin levels and packed cell volumes (PCV) of 21-day old chicks were found by feeding 80 parts per million (ppm) of dietary Fe and 8 ppm of dietary Cu from 1 to 21 days of age. The heaviest 21-day old chicks were found by feeding 80 ppm dietary Fe. Variations were found among experiments in the copper requirement based on body weight. The Cu requirement ranged from 8 to 16 ppm as indicated by 21-day old chick weights. A 10:1 dietary Fe to Cu ratio with an Fe requirement of 80 ppm appeared to maximize hemoglobin levels and PCV's of 21-day old broiler chicks; whereas, a 5:1 dietary Fe to Cu ratio, rather than a 10:1, 15:1, or 20:1 ratio, maximized 21-day old chick weights. Iron requirements for hematological and growth responses are essentially the same; however, the copper requirement may be slightly different for the two criteria.", "PMID": 430259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_378", "title": "In vivo intestinal calcium transport in infant rats: normal and growth retarded.", "content": "We compared the in vivo transport of calcium (Ca) in the jejunum + ileum of 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 6-week old rats. In normal rats, net absorption and the estimated bidirectional fluxes of Ca (lumen-to mucosa and mucosa-to-lumen) normalized for differences in size of the intestine (mumoles/hour per g weight) were similar in the 1-, 2-, and 3-week old rats and significantly lower in the 6-week old than in the younger rats. Growth retardation (pups raised with mothers fed a diet deficient in protein) appeared to have suppressed net absorption and the bidirectional fluxes of calcium in the 4- and 6-week old rats, but to have slightly enhanced net absorption and the bidirectional fluxes in the 1-, 2-, and 3-week old rats. These findings suggested a change in the mechanism(s) for intestinal transport of Ca during maturation. Rate of gain in body weight expressed as g/day increased with age from 1.4 g/day between 1 and 2 weeks, to 6.1 g/day between 4 and 6 weeks of age. There was no correlation between rate of net Ca absorption from the jejunum + ileum and gain in body weight expressed as g/day or as percent per day.", "contents": "In vivo intestinal calcium transport in infant rats: normal and growth retarded. We compared the in vivo transport of calcium (Ca) in the jejunum + ileum of 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 6-week old rats. In normal rats, net absorption and the estimated bidirectional fluxes of Ca (lumen-to mucosa and mucosa-to-lumen) normalized for differences in size of the intestine (mumoles/hour per g weight) were similar in the 1-, 2-, and 3-week old rats and significantly lower in the 6-week old than in the younger rats. Growth retardation (pups raised with mothers fed a diet deficient in protein) appeared to have suppressed net absorption and the bidirectional fluxes of calcium in the 4- and 6-week old rats, but to have slightly enhanced net absorption and the bidirectional fluxes in the 1-, 2-, and 3-week old rats. These findings suggested a change in the mechanism(s) for intestinal transport of Ca during maturation. Rate of gain in body weight expressed as g/day increased with age from 1.4 g/day between 1 and 2 weeks, to 6.1 g/day between 4 and 6 weeks of age. There was no correlation between rate of net Ca absorption from the jejunum + ileum and gain in body weight expressed as g/day or as percent per day.", "PMID": 430260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_379", "title": "Effect of retinoic acid and retinyl acetate feeding upon lipid metabolism in adrenalectomized rats.", "content": "Many reports have appeared in the literature suggesting that vitamin A may exert some of its effects via changes in adrenocortical activity. A series of experiments were performed in order to assess the possible role of the adrenal gland in vitamin A-induced lipid alterations in rats. Adrenalectomized, sham-operated, and intact rats were fed retinoic acid or retinyl acetate at several levels. Either 25 or 100 retinol equivalents (RE)/g dry diet were fed to male Sprague-Dawley rats for periods of 7 or 28 days. Neither compound had an effect on the concentration of liver glycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol, or total lipids. Vitamin A, especially in the form of retinoic acid, was found to induce an elevation of plasma triglycerides. The presence of the adrenal gland was not necessary for the induction of hypertriglyceridemia nor was there any indication of increased adrenocortical output (as measured by plasma corticosterone level) as a result of vitamin A feeding. There was a reduction in circulating retinol as a result of retinoic acid feeding at either 25 or 100 RE in sham-operated and adrenalectomized rats but not in unoperated rats. These experiments demonstrate that vitamin A, especially in the form of retinoic acid, fed at as low as 25 RE/g diet to the rat can induce hypertriglyceridemia, and that the adrenal gland does not mediate this effect.", "contents": "Effect of retinoic acid and retinyl acetate feeding upon lipid metabolism in adrenalectomized rats. Many reports have appeared in the literature suggesting that vitamin A may exert some of its effects via changes in adrenocortical activity. A series of experiments were performed in order to assess the possible role of the adrenal gland in vitamin A-induced lipid alterations in rats. Adrenalectomized, sham-operated, and intact rats were fed retinoic acid or retinyl acetate at several levels. Either 25 or 100 retinol equivalents (RE)/g dry diet were fed to male Sprague-Dawley rats for periods of 7 or 28 days. Neither compound had an effect on the concentration of liver glycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol, or total lipids. Vitamin A, especially in the form of retinoic acid, was found to induce an elevation of plasma triglycerides. The presence of the adrenal gland was not necessary for the induction of hypertriglyceridemia nor was there any indication of increased adrenocortical output (as measured by plasma corticosterone level) as a result of vitamin A feeding. There was a reduction in circulating retinol as a result of retinoic acid feeding at either 25 or 100 RE in sham-operated and adrenalectomized rats but not in unoperated rats. These experiments demonstrate that vitamin A, especially in the form of retinoic acid, fed at as low as 25 RE/g diet to the rat can induce hypertriglyceridemia, and that the adrenal gland does not mediate this effect.", "PMID": 430261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_380", "title": "Effect of intermittent feeding on glucose-insulin relationship in the chicken.", "content": "The effects of training to various rhythms of intermittent total starvation (ITS) or intermittent protein starvation (IPS) on the plasma glucose and the plasma insulin levels were studied in the growing chicken. Both types of feeding improved the glucose tolerance in spite of a decrease in the insulin response. After an oral glucose load, plasma free fatty acids showed opposite variations to plasma insulin and plasma glucose. The insulin released in response to a test meal was unchanged. In the ITS 1-1 group (1 day fasting-1 day feeding cycles), low glycemia-low insulinemia were observed during the fasting period of the cycle and high glycemia-hyperinsulinemia during the repletion period in response to the \"adaptive hyperphagia.\" In the IPS 1-1 group (1 day feeding with the protein free diet-1 day feeding with the balanced diet cycles), glycemia was sustained at a high level during both periods of the cycle and insulinemia was depressed by feeding with the protein-free diet and highly stimulated by refeeding with the balanced diet. Therefore, in the chicken, intermittent feeding increases the insulin sensitivity of target tissues and modifies the B-cell sensitivity to glucose. The highest decrease in B-cell sensitivity to glucose was obtained with the protein free diet which further emphasizes the glucose-amino acid synergism previously observed for insulin release.", "contents": "Effect of intermittent feeding on glucose-insulin relationship in the chicken. The effects of training to various rhythms of intermittent total starvation (ITS) or intermittent protein starvation (IPS) on the plasma glucose and the plasma insulin levels were studied in the growing chicken. Both types of feeding improved the glucose tolerance in spite of a decrease in the insulin response. After an oral glucose load, plasma free fatty acids showed opposite variations to plasma insulin and plasma glucose. The insulin released in response to a test meal was unchanged. In the ITS 1-1 group (1 day fasting-1 day feeding cycles), low glycemia-low insulinemia were observed during the fasting period of the cycle and high glycemia-hyperinsulinemia during the repletion period in response to the \"adaptive hyperphagia.\" In the IPS 1-1 group (1 day feeding with the protein free diet-1 day feeding with the balanced diet cycles), glycemia was sustained at a high level during both periods of the cycle and insulinemia was depressed by feeding with the protein-free diet and highly stimulated by refeeding with the balanced diet. Therefore, in the chicken, intermittent feeding increases the insulin sensitivity of target tissues and modifies the B-cell sensitivity to glucose. The highest decrease in B-cell sensitivity to glucose was obtained with the protein free diet which further emphasizes the glucose-amino acid synergism previously observed for insulin release.", "PMID": 430264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_381", "title": "Outcome of early experience studies as affected by between-litter variance.", "content": "Studies of early experiences in animals in which the mother or the entire litter is manipulated often involve significant levels of between-litter variance. Such variance, if not accounted for either by analysis which considers litter as an independent source of variance, or by use of mean litter scores, may contribute to misleading treatment effects. This phenomenon is demonstrated for experiments utilizing analysis of variance procedures for data analysis.", "contents": "Outcome of early experience studies as affected by between-litter variance. Studies of early experiences in animals in which the mother or the entire litter is manipulated often involve significant levels of between-litter variance. Such variance, if not accounted for either by analysis which considers litter as an independent source of variance, or by use of mean litter scores, may contribute to misleading treatment effects. This phenomenon is demonstrated for experiments utilizing analysis of variance procedures for data analysis.", "PMID": 430265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_382", "title": "Mechanism for fatty liver induction in rats fed arginine deficient diets.", "content": "Arginine deficiency is known to lead to marked alterations in pyrimidine biosynthesis and the excessive loss of urinary orotic acid. Orotic acid feeding is known to lead to hepatic steatosis. These studies show that arginine deficiency also results in a marked increase in liver lipids in the rat. The majority of the increased liver lipid can be accounted for by triglyceride accumulation. Increased liver lipid infiltration was found to be independent of the sex of the rat. Accompanying this increase was a decrease in serum triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations. Fatty infiltrations induced by arginine deficiency could be reversed by refeeding an arginine enriched diet. Adenine supplementation (0.30%) to the arginine deficient diet also completely prevented the induction of fatty livers. Adenine supplementation resulted in a dramatic increase in urinary orotic acid excretion in the arginine deficient rat. Guanine supplementation (0.5%) to an arginine deficient diet reduced but did not prevent the induction of fatty livers. The similarities of fatty livers induced by arginine deficiency and orotic acid feeding are discussed.", "contents": "Mechanism for fatty liver induction in rats fed arginine deficient diets. Arginine deficiency is known to lead to marked alterations in pyrimidine biosynthesis and the excessive loss of urinary orotic acid. Orotic acid feeding is known to lead to hepatic steatosis. These studies show that arginine deficiency also results in a marked increase in liver lipids in the rat. The majority of the increased liver lipid can be accounted for by triglyceride accumulation. Increased liver lipid infiltration was found to be independent of the sex of the rat. Accompanying this increase was a decrease in serum triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations. Fatty infiltrations induced by arginine deficiency could be reversed by refeeding an arginine enriched diet. Adenine supplementation (0.30%) to the arginine deficient diet also completely prevented the induction of fatty livers. Adenine supplementation resulted in a dramatic increase in urinary orotic acid excretion in the arginine deficient rat. Guanine supplementation (0.5%) to an arginine deficient diet reduced but did not prevent the induction of fatty livers. The similarities of fatty livers induced by arginine deficiency and orotic acid feeding are discussed.", "PMID": 430266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_383", "title": "Lanthanide markers in a single sample for nutrient studies in humans.", "content": "Multiple Lanthanide markers were used to develop procedures for determinations of intake and apparent utilization of four nutrients using data from fecal analysis and known concentrations of markers in nutrients. Terbium oxide was given as the intake marker. All foods contained the other non-absorbed markers, each marker in direct proportion to the amount of a specific nutrient in each food. Nutrient markers were oxides of samarium, scandium, ytterbium, and europium. Fecal collection and subsequent analysis of nutrients and markers were completed. Fecal marker concentration stabilized 2 days following initiation of the marker regime. Thus, after 3 days, a single grab sample could be utilized to analyze for nutrient utilization. The ratio of nutrient marker proportional to nutrient and intake to nutrient excretion provides the data for the calculation of apparent utilization for as many nutrients as nutrient markers incorporated into the food. When direct and marker methods of determining nutrient intake and apparent utilization were compared, no significant differences were found for gross energy, fat, protein, and calcium.", "contents": "Lanthanide markers in a single sample for nutrient studies in humans. Multiple Lanthanide markers were used to develop procedures for determinations of intake and apparent utilization of four nutrients using data from fecal analysis and known concentrations of markers in nutrients. Terbium oxide was given as the intake marker. All foods contained the other non-absorbed markers, each marker in direct proportion to the amount of a specific nutrient in each food. Nutrient markers were oxides of samarium, scandium, ytterbium, and europium. Fecal collection and subsequent analysis of nutrients and markers were completed. Fecal marker concentration stabilized 2 days following initiation of the marker regime. Thus, after 3 days, a single grab sample could be utilized to analyze for nutrient utilization. The ratio of nutrient marker proportional to nutrient and intake to nutrient excretion provides the data for the calculation of apparent utilization for as many nutrients as nutrient markers incorporated into the food. When direct and marker methods of determining nutrient intake and apparent utilization were compared, no significant differences were found for gross energy, fat, protein, and calcium.", "PMID": 430269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_384", "title": "Essentiality of amino acids for the growing kitten.", "content": "The effect of deleting each of the amino acids known to be essential for the young rat was determined in post weanling kittens fed a purified diet containing only L-amino acids as the source of dietary nitrogen. When any one of the 10 amino acids (arginine, lysine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine) were deleted from the diet food intake decreased, the kittens lost weight, and there was a dramatic drop in each corresponding amino acid in the blood plasma; indicating that each of the above amino acids is essential for the kitten. Deletion of all the amino acids except the 10 essential amino acids plus alanine resulted in a decreased weight gain to about 1/3 normal; indicating that although all the other amino acids could be synthesized, one or more of the dispensable amino acids may be required for maximal growth. When any one of the essential amino acids was decreased to one-half that present in the basal diet, there was no decrease in weight gain, indicating that the high protein requirement of the kitten is not the result of an unusually high requirement for the essential amino acids.", "contents": "Essentiality of amino acids for the growing kitten. The effect of deleting each of the amino acids known to be essential for the young rat was determined in post weanling kittens fed a purified diet containing only L-amino acids as the source of dietary nitrogen. When any one of the 10 amino acids (arginine, lysine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine) were deleted from the diet food intake decreased, the kittens lost weight, and there was a dramatic drop in each corresponding amino acid in the blood plasma; indicating that each of the above amino acids is essential for the kitten. Deletion of all the amino acids except the 10 essential amino acids plus alanine resulted in a decreased weight gain to about 1/3 normal; indicating that although all the other amino acids could be synthesized, one or more of the dispensable amino acids may be required for maximal growth. When any one of the essential amino acids was decreased to one-half that present in the basal diet, there was no decrease in weight gain, indicating that the high protein requirement of the kitten is not the result of an unusually high requirement for the essential amino acids.", "PMID": 430271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_385", "title": "Statistical analysis of epidemiological data from a chromium chemical manufacturing plant.", "content": "A statistical analysis was performed on reported bronchogenic carcinoma incidence in a group of chromium chemical manufacturing workers over the period 1929 to 1977. The purpose was to determine if post-1950 process improvements corresponded to favorable trends in morbidity. Because the paucity of data on the population at risk prevented meaningful calculations of SMR's, a recently developed method called \"probability window analysis\" was used to evaluate for statistically valid changes in the \"numerators\" or number of reported cases. A significant downward trend in reported bronchogenic carcinoma was found which coincided with major process improvements made in 1951 and 1961. Although adjustment for all competing risk factors was not possible because of insufficient data on the population at risk, the improved working environment has to be considered a major contributing factor to the favorable trend.", "contents": "Statistical analysis of epidemiological data from a chromium chemical manufacturing plant. A statistical analysis was performed on reported bronchogenic carcinoma incidence in a group of chromium chemical manufacturing workers over the period 1929 to 1977. The purpose was to determine if post-1950 process improvements corresponded to favorable trends in morbidity. Because the paucity of data on the population at risk prevented meaningful calculations of SMR's, a recently developed method called \"probability window analysis\" was used to evaluate for statistically valid changes in the \"numerators\" or number of reported cases. A significant downward trend in reported bronchogenic carcinoma was found which coincided with major process improvements made in 1951 and 1961. Although adjustment for all competing risk factors was not possible because of insufficient data on the population at risk, the improved working environment has to be considered a major contributing factor to the favorable trend.", "PMID": 430272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_386", "title": "Campylobacter enteritis in children.", "content": "In 37 children with Campylobacter enteritis seen over a 6-month period, ages ranged from 2 weeks to 15 years. The sex ratio (male:female) was three:two. Fever, diarrhea, and bloody stools occurred in about 90% of patients. Blood appeared in the stools characteristically 2 to 4 days after onset of symptoms. Over 90% of older children developed abdominal pain. Vomiting was mild and occurred in 30% of patients. Dehydration was not a feature. Infection occurred in all social classes and was not associated with parental occupation, travel, or animal contact. The illness often presented characteristically and a rapid laboratory diagnosis could be made in patients presenting acutely by direct phase-contrast microscopy of stools. The organism persisted in the stools for up to seven weeks in untreated patients, but could no longer be cultured after 48 hours of therapy with erythromycin, to which all strains were highly sensitive. Significant serologic responses were elicited using a serum bactericidal assay. The Skirrow-type selective medium used by us could be improved by increasing the concentration of polymyxin B sulfate to 5 microgram/ml.", "contents": "Campylobacter enteritis in children. In 37 children with Campylobacter enteritis seen over a 6-month period, ages ranged from 2 weeks to 15 years. The sex ratio (male:female) was three:two. Fever, diarrhea, and bloody stools occurred in about 90% of patients. Blood appeared in the stools characteristically 2 to 4 days after onset of symptoms. Over 90% of older children developed abdominal pain. Vomiting was mild and occurred in 30% of patients. Dehydration was not a feature. Infection occurred in all social classes and was not associated with parental occupation, travel, or animal contact. The illness often presented characteristically and a rapid laboratory diagnosis could be made in patients presenting acutely by direct phase-contrast microscopy of stools. The organism persisted in the stools for up to seven weeks in untreated patients, but could no longer be cultured after 48 hours of therapy with erythromycin, to which all strains were highly sensitive. Significant serologic responses were elicited using a serum bactericidal assay. The Skirrow-type selective medium used by us could be improved by increasing the concentration of polymyxin B sulfate to 5 microgram/ml.", "PMID": 430287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_387", "title": "Intelligence and phenylketonuria: effects of diet termination.", "content": "Trends in intellectual functioning before and after diet termination were examined in 30 children with PKU treated before 6 weeks of age and on a liberal diet for a mean of three years since the mean age of 59 months. Comparisons of trends in pre- and posttermination IQ scores with the linear spline technique revealed no significant differences. Comparisons of pretermination IQ scores with posttermination scores and scores from the most recent evaluation also yielded no significant differences. These data fail to support a relationship between termination of diet and impairment of intellectual functioning, at least during this period of observation.", "contents": "Intelligence and phenylketonuria: effects of diet termination. Trends in intellectual functioning before and after diet termination were examined in 30 children with PKU treated before 6 weeks of age and on a liberal diet for a mean of three years since the mean age of 59 months. Comparisons of trends in pre- and posttermination IQ scores with the linear spline technique revealed no significant differences. Comparisons of pretermination IQ scores with posttermination scores and scores from the most recent evaluation also yielded no significant differences. These data fail to support a relationship between termination of diet and impairment of intellectual functioning, at least during this period of observation.", "PMID": 430288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_388", "title": "Impaired growth in hyperkinetic children receiving pemoline.", "content": "Decreased longitudinal growth was observed in 24 hyperkinetic children receiving pemoline therapy. Mean height velocity was 3.67 +/- 0.25 cm/year during therapy but 5.35 +/- 0.42 cm/year after treatment had been discontinued (P less than 0.01). There appeared to be an inverse relationship between growth velocity and drug dosage. All patients receiving less than the median dose of 3.72 mg/kg grew 4 cm/year or more, while seven of 12 patients receiving more than this dose grew at a slower rate. Body weight, basal and stimulated growth hormone values, and plasma somatomedin concentrations were not significantly altered by pemoline treatment, suggesting that this drug may have a direct effect on cartilage metabolism.", "contents": "Impaired growth in hyperkinetic children receiving pemoline. Decreased longitudinal growth was observed in 24 hyperkinetic children receiving pemoline therapy. Mean height velocity was 3.67 +/- 0.25 cm/year during therapy but 5.35 +/- 0.42 cm/year after treatment had been discontinued (P less than 0.01). There appeared to be an inverse relationship between growth velocity and drug dosage. All patients receiving less than the median dose of 3.72 mg/kg grew 4 cm/year or more, while seven of 12 patients receiving more than this dose grew at a slower rate. Body weight, basal and stimulated growth hormone values, and plasma somatomedin concentrations were not significantly altered by pemoline treatment, suggesting that this drug may have a direct effect on cartilage metabolism.", "PMID": 430289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_389", "title": "Refractory infantile diarrhea due to primary bile acid malabsorption.", "content": "A boy is described who had severe, refractory diarrhea beginning soon after birth. Prolonged parenteral alimentation was required to support life. Investigations of bile acid metabolism showed impaired intestinal absorption of bile acids. Contracted bile acid pool sizes resulted, with low intraluminal bile acid concentrations and severe, malabsorption of water and fat. Bile acid malabsorption is a cause of refractory infantile diarrhea.", "contents": "Refractory infantile diarrhea due to primary bile acid malabsorption. A boy is described who had severe, refractory diarrhea beginning soon after birth. Prolonged parenteral alimentation was required to support life. Investigations of bile acid metabolism showed impaired intestinal absorption of bile acids. Contracted bile acid pool sizes resulted, with low intraluminal bile acid concentrations and severe, malabsorption of water and fat. Bile acid malabsorption is a cause of refractory infantile diarrhea.", "PMID": 430290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_390", "title": "Laboratory measures of copper metabolism in the differentiation of chronic active hepatitis and Wilson disease in children.", "content": "The accuracy of the serum ceruloplasmin level in distinguishing chronic active hepatitis from Wilson disease was compared to the 24-hour urinary copper excretion and hepatic copper content in 20 untreated patients with chronic active hepatitis and 25 with Wilson disease. Serum ceruloplasmin levels were decreased in five patients (25%) with chronic active hepatitis and were normal in seven patients (28%) with Wilson disease at the time of diagnosis. The 24-hour urinary copper excretion failed to provide accurate discrimination between the two groups, being elevated in all patients with Wilson disease and in five of eight patients with chronic active hepatitis studied. All patients with Wilson disease had hepatic copper levels greater than 400 microgram/gm dry weight, whereas patients with chronic active hepatitis had levels less than 300 microgram/gm dry weight. The discriminatory value of hepatic copper concentration makes this the most reliable test for differentiating chronic active hepatitis and Wilson disease in children and adolescents. The serum ceruloplasmin level may not be significantly accurate for definitive diagnosis in this age group.", "contents": "Laboratory measures of copper metabolism in the differentiation of chronic active hepatitis and Wilson disease in children. The accuracy of the serum ceruloplasmin level in distinguishing chronic active hepatitis from Wilson disease was compared to the 24-hour urinary copper excretion and hepatic copper content in 20 untreated patients with chronic active hepatitis and 25 with Wilson disease. Serum ceruloplasmin levels were decreased in five patients (25%) with chronic active hepatitis and were normal in seven patients (28%) with Wilson disease at the time of diagnosis. The 24-hour urinary copper excretion failed to provide accurate discrimination between the two groups, being elevated in all patients with Wilson disease and in five of eight patients with chronic active hepatitis studied. All patients with Wilson disease had hepatic copper levels greater than 400 microgram/gm dry weight, whereas patients with chronic active hepatitis had levels less than 300 microgram/gm dry weight. The discriminatory value of hepatic copper concentration makes this the most reliable test for differentiating chronic active hepatitis and Wilson disease in children and adolescents. The serum ceruloplasmin level may not be significantly accurate for definitive diagnosis in this age group.", "PMID": 430291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_391", "title": "Reye syndrome in siblings.", "content": "Reye syndrome in siblings was seen in three of 85 families; the incidence of RS in these family groups appears to exceed that of the general population. The interval between development of RS in the first and second siblings was two to 11 days and related to the incubation period of the initial viral infection. In five of the children this infection was chickenpox and in two, an unspecified upper respiratory illness. To assess the role of genetic factors, HLA typing was performed on these siblings; a common genetic marker indicating susceptibility to RS was not identified. All families resided in rural and suburban areas; exposure to a common environmental toxin was not identified.", "contents": "Reye syndrome in siblings. Reye syndrome in siblings was seen in three of 85 families; the incidence of RS in these family groups appears to exceed that of the general population. The interval between development of RS in the first and second siblings was two to 11 days and related to the incubation period of the initial viral infection. In five of the children this infection was chickenpox and in two, an unspecified upper respiratory illness. To assess the role of genetic factors, HLA typing was performed on these siblings; a common genetic marker indicating susceptibility to RS was not identified. All families resided in rural and suburban areas; exposure to a common environmental toxin was not identified.", "PMID": 430292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_392", "title": "Urine culture in the evaluation of suspected neonatal sepsis.", "content": "Clinical records of patients in a neonatal intensive care unit were reviewed to determine the efficacy of obtaining a urine culture in the detection of neonatal sepsis. During a 12-month period, 188 sets of concomitant blood and urine cultures were obtained in infants less than 72 hours of age (early onset group) and 189 sets of cultures in infants over 72 hours of age (late onset group). Blood cultures were positive in nine instances in the early onset group and 11 instances in the late onset group. All but one blood culture in each group was accompanied by a negative urine culture. Urine cultures alone were positive in two instances in the early onset group and 13 instances in the late onset group (P less than 0.05). Symptoms did not differentiate infants with bacteremia from infants with bacteruria. Culture of the urine was shown to be necessary for the detection of a significant number of late onset infections. Urine culture in the early onset age group had a significantly lower yield, and the risk of suprapubic bladder tap in this group may not be justified.", "contents": "Urine culture in the evaluation of suspected neonatal sepsis. Clinical records of patients in a neonatal intensive care unit were reviewed to determine the efficacy of obtaining a urine culture in the detection of neonatal sepsis. During a 12-month period, 188 sets of concomitant blood and urine cultures were obtained in infants less than 72 hours of age (early onset group) and 189 sets of cultures in infants over 72 hours of age (late onset group). Blood cultures were positive in nine instances in the early onset group and 11 instances in the late onset group. All but one blood culture in each group was accompanied by a negative urine culture. Urine cultures alone were positive in two instances in the early onset group and 13 instances in the late onset group (P less than 0.05). Symptoms did not differentiate infants with bacteremia from infants with bacteruria. Culture of the urine was shown to be necessary for the detection of a significant number of late onset infections. Urine culture in the early onset age group had a significantly lower yield, and the risk of suprapubic bladder tap in this group may not be justified.", "PMID": 430312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_393", "title": "Dosage of digoxin in premature infants.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of digoxin in premature infants was studied. During maintenance therapy, after a total digitalizing dose of 30 microgram/kg, the measured digoxin level was related inversely to body weight at birth and to estimated gestational age. The serum digoxin levels found in the immature and smaller infants were two to three times the values usually reported to be toxic in older children. Based on these findings, a second group of premature infants was digitalized with 20 microgram/kg; in this group, the serum digoxin levels were below the toxic range, irrespective of gestational age or birth weight. The cardiac effects of digoxin, i.e., shortened left ventricular pre-ejection period and ejection time as determined by echocardiography, were similar in the two groups. For both groups, the half-life of digoxin in the serum was twice that reported for term infants and children. Since digitalis effect is obtained with lower dose and serum concentration, we recommend that this dose be used in premature infants.", "contents": "Dosage of digoxin in premature infants. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of digoxin in premature infants was studied. During maintenance therapy, after a total digitalizing dose of 30 microgram/kg, the measured digoxin level was related inversely to body weight at birth and to estimated gestational age. The serum digoxin levels found in the immature and smaller infants were two to three times the values usually reported to be toxic in older children. Based on these findings, a second group of premature infants was digitalized with 20 microgram/kg; in this group, the serum digoxin levels were below the toxic range, irrespective of gestational age or birth weight. The cardiac effects of digoxin, i.e., shortened left ventricular pre-ejection period and ejection time as determined by echocardiography, were similar in the two groups. For both groups, the half-life of digoxin in the serum was twice that reported for term infants and children. Since digitalis effect is obtained with lower dose and serum concentration, we recommend that this dose be used in premature infants.", "PMID": 430313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_394", "title": "Constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus after administration of indomethacin to the pregnant ewe.", "content": "The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor indomethacin was given orally or intravenously to pregnant ewes. This resulted in the fetal pulmonary to systemic arterial mean blood pressure difference across the ductus arteriosus rising significantly, presumably secondary to constriction of the ductus arteriosus. The pressure difference was due to pulmonary arterial hypertension, and not due to a fall in systemic arterial mean blood pressure. Fetal arterial blood gas tensions and pH values were normal throughout. In five experiments the pressure difference could be promptly but temporarily reversed by the administration of PGE1 into the fetal inferior vena cava. Indomethacin was present in fetal blood, and maternal plasma prostaglandin levels were suppressed. Indomethacin administration during pregnancy causes constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension which, if severe, may cause rapid fetal death. It is possible that this mechanism may be one cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension or tricuspid insufficiency or both in the newborn infant.", "contents": "Constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus after administration of indomethacin to the pregnant ewe. The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor indomethacin was given orally or intravenously to pregnant ewes. This resulted in the fetal pulmonary to systemic arterial mean blood pressure difference across the ductus arteriosus rising significantly, presumably secondary to constriction of the ductus arteriosus. The pressure difference was due to pulmonary arterial hypertension, and not due to a fall in systemic arterial mean blood pressure. Fetal arterial blood gas tensions and pH values were normal throughout. In five experiments the pressure difference could be promptly but temporarily reversed by the administration of PGE1 into the fetal inferior vena cava. Indomethacin was present in fetal blood, and maternal plasma prostaglandin levels were suppressed. Indomethacin administration during pregnancy causes constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension which, if severe, may cause rapid fetal death. It is possible that this mechanism may be one cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension or tricuspid insufficiency or both in the newborn infant.", "PMID": 430314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_395", "title": "Pharmacokinetic profile of caffeine in the premature newborn infant with apnea.", "content": "The pharmacokinetic profile of caffeine was studied in 32 premature newborn infants with apnea: 12 following a single intravenous dose; 3 after a single oral dose; 7 during treatment with an initial empirical (high) maintenance dose schedule; and 10 during treatment with a revised (lower) dose schedule. Mean (+/- SE) AV d, t 1/2, ke1, and clearance following a single intravenous dose were 0.916 +/- 0.070 1/kg, 102.9 +/- 17.9 hours, 0.009 +/- 0.001/hours and 8.9 +/- 1.5 ml/kg/hour, respectively. Rapid absorption was noted with plasma concentrations of 6 to 10 mg/l achieved within 30 minutes to two hours following an oral dose of 10 mg/kg. Cpss of caffeine in infants given a high empirical dose (11.2 +/- 1.5 mg/kg/day) ranged from 22.5 to 84.2 mg/l (mean = 45.3) whereas a dose schedule based on kinetic data (2.5 mg/kg/day) yielded plasma concentrations ranging from 7.4 to 19.4 mg/l (mean = 13.7). We suggest a loading dose of 10 mg/kg intravenously or orally followed by a daily maintenance dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day administered as a single dose for the treatment and prevention of neonatal apnea.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetic profile of caffeine in the premature newborn infant with apnea. The pharmacokinetic profile of caffeine was studied in 32 premature newborn infants with apnea: 12 following a single intravenous dose; 3 after a single oral dose; 7 during treatment with an initial empirical (high) maintenance dose schedule; and 10 during treatment with a revised (lower) dose schedule. Mean (+/- SE) AV d, t 1/2, ke1, and clearance following a single intravenous dose were 0.916 +/- 0.070 1/kg, 102.9 +/- 17.9 hours, 0.009 +/- 0.001/hours and 8.9 +/- 1.5 ml/kg/hour, respectively. Rapid absorption was noted with plasma concentrations of 6 to 10 mg/l achieved within 30 minutes to two hours following an oral dose of 10 mg/kg. Cpss of caffeine in infants given a high empirical dose (11.2 +/- 1.5 mg/kg/day) ranged from 22.5 to 84.2 mg/l (mean = 45.3) whereas a dose schedule based on kinetic data (2.5 mg/kg/day) yielded plasma concentrations ranging from 7.4 to 19.4 mg/l (mean = 13.7). We suggest a loading dose of 10 mg/kg intravenously or orally followed by a daily maintenance dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day administered as a single dose for the treatment and prevention of neonatal apnea.", "PMID": 430317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_396", "title": "Treatment of glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (glutaric aciduria). Experience with diet, riboflavin, and GABA analogue.", "content": "The autosomal recessive inherited disorder glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (glutaric aciduria) runs a progressive course with severe choreoathetosis and dystonia, eventually leading to total helplessness and early death. Theree patients were observed during therapeutic trials with a protein-low diet, riboflavin and GABA analogue. Diet and riboflavin had a slight-to-moderate effect on the clinical symptoms; the excretion of glutaric acid and 2-amino-adipic acid decreased considerably during treatment. Regression of neurologic symptoms was observed during treatment with GABA analogue. It is concluded that the patients should be treated as early as possible with protein-low diet, riboflavin, and GABA analogue.", "contents": "Treatment of glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (glutaric aciduria). Experience with diet, riboflavin, and GABA analogue. The autosomal recessive inherited disorder glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (glutaric aciduria) runs a progressive course with severe choreoathetosis and dystonia, eventually leading to total helplessness and early death. Theree patients were observed during therapeutic trials with a protein-low diet, riboflavin and GABA analogue. Diet and riboflavin had a slight-to-moderate effect on the clinical symptoms; the excretion of glutaric acid and 2-amino-adipic acid decreased considerably during treatment. Regression of neurologic symptoms was observed during treatment with GABA analogue. It is concluded that the patients should be treated as early as possible with protein-low diet, riboflavin, and GABA analogue.", "PMID": 430318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_397", "title": "Effects of a model on eating behavior: the induction of a restrained eating style.", "content": "An experiment was conducted to assess the effects of a same-sex model on females' eating behavior. The model ate either a large or small quantity along with the subject in an ad lib satiation context, and either did or did not identify herself as a dieter. Subjects were 86 female undergraduates, split into normally dieting or nondieting subgroups. Number of sandwich quarters consumed ad lib following a small fixed preload was found to vary as a function of (a) model's consumption (b) model's dieter status and (c) subject's dieter status; there were no significant interactions. A subsequent taste-rating assessment of nut consumption, in which the model was present but could neither see nor be seen by the subject, indicated that the three factors which had previously affected sandwich consumption independently combined to affect nut consumption interdependently. The results were interpreted in terms of the effect of the model on the quantity and pattern of consumption, and conclusions were drawn about the dynamics of restrained and unrestrained eating and implications for therapy.", "contents": "Effects of a model on eating behavior: the induction of a restrained eating style. An experiment was conducted to assess the effects of a same-sex model on females' eating behavior. The model ate either a large or small quantity along with the subject in an ad lib satiation context, and either did or did not identify herself as a dieter. Subjects were 86 female undergraduates, split into normally dieting or nondieting subgroups. Number of sandwich quarters consumed ad lib following a small fixed preload was found to vary as a function of (a) model's consumption (b) model's dieter status and (c) subject's dieter status; there were no significant interactions. A subsequent taste-rating assessment of nut consumption, in which the model was present but could neither see nor be seen by the subject, indicated that the three factors which had previously affected sandwich consumption independently combined to affect nut consumption interdependently. The results were interpreted in terms of the effect of the model on the quantity and pattern of consumption, and conclusions were drawn about the dynamics of restrained and unrestrained eating and implications for therapy.", "PMID": 430328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_398", "title": "Effects of an observer on eating behavior: the induction of \"sensible\" eating.", "content": "An experiment was conducted to investigate the extent of caloric compensation to differential preloading among normally restrained and unrestrained female subjects. Subjects' eating was either explicitly observed or unobserved by the experimenter. Unrestrained eaters compensated appropriately for the preload, whether or not they were observed. Restrained eaters failed to compensate when unobserved , but compensated strongly when observed. A subsequent unobserved eating task revealed that restrained eaters failed to compensate for prior consumption when the observer was withdrawn. Implications for research and therapy are discussed.", "contents": "Effects of an observer on eating behavior: the induction of \"sensible\" eating. An experiment was conducted to investigate the extent of caloric compensation to differential preloading among normally restrained and unrestrained female subjects. Subjects' eating was either explicitly observed or unobserved by the experimenter. Unrestrained eaters compensated appropriately for the preload, whether or not they were observed. Restrained eaters failed to compensate when unobserved , but compensated strongly when observed. A subsequent unobserved eating task revealed that restrained eaters failed to compensate for prior consumption when the observer was withdrawn. Implications for research and therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 430329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_399", "title": "The scientific status of the Rorschach.", "content": "Demonstrated that the interpretation of projective test data is semantic, not probabilistic. The clinician does not employ the model of statistical inference in evaluating the meaning of test responses, although he may employ probabilistic rules as guides to interpreation. Procedural rules for interpreting meaning, the nature of clinical diagnosis from psychological tests, and the meaning of prediction as a clinical activity are discussed. It was concluded that clinicians do not make inferences, in the mathematical sense of this term.", "contents": "The scientific status of the Rorschach. Demonstrated that the interpretation of projective test data is semantic, not probabilistic. The clinician does not employ the model of statistical inference in evaluating the meaning of test responses, although he may employ probabilistic rules as guides to interpreation. Procedural rules for interpreting meaning, the nature of clinical diagnosis from psychological tests, and the meaning of prediction as a clinical activity are discussed. It was concluded that clinicians do not make inferences, in the mathematical sense of this term.", "PMID": 430330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_400", "title": "The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A-Trait Scale: dimensions and their generalization.", "content": "The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A-Trait scale was administered to 152 female and 158 male students. Principal-components factor analyses yielded four orthogonal factors for each sex. The findings indicated that factor pattern comparisons should be made prior to pooling data across sex for psychometric investigations. Also, limited support was found for the generalization of dimensions across sex and samples both within and between cultures.", "contents": "The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A-Trait Scale: dimensions and their generalization. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A-Trait scale was administered to 152 female and 158 male students. Principal-components factor analyses yielded four orthogonal factors for each sex. The findings indicated that factor pattern comparisons should be made prior to pooling data across sex for psychometric investigations. Also, limited support was found for the generalization of dimensions across sex and samples both within and between cultures.", "PMID": 430331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_401", "title": "A psychometric investigation of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire.", "content": "The Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was administered to 139 females and 123 males. Scale statistics were obtained and hierachial factor analyses were performed. The P scale was found to have low internal consistency reliabilities and to covary with the L scale in the female subsample. Factor analyses showed recovery of E scale items in a secondary factor, Social Extraversion, without an impulsivity primary factor. No P and N dimensions recovered; rather components of each scale interrelated in two meaningful dimensions at the tertiary level.", "contents": "A psychometric investigation of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire. The Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was administered to 139 females and 123 males. Scale statistics were obtained and hierachial factor analyses were performed. The P scale was found to have low internal consistency reliabilities and to covary with the L scale in the female subsample. Factor analyses showed recovery of E scale items in a secondary factor, Social Extraversion, without an impulsivity primary factor. No P and N dimensions recovered; rather components of each scale interrelated in two meaningful dimensions at the tertiary level.", "PMID": 430332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_402", "title": "Response consistency on the MMPI; the TR Index.", "content": "The number of inconsistent responses to the repeated items (the TR Index) on the group booklet form of the MMPI provides important information on a person's test-taking behaviour which received scant attention. Normative data from a variety of populations and an optimal cutting score for the TR Index is provided.", "contents": "Response consistency on the MMPI; the TR Index. The number of inconsistent responses to the repeated items (the TR Index) on the group booklet form of the MMPI provides important information on a person's test-taking behaviour which received scant attention. Normative data from a variety of populations and an optimal cutting score for the TR Index is provided.", "PMID": 430333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_403", "title": "Indirect self-destructive behavior in patients with Buerger's disease.", "content": "Patients with Buerger's disease (a circulatory illness) were studied to evaluate indirect self-destructive behavior (ISDB), evidence by neglect in following medical regimen, disregard of suggestions for environmental imporvements (avoidance of undue exposure to cold) and refusal to abstain from smoking. Personality characteristics and behavioral phenomena associated with ISDB were obtained by comparison of the files of 26 uncooperative patients with 26 matched cooperative controls with Buerger's disease and with 25 Buerger's disease patients representing a unselected annual population in a Veterans Administration (VA) hospital. The experimental group was characterized as more often complaining, manipulative, and aggressive. They manifested denial, negligence, and a tendency to minimize their illness. They were more likely to complain of pain and to demand relief. In a second clinical investigation of patients still in the hospital, 12 experimentals were compared with 12 controls using interview data and psychological tests measuring attitudes toward time and toward death. The experimentals did not seem to value time nor to be interested in achievement. They felt that a dull life was worse than death.", "contents": "Indirect self-destructive behavior in patients with Buerger's disease. Patients with Buerger's disease (a circulatory illness) were studied to evaluate indirect self-destructive behavior (ISDB), evidence by neglect in following medical regimen, disregard of suggestions for environmental imporvements (avoidance of undue exposure to cold) and refusal to abstain from smoking. Personality characteristics and behavioral phenomena associated with ISDB were obtained by comparison of the files of 26 uncooperative patients with 26 matched cooperative controls with Buerger's disease and with 25 Buerger's disease patients representing a unselected annual population in a Veterans Administration (VA) hospital. The experimental group was characterized as more often complaining, manipulative, and aggressive. They manifested denial, negligence, and a tendency to minimize their illness. They were more likely to complain of pain and to demand relief. In a second clinical investigation of patients still in the hospital, 12 experimentals were compared with 12 controls using interview data and psychological tests measuring attitudes toward time and toward death. The experimentals did not seem to value time nor to be interested in achievement. They felt that a dull life was worse than death.", "PMID": 430334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_404", "title": "Pharmacokinetics and cardiopulmonary effects in dogs of sublingual pirbuterol, a new bronchodilator.", "content": "The time course of plasma concentrations of sublingually administered pirbuterol was investigated in anesthetized dogs; there was a dose-related increase in plasma drug concentrations which reached maximum values 1 hr or more after administration. In a second study plasma drug levels were correlated with antagonism of histamine-induced changes in pulmonary compliance and resistance which also reached maximum values 1 hr or more after drug administration, although marked antagonism was apparent at 15 to 30 min; blood pressure was unaltered at any dose level and heart rate was influenced only at the highest dose level. A convenient method for study of the bioavailability of sublingual formulations is described, and the potential usefulness of a sublingual dosage form of pirbuterol is discussed.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics and cardiopulmonary effects in dogs of sublingual pirbuterol, a new bronchodilator. The time course of plasma concentrations of sublingually administered pirbuterol was investigated in anesthetized dogs; there was a dose-related increase in plasma drug concentrations which reached maximum values 1 hr or more after administration. In a second study plasma drug levels were correlated with antagonism of histamine-induced changes in pulmonary compliance and resistance which also reached maximum values 1 hr or more after drug administration, although marked antagonism was apparent at 15 to 30 min; blood pressure was unaltered at any dose level and heart rate was influenced only at the highest dose level. A convenient method for study of the bioavailability of sublingual formulations is described, and the potential usefulness of a sublingual dosage form of pirbuterol is discussed.", "PMID": 430357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_405", "title": "The anaerobic metabolism of metronidazole forms N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid.", "content": "N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid is formed when metronidazole is reduced either chemically or by the action of the intestinal bacteria. When metronidazole, labeled with carbon-14 in the hydroxyethyl side chain, is administered by gavage to rats in doses of 200 mg/kg, an average of 1.4% of the administered radioactivity is recovered in the urine in the form of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid. The presence of conjugated N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid in some samples was suggested by the detection of small additional amounts of the free acid after treatment of the urine with beta-glucuronidase. The metabolite is not found in the feces. In contrast N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid is not found in the urine or feces of germfree rats which receive metronidazole. Thus, the finding of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid in the urine of rats which receive metronidazole appears to depend on the activity of the bacterial flora.", "contents": "The anaerobic metabolism of metronidazole forms N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid. N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid is formed when metronidazole is reduced either chemically or by the action of the intestinal bacteria. When metronidazole, labeled with carbon-14 in the hydroxyethyl side chain, is administered by gavage to rats in doses of 200 mg/kg, an average of 1.4% of the administered radioactivity is recovered in the urine in the form of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid. The presence of conjugated N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid in some samples was suggested by the detection of small additional amounts of the free acid after treatment of the urine with beta-glucuronidase. The metabolite is not found in the feces. In contrast N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid is not found in the urine or feces of germfree rats which receive metronidazole. Thus, the finding of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-oxamic acid in the urine of rats which receive metronidazole appears to depend on the activity of the bacterial flora.", "PMID": 430360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_406", "title": "Dopaminergic control of the septal-hippocampal cholinergic pathway.", "content": "Apomorphine given subcutaneously is known to decrease the turnover rate of acetylcholine (TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. Blockade of dopaminergic receptors by intraseptal haloperidol or destruction of dopaminergic terminals by intraseptal 6-hydroxydopamine results in an increase in TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. Specific destruction of the dopaminergic neurons projecting to the septum by the injection of 6-hydroxydopamine into the A10 mesencephalic cell group also results in an increased TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. None of the above treatments affects TR(ACh) in the cortex. Thus, it appears that dopaminergic neurons exert a tonic inhibitory effect on the ACh metabolism of the septal-hippocampal pathway, but do not affect that of cholinergic neurons projecting from the septum to the cortex. It can be inferred that this decrease in the rate of metabolism may be associated with a regulation of the rate of neuronal firing.", "contents": "Dopaminergic control of the septal-hippocampal cholinergic pathway. Apomorphine given subcutaneously is known to decrease the turnover rate of acetylcholine (TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. Blockade of dopaminergic receptors by intraseptal haloperidol or destruction of dopaminergic terminals by intraseptal 6-hydroxydopamine results in an increase in TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. Specific destruction of the dopaminergic neurons projecting to the septum by the injection of 6-hydroxydopamine into the A10 mesencephalic cell group also results in an increased TR(ACh) in the hippocampus. None of the above treatments affects TR(ACh) in the cortex. Thus, it appears that dopaminergic neurons exert a tonic inhibitory effect on the ACh metabolism of the septal-hippocampal pathway, but do not affect that of cholinergic neurons projecting from the septum to the cortex. It can be inferred that this decrease in the rate of metabolism may be associated with a regulation of the rate of neuronal firing.", "PMID": 430364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_407", "title": "The specificity of antimorphine and antimeperidine antibodies and their reactivity with opioid peptides.", "content": "The specificity of antimorphine and antimeperidine antisera was measured by competitive displacement of immunizing radiolabeled haptens. Antimorphine antisera demonstrated a high degree of specificity for a conformation of the phenylpiperidine moiety contained within the structures of morphine and its congeners of the morphinan and benzomorphan series. Antimeperidine antisera demonstrated a high degree of specificity for a different conformation of the phenylpiperidine moiety represented within the structures of meperidine and its semisynthetic derivatives. The reactivity of methionine- and leucine-enkephalin, several synthetic enkephalin analogs, and alpha- and beta-endorphin with the antibodies was tested using purified immunoglobulin G in order to avoid serum-induced proteolysis. No significant cross-reactivity of antimorphine antibodies with any of the opioid peptides was detected. All of the opioid peptides tested exhibited weak but immunologically specific cross-reactivity with antimeperidine antibodies. These findings suggest that conformations analogous to the phenylpiperidine moiety in morphine as have been proposed for [Tyr1] in opioid peptides do not appear to be present as measured by immunochemical methods. A conformation with weak stereochemical similarity to the phenylpeperidine moiety in meperidine does appear to be present. The possible homologies between [Phe4] of opioid peptides, meperidine and hydrophobic side chains of certain oripavine derivatives are discussed.", "contents": "The specificity of antimorphine and antimeperidine antibodies and their reactivity with opioid peptides. The specificity of antimorphine and antimeperidine antisera was measured by competitive displacement of immunizing radiolabeled haptens. Antimorphine antisera demonstrated a high degree of specificity for a conformation of the phenylpiperidine moiety contained within the structures of morphine and its congeners of the morphinan and benzomorphan series. Antimeperidine antisera demonstrated a high degree of specificity for a different conformation of the phenylpiperidine moiety represented within the structures of meperidine and its semisynthetic derivatives. The reactivity of methionine- and leucine-enkephalin, several synthetic enkephalin analogs, and alpha- and beta-endorphin with the antibodies was tested using purified immunoglobulin G in order to avoid serum-induced proteolysis. No significant cross-reactivity of antimorphine antibodies with any of the opioid peptides was detected. All of the opioid peptides tested exhibited weak but immunologically specific cross-reactivity with antimeperidine antibodies. These findings suggest that conformations analogous to the phenylpiperidine moiety in morphine as have been proposed for [Tyr1] in opioid peptides do not appear to be present as measured by immunochemical methods. A conformation with weak stereochemical similarity to the phenylpeperidine moiety in meperidine does appear to be present. The possible homologies between [Phe4] of opioid peptides, meperidine and hydrophobic side chains of certain oripavine derivatives are discussed.", "PMID": 430366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_408", "title": "Amphetamine- and phenylethylamine-induced alterations in dopamine synthesis regulation in rat brain striatal synaptosomes.", "content": "Amphetamine and phenylethylamine stimulate dopamine synthesis in rat brain striatal synaptosomes via a calcium- and tyrosine-dependent mechanism. The similarity of this stimulation to that produced by depolarizing concentrations of veratridine, along with the non-additivity of maximally stimulating concentrations of amphetamine and veratridine, suggests that these treatments may all share a common locus of action. Differences in exact modes of action can be seen, however, in the blockade only of the stimulation of veratridine by tetrodotoxin, and by the lack of effect of amphetamine or phenylethylamine on tyrosine uptake. At high concentrations, amphetamine and phenylethylamine lose their ability to stimulate dopamine synthesis and produce an antagonism of veratridine-induced synthesis stimulation.", "contents": "Amphetamine- and phenylethylamine-induced alterations in dopamine synthesis regulation in rat brain striatal synaptosomes. Amphetamine and phenylethylamine stimulate dopamine synthesis in rat brain striatal synaptosomes via a calcium- and tyrosine-dependent mechanism. The similarity of this stimulation to that produced by depolarizing concentrations of veratridine, along with the non-additivity of maximally stimulating concentrations of amphetamine and veratridine, suggests that these treatments may all share a common locus of action. Differences in exact modes of action can be seen, however, in the blockade only of the stimulation of veratridine by tetrodotoxin, and by the lack of effect of amphetamine or phenylethylamine on tyrosine uptake. At high concentrations, amphetamine and phenylethylamine lose their ability to stimulate dopamine synthesis and produce an antagonism of veratridine-induced synthesis stimulation.", "PMID": 430370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_409", "title": "Vocalization response to close-arterial injection of bradykinin and other algesic agents in guinea pigs and its application to quantitative assessment of analgesic agents.", "content": "A method for determining the vocalization response to algesic agents in conscious guinea pigs is described. Retrograde injection of small amounts of algesic agents into the femoral artery caused transient but obvious vocalization response in a dose-dependent manner. The vocal sound was converted into electrical signals and the envelope of the sound obtained by a peak detector circuit was recorded on an ink-writing oscillograph. The area of the vocalization response circumscribed by a base line and the envelope tracing of the vocal sound was also recorded. Bradykinin, kallidin, acetylcholine (ACh) and nicotine caused the vocalization response, while substance P, histamine, bethanechol, methacholine, serotonin, kallikrein and prostaglandins E1 and E2 caused no or little response. No detectable tachyphylaxis to bradykinin, ACh and nicotine was observed. The pretreatment with hexamethonium abolished the response induced by ACh or nicotine but not the response induced by bradykinin. These results suggest that the paravascular pain receptor of the femoral artery excited by ACh is nicotinic in character. Subcutaneous injection of morphine, pentazocine, diclofenac and aminopyrine inhibited the vocalization response induced by bradykinin in a dose-dependent manner.", "contents": "Vocalization response to close-arterial injection of bradykinin and other algesic agents in guinea pigs and its application to quantitative assessment of analgesic agents. A method for determining the vocalization response to algesic agents in conscious guinea pigs is described. Retrograde injection of small amounts of algesic agents into the femoral artery caused transient but obvious vocalization response in a dose-dependent manner. The vocal sound was converted into electrical signals and the envelope of the sound obtained by a peak detector circuit was recorded on an ink-writing oscillograph. The area of the vocalization response circumscribed by a base line and the envelope tracing of the vocal sound was also recorded. Bradykinin, kallidin, acetylcholine (ACh) and nicotine caused the vocalization response, while substance P, histamine, bethanechol, methacholine, serotonin, kallikrein and prostaglandins E1 and E2 caused no or little response. No detectable tachyphylaxis to bradykinin, ACh and nicotine was observed. The pretreatment with hexamethonium abolished the response induced by ACh or nicotine but not the response induced by bradykinin. These results suggest that the paravascular pain receptor of the femoral artery excited by ACh is nicotinic in character. Subcutaneous injection of morphine, pentazocine, diclofenac and aminopyrine inhibited the vocalization response induced by bradykinin in a dose-dependent manner.", "PMID": 430371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_410", "title": "SC 25152: a potent mineralocorticoid antagonist with decreased antiandrogenic activity relative to spironolactone.", "content": "The widely used mineralocorticoid antagonist spironolactone has antiandrogenic activity that may contribute to its side effects of decreased libido, impotence and gynecomastia. We have therefore sought a less antiandrogenic analog of spironolactone that may exhibit reduced endocrine side effects. The analog SC 25152 was chosen for pharmacological testing because of the previous observation that it has considerably reduced affinity for the androgen receptor of both man and rat but exhibits an affinity for the mineralocorticoid receptor similar to that of spironolactone. Bioassays in the rat show that SC 25152 has a 60% decrease in antiandrogenicity, and a 4-fold increase in antimineralocorticoid activity compared to spironolactone, resulting in an overall reduction of antiandrogenic activity to one-tenth that of spironolactone at doses giving equal antimineralocorticoid activity. These studies demonstrate that the antiandrogenic and antimineralocorticoid activities of spironolactone analogs can be dissociated and illustrates the utility of measurements of drug-receptor interaction to identify a compound with desired pharmacological properties.", "contents": "SC 25152: a potent mineralocorticoid antagonist with decreased antiandrogenic activity relative to spironolactone. The widely used mineralocorticoid antagonist spironolactone has antiandrogenic activity that may contribute to its side effects of decreased libido, impotence and gynecomastia. We have therefore sought a less antiandrogenic analog of spironolactone that may exhibit reduced endocrine side effects. The analog SC 25152 was chosen for pharmacological testing because of the previous observation that it has considerably reduced affinity for the androgen receptor of both man and rat but exhibits an affinity for the mineralocorticoid receptor similar to that of spironolactone. Bioassays in the rat show that SC 25152 has a 60% decrease in antiandrogenicity, and a 4-fold increase in antimineralocorticoid activity compared to spironolactone, resulting in an overall reduction of antiandrogenic activity to one-tenth that of spironolactone at doses giving equal antimineralocorticoid activity. These studies demonstrate that the antiandrogenic and antimineralocorticoid activities of spironolactone analogs can be dissociated and illustrates the utility of measurements of drug-receptor interaction to identify a compound with desired pharmacological properties.", "PMID": 430374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_411", "title": "Ryanodine: its alterations of cat papillary muscle contractile state and responsiveness to inotropic interventions and a suggested mechanism of action.", "content": "Cat right ventricular papillary muscles responded biphasically to cumulative additions of ryanodine. A progressive and pronounced negative inotropic effect was observed with low to intermediate ryanodine concentrations (5 nM-1 muM) while a rebound or reversal of these initial changes back toward pre-drug values was obtained as the ryanodine concentration was further increased to 100 muM. Active force development (DF), the rate of force development (dF/dt), as well as the rate of relaxation all exhibited these bidirectional changes. In contrast, time to peak force underwent only a progressive prolongation over the entire concentration range tested. This response pattern was observed with both normal and K+-depolarized (isoproterenol- or dibutyryl cAMP-restored) preparations. The response to a single addition of 100 muM ryanodine, in the presence of 2.5 mM Ca++ mimicked both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the cumulative concentration response curve. In the presence of 5.0 mM Ca++ the high concentration of ryanodine no longer caused depression but instead caused only a slowly developing, monophasic increase in DF. Ryanodine also changed the response of ventricular muscle to other inotropic interventions. Ryanodine (1 muM; 2.5 mM Ca++) abolished the normal increase in dF/dt following either paired electrical stimulation (PES) or 50 mOsM mannitol, but not that in response to a doubling of the stimulation rate (0.2--0.4 Hz). After ryanodine exposure, the potentiation of developed force by PES was shifted from the first (regular) to the second (premature) contraction, producing a summation-like waveform. Prior addition of the calcium channel antagonist D600 (1 muM) did not alter ryanodine-induced changes in PES. Caffeine (1 mM) produced alterations in the responses to PES and hyperosmolarity which were similar to those observed with ryanodine. In the presence of high concentrations of both ryanodine (100 muM) and calcium (5 mM) both the transient and steady-state responses to a doubling of the stimulation rate (0.2--0.4 Hz) were markedly depressed, whereas the decrease in DF or dF/dt normally accompanying a reduction in the rate of stimulation was attenuated. The data obtained in the present study are consistent with a functional inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticular calcium release by ryanodine.", "contents": "Ryanodine: its alterations of cat papillary muscle contractile state and responsiveness to inotropic interventions and a suggested mechanism of action. Cat right ventricular papillary muscles responded biphasically to cumulative additions of ryanodine. A progressive and pronounced negative inotropic effect was observed with low to intermediate ryanodine concentrations (5 nM-1 muM) while a rebound or reversal of these initial changes back toward pre-drug values was obtained as the ryanodine concentration was further increased to 100 muM. Active force development (DF), the rate of force development (dF/dt), as well as the rate of relaxation all exhibited these bidirectional changes. In contrast, time to peak force underwent only a progressive prolongation over the entire concentration range tested. This response pattern was observed with both normal and K+-depolarized (isoproterenol- or dibutyryl cAMP-restored) preparations. The response to a single addition of 100 muM ryanodine, in the presence of 2.5 mM Ca++ mimicked both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the cumulative concentration response curve. In the presence of 5.0 mM Ca++ the high concentration of ryanodine no longer caused depression but instead caused only a slowly developing, monophasic increase in DF. Ryanodine also changed the response of ventricular muscle to other inotropic interventions. Ryanodine (1 muM; 2.5 mM Ca++) abolished the normal increase in dF/dt following either paired electrical stimulation (PES) or 50 mOsM mannitol, but not that in response to a doubling of the stimulation rate (0.2--0.4 Hz). After ryanodine exposure, the potentiation of developed force by PES was shifted from the first (regular) to the second (premature) contraction, producing a summation-like waveform. Prior addition of the calcium channel antagonist D600 (1 muM) did not alter ryanodine-induced changes in PES. Caffeine (1 mM) produced alterations in the responses to PES and hyperosmolarity which were similar to those observed with ryanodine. In the presence of high concentrations of both ryanodine (100 muM) and calcium (5 mM) both the transient and steady-state responses to a doubling of the stimulation rate (0.2--0.4 Hz) were markedly depressed, whereas the decrease in DF or dF/dt normally accompanying a reduction in the rate of stimulation was attenuated. The data obtained in the present study are consistent with a functional inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticular calcium release by ryanodine.", "PMID": 430377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_412", "title": "Effects of sodium nitroprusside, isosorbide dinitrate, isoproterenol, phentolamine and prazosin on hepatic venous responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation in the cat.", "content": "Hepatic blood volume was recorded by a plethysmographic technique in cats anesthetized with pentobarbital. The effects of three doses of each vasodilator drug were measured on arterial and portal pressures, hepatic blood volume in the denervated liver and on the portal pressure and hepatic venous responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation. Isosorbide dinitrate caused a small reduction in basal hepatic venous tone increasing hepatic blood volume by up to 15%; it had no effect on the responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation. Isoproterenol increased hepatic venous tone perhaps by stimulation of angiotensin formation and the responses to stimulation of the hepatic nerves were reduced because of this increased basal tone. Sodium nitroprusside produced a small decrease in basal venous tone and only large doses produced any reduction in the venous responses to hepatic nerve stimulation. The evidence that nitroprusside is a venodilator requires reexamination. Phentolamine had no effect on basal venous tone but markedly reduced the responses to sympathetic nerve stimulatiqn. When compared to phentolamine, prazosin produced comparable effects on arterial pressure but much less reduction in the hepatic venous responses to sympathetic stimulation. It is suggested that the alpha receptor blocking action of prazosin is selective for arterioles and this may explain the minor incidence of postural hypotension during clinical use.", "contents": "Effects of sodium nitroprusside, isosorbide dinitrate, isoproterenol, phentolamine and prazosin on hepatic venous responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation in the cat. Hepatic blood volume was recorded by a plethysmographic technique in cats anesthetized with pentobarbital. The effects of three doses of each vasodilator drug were measured on arterial and portal pressures, hepatic blood volume in the denervated liver and on the portal pressure and hepatic venous responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation. Isosorbide dinitrate caused a small reduction in basal hepatic venous tone increasing hepatic blood volume by up to 15%; it had no effect on the responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation. Isoproterenol increased hepatic venous tone perhaps by stimulation of angiotensin formation and the responses to stimulation of the hepatic nerves were reduced because of this increased basal tone. Sodium nitroprusside produced a small decrease in basal venous tone and only large doses produced any reduction in the venous responses to hepatic nerve stimulation. The evidence that nitroprusside is a venodilator requires reexamination. Phentolamine had no effect on basal venous tone but markedly reduced the responses to sympathetic nerve stimulatiqn. When compared to phentolamine, prazosin produced comparable effects on arterial pressure but much less reduction in the hepatic venous responses to sympathetic stimulation. It is suggested that the alpha receptor blocking action of prazosin is selective for arterioles and this may explain the minor incidence of postural hypotension during clinical use.", "PMID": 430378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_413", "title": "Mossy and climbing fibre mediated responses evoked in the cerebellar cortex of the cat by trigeminal afferent stimulation.", "content": "1. The trigeminal input to the cerebellar cortex was studied by recording mass and unitary resonses evoked by electrical stimulation of individual trigeminal cutaneous and muscle nerve branches, in cats lightly anaesthetized with sodium thiopentone. 2. The trigeminal projection area of the cerebellar cortex comprised essentially lobule HVI, but included adjacent folia of lobules HV and HVIIA. 3. Each trigeminal branch had a 'patchy' representation throughout the projection area and there was extensive convergence of individual afferents at each site. Exact combinations of convergent inputs varied between loci, the projection from the muscle nerve being weaker. No other differential representation of individual trigeminal branches was evident. 4. Responses were evoked by stimulation of both ipsi- and contralateral trigeminal afferents but contralateral projections were present at fewer sites. 5. Mass responses to stimulation of individual trigeminal branches comprised mossy fibre and climbing fibre-mediated potentials, although both components were not always present. Latencies for mossy and climbing fibre responses, evoked by ipsilateral nerve stimulation, were in the ranges 5--8 msec and 11--29 msec respectively. 6. Unitary responses of Purkinje cells activiated by trigeminal inputs also revealed convergence from individual ipsilateral afferent sources (28% influenced by one ipsilateral trigeminal branch, 48% by two branches, 17% by three branches and 7% by four branches). 7. Response patterns comprised one or more of the following: short latency (3--8 msec) simple, mossy fibre-mediated spikes, 'delayed' (10--25 msec) simple spikes and climbing fibre-mediated multiple spike bursts (9--35 msec).", "contents": "Mossy and climbing fibre mediated responses evoked in the cerebellar cortex of the cat by trigeminal afferent stimulation. 1. The trigeminal input to the cerebellar cortex was studied by recording mass and unitary resonses evoked by electrical stimulation of individual trigeminal cutaneous and muscle nerve branches, in cats lightly anaesthetized with sodium thiopentone. 2. The trigeminal projection area of the cerebellar cortex comprised essentially lobule HVI, but included adjacent folia of lobules HV and HVIIA. 3. Each trigeminal branch had a 'patchy' representation throughout the projection area and there was extensive convergence of individual afferents at each site. Exact combinations of convergent inputs varied between loci, the projection from the muscle nerve being weaker. No other differential representation of individual trigeminal branches was evident. 4. Responses were evoked by stimulation of both ipsi- and contralateral trigeminal afferents but contralateral projections were present at fewer sites. 5. Mass responses to stimulation of individual trigeminal branches comprised mossy fibre and climbing fibre-mediated potentials, although both components were not always present. Latencies for mossy and climbing fibre responses, evoked by ipsilateral nerve stimulation, were in the ranges 5--8 msec and 11--29 msec respectively. 6. Unitary responses of Purkinje cells activiated by trigeminal inputs also revealed convergence from individual ipsilateral afferent sources (28% influenced by one ipsilateral trigeminal branch, 48% by two branches, 17% by three branches and 7% by four branches). 7. Response patterns comprised one or more of the following: short latency (3--8 msec) simple, mossy fibre-mediated spikes, 'delayed' (10--25 msec) simple spikes and climbing fibre-mediated multiple spike bursts (9--35 msec).", "PMID": 430382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_414", "title": "The effect of carbon dioxide upon myocardial contractile performance, blood flow and oxygen consumption.", "content": "1. Mongrel dogs were anaesthetized with chloralose, paralysed, ventilated and vagotomized and given a beta-blocking drug, sotalol, in sufficient doses to block the effects of 5 microgram of adrenaline. 2. Changes in inspired CO2 concentration were produced, causing increases of arterial PCO2 up to 120 mmHg. The effects on myocardial blood flow were measured with radioactive microspheres. Coronary sinus and arterial blood was sampled. 3. In the absence of beta-blockade, an increase in arterial PCO2 produced variable effects. In some dogs coronary blood flow increased, while in others there was no change. There was a mean increase in coronary blood flow at arterial PCO2 values above 85 mmHg which was abolished by beta-blockade. 4. In the presence of beta-blockade, an increase of arterial PCO2 produced depression of left ventricular performance, i.e. a fall of maximum rate of rise of left ventricular pressure and a rise of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. 5. In the presence of beta-blockade, there were no consistent changes in myocardial blood flow, left ventricular pressure or cardiac output. 6. In the absence of beta-blockade, coronary arterial minus venous ocygen content was reduced by hypercapnia. In the presence of beta-blockade, the changes were small and not statistically significant. The direct coronary vasodilator effect was therfore negligible. 7. It is concluded that the previously reported hypercapnic vasodilatation was mainly an effect of sympatho-adrenergic stimulation by hypercapnia. 8. In the presence of beta-blockade, coronary sinus PO2 increased markedly, with little change in coronary sinus oxygen content; this was consistent with a shift to the right of the oxy-haemoglobin dissociation curve. Under circumstances of hypercapnia, a rise in coronary sinus (and presumably tissue) PO2 failed to produce vasoconstriction. 9. It is argued that the vasodilator effect of hydrogen ions and the vasoconstrictor effect of oxygen probably cancel one another when the arterial PCO2 is raised.", "contents": "The effect of carbon dioxide upon myocardial contractile performance, blood flow and oxygen consumption. 1. Mongrel dogs were anaesthetized with chloralose, paralysed, ventilated and vagotomized and given a beta-blocking drug, sotalol, in sufficient doses to block the effects of 5 microgram of adrenaline. 2. Changes in inspired CO2 concentration were produced, causing increases of arterial PCO2 up to 120 mmHg. The effects on myocardial blood flow were measured with radioactive microspheres. Coronary sinus and arterial blood was sampled. 3. In the absence of beta-blockade, an increase in arterial PCO2 produced variable effects. In some dogs coronary blood flow increased, while in others there was no change. There was a mean increase in coronary blood flow at arterial PCO2 values above 85 mmHg which was abolished by beta-blockade. 4. In the presence of beta-blockade, an increase of arterial PCO2 produced depression of left ventricular performance, i.e. a fall of maximum rate of rise of left ventricular pressure and a rise of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. 5. In the presence of beta-blockade, there were no consistent changes in myocardial blood flow, left ventricular pressure or cardiac output. 6. In the absence of beta-blockade, coronary arterial minus venous ocygen content was reduced by hypercapnia. In the presence of beta-blockade, the changes were small and not statistically significant. The direct coronary vasodilator effect was therfore negligible. 7. It is concluded that the previously reported hypercapnic vasodilatation was mainly an effect of sympatho-adrenergic stimulation by hypercapnia. 8. In the presence of beta-blockade, coronary sinus PO2 increased markedly, with little change in coronary sinus oxygen content; this was consistent with a shift to the right of the oxy-haemoglobin dissociation curve. Under circumstances of hypercapnia, a rise in coronary sinus (and presumably tissue) PO2 failed to produce vasoconstriction. 9. It is argued that the vasodilator effect of hydrogen ions and the vasoconstrictor effect of oxygen probably cancel one another when the arterial PCO2 is raised.", "PMID": 430387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_415", "title": "The relation between net calcium, alkali cation and chloride movements in red cells exposed to salicylate.", "content": "1. From a 150 mM-NH4 salicylate medium salicylate enters human red cells with a rate constant of 1.9 min-1 at 0 degrees C. 2. Salicylate increases the red cell permeability for Ca2+ (and Mg2+). There is no saturation of the Ca2+ transfer with respect to salicylate up to 150 mM and with respect to external Ca2+ up to 30 mM. 3. Ca2+ entering from salicylate media activates the Ca-sensitive K channel present in human but not in adult ruminant red cells. 4. The increase in K permeability which ensues hyperpolarizes the membrane in Na salicylate media, accelerating further Ca2+ entry and Mg2+ entry and favouring Cl- loss (see Fig. 8). The Ca2+ inward movement is in agreement with the constant field equation if the membrane potential is assumed to equal the K equilibrium potential and if two charges are attributed to the mobile species. 5. The effect of salicylate on Ca2+ permeability and hence its sequelae are reversible upon washing the cells. 6. 3-OH-benzoic acid and 4-OH-benzoic acid do not exert the effect salicylate has on Ca2+ permeability. 7. In 150 mM-Na salicylate media the Cl--salicylate exchange is virtually nil at 0 degrees C. The exchange seen at 19 degrees C is obviously not across the anion exchange mechanism and proceeds at a rate comparable to that for Cl- movement in the nonexchange-restricted mode given by Hunter (1971, 1977) for cells in a normal medium. 8. Ca2+ seems to increase the Cl- permeability seen under these conditions. 9. The possibility that salicylate acts as an ionophore for Ca2+ is discussed.", "contents": "The relation between net calcium, alkali cation and chloride movements in red cells exposed to salicylate. 1. From a 150 mM-NH4 salicylate medium salicylate enters human red cells with a rate constant of 1.9 min-1 at 0 degrees C. 2. Salicylate increases the red cell permeability for Ca2+ (and Mg2+). There is no saturation of the Ca2+ transfer with respect to salicylate up to 150 mM and with respect to external Ca2+ up to 30 mM. 3. Ca2+ entering from salicylate media activates the Ca-sensitive K channel present in human but not in adult ruminant red cells. 4. The increase in K permeability which ensues hyperpolarizes the membrane in Na salicylate media, accelerating further Ca2+ entry and Mg2+ entry and favouring Cl- loss (see Fig. 8). The Ca2+ inward movement is in agreement with the constant field equation if the membrane potential is assumed to equal the K equilibrium potential and if two charges are attributed to the mobile species. 5. The effect of salicylate on Ca2+ permeability and hence its sequelae are reversible upon washing the cells. 6. 3-OH-benzoic acid and 4-OH-benzoic acid do not exert the effect salicylate has on Ca2+ permeability. 7. In 150 mM-Na salicylate media the Cl--salicylate exchange is virtually nil at 0 degrees C. The exchange seen at 19 degrees C is obviously not across the anion exchange mechanism and proceeds at a rate comparable to that for Cl- movement in the nonexchange-restricted mode given by Hunter (1971, 1977) for cells in a normal medium. 8. Ca2+ seems to increase the Cl- permeability seen under these conditions. 9. The possibility that salicylate acts as an ionophore for Ca2+ is discussed.", "PMID": 430388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_416", "title": "Relationship between spatial frequency selectivity and receptive field profile of simple cells.", "content": "1. Receptive fields of simple cells in area 17 of the cat were mapped with stationary stimuli. Spatial frequency selectivities of the same cells were measured with drifting sinusoidal gratings. 2. The reconstructed field profile (inverse Fourier transform of selectivity curve) shows qualitative agreement with the mapped profile, and suggests the existence of additional side-lobes in the field. The side-lobes may correspond to the 'unresponsive regions' investigated by Maffei & Fiorentini (1976). 3. Our data suggest that the simple cell may perform approximately linear spatial summation of inputs to the visual system. However, the output of the simple cell is generally non-linear as reflected in its truncated responses to gratings.", "contents": "Relationship between spatial frequency selectivity and receptive field profile of simple cells. 1. Receptive fields of simple cells in area 17 of the cat were mapped with stationary stimuli. Spatial frequency selectivities of the same cells were measured with drifting sinusoidal gratings. 2. The reconstructed field profile (inverse Fourier transform of selectivity curve) shows qualitative agreement with the mapped profile, and suggests the existence of additional side-lobes in the field. The side-lobes may correspond to the 'unresponsive regions' investigated by Maffei & Fiorentini (1976). 3. Our data suggest that the simple cell may perform approximately linear spatial summation of inputs to the visual system. However, the output of the simple cell is generally non-linear as reflected in its truncated responses to gratings.", "PMID": 430391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_417", "title": "Sympathetic control of lower oesophageal sphincter motility in the cat.", "content": "1. The action of adrenaline, noradrenaline and efferent sympathetic fibres on the smooth muscle of the lower oesophageal sphincter (l.o.s.) was studied in vivo on the anaesthetized cat and in vitro with the sucrose gap method. 2. Adrenaline and noradrenaline produce a marked depolarization of the circular muscle of the l.o.s. This effect is suppressed by dihydroergotamine or phentolamine, and greatly reduced by atropine; it remains unaltered by hexamethonium. 3. Sympathetic fibres are excitatory for the l.o.s. They come from the stellate ganglion or run along the splanchnic nerve: the fibres arising from the stellate ganglion (mainly by the cardiac branch of the ganglion) join the vagus nerve at the thoracic level; the fibres running along the splanchnic nerve pass through the coeliac ganglion without synapsing; their cellular bodies lie probably in the ganglia of the sympathetic chain. 4. Repetitive stimulation (20--40 Hz) of these fibres induce, with a latency of 5--8 sec, a sustained or rhythmic contraction of the l.o.s. This response is suppressed by dihydroergotamine, and greatly reduced by atropine, while hexamethonium has no effect. 5. Stimulation of sympathetic fibres induces a facilitation of the vagal excitatory responses and an inhibition of the vagal inhibitory responses of the l.o.s. 6. Our data show that the sympathetic response of the l.o.s. results from the stimulation of adrenergic receptors which are located not only on muscular fibres but also, and chiefly, on intrinsic neurones. Thus, the sympathetic control of the l.o.s. is mainly exerted through cholinergic myenteric neurones which could be excited either directly or indirectly by inhibition of inhibitory intrinsic neurones.", "contents": "Sympathetic control of lower oesophageal sphincter motility in the cat. 1. The action of adrenaline, noradrenaline and efferent sympathetic fibres on the smooth muscle of the lower oesophageal sphincter (l.o.s.) was studied in vivo on the anaesthetized cat and in vitro with the sucrose gap method. 2. Adrenaline and noradrenaline produce a marked depolarization of the circular muscle of the l.o.s. This effect is suppressed by dihydroergotamine or phentolamine, and greatly reduced by atropine; it remains unaltered by hexamethonium. 3. Sympathetic fibres are excitatory for the l.o.s. They come from the stellate ganglion or run along the splanchnic nerve: the fibres arising from the stellate ganglion (mainly by the cardiac branch of the ganglion) join the vagus nerve at the thoracic level; the fibres running along the splanchnic nerve pass through the coeliac ganglion without synapsing; their cellular bodies lie probably in the ganglia of the sympathetic chain. 4. Repetitive stimulation (20--40 Hz) of these fibres induce, with a latency of 5--8 sec, a sustained or rhythmic contraction of the l.o.s. This response is suppressed by dihydroergotamine, and greatly reduced by atropine, while hexamethonium has no effect. 5. Stimulation of sympathetic fibres induces a facilitation of the vagal excitatory responses and an inhibition of the vagal inhibitory responses of the l.o.s. 6. Our data show that the sympathetic response of the l.o.s. results from the stimulation of adrenergic receptors which are located not only on muscular fibres but also, and chiefly, on intrinsic neurones. Thus, the sympathetic control of the l.o.s. is mainly exerted through cholinergic myenteric neurones which could be excited either directly or indirectly by inhibition of inhibitory intrinsic neurones.", "PMID": 430393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_418", "title": "Graded changes in central chemoceptor input by local temperature changes on the ventral surface of medulla.", "content": "1. In cats under pentobarbitone anaesthesia the effects of focal temperature changes of the ;chemoceptive' areas on the ventral surface of medulla, described by Loeschcke and his associates, were studied with respect to tidal volume, V(T), tidal variation in efferent phrenic activity, Phr(T), and respiratory rate. The cats were either paralysed and ventilated at various constant P(A,CO2) and P(a,O2) levels, or breathing spontaneously.2. It was confirmed that focal bilateral cooling of the intermediate, ;I((S))', areas caused rapid depression of respiration even at constant artificial ventilation. In normocapnic and normoxic conditions apnoea usually ensued at brain surface temperatures of 20-22 degrees C.3. The effects were graded along continuous temperature-response curves with enhancements of ventilation above and depression below normal body temperature.4. The strongest effects on V(T) and Phr(T) were obtained from the I((S)) areas with no or only small effects on inspiratory or expiratory timing in the vagotomized animal. The Hering-Breuer inflation reflex and its effects on timing and amplitudes were not affected by cooling this area.5. Focal cooling of the caudal or the rostral ;chemoceptive' areas, ;C((L))' and ;R((M))' areas, caused smaller effects on V(T) and Phr(T) but produced significant effects on respiratory rate even after vagotomy.6. The effects of focal cooling of these areas could be mimicked by topical application of procaine solution which has been shown not to penetrate deeper than 100 mum from the surface.7. Moderate focal cooling of area I((S)) to temperatures above 28-30 degrees C caused a parallel shift in the CO(2)-response (V(T), Phr(T)) curves to the right with little change in slope. The P(CO2) thresholds for apnoea were correspondingly raised. These focal temperature effects could be compensated by changes in P(CO2) with, on the average, 2.7 torr/ degrees C. Focal temperatures below 28 degrees C usually caused some decrease in slope of the CO(2)-response curves in addition to further shifts.8. Added hypoxic stimulus or electrical stimulation of the carotid sinus nerves caused an almost parallel increase of Phr(T) at all P(CO2) levels and all focal temperatures suggesting an additive type of interaction between the input from the peripheral chemoreceptors and that from the central (CO(2), H(+)) sensing structures whether the latter was altered by changing P(CO2) or by focal temperature changes on the I((S)) areas.9. In contrast to these effects of hypoxia and stimulation of the carotid sinus nerves the reflex increase of inspiratory activity caused by lung deflation or by electrical stimulation of the glossopharyngeal nerve distal to the carotid sinus nerves was CO(2) dependent. These reflex effects decreased with focal cooling of the I((S)) areas as with hypocapnia, suggesting a mainly multiplicative or ;gain-changing' type of interaction with the central chemoceptive drive.10. The close similarities in effect of focal cooling and of hypocapnia on the different respiratory parameters even during constant artificial ventilation indicate that focal temperature changes of the I((S)) areas intervene effectively with the normal ventilatory response to CO(2) without changing the chemical or physical environment of those neural structures in the brain stem which set respiratory pattern.", "contents": "Graded changes in central chemoceptor input by local temperature changes on the ventral surface of medulla. 1. In cats under pentobarbitone anaesthesia the effects of focal temperature changes of the ;chemoceptive' areas on the ventral surface of medulla, described by Loeschcke and his associates, were studied with respect to tidal volume, V(T), tidal variation in efferent phrenic activity, Phr(T), and respiratory rate. The cats were either paralysed and ventilated at various constant P(A,CO2) and P(a,O2) levels, or breathing spontaneously.2. It was confirmed that focal bilateral cooling of the intermediate, ;I((S))', areas caused rapid depression of respiration even at constant artificial ventilation. In normocapnic and normoxic conditions apnoea usually ensued at brain surface temperatures of 20-22 degrees C.3. The effects were graded along continuous temperature-response curves with enhancements of ventilation above and depression below normal body temperature.4. The strongest effects on V(T) and Phr(T) were obtained from the I((S)) areas with no or only small effects on inspiratory or expiratory timing in the vagotomized animal. The Hering-Breuer inflation reflex and its effects on timing and amplitudes were not affected by cooling this area.5. Focal cooling of the caudal or the rostral ;chemoceptive' areas, ;C((L))' and ;R((M))' areas, caused smaller effects on V(T) and Phr(T) but produced significant effects on respiratory rate even after vagotomy.6. The effects of focal cooling of these areas could be mimicked by topical application of procaine solution which has been shown not to penetrate deeper than 100 mum from the surface.7. Moderate focal cooling of area I((S)) to temperatures above 28-30 degrees C caused a parallel shift in the CO(2)-response (V(T), Phr(T)) curves to the right with little change in slope. The P(CO2) thresholds for apnoea were correspondingly raised. These focal temperature effects could be compensated by changes in P(CO2) with, on the average, 2.7 torr/ degrees C. Focal temperatures below 28 degrees C usually caused some decrease in slope of the CO(2)-response curves in addition to further shifts.8. Added hypoxic stimulus or electrical stimulation of the carotid sinus nerves caused an almost parallel increase of Phr(T) at all P(CO2) levels and all focal temperatures suggesting an additive type of interaction between the input from the peripheral chemoreceptors and that from the central (CO(2), H(+)) sensing structures whether the latter was altered by changing P(CO2) or by focal temperature changes on the I((S)) areas.9. In contrast to these effects of hypoxia and stimulation of the carotid sinus nerves the reflex increase of inspiratory activity caused by lung deflation or by electrical stimulation of the glossopharyngeal nerve distal to the carotid sinus nerves was CO(2) dependent. These reflex effects decreased with focal cooling of the I((S)) areas as with hypocapnia, suggesting a mainly multiplicative or ;gain-changing' type of interaction with the central chemoceptive drive.10. The close similarities in effect of focal cooling and of hypocapnia on the different respiratory parameters even during constant artificial ventilation indicate that focal temperature changes of the I((S)) areas intervene effectively with the normal ventilatory response to CO(2) without changing the chemical or physical environment of those neural structures in the brain stem which set respiratory pattern.", "PMID": 430396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_419", "title": "End-plate currents and acetylcholine noise at normal and myasthenic human end-plates.", "content": "1. The amplitudes and time courses of miniature end-plate currents (m.e.p.c.s) have been compared at normal and myasthenic (MG) human end-plates studied under voltage clamp. The m.e.p.c. amplitude at MG end-plates is reduced to about one third normal; mean m.e.p.c. (normal) = 2.6 +/- 0.2 nA, mean m.e.p.c. (MG) = 1.0 +/- 0.1 nA. The decay time constant of m.e.p.c.s (tau m.e.p.c.) is very similar at normal and MG end-plates; tau m.e.p.c. (normal) = 1.70 +/- 0.1 msec, tau m.e.p.c. (MG) = 1.80 +/- 0.13 msec (Vm = - 80 mV. T = 23 degrees C). 2. The equilibrium potential of the end-plate current (e.p.c.) at normal and myasthenic human end-plates is close to 0 mV. 3. Decay time constants tau e.p.c. and tau m.e.p.c. increase exponentially with membrane hyperpolarization. The voltage sensitivity of the time constants was similar at normal and MG end-plates. 4. Both normal and myasthenic e.p.c.s are greatly prolonged in the presence of neostigmine (10(-6) g/ml.). At the same time the voltage sensitivity of tau e.p.c. is slightly reduced. 5. In response to steady ionophoretically applied ACh the mean membrane currents obtained at MG end-plates were smaller than the normal under similar conditions. 6. Analysis of end-plate current noise obtained during the steady application of acetylcholine (ACh) to voltage clamped normal and MG human end-plates showed that the amplitude of the elementary current event (gamma) and the average channel life-fime (tau noise) was similar at the two sites: tau noise (normal) - 1.54 +/- 0.04 msec, tau noise (MG) = 1.60 +/- 0.11 msec; gamma(normal) - 22.3 +/- 1.57 PS, gamma (MG) = 20.25 +/- 1.93 pS (Vm = - 80 mV, T = 23 degrees C). The voltage sensitivity of the channel life time, measured from end-plate current noise, was similar at normal and MG end-plates. 7. At normal human end-plates a packet of transmitter opens about 1500 channels whereas at MG end-plates a packet opens only about 600 channels. It is calculated that the size of the transmitter packets released from MG-terminals is at least as large as the packet of the ACh released from normal human nerve terminals.", "contents": "End-plate currents and acetylcholine noise at normal and myasthenic human end-plates. 1. The amplitudes and time courses of miniature end-plate currents (m.e.p.c.s) have been compared at normal and myasthenic (MG) human end-plates studied under voltage clamp. The m.e.p.c. amplitude at MG end-plates is reduced to about one third normal; mean m.e.p.c. (normal) = 2.6 +/- 0.2 nA, mean m.e.p.c. (MG) = 1.0 +/- 0.1 nA. The decay time constant of m.e.p.c.s (tau m.e.p.c.) is very similar at normal and MG end-plates; tau m.e.p.c. (normal) = 1.70 +/- 0.1 msec, tau m.e.p.c. (MG) = 1.80 +/- 0.13 msec (Vm = - 80 mV. T = 23 degrees C). 2. The equilibrium potential of the end-plate current (e.p.c.) at normal and myasthenic human end-plates is close to 0 mV. 3. Decay time constants tau e.p.c. and tau m.e.p.c. increase exponentially with membrane hyperpolarization. The voltage sensitivity of the time constants was similar at normal and MG end-plates. 4. Both normal and myasthenic e.p.c.s are greatly prolonged in the presence of neostigmine (10(-6) g/ml.). At the same time the voltage sensitivity of tau e.p.c. is slightly reduced. 5. In response to steady ionophoretically applied ACh the mean membrane currents obtained at MG end-plates were smaller than the normal under similar conditions. 6. Analysis of end-plate current noise obtained during the steady application of acetylcholine (ACh) to voltage clamped normal and MG human end-plates showed that the amplitude of the elementary current event (gamma) and the average channel life-fime (tau noise) was similar at the two sites: tau noise (normal) - 1.54 +/- 0.04 msec, tau noise (MG) = 1.60 +/- 0.11 msec; gamma(normal) - 22.3 +/- 1.57 PS, gamma (MG) = 20.25 +/- 1.93 pS (Vm = - 80 mV, T = 23 degrees C). The voltage sensitivity of the channel life time, measured from end-plate current noise, was similar at normal and MG end-plates. 7. At normal human end-plates a packet of transmitter opens about 1500 channels whereas at MG end-plates a packet opens only about 600 channels. It is calculated that the size of the transmitter packets released from MG-terminals is at least as large as the packet of the ACh released from normal human nerve terminals.", "PMID": 430403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_420", "title": "Photoresponses of a sensitive extraretinal photoreceptor in Aplysia.", "content": "1. The light-evoked membrane current, photo-current, of an extraretinal photo-receptor, the ventral photoresponsive neurone (v.p.n.), in the abdominal ganglion of Aplysia californica, was studied using the voltage clamp method. Flashes and steps of monochromatic light were used as stimuli. 2. Flashes of light 100 msec in duration elicit slowly developing outward currents which peak at 5--10 sec and then return to dark levels within 30--60 sec. 3. The peak of the action spectrum of v.p.n. is at 470 nm and is similar to the peak for R2, another photoresponsive extraretinal Aplysia neurone, and to the peak of absorption spectra of molluscan rhodopsins. V.p.n. also contains membrane-bound cytoplasmic pigmented granules similar to those found in R2, and these are thought to mediate the light response. 4. Photo-current is associated with an increase in membrane conductance. In normal sea water photo-current has a reversal potential at the K equilibrium potential, EK and the reversal potential has a Nernstian relationship with external K concentration. The current--voltage relationships for peak and steady-state photo-current are fitted by the same constant field equation; currents measured when voltage was changed in steps at peak photo-current also have a similar relationship with voltage. The results are similar when saturating or non-saturating light intensities were used. Thus it appears that the light-activated K+ conductance is neither time nor voltage dependent. 5. Minimally detectable responses occurred at flash photon densities of 10(12) photons cm-2 which is 10(-3) that for R2. This value is comparable to those reported for retinal photoreceptors of Pecten irradians, a scallop, and Salpa democratica, a pelagic tunicate, and is lower than values reported for extraretinal photoreceptors such as the pineal photoreceptors of Salmo gairdnerii irideus, the rainbow trout, and the caudal photoreceptor in the sixth abdominal ganglion of Procambarus clarkii, a crayfish. 6. V.p.n. has a linear amplitude response range for low intensities of light and a non-linear range that saturates at high intensities. In the accompanying paper the response wave form and its temperature dependence are interpreted according to a diffusion-based model.", "contents": "Photoresponses of a sensitive extraretinal photoreceptor in Aplysia. 1. The light-evoked membrane current, photo-current, of an extraretinal photo-receptor, the ventral photoresponsive neurone (v.p.n.), in the abdominal ganglion of Aplysia californica, was studied using the voltage clamp method. Flashes and steps of monochromatic light were used as stimuli. 2. Flashes of light 100 msec in duration elicit slowly developing outward currents which peak at 5--10 sec and then return to dark levels within 30--60 sec. 3. The peak of the action spectrum of v.p.n. is at 470 nm and is similar to the peak for R2, another photoresponsive extraretinal Aplysia neurone, and to the peak of absorption spectra of molluscan rhodopsins. V.p.n. also contains membrane-bound cytoplasmic pigmented granules similar to those found in R2, and these are thought to mediate the light response. 4. Photo-current is associated with an increase in membrane conductance. In normal sea water photo-current has a reversal potential at the K equilibrium potential, EK and the reversal potential has a Nernstian relationship with external K concentration. The current--voltage relationships for peak and steady-state photo-current are fitted by the same constant field equation; currents measured when voltage was changed in steps at peak photo-current also have a similar relationship with voltage. The results are similar when saturating or non-saturating light intensities were used. Thus it appears that the light-activated K+ conductance is neither time nor voltage dependent. 5. Minimally detectable responses occurred at flash photon densities of 10(12) photons cm-2 which is 10(-3) that for R2. This value is comparable to those reported for retinal photoreceptors of Pecten irradians, a scallop, and Salpa democratica, a pelagic tunicate, and is lower than values reported for extraretinal photoreceptors such as the pineal photoreceptors of Salmo gairdnerii irideus, the rainbow trout, and the caudal photoreceptor in the sixth abdominal ganglion of Procambarus clarkii, a crayfish. 6. V.p.n. has a linear amplitude response range for low intensities of light and a non-linear range that saturates at high intensities. In the accompanying paper the response wave form and its temperature dependence are interpreted according to a diffusion-based model.", "PMID": 430406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_421", "title": "The role of diffusion in the photoresponse of an extraretinal photoreceptor of Aplysia.", "content": "1. Membrane currents produced by flashes and steps of light (photo-current) were recorded from the ventral photoresponsive neurone of Aplysia californica. The effects of background illumination and changes in temperature were also examined. 2. The falling phase of the response wave form may be separated into two components with time constants of 10--12 sec and 50 sec. 3. Background illumination reduced the response amplitude to light impulses without appreciably altering the response wave form. 4. Lowering the temperature greatly reduced the amplitude of the photo-current with a Q10 of 2.91 (25--15 degrees C) and greatly prolonged the duration of the response. 5. Because of the relatively large distance between the plasma membrane and the pigmented cytoplasmic lipochondria where light is absorbed, a diffusion-based model with Ca as the internal-transmitter (Andresen & Brown, 1979) was developed. 6. In this model diffusion of Ca2+ released from the lipochondria upon photon absorption is slowed by the reversible uptake of Ca2+ at cytoplasmic binding sites. Ca2+ interacts with sites at the plasma membrane to increase GK and Ca2+ levels are subsequently restored by irreversible uptake processes. Ca2+ release and its adsorption and desorption from the more numerous plasma membrane binding sites were assumed to be instantaneous with respect to the duration of the light-evoked response. 7. The linearized model equations adequately predict the experimental response wave forms, the effects of temperature, and saturation of the steady-state amplitude--stimulus relationship. Aside from amplitude scaling, no curve-fitting was used. 8. The model also gives realistic values for the cytoplasmic diffusion coefficient of Ca and the net rate of Ca efflux required to restore dark Ca activity.", "contents": "The role of diffusion in the photoresponse of an extraretinal photoreceptor of Aplysia. 1. Membrane currents produced by flashes and steps of light (photo-current) were recorded from the ventral photoresponsive neurone of Aplysia californica. The effects of background illumination and changes in temperature were also examined. 2. The falling phase of the response wave form may be separated into two components with time constants of 10--12 sec and 50 sec. 3. Background illumination reduced the response amplitude to light impulses without appreciably altering the response wave form. 4. Lowering the temperature greatly reduced the amplitude of the photo-current with a Q10 of 2.91 (25--15 degrees C) and greatly prolonged the duration of the response. 5. Because of the relatively large distance between the plasma membrane and the pigmented cytoplasmic lipochondria where light is absorbed, a diffusion-based model with Ca as the internal-transmitter (Andresen & Brown, 1979) was developed. 6. In this model diffusion of Ca2+ released from the lipochondria upon photon absorption is slowed by the reversible uptake of Ca2+ at cytoplasmic binding sites. Ca2+ interacts with sites at the plasma membrane to increase GK and Ca2+ levels are subsequently restored by irreversible uptake processes. Ca2+ release and its adsorption and desorption from the more numerous plasma membrane binding sites were assumed to be instantaneous with respect to the duration of the light-evoked response. 7. The linearized model equations adequately predict the experimental response wave forms, the effects of temperature, and saturation of the steady-state amplitude--stimulus relationship. Aside from amplitude scaling, no curve-fitting was used. 8. The model also gives realistic values for the cytoplasmic diffusion coefficient of Ca and the net rate of Ca efflux required to restore dark Ca activity.", "PMID": 430409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_422", "title": "Phosphate efflux and oxygen consumption in small non-myelinated nerve fibres at rest and during activity.", "content": "1. The oxygen consumption and the movements of labelled phosphate were measured in garfish olfactory nerve at rest and during activity.2. In solutions with 2.5 mM-K and 0.2 mM-phosphate the resting oxygen consumption was 0.206 m-mole/kg.min; activity at 2 sec(-1) produced an extra oxygen consumption of 2.46 mumole/kg.impulse. The extra oxygen consumption declined exponentially with a time constant of 2.62 min at 22-26 degrees C.3. The phosphate efflux, measured simultaneously, had a resting efflux rate constant of 1.24 x 10(-3) min(-1); activity at 2 sec(-1) produced an extra fractional loss of 9.38 x 10(-6) impulse(-1). The increase in phosphate efflux followed almost the same time course as the increase in oxygen consumption.4. Increasing the frequency of stimulation from 2 sec(-1) to 3 or 5 sec(-1) decreased both the extra oxygen consumption and the extra fractional loss of phosphate. When the frequency was decreased to 0.5 or 1 sec(-1) the extra oxygen consumption per impulse increased, while the extra phosphate liberation was lowered.5. Changing the phosphate concentration did not much affect the extra oxygen consumption; on the other hand, lowering or increasing the phosphate from the standard 0.2 mM decreased both the resting and the stimulated phosphate efflux.6. Lowering the K from the standard 2.5 mM did not affect the extra oxygen consumption, but increased both the resting and the extra loss of phosphate. At higher K concentrations the extra oxygen consumption and the extra fractional loss of phosphate decreased without much change in the resting phosphate efflux.7. Application of 1-20 muM-strophanthidin produced a transient decrease in the resting phosphate efflux without much change in resting oxygen consumption. With 10 or 20 muM-strophanthidin the extra fractional loss of phosphate and the extra oxygen consumption were both lowered in approximately the same proportions.8. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the increase in intracellular inorganic phosphate that results from increased break-down of ATP after activity, is the main cause for the increased phosphate efflux. A fraction of the increase in intracellular phosphate only appears to be liberated to the outside, the value of the fraction depending on the resting phosphate efflux before activity.9. The initial increase in intracellular inorganic phosphate after an impulse, estimated from the oxygen consumption or the phosphate fluxes, appears to be about 12-19 mumole/kg nerve, remarkably close to the value known from chemical analysis.", "contents": "Phosphate efflux and oxygen consumption in small non-myelinated nerve fibres at rest and during activity. 1. The oxygen consumption and the movements of labelled phosphate were measured in garfish olfactory nerve at rest and during activity.2. In solutions with 2.5 mM-K and 0.2 mM-phosphate the resting oxygen consumption was 0.206 m-mole/kg.min; activity at 2 sec(-1) produced an extra oxygen consumption of 2.46 mumole/kg.impulse. The extra oxygen consumption declined exponentially with a time constant of 2.62 min at 22-26 degrees C.3. The phosphate efflux, measured simultaneously, had a resting efflux rate constant of 1.24 x 10(-3) min(-1); activity at 2 sec(-1) produced an extra fractional loss of 9.38 x 10(-6) impulse(-1). The increase in phosphate efflux followed almost the same time course as the increase in oxygen consumption.4. Increasing the frequency of stimulation from 2 sec(-1) to 3 or 5 sec(-1) decreased both the extra oxygen consumption and the extra fractional loss of phosphate. When the frequency was decreased to 0.5 or 1 sec(-1) the extra oxygen consumption per impulse increased, while the extra phosphate liberation was lowered.5. Changing the phosphate concentration did not much affect the extra oxygen consumption; on the other hand, lowering or increasing the phosphate from the standard 0.2 mM decreased both the resting and the stimulated phosphate efflux.6. Lowering the K from the standard 2.5 mM did not affect the extra oxygen consumption, but increased both the resting and the extra loss of phosphate. At higher K concentrations the extra oxygen consumption and the extra fractional loss of phosphate decreased without much change in the resting phosphate efflux.7. Application of 1-20 muM-strophanthidin produced a transient decrease in the resting phosphate efflux without much change in resting oxygen consumption. With 10 or 20 muM-strophanthidin the extra fractional loss of phosphate and the extra oxygen consumption were both lowered in approximately the same proportions.8. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the increase in intracellular inorganic phosphate that results from increased break-down of ATP after activity, is the main cause for the increased phosphate efflux. A fraction of the increase in intracellular phosphate only appears to be liberated to the outside, the value of the fraction depending on the resting phosphate efflux before activity.9. The initial increase in intracellular inorganic phosphate after an impulse, estimated from the oxygen consumption or the phosphate fluxes, appears to be about 12-19 mumole/kg nerve, remarkably close to the value known from chemical analysis.", "PMID": 430413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_423", "title": "Motor unit organization of human medial gastrocnemius.", "content": "1. The properties of fifty-seven motor units in human medial gastrocnemius have been studied using controlled intramuscular microstimulation, glycogen depletion and muscle biopsy. 2. Motor units could be divided into three classes on the basis of their mechanical properties. Type S units were slow, small and fatigue resistant. Type FR units were fast, intermediate in size, and fatigue resistant. Type FF units were fast, large and fatigable. 3. Glycogen depletion of a number of type S and FF units revealed them to be composed of type 1 and type 2b muscle fibres respectively. 4. The results suggest that during slowly increasing voluntary contractions where units are recruited in order of size, type 1 and 2a muscle fibres would be employed at low force levels followed by type 2b muscle fibres in stronger contractions.", "contents": "Motor unit organization of human medial gastrocnemius. 1. The properties of fifty-seven motor units in human medial gastrocnemius have been studied using controlled intramuscular microstimulation, glycogen depletion and muscle biopsy. 2. Motor units could be divided into three classes on the basis of their mechanical properties. Type S units were slow, small and fatigue resistant. Type FR units were fast, intermediate in size, and fatigue resistant. Type FF units were fast, large and fatigable. 3. Glycogen depletion of a number of type S and FF units revealed them to be composed of type 1 and type 2b muscle fibres respectively. 4. The results suggest that during slowly increasing voluntary contractions where units are recruited in order of size, type 1 and 2a muscle fibres would be employed at low force levels followed by type 2b muscle fibres in stronger contractions.", "PMID": 430414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_424", "title": "Some properties of the excitatory junction potentials recorded from saphenous arteries of rabbits.", "content": "1. Excitatory junction potentials (e.j.p.s) were recorded from smooth muscle cells of the saphenous arteries of young rabbits. 2. The amplitudes of e.j.p.s recorded from different preparations, in response to a single maximal stimulus, were small and variable (5--14 mV). They decayed exponentially with a time constant of about 200 msec. 3. At frequencies greater than 1 Hz the shape of those e.j.p.s which exceeded 12--15 mV in amplitude was changed. The early part of the e.j.p.s became faster in time course. 4. Trains of up to five stimuli, at frequencies greater than 4 Hz, caused summation of e.j.p.s; 'active responses' were superimposed on this depolarization. Peak amplitude of the response to repetitive stimulation was 50 mV. 5. In normal solution, contraction appeared to be associated with a change in the configuration of e.j.p.s. 6. No action potentials resembling those recorded from most visceral smooth muscles were observed in normal solutions although these could be evoked in the presence of TEA (2.5--10 mM). 7. The method of Abe & Tomita (1968) was used to determine the values of the length constant (lambda) and time constant (tau) of the smooth muscle of intact arteries. The value of lambda (0.6 mm) was about half that found for circular strips cut from larger arteries. 8. The time constant of decay of single e.j.p.s of less than 12 mV in amplitude was indistinguishable from the membrane time constant. 9. Noradrenaline caused contraction of the artery in the absence of a change in membrane potential. 10. It is tentatively suggested that there may be two different populations of receptors in this smooth muscle membrane.", "contents": "Some properties of the excitatory junction potentials recorded from saphenous arteries of rabbits. 1. Excitatory junction potentials (e.j.p.s) were recorded from smooth muscle cells of the saphenous arteries of young rabbits. 2. The amplitudes of e.j.p.s recorded from different preparations, in response to a single maximal stimulus, were small and variable (5--14 mV). They decayed exponentially with a time constant of about 200 msec. 3. At frequencies greater than 1 Hz the shape of those e.j.p.s which exceeded 12--15 mV in amplitude was changed. The early part of the e.j.p.s became faster in time course. 4. Trains of up to five stimuli, at frequencies greater than 4 Hz, caused summation of e.j.p.s; 'active responses' were superimposed on this depolarization. Peak amplitude of the response to repetitive stimulation was 50 mV. 5. In normal solution, contraction appeared to be associated with a change in the configuration of e.j.p.s. 6. No action potentials resembling those recorded from most visceral smooth muscles were observed in normal solutions although these could be evoked in the presence of TEA (2.5--10 mM). 7. The method of Abe & Tomita (1968) was used to determine the values of the length constant (lambda) and time constant (tau) of the smooth muscle of intact arteries. The value of lambda (0.6 mm) was about half that found for circular strips cut from larger arteries. 8. The time constant of decay of single e.j.p.s of less than 12 mV in amplitude was indistinguishable from the membrane time constant. 9. Noradrenaline caused contraction of the artery in the absence of a change in membrane potential. 10. It is tentatively suggested that there may be two different populations of receptors in this smooth muscle membrane.", "PMID": 430416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_425", "title": "Movements of monosaccharides between blood and tissues of vascularly perfused small intestine.", "content": "1. A method involving the analysis of pulse transients of the vascular concentrations of test sugar and extracellular marker has been used to study the movements of non-metabolized sugars between the cells and vascular fluid of the vascularly perfused small intestine of R. ridibunda. Reasons are given for supposing that the method does properly measure the net entry of sugars into a cellular compartment that includes at least the epithelium. 2. It is found that while the glucose analogues, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3MG) and 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2)DG) are able to enter a cellular compartment when they are added to the vascular bed, alpha-methyl-D-glucoside (alpha MG) is able to enter the compartment only at a very slow rate from the vascular bed. In contrast, 3MG and alaph MG are well absorbed from the lumen whereas the inward permeability of 2DG across the lumen face of the epithelium is very low and, unlike 3MG and alpha MG, is not influenced by the presence in the lumen of other transported sugars. 3. The presence of phlorizin in the intestinal lumen increases the flux of alpha MG and of 3MG in the direction vascular bed--bulk phase of lumen. Reasons are given for supposing that the movement of sugars from the vascular bed into the lumen may involve a cellular route but occurs, at least in part, through a paracellular, extracellular route. 4. The exit of monosaccharides that have been loaded previously into the epithelium either from the lumen or from the vascular bed has been investigated. 3MG washes out rapidly into the vascular bed and the exit is stimulated by the addition of D-glucose to the intestinal lumen and by the addition of 2DG, but not alpha MG, to the arterial infusate. In contrast, alpha MG, loaded into the epithelium from the lumen, washes out of the cells only slowly into the vascular bed, so that even with high rates of vascular perfusion alpha MG accumulates within the tissue. The sustained accumulation of alpha MG implies that not only is the permeability for exit into the blood restricted for this sugar, but also the permeability is low across the brush border in an outward direction, cell to lumen ('lobster pot effect'). The wash-out of 3MG into the vascular effluent is sufficently rapid that only in the absence of vascular perfusion is 3MG accumulated within the tissue. 5. The contrasting properties of the monosaccharide transport systems accessible from the intestinal lumen and the vascular bed respectively are discussed in relation to the problems of epithelial transport of monosaccharide.", "contents": "Movements of monosaccharides between blood and tissues of vascularly perfused small intestine. 1. A method involving the analysis of pulse transients of the vascular concentrations of test sugar and extracellular marker has been used to study the movements of non-metabolized sugars between the cells and vascular fluid of the vascularly perfused small intestine of R. ridibunda. Reasons are given for supposing that the method does properly measure the net entry of sugars into a cellular compartment that includes at least the epithelium. 2. It is found that while the glucose analogues, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3MG) and 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2)DG) are able to enter a cellular compartment when they are added to the vascular bed, alpha-methyl-D-glucoside (alpha MG) is able to enter the compartment only at a very slow rate from the vascular bed. In contrast, 3MG and alaph MG are well absorbed from the lumen whereas the inward permeability of 2DG across the lumen face of the epithelium is very low and, unlike 3MG and alpha MG, is not influenced by the presence in the lumen of other transported sugars. 3. The presence of phlorizin in the intestinal lumen increases the flux of alpha MG and of 3MG in the direction vascular bed--bulk phase of lumen. Reasons are given for supposing that the movement of sugars from the vascular bed into the lumen may involve a cellular route but occurs, at least in part, through a paracellular, extracellular route. 4. The exit of monosaccharides that have been loaded previously into the epithelium either from the lumen or from the vascular bed has been investigated. 3MG washes out rapidly into the vascular bed and the exit is stimulated by the addition of D-glucose to the intestinal lumen and by the addition of 2DG, but not alpha MG, to the arterial infusate. In contrast, alpha MG, loaded into the epithelium from the lumen, washes out of the cells only slowly into the vascular bed, so that even with high rates of vascular perfusion alpha MG accumulates within the tissue. The sustained accumulation of alpha MG implies that not only is the permeability for exit into the blood restricted for this sugar, but also the permeability is low across the brush border in an outward direction, cell to lumen ('lobster pot effect'). The wash-out of 3MG into the vascular effluent is sufficently rapid that only in the absence of vascular perfusion is 3MG accumulated within the tissue. 5. The contrasting properties of the monosaccharide transport systems accessible from the intestinal lumen and the vascular bed respectively are discussed in relation to the problems of epithelial transport of monosaccharide.", "PMID": 430421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_426", "title": "The effects of histamine, acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on lung mechanics and irritant receptors in the dog.", "content": "1. The ability of histamine, acetylcholine, acetylcholine (ACh) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) given I.V. and by aerosol to induce reflex bronchoconstriction and to activate lung irritant receptors has been studied in dogs anaesthetized with chloralose. 2. Histamine (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.0625%, 0.125% and 0.25% solutions and 5, 10 and 20 microgram kg-1 I.V.), 5-HT (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.5% or 1.0% solutions and 10, 20 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) produced significant relex changes in RL (total lung resistance). The changes in RL produced by ACh (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.25%, 0.5% and 1.0% solutions, of 5, 10, 20 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) were unaffected by vagal cooling. 3. The falls in Cdyn (dynamic compliance) produced by ACh given by aerosol or I.V. were unaffected by vagal cooling. The falls in Cdyn produced by histamine (10 microgram kg-1 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) and 5-HT (four breaths of an aerosol generated from a 0.5% solution and 20 microgram kg-1 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) were significantly reduced by vagal cooling. 4. Histamine, 5-HT and ACh given by aerosol and I.V. increased lung irritant receptor discharge. Irrespective of the route of administration, for a given change in RL histamine produced a greater increase in irritant receptor discharge than did ACh or 5-HT, which produced similar increases. 5. For a given change in RL, histamine, ACh and 5-HT were more effective in activating lung irritant receptors when given I.V. than by aerosol. 6. The mechanisms of irritant receptor activation by histamine, ACh and 5-HT and the relationship between irritant receptor discharge and reflex bronchoconstriction are discussed.", "contents": "The effects of histamine, acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on lung mechanics and irritant receptors in the dog. 1. The ability of histamine, acetylcholine, acetylcholine (ACh) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) given I.V. and by aerosol to induce reflex bronchoconstriction and to activate lung irritant receptors has been studied in dogs anaesthetized with chloralose. 2. Histamine (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.0625%, 0.125% and 0.25% solutions and 5, 10 and 20 microgram kg-1 I.V.), 5-HT (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.5% or 1.0% solutions and 10, 20 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) produced significant relex changes in RL (total lung resistance). The changes in RL produced by ACh (four breaths of an aerosol from 0.25%, 0.5% and 1.0% solutions, of 5, 10, 20 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) were unaffected by vagal cooling. 3. The falls in Cdyn (dynamic compliance) produced by ACh given by aerosol or I.V. were unaffected by vagal cooling. The falls in Cdyn produced by histamine (10 microgram kg-1 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) and 5-HT (four breaths of an aerosol generated from a 0.5% solution and 20 microgram kg-1 and 40 microgram kg-1 I.V.) were significantly reduced by vagal cooling. 4. Histamine, 5-HT and ACh given by aerosol and I.V. increased lung irritant receptor discharge. Irrespective of the route of administration, for a given change in RL histamine produced a greater increase in irritant receptor discharge than did ACh or 5-HT, which produced similar increases. 5. For a given change in RL, histamine, ACh and 5-HT were more effective in activating lung irritant receptors when given I.V. than by aerosol. 6. The mechanisms of irritant receptor activation by histamine, ACh and 5-HT and the relationship between irritant receptor discharge and reflex bronchoconstriction are discussed.", "PMID": 430424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_427", "title": "Functional relationships between the hippocampus and the cerebellum: an electrophysiological study of the cat.", "content": "1. Functional interrelationships between the hippocampus and the cerebellum have been investigated in the anaesthetized cat. Plots of the stimulating and recording sites as well as the latency range of the responses indicated the extent of ascending and descending lines of operation between these two structures. 2. Stimulation of the fastigial nucleus evoked the discharge of single hippocampal units on both sides of the brain. Early responses had a mean latency of 12 msec and late responses had a mean latency of 21 msec. Increasing the intensity of the stimulus had little effect on the patterns of discharge. 3. There was no topographical organization within the hippocampus. On the other hand, the activity evoked by a cutaneous stimulus was shown to be greatly depressed by a preceding cerebellar stimulus, particularly at intervals 30--40 msec between the two stimuli. 4. Cerebellar responses evoked by stimulating the hippocampus were found mainly in lobule VI of the posterior lobe. Early and late responses were frequently recorded in the same trace, ipsilateral stimulation yielding the shortest latencies. Increasing the intensity of the stimulus increased the likelihood of there being a response and increased the number of spikes in each discharge. Hippocampal stimulation also had a profound influence on resting cerebellar discharges. 5. Symmetrical points in the two hippocampi were chosen for conditioning and testing sequences. The conditioning stimulus had a long-lasting inhibitory effect on the test response followed by a slow recovery. 6. The location and extent of hippocampal influences on the cerebellum were determined by plotting the presence or absence of a response at each stimulated site. The results indicated the existence of bilateral descending projections containing fast and slow components in conformity with the known conduction properties of mossy fibre and climbing fibre inputs. 7. The physiological significance of interrelationship between the hippocampus and the cerebellum is discussed. It seems that there are many similarities as well as fundamental differences in the cerebellar control of movement under normal circumstances and in conditions of stress.", "contents": "Functional relationships between the hippocampus and the cerebellum: an electrophysiological study of the cat. 1. Functional interrelationships between the hippocampus and the cerebellum have been investigated in the anaesthetized cat. Plots of the stimulating and recording sites as well as the latency range of the responses indicated the extent of ascending and descending lines of operation between these two structures. 2. Stimulation of the fastigial nucleus evoked the discharge of single hippocampal units on both sides of the brain. Early responses had a mean latency of 12 msec and late responses had a mean latency of 21 msec. Increasing the intensity of the stimulus had little effect on the patterns of discharge. 3. There was no topographical organization within the hippocampus. On the other hand, the activity evoked by a cutaneous stimulus was shown to be greatly depressed by a preceding cerebellar stimulus, particularly at intervals 30--40 msec between the two stimuli. 4. Cerebellar responses evoked by stimulating the hippocampus were found mainly in lobule VI of the posterior lobe. Early and late responses were frequently recorded in the same trace, ipsilateral stimulation yielding the shortest latencies. Increasing the intensity of the stimulus increased the likelihood of there being a response and increased the number of spikes in each discharge. Hippocampal stimulation also had a profound influence on resting cerebellar discharges. 5. Symmetrical points in the two hippocampi were chosen for conditioning and testing sequences. The conditioning stimulus had a long-lasting inhibitory effect on the test response followed by a slow recovery. 6. The location and extent of hippocampal influences on the cerebellum were determined by plotting the presence or absence of a response at each stimulated site. The results indicated the existence of bilateral descending projections containing fast and slow components in conformity with the known conduction properties of mossy fibre and climbing fibre inputs. 7. The physiological significance of interrelationship between the hippocampus and the cerebellum is discussed. It seems that there are many similarities as well as fundamental differences in the cerebellar control of movement under normal circumstances and in conditions of stress.", "PMID": 430426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_428", "title": "Cation transport across the guinea-pig placenta perfused in situ.", "content": "1. The guinea-pig placenta perfused in situ via the umbilical circulation has been used to measure unidirectional fluxes of Na from mother to fetus, and in the reverse direction, with 24Na and 22Na. There was no significant difference between the two fluxes, each being 22 mumole.min-1. 2. Ouabain 10(-5) M in the perfusion fluid had no detectable effect on radioisotopic movements of Na in either direction. 3. Unidirectional fluxes of 42K in both directions were approximately equal at 1.7 mumole.min-1 mother fetus and 1.8 mumole.min-1 in the reverse direction, despite a K concentration of 3.4 mM on the maternal side and 5.0 mM on the fetal side of the placenta. 4. Extraction of 42K and 86Rb from the perfusion fluid was inhibited by 43% by 10(-5) M-ouabain in the fluid. This effect was largely due to a reduction of isotope uptake by the placental tissue. 5. The relative permeabilities of the placenta, mother to fetus, were Rb approximately K (3.2) greater than Na (1.0) greater than Li (0.55). 6. Under the experimental conditions, the electrical potential difference between perfusion fluid and maternal blood was 6 mV (fetus negative). It was shifted towards the positive by a low Na fluid. 7. The results suggest the presence of a dominant Na-K pump (active component towards mother) sited at the maternal-facing membrane of the syncytiotrophoblast together with a subsidiary pump oriented in the opposite direction and probably sited together with a subsidiary pump oriented in the opposite direction and probably sited at the fetal-facing membrane of the syncytiotrophoblast. 8. A high proportion of Na movement particularly towards the fetus is probably passive, occurring through water-filled spaces, whilst K movement is more dependent on active transport.", "contents": "Cation transport across the guinea-pig placenta perfused in situ. 1. The guinea-pig placenta perfused in situ via the umbilical circulation has been used to measure unidirectional fluxes of Na from mother to fetus, and in the reverse direction, with 24Na and 22Na. There was no significant difference between the two fluxes, each being 22 mumole.min-1. 2. Ouabain 10(-5) M in the perfusion fluid had no detectable effect on radioisotopic movements of Na in either direction. 3. Unidirectional fluxes of 42K in both directions were approximately equal at 1.7 mumole.min-1 mother fetus and 1.8 mumole.min-1 in the reverse direction, despite a K concentration of 3.4 mM on the maternal side and 5.0 mM on the fetal side of the placenta. 4. Extraction of 42K and 86Rb from the perfusion fluid was inhibited by 43% by 10(-5) M-ouabain in the fluid. This effect was largely due to a reduction of isotope uptake by the placental tissue. 5. The relative permeabilities of the placenta, mother to fetus, were Rb approximately K (3.2) greater than Na (1.0) greater than Li (0.55). 6. Under the experimental conditions, the electrical potential difference between perfusion fluid and maternal blood was 6 mV (fetus negative). It was shifted towards the positive by a low Na fluid. 7. The results suggest the presence of a dominant Na-K pump (active component towards mother) sited at the maternal-facing membrane of the syncytiotrophoblast together with a subsidiary pump oriented in the opposite direction and probably sited together with a subsidiary pump oriented in the opposite direction and probably sited at the fetal-facing membrane of the syncytiotrophoblast. 8. A high proportion of Na movement particularly towards the fetus is probably passive, occurring through water-filled spaces, whilst K movement is more dependent on active transport.", "PMID": 430428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_429", "title": "Left ventricular inotropic responses to stimulation of carotid body chemoreceptors in anaesthetized dogs.", "content": "1. Dogs were anaesthetized with chloralose and artificially ventilated. The regions of both carotid bifurcations were vascularly isolated and perfused at constant pressure with arterial blood or with venous or hypoxic blood. 2. Inotropic responses were assessed by measuring the maximum rate of change of left ventricular pressure (dP/dtmax) with aortic pressure and heart rate held constant. 3. Stimulation of the chemoreceptors with venous blood from the inferior vena cava resulted in a decrease in dP/dtmax from 510 +/- 27 kPa.s-1 to 418 +/- 21 kPa.s-1 (mean +/- S.E.): a change of 17.9 +/- 1.0% 4. In experiments in which the oxygen tension of the blood perfusing the carotid chemoreceptors was decreased in steps between 10 and 3 kPa, by use of an oxygenator, graded responses of dP/dtmax were obtained at each step. 5. The inotropic responses to chemoreceptor stimulation were abolished by raising carotid pressure. 6. The inotropic responses were abolished either by crushing both carotid bodies or both ansae subclaviae, indicating that the reflex originates from the carotid bodies and that the efferent pathway is in the cardiac sympathetic nerves.", "contents": "Left ventricular inotropic responses to stimulation of carotid body chemoreceptors in anaesthetized dogs. 1. Dogs were anaesthetized with chloralose and artificially ventilated. The regions of both carotid bifurcations were vascularly isolated and perfused at constant pressure with arterial blood or with venous or hypoxic blood. 2. Inotropic responses were assessed by measuring the maximum rate of change of left ventricular pressure (dP/dtmax) with aortic pressure and heart rate held constant. 3. Stimulation of the chemoreceptors with venous blood from the inferior vena cava resulted in a decrease in dP/dtmax from 510 +/- 27 kPa.s-1 to 418 +/- 21 kPa.s-1 (mean +/- S.E.): a change of 17.9 +/- 1.0% 4. In experiments in which the oxygen tension of the blood perfusing the carotid chemoreceptors was decreased in steps between 10 and 3 kPa, by use of an oxygenator, graded responses of dP/dtmax were obtained at each step. 5. The inotropic responses to chemoreceptor stimulation were abolished by raising carotid pressure. 6. The inotropic responses were abolished either by crushing both carotid bodies or both ansae subclaviae, indicating that the reflex originates from the carotid bodies and that the efferent pathway is in the cardiac sympathetic nerves.", "PMID": 430429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_430", "title": "Differential alteration by hypercapnia and hypoxia of the apneustic respiratory pattern in decerebrate cats.", "content": "1. A combination of bilateral lesions within the nucleus parabrachialis medialis complex (n.p.b.m.) and bilateral vagotomy typically resulted in an apneustic respiratory pattern in decerebrate and paralysed cats. Integrated efferent phrenic nerve activity was recorded as an index of the respiratory rhythm.2. Changes in components of this apneustic breathing cycle were evaluated in response to steady-state hypercapnia and hypoxia. The components evaluated were (a) the period of phrenic discharge (inspiratory time, T(I)), (b) the period of no detectable phrenic activity (expiratory time, T(E)), (c) the total duration of the apneustic respiratory cycle (T(TOT), the sum of T(I) and T(E)), and (d) the average height of the integrated phrenic nerve activity (apneustic depth).3. Elevations of P(A, CO2) from values below 45 torr to 50-60 torr, under both hyperoxic and normoxic conditions, resulted in significant elevations of T(I), T(E), T(TOT) and depth. Further P(A, CO2) elevations to approximately 70 torr caused no change, or frequently, a decrease in T(I), T(E) and T(TOT); the apneustic depth increased in most animals.4. Diminutions in P(A, O2) from normoxic to hypoxic levels at isocapnia typically caused an increase in apneustic depth and, concomitantly, significant decreases in T(I), T(E) and T(TOT).5. Pharmacological stimulation of the carotid chemoreceptors by intracarotid administration of 1.0-20 mug NaCN produced a premature onset of phrenic nerve activity if delivered during the expiratory period. Such NaCN administrations, delivered during the inspiratory phase, resulted in an augmentation of the integrated phrenic discharge and a premature termination of phrenic activity. Carotid sinus nerve section eliminated the response to NaCN administration.6. In experimental animals having bilateral carotid sinus nerve section, normoxic hypercapnia caused similar changes in the apneustic breathing pattern to those recorded in cats having intact carotid chemoreceptors. However, isocapnic hypoxia induced time-dependent changes in the pattern of phrenic discharge including diminutions in depth, an onset of gasping-type activity, or expiratory apnea.7. In a few animals, bilateral n.p.b.m. lesions and bilateral vagotomy resulted in expiratory apnea which was continuous as long as ventilation with air was maintained. This expiratory apnea was replaced by an apneustic breathing pattern following diminutions of P(A, O2) below 90 torr. This establishment of an apneustic breathing pattern by hypoxia was observed both in animals having intact, as well as sectioned, carotid sinus nerves. This expiratory apnea could also be terminated by a single apneustic inspiration following general somatic stimulation or, in cats having intact carotid chemoreceptors, following intracarotid NaCN administration.8. It is concluded that hypercapnia and hypoxia produce differential alterations of the apneustic breathing pattern in decerebrate cats. Further, the hypoxia-induced changes are considered to represent the net result of carotid chemoreceptor stimulation and brain stem depression. The results of this study are considered in the context of proposed mechanisms for phase-switching of the respiratory cycle.", "contents": "Differential alteration by hypercapnia and hypoxia of the apneustic respiratory pattern in decerebrate cats. 1. A combination of bilateral lesions within the nucleus parabrachialis medialis complex (n.p.b.m.) and bilateral vagotomy typically resulted in an apneustic respiratory pattern in decerebrate and paralysed cats. Integrated efferent phrenic nerve activity was recorded as an index of the respiratory rhythm.2. Changes in components of this apneustic breathing cycle were evaluated in response to steady-state hypercapnia and hypoxia. The components evaluated were (a) the period of phrenic discharge (inspiratory time, T(I)), (b) the period of no detectable phrenic activity (expiratory time, T(E)), (c) the total duration of the apneustic respiratory cycle (T(TOT), the sum of T(I) and T(E)), and (d) the average height of the integrated phrenic nerve activity (apneustic depth).3. Elevations of P(A, CO2) from values below 45 torr to 50-60 torr, under both hyperoxic and normoxic conditions, resulted in significant elevations of T(I), T(E), T(TOT) and depth. Further P(A, CO2) elevations to approximately 70 torr caused no change, or frequently, a decrease in T(I), T(E) and T(TOT); the apneustic depth increased in most animals.4. Diminutions in P(A, O2) from normoxic to hypoxic levels at isocapnia typically caused an increase in apneustic depth and, concomitantly, significant decreases in T(I), T(E) and T(TOT).5. Pharmacological stimulation of the carotid chemoreceptors by intracarotid administration of 1.0-20 mug NaCN produced a premature onset of phrenic nerve activity if delivered during the expiratory period. Such NaCN administrations, delivered during the inspiratory phase, resulted in an augmentation of the integrated phrenic discharge and a premature termination of phrenic activity. Carotid sinus nerve section eliminated the response to NaCN administration.6. In experimental animals having bilateral carotid sinus nerve section, normoxic hypercapnia caused similar changes in the apneustic breathing pattern to those recorded in cats having intact carotid chemoreceptors. However, isocapnic hypoxia induced time-dependent changes in the pattern of phrenic discharge including diminutions in depth, an onset of gasping-type activity, or expiratory apnea.7. In a few animals, bilateral n.p.b.m. lesions and bilateral vagotomy resulted in expiratory apnea which was continuous as long as ventilation with air was maintained. This expiratory apnea was replaced by an apneustic breathing pattern following diminutions of P(A, O2) below 90 torr. This establishment of an apneustic breathing pattern by hypoxia was observed both in animals having intact, as well as sectioned, carotid sinus nerves. This expiratory apnea could also be terminated by a single apneustic inspiration following general somatic stimulation or, in cats having intact carotid chemoreceptors, following intracarotid NaCN administration.8. It is concluded that hypercapnia and hypoxia produce differential alterations of the apneustic breathing pattern in decerebrate cats. Further, the hypoxia-induced changes are considered to represent the net result of carotid chemoreceptor stimulation and brain stem depression. The results of this study are considered in the context of proposed mechanisms for phase-switching of the respiratory cycle.", "PMID": 430430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_431", "title": "The heat sensitization of polymodal nociceptors in the rabbit and its independence of the local blood flow.", "content": "1. The firing frequency of polymodal nociceptor units with C-fibre axons was found to increase exponentially with skin temperature as the latter was raised linearly at 1 degree C/sec. Q10 values ranged from 3.6 to 120. 2. Following skin heating to 54--64 degrees C, average firing thresholds fell substantially. This sensitization was accompanied by a 46% increase in interval by interval variability of firing during heat stimulation. 3. Stopping the blood flow to the saphenous area by ligaturing the femoral or saphenous arteries had no significant effect on heat thresholds, on firing patterns during heat stimulation or on variability of firing in sensitized units. There were no changes in continuous, background firing during periods of arterial ligation. 4. It is concluded that if the maintenance of nociceptor heat sensitization depends on the continuous local production of chemical substances, these substances must either be rapidly broken down locally or able to move only slowly into blood vessels.", "contents": "The heat sensitization of polymodal nociceptors in the rabbit and its independence of the local blood flow. 1. The firing frequency of polymodal nociceptor units with C-fibre axons was found to increase exponentially with skin temperature as the latter was raised linearly at 1 degree C/sec. Q10 values ranged from 3.6 to 120. 2. Following skin heating to 54--64 degrees C, average firing thresholds fell substantially. This sensitization was accompanied by a 46% increase in interval by interval variability of firing during heat stimulation. 3. Stopping the blood flow to the saphenous area by ligaturing the femoral or saphenous arteries had no significant effect on heat thresholds, on firing patterns during heat stimulation or on variability of firing in sensitized units. There were no changes in continuous, background firing during periods of arterial ligation. 4. It is concluded that if the maintenance of nociceptor heat sensitization depends on the continuous local production of chemical substances, these substances must either be rapidly broken down locally or able to move only slowly into blood vessels.", "PMID": 430431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_432", "title": "The nature of the receptor mediating stimulant effects of histamine on rapidly adapting vagal afferents in the lungs.", "content": "1. The effects of histamine H1- and H2-agonists on these airway sensory receptors were also examined. 2. Neither I.V. infusion of metiamide (5 mg/kg, min for 35 min) in seven experiments, nor I.V. bolus injection of burimamide (15 mg/kg) in six other experiments, both substances being H2-antagonists, altered the response of rapidly adapting receptors to aerosols of histamine (from 0.1 or 1.0% solutions). 3. Chlorpheniramine (H1-antagonist), 2--5 mg/kg, I.V., completely abolished responses of rapidly adapting receptors to histamine in seven experiments in which metiamide had been given previously and in seven other preparations in which it had not, but had no effect on responses to prostaglandin F2 alpha. Chlorpheniramine itself caused a brief stimulation of rapidly adapting receptors. 4. The H2-agonist S-[3-(N,N-dimethylamino) propyl] isothiourea (Dimaprit), given as aerosol (1% solution for 2 min) or I.V. (2 mg/kg), was without effect on activity of four airway rapidly adapting receptors. These receptors were stimulated, however, by the H1-agonist 2,(2 pyridylethylamine) dihydrochloride (PEA), administered both as aerosol (from a 10% solution) and I.V. (0.4--2 mg/kg). These stimulant effects were abolished by chlorpheniramine. 5. The results indicate that stimulation of airway rapidly adapting receptors by histamine is mediated by histamine H1-receptors.", "contents": "The nature of the receptor mediating stimulant effects of histamine on rapidly adapting vagal afferents in the lungs. 1. The effects of histamine H1- and H2-agonists on these airway sensory receptors were also examined. 2. Neither I.V. infusion of metiamide (5 mg/kg, min for 35 min) in seven experiments, nor I.V. bolus injection of burimamide (15 mg/kg) in six other experiments, both substances being H2-antagonists, altered the response of rapidly adapting receptors to aerosols of histamine (from 0.1 or 1.0% solutions). 3. Chlorpheniramine (H1-antagonist), 2--5 mg/kg, I.V., completely abolished responses of rapidly adapting receptors to histamine in seven experiments in which metiamide had been given previously and in seven other preparations in which it had not, but had no effect on responses to prostaglandin F2 alpha. Chlorpheniramine itself caused a brief stimulation of rapidly adapting receptors. 4. The H2-agonist S-[3-(N,N-dimethylamino) propyl] isothiourea (Dimaprit), given as aerosol (1% solution for 2 min) or I.V. (2 mg/kg), was without effect on activity of four airway rapidly adapting receptors. These receptors were stimulated, however, by the H1-agonist 2,(2 pyridylethylamine) dihydrochloride (PEA), administered both as aerosol (from a 10% solution) and I.V. (0.4--2 mg/kg). These stimulant effects were abolished by chlorpheniramine. 5. The results indicate that stimulation of airway rapidly adapting receptors by histamine is mediated by histamine H1-receptors.", "PMID": 430433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_433", "title": "Effects of central administation of probenecid on fevers produced by leukocytic pyrogen and PGE2 in the rabbit.", "content": "1. Single intracerebroventricular (I.C.V.) injections of probenecid (PBCD, 0.125--0.5 mg) enhanced and prolonged fever caused by I.V. administration of leukocytic pyrogen (LP) in rabbits resting in neutral (23 degrees C), cold (10 degrees C) and hot (30 degrees C) environments. Similar effects were produced by single I.C.V. injections of PBCD given before PGE2 (0.5 microgram) was injected I.C.V. in the three ambient temperatures. 2. Fever produced by IV. LP was also prolonged by infusion and by multiple injections of PBCD. 3. PBCD given I.P. (100 mg/kg) enhanced and prolonged fever caused by I.V. injection of Salmonella typhosa endotoxin. 4. Hyperthermia produced by I.C.V. PGE2 was not augmented by subsequent PBCD infusion. However, pre-treatment with PBCD followed by PGE2 injection and PBCD infusion caused hyperthermia that was very high and prolonged, and, in some cases, lethal. 5. Acetaminophen (2 mg, I.C.V.) and indomethacin (10 mg/kg, I.V.) lowered body temperature when given during fever induced by LP and prolonged by PBCD infusion. 6. The concentration of PGE in cerebrospinal fluid (c.s.f.) samples taken from the third or lateral ventricles rose or stabilized during PBCD infusions made during LP fever. However, similar changes in PGE concentration also occurred during control infusions when body temperature was low. 7. We conclude that termination of the actions of both central endogenous pyrogen and centrally administered PGE2, and the subsequent reduction of fevers produced by them, require a PBCD-sensitive facilitated transport system. The reduction of PBCD-prolonged PL fevers by antipyretics which block PGE synthesis suggests that prolongation by PBCD of LP fever is not due to blockade of PGE transport in a subsequent step in fever mediation per se, but is due to inhibition of transport of LP itself, or of other mediators associated with it.", "contents": "Effects of central administation of probenecid on fevers produced by leukocytic pyrogen and PGE2 in the rabbit. 1. Single intracerebroventricular (I.C.V.) injections of probenecid (PBCD, 0.125--0.5 mg) enhanced and prolonged fever caused by I.V. administration of leukocytic pyrogen (LP) in rabbits resting in neutral (23 degrees C), cold (10 degrees C) and hot (30 degrees C) environments. Similar effects were produced by single I.C.V. injections of PBCD given before PGE2 (0.5 microgram) was injected I.C.V. in the three ambient temperatures. 2. Fever produced by IV. LP was also prolonged by infusion and by multiple injections of PBCD. 3. PBCD given I.P. (100 mg/kg) enhanced and prolonged fever caused by I.V. injection of Salmonella typhosa endotoxin. 4. Hyperthermia produced by I.C.V. PGE2 was not augmented by subsequent PBCD infusion. However, pre-treatment with PBCD followed by PGE2 injection and PBCD infusion caused hyperthermia that was very high and prolonged, and, in some cases, lethal. 5. Acetaminophen (2 mg, I.C.V.) and indomethacin (10 mg/kg, I.V.) lowered body temperature when given during fever induced by LP and prolonged by PBCD infusion. 6. The concentration of PGE in cerebrospinal fluid (c.s.f.) samples taken from the third or lateral ventricles rose or stabilized during PBCD infusions made during LP fever. However, similar changes in PGE concentration also occurred during control infusions when body temperature was low. 7. We conclude that termination of the actions of both central endogenous pyrogen and centrally administered PGE2, and the subsequent reduction of fevers produced by them, require a PBCD-sensitive facilitated transport system. The reduction of PBCD-prolonged PL fevers by antipyretics which block PGE synthesis suggests that prolongation by PBCD of LP fever is not due to blockade of PGE transport in a subsequent step in fever mediation per se, but is due to inhibition of transport of LP itself, or of other mediators associated with it.", "PMID": 430434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_434", "title": "The origin of the hind limb vasodilatation evoked by stimulation of the motor cortex in the cat.", "content": "In cats under Althesin anaesthesia, the hind limb area of the motor cortex has been stimulated by means of monopolar, semi-micro-electrodes with careful experimental control so as to avoid reflex effects evoked through stimulation of meningeal afferent fibres or stimulus spread to non-cortical structures. 2. Localized cortical stimulation which elicited muscle contractions in the contralateral hind limb also elicited vasodilation in the same limb: the stimulus threshold was the same for both effects, and the magnitude of the dilatation was related to the strength of contraction. 3. Reduction of the somatic motor response, caused by lesions in the medullary pyramidal tract, was accompanied by a parallel reduction of the vascular response. 4. Prevention of the motor response by gallamine or by spinal cord section at L4--L5 (which leaves the sympathetic outflow to the hind limbs intact) led to abolition of the vascular response. During recovery from gallamine, contraction and vasodilatation returned in parallel. 5. The muscle vasodilatation was insensitive to atropine or guanethidine. 6. It is concluded that the hind limb vasodilatation observed on stimulation of the motor cortex is simply a post-contraction hyperaemia, and that it is independent of the sympathic nervous system. Previous conclusions of a sympathetically mediated vasodilatation probably resulted from inadequate control of the stimulus or a failure to recognize weak muscle contractions.", "contents": "The origin of the hind limb vasodilatation evoked by stimulation of the motor cortex in the cat. In cats under Althesin anaesthesia, the hind limb area of the motor cortex has been stimulated by means of monopolar, semi-micro-electrodes with careful experimental control so as to avoid reflex effects evoked through stimulation of meningeal afferent fibres or stimulus spread to non-cortical structures. 2. Localized cortical stimulation which elicited muscle contractions in the contralateral hind limb also elicited vasodilation in the same limb: the stimulus threshold was the same for both effects, and the magnitude of the dilatation was related to the strength of contraction. 3. Reduction of the somatic motor response, caused by lesions in the medullary pyramidal tract, was accompanied by a parallel reduction of the vascular response. 4. Prevention of the motor response by gallamine or by spinal cord section at L4--L5 (which leaves the sympathetic outflow to the hind limbs intact) led to abolition of the vascular response. During recovery from gallamine, contraction and vasodilatation returned in parallel. 5. The muscle vasodilatation was insensitive to atropine or guanethidine. 6. It is concluded that the hind limb vasodilatation observed on stimulation of the motor cortex is simply a post-contraction hyperaemia, and that it is independent of the sympathic nervous system. Previous conclusions of a sympathetically mediated vasodilatation probably resulted from inadequate control of the stimulus or a failure to recognize weak muscle contractions.", "PMID": 430435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_435", "title": "The effects of a disulphonic stilbene on chloride and bicarbonate transport in the turtle bladder.", "content": "1. In turtle bladders bathed by Na-free media containing Cl and HCO3, the mucosa is electropositive to the serosa. Serosally applied 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyano-2,2'-disulphonic stilbene (SITS) reduces the p.d. and Isc by 100%, and reduces the rate of net Cl reabsorption in some bladders but not in others. 2. In the absence of exogenous HCO2 (Cl present), SITS reduces the p.d. and Isc by 100%, and reduces the rate of mucosal acidification by 80%; net Cl reabsorption is not detectable under these HCO3-free bathing conditions. 3. In the absence of exogenous Cl (HCO3, present), the mucosa is also electropositive to the serosa and serosally applied SITS reverses the orientation of the p.d. and Isc so that the mucosa becomes electronegative to the serosa. 4. This constitutes sufficient evidence for the active, electrogenic secretion of an anion, probably HCO3. These data are explained by an analogue of discrete, electrogenic pumps and paths for the reabsorption of Na, Cl, and HCO3, and the secretion of HCO3.", "contents": "The effects of a disulphonic stilbene on chloride and bicarbonate transport in the turtle bladder. 1. In turtle bladders bathed by Na-free media containing Cl and HCO3, the mucosa is electropositive to the serosa. Serosally applied 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyano-2,2'-disulphonic stilbene (SITS) reduces the p.d. and Isc by 100%, and reduces the rate of net Cl reabsorption in some bladders but not in others. 2. In the absence of exogenous HCO2 (Cl present), SITS reduces the p.d. and Isc by 100%, and reduces the rate of mucosal acidification by 80%; net Cl reabsorption is not detectable under these HCO3-free bathing conditions. 3. In the absence of exogenous Cl (HCO3, present), the mucosa is also electropositive to the serosa and serosally applied SITS reverses the orientation of the p.d. and Isc so that the mucosa becomes electronegative to the serosa. 4. This constitutes sufficient evidence for the active, electrogenic secretion of an anion, probably HCO3. These data are explained by an analogue of discrete, electrogenic pumps and paths for the reabsorption of Na, Cl, and HCO3, and the secretion of HCO3.", "PMID": 430436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_436", "title": "Extraversion, neuroticism, and date of birth: a Southern hemisphere study.", "content": "The aim of this study was to determine whether variations in Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) scoring among zodiacal birth groups follow a similar pattern for Ss born in the Southern hemisphere to that which has been reported for Northern hemisphere Ss. EPI and birth data were obtained from 450 adult Ss, of whom 338 were New Zealand born. Results for Extraversion significantly matched British findings (p less than .01). Results for Neuroticism were ambiguous. It is concluded that seasonal and climatic influences are unlikely to explain the Extraversion differences between birth groups.", "contents": "Extraversion, neuroticism, and date of birth: a Southern hemisphere study. The aim of this study was to determine whether variations in Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) scoring among zodiacal birth groups follow a similar pattern for Ss born in the Southern hemisphere to that which has been reported for Northern hemisphere Ss. EPI and birth data were obtained from 450 adult Ss, of whom 338 were New Zealand born. Results for Extraversion significantly matched British findings (p less than .01). Results for Neuroticism were ambiguous. It is concluded that seasonal and climatic influences are unlikely to explain the Extraversion differences between birth groups.", "PMID": 430444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_437", "title": "Anxiety level as an indicator of academic performance during first semester of graduate work.", "content": "This article presents the results of an empirically based research study that examines the use of the trait and state anxiety level of first semester graduate students as a potential indicator of academic performance (N = 63 males and females. The findings reveal that the higher the student's Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score, the greater his chances of achieving a higher grade point average (GPA) at the end of his first semester of graduate work. Moreover, the lower his A-Trait anxiety score at the time of admission, the greater his likelihood of earning a higher first semester GPA.", "contents": "Anxiety level as an indicator of academic performance during first semester of graduate work. This article presents the results of an empirically based research study that examines the use of the trait and state anxiety level of first semester graduate students as a potential indicator of academic performance (N = 63 males and females. The findings reveal that the higher the student's Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score, the greater his chances of achieving a higher grade point average (GPA) at the end of his first semester of graduate work. Moreover, the lower his A-Trait anxiety score at the time of admission, the greater his likelihood of earning a higher first semester GPA.", "PMID": 430445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_438", "title": "Reported physiological and psychological symptoms of tobacco smoke pollution in nonsmoking and smoking college students.", "content": "A 147-item questionnaire concerning the relevance of the nonsmokers' right movement to college and university campuses was administered to 307 University of New Hampshire undergraduates. The fourth section of the questionnaire consisted of 28 questions on symptoms caused by smoke pollution. Responses to these questions were given on a five-category frequency of occurrence scale. Frequencies, descriptive statistics, and t tests contrasting current smokers from nonsmokers were presented. Generally sizable percentages of nonsmokers reported adverse physiological and psychological symptoms from tobacco smoke pollution. Smokers reported a similar pattern of responding but at lower frequencies of occurrence.", "contents": "Reported physiological and psychological symptoms of tobacco smoke pollution in nonsmoking and smoking college students. A 147-item questionnaire concerning the relevance of the nonsmokers' right movement to college and university campuses was administered to 307 University of New Hampshire undergraduates. The fourth section of the questionnaire consisted of 28 questions on symptoms caused by smoke pollution. Responses to these questions were given on a five-category frequency of occurrence scale. Frequencies, descriptive statistics, and t tests contrasting current smokers from nonsmokers were presented. Generally sizable percentages of nonsmokers reported adverse physiological and psychological symptoms from tobacco smoke pollution. Smokers reported a similar pattern of responding but at lower frequencies of occurrence.", "PMID": 430446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_439", "title": "The effects of day care on young children: an environmental psychology approach.", "content": "The present paper presents a framework for characterizing the emotional impact of day care environments and for predicting the consequent effects on child emotional reactions to day care and to separation, extent of active involvement in day care, and long-term effects of day care on cognitive and intellectual development. The physical and social environment of day care is characterized in terms of its emotional impact with use of three orthogonal dimensions: pleasure-displeasure, arousal-nonarousal, and dominance-submissiveness. Approach toward, or preference for, any setting is then predicted in terms of its emotional impact. Finally, day care settings are ordered in terms of their beneficial-detrimental effects by simply considering children's preference levels (approach) for the settings.", "contents": "The effects of day care on young children: an environmental psychology approach. The present paper presents a framework for characterizing the emotional impact of day care environments and for predicting the consequent effects on child emotional reactions to day care and to separation, extent of active involvement in day care, and long-term effects of day care on cognitive and intellectual development. The physical and social environment of day care is characterized in terms of its emotional impact with use of three orthogonal dimensions: pleasure-displeasure, arousal-nonarousal, and dominance-submissiveness. Approach toward, or preference for, any setting is then predicted in terms of its emotional impact. Finally, day care settings are ordered in terms of their beneficial-detrimental effects by simply considering children's preference levels (approach) for the settings.", "PMID": 430447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_440", "title": "Construct validation of children's behavior problem dimensions: relationship to activity level, impulsivity, and soft neurological signs.", "content": "A construct validation study of dimensions of children's behavior problems was carried out with use of multiple linear regression. The Ss were 76 latency-aged boys in residential treatment. The dimensions involved were Conduct Disorder and Inadequacy-Immaturity. The predictor variables were activity level, impulsivity, and soft signs of neurological damage. Results indicated that Conduct Disorder was significantly predicted by activity level, in combination with impulsivity. Inadequacy-Immaturity was significantly predicted by activity level and soft signs. A third dimension, Personality Disorder, was found to be uncorrelated with the three predictor variables.", "contents": "Construct validation of children's behavior problem dimensions: relationship to activity level, impulsivity, and soft neurological signs. A construct validation study of dimensions of children's behavior problems was carried out with use of multiple linear regression. The Ss were 76 latency-aged boys in residential treatment. The dimensions involved were Conduct Disorder and Inadequacy-Immaturity. The predictor variables were activity level, impulsivity, and soft signs of neurological damage. Results indicated that Conduct Disorder was significantly predicted by activity level, in combination with impulsivity. Inadequacy-Immaturity was significantly predicted by activity level and soft signs. A third dimension, Personality Disorder, was found to be uncorrelated with the three predictor variables.", "PMID": 430448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_441", "title": "Termination locus of palmar main line A of the left hand in relation to mental pathology.", "content": "A ridge originating at digital triradius point a (palmar main line A) was measured from photographs in three groups of Ss, each composed of 36 males: 1) chronic, hospitalized schizophrenics; 2) chronic, hospitalized patients classified as nonpsychotic; 3) business and professional men who were members of a service club. Seven naive judges measured the point of exit of main line A at the ulnar edge of the left palm in each of the 108 SS. Results were as follows: (a) Range of scores in units used was 5.00 to 7.75; total variance, .26 (N = 756). (b) Means of the two control groups were identical, but schizophrenic and control group difference failed to meet the .05 level of significance. (c) Very significant differences were found among judges' means. (d) Median interjudge r = about + .69.", "contents": "Termination locus of palmar main line A of the left hand in relation to mental pathology. A ridge originating at digital triradius point a (palmar main line A) was measured from photographs in three groups of Ss, each composed of 36 males: 1) chronic, hospitalized schizophrenics; 2) chronic, hospitalized patients classified as nonpsychotic; 3) business and professional men who were members of a service club. Seven naive judges measured the point of exit of main line A at the ulnar edge of the left palm in each of the 108 SS. Results were as follows: (a) Range of scores in units used was 5.00 to 7.75; total variance, .26 (N = 756). (b) Means of the two control groups were identical, but schizophrenic and control group difference failed to meet the .05 level of significance. (c) Very significant differences were found among judges' means. (d) Median interjudge r = about + .69.", "PMID": 430449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_442", "title": "Relationship between attitudes toward feminism and levels of dogmatism, achievement, and anxiety.", "content": "More than 1,500 American women from a wide range of age, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds were administered measures of dogmatism, anxiety, achievement, and feminism. One hundred nine Ss who scored above the 75 percentile on the Attitudes Toward Women Scale (high supporters of the feminist movement) were matched with 109 Ss who scored below the 25 percentile on the Scale (low supporters of feminism). Statistical analyses showed that women who strongly supported women's equality were (a) less close-minded; (b) more goal oriented toward nontraditional roles (vocational, educational, etc.); and (c) no different from the low supporter group in anxiety level or ego strength on four out of five dimensions. These results support the notion that feminist supporters as a group are as well adjusted as their nonfeminist counterparts on these specific traits.", "contents": "Relationship between attitudes toward feminism and levels of dogmatism, achievement, and anxiety. More than 1,500 American women from a wide range of age, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds were administered measures of dogmatism, anxiety, achievement, and feminism. One hundred nine Ss who scored above the 75 percentile on the Attitudes Toward Women Scale (high supporters of the feminist movement) were matched with 109 Ss who scored below the 25 percentile on the Scale (low supporters of feminism). Statistical analyses showed that women who strongly supported women's equality were (a) less close-minded; (b) more goal oriented toward nontraditional roles (vocational, educational, etc.); and (c) no different from the low supporter group in anxiety level or ego strength on four out of five dimensions. These results support the notion that feminist supporters as a group are as well adjusted as their nonfeminist counterparts on these specific traits.", "PMID": 430450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_443", "title": "[Diagnostic value of scanning in post-splenectomy left subphrenic abscess. A report on 5 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Diagnosis of a left subphrenic abscess after splenectomy is often difficult. C.T. scanning was used to establish the diagnosis in 5 patients with subphrenic abscesses. The examination is simple and gives valid results. Needle aspirations, controlled by scanning, can confirm the diagnosis or be used for drainage of the abscess.", "contents": "[Diagnostic value of scanning in post-splenectomy left subphrenic abscess. A report on 5 cases (author's transl)]. Diagnosis of a left subphrenic abscess after splenectomy is often difficult. C.T. scanning was used to establish the diagnosis in 5 patients with subphrenic abscesses. The examination is simple and gives valid results. Needle aspirations, controlled by scanning, can confirm the diagnosis or be used for drainage of the abscess.", "PMID": 430451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_444", "title": "[Juvenile polyposis. A report on two cases (author's transl)].", "content": "The discovery of multiple polypi in a small child does not necessarily indicate that this is a case of familial adenomatosis. Two cases of juvenile polyposis were confirmed by histological examinations, and their clinical and, more particularly, their radiological characteristics were studied. The only way to explore the full extent of the lesions in a satisfactory manner is by double-contrast examination of the whole colon. The authors stress the value of radiological examinations, though the frequency with which they should be carried out is open to discussion. Review of the published literature reveals that the association of true familial polyposis or adenocarcinomatosis exists in the same family or even in the same patient. Diagnostic difficulties are usually due to the fortuitons co-existence of a lymphoid hyperplasia, the significance of which is still not known.", "contents": "[Juvenile polyposis. A report on two cases (author's transl)]. The discovery of multiple polypi in a small child does not necessarily indicate that this is a case of familial adenomatosis. Two cases of juvenile polyposis were confirmed by histological examinations, and their clinical and, more particularly, their radiological characteristics were studied. The only way to explore the full extent of the lesions in a satisfactory manner is by double-contrast examination of the whole colon. The authors stress the value of radiological examinations, though the frequency with which they should be carried out is open to discussion. Review of the published literature reveals that the association of true familial polyposis or adenocarcinomatosis exists in the same family or even in the same patient. Diagnostic difficulties are usually due to the fortuitons co-existence of a lymphoid hyperplasia, the significance of which is still not known.", "PMID": 430452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_445", "title": "[Pancreatic pseudocysts simulating a mass in the left kidney. A report on 4 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Pancreatic pseudocysts were observed to simulate a mass in the upper pole of the left kidney in 4 patients. Urographic investigation of these pseudocysts revealed deformities similar in all respects to those produced by a cyst, though in two cases the mass was surrounded by a thick wall. A better definition of the parenchymatous deformity was obtained by the use of true trunk profile nephrotomograms. The value of ultrasonography, using the grey scale, and of transparietal puncture with measurement of amylase levels, is stressed. The authors discuss the problem of establishing the precise location--anterior to, surrounding, or within the kidney--of these pseudocysts.", "contents": "[Pancreatic pseudocysts simulating a mass in the left kidney. A report on 4 cases (author's transl)]. Pancreatic pseudocysts were observed to simulate a mass in the upper pole of the left kidney in 4 patients. Urographic investigation of these pseudocysts revealed deformities similar in all respects to those produced by a cyst, though in two cases the mass was surrounded by a thick wall. A better definition of the parenchymatous deformity was obtained by the use of true trunk profile nephrotomograms. The value of ultrasonography, using the grey scale, and of transparietal puncture with measurement of amylase levels, is stressed. The authors discuss the problem of establishing the precise location--anterior to, surrounding, or within the kidney--of these pseudocysts.", "PMID": 430454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_446", "title": "[Intestinal obstruction with feces (meconium ileus equivalent) in the course of mucoviscidosis. Radiographic diagnosis (author's transl].", "content": "Meconium ileus equivalent is a late intestinal occlusion occurring in patients suffering from mucoviscidosis. Three cases are reported in children aged, respectively, 3 years, 6 years and 10 years. In one of the observations (three year old girl), the intestinal obstruction with feces was first manifestation of a mucoviscidosis that was previously undetected. The radiological signs are identical to those found in cases of neonatal meconium ileus: intestinal obstruction and accumulation of closely spaced matter in a distended ileum (terminal part). As in cases of meconium ileus without complications, treatment consisted of enemas with water-soluble products. The high osmotic pressure of these products made it possible to remove the obstruction.", "contents": "[Intestinal obstruction with feces (meconium ileus equivalent) in the course of mucoviscidosis. Radiographic diagnosis (author's transl]. Meconium ileus equivalent is a late intestinal occlusion occurring in patients suffering from mucoviscidosis. Three cases are reported in children aged, respectively, 3 years, 6 years and 10 years. In one of the observations (three year old girl), the intestinal obstruction with feces was first manifestation of a mucoviscidosis that was previously undetected. The radiological signs are identical to those found in cases of neonatal meconium ileus: intestinal obstruction and accumulation of closely spaced matter in a distended ileum (terminal part). As in cases of meconium ileus without complications, treatment consisted of enemas with water-soluble products. The high osmotic pressure of these products made it possible to remove the obstruction.", "PMID": 430455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_447", "title": "[Thoracic and retroperitoneal cystic lymphangiomyomatosis. Value of lymphography].", "content": "Standard radiological examinations in a woman of 40 years of age with a pneumothorax and chylothorax revealed the presence of a posterior mediastinal mass compressing the oesophagus, and an interstitial syndrome. Retroperitoneal and mediastinal cystic lymphangiomas were found on lymphography. These findings are in accordance with the lymphangiomyomatosis described by Cornog and Enterline in 1966. The similarity between this disease and tuberculous sclerosis is underlined in present-day publications.", "contents": "[Thoracic and retroperitoneal cystic lymphangiomyomatosis. Value of lymphography]. Standard radiological examinations in a woman of 40 years of age with a pneumothorax and chylothorax revealed the presence of a posterior mediastinal mass compressing the oesophagus, and an interstitial syndrome. Retroperitoneal and mediastinal cystic lymphangiomas were found on lymphography. These findings are in accordance with the lymphangiomyomatosis described by Cornog and Enterline in 1966. The similarity between this disease and tuberculous sclerosis is underlined in present-day publications.", "PMID": 430456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_448", "title": "[Tomographic incidence of the petrous bone by the controlateral suboccipital approach, in the plane of the ear-drum and in line with the general axis of the ossicules (author's transl)].", "content": "Definition and technique of the Dulac 7 incidence. Diagrams 1 and 2 give details of the anatomical orientations which define this incidence. It is:--centered on the head of the malleus,--orientated in the plane of the ossicules or in the neighbouring plane of the ear-drum,--parallel to the general axis of the ossicules,--close to the perpendicular to the tegment tympani. This incidence is easy to obtain with our technique, using a fixed intracranial centering point, The transversal linear scanning is very effective and can be completed in a very short period. It should be noted, however, that in obese subjects with short necks, the entry point of the incidence is difficult to obtain as there is interposition of the neck muscles. Under these conditions, one should try to be as close to this entry point as possible, knowing that the results are still valid. Tomographic anatomy. A close examination of the text of figures 6, 7, and 8 will familiarize the reader with the tomographic anatomy of this incidence. To summarize the important information obtained from the Dulac 7 incidence we should note that in tomographies of normal petrous bones:--the attic is always perfectly visible, expecially its internal and external walls throughout their total length, and more especially the anterior wall;--the ossicles (head of the malleus, body of the incus, and their articulation) are always perfectly visible and distinct;--the inferior processes of the malleus and incus are always visible;--the external wall of the attic is visible throughout its length, more especially the anterior and posterior portions;--the anterior and posterior contours of the external auditory canal are particularly well-defined. Finally, this incidence also gives clear images of the temporo-mandibular joint, the antral region, the superior canal, and the internal auditory canal. A large experience of this incidence is required before interpreting the image of the foramen ovale. Tomographic pathognomonic signs. The texts of figures 9 to 24 are sufficiently demonstrative of the richness of the pathological data obtained from this incidence, without needing to repeat them here. We would only add that the degree of calcification of the ossicles and the anterior wall of the attic can be precisely determined. This incidence, therefore, gives valuable information in almost all middle ear affections. It is also necessary in order to study the external auditory canal.", "contents": "[Tomographic incidence of the petrous bone by the controlateral suboccipital approach, in the plane of the ear-drum and in line with the general axis of the ossicules (author's transl)]. Definition and technique of the Dulac 7 incidence. Diagrams 1 and 2 give details of the anatomical orientations which define this incidence. It is:--centered on the head of the malleus,--orientated in the plane of the ossicules or in the neighbouring plane of the ear-drum,--parallel to the general axis of the ossicules,--close to the perpendicular to the tegment tympani. This incidence is easy to obtain with our technique, using a fixed intracranial centering point, The transversal linear scanning is very effective and can be completed in a very short period. It should be noted, however, that in obese subjects with short necks, the entry point of the incidence is difficult to obtain as there is interposition of the neck muscles. Under these conditions, one should try to be as close to this entry point as possible, knowing that the results are still valid. Tomographic anatomy. A close examination of the text of figures 6, 7, and 8 will familiarize the reader with the tomographic anatomy of this incidence. To summarize the important information obtained from the Dulac 7 incidence we should note that in tomographies of normal petrous bones:--the attic is always perfectly visible, expecially its internal and external walls throughout their total length, and more especially the anterior wall;--the ossicles (head of the malleus, body of the incus, and their articulation) are always perfectly visible and distinct;--the inferior processes of the malleus and incus are always visible;--the external wall of the attic is visible throughout its length, more especially the anterior and posterior portions;--the anterior and posterior contours of the external auditory canal are particularly well-defined. Finally, this incidence also gives clear images of the temporo-mandibular joint, the antral region, the superior canal, and the internal auditory canal. A large experience of this incidence is required before interpreting the image of the foramen ovale. Tomographic pathognomonic signs. The texts of figures 9 to 24 are sufficiently demonstrative of the richness of the pathological data obtained from this incidence, without needing to repeat them here. We would only add that the degree of calcification of the ossicles and the anterior wall of the attic can be precisely determined. This incidence, therefore, gives valuable information in almost all middle ear affections. It is also necessary in order to study the external auditory canal.", "PMID": 430457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_449", "title": "[Computerized tomography of craniopharyngiomas. Therapeutic consequences].", "content": "An analysis was made of the results of C.T. scanning in 43 patients with craniopharyngiomas. Filling of the suprasellar cisternae was observed in most cases, together with dilatation of the lateral ventricles. The appearances of the tumor before and after intravenous injection of the contrast medium are described and the frequency with wich calcification, cysts, and lipid densities were noted is reported. Regular C.T. scanning can define operative indications for craniopharyngiomas as a function of the results obtained.", "contents": "[Computerized tomography of craniopharyngiomas. Therapeutic consequences]. An analysis was made of the results of C.T. scanning in 43 patients with craniopharyngiomas. Filling of the suprasellar cisternae was observed in most cases, together with dilatation of the lateral ventricles. The appearances of the tumor before and after intravenous injection of the contrast medium are described and the frequency with wich calcification, cysts, and lipid densities were noted is reported. Regular C.T. scanning can define operative indications for craniopharyngiomas as a function of the results obtained.", "PMID": 430459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_450", "title": "[Unilateral dysplasia of the circle of Willis with multiple distal stenoses (author's transl)].", "content": "Neurological and clinical examinations were found to be normal in a woman aged 40 years who had had a single generalized epileptic seizure. Rediological examinations demonstrated a spiral-shaped calcification above and laterally to the left sella turcica. This corresponded to changes in the C 1 segment of the left carotid sinus, which was partly stenosed distally, with left unilateral abnormalities of the circle of Willis and multiple distal stenoses of the left sylvian and vertebro-basilar arteries. Scanning demonstrated that these had been present for a long time, but it is not possible to establish the diagnosis on an etiological basis as no similar radiological findings have been published.", "contents": "[Unilateral dysplasia of the circle of Willis with multiple distal stenoses (author's transl)]. Neurological and clinical examinations were found to be normal in a woman aged 40 years who had had a single generalized epileptic seizure. Rediological examinations demonstrated a spiral-shaped calcification above and laterally to the left sella turcica. This corresponded to changes in the C 1 segment of the left carotid sinus, which was partly stenosed distally, with left unilateral abnormalities of the circle of Willis and multiple distal stenoses of the left sylvian and vertebro-basilar arteries. Scanning demonstrated that these had been present for a long time, but it is not possible to establish the diagnosis on an etiological basis as no similar radiological findings have been published.", "PMID": 430460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_451", "title": "[A case of pseudocyst of adrenal gland (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of pseudocyst of adrenal gland is reported. The first findings have been acute pain and falling hematocrit. Then hepatomegaly is present. All the investigations--ultrasonography, radionuclidescan, arteriography--failed to demonstrate the origin and saided liver cyst. The diagnosis is operative. The pseudocyst hemorrhagic are 32% of adrenal cysts. We think the computer tomography will be an important contribution for the diagnosis of false hepatomegaly.", "contents": "[A case of pseudocyst of adrenal gland (author's transl)]. A case of pseudocyst of adrenal gland is reported. The first findings have been acute pain and falling hematocrit. Then hepatomegaly is present. All the investigations--ultrasonography, radionuclidescan, arteriography--failed to demonstrate the origin and saided liver cyst. The diagnosis is operative. The pseudocyst hemorrhagic are 32% of adrenal cysts. We think the computer tomography will be an important contribution for the diagnosis of false hepatomegaly.", "PMID": 430461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_452", "title": "[Success rate of ultrasonic exploration of the pancreas. Results of 266 followed-up cases].", "content": "In two series amounting to 266 cases, the overall success rate of ultrasonic diagnosis, in pancreatic lesions was 94%. Since most of pancreatic lesions, when clinical symptoms are present, are already rather large, imaging improvements did not enhance accurary, except for small lesions. The tenative analysis of small abnormalities can be responsible, with last generation machines, for an increase of false positive diagnoses.", "contents": "[Success rate of ultrasonic exploration of the pancreas. Results of 266 followed-up cases]. In two series amounting to 266 cases, the overall success rate of ultrasonic diagnosis, in pancreatic lesions was 94%. Since most of pancreatic lesions, when clinical symptoms are present, are already rather large, imaging improvements did not enhance accurary, except for small lesions. The tenative analysis of small abnormalities can be responsible, with last generation machines, for an increase of false positive diagnoses.", "PMID": 430464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_453", "title": "Inhibition of uptake of catecholamines by benzylamine derivatives.", "content": "Eight benzylamine analogues of bretylium were synthesized, including N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-methylbenzylamine (5), and evaluated as inhibitors of accumulation of norepinephrine and dopamine in rat brain homogenates. All compounds gave an I50 value (concentration of inhibitor that causes 50% reduction in control accumulation) considerably lower against norepinephrine in cortex that against dopamine in striatum. High potency (low I50) and high specificity (preference for inhibition of norepinephrine transport compared to dopamine transport) are associated with a (2-chloroethyl) moiety, tertiary amino center, and ortho substitution of the aromatic function in the benzylamino group. 5 also inhibited the uptake of norepinephrine in rabbit aorta, indicating its effect against the uptake process in general. Cocaine protects against the effects of 5 in coincubation studies when compared to the appropriate controls, indicating that 5 acts at or close to the site of action of cocaine which is thought to be the uptake carrier site.", "contents": "Inhibition of uptake of catecholamines by benzylamine derivatives. Eight benzylamine analogues of bretylium were synthesized, including N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-methylbenzylamine (5), and evaluated as inhibitors of accumulation of norepinephrine and dopamine in rat brain homogenates. All compounds gave an I50 value (concentration of inhibitor that causes 50% reduction in control accumulation) considerably lower against norepinephrine in cortex that against dopamine in striatum. High potency (low I50) and high specificity (preference for inhibition of norepinephrine transport compared to dopamine transport) are associated with a (2-chloroethyl) moiety, tertiary amino center, and ortho substitution of the aromatic function in the benzylamino group. 5 also inhibited the uptake of norepinephrine in rabbit aorta, indicating its effect against the uptake process in general. Cocaine protects against the effects of 5 in coincubation studies when compared to the appropriate controls, indicating that 5 acts at or close to the site of action of cocaine which is thought to be the uptake carrier site.", "PMID": 430475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_454", "title": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships for biguanides, carbamimidates, and bisbiguanides as inhibitors of Streptococcus mutans No. 6715.", "content": "Thirty-seven compounds, including 17 biguanides, 6 carbamimidates, and 14 bisbiguanides, were evaluated for potential antiplaque activity by measuring their minimum inhibitory concentrations [MIC (M)] against Streptococcus mutans no. 6715. Linear regression analysis was conducted with the log 1/MIC (M) values and log P, pi, sigma, and MR. The best correlation for the biguanides (r2 = 0.92) was obtained with log P and (log P)2. When the biguanides were included with the carbamimidates, essentially the same correlation (r2 = 0.91) was obtained with log P and (log P)2. The best correlation for the bisbiguanides (r2 = 0.70) was also obtained with log P and (log P)2. Use of an indicator variable (I) for the bisgiguanides allowed all three groups to be included in one equation, which accounted for over 87% of the variance in the data for inhibition of bacterial growth. These results from the classical parabolic model were also compared with those from the recently developed bilinear model.", "contents": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships for biguanides, carbamimidates, and bisbiguanides as inhibitors of Streptococcus mutans No. 6715. Thirty-seven compounds, including 17 biguanides, 6 carbamimidates, and 14 bisbiguanides, were evaluated for potential antiplaque activity by measuring their minimum inhibitory concentrations [MIC (M)] against Streptococcus mutans no. 6715. Linear regression analysis was conducted with the log 1/MIC (M) values and log P, pi, sigma, and MR. The best correlation for the biguanides (r2 = 0.92) was obtained with log P and (log P)2. When the biguanides were included with the carbamimidates, essentially the same correlation (r2 = 0.91) was obtained with log P and (log P)2. The best correlation for the bisbiguanides (r2 = 0.70) was also obtained with log P and (log P)2. Use of an indicator variable (I) for the bisgiguanides allowed all three groups to be included in one equation, which accounted for over 87% of the variance in the data for inhibition of bacterial growth. These results from the classical parabolic model were also compared with those from the recently developed bilinear model.", "PMID": 430476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_455", "title": "Structure-activity relationships of dimeric Catharanthus alkaloids. 2. Experimental antitumor activities of N-substituted deacetylvinblastine amide (vindesine) sulfates.", "content": "While structure-activity relationships for vinblastine (VLB), vincristine, deacetyl-VLB, and deacetyl-VLB amide (vindesine, VDS) in several tumor and leukemia models have been reported previously, the present study explores these relationships for a series of N-substituted vindesine analogues. These compounds were prepared from the reaction of deacetyl-VLB acid azide with the appropriate amines and were characterized by mass spectral analysis, 1H and 13C NMR spectra, electrometric titration, and infrared spectra. N-Alkylvindesines have reduced activity compared to that of VDS against the Gardner lymphosarcoma (GLS). N-beta-Hydroxyethyl-VDS surpasses vindesine in its activity against the Ridgway osteogenic sarcoma and the GLS, whereas against the B16 melanoma it is less active than VDS. N-beta-(4-Hydroxyphenethyl)-VDS, envisaged as a substrate for the enzyme tryosinase, was shown to be more active than VDS against the B16 melanoma but has only marginal activity against the GLS. In terms of collective antitumor activity against the model systems used, vindesine emerges as the congener with optimum qualities. Bis(N-ethylidenevindesine) disulfide, the first example of a bridged bisvindesine and comparable to VDS in its antitumor profile, shows evidence of activity against a P388/VCR leukemia strain known to be resistant to maytansine as well as to vincristine.", "contents": "Structure-activity relationships of dimeric Catharanthus alkaloids. 2. Experimental antitumor activities of N-substituted deacetylvinblastine amide (vindesine) sulfates. While structure-activity relationships for vinblastine (VLB), vincristine, deacetyl-VLB, and deacetyl-VLB amide (vindesine, VDS) in several tumor and leukemia models have been reported previously, the present study explores these relationships for a series of N-substituted vindesine analogues. These compounds were prepared from the reaction of deacetyl-VLB acid azide with the appropriate amines and were characterized by mass spectral analysis, 1H and 13C NMR spectra, electrometric titration, and infrared spectra. N-Alkylvindesines have reduced activity compared to that of VDS against the Gardner lymphosarcoma (GLS). N-beta-Hydroxyethyl-VDS surpasses vindesine in its activity against the Ridgway osteogenic sarcoma and the GLS, whereas against the B16 melanoma it is less active than VDS. N-beta-(4-Hydroxyphenethyl)-VDS, envisaged as a substrate for the enzyme tryosinase, was shown to be more active than VDS against the B16 melanoma but has only marginal activity against the GLS. In terms of collective antitumor activity against the model systems used, vindesine emerges as the congener with optimum qualities. Bis(N-ethylidenevindesine) disulfide, the first example of a bridged bisvindesine and comparable to VDS in its antitumor profile, shows evidence of activity against a P388/VCR leukemia strain known to be resistant to maytansine as well as to vincristine.", "PMID": 430477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_456", "title": "Antianaphylactic agents. 1. 2-(Acylamino)oxazoles.", "content": "The synthesis and biological properties of 35 2-(acylamino)oxazoles are described. The majority of the compounds inhibit the release of slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) in vitro from sensitized guinea pig chopped lung. In addition, several of the compounds inhibited the release of SRS-A from passively sensitized human chopped lung and protected guinea pigs from the effects of anaphylaxis in a modified Herxheimer test.", "contents": "Antianaphylactic agents. 1. 2-(Acylamino)oxazoles. The synthesis and biological properties of 35 2-(acylamino)oxazoles are described. The majority of the compounds inhibit the release of slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) in vitro from sensitized guinea pig chopped lung. In addition, several of the compounds inhibited the release of SRS-A from passively sensitized human chopped lung and protected guinea pigs from the effects of anaphylaxis in a modified Herxheimer test.", "PMID": 430478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_457", "title": "Pharmacologically active sulfoximides: 5-hexyl-7-)S-methylsulfonimidoly) xanthone-2-carboxylic acid, a potent antiallergic agent.", "content": "The antiallergic activity of some xanthone derivatives containing a sulfoximide substitutent has been investigated. While 2-(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone itself was found to be inactive, a series of 7-(S-methylsulfonimidoly)-xanthone-2-carboxylic acids showed good levels of activity in the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis screen. N-Substituted sulfoximide derivatives were, without exception, less active than the corresponding unsubstituted compounds. The activity of the 7-(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone-2-carboxylic acids could be enhanced by the introduction of an alkyl or alkoxy substituent at C-5. As a result of these studies, 5-hexyl-7(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone-2-carboxylic acid has been selected for further investigation as an antipasthmatic agent.", "contents": "Pharmacologically active sulfoximides: 5-hexyl-7-)S-methylsulfonimidoly) xanthone-2-carboxylic acid, a potent antiallergic agent. The antiallergic activity of some xanthone derivatives containing a sulfoximide substitutent has been investigated. While 2-(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone itself was found to be inactive, a series of 7-(S-methylsulfonimidoly)-xanthone-2-carboxylic acids showed good levels of activity in the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis screen. N-Substituted sulfoximide derivatives were, without exception, less active than the corresponding unsubstituted compounds. The activity of the 7-(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone-2-carboxylic acids could be enhanced by the introduction of an alkyl or alkoxy substituent at C-5. As a result of these studies, 5-hexyl-7(S-methylsulfonimidoyl)xanthone-2-carboxylic acid has been selected for further investigation as an antipasthmatic agent.", "PMID": 430479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_458", "title": "Serotonin receptor binding affinities of tryptamine analogues.", "content": "Using a rat fundus model, the serotonin (5-HT) receptor binding affinities of 27 tryptamine analogues were determined. Factors which might affect affinity were examined, e.g., lipids solubility, as reflected by partition coefficient, and pKa. Structure-activity relationships were developed and are discussed in terms of substituents on the terminal amine, the side chain, and the indole 1 position, the 5 position, and at other positions on the indolic nucleus. If lipid solubility and metabolism can be accounted for, there appears to be a parallelism between 5-HT receptor binding affinities and the hallucinogenic (psychotomimetic) potencies of several of these compounds.", "contents": "Serotonin receptor binding affinities of tryptamine analogues. Using a rat fundus model, the serotonin (5-HT) receptor binding affinities of 27 tryptamine analogues were determined. Factors which might affect affinity were examined, e.g., lipids solubility, as reflected by partition coefficient, and pKa. Structure-activity relationships were developed and are discussed in terms of substituents on the terminal amine, the side chain, and the indole 1 position, the 5 position, and at other positions on the indolic nucleus. If lipid solubility and metabolism can be accounted for, there appears to be a parallelism between 5-HT receptor binding affinities and the hallucinogenic (psychotomimetic) potencies of several of these compounds.", "PMID": 430481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_459", "title": "Potential organ- or tumor-imaging agents. 18. Radioiodinated diamines and bisquaternaries.", "content": "The purpose of this research was to employ diamines and their quaternary derivatives as carrier molecules for gamma-emitting radiation. The diamine putrescine is widespread in nature and has been reported to selectively concentrate in the rat ventral prostate and pancreas. This study confirms the selective uptake of radioactivity in the rat ventral prostate, but not in the pancreas, following administration of [14C]putrescine. The radioiodinated analogues of putrescine showed no predilection for either of these organs. On the other hand, radioactivity associated with a radioidinated quaternary derivative (3) was found to accumulate incartilaginous tissues such as trachea, intervertebral disks, and chondrosarcoma tumor in a manner simular to hexamethonium.", "contents": "Potential organ- or tumor-imaging agents. 18. Radioiodinated diamines and bisquaternaries. The purpose of this research was to employ diamines and their quaternary derivatives as carrier molecules for gamma-emitting radiation. The diamine putrescine is widespread in nature and has been reported to selectively concentrate in the rat ventral prostate and pancreas. This study confirms the selective uptake of radioactivity in the rat ventral prostate, but not in the pancreas, following administration of [14C]putrescine. The radioiodinated analogues of putrescine showed no predilection for either of these organs. On the other hand, radioactivity associated with a radioidinated quaternary derivative (3) was found to accumulate incartilaginous tissues such as trachea, intervertebral disks, and chondrosarcoma tumor in a manner simular to hexamethonium.", "PMID": 430482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_460", "title": "A new chemical series active against African trypanosomes: benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts.", "content": "Antitrypanosomal activity for benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts is reported for the first time. Testing was conducted using Trypanosoma rhodesiense infected mice. Of 70 phosphorus-containing compounds tested, 21 were active. Sixteen of these active chemical species were benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts. Four were nonbenzyl triphenyl compounds. The remaining active drug was a benzyldiphenylphosphonium salt.", "contents": "A new chemical series active against African trypanosomes: benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts. Antitrypanosomal activity for benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts is reported for the first time. Testing was conducted using Trypanosoma rhodesiense infected mice. Of 70 phosphorus-containing compounds tested, 21 were active. Sixteen of these active chemical species were benzyltriphenylphosphonium salts. Four were nonbenzyl triphenyl compounds. The remaining active drug was a benzyldiphenylphosphonium salt.", "PMID": 430483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_461", "title": "Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 2,3,4,5,-tetrahydro-1,5-methano-1H-3-benzazepines.", "content": "2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-1,5-methano-1H-3benzazepine (4) has been synthesized from 2,3-dioxobenzonorbornene. Oxidative cleavage of the diketone to cis-1,3-indandicarboxylic acid, followed by closure to the corresponding amhydride, conversion to the imide, and lithium aluminum hydride reduction, gave 4. Compound 4 and its N-derivatives show no analgesic activity in the mouse hot-plate assay and little antagonist activity in a tail-flick assay.", "contents": "Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 2,3,4,5,-tetrahydro-1,5-methano-1H-3-benzazepines. 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-1,5-methano-1H-3benzazepine (4) has been synthesized from 2,3-dioxobenzonorbornene. Oxidative cleavage of the diketone to cis-1,3-indandicarboxylic acid, followed by closure to the corresponding amhydride, conversion to the imide, and lithium aluminum hydride reduction, gave 4. Compound 4 and its N-derivatives show no analgesic activity in the mouse hot-plate assay and little antagonist activity in a tail-flick assay.", "PMID": 430484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_462", "title": "Resolution and absolute configuration of trans-2-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)cyclopropylamine, a potent hallucinogen analogue.", "content": "An hallucinogen analogue, trans-2-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)cyclopropylamine (DMCPA), was resolved into ints two enantiomers by fractional crystallization of salts with d- or l-O,O-dibenzoyltartaric acid. A comparison of the ORD and CD curves of the N-5-bromosalicylidene derivatives of trans-2-phenylcyclopropylamine of known absolute configuration and of the title compound established the stereochemistry of the latter to be (1R,2S)-(-) and (1s,2r)-(+). We have earlier shown that the (-) isomer shows selective behavioral effects in cats and mice. In present study it was found that the (-) isomer selectively elicits rabbit hyperthermia when compared with the (+) isomer. In view of the stereoselective ability of the (-) isomer to elicit hallucinogen-like behavioral profiles in these animal models, the proof of absolute configuration lends further support to a new model which interrelates the active binding, conformation of phenethylamine hallucinogens to that of serotonin and tryptamines.", "contents": "Resolution and absolute configuration of trans-2-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)cyclopropylamine, a potent hallucinogen analogue. An hallucinogen analogue, trans-2-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)cyclopropylamine (DMCPA), was resolved into ints two enantiomers by fractional crystallization of salts with d- or l-O,O-dibenzoyltartaric acid. A comparison of the ORD and CD curves of the N-5-bromosalicylidene derivatives of trans-2-phenylcyclopropylamine of known absolute configuration and of the title compound established the stereochemistry of the latter to be (1R,2S)-(-) and (1s,2r)-(+). We have earlier shown that the (-) isomer shows selective behavioral effects in cats and mice. In present study it was found that the (-) isomer selectively elicits rabbit hyperthermia when compared with the (+) isomer. In view of the stereoselective ability of the (-) isomer to elicit hallucinogen-like behavioral profiles in these animal models, the proof of absolute configuration lends further support to a new model which interrelates the active binding, conformation of phenethylamine hallucinogens to that of serotonin and tryptamines.", "PMID": 430485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_463", "title": "Simultaneous solubilization of steroid hormones II: androgens and estrogens.", "content": "The simultaneous solubilization of some androgens and estrogens in aqueous polysorbate 40, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, and sodium lauryl sulfate was studied. The solubilizations of estradiol and testosterone were independent of each other in all three association colloids. However, if the estrogen component was ethinyl estradiol, the solubilization was dependent on the addition order. The estrogen precipitates more readily than testosterone in polysorbate 40 and tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, but the opposite is true in sodium lauryl sulfate. The simultaneous solubilizations of methyltestosterone or ethisterone with the estrogens tested were different from those of testosterone. The solubilization behavior of the steroids is discussed, starting with the pseudophase model and different solubilization loci. Results indicated that the free energy change of micellar binding, delta Gb, decreases with increased steroid polarity. The simultaneous solubilization cannot be predicted by delta Gb but may be explained by differences in the solubilization mechanism.", "contents": "Simultaneous solubilization of steroid hormones II: androgens and estrogens. The simultaneous solubilization of some androgens and estrogens in aqueous polysorbate 40, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, and sodium lauryl sulfate was studied. The solubilizations of estradiol and testosterone were independent of each other in all three association colloids. However, if the estrogen component was ethinyl estradiol, the solubilization was dependent on the addition order. The estrogen precipitates more readily than testosterone in polysorbate 40 and tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, but the opposite is true in sodium lauryl sulfate. The simultaneous solubilizations of methyltestosterone or ethisterone with the estrogens tested were different from those of testosterone. The solubilization behavior of the steroids is discussed, starting with the pseudophase model and different solubilization loci. Results indicated that the free energy change of micellar binding, delta Gb, decreases with increased steroid polarity. The simultaneous solubilization cannot be predicted by delta Gb but may be explained by differences in the solubilization mechanism.", "PMID": 430487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_464", "title": "Dynamic dialysis in drug-erythrocyte interactions.", "content": "Application of dynamic dialysis to drug binding to erythrocytes was found to be more complex than previously described. Drug molecules located intracellularly in erythrocytes must diffuse through erythrocytes membranes before diffusing through the dialysis membrane to the external sink in dynamic dialysis. One must consider drug within the dialysis sack and within the erythrocyte and their corresponding volumes. When binding occurs in these internal compartments, different equations result for computing Dt, the total drug within the dialysis bag. With these equations and theoretically generated data, the results of \"double dialysis\" on the data produced in dynamic dialysis studies of drug-erythrocyte interactions were examined. The intracellular binding of drug by the erythrocyte to a single class of preexisting noninteracting sites could be misinterpreted as cooperative binding, or binding to at least two classes of sites, when the data of dynamic dialysis are treated in the Scatchard format.", "contents": "Dynamic dialysis in drug-erythrocyte interactions. Application of dynamic dialysis to drug binding to erythrocytes was found to be more complex than previously described. Drug molecules located intracellularly in erythrocytes must diffuse through erythrocytes membranes before diffusing through the dialysis membrane to the external sink in dynamic dialysis. One must consider drug within the dialysis sack and within the erythrocyte and their corresponding volumes. When binding occurs in these internal compartments, different equations result for computing Dt, the total drug within the dialysis bag. With these equations and theoretically generated data, the results of \"double dialysis\" on the data produced in dynamic dialysis studies of drug-erythrocyte interactions were examined. The intracellular binding of drug by the erythrocyte to a single class of preexisting noninteracting sites could be misinterpreted as cooperative binding, or binding to at least two classes of sites, when the data of dynamic dialysis are treated in the Scatchard format.", "PMID": 430488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_465", "title": "Simple and specific electron-capture GLC assay for plasma and urine ephedrine concentrations following single doses.", "content": "An electron-capture GLC procedure for determination of plasma ephedrine concentrations is described. The procedure is capable of determining 2 ng/ml of ephedrine and is adequate for following profiles after 25-mg single doses. Pentane extraction of the drug and the internal standard and formation of the N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivatives were followed by GLC. Plasma ephedrine concentrations following a 24-mg dose of ephedrine hydrochloride to a human volunteer are presented. Formation of N-trifluoroacetyl, N-pentafluoropropionyl, N-heptafluorobutryl, and N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivatives and their GLC-mass spectrometric identification are discussed together with comparative electron-capture sensitivities of these derivatives toward a nickel-63 detector. The detection of the N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivative of ephedrine is at least 100-fold greater in sensitivity than detection of the N-trifluoroacetyl derivative.", "contents": "Simple and specific electron-capture GLC assay for plasma and urine ephedrine concentrations following single doses. An electron-capture GLC procedure for determination of plasma ephedrine concentrations is described. The procedure is capable of determining 2 ng/ml of ephedrine and is adequate for following profiles after 25-mg single doses. Pentane extraction of the drug and the internal standard and formation of the N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivatives were followed by GLC. Plasma ephedrine concentrations following a 24-mg dose of ephedrine hydrochloride to a human volunteer are presented. Formation of N-trifluoroacetyl, N-pentafluoropropionyl, N-heptafluorobutryl, and N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivatives and their GLC-mass spectrometric identification are discussed together with comparative electron-capture sensitivities of these derivatives toward a nickel-63 detector. The detection of the N-pentafluorobenzoyl derivative of ephedrine is at least 100-fold greater in sensitivity than detection of the N-trifluoroacetyl derivative.", "PMID": 430489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_466", "title": "Fusion of disubstituted benzenes.", "content": "The entropy of fusion of 84 disubstituted benzenes was essentially constant and independent of the participation of the compounds in intramolecular or intermolecular hydrogen bonding. It was also independent of the shapes, sizes, and dipole moments of the rigid molecules studied. While the entropy of fusion was independent of these parameters, the melting point and the heat of fusion showed a direct dependence on molecular properties.", "contents": "Fusion of disubstituted benzenes. The entropy of fusion of 84 disubstituted benzenes was essentially constant and independent of the participation of the compounds in intramolecular or intermolecular hydrogen bonding. It was also independent of the shapes, sizes, and dipole moments of the rigid molecules studied. While the entropy of fusion was independent of these parameters, the melting point and the heat of fusion showed a direct dependence on molecular properties.", "PMID": 430490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_467", "title": "Use of nitrogen-specific detector for GLC determination of plasma bucainide.", "content": "A sensitive and specific GLC determination of plasma bucainide was developed using a nitrogen-specific detector. The method permits the determination of bucainide as low as 5.0 ng/ml of plasma and provides sufficient sensitivity and reproducibility for clinical use.", "contents": "Use of nitrogen-specific detector for GLC determination of plasma bucainide. A sensitive and specific GLC determination of plasma bucainide was developed using a nitrogen-specific detector. The method permits the determination of bucainide as low as 5.0 ng/ml of plasma and provides sufficient sensitivity and reproducibility for clinical use.", "PMID": 430491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_468", "title": "Rotating-disk method for determining cutaneous metabolism.", "content": "Since design and evaluation of topical dosage forms should account for both skin permeation and cutaneous metabolism, an in vitro system was formulated to determine the metabolic component of viable guinea pig skin utilizing the diffusion layer property of the rotating disk. The drug investigated was vidarabine, an antiviral agent, which was rapidly metabolized to 9-beta-D-arabinofuranosylhypoxanthine. The aqueous diffusion coefficient of the drug was determined by the capillary cell method. The rotating-disk system was standardized using benzoic acid. The dorsal skin of a guinea pig was removed after shaving, and the epidermal section was excised by a keratome. After the section was mounted on the stainless steel disk with a tissue adhesive, the preparation was immersed in a 10-ml beaker containing 5 ml of drug solution at 37 degrees. At suitable intervals, samples were withdrawn, separated by TLC, and assayed by liquid scintillation. The enzyme rate constant was 1.54 x 10(-1) sec-1.", "contents": "Rotating-disk method for determining cutaneous metabolism. Since design and evaluation of topical dosage forms should account for both skin permeation and cutaneous metabolism, an in vitro system was formulated to determine the metabolic component of viable guinea pig skin utilizing the diffusion layer property of the rotating disk. The drug investigated was vidarabine, an antiviral agent, which was rapidly metabolized to 9-beta-D-arabinofuranosylhypoxanthine. The aqueous diffusion coefficient of the drug was determined by the capillary cell method. The rotating-disk system was standardized using benzoic acid. The dorsal skin of a guinea pig was removed after shaving, and the epidermal section was excised by a keratome. After the section was mounted on the stainless steel disk with a tissue adhesive, the preparation was immersed in a 10-ml beaker containing 5 ml of drug solution at 37 degrees. At suitable intervals, samples were withdrawn, separated by TLC, and assayed by liquid scintillation. The enzyme rate constant was 1.54 x 10(-1) sec-1.", "PMID": 430492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_469", "title": "GLC assay of verapamil in plasma: identification of fluorescent metabolites after oral drug administration.", "content": "The fluorometric assay for verapamil in plasma is not useful after oral drug administration because of interference by inactive, but fluorescent, metabolites extracted along with the parent drug. A GLC method using a flame-ionization detector after silylation allows the separation of unchanged active verapamil from the metabolites and quantitation to a sensitivity of 0.025 microgram/ml. After a single oral dose of drug in dogs, up to 80% of \"fluorescent verapamil\" represented inactive metabolites.", "contents": "GLC assay of verapamil in plasma: identification of fluorescent metabolites after oral drug administration. The fluorometric assay for verapamil in plasma is not useful after oral drug administration because of interference by inactive, but fluorescent, metabolites extracted along with the parent drug. A GLC method using a flame-ionization detector after silylation allows the separation of unchanged active verapamil from the metabolites and quantitation to a sensitivity of 0.025 microgram/ml. After a single oral dose of drug in dogs, up to 80% of \"fluorescent verapamil\" represented inactive metabolites.", "PMID": 430493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_470", "title": "Stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, and their respective sulfonamide degradates.", "content": "A quantitative high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, and their respective hydrolysis products, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide and p-toluenesulfonamide, in solid dosage forms was developed. The method is stability indicating and can be used to determine the sulfonamide hydrolysis product and the intact drug in the presence of minor degradates. Method reproducibility, demonstrated by repeated injections of a calibration standard, was 1.21%. The lower limit of quantitation of the hydrolysis products, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide and p-toluenesulfonamide, was 0.2 microgram/5-microliter injection. The accuracy of the method for intact drugs was determined by comparison of the HPLC results to those obtained by the appropriate USP or BP assays. The mean of the results obtained by the two methods differed by 0.7% for chlorpropamide and 0.3% for tolbutamide. Pure drug samples were spiked with amounts of the hydrolysis products ranging from 20 to 120% of the intact content. The mean percent recovery for p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide was 98.6%; for p-toluenesulfonamide, it was 100.6%. A qualitative TLC procedure for the detection of chlorpropamide, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide, dipropylurea, propylurea, n-propylamine, tolbutamide, p-toluenesulfonamide, dibutylurea, butylurea, and n-butylamine is also described.", "contents": "Stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, and their respective sulfonamide degradates. A quantitative high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, and their respective hydrolysis products, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide and p-toluenesulfonamide, in solid dosage forms was developed. The method is stability indicating and can be used to determine the sulfonamide hydrolysis product and the intact drug in the presence of minor degradates. Method reproducibility, demonstrated by repeated injections of a calibration standard, was 1.21%. The lower limit of quantitation of the hydrolysis products, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide and p-toluenesulfonamide, was 0.2 microgram/5-microliter injection. The accuracy of the method for intact drugs was determined by comparison of the HPLC results to those obtained by the appropriate USP or BP assays. The mean of the results obtained by the two methods differed by 0.7% for chlorpropamide and 0.3% for tolbutamide. Pure drug samples were spiked with amounts of the hydrolysis products ranging from 20 to 120% of the intact content. The mean percent recovery for p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide was 98.6%; for p-toluenesulfonamide, it was 100.6%. A qualitative TLC procedure for the detection of chlorpropamide, p-chlorobenzenesulfonamide, dipropylurea, propylurea, n-propylamine, tolbutamide, p-toluenesulfonamide, dibutylurea, butylurea, and n-butylamine is also described.", "PMID": 430494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_471", "title": "Enthalpy of bile salt-lecithin mixed micelle formation.", "content": "The enthalpies for the dissolution of lecithin by sodium salts of cholic, deoxycholic, and chenodeoxycholic acids and their glycine and taurine conjugates are reported. Exothermic enthalpies were found in each case. It is suggested that heat evolution is due to a bile salt-lecithin interaction other than hydrophobic interactions. These results provide strong support for the \"mixed disk\" model for the complex lecithin-bile salt micelle, which requires that a substantial fraction of the bile salt molecules be incorporated within a lecithin bilayer where hydrogenbonded pair formation can occur. Calorimetric studies of the interaction between sodium cholate and nonionic, cationic, and anionic detergents yielded exothermic heats. These results suggest that these bile salt molecules partition into the detergent micelle interior as hydrogenbonded pairs.", "contents": "Enthalpy of bile salt-lecithin mixed micelle formation. The enthalpies for the dissolution of lecithin by sodium salts of cholic, deoxycholic, and chenodeoxycholic acids and their glycine and taurine conjugates are reported. Exothermic enthalpies were found in each case. It is suggested that heat evolution is due to a bile salt-lecithin interaction other than hydrophobic interactions. These results provide strong support for the \"mixed disk\" model for the complex lecithin-bile salt micelle, which requires that a substantial fraction of the bile salt molecules be incorporated within a lecithin bilayer where hydrogenbonded pair formation can occur. Calorimetric studies of the interaction between sodium cholate and nonionic, cationic, and anionic detergents yielded exothermic heats. These results suggest that these bile salt molecules partition into the detergent micelle interior as hydrogenbonded pairs.", "PMID": 430495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_472", "title": "Heterocyclic analogs of amphetamine: Thioureas, dithiocarbamates, and negatively substituted amides.", "content": "A series of heterocyclic analogs of amphetamine was synthesized. The heterocycles employed included the 2-furyl, 2-thienyl, 3-methyl-2-thienyl, 3-pyridyl, and 6-methyl-2-pyridyl rings. The aliphatic amine group was converted to the N-methylthiourea, dithiocarbamate, methanesulfonyl, trifluoromethanesulfonyl, and trifluoracetyl functions since similar conversions of the beta-phenethylamine structure had shown blood pressure-lowering effects and some loss of behavioral effects. p-Chlorophenyl and 1-naphthyl analogs were also converted to these derivatives. Behavioral and other biological effects, including antiarthritic, passive cutaneous anaphylactic, and antimicrobial, were observed. The 3-methyl-2-thienyl analog of amphetamine significantly increased papillary muscle contractile force without producing arhythmias.", "contents": "Heterocyclic analogs of amphetamine: Thioureas, dithiocarbamates, and negatively substituted amides. A series of heterocyclic analogs of amphetamine was synthesized. The heterocycles employed included the 2-furyl, 2-thienyl, 3-methyl-2-thienyl, 3-pyridyl, and 6-methyl-2-pyridyl rings. The aliphatic amine group was converted to the N-methylthiourea, dithiocarbamate, methanesulfonyl, trifluoromethanesulfonyl, and trifluoracetyl functions since similar conversions of the beta-phenethylamine structure had shown blood pressure-lowering effects and some loss of behavioral effects. p-Chlorophenyl and 1-naphthyl analogs were also converted to these derivatives. Behavioral and other biological effects, including antiarthritic, passive cutaneous anaphylactic, and antimicrobial, were observed. The 3-methyl-2-thienyl analog of amphetamine significantly increased papillary muscle contractile force without producing arhythmias.", "PMID": 430496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_473", "title": "Percutaneous absorption of butylparaben through guinea pig skin in vitro.", "content": "Percutaneous absorption of aqueous butylparaben through guinea pig dorsal skin was studied using a diffusion chamber. Polysorbate 80 increased the solubilized concentration but decreased penetration of the preservative. Polyethylene glycol 400 also reduced the amount of penetration. Propylene glycol was less effective than polyethylene glycol 400. Preservative activities of these systems on several microorganisms were evaluated on agar plates. The relationship between the butylparaben penetration and preservative activity is discussed.", "contents": "Percutaneous absorption of butylparaben through guinea pig skin in vitro. Percutaneous absorption of aqueous butylparaben through guinea pig dorsal skin was studied using a diffusion chamber. Polysorbate 80 increased the solubilized concentration but decreased penetration of the preservative. Polyethylene glycol 400 also reduced the amount of penetration. Propylene glycol was less effective than polyethylene glycol 400. Preservative activities of these systems on several microorganisms were evaluated on agar plates. The relationship between the butylparaben penetration and preservative activity is discussed.", "PMID": 430497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_474", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the antiprotozoal agent, tinidazole, in human plasma.", "content": "A rapid and specific high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for the quantitative determination of tinidazole in human plasma is described. After a simple extraction procedure, the compound is analyzed by HPLC using a reversed-phase column and a UV detector. Quantitation is accomplished using an external standard, and peak areas are determined with an integrating computer. The average recovery of tinidazole over a concentration range of 0.20-20.0 microgram/ml was 86.9 +/- 2.8% SD. The maximum sensitivity of the assay is approximately 0.10 microgram/ml; it is suitable for use in pharmacokinetic studies following administration of therapeutic levels of tinidazole to humans.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the antiprotozoal agent, tinidazole, in human plasma. A rapid and specific high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for the quantitative determination of tinidazole in human plasma is described. After a simple extraction procedure, the compound is analyzed by HPLC using a reversed-phase column and a UV detector. Quantitation is accomplished using an external standard, and peak areas are determined with an integrating computer. The average recovery of tinidazole over a concentration range of 0.20-20.0 microgram/ml was 86.9 +/- 2.8% SD. The maximum sensitivity of the assay is approximately 0.10 microgram/ml; it is suitable for use in pharmacokinetic studies following administration of therapeutic levels of tinidazole to humans.", "PMID": 430498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_475", "title": "Thermal characterization of citric acid solid dispersions with benzoic acid and phenobarbital.", "content": "The glass transition temperatures of citric temperatures of citric acid glass were determined by differential scanning calorimetry to be 10.2 and 13.5 degrees for in situ and bulk-prepared samples, respectively. Mechanical stress on citric acid glass induced foci for crystallization. Benzoic acid addition to citric acid glass decreased its glass transition temperature while phenobarbital addition increased its glass transition temperature, the latter forming a glass solution.", "contents": "Thermal characterization of citric acid solid dispersions with benzoic acid and phenobarbital. The glass transition temperatures of citric temperatures of citric acid glass were determined by differential scanning calorimetry to be 10.2 and 13.5 degrees for in situ and bulk-prepared samples, respectively. Mechanical stress on citric acid glass induced foci for crystallization. Benzoic acid addition to citric acid glass decreased its glass transition temperature while phenobarbital addition increased its glass transition temperature, the latter forming a glass solution.", "PMID": 430499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_476", "title": "Paired-ion reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatographic assay of pentobarbital-pyrilamine suppositories.", "content": "The assay of suppositories containing pentobarbital and/or pyrilamine in a water-soluble polyethylene glycol base by high-pressure liquid chromatography is described. No extraction is required. The suppository is dissolved in the mobile phase. This solution is diluted with an internal standard stock solution containing phenobarbital. Chromatographic conditions include a C18 bonded microporous silica column and a mobile phase of 65% 4 x 10(-3) M n-butyl sodium sulfonate in 1% acetic acid and 35% acetonitrile. The procedure using commercial products gave results comparable to those obtained by GLC.", "contents": "Paired-ion reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatographic assay of pentobarbital-pyrilamine suppositories. The assay of suppositories containing pentobarbital and/or pyrilamine in a water-soluble polyethylene glycol base by high-pressure liquid chromatography is described. No extraction is required. The suppository is dissolved in the mobile phase. This solution is diluted with an internal standard stock solution containing phenobarbital. Chromatographic conditions include a C18 bonded microporous silica column and a mobile phase of 65% 4 x 10(-3) M n-butyl sodium sulfonate in 1% acetic acid and 35% acetonitrile. The procedure using commercial products gave results comparable to those obtained by GLC.", "PMID": 430500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_477", "title": "Chemical reactions in cephalosporin allergy: high-pressure liquid chromatographic analysis of cephalosporin aminolysis kinetics.", "content": "Cephalosporin reaction with protein amino groups is fundamental to cephalosporin allergy. Cephalothin and cefazolin reaction kinetics with epsilon-aminocaproic acid, B-alanine, and glycine in aqueous solution were investigated. All reactions were conducted at 35 degrees and 0.5 ionic strength and were followed by ion-exchange high-pressure liquid chromatography. The aminolysis rate constants can be expressed as terms representing uncatlyzed or water-catalyzed amine reaction, self-assited nucleophilic reaction, and hydroxide-ion-catalayzed nucleophilic amine attack on the beta-lactam moiety. Cephalothin and cefazolin react with amines as readily as penicillin G. The UV spectra of several cephalothin-glycine reaction products were recorded, and their possible structures are discussed.", "contents": "Chemical reactions in cephalosporin allergy: high-pressure liquid chromatographic analysis of cephalosporin aminolysis kinetics. Cephalosporin reaction with protein amino groups is fundamental to cephalosporin allergy. Cephalothin and cefazolin reaction kinetics with epsilon-aminocaproic acid, B-alanine, and glycine in aqueous solution were investigated. All reactions were conducted at 35 degrees and 0.5 ionic strength and were followed by ion-exchange high-pressure liquid chromatography. The aminolysis rate constants can be expressed as terms representing uncatlyzed or water-catalyzed amine reaction, self-assited nucleophilic reaction, and hydroxide-ion-catalayzed nucleophilic amine attack on the beta-lactam moiety. Cephalothin and cefazolin react with amines as readily as penicillin G. The UV spectra of several cephalothin-glycine reaction products were recorded, and their possible structures are discussed.", "PMID": 430501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_478", "title": "Hydrocortisone stability in human feces.", "content": "Hydrocortisone stability in human feces was studied under various conditions to determine whether stability accounts for the variable effects of hydrocortisone enemas. Recovery from feces and assay specificity were assured using dual isotopes, TLC separation, and liquid scintillation counting. Hydrocortisone degraded slightly from 7 to 26% in 24 hr when incubated in fresh human feces at 37 degrees. Less than 7% degradation occurred in feces stored at 10 degrees, and negligible degradation occurred with hydrocortisone in water at 37 degrees. Fecal bacteria may account for the observed degradation. Hydrocortisone stability in feces may contribute to local persistence and may account partly for its efficacy in ulcerative colitis treatment.", "contents": "Hydrocortisone stability in human feces. Hydrocortisone stability in human feces was studied under various conditions to determine whether stability accounts for the variable effects of hydrocortisone enemas. Recovery from feces and assay specificity were assured using dual isotopes, TLC separation, and liquid scintillation counting. Hydrocortisone degraded slightly from 7 to 26% in 24 hr when incubated in fresh human feces at 37 degrees. Less than 7% degradation occurred in feces stored at 10 degrees, and negligible degradation occurred with hydrocortisone in water at 37 degrees. Fecal bacteria may account for the observed degradation. Hydrocortisone stability in feces may contribute to local persistence and may account partly for its efficacy in ulcerative colitis treatment.", "PMID": 430502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_479", "title": "Plasma pentazocine radioimmunoassay.", "content": "A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay of dog and human plasma pentazocine is described. Rabbit antiserum and the second antibody method separated bound from free pentazocine. The radioimmunoassay employed an 125I-labeled radioligand and required extraction from the sample prior to quantitation. The method had a detection limit of approximately 200 pg/assay tube (1 ng/ml). The assay was used successfully to measure pentazocine in the plasma of beagle hounds given 0.3 mg of pentazocine/kg iv. The decline in plasma levels fitted a two-compartment body model with a 100-min mean overall half-life and a 3.2-liters/hr mean plasma clearance rate.", "contents": "Plasma pentazocine radioimmunoassay. A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay of dog and human plasma pentazocine is described. Rabbit antiserum and the second antibody method separated bound from free pentazocine. The radioimmunoassay employed an 125I-labeled radioligand and required extraction from the sample prior to quantitation. The method had a detection limit of approximately 200 pg/assay tube (1 ng/ml). The assay was used successfully to measure pentazocine in the plasma of beagle hounds given 0.3 mg of pentazocine/kg iv. The decline in plasma levels fitted a two-compartment body model with a 100-min mean overall half-life and a 3.2-liters/hr mean plasma clearance rate.", "PMID": 430503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_480", "title": "Drug entrapment for controlled release in radiation-polymerized beads.", "content": "The preparation of beads including polymer, vinyl monomer, and drug was carried out by low temperature, radiation-induced polymerization. Complete spherical particles were obtained when ethanol was the precipitation medium Polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate and polystyrene were dissolved in various glass-forming monomers, and the drug was dispersed in the mixture. The mixture was dropped into cold precipitation media. The formed monomeric particle was irradiated at low temperatures to produce polymerization. The drug release profiles from polymerized particles were changed by varying the glass-forming monomer and the precipitation medium.", "contents": "Drug entrapment for controlled release in radiation-polymerized beads. The preparation of beads including polymer, vinyl monomer, and drug was carried out by low temperature, radiation-induced polymerization. Complete spherical particles were obtained when ethanol was the precipitation medium Polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate and polystyrene were dissolved in various glass-forming monomers, and the drug was dispersed in the mixture. The mixture was dropped into cold precipitation media. The formed monomeric particle was irradiated at low temperatures to produce polymerization. The drug release profiles from polymerized particles were changed by varying the glass-forming monomer and the precipitation medium.", "PMID": 430504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_481", "title": "UV studies of nucleic acid vase complexation with isoproterenol in different solvents.", "content": "Charge transfer complex formation between nucleic acid bases and isoproterenol was demonstrated from UV absorption measurements. The solvent polarity effects on equilibrium constants were investigated. The solvent systems containing 0.1 N HCl were 20% aqueous ethanol, water, and water containing sodium chloride. The equilibrium constants, calculated from UV absorption data by the application of the Benesi-Hildebrand equation, were small and increased with increasing ionic strength. Equilibrium constant wavelength dependence was demonstrated in some cases.", "contents": "UV studies of nucleic acid vase complexation with isoproterenol in different solvents. Charge transfer complex formation between nucleic acid bases and isoproterenol was demonstrated from UV absorption measurements. The solvent polarity effects on equilibrium constants were investigated. The solvent systems containing 0.1 N HCl were 20% aqueous ethanol, water, and water containing sodium chloride. The equilibrium constants, calculated from UV absorption data by the application of the Benesi-Hildebrand equation, were small and increased with increasing ionic strength. Equilibrium constant wavelength dependence was demonstrated in some cases.", "PMID": 430505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_482", "title": "In vitro and in vivo availability of hydrophilized phenytoin from capsules.", "content": "The effect of phenytoin hydrophilization on the liquid penetration rate into prepared plugs, on the disintegration time, on the in vitro release rate, and on in vivo absorption in humans was studied. Hydrophilization was performed by intensive mixing of the hydrophobic drug with a small amount of methylcellulose solution. Liquid penetration into the treated plugs was independent of the liquid wetting potency and extremely high compared to the pure drug plugs. Analogous results were obtained for the disintegration time and in vitro release rates from capsules loaded with pure and treated drug. A bioavailability study in seven healthy volunteers showed immediate absorption of the treated drug but a 1-hr absorption lag time for the pure drug.", "contents": "In vitro and in vivo availability of hydrophilized phenytoin from capsules. The effect of phenytoin hydrophilization on the liquid penetration rate into prepared plugs, on the disintegration time, on the in vitro release rate, and on in vivo absorption in humans was studied. Hydrophilization was performed by intensive mixing of the hydrophobic drug with a small amount of methylcellulose solution. Liquid penetration into the treated plugs was independent of the liquid wetting potency and extremely high compared to the pure drug plugs. Analogous results were obtained for the disintegration time and in vitro release rates from capsules loaded with pure and treated drug. A bioavailability study in seven healthy volunteers showed immediate absorption of the treated drug but a 1-hr absorption lag time for the pure drug.", "PMID": 430506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_483", "title": "Oxybutynin influence on autonomic measures in dogs.", "content": "In the conscious dog, the most apparent oxybutynin effect was a dose-related tachycardia. Associated with this heart rate increase were a very slight, sometimes significant, elevation in diastolic pressure and an insignificant increase in systolic pressure. Under pentobarbital anesthesia, the systolic/diastolic arterial pressure oxybutynin responses were reversed and showed a dose-related systolic and diastolic hypotension. However, the tachycardic response to oxybutynin still appeared. The arterial pressure and heart rate responses produced by the autonomic agents were altered by the oxybutynin treatment in a pattern indicative of an anticholinergic mechanism of action. Differences in many response profiles were observed with either conscious or anesthetized dogs, but the statistically significant inhibition of the acetylcholine-induced systolic and diastolic arterial pressure and bradycardic responses were constant in both conditions. Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic agent with mild to moderate cardiovascular activity.", "contents": "Oxybutynin influence on autonomic measures in dogs. In the conscious dog, the most apparent oxybutynin effect was a dose-related tachycardia. Associated with this heart rate increase were a very slight, sometimes significant, elevation in diastolic pressure and an insignificant increase in systolic pressure. Under pentobarbital anesthesia, the systolic/diastolic arterial pressure oxybutynin responses were reversed and showed a dose-related systolic and diastolic hypotension. However, the tachycardic response to oxybutynin still appeared. The arterial pressure and heart rate responses produced by the autonomic agents were altered by the oxybutynin treatment in a pattern indicative of an anticholinergic mechanism of action. Differences in many response profiles were observed with either conscious or anesthetized dogs, but the statistically significant inhibition of the acetylcholine-induced systolic and diastolic arterial pressure and bradycardic responses were constant in both conditions. Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic agent with mild to moderate cardiovascular activity.", "PMID": 430507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_484", "title": "Amino acid effect on aspirin stability in propylene glycol.", "content": "Temperature stability studies were conducted on 0.36 M (6.5% W/V) aspirin solutions including either 0.02 M L-methionine or 0.02 M histidine in propylene glycol. Aspirin was determined spectrophoto-fluorometrically as salicylic acid content at 412 nm. A 0.36 M aspirin in polyethylene glycol 400 solution was studied concurrently. Aspirin degradation rate constants, k, obtained from semilogarithmic plots of percent drug remaining versus time at 30-70 +/- 0.5 degrees were used for preparing Arrhenius plots. Good correlation was seen between predicted aspirin stability and experimental k25 degrees values. L-Methionine and histidine markedly reduced aspirin stability.", "contents": "Amino acid effect on aspirin stability in propylene glycol. Temperature stability studies were conducted on 0.36 M (6.5% W/V) aspirin solutions including either 0.02 M L-methionine or 0.02 M histidine in propylene glycol. Aspirin was determined spectrophoto-fluorometrically as salicylic acid content at 412 nm. A 0.36 M aspirin in polyethylene glycol 400 solution was studied concurrently. Aspirin degradation rate constants, k, obtained from semilogarithmic plots of percent drug remaining versus time at 30-70 +/- 0.5 degrees were used for preparing Arrhenius plots. Good correlation was seen between predicted aspirin stability and experimental k25 degrees values. L-Methionine and histidine markedly reduced aspirin stability.", "PMID": 430508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_485", "title": "Radiochemical plasma salicylamide assay using ring-labeled tritiated salicylamide.", "content": "A rat plasma salicylamide assay was developed using ring-labeled tritiated salicylamide, synthesized by reacting salicylamide with tritium oxide in the presence of heptafluorobutyric acid. The reaction yielded 3H-salicylamide of specific activity up to 8.41 mCi/mmole, 60% yield. Plasma containing 3H-salicylamide and its metabolites was extracted with a toluene-based scintillation fluid, which was subsequently counted. Specificity for free salicylamide was demonstrated by radio chemical and standard fluorescence plasma salicylamide level-time curves. Specificity resulted from nonextraction of the salicylamide sulfate and glucuronide metabolites. Sulfatase and beta-glucuronidase treatment allowed the analysis of plasma sulfate and glucuronide conjugates as free salicylamide. This procedure should be effective for the analysis of salicylamide and its metabolites in the presence of similar phenolic compounds.", "contents": "Radiochemical plasma salicylamide assay using ring-labeled tritiated salicylamide. A rat plasma salicylamide assay was developed using ring-labeled tritiated salicylamide, synthesized by reacting salicylamide with tritium oxide in the presence of heptafluorobutyric acid. The reaction yielded 3H-salicylamide of specific activity up to 8.41 mCi/mmole, 60% yield. Plasma containing 3H-salicylamide and its metabolites was extracted with a toluene-based scintillation fluid, which was subsequently counted. Specificity for free salicylamide was demonstrated by radio chemical and standard fluorescence plasma salicylamide level-time curves. Specificity resulted from nonextraction of the salicylamide sulfate and glucuronide metabolites. Sulfatase and beta-glucuronidase treatment allowed the analysis of plasma sulfate and glucuronide conjugates as free salicylamide. This procedure should be effective for the analysis of salicylamide and its metabolites in the presence of similar phenolic compounds.", "PMID": 430509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_486", "title": "High steady-state levels of uric acid produced in rats by dietary training and potassium oxonate.", "content": "To reduce the inherent variability in serum uric acid levels of animals allowed ad libitum exposure to food containing potassium oxonate and uric acid, male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to eat their daily food allotment in a 1.25-hr period each morning. After training the rats were fed a food mixture containing 5% potassium oxonate and 2% uric acid (w/w each). Serum blood levels of uric acid reached a steady state within 2 hr; these levels were maintained for an additional 4 hr. It is believed that the stomach emptying rate is a zero-order process under these experimental conditions.", "contents": "High steady-state levels of uric acid produced in rats by dietary training and potassium oxonate. To reduce the inherent variability in serum uric acid levels of animals allowed ad libitum exposure to food containing potassium oxonate and uric acid, male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to eat their daily food allotment in a 1.25-hr period each morning. After training the rats were fed a food mixture containing 5% potassium oxonate and 2% uric acid (w/w each). Serum blood levels of uric acid reached a steady state within 2 hr; these levels were maintained for an additional 4 hr. It is believed that the stomach emptying rate is a zero-order process under these experimental conditions.", "PMID": 430510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_487", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of cephacetrile.", "content": "A rapid and accurate quantitative determination of cephacetrile in finished bulk and dosage forms is reported. The high-performance liquid chromatographic method is free of interference by acetyl hydrolysis products and synthesis by-products. The assay can be performed in about 15 min, affording less than 0.7% coefficients of variation within and between days. The chromatographic results are in good agreement with the microbiological assay requested by the \"Code of Federal Regulations\" for certification of cephacetrile sodium.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of cephacetrile. A rapid and accurate quantitative determination of cephacetrile in finished bulk and dosage forms is reported. The high-performance liquid chromatographic method is free of interference by acetyl hydrolysis products and synthesis by-products. The assay can be performed in about 15 min, affording less than 0.7% coefficients of variation within and between days. The chromatographic results are in good agreement with the microbiological assay requested by the \"Code of Federal Regulations\" for certification of cephacetrile sodium.", "PMID": 430511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_488", "title": "Preparation of semisynthetic (+)-tubocurarine chloride.", "content": "Semisynthetic (+)-tubocurarine chloride (II) was prepared by monoquaternization of (+)-tubocurine. The method involved treating (+)-tubocurine with a 0.5 M equivalent of hydrochloric acid prior to quaternization with methyl iodide, followed by neutralization and iodide-chloride ion-exchange. Column chromatography and crystallization procedures were utilized for pure semisynthetic II preparation. The neuromuscular junction blocking activities of the semisynthetic and commercial II were determined by the in vivo cat hypoglossal nerve-tongue muscle preparation. No delectable differences among physical constants, spectral data, and neuromuscular junction blocking activities were noted between the commercial product and the semisynthetic II. This result substantiates the chemical and biological data for the well-accepted new formula for II. The unexplained M + n14 mass spectral peaks shown by the curare-type bases are characteristic of the molecular species rather than a result of contaminants.", "contents": "Preparation of semisynthetic (+)-tubocurarine chloride. Semisynthetic (+)-tubocurarine chloride (II) was prepared by monoquaternization of (+)-tubocurine. The method involved treating (+)-tubocurine with a 0.5 M equivalent of hydrochloric acid prior to quaternization with methyl iodide, followed by neutralization and iodide-chloride ion-exchange. Column chromatography and crystallization procedures were utilized for pure semisynthetic II preparation. The neuromuscular junction blocking activities of the semisynthetic and commercial II were determined by the in vivo cat hypoglossal nerve-tongue muscle preparation. No delectable differences among physical constants, spectral data, and neuromuscular junction blocking activities were noted between the commercial product and the semisynthetic II. This result substantiates the chemical and biological data for the well-accepted new formula for II. The unexplained M + n14 mass spectral peaks shown by the curare-type bases are characteristic of the molecular species rather than a result of contaminants.", "PMID": 430512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_489", "title": "Simultaneous determination of isosorbide dinitrate and its mononitrates in human plasma by capillary column GLC.", "content": "A previously described electron-capture GLC method for determination of isosorbide dinitrate in human plasma was adapted for the simultaneous determination of isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide 2-mononitrate, and isosorbide 5-mononitrate using a capillary column. Quantitation was done with two internal standards. The lower limits of detection were approximately 0.5 ng/ml of plasma for isosorbide dinitrate, 2 ng/ml for isosorbide 2-mononitrate, and 20 ng/ml for isosorbide 5-mononitrate.", "contents": "Simultaneous determination of isosorbide dinitrate and its mononitrates in human plasma by capillary column GLC. A previously described electron-capture GLC method for determination of isosorbide dinitrate in human plasma was adapted for the simultaneous determination of isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide 2-mononitrate, and isosorbide 5-mononitrate using a capillary column. Quantitation was done with two internal standards. The lower limits of detection were approximately 0.5 ng/ml of plasma for isosorbide dinitrate, 2 ng/ml for isosorbide 2-mononitrate, and 20 ng/ml for isosorbide 5-mononitrate.", "PMID": 430513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_490", "title": "Improved method for morphine extraction from biological samples.", "content": "Methadone morphine, or naloxone extraction from brain homogenates, plasma, and urine is described. An aqueous sample was loaded on a surgical gauze support, which was washed with extracting solvents. Aqueous samples remained on the support, and nonpolar drugs partitioned into the lipophilic extracting solvent. The procedure recovered 80-100% of nanogram levels of methadone, morphine, or naloxone from biological samples. In addition, an approximate 10-fold timesaving capacity was demonstrated compared to standard liquid-liquid extraction techniques.", "contents": "Improved method for morphine extraction from biological samples. Methadone morphine, or naloxone extraction from brain homogenates, plasma, and urine is described. An aqueous sample was loaded on a surgical gauze support, which was washed with extracting solvents. Aqueous samples remained on the support, and nonpolar drugs partitioned into the lipophilic extracting solvent. The procedure recovered 80-100% of nanogram levels of methadone, morphine, or naloxone from biological samples. In addition, an approximate 10-fold timesaving capacity was demonstrated compared to standard liquid-liquid extraction techniques.", "PMID": 430514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_491", "title": "Effect of water-soluble carriers on morphine sulfate release from a silicone polymer.", "content": "The influence of gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate, lactose, and sodium alginate on morphine sulfate diffusion from cylindrical silicone polymer pellets was examined in isotonic pH 7.4 phosphate buffer. These water-soluble carriers caused the pellets to swell in aqueous media. Sodium alginate exerted the greatest influence on drug release. The morphine sulfate diffusion rate from the cylindrical pellets increased as the matrix alginate content increased up to 20%. Water-soluble carrier incorporation into silicone polymeric matrixes permits controlled release of water-soluble drugs that otherwise would be released extremely slowly from the polymer. Drug diffusion from the silicone matrix containing sodium alginate followed second-order kinetics. The release mechanism probably involves the creation of pores or pathways through the matrix secondary to the swelling.", "contents": "Effect of water-soluble carriers on morphine sulfate release from a silicone polymer. The influence of gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate, lactose, and sodium alginate on morphine sulfate diffusion from cylindrical silicone polymer pellets was examined in isotonic pH 7.4 phosphate buffer. These water-soluble carriers caused the pellets to swell in aqueous media. Sodium alginate exerted the greatest influence on drug release. The morphine sulfate diffusion rate from the cylindrical pellets increased as the matrix alginate content increased up to 20%. Water-soluble carrier incorporation into silicone polymeric matrixes permits controlled release of water-soluble drugs that otherwise would be released extremely slowly from the polymer. Drug diffusion from the silicone matrix containing sodium alginate followed second-order kinetics. The release mechanism probably involves the creation of pores or pathways through the matrix secondary to the swelling.", "PMID": 430515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_492", "title": "Wikstromol, antitumor lignan from Wikstroemia foetida var. oahuensis Gray and Wikstroemia uva-ursi Gray (Thymelaeaceae).", "content": "The ethanol extracts of Wikstroemia foetida var. oahuensis and Wikstroemia uva-ursi showed antitumor activity against the P-388 lymphocytic leukemia (3PS) test system One PS-active constituent of both plants was the lignan wikstromol. Several inactive compounds were identified as daphnoretin, pinoresinol, and syringaresinol.", "contents": "Wikstromol, antitumor lignan from Wikstroemia foetida var. oahuensis Gray and Wikstroemia uva-ursi Gray (Thymelaeaceae). The ethanol extracts of Wikstroemia foetida var. oahuensis and Wikstroemia uva-ursi showed antitumor activity against the P-388 lymphocytic leukemia (3PS) test system One PS-active constituent of both plants was the lignan wikstromol. Several inactive compounds were identified as daphnoretin, pinoresinol, and syringaresinol.", "PMID": 430516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_493", "title": "Paradoxical traps in therapeutics: some dilemmas in medical ethics.", "content": "The doctor-patient relationship is examined an emphasis on the comparison between professional and moral principles. Many therapeutic measures have opposite-directed alternative steps with an equal degree of justification, so that no logical preference is attainable and conflicts ensue. Thus patients come for relief and are ordered to endure further pain and discomfort; or weaker individuals exaggerate their complaints hypochomdriacally, and thus need a great deal of understanding, yet paradoxically they are prone to receive less support than stronger ones. Further conflicts arise between our devotion to human well-being and dignity, and our obligation to disrespect some of their rights for self-determination. Furthermore, various dutifully performed doctoring activities run counter to our own social needs and interests; last, but not least, human imperfection colours some of our decisions, putting a definite blemish on their value. In conclusion, physicians must bear the constant burden of paradoxically-opposed alternatives, and they confront pitfalls of worongdoing at every therapeutic step. Their only guidelines are intuition and professional dedication.", "contents": "Paradoxical traps in therapeutics: some dilemmas in medical ethics. The doctor-patient relationship is examined an emphasis on the comparison between professional and moral principles. Many therapeutic measures have opposite-directed alternative steps with an equal degree of justification, so that no logical preference is attainable and conflicts ensue. Thus patients come for relief and are ordered to endure further pain and discomfort; or weaker individuals exaggerate their complaints hypochomdriacally, and thus need a great deal of understanding, yet paradoxically they are prone to receive less support than stronger ones. Further conflicts arise between our devotion to human well-being and dignity, and our obligation to disrespect some of their rights for self-determination. Furthermore, various dutifully performed doctoring activities run counter to our own social needs and interests; last, but not least, human imperfection colours some of our decisions, putting a definite blemish on their value. In conclusion, physicians must bear the constant burden of paradoxically-opposed alternatives, and they confront pitfalls of worongdoing at every therapeutic step. Their only guidelines are intuition and professional dedication.", "PMID": 430522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_494", "title": "When consent is unbearable: an alternative case analysis.", "content": "Dr Agich takes up a previous difficult case related by Dr Kottow in an earlier issue of the Journal. He analyses the three ethical problems as presented in the case and offers his own opinion of it as well as his own conclusions with regard to the medical ethical aspects of it. Unlike Dr Kottow, Dr Agich's reading of the case indicates that the application of the principle of informed consent does not rule out ethical decisions for the physician, but emphasizes the relevance of ethical analysis beyond the issue of informed consent.", "contents": "When consent is unbearable: an alternative case analysis. Dr Agich takes up a previous difficult case related by Dr Kottow in an earlier issue of the Journal. He analyses the three ethical problems as presented in the case and offers his own opinion of it as well as his own conclusions with regard to the medical ethical aspects of it. Unlike Dr Kottow, Dr Agich's reading of the case indicates that the application of the principle of informed consent does not rule out ethical decisions for the physician, but emphasizes the relevance of ethical analysis beyond the issue of informed consent.", "PMID": 430523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_495", "title": "Help yourself to good health?", "content": "In recent years more support has been given to the idea of Health Education and there are strong reasons for believing that such schemes of prevention may receive much more financial backing from governments. It is being realised, also, that many of our 'ills' may be attributed to an over-reliance on medical technology. There is reason to believe that in years to come the emphasis will be placed on the fostering of mental health in programmes of Health Education enabling the individual to take a responsible attitude in learning how to seek out health hazards for himself without over-reliance on others.", "contents": "Help yourself to good health? In recent years more support has been given to the idea of Health Education and there are strong reasons for believing that such schemes of prevention may receive much more financial backing from governments. It is being realised, also, that many of our 'ills' may be attributed to an over-reliance on medical technology. There is reason to believe that in years to come the emphasis will be placed on the fostering of mental health in programmes of Health Education enabling the individual to take a responsible attitude in learning how to seek out health hazards for himself without over-reliance on others.", "PMID": 430527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_496", "title": "A follow-up neurobiological study: why volunteer?", "content": "There is usually great concern over the use of psychiatric patients for clinical research, as it raises the ethical and legal issues of human dignity and autonomy. In this paper the authors describe and evaluate a follow-up neurobiological study of patients who had been discharged from a psychiatric research ward at least ten months earlier. It is pointed out that such studies are rare and that the writers were provided with the unique opportunity to examine attitudinal and motivational dimensions involved in the patients' agreement to participate in the study.", "contents": "A follow-up neurobiological study: why volunteer? There is usually great concern over the use of psychiatric patients for clinical research, as it raises the ethical and legal issues of human dignity and autonomy. In this paper the authors describe and evaluate a follow-up neurobiological study of patients who had been discharged from a psychiatric research ward at least ten months earlier. It is pointed out that such studies are rare and that the writers were provided with the unique opportunity to examine attitudinal and motivational dimensions involved in the patients' agreement to participate in the study.", "PMID": 430528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_497", "title": "Regulation, professional responsibility, and market forces in the health care field.", "content": "In this paper, the author first deals briefly with the general interrelationship of market forces, government regulation, and professional responsibility. He then reviews the Federal Trace Commission's ongoing program involving competition in the health care field. Finally, he attempts to cover some prevalent concerns and what he believes are some misconceptions in the medical community about the commission's involvement in the health area.", "contents": "Regulation, professional responsibility, and market forces in the health care field. In this paper, the author first deals briefly with the general interrelationship of market forces, government regulation, and professional responsibility. He then reviews the Federal Trace Commission's ongoing program involving competition in the health care field. Finally, he attempts to cover some prevalent concerns and what he believes are some misconceptions in the medical community about the commission's involvement in the health area.", "PMID": 430529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_498", "title": "Departmental review in medical schools: focus and functions.", "content": "Approximately two-thirds of all U.S. and Canadian medical schools have provisions for the evaluation of their departments on a periodic or ad hoc basis. Most of these institutions have initiated the departmental review process since 1970. It appears that use of the practice is increasing and is becoming an important tool in providing guidance for departmental activities, programs, and leadership. Departmental review may be conducted in a variety of ways with varying levels of intensity, flexibility, and skill, depending on the environment, resources, dean, department chairmen, faculty, and attitudes of university administrators. Departmental review may be employed to identify, elaborate, document, and/or contribute to the resolution of current and potential organizational concerns. When carefully administered, the process can be a stabilizing rather than a disruptive force; however, by itself, it does not solve major institutional problems.", "contents": "Departmental review in medical schools: focus and functions. Approximately two-thirds of all U.S. and Canadian medical schools have provisions for the evaluation of their departments on a periodic or ad hoc basis. Most of these institutions have initiated the departmental review process since 1970. It appears that use of the practice is increasing and is becoming an important tool in providing guidance for departmental activities, programs, and leadership. Departmental review may be conducted in a variety of ways with varying levels of intensity, flexibility, and skill, depending on the environment, resources, dean, department chairmen, faculty, and attitudes of university administrators. Departmental review may be employed to identify, elaborate, document, and/or contribute to the resolution of current and potential organizational concerns. When carefully administered, the process can be a stabilizing rather than a disruptive force; however, by itself, it does not solve major institutional problems.", "PMID": 430530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_499", "title": "The costs of an institutional review board.", "content": "The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is charged with the responsibility of review of all protocols involving human subjects in research. A large medical institution has many clinical protocols requiring review. The review of hundreds of protocols per year requires much time from the IRB staff, the committees which review the protocols, and the investigators who prepare them. This cost is borne by the institution. Additional federal regulations add to the complexity of review and require additional time on the part of all concerned. An attempt has been made to document the costs of operation of the IRB in a single group of institutions. About 850 new or renewal applications are reviewed each year for $100,000 or about $100 per application. This is a sizable financial burden to be placed on the average medical school. Legislation is now proposed to support IRB activities by direct grants from the federal government.", "contents": "The costs of an institutional review board. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is charged with the responsibility of review of all protocols involving human subjects in research. A large medical institution has many clinical protocols requiring review. The review of hundreds of protocols per year requires much time from the IRB staff, the committees which review the protocols, and the investigators who prepare them. This cost is borne by the institution. Additional federal regulations add to the complexity of review and require additional time on the part of all concerned. An attempt has been made to document the costs of operation of the IRB in a single group of institutions. About 850 new or renewal applications are reviewed each year for $100,000 or about $100 per application. This is a sizable financial burden to be placed on the average medical school. Legislation is now proposed to support IRB activities by direct grants from the federal government.", "PMID": 430531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_500", "title": "The regional health education center: Illinois AHEC as an organizational prototype.", "content": "Illinois is one of 11 states to develop area health education center (AHEC) projects as recommended by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education and funded by the federal government. The experience of the University of Illinois Medical Center with its project suggests the evolution of a regional health education center concept in which AHEC functions are undertaken within the context of regional schools of medicine. A conceptual model is presented here which relates to regionalized health professions education, with medical education as the locus for its development.", "contents": "The regional health education center: Illinois AHEC as an organizational prototype. Illinois is one of 11 states to develop area health education center (AHEC) projects as recommended by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education and funded by the federal government. The experience of the University of Illinois Medical Center with its project suggests the evolution of a regional health education center concept in which AHEC functions are undertaken within the context of regional schools of medicine. A conceptual model is presented here which relates to regionalized health professions education, with medical education as the locus for its development.", "PMID": 430532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_501", "title": "The premed stereotype.", "content": "For this study of attitudes surrounding premedical education, the authors examined the consequences of competitive pressure for admission to medical school. Responses of premedical and other students were compared on a number of topics including: self-descriptions, premedical stereotypes, occupational values, attitudes toward various occupations, and perceptions of college pressures. Differences are reported for premedical subgroups, including science and nonscience majors, men and women, and minority group members and others.", "contents": "The premed stereotype. For this study of attitudes surrounding premedical education, the authors examined the consequences of competitive pressure for admission to medical school. Responses of premedical and other students were compared on a number of topics including: self-descriptions, premedical stereotypes, occupational values, attitudes toward various occupations, and perceptions of college pressures. Differences are reported for premedical subgroups, including science and nonscience majors, men and women, and minority group members and others.", "PMID": 430533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_502", "title": "Postgraduate training for general practice in the United Kingdom.", "content": "Although the role of general practice is well established in the United Kingdom's National Health Service, formal postgraduate training for primary care practice is a recent development. Trainees may enter three-year programs of coordinated inpatient and outpatient training or may select a series of independent posts. Programs have been developed to train general practitioners as teachers, and innovative courses have been established. Nevertheless, there is a curious emphasis on inpatient experiences, especially since British general practitioners seldom treat patients in the hospital. In their outpatient experiences trainees are provided with little variety in their instructors, practice settings, and medical problems. The demands on this already strained system will soon be increased due to recent legislation requiring postgraduate training for all new general practitioners. With a better understanding of training for primary care in the National Health Service, those planning American primary care training may avoid the problems and incorporate the attributes of British training for general practice.", "contents": "Postgraduate training for general practice in the United Kingdom. Although the role of general practice is well established in the United Kingdom's National Health Service, formal postgraduate training for primary care practice is a recent development. Trainees may enter three-year programs of coordinated inpatient and outpatient training or may select a series of independent posts. Programs have been developed to train general practitioners as teachers, and innovative courses have been established. Nevertheless, there is a curious emphasis on inpatient experiences, especially since British general practitioners seldom treat patients in the hospital. In their outpatient experiences trainees are provided with little variety in their instructors, practice settings, and medical problems. The demands on this already strained system will soon be increased due to recent legislation requiring postgraduate training for all new general practitioners. With a better understanding of training for primary care in the National Health Service, those planning American primary care training may avoid the problems and incorporate the attributes of British training for general practice.", "PMID": 430534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_503", "title": "Medical student clinics: the basis for a clerkship in family practice.", "content": "In this paper, the authors describe a popular elective clerkship in family practice a Community Hospital, Santa Rosa, California. The key element in the clerkship for the past six years has been the student's General Medical Clinic. Here, under the supervision of a family physician teacher, senior medical students care for patients with a wide variety of problems. The students work as a team with family nurse practitioners. The clinic has succeeded in offering patients an alternative to the emergency room and an entrance to the hospital's Model Family Practice Center. The students give the clerkship a very high rating as an educational experience. It has also been viable economically.", "contents": "Medical student clinics: the basis for a clerkship in family practice. In this paper, the authors describe a popular elective clerkship in family practice a Community Hospital, Santa Rosa, California. The key element in the clerkship for the past six years has been the student's General Medical Clinic. Here, under the supervision of a family physician teacher, senior medical students care for patients with a wide variety of problems. The students work as a team with family nurse practitioners. The clinic has succeeded in offering patients an alternative to the emergency room and an entrance to the hospital's Model Family Practice Center. The students give the clerkship a very high rating as an educational experience. It has also been viable economically.", "PMID": 430535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_504", "title": "Identification with the patient in a psychiatry clerkship.", "content": "In an earlier study medical students were found to view psychiatry with considerable anxiety partly because of an underlying fear of contact with psychiatrists and mentally ill patients. After supervising medical students for several years, the present authors found that the students' reactions to psychiatric patients may include, besides fear, a variety of behaviors which seem to reflect a process of identification with the patient. In this paper they describe various patterns of this process and their effects upon student-patient interaction.", "contents": "Identification with the patient in a psychiatry clerkship. In an earlier study medical students were found to view psychiatry with considerable anxiety partly because of an underlying fear of contact with psychiatrists and mentally ill patients. After supervising medical students for several years, the present authors found that the students' reactions to psychiatric patients may include, besides fear, a variety of behaviors which seem to reflect a process of identification with the patient. In this paper they describe various patterns of this process and their effects upon student-patient interaction.", "PMID": 430536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_505", "title": "The effects of the polyene antibiotic mepartricin on polymorphonuclear leucocyte function: an in-vitro study.", "content": "Mepartricin, a polyene antibiotic with candidacidal and trichomonicidal activity, was found to be without toxic effects for human polymorphonuclear leucocytes; the drug seems to be unable to enter the human cells. Some synergism between the antifungal activities of mepartricin and of human leucocytes is seen if Candida cells are pre-incubated with sub-lethal concentrations of the drug.", "contents": "The effects of the polyene antibiotic mepartricin on polymorphonuclear leucocyte function: an in-vitro study. Mepartricin, a polyene antibiotic with candidacidal and trichomonicidal activity, was found to be without toxic effects for human polymorphonuclear leucocytes; the drug seems to be unable to enter the human cells. Some synergism between the antifungal activities of mepartricin and of human leucocytes is seen if Candida cells are pre-incubated with sub-lethal concentrations of the drug.", "PMID": 430544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_506", "title": "Relationship between antibiotic resistance, the production of \"virulence factors\", and virulence for experimental animals in Staphylococcus aureus.", "content": "Variants that had lost some of their antibiotic-resistance determinants were selected from a multiple-antibiotic-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus. When tested by subcutaneous injection into guinea-pigs, and measured as the number of cocci needed to produce a skin lesion of an arbitrarily chosen diameter, the virulence of strains fell progressively with loss of resistance determinants. When the staphylococci were injected intracutaneously into mice, however, the results were less easy to interpret, but loss of resistance appeared to be associated with a reduction of the slope of the dose-response line. There was no association between the antibiogram of the strains and their production of certain enzymes and haemolysins.", "contents": "Relationship between antibiotic resistance, the production of \"virulence factors\", and virulence for experimental animals in Staphylococcus aureus. Variants that had lost some of their antibiotic-resistance determinants were selected from a multiple-antibiotic-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus. When tested by subcutaneous injection into guinea-pigs, and measured as the number of cocci needed to produce a skin lesion of an arbitrarily chosen diameter, the virulence of strains fell progressively with loss of resistance determinants. When the staphylococci were injected intracutaneously into mice, however, the results were less easy to interpret, but loss of resistance appeared to be associated with a reduction of the slope of the dose-response line. There was no association between the antibiogram of the strains and their production of certain enzymes and haemolysins.", "PMID": 430546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_507", "title": "Evaluation of the lysostaphin-susceptibility test for the classification of staphylococci.", "content": "A collection of 39 staphylococcal strains of known peptidoglycan structure was cultivated on media supplemented with different peptones or with glycine or inosine. The susceptibility to lysostaphin 50 mg/litre was then checked by a plate-dilution method. The results of the test were dependent on the conditions of growth. Another collection of 403 staphylococcal strains from international collections, clinical material and healthy human skin was also tested for susceptibility to lysostaphin. No uniform pattern of the lysostaphin sensitivity in individual staphylococcal species was found. The lysostaphin-susceptibility test thus seems to be of little value in the classification of staphylococci for the purposes of medical microbiology.", "contents": "Evaluation of the lysostaphin-susceptibility test for the classification of staphylococci. A collection of 39 staphylococcal strains of known peptidoglycan structure was cultivated on media supplemented with different peptones or with glycine or inosine. The susceptibility to lysostaphin 50 mg/litre was then checked by a plate-dilution method. The results of the test were dependent on the conditions of growth. Another collection of 403 staphylococcal strains from international collections, clinical material and healthy human skin was also tested for susceptibility to lysostaphin. No uniform pattern of the lysostaphin sensitivity in individual staphylococcal species was found. The lysostaphin-susceptibility test thus seems to be of little value in the classification of staphylococci for the purposes of medical microbiology.", "PMID": 430548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_508", "title": "Age-related susceptibility of mice to staphylococcal infection.", "content": "The virulence of six strains of staphylococci in experimental subcutaneous infection in mice of three age groups (3, 10 and 21 days) was studied. The results showed an age-related susceptibility to infection, in that the newborn mice were more susceptible than older mice to death and lesion formation. Resistance, i.e., ability to survive challenge of 10(7) c.f.u., developed at about 5 days. The strains used varied in toxin and enzyme pattern and there were marked differences in response to challenge as measured by mortality and lesion development. The Staphylococcus epidermidis strain was least virulent, while some strains of S. aureus produced lesions at low doses (10(4) c.f.u.). Two distinct types of lesion were observed, abscesses and necrotic lesions. Development of necrotic lesions appeared to be correlated with the ability to produce toxin in vitro.", "contents": "Age-related susceptibility of mice to staphylococcal infection. The virulence of six strains of staphylococci in experimental subcutaneous infection in mice of three age groups (3, 10 and 21 days) was studied. The results showed an age-related susceptibility to infection, in that the newborn mice were more susceptible than older mice to death and lesion formation. Resistance, i.e., ability to survive challenge of 10(7) c.f.u., developed at about 5 days. The strains used varied in toxin and enzyme pattern and there were marked differences in response to challenge as measured by mortality and lesion development. The Staphylococcus epidermidis strain was least virulent, while some strains of S. aureus produced lesions at low doses (10(4) c.f.u.). Two distinct types of lesion were observed, abscesses and necrotic lesions. Development of necrotic lesions appeared to be correlated with the ability to produce toxin in vitro.", "PMID": 430549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_509", "title": "Techniques utilizing real time stereo scanning electron microscopy in the microdissection of biological tissues.", "content": "The use of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) for the microdissection of biological tissue is described. The dissections were accomplished by the use of electrolytically pointed needles that were positioned in a simply constructed holder. The operations were viewed using real time stereo SEM, and recorded on videotape. Various methods for photographing the videotape recordings are outlined.", "contents": "Techniques utilizing real time stereo scanning electron microscopy in the microdissection of biological tissues. The use of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) for the microdissection of biological tissue is described. The dissections were accomplished by the use of electrolytically pointed needles that were positioned in a simply constructed holder. The operations were viewed using real time stereo SEM, and recorded on videotape. Various methods for photographing the videotape recordings are outlined.", "PMID": 430550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_510", "title": "A rapid method for estimating volume ratios.", "content": "A rapid stereological method is proposed for estimating the volume ratio V(K2)/V(K1) of two bodies K1, K2 such that K2 is embedded in K1. If K1, K2 fit approximately into a 'star specimen' model, then a single section, taken at a certain level through K1, provides a rather accurate estimate of V(K2,/V(K1). For a population of moderately similar star specimens, a constant sectioning level can be estimated from a sample using a least squares criterion. A pilot experiment involving mouse lymph nodes, aimed at estimating the mean and the variance of the individual fractions V (paracortex)/V(node), indicates a fair robustness against deviations from the model.", "contents": "A rapid method for estimating volume ratios. A rapid stereological method is proposed for estimating the volume ratio V(K2)/V(K1) of two bodies K1, K2 such that K2 is embedded in K1. If K1, K2 fit approximately into a 'star specimen' model, then a single section, taken at a certain level through K1, provides a rather accurate estimate of V(K2,/V(K1). For a population of moderately similar star specimens, a constant sectioning level can be estimated from a sample using a least squares criterion. A pilot experiment involving mouse lymph nodes, aimed at estimating the mean and the variance of the individual fractions V (paracortex)/V(node), indicates a fair robustness against deviations from the model.", "PMID": 430551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_511", "title": "A new method for scanning electron microscopic visualization of dermal elastic fibres.", "content": "Autoclaving sections of dermis for 8 h followed by fixation, dehydration and xylol-air drying yields a pure preparation of elastic fibres for scanning electron microscopy which retains the native architecture of this component. Elastic fibres were intertwined in a complex fashion with numerous branches. Fibres were predominantly cylindrical in the upper dermis and became larger and more elliptical in the deeper dermis. This method produces a means to study of organization of elastic fibres in a variety of disorders in which dermal changes are prominent.", "contents": "A new method for scanning electron microscopic visualization of dermal elastic fibres. Autoclaving sections of dermis for 8 h followed by fixation, dehydration and xylol-air drying yields a pure preparation of elastic fibres for scanning electron microscopy which retains the native architecture of this component. Elastic fibres were intertwined in a complex fashion with numerous branches. Fibres were predominantly cylindrical in the upper dermis and became larger and more elliptical in the deeper dermis. This method produces a means to study of organization of elastic fibres in a variety of disorders in which dermal changes are prominent.", "PMID": 430552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_512", "title": "Electron microscope autoradiography of a diffusible intracellular constituent, using freeze-dried frozen sections of mammalian intestinal epithelium.", "content": "Autoradiograms were prepared from freeze-dried frozen sections of rat intestinal epithelium, previously incubated in vitro with 3H-galactose. Although the sections showed evidence of disruption by ice-crystal growth during freezing, they retained sufficient recognizable ultrastructure to facilitate the identification of several subcellular compartments. Statistical analysis of the grain distribution indicated that a significant non-uniform distribution of the labelled galactose occurs in the absorptive cells during transport, and is maintained in the sections throughout the various stages of autoradiography.", "contents": "Electron microscope autoradiography of a diffusible intracellular constituent, using freeze-dried frozen sections of mammalian intestinal epithelium. Autoradiograms were prepared from freeze-dried frozen sections of rat intestinal epithelium, previously incubated in vitro with 3H-galactose. Although the sections showed evidence of disruption by ice-crystal growth during freezing, they retained sufficient recognizable ultrastructure to facilitate the identification of several subcellular compartments. Statistical analysis of the grain distribution indicated that a significant non-uniform distribution of the labelled galactose occurs in the absorptive cells during transport, and is maintained in the sections throughout the various stages of autoradiography.", "PMID": 430553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_513", "title": "Topography and thickness of air-dried human platelets measured by correlative transmission and scanning electron microscopy.", "content": "Human platelets rapidly air-dried on carbon-coated grids were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Whole cell mounts were photographed in a transmission electron microscope (TEM), coated with gold, and then examined in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The thickness of the cytoplasm towards the centre of the cells was estimated to be 20-40 nm, and the rim of dense material surrounding the cells was 40 nm thick. Some dense bodies stood out as much as 100 nm above the dried cytoplasm. These measurements are important for evaluating cytoplasmic volume during microprobe analyses of air-dried platelet preparations.", "contents": "Topography and thickness of air-dried human platelets measured by correlative transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Human platelets rapidly air-dried on carbon-coated grids were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Whole cell mounts were photographed in a transmission electron microscope (TEM), coated with gold, and then examined in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The thickness of the cytoplasm towards the centre of the cells was estimated to be 20-40 nm, and the rim of dense material surrounding the cells was 40 nm thick. Some dense bodies stood out as much as 100 nm above the dried cytoplasm. These measurements are important for evaluating cytoplasmic volume during microprobe analyses of air-dried platelet preparations.", "PMID": 430554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_514", "title": "Partial regeneration of the above-elbow amputated rat forelimb. I. Innate responses.", "content": "Although a number of recent studies describe the facilitation of limb regeneration by electrical and other forms of stimulation, little is known of innate regenerative capacity in the mammalian limb. The present report describes spontaneous regenerative responses following subtotal forelimb amputation in the young white rat. In one group of animals the forelimb was amputated through the lower humerus and the skin sutured closed. In a second group, adjacent muscle tissue still attached to bone at its origin(s) was interposed between the cut surface of the humerus and the skin. Among animals of the first group (skin closure only) bone growth and limb regenerative responses were generally not observed. Animals of the second group displayed significant elaborations of cartilage and bone at the limb terminus. The appearance and subsequent modification of these tissues suggest that some capacity for limb regeneration exists innately in the young rat and can be more readily evoked than has been recognized heretofore. It is concluded that extant and forthcoming reports of electrically stimulated skeletal tissue growth, repair and regeneration among eutherial mammals should be examined to determine whether reported responses to stimulation represent advances beyond what might be expected from innate replacement processes alone.", "contents": "Partial regeneration of the above-elbow amputated rat forelimb. I. Innate responses. Although a number of recent studies describe the facilitation of limb regeneration by electrical and other forms of stimulation, little is known of innate regenerative capacity in the mammalian limb. The present report describes spontaneous regenerative responses following subtotal forelimb amputation in the young white rat. In one group of animals the forelimb was amputated through the lower humerus and the skin sutured closed. In a second group, adjacent muscle tissue still attached to bone at its origin(s) was interposed between the cut surface of the humerus and the skin. Among animals of the first group (skin closure only) bone growth and limb regenerative responses were generally not observed. Animals of the second group displayed significant elaborations of cartilage and bone at the limb terminus. The appearance and subsequent modification of these tissues suggest that some capacity for limb regeneration exists innately in the young rat and can be more readily evoked than has been recognized heretofore. It is concluded that extant and forthcoming reports of electrically stimulated skeletal tissue growth, repair and regeneration among eutherial mammals should be examined to determine whether reported responses to stimulation represent advances beyond what might be expected from innate replacement processes alone.", "PMID": 430576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_515", "title": "Partial regeneration of the above-elbow amputated rat forelimb. II. Electrical and mechanical facilitation.", "content": "This investigation was undertaken to examine the observations of Becker ('72) pertaining to the electrical facilitation of partial limb regenerative responses by means of Ag-Pt wire couples applied to the limb stumps of young, forelimb-amputated white rats. Additionally, in order to examine the possible role of mechanical effects of such device implantations, we have employed uncoupled devices delivering no current or potential difference. In the present experiments, in response to coupled device implantation, cartilage and bone were actively formed in the vicinity of the Pt electrode tip. These tissues contributed to the lengthwise extension of the limb and to the partial restoration of the distal humeral extremity. In limbs bearing the uncoupled electrical devices, qualitatively similar responses were noted, but osteogenesis was diminished in extent compared to that seen in limbs bearing the active or coupled devices. It is therefore necessary to consider the role of mechanical factors in the elicitation of the observed regenerative responses. Myogenesis was enhanced in electrically stimulated limbs, but not in those rats bearing uncoupled devices.", "contents": "Partial regeneration of the above-elbow amputated rat forelimb. II. Electrical and mechanical facilitation. This investigation was undertaken to examine the observations of Becker ('72) pertaining to the electrical facilitation of partial limb regenerative responses by means of Ag-Pt wire couples applied to the limb stumps of young, forelimb-amputated white rats. Additionally, in order to examine the possible role of mechanical effects of such device implantations, we have employed uncoupled devices delivering no current or potential difference. In the present experiments, in response to coupled device implantation, cartilage and bone were actively formed in the vicinity of the Pt electrode tip. These tissues contributed to the lengthwise extension of the limb and to the partial restoration of the distal humeral extremity. In limbs bearing the uncoupled electrical devices, qualitatively similar responses were noted, but osteogenesis was diminished in extent compared to that seen in limbs bearing the active or coupled devices. It is therefore necessary to consider the role of mechanical factors in the elicitation of the observed regenerative responses. Myogenesis was enhanced in electrically stimulated limbs, but not in those rats bearing uncoupled devices.", "PMID": 430577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_516", "title": "The management of laryngeal cancer.", "content": "Carcinoma of the larynx is best managed in an interdisciplinary centre with wide therapeutic and rehabilitative services. Current management is confused, but may be simplified by consideration of three groups: 1) no fixation of laryngeal structures, 2) fixation of laryngeal structures and extension beyond the larynx, 3) all others including carcinoma in situ, verrucous carcinoma, transglottic tumor, and squamous carcinoma with marked airway obstruction. The rational treatment of Group 1 glottic tumors is primary radiation, which produces 75% crude and 92% corrected five year tumor free survival. If surgery is undertaken as primary treatment or for salvage, a vertical hemilaryngectomy may preserve the voice. Group 1 supraglottic carcinomas may be divided into supraglottic and marginal. Thirty per cent have palpable nodes at diagnosis and a further 20% occult disease in the cervical chain. Irradiation of neck nodes or block dissection is an integral part of treatment. The indications for a supraglottic horizontal partial laryngectomy are outlined. Where indicated this has five year survival figures of 70%. Recurrence is usually in the neck. Marginal tumors have a 50% five year survival rate when treated by conservation surgery combined with pre-operative radiation. Recent radiotherapeutic advances have improved treatment of these lesions. Thirty to 40% of patients with Group 2 tumors have regional metastases at presentation. There are no fixed protocols for treatment of these patients, less than 50% of whom will survive five years tumor free. The difficulty in carrying out a protocol based on pre-operative radiation with planned surgery is outlined. Under optimum conditions treatment should be primary radiation with salvage surgery for failures or recurrence, for the results are almost as good as primary surgery but 30% of larynges are saved. The difficulties of diagnosing recurrent tumor in irradiated tissue are discussed. Care must be taken to recognize that group of patients in whom tissue edema is the result of perichondritis rather than tumor recurrence, because in these patients surgery is extremely hazardous. Problems of diagnosis and methods of treatment of carcinoma in situ, and verrucous carcinoma are described. Transglottic carcinomas are defined and treatment is primary total laryngectomy with appropriate neck dissection. Similarly if tumors are causing major airway obstruction, treatment is by primary laryngectomy.", "contents": "The management of laryngeal cancer. Carcinoma of the larynx is best managed in an interdisciplinary centre with wide therapeutic and rehabilitative services. Current management is confused, but may be simplified by consideration of three groups: 1) no fixation of laryngeal structures, 2) fixation of laryngeal structures and extension beyond the larynx, 3) all others including carcinoma in situ, verrucous carcinoma, transglottic tumor, and squamous carcinoma with marked airway obstruction. The rational treatment of Group 1 glottic tumors is primary radiation, which produces 75% crude and 92% corrected five year tumor free survival. If surgery is undertaken as primary treatment or for salvage, a vertical hemilaryngectomy may preserve the voice. Group 1 supraglottic carcinomas may be divided into supraglottic and marginal. Thirty per cent have palpable nodes at diagnosis and a further 20% occult disease in the cervical chain. Irradiation of neck nodes or block dissection is an integral part of treatment. The indications for a supraglottic horizontal partial laryngectomy are outlined. Where indicated this has five year survival figures of 70%. Recurrence is usually in the neck. Marginal tumors have a 50% five year survival rate when treated by conservation surgery combined with pre-operative radiation. Recent radiotherapeutic advances have improved treatment of these lesions. Thirty to 40% of patients with Group 2 tumors have regional metastases at presentation. There are no fixed protocols for treatment of these patients, less than 50% of whom will survive five years tumor free. The difficulty in carrying out a protocol based on pre-operative radiation with planned surgery is outlined. Under optimum conditions treatment should be primary radiation with salvage surgery for failures or recurrence, for the results are almost as good as primary surgery but 30% of larynges are saved. The difficulties of diagnosing recurrent tumor in irradiated tissue are discussed. Care must be taken to recognize that group of patients in whom tissue edema is the result of perichondritis rather than tumor recurrence, because in these patients surgery is extremely hazardous. Problems of diagnosis and methods of treatment of carcinoma in situ, and verrucous carcinoma are described. Transglottic carcinomas are defined and treatment is primary total laryngectomy with appropriate neck dissection. Similarly if tumors are causing major airway obstruction, treatment is by primary laryngectomy.", "PMID": 430578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_517", "title": "Granulomatos cervical lymphadenitis.", "content": "One hundred and thirty-nine cases of pathologically involved cervical lymph nodes have been reviewed, and granulomatous lymphadenitis found in 29 patients (20.9 per cent). There were two cases of sarcoidosis, 10 of tularemia, five patients (3.6 per cent) had tuberculous lymphadenitis and 12 (8.7 per cent) fulfilled commonly accepted criteria for infection with atypical mycobacteria. The clinical features of the latter condition, which is probably insufficiently recognized, are reviewed, and surgery is recommended as the primary treatment modality.", "contents": "Granulomatos cervical lymphadenitis. One hundred and thirty-nine cases of pathologically involved cervical lymph nodes have been reviewed, and granulomatous lymphadenitis found in 29 patients (20.9 per cent). There were two cases of sarcoidosis, 10 of tularemia, five patients (3.6 per cent) had tuberculous lymphadenitis and 12 (8.7 per cent) fulfilled commonly accepted criteria for infection with atypical mycobacteria. The clinical features of the latter condition, which is probably insufficiently recognized, are reviewed, and surgery is recommended as the primary treatment modality.", "PMID": 430579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_518", "title": "[Sialoscintimetry in disorders of the facial nerve].", "content": "The comparative study of submandibular gland function before and after unilateral section of the chorda tympani, is used to verify the validity of sequential scintigraphy as a method of appraising the function of the salivary glands. Sequential scintigraphy of the submandibular glands was evaluated as a new, simple, and dependable test of the function of the submandibular glands, in topographical and prognostic assessment of 10 patients with unilateral idiopathic facial paralysis. The results of this neurodiagnostic test were compared and were found to be in close agreement with the results obtained by submandibular salivary flow measurement. The use of sequential scintigraphy of the submandibular glands constitutes a valuable tool in the clinical evaluation of patients with peripheral facial nerve disorders.", "contents": "[Sialoscintimetry in disorders of the facial nerve]. The comparative study of submandibular gland function before and after unilateral section of the chorda tympani, is used to verify the validity of sequential scintigraphy as a method of appraising the function of the salivary glands. Sequential scintigraphy of the submandibular glands was evaluated as a new, simple, and dependable test of the function of the submandibular glands, in topographical and prognostic assessment of 10 patients with unilateral idiopathic facial paralysis. The results of this neurodiagnostic test were compared and were found to be in close agreement with the results obtained by submandibular salivary flow measurement. The use of sequential scintigraphy of the submandibular glands constitutes a valuable tool in the clinical evaluation of patients with peripheral facial nerve disorders.", "PMID": 430580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_519", "title": "A critical evaluation of the glycerol test in M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease.", "content": "The glycerol test is currently widely used to evaluate Meni\u00e8re's disease, particularly in regard to its suitability for decompressive surgical therapy. Our previous findings have shown that patients with Meni\u00e8re's syndrome respond extremely well to placebo treatment. We have investigated the effect of psychological factors in the outcome of the glycerol test. It was administered twice to each of a group of patients with a typical Meni\u00e8re's syndrome. On one occasion the patient was told the hearing would improve, and on the other that the hearing would worsen. The same dose of glycerol was provided for each test, but with a different flavor. The sequence of test was randomly applied. The audiologist was unaware of instructions given to the patient. The patients usually responded as instructed. These results are discussed with particular regard to the risk of patient selection for surgery.", "contents": "A critical evaluation of the glycerol test in M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease. The glycerol test is currently widely used to evaluate Meni\u00e8re's disease, particularly in regard to its suitability for decompressive surgical therapy. Our previous findings have shown that patients with Meni\u00e8re's syndrome respond extremely well to placebo treatment. We have investigated the effect of psychological factors in the outcome of the glycerol test. It was administered twice to each of a group of patients with a typical Meni\u00e8re's syndrome. On one occasion the patient was told the hearing would improve, and on the other that the hearing would worsen. The same dose of glycerol was provided for each test, but with a different flavor. The sequence of test was randomly applied. The audiologist was unaware of instructions given to the patient. The patients usually responded as instructed. These results are discussed with particular regard to the risk of patient selection for surgery.", "PMID": 430581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_520", "title": "The mechanics of benign paroxysmal vertigo.", "content": "Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) is a disorder of the vestibular labyrinth. The clinical features can be explained by an abnormality in the posterior semicircular canal. Under the influence of gravity, a density differential between the endolymph and the cupula will cause displacement of the cupula when changes in head position occur. The presence or absence of fatiguability is a useful test as it helps define etiology, prognosis, and therapy. At the risk of adding yet another classification of nystagmus to the literature, we submit that division of BPV into two types (fatiguable and nonfatiguable) will simplify and rationalize the management of this common complaint.", "contents": "The mechanics of benign paroxysmal vertigo. Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) is a disorder of the vestibular labyrinth. The clinical features can be explained by an abnormality in the posterior semicircular canal. Under the influence of gravity, a density differential between the endolymph and the cupula will cause displacement of the cupula when changes in head position occur. The presence or absence of fatiguability is a useful test as it helps define etiology, prognosis, and therapy. At the risk of adding yet another classification of nystagmus to the literature, we submit that division of BPV into two types (fatiguable and nonfatiguable) will simplify and rationalize the management of this common complaint.", "PMID": 430582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_521", "title": "Inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma.", "content": "Since 1960, 15 patients with histologically proven inverted papilloma of the nose and paranasal sinuses have been treated at the University Hospital, City Hospital, and V. A. Hospital in Boston. Eight of these patients have been found to have squamous cell carcinoma in the pathological specimens; four of these patients have died of carcinoma. Wide surgical excision, usually through a lateral rhinotomy with exenteration of the invaded sinus as indicated, was the therapy of choice. In spite of the published incidence of carcinoma in inverted papilloma of approximately 7-24 per cent, we have found a much higher rate. We therefore, suggest that meticulous microscopic examination of multiple sections of inverted papilloma specimens be carried out in a search for evidence of squamous cell carcinoma. Inverted papilloma should be treated as a premalignant lesion by appropriate radical surgery.", "contents": "Inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma. Since 1960, 15 patients with histologically proven inverted papilloma of the nose and paranasal sinuses have been treated at the University Hospital, City Hospital, and V. A. Hospital in Boston. Eight of these patients have been found to have squamous cell carcinoma in the pathological specimens; four of these patients have died of carcinoma. Wide surgical excision, usually through a lateral rhinotomy with exenteration of the invaded sinus as indicated, was the therapy of choice. In spite of the published incidence of carcinoma in inverted papilloma of approximately 7-24 per cent, we have found a much higher rate. We therefore, suggest that meticulous microscopic examination of multiple sections of inverted papilloma specimens be carried out in a search for evidence of squamous cell carcinoma. Inverted papilloma should be treated as a premalignant lesion by appropriate radical surgery.", "PMID": 430583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_522", "title": "Styloid, velar, and pharyngeal muscles in cleft palate. Anatomical findings in elderly cadaver with unrepaired cleft palate.", "content": "Dessection of the musculature of the palate, pharynx, and styloid process was carried out in a cadaver aged 78 years with an unrepaired complete cleft palate. A new muscle named \"the accessory stylohyoid\" was found to be attached to the styloid process and the lesser cornu of the hyoid bone bilaterally. Anatomical changes in other muscles especially the stylopharyngeus and palatopharyngeus are described. The functions of these muscles are discussed on the basis of the anatomical findings and previous observations of other investigators.", "contents": "Styloid, velar, and pharyngeal muscles in cleft palate. Anatomical findings in elderly cadaver with unrepaired cleft palate. Dessection of the musculature of the palate, pharynx, and styloid process was carried out in a cadaver aged 78 years with an unrepaired complete cleft palate. A new muscle named \"the accessory stylohyoid\" was found to be attached to the styloid process and the lesser cornu of the hyoid bone bilaterally. Anatomical changes in other muscles especially the stylopharyngeus and palatopharyngeus are described. The functions of these muscles are discussed on the basis of the anatomical findings and previous observations of other investigators.", "PMID": 430584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_523", "title": "Nasal aerodynamics.", "content": "The historical development of nasal aerodynamic measurement is discussed. Attention is drawn to the absence of a consensus on adequate rhinometric techniques and standards, which hampers the elevation of rhinometry to the universal clinical status of audiometric, impedance, or nystagmus measurement. A computer-aided technique is described which overcomes some problems of rhinometry, by measurement of the amount of energy the body devotes to moving respiratory air through each separate nasal cavity. Although the approach is different, our preliminary results confirm previous work and suggest that assessment of the work of breathing is a promising technique in the investigation of nasal respiratory airflow.", "contents": "Nasal aerodynamics. The historical development of nasal aerodynamic measurement is discussed. Attention is drawn to the absence of a consensus on adequate rhinometric techniques and standards, which hampers the elevation of rhinometry to the universal clinical status of audiometric, impedance, or nystagmus measurement. A computer-aided technique is described which overcomes some problems of rhinometry, by measurement of the amount of energy the body devotes to moving respiratory air through each separate nasal cavity. Although the approach is different, our preliminary results confirm previous work and suggest that assessment of the work of breathing is a promising technique in the investigation of nasal respiratory airflow.", "PMID": 430585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_524", "title": "Restriction insensitivity in bacteriophage T5 I. Genetic characterization of mutants sensitive to EcoRI restriction.", "content": "Unmodified bacteriophage T5 is able to grow normally on bacterial hosts carrying three different Escherichia coli restriction systems, EcoK, EcoPI, and EcoRI. Under the same conditions, the plating efficiency of bacteriophage gamma is less than 10(-9). At least in the case of EcoRI, this lack of in vivo restriction is not due to lack of restriction sites on the T5 DNA molecule. These observations suggest that bacteriophage T5 specifies one or more restriction protection systems. Mutants (ris) of T5 have been isolated which confer sensitivity to EcoRI restriction but not to EcoK or EcoPI. The mutations are located in the pre-early region of the genetic map but are too far apart to be alleles of a single gene. Complementation studies show that the ris mutants can be helped to grow on the EcoRI-restricting host by coinfection with T5+. This result provides evidence for a restriction protection function but does not necessarily show that the ris mutants are defective in such a system.", "contents": "Restriction insensitivity in bacteriophage T5 I. Genetic characterization of mutants sensitive to EcoRI restriction. Unmodified bacteriophage T5 is able to grow normally on bacterial hosts carrying three different Escherichia coli restriction systems, EcoK, EcoPI, and EcoRI. Under the same conditions, the plating efficiency of bacteriophage gamma is less than 10(-9). At least in the case of EcoRI, this lack of in vivo restriction is not due to lack of restriction sites on the T5 DNA molecule. These observations suggest that bacteriophage T5 specifies one or more restriction protection systems. Mutants (ris) of T5 have been isolated which confer sensitivity to EcoRI restriction but not to EcoK or EcoPI. The mutations are located in the pre-early region of the genetic map but are too far apart to be alleles of a single gene. Complementation studies show that the ris mutants can be helped to grow on the EcoRI-restricting host by coinfection with T5+. This result provides evidence for a restriction protection function but does not necessarily show that the ris mutants are defective in such a system.", "PMID": 430589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_525", "title": "Mitochondrial calcium uptake during infection of chicken embryo cells with Semliki Forest virus.", "content": "The key role of the mitochondria in the regulation of cellular Ca2+ led to a study of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake during the infection of chicken embryo cells with Semliki Forest virus. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake was stimulated during the first 5 h of infection but declined later in infection. The early stimulation suggests an increase of cytoplasmic ionized Ca2+, whereas the later decrease indicates mitochondrial injury. This functional deterioration was correlated with an increase of the permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane. Polarographic experiments showed that electron transport is impaired, whereas transduction of energy to Ca2+ uptake is intact.", "contents": "Mitochondrial calcium uptake during infection of chicken embryo cells with Semliki Forest virus. The key role of the mitochondria in the regulation of cellular Ca2+ led to a study of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake during the infection of chicken embryo cells with Semliki Forest virus. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake was stimulated during the first 5 h of infection but declined later in infection. The early stimulation suggests an increase of cytoplasmic ionized Ca2+, whereas the later decrease indicates mitochondrial injury. This functional deterioration was correlated with an increase of the permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane. Polarographic experiments showed that electron transport is impaired, whereas transduction of energy to Ca2+ uptake is intact.", "PMID": 430590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_526", "title": "Restriction insensitivity in bacteriophage T5. II. Lack of EcoRI modification in T5+ and T5ris mutants.", "content": "Neither bacteriophage T5+ nor its EcoRI-sensitive ris mutants became modified during growth on an EcoRI-modifying host. For this reason, the rare ris plaques able to grow on the EcoRI-modifying host were always due to revertant phage rather than to modified ris mutants. The ris mutations resulted in the creation of new EcoRI cleavage sites in the terminally repetitious first-step transfer DNA, and analysis of T5 ris revertants showed loss of these sites and restoration of the wild-type restriction pattern. Natural EcoRI sites present in the second-step transfer DNA were never lost in T5ris revertants, indicating that these are irrelevant to in vivo restriction and are protected during growth on the restricting host.", "contents": "Restriction insensitivity in bacteriophage T5. II. Lack of EcoRI modification in T5+ and T5ris mutants. Neither bacteriophage T5+ nor its EcoRI-sensitive ris mutants became modified during growth on an EcoRI-modifying host. For this reason, the rare ris plaques able to grow on the EcoRI-modifying host were always due to revertant phage rather than to modified ris mutants. The ris mutations resulted in the creation of new EcoRI cleavage sites in the terminally repetitious first-step transfer DNA, and analysis of T5 ris revertants showed loss of these sites and restoration of the wild-type restriction pattern. Natural EcoRI sites present in the second-step transfer DNA were never lost in T5ris revertants, indicating that these are irrelevant to in vivo restriction and are protected during growth on the restricting host.", "PMID": 430591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_527", "title": "Mapping of class II promoter sites utilized in vitro by T7-specific RNA polymerase on bacteriophage T7 DNA.", "content": "Restriction endonuclease Bgl II cleaves T7 DNA at a unique site (28.76% on the standard T7 map), yielding two fragments of molecular weights 18.9 x 10(6) (A) and 7.6 x 10(6) (B). Fragment B, representing the leftmost portion of the genome, has been purified by zone sedimentation. Transcription of fragment B by T7-specific RNA polymerase gives only r-strand-specific RNA. Analysis of the products by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals four major RNA species which have apparent molecular weights of 2.1 x 10(6), 1.36 x 10(6), 0.85 x 10(6) and 0.125 x 10(6), respectively. Each of these RNAs is reduced in size when transcription is carried out with fragment B, which has been shortened by treatment with Escherichia coli exonuclease III. Therefore, each of the transcripts must be terminated at the right end of fragment B. Analysis of the molecular weights of the four transcripts produced from whole and from exonucleolytically shortened fragment B suggests that these transcripts are read from promoters located at 13.5, 18.9, 22.6, and 27.9%, respectively, on the standard T7 map. Hence, there are at least four promoters governing the transcription of the class II region. Transcripts initiated at these promoters on intact T7 DNA appear to read through the class II and part of the class III genetic region and terminate at the strong terminator for T7-specific RNA polymerase near 61%. Transcription of fragment B which has been cleaved with the restriction endonuclease Hpa I seems to activate a fifth promoter for T7-specific RNA polymerase. This promoter appears to be identical to the promoter previously described by Oakley and Coleman (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 74:4266-4270, 1977) that maps near 15% on the standard T7 map. Little or no RNA is read from T7 Bgl II fragment B, which has a mobility expected for a transcript read from this promoter. However, upon cleavage with Hpa I, this promoter is utilized approximately 10-fold more efficiently than the other class II promoters. The mechanism of this activation is not yet known.", "contents": "Mapping of class II promoter sites utilized in vitro by T7-specific RNA polymerase on bacteriophage T7 DNA. Restriction endonuclease Bgl II cleaves T7 DNA at a unique site (28.76% on the standard T7 map), yielding two fragments of molecular weights 18.9 x 10(6) (A) and 7.6 x 10(6) (B). Fragment B, representing the leftmost portion of the genome, has been purified by zone sedimentation. Transcription of fragment B by T7-specific RNA polymerase gives only r-strand-specific RNA. Analysis of the products by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals four major RNA species which have apparent molecular weights of 2.1 x 10(6), 1.36 x 10(6), 0.85 x 10(6) and 0.125 x 10(6), respectively. Each of these RNAs is reduced in size when transcription is carried out with fragment B, which has been shortened by treatment with Escherichia coli exonuclease III. Therefore, each of the transcripts must be terminated at the right end of fragment B. Analysis of the molecular weights of the four transcripts produced from whole and from exonucleolytically shortened fragment B suggests that these transcripts are read from promoters located at 13.5, 18.9, 22.6, and 27.9%, respectively, on the standard T7 map. Hence, there are at least four promoters governing the transcription of the class II region. Transcripts initiated at these promoters on intact T7 DNA appear to read through the class II and part of the class III genetic region and terminate at the strong terminator for T7-specific RNA polymerase near 61%. Transcription of fragment B which has been cleaved with the restriction endonuclease Hpa I seems to activate a fifth promoter for T7-specific RNA polymerase. This promoter appears to be identical to the promoter previously described by Oakley and Coleman (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 74:4266-4270, 1977) that maps near 15% on the standard T7 map. Little or no RNA is read from T7 Bgl II fragment B, which has a mobility expected for a transcript read from this promoter. However, upon cleavage with Hpa I, this promoter is utilized approximately 10-fold more efficiently than the other class II promoters. The mechanism of this activation is not yet known.", "PMID": 430592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_528", "title": "Terminally redundant deletion mutants of bacteriophage BF23.", "content": "Deletion mutants of bacteriophage BF23 were isolated and the positions of the deletions were determined. Two different deletable regions were detected: one in the same region as previously reported for bacteriophage T5, which is closely related to BF23; and the other within both terminal repetitions. The former deletable region lay between positions 0.31 and 0.36, which represented the fractional lengths of the BF23 ( + ) DNA as measured from its left end. The latter deletion was evenly divided between the two terminal repetitions. The deletion in the left terminal repetition lay between positions 0.044 and 0.078 and was repeated in the corresponding region of the right terminal repetition between positions 0.966 and 1.0. The size of the DNA transferred to host cells during the first step of DNA transfer by BF23 carrying deletions in the terminal repetitions of its DNA was less than the size of DNA transferred during the first step by wild-type BF23 by an amount equal to the size of the deletion in each terminal repetition. This finding suggests the existence of a specific mechanism for delineating the position at which the first step of DNA transfer is stopped.", "contents": "Terminally redundant deletion mutants of bacteriophage BF23. Deletion mutants of bacteriophage BF23 were isolated and the positions of the deletions were determined. Two different deletable regions were detected: one in the same region as previously reported for bacteriophage T5, which is closely related to BF23; and the other within both terminal repetitions. The former deletable region lay between positions 0.31 and 0.36, which represented the fractional lengths of the BF23 ( + ) DNA as measured from its left end. The latter deletion was evenly divided between the two terminal repetitions. The deletion in the left terminal repetition lay between positions 0.044 and 0.078 and was repeated in the corresponding region of the right terminal repetition between positions 0.966 and 1.0. The size of the DNA transferred to host cells during the first step of DNA transfer by BF23 carrying deletions in the terminal repetitions of its DNA was less than the size of DNA transferred during the first step by wild-type BF23 by an amount equal to the size of the deletion in each terminal repetition. This finding suggests the existence of a specific mechanism for delineating the position at which the first step of DNA transfer is stopped.", "PMID": 430593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_529", "title": "Influenza B virus genome: assignment of viral polypeptides to RNA segments.", "content": "It was shown that all eight RNA segments of influenza B viruses are most likely monocistronic and code for eight virus-specific polypeptides. A genetic map of the influenza B virus genome was established, and six polypeptides (P1 protein, nucleoprotein, hemagglutinin, neuraminidase, M protein, and nonstructural protein) were unambiguously assigned to specific RNA segments. Molecular weight estimates of the eight individual genes are obtained by using the glyoxal method. These results suggest that each influenza B virus RNA segment has a greater molecular weight than the influenza A virus RNA segment which codes for the analogous gene product.", "contents": "Influenza B virus genome: assignment of viral polypeptides to RNA segments. It was shown that all eight RNA segments of influenza B viruses are most likely monocistronic and code for eight virus-specific polypeptides. A genetic map of the influenza B virus genome was established, and six polypeptides (P1 protein, nucleoprotein, hemagglutinin, neuraminidase, M protein, and nonstructural protein) were unambiguously assigned to specific RNA segments. Molecular weight estimates of the eight individual genes are obtained by using the glyoxal method. These results suggest that each influenza B virus RNA segment has a greater molecular weight than the influenza A virus RNA segment which codes for the analogous gene product.", "PMID": 430594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_530", "title": "Physical characterization of the superhelical DNA genome of an enveloped mycoplasmavirus.", "content": "Mycoplasmavirus MVL2 is a nonlytic enveloped virion containing DNA. This DNA has been shown to be a double-stranded circular superhelical molecule of 11.8 kilobase pairs (7.8 X 10(6) daltons). The superhelix density is greater than that of phi X174 RFI but less than that of PM2 phage DNA. A physical map of the MVL2 genome has been obtained using restriction endonucleases.", "contents": "Physical characterization of the superhelical DNA genome of an enveloped mycoplasmavirus. Mycoplasmavirus MVL2 is a nonlytic enveloped virion containing DNA. This DNA has been shown to be a double-stranded circular superhelical molecule of 11.8 kilobase pairs (7.8 X 10(6) daltons). The superhelix density is greater than that of phi X174 RFI but less than that of PM2 phage DNA. A physical map of the MVL2 genome has been obtained using restriction endonucleases.", "PMID": 430595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_531", "title": "Characterization of mycoplasmavirus MVL2 DNA.", "content": "The size and molecular configuration of mycoplasmavirus MVL2 DNA are presented. The DNA was shown to be a covalently closed circular duplex molecule with a molecular weight of 7.4 X 10(6). In sucrose gradients at neutral pH, the form I and form II DNA molecules have sedimentation values of approximately 29S and 23S, respectively. Under alkaline conditions, the form I and form II have S values of 70 and 20, respectively.", "contents": "Characterization of mycoplasmavirus MVL2 DNA. The size and molecular configuration of mycoplasmavirus MVL2 DNA are presented. The DNA was shown to be a covalently closed circular duplex molecule with a molecular weight of 7.4 X 10(6). In sucrose gradients at neutral pH, the form I and form II DNA molecules have sedimentation values of approximately 29S and 23S, respectively. Under alkaline conditions, the form I and form II have S values of 70 and 20, respectively.", "PMID": 430596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_532", "title": "Subcellular distribution of newly synthesized virus-specific polypeptides in Moloney murine leukemia virus infected cells.", "content": "Immune precipitation analysis of pulse-labeled proteins present in subcellular fractions of mouse embryo cells infected with Moloney murine leukemia virus showed the presence of anti-gp70 serum-precipitable viral envelope gene products mainly in the microsomal fractions of these cells. In contrast, anti-p30 serum-specific gag (group specific antigen) gene products were found to be distributed in similar amounts in both the microsomal and postmicrosomal supernatant fractions of pulse-labeled cells.", "contents": "Subcellular distribution of newly synthesized virus-specific polypeptides in Moloney murine leukemia virus infected cells. Immune precipitation analysis of pulse-labeled proteins present in subcellular fractions of mouse embryo cells infected with Moloney murine leukemia virus showed the presence of anti-gp70 serum-precipitable viral envelope gene products mainly in the microsomal fractions of these cells. In contrast, anti-p30 serum-specific gag (group specific antigen) gene products were found to be distributed in similar amounts in both the microsomal and postmicrosomal supernatant fractions of pulse-labeled cells.", "PMID": 430597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_533", "title": "Inhibition of coronavirus 229E replication by actinomycin D.", "content": "The yields of human coronavirus 229E grown in L132 cells were markedly inhibited by actinomycin D, the 50% inhibitory dose being 0.1 micron/ml. Inhibition was maximal during the early phase of virus replication, did not appear to involve viral RNA synthesis per se, and was shown to be dependent on the input multiplicity of infection.", "contents": "Inhibition of coronavirus 229E replication by actinomycin D. The yields of human coronavirus 229E grown in L132 cells were markedly inhibited by actinomycin D, the 50% inhibitory dose being 0.1 micron/ml. Inhibition was maximal during the early phase of virus replication, did not appear to involve viral RNA synthesis per se, and was shown to be dependent on the input multiplicity of infection.", "PMID": 430598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_534", "title": "Inhibition of vaccinia virus growth by zinc ions: effects on early RNA and thymidine kinase synthesis.", "content": "Accumulation of thymidine kinase activity in vaccinia virus-infected cells was severely inhibited by zinc ions if the drug was added within 1 h postinfection. If added later, zinc ions had no effect on the enzyme synthesis. A fraction of RNA which is normally synthesized in infected cells, was missing from a proper part of the gradient if the cells were treated with zinc ions within 1 h postinfection (as has been shown by cosedimentation of pulse-labeled RNAs in isokinetic gradients). It is suggested that a transcriptional (or posttranscriptional) step is involved in zinc-caused inhibition of vaccinia virus growth.", "contents": "Inhibition of vaccinia virus growth by zinc ions: effects on early RNA and thymidine kinase synthesis. Accumulation of thymidine kinase activity in vaccinia virus-infected cells was severely inhibited by zinc ions if the drug was added within 1 h postinfection. If added later, zinc ions had no effect on the enzyme synthesis. A fraction of RNA which is normally synthesized in infected cells, was missing from a proper part of the gradient if the cells were treated with zinc ions within 1 h postinfection (as has been shown by cosedimentation of pulse-labeled RNAs in isokinetic gradients). It is suggested that a transcriptional (or posttranscriptional) step is involved in zinc-caused inhibition of vaccinia virus growth.", "PMID": 430599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_535", "title": "Inhibition of entry of the lipid-containing bacteriophage PR4 by fatty acid derivatives.", "content": "Amphiphilic fatty acid derivatives having a 14- to 20-carbon cis-unsaturated alkyl chain were found to be potent inhibitors of the entry process of the lipid-containing bacteriophage PR4.", "contents": "Inhibition of entry of the lipid-containing bacteriophage PR4 by fatty acid derivatives. Amphiphilic fatty acid derivatives having a 14- to 20-carbon cis-unsaturated alkyl chain were found to be potent inhibitors of the entry process of the lipid-containing bacteriophage PR4.", "PMID": 430600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_536", "title": "Effects of 17beta-estradiol on the replication of rubella virus in an estrogen-responsive, continuous cell line.", "content": "A 70% reduction in the number of infectious rubella virions normally produced in MCF-7 cells occurred when the cells were stimulated with 17beta-estradiol. Analysis of virus-induced RNA indicated a delay in the conversion of replicative intermediate to virion RNA.", "contents": "Effects of 17beta-estradiol on the replication of rubella virus in an estrogen-responsive, continuous cell line. A 70% reduction in the number of infectious rubella virions normally produced in MCF-7 cells occurred when the cells were stimulated with 17beta-estradiol. Analysis of virus-induced RNA indicated a delay in the conversion of replicative intermediate to virion RNA.", "PMID": 430601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_537", "title": "\"sarc\" sequence transcription in Moloney sarcoma virus-transformed nonproducer cell lines.", "content": "(3)H-labeled complementary DNA(sarc), complementary to the murine sarcoma virus (MSV)-specific portion of the Moloney MSV (M-MSV) genome, was prepared. M-MSV-specific RNA was then quantitated in the cytoplasm of several M-MSV-transformed, non-virus-producing, clonal NIH 3T3 cell lines. These lines, designated 71 N clones 5, 6, and 3, have been characterized previously by the degree to which they exhibit transformation properties and transcribe Moloney murine leukemia virus-related RNA (S. Salzberg and M. Green, J. Virol. 13:1001-1004, 1974; N. Tsuchida and M. Green, J. Virol. 14:587-591, 1974). By the criteria of cell morphology and agglutination by concanavalin A, cells of clone 5 are highly transformed, cells of clone 6 are almost normal in the sense that they resemble the parent NIH 3T3 cells, and cells of clone 3 are phenotypically intermediate. In the present study, the amounts of cytoplasmic MSV-specific RNA correlated well with the relative degrees of transformation of the cell lines, varying over 35-fold between the least transformed (clone 6) and most transformed (clone 5) lines. Superinfection of either clone 5 or clone 6 with Moloney murine leukemia virus resulted in a fivefold increase in the MSV-specific RNA in the cell cytoplasm. Evidence from (3)H-labeled complementary DNA:cell DNA hybridization studies indicated that the quantity of M-MSV-specific RNA in the nonproducer lines was not directly related to DNA provirus copy number in the cell DNA. Although clones 5 and 6 differ greatly in transformation characteristics and in MSV-specific RNA content, they each apparently contain about two copies of MSV-specific DNA sequence per haploid genome. Thus, factors such as site of provirus integration may be of primary importance in determining virus-specific transcription and cell transformation.", "contents": "\"sarc\" sequence transcription in Moloney sarcoma virus-transformed nonproducer cell lines. (3)H-labeled complementary DNA(sarc), complementary to the murine sarcoma virus (MSV)-specific portion of the Moloney MSV (M-MSV) genome, was prepared. M-MSV-specific RNA was then quantitated in the cytoplasm of several M-MSV-transformed, non-virus-producing, clonal NIH 3T3 cell lines. These lines, designated 71 N clones 5, 6, and 3, have been characterized previously by the degree to which they exhibit transformation properties and transcribe Moloney murine leukemia virus-related RNA (S. Salzberg and M. Green, J. Virol. 13:1001-1004, 1974; N. Tsuchida and M. Green, J. Virol. 14:587-591, 1974). By the criteria of cell morphology and agglutination by concanavalin A, cells of clone 5 are highly transformed, cells of clone 6 are almost normal in the sense that they resemble the parent NIH 3T3 cells, and cells of clone 3 are phenotypically intermediate. In the present study, the amounts of cytoplasmic MSV-specific RNA correlated well with the relative degrees of transformation of the cell lines, varying over 35-fold between the least transformed (clone 6) and most transformed (clone 5) lines. Superinfection of either clone 5 or clone 6 with Moloney murine leukemia virus resulted in a fivefold increase in the MSV-specific RNA in the cell cytoplasm. Evidence from (3)H-labeled complementary DNA:cell DNA hybridization studies indicated that the quantity of M-MSV-specific RNA in the nonproducer lines was not directly related to DNA provirus copy number in the cell DNA. Although clones 5 and 6 differ greatly in transformation characteristics and in MSV-specific RNA content, they each apparently contain about two copies of MSV-specific DNA sequence per haploid genome. Thus, factors such as site of provirus integration may be of primary importance in determining virus-specific transcription and cell transformation.", "PMID": 430602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_538", "title": "Recombination of bacteriophage phi X174 by the red function of bacteriophage lambda.", "content": "Recombination of bacteriophage phi X174 was effectively promoted when the Red function of lambda was supplied by either co-infection with lambda or induction of lambda lysogens. Mutations in red alpha and red beta genes of lambda abolished recombination nearly completely, whereas a mutation in gam gene reduced it only slightly. The Red-promoted recombination of phi X174 occurred in recA, recB, and polA mutants as well as in wild-type strains of Escherichia coli. It was further stimulated when phi X174 mutants were irradiated with UV light before infection.", "contents": "Recombination of bacteriophage phi X174 by the red function of bacteriophage lambda. Recombination of bacteriophage phi X174 was effectively promoted when the Red function of lambda was supplied by either co-infection with lambda or induction of lambda lysogens. Mutations in red alpha and red beta genes of lambda abolished recombination nearly completely, whereas a mutation in gam gene reduced it only slightly. The Red-promoted recombination of phi X174 occurred in recA, recB, and polA mutants as well as in wild-type strains of Escherichia coli. It was further stimulated when phi X174 mutants were irradiated with UV light before infection.", "PMID": 430603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_539", "title": "Autoregulation of adenovirus type 5 early gene expression. III. Transcription studies in isolated nuclei.", "content": "The rate of adenovirus RNA synthesis was compared in nuclei isolated from cells infected at 40.5 degrees C in the presence of 1-beta-d-arabinofuranosylcytosine with adenovirus 5 or an early temperature-sensitive mutant of adenovirus type 5, H5ts125 (ts125). In nuclei isolated at various times after infection, the maximum amount of virus RNA synthesis occurred at 6 h after infection, after which time virus RNA synthesis declined in nuclei from wild-type infections but remained high in nuclei from ts125 infections. At 12 h after infection, the amount of virus RNA synthesis was 8- to 11-fold higher in nuclei from ts125 infections than in nuclei from wild-type infections. However, the kinetics of virus RNA synthesis in nuclei isolated from both infections were similar. When a ts125-infected culture was shifted to 32 degrees C for 3 h (12 to 15 h after infection) before nucleus isolation, the amount of virus RNA synthesis in the isolated nuclei was reduced to nearly wild-type levels. A pulse-chase experiment showed little difference in degradation rates of virus RNA in isolated nuclei from wild-type and ts125 infections. Hybridization of RNA synthesized in vitro to restriction fragments of adenovirus type 5 DNA was consistent with early virus RNA. These results support the idea that the 72,000-dalton DNA-binding protein encoded by the mutant gene in ts125 can regulate early adenovirus gene expression by inhibiting initiation of transcription of the adenovirus genome.", "contents": "Autoregulation of adenovirus type 5 early gene expression. III. Transcription studies in isolated nuclei. The rate of adenovirus RNA synthesis was compared in nuclei isolated from cells infected at 40.5 degrees C in the presence of 1-beta-d-arabinofuranosylcytosine with adenovirus 5 or an early temperature-sensitive mutant of adenovirus type 5, H5ts125 (ts125). In nuclei isolated at various times after infection, the maximum amount of virus RNA synthesis occurred at 6 h after infection, after which time virus RNA synthesis declined in nuclei from wild-type infections but remained high in nuclei from ts125 infections. At 12 h after infection, the amount of virus RNA synthesis was 8- to 11-fold higher in nuclei from ts125 infections than in nuclei from wild-type infections. However, the kinetics of virus RNA synthesis in nuclei isolated from both infections were similar. When a ts125-infected culture was shifted to 32 degrees C for 3 h (12 to 15 h after infection) before nucleus isolation, the amount of virus RNA synthesis in the isolated nuclei was reduced to nearly wild-type levels. A pulse-chase experiment showed little difference in degradation rates of virus RNA in isolated nuclei from wild-type and ts125 infections. Hybridization of RNA synthesized in vitro to restriction fragments of adenovirus type 5 DNA was consistent with early virus RNA. These results support the idea that the 72,000-dalton DNA-binding protein encoded by the mutant gene in ts125 can regulate early adenovirus gene expression by inhibiting initiation of transcription of the adenovirus genome.", "PMID": 430604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_540", "title": "Carbohydrate structure of Sindbis virus glycoprotein E2 from virus grown in hamster and chicken cells.", "content": "Sindbis virus was used as a probe to examine glycosylation processes in two different species of cultured cells. Parallel studies were carried out analyzing the carbohydrate added to Sindbis glycoprotein E2 when the virus was grown in chicken embryo cells and BHK cells. The Pronase glycopeptides of Sindbis glycoprotein E2 were purified by a combination of ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. Four glycopeptides were resolved, ranging in molecular weight from 1,800 to 2,700. Structures are proposed for each of the four glycopeptides, based on data obtained by quantitative composition analyses, methylation analyses, and degradation of the glycopeptides using purified exo- and endoglycosidases. The largest three glycopeptides (S1, S2, and S3) have similar structures but differ in the extent of sialylation. All three contain N-acetylglucosamine, mannose, galactose, and fucose, in a structure similar to oligosaccharides found on other glycoproteins. Glycopeptide S1 has two residues of sialic acid, whereas glycopeptides S2 and S3 contain 1 and 0 residues of sialic acid, respectively. The smallest glycopeptide, S4, contains only N-acetyglucosamine and mannose, and is also similar to mannose-rich oligosaccharides found on other glycoproteins. Each of the complex glycopeptides (S1, S2, or S3) from virus grown in BHK cells is indistinguishable from the corresponding glycopeptides derived from virus grown in chicken cells. Glycopeptide S4 is also very similar in size, composition, and sugar linkages from virus derived from the two hosts. These results suggest that chicken cells and BHK cells have similar glycosylation mechanisms and glycosylate Sindbis glycoprotein E2 in nearly identical ways.", "contents": "Carbohydrate structure of Sindbis virus glycoprotein E2 from virus grown in hamster and chicken cells. Sindbis virus was used as a probe to examine glycosylation processes in two different species of cultured cells. Parallel studies were carried out analyzing the carbohydrate added to Sindbis glycoprotein E2 when the virus was grown in chicken embryo cells and BHK cells. The Pronase glycopeptides of Sindbis glycoprotein E2 were purified by a combination of ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. Four glycopeptides were resolved, ranging in molecular weight from 1,800 to 2,700. Structures are proposed for each of the four glycopeptides, based on data obtained by quantitative composition analyses, methylation analyses, and degradation of the glycopeptides using purified exo- and endoglycosidases. The largest three glycopeptides (S1, S2, and S3) have similar structures but differ in the extent of sialylation. All three contain N-acetylglucosamine, mannose, galactose, and fucose, in a structure similar to oligosaccharides found on other glycoproteins. Glycopeptide S1 has two residues of sialic acid, whereas glycopeptides S2 and S3 contain 1 and 0 residues of sialic acid, respectively. The smallest glycopeptide, S4, contains only N-acetyglucosamine and mannose, and is also similar to mannose-rich oligosaccharides found on other glycoproteins. Each of the complex glycopeptides (S1, S2, or S3) from virus grown in BHK cells is indistinguishable from the corresponding glycopeptides derived from virus grown in chicken cells. Glycopeptide S4 is also very similar in size, composition, and sugar linkages from virus derived from the two hosts. These results suggest that chicken cells and BHK cells have similar glycosylation mechanisms and glycosylate Sindbis glycoprotein E2 in nearly identical ways.", "PMID": 430605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_541", "title": "Interruption-deficient mutants of bacteriophage T5 I. Isolation and general properties.", "content": "Mutations of bacteriophage T5 were isolated which lack one or more of the natural single-chain interruptions that occur in the mature DNA of this virus. Interruption-deficient mutants were detected by screening survivors of hydroxylamine mutagenesis for altered DNA structure by electrophoresis in agarose slab gels. Over 60 independent mutants were isolated from a survey of approximately 800 phages particles. All of the mutants were viable and could be grouped into two classes. Mutants in one class lacked one of the localized sites where interruptions occur in T5 DNA. To date, mutants that affect five different sites have been obtained. Mutants in the other class were essentially free from interruptions or had a reduced frequency of interruptions throughout the genome. The members of this class included several amber mutants. Complementation tests indicated that at least two genes are required for the presence of interruptions in mature T5 DNA.", "contents": "Interruption-deficient mutants of bacteriophage T5 I. Isolation and general properties. Mutations of bacteriophage T5 were isolated which lack one or more of the natural single-chain interruptions that occur in the mature DNA of this virus. Interruption-deficient mutants were detected by screening survivors of hydroxylamine mutagenesis for altered DNA structure by electrophoresis in agarose slab gels. Over 60 independent mutants were isolated from a survey of approximately 800 phages particles. All of the mutants were viable and could be grouped into two classes. Mutants in one class lacked one of the localized sites where interruptions occur in T5 DNA. To date, mutants that affect five different sites have been obtained. Mutants in the other class were essentially free from interruptions or had a reduced frequency of interruptions throughout the genome. The members of this class included several amber mutants. Complementation tests indicated that at least two genes are required for the presence of interruptions in mature T5 DNA.", "PMID": 430606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_542", "title": "Interruption-deficient mutants of bacteriophage T5. II. Properties of a mutant lacking a specific interruption.", "content": "An examination was made of the properties of T5HA4, a mutant of bacteriophage T5 that lacks the single-chain interruption that occurs at 7.9% from the left end of the genome. The DNAs of T5HA4 and the wild type were compared by electrophoresis in agarose gels of both single-stranded fragments produced by denaturation and duplex fragments generated by sequential treatment with exonuclease III and SI nuclease. These studies demonstrated that T5HA4 also lacks an interruption that occurs at 99.6% in wild-type DNA. The interruptions at 7.9 and 99.6% therefore occur within the 8.3% of T5 DNA that is terminally repetitious. Evidence on the location of other interruptions within the terminal repetition was also obtained. Analysis of T5HA4 with a restriction endonuclease indicated that the interruption deficiency is not due to a deletion or addition mutation. The injection of T5HA4 DNA into a host bacterium was found to occur, as with the wild type, in a two-step manner. The interruption at 7.9% is therefore not required for stopping DNA transfer after the initial 8% segment has been injected.", "contents": "Interruption-deficient mutants of bacteriophage T5. II. Properties of a mutant lacking a specific interruption. An examination was made of the properties of T5HA4, a mutant of bacteriophage T5 that lacks the single-chain interruption that occurs at 7.9% from the left end of the genome. The DNAs of T5HA4 and the wild type were compared by electrophoresis in agarose gels of both single-stranded fragments produced by denaturation and duplex fragments generated by sequential treatment with exonuclease III and SI nuclease. These studies demonstrated that T5HA4 also lacks an interruption that occurs at 99.6% in wild-type DNA. The interruptions at 7.9 and 99.6% therefore occur within the 8.3% of T5 DNA that is terminally repetitious. Evidence on the location of other interruptions within the terminal repetition was also obtained. Analysis of T5HA4 with a restriction endonuclease indicated that the interruption deficiency is not due to a deletion or addition mutation. The injection of T5HA4 DNA into a host bacterium was found to occur, as with the wild type, in a two-step manner. The interruption at 7.9% is therefore not required for stopping DNA transfer after the initial 8% segment has been injected.", "PMID": 430607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_543", "title": "Structure of the murine leukemia virus envelope glycoprotein precursor.", "content": "The glycosylated env gene precurosr (Pr80env) of Moloney murine leukemia virus has been isolated by selective immunoprecipitation. Use of the drug tunicamycin to inhibit nascent glycosylation or specific cleavage with endoglycosidase H demonstrated that the precursor contained an apoprotein with a molecular weight of 60,000. The finished virion glycoprotein (gp70) was largely resistant to the action of endoglycosidase H. Chromatography of the glycopeptides of Pr80env in conjunction with endoglycosidase H digestion studies suggested that the precursor contained two distinct major glycosylation sites. Analysis of partial proteolytic cleavage fragments of Pr80env before and after endoglycosidase H treatment placed the two glycosylation sites within a 30,000-dalton region of the apoprotein sequence. Kinetic experiments showed that carbohydrate processing as well as proteolytic cleavage are late steps in the maturation of Pr80env.", "contents": "Structure of the murine leukemia virus envelope glycoprotein precursor. The glycosylated env gene precurosr (Pr80env) of Moloney murine leukemia virus has been isolated by selective immunoprecipitation. Use of the drug tunicamycin to inhibit nascent glycosylation or specific cleavage with endoglycosidase H demonstrated that the precursor contained an apoprotein with a molecular weight of 60,000. The finished virion glycoprotein (gp70) was largely resistant to the action of endoglycosidase H. Chromatography of the glycopeptides of Pr80env in conjunction with endoglycosidase H digestion studies suggested that the precursor contained two distinct major glycosylation sites. Analysis of partial proteolytic cleavage fragments of Pr80env before and after endoglycosidase H treatment placed the two glycosylation sites within a 30,000-dalton region of the apoprotein sequence. Kinetic experiments showed that carbohydrate processing as well as proteolytic cleavage are late steps in the maturation of Pr80env.", "PMID": 430608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_544", "title": "Nuclear accumulation of influenza viral RNA transcripts and the effects of cycloheximide, actinomycin D, and alpha-amanitin.", "content": "The use of virus-specific (32)P-labeled complementary DNA and (125)I-labeled virion RNA as hybridization probes has allowed us to quantitate the number of molecules of complementary RNA (cRNA) and progeny virion RNA in MDCK cells infected with influenza virus. We compared the distribution of cRNA between the nucleus and the cytoplasm in cycloheximide-treated cells to that found in untreated cells, beginning 1 h after infection. A greater percentage of the total cRNA was detected in the nucleus of the drug-treated cells at all times investigated. For the first 2 h after infection about 50% of the cRNA synthesized in the cycloheximide-treated cells was found in the nucleus. These nuclear cRNA molecules were characterized and shown to be polyadenylated transcripts of each of the genome virion RNA segments. Viral cRNA synthesis was not completely inhibited by the addition of actinomycin D at the beginning of infection, with or without the concomitant addition of cycloheximide. A large fraction (about 90%) of these cRNA sequences were detected in the nucleus. Characterization of these nuclear cRNA molecules showed that they contained polyadenylic acid and represented transcripts of both those segments coding for proteins synthesized predominantly early after infection (\"early\" proteins) and those virion RNA segments coding for \"late\" proteins. Also, in vitro translation of these cRNA molecules showed that they were functional virus mRNA's. In contrast to actinomycin D, alpha-amanitin completely inhibited cRNA synthesis when added at the beginning of infection, and addition of this drug after 1.5 h had no effect on further cRNA synthesis.", "contents": "Nuclear accumulation of influenza viral RNA transcripts and the effects of cycloheximide, actinomycin D, and alpha-amanitin. The use of virus-specific (32)P-labeled complementary DNA and (125)I-labeled virion RNA as hybridization probes has allowed us to quantitate the number of molecules of complementary RNA (cRNA) and progeny virion RNA in MDCK cells infected with influenza virus. We compared the distribution of cRNA between the nucleus and the cytoplasm in cycloheximide-treated cells to that found in untreated cells, beginning 1 h after infection. A greater percentage of the total cRNA was detected in the nucleus of the drug-treated cells at all times investigated. For the first 2 h after infection about 50% of the cRNA synthesized in the cycloheximide-treated cells was found in the nucleus. These nuclear cRNA molecules were characterized and shown to be polyadenylated transcripts of each of the genome virion RNA segments. Viral cRNA synthesis was not completely inhibited by the addition of actinomycin D at the beginning of infection, with or without the concomitant addition of cycloheximide. A large fraction (about 90%) of these cRNA sequences were detected in the nucleus. Characterization of these nuclear cRNA molecules showed that they contained polyadenylic acid and represented transcripts of both those segments coding for proteins synthesized predominantly early after infection (\"early\" proteins) and those virion RNA segments coding for \"late\" proteins. Also, in vitro translation of these cRNA molecules showed that they were functional virus mRNA's. In contrast to actinomycin D, alpha-amanitin completely inhibited cRNA synthesis when added at the beginning of infection, and addition of this drug after 1.5 h had no effect on further cRNA synthesis.", "PMID": 430609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_545", "title": "Novel bacteriophage lambda mutation affecting lambda head assembly.", "content": "A novel phage lambda mutation, called dc10, which interferes with proper lambda head assembly has been isolated and characterized. Phage lambda carrying this mutation is (i) unable to form plaques at 30 or 37 degrees C but does so at 42 degrees C and (ii) unable to form plaques at 42 degrees C on pN-constitutive hosts. Both properties are due to dc10 since all phage revertants for one phenotype simultaneously lose the other phenotype and vice versa. The dc10 mutation has been mapped in the B gene and has been shown to be dominant over the corresponding wild-type product. At 30 degrees C the dc10 mutation results in the formation of abnormal petit lambda heads made up of pE, pB, pC, and pNu3. Under pN-constitutive conditions, the dc10 mutation results in the formation of abnormal petit lambda heads made of pE, X1, and X2 only. A model to explain the data is presented.", "contents": "Novel bacteriophage lambda mutation affecting lambda head assembly. A novel phage lambda mutation, called dc10, which interferes with proper lambda head assembly has been isolated and characterized. Phage lambda carrying this mutation is (i) unable to form plaques at 30 or 37 degrees C but does so at 42 degrees C and (ii) unable to form plaques at 42 degrees C on pN-constitutive hosts. Both properties are due to dc10 since all phage revertants for one phenotype simultaneously lose the other phenotype and vice versa. The dc10 mutation has been mapped in the B gene and has been shown to be dominant over the corresponding wild-type product. At 30 degrees C the dc10 mutation results in the formation of abnormal petit lambda heads made up of pE, pB, pC, and pNu3. Under pN-constitutive conditions, the dc10 mutation results in the formation of abnormal petit lambda heads made of pE, X1, and X2 only. A model to explain the data is presented.", "PMID": 430610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_546", "title": "Oligonucleotide mapping studies of standard and defective Sindbis virus RNA.", "content": "Oligonucleotide mapping studies of the RNA from standard and defective interfering particles of Sindbis virus demonstrate that 3'- and 5'-terminal regions of the genome are conserved in the defective RNAs. These studies also suggest that defective RNAs contain multiple deletions.", "contents": "Oligonucleotide mapping studies of standard and defective Sindbis virus RNA. Oligonucleotide mapping studies of the RNA from standard and defective interfering particles of Sindbis virus demonstrate that 3'- and 5'-terminal regions of the genome are conserved in the defective RNAs. These studies also suggest that defective RNAs contain multiple deletions.", "PMID": 430611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_547", "title": "Quantitative measurement of intracellular RNA genomes of Rauscher murine leukemia virus by competition hybridization in DNA excess.", "content": "The technique of competition hybridization in DNA excess was used to determine the intracellular distribution of RNA genomes of Rauscher murine leukemia virus. An examination of subcellular RNA fractions revealed that 59% of intracellular viral RNA genomes were associated with the nuclear-enriched fraction, 41% with the cytoplasmic fraction, and 18% with the polysomal-enriched fraction. Also, an analysis of total cellular RNA disclosed that 20% of intracellular viral RNA genomes were polyadenylated and 80% were not polyadenylated.", "contents": "Quantitative measurement of intracellular RNA genomes of Rauscher murine leukemia virus by competition hybridization in DNA excess. The technique of competition hybridization in DNA excess was used to determine the intracellular distribution of RNA genomes of Rauscher murine leukemia virus. An examination of subcellular RNA fractions revealed that 59% of intracellular viral RNA genomes were associated with the nuclear-enriched fraction, 41% with the cytoplasmic fraction, and 18% with the polysomal-enriched fraction. Also, an analysis of total cellular RNA disclosed that 20% of intracellular viral RNA genomes were polyadenylated and 80% were not polyadenylated.", "PMID": 430612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_548", "title": "Parental adenovirus type 2 genomes recovered early or late in infection possess terminal proteins.", "content": "At both early (3 h) and late (18 h) times after infection of KB cells with adenovirus 2, more than 90% of parental nuclear viral genomes exist as complexes which contain terminally linked proteins. Density shift experiments employing 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine indicate that these parental DNA molecules remain complexed with terminal proteins after DNA replication. The persistent linkage of proteins to the termini of intranuclear viral DNA suggests that these proteins have an essential role in adenovirus replication.", "contents": "Parental adenovirus type 2 genomes recovered early or late in infection possess terminal proteins. At both early (3 h) and late (18 h) times after infection of KB cells with adenovirus 2, more than 90% of parental nuclear viral genomes exist as complexes which contain terminally linked proteins. Density shift experiments employing 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine indicate that these parental DNA molecules remain complexed with terminal proteins after DNA replication. The persistent linkage of proteins to the termini of intranuclear viral DNA suggests that these proteins have an essential role in adenovirus replication.", "PMID": 430613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_549", "title": "A new embryologic classification for uro-gynecologic malformations: the syndromes of mesonephric duct induced m\u00fcllerian deformities.", "content": "A new embryologic classification is proposed to explain the association of unilateral renal agenesis with abnormalities of the female reproductive tract. An awareness of the syndrome of combined m\u00fcllerian and mesonephric duct abnormalities may permit accurate anatomic diagnosis and spare patients needless surgical exploration.", "contents": "A new embryologic classification for uro-gynecologic malformations: the syndromes of mesonephric duct induced m\u00fcllerian deformities. A new embryologic classification is proposed to explain the association of unilateral renal agenesis with abnormalities of the female reproductive tract. An awareness of the syndrome of combined m\u00fcllerian and mesonephric duct abnormalities may permit accurate anatomic diagnosis and spare patients needless surgical exploration.", "PMID": 430615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_550", "title": "Stent versus nephrostomy: is there a choice?", "content": "When temporary or palliative urinary diversion is necessary the Gibbons ureteral stent has reduced markedly the need for nephrostomy. Of 48 patients 41 (85 per cent) had successful insertion of stents. Only 1 of these patients had to undergo nephrostomy at a later date. Complications have been minimal and the patients' tolerance has been excellent.", "contents": "Stent versus nephrostomy: is there a choice? When temporary or palliative urinary diversion is necessary the Gibbons ureteral stent has reduced markedly the need for nephrostomy. Of 48 patients 41 (85 per cent) had successful insertion of stents. Only 1 of these patients had to undergo nephrostomy at a later date. Complications have been minimal and the patients' tolerance has been excellent.", "PMID": 430616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_551", "title": "Retroperitoneal drainage of ureterointestinal conduits.", "content": "Records of 132 patients undergoing ileal or colonic conduit urinary diversion were reviewed. Drains were placed retroperitoneally in all cases. Urinary leakage occurred most frequently in patients with malignancies and was associated with previous pelvic irradiation or simultaneous cystectomy. Most leaks closed spontaneously with non-operative management.", "contents": "Retroperitoneal drainage of ureterointestinal conduits. Records of 132 patients undergoing ileal or colonic conduit urinary diversion were reviewed. Drains were placed retroperitoneally in all cases. Urinary leakage occurred most frequently in patients with malignancies and was associated with previous pelvic irradiation or simultaneous cystectomy. Most leaks closed spontaneously with non-operative management.", "PMID": 430617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_552", "title": "Primary non-urachal adenocarcinoma of the bladder.", "content": "The clinical course of 34 patients with non-urachal adenocarcinoma of the bladder was reviewed and compared to the world experience. The 5-year survivorship was 19 per cent, with only 1 patient being free of disease. Metaplasia with formation of glandular elements reflects the unstable potential of the transitional cell and may be associated with the biologic aggressiveness of the tumor.", "contents": "Primary non-urachal adenocarcinoma of the bladder. The clinical course of 34 patients with non-urachal adenocarcinoma of the bladder was reviewed and compared to the world experience. The 5-year survivorship was 19 per cent, with only 1 patient being free of disease. Metaplasia with formation of glandular elements reflects the unstable potential of the transitional cell and may be associated with the biologic aggressiveness of the tumor.", "PMID": 430618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_553", "title": "Transurethral laser urethrotomy in man: preliminary report.", "content": "After in vitro and in vivo endoscopic laser investigation on normal and experimentally strictured urethras in dogs transurethral laser urethrotomy was done on men. A neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet laser with a flexible laser light guide was used. The endoscope developed for this purpose is described in detail. The first laser operations were without complications.", "contents": "Transurethral laser urethrotomy in man: preliminary report. After in vitro and in vivo endoscopic laser investigation on normal and experimentally strictured urethras in dogs transurethral laser urethrotomy was done on men. A neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet laser with a flexible laser light guide was used. The endoscope developed for this purpose is described in detail. The first laser operations were without complications.", "PMID": 430619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_554", "title": "Experience with penile prosthesis in spinal cord injury patients.", "content": "During the last 2 years 30 patients in the spinal cord injury service at our hospital received a penile prosthesis implant. The records of 25 patients were reviewed and 20 patients were interviewed 3 to 27 months postoperatively. A detailed evaluation of each patient shows that in properly selected patients the results of this operation can be satisfactory and gratifying.", "contents": "Experience with penile prosthesis in spinal cord injury patients. During the last 2 years 30 patients in the spinal cord injury service at our hospital received a penile prosthesis implant. The records of 25 patients were reviewed and 20 patients were interviewed 3 to 27 months postoperatively. A detailed evaluation of each patient shows that in properly selected patients the results of this operation can be satisfactory and gratifying.", "PMID": 430620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_555", "title": "Prostatic secretion leukocyte studies in non-bacterial prostatitis (prostatosis).", "content": "Non-bacterial prostatitis is a common affliction among men and lacks objective criteria for clear identification. We studied 43 consecutive patients and 20 normal controls for the presence of bacteria and quantitation of prostatic secretion leukocytes. Significantly greater numbers of macrophages per volume of prostatic secretion were found in the patients. Multiple observations of such increased leukocyte proliferation could be used to establish true prostatic inflammation.", "contents": "Prostatic secretion leukocyte studies in non-bacterial prostatitis (prostatosis). Non-bacterial prostatitis is a common affliction among men and lacks objective criteria for clear identification. We studied 43 consecutive patients and 20 normal controls for the presence of bacteria and quantitation of prostatic secretion leukocytes. Significantly greater numbers of macrophages per volume of prostatic secretion were found in the patients. Multiple observations of such increased leukocyte proliferation could be used to establish true prostatic inflammation.", "PMID": 430621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_556", "title": "The impact of current staging procedures in assessing disease extent of prostatic adenocarcinoma.", "content": "We studied 454 patients with prostatic adenocarcinoma who were assigned a preliminary clinical stage on the basis of serum acid phosphatase, routine bone survey and physical examination. Subsequently, they were assigned a final clinical stage after radioisotopic bone scanning, lymphangiography and staging pelvic lymph node dissection. Only 53, 54, 57 and 26 per cent, respectively, of patients initially assigned the preliminary clinical stage of IB, II, III or IVA remained at that stage after the additional studies.", "contents": "The impact of current staging procedures in assessing disease extent of prostatic adenocarcinoma. We studied 454 patients with prostatic adenocarcinoma who were assigned a preliminary clinical stage on the basis of serum acid phosphatase, routine bone survey and physical examination. Subsequently, they were assigned a final clinical stage after radioisotopic bone scanning, lymphangiography and staging pelvic lymph node dissection. Only 53, 54, 57 and 26 per cent, respectively, of patients initially assigned the preliminary clinical stage of IB, II, III or IVA remained at that stage after the additional studies.", "PMID": 430622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_557", "title": "Results of biopsy after early stage prostatic cancer treatment by implantation of 125I seeds.", "content": "We have treated 77 patients for clinically early stage carcinoma of the prostate, 9 stage A2, 63 stage B and 5 stage C, with direct implantation of 125I seeds into the prostate and pelvic lymphadenectomy. It is estimated that a minimum dose of 15,000 rad but a maximum dose of 35,000 rad is delivered to the prostate over several months. Of the 77 patients 14 (18 per cent) had metastatic disease in the pelvic lymph nodes. In 22 cases perineal needle biopsy was done 12 to 18 months after treatment and in 3 cases a second biopsy was performed after 2 to 3 years. Persistent tumor was present in 11 biopsies. Cytological changes were observed in 8 of these, primarily cytoplasmic vacuolation and nuclear pyknosis. There seemed to be no relationship between grade and stage of disease and histological evidence of persistence of tumor after radiation. One patient with persistent tumor in the postoperative biopsy has shown progression of disease after 2 years and another with a negative biopsy has a bony metastasis. The remaining 10 patients with persistent tumor have shown no sign of progression of disease during a 2 to 4-year interval.", "contents": "Results of biopsy after early stage prostatic cancer treatment by implantation of 125I seeds. We have treated 77 patients for clinically early stage carcinoma of the prostate, 9 stage A2, 63 stage B and 5 stage C, with direct implantation of 125I seeds into the prostate and pelvic lymphadenectomy. It is estimated that a minimum dose of 15,000 rad but a maximum dose of 35,000 rad is delivered to the prostate over several months. Of the 77 patients 14 (18 per cent) had metastatic disease in the pelvic lymph nodes. In 22 cases perineal needle biopsy was done 12 to 18 months after treatment and in 3 cases a second biopsy was performed after 2 to 3 years. Persistent tumor was present in 11 biopsies. Cytological changes were observed in 8 of these, primarily cytoplasmic vacuolation and nuclear pyknosis. There seemed to be no relationship between grade and stage of disease and histological evidence of persistence of tumor after radiation. One patient with persistent tumor in the postoperative biopsy has shown progression of disease after 2 years and another with a negative biopsy has a bony metastasis. The remaining 10 patients with persistent tumor have shown no sign of progression of disease during a 2 to 4-year interval.", "PMID": 430623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_558", "title": "Spontaneous remission of chyluria.", "content": "The natural history of chyluria is not well known. We have followed 72 patients with chyluria who have not had treatment and the condition has disappeared in 36 cases (50 per cent). In these cases the duration of chyluria varied from 3 days to 20 years, with an average of 44.3 months, but it was less than 6 months in about half of the cases.", "contents": "Spontaneous remission of chyluria. The natural history of chyluria is not well known. We have followed 72 patients with chyluria who have not had treatment and the condition has disappeared in 36 cases (50 per cent). In these cases the duration of chyluria varied from 3 days to 20 years, with an average of 44.3 months, but it was less than 6 months in about half of the cases.", "PMID": 430624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_559", "title": "Weather and the incidence of urinary stone colic.", "content": "There were 204 patients in one specific district with renal colic who were studied to determine the relationship of the condition to climatic conditions. It was found that stones were prone to cause colic on warm days when air pressure was falling.", "contents": "Weather and the incidence of urinary stone colic. There were 204 patients in one specific district with renal colic who were studied to determine the relationship of the condition to climatic conditions. It was found that stones were prone to cause colic on warm days when air pressure was falling.", "PMID": 430625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_560", "title": "Ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy in the pediatric patient.", "content": "Percutaneous nephrostomy drainage may be established rapidly using ultrasonic guidance in severely ill pediatric patients with obstructive uropathy. B-mode ultrasonography has proved to be rapid, accurate and free of irradiation hazards, making it applicable to children with little or no sedation.", "contents": "Ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy in the pediatric patient. Percutaneous nephrostomy drainage may be established rapidly using ultrasonic guidance in severely ill pediatric patients with obstructive uropathy. B-mode ultrasonography has proved to be rapid, accurate and free of irradiation hazards, making it applicable to children with little or no sedation.", "PMID": 430627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_561", "title": "Salvaging the iatrogenic megaureter.", "content": "From 1965 through 1975 we treated 30 children with 44 megaureters that were acquired after the reimplantation of normal caliber ureters. One-third of these children had had at least 2 prior surgical procedures on the bladder and 30 per cent were azotemic. There was no difference in the salvage rate of acquired megaureters with reflux versus obstruction. Temporary proximal diversion often was useful in the short-term management. Only 70 per cent of the patients completed reconstruction and only 70 per cent of those reconstructed were successful by all parameters. Ureteral tailoring was generally a necessary adjunct to successful repeat reimplantation. There was a significantly lesser salvage rate in those ureters that had had more than 1 prior surgical procedure. The best results were obtained when all surgical maneuvers were done transvesically because there was a significant incidence of acquired atonic vesical dysfunction after repeated dissections in the perivesical area.", "contents": "Salvaging the iatrogenic megaureter. From 1965 through 1975 we treated 30 children with 44 megaureters that were acquired after the reimplantation of normal caliber ureters. One-third of these children had had at least 2 prior surgical procedures on the bladder and 30 per cent were azotemic. There was no difference in the salvage rate of acquired megaureters with reflux versus obstruction. Temporary proximal diversion often was useful in the short-term management. Only 70 per cent of the patients completed reconstruction and only 70 per cent of those reconstructed were successful by all parameters. Ureteral tailoring was generally a necessary adjunct to successful repeat reimplantation. There was a significantly lesser salvage rate in those ureters that had had more than 1 prior surgical procedure. The best results were obtained when all surgical maneuvers were done transvesically because there was a significant incidence of acquired atonic vesical dysfunction after repeated dissections in the perivesical area.", "PMID": 430628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_562", "title": "Hypothermia during infant cystoscopy.", "content": "Two cases of hypothermia during prolonged infancy cystoscopy are reported. A significant decrease in the core temperature also was noted when irrigating the bladders of small mongrel dogs with room temperature water. The complications of infant hypothermia are reviewed and the factors that predispose the infant to acute changes in body temperature are emphasized. The measures of maintaining the core temperature in the pediatric surgical patient are discussed and particular situations when prolonged cystoscopy may occur, necessitating warming of irrigation fluids, are presented.", "contents": "Hypothermia during infant cystoscopy. Two cases of hypothermia during prolonged infancy cystoscopy are reported. A significant decrease in the core temperature also was noted when irrigating the bladders of small mongrel dogs with room temperature water. The complications of infant hypothermia are reviewed and the factors that predispose the infant to acute changes in body temperature are emphasized. The measures of maintaining the core temperature in the pediatric surgical patient are discussed and particular situations when prolonged cystoscopy may occur, necessitating warming of irrigation fluids, are presented.", "PMID": 430629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_563", "title": "Cecil urethroplasty with concurrent scrotoplasty for repair of hypospadias.", "content": "During 13 years about 8 per cent of 234 patients operated upon for hypospadias presented surgical problems of reconstruction of the urethra from the urethral meatus proximal to the penoscrotal junction. These cases commonly are referred to as perineal or penoscrotal hypospadias. The problem occurs when the urethral groove fails to develop adequately and the scrotal folds have failed to rotate caudally. This hypospadias is in contrast to penoscrotal or distal hypospadias, when the urethral groove is developed but fusion is incomplete. In these patients the Cecil procedure has been used but modified to extend the urethra from behind the penoscrotal junction to the glans at the second stage of the urethroplasty. The modification consists of rotating the scrotum caudally from its high location. The tension and acute angulation that contributed to frequent complications previously associated with such attempts have been avoided and results are satisfactory.", "contents": "Cecil urethroplasty with concurrent scrotoplasty for repair of hypospadias. During 13 years about 8 per cent of 234 patients operated upon for hypospadias presented surgical problems of reconstruction of the urethra from the urethral meatus proximal to the penoscrotal junction. These cases commonly are referred to as perineal or penoscrotal hypospadias. The problem occurs when the urethral groove fails to develop adequately and the scrotal folds have failed to rotate caudally. This hypospadias is in contrast to penoscrotal or distal hypospadias, when the urethral groove is developed but fusion is incomplete. In these patients the Cecil procedure has been used but modified to extend the urethra from behind the penoscrotal junction to the glans at the second stage of the urethroplasty. The modification consists of rotating the scrotum caudally from its high location. The tension and acute angulation that contributed to frequent complications previously associated with such attempts have been avoided and results are satisfactory.", "PMID": 430630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_564", "title": "Delayed development of the scrotum in exstrophy.", "content": "Early attempts at orchiopexy should be avoided in children with exstrophy, since the testes will often descend spontaneously by puberty. In many cases the scrotum will grow much larger and will become pendulous by puberty. In a patient with a rudimentary scrotum orchiopexy will only result in fixing the testes in an abnormally high position owing to the lack of a sac into which to place them. If the scrotum develops later the testicles will probably be unable to descend further. Scrotal skin should not be used for urethroplasty operations in children with exstrophy and special techniques should be applied if it is necessary to repair hernias in these patients. In the child with partially descended testes but with only a small patch of wrinkled scrotum efforts may be undertaken to increase scrotal size by topical hormone treatment (or by injections) before the onset of puberty to help fertility and emotional development.", "contents": "Delayed development of the scrotum in exstrophy. Early attempts at orchiopexy should be avoided in children with exstrophy, since the testes will often descend spontaneously by puberty. In many cases the scrotum will grow much larger and will become pendulous by puberty. In a patient with a rudimentary scrotum orchiopexy will only result in fixing the testes in an abnormally high position owing to the lack of a sac into which to place them. If the scrotum develops later the testicles will probably be unable to descend further. Scrotal skin should not be used for urethroplasty operations in children with exstrophy and special techniques should be applied if it is necessary to repair hernias in these patients. In the child with partially descended testes but with only a small patch of wrinkled scrotum efforts may be undertaken to increase scrotal size by topical hormone treatment (or by injections) before the onset of puberty to help fertility and emotional development.", "PMID": 430631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_565", "title": "Mixed gonadal dysgenesis.", "content": "Mixed gonadal dysgenesis is an intersex syndrome characterized by a unilateral streak gonad, persistent m\u00fcllerian duct structures and ambiguous genitalia. These patients are chromatin negative and exhibit XO/XY mosaicism. The disorder probably results from a cytogenetic error that occurs early in embryogenesis. These patients usually are reared as female subjects but masculinity begins at puberty because of the qualitatively and quantitatively normal testicular androgenic function. The patients are diagnosed on the basis of a Y chromosomal component and the presence of a unilateral testis and contralateral streak gonad at the time of exploratory laparotomy. The testis and the streak gonad should be removed because of the potential development of a gonadoblastoma and the virilization that occurs at puberty.", "contents": "Mixed gonadal dysgenesis. Mixed gonadal dysgenesis is an intersex syndrome characterized by a unilateral streak gonad, persistent m\u00fcllerian duct structures and ambiguous genitalia. These patients are chromatin negative and exhibit XO/XY mosaicism. The disorder probably results from a cytogenetic error that occurs early in embryogenesis. These patients usually are reared as female subjects but masculinity begins at puberty because of the qualitatively and quantitatively normal testicular androgenic function. The patients are diagnosed on the basis of a Y chromosomal component and the presence of a unilateral testis and contralateral streak gonad at the time of exploratory laparotomy. The testis and the streak gonad should be removed because of the potential development of a gonadoblastoma and the virilization that occurs at puberty.", "PMID": 430632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_566", "title": "Ectopic adrenal in inguinal hernia sacs.", "content": "Nodules of the ectopic adrenal cortex were identified in hernia sacs in 5 men. This condition seems to result from developing adrenal cortical tissue accompanying a descending testis. Ectopic adrenal must be distinguished from metastatic clear cell carcinoma. Such ectopic foci could potentially result in neoplasms or be a source of hormone production after adrenalectomy.", "contents": "Ectopic adrenal in inguinal hernia sacs. Nodules of the ectopic adrenal cortex were identified in hernia sacs in 5 men. This condition seems to result from developing adrenal cortical tissue accompanying a descending testis. Ectopic adrenal must be distinguished from metastatic clear cell carcinoma. Such ectopic foci could potentially result in neoplasms or be a source of hormone production after adrenalectomy.", "PMID": 430634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_567", "title": "Percutaneous U-loop nephrostomy.", "content": "Single-tube nephrostomy drainage can be converted to U-loop drainage using percutaneous methods. Because only local anesthesia is required the technique can be used for patients who are poor operative risks.", "contents": "Percutaneous U-loop nephrostomy. Single-tube nephrostomy drainage can be converted to U-loop drainage using percutaneous methods. Because only local anesthesia is required the technique can be used for patients who are poor operative risks.", "PMID": 430635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_568", "title": "Traumatic caliceal-parenchymal disruption.", "content": "A unique case is described of traumatic disruption of an intact collecting system (calices, renal pelvis and ureter) from an intact kidney. Evidence is presented for a congenital weakness at the level of disruption.", "contents": "Traumatic caliceal-parenchymal disruption. A unique case is described of traumatic disruption of an intact collecting system (calices, renal pelvis and ureter) from an intact kidney. Evidence is presented for a congenital weakness at the level of disruption.", "PMID": 430636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_569", "title": "Chemotherapy of advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis: report of 3 cases treated with vinblastine and chloroethyl-cyclohexyl-nitrosourea.", "content": "Three patients with advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis were treated with 5 mg./m.2 body surface vinblastine intravenously weekly and 130 mg./m.2 chloroethyl-cyclohexyl-nitrosourea orally with 6-week intervals. One patient had a partial remission for 1.5 months and 2 had stationary disease for 6 and 2 months.", "contents": "Chemotherapy of advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis: report of 3 cases treated with vinblastine and chloroethyl-cyclohexyl-nitrosourea. Three patients with advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis were treated with 5 mg./m.2 body surface vinblastine intravenously weekly and 130 mg./m.2 chloroethyl-cyclohexyl-nitrosourea orally with 6-week intervals. One patient had a partial remission for 1.5 months and 2 had stationary disease for 6 and 2 months.", "PMID": 430637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_570", "title": "Ectopic single ureter and severe renal dysplasia: an unusual presentation.", "content": "An ectopic single ureter in the male subject is a rare anomaly, which commonly drains a dysplastic kidney to the prostatic urethra or the seminal vesicle. The further the ureteral orifice is located from the trigone of the bladder, the more severe is the ipsilateral renal dysplasia. A case is described in which an ectopic ureter and ectopic and dysplastic kidney were found at the time of inguinal herniorrhaphy. The ureter was connected to the epididymis of the testicle. This is the most severe form of ureteral ectopia and it has not been reported previously.", "contents": "Ectopic single ureter and severe renal dysplasia: an unusual presentation. An ectopic single ureter in the male subject is a rare anomaly, which commonly drains a dysplastic kidney to the prostatic urethra or the seminal vesicle. The further the ureteral orifice is located from the trigone of the bladder, the more severe is the ipsilateral renal dysplasia. A case is described in which an ectopic ureter and ectopic and dysplastic kidney were found at the time of inguinal herniorrhaphy. The ureter was connected to the epididymis of the testicle. This is the most severe form of ureteral ectopia and it has not been reported previously.", "PMID": 430638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_571", "title": "Leiomyoma of the female urethra.", "content": "Leiomyoma of the urethra is a rare condition, which is more common in female than in male subjects. There are only 14 documented cases of leiomyoma of the female urethra in the literature. A careful analysis of these cases revealed the average patient age to be 34.1 years. The site of the lesion determined the clinical features and the surgical approach. No common etiological factor could be ascertained. Two additional cases of leiomyoma of the female urethra are reported.", "contents": "Leiomyoma of the female urethra. Leiomyoma of the urethra is a rare condition, which is more common in female than in male subjects. There are only 14 documented cases of leiomyoma of the female urethra in the literature. A careful analysis of these cases revealed the average patient age to be 34.1 years. The site of the lesion determined the clinical features and the surgical approach. No common etiological factor could be ascertained. Two additional cases of leiomyoma of the female urethra are reported.", "PMID": 430639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_572", "title": "Non-neoplastic cystic lesions of the tunica albuginea: an electron microscopic and clinical study of 2 cases.", "content": "Cystic lesions of the tunica albuginea are rare and of uncertain histogenesis, and may present diagnostic difficulties. Recently, we encountered 2 such lesions that we were able to study by electron microscopy. We report the cases and present the electron microscopic observations that suggest the histogenesis of these lesions.", "contents": "Non-neoplastic cystic lesions of the tunica albuginea: an electron microscopic and clinical study of 2 cases. Cystic lesions of the tunica albuginea are rare and of uncertain histogenesis, and may present diagnostic difficulties. Recently, we encountered 2 such lesions that we were able to study by electron microscopy. We report the cases and present the electron microscopic observations that suggest the histogenesis of these lesions.", "PMID": 430640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_573", "title": "Malignant paraganglioma of the prostate and retroperitoneum.", "content": "A case of malignant paraganglioma of the prostate, metastatic to the retroperitoneal area, is reported. The literature is reviewed and the possible origin of the disease is discussed. We believe that this is the first report of this entity of prostatic origin.", "contents": "Malignant paraganglioma of the prostate and retroperitoneum. A case of malignant paraganglioma of the prostate, metastatic to the retroperitoneal area, is reported. The literature is reviewed and the possible origin of the disease is discussed. We believe that this is the first report of this entity of prostatic origin.", "PMID": 430641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_574", "title": "Anterior bladder tube flap reconstruction of the urethrovesical neck after radical retropubic prostatectomy.", "content": "Difficulty with urethrovesical neck anastomosis after radical retropubic prostatectomy led us to form an anterior bladder tube flap for anastomosis to the transected urethra in 5 selected cases. We found that combining the anterior bladder tube flap technique with radical retropubic prostatectomy facilitates the urethrovesical neck anastomosis and improves the transient postoperative incontinence sometimes encountered. Results of the 5 patients in whom this technique was used form the basis for a brief discussion of the technique.", "contents": "Anterior bladder tube flap reconstruction of the urethrovesical neck after radical retropubic prostatectomy. Difficulty with urethrovesical neck anastomosis after radical retropubic prostatectomy led us to form an anterior bladder tube flap for anastomosis to the transected urethra in 5 selected cases. We found that combining the anterior bladder tube flap technique with radical retropubic prostatectomy facilitates the urethrovesical neck anastomosis and improves the transient postoperative incontinence sometimes encountered. Results of the 5 patients in whom this technique was used form the basis for a brief discussion of the technique.", "PMID": 430642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_575", "title": "Postvaccine era measles epidemiology.", "content": "Measles incidence in the United States was calculated from estimates of the United States Immunization Survey for the years 1965 to 1975. These data were examined according to birth cohorts and cross-sectionally by age to determine the effect of live measles virus vaccine on measles epidemiology. The results showed a high rate of infection for children aged 1 year, followed by a decrease in the infection rates for preschool children, with rates increasing agin at ages 5 and 6 years. It was hypothesized that an effective vaccine-induced herb immunity exists in preschool children until they are of school age. When incidence rates were based on susceptible children, the highest rates occurred in the school-aged populations.", "contents": "Postvaccine era measles epidemiology. Measles incidence in the United States was calculated from estimates of the United States Immunization Survey for the years 1965 to 1975. These data were examined according to birth cohorts and cross-sectionally by age to determine the effect of live measles virus vaccine on measles epidemiology. The results showed a high rate of infection for children aged 1 year, followed by a decrease in the infection rates for preschool children, with rates increasing agin at ages 5 and 6 years. It was hypothesized that an effective vaccine-induced herb immunity exists in preschool children until they are of school age. When incidence rates were based on susceptible children, the highest rates occurred in the school-aged populations.", "PMID": 430684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_576", "title": "The National Football Head and Neck Injury Registry. Report and conclusions 1978.", "content": "The National Football Head and Neck Injury Registry has documented 1,129 injuries since 1971 that involved hospitalization for more than 72 hours, surgical intervention, fracture-dislocation, permanent paralysis, or death. Of this group of injuries, 550 were fracture-dislocations of the cervical spine, of which 176 were associated with permanent quadriplegia. It appears that during the last two decades, there has been a decrease in the incidence of direct fatalities, head injuries associated with intracranial hemorrhage, and injuries associated with death. Conversely, cervical spine injuries with fracture-dislocation and with permanent quadriplegia have increased. We believe that these observations are the result of the development of a protective helmet-face mask system that has effectively protected the head, and by so doing has allowed it to be used as a battering ram in tackling and blocking techniques, thus placing the cervical spine at risk of injury.", "contents": "The National Football Head and Neck Injury Registry. Report and conclusions 1978. The National Football Head and Neck Injury Registry has documented 1,129 injuries since 1971 that involved hospitalization for more than 72 hours, surgical intervention, fracture-dislocation, permanent paralysis, or death. Of this group of injuries, 550 were fracture-dislocations of the cervical spine, of which 176 were associated with permanent quadriplegia. It appears that during the last two decades, there has been a decrease in the incidence of direct fatalities, head injuries associated with intracranial hemorrhage, and injuries associated with death. Conversely, cervical spine injuries with fracture-dislocation and with permanent quadriplegia have increased. We believe that these observations are the result of the development of a protective helmet-face mask system that has effectively protected the head, and by so doing has allowed it to be used as a battering ram in tackling and blocking techniques, thus placing the cervical spine at risk of injury.", "PMID": 430685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_577", "title": "Upper trunk brachial plexopathy in football players.", "content": "Ten football players seen from 1973 through 1977 at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals were found to have clinical and electrodiagnostic evidence of injury to the upper trunk of the brachial plexus. Each had upper limb paresis following one or more blows to the head or shoulders. The development of persistent weakness often was preceded by burning paresthesias in the upper limb. Our experience suggests that the syndrome of burning paresthesias and subsequent arm weakness frequently is secondary to stretching of the brachial plexus.", "contents": "Upper trunk brachial plexopathy in football players. Ten football players seen from 1973 through 1977 at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals were found to have clinical and electrodiagnostic evidence of injury to the upper trunk of the brachial plexus. Each had upper limb paresis following one or more blows to the head or shoulders. The development of persistent weakness often was preceded by burning paresthesias in the upper limb. Our experience suggests that the syndrome of burning paresthesias and subsequent arm weakness frequently is secondary to stretching of the brachial plexus.", "PMID": 430686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_578", "title": "Satisfactions, dissatisfactions, and causes of stress in medical practice.", "content": "Careers of physicians who graduated from Case Western Reserve School of Medicine have been examined in several longitudinal career studies. Physicians have been interviewed in their own offices, have filled out short-answer questionnaires, and have taken four tests. Emphasis has been placed on factors that have made their medical careers particularly satisfying or dissatisfying. Physicians report many satisfactions that evolve around helping patients, solving problems, and developing relationships with patients and their families. A major dissatisfaction relates to time pressures. In the current interviews with graduates, several sources of stress (malpractice suits, having to give up certain aspects of medical work, threats of physical harm, and certain features of peer review) are being expressed that were infrequently mentioned in previous studies.", "contents": "Satisfactions, dissatisfactions, and causes of stress in medical practice. Careers of physicians who graduated from Case Western Reserve School of Medicine have been examined in several longitudinal career studies. Physicians have been interviewed in their own offices, have filled out short-answer questionnaires, and have taken four tests. Emphasis has been placed on factors that have made their medical careers particularly satisfying or dissatisfying. Physicians report many satisfactions that evolve around helping patients, solving problems, and developing relationships with patients and their families. A major dissatisfaction relates to time pressures. In the current interviews with graduates, several sources of stress (malpractice suits, having to give up certain aspects of medical work, threats of physical harm, and certain features of peer review) are being expressed that were infrequently mentioned in previous studies.", "PMID": 430687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_579", "title": "Depression in cancer patients. An approach to differential diagnosis and treatment.", "content": "Despite recent attention to death and dying, many questions remain about the diagnosis and treatment of depression in cancer patients. To provide a framework for effective treatment, this article distinguishes the following types of depression: (1) transient stress reactions, (2) major psychiatric disturbances requiring prompt attention, and (3) other depressive reactions. Depressions in the third general category, comprising the majority, are often mismanaged because of characterological, interpersonal, and organic factors receive insufficient attention. Understanding of such factors provides a basis for rational intervention with both patients and their families.", "contents": "Depression in cancer patients. An approach to differential diagnosis and treatment. Despite recent attention to death and dying, many questions remain about the diagnosis and treatment of depression in cancer patients. To provide a framework for effective treatment, this article distinguishes the following types of depression: (1) transient stress reactions, (2) major psychiatric disturbances requiring prompt attention, and (3) other depressive reactions. Depressions in the third general category, comprising the majority, are often mismanaged because of characterological, interpersonal, and organic factors receive insufficient attention. Understanding of such factors provides a basis for rational intervention with both patients and their families.", "PMID": 430688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_580", "title": "Where did I see that article?", "content": "Searching through stacks of unbound journals is an inefficient method of information retrieval. I have developed an inexpensive and easily used filing system. This filing system provides an excellent medical-information retrieval system.", "contents": "Where did I see that article? Searching through stacks of unbound journals is an inefficient method of information retrieval. I have developed an inexpensive and easily used filing system. This filing system provides an excellent medical-information retrieval system.", "PMID": 430690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_581", "title": "Medullary sponge kidney and renal-leak hypercalciuria. A link to the development of parathyroid adenoma?", "content": "The pathogenesis of the association of medullary sponge kidney and hyperparathyroidism from parathyroid adenoma remains obscure. This unusual case of medullary sponge kidney and secondary hyperparathyroidism due to renal-leak hypercalciuria gives insight into a possible mechanism for the occurrence of medullary sponge kidney with parathyroid adenoma. Suppressible hyperparathyroidism due to renal calcium wasting could represent an intermediate stage in the development of unsuppressible parathyroid hormone secretion. Thus, parathyroid adenoma occurring with medullary sponge kidney may represent a consequence of disordered renal calcium excretion rather than a primary abnormality.", "contents": "Medullary sponge kidney and renal-leak hypercalciuria. A link to the development of parathyroid adenoma? The pathogenesis of the association of medullary sponge kidney and hyperparathyroidism from parathyroid adenoma remains obscure. This unusual case of medullary sponge kidney and secondary hyperparathyroidism due to renal-leak hypercalciuria gives insight into a possible mechanism for the occurrence of medullary sponge kidney with parathyroid adenoma. Suppressible hyperparathyroidism due to renal calcium wasting could represent an intermediate stage in the development of unsuppressible parathyroid hormone secretion. Thus, parathyroid adenoma occurring with medullary sponge kidney may represent a consequence of disordered renal calcium excretion rather than a primary abnormality.", "PMID": 430689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_582", "title": "Blood coagulation following vasectomy.", "content": "Concern that men may have an increased risk of the development of thrombophlebitis following vasectomy prompted the study of 58 vasectomized men and 37 age-matched controls. Eight patients undergoing total hip replacement also were studied, since they are known to have an increased risk of thrombotic complications. There were no changes in coagulation suggestive of a thrombotic tendency in the vasectomized population, though an increase in fibrinogen concentration was present preoperatively, and transient increases in factor V concentration, prothrombin time, and fibrinogen concentration were seen postoperatively in some cases. None of the vasectomized patients had clinical evidence suggestive of thrombosis.", "contents": "Blood coagulation following vasectomy. Concern that men may have an increased risk of the development of thrombophlebitis following vasectomy prompted the study of 58 vasectomized men and 37 age-matched controls. Eight patients undergoing total hip replacement also were studied, since they are known to have an increased risk of thrombotic complications. There were no changes in coagulation suggestive of a thrombotic tendency in the vasectomized population, though an increase in fibrinogen concentration was present preoperatively, and transient increases in factor V concentration, prothrombin time, and fibrinogen concentration were seen postoperatively in some cases. None of the vasectomized patients had clinical evidence suggestive of thrombosis.", "PMID": 430712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_583", "title": "Oxygen concentration from room air. A new source for oxygen therapy in the home.", "content": "Most oxygen concentrators use molecular sieves that selectively adsorb molecules according to their size and polarity. Their present rental cost is about half that of the traditional oxygen tanks or liquid-oxygen systems. Two concentrators have been tested. They are able to produce both high oxygen concentrations (95% oxygen at 2 L/min) and high flow rates (10 L/min with 40% oxygen), which remained stable for one week. After 24 hours of continuous use, neither machine concentrated toxic gases from room air in a city. Both were suitable for use with 24% and 28% Venturi masks.", "contents": "Oxygen concentration from room air. A new source for oxygen therapy in the home. Most oxygen concentrators use molecular sieves that selectively adsorb molecules according to their size and polarity. Their present rental cost is about half that of the traditional oxygen tanks or liquid-oxygen systems. Two concentrators have been tested. They are able to produce both high oxygen concentrations (95% oxygen at 2 L/min) and high flow rates (10 L/min with 40% oxygen), which remained stable for one week. After 24 hours of continuous use, neither machine concentrated toxic gases from room air in a city. Both were suitable for use with 24% and 28% Venturi masks.", "PMID": 430713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_584", "title": "Patients' reactions to psychiatric consultation.", "content": "Physicians are often concerned that patients will resent a request for psychiatric consultation. To investigate this problem, 60 patients undergoing psychiatric consultation in a general hospital were inverviewed 24 hours after the consultation. Nearly two thirds of these patients believed that the consultation was beneficial. Patients' attitudes were independent of their demographic characteristics, reason for referral, and hospital service involved. Patients with long-term illnesses more often had positive attitudes than patients with short-term illnesses. Patients who were initially hostile or ambivalent usually had positive attitudes 24 hours later. Substance abusers and patients who denied clearly recognizable psychiatric disorders often did not value the consultation. Even so, their physicians frequently believed that the consultation was useful. We attribute the positive attitudes of patients in our study largely to the referring physicians' preparing them for psychiatric consultation.", "contents": "Patients' reactions to psychiatric consultation. Physicians are often concerned that patients will resent a request for psychiatric consultation. To investigate this problem, 60 patients undergoing psychiatric consultation in a general hospital were inverviewed 24 hours after the consultation. Nearly two thirds of these patients believed that the consultation was beneficial. Patients' attitudes were independent of their demographic characteristics, reason for referral, and hospital service involved. Patients with long-term illnesses more often had positive attitudes than patients with short-term illnesses. Patients who were initially hostile or ambivalent usually had positive attitudes 24 hours later. Substance abusers and patients who denied clearly recognizable psychiatric disorders often did not value the consultation. Even so, their physicians frequently believed that the consultation was useful. We attribute the positive attitudes of patients in our study largely to the referring physicians' preparing them for psychiatric consultation.", "PMID": 430714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_585", "title": "Prenatal diagnosis of homozygous alpha-thalassemia.", "content": "A Vietnamese couple were both carriers of alpha-thalessemia-1. The woman had a first pregnancy terminated in the delivery of a hydropic fetus due to homozygous alpha-thalassemia. The couple requested prenatal diagnosis for the second pregnancy. The DNA obtained from cultured amniotic fluid cells was studied pregnancy. The DNA obtained from cultured amniotic fluid cells was studied by hybridization with globin cDNA in solution and on filters (Southern technique). Both analyses demonstrated no alpha-globin structural genes were present. Following termination of the pregnancy, the diagnosis was established by the presence of only hemoglobins Barts (gamma 4) and Portland (zeta 2 gamma 2) in the fetal blood.", "contents": "Prenatal diagnosis of homozygous alpha-thalassemia. A Vietnamese couple were both carriers of alpha-thalessemia-1. The woman had a first pregnancy terminated in the delivery of a hydropic fetus due to homozygous alpha-thalassemia. The couple requested prenatal diagnosis for the second pregnancy. The DNA obtained from cultured amniotic fluid cells was studied pregnancy. The DNA obtained from cultured amniotic fluid cells was studied by hybridization with globin cDNA in solution and on filters (Southern technique). Both analyses demonstrated no alpha-globin structural genes were present. Following termination of the pregnancy, the diagnosis was established by the presence of only hemoglobins Barts (gamma 4) and Portland (zeta 2 gamma 2) in the fetal blood.", "PMID": 430715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_586", "title": "Cryoprecipitate as a reliable source of fibrinogen replacement.", "content": "The recent withdrawal of commercial fibrinogen from the market makes alternate sources most important. Although it has been previously reported that single-donor cryoprecipitate contains appreciable amounts of fibrinogen, most clinicians need to be reminded of the reliability of cryoprecipitate for replacement of both fibrinogen and factor VIII. We assayed fibrinogen from 88 bags of cryoprecipitate prepared by five different blood banks in California and Oregon; we found that the average bag of cryoprecipitate contains at least 250 mg of fibrinogen depending on the volume of plasma processed. Cryoprecipitate was found to be a poor source of factors II, V, IX, X, XI, and XII.", "contents": "Cryoprecipitate as a reliable source of fibrinogen replacement. The recent withdrawal of commercial fibrinogen from the market makes alternate sources most important. Although it has been previously reported that single-donor cryoprecipitate contains appreciable amounts of fibrinogen, most clinicians need to be reminded of the reliability of cryoprecipitate for replacement of both fibrinogen and factor VIII. We assayed fibrinogen from 88 bags of cryoprecipitate prepared by five different blood banks in California and Oregon; we found that the average bag of cryoprecipitate contains at least 250 mg of fibrinogen depending on the volume of plasma processed. Cryoprecipitate was found to be a poor source of factors II, V, IX, X, XI, and XII.", "PMID": 430729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_587", "title": "Rebound insomnia. A potential hazard following withdrawal of certain benzodiazepines.", "content": "Five benzodiazepine drugs (diazepam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam hydrochloride, nitrazepam, and triazolam) were evaluated separately in 15 sleep laboratory studies. Rebound insomnia, a worsening of sleep compared with baseline, occurred following withdrawal of triazolam, nitrazepam, and flunitrazepam after they had been given in only single, nightly doses for short periods. The rebound insomnia was attributed to the short and intermediate half-lives of these drugs. Diazepam and flurazepam, which have longer half-lives, did not cause rebound insomnia on withdrawal. Rebound insomnia may play a role in the development of hypnotic drug dependence with shorter-acting benzodiazepine drugs.", "contents": "Rebound insomnia. A potential hazard following withdrawal of certain benzodiazepines. Five benzodiazepine drugs (diazepam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam hydrochloride, nitrazepam, and triazolam) were evaluated separately in 15 sleep laboratory studies. Rebound insomnia, a worsening of sleep compared with baseline, occurred following withdrawal of triazolam, nitrazepam, and flunitrazepam after they had been given in only single, nightly doses for short periods. The rebound insomnia was attributed to the short and intermediate half-lives of these drugs. Diazepam and flurazepam, which have longer half-lives, did not cause rebound insomnia on withdrawal. Rebound insomnia may play a role in the development of hypnotic drug dependence with shorter-acting benzodiazepine drugs.", "PMID": 430730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_588", "title": "Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy.", "content": "We report an intensely pruritic cutaneous eruption that occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy. The clinical manifestations include erythematous urticarial papules and plaques that begin on the abdomen and spread to involve the thighs and occasionally the buttocks and arms. This dermatosis appears to be clinically distinct from previously described pruritic eruptions occurring in pregnancy. Biopsy specimens of the lesions show two histological patterns. We propose that this entity be termed \"pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP)\".", "contents": "Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy. We report an intensely pruritic cutaneous eruption that occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy. The clinical manifestations include erythematous urticarial papules and plaques that begin on the abdomen and spread to involve the thighs and occasionally the buttocks and arms. This dermatosis appears to be clinically distinct from previously described pruritic eruptions occurring in pregnancy. Biopsy specimens of the lesions show two histological patterns. We propose that this entity be termed \"pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP)\".", "PMID": 430731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_589", "title": "Health education for hypertensive patients.", "content": "Three educational interventions for the control of essential hypertension in ambulatory patients were based on analyses of the educational needs of patients and providers. The educational program increased reported compliance with medication, improved the proportion of patients losing weight, and improved appointment keeping. Most important, there was a favorable effect on blood pressure (BP) control. The proportion of patients with BP under control in the group assigned to all three interventions increased by 28% (from 38% to 66%), while the proportion in the control group receiving standard medical therapy with no educational interventions remained unchanged at 42%.", "contents": "Health education for hypertensive patients. Three educational interventions for the control of essential hypertension in ambulatory patients were based on analyses of the educational needs of patients and providers. The educational program increased reported compliance with medication, improved the proportion of patients losing weight, and improved appointment keeping. Most important, there was a favorable effect on blood pressure (BP) control. The proportion of patients with BP under control in the group assigned to all three interventions increased by 28% (from 38% to 66%), while the proportion in the control group receiving standard medical therapy with no educational interventions remained unchanged at 42%.", "PMID": 430732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_590", "title": "Streptococcal endocarditis (nonenterococcal, non-group A): single vs combination therapy.", "content": "A 14-year experience with streptococcal endocarditis was reviewed. The effect of single vs combination antibiotic therapy on the relapse rate was found to be comparable. Of 68 patients treated, four patients died during therapy. Two of 46 patients receiving single-agent and none of 18 patients receiving combination therapy experienced a relapse. Duration of symptoms before diagnosis was the main risk factor predisposing to relapse, which occurred in two of 13 patients with symptoms for longer than three months and in none of 51 patients with symptoms for three months or less before diagnosis. Combination therapy offered no advantage over a single agent in the latter group. Optimal therapy for patients with symptoms for longer than three months could not be determined in this study. However, no relapses were observed in this high-risk group when a single agent was given for longer than 21 days.", "contents": "Streptococcal endocarditis (nonenterococcal, non-group A): single vs combination therapy. A 14-year experience with streptococcal endocarditis was reviewed. The effect of single vs combination antibiotic therapy on the relapse rate was found to be comparable. Of 68 patients treated, four patients died during therapy. Two of 46 patients receiving single-agent and none of 18 patients receiving combination therapy experienced a relapse. Duration of symptoms before diagnosis was the main risk factor predisposing to relapse, which occurred in two of 13 patients with symptoms for longer than three months and in none of 51 patients with symptoms for three months or less before diagnosis. Combination therapy offered no advantage over a single agent in the latter group. Optimal therapy for patients with symptoms for longer than three months could not be determined in this study. However, no relapses were observed in this high-risk group when a single agent was given for longer than 21 days.", "PMID": 430747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_591", "title": "Hemodialysis and pregnancy.", "content": "When severe renal failure requiring hemodialysis complicates pregnancy, there is hesitation to continue the pregnancy. However, successful hemodialysis in pregnancy is being reported with growing frequency. Fetal survival and even conception is possible in patients undergoing dialysis.", "contents": "Hemodialysis and pregnancy. When severe renal failure requiring hemodialysis complicates pregnancy, there is hesitation to continue the pregnancy. However, successful hemodialysis in pregnancy is being reported with growing frequency. Fetal survival and even conception is possible in patients undergoing dialysis.", "PMID": 430748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_592", "title": "Hyperthermia potentiates doxorubicin-related cardiotoxic effects.", "content": "The intercurrent administration of doxorubicin hydrochloride to a patient undergoing whole-body hyperthermia for the treatment of metastatic cancer repeatedly produced ventricular irritability and cardiac dysfunction. Individually, doxorubicin and hyperthermia were tolerated by the patient without incident. Catecholamine determinations showed that the administration of doxorubicin under hyperthermic conditions increased the liberation of both epinephrine and norepinephrine. The acute synergistic cardiotoxic effects occurred with doxorubicin dosages that were severalfold less than those associated with only mild and transient ECG disturbances under normothermic conditions.", "contents": "Hyperthermia potentiates doxorubicin-related cardiotoxic effects. The intercurrent administration of doxorubicin hydrochloride to a patient undergoing whole-body hyperthermia for the treatment of metastatic cancer repeatedly produced ventricular irritability and cardiac dysfunction. Individually, doxorubicin and hyperthermia were tolerated by the patient without incident. Catecholamine determinations showed that the administration of doxorubicin under hyperthermic conditions increased the liberation of both epinephrine and norepinephrine. The acute synergistic cardiotoxic effects occurred with doxorubicin dosages that were severalfold less than those associated with only mild and transient ECG disturbances under normothermic conditions.", "PMID": 430749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_593", "title": "Marital status, health, and use of health services. An old relationship revisited.", "content": "Historical data indicate that married persons live longer on the average than unmarried persons and that they generally make less use of health care services. These facts are increasingly important in view of the growing proportion of \"singles\" in the US population. The complex cause-and-effect relationship between marriage and better health has long been recognized, but there is now some indication that the relationship is less strong than before. Despite lack of precise knowledge on many aspects of this issue, two facts are clear: perceptions of health, illness, and \"need\" for health care are constantly changing and as the family's role in health has declined, there has been a concurrent rise in the \"need\" for, and cost of, the external health care system. The future of these trends depends, in part, on the future of the American family.", "contents": "Marital status, health, and use of health services. An old relationship revisited. Historical data indicate that married persons live longer on the average than unmarried persons and that they generally make less use of health care services. These facts are increasingly important in view of the growing proportion of \"singles\" in the US population. The complex cause-and-effect relationship between marriage and better health has long been recognized, but there is now some indication that the relationship is less strong than before. Despite lack of precise knowledge on many aspects of this issue, two facts are clear: perceptions of health, illness, and \"need\" for health care are constantly changing and as the family's role in health has declined, there has been a concurrent rise in the \"need\" for, and cost of, the external health care system. The future of these trends depends, in part, on the future of the American family.", "PMID": 430750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_594", "title": "Mobile intensive care units. An evaluation of effectiveness.", "content": "Implementation of mobile intensive care units in four suburban communities permitted a retrospective evaluation of their impact on patient outcome. Data on 1,796 cases of myocardial infarction were obtained from medical reords and death certificates of patients arriving at four hospitals during a 65-month period. There were statistically significant reductions in mortality rates in two communities (41.1% to 23.9% and 37.6% to 27.0%) after the service began. A reduction in one community (34.5% to 22.0%) was not statistically significant, and the fourth community showed an increase in the mortality rate (31.1% to 44.0%). Analysis of plausible rival hypotheses permitted most of these to be ruled out as causes for the observed reduction in mortality.", "contents": "Mobile intensive care units. An evaluation of effectiveness. Implementation of mobile intensive care units in four suburban communities permitted a retrospective evaluation of their impact on patient outcome. Data on 1,796 cases of myocardial infarction were obtained from medical reords and death certificates of patients arriving at four hospitals during a 65-month period. There were statistically significant reductions in mortality rates in two communities (41.1% to 23.9% and 37.6% to 27.0%) after the service began. A reduction in one community (34.5% to 22.0%) was not statistically significant, and the fourth community showed an increase in the mortality rate (31.1% to 44.0%). Analysis of plausible rival hypotheses permitted most of these to be ruled out as causes for the observed reduction in mortality.", "PMID": 430770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_595", "title": "Effectiveness of advanced paramedics in a mobile coronary care system.", "content": "The mobilized coronary care system in Columbus, Ohio, began with operation of a single vehicle with a physician in attendance. Currently, advanced emergency medical technician-paramedics work without direct physician supervision. When both experiences are compared, the results indicate that advanced emergency medical technician-paramedics working independently perform as well as physician counterparts.", "contents": "Effectiveness of advanced paramedics in a mobile coronary care system. The mobilized coronary care system in Columbus, Ohio, began with operation of a single vehicle with a physician in attendance. Currently, advanced emergency medical technician-paramedics work without direct physician supervision. When both experiences are compared, the results indicate that advanced emergency medical technician-paramedics working independently perform as well as physician counterparts.", "PMID": 430771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_596", "title": "Cardiac resuscitation in the community. Importance of rapid provision and implications for program planning.", "content": "Several time-related variables involving resuscitation from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest were studied. Short time intervals from collapse to initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and to provision of definitive care were significantly associated with survival from cardiac arrest. The two times were jointly related, and one short time without the other was unlikely to result in survival. If CPR was initiated within four minutes and if definitive care was provided within eight minutes, 43% of patients survived. If either time was exceeded, the changes of survival fell dramatically. The time to initiation of CPR and definitive care are factors directly influenced by emergency medical service program decisions. A realistic option to improve time to initiation of CPR is widespread citizen CPR training. A possible option to improve the time to definitive care is the training of emergency medical technicians in defibrillation.", "contents": "Cardiac resuscitation in the community. Importance of rapid provision and implications for program planning. Several time-related variables involving resuscitation from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest were studied. Short time intervals from collapse to initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and to provision of definitive care were significantly associated with survival from cardiac arrest. The two times were jointly related, and one short time without the other was unlikely to result in survival. If CPR was initiated within four minutes and if definitive care was provided within eight minutes, 43% of patients survived. If either time was exceeded, the changes of survival fell dramatically. The time to initiation of CPR and definitive care are factors directly influenced by emergency medical service program decisions. A realistic option to improve time to initiation of CPR is widespread citizen CPR training. A possible option to improve the time to definitive care is the training of emergency medical technicians in defibrillation.", "PMID": 430772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_597", "title": "Evidence of dietary copper and zinc deficiencies.", "content": "The mean daily amounts of copper and zinc found in hospital diets by atomic absorption spectrometry were 0.76 and 9.4 mg, respectively. Comparison of these diets with published data showed median daily amounts of copper and zinc to be 0.78 and 12.0 mg, respectively, for 20 diets made from conventional foods. These amounts of copper and zinc are less than the 2 mg of copper and 13 mg of zinc thought to be required daily by adults. Hospital diets and perhaps diets in general seem to be low in copper and zinc; the amounts of copper are lower than those of zinc in comparison with respective requirements. Common dietary amounts of these elements may cause health problems.", "contents": "Evidence of dietary copper and zinc deficiencies. The mean daily amounts of copper and zinc found in hospital diets by atomic absorption spectrometry were 0.76 and 9.4 mg, respectively. Comparison of these diets with published data showed median daily amounts of copper and zinc to be 0.78 and 12.0 mg, respectively, for 20 diets made from conventional foods. These amounts of copper and zinc are less than the 2 mg of copper and 13 mg of zinc thought to be required daily by adults. Hospital diets and perhaps diets in general seem to be low in copper and zinc; the amounts of copper are lower than those of zinc in comparison with respective requirements. Common dietary amounts of these elements may cause health problems.", "PMID": 430773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_598", "title": "Education for self-treatment by adult asthmatics.", "content": "A prospective experimental design evaluated the ability of a series of educational and motivational interventions to enhance self-treatment by adult asthmatics and to reduce use of emergency department services for asthma attacks. After treatment for an asthma attack, subjects were randomly assigned to the following sequential interventions: (1) reinforcement by interpersonal similarity at the time of the emergency visit, (2) recepit of positive written appeals, and (3) follow-up telephone reinforcement. The asthmatic nurse educator was generally more effective in achieving short-term reduction of emergency department visits. Although the usefulness of the positive written appeal increased when employed by the asthmatic nurse, there were no substantive independent effects of the written message on emergency department use.", "contents": "Education for self-treatment by adult asthmatics. A prospective experimental design evaluated the ability of a series of educational and motivational interventions to enhance self-treatment by adult asthmatics and to reduce use of emergency department services for asthma attacks. After treatment for an asthma attack, subjects were randomly assigned to the following sequential interventions: (1) reinforcement by interpersonal similarity at the time of the emergency visit, (2) recepit of positive written appeals, and (3) follow-up telephone reinforcement. The asthmatic nurse educator was generally more effective in achieving short-term reduction of emergency department visits. Although the usefulness of the positive written appeal increased when employed by the asthmatic nurse, there were no substantive independent effects of the written message on emergency department use.", "PMID": 430774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_599", "title": "The congestive heart failure model of schizophrenia.", "content": "Many primary care physicians wish to address the psychiatric aspects of their medically ill patients but are impatient with the abstract terminology used in psychiatry's past psychoanalytical period. Modern psychiatry is a more integrated field and considers the biological and social as well as the analytical contributors to disease. Using these newer concepts, we present a teaching model in which schizophrenia is viewed as a syndrome and is compared with the well-known medical syndrome of congestive heart failure. This approach facilitates the conceptualization of a complex psychiatric illness and makes it more appealing to primary care physicians by demonstrating common gound between medicine and psychiatry.", "contents": "The congestive heart failure model of schizophrenia. Many primary care physicians wish to address the psychiatric aspects of their medically ill patients but are impatient with the abstract terminology used in psychiatry's past psychoanalytical period. Modern psychiatry is a more integrated field and considers the biological and social as well as the analytical contributors to disease. Using these newer concepts, we present a teaching model in which schizophrenia is viewed as a syndrome and is compared with the well-known medical syndrome of congestive heart failure. This approach facilitates the conceptualization of a complex psychiatric illness and makes it more appealing to primary care physicians by demonstrating common gound between medicine and psychiatry.", "PMID": 430775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_600", "title": "Acute myocardial infarction. Prognosis complicated by ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest.", "content": "A community-wide study was conducted in metropolitan Baltimore in which the prognosis of 330 patients hospitalized with an acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest (VFib/CA) was compared with that of 1,071 patients hospitalized with acute MI not complicated by VFib/CA. As expected, the in-hospital case-fatality rate among patients with MI complicated by VFib/CA was significantly higher than that in patients without VFib/CA. However, for patients discharged alive from the hospital, no significant differences in long-term survival were found between patients with MI with or without VFib/CA. These results suggest that attempts at preventing subsequent mortality should be diligently pursued in patients with MI who are discharged alive from the hospital regardless of the occurrence of VFib/CA in the acute phase.", "contents": "Acute myocardial infarction. Prognosis complicated by ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest. A community-wide study was conducted in metropolitan Baltimore in which the prognosis of 330 patients hospitalized with an acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest (VFib/CA) was compared with that of 1,071 patients hospitalized with acute MI not complicated by VFib/CA. As expected, the in-hospital case-fatality rate among patients with MI complicated by VFib/CA was significantly higher than that in patients without VFib/CA. However, for patients discharged alive from the hospital, no significant differences in long-term survival were found between patients with MI with or without VFib/CA. These results suggest that attempts at preventing subsequent mortality should be diligently pursued in patients with MI who are discharged alive from the hospital regardless of the occurrence of VFib/CA in the acute phase.", "PMID": 430795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_601", "title": "Intramuscular hemorrhage in hemophiliacs with inhibitors. A medical emergency.", "content": "Any hemorrhage in a hemophilic patient must be regarded as a serious problem. A small percentage of hemophiliacs have an inhibitor that will destroy factor VIII or IX clotting activity, thus making control even more difficult. This occurrence predisposes these patients to joint contractures and deformities secondary to repeated, uncontrolled hemorrhages into muscle compartments and joints. Patients with an inhibitor must, therefore, be recognized, and any bleeding should be treated as an emergency. A combined treatment protocol has been developed by the hematology and orthopedic departments in a effort to achieve early hemorrhage control and prevent subsequent deformity.", "contents": "Intramuscular hemorrhage in hemophiliacs with inhibitors. A medical emergency. Any hemorrhage in a hemophilic patient must be regarded as a serious problem. A small percentage of hemophiliacs have an inhibitor that will destroy factor VIII or IX clotting activity, thus making control even more difficult. This occurrence predisposes these patients to joint contractures and deformities secondary to repeated, uncontrolled hemorrhages into muscle compartments and joints. Patients with an inhibitor must, therefore, be recognized, and any bleeding should be treated as an emergency. A combined treatment protocol has been developed by the hematology and orthopedic departments in a effort to achieve early hemorrhage control and prevent subsequent deformity.", "PMID": 430796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_602", "title": "Noninvasive testing vs clinical evaluation of arterial disease. A prospective study.", "content": "In a prospective clinical study involving 458 diabetic patients, the results of noninvasive testing procedures were compared with the findings obtained by clinical evaluation. The results of the study showed that nearly one third of the patients who gave no history of intermittent claudication were found to have arterial disease when tested. One fifth of the patients with what were considered normal physical examination results had abnormal results by noninvasive testing. When history and physical examination prove ineffective for obtaining a diagnosis of arterial disease, the use of noninvasive devices effectively rules out or confirms the presence of hemodynamically significant arterial obstruction. Not only can simple, noninvasive testing methods greatly increase the accuracy of clinical diagnosis for the presence of arterial disease, but the baseline data obtained can serve as objective indexes to follow the natural history of the disease.", "contents": "Noninvasive testing vs clinical evaluation of arterial disease. A prospective study. In a prospective clinical study involving 458 diabetic patients, the results of noninvasive testing procedures were compared with the findings obtained by clinical evaluation. The results of the study showed that nearly one third of the patients who gave no history of intermittent claudication were found to have arterial disease when tested. One fifth of the patients with what were considered normal physical examination results had abnormal results by noninvasive testing. When history and physical examination prove ineffective for obtaining a diagnosis of arterial disease, the use of noninvasive devices effectively rules out or confirms the presence of hemodynamically significant arterial obstruction. Not only can simple, noninvasive testing methods greatly increase the accuracy of clinical diagnosis for the presence of arterial disease, but the baseline data obtained can serve as objective indexes to follow the natural history of the disease.", "PMID": 430797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_603", "title": "Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The Framingham study.", "content": "Based on 20 years of surveillance of the Framingham cohort relating subsequent cardiovascular events to prior evidence of diabetes, a twofold to threefold increased risk of clinical atherosclerotic disease was reported. The relative impact was greatest for intermittent claudication (IC) and congestive heart failure (CHF) and least for coronary heart disease (CHD), which was, nevertheless, on an absolute scale the chief sequela. The relative impact was substantially greater for women than for men. For each of the cardiovascular diseases (CVD), morbidity and mortality were higher for diabetic women than for nondiabetic men. After adjustment for other associated risk factors, the relative impact of diabetes on CHD, IC, or stroke incidence was the same for women as for men; for CVD death and CHF, it was greater for women. Cardiovascular mortality was actually about as great for diabetic women as for diabetic men.", "contents": "Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The Framingham study. Based on 20 years of surveillance of the Framingham cohort relating subsequent cardiovascular events to prior evidence of diabetes, a twofold to threefold increased risk of clinical atherosclerotic disease was reported. The relative impact was greatest for intermittent claudication (IC) and congestive heart failure (CHF) and least for coronary heart disease (CHD), which was, nevertheless, on an absolute scale the chief sequela. The relative impact was substantially greater for women than for men. For each of the cardiovascular diseases (CVD), morbidity and mortality were higher for diabetic women than for nondiabetic men. After adjustment for other associated risk factors, the relative impact of diabetes on CHD, IC, or stroke incidence was the same for women as for men; for CVD death and CHF, it was greater for women. Cardiovascular mortality was actually about as great for diabetic women as for diabetic men.", "PMID": 430798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_604", "title": "Enzymatic fluorometry for estimating serum total bile acid concentration.", "content": "Fasting serum total bile acid (SBA) levels were estimated by enzymatic fluorometry (EF) in 36 subjects without liver disease, 28 with hepatic lesions and impaired hepatic function, and 79 with hepatic lesions and normal function. Fasting and postprandial EF-SBA levels were compared in nine normal subjects and nine patients with cholestasis, and SBA assays by EF and gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) were compared in 28 patients with hepatic lesions and impaired function. Levels of SBA were below 9 mumole/L in all but two of the 36 subjects without liver disease, and above that level in all 28 with impaired hepatic function and 17 (24%) of the 70 with hepatic lesions and normal liver function. In most subjects, EF detected notable postprandial rises in SBA. Enzymatic fluorometric and GLC-SBA values were closely correlated (coefficient of correlation, 0.869).", "contents": "Enzymatic fluorometry for estimating serum total bile acid concentration. Fasting serum total bile acid (SBA) levels were estimated by enzymatic fluorometry (EF) in 36 subjects without liver disease, 28 with hepatic lesions and impaired hepatic function, and 79 with hepatic lesions and normal function. Fasting and postprandial EF-SBA levels were compared in nine normal subjects and nine patients with cholestasis, and SBA assays by EF and gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) were compared in 28 patients with hepatic lesions and impaired function. Levels of SBA were below 9 mumole/L in all but two of the 36 subjects without liver disease, and above that level in all 28 with impaired hepatic function and 17 (24%) of the 70 with hepatic lesions and normal liver function. In most subjects, EF detected notable postprandial rises in SBA. Enzymatic fluorometric and GLC-SBA values were closely correlated (coefficient of correlation, 0.869).", "PMID": 430799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_605", "title": "Heart disease risk factors and hormone use in postmenopausal women.", "content": "A population of 1,496 women aged 55 to 74 years was studied for the distribution of heart disease risk factors in the presence or absence of postmenopausal estrogens. Current hormone use was reported by 39%. Hormone users were significantly slimmer than nonusers at all ages. After adjustment for the effect of obesity, hormone users had significantly lower mean levels of plasma cholesterol and higher mean levels of plasma triglycerides than nonusers. Blood pressure and fasting plasma glucose concentration tended to be lower among hormone users, although the differences were not statistically significant in all age groups. This article discusses the theoretical implications of these observations for cardiovascular disease mortality and contrasts them with the cancer risk of postmenopausal estrogen use.", "contents": "Heart disease risk factors and hormone use in postmenopausal women. A population of 1,496 women aged 55 to 74 years was studied for the distribution of heart disease risk factors in the presence or absence of postmenopausal estrogens. Current hormone use was reported by 39%. Hormone users were significantly slimmer than nonusers at all ages. After adjustment for the effect of obesity, hormone users had significantly lower mean levels of plasma cholesterol and higher mean levels of plasma triglycerides than nonusers. Blood pressure and fasting plasma glucose concentration tended to be lower among hormone users, although the differences were not statistically significant in all age groups. This article discusses the theoretical implications of these observations for cardiovascular disease mortality and contrasts them with the cancer risk of postmenopausal estrogen use.", "PMID": 430817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_606", "title": "Occupational exposure to hexachlorocyclopentadiene. How safe is sewage?", "content": "In March 1977, a large volume of the industrial chemical hexachlorocyclopentadiene (HCCPD) was dumped into a municipal sewage system in Kentucky. We evaluated the health effects of exposure to HCCPD in 145 sewage treatment plant workers. We found that 85 (59%) had noted eye irritation, 65 (45%) had headaches, and 39 (27%) had throat irritation. Symptoms occurred throughout the plant; however, highest attack rates occurred in primary sewage treatment areas. Medical examination of 41 employees three days after the plant was closed showed proteinuria and elevation of serum lactic dehydrogenase levels; these findings were not present three weeks later. This episode demonstrates the toxicity of HCCPD and emphasizes the vulnerability of sewage workers to chemical toxins in wastewater systems.", "contents": "Occupational exposure to hexachlorocyclopentadiene. How safe is sewage? In March 1977, a large volume of the industrial chemical hexachlorocyclopentadiene (HCCPD) was dumped into a municipal sewage system in Kentucky. We evaluated the health effects of exposure to HCCPD in 145 sewage treatment plant workers. We found that 85 (59%) had noted eye irritation, 65 (45%) had headaches, and 39 (27%) had throat irritation. Symptoms occurred throughout the plant; however, highest attack rates occurred in primary sewage treatment areas. Medical examination of 41 employees three days after the plant was closed showed proteinuria and elevation of serum lactic dehydrogenase levels; these findings were not present three weeks later. This episode demonstrates the toxicity of HCCPD and emphasizes the vulnerability of sewage workers to chemical toxins in wastewater systems.", "PMID": 430818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_607", "title": "A national study of medical and surgical specialties. III. An empirical approach to the classification of patient care.", "content": "A major feature of a national survey of medical and surgical specialties is the development and application of an algorithm for classifying patient care services provided by physicians. The care classification reflects much of prevailing opinion regarding what constitutes primary and nonprimary care. The classification system provides a powerful tool for the analysis of patient care services, since it is based on conditions of access to care, the physician's role in providing the care, measures associated with continuity of care, and a proxy measure of comprehensiveness of care. Furthermore, it is based on the recordings by physicians of actual patient-encounter characteristics and is not operationally dependent on physician characteristics or propensities.", "contents": "A national study of medical and surgical specialties. III. An empirical approach to the classification of patient care. A major feature of a national survey of medical and surgical specialties is the development and application of an algorithm for classifying patient care services provided by physicians. The care classification reflects much of prevailing opinion regarding what constitutes primary and nonprimary care. The classification system provides a powerful tool for the analysis of patient care services, since it is based on conditions of access to care, the physician's role in providing the care, measures associated with continuity of care, and a proxy measure of comprehensiveness of care. Furthermore, it is based on the recordings by physicians of actual patient-encounter characteristics and is not operationally dependent on physician characteristics or propensities.", "PMID": 430819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_608", "title": "Genital and abdominal self-surgery. A case report.", "content": "In two separate procedures, a psychiatric patient first performed a bilateral orchiectomy on himself and then later attempted to denervate his adrenal glands. This case suggests that physicians should be alerted to the possibility of self-surgery occurring in patients who have sought elective surgery and have been rejected.", "contents": "Genital and abdominal self-surgery. A case report. In two separate procedures, a psychiatric patient first performed a bilateral orchiectomy on himself and then later attempted to denervate his adrenal glands. This case suggests that physicians should be alerted to the possibility of self-surgery occurring in patients who have sought elective surgery and have been rejected.", "PMID": 430820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_609", "title": "Hyperpyrexia (temperature greater than 40 C) in children.", "content": "A total of 516 charts of children who presented to the Oklahoma Children's Memorial Hospital Emergency Department or Walk-In Clinic with a temperature of 40 C(104 F) or more were reviewed. The findings were consistent with the concept that high fever in children is most often associated with common illnesses such as upper respiratory tract infections, otitis media, pneumonia, acute gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, etc. There were only 22 (4%) admissions from the entire group and one death, actually due to delay in seeking medical help. The incidence and recurrence of febrile seizures (24 cases) was related to the use and compliance with anticonvulsant drugs rather than antipyretic measures. Appropriate laboratory work, x-rays and cultures should be done only when consistent with clinical findings. Follow-up can be done without hospitalization or antibiotics, as most children have a benign illness. The need for treatment of the underlying cause of the fever should, of course, remain the paramount goal. With proper parental guidance and education, the use of traditional methods of lowering fever can be discouraged.", "contents": "Hyperpyrexia (temperature greater than 40 C) in children. A total of 516 charts of children who presented to the Oklahoma Children's Memorial Hospital Emergency Department or Walk-In Clinic with a temperature of 40 C(104 F) or more were reviewed. The findings were consistent with the concept that high fever in children is most often associated with common illnesses such as upper respiratory tract infections, otitis media, pneumonia, acute gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, etc. There were only 22 (4%) admissions from the entire group and one death, actually due to delay in seeking medical help. The incidence and recurrence of febrile seizures (24 cases) was related to the use and compliance with anticonvulsant drugs rather than antipyretic measures. Appropriate laboratory work, x-rays and cultures should be done only when consistent with clinical findings. Follow-up can be done without hospitalization or antibiotics, as most children have a benign illness. The need for treatment of the underlying cause of the fever should, of course, remain the paramount goal. With proper parental guidance and education, the use of traditional methods of lowering fever can be discouraged.", "PMID": 430938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_610", "title": "Epidemiologic and clinical aspects of animal bite injuries.", "content": "During 1975, 332 animal bite injuries accounted for 1.2% of all surgical problems treated at the UCLA Hospital Emergency Department. Data on 307 bite injuries were available and analyzed for environmental, animal, human, interaction, and clinical factors. More than half of the dog bites and almost three fourths of the cat bites-scratches happened at or near the victims' homes. Dog bites were almost twice as common among men, while cat bites-scratches were twice as common among women. Of the incidents in which ownership information was available, 85% of dog bites and 80% of cat bites-scratches were from an animal belonging to the victim, his family or friends, or another known person. Forty-three percent of dog bites, and 52% of cat bites-scratches were provoked, that is, happened while the victim was interacting with the animal. Of bites of the head and/or neck, 38% injured the upper lip; 17% of dog bites injured the eye or adjacent tissues; 48% were in children less than ten-years-old. On fifth of cat bites-scratches involved the head and/or neck, 60% of these injured orbital or periorbital tissues. Over 2% of patients were hospitalized. Five percent of dog bite victims and 29% of cat bite-scratch victims returned with complications, mostly cellulitis or lymphangitis. Pasteurella multocida was the most common pathogen cultured, as evidenced by the 50% and 80% culture-positive rates for dog and cat bite-scratches respectively in this series.", "contents": "Epidemiologic and clinical aspects of animal bite injuries. During 1975, 332 animal bite injuries accounted for 1.2% of all surgical problems treated at the UCLA Hospital Emergency Department. Data on 307 bite injuries were available and analyzed for environmental, animal, human, interaction, and clinical factors. More than half of the dog bites and almost three fourths of the cat bites-scratches happened at or near the victims' homes. Dog bites were almost twice as common among men, while cat bites-scratches were twice as common among women. Of the incidents in which ownership information was available, 85% of dog bites and 80% of cat bites-scratches were from an animal belonging to the victim, his family or friends, or another known person. Forty-three percent of dog bites, and 52% of cat bites-scratches were provoked, that is, happened while the victim was interacting with the animal. Of bites of the head and/or neck, 38% injured the upper lip; 17% of dog bites injured the eye or adjacent tissues; 48% were in children less than ten-years-old. On fifth of cat bites-scratches involved the head and/or neck, 60% of these injured orbital or periorbital tissues. Over 2% of patients were hospitalized. Five percent of dog bite victims and 29% of cat bite-scratch victims returned with complications, mostly cellulitis or lymphangitis. Pasteurella multocida was the most common pathogen cultured, as evidenced by the 50% and 80% culture-positive rates for dog and cat bite-scratches respectively in this series.", "PMID": 430939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_611", "title": "Prospective vs retrospective data for evaluating emergency care: a research methodology.", "content": "Emergency department records and patient charts do not provide enough or sufficiently detailed data for audit of quality of care in a high volume emergency department. As a solution, at the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California School of Medicine, three emergency medical technicians--hospital-based paramedics--were trained as observers of patient process and treatment. In addition to basic identification information, the form completed by observers listed 21 procedural steps and process data such as sequence, time for completion, type of personnel performing, necessary equipment and supplies, and space for comments. Direct observation of patient process was carried out in 442 patients, a total of 3,882 procedures was observed and recorded. The direct observation is perhaps the most accurate method of data collection for auditing purposes because it reflects actual events. This data was used by the Research Peer Review Committee to help rate the quality of patient treatment process.", "contents": "Prospective vs retrospective data for evaluating emergency care: a research methodology. Emergency department records and patient charts do not provide enough or sufficiently detailed data for audit of quality of care in a high volume emergency department. As a solution, at the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California School of Medicine, three emergency medical technicians--hospital-based paramedics--were trained as observers of patient process and treatment. In addition to basic identification information, the form completed by observers listed 21 procedural steps and process data such as sequence, time for completion, type of personnel performing, necessary equipment and supplies, and space for comments. Direct observation of patient process was carried out in 442 patients, a total of 3,882 procedures was observed and recorded. The direct observation is perhaps the most accurate method of data collection for auditing purposes because it reflects actual events. This data was used by the Research Peer Review Committee to help rate the quality of patient treatment process.", "PMID": 430940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_612", "title": "A characterization of emergency medicine.", "content": "A Medical Specialty Preference Inventory (MSPI) containing 199 items relating to the practice of medicine was developed through ratings by a national sample of over 1,000 board certified physicians in internal medicine, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, surgery, and family practice. Sixty-one emergency physicians completed the MSPI for emergency medicine. Scores on the emergency medicine characterization were compared with those of the six specialties. Results showed emergency medicine most similar to surgery and least similar to psychiatry, although the similarity to surgery was two standard deviations below the mean overall surgery score. A more extensive and systematic effort to characterize emergency medicine using the MSPI rating system could create a national representative factorial characterization of emergency medicine to be used by medical students and physicians when choosing a specialty.", "contents": "A characterization of emergency medicine. A Medical Specialty Preference Inventory (MSPI) containing 199 items relating to the practice of medicine was developed through ratings by a national sample of over 1,000 board certified physicians in internal medicine, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, surgery, and family practice. Sixty-one emergency physicians completed the MSPI for emergency medicine. Scores on the emergency medicine characterization were compared with those of the six specialties. Results showed emergency medicine most similar to surgery and least similar to psychiatry, although the similarity to surgery was two standard deviations below the mean overall surgery score. A more extensive and systematic effort to characterize emergency medicine using the MSPI rating system could create a national representative factorial characterization of emergency medicine to be used by medical students and physicians when choosing a specialty.", "PMID": 430941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_613", "title": "Isolated transection of the common duct.", "content": "A patient with complete transection of the common bile duct after blunt trauma from a steering wheel presented with severe right-sided lower chest pain. Based on results of physical examination, blood and urine analysis and chest x-ray films, he was discharged after suture of a lip laceration. Five days later upon his return for suture removal, the appearance of jaundice and mild symptoms of abdominal distention prompted hospitalization and exploratory surgery. At surgery, avulsion of the common bile duct was the only injury. In the few previously reported cases of this injury, jaundice and mild symptoms of abdominal distention appeared three to four days after injury. The minimal findings of a potentially fatal lesion emphasize the need for securing appropriate follow-up medical care for patients with a history of blunt trauma to the chest and/or abdomen.", "contents": "Isolated transection of the common duct. A patient with complete transection of the common bile duct after blunt trauma from a steering wheel presented with severe right-sided lower chest pain. Based on results of physical examination, blood and urine analysis and chest x-ray films, he was discharged after suture of a lip laceration. Five days later upon his return for suture removal, the appearance of jaundice and mild symptoms of abdominal distention prompted hospitalization and exploratory surgery. At surgery, avulsion of the common bile duct was the only injury. In the few previously reported cases of this injury, jaundice and mild symptoms of abdominal distention appeared three to four days after injury. The minimal findings of a potentially fatal lesion emphasize the need for securing appropriate follow-up medical care for patients with a history of blunt trauma to the chest and/or abdomen.", "PMID": 430942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_614", "title": "Time trends in prognosis of patients with myocardial infarction: a population-based study.", "content": "A population-based study was conducted in metropolitan Baltimore, in which the prognosis of 504 patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (MI) from July 1966 through June 1967 was compared with that of 803 patients hospitalized from January through December 1971. For patients admitted to coronary care units (CCUs), the in-hospital case-fatality rate (CFR) in 1971 (20%) was found to be significantly lower than that in 1966/67 (27.5%) (p less than .025), after simultaneous adjustment for 16 variables which may affect prognosis. No such significant difference was detected for patients not admitted to CCUs when the two time periods were compared. As a result of these time trends, CFRs were not significantly different between CCU and non-CCU patients in 1966/67, but in 1971 a significant advantage was shown for CCU patients (p less than .005). These results suggest that effectiveness of CCUs in prevention of in-hospital deaths increased between 1966/67 and 1971. For hospital survivors, regardless of admission to a CCU, no significant differences in long-term prognosis were found between patients discharged in 1971 and those discharged in 1966/67. This finding may reflect the lack of major therapeutic advances between the two study periods, aimed at reducing the progression of coronary atherosclerosis and/or the extent of the infarcted area.", "contents": "Time trends in prognosis of patients with myocardial infarction: a population-based study. A population-based study was conducted in metropolitan Baltimore, in which the prognosis of 504 patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (MI) from July 1966 through June 1967 was compared with that of 803 patients hospitalized from January through December 1971. For patients admitted to coronary care units (CCUs), the in-hospital case-fatality rate (CFR) in 1971 (20%) was found to be significantly lower than that in 1966/67 (27.5%) (p less than .025), after simultaneous adjustment for 16 variables which may affect prognosis. No such significant difference was detected for patients not admitted to CCUs when the two time periods were compared. As a result of these time trends, CFRs were not significantly different between CCU and non-CCU patients in 1966/67, but in 1971 a significant advantage was shown for CCU patients (p less than .005). These results suggest that effectiveness of CCUs in prevention of in-hospital deaths increased between 1966/67 and 1971. For hospital survivors, regardless of admission to a CCU, no significant differences in long-term prognosis were found between patients discharged in 1971 and those discharged in 1966/67. This finding may reflect the lack of major therapeutic advances between the two study periods, aimed at reducing the progression of coronary atherosclerosis and/or the extent of the infarcted area.", "PMID": 430947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_615", "title": "Individual temperament as a predictor of health or premature disease.", "content": "Two studies of temperament as a possible predictor of continuing good health or premature disease are reported. In earlier work to determine youthful precursors of premature disease, a number of separate characteristics distinguishing medical students who remain healthy from those with premature disorders have been identified. Characterization by temperament, an expression of innate biological endowment, provides a more global portrayal of an organism that can an aggregate of separate characteristics alone. Criteria for designating three temperament types, termed Alpha, Beta and Gamma, are presented. In 1948, 45 subjects were assigned to one of these types on the basis of youthful characteristics. The subjects in the three temperament groups had different health outcomes 30 years later, significant at the p less than 0.01 level. Gamma type had the most disorders and deaths, Beta type the fewest. A cross-validation study on 127 subjects had similar results at the p less than 0.05 level. Temperament appears to be a variable of predictive potential of individual stamina, or of vulnerability to premature disease and death.", "contents": "Individual temperament as a predictor of health or premature disease. Two studies of temperament as a possible predictor of continuing good health or premature disease are reported. In earlier work to determine youthful precursors of premature disease, a number of separate characteristics distinguishing medical students who remain healthy from those with premature disorders have been identified. Characterization by temperament, an expression of innate biological endowment, provides a more global portrayal of an organism that can an aggregate of separate characteristics alone. Criteria for designating three temperament types, termed Alpha, Beta and Gamma, are presented. In 1948, 45 subjects were assigned to one of these types on the basis of youthful characteristics. The subjects in the three temperament groups had different health outcomes 30 years later, significant at the p less than 0.01 level. Gamma type had the most disorders and deaths, Beta type the fewest. A cross-validation study on 127 subjects had similar results at the p less than 0.05 level. Temperament appears to be a variable of predictive potential of individual stamina, or of vulnerability to premature disease and death.", "PMID": 430948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_616", "title": "Aspergillus flavus as a cause of thyroiditis in an immunosuppressed host.", "content": "Disseminated aspergillosis is a major complication in immunosuprressed patients. Infiltration of the thyroid with Aspergillus organisms occurs in approximately 20% of autopsies in patients dying with disseminated disease. The present report describes Aspergillus thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and possible hypothyroidism in a patient with disseminated aspergillosis.", "contents": "Aspergillus flavus as a cause of thyroiditis in an immunosuppressed host. Disseminated aspergillosis is a major complication in immunosuprressed patients. Infiltration of the thyroid with Aspergillus organisms occurs in approximately 20% of autopsies in patients dying with disseminated disease. The present report describes Aspergillus thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and possible hypothyroidism in a patient with disseminated aspergillosis.", "PMID": 430949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_617", "title": "[Testosterone content in the blood plasma in acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "The testosterone content was studied in 50 male patients, who sustained myocardial infarction, on the 1,3--5,10 and 20th day of the disease. Forty seven patients with ischemic heart disease served as controls. The results obtained were analysed in relation to the patients age and the course type of the disease. The testosterone concentration on the 1st day of myocardial infarction was not different from that in the ischemic heart disease patients. Elevation of the testosterone level was observed in the myocardial infarction patients during the acute period of the disease, but its dynamics depended on the course type of the disease. No relationship was revealed between the testosterone level increase and the patients age.", "contents": "[Testosterone content in the blood plasma in acute myocardial infarct]. The testosterone content was studied in 50 male patients, who sustained myocardial infarction, on the 1,3--5,10 and 20th day of the disease. Forty seven patients with ischemic heart disease served as controls. The results obtained were analysed in relation to the patients age and the course type of the disease. The testosterone concentration on the 1st day of myocardial infarction was not different from that in the ischemic heart disease patients. Elevation of the testosterone level was observed in the myocardial infarction patients during the acute period of the disease, but its dynamics depended on the course type of the disease. No relationship was revealed between the testosterone level increase and the patients age.", "PMID": 430953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_618", "title": "[Importance of hormones and free fatty acids in the pathogenesis of carbohydrate metabolic disorders in myocardial infarct].", "content": "The increase in the content of the somatotropic hormone and cortisol in blood plasma as well as the increase in the content of free fatty acids in serum in the acute period of myocardial infarction are more marked in patients with impaired tolerance than in those with normal tolerance. The authors believe that free fatty acids are of utmost importance among the factors causing the development of insulin resistance in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Their increased concentration is due to hypersecretion of catecholamines, somatotropic hormone, and cortisole.", "contents": "[Importance of hormones and free fatty acids in the pathogenesis of carbohydrate metabolic disorders in myocardial infarct]. The increase in the content of the somatotropic hormone and cortisol in blood plasma as well as the increase in the content of free fatty acids in serum in the acute period of myocardial infarction are more marked in patients with impaired tolerance than in those with normal tolerance. The authors believe that free fatty acids are of utmost importance among the factors causing the development of insulin resistance in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Their increased concentration is due to hypersecretion of catecholamines, somatotropic hormone, and cortisole.", "PMID": 430954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_619", "title": "[Characteristics of the course of ischemic heart disease in thyroid hypofunction].", "content": "The peculiarities of lipid metabolism and hyperlipoproteinemia, blood coagulation and myocardial contractility in normal and reduced thyroid function were studied in 162 patients with ischemic heart disease. It was shown that hyperlipoproteinemia, hypercoagulation, and myocardial hypodynamia are revealed more frequently and at earlier periods in hypofunction.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the course of ischemic heart disease in thyroid hypofunction]. The peculiarities of lipid metabolism and hyperlipoproteinemia, blood coagulation and myocardial contractility in normal and reduced thyroid function were studied in 162 patients with ischemic heart disease. It was shown that hyperlipoproteinemia, hypercoagulation, and myocardial hypodynamia are revealed more frequently and at earlier periods in hypofunction.", "PMID": 430955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_620", "title": "[Adaptive and compensatory mechanisms in chronic circulatory insufficiency in ischemic heart disease].", "content": "Activation of some neuroendocrine systems is one of the compensatory-adaptation mechanisms in circulatory insufficiency in patients with ischemic heart disease. Evidence of this is that patients with stage I--IIA of the disease are marked by an increase in the activity of the sympatheticoadrenal system (increase in the excretion of free catecholamines) and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, in the glucocorticoid function of the adrenal cortex, in the functional condition of the epiphysis cerebri, and in the blood plasma antidiuretic activity. Participation of these systems in the adaptation processes maintains an adequate level of venous blood return to the heart and inotropic myocardial function.", "contents": "[Adaptive and compensatory mechanisms in chronic circulatory insufficiency in ischemic heart disease]. Activation of some neuroendocrine systems is one of the compensatory-adaptation mechanisms in circulatory insufficiency in patients with ischemic heart disease. Evidence of this is that patients with stage I--IIA of the disease are marked by an increase in the activity of the sympatheticoadrenal system (increase in the excretion of free catecholamines) and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, in the glucocorticoid function of the adrenal cortex, in the functional condition of the epiphysis cerebri, and in the blood plasma antidiuretic activity. Participation of these systems in the adaptation processes maintains an adequate level of venous blood return to the heart and inotropic myocardial function.", "PMID": 430956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_621", "title": "[State of the kallikrein-kinin system in chronic circulatory insufficiency].", "content": "The condition of the kallikrein-kinin system was studied in 93 patients with chronic circulatory insufficiency. In 25 of them it was studied in dynamics--before and after treatment with cardiac glycosides. Marked activation of the kinin system was found in all patients; this was manifested by a decreased level of plasma prekallikrein and phase changes in the content of the kallikrein inhibitor. Improvement in the clinical picture and values of central hemodynamics during treatment was attended by normalization of the main indices of the kinin system. In tolerance of patients to treatment with cardiac glycosides, restoration of the content of the main components of the kinin system was not encountered.", "contents": "[State of the kallikrein-kinin system in chronic circulatory insufficiency]. The condition of the kallikrein-kinin system was studied in 93 patients with chronic circulatory insufficiency. In 25 of them it was studied in dynamics--before and after treatment with cardiac glycosides. Marked activation of the kinin system was found in all patients; this was manifested by a decreased level of plasma prekallikrein and phase changes in the content of the kallikrein inhibitor. Improvement in the clinical picture and values of central hemodynamics during treatment was attended by normalization of the main indices of the kinin system. In tolerance of patients to treatment with cardiac glycosides, restoration of the content of the main components of the kinin system was not encountered.", "PMID": 430957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_622", "title": "[Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in acute embologenic arterial obstruction].", "content": "Examination of patients with acute embologenic arterial occlusion yielded data testifying to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system both in the ischemic and in the postischemic periods. Direct dependence of the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on the degree of tissue ischemia and duration of the ischemic period of up to 2 days was revealed. The development of secondary hyperaldosteronism in patients with embolism of the major vessels stipulated the expediency of using aldosterone antagonists in patients with most marked ischemic changes in the tissues as well as when the ischemic period lasted more than 6 hours.", "contents": "[Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in acute embologenic arterial obstruction]. Examination of patients with acute embologenic arterial occlusion yielded data testifying to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system both in the ischemic and in the postischemic periods. Direct dependence of the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on the degree of tissue ischemia and duration of the ischemic period of up to 2 days was revealed. The development of secondary hyperaldosteronism in patients with embolism of the major vessels stipulated the expediency of using aldosterone antagonists in patients with most marked ischemic changes in the tissues as well as when the ischemic period lasted more than 6 hours.", "PMID": 430958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_623", "title": "[Extracellular fluid and total potassium content in obesity patients].", "content": "The content of extracellular fluid and total potassium was studied by total-body radiometry with 82Br and according to 40K in 162 females aged 41 to 55 years suffering from obesity. It was established that in patients with obesity the volume of extracellular tissue, in per cent, and the amount of total potassium, in gramms and millieequivalent per unit of actual body mass, were reduced. An increase in the content of extracellular fluid and a decrease in the level of total potassium in obese patients with circulatory insufficiency may be revealed only when the real content of extracellular fluid and the total potassium are stimated in relation to the unit of body surface. In obese patients with no signs of circulatory insufficiency these relative values hardly differ from the control values.", "contents": "[Extracellular fluid and total potassium content in obesity patients]. The content of extracellular fluid and total potassium was studied by total-body radiometry with 82Br and according to 40K in 162 females aged 41 to 55 years suffering from obesity. It was established that in patients with obesity the volume of extracellular tissue, in per cent, and the amount of total potassium, in gramms and millieequivalent per unit of actual body mass, were reduced. An increase in the content of extracellular fluid and a decrease in the level of total potassium in obese patients with circulatory insufficiency may be revealed only when the real content of extracellular fluid and the total potassium are stimated in relation to the unit of body surface. In obese patients with no signs of circulatory insufficiency these relative values hardly differ from the control values.", "PMID": 430959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_624", "title": "[Determination of excess body mass in epidemiological studies of cardiovascular diseases].", "content": "In epidemiological studies of cardiovascular diseases, in order to determine excessive body weight and its significance in the spread and development of ischemic heart disease among different populations it is necessary to use the best index characterizing the height-weight relationships and meeting such requirements as independence of growth and high correlation with weight. Analysis showed that the index weight/height2 may be used to determine excessive weight in 40--59-year-old males living in one of the Moscow districts. A 30.0 kg/m2 or higher value of this index is evidence of excessive increase in body mass.", "contents": "[Determination of excess body mass in epidemiological studies of cardiovascular diseases]. In epidemiological studies of cardiovascular diseases, in order to determine excessive body weight and its significance in the spread and development of ischemic heart disease among different populations it is necessary to use the best index characterizing the height-weight relationships and meeting such requirements as independence of growth and high correlation with weight. Analysis showed that the index weight/height2 may be used to determine excessive weight in 40--59-year-old males living in one of the Moscow districts. A 30.0 kg/m2 or higher value of this index is evidence of excessive increase in body mass.", "PMID": 430960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_625", "title": "[Calcium and the permissive effect of glucocorticoids: the role of glucocorticoids in an adrenaline-induced increase in the rate of calcium absorption by the ventricular tissue of the rat heart].", "content": "It was demonstrated in rat experiments that the ability of the myocardial ventricles to increase 45Ca absorption after the injection of adrenaline was disturbed on the 3rd--5th day following adrenalectomy. The decrease in sensitivity to adrenaline occurred in two phases and was delayed essentially after a fall in the concentration of glucocorticoids in circulation. Chronic in vivo injection of hydrocortisone (2.5 mg per rat) into these animals for 3--5 days restored the effect of catecholamine to a great extent. The restorative effect was weaker when the rats were given a single intravenous hydrocortisone infusion 6 hours before being killed. Increase of the single intravenous dose of the hormone to 5 and 7.5 mg per rat reduced its effect. The authors assume that the described permissive effect of glucocorticoids is determined not by their direct interaction with the cytoplasmic membrane but by hormone induced intracellular synthesis of proteins capable of participating in the regulation of permeability to ions.", "contents": "[Calcium and the permissive effect of glucocorticoids: the role of glucocorticoids in an adrenaline-induced increase in the rate of calcium absorption by the ventricular tissue of the rat heart]. It was demonstrated in rat experiments that the ability of the myocardial ventricles to increase 45Ca absorption after the injection of adrenaline was disturbed on the 3rd--5th day following adrenalectomy. The decrease in sensitivity to adrenaline occurred in two phases and was delayed essentially after a fall in the concentration of glucocorticoids in circulation. Chronic in vivo injection of hydrocortisone (2.5 mg per rat) into these animals for 3--5 days restored the effect of catecholamine to a great extent. The restorative effect was weaker when the rats were given a single intravenous hydrocortisone infusion 6 hours before being killed. Increase of the single intravenous dose of the hormone to 5 and 7.5 mg per rat reduced its effect. The authors assume that the described permissive effect of glucocorticoids is determined not by their direct interaction with the cytoplasmic membrane but by hormone induced intracellular synthesis of proteins capable of participating in the regulation of permeability to ions.", "PMID": 430961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_626", "title": "[Surgery on the eye under anticoagulative therapy (author's transl)].", "content": "Surgery on the eye of patients on long term anticoagulation therapy is possible. To avoid bleeding suprarenin solution 1:1000, coagulation of conjunctival and scleral blood vessels, incision into the cornea when removing cataracts and iridectomy under the operating microscope are recommended. Local anaesthesia is advisable, has however the risk of a retrobulbar hematoma. Thromboplastin time (Quick) under 15% of the norm should be avoided, and only raised in cooperation with the responsible internist.", "contents": "[Surgery on the eye under anticoagulative therapy (author's transl)]. Surgery on the eye of patients on long term anticoagulation therapy is possible. To avoid bleeding suprarenin solution 1:1000, coagulation of conjunctival and scleral blood vessels, incision into the cornea when removing cataracts and iridectomy under the operating microscope are recommended. Local anaesthesia is advisable, has however the risk of a retrobulbar hematoma. Thromboplastin time (Quick) under 15% of the norm should be avoided, and only raised in cooperation with the responsible internist.", "PMID": 431009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_627", "title": "[The circulatory disturbance of the optic nerve with special reference to the side distribution and other dispositional factors (author's transl)].", "content": "We examined 38 patients with disturbed blood supply to the optic nerve. The observations suggest: 1. men are more frequently affected than women. 2. the first attack of apoplexia nervi optici occurs most often in the left eye. 3. diabetes mellitus and most probably arterial hypertension are risk factors.", "contents": "[The circulatory disturbance of the optic nerve with special reference to the side distribution and other dispositional factors (author's transl)]. We examined 38 patients with disturbed blood supply to the optic nerve. The observations suggest: 1. men are more frequently affected than women. 2. the first attack of apoplexia nervi optici occurs most often in the left eye. 3. diabetes mellitus and most probably arterial hypertension are risk factors.", "PMID": 431010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_628", "title": "[Changes of refraction following operations with episcleral plugs and encircling procedures in cases of retinal detachment (author's transl)].", "content": "Episcleral plugs reduce the circumference of the globe and cause an egg-shaped deformation; immediately after the operation the deformation seems to be more important than the circumference reduction. Out of 46 eyes operated on with episcleral silastic sponges or submitted to encircling procedures 3 developed hypermetropisation, and 35 myopisation; in 8 cases the refraction did not change.", "contents": "[Changes of refraction following operations with episcleral plugs and encircling procedures in cases of retinal detachment (author's transl)]. Episcleral plugs reduce the circumference of the globe and cause an egg-shaped deformation; immediately after the operation the deformation seems to be more important than the circumference reduction. Out of 46 eyes operated on with episcleral silastic sponges or submitted to encircling procedures 3 developed hypermetropisation, and 35 myopisation; in 8 cases the refraction did not change.", "PMID": 431011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_629", "title": "[The application of highly hydrophilic contact lenses in the Fuchs-Steven-Johnson syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "In 3 patients with status after Fuchs-Steven-Johnson syndrome highly hydrophilic contact lenses (72% H2O-up take) were adapted and worn permanently. 2 patients had worn already for a long time usual HEMA-lenses. The lenses showed themselves to be favorable against mechanical irritation from cilia and accessory eyelashes and from scarring conjunctival conditions, and they affected favorably the signs of dessication of the cornea. Corneal defects healed, and the patients had subjectively no complaints. It is sometimes necessary to replace the tears. An increase in the corneal vascularisation already present could not be observed during the 18 months observation time.", "contents": "[The application of highly hydrophilic contact lenses in the Fuchs-Steven-Johnson syndrome (author's transl)]. In 3 patients with status after Fuchs-Steven-Johnson syndrome highly hydrophilic contact lenses (72% H2O-up take) were adapted and worn permanently. 2 patients had worn already for a long time usual HEMA-lenses. The lenses showed themselves to be favorable against mechanical irritation from cilia and accessory eyelashes and from scarring conjunctival conditions, and they affected favorably the signs of dessication of the cornea. Corneal defects healed, and the patients had subjectively no complaints. It is sometimes necessary to replace the tears. An increase in the corneal vascularisation already present could not be observed during the 18 months observation time.", "PMID": 431012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_630", "title": "[Spontaneous hyphaema in the senium (author's transl)].", "content": "Two case reports are given of \"spontaneous\" hyphaema in the anterior chamber of eye of two elderly women-patients. Haemorrhages as well per diapedesin as per rhexin, possibly by biotropic influence of weather, or possibly also a reflux into Schlemm's canal, too, are discussed for aetiology. There are no pathological laboratory findings.", "contents": "[Spontaneous hyphaema in the senium (author's transl)]. Two case reports are given of \"spontaneous\" hyphaema in the anterior chamber of eye of two elderly women-patients. Haemorrhages as well per diapedesin as per rhexin, possibly by biotropic influence of weather, or possibly also a reflux into Schlemm's canal, too, are discussed for aetiology. There are no pathological laboratory findings.", "PMID": 431013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_631", "title": "[Massive subretinal fat and lipoid deposits (author's transl)].", "content": "Both in exsudative retinitis (Coats disease 4 cases [presumed angioma of the chorioid in 1 case]), and in the exsudative form of senile macular degeneration (1 case), massive subretinal fat and lipoid deposits were observed. These form a yellowish central disc approximately between the upper and lower lateral retinal vessels. The centre of the subretinal depositis, and therefore the highest point of retinal detachment (3 dioptres), appears white.", "contents": "[Massive subretinal fat and lipoid deposits (author's transl)]. Both in exsudative retinitis (Coats disease 4 cases [presumed angioma of the chorioid in 1 case]), and in the exsudative form of senile macular degeneration (1 case), massive subretinal fat and lipoid deposits were observed. These form a yellowish central disc approximately between the upper and lower lateral retinal vessels. The centre of the subretinal depositis, and therefore the highest point of retinal detachment (3 dioptres), appears white.", "PMID": 431014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_632", "title": "[Coating of artificial lens with methylcellulose (author's transl)].", "content": "The corneal haze which in the past often followed lens implantation was clearly decreased by applying one drop of a 1% solution of methylcellulose into the lens immediately prior to its insertion. It is surmised that by coating the lens in this way injury to the corneal endothelium is prevented. Methylcellulose caused little if any rise of intraocular pressure postoperatively.--The preparation of a sterile solution of methylcellulose is described in detail. Finally, it is important to stress that--in addition to applying methylcellulose--one should always attempt to work under an air bubble.", "contents": "[Coating of artificial lens with methylcellulose (author's transl)]. The corneal haze which in the past often followed lens implantation was clearly decreased by applying one drop of a 1% solution of methylcellulose into the lens immediately prior to its insertion. It is surmised that by coating the lens in this way injury to the corneal endothelium is prevented. Methylcellulose caused little if any rise of intraocular pressure postoperatively.--The preparation of a sterile solution of methylcellulose is described in detail. Finally, it is important to stress that--in addition to applying methylcellulose--one should always attempt to work under an air bubble.", "PMID": 431015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_633", "title": "[On the peripheral refraction of the human eye (author's transl)].", "content": "As the measurements of the peripheral refraction of the living human eye published till now point out a confusing abundance of variants but no clear results, the peripheral refraction of fictitious model eyes is computed to find out which components influence the refraction and how they do it. Then for some special selected representative eyes the peripheral refraction and the astigmatism are computed and the results analyzed. The result consists in three typical refractioncurves which can be reduced to simple rules. This paper intends to stimulate future experiments on exactly defined conditions.", "contents": "[On the peripheral refraction of the human eye (author's transl)]. As the measurements of the peripheral refraction of the living human eye published till now point out a confusing abundance of variants but no clear results, the peripheral refraction of fictitious model eyes is computed to find out which components influence the refraction and how they do it. Then for some special selected representative eyes the peripheral refraction and the astigmatism are computed and the results analyzed. The result consists in three typical refractioncurves which can be reduced to simple rules. This paper intends to stimulate future experiments on exactly defined conditions.", "PMID": 431016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_634", "title": "[The polaroid SX 70 camera for photodocumentation in ophthalmologist practice (author's transl)].", "content": "The polaroid SX 70-camera with slight modifications is being described as an instrument for photographic representation of skin and lid diseases. It may also be used for photography of anterior eye diseases, however it cannot replace slit-light-photography. The possibilities of the camera are demonstrated by a series of photographs.", "contents": "[The polaroid SX 70 camera for photodocumentation in ophthalmologist practice (author's transl)]. The polaroid SX 70-camera with slight modifications is being described as an instrument for photographic representation of skin and lid diseases. It may also be used for photography of anterior eye diseases, however it cannot replace slit-light-photography. The possibilities of the camera are demonstrated by a series of photographs.", "PMID": 431017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_635", "title": "[Patients on dialysis--late fundus controls (author's transl)].", "content": "In 102 patients on dialysis for renal failure late fundus controls have been done to studie the response of retinal vessels to blood pressure reduction. In 52 patients follow up studies were possible. Only 4 patients showed reversible changes of the vessels, in 4 other patients changes increased. In the majority of the patients hypertensive vascular changes (stage I or II) remained unchanged. Young age and deep diastolic pressure seems to be necessary for normalization of the fundus vessels. Vessel changes did not improve if the diastolic pressure was 90--100 mmHg and more.", "contents": "[Patients on dialysis--late fundus controls (author's transl)]. In 102 patients on dialysis for renal failure late fundus controls have been done to studie the response of retinal vessels to blood pressure reduction. In 52 patients follow up studies were possible. Only 4 patients showed reversible changes of the vessels, in 4 other patients changes increased. In the majority of the patients hypertensive vascular changes (stage I or II) remained unchanged. Young age and deep diastolic pressure seems to be necessary for normalization of the fundus vessels. Vessel changes did not improve if the diastolic pressure was 90--100 mmHg and more.", "PMID": 431018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_636", "title": "[Adie's syndrome from a neurological standpoint (author's transl)].", "content": "The findings in 22 examinations of tonic pupils, 15 of which presented Adie's syndrome, are described. The neurological and chemical as well as liquor analyses are normal except for the well known tendon reflex anomalies. Neurophysiologically, in 7 of 10 examinations mild disruptions in the sensory nerve conduction velocity were observed. The literature of the last 10 years, where it is of interest from a neurological standpoint and where it relates to the site of damage or to the origin of the tendon reflex abnormalities in Adie's syndrome, is discussed. Adie's syndrome is interpreted as damage to the peripheral nervous system in a polyneuropathic form.", "contents": "[Adie's syndrome from a neurological standpoint (author's transl)]. The findings in 22 examinations of tonic pupils, 15 of which presented Adie's syndrome, are described. The neurological and chemical as well as liquor analyses are normal except for the well known tendon reflex anomalies. Neurophysiologically, in 7 of 10 examinations mild disruptions in the sensory nerve conduction velocity were observed. The literature of the last 10 years, where it is of interest from a neurological standpoint and where it relates to the site of damage or to the origin of the tendon reflex abnormalities in Adie's syndrome, is discussed. Adie's syndrome is interpreted as damage to the peripheral nervous system in a polyneuropathic form.", "PMID": 431019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_637", "title": "[Contribution to the epithelial tumors of the ciliary body (clinical, histopathological and electronmicroscopical observation) (author's transl)].", "content": "An adenoma of the non pigmented epithelium of the ciliary body was supposed to be an irisciliary body melanoma (32P-test positive) and was treated by irido-cyclectomy. Vision acuity remained 0,4 one year after operation. The tumor formed adenoid tubes lined with a cubical or cylindrical epithelium. The cytoplasm of all tumorcells was threaded with compactly arranged tonofilaments. The histopathological examination showed unequivocal the benignant character of this tumor. Nevertheless the tumorcells were infiltrating the deep scleral layer in one place. Also the lens was deformed by the tumor and developed a local opacity in the periphery. It is refered to the difficulty of a clear histopathological distinction between adenomas, adenocarcinomas and pseudo-adenomatous hyperplasia of the ciliary body (Fuchs adenoma).", "contents": "[Contribution to the epithelial tumors of the ciliary body (clinical, histopathological and electronmicroscopical observation) (author's transl)]. An adenoma of the non pigmented epithelium of the ciliary body was supposed to be an irisciliary body melanoma (32P-test positive) and was treated by irido-cyclectomy. Vision acuity remained 0,4 one year after operation. The tumor formed adenoid tubes lined with a cubical or cylindrical epithelium. The cytoplasm of all tumorcells was threaded with compactly arranged tonofilaments. The histopathological examination showed unequivocal the benignant character of this tumor. Nevertheless the tumorcells were infiltrating the deep scleral layer in one place. Also the lens was deformed by the tumor and developed a local opacity in the periphery. It is refered to the difficulty of a clear histopathological distinction between adenomas, adenocarcinomas and pseudo-adenomatous hyperplasia of the ciliary body (Fuchs adenoma).", "PMID": 431020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_638", "title": "[Strabogenesis in case of low hypermetropia, in addition a simple comparison test to detect aniseikonia (author's transl)].", "content": "Author attempts to explain the rise of infantile convergent squint, when the hypermetropia is less than 3,5 diopter. In such cases the low hypermetropia is relative in the sense of Donders, because a sometimes isometropic aniseikonia prevents the fusion. To examine the aniseikonia he recommands a very simple procedure, the comparison test, carried out joined to the cover test.", "contents": "[Strabogenesis in case of low hypermetropia, in addition a simple comparison test to detect aniseikonia (author's transl)]. Author attempts to explain the rise of infantile convergent squint, when the hypermetropia is less than 3,5 diopter. In such cases the low hypermetropia is relative in the sense of Donders, because a sometimes isometropic aniseikonia prevents the fusion. To examine the aniseikonia he recommands a very simple procedure, the comparison test, carried out joined to the cover test.", "PMID": 431021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_639", "title": "[A comparative study of the reflective and apperceptive refractions (author's transl)].", "content": "Reflective (objective) refraction differs basically from apperceptive (subjective) refraction in that it excludes conscious seeing from the measuring procedure. As a result limits can be established for the subjective acceptability of refraction values with automatic or manual refractometers. In a comparative study of 50 cases the correction values obtained with the manual refractometer PR 50 (Rodenstock) and the automatic refractometers Dioptron (Coherent Radiation) and Auto-refractor 6600 (Acuity Systems) were compared with the results of conventional subjective refraction. Criterion for this comparison was the visual acuity achieved with the correction values. In 55% of the cases the same, in some cases even better visual acuity was achieved than with subjective refraction. In the other 45% a direct comparison of the reflective and the subjective refraction values shows which component (sphere, cylinder) of the refractometer correction value leads to a lower visual acuity.", "contents": "[A comparative study of the reflective and apperceptive refractions (author's transl)]. Reflective (objective) refraction differs basically from apperceptive (subjective) refraction in that it excludes conscious seeing from the measuring procedure. As a result limits can be established for the subjective acceptability of refraction values with automatic or manual refractometers. In a comparative study of 50 cases the correction values obtained with the manual refractometer PR 50 (Rodenstock) and the automatic refractometers Dioptron (Coherent Radiation) and Auto-refractor 6600 (Acuity Systems) were compared with the results of conventional subjective refraction. Criterion for this comparison was the visual acuity achieved with the correction values. In 55% of the cases the same, in some cases even better visual acuity was achieved than with subjective refraction. In the other 45% a direct comparison of the reflective and the subjective refraction values shows which component (sphere, cylinder) of the refractometer correction value leads to a lower visual acuity.", "PMID": 431022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_640", "title": "[Indications and results of the tenotomy of the superior oblique (author's transl)].", "content": "The tenotomy or tenectomy of an overactive superior oblique produces a similar effect as an elongation of the tendon. Its efficiency cannot be compared with the tenotomy or myotomy of an overactive inferior oblique or rectus muscle. No discernible underaction or complete paralysis of the superior oblique are to be feared, if the surgical indication and technique are correct. We prefer the tenotomizing of the overactive superior oblique to the recession of its insertion. Commonly, but still not always, the overaction of the superior obliques is associated with an A syndrome. Besides, the tenotomy and tenectomy of the superior oblique may be useful in true Brown's syndrome and as an additional procedure in cases of paralysis of the two elevators of one eye, During the past four years this operation was done 32 times on 24 patients. In none of these cases an insufficiency of the superior oblique was produced.", "contents": "[Indications and results of the tenotomy of the superior oblique (author's transl)]. The tenotomy or tenectomy of an overactive superior oblique produces a similar effect as an elongation of the tendon. Its efficiency cannot be compared with the tenotomy or myotomy of an overactive inferior oblique or rectus muscle. No discernible underaction or complete paralysis of the superior oblique are to be feared, if the surgical indication and technique are correct. We prefer the tenotomizing of the overactive superior oblique to the recession of its insertion. Commonly, but still not always, the overaction of the superior obliques is associated with an A syndrome. Besides, the tenotomy and tenectomy of the superior oblique may be useful in true Brown's syndrome and as an additional procedure in cases of paralysis of the two elevators of one eye, During the past four years this operation was done 32 times on 24 patients. In none of these cases an insufficiency of the superior oblique was produced.", "PMID": 431023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_641", "title": "[Operative treatment of Duane's syndrome associated with extreme vertical divergence (author's transl)].", "content": "In following an operative treatment of Daune's-Syndrome associated with extreme vertical divergence is described. During operation the external rectus muscle is recessed and inserted lower due to anatomical anomalies. This is performed by a little known method described by A. B. Scott. Our results are very satisfactory. Psychical alterations associated with these disorders also could be sucessfully managed.", "contents": "[Operative treatment of Duane's syndrome associated with extreme vertical divergence (author's transl)]. In following an operative treatment of Daune's-Syndrome associated with extreme vertical divergence is described. During operation the external rectus muscle is recessed and inserted lower due to anatomical anomalies. This is performed by a little known method described by A. B. Scott. Our results are very satisfactory. Psychical alterations associated with these disorders also could be sucessfully managed.", "PMID": 431024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_642", "title": "[Recurring pterygium. Modifying the operation with conjunctivo plasty to guard against recurrence (author's transl)].", "content": "Simple conjunctivoplasty is recommended as a good modification of the pterygium operation. With this modification only a small number of recurrences were seen in a large number of operated cases.", "contents": "[Recurring pterygium. Modifying the operation with conjunctivo plasty to guard against recurrence (author's transl)]. Simple conjunctivoplasty is recommended as a good modification of the pterygium operation. With this modification only a small number of recurrences were seen in a large number of operated cases.", "PMID": 431025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_643", "title": "[The determination of IgE in human aqueous humor in a case of intraocular parasitosis (ophthalmomviasis interna) (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of intraocular myasis is here reported, as well as the difficulties of diagnosis--mostly too late--of this disease, which is rare in Europe and the northern hemisphere and which leads, almost invariably, to functional or even anatomical loss of the eye.--The determination of IgE in human aqueous humor (ah) and corresponding serum (s) by means of the ultrasensitive and quite simple PRIST method could represent a possibility of timely diagnosis, and this theoretically too in the case of other, much more frequent oculoparasitosis cases.--A retrospective study of the preoperative aqueous humor of the ophthalmomyiasis case presented here revealed an IgE concentration of 113 U/ml in the aqueous humor, with only 3 U/ml (1 U congruent to 2 ng) in the corresponding serum. A simple serum-IgES-determination would not have permitted the diagnosis--at least not in the case examined--just as little as numeration of eosinophilic granulocytes in blood and/or aqueous humor.", "contents": "[The determination of IgE in human aqueous humor in a case of intraocular parasitosis (ophthalmomviasis interna) (author's transl)]. A case of intraocular myasis is here reported, as well as the difficulties of diagnosis--mostly too late--of this disease, which is rare in Europe and the northern hemisphere and which leads, almost invariably, to functional or even anatomical loss of the eye.--The determination of IgE in human aqueous humor (ah) and corresponding serum (s) by means of the ultrasensitive and quite simple PRIST method could represent a possibility of timely diagnosis, and this theoretically too in the case of other, much more frequent oculoparasitosis cases.--A retrospective study of the preoperative aqueous humor of the ophthalmomyiasis case presented here revealed an IgE concentration of 113 U/ml in the aqueous humor, with only 3 U/ml (1 U congruent to 2 ng) in the corresponding serum. A simple serum-IgES-determination would not have permitted the diagnosis--at least not in the case examined--just as little as numeration of eosinophilic granulocytes in blood and/or aqueous humor.", "PMID": 431026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_644", "title": "[HEMA-contact lens and HEMA-dressing lens-damage to the eye (author's transl)].", "content": "3 cases in which HEMA-contact lens, and 2 cases in which HEMA-dressing lens caused corneal damage were analyzed with regard to symptomatology, etiology and sequence of events. Hyperemia of the limbus is the main symptom. Avoidable causes are exaggerated tightness, overwearing, storing up of proteins, rough surface, and incompatibility of soft-lens solutions. Irreversible and largely resistant to therapy is, damage resulting from the synthetic itself.", "contents": "[HEMA-contact lens and HEMA-dressing lens-damage to the eye (author's transl)]. 3 cases in which HEMA-contact lens, and 2 cases in which HEMA-dressing lens caused corneal damage were analyzed with regard to symptomatology, etiology and sequence of events. Hyperemia of the limbus is the main symptom. Avoidable causes are exaggerated tightness, overwearing, storing up of proteins, rough surface, and incompatibility of soft-lens solutions. Irreversible and largely resistant to therapy is, damage resulting from the synthetic itself.", "PMID": 431027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_645", "title": "[Aqueous outflow following seton operations (author's transl)].", "content": "In 6 rabbits which had been submitted to a seton operation 2--6 months previously, the mode of aqueous outflow has been documented photographically after injection of fluorescein into the anterior chamber. In all 6 cases the catheter allowed direct passage of aqueous humour through its lumen into the subconjunctival space; further sources of diffuse aqueous egress were provable at the site of the corneo-slceral wound, either next to the catheter or aside from it. Additional drainage via preformed channels occurred through lymphatic vessels as well as through secondary aqueous veins.", "contents": "[Aqueous outflow following seton operations (author's transl)]. In 6 rabbits which had been submitted to a seton operation 2--6 months previously, the mode of aqueous outflow has been documented photographically after injection of fluorescein into the anterior chamber. In all 6 cases the catheter allowed direct passage of aqueous humour through its lumen into the subconjunctival space; further sources of diffuse aqueous egress were provable at the site of the corneo-slceral wound, either next to the catheter or aside from it. Additional drainage via preformed channels occurred through lymphatic vessels as well as through secondary aqueous veins.", "PMID": 431028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_646", "title": "[On the clinical picture of Asteroid hyalitis (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical data of 98 cases (104 eyes) of Asteroid hyalitis are reported and found to be similar to those of previous publications. As to etiology no certain evidence for an underlying general disease is available from the literature. The disease is found to be very rare in myopic eyes, which supports the occurrence of a local determinating factor.", "contents": "[On the clinical picture of Asteroid hyalitis (author's transl)]. The clinical data of 98 cases (104 eyes) of Asteroid hyalitis are reported and found to be similar to those of previous publications. As to etiology no certain evidence for an underlying general disease is available from the literature. The disease is found to be very rare in myopic eyes, which supports the occurrence of a local determinating factor.", "PMID": 431029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_647", "title": "[Diagnostic value of muscle biopsy findings in myotonic dystrophy (Curschmann-Steinert) (author's transl)].", "content": "By histological, enzyme histochemical, histometrical and ultrastructural studies of 15 muscle biopsies from patients with myotonic dystrophy the typical morphological picture of a myopathy with multiple internal nuclei, sarcoplasmic masses and ring fibers can be shown only in 7 cases with very severe or prolonged clinical course. There is fiber degeneration under the sarcolemma which corresponds to findings in myopathies caused by hypothyroidism. Type-I-fiber-atrophy, which is thought to be an early morphological sign of the disease. can be demonstrated in our material only in proximal muscle groups, especially biceps muscle, whereas tibialis anterior muscle shows a slight focal atrophy of both mean fiber types, which is not helpful for differential diagnosis. Therefore in early cases of myotonic dystrophy which are not clarified by clinical and electromyographic investigation, a biopsy of biceps muscle should be done. Advanced cases as a rule can be confirmed by EMG without muscle biopsy. The morphological differential diagnosis of type-I-fiber-atrophy and the similarities of fiber degeneration under the sarcolemma in myotonic dystrophy as well as in myopathy caused by hypothyroidism are discussed.", "contents": "[Diagnostic value of muscle biopsy findings in myotonic dystrophy (Curschmann-Steinert) (author's transl)]. By histological, enzyme histochemical, histometrical and ultrastructural studies of 15 muscle biopsies from patients with myotonic dystrophy the typical morphological picture of a myopathy with multiple internal nuclei, sarcoplasmic masses and ring fibers can be shown only in 7 cases with very severe or prolonged clinical course. There is fiber degeneration under the sarcolemma which corresponds to findings in myopathies caused by hypothyroidism. Type-I-fiber-atrophy, which is thought to be an early morphological sign of the disease. can be demonstrated in our material only in proximal muscle groups, especially biceps muscle, whereas tibialis anterior muscle shows a slight focal atrophy of both mean fiber types, which is not helpful for differential diagnosis. Therefore in early cases of myotonic dystrophy which are not clarified by clinical and electromyographic investigation, a biopsy of biceps muscle should be done. Advanced cases as a rule can be confirmed by EMG without muscle biopsy. The morphological differential diagnosis of type-I-fiber-atrophy and the similarities of fiber degeneration under the sarcolemma in myotonic dystrophy as well as in myopathy caused by hypothyroidism are discussed.", "PMID": 431031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_648", "title": "[Radioimmunoassay for human myoglobin: methodology and diagnostic significance in myocardial infarction (author's transl)].", "content": "A radioimmunoassay was developed to determine serum myoglobin (SMb). 50 healthy persons showed values between 0 and 90 ng/ml. Serial tests of 10 patients following acute myocardial infarction or during angina pectoris (AP) indicated that SMb reached pathological values before CK and CK-MB (average 250 +/- 95 ng/ml at the time of hospitalisation which corresponds to 3.3 +/- 1.4 h after beginning of angina pectoris). At hospitalisation the simultaneously determined CK was within normal limits and reached pathological values only 6.2 +/- 1.9 h after the onset of angina. Maximum of SMb was 506 +/- 194 ng/ml occurring 8.8 +/- 2.8 h after beginning of AP, maximum of CK was 905 +/- 475 mU/ml occurring 20.0 +/- 7.8 h after AP. CK-MB and CK differed only slightly in their time course. One patient with severe AP had pathologically increased SMb values whilst all other enzymes were completely normal. Methodical and clinical results are discussed.", "contents": "[Radioimmunoassay for human myoglobin: methodology and diagnostic significance in myocardial infarction (author's transl)]. A radioimmunoassay was developed to determine serum myoglobin (SMb). 50 healthy persons showed values between 0 and 90 ng/ml. Serial tests of 10 patients following acute myocardial infarction or during angina pectoris (AP) indicated that SMb reached pathological values before CK and CK-MB (average 250 +/- 95 ng/ml at the time of hospitalisation which corresponds to 3.3 +/- 1.4 h after beginning of angina pectoris). At hospitalisation the simultaneously determined CK was within normal limits and reached pathological values only 6.2 +/- 1.9 h after the onset of angina. Maximum of SMb was 506 +/- 194 ng/ml occurring 8.8 +/- 2.8 h after beginning of AP, maximum of CK was 905 +/- 475 mU/ml occurring 20.0 +/- 7.8 h after AP. CK-MB and CK differed only slightly in their time course. One patient with severe AP had pathologically increased SMb values whilst all other enzymes were completely normal. Methodical and clinical results are discussed.", "PMID": 431032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_649", "title": "Kinetics of elimination of thiocyanate in 7 healthy subjects and in 8 subjects with renal failure.", "content": "The concentration of thiocyanate in the serum of eight test subjects with renal failure and seven healthy control subjects was measured, as it declined with time, after oral doses of thiocyanate or i.v. injections of nitroprusside had been administered. Additional measurements were taken, on the healthy subjects only, of the concentrations of thiocyanate in the urine, and also of the influence of an increased chloride intake on the rate of elimination of thiocyanate. For the healthy subjects an elimination half-life of between one and five days (mean c. 3 days) was found. Increasing the chloride elimination rate to approximately twice normal did not significantly speed up the rate of thiocyanate elimination. The amounts of thiocyanate which had been administered as doses reappeared almost exclusively in the urine. For the subjects with renal failure, the elimination half-life had a mean value of approximately nine days. The elimination constants were found to be proportional to the creatinine-clearance rates. The ke value at a creatinine-clearance of zero ml/min was approximately 15% of the ke value at a creatinine-clearance rate of 120 ml/min. The distribution volumes for thiocyanate were greater for the patients with renal failure than for the healthy subjects. The conclusions for therapies using nitroprusside are discussed.", "contents": "Kinetics of elimination of thiocyanate in 7 healthy subjects and in 8 subjects with renal failure. The concentration of thiocyanate in the serum of eight test subjects with renal failure and seven healthy control subjects was measured, as it declined with time, after oral doses of thiocyanate or i.v. injections of nitroprusside had been administered. Additional measurements were taken, on the healthy subjects only, of the concentrations of thiocyanate in the urine, and also of the influence of an increased chloride intake on the rate of elimination of thiocyanate. For the healthy subjects an elimination half-life of between one and five days (mean c. 3 days) was found. Increasing the chloride elimination rate to approximately twice normal did not significantly speed up the rate of thiocyanate elimination. The amounts of thiocyanate which had been administered as doses reappeared almost exclusively in the urine. For the subjects with renal failure, the elimination half-life had a mean value of approximately nine days. The elimination constants were found to be proportional to the creatinine-clearance rates. The ke value at a creatinine-clearance of zero ml/min was approximately 15% of the ke value at a creatinine-clearance rate of 120 ml/min. The distribution volumes for thiocyanate were greater for the patients with renal failure than for the healthy subjects. The conclusions for therapies using nitroprusside are discussed.", "PMID": 431033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_650", "title": "C-cell hyperplasia and medullary thyroid carcinoma in the rat. An immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis.", "content": "Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a distinctive neoplasm which is derived from the calcitonin-producing intrathyroidal C-cell system and which develops commonly in untreated rats of various strains. Thyroid glands of Long-Evans rats ranging in age from 3 months to 3 years showed a spectrum of C-cell proliferative abnormalities. As compared to 3-month-old control rats, thyroids from 9- to 12-month-old animals exhibited mild diffuse C-cell hyperplasia (CCH). Thyroids from animals ranging from 1 to 3 years of age exhibited progressively more severe C-cell abnormalities including severe diffuse CCH, nodular CCH, and/or MTC. In contrast to the normal basal serum calcitonin levels in controls and in animals with mild diffuse CCH, animals with severe diffuse CCH, nodular CCH, or MTC had elevated basal serum calcitonin values. Nodular CCH was characterized by the replacement and enlargement of individual follicles by C-cells. Larger foci of nodular CCH were characterized by similar changes in multiple adjacent follicles or by an irregular expansion of individual follicles. MTC was characterized by penetration of the follicular basal lamina by C-cells with extension into the adjacent thyroid stroma. In addition to the high incidence of thyroidal C-cell abnormalities, diffuse and/or nodular parathyroid hyperplasia was commonly found. There was no evidence of chronic renal failure in these animals, and the serum calcium levels were within normal limits. Although the stimulus for the initial C-cell proliferation remains unknown, the appearance of MTC is preceded by relatively prolonged phases of CCH. These findings are essentially identical with those noted in human familial MTC and indicate that the rat provides a useful model system for studying the regulation of C-cell proliferation during the processes of neoplastic development and progression.", "contents": "C-cell hyperplasia and medullary thyroid carcinoma in the rat. An immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis. Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a distinctive neoplasm which is derived from the calcitonin-producing intrathyroidal C-cell system and which develops commonly in untreated rats of various strains. Thyroid glands of Long-Evans rats ranging in age from 3 months to 3 years showed a spectrum of C-cell proliferative abnormalities. As compared to 3-month-old control rats, thyroids from 9- to 12-month-old animals exhibited mild diffuse C-cell hyperplasia (CCH). Thyroids from animals ranging from 1 to 3 years of age exhibited progressively more severe C-cell abnormalities including severe diffuse CCH, nodular CCH, and/or MTC. In contrast to the normal basal serum calcitonin levels in controls and in animals with mild diffuse CCH, animals with severe diffuse CCH, nodular CCH, or MTC had elevated basal serum calcitonin values. Nodular CCH was characterized by the replacement and enlargement of individual follicles by C-cells. Larger foci of nodular CCH were characterized by similar changes in multiple adjacent follicles or by an irregular expansion of individual follicles. MTC was characterized by penetration of the follicular basal lamina by C-cells with extension into the adjacent thyroid stroma. In addition to the high incidence of thyroidal C-cell abnormalities, diffuse and/or nodular parathyroid hyperplasia was commonly found. There was no evidence of chronic renal failure in these animals, and the serum calcium levels were within normal limits. Although the stimulus for the initial C-cell proliferation remains unknown, the appearance of MTC is preceded by relatively prolonged phases of CCH. These findings are essentially identical with those noted in human familial MTC and indicate that the rat provides a useful model system for studying the regulation of C-cell proliferation during the processes of neoplastic development and progression.", "PMID": 431034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_651", "title": "Dissolution of human cholesterol gallstones in vitro with bile salts. A scanning and stereoscanning electron microscopic study.", "content": "This report deals with the in vitro dissolution of cholesterol gallstones by bile salts, as observed with the scanning electron microscope. Scanning electron microscopic techniques permit excellent visualization of the substructure of these stones and hence allow insight into the structural basis of gallstone dissolution. The small faceted, mixed cholesterol gallstone was used since this is the most common type clinically. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the gallstone has four structurally different zones; an outer surface, a cortex of compactly layered cholesterol plates, an inner layer of cholesterol mixed with other components, and a center or nidus. The cortex is of particular importance in terms of gallstone dissolution with bile salts, since the interior of the stone remains unaffected until this zone is removed. The speed and completeness of dissolution of the stone depends mainly upon the thickness of the cortex and in part upon the content of noncholesterol components in the interior of the stone. Chenodeoxycholate and cholate behave similarly in terms of the dissolution process as observed by scanning electron microscopy. The solubilization process is very similar to that observed in vitro with solvents such as ether and ethanol. Stones treated with 400 mM cholate were completely solubilized in 3 weeks. The process described in this paper is probably similar to that which occurs in vivo in spontaneous gallstone dissolution in man and in patients treated with bile salts for gallstone dissolution.", "contents": "Dissolution of human cholesterol gallstones in vitro with bile salts. A scanning and stereoscanning electron microscopic study. This report deals with the in vitro dissolution of cholesterol gallstones by bile salts, as observed with the scanning electron microscope. Scanning electron microscopic techniques permit excellent visualization of the substructure of these stones and hence allow insight into the structural basis of gallstone dissolution. The small faceted, mixed cholesterol gallstone was used since this is the most common type clinically. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the gallstone has four structurally different zones; an outer surface, a cortex of compactly layered cholesterol plates, an inner layer of cholesterol mixed with other components, and a center or nidus. The cortex is of particular importance in terms of gallstone dissolution with bile salts, since the interior of the stone remains unaffected until this zone is removed. The speed and completeness of dissolution of the stone depends mainly upon the thickness of the cortex and in part upon the content of noncholesterol components in the interior of the stone. Chenodeoxycholate and cholate behave similarly in terms of the dissolution process as observed by scanning electron microscopy. The solubilization process is very similar to that observed in vitro with solvents such as ether and ethanol. Stones treated with 400 mM cholate were completely solubilized in 3 weeks. The process described in this paper is probably similar to that which occurs in vivo in spontaneous gallstone dissolution in man and in patients treated with bile salts for gallstone dissolution.", "PMID": 431035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_652", "title": "Endocardial alterations in myocardial infarction.", "content": "Transmural infarcts of the ventrolateral wall of canine left ventricle were produced by ligation of the ventral interventricular (anterior descending) branch of the left coronary artery. Endocardium from these infarcted hearts was sampled at sites corresponding to the infarct center and periphery, and to uninfarcted (normal) area at 24 and 48 hours after ligation, and examined by correlative scanning and transmission electron microscopy and by light microscopy. Endocardial samples from sham-ligated hearts were included as a further control. Striking alterations were observed in the endocardium that lined infarcted myocardium. There was endothelial desquamation coextensive with leukocytic invasion. Leukocytes appeared to initiate sloughing by separating the endothelial cells from their basal lamina and partially from one another. The latter cells desquamated in sheets, leaving behind a denuded basal lamina. Although altered in form, the individual endothelial cells seemed to remain largely intact. Denuded subendothelial surfaces only rarely contained thrombi. In areas where the cardiac endothelium was altered, the subjacent subendocardium, myocardium, and usually the remainder of the endocardium also showed leukocytic exudate. Samples from uninfarcted regions showed an intact, leukocyte-free endocardium, as did the sham-ligated controls. The appearance of abnormal endocardium was qualitatively similar wherever found, whether in different areas of the same heart or from one heart to another, and regardless of age of infarct. In 48-hour infarcts, almost all of the central and most of the peripheral samples exhibited the changes described. The data suggested a similar pattern for hearts with 24-hour infarcts. By locating biopsy sites in frozen cardiac sections processed for histologic staining and 201-thallium autoradiography, the electron microscopy results were shown to correlate with the intramural histopathologic topography of the infarcts. The alterations described here represent the endocardial manifestation of the inflammatory stage of transmural infarcts, known to be well developed in 1- and 2-day-old lesions.", "contents": "Endocardial alterations in myocardial infarction. Transmural infarcts of the ventrolateral wall of canine left ventricle were produced by ligation of the ventral interventricular (anterior descending) branch of the left coronary artery. Endocardium from these infarcted hearts was sampled at sites corresponding to the infarct center and periphery, and to uninfarcted (normal) area at 24 and 48 hours after ligation, and examined by correlative scanning and transmission electron microscopy and by light microscopy. Endocardial samples from sham-ligated hearts were included as a further control. Striking alterations were observed in the endocardium that lined infarcted myocardium. There was endothelial desquamation coextensive with leukocytic invasion. Leukocytes appeared to initiate sloughing by separating the endothelial cells from their basal lamina and partially from one another. The latter cells desquamated in sheets, leaving behind a denuded basal lamina. Although altered in form, the individual endothelial cells seemed to remain largely intact. Denuded subendothelial surfaces only rarely contained thrombi. In areas where the cardiac endothelium was altered, the subjacent subendocardium, myocardium, and usually the remainder of the endocardium also showed leukocytic exudate. Samples from uninfarcted regions showed an intact, leukocyte-free endocardium, as did the sham-ligated controls. The appearance of abnormal endocardium was qualitatively similar wherever found, whether in different areas of the same heart or from one heart to another, and regardless of age of infarct. In 48-hour infarcts, almost all of the central and most of the peripheral samples exhibited the changes described. The data suggested a similar pattern for hearts with 24-hour infarcts. By locating biopsy sites in frozen cardiac sections processed for histologic staining and 201-thallium autoradiography, the electron microscopy results were shown to correlate with the intramural histopathologic topography of the infarcts. The alterations described here represent the endocardial manifestation of the inflammatory stage of transmural infarcts, known to be well developed in 1- and 2-day-old lesions.", "PMID": 431037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_653", "title": "Platelet interaction with damaged rabbit aorta.", "content": "We have quantified the accumulation of 51Cr-labeled washed rabbit platelets on the subendothelium of rabbit aortae following injury with a balloon catheter. The amount of radioactivity that became associated with the damaged wall within 10 minutes of the injury did not change appreciably during the following 24 hours, indicating that there was little turnover of platelets on the injured vessel wall. In addition, by injecting 51Cr-labeled platelets into rabbits at different times after injury, it was possible to estimate the reactivity of the exposed surface to newly injected platelets. Scanning electron microscopy showed that a monolayer of platelets initially formed on the injured surface; the number of platelets associated with the surface decreased over the 7-day observation period. The amount of 51Cr associated with the injured vessel wall also diminished during this period. The ability of the damaged surface to attract fresh platelets gradually decreased during the 7 days following injury. Platelet survival in rabbits was not significantly reduced following the removal of the aortic endothelium (balloon catheter injury 66.3 +/- 12.2 hours, sham operated 72.1 +/- 7.2 hours, untreated controls 76.2 +/- 3.8 hours). Thus, in rabbits, it cannot be assumed that platelet survival provides an estimate of endothelial injury in all circumstances.", "contents": "Platelet interaction with damaged rabbit aorta. We have quantified the accumulation of 51Cr-labeled washed rabbit platelets on the subendothelium of rabbit aortae following injury with a balloon catheter. The amount of radioactivity that became associated with the damaged wall within 10 minutes of the injury did not change appreciably during the following 24 hours, indicating that there was little turnover of platelets on the injured vessel wall. In addition, by injecting 51Cr-labeled platelets into rabbits at different times after injury, it was possible to estimate the reactivity of the exposed surface to newly injected platelets. Scanning electron microscopy showed that a monolayer of platelets initially formed on the injured surface; the number of platelets associated with the surface decreased over the 7-day observation period. The amount of 51Cr associated with the injured vessel wall also diminished during this period. The ability of the damaged surface to attract fresh platelets gradually decreased during the 7 days following injury. Platelet survival in rabbits was not significantly reduced following the removal of the aortic endothelium (balloon catheter injury 66.3 +/- 12.2 hours, sham operated 72.1 +/- 7.2 hours, untreated controls 76.2 +/- 3.8 hours). Thus, in rabbits, it cannot be assumed that platelet survival provides an estimate of endothelial injury in all circumstances.", "PMID": 431038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_654", "title": "Abnormal collagen fibril structure in the gravis form (type I) of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "content": "The Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a clinically, genetically, and biochemically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by generalized connective tissue abnormalities. We studied collagen fibrils by electron microscopy in the dermis of nine individuals with clinical findings consistent with type I Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. In all patients the collagen fibrils had an increased mean diameter (13 to 40%) and showed a higher degree of variability in width and shape than collagen fibrils from controls. Approximately 5% of the fibrils were much wider (up to 500 nm. versus 90 nm.), had a highly irregular outline when viewed in cross-section, and were spiraled and fragmented in longitudinal view. The periodicity of banding was normal. The mode of inheritance was dominant in five patients, probably recessive in two, and could not be determined in the remaining two. Despite genetic heterogeneity among these patients with type I Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the ultrastructural findings are indistinguishable and do not allow discrimination in sporadic cases between the recessive and the more common dominant form. We conclude that abnormalities of fibrillogenesis are heterogeneous in origin; some might be due to primary defects in collagen whereas others may result from alterations of noncollagenous extracellular matrix components that influence collagen fibril formation.", "contents": "Abnormal collagen fibril structure in the gravis form (type I) of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a clinically, genetically, and biochemically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by generalized connective tissue abnormalities. We studied collagen fibrils by electron microscopy in the dermis of nine individuals with clinical findings consistent with type I Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. In all patients the collagen fibrils had an increased mean diameter (13 to 40%) and showed a higher degree of variability in width and shape than collagen fibrils from controls. Approximately 5% of the fibrils were much wider (up to 500 nm. versus 90 nm.), had a highly irregular outline when viewed in cross-section, and were spiraled and fragmented in longitudinal view. The periodicity of banding was normal. The mode of inheritance was dominant in five patients, probably recessive in two, and could not be determined in the remaining two. Despite genetic heterogeneity among these patients with type I Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the ultrastructural findings are indistinguishable and do not allow discrimination in sporadic cases between the recessive and the more common dominant form. We conclude that abnormalities of fibrillogenesis are heterogeneous in origin; some might be due to primary defects in collagen whereas others may result from alterations of noncollagenous extracellular matrix components that influence collagen fibril formation.", "PMID": 431039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_655", "title": "The localization of catalase in the pulmonary alveolar macrophage.", "content": "A combined biochemical and cytochemical study of catalase was performed on alveolar macrophages lavaged from the lungs of adult male rats. Biochemically, catalase activity was present in both a high-speed granule fraction and in the supernatant. The granule-associated activity exhibited latency. Two methods of cell breakage, sonication and homogenization, yielded similar levels and distributions of catalase activity. Catalase activity in whole cells was identified cytochemically by the alkaline diaminobenzidine method and was localized within membrane-lined cytoplasmic granules similar in size to microperoxisomes and associated with cisternae of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Localization of the reaction product was inhibited by 0.04 M aminotriazole, by cyanide, and by boiling prior to incubation. The cytochemical reaction continued in the absence of exogenous peroxide, but could be prevented by addition of catalase or pyruvate to the peroxide-free medium. Enzyme activity was also localized within a portion of the membrane-bound granules present in the cell fractions used for the biochemical assays.", "contents": "The localization of catalase in the pulmonary alveolar macrophage. A combined biochemical and cytochemical study of catalase was performed on alveolar macrophages lavaged from the lungs of adult male rats. Biochemically, catalase activity was present in both a high-speed granule fraction and in the supernatant. The granule-associated activity exhibited latency. Two methods of cell breakage, sonication and homogenization, yielded similar levels and distributions of catalase activity. Catalase activity in whole cells was identified cytochemically by the alkaline diaminobenzidine method and was localized within membrane-lined cytoplasmic granules similar in size to microperoxisomes and associated with cisternae of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Localization of the reaction product was inhibited by 0.04 M aminotriazole, by cyanide, and by boiling prior to incubation. The cytochemical reaction continued in the absence of exogenous peroxide, but could be prevented by addition of catalase or pyruvate to the peroxide-free medium. Enzyme activity was also localized within a portion of the membrane-bound granules present in the cell fractions used for the biochemical assays.", "PMID": 431040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_656", "title": "Glomerular fibrinolytic activity during nephrotoxic nephritis.", "content": "The glomerular fibrinolytic activity (GFA) was measured during the development of glomerulonephritis induced by the intravenous injection of horse or rabbit antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies in rats either untreated or preimmunized with horse or rabbit Ig. A variety of nephritides was produced ranging from proteinuria with no or mild changes in glomerular architecture to severe diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis with close to 100% crescent formation. GFA was measured on preparations of isolated glomeruli using a radioassay based on lysis of 125I fibrin adsorbed on a solid phase. In some experiments a fibrin plaque technique was also used. Both methods clearly demonstrated a marked increase in GFA with a good correlation between the two sets of results when the glomerular architecture is preserved. The increase in GFA is related both to the severity of the nephritis estimated by the percentage of glomeruli showing crescent formation and to the extent of the fibrin deposits. The results therefore indicate that the persistence of fibrin in the glomeruli and particularly in crescents is not due to a loss of GFA.", "contents": "Glomerular fibrinolytic activity during nephrotoxic nephritis. The glomerular fibrinolytic activity (GFA) was measured during the development of glomerulonephritis induced by the intravenous injection of horse or rabbit antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies in rats either untreated or preimmunized with horse or rabbit Ig. A variety of nephritides was produced ranging from proteinuria with no or mild changes in glomerular architecture to severe diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis with close to 100% crescent formation. GFA was measured on preparations of isolated glomeruli using a radioassay based on lysis of 125I fibrin adsorbed on a solid phase. In some experiments a fibrin plaque technique was also used. Both methods clearly demonstrated a marked increase in GFA with a good correlation between the two sets of results when the glomerular architecture is preserved. The increase in GFA is related both to the severity of the nephritis estimated by the percentage of glomeruli showing crescent formation and to the extent of the fibrin deposits. The results therefore indicate that the persistence of fibrin in the glomeruli and particularly in crescents is not due to a loss of GFA.", "PMID": 431041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_657", "title": "Experimental allergic neuritis. Ultrastructure of serum-induced myelin aberrations in peripheral nervous system cultures.", "content": "Mature myelinated cultures of mouse dorsal root ganglia (sometimes grown in combination with spinal cord tissue) have been exposed to unheated and heated (complement-inactivated) serum from rabbits with experimental allergic neuritis (EAN). Experimental cultures were examined for periods ranging from several hours to approximately 2 weeks of exposure. Some cultures were exposed to EAN serum for approximately 1 week then returned to normal medium for examination of the reversibility of the lesions. Unheated EAN serum induced demyelination of peripheral nervous system fibers within 96 hours of exposure. Following removal of the EAN serum, affected fibers remyelinated. Heated EAN serum produced a type of myelin swelling identical with that described previously in spinal cord explants exposed to serum from rabbits with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. The lamellar spacing of the peripheral nervous system meylin was increased to approximately 23 nm. and the normal bifilar intraperiod line was increased to four leaflets. Some hypermyelination was seen. The swelling was incompletely reversible following removal of the heated serum. These findings are discussed in terms of their relevance to immunemediated demyelination and peripheral neuropathy associated with the hypergammaglobulinemic states.", "contents": "Experimental allergic neuritis. Ultrastructure of serum-induced myelin aberrations in peripheral nervous system cultures. Mature myelinated cultures of mouse dorsal root ganglia (sometimes grown in combination with spinal cord tissue) have been exposed to unheated and heated (complement-inactivated) serum from rabbits with experimental allergic neuritis (EAN). Experimental cultures were examined for periods ranging from several hours to approximately 2 weeks of exposure. Some cultures were exposed to EAN serum for approximately 1 week then returned to normal medium for examination of the reversibility of the lesions. Unheated EAN serum induced demyelination of peripheral nervous system fibers within 96 hours of exposure. Following removal of the EAN serum, affected fibers remyelinated. Heated EAN serum produced a type of myelin swelling identical with that described previously in spinal cord explants exposed to serum from rabbits with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. The lamellar spacing of the peripheral nervous system meylin was increased to approximately 23 nm. and the normal bifilar intraperiod line was increased to four leaflets. Some hypermyelination was seen. The swelling was incompletely reversible following removal of the heated serum. These findings are discussed in terms of their relevance to immunemediated demyelination and peripheral neuropathy associated with the hypergammaglobulinemic states.", "PMID": 431042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_658", "title": "Evaluation of a procedure for systematic semiquantitative analysis of glomerular ultrastructure in human renal biopsies.", "content": "A method is described for systematic semiquantitative investigation of glomerular ultrastructure in renal biopsies from patients with glomerulonephritis. Three glomeruli per biopsy were studied by electron microscopy. Ten systematically recorded micrographs at x12,000 and a montage covering the whole glomerular cross-section at x3,000 were analyzed from each glomerulus. The severity of each of 34 different ultrastructural lesions was semiquantitatively evaluated on a 4-degree scale, 0 to +++. The usefulness of the method was evaluated by calculating different parameters for the reproducibility of semiquantitative scoring, representativeness of micrographs, and representativeness of glomeruli. The reliability of the method was considered good or acceptable with respect to 17 of the lesions. Ten lesions obtained a high reproducibility of scoring but the usefulness of the scores was limited due to a segmental and/or focal distribution of these lesions. The evaluation of these lesions can be improved by analyzing a larger number of micrographs, or glomeruli, or both. Seven lesions were so rare in the present biopsies that no statistical evaluation was possible. When applied to a large number of biopsies, this practical and useful method allows a reproducible comparison of the patterns of ultrastructural lesions in various types of glomerulonephritis.", "contents": "Evaluation of a procedure for systematic semiquantitative analysis of glomerular ultrastructure in human renal biopsies. A method is described for systematic semiquantitative investigation of glomerular ultrastructure in renal biopsies from patients with glomerulonephritis. Three glomeruli per biopsy were studied by electron microscopy. Ten systematically recorded micrographs at x12,000 and a montage covering the whole glomerular cross-section at x3,000 were analyzed from each glomerulus. The severity of each of 34 different ultrastructural lesions was semiquantitatively evaluated on a 4-degree scale, 0 to +++. The usefulness of the method was evaluated by calculating different parameters for the reproducibility of semiquantitative scoring, representativeness of micrographs, and representativeness of glomeruli. The reliability of the method was considered good or acceptable with respect to 17 of the lesions. Ten lesions obtained a high reproducibility of scoring but the usefulness of the scores was limited due to a segmental and/or focal distribution of these lesions. The evaluation of these lesions can be improved by analyzing a larger number of micrographs, or glomeruli, or both. Seven lesions were so rare in the present biopsies that no statistical evaluation was possible. When applied to a large number of biopsies, this practical and useful method allows a reproducible comparison of the patterns of ultrastructural lesions in various types of glomerulonephritis.", "PMID": 431043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_659", "title": "Differential pathology of nasal polyps in cystic fibrosis and atopy.", "content": "Nineteen nasal polyps from 13 patients were examined histologically. Nine polyps from seven cystic fibrosis (CF) patients could be positively identified by a triad of observations: delicate, barely visible basement membrane of surface epithelium without submucosal hyalinization, lack of extensive infiltration of eosinophils (Giemsa stains), and a preponderance of acid mucin in glands and cysts of the polyp and in its surface mucous blanket (Alcian Blue-periodic acid-Schiff stains). Two polyps from two patients with CF and atopy showed the characteristic findings of CF without modification. Eight polyps from four atopic patients without CF were identified by the reverse triad of changes: extensive thickening of the epithelial basement membrane and its extension into the submucosa as an irregular hyaline membrane, high stromal eosinophil count, and mainly neutral mucin in mucous glands, cysts, and mucous blanket. Hyperplastic mucous glands, mucous cysts of variable sizes, focal metaplasia of surface epithelium, and acid mucin in goblet cells were considered nonspecific lesions.", "contents": "Differential pathology of nasal polyps in cystic fibrosis and atopy. Nineteen nasal polyps from 13 patients were examined histologically. Nine polyps from seven cystic fibrosis (CF) patients could be positively identified by a triad of observations: delicate, barely visible basement membrane of surface epithelium without submucosal hyalinization, lack of extensive infiltration of eosinophils (Giemsa stains), and a preponderance of acid mucin in glands and cysts of the polyp and in its surface mucous blanket (Alcian Blue-periodic acid-Schiff stains). Two polyps from two patients with CF and atopy showed the characteristic findings of CF without modification. Eight polyps from four atopic patients without CF were identified by the reverse triad of changes: extensive thickening of the epithelial basement membrane and its extension into the submucosa as an irregular hyaline membrane, high stromal eosinophil count, and mainly neutral mucin in mucous glands, cysts, and mucous blanket. Hyperplastic mucous glands, mucous cysts of variable sizes, focal metaplasia of surface epithelium, and acid mucin in goblet cells were considered nonspecific lesions.", "PMID": 431044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_660", "title": "Uptake of iron aerosols by mouse airway epithelium.", "content": "Spontaneously breathing mice were exposed to an aerosol of iron oxide for 3 hours. Participation of the tracheal and bronchial epithelium in the uptake of iron oxide was noted immediately following the exposure and at 1 day, 4 days, and 7 days postexposure. Observations with the electron microscope revealed that iron oxide was pinocytosed and converted to ferritin and hemosiderin in all epithelial cell types except mucous cells. Iron content increased over time and approximately 50% of the nonmucous cells contained hemosiderin by 4 days postexposure. Ferritin and hemosiderin, but not iron oxide, were noted in connective tissue cells in the submucosa beneath the airway epithelium. Soluble iron and/or ferritin produced in the airway epithelial layer was transported to the submucosa, but normal epithelium prevented the penetration of deposited iron oxide particles to the connective tissue compartment.", "contents": "Uptake of iron aerosols by mouse airway epithelium. Spontaneously breathing mice were exposed to an aerosol of iron oxide for 3 hours. Participation of the tracheal and bronchial epithelium in the uptake of iron oxide was noted immediately following the exposure and at 1 day, 4 days, and 7 days postexposure. Observations with the electron microscope revealed that iron oxide was pinocytosed and converted to ferritin and hemosiderin in all epithelial cell types except mucous cells. Iron content increased over time and approximately 50% of the nonmucous cells contained hemosiderin by 4 days postexposure. Ferritin and hemosiderin, but not iron oxide, were noted in connective tissue cells in the submucosa beneath the airway epithelium. Soluble iron and/or ferritin produced in the airway epithelial layer was transported to the submucosa, but normal epithelium prevented the penetration of deposited iron oxide particles to the connective tissue compartment.", "PMID": 431045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_661", "title": "Primary myocardial disease in the diabetic mouse. An ultrastructural study.", "content": "The hearts from C57BL/KsJ db+/db+ mice and controls were examined by light and electron microscopy at intervals during 5 to 28 weeks of age. C57BL/6J ob/ob mice and their lean littermates served as other controls. The percentage of increase in body and heart weights of the diabetic animals was 150% and 64% greater, respectively, than that of the controls. Over the period of observation there was progressive damage to the ventricular myocytes and intramural small arteries and arterioles of the diabetic animals. Initially, the cardiac muscle cells of both ventricles contained large numbers of lipid droplets. Subsequently, there was shrinkage and increased electron density of mitochondria that were enveloped by single limiting membranes that in turn gave rise to large residual bodies. This was followed by loss of myofilaments and atrophy of myocytes. Similar changes occurred in the smooth muscle cells of intramural arteries and arterioles but not in those of epicardial arteries. Reduplicated layers of basal laminae were seen around interstitial capillaries. Degenerative changes also occurred in perivascular nerve endings. These changes are discussed in relation to the altered metabolism of the diabetic state. It is concluded that the pathologic lesions in the cardiac muscle cells and intramural arterial vessels and capillaries constitute a primary myocardial disease in the genetically diabetic mouse.", "contents": "Primary myocardial disease in the diabetic mouse. An ultrastructural study. The hearts from C57BL/KsJ db+/db+ mice and controls were examined by light and electron microscopy at intervals during 5 to 28 weeks of age. C57BL/6J ob/ob mice and their lean littermates served as other controls. The percentage of increase in body and heart weights of the diabetic animals was 150% and 64% greater, respectively, than that of the controls. Over the period of observation there was progressive damage to the ventricular myocytes and intramural small arteries and arterioles of the diabetic animals. Initially, the cardiac muscle cells of both ventricles contained large numbers of lipid droplets. Subsequently, there was shrinkage and increased electron density of mitochondria that were enveloped by single limiting membranes that in turn gave rise to large residual bodies. This was followed by loss of myofilaments and atrophy of myocytes. Similar changes occurred in the smooth muscle cells of intramural arteries and arterioles but not in those of epicardial arteries. Reduplicated layers of basal laminae were seen around interstitial capillaries. Degenerative changes also occurred in perivascular nerve endings. These changes are discussed in relation to the altered metabolism of the diabetic state. It is concluded that the pathologic lesions in the cardiac muscle cells and intramural arterial vessels and capillaries constitute a primary myocardial disease in the genetically diabetic mouse.", "PMID": 431046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_662", "title": "Alterations in hepatic pericanalicular cytoplasm during enhanced bile secretory activity.", "content": "In an attempt to demonstrate the morphology of the bile secretory apparatus, male rats were restrained and maintained on an isocaloric diet with (experimental) and without (control) taurocholate, which was continuously infused via a duodenal cannula. This method of taurocholate administration promotes a 2-fold increase in the bile acid pool size and bile secretory rate and increases the transport maximum of taurocholate by approximately 50%. After 48 hours, the livers from both the control and experimental animals were perfusion-fixed and whole hepatocytes as well as pericanalicular cytoplasm (defined as a 1-micron. wide zone of cytoplasm adjacent to the bile canaliculus) in both centrolobular and periportal cells were subjected to a stereologic analysis. Although taurocholate infusion produced relatively few changes in the amounts of organelles or inclusionswithin hepatocytes, it caused highly significant increases in the amount ofGolgi-rich area, Golgi membranes, and the number of vesicles with diameters greater than 1000 A in the pericanalicular area of cytoplasm. In addition to these changes, which occurred in both central and periportal zones, decreases in the volume of lysosomes and the surface area of smooth surfaced endoplasmic reticulum were observed. These data provide new evidence that the \"bile secretory apparatus\" may encompass several hepatocellular components which include the Golgi complex and a vesicular transport system.", "contents": "Alterations in hepatic pericanalicular cytoplasm during enhanced bile secretory activity. In an attempt to demonstrate the morphology of the bile secretory apparatus, male rats were restrained and maintained on an isocaloric diet with (experimental) and without (control) taurocholate, which was continuously infused via a duodenal cannula. This method of taurocholate administration promotes a 2-fold increase in the bile acid pool size and bile secretory rate and increases the transport maximum of taurocholate by approximately 50%. After 48 hours, the livers from both the control and experimental animals were perfusion-fixed and whole hepatocytes as well as pericanalicular cytoplasm (defined as a 1-micron. wide zone of cytoplasm adjacent to the bile canaliculus) in both centrolobular and periportal cells were subjected to a stereologic analysis. Although taurocholate infusion produced relatively few changes in the amounts of organelles or inclusionswithin hepatocytes, it caused highly significant increases in the amount ofGolgi-rich area, Golgi membranes, and the number of vesicles with diameters greater than 1000 A in the pericanalicular area of cytoplasm. In addition to these changes, which occurred in both central and periportal zones, decreases in the volume of lysosomes and the surface area of smooth surfaced endoplasmic reticulum were observed. These data provide new evidence that the \"bile secretory apparatus\" may encompass several hepatocellular components which include the Golgi complex and a vesicular transport system.", "PMID": 431048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_663", "title": "The value of preoperative screening procedures in stage I and II malignant melanoma.", "content": "Fifty patients with melanoma (30 with clinical Stage I disease and 20 with clinical Stage II disease) were analyzed retrospectively along with the screening test done prior to surgery. While the value of the chest X ray is unquestioned in preoperative screening, the same cannot be said of liver, brain, and bone scans. The bone marrow biopsy, however, done with a Janshidi needle was of value in detecting one patient with bone-marrow metastases who on examination had clinical Stage II disease and precluded surgery in this same individual. Therefore, we feel that in the preoperative scanning of patients with Stage I or Stage II human malignant melanoma, and especially in the latter, the bone-marrow biopsy should be done routinely in addition to a hematological profile, liver profile, and chest X ray.", "contents": "The value of preoperative screening procedures in stage I and II malignant melanoma. Fifty patients with melanoma (30 with clinical Stage I disease and 20 with clinical Stage II disease) were analyzed retrospectively along with the screening test done prior to surgery. While the value of the chest X ray is unquestioned in preoperative screening, the same cannot be said of liver, brain, and bone scans. The bone marrow biopsy, however, done with a Janshidi needle was of value in detecting one patient with bone-marrow metastases who on examination had clinical Stage II disease and precluded surgery in this same individual. Therefore, we feel that in the preoperative scanning of patients with Stage I or Stage II human malignant melanoma, and especially in the latter, the bone-marrow biopsy should be done routinely in addition to a hematological profile, liver profile, and chest X ray.", "PMID": 431076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_664", "title": "Recall skin-test antigens and the prognosis of stage I melanoma.", "content": "Thirty-one patients with Stage I melanoma were studied with regard to their response to common skin antigens. Patients were divided into two groups, those who had surgery alone, and those who had surgery and BCG. The results were comparable. It was found that the disease-free interval was longer and the recurrence rate lower in patients who demonstrated cutaneous hypersensitivity to common antigens than in those who did not. Patients who had Clark's levels I and II lesions were more likely to be immunocompetent. The addition of BCG in the study did not appear to decrease the rate of recurrence, which seems to be related to the basic immunological status of the individual.", "contents": "Recall skin-test antigens and the prognosis of stage I melanoma. Thirty-one patients with Stage I melanoma were studied with regard to their response to common skin antigens. Patients were divided into two groups, those who had surgery alone, and those who had surgery and BCG. The results were comparable. It was found that the disease-free interval was longer and the recurrence rate lower in patients who demonstrated cutaneous hypersensitivity to common antigens than in those who did not. Patients who had Clark's levels I and II lesions were more likely to be immunocompetent. The addition of BCG in the study did not appear to decrease the rate of recurrence, which seems to be related to the basic immunological status of the individual.", "PMID": 431077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_665", "title": "Carcinoma of the bronchus with atypical presentation: report of a case.", "content": "A 64-year-old man presented with dysphagia due to obstruction of lower third of the esophagus. Esophagoscopy showed narrowing of the esophagus with normal mucosa. Chest X rays were normal, but on lung scan there was no perfusion of the left lung. That patient died of aspiration and on post mortem a carcinoma of the bronchus with abscess formation and perforation into the esophagus was found.", "contents": "Carcinoma of the bronchus with atypical presentation: report of a case. A 64-year-old man presented with dysphagia due to obstruction of lower third of the esophagus. Esophagoscopy showed narrowing of the esophagus with normal mucosa. Chest X rays were normal, but on lung scan there was no perfusion of the left lung. That patient died of aspiration and on post mortem a carcinoma of the bronchus with abscess formation and perforation into the esophagus was found.", "PMID": 431078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_666", "title": "Recurrent breast cancer: factors influencing survival, including treatment.", "content": "Factors influencing survival were reviewed in 464 patients with recurrent breast cancer. Site of first recurrence and rate of tumor progression governed prognosis more than choice of initial therapy. Overall median survival was 22--26 months for bone/soft-tissue disease, 10--12 months for pleura/lung, and 4--6 months for liver/brain recurrence. Patients with slow rates of tumor progression at each site had longer survival terms than did rapid progressors. About 50% of patients with bone or soft-tissue recurrence had slow progression and long survival, regardless of whether initial treatment was local or systemic. In visceral recurrence, the number of patients with slow progression was doubled with systemic therapy in comparison to local treatment (from 16--20% for the latter to 37--38% for the former). In addition, long-term survival in patients with similar progression rates was best using initial systemic therapy.", "contents": "Recurrent breast cancer: factors influencing survival, including treatment. Factors influencing survival were reviewed in 464 patients with recurrent breast cancer. Site of first recurrence and rate of tumor progression governed prognosis more than choice of initial therapy. Overall median survival was 22--26 months for bone/soft-tissue disease, 10--12 months for pleura/lung, and 4--6 months for liver/brain recurrence. Patients with slow rates of tumor progression at each site had longer survival terms than did rapid progressors. About 50% of patients with bone or soft-tissue recurrence had slow progression and long survival, regardless of whether initial treatment was local or systemic. In visceral recurrence, the number of patients with slow progression was doubled with systemic therapy in comparison to local treatment (from 16--20% for the latter to 37--38% for the former). In addition, long-term survival in patients with similar progression rates was best using initial systemic therapy.", "PMID": 431079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_667", "title": "Tumor cell karyotypes in malignant melanoma.", "content": "Fifteen malignant melanomas were subjected to chromosomal analysis, in order to determine whether the number of chromosomes in a tumor cell could be correlated to a clinical prognosis. The protocol involved a direct technique which utilized a Colcemid blockade of spindle formation in mitosis to allow study of metaphase chromosomes. The direct method was chosen to reveal chromosome changes in the tumor cell in situ rather than changes in the cultured cell. Two tumors yielded chromosome spreads which could be counted and correlated with a clinical prognosis. Failure to obtain other adequate chromosome spreads were accounted for by the presence of tissue necrosis and the absence of viable tumor cells.", "contents": "Tumor cell karyotypes in malignant melanoma. Fifteen malignant melanomas were subjected to chromosomal analysis, in order to determine whether the number of chromosomes in a tumor cell could be correlated to a clinical prognosis. The protocol involved a direct technique which utilized a Colcemid blockade of spindle formation in mitosis to allow study of metaphase chromosomes. The direct method was chosen to reveal chromosome changes in the tumor cell in situ rather than changes in the cultured cell. Two tumors yielded chromosome spreads which could be counted and correlated with a clinical prognosis. Failure to obtain other adequate chromosome spreads were accounted for by the presence of tissue necrosis and the absence of viable tumor cells.", "PMID": 431080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_668", "title": "Effect of infusion chemotherapy and hepatic artery ligation on normal liver: experimental study in the cat.", "content": "The effects of arterial infusion with chemotherapy alone or in combination with hepatic artery ligation on the normal liver of the cat were studied. Early in the course of treatment cats receiving chemotherapy infusion only appeared sicker than animals in other groups. Yet only 1 of 5 cats was dead at 12 weeks. In contrast, 4 of 6 animals that had hepatic artery ligation and chemotherapy infusion, and 3 of 6 that had ligation of the hepatic artery only, died during the same period of follow-up. Progressive liver damage after dearterialization accounted for the high mortality rate. Histologic examination of liver biopsies taken from animals in these latter groups revealed marked destruction of the parenchyma. These changes were more extensive in animals treated by a combination of hepatic artery ligation and chemotherapy infusion. To avoid the injurious effects of permanent interruption of the hepatic arterial flow on normal liver tissue an alternative method of hepatic dearterialization is currently under investigation.", "contents": "Effect of infusion chemotherapy and hepatic artery ligation on normal liver: experimental study in the cat. The effects of arterial infusion with chemotherapy alone or in combination with hepatic artery ligation on the normal liver of the cat were studied. Early in the course of treatment cats receiving chemotherapy infusion only appeared sicker than animals in other groups. Yet only 1 of 5 cats was dead at 12 weeks. In contrast, 4 of 6 animals that had hepatic artery ligation and chemotherapy infusion, and 3 of 6 that had ligation of the hepatic artery only, died during the same period of follow-up. Progressive liver damage after dearterialization accounted for the high mortality rate. Histologic examination of liver biopsies taken from animals in these latter groups revealed marked destruction of the parenchyma. These changes were more extensive in animals treated by a combination of hepatic artery ligation and chemotherapy infusion. To avoid the injurious effects of permanent interruption of the hepatic arterial flow on normal liver tissue an alternative method of hepatic dearterialization is currently under investigation.", "PMID": 431081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_669", "title": "Immunotherapeutic effect of tumor necrosis after cryosurgery, electrocoagulation, and ligation.", "content": "Tumor necrosis in situ by cryosurgery, electrocoagulation, or ligation generally induces or augments some increase in tumor-specific transplantation immunity (TSTI) as compared with excision. Excision of the tumor 24 hours after it has been rendered ischemic by either ligation or cryosurgery seems to produce TSTI that is significantly greater than that after excision of viable tumor without prior ligation or cryosurgery; the degree of this immunity is similar to that seen after the tumor is left in situ indefinitely after treatment. These data suggest that most of the immunization following tumor necrosis in situ occurs within 24 hours of treatment. The experimental findings support the clinical reports of putative immunologic potentiation after tumor necrosis in situ.", "contents": "Immunotherapeutic effect of tumor necrosis after cryosurgery, electrocoagulation, and ligation. Tumor necrosis in situ by cryosurgery, electrocoagulation, or ligation generally induces or augments some increase in tumor-specific transplantation immunity (TSTI) as compared with excision. Excision of the tumor 24 hours after it has been rendered ischemic by either ligation or cryosurgery seems to produce TSTI that is significantly greater than that after excision of viable tumor without prior ligation or cryosurgery; the degree of this immunity is similar to that seen after the tumor is left in situ indefinitely after treatment. These data suggest that most of the immunization following tumor necrosis in situ occurs within 24 hours of treatment. The experimental findings support the clinical reports of putative immunologic potentiation after tumor necrosis in situ.", "PMID": 431082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_670", "title": "The effect of age and postsplenectomy interval on the susceptibility of the asplenic adult rat to pneumococcal challenge.", "content": "The response to intravenous challenge with pneumococcus was examined in asplenic and sham-operated adult Sprague-Dawley rats eighteen weeks following surgery. The LD50 was over 2,0000 fold greater in the sham-operated animals than in the asplenic animals. These results suggest that the age of an asplenic host, the length of time following splenectomy, and the presence of a normal immune system other than the asplenic state do not in themselves confer immunity.", "contents": "The effect of age and postsplenectomy interval on the susceptibility of the asplenic adult rat to pneumococcal challenge. The response to intravenous challenge with pneumococcus was examined in asplenic and sham-operated adult Sprague-Dawley rats eighteen weeks following surgery. The LD50 was over 2,0000 fold greater in the sham-operated animals than in the asplenic animals. These results suggest that the age of an asplenic host, the length of time following splenectomy, and the presence of a normal immune system other than the asplenic state do not in themselves confer immunity.", "PMID": 431083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_671", "title": "Reduction of metastatic rate by immunotherapy: a comparison of the immunogenic properties of metastasizing tumor cells versus tumor cells in the primary mass.", "content": "The vasculature of a poorly immunogenic, highly metastatic transplantable fibrosarcoma (T-241) maintained in the femoral muscle of C57BL/6J mice was perfused. This permitted collection of tumor cells which had invaded into the tumor vascular channels (ie, metastasizing tumor cells). Also collected as a separate population were tumor cells from the primary tumor mass. Immunization was carried out with these cell populations in conjunction with BCG and the effect on the growth of primary tumor and metastatic rate was evaluated following rechallenge with unfractionated tumor cells. The rate of tumor growth at the primary site was not affected by any of the immunization schedules. However, immunization with venous effluent cells (metastasizing tumor cells) and BCG was two times more effective in reducing the number of pulmonary metastases than immunization using tumor cells isolated from the primary tumor mass. Passively transferred spleen cells from donors immunized with the cell populations listed above had exactly the same effect, that is, no effect on the growth of the primary tumor, but a dramatic reduction in the metastatic rate when effluent tumor cells were used to immunize cell donors. The data point to an antigenic heterogeneity with this particular transplantable tumor.", "contents": "Reduction of metastatic rate by immunotherapy: a comparison of the immunogenic properties of metastasizing tumor cells versus tumor cells in the primary mass. The vasculature of a poorly immunogenic, highly metastatic transplantable fibrosarcoma (T-241) maintained in the femoral muscle of C57BL/6J mice was perfused. This permitted collection of tumor cells which had invaded into the tumor vascular channels (ie, metastasizing tumor cells). Also collected as a separate population were tumor cells from the primary tumor mass. Immunization was carried out with these cell populations in conjunction with BCG and the effect on the growth of primary tumor and metastatic rate was evaluated following rechallenge with unfractionated tumor cells. The rate of tumor growth at the primary site was not affected by any of the immunization schedules. However, immunization with venous effluent cells (metastasizing tumor cells) and BCG was two times more effective in reducing the number of pulmonary metastases than immunization using tumor cells isolated from the primary tumor mass. Passively transferred spleen cells from donors immunized with the cell populations listed above had exactly the same effect, that is, no effect on the growth of the primary tumor, but a dramatic reduction in the metastatic rate when effluent tumor cells were used to immunize cell donors. The data point to an antigenic heterogeneity with this particular transplantable tumor.", "PMID": 431084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_672", "title": "Multiple carcinomas following therapy for Hodgkin disease.", "content": "A 52-year-old man developed synchronous squamous-cell carcinoma of the larynx and middle one-third of the esophagus following treatment of Hodgkin disease. This patient fell into the subgroup of patients treated by intensive radiation therapy followed by intensive chemotherapy. The link between the therapy and subsequent carcinoma is suggestive. Long-term follow-up care of patients with Hodgkin disease demands continuing evaluation of this possible complication.", "contents": "Multiple carcinomas following therapy for Hodgkin disease. A 52-year-old man developed synchronous squamous-cell carcinoma of the larynx and middle one-third of the esophagus following treatment of Hodgkin disease. This patient fell into the subgroup of patients treated by intensive radiation therapy followed by intensive chemotherapy. The link between the therapy and subsequent carcinoma is suggestive. Long-term follow-up care of patients with Hodgkin disease demands continuing evaluation of this possible complication.", "PMID": 431085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_673", "title": "Experimental evaluation of hypothermic intermittent coronary perfusion.", "content": "The recovery of the myocardial contractility of blood-perfused papillary muscle from the rabbit hearts was used to determine if hypothermia would minimize the myocardial injury associated with intermittent aortic cross-clamping (IACC). Continuous normothermic coronary perfusion for 2 hours with either cross circulation or a membrane oxygenator had only minimal adverse effects on contractility. None of the hearts tolerated normothermic IACC (45 minutes of anoxia and 10 minutes of reperfusion, repeated twice), When the myocardial temperature was reduced to 32 degrees C., the recovery following IACC was 41.25 +/- 11.21 percent (n=8). With hypothermia of 28 degrees C., it was 70.43 +/- 13.03 percent (cross circulation group, n=7) or 68.36 +/- 13.11 percent (membrane oxygenator group, n=7). If the hearts were cooled to 24 degrees C., the recovery of the myocardial contractility following IACC was 90.95 +/- 5.42 percent (n=11). The improvement of the degree of recovery by hypothermia was statistically highly significant (p less than 0.005). Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and isoenzymes (CPK-MB) were also measured in some groups, but the results warrrant further studies before they can be correlated with the myocardial function.", "contents": "Experimental evaluation of hypothermic intermittent coronary perfusion. The recovery of the myocardial contractility of blood-perfused papillary muscle from the rabbit hearts was used to determine if hypothermia would minimize the myocardial injury associated with intermittent aortic cross-clamping (IACC). Continuous normothermic coronary perfusion for 2 hours with either cross circulation or a membrane oxygenator had only minimal adverse effects on contractility. None of the hearts tolerated normothermic IACC (45 minutes of anoxia and 10 minutes of reperfusion, repeated twice), When the myocardial temperature was reduced to 32 degrees C., the recovery following IACC was 41.25 +/- 11.21 percent (n=8). With hypothermia of 28 degrees C., it was 70.43 +/- 13.03 percent (cross circulation group, n=7) or 68.36 +/- 13.11 percent (membrane oxygenator group, n=7). If the hearts were cooled to 24 degrees C., the recovery of the myocardial contractility following IACC was 90.95 +/- 5.42 percent (n=11). The improvement of the degree of recovery by hypothermia was statistically highly significant (p less than 0.005). Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and isoenzymes (CPK-MB) were also measured in some groups, but the results warrrant further studies before they can be correlated with the myocardial function.", "PMID": 431097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_674", "title": "Ischemic injury to the conducting system of the heart. Involvement of myocardial lysosomes.", "content": "The conducting system was studied in an in situ perfused swine heart preparation with reduced coronary flow (ischemia) using perfusate containing high and low levels of glucose (26.6 versus 8.6mM) with and without insulin. Coronary flow was maintained at normal levels for 60 minutes in control hearts. In ischemic hearts flow was reduced to about 50 percent of control levels for 30 minutes. Ultrastructural studies documented only subtle modifications of Purkinje fibers in ischemic hearts. Glycogen depletion and disruption of cell junctions were observed in some fibers. One consistent finding was the activation of the lysosomal system. The outer membranes of primary lysosomes appeared herniated and in some cases disrupted, and small vesicles containing hydrolytic enzymes were seen in association with the Golgi apparatus and larger primary lysosomes. Specimens prepared for the demonstration of acid phosphatase indicated a redistribution of hydrolytic enzymes in Purkinje fibers with a depostion of acid hydrolases in smaller lysosomal vesicles, the transverse and side-to-side junctions between cells, and occasionally in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Enriched perfusate containing high levels of glucose with insulin appeared to have no therapeutic effects in terms of the structure of the Purkinje fibers. The results suggest that alterations in the lysosomal system may be one of the earliest structural changes which occur in oxygen-deficient hearts.", "contents": "Ischemic injury to the conducting system of the heart. Involvement of myocardial lysosomes. The conducting system was studied in an in situ perfused swine heart preparation with reduced coronary flow (ischemia) using perfusate containing high and low levels of glucose (26.6 versus 8.6mM) with and without insulin. Coronary flow was maintained at normal levels for 60 minutes in control hearts. In ischemic hearts flow was reduced to about 50 percent of control levels for 30 minutes. Ultrastructural studies documented only subtle modifications of Purkinje fibers in ischemic hearts. Glycogen depletion and disruption of cell junctions were observed in some fibers. One consistent finding was the activation of the lysosomal system. The outer membranes of primary lysosomes appeared herniated and in some cases disrupted, and small vesicles containing hydrolytic enzymes were seen in association with the Golgi apparatus and larger primary lysosomes. Specimens prepared for the demonstration of acid phosphatase indicated a redistribution of hydrolytic enzymes in Purkinje fibers with a depostion of acid hydrolases in smaller lysosomal vesicles, the transverse and side-to-side junctions between cells, and occasionally in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Enriched perfusate containing high levels of glucose with insulin appeared to have no therapeutic effects in terms of the structure of the Purkinje fibers. The results suggest that alterations in the lysosomal system may be one of the earliest structural changes which occur in oxygen-deficient hearts.", "PMID": 431098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_675", "title": "Optimization of coronary perfusion rate during cardiac surgery in man.", "content": "Myocardial oxygen consumption (Vo2) and lactate flux were measured in 12 patients with aortic valve disease and left ventricular hypertrophy during cardiac surgery with hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass and artificial coronary perfusion. Coronary flow was varied from \"standard\" flow-defined as giving a \"line pressure\" of 110 mm. Hg-to 25 or 50 percent higher than standard flow. Lactate flux was not significant at any flow. Vo2 was higher at +25 percent flow that at standard flow, but no significant further increase in Vo2 occurred at +50 percent. Myocardial Q10 and coronary vascular resistance also approached optimal values at a flow of +25 percent, corresponding with a mean coronary flow of 203 ml. times min -1. The difficulties are discussed of standardizing coronary perfusion in useful practical terms.", "contents": "Optimization of coronary perfusion rate during cardiac surgery in man. Myocardial oxygen consumption (Vo2) and lactate flux were measured in 12 patients with aortic valve disease and left ventricular hypertrophy during cardiac surgery with hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass and artificial coronary perfusion. Coronary flow was varied from \"standard\" flow-defined as giving a \"line pressure\" of 110 mm. Hg-to 25 or 50 percent higher than standard flow. Lactate flux was not significant at any flow. Vo2 was higher at +25 percent flow that at standard flow, but no significant further increase in Vo2 occurred at +50 percent. Myocardial Q10 and coronary vascular resistance also approached optimal values at a flow of +25 percent, corresponding with a mean coronary flow of 203 ml. times min -1. The difficulties are discussed of standardizing coronary perfusion in useful practical terms.", "PMID": 431099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_676", "title": "Palliative Mustard or Rastelli operation in complete transposition of the great arteries. Option decided by lung biopsy.", "content": "A case history is reported of a patient with complete transposition of the great arteries and a ventricular septal defect in whom pulmonary hypertension developed, with a pulmonary resistence of 10 units M.2. Because of the possibility that the pulmonary vascular obstructive disease might have been of recent onset and that a high hematocrit value of 82 percent may have interfered with the precise determination of pulmonary resistance, an open lung biopsy was performed. The histologic findings suggested that the vascular disease was as yet reversible. Because of these findings and the aforementioned considerations, a Rastelli operation was performed instead of a palliative Mustard procedure. At present, 6 months postoperatively, the patient is asymptomatic.", "contents": "Palliative Mustard or Rastelli operation in complete transposition of the great arteries. Option decided by lung biopsy. A case history is reported of a patient with complete transposition of the great arteries and a ventricular septal defect in whom pulmonary hypertension developed, with a pulmonary resistence of 10 units M.2. Because of the possibility that the pulmonary vascular obstructive disease might have been of recent onset and that a high hematocrit value of 82 percent may have interfered with the precise determination of pulmonary resistance, an open lung biopsy was performed. The histologic findings suggested that the vascular disease was as yet reversible. Because of these findings and the aforementioned considerations, a Rastelli operation was performed instead of a palliative Mustard procedure. At present, 6 months postoperatively, the patient is asymptomatic.", "PMID": 431101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_677", "title": "Evaluation of right atrial-pulmonary artery conduits for tricuspid atresia. Experimental study.", "content": "Blood flow through right atrial-pulmonary artery (RA-PA) conduits was investigated. Experiments were designed to evaluate the pumping function of the right atrium, effects of the atrial versus ventricular pacing site, the necessity of a valve within the conduit, and the effect of positive-pressure ventilation on conduit flow. Twenty foxhounds were subjected to silicone patch closure of 90 percent of the tricuspid valve orifices to create stenosis. Ten dogs successfully underwent RA-PA shunting with a conduit with paralled limbs, one containing a prosthetic valve. The proximal main pulmonary artery was ligated to ensure total diversion of blood via the conduit. Valved and nonvalved conduit flow was significantly correlated with right atrial pressure (RAP): r = 0.95, p less than 0.05; r = 0.98, p less than 0.01, respectively. There was no significant effect of increasing heart rate (p = 0.19), atrial versus ventricular rhythm (p = 0.28), or the presence of a valve (p = 0.63). Increasing tidal volume resulted in increasing tidal conduit flow (expiration-inspiration) (r = 1.0, p less than 0.01), but mean flow was unaffected. Therefore, RAP is the most important factor influencing conduit flow. The absence of a valve, ventricular rhythm, and tachycardia did not significantly alter flow in this acute experimental model.", "contents": "Evaluation of right atrial-pulmonary artery conduits for tricuspid atresia. Experimental study. Blood flow through right atrial-pulmonary artery (RA-PA) conduits was investigated. Experiments were designed to evaluate the pumping function of the right atrium, effects of the atrial versus ventricular pacing site, the necessity of a valve within the conduit, and the effect of positive-pressure ventilation on conduit flow. Twenty foxhounds were subjected to silicone patch closure of 90 percent of the tricuspid valve orifices to create stenosis. Ten dogs successfully underwent RA-PA shunting with a conduit with paralled limbs, one containing a prosthetic valve. The proximal main pulmonary artery was ligated to ensure total diversion of blood via the conduit. Valved and nonvalved conduit flow was significantly correlated with right atrial pressure (RAP): r = 0.95, p less than 0.05; r = 0.98, p less than 0.01, respectively. There was no significant effect of increasing heart rate (p = 0.19), atrial versus ventricular rhythm (p = 0.28), or the presence of a valve (p = 0.63). Increasing tidal volume resulted in increasing tidal conduit flow (expiration-inspiration) (r = 1.0, p less than 0.01), but mean flow was unaffected. Therefore, RAP is the most important factor influencing conduit flow. The absence of a valve, ventricular rhythm, and tachycardia did not significantly alter flow in this acute experimental model.", "PMID": 431103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_678", "title": "Conducting tissues in univentricular heart of right ventricular type with double or common inlet.", "content": "Four specimens of univentricular hearts of the right ventricular type, three with two atrioventricular valves and one with a common valve, have been examined histologically to identify the atrioventricular conduction system. Three of the specimens were initially thought to have only one chamber within the ventricular mass, a chamber which had a right ventricular trabecular pattern. On detailed examination and with removal of blocks of tissue for histologic study, a second, rudimentary chamber was found in the posterior ventricular wall. This chamber had a trabecular zone of the left ventricular type and was connected with the main chamber only via a small defect in the septum which separated the two chambers. In all four cases the connecting atrioventricular node was dound in normal relationship to atrial markers and the penetrating bundle descended onto the posterior wall of the main chamber. In three cases it ran along the crest of the septum between the main chamber and rudimentary chamber, in relation to the septal defect. In two cases left bundle branch tissue was identified running into the rudimentary chamber. This pattern of conducting system is different from that previously identified in other varieties of univentricular heart and again underlines the importance of intraoperative mapping of the conduction system during surgery of the univentricular heart.", "contents": "Conducting tissues in univentricular heart of right ventricular type with double or common inlet. Four specimens of univentricular hearts of the right ventricular type, three with two atrioventricular valves and one with a common valve, have been examined histologically to identify the atrioventricular conduction system. Three of the specimens were initially thought to have only one chamber within the ventricular mass, a chamber which had a right ventricular trabecular pattern. On detailed examination and with removal of blocks of tissue for histologic study, a second, rudimentary chamber was found in the posterior ventricular wall. This chamber had a trabecular zone of the left ventricular type and was connected with the main chamber only via a small defect in the septum which separated the two chambers. In all four cases the connecting atrioventricular node was dound in normal relationship to atrial markers and the penetrating bundle descended onto the posterior wall of the main chamber. In three cases it ran along the crest of the septum between the main chamber and rudimentary chamber, in relation to the septal defect. In two cases left bundle branch tissue was identified running into the rudimentary chamber. This pattern of conducting system is different from that previously identified in other varieties of univentricular heart and again underlines the importance of intraoperative mapping of the conduction system during surgery of the univentricular heart.", "PMID": 431104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_679", "title": "Correction of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery.", "content": "Successful surgical treatment for anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery was performed in one patient by left coronary artery-subclavian anastomosis and in two patients by direct implantation of the left coronary artery into the aorta. The excellent early and late results obtained with these methods and the suboptimal results reported with saphenous vein grafting for this lesion make these other alternatives more attractive. Direct implantation of the left coronary artery into the aorta utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermic (4 degrees C.) potassium-induced (20 mEq. per liter) cardioplegia is now our preferred approach for most patients with this lesion.", "contents": "Correction of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery. Successful surgical treatment for anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery was performed in one patient by left coronary artery-subclavian anastomosis and in two patients by direct implantation of the left coronary artery into the aorta. The excellent early and late results obtained with these methods and the suboptimal results reported with saphenous vein grafting for this lesion make these other alternatives more attractive. Direct implantation of the left coronary artery into the aorta utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermic (4 degrees C.) potassium-induced (20 mEq. per liter) cardioplegia is now our preferred approach for most patients with this lesion.", "PMID": 431105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_680", "title": "Postoperative evaluation of patients with tetralogy of Fallot repaired in infancy. Including criteria for use of outflow patching and radiologic assessment of pulmonary regurgitation.", "content": "The late hemodynamic and radiologic findings were good or excellent in 96 percent of 23 infants in whom tetralogy of Fallot was repaired with the use of profound hypothermia. These results encourage continuation of the policy of early repair rather than palliation in tetralogy of Fallot. The preoperative cineangiocardiographic assessment of the type and severity of the pulmonary stenosis accurately predicted the findings at operation and the type of repair required. In infants between 1 and 21 months of age and 3 and 10 kilograms in weight, a main pulmonary artery (MPA) diameter of less than 7 mm. was the cineangiocardiographic measurement most accurately predicting the necessity for an outflow patch across the pulmonary ring. Postoperative studies showed significant increases in the MPA and pulmonary ring diameters. A Method of cineangiocardiographic assessment of pulmonary incompetence is presented. Severe mechanical pulmonary incompetence in some patients produced mild hemodynamic effects by radiologic criteria.", "contents": "Postoperative evaluation of patients with tetralogy of Fallot repaired in infancy. Including criteria for use of outflow patching and radiologic assessment of pulmonary regurgitation. The late hemodynamic and radiologic findings were good or excellent in 96 percent of 23 infants in whom tetralogy of Fallot was repaired with the use of profound hypothermia. These results encourage continuation of the policy of early repair rather than palliation in tetralogy of Fallot. The preoperative cineangiocardiographic assessment of the type and severity of the pulmonary stenosis accurately predicted the findings at operation and the type of repair required. In infants between 1 and 21 months of age and 3 and 10 kilograms in weight, a main pulmonary artery (MPA) diameter of less than 7 mm. was the cineangiocardiographic measurement most accurately predicting the necessity for an outflow patch across the pulmonary ring. Postoperative studies showed significant increases in the MPA and pulmonary ring diameters. A Method of cineangiocardiographic assessment of pulmonary incompetence is presented. Severe mechanical pulmonary incompetence in some patients produced mild hemodynamic effects by radiologic criteria.", "PMID": 431106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_681", "title": "Lung pathology in infants with severe pulmonary hypertension and cardiac disease.", "content": "Lung biopsy specimens were taken from 39 infants younger than 12 months of age with congenital heart disease and severe pulmonary hypertension (Pp/Ps greater than or equal to 0.75) accompanied by respiratory distress. The pathological change in lung specimens and clinical courses were compared. These 39 infants underwent surgical treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), seven patients; ventricular septal defect (VSD), 13 patients; and complex heart anomaly, 19 patients. The common pathological findings of the lung specimens taken from these infants were lymphoid cellular infiltration and thickening of the alveolar septum, which we have called \"septitis\" in the present study. In most cases pulmonary vascular obstructive change was within Grade 2 of the Health-Edwards criteria. Septitis was classified into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. Only three of the 19 infants with severe septitis survived postoperatively, whereas 10 of the 12 infants with moderate septitis and all eight with mild septitis could be successfully weaned. The cause of septitis remains unidentified. We have found the patient's age and pulmonary hypertension to be closely related to the grade of septitis in this study. Septitis plays a much more important role than pulmonary vascular obstructive change in the prognosis of pulmonary hypertensive heart disease in early infancy.", "contents": "Lung pathology in infants with severe pulmonary hypertension and cardiac disease. Lung biopsy specimens were taken from 39 infants younger than 12 months of age with congenital heart disease and severe pulmonary hypertension (Pp/Ps greater than or equal to 0.75) accompanied by respiratory distress. The pathological change in lung specimens and clinical courses were compared. These 39 infants underwent surgical treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), seven patients; ventricular septal defect (VSD), 13 patients; and complex heart anomaly, 19 patients. The common pathological findings of the lung specimens taken from these infants were lymphoid cellular infiltration and thickening of the alveolar septum, which we have called \"septitis\" in the present study. In most cases pulmonary vascular obstructive change was within Grade 2 of the Health-Edwards criteria. Septitis was classified into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. Only three of the 19 infants with severe septitis survived postoperatively, whereas 10 of the 12 infants with moderate septitis and all eight with mild septitis could be successfully weaned. The cause of septitis remains unidentified. We have found the patient's age and pulmonary hypertension to be closely related to the grade of septitis in this study. Septitis plays a much more important role than pulmonary vascular obstructive change in the prognosis of pulmonary hypertensive heart disease in early infancy.", "PMID": 431107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_682", "title": "Mitral atresis with normal-sized ventricles, ventricular septal defect, and dextro-transposition of the great arteries.", "content": "A case is described of mitral atresia, patent foramen ovale, subcristal ventricular septal defects (VSD), and dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA), coexisting with a normal-sized left ventricle and normal-sized great arteries in a 6 8/12-year old girl. The discussion is related to anatomic, embryologic, and surgical aspects of this particular condition, which, to our knowledge, has never been documented before.", "contents": "Mitral atresis with normal-sized ventricles, ventricular septal defect, and dextro-transposition of the great arteries. A case is described of mitral atresia, patent foramen ovale, subcristal ventricular septal defects (VSD), and dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA), coexisting with a normal-sized left ventricle and normal-sized great arteries in a 6 8/12-year old girl. The discussion is related to anatomic, embryologic, and surgical aspects of this particular condition, which, to our knowledge, has never been documented before.", "PMID": 431108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_683", "title": "False aneurysm of right pulmonary artery. New complication of aorta-right pulmonary artery anastomosis.", "content": "The case history of an infant with tetralogy of Fallot who had a Waterston anastomosis performed at the age of 1 year is presented. Subsequent chest roentgenograms revealed a ringlike calcification which was shown at angiography and operation to be due to a false aneurysm of the right pulmonary artery at the site of the Waterston anastomosis. The aneurysm also produced unidirectional obstruction of the right pulmonary artery. A review of the literature suggested that a false aneurysm of the right pulmonary artery after a Waterson anatomosis had not been reported previously.", "contents": "False aneurysm of right pulmonary artery. New complication of aorta-right pulmonary artery anastomosis. The case history of an infant with tetralogy of Fallot who had a Waterston anastomosis performed at the age of 1 year is presented. Subsequent chest roentgenograms revealed a ringlike calcification which was shown at angiography and operation to be due to a false aneurysm of the right pulmonary artery at the site of the Waterston anastomosis. The aneurysm also produced unidirectional obstruction of the right pulmonary artery. A review of the literature suggested that a false aneurysm of the right pulmonary artery after a Waterson anatomosis had not been reported previously.", "PMID": 431109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_684", "title": "Tricuspid valvular incompetence and rupture of the ventricular septum caused by nonpenetrating trauma.", "content": "A young adult involved in an automobile accident had tricuspid valvular incompetence and rupture of the ventricular septum owing to blunt trauma. He had a successful repair of the ventricular septal defect and replacement of the tricuspid valve. Tricuspid valvular incompetence owing to nonpenetrating trauma is uncommon. Blunt trauma resulting in rupture of the ventricular septum is rare. Rupture of the membranous portion of the ventricular spetum is extremely rare. This is the first report of a patient having a combination of these lesions.", "contents": "Tricuspid valvular incompetence and rupture of the ventricular septum caused by nonpenetrating trauma. A young adult involved in an automobile accident had tricuspid valvular incompetence and rupture of the ventricular septum owing to blunt trauma. He had a successful repair of the ventricular septal defect and replacement of the tricuspid valve. Tricuspid valvular incompetence owing to nonpenetrating trauma is uncommon. Blunt trauma resulting in rupture of the ventricular septum is rare. Rupture of the membranous portion of the ventricular spetum is extremely rare. This is the first report of a patient having a combination of these lesions.", "PMID": 431112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_685", "title": "Postoperative chylous pseudocyst.", "content": "A 59-year-old man underwent resection of aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta with graft replacement. A postoperative chylothorax was managed by nonsurgical means and subsided. Subsequently, an expansile mass appeared in the left side of the chest and was surgically removed. This was found to be a chylous pseudocyst. Management of chylothorax and the details of this unique case are described.", "contents": "Postoperative chylous pseudocyst. A 59-year-old man underwent resection of aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta with graft replacement. A postoperative chylothorax was managed by nonsurgical means and subsided. Subsequently, an expansile mass appeared in the left side of the chest and was surgically removed. This was found to be a chylous pseudocyst. Management of chylothorax and the details of this unique case are described.", "PMID": 431113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_686", "title": "Familial cardiac myxoma: emphasis on unusual clinical manifestations.", "content": "This report describes familial cardiac myxoma involving parent and child. The familial occurrence of this condition, previously reported in four other families, underscores the necessity of screening all direct members of the family by echocardiography once the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma is made. Each patient presented with unusual clinical manifestations. The father, who had a right atrial myxoma associated with an atrial septal defect and mitral valve prolapse, presented with findings highly suggestive of paradoxical embolism. The daughter, who had an infected right ventricular myxoma, was initially treated for valvular subacute bacterial endocarditis before the diagnosis was made.", "contents": "Familial cardiac myxoma: emphasis on unusual clinical manifestations. This report describes familial cardiac myxoma involving parent and child. The familial occurrence of this condition, previously reported in four other families, underscores the necessity of screening all direct members of the family by echocardiography once the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma is made. Each patient presented with unusual clinical manifestations. The father, who had a right atrial myxoma associated with an atrial septal defect and mitral valve prolapse, presented with findings highly suggestive of paradoxical embolism. The daughter, who had an infected right ventricular myxoma, was initially treated for valvular subacute bacterial endocarditis before the diagnosis was made.", "PMID": 431115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_687", "title": "Intraoperative hemodialysis during cardiopulmonary bypass in chronic renal failure.", "content": "This report describes the features and the course of a patient on maintenance hemodialysis in whom infective endocarditis of the aortic valve ensued. The subsequent development of intractable congestive heart failure necessitated aortic valve replacement. Use of intraoperative hemodialysis, facilitating the intraoperative and postoperative management of the patient, is described. Following valve replacement the patient did well with no evidence of congestive heart failure.", "contents": "Intraoperative hemodialysis during cardiopulmonary bypass in chronic renal failure. This report describes the features and the course of a patient on maintenance hemodialysis in whom infective endocarditis of the aortic valve ensued. The subsequent development of intractable congestive heart failure necessitated aortic valve replacement. Use of intraoperative hemodialysis, facilitating the intraoperative and postoperative management of the patient, is described. Following valve replacement the patient did well with no evidence of congestive heart failure.", "PMID": 431116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_688", "title": "Runaway pump head: new cause of gas embolism during cardiopulmonary bypass.", "content": "Massive gas embolism was narrowly avoided during a recent case of cardiopulmonary bypass for aortic valve replacement. Cause of the mishap was an arterial pump head that had rapidly accelerated spontaneously, emptying the oxygenator of blood within seconds. No gas entered the patient's vascular system, but a period of circulatory arrest was required in order to purge the extracorporeal circuit of gas and to re-establish blood flow. Only an instantaneous response by the perfusionist prevented massive gas embolism.", "contents": "Runaway pump head: new cause of gas embolism during cardiopulmonary bypass. Massive gas embolism was narrowly avoided during a recent case of cardiopulmonary bypass for aortic valve replacement. Cause of the mishap was an arterial pump head that had rapidly accelerated spontaneously, emptying the oxygenator of blood within seconds. No gas entered the patient's vascular system, but a period of circulatory arrest was required in order to purge the extracorporeal circuit of gas and to re-establish blood flow. Only an instantaneous response by the perfusionist prevented massive gas embolism.", "PMID": 431117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_689", "title": "Idiopathic membranoproliferative (mesangiocapillary) glomerulonephritis: a clinicopathologic study.", "content": "In 51 patients with type 1 and 9 patients with type 2 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, we found a male predominance in both types, a wide age range but with younger patients having predominantly type 2 disease, and clinical presentations that varied and included the nephrotic syndrome, an abnormal urinalysis only, acute nephritis, and recurrent hematuria. Hypertension and impaired renal function at the time of first evaluation, which were present in more than one-third of the patients, presaged a poor prognosis; in most of these patients end-stage renal failure or worsening of renal function occurred. Acute nephritis at onset was also related to a deteriorating course and was especially frequent in patients with type 2 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Retrospective analysis of treatment regimens, in which patients were given an average of 1 year of therapy with prednisone alone or combined with cytotoxic agents, showed no effect in patients who had progressive forms of the glomerulopathy.", "contents": "Idiopathic membranoproliferative (mesangiocapillary) glomerulonephritis: a clinicopathologic study. In 51 patients with type 1 and 9 patients with type 2 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, we found a male predominance in both types, a wide age range but with younger patients having predominantly type 2 disease, and clinical presentations that varied and included the nephrotic syndrome, an abnormal urinalysis only, acute nephritis, and recurrent hematuria. Hypertension and impaired renal function at the time of first evaluation, which were present in more than one-third of the patients, presaged a poor prognosis; in most of these patients end-stage renal failure or worsening of renal function occurred. Acute nephritis at onset was also related to a deteriorating course and was especially frequent in patients with type 2 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Retrospective analysis of treatment regimens, in which patients were given an average of 1 year of therapy with prednisone alone or combined with cytotoxic agents, showed no effect in patients who had progressive forms of the glomerulopathy.", "PMID": 431120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_690", "title": "The relationships between pancreatic ductal obstruction and pancreatic secretion in man.", "content": "Precise relationships between pancreatic ductal obstruction and pancreatic secretory capacity have not been established. In this study, we describe the quantitative relationships between the lengths of opacified ducts obtained at retrograde pancreatography and the secretory capcity of the gland for volume, bicarbonate, lipase, and trypsin. Forty-five patients (17 with pancreatic cancer, 6 pancreatitis, 5 other malignancies, and 17 nonmalignant, nonpancreatic disease found at laparotomy) were studied with a method of duodenal intubation and perfusion with basal saline perfusion alone or with continuous intravenous infusion of secretin or of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin. Secretory outputs of volume, bicarbonate, and enzymes compared with the length of opacified ducts showed a significant (P less than 0.05) linear relationship for patients with pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and other cancers. The resulting data imply that obstruction of the pancreatic duct is important in decreasing secretion of the pancreas in pancreatic disease. The relationship between obstruction and pancreatic secretion demonstrates that a decrease in exocrine pancreatic secretion cannot be detected until more than 60% of the total length of the main pancreatic duct has been obstructed.", "contents": "The relationships between pancreatic ductal obstruction and pancreatic secretion in man. Precise relationships between pancreatic ductal obstruction and pancreatic secretory capacity have not been established. In this study, we describe the quantitative relationships between the lengths of opacified ducts obtained at retrograde pancreatography and the secretory capcity of the gland for volume, bicarbonate, lipase, and trypsin. Forty-five patients (17 with pancreatic cancer, 6 pancreatitis, 5 other malignancies, and 17 nonmalignant, nonpancreatic disease found at laparotomy) were studied with a method of duodenal intubation and perfusion with basal saline perfusion alone or with continuous intravenous infusion of secretin or of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin. Secretory outputs of volume, bicarbonate, and enzymes compared with the length of opacified ducts showed a significant (P less than 0.05) linear relationship for patients with pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and other cancers. The resulting data imply that obstruction of the pancreatic duct is important in decreasing secretion of the pancreas in pancreatic disease. The relationship between obstruction and pancreatic secretion demonstrates that a decrease in exocrine pancreatic secretion cannot be detected until more than 60% of the total length of the main pancreatic duct has been obstructed.", "PMID": 431121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_691", "title": "Ebstein's anomaly: the clinical features and natural history of Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve.", "content": "The clinical features and natural history of Ebstein's anomaly are analyzed on the basis of experience with 67 consecutive patients who have had a mean follow-up of 12 years. Of the total group, 26 (39%) of the patients remained in functional Class I or II and 41 (61%) progressed at some time into Class III or IV. Death occurred in 14 (21%) of the patients, and these were characterized by one or more of the following features: (1) they were in functional Class III or IV, (2) they had moderate to severe cardiomegaly with a cardiothoracic ratio greater than 0.65, (3) they had cyanosis or an arterial oxygen saturation of less than 90%, and (4) they were infants when the diagnosis was made (10 patients, of whom 5 died). In patients in Class III or IV, a comparison was made between patients treated medically (10) and those treated surgically--either with tricuspid valve replacement (15) or with a modified tricuspid annuloplasty (16). It appears that modified tricuspid annuloplasty is the procedure of choice, because despite an operative mortality of 25% (4 patients), 12 of the 16 patients so treated improved clinically or had a reduction in heart size.", "contents": "Ebstein's anomaly: the clinical features and natural history of Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve. The clinical features and natural history of Ebstein's anomaly are analyzed on the basis of experience with 67 consecutive patients who have had a mean follow-up of 12 years. Of the total group, 26 (39%) of the patients remained in functional Class I or II and 41 (61%) progressed at some time into Class III or IV. Death occurred in 14 (21%) of the patients, and these were characterized by one or more of the following features: (1) they were in functional Class III or IV, (2) they had moderate to severe cardiomegaly with a cardiothoracic ratio greater than 0.65, (3) they had cyanosis or an arterial oxygen saturation of less than 90%, and (4) they were infants when the diagnosis was made (10 patients, of whom 5 died). In patients in Class III or IV, a comparison was made between patients treated medically (10) and those treated surgically--either with tricuspid valve replacement (15) or with a modified tricuspid annuloplasty (16). It appears that modified tricuspid annuloplasty is the procedure of choice, because despite an operative mortality of 25% (4 patients), 12 of the 16 patients so treated improved clinically or had a reduction in heart size.", "PMID": 431122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_692", "title": "Morphologic spectrum of Ebstein's anomaly of the heart: a review.", "content": "The rare and curious congenital malformation of the tricuspid valve known as Ebstein's disease or Ebstein's anomaly has been a subject of considerable interest to the cardiologist and the morphologist since its first description by Wilhelm Ebstein in 1866. With the evolution of various surgical techniques for the correction of this anomaly, a thorough understanding of the pathologic anatomy of the malformation assumes greater practical importance. It is now clear that although all hearts with Ebstein's anomaly have in common displaced basal insertions of the septal and posterior leaflets of the tricuspid valve, each case may be pathologically and hemodynamically unique. The malformed tricuspid valve may be incompetent, stenotic, or rarely, imperforate. It may be found in a left-sided tricuspid valve with inversion of ventricles. It is important that these individual variations be recognized so that the operative approach can be tailored to the particular variant of the malformation at hand.", "contents": "Morphologic spectrum of Ebstein's anomaly of the heart: a review. The rare and curious congenital malformation of the tricuspid valve known as Ebstein's disease or Ebstein's anomaly has been a subject of considerable interest to the cardiologist and the morphologist since its first description by Wilhelm Ebstein in 1866. With the evolution of various surgical techniques for the correction of this anomaly, a thorough understanding of the pathologic anatomy of the malformation assumes greater practical importance. It is now clear that although all hearts with Ebstein's anomaly have in common displaced basal insertions of the septal and posterior leaflets of the tricuspid valve, each case may be pathologically and hemodynamically unique. The malformed tricuspid valve may be incompetent, stenotic, or rarely, imperforate. It may be found in a left-sided tricuspid valve with inversion of ventricles. It is important that these individual variations be recognized so that the operative approach can be tailored to the particular variant of the malformation at hand.", "PMID": 431123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_693", "title": "The right ventricular myocardium in Ebstein's anomaly: a morphometric histopathologic study.", "content": "Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve is associated with right ventricular dilatation in approximately two-thirds of cases. Dilatation may be massive. It involves not only the right ventricular wall proximal to the tricuspid valve (atrialized ventricle) but also the right ventricle distal to the valve (funtional right ventricle), including the right ventricular infundibulum. For further definition of the pathogenesis of dilatation of the functional right ventricle (distal chamber), a morphometric histopathologic study was performed on 10 hearts with Ebstein's anomaly and 10 normal age-matched control hearts. In the group with Ebstein's anomaly, five hearts exhibited dilated ventricles and five did not. The study demonstrated that dilatation of the right ventricle in Ebstein's anomaly was associated not only with thinning of the wall but also with an absolute decrease in the number of myocardial fibers counted through the thickness of the wall from endocardium to epidcardium.", "contents": "The right ventricular myocardium in Ebstein's anomaly: a morphometric histopathologic study. Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve is associated with right ventricular dilatation in approximately two-thirds of cases. Dilatation may be massive. It involves not only the right ventricular wall proximal to the tricuspid valve (atrialized ventricle) but also the right ventricle distal to the valve (funtional right ventricle), including the right ventricular infundibulum. For further definition of the pathogenesis of dilatation of the functional right ventricle (distal chamber), a morphometric histopathologic study was performed on 10 hearts with Ebstein's anomaly and 10 normal age-matched control hearts. In the group with Ebstein's anomaly, five hearts exhibited dilated ventricles and five did not. The study demonstrated that dilatation of the right ventricle in Ebstein's anomaly was associated not only with thinning of the wall but also with an absolute decrease in the number of myocardial fibers counted through the thickness of the wall from endocardium to epidcardium.", "PMID": 431124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_694", "title": "Surgical repair of Ebstein's anomaly.", "content": "Ebstein's anomaly is a complex malformation that has been treated by various surgical techniques, with variable results. We have developed a repair-by plication of the free wall of the atrialized portion of the right ventricle, posterior tricuspid annuloplasty, and right atrial reduction--that has been used since 1972 in 16 patients. The repair is based on the construction of a monocusp valve by the use of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, which is usually enlarged in this anomaly. There were 14 operative survivors and no instances of complete heart block. Two patients with refractory dysrhythmias due to the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome underwent successful intraoperative epicardial and endocardial mapping and surgical division of accessory pathways. This repair has resulted in improvement in the operative mortality and in gratifying early and late results in most patients.", "contents": "Surgical repair of Ebstein's anomaly. Ebstein's anomaly is a complex malformation that has been treated by various surgical techniques, with variable results. We have developed a repair-by plication of the free wall of the atrialized portion of the right ventricle, posterior tricuspid annuloplasty, and right atrial reduction--that has been used since 1972 in 16 patients. The repair is based on the construction of a monocusp valve by the use of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, which is usually enlarged in this anomaly. There were 14 operative survivors and no instances of complete heart block. Two patients with refractory dysrhythmias due to the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome underwent successful intraoperative epicardial and endocardial mapping and surgical division of accessory pathways. This repair has resulted in improvement in the operative mortality and in gratifying early and late results in most patients.", "PMID": 431125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_695", "title": "Ebstein's anomaly in an 85-year-old man.", "content": "This is a report of the longest survival of a patient with Ebstein's anomaly. The patient had no cardiac symptoms until the age of 79 years, when he presented with severe tricuspid incompetence and congestive heart failure, from which he ultimately died. The diagnosis was established by utilizing two-dimensional sector echocardiography.", "contents": "Ebstein's anomaly in an 85-year-old man. This is a report of the longest survival of a patient with Ebstein's anomaly. The patient had no cardiac symptoms until the age of 79 years, when he presented with severe tricuspid incompetence and congestive heart failure, from which he ultimately died. The diagnosis was established by utilizing two-dimensional sector echocardiography.", "PMID": 431126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_696", "title": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. I. Design and initial screening results.", "content": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program implemented graduated programs for the control of high blood pressure in three rural southeastern Minnesota communities, beginning in 1974. Prevalence of hypertension (when defined as diastolic blood pressure, at initial screening, of 95 mm Hg or more) was similar to that found for comparable groups by age and sex in the United States generally, but an atypically high frequency of known but untreated hypertension was found. Programs of public and professional information, systematic household screening, continuing professional education (two communities), and a new community hypertension clinic (one community) were initiated, and plans were made to evaluate the programs simultaneously by means of total rescreening of persons found to be hypertensive initially. The present report describes in detail the design of the program and the results of initial screening in relation to findings in other populations at the time. Subsequent reports assess the impact of each program on its target community and of a community hypertension clinic within the one setting where this component of a model program was established.", "contents": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. I. Design and initial screening results. The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program implemented graduated programs for the control of high blood pressure in three rural southeastern Minnesota communities, beginning in 1974. Prevalence of hypertension (when defined as diastolic blood pressure, at initial screening, of 95 mm Hg or more) was similar to that found for comparable groups by age and sex in the United States generally, but an atypically high frequency of known but untreated hypertension was found. Programs of public and professional information, systematic household screening, continuing professional education (two communities), and a new community hypertension clinic (one community) were initiated, and plans were made to evaluate the programs simultaneously by means of total rescreening of persons found to be hypertensive initially. The present report describes in detail the design of the program and the results of initial screening in relation to findings in other populations at the time. Subsequent reports assess the impact of each program on its target community and of a community hypertension clinic within the one setting where this component of a model program was established.", "PMID": 431130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_697", "title": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. II. Outcome of intervention in entire communities.", "content": "A pronounced decline in blood pressure levels of hypertensive patients occurred in each of three rural Minnesota communities 1 to 2 years after the inception of community programs to control high blood pressure in these populations. An experimental hypertension clinic was established in one community to integrate a nurse practitioner into a physician-supervised program of long-term patient management. In the community with this innovative, partially subsidized practice arrangement, we observed declines in diastolic pressures of hypertensives. However, comparable degrees of blood pressure reduction occurred in the two other communities, with traditional solo or small group practice arrangements, where intervention was limited to detection and referral alone or was supplemented with continuing education of physicians in the management of hypertension. The evaluation of these three community programs suggests, among other conclusions, that this innovative community model for hypertension control, based on the recommendations of the Inter-Society Commission for Heart Disease Resources, contributed to favorable short-term blood pressure outcomes for the community. The observation of similar overall outcomes as measured by blood pressure reduction in all three communities was unexpected; the clinic's impact appears to have been matched by the effectiveness of screening and referral, alone or with continuing education, in the two other communities.", "contents": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. II. Outcome of intervention in entire communities. A pronounced decline in blood pressure levels of hypertensive patients occurred in each of three rural Minnesota communities 1 to 2 years after the inception of community programs to control high blood pressure in these populations. An experimental hypertension clinic was established in one community to integrate a nurse practitioner into a physician-supervised program of long-term patient management. In the community with this innovative, partially subsidized practice arrangement, we observed declines in diastolic pressures of hypertensives. However, comparable degrees of blood pressure reduction occurred in the two other communities, with traditional solo or small group practice arrangements, where intervention was limited to detection and referral alone or was supplemented with continuing education of physicians in the management of hypertension. The evaluation of these three community programs suggests, among other conclusions, that this innovative community model for hypertension control, based on the recommendations of the Inter-Society Commission for Heart Disease Resources, contributed to favorable short-term blood pressure outcomes for the community. The observation of similar overall outcomes as measured by blood pressure reduction in all three communities was unexpected; the clinic's impact appears to have been matched by the effectiveness of screening and referral, alone or with continuing education, in the two other communities.", "PMID": 431131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_698", "title": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. III. Outcome in a community-based hypertension clinic.", "content": "As part of a broader community program to evaluate approaches to hypertension control, a Community Hypertension Clinic, staffed by two nurse practitioners, was set up in a rural community. Hypertensive persons were identified either by an initial central blood pressure screening or by a subsequent home screening. Slightly more than half of the hypertensive patients at initial screening, or 256 persons, elected to go to the Community Hypertension Clinic for second-stage screening, whereas the remainder elected to see their physicians or to do neither. After secondary screening at the Clinic, 120 patients eventually came under care and were managed by the nurse practitioners. After 2 years of follow-up, 57% of the Clinic patients had office-recorded diastolic blood pressures of less than 90 mm Hg. The Community Hypertension Clinic dropout rate was only 5% after 30 months of operation, for participants whose duration of follow-up ranged from 12 to 27 months (median 16 months), when a repeat home blood pressure screening examination was performed. Comparison of outcomes was thus possible between persons who attended the Community Hypertension Clinic and those who were referred to their physicians' offices. Persons with more severe hypertension most often elected to go to the Clinic, whereas patients with milder degrees of hypertension tended to go to their private physicians for follow-up or failed to make the recommended second-stage screening contact altogether. Greater declines in blood pressure were observed in the Clinic group.", "contents": "The Mayo Three-Community Hypertension Control Program. III. Outcome in a community-based hypertension clinic. As part of a broader community program to evaluate approaches to hypertension control, a Community Hypertension Clinic, staffed by two nurse practitioners, was set up in a rural community. Hypertensive persons were identified either by an initial central blood pressure screening or by a subsequent home screening. Slightly more than half of the hypertensive patients at initial screening, or 256 persons, elected to go to the Community Hypertension Clinic for second-stage screening, whereas the remainder elected to see their physicians or to do neither. After secondary screening at the Clinic, 120 patients eventually came under care and were managed by the nurse practitioners. After 2 years of follow-up, 57% of the Clinic patients had office-recorded diastolic blood pressures of less than 90 mm Hg. The Community Hypertension Clinic dropout rate was only 5% after 30 months of operation, for participants whose duration of follow-up ranged from 12 to 27 months (median 16 months), when a repeat home blood pressure screening examination was performed. Comparison of outcomes was thus possible between persons who attended the Community Hypertension Clinic and those who were referred to their physicians' offices. Persons with more severe hypertension most often elected to go to the Clinic, whereas patients with milder degrees of hypertension tended to go to their private physicians for follow-up or failed to make the recommended second-stage screening contact altogether. Greater declines in blood pressure were observed in the Clinic group.", "PMID": 431132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_699", "title": "Albright's syndrome with rickets.", "content": "Four patients are reported who had Albright's syndrome, hypophosphatemia, and inappropriately low renal tubular reabsorption of phosphate. Three of the patients had radiologic evidence of rickets or osteomalacia, and the fourth had a bone biospy, which showed microradiographic evidence of a previous mineralization defect. Serum parathormone values were elevated before treatment in two patients. Intravenous infusions of calcium in one patient, and of calcium and parathormone in a second patient, showed appropriate target-organ responsiveness. Patients generally showed radiologic improvement of rickets after treatment with large doses of vitamin D, but such treatment failed to restore normal serum values of phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase. It is postulated that a substance elaborated from the dysplastic bone may be interfering with phosphate reabsorption in the renal tubule.", "contents": "Albright's syndrome with rickets. Four patients are reported who had Albright's syndrome, hypophosphatemia, and inappropriately low renal tubular reabsorption of phosphate. Three of the patients had radiologic evidence of rickets or osteomalacia, and the fourth had a bone biospy, which showed microradiographic evidence of a previous mineralization defect. Serum parathormone values were elevated before treatment in two patients. Intravenous infusions of calcium in one patient, and of calcium and parathormone in a second patient, showed appropriate target-organ responsiveness. Patients generally showed radiologic improvement of rickets after treatment with large doses of vitamin D, but such treatment failed to restore normal serum values of phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase. It is postulated that a substance elaborated from the dysplastic bone may be interfering with phosphate reabsorption in the renal tubule.", "PMID": 431133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_700", "title": "Adrenal scintiscanning with NP-59, a new radioiodinated cholesterol agent.", "content": "Adrenal imaging in the past has been limited in its clinical application by the long interval between administration of dose and visualization of adrenal glands. We review our experience with the use of a newer labeling agent, NP-59, in 29 patients with various adrenal disorders and in 4 normal subjects. With this agent, identification of adrenal lesions is possible with a high degree of accuracy, and diagnostic information is usually available within 48 hours. NP-59 is particularly useful in evaluating primary aldosteronism and selected cases of Cushing's syndrome.", "contents": "Adrenal scintiscanning with NP-59, a new radioiodinated cholesterol agent. Adrenal imaging in the past has been limited in its clinical application by the long interval between administration of dose and visualization of adrenal glands. We review our experience with the use of a newer labeling agent, NP-59, in 29 patients with various adrenal disorders and in 4 normal subjects. With this agent, identification of adrenal lesions is possible with a high degree of accuracy, and diagnostic information is usually available within 48 hours. NP-59 is particularly useful in evaluating primary aldosteronism and selected cases of Cushing's syndrome.", "PMID": 431134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_701", "title": "Severe pancreatic involvement in three generations in von Hippel-Lindau disease.", "content": "Von Hippel-Lindau disease is a hereditary neoplastic disorder that is most commonly manifested as vascular tumors of the retina and cerebellum. Although visceral involvement is uncommon and is almost always clinically silent, we have encountered three closely related patients with extensive symptomatic pancreatic involvement. One patient had pronounced exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.", "contents": "Severe pancreatic involvement in three generations in von Hippel-Lindau disease. Von Hippel-Lindau disease is a hereditary neoplastic disorder that is most commonly manifested as vascular tumors of the retina and cerebellum. Although visceral involvement is uncommon and is almost always clinically silent, we have encountered three closely related patients with extensive symptomatic pancreatic involvement. One patient had pronounced exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.", "PMID": 431135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_702", "title": "Demonstration of steroid-producing gonadal tumors by external scanning with the use of NP-59.", "content": "Bilateral testicular Leydig cell tumors in a patient with Nelson's syndrome and a Leydig cell tumor of the ovary in a woman with a virilizing syndrome were successfully imaged with [6beta-131I]iodomethyl-19-norcholest-5(10)-en-3beta-ol (NP-59). Uptake by these tumors was comparable to uptake by adrenal glands in patients with funtioning adrenal tumors or bilateral hyperplasia. Scanning the gonads with NP-59 may be a helpful imaging procedure in localizing possible sites for exploratory surgery in certain cases of gonadal neoplasia.", "contents": "Demonstration of steroid-producing gonadal tumors by external scanning with the use of NP-59. Bilateral testicular Leydig cell tumors in a patient with Nelson's syndrome and a Leydig cell tumor of the ovary in a woman with a virilizing syndrome were successfully imaged with [6beta-131I]iodomethyl-19-norcholest-5(10)-en-3beta-ol (NP-59). Uptake by these tumors was comparable to uptake by adrenal glands in patients with funtioning adrenal tumors or bilateral hyperplasia. Scanning the gonads with NP-59 may be a helpful imaging procedure in localizing possible sites for exploratory surgery in certain cases of gonadal neoplasia.", "PMID": 431136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_703", "title": "Utilization review and containment for hospital utilization: some implications of providing care in the \"most appropriate setting\".", "content": "The study examines the potential for savings in the use of hospital resources if utilization review policies succeed in curtailing excessive use of hospital facilities. Excessive use is defined as the utilization of hospital care when ambulatory care is medically feasible and acceptable. A utilization review policy would be expected to counteract the tendency to substitute inpatient for outpatient treatment by assuring that all patients with identical medical problems and demographic traits would be treated in an identical least cost setting regardless of their social and economic circumstances. It might, thus, ascertain that the use of hospital facilities would not be systematically affected by patients' non-medical or socioeconomic characteristics. Specifically, the study distinguishes between two types of utilization control policies, pre-admission certification and concurrent or continuing-stay review of hospital episodes, and asks how each can contain excessive utilization. It concludes that continuing-stay review is not likely to have any appreciable effect on shortening hospital episodes because the effects of nonmedical factors on extended stay are small and concentrated among patients whose diagnoses might not qualify them for hospitalization under a pre-admission screen. However, pre-admission certification has a considerable potential for containment of hospital utilization through the reduction in the number of admissions. Also, as a corollary, the study shows that utilization review policies should not be evaluated, as they often are, in terms of their effect on length-of-stay, but rather in terms of their effects on hospital admissions and case mix.", "contents": "Utilization review and containment for hospital utilization: some implications of providing care in the \"most appropriate setting\". The study examines the potential for savings in the use of hospital resources if utilization review policies succeed in curtailing excessive use of hospital facilities. Excessive use is defined as the utilization of hospital care when ambulatory care is medically feasible and acceptable. A utilization review policy would be expected to counteract the tendency to substitute inpatient for outpatient treatment by assuring that all patients with identical medical problems and demographic traits would be treated in an identical least cost setting regardless of their social and economic circumstances. It might, thus, ascertain that the use of hospital facilities would not be systematically affected by patients' non-medical or socioeconomic characteristics. Specifically, the study distinguishes between two types of utilization control policies, pre-admission certification and concurrent or continuing-stay review of hospital episodes, and asks how each can contain excessive utilization. It concludes that continuing-stay review is not likely to have any appreciable effect on shortening hospital episodes because the effects of nonmedical factors on extended stay are small and concentrated among patients whose diagnoses might not qualify them for hospitalization under a pre-admission screen. However, pre-admission certification has a considerable potential for containment of hospital utilization through the reduction in the number of admissions. Also, as a corollary, the study shows that utilization review policies should not be evaluated, as they often are, in terms of their effect on length-of-stay, but rather in terms of their effects on hospital admissions and case mix.", "PMID": 431144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_704", "title": "Validity of medical staff judgments in establishing quality assurance priorities.", "content": "The validation of a structured group judgment procedure to establish priorities for quality assurance activities was undertaken in six medical institutions in the United States. Validation focused on the extent to which health improvement could be documented by outcome-based projects focusing on priority topics. Predictive (criterion-related) validity was sought by analyzing five successively more stringent levels of evidence: 1) feasibility of implementing a quality assessment project within the topic areas selected by the prioity procedure; 2) accuracy of identifying health deficiencies or strengths; 3) verification of establishing correctable causes of health deficiencies; 4) capability of effecting significant improvement of health deficiencies; and 5) credibility of evidence that improvement achieved is directly attributable to corrective actions taken. Within the limits of generalizability, predictive validity was documented at every level of analysis. It is recommended that the structured group judgment process used in this study be more thoroughly evaluated and considered for quality assurance planning purposes.", "contents": "Validity of medical staff judgments in establishing quality assurance priorities. The validation of a structured group judgment procedure to establish priorities for quality assurance activities was undertaken in six medical institutions in the United States. Validation focused on the extent to which health improvement could be documented by outcome-based projects focusing on priority topics. Predictive (criterion-related) validity was sought by analyzing five successively more stringent levels of evidence: 1) feasibility of implementing a quality assessment project within the topic areas selected by the prioity procedure; 2) accuracy of identifying health deficiencies or strengths; 3) verification of establishing correctable causes of health deficiencies; 4) capability of effecting significant improvement of health deficiencies; and 5) credibility of evidence that improvement achieved is directly attributable to corrective actions taken. Within the limits of generalizability, predictive validity was documented at every level of analysis. It is recommended that the structured group judgment process used in this study be more thoroughly evaluated and considered for quality assurance planning purposes.", "PMID": 431145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_705", "title": "Hospital screening for tuberculosis: a quality assurance trial.", "content": "A quality assurance trial which dealth with tuberculin testing and isoniazid prophylaxis for tuberculosis infection among hospitalized patients was undertaken at a short-term, general hospital of the Indian Health Service. Standards for care were developed by the hospital staff using questionnaire and Delphi process techniques. Following the demonstration of baseline deficiencies in clinical performance, tuberculin testing became a standing admission order. Subsequent changes in the completeness of tuberculosis screening and in physician response to a positive tuberculin skin test were demonstrated. Among hospitalized patients of unknown tuberculin reactivity, PPD screening coverage increased from 45 per cent to 87 per cent (p less that 0.005). Improvement in the appropriate initiation of isoniazid prophylaxis was demonstrated. The absence of simultaneous changes in other health surveillance activities suggests that the improvement in tuberculosis screening was attributable to the quality assurance intervention and not to the other intervening variables. An approach to selecting alternatives for remedial action when quality assessment has documented a deficiency is presented and disucssed.", "contents": "Hospital screening for tuberculosis: a quality assurance trial. A quality assurance trial which dealth with tuberculin testing and isoniazid prophylaxis for tuberculosis infection among hospitalized patients was undertaken at a short-term, general hospital of the Indian Health Service. Standards for care were developed by the hospital staff using questionnaire and Delphi process techniques. Following the demonstration of baseline deficiencies in clinical performance, tuberculin testing became a standing admission order. Subsequent changes in the completeness of tuberculosis screening and in physician response to a positive tuberculin skin test were demonstrated. Among hospitalized patients of unknown tuberculin reactivity, PPD screening coverage increased from 45 per cent to 87 per cent (p less that 0.005). Improvement in the appropriate initiation of isoniazid prophylaxis was demonstrated. The absence of simultaneous changes in other health surveillance activities suggests that the improvement in tuberculosis screening was attributable to the quality assurance intervention and not to the other intervening variables. An approach to selecting alternatives for remedial action when quality assessment has documented a deficiency is presented and disucssed.", "PMID": 431146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_706", "title": "The use of length of stay distributions to predict hospital discharges.", "content": "Many hospital admissions scheduling or admissions control systems reported in the literature rely on estimates of future discharges to help control the variance in daily patient census. One of the two most frequently reported methods of estimating discharges attempts to explain the variance in historical length of stay (LPS) data. This paper explores the relationship between LOS variance explanation and the ability to predict discharges and concludes that even a large improvement in the ability to explain LOS variance will only marginally reduce the errors in the associated discharge predictions. In drawing this conclusion, a general discharge prediction model is developed and a more relevant statistic than per cent variance explained is introduced.", "contents": "The use of length of stay distributions to predict hospital discharges. Many hospital admissions scheduling or admissions control systems reported in the literature rely on estimates of future discharges to help control the variance in daily patient census. One of the two most frequently reported methods of estimating discharges attempts to explain the variance in historical length of stay (LPS) data. This paper explores the relationship between LOS variance explanation and the ability to predict discharges and concludes that even a large improvement in the ability to explain LOS variance will only marginally reduce the errors in the associated discharge predictions. In drawing this conclusion, a general discharge prediction model is developed and a more relevant statistic than per cent variance explained is introduced.", "PMID": 431147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_707", "title": "An analysis of case mix complexity using information theory and diagnostic related grouping.", "content": "Case mix complexity measurements are essential to determine health care efficiency and effectiveness. Measures of patient care processes and outcomes must be adjusted for case mix before valid comparisons can be made. Hospital reimbursement, particularly prospective reimbursement, must take into account differences in case mix. In addition, a key variable for hospital classification is case mix. There are, however, no widely accepted easily computed case mix measures. Information theory measures of case mix have been developed but their acceptance has been limited by a lack of verification of their basic assumption that concentration of disease is related to clinical complexity. We discuss the rationale underlying the mathematical computaton of information theory measures and demonstrate a statistically significant relationship between clinical measures of case mix complexity and information theory measures of case mix complexity.", "contents": "An analysis of case mix complexity using information theory and diagnostic related grouping. Case mix complexity measurements are essential to determine health care efficiency and effectiveness. Measures of patient care processes and outcomes must be adjusted for case mix before valid comparisons can be made. Hospital reimbursement, particularly prospective reimbursement, must take into account differences in case mix. In addition, a key variable for hospital classification is case mix. There are, however, no widely accepted easily computed case mix measures. Information theory measures of case mix have been developed but their acceptance has been limited by a lack of verification of their basic assumption that concentration of disease is related to clinical complexity. We discuss the rationale underlying the mathematical computaton of information theory measures and demonstrate a statistically significant relationship between clinical measures of case mix complexity and information theory measures of case mix complexity.", "PMID": 431148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_708", "title": "Variations in surgery in Ontario.", "content": "In 1974 there was five-to eight-fold variation in the frequency with which tonsillectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, cholecystectomy and appendectomy were performed in Ontario's 49 counties. All five procedures were resource sensitive; over 50 per cent of the variation in rates was explained by numbers of acute care treatment beds and physicians. Generally, counties with high or low rates for any one procedure had corresponding rates for the other four. The highest rates were found in less populous rural eastern Ontario counties, while university teaching centers ranked among the lowest for all five operations although they had the highest ratios of beds, general practitioners and surgeons. Linkages between university medical centers and community hospitals, widespread dissemination of surgical rate data, surgical audit and review of surgical indications and practices in university centers and community hospitals are proposed to aid in rationalizing surgical practices in Ontario.", "contents": "Variations in surgery in Ontario. In 1974 there was five-to eight-fold variation in the frequency with which tonsillectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, cholecystectomy and appendectomy were performed in Ontario's 49 counties. All five procedures were resource sensitive; over 50 per cent of the variation in rates was explained by numbers of acute care treatment beds and physicians. Generally, counties with high or low rates for any one procedure had corresponding rates for the other four. The highest rates were found in less populous rural eastern Ontario counties, while university teaching centers ranked among the lowest for all five operations although they had the highest ratios of beds, general practitioners and surgeons. Linkages between university medical centers and community hospitals, widespread dissemination of surgical rate data, surgical audit and review of surgical indications and practices in university centers and community hospitals are proposed to aid in rationalizing surgical practices in Ontario.", "PMID": 431149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_709", "title": "Innovations: components of bundles.", "content": "Acceptance by target populations of new programs funded by government is a phenomenon which one should be able to explain with existing innovation theory. In a study of a newly formed group health practice, funded in part by OEO, it is found that a commonly used set of predictors has little utility in explaining individuals' adoption decisions or their levels of knowledge and attitudes regarding the program. Additional analysis suggests that the ways in which potential and actual clients reacted to certain components of the program \"bundle\" determined their decisions.", "contents": "Innovations: components of bundles. Acceptance by target populations of new programs funded by government is a phenomenon which one should be able to explain with existing innovation theory. In a study of a newly formed group health practice, funded in part by OEO, it is found that a commonly used set of predictors has little utility in explaining individuals' adoption decisions or their levels of knowledge and attitudes regarding the program. Additional analysis suggests that the ways in which potential and actual clients reacted to certain components of the program \"bundle\" determined their decisions.", "PMID": 431150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_710", "title": "Evaluation of economic effects of drug product selection legislation.", "content": "Drug product selection legislation is intended to achieve savings in the cost of prescription drugs without adversely affecting the quality of care by allowing pharmacists the opportunity to dispense less costly generically equivalent drug products in place of the product which had been prescribed by the physician. Various conditions under which the pharmacists are authorized by state laws to exercise theoption to substitute are discussed. The study then identifies and examines the conditions under which savings may and do occur, using the legislation in Michigan as the model. Over 60,000 acutal prescriptions were examined for the three-year period, April 1, 1974 through March 31, 1977--which covers the period of the year immediately before the legislation became effective and the two subsequent years-to determine: 1) the extent to which substitution is possible; 2) potential savings from generic substitution; and 3) very substantial potential cost savings from drug product selection, the actual savings represent only an extremely small proportion of the potential. This principally is due to the fact of the low rate of substitution among eligible prescriptions. Thus, if the gap between actual and potential savings is to be reduced, more attention must be given to affecting the pattern of drug selection among pharmacists.", "contents": "Evaluation of economic effects of drug product selection legislation. Drug product selection legislation is intended to achieve savings in the cost of prescription drugs without adversely affecting the quality of care by allowing pharmacists the opportunity to dispense less costly generically equivalent drug products in place of the product which had been prescribed by the physician. Various conditions under which the pharmacists are authorized by state laws to exercise theoption to substitute are discussed. The study then identifies and examines the conditions under which savings may and do occur, using the legislation in Michigan as the model. Over 60,000 acutal prescriptions were examined for the three-year period, April 1, 1974 through March 31, 1977--which covers the period of the year immediately before the legislation became effective and the two subsequent years-to determine: 1) the extent to which substitution is possible; 2) potential savings from generic substitution; and 3) very substantial potential cost savings from drug product selection, the actual savings represent only an extremely small proportion of the potential. This principally is due to the fact of the low rate of substitution among eligible prescriptions. Thus, if the gap between actual and potential savings is to be reduced, more attention must be given to affecting the pattern of drug selection among pharmacists.", "PMID": 431151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_711", "title": "Utilization of hospital services in the Individual Practice Association on Guam: a comparative analysis.", "content": "The HMO Act of 1973 gives impetus on a nationwide scale to the development of health care delivery systems capable of providing or arranging for comprehensive health services for our nation's consumers. However, while the organizational mode of the group-practice model HMO is well defined and tested, there has not been a similar \"track record\" established for the individual practice HMO. In this study, the author compares the utilization of hospital beds in two operating programs: an individual practice and a group-practice HMO, serving employees of the Government of Guam, U.S.A. Substantial differences in utilization between the two systems are observed over a 12-month period. With the focus on developing the IPA to meet the objectives for which it is intended, it is suggested that organizational structure, provider incentives, and how utilization controls were employed account for the discrepancy.", "contents": "Utilization of hospital services in the Individual Practice Association on Guam: a comparative analysis. The HMO Act of 1973 gives impetus on a nationwide scale to the development of health care delivery systems capable of providing or arranging for comprehensive health services for our nation's consumers. However, while the organizational mode of the group-practice model HMO is well defined and tested, there has not been a similar \"track record\" established for the individual practice HMO. In this study, the author compares the utilization of hospital beds in two operating programs: an individual practice and a group-practice HMO, serving employees of the Government of Guam, U.S.A. Substantial differences in utilization between the two systems are observed over a 12-month period. With the focus on developing the IPA to meet the objectives for which it is intended, it is suggested that organizational structure, provider incentives, and how utilization controls were employed account for the discrepancy.", "PMID": 431152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_712", "title": "Use of physician services under two prepaid plans.", "content": "Use of physician services under two prepaid plans offered to Stanford University staff is analyzed and compared. One is a Kaiser plan; under the other (Clinic plan), physician and outpatient ancillary services are provided by a predominantly fee-for-service group practice and hospital services are covered by a Blue Cross policy. The two plans provide much the same benefits but, in addition to the difference in their organization, they differ in their financial provisions. While the Kaiser plan has only a token copayment for office and home visits, the Clinic plan has a 25 per cent coinsurance provision applying to all physician and outpatient ancillary services. Despite these differences, the mean number of physician visits per year is the same for the two groups after account is taken of differences in age composition, socioeconomic status, health status, attitudes toward seeking care, length of plan membership, family size and satisfaction with the plan. However, when adjustment is also made for differences in physician affiliation, the Kaiser rate becomes half a visit higher than the Clinic rate. This is because under both plans, members who have a specific plan physician as regular source of care use more services than those without one, and because only 42 per cent of Kaiser members compared with 87 per cent of Clinic members stated that they had a specific plan physician.", "contents": "Use of physician services under two prepaid plans. Use of physician services under two prepaid plans offered to Stanford University staff is analyzed and compared. One is a Kaiser plan; under the other (Clinic plan), physician and outpatient ancillary services are provided by a predominantly fee-for-service group practice and hospital services are covered by a Blue Cross policy. The two plans provide much the same benefits but, in addition to the difference in their organization, they differ in their financial provisions. While the Kaiser plan has only a token copayment for office and home visits, the Clinic plan has a 25 per cent coinsurance provision applying to all physician and outpatient ancillary services. Despite these differences, the mean number of physician visits per year is the same for the two groups after account is taken of differences in age composition, socioeconomic status, health status, attitudes toward seeking care, length of plan membership, family size and satisfaction with the plan. However, when adjustment is also made for differences in physician affiliation, the Kaiser rate becomes half a visit higher than the Clinic rate. This is because under both plans, members who have a specific plan physician as regular source of care use more services than those without one, and because only 42 per cent of Kaiser members compared with 87 per cent of Clinic members stated that they had a specific plan physician.", "PMID": 431153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_713", "title": "Satisfaction with medical care: its measurement and relation to utilization.", "content": "Both the conceptualization and the measurement of satisfaction have been of major concern in medical care research. Some scholars used satisfaction as a determinant of utilization, others as a consequence of utilization. Measures of satisfaction are largely content oriented. Reliabilities are reported, but validity is usually assumed (face validity) or assessed through correlations with a criterion variable like \"wish to change providers.\" Using multidimensional scaling techniques, this study identifies several components in the construct \"satisfaction\" and relates them to the utilization of services. A general satisfaction measure provides us with an assessment of physicians and the medical care delivered, a specific satisfaction measure assesses past experience with the regular source of the care. Both of these can be divided into a positive and negative subcluster. Regressions were computed predicting satisfaction from utilization, and utilization from satisfaction, each time controlling in a preceding step for sociodemographic factors. The relationships varied strongly by provider; as a rule, a larger proportion of the variance could be explained analyzing for one provider at a time than for all providers combined. Analyzing one provider at a time showed that satisfaction substantially increased the proportion of explained variance in utilization in hierarchical regression, but utilization did not increase the explained variance in satisfaction.", "contents": "Satisfaction with medical care: its measurement and relation to utilization. Both the conceptualization and the measurement of satisfaction have been of major concern in medical care research. Some scholars used satisfaction as a determinant of utilization, others as a consequence of utilization. Measures of satisfaction are largely content oriented. Reliabilities are reported, but validity is usually assumed (face validity) or assessed through correlations with a criterion variable like \"wish to change providers.\" Using multidimensional scaling techniques, this study identifies several components in the construct \"satisfaction\" and relates them to the utilization of services. A general satisfaction measure provides us with an assessment of physicians and the medical care delivered, a specific satisfaction measure assesses past experience with the regular source of the care. Both of these can be divided into a positive and negative subcluster. Regressions were computed predicting satisfaction from utilization, and utilization from satisfaction, each time controlling in a preceding step for sociodemographic factors. The relationships varied strongly by provider; as a rule, a larger proportion of the variance could be explained analyzing for one provider at a time than for all providers combined. Analyzing one provider at a time showed that satisfaction substantially increased the proportion of explained variance in utilization in hierarchical regression, but utilization did not increase the explained variance in satisfaction.", "PMID": 431154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_714", "title": "Quality assessment and the art of medicine: the anatomy of laceration care.", "content": "Assuring high quality medical care has remained an elusive goal because of several problems which have hampered development of effective medical audit programs: inadequate patient data, unreasonable evaluative criteria and insensitive audit procedures. The present study demonstrates the use of a clinical algorithm to help overcome these problems. An examination of medical record data from a series of 703 laceration patients treated in an emergency service yielded only 27 cases (4 per cent) with medical records sufficiently complete to use for auditing physician compliance with algorithmic criteria. Substituting a structured checklist for the handwritten note increased this rate to 86 per cent. A computer-assisted branching audit of 1,400 laceration cases demonstrated that 1) physician compliance with an algorithmic instruction varied significantly (p less than .001) according to the specific instruction, and 2) compliance with a given instruction varied significantly (p less than .001) across different providers. These results underscore the need for medical audit with educational feedback which is provider specific.", "contents": "Quality assessment and the art of medicine: the anatomy of laceration care. Assuring high quality medical care has remained an elusive goal because of several problems which have hampered development of effective medical audit programs: inadequate patient data, unreasonable evaluative criteria and insensitive audit procedures. The present study demonstrates the use of a clinical algorithm to help overcome these problems. An examination of medical record data from a series of 703 laceration patients treated in an emergency service yielded only 27 cases (4 per cent) with medical records sufficiently complete to use for auditing physician compliance with algorithmic criteria. Substituting a structured checklist for the handwritten note increased this rate to 86 per cent. A computer-assisted branching audit of 1,400 laceration cases demonstrated that 1) physician compliance with an algorithmic instruction varied significantly (p less than .001) according to the specific instruction, and 2) compliance with a given instruction varied significantly (p less than .001) across different providers. These results underscore the need for medical audit with educational feedback which is provider specific.", "PMID": 431155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_715", "title": "[Postoperative care in portal hypertension surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "The postoperative courses of 26 patients admitted to an Intensive Care Unit after different types of surgery on their portal tree are studied. All were diagnosed as having portal hypertension secondary to chronic liver disease and had presented one or more episodes of bleeding. Those complications of greater risk with an important early mortality rate are: 1) recurrence of the gastrointestinal hemorrhage, independently of the type of lesion which originates it; 2) recurrence of ascites because these patients more often develop dehiscence of the abdominal wall, serious dilutional hyponatremia and severe functional renal insufficiency; 3) acute renal failure, both functional or caused by an organic tubulo-interstitial nephropathy; 4) peritonitis; 5) persistent hepatolytic episode; 6) hyperdynamic heart failure; and 7) re-operations in general, independently of the causes. The frequency of these complications and the greater or lesser seriousness of their development in the postoperative period are dependent on: 1) the age of the patient with a better prognosis for those under 50; 2) the histopathologic type of the hepatic lesion, with hepatic fibrosis having a more favourable evolution in comparison with cirrhosis; 3) the degree of decompensation of the hepatopathy immediately before the operation, evaluating signs of functional hepatic deficit, cytolysis and degree of portal hypertension. The greater the preoperative activity, the worse the postsurgical prognosis. 4) The elective or urgent character of the surgery. During the postoperative course of emergency surgery all types of complications may appear. The emergency operation which has effectively achieved the stopping of the esophageal bleeding has been the porto-azygos disconnection, which allows later a portosystemic shunt with a greater probability of success. 5) The type of anastomosis carried out. Radicular shunts were those which had a lower postoperative mortality rate and those which progressed better because of the small number of problems occurring in the early postoperative period.", "contents": "[Postoperative care in portal hypertension surgery (author's transl)]. The postoperative courses of 26 patients admitted to an Intensive Care Unit after different types of surgery on their portal tree are studied. All were diagnosed as having portal hypertension secondary to chronic liver disease and had presented one or more episodes of bleeding. Those complications of greater risk with an important early mortality rate are: 1) recurrence of the gastrointestinal hemorrhage, independently of the type of lesion which originates it; 2) recurrence of ascites because these patients more often develop dehiscence of the abdominal wall, serious dilutional hyponatremia and severe functional renal insufficiency; 3) acute renal failure, both functional or caused by an organic tubulo-interstitial nephropathy; 4) peritonitis; 5) persistent hepatolytic episode; 6) hyperdynamic heart failure; and 7) re-operations in general, independently of the causes. The frequency of these complications and the greater or lesser seriousness of their development in the postoperative period are dependent on: 1) the age of the patient with a better prognosis for those under 50; 2) the histopathologic type of the hepatic lesion, with hepatic fibrosis having a more favourable evolution in comparison with cirrhosis; 3) the degree of decompensation of the hepatopathy immediately before the operation, evaluating signs of functional hepatic deficit, cytolysis and degree of portal hypertension. The greater the preoperative activity, the worse the postsurgical prognosis. 4) The elective or urgent character of the surgery. During the postoperative course of emergency surgery all types of complications may appear. The emergency operation which has effectively achieved the stopping of the esophageal bleeding has been the porto-azygos disconnection, which allows later a portosystemic shunt with a greater probability of success. 5) The type of anastomosis carried out. Radicular shunts were those which had a lower postoperative mortality rate and those which progressed better because of the small number of problems occurring in the early postoperative period.", "PMID": 431156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_716", "title": "[Treatment of acute respiratory insufficiency in an intensive care unit (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical records of 304 patients with acute respiratory insufficiency were studied in retrospect. All of them had been treated in an Intensive Care Unit during its first year and a half of operation. One hundred and thirty-one patients suffered from chronic obstructive lung disease and acute episodes of chronic respiratory insufficiency. The remaining 173 had acute respiratory insufficiency due to various etiologies. The overall survival for patients with acute episodes of chronic respiratory insufficiency was 66 percent, significantly higher than the 53 percent survival of patients with acute conditions (p less than 0.02). Sixty percent of the chronic cases had to be treated with mechanical ventilation; the mortality rate was 45 percent. Mortality was 70 percent among individuals with acute conditions who received mechanical ventilation. Almost two thirds of deaths occurring in acute cases resulted from non-respiratory complications. Mortality due to respiratory causes was significantly higher in patients with chronic conditions (p less than 0.01). Twenty-three of the 171 patients given artificial ventilation (13 percent) presented secondary respiratory complications as a result. The incidence of pneumothorax was 5 percent and a statistically significant association between barotrauma and PEEP was found (p less than 0.05).", "contents": "[Treatment of acute respiratory insufficiency in an intensive care unit (author's transl)]. The clinical records of 304 patients with acute respiratory insufficiency were studied in retrospect. All of them had been treated in an Intensive Care Unit during its first year and a half of operation. One hundred and thirty-one patients suffered from chronic obstructive lung disease and acute episodes of chronic respiratory insufficiency. The remaining 173 had acute respiratory insufficiency due to various etiologies. The overall survival for patients with acute episodes of chronic respiratory insufficiency was 66 percent, significantly higher than the 53 percent survival of patients with acute conditions (p less than 0.02). Sixty percent of the chronic cases had to be treated with mechanical ventilation; the mortality rate was 45 percent. Mortality was 70 percent among individuals with acute conditions who received mechanical ventilation. Almost two thirds of deaths occurring in acute cases resulted from non-respiratory complications. Mortality due to respiratory causes was significantly higher in patients with chronic conditions (p less than 0.01). Twenty-three of the 171 patients given artificial ventilation (13 percent) presented secondary respiratory complications as a result. The incidence of pneumothorax was 5 percent and a statistically significant association between barotrauma and PEEP was found (p less than 0.05).", "PMID": 431160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_717", "title": "[Diabetes and pregnancy. A prospective study of 14 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Fourteen pregnant women with diabetes mellitus according to White's classification were studied. The presence or absence of bad signs of prognosis in pregnancy were noted throughout gestation. The development of microangiopathic lesions was evaluated at the beginning and end of gestation by direct ophthalmoscopy with two observers. Microangiopathic lesions were found at the end of gestation in some patients who had not had them at the beginning. This would suggest that pregnancy is a risk factor in the development of diabetic retinopathy. The lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio in the amniotic fluid was determined by thin-layer chromatography as an index of fetal respiratory maturity. This determination served as a reliable index of maturity in all cases except one. Lastly, fetal morbidity and mortality were established according to previous determined classifications.", "contents": "[Diabetes and pregnancy. A prospective study of 14 cases (author's transl)]. Fourteen pregnant women with diabetes mellitus according to White's classification were studied. The presence or absence of bad signs of prognosis in pregnancy were noted throughout gestation. The development of microangiopathic lesions was evaluated at the beginning and end of gestation by direct ophthalmoscopy with two observers. Microangiopathic lesions were found at the end of gestation in some patients who had not had them at the beginning. This would suggest that pregnancy is a risk factor in the development of diabetic retinopathy. The lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio in the amniotic fluid was determined by thin-layer chromatography as an index of fetal respiratory maturity. This determination served as a reliable index of maturity in all cases except one. Lastly, fetal morbidity and mortality were established according to previous determined classifications.", "PMID": 431161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_718", "title": "[Clinical study of gastric lymphomas and pseudolymphomas (author's transl)].", "content": "The differentiation between gastric lymphomas and pseudolymphomas represents a clinical, surgical, and pathologic problem affecting both prognosis and therapy. Twenty patients were diagnosed for gastric lymphomas or gastric pseudolymphomas. Only those in stages IE or IIE were included in the first group (13 patients). Pseudolymphomas were diagnosed in seven patients on the basis of histopathologic criteria; all seven had peptic ulcers. Survival among the 13 patients diagnosed for lymphomas was low; six of them died within the first year. The seven cases diagnosed as pseudolymphoma progressed favorably over periods between 2 months and 5 years. The histologic parameters on which the differentiation of the two conditions was based included: a) cell type; b) distribution and limits of infiltration; c) presence of peptic ulcers in pseudolymphomas; and c) characteristics of the regional lymph nodes. The various possible mechanisms of pseudolymphomatous reaction are discussed. It is suggested that the relatively good prognosis reported in some series of gastric lymphomas may be due to the inclusion of pseudolymphomas. There is obvious justification for distinguishing between this two conditions.", "contents": "[Clinical study of gastric lymphomas and pseudolymphomas (author's transl)]. The differentiation between gastric lymphomas and pseudolymphomas represents a clinical, surgical, and pathologic problem affecting both prognosis and therapy. Twenty patients were diagnosed for gastric lymphomas or gastric pseudolymphomas. Only those in stages IE or IIE were included in the first group (13 patients). Pseudolymphomas were diagnosed in seven patients on the basis of histopathologic criteria; all seven had peptic ulcers. Survival among the 13 patients diagnosed for lymphomas was low; six of them died within the first year. The seven cases diagnosed as pseudolymphoma progressed favorably over periods between 2 months and 5 years. The histologic parameters on which the differentiation of the two conditions was based included: a) cell type; b) distribution and limits of infiltration; c) presence of peptic ulcers in pseudolymphomas; and c) characteristics of the regional lymph nodes. The various possible mechanisms of pseudolymphomatous reaction are discussed. It is suggested that the relatively good prognosis reported in some series of gastric lymphomas may be due to the inclusion of pseudolymphomas. There is obvious justification for distinguishing between this two conditions.", "PMID": 431162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_719", "title": "[Eosinophilic pleural effusion during the course of a giardiasis. Report of a case (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of eosinophilic pleural effusion with coincidental intestinal infestation by Giardia lamblia is reported. After reviewing the possible causes of this type of pleuritis no clinical or laboratory data were obtained which could explain this condition, excepting the giardiasis, in the course of which there is no bibliographic reference in this sense. After the parasitosis had been treated with metronidazole the parasitologic negativization coincided with the disappearance of the pleural effusion. A review of the etiologies described in relation to eosinophilic pleural effusion and of the factors involved in the movilization of eosinophils, especially those which have a relationship with parasitosis, was carried out. Parasitosis may be capable of determining immune reactions with release of eosinophilotactic substances. The fact that the lung of experimental animals has been shown to be a suitable tissue for the release of factors with eosinophilotactic activity, could indicate that this organ has a special reactive capacity and probably, together with it, a closely related structure such as the pleura could have it too.", "contents": "[Eosinophilic pleural effusion during the course of a giardiasis. Report of a case (author's transl)]. A case of eosinophilic pleural effusion with coincidental intestinal infestation by Giardia lamblia is reported. After reviewing the possible causes of this type of pleuritis no clinical or laboratory data were obtained which could explain this condition, excepting the giardiasis, in the course of which there is no bibliographic reference in this sense. After the parasitosis had been treated with metronidazole the parasitologic negativization coincided with the disappearance of the pleural effusion. A review of the etiologies described in relation to eosinophilic pleural effusion and of the factors involved in the movilization of eosinophils, especially those which have a relationship with parasitosis, was carried out. Parasitosis may be capable of determining immune reactions with release of eosinophilotactic substances. The fact that the lung of experimental animals has been shown to be a suitable tissue for the release of factors with eosinophilotactic activity, could indicate that this organ has a special reactive capacity and probably, together with it, a closely related structure such as the pleura could have it too.", "PMID": 431163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_720", "title": "[Dementia and hemodialysis (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors present a 60-year-old patient undergoing periodic hemodialysis who, 3 years after beginning the treatment, developed a clinical picture consisting of disturbances of language, motor dispraxia, loss of memory and concentration, irritability, great change of personality, myoclonias and asterixis. This led progressively to a total loss of motor coordination, including speech. He died 5 months later in a state of dementia, psychosis and incontinence of sphincters. The symptomatology increased after hemodialysis sessions. The normal analytical studies carried out in these cases (electrocardiogram, electromyography, complete roentgenologic study) and also Zn, Cu, and ceruloplasmin measurements were normal. The electroencephalogram showed only a slow tracing with delta waves. Various etiopathogenic possibilities are commented on, as for example alterations in the dialysis water, the use of detergents in cleaning the artificial kidney, a syndrome of imbalance, a decrease in the body potassium and poisoning caused by certain metals such as tin, zinc and aluminium or by drugs which contain benzodiazepine derivatives. The authors conclude that the picture corresponds to a metabolic encephalopathy.", "contents": "[Dementia and hemodialysis (author's transl)]. The authors present a 60-year-old patient undergoing periodic hemodialysis who, 3 years after beginning the treatment, developed a clinical picture consisting of disturbances of language, motor dispraxia, loss of memory and concentration, irritability, great change of personality, myoclonias and asterixis. This led progressively to a total loss of motor coordination, including speech. He died 5 months later in a state of dementia, psychosis and incontinence of sphincters. The symptomatology increased after hemodialysis sessions. The normal analytical studies carried out in these cases (electrocardiogram, electromyography, complete roentgenologic study) and also Zn, Cu, and ceruloplasmin measurements were normal. The electroencephalogram showed only a slow tracing with delta waves. Various etiopathogenic possibilities are commented on, as for example alterations in the dialysis water, the use of detergents in cleaning the artificial kidney, a syndrome of imbalance, a decrease in the body potassium and poisoning caused by certain metals such as tin, zinc and aluminium or by drugs which contain benzodiazepine derivatives. The authors conclude that the picture corresponds to a metabolic encephalopathy.", "PMID": 431164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_721", "title": "[Urolithiasis among flight personnel (author's transl)].", "content": "Urinary calculosis is, according to the different medical statistics, one of the most common diseases among flight personnel. The causes which favour urolithiasis are reviewed in relation with the flight factors themselves and the type of life which these professionals lead. Diet, low intake of fluids, and the loss of water through the skin and lungs, are together with the sedentary nature of the work the most obvious causes as etiological factors. The risks which this pathology supposes for flight personnel and their suitability for flight under these conditions are studied. Likewise, the measures which should be established to prevent this anomaly as far as possible are reviewed.", "contents": "[Urolithiasis among flight personnel (author's transl)]. Urinary calculosis is, according to the different medical statistics, one of the most common diseases among flight personnel. The causes which favour urolithiasis are reviewed in relation with the flight factors themselves and the type of life which these professionals lead. Diet, low intake of fluids, and the loss of water through the skin and lungs, are together with the sedentary nature of the work the most obvious causes as etiological factors. The risks which this pathology supposes for flight personnel and their suitability for flight under these conditions are studied. Likewise, the measures which should be established to prevent this anomaly as far as possible are reviewed.", "PMID": 431165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_722", "title": "[Result of the administration of high doses of bumetanide to patients with chronic renal failure who are on a program of hemodialysis (author's transl)].", "content": "High doses of furosemide were given to patients with chronic renal failure who were on a program of dialysis with the aim of achieving less frequent dialysis or a more liberal diet for these patients. The result of the oral administration of 12 mg of bumetanide per day in 12 patients with renal insufficiency submitted to periodic hemodialysis were evaluated. The residual renal function of these patients varied between 1.5 and 6 ml/min of creatinine clearance. A significant variation could not be established in the predialysis values of urea, creatinine or potassium, nor of the interdialysis weight increase, nor of the urinary excretion of Na and K. On the contrary, the predialysis natremia levels varied from 133 to 138 mEq/l (p less than 0.01) under the effect of the medication and this coincided with a significant increase of the diuresis. As secondary effect the authors frequently recorded myalgia of variable intensity without significant changes in the serum enzymes of muscular origin.", "contents": "[Result of the administration of high doses of bumetanide to patients with chronic renal failure who are on a program of hemodialysis (author's transl)]. High doses of furosemide were given to patients with chronic renal failure who were on a program of dialysis with the aim of achieving less frequent dialysis or a more liberal diet for these patients. The result of the oral administration of 12 mg of bumetanide per day in 12 patients with renal insufficiency submitted to periodic hemodialysis were evaluated. The residual renal function of these patients varied between 1.5 and 6 ml/min of creatinine clearance. A significant variation could not be established in the predialysis values of urea, creatinine or potassium, nor of the interdialysis weight increase, nor of the urinary excretion of Na and K. On the contrary, the predialysis natremia levels varied from 133 to 138 mEq/l (p less than 0.01) under the effect of the medication and this coincided with a significant increase of the diuresis. As secondary effect the authors frequently recorded myalgia of variable intensity without significant changes in the serum enzymes of muscular origin.", "PMID": 431166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_723", "title": "[Vascular approach for periodic hemodialysis. Clinical course of 100 internal arteriovenous fistulas (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical course of 100 internal arteriovenous fistulas in patients observed over a period of more than 6 months was analyzed. Ninety-six were practiced in the upper extremities as side-to-side anastomoses in the forearm between the radial artery and the nearest vein; three were constructed in the lower limbs as anastomoses between the femoral artery and the internal saphenous vein; and one was an autograft of the saphenous vein in the forearm. The most important complications observed were thrombosis (arising chiefly from scant venous development, surgical procedures, and episodes of arterial hypotension), distal ischemia, distal venous flow, infection of the fistula, and insufficient flow. A blood flow over 350 ml/min was achieved in all except two patients. The actuarial survival of individuals with arteriovenous fistulas is high at the present time, with 86 percent of the fistulas functioning after 3 years. The longest period of satisfactory arteriovenous fistula function is 8 years and 3 months.", "contents": "[Vascular approach for periodic hemodialysis. Clinical course of 100 internal arteriovenous fistulas (author's transl)]. The clinical course of 100 internal arteriovenous fistulas in patients observed over a period of more than 6 months was analyzed. Ninety-six were practiced in the upper extremities as side-to-side anastomoses in the forearm between the radial artery and the nearest vein; three were constructed in the lower limbs as anastomoses between the femoral artery and the internal saphenous vein; and one was an autograft of the saphenous vein in the forearm. The most important complications observed were thrombosis (arising chiefly from scant venous development, surgical procedures, and episodes of arterial hypotension), distal ischemia, distal venous flow, infection of the fistula, and insufficient flow. A blood flow over 350 ml/min was achieved in all except two patients. The actuarial survival of individuals with arteriovenous fistulas is high at the present time, with 86 percent of the fistulas functioning after 3 years. The longest period of satisfactory arteriovenous fistula function is 8 years and 3 months.", "PMID": 431171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_724", "title": "[Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris. Report of an observation with multiple dysplasia (author's transl)].", "content": "The case of a female patient with multiple ectodermal and mesodermal malformations present since birth is reported. The cutaneous lesions were of two types: Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris. These entities have been described in the literature as congenital dermatologic alterations of nevoid character and organoid structure. They can be considered as congenital epidermal nevi. In many cases, including this one, there are various associated disorders especially of the nervous system, eyes, and skeleton. Both syndromes are cutaneous hamartomas which can be differentiated histologically but not by the anomalies accompanying them. Their dermatologic aspects are very similar. The histopathologic characteristics of the skin lesions of nevus unius lateris consist of hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, and epidermal papillomatosis. In Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus there are also alterations of the skin adnexa, namely the absence of hair follicles and the presence of numerous mature sebaceus and hyperplastic glands. In general, the presence of organoid nevus may be a sign of multiple ectodermal and mesodermal malformations. Both syndromes are often present in the same patient, as in the case described here, and their etiology is the same. It is based on an alteration in embryogenic development affecting primarily, though not exclusively, the formations of ectodermal origin. Thus Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris are both forms of phacomatosis. Clinical cases have in common the cutaneous cited above, either in combination or singly. The other possible signs and symptoms are variable, depending on which stage of embryogenic development is affected. There may be defects in the structures of both ectodermal and mesodermal origin.", "contents": "[Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris. Report of an observation with multiple dysplasia (author's transl)]. The case of a female patient with multiple ectodermal and mesodermal malformations present since birth is reported. The cutaneous lesions were of two types: Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris. These entities have been described in the literature as congenital dermatologic alterations of nevoid character and organoid structure. They can be considered as congenital epidermal nevi. In many cases, including this one, there are various associated disorders especially of the nervous system, eyes, and skeleton. Both syndromes are cutaneous hamartomas which can be differentiated histologically but not by the anomalies accompanying them. Their dermatologic aspects are very similar. The histopathologic characteristics of the skin lesions of nevus unius lateris consist of hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, and epidermal papillomatosis. In Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus there are also alterations of the skin adnexa, namely the absence of hair follicles and the presence of numerous mature sebaceus and hyperplastic glands. In general, the presence of organoid nevus may be a sign of multiple ectodermal and mesodermal malformations. Both syndromes are often present in the same patient, as in the case described here, and their etiology is the same. It is based on an alteration in embryogenic development affecting primarily, though not exclusively, the formations of ectodermal origin. Thus Jadassohn's nevus sebaceus and nevus unius lateris are both forms of phacomatosis. Clinical cases have in common the cutaneous cited above, either in combination or singly. The other possible signs and symptoms are variable, depending on which stage of embryogenic development is affected. There may be defects in the structures of both ectodermal and mesodermal origin.", "PMID": 431172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_725", "title": "[Myocardial infarction due to buckshot lodged in the right coronary artery (author's transl)].", "content": "A rare case of myocardial infarction produced by a buckshot lodged in the right coronary artery is presented. It resulted from a shotgun blast aimed at the right side of the chest. The patient was admitted to an Intensive Care Unit in a state of shock 1 hour after the accident. The diagnosis was suspected from the first moment because of ECG disturbances and it was later confirmed by coronary angiography. Hemodynamic studies were carried out simultaneously. The patient also presented hemothorax requiring pleural drainage. X-rays revealed a lung contusion with an intraparenchymatous hematoma the whole length of the projectile pathway. During the clinical course a slight hemopericardium was demonstrated by echocardiography; it was originally suspected on the basis of the X-rays. Drainage was not necessary. The patient left the Intensive Care Unit 7 days after entry and was discharged from the Hospital 5 days later. His clinical and hemodynamic condition was good and ECG indicate cicatrization of the myocardial infarction of the diaphragmatic face. The diagnosis and treatment of open or closed traumas of the thorax with similar cardiac involvement in emergency conditions are discussed. The authors prefer not to operate immediately in these cases.", "contents": "[Myocardial infarction due to buckshot lodged in the right coronary artery (author's transl)]. A rare case of myocardial infarction produced by a buckshot lodged in the right coronary artery is presented. It resulted from a shotgun blast aimed at the right side of the chest. The patient was admitted to an Intensive Care Unit in a state of shock 1 hour after the accident. The diagnosis was suspected from the first moment because of ECG disturbances and it was later confirmed by coronary angiography. Hemodynamic studies were carried out simultaneously. The patient also presented hemothorax requiring pleural drainage. X-rays revealed a lung contusion with an intraparenchymatous hematoma the whole length of the projectile pathway. During the clinical course a slight hemopericardium was demonstrated by echocardiography; it was originally suspected on the basis of the X-rays. Drainage was not necessary. The patient left the Intensive Care Unit 7 days after entry and was discharged from the Hospital 5 days later. His clinical and hemodynamic condition was good and ECG indicate cicatrization of the myocardial infarction of the diaphragmatic face. The diagnosis and treatment of open or closed traumas of the thorax with similar cardiac involvement in emergency conditions are discussed. The authors prefer not to operate immediately in these cases.", "PMID": 431173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_726", "title": "[Medullary aplasia, sarcoidosis, and malacoplakia. A case report (author's transl)].", "content": "A 49-year-old man presented medullary aplasia, sarcoidosis, and malacoplakia as evidenced by biopsy. This is apparently the first case of this association to be described in the literature. Medullary aplasia is basically an aplasia of the erythroid series, though it may be a pure aplasia of the red cells alone. A histologic study of the left testicle removed because of an infectious orchiepidydimitis led to the discovery of malacoplakia. Skin nodules appeared later; two of them were extirpated and revealed the existence of sarcoidosis. There was no evidence of sarcoidosis at any other level. The immune mechanism involved in pure red cell aplasia with or without thymoma are well known. The association of malacoplakia and sarcoidosis, two similar conditions, is closely related to alterations in cell immunity. The possibility that common immune factors were present in this patient. After eliminating different therapeutic approaches used in other cases, an immunosuppresive therapy was applied.", "contents": "[Medullary aplasia, sarcoidosis, and malacoplakia. A case report (author's transl)]. A 49-year-old man presented medullary aplasia, sarcoidosis, and malacoplakia as evidenced by biopsy. This is apparently the first case of this association to be described in the literature. Medullary aplasia is basically an aplasia of the erythroid series, though it may be a pure aplasia of the red cells alone. A histologic study of the left testicle removed because of an infectious orchiepidydimitis led to the discovery of malacoplakia. Skin nodules appeared later; two of them were extirpated and revealed the existence of sarcoidosis. There was no evidence of sarcoidosis at any other level. The immune mechanism involved in pure red cell aplasia with or without thymoma are well known. The association of malacoplakia and sarcoidosis, two similar conditions, is closely related to alterations in cell immunity. The possibility that common immune factors were present in this patient. After eliminating different therapeutic approaches used in other cases, an immunosuppresive therapy was applied.", "PMID": 431174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_727", "title": "[Uremic pericarditis. Preliminary evaluation of treatment with indomethacin (author's transl)].", "content": "Numerous therapeutic schemes have been proposed for pericarditis, whether or not accompanied by pericardial effusion in patients with terminal chronic renal insufficiency of subjects on periodic hemodialysis. All of the authors agree that dialysis must be initiated, or at least must not be interrupted once it is begun. There is some disagreement over the system that should be used (peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis). Anti-inflammatory drugs have been used in association, since the condition is an inflammatory disease. Five episodes of pericarditis with daily hemodialysis and local heparine were treated, plus five other cases with the addition of 3 mg indomethacin/kg/day for 8 days. No secondary effects of indomethacin were reported. A definite reduction in the duration of pain, fever, pericardial rub, and increase in the size of the cardiac shadow was seen in the episodes treated with the association of indomethacin. This furthermore involved the number of days the patient was subjected to hemodialysis. Partial pericardiectomy was practiced on two patients not treated with indomethacin. The later course of the patients treated with indomethacin was more favorable since pericardial effusion did not lead to significant hemodynamic symptoms. There were no recurrences or other complications.", "contents": "[Uremic pericarditis. Preliminary evaluation of treatment with indomethacin (author's transl)]. Numerous therapeutic schemes have been proposed for pericarditis, whether or not accompanied by pericardial effusion in patients with terminal chronic renal insufficiency of subjects on periodic hemodialysis. All of the authors agree that dialysis must be initiated, or at least must not be interrupted once it is begun. There is some disagreement over the system that should be used (peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis). Anti-inflammatory drugs have been used in association, since the condition is an inflammatory disease. Five episodes of pericarditis with daily hemodialysis and local heparine were treated, plus five other cases with the addition of 3 mg indomethacin/kg/day for 8 days. No secondary effects of indomethacin were reported. A definite reduction in the duration of pain, fever, pericardial rub, and increase in the size of the cardiac shadow was seen in the episodes treated with the association of indomethacin. This furthermore involved the number of days the patient was subjected to hemodialysis. Partial pericardiectomy was practiced on two patients not treated with indomethacin. The later course of the patients treated with indomethacin was more favorable since pericardial effusion did not lead to significant hemodynamic symptoms. There were no recurrences or other complications.", "PMID": 431176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_728", "title": "[Neuropsychic manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (author's transl)].", "content": "Thirty-three cases of systemic lupus erythematosus in women are studied in retrospect. Eight patients (24 percent) presented a total of ten neuropsychiatric episodes that could be attributed to the underlying disease. The neuropsychiatric manifestation that was most often observed was cerebrovascular stroke (40 percent) followed by psychic disturbances and convulsions. A facial paralysis coinciding with an hypertensive crisis was noticed in one case. Another patient presented a peripheral sensitive neuropathy. Five episodes occurred prior to diagnosis or during the first year of the disease. In two patients the neuropsychiatric manifestations constituted the initial symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus. ECG proved to be one of the most valuable diagnostic tools among the complementary studies. It was altered in cases of organic pathology and normal when disturbances were of psychic origin. The C3 fraction of the serum complement revealed a definite difference between patients with and without neuropsychiatric manifestations. Concentrations were lower in persons which psychic disturbances than in patients without them. The pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus is discussed. They cannot be attributed exclusively to coagulation disturbances nor to treatment with corticosteroids. The immediate prognosis of neuropsychiatric episodes was good: there was partial or total recuperation in eight of the ten episodes. However, the long-term course of systemic lupus erythematosus shows that these manifestations represent an unfavourable prognostic factor in this disease.", "contents": "[Neuropsychic manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (author's transl)]. Thirty-three cases of systemic lupus erythematosus in women are studied in retrospect. Eight patients (24 percent) presented a total of ten neuropsychiatric episodes that could be attributed to the underlying disease. The neuropsychiatric manifestation that was most often observed was cerebrovascular stroke (40 percent) followed by psychic disturbances and convulsions. A facial paralysis coinciding with an hypertensive crisis was noticed in one case. Another patient presented a peripheral sensitive neuropathy. Five episodes occurred prior to diagnosis or during the first year of the disease. In two patients the neuropsychiatric manifestations constituted the initial symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus. ECG proved to be one of the most valuable diagnostic tools among the complementary studies. It was altered in cases of organic pathology and normal when disturbances were of psychic origin. The C3 fraction of the serum complement revealed a definite difference between patients with and without neuropsychiatric manifestations. Concentrations were lower in persons which psychic disturbances than in patients without them. The pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus is discussed. They cannot be attributed exclusively to coagulation disturbances nor to treatment with corticosteroids. The immediate prognosis of neuropsychiatric episodes was good: there was partial or total recuperation in eight of the ten episodes. However, the long-term course of systemic lupus erythematosus shows that these manifestations represent an unfavourable prognostic factor in this disease.", "PMID": 431177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_729", "title": "[Sensivity of Mycobacterium kansaii and Mycobacterium marinum to different antituberculous drugs (author's transl)].", "content": "Mycobacteriosis includes clinical manifestations caused by especies of the genus Mycobacterium other than M. tuberculosis and M. bovis. Therapy for these conditions has not been clearly sistematized as it has for tuberculosis, particularly because of the natural resistance that the etiologic agents present to a large number of antituberculous drugs. The sensitivity of M. kansasii and M. marinum to eleven tuberculostatic agents was studied in order to determine which one were best suited for treatment of cases caused by these species. The drugs showing the strongest action against M. kansasii were rifampin, cycloserine, streptomycin, and prothionamide. M. marinum was even more sensitive except to isoniazid, which is ineffective. As a general rule, especially if the sensitivity of the isolated strain is unknown drugs with little or no action on M. kansasii and M. marinum should not be used. Particularly the use of isoniazid and PAS should be avoided.", "contents": "[Sensivity of Mycobacterium kansaii and Mycobacterium marinum to different antituberculous drugs (author's transl)]. Mycobacteriosis includes clinical manifestations caused by especies of the genus Mycobacterium other than M. tuberculosis and M. bovis. Therapy for these conditions has not been clearly sistematized as it has for tuberculosis, particularly because of the natural resistance that the etiologic agents present to a large number of antituberculous drugs. The sensitivity of M. kansasii and M. marinum to eleven tuberculostatic agents was studied in order to determine which one were best suited for treatment of cases caused by these species. The drugs showing the strongest action against M. kansasii were rifampin, cycloserine, streptomycin, and prothionamide. M. marinum was even more sensitive except to isoniazid, which is ineffective. As a general rule, especially if the sensitivity of the isolated strain is unknown drugs with little or no action on M. kansasii and M. marinum should not be used. Particularly the use of isoniazid and PAS should be avoided.", "PMID": 431178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_730", "title": "[Isolated rheumatic tricuspid insufficiency (author's transl)].", "content": "Insufficiency on the tricuspid valve alone due to cardioarticular rheumatism is a rare condition. A 12-year-old boy had had six episodes of rheumatic fever over the previous 5 years. The only damage done to the heart was insufficiency of the tricuspid valve; none of the other valves were affected. The phonocardiographic response to the amyl nitrate and methoxamine tests as well as the correct evaluation of the jugular phlebogram confirmed the diagnosis of this valve pathology. The study of this heart condition was completed with the diagnosis of rheumatic fever (Jones' criteria, modified) and an angiohemodynamic evaluation of the patient (which must include left and right ventriculography using a Bourassa catheter on the right). This pathology is extremely rare and we have found no reference to it in the literature in this country.", "contents": "[Isolated rheumatic tricuspid insufficiency (author's transl)]. Insufficiency on the tricuspid valve alone due to cardioarticular rheumatism is a rare condition. A 12-year-old boy had had six episodes of rheumatic fever over the previous 5 years. The only damage done to the heart was insufficiency of the tricuspid valve; none of the other valves were affected. The phonocardiographic response to the amyl nitrate and methoxamine tests as well as the correct evaluation of the jugular phlebogram confirmed the diagnosis of this valve pathology. The study of this heart condition was completed with the diagnosis of rheumatic fever (Jones' criteria, modified) and an angiohemodynamic evaluation of the patient (which must include left and right ventriculography using a Bourassa catheter on the right). This pathology is extremely rare and we have found no reference to it in the literature in this country.", "PMID": 431179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_731", "title": "[Hematologic aspects of alcoholism (author's transl)].", "content": "Alcohol causes different hematologic alterations on each of the three bone marrow cellular series. Its effect on the red series leads to the appearance of megaloblastic disturbances, erythroblastic vacuolization, iron metabolism abnormalities, and hemolytic syndromes. Megaloblastic disturbances may arise as a consequence of folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency or of a direct toxic effect of ethanol on the erythroblasts. Iron metabolism alterations include reversible sideroblastic anemia, and hemosiderosis. The three hemolytic syndromes related to the consumption of ethanol are: acanthocytosis, stomatocytosis, and Zieve's syndrome. Alcohol induces leukopenia and functional deffects of the leukocytes; these facts explain the frequent susceptibility of chronic alcoholics to infection. Ethanol may act upon the megakaryocytic series to produce reversible thrombopenia and various alterations in platelet function. Thus alcohol exerts toxic effects on bone marrow, which interfere with the proliferation, maturation, release and survival of the three cellular series, either directly or by means of complex mechanisms related to the metabolism of folic acid, vitamin B12, pyridoxine, or iron. Alcoholism should therefore be considered as a possible cause whenever an obscure hematological condition comes under scrutiny.", "contents": "[Hematologic aspects of alcoholism (author's transl)]. Alcohol causes different hematologic alterations on each of the three bone marrow cellular series. Its effect on the red series leads to the appearance of megaloblastic disturbances, erythroblastic vacuolization, iron metabolism abnormalities, and hemolytic syndromes. Megaloblastic disturbances may arise as a consequence of folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency or of a direct toxic effect of ethanol on the erythroblasts. Iron metabolism alterations include reversible sideroblastic anemia, and hemosiderosis. The three hemolytic syndromes related to the consumption of ethanol are: acanthocytosis, stomatocytosis, and Zieve's syndrome. Alcohol induces leukopenia and functional deffects of the leukocytes; these facts explain the frequent susceptibility of chronic alcoholics to infection. Ethanol may act upon the megakaryocytic series to produce reversible thrombopenia and various alterations in platelet function. Thus alcohol exerts toxic effects on bone marrow, which interfere with the proliferation, maturation, release and survival of the three cellular series, either directly or by means of complex mechanisms related to the metabolism of folic acid, vitamin B12, pyridoxine, or iron. Alcoholism should therefore be considered as a possible cause whenever an obscure hematological condition comes under scrutiny.", "PMID": 431180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_732", "title": "[Hepatic involvement in boutonneuse fever (author's transl)].", "content": "Boutonneuse fever is a rickettsioses which is endemic in the Mediterranean countries. Since 1972 we have had the chance to study eight observations os this disease (6 in the last year) and our attention has been drawn by the constant hepatic involvement. This was biological in all cases and histopathologic in the five patients submitted to a liver biopsy. Functional liver tests showed an elevation of SGOT and SGPT in six patients, as well as of the alkaline phosphatase and/or gamma-GT in five. No signs of hepatocellular insufficiency were detected and posterior controls demonstrated a complete normalization of the analytical parameters. As regards the histopathologic findings the most important was the fibrous enlargement of the porta spaces with slight infiltration by round cells, hyperplasia of the Kupffer's cells, and accumulations of histiocytes and lymphocytes. In no patient did we observed epithelioid granulomas. The authors conclude that the hepatic involvement in boutonneuse fever is benign but very constant, which means that it ought to be known about and that it has no defined histopathologic patterns.", "contents": "[Hepatic involvement in boutonneuse fever (author's transl)]. Boutonneuse fever is a rickettsioses which is endemic in the Mediterranean countries. Since 1972 we have had the chance to study eight observations os this disease (6 in the last year) and our attention has been drawn by the constant hepatic involvement. This was biological in all cases and histopathologic in the five patients submitted to a liver biopsy. Functional liver tests showed an elevation of SGOT and SGPT in six patients, as well as of the alkaline phosphatase and/or gamma-GT in five. No signs of hepatocellular insufficiency were detected and posterior controls demonstrated a complete normalization of the analytical parameters. As regards the histopathologic findings the most important was the fibrous enlargement of the porta spaces with slight infiltration by round cells, hyperplasia of the Kupffer's cells, and accumulations of histiocytes and lymphocytes. In no patient did we observed epithelioid granulomas. The authors conclude that the hepatic involvement in boutonneuse fever is benign but very constant, which means that it ought to be known about and that it has no defined histopathologic patterns.", "PMID": 431183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_733", "title": "[Malignant hypereosinophilic syndrome. Report of an exceptional case (author's transl)].", "content": "The case of a 43-year-old man with a highly malignant hypereosinophilic syndrome is reported. The condition is classified as such according to Hardy and Anderson's criteria, accepted by many other authors. Other diseases of known etiology which may present high levels of eosinophils in the peripheral blood, such as parasitosis, allergies, neoplasias, collagenosis, etc., were discounted beforehand. The difficulties in distinguishing between these diseases are discussed; they are often accompanied by clinical manifestations which also arise in very different conditions including eosinophilic leukemia, Engfeldt and Zetterstr\u00f6m's eosinophilic collagenosis, L\u00f6ffler's fibroplastic endocarditis, etc. A particularly striking feature of this condition is the formation of large tumor masses of mature eosinophils. They begin in various bones, which they destroy almost completely, and invade the surrounding tissues, destroying them as well. These tumors act similarly to malignant eosinophilic myelocytomas, a fact which has not been reported previously in the literature as far as we know. Although the eosinophils act as though they were neoplastic, they maintain the characteristics of mature cells, both cytomorphologically and ultrastructurally as well as cytochemically (consistently chloroacetate esterase negative). The tendency to diagnose eosinophilic leukemia solely on the basis of the malignancy of the condition and a tissue infiltration of eosinophils without determining the existence of cytologic and/or cytochemical anomalies of the cells showing them to be leukemic is discussed. The authors were unable to find any reports in the literature in which the eosinophils were presented with unmistakeably blastic cellular characteristics. Various nosologic considerations are offered.", "contents": "[Malignant hypereosinophilic syndrome. Report of an exceptional case (author's transl)]. The case of a 43-year-old man with a highly malignant hypereosinophilic syndrome is reported. The condition is classified as such according to Hardy and Anderson's criteria, accepted by many other authors. Other diseases of known etiology which may present high levels of eosinophils in the peripheral blood, such as parasitosis, allergies, neoplasias, collagenosis, etc., were discounted beforehand. The difficulties in distinguishing between these diseases are discussed; they are often accompanied by clinical manifestations which also arise in very different conditions including eosinophilic leukemia, Engfeldt and Zetterstr\u00f6m's eosinophilic collagenosis, L\u00f6ffler's fibroplastic endocarditis, etc. A particularly striking feature of this condition is the formation of large tumor masses of mature eosinophils. They begin in various bones, which they destroy almost completely, and invade the surrounding tissues, destroying them as well. These tumors act similarly to malignant eosinophilic myelocytomas, a fact which has not been reported previously in the literature as far as we know. Although the eosinophils act as though they were neoplastic, they maintain the characteristics of mature cells, both cytomorphologically and ultrastructurally as well as cytochemically (consistently chloroacetate esterase negative). The tendency to diagnose eosinophilic leukemia solely on the basis of the malignancy of the condition and a tissue infiltration of eosinophils without determining the existence of cytologic and/or cytochemical anomalies of the cells showing them to be leukemic is discussed. The authors were unable to find any reports in the literature in which the eosinophils were presented with unmistakeably blastic cellular characteristics. Various nosologic considerations are offered.", "PMID": 431184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_734", "title": "[Heart function and phonomechanocardiography (author's transl)].", "content": "The phonomechanocardiographic parameters most closely associated with heart failure are reviewed and a critical judgement is made of the method. The conclusion is drawn that phonomechanocardiographic measurements help to establish approximate limits of functional normality in cases of moderate abnormality. When acute phonomechanocardiographic alterations appear following infection or toxic heart disease or the use of potentially cardiotoxic drugs, the diagnosis of miocarditis can be made on an objective basis. To control the clinical course of heart failure the following parameters are useful: variations in the period of expulsion, \"a\" and \"telediastolic\" indices of the apexcardiogram, and the expulsion period/pre-expulsion period and expulsion period/systolic isovolumetric phase coefficients. Although phonomechancardiography lacks exact biological precision, it represents a rational and no invasive method for estimating heart function. It provides a means for recognizing diverse functional anomalies at their onset and for controlling their development. It thus helps in choosing adequate preventive and therapeutic measures to keep an early functional miocardial disease from becoming a serious case of heart failure.", "contents": "[Heart function and phonomechanocardiography (author's transl)]. The phonomechanocardiographic parameters most closely associated with heart failure are reviewed and a critical judgement is made of the method. The conclusion is drawn that phonomechanocardiographic measurements help to establish approximate limits of functional normality in cases of moderate abnormality. When acute phonomechanocardiographic alterations appear following infection or toxic heart disease or the use of potentially cardiotoxic drugs, the diagnosis of miocarditis can be made on an objective basis. To control the clinical course of heart failure the following parameters are useful: variations in the period of expulsion, \"a\" and \"telediastolic\" indices of the apexcardiogram, and the expulsion period/pre-expulsion period and expulsion period/systolic isovolumetric phase coefficients. Although phonomechancardiography lacks exact biological precision, it represents a rational and no invasive method for estimating heart function. It provides a means for recognizing diverse functional anomalies at their onset and for controlling their development. It thus helps in choosing adequate preventive and therapeutic measures to keep an early functional miocardial disease from becoming a serious case of heart failure.", "PMID": 431185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_735", "title": "[Kinetics of beta-methyl-digoxin in different degrees of renal function (author's transl)].", "content": "Creatinine clearance was evaluated in individuals with varying degrees of renal function following the administration of beta-methyl-digoxin. From the results of the experiment it can be deduced that significantly increased hematic values and renal clearance values definitely lower than normal appear only in patients of a creatinine clearance of less than 50 ml/min. Furthermore, a positive correlation between creatinine clearance values and beta-methyl-digoxin levels was noticed. This correlation was in proportion to the amount of serum albumin. The degree of distribution of free digitalis and digitalis bound to proteins within the vascular system played an important role in the complex kinetics of digoxin. This relationship is suggested as an indirect index of the proportions of free beta-methyl-digoxin and of beta-methyl-digoxin bound to plasma proteins.", "contents": "[Kinetics of beta-methyl-digoxin in different degrees of renal function (author's transl)]. Creatinine clearance was evaluated in individuals with varying degrees of renal function following the administration of beta-methyl-digoxin. From the results of the experiment it can be deduced that significantly increased hematic values and renal clearance values definitely lower than normal appear only in patients of a creatinine clearance of less than 50 ml/min. Furthermore, a positive correlation between creatinine clearance values and beta-methyl-digoxin levels was noticed. This correlation was in proportion to the amount of serum albumin. The degree of distribution of free digitalis and digitalis bound to proteins within the vascular system played an important role in the complex kinetics of digoxin. This relationship is suggested as an indirect index of the proportions of free beta-methyl-digoxin and of beta-methyl-digoxin bound to plasma proteins.", "PMID": 431186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_736", "title": "Hypertensive emergencies.", "content": "The clinical syndrome of accelerated hypertension is a relatively rare complication of hypertensive disease. The syndrome is recognized by high blood pressures, progressive neurologic and visual symptoms, acute renal damage, cardiac failure, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. When diagnosed, it must be recognized as an acute medical emergency. The patient should be admitted to an intensive care unit, arterial lines should be placed, and the blood pressure lowered as soon as possible. Once blood pressure has been controlled, oral medications should be begun. Long-term results in the treatment of hypertensive emergencies are gratifying. It is anticipated that with more experience gained in the use of medications in this situation, an even better prognosis will be achieved.", "contents": "Hypertensive emergencies. The clinical syndrome of accelerated hypertension is a relatively rare complication of hypertensive disease. The syndrome is recognized by high blood pressures, progressive neurologic and visual symptoms, acute renal damage, cardiac failure, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. When diagnosed, it must be recognized as an acute medical emergency. The patient should be admitted to an intensive care unit, arterial lines should be placed, and the blood pressure lowered as soon as possible. Once blood pressure has been controlled, oral medications should be begun. Long-term results in the treatment of hypertensive emergencies are gratifying. It is anticipated that with more experience gained in the use of medications in this situation, an even better prognosis will be achieved.", "PMID": 431188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_737", "title": "Dissection of the aorta.", "content": "Our approach to management, both initial and definitive, is summarized in Table 2. Patients with proximal dissection require surgical intervention after medical stabilization, unless prior debilitating illness precludes general anesthesia or prolonged vascular surgery. If myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular accidents has complicated the dissection, results are extremely poor, regardless of therapy. Patients with distal dissection have a good prognosis with medical therapy alone, unless aortic rupture or impending rupture, hematoma progression despite a maximal drug program, vital organ compromise, or inability to control pain or blood pressure medically supervene. Dissecting aneurysm of the aorta, while potentially a promptly fatal event, is amenable to aggressive therapy provided that one is alert to the possibility of this disease. Despite all technical advances, the single most important factor in making the diagnosis of dissecting aortic aneurysm is a strong index of suspicion on the part of the physician.", "contents": "Dissection of the aorta. Our approach to management, both initial and definitive, is summarized in Table 2. Patients with proximal dissection require surgical intervention after medical stabilization, unless prior debilitating illness precludes general anesthesia or prolonged vascular surgery. If myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular accidents has complicated the dissection, results are extremely poor, regardless of therapy. Patients with distal dissection have a good prognosis with medical therapy alone, unless aortic rupture or impending rupture, hematoma progression despite a maximal drug program, vital organ compromise, or inability to control pain or blood pressure medically supervene. Dissecting aneurysm of the aorta, while potentially a promptly fatal event, is amenable to aggressive therapy provided that one is alert to the possibility of this disease. Despite all technical advances, the single most important factor in making the diagnosis of dissecting aortic aneurysm is a strong index of suspicion on the part of the physician.", "PMID": 431189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_738", "title": "[Gas gangrene (author's transl)].", "content": "Gas gangrene which is due to clostridial contamination of a wound is a rare disease. The clinical picture is quite characteristic. Untreated the disease has a near 100% mortality for which reason treatment should be started as early as possible. Surgical debridement remains the therapeutic cornerstone. Administration of antibiotics is recommended and the efficacy of treatment with hyperbaric oxygen is beyond doubt. The only proven prophylactic means consists in the proper surgical management of wounds.", "contents": "[Gas gangrene (author's transl)]. Gas gangrene which is due to clostridial contamination of a wound is a rare disease. The clinical picture is quite characteristic. Untreated the disease has a near 100% mortality for which reason treatment should be started as early as possible. Surgical debridement remains the therapeutic cornerstone. Administration of antibiotics is recommended and the efficacy of treatment with hyperbaric oxygen is beyond doubt. The only proven prophylactic means consists in the proper surgical management of wounds.", "PMID": 431223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_739", "title": "[An expanded basic documentation of treatment and follow-up for operated cancer patients (author's transl)].", "content": "Presented is a program of recording all facts in the fate of a cancer patient relevant for therapy and prognosis in a manner suitable for EDP. Beside optimal medical treatment it is the substance of the documentation system to produce the complete pathogram of all registered cancer patients. From the day of establishment of the diagnosis and the begin of clinical treatment in the Evgl. Krankenhaus up to the following 5 years the cancer patient runs through a strongly termed and tumor specific follow-up. All informations and facts are registered in a codable medical record, a basic documentation for tumor patients, a follow-up and a final questionaire. In the so coded pathogram of the cancer patient we only use international binding classifications and coding systems. The pathogram is the result of a longer development and testing time in the surgical department of a smaller hospital. The presented principles of documentation include all basis necessary for the establishment of a clinical cancer registry and documentation follow-up.", "contents": "[An expanded basic documentation of treatment and follow-up for operated cancer patients (author's transl)]. Presented is a program of recording all facts in the fate of a cancer patient relevant for therapy and prognosis in a manner suitable for EDP. Beside optimal medical treatment it is the substance of the documentation system to produce the complete pathogram of all registered cancer patients. From the day of establishment of the diagnosis and the begin of clinical treatment in the Evgl. Krankenhaus up to the following 5 years the cancer patient runs through a strongly termed and tumor specific follow-up. All informations and facts are registered in a codable medical record, a basic documentation for tumor patients, a follow-up and a final questionaire. In the so coded pathogram of the cancer patient we only use international binding classifications and coding systems. The pathogram is the result of a longer development and testing time in the surgical department of a smaller hospital. The presented principles of documentation include all basis necessary for the establishment of a clinical cancer registry and documentation follow-up.", "PMID": 431224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_740", "title": "[Biopsy of para-aortic lymphnodes in patients with malignant lymphomas (author's transl)].", "content": "In treatment of malignant lymphomas exploratory laparotomy with splenectomy, liver and lymphnodes biopsy is necessary in order to individualize appropriate management. The surgeon must make maximal effort to obtain lymphnodes for histological examination. The surgical anatomy of the retroperitoneum in space of abdominal aorta and the biopsy procedure of paraaortic lymphnodes were described. The literature was reviewed.", "contents": "[Biopsy of para-aortic lymphnodes in patients with malignant lymphomas (author's transl)]. In treatment of malignant lymphomas exploratory laparotomy with splenectomy, liver and lymphnodes biopsy is necessary in order to individualize appropriate management. The surgeon must make maximal effort to obtain lymphnodes for histological examination. The surgical anatomy of the retroperitoneum in space of abdominal aorta and the biopsy procedure of paraaortic lymphnodes were described. The literature was reviewed.", "PMID": 431225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_741", "title": "[Pressure-diameter-relationship of the papilla duodeni. An experimental study (author's transl)].", "content": "While extending the papilla duodeni of dogs by probes of increasing diameter, mural pressure was measured as an equilibration of the hydrostatic pressure within the probes along a distance of 12 mm. Pressure-diameter-curves at the duodenal end of the papilla show the mural pressure promptly increasing to a maximum when partially extended, then declining and rising again when extended extremely. Proximal to the papillary end the mural pressure first declines and then continuously increases with larger probe diameters. The pressure-diameter-curve of the papillary end resembles the length-tension-diagram of isolated smooth muscle in vitro, and represents the normal physiological action of the sphincter zone.", "contents": "[Pressure-diameter-relationship of the papilla duodeni. An experimental study (author's transl)]. While extending the papilla duodeni of dogs by probes of increasing diameter, mural pressure was measured as an equilibration of the hydrostatic pressure within the probes along a distance of 12 mm. Pressure-diameter-curves at the duodenal end of the papilla show the mural pressure promptly increasing to a maximum when partially extended, then declining and rising again when extended extremely. Proximal to the papillary end the mural pressure first declines and then continuously increases with larger probe diameters. The pressure-diameter-curve of the papillary end resembles the length-tension-diagram of isolated smooth muscle in vitro, and represents the normal physiological action of the sphincter zone.", "PMID": 431226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_742", "title": "[Intense segmentary subserosis lipomatosis of the small bowel (author's transl)].", "content": "Report of an operated case with an intense segmentary subserosis lipomatosis of the ileum, the clinical and anatomical symptoms of this very seldom disease described.", "contents": "[Intense segmentary subserosis lipomatosis of the small bowel (author's transl)]. Report of an operated case with an intense segmentary subserosis lipomatosis of the ileum, the clinical and anatomical symptoms of this very seldom disease described.", "PMID": 431227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_743", "title": "[On the role of myotomy in the treatment of diverticular disease (author's transl)].", "content": "Spontaneous motor action of fresly prepared circular and longitudinal muscle strips were examined in two separated trials. Bowel musculature of diverticular patients were compared with those of normal subjects. Finally all explantations were examined histologically. 1. There was no difference in electrical activity and tension development regarding circular muscle strips of patients suffering from D.D. and those of normal subjects. 2. The longitudinal muscles show however significant differences in contrast to normal subjects; to sum up D.D. presents us a spastic and contracted taenia. 3. The histological investigations did not explain the different electromechanical results. There were however remarcable ribbons only in the longitudinal muscle of D.D.--known from myoma uteri. The results of the electrophysiological analysis have importance for our surgical concept in the treatment of peridiverticulitis. They justify the horizontal myotomy in the left, functionally disturbed colon descendens additional to the resection as an preventive procedure.", "contents": "[On the role of myotomy in the treatment of diverticular disease (author's transl)]. Spontaneous motor action of fresly prepared circular and longitudinal muscle strips were examined in two separated trials. Bowel musculature of diverticular patients were compared with those of normal subjects. Finally all explantations were examined histologically. 1. There was no difference in electrical activity and tension development regarding circular muscle strips of patients suffering from D.D. and those of normal subjects. 2. The longitudinal muscles show however significant differences in contrast to normal subjects; to sum up D.D. presents us a spastic and contracted taenia. 3. The histological investigations did not explain the different electromechanical results. There were however remarcable ribbons only in the longitudinal muscle of D.D.--known from myoma uteri. The results of the electrophysiological analysis have importance for our surgical concept in the treatment of peridiverticulitis. They justify the horizontal myotomy in the left, functionally disturbed colon descendens additional to the resection as an preventive procedure.", "PMID": 431228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_744", "title": "[Reflux and reflux disease following gastric resection (author's transl)].", "content": "Intragastric concentrations of lysolecithin and bile acids were determined in 112 patients with different types of gastrectomy for peptic ulcer (Billroth I and Billroth II). These values were correlated with intragastric pH, bacterial contamination, gastric mucosal changes and Visick grading. A maximal amount of duodenogastric reflux was found in retrocolic gastrojejunostomy (Billroth II). Smaller, but still highly pathological values were observed in the antecolic gastrojejunostomy with Braun enteroanastomosis as well as in different types of gastroduodenostomy (Billroth I). 70% of the operated stomachs were bacterially contaminated. There was a good correlation between amount of reflux, bacterial contamination and pH-value. Above pH 6 no stomach was sterile, the lysolecithin-concentration increased more than proportional. Gastric mucosal changes correlated closely with the intragastric lysolecithin concentration and the bacterial contamination. There was no correlation between amount of reflux and Visick-grading, no complaints were found in some cases with extreme reflux values as vice versa. The postoperative alkaline reflux gastritis is described, the consequences including the carcinoma of the gastric stump are mentioned. The principles of ulcer surgery are analysed under these aspects.", "contents": "[Reflux and reflux disease following gastric resection (author's transl)]. Intragastric concentrations of lysolecithin and bile acids were determined in 112 patients with different types of gastrectomy for peptic ulcer (Billroth I and Billroth II). These values were correlated with intragastric pH, bacterial contamination, gastric mucosal changes and Visick grading. A maximal amount of duodenogastric reflux was found in retrocolic gastrojejunostomy (Billroth II). Smaller, but still highly pathological values were observed in the antecolic gastrojejunostomy with Braun enteroanastomosis as well as in different types of gastroduodenostomy (Billroth I). 70% of the operated stomachs were bacterially contaminated. There was a good correlation between amount of reflux, bacterial contamination and pH-value. Above pH 6 no stomach was sterile, the lysolecithin-concentration increased more than proportional. Gastric mucosal changes correlated closely with the intragastric lysolecithin concentration and the bacterial contamination. There was no correlation between amount of reflux and Visick-grading, no complaints were found in some cases with extreme reflux values as vice versa. The postoperative alkaline reflux gastritis is described, the consequences including the carcinoma of the gastric stump are mentioned. The principles of ulcer surgery are analysed under these aspects.", "PMID": 431229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_745", "title": "[Actual diagnostic problems in facial nerve palsy (author's transl)].", "content": "From the great number of diagnostic attempts in facial nerve palsy the main procedures are summerized in this article with an evaluation of their significance. The demonstrated limitations of their clinical relevance should lead to a careful assessment of their results. However, a clinically worthwhile concept for functional and topographical diagnoses can be proposed. In each case of facial nerve palsy it is necessary to exclude all other etiological factors before the diagnose of Bell's palsy is made. The importance of early diagnose is stressed.", "contents": "[Actual diagnostic problems in facial nerve palsy (author's transl)]. From the great number of diagnostic attempts in facial nerve palsy the main procedures are summerized in this article with an evaluation of their significance. The demonstrated limitations of their clinical relevance should lead to a careful assessment of their results. However, a clinically worthwhile concept for functional and topographical diagnoses can be proposed. In each case of facial nerve palsy it is necessary to exclude all other etiological factors before the diagnose of Bell's palsy is made. The importance of early diagnose is stressed.", "PMID": 431231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_746", "title": "[Trauma of the facial nerve at the geniculate ganglion (author's transl)].", "content": "Fractures of the pyramid, longitudinal fractures in the majority of cases, lead to a damage of the facial nerve in the surrounding of the geniculate ganglion. This area has to be controlled surgically when a facial nerve paralysis occurs after a head injury.", "contents": "[Trauma of the facial nerve at the geniculate ganglion (author's transl)]. Fractures of the pyramid, longitudinal fractures in the majority of cases, lead to a damage of the facial nerve in the surrounding of the geniculate ganglion. This area has to be controlled surgically when a facial nerve paralysis occurs after a head injury.", "PMID": 431232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_747", "title": "[Surgical treatment of early facial palsies in cases of longitudinal fractures of the temporal bone (author's transl)].", "content": "Longitudinal fractures of the temporal bone are complicated by facial palsies in 10--25% According to the results of Fisch the lesions of the facial nerve are ever situated at the labyrinthine segment of the nerve. The most frequent lesion is the impression of bone fragments in the Fallopian canal. Clinical controls of the progredience of the palsy and tomographies are necessary. The only successful therapy in cases of early facial palsies due to longitudinal temporal bone fractures is the total decompression of the facial nerve with the combinated transmastoid approach and middle fossa approach.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of early facial palsies in cases of longitudinal fractures of the temporal bone (author's transl)]. Longitudinal fractures of the temporal bone are complicated by facial palsies in 10--25% According to the results of Fisch the lesions of the facial nerve are ever situated at the labyrinthine segment of the nerve. The most frequent lesion is the impression of bone fragments in the Fallopian canal. Clinical controls of the progredience of the palsy and tomographies are necessary. The only successful therapy in cases of early facial palsies due to longitudinal temporal bone fractures is the total decompression of the facial nerve with the combinated transmastoid approach and middle fossa approach.", "PMID": 431233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_748", "title": "[A method of suture-free anastomosis of nerve transplantation is being reported, using facial nerve as the example (author's transl)].", "content": "After microsurgery preparation, the endings of the nerve trunk, which have been freed from epineurium, are approxiamated on top of a gelatin platelet (gel foam) which has been soaked in a nutrient solution. The gelatin platet is then formed like a tube and wrapped around the ends of the anastomosis. Using this procedure, suture-induced reactions in the vicinity of the anastomosis are prevented. The connection is sufficiently firm so as to withstand tension incurred in chewing and in movement of the head. Additionally, the gelatin coating prevents early onset of fibrosis, which as a process is normally induced by the surrounding tissues onto transplants. Simultaneously, nutrition of the transplant is guaranteed during the first post-operative days. In all cases operated hitherto, good to satisfactory return of function has been observed. The earliest onset of function-return was observed at four (4) months after the operation and the latest completion occurred at eighteen (18) months. Thus far, no negative results have been observed using this method.", "contents": "[A method of suture-free anastomosis of nerve transplantation is being reported, using facial nerve as the example (author's transl)]. After microsurgery preparation, the endings of the nerve trunk, which have been freed from epineurium, are approxiamated on top of a gelatin platelet (gel foam) which has been soaked in a nutrient solution. The gelatin platet is then formed like a tube and wrapped around the ends of the anastomosis. Using this procedure, suture-induced reactions in the vicinity of the anastomosis are prevented. The connection is sufficiently firm so as to withstand tension incurred in chewing and in movement of the head. Additionally, the gelatin coating prevents early onset of fibrosis, which as a process is normally induced by the surrounding tissues onto transplants. Simultaneously, nutrition of the transplant is guaranteed during the first post-operative days. In all cases operated hitherto, good to satisfactory return of function has been observed. The earliest onset of function-return was observed at four (4) months after the operation and the latest completion occurred at eighteen (18) months. Thus far, no negative results have been observed using this method.", "PMID": 431234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_749", "title": "[Anaesthesiological and ENT surgical aspects in long operations (author's transl)].", "content": "In ENT surgery due to the differential anatomy of the operation area, radical tumour surgery, necessary plastic surgery and covering of resulting defects, plus efforts in maintenance and reconstruction of important functions the resulting operations are frequently lengthy. In 27 patients whose operations required longer as 10 hours the problems of anaesthesia and operation were analysed and discussion from various angles. With close teamwork between surgeon and anaestheist in the planning and carrying out of such procedures and in the postoperative care it is possible to eliminate higher risks due to the prolonged operation time. The perioperative mortality rate within a time period of 4 weeks was in our case 0%.", "contents": "[Anaesthesiological and ENT surgical aspects in long operations (author's transl)]. In ENT surgery due to the differential anatomy of the operation area, radical tumour surgery, necessary plastic surgery and covering of resulting defects, plus efforts in maintenance and reconstruction of important functions the resulting operations are frequently lengthy. In 27 patients whose operations required longer as 10 hours the problems of anaesthesia and operation were analysed and discussion from various angles. With close teamwork between surgeon and anaestheist in the planning and carrying out of such procedures and in the postoperative care it is possible to eliminate higher risks due to the prolonged operation time. The perioperative mortality rate within a time period of 4 weeks was in our case 0%.", "PMID": 431235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_750", "title": "[The use of a computer in the ENT-office (author's transl)].", "content": "A computer was installed into several offices in order to find an adaptable system for doctors of all specialties and perhaps also clinics and hospitals. The electronic assistant is very useful in the administration especially by filling out formes and for printing diagnoses and code numbers. The advantages of the electronic device, which is expandable, are compaired with the manual system that has been used so far.", "contents": "[The use of a computer in the ENT-office (author's transl)]. A computer was installed into several offices in order to find an adaptable system for doctors of all specialties and perhaps also clinics and hospitals. The electronic assistant is very useful in the administration especially by filling out formes and for printing diagnoses and code numbers. The advantages of the electronic device, which is expandable, are compaired with the manual system that has been used so far.", "PMID": 431236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_751", "title": "[Early diagnosis of chordoma by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (author's transl)].", "content": "Successful surgical therapy or radiation of chordoma depends on an early morphologic diagnosis. Two cases of chordoma in the sphenooccipital region are reported, in which fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed. This method is controlled by X-ray. For gaining sufficient material it is superior to surgical biopsy. The cytomorphology of chordoma and its differential diagnosis are discussed.", "contents": "[Early diagnosis of chordoma by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (author's transl)]. Successful surgical therapy or radiation of chordoma depends on an early morphologic diagnosis. Two cases of chordoma in the sphenooccipital region are reported, in which fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed. This method is controlled by X-ray. For gaining sufficient material it is superior to surgical biopsy. The cytomorphology of chordoma and its differential diagnosis are discussed.", "PMID": 431238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_752", "title": "[Neurosurgical aspects of the treatment of acoustic neurinoma with special consideration of the facial nerve (author's transl)].", "content": "The decisive progress in the field of surgical treatment of acoustic neurinomas has occured after the introduction of the operating microscope. This is a survey of the microsurgical treatment of cerebellopontine angle tumors with special emphasis of the facial nerve and demonstration of individual cases. Moreover, the technique of the dissection and preservation of the continuity of the facial nerve during removal of a tumor is analysed. The possibilities of reconstructive surgery of an end-to-end suture or nerve graft in case of facial nerve lesions after removal of a tumor are discussed.", "contents": "[Neurosurgical aspects of the treatment of acoustic neurinoma with special consideration of the facial nerve (author's transl)]. The decisive progress in the field of surgical treatment of acoustic neurinomas has occured after the introduction of the operating microscope. This is a survey of the microsurgical treatment of cerebellopontine angle tumors with special emphasis of the facial nerve and demonstration of individual cases. Moreover, the technique of the dissection and preservation of the continuity of the facial nerve during removal of a tumor is analysed. The possibilities of reconstructive surgery of an end-to-end suture or nerve graft in case of facial nerve lesions after removal of a tumor are discussed.", "PMID": 431239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_753", "title": "Radioactive suture in the treatment of head an neck cancer.", "content": "I-125 seeds in Vicryl suture have been used as a radioactive suture in 24 cases of advanced malignancy of the head and neck. Twelve cases had metastatic carcinoma attached to the internal or common carotid artery. The goal was to excise surgically as much tumor as possible, then implant any residual tumor with this radioactive suture which remains as a permanent implant (half-life of 60 days). This preliminary study shows that use of I-125 impregnated Vicryl suture in this manner appears to produce improved long-term palliation and may increase local cure rates.", "contents": "Radioactive suture in the treatment of head an neck cancer. I-125 seeds in Vicryl suture have been used as a radioactive suture in 24 cases of advanced malignancy of the head and neck. Twelve cases had metastatic carcinoma attached to the internal or common carotid artery. The goal was to excise surgically as much tumor as possible, then implant any residual tumor with this radioactive suture which remains as a permanent implant (half-life of 60 days). This preliminary study shows that use of I-125 impregnated Vicryl suture in this manner appears to produce improved long-term palliation and may increase local cure rates.", "PMID": 431240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_754", "title": "Upper airway obstruction due to coccidioidomycosis.", "content": "The inpatient experience regarding coccidioidomycosis of head and neck was reviewed at the University of California Medical Center, San Francisco and affiliated hospitals. Four cases in which upper airway obstruction required otolaryngological consultation and intervention are reviewed in detail. History, epidemiology and pathophysiology of coccidioidomycosis involving upper airway are discussed. Suggestions for diagnosis and management are outlined.", "contents": "Upper airway obstruction due to coccidioidomycosis. The inpatient experience regarding coccidioidomycosis of head and neck was reviewed at the University of California Medical Center, San Francisco and affiliated hospitals. Four cases in which upper airway obstruction required otolaryngological consultation and intervention are reviewed in detail. History, epidemiology and pathophysiology of coccidioidomycosis involving upper airway are discussed. Suggestions for diagnosis and management are outlined.", "PMID": 431241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_755", "title": "The opercular syndrome--diagnostic trap in facial paralysis.", "content": "We describe a patient with a left facial paralysis and hemotympanum following left parieto-occipital skull trauma. The initial admission diagnosis of intratemporal facial nerve injury secondary to temporal bone fracture was incorrect. Normal facial movements during involuntary activity (yawning, laughing at a joke) and focal seizure activity on the paralyzed side of the face, seen subsequently, indicated the site of lesion as supranuclear. The diagnosis of opercular syndrome was made. This syndrome can result when the contralateral frontal lobe is injured. Supranuclear weakness of muscles supplied by the hypoglossal or spinal accessory nerves is also present. Unlike other central paralyses, the facial paralysis in operculum syndrome may not demonstrate \"forehead sparing\" and consequently it may be mistaken for a peripheral paralysis. The neuroanatomic basis for the syndrome is discussed. Signs and symptoms are outlined to help the otolaryngologist avoid this diagnostic pitfall.", "contents": "The opercular syndrome--diagnostic trap in facial paralysis. We describe a patient with a left facial paralysis and hemotympanum following left parieto-occipital skull trauma. The initial admission diagnosis of intratemporal facial nerve injury secondary to temporal bone fracture was incorrect. Normal facial movements during involuntary activity (yawning, laughing at a joke) and focal seizure activity on the paralyzed side of the face, seen subsequently, indicated the site of lesion as supranuclear. The diagnosis of opercular syndrome was made. This syndrome can result when the contralateral frontal lobe is injured. Supranuclear weakness of muscles supplied by the hypoglossal or spinal accessory nerves is also present. Unlike other central paralyses, the facial paralysis in operculum syndrome may not demonstrate \"forehead sparing\" and consequently it may be mistaken for a peripheral paralysis. The neuroanatomic basis for the syndrome is discussed. Signs and symptoms are outlined to help the otolaryngologist avoid this diagnostic pitfall.", "PMID": 431242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_756", "title": "A technique for pharyngeal reconstruction in heavily irradiated patients.", "content": "A technique for esophageal reconstruction using a staged deltopectoral tubed, pedicled flap has been highly successful in irradiated patients. The basic principle involves use of the neck skin as the posterior wall and the dorsal and lateral aspects of the tubed flap to form the anterior and lateral walls of the newly constructed pharynx. The ventral surface forms the cutaneous covering. The submental area and base of tongue are used for implantation of the distal end of the flap, taking advantage of the abundant blood supply of this area. It is a fail-safe method of reconstruction, particularly applicable in cases in which the local skin is of poor quality.", "contents": "A technique for pharyngeal reconstruction in heavily irradiated patients. A technique for esophageal reconstruction using a staged deltopectoral tubed, pedicled flap has been highly successful in irradiated patients. The basic principle involves use of the neck skin as the posterior wall and the dorsal and lateral aspects of the tubed flap to form the anterior and lateral walls of the newly constructed pharynx. The ventral surface forms the cutaneous covering. The submental area and base of tongue are used for implantation of the distal end of the flap, taking advantage of the abundant blood supply of this area. It is a fail-safe method of reconstruction, particularly applicable in cases in which the local skin is of poor quality.", "PMID": 431243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_757", "title": "Oncocytoma of the maxillary sinus.", "content": "A case of oncocytoma of minor salivary gland origin of the left maxillary sinus is presented. No previous reports of oncocytoma confined entirely to the maxillary sinus were found in an extensive computerized search (Medline and Cancerline) of the world literature. The diagnosis and management of these histologically benign but locally aggressive tumors occurring in the head and neck are discussed.", "contents": "Oncocytoma of the maxillary sinus. A case of oncocytoma of minor salivary gland origin of the left maxillary sinus is presented. No previous reports of oncocytoma confined entirely to the maxillary sinus were found in an extensive computerized search (Medline and Cancerline) of the world literature. The diagnosis and management of these histologically benign but locally aggressive tumors occurring in the head and neck are discussed.", "PMID": 431244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_758", "title": "Tracheoesophageal space abscess.", "content": "Two cases of a newly described complication of endotracheal intubation are presented with a discussion of the pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, and treatment evaluation. Treated late, bilateral arytenoid fixation associated with subglottic stenosis is the eventual outcome. Reconstructive efforts in one patient have allowed decannulation two years after onset of his disease following bilateral arytenoidectomy. No reconstructive efforts were attempted in the second patient because of her basic underlying disease process. Early recognition is important and exploratory laryngotracheal-fissure advocated for suspected cases in order to perhaps decrease the devastating consequences of late treatment.", "contents": "Tracheoesophageal space abscess. Two cases of a newly described complication of endotracheal intubation are presented with a discussion of the pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, and treatment evaluation. Treated late, bilateral arytenoid fixation associated with subglottic stenosis is the eventual outcome. Reconstructive efforts in one patient have allowed decannulation two years after onset of his disease following bilateral arytenoidectomy. No reconstructive efforts were attempted in the second patient because of her basic underlying disease process. Early recognition is important and exploratory laryngotracheal-fissure advocated for suspected cases in order to perhaps decrease the devastating consequences of late treatment.", "PMID": 431245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_759", "title": "Survival after unplanned carotid rupture.", "content": "A series of 13 cases with unplanned carotid rupture is summarized. Time from surgery and radiation to rupture, survival time after rupture, and whether tumor is present or not at death is given. The longest survivor lived one year and eight months after rupture and was one of three patients without known tumor at death. Long-term planning for care in the head and neck tumor patient should include the patient and family. Decisions should be made objectively by all rather than during acute care crises. Occasionally a decision not to treat a pending or actual carotid rupture may be the patient's choice.", "contents": "Survival after unplanned carotid rupture. A series of 13 cases with unplanned carotid rupture is summarized. Time from surgery and radiation to rupture, survival time after rupture, and whether tumor is present or not at death is given. The longest survivor lived one year and eight months after rupture and was one of three patients without known tumor at death. Long-term planning for care in the head and neck tumor patient should include the patient and family. Decisions should be made objectively by all rather than during acute care crises. Occasionally a decision not to treat a pending or actual carotid rupture may be the patient's choice.", "PMID": 431246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_760", "title": "Complications of intranasal ethmoidectomy: a review of 1,000 consecutive operations.", "content": "A series of 1,000 consecutive intranasal ethmoidectomies performed on 565 patients was reviewed. There were 28 complications (2.8%) in 26 patients. No patient died, and none became blind. This experience suggests that, in experienced hands, intranasal ethmoidectomy for polypoid disease and chronic ethmoid sinusitis can be a safe operation.", "contents": "Complications of intranasal ethmoidectomy: a review of 1,000 consecutive operations. A series of 1,000 consecutive intranasal ethmoidectomies performed on 565 patients was reviewed. There were 28 complications (2.8%) in 26 patients. No patient died, and none became blind. This experience suggests that, in experienced hands, intranasal ethmoidectomy for polypoid disease and chronic ethmoid sinusitis can be a safe operation.", "PMID": 431247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_761", "title": "Eye protection in the paralyzed face.", "content": "All patients with a VIIth nerve paralysis with any limitation of closure of the eye should have in the office or out-patient clinic setting: 1. paper tarsorrhaphy of the upper or possibly lower lid; 2. artificial tears and/or ointment; and 3. glasses to protect the cornea from air currents. Kinetic and static surgical procedures are discussed. The kinetic procedures include facial nerve repair and grafting, VIIth-XIIth nerve anastamosis, muscle nerve block transplantation, transposition of nonparalyzed muscle and cross over. The principals of VIIth nerve repair and grafting and presented in the intracranial, internal auditory canal, labyrinthine, tympanomastoid and extratemporal sites. The static procedures include resection of redundant skin, fascia lata strip suspension, weakening of contralateral non-paralyzed musculature, and adjunctive procedures such as resection of ptotic melolabial fold, plication of parotid-masseteric fascia, dermal graft suspension, blepharoplasty, brow lift, canthoplasty, horizontal shortening of lower lid, fascial suspension of lower lip, McLaughlin tarsorrhaphy, and palpebral spring. Patient counseling is emphasized.", "contents": "Eye protection in the paralyzed face. All patients with a VIIth nerve paralysis with any limitation of closure of the eye should have in the office or out-patient clinic setting: 1. paper tarsorrhaphy of the upper or possibly lower lid; 2. artificial tears and/or ointment; and 3. glasses to protect the cornea from air currents. Kinetic and static surgical procedures are discussed. The kinetic procedures include facial nerve repair and grafting, VIIth-XIIth nerve anastamosis, muscle nerve block transplantation, transposition of nonparalyzed muscle and cross over. The principals of VIIth nerve repair and grafting and presented in the intracranial, internal auditory canal, labyrinthine, tympanomastoid and extratemporal sites. The static procedures include resection of redundant skin, fascia lata strip suspension, weakening of contralateral non-paralyzed musculature, and adjunctive procedures such as resection of ptotic melolabial fold, plication of parotid-masseteric fascia, dermal graft suspension, blepharoplasty, brow lift, canthoplasty, horizontal shortening of lower lid, fascial suspension of lower lip, McLaughlin tarsorrhaphy, and palpebral spring. Patient counseling is emphasized.", "PMID": 431248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_762", "title": "Eustachian tube function related to the results of tympanoplasty in children.", "content": "The results of tympanoplastic surgery to repair a perforation of the tympanic membrane are less satisfactory in children than in adults. This paper reports the results of a propspective study of 45 children (51 ears) which was undertaken to determine which, if any, detectable and controllable pre or intraoperative parameters might predict the outcome of tympanoplasty surgery. A \"successful\" tympanoplasty was defined as that in which the initial graft took, in which the tympanic membrane remained intact, and which was not associated with high negative middle ear pressure, otitis media with effusion, or cholesteatoma during a follow-up period of one to two years. Assessment of hearing related to the tympanoplastic surgery was not included as an outcome measure. With this criteria, the overall success rate of tympanoplasty in children was 35%. The success of tympanoplasty was not related to graft placement, although the laterally placed grafts had a higher take rate (67%) than grafts placed medially (49%). Preoperative measures, such as the assessment of Eustachian tube function using the modified inflation-deflation test and tympanometric evaluation of the contralateral ear, failed to predict the success of tympanoplasty. Tympanoplasty universally failed in the ears in which an acquired cholesteatoma was present. Children remain uncertain candidates for tympanoplasty surgery since, as a group, their Eustachian tube function is not as good as that of adults.", "contents": "Eustachian tube function related to the results of tympanoplasty in children. The results of tympanoplastic surgery to repair a perforation of the tympanic membrane are less satisfactory in children than in adults. This paper reports the results of a propspective study of 45 children (51 ears) which was undertaken to determine which, if any, detectable and controllable pre or intraoperative parameters might predict the outcome of tympanoplasty surgery. A \"successful\" tympanoplasty was defined as that in which the initial graft took, in which the tympanic membrane remained intact, and which was not associated with high negative middle ear pressure, otitis media with effusion, or cholesteatoma during a follow-up period of one to two years. Assessment of hearing related to the tympanoplastic surgery was not included as an outcome measure. With this criteria, the overall success rate of tympanoplasty in children was 35%. The success of tympanoplasty was not related to graft placement, although the laterally placed grafts had a higher take rate (67%) than grafts placed medially (49%). Preoperative measures, such as the assessment of Eustachian tube function using the modified inflation-deflation test and tympanometric evaluation of the contralateral ear, failed to predict the success of tympanoplasty. Tympanoplasty universally failed in the ears in which an acquired cholesteatoma was present. Children remain uncertain candidates for tympanoplasty surgery since, as a group, their Eustachian tube function is not as good as that of adults.", "PMID": 431249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_763", "title": "Tuning fork decay.", "content": "Tuning fork tests are used routinely by many otologists. A different group of otologists find the tests inconsistent and unreliable. This controversy has probably developed because the audiometer has replaced the tuning fork in hearing measurement. As a result, the art of use of the tuning fork is poorly learned. This study examines decay, one of the physical parameters of tuning forks. Measurements of acoustic (sound wave) and vibration (stem movement) decay were made. Alteration in decay due to pressure changes on the fork stem were studied. Acoustic signals were generated in an anechoic chamber. Vibration measurements were obtained using an artificial mastoid. Analysis of the signals was accomplished by a system of amplifiers, filters, tape recorders, and a graphic recorder. Tuning fork sound decay is a property of the instrument which occurs every time the fork is struck. The decay is a constant in decibels per second. The acoustic mode and the vibration mode decay at similar rates for the same fork. The strike frequency (a higher frequency than the fundamental produced when the fork is struck) also has a constant decay rate in decibels per second, and it is reported here for the first time. Force of 800 gm. and less applied to the bottom of the stem in vibration measurement caused minimal decay constant changes. When the physical parameters of the tuning fork (including this information on damping) are fully studied, tuning fork testing should become more of a science and less of an art.", "contents": "Tuning fork decay. Tuning fork tests are used routinely by many otologists. A different group of otologists find the tests inconsistent and unreliable. This controversy has probably developed because the audiometer has replaced the tuning fork in hearing measurement. As a result, the art of use of the tuning fork is poorly learned. This study examines decay, one of the physical parameters of tuning forks. Measurements of acoustic (sound wave) and vibration (stem movement) decay were made. Alteration in decay due to pressure changes on the fork stem were studied. Acoustic signals were generated in an anechoic chamber. Vibration measurements were obtained using an artificial mastoid. Analysis of the signals was accomplished by a system of amplifiers, filters, tape recorders, and a graphic recorder. Tuning fork sound decay is a property of the instrument which occurs every time the fork is struck. The decay is a constant in decibels per second. The acoustic mode and the vibration mode decay at similar rates for the same fork. The strike frequency (a higher frequency than the fundamental produced when the fork is struck) also has a constant decay rate in decibels per second, and it is reported here for the first time. Force of 800 gm. and less applied to the bottom of the stem in vibration measurement caused minimal decay constant changes. When the physical parameters of the tuning fork (including this information on damping) are fully studied, tuning fork testing should become more of a science and less of an art.", "PMID": 431250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_764", "title": "Frequency and significance of epithelial atypia in laryngeal papillomatosis.", "content": "The clinical records and microscopic sections from 32 patients were reviewed in an attempt to correlate histopathologic features with clinical behavior. Three general clinical groups were identified on the basis of recurrence rates and extent of papillomatosis. In those lesions with the highest frequency of recurrences, epithelial atypia tended to be most pronounced. Although some of the lesions were quite disturbing, there was no evidence of invasive carcinoma. It remains unknown to date whether these cytologic abnormalities represent a neoplastic alteration or possibly atypia on the basis of rapid, but benign, cellular turnover. Further studies at our center and other institutions are necessary to test the proposed classification which, if validated, would provide a means of predicting the course of the disease and efficacy of the chosen management in these difficult cases.", "contents": "Frequency and significance of epithelial atypia in laryngeal papillomatosis. The clinical records and microscopic sections from 32 patients were reviewed in an attempt to correlate histopathologic features with clinical behavior. Three general clinical groups were identified on the basis of recurrence rates and extent of papillomatosis. In those lesions with the highest frequency of recurrences, epithelial atypia tended to be most pronounced. Although some of the lesions were quite disturbing, there was no evidence of invasive carcinoma. It remains unknown to date whether these cytologic abnormalities represent a neoplastic alteration or possibly atypia on the basis of rapid, but benign, cellular turnover. Further studies at our center and other institutions are necessary to test the proposed classification which, if validated, would provide a means of predicting the course of the disease and efficacy of the chosen management in these difficult cases.", "PMID": 431255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_765", "title": "The use of postoperative irradiation--its goals and 1978 attainments.", "content": "The use of postoperative irradiation as an adjunctive measure for better control of local and regional disease after a surgical procedure has been used at the Anderson Hospital since approximately 1965. The common clinical setting occurs in those patients in whom, after surgical ablation of the tumor, there are microscopic foci of residual disease at the margins, perineural invasion, histologically a very poorly differentiated carcinoma, dermal lymphatic involvement, multiple nodes in the neck or very large nodes in which the tumor has broken through the nodal capsule and entered the connective tissue. We have been applying this criterion for the treatment of salivary gland malignancies, squamous carcinomas of the hypopharynx and supraglottic larynx, and all sites in the head and neck in which there was extensive cercical nodal metastasis. The results of this therapeutic approach will be reported and discussed.", "contents": "The use of postoperative irradiation--its goals and 1978 attainments. The use of postoperative irradiation as an adjunctive measure for better control of local and regional disease after a surgical procedure has been used at the Anderson Hospital since approximately 1965. The common clinical setting occurs in those patients in whom, after surgical ablation of the tumor, there are microscopic foci of residual disease at the margins, perineural invasion, histologically a very poorly differentiated carcinoma, dermal lymphatic involvement, multiple nodes in the neck or very large nodes in which the tumor has broken through the nodal capsule and entered the connective tissue. We have been applying this criterion for the treatment of salivary gland malignancies, squamous carcinomas of the hypopharynx and supraglottic larynx, and all sites in the head and neck in which there was extensive cercical nodal metastasis. The results of this therapeutic approach will be reported and discussed.", "PMID": 431257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_766", "title": "Increased survival with surgery alone vs. combined therapy.", "content": "Recent investigations have questioned the efficacy of a combined therapy regimen with irradiation. The purpose of this study was to compare the survivals with surgery alone versus combined therapy (pre-op irradiation) and to analyze any apparent differences to identify the source(s) of failure. Two and five-year determinate survivals for this group identify the source(s) of failure. Two and five-year determinate survivals for this group were found to be significantly better for surgery alone. There is no instance where combination therapy is found to be statistically superior. An analysis of treatment failures showed that distant metastases occurred at a greater rate in the combined therapy patients than they did with those treated by surgery alone. The advisability of combined therapy using preoperative irradiation with its increased cost and morbidity to the patient is questioned if it does not improve survival over surgery used as a single modality.", "contents": "Increased survival with surgery alone vs. combined therapy. Recent investigations have questioned the efficacy of a combined therapy regimen with irradiation. The purpose of this study was to compare the survivals with surgery alone versus combined therapy (pre-op irradiation) and to analyze any apparent differences to identify the source(s) of failure. Two and five-year determinate survivals for this group identify the source(s) of failure. Two and five-year determinate survivals for this group were found to be significantly better for surgery alone. There is no instance where combination therapy is found to be statistically superior. An analysis of treatment failures showed that distant metastases occurred at a greater rate in the combined therapy patients than they did with those treated by surgery alone. The advisability of combined therapy using preoperative irradiation with its increased cost and morbidity to the patient is questioned if it does not improve survival over surgery used as a single modality.", "PMID": 431258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_767", "title": "Health care costs of laryngeal surgery.", "content": "The total costs of various laryngeal surgeries were considered from initial visit through one year postoperatively. For the four most widely used procedures, average costs were: laryngoscopy with biopsy, $1,000.00; hemilaryngectomy, $5,035.00; total laryngectomy $6,010.00; and supraglottic laryngectomy and neck dissection, $12,096.00. Most ancillary service charges decrease as length of hospitalization increases except for pharmacy and respiratory therapy. Physicians whose decisions affect health care should also take cognizance of health care costs.", "contents": "Health care costs of laryngeal surgery. The total costs of various laryngeal surgeries were considered from initial visit through one year postoperatively. For the four most widely used procedures, average costs were: laryngoscopy with biopsy, $1,000.00; hemilaryngectomy, $5,035.00; total laryngectomy $6,010.00; and supraglottic laryngectomy and neck dissection, $12,096.00. Most ancillary service charges decrease as length of hospitalization increases except for pharmacy and respiratory therapy. Physicians whose decisions affect health care should also take cognizance of health care costs.", "PMID": 431259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_768", "title": "Effect of prophylactic antibiotics in radical head and neck surgery.", "content": "One hundred major head and neck operations performed on 77 patients were evaluated regarding the effectiveness of an aminoglycoside and cephalosporin antibiotic combination given prophylactically to prevent postoperative infection. The postoperative infection incidence was 6%, significantly lower than that reported in similar series where no antibiotics were used. The addition of the aminoglycoside did not appear to provide any additional protection compared with the use of cephalosporin alone.", "contents": "Effect of prophylactic antibiotics in radical head and neck surgery. One hundred major head and neck operations performed on 77 patients were evaluated regarding the effectiveness of an aminoglycoside and cephalosporin antibiotic combination given prophylactically to prevent postoperative infection. The postoperative infection incidence was 6%, significantly lower than that reported in similar series where no antibiotics were used. The addition of the aminoglycoside did not appear to provide any additional protection compared with the use of cephalosporin alone.", "PMID": 431260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_769", "title": "Glottic reconstruction after near total laryngectomy.", "content": "It is generally accepted that vertical partial laryngectomy can yield satisfactory cure rates in properly selected glottic carcinomas. Several authors have discussed different reconstructive techniques following extended vertical partial laryngectomy. These have included the use of stents, keels, various soft tissue \"free\" grafts, or muscle transplants. All of the above require prolonged tracheostomy and staged surgical procedures with the resultant upper airway sometimes being less than satisfactory.", "contents": "Glottic reconstruction after near total laryngectomy. It is generally accepted that vertical partial laryngectomy can yield satisfactory cure rates in properly selected glottic carcinomas. Several authors have discussed different reconstructive techniques following extended vertical partial laryngectomy. These have included the use of stents, keels, various soft tissue \"free\" grafts, or muscle transplants. All of the above require prolonged tracheostomy and staged surgical procedures with the resultant upper airway sometimes being less than satisfactory.", "PMID": 431261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_770", "title": "Chronic vasomotor rhinitis: cryogenic and other surgical modes of treatment.", "content": "Cryosurgical treatment of chronic vasomotor rhinitis provides a safe, effective and uncomplicated mode of management for this very common otolaryngologic disorder. Data relating to three hundred fifty patients is presented with particular reference to patient selection criteria, cryosurgical techniques and results.", "contents": "Chronic vasomotor rhinitis: cryogenic and other surgical modes of treatment. Cryosurgical treatment of chronic vasomotor rhinitis provides a safe, effective and uncomplicated mode of management for this very common otolaryngologic disorder. Data relating to three hundred fifty patients is presented with particular reference to patient selection criteria, cryosurgical techniques and results.", "PMID": 431262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_771", "title": "The cochlear aqueduct: structural considerations.", "content": "Perusing 170 series of temporal bone sections, the course of the aqueduct was found to be a spindle shape, based on numerous dilatations in the middle section. Ample space was offered for development of bony excrescences such as exostotic depositions and osteoma-like protrusions of all sizes. These added considerably to the difficulties of a free passage through the aqueduct.", "contents": "The cochlear aqueduct: structural considerations. Perusing 170 series of temporal bone sections, the course of the aqueduct was found to be a spindle shape, based on numerous dilatations in the middle section. Ample space was offered for development of bony excrescences such as exostotic depositions and osteoma-like protrusions of all sizes. These added considerably to the difficulties of a free passage through the aqueduct.", "PMID": 431263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_772", "title": "Impulsive and sinusoidal rotatory testing: a comparison with results of caloric testing.", "content": "The usefulness of rotatory testing (impulsive and sinusoidal) as an indicator of impaired horizontal semicircular canal function was evaluated in 63 patients with unilateral and bilateral decreased caloric responses. The rotatory stimuli were precisely controlled over a large magnitude range and EOG recorded nystagmus responses were quantified using digital analysis techniques. Rotatory testing was consistently abnormal in patients with complete unilateral caloric paralyses but was normal in over one-half of the patients with significant but less than complete unilateral caloric paralyses. The difference in maximum slow component velocity (SVMX) of induced nystagmus after the largest rotatory stimuli was the best indicator of unilateral impaired function. The patients with bilateral decreased caloric responses demonstrated three categories of rotatory response: 1. normal at all magnitudes of stimulation, 2. decreased but present after large magnitude stimuli, and 3. absent responses. It is concluded that although rotatory testing cannot replace caloric testing it can provide useful clinical information particularly in patients suspected of having bilateral vestibular disease.", "contents": "Impulsive and sinusoidal rotatory testing: a comparison with results of caloric testing. The usefulness of rotatory testing (impulsive and sinusoidal) as an indicator of impaired horizontal semicircular canal function was evaluated in 63 patients with unilateral and bilateral decreased caloric responses. The rotatory stimuli were precisely controlled over a large magnitude range and EOG recorded nystagmus responses were quantified using digital analysis techniques. Rotatory testing was consistently abnormal in patients with complete unilateral caloric paralyses but was normal in over one-half of the patients with significant but less than complete unilateral caloric paralyses. The difference in maximum slow component velocity (SVMX) of induced nystagmus after the largest rotatory stimuli was the best indicator of unilateral impaired function. The patients with bilateral decreased caloric responses demonstrated three categories of rotatory response: 1. normal at all magnitudes of stimulation, 2. decreased but present after large magnitude stimuli, and 3. absent responses. It is concluded that although rotatory testing cannot replace caloric testing it can provide useful clinical information particularly in patients suspected of having bilateral vestibular disease.", "PMID": 431264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_773", "title": "Directional handle for Zeiss operating microscope.", "content": "A new directional handle for the Zeiss operating microscope is presented. This handle offers the advantage of single-handed (right or left) control by natural movement of the wrist. The handle may be used by grasping it through the see-through sterile drape or sterilized separately and placed outside the sterile microscope drape.", "contents": "Directional handle for Zeiss operating microscope. A new directional handle for the Zeiss operating microscope is presented. This handle offers the advantage of single-handed (right or left) control by natural movement of the wrist. The handle may be used by grasping it through the see-through sterile drape or sterilized separately and placed outside the sterile microscope drape.", "PMID": 431265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_774", "title": "Calibrated otoplasty.", "content": "The number of patients seeking correction of abnormally protruding ears has decreased in the past ten years because of changing hairstyles and concepts of body image. During the same time there has been an increase in the number of surgeon and surgical disciplines seeking to perform cosmetic otoplasty. To compensate for this deficit in total volume experience of the individual operator and to insure patients of a consistently acceptable cosmetic result, the concept of calibrated otoplasty is presented. A study was made of a large number of ears which appeared to be esthetically in harmony with each other and with the side of the head. The distance relationships obtained from this study were applied not only to the creation of a new antihelix in the first ear but the degree to which the ear projects from the side of the head. At the conclusion of the first ear operation, careful measurements were taken for use in the second ear operation to insure its being as near normal as the first in form and degree of projection of the ear from the head. This concept of calibrated otoplasty is explained in detail with illustrations of all required measurements plus a series of surgical illustrations showing application of the technique.", "contents": "Calibrated otoplasty. The number of patients seeking correction of abnormally protruding ears has decreased in the past ten years because of changing hairstyles and concepts of body image. During the same time there has been an increase in the number of surgeon and surgical disciplines seeking to perform cosmetic otoplasty. To compensate for this deficit in total volume experience of the individual operator and to insure patients of a consistently acceptable cosmetic result, the concept of calibrated otoplasty is presented. A study was made of a large number of ears which appeared to be esthetically in harmony with each other and with the side of the head. The distance relationships obtained from this study were applied not only to the creation of a new antihelix in the first ear but the degree to which the ear projects from the side of the head. At the conclusion of the first ear operation, careful measurements were taken for use in the second ear operation to insure its being as near normal as the first in form and degree of projection of the ear from the head. This concept of calibrated otoplasty is explained in detail with illustrations of all required measurements plus a series of surgical illustrations showing application of the technique.", "PMID": 431266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_775", "title": "Linear nevus sebaceous of Jadassohn.", "content": "Though the described lesion is uncommon, it is nevertheless important to recognize for several reasons. Its rapid growth during certain phases makes early recognition and surgical excision mandatory to preclude cosmetic deformity. In addition, its significant tendency for malignant degeneration makes early excision the preferred treatment.", "contents": "Linear nevus sebaceous of Jadassohn. Though the described lesion is uncommon, it is nevertheless important to recognize for several reasons. Its rapid growth during certain phases makes early recognition and surgical excision mandatory to preclude cosmetic deformity. In addition, its significant tendency for malignant degeneration makes early excision the preferred treatment.", "PMID": 431267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_776", "title": "Office photography for facial cosmetic surgery.", "content": "A photographic record of the appearance of the patient's face and neck preoperatively, and of the changes resulting from surgery is a most important aspect of facial cosmetic surgery. This report describes a practical, efficient system of photography performed in the surgeon's own office. The photographic equipment can be placed in a relatively small area at a total cost of well under $1000. The procedure described, when smoothly running can provide almost 99% efficacy in obtaining consistently good photographs with a minimum of effort and time spent by the surgeon and his office staff. The photographs are a precise, valuable record (medically and legally) of the patient's preoperative and postoperative appearances, and are important for the patient to see and for the surgeon to study. The patient is provided with a striking reminder of preoperative reality; the surgeon with insight into the progress of his surgical expertness.", "contents": "Office photography for facial cosmetic surgery. A photographic record of the appearance of the patient's face and neck preoperatively, and of the changes resulting from surgery is a most important aspect of facial cosmetic surgery. This report describes a practical, efficient system of photography performed in the surgeon's own office. The photographic equipment can be placed in a relatively small area at a total cost of well under $1000. The procedure described, when smoothly running can provide almost 99% efficacy in obtaining consistently good photographs with a minimum of effort and time spent by the surgeon and his office staff. The photographs are a precise, valuable record (medically and legally) of the patient's preoperative and postoperative appearances, and are important for the patient to see and for the surgeon to study. The patient is provided with a striking reminder of preoperative reality; the surgeon with insight into the progress of his surgical expertness.", "PMID": 431269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_777", "title": "[Simulator of cardiac activity signals].", "content": "Imitators of physiological signals are in need for production of electronic medical equipment and modeling the biological systems. The known imitators are rather intricate and incapable to control the output signal within a wide range. The imitator now offered allows to reproduce any signal that reflects the activity of a cardiovascular system under normal and pathologic conditions.", "contents": "[Simulator of cardiac activity signals]. Imitators of physiological signals are in need for production of electronic medical equipment and modeling the biological systems. The known imitators are rather intricate and incapable to control the output signal within a wide range. The imitator now offered allows to reproduce any signal that reflects the activity of a cardiovascular system under normal and pathologic conditions.", "PMID": 431356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_778", "title": "[Equipment realization of the Bouilland selective transformation for the routine analysis of the slow waves of cardiac rhythm].", "content": "An increased amplitude of the cardiac rhythm slow waves is a significant indication for the initial stage of occupational fatigue. To control the dynamics of these waves, a multichannel device is offered which measures continuously the cardiac cycle duration (R--R intervals) and transforms the measured values in the real-time mode.", "contents": "[Equipment realization of the Bouilland selective transformation for the routine analysis of the slow waves of cardiac rhythm]. An increased amplitude of the cardiac rhythm slow waves is a significant indication for the initial stage of occupational fatigue. To control the dynamics of these waves, a multichannel device is offered which measures continuously the cardiac cycle duration (R--R intervals) and transforms the measured values in the real-time mode.", "PMID": 431359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_779", "title": "[Electroureterograph and dynamoureterograph].", "content": "The results of investigations made by the authors showed that the signal spectra of the bioelectrical and mechanical activity of the ureteral smooth muscles lie within the range of 0.05--1 Hz. The developed devices for registration of electro-and dynamograms of ureters may be utilized in investigating the functional state of the urinary system of the organism.", "contents": "[Electroureterograph and dynamoureterograph]. The results of investigations made by the authors showed that the signal spectra of the bioelectrical and mechanical activity of the ureteral smooth muscles lie within the range of 0.05--1 Hz. The developed devices for registration of electro-and dynamograms of ureters may be utilized in investigating the functional state of the urinary system of the organism.", "PMID": 431361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_780", "title": "[Automatic instrument for measuring blood pressure indirectly].", "content": "The PPB-01 automatic blood pressure meter is recommended to ease the medical staff efforts, provide higher accuracy, and ability to further data input in the devices for automatic processing of biomedical information. Its functioning is based on variation of the slope of positive pulse-wave part. The meter features a high noise immunity and permits measurement at a moderate motor activity.", "contents": "[Automatic instrument for measuring blood pressure indirectly]. The PPB-01 automatic blood pressure meter is recommended to ease the medical staff efforts, provide higher accuracy, and ability to further data input in the devices for automatic processing of biomedical information. Its functioning is based on variation of the slope of positive pulse-wave part. The meter features a high noise immunity and permits measurement at a moderate motor activity.", "PMID": 431357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_781", "title": "[Possibility of increasing the efficiency of the apparatus for analysing the R-R intervals of electrocardiograms].", "content": "To increase the operation speed of devices recording the R--R intervals on electrocardiograms, the authors performed a theoretical analysis of the differential-statistical method used for signal transformation, and elaborated a special block for p4-ch-0l electronic polygraph. Clinical trials confirmed the theoretical and experimental results and indicated that the new block based on the differential-statistical signal transformation allows, by means of recorders, to register the rhythmograms at a high resolution and without distortions.", "contents": "[Possibility of increasing the efficiency of the apparatus for analysing the R-R intervals of electrocardiograms]. To increase the operation speed of devices recording the R--R intervals on electrocardiograms, the authors performed a theoretical analysis of the differential-statistical method used for signal transformation, and elaborated a special block for p4-ch-0l electronic polygraph. Clinical trials confirmed the theoretical and experimental results and indicated that the new block based on the differential-statistical signal transformation allows, by means of recorders, to register the rhythmograms at a high resolution and without distortions.", "PMID": 431358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_782", "title": "[Flexible ultrasonic echo-probes and the prospects for their use in oncological practice].", "content": "Medico-technical requirements for a flexible echo-probe that can be connected to the Soviet-made ultrasonic diagnostic devices of the uda-724, uda-871, \u00e9kho-aa, \u00e9kho-12 types etc, were laid down. A mock-up of a flexible echo-probe, based on the electrical scanning by an ultrasonic beam was constructed. The use of flexible echo-probes broadens the possibilities for the ultrasonic investigations of tumours in the esophagus, stomach and rectum in the oncological practice.", "contents": "[Flexible ultrasonic echo-probes and the prospects for their use in oncological practice]. Medico-technical requirements for a flexible echo-probe that can be connected to the Soviet-made ultrasonic diagnostic devices of the uda-724, uda-871, \u00e9kho-aa, \u00e9kho-12 types etc, were laid down. A mock-up of a flexible echo-probe, based on the electrical scanning by an ultrasonic beam was constructed. The use of flexible echo-probes broadens the possibilities for the ultrasonic investigations of tumours in the esophagus, stomach and rectum in the oncological practice.", "PMID": 431362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_783", "title": "[Digital readout of the results in using the IPR-01 sequential reaction measuring instrument].", "content": "A scheme of the device for connecting to the IPR-01 digital readout appliance was adjusted. This consists in that the signal from a time-metering unit (TMU) goes to the control unit outlet, which secures the read-out of the signals from the TMU, continuing in the information storage conditions.", "contents": "[Digital readout of the results in using the IPR-01 sequential reaction measuring instrument]. A scheme of the device for connecting to the IPR-01 digital readout appliance was adjusted. This consists in that the signal from a time-metering unit (TMU) goes to the control unit outlet, which secures the read-out of the signals from the TMU, continuing in the information storage conditions.", "PMID": 431365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_784", "title": "[Medical equipment at the Leipzig Fall Fair, 1978].", "content": "This is an attempt to reveal the main directions and trends in the medical technique progress, as evidenced by the most interesting exhibits at the 1978 Autumn Leipzig Fair. Advantages of the functional-block designing method were noted, seen in the instruments made for clinical diagnostic laboratories. Promising features are emphasized, intrinsic for units intended for reconstructive X-ray tomography, autoanalysers for studying blood, enzymes and substrates, as well as for ultrasonic diagnostic devices. The latter provide a combination of A and B-mode echography, or the M-type scanning with Doppler ultrasonic pulse investigation. Such a combination allows to fix on the echogram the precise position of the structure being investigated by the Doppler approach.", "contents": "[Medical equipment at the Leipzig Fall Fair, 1978]. This is an attempt to reveal the main directions and trends in the medical technique progress, as evidenced by the most interesting exhibits at the 1978 Autumn Leipzig Fair. Advantages of the functional-block designing method were noted, seen in the instruments made for clinical diagnostic laboratories. Promising features are emphasized, intrinsic for units intended for reconstructive X-ray tomography, autoanalysers for studying blood, enzymes and substrates, as well as for ultrasonic diagnostic devices. The latter provide a combination of A and B-mode echography, or the M-type scanning with Doppler ultrasonic pulse investigation. Such a combination allows to fix on the echogram the precise position of the structure being investigated by the Doppler approach.", "PMID": 431363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_785", "title": "[Experience of the Medequipment Scientific and Industrial Combine in organizing and performing controlled operation of medical equipment].", "content": "Most effective form of organizing operation under control of medical purpose products in their exploitation conducted by the manufacturing plant and medical establishments with direct participation and under methodological guidance of the designing body. The processing and analysis of the gathered information help detect main causes of design and technological nature leading to lowering the quality of the product.", "contents": "[Experience of the Medequipment Scientific and Industrial Combine in organizing and performing controlled operation of medical equipment]. Most effective form of organizing operation under control of medical purpose products in their exploitation conducted by the manufacturing plant and medical establishments with direct participation and under methodological guidance of the designing body. The processing and analysis of the gathered information help detect main causes of design and technological nature leading to lowering the quality of the product.", "PMID": 431366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_786", "title": "Infective endocarditis caused by slow-growing, fastidious, Gram-negative bacteria.", "content": "In a review of endocarditis caused by fastidious, slow-growing gram-negative rods, similarities in the spectrum of disease overshadow differences among cases grouped by specific organisms. Cardiobacterium hominis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Haemophilus species usually seed previously damaged cardiac valves presumably during bacteremia from an upper respiratory site. The clinical presentation resembles that of Streptococcus viridans endocarditis and is usually subacute or chronic. Despite bacteriologic cure, severe CHF and/or systemic embolization frequently develops during or following the course of antibiotics, resulting in significant morbidity and a high mortality rate. This report of nine cases diagnosed at five hospitals in a 7-year period suggests that endocarditis due to these organisms is more common than previously appreciated and frequently goes unrecognized. This is probably due to a lack of attention to the requirements for culture of this group of bacteria with propensity for granular growth in broth. We have proposed specific cultural techniques appropriate to the search for these organisms in patients with apparent culture-negative endocarditis.", "contents": "Infective endocarditis caused by slow-growing, fastidious, Gram-negative bacteria. In a review of endocarditis caused by fastidious, slow-growing gram-negative rods, similarities in the spectrum of disease overshadow differences among cases grouped by specific organisms. Cardiobacterium hominis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Haemophilus species usually seed previously damaged cardiac valves presumably during bacteremia from an upper respiratory site. The clinical presentation resembles that of Streptococcus viridans endocarditis and is usually subacute or chronic. Despite bacteriologic cure, severe CHF and/or systemic embolization frequently develops during or following the course of antibiotics, resulting in significant morbidity and a high mortality rate. This report of nine cases diagnosed at five hospitals in a 7-year period suggests that endocarditis due to these organisms is more common than previously appreciated and frequently goes unrecognized. This is probably due to a lack of attention to the requirements for culture of this group of bacteria with propensity for granular growth in broth. We have proposed specific cultural techniques appropriate to the search for these organisms in patients with apparent culture-negative endocarditis.", "PMID": 431400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_787", "title": "A randomized comparative trial of three aminoglycosides--comparison of continuous infusions of gentamicin, amikacin and sisomicin combined with carbenicillin in the treatment of infections in neutropenic patients with malignancies.", "content": "Continuous infusions of gentamicin, amikacin or sisomicin combined with carbenicillin were compared in a randomized study in the treatment of 572 febrile episodes in 281 patients with cancer. The three treatments (C+A, C+A and C+S) were equally effective with no significant differences in response rate overall (67%, 68%, 67%) or in any infection, except septicemia where C+G had a significantly lower response rate than the other two groups. Pneumonia, the most common infection, had the lowest response rate for all three groups (45-50%). Klebsiella spp. were the most common pathogens and showed a lower response rate than other gram-negative bacilli (P = 0.003). Patients with persistent severe neutropenia had a response rate of 56%. Azotemia was significantly less common in patients with documented infection treated with C+A than in the C+S group. Combinations of carbenicillin plus an aminoglycoside antibiotic are effective for the treatment of infections in neutropenic patients.", "contents": "A randomized comparative trial of three aminoglycosides--comparison of continuous infusions of gentamicin, amikacin and sisomicin combined with carbenicillin in the treatment of infections in neutropenic patients with malignancies. Continuous infusions of gentamicin, amikacin or sisomicin combined with carbenicillin were compared in a randomized study in the treatment of 572 febrile episodes in 281 patients with cancer. The three treatments (C+A, C+A and C+S) were equally effective with no significant differences in response rate overall (67%, 68%, 67%) or in any infection, except septicemia where C+G had a significantly lower response rate than the other two groups. Pneumonia, the most common infection, had the lowest response rate for all three groups (45-50%). Klebsiella spp. were the most common pathogens and showed a lower response rate than other gram-negative bacilli (P = 0.003). Patients with persistent severe neutropenia had a response rate of 56%. Azotemia was significantly less common in patients with documented infection treated with C+A than in the C+S group. Combinations of carbenicillin plus an aminoglycoside antibiotic are effective for the treatment of infections in neutropenic patients.", "PMID": 431401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_788", "title": "Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP): a local disease with systemic manifestations. Report of 23 patients and review of the literature.", "content": "The clinical, pathological and radiographic findings of 135 cases of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis have been reviewed. It is a form of renal suppuration and obstruction most commonly seen in middle aged women although all ages and both sexes may be affected. There is no race predilection. Gram-negative organisms are usually present and bilateral involvement has not been reported. The most common offending organism is Proteus mirabilis. Hepatic dysfunction is seen and appears to normalize with removal of the XGP process. Preoperative angiography may increase the accuracy of differentiating this disorder from hypernephroma and may aid the surgeon in planning his approach to kidney resection depending upon the staging of XGP. Chronic renal failure is not usually a feature of XGP and nephrectomy is curative without any incidence of recurrence.", "contents": "Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP): a local disease with systemic manifestations. Report of 23 patients and review of the literature. The clinical, pathological and radiographic findings of 135 cases of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis have been reviewed. It is a form of renal suppuration and obstruction most commonly seen in middle aged women although all ages and both sexes may be affected. There is no race predilection. Gram-negative organisms are usually present and bilateral involvement has not been reported. The most common offending organism is Proteus mirabilis. Hepatic dysfunction is seen and appears to normalize with removal of the XGP process. Preoperative angiography may increase the accuracy of differentiating this disorder from hypernephroma and may aid the surgeon in planning his approach to kidney resection depending upon the staging of XGP. Chronic renal failure is not usually a feature of XGP and nephrectomy is curative without any incidence of recurrence.", "PMID": 431402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_789", "title": "[Device for time lapse studies on living cells in vitro (author's transl)].", "content": "Optical components of an inverted microscope have been utilized to set up a device for the observation of living cells under phase contrast conditions. Time lapse recording is performed either by use of a super-8 movie-camera or by a 1/2 inch video device. A special design provides a high focal stability. Standard plastic culture flasks can be used for high optical quality recordings. Both types of recording require low light intensities which results in a minimal light induced cell damaging.", "contents": "[Device for time lapse studies on living cells in vitro (author's transl)]. Optical components of an inverted microscope have been utilized to set up a device for the observation of living cells under phase contrast conditions. Time lapse recording is performed either by use of a super-8 movie-camera or by a 1/2 inch video device. A special design provides a high focal stability. Standard plastic culture flasks can be used for high optical quality recordings. Both types of recording require low light intensities which results in a minimal light induced cell damaging.", "PMID": 431404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_790", "title": "An investigation of change in medical students' conceptualizations of psychiatric patients due to a short training course in psychiatry.", "content": "The paper describes an investigation of medical students' conceptualizations of different psychiatric patients categories, using the Katz-Braly stereotype measuring technique and the semantic differential technique. The conceptual content of sixteen fourth year medical students' stereotypes of psychiatric patient categories was elicited and their evaluations of the categories were measured. These measures were taken before and after a two-month training course in psychiatry and special attention was paid to changes that appeared to result from the educational process. The Katz-Braly stereotype measure produces a work picture of each patients category involving four traits; for instance for the category neurotic the following traits were derived: 'temperamental', 'hypochondriacal', 'worried' and 'tense'. The important triats for each category were analysed separately to determine if any statistically significant changes in the stereotype had occurred over the two-month training course. Several significant additions and omissions of traits were found. These changes may be explained as the result of teaching, the students' direct experience of psychiatric patients and their acquisition of a new technical vocabulary. Despite the changes in the students' stereotypes of patients, their evaluations of the patients, as measured by the semantic differential, remained substantially unaltered by the training course.", "contents": "An investigation of change in medical students' conceptualizations of psychiatric patients due to a short training course in psychiatry. The paper describes an investigation of medical students' conceptualizations of different psychiatric patients categories, using the Katz-Braly stereotype measuring technique and the semantic differential technique. The conceptual content of sixteen fourth year medical students' stereotypes of psychiatric patient categories was elicited and their evaluations of the categories were measured. These measures were taken before and after a two-month training course in psychiatry and special attention was paid to changes that appeared to result from the educational process. The Katz-Braly stereotype measure produces a work picture of each patients category involving four traits; for instance for the category neurotic the following traits were derived: 'temperamental', 'hypochondriacal', 'worried' and 'tense'. The important triats for each category were analysed separately to determine if any statistically significant changes in the stereotype had occurred over the two-month training course. Several significant additions and omissions of traits were found. These changes may be explained as the result of teaching, the students' direct experience of psychiatric patients and their acquisition of a new technical vocabulary. Despite the changes in the students' stereotypes of patients, their evaluations of the patients, as measured by the semantic differential, remained substantially unaltered by the training course.", "PMID": 431415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_791", "title": "Attitudes of health science students towards teaching practices, examinations, and other related issues.", "content": "A brief multiple choice questionnaire explored the attitudes of students enrolled in several health science faculties (medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and physical and health education). A substantial proportion indicated a wish for more challenging lectures. On the other hand, the majority of students devoted less than one hour of personal study per week to required 'courses', interest in health-related 'courses' being particularly weak. Small textbooks with minimal references were desired, and relatively little use was made of free lecture handouts. Financial constraints had little influence on personal study, but affected textbook purchase. The demand for 'handouts' would have been reduced by a charge. Frequent term examinations as a stimulus to learning were favoured by all groups, as were full or challenging presentations by instructors. Team teaching, although favoured generally, was not equally appealing to all groups.", "contents": "Attitudes of health science students towards teaching practices, examinations, and other related issues. A brief multiple choice questionnaire explored the attitudes of students enrolled in several health science faculties (medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and physical and health education). A substantial proportion indicated a wish for more challenging lectures. On the other hand, the majority of students devoted less than one hour of personal study per week to required 'courses', interest in health-related 'courses' being particularly weak. Small textbooks with minimal references were desired, and relatively little use was made of free lecture handouts. Financial constraints had little influence on personal study, but affected textbook purchase. The demand for 'handouts' would have been reduced by a charge. Frequent term examinations as a stimulus to learning were favoured by all groups, as were full or challenging presentations by instructors. Team teaching, although favoured generally, was not equally appealing to all groups.", "PMID": 431416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_792", "title": "The influence of a lecture course in loss and grief on medical students: an empirical study of attitude formation.", "content": "In this study the results of a questionnaire administered to medical students attending a lecture course on loss and grief are analysed. The focus of the inquiry was to determine whether attitudes towards death, dying and loss could be influenced by confrontation with factual information on bereavement. The results showed that the original idealized attitudes underwent a reality correction due to increased factual knowledge of bereavement processes. The defensive attitudes of students who experienced death in their family during the course are discussed. Intensity and temporality of one's involvement with death appear to be a determining factor in the formation of attitudes towards death. Typical male and female attitudes are also presented. It is concluded that the institutionalization of education in bereavement processes should receive priority in medical programmes and that the classical lecture deserves its place therein.", "contents": "The influence of a lecture course in loss and grief on medical students: an empirical study of attitude formation. In this study the results of a questionnaire administered to medical students attending a lecture course on loss and grief are analysed. The focus of the inquiry was to determine whether attitudes towards death, dying and loss could be influenced by confrontation with factual information on bereavement. The results showed that the original idealized attitudes underwent a reality correction due to increased factual knowledge of bereavement processes. The defensive attitudes of students who experienced death in their family during the course are discussed. Intensity and temporality of one's involvement with death appear to be a determining factor in the formation of attitudes towards death. Typical male and female attitudes are also presented. It is concluded that the institutionalization of education in bereavement processes should receive priority in medical programmes and that the classical lecture deserves its place therein.", "PMID": 431417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_793", "title": "Differential evaluation of students' performance in histology. All questions are equal but some are more equal than others.", "content": "Construction of multiple choice questions in histology is often hampered by the difficulty in finding alternatives to the correct answer which will be neither trivial nor ludicrous. An additional problem appears when the student performance on the morphological and the functional aspects needs to be assessed. A method of test construction is presented which includes 'multi-dimensional' questions. The questions reflect the objectives of the course and performance is evaluated differentially according to the importance attributed to their content. 'Essential knowledge' is more highly rewarded than knowledge deemed secondary by the course's planners.", "contents": "Differential evaluation of students' performance in histology. All questions are equal but some are more equal than others. Construction of multiple choice questions in histology is often hampered by the difficulty in finding alternatives to the correct answer which will be neither trivial nor ludicrous. An additional problem appears when the student performance on the morphological and the functional aspects needs to be assessed. A method of test construction is presented which includes 'multi-dimensional' questions. The questions reflect the objectives of the course and performance is evaluated differentially according to the importance attributed to their content. 'Essential knowledge' is more highly rewarded than knowledge deemed secondary by the course's planners.", "PMID": 431419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_794", "title": "Teaching communication skills to pre-clinical medical students: a general practice based approach.", "content": "This paper describes a method of teaching communication skills to pre-clinical medical students in the setting of general practice. By focusing on the nature of the patient's problem this teaching tries to place interviewing and diagnostic procedures in their proper context in the doctor-patient relationship.", "contents": "Teaching communication skills to pre-clinical medical students: a general practice based approach. This paper describes a method of teaching communication skills to pre-clinical medical students in the setting of general practice. By focusing on the nature of the patient's problem this teaching tries to place interviewing and diagnostic procedures in their proper context in the doctor-patient relationship.", "PMID": 431420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_795", "title": "A preliminary investigation of three types of multiple choice questions.", "content": "The present study reports the results of an evaluation of three types of multiple choice questions--the five choice completion, and assertion-reason. Fifty-four questions, eighteen of each type and measuring the candidate on the same scientific principle and classified as either factual or comprehension, were developed and included in the General Surgery certifying examination of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. In addition to using descriptive statistics, the multitrait-multimethod technique was used to investigate whether the item types measured different aspects of examinee capabilities. Results indicated that performance on the five choice completion and the multiple completion type questions was roughly the same, whereas performance on the assertion-reason type was lower. The results of the multitrait-multimethod validation revealed that the three item types were unable to discriminate between the two traits of factual and comprehension.", "contents": "A preliminary investigation of three types of multiple choice questions. The present study reports the results of an evaluation of three types of multiple choice questions--the five choice completion, and assertion-reason. Fifty-four questions, eighteen of each type and measuring the candidate on the same scientific principle and classified as either factual or comprehension, were developed and included in the General Surgery certifying examination of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. In addition to using descriptive statistics, the multitrait-multimethod technique was used to investigate whether the item types measured different aspects of examinee capabilities. Results indicated that performance on the five choice completion and the multiple completion type questions was roughly the same, whereas performance on the assertion-reason type was lower. The results of the multitrait-multimethod validation revealed that the three item types were unable to discriminate between the two traits of factual and comprehension.", "PMID": 431421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_796", "title": "Introducing students to the medical literature.", "content": "It is extremely difficut to determine if it really makes a difference to provide a medical journal to medical students. Does it alter their reading habits? Does it indeed form the basis for learning? In 1976 84% of the third year class and in 1972 69% (n=97), personally subscribed to a Journal designated. In the fourth year class, 75% (n=149) subscribed in 1976 and 58% (n=82) in 1972. The conclusion is that the New England Journal of Medicine Project can be viewed as an endeavour which meets the need of students.", "contents": "Introducing students to the medical literature. It is extremely difficut to determine if it really makes a difference to provide a medical journal to medical students. Does it alter their reading habits? Does it indeed form the basis for learning? In 1976 84% of the third year class and in 1972 69% (n=97), personally subscribed to a Journal designated. In the fourth year class, 75% (n=149) subscribed in 1976 and 58% (n=82) in 1972. The conclusion is that the New England Journal of Medicine Project can be viewed as an endeavour which meets the need of students.", "PMID": 431422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_797", "title": "Behavioural self-analysis in the medical curriculum: a comparison of Malaysian and American experiences.", "content": "Behavioural self-analysis projects were introduced into the second year medical curriculum in behavioural sciences at the University of Malaya. Students performance and evaluation of the experience were compared with those of American medical students. It was concluded that receptivity of medical students to principles of behaviour therapy is relatively similar in the two societies.", "contents": "Behavioural self-analysis in the medical curriculum: a comparison of Malaysian and American experiences. Behavioural self-analysis projects were introduced into the second year medical curriculum in behavioural sciences at the University of Malaya. Students performance and evaluation of the experience were compared with those of American medical students. It was concluded that receptivity of medical students to principles of behaviour therapy is relatively similar in the two societies.", "PMID": 431423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_798", "title": "Monitoring and recording clinical trials.", "content": "A procedure based on the use of on-site monitoring has been developed for managing clinical testing programs. The procedure involves orientation meetings, forms specifically designed for good record-keeping, staff instruction, the establishment of normal laboratory values and criteria for patient selection, and prescribed monitoring functions. This procedure has proved successful in improving the performance of the physician-investigator, maintaining investigator interest, and enhancing the value of program results.", "contents": "Monitoring and recording clinical trials. A procedure based on the use of on-site monitoring has been developed for managing clinical testing programs. The procedure involves orientation meetings, forms specifically designed for good record-keeping, staff instruction, the establishment of normal laboratory values and criteria for patient selection, and prescribed monitoring functions. This procedure has proved successful in improving the performance of the physician-investigator, maintaining investigator interest, and enhancing the value of program results.", "PMID": 431427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_799", "title": "An automatic cardiac resuscitator for emergency treatment of cardiac arrest.", "content": "A new, portable, automatic resuscitator seeks respiratory signals and electrocardiogram of a victim in cardiac arrest through an intrapharyngeal sensor and a lingual-epigastric skin pathway. The resuscitator then assesses the status of the patient and delivers either an electric impulse to defibrillate or a pacing pulse, as indicated by an algorithmic logic circuit gated by respiratory rate and ECG. Field testing the device on 21 patients in ventricular fibrillation resulted in 35 successful conversions to sinus rhythm and 1 long-term survivor. Pacing was accomplished in two humans. Such a device has great potential for saving lives by eliminating crucial time now spent waiting for skilled help and equipment to arrive.", "contents": "An automatic cardiac resuscitator for emergency treatment of cardiac arrest. A new, portable, automatic resuscitator seeks respiratory signals and electrocardiogram of a victim in cardiac arrest through an intrapharyngeal sensor and a lingual-epigastric skin pathway. The resuscitator then assesses the status of the patient and delivers either an electric impulse to defibrillate or a pacing pulse, as indicated by an algorithmic logic circuit gated by respiratory rate and ECG. Field testing the device on 21 patients in ventricular fibrillation resulted in 35 successful conversions to sinus rhythm and 1 long-term survivor. Pacing was accomplished in two humans. Such a device has great potential for saving lives by eliminating crucial time now spent waiting for skilled help and equipment to arrive.", "PMID": 431428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_800", "title": "Safe and effective use of ethylene oxide.", "content": "Reports of potential hazards inherent in the use of ethylene oxide as a sterilant have inspired repeated inquiries and concern. Thus we publish herein two items to help clarify aspects of the safe and effective use of this sterilant. These should be disseminated among all hospital sterilization unit personnel.", "contents": "Safe and effective use of ethylene oxide. Reports of potential hazards inherent in the use of ethylene oxide as a sterilant have inspired repeated inquiries and concern. Thus we publish herein two items to help clarify aspects of the safe and effective use of this sterilant. These should be disseminated among all hospital sterilization unit personnel.", "PMID": 431425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_801", "title": "Oculoplethysmography and carotid phonoangiography for the noninvasive detection of extracranial carotid occlusive disease.", "content": "Clinical applications of imaging techniques and noninvasive physiological vascular evaluations provide useful assistance in the detection and management of stroke-prone patients by minimizing unnecessary carotid arteriography and surgery. Two such evaluation techniques are oculoplethysmography (OPG) and carotid phonoangiography (CPA). Developed, used, and proved highly reliable at the Tucson (Arizona) Medical Center, the techniques have been documented in 12,000 tests on approximately 8500 patients. OPG simultaneously records the bilateral ocular pulses concomitantly with external carotid pulses. Delays in timing of these pulses reflect reduction of flow in the internal and/or external carotid arteries, respectively. CPA consists of electronic stethoscopic auscultation, direct visualization, and photographic recording of carotid bruits or blood flow sounds.", "contents": "Oculoplethysmography and carotid phonoangiography for the noninvasive detection of extracranial carotid occlusive disease. Clinical applications of imaging techniques and noninvasive physiological vascular evaluations provide useful assistance in the detection and management of stroke-prone patients by minimizing unnecessary carotid arteriography and surgery. Two such evaluation techniques are oculoplethysmography (OPG) and carotid phonoangiography (CPA). Developed, used, and proved highly reliable at the Tucson (Arizona) Medical Center, the techniques have been documented in 12,000 tests on approximately 8500 patients. OPG simultaneously records the bilateral ocular pulses concomitantly with external carotid pulses. Delays in timing of these pulses reflect reduction of flow in the internal and/or external carotid arteries, respectively. CPA consists of electronic stethoscopic auscultation, direct visualization, and photographic recording of carotid bruits or blood flow sounds.", "PMID": 431429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_802", "title": "Supraorbital Doppler evaluation in vascular surgery.", "content": "Directional Doppler examination of the supraorbital vessels is an effective, noninvasive method of evaluating patency of the internal carotid artery. In the presence of occlusive disease in the internal carotid artery, flow in the superficial temporal and frontal artery is reversed so that blood flows in a retrograde fashion into the orbit, providing valuable collateral circulation to the brain. Using these basic anatomical and physiological facts, the direction of arterial flow in the supraorbital vessels and the response to compression of the superficial temporal and facial arteries were measured with the directional Doppler. Evaluation of 125 carotid arteries in 63 patients by both arteriography and Doppler examination established an overall accuracy of 87 percent by the Doppler supraorbital test. This study demonstrated the value of carotid Doppler examination in the evaluation of extracranial cerebral circulation.", "contents": "Supraorbital Doppler evaluation in vascular surgery. Directional Doppler examination of the supraorbital vessels is an effective, noninvasive method of evaluating patency of the internal carotid artery. In the presence of occlusive disease in the internal carotid artery, flow in the superficial temporal and frontal artery is reversed so that blood flows in a retrograde fashion into the orbit, providing valuable collateral circulation to the brain. Using these basic anatomical and physiological facts, the direction of arterial flow in the supraorbital vessels and the response to compression of the superficial temporal and facial arteries were measured with the directional Doppler. Evaluation of 125 carotid arteries in 63 patients by both arteriography and Doppler examination established an overall accuracy of 87 percent by the Doppler supraorbital test. This study demonstrated the value of carotid Doppler examination in the evaluation of extracranial cerebral circulation.", "PMID": 431430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_803", "title": "\"Barbiturate burns\" caused by glutethimide.", "content": "A case of glutethimide overdose associated with skin lesions resembling burns is reported. These characteristic skin lesions are usually ascribed to barbiturates. Their aetiology, incidence, and association with other drugs and neurological disorders are discussed.", "contents": "\"Barbiturate burns\" caused by glutethimide. A case of glutethimide overdose associated with skin lesions resembling burns is reported. These characteristic skin lesions are usually ascribed to barbiturates. Their aetiology, incidence, and association with other drugs and neurological disorders are discussed.", "PMID": 431433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_804", "title": "Clinical application of electrical impedance for the study of arterial insufficiency.", "content": "A four-electrode impedance plethysmography containing a dedicated computer has been developed for evaluating arterial insufficiency in the clinical noninvasive vascular laboratory. Measurements obtained by the impedance plethysmograph were compared with measurements obtained by the Doppler ultrasound technique. Five case reports demonstrate that electrical impedance measurements can feasibly be obtained in the clinical setting and that the information is useful in treating patients with arterial insufficiency. Results indicate that electrical impedance data correlate better with the clinical symptoms reported by the patient than do the Doppler systolic pressure data. The impedance plethysmography measurements are particularly useful when considered in conjunction with the Doppler measurements.", "contents": "Clinical application of electrical impedance for the study of arterial insufficiency. A four-electrode impedance plethysmography containing a dedicated computer has been developed for evaluating arterial insufficiency in the clinical noninvasive vascular laboratory. Measurements obtained by the impedance plethysmograph were compared with measurements obtained by the Doppler ultrasound technique. Five case reports demonstrate that electrical impedance measurements can feasibly be obtained in the clinical setting and that the information is useful in treating patients with arterial insufficiency. Results indicate that electrical impedance data correlate better with the clinical symptoms reported by the patient than do the Doppler systolic pressure data. The impedance plethysmography measurements are particularly useful when considered in conjunction with the Doppler measurements.", "PMID": 431431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_805", "title": "Null cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.", "content": "Lymphocytes lacking receptors for sheep erythrocytes and surface immunoglobulin were present in the blood in large numbers at some stage in four cases of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (which included a mother and son), and formed a substantial proportion of the circulating lymphocytes in other cases. These null cells possessed receptors for mouse erythrocytes. Other B-cell markers were also found on these cells. Serial studies showed a great variation in the number of null cells during the course of the disease (which may be associated with treatment), suggesting variation in the the maturation of leukaemic cells, and indicating that the surface marker complement may not reflect the constitution of the cell undergoing the original malignant change.", "contents": "Null cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Lymphocytes lacking receptors for sheep erythrocytes and surface immunoglobulin were present in the blood in large numbers at some stage in four cases of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (which included a mother and son), and formed a substantial proportion of the circulating lymphocytes in other cases. These null cells possessed receptors for mouse erythrocytes. Other B-cell markers were also found on these cells. Serial studies showed a great variation in the number of null cells during the course of the disease (which may be associated with treatment), suggesting variation in the the maturation of leukaemic cells, and indicating that the surface marker complement may not reflect the constitution of the cell undergoing the original malignant change.", "PMID": 431434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_806", "title": "Intracranial abscess.", "content": "Thirty-one patients with intracranial abscess who were treated at Royal Perth Hospital during the past 10 years are reviewed. There were 17 males and 14 females with a mean age of 39.2 years. Fifteen deaths indicate an over-all mortality of 45%. However, the mortality was 62% in the first five years, and 39% during the latter five years. The clinical features of the patients are reviewed. Factors contributing to the high mortality were severe local and multisystem disease, delay in diagnosis and surgical drainage, and inappropriate or inadequate antibiotic therapy. The use of high doses of antibiotics is suggested and recommendations are made concerning appropriate regimens.", "contents": "Intracranial abscess. Thirty-one patients with intracranial abscess who were treated at Royal Perth Hospital during the past 10 years are reviewed. There were 17 males and 14 females with a mean age of 39.2 years. Fifteen deaths indicate an over-all mortality of 45%. However, the mortality was 62% in the first five years, and 39% during the latter five years. The clinical features of the patients are reviewed. Factors contributing to the high mortality were severe local and multisystem disease, delay in diagnosis and surgical drainage, and inappropriate or inadequate antibiotic therapy. The use of high doses of antibiotics is suggested and recommendations are made concerning appropriate regimens.", "PMID": 431435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_807", "title": "Clinical use of cefamandole: a new cephalosporin.", "content": "Cefamandole, a new cephalosporin derivative, has been used in treatment of six patients who had diminished renal function and respiratory infections, and of 14 patients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Infection was eliminated in all patients with respiratory infections, and in seven of the patients with UTI. No serious side effects were encountered and, even in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction, no reduction in renal function occurred.", "contents": "Clinical use of cefamandole: a new cephalosporin. Cefamandole, a new cephalosporin derivative, has been used in treatment of six patients who had diminished renal function and respiratory infections, and of 14 patients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Infection was eliminated in all patients with respiratory infections, and in seven of the patients with UTI. No serious side effects were encountered and, even in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction, no reduction in renal function occurred.", "PMID": 431451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_808", "title": "Clinical measurement of pain.", "content": "The problems of clinical measurement of pain are considered. Various adjuncts to the standard clinical interview are proposed. These are: written reports, visual analogue scales, McGill's Pain Assessment Questionnaire, and a weekly pain chart. The advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed. Correlations between various pain measures are shown. The use of the weekly pain chart by doctors is recommended in cases of chronic pain.", "contents": "Clinical measurement of pain. The problems of clinical measurement of pain are considered. Various adjuncts to the standard clinical interview are proposed. These are: written reports, visual analogue scales, McGill's Pain Assessment Questionnaire, and a weekly pain chart. The advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed. Correlations between various pain measures are shown. The use of the weekly pain chart by doctors is recommended in cases of chronic pain.", "PMID": 431452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_809", "title": "Infant strabismus: a 25-year review of 750 cases.", "content": "The review demonstrates that there is no justification for delay in treating babies who present with strabismus. A survey of 750 infants aged from 0 to 36 months among 5497 cases seen by an individual orthoptist over 25 years shows a decreasing use of surgery and an increasing proportion of fully functional results over this time. It emphasizes that no infant is too young for assessment and treatment.", "contents": "Infant strabismus: a 25-year review of 750 cases. The review demonstrates that there is no justification for delay in treating babies who present with strabismus. A survey of 750 infants aged from 0 to 36 months among 5497 cases seen by an individual orthoptist over 25 years shows a decreasing use of surgery and an increasing proportion of fully functional results over this time. It emphasizes that no infant is too young for assessment and treatment.", "PMID": 431453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_810", "title": "Protection of the eyes against damage by light activated psoralen.", "content": "It is current practice to order eye protection while patients are under treatment with psoralen. There is considerable variation in the protection against long wave light provided by different sunglasses, therefore, it is necessary to write a specific prescription for sunglasses for these patients. We have found Noir Model 102 or 109 with side flaps or the Rayban dark green glass to be the most effective.", "contents": "Protection of the eyes against damage by light activated psoralen. It is current practice to order eye protection while patients are under treatment with psoralen. There is considerable variation in the protection against long wave light provided by different sunglasses, therefore, it is necessary to write a specific prescription for sunglasses for these patients. We have found Noir Model 102 or 109 with side flaps or the Rayban dark green glass to be the most effective.", "PMID": 431454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_811", "title": "Laryngeal cancer and alcohol consumption in Australia.", "content": "Whereas lung cancer is strongly associated with cigarette smoking, and upper alimentary tract cancers with both alcohol and cigarettes, the situation has been less clear-cut for laryngeal cancer. This century's time trends in laryngeal cancer death rates in Australia follow those of oesophageal cancer rather than lung cancer. Further, the trends correlate with those for alcohol consumption rather than cigarette consumption. The separate analyses of trends in age-specific death rates for men and women reveal a pattern of laryngeal cancer risk variation between successive generations which is consistent with a causal role of alcohol consumption. Biological mechanisms, and synergism, between alcohol and cigarette consumption are discussed.", "contents": "Laryngeal cancer and alcohol consumption in Australia. Whereas lung cancer is strongly associated with cigarette smoking, and upper alimentary tract cancers with both alcohol and cigarettes, the situation has been less clear-cut for laryngeal cancer. This century's time trends in laryngeal cancer death rates in Australia follow those of oesophageal cancer rather than lung cancer. Further, the trends correlate with those for alcohol consumption rather than cigarette consumption. The separate analyses of trends in age-specific death rates for men and women reveal a pattern of laryngeal cancer risk variation between successive generations which is consistent with a causal role of alcohol consumption. Biological mechanisms, and synergism, between alcohol and cigarette consumption are discussed.", "PMID": 431465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_812", "title": "Mebendazole therapy of whipworm infestation: a clinical trial.", "content": "Mebendazole, a new broad-spectrum oral anthelmintic for nematodes, was given to patients harboring whipworm in a hospital for the mentally retarded. A three-day regimen (100 mg twice a day) dewormed 75% of the subjects, a five-day regimen cured 95%. The remaining patients excreted strikingly lesser amounts of the parasites' eggs after therapy. No untoward effects were noted clinically. It is the drug of choice in mixed worm infestations.", "contents": "Mebendazole therapy of whipworm infestation: a clinical trial. Mebendazole, a new broad-spectrum oral anthelmintic for nematodes, was given to patients harboring whipworm in a hospital for the mentally retarded. A three-day regimen (100 mg twice a day) dewormed 75% of the subjects, a five-day regimen cured 95%. The remaining patients excreted strikingly lesser amounts of the parasites' eggs after therapy. No untoward effects were noted clinically. It is the drug of choice in mixed worm infestations.", "PMID": 431466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_813", "title": "Acute glomerulonephritis in an adult with infected ventriculoatrial shunt.", "content": "A case of acute glomerulonephritis occurring during Staphylococcus albus infection of a ventriculoatrial shunt is described. It is the first case in which renal biopsy was repeated after clinical cure by shunt removal. This indicates that isolated haematuria and some histopathological changes may persist for at least a year.", "contents": "Acute glomerulonephritis in an adult with infected ventriculoatrial shunt. A case of acute glomerulonephritis occurring during Staphylococcus albus infection of a ventriculoatrial shunt is described. It is the first case in which renal biopsy was repeated after clinical cure by shunt removal. This indicates that isolated haematuria and some histopathological changes may persist for at least a year.", "PMID": 431467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_814", "title": "[Spontaneous coronary spasm with reversible occlusion of the left coronary artery: a case report (author's transl)].", "content": "A spontaneous coronary spasm with a complete but reversible occlusion of the left coronary artery could be demonstrated by coronary arteriography in a patient with angina pectoris at rest and during exercise. This will prove that spasms of coronary arteries can cause angina pectoris or even acute myocardial infarction if the spasm is persisting for long enough and if there is no sufficient supply by collateral vessels. This can be a possible reason for akinesia or dyskinesia of the left ventricle associated with normal or near normal coronary arteries.", "contents": "[Spontaneous coronary spasm with reversible occlusion of the left coronary artery: a case report (author's transl)]. A spontaneous coronary spasm with a complete but reversible occlusion of the left coronary artery could be demonstrated by coronary arteriography in a patient with angina pectoris at rest and during exercise. This will prove that spasms of coronary arteries can cause angina pectoris or even acute myocardial infarction if the spasm is persisting for long enough and if there is no sufficient supply by collateral vessels. This can be a possible reason for akinesia or dyskinesia of the left ventricle associated with normal or near normal coronary arteries.", "PMID": 431468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_815", "title": "[Sensitivity of creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB in myocardial infarction. Evaluation of a new optimized standard method (author's transl)].", "content": "In 70 patients with confirmed transmural myocardial infarction the sensitivity of creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB at different times after admission was investigated by 364 measurements. Beside the number of correctly positive results the optimized standard method hitherto used was compared with the new optimized standard method with N-acetylcystein as activator. During the first 12 hours after admission the percentage of correctly positive results was 64,4% for creatine kinase (GSH) and 86,7% for creatine kinase (NAC). The sensitivity of cretine kinase MB, however, was found to be 71,1% (GSH) and 86,7% (NAC). With respect to the poor specifity of creatine kinase the sensitivity of creatine kinase MB, especially when using the new optimized standard method is superior. Similar results were established 24 and 48 hours after admission. Creatine kinase MB only fails in detection of myocardial infarction if the stroke is older than 3 days or if the enzyme activity determination intervals are too long.", "contents": "[Sensitivity of creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB in myocardial infarction. Evaluation of a new optimized standard method (author's transl)]. In 70 patients with confirmed transmural myocardial infarction the sensitivity of creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB at different times after admission was investigated by 364 measurements. Beside the number of correctly positive results the optimized standard method hitherto used was compared with the new optimized standard method with N-acetylcystein as activator. During the first 12 hours after admission the percentage of correctly positive results was 64,4% for creatine kinase (GSH) and 86,7% for creatine kinase (NAC). The sensitivity of cretine kinase MB, however, was found to be 71,1% (GSH) and 86,7% (NAC). With respect to the poor specifity of creatine kinase the sensitivity of creatine kinase MB, especially when using the new optimized standard method is superior. Similar results were established 24 and 48 hours after admission. Creatine kinase MB only fails in detection of myocardial infarction if the stroke is older than 3 days or if the enzyme activity determination intervals are too long.", "PMID": 431469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_816", "title": "[Infections in man induced by Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 09 and 04 (author's transl)].", "content": "Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 09 was isolated from stool specimens of two patients suffering from serious enteritis and pseudo-appendicitis, respectively. Both patients exhibited high titers of serum-agglutinins against the isolated strains. The Widal reaction against brucella-antigens was also found positive. In addition, the isolation of Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 04 from a suppurating wound is reported.", "contents": "[Infections in man induced by Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 09 and 04 (author's transl)]. Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 09 was isolated from stool specimens of two patients suffering from serious enteritis and pseudo-appendicitis, respectively. Both patients exhibited high titers of serum-agglutinins against the isolated strains. The Widal reaction against brucella-antigens was also found positive. In addition, the isolation of Yersinia enterocolitica serovar 04 from a suppurating wound is reported.", "PMID": 431474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_817", "title": "[Penetration activities of cefoxitin into different human tissues. An experimental study (author's transl)].", "content": "Subject of the following study was the penetration activity of cefoxitin into different human tissues. The authors obtained material of the cutis, subcutis, fascia, muscle, spongy bone and compact bone during orthopedic surgery on 20 patients. Cefoxitin was administered by means of a continual infusion of a dose of 45 mg per kg body weight per hour. Tissue and serum levels were studied after infusions lasting 15, 60, 90 and 120 minutes. Altogether the results of 215 specimens of serum and 132 specimens of tissue are recorded. The evaluation showed the following mean tissue levels of cefoxitin: 6.6 micrograms/g in compact bone; 14.4 micrograms/g in spongy bone; 23.3 micrograms/g in muscle; 64.2 micrograms/g in fascia, 69.9 micrograms/g in cutis and 21.7 micrograms/g in subcutis.", "contents": "[Penetration activities of cefoxitin into different human tissues. An experimental study (author's transl)]. Subject of the following study was the penetration activity of cefoxitin into different human tissues. The authors obtained material of the cutis, subcutis, fascia, muscle, spongy bone and compact bone during orthopedic surgery on 20 patients. Cefoxitin was administered by means of a continual infusion of a dose of 45 mg per kg body weight per hour. Tissue and serum levels were studied after infusions lasting 15, 60, 90 and 120 minutes. Altogether the results of 215 specimens of serum and 132 specimens of tissue are recorded. The evaluation showed the following mean tissue levels of cefoxitin: 6.6 micrograms/g in compact bone; 14.4 micrograms/g in spongy bone; 23.3 micrograms/g in muscle; 64.2 micrograms/g in fascia, 69.9 micrograms/g in cutis and 21.7 micrograms/g in subcutis.", "PMID": 431475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_818", "title": "Influenza virus infection of the guinea pig: immune response and resistance.", "content": "Guinea pigs were inoculated by intranasal inoculation with unadapted, influenza virus A/England/42/72, and virus was recovered from nasal washings between 3 and 10 days post-inoculation. Infected animals did not exhibit a febrile response to infection, did not produce local antibody and produced only relatively low levels of serum antibody. However, they developed delayed-type hypersensitivity to influenza virus, demonstrable by both skin tests and macrophage migration inhibition tests, which was similar to that of man. The relevance of the influenza virus specific delayed hypersensitivity in immunity to infection was examined in this model. Guinea pigs previously infected with virus or passively immunized with hyperimmune serum were relatively resistant to reinfection with influenza virus A/England/42/72. Inoculation of guinea pigs with spleen cells from immune donor animals, together with or without immune serum, did not give or enhance resistance to challenge virus infection. The results do not suggest a role for delayed hypersensitivity response in immunity to influenza virus infection.", "contents": "Influenza virus infection of the guinea pig: immune response and resistance. Guinea pigs were inoculated by intranasal inoculation with unadapted, influenza virus A/England/42/72, and virus was recovered from nasal washings between 3 and 10 days post-inoculation. Infected animals did not exhibit a febrile response to infection, did not produce local antibody and produced only relatively low levels of serum antibody. However, they developed delayed-type hypersensitivity to influenza virus, demonstrable by both skin tests and macrophage migration inhibition tests, which was similar to that of man. The relevance of the influenza virus specific delayed hypersensitivity in immunity to infection was examined in this model. Guinea pigs previously infected with virus or passively immunized with hyperimmune serum were relatively resistant to reinfection with influenza virus A/England/42/72. Inoculation of guinea pigs with spleen cells from immune donor animals, together with or without immune serum, did not give or enhance resistance to challenge virus infection. The results do not suggest a role for delayed hypersensitivity response in immunity to influenza virus infection.", "PMID": 431488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_819", "title": "Measurement of regional cerebral blood flow by intravenous injection of Xe133.", "content": "Clearance of Xenon 133 following intravenous injection has been used to perform atraumatic measurements of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). rCBF was computed by a two-compartmental analysis of the clearance curves associated with a correction for Xenon recirculation based on the end-tidal tracer concentration. Direct comparison was made between the results of this method and those obtained from the reference intracarotid method. A systematic analysis has shown that the results of the non-invasive method depend on the part of the clearance curves chosen for computation of rCBF. The best concordance with the intra-carotid method was found when the analysed part of the curve was situated between 3 and 11 min. after the beginning of the injection. Under these conditions, the differences between the results from the two methods did not exceed 10% of the flow values even for low flows. Such precision makes the atraumatic measurements of rCBF by intravenous injection of Xenon valuable for clinical applications.", "contents": "Measurement of regional cerebral blood flow by intravenous injection of Xe133. Clearance of Xenon 133 following intravenous injection has been used to perform atraumatic measurements of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). rCBF was computed by a two-compartmental analysis of the clearance curves associated with a correction for Xenon recirculation based on the end-tidal tracer concentration. Direct comparison was made between the results of this method and those obtained from the reference intracarotid method. A systematic analysis has shown that the results of the non-invasive method depend on the part of the clearance curves chosen for computation of rCBF. The best concordance with the intra-carotid method was found when the analysed part of the curve was situated between 3 and 11 min. after the beginning of the injection. Under these conditions, the differences between the results from the two methods did not exceed 10% of the flow values even for low flows. Such precision makes the atraumatic measurements of rCBF by intravenous injection of Xenon valuable for clinical applications.", "PMID": 431507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_820", "title": "Recognition of the pattern in ultrasonic sectional pictures of the prostate for tumor diagnosis.", "content": "To diagnose tumorous alterations of the prostate, we examined the organ with ultrasonics by scanning directly from the abdominal wall through the filled bladder (transvesical). The research is aimed at: 1) improvement and mathematical preparation of the ultrasonic pictures to assist the physician in his diagnosis. 2) ascertainment of significant parameters which allow the classes \"normal prostate\", \"adenoma\" and \"carcinoma\" to be distinguished in screening examinations. The results show that with ultrasonics, adenomas and carcinomas are recognizable in 96% of the examined patients and can be differentiated from normal prostate tissue. The palpation finding was used as a reference in most cases.", "contents": "Recognition of the pattern in ultrasonic sectional pictures of the prostate for tumor diagnosis. To diagnose tumorous alterations of the prostate, we examined the organ with ultrasonics by scanning directly from the abdominal wall through the filled bladder (transvesical). The research is aimed at: 1) improvement and mathematical preparation of the ultrasonic pictures to assist the physician in his diagnosis. 2) ascertainment of significant parameters which allow the classes \"normal prostate\", \"adenoma\" and \"carcinoma\" to be distinguished in screening examinations. The results show that with ultrasonics, adenomas and carcinomas are recognizable in 96% of the examined patients and can be differentiated from normal prostate tissue. The palpation finding was used as a reference in most cases.", "PMID": 431508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_821", "title": "Sensory feedback for artificial limbs.", "content": "Over the years various approaches have been made to help solve the problem of replacing mechanical function of a lost limb, but there has been little direct interest in the associated problem of replacing the sensory function also lost in the amputation. Psychological rejection of electrically powered hands (despite their good cosmesis) suggests that greater attention should be given to the provision of sensory feedback on artificial limbs. Myoelectrically controlled electric hands fitted with a sense of touch have been fitted to two patients and in a nine month trial period they reported favourably on these fittings. There has not been any adverse skin reaction to the application of the electrical feedback stimulus and the patients say that because of the feedback they have an increased level of confidence in using the prosthesis.", "contents": "Sensory feedback for artificial limbs. Over the years various approaches have been made to help solve the problem of replacing mechanical function of a lost limb, but there has been little direct interest in the associated problem of replacing the sensory function also lost in the amputation. Psychological rejection of electrically powered hands (despite their good cosmesis) suggests that greater attention should be given to the provision of sensory feedback on artificial limbs. Myoelectrically controlled electric hands fitted with a sense of touch have been fitted to two patients and in a nine month trial period they reported favourably on these fittings. There has not been any adverse skin reaction to the application of the electrical feedback stimulus and the patients say that because of the feedback they have an increased level of confidence in using the prosthesis.", "PMID": 431509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_822", "title": "[Comparative electron microscopic studies on benign liver tumors and jaundice associated with contraceptive drugs].", "content": "Author compared the ultrastructure of the hepatic tissue in 6 cases with benign hepatic tumours revealed in women taking oral contraceptives and in 3 cases with icterus. The majority of the ultrastructural changes were alike in cases with- or without tumours. Deposition of filamentous material of unknown nature in the biliar canaliculi and Disse-space associated with the damage to the cell membrane author believes to have a significance. Ultrastructure of the sinusoid endothel indicate an increased protein synthesis. The most striking feature of the tumours: formation of continuous capillaries in the place of sinusoids. Author emphasizes that systematic electron microscopic studies may contribute to our knowledge concerning the question of the effect of oral contraceptives on hepatic cells.", "contents": "[Comparative electron microscopic studies on benign liver tumors and jaundice associated with contraceptive drugs]. Author compared the ultrastructure of the hepatic tissue in 6 cases with benign hepatic tumours revealed in women taking oral contraceptives and in 3 cases with icterus. The majority of the ultrastructural changes were alike in cases with- or without tumours. Deposition of filamentous material of unknown nature in the biliar canaliculi and Disse-space associated with the damage to the cell membrane author believes to have a significance. Ultrastructure of the sinusoid endothel indicate an increased protein synthesis. The most striking feature of the tumours: formation of continuous capillaries in the place of sinusoids. Author emphasizes that systematic electron microscopic studies may contribute to our knowledge concerning the question of the effect of oral contraceptives on hepatic cells.", "PMID": 431539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_823", "title": "[Changes in the nucleus ruber in 3-acetyl pryridine poisoning following unilateral ligation of the carotid artery].", "content": "A single-approximately LD50-dosis of the 3-AP given to white rats following the unilateral ligature of the carotid artery in almost 70 percent of the animals caused hydropic-vacuolic degeneration and cell necrosis in the nucleus ruber. Similar changes were quite infrequent in the mesenphalic nuclei. The regressiv changes can be prevented by nicotinamid. When smaller doses are given they do not occur at all. Electronmicroscopic findings help to explain some aspects of the pathogenesis of these rather selective changes.", "contents": "[Changes in the nucleus ruber in 3-acetyl pryridine poisoning following unilateral ligation of the carotid artery]. A single-approximately LD50-dosis of the 3-AP given to white rats following the unilateral ligature of the carotid artery in almost 70 percent of the animals caused hydropic-vacuolic degeneration and cell necrosis in the nucleus ruber. Similar changes were quite infrequent in the mesenphalic nuclei. The regressiv changes can be prevented by nicotinamid. When smaller doses are given they do not occur at all. Electronmicroscopic findings help to explain some aspects of the pathogenesis of these rather selective changes.", "PMID": 431540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_824", "title": "[Demonstration of hypnotic agents in bone tissue].", "content": "Investigating the skeletons of 25 suicide victims the authors have found that the toxic materials taken can rather comfortably and safely be detected in the compactbony substance. Especially important that the poisonous drug residues can remain in the bones for a long time, even for years after death.", "contents": "[Demonstration of hypnotic agents in bone tissue]. Investigating the skeletons of 25 suicide victims the authors have found that the toxic materials taken can rather comfortably and safely be detected in the compactbony substance. Especially important that the poisonous drug residues can remain in the bones for a long time, even for years after death.", "PMID": 431541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_825", "title": "[Sudden death due to unusual developmental anomaly of the coronary artery].", "content": "In a case of the sudden death of a child, parents were suspected of negligence. At the autopsy anomaly of the coronary artery as the cause of severe damage to myocard and sudden death was revealed.", "contents": "[Sudden death due to unusual developmental anomaly of the coronary artery]. In a case of the sudden death of a child, parents were suspected of negligence. At the autopsy anomaly of the coronary artery as the cause of severe damage to myocard and sudden death was revealed.", "PMID": 431542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_826", "title": "Timing of oocyte maturation in the mouse and its relevance to radiation-induced cell killing and mutational sensitivity.", "content": "Timing oocyte development by labeling the zona pellucida indicates that it takes 6 weeks (possibly a few days more) for a stage 3b oocyte to reach ovulation. Thus the shift in mutation frequency with time after irradiation occurs in an oocyte stage that is comparable in all mammals so far investigated, and in the mouse low-mutational sensitivity is not restricted to the arrested dictyate oocyte stage. Some oocytes with nuclear morphology similar to the arrested human oocytes give low mutation rates. Degree of chromosome condensation in early oocytes does not appear to be a reliable criterion of oocyte sensitivity to either cell killing or mutation induction, and genetic data on mouse oocytes may be more generally applicable than commonly thought.", "contents": "Timing of oocyte maturation in the mouse and its relevance to radiation-induced cell killing and mutational sensitivity. Timing oocyte development by labeling the zona pellucida indicates that it takes 6 weeks (possibly a few days more) for a stage 3b oocyte to reach ovulation. Thus the shift in mutation frequency with time after irradiation occurs in an oocyte stage that is comparable in all mammals so far investigated, and in the mouse low-mutational sensitivity is not restricted to the arrested dictyate oocyte stage. Some oocytes with nuclear morphology similar to the arrested human oocytes give low mutation rates. Degree of chromosome condensation in early oocytes does not appear to be a reliable criterion of oocyte sensitivity to either cell killing or mutation induction, and genetic data on mouse oocytes may be more generally applicable than commonly thought.", "PMID": 431550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_827", "title": "Effects of DNA damaging agents on cultured fibroblasts derived from patients with Cockayne syndrome.", "content": "The cytotoxic action of physical and chemical agents on 10 skin fibroblast strains in culture derived from individuals with Cockayne's syndrome was measured in terms of colony-forming ability. As compared to fibroblasts from normal donors, all Cockayne cell strains tested exhibited a significantly increased sensitivity to UV light and a normal sensitivity to X-rays. Cells from two sets of parents of unrelated Cockayne children showed an intermediate level of UV sensitivity. There was no effect of 0.5 mM caffeine on UV survival in normal and two Cockayne strains tested, indicating that postreplicational repair in Cockayne cells as measured by caffeine sensitivity was probably normal. Sensitivity of normal and Cockayne cells to the chemical carcinogens and mutagens 4NQO, N-AcO-AAF, ICR-170 and EMS was also compared. An increased sensitivity of Cockayne cells to 4NQO or N-AcO-AAF, but not the ICR-170 or EMS, was observed. However, unlike the intermediate UV sensitivity, the cell strains from two parents of Cockayne patients showed the same sensitivity to N-AcO-AAF or 4NQO as fibroblasts from normal individuals. Quantiation of damage to the DNA after 20 J . m-2 UV irradiation indicates normal levels of [3H] thymidine incorporation in the Cockayne cells, in contrast to UV-irradiated xeroderma pigmentosum cells (XP 12BE) in which there was a very low level of repari synthesis. Moreover, we have shown previously that excision of UV-induced pyrimidine dimers in 2 of the 10 Cockayne cell strains was normal.", "contents": "Effects of DNA damaging agents on cultured fibroblasts derived from patients with Cockayne syndrome. The cytotoxic action of physical and chemical agents on 10 skin fibroblast strains in culture derived from individuals with Cockayne's syndrome was measured in terms of colony-forming ability. As compared to fibroblasts from normal donors, all Cockayne cell strains tested exhibited a significantly increased sensitivity to UV light and a normal sensitivity to X-rays. Cells from two sets of parents of unrelated Cockayne children showed an intermediate level of UV sensitivity. There was no effect of 0.5 mM caffeine on UV survival in normal and two Cockayne strains tested, indicating that postreplicational repair in Cockayne cells as measured by caffeine sensitivity was probably normal. Sensitivity of normal and Cockayne cells to the chemical carcinogens and mutagens 4NQO, N-AcO-AAF, ICR-170 and EMS was also compared. An increased sensitivity of Cockayne cells to 4NQO or N-AcO-AAF, but not the ICR-170 or EMS, was observed. However, unlike the intermediate UV sensitivity, the cell strains from two parents of Cockayne patients showed the same sensitivity to N-AcO-AAF or 4NQO as fibroblasts from normal individuals. Quantiation of damage to the DNA after 20 J . m-2 UV irradiation indicates normal levels of [3H] thymidine incorporation in the Cockayne cells, in contrast to UV-irradiated xeroderma pigmentosum cells (XP 12BE) in which there was a very low level of repari synthesis. Moreover, we have shown previously that excision of UV-induced pyrimidine dimers in 2 of the 10 Cockayne cell strains was normal.", "PMID": 431551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_828", "title": "Translocation yield from mouse spermatogonial stem cells following unequal-sized x-ray fractionations: evidence of radiation-induced loss of heterogeneity.", "content": "Previous work has shown that a high yield of genetic damage can be recovered from stem spermatogonia exposed to a high (900 R) X-ray dose, despite extensive cell killing, when this follows 24 h after a smaller (100 R) radiation exposure. This differs from the response of the normal stem-cell population and has been interpreted to mean that the more radio-resistant cells surviving the first exposure become sensitive both to radiation-induced killing and genetic damage after this time interval and, as a consequence, lose the heterogeneity in radio-sensitivity that typifies a normal stem-cell population. Similar results have now been obtained with doses of 600 and 800 R given in fractions of 100 + 500 R and 100 + 700 R 24 h apart. Yields of translocations among spermatocytes were higher than obtained with the single doses and responses consistent with the fractions acting additively were obtained when the fractions were given in reverse order. Further analyses of the data provided support for the concept that 24 h after a radiation exposure there is a loss of heterogeneity in radio-sensitivity in the surviving stem-cell population.", "contents": "Translocation yield from mouse spermatogonial stem cells following unequal-sized x-ray fractionations: evidence of radiation-induced loss of heterogeneity. Previous work has shown that a high yield of genetic damage can be recovered from stem spermatogonia exposed to a high (900 R) X-ray dose, despite extensive cell killing, when this follows 24 h after a smaller (100 R) radiation exposure. This differs from the response of the normal stem-cell population and has been interpreted to mean that the more radio-resistant cells surviving the first exposure become sensitive both to radiation-induced killing and genetic damage after this time interval and, as a consequence, lose the heterogeneity in radio-sensitivity that typifies a normal stem-cell population. Similar results have now been obtained with doses of 600 and 800 R given in fractions of 100 + 500 R and 100 + 700 R 24 h apart. Yields of translocations among spermatocytes were higher than obtained with the single doses and responses consistent with the fractions acting additively were obtained when the fractions were given in reverse order. Further analyses of the data provided support for the concept that 24 h after a radiation exposure there is a loss of heterogeneity in radio-sensitivity in the surviving stem-cell population.", "PMID": 431554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_829", "title": "Cell-cycle dependency of BUdR-induced mutation for six genetic markers in cultured mammalian cells.", "content": "Synchronized mouse L5178Y cells were treated with BUdR during each one of four sequential periods of the cell cycle (M-G1, early S, middle S and late S-G2). Among the 6 markers examined, asparagine independence (Asn+), 6-thioguanine resistance (TGr) and excess thymidine resistance (TdRr) showed maximal induction of mutation rates in the early S period, methotrexate resistance (MTXr) gave maximal induction during the middle S period, and two other markers [arabinosylcytosine resistance (Ara-Cr) and ouabain resistance (Ouar)] showed little mutation induction in any period under the experimental conditions. These results suggest that (i) genes responsible for Asn+, TGr and TdRr activity may be replicated in the early S period and the gene for MTXr activity replicated in the middle S period, and (ii) the mechanisms of mutation induction for the Ouar and Ara-Cr markers may be essentially different from those for the Asn+, TGr, TdRr and MTXr markers.", "contents": "Cell-cycle dependency of BUdR-induced mutation for six genetic markers in cultured mammalian cells. Synchronized mouse L5178Y cells were treated with BUdR during each one of four sequential periods of the cell cycle (M-G1, early S, middle S and late S-G2). Among the 6 markers examined, asparagine independence (Asn+), 6-thioguanine resistance (TGr) and excess thymidine resistance (TdRr) showed maximal induction of mutation rates in the early S period, methotrexate resistance (MTXr) gave maximal induction during the middle S period, and two other markers [arabinosylcytosine resistance (Ara-Cr) and ouabain resistance (Ouar)] showed little mutation induction in any period under the experimental conditions. These results suggest that (i) genes responsible for Asn+, TGr and TdRr activity may be replicated in the early S period and the gene for MTXr activity replicated in the middle S period, and (ii) the mechanisms of mutation induction for the Ouar and Ara-Cr markers may be essentially different from those for the Asn+, TGr, TdRr and MTXr markers.", "PMID": 431555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_830", "title": "Failure of caffeine to influence induced mutation frequencies and the independence of cell killing and mutation induction in V79 Chinese hamster cells.", "content": "Using V79 Chinese hamster cells and a replating assay, no effect of caffeine post-treatment on spontaneous or UV- or EMS-induced mutation frequencies to 8-azaguanine resistance was demonstrable. However, considerable potentiation of cell killing was observed. Previous reports that caffeine enhances induced mutation frequencies are explained by an artefact in the situ method used; a similar artefact may also explain the cumulative in situ mutation dose-response curves. Furthermore, the relationship between mutation induction and dose has been shown to be qualitatively distinct from that between cell killing and dose. These differences suggest that cell killing and mutation induction are mediated via independent mechanisms and that pre-mutational lesions may be qualitatively distinct from pre-lethal lesions.", "contents": "Failure of caffeine to influence induced mutation frequencies and the independence of cell killing and mutation induction in V79 Chinese hamster cells. Using V79 Chinese hamster cells and a replating assay, no effect of caffeine post-treatment on spontaneous or UV- or EMS-induced mutation frequencies to 8-azaguanine resistance was demonstrable. However, considerable potentiation of cell killing was observed. Previous reports that caffeine enhances induced mutation frequencies are explained by an artefact in the situ method used; a similar artefact may also explain the cumulative in situ mutation dose-response curves. Furthermore, the relationship between mutation induction and dose has been shown to be qualitatively distinct from that between cell killing and dose. These differences suggest that cell killing and mutation induction are mediated via independent mechanisms and that pre-mutational lesions may be qualitatively distinct from pre-lethal lesions.", "PMID": 431556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_831", "title": "Cytogenetic investigation of occupational exposure to epichlorohydrin.", "content": "Cytogenetic evaluation of peripheral lymphocytes from 93 workers currently exposed to epichlorohydrin has revealed an increase in aberration rates as compared to that of a 75-person group seen for preemployment examination. Statistically significant differences were found in the distribution of individuals with chromatid breaks, chromosome breaks, severely damaged cells, and total abnormal cells. These results confirm the observations of Kucerova et al. in a similar occupational group.", "contents": "Cytogenetic investigation of occupational exposure to epichlorohydrin. Cytogenetic evaluation of peripheral lymphocytes from 93 workers currently exposed to epichlorohydrin has revealed an increase in aberration rates as compared to that of a 75-person group seen for preemployment examination. Statistically significant differences were found in the distribution of individuals with chromatid breaks, chromosome breaks, severely damaged cells, and total abnormal cells. These results confirm the observations of Kucerova et al. in a similar occupational group.", "PMID": 431557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_832", "title": "Prenatal diagnosis of classic hemophilia.", "content": "Prenatal diagnosis of classic hemophilia (hemophilia A) in mid-trimester was achieved by means of immunoradiometric assays for factor VIII on fetal plasma and amniotic-fluid mixtures obtained by fetoscopy. Samples were analyzed from six male fetuses at risk for severe hemophilia and from nine control fetuses for which fetoscopy was carried out to attempt prenatal diagnosis of other genetic disorders. The factor VIII coagulant-antigen values for the control (non-hemophilic) samples were 17 to 94, and the factor VIII related-antigen concentrations were 50 to 155 U per deciliter. Three of the fetuses at risk for hemophilia had factor VIII values in the control range, and these infants were normal at birth. The other three fetuses had low concentrations of factor VIII coagulant antigen but normal concentrations of factor VIII related antigen. These values and the diagnoses of severe hemophilia were confirmed with blood from the abortuses.", "contents": "Prenatal diagnosis of classic hemophilia. Prenatal diagnosis of classic hemophilia (hemophilia A) in mid-trimester was achieved by means of immunoradiometric assays for factor VIII on fetal plasma and amniotic-fluid mixtures obtained by fetoscopy. Samples were analyzed from six male fetuses at risk for severe hemophilia and from nine control fetuses for which fetoscopy was carried out to attempt prenatal diagnosis of other genetic disorders. The factor VIII coagulant-antigen values for the control (non-hemophilic) samples were 17 to 94, and the factor VIII related-antigen concentrations were 50 to 155 U per deciliter. Three of the fetuses at risk for hemophilia had factor VIII values in the control range, and these infants were normal at birth. The other three fetuses had low concentrations of factor VIII coagulant antigen but normal concentrations of factor VIII related antigen. These values and the diagnoses of severe hemophilia were confirmed with blood from the abortuses.", "PMID": 431560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_833", "title": "Non-diabetic retinal abnormalities in chronic pancreatitis.", "content": "To determine whether retinal abnormalities occur in patients with chronic pancreatitis, ophthalmoscopic and retinal-function evaluation was performed in 28 patients with chronic pancreatitis and 19 healthy subjects. The final threshold of dark adaptation was significantly increased 40 per cent (P less than 0.001) in patients with pancreatitis, whether or not they had steatorrhea. Patients with steatorrhea had a significant decrease of about 42 per cent (P less than 0.001) in the b-wave of the electroretinogram, a measure of both rod and cone function. Seven of the 28 patients complained of difficulty with hight vision; six of these seven had morphologic lesions on ophthalmoscopic examination, confirmed by fluorescein angiography. No correlation was found between any of the retinal abnormalities and the serum vitamin A or zinc levels or glucose tolerance. Non-diabetic retinal lesions and retinal-function abnormalities are common in patients with chronic pancreatitis, even in the absence of steatorrhea.", "contents": "Non-diabetic retinal abnormalities in chronic pancreatitis. To determine whether retinal abnormalities occur in patients with chronic pancreatitis, ophthalmoscopic and retinal-function evaluation was performed in 28 patients with chronic pancreatitis and 19 healthy subjects. The final threshold of dark adaptation was significantly increased 40 per cent (P less than 0.001) in patients with pancreatitis, whether or not they had steatorrhea. Patients with steatorrhea had a significant decrease of about 42 per cent (P less than 0.001) in the b-wave of the electroretinogram, a measure of both rod and cone function. Seven of the 28 patients complained of difficulty with hight vision; six of these seven had morphologic lesions on ophthalmoscopic examination, confirmed by fluorescein angiography. No correlation was found between any of the retinal abnormalities and the serum vitamin A or zinc levels or glucose tolerance. Non-diabetic retinal lesions and retinal-function abnormalities are common in patients with chronic pancreatitis, even in the absence of steatorrhea.", "PMID": 431561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_834", "title": "Clinical implications of sickle-cell trait and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in hospitalized black male patients.", "content": "To determine whether sickle-cell trait and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency influence the course and fatality rates of certain diseases requiring hospitalization, especially those associated with thrombotic phenomena, we conducted a co-operative study of 65,154 consecutively admitted, black male patients in 13 Veterans Administration hospitals. The overall frequency of sickle-cell trait was 7.8 per cent and of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase dificiency 11.2 per cent. Both conditions were present in 0.9 per cent of those examined. There were regional, but no age-dependent, differences in the frequency of sickle-cell trait. Sickle-cell trait had no effect on average age at hospitalization or death, overall mortality, length of hospitalization on medical and surgical wards and frequency of any diagnosis, except essential hematuria and pulmonary embolism. Although statistically significant (P less than 0.001), the differences for the latter were small (1.5 per cent of all patients with normal hemoglobin and 2.2 per cent of patients with sickle-cell trait). Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency had no adverse effect.", "contents": "Clinical implications of sickle-cell trait and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in hospitalized black male patients. To determine whether sickle-cell trait and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency influence the course and fatality rates of certain diseases requiring hospitalization, especially those associated with thrombotic phenomena, we conducted a co-operative study of 65,154 consecutively admitted, black male patients in 13 Veterans Administration hospitals. The overall frequency of sickle-cell trait was 7.8 per cent and of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase dificiency 11.2 per cent. Both conditions were present in 0.9 per cent of those examined. There were regional, but no age-dependent, differences in the frequency of sickle-cell trait. Sickle-cell trait had no effect on average age at hospitalization or death, overall mortality, length of hospitalization on medical and surgical wards and frequency of any diagnosis, except essential hematuria and pulmonary embolism. Although statistically significant (P less than 0.001), the differences for the latter were small (1.5 per cent of all patients with normal hemoglobin and 2.2 per cent of patients with sickle-cell trait). Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency had no adverse effect.", "PMID": 431593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_835", "title": "Evidence against transmission of Hodgkin's disease in high schools.", "content": "A survey in Greater Boston identified 1577 new cases of histologically diagnosed Hodgkin's disease between 1959 and 1973. Of these cases, 448 were of ages such that the patients might have attended high school during 1960-73. For 96 per cent of these persons high-school attendance was ascertained. First of all, we studied Hodgkin's disease at high schools in two time periods. The 13 high schools with cases present in 1960-64 were matched with 26 schools that had no cases in this period, and we compared these two groups for the occurrence of Hodgkin's disease during 1965-69. The proportion of \"exposed\" high schools that had cases diagnosed in the second period was 0.62, and that for the matched high schools was 0.65. We performed this two-time-period analysis for 25 additional combinations of time periods; in none of them did we find a statistically significant positive result. Secondly, we studied the risk of Hodgkin's disease among persons who had attended high school at the same time as a diagnosed case. We followed these \"exposed\" persons through 1973 and observed 12 cases among them, whereas the expected number of cases was 13.9. Thirdly, we evaluated the extent to which members of all possible pairs of cases had attended the same or nearby high schools at the same time. We found no excess of classmate pairs than might have occurred by chance alone. These data suggest that there is no transmission of an etiologic agent for Hodgkin's disease at high schools.", "contents": "Evidence against transmission of Hodgkin's disease in high schools. A survey in Greater Boston identified 1577 new cases of histologically diagnosed Hodgkin's disease between 1959 and 1973. Of these cases, 448 were of ages such that the patients might have attended high school during 1960-73. For 96 per cent of these persons high-school attendance was ascertained. First of all, we studied Hodgkin's disease at high schools in two time periods. The 13 high schools with cases present in 1960-64 were matched with 26 schools that had no cases in this period, and we compared these two groups for the occurrence of Hodgkin's disease during 1965-69. The proportion of \"exposed\" high schools that had cases diagnosed in the second period was 0.62, and that for the matched high schools was 0.65. We performed this two-time-period analysis for 25 additional combinations of time periods; in none of them did we find a statistically significant positive result. Secondly, we studied the risk of Hodgkin's disease among persons who had attended high school at the same time as a diagnosed case. We followed these \"exposed\" persons through 1973 and observed 12 cases among them, whereas the expected number of cases was 13.9. Thirdly, we evaluated the extent to which members of all possible pairs of cases had attended the same or nearby high schools at the same time. We found no excess of classmate pairs than might have occurred by chance alone. These data suggest that there is no transmission of an etiologic agent for Hodgkin's disease at high schools.", "PMID": 431594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_836", "title": "Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal dysfunction in men using cimetidine.", "content": "We studied the effect of cimetidine therapy (1200 mg per day by mouth for nine weeks) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of seven men. There was a 43 per cent mean reduction in sperm count after therapy. The luteinizing hormone response to luteinizing hormone releasing factor was also reduced, and a statistically significnat rise in plasma testosterone occurred, although it was less than that before therapy. Gonadotropin responses to provocative clomiphene stimulation were inadequate when compared with those of controls. Cimetidine did not affect the responses of thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin, growth hormone and thyroxine to thyrotropin releasing factor. Caution is advisable in administration of cimetidine for prolonged periods to young men.", "contents": "Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal dysfunction in men using cimetidine. We studied the effect of cimetidine therapy (1200 mg per day by mouth for nine weeks) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of seven men. There was a 43 per cent mean reduction in sperm count after therapy. The luteinizing hormone response to luteinizing hormone releasing factor was also reduced, and a statistically significnat rise in plasma testosterone occurred, although it was less than that before therapy. Gonadotropin responses to provocative clomiphene stimulation were inadequate when compared with those of controls. Cimetidine did not affect the responses of thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin, growth hormone and thyroxine to thyrotropin releasing factor. Caution is advisable in administration of cimetidine for prolonged periods to young men.", "PMID": 431595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_837", "title": "Persistence of middle-ear effusion after acute otitis media in children.", "content": "We observed the frequent occurrence of persistent middle-ear effusion in children with acute otitis media and followed them according to standard procedures for otologic diagnosis. We performed a life-table analysis to identify risk factors for such persistent disease. Sixty-two patients were free of middle-ear effusion at one or more clinic visits two to 13 weeks after presentation and were considered cured; 45 had effusion at all clinic visits during this period and were defined as having persistent effusion. The life-table analysis showed that the relative risk for persistence was 3.8 times higher in children less than 24 months of age as compared with children 24 months of age or older (P less than 0.001) and that this risk was 2.8 times greater for white as compared with black children (P less than 0.01). Other factors examined were not identified as significant risk factors. Persistent middle-ear effusion may be associated with impaired hearing and appears to be the most important sequela of otitis media.", "contents": "Persistence of middle-ear effusion after acute otitis media in children. We observed the frequent occurrence of persistent middle-ear effusion in children with acute otitis media and followed them according to standard procedures for otologic diagnosis. We performed a life-table analysis to identify risk factors for such persistent disease. Sixty-two patients were free of middle-ear effusion at one or more clinic visits two to 13 weeks after presentation and were considered cured; 45 had effusion at all clinic visits during this period and were defined as having persistent effusion. The life-table analysis showed that the relative risk for persistence was 3.8 times higher in children less than 24 months of age as compared with children 24 months of age or older (P less than 0.001) and that this risk was 2.8 times greater for white as compared with black children (P less than 0.01). Other factors examined were not identified as significant risk factors. Persistent middle-ear effusion may be associated with impaired hearing and appears to be the most important sequela of otitis media.", "PMID": 431635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_838", "title": "Immune response of a patient with deficiency of the fourth component of complement and systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "The clinical details of a five-year-old boy with systemic lupus erythematosus and an inherited deficiency of the fourth component of complement (C4) have been reported elsewhere. In this study of his immune responses, immunization with bacteriophage phi X 174 demonstrated diminished antibody formation, abnormal immunologic memory and failure to switch from IgM to IgG during secondary response. We also noted persistent lymphopenia and reductions in peripheral-blood T lymphocytes, lymphocyte responses to mitogens and allogeneic cells and granulocyte chemotaxis. Kinetic studies revealed that delayed activation of the alternative pathway was corrected by purified C4 only if the classical pathway was not blocked. This finding is consistent with the concept that minute amounts of C3b provided through the classical pathway are necessary to prime the properdin system. Inability to activate the classical complement pathway, abnormal kinetics of alternative-pathway activation and depressed antibody responses to a T-cell-dependent antigen may predispose C4-deficient patients to viral infection or immune-complex formation.", "contents": "Immune response of a patient with deficiency of the fourth component of complement and systemic lupus erythematosus. The clinical details of a five-year-old boy with systemic lupus erythematosus and an inherited deficiency of the fourth component of complement (C4) have been reported elsewhere. In this study of his immune responses, immunization with bacteriophage phi X 174 demonstrated diminished antibody formation, abnormal immunologic memory and failure to switch from IgM to IgG during secondary response. We also noted persistent lymphopenia and reductions in peripheral-blood T lymphocytes, lymphocyte responses to mitogens and allogeneic cells and granulocyte chemotaxis. Kinetic studies revealed that delayed activation of the alternative pathway was corrected by purified C4 only if the classical pathway was not blocked. This finding is consistent with the concept that minute amounts of C3b provided through the classical pathway are necessary to prime the properdin system. Inability to activate the classical complement pathway, abnormal kinetics of alternative-pathway activation and depressed antibody responses to a T-cell-dependent antigen may predispose C4-deficient patients to viral infection or immune-complex formation.", "PMID": 431636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_839", "title": "Intramuscular pressures with limb compression. Clarification of the pathogenesis of the drug-induced muscle-compartment syndrome.", "content": "To study muscle necrosis due to prolonged limb compression, we measured intramuscular pressure by inserting wick catheters into 10 volar forearms and 10 anterior tibial compartments of adult volunteers. We then placed the subjects in positions in which victims of drug overdose are commonly found. Intramuscular pressures in the area of direct compression on hard surfaces ranged from 26 to 240 mm Hg, and averaged 101 mm Hg. Most remarkable was a mean pressure of 180 mm Hg on compression of the forearm by the rib cage. These pressures are sufficient to cause muscle and capillary ischemia and necrosis by local obstruction of the circulation. This local injury by limb compression may produce edema sufficient to start compartment tamponade and consequent muscle-compartment and crush syndromes.", "contents": "Intramuscular pressures with limb compression. Clarification of the pathogenesis of the drug-induced muscle-compartment syndrome. To study muscle necrosis due to prolonged limb compression, we measured intramuscular pressure by inserting wick catheters into 10 volar forearms and 10 anterior tibial compartments of adult volunteers. We then placed the subjects in positions in which victims of drug overdose are commonly found. Intramuscular pressures in the area of direct compression on hard surfaces ranged from 26 to 240 mm Hg, and averaged 101 mm Hg. Most remarkable was a mean pressure of 180 mm Hg on compression of the forearm by the rib cage. These pressures are sufficient to cause muscle and capillary ischemia and necrosis by local obstruction of the circulation. This local injury by limb compression may produce edema sufficient to start compartment tamponade and consequent muscle-compartment and crush syndromes.", "PMID": 431646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_840", "title": "Androgens and the evolution of male-gender identity among male pseudohermaphrodites with 5alpha-reductase deficiency.", "content": "To determine the contribution of androgens to the formation of male-gender identity, we studied male pseudohermaphrodites who had decreased dihydrotestosterone production due to 5 alpha-reductase deficiency. These subjects were born with female-appearing external genitalia and were raised as girls. They have plasma testosterone levels in the high normal range, show an excellent response to testosterone and are unique models for evaluating the effect of testosterone, as compared with a female upbringing, in determining gender identity. Eighteen of 38 affected subjects were unambiguously raised as girls, yet during or after puberty, 17 of 18 changed to a male-gender identity and 16 of 18 to a male-gender role. Thus, exposure of the brain to normal levels of testosterone in utero, neonatally and at puberty appears to contribute substantially to the formation of male-gender identity. These subjects demonstrate that in the absence of sociocultural factors that could interrupt the natural sequence of events, the effect of testosterone predominates, over-riding the effect of rearing as girls.", "contents": "Androgens and the evolution of male-gender identity among male pseudohermaphrodites with 5alpha-reductase deficiency. To determine the contribution of androgens to the formation of male-gender identity, we studied male pseudohermaphrodites who had decreased dihydrotestosterone production due to 5 alpha-reductase deficiency. These subjects were born with female-appearing external genitalia and were raised as girls. They have plasma testosterone levels in the high normal range, show an excellent response to testosterone and are unique models for evaluating the effect of testosterone, as compared with a female upbringing, in determining gender identity. Eighteen of 38 affected subjects were unambiguously raised as girls, yet during or after puberty, 17 of 18 changed to a male-gender identity and 16 of 18 to a male-gender role. Thus, exposure of the brain to normal levels of testosterone in utero, neonatally and at puberty appears to contribute substantially to the formation of male-gender identity. These subjects demonstrate that in the absence of sociocultural factors that could interrupt the natural sequence of events, the effect of testosterone predominates, over-riding the effect of rearing as girls.", "PMID": 431680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_841", "title": "Digoxin-quinidine interaction Pharmacokinetic evaluation.", "content": "Several recent reports have shown that plasma concentrations of digoxin increase when quinidine is administered along with digoxin; the present study was designed to explore the pharmacokinetics of this digoxin-quinidine interaction in six subjects. The elimination half-life of digoxin, although variable, did not change appreciably (42 vs. 44 hours) when quinidine was administered. Other pharmacokinetic values were substantially reduced in the presence of quinidine: total body clearance (from 3.08 to 1.96 ml per minute per kilogram), renal clearance (from 1.64 to 1.09 ml per minute per kilogram) and volume of distribution (from 10.87 to 7.35 liters per kilogram). The results may be explained by the displacement of digoxin from binding sites in tissue by quinidine, causing a rise in the plasma concentration of digoxin. The reduction in renal clearance of digoxin may result also from inhibition of renal secretion of digoxin by quinidine.", "contents": "Digoxin-quinidine interaction Pharmacokinetic evaluation. Several recent reports have shown that plasma concentrations of digoxin increase when quinidine is administered along with digoxin; the present study was designed to explore the pharmacokinetics of this digoxin-quinidine interaction in six subjects. The elimination half-life of digoxin, although variable, did not change appreciably (42 vs. 44 hours) when quinidine was administered. Other pharmacokinetic values were substantially reduced in the presence of quinidine: total body clearance (from 3.08 to 1.96 ml per minute per kilogram), renal clearance (from 1.64 to 1.09 ml per minute per kilogram) and volume of distribution (from 10.87 to 7.35 liters per kilogram). The results may be explained by the displacement of digoxin from binding sites in tissue by quinidine, causing a rise in the plasma concentration of digoxin. The reduction in renal clearance of digoxin may result also from inhibition of renal secretion of digoxin by quinidine.", "PMID": 431681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_842", "title": "A new design for randomized clinical trials.", "content": "This paper proposes a new method for planning randomized clinical trials. This method is especially suited to comparison of a best standard or control treatment with an experimental treatment. Patients are allocated into two groups by a random or chance mechanism. Patients in the first group receive standard treatment; those in the second group are asked if they will accept the experimental therapy; if they decline, they receive the best standard treatment. In the analyses of results, all those in the second group, regardless of treatment, are compared with those in the first group. Any loss of statistical efficiency can be overcome by increased numbers. This experimental plan is indeed a randomized clinical trial and has the advantage that, before providing consent, a patient will know whether an experimental treatment is to be used.", "contents": "A new design for randomized clinical trials. This paper proposes a new method for planning randomized clinical trials. This method is especially suited to comparison of a best standard or control treatment with an experimental treatment. Patients are allocated into two groups by a random or chance mechanism. Patients in the first group receive standard treatment; those in the second group are asked if they will accept the experimental therapy; if they decline, they receive the best standard treatment. In the analyses of results, all those in the second group, regardless of treatment, are compared with those in the first group. Any loss of statistical efficiency can be overcome by increased numbers. This experimental plan is indeed a randomized clinical trial and has the advantage that, before providing consent, a patient will know whether an experimental treatment is to be used.", "PMID": 431682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_843", "title": "Nontreatment of fever in extended-care facilities.", "content": "In a study of decisions not to treat febrile patients, we reviewed the medical records of 1256 people admitted to nine extended-care facilities in Seattle during 1973. Fever, defined as two temperatures of 38.33 degrees C to 38.83 degrees C (101 to 101.9 degrees F), within 24 hours or one temperature greater than or equal to 38.88 degrees C (102 degrees F), developed in 190 patients before two years of stay. Active treatment, defined as antibiotics or hospitalization (or both), was ordered for fever in 109 patients, of whom 10 (9 per cent) died. Active treatment was not ordered for 81 patients, of whom 48 (59 per cent) died. The pre-decision factors that showed a significant relation (P less than 0.05) to such nontreatment were: diagnosis, mental status, mobility, pain, narcotics prescribed, size of the facility, relation of the physician to the patient and medical-record statements documenting the patient's deterioration or plans for nontreatment in general. This pattern of nontreatment suggests that physicians and nurses did not intend to treat these patients actively and that high mortality was expected.", "contents": "Nontreatment of fever in extended-care facilities. In a study of decisions not to treat febrile patients, we reviewed the medical records of 1256 people admitted to nine extended-care facilities in Seattle during 1973. Fever, defined as two temperatures of 38.33 degrees C to 38.83 degrees C (101 to 101.9 degrees F), within 24 hours or one temperature greater than or equal to 38.88 degrees C (102 degrees F), developed in 190 patients before two years of stay. Active treatment, defined as antibiotics or hospitalization (or both), was ordered for fever in 109 patients, of whom 10 (9 per cent) died. Active treatment was not ordered for 81 patients, of whom 48 (59 per cent) died. The pre-decision factors that showed a significant relation (P less than 0.05) to such nontreatment were: diagnosis, mental status, mobility, pain, narcotics prescribed, size of the facility, relation of the physician to the patient and medical-record statements documenting the patient's deterioration or plans for nontreatment in general. This pattern of nontreatment suggests that physicians and nurses did not intend to treat these patients actively and that high mortality was expected.", "PMID": 431683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_844", "title": "Construction of a site-specific, deletion-frameshift mutation in an essential gene of bacteriophage phiX174.", "content": "By in vitro methods, we have deleted 80 nucleotides from a preselected site in the coding sequence of gene G of bacteriophage phiX174. This mutant (Gdelta/FS ZH1) also carries a--2 frameshift. The mutation is lethal, but mutant virus can be stably maintained on host strains bearing plasmids carrying phiX gene G.", "contents": "Construction of a site-specific, deletion-frameshift mutation in an essential gene of bacteriophage phiX174. By in vitro methods, we have deleted 80 nucleotides from a preselected site in the coding sequence of gene G of bacteriophage phiX174. This mutant (Gdelta/FS ZH1) also carries a--2 frameshift. The mutation is lethal, but mutant virus can be stably maintained on host strains bearing plasmids carrying phiX gene G.", "PMID": 431717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_845", "title": "Thrombin-stimulated cell division involves proteolysis of its cell surface receptor.", "content": "A cell-surface component of molecular weight 43,000 is cleaved by thrombin on cells that divide after thrombin treatment, but is not cleaved on cells that are unresponsive to its mitogenic action. Studies with a photoreactive derivative of thrombin showed that its cell surface receptor has a molecular weight of 43,000. This indicates that thrombin must cleave its receptor to stimulate cell division.", "contents": "Thrombin-stimulated cell division involves proteolysis of its cell surface receptor. A cell-surface component of molecular weight 43,000 is cleaved by thrombin on cells that divide after thrombin treatment, but is not cleaved on cells that are unresponsive to its mitogenic action. Studies with a photoreactive derivative of thrombin showed that its cell surface receptor has a molecular weight of 43,000. This indicates that thrombin must cleave its receptor to stimulate cell division.", "PMID": 431729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_846", "title": "BCG vaccination in Hodgkin's lymphogranuloma.", "content": "Results of active non-specific immunotherapy in 25 patients suffering from Hodgkin's disease are given. All of them, being at the stage of a complete remission (residual disease) were divided into two groups according to the clinical stage: group 1 at the stage I and II and group 2 at the stage III and IV. To each vaccinated patient a non-vaccinated control, being at the same stage of disease and of approximately the same age, was selected by applying the method A--B. Results as to the survival time and the remission duration were in both vaccinated groups significantly longer although less significant in patients with an advanced stage of the disease. The present report is to be considered preliminary and the research work is carried on.", "contents": "BCG vaccination in Hodgkin's lymphogranuloma. Results of active non-specific immunotherapy in 25 patients suffering from Hodgkin's disease are given. All of them, being at the stage of a complete remission (residual disease) were divided into two groups according to the clinical stage: group 1 at the stage I and II and group 2 at the stage III and IV. To each vaccinated patient a non-vaccinated control, being at the same stage of disease and of approximately the same age, was selected by applying the method A--B. Results as to the survival time and the remission duration were in both vaccinated groups significantly longer although less significant in patients with an advanced stage of the disease. The present report is to be considered preliminary and the research work is carried on.", "PMID": 431752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_847", "title": "Carcinogenicity and polarographic behaviour of dibenzo[a,h]pyrene, 4,11-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene and 7,14-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene.", "content": "In a simultaneous test of carcinogenicity the writers have studied the activities of dibenzo[a,h]pyrene (I), 4,11-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene (II) and 7,14-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene (III). These compounds were dispersed in paraffin disks and subcutaneously implanted in rats. Each experimental group consisted of 30 animals. The number of sarcomas induced by (I) and (II) was 23 and 16 respectively. The compound (III) has proved wholly inactive. Tumorigenicity of (I) and (II) was found to be proportional to their electron donation and inversely proportional to their electron acceptance in the performed polarographic test. Inactivity of (III) is being discussed from the aspect of molecular geometry.", "contents": "Carcinogenicity and polarographic behaviour of dibenzo[a,h]pyrene, 4,11-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene and 7,14-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene. In a simultaneous test of carcinogenicity the writers have studied the activities of dibenzo[a,h]pyrene (I), 4,11-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene (II) and 7,14-diazadibenzo[a,h]pyrene (III). These compounds were dispersed in paraffin disks and subcutaneously implanted in rats. Each experimental group consisted of 30 animals. The number of sarcomas induced by (I) and (II) was 23 and 16 respectively. The compound (III) has proved wholly inactive. Tumorigenicity of (I) and (II) was found to be proportional to their electron donation and inversely proportional to their electron acceptance in the performed polarographic test. Inactivity of (III) is being discussed from the aspect of molecular geometry.", "PMID": 431753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_848", "title": "Biosynthesis of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate in the liver of rats bearing transplantable tumors and during chemical carcinogenesis.", "content": "Biosynthesis of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate, cholesteryl palmitate and cholesteryl stearate was studied in the liver of rats bearing the Walker 256 carcinoma. Zajdela hepatoma and during chemical carcinogenesis following the administration of benzo[a]-pyrene. An up to 9-fold enhanced production of all these esters was found in liver homogenate during the 10--16th day after Walker tumor transplantation. Only the enzyme system esterifying cholesterol in the cytosol at pH 6.5 was stimulated while the activity of similar enzymes in mitochondria, microsomes and cytosol at an acid pH were not affected. Activity of the cytosol enzyme esterifying cholesterol at pH 6.5 was also enhanced during the active growth of Zajdela hepatoma and during the period of chemical carcinogenesis characterized by the appearance of first palpable subcutaneous tumors. Enhanced activity of cholesterol esterifying enzymes in the liver exactly coincided with periods of elevated levels of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate in the liver and blood plasma as described earlier. An increased demand of the tumor-bearing host for this cholesteryl ester utilized as a co-factor for enhanced protein synthesis is obviously met by its stimulated production in the liver tissue.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate in the liver of rats bearing transplantable tumors and during chemical carcinogenesis. Biosynthesis of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate, cholesteryl palmitate and cholesteryl stearate was studied in the liver of rats bearing the Walker 256 carcinoma. Zajdela hepatoma and during chemical carcinogenesis following the administration of benzo[a]-pyrene. An up to 9-fold enhanced production of all these esters was found in liver homogenate during the 10--16th day after Walker tumor transplantation. Only the enzyme system esterifying cholesterol in the cytosol at pH 6.5 was stimulated while the activity of similar enzymes in mitochondria, microsomes and cytosol at an acid pH were not affected. Activity of the cytosol enzyme esterifying cholesterol at pH 6.5 was also enhanced during the active growth of Zajdela hepatoma and during the period of chemical carcinogenesis characterized by the appearance of first palpable subcutaneous tumors. Enhanced activity of cholesterol esterifying enzymes in the liver exactly coincided with periods of elevated levels of cholesteryl 14-methylhexadecanoate in the liver and blood plasma as described earlier. An increased demand of the tumor-bearing host for this cholesteryl ester utilized as a co-factor for enhanced protein synthesis is obviously met by its stimulated production in the liver tissue.", "PMID": 431754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_849", "title": "Morphologic changes in the gastric mucosa of rats after administration of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine. Electronmicroscopic study.", "content": "Electron microscopic findings of the effects of exposure to the cancerogenic substance N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) upon the gastric mucosa of rats are presented. MNNG was administered in drinking water at a concentration of 83 mg/l over a period of eight weeks. The resulting findings included occurrence of myelin figures in membrane structures of epithelial cells, occasional disappearance of nuclear membrane, numerous intranuclear cytoplasmic pseudoinclusions, and increased number of perichromatin and interchromatin granules and of nuclear corpuscles. Narrowing of the layer of peripheral condensed chromatin and broadening of the layer of dispersed chromatin were frequently observed. In the cytoplasm of epithelial cells, production of autophagous vacuoles was detected in differentiated types of cells, the presence of great amount of polysomes and profiles of rough endoplasmic reticulum diversely deformed was seen in the undifferentiated neck cells. These cells presented a marked proliferative activity. Some of the changes described in the nuclei of epithelial cells were also observed in different mesenchymal elements in the lamina propria mucosae. The demonstrated changes are indicative of both regressive and progressive effects of the cancerogen used in our experiment.", "contents": "Morphologic changes in the gastric mucosa of rats after administration of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine. Electronmicroscopic study. Electron microscopic findings of the effects of exposure to the cancerogenic substance N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) upon the gastric mucosa of rats are presented. MNNG was administered in drinking water at a concentration of 83 mg/l over a period of eight weeks. The resulting findings included occurrence of myelin figures in membrane structures of epithelial cells, occasional disappearance of nuclear membrane, numerous intranuclear cytoplasmic pseudoinclusions, and increased number of perichromatin and interchromatin granules and of nuclear corpuscles. Narrowing of the layer of peripheral condensed chromatin and broadening of the layer of dispersed chromatin were frequently observed. In the cytoplasm of epithelial cells, production of autophagous vacuoles was detected in differentiated types of cells, the presence of great amount of polysomes and profiles of rough endoplasmic reticulum diversely deformed was seen in the undifferentiated neck cells. These cells presented a marked proliferative activity. Some of the changes described in the nuclei of epithelial cells were also observed in different mesenchymal elements in the lamina propria mucosae. The demonstrated changes are indicative of both regressive and progressive effects of the cancerogen used in our experiment.", "PMID": 431755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_850", "title": "Acid hydrolases in the extracellular medium of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells.", "content": "The hydrolytic activities released to the extracellular medium by tumor cells could be related to the fundamental mechanisms of invasion and metastasis. This paper deals with a study of the extracellular release of several enzymatic activities by Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells maintained in vitro. The activities of acid hydrolases increase during the first 30 minutes of in vitro incubation to levels significantly higher than those of cytoplasmic enzymes. The presented results are consistent with the hypothesis of the existence of a mechanism in these cells for the specific release of lysosomal contents.", "contents": "Acid hydrolases in the extracellular medium of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. The hydrolytic activities released to the extracellular medium by tumor cells could be related to the fundamental mechanisms of invasion and metastasis. This paper deals with a study of the extracellular release of several enzymatic activities by Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells maintained in vitro. The activities of acid hydrolases increase during the first 30 minutes of in vitro incubation to levels significantly higher than those of cytoplasmic enzymes. The presented results are consistent with the hypothesis of the existence of a mechanism in these cells for the specific release of lysosomal contents.", "PMID": 431756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_851", "title": "Cobalt-activated acylase from human uterine myoma.", "content": "Cobalt-activated acylase was isolated from human uterine muscle and myoma. The enzyme was purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, and subsequent chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, Sephadex G-150 and DEAE-Sephadex. The comparison of muscle acylase and acylase obtained from myoma has shown differences in the enzyme stability, the dependence of activity on pH and in the susceptibility to the effect of activators and inhibitors. Only one molecular form of cobalt-activated acylase has been found in both tissues.", "contents": "Cobalt-activated acylase from human uterine myoma. Cobalt-activated acylase was isolated from human uterine muscle and myoma. The enzyme was purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, and subsequent chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, Sephadex G-150 and DEAE-Sephadex. The comparison of muscle acylase and acylase obtained from myoma has shown differences in the enzyme stability, the dependence of activity on pH and in the susceptibility to the effect of activators and inhibitors. Only one molecular form of cobalt-activated acylase has been found in both tissues.", "PMID": 431757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_852", "title": "Chromosomal analysis on Yoshida tumor cells sensitive and resistant to dibromodulcitol.", "content": "Yoshida ascites tumor in Wistar rats was rendered resistant to dibromodulcitol. The modal number of chromosomes in the parent line was reduced from 39 to 36 in the resistant one. The parent tumor was a mixed cell population, containing large subtelocentric (LST) chromosome in 65 per cent of the cells, while in the remaining 35 per cent the LST chromosome was absent. In the resistant tumor line, however, the LST marker chromosome was present only in a few cells. The resistant line preserved this new karyotype throughout the 5 months of passaging even without dibromodulcitol, however, parallel to the loss of resistance this tumor line regained the original number of chromosomes, i. e. 39. Selection of a cell population with reduced number of chromosomes seems to be associated to the development of drug resistance.", "contents": "Chromosomal analysis on Yoshida tumor cells sensitive and resistant to dibromodulcitol. Yoshida ascites tumor in Wistar rats was rendered resistant to dibromodulcitol. The modal number of chromosomes in the parent line was reduced from 39 to 36 in the resistant one. The parent tumor was a mixed cell population, containing large subtelocentric (LST) chromosome in 65 per cent of the cells, while in the remaining 35 per cent the LST chromosome was absent. In the resistant tumor line, however, the LST marker chromosome was present only in a few cells. The resistant line preserved this new karyotype throughout the 5 months of passaging even without dibromodulcitol, however, parallel to the loss of resistance this tumor line regained the original number of chromosomes, i. e. 39. Selection of a cell population with reduced number of chromosomes seems to be associated to the development of drug resistance.", "PMID": 431758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_853", "title": "Combined therapy of leukemia La with Damvar and cytostatics.", "content": "The new cytostatic drug Damvar, delta-(2-amino-6-hydroxy-3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-5-pyrimidinyl)valeric acid, is not effective in La leukemia system. Damvar given in combination with 5-fluorouracil enhanced the anti-La effect of 5-Fu. There was also enhancement of the antileukemic effect of suboptimal and optimal doses of cyclophosphamide with the addition of Damvar.", "contents": "Combined therapy of leukemia La with Damvar and cytostatics. The new cytostatic drug Damvar, delta-(2-amino-6-hydroxy-3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-5-pyrimidinyl)valeric acid, is not effective in La leukemia system. Damvar given in combination with 5-fluorouracil enhanced the anti-La effect of 5-Fu. There was also enhancement of the antileukemic effect of suboptimal and optimal doses of cyclophosphamide with the addition of Damvar.", "PMID": 431759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_854", "title": "Vacuolation in the human cerebral cortex and its relationship to the interval between death and autopsy and to synapse numbers: an electron microscopic study.", "content": "Vacuolation in the human cerebral cortex resulting from swelling of cell processes after death was measured in electron micrographs in material obtained up to 69 hours post mortem from subjects with no known neurological abnormality. Vacuolation was found to increase significantly up to 30--35 hours after death and then to decrease. Accompanying this change was a significant reduction in the numbers of recognizable synapses which probably resulted from compression due to the vacuolation rather than from post-mortem disintegration.", "contents": "Vacuolation in the human cerebral cortex and its relationship to the interval between death and autopsy and to synapse numbers: an electron microscopic study. Vacuolation in the human cerebral cortex resulting from swelling of cell processes after death was measured in electron micrographs in material obtained up to 69 hours post mortem from subjects with no known neurological abnormality. Vacuolation was found to increase significantly up to 30--35 hours after death and then to decrease. Accompanying this change was a significant reduction in the numbers of recognizable synapses which probably resulted from compression due to the vacuolation rather than from post-mortem disintegration.", "PMID": 431764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_855", "title": "Protein and nucleic acid content in the aging human brain.", "content": "The frontal cortex, white matter, cerebellum, caudate nucleus, thalamus and putamen of human brains, ranging from 16 to 91 years, were assayed for protein and nucleic acids. In all these areas the protein content decreased by 5--15% between 30 years and 90 years-of-age. The nucleic acid content, however, did not show any significant change. During a post-mortem interval of 6--25 hours there was no significant decrease found in either the protein or the nucleic acid content of brain tissue.", "contents": "Protein and nucleic acid content in the aging human brain. The frontal cortex, white matter, cerebellum, caudate nucleus, thalamus and putamen of human brains, ranging from 16 to 91 years, were assayed for protein and nucleic acids. In all these areas the protein content decreased by 5--15% between 30 years and 90 years-of-age. The nucleic acid content, however, did not show any significant change. During a post-mortem interval of 6--25 hours there was no significant decrease found in either the protein or the nucleic acid content of brain tissue.", "PMID": 431765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_856", "title": "Evidence of vasopressin in adenohypophysis: research into its role in corticotrope activity.", "content": "The presence of vasopressin (VP) in pars distalis of rats and pigs was investigated. Using radioimmunoassay and bioassay of VP, a substance with immunological and biological properties of this hormone was found. This substance was not detected in the adenohypophysis of rats with diabetes insipidus. A partial purification of the VP-like peptide showed that it had the chromatographic and electrophoretic properties of VP. It could be identified with arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the case of the rat and lysine-vasopressin (LVP) in the case of the pig. In the Wistar strain, adrenalectomy induced progressively increasing concentrations of adenohypophysial VP. This increase was significant 15 days after surgery. It could be prevented by treatment with dexamethasone. These results indicate that the presence of VP in the anterior pituitary is related to the regulation of ACTH secretion.", "contents": "Evidence of vasopressin in adenohypophysis: research into its role in corticotrope activity. The presence of vasopressin (VP) in pars distalis of rats and pigs was investigated. Using radioimmunoassay and bioassay of VP, a substance with immunological and biological properties of this hormone was found. This substance was not detected in the adenohypophysis of rats with diabetes insipidus. A partial purification of the VP-like peptide showed that it had the chromatographic and electrophoretic properties of VP. It could be identified with arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the case of the rat and lysine-vasopressin (LVP) in the case of the pig. In the Wistar strain, adrenalectomy induced progressively increasing concentrations of adenohypophysial VP. This increase was significant 15 days after surgery. It could be prevented by treatment with dexamethasone. These results indicate that the presence of VP in the anterior pituitary is related to the regulation of ACTH secretion.", "PMID": 431770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_857", "title": "Restitution of bromodeoxyuridine-induced changes in cerebellar development.", "content": "Previously, it was shown that bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) in 2-day-old rats caused hypoplasia of the external cerebellar granular layer. Significant restitution was achieved after removal of BrdU by an increase in the rate and duration of proliferative activity of the EGL cells, but abnormal cerebellar cytoarchitecture remained detectable at 35 days of age due mainly to polarity changes in the regenerated cells. The present report concerns repair of the EGL after giving BrdU to 7-day-old rats i.p. (15 mg/100 g body weight) twice daily for 3 days and killed at 15 days-of-age. Now, the regenerative capacity of the EGL was severely curtailed. The proliferative activity of the EGL of the treated animals was similar to normal controls and there was no change in the orientation of either the EGL cells or the parallel fibers. The only noticeable differences were a decrease in the width of the molecular layer and the presence of unusually elongated primary dendrites in many Purkinje cells of the BrdU treated rats. It was concluded that lengthening of the cell cycle time had slowed down the removal of BrdU and thus reduced the regenerative potential of the EGL at this age.", "contents": "Restitution of bromodeoxyuridine-induced changes in cerebellar development. Previously, it was shown that bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) in 2-day-old rats caused hypoplasia of the external cerebellar granular layer. Significant restitution was achieved after removal of BrdU by an increase in the rate and duration of proliferative activity of the EGL cells, but abnormal cerebellar cytoarchitecture remained detectable at 35 days of age due mainly to polarity changes in the regenerated cells. The present report concerns repair of the EGL after giving BrdU to 7-day-old rats i.p. (15 mg/100 g body weight) twice daily for 3 days and killed at 15 days-of-age. Now, the regenerative capacity of the EGL was severely curtailed. The proliferative activity of the EGL of the treated animals was similar to normal controls and there was no change in the orientation of either the EGL cells or the parallel fibers. The only noticeable differences were a decrease in the width of the molecular layer and the presence of unusually elongated primary dendrites in many Purkinje cells of the BrdU treated rats. It was concluded that lengthening of the cell cycle time had slowed down the removal of BrdU and thus reduced the regenerative potential of the EGL at this age.", "PMID": 431766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_858", "title": "Pinealectomy-induced changes in blood and pituitary luteinizing and prolactin levels during the last phase of pregnancy in rats.", "content": "Serum LH levels were higher in pinealectomized than in sham-operated control rats during all 4 of the last days of pregnancy studied, although reaching significance only during the final 2 days, 21 and 22. Prolactin (Prl) levels in the serum on the final day of pregnancy, and its contents in the pituitary throughout the entire study period, were significantly lower in pinealectomized rats. Pituitary weights were lower in pinealectomized than in control animals during days 21 and 22 of pregnancy, but no differences were found between the 2 groups in the average number of living foetuses and resorptions. The results presented would seem to indicate that during the last phase of pregnancy the pineal gland plays a role in the modification of gonadotropin synthesis and release. It appears that with LH the release, and with Prl mainly the synthesis, is being affected by the pineal, although the release of Prl may be influenced as well.", "contents": "Pinealectomy-induced changes in blood and pituitary luteinizing and prolactin levels during the last phase of pregnancy in rats. Serum LH levels were higher in pinealectomized than in sham-operated control rats during all 4 of the last days of pregnancy studied, although reaching significance only during the final 2 days, 21 and 22. Prolactin (Prl) levels in the serum on the final day of pregnancy, and its contents in the pituitary throughout the entire study period, were significantly lower in pinealectomized rats. Pituitary weights were lower in pinealectomized than in control animals during days 21 and 22 of pregnancy, but no differences were found between the 2 groups in the average number of living foetuses and resorptions. The results presented would seem to indicate that during the last phase of pregnancy the pineal gland plays a role in the modification of gonadotropin synthesis and release. It appears that with LH the release, and with Prl mainly the synthesis, is being affected by the pineal, although the release of Prl may be influenced as well.", "PMID": 431771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_859", "title": "Identification of neurophysin-like proteins in the posterior pituitary gland of the chicken (Gallus domesticus).", "content": "Chicken posterior pituitary tissue was partially fractionated by extraction with 0.1 M HCl followed by gel exclusion chromatography. Two fractions, B and C, bound oxytocin. Two components of fraction B and at least 1 component of fraction C had properties characteristic of mammalian neurophysins: they appeared to be synthesized in the hypothalamus, were depleted upon osmotic stress, were rich in residues of cysteine and the 2 components of B bound to [8-lysinel]-vasopressin coupled to Sepharose.", "contents": "Identification of neurophysin-like proteins in the posterior pituitary gland of the chicken (Gallus domesticus). Chicken posterior pituitary tissue was partially fractionated by extraction with 0.1 M HCl followed by gel exclusion chromatography. Two fractions, B and C, bound oxytocin. Two components of fraction B and at least 1 component of fraction C had properties characteristic of mammalian neurophysins: they appeared to be synthesized in the hypothalamus, were depleted upon osmotic stress, were rich in residues of cysteine and the 2 components of B bound to [8-lysinel]-vasopressin coupled to Sepharose.", "PMID": 431772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_860", "title": "Plasma testosterone and LH levels in male quail bearing hypothalamic lesions or radioluminous implants.", "content": "Radioluminous material (RLM) was implanted in either the infundibular complex or the preoptic area of sexually immature quail exposed to short days. Direct selective photic stimulation of the infundibular complex resulted in testicular growth (3,300 mg) and increase in levels of plasma testosterone (T, 23 ng/10 ml) and luteinizing hormone (LH, 4 ng/ml). Direct selective photic stimulation of the preoptic area did not induce any testis enlargement (84 mg) and plasma T and LH levels remained low (1.4 ng/10 ml and 0.9 ng/ml). However, preoptic as well as infundibular lesioning completely suppressed any gonadotropic and testicular responses to environmental photic stimulation. The respective and possibly differential roles played by these 2 structures in the photosexual reflex are discussed.", "contents": "Plasma testosterone and LH levels in male quail bearing hypothalamic lesions or radioluminous implants. Radioluminous material (RLM) was implanted in either the infundibular complex or the preoptic area of sexually immature quail exposed to short days. Direct selective photic stimulation of the infundibular complex resulted in testicular growth (3,300 mg) and increase in levels of plasma testosterone (T, 23 ng/10 ml) and luteinizing hormone (LH, 4 ng/ml). Direct selective photic stimulation of the preoptic area did not induce any testis enlargement (84 mg) and plasma T and LH levels remained low (1.4 ng/10 ml and 0.9 ng/ml). However, preoptic as well as infundibular lesioning completely suppressed any gonadotropic and testicular responses to environmental photic stimulation. The respective and possibly differential roles played by these 2 structures in the photosexual reflex are discussed.", "PMID": 431774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_861", "title": "Plasma corticosterone levels and ulcer formation in rats with hippocampal lesions.", "content": "In order to examine the effects of hippocampal lesions on plasma corticosterone levels and ulcer formation, 4 conditions were studied: (1) unrestrained nondeprived (2) unrestrained 24 h food-deprived (3) simple restraint and (4) restraint plus intermittent shock. In the unrestrained and unrestrained plus 24 h food-deprived conditions, neither animals with hippocampal lesions nor control animals developed ulcers. In both instances plasma corticosterone levels were similar in experimental and control animals. Differences appeared in the simple restraint and restraint plus intermittent shock conditions. In both of these conditions animals with hippocampal lesions developed more ulcers and had a higher corticosterone level than controls. It is concluded that animals with hippocampal lesions show an enhanced reaction to stress.", "contents": "Plasma corticosterone levels and ulcer formation in rats with hippocampal lesions. In order to examine the effects of hippocampal lesions on plasma corticosterone levels and ulcer formation, 4 conditions were studied: (1) unrestrained nondeprived (2) unrestrained 24 h food-deprived (3) simple restraint and (4) restraint plus intermittent shock. In the unrestrained and unrestrained plus 24 h food-deprived conditions, neither animals with hippocampal lesions nor control animals developed ulcers. In both instances plasma corticosterone levels were similar in experimental and control animals. Differences appeared in the simple restraint and restraint plus intermittent shock conditions. In both of these conditions animals with hippocampal lesions developed more ulcers and had a higher corticosterone level than controls. It is concluded that animals with hippocampal lesions show an enhanced reaction to stress.", "PMID": 431775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_862", "title": "Ultrastructural changes of oligodendroglia and myelin sheaths induced by ethidium bromide.", "content": "Intracisternal injection of ethidium bromide, an inhibitor of mitochondria associated RNA, DNA and protein synthesis, produced status spongiosus in the subpial surface of the CNS of rats. Ultrastructurally, numerous intra-myelinic vacuoles and prominent degenerative changes of oligodendroglia were observed. The vacuoles were formed between the myelin lamellae by splitting of the intraperiod lines, between the axolemma and the innermost myelin lamellae, and/or between the inner tongue of oligodendroglia and myelin lamellae. In the degenerating oligodendroglia, proliferation and alteration of the endoplasmic reticulum were prominent. In places, altered membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum formed concentrical scroll-like structures. These ultrastructural changes in ethidium bromide treated rats were compared with other similar previously described changes in animals treated with TET, cuprizone, hexachlorophene, hypocholesterolaemic drugs and actinomycin D.", "contents": "Ultrastructural changes of oligodendroglia and myelin sheaths induced by ethidium bromide. Intracisternal injection of ethidium bromide, an inhibitor of mitochondria associated RNA, DNA and protein synthesis, produced status spongiosus in the subpial surface of the CNS of rats. Ultrastructurally, numerous intra-myelinic vacuoles and prominent degenerative changes of oligodendroglia were observed. The vacuoles were formed between the myelin lamellae by splitting of the intraperiod lines, between the axolemma and the innermost myelin lamellae, and/or between the inner tongue of oligodendroglia and myelin lamellae. In the degenerating oligodendroglia, proliferation and alteration of the endoplasmic reticulum were prominent. In places, altered membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum formed concentrical scroll-like structures. These ultrastructural changes in ethidium bromide treated rats were compared with other similar previously described changes in animals treated with TET, cuprizone, hexachlorophene, hypocholesterolaemic drugs and actinomycin D.", "PMID": 431767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_863", "title": "Effects of thiophene on the Purkinje cell dendritic tree: a quantitative Golgi study.", "content": "A quantitative analysis was made of alterations in the dentritic organisation of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum of the adult rat following the administration of the degranulating agent, thiophene. This substance completely eliminated the granule cell population in a number of regions of cerebellar cortex. Purkinje cell dentdritic trees in these regions were markedly reduced in size when compared with control cells and provided evidence for a non-random loss of dentritic segments. Other dendritic abnormalities were noted. These results were discussed in relation to current theories of neuronal maintenance, and the feasibility of using toxic degranulating agents, such as thiophene, was considered.", "contents": "Effects of thiophene on the Purkinje cell dendritic tree: a quantitative Golgi study. A quantitative analysis was made of alterations in the dentritic organisation of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum of the adult rat following the administration of the degranulating agent, thiophene. This substance completely eliminated the granule cell population in a number of regions of cerebellar cortex. Purkinje cell dentdritic trees in these regions were markedly reduced in size when compared with control cells and provided evidence for a non-random loss of dentritic segments. Other dendritic abnormalities were noted. These results were discussed in relation to current theories of neuronal maintenance, and the feasibility of using toxic degranulating agents, such as thiophene, was considered.", "PMID": 431769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_864", "title": "Effects of dopaminergic antagonist and agonist on oxytocin release induced by various stimuli.", "content": "(1) Haloperidol, a dopaminergic antagonist was injected i.p. or into the 3rd ventricle (i.c.v.) of lactating rats to determine whether or not a dopaminergic component was involved in the reflex release of oxytocin (OT) induced by (a) vaginal dilatation (Ferguson reflex), (b) vagal stimulation (vago-pituitary reflex), (c) suckling (milk-ejection reflex). Moreover, we examined the effect of a dopaminergic agonist, apomorphine, on the milk-ejection (ME) reflex. (2) I.c.v. injection of 20 microgram haloperidol inhibited the vaginal and vagal reflexes. The inhibition of the ME reflex produced by 2, 5 or 8 mg/kg i.p. or by 20 and 40 microgram i.c.v. haloperidol was dose-dependent. Apomorphine (10 mg/kg i.p.) had no effect. (3) The results suggest that a dopaminergic component must be involved in OT release whatever the peripheral stimulus.", "contents": "Effects of dopaminergic antagonist and agonist on oxytocin release induced by various stimuli. (1) Haloperidol, a dopaminergic antagonist was injected i.p. or into the 3rd ventricle (i.c.v.) of lactating rats to determine whether or not a dopaminergic component was involved in the reflex release of oxytocin (OT) induced by (a) vaginal dilatation (Ferguson reflex), (b) vagal stimulation (vago-pituitary reflex), (c) suckling (milk-ejection reflex). Moreover, we examined the effect of a dopaminergic agonist, apomorphine, on the milk-ejection (ME) reflex. (2) I.c.v. injection of 20 microgram haloperidol inhibited the vaginal and vagal reflexes. The inhibition of the ME reflex produced by 2, 5 or 8 mg/kg i.p. or by 20 and 40 microgram i.c.v. haloperidol was dose-dependent. Apomorphine (10 mg/kg i.p.) had no effect. (3) The results suggest that a dopaminergic component must be involved in OT release whatever the peripheral stimulus.", "PMID": 431776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_865", "title": "Regional and sexual differences in the size of the neuro-vascular contact surface of the rat median eminence and pituitary stalk.", "content": "The size of the neuro-vascular contact surface was estimated along the median eminence (ME) proximal pituitary stalk (PS) of adult rats using serially cut 1 micrometer thick plastic sections. It was found 26% larger in female animals. The dorsal surface of the pars tuberalis was used as reference surface, and its size was estimated in the same way. The average rate of increase of the contact surface with respect to the reference surface was 3.05 and 2.98 in females and 2.34 and 2.35 in males. The reference surface was divided into small components and also the regional distribution of the rate of increase of the contact surface was analyzed. Very folded contact surface areas were found scattered in the rostral half of the ME. Folded areas made up the ME on both sides of the midline and the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the PS, whereas relatively smooth areas are localized along the 2 margins of the ME and the 2 sides of the PS. The results were correlated with the known termination sites of dopamine and various hypothalamic hormone containing pathways.", "contents": "Regional and sexual differences in the size of the neuro-vascular contact surface of the rat median eminence and pituitary stalk. The size of the neuro-vascular contact surface was estimated along the median eminence (ME) proximal pituitary stalk (PS) of adult rats using serially cut 1 micrometer thick plastic sections. It was found 26% larger in female animals. The dorsal surface of the pars tuberalis was used as reference surface, and its size was estimated in the same way. The average rate of increase of the contact surface with respect to the reference surface was 3.05 and 2.98 in females and 2.34 and 2.35 in males. The reference surface was divided into small components and also the regional distribution of the rate of increase of the contact surface was analyzed. Very folded contact surface areas were found scattered in the rostral half of the ME. Folded areas made up the ME on both sides of the midline and the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the PS, whereas relatively smooth areas are localized along the 2 margins of the ME and the 2 sides of the PS. The results were correlated with the known termination sites of dopamine and various hypothalamic hormone containing pathways.", "PMID": 431777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_866", "title": "Intrahypothalamic implants of progesterone inhibit lordosis behavior in ovariectomized, estrogen-treated rats.", "content": "Intracranial implants of crystalline progesterone (P) were used to examine in site of action of P's facilitatory and inhibitory effects on lordosis behavior in the ovariectomized, estradiol-benzoate (EB)-primed RAT. P implanted in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) 1 h prior to subcutaneous (s.c.) EB injection inhibited lordosis in response to a systemic P injection 44 h after EB (concurrent inhibition). P implanted in the MBH did not facilitate lordosis when implanted 44 h after EB injection, but this same implant of P inhibited lordosis in response to P injection 68 h after EB (sequential inhibition). Cholesterol (Chol) implants in the MBH did not inhibit lordosis behavior in either the concurrent or the sequential inhibition experimental paradigms. The results indicate that the MBH is an important site of P inhibition of sexual receptivity in the rat.", "contents": "Intrahypothalamic implants of progesterone inhibit lordosis behavior in ovariectomized, estrogen-treated rats. Intracranial implants of crystalline progesterone (P) were used to examine in site of action of P's facilitatory and inhibitory effects on lordosis behavior in the ovariectomized, estradiol-benzoate (EB)-primed RAT. P implanted in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) 1 h prior to subcutaneous (s.c.) EB injection inhibited lordosis in response to a systemic P injection 44 h after EB (concurrent inhibition). P implanted in the MBH did not facilitate lordosis when implanted 44 h after EB injection, but this same implant of P inhibited lordosis in response to P injection 68 h after EB (sequential inhibition). Cholesterol (Chol) implants in the MBH did not inhibit lordosis behavior in either the concurrent or the sequential inhibition experimental paradigms. The results indicate that the MBH is an important site of P inhibition of sexual receptivity in the rat.", "PMID": 431778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_867", "title": "Plasma and erythrocyte cations in affective illness.", "content": "Plasma and erythrocyte cations (sodium and magnesium) were studied in groups of patients with an affective disorder and in normal subjects. Baseline determinations were obtained before initiation of treatment for mania or depression. In a subgroup of patients, sequential measurements of cations were made during treatment with lithium carbonate. No differences were found in intraerythrocyte sodium or magnesium among any of the patient groups and controls. Patients with a primary affective disorder had significantly higher plasma sodium than control subjects. Neither baseline cation concentrations nor changes in cation concentration during treatment with lithium correlated with treatment response. Gender was shown to be a significant variable affecting intraerythrocyte cation concentrations.", "contents": "Plasma and erythrocyte cations in affective illness. Plasma and erythrocyte cations (sodium and magnesium) were studied in groups of patients with an affective disorder and in normal subjects. Baseline determinations were obtained before initiation of treatment for mania or depression. In a subgroup of patients, sequential measurements of cations were made during treatment with lithium carbonate. No differences were found in intraerythrocyte sodium or magnesium among any of the patient groups and controls. Patients with a primary affective disorder had significantly higher plasma sodium than control subjects. Neither baseline cation concentrations nor changes in cation concentration during treatment with lithium correlated with treatment response. Gender was shown to be a significant variable affecting intraerythrocyte cation concentrations.", "PMID": 431792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_868", "title": "Correlations between psychiatric diagnosis and some quantitative EEG variables.", "content": "Several methods of quantitative analysis were applied to the left parietal 'resting' EEGs of 48 nonpatient controls and 90 undrugged psychiatric inpatients. Patient and control groups, matched for age and sex, differed as follows: (a) Mean frequency was lower and frequency variability was greater in the total patient group than in controls. (b) Mean amplitude was higher and mean frequency lower in chronic schizophrenics than in controls; the amplitude differences were contributed mainly by female patients. (c) Amplitude and frequency means of nonpsychotic patients were intermediate between those of chronic schizophrenics and controls. (d) Mean amplitudes were greater and frequency variability was less in neurotics than in controls.", "contents": "Correlations between psychiatric diagnosis and some quantitative EEG variables. Several methods of quantitative analysis were applied to the left parietal 'resting' EEGs of 48 nonpatient controls and 90 undrugged psychiatric inpatients. Patient and control groups, matched for age and sex, differed as follows: (a) Mean frequency was lower and frequency variability was greater in the total patient group than in controls. (b) Mean amplitude was higher and mean frequency lower in chronic schizophrenics than in controls; the amplitude differences were contributed mainly by female patients. (c) Amplitude and frequency means of nonpsychotic patients were intermediate between those of chronic schizophrenics and controls. (d) Mean amplitudes were greater and frequency variability was less in neurotics than in controls.", "PMID": 431793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_869", "title": "Serum cholesterol in antisocial personality.", "content": "Serum cholesterol fasting concentrations were measured in 274 subjects with personality disorders, who had committed offences. Of these subjects, 139 were found to possess the antisocial personality (sociopathy or psychopathy). With standardized ages, the group of subjects with antisocial personality had a clearly lower mean level of serum cholesterol than the group with other personality disorders which was used as a control group. The use of a mean male population with standardized ages as a control group further emphasized the low values of the serum cholesterol of the antisocial personality group.", "contents": "Serum cholesterol in antisocial personality. Serum cholesterol fasting concentrations were measured in 274 subjects with personality disorders, who had committed offences. Of these subjects, 139 were found to possess the antisocial personality (sociopathy or psychopathy). With standardized ages, the group of subjects with antisocial personality had a clearly lower mean level of serum cholesterol than the group with other personality disorders which was used as a control group. The use of a mean male population with standardized ages as a control group further emphasized the low values of the serum cholesterol of the antisocial personality group.", "PMID": 431794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_870", "title": "Motion sickness: an index of sensory conflict relating to behavior.", "content": "Diverse measures of behavior are examined in a student and large patient sample for the purpose of supporting the concept that conflict in sensory mechanisms may contribute to diminished or impaired function. Evidence supports the contention that two patterns of orientation may exist at the extremes of motion sickness susceptibility and that individuals showing transitional patterns of organization may be vulnerable to different kinds of central nervous system disorganization. The authors believe that a consideration of sensory function as it relates to patterns of behavior may contribute to an expansion in the medical model of mental illness.", "contents": "Motion sickness: an index of sensory conflict relating to behavior. Diverse measures of behavior are examined in a student and large patient sample for the purpose of supporting the concept that conflict in sensory mechanisms may contribute to diminished or impaired function. Evidence supports the contention that two patterns of orientation may exist at the extremes of motion sickness susceptibility and that individuals showing transitional patterns of organization may be vulnerable to different kinds of central nervous system disorganization. The authors believe that a consideration of sensory function as it relates to patterns of behavior may contribute to an expansion in the medical model of mental illness.", "PMID": 431795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_871", "title": "Motion sickness susceptibility and solution choice in a pragmatic paradox.", "content": "This paper reports on an experiment which employed a classic paradox, known as the 'prisoner's dilemma', to explore possible differences in problem solving preference across a spectrum of motion sickness susceptibility. A mathematical form of the problem was used in which the subject was asked to imagine playing a game without communicating with his hypothetical partner. There were three possible solutions to the problem, a win-win, a lose-lose, and a win-lose solution. The results support the contention that a cognitive bias exists across a spectrum of motion sickness susceptibility, highly motion sick individuals having a greater tendency to pick the solution which allows both participants to win. This bias runs counter to that which might be expected on the basis of personality traits (non-motion sick individuals are more socially involved), and suggests that the cognitive tendency may reflect basic problem-solving strategies rooted in orientation process. The potential implications of these findings are discussed.", "contents": "Motion sickness susceptibility and solution choice in a pragmatic paradox. This paper reports on an experiment which employed a classic paradox, known as the 'prisoner's dilemma', to explore possible differences in problem solving preference across a spectrum of motion sickness susceptibility. A mathematical form of the problem was used in which the subject was asked to imagine playing a game without communicating with his hypothetical partner. There were three possible solutions to the problem, a win-win, a lose-lose, and a win-lose solution. The results support the contention that a cognitive bias exists across a spectrum of motion sickness susceptibility, highly motion sick individuals having a greater tendency to pick the solution which allows both participants to win. This bias runs counter to that which might be expected on the basis of personality traits (non-motion sick individuals are more socially involved), and suggests that the cognitive tendency may reflect basic problem-solving strategies rooted in orientation process. The potential implications of these findings are discussed.", "PMID": 431796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_872", "title": "HLA antigen and affective disorders: a report and critical assessment of histocompatibility studies.", "content": "The distribution of 50 HLA antigens, of the A, B and C loci, was investigated in 38 affectively ill Caucasian patients of Eastern European Jewish ancestry. The frequencies found were compared to those of a control population matched for race as well as geographic and ethnic-religious origins. Results indicate that a negative association exists between affective disorders and Cw3 and also suggests a similar negative association between such disorders and A9. A positive association with Bw16, Bw22 and Cw1 is also indicated; Bw16 was increased in those patients with no family history of psychological illness. A review of the available literature in this area shows a glaring lack of agreement among the studies. Methodological problems exist which are likely to contribute to the variable and conflicting results and might make comparison of data irrelevant. The lack of agreement of data among the studies may also indicate that no HLA disease association exists but rather reflect the existence of a defective gene in the HLA complex but not a part of the HLA system. Additional population and family studies are required before any definitive statements can be made.", "contents": "HLA antigen and affective disorders: a report and critical assessment of histocompatibility studies. The distribution of 50 HLA antigens, of the A, B and C loci, was investigated in 38 affectively ill Caucasian patients of Eastern European Jewish ancestry. The frequencies found were compared to those of a control population matched for race as well as geographic and ethnic-religious origins. Results indicate that a negative association exists between affective disorders and Cw3 and also suggests a similar negative association between such disorders and A9. A positive association with Bw16, Bw22 and Cw1 is also indicated; Bw16 was increased in those patients with no family history of psychological illness. A review of the available literature in this area shows a glaring lack of agreement among the studies. Methodological problems exist which are likely to contribute to the variable and conflicting results and might make comparison of data irrelevant. The lack of agreement of data among the studies may also indicate that no HLA disease association exists but rather reflect the existence of a defective gene in the HLA complex but not a part of the HLA system. Additional population and family studies are required before any definitive statements can be made.", "PMID": 431797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_873", "title": "Possible linkage between alpha-haptoglobin (Hp) and depression spectrum disease.", "content": "Depression spectrum disease is an unipolar depressive illness in which at least one member of the family has unipolar depression and at least one other first degree relative has alcoholism and/or antisocial personality; using this definition, 14 depression spectrum disease families are studied. Assuming, among other things, that variability in age of onset is environmentally caused and lognormally distributed, segregation analysis shows that the data are compatible with the dichotomy of 'affected' versus 'not affected' being due to an autosomal dominant gene. A simple environmental hypothesis in which the transmission of the illness does not depend upon the parents' type could be rejected (p less than 0.001). Linkage analysis is performed by the method of maximum likelihood, taking the best fitting Mendelian model found in the segregation analysis. The results show virtually no evidence of linkage between depression spectrum disease and C3, but suggestive evidence (lod score = 1.03) of linkage between depression spectrum disease and alpha-haptoglobin (both these linkages were previously suggested by significant results in sib-pair analyses).", "contents": "Possible linkage between alpha-haptoglobin (Hp) and depression spectrum disease. Depression spectrum disease is an unipolar depressive illness in which at least one member of the family has unipolar depression and at least one other first degree relative has alcoholism and/or antisocial personality; using this definition, 14 depression spectrum disease families are studied. Assuming, among other things, that variability in age of onset is environmentally caused and lognormally distributed, segregation analysis shows that the data are compatible with the dichotomy of 'affected' versus 'not affected' being due to an autosomal dominant gene. A simple environmental hypothesis in which the transmission of the illness does not depend upon the parents' type could be rejected (p less than 0.001). Linkage analysis is performed by the method of maximum likelihood, taking the best fitting Mendelian model found in the segregation analysis. The results show virtually no evidence of linkage between depression spectrum disease and C3, but suggestive evidence (lod score = 1.03) of linkage between depression spectrum disease and alpha-haptoglobin (both these linkages were previously suggested by significant results in sib-pair analyses).", "PMID": 431798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_874", "title": "HL-A antigens and the response to prophylactic lithium.", "content": "82 consecutive patients checked at the out-patient clinic of the Psychiatric Department of the Ume\u00e5 University were typed for HL-A antigens. The patients belonged to the diagnostic subgroups: bipolar (manic-depressive) psychosis (n = 33), unipolar recurrent depressive psychosis (n = 29) and cycloid psychosis (n = 20) and all had been on lithium treatment for at least 6 months. By comparing the group of those who did not relapse on lithium therapy (n = 48) with the group of those who did relapse (n = 34) there was a significantly higher frequency of the HL-A A3 antigens among those who did relapse, and none of those who did not relapse were found to have the HL-A B18 antigens. The results suggest a possible interference between HL-A antigens and response to lithium treatment. However, a large number of antigens were tested and a small number of patients.", "contents": "HL-A antigens and the response to prophylactic lithium. 82 consecutive patients checked at the out-patient clinic of the Psychiatric Department of the Ume\u00e5 University were typed for HL-A antigens. The patients belonged to the diagnostic subgroups: bipolar (manic-depressive) psychosis (n = 33), unipolar recurrent depressive psychosis (n = 29) and cycloid psychosis (n = 20) and all had been on lithium treatment for at least 6 months. By comparing the group of those who did not relapse on lithium therapy (n = 48) with the group of those who did relapse (n = 34) there was a significantly higher frequency of the HL-A A3 antigens among those who did relapse, and none of those who did not relapse were found to have the HL-A B18 antigens. The results suggest a possible interference between HL-A antigens and response to lithium treatment. However, a large number of antigens were tested and a small number of patients.", "PMID": 431799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_875", "title": "Suicide in the Lundby study: a comparative investigation of clinical aspects.", "content": "28 cases of suicide committed in a Swedish population subjected to repeated psychiatric investigations are described. Two groups of controls were selected from the same population: sex- and age-matched living persons (normal group) and sex-matched persons who had died from organic disease at ages corresponding to those at which the individuals in the suicide group had taken their lives (deceased group). The three groups were compared concerning clinical circumstances regarded to have been of importance for the final suicidal act. Interest was focused on events that had occurred during the year prior to suicide. Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed in 93% of the suicide group, in 60% of the deceased group, and in 32% of the normal group. Depression was the main diagnosis (50%) in the suicide group, organic brain syndrome in decreased and normals. Medical advice was sought more often (75%) by the suicide group than by normal controls (34%) and about equally often as by the deceased control (84%). 10 of the suicide persons with depressive illness had never seen a psychiatrist.", "contents": "Suicide in the Lundby study: a comparative investigation of clinical aspects. 28 cases of suicide committed in a Swedish population subjected to repeated psychiatric investigations are described. Two groups of controls were selected from the same population: sex- and age-matched living persons (normal group) and sex-matched persons who had died from organic disease at ages corresponding to those at which the individuals in the suicide group had taken their lives (deceased group). The three groups were compared concerning clinical circumstances regarded to have been of importance for the final suicidal act. Interest was focused on events that had occurred during the year prior to suicide. Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed in 93% of the suicide group, in 60% of the deceased group, and in 32% of the normal group. Depression was the main diagnosis (50%) in the suicide group, organic brain syndrome in decreased and normals. Medical advice was sought more often (75%) by the suicide group than by normal controls (34%) and about equally often as by the deceased control (84%). 10 of the suicide persons with depressive illness had never seen a psychiatrist.", "PMID": 431800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_876", "title": "Prediction of antidepressant responses to imipramine.", "content": "45 patients hospitalized for depression who had received double-blind trials with imipramine were examined for possible associations between pretreatment responses to the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and their behaviorally-rated responses to this drug. Each patient was randomly assigned to one of two groups with the restriction that the number of responders and nonresponders be balanced for sex. Results from the group A patients suggest that responders and nonresponders to imipramine were best identified by using two sex-specific, empirically-derived, MMPI scales. In contrast, 12 of 13 regular validity and clinical scales and all 49 of the selected special scales of the MMPI failed to separate responders from nonresponders. In the cross-validation study with the group B patients, we were able to predict female and male responders from nonresponders by the new imipramine response scale with accuracy rates of 93 and 100%, respectively. The implications of these results are discussed.", "contents": "Prediction of antidepressant responses to imipramine. 45 patients hospitalized for depression who had received double-blind trials with imipramine were examined for possible associations between pretreatment responses to the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and their behaviorally-rated responses to this drug. Each patient was randomly assigned to one of two groups with the restriction that the number of responders and nonresponders be balanced for sex. Results from the group A patients suggest that responders and nonresponders to imipramine were best identified by using two sex-specific, empirically-derived, MMPI scales. In contrast, 12 of 13 regular validity and clinical scales and all 49 of the selected special scales of the MMPI failed to separate responders from nonresponders. In the cross-validation study with the group B patients, we were able to predict female and male responders from nonresponders by the new imipramine response scale with accuracy rates of 93 and 100%, respectively. The implications of these results are discussed.", "PMID": 431801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_877", "title": "Effect of clozapine on apomorphine-induced growth hormone secretion and serum prolactin concentrations in schizophrenia.", "content": "Clozapine had no effect on basal serum growth hormone concentrations in 10 schizophrenic patients but significantly inhibited the apomorphine-induced growth hormone increase that occurred in 7 subjects. Clozapine caused a slight (17%) but significant elevation in basal serum prolactin levels. These data suggest that in man clozapine, like other neuroleptics, blocks dopamine receptors, at least in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.", "contents": "Effect of clozapine on apomorphine-induced growth hormone secretion and serum prolactin concentrations in schizophrenia. Clozapine had no effect on basal serum growth hormone concentrations in 10 schizophrenic patients but significantly inhibited the apomorphine-induced growth hormone increase that occurred in 7 subjects. Clozapine caused a slight (17%) but significant elevation in basal serum prolactin levels. These data suggest that in man clozapine, like other neuroleptics, blocks dopamine receptors, at least in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.", "PMID": 431802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_878", "title": "Functional interhemispheric differences in relation to various psychopathological components of the depressive syndromes. A pilot international study.", "content": "Previous investigations from our laboratory have suggested a possible interhemispheric difference in brain functioning in relation to the severity of a depressive psychopathological process. The present study has been carried out to extend the previous findings to comprise a more detailed symptom analysis of the depressive syndrome, several EEG characteristics, and a new method of EEG analysis. 22 depressed patients, most of them previously untreated, participated in the study. The patients were rated by means of a highly reliable rating scale for depression, and an EEG record was obtained from each of them. Analysis of possible relationships among clinical symptoms and EEG characteristics from different parts of the brain showed a complex pattern, quite different for each symptom. First when a systemic structural analysis of the EEG was performed by means of a special computer program, differential EEG syndromes could be identified. Patients with a high level of anxiety-depression showed a more pronounced functional involvement of the left precentral region than less severely ill patients.", "contents": "Functional interhemispheric differences in relation to various psychopathological components of the depressive syndromes. A pilot international study. Previous investigations from our laboratory have suggested a possible interhemispheric difference in brain functioning in relation to the severity of a depressive psychopathological process. The present study has been carried out to extend the previous findings to comprise a more detailed symptom analysis of the depressive syndrome, several EEG characteristics, and a new method of EEG analysis. 22 depressed patients, most of them previously untreated, participated in the study. The patients were rated by means of a highly reliable rating scale for depression, and an EEG record was obtained from each of them. Analysis of possible relationships among clinical symptoms and EEG characteristics from different parts of the brain showed a complex pattern, quite different for each symptom. First when a systemic structural analysis of the EEG was performed by means of a special computer program, differential EEG syndromes could be identified. Patients with a high level of anxiety-depression showed a more pronounced functional involvement of the left precentral region than less severely ill patients.", "PMID": 431803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_879", "title": "Mortality on lithium.", "content": "A register of patients receiving lithium in the Edinburgh and Lothian area of Scotland has been kept by the Medical Research Council Brain Metabolism Unit since 1967. Using this register, information was obtained on 784 patients receiving lithium for a period of up to 115 months (97.4% of the population available for study). 33 patients died during the period of study due predominantly to cardiovascular causes or to suicide. There was nothing to suggest that long-term exposure caused more deaths than short-term exposure and the pattern of mortality resembled that found in other studies of manic-depressive illness, i.e. the majority of deaths occurred in the early stages of follow-up.", "contents": "Mortality on lithium. A register of patients receiving lithium in the Edinburgh and Lothian area of Scotland has been kept by the Medical Research Council Brain Metabolism Unit since 1967. Using this register, information was obtained on 784 patients receiving lithium for a period of up to 115 months (97.4% of the population available for study). 33 patients died during the period of study due predominantly to cardiovascular causes or to suicide. There was nothing to suggest that long-term exposure caused more deaths than short-term exposure and the pattern of mortality resembled that found in other studies of manic-depressive illness, i.e. the majority of deaths occurred in the early stages of follow-up.", "PMID": 431804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_880", "title": "[Contribution to the study of \"wet lung\". Radiological and clinico-functional changes induced by depletion therapy in 5 patients with chronic bronchopulmonary disease].", "content": "The Authors consider the global evaluation of clinical and functional data in patients with the following radiological features: 1) X-ray thoracic aspects characterized by marked broncho-vascular bundles and diffusion of reticular nodulation as in diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis; 2) lack of ECG and clinical signs of heart failure. Since a reversibility of radiological alterations was considered a favourable reply to bleeding and diuretic acute and long term therapy the Authors suggest that these patterns should be related to a different distribution of hydric and haematic masses with a decreasing of interstitial pulmonary oedema which contributes to a full interlobar septa like \"D\" lines shadows, according to Kreel, (1975). The Authors, moreover, relate these clinical, functional and radiological aspects to the patterns of \"wet lung\" distinguished from the cardiac lung caused by congestive heart failure and from interstitial lung fibrosis.", "contents": "[Contribution to the study of \"wet lung\". Radiological and clinico-functional changes induced by depletion therapy in 5 patients with chronic bronchopulmonary disease]. The Authors consider the global evaluation of clinical and functional data in patients with the following radiological features: 1) X-ray thoracic aspects characterized by marked broncho-vascular bundles and diffusion of reticular nodulation as in diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis; 2) lack of ECG and clinical signs of heart failure. Since a reversibility of radiological alterations was considered a favourable reply to bleeding and diuretic acute and long term therapy the Authors suggest that these patterns should be related to a different distribution of hydric and haematic masses with a decreasing of interstitial pulmonary oedema which contributes to a full interlobar septa like \"D\" lines shadows, according to Kreel, (1975). The Authors, moreover, relate these clinical, functional and radiological aspects to the patterns of \"wet lung\" distinguished from the cardiac lung caused by congestive heart failure and from interstitial lung fibrosis.", "PMID": 431831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_881", "title": "[Plasma ion changes in venous blood incubated with beta receptor blockers and subjected to tonometry in vitro. 1. Study using propranolol].", "content": "The Authors considered the variations in electrolyte plasmatic assessment in blood samples incubated \"in vitro\" with propranolol (48 gamma/10 cc) and part of sample incubated with propranolol and theophyllin-ethilandiamin. The evaluation of electrolyte assessment was performed at 20'-40'-60' after tonometration. Sodium and potassium values increase in the samples with the beta-blocking agent and are statistically significant only after 20'; in further controls the increasing values persist. Chloride rises too, marked by a low statistic significance. No variations were observed in samples incubated also with propranolol and antiphosphodiestherasic agent. The Authors suggest trat data should confirm ionic transport blockage across the red cell membrane obtained with theophylline.", "contents": "[Plasma ion changes in venous blood incubated with beta receptor blockers and subjected to tonometry in vitro. 1. Study using propranolol]. The Authors considered the variations in electrolyte plasmatic assessment in blood samples incubated \"in vitro\" with propranolol (48 gamma/10 cc) and part of sample incubated with propranolol and theophyllin-ethilandiamin. The evaluation of electrolyte assessment was performed at 20'-40'-60' after tonometration. Sodium and potassium values increase in the samples with the beta-blocking agent and are statistically significant only after 20'; in further controls the increasing values persist. Chloride rises too, marked by a low statistic significance. No variations were observed in samples incubated also with propranolol and antiphosphodiestherasic agent. The Authors suggest trat data should confirm ionic transport blockage across the red cell membrane obtained with theophylline.", "PMID": 431832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_882", "title": "[Physiopathological and clinical data on post-hypercapnic metabolic alkalosis. A case of severe hypercapnia treated with drugs and in an \"iron lung\"].", "content": "The Authors produce a further contribution on metabolic post-hypercapnic alkalosis on the basis of clinical observation of a patient with severe hypercapnia and respiratory failure undergoing intensive care as well as treatment with iron lung (Pulmolife). The improvement of respiratory acid-base umbalance was associated with alteration of electrolytic assessment, especially of the plasmatic chloride ratio. The Authors consider this remark as a starting point for a physiopathological pattern and a more complete analysis of the pathways which generate the metabolic post-hypercapnic alkalosis condition in such patients.", "contents": "[Physiopathological and clinical data on post-hypercapnic metabolic alkalosis. A case of severe hypercapnia treated with drugs and in an \"iron lung\"]. The Authors produce a further contribution on metabolic post-hypercapnic alkalosis on the basis of clinical observation of a patient with severe hypercapnia and respiratory failure undergoing intensive care as well as treatment with iron lung (Pulmolife). The improvement of respiratory acid-base umbalance was associated with alteration of electrolytic assessment, especially of the plasmatic chloride ratio. The Authors consider this remark as a starting point for a physiopathological pattern and a more complete analysis of the pathways which generate the metabolic post-hypercapnic alkalosis condition in such patients.", "PMID": 431833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_883", "title": "[Changes in the acid-base equilibrium and the water-electrolyte balance during maximum aerobic work in patients with chronic broncho-pulmonary disease].", "content": "The Authors studied the behaviour of acid-base balance in subjects with chronic obstructive lung disease undergoing Maximal Aerobic Work following the method of Pasargiklian e Coll., 1955. For the research two different experimental pattern were adopted: 1) patients were subjected, in two different sessions, to the muscular work in room air and in hyperoxia (60%) breathing for the evaluation of acid-base balance. During hyperoxia Authors observed rising of paO2 and decrease of paCO2, pH and lactic acid concentration. 2) In the second pattern the muscular test was performed in room air only with the use of an antiphosphodiesterasic drug e.v. administration in each patient. Together with acid-base balance behaviour of plasmatic electrolytic assessment was controlled in order to evaluate adaptation to work. The data, although preliminary, show an increase of paO2 with decrease of paCO2 in both test; potassium and bicarbonates concentration increase more in the first test without theophyllin whereas this drug forbid these increments. The Authors even if the experimental program must be developed suggest that the evaluation of these data is interesting in diagnosis and prognosis in chronic lung disease for the cellular adaptation to work and offers interesting elements to carry on the rehabilitation of chronic obstructive lung disease.", "contents": "[Changes in the acid-base equilibrium and the water-electrolyte balance during maximum aerobic work in patients with chronic broncho-pulmonary disease]. The Authors studied the behaviour of acid-base balance in subjects with chronic obstructive lung disease undergoing Maximal Aerobic Work following the method of Pasargiklian e Coll., 1955. For the research two different experimental pattern were adopted: 1) patients were subjected, in two different sessions, to the muscular work in room air and in hyperoxia (60%) breathing for the evaluation of acid-base balance. During hyperoxia Authors observed rising of paO2 and decrease of paCO2, pH and lactic acid concentration. 2) In the second pattern the muscular test was performed in room air only with the use of an antiphosphodiesterasic drug e.v. administration in each patient. Together with acid-base balance behaviour of plasmatic electrolytic assessment was controlled in order to evaluate adaptation to work. The data, although preliminary, show an increase of paO2 with decrease of paCO2 in both test; potassium and bicarbonates concentration increase more in the first test without theophyllin whereas this drug forbid these increments. The Authors even if the experimental program must be developed suggest that the evaluation of these data is interesting in diagnosis and prognosis in chronic lung disease for the cellular adaptation to work and offers interesting elements to carry on the rehabilitation of chronic obstructive lung disease.", "PMID": 431834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_884", "title": "[The use of oral potassium chloride (BS 560) in the treatment of mixed acid-base imbalance in patients with chronic broncho-pulmonary diseases].", "content": "The Authors, after giving an outline of metabolic alterations on acid-base balance in chronic obstructive lung disease, describe the need of correction of electrolytic umbalance, signally in relationship to metabolic alkalosis dued to hypochloremia. The Authors emphasize the importance of correction of jonic balance during long term therapy in such patients, especially diuretic and steroid long term treatment. The Authors studied the comparative effects on jonic assessment by correction with potassium chloride e.v. and potassium chloride by oral administration with a new capsulate preparation, (BS 560). Last they underline the good tolerance of this preparation and report the favourable effects on electrolytic patterns.", "contents": "[The use of oral potassium chloride (BS 560) in the treatment of mixed acid-base imbalance in patients with chronic broncho-pulmonary diseases]. The Authors, after giving an outline of metabolic alterations on acid-base balance in chronic obstructive lung disease, describe the need of correction of electrolytic umbalance, signally in relationship to metabolic alkalosis dued to hypochloremia. The Authors emphasize the importance of correction of jonic balance during long term therapy in such patients, especially diuretic and steroid long term treatment. The Authors studied the comparative effects on jonic assessment by correction with potassium chloride e.v. and potassium chloride by oral administration with a new capsulate preparation, (BS 560). Last they underline the good tolerance of this preparation and report the favourable effects on electrolytic patterns.", "PMID": 431835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_885", "title": "[Medical treatment of hyperammoniemia in the elderly. Controlled clinical study].", "content": "After considering the physiopathological mechanisms of ammoniac metabolism and the different causes of hyperammonaemia in subjects whose organisms present the weak biological equilibrium of the elderly, the antiammonaemic activity of gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid and that of arginine have been compared in a controlled double-blind trial. 45 old patients suffering from hepatic insufficiency characterized by hyperammonaemia and correlated neurological symptomatology have been treated. The subjects, subdivided at random into groups of 15, were treated for an average of 8.8 days with gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid, arginine and placebo presented in identical 500 ml bottles. The posology of the active ingredients ranged form a maximum of 25 g to a minimum of 10 g. The results obtained show that gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid and arginine has significantly greater antiammonemic activity than placebo and that gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid is significantly more effective than arginine. As regards the improvement in neuropsychic symptomatology, the clear superiority of gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid versus both arginine and placebo non evident.", "contents": "[Medical treatment of hyperammoniemia in the elderly. Controlled clinical study]. After considering the physiopathological mechanisms of ammoniac metabolism and the different causes of hyperammonaemia in subjects whose organisms present the weak biological equilibrium of the elderly, the antiammonaemic activity of gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid and that of arginine have been compared in a controlled double-blind trial. 45 old patients suffering from hepatic insufficiency characterized by hyperammonaemia and correlated neurological symptomatology have been treated. The subjects, subdivided at random into groups of 15, were treated for an average of 8.8 days with gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid, arginine and placebo presented in identical 500 ml bottles. The posology of the active ingredients ranged form a maximum of 25 g to a minimum of 10 g. The results obtained show that gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid and arginine has significantly greater antiammonemic activity than placebo and that gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid is significantly more effective than arginine. As regards the improvement in neuropsychic symptomatology, the clear superiority of gamma-ethylester of glutamic acid versus both arginine and placebo non evident.", "PMID": 431837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_886", "title": "[The hyposmolar-hyponatremic syndrome in hepatic cirrhosis. Possible role of ADH].", "content": "Following some remarks on the hyposomolar-hyponatraemic syndrome and on the formation of free water, the possible aetiopathogenetic mechanisms of hyponatraemia in ascitogenous cirrhosis of the liver and in particular the role of ADH are considered. 3 cases out of 18 suffering from ascitic phase cirrhosis in whom inability to produce free water was accompanied by conserved urinary excretion of sodium are reported. One explanation might be the intervention of ADH or of an antidiuretic substance.", "contents": "[The hyposmolar-hyponatremic syndrome in hepatic cirrhosis. Possible role of ADH]. Following some remarks on the hyposomolar-hyponatraemic syndrome and on the formation of free water, the possible aetiopathogenetic mechanisms of hyponatraemia in ascitogenous cirrhosis of the liver and in particular the role of ADH are considered. 3 cases out of 18 suffering from ascitic phase cirrhosis in whom inability to produce free water was accompanied by conserved urinary excretion of sodium are reported. One explanation might be the intervention of ADH or of an antidiuretic substance.", "PMID": 431839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_887", "title": "[Pesticides in rural pathology].", "content": "Reference is made to the extensive use of pesticides in agriculture and the fact that many are highly toxic. The lack of information and legislative provisions makes agricultural workers particularly vulnerable to the several categories of poisons contained under the description \"pesticides\". The chlorinated and phosphoric organic compounds are of especial interest. The former include the derivatives of the phenoxycarboxylic acids, which can give rise to a product (tetrachlorobenzodioxine, or dioxine) that was responsible for the pollution at Seveso. The latter group contains the very commonly employed alkylthiophosphates (malathion, parathion, etc.). These are well-known inhibitors of acetylcholine esterase and thus responsible for harm to the nervous system. A comparable, but less intense effect on this esterase is possessed by the carbamates, which are increasingly being used in agriculture. It is hoped that, as in the past, suitable, oriented epidemiological surveys will be carried out in industry, designed to focus attention on the probable, but not yet documented chronic damage that many of these products cause to the human body.", "contents": "[Pesticides in rural pathology]. Reference is made to the extensive use of pesticides in agriculture and the fact that many are highly toxic. The lack of information and legislative provisions makes agricultural workers particularly vulnerable to the several categories of poisons contained under the description \"pesticides\". The chlorinated and phosphoric organic compounds are of especial interest. The former include the derivatives of the phenoxycarboxylic acids, which can give rise to a product (tetrachlorobenzodioxine, or dioxine) that was responsible for the pollution at Seveso. The latter group contains the very commonly employed alkylthiophosphates (malathion, parathion, etc.). These are well-known inhibitors of acetylcholine esterase and thus responsible for harm to the nervous system. A comparable, but less intense effect on this esterase is possessed by the carbamates, which are increasingly being used in agriculture. It is hoped that, as in the past, suitable, oriented epidemiological surveys will be carried out in industry, designed to focus attention on the probable, but not yet documented chronic damage that many of these products cause to the human body.", "PMID": 431841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_888", "title": "[Hypouricemia and xanthinuria. Observation of 3 cases].", "content": "The Authors refer about three cases of asymptomatic xanthinuria pointed out after the discovery of very low serum uric acid levels (below 1 mg/100 ml). The above-mentioned cases come out from 137.194 evaluation of serum uric acid carried out in a period of about four years. The values of serum and urinary uric acid and those of total oxypurines in urine of same kinsmen of the three patients have been evaluated; all these values were in the normal range.", "contents": "[Hypouricemia and xanthinuria. Observation of 3 cases]. The Authors refer about three cases of asymptomatic xanthinuria pointed out after the discovery of very low serum uric acid levels (below 1 mg/100 ml). The above-mentioned cases come out from 137.194 evaluation of serum uric acid carried out in a period of about four years. The values of serum and urinary uric acid and those of total oxypurines in urine of same kinsmen of the three patients have been evaluated; all these values were in the normal range.", "PMID": 431842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_889", "title": "[Importance of the analysis of the carcinoembryonic antigen in clinical oncology].", "content": "330 patients (126 with gastric neoplasms, 204 with large bowel carcinoma) were submitted to serial assays to evaluate the possible relations between C.E.A. levels, pathologic stage and histologictype of the neoplasm and to define the usefulness of the C.E.A. test in monitoring the followup of the patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms. From our experience it ensues that C.E.A. test positivity (C.E.A. greater than or equal to 5 ng/ml, according to the method employed) is higher in colon neoplasms in comparison with gastric neoplasms, in the adenocarcinomas compared with the anaplastic forms. Besides, the study of the relationship with the pathologic stage points out the scanty usefulness of the C.E.A. test in the early diagnosis of gastroenteric neoplasms (Dukes A-B-C1 = 29.2%; CH stage = 88.1%). The use of C.E.A. test during the follow up seemed us of fundamental importance. We observed that: a) after radical surgery, 72% of the patients showed a normalization of C.E.A. values; b) there is a significant relationship between clinical course and C.E.A. as it can predict, sometimes several months earlier, the occurrence of relapses and metastases; c) there is also a close relationship (P less than 0.001) between the modifications of the antigen under chemotherapy and the clinical response. At present, C.E.A. seems to play, above all, fundamental role in choosing a correct treatment after radical surgery or in modifying the chemotherapeutic treatment in non surgical cases or in non radically resected patients.", "contents": "[Importance of the analysis of the carcinoembryonic antigen in clinical oncology]. 330 patients (126 with gastric neoplasms, 204 with large bowel carcinoma) were submitted to serial assays to evaluate the possible relations between C.E.A. levels, pathologic stage and histologictype of the neoplasm and to define the usefulness of the C.E.A. test in monitoring the followup of the patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms. From our experience it ensues that C.E.A. test positivity (C.E.A. greater than or equal to 5 ng/ml, according to the method employed) is higher in colon neoplasms in comparison with gastric neoplasms, in the adenocarcinomas compared with the anaplastic forms. Besides, the study of the relationship with the pathologic stage points out the scanty usefulness of the C.E.A. test in the early diagnosis of gastroenteric neoplasms (Dukes A-B-C1 = 29.2%; CH stage = 88.1%). The use of C.E.A. test during the follow up seemed us of fundamental importance. We observed that: a) after radical surgery, 72% of the patients showed a normalization of C.E.A. values; b) there is a significant relationship between clinical course and C.E.A. as it can predict, sometimes several months earlier, the occurrence of relapses and metastases; c) there is also a close relationship (P less than 0.001) between the modifications of the antigen under chemotherapy and the clinical response. At present, C.E.A. seems to play, above all, fundamental role in choosing a correct treatment after radical surgery or in modifying the chemotherapeutic treatment in non surgical cases or in non radically resected patients.", "PMID": 431843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_890", "title": "[The behavior of the a and the t indices and the systolic times in myocardial infarct].", "content": "A study of the behaviour of the a and telediastolic indices and systolic times in patients presenting the sequelae of myocardial infarction is reported. It is pointed out that the earliness of a and t index variations with respect to those of systolic times is an indication of the sensitivity of the investigation which offers invaluable pointers to subsequent treatment. It is also stressed that previous hypertension and/or coronaropathy are more important than the infarction itself in creating dyskinetic zones of the myocardium and, consequently, the haemodynamic changes observed with phonomechanocardiography.", "contents": "[The behavior of the a and the t indices and the systolic times in myocardial infarct]. A study of the behaviour of the a and telediastolic indices and systolic times in patients presenting the sequelae of myocardial infarction is reported. It is pointed out that the earliness of a and t index variations with respect to those of systolic times is an indication of the sensitivity of the investigation which offers invaluable pointers to subsequent treatment. It is also stressed that previous hypertension and/or coronaropathy are more important than the infarction itself in creating dyskinetic zones of the myocardium and, consequently, the haemodynamic changes observed with phonomechanocardiography.", "PMID": 431844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_891", "title": "[The organization of diagnostic exercise tests in a provincial general hospital].", "content": "The approach to the diagnostic effort test recently recommended by the A.N.M.C.O. is discussed. The cost of equipment and staff required are examined. Precise data regarding the cost of such a unit in the cardiology department are given and stress is laid on the advisability of confining its use to cases in which clinico-historical investigation and preliminary clinical evaluation point to it as indispensable for cardiology diagnosis.", "contents": "[The organization of diagnostic exercise tests in a provincial general hospital]. The approach to the diagnostic effort test recently recommended by the A.N.M.C.O. is discussed. The cost of equipment and staff required are examined. Precise data regarding the cost of such a unit in the cardiology department are given and stress is laid on the advisability of confining its use to cases in which clinico-historical investigation and preliminary clinical evaluation point to it as indispensable for cardiology diagnosis.", "PMID": 431845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_892", "title": "[Atrial electric stimulation via the esophagus. A promising new method].", "content": "Experience acquired in the electrical stimulation of the atrium via the oesophagus in 18 consecutive cases ir presented. An account is given of the technique and the results obtained. These confirm the reliability and simplicity of execution of the entire diagnostic procedure.", "contents": "[Atrial electric stimulation via the esophagus. A promising new method]. Experience acquired in the electrical stimulation of the atrium via the oesophagus in 18 consecutive cases ir presented. An account is given of the technique and the results obtained. These confirm the reliability and simplicity of execution of the entire diagnostic procedure.", "PMID": 431846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_893", "title": "[The effect of a beta blocker on various manifestations of hypermetabolism and hypersympathicotonia].", "content": "The possible mechanism and the therapeutic activity of a beta-blocking drug (propranolol) in 50 patients with slight \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"dysthyroidism\" are examined. In most cases, the laboratory findings were :1) increase (sometimes considerable) of basal metabolism (up to 70% or more); 2) normal, or nearly normal, thyroid scan, iodoproteinaemia, T3 and T4; 3) therapeutic iodine improvement. Prior to the introduction of scanning, these cases would have been classed as \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"dysthyroidism\". Observation of a normal scan picture, however, throws doubt on such a diagnosis. Cases have, in fact, been noted in which the syndrome was accompanied by normal RU T3, but a marked increase in RIA T3. Since the latter is five times more active, it might be supposed that its increases was responsible for the symptoms, i.e. there could be an increase in T3 activity, even though its quantity was still within normal limits. In other words, there may be cases of genuine hyperthyroidism due to such a proportional rise in RIA T3. Propranolol had a beneficial effect on a series of manifestations that can be described as \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"hypersympathicotonia\".", "contents": "[The effect of a beta blocker on various manifestations of hypermetabolism and hypersympathicotonia]. The possible mechanism and the therapeutic activity of a beta-blocking drug (propranolol) in 50 patients with slight \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"dysthyroidism\" are examined. In most cases, the laboratory findings were :1) increase (sometimes considerable) of basal metabolism (up to 70% or more); 2) normal, or nearly normal, thyroid scan, iodoproteinaemia, T3 and T4; 3) therapeutic iodine improvement. Prior to the introduction of scanning, these cases would have been classed as \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"dysthyroidism\". Observation of a normal scan picture, however, throws doubt on such a diagnosis. Cases have, in fact, been noted in which the syndrome was accompanied by normal RU T3, but a marked increase in RIA T3. Since the latter is five times more active, it might be supposed that its increases was responsible for the symptoms, i.e. there could be an increase in T3 activity, even though its quantity was still within normal limits. In other words, there may be cases of genuine hyperthyroidism due to such a proportional rise in RIA T3. Propranolol had a beneficial effect on a series of manifestations that can be described as \"hyperthyroidism\" or \"hypersympathicotonia\".", "PMID": 431848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_894", "title": "[Trigeminal neuralgia. Classical clinical and therapeutic aspects. Advantages of a modern method: controlled differential heat coagulation].", "content": "The main clinical aspects of essential trigeminal neuralgia are reported and traditional medical and surgical therapy reviewed. Results obtained in 114 patients treated with a modern method, controlled differential thermocoagulation, are then analysed. This consists of percutaneous infiltration of Gasser's ganglion and/or retrogasserian roots and in causing thermolesions by means of radiofrequency, i.e. using constantly controlled and steadily increasing temperatures which selectively damage the finer painful facial fibres without affecting the more resistant tactile fibres. While the principal advantage of this method lies in the elimination of pain with partial saving of facial tactile sensitivity, other practical advantages are of no less importance: these include the fact that the method is so harmless that all patients, even those of advanced age, could leave hospital at the latest one day after treatment.", "contents": "[Trigeminal neuralgia. Classical clinical and therapeutic aspects. Advantages of a modern method: controlled differential heat coagulation]. The main clinical aspects of essential trigeminal neuralgia are reported and traditional medical and surgical therapy reviewed. Results obtained in 114 patients treated with a modern method, controlled differential thermocoagulation, are then analysed. This consists of percutaneous infiltration of Gasser's ganglion and/or retrogasserian roots and in causing thermolesions by means of radiofrequency, i.e. using constantly controlled and steadily increasing temperatures which selectively damage the finer painful facial fibres without affecting the more resistant tactile fibres. While the principal advantage of this method lies in the elimination of pain with partial saving of facial tactile sensitivity, other practical advantages are of no less importance: these include the fact that the method is so harmless that all patients, even those of advanced age, could leave hospital at the latest one day after treatment.", "PMID": 431859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_895", "title": "[Scintigraphy of the bile ducts by means of the Tc-99m-acid N-(2,6 diethyl-acetanilide) iminodiacetic acid in pediatrics].", "content": "Results with diethyl-IDA in the diagnosis of dilatation and obstruction of the bile ducts are reported. By comparison with methyl-IDA, the more rapid blood clearance and slower renal excretion of diethyl-IDA do not lead to interference on the part of the right kidney and ureter during the first 30' of scintiscanning. The preparation was employed in 15 subjects with persistent neonatal icterus and clinically suspected diseases of the hepatic bile ducts. Personal experience is cited for the view that, thanks to its almost exclusively biliary excretion and high bile concentration, 99mTc-labelled diethyl-IDA gives better visualisation of the bile ducts than the methyl-IDA complex.", "contents": "[Scintigraphy of the bile ducts by means of the Tc-99m-acid N-(2,6 diethyl-acetanilide) iminodiacetic acid in pediatrics]. Results with diethyl-IDA in the diagnosis of dilatation and obstruction of the bile ducts are reported. By comparison with methyl-IDA, the more rapid blood clearance and slower renal excretion of diethyl-IDA do not lead to interference on the part of the right kidney and ureter during the first 30' of scintiscanning. The preparation was employed in 15 subjects with persistent neonatal icterus and clinically suspected diseases of the hepatic bile ducts. Personal experience is cited for the view that, thanks to its almost exclusively biliary excretion and high bile concentration, 99mTc-labelled diethyl-IDA gives better visualisation of the bile ducts than the methyl-IDA complex.", "PMID": 431860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_896", "title": "[Automatic method for the evaluation of the extent of myocardial infarct from the serum of CPK curve].", "content": "An off-line system for calculating the extent of infarct from serial serum CPK determinations based on Sobel et al.'s compartmental model is presented. Results in 40 patients with acute infarct in a coronary unit showed that the index of infarct extent had an appreciable prognostic significance. Employment of the MB isoenzyme in the calculation could, it is felt improve the sensitivity of the method.", "contents": "[Automatic method for the evaluation of the extent of myocardial infarct from the serum of CPK curve]. An off-line system for calculating the extent of infarct from serial serum CPK determinations based on Sobel et al.'s compartmental model is presented. Results in 40 patients with acute infarct in a coronary unit showed that the index of infarct extent had an appreciable prognostic significance. Employment of the MB isoenzyme in the calculation could, it is felt improve the sensitivity of the method.", "PMID": 431862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_897", "title": "[Clinical use of DDAVP in a case of familial hypothalamo-pituitary diabetes insipidus].", "content": "The effectiveness of 1-deamino-8-d-arginine-vasopressin (DDAVP) has been evaluated in a case of insipid hypothalamo-hypophyseal familial diabetes. The polyuric-poly-dipsic syndrome was well controlled and there were no notalbe side-effects. The advantages of this treatment in comparison with more traditional methods are underlined.", "contents": "[Clinical use of DDAVP in a case of familial hypothalamo-pituitary diabetes insipidus]. The effectiveness of 1-deamino-8-d-arginine-vasopressin (DDAVP) has been evaluated in a case of insipid hypothalamo-hypophyseal familial diabetes. The polyuric-poly-dipsic syndrome was well controlled and there were no notalbe side-effects. The advantages of this treatment in comparison with more traditional methods are underlined.", "PMID": 431863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_898", "title": "[Hemolytic crisis due to a G-6-PD deficiency during the course of viral hepatitis A].", "content": "Pathogenetic hypotheses regarding G-6-PD deficiency syndromes are reviewed and a case of viral hepatitis with concomitant haemolytic crisis due to a deficiency in this enzyme is reported. In agreement with other workers, it is noted that viral hepatitis may be one of a variety of factors triggering of the phenomenon and may in such cases present a more serious clinical course.", "contents": "[Hemolytic crisis due to a G-6-PD deficiency during the course of viral hepatitis A]. Pathogenetic hypotheses regarding G-6-PD deficiency syndromes are reviewed and a case of viral hepatitis with concomitant haemolytic crisis due to a deficiency in this enzyme is reported. In agreement with other workers, it is noted that viral hepatitis may be one of a variety of factors triggering of the phenomenon and may in such cases present a more serious clinical course.", "PMID": 431864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_899", "title": "[Mitral valve substitution, using the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis].", "content": "Personal experience acquired in the course of 177 mitral valve replacements with a Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis up to June 1977 is discussed. Intraoperative mortality was 8.5%. Postoperative mortality (as at 31-12-1976) was 5.3%. The clinical, radiological, and ergometric findings were fully satisfactory. Haemodynamic examination at rest and during effort revealed improved pressure and heart capacity values. The mean transprosthetic gradient at rest was 5.61 and rose to 13.53 (after uncalibrated effort). Thromboembolism was noted in 5 patients (3.1%), as in the literature. The haemodynamic features and low thrombogenicity of the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis would thus appear to make it a sound replacement for the mitral valve.", "contents": "[Mitral valve substitution, using the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis]. Personal experience acquired in the course of 177 mitral valve replacements with a Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis up to June 1977 is discussed. Intraoperative mortality was 8.5%. Postoperative mortality (as at 31-12-1976) was 5.3%. The clinical, radiological, and ergometric findings were fully satisfactory. Haemodynamic examination at rest and during effort revealed improved pressure and heart capacity values. The mean transprosthetic gradient at rest was 5.61 and rose to 13.53 (after uncalibrated effort). Thromboembolism was noted in 5 patients (3.1%), as in the literature. The haemodynamic features and low thrombogenicity of the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis would thus appear to make it a sound replacement for the mitral valve.", "PMID": 431865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_900", "title": "[Use of angiopneumography with Tc-99M in 2 cases of pneumopathy caused by anatomical defect].", "content": "A parallel study, using traditional angiopneumographic technique with iodate contrast medium and the radioisotopic technique employing 99MTc has been carried out in some cases of bronchopulmonary malformations due to anatomic defect. The purpose of this is to assess the angiographic performance at pulmonary circulation level of an extremely simple radioisotopic technique. Analysis of the two cases presented suggests that although radioisotopic angiopneumography presents lower resolution capacity for viewing small and medium lumen branches of the pulmonary artery, it has the advantage of associating the results of traditional angiopneumography with statis pulmonary scintigraphy in a single exploration. It is considered that this investigation can be used particularly in those patients with severe cardiorespiratory insufficiency, for whom the invasive technique presents some by no means inconsiderable risks.", "contents": "[Use of angiopneumography with Tc-99M in 2 cases of pneumopathy caused by anatomical defect]. A parallel study, using traditional angiopneumographic technique with iodate contrast medium and the radioisotopic technique employing 99MTc has been carried out in some cases of bronchopulmonary malformations due to anatomic defect. The purpose of this is to assess the angiographic performance at pulmonary circulation level of an extremely simple radioisotopic technique. Analysis of the two cases presented suggests that although radioisotopic angiopneumography presents lower resolution capacity for viewing small and medium lumen branches of the pulmonary artery, it has the advantage of associating the results of traditional angiopneumography with statis pulmonary scintigraphy in a single exploration. It is considered that this investigation can be used particularly in those patients with severe cardiorespiratory insufficiency, for whom the invasive technique presents some by no means inconsiderable risks.", "PMID": 431866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_901", "title": "[Antigens and antibodies in acute viral hepatitis caused by the B virus. Clinical significance].", "content": "Three antigen-antibody systems are so far known to be related to viral hepatitis type B. Tests for evidencing HBsAg and antiHBs are easily performed and important for the diagnosis, prevention and study of hepatitis B. The tests for evidencing HBcAg and HBc are still the subject of study and research. The presence of HBsAg in a subject shows he is hosting hepatitis B virus. It may also be present without hepatopathy or it may be associated with acute or chronic hepatitis B. At the present time there is no feasible way of eliminating the chronic carrier condition. The problem represented by healthy carriers as infection risks is currently under study.", "contents": "[Antigens and antibodies in acute viral hepatitis caused by the B virus. Clinical significance]. Three antigen-antibody systems are so far known to be related to viral hepatitis type B. Tests for evidencing HBsAg and antiHBs are easily performed and important for the diagnosis, prevention and study of hepatitis B. The tests for evidencing HBcAg and HBc are still the subject of study and research. The presence of HBsAg in a subject shows he is hosting hepatitis B virus. It may also be present without hepatopathy or it may be associated with acute or chronic hepatitis B. At the present time there is no feasible way of eliminating the chronic carrier condition. The problem represented by healthy carriers as infection risks is currently under study.", "PMID": 431867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_902", "title": "[A case of melanoderma erroneously considered to be addisonian].", "content": "A case characterized by a dark pigmentation of the skin with an initial hypotension and a lung tuberculosis in the remote anamnesis is described. The skin pigment was formed by lipofuscin and emosiderin, but only the former was found in the liver biopsy. Anyway, the pigment was not melanine and the surrenalic function of the patient was completely normal; therefore, an Addisonism syndrome is excluded. The patient was treated for a very long time with DOCA: this caused hypertension, probably supported by the hypervolemia triggered by the DOCA depending retenction of sodium and water. A sure diagnosis of the case was not made, but an Addisonism syndrome was certainly excluded.", "contents": "[A case of melanoderma erroneously considered to be addisonian]. A case characterized by a dark pigmentation of the skin with an initial hypotension and a lung tuberculosis in the remote anamnesis is described. The skin pigment was formed by lipofuscin and emosiderin, but only the former was found in the liver biopsy. Anyway, the pigment was not melanine and the surrenalic function of the patient was completely normal; therefore, an Addisonism syndrome is excluded. The patient was treated for a very long time with DOCA: this caused hypertension, probably supported by the hypervolemia triggered by the DOCA depending retenction of sodium and water. A sure diagnosis of the case was not made, but an Addisonism syndrome was certainly excluded.", "PMID": 431870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_903", "title": "[Chemotherapy of intestinal carcinomas].", "content": "It is not easy to weigh up therapeutic and toxic effects in the medical treatment of intestinal cancer. The number of drugs that have demonstrated certain activity in these forms is extremely limited, only 5 FU being definitely active and even this only in a small percentage of patients. 5 FU produces remission in some 20% of cases. It is highly probable that prophylactic treatment with 5 FU increases patient survival as reported by Regelson and other workers, but the resulting damage (hepatic, bone marrow, immunodepression, etc.) must also be assessed and the risk of a second neoplasia should not be forgotten. The personally used association of 5 FU and cyclophosphamide has proved active at least to the same extent as 5 FU alone, while toxic effects were not particularly important. Brilliant but unfortunately temporary results can be obtained by peritoneal PTC in peritoneal carcinomatosis. Good results with respect to the pain symptom have been obtained by associating 5 FU with radiotherapy in non-operable intestinal tumours.", "contents": "[Chemotherapy of intestinal carcinomas]. It is not easy to weigh up therapeutic and toxic effects in the medical treatment of intestinal cancer. The number of drugs that have demonstrated certain activity in these forms is extremely limited, only 5 FU being definitely active and even this only in a small percentage of patients. 5 FU produces remission in some 20% of cases. It is highly probable that prophylactic treatment with 5 FU increases patient survival as reported by Regelson and other workers, but the resulting damage (hepatic, bone marrow, immunodepression, etc.) must also be assessed and the risk of a second neoplasia should not be forgotten. The personally used association of 5 FU and cyclophosphamide has proved active at least to the same extent as 5 FU alone, while toxic effects were not particularly important. Brilliant but unfortunately temporary results can be obtained by peritoneal PTC in peritoneal carcinomatosis. Good results with respect to the pain symptom have been obtained by associating 5 FU with radiotherapy in non-operable intestinal tumours.", "PMID": 431873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_904", "title": "[Clinical and hormonal evaluation of recurrence of goiter after thyroidectomy].", "content": "The incidence and features of goitre recurrences were investigated in a sample population of patients operated at the University of Turin Endocrine Surgery Centre. The following parameters were examined: sex, age, familial history of goitre, number of pregnancies, T3 and T4 levels, and TSH levels. Attention is drawn to the finding of significantly higher TSH values in the patients operated for recurrent goitre than in a series of persons free of recurrences after they had been operated on for goitre. Other workers have made the same observation, which is therefore regarded as a pointer to the correct interpretation of the recurrence of goitre.", "contents": "[Clinical and hormonal evaluation of recurrence of goiter after thyroidectomy]. The incidence and features of goitre recurrences were investigated in a sample population of patients operated at the University of Turin Endocrine Surgery Centre. The following parameters were examined: sex, age, familial history of goitre, number of pregnancies, T3 and T4 levels, and TSH levels. Attention is drawn to the finding of significantly higher TSH values in the patients operated for recurrent goitre than in a series of persons free of recurrences after they had been operated on for goitre. Other workers have made the same observation, which is therefore regarded as a pointer to the correct interpretation of the recurrence of goitre.", "PMID": 431874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_905", "title": "[Prognosis of acute hepatitis B].", "content": "The clinical course, persistance of HBs antigen, and the liver biopsy morphological picture were evaluated in 40 patients with acute viral hepatitis, type B. In 34 cases, the disease ran a satisfactory course and clinical cure was corroborated histologically. In 4 cases, onset was particularly severe and the disease ran a long course. Here the immunological test for HBs antigen was still positive 8 weeks after the disease began, while a biopsy at 4 months showed a morphological picture similar to that of acute hepatitis. Lastly, two cases with a protracted clinical course displayed persistent HBs antigen positivity one year after the acute episode, with a histological finding of persistent hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver respectively.", "contents": "[Prognosis of acute hepatitis B]. The clinical course, persistance of HBs antigen, and the liver biopsy morphological picture were evaluated in 40 patients with acute viral hepatitis, type B. In 34 cases, the disease ran a satisfactory course and clinical cure was corroborated histologically. In 4 cases, onset was particularly severe and the disease ran a long course. Here the immunological test for HBs antigen was still positive 8 weeks after the disease began, while a biopsy at 4 months showed a morphological picture similar to that of acute hepatitis. Lastly, two cases with a protracted clinical course displayed persistent HBs antigen positivity one year after the acute episode, with a histological finding of persistent hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver respectively.", "PMID": 431875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_906", "title": "[The clofibrate-dipyridamole combination in the treatment of athero-arteriosclerotic vasculopathy].", "content": "A group of patients with athero-arteriosclerotic vascular disease (coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis of the extremities) have been subjected to platelet antiaggregating-antidyslipidaemic treatment with a chlofibrate-dipyridamol association; a control series was treated with chlofibrate alone. Frequency of angina pectoris, pain intensity and trinitrine consumption ware evaluated in patients with coronary heart disease, claudicometry, oscillometry and thermometry in patients with atherosclerosis of the extremities. The following laboratory parameters were also analysed: cholesterolaemia, triglyceridaemia, prothrombin activity, fibrinogenaemia, uricaemia and tolerance of oral glucose loading. Analysis of the results has shown that the association improved the parameters considered in statistically significant fashion; chlofibrate alone led to significant modifications of coronaropathic group parameters (with the exception of pain intensity) whereas it did not lead to significant changes in parameters evaluated for atherosclerosis of the extremities. All laboratory parameters were modified favourably by the association to a statistically greater extent than by chlofibrate alone. Both the association and chlofibrate were well tolerated.", "contents": "[The clofibrate-dipyridamole combination in the treatment of athero-arteriosclerotic vasculopathy]. A group of patients with athero-arteriosclerotic vascular disease (coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis of the extremities) have been subjected to platelet antiaggregating-antidyslipidaemic treatment with a chlofibrate-dipyridamol association; a control series was treated with chlofibrate alone. Frequency of angina pectoris, pain intensity and trinitrine consumption ware evaluated in patients with coronary heart disease, claudicometry, oscillometry and thermometry in patients with atherosclerosis of the extremities. The following laboratory parameters were also analysed: cholesterolaemia, triglyceridaemia, prothrombin activity, fibrinogenaemia, uricaemia and tolerance of oral glucose loading. Analysis of the results has shown that the association improved the parameters considered in statistically significant fashion; chlofibrate alone led to significant modifications of coronaropathic group parameters (with the exception of pain intensity) whereas it did not lead to significant changes in parameters evaluated for atherosclerosis of the extremities. All laboratory parameters were modified favourably by the association to a statistically greater extent than by chlofibrate alone. Both the association and chlofibrate were well tolerated.", "PMID": 431877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_907", "title": "[Vascular myelopathies: anterior spinal artery syndrome. Considerations on 4 cases].", "content": "Four cases of acute onset myelopathy in which clinical and instrumental findings led to the diagnosis of anterior spinal artery syndrome are reported. The physiopathology, clinical medicine and treatment of vascular myelopathies are discussed on the basis of the series presented and reported data. It is also pointed out that vascular aetiology underlies a certain number of acute myelopathies, otherwise classified indiscriminately as myelitis.", "contents": "[Vascular myelopathies: anterior spinal artery syndrome. Considerations on 4 cases]. Four cases of acute onset myelopathy in which clinical and instrumental findings led to the diagnosis of anterior spinal artery syndrome are reported. The physiopathology, clinical medicine and treatment of vascular myelopathies are discussed on the basis of the series presented and reported data. It is also pointed out that vascular aetiology underlies a certain number of acute myelopathies, otherwise classified indiscriminately as myelitis.", "PMID": 431878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_908", "title": "Effects on reflex bladder activity of chemical stimulation of small diameter afferents from skeletal muscle in the cat.", "content": "In anesthetized cats selective activation of fine muscle afferents of the hindlimb by KCl or bradykinin (Brad.) induced reflex changes in the urinary bladder. The nature of the reflex responses depended on the functional state of the bladder: they were excitatory when the bladder was quiescent and inhibitory during large, slow, rhythmic micturition contractions. Selective activation of large muscle primary afferents by succinylcholine was ineffective. All reflexes disappeared after cutting the sciatic or the pelvic nerves. Transection of the hypogastric nerves to the bladder had no effect.", "contents": "Effects on reflex bladder activity of chemical stimulation of small diameter afferents from skeletal muscle in the cat. In anesthetized cats selective activation of fine muscle afferents of the hindlimb by KCl or bradykinin (Brad.) induced reflex changes in the urinary bladder. The nature of the reflex responses depended on the functional state of the bladder: they were excitatory when the bladder was quiescent and inhibitory during large, slow, rhythmic micturition contractions. Selective activation of large muscle primary afferents by succinylcholine was ineffective. All reflexes disappeared after cutting the sciatic or the pelvic nerves. Transection of the hypogastric nerves to the bladder had no effect.", "PMID": 431880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_909", "title": "Coding process in human stretch reflex analysed by phase-locked spikes.", "content": "The Achilles tendon of man was tapped by triangular pulsatory waves with stimulus intervals from 10 to 100 Hz, while single motor unit spikes were recorded from the soleus muscle. The discharge probability of the motor unit spikes in relation to the triangular taps was analysed by means of cross-correlograms. A summation of the results of cross-correlograms of motor unit spikes with 10--100 Hz taps revealed one prominnet kernel, the primary correlation kernel. From the summated correlograms, it became clear that the mean width of the primary correlation kernel, the correlation time, was 8.3 +/- 2.5 msec. The correlation time is interpreted as representing the time-to-peak of the excitatory postsynaptic potential of an alpha-motoneuron.", "contents": "Coding process in human stretch reflex analysed by phase-locked spikes. The Achilles tendon of man was tapped by triangular pulsatory waves with stimulus intervals from 10 to 100 Hz, while single motor unit spikes were recorded from the soleus muscle. The discharge probability of the motor unit spikes in relation to the triangular taps was analysed by means of cross-correlograms. A summation of the results of cross-correlograms of motor unit spikes with 10--100 Hz taps revealed one prominnet kernel, the primary correlation kernel. From the summated correlograms, it became clear that the mean width of the primary correlation kernel, the correlation time, was 8.3 +/- 2.5 msec. The correlation time is interpreted as representing the time-to-peak of the excitatory postsynaptic potential of an alpha-motoneuron.", "PMID": 431881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_910", "title": "Ascending projection from the respiratory centre to mesencephalon and diencephalon.", "content": "The brainstem reticular formation, subthalamus and thalamus were explored in a search for units modulated by the respiratory centre. Experiments were performed on cats under local anesthesia, in which respiratory center oscillation was independent of movement of the lungs and thorax. A large proportion of units firing tonically showed an increasing frequency, phase related to phrenic nerve activity. Respiration related units (RRUs) rostral to the pneumotaxic centre were concentrated in definite areas of the brainstem reticular formation, subthalamus and thalamus. Respiratory modulation disappeared rostral to a section performed at the ponto-mesencephalic junction.", "contents": "Ascending projection from the respiratory centre to mesencephalon and diencephalon. The brainstem reticular formation, subthalamus and thalamus were explored in a search for units modulated by the respiratory centre. Experiments were performed on cats under local anesthesia, in which respiratory center oscillation was independent of movement of the lungs and thorax. A large proportion of units firing tonically showed an increasing frequency, phase related to phrenic nerve activity. Respiration related units (RRUs) rostral to the pneumotaxic centre were concentrated in definite areas of the brainstem reticular formation, subthalamus and thalamus. Respiratory modulation disappeared rostral to a section performed at the ponto-mesencephalic junction.", "PMID": 431882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_911", "title": "Direct projection of catecholamine (presumably dopamine)-containing neurons from hypothalamus to spinal cord.", "content": "A procedure for combining catecholamine (CA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) histochemistry was used to demonstrate that some of the catecholamine-containing cells in the rabbit dorsal hypothalamus project directly to the thoracic spinal cord. These cells, which are probably dopaminergic, may be involved in the integration of pituitary hormonal secretion and peripheral autonomic nervous regulation.", "contents": "Direct projection of catecholamine (presumably dopamine)-containing neurons from hypothalamus to spinal cord. A procedure for combining catecholamine (CA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) histochemistry was used to demonstrate that some of the catecholamine-containing cells in the rabbit dorsal hypothalamus project directly to the thoracic spinal cord. These cells, which are probably dopaminergic, may be involved in the integration of pituitary hormonal secretion and peripheral autonomic nervous regulation.", "PMID": 431883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_912", "title": "Cerebellar afferents from the nucleus of the solitary tract.", "content": "The cerebellar afferents from the nucleus of the solitary tract were studied in cat by means of retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase. Labelled cells occurred bilaterally in the nucleus of the solitary tract following injections in various folia of the cerebellar vermis and in the flocculus (the positive cases are shown in Fig. 1A). Injections in the anterior lobe vermis labelled cells in the caudal part of the nucleus, injections in the posterior vermis labelled cells in the rostral part (Fig. 2). The findings are discussed in relation to other efferent and afferent connections of the nucleus of the solitary tract.", "contents": "Cerebellar afferents from the nucleus of the solitary tract. The cerebellar afferents from the nucleus of the solitary tract were studied in cat by means of retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase. Labelled cells occurred bilaterally in the nucleus of the solitary tract following injections in various folia of the cerebellar vermis and in the flocculus (the positive cases are shown in Fig. 1A). Injections in the anterior lobe vermis labelled cells in the caudal part of the nucleus, injections in the posterior vermis labelled cells in the rostral part (Fig. 2). The findings are discussed in relation to other efferent and afferent connections of the nucleus of the solitary tract.", "PMID": 431884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_913", "title": "Statistical analysis of the discharge patterns of medullary temperature-responsive neurones in rabbits.", "content": "To characterize the medullary temperature-responsive neurones in rabbits, statistical analysis of interspike intervals was performed on 24 neurones recorded at various temperatures of the medulla. It was found that the medullary neurone fired at a relatively regular interval and 11 of 24 neurones displayed an invariable precision in thermoreception over a broad range of medullary temperatures; also, that the temporal distribution of interspike intervals of medullary neurones was markedly different from that of hypothalamic neurones.", "contents": "Statistical analysis of the discharge patterns of medullary temperature-responsive neurones in rabbits. To characterize the medullary temperature-responsive neurones in rabbits, statistical analysis of interspike intervals was performed on 24 neurones recorded at various temperatures of the medulla. It was found that the medullary neurone fired at a relatively regular interval and 11 of 24 neurones displayed an invariable precision in thermoreception over a broad range of medullary temperatures; also, that the temporal distribution of interspike intervals of medullary neurones was markedly different from that of hypothalamic neurones.", "PMID": 431885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_914", "title": "Choline acetyltransferase induction in cultured neurons: dissociated spinal cord cells are dependent on muscle cells, organotypic explants are not.", "content": "The dependence of the induction of choline acetyltransferase (CAT) on the type of tissue culture, monolayer or piece explants, of spinal cord (SC) and muscle (M) was studied. CAT activities of dissociated SC cells were low but were increased by M monolayers. In piece explants of SC, high CAT activities were achieved independently of muscle cells (chick, mouse). It is therefore likely that in tntact SC tissue factors other than the trophic influence of muscle are able to induce cholinergic maturation. M piece explants on SC monolayers did not induce CAT in, and their outgrowth was inhibited by, SC monolayers.", "contents": "Choline acetyltransferase induction in cultured neurons: dissociated spinal cord cells are dependent on muscle cells, organotypic explants are not. The dependence of the induction of choline acetyltransferase (CAT) on the type of tissue culture, monolayer or piece explants, of spinal cord (SC) and muscle (M) was studied. CAT activities of dissociated SC cells were low but were increased by M monolayers. In piece explants of SC, high CAT activities were achieved independently of muscle cells (chick, mouse). It is therefore likely that in tntact SC tissue factors other than the trophic influence of muscle are able to induce cholinergic maturation. M piece explants on SC monolayers did not induce CAT in, and their outgrowth was inhibited by, SC monolayers.", "PMID": 431887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_915", "title": "Metabolic and secretory processes in nerve-endings isolated from post-mortem brain.", "content": "Isolated nerve ending particles (synaptosomes) prepared from rat and human cerebral cortex, after varying conditions of post-mortem storage were shown to possess good structural and morphological integrity and metabolic activity. Respiration, potassium retention, lactate dehydrogenase content, and stimulus-induced release of transmitter candidate amino acids, as well as the neuropeptide somatostatin, were measured. These preparations from post-mortem material showed properties which were closely comparable with similar preparations from fresh material. The relevance of these findings to studies on human post-mortem material is discussed.", "contents": "Metabolic and secretory processes in nerve-endings isolated from post-mortem brain. Isolated nerve ending particles (synaptosomes) prepared from rat and human cerebral cortex, after varying conditions of post-mortem storage were shown to possess good structural and morphological integrity and metabolic activity. Respiration, potassium retention, lactate dehydrogenase content, and stimulus-induced release of transmitter candidate amino acids, as well as the neuropeptide somatostatin, were measured. These preparations from post-mortem material showed properties which were closely comparable with similar preparations from fresh material. The relevance of these findings to studies on human post-mortem material is discussed.", "PMID": 431889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_916", "title": "Antidepressant drugs potentiate suppression by adenosine of neuronal firing in rat cerebral cortex.", "content": "Adenosine and AMP (5'-adenosine monophosphate) applied by microiontophoresis produced depression of neuronal firing rates in cerebral cortex. A number of antidepressant drugs including examples which are known not to affect noradrenaline uptake systems, potentiated the depressant purine effects. Noradrenaline responses were unaffected or reduced. Purines may therefore be important in the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs.", "contents": "Antidepressant drugs potentiate suppression by adenosine of neuronal firing in rat cerebral cortex. Adenosine and AMP (5'-adenosine monophosphate) applied by microiontophoresis produced depression of neuronal firing rates in cerebral cortex. A number of antidepressant drugs including examples which are known not to affect noradrenaline uptake systems, potentiated the depressant purine effects. Noradrenaline responses were unaffected or reduced. Purines may therefore be important in the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs.", "PMID": 431890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_917", "title": "Effects of eye removal on receptors of alpha-bungarotoxin in the optic lobes of chick brain.", "content": "The existence of receptors with high affinity for alpha-bungarotoxin and the pharmacologic properties of a nicotinic ACh receptor has been shown in the optic tectum of chick brain. In the present study eyes were removed from chicks at embryonic day 3 (E3), or at post-hatching day 3 (P3). In both cases, the total number of receptors for I125-alphaBT which developed in the deafferented optic lobe was about 50% of the number in normal lobes.", "contents": "Effects of eye removal on receptors of alpha-bungarotoxin in the optic lobes of chick brain. The existence of receptors with high affinity for alpha-bungarotoxin and the pharmacologic properties of a nicotinic ACh receptor has been shown in the optic tectum of chick brain. In the present study eyes were removed from chicks at embryonic day 3 (E3), or at post-hatching day 3 (P3). In both cases, the total number of receptors for I125-alphaBT which developed in the deafferented optic lobe was about 50% of the number in normal lobes.", "PMID": 431891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_918", "title": "[Adjustment to retirement].", "content": "Rather frequently a person's commitment to his work is taken as one of the factors that thwart his adaptation to retirement. However, research has pointed out that people of different socio-economic classes do not in the same degree commit themselves to their work. Moreover a strong commitment to work does not necessarily lead to a negative attitude towards retirement, nor does a loose tie to one's work always lead to a positive attitude towards retirement. Factors that are more important to facilitate adaptation to retirement, are: to have sufficient means of subsistence, satisfying relationships, a good health, and the possibility to lead an active life. These requirements will be more frequently met with people of the higher and middle occupational level than with those of the lower level. Therefore, the former may be expected to show a better adaptation to retirement.", "contents": "[Adjustment to retirement]. Rather frequently a person's commitment to his work is taken as one of the factors that thwart his adaptation to retirement. However, research has pointed out that people of different socio-economic classes do not in the same degree commit themselves to their work. Moreover a strong commitment to work does not necessarily lead to a negative attitude towards retirement, nor does a loose tie to one's work always lead to a positive attitude towards retirement. Factors that are more important to facilitate adaptation to retirement, are: to have sufficient means of subsistence, satisfying relationships, a good health, and the possibility to lead an active life. These requirements will be more frequently met with people of the higher and middle occupational level than with those of the lower level. Therefore, the former may be expected to show a better adaptation to retirement.", "PMID": 431892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_919", "title": "[Effect of sex and sex role in later life. Report of a seminar by Prof. Margaret Hellie Huyck, April 1978].", "content": "During a seminar at the University of Nijmegen in Holland, Prof. Margaret Hellie Huyck examined the influence of sex and gender on development in the second half of life. She began by presenting a framework for analyzing problems during the phase of the life cycle. She then proceeded to examine the consequences of one's sex and sex role for love, friendship and intimacy, as well as for sexuality later in life. She also presented research evidence on the quality of marriage during the second half of the life cycle. Her discussion on personality changes in men and women at mid-life was more extensive and included consequences of these changes for mental health. Since research on these areas is scarce, many questions for research became evident in the course of the seminar. Prof. Huyck ended the seminar by comparing different visions on the development of men and women over the life cycle, including the model which she sees as ideal.", "contents": "[Effect of sex and sex role in later life. Report of a seminar by Prof. Margaret Hellie Huyck, April 1978]. During a seminar at the University of Nijmegen in Holland, Prof. Margaret Hellie Huyck examined the influence of sex and gender on development in the second half of life. She began by presenting a framework for analyzing problems during the phase of the life cycle. She then proceeded to examine the consequences of one's sex and sex role for love, friendship and intimacy, as well as for sexuality later in life. She also presented research evidence on the quality of marriage during the second half of the life cycle. Her discussion on personality changes in men and women at mid-life was more extensive and included consequences of these changes for mental health. Since research on these areas is scarce, many questions for research became evident in the course of the seminar. Prof. Huyck ended the seminar by comparing different visions on the development of men and women over the life cycle, including the model which she sees as ideal.", "PMID": 431893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_920", "title": "[Survival of patients admitted to a psychogeriatric nursing home].", "content": "The survival of 522 patients, admitted to a psychogeriatric nursing home between 1966 and 1976, was compared with that of the Dutch population, after matching for age and sex. Survival rates were lower in the investigated population; this was particularly influenced by the relatively high mortality of the psychogeriatric patients, who comprised 74% of the investigated population. In women survival rates were better than in men. The survival of married patients was shorter than the same in single patients, while it in the very old was relatively shorter than in the younger group of aged persons.", "contents": "[Survival of patients admitted to a psychogeriatric nursing home]. The survival of 522 patients, admitted to a psychogeriatric nursing home between 1966 and 1976, was compared with that of the Dutch population, after matching for age and sex. Survival rates were lower in the investigated population; this was particularly influenced by the relatively high mortality of the psychogeriatric patients, who comprised 74% of the investigated population. In women survival rates were better than in men. The survival of married patients was shorter than the same in single patients, while it in the very old was relatively shorter than in the younger group of aged persons.", "PMID": 431894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_921", "title": "An exercise test to evaluate fitness for wheelchair activity.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to develop a wheelchair ergometer (WERG) test to evaluate fitness for manual wheelchair activity. Thirty able-bodied females participated in a progressive intensity, discontinuous test where exercise bouts were 4 min in duration interspersed with 5-min rest periods. Physiological responses of oxygen uptake (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (R), net mechanical efficiency (ME), pulmonary ventilation (VO) and heart rate (HR) were determined during the final minute of exercise at power output (PO) levels of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 kpm/min. These responses were generally found to be linearly related to PO, however, net ME initially increased with PO and plateaued at approximately 11 per cent at 90 kpm/min. Criteria for fitness evaluation were based upon: (1) magnitude of physiological responses at each PO level; and (2) the maximal PO level completed.", "contents": "An exercise test to evaluate fitness for wheelchair activity. The purpose of this study was to develop a wheelchair ergometer (WERG) test to evaluate fitness for manual wheelchair activity. Thirty able-bodied females participated in a progressive intensity, discontinuous test where exercise bouts were 4 min in duration interspersed with 5-min rest periods. Physiological responses of oxygen uptake (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (R), net mechanical efficiency (ME), pulmonary ventilation (VO) and heart rate (HR) were determined during the final minute of exercise at power output (PO) levels of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 kpm/min. These responses were generally found to be linearly related to PO, however, net ME initially increased with PO and plateaued at approximately 11 per cent at 90 kpm/min. Criteria for fitness evaluation were based upon: (1) magnitude of physiological responses at each PO level; and (2) the maximal PO level completed.", "PMID": 431964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_922", "title": "Pentolinium for control of reflex hypertension in spinal cord injured patients.", "content": "Ganglioplegia was produced by intravenous infusion of pentolinium tartrate 5 mg to control reflex hypertension in 29 patients with chronic spinal cord injuries undergoing 32 elective surgical procedures. The patient group with lesions above the first thoracic segment (T1) demonstrated significant but moderate intraoperative elevation of both systolic and diastolic pressure whether pentolinium was given prior to or during surgical stimulation. Patients with lesions below T1 had no significant pressure elevations with either mode of therapy. Pentolinium ganglioplegia can safely maintain blood pressure within reasonable limits in these patients; some increase in dosage may be required in patients with lesions above T1.", "contents": "Pentolinium for control of reflex hypertension in spinal cord injured patients. Ganglioplegia was produced by intravenous infusion of pentolinium tartrate 5 mg to control reflex hypertension in 29 patients with chronic spinal cord injuries undergoing 32 elective surgical procedures. The patient group with lesions above the first thoracic segment (T1) demonstrated significant but moderate intraoperative elevation of both systolic and diastolic pressure whether pentolinium was given prior to or during surgical stimulation. Patients with lesions below T1 had no significant pressure elevations with either mode of therapy. Pentolinium ganglioplegia can safely maintain blood pressure within reasonable limits in these patients; some increase in dosage may be required in patients with lesions above T1.", "PMID": 431965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_923", "title": "Urolithiasis in children with spinal cord injury.", "content": "In the literature there is a paucity of references on urolithiasis in children with spinal cord injury. In this paper 28 cases of urolithiasis in 97 children with spinal cord injury are analysed. An attempt is made to evaluate the role of hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria and urinary tract infection in the genesis of these calculi.", "contents": "Urolithiasis in children with spinal cord injury. In the literature there is a paucity of references on urolithiasis in children with spinal cord injury. In this paper 28 cases of urolithiasis in 97 children with spinal cord injury are analysed. An attempt is made to evaluate the role of hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria and urinary tract infection in the genesis of these calculi.", "PMID": 431966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_924", "title": "Are spinal cord injury patients more prone to contrast reactions?", "content": "A previous investigation has indicated that spinal cord injury patients are more prone to develop reactions to intravenous contrast media. An investigation into the incidence of contrast reaction in 100 spinal cord injury patients undergoing intravenous pylography together with the incidence in a control group of 100 non-paraplegic patients, has been made. This has shown that spinal cord injury patients do not have a higher incidence of reaction. The aetiology of contrast reaction is briefly discussed with particular reference to the paraplegic patient.", "contents": "Are spinal cord injury patients more prone to contrast reactions? A previous investigation has indicated that spinal cord injury patients are more prone to develop reactions to intravenous contrast media. An investigation into the incidence of contrast reaction in 100 spinal cord injury patients undergoing intravenous pylography together with the incidence in a control group of 100 non-paraplegic patients, has been made. This has shown that spinal cord injury patients do not have a higher incidence of reaction. The aetiology of contrast reaction is briefly discussed with particular reference to the paraplegic patient.", "PMID": 431967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_925", "title": "Ulnar compression neuropathy: an uncommon complication in surgical repair of pressure ulcers.", "content": "Four patients with paraplegia at levels T3 or below were required to remain in the prone position for periods of 3 to 5 weeks following plastic surgical repair of their pressure ulcers. Serial nerve conduction studies permitted early identification of compromise of ulnar nerve function prior to onset of symptoms. These objective findings are helpful in encouraging patients to protect the nerve, thus preventing palsy.", "contents": "Ulnar compression neuropathy: an uncommon complication in surgical repair of pressure ulcers. Four patients with paraplegia at levels T3 or below were required to remain in the prone position for periods of 3 to 5 weeks following plastic surgical repair of their pressure ulcers. Serial nerve conduction studies permitted early identification of compromise of ulnar nerve function prior to onset of symptoms. These objective findings are helpful in encouraging patients to protect the nerve, thus preventing palsy.", "PMID": 431968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_926", "title": "Pes cavus and claw toes deformity in patients with spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Patients with spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis were surveyed for the presence of extreme foot deformities and spasticity. Pes cavus and claw toes were found in eight of 80 spastic spinal cord injury and two of 20 multiple sclerosis patients. Pes cavus and claw toes were not found in 29 flaccid spinal cord injury patients. Pes cavus and claw toes were associated with flexor reflexes which could be elicited by pin prick proximal to the knee, suggesting extreme spasticity--and by low excitatory thresholds for the anterior tibialis as indicated electromyographically. Complications of severe spasticity associated with spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis include pes cavus and claw toes, mediated in part by spasms of the anterior tibialis.", "contents": "Pes cavus and claw toes deformity in patients with spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis. Patients with spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis were surveyed for the presence of extreme foot deformities and spasticity. Pes cavus and claw toes were found in eight of 80 spastic spinal cord injury and two of 20 multiple sclerosis patients. Pes cavus and claw toes were not found in 29 flaccid spinal cord injury patients. Pes cavus and claw toes were associated with flexor reflexes which could be elicited by pin prick proximal to the knee, suggesting extreme spasticity--and by low excitatory thresholds for the anterior tibialis as indicated electromyographically. Complications of severe spasticity associated with spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis include pes cavus and claw toes, mediated in part by spasms of the anterior tibialis.", "PMID": 431969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_927", "title": "Pressure redistribution in wheelchair cushion for paraplegics: its application and evaluation.", "content": "A survey of the first 200 cases supplied with a \"Paracare\" pressure redistribution wheelchair cushion. The rationale of the design and material used is discussed. The method of application and follow-up studies are given and a total evaluation of the results achieved to date are presented.", "contents": "Pressure redistribution in wheelchair cushion for paraplegics: its application and evaluation. A survey of the first 200 cases supplied with a \"Paracare\" pressure redistribution wheelchair cushion. The rationale of the design and material used is discussed. The method of application and follow-up studies are given and a total evaluation of the results achieved to date are presented.", "PMID": 431971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_928", "title": "Using warning devices to improve pressure-relief training.", "content": "A training and monitoring system has been developed to train spinal cord injured patients to relieve pressure intermittently from ischium while sitting in wheelchairs. The system automates the training of wheelchair push-ups based on certain conditioning principles. The system reminds the patient to do a push-up of a specified duration and at specified intervals. The frequency and the duration of the push-ups are monitored providing information about performance of the patients, especially when the alarms to remind the patients are disconnected. A long-term study is in hand to assess the effectiveness of the system.", "contents": "Using warning devices to improve pressure-relief training. A training and monitoring system has been developed to train spinal cord injured patients to relieve pressure intermittently from ischium while sitting in wheelchairs. The system automates the training of wheelchair push-ups based on certain conditioning principles. The system reminds the patient to do a push-up of a specified duration and at specified intervals. The frequency and the duration of the push-ups are monitored providing information about performance of the patients, especially when the alarms to remind the patients are disconnected. A long-term study is in hand to assess the effectiveness of the system.", "PMID": 431972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_929", "title": "The polystyrene vacuum wheelchair cushion.", "content": "A polystyrene bead vacuum wheelchair cushion has been tried with several patients with abnormal postural reflex activity. Excess spasticity can be reduced by this means and sitting comfort enhanced.", "contents": "The polystyrene vacuum wheelchair cushion. A polystyrene bead vacuum wheelchair cushion has been tried with several patients with abnormal postural reflex activity. Excess spasticity can be reduced by this means and sitting comfort enhanced.", "PMID": 431973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_930", "title": "Cardiac fibroma (fibrous hamartoma) of infancy. Two case reports.", "content": "Two cases of primary fibroma of infancy are described; one was a solitary tumour arising in the left ventricle and interventricular septum and the other consisted of multiple fibromatous tumours in the right ventricle and interventricular septum.", "contents": "Cardiac fibroma (fibrous hamartoma) of infancy. Two case reports. Two cases of primary fibroma of infancy are described; one was a solitary tumour arising in the left ventricle and interventricular septum and the other consisted of multiple fibromatous tumours in the right ventricle and interventricular septum.", "PMID": 431975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_931", "title": "A micromethod prothrombin time for oral anticoagulant control.", "content": "A capillary prothrombin time method was described using the Australasian Reference Thromboplastin (A.R.T.). The method was used for the control of oral anticoagulant therapy in 59 patients on 225 occasions and was found to be reliable and convenient. The capillary prothrombin ratio could be correlated with the conventional plasma prothrombin ratio.", "contents": "A micromethod prothrombin time for oral anticoagulant control. A capillary prothrombin time method was described using the Australasian Reference Thromboplastin (A.R.T.). The method was used for the control of oral anticoagulant therapy in 59 patients on 225 occasions and was found to be reliable and convenient. The capillary prothrombin ratio could be correlated with the conventional plasma prothrombin ratio.", "PMID": 431977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_932", "title": "The pathological assessment of ovarian neoplasms. I: Introduction to the common 'epithelial' tumours and analysis of benign 'epithelial' tumours.", "content": "All neoplasms of the ovary encountered in a 25-year study period at the King George V Memorial Hospital were classified according to the World Health Organisation Histological Classification of Ovarian Tumours. Of these, one thousand fell into the category designated as 'common epithelial tumours'. In this report, the major clinical and pathological correlates and survival data of epithelial tumours as a whole are analysed and criteria are explained for the histological grading of the proliferating and malignant tumours. A detailed histological assessment of the 558 benign epithelial tumours is then presented.", "contents": "The pathological assessment of ovarian neoplasms. I: Introduction to the common 'epithelial' tumours and analysis of benign 'epithelial' tumours. All neoplasms of the ovary encountered in a 25-year study period at the King George V Memorial Hospital were classified according to the World Health Organisation Histological Classification of Ovarian Tumours. Of these, one thousand fell into the category designated as 'common epithelial tumours'. In this report, the major clinical and pathological correlates and survival data of epithelial tumours as a whole are analysed and criteria are explained for the histological grading of the proliferating and malignant tumours. A detailed histological assessment of the 558 benign epithelial tumours is then presented.", "PMID": 431978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_933", "title": "Bilateral trephine bone marrow biopsies in Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.", "content": "This study was undertaken to investigate the usefulness of bilateral rather than unilateral iliac trephine biopsies in demonstrating Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in the bone marrow. One hundred and seventy adequate bilateral biopsies were obtained from 145 patients. Among 76 bilateral trephine biopsies from 65 patients with Hodgkin's disease, tumour was found bilaterally in 3 cases and on only one side in 2 cases. Among 94 bilateral biopsies from 80 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, tumour was found bilaterally in 17 cases and on only one side in 12. Considering all of the cases in the series, the performance of bilateral biopsy increased the yield of positive marrows from an estimate of 27 to 34, an increase of 26%. We conclude that bilateral trephine biopsy is superior to unilateral biopsy for the demonstration of bone marrow involvement by Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and recommend that bilateral trephine biopsies be performed when a knowledge of the state of the bone marrow is important for clinical decision making.", "contents": "Bilateral trephine bone marrow biopsies in Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This study was undertaken to investigate the usefulness of bilateral rather than unilateral iliac trephine biopsies in demonstrating Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in the bone marrow. One hundred and seventy adequate bilateral biopsies were obtained from 145 patients. Among 76 bilateral trephine biopsies from 65 patients with Hodgkin's disease, tumour was found bilaterally in 3 cases and on only one side in 2 cases. Among 94 bilateral biopsies from 80 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, tumour was found bilaterally in 17 cases and on only one side in 12. Considering all of the cases in the series, the performance of bilateral biopsy increased the yield of positive marrows from an estimate of 27 to 34, an increase of 26%. We conclude that bilateral trephine biopsy is superior to unilateral biopsy for the demonstration of bone marrow involvement by Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and recommend that bilateral trephine biopsies be performed when a knowledge of the state of the bone marrow is important for clinical decision making.", "PMID": 431979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_934", "title": "Enterocolitis due to Yersinia enterocolitica in South Australia.", "content": "From August 1976 to July 1977, all faecal specimens (3298) sent to the Enteric Department of the Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science, Adelaide were selectively cultured for Yersinia enterocolitica. Yersinia enterocolitica was isolated from three patients with diarrhoea, one of whom acquired her infection overseas. These organisms were not isolated from faecal or lymph node material collected from a limited number of sheep and pigs found to have enteritis at the time of slaughter. Enteric infection due to Yersinia enterocolitica does not appear to be common in Australia and selective culture methods using cold enrichment techniques do not appear to be justified especially in laboratories handling specimens derived mainly from adults.", "contents": "Enterocolitis due to Yersinia enterocolitica in South Australia. From August 1976 to July 1977, all faecal specimens (3298) sent to the Enteric Department of the Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science, Adelaide were selectively cultured for Yersinia enterocolitica. Yersinia enterocolitica was isolated from three patients with diarrhoea, one of whom acquired her infection overseas. These organisms were not isolated from faecal or lymph node material collected from a limited number of sheep and pigs found to have enteritis at the time of slaughter. Enteric infection due to Yersinia enterocolitica does not appear to be common in Australia and selective culture methods using cold enrichment techniques do not appear to be justified especially in laboratories handling specimens derived mainly from adults.", "PMID": 431980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_935", "title": "Pulmonary responses to atmospheric pollutants. I: an ultrastructural study of fibrosing alveolitis evoked by petrol vapour.", "content": "Rats exposed to an atmosphere contaminated with petrol vapour at a concentration of 100 parts per million for up to 12 weeks exhibit a high incidence of electron microscopic changes in the lung parenchyma characterized by interstitial fibrosis with associated alveolar collapse. Initial changes appearing after 6 weeks include degeneration of endothelium and interstitial fibroblasts followed by hypertrophy of Type 2 pneumocytes. Subsequent degeneration of surfactant organelles of the hypertrophied Type 2 pneumocytes correlates with the appearance of focal alveolar collapse and associated interstitial fibrosis. Because of the rapidity with which lesions are induced in the rat lung, this experimental technique provides an economical and reproducible model for an integrated study of the sequential morphological and biochemical events preceding pulmonary fibrosis which might well lead to a better understanding of the enigmatic human syndrome of fibrosing alveolitis.", "contents": "Pulmonary responses to atmospheric pollutants. I: an ultrastructural study of fibrosing alveolitis evoked by petrol vapour. Rats exposed to an atmosphere contaminated with petrol vapour at a concentration of 100 parts per million for up to 12 weeks exhibit a high incidence of electron microscopic changes in the lung parenchyma characterized by interstitial fibrosis with associated alveolar collapse. Initial changes appearing after 6 weeks include degeneration of endothelium and interstitial fibroblasts followed by hypertrophy of Type 2 pneumocytes. Subsequent degeneration of surfactant organelles of the hypertrophied Type 2 pneumocytes correlates with the appearance of focal alveolar collapse and associated interstitial fibrosis. Because of the rapidity with which lesions are induced in the rat lung, this experimental technique provides an economical and reproducible model for an integrated study of the sequential morphological and biochemical events preceding pulmonary fibrosis which might well lead to a better understanding of the enigmatic human syndrome of fibrosing alveolitis.", "PMID": 431981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_936", "title": "Lantadene A toxicity in sheep. A model for cholestasis.", "content": "Liver injury occurred after sheep were injected intravenously with the triperpene acid lantadene A, the toxic principle of the tropical plant Lantana camara. A single dose of 1--3 mg/kg of the compound caused mild hepatocellular injury characterized by transient rises in serum enzymes, with or without hyperbilirubinaemia. Higher doses resulted in hepatic necrosis. When low doses of the triterpene were given repeatedly over several days a cholestatic syndrome developed which appeared identical with that caused by consumption of the plant. This is a disease model which may be of value in experimental studies of intrahepatic cholestasis. This study provides evidence that lantadene A is hepatotoxic and does not require metabolism in the alimentray tract for toxicity in sheep.", "contents": "Lantadene A toxicity in sheep. A model for cholestasis. Liver injury occurred after sheep were injected intravenously with the triperpene acid lantadene A, the toxic principle of the tropical plant Lantana camara. A single dose of 1--3 mg/kg of the compound caused mild hepatocellular injury characterized by transient rises in serum enzymes, with or without hyperbilirubinaemia. Higher doses resulted in hepatic necrosis. When low doses of the triterpene were given repeatedly over several days a cholestatic syndrome developed which appeared identical with that caused by consumption of the plant. This is a disease model which may be of value in experimental studies of intrahepatic cholestasis. This study provides evidence that lantadene A is hepatotoxic and does not require metabolism in the alimentray tract for toxicity in sheep.", "PMID": 431982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_937", "title": "Malignant intracranial chordoma and sarcoma of the clivus in infancy.", "content": "Neuroradiological and clinical findings suggesting chordoma of the clivus are described in three children. They presented with torticollis as the primary and predominant symptom. Progressive deterioration with development of slurred speech, signs of intracranial pressure and further cranial nerve involvement led to more extensive neuroradiological investigation. The clinical and neuroradiological findings in these three children were similar; the prognosis was unfavourable for two of the children. The histological diagnosis in two cases was malignant chordoma; in the third case it was undifferentiated sarcoma of the clivus.", "contents": "Malignant intracranial chordoma and sarcoma of the clivus in infancy. Neuroradiological and clinical findings suggesting chordoma of the clivus are described in three children. They presented with torticollis as the primary and predominant symptom. Progressive deterioration with development of slurred speech, signs of intracranial pressure and further cranial nerve involvement led to more extensive neuroradiological investigation. The clinical and neuroradiological findings in these three children were similar; the prognosis was unfavourable for two of the children. The histological diagnosis in two cases was malignant chordoma; in the third case it was undifferentiated sarcoma of the clivus.", "PMID": 431984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_938", "title": "Ultrasound diagnosis of ectopic ureterocele.", "content": "Three children with ectopic ureteroceles were examined with ultrasound, intravenous urography and cystography. In all cases the ultrasound studies outlined the ectopic ureterocele within the fluid-filled bladder and in one case added additional information regarding the non-functional portion of the duplication and its ureter.", "contents": "Ultrasound diagnosis of ectopic ureterocele. Three children with ectopic ureteroceles were examined with ultrasound, intravenous urography and cystography. In all cases the ultrasound studies outlined the ectopic ureterocele within the fluid-filled bladder and in one case added additional information regarding the non-functional portion of the duplication and its ureter.", "PMID": 431985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_939", "title": "Cystourethrography: the effect of reservoir height upon intravesical pressure.", "content": "The effect of infusion height upon intravesical pressure during cystography was studied in three dogs and three patients. Results indicate that during bladder filling the intravesical pressure is independent of the reservoir height.", "contents": "Cystourethrography: the effect of reservoir height upon intravesical pressure. The effect of infusion height upon intravesical pressure during cystography was studied in three dogs and three patients. Results indicate that during bladder filling the intravesical pressure is independent of the reservoir height.", "PMID": 431986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_940", "title": "The posteriorly tilted dens. A normal variation mimicking a fractured dens.", "content": "The normal dens occasionally can be posteriorly tilted and in such cases, can mimic a fractured, posteriorly tilted, dens. Differentiation of the two conditions depends on: [1] knowledge that this normal variation of the dens occurs, and [2] demonstrating that no fracture exists. In many cases, this latter determination can be accomplished on plain films, but in other cases, laminography is required.", "contents": "The posteriorly tilted dens. A normal variation mimicking a fractured dens. The normal dens occasionally can be posteriorly tilted and in such cases, can mimic a fractured, posteriorly tilted, dens. Differentiation of the two conditions depends on: [1] knowledge that this normal variation of the dens occurs, and [2] demonstrating that no fracture exists. In many cases, this latter determination can be accomplished on plain films, but in other cases, laminography is required.", "PMID": 431988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_941", "title": "Phalangeal cone shaped epiphysis of the hands (PhCSEH) and chronic renal disease--the conorenal syndromes.", "content": "The phalangeal cone shaped epiphysis of the hands (PhCSEH) observed in the extended Saldino-Mainzer syndrome (SMS), including nephronophthisis, are typed in accordance with standard tables. Of the more than 40 known types, type 28 and/or 28A were found in all eight cases available for analysis, frequently also associated with types 38, 38A, 37 and others. Similar PhCSEH are also observed in asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia (ATD), as well as in some cases of peripheral dysostosis combined with dwarfism. The striking similarity of the PhCSEH formula in our eight cases and of some cases of ATD, all suffering from chronic renal disease, suggests a common pathogenetic pathway of these conditions. The collective name of \"conorenal syndromes\" is suggested.", "contents": "Phalangeal cone shaped epiphysis of the hands (PhCSEH) and chronic renal disease--the conorenal syndromes. The phalangeal cone shaped epiphysis of the hands (PhCSEH) observed in the extended Saldino-Mainzer syndrome (SMS), including nephronophthisis, are typed in accordance with standard tables. Of the more than 40 known types, type 28 and/or 28A were found in all eight cases available for analysis, frequently also associated with types 38, 38A, 37 and others. Similar PhCSEH are also observed in asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia (ATD), as well as in some cases of peripheral dysostosis combined with dwarfism. The striking similarity of the PhCSEH formula in our eight cases and of some cases of ATD, all suffering from chronic renal disease, suggests a common pathogenetic pathway of these conditions. The collective name of \"conorenal syndromes\" is suggested.", "PMID": 431989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_942", "title": "Intracranial calcification in a neonate with the Sturge Weber syndrome and additional problems.", "content": "The neonate in this report had severe encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis with intracranial calcification, cranial hemiatrophy, microcephaly and generalised severe cerebral atrophy. Such findings are not common in the newborn with this syndrome.", "contents": "Intracranial calcification in a neonate with the Sturge Weber syndrome and additional problems. The neonate in this report had severe encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis with intracranial calcification, cranial hemiatrophy, microcephaly and generalised severe cerebral atrophy. Such findings are not common in the newborn with this syndrome.", "PMID": 431990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_943", "title": "Extensive sclerosis of the base of the skull due to primary nasal tuberculosis.", "content": "An 8 year old black male is presented as a primary nasal tuberculous granuloma whose roentgenograms of the skull revealed extensive sclerosis of the periorbital region involving the frontal, sphenoid, and petrous bones. The tuberculous meningitis and the osseous sclerosis at the base of the skull were cured with anti-tuberculous therapy.", "contents": "Extensive sclerosis of the base of the skull due to primary nasal tuberculosis. An 8 year old black male is presented as a primary nasal tuberculous granuloma whose roentgenograms of the skull revealed extensive sclerosis of the periorbital region involving the frontal, sphenoid, and petrous bones. The tuberculous meningitis and the osseous sclerosis at the base of the skull were cured with anti-tuberculous therapy.", "PMID": 431991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_944", "title": "Radiographic studies of upper airway obstruction with cor pulmonale in a patient with pycnodysostosis.", "content": "The purpose of this article is to present radiographic aspects of obstructive anatomical alterations of the upper airway before and during sleep in a 4 1/2-year-old boy affected with pycnodysostosis. The striking length of the uvula and the inspiration-exspiration changes in its position was an important factor in the obstruction of the upper airway. For better and earlier understanding of the actual mechanism of upper airway obstruction, the radiological data should be obtained during the same circumstances that the patient is experiencing his maximum discomfort.", "contents": "Radiographic studies of upper airway obstruction with cor pulmonale in a patient with pycnodysostosis. The purpose of this article is to present radiographic aspects of obstructive anatomical alterations of the upper airway before and during sleep in a 4 1/2-year-old boy affected with pycnodysostosis. The striking length of the uvula and the inspiration-exspiration changes in its position was an important factor in the obstruction of the upper airway. For better and earlier understanding of the actual mechanism of upper airway obstruction, the radiological data should be obtained during the same circumstances that the patient is experiencing his maximum discomfort.", "PMID": 431992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_945", "title": "Non-operative removal of an unusual foreign body from the duodenum after duodeno-jejunostomy.", "content": "The authors report a case of peroral removal of an intraduodenal foreigh body in a 6 week old infant. The coaxial technique employed facilitates catheter manipulation and avoids traumatic lesions arising from manoeuvres during removal.", "contents": "Non-operative removal of an unusual foreign body from the duodenum after duodeno-jejunostomy. The authors report a case of peroral removal of an intraduodenal foreigh body in a 6 week old infant. The coaxial technique employed facilitates catheter manipulation and avoids traumatic lesions arising from manoeuvres during removal.", "PMID": 431993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_946", "title": "Congenital ureteral valve.", "content": "A one year old boy with ureteral obstruction due to congenital ureteral valve is presented. This rare lesion is usually diagnosed pre-operatively as ureteral stricture or primary megaureter.", "contents": "Congenital ureteral valve. A one year old boy with ureteral obstruction due to congenital ureteral valve is presented. This rare lesion is usually diagnosed pre-operatively as ureteral stricture or primary megaureter.", "PMID": 431994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_947", "title": "Pulmonary actinomycosis in children.", "content": "The radiological features of three cases of pulmonary actinomycosis in children are presented. Two of the cases had the classical roentgen features of chronic consolidation with overlying rib periostitis. The third had non specific consolidation but demonstrated extension through the diaphragm. Two of our cases were mentally subnormal children in institutional care. Their pulmonary pathology is almost certainly attributal to poor dental hygiene, a constant problem in this group of children. Hence, although pulmonary actinomycosis is rare in the general populus, we suggest it might be suspected more often in the subnormal group when chronic consolidation is present.", "contents": "Pulmonary actinomycosis in children. The radiological features of three cases of pulmonary actinomycosis in children are presented. Two of the cases had the classical roentgen features of chronic consolidation with overlying rib periostitis. The third had non specific consolidation but demonstrated extension through the diaphragm. Two of our cases were mentally subnormal children in institutional care. Their pulmonary pathology is almost certainly attributal to poor dental hygiene, a constant problem in this group of children. Hence, although pulmonary actinomycosis is rare in the general populus, we suggest it might be suspected more often in the subnormal group when chronic consolidation is present.", "PMID": 431995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_948", "title": "Parathormone and perinatal calcium homeostasis.", "content": "Plasma parathormone (PTH) and calcium concentrations were measured in 309 specimens collected from 190 newborns during the first 7 days of life. The patient material consisted of 51 preterm, 130 term, and 9 postterm infants, including 22 infants of diabetic mothers (IDM), 38 infants with hypocalcemia, and 25 asphyxiated infants. PTH was detectable, although in low concentrations, in cord blood samples despite the presence of elevated calcium concentrations. Postpartum, PTH concentrations in term, appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants remained low during the first 2 days of life; a significant (P less than 0.05) and sustained increase in plasma hormone levels was noted starting on day 3. PTH concentrations in IDM and preterm infants remained low for 3 days and a significant hormone increase did not occur until day 4. Hypocalcemia was common in IDM and asphyxiated infants; these infants accounted for two-thirds of all hypocalcemic infants. The profile of plasma calcium in IDM during the first week of life was different than that of any other group of infants. Plasma calcium concentrations remained depressed over this period of time and exhibited a temporary drop on day 4 accompanied by an increase in plasma PTH levels. Asphyxiated infants exhibited low plasma calcium concentrations, despite PTH levels that were significantly (P less than 0.007) higher than those of age-matched term AGA newborns.", "contents": "Parathormone and perinatal calcium homeostasis. Plasma parathormone (PTH) and calcium concentrations were measured in 309 specimens collected from 190 newborns during the first 7 days of life. The patient material consisted of 51 preterm, 130 term, and 9 postterm infants, including 22 infants of diabetic mothers (IDM), 38 infants with hypocalcemia, and 25 asphyxiated infants. PTH was detectable, although in low concentrations, in cord blood samples despite the presence of elevated calcium concentrations. Postpartum, PTH concentrations in term, appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants remained low during the first 2 days of life; a significant (P less than 0.05) and sustained increase in plasma hormone levels was noted starting on day 3. PTH concentrations in IDM and preterm infants remained low for 3 days and a significant hormone increase did not occur until day 4. Hypocalcemia was common in IDM and asphyxiated infants; these infants accounted for two-thirds of all hypocalcemic infants. The profile of plasma calcium in IDM during the first week of life was different than that of any other group of infants. Plasma calcium concentrations remained depressed over this period of time and exhibited a temporary drop on day 4 accompanied by an increase in plasma PTH levels. Asphyxiated infants exhibited low plasma calcium concentrations, despite PTH levels that were significantly (P less than 0.007) higher than those of age-matched term AGA newborns.", "PMID": 431996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_949", "title": "Development of an improved tracheal explant bioassay for the detection of the ciliary dyskinesia factor in cystic fibrosis serum.", "content": "A tracheal ring explant system, when used with 25% cystic fibrosis (CF) serum, displayed obvious ciliostasis. Hamster, rabbit, and guinea pig explants all had measurable decreases in ciliary activity after 24 hr of incubation in the serum. The differential response to CF serum (relative to normal serum) was greatly increased by using explants which were maintained 24-72 hr in minimal essential medium (MEM) with 10% horse serum and which were selected on the basis of optimal ciliary activity and vigor. With such a bioassay system of guinea pig tracheal explants, incubation with 25% normal serum would produce essentially no change in relative ciliary activity (score of 242 of a possible 300), whereas CF serum resulted in an 86% decrease (score of 33). Scanning electron microscopic observation indicated that the explants displaying the CF-ciliostatic effect had significant accumulations of mucous over the ciliated epithelial surface. A biochemical viability assay (dehydrogenase activity) showed no cytonecrosis when CF serum-treated tissues were compared to standard explants (10% horse serum in MEM) or control explants (25% normal human serum).", "contents": "Development of an improved tracheal explant bioassay for the detection of the ciliary dyskinesia factor in cystic fibrosis serum. A tracheal ring explant system, when used with 25% cystic fibrosis (CF) serum, displayed obvious ciliostasis. Hamster, rabbit, and guinea pig explants all had measurable decreases in ciliary activity after 24 hr of incubation in the serum. The differential response to CF serum (relative to normal serum) was greatly increased by using explants which were maintained 24-72 hr in minimal essential medium (MEM) with 10% horse serum and which were selected on the basis of optimal ciliary activity and vigor. With such a bioassay system of guinea pig tracheal explants, incubation with 25% normal serum would produce essentially no change in relative ciliary activity (score of 242 of a possible 300), whereas CF serum resulted in an 86% decrease (score of 33). Scanning electron microscopic observation indicated that the explants displaying the CF-ciliostatic effect had significant accumulations of mucous over the ciliated epithelial surface. A biochemical viability assay (dehydrogenase activity) showed no cytonecrosis when CF serum-treated tissues were compared to standard explants (10% horse serum in MEM) or control explants (25% normal human serum).", "PMID": 431999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_950", "title": "Basal and pentagastrin-stimulated acid secretion in newborn human infants.", "content": "Basal and pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion was measured in 26 healthy newborn infants on the 1st and 2nd days of life. Basal acid outputs (BAO) on day 1 (0.378 mEq/hr) and day 2 (0.388 mEq/hr) were similar and not significantly different from the maximal acid outputs (MAO) on day 1 (0.413 mEq/hr) and day 2 (0.452 mEq/hr). When calculated on a mEq/kg/hr basis, BAO on day 1 was 0.110 with an MAO of 0.122. The BAO on day 2 was 0.114 with an MAO of 0.133. Fasting serum gastrin levels obtained before the acid studies on each day were elevated (mean, day 1 = 100 pg/ml; mean, day 2 = 108 pg/ml). These findings suggest that either gastric acid secretion in the newborn is maximal under basal condition or that newborn parietal cells are unresponsive to pentagastrin on day 1 and 2 of life.", "contents": "Basal and pentagastrin-stimulated acid secretion in newborn human infants. Basal and pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion was measured in 26 healthy newborn infants on the 1st and 2nd days of life. Basal acid outputs (BAO) on day 1 (0.378 mEq/hr) and day 2 (0.388 mEq/hr) were similar and not significantly different from the maximal acid outputs (MAO) on day 1 (0.413 mEq/hr) and day 2 (0.452 mEq/hr). When calculated on a mEq/kg/hr basis, BAO on day 1 was 0.110 with an MAO of 0.122. The BAO on day 2 was 0.114 with an MAO of 0.133. Fasting serum gastrin levels obtained before the acid studies on each day were elevated (mean, day 1 = 100 pg/ml; mean, day 2 = 108 pg/ml). These findings suggest that either gastric acid secretion in the newborn is maximal under basal condition or that newborn parietal cells are unresponsive to pentagastrin on day 1 and 2 of life.", "PMID": 432000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_951", "title": "Salicylate intoxication and influenza in ferrets.", "content": "A model of salicylate intoxication was developed in ferrets to permit the evaluation of the interaction with viruses isolated from patients with Reye's syndrome. Salicylate intoxication produced a mild elevation of the serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and fatty changes in the liver, but these changes differed from those seen in Reye's syndrome on light and electron microscopy. Salicylates were associated with decreased activity of hepatic phosphorylase and a slight depression of activity or ornithine transcarbamylase, a mitochondrial urea cycle enzyme. Infection with influenza viruses produced mild fatty changes in the liver, but did not significantly potentiate the effects of salicylate intoxication on the over-all mortality, the degree of fatty changes, or the hepatic enzymes. Influenza infection alone was not associated with decreased hepatic phosphorylase activity, but was associated with decreased activity of ornithine transcarbamylase. Influenza A was isolated from the livers of two of four animals cultured in embryonated eggs.", "contents": "Salicylate intoxication and influenza in ferrets. A model of salicylate intoxication was developed in ferrets to permit the evaluation of the interaction with viruses isolated from patients with Reye's syndrome. Salicylate intoxication produced a mild elevation of the serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and fatty changes in the liver, but these changes differed from those seen in Reye's syndrome on light and electron microscopy. Salicylates were associated with decreased activity of hepatic phosphorylase and a slight depression of activity or ornithine transcarbamylase, a mitochondrial urea cycle enzyme. Infection with influenza viruses produced mild fatty changes in the liver, but did not significantly potentiate the effects of salicylate intoxication on the over-all mortality, the degree of fatty changes, or the hepatic enzymes. Influenza infection alone was not associated with decreased hepatic phosphorylase activity, but was associated with decreased activity of ornithine transcarbamylase. Influenza A was isolated from the livers of two of four animals cultured in embryonated eggs.", "PMID": 432001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_952", "title": "Brain carbohydrate metabolism during experimental Haemophilus influenzae meningitis.", "content": "Five-day-old infant rats which acquire Haemophilus influenzae b bacteremia and meningitis after intranasal inoculation have a transient depression in weight gain (2 days), but then continue to grow at the same rate as strain U--11 inoculated controls. Brain lactate, glucose, and glycogen concentrations increase during the first 5 days of disease in infected animals. The increase in brain glycogen can be accounted for by an influx of glycogen containing polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The increased concentrations of glucose and lactate were found not to be due to a change in brain weight to dry weight ratio or the volume of entrapped blood. The mean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose concentration was higher in animals with meningitis (2.7 mM) in comparison to U-11 inoculated controls (1.8 mM). This increase in brain and CSF glucose concentration appeared secondary to an increased brain uptake of hexoses as manifested by an increased [3H]mannitol uptake. Brain lactate accumulation was not explicable from the data available. There was no evidence of cerebral cortical cellular damage because in vitro oxygen uptake and lactate production were equivalent in control and meningitic animals. The ability of the infant rat brain to maintain cerebral adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content in menigitis and the failure of CSF glucose concentration to decrease might be a reflection of the importance of alternative oxidative substrate (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate) to the cerebral metabolism of the developing rat brain.", "contents": "Brain carbohydrate metabolism during experimental Haemophilus influenzae meningitis. Five-day-old infant rats which acquire Haemophilus influenzae b bacteremia and meningitis after intranasal inoculation have a transient depression in weight gain (2 days), but then continue to grow at the same rate as strain U--11 inoculated controls. Brain lactate, glucose, and glycogen concentrations increase during the first 5 days of disease in infected animals. The increase in brain glycogen can be accounted for by an influx of glycogen containing polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The increased concentrations of glucose and lactate were found not to be due to a change in brain weight to dry weight ratio or the volume of entrapped blood. The mean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose concentration was higher in animals with meningitis (2.7 mM) in comparison to U-11 inoculated controls (1.8 mM). This increase in brain and CSF glucose concentration appeared secondary to an increased brain uptake of hexoses as manifested by an increased [3H]mannitol uptake. Brain lactate accumulation was not explicable from the data available. There was no evidence of cerebral cortical cellular damage because in vitro oxygen uptake and lactate production were equivalent in control and meningitic animals. The ability of the infant rat brain to maintain cerebral adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content in menigitis and the failure of CSF glucose concentration to decrease might be a reflection of the importance of alternative oxidative substrate (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate) to the cerebral metabolism of the developing rat brain.", "PMID": 432002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_953", "title": "Ontogeny of amino acid reabsorption in human kidney. Evidence from the homozygous infant with familial renal iminoglycinuria for multiple proline and glycine systems.", "content": "Seven infants (two French Canadian, four Ashkenazi Jewish, and one Greek) with massive selective hyperiminoglycinuria (proline, hydroxyproline, and glycine) were detected by urine screening in the second week of life. Follow-up investigations and family studies revealed that each subject had a benign condition, familial renal iminoglycinuria, an autosomal recessive condition. The family studies (Table 1 and Fig. 1) indicate the presence of at least two different mutant alleles segregating in this small group of probands. Hmozygotes of two forms and one genetic compound were identified. Quantitative studies revealed normal concentrations of proline and glycine in plasma (Fig. 2), normal maturation of creatinine clearance (as an index of glomerular filtration rate) (Fig. 3), and elevated renal clearance of proline and glycine (Table 2). Fractional excretion (CAA/CCR) of both proline and glycine in the probands was far in excess of that expected for the normal postnatal infant; FFPro and FEGly approached 100% of the filtered load on occasion (Fig. 4). A schedule of maturing tubular reabsorptive activity was apparent in the proband group. Proline reabsorption matured earlier than glycine reabsorption in the homozygotes (and the genetic compound) as it does in the normal infants (Fig. 5). Our findings suggest that three gene products serve net tubular reabsorption of imino acids and glycine in human kidney. One, affected by mutation in our patients, is responsible for a shared transport activity; a second with preference for proline, and not affected by the mutation, has an \"early\" schedule of postnatal maturation; and a third with preference for glycine, also not affected by the mutation, has a \"late\" schedule of maturation.", "contents": "Ontogeny of amino acid reabsorption in human kidney. Evidence from the homozygous infant with familial renal iminoglycinuria for multiple proline and glycine systems. Seven infants (two French Canadian, four Ashkenazi Jewish, and one Greek) with massive selective hyperiminoglycinuria (proline, hydroxyproline, and glycine) were detected by urine screening in the second week of life. Follow-up investigations and family studies revealed that each subject had a benign condition, familial renal iminoglycinuria, an autosomal recessive condition. The family studies (Table 1 and Fig. 1) indicate the presence of at least two different mutant alleles segregating in this small group of probands. Hmozygotes of two forms and one genetic compound were identified. Quantitative studies revealed normal concentrations of proline and glycine in plasma (Fig. 2), normal maturation of creatinine clearance (as an index of glomerular filtration rate) (Fig. 3), and elevated renal clearance of proline and glycine (Table 2). Fractional excretion (CAA/CCR) of both proline and glycine in the probands was far in excess of that expected for the normal postnatal infant; FFPro and FEGly approached 100% of the filtered load on occasion (Fig. 4). A schedule of maturing tubular reabsorptive activity was apparent in the proband group. Proline reabsorption matured earlier than glycine reabsorption in the homozygotes (and the genetic compound) as it does in the normal infants (Fig. 5). Our findings suggest that three gene products serve net tubular reabsorption of imino acids and glycine in human kidney. One, affected by mutation in our patients, is responsible for a shared transport activity; a second with preference for proline, and not affected by the mutation, has an \"early\" schedule of postnatal maturation; and a third with preference for glycine, also not affected by the mutation, has a \"late\" schedule of maturation.", "PMID": 432003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_954", "title": "Placental transfer of analogs of glucose and amino acids in experimental intrauterine growth retardation.", "content": "We have employed the model in which one uterine artery is ligated to study maternofetal transport and tissue uptake of glucose and amino acids in the intrauterine growth-retarded rat. On the 18th day of gestation, the artery supplying one uterine horn was ligated. Two days later the rats received [3H]2-deoxyglucose and [14C]alpha-aminoisobutyric acid iv. One hour later the growth-retarded and control fetuses were delivered by Cesarean section and appropriate blood samples were obtained. The growth-retarded fetuses had an average weight reduction of 27%, significantly increased placental to fetal weight ratio and brain to body ratio, and a significantly reduced liver to body body ratio. Total radioactivity derived from tritiated deoxyglucose in whole fetal tissues, placenta, liver, and brain were significantly decreased in the intrauterine growth-retarded (IUGR) fetuses; this was also true per gram of tissue except for liver. Liver to plasma, brain to plasma, and whole fetal tissue to plasma 3H ratios were significantly increased in the IUGR group. The radioactivity derived from [14C]alpha-aminoisobutyric acid was significantly reduced in whole fetal tissues, placenta, liver, and brain in the IUGR fetuses whether expressed per whole organ or per gram of tissue. Significant differences in liver to plasma, brain to plasma, and whole tissue to plasma 14C ratios were not observed.", "contents": "Placental transfer of analogs of glucose and amino acids in experimental intrauterine growth retardation. We have employed the model in which one uterine artery is ligated to study maternofetal transport and tissue uptake of glucose and amino acids in the intrauterine growth-retarded rat. On the 18th day of gestation, the artery supplying one uterine horn was ligated. Two days later the rats received [3H]2-deoxyglucose and [14C]alpha-aminoisobutyric acid iv. One hour later the growth-retarded and control fetuses were delivered by Cesarean section and appropriate blood samples were obtained. The growth-retarded fetuses had an average weight reduction of 27%, significantly increased placental to fetal weight ratio and brain to body ratio, and a significantly reduced liver to body body ratio. Total radioactivity derived from tritiated deoxyglucose in whole fetal tissues, placenta, liver, and brain were significantly decreased in the intrauterine growth-retarded (IUGR) fetuses; this was also true per gram of tissue except for liver. Liver to plasma, brain to plasma, and whole fetal tissue to plasma 3H ratios were significantly increased in the IUGR group. The radioactivity derived from [14C]alpha-aminoisobutyric acid was significantly reduced in whole fetal tissues, placenta, liver, and brain in the IUGR fetuses whether expressed per whole organ or per gram of tissue. Significant differences in liver to plasma, brain to plasma, and whole tissue to plasma 14C ratios were not observed.", "PMID": 432004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_955", "title": "Glucose metabolism, lactate, and ammonia production by the human placenta in vitro.", "content": "Fifteen human placentas were obtained at term. Placental fragments were incubated in a bicarbonate-buffered Earle's solution. Additions of glutamate (1 mM) or glutamine (1 or 2 mM) were made. All incubations showed a net utilization of glucose. There was a striking variability among placentas in the net glucose utilization rate (1.27 mumoles/g/hr-11.44 mumoles/g/hr, coefficient of variation = 62%). The intraplacental coefficient of variation in glucose utilization was only 14%. All placental incubations showed a net production of both lactate (mean = 7.5 mumoles/g placental wet weight/hr) and ammonia (mean = 3.5 mumoles/g placental wet weight/hr). There was no correlation between lactate of ammonia production and glucose utilization. The addition of sodium glutamate (1 mumole/ml) produced no change in glucose utilization or ammonia production. The addition of glutamine (1 and 2 mumoles/ml) produced a significant increase in ammonia production over that found in the controls, but no change in glucose utilization. Incubation with 2 mumoles glutamine/ml demonstrated an increase in lactate production. All incubations showed a striking increase in ammonia concentration after 45 min of incubation. Individual placentas may differ markedly in their ability to utilize glucose in an in vitro system. Ammonia production may be a normal metabolic endproduct in a tissue lacking an active urea cycle or a byproduct of the purine nucleotide cycle.", "contents": "Glucose metabolism, lactate, and ammonia production by the human placenta in vitro. Fifteen human placentas were obtained at term. Placental fragments were incubated in a bicarbonate-buffered Earle's solution. Additions of glutamate (1 mM) or glutamine (1 or 2 mM) were made. All incubations showed a net utilization of glucose. There was a striking variability among placentas in the net glucose utilization rate (1.27 mumoles/g/hr-11.44 mumoles/g/hr, coefficient of variation = 62%). The intraplacental coefficient of variation in glucose utilization was only 14%. All placental incubations showed a net production of both lactate (mean = 7.5 mumoles/g placental wet weight/hr) and ammonia (mean = 3.5 mumoles/g placental wet weight/hr). There was no correlation between lactate of ammonia production and glucose utilization. The addition of sodium glutamate (1 mumole/ml) produced no change in glucose utilization or ammonia production. The addition of glutamine (1 and 2 mumoles/ml) produced a significant increase in ammonia production over that found in the controls, but no change in glucose utilization. Incubation with 2 mumoles glutamine/ml demonstrated an increase in lactate production. All incubations showed a striking increase in ammonia concentration after 45 min of incubation. Individual placentas may differ markedly in their ability to utilize glucose in an in vitro system. Ammonia production may be a normal metabolic endproduct in a tissue lacking an active urea cycle or a byproduct of the purine nucleotide cycle.", "PMID": 432005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_956", "title": "Glycine transport by human diploid fibroblasts--absence of a defect in cells from patients with nonketotic hyperglycinemia.", "content": "Glycine transport in human diploid fibroblasts was shown to be by a single sodium-dependent system. Glycine transport does not appear to exhibit transstimulation or transinhibition. Transport appears to be similar to the A transport system of other mammalian cell lines, as defined by competition patterns. Normal and nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) fibroblasts could not be distinguished on the basis of accumulation or initial rates. A distribution ratio of 15 to 30 was reached by both types of cells. The normal lines have slightly lower apparent Kms (1.1-1.3 mM) than the NKH lines (1.8 to 2.4 mM). The values for the Vmax of the normal cells (11.4-12.9 nmole/mg/min) and the NKH cells (7.0-16.7 nmole/mg/min) overlapped. There were no measurable differences in either the long-term incorporation into protein of leucine and glycine or the oxidation of glycine in normal and NKH fibroblasts.", "contents": "Glycine transport by human diploid fibroblasts--absence of a defect in cells from patients with nonketotic hyperglycinemia. Glycine transport in human diploid fibroblasts was shown to be by a single sodium-dependent system. Glycine transport does not appear to exhibit transstimulation or transinhibition. Transport appears to be similar to the A transport system of other mammalian cell lines, as defined by competition patterns. Normal and nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) fibroblasts could not be distinguished on the basis of accumulation or initial rates. A distribution ratio of 15 to 30 was reached by both types of cells. The normal lines have slightly lower apparent Kms (1.1-1.3 mM) than the NKH lines (1.8 to 2.4 mM). The values for the Vmax of the normal cells (11.4-12.9 nmole/mg/min) and the NKH cells (7.0-16.7 nmole/mg/min) overlapped. There were no measurable differences in either the long-term incorporation into protein of leucine and glycine or the oxidation of glycine in normal and NKH fibroblasts.", "PMID": 432006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_957", "title": "Laser light-scattering spectroscopy: preliminary results on bioassay of cystic fibrosis factor(s).", "content": "The effect of 7 cystic fibrosis sera and 4 normal sera was investigated in 37 cultures of ciliated epithelium of the rabbit trachea. Serum was introduced in the Rose culture chambers in a concentration of 10% by volume. The frequency of ciliary beat was monitored by laser light-scattering spectroscopy. The results show that the response of cilia to sera can be well characterized by laser light scattering. Our preliminary evidence suggests that an early increase in the frequency of ciliary beat, followed by rapid arrest of ciliary activity, is a sensitive and characteristic response produced by cystic fibrosis serum, and not by normal serum.", "contents": "Laser light-scattering spectroscopy: preliminary results on bioassay of cystic fibrosis factor(s). The effect of 7 cystic fibrosis sera and 4 normal sera was investigated in 37 cultures of ciliated epithelium of the rabbit trachea. Serum was introduced in the Rose culture chambers in a concentration of 10% by volume. The frequency of ciliary beat was monitored by laser light-scattering spectroscopy. The results show that the response of cilia to sera can be well characterized by laser light scattering. Our preliminary evidence suggests that an early increase in the frequency of ciliary beat, followed by rapid arrest of ciliary activity, is a sensitive and characteristic response produced by cystic fibrosis serum, and not by normal serum.", "PMID": 432007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_958", "title": "Chromatic induction effects in the Hermann grid illusion.", "content": "The chromatic Hermann grid illusion was investigated in sixteen subjects, with variation of the lightness contrast between the chromatic inducing squares and the background, and the saturation and hue of the inducing squares. Subjects made magnitude estimates of the sharpness and clarity of perceived dots at the intersections of the grid, and matched the appearances of the dots with Munsell chips. A chromatic induction effect was found to occur in the absence of lightness contrast, but the sharpness of the illusory dots increased with increasing lightness contrast (p less than 0.001). The saturation of the perceived dots increased with increases in the saturation of the inducing squares (p less than 0.05), and was higher for the longer wavelengths than for the shorter wavelengths (p less than 0.005). Neural units with center-surround arrangements responding differentially to light of the same color in the center and the surround, e.g. red off-centers and red on-surrounds, could account for the chromatic induction effect.", "contents": "Chromatic induction effects in the Hermann grid illusion. The chromatic Hermann grid illusion was investigated in sixteen subjects, with variation of the lightness contrast between the chromatic inducing squares and the background, and the saturation and hue of the inducing squares. Subjects made magnitude estimates of the sharpness and clarity of perceived dots at the intersections of the grid, and matched the appearances of the dots with Munsell chips. A chromatic induction effect was found to occur in the absence of lightness contrast, but the sharpness of the illusory dots increased with increasing lightness contrast (p less than 0.001). The saturation of the perceived dots increased with increases in the saturation of the inducing squares (p less than 0.05), and was higher for the longer wavelengths than for the shorter wavelengths (p less than 0.005). Neural units with center-surround arrangements responding differentially to light of the same color in the center and the surround, e.g. red off-centers and red on-surrounds, could account for the chromatic induction effect.", "PMID": 432073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_959", "title": "The utilization of external and movement cues in simple spatial tasks by blind and sighted children.", "content": "The role of visual experience in coding spatial position by movements or by external cues was examined in simple (nonrotational) shift tasks with blind and sighted children. Age and the salience of external cues were also of interest. Results showed that the congenitally totally blind used movement cues significantly more even when external cues were present and prominent. The blind with minimal visual experience coded by external cues, but made errors beyond the age by which blindfolded sighted children performed correctly. It was argued that visual experience affects coding by drawing attention to external cues, and by providing more adequate spatial information than other sources usually available to the blind. In its absence, movement coding and self-reference can become preferred strategies.", "contents": "The utilization of external and movement cues in simple spatial tasks by blind and sighted children. The role of visual experience in coding spatial position by movements or by external cues was examined in simple (nonrotational) shift tasks with blind and sighted children. Age and the salience of external cues were also of interest. Results showed that the congenitally totally blind used movement cues significantly more even when external cues were present and prominent. The blind with minimal visual experience coded by external cues, but made errors beyond the age by which blindfolded sighted children performed correctly. It was argued that visual experience affects coding by drawing attention to external cues, and by providing more adequate spatial information than other sources usually available to the blind. In its absence, movement coding and self-reference can become preferred strategies.", "PMID": 432074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_960", "title": "Eye guidance in reading: fixation locations within words.", "content": "Three broad categories of models of eye movement guidance in reading are described. According to one category, eye movements in reading are not under stimulus or cognitive control; the other two categories indicate that cognitive activities or stimulus characteristics are involved in eye guidance. In this study a number of descriptive analyses of eye movements in reading were carried out. These analyses dealt with fixation locations on letters within words of various lengths, conditional probabilities that a word will be fixed given that a prior word was or was not fixated, and average saccade length as a function of the length of the word to the right of the fixated word. The results of these analyses were supportive of models which suggest that determining where to look next while reading is made on a nonrandom basis.", "contents": "Eye guidance in reading: fixation locations within words. Three broad categories of models of eye movement guidance in reading are described. According to one category, eye movements in reading are not under stimulus or cognitive control; the other two categories indicate that cognitive activities or stimulus characteristics are involved in eye guidance. In this study a number of descriptive analyses of eye movements in reading were carried out. These analyses dealt with fixation locations on letters within words of various lengths, conditional probabilities that a word will be fixed given that a prior word was or was not fixated, and average saccade length as a function of the length of the word to the right of the fixated word. The results of these analyses were supportive of models which suggest that determining where to look next while reading is made on a nonrandom basis.", "PMID": 432075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_961", "title": "The relationship between brightness contrast and illusory contours.", "content": "One group of subjects rated differences in brightness and another the clarity of illusory contours for eight figure-ground combinations of the Kanizsa and Ehrenstein patterns made from Munsell papers. For four combinations there was a difference in Munsell value (brightness) between figure and ground and for another four no difference. For the latter the pattern was derived from differences in hue or colour quality. For the combinations with a Munsell value difference the ratings of both brightness difference and contour clarity were high and for those of uniform value both were low. The results are interpreted as supporting the argument that illusory contours derive primarily from contrast-induced differences in brightness and possibly in colour between contiguous, physically uniform regions.", "contents": "The relationship between brightness contrast and illusory contours. One group of subjects rated differences in brightness and another the clarity of illusory contours for eight figure-ground combinations of the Kanizsa and Ehrenstein patterns made from Munsell papers. For four combinations there was a difference in Munsell value (brightness) between figure and ground and for another four no difference. For the latter the pattern was derived from differences in hue or colour quality. For the combinations with a Munsell value difference the ratings of both brightness difference and contour clarity were high and for those of uniform value both were low. The results are interpreted as supporting the argument that illusory contours derive primarily from contrast-induced differences in brightness and possibly in colour between contiguous, physically uniform regions.", "PMID": 432076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_962", "title": "Hans Gertz revisited: the different effects of invisibility and darkness on pursuit eye movements.", "content": "Subjects were required to track their self-moved hands with smooth eye movements in total darkness. The effect of holding transparent and opaque screens between the eyes and the hand upon pursuit eye movements was examined. Opaque screens produced a significant decrement in pursuit when the eye was moving in a direction in which it was generally less efficient at making smooth eye movements.", "contents": "Hans Gertz revisited: the different effects of invisibility and darkness on pursuit eye movements. Subjects were required to track their self-moved hands with smooth eye movements in total darkness. The effect of holding transparent and opaque screens between the eyes and the hand upon pursuit eye movements was examined. Opaque screens produced a significant decrement in pursuit when the eye was moving in a direction in which it was generally less efficient at making smooth eye movements.", "PMID": 432077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_963", "title": "Recalibration of the convergence system.", "content": "Adaptation to convergence-altering prism spectacles was studied. The subjects were trained for 8 min with either convergence-increasing or convergence-decreasing prisms. Before and after training they estimated the distance to a binocular dot varying in the stimulus it provided to convergence. Both the preadaptation and postadaptation estimates showed that the reciprocal of estimated target distance is linearly related to convergence. Further there was a consistent change in the direction of adaptation expected from the preadaptation to the postadaptation test. This change was accounted for in terms of a recalibration of the effective absolute convergence level.", "contents": "Recalibration of the convergence system. Adaptation to convergence-altering prism spectacles was studied. The subjects were trained for 8 min with either convergence-increasing or convergence-decreasing prisms. Before and after training they estimated the distance to a binocular dot varying in the stimulus it provided to convergence. Both the preadaptation and postadaptation estimates showed that the reciprocal of estimated target distance is linearly related to convergence. Further there was a consistent change in the direction of adaptation expected from the preadaptation to the postadaptation test. This change was accounted for in terms of a recalibration of the effective absolute convergence level.", "PMID": 432078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_964", "title": "A perceptual phenomenon and its neurophysiological correlate.", "content": "A square-wave grating from which the fundamental harmonic has been subtracted (missing fundamental grating) when viewed from a suitable distance appears similar to another grating of periodicity three times higher. The neurons of the visual cortex of the cat, in a given range of spatial frequencies characteristic of each cell, give similar responses to the two gratings.", "contents": "A perceptual phenomenon and its neurophysiological correlate. A square-wave grating from which the fundamental harmonic has been subtracted (missing fundamental grating) when viewed from a suitable distance appears similar to another grating of periodicity three times higher. The neurons of the visual cortex of the cat, in a given range of spatial frequencies characteristic of each cell, give similar responses to the two gratings.", "PMID": 432079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_965", "title": "A comparison of visual tilt illusions measured by the techniques of verticle setting, parallel matching, and dot alignment.", "content": "The tilt illusion (TI) was investigated by using both short (19 min) and long (2 deg 6 min) test lines, at three angles of test line-inducing line separation (15 degrees, 45 degrees, and 75 degrees). Three groups of ten observers each provided data under one of three task conditions: vertical judgment, parallel matching, and dot alignment on a common visual display. The main result was that both the vertical judgment and the parallel matching task provided similar, classic TI angular functions with the means ordered 15 degrees greater than 45 degrees greater than 75 degrees and with small attraction effects at 75 degrees in three of the four relevant functions. The third task, dot alignment, yielded results different from the average of the other two: no attraction effects occurred and, with the short test line, the obtained mean illusion at 45 degrees exceeded those at the other intersect angles. These results are consistent with alignment data reported by others. One explanation is that the inducing line produces an apparent bowing of the test line which would be reflected in dot alignments but not in vertical setting or in parallel matching. However, direct evidence does not support this hypothesis. An alternate hypothesis, for which independent evidence exists, is that alignment errors reflect perceptual mistracking but that the origin of these errors is not the tip of the test line but within it. Although this does not explain dot alignment errors, it highlights their complexity and the need to interpret them with caution.", "contents": "A comparison of visual tilt illusions measured by the techniques of verticle setting, parallel matching, and dot alignment. The tilt illusion (TI) was investigated by using both short (19 min) and long (2 deg 6 min) test lines, at three angles of test line-inducing line separation (15 degrees, 45 degrees, and 75 degrees). Three groups of ten observers each provided data under one of three task conditions: vertical judgment, parallel matching, and dot alignment on a common visual display. The main result was that both the vertical judgment and the parallel matching task provided similar, classic TI angular functions with the means ordered 15 degrees greater than 45 degrees greater than 75 degrees and with small attraction effects at 75 degrees in three of the four relevant functions. The third task, dot alignment, yielded results different from the average of the other two: no attraction effects occurred and, with the short test line, the obtained mean illusion at 45 degrees exceeded those at the other intersect angles. These results are consistent with alignment data reported by others. One explanation is that the inducing line produces an apparent bowing of the test line which would be reflected in dot alignments but not in vertical setting or in parallel matching. However, direct evidence does not support this hypothesis. An alternate hypothesis, for which independent evidence exists, is that alignment errors reflect perceptual mistracking but that the origin of these errors is not the tip of the test line but within it. Although this does not explain dot alignment errors, it highlights their complexity and the need to interpret them with caution.", "PMID": 432080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_966", "title": "Frequency, phase, and colour coding in apparent motion.", "content": "We present some results which indicate that the known spatiotemporal limits for apparent motion are consistent with the motion being sinusoidal or a result of filtering. Given this we investigated how two such motions interact as a function of their relative temporal phase differences. This was accomplished by inducing two independent motions from complementary coloured event pairs. Results indicated critical phase limits for perceiving the two motions (red and green) which were consistent with the frequency specificity of the effect. The results are discussed within the framework of a filtering process for the perception of apparent motion.", "contents": "Frequency, phase, and colour coding in apparent motion. We present some results which indicate that the known spatiotemporal limits for apparent motion are consistent with the motion being sinusoidal or a result of filtering. Given this we investigated how two such motions interact as a function of their relative temporal phase differences. This was accomplished by inducing two independent motions from complementary coloured event pairs. Results indicated critical phase limits for perceiving the two motions (red and green) which were consistent with the frequency specificity of the effect. The results are discussed within the framework of a filtering process for the perception of apparent motion.", "PMID": 432081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_967", "title": "On the limits of Fourier decompostitions in visual texture perception.", "content": "Recent discoveries of nonlinear perceptual analyzers in effortless texture discrimination cast serious doubt on the usefulness of Fourier image decompositions to describe suprathreshold visual-texture perception. We now explain the meaning of these results.", "contents": "On the limits of Fourier decompostitions in visual texture perception. Recent discoveries of nonlinear perceptual analyzers in effortless texture discrimination cast serious doubt on the usefulness of Fourier image decompositions to describe suprathreshold visual-texture perception. We now explain the meaning of these results.", "PMID": 432082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_968", "title": "Texture discrimination and the analysis of proximity.", "content": "A major theory of early visual processing has recently been proposed by Marr, which considers a number of aspects of visual perception in great detail, including grouping and texture discrimination. New phenomena associated with texture discrimination are described and experiments reported which allow a preliminary comparison of Marr's theory, as it applies to texture discrimination, with more established theories such as that due to Julesz. One experiment produced results which are clearly consistent with Marr's account, but the ability of his theory to deal with additional data on region suppression is not established. The theory of the analysis of proximity relations proposed by Fox offers a broadly satisfactory account of many texture perception results, while relying on the more fundamental parts of Marr's theory of primitive visual processes to deal with the remainder. A further attraction of proximity analysis is that it may shed new light on the classical paradox of symmetry perception. Some ways in which the preliminary proximity analysis model is incomplete are discussed, and it is concluded that development of the model may be profitable for theories of early visual processing.", "contents": "Texture discrimination and the analysis of proximity. A major theory of early visual processing has recently been proposed by Marr, which considers a number of aspects of visual perception in great detail, including grouping and texture discrimination. New phenomena associated with texture discrimination are described and experiments reported which allow a preliminary comparison of Marr's theory, as it applies to texture discrimination, with more established theories such as that due to Julesz. One experiment produced results which are clearly consistent with Marr's account, but the ability of his theory to deal with additional data on region suppression is not established. The theory of the analysis of proximity relations proposed by Fox offers a broadly satisfactory account of many texture perception results, while relying on the more fundamental parts of Marr's theory of primitive visual processes to deal with the remainder. A further attraction of proximity analysis is that it may shed new light on the classical paradox of symmetry perception. Some ways in which the preliminary proximity analysis model is incomplete are discussed, and it is concluded that development of the model may be profitable for theories of early visual processing.", "PMID": 432083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_969", "title": "Auditory texture perception.", "content": "A set of three studies was designed to investigate the role of touch-produced sounds in the perception of surface texture. Subjects were capable of judging roughness on the basis of sounds alone. Auditory judgments were similar, but not identical to corresponding haptic touch judgments. When both sources of information were available, subjects tended to use the tactile cues. The nature of the auditory stimulus for roughness is considered.", "contents": "Auditory texture perception. A set of three studies was designed to investigate the role of touch-produced sounds in the perception of surface texture. Subjects were capable of judging roughness on the basis of sounds alone. Auditory judgments were similar, but not identical to corresponding haptic touch judgments. When both sources of information were available, subjects tended to use the tactile cues. The nature of the auditory stimulus for roughness is considered.", "PMID": 432084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_970", "title": "[Factors affecting cell counts in milk from individual cows (author's transl)].", "content": "The number of somatic cells was determined in samples from approx. 700 cows in 70 herds, altogether 2570 samples. The average cell count was 250 thousands per ml with range from 7 thousands to 5 mill. The data were analysed with respect to effect of age of the cow, stage of lactation, and test day yield. The analyses showed that the cell count was strongly affected by age and yield. The effect of yield is removed by multiplying the recorded cell count by milk yield (cell count in thousands per ml times milk yield in kg congruent to total cell count in mill.). The cell count increases approximately linearly by increasing age of the cow up to 9--10 years, when it is about five times as large as for two-year-old cows. This increase is partly caused by a higher frequency of infection in older cows, but there was a distinct trend in the same direction even for cows which were noninfected when the sample was collected. After elimination of the effect of yield there was a slight drop in the cell count by advancing lactation.", "contents": "[Factors affecting cell counts in milk from individual cows (author's transl)]. The number of somatic cells was determined in samples from approx. 700 cows in 70 herds, altogether 2570 samples. The average cell count was 250 thousands per ml with range from 7 thousands to 5 mill. The data were analysed with respect to effect of age of the cow, stage of lactation, and test day yield. The analyses showed that the cell count was strongly affected by age and yield. The effect of yield is removed by multiplying the recorded cell count by milk yield (cell count in thousands per ml times milk yield in kg congruent to total cell count in mill.). The cell count increases approximately linearly by increasing age of the cow up to 9--10 years, when it is about five times as large as for two-year-old cows. This increase is partly caused by a higher frequency of infection in older cows, but there was a distinct trend in the same direction even for cows which were noninfected when the sample was collected. After elimination of the effect of yield there was a slight drop in the cell count by advancing lactation.", "PMID": 432105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_971", "title": "Spectrofluorometric assay of chlorpromazine, half-life and pharmacokinetics of chlorpromazine in goats of different ages.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics studies in 48 experiments on the animals of different ages showed that the half-life of CPZ in kids (new born, 1 week and 3 weeks old) and goats (3 months old and adult animals) ranged from 1.47 to 1.86 hour while distribution half-life was only 0.11 to 0.17 hour. Volume of distribution of CPZ in kids and goats was much higher than 1 which indicated that the drug was extensively localized in the tissues. The elimination of CPZ was more rapid in the adult goats than in the kids. The half-life of CPZ was short and elimination was rapid in the goats as compared to the literature values for man, rat and dog. The differences are attributed primarily to the more rapid metabolism of CPZ in the goats than in the kids or man, rat and dog.", "contents": "Spectrofluorometric assay of chlorpromazine, half-life and pharmacokinetics of chlorpromazine in goats of different ages. The pharmacokinetics studies in 48 experiments on the animals of different ages showed that the half-life of CPZ in kids (new born, 1 week and 3 weeks old) and goats (3 months old and adult animals) ranged from 1.47 to 1.86 hour while distribution half-life was only 0.11 to 0.17 hour. Volume of distribution of CPZ in kids and goats was much higher than 1 which indicated that the drug was extensively localized in the tissues. The elimination of CPZ was more rapid in the adult goats than in the kids. The half-life of CPZ was short and elimination was rapid in the goats as compared to the literature values for man, rat and dog. The differences are attributed primarily to the more rapid metabolism of CPZ in the goats than in the kids or man, rat and dog.", "PMID": 432106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_972", "title": "A field survey of fat mobilization and liver function of dairy cows during early lactation. Relationship to energy balance, appetite and ketosis.", "content": "NEFA, total lipids, bilirubin, GOT, acetoacetate and glucose in blood plasma of cows were measured during early lactation. Feeding and yield were also recorded. NEFA and bilirubin values showed a gradual decrease with advancing lactation, while total lipids rose gradually during the first months of lactation. GOT showed no definite trend during early lactation. Acetoacetate values were at maximum 21--30 days post partum and glucose values were high at partus and low during the first weeks of lactation. NEFA were negatively correlated to energy balance during the first month of lactation. Total lipids, bilirubin and GOT seemed not to be dependent on energy balance in cows with normal appetite. NEFA, bilirubin and GOT were significantly elevated in cows with reduced appetite. NEFA were positively correlated to bilirubin, GOT and acetoacetate and negatively correlated to glucose. The correlation coefficients were higher during the first month of lactation than during the second and third month. Cows contracting clinical ketosis showed high values of NEFA a long time before any clinical symptoms appeared. Significantly increased values of acetoacetate occurred only the last days before treatment when plasma glucose had reached low values.", "contents": "A field survey of fat mobilization and liver function of dairy cows during early lactation. Relationship to energy balance, appetite and ketosis. NEFA, total lipids, bilirubin, GOT, acetoacetate and glucose in blood plasma of cows were measured during early lactation. Feeding and yield were also recorded. NEFA and bilirubin values showed a gradual decrease with advancing lactation, while total lipids rose gradually during the first months of lactation. GOT showed no definite trend during early lactation. Acetoacetate values were at maximum 21--30 days post partum and glucose values were high at partus and low during the first weeks of lactation. NEFA were negatively correlated to energy balance during the first month of lactation. Total lipids, bilirubin and GOT seemed not to be dependent on energy balance in cows with normal appetite. NEFA, bilirubin and GOT were significantly elevated in cows with reduced appetite. NEFA were positively correlated to bilirubin, GOT and acetoacetate and negatively correlated to glucose. The correlation coefficients were higher during the first month of lactation than during the second and third month. Cows contracting clinical ketosis showed high values of NEFA a long time before any clinical symptoms appeared. Significantly increased values of acetoacetate occurred only the last days before treatment when plasma glucose had reached low values.", "PMID": 432107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_973", "title": "[An information system for a department of nuclear medicine (author's transl)].", "content": "A computer system is connected on-line to each working place of a department for nuclear medicine. It is assisting the daily work such as the measuring and processing of the measured data, the medical interpretation of the results and the finding of the diagnosis, and finally the composing and writing of medical reports. Additionally this system supports the organization of the department in many ways. The organisation and functions of the system are described.", "contents": "[An information system for a department of nuclear medicine (author's transl)]. A computer system is connected on-line to each working place of a department for nuclear medicine. It is assisting the daily work such as the measuring and processing of the measured data, the medical interpretation of the results and the finding of the diagnosis, and finally the composing and writing of medical reports. Additionally this system supports the organization of the department in many ways. The organisation and functions of the system are described.", "PMID": 432108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_974", "title": "[Correction of unilateral 131I-hippuran clearance by sonographic evaluation of kidney depth (author's transl)].", "content": "In 47 patients the value of kidney depth measurements for the correction of unilateral 131-I-hippuran clearances was studied using ultrasonography. The accuracy of this method was found to be superior to that of the lateral scintigram. In cases with normal cranio-caudal position or slight unilateral caudal dystopia the maximum difference in kidney depth was 1.25 cm and a maximum correction of the unilateral clearance in 2.8% was necessary. Kidneys with unilateral caudal dystopia differed up to 6 cm in depth, leading to a correction by 12%. Our findings indicate that a correction for kidney depth is necessary if one kidney shows significant caudal dystopia and slight dystopia in the supine position. In patients with nephroptosis position-dependent alterations of unilateral perfusion can only be evaluated by correcting for kidney depth.", "contents": "[Correction of unilateral 131I-hippuran clearance by sonographic evaluation of kidney depth (author's transl)]. In 47 patients the value of kidney depth measurements for the correction of unilateral 131-I-hippuran clearances was studied using ultrasonography. The accuracy of this method was found to be superior to that of the lateral scintigram. In cases with normal cranio-caudal position or slight unilateral caudal dystopia the maximum difference in kidney depth was 1.25 cm and a maximum correction of the unilateral clearance in 2.8% was necessary. Kidneys with unilateral caudal dystopia differed up to 6 cm in depth, leading to a correction by 12%. Our findings indicate that a correction for kidney depth is necessary if one kidney shows significant caudal dystopia and slight dystopia in the supine position. In patients with nephroptosis position-dependent alterations of unilateral perfusion can only be evaluated by correcting for kidney depth.", "PMID": 432109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_975", "title": "[Evaluation of isotope nephrograms by the deconvolution method (author's transl)].", "content": "By means of deconvolution, which can be preformed simply with a minicomputer, a new function is derived from the circulation activity time function and the renal activity time function. This function describes the impulse response of the system \"Kidney\". The activity time functions are determined with a four-probe counter. The impulse response allows statements about the time during which the activity remains in the kidney, the relative blood flow of both kidneys and a so-called passage time distribution. It was also attempted to substitute the circulation activity time function by a derivative of the bladder activity time function.", "contents": "[Evaluation of isotope nephrograms by the deconvolution method (author's transl)]. By means of deconvolution, which can be preformed simply with a minicomputer, a new function is derived from the circulation activity time function and the renal activity time function. This function describes the impulse response of the system \"Kidney\". The activity time functions are determined with a four-probe counter. The impulse response allows statements about the time during which the activity remains in the kidney, the relative blood flow of both kidneys and a so-called passage time distribution. It was also attempted to substitute the circulation activity time function by a derivative of the bladder activity time function.", "PMID": 432110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_976", "title": "[Kinetics of whole-body water and bromide space in patients with liver cirrhosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The kinetics of extracellular water (82Br) and total body water (THO) in controls and patients with liver cirrhosis are studied. Analysis of the plasma activity of the radionuclides as a function of time shows that distribution volumes and kinetics can be described by a linear open three-compartment model and that the volumes are of about equal size. Measuring is carried out in the central compartment in which the radionuclides are injected as a bolus. In cirrhotic patients equilibration into a third compartment is attained about four times slower than in controls. Elimination is reduced by about the same factor. Reduced diffusion and effective blood flow in the cirrhotic patients are discussed as possible reasons for the differences.", "contents": "[Kinetics of whole-body water and bromide space in patients with liver cirrhosis (author's transl)]. The kinetics of extracellular water (82Br) and total body water (THO) in controls and patients with liver cirrhosis are studied. Analysis of the plasma activity of the radionuclides as a function of time shows that distribution volumes and kinetics can be described by a linear open three-compartment model and that the volumes are of about equal size. Measuring is carried out in the central compartment in which the radionuclides are injected as a bolus. In cirrhotic patients equilibration into a third compartment is attained about four times slower than in controls. Elimination is reduced by about the same factor. Reduced diffusion and effective blood flow in the cirrhotic patients are discussed as possible reasons for the differences.", "PMID": 432111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_977", "title": "Identification and management of juvenile hypertension.", "content": "Juvenile hypertension is a new field of study, and a definitive approach to diagnosis and treatment has not yet been developed. This article outlines the approach at the hypertension clinic of Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, where experience has confirmed the value of routine blood pressure measurement from an early age. Early identification and treatment may reverse target organ damage in youngsters with moderately severe or severe hypertension and may prevent sustained hypertension in those with borderline pressure elevations.", "contents": "Identification and management of juvenile hypertension. Juvenile hypertension is a new field of study, and a definitive approach to diagnosis and treatment has not yet been developed. This article outlines the approach at the hypertension clinic of Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, where experience has confirmed the value of routine blood pressure measurement from an early age. Early identification and treatment may reverse target organ damage in youngsters with moderately severe or severe hypertension and may prevent sustained hypertension in those with borderline pressure elevations.", "PMID": 432144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_978", "title": "Hypertension in the elderly: special considerations in treatment.", "content": "The goal of antihypertensive therapy in the elderly should be to reduce systolic blood pressure to 140 mm Hg and diastolic pressure to 100 mm Hg without disturbing cerebral or coronary blood flow or depressing cerebral function. This goal can usually be accomplished by using half doses of thiazide diuretics alone or in combination with half doses of hydralazine. Drugs which produce postural hypotension or depress cardiac output and cerebral function should not be used.", "contents": "Hypertension in the elderly: special considerations in treatment. The goal of antihypertensive therapy in the elderly should be to reduce systolic blood pressure to 140 mm Hg and diastolic pressure to 100 mm Hg without disturbing cerebral or coronary blood flow or depressing cerebral function. This goal can usually be accomplished by using half doses of thiazide diuretics alone or in combination with half doses of hydralazine. Drugs which produce postural hypotension or depress cardiac output and cerebral function should not be used.", "PMID": 432145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_979", "title": "Primary care of ocular emergencies. 1. Traumatic injuries.", "content": "The primary care physician often must shoulder the heavy medical (and often legal) responsibility for diagnosis of ocular emergencies and for definitive or interim therapy. Proper and timely simple diagnostic procedures followed by appropriate therapy may mean the difference between permanent loss of sight or recovery of useful vision. Lacerations, contusions, and foreign-body injuries are discussed here.", "contents": "Primary care of ocular emergencies. 1. Traumatic injuries. The primary care physician often must shoulder the heavy medical (and often legal) responsibility for diagnosis of ocular emergencies and for definitive or interim therapy. Proper and timely simple diagnostic procedures followed by appropriate therapy may mean the difference between permanent loss of sight or recovery of useful vision. Lacerations, contusions, and foreign-body injuries are discussed here.", "PMID": 432146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_980", "title": "Primary care of ocular emergencies. 2. Thermal, chemical, and nontraumatic eye injuries.", "content": "First- and second-degree flash burns can be treated by the primary care physician, but third-degree burns will require a specialist for extensive debridement and skin grafting. Actinic keratitis, often associated with welding and snow skiing, is painful but can be treated with drugs in the office. There is no treatment for eclipse burn. Alkali is more toxic to the eye than is acid and can dill corneal epithelium and endothelium. All chemical burns require copious irrigation, but a patient with an alkali burn must be sent immediately thereafter to an ophthalmic surgeion. Acute glaucoma and acute occlusion of the central retinal artery are the two major nontraumatic eye emergencies. Patients with either of these injuries should be referred to a specialist after emergency measures have been taken.", "contents": "Primary care of ocular emergencies. 2. Thermal, chemical, and nontraumatic eye injuries. First- and second-degree flash burns can be treated by the primary care physician, but third-degree burns will require a specialist for extensive debridement and skin grafting. Actinic keratitis, often associated with welding and snow skiing, is painful but can be treated with drugs in the office. There is no treatment for eclipse burn. Alkali is more toxic to the eye than is acid and can dill corneal epithelium and endothelium. All chemical burns require copious irrigation, but a patient with an alkali burn must be sent immediately thereafter to an ophthalmic surgeion. Acute glaucoma and acute occlusion of the central retinal artery are the two major nontraumatic eye emergencies. Patients with either of these injuries should be referred to a specialist after emergency measures have been taken.", "PMID": 432147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_981", "title": "Temporomandibular joint disease: results of a ten-year study.", "content": "Ninety patients with clinically documented temporomandibular joint disease were followed for ten years. Sixty-four of these patients were treated by conservative means alone, and over 90% responded with complete relief of symptoms. Conservative therapy consisted primarily of jaw rest, with adjunctive use of heat, analgesics, and antiinflammatory agents.", "contents": "Temporomandibular joint disease: results of a ten-year study. Ninety patients with clinically documented temporomandibular joint disease were followed for ten years. Sixty-four of these patients were treated by conservative means alone, and over 90% responded with complete relief of symptoms. Conservative therapy consisted primarily of jaw rest, with adjunctive use of heat, analgesics, and antiinflammatory agents.", "PMID": 432148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_982", "title": "Poisoning in children: an approach for the primary physician.", "content": "Poisoning continues to be one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in young children. The Product Safety Packaging Act needs to be expanded to cover toxic agents and drugs known to be involved in the majority of ingestions. Those agents that are particularly toxic will require more stringent measures than safety packaging. The primary physician is in the position to institute rapid and appropriate therapy for most poisoning. Consideration of poisoning in making a presumptive diagnosis and early institution of general supportive measures are critical. Familiarity with techniques of gastric emptying and with use of activated charcoal and naloxone as antidotes is essential, as is s knowledge of when to refer patients for specialized care. By educating parents about poison proofing the home and about appropriate first aid measures, the primary physician can play an important role in poison prevention.", "contents": "Poisoning in children: an approach for the primary physician. Poisoning continues to be one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in young children. The Product Safety Packaging Act needs to be expanded to cover toxic agents and drugs known to be involved in the majority of ingestions. Those agents that are particularly toxic will require more stringent measures than safety packaging. The primary physician is in the position to institute rapid and appropriate therapy for most poisoning. Consideration of poisoning in making a presumptive diagnosis and early institution of general supportive measures are critical. Familiarity with techniques of gastric emptying and with use of activated charcoal and naloxone as antidotes is essential, as is s knowledge of when to refer patients for specialized care. By educating parents about poison proofing the home and about appropriate first aid measures, the primary physician can play an important role in poison prevention.", "PMID": 432149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_983", "title": "Aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva: its natural history.", "content": "This case demonstrates that complications develop with aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva. The aneurysm is diagnosed almost exclusively only after rupture. We feel that echocardiography provides a convenient means to follow cases of suspected aneurysms. A change in aortic root size may indicate imminent rupture. Fluttering of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve would suggest aortic insufficiency, while an increase in right ventricular size coupled with paradoxical septal motion would strongly suggest a left-to-right shunt. Change in a murmur or in the aortic silhouette probably warrants cardiac catheterization. If rupture is suggested by clinical findings and corroborated by catheterization, surgery is indicated to prevent progressive cardiac failure.", "contents": "Aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva: its natural history. This case demonstrates that complications develop with aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva. The aneurysm is diagnosed almost exclusively only after rupture. We feel that echocardiography provides a convenient means to follow cases of suspected aneurysms. A change in aortic root size may indicate imminent rupture. Fluttering of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve would suggest aortic insufficiency, while an increase in right ventricular size coupled with paradoxical septal motion would strongly suggest a left-to-right shunt. Change in a murmur or in the aortic silhouette probably warrants cardiac catheterization. If rupture is suggested by clinical findings and corroborated by catheterization, surgery is indicated to prevent progressive cardiac failure.", "PMID": 432151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_984", "title": "Sexuality during the climacteric.", "content": "Menopause is a time of psychologic adjustment as well as of physical change. Its effects are closely related to sexuality, a neglected aspect. Sexual desire may increase, decrease, or remain the same, but the general pattern is one of declining sexual interest and activity with increasing age. The male climacteric is considered a time of decreasing sexual activity and capability, lowered self-esteem, and declining energy. Physical symptoms are milder than in women, and the process if more gradual. Health care professionals involved with menopausal patients should provide factual information and give supportive guidance which will permit women to continue to develop their full sexual potential.", "contents": "Sexuality during the climacteric. Menopause is a time of psychologic adjustment as well as of physical change. Its effects are closely related to sexuality, a neglected aspect. Sexual desire may increase, decrease, or remain the same, but the general pattern is one of declining sexual interest and activity with increasing age. The male climacteric is considered a time of decreasing sexual activity and capability, lowered self-esteem, and declining energy. Physical symptoms are milder than in women, and the process if more gradual. Health care professionals involved with menopausal patients should provide factual information and give supportive guidance which will permit women to continue to develop their full sexual potential.", "PMID": 432152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_985", "title": "Counseling the menopausal patient.", "content": "The menopausal patient needs someone in whom she has confidence--preferably her family physician or obstetrician-gynecologist--to take the time to explain the changes of menopause, answer questions, and allay fears. Misconceptions concerning physical, emotional, and sexual effects should be corrected, and the advantages and disadvantages of hormone therapy should be discussed. Sympathetic counseling and proper medical supervision can guide women comfortably through the troubled waters of the menopause and into the safe harbor of the postmenopausal years.", "contents": "Counseling the menopausal patient. The menopausal patient needs someone in whom she has confidence--preferably her family physician or obstetrician-gynecologist--to take the time to explain the changes of menopause, answer questions, and allay fears. Misconceptions concerning physical, emotional, and sexual effects should be corrected, and the advantages and disadvantages of hormone therapy should be discussed. Sympathetic counseling and proper medical supervision can guide women comfortably through the troubled waters of the menopause and into the safe harbor of the postmenopausal years.", "PMID": 432153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_986", "title": "A behavioral approach to patient compliance.", "content": "A behavioral program for increasing a patient's compliance with a drug regimen can be administered by a physician or by trained health care personnel. The program focuses first on the development of a strong external cue to the timing of medication and then on helping the patient to have realistic expectations and to establish an appropriate self-reward for compliance. Monitoring of degree of compliance is essential to the success of the program, as is development of a cooperative, rather than authoritatian, relationship between physician and patient.", "contents": "A behavioral approach to patient compliance. A behavioral program for increasing a patient's compliance with a drug regimen can be administered by a physician or by trained health care personnel. The program focuses first on the development of a strong external cue to the timing of medication and then on helping the patient to have realistic expectations and to establish an appropriate self-reward for compliance. Monitoring of degree of compliance is essential to the success of the program, as is development of a cooperative, rather than authoritatian, relationship between physician and patient.", "PMID": 432154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_987", "title": "Childhood nephrotic syndrome: clinical associations and response to therapy.", "content": "The concept of nephrotic syndrome has changed from that of a single disease entity in children to that of a complex association of distinct types of glomerular histopathology and clinical courses. Nephrotic syndrome is steroid-responsive in the majority of children. The prognosis for steroid-responsive children is good, even for those who have frequent relapses requiring maintenance therapy or for those who become steroid-dependent. The disease rarely progresses to renal insufficiency or death in these patients. Cyclophosphamide and chlorambucil have proved effective only in steroid-responsive patients with minimal-lesion disease. Because of their toxicity, these agents should be limited to use in patients with severe steroid side effects. The effectiveness of these drugs in steroid-resistant diseases is unclear and still under investigation.", "contents": "Childhood nephrotic syndrome: clinical associations and response to therapy. The concept of nephrotic syndrome has changed from that of a single disease entity in children to that of a complex association of distinct types of glomerular histopathology and clinical courses. Nephrotic syndrome is steroid-responsive in the majority of children. The prognosis for steroid-responsive children is good, even for those who have frequent relapses requiring maintenance therapy or for those who become steroid-dependent. The disease rarely progresses to renal insufficiency or death in these patients. Cyclophosphamide and chlorambucil have proved effective only in steroid-responsive patients with minimal-lesion disease. Because of their toxicity, these agents should be limited to use in patients with severe steroid side effects. The effectiveness of these drugs in steroid-resistant diseases is unclear and still under investigation.", "PMID": 432155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_988", "title": "Genetic causes and workup of male and female infertility. 1. Prenatal reproductive loss.", "content": "Studies show that the greatest check on human reproduction occurs prenatally in apparently fertile couples. Most chromosomally abnormal embryos are aborted spontaneously. This paper, to be published in three parts, reviews the major known anatomic, functional, genetic, and environmental causes of infertility and reproductive wastage. The second and third parts, to appear in succeeding issues, are concerned with chromosome abnormalities and congenital malformations in the period from birth to adult life and with the diagnostic workup of infertile men and women.", "contents": "Genetic causes and workup of male and female infertility. 1. Prenatal reproductive loss. Studies show that the greatest check on human reproduction occurs prenatally in apparently fertile couples. Most chromosomally abnormal embryos are aborted spontaneously. This paper, to be published in three parts, reviews the major known anatomic, functional, genetic, and environmental causes of infertility and reproductive wastage. The second and third parts, to appear in succeeding issues, are concerned with chromosome abnormalities and congenital malformations in the period from birth to adult life and with the diagnostic workup of infertile men and women.", "PMID": 432156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_989", "title": "Generalized decline in psychologic functioning.", "content": "In late middle age, many patients consult physicians with nonspecific complaints involving a decline in mental functioning. Distinguishing between psychologic and organic causes of mental impairment, particularly between depression and dementia, is essential.", "contents": "Generalized decline in psychologic functioning. In late middle age, many patients consult physicians with nonspecific complaints involving a decline in mental functioning. Distinguishing between psychologic and organic causes of mental impairment, particularly between depression and dementia, is essential.", "PMID": 432157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_990", "title": "Possible association between peliosis hepatis and diethylstilbestrol: Report of two cases.", "content": "In the two cases presented here, peliosis hepatis occurred after prolonged administration of diethylstilbestrol for treatment of prostatic carcinoma. Hepatic dysfunction has not been reported in previous trials of this drug, and further study is needed to confirm an association between diethylstilbestrol and peliosis.", "contents": "Possible association between peliosis hepatis and diethylstilbestrol: Report of two cases. In the two cases presented here, peliosis hepatis occurred after prolonged administration of diethylstilbestrol for treatment of prostatic carcinoma. Hepatic dysfunction has not been reported in previous trials of this drug, and further study is needed to confirm an association between diethylstilbestrol and peliosis.", "PMID": 432158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_991", "title": "Fertility and cancer therapy.", "content": "With increased survival of increasing numbers of cancer patients as a result of therapy, the consequences, early and late, of the therapies must be realized. It is the treating physician's duty to preserve as much reproductive potential as possible for patients, consistent with adequate care. With radiotherapy this means shielding the gonads as much as possible, optimal but not excessive doses and fields, oophoropexy, or sperm collection and storage prior to irradiation. With chemotherapy it means the shortest exposure to drugs consistent with best treatment and prior to therapy the collection and storage of sperm where facilities are available. At present this is still an experimental procedure. Artificial insemination for a couple when the male has received cancer therapy is another alternative. Finally, it is the responsibility of physicians caring for patients with neoplasms to be knowledgeable about these and all other effects of therapy so that patients may be counseled appropriately and understand the implications of therapy for their life.", "contents": "Fertility and cancer therapy. With increased survival of increasing numbers of cancer patients as a result of therapy, the consequences, early and late, of the therapies must be realized. It is the treating physician's duty to preserve as much reproductive potential as possible for patients, consistent with adequate care. With radiotherapy this means shielding the gonads as much as possible, optimal but not excessive doses and fields, oophoropexy, or sperm collection and storage prior to irradiation. With chemotherapy it means the shortest exposure to drugs consistent with best treatment and prior to therapy the collection and storage of sperm where facilities are available. At present this is still an experimental procedure. Artificial insemination for a couple when the male has received cancer therapy is another alternative. Finally, it is the responsibility of physicians caring for patients with neoplasms to be knowledgeable about these and all other effects of therapy so that patients may be counseled appropriately and understand the implications of therapy for their life.", "PMID": 432160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_992", "title": "Practical approach to hypertension. 1. Diagnostic evaluation.", "content": "The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation once recommended for hypertension is no longer practical or necessary. In the majority of cases, a thorough history, physical examination, and basic laboratory workup are sufficient to determine the severity of the hypertension and to detect target organ damage. Secondary hypertension is truly rare in clinical practice and should not be pursued with complex, costly, and possibly risky tests unless specific indications are present.", "contents": "Practical approach to hypertension. 1. Diagnostic evaluation. The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation once recommended for hypertension is no longer practical or necessary. In the majority of cases, a thorough history, physical examination, and basic laboratory workup are sufficient to determine the severity of the hypertension and to detect target organ damage. Secondary hypertension is truly rare in clinical practice and should not be pursued with complex, costly, and possibly risky tests unless specific indications are present.", "PMID": 432161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_993", "title": "Practical approach to hypertension. 2. Treatment.", "content": "With information obtained from the hypertensive workup (described in part 1 of this article), the physician devises a treatment plan. A stepped-care approach is generally favored, with a diuretic, an adrenergic blocker, and a vasodilator being added in turn until blood pressure is brought under control. The indications and contraindications, dosages, and side effects of the most commonly used antihypertensive agents are discussed here, with suggestions for increasing compliance.", "contents": "Practical approach to hypertension. 2. Treatment. With information obtained from the hypertensive workup (described in part 1 of this article), the physician devises a treatment plan. A stepped-care approach is generally favored, with a diuretic, an adrenergic blocker, and a vasodilator being added in turn until blood pressure is brought under control. The indications and contraindications, dosages, and side effects of the most commonly used antihypertensive agents are discussed here, with suggestions for increasing compliance.", "PMID": 432162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_994", "title": "The cause of the raised plasma urea of acute heart failure.", "content": "The concentrations of urea, urate, phosphate and creatinine were measured in the plasma of 30 consecutive patients admitted acutely with heart failure. On admission, 20 had a raised plasma urea, 21 had a raised plasma urate, but only 6 had a raised plasma phosphate and only 6 had a raised plasma creatinine. A further 9 of the patients developed a raised plasma urea after admission. The increase in plasma urea present on admission was greater than expected for the fall in GFR (as indicated by the increase in plasma creatinine). The results for plasma and urine taken together suggest that a major cause of the raised plasma urea was an increased urea production rather than a reduced glomerular filtration rate. There was no obvious relationship between plasma urea and clinical features, or diuretic therapy.", "contents": "The cause of the raised plasma urea of acute heart failure. The concentrations of urea, urate, phosphate and creatinine were measured in the plasma of 30 consecutive patients admitted acutely with heart failure. On admission, 20 had a raised plasma urea, 21 had a raised plasma urate, but only 6 had a raised plasma phosphate and only 6 had a raised plasma creatinine. A further 9 of the patients developed a raised plasma urea after admission. The increase in plasma urea present on admission was greater than expected for the fall in GFR (as indicated by the increase in plasma creatinine). The results for plasma and urine taken together suggest that a major cause of the raised plasma urea was an increased urea production rather than a reduced glomerular filtration rate. There was no obvious relationship between plasma urea and clinical features, or diuretic therapy.", "PMID": 432164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_995", "title": "Limb salvage by femoral profundaplasty.", "content": "One hundred and seven profundaplasties have been performed for rest pain or gangrene due to advanced arterial degeneration below the inguinal ligament. Local anaesthesia was used for 78 operations. There were 19 early failures (2 deaths and 17 amputations) and 16 later amputations. During 4-5 years of follow-up, 25 other patients have died. The results for diabetic gangrene were worse than for other indications.", "contents": "Limb salvage by femoral profundaplasty. One hundred and seven profundaplasties have been performed for rest pain or gangrene due to advanced arterial degeneration below the inguinal ligament. Local anaesthesia was used for 78 operations. There were 19 early failures (2 deaths and 17 amputations) and 16 later amputations. During 4-5 years of follow-up, 25 other patients have died. The results for diabetic gangrene were worse than for other indications.", "PMID": 432165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_996", "title": "Fatal retroperitoneal haemorrhage complicating anticoagulant therapy.", "content": "Eight cases are reported of extensive retroperitoneal haemorrhage in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy who subsequently died and underwent postmortem examination. No patient had an obvious source of bleeding, and in 5 cases no other cause for death was apparent. Three patients had had vascular surgical procedures: the other 5 were given anticoagulants for suspected venous thrombo-embolism. Six cases presented as unexpected circulatory collapse with rapid demise. Four patients had in addition gastro-intestinal bleeding of varying degree, with no obvious source. This acute massive type of retroperitoneal bleeding contrasts with the commoner presentations of pain, swelling, bruising and compression neuropathy: a high index of suspicion and urgent treatment are required if mortality is to be reduced.", "contents": "Fatal retroperitoneal haemorrhage complicating anticoagulant therapy. Eight cases are reported of extensive retroperitoneal haemorrhage in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy who subsequently died and underwent postmortem examination. No patient had an obvious source of bleeding, and in 5 cases no other cause for death was apparent. Three patients had had vascular surgical procedures: the other 5 were given anticoagulants for suspected venous thrombo-embolism. Six cases presented as unexpected circulatory collapse with rapid demise. Four patients had in addition gastro-intestinal bleeding of varying degree, with no obvious source. This acute massive type of retroperitoneal bleeding contrasts with the commoner presentations of pain, swelling, bruising and compression neuropathy: a high index of suspicion and urgent treatment are required if mortality is to be reduced.", "PMID": 432166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_997", "title": "Teething complications, a persisting misconception.", "content": "Fifty children were admitted to hospital with symptoms of illness that were attributed, by the parent or general practitioner, to the process of teething in the course of one year. In all but 2 cases an organic cause, other than teething, could be found and the most serious conditions were meningitis in one patient and febrile convulsion in 11.", "contents": "Teething complications, a persisting misconception. Fifty children were admitted to hospital with symptoms of illness that were attributed, by the parent or general practitioner, to the process of teething in the course of one year. In all but 2 cases an organic cause, other than teething, could be found and the most serious conditions were meningitis in one patient and febrile convulsion in 11.", "PMID": 432167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_998", "title": "Scurvy and vitamin C deficiency in Crohn's disease.", "content": "A case of scurvy presenting in a patient with Crohn's disease is reported. A normal response to replacement therapy is seen. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency was found in 7 out of 10 patients with clinically quiescent Crohn's disease, 4 of whom had an adequate oral intake of vitamin C. There was no significant difference in oral intake between patients with Crohn's disease and matched controls but there was a significant difference (P less than 0.001) in leucocyte ascorbic acid levels. It is recommended that patients with Crohn's disease be screened for vitamin C deficiency and receive prophylactic vitamin C supplements daily.", "contents": "Scurvy and vitamin C deficiency in Crohn's disease. A case of scurvy presenting in a patient with Crohn's disease is reported. A normal response to replacement therapy is seen. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency was found in 7 out of 10 patients with clinically quiescent Crohn's disease, 4 of whom had an adequate oral intake of vitamin C. There was no significant difference in oral intake between patients with Crohn's disease and matched controls but there was a significant difference (P less than 0.001) in leucocyte ascorbic acid levels. It is recommended that patients with Crohn's disease be screened for vitamin C deficiency and receive prophylactic vitamin C supplements daily.", "PMID": 432168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_999", "title": "Extra-cranial aneurysm of the internal carotid artery treated by proximal ligation.", "content": "A case of aneurysm of the extra-cranial section of the internal carotid artery extending to the base of the skull is described. Treatment comprised proximal vessel ligation, the tolerance of the patient's cerebral circulation to this procedure first being assessed by measuring the back pressure across the circle of Willis after temporary carotid artery occlusion. The value of this technique is discussed.", "contents": "Extra-cranial aneurysm of the internal carotid artery treated by proximal ligation. A case of aneurysm of the extra-cranial section of the internal carotid artery extending to the base of the skull is described. Treatment comprised proximal vessel ligation, the tolerance of the patient's cerebral circulation to this procedure first being assessed by measuring the back pressure across the circle of Willis after temporary carotid artery occlusion. The value of this technique is discussed.", "PMID": 432169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1000", "title": "Myocardial infiltration with immature cells in hypereosinophilic syndrome.", "content": "A case of hypereosinophilic syndrome is reported. Investigation failed to reveal any precipitating cause or evidence of leukaemia. Death was due to intractable cardiac failure, and post-mortem examination showed infiltration of the myocardium with sheets of immature cells. The relevance of these cells is discussed and further investigation such as cardiac biopsy is suggested for similar cases.", "contents": "Myocardial infiltration with immature cells in hypereosinophilic syndrome. A case of hypereosinophilic syndrome is reported. Investigation failed to reveal any precipitating cause or evidence of leukaemia. Death was due to intractable cardiac failure, and post-mortem examination showed infiltration of the myocardium with sheets of immature cells. The relevance of these cells is discussed and further investigation such as cardiac biopsy is suggested for similar cases.", "PMID": 432170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1001", "title": "Primary malignant lymphoma of lung.", "content": "Primary malignant lymphoma of the lung is a rare variety of lymphosarcoma, to be distinguished from secondary lung involvement in disseminated malignant lymphoma. The condition tends to remain localized to the lung, and lymph nodes are not involved. The prognosis is better than in disseminated malignant lymphoma, and in the case described here a 35-year-old woman was treated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy and survived 20 years.", "contents": "Primary malignant lymphoma of lung. Primary malignant lymphoma of the lung is a rare variety of lymphosarcoma, to be distinguished from secondary lung involvement in disseminated malignant lymphoma. The condition tends to remain localized to the lung, and lymph nodes are not involved. The prognosis is better than in disseminated malignant lymphoma, and in the case described here a 35-year-old woman was treated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy and survived 20 years.", "PMID": 432173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1002", "title": "Leiomyoma of the duodenum presenting as a pyogenic liver abscess.", "content": "Leiomyoma of the duodenum is a rare condition which is most often diagnosed only as an incidental finding at post-mortem. It may present clinically with pain or haemorrhage. A case is described of degeneration of a leiomyoma of the fourth part of the duodenum giving rise to pyogenic liver abscess. There is no previous report of this association in the literature.", "contents": "Leiomyoma of the duodenum presenting as a pyogenic liver abscess. Leiomyoma of the duodenum is a rare condition which is most often diagnosed only as an incidental finding at post-mortem. It may present clinically with pain or haemorrhage. A case is described of degeneration of a leiomyoma of the fourth part of the duodenum giving rise to pyogenic liver abscess. There is no previous report of this association in the literature.", "PMID": 432174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1003", "title": "Adult pre-sacral teratoma.", "content": "The clinical details and management of an adult female patient with a pre-sacral teratoma causing obstructed labour are described.", "contents": "Adult pre-sacral teratoma. The clinical details and management of an adult female patient with a pre-sacral teratoma causing obstructed labour are described.", "PMID": 432175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1004", "title": "Volvulus of the transverse colon.", "content": "Volvulus of the transverse colon is a rare condition requiring early diagnosis and treatment. In the absence of ischaemic changes within the redundant bowel, success can be anticipated with conservative fixation procedures. A case is reported which was treated by reduction, decompression and parallel colopexy. Although this disease has been infrequently reported in the past there may well be an increasing incidence with the introduction of high fibre diets and the use of the colonoscope.", "contents": "Volvulus of the transverse colon. Volvulus of the transverse colon is a rare condition requiring early diagnosis and treatment. In the absence of ischaemic changes within the redundant bowel, success can be anticipated with conservative fixation procedures. A case is reported which was treated by reduction, decompression and parallel colopexy. Although this disease has been infrequently reported in the past there may well be an increasing incidence with the introduction of high fibre diets and the use of the colonoscope.", "PMID": 432176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1005", "title": "Anorexia nervosa presenting as foot drop.", "content": "A patient with anorexia nervosa is reported whose presentation with foot drop was to a neurological department. Bilateral peroneal nerve palsies were subsequently demonstrated. The aetiology of these transient palsies is discussed.", "contents": "Anorexia nervosa presenting as foot drop. A patient with anorexia nervosa is reported whose presentation with foot drop was to a neurological department. Bilateral peroneal nerve palsies were subsequently demonstrated. The aetiology of these transient palsies is discussed.", "PMID": 432177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1006", "title": "Pregnancy rate of a progestogen oral contraceptive.", "content": "The results of this survey show that 0.5 mg of ethynodiol diacetate (Femulen) is a reliable oral contraceptive with a pregnancy rate calculated by the Pearl Index of 0.52 per 100 women years. This is superior to the failure rates for both 0.075 mg dl norgestrel and 0.35mg norethisterone and approximates more closely with the claimed failure rates for combined oestrogen/progestogen preparations. There is no evidence which suggests that side effects occur with prolonged use of Femulen therapy.", "contents": "Pregnancy rate of a progestogen oral contraceptive. The results of this survey show that 0.5 mg of ethynodiol diacetate (Femulen) is a reliable oral contraceptive with a pregnancy rate calculated by the Pearl Index of 0.52 per 100 women years. This is superior to the failure rates for both 0.075 mg dl norgestrel and 0.35mg norethisterone and approximates more closely with the claimed failure rates for combined oestrogen/progestogen preparations. There is no evidence which suggests that side effects occur with prolonged use of Femulen therapy.", "PMID": 432188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1007", "title": "Synthesis and pharmacological screening of certain N-substituted amides structurally related to some local anesthetics.", "content": "Diphenylacetyl chloride and pivaloyl chloride have been condensed with a wide variety of amines. Some of the resulting amides showed local anesthetic properties higher than those of procaine hydrochloride.", "contents": "Synthesis and pharmacological screening of certain N-substituted amides structurally related to some local anesthetics. Diphenylacetyl chloride and pivaloyl chloride have been condensed with a wide variety of amines. Some of the resulting amides showed local anesthetic properties higher than those of procaine hydrochloride.", "PMID": 432249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1008", "title": "Synthesis of some newer piperazinoquinazolones as cardiovascular agents.", "content": "Twenty nine new substituted 2-methyl-3-(gamma-piperazino-propiophenyl)-4-quinazolone hydrochlorides were synthesised by the Mannich reaction of substituted quinazolones with substituted piperazines and evaluated for their cardiovascular activity. Several compounds of the series exhibited marked and sustained hypotensive activity.", "contents": "Synthesis of some newer piperazinoquinazolones as cardiovascular agents. Twenty nine new substituted 2-methyl-3-(gamma-piperazino-propiophenyl)-4-quinazolone hydrochlorides were synthesised by the Mannich reaction of substituted quinazolones with substituted piperazines and evaluated for their cardiovascular activity. Several compounds of the series exhibited marked and sustained hypotensive activity.", "PMID": 432250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1009", "title": "[Azoles. Part 5: On halogen-nitroindazole derivatives and their antibacterial properties (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors describe a modified procedure for the synthesis of the 3-halogenindazole derivatives 1--7 and of the 1-hydroxymethylindazole derivatives 8--14. The compounds 8--13 yield the corresponding 1-chloromethyl derivatives 15--20, and 23 is obtained from 3. The compounds 7--23 exert slight antibacterial effects.", "contents": "[Azoles. Part 5: On halogen-nitroindazole derivatives and their antibacterial properties (author's transl)]. The authors describe a modified procedure for the synthesis of the 3-halogenindazole derivatives 1--7 and of the 1-hydroxymethylindazole derivatives 8--14. The compounds 8--13 yield the corresponding 1-chloromethyl derivatives 15--20, and 23 is obtained from 3. The compounds 7--23 exert slight antibacterial effects.", "PMID": 432251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1010", "title": "Physico-chemical analysis of systems with a main component acetylsalicylic acid in ethanol-water mixtures. Part 3: Systems containing calcium acetylsalicylate.", "content": "The systems C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-25% ethanol-water mixture (I), C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-50% ethanol-water mixture (II), C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-95% ethanol-water mixture (III) have been investigated at 15 degrees C by physico-chemical analytical methods. It was established that under the conditions of the no experiments no double or triple compounds of acetylsalicylic acid and calcium acetylsalicylate have been formed. The fields of the crystallization of the pure components are outlined. In systems I and II there exist crystallization fields of (C9H7O4)2Ca - 2H2O and in system III field of (C9H7O4)2Ca. The anhydrous salt and the crystalline hydrate were isolated and were investigated by chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis.", "contents": "Physico-chemical analysis of systems with a main component acetylsalicylic acid in ethanol-water mixtures. Part 3: Systems containing calcium acetylsalicylate. The systems C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-25% ethanol-water mixture (I), C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-50% ethanol-water mixture (II), C9H8O4-(C9H7O4)2Ca-95% ethanol-water mixture (III) have been investigated at 15 degrees C by physico-chemical analytical methods. It was established that under the conditions of the no experiments no double or triple compounds of acetylsalicylic acid and calcium acetylsalicylate have been formed. The fields of the crystallization of the pure components are outlined. In systems I and II there exist crystallization fields of (C9H7O4)2Ca - 2H2O and in system III field of (C9H7O4)2Ca. The anhydrous salt and the crystalline hydrate were isolated and were investigated by chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis.", "PMID": 432252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1011", "title": "[Ultra-violet spectrophotometry in drug control. Part 23: Conclusions from the spectrophotometric behaviour of drugs with pyridine, naphthalene, quinoline and isoquinoline chromophores (author's transl)].", "content": "The results from a systematic study of drugs with pyridine, naphthalene, quinoline and isoquinoline chromophores are evaluated and condensed into conclusions. In addition to previously reported findings, the ultra-violet and visible spectra of a further nine drugs containing the mentioned chromophores are presented.", "contents": "[Ultra-violet spectrophotometry in drug control. Part 23: Conclusions from the spectrophotometric behaviour of drugs with pyridine, naphthalene, quinoline and isoquinoline chromophores (author's transl)]. The results from a systematic study of drugs with pyridine, naphthalene, quinoline and isoquinoline chromophores are evaluated and condensed into conclusions. In addition to previously reported findings, the ultra-violet and visible spectra of a further nine drugs containing the mentioned chromophores are presented.", "PMID": 432253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1012", "title": "Stability of acetylsalicylic acid in divided powders in the presence of aminophenazone.", "content": "The combination of acetylsalicylic acid with aminophenazone, often prescribed in divided powders, is considered to be incompatible. High performance liquid chromatography was applied to determine the content of salicylic acid which is the main known product from the decomposition of acetylsalicylic acid. The analysis of model samples containing a 1:1 (by weight) mixture of acetylsalicylic acid and aminophenazone, after having been stored under usual conditions in starch capsules, showed that the decomposition of acetylsalicylic acid into salicylic acid did not exceed 0.8% even after ten weeks.", "contents": "Stability of acetylsalicylic acid in divided powders in the presence of aminophenazone. The combination of acetylsalicylic acid with aminophenazone, often prescribed in divided powders, is considered to be incompatible. High performance liquid chromatography was applied to determine the content of salicylic acid which is the main known product from the decomposition of acetylsalicylic acid. The analysis of model samples containing a 1:1 (by weight) mixture of acetylsalicylic acid and aminophenazone, after having been stored under usual conditions in starch capsules, showed that the decomposition of acetylsalicylic acid into salicylic acid did not exceed 0.8% even after ten weeks.", "PMID": 432254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1013", "title": "[Interactions between macromolecular adjuvants and drugs. Part 16: Effects of human serum albumin and Mg2+ on oxytetracycline-polyvinylpyrrolidone interactions (author's transl)].", "content": "Equilibrium dialyses and fluorescent spectroscopic measurements demonstrated that human serum albumin (HSA) affects the oxytetracycline (OTC)--polyvinyl-pyrrolidone K 90 (PVP) interactions. The preferential binding of OTC with HSA, as compared to PVP, was evidenced by means of a three-compartment model. The binding values increased with the increase of the portion of PVP in the PVP-HSA mixture. Superadditive OTC bindings occurred at a ratio of 1:1 (by weight). The addition of Mg2+ to PVP-containing solutions, at a molar ratio of 1:1, also produced an increase of the interactions of this antibiotic with PVP, whereby maximal OTC-PVP bindings of 50--60% were reached.", "contents": "[Interactions between macromolecular adjuvants and drugs. Part 16: Effects of human serum albumin and Mg2+ on oxytetracycline-polyvinylpyrrolidone interactions (author's transl)]. Equilibrium dialyses and fluorescent spectroscopic measurements demonstrated that human serum albumin (HSA) affects the oxytetracycline (OTC)--polyvinyl-pyrrolidone K 90 (PVP) interactions. The preferential binding of OTC with HSA, as compared to PVP, was evidenced by means of a three-compartment model. The binding values increased with the increase of the portion of PVP in the PVP-HSA mixture. Superadditive OTC bindings occurred at a ratio of 1:1 (by weight). The addition of Mg2+ to PVP-containing solutions, at a molar ratio of 1:1, also produced an increase of the interactions of this antibiotic with PVP, whereby maximal OTC-PVP bindings of 50--60% were reached.", "PMID": 432255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1014", "title": "Availability of norethisterone acetate from combined oral contraceptive tablets.", "content": "The availability of norethisterone acetate in HCl (0.1 mol/l) from combined oral contraceptive tablets in the presence of certain proprietary preparations and adsorbent drugs which are used as antacids, intestinal adsorbents and for peptic ulcer was investigated. The percent dissolution of the hormone in the presence of these drugs was greatly reduced depending mainly on the nature of the adsorbent drugs.", "contents": "Availability of norethisterone acetate from combined oral contraceptive tablets. The availability of norethisterone acetate in HCl (0.1 mol/l) from combined oral contraceptive tablets in the presence of certain proprietary preparations and adsorbent drugs which are used as antacids, intestinal adsorbents and for peptic ulcer was investigated. The percent dissolution of the hormone in the presence of these drugs was greatly reduced depending mainly on the nature of the adsorbent drugs.", "PMID": 432256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1015", "title": "[Study of the texture of furosemid tablets. Part 2 (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors studied the alterations of the texture and of the physical properties of Furosemid tablets, which are prepared with the aid of hydroxypropylcellulose mucilage, that occur during storage. Klucel MF mucilage proved to be a very good binding agent. Though the film bursted on drying during storage, by which the pore volume of the tablets increased, the mechanical strength remained almost unchanged. The cause of this is the formation of solid bridges.", "contents": "[Study of the texture of furosemid tablets. Part 2 (author's transl)]. The authors studied the alterations of the texture and of the physical properties of Furosemid tablets, which are prepared with the aid of hydroxypropylcellulose mucilage, that occur during storage. Klucel MF mucilage proved to be a very good binding agent. Though the film bursted on drying during storage, by which the pore volume of the tablets increased, the mechanical strength remained almost unchanged. The cause of this is the formation of solid bridges.", "PMID": 432257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1016", "title": "Sources of Atomic and Nuclear Data for Biomedical Purposes.", "content": "Users of nuclear and atomic data for biomedical purposes often have difficulty in identifying the most up-to-date and appropriate sources of such data. The biomedical Subcommittee of the UK Nuclear Data Committee have prepared a list of recommended data sources available at the beginning of 1978 on radioactive decay schemes; neutron cross-sections and data for neutron activation analysis; excitation functions for the production of radionuclides by charged particles; W-values for neutron and electron dosimetry; X- and gamma-ray cross-sections; stopping powers and ranges for charged particles; and dose deposition by electrons and beta particles.", "contents": "Sources of Atomic and Nuclear Data for Biomedical Purposes. Users of nuclear and atomic data for biomedical purposes often have difficulty in identifying the most up-to-date and appropriate sources of such data. The biomedical Subcommittee of the UK Nuclear Data Committee have prepared a list of recommended data sources available at the beginning of 1978 on radioactive decay schemes; neutron cross-sections and data for neutron activation analysis; excitation functions for the production of radionuclides by charged particles; W-values for neutron and electron dosimetry; X- and gamma-ray cross-sections; stopping powers and ranges for charged particles; and dose deposition by electrons and beta particles.", "PMID": 432260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1017", "title": "A system for measuring total body calcium in man using the 40Ca(n, alpha)37 Ar reaction.", "content": "A technique to measure total body calcium using the 40Ca(n, alpha)37 Ar reaction has been developed. The technique is based on collecting 37Ar exhaled in the breath following a 10 mrad uniform total body irradiation by 14 MeV neutrons. The 37Ar in the exhaled breath is extracted by selective absorption and its radioactivity is measured inside a low-background proportional detector. The facilities developed include an activation facility providing a +/-2.7% activation uniformity, a closed circuit rebreathing and gas collection system, and a gas purification and counting system. The technique provides a precision of +/-2.4% as determined by repetitive measurements of human volunteers and has an accuracy for determination of total body calcium in grams of +/-5%.", "contents": "A system for measuring total body calcium in man using the 40Ca(n, alpha)37 Ar reaction. A technique to measure total body calcium using the 40Ca(n, alpha)37 Ar reaction has been developed. The technique is based on collecting 37Ar exhaled in the breath following a 10 mrad uniform total body irradiation by 14 MeV neutrons. The 37Ar in the exhaled breath is extracted by selective absorption and its radioactivity is measured inside a low-background proportional detector. The facilities developed include an activation facility providing a +/-2.7% activation uniformity, a closed circuit rebreathing and gas collection system, and a gas purification and counting system. The technique provides a precision of +/-2.4% as determined by repetitive measurements of human volunteers and has an accuracy for determination of total body calcium in grams of +/-5%.", "PMID": 432261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1018", "title": "An X-ray fluorescence technique for in vivo determination of lead concentration in a bone matrix.", "content": "We have previously reported the in vivo detection of lead in the skeleton of man by means of X-ray fluorescence analysis using a 740 MBq 57Co source for excitation and a 1 cm(3) Ge(Li) detector for registration of the Pb Kalpha and Kbeta radiation. The varying geometry, density and atomic composition of the tissues of interest (mainly fingers) introduce several problems in estimation of the true concentration of a given element. A two-component cylindrical finger phantom was therefore constructed from silica paraffin wax and animal bone ash. The diameter of the finger bone was estimated from X-ray examinations in two orthogonal projections. The bone mineral concentration was then estimated from the quotient of the number of coherent and Compton scattered primary photons. The lead concentration in the finger bones was then derived from a measurement on a finger phantom made of silica paraffin wax and bone ash with the same size and bone mineral concentration as the real bone. The minimum detectable lead concentration in a finger bone was 14 microgram g(-1) for 15 min measuring time. The lead concentration measured in workers from a metal industry was found to be in the range of 40-100 microgram g(-1).", "contents": "An X-ray fluorescence technique for in vivo determination of lead concentration in a bone matrix. We have previously reported the in vivo detection of lead in the skeleton of man by means of X-ray fluorescence analysis using a 740 MBq 57Co source for excitation and a 1 cm(3) Ge(Li) detector for registration of the Pb Kalpha and Kbeta radiation. The varying geometry, density and atomic composition of the tissues of interest (mainly fingers) introduce several problems in estimation of the true concentration of a given element. A two-component cylindrical finger phantom was therefore constructed from silica paraffin wax and animal bone ash. The diameter of the finger bone was estimated from X-ray examinations in two orthogonal projections. The bone mineral concentration was then estimated from the quotient of the number of coherent and Compton scattered primary photons. The lead concentration in the finger bones was then derived from a measurement on a finger phantom made of silica paraffin wax and bone ash with the same size and bone mineral concentration as the real bone. The minimum detectable lead concentration in a finger bone was 14 microgram g(-1) for 15 min measuring time. The lead concentration measured in workers from a metal industry was found to be in the range of 40-100 microgram g(-1).", "PMID": 432262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1019", "title": "Transfer functions for describing ultrasound system performance.", "content": "A practical method of assessing ultrasonic A-scan pulse-echo scanner performance is described, which relies upon the identification and quantitation of an overall system transfer function. The mapping of reflecting elements into an image is then described by this transfer function, and indices of system performance, and particularly resolution and range accuracy, are developed in terms of the shape of the transfer function. Some advantages of this method compared to more conventional methods of assessing scanner performance are discussed.", "contents": "Transfer functions for describing ultrasound system performance. A practical method of assessing ultrasonic A-scan pulse-echo scanner performance is described, which relies upon the identification and quantitation of an overall system transfer function. The mapping of reflecting elements into an image is then described by this transfer function, and indices of system performance, and particularly resolution and range accuracy, are developed in terms of the shape of the transfer function. Some advantages of this method compared to more conventional methods of assessing scanner performance are discussed.", "PMID": 432263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1020", "title": "Calculations of charged-particle recoils, slowing-down spectra, LET and event-size distributions for fast neutrons and comparisons with measurements.", "content": "A rapid system has been developed for computing charged-particle distributions generated in tissue by any neutron spectra less than 4 MeV. Oxygen and carbon recoils are derived form R-matrix theory, and hydrogen recoils are obtained from cross-section evaluation. Application to two quite different fission-neutron spectra demonstrates the flexibility of this method for providing spectral details of the different types of charged-particle recoils. Comparisons are made between calculations and measurements of event-size distributions for a sphere of tissue 1 micrometer in diameter irradiated by these two neutron spectra. LET distributions have been calculated from computed charged-particle recoils and also derived from measurements using the conventional approximation that all charged particles traverse the chamber. The limitations of the approximation for these neutron spectra are discussed.", "contents": "Calculations of charged-particle recoils, slowing-down spectra, LET and event-size distributions for fast neutrons and comparisons with measurements. A rapid system has been developed for computing charged-particle distributions generated in tissue by any neutron spectra less than 4 MeV. Oxygen and carbon recoils are derived form R-matrix theory, and hydrogen recoils are obtained from cross-section evaluation. Application to two quite different fission-neutron spectra demonstrates the flexibility of this method for providing spectral details of the different types of charged-particle recoils. Comparisons are made between calculations and measurements of event-size distributions for a sphere of tissue 1 micrometer in diameter irradiated by these two neutron spectra. LET distributions have been calculated from computed charged-particle recoils and also derived from measurements using the conventional approximation that all charged particles traverse the chamber. The limitations of the approximation for these neutron spectra are discussed.", "PMID": 432267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1021", "title": "On Ce, Clambda, and the effective wall material of a Baldwin-Farmer chamber.", "content": "An expression relating the constant A to the characteristics of an ionisation chamber is developed. This constant, used to obtain the mass ionisation from the instrument reading, appears in expressions for Ce and Clambda, and is a function of the chamber wall material. Measurements with a Baldwin-Farmer chamber are described, and indicate that the effective wall material is more nearly equivalent to Lucite than to air in 60Co gamma radiation. The resulting value of A is nearly 1.5% lower than the figure commonly used.", "contents": "On Ce, Clambda, and the effective wall material of a Baldwin-Farmer chamber. An expression relating the constant A to the characteristics of an ionisation chamber is developed. This constant, used to obtain the mass ionisation from the instrument reading, appears in expressions for Ce and Clambda, and is a function of the chamber wall material. Measurements with a Baldwin-Farmer chamber are described, and indicate that the effective wall material is more nearly equivalent to Lucite than to air in 60Co gamma radiation. The resulting value of A is nearly 1.5% lower than the figure commonly used.", "PMID": 432271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1022", "title": "Cavity ionisation theory applied to the design of a maximum permissible fluence instrument.", "content": "The maximun permissible fluence is proposed as a practical concept in radiological monitoring of photon fields. It is virtually this concept that is used for monitoring neutron fields. The practicability of designing instruments with a required response function over a large energy range is examined. Cavity isonisation theory is employed to examine the effect of gas filling, wall material, chamber size and wall thickness on response function and the optimum parameters for the design of an ionisation chamber are thus identified. An experimental chamber of parameters close to the optimum has been constructed and its response compared with the response calculated from cavity ionisation theory. It is concluded that it is possible to design an instrument, the energy response of which follows the maximum permissible fluence. The approach and data in this paper will facilitate any necessary design changes which would arise in the event of national regulation being modified.", "contents": "Cavity ionisation theory applied to the design of a maximum permissible fluence instrument. The maximun permissible fluence is proposed as a practical concept in radiological monitoring of photon fields. It is virtually this concept that is used for monitoring neutron fields. The practicability of designing instruments with a required response function over a large energy range is examined. Cavity isonisation theory is employed to examine the effect of gas filling, wall material, chamber size and wall thickness on response function and the optimum parameters for the design of an ionisation chamber are thus identified. An experimental chamber of parameters close to the optimum has been constructed and its response compared with the response calculated from cavity ionisation theory. It is concluded that it is possible to design an instrument, the energy response of which follows the maximum permissible fluence. The approach and data in this paper will facilitate any necessary design changes which would arise in the event of national regulation being modified.", "PMID": 432272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1023", "title": "Neutron sensitivity of a carbon-walled CO2-filled ionisation chamber.", "content": "In an earlier publication, an expression was derived for the sensitivity of carbon walled, carbon dioxide-filled ionisation chamber, for low-energy neutrons. This expression has been extended to allow its use for high-energy neutrons, and has been used to make detailed calculations for a particular ionisation chamber irradiated with either 15 MeV or 5.5 MeV neutrons. These results of these calculations are compared with experimental values and, within the stated limits, reasonable agreement is obtained.", "contents": "Neutron sensitivity of a carbon-walled CO2-filled ionisation chamber. In an earlier publication, an expression was derived for the sensitivity of carbon walled, carbon dioxide-filled ionisation chamber, for low-energy neutrons. This expression has been extended to allow its use for high-energy neutrons, and has been used to make detailed calculations for a particular ionisation chamber irradiated with either 15 MeV or 5.5 MeV neutrons. These results of these calculations are compared with experimental values and, within the stated limits, reasonable agreement is obtained.", "PMID": 432273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1024", "title": "Increased lyoluminescence response of mannose on storage.", "content": "The effect of storage on the lyoluminescence response of mannose was investigated and the dependence of the change in response on absorbed dose determined. It was found that for doses greater than the saturation value, there was an enhancement of response on storage. The hypothesis that the local concentration of oxygen near the free radical sites in the irradiated mannose is a determining factor in lyoluminescence response is postulated and discussed.", "contents": "Increased lyoluminescence response of mannose on storage. The effect of storage on the lyoluminescence response of mannose was investigated and the dependence of the change in response on absorbed dose determined. It was found that for doses greater than the saturation value, there was an enhancement of response on storage. The hypothesis that the local concentration of oxygen near the free radical sites in the irradiated mannose is a determining factor in lyoluminescence response is postulated and discussed.", "PMID": 432274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1025", "title": "The low- and high-temperature response of lithium fluoride dosemeters to X-rays.", "content": "The energy response of lithium fluoride (LiF) thermoluminescent dosemeters has been determined at two temperatures. Glow peaks 3,4, and 5 are measured at 240 degrees C and peaks 6 and 7 at 300 degrees C. In studying the response to X-radiation it was observed that the response of LiF chips to photons below 150 keV is greater, relative to cobalt-60, than that expected from the energy absorbed in the material. There is an enhancement of 10% at 240 degrees C and of about 100% at 300 degrees c for the same energy absorption. This effect is particularly important where precise measurement of X-ray dose is required and corrections of from 10 to 15% above the correction from rads in LiF to rads in water will be necessary depending upon the maximum read-out temperature. Qualitatively the enhancement may be explained in terms of the higher mean rate of linear energy transfer at low photon energies relative to cobalt-60 gamma rays.", "contents": "The low- and high-temperature response of lithium fluoride dosemeters to X-rays. The energy response of lithium fluoride (LiF) thermoluminescent dosemeters has been determined at two temperatures. Glow peaks 3,4, and 5 are measured at 240 degrees C and peaks 6 and 7 at 300 degrees C. In studying the response to X-radiation it was observed that the response of LiF chips to photons below 150 keV is greater, relative to cobalt-60, than that expected from the energy absorbed in the material. There is an enhancement of 10% at 240 degrees C and of about 100% at 300 degrees c for the same energy absorption. This effect is particularly important where precise measurement of X-ray dose is required and corrections of from 10 to 15% above the correction from rads in LiF to rads in water will be necessary depending upon the maximum read-out temperature. Qualitatively the enhancement may be explained in terms of the higher mean rate of linear energy transfer at low photon energies relative to cobalt-60 gamma rays.", "PMID": 432275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1026", "title": "Correction for beam hardening in computed tomography.", "content": "We investigate how one can estimate from the total attenuation, p, of a polyenergetic X-ray beam what the total attenuation, m, of a monoenergetic beam would have been along the same ray. We find that for beams with typical diagnostic X-ray spectra passing through the human body one can find a simple function f such that f(p) is a sufficiently close estimate of m to allow good reconstructions. We also find that m cannot be accurately estimated from p based on the assumption that the human body consists of water alone. Our results are demonstrated by reconstructions of a mathematical model of a cross-section of the human thorax. This article is self-contained and includes in its Appendices a detailed discussion of the mathematical nature of the problem of bean hardening in computed tomography.", "contents": "Correction for beam hardening in computed tomography. We investigate how one can estimate from the total attenuation, p, of a polyenergetic X-ray beam what the total attenuation, m, of a monoenergetic beam would have been along the same ray. We find that for beams with typical diagnostic X-ray spectra passing through the human body one can find a simple function f such that f(p) is a sufficiently close estimate of m to allow good reconstructions. We also find that m cannot be accurately estimated from p based on the assumption that the human body consists of water alone. Our results are demonstrated by reconstructions of a mathematical model of a cross-section of the human thorax. This article is self-contained and includes in its Appendices a detailed discussion of the mathematical nature of the problem of bean hardening in computed tomography.", "PMID": 432276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1027", "title": "Physical therapists' knowledge of sexuality of adults with spinal cord injury.", "content": "Helping the adult with spinal cord injury to adjust to sexual limitations is an important and neglected part of his rehabilitation. Health professionals of all fields have been perceived to be deficient in their knowledge of the sexuality of the adult with spinal cord injury. A test with 40 statements reflecting myths, misconceptions, and truths about the effect of spinal cord injury on sexual function was administered to 30 physical therapists responsible for rehabilitating these adults. At least 28 of the 40 items were missed by 10 percent or more of the therapists. Experience and participation in educational programs appeared to contribute to the respondents' knowledge, as reflected by the test, but only experience was a statistically significant variable.", "contents": "Physical therapists' knowledge of sexuality of adults with spinal cord injury. Helping the adult with spinal cord injury to adjust to sexual limitations is an important and neglected part of his rehabilitation. Health professionals of all fields have been perceived to be deficient in their knowledge of the sexuality of the adult with spinal cord injury. A test with 40 statements reflecting myths, misconceptions, and truths about the effect of spinal cord injury on sexual function was administered to 30 physical therapists responsible for rehabilitating these adults. At least 28 of the 40 items were missed by 10 percent or more of the therapists. Experience and participation in educational programs appeared to contribute to the respondents' knowledge, as reflected by the test, but only experience was a statistically significant variable.", "PMID": 432277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1028", "title": "Continuing education: an attitudinal survey of physical therapists.", "content": "A descriptive study of 903 physical therapists located primarily in southeastern United States was undertaken to determine their attitudes toward continuing education and the types of course offerings they desired. A majority of physical therapists kept themselves up-to-date in professional practice, mainly through discussion with colleagues, study groups, and inservice training sessions. The continuing education courses they preferred were comparatively recent topics in physical therapy education--such as musculoskeletal assessment and mobilization--specific neurophysiological approaches to treatment of adults and children, and administration. The study also revealed the preferred schedule, length, type, and cost of continuing education courses, as well as the amount of advance notice preferred and willingness to complete preassigned readings. The main problem that respondents had in participating in continuing education was that courses did not fit into their schedules. A majority of respondents favored mandatory continuing education for relicensure.", "contents": "Continuing education: an attitudinal survey of physical therapists. A descriptive study of 903 physical therapists located primarily in southeastern United States was undertaken to determine their attitudes toward continuing education and the types of course offerings they desired. A majority of physical therapists kept themselves up-to-date in professional practice, mainly through discussion with colleagues, study groups, and inservice training sessions. The continuing education courses they preferred were comparatively recent topics in physical therapy education--such as musculoskeletal assessment and mobilization--specific neurophysiological approaches to treatment of adults and children, and administration. The study also revealed the preferred schedule, length, type, and cost of continuing education courses, as well as the amount of advance notice preferred and willingness to complete preassigned readings. The main problem that respondents had in participating in continuing education was that courses did not fit into their schedules. A majority of respondents favored mandatory continuing education for relicensure.", "PMID": 432278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1029", "title": "Systematic curricular development in physical therapy.", "content": "A three-year, federally funded competency-based education project has been completed at The Ohio State University, School of Allied Medical Professions. Six allied health divisions cooperated in the project: Physical Therapy, Medical Communications, Medical Dietetics, Medical Record Administration, Medical Technology, and Radiologic Technology. The purpose of the project was to have the six ongoing programs adapt an established, systematic process to plan for and develop curricular revisions. Professional roles and competencies were delineated as a basis for establishing performance criteria and instructional strategies. The materials that the Division of Physical Therapy developed and the processes that were used in conjunction with this project are described.", "contents": "Systematic curricular development in physical therapy. A three-year, federally funded competency-based education project has been completed at The Ohio State University, School of Allied Medical Professions. Six allied health divisions cooperated in the project: Physical Therapy, Medical Communications, Medical Dietetics, Medical Record Administration, Medical Technology, and Radiologic Technology. The purpose of the project was to have the six ongoing programs adapt an established, systematic process to plan for and develop curricular revisions. Professional roles and competencies were delineated as a basis for establishing performance criteria and instructional strategies. The materials that the Division of Physical Therapy developed and the processes that were used in conjunction with this project are described.", "PMID": 432279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1030", "title": "Foot-pounds of torque of the normal knee and the rehabilitated postmeniscectomy knee.", "content": "Foot-pounds of torque of the knee flexors and knee extensors of eight rehabilitated patients who had had meniscectomies were obtained isometrically and at 60 and 210 degrees per second by use of an isokinetic apparatus. Our purpose was to test the null hypothesis that no significant difference in torque would be manifested between the rehabilitated postmeniscectomy knee and the normal knee. Mean torque developed by the rehabilitated postoperative knee was 10 to 12 percent less than the mean torque developed by the normal knee. We found a significant difference between means of torque of the normal knee and the rehabilitated knee for isometric flexion, rapid dynamic flexion, and rapid dynamic extension. Means of torque of knee extension for the three types of contraction for both knees of the subjects demonstrated similar patterns in which torque developed isometrically was greater than torque developed by slow dynamic tension, which in turn was greater than torque developed by rapid dynamic contraction. Means of torque of knee flexion for the three types of contraction for both knees of the subjects created patterns in which torque developed isometrically was essentially equal to torque developed by slow dynamic tension, and both these measurements exceeded torque developed by rapid dynamic contractions. Overall, the results suggest that physical therapists need to use rehabilitative techniques that promote muscular power and muscular endurance in addition to muscular strength and that more attention needs to be directed to the rehabilitation of knee flexors.", "contents": "Foot-pounds of torque of the normal knee and the rehabilitated postmeniscectomy knee. Foot-pounds of torque of the knee flexors and knee extensors of eight rehabilitated patients who had had meniscectomies were obtained isometrically and at 60 and 210 degrees per second by use of an isokinetic apparatus. Our purpose was to test the null hypothesis that no significant difference in torque would be manifested between the rehabilitated postmeniscectomy knee and the normal knee. Mean torque developed by the rehabilitated postoperative knee was 10 to 12 percent less than the mean torque developed by the normal knee. We found a significant difference between means of torque of the normal knee and the rehabilitated knee for isometric flexion, rapid dynamic flexion, and rapid dynamic extension. Means of torque of knee extension for the three types of contraction for both knees of the subjects demonstrated similar patterns in which torque developed isometrically was greater than torque developed by slow dynamic tension, which in turn was greater than torque developed by rapid dynamic contraction. Means of torque of knee flexion for the three types of contraction for both knees of the subjects created patterns in which torque developed isometrically was essentially equal to torque developed by slow dynamic tension, and both these measurements exceeded torque developed by rapid dynamic contractions. Overall, the results suggest that physical therapists need to use rehabilitative techniques that promote muscular power and muscular endurance in addition to muscular strength and that more attention needs to be directed to the rehabilitation of knee flexors.", "PMID": 432280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1031", "title": "[Intra-femoral artery injections in a hospital angiology clinic].", "content": "Intra-arterial injections of vasodilators are due to Henri Reboul. After a recent disfavor, the modern equipment together with a simple and detailed technique make it possible to easily do repeated injections. The only accidents are hematomas due to insufficient compression. Use of anticoagulants is the main counter-indication. Lidocain hydrochloride or pure scylocain 1% are the safest drugs. The antispasmodic papaverine, various vasodilators, antibiotics and heparin can be added. In out patient clinics, the rate of injections is one to three per week for a series of 10 injections at the most. Stage II arteritis is the ideal situation and successes are also found in stages III and IV. During the first visit for a acute phlebitis intra-arterial injection of scylocain with 100 mg. heparin makes it possible to start the necessary therapy with anticoagulants. The simple post-phlebitis venous edema seems a case in which the technique should be used.", "contents": "[Intra-femoral artery injections in a hospital angiology clinic]. Intra-arterial injections of vasodilators are due to Henri Reboul. After a recent disfavor, the modern equipment together with a simple and detailed technique make it possible to easily do repeated injections. The only accidents are hematomas due to insufficient compression. Use of anticoagulants is the main counter-indication. Lidocain hydrochloride or pure scylocain 1% are the safest drugs. The antispasmodic papaverine, various vasodilators, antibiotics and heparin can be added. In out patient clinics, the rate of injections is one to three per week for a series of 10 injections at the most. Stage II arteritis is the ideal situation and successes are also found in stages III and IV. During the first visit for a acute phlebitis intra-arterial injection of scylocain with 100 mg. heparin makes it possible to start the necessary therapy with anticoagulants. The simple post-phlebitis venous edema seems a case in which the technique should be used.", "PMID": 432289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1032", "title": "[Do indications still exist for intra-arterial infiltrations in vascular pathology?].", "content": "Intra-arterial infiltrations are a useful therapeutic measure in various vascular diseases where it is important to obtain a lasting and rapid peripheral vasodilatation. In arteritis of the lower limbs, it is paradoxical to match infiltration against surgery. None of these two therapeutic measures can cure completely. Depending on the circumstances, infiltrations can be used at all the stages of arteritis, but the difficulties of applying them limit their use. In certain phlebitis mainly with arterial manifestations, infiltrations can relieve immediately the spasm. In trophic disorders of arterial or venous origin the help the formation of scars. Infiltrations should be used, however, only under maximal technical conditions, which render them harmless.", "contents": "[Do indications still exist for intra-arterial infiltrations in vascular pathology?]. Intra-arterial infiltrations are a useful therapeutic measure in various vascular diseases where it is important to obtain a lasting and rapid peripheral vasodilatation. In arteritis of the lower limbs, it is paradoxical to match infiltration against surgery. None of these two therapeutic measures can cure completely. Depending on the circumstances, infiltrations can be used at all the stages of arteritis, but the difficulties of applying them limit their use. In certain phlebitis mainly with arterial manifestations, infiltrations can relieve immediately the spasm. In trophic disorders of arterial or venous origin the help the formation of scars. Infiltrations should be used, however, only under maximal technical conditions, which render them harmless.", "PMID": 432290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1033", "title": "[Use of the Doppler for intrafemoral injection in arteritis].", "content": "The discovery of a femoral artery that is clinically non palpable can be made using the Doppler. It is thus possible to use a direct intra-arterial treatment. This is what was done by the authors, who thereby divided the patients into two groups: the first, 22, with non palpable femoral arteries; the second, 20, with palpable femoral arteries. They obtained good results with intermittent claudications, with increase of the walking perimeter, and among the trophic problems they noted, an increase of the walking perimeter, and among the trophic problems they noted, an increase in arterial pressure on the limbs in question, a phenomenon of which they discuss the pathogenic causes.", "contents": "[Use of the Doppler for intrafemoral injection in arteritis]. The discovery of a femoral artery that is clinically non palpable can be made using the Doppler. It is thus possible to use a direct intra-arterial treatment. This is what was done by the authors, who thereby divided the patients into two groups: the first, 22, with non palpable femoral arteries; the second, 20, with palpable femoral arteries. They obtained good results with intermittent claudications, with increase of the walking perimeter, and among the trophic problems they noted, an increase of the walking perimeter, and among the trophic problems they noted, an increase in arterial pressure on the limbs in question, a phenomenon of which they discuss the pathogenic causes.", "PMID": 432292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1034", "title": "[Long-term results of the treatment of arteritis with intra-arterial injections using Reboul's technique].", "content": "We have made a non-selective search for patients undergoing treatment for more than five years for an arterial deficiency of the lower limbs. Most of the patients studied suffered from intermittent claudications for which surgical treatment was impossible (distal lesions, diabetes, coronaritis) or had failed (sympathectomy, recurrences). Faced with the inefficiency of vasodilators, and in addition to strict medical treatment of the risks factors of arterio-sclerosis disease (tobacco, obesity, hypercholesterol, sedentary habits), we treated these patients using intra-arterial injections according to the method of Reboul. Our patients generally received one injection per week of xylocaine-priscol-pronestyl. Once an improvement appeared, these injections were spaced out so as to become semi-annual. We grouped 67 patients suffering from intermittent claudications and 5 patients suffering from arteritis ulcers. We studied the results obtained from this so-called palliative treatment (the claudication going from an average 201 meters to 3,395 meters after five years and cure of the ulcers).", "contents": "[Long-term results of the treatment of arteritis with intra-arterial injections using Reboul's technique]. We have made a non-selective search for patients undergoing treatment for more than five years for an arterial deficiency of the lower limbs. Most of the patients studied suffered from intermittent claudications for which surgical treatment was impossible (distal lesions, diabetes, coronaritis) or had failed (sympathectomy, recurrences). Faced with the inefficiency of vasodilators, and in addition to strict medical treatment of the risks factors of arterio-sclerosis disease (tobacco, obesity, hypercholesterol, sedentary habits), we treated these patients using intra-arterial injections according to the method of Reboul. Our patients generally received one injection per week of xylocaine-priscol-pronestyl. Once an improvement appeared, these injections were spaced out so as to become semi-annual. We grouped 67 patients suffering from intermittent claudications and 5 patients suffering from arteritis ulcers. We studied the results obtained from this so-called palliative treatment (the claudication going from an average 201 meters to 3,395 meters after five years and cure of the ulcers).", "PMID": 432291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1035", "title": "[Defibrination treatment of progressive scleroderma].", "content": "The authors report about the defibrination therapy with the enzyme pr\u00e9paration Arwin in sclerodermia progressiva. From 16 patients with sclerodermia progressiva, 9 patients showed a clinically good result. Three patients showed a certain improvement, but objectively, the results are doubtful. Four of the patients did not react to the therapy clinically nor in the applied tests. We have tried to prove the effect of the enzyme preparation Arwin in patients with sclerodermia progressiva with venous occlusion plethysmography and by isotope Technetium 99 with the use of a Gamma-camera. The results will be reported.", "contents": "[Defibrination treatment of progressive scleroderma]. The authors report about the defibrination therapy with the enzyme pr\u00e9paration Arwin in sclerodermia progressiva. From 16 patients with sclerodermia progressiva, 9 patients showed a clinically good result. Three patients showed a certain improvement, but objectively, the results are doubtful. Four of the patients did not react to the therapy clinically nor in the applied tests. We have tried to prove the effect of the enzyme preparation Arwin in patients with sclerodermia progressiva with venous occlusion plethysmography and by isotope Technetium 99 with the use of a Gamma-camera. The results will be reported.", "PMID": 432294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1036", "title": "[Post-phlebitis varicose veins: pathogenetic role and treatment principles].", "content": "Many clinical types can be distinguished among the post-phlebitis varicose veins : Substitution varicose veins : pre and supra pubic varicose veins that should be left intact-superficial post-phlebitis venous insufficiency which is characterized by a saphenous insufficiency that is not significantly different as a whole in its physiopathology from the essential saphenous insufficiency, and requires therefore the same forms of therapy. Superficial venous insufficiency combined with an insufficiency of communicating veins of the leg are quite frequent in post-phlebitis situations and can necessitate a special procedure on the insufficient communicating veins. Finally an isolated insufficiency of the communicating veins.", "contents": "[Post-phlebitis varicose veins: pathogenetic role and treatment principles]. Many clinical types can be distinguished among the post-phlebitis varicose veins : Substitution varicose veins : pre and supra pubic varicose veins that should be left intact-superficial post-phlebitis venous insufficiency which is characterized by a saphenous insufficiency that is not significantly different as a whole in its physiopathology from the essential saphenous insufficiency, and requires therefore the same forms of therapy. Superficial venous insufficiency combined with an insufficiency of communicating veins of the leg are quite frequent in post-phlebitis situations and can necessitate a special procedure on the insufficient communicating veins. Finally an isolated insufficiency of the communicating veins.", "PMID": 432297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1037", "title": "Replantation of amputated distal phalangeal parts of fingers without vascular anastomoses, using subcutaneous pockets.", "content": "Subcutaneous \"pocketing\" is proposed as a simple and convenient method to nourish a denuded, replanted end of a finger, when the amputation is between the lunule and the DIP joint. The investigation of a laboratory model is presented, and our initial clinical experience is reported.", "contents": "Replantation of amputated distal phalangeal parts of fingers without vascular anastomoses, using subcutaneous pockets. Subcutaneous \"pocketing\" is proposed as a simple and convenient method to nourish a denuded, replanted end of a finger, when the amputation is between the lunule and the DIP joint. The investigation of a laboratory model is presented, and our initial clinical experience is reported.", "PMID": 432310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1038", "title": "Dupuytren's contractures in a black patient.", "content": "We report a case of bilateral Dupuytren's contracture occurring in a black patient, apparently the sixth reported occurrence.", "contents": "Dupuytren's contractures in a black patient. We report a case of bilateral Dupuytren's contracture occurring in a black patient, apparently the sixth reported occurrence.", "PMID": 432317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1039", "title": "Easy orientation of the cut ends for nerve suture.", "content": "A technique for orienting cut nerve ends for suturing is presented. A mirror is used to reflect one end, making its image identical to that of the other end--so that proper orientation is greatly facilitated.", "contents": "Easy orientation of the cut ends for nerve suture. A technique for orienting cut nerve ends for suturing is presented. A mirror is used to reflect one end, making its image identical to that of the other end--so that proper orientation is greatly facilitated.", "PMID": 432320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1040", "title": "Indentation tonometry of breasts.", "content": "We present an indentation tonometer for use in measuring the softness or firmness of human, female breasts. It provides objective measurements which are consistently reproducible.", "contents": "Indentation tonometry of breasts. We present an indentation tonometer for use in measuring the softness or firmness of human, female breasts. It provides objective measurements which are consistently reproducible.", "PMID": 432321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1041", "title": "Review of 1,000 major facial fractures and associated injuries.", "content": "The records of 1,020 major facial fractures were reviewed, and it was found that the occurrence of life-threatening associated injuries was highly predictable on the basis of the pattern of facial fractures and the circumstances of the injury. Certain groups of patients have a high probability of associated serious injuries of the central nervous system, the trunk, or the extremities. Probably these patients should be primarily under the care of a surgeon who is capable of the diagnosis and emergency therapy of these associated injuries, as well as the facial injuries, so that appropriate priorities can be established and put in effect.", "contents": "Review of 1,000 major facial fractures and associated injuries. The records of 1,020 major facial fractures were reviewed, and it was found that the occurrence of life-threatening associated injuries was highly predictable on the basis of the pattern of facial fractures and the circumstances of the injury. Certain groups of patients have a high probability of associated serious injuries of the central nervous system, the trunk, or the extremities. Probably these patients should be primarily under the care of a surgeon who is capable of the diagnosis and emergency therapy of these associated injuries, as well as the facial injuries, so that appropriate priorities can be established and put in effect.", "PMID": 432322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1042", "title": "Major electrocardiographic changes during chemical face peeling.", "content": "In phenol face peels, when 50 percent or more of the face was treated in less than 30 minutes, there was a high incidence of cardiac arrhythmias. When the same was done during a period of 60 minutes or more, arrhythmia did not occur. Other factors studied in this group of 43 patients, including the preoperative electrocardiograms, did not correlate with the development of arrhythmias. We believe that patients undergoing phenol face peels should have cardiac monitoring, and appropriate cardiopulmonary resuscitative capabilities should be available.", "contents": "Major electrocardiographic changes during chemical face peeling. In phenol face peels, when 50 percent or more of the face was treated in less than 30 minutes, there was a high incidence of cardiac arrhythmias. When the same was done during a period of 60 minutes or more, arrhythmia did not occur. Other factors studied in this group of 43 patients, including the preoperative electrocardiograms, did not correlate with the development of arrhythmias. We believe that patients undergoing phenol face peels should have cardiac monitoring, and appropriate cardiopulmonary resuscitative capabilities should be available.", "PMID": 432323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1043", "title": "The crocodile tear syndrome.", "content": "Gusto-lacrimation, or \"crocodile tear syndrome,\" is a rare complication, with 95 cases reported in the literature. Two patients are presented here, one after a facial fracture which apparently extended into the temporal bone proximal to the optic ganglion, and one after a Bell's palsy. The mechanism appears to be a misdirection of regenerating gustatory fibers destined for the salivary glands, so that they become secretory fibers to the lacrimal gland and cause homolateral tearing while the patient is eating. A simple procedure, involving subtotal resection of the palpebral lobe of the involved lacrimal gland, proved to be an effective corrective measure in these cases. Although it was not done in these cases, it would perhaps be advisable to do a Schirmer's test to assist in determining the amount of gland to be removed.", "contents": "The crocodile tear syndrome. Gusto-lacrimation, or \"crocodile tear syndrome,\" is a rare complication, with 95 cases reported in the literature. Two patients are presented here, one after a facial fracture which apparently extended into the temporal bone proximal to the optic ganglion, and one after a Bell's palsy. The mechanism appears to be a misdirection of regenerating gustatory fibers destined for the salivary glands, so that they become secretory fibers to the lacrimal gland and cause homolateral tearing while the patient is eating. A simple procedure, involving subtotal resection of the palpebral lobe of the involved lacrimal gland, proved to be an effective corrective measure in these cases. Although it was not done in these cases, it would perhaps be advisable to do a Schirmer's test to assist in determining the amount of gland to be removed.", "PMID": 432324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1044", "title": "Hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis for reinnervation of the paralyzed face.", "content": "The hypoglossal-facial nerve crossover is a valuable surgical procedure for the treatment of certain types of facial paralysis. It is most effective when used as an integral part of a primary ablative operation for the treatment of cancer in this region. In the treatment of long-standing facial paralysis, its application requires an intact peripheral facial nerve system and some functioning mimetic muscles with an obliterated proximal facial nerve segment. It is recognized that other procedures are available for repair in patients who meet essentially these same criteria. The disadvantages are minimal intraoral crippling, mass movements of the face and, in some instances, hypertonia of the face. The advantages are improved facial tone, protection of the eye, intentional facial movements controlled by the tongue, and movements associated with physiological functions of the tongue.", "contents": "Hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis for reinnervation of the paralyzed face. The hypoglossal-facial nerve crossover is a valuable surgical procedure for the treatment of certain types of facial paralysis. It is most effective when used as an integral part of a primary ablative operation for the treatment of cancer in this region. In the treatment of long-standing facial paralysis, its application requires an intact peripheral facial nerve system and some functioning mimetic muscles with an obliterated proximal facial nerve segment. It is recognized that other procedures are available for repair in patients who meet essentially these same criteria. The disadvantages are minimal intraoral crippling, mass movements of the face and, in some instances, hypertonia of the face. The advantages are improved facial tone, protection of the eye, intentional facial movements controlled by the tongue, and movements associated with physiological functions of the tongue.", "PMID": 432325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1045", "title": "Factors influencing final range of motion in the fingers after fractures of the hand.", "content": "We evaluated 123 patients in which we treated 150 fractured fingers primarily. Sixty-seven percent of these fractured fingers required open reduction with internal fixation; the remainder had closed reduction with internal or external fixation, or immediate arthrodeses. Active and passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises were usually begun within 3 days after injury. The active and passive ROM of all joints of each finger in the involved hand were measured at regular intervals until no further change in ROM occurred. An associated crush injury, a flexor or extensor tendon injury, or a skin loss (each) caused a significantly more frequent decrease in the final ROM of the unfractured fingers of the same hand. An associated joint injury, more than one fracture per finger, a crush injury, a flexor or extensor tendon injury, or a skin loss (each) caused a significant decrease in the ROM of the fractured fingers. After treatment of a simple fracture, the ROM in both the fractured and the unfractured fingers was essentially normal.", "contents": "Factors influencing final range of motion in the fingers after fractures of the hand. We evaluated 123 patients in which we treated 150 fractured fingers primarily. Sixty-seven percent of these fractured fingers required open reduction with internal fixation; the remainder had closed reduction with internal or external fixation, or immediate arthrodeses. Active and passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises were usually begun within 3 days after injury. The active and passive ROM of all joints of each finger in the involved hand were measured at regular intervals until no further change in ROM occurred. An associated crush injury, a flexor or extensor tendon injury, or a skin loss (each) caused a significantly more frequent decrease in the final ROM of the unfractured fingers of the same hand. An associated joint injury, more than one fracture per finger, a crush injury, a flexor or extensor tendon injury, or a skin loss (each) caused a significant decrease in the ROM of the fractured fingers. After treatment of a simple fracture, the ROM in both the fractured and the unfractured fingers was essentially normal.", "PMID": 432326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1046", "title": "The carpal boss: surgical treatment and etiological considerations.", "content": "We report on 30 symptomatic cases of carpal boss which were treated surgically. The condition represents a highly localized degenerative arthritis at the base of the middle metacarpal, and is seen primarily in relatively young patients. Symptomatic relief was obtained by excision of degenerated tissue in all these patients.", "contents": "The carpal boss: surgical treatment and etiological considerations. We report on 30 symptomatic cases of carpal boss which were treated surgically. The condition represents a highly localized degenerative arthritis at the base of the middle metacarpal, and is seen primarily in relatively young patients. Symptomatic relief was obtained by excision of degenerated tissue in all these patients.", "PMID": 432327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1047", "title": "Applanation tonometry of breasts.", "content": "We present a simple method for measuring intramammary pressure. We believe this technique could be helpful in evaluating the firmness of breasts following the implantation of prostheses, and capsulotomies done for this reason.", "contents": "Applanation tonometry of breasts. We present a simple method for measuring intramammary pressure. We believe this technique could be helpful in evaluating the firmness of breasts following the implantation of prostheses, and capsulotomies done for this reason.", "PMID": 432328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1048", "title": "Successful replantation of an amputated leg in a child.", "content": "We report the successful replantation of an amputated leg in a 4-year-old boy. Four years after the replantation, skeletal growth and nerve regeneration were good and he had an excellent recovery of function and appearance. This result was undoubtedly enhanced by his youth, the ideal conditions for nerve repair, and the good preservation of the amputated leg in ice water. Replantation of an amputated lower extermity should be tried if the conditions mentioned above are fulfilled.", "contents": "Successful replantation of an amputated leg in a child. We report the successful replantation of an amputated leg in a 4-year-old boy. Four years after the replantation, skeletal growth and nerve regeneration were good and he had an excellent recovery of function and appearance. This result was undoubtedly enhanced by his youth, the ideal conditions for nerve repair, and the good preservation of the amputated leg in ice water. Replantation of an amputated lower extermity should be tried if the conditions mentioned above are fulfilled.", "PMID": 432329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1049", "title": "Bone regeneration within a coralline hydroxyapatite implant.", "content": "The hypothesis that incomplete resorption of osteons in an autogenous cortical bone graft may limit its replacement by new bone regeneration was explored by implanting a hydroxyapatite replica of a coral skeletal structure into bone gaps. This implant contained channels and interconnections similar to those in osteon-evacuated bone grafts. In 6 implanted mandibular defects in dogs, two of which were examined at two, 4, and 6 months, 11 percent, 46 percent, and 88 percent of the implant areas were filled with regenerated bone. The regenerated bone was a woven type at two months, but changed to a lamellar type by 6 months. In two implanted defects examined at 12 months, biodegradation of 29 percent of the implant had occurred. The bone regeneration was physiological, the implant was biocompatible, and the biodegradation began after the bone had regenerated.", "contents": "Bone regeneration within a coralline hydroxyapatite implant. The hypothesis that incomplete resorption of osteons in an autogenous cortical bone graft may limit its replacement by new bone regeneration was explored by implanting a hydroxyapatite replica of a coral skeletal structure into bone gaps. This implant contained channels and interconnections similar to those in osteon-evacuated bone grafts. In 6 implanted mandibular defects in dogs, two of which were examined at two, 4, and 6 months, 11 percent, 46 percent, and 88 percent of the implant areas were filled with regenerated bone. The regenerated bone was a woven type at two months, but changed to a lamellar type by 6 months. In two implanted defects examined at 12 months, biodegradation of 29 percent of the implant had occurred. The bone regeneration was physiological, the implant was biocompatible, and the biodegradation began after the bone had regenerated.", "PMID": 432330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1050", "title": "Experimental evaluation of ceramic calcium phosphate as a substitute for bone grafts.", "content": "Tricalcium phosphate (Synthos) is a bioceramic material which can be carved with a scalpel and wired into place as a bone graft would be. The process of bone replacement of the prosthesis begins with an ingrowth of cellular loose connective tissue, which is replaced later by dense connective tissue. Around the periphery of this dense fibrous connective tissue, osteoid tissue becomes evident and on later specimens this mixture seems to be converted to bone--which at first is in the form of spicules but later takes on the characteristics of lamellar bone (with tricalcium phosphate particles seen within its lacunae). The progressive replacement occurs in a circumferential pattern, but most heavily at the bone-prosthesis interface. Although the periosteum is beneficial, we do not feel that the major source of bone formation is as the soft tissue or subperiosteal area. The replacement of the tricalcium phosphate prosthesis is slower than we originally thought, or than reported by others. We have noted pockets of tricalcium phosphate, incompletely replaced, in dogs up to 18 months after implantation. We believe this may be related to the larger sized prostheses we used (2 x 2 cm blocks) with, therefore, longer distances that the ingrowth and calcification had to traverse.", "contents": "Experimental evaluation of ceramic calcium phosphate as a substitute for bone grafts. Tricalcium phosphate (Synthos) is a bioceramic material which can be carved with a scalpel and wired into place as a bone graft would be. The process of bone replacement of the prosthesis begins with an ingrowth of cellular loose connective tissue, which is replaced later by dense connective tissue. Around the periphery of this dense fibrous connective tissue, osteoid tissue becomes evident and on later specimens this mixture seems to be converted to bone--which at first is in the form of spicules but later takes on the characteristics of lamellar bone (with tricalcium phosphate particles seen within its lacunae). The progressive replacement occurs in a circumferential pattern, but most heavily at the bone-prosthesis interface. Although the periosteum is beneficial, we do not feel that the major source of bone formation is as the soft tissue or subperiosteal area. The replacement of the tricalcium phosphate prosthesis is slower than we originally thought, or than reported by others. We have noted pockets of tricalcium phosphate, incompletely replaced, in dogs up to 18 months after implantation. We believe this may be related to the larger sized prostheses we used (2 x 2 cm blocks) with, therefore, longer distances that the ingrowth and calcification had to traverse.", "PMID": 432331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1051", "title": "Hemangiomas of the eyelid: visual complications and prophylactic concepts.", "content": "We describe a late survey of 51 patients who had hemangiomas of the eyelid in infancy, together with the visual complications found and a program designed for prevention of the latter.", "contents": "Hemangiomas of the eyelid: visual complications and prophylactic concepts. We describe a late survey of 51 patients who had hemangiomas of the eyelid in infancy, together with the visual complications found and a program designed for prevention of the latter.", "PMID": 432332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1052", "title": "The distally-based gluteus maximus muscle flap.", "content": "We describe a distally-based gluteus maximus muscle flap to cover trochanteric pressure sores. The results in 4 patients have been gratifying.", "contents": "The distally-based gluteus maximus muscle flap. We describe a distally-based gluteus maximus muscle flap to cover trochanteric pressure sores. The results in 4 patients have been gratifying.", "PMID": 432333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1053", "title": "Maxillonasal dysplasia (Binder's syndrome).", "content": "Eleven patients with Binder's syndrome (nasomaxillary hypoplasia) have been treated by the Toronto Craniofacial Team from 1972 to 1977. The treatment has consisted of onlay bone and cartilage grafts to the nose and perialar region for young children, or when the occlusion is normal. However, cases with severe malocclusion were treated by a Le Fort I and/or Le Fort II osteotomy when the children were older. When the malocclusion was less severe, interceptive orthodontics have been useful. The nose can be significantly lengthened and enlarged through a frontal craniotomy incision connected with an upper buccal sulcus incision, without any incision on the face.", "contents": "Maxillonasal dysplasia (Binder's syndrome). Eleven patients with Binder's syndrome (nasomaxillary hypoplasia) have been treated by the Toronto Craniofacial Team from 1972 to 1977. The treatment has consisted of onlay bone and cartilage grafts to the nose and perialar region for young children, or when the occlusion is normal. However, cases with severe malocclusion were treated by a Le Fort I and/or Le Fort II osteotomy when the children were older. When the malocclusion was less severe, interceptive orthodontics have been useful. The nose can be significantly lengthened and enlarged through a frontal craniotomy incision connected with an upper buccal sulcus incision, without any incision on the face.", "PMID": 432334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1054", "title": "Classification of oblique facial clefts with microphthalmia.", "content": "We believe the Tessier classification system facilitates the description of complicated facial clefts, and we describe its use in 4 cases--all of whom had variations of a Tessier-3 cleft. Microphthalmia is associated with the Tessier-3 cleft. Computerized axial tomography may be helpful in differentiating an extreme microphthalmia from a true anophthalmia, and in detecting bony clefts not seen on roentgenographic studies. Facial tomograms show that abnormalities of the medial wall of the orbit in the Tessier-3 cleft vary from actual clefts to widening of the ethmoid. In our experience (with 4 patients) mental retardation does not necessarily occur in patients with the Tessier-3 cleft and extreme microphthalmia. Abnormalities of the nasolacrimal apparatus may be the most constant finding in patients with the Tessier-3 cleft. Children with the Tessier-3 cleft should be identified early for purposes of determining the proper treatment and valid genetic counseling.", "contents": "Classification of oblique facial clefts with microphthalmia. We believe the Tessier classification system facilitates the description of complicated facial clefts, and we describe its use in 4 cases--all of whom had variations of a Tessier-3 cleft. Microphthalmia is associated with the Tessier-3 cleft. Computerized axial tomography may be helpful in differentiating an extreme microphthalmia from a true anophthalmia, and in detecting bony clefts not seen on roentgenographic studies. Facial tomograms show that abnormalities of the medial wall of the orbit in the Tessier-3 cleft vary from actual clefts to widening of the ethmoid. In our experience (with 4 patients) mental retardation does not necessarily occur in patients with the Tessier-3 cleft and extreme microphthalmia. Abnormalities of the nasolacrimal apparatus may be the most constant finding in patients with the Tessier-3 cleft. Children with the Tessier-3 cleft should be identified early for purposes of determining the proper treatment and valid genetic counseling.", "PMID": 432335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1055", "title": "Immunoglobulin, complement, and histocompatibility antigen studies in keloid patients.", "content": "The increased collagen synthesis and deposition, which is characteristic of keloids, may be related to an immune response initiated by wounding. Therefore, we examined various systemic and localized immune parameters in keloid patients to establish if such factors are related to keloid pathogenesis. To determine if there is a systemic immune response, we compared the serum levels of IgG and IgM in keloid patients to those in a closely matched population. In addition, we measured complement levels (Clq, C3, and C4) and receptors for sheep (E), mouse erythrocytes (MRBC), and complement (EAC) on blood lymphocytes. All of these were in the normal range in the keloid patients. However, the extractable IgG from keloid tissue was significantly increased (compared to normal skin and normal scar controls), suggesting a localized immune response. To determine whether keloid formation is associated with a specific histocompatibility locus, human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) profiles of 45 keloid patients were analyzed; no significant differences in the incidence of HLA-A and B antigens were found (compared to 200 controls). These studies suggest that there is a localized immune response involved in keloid pathogenesis, one which is not related to either the HLA-A or B histocompatibility loci.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin, complement, and histocompatibility antigen studies in keloid patients. The increased collagen synthesis and deposition, which is characteristic of keloids, may be related to an immune response initiated by wounding. Therefore, we examined various systemic and localized immune parameters in keloid patients to establish if such factors are related to keloid pathogenesis. To determine if there is a systemic immune response, we compared the serum levels of IgG and IgM in keloid patients to those in a closely matched population. In addition, we measured complement levels (Clq, C3, and C4) and receptors for sheep (E), mouse erythrocytes (MRBC), and complement (EAC) on blood lymphocytes. All of these were in the normal range in the keloid patients. However, the extractable IgG from keloid tissue was significantly increased (compared to normal skin and normal scar controls), suggesting a localized immune response. To determine whether keloid formation is associated with a specific histocompatibility locus, human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) profiles of 45 keloid patients were analyzed; no significant differences in the incidence of HLA-A and B antigens were found (compared to 200 controls). These studies suggest that there is a localized immune response involved in keloid pathogenesis, one which is not related to either the HLA-A or B histocompatibility loci.", "PMID": 432336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1056", "title": "Effects of diffused soluble steroid on capsules around experimental breast prostheses in rats.", "content": "Saline-filled miniprostheses were implanted beneath the dorsal panniculus carnosus of rats. The control prostheses contained only saline, while the experimental prostheses contained soluble methylprednisolone sodium succinate. At 10-day intervals the in situ compressibility of the tissue mound around the implants was measured mechanically. At 60 and 120 days, the control mounds were harder than those around the steroid prostheses, and the control prostheses were surrounded by a thicker capsular membrane. The control capsules contained more non-collagenous protein than the steroid modified capsules. We suggest that this non-collagenous protein may be related to the proteopolysaccharide cement which binds the fibers of immature scar together--and that the effect of our steroid treatment was to reduce this proteopolysaccharide component of the capsule membrane and thereby cause its dissolution.", "contents": "Effects of diffused soluble steroid on capsules around experimental breast prostheses in rats. Saline-filled miniprostheses were implanted beneath the dorsal panniculus carnosus of rats. The control prostheses contained only saline, while the experimental prostheses contained soluble methylprednisolone sodium succinate. At 10-day intervals the in situ compressibility of the tissue mound around the implants was measured mechanically. At 60 and 120 days, the control mounds were harder than those around the steroid prostheses, and the control prostheses were surrounded by a thicker capsular membrane. The control capsules contained more non-collagenous protein than the steroid modified capsules. We suggest that this non-collagenous protein may be related to the proteopolysaccharide cement which binds the fibers of immature scar together--and that the effect of our steroid treatment was to reduce this proteopolysaccharide component of the capsule membrane and thereby cause its dissolution.", "PMID": 432337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1057", "title": "Stages of forced termination: uses of the death metaphor.", "content": "Several patients undergoing forced termination appeared to experience a series of staged reactions similar to those described in dying patients. On the basis of this parallel we explored the effects of using the specific clarification that the ending of therapy was similar to a death. This technique appeared to effectively free up those patients who were stuck in a particular stage of the process so that they could complete the termination. Supporting case material is presented and the clinical implications of this innovation are discussed.", "contents": "Stages of forced termination: uses of the death metaphor. Several patients undergoing forced termination appeared to experience a series of staged reactions similar to those described in dying patients. On the basis of this parallel we explored the effects of using the specific clarification that the ending of therapy was similar to a death. This technique appeared to effectively free up those patients who were stuck in a particular stage of the process so that they could complete the termination. Supporting case material is presented and the clinical implications of this innovation are discussed.", "PMID": 432344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1058", "title": "Migrant farm workers: social conditions, adaptive belief systems, and psychiatric care.", "content": "Two migrant farm labor camps were observed during two summer harvesting seasons. A part of the observations consisted of interviews with 104 farm laborers, with 16 of them being interviewed intensively. Migrant farm workers were exploited by the crew boss and the farm owner, and they in turn exploited each other. Consequently, many workers left farm work. Those who remained in the camps adapted their attitudes and their views to the conditions. Though they had a begrudging respect for the crew boss, they showed an overriding concern with exploitation. They conveyed a numbness about life, themselves, and their place in society; this numbness was combined with self criticism and an attempt to maintain some self-respect. They expressed distrust for and suspicion of others, and though they could not articulate it very well, they felt great fear and anxiety. In order to diagnose and treat disorder in migrant farm workers, psychiatrists must understand the exploitive social setting of migrant farm work and the adaptations of workers to that setting.", "contents": "Migrant farm workers: social conditions, adaptive belief systems, and psychiatric care. Two migrant farm labor camps were observed during two summer harvesting seasons. A part of the observations consisted of interviews with 104 farm laborers, with 16 of them being interviewed intensively. Migrant farm workers were exploited by the crew boss and the farm owner, and they in turn exploited each other. Consequently, many workers left farm work. Those who remained in the camps adapted their attitudes and their views to the conditions. Though they had a begrudging respect for the crew boss, they showed an overriding concern with exploitation. They conveyed a numbness about life, themselves, and their place in society; this numbness was combined with self criticism and an attempt to maintain some self-respect. They expressed distrust for and suspicion of others, and though they could not articulate it very well, they felt great fear and anxiety. In order to diagnose and treat disorder in migrant farm workers, psychiatrists must understand the exploitive social setting of migrant farm work and the adaptations of workers to that setting.", "PMID": 432345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1059", "title": "Doomed status: observations on the segregation of impaired old people.", "content": "The antecedents and consequences of the segregation of severely impaired old people within institutions is a problem that deserves more research attention than it has so far received. Given that such segregation exists and that it has some positive benefits for both staff and residents in homes for the aged, it is proposed that there exist among administration and ward staff impulses to avoid the mentally impaired aged, and that these impulses are part of a more general phylogenetic residue. Many animals show avoidance reactions in the presence of strange objects or strange conspecific individuals, and the more advanced the animal, the more disturbed he seems to be. It is suggested that the segregation of impaired old people consigns them to a doomed role, rather than a sick role, and that the process operates largely through the impact of the activation of the emergency team and the withdrawal of community support and can result in the death of the individual, partly by means of suggestion. Examples of sudden unexplained deaths are drawn from material on simpler societies.", "contents": "Doomed status: observations on the segregation of impaired old people. The antecedents and consequences of the segregation of severely impaired old people within institutions is a problem that deserves more research attention than it has so far received. Given that such segregation exists and that it has some positive benefits for both staff and residents in homes for the aged, it is proposed that there exist among administration and ward staff impulses to avoid the mentally impaired aged, and that these impulses are part of a more general phylogenetic residue. Many animals show avoidance reactions in the presence of strange objects or strange conspecific individuals, and the more advanced the animal, the more disturbed he seems to be. It is suggested that the segregation of impaired old people consigns them to a doomed role, rather than a sick role, and that the process operates largely through the impact of the activation of the emergency team and the withdrawal of community support and can result in the death of the individual, partly by means of suggestion. Examples of sudden unexplained deaths are drawn from material on simpler societies.", "PMID": 432346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1060", "title": "Patients' comments on psychiatric inpatient treatment experiences: patient-therapist relationships and their implications for treatment outcome.", "content": "Only few researchers pay systematic attention to what patients may have to say about their treatment experience during psychiatric hospitalization. This study not only delineates the various therapeutic aspects of an open psychiatric inpatient unit based on the patients' comments, but also attempts to correlate the data with the objective outcome of treatment rated clinically by the therapists and independently by the author. Positive patient-therapist relationship has been found to be the most significant factor correlated closely with the treatment outcome. The correlation may support the relevance of the patients' comments regarding subjectively perceived therapeutic benefits vs. objective actual benefits.", "contents": "Patients' comments on psychiatric inpatient treatment experiences: patient-therapist relationships and their implications for treatment outcome. Only few researchers pay systematic attention to what patients may have to say about their treatment experience during psychiatric hospitalization. This study not only delineates the various therapeutic aspects of an open psychiatric inpatient unit based on the patients' comments, but also attempts to correlate the data with the objective outcome of treatment rated clinically by the therapists and independently by the author. Positive patient-therapist relationship has been found to be the most significant factor correlated closely with the treatment outcome. The correlation may support the relevance of the patients' comments regarding subjectively perceived therapeutic benefits vs. objective actual benefits.", "PMID": 432347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1061", "title": "Adverse reactions to hypnotherapy in obese adolescents: a developmental viewpoint.", "content": "Hypnotherapy is a method of treatment for resistant obesity. This study was undertaken to ascertain the efficacy and/or risks it holds for adolescents. All tended to see hypnosis as a quick solution to longstanding problems. Other forms of weight control therapy had been unsuccessful. Untoward reactions occurred in many teenagers. These included: dissociated state, depersonalization, anxiety and fears. Patients who were not in a deep state of hypnosis were disappointed and viewed this as another failure experience. The severe side effects were observed in those patients in the earlier developmental phases of adolescence.", "contents": "Adverse reactions to hypnotherapy in obese adolescents: a developmental viewpoint. Hypnotherapy is a method of treatment for resistant obesity. This study was undertaken to ascertain the efficacy and/or risks it holds for adolescents. All tended to see hypnosis as a quick solution to longstanding problems. Other forms of weight control therapy had been unsuccessful. Untoward reactions occurred in many teenagers. These included: dissociated state, depersonalization, anxiety and fears. Patients who were not in a deep state of hypnosis were disappointed and viewed this as another failure experience. The severe side effects were observed in those patients in the earlier developmental phases of adolescence.", "PMID": 432348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1062", "title": "The suicidal character.", "content": "Suicidal behavior is generally taken to be symptomatic in nature rather than egosyntonic. However, any behavior which comes to be used as a means of adaptation to the world long enough tends to become ego-syntonic. There are some suicidal people for whom suicidality has become a means of securing nurturance from the interpersonal world. The usual \"crisis response\" to suicidality reinforces such patients in their suicidal styles. Increased long-term risk becomes the price of short-term nurturance. Specific alterations of treatment and management are indicated if such patients are to be helped to long-term survival.", "contents": "The suicidal character. Suicidal behavior is generally taken to be symptomatic in nature rather than egosyntonic. However, any behavior which comes to be used as a means of adaptation to the world long enough tends to become ego-syntonic. There are some suicidal people for whom suicidality has become a means of securing nurturance from the interpersonal world. The usual \"crisis response\" to suicidality reinforces such patients in their suicidal styles. Increased long-term risk becomes the price of short-term nurturance. Specific alterations of treatment and management are indicated if such patients are to be helped to long-term survival.", "PMID": 432349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1063", "title": "[Ten years Heidelberg Day Hospital (author's transl)].", "content": "The article reports on the patient pattern at the Heidelberg day hospital according to the following criteria: Age, sex, social status, diagnoses, etc. The number of cases treated, as well as the development of the number of patients per year, and their period of hospitalization are reviewed over a period of ten years. Basing on a small sample of patients subjected to follow-ups, possible success criteria, such as employment and social relations, are discussed.", "contents": "[Ten years Heidelberg Day Hospital (author's transl)]. The article reports on the patient pattern at the Heidelberg day hospital according to the following criteria: Age, sex, social status, diagnoses, etc. The number of cases treated, as well as the development of the number of patients per year, and their period of hospitalization are reviewed over a period of ten years. Basing on a small sample of patients subjected to follow-ups, possible success criteria, such as employment and social relations, are discussed.", "PMID": 432351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1064", "title": "[Therapeutic atmosphere in psychiatric wards--an attitudinal study (author's transl)].", "content": "Psychiatric care in the Federal Republic of Germany has been consistently improving in recent years. In many psychiatric institutions therapeutic development has moved away from the \"custodian\" pattern toward a sociopsychiatric and patientoriented therapy. Those who are mainly concerned with this change, namely, the patients themselves, have so far been approached only rarely to give their opinion about conditions in their ward or to say how they experience and assess the situation in their ward. The present study attempts to explore, with the help of a questionnaire, the attitude of inpatients toward the psychiatric institution or ward. The following results are considered to be important: There is hardly any difference in the attitude of the patients toward the four hospitals investigated in Baden-W\u00fcrttemberg; Patients treated in open wards were significantly more satisfied than patients in closed wards; with increasing age, the patients expressed greater satisfaction with regard to the hopes for the future imparted by aimed therapeutic measures, and also with regard to material aspects of their environment; female patients are on the whole more content than male ones; the socioeconomical level and diagnosis of the patients influence their attitude toward the psychiatric institution.", "contents": "[Therapeutic atmosphere in psychiatric wards--an attitudinal study (author's transl)]. Psychiatric care in the Federal Republic of Germany has been consistently improving in recent years. In many psychiatric institutions therapeutic development has moved away from the \"custodian\" pattern toward a sociopsychiatric and patientoriented therapy. Those who are mainly concerned with this change, namely, the patients themselves, have so far been approached only rarely to give their opinion about conditions in their ward or to say how they experience and assess the situation in their ward. The present study attempts to explore, with the help of a questionnaire, the attitude of inpatients toward the psychiatric institution or ward. The following results are considered to be important: There is hardly any difference in the attitude of the patients toward the four hospitals investigated in Baden-W\u00fcrttemberg; Patients treated in open wards were significantly more satisfied than patients in closed wards; with increasing age, the patients expressed greater satisfaction with regard to the hopes for the future imparted by aimed therapeutic measures, and also with regard to material aspects of their environment; female patients are on the whole more content than male ones; the socioeconomical level and diagnosis of the patients influence their attitude toward the psychiatric institution.", "PMID": 432352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1065", "title": "[The compulsory confinement of mental patients (author's transl)].", "content": "Compulsory transfer of mental patients to closed hospital wards will continue to be a special burden on psychiatrists, social workers, relatives and legal courts. Attempts to establish close mutual therapeutic contacts must set in as early as ever possible. Medical and legal aspects regarding the implementation of the \"confinement laws\" are described, while taking into consideration recent developments in medical treatment and legislature.", "contents": "[The compulsory confinement of mental patients (author's transl)]. Compulsory transfer of mental patients to closed hospital wards will continue to be a special burden on psychiatrists, social workers, relatives and legal courts. Attempts to establish close mutual therapeutic contacts must set in as early as ever possible. Medical and legal aspects regarding the implementation of the \"confinement laws\" are described, while taking into consideration recent developments in medical treatment and legislature.", "PMID": 432354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1066", "title": "[The limits of social reintegration after longterm psychiatric hospitalisation (author's transl)].", "content": "In cooperation with the University Clinic for Psychiatry, Innsbruck, the social psychiatric service of the regional government of South Tyrol set up a rehabilitation programm, under which 35 longterm hospitalized schizophrenic patients with an average stay in hospital of 12,9 years have been taken over by district institutions as outpatients. The object of our investigation was to study critically the working capability and the social relations of the 35 patients, the duration of postclinical catamneses is at least 3, at maximal 25 years. The degree of obtained reintegration is documented by the working situation and the number of social contacts. The obtained extent of resocialization and the proved positive social adaptation make it sensible to start a rehabilitation even with cronical patients with hospitalisation over decades: precondition is however a continual psychiatric care and control.", "contents": "[The limits of social reintegration after longterm psychiatric hospitalisation (author's transl)]. In cooperation with the University Clinic for Psychiatry, Innsbruck, the social psychiatric service of the regional government of South Tyrol set up a rehabilitation programm, under which 35 longterm hospitalized schizophrenic patients with an average stay in hospital of 12,9 years have been taken over by district institutions as outpatients. The object of our investigation was to study critically the working capability and the social relations of the 35 patients, the duration of postclinical catamneses is at least 3, at maximal 25 years. The degree of obtained reintegration is documented by the working situation and the number of social contacts. The obtained extent of resocialization and the proved positive social adaptation make it sensible to start a rehabilitation even with cronical patients with hospitalisation over decades: precondition is however a continual psychiatric care and control.", "PMID": 432356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1067", "title": "[Further developments in legislation governing guardianship and nursing care laws (author's transl)].", "content": "The legal measures covering protection and care in connection with legislation governing guardianship and fosterage involving medical nursing, which have remained unchanged in principle since 1896, increasingly create the risk of obstructing and hampering the treatment and rehabilitation of mental patients. In order to counteract this development, which is hostile to therapy, as can be demonstrated by means of concrete examples, a number of differentiated deliberations to improve the situation have been included in the expertise preparatory to the inquiry on the situation of psychiatry in the Federal Republic of Germany, dated 1975. These suggestions, which are well differentiated and aim at a minimum restriction of the rights of the individual in respect of protection of his personality, seem to be hardly sufficiently known, so that no use is made of them in public, political and expert discussions. Hence it appeared necessary to point once again to these suggestions as impressively as possible.", "contents": "[Further developments in legislation governing guardianship and nursing care laws (author's transl)]. The legal measures covering protection and care in connection with legislation governing guardianship and fosterage involving medical nursing, which have remained unchanged in principle since 1896, increasingly create the risk of obstructing and hampering the treatment and rehabilitation of mental patients. In order to counteract this development, which is hostile to therapy, as can be demonstrated by means of concrete examples, a number of differentiated deliberations to improve the situation have been included in the expertise preparatory to the inquiry on the situation of psychiatry in the Federal Republic of Germany, dated 1975. These suggestions, which are well differentiated and aim at a minimum restriction of the rights of the individual in respect of protection of his personality, seem to be hardly sufficiently known, so that no use is made of them in public, political and expert discussions. Hence it appeared necessary to point once again to these suggestions as impressively as possible.", "PMID": 432357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1068", "title": "[A sociotherapeutic living-centre for psychiatric patients (author's transl)].", "content": "One of the functions of a psychiatric hospital is the so-called private or guest-house function. Each methodical-therapeutic approach, eventually constitutes to the existence of a normal human residence. The anthropological structure of this residence, is characterised by a polar buffer between openess and privacy. In the \"Sociotherapeutic Centre\" at the psychiatric hospital \"Wolfheze\", stature is given to this private or guest-house function. The importance of the sociotherapeutic centre, lies in the living together of patients, with and for each other. The numerous hospitalizing neurotic effects, of long term nursing in big-pavilions, are minimised by the living together of patients in small groups. Hospitalization is primarily considered as a positive matter. The negative effects of the treatment fall under term \"hospitalizationsyndrome\". Living, hospitalization on one side and rehabilitation on the other are no contrast. The differences of these living-groups offer the best chances for socio-therapy and rehabilitation.", "contents": "[A sociotherapeutic living-centre for psychiatric patients (author's transl)]. One of the functions of a psychiatric hospital is the so-called private or guest-house function. Each methodical-therapeutic approach, eventually constitutes to the existence of a normal human residence. The anthropological structure of this residence, is characterised by a polar buffer between openess and privacy. In the \"Sociotherapeutic Centre\" at the psychiatric hospital \"Wolfheze\", stature is given to this private or guest-house function. The importance of the sociotherapeutic centre, lies in the living together of patients, with and for each other. The numerous hospitalizing neurotic effects, of long term nursing in big-pavilions, are minimised by the living together of patients in small groups. Hospitalization is primarily considered as a positive matter. The negative effects of the treatment fall under term \"hospitalizationsyndrome\". Living, hospitalization on one side and rehabilitation on the other are no contrast. The differences of these living-groups offer the best chances for socio-therapy and rehabilitation.", "PMID": 432358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1069", "title": "A naturalistic study of social influences on meal size among moderately obese and nonobese subjects.", "content": "The present study examined the amount of food chosen by moderately obese and nonobese customers in a university cafeteria as a function of whether they were about to eat alone or were explicitly accompanied by others during lunch. It was hypothesized that many overweight individuals are self-conscious about eating due to perceived social pressures, and that obese people would therefore choose less food (i.e., suppress intake) when eating with others than when alone. Food selections of a matched sample of overweight and nonobese individuals were recorded, and subjects were observed as they took a seat to determine if they ate alone or with others. Caloric values of foods chosen for each meal were computed. Results for the number of calories indicated that, as predicted, overweight subjects purchased less food when accompanied than when alone. Nonobese individuals, by contrast, chose more food when with others than when alone. In addition, males chose more food than females and obese subjects chose more than normals. Results were discussed in terms of the impact of social variables on eating behavior, and the theoretical importance of weight consciousness and pereceived social pressures in understanding correlates of obesity. Several alternative explanations were addressed.", "contents": "A naturalistic study of social influences on meal size among moderately obese and nonobese subjects. The present study examined the amount of food chosen by moderately obese and nonobese customers in a university cafeteria as a function of whether they were about to eat alone or were explicitly accompanied by others during lunch. It was hypothesized that many overweight individuals are self-conscious about eating due to perceived social pressures, and that obese people would therefore choose less food (i.e., suppress intake) when eating with others than when alone. Food selections of a matched sample of overweight and nonobese individuals were recorded, and subjects were observed as they took a seat to determine if they ate alone or with others. Caloric values of foods chosen for each meal were computed. Results for the number of calories indicated that, as predicted, overweight subjects purchased less food when accompanied than when alone. Nonobese individuals, by contrast, chose more food when with others than when alone. In addition, males chose more food than females and obese subjects chose more than normals. Results were discussed in terms of the impact of social variables on eating behavior, and the theoretical importance of weight consciousness and pereceived social pressures in understanding correlates of obesity. Several alternative explanations were addressed.", "PMID": 432359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1070", "title": "Social interactions, communications, and the coronary-prone behavior pattern: a psychophysiological study.", "content": "Sixty subjects classified as either Type A or Type B interacted in pairs by pressing buttons which transmitted messages through a television screen while the heart rate and digital blood volume pulse were computer-monitored. Partners could cooperate, compete, punish, reward, or withdraw on each interaction and could send 1 of 55 messages communicating feelings, requests, and behavioral intentions between interactions. Interactions and communications between Type A subjects were strikingly different from Type B subjects. Type A's were noticeably more aggressive competitive. Type A dyads also exhibited larger digital vasomotor responses than Type B dyads. When Type A subjects and Type B subjects interacted with each other, rather than with a same-type partner, the differences between them in behavior and vasomotor response largely disappeared.", "contents": "Social interactions, communications, and the coronary-prone behavior pattern: a psychophysiological study. Sixty subjects classified as either Type A or Type B interacted in pairs by pressing buttons which transmitted messages through a television screen while the heart rate and digital blood volume pulse were computer-monitored. Partners could cooperate, compete, punish, reward, or withdraw on each interaction and could send 1 of 55 messages communicating feelings, requests, and behavioral intentions between interactions. Interactions and communications between Type A subjects were strikingly different from Type B subjects. Type A's were noticeably more aggressive competitive. Type A dyads also exhibited larger digital vasomotor responses than Type B dyads. When Type A subjects and Type B subjects interacted with each other, rather than with a same-type partner, the differences between them in behavior and vasomotor response largely disappeared.", "PMID": 432360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1071", "title": "Effects of thematically relevant and general stressors on specificity of responding in asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects.", "content": "Twenty-nine mild asthmatics and 12 nonasthmatics were exposed to three films of varying emotional content to assess differential patterns of physiological response in the cardiac, ventilatory, and bronchial systems. Results indicated that only cardiac interbeat interval (IBI) and total respiratory resistance (RT) were reliable indices of reactivity. In a film of thematic relevance to asthmatics which depicted asthmatic children in a hospital setting, asthmatics evidenced sustained elevation of RT throughout the entire film with no reactivity in IBI. Nonasthmatics did not evidence any significant reactivity to the film. In a film of a generally stressful nature which depicted industrial accidents, asthmatics evidenced elevated RT in response to the accident scenes. Both asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects responded to the post-accident periods with increases in IBI. In a film depicting a mother giving up her child for adoption, asthmatics responded to the relinquishing of the child with elevated RT. These results are discussed in terms of the necessity of evolving a comprehensive theory of specificity patterns in psychosomatic disorders which goes beyond models of symptom specificity and stimulus-response specificity, neither of which can adequately account for these results. The results are further seen as supporting the utility of selecting stressors of thematic relevance to asthmatics and measuring symptom-relevant indices of physiological reactivity to isolate these specificity patterns in response to stress.", "contents": "Effects of thematically relevant and general stressors on specificity of responding in asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects. Twenty-nine mild asthmatics and 12 nonasthmatics were exposed to three films of varying emotional content to assess differential patterns of physiological response in the cardiac, ventilatory, and bronchial systems. Results indicated that only cardiac interbeat interval (IBI) and total respiratory resistance (RT) were reliable indices of reactivity. In a film of thematic relevance to asthmatics which depicted asthmatic children in a hospital setting, asthmatics evidenced sustained elevation of RT throughout the entire film with no reactivity in IBI. Nonasthmatics did not evidence any significant reactivity to the film. In a film of a generally stressful nature which depicted industrial accidents, asthmatics evidenced elevated RT in response to the accident scenes. Both asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects responded to the post-accident periods with increases in IBI. In a film depicting a mother giving up her child for adoption, asthmatics responded to the relinquishing of the child with elevated RT. These results are discussed in terms of the necessity of evolving a comprehensive theory of specificity patterns in psychosomatic disorders which goes beyond models of symptom specificity and stimulus-response specificity, neither of which can adequately account for these results. The results are further seen as supporting the utility of selecting stressors of thematic relevance to asthmatics and measuring symptom-relevant indices of physiological reactivity to isolate these specificity patterns in response to stress.", "PMID": 432361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1072", "title": "Psychological stress, ego defenses, and cortisol production in children hospitalized for elective surgery.", "content": "This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the effectiveness of coping mechanisms and physiological indicators of distress in children faced with the experience of hospitalization and surgery. Twenty-five children between the ages of 7 and 11 were studied in the out-patient department, 2 weeks before surgery, and again during their hospital stay. Effectiveness of defenses and defense style was measured by a clinical interview and by the Rorschach test. Cortisol production rates were measured by the analysis of 24-hour urine collections at home and again in the hospital. Ward adjustment was also rated by a ward questionnaire. The results indicated no relationship between defense effectiveness and cortisol production rates in the out-patient department and an inverse relationship between cortisol production and defense effectiveness under the stress of hospitalization. Defense style was found to correlate with coping under stress. Four different groups of children emerged, suggesting four different types of reaction to the hospital experience.", "contents": "Psychological stress, ego defenses, and cortisol production in children hospitalized for elective surgery. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the effectiveness of coping mechanisms and physiological indicators of distress in children faced with the experience of hospitalization and surgery. Twenty-five children between the ages of 7 and 11 were studied in the out-patient department, 2 weeks before surgery, and again during their hospital stay. Effectiveness of defenses and defense style was measured by a clinical interview and by the Rorschach test. Cortisol production rates were measured by the analysis of 24-hour urine collections at home and again in the hospital. Ward adjustment was also rated by a ward questionnaire. The results indicated no relationship between defense effectiveness and cortisol production rates in the out-patient department and an inverse relationship between cortisol production and defense effectiveness under the stress of hospitalization. Defense style was found to correlate with coping under stress. Four different groups of children emerged, suggesting four different types of reaction to the hospital experience.", "PMID": 432362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1073", "title": "The gross national health product: a proposed population health index.", "content": "A population health status index designated as the gross national health product (GNHP) is proposed as a general measure of the health of nations or population groups. The GNHP integrates mortality and disability data into a single number in units of disability-free life years lived per 100,000 population. It is based primarily on mortality ratios and life expectancies of component age groups of the population, modified by their respective disability experiences. A computational example with data currently available on U.S. geographic regions from publications of the National Center for Health Statistics shows that the GNHP was highest in the West, indicating the highest number of disability-free years lived. Because of simplicity in its computation and interpretation, the GNHP can be used by health systems agencies (HSAs) in monitoring their performance or in conducting comparative studies.", "contents": "The gross national health product: a proposed population health index. A population health status index designated as the gross national health product (GNHP) is proposed as a general measure of the health of nations or population groups. The GNHP integrates mortality and disability data into a single number in units of disability-free life years lived per 100,000 population. It is based primarily on mortality ratios and life expectancies of component age groups of the population, modified by their respective disability experiences. A computational example with data currently available on U.S. geographic regions from publications of the National Center for Health Statistics shows that the GNHP was highest in the West, indicating the highest number of disability-free years lived. Because of simplicity in its computation and interpretation, the GNHP can be used by health systems agencies (HSAs) in monitoring their performance or in conducting comparative studies.", "PMID": 432403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1074", "title": "Hypertension followup in an urban black population.", "content": "In a 5-year period, 215 black hypertensives were identified at a neighborhood primary care center that offered free services to residents of a low-income housing project. The mean length of followup for the group was about 34 months, and 183 persons were followed for more than 1 year. Their mean age was 56 years; there were 34 men and 181 women in the group. Fifty-six percent of the 215 persons had a history of hypertension when they came to the center. Three types of outcome measures were examined in this study: (a) compliance, in terms of continued activity in the clinic; (b) lower blood pressure, preferably in the normal range; and (c) development of complications of hypertension. Sixty-seven percent of those alive and still residing in the area were continuing in the program; 37% achieved normotension and an added 21% had improved blood pressure readings. There was no statistical difference in the occurrence of hypertensive complications by initial severity of the hypertension or by how well the blood pressure was controlled. The 75 obese women in the group had more severe hypertension, more new complications, and were less likely to achieve normotension than the 106 nonobese women. These relationships were statistically significant.", "contents": "Hypertension followup in an urban black population. In a 5-year period, 215 black hypertensives were identified at a neighborhood primary care center that offered free services to residents of a low-income housing project. The mean length of followup for the group was about 34 months, and 183 persons were followed for more than 1 year. Their mean age was 56 years; there were 34 men and 181 women in the group. Fifty-six percent of the 215 persons had a history of hypertension when they came to the center. Three types of outcome measures were examined in this study: (a) compliance, in terms of continued activity in the clinic; (b) lower blood pressure, preferably in the normal range; and (c) development of complications of hypertension. Sixty-seven percent of those alive and still residing in the area were continuing in the program; 37% achieved normotension and an added 21% had improved blood pressure readings. There was no statistical difference in the occurrence of hypertensive complications by initial severity of the hypertension or by how well the blood pressure was controlled. The 75 obese women in the group had more severe hypertension, more new complications, and were less likely to achieve normotension than the 106 nonobese women. These relationships were statistically significant.", "PMID": 432405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1075", "title": "Human antirabies treatment in the United States, 1972.", "content": "Data were examined on 965 persons treated in six States (Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Dakota, and South Carolina) and New York City in 1972 for possible rabies exposure. Males 10-19 years were found to be the group at greatest risk, and exposures occurred most frequently during the warm months. Dogs, other domestic animals, and wildlife were about equally responsible for human exposures in the six States, but 99% of the exposures in New York City involved dogs. Antirabies postexposure prophylaxis varied markedly among reporting areas and frequently did not follow current recommendations. The mean delay in initiation of treatment after exposure was 4 1/2 days. The mean number of doses of vaccine for treatment was 12; only 10% of the persons treated received antirabies serum.", "contents": "Human antirabies treatment in the United States, 1972. Data were examined on 965 persons treated in six States (Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Dakota, and South Carolina) and New York City in 1972 for possible rabies exposure. Males 10-19 years were found to be the group at greatest risk, and exposures occurred most frequently during the warm months. Dogs, other domestic animals, and wildlife were about equally responsible for human exposures in the six States, but 99% of the exposures in New York City involved dogs. Antirabies postexposure prophylaxis varied markedly among reporting areas and frequently did not follow current recommendations. The mean delay in initiation of treatment after exposure was 4 1/2 days. The mean number of doses of vaccine for treatment was 12; only 10% of the persons treated received antirabies serum.", "PMID": 432411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1076", "title": "Home-made radiographic phantoms.", "content": "The article describes a method of manufacture for homemade radiographic phantoms. The stages of manufacture and material requirements are described. The phantoms described are used as teaching aids in the Royal Naval School of Radiography.", "contents": "Home-made radiographic phantoms. The article describes a method of manufacture for homemade radiographic phantoms. The stages of manufacture and material requirements are described. The phantoms described are used as teaching aids in the Royal Naval School of Radiography.", "PMID": 432420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1077", "title": "Effect of narcotics on monoamine oxidase activity of mouse brain.", "content": "The effect of morphine, levorphanol and methadone on the monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity of mouse brain was studied. Both methadone and levorphanol produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of whole brain mitochondrial MAO in vitro with an IC50 of approximately 7.4 x 10(-4) for levorphanol and 2.5 x 10(-6)M for methadone. Methadone also produced a 60% inhibition of the MAO activity of the hippocampus, a 32% inhibition of the striatal and hypothalamic enzyme, a 30% inhibition of liver, and a 20 and 23% inhibition of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, respectively. Naloxone did not antagonize this effect of methadone. In contrast, morphine had little effect in vitro except at very high concentrations where it was inhibitory. This was not linear with concentration and no IC50 could be estimated. This would imply that the inhibition by morphine is non-specific. When acutely administered to mice, morphine and methadone, again differed. Methadone produced a slight but significant inhibition of whole brain MAO and a 34% inhibition of the striatal enzyme. Morphine, on the other hand, produced a marked enhancement in the activity of the striatal enzyme. Since this action could not be demonstrated in vitro, it would suggest that the in vivo effect of morphine is indirect resulting from an alteration of some other modulating system.", "contents": "Effect of narcotics on monoamine oxidase activity of mouse brain. The effect of morphine, levorphanol and methadone on the monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity of mouse brain was studied. Both methadone and levorphanol produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of whole brain mitochondrial MAO in vitro with an IC50 of approximately 7.4 x 10(-4) for levorphanol and 2.5 x 10(-6)M for methadone. Methadone also produced a 60% inhibition of the MAO activity of the hippocampus, a 32% inhibition of the striatal and hypothalamic enzyme, a 30% inhibition of liver, and a 20 and 23% inhibition of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, respectively. Naloxone did not antagonize this effect of methadone. In contrast, morphine had little effect in vitro except at very high concentrations where it was inhibitory. This was not linear with concentration and no IC50 could be estimated. This would imply that the inhibition by morphine is non-specific. When acutely administered to mice, morphine and methadone, again differed. Methadone produced a slight but significant inhibition of whole brain MAO and a 34% inhibition of the striatal enzyme. Morphine, on the other hand, produced a marked enhancement in the activity of the striatal enzyme. Since this action could not be demonstrated in vitro, it would suggest that the in vivo effect of morphine is indirect resulting from an alteration of some other modulating system.", "PMID": 432429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1078", "title": "The influence of chlordimeform on calcium and glucose homeostasis.", "content": "The effects of single and repeated administration of chlordimeform on calcium and glucose homeostasis were examined in the rat. A single injection of chlordimeform (100 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a rapid 15 percent decrease in plasma calcium and a 64 percent rise in plasma glucose. The administration of chlordimeform (75 mg/kg, i.p., twice daily) over a period of 7 days caused an 8 percent reduction in plasma calcium, a 50 percent decrease in duodenal calcium transport and a 20 percent decrease in body weight.", "contents": "The influence of chlordimeform on calcium and glucose homeostasis. The effects of single and repeated administration of chlordimeform on calcium and glucose homeostasis were examined in the rat. A single injection of chlordimeform (100 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a rapid 15 percent decrease in plasma calcium and a 64 percent rise in plasma glucose. The administration of chlordimeform (75 mg/kg, i.p., twice daily) over a period of 7 days caused an 8 percent reduction in plasma calcium, a 50 percent decrease in duodenal calcium transport and a 20 percent decrease in body weight.", "PMID": 432430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1079", "title": "Light-evoked changes in chick optic lobe adenylate-cyclase.", "content": "The effects of exposure to 48 h darkness and to stroboscope stimulation on chick optic lobe adenylate-cyclase activity were studied. A significant decrease in adenylate-cyclase after 48 h exposure to darkness occurred with return to normal values after re-exposure to light. Stroboscope stimulation for 3 min produced instead a marked increase in optic lobe adenylate-cyclase. Present experiments suggest that cAMP may serve as inhibitory messenger in synaptic transmission along central visual pathways.", "contents": "Light-evoked changes in chick optic lobe adenylate-cyclase. The effects of exposure to 48 h darkness and to stroboscope stimulation on chick optic lobe adenylate-cyclase activity were studied. A significant decrease in adenylate-cyclase after 48 h exposure to darkness occurred with return to normal values after re-exposure to light. Stroboscope stimulation for 3 min produced instead a marked increase in optic lobe adenylate-cyclase. Present experiments suggest that cAMP may serve as inhibitory messenger in synaptic transmission along central visual pathways.", "PMID": 432431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1080", "title": "Brain sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate metabolism in hypothyroid rats.", "content": "Neonatal hypothyroidism reduced the concentration of sulfatide in myelin and synaptosomes isolated from brains of 20-21 day old rats. The in vivo incorporation of 35SO4 into sulfatide of myelin, microsomal, animals, as was the incorporation of the isotope into non-lipid sulfate (sulfated glycoproteins and mucopolysaccarides) of microsomal and synaptosomal fractions. In contrast, when animals were made hypothyroid at one month of age, no depletion of brain sulfatide or alteration of incorporation of 35SO4 into sulfatide was found, although incorporation of the isotope into non-lipid sulfate of myelin, mitochondria and synaptosomes was increased by this treatment. These results indicate that the metabolism of sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate of brain membranes is much more susceptible to alteration by hypothyroidism in neonatal than may alter the metabolims of sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate in neuronal as well as myelin membranes.", "contents": "Brain sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate metabolism in hypothyroid rats. Neonatal hypothyroidism reduced the concentration of sulfatide in myelin and synaptosomes isolated from brains of 20-21 day old rats. The in vivo incorporation of 35SO4 into sulfatide of myelin, microsomal, animals, as was the incorporation of the isotope into non-lipid sulfate (sulfated glycoproteins and mucopolysaccarides) of microsomal and synaptosomal fractions. In contrast, when animals were made hypothyroid at one month of age, no depletion of brain sulfatide or alteration of incorporation of 35SO4 into sulfatide was found, although incorporation of the isotope into non-lipid sulfate of myelin, mitochondria and synaptosomes was increased by this treatment. These results indicate that the metabolism of sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate of brain membranes is much more susceptible to alteration by hypothyroidism in neonatal than may alter the metabolims of sulfatide and non-lipid sulfate in neuronal as well as myelin membranes.", "PMID": 432433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1081", "title": "Sugar derivatives and liver mitochondria. I. - Effect of methyl-3,5-di-O-benzyl-2-chloro-2-deoxy-D-arabinofuranoside.", "content": "Effect of fifteen sugar derivatives on oxygen uptake and oxidative phosphorylation by liver mitochondria were tested. Full details of the possible mechanism of action of methyl-3,5-di-O-benzyl-2-chloro-2-deoxy-D-arabinofuranoside (VI) was presented. This sugar derivative seems to act as inhibitor of the electron transport in the respiratory chain and as an uncoupler.", "contents": "Sugar derivatives and liver mitochondria. I. - Effect of methyl-3,5-di-O-benzyl-2-chloro-2-deoxy-D-arabinofuranoside. Effect of fifteen sugar derivatives on oxygen uptake and oxidative phosphorylation by liver mitochondria were tested. Full details of the possible mechanism of action of methyl-3,5-di-O-benzyl-2-chloro-2-deoxy-D-arabinofuranoside (VI) was presented. This sugar derivative seems to act as inhibitor of the electron transport in the respiratory chain and as an uncoupler.", "PMID": 432434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1082", "title": "Effective plasma concentration of N-acetylprocainamide in rats.", "content": "Six groups of rats received saline or N-Acetylprocainamide (NAPA) 2--50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally. Thirty minutes later heart rates were measured and simultaneously a blood sample was withdrawn from each rat. There was a linear relationship between plasma concentrations and the administered doses, suggesting linear pharmacokinetics for NAPA. The heart rate was decreased significantly when the average NAPA plasma concentration was 16.8 microgram/ml, which is similar to that found in man.", "contents": "Effective plasma concentration of N-acetylprocainamide in rats. Six groups of rats received saline or N-Acetylprocainamide (NAPA) 2--50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally. Thirty minutes later heart rates were measured and simultaneously a blood sample was withdrawn from each rat. There was a linear relationship between plasma concentrations and the administered doses, suggesting linear pharmacokinetics for NAPA. The heart rate was decreased significantly when the average NAPA plasma concentration was 16.8 microgram/ml, which is similar to that found in man.", "PMID": 432435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1083", "title": "Side-chain monofluorinated analogs of amphetamine and p-chloroamphetamine. Effects on release of dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine from rat striatum.", "content": "Monofluorinated analogs of (+/-)-amphetamine and (+/-)-p-chloroamphetamine, in which the methyl group was replaced with a monofluoromethyl group, have pKa values approximately 1.65 units lower than those of their amphetamine counter-parts but retain some ability to stimulate release of dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine, respectively, from rat corpus striatum.", "contents": "Side-chain monofluorinated analogs of amphetamine and p-chloroamphetamine. Effects on release of dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine from rat striatum. Monofluorinated analogs of (+/-)-amphetamine and (+/-)-p-chloroamphetamine, in which the methyl group was replaced with a monofluoromethyl group, have pKa values approximately 1.65 units lower than those of their amphetamine counter-parts but retain some ability to stimulate release of dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine, respectively, from rat corpus striatum.", "PMID": 432436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1084", "title": "Measurement of propranolol, 4-hydroxypropranolol and propranolol glycol in human plasma.", "content": "An HPLC method for the quantitative determination of propranolol, 4-hydroxypropranolol, and propranolol glycol in human plasma is described. The limits of sensitivity for the method were: 1 ng/ml propranolol; 5 ng/ml 4-hydroxypropranolol; and 1 ng/ml propranolol glycol. Data obtained from 6 healthy volunteers given a single 160 mg oral dose of propranolol revealed mean (+/- SEM) peak plasma levels of 31 +/- 10 ng/ml for 4-hydroxypropranolol and 9 +/- 2 ng/ml for propranolol glycol. These plasma levels were less than the peak concentrations recorded for propranolol (123 +/- 34 ng/ml. The rates of plasma decay of these two metabolites were greater than that observed for propranolol.", "contents": "Measurement of propranolol, 4-hydroxypropranolol and propranolol glycol in human plasma. An HPLC method for the quantitative determination of propranolol, 4-hydroxypropranolol, and propranolol glycol in human plasma is described. The limits of sensitivity for the method were: 1 ng/ml propranolol; 5 ng/ml 4-hydroxypropranolol; and 1 ng/ml propranolol glycol. Data obtained from 6 healthy volunteers given a single 160 mg oral dose of propranolol revealed mean (+/- SEM) peak plasma levels of 31 +/- 10 ng/ml for 4-hydroxypropranolol and 9 +/- 2 ng/ml for propranolol glycol. These plasma levels were less than the peak concentrations recorded for propranolol (123 +/- 34 ng/ml. The rates of plasma decay of these two metabolites were greater than that observed for propranolol.", "PMID": 432438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1085", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of verapamil in man.", "content": "Verapamil was given intravenously (10 mg) and orally (120 mg) in six healthy subjects. After intravenous administration, the serum levels in all subjects declined bi-exponentially. Thereupon, pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a two-compartment open model. The half-lives of distribution (T 1/2 alpha) and elimination (T 1/2 beta) phases showed 0.23 hour and 4.21 hour on an average respectively. The apparent volume of distribution [Vd (area)] showed 2.51 1/kg and body clearance (C1b) showed 500.64 ml/min on an average. Renal clearance was smaller than normal human creatinine clearance. After oral administration, the time to reach peak blood level (Tmax) was reached within 1.84 hour and the peak serum concentration showed 219.09 ng/ml on an average. The bioavailability was only 22.47% on an average. Verapamil produced a marked prolongation of PQ interval on electrocardiogram and the degree of PQ interval prolongation was closely related to the increase in serum concentration of this compound. QRS, QTc and RR interval were not changed by this compound.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of verapamil in man. Verapamil was given intravenously (10 mg) and orally (120 mg) in six healthy subjects. After intravenous administration, the serum levels in all subjects declined bi-exponentially. Thereupon, pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a two-compartment open model. The half-lives of distribution (T 1/2 alpha) and elimination (T 1/2 beta) phases showed 0.23 hour and 4.21 hour on an average respectively. The apparent volume of distribution [Vd (area)] showed 2.51 1/kg and body clearance (C1b) showed 500.64 ml/min on an average. Renal clearance was smaller than normal human creatinine clearance. After oral administration, the time to reach peak blood level (Tmax) was reached within 1.84 hour and the peak serum concentration showed 219.09 ng/ml on an average. The bioavailability was only 22.47% on an average. Verapamil produced a marked prolongation of PQ interval on electrocardiogram and the degree of PQ interval prolongation was closely related to the increase in serum concentration of this compound. QRS, QTc and RR interval were not changed by this compound.", "PMID": 432439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1086", "title": "Ether-induced vasodilation in the rat.", "content": "The hypotensive effect of ether in rats was investigated by the direct Fick technique to determine whether hypotension was produced by reduced cardiac output or decreased total peripheral resistance. Relative to the conscious state, ether anesthesia decreased mean arterial pressure 9%, total peripheral resistance 47%, oxygen extraction 37%, and heart rate 7%; changes were qualitatively similar to those produced by hydralazine (0.5 mg/kg, i.v.) except that hydralazine did not decrease heart rate. These effects were no longer present two hours after withdrawal of ether. This study demonstrated that ether anesthesia in rats has a potent systemic arterial vasodilating action which is offset by increased cardiac output, resulting in mild hypotension.", "contents": "Ether-induced vasodilation in the rat. The hypotensive effect of ether in rats was investigated by the direct Fick technique to determine whether hypotension was produced by reduced cardiac output or decreased total peripheral resistance. Relative to the conscious state, ether anesthesia decreased mean arterial pressure 9%, total peripheral resistance 47%, oxygen extraction 37%, and heart rate 7%; changes were qualitatively similar to those produced by hydralazine (0.5 mg/kg, i.v.) except that hydralazine did not decrease heart rate. These effects were no longer present two hours after withdrawal of ether. This study demonstrated that ether anesthesia in rats has a potent systemic arterial vasodilating action which is offset by increased cardiac output, resulting in mild hypotension.", "PMID": 432440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1087", "title": "Solvent system effects on drug absorption.", "content": "The in situ rat gut technique was used to determine 14-C salicylic acid absorption from aqueous solutions containing 20% glycerol, 20% propylene glycol, 10% ethanol, and 20% polyethylylene glycols (PEG) 4000 and 6000. A phosphate buffer solution of salicylic acid served as a control. Observed rate constants for disappearance of activity from the gut are 0.031 min-1 for glycerol, 0.0327 min-1 for PEG 6000, 0.0395 min-1 for propylene glycol, 0.475 min-1 for polyethylene glycol 4000, 0.0558 min-1 for ethanol, and 0.0752 min-1 for the control. The rate of disappearance from the gut is significantly slower than control for 20% glycerol, PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 solutions (p less than or equal to 0.01). Activity disappears more rapidly from 10% ethanol solutions than from PEG 6000 and glycerol (p = 0.01). Water flux into and out of the intestinal lumen was estimated from tritiated inulin concentrations in the perfusate. A trend for increased loss of activity from ethanol and control solutions associated with net water efflux from the intestine was observed. These results suggest that the composition of drug delivery systems may significantly affect the absorption of drugs from solution.", "contents": "Solvent system effects on drug absorption. The in situ rat gut technique was used to determine 14-C salicylic acid absorption from aqueous solutions containing 20% glycerol, 20% propylene glycol, 10% ethanol, and 20% polyethylylene glycols (PEG) 4000 and 6000. A phosphate buffer solution of salicylic acid served as a control. Observed rate constants for disappearance of activity from the gut are 0.031 min-1 for glycerol, 0.0327 min-1 for PEG 6000, 0.0395 min-1 for propylene glycol, 0.475 min-1 for polyethylene glycol 4000, 0.0558 min-1 for ethanol, and 0.0752 min-1 for the control. The rate of disappearance from the gut is significantly slower than control for 20% glycerol, PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 solutions (p less than or equal to 0.01). Activity disappears more rapidly from 10% ethanol solutions than from PEG 6000 and glycerol (p = 0.01). Water flux into and out of the intestinal lumen was estimated from tritiated inulin concentrations in the perfusate. A trend for increased loss of activity from ethanol and control solutions associated with net water efflux from the intestine was observed. These results suggest that the composition of drug delivery systems may significantly affect the absorption of drugs from solution.", "PMID": 432441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1088", "title": "[Segmental venous replacemnet with heterologous graft (author's transl)].", "content": "Results of animal experiments are presented on the applicability in the low pressure system of a collagen prosthesis, which has been used successfully, for considerable time, in the arterial replacement in patients and dogs. Grafts of up to 7 cm in length were implanted into the suprarenal segment of the inferior vena cava (v. cava caudalis) in dogs and observed clinically over a period of more than 500 days. Histological investigations were made. With some limitations the results obtained are considered as good and point towards the applicability of the examined graft material in the low pressure system.", "contents": "[Segmental venous replacemnet with heterologous graft (author's transl)]. Results of animal experiments are presented on the applicability in the low pressure system of a collagen prosthesis, which has been used successfully, for considerable time, in the arterial replacement in patients and dogs. Grafts of up to 7 cm in length were implanted into the suprarenal segment of the inferior vena cava (v. cava caudalis) in dogs and observed clinically over a period of more than 500 days. Histological investigations were made. With some limitations the results obtained are considered as good and point towards the applicability of the examined graft material in the low pressure system.", "PMID": 432442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1089", "title": "Morphological and biochemical changes in striated muscle after experimental tourniquet ischaemia.", "content": "Histological and biochemical changes were studied in the striated muscle following total tourniquet ischaemia between one and four h, the reflow time being 30 min and 24 h. Electronmicroscopy was applied to study the fine structure of the muscle after 24 h reflow. In light microscopy ischaemic changes were not seen even when the tourniquet time was extended to four h. When a four-h ischaemia was followed by a 24-h recovery period, the electron microscopy showed a variety of minor mitochondrial changes such as condensed and slightly dilatated mitochondria. The SDH activities did not vary significantly between the experimental and control samples even after a four-h ischaemia followed by 30 min or 24h reflow. The differences between the experimental and control samples were, however, highly significant in the LDH values in the groups where ischaemia had lasted for three and four h. The results indicate that tourniquet ischaemia for two to three h does not significantly affect the striated muscle of a rabbit and the alterations even after a four-h ischaemia seem to be partly reversible.", "contents": "Morphological and biochemical changes in striated muscle after experimental tourniquet ischaemia. Histological and biochemical changes were studied in the striated muscle following total tourniquet ischaemia between one and four h, the reflow time being 30 min and 24 h. Electronmicroscopy was applied to study the fine structure of the muscle after 24 h reflow. In light microscopy ischaemic changes were not seen even when the tourniquet time was extended to four h. When a four-h ischaemia was followed by a 24-h recovery period, the electron microscopy showed a variety of minor mitochondrial changes such as condensed and slightly dilatated mitochondria. The SDH activities did not vary significantly between the experimental and control samples even after a four-h ischaemia followed by 30 min or 24h reflow. The differences between the experimental and control samples were, however, highly significant in the LDH values in the groups where ischaemia had lasted for three and four h. The results indicate that tourniquet ischaemia for two to three h does not significantly affect the striated muscle of a rabbit and the alterations even after a four-h ischaemia seem to be partly reversible.", "PMID": 432443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1090", "title": "The role of upper airways and of sensoric receptors on reflex bronchoconstriction.", "content": "The influence of bilateral transection of the nervi laryngici cranialis, laryngici caudalis and glossopharyngici on ACH and allergen-induced bronchoconstriction was tested in 15 dogs. In three dogs the free preparation of bilateral nervi laryngici cranialis was performed for control measurements. Partial transection of pulmonary left nervus vagus was performed in three dogs and compared to radical transection of the same nerve in three animals. Transection of the nervi laryngici cranialis as well as of the nervi glossopharyngici was followed by the inhibition of the allergen-induced bronchoconstriction. The bronchoconstriction following ACH challenge was not influenced by transection. Bronchoconstriction induced by allergen returned to the same values within three weeks after surgical intervention. Partial unilateral dissection of the vagus nerve on lung hilus shows a small decrease in bronchial constriction induced by allergen and by ACH. Complete unilateral dissection of the vagus nerve on the lung hilus reduced the bronchial constrictoric response to both substances significantly.", "contents": "The role of upper airways and of sensoric receptors on reflex bronchoconstriction. The influence of bilateral transection of the nervi laryngici cranialis, laryngici caudalis and glossopharyngici on ACH and allergen-induced bronchoconstriction was tested in 15 dogs. In three dogs the free preparation of bilateral nervi laryngici cranialis was performed for control measurements. Partial transection of pulmonary left nervus vagus was performed in three dogs and compared to radical transection of the same nerve in three animals. Transection of the nervi laryngici cranialis as well as of the nervi glossopharyngici was followed by the inhibition of the allergen-induced bronchoconstriction. The bronchoconstriction following ACH challenge was not influenced by transection. Bronchoconstriction induced by allergen returned to the same values within three weeks after surgical intervention. Partial unilateral dissection of the vagus nerve on lung hilus shows a small decrease in bronchial constriction induced by allergen and by ACH. Complete unilateral dissection of the vagus nerve on the lung hilus reduced the bronchial constrictoric response to both substances significantly.", "PMID": 432444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1091", "title": "The use of a programmable pocket calculator in clinical dietetics.", "content": "The application of programmable pocket calculators to clinical dietetics is described. The development of programs for the HP-67 and 97 for the evaluation of nutritional intakes of patients with obesity, renal disease, etc. and for the calculation and interpretation of food intakes in nutritional surveys is given in detail. The calculators simplify the practical work, shorten the calculation time substantially and allow direct incorporation of newly published data into analysis.", "contents": "The use of a programmable pocket calculator in clinical dietetics. The application of programmable pocket calculators to clinical dietetics is described. The development of programs for the HP-67 and 97 for the evaluation of nutritional intakes of patients with obesity, renal disease, etc. and for the calculation and interpretation of food intakes in nutritional surveys is given in detail. The calculators simplify the practical work, shorten the calculation time substantially and allow direct incorporation of newly published data into analysis.", "PMID": 432445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1092", "title": "[Effect of urethane and penthobarbital on the behaviour of the renin-angiotensin-system in rat (author's transl)].", "content": "The behaviour of the renin-angiotensin-system was investigated after urethane and penthobarbital anaesthesia in rats. The recent results support the early observation that urethane increases the plasma-renin-activity and the haematocrit. It was further shown that urethane in the customary anaesthetic dose causes hypoproteinaemia and a decrease in the pressor response to angiotensin and in renin substrate concentration. Based on these results, its use as an anaesthetic in experiments connected with the renin-angiotensin-system does not appear to be appropriate.", "contents": "[Effect of urethane and penthobarbital on the behaviour of the renin-angiotensin-system in rat (author's transl)]. The behaviour of the renin-angiotensin-system was investigated after urethane and penthobarbital anaesthesia in rats. The recent results support the early observation that urethane increases the plasma-renin-activity and the haematocrit. It was further shown that urethane in the customary anaesthetic dose causes hypoproteinaemia and a decrease in the pressor response to angiotensin and in renin substrate concentration. Based on these results, its use as an anaesthetic in experiments connected with the renin-angiotensin-system does not appear to be appropriate.", "PMID": 432446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1093", "title": "Measurement of velocity of air flow in the sinus maxillaris.", "content": "Anemometry with the hot wire and hot film technique previously described, enables the rhinologist to record slow and rapidly changing air flow in the maxillary sinus. The advantages and disadvantages of this method are considered. Anemometry together with manometry may be designated sinumetry and used as a diagnostic procedure following sinuscopy in chronic maxillary sinus disease. The value of the function from velocity of time allows the estimation of flow-volume in the sinus. Furthermore, the method is useful to evaluate the optimal therapy to restore ventilation in the case of an obstructed ostium demonstrated before and after surgical opening in the inferior meatus.", "contents": "Measurement of velocity of air flow in the sinus maxillaris. Anemometry with the hot wire and hot film technique previously described, enables the rhinologist to record slow and rapidly changing air flow in the maxillary sinus. The advantages and disadvantages of this method are considered. Anemometry together with manometry may be designated sinumetry and used as a diagnostic procedure following sinuscopy in chronic maxillary sinus disease. The value of the function from velocity of time allows the estimation of flow-volume in the sinus. Furthermore, the method is useful to evaluate the optimal therapy to restore ventilation in the case of an obstructed ostium demonstrated before and after surgical opening in the inferior meatus.", "PMID": 432471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1094", "title": "Relationship between nasal obstruction and pulmonary ventilation in laryngectomized patients.", "content": "Respiratory gases (Po2 and Pco2) in arterial blood were determined in 19 laryngectomized patients (47 to 77 years of age) following nasal obstruction. Po2 values were somewhat elevated, but the difference was statistically insignificant, while Pco2 value remained the same. These results to a certain extent correlate with the findings of Cave et al. on dogs, but with a minor correction which we explain by the effect of the second reflex arch of the trigeminal--phrenic and intercostal nerves. Respiration (rate, tidal volume and minute volume) was also tested and the results agreed with the findings of respiratory gases.", "contents": "Relationship between nasal obstruction and pulmonary ventilation in laryngectomized patients. Respiratory gases (Po2 and Pco2) in arterial blood were determined in 19 laryngectomized patients (47 to 77 years of age) following nasal obstruction. Po2 values were somewhat elevated, but the difference was statistically insignificant, while Pco2 value remained the same. These results to a certain extent correlate with the findings of Cave et al. on dogs, but with a minor correction which we explain by the effect of the second reflex arch of the trigeminal--phrenic and intercostal nerves. Respiration (rate, tidal volume and minute volume) was also tested and the results agreed with the findings of respiratory gases.", "PMID": 432472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1095", "title": "133Xenon washout in the paranasal sinuses--a diagnostic tool for assessing ostial function.", "content": "A 133Xenon washout test is presented and interpreted. It was developed on the basis of studies into the accumulation of aerosols of different makes (lithium chloride in the form of ultrasonic, vibratory and pressurized aerosols) in the paranasal sinuses and sequential scintigraphy with radioactively labeled aerosols (99m Technetium colloidal sulfur) and is designed to shed light on the gas exchange in the paranasal sinuses and the patency of their orifices. The test constitutes a valuable addition to the battery of diagnostic tools for assessing paranasal sinus function and, at the same time, documents the true value of aerosol therapy.", "contents": "133Xenon washout in the paranasal sinuses--a diagnostic tool for assessing ostial function. A 133Xenon washout test is presented and interpreted. It was developed on the basis of studies into the accumulation of aerosols of different makes (lithium chloride in the form of ultrasonic, vibratory and pressurized aerosols) in the paranasal sinuses and sequential scintigraphy with radioactively labeled aerosols (99m Technetium colloidal sulfur) and is designed to shed light on the gas exchange in the paranasal sinuses and the patency of their orifices. The test constitutes a valuable addition to the battery of diagnostic tools for assessing paranasal sinus function and, at the same time, documents the true value of aerosol therapy.", "PMID": 432473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1096", "title": "Ostium resistance in acute maxillary and frontal sinusitis.", "content": "Ostium function tests were performed in 18 normal maxillary and 6 normal frontal sinuses. Further 57 patients with acute maxillary and 16 patients with acute frontal sinusitis were followed using sinumanometry until resolution of infection occured. After initial obstruction of the ostium, resistance decreased exponentially until complete decongestion. Respiratory pressure changes in the sinus during forced nasal breathing are a positive sign for healing of sinusitis. The amplitude of these fluctuations should be documented during each lavage and facilitates indication for drainage procedures.", "contents": "Ostium resistance in acute maxillary and frontal sinusitis. Ostium function tests were performed in 18 normal maxillary and 6 normal frontal sinuses. Further 57 patients with acute maxillary and 16 patients with acute frontal sinusitis were followed using sinumanometry until resolution of infection occured. After initial obstruction of the ostium, resistance decreased exponentially until complete decongestion. Respiratory pressure changes in the sinus during forced nasal breathing are a positive sign for healing of sinusitis. The amplitude of these fluctuations should be documented during each lavage and facilitates indication for drainage procedures.", "PMID": 432475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1097", "title": "[Phantom substances for the simulation of tissue of the soft parts in ultrasonic diagnostics (author's transl)].", "content": "The image-transmitting methods using ultrasound are gaining ground in medicine and are being increasingly used alongside the methods of diagnosis based on x-ray film. Whereas the use of phantoms for purposes of measurement and instruction has been common for a long time, there have so far been hardly any suitable phantoms for ultrasound. One of the reasons for this state of affairs is that only very little is known about the materials which are suitable for the simulation of body tissue. Among the physical factors which are important in ultrasonic examination are; the speed of sound, sound impedance, and the sound attenuation coefficient. The article reports on methods for selecting suitable phantom materials, and on measurements at an ultrasonic frequency of 4 MHz.", "contents": "[Phantom substances for the simulation of tissue of the soft parts in ultrasonic diagnostics (author's transl)]. The image-transmitting methods using ultrasound are gaining ground in medicine and are being increasingly used alongside the methods of diagnosis based on x-ray film. Whereas the use of phantoms for purposes of measurement and instruction has been common for a long time, there have so far been hardly any suitable phantoms for ultrasound. One of the reasons for this state of affairs is that only very little is known about the materials which are suitable for the simulation of body tissue. Among the physical factors which are important in ultrasonic examination are; the speed of sound, sound impedance, and the sound attenuation coefficient. The article reports on methods for selecting suitable phantom materials, and on measurements at an ultrasonic frequency of 4 MHz.", "PMID": 432482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1098", "title": "[Examinations of rare-earth film-screen-systems for image detectors in mammography (author's transl)].", "content": "Intensifying screens based on Gd2 O2 S : Tb were analysed for x-ray exposure reduction and resolution using in mammorgraphy. The contrast of these screens coupled with a single emulsion film was tested and the density dominante was determined. A resolution grid on this density exposured shows the detail resolution and judge the quality profile of these new film-screen-combinations. To all factors was compared a non-screen industrial film for long time processing. The application of Gadolinium intensifying screens in mammography allowed an exposure reduction of 75% at the same image quality like a nonscreen industrial film.", "contents": "[Examinations of rare-earth film-screen-systems for image detectors in mammography (author's transl)]. Intensifying screens based on Gd2 O2 S : Tb were analysed for x-ray exposure reduction and resolution using in mammorgraphy. The contrast of these screens coupled with a single emulsion film was tested and the density dominante was determined. A resolution grid on this density exposured shows the detail resolution and judge the quality profile of these new film-screen-combinations. To all factors was compared a non-screen industrial film for long time processing. The application of Gadolinium intensifying screens in mammography allowed an exposure reduction of 75% at the same image quality like a nonscreen industrial film.", "PMID": 432483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1099", "title": "[Roentgen findings in the full-size abdominal radiograph in occlusion syndromes at the visceral aortic branches (author's transl)].", "content": "The acute visceral ischaemia syndrome (which, in typical cases, is caused by embolism or thrombosis of the arteria mesenterica cranialis or, in some cases, by a functional reduction of flow in that vascular area), is usually assigned to the roentgenologist under the heading \"acute abdomen\" for effecting an abdominal fullsize radiograph. Although this does not allow safe diagnosis and differential diagnosis, it does provide valuable pointers in quite a number of cases. One of the most specific symptoms is the so-called flexure cut-off symptom consisting of a pronounced accumulation of gas (wind) from the caecum to the left flexure. a typical case and one each similar case in a chronic visceral triple occlusion and a polycythaemia, are demonstrated. The mandatory diagnostic consequence of this symptom is immediate aorto-arteriography unless a functional cause is evident and can be successfully treated by conservative measures.", "contents": "[Roentgen findings in the full-size abdominal radiograph in occlusion syndromes at the visceral aortic branches (author's transl)]. The acute visceral ischaemia syndrome (which, in typical cases, is caused by embolism or thrombosis of the arteria mesenterica cranialis or, in some cases, by a functional reduction of flow in that vascular area), is usually assigned to the roentgenologist under the heading \"acute abdomen\" for effecting an abdominal fullsize radiograph. Although this does not allow safe diagnosis and differential diagnosis, it does provide valuable pointers in quite a number of cases. One of the most specific symptoms is the so-called flexure cut-off symptom consisting of a pronounced accumulation of gas (wind) from the caecum to the left flexure. a typical case and one each similar case in a chronic visceral triple occlusion and a polycythaemia, are demonstrated. The mandatory diagnostic consequence of this symptom is immediate aorto-arteriography unless a functional cause is evident and can be successfully treated by conservative measures.", "PMID": 432484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1100", "title": "[Explatory roentgen examination of the anal canal (author's transl)].", "content": "Endoscopy is supplemented by a roentgenographic exploration of the anal canal via single and double-contrast methods, as part of routine irrigoscopy. A brief description is given of the technique employed in the examination of 256 patients. Normal roentgen anatomy is described in detail, followed by a definition of the different stages according to the degree of blood filling.", "contents": "[Explatory roentgen examination of the anal canal (author's transl)]. Endoscopy is supplemented by a roentgenographic exploration of the anal canal via single and double-contrast methods, as part of routine irrigoscopy. A brief description is given of the technique employed in the examination of 256 patients. Normal roentgen anatomy is described in detail, followed by a definition of the different stages according to the degree of blood filling.", "PMID": 432485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1101", "title": "[Exceptional diabetic arthropathy of the foot (author's transl)].", "content": "The osteopathy of the foot is a rare complication of diabetes mellitus. It is seen in the distal parts mostly. The arthropathy (\"Charcot-joint\") is even more rare, and is regularly combined with a neuropathy. The roentgen signs of the \"diabetic foot\" are demonstrated, as there are osteoporosis, iuxta-articular cortical defects, osteolysis of the bone ends, bone destruction and reconstruction, periost reaction and sklerosis of the bone shafts.", "contents": "[Exceptional diabetic arthropathy of the foot (author's transl)]. The osteopathy of the foot is a rare complication of diabetes mellitus. It is seen in the distal parts mostly. The arthropathy (\"Charcot-joint\") is even more rare, and is regularly combined with a neuropathy. The roentgen signs of the \"diabetic foot\" are demonstrated, as there are osteoporosis, iuxta-articular cortical defects, osteolysis of the bone ends, bone destruction and reconstruction, periost reaction and sklerosis of the bone shafts.", "PMID": 432486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1102", "title": "[Angiography of the femoral artery with metrizamide without narcosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Metrizamide (Amipaque) is a new, non-dissociating contrast medium enabling completely painless angiographic examination of the arteries of the lower extremities. The contrast and visualisation--even of small vessels--are of the same standard as that of the angiographies effected with Amidotrizoat (Angiografin). Since general anaesthesia has been eliminated, the indication for angiography of the femoral artery can be broadened in the case of risk and emergency patients.", "contents": "[Angiography of the femoral artery with metrizamide without narcosis (author's transl)]. Metrizamide (Amipaque) is a new, non-dissociating contrast medium enabling completely painless angiographic examination of the arteries of the lower extremities. The contrast and visualisation--even of small vessels--are of the same standard as that of the angiographies effected with Amidotrizoat (Angiografin). Since general anaesthesia has been eliminated, the indication for angiography of the femoral artery can be broadened in the case of risk and emergency patients.", "PMID": 432487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1103", "title": "Transient right bundle branch block during His bundle electrogram in a case with ventricular parasystole.", "content": "A case with ventricular parasystole and transient right bundle branch block during His bundle electrogram is reported. Although on surface electrocardiogram no preexisting atrioventricular (A--V) conduction disturbances could be noted, His bundle electrogram showed latent infrahisian conduction changes. This suggests a susceptibility for induced right bundle branch block during right heart catheterization and may take part in the mechanism of the ventricular ectopic activity of the patient.", "contents": "Transient right bundle branch block during His bundle electrogram in a case with ventricular parasystole. A case with ventricular parasystole and transient right bundle branch block during His bundle electrogram is reported. Although on surface electrocardiogram no preexisting atrioventricular (A--V) conduction disturbances could be noted, His bundle electrogram showed latent infrahisian conduction changes. This suggests a susceptibility for induced right bundle branch block during right heart catheterization and may take part in the mechanism of the ventricular ectopic activity of the patient.", "PMID": 432503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1104", "title": "The logical structure of electrocardiographic diagnosis.", "content": "The description of a mathematical model of structure of electrocardiographic (ECG) diagnosis is given, starting from the automatically measurable characteristics of bioelectrical currents generated in the course of cardiac activity. The \"dynamic diagnosis\", established for rhythm and for atrioventricular conduction disturbances--by analysis in real time of the periodicity of electrical phenomena--is differentiated from the \"static diagnosis\", established for the other situations--by the logical intersection of amplitude conditions with duration of the waves belonging to a given ECG lead. Likewise, mathematical rationale separates atrial from infraatrial electrical activity.", "contents": "The logical structure of electrocardiographic diagnosis. The description of a mathematical model of structure of electrocardiographic (ECG) diagnosis is given, starting from the automatically measurable characteristics of bioelectrical currents generated in the course of cardiac activity. The \"dynamic diagnosis\", established for rhythm and for atrioventricular conduction disturbances--by analysis in real time of the periodicity of electrical phenomena--is differentiated from the \"static diagnosis\", established for the other situations--by the logical intersection of amplitude conditions with duration of the waves belonging to a given ECG lead. Likewise, mathematical rationale separates atrial from infraatrial electrical activity.", "PMID": 432504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1105", "title": "Echocardiography in ischemic heart disease.", "content": "The kinetics and dimensions of the septum and left posterior ventricular wall as well as left ventricular performance were investigated by echocardiography in 50 patients with painful ischemic heart disease. In 10 cases hypokinesia and low left ventricular performance were found, more marked in those with a history of angina pectoris and myocardial infarction. The utility of this technique for exploring myocardial contractility and its limits is discussed.", "contents": "Echocardiography in ischemic heart disease. The kinetics and dimensions of the septum and left posterior ventricular wall as well as left ventricular performance were investigated by echocardiography in 50 patients with painful ischemic heart disease. In 10 cases hypokinesia and low left ventricular performance were found, more marked in those with a history of angina pectoris and myocardial infarction. The utility of this technique for exploring myocardial contractility and its limits is discussed.", "PMID": 432505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1106", "title": "Concentration of serum immunoglobulins in acute and chronic hepatic diseases. I. Serum-levels of IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD in young patients with viral hepatitis.", "content": "Concentrations of IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD were measured against WHO Reference Preparation 67/97 and British Standard 67/37 in sera from 105 patients with viral hepatitis and 110 \"current\" controls. To allow comparison at different ages and between sexes, constants previously determined on sera from a large \"laboratory\" group of controls were used to calculate \"scores\" for all Ig values. The patients' IgM scores were remarkably higher than those of controls and were bimodally distributed. About 68% of the patients had IgM scores more than 2 SD above the expected mean for laboratory controls. The distribution of IgG and IgA scores appeared unimodal, but schifted to the right of controls. The mean values of IgG and IgA scores were significantly greater in patients than in controls, and in female patients compared with males. Moreover, 16% (12 of 73) of the male and 47% (15 of 32) of the female patients had Ig G scores more than 2 SD above the expected mean. With regard to IgD, no significant difference between patients and controls was observed.", "contents": "Concentration of serum immunoglobulins in acute and chronic hepatic diseases. I. Serum-levels of IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD in young patients with viral hepatitis. Concentrations of IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD were measured against WHO Reference Preparation 67/97 and British Standard 67/37 in sera from 105 patients with viral hepatitis and 110 \"current\" controls. To allow comparison at different ages and between sexes, constants previously determined on sera from a large \"laboratory\" group of controls were used to calculate \"scores\" for all Ig values. The patients' IgM scores were remarkably higher than those of controls and were bimodally distributed. About 68% of the patients had IgM scores more than 2 SD above the expected mean for laboratory controls. The distribution of IgG and IgA scores appeared unimodal, but schifted to the right of controls. The mean values of IgG and IgA scores were significantly greater in patients than in controls, and in female patients compared with males. Moreover, 16% (12 of 73) of the male and 47% (15 of 32) of the female patients had Ig G scores more than 2 SD above the expected mean. With regard to IgD, no significant difference between patients and controls was observed.", "PMID": 432506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1107", "title": "[Bone necrosis during osteomalacias].", "content": "On the basis of 3 personal cases, the authors study the characteristics of osteonecroses during osteomalacias. They compare their findings to those in the literature. Clinically, the location at the femoral head is predominant, with absence of pain and functional tolerance often noted. On the radiological level, the demineralization of the skeleton is not constant, and there are few Looser-Milkman striae. In the lower limbs the necrosis is always located in the supporting areas, showing a restricted surface with little or no perinecrotic condensation and an absence of bone sequestrum. The cartilage remains intact for long periods. A pathogenic interpretation is proposed: the increasingly fragile state of the bones causes a subchondral fatigue fracture. The malacia bone thus adapts itself to the mechanical constraints thus imposed on it.", "contents": "[Bone necrosis during osteomalacias]. On the basis of 3 personal cases, the authors study the characteristics of osteonecroses during osteomalacias. They compare their findings to those in the literature. Clinically, the location at the femoral head is predominant, with absence of pain and functional tolerance often noted. On the radiological level, the demineralization of the skeleton is not constant, and there are few Looser-Milkman striae. In the lower limbs the necrosis is always located in the supporting areas, showing a restricted surface with little or no perinecrotic condensation and an absence of bone sequestrum. The cartilage remains intact for long periods. A pathogenic interpretation is proposed: the increasingly fragile state of the bones causes a subchondral fatigue fracture. The malacia bone thus adapts itself to the mechanical constraints thus imposed on it.", "PMID": 432511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1108", "title": "Concentration of serum immunoglobulins in acute and chronic hepatic diseases. II. Viral hepatitis; time-dependent changes in immunoglobulin concentration.", "content": "Immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations were determined on blood samples drawn of 6 occasions over a 2-month period from 38 young patients with viral hepatitis. The main and joint effects of sex and day factors on mean Ig levels were studied by using a 2-way ANOVA model. No distinct pattern of variation was observed for IgA, IgG and IgD, whereas the mean values of IgM showed a statistically significant variation throughout the study period. Female patients had significantly higher mean Ig values than males; for each Ig-class, however, the day-to-day variation was very similar in the two sexes, as reflected by an unsignificant sex-day interaction. The results suggest that serial measurements of IgM levels can be useful for identifying those patients at risk of developing chronic hepatitis and for an early detection of viral hepatitis in persons at very high risk of contracting this disease.", "contents": "Concentration of serum immunoglobulins in acute and chronic hepatic diseases. II. Viral hepatitis; time-dependent changes in immunoglobulin concentration. Immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations were determined on blood samples drawn of 6 occasions over a 2-month period from 38 young patients with viral hepatitis. The main and joint effects of sex and day factors on mean Ig levels were studied by using a 2-way ANOVA model. No distinct pattern of variation was observed for IgA, IgG and IgD, whereas the mean values of IgM showed a statistically significant variation throughout the study period. Female patients had significantly higher mean Ig values than males; for each Ig-class, however, the day-to-day variation was very similar in the two sexes, as reflected by an unsignificant sex-day interaction. The results suggest that serial measurements of IgM levels can be useful for identifying those patients at risk of developing chronic hepatitis and for an early detection of viral hepatitis in persons at very high risk of contracting this disease.", "PMID": 432507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1109", "title": "[Partial decalcifying algodystrophy].", "content": "Partial decalcifying algodystrophy (PDA) appears in two forms: one, a radial form, affects, following a certain metameric topography, one or two radiuses of the hand or of the foot (two cases reported); the other, a zonal form, is more peculiar: only part of a condyle or of the femoral head, are demineralized for two to three months. The authors report 7 cases of this misleading zonal form, 2 of them after histological verification. The image leads to various diagnostic errors: osteitis or infectious osteo-arthritis, acute inflammation close to the bone, and especially malignant processes. However, zonal PDA has its own characteristics: demineralization, that becomes clear only during the second month, and quickly extends over a rather long sub chondral bone surface. Tomography is very useful: it demonstrates better the severe sub chondral osteoporosis and the retention of the bone sole, which becomes detached from the bone. Scintigraphy shows the massive localized or panregional hyperfixation and sometimes other infraradiological sites (hips, knee or ankle). Zonal osteoporosis remains partial and misleading for only 2 or 3 months, after which it becomes a classical panregional form. The rate of development is that of DA. Painful impotence quickly increases, with cure in 6 months.", "contents": "[Partial decalcifying algodystrophy]. Partial decalcifying algodystrophy (PDA) appears in two forms: one, a radial form, affects, following a certain metameric topography, one or two radiuses of the hand or of the foot (two cases reported); the other, a zonal form, is more peculiar: only part of a condyle or of the femoral head, are demineralized for two to three months. The authors report 7 cases of this misleading zonal form, 2 of them after histological verification. The image leads to various diagnostic errors: osteitis or infectious osteo-arthritis, acute inflammation close to the bone, and especially malignant processes. However, zonal PDA has its own characteristics: demineralization, that becomes clear only during the second month, and quickly extends over a rather long sub chondral bone surface. Tomography is very useful: it demonstrates better the severe sub chondral osteoporosis and the retention of the bone sole, which becomes detached from the bone. Scintigraphy shows the massive localized or panregional hyperfixation and sometimes other infraradiological sites (hips, knee or ankle). Zonal osteoporosis remains partial and misleading for only 2 or 3 months, after which it becomes a classical panregional form. The rate of development is that of DA. Painful impotence quickly increases, with cure in 6 months.", "PMID": 432512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1110", "title": "Long-term effect of radiotherapy on the lymphocyte lysosomal enzymes and serum immunoglobulins in patients with cancer of the larynx.", "content": "Thirty male patients ranging in age from 40 to 70 years, investigated 6--9 years after radiotherapy for cancer of the larynx, showed various alterations of the lysosomal apparatus of peripheral blood lymphocytes. These changes, consisting of diffusion of the lysosomal enzymes within the cytoplasm and disappearance of normal lysosomal granules, were related to a greater extent to the beta-glucuronidase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase positive-lysosomes than to the acid phosphatase-positive ones. Determination of the enzymatic activities was achieved by cytochemical techniques. The increased immunological reactivity of the patients was reflected in the frequently elevated immunoglobulin levels, particularly that of IgA, in the serum and an increase of the enzyme-positive lymphocyte count in the blood.", "contents": "Long-term effect of radiotherapy on the lymphocyte lysosomal enzymes and serum immunoglobulins in patients with cancer of the larynx. Thirty male patients ranging in age from 40 to 70 years, investigated 6--9 years after radiotherapy for cancer of the larynx, showed various alterations of the lysosomal apparatus of peripheral blood lymphocytes. These changes, consisting of diffusion of the lysosomal enzymes within the cytoplasm and disappearance of normal lysosomal granules, were related to a greater extent to the beta-glucuronidase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase positive-lysosomes than to the acid phosphatase-positive ones. Determination of the enzymatic activities was achieved by cytochemical techniques. The increased immunological reactivity of the patients was reflected in the frequently elevated immunoglobulin levels, particularly that of IgA, in the serum and an increase of the enzyme-positive lymphocyte count in the blood.", "PMID": 432509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1111", "title": "Beneficial and adverse effects of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "The action of atropine on heart rate, prevention of arrhythmias, electrical activity and heart contractility was studied in 35 patients with acute myocardial infarction. Atropine had a favourable effect in 24 out of 27 patients with sinus bradycardia, and hypotension present in some cases was improved. Ventricular extrasystoles observed in 12 patients were suppressed within one hour after atropine administration. A--V block was well influenced in 9 of 16 cases. Nine patients with A--V block, of whom 8 with pump failure, presented arrhythmias after atropine. In 12 patients atropine determined a transient enhancing of the ST segment elevation, caused a persistent increase of the Q wave and altered the systolic time intervals by reducing contractility, with subsequent partial return to initial values. The data obtained justify the use of atropine for the improvement of sinus bradycardia, of arterial hypotension and of A--V block. During the effect of the drug there occurred electrical and contractility changes and, in some patients with pump failure, arrhythmias appeared. These observations demonstrate the necessity of monitoring the patients under atropine treatment and of using small doses, repeated if necessary.", "contents": "Beneficial and adverse effects of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The action of atropine on heart rate, prevention of arrhythmias, electrical activity and heart contractility was studied in 35 patients with acute myocardial infarction. Atropine had a favourable effect in 24 out of 27 patients with sinus bradycardia, and hypotension present in some cases was improved. Ventricular extrasystoles observed in 12 patients were suppressed within one hour after atropine administration. A--V block was well influenced in 9 of 16 cases. Nine patients with A--V block, of whom 8 with pump failure, presented arrhythmias after atropine. In 12 patients atropine determined a transient enhancing of the ST segment elevation, caused a persistent increase of the Q wave and altered the systolic time intervals by reducing contractility, with subsequent partial return to initial values. The data obtained justify the use of atropine for the improvement of sinus bradycardia, of arterial hypotension and of A--V block. During the effect of the drug there occurred electrical and contractility changes and, in some patients with pump failure, arrhythmias appeared. These observations demonstrate the necessity of monitoring the patients under atropine treatment and of using small doses, repeated if necessary.", "PMID": 432510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1112", "title": "[Multiple myeloma of bones. Retrospective study of prognostic factors based on a series of 243 patients].", "content": "The authors have made a retrospective study of 243 cases of multiple myelomas, most of them treated with alkylating agents. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 65 years (+ 10). The ratio of the sexes was 1 : 1. Seventy two per cent of the patients had a bone rating of 2 or 3 according to the criteria of Durie and Salmon. Fifty-eight per cent of the patients were anemic (Hg 12 g per cent), with less than 15 per cent being leucopenic or thrombopenic. Hypercalcemia (105 mg 0/00) was noted in 27 per cent of cases. The distribution of immunochemical types is as follows : IgG, 51.5 per cent; IgA, 28 per cent; pure Bence Jones, 20.5 per cent. The respective percentages of kappa and lambda light chains were 64.2 per cent and 35.8 per cent. In this series, nearly 80 per cent of the patients were at phase III according to the classification of Durie and Salmon, and 30.8 per cent at phase B. The median survival, including all phases, increased from 8 months without alkylating agent, to 20 months with melphalan and/or cyclophosphamide. The factors influencing the survival of the patients treated were age, the hemoglobin level, calcemia, renal deficiencies, the immunochemical type, the stage of the disease, and the response to alkylating treatment. The value of these different prognostic factors is discussed.", "contents": "[Multiple myeloma of bones. Retrospective study of prognostic factors based on a series of 243 patients]. The authors have made a retrospective study of 243 cases of multiple myelomas, most of them treated with alkylating agents. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 65 years (+ 10). The ratio of the sexes was 1 : 1. Seventy two per cent of the patients had a bone rating of 2 or 3 according to the criteria of Durie and Salmon. Fifty-eight per cent of the patients were anemic (Hg 12 g per cent), with less than 15 per cent being leucopenic or thrombopenic. Hypercalcemia (105 mg 0/00) was noted in 27 per cent of cases. The distribution of immunochemical types is as follows : IgG, 51.5 per cent; IgA, 28 per cent; pure Bence Jones, 20.5 per cent. The respective percentages of kappa and lambda light chains were 64.2 per cent and 35.8 per cent. In this series, nearly 80 per cent of the patients were at phase III according to the classification of Durie and Salmon, and 30.8 per cent at phase B. The median survival, including all phases, increased from 8 months without alkylating agent, to 20 months with melphalan and/or cyclophosphamide. The factors influencing the survival of the patients treated were age, the hemoglobin level, calcemia, renal deficiencies, the immunochemical type, the stage of the disease, and the response to alkylating treatment. The value of these different prognostic factors is discussed.", "PMID": 432517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1113", "title": "[Results and long-term risks of immuno-suppressive treatment in chronic juvenile arthritis. Apropos of 40 cases].", "content": "In 40 children suffering from a form of chronic juvenile arthritis (CJA), the authors found encouraging results after immuno-suppressive treatment. Indeed, major corticotherapy, often necessary in these forms, could be stopped in nearly half the cases. The immediate improvement in the clinical signs of the disease was very clear and the signs of corticoid intoxication regressed, and in particular growth was normally resumed in many of the children. While the immediate infectious and hematologic consequences are generally benign, the occurrence of malignant hemopathies at a distance, seen in 3 cases, mean that use of this type of therapy should be totally reconsidered during CJA. The authors feel that because of this grave oncogenic risk, the immunosuppressive treatments should not be reserved merely for forms that involves the vital prognosis in the more or less short run.", "contents": "[Results and long-term risks of immuno-suppressive treatment in chronic juvenile arthritis. Apropos of 40 cases]. In 40 children suffering from a form of chronic juvenile arthritis (CJA), the authors found encouraging results after immuno-suppressive treatment. Indeed, major corticotherapy, often necessary in these forms, could be stopped in nearly half the cases. The immediate improvement in the clinical signs of the disease was very clear and the signs of corticoid intoxication regressed, and in particular growth was normally resumed in many of the children. While the immediate infectious and hematologic consequences are generally benign, the occurrence of malignant hemopathies at a distance, seen in 3 cases, mean that use of this type of therapy should be totally reconsidered during CJA. The authors feel that because of this grave oncogenic risk, the immunosuppressive treatments should not be reserved merely for forms that involves the vital prognosis in the more or less short run.", "PMID": 432518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1114", "title": "[Bone histomorphometry and osteo-articular manifestations of idiopathic hemochromatosis].", "content": "An histomorphometric study of the bones was done on 28 patients suffering from an idiopathic hemochromatosis. There was a normocalcinemic hyperparathyroidism in half the cases. It appeared to be closely linked to hypersideremia and to be responsible for the sub-chondral arthropathy. The other lesions demonstrated were an osteoporous one, whose relations with hypogonadism was shown, and osteoidosis variations, which most often decreased rather than increased, and whose causes still seem uncertain.", "contents": "[Bone histomorphometry and osteo-articular manifestations of idiopathic hemochromatosis]. An histomorphometric study of the bones was done on 28 patients suffering from an idiopathic hemochromatosis. There was a normocalcinemic hyperparathyroidism in half the cases. It appeared to be closely linked to hypersideremia and to be responsible for the sub-chondral arthropathy. The other lesions demonstrated were an osteoporous one, whose relations with hypogonadism was shown, and osteoidosis variations, which most often decreased rather than increased, and whose causes still seem uncertain.", "PMID": 432519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1115", "title": "Gastric morphology, function, and immunology in first-degree relatives of probands with pernicious anemia and controls.", "content": "Gastric morphology, function, and immunology was studied in 68 patients with pernicious anemia (PA), 183 of their first-degree relatives, and 354 control subjects. The PA relatives and controls were comparable in age and sex distribution. In both groups, mean gastric acid output decreased and mean fasting serum gastrin levels and the prevalence of atrophic gastritis increased with age. The total prevalence of chronic gastritis was similar in the two groups, but severe atrophic gastritis of the body of the stomach (AGB), achlorhydria, parietal cell antibodies, and a raised fasting serum gastrin level were significantly more common in PA relatives than in controls. Of the PA relatives 23 had severe AGB which was indistinguishable from the gastric mucosal lesion found in PA probands and was, as a rule, accompanied by several other characteristics of type A gastritis. These included a normal antrum (78%), slight or absent inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa (70%), achlorhydria (91%), high fasting serum gastrin level (83%), parietal cell antibodies (65%), and intrinsic factor antibodies (22%). The mean age and the proportion of subjects with slight and moderate AGB of all AGB subjects was significantly lower in PA relatives than in controls. This suggests an early onset and a rapid progression from mild to severe AGB in PA relatives. Thus, the PA relatives appear to consist of two populations, one with a high and one with little or no proneness to severe AGB. This bimodal distribution suggests the participation of a single major factor, probably genetic, in the pathogenesis of severe AGB in PA relatives.", "contents": "Gastric morphology, function, and immunology in first-degree relatives of probands with pernicious anemia and controls. Gastric morphology, function, and immunology was studied in 68 patients with pernicious anemia (PA), 183 of their first-degree relatives, and 354 control subjects. The PA relatives and controls were comparable in age and sex distribution. In both groups, mean gastric acid output decreased and mean fasting serum gastrin levels and the prevalence of atrophic gastritis increased with age. The total prevalence of chronic gastritis was similar in the two groups, but severe atrophic gastritis of the body of the stomach (AGB), achlorhydria, parietal cell antibodies, and a raised fasting serum gastrin level were significantly more common in PA relatives than in controls. Of the PA relatives 23 had severe AGB which was indistinguishable from the gastric mucosal lesion found in PA probands and was, as a rule, accompanied by several other characteristics of type A gastritis. These included a normal antrum (78%), slight or absent inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa (70%), achlorhydria (91%), high fasting serum gastrin level (83%), parietal cell antibodies (65%), and intrinsic factor antibodies (22%). The mean age and the proportion of subjects with slight and moderate AGB of all AGB subjects was significantly lower in PA relatives than in controls. This suggests an early onset and a rapid progression from mild to severe AGB in PA relatives. Thus, the PA relatives appear to consist of two populations, one with a high and one with little or no proneness to severe AGB. This bimodal distribution suggests the participation of a single major factor, probably genetic, in the pathogenesis of severe AGB in PA relatives.", "PMID": 432534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1116", "title": "Depression of exocrine pancreatic secretion by collection through duodenoscopic catheters.", "content": "Two dogs were equipped with gastric and duodenal cannulas permitting quantitative collection of pure pancreatic juice. Two series of experiments were performed: 1) collection through a short catheter, length 35 cm, volume 0.3 ml, and internal diameter 1.0 mm, and 2) collection through a long catheter used for duodenoscopic cannulation in man, length 110 cm, volume 1.7 ml, and internal diameter 1.0 mm at the tip and 1.4 mm in the other part of the catheter. After a basal period of 30 min the secretion was stimulated with secretin in the doses 0.1, 0.5, and 2.0 clinical units/kg/h, each dose being infused over a period of 30 min. With the long catheter the dose-response curve for fluid and bicarbonate was shifted to the right. The basal secretion of fluid was depressed 40%; with increasing secretory rates the depression was less pronounced. No significant depression of the bicarbonate concentration was seen. The protein secretion was insignificantly reduced.", "contents": "Depression of exocrine pancreatic secretion by collection through duodenoscopic catheters. Two dogs were equipped with gastric and duodenal cannulas permitting quantitative collection of pure pancreatic juice. Two series of experiments were performed: 1) collection through a short catheter, length 35 cm, volume 0.3 ml, and internal diameter 1.0 mm, and 2) collection through a long catheter used for duodenoscopic cannulation in man, length 110 cm, volume 1.7 ml, and internal diameter 1.0 mm at the tip and 1.4 mm in the other part of the catheter. After a basal period of 30 min the secretion was stimulated with secretin in the doses 0.1, 0.5, and 2.0 clinical units/kg/h, each dose being infused over a period of 30 min. With the long catheter the dose-response curve for fluid and bicarbonate was shifted to the right. The basal secretion of fluid was depressed 40%; with increasing secretory rates the depression was less pronounced. No significant depression of the bicarbonate concentration was seen. The protein secretion was insignificantly reduced.", "PMID": 432535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1117", "title": "Assessment of cerulein effects on serum bile acids concentration in liver disease. Comparison with the test meal.", "content": "Twenty-four liver patients and seven healthy subjects underwent the enzymatic-fluorimetric assay of total serum bile acids during fasting and after a hyperlipidic meal, both alone and with the intramuscular administration of 0.3 microgram/kg of cerulein. A third test with cerulein alone was carried out on the control group and on 12 liver patients. The liver patients were divided into two groups; those with moderate and severe liver disease, according to the degree of liver function impairment and the clinical data. The best discriminant efficiency was observed in the test with the meal alone, even if, in the liver patients, the meal with cerulein caused a greater percentual increase of serum bile acids. After taking into account the most significant correlations between serum bile acids and liver function tests, the addition of cerulein to the meal may be recommended for liver patients with previous cholecystectomy or gallbladder pathology.", "contents": "Assessment of cerulein effects on serum bile acids concentration in liver disease. Comparison with the test meal. Twenty-four liver patients and seven healthy subjects underwent the enzymatic-fluorimetric assay of total serum bile acids during fasting and after a hyperlipidic meal, both alone and with the intramuscular administration of 0.3 microgram/kg of cerulein. A third test with cerulein alone was carried out on the control group and on 12 liver patients. The liver patients were divided into two groups; those with moderate and severe liver disease, according to the degree of liver function impairment and the clinical data. The best discriminant efficiency was observed in the test with the meal alone, even if, in the liver patients, the meal with cerulein caused a greater percentual increase of serum bile acids. After taking into account the most significant correlations between serum bile acids and liver function tests, the addition of cerulein to the meal may be recommended for liver patients with previous cholecystectomy or gallbladder pathology.", "PMID": 432536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1118", "title": "Agarose gel electrophoresis of duodenal juice in normal condition and in children with malabsorption.", "content": "Agarose gel electrophoresis (at pH 8.6) was used for qualitative determination of pancreatic enzymes in duodenal juice. The various enzymes were identified by staining techniques with specific chromogenic substrates, by quantitative determination of enzymes in eluates of gel slices, and by immunoelectrophoresis. The various protein bands corresponded to the following enzymes (from the anode to the cathode): chymotrypsin, trypsin, carboxypeptidase A, chymotrypsin, amylase (around the slit), lipase, elastase, and trypsin. The method was applied to a study of exocrine pancreatic function in 10 adults and 83 children suspected of having malabsorption. The duodenal juice, also analyzed for trypsin and amylase content, was collected in fasting condition and after a test meal of water. In patients with normal pancreatic function, all the enzyme bands were present and easy to recognize. In 87 patients carboxypeptidase A was present as two bands in 68 (80%), anodal trypsin as two bands in 39 (45%), and cathodal trypsin as two bands in 85 (97%). Electrophoresis of duodenal juice gave as much information from the fasting sample as after the test meal. Six children with pancreatic insufficiency (cystic fibrosis and Shwachmar's syndrome) had no or only faintly stained enzyme bands and a strongly stained albumin-containing band most anodally. The method is simple, rapid, and useful in routine work. The combination of this qualitative test with a quantitative one (e.g. trypsin determination) provides good information about exocrine pancreatic function.", "contents": "Agarose gel electrophoresis of duodenal juice in normal condition and in children with malabsorption. Agarose gel electrophoresis (at pH 8.6) was used for qualitative determination of pancreatic enzymes in duodenal juice. The various enzymes were identified by staining techniques with specific chromogenic substrates, by quantitative determination of enzymes in eluates of gel slices, and by immunoelectrophoresis. The various protein bands corresponded to the following enzymes (from the anode to the cathode): chymotrypsin, trypsin, carboxypeptidase A, chymotrypsin, amylase (around the slit), lipase, elastase, and trypsin. The method was applied to a study of exocrine pancreatic function in 10 adults and 83 children suspected of having malabsorption. The duodenal juice, also analyzed for trypsin and amylase content, was collected in fasting condition and after a test meal of water. In patients with normal pancreatic function, all the enzyme bands were present and easy to recognize. In 87 patients carboxypeptidase A was present as two bands in 68 (80%), anodal trypsin as two bands in 39 (45%), and cathodal trypsin as two bands in 85 (97%). Electrophoresis of duodenal juice gave as much information from the fasting sample as after the test meal. Six children with pancreatic insufficiency (cystic fibrosis and Shwachmar's syndrome) had no or only faintly stained enzyme bands and a strongly stained albumin-containing band most anodally. The method is simple, rapid, and useful in routine work. The combination of this qualitative test with a quantitative one (e.g. trypsin determination) provides good information about exocrine pancreatic function.", "PMID": 432537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1119", "title": "Partial reconstruction of intestinal continuity in the treatment of severe side effects following intestinal shunt operation for obesity.", "content": "Severe side effects of intestinal shunt operation were the indication for reoperation of eight patients. To maintain the acquired weight loss, complete revision of the bypass and return to normal gastrointestinal continuity was omitted. The shunt was taken down and moved 20 cm in proximal direction on the terminal ileum. After this procedure weight loss was converted to a small gain in weight, diarrhoea decreased, and electrolyte disturbances turned out to be a minor problem. At the same time quality of life improved. We suggest that this type of reoperation is adequate in most patients suffering from severe side effects after intestinal bypass operation.", "contents": "Partial reconstruction of intestinal continuity in the treatment of severe side effects following intestinal shunt operation for obesity. Severe side effects of intestinal shunt operation were the indication for reoperation of eight patients. To maintain the acquired weight loss, complete revision of the bypass and return to normal gastrointestinal continuity was omitted. The shunt was taken down and moved 20 cm in proximal direction on the terminal ileum. After this procedure weight loss was converted to a small gain in weight, diarrhoea decreased, and electrolyte disturbances turned out to be a minor problem. At the same time quality of life improved. We suggest that this type of reoperation is adequate in most patients suffering from severe side effects after intestinal bypass operation.", "PMID": 432538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1120", "title": "Pneumatosis cystoides coli associated with high H2 excretion. Treatment with an elemental diet.", "content": "A patient with severe diarrhoea and gas-filled cysts in the wall of the colon is reported. The patient had normal lung function but an extremely high end-expiratory H2 fasting value. Treatment with an elemental diet for 2 weeks resulted in a decreased H2 value and in regression of the cysts. After 4 months on a normal diet extensive recurrence was observed. We conclude that excessive intestinal gas production may play a role in the pathogenesis of the cysts.", "contents": "Pneumatosis cystoides coli associated with high H2 excretion. Treatment with an elemental diet. A patient with severe diarrhoea and gas-filled cysts in the wall of the colon is reported. The patient had normal lung function but an extremely high end-expiratory H2 fasting value. Treatment with an elemental diet for 2 weeks resulted in a decreased H2 value and in regression of the cysts. After 4 months on a normal diet extensive recurrence was observed. We conclude that excessive intestinal gas production may play a role in the pathogenesis of the cysts.", "PMID": 432539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1121", "title": "The effect of parietal cell vagotomy and selective vagotomy with pyloroplasty on iron absorption. A prospective randomized study.", "content": "Iron absorption from a composite meal was studied in 37 male patients before and 1 year after parietal cell vagotomy (PCV) and selective vagotomy with pyloroplasty (SV + P) in a prospective randomized series. The ability to absorb dietary non-haem iron was studied by relating in each subjects the food iron absorption to the absorption from a small dose of ferrous iron, which has been shown to be unaffected by gastric surgery. After both PCV and SV + P there was a malabsorption of food iron which was statistically significant in patients with increased iron requirements caused by phlebotomy. Malabsorption of food iron was less marked after PCV and SV + P than in patients after gastric resection, and it is concluded that there may be no need for a general prophylactic iron supplementation in patients operated on with PCV and SV + P.", "contents": "The effect of parietal cell vagotomy and selective vagotomy with pyloroplasty on iron absorption. A prospective randomized study. Iron absorption from a composite meal was studied in 37 male patients before and 1 year after parietal cell vagotomy (PCV) and selective vagotomy with pyloroplasty (SV + P) in a prospective randomized series. The ability to absorb dietary non-haem iron was studied by relating in each subjects the food iron absorption to the absorption from a small dose of ferrous iron, which has been shown to be unaffected by gastric surgery. After both PCV and SV + P there was a malabsorption of food iron which was statistically significant in patients with increased iron requirements caused by phlebotomy. Malabsorption of food iron was less marked after PCV and SV + P than in patients after gastric resection, and it is concluded that there may be no need for a general prophylactic iron supplementation in patients operated on with PCV and SV + P.", "PMID": 432540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1122", "title": "Biopsy and brush cytology in the diagnosis of gastric cancer.", "content": "In a prospective study the diagnostic value of biopsy and that of brush cytology in the diagnosis of gastric cancer were compared. The patients included in the study were endoscopied because of upper abdominal dyspepsia. When the endoscopic appearance of the mucosa suggested malignancy, and in all cases in which ulcerations were seen, brush cytological smear and at least five biopsies were obtained. The cytology and the biopsy specimens were assessed by two different pathologists in a mutual blind fashion. If the result of the examination suggested or showed the presence of cancer, it was considered positive. The results were evaluated by means of sequential analysis. When 195 examinations had been included in the study, disagreement had occurred in 8 cases, in all of which the biopsy was verified as correct. This difference is significant. In 187 cases the result of the 2 tests were in agreement, but in 3 cases the result of both tests were falsely negative. It was concluded that no diagnostic advantage was gained by the addition of brush cytology to endoscopic biopsy.", "contents": "Biopsy and brush cytology in the diagnosis of gastric cancer. In a prospective study the diagnostic value of biopsy and that of brush cytology in the diagnosis of gastric cancer were compared. The patients included in the study were endoscopied because of upper abdominal dyspepsia. When the endoscopic appearance of the mucosa suggested malignancy, and in all cases in which ulcerations were seen, brush cytological smear and at least five biopsies were obtained. The cytology and the biopsy specimens were assessed by two different pathologists in a mutual blind fashion. If the result of the examination suggested or showed the presence of cancer, it was considered positive. The results were evaluated by means of sequential analysis. When 195 examinations had been included in the study, disagreement had occurred in 8 cases, in all of which the biopsy was verified as correct. This difference is significant. In 187 cases the result of the 2 tests were in agreement, but in 3 cases the result of both tests were falsely negative. It was concluded that no diagnostic advantage was gained by the addition of brush cytology to endoscopic biopsy.", "PMID": 432541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1123", "title": "Ulcer risk in a duodeno-gastric antireflux operation in dogs.", "content": "Duodenogastric reflux is a possible pathogenetic mechanism in some type I gastric ulcers. An antireflux operation is therefore a logical procedure but involves the risk of marginal ulceration. To examine this risk, the following study was performed: 18 dogs were divided into 3 groups of 6. One group had an antireflux operation performed (AR), one had AR plus parietal cell vagotomy (AR + PCV), and the third was a control group that was given daily injections of 40 mg repository histamine. All control dogs developed ulcers after 7-84 days, mean 37 days, of histamine. Three dogs in the AR group developed ulcers spontaneously 55-92 days postoperatively, whereas none of the AR + PCV group developed ulcers spontaneously 72-108 days postoperatively. After histamine injection two of the remaining three AR dogs developed ulcers after 3-4 days of stimulation, and three of the six AR + PCV dogs developed ulcers after 4-5 days of stimulation. It is concluded that the AR operation is heavily ulcer-prone and that PCV does not protect sufficiently against ulceration.", "contents": "Ulcer risk in a duodeno-gastric antireflux operation in dogs. Duodenogastric reflux is a possible pathogenetic mechanism in some type I gastric ulcers. An antireflux operation is therefore a logical procedure but involves the risk of marginal ulceration. To examine this risk, the following study was performed: 18 dogs were divided into 3 groups of 6. One group had an antireflux operation performed (AR), one had AR plus parietal cell vagotomy (AR + PCV), and the third was a control group that was given daily injections of 40 mg repository histamine. All control dogs developed ulcers after 7-84 days, mean 37 days, of histamine. Three dogs in the AR group developed ulcers spontaneously 55-92 days postoperatively, whereas none of the AR + PCV group developed ulcers spontaneously 72-108 days postoperatively. After histamine injection two of the remaining three AR dogs developed ulcers after 3-4 days of stimulation, and three of the six AR + PCV dogs developed ulcers after 4-5 days of stimulation. It is concluded that the AR operation is heavily ulcer-prone and that PCV does not protect sufficiently against ulceration.", "PMID": 432542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1124", "title": "Intestino-gastric reflux in dogs: spontaneous, after gastrojejunostomy, and after Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy with various lengths of the defunctioning loop.", "content": "Intestino-gastric reflux was measured in dogs with duodenostomy and gastrostomy by using chromium-51 injected through the duodenostomy. No transpyloric reflux was demonstrated. When gastrojejunostomy was performed, a large reflux was demonstrated. After conversion of the gastrojejunostomy into a Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy with various lengths of the defunctioning loop, a decrease in reflux was demonstrated, significantly correlated to the length of the loop. The calculated length corresponding to no reflux was found to be 49 cm.", "contents": "Intestino-gastric reflux in dogs: spontaneous, after gastrojejunostomy, and after Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy with various lengths of the defunctioning loop. Intestino-gastric reflux was measured in dogs with duodenostomy and gastrostomy by using chromium-51 injected through the duodenostomy. No transpyloric reflux was demonstrated. When gastrojejunostomy was performed, a large reflux was demonstrated. After conversion of the gastrojejunostomy into a Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy with various lengths of the defunctioning loop, a decrease in reflux was demonstrated, significantly correlated to the length of the loop. The calculated length corresponding to no reflux was found to be 49 cm.", "PMID": 432543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1125", "title": "Plasma enteroglucagon after jejunoileal bypass with 3:1 or 1:3 jejunoileal ratio.", "content": "Enteroglucagon concentration in peripheral blood was determined before and after a test meal in 24 morbidly obese patients. Eighteen had jejunoileal bypass, 6 with a 3:1 and 12 with a 1:3 jejunoileal ratio of the functioning segment, and 6 were unoperated. All three groups exhibited an increment of enteroglucagon concentration after the meal. Both the fasting values and the postprandial integrated increments were higher in operated patients than in unoperated patients and higher after 1:3 bypass than after 3:1 bypass. The findings agree with the hypothesis that enteroglucagon secretion is stimulated by exposure of the lower bowel to upper-bowel content, and that the effect of enteroglucagon is, as seen after bypass operation, stimulation of growth and reduction of motility of the intestine.", "contents": "Plasma enteroglucagon after jejunoileal bypass with 3:1 or 1:3 jejunoileal ratio. Enteroglucagon concentration in peripheral blood was determined before and after a test meal in 24 morbidly obese patients. Eighteen had jejunoileal bypass, 6 with a 3:1 and 12 with a 1:3 jejunoileal ratio of the functioning segment, and 6 were unoperated. All three groups exhibited an increment of enteroglucagon concentration after the meal. Both the fasting values and the postprandial integrated increments were higher in operated patients than in unoperated patients and higher after 1:3 bypass than after 3:1 bypass. The findings agree with the hypothesis that enteroglucagon secretion is stimulated by exposure of the lower bowel to upper-bowel content, and that the effect of enteroglucagon is, as seen after bypass operation, stimulation of growth and reduction of motility of the intestine.", "PMID": 432544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1126", "title": "Survival rate in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.", "content": "The survival rate in 709 patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (CIBD) was calculated by the log rank test. There were 297 patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and 412 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). In both diseases there was a survival rate of about 94% in the first year of observation against an expected rate of 99.5% in a general population matched for sex and age. This was because a large number of patients were severely ill at their first admission and required immediate or early surgery. During the subsequent 11 years the death rate in CIBD was higher (two to three times) than in the general population. After 12 years the survival rate was about 77% in both CD and UC. The difference was statistically insignificant. There was no significant difference in the sex ratio. The cancer rate was low. No gastrointestinal cancer occurred among patients with CD. Colorectal cancer was found in four patients with UC, three of whom presented with cancer on their first admission. It is concluded that recurrence and reoperation for recurrence in Crohn's disease have not impaired the prognosis compared to ulcerative colitis in this series.", "contents": "Survival rate in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The survival rate in 709 patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (CIBD) was calculated by the log rank test. There were 297 patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and 412 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). In both diseases there was a survival rate of about 94% in the first year of observation against an expected rate of 99.5% in a general population matched for sex and age. This was because a large number of patients were severely ill at their first admission and required immediate or early surgery. During the subsequent 11 years the death rate in CIBD was higher (two to three times) than in the general population. After 12 years the survival rate was about 77% in both CD and UC. The difference was statistically insignificant. There was no significant difference in the sex ratio. The cancer rate was low. No gastrointestinal cancer occurred among patients with CD. Colorectal cancer was found in four patients with UC, three of whom presented with cancer on their first admission. It is concluded that recurrence and reoperation for recurrence in Crohn's disease have not impaired the prognosis compared to ulcerative colitis in this series.", "PMID": 432545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1127", "title": "Radioimmunoassay of group I pepsinogens (PGI) and the effect of food on serum PGI.", "content": "A sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay of group I pepsinogens (PGI) in serum is described. The method is a modification of the one described by Samloff and Liebman. The most important improvement is that 125I-labeled PGI can be stored diluted for at least 7 weeks without loss of immunoreactivity. The present method has a detection limit of 2.6 ng/ml, a within-assay precision of 6%, and a between-assay precision of 17% in the normal range. A light test meal had no significant effect on serum PGI. Serum PGI in 388 non-fasting subjects 20-49 years old was 164 +/- 5 ng/ml (mean +/- S.E.M.). In these subjects serum PGI was significantly higher in men than in women. In both sexes the frequency distribution showed two peaks, indicating the presence of two different populations.", "contents": "Radioimmunoassay of group I pepsinogens (PGI) and the effect of food on serum PGI. A sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay of group I pepsinogens (PGI) in serum is described. The method is a modification of the one described by Samloff and Liebman. The most important improvement is that 125I-labeled PGI can be stored diluted for at least 7 weeks without loss of immunoreactivity. The present method has a detection limit of 2.6 ng/ml, a within-assay precision of 6%, and a between-assay precision of 17% in the normal range. A light test meal had no significant effect on serum PGI. Serum PGI in 388 non-fasting subjects 20-49 years old was 164 +/- 5 ng/ml (mean +/- S.E.M.). In these subjects serum PGI was significantly higher in men than in women. In both sexes the frequency distribution showed two peaks, indicating the presence of two different populations.", "PMID": 432546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1128", "title": "Abnormal duodenal loop: influence on basal and food-stimulated motility pattern.", "content": "Basal and food-stimulated motility patterns were studied in seven patients with distal duodenal anomalies (DDA) and in seven controls. A discordant pressure pattern and a significantly higher frequency of pressure waves was observed in DDA both in the basal state and after food intake in comparison to controls. It is concluded that the shape of the duodenal loop can influence basal and food-stimulated motility patterns in the duodenum, and thereby probably also the transport mechanism through the duodenal loop.", "contents": "Abnormal duodenal loop: influence on basal and food-stimulated motility pattern. Basal and food-stimulated motility patterns were studied in seven patients with distal duodenal anomalies (DDA) and in seven controls. A discordant pressure pattern and a significantly higher frequency of pressure waves was observed in DDA both in the basal state and after food intake in comparison to controls. It is concluded that the shape of the duodenal loop can influence basal and food-stimulated motility patterns in the duodenum, and thereby probably also the transport mechanism through the duodenal loop.", "PMID": 432547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1129", "title": "Autonomous erythropoietin induced erythrocytosis.", "content": "Erythrocytosis in a young Sinhalese man is described. The patient was known to have had a raised Hb and PCV for at least 10 years. Subsequent investigations failed to support the diagnosis of polycythaemia vera or to reveal a cause for secondary polycythaemia. Blood erythropoietin values were raised, but no cause for inappropriate secretion could be identified. Although there was no evidence of erythrocytosis in the family, the findings in this patient appear to be those of a condition which has been called familial polycythaemia. The spleen was unusually large and was associated with hypersplenism and thrombocytopenia. Problems of diagnosis and management are described. Phlebotomy appears to be the treatment of choice, with a regimen of regular venesection for the control of symptoms due to hyperviscosity and vascular occlusion.", "contents": "Autonomous erythropoietin induced erythrocytosis. Erythrocytosis in a young Sinhalese man is described. The patient was known to have had a raised Hb and PCV for at least 10 years. Subsequent investigations failed to support the diagnosis of polycythaemia vera or to reveal a cause for secondary polycythaemia. Blood erythropoietin values were raised, but no cause for inappropriate secretion could be identified. Although there was no evidence of erythrocytosis in the family, the findings in this patient appear to be those of a condition which has been called familial polycythaemia. The spleen was unusually large and was associated with hypersplenism and thrombocytopenia. Problems of diagnosis and management are described. Phlebotomy appears to be the treatment of choice, with a regimen of regular venesection for the control of symptoms due to hyperviscosity and vascular occlusion.", "PMID": 432548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1130", "title": "The relationship between marrow iron stores, plasma ferritin concentrations and iron absorption.", "content": "The percentage absorption from a 3 mg dose of ferrous iron was measured in 50 subjects with iron stores that varied over a wide range. Iron status was assessed by a number of measurements, including the haemoglobin concentration, the plasma iron concentration, the total iron-binding capacity, the plasma ferritin concentration and the concentration of non-haem iron in the bone marrow. There were good inverse correlations between the log percentage iron absorption and both the log marrow non-haem iron concentration (r -0.94; P less than 0.001) and the log plasma ferritin concentration (r -0.78; P less than 0.001). In addition, there was a positive ferritin concentration (r +0.84; P less than 0.001). These results suggest that reticuloendothelial iron stores represent an important determinant of iron absorption and that their size can be guaged from the plasma ferritin concentration.", "contents": "The relationship between marrow iron stores, plasma ferritin concentrations and iron absorption. The percentage absorption from a 3 mg dose of ferrous iron was measured in 50 subjects with iron stores that varied over a wide range. Iron status was assessed by a number of measurements, including the haemoglobin concentration, the plasma iron concentration, the total iron-binding capacity, the plasma ferritin concentration and the concentration of non-haem iron in the bone marrow. There were good inverse correlations between the log percentage iron absorption and both the log marrow non-haem iron concentration (r -0.94; P less than 0.001) and the log plasma ferritin concentration (r -0.78; P less than 0.001). In addition, there was a positive ferritin concentration (r +0.84; P less than 0.001). These results suggest that reticuloendothelial iron stores represent an important determinant of iron absorption and that their size can be guaged from the plasma ferritin concentration.", "PMID": 432549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1131", "title": "Heat production by lymphocytes in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.", "content": "Using microcalorimeters of the thermopile conduction type heat production was measured in lymphocytes from peripheral blood in 8 normals and 10 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The heat production per CLL lymphocyte was lower (1.8 pW/cell) than that found in normal lymphocytes (2.6 pW/cell). Due to the high numbers of lymphocytes in the peripheral blood the estimated heat production of the intravascular lymphocyte pool in CLL was considerably higher than in normals. Since the circulating lymphocytes constitute a minute fraction of the total lymphoid mass in CLL it is suggested that the accumulation of metabolically active lymphocytes in blood and tissues may explain the common clinical signs of hypermetabolism in this disease. The results also indicate that calorimetry may be a useful technique for metabolic studies in suspensions of malignant cells.", "contents": "Heat production by lymphocytes in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Using microcalorimeters of the thermopile conduction type heat production was measured in lymphocytes from peripheral blood in 8 normals and 10 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The heat production per CLL lymphocyte was lower (1.8 pW/cell) than that found in normal lymphocytes (2.6 pW/cell). Due to the high numbers of lymphocytes in the peripheral blood the estimated heat production of the intravascular lymphocyte pool in CLL was considerably higher than in normals. Since the circulating lymphocytes constitute a minute fraction of the total lymphoid mass in CLL it is suggested that the accumulation of metabolically active lymphocytes in blood and tissues may explain the common clinical signs of hypermetabolism in this disease. The results also indicate that calorimetry may be a useful technique for metabolic studies in suspensions of malignant cells.", "PMID": 432550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1132", "title": "Concomitance of an active and an inactive mutant of red cell pyruvate kinase (PK).", "content": "A new mutant red cell PK associated with mild chronic haemolytic anaemia is described. The propositus, double heterozygous for a maternal gene coding for a structural abnormal enzyme and a paternal gene coding for a catalitically inactive enzyme, was suitable for an accurate functional characterization of the PK variant since his erythrocytes contained only one active mutant form of this enzyme. The active isoenzyme was characterized by low activity, decreased affinity for phosphoenolpyruvate, incomplete fructose-1,6-diphosphate activation, increased 'zero-time transition temperature', increased stability to guanidine-HCl and storage at +4 degrees C, increased guanosine-5'-diphosphate and cytidine-5'-diphosphate utilization, altered electrophoretic pattern with a single slow-moving component and abnormal isoelectric point. Affinity for ADP, ATP inhibition, optimum pH, molecular weight of the subunits, antigen concentration and immunological properties were in the normal range.", "contents": "Concomitance of an active and an inactive mutant of red cell pyruvate kinase (PK). A new mutant red cell PK associated with mild chronic haemolytic anaemia is described. The propositus, double heterozygous for a maternal gene coding for a structural abnormal enzyme and a paternal gene coding for a catalitically inactive enzyme, was suitable for an accurate functional characterization of the PK variant since his erythrocytes contained only one active mutant form of this enzyme. The active isoenzyme was characterized by low activity, decreased affinity for phosphoenolpyruvate, incomplete fructose-1,6-diphosphate activation, increased 'zero-time transition temperature', increased stability to guanidine-HCl and storage at +4 degrees C, increased guanosine-5'-diphosphate and cytidine-5'-diphosphate utilization, altered electrophoretic pattern with a single slow-moving component and abnormal isoelectric point. Affinity for ADP, ATP inhibition, optimum pH, molecular weight of the subunits, antigen concentration and immunological properties were in the normal range.", "PMID": 432551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1133", "title": "Elevated plasma lysozyme in Hodgkin's disease. An indicator of increased macrophage activity?", "content": "Plasma lysozyme levels were studied in 42 patients with Hodgkin's disease and were found significantly increased. Plasma lysozyme varied with the stage of the disease and with symptoms, but did not correlate with the histological subtype or with blood neutrophil and monocyte counts. Serial measurements in four patients on MOPP treatment showed a rapid decrease following treatment. The increased plasma lysozyme in Hodgkin's disease stems most likely from the macrophage system, either because the macrophages are hyperactive and/or because the malignant cell in Hodgkin's disease is of macrophage origin.", "contents": "Elevated plasma lysozyme in Hodgkin's disease. An indicator of increased macrophage activity? Plasma lysozyme levels were studied in 42 patients with Hodgkin's disease and were found significantly increased. Plasma lysozyme varied with the stage of the disease and with symptoms, but did not correlate with the histological subtype or with blood neutrophil and monocyte counts. Serial measurements in four patients on MOPP treatment showed a rapid decrease following treatment. The increased plasma lysozyme in Hodgkin's disease stems most likely from the macrophage system, either because the macrophages are hyperactive and/or because the malignant cell in Hodgkin's disease is of macrophage origin.", "PMID": 432552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1134", "title": "Haemolytic anaemia of pregnancy.", "content": "Haemolytic anaemia apparently induced by pregnancy is reported in an otherwise healthy woman, with a negative family history. Folate deficiency, haemoglobinopathies, enzymopathies, hereditary spherocytosis, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, interstitial haematomata, hypertensive toxaemia, auto-immunity and infections were excluded. The autohaemolysis test showed increased lysis in the presence of added glucose. This abnormality was corrected by insulin when excess glucose was present, but not by insulin alone. It is suggested that this patient's erythrocytes may have been altered by placental lactogen and/or prolactin in such a way as to make them abnormally dependent on insulin for the uptake of glucose.", "contents": "Haemolytic anaemia of pregnancy. Haemolytic anaemia apparently induced by pregnancy is reported in an otherwise healthy woman, with a negative family history. Folate deficiency, haemoglobinopathies, enzymopathies, hereditary spherocytosis, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, interstitial haematomata, hypertensive toxaemia, auto-immunity and infections were excluded. The autohaemolysis test showed increased lysis in the presence of added glucose. This abnormality was corrected by insulin when excess glucose was present, but not by insulin alone. It is suggested that this patient's erythrocytes may have been altered by placental lactogen and/or prolactin in such a way as to make them abnormally dependent on insulin for the uptake of glucose.", "PMID": 432553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1135", "title": "Analysis of the serum IgE levels in nonimmunized rats of various strains by a radioimmunoassay.", "content": "An assay, the paper radioimmunosorbent test (PRIST) for the measurement of total serum IgE in the rat, that allows the measurement of IgE down to a level of 0.25 ng/ml, is described. With this assay it has been demonstrated that significant differences exist in normal serum IgE levels in non-immunized rats. These differences are strain-dependent, and strains may be classified as to low (less than 50 ng/ml), medium (50--300 ng/ml) or high (greater than 300 ng/ml) serum levels. The serum IgE level is not sex-dependent. Environmental factors have a pronounced influence, optimal housing conditions resulting in low and stable levels while suboptimal conditions result in high levels with great fluctuations. Hybridization experiments suggest a multigenic control, with low IgE strains having a dominating suppressor effect.", "contents": "Analysis of the serum IgE levels in nonimmunized rats of various strains by a radioimmunoassay. An assay, the paper radioimmunosorbent test (PRIST) for the measurement of total serum IgE in the rat, that allows the measurement of IgE down to a level of 0.25 ng/ml, is described. With this assay it has been demonstrated that significant differences exist in normal serum IgE levels in non-immunized rats. These differences are strain-dependent, and strains may be classified as to low (less than 50 ng/ml), medium (50--300 ng/ml) or high (greater than 300 ng/ml) serum levels. The serum IgE level is not sex-dependent. Environmental factors have a pronounced influence, optimal housing conditions resulting in low and stable levels while suboptimal conditions result in high levels with great fluctuations. Hybridization experiments suggest a multigenic control, with low IgE strains having a dominating suppressor effect.", "PMID": 432554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1136", "title": "A radioimmunoassay for evaluation of the IgE and IgG antibody responses in the rat.", "content": "An assay, the paper radioallergosorbent test (PRAST), for the measurement of specific serum IgE antibody in the rat is described in detail. This assay has been used, in conjunction with a modified PRAST for the determination of relative specific serum IgG antibody and the PRIST assay for total serum IgE [13], to measure specific IgE and IgG and total IgE immune responses in normal parasite infected rats immunized using various protocols. The results indicate that there is a relationship between the basic IgE level and the immune response, i.e. a rat strain with a low constitutive IgE level demonstrates a weak response whereas a high level strain reacts strongly. When PRAST and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) were compared, using standardized IgE antibody containing sera, the results were in good agreement. However, PRAST is the preferable assay as it shows less intrinsic variation, is more sensitive than PCA, and is not influenced by high serum IgE levels in the recipient animal.", "contents": "A radioimmunoassay for evaluation of the IgE and IgG antibody responses in the rat. An assay, the paper radioallergosorbent test (PRAST), for the measurement of specific serum IgE antibody in the rat is described in detail. This assay has been used, in conjunction with a modified PRAST for the determination of relative specific serum IgG antibody and the PRIST assay for total serum IgE [13], to measure specific IgE and IgG and total IgE immune responses in normal parasite infected rats immunized using various protocols. The results indicate that there is a relationship between the basic IgE level and the immune response, i.e. a rat strain with a low constitutive IgE level demonstrates a weak response whereas a high level strain reacts strongly. When PRAST and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) were compared, using standardized IgE antibody containing sera, the results were in good agreement. However, PRAST is the preferable assay as it shows less intrinsic variation, is more sensitive than PCA, and is not influenced by high serum IgE levels in the recipient animal.", "PMID": 432555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1137", "title": "Human natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity against fetal fibroblasts. IV. Comparison of cytotoxic activity with antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.", "content": "The dependence of human natural killer (NK) cell activity on antibodies was investigated. Absorption of the culture medium with target cells, trypsinization of the effector cells followed by a brief recovery, and incubation of the effector cells in serum-free nutrient medium did not affect natural killer cell activity against fetal fibroblasts. No soluble mediator in the nutrient media of effector cell--fibroblast co-cultures could be demonstrated. It was therefore concluded that antibodies are not involved in the cytolytic activity of natural killer cells. However, competition data and the activity of isolated NK cells against antibody-coated target cells suggested overlapping between the effector cells mediating natural and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.", "contents": "Human natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity against fetal fibroblasts. IV. Comparison of cytotoxic activity with antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. The dependence of human natural killer (NK) cell activity on antibodies was investigated. Absorption of the culture medium with target cells, trypsinization of the effector cells followed by a brief recovery, and incubation of the effector cells in serum-free nutrient medium did not affect natural killer cell activity against fetal fibroblasts. No soluble mediator in the nutrient media of effector cell--fibroblast co-cultures could be demonstrated. It was therefore concluded that antibodies are not involved in the cytolytic activity of natural killer cells. However, competition data and the activity of isolated NK cells against antibody-coated target cells suggested overlapping between the effector cells mediating natural and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.", "PMID": 432556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1138", "title": "Lymphocyte studies in rheumatoid arthritis. III. A comparative study of the responses of peripheral blood and synovial fluid lymphocytes to phytomitogens.", "content": "The response of peripheral blood and synovial fluid lymphocytes to three non-specific mitogens has been studied. The paired samples were taken from patients with a range of inflammatory arthritides. Unstimulated synovial fluid lymphocytes (SFL) tended to have a greater uptake of tritiated thymidine than had unstimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). This background uptake of tritiated thymidine by SFL showed a positive correlation with the response these SFL then showed to the mitogens. A significant depression was observed in the SFL response to phytohaemagglutinin when compared with the paired PBL response; this was seen in both the rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases groups. SFL responses to concanavalin A and pokeweed mitogen, although depressed in individual cases, failed to show a significant depression overall. Attempts to restore the SFL response to that of the paired PBL by removal of any possible blocking substance from the cell surface either by pre-incubation of SFL in tissue culture medium or by enzyme treatment were unsuccessful. This suggested that cell surface blockers were possibly not the reason for deficient SFL reponses and that other factors were involved.", "contents": "Lymphocyte studies in rheumatoid arthritis. III. A comparative study of the responses of peripheral blood and synovial fluid lymphocytes to phytomitogens. The response of peripheral blood and synovial fluid lymphocytes to three non-specific mitogens has been studied. The paired samples were taken from patients with a range of inflammatory arthritides. Unstimulated synovial fluid lymphocytes (SFL) tended to have a greater uptake of tritiated thymidine than had unstimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). This background uptake of tritiated thymidine by SFL showed a positive correlation with the response these SFL then showed to the mitogens. A significant depression was observed in the SFL response to phytohaemagglutinin when compared with the paired PBL response; this was seen in both the rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases groups. SFL responses to concanavalin A and pokeweed mitogen, although depressed in individual cases, failed to show a significant depression overall. Attempts to restore the SFL response to that of the paired PBL by removal of any possible blocking substance from the cell surface either by pre-incubation of SFL in tissue culture medium or by enzyme treatment were unsuccessful. This suggested that cell surface blockers were possibly not the reason for deficient SFL reponses and that other factors were involved.", "PMID": 432557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1139", "title": "Arthroplasty of the knee joint. With special reference to complications.", "content": "Ninety-one arthroplasties of the knee joint--all performed by the same orthopaedic surgeon, were followed for from 6 months to 6 years (mean 3.5 years). At the time of the primary operation the mean age of the patients, most of whom had rheumatoid arthritis, was 60 years. The prostheses most often used were the Geomedic, the modular and the polycentric. The most consistently good results were achieved with the Geomedic prosthesis. The primary arthroplasty failed in 16 knees (17.6%); deep infections developed in four knees (4.4%). In three knees the prosthesis fractured and in two knees the supporting bone fractured. All these fractures occurred in the medial compartment of the knee joint. Loosening of the prosthesis--with or without concomitant infection or fracture of the prosthesis--was the most common local complication (nine knees). Reoperations were performed, during the follow-up period reported on here, on all knees in which complications developed, except one. Eight knees, about 9%, required arthrodesis. In six knees the prosthesis was replaced, and one knee was treated by arthrotomy and closed irrigation. The four deep infections resolved during the follow-up period--one after arthrodesis of the joint and one after arthrotomy and closed irrigation. In the other two knees with deep infection the prosthesis was replaced.", "contents": "Arthroplasty of the knee joint. With special reference to complications. Ninety-one arthroplasties of the knee joint--all performed by the same orthopaedic surgeon, were followed for from 6 months to 6 years (mean 3.5 years). At the time of the primary operation the mean age of the patients, most of whom had rheumatoid arthritis, was 60 years. The prostheses most often used were the Geomedic, the modular and the polycentric. The most consistently good results were achieved with the Geomedic prosthesis. The primary arthroplasty failed in 16 knees (17.6%); deep infections developed in four knees (4.4%). In three knees the prosthesis fractured and in two knees the supporting bone fractured. All these fractures occurred in the medial compartment of the knee joint. Loosening of the prosthesis--with or without concomitant infection or fracture of the prosthesis--was the most common local complication (nine knees). Reoperations were performed, during the follow-up period reported on here, on all knees in which complications developed, except one. Eight knees, about 9%, required arthrodesis. In six knees the prosthesis was replaced, and one knee was treated by arthrotomy and closed irrigation. The four deep infections resolved during the follow-up period--one after arthrodesis of the joint and one after arthrotomy and closed irrigation. In the other two knees with deep infection the prosthesis was replaced.", "PMID": 432558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1140", "title": "Arthritis associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.", "content": "Eleven arthritic patients with serological evidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae aetiology are presented. They were found among 1259 patients with serologically confirmed M. pneumoniae infection; 6 patients had monoarthritis, which has not been described in association with M. pneumoniae infection before and 5 had polyarthritis.", "contents": "Arthritis associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Eleven arthritic patients with serological evidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae aetiology are presented. They were found among 1259 patients with serologically confirmed M. pneumoniae infection; 6 patients had monoarthritis, which has not been described in association with M. pneumoniae infection before and 5 had polyarthritis.", "PMID": 432559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1141", "title": "Differentiation between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a biochemical and statistical analysis of fingernail amino acids.", "content": "The differentiation between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can be clinically difficult if there is no manifest psoriasis of skin or nail. In order to clarify this diagnostic problem, the amino acid patterns in seventy-five psoriatic and non-psoriatic nails have been studied. Using gas--liquid chromatographic techniques and discriminant analysis, a high degree of differentiation (96%) has been established between the normal looking nails of patients with psoriatic arthritis and those with rheumatoid arthritis. This biochemical/statistical approach to the fingernail enhances diagnosis in difficult clinical problems, particularly where there are no overt manifestations of psoriasis.", "contents": "Differentiation between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a biochemical and statistical analysis of fingernail amino acids. The differentiation between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can be clinically difficult if there is no manifest psoriasis of skin or nail. In order to clarify this diagnostic problem, the amino acid patterns in seventy-five psoriatic and non-psoriatic nails have been studied. Using gas--liquid chromatographic techniques and discriminant analysis, a high degree of differentiation (96%) has been established between the normal looking nails of patients with psoriatic arthritis and those with rheumatoid arthritis. This biochemical/statistical approach to the fingernail enhances diagnosis in difficult clinical problems, particularly where there are no overt manifestations of psoriasis.", "PMID": 432560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1142", "title": "A histochemical study of alkaline and acid phosphatase activity in osteoarthritic synovial membrane.", "content": "In order to determine the localization and activity of alkaline and acid phosphatase in the synovial membrane of osteoarthritic hip joints, enzymo-histochemical analyses were performed using Burstone's and Barka & Anderson's methods. Frozen sections of synovial biopsy material from 12 osteoarthritic and 6 control hip joints were studied. Alkaline phosphatase was found located in fibroblasts below the lining cells and in capillaries and precapillary arterioles. Acid phosphatase was seen in the lysosomes in the lining cells. Semiquantitative evaluation by means of initial time determination showed significantly greater activity in osteoarthritic synovia than in the control group. Whilst the increased activity of lysosomal enzymes is presumably implicated in the joint cartilage damage seen in osteoarthritis, the significance of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels is not yet clear.", "contents": "A histochemical study of alkaline and acid phosphatase activity in osteoarthritic synovial membrane. In order to determine the localization and activity of alkaline and acid phosphatase in the synovial membrane of osteoarthritic hip joints, enzymo-histochemical analyses were performed using Burstone's and Barka & Anderson's methods. Frozen sections of synovial biopsy material from 12 osteoarthritic and 6 control hip joints were studied. Alkaline phosphatase was found located in fibroblasts below the lining cells and in capillaries and precapillary arterioles. Acid phosphatase was seen in the lysosomes in the lining cells. Semiquantitative evaluation by means of initial time determination showed significantly greater activity in osteoarthritic synovia than in the control group. Whilst the increased activity of lysosomal enzymes is presumably implicated in the joint cartilage damage seen in osteoarthritis, the significance of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels is not yet clear.", "PMID": 432561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1143", "title": "Shoulder problems in juvenile chronic polyarthritis.", "content": "A high incidence of shoulder involvement was seen in severely disabled young people suffering from juvenile chronic polyarthritis who were undergoing surgical procedures on the lower limbs. The progressive nature of the radiological changes is described. Possible lines of surgical management are considered.", "contents": "Shoulder problems in juvenile chronic polyarthritis. A high incidence of shoulder involvement was seen in severely disabled young people suffering from juvenile chronic polyarthritis who were undergoing surgical procedures on the lower limbs. The progressive nature of the radiological changes is described. Possible lines of surgical management are considered.", "PMID": 432562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1144", "title": "Clinical and radiological features of ankylosing spondylitis in the 1950's and in 1976 at the same hospital.", "content": "The clinical and radiological pictures of AS in two patient series were compared to ascertain whether or not the course of AS has changed since the 1950's. Clinical and radiological features were analysed from X-ray pictures and records of patients with a diagnosis of AS treated at the Rheumatism Foundation Hospital in 1952--59 (168 patients) and 1976 (160 patients). No significant difference in the clinical findings could be demonstrated between the two patient series. The radiological progression in the sacroiliacal joints and the lumbar spine was more rapid in the 1950's than in 1976. In the 1950's 82.1% of all patients had grade III or IV sacro-iliitis, whereas the figure for 1976 was 67.5%. The difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.01). Two-thirds of patients with a duration of the disease of less than 4 years had grade III or IV sacro-iliitis in the 1950's compared with only one-third in 1976. 14.6% of the patients in the 1950's and 4.8% in 1976 had more than 10 lumbar syndesmophytes. The difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.01). Possible reasons for the difference observed are discussed.", "contents": "Clinical and radiological features of ankylosing spondylitis in the 1950's and in 1976 at the same hospital. The clinical and radiological pictures of AS in two patient series were compared to ascertain whether or not the course of AS has changed since the 1950's. Clinical and radiological features were analysed from X-ray pictures and records of patients with a diagnosis of AS treated at the Rheumatism Foundation Hospital in 1952--59 (168 patients) and 1976 (160 patients). No significant difference in the clinical findings could be demonstrated between the two patient series. The radiological progression in the sacroiliacal joints and the lumbar spine was more rapid in the 1950's than in 1976. In the 1950's 82.1% of all patients had grade III or IV sacro-iliitis, whereas the figure for 1976 was 67.5%. The difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.01). Two-thirds of patients with a duration of the disease of less than 4 years had grade III or IV sacro-iliitis in the 1950's compared with only one-third in 1976. 14.6% of the patients in the 1950's and 4.8% in 1976 had more than 10 lumbar syndesmophytes. The difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.01). Possible reasons for the difference observed are discussed.", "PMID": 432563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1145", "title": "Researching occupational mortality. The problem of comparison.", "content": "In a number of countries, studies on occupational mortality have proved to be a useful epidemiological tool for the surveillance of on-the-job health risks. In Scandinavia, studies of this type are facilitated by record linkages made possible by the personal identity number. Health selection of occupational groups makes the problem of comparison one of critical interest in analytical epidemiology of occupational mortality and morbidity. Three generally applied principles in choosing control groups are discussed. Uses of random samples of the whole population will most likely yield under- or overestimates of the true risk of the occupation. It is recommended that comparison groups be introduced from other occupations or from the same occupation if possible making the groups similar with respect to socio-economic factors and especially health selection.", "contents": "Researching occupational mortality. The problem of comparison. In a number of countries, studies on occupational mortality have proved to be a useful epidemiological tool for the surveillance of on-the-job health risks. In Scandinavia, studies of this type are facilitated by record linkages made possible by the personal identity number. Health selection of occupational groups makes the problem of comparison one of critical interest in analytical epidemiology of occupational mortality and morbidity. Three generally applied principles in choosing control groups are discussed. Uses of random samples of the whole population will most likely yield under- or overestimates of the true risk of the occupation. It is recommended that comparison groups be introduced from other occupations or from the same occupation if possible making the groups similar with respect to socio-economic factors and especially health selection.", "PMID": 432564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1146", "title": "Trends in blunt abdominal trauma among hospital in-patients. Developments in a Swedish rural district over 30 years.", "content": "To analyse changes in background factors, injury pattern, and prognosis regarding blunt abdominal trauma in Sweden, the 30-year postwar (1946--75) development was investigated in a rural district. 396 patients were treated, showing a great increase during the last 5 years. The highest frequency was seen in patients aged 11--30 years. Abdominal trauma occurred most commonly during July and August. The growing aetiological importance of road accidents is shown. Equestrian accidents were common early in the period and again towards the end. The incidence of cerebrally confused patients increased. The organs most commonly traumatized were kidney, liver, and spleen. The frequency of multiple intra-abdominal injuries and also associated extra-abdominal injuries increased with time. There was a tendency towards shorter hospital stays. Mortality rates did not change during the period, even though injuries have become increasingly severe (judged by the Injury Severity Score). It is concluded that the improved care of patients compensated precisely for the increased severity of injuries, as reflected in mortality.", "contents": "Trends in blunt abdominal trauma among hospital in-patients. Developments in a Swedish rural district over 30 years. To analyse changes in background factors, injury pattern, and prognosis regarding blunt abdominal trauma in Sweden, the 30-year postwar (1946--75) development was investigated in a rural district. 396 patients were treated, showing a great increase during the last 5 years. The highest frequency was seen in patients aged 11--30 years. Abdominal trauma occurred most commonly during July and August. The growing aetiological importance of road accidents is shown. Equestrian accidents were common early in the period and again towards the end. The incidence of cerebrally confused patients increased. The organs most commonly traumatized were kidney, liver, and spleen. The frequency of multiple intra-abdominal injuries and also associated extra-abdominal injuries increased with time. There was a tendency towards shorter hospital stays. Mortality rates did not change during the period, even though injuries have become increasingly severe (judged by the Injury Severity Score). It is concluded that the improved care of patients compensated precisely for the increased severity of injuries, as reflected in mortality.", "PMID": 432565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1147", "title": "Risk factors for premature death in men 56--60 years old. A prospective study of men born 1914, living in Malm\u00f6, Sweden.", "content": "In a five-year follow-up of a random sample of men aged 55 the association between risk factors and premature death was analysed. The overall mortality in five years was 5.8%. The mortality among the smokers was 8%; among non-smokers 2%. Of 16 cancer deaths all were smokers except one who was an ex-smoker. In spite of treatment of hypertension (greater than 165/110 mmHg) there was an association between high blood pressure and premature death, particularly when cause of death was cardiovascular disease. There was no association between premature death and serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides or physical activity. The study is based on 703 men, of whom 41 died. The autopsy frequency was 93%. Only 3 men (0.4%) were lost to follow-up.", "contents": "Risk factors for premature death in men 56--60 years old. A prospective study of men born 1914, living in Malm\u00f6, Sweden. In a five-year follow-up of a random sample of men aged 55 the association between risk factors and premature death was analysed. The overall mortality in five years was 5.8%. The mortality among the smokers was 8%; among non-smokers 2%. Of 16 cancer deaths all were smokers except one who was an ex-smoker. In spite of treatment of hypertension (greater than 165/110 mmHg) there was an association between high blood pressure and premature death, particularly when cause of death was cardiovascular disease. There was no association between premature death and serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides or physical activity. The study is based on 703 men, of whom 41 died. The autopsy frequency was 93%. Only 3 men (0.4%) were lost to follow-up.", "PMID": 432566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1148", "title": "What part does the occupational environment play in the occurrence of accidents? Views of accident victims, their fellow-workers, safety delegates, and enterprise managements.", "content": "In a survey of occupational accident cases admitted to Malm\u00f6 General Hospital during a period in 1974, interviews were carried out with the accident victims, and, at their work places, with their fellow-workers, safety delegates, and management representatives as well. The interviewees were asked to express their views on aspects of the occupation environment, which might have had a bearing on the causes of the accident in question, for instance noise, harmful substances, physical and mental stress and accident risks. The results showed wide variations between the views of the four groups regarding the same environment situation and the actual accident. Often the explanations were rather descriptions of \"supernatural\" concepts in other words. This means that in this field there is a great need for an objective instrument for the analysis of accidents and their circumstances. There is no such instrument available today and there is a growing need to develop accident research and its methods, as well as of a practical instrument for the safety work. There is also a need for a more qualitative analysis of accidents. To this end we used a model developed by J. Surry (4) and later modified by the Swedish Work Environment Fund (5). A further development of this model is proposed.", "contents": "What part does the occupational environment play in the occurrence of accidents? Views of accident victims, their fellow-workers, safety delegates, and enterprise managements. In a survey of occupational accident cases admitted to Malm\u00f6 General Hospital during a period in 1974, interviews were carried out with the accident victims, and, at their work places, with their fellow-workers, safety delegates, and management representatives as well. The interviewees were asked to express their views on aspects of the occupation environment, which might have had a bearing on the causes of the accident in question, for instance noise, harmful substances, physical and mental stress and accident risks. The results showed wide variations between the views of the four groups regarding the same environment situation and the actual accident. Often the explanations were rather descriptions of \"supernatural\" concepts in other words. This means that in this field there is a great need for an objective instrument for the analysis of accidents and their circumstances. There is no such instrument available today and there is a growing need to develop accident research and its methods, as well as of a practical instrument for the safety work. There is also a need for a more qualitative analysis of accidents. To this end we used a model developed by J. Surry (4) and later modified by the Swedish Work Environment Fund (5). A further development of this model is proposed.", "PMID": 432567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1149", "title": "Surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly. Early and late results in seven consecutive cases.", "content": "The surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly is discussed on the basis of our experience with 7 patients who underwent operation at this clinic during the last ten years. The age of the patients (2 males, 5 females) ranged from 17 to 47 years (mean 27 years) at the time of operation. Two patients were in functional class II and five in classes III or IV (N.Y.H.A.). The Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome was concomitant in 2/7 cases and patent foramen ovale or atrial septal defect (ASD) with right-to-left shunt was present in 6/7 cases. The valvular anomaly was typical in 5 patients and stenosis of displaced tricuspid leaflets into right ventricular outflow region was detected in two patients. Tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) with disc valve prosthesis was performed in 5 patients (Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley model in 4 cases, Kay-Shiley model in one) and tricuspid valve commissurotomy in two patients. All six patients with interatrial communication underwent closure of this communication simultaneously. One patient had concomitant epicardial mapping and attempted division of the anomalous conduction pathways was unsuccessful. This patient died on the 14th postoperative day from ventricular fibrillation. No other early or late mortality was recorded. Life-long anticoagulation therapy was introduced in all 5 patients with TVR. Thrombotic malfunction of the prosthetic valves necessitated re-operation and new prosthetic valve replacement in two patients 15 and 16 months after the first TVR. One of these patients had recurrent prosthetic thrombosis twice which was successfully treated with streptokinase. The other patient's prosthesis is functioning well 18 months after re-operation. All 6 long-term survivors were improved and remained in good condition, in functional class I, 1, 3, 3, 8, 9, and 10 years, respectively, after operation.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly. Early and late results in seven consecutive cases. The surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly is discussed on the basis of our experience with 7 patients who underwent operation at this clinic during the last ten years. The age of the patients (2 males, 5 females) ranged from 17 to 47 years (mean 27 years) at the time of operation. Two patients were in functional class II and five in classes III or IV (N.Y.H.A.). The Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome was concomitant in 2/7 cases and patent foramen ovale or atrial septal defect (ASD) with right-to-left shunt was present in 6/7 cases. The valvular anomaly was typical in 5 patients and stenosis of displaced tricuspid leaflets into right ventricular outflow region was detected in two patients. Tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) with disc valve prosthesis was performed in 5 patients (Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley model in 4 cases, Kay-Shiley model in one) and tricuspid valve commissurotomy in two patients. All six patients with interatrial communication underwent closure of this communication simultaneously. One patient had concomitant epicardial mapping and attempted division of the anomalous conduction pathways was unsuccessful. This patient died on the 14th postoperative day from ventricular fibrillation. No other early or late mortality was recorded. Life-long anticoagulation therapy was introduced in all 5 patients with TVR. Thrombotic malfunction of the prosthetic valves necessitated re-operation and new prosthetic valve replacement in two patients 15 and 16 months after the first TVR. One of these patients had recurrent prosthetic thrombosis twice which was successfully treated with streptokinase. The other patient's prosthesis is functioning well 18 months after re-operation. All 6 long-term survivors were improved and remained in good condition, in functional class I, 1, 3, 3, 8, 9, and 10 years, respectively, after operation.", "PMID": 432568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1150", "title": "Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage.", "content": "Twelve patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) underwent complete surgical correction. Six were of the supracardiac type, 2 were cardiac and 4 of the infracardiac type. Pulmonary hypertension due to pulmonary vein obstruction was present in 6 patients. There were 6 early deaths, which occurred on the table or soon after surgery. One patient died 8 months after the operation because of a marked obstruction of the pulmonary venous inflow. Early diagnosis and operative correction in these severely ill patients should not be delayed. Postoperative intensive care and long-term follow-up are of the greatest importance.", "contents": "Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. Twelve patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) underwent complete surgical correction. Six were of the supracardiac type, 2 were cardiac and 4 of the infracardiac type. Pulmonary hypertension due to pulmonary vein obstruction was present in 6 patients. There were 6 early deaths, which occurred on the table or soon after surgery. One patient died 8 months after the operation because of a marked obstruction of the pulmonary venous inflow. Early diagnosis and operative correction in these severely ill patients should not be delayed. Postoperative intensive care and long-term follow-up are of the greatest importance.", "PMID": 432569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1151", "title": "Anomalous pulmonary venous drainage from the left lung to the right atrium. Successful surgical treatment in an 11-year-old girl.", "content": "An 11-year-old girl with anomalous pulmonary venous drainage from the left lung to the right atrium was corrected by anastomosing the anomalous trunk to the left auricular appendage. Postoperatively she developed a left-sided chylothorax which resolved on medical treatment. A postoperative angiocardiography one year after surgery showed a well-functioning anastomosis.", "contents": "Anomalous pulmonary venous drainage from the left lung to the right atrium. Successful surgical treatment in an 11-year-old girl. An 11-year-old girl with anomalous pulmonary venous drainage from the left lung to the right atrium was corrected by anastomosing the anomalous trunk to the left auricular appendage. Postoperatively she developed a left-sided chylothorax which resolved on medical treatment. A postoperative angiocardiography one year after surgery showed a well-functioning anastomosis.", "PMID": 432570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1152", "title": "Our experience with the Carpentier-Edwards bioprosthesis.", "content": "Sixty Carpentier-Edwards porcine valve bioprostheses stabilized with glutaraldehyde were implanted in 55 patients with acquired and congenital heart disease. The follow-up period ranged between 1 and 12 months. There were 3 hospital deaths (5%) and 2 late deaths (4%) in 24 mitral, 24 aortic, 5 mitral-aortic, 1 tricuspid and 1 pulmonary valve replacements. All patients were anticoagulated from the second postoperative day onwards for a period of 3 months after which those with sinus rhythm had their anticoagulants withdrawn. Paravalvular leakage led to re-operation in 3 cases (4%). No valve failure due to cusp rupture was encountered and no thromboembolic complications have occurred. Thirty-three patients were studied postoperatively by non-invasive methods and the results are presented.", "contents": "Our experience with the Carpentier-Edwards bioprosthesis. Sixty Carpentier-Edwards porcine valve bioprostheses stabilized with glutaraldehyde were implanted in 55 patients with acquired and congenital heart disease. The follow-up period ranged between 1 and 12 months. There were 3 hospital deaths (5%) and 2 late deaths (4%) in 24 mitral, 24 aortic, 5 mitral-aortic, 1 tricuspid and 1 pulmonary valve replacements. All patients were anticoagulated from the second postoperative day onwards for a period of 3 months after which those with sinus rhythm had their anticoagulants withdrawn. Paravalvular leakage led to re-operation in 3 cases (4%). No valve failure due to cusp rupture was encountered and no thromboembolic complications have occurred. Thirty-three patients were studied postoperatively by non-invasive methods and the results are presented.", "PMID": 432571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1153", "title": "Fresh autologous blood in open-heart surgery. Influence on blood requirements, bleeding and platelet counts.", "content": "The role of fresh autologous blood on haemostasis was studied in 30 patients undergoing aortic valve replacement. All the patients were extremely haemodiluted during the perfusion by using a non-haemic priming solution and withdrawal of 15% of the blood volume at the start of operation. In half of the patients, the autologous blood was retransfused immediately after the termination of perfusion. In the other half, donor blood was given in this period, while the retransfusion of autologous blood was delayed until three hours postoperatively. An increase of circulating platelets was found after the withdrawal of blood and replacement with double the amount of Ringer's acetate. Significantly less donor blood and plasma was transfused in the patients receiving early transfusion of autologous blood. An average reduction of 36% donor blood and 45% plasma was obtained. The blood losses were also less in these patients, but the differences were not significant.", "contents": "Fresh autologous blood in open-heart surgery. Influence on blood requirements, bleeding and platelet counts. The role of fresh autologous blood on haemostasis was studied in 30 patients undergoing aortic valve replacement. All the patients were extremely haemodiluted during the perfusion by using a non-haemic priming solution and withdrawal of 15% of the blood volume at the start of operation. In half of the patients, the autologous blood was retransfused immediately after the termination of perfusion. In the other half, donor blood was given in this period, while the retransfusion of autologous blood was delayed until three hours postoperatively. An increase of circulating platelets was found after the withdrawal of blood and replacement with double the amount of Ringer's acetate. Significantly less donor blood and plasma was transfused in the patients receiving early transfusion of autologous blood. An average reduction of 36% donor blood and 45% plasma was obtained. The blood losses were also less in these patients, but the differences were not significant.", "PMID": 432572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1154", "title": "Myocardial protection during heart surgery. An experimental evaluation of normothermic and hypothermic cardioplegia.", "content": "Heart surgery with hypothermic cardioplegia during normothermic bypass is sometimes complicated by rewarming of the myocardium caused by collateral flow of arterial blood. This problem is particularly evident in surgery of congenital malformations. The present work is a comparative study in dogs on 3 methods of avoiding the rewarming problem. In the first group, the heart was kept cold and the warm blood was drained off from the left atrium. In the second group, total body hypothermia to the level desired was used and in the third group, normothermic cardioplegia was induced (Cardioplegin) in normothermic animals. In the two latter groups, the undesired temperature gradient between heart and body was eliminated. Evaluation of the differences was made by means of ventricular function determinations. Local, hypothermic cardioplegia showed the best postoperative function (69%) followed by the total body cooling which was fully acceptable (41%). Normothermic cardioplegia after the same duration of arrest showed a too low myocardial performance (20%).", "contents": "Myocardial protection during heart surgery. An experimental evaluation of normothermic and hypothermic cardioplegia. Heart surgery with hypothermic cardioplegia during normothermic bypass is sometimes complicated by rewarming of the myocardium caused by collateral flow of arterial blood. This problem is particularly evident in surgery of congenital malformations. The present work is a comparative study in dogs on 3 methods of avoiding the rewarming problem. In the first group, the heart was kept cold and the warm blood was drained off from the left atrium. In the second group, total body hypothermia to the level desired was used and in the third group, normothermic cardioplegia was induced (Cardioplegin) in normothermic animals. In the two latter groups, the undesired temperature gradient between heart and body was eliminated. Evaluation of the differences was made by means of ventricular function determinations. Local, hypothermic cardioplegia showed the best postoperative function (69%) followed by the total body cooling which was fully acceptable (41%). Normothermic cardioplegia after the same duration of arrest showed a too low myocardial performance (20%).", "PMID": 432573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1155", "title": "Spontaneously thrombosing congenital crural arteriovenous fistulas. Report of a case.", "content": "A report of spontaneously thrombosing arteriovenous fistulas in the popliteal and crural region jeopardizing the peripheral circulation is presented. A favourable effect was achieved with a femoral-posterior tibial bypass utilising a great saphenous graft.", "contents": "Spontaneously thrombosing congenital crural arteriovenous fistulas. Report of a case. A report of spontaneously thrombosing arteriovenous fistulas in the popliteal and crural region jeopardizing the peripheral circulation is presented. A favourable effect was achieved with a femoral-posterior tibial bypass utilising a great saphenous graft.", "PMID": 432574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1156", "title": "Results of surgical treatment of arterial embolism.", "content": "A report is given of the results obtained by surgical intervention in 260 patients with arterial embolism involving the extremities, in whom a total of 299 emboli devloped. Excellent results were obtained in 63.5% of the cases. It is emphasized that embolectomy is indicated in all cases, irrespective of the interval between onset of symptoms and surgery, unless gangrene of the limb is manifest. Furthermore, re-operation is is recommended on patients in whom fresh clots develop in the artery after an otherwise successful embolectomy. The mortality rate proved to be relatively high (28%) and the causes thereof are discussed.", "contents": "Results of surgical treatment of arterial embolism. A report is given of the results obtained by surgical intervention in 260 patients with arterial embolism involving the extremities, in whom a total of 299 emboli devloped. Excellent results were obtained in 63.5% of the cases. It is emphasized that embolectomy is indicated in all cases, irrespective of the interval between onset of symptoms and surgery, unless gangrene of the limb is manifest. Furthermore, re-operation is is recommended on patients in whom fresh clots develop in the artery after an otherwise successful embolectomy. The mortality rate proved to be relatively high (28%) and the causes thereof are discussed.", "PMID": 432575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1157", "title": "Tissue gas tensions in the calf muscles of patients with lower limb arterial ischaemia.", "content": "O2 and CO2 tensions were measured in the gastrocnemius muscles of patients submitted for reconstructive arterial surgery due to obstructive arteriosclerosis (37) or abdominal aortic aneurysm (5). Four patients without signs of arterial ischaemia served as controls. Measurements were carried out by means of implanted silastic tonometers during breathing of air and 100% O2 and immediately after walking on a treadmill. Peripheral blood pressures in the ankles were recorded with a Doppler apparatus. Baseline tissue gas tensions showed no essential differences between the various groups of patients: intermittent claudication, pain at rest, praegangrene, abdominal aortic aneurysm and controls. In contrast, baseline ankle pressures correlated well with the severity of the disease. During breathing of oxygen, the smallest increases of muscle PO2 were observed in extremities with pain at rest or praegangrene and the highest responses were recorded in controls and aneurysm patients. Muscle PCO2 values showed no alterations during oxygen breathing. In physical exercise, muscle PO2 and PCO2 levels as well as ankle blood pressures remained unchanged in controls and patients with aneurysm but no claudication. However, in all groups with arterial ischaemia, the exercise test resulted in a profound fall of muscle PO2 and ankle blood pressure and an increase of muscle PCO2.", "contents": "Tissue gas tensions in the calf muscles of patients with lower limb arterial ischaemia. O2 and CO2 tensions were measured in the gastrocnemius muscles of patients submitted for reconstructive arterial surgery due to obstructive arteriosclerosis (37) or abdominal aortic aneurysm (5). Four patients without signs of arterial ischaemia served as controls. Measurements were carried out by means of implanted silastic tonometers during breathing of air and 100% O2 and immediately after walking on a treadmill. Peripheral blood pressures in the ankles were recorded with a Doppler apparatus. Baseline tissue gas tensions showed no essential differences between the various groups of patients: intermittent claudication, pain at rest, praegangrene, abdominal aortic aneurysm and controls. In contrast, baseline ankle pressures correlated well with the severity of the disease. During breathing of oxygen, the smallest increases of muscle PO2 were observed in extremities with pain at rest or praegangrene and the highest responses were recorded in controls and aneurysm patients. Muscle PCO2 values showed no alterations during oxygen breathing. In physical exercise, muscle PO2 and PCO2 levels as well as ankle blood pressures remained unchanged in controls and patients with aneurysm but no claudication. However, in all groups with arterial ischaemia, the exercise test resulted in a profound fall of muscle PO2 and ankle blood pressure and an increase of muscle PCO2.", "PMID": 432576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1158", "title": "Current status of parietal pleurectomy in recurrent pneumothorax.", "content": "Parietal pleurectomy was devised as definitive treatment in a series of 50 patients with persistent or recurrent pneumothorax. There have been no significant complications; 3-5 year follow-up has shown no recurrence, indicating that pleurectomy is a safe and reliable procedure and preferred to chemically or mechanically induced pleuritis because it entails fewer complications and shortens hospitalization.", "contents": "Current status of parietal pleurectomy in recurrent pneumothorax. Parietal pleurectomy was devised as definitive treatment in a series of 50 patients with persistent or recurrent pneumothorax. There have been no significant complications; 3-5 year follow-up has shown no recurrence, indicating that pleurectomy is a safe and reliable procedure and preferred to chemically or mechanically induced pleuritis because it entails fewer complications and shortens hospitalization.", "PMID": 432577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1159", "title": "[Sociopharmacology--psychoactive drugs as an example].", "content": "Psychoactive drugs influence the social behavior of men and primates deeply. Many neuroleptics block the activity of social learning and therefore have an antitherapeutic effect. Sociopharmacology deals with drug effects which have no pharmacological basis: placebo effects, and physician and patient expectations from the drug which may lead to self-fulfillling prophecies. When the physician is prescribing psychoactive drugs he is under numerous influences: the expectations of the patient; the pressure of his therapeutic helplessness in view of many odd illnesses which cannot be explained somatically; his professional obligation to treat the patient; and marketing. The importance of a trusting doctor-patient relationship as a pre-requisite for successful treatment with psychoactive drugs is discussed.", "contents": "[Sociopharmacology--psychoactive drugs as an example]. Psychoactive drugs influence the social behavior of men and primates deeply. Many neuroleptics block the activity of social learning and therefore have an antitherapeutic effect. Sociopharmacology deals with drug effects which have no pharmacological basis: placebo effects, and physician and patient expectations from the drug which may lead to self-fulfillling prophecies. When the physician is prescribing psychoactive drugs he is under numerous influences: the expectations of the patient; the pressure of his therapeutic helplessness in view of many odd illnesses which cannot be explained somatically; his professional obligation to treat the patient; and marketing. The importance of a trusting doctor-patient relationship as a pre-requisite for successful treatment with psychoactive drugs is discussed.", "PMID": 432578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1160", "title": "[Recurring loss of conciousness with middle brain symptoms in migraine].", "content": "A 49-year-old woman subject to frequent migraine attacks since childhood was seen for repeated episodes of confusion followed by loss of consciousness lasting for several hours. EEG during the acute stages showed marked slowing with bifrontal monorhythmic delta waves. After each episode, both the clinical and EEG findings subsided within hours. A similar course is described in a man who died at the age of 69 after preterminal mental deterioration. Autopsy showed evidence of bilateral damage to the hippocampal regions, apparently due to frequent impairment of perfusion in the last years of life. Atherosclerotic changes were within the normal range for his age. In both cases, the ischemic episodes are interpreted as consequences of constriction of the basilar artery, and it is assumed that the underlying mechanism is at least akin to that of migraine.", "contents": "[Recurring loss of conciousness with middle brain symptoms in migraine]. A 49-year-old woman subject to frequent migraine attacks since childhood was seen for repeated episodes of confusion followed by loss of consciousness lasting for several hours. EEG during the acute stages showed marked slowing with bifrontal monorhythmic delta waves. After each episode, both the clinical and EEG findings subsided within hours. A similar course is described in a man who died at the age of 69 after preterminal mental deterioration. Autopsy showed evidence of bilateral damage to the hippocampal regions, apparently due to frequent impairment of perfusion in the last years of life. Atherosclerotic changes were within the normal range for his age. In both cases, the ischemic episodes are interpreted as consequences of constriction of the basilar artery, and it is assumed that the underlying mechanism is at least akin to that of migraine.", "PMID": 432579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1161", "title": "[Thorascopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic precaution in lung and pleural diseases].", "content": "Thoracoscopy is a method involving little discomfort for the patient but of high diagnostic effectiveness for pleural alterations. A histological diagnosis was established in 56 cases out of a total of 60 pleural effusions of unknown origin. In 10 pleural or pleuropulmonary diseases, anatomical classification was possible in all cases. In cases of pneumothorax (21 patients) the bronchopleural fistula could very often be seen and closure by detaching of pleural adhesions or cauterization was possible. These manipulations are usually followed by insufflation of sterile talcum powder through the thoracoscope. Suspicion of ruptured diaphragm due to accident was easily and quickly verified. No complications occurred in our 100 thoracoscopic examinations.", "contents": "[Thorascopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic precaution in lung and pleural diseases]. Thoracoscopy is a method involving little discomfort for the patient but of high diagnostic effectiveness for pleural alterations. A histological diagnosis was established in 56 cases out of a total of 60 pleural effusions of unknown origin. In 10 pleural or pleuropulmonary diseases, anatomical classification was possible in all cases. In cases of pneumothorax (21 patients) the bronchopleural fistula could very often be seen and closure by detaching of pleural adhesions or cauterization was possible. These manipulations are usually followed by insufflation of sterile talcum powder through the thoracoscope. Suspicion of ruptured diaphragm due to accident was easily and quickly verified. No complications occurred in our 100 thoracoscopic examinations.", "PMID": 432580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1162", "title": "[Physicians: how might patients see you and how do we see ourselves? A questionnaire concerning the physician-patient relationship].", "content": "Patients and doctors in specialized surgical, medical and gynecological clinics in the Zurich area replied to the Giessen test and a questionnaire on their attitude towards work. The results suggest that the traditional idea of the doctor-patient relationship as propagated by medical sociology (e.g. PARSONS) seems rather to correspond to patients' stereotyped (projective) ideals, but positively not to the realistic self-assessment of doctors. Doctors do not depict themselves as being as socially esteemed, self-satisfied and self-assured about their skills as patients would like them to do.", "contents": "[Physicians: how might patients see you and how do we see ourselves? A questionnaire concerning the physician-patient relationship]. Patients and doctors in specialized surgical, medical and gynecological clinics in the Zurich area replied to the Giessen test and a questionnaire on their attitude towards work. The results suggest that the traditional idea of the doctor-patient relationship as propagated by medical sociology (e.g. PARSONS) seems rather to correspond to patients' stereotyped (projective) ideals, but positively not to the realistic self-assessment of doctors. Doctors do not depict themselves as being as socially esteemed, self-satisfied and self-assured about their skills as patients would like them to do.", "PMID": 432581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1163", "title": "[Cimetidine versus antacids].", "content": "The rationale of ulcer therapy with cimetidine or antacids is to block or neutralize gastric acid secretion intragastrically. 5 tablets of cimetidine can inhibit gastric acid secretion in duodenal ulcer patients by more than 50% over a 24-hour period. Approximately 250 ml per day of a highly active antacid is necessary to achieve a similar effect. The effect of cimetidine on night secretion is superior. In acute ulcer attack cimetidine brings about healing of the ulcer in duodenal ulcer disease in about 80% of all patients in about 4-6 weeks, and a maintenance dose of 200 mg in the evening may prevent a recurrence within a year in about 50% of all patients. According to American studies, antacid therapy in the above-mentioned dosage may achieve a similar healing rate in duodenal ulcer patients in acute attack. However, it is unknown whether high antacid therapy prevents ulcer recurrences. If acceptability of the treatment by the patient, side effects and costs are taken into account, cimetidine appears to be superior to high doses of antacid. However, it must be considered that in many European countries, including Switzerland, the spontaneous healing rate is up to 60% in placebo studies. It is thus legitimate to continue treating uncomplicated ulcers with the small antacid doses customary in Europe.", "contents": "[Cimetidine versus antacids]. The rationale of ulcer therapy with cimetidine or antacids is to block or neutralize gastric acid secretion intragastrically. 5 tablets of cimetidine can inhibit gastric acid secretion in duodenal ulcer patients by more than 50% over a 24-hour period. Approximately 250 ml per day of a highly active antacid is necessary to achieve a similar effect. The effect of cimetidine on night secretion is superior. In acute ulcer attack cimetidine brings about healing of the ulcer in duodenal ulcer disease in about 80% of all patients in about 4-6 weeks, and a maintenance dose of 200 mg in the evening may prevent a recurrence within a year in about 50% of all patients. According to American studies, antacid therapy in the above-mentioned dosage may achieve a similar healing rate in duodenal ulcer patients in acute attack. However, it is unknown whether high antacid therapy prevents ulcer recurrences. If acceptability of the treatment by the patient, side effects and costs are taken into account, cimetidine appears to be superior to high doses of antacid. However, it must be considered that in many European countries, including Switzerland, the spontaneous healing rate is up to 60% in placebo studies. It is thus legitimate to continue treating uncomplicated ulcers with the small antacid doses customary in Europe.", "PMID": 432582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1164", "title": "[Generalized periarticular calcinosis. Generalized hydroxylapatite disease].", "content": "The complex of symptoms know as generalized periarticular calcinosis is a disease observed clinically as occurring in periods lasting only a few days, and with a mainly monoarticular arthritic or tenosynovitis character which may be localized in various joints. A primary chronic course of the disease is rare. Crucial for the diagnosis is the demonstration of multiple periarticular calcifications, which can be identified biochemically as hydroxyapatite. The calcification probably initiates the burst of inflammation, and for this reason the symptoms can be certainly classified pathogenically as a crystalline synovitis. Etiologically, the disease is probably due to both genetic and acquired metabolic anomalies. Modification of calcification cannot be undertaken in our present ignorance of the exact pathogenesis, and for this reason the therapy of generalized periarthritis must remain symptomatic. The effect of non-steroid antiphlogistics, corticosteroids and colchicin is, however, unsatisfactory.", "contents": "[Generalized periarticular calcinosis. Generalized hydroxylapatite disease]. The complex of symptoms know as generalized periarticular calcinosis is a disease observed clinically as occurring in periods lasting only a few days, and with a mainly monoarticular arthritic or tenosynovitis character which may be localized in various joints. A primary chronic course of the disease is rare. Crucial for the diagnosis is the demonstration of multiple periarticular calcifications, which can be identified biochemically as hydroxyapatite. The calcification probably initiates the burst of inflammation, and for this reason the symptoms can be certainly classified pathogenically as a crystalline synovitis. Etiologically, the disease is probably due to both genetic and acquired metabolic anomalies. Modification of calcification cannot be undertaken in our present ignorance of the exact pathogenesis, and for this reason the therapy of generalized periarthritis must remain symptomatic. The effect of non-steroid antiphlogistics, corticosteroids and colchicin is, however, unsatisfactory.", "PMID": 432583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1165", "title": "[Isoelectric electroencephalography approximately 6 hours after ventricular fibrillation due to myocardial infarct. Apropos of a case with favorable development].", "content": "A 59-year-old patient was resuscitated after ventricular fibrillation due to anterior myocardial infarction. Ventilatory and cardiac arrest lasted for more than 20 minutes. 5 h 50 min later the EEG was isoelectric. The evolution was nevertheless favourable and the patient was able to leave hospital one month later and to resume work half-time 5 months later. The problems of anoxic ischemic encephalopathies, isoelectric EEG and their treatment are discussed.", "contents": "[Isoelectric electroencephalography approximately 6 hours after ventricular fibrillation due to myocardial infarct. Apropos of a case with favorable development]. A 59-year-old patient was resuscitated after ventricular fibrillation due to anterior myocardial infarction. Ventilatory and cardiac arrest lasted for more than 20 minutes. 5 h 50 min later the EEG was isoelectric. The evolution was nevertheless favourable and the patient was able to leave hospital one month later and to resume work half-time 5 months later. The problems of anoxic ischemic encephalopathies, isoelectric EEG and their treatment are discussed.", "PMID": 432585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1166", "title": "The surgical treatment of duodenal ulcer.", "content": "Based on experience of a pilot series of 100 patients treated by parietal cell vagotomy (PCV) and a prospective clinical comparison between PCV (in some cases with drainage added) and selective gastric vagotomy (SGV) with drainage (D) or antrectomy (A) in some 900 patients, the following conclusions can be drawn: PCV is followed by virtually no sequelae. When drainage is added this is no longer the case and the results are the same as those following SGV + D. PCV and SGV + D show the same recurrence rate at 3 years (approx. 7%). Men do better than women after PCV but not after SGV + D. Preoperative gastric acid secretion had no predictive value in these studies. In non-obstructing duodenal ulcer the surgical choice appears to be between PCV (no sequelae) and SGV + A (no recurrence). The optimal operation for prepyloric ulcer cannot as yet be determined.", "contents": "The surgical treatment of duodenal ulcer. Based on experience of a pilot series of 100 patients treated by parietal cell vagotomy (PCV) and a prospective clinical comparison between PCV (in some cases with drainage added) and selective gastric vagotomy (SGV) with drainage (D) or antrectomy (A) in some 900 patients, the following conclusions can be drawn: PCV is followed by virtually no sequelae. When drainage is added this is no longer the case and the results are the same as those following SGV + D. PCV and SGV + D show the same recurrence rate at 3 years (approx. 7%). Men do better than women after PCV but not after SGV + D. Preoperative gastric acid secretion had no predictive value in these studies. In non-obstructing duodenal ulcer the surgical choice appears to be between PCV (no sequelae) and SGV + A (no recurrence). The optimal operation for prepyloric ulcer cannot as yet be determined.", "PMID": 432586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1167", "title": "[Dosage dependence of the effect of somatostatin on human splanchnic blood flow].", "content": "The effect of three different doses of somatostatin on splanchnic blood flow (SBF) and on arterial plasma insulin, glucagon and glucose was determined. 125, 250 and 500 microgram/h of somatostatin was infused during 60 minutes in 3 groups of 6 patients undergoing arterial-hepatic-venous catheterization; no patient had clinical evidence of metabolitic or hepatic disease. Continuous infusion of 125 microgram/h somatostatin was without significant effect on SBF, whereas 250 microgram/h resulted in a mean 28% reduction of SBF (p less than 0.05). Doubling the dose to 500 microgram/h affected SBF similarly (21% reduction of SBF). In contrast, administration of all three doses of somatostatin suppressed the circulating insulin and glucagon levels significantly. In a recent report somatostatin had been administered in a dose of 250 microgram/h to control gastric ulcer hemorrhage. The present studies demonstrate that this dose results in a significant reduction of SBF which cannot be further depressed by increasing the dose.", "contents": "[Dosage dependence of the effect of somatostatin on human splanchnic blood flow]. The effect of three different doses of somatostatin on splanchnic blood flow (SBF) and on arterial plasma insulin, glucagon and glucose was determined. 125, 250 and 500 microgram/h of somatostatin was infused during 60 minutes in 3 groups of 6 patients undergoing arterial-hepatic-venous catheterization; no patient had clinical evidence of metabolitic or hepatic disease. Continuous infusion of 125 microgram/h somatostatin was without significant effect on SBF, whereas 250 microgram/h resulted in a mean 28% reduction of SBF (p less than 0.05). Doubling the dose to 500 microgram/h affected SBF similarly (21% reduction of SBF). In contrast, administration of all three doses of somatostatin suppressed the circulating insulin and glucagon levels significantly. In a recent report somatostatin had been administered in a dose of 250 microgram/h to control gastric ulcer hemorrhage. The present studies demonstrate that this dose results in a significant reduction of SBF which cannot be further depressed by increasing the dose.", "PMID": 432587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1168", "title": "[Caerulein and the test meal: a comparison of their effects on pancreatic exocrine secretion in the dog].", "content": "Relatively small doses of caerulein (10, 20, 40, 100 ng/kg/h) were given to conscious dogs with chronic duodenal and gastric fistulas and the exocrine pancreatic response was compared with that obtained by a test meal. Test meal stimulated pancreatic secretion was nearly equivalent to that achieved with 10 ng caerulein/kg/h. Plasma secretin levels did not significantly change during test meal stimulation.", "contents": "[Caerulein and the test meal: a comparison of their effects on pancreatic exocrine secretion in the dog]. Relatively small doses of caerulein (10, 20, 40, 100 ng/kg/h) were given to conscious dogs with chronic duodenal and gastric fistulas and the exocrine pancreatic response was compared with that obtained by a test meal. Test meal stimulated pancreatic secretion was nearly equivalent to that achieved with 10 ng caerulein/kg/h. Plasma secretin levels did not significantly change during test meal stimulation.", "PMID": 432588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1169", "title": "[Fractional distribution of anti-glucagon immunoreactivity (GIR) and amino acid concentration in the plasma in duodenopancreatectomized patients; preliminary report].", "content": "Glucagon immunoreactivity (IRG) was measured in plasma of 8 duodenopancreatectomized patients with antiserum 30-K. Arginine infusions failed to raise plasma IRG, whereas in control subjects IRG rose 3-fold. Column chromatography revealed that the basal IRG measured in these plasmas was not due to glucagon (molecular weight 3485) but to other plasma factors, mainly of high molecular weight. This suggests that diabetes mellitus does not require the presence of glucagon to produce the clinical picture, as suggested by other authors. Plasma levels of the amino acids alanine, serine, ornithine, and arginine were significantly (p less than 0.05) elevated, the former two being gluconeogenic substrates and the latter two constituents of the urea cycle. This amino acid abnormality may be a consequence of glucagon deficiency.", "contents": "[Fractional distribution of anti-glucagon immunoreactivity (GIR) and amino acid concentration in the plasma in duodenopancreatectomized patients; preliminary report]. Glucagon immunoreactivity (IRG) was measured in plasma of 8 duodenopancreatectomized patients with antiserum 30-K. Arginine infusions failed to raise plasma IRG, whereas in control subjects IRG rose 3-fold. Column chromatography revealed that the basal IRG measured in these plasmas was not due to glucagon (molecular weight 3485) but to other plasma factors, mainly of high molecular weight. This suggests that diabetes mellitus does not require the presence of glucagon to produce the clinical picture, as suggested by other authors. Plasma levels of the amino acids alanine, serine, ornithine, and arginine were significantly (p less than 0.05) elevated, the former two being gluconeogenic substrates and the latter two constituents of the urea cycle. This amino acid abnormality may be a consequence of glucagon deficiency.", "PMID": 432589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1170", "title": "[Angiodysplasia of the colon: diagnosis and therapy].", "content": "Angiodysplasias of the colon are rare causes of intestinal bleeding. Diagnosis is by angiography or colonoscopy. In 6 patients with severe anemia in whom conventional methods had failed to reveal the source of bleeding, colonoscopy demonstrated angiodysplasias in the cecum or ascending colon. They were treated endoscopically. In a follow-up period of 3 months to 4 years only 1 patient has sometimes suffered occult fecal blood loss, but is adequately treated by oral iron therapy. No patient has had a severe recurrence of bleeding, nor was colonic resection necessary. It is concluded that endoscopic therapy of angiodysplasias is a valuable alternative to surgery with low risk and high efficiency.", "contents": "[Angiodysplasia of the colon: diagnosis and therapy]. Angiodysplasias of the colon are rare causes of intestinal bleeding. Diagnosis is by angiography or colonoscopy. In 6 patients with severe anemia in whom conventional methods had failed to reveal the source of bleeding, colonoscopy demonstrated angiodysplasias in the cecum or ascending colon. They were treated endoscopically. In a follow-up period of 3 months to 4 years only 1 patient has sometimes suffered occult fecal blood loss, but is adequately treated by oral iron therapy. No patient has had a severe recurrence of bleeding, nor was colonic resection necessary. It is concluded that endoscopic therapy of angiodysplasias is a valuable alternative to surgery with low risk and high efficiency.", "PMID": 432590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1171", "title": "[Nonspecific ulcer of the colon: a report on 12 endoscopically diagnosed cases].", "content": "Report on 12 patients with nonspecific ulcers of the colon diagnosed by colonscopy and biopsy. In 10 patients the course was favorable with conservative management. In 2 patients the symptoms were aggravated; in both patients this was due to a penetrating malignant tumour diagnosed at laparotomy a few weeks later. It is proposed that nonspecific ulcers of the colon should be managed conservatively. Further investigations and laparotomy are indicated only when symptoms progress.", "contents": "[Nonspecific ulcer of the colon: a report on 12 endoscopically diagnosed cases]. Report on 12 patients with nonspecific ulcers of the colon diagnosed by colonscopy and biopsy. In 10 patients the course was favorable with conservative management. In 2 patients the symptoms were aggravated; in both patients this was due to a penetrating malignant tumour diagnosed at laparotomy a few weeks later. It is proposed that nonspecific ulcers of the colon should be managed conservatively. Further investigations and laparotomy are indicated only when symptoms progress.", "PMID": 432591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1172", "title": "[Prospective study of digestive tumor detection by endoscopy: a comparison of brush cytology and histology].", "content": "The diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic appearance, histology and brush cytology has been compared in a prospective study of 192 cases involving esogastric lesions. Macroscopic diagnosis of malignancy was more frequent in benign lesions (23/145) than in true malignancies (21/42). Histology was positive in 29/36 tumors and cytology in 23/36. In cytology there were no false negatives in esophageal tumors, but there were 52% false negatives in gastric tumors and 66% in carcinoma in situ. The combination of the 2 methods resulted in a correct diagnosis in 86% of the tumors in this study.", "contents": "[Prospective study of digestive tumor detection by endoscopy: a comparison of brush cytology and histology]. The diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic appearance, histology and brush cytology has been compared in a prospective study of 192 cases involving esogastric lesions. Macroscopic diagnosis of malignancy was more frequent in benign lesions (23/145) than in true malignancies (21/42). Histology was positive in 29/36 tumors and cytology in 23/36. In cytology there were no false negatives in esophageal tumors, but there were 52% false negatives in gastric tumors and 66% in carcinoma in situ. The combination of the 2 methods resulted in a correct diagnosis in 86% of the tumors in this study.", "PMID": 432592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1173", "title": "[Modification of gastric emptying after a selective proximal vagotomy. Barium and isotope studies].", "content": "The study of gastric emptying by isotopic and barium feeding, in 43 patients, before and 6 months after highly selective vagotomy, showed no retention after this type of operation. Whereas during the first 45 minutes following ingestion of the test meal, there was no modification of emptying, a significant acceleration thereafter was demonstrated by both methods. The isotopic meal allows continuous study of gastric emptying which appears to be more regular after the operation. There was no difference in gastric emptying between patients suffering from post-prandial gastric fullness, mild diarrhea or dumping syndrome.", "contents": "[Modification of gastric emptying after a selective proximal vagotomy. Barium and isotope studies]. The study of gastric emptying by isotopic and barium feeding, in 43 patients, before and 6 months after highly selective vagotomy, showed no retention after this type of operation. Whereas during the first 45 minutes following ingestion of the test meal, there was no modification of emptying, a significant acceleration thereafter was demonstrated by both methods. The isotopic meal allows continuous study of gastric emptying which appears to be more regular after the operation. There was no difference in gastric emptying between patients suffering from post-prandial gastric fullness, mild diarrhea or dumping syndrome.", "PMID": 432593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1174", "title": "[Echographic diagnosis of cholelithiasis].", "content": "Ultrasonography of the gallbladder is a simple diagnostic tool in a clinical situation suggesting the presence of gallstones. The radiologic-surgical survey of our one hundred most recent cases reveals no false-positives and only very few false-negatives. These results are discussed.", "contents": "[Echographic diagnosis of cholelithiasis]. Ultrasonography of the gallbladder is a simple diagnostic tool in a clinical situation suggesting the presence of gallstones. The radiologic-surgical survey of our one hundred most recent cases reveals no false-positives and only very few false-negatives. These results are discussed.", "PMID": 432594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1175", "title": "[Sonography and retrograde endoscopic cholangiopancreatography in unclear upper abdominal complaints].", "content": "Real-time scanning is of great importance as a screening method for the examination of parenchymal organs in the pigastrium and allows rapid evaluation and exact diagnosis of lesions in the biliary duct system and the pancreas. Sonographic findings are expanded by endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The two methods are complementary tools.", "contents": "[Sonography and retrograde endoscopic cholangiopancreatography in unclear upper abdominal complaints]. Real-time scanning is of great importance as a screening method for the examination of parenchymal organs in the pigastrium and allows rapid evaluation and exact diagnosis of lesions in the biliary duct system and the pancreas. Sonographic findings are expanded by endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The two methods are complementary tools.", "PMID": 432595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1176", "title": "[Primary malignant lymphoma of the stomach. Analysis of 38 cases].", "content": "A retrospective analysis is presented of 38 cases of malignant lymphomas of the stomach, 20 of the reticulum cell type, 6 lymphoblastic, 6 lymphocytic and 4 mixed forms. Two patients had a primary Hodgkin's malignant lymphogranuloma. A follow-up was obtained for 35 patients. There proved to be no significant difference between the symptomatology of carcinoma and lymphoma of the stomach. In patients with lymphomas only signs of stenosis were missing, although the majority of the tumors were located in the antrum. As a consequence of the extreme tendency of the lymphomas to exulcerate (89%), the mean duration of symptoms of 21/2 months (patient's delay) is shorter than that for carcinomas. Malignant lymphomas of the stomach are very difficult to identify as such by radiology and endoscopy, because of their uncharacteristic macroscopic appearance. The best diagnostic method has proved to be endoscopic wire-loop biopsy, which serves to obtain adequate material for histology. An unexpected finding was that at the time of operation half of the patients had clinical stage I E. This indicates that lymphomas remain limited to the stomach longer than carcinomas do. The prognosis depends on both histological type and clinical stage. It is somewhat better than that of nodal malignant lymphomas. The 5-year survival rate of all cases with malignant lymphoma of the stomach is 31%.", "contents": "[Primary malignant lymphoma of the stomach. Analysis of 38 cases]. A retrospective analysis is presented of 38 cases of malignant lymphomas of the stomach, 20 of the reticulum cell type, 6 lymphoblastic, 6 lymphocytic and 4 mixed forms. Two patients had a primary Hodgkin's malignant lymphogranuloma. A follow-up was obtained for 35 patients. There proved to be no significant difference between the symptomatology of carcinoma and lymphoma of the stomach. In patients with lymphomas only signs of stenosis were missing, although the majority of the tumors were located in the antrum. As a consequence of the extreme tendency of the lymphomas to exulcerate (89%), the mean duration of symptoms of 21/2 months (patient's delay) is shorter than that for carcinomas. Malignant lymphomas of the stomach are very difficult to identify as such by radiology and endoscopy, because of their uncharacteristic macroscopic appearance. The best diagnostic method has proved to be endoscopic wire-loop biopsy, which serves to obtain adequate material for histology. An unexpected finding was that at the time of operation half of the patients had clinical stage I E. This indicates that lymphomas remain limited to the stomach longer than carcinomas do. The prognosis depends on both histological type and clinical stage. It is somewhat better than that of nodal malignant lymphomas. The 5-year survival rate of all cases with malignant lymphoma of the stomach is 31%.", "PMID": 432596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1177", "title": "[Effect of the sun on circulating 25-hydroxycalciferol levels in normal subjects in Switzerland].", "content": "The principal source of human natural vitamin D is cholecalciferol produced in skin by the action of ultraviolet light. Plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D), the hepatic metabolite of cholecalciferol, increased by 39.3% in 20 healthy young Swiss subjects after a 3-week holiday in the sun. Significant increases of circulating 25-OH-D (p smaller than 0.001) were found as much as 2 months later when compared with a group not deliberately exposed to sunshine. A short vacation in the sun therefore appears to be beneficial in replenishing vitamin D body stores.", "contents": "[Effect of the sun on circulating 25-hydroxycalciferol levels in normal subjects in Switzerland]. The principal source of human natural vitamin D is cholecalciferol produced in skin by the action of ultraviolet light. Plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D), the hepatic metabolite of cholecalciferol, increased by 39.3% in 20 healthy young Swiss subjects after a 3-week holiday in the sun. Significant increases of circulating 25-OH-D (p smaller than 0.001) were found as much as 2 months later when compared with a group not deliberately exposed to sunshine. A short vacation in the sun therefore appears to be beneficial in replenishing vitamin D body stores.", "PMID": 432597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1178", "title": "[Normal values for vital capacity and forced expiratory capacity of the lungs in old age].", "content": "In 545 healthy men aged 71-90 years and 160 women aged 71-85 years, vital capacity and FEV1.0 in the standing position were measured using a closed spirometer system. Analysis of the results from different groups based on age and body size makes it possible to extend an already existing nomogram for prediction of normal values for vital capacity up to 90 years in men and up to 80 years in women. There is no linear relationship between age and vital capacity in men and women aged 20-90 years. The average FEV1.0 is more than 70% of the effective vital capacity in men and women aged 71-90 and 71-85 years respectively. A reduction of more than 20% in vital capacity, and a FEV1.0 below 65% of the actual vital capacity, is to be considered pathological in men and women of any age.", "contents": "[Normal values for vital capacity and forced expiratory capacity of the lungs in old age]. In 545 healthy men aged 71-90 years and 160 women aged 71-85 years, vital capacity and FEV1.0 in the standing position were measured using a closed spirometer system. Analysis of the results from different groups based on age and body size makes it possible to extend an already existing nomogram for prediction of normal values for vital capacity up to 90 years in men and up to 80 years in women. There is no linear relationship between age and vital capacity in men and women aged 20-90 years. The average FEV1.0 is more than 70% of the effective vital capacity in men and women aged 71-90 and 71-85 years respectively. A reduction of more than 20% in vital capacity, and a FEV1.0 below 65% of the actual vital capacity, is to be considered pathological in men and women of any age.", "PMID": 432598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1179", "title": "[Prognostic factors of survival and tumor recurrence following surgery and radiotherapy for breast cancer with positive axillary nodes. La Chaux-de-Fonds, 1968-1975].", "content": "Survival and treatment failure are analyzed in a homogeneous group of 70 pre- or post-menopausal patients with operable breast cancer and histologically involved axillary nodes. From March 1968 to December 1975, all patients underwent simple or radical mastectomy, followed by radiotherapy in 67. The period of observation varied from 11 months to 10 years. Treatment failures were observed on 34 patients: 10 loco-regional relapses, 21 distant metastatizations, and 3 tumors in the other breast. Analysis of actuarial survival curves shows a statistically significant difference between patients with 1 to 3 positive axillary nodes and patients with 4 or more, but no difference with regard to the volume of the tumor and the patient's age. Comparison of disease-free period curves shows statistically significant differences between patients aged below and over 55 years, tumor of less or more than 2 cm, and 4 or fewer axillary nodes. These results are comparable to those in the literature and form a contribution to a Swiss study of post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer with positive axillary nodes.", "contents": "[Prognostic factors of survival and tumor recurrence following surgery and radiotherapy for breast cancer with positive axillary nodes. La Chaux-de-Fonds, 1968-1975]. Survival and treatment failure are analyzed in a homogeneous group of 70 pre- or post-menopausal patients with operable breast cancer and histologically involved axillary nodes. From March 1968 to December 1975, all patients underwent simple or radical mastectomy, followed by radiotherapy in 67. The period of observation varied from 11 months to 10 years. Treatment failures were observed on 34 patients: 10 loco-regional relapses, 21 distant metastatizations, and 3 tumors in the other breast. Analysis of actuarial survival curves shows a statistically significant difference between patients with 1 to 3 positive axillary nodes and patients with 4 or more, but no difference with regard to the volume of the tumor and the patient's age. Comparison of disease-free period curves shows statistically significant differences between patients aged below and over 55 years, tumor of less or more than 2 cm, and 4 or fewer axillary nodes. These results are comparable to those in the literature and form a contribution to a Swiss study of post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer with positive axillary nodes.", "PMID": 432599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1180", "title": "[South American blastomycosis (paracoccidioidomycosis) in Switzerland. Clinical course and morphological findings in a case following long-term therapy].", "content": "The clinical course and morphological findings are reported of visceral paracoccidioidomycosis or South American blastomycosis with lung involvement in a 47-year-old male after specific antimycotic treatment for 11 years. The patient had been infected during a stay in S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil, from 1950 to 1954. The diagnosis was established in 1959 after his return to St. Gall, Switzerland, in tissue from buccal mucosa and cervical lymph node biopsy and in fungus cultures. The patient was treated with Fungizone (amphotericin B) and with the sulfonamide Fanasil. He died in 1970 from acute right heart failure. Autopsy revealed multiple encapsulated mycotic foci in both lungs, together with healed foci and pulmonary fibrosis. Histological examination showed a large amount of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in the mycotic foci, but cultural proof was no longer possible. In the buccal mucosa and lymph nodes, only fungus-free scars were observed. There are only a few effective antimycotic agents. With a thorough knowledge of their side effects and dosage modalities, it is possible to achieve highly satisfactory results.", "contents": "[South American blastomycosis (paracoccidioidomycosis) in Switzerland. Clinical course and morphological findings in a case following long-term therapy]. The clinical course and morphological findings are reported of visceral paracoccidioidomycosis or South American blastomycosis with lung involvement in a 47-year-old male after specific antimycotic treatment for 11 years. The patient had been infected during a stay in S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil, from 1950 to 1954. The diagnosis was established in 1959 after his return to St. Gall, Switzerland, in tissue from buccal mucosa and cervical lymph node biopsy and in fungus cultures. The patient was treated with Fungizone (amphotericin B) and with the sulfonamide Fanasil. He died in 1970 from acute right heart failure. Autopsy revealed multiple encapsulated mycotic foci in both lungs, together with healed foci and pulmonary fibrosis. Histological examination showed a large amount of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in the mycotic foci, but cultural proof was no longer possible. In the buccal mucosa and lymph nodes, only fungus-free scars were observed. There are only a few effective antimycotic agents. With a thorough knowledge of their side effects and dosage modalities, it is possible to achieve highly satisfactory results.", "PMID": 432600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1181", "title": "[Essential bone cyst and its therapy].", "content": "Twenty-nine cases of unicameral bone cyst treated surgically are reported. The literature is reviewed and different methods of treatment are discussed. Important factors contributory to the risk of recurrence are identified and stressed.", "contents": "[Essential bone cyst and its therapy]. Twenty-nine cases of unicameral bone cyst treated surgically are reported. The literature is reviewed and different methods of treatment are discussed. Important factors contributory to the risk of recurrence are identified and stressed.", "PMID": 432602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1182", "title": "[Pulmonary Actinomyces-viscosus infection].", "content": "The isolation of Actinomyces viscosus from the pleural fluid of a patient with pleuro-pneumonia and empyema is described. This is believed to be the first human Actinomyces viscosus infection in Switzerland.", "contents": "[Pulmonary Actinomyces-viscosus infection]. The isolation of Actinomyces viscosus from the pleural fluid of a patient with pleuro-pneumonia and empyema is described. This is believed to be the first human Actinomyces viscosus infection in Switzerland.", "PMID": 432603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1183", "title": "[The primary ovarian carcinoid. Case report].", "content": "A rare primary carcinoid tumor of the ovary, found incidentally in a 68-year-old woman, is reported. There had been no symptoms of carcinoid syndrome. Grossly, the unilateral tumor was cystic, measuring 13 cm in greatest diameter. Microscopically it consisted mainly of solid epithelial cords. The demonstration of argentaffin cells and the absence of a concomitant teratoma, dermoid or pseudomucinous cyst led to the diagnosis of a pure primary ovarian carcinoid tumor. On average the prognosis of such lesions is good and recurrence or fatal metastases are rare. Treatment consists of salpingo-oophorectomy. To rule out a metastasizing carcinoid with similar histologic features, the contralateral ovary should be biopsied since metastases almost invariably occur bilaterally.", "contents": "[The primary ovarian carcinoid. Case report]. A rare primary carcinoid tumor of the ovary, found incidentally in a 68-year-old woman, is reported. There had been no symptoms of carcinoid syndrome. Grossly, the unilateral tumor was cystic, measuring 13 cm in greatest diameter. Microscopically it consisted mainly of solid epithelial cords. The demonstration of argentaffin cells and the absence of a concomitant teratoma, dermoid or pseudomucinous cyst led to the diagnosis of a pure primary ovarian carcinoid tumor. On average the prognosis of such lesions is good and recurrence or fatal metastases are rare. Treatment consists of salpingo-oophorectomy. To rule out a metastasizing carcinoid with similar histologic features, the contralateral ovary should be biopsied since metastases almost invariably occur bilaterally.", "PMID": 432604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1184", "title": "[The hand in diabetes. Study of 97 diabetics compared to a control group].", "content": "To determine whether there is hand involvement specific to diabetes, 97 diabetics were compared with the same number of matched controls. Hands were examined with particular emphasis on skin, intrinsic muscles, articular mobility, sense of touch and vibration, digital systolic pressure, and radiological analysis of bones and joints. The most significant involvement, clearly present in 7 cases and less specifically in 12 other diabetics, included all of the following: atrophy and weakness of intrinsic muscles, painful interphalangeal rigidity limiting extension or flexion of the fingers, periarticular swelling of the phalanges, and trophic changes of the skin. Separately, these changes are not specific to diabetes: in the control group, although less frequent, they were found in patients aged 60 and over and are considered to be signs of senescence. Diabetes apparently accelerates the process of aging. Diabetic changes in the hand appear to be facilitated by neuropathy but not by arterial involvement. X-ray revealed a higher incidence of osteopenia and above all of vascular calcifications in the diabetic.", "contents": "[The hand in diabetes. Study of 97 diabetics compared to a control group]. To determine whether there is hand involvement specific to diabetes, 97 diabetics were compared with the same number of matched controls. Hands were examined with particular emphasis on skin, intrinsic muscles, articular mobility, sense of touch and vibration, digital systolic pressure, and radiological analysis of bones and joints. The most significant involvement, clearly present in 7 cases and less specifically in 12 other diabetics, included all of the following: atrophy and weakness of intrinsic muscles, painful interphalangeal rigidity limiting extension or flexion of the fingers, periarticular swelling of the phalanges, and trophic changes of the skin. Separately, these changes are not specific to diabetes: in the control group, although less frequent, they were found in patients aged 60 and over and are considered to be signs of senescence. Diabetes apparently accelerates the process of aging. Diabetic changes in the hand appear to be facilitated by neuropathy but not by arterial involvement. X-ray revealed a higher incidence of osteopenia and above all of vascular calcifications in the diabetic.", "PMID": 432605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1185", "title": "[Risk factors for heavy cigarette smoking in young men: a longitudinal study].", "content": "In a three-year follow-up on 841 males questioned at the age of 19 and 22 years, an attempt has been made to determine the characteristics of social situation and personality which are correlated with constant heavy cigarette consumption, and what other risk factors are also involved. Bivariate analyses, multiple regression, and path analysis revealed the following influencing factors: personality traits such as nervousness and extraversion, low social integration, low assessment of the subject's own health situation, loose ties with parents, lower school level, increased alcohol and cannabis consumption. No correlation was found with religion, social status of parents, masculinity, blood group or rhesus factor.", "contents": "[Risk factors for heavy cigarette smoking in young men: a longitudinal study]. In a three-year follow-up on 841 males questioned at the age of 19 and 22 years, an attempt has been made to determine the characteristics of social situation and personality which are correlated with constant heavy cigarette consumption, and what other risk factors are also involved. Bivariate analyses, multiple regression, and path analysis revealed the following influencing factors: personality traits such as nervousness and extraversion, low social integration, low assessment of the subject's own health situation, loose ties with parents, lower school level, increased alcohol and cannabis consumption. No correlation was found with religion, social status of parents, masculinity, blood group or rhesus factor.", "PMID": 432606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1186", "title": "[The physiology of sleep and the physiopathology of insomnia].", "content": "After a review of the semiology and organization of normal sleep, the neuronal structures presently accepted as participating in sleep mechanisms are discussed. During a series of experiments designed to define the physiopathological role of slow wave sleep in chronic insomnia, we recorded in our laboratory normal subjects of both sexes and insomniacs whose predominant disorders was sleep maintenance. Sleep modifications as a function of aging chiefly involve stage 4, which is reduced by about one half between the ages of 19 and 30. Analyzing a large group of normal and insomniac subjects, it is possible to show a statistical association between very low values of slow wave sleep and short and fragile total sleep. This association cannot be explained simply by an increase in waking pressure. Comparison of a group of 16 insomniacs with 16 age and sex matched normal subjects shows in the insominacs a deficiency of production of slow wave sleep (stages 3 and 4), most probably linked to a disturbed waking/sleep balance, whereas the other parameters of sleep, especially paradoxical stage, remain unmodified. These results are consistent with the hypothesis of a physiopathological role of slow wave sleep deficiency in chronic primary insomnia; on the other hand, slow wave sleep may possibly be responsible for sleep induction and maintenance, playing the role of a physiological hypnogenic mechanism.", "contents": "[The physiology of sleep and the physiopathology of insomnia]. After a review of the semiology and organization of normal sleep, the neuronal structures presently accepted as participating in sleep mechanisms are discussed. During a series of experiments designed to define the physiopathological role of slow wave sleep in chronic insomnia, we recorded in our laboratory normal subjects of both sexes and insomniacs whose predominant disorders was sleep maintenance. Sleep modifications as a function of aging chiefly involve stage 4, which is reduced by about one half between the ages of 19 and 30. Analyzing a large group of normal and insomniac subjects, it is possible to show a statistical association between very low values of slow wave sleep and short and fragile total sleep. This association cannot be explained simply by an increase in waking pressure. Comparison of a group of 16 insomniacs with 16 age and sex matched normal subjects shows in the insominacs a deficiency of production of slow wave sleep (stages 3 and 4), most probably linked to a disturbed waking/sleep balance, whereas the other parameters of sleep, especially paradoxical stage, remain unmodified. These results are consistent with the hypothesis of a physiopathological role of slow wave sleep deficiency in chronic primary insomnia; on the other hand, slow wave sleep may possibly be responsible for sleep induction and maintenance, playing the role of a physiological hypnogenic mechanism.", "PMID": 432607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1187", "title": "[Prognosis of intensively treated newborns: psychomotor development during the first years of life].", "content": "330 out of 616 surviving newborns treated in the neonatal ICU of Berne University Children's Hospital from 1.1 1974 to 31.12. 1976 were considered, on the basis of strict criteria, to be especially at risk for the development of abnormal cerebromotor symptoms, 287 were followed up. At age 3--42 (mean 15) months, 10% of these especially endangered children showed clear-cut, and 24% slightly abnormal, symptoms. If related to the total number of surviving patients, all of whom were either ill or at risk for disturbed neonatal adaptation, this corresponds to 5 and 11% respectively. Based on this population, an approximate incidence of cerebral palsy of 5% at age 15 months can be calculated for the whole pediatric population. This value is comparable to the 2% actually found in the total pediatric population. Furthermore, a statistically significant decrease in abnormal symptoms with increasing postnatal age was found. Newborns with convulsions, however, do not have this favourable prognosis.", "contents": "[Prognosis of intensively treated newborns: psychomotor development during the first years of life]. 330 out of 616 surviving newborns treated in the neonatal ICU of Berne University Children's Hospital from 1.1 1974 to 31.12. 1976 were considered, on the basis of strict criteria, to be especially at risk for the development of abnormal cerebromotor symptoms, 287 were followed up. At age 3--42 (mean 15) months, 10% of these especially endangered children showed clear-cut, and 24% slightly abnormal, symptoms. If related to the total number of surviving patients, all of whom were either ill or at risk for disturbed neonatal adaptation, this corresponds to 5 and 11% respectively. Based on this population, an approximate incidence of cerebral palsy of 5% at age 15 months can be calculated for the whole pediatric population. This value is comparable to the 2% actually found in the total pediatric population. Furthermore, a statistically significant decrease in abnormal symptoms with increasing postnatal age was found. Newborns with convulsions, however, do not have this favourable prognosis.", "PMID": 432608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1188", "title": "[Evaluation of a new commercial latex test for the study of rheumatoid factors].", "content": "A new commercial test of IgG-sensitized latex particle agglutination is compared with a long-established latex test for detection and titration of rheumatoid factors. The comparison was conducted on samples from three groups of patients: 125 with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 115 seropositive samples from patients with various diseases except RA, and 100 seronegative samples with varying diagnosis including RA. The new test is very simple to perform. Its sensitivity, however, was lower than that of the Rheins test by about 2.5 dilutions. Its specificity as to the diagnosis of RA was significantly better than that of the Rheins test.", "contents": "[Evaluation of a new commercial latex test for the study of rheumatoid factors]. A new commercial test of IgG-sensitized latex particle agglutination is compared with a long-established latex test for detection and titration of rheumatoid factors. The comparison was conducted on samples from three groups of patients: 125 with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 115 seropositive samples from patients with various diseases except RA, and 100 seronegative samples with varying diagnosis including RA. The new test is very simple to perform. Its sensitivity, however, was lower than that of the Rheins test by about 2.5 dilutions. Its specificity as to the diagnosis of RA was significantly better than that of the Rheins test.", "PMID": 432609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1189", "title": "[Inquiry of the Swiss Cardiology Society on long-term pacemakers in Switzerland in 1976 and 1977].", "content": "The Swiss Society of Cardiology has conducted a national inquiry into the state of pacing in Switzerland for the years 1976 and 1977. With a total of 1250 pacemakers implanted each year and a rate of first implantation of 146 per year and per million inhabitants, this study illustrates the methods of Swiss cardiologists and the problems which they meet in the field. It is generally agreed, as in other countries, that stimulation of the right ventricle by endocavitary approach with demand pacemakers generated by lithium batteries appears to be excellent for the moment. Pacemakers which can be programmed were not in widespread use during the period of this study. The incidence of various complications is considered.", "contents": "[Inquiry of the Swiss Cardiology Society on long-term pacemakers in Switzerland in 1976 and 1977]. The Swiss Society of Cardiology has conducted a national inquiry into the state of pacing in Switzerland for the years 1976 and 1977. With a total of 1250 pacemakers implanted each year and a rate of first implantation of 146 per year and per million inhabitants, this study illustrates the methods of Swiss cardiologists and the problems which they meet in the field. It is generally agreed, as in other countries, that stimulation of the right ventricle by endocavitary approach with demand pacemakers generated by lithium batteries appears to be excellent for the moment. Pacemakers which can be programmed were not in widespread use during the period of this study. The incidence of various complications is considered.", "PMID": 432610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1190", "title": "[Correlations between hemodynamic measures and respiratory functions in patients with chronic obstructive lung syndromes].", "content": "Fourteen patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease underwent right catheterization with a Swan-Ganz catheter to correlate lung function with hemodynamic features at rest and on exercise. There appears to be a good correlation between some pulmonary function tests (FEV1, RV/TLC, PaO2 at rest and on exercise) and mean pulmonary artery pressure at rest and on exercise in these patients.", "contents": "[Correlations between hemodynamic measures and respiratory functions in patients with chronic obstructive lung syndromes]. Fourteen patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease underwent right catheterization with a Swan-Ganz catheter to correlate lung function with hemodynamic features at rest and on exercise. There appears to be a good correlation between some pulmonary function tests (FEV1, RV/TLC, PaO2 at rest and on exercise) and mean pulmonary artery pressure at rest and on exercise in these patients.", "PMID": 432611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1191", "title": "[The combination mass radiography--blood pressure measurement. Experiences and results in the Canton Bern].", "content": "The combination of mass radiophotography and blood pressure measurement was started in the Canton Berne (population approx. 1 million) in 1974. Experience with this method has been highly satisfactory: An average of 80% of personnel attented mass radiophotography on a voluntary basis and 97--i00% participated in the blood pressure measurement. The costs were low because a well-established service could be utilized. In this way, it has been possible to examine 90,000 persons within three years, or 45% of the population (age 30 to 65 years). The results for 1977 were analyzed using a general computer program. A total of 17,112 persons aged 30 years and more and belonging to the working population were examined: 14.6% of the screened population had hypertension of greater than or equal to 160 and/or greater than or equal to 95 mm Hg. Diastolic pressure was found to be greater than or equal to 100 mm Hg in 5.9% and greater than or equal to 110 mm Hg in 1.8%. 54.8% of the detected hypertensions were unknown to the examined persons and 17.8% were under treatment. Correlations with other findings, such as pathologic images of the heart in the X-ray and smoking, have been investigated. An interesting fact was the remarkable difference in the percentage of hypertension between population groups (10.7--20.7%) and occupations such as industry, trades and public utilities (3.0--29.8%). It has been shown that screening for hypertension is not only a propaganda move. A large number of undetected hypertensive subjects can be passed on for treatment.", "contents": "[The combination mass radiography--blood pressure measurement. Experiences and results in the Canton Bern]. The combination of mass radiophotography and blood pressure measurement was started in the Canton Berne (population approx. 1 million) in 1974. Experience with this method has been highly satisfactory: An average of 80% of personnel attented mass radiophotography on a voluntary basis and 97--i00% participated in the blood pressure measurement. The costs were low because a well-established service could be utilized. In this way, it has been possible to examine 90,000 persons within three years, or 45% of the population (age 30 to 65 years). The results for 1977 were analyzed using a general computer program. A total of 17,112 persons aged 30 years and more and belonging to the working population were examined: 14.6% of the screened population had hypertension of greater than or equal to 160 and/or greater than or equal to 95 mm Hg. Diastolic pressure was found to be greater than or equal to 100 mm Hg in 5.9% and greater than or equal to 110 mm Hg in 1.8%. 54.8% of the detected hypertensions were unknown to the examined persons and 17.8% were under treatment. Correlations with other findings, such as pathologic images of the heart in the X-ray and smoking, have been investigated. An interesting fact was the remarkable difference in the percentage of hypertension between population groups (10.7--20.7%) and occupations such as industry, trades and public utilities (3.0--29.8%). It has been shown that screening for hypertension is not only a propaganda move. A large number of undetected hypertensive subjects can be passed on for treatment.", "PMID": 432612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1192", "title": "[Hormone-producing thyroid carcinoma with hyperthyroidism. Analysis of 6 cases and review of the literature].", "content": "Report on 6 female patients with follicular thyroid carcinoma producing hyperthyroidism. Two of them had large metastases with hormone production, while 4 mimicked an autonomously functioning thyroid adenoma. Hormone synthesis was investigated in the tumor tissue of one patient and was found to be similar to that of normal thyroid tissue.", "contents": "[Hormone-producing thyroid carcinoma with hyperthyroidism. Analysis of 6 cases and review of the literature]. Report on 6 female patients with follicular thyroid carcinoma producing hyperthyroidism. Two of them had large metastases with hormone production, while 4 mimicked an autonomously functioning thyroid adenoma. Hormone synthesis was investigated in the tumor tissue of one patient and was found to be similar to that of normal thyroid tissue.", "PMID": 432614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1193", "title": "[Determination of the IgE serum level: RIST or PRIST? Results of a ring test in Switzerland].", "content": "Serum IgE concentrations, determined by two commercial kits (Phadebas RIST and PRIST) in 93 adult controls resulted in a geometrical mean value of 47 (RIST) and 35 U/ml (PRIST) respectively within a + 2 SD value of 195 and 331 U/ml respectively. The difference between the separated random samples is statistically significant (t = 3.79; p less than 1%), but the correlation is still fairly satisfactory (r = 0.79). In the lower regions the IgE values with RIST are as a rule a little higher than with the PRIST method. Surprisingly, one patient showed an extremely low IgE value (7 U/ml) with PRIST, but a considerably higher one (530 U/ml) with RIST. Such marked differences are found occasionally in the literature: heterophile antibodies against bovine gammaglobulin are regarded as responsible for the interference in the Sephadex system of RIST. As the reproducibility of the IgE determinations with the PRIST method is excellent (the correlation coefficient for two PRIST determinations was r = 0.93), and as PRIST allows much lower IgE estimates, this procedure should be given preference, particularly in pediatric patients. On the other hand, RIST must be used for the determination of extremely high values, as for instance in patients with severe atopic dermatitis or with parasitic infestations. In fact they can no longer be exactly evaluated by PRIST. Quality control of IgE serum determinations among twelve randomly chosen laboratories in Switzerland in 5 patients was satisfactory, with one exception. In the case of extremely high values, however, only a few laboratories try to determine the exact value. Indications of more than 500 U/ml were considered sufficient, with actual values amounting to 12,500 U/ml. It is also advisable to standardize the serum dilutions, the use of reference serum and the price. Finally, the indications for IgE determination are discussed. It is considered to have an important bearing on the differential diagnosis and prognosis of atopic diseases in infants and children.", "contents": "[Determination of the IgE serum level: RIST or PRIST? Results of a ring test in Switzerland]. Serum IgE concentrations, determined by two commercial kits (Phadebas RIST and PRIST) in 93 adult controls resulted in a geometrical mean value of 47 (RIST) and 35 U/ml (PRIST) respectively within a + 2 SD value of 195 and 331 U/ml respectively. The difference between the separated random samples is statistically significant (t = 3.79; p less than 1%), but the correlation is still fairly satisfactory (r = 0.79). In the lower regions the IgE values with RIST are as a rule a little higher than with the PRIST method. Surprisingly, one patient showed an extremely low IgE value (7 U/ml) with PRIST, but a considerably higher one (530 U/ml) with RIST. Such marked differences are found occasionally in the literature: heterophile antibodies against bovine gammaglobulin are regarded as responsible for the interference in the Sephadex system of RIST. As the reproducibility of the IgE determinations with the PRIST method is excellent (the correlation coefficient for two PRIST determinations was r = 0.93), and as PRIST allows much lower IgE estimates, this procedure should be given preference, particularly in pediatric patients. On the other hand, RIST must be used for the determination of extremely high values, as for instance in patients with severe atopic dermatitis or with parasitic infestations. In fact they can no longer be exactly evaluated by PRIST. Quality control of IgE serum determinations among twelve randomly chosen laboratories in Switzerland in 5 patients was satisfactory, with one exception. In the case of extremely high values, however, only a few laboratories try to determine the exact value. Indications of more than 500 U/ml were considered sufficient, with actual values amounting to 12,500 U/ml. It is also advisable to standardize the serum dilutions, the use of reference serum and the price. Finally, the indications for IgE determination are discussed. It is considered to have an important bearing on the differential diagnosis and prognosis of atopic diseases in infants and children.", "PMID": 432615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1194", "title": "Studies on purification of oestrogen-induced protein from rat uterus and its physiological role in cultured cells.", "content": "This paper presents evidence to show the presence of an oestrogen-induced protein (IP) from rat uterus which is able to stimulate the incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA of 3T6 fibroblasts in vitro. The purified uterine protein fraction has been shown th contain less than 10 detectable proteins. The molecular weight of IP band is about 50,000 Daltons with an iso-electric point of 4.5. Comparison of oestrogen-treated and -untreated uterine cytosols on SDS-acrylamide gel electrophoresis indicates that the IP band is also present in the untreated controls. It is therefore suggested that the oestrogen-induced protein may be analogous or identical to the growth-promoting protein synthesized by LX cells.", "contents": "Studies on purification of oestrogen-induced protein from rat uterus and its physiological role in cultured cells. This paper presents evidence to show the presence of an oestrogen-induced protein (IP) from rat uterus which is able to stimulate the incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA of 3T6 fibroblasts in vitro. The purified uterine protein fraction has been shown th contain less than 10 detectable proteins. The molecular weight of IP band is about 50,000 Daltons with an iso-electric point of 4.5. Comparison of oestrogen-treated and -untreated uterine cytosols on SDS-acrylamide gel electrophoresis indicates that the IP band is also present in the untreated controls. It is therefore suggested that the oestrogen-induced protein may be analogous or identical to the growth-promoting protein synthesized by LX cells.", "PMID": 432624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1195", "title": "Chemical evidence for production of hydroxyl radicals during microsomal electron transfer.", "content": "Rat liver microsomes generate methane from dimethyl sulfoxide and ethylene from either methional or 2-keto-4-thiomethylbutyric acid during electron transfer initiated by reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). Hydrocarbon gas production is suppressed by hydroxyl radical scavenging agents. Azide, an inhibitor of catalase, augments the production of hydrocarbon gases. These observations constitute chemical evidence for the generation of hydroxyl radicals by microsomes.", "contents": "Chemical evidence for production of hydroxyl radicals during microsomal electron transfer. Rat liver microsomes generate methane from dimethyl sulfoxide and ethylene from either methional or 2-keto-4-thiomethylbutyric acid during electron transfer initiated by reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). Hydrocarbon gas production is suppressed by hydroxyl radical scavenging agents. Azide, an inhibitor of catalase, augments the production of hydrocarbon gases. These observations constitute chemical evidence for the generation of hydroxyl radicals by microsomes.", "PMID": 432627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1196", "title": "Vitamin D deficiency and reproduction in rats.", "content": "Female weanling rats from a colony maintained on a diet low in vitamin D were raised on a diet that was deficient in vitamin D but was otherwise adequate. Vitamin D deficiency was confirmed in the rats by hypocalcemia and the absence of vitamin D metabolites in blood. These females gave birth to litters that were slightly smaller than control litters from females maintained on a vitamin D-containing diet. The pups from the vitamin D-deficient mothers appeared normal throughout lactation, and at weaning had normal concentrations of calcium and phosphate in the plasma. These results indicate that vitamin D and its metabolites are not necessary for reproduction and fetal development in the rat.", "contents": "Vitamin D deficiency and reproduction in rats. Female weanling rats from a colony maintained on a diet low in vitamin D were raised on a diet that was deficient in vitamin D but was otherwise adequate. Vitamin D deficiency was confirmed in the rats by hypocalcemia and the absence of vitamin D metabolites in blood. These females gave birth to litters that were slightly smaller than control litters from females maintained on a vitamin D-containing diet. The pups from the vitamin D-deficient mothers appeared normal throughout lactation, and at weaning had normal concentrations of calcium and phosphate in the plasma. These results indicate that vitamin D and its metabolites are not necessary for reproduction and fetal development in the rat.", "PMID": 432628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1197", "title": "Discrimination learning without short-term memory: dissociation of memory processes in pigeons.", "content": "Pigeons were trained to perform delayed matching to samples of food and no food when each sample concurrently served as the outcome of a discrimination learning trial which immediately preceded each matching trial. Ambient light presented during the delays after the samples of food or no food severely disrupted matching but had no effect on the rate of discrimination learning.", "contents": "Discrimination learning without short-term memory: dissociation of memory processes in pigeons. Pigeons were trained to perform delayed matching to samples of food and no food when each sample concurrently served as the outcome of a discrimination learning trial which immediately preceded each matching trial. Ambient light presented during the delays after the samples of food or no food severely disrupted matching but had no effect on the rate of discrimination learning.", "PMID": 432629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1198", "title": "The psychophysical function: harmonizing Fechner and Stevens.", "content": "The methods of Fechner and Stevens for assessing sensation quantity usually yield different psychophysical functions even when all other factors are controlled. In this experiment, corresponding differences occurred when different features of the same sensory receptor signals were analyzed. In the visual system, the receptor potential saturated if the peak but not the area was measured; these results match visual psychophysical functions obtained with the methods of Fechner and Stevens, respectively. This result suggests that both methods are equally valid but that each method yields the particular psychophysical function appropriate for a particular kind of information processing. A novel factor in determining sensation quantity, namely the time used by the observer to make a judgment, is implicated by the data.", "contents": "The psychophysical function: harmonizing Fechner and Stevens. The methods of Fechner and Stevens for assessing sensation quantity usually yield different psychophysical functions even when all other factors are controlled. In this experiment, corresponding differences occurred when different features of the same sensory receptor signals were analyzed. In the visual system, the receptor potential saturated if the peak but not the area was measured; these results match visual psychophysical functions obtained with the methods of Fechner and Stevens, respectively. This result suggests that both methods are equally valid but that each method yields the particular psychophysical function appropriate for a particular kind of information processing. A novel factor in determining sensation quantity, namely the time used by the observer to make a judgment, is implicated by the data.", "PMID": 432630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1199", "title": "Tight junctions in a fluid-transporting epithelium of an insect.", "content": "Occluding junctions have been found between the lateral cell borders at the base of the rectum of Periplaneta americana. They appear as punctate membrane appositions in thin sections, and after incubation in physiological solutions containing lanthanum before fixation the inward penetration of tracer is impeded in this same basal area. Moreover, freeze-fracture studies of this region reveal simple linear ridges on fracture face P and grooves on fracture face E, which are similar to the less complex vertebrate tight junctions. The luminal clefts, which permit free inward diffusion of tracers, present no tight junctions, but do have septate junctions. These results support the contention that, contrary to earlier speculation, arthropods do possess tight junctions; these, rather than septate junctions, appear to form the morphological basis of at least some of the permeability barriers observed in invertebrates.", "contents": "Tight junctions in a fluid-transporting epithelium of an insect. Occluding junctions have been found between the lateral cell borders at the base of the rectum of Periplaneta americana. They appear as punctate membrane appositions in thin sections, and after incubation in physiological solutions containing lanthanum before fixation the inward penetration of tracer is impeded in this same basal area. Moreover, freeze-fracture studies of this region reveal simple linear ridges on fracture face P and grooves on fracture face E, which are similar to the less complex vertebrate tight junctions. The luminal clefts, which permit free inward diffusion of tracers, present no tight junctions, but do have septate junctions. These results support the contention that, contrary to earlier speculation, arthropods do possess tight junctions; these, rather than septate junctions, appear to form the morphological basis of at least some of the permeability barriers observed in invertebrates.", "PMID": 432631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1200", "title": "Watching fat digestion.", "content": "During fat digestion a number of physicochemical events can be seen directly by light microscopy. Under simulated physiological conditions, hydrolysis of emulsified fat droplets by human pancreatic lipase in the presence of colipase and bile salt micelles proceeds with the sequential formation of two visible product phases. A lamellar liquid crystalline or crystalline phase containing calcium and ionized fatty acid forms first; this is followed by the production of a \"viscous isotropic\" phase composed predominantly of monoglycerides and protonated fatty acids.", "contents": "Watching fat digestion. During fat digestion a number of physicochemical events can be seen directly by light microscopy. Under simulated physiological conditions, hydrolysis of emulsified fat droplets by human pancreatic lipase in the presence of colipase and bile salt micelles proceeds with the sequential formation of two visible product phases. A lamellar liquid crystalline or crystalline phase containing calcium and ionized fatty acid forms first; this is followed by the production of a \"viscous isotropic\" phase composed predominantly of monoglycerides and protonated fatty acids.", "PMID": 432636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1201", "title": "Dexamethasone stimulation of metallothionein synthesis in HeLa cell cultures.", "content": "HeLa cells in culture synthesize metallothionein. To investigate the effects of glucocorticoids on metallothionein synthesis we adapted HeLa cells to growth in a defined medium lacking hydrocortisone. In this defined medium, containing 1.5 x 10(-6)M Zn2+, dexamethasone (10(-6)M) caused a five- to sixfold increase in the synthesis of metallothionein. Progesterone (10(-5)M), a known antagonist of glucocorticoids, inhibited this response by 50 percent.", "contents": "Dexamethasone stimulation of metallothionein synthesis in HeLa cell cultures. HeLa cells in culture synthesize metallothionein. To investigate the effects of glucocorticoids on metallothionein synthesis we adapted HeLa cells to growth in a defined medium lacking hydrocortisone. In this defined medium, containing 1.5 x 10(-6)M Zn2+, dexamethasone (10(-6)M) caused a five- to sixfold increase in the synthesis of metallothionein. Progesterone (10(-5)M), a known antagonist of glucocorticoids, inhibited this response by 50 percent.", "PMID": 432639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1202", "title": "Melatonin synthesis by the retina.", "content": "Melatonin fulfills many of the criteria for classification as a hormone. Until recently it was considered to be elaborated exclusively by pineal organs. Melatonin synthesis by other tissues has been indicated but not demonstrated unequivocally. Trout retinas in a whole-organ culture system in vitro synthesized tritiated melatonin from a substrate containing tritiated serotonin. This raises the possibility that the trout retina is an endocrine organ.", "contents": "Melatonin synthesis by the retina. Melatonin fulfills many of the criteria for classification as a hormone. Until recently it was considered to be elaborated exclusively by pineal organs. Melatonin synthesis by other tissues has been indicated but not demonstrated unequivocally. Trout retinas in a whole-organ culture system in vitro synthesized tritiated melatonin from a substrate containing tritiated serotonin. This raises the possibility that the trout retina is an endocrine organ.", "PMID": 432640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1203", "title": "Liposomes and local hyperthermia: selective delivery of methotrexate to heated tumors.", "content": "Liposomes with phase transitions a few degrees above physiological temperature delivered more than four times as much methotrexate to murine tumors heated to 42 degrees C as to unheated control tumors. Most of the accumulated drug appeared to be intracellular and bound to dihydrofolate reductase, the enzyme blocked by methotrexate in its role as an antineoplastic agent.", "contents": "Liposomes and local hyperthermia: selective delivery of methotrexate to heated tumors. Liposomes with phase transitions a few degrees above physiological temperature delivered more than four times as much methotrexate to murine tumors heated to 42 degrees C as to unheated control tumors. Most of the accumulated drug appeared to be intracellular and bound to dihydrofolate reductase, the enzyme blocked by methotrexate in its role as an antineoplastic agent.", "PMID": 432641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1204", "title": "Induction of copulatory behavior in sexually inactive rats by naloxine.", "content": "The intraventricular injection of D-alanine-methionine-enkephalinamide (D-Ala2-Met-enkephalinamide), a synthetic analog of Met-enkephalin that is resistant to enzymatic degradation, inhibits copulatory behavior in sexually vigorous male rats in doses which do not influence motor activity or feeding behavior. This effect is prevented by naloxone, a specific inhibitor of opioid receptors. In addition, injections of naloxone induce copulatory behavior in sexually inactive male rats. These results suggest that endorphins play an important role in the regulation of sexual behavior.", "contents": "Induction of copulatory behavior in sexually inactive rats by naloxine. The intraventricular injection of D-alanine-methionine-enkephalinamide (D-Ala2-Met-enkephalinamide), a synthetic analog of Met-enkephalin that is resistant to enzymatic degradation, inhibits copulatory behavior in sexually vigorous male rats in doses which do not influence motor activity or feeding behavior. This effect is prevented by naloxone, a specific inhibitor of opioid receptors. In addition, injections of naloxone induce copulatory behavior in sexually inactive male rats. These results suggest that endorphins play an important role in the regulation of sexual behavior.", "PMID": 432642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1205", "title": "Rank order of sarcoma susceptibility among mouse strains reverses with low concentrations of carcinogen.", "content": "Ten mouse strains in which aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase can be induced, or F1 hybrids of these strains, were ranked according to their sarcoma susceptibility when exposed to a high concentration (5 percent) of the chemical carcinogen 3-methylcholanthrene. This rank order was reversed when the concentration of 3-methylcholanthrene was reduced to 0.05 percent.", "contents": "Rank order of sarcoma susceptibility among mouse strains reverses with low concentrations of carcinogen. Ten mouse strains in which aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase can be induced, or F1 hybrids of these strains, were ranked according to their sarcoma susceptibility when exposed to a high concentration (5 percent) of the chemical carcinogen 3-methylcholanthrene. This rank order was reversed when the concentration of 3-methylcholanthrene was reduced to 0.05 percent.", "PMID": 432644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1206", "title": "Anomalous amide I infrared absorption of purple membrane.", "content": "Infrared absorption of purple membrane reveals an amide I frequency that falls outside the range normally found for alpha helices. This may indicate along with x-ray diffraction the existence of bacteriorhodopsin alpha helices with unusual structure.", "contents": "Anomalous amide I infrared absorption of purple membrane. Infrared absorption of purple membrane reveals an amide I frequency that falls outside the range normally found for alpha helices. This may indicate along with x-ray diffraction the existence of bacteriorhodopsin alpha helices with unusual structure.", "PMID": 432645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1207", "title": "Distribution of RNA transcripts from structural and intervening sequences of the ovalbumin gene.", "content": "A study was made of the function of the intervening sequences in the ovalbumin gene, Radioactively labeled DNA probes for the intervening sequences were prepared and RNA's were isolated from whole cells, nuclei, and polysomes of estrogen-stimulated chick oviducts. The concentrations of messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts from ovalbumin structural sequences (mRNAov) and transcripts corresponding to intervening sequences were then estimated by hybridization to cloned DNA probes. Oviduct tissue contains approximately 58,000 molecules of mRNAov sequences per tubular gland cell and most of these sequences are present in the cytoplasm. In contrast, there are 200 to 300 molecules of RNA per cell which are transcribed from the intervening sequences of the natural ovalbumin gene and almost all of these are found in the nucleus. The difference in distribution of structural and intervening sequence transcripts suggests that, unlike mature mRNA, the intervening sequences are not preferentially transported to cytoplasmic polysomes.", "contents": "Distribution of RNA transcripts from structural and intervening sequences of the ovalbumin gene. A study was made of the function of the intervening sequences in the ovalbumin gene, Radioactively labeled DNA probes for the intervening sequences were prepared and RNA's were isolated from whole cells, nuclei, and polysomes of estrogen-stimulated chick oviducts. The concentrations of messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts from ovalbumin structural sequences (mRNAov) and transcripts corresponding to intervening sequences were then estimated by hybridization to cloned DNA probes. Oviduct tissue contains approximately 58,000 molecules of mRNAov sequences per tubular gland cell and most of these sequences are present in the cytoplasm. In contrast, there are 200 to 300 molecules of RNA per cell which are transcribed from the intervening sequences of the natural ovalbumin gene and almost all of these are found in the nucleus. The difference in distribution of structural and intervening sequence transcripts suggests that, unlike mature mRNA, the intervening sequences are not preferentially transported to cytoplasmic polysomes.", "PMID": 432646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1208", "title": "Siamese cat: altered connections of visual cortex.", "content": "In siamese cats, each side of the brain receives a retinal input serving part of the ipsilateral visual field as well as the normal contralateral field representation. Both corticothalamic and cortico-cortical projections are systematically rearranged, but while one is retinotopically appropriate, the other fails to make a distinction between ipsilateral and contralateral fields. Different rules appear to govern the development of these two sets of connections.", "contents": "Siamese cat: altered connections of visual cortex. In siamese cats, each side of the brain receives a retinal input serving part of the ipsilateral visual field as well as the normal contralateral field representation. Both corticothalamic and cortico-cortical projections are systematically rearranged, but while one is retinotopically appropriate, the other fails to make a distinction between ipsilateral and contralateral fields. Different rules appear to govern the development of these two sets of connections.", "PMID": 432647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1209", "title": "Iron deficiency prevents liver toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.", "content": "The compound 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) causes hepatocellular damage and porphyria in C57B1/6J mice, among a wide range of toxic effects. We compared the effect of TCDD toxicity in iron-deficient mice with that in mice receiving a normal diet. Porphyria did not develop in the iron-deficient animals, and these animals were also protected from hepatocellular damage and certain other toxic effects of TCDD.", "contents": "Iron deficiency prevents liver toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. The compound 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) causes hepatocellular damage and porphyria in C57B1/6J mice, among a wide range of toxic effects. We compared the effect of TCDD toxicity in iron-deficient mice with that in mice receiving a normal diet. Porphyria did not develop in the iron-deficient animals, and these animals were also protected from hepatocellular damage and certain other toxic effects of TCDD.", "PMID": 432648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1210", "title": "Cement line motion in bone.", "content": "Compact bovine bone subjected to constant torsional load for long periods of time exhibits large anelastic effects. Displacements occur at the cement lines and are responsible for part or all of the long-term deformation. The absence of an asymptotic creep strain is consistent with an interpretation of the cement line as a viscous interface.", "contents": "Cement line motion in bone. Compact bovine bone subjected to constant torsional load for long periods of time exhibits large anelastic effects. Displacements occur at the cement lines and are responsible for part or all of the long-term deformation. The absence of an asymptotic creep strain is consistent with an interpretation of the cement line as a viscous interface.", "PMID": 432653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1211", "title": "Chicken gizzard: relation between calcium-activated phosphorylation and contraction.", "content": "Of the proteins in mechanically disrupted chicken gizzard fibers (no functional sarcolemma) only the 20,000-dalton light chains of myosin underwent large Ca2+-and Sr2+-dependent changes in phosphorylation. Phosphorylation closely corresponded with the Ca2+- and Sr2+-activated tensions. Adenosine 5'-O (3'-thiotriphosphate) only in the presence of Ca2+ induced irreversible Ca2+-insensitive activation of tension and thiophosphorylation of the 20,000-dalton light chains, and blocked incorporation of 32P from [gamma-32P]adenosine triphosphate into the myosin light chains.", "contents": "Chicken gizzard: relation between calcium-activated phosphorylation and contraction. Of the proteins in mechanically disrupted chicken gizzard fibers (no functional sarcolemma) only the 20,000-dalton light chains of myosin underwent large Ca2+-and Sr2+-dependent changes in phosphorylation. Phosphorylation closely corresponded with the Ca2+- and Sr2+-activated tensions. Adenosine 5'-O (3'-thiotriphosphate) only in the presence of Ca2+ induced irreversible Ca2+-insensitive activation of tension and thiophosphorylation of the 20,000-dalton light chains, and blocked incorporation of 32P from [gamma-32P]adenosine triphosphate into the myosin light chains.", "PMID": 432654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1212", "title": "Smoking impairs long-term dust clearance from the lung.", "content": "The time for the long-term clearance of dust from human lungs was measured. Three heavy cigarette smokers and nine nonsmokers inhaled a harmless trace amount of magnetic dust, Fe3O4. From periodic measurements with a sensitive magnetic detector of the amount of this dust remaining in the lungs, a clearance curve was determined for each subject. This magnetic tracer method allows clearance to be safely followed for a much longer time than with radioactive tracer methods. The dust clearance in the smokers is considerably slower than in the nonsmokers. After about a year, 50 percent of the dust originally deposited remained in the lungs of the smokers whereas only 10 percent remained in the lungs of the nonsmokers. The smokers therefore retained five times more dust than the nonsmokers. This impaired clearance of Fe3O4 suggests impaired clearance in smokers of other dusts, such as toxic occupational and urban dusts. The higher retention of these dusts may contribute to the higher incidence of lung diseases in smokers.", "contents": "Smoking impairs long-term dust clearance from the lung. The time for the long-term clearance of dust from human lungs was measured. Three heavy cigarette smokers and nine nonsmokers inhaled a harmless trace amount of magnetic dust, Fe3O4. From periodic measurements with a sensitive magnetic detector of the amount of this dust remaining in the lungs, a clearance curve was determined for each subject. This magnetic tracer method allows clearance to be safely followed for a much longer time than with radioactive tracer methods. The dust clearance in the smokers is considerably slower than in the nonsmokers. After about a year, 50 percent of the dust originally deposited remained in the lungs of the smokers whereas only 10 percent remained in the lungs of the nonsmokers. The smokers therefore retained five times more dust than the nonsmokers. This impaired clearance of Fe3O4 suggests impaired clearance in smokers of other dusts, such as toxic occupational and urban dusts. The higher retention of these dusts may contribute to the higher incidence of lung diseases in smokers.", "PMID": 432655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1213", "title": "Embryonic rodent brain contains estrogen receptors.", "content": "Estradiol-binding proteins with the properties of putative estrogen receptors are present in cytosol extracts of embryonic mouse hypothalamus and other brain regions. These embryonic estrogen receptors are adultlike in their high affinity and limited capacity for estradiol, sensitivity to diethylstilbestrol, ability to adhere to DNA, and behavior during DNA-cellulose affinity chromatography. As early as 4 days before birth, mouse hypothalamus has approximately 40 percent of the adult concentration of hypothalamic estrogen receptors with these properties. These observations raise the possibility that embryonic rodent brain has the biochemical potential to respond to sex hormones and that the critical period of brain sexual differentiation could be initiated prenatally.", "contents": "Embryonic rodent brain contains estrogen receptors. Estradiol-binding proteins with the properties of putative estrogen receptors are present in cytosol extracts of embryonic mouse hypothalamus and other brain regions. These embryonic estrogen receptors are adultlike in their high affinity and limited capacity for estradiol, sensitivity to diethylstilbestrol, ability to adhere to DNA, and behavior during DNA-cellulose affinity chromatography. As early as 4 days before birth, mouse hypothalamus has approximately 40 percent of the adult concentration of hypothalamic estrogen receptors with these properties. These observations raise the possibility that embryonic rodent brain has the biochemical potential to respond to sex hormones and that the critical period of brain sexual differentiation could be initiated prenatally.", "PMID": 432656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1214", "title": "Teleostean urophysis: urotensin II and ion transport across the isolated skin of a marine teleost.", "content": "The caudal neurosecretory peptide urotensin II rapidly inhibits by 30 percent the short-circuit current across the isolated skin of a marine teleost. The effect appears to be specific and cannot be attributed to actions of epinephrine, urotensin I, or arginine vasotocin. The results strongly suggest that urotensin II may act directly on ion-transporting cells involved in teleostean hypoosmoregulation.", "contents": "Teleostean urophysis: urotensin II and ion transport across the isolated skin of a marine teleost. The caudal neurosecretory peptide urotensin II rapidly inhibits by 30 percent the short-circuit current across the isolated skin of a marine teleost. The effect appears to be specific and cannot be attributed to actions of epinephrine, urotensin I, or arginine vasotocin. The results strongly suggest that urotensin II may act directly on ion-transporting cells involved in teleostean hypoosmoregulation.", "PMID": 432657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1215", "title": "Intraretinal distribution of cone pigments in certain teleost fishes.", "content": "Microspectrophotometric investigations of visual pigments in the teleost family Cichlidae determined that morphological \"twin cones\" need not be \"pigment twins\" as well. In each species there were two pigments that could be found in these cells; a \"longwave\" and a \"shortwave\" type whose precise spectral location varies for each species, making the terms red and green inadequate to describe them. Studies of the receptor mosaic with the nitro-blue tetrazolium chloride reduction technique permitted the sampling of larger receptor populations and confirmed that twin cones in several cichlid species could be either longwave-longwave, longwave-shortwave, or shortwave-shortwave pairs, and that the relative proportions of these twin cone types vary in different parts of the retinas. Nonuniform distribution of pigment types was also evident in the eyes of several other species from a variety of piscine taxa.", "contents": "Intraretinal distribution of cone pigments in certain teleost fishes. Microspectrophotometric investigations of visual pigments in the teleost family Cichlidae determined that morphological \"twin cones\" need not be \"pigment twins\" as well. In each species there were two pigments that could be found in these cells; a \"longwave\" and a \"shortwave\" type whose precise spectral location varies for each species, making the terms red and green inadequate to describe them. Studies of the receptor mosaic with the nitro-blue tetrazolium chloride reduction technique permitted the sampling of larger receptor populations and confirmed that twin cones in several cichlid species could be either longwave-longwave, longwave-shortwave, or shortwave-shortwave pairs, and that the relative proportions of these twin cone types vary in different parts of the retinas. Nonuniform distribution of pigment types was also evident in the eyes of several other species from a variety of piscine taxa.", "PMID": 432658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1216", "title": "Human skin fibroblasts derived from papillary and reticular dermis: differences in growth potential in vitro.", "content": "Papillary fibroblasts, when compared to reticular fibroblasts from the same skin specimen, exhibit greater proliferative capacities in vitro. These results demonstrate a difference in function between morphologically similar cells obtained from the same tissue. Such findings represent an important consideration in the study of cell aging in vitro.", "contents": "Human skin fibroblasts derived from papillary and reticular dermis: differences in growth potential in vitro. Papillary fibroblasts, when compared to reticular fibroblasts from the same skin specimen, exhibit greater proliferative capacities in vitro. These results demonstrate a difference in function between morphologically similar cells obtained from the same tissue. Such findings represent an important consideration in the study of cell aging in vitro.", "PMID": 432659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1217", "title": "Conditioned inhibition: selective response of single units.", "content": "Single cell activity and local field potentials in parastriate cortex of cats and rabbits were studied during a Pavlovian discrimination procedure. Cell activity was selectively modified; conditioned changes occurred in response either to the reinforced stimulus or to the unreinforced one, but not to both. Cells exhibiting conditioned alteration in response to the unreinforced stimulus are thought to participate in specialized circuits mediating conditioned inhibition.", "contents": "Conditioned inhibition: selective response of single units. Single cell activity and local field potentials in parastriate cortex of cats and rabbits were studied during a Pavlovian discrimination procedure. Cell activity was selectively modified; conditioned changes occurred in response either to the reinforced stimulus or to the unreinforced one, but not to both. Cells exhibiting conditioned alteration in response to the unreinforced stimulus are thought to participate in specialized circuits mediating conditioned inhibition.", "PMID": 432660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1218", "title": "Nanosecond X-ray diffraction from biological samples with a laser-produced plasma source.", "content": "By using 4.45-angstrom radiation generated by Cl+15 ions in a laser plasma and nanosecond exposures, low-angle x-ray diffraction patterns were obtained from dried rat spinal nerves and a powder of cholesterol. Three to four 400-picosecond, 45-joule pulses were required for the exposure. This new technique should have wide application in structural kinetic studies.", "contents": "Nanosecond X-ray diffraction from biological samples with a laser-produced plasma source. By using 4.45-angstrom radiation generated by Cl+15 ions in a laser plasma and nanosecond exposures, low-angle x-ray diffraction patterns were obtained from dried rat spinal nerves and a powder of cholesterol. Three to four 400-picosecond, 45-joule pulses were required for the exposure. This new technique should have wide application in structural kinetic studies.", "PMID": 432665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1219", "title": "Hydroxylase cofactor activity in cerebrospinal fluid of normal subjects and patients with Parkinson's disease.", "content": "A method for measuring hydroxylase cofactor activity in human cerebrospinal fluid is described. The hydroxylase cofactor content of cerebrsopinal fluid from Parkinsonian patients is approximately 50 percent that of normal subjects. A significant correlation between hydroxylase cofactor and the concentration of homovanillic acid in the cerebrospinal fluid was observed.", "contents": "Hydroxylase cofactor activity in cerebrospinal fluid of normal subjects and patients with Parkinson's disease. A method for measuring hydroxylase cofactor activity in human cerebrospinal fluid is described. The hydroxylase cofactor content of cerebrsopinal fluid from Parkinsonian patients is approximately 50 percent that of normal subjects. A significant correlation between hydroxylase cofactor and the concentration of homovanillic acid in the cerebrospinal fluid was observed.", "PMID": 432666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1220", "title": "Local cerebral glucose metabolism during controlled hypoxemia in rats.", "content": "2-Deoxy-[14C]glucose metabolism was examined in brains of hypoxic, normotensive rats by autoradiography, which revealed alternating cortical columns of high and low metabolism. Activity in white matter was increased severalfold over that in adjacent gray matter. The columns were anatomically related to penetrating cortical arteries with areas between arteries demonstrating higher rates of metabolism. The results suggest the presence of interarterial tissue oxygen gradients that influence regional glucose metabolism. The relatively greater sensitivity of white matter metabolism to hypoxia may lead to an understanding of white matter damage in postanoxic leukoencephalopathy.", "contents": "Local cerebral glucose metabolism during controlled hypoxemia in rats. 2-Deoxy-[14C]glucose metabolism was examined in brains of hypoxic, normotensive rats by autoradiography, which revealed alternating cortical columns of high and low metabolism. Activity in white matter was increased severalfold over that in adjacent gray matter. The columns were anatomically related to penetrating cortical arteries with areas between arteries demonstrating higher rates of metabolism. The results suggest the presence of interarterial tissue oxygen gradients that influence regional glucose metabolism. The relatively greater sensitivity of white matter metabolism to hypoxia may lead to an understanding of white matter damage in postanoxic leukoencephalopathy.", "PMID": 432667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1221", "title": "Clomid administration to pregnant rats causes abnormalities of the reproductive tract in offspring and mothers.", "content": "In rats, a single injection of clomiphene citrate (Clomid) during pregnancy causes multiple abnormalities of the reproductive tract in the offspring and mothers. These abnormalities probably result from the ability of Clomid to cause long-term estrogenic stimulation.", "contents": "Clomid administration to pregnant rats causes abnormalities of the reproductive tract in offspring and mothers. In rats, a single injection of clomiphene citrate (Clomid) during pregnancy causes multiple abnormalities of the reproductive tract in the offspring and mothers. These abnormalities probably result from the ability of Clomid to cause long-term estrogenic stimulation.", "PMID": 432668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1222", "title": "Neurotoxic fragrance produces ceroid and myelin disease.", "content": "Acetyl ethyl tetramethyl tetralin (AETT), a component of soaps, deodorants, and cosmetics, produces hyperirritability and limb weakness in rats repeatedly exposed to the compound. Brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves are discolored blue, show progressive neuronal ceroid degeneration, and develop spectacular myelin bubbling. These neurotoxic properties of AETT provide the basis for industry's decision to withdraw the compound from consumer products. In addition, AETT offers the experimentalist a new probe to explore the etiology and pathogeneses of human ceroid and myelin diseases.", "contents": "Neurotoxic fragrance produces ceroid and myelin disease. Acetyl ethyl tetramethyl tetralin (AETT), a component of soaps, deodorants, and cosmetics, produces hyperirritability and limb weakness in rats repeatedly exposed to the compound. Brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves are discolored blue, show progressive neuronal ceroid degeneration, and develop spectacular myelin bubbling. These neurotoxic properties of AETT provide the basis for industry's decision to withdraw the compound from consumer products. In addition, AETT offers the experimentalist a new probe to explore the etiology and pathogeneses of human ceroid and myelin diseases.", "PMID": 432669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1223", "title": "Sites of transition between functional systemic and cerebral arteries of rabbits occur at embryological junctional sites.", "content": "The vascular smooth muscle of cerebral blood vessels is relatively insensitive to sympathomimetic stimulation compared with muscle from systemic vessels. The transition in the vertebral artery occurs just rostral to the emergence of that artery from the foramen of the lateral process of the atlas and in the internal carotid artery just before it enters the carotid canal. These sites in the adult correspond to embryological junctions between segments of the vertebral and internal carotid arteries derived from the primitive dorsal aortas and their branches with vessels originating locally from the bilateral longitudinal neural arteries. Topographic patterns of vascular properties may in some cases be explained by the different sites of origin of their primordial mesodermal cells.", "contents": "Sites of transition between functional systemic and cerebral arteries of rabbits occur at embryological junctional sites. The vascular smooth muscle of cerebral blood vessels is relatively insensitive to sympathomimetic stimulation compared with muscle from systemic vessels. The transition in the vertebral artery occurs just rostral to the emergence of that artery from the foramen of the lateral process of the atlas and in the internal carotid artery just before it enters the carotid canal. These sites in the adult correspond to embryological junctions between segments of the vertebral and internal carotid arteries derived from the primitive dorsal aortas and their branches with vessels originating locally from the bilateral longitudinal neural arteries. Topographic patterns of vascular properties may in some cases be explained by the different sites of origin of their primordial mesodermal cells.", "PMID": 432670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1224", "title": "Tectorial membrane: a possible effect on frequency analysis in the cochlea.", "content": "Mathematical analysis and computer and network simulations of the cochlea show that, given appropriate values of specific physical constants, radial shear motion between the tectorial membrane and the reticular lamina may provide the sharpening of frequency analysis observed in cochlear nerve fibers in comparison with the mechanical amplitude distribution on the basilar membrane. According to the analysis, the sharpening occurs through an interaction of the longitudinal mechanical propagation constant of the tectorial membrane with the wavelength on the basilar membrane.", "contents": "Tectorial membrane: a possible effect on frequency analysis in the cochlea. Mathematical analysis and computer and network simulations of the cochlea show that, given appropriate values of specific physical constants, radial shear motion between the tectorial membrane and the reticular lamina may provide the sharpening of frequency analysis observed in cochlear nerve fibers in comparison with the mechanical amplitude distribution on the basilar membrane. According to the analysis, the sharpening occurs through an interaction of the longitudinal mechanical propagation constant of the tectorial membrane with the wavelength on the basilar membrane.", "PMID": 432671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1225", "title": "Hippocampal afterdischarges: differential spread of activity shown by the [14C]deoxyglucose technique.", "content": "Differential spread of afterdischarge activity initiated electrically in ventral and dorsal parts of the hippocampal formation was studied by the [14C]deoxyglucose technique in rats. Afterdischarges initiated in either the ventral or dorsal hippocampal formation, without activation of the ventral subicular cortex, increased glucose utilization in the lateral septum. In contrast, afterdischarges initiated by direct activation of the ventral subicular cortex increased glucose utilization in extensive areas of the ipsilateral amygdala, claustrum, hypothalamus, preoptic region, and basal forebrain.", "contents": "Hippocampal afterdischarges: differential spread of activity shown by the [14C]deoxyglucose technique. Differential spread of afterdischarge activity initiated electrically in ventral and dorsal parts of the hippocampal formation was studied by the [14C]deoxyglucose technique in rats. Afterdischarges initiated in either the ventral or dorsal hippocampal formation, without activation of the ventral subicular cortex, increased glucose utilization in the lateral septum. In contrast, afterdischarges initiated by direct activation of the ventral subicular cortex increased glucose utilization in extensive areas of the ipsilateral amygdala, claustrum, hypothalamus, preoptic region, and basal forebrain.", "PMID": 432672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1226", "title": "Clinical study of 81 gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors.", "content": "The behavior and treatment of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors have been the subject of much discussion. Size, location, and histologic invasiveness have been shown to correlate with regional and remote metastasis in previous series. We reviewed 81 patients with gastrointestinal carcinoids seen at the Medical University of South Carolina Teaching Hospitals since 1950. An unusual case of a 0.5 cm primary ileal carcinoid with widespread intra-abdominal and hepatic metastases is documented. In this series carcinoids were found (in order of decreasing frequency) in the ileum, appendix, rectum, right colon, duodenum, jejunum, stomach, ampulla of Vater, sigmoid colon, and pancreas. Metastases were found in 17% of the overall group. Two carcinoids presented with intussusception, while one was found within a Meckel's diverticulum. In addition to the small metastatic ileal carcinoid, one patient with a rectal carcinoid measuring 0.4 cm was found to have metastases after low anterior resection. Because all extra-appendiceal gastrointestinal carcinoids are potentially metastatic, it is stressed that regional lymphadenectomy en bloc with primary excision is the treatment of choice wherever feasible. If the lesion is small or has not invaded deeply, local excision with close follow-up may be an acceptable alternative.", "contents": "Clinical study of 81 gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors. The behavior and treatment of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors have been the subject of much discussion. Size, location, and histologic invasiveness have been shown to correlate with regional and remote metastasis in previous series. We reviewed 81 patients with gastrointestinal carcinoids seen at the Medical University of South Carolina Teaching Hospitals since 1950. An unusual case of a 0.5 cm primary ileal carcinoid with widespread intra-abdominal and hepatic metastases is documented. In this series carcinoids were found (in order of decreasing frequency) in the ileum, appendix, rectum, right colon, duodenum, jejunum, stomach, ampulla of Vater, sigmoid colon, and pancreas. Metastases were found in 17% of the overall group. Two carcinoids presented with intussusception, while one was found within a Meckel's diverticulum. In addition to the small metastatic ileal carcinoid, one patient with a rectal carcinoid measuring 0.4 cm was found to have metastases after low anterior resection. Because all extra-appendiceal gastrointestinal carcinoids are potentially metastatic, it is stressed that regional lymphadenectomy en bloc with primary excision is the treatment of choice wherever feasible. If the lesion is small or has not invaded deeply, local excision with close follow-up may be an acceptable alternative.", "PMID": 432675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1227", "title": "Treatment of cholelithiasis in patients with sickle cell anemia.", "content": "The incidence of cholelithiasis and surgical risk of cholecystectomy in patients with sickle cell anemia is reviewed. Records of all patients with sickle cell disease currently attending the Medical University of South Carolina Hematology Clinic were reviewed. An oral cholecystogram has been part of the initial evaluation for the past year. The records of 16 patients having cholecystectomy from 1968 to 1977 were reviewed with regard to diagnostic studies, preoperative preparation, morbidity, and mortality. When the status of the gallbladder is known, the incidence of cholelithiasis is 67%. The morbidity of elective cholecystectomy was high (37%); there was one death. Cholecystectomy is not recommended for the discovery of asymptomatic gallstones because of the relatively poor surgical risk and short life expectancy of these patients.", "contents": "Treatment of cholelithiasis in patients with sickle cell anemia. The incidence of cholelithiasis and surgical risk of cholecystectomy in patients with sickle cell anemia is reviewed. Records of all patients with sickle cell disease currently attending the Medical University of South Carolina Hematology Clinic were reviewed. An oral cholecystogram has been part of the initial evaluation for the past year. The records of 16 patients having cholecystectomy from 1968 to 1977 were reviewed with regard to diagnostic studies, preoperative preparation, morbidity, and mortality. When the status of the gallbladder is known, the incidence of cholelithiasis is 67%. The morbidity of elective cholecystectomy was high (37%); there was one death. Cholecystectomy is not recommended for the discovery of asymptomatic gallstones because of the relatively poor surgical risk and short life expectancy of these patients.", "PMID": 432676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1228", "title": "Surgical treatment of hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "Hyperparathyroidism, as seen by a single group of surgeons in a community of 320,000 is reviewed in a retrospective fashion. It was shown that symptomatic hypocalcemia could occur up to 110 hours postoperatively and was most likely to occur in individuals showing skeletal demineralization preoperatively. Though large doses of calcium were required postoperatively in three patients, permanent supplementation was not necessary in two of them. Five of seven patients operated upon for secondary hyperparathyroidism received little or no benefit, stimulating critical review of the appropriate indications in this patient population. Mechanical suction proved to be clearly superior to passive drainage.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of hyperparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism, as seen by a single group of surgeons in a community of 320,000 is reviewed in a retrospective fashion. It was shown that symptomatic hypocalcemia could occur up to 110 hours postoperatively and was most likely to occur in individuals showing skeletal demineralization preoperatively. Though large doses of calcium were required postoperatively in three patients, permanent supplementation was not necessary in two of them. Five of seven patients operated upon for secondary hyperparathyroidism received little or no benefit, stimulating critical review of the appropriate indications in this patient population. Mechanical suction proved to be clearly superior to passive drainage.", "PMID": 432677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1229", "title": "Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in Florida children: effect of anticonvulsant drugs.", "content": "The mean serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), determined by nonchromatographic radioassay, was significantly lower (P less than .02) in Florida children with epilepsy treated with anticonvulsant drugs (34.4 +/- 11.3 [SD] ng/ml) than in normal subjects (40.9 +/- 14.3), despite exposure of both groups to sunlight throughout the year. In 12% of children treated with anticonvulsant drugs, the 25OHD level was below the lowest value recorded in the control group. The mean serum concentration of 25OHD in normal Philadelphia children (27.5 +/- 9.1 ng/ml) was significantly less than in either group of Florida subjects. Annual monitoring of calcium homeostasis and vitamin D status is indicated in Southern children receiving anticonvulsant drugs, but routine vitamin D supplementation of such patients is unnecessary.", "contents": "Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in Florida children: effect of anticonvulsant drugs. The mean serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), determined by nonchromatographic radioassay, was significantly lower (P less than .02) in Florida children with epilepsy treated with anticonvulsant drugs (34.4 +/- 11.3 [SD] ng/ml) than in normal subjects (40.9 +/- 14.3), despite exposure of both groups to sunlight throughout the year. In 12% of children treated with anticonvulsant drugs, the 25OHD level was below the lowest value recorded in the control group. The mean serum concentration of 25OHD in normal Philadelphia children (27.5 +/- 9.1 ng/ml) was significantly less than in either group of Florida subjects. Annual monitoring of calcium homeostasis and vitamin D status is indicated in Southern children receiving anticonvulsant drugs, but routine vitamin D supplementation of such patients is unnecessary.", "PMID": 432678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1230", "title": "Gastric, intestinal, and gallbladder varices: hemodynamic and therapeutic considerations.", "content": "Atypically located varices are frequently overlooked in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with portal hypertension. The circulatory changes associated with these lesions are described and their relation to diagnosis and treatment emphasized.", "contents": "Gastric, intestinal, and gallbladder varices: hemodynamic and therapeutic considerations. Atypically located varices are frequently overlooked in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with portal hypertension. The circulatory changes associated with these lesions are described and their relation to diagnosis and treatment emphasized.", "PMID": 432679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1231", "title": "Medical education and the dying patient.", "content": "Several recent cases illustrate the medical-ethical-legal consequences associated with lack of awareness in caring for and treating the dying patient. We question whether solutions advanced by others are feasible or desirable for use in medical education, and suggest looking to the familiar principles of clinical medicine. These principles can be used to acquaint students and residents with the clinical model of medicine so they can learn the differences between the rights and duties of those occupying the \"sick\" and \"dying\" roles. Once these differences have been understood, then the rules for moving patients from one role to another can be gradually acquired in the course of medical practice. The task now is to resuscitate these traditional abilities in the context of our times.", "contents": "Medical education and the dying patient. Several recent cases illustrate the medical-ethical-legal consequences associated with lack of awareness in caring for and treating the dying patient. We question whether solutions advanced by others are feasible or desirable for use in medical education, and suggest looking to the familiar principles of clinical medicine. These principles can be used to acquaint students and residents with the clinical model of medicine so they can learn the differences between the rights and duties of those occupying the \"sick\" and \"dying\" roles. Once these differences have been understood, then the rules for moving patients from one role to another can be gradually acquired in the course of medical practice. The task now is to resuscitate these traditional abilities in the context of our times.", "PMID": 432680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1232", "title": "Simple screening technic to estimate postoperative narcotic use.", "content": "The General Health Questionnaire, a 30-item, self-response inventory, identified individuals who required significantly more pain medication after elective cholecystectomy. The questionnaire is well tolerated by surgical patients and is easy to score. It can identify those individuals prone to request excessive narcotic medication postoperatively.", "contents": "Simple screening technic to estimate postoperative narcotic use. The General Health Questionnaire, a 30-item, self-response inventory, identified individuals who required significantly more pain medication after elective cholecystectomy. The questionnaire is well tolerated by surgical patients and is easy to score. It can identify those individuals prone to request excessive narcotic medication postoperatively.", "PMID": 432681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1233", "title": "Death caused by brain herniation during hemodialysis.", "content": "Brain edema with brain herniation during or after dialysis has been reported previously. However, coexisting lesions of the central nervous system (CNS) which might play a facilitating role were present in these case reports. Described here is an 18-year-old white man with renal failure who developed clinical signs consistent with brain herniation while receiving his first hemodialysis treatment. He died two days later, after discontinuation of the supportive therapy and after the confirmation of brain death. Autopsy results documented brain edema with uncal and cerebellar tonsillar herniation without other coexisting pathologic lesions. The etiology of brain edema during the initial phase of dialysis is discussed.", "contents": "Death caused by brain herniation during hemodialysis. Brain edema with brain herniation during or after dialysis has been reported previously. However, coexisting lesions of the central nervous system (CNS) which might play a facilitating role were present in these case reports. Described here is an 18-year-old white man with renal failure who developed clinical signs consistent with brain herniation while receiving his first hemodialysis treatment. He died two days later, after discontinuation of the supportive therapy and after the confirmation of brain death. Autopsy results documented brain edema with uncal and cerebellar tonsillar herniation without other coexisting pathologic lesions. The etiology of brain edema during the initial phase of dialysis is discussed.", "PMID": 432682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1234", "title": "Myopathy limited to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles occurring in three brothers.", "content": "This is a report of three cases of myopathy limited to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles, occurring in the male offspring of the same mother but two different fathers. They have many similarities to a previously described clinical syndrome called quadriceps-confined myopathy. The pedigree demonstrates an apparent sex-linked recessive condition which has not been demonstrated previously. Information gained from a review of the literature is related to these three cases. It is suggested that these cases are part of a poorly defined clinical entity and that a new classification of quadriceps-gastrocnemius muscular dystrophy be introduced.", "contents": "Myopathy limited to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles occurring in three brothers. This is a report of three cases of myopathy limited to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles, occurring in the male offspring of the same mother but two different fathers. They have many similarities to a previously described clinical syndrome called quadriceps-confined myopathy. The pedigree demonstrates an apparent sex-linked recessive condition which has not been demonstrated previously. Information gained from a review of the literature is related to these three cases. It is suggested that these cases are part of a poorly defined clinical entity and that a new classification of quadriceps-gastrocnemius muscular dystrophy be introduced.", "PMID": 432683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1235", "title": "Respiratory failure secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.", "content": "Three previously healthy patients presented with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, hypoxemia, and respiratory failure associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. None had underlying pulmonary or immune deficiency diseases. One died with dense fibrotic reorganization of the lungs, and another survived after prolonged mechanical ventilatory assistance. Two developed pulmonary superinfections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All had extrapulmonary complications: one had Coombs'-positive hemolytic anemia, another myocarditis, and all three had abnormal results of liver function tests, consistent with hepatocellular dysfunction.", "contents": "Respiratory failure secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Three previously healthy patients presented with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, hypoxemia, and respiratory failure associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. None had underlying pulmonary or immune deficiency diseases. One died with dense fibrotic reorganization of the lungs, and another survived after prolonged mechanical ventilatory assistance. Two developed pulmonary superinfections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All had extrapulmonary complications: one had Coombs'-positive hemolytic anemia, another myocarditis, and all three had abnormal results of liver function tests, consistent with hepatocellular dysfunction.", "PMID": 432684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1236", "title": "Surgical management of nasal valvular obstruction of dorsal origin.", "content": "Nasal obstruction from valvular dysfunction may take many forms besides alar collapse. Some valvular stenoses result from scarring and tissue loss from the dorsum of the nose. Any surgical correction should take into consideration replacement of lost tissue. Several surgical means of handling this type of obstruction are described.", "contents": "Surgical management of nasal valvular obstruction of dorsal origin. Nasal obstruction from valvular dysfunction may take many forms besides alar collapse. Some valvular stenoses result from scarring and tissue loss from the dorsum of the nose. Any surgical correction should take into consideration replacement of lost tissue. Several surgical means of handling this type of obstruction are described.", "PMID": 432685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1237", "title": "Simplified endometrial testing by the Milan-Markley technic.", "content": "Recent articles have urged physicians to give increased attention to the use of cytologic and histopathologic technics in the detection of precancerous and cancerous endometrial lesions, since there is an increasing incidence of malignant disease at that site. A routine cervicovaginal smear is inadequate to diagnose cancer of the endometrium. This paper describes a technic for rapid smearing and fixation of endometrical cells. The method of obtaining endometrial cytologic and histologic material is by the use of a helix. A report on 1,748 endometrial cytologic smears is given.", "contents": "Simplified endometrial testing by the Milan-Markley technic. Recent articles have urged physicians to give increased attention to the use of cytologic and histopathologic technics in the detection of precancerous and cancerous endometrial lesions, since there is an increasing incidence of malignant disease at that site. A routine cervicovaginal smear is inadequate to diagnose cancer of the endometrium. This paper describes a technic for rapid smearing and fixation of endometrical cells. The method of obtaining endometrial cytologic and histologic material is by the use of a helix. A report on 1,748 endometrial cytologic smears is given.", "PMID": 432686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1238", "title": "\"Diphtheroid\" pneumonia.", "content": "We have described a case of pneumonia caused by Corynebacterium CDC Group D2 which was diagnosed by Gram stain of a specimen obtained by transtracheal aspiration and recovery of the organisms from the aspirate specimen in pure culture. Treatment with penicillin was successful.", "contents": "\"Diphtheroid\" pneumonia. We have described a case of pneumonia caused by Corynebacterium CDC Group D2 which was diagnosed by Gram stain of a specimen obtained by transtracheal aspiration and recovery of the organisms from the aspirate specimen in pure culture. Treatment with penicillin was successful.", "PMID": 432687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1239", "title": "Pulmonary infection with Petriellidium boydii.", "content": "A 52-year-old woman with pulmonary involvement with Petriellidium boydii in a bronchiectatic lung segment is described. Pulmonary involvement with this organism has been most frequently described in patients with underlying systemic diseases or compromised immune systems. This patient apparently had neither problem and was normal in all other aspects. Surgical resection was done to avoid local pulmonary parenchymal invasion or dissemination of this fungus. The patient is now in good health two years after operation.", "contents": "Pulmonary infection with Petriellidium boydii. A 52-year-old woman with pulmonary involvement with Petriellidium boydii in a bronchiectatic lung segment is described. Pulmonary involvement with this organism has been most frequently described in patients with underlying systemic diseases or compromised immune systems. This patient apparently had neither problem and was normal in all other aspects. Surgical resection was done to avoid local pulmonary parenchymal invasion or dissemination of this fungus. The patient is now in good health two years after operation.", "PMID": 432688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1240", "title": "Electrocardiographic changes associated with multiple yellow jacket stings.", "content": "A previously healthy 38-year-old man was stung multiple times by yellow jackets without any signs of anaphylaxis being observed. An electrocardiogram taken 16 hours later revealed episodes of wandering atrial pacemaker, junctional rhythm, and intermittent premature ventricular contractions. These arrhythmias disappeared spontaneously.", "contents": "Electrocardiographic changes associated with multiple yellow jacket stings. A previously healthy 38-year-old man was stung multiple times by yellow jackets without any signs of anaphylaxis being observed. An electrocardiogram taken 16 hours later revealed episodes of wandering atrial pacemaker, junctional rhythm, and intermittent premature ventricular contractions. These arrhythmias disappeared spontaneously.", "PMID": 432690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1241", "title": "Myospherulosis.", "content": "A young Thai immigrant presented with a mass in the left hip, pain, and difficulty in ambulation. At operation, the mass was found to be a group of cysts containing bizarre, fungus-like structures like those first described in Africa and recently in St. Louis. The cause of this condition may be iatrogenic, resulting from a peculiar reaction to intramuscular injection.", "contents": "Myospherulosis. A young Thai immigrant presented with a mass in the left hip, pain, and difficulty in ambulation. At operation, the mass was found to be a group of cysts containing bizarre, fungus-like structures like those first described in Africa and recently in St. Louis. The cause of this condition may be iatrogenic, resulting from a peculiar reaction to intramuscular injection.", "PMID": 432691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1242", "title": "Persistent tracheal dilatation: onset after brief mechanical ventilation with a \"soft-cuff\" endotracheal tube.", "content": "Persistent tracheal dilatation, a sign of severe tracheal damage, has been reported in the past primarily as a complication of prolonged mechanical ventilation through high-pressure, low-compliance cuffs of tracheostomy and endotracheal tubes. A case is presented in which a 26-year-old man developed severe tracheal dilatation with a soft-cuff endotracheal tube beginning four days after intubation, which persisted despite only eight total days of intubation and mechanical ventilation. The pathogenesis and possible prevention of this complication are reviewed.", "contents": "Persistent tracheal dilatation: onset after brief mechanical ventilation with a \"soft-cuff\" endotracheal tube. Persistent tracheal dilatation, a sign of severe tracheal damage, has been reported in the past primarily as a complication of prolonged mechanical ventilation through high-pressure, low-compliance cuffs of tracheostomy and endotracheal tubes. A case is presented in which a 26-year-old man developed severe tracheal dilatation with a soft-cuff endotracheal tube beginning four days after intubation, which persisted despite only eight total days of intubation and mechanical ventilation. The pathogenesis and possible prevention of this complication are reviewed.", "PMID": 432692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1243", "title": "Ureteral obstruction caused by malacoplakia of the bladder over the ureteral orifice.", "content": "We have described a case of malacoplakia presenting with uremia in a young, previously healthy black man. Malacoplakia was found in the bladder over both ureteral orifices, causing obstruction. The patient was treated with antibiotics, a percutaneous nephrostomy tube, and finally with transurethral resection of the malacoplakia over the ureteral orifices. The patient's renal function improved dramatically and he is presently asymptomatic.", "contents": "Ureteral obstruction caused by malacoplakia of the bladder over the ureteral orifice. We have described a case of malacoplakia presenting with uremia in a young, previously healthy black man. Malacoplakia was found in the bladder over both ureteral orifices, causing obstruction. The patient was treated with antibiotics, a percutaneous nephrostomy tube, and finally with transurethral resection of the malacoplakia over the ureteral orifices. The patient's renal function improved dramatically and he is presently asymptomatic.", "PMID": 432693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1244", "title": "Sickle cell anemia in the neonatal period.", "content": "Although sickle cell anemia rarely presents with clinical manifestations in the newborn period, it should be considered a possible cause of unexplained early jaundice in black newborn infants. If sickle cell disease is suspected, sickle cell preparation and hemoglobin electrophoresis of the infant and of both parents should be carried out.", "contents": "Sickle cell anemia in the neonatal period. Although sickle cell anemia rarely presents with clinical manifestations in the newborn period, it should be considered a possible cause of unexplained early jaundice in black newborn infants. If sickle cell disease is suspected, sickle cell preparation and hemoglobin electrophoresis of the infant and of both parents should be carried out.", "PMID": 432694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1245", "title": "Hemangioma of the ovary in an 81-year-old woman.", "content": "We have reported a case of cavernous hemangioma of the ovary in an 81-year-old woman with uterine prolapse and without ascites. Review of the literature reveals that this is the oldest patient reported. The size of the lesion is considered large at 5 cm in diameter. No associated disease or other lesions were present. The lesion was an incidental finding with no complications.", "contents": "Hemangioma of the ovary in an 81-year-old woman. We have reported a case of cavernous hemangioma of the ovary in an 81-year-old woman with uterine prolapse and without ascites. Review of the literature reveals that this is the oldest patient reported. The size of the lesion is considered large at 5 cm in diameter. No associated disease or other lesions were present. The lesion was an incidental finding with no complications.", "PMID": 432698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1246", "title": "Septic arthritis after ureteroneocystostomy.", "content": "Acute infectious arthritis is an uncommon disease that is most commonly caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gram-positive cocci. Gram-negative bacteria are an infrequent and highly virulent cause of septic arthritis and most commonly enter the circulation through the urinary tract, as in this case after ureteroneocystostomy. The resulting arthritis carries a mortality of 25% and a morbidity of 80%. Early recognition and treatment with appropriate antibiotics and mechanical drainage is imperative. Needle drainage of the affected joint has been shown superior to open surgical drainage.", "contents": "Septic arthritis after ureteroneocystostomy. Acute infectious arthritis is an uncommon disease that is most commonly caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gram-positive cocci. Gram-negative bacteria are an infrequent and highly virulent cause of septic arthritis and most commonly enter the circulation through the urinary tract, as in this case after ureteroneocystostomy. The resulting arthritis carries a mortality of 25% and a morbidity of 80%. Early recognition and treatment with appropriate antibiotics and mechanical drainage is imperative. Needle drainage of the affected joint has been shown superior to open surgical drainage.", "PMID": 432699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1247", "title": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation in sickle cell crisis.", "content": "We conclude that DIC can occur as a result of sickle cell crisis in the absence of sepsis and we recommend that patients with sickle cell disease, particularly those with hemoglobin SC disease, presenting in crisis should be considered at risk for the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation. With symptomatic treatment and improvement of the crisis, our patient's coagulopathy resolved.", "contents": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation in sickle cell crisis. We conclude that DIC can occur as a result of sickle cell crisis in the absence of sepsis and we recommend that patients with sickle cell disease, particularly those with hemoglobin SC disease, presenting in crisis should be considered at risk for the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation. With symptomatic treatment and improvement of the crisis, our patient's coagulopathy resolved.", "PMID": 432700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1248", "title": "Studies on spinal and peripheral muscles from patients with scoliosis.", "content": "This report describes part of a wider study on muscles from patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The aim of the study was to clarify if there exists a side-related pathology in the spinal musculature and if extraspinal muscles are abnormal in scoliosis patients. In scoliotic patients, both spinal and peripheral muscles showed frequent abnormalities when examined morphologically and histometrically by light and electron microscopy. Idiopathic scoliosis patients differed from the others. Morphologic pathology seemed worse on the concave side. A mild Type I fiber atrophy occurred in spinal muscles on the concave side and in the deltoids. A generalized tendency towards small myofibers was also noted. The findings suggest that there is a generalized specific neuromuscular disorder causing idiopathic scoliosis.", "contents": "Studies on spinal and peripheral muscles from patients with scoliosis. This report describes part of a wider study on muscles from patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The aim of the study was to clarify if there exists a side-related pathology in the spinal musculature and if extraspinal muscles are abnormal in scoliosis patients. In scoliotic patients, both spinal and peripheral muscles showed frequent abnormalities when examined morphologically and histometrically by light and electron microscopy. Idiopathic scoliosis patients differed from the others. Morphologic pathology seemed worse on the concave side. A mild Type I fiber atrophy occurred in spinal muscles on the concave side and in the deltoids. A generalized tendency towards small myofibers was also noted. The findings suggest that there is a generalized specific neuromuscular disorder causing idiopathic scoliosis.", "PMID": 432711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1249", "title": "Lung function in young persons after spinal fusion for scoliosis.", "content": "The long-term changes in vital capacity and in total lung capacity after spinal fusion for 43 scoliotic patients are described. The values recorded were seldom lower after surgery but did not show any marked subsequent increases with patient growth. Subsequent increases in volumes are less marked in the group of patients with paralytic scoliosis. These findings suggest that the psychological advantages of improving the patient's appearance by surgery and of preventing any respiratory condition from worsening may be achieved, although the total capacity and vital capacity are not much improved by spinal fusion.", "contents": "Lung function in young persons after spinal fusion for scoliosis. The long-term changes in vital capacity and in total lung capacity after spinal fusion for 43 scoliotic patients are described. The values recorded were seldom lower after surgery but did not show any marked subsequent increases with patient growth. Subsequent increases in volumes are less marked in the group of patients with paralytic scoliosis. These findings suggest that the psychological advantages of improving the patient's appearance by surgery and of preventing any respiratory condition from worsening may be achieved, although the total capacity and vital capacity are not much improved by spinal fusion.", "PMID": 432712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1250", "title": "Mechanical properties of human lumbar spine motion segments. Influence of age, sex, disc level, and degeneration.", "content": "The influences of age, sex, disc level, and degree of degenration on the mechanical behavior of 42 fresh cadaver lumbar motion segments are reported. The motions and intradiscal pressure changes that result from the application of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsional moments; compression; and anterior, posterior, and lateral shears are described. The authors find that the mean behaviors of the different segment classes sometimes differ, but these differences are seldom pronounced. Scatter in the behavior of individual motion segments is pronounced, and very often overshadows any class differences.", "contents": "Mechanical properties of human lumbar spine motion segments. Influence of age, sex, disc level, and degeneration. The influences of age, sex, disc level, and degree of degenration on the mechanical behavior of 42 fresh cadaver lumbar motion segments are reported. The motions and intradiscal pressure changes that result from the application of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsional moments; compression; and anterior, posterior, and lateral shears are described. The authors find that the mean behaviors of the different segment classes sometimes differ, but these differences are seldom pronounced. Scatter in the behavior of individual motion segments is pronounced, and very often overshadows any class differences.", "PMID": 432710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1251", "title": "Simultaneous anterior and posterior surgical approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine.", "content": "A technique for the simultaneous anterior and posterior surgical approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine is presented. No intraoperative repositioning of the patient is required. The procedure requires a surgical team of two spinal surgeons and two assistant surgeons, as well as an anesthesiologist familiar with hypotensive techniques. The procedure as utilized in 14 cases has proven to be safe and expeditious. The simultaneous anteroposterior approach has proven to be especially useful in cases with combined anterior and posterior instability. The technique described provides the experienced spinal surgeon with the best solution to certain complex spinal problems.", "contents": "Simultaneous anterior and posterior surgical approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine. A technique for the simultaneous anterior and posterior surgical approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine is presented. No intraoperative repositioning of the patient is required. The procedure requires a surgical team of two spinal surgeons and two assistant surgeons, as well as an anesthesiologist familiar with hypotensive techniques. The procedure as utilized in 14 cases has proven to be safe and expeditious. The simultaneous anteroposterior approach has proven to be especially useful in cases with combined anterior and posterior instability. The technique described provides the experienced spinal surgeon with the best solution to certain complex spinal problems.", "PMID": 432713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1252", "title": "Neurologic recovery of paraplegia following use of salmon calcitonin in a patient with Paget's disease of spine.", "content": "A case report of spastic paraparesis due to Paget's disease of the dorsal spine is presented. The patient became almost completely paralyzed in the lower limbs in spite of a decompressive laminectomy. He was treated with salmon calcitonin with very rapid neurologic recovery. The limits of the regimen and possible complications are discussed.", "contents": "Neurologic recovery of paraplegia following use of salmon calcitonin in a patient with Paget's disease of spine. A case report of spastic paraparesis due to Paget's disease of the dorsal spine is presented. The patient became almost completely paralyzed in the lower limbs in spite of a decompressive laminectomy. He was treated with salmon calcitonin with very rapid neurologic recovery. The limits of the regimen and possible complications are discussed.", "PMID": 432714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1253", "title": "The influence of backrest inclination and lumbar support on lumbar lordosis.", "content": "The influence of backrest inclination and lumbar support on the shape of the lumbar spine in sitting positions has been studied radiographically on 38 healthy subjects. Four angles of backrest inclination and four different sizes of lumbar support were studied. In addition, the lumbar support was placed at three different lumbar levels. When sitting down from a standing position, the pelvis rotates and the lumbar lordosis decreases. Increases in the backrest-seat angle had only minor effect on the lumbar lordosis. A lumbar support, on the other hand, had a significant influence: the lordosis increased with increasing support. The location of the lumbar support with respect to the level of the spine did not significantly influence the measured angles.", "contents": "The influence of backrest inclination and lumbar support on lumbar lordosis. The influence of backrest inclination and lumbar support on the shape of the lumbar spine in sitting positions has been studied radiographically on 38 healthy subjects. Four angles of backrest inclination and four different sizes of lumbar support were studied. In addition, the lumbar support was placed at three different lumbar levels. When sitting down from a standing position, the pelvis rotates and the lumbar lordosis decreases. Increases in the backrest-seat angle had only minor effect on the lumbar lordosis. A lumbar support, on the other hand, had a significant influence: the lordosis increased with increasing support. The location of the lumbar support with respect to the level of the spine did not significantly influence the measured angles.", "PMID": 432716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1254", "title": "Thoracic disc herniation. Treatment and prognosis.", "content": "Thoracic disc herniation is difficult to recognize. Diagnosis is easily made when the patient has a paraparesis, but at this point the disc herniation is usually large, and the result of the disc removal is less certain. Most of the 7 patients discussed had an early diagnosis made. Six patients were treated by the transthoracic anterolateral approach, and improvement occurred in all.", "contents": "Thoracic disc herniation. Treatment and prognosis. Thoracic disc herniation is difficult to recognize. Diagnosis is easily made when the patient has a paraparesis, but at this point the disc herniation is usually large, and the result of the disc removal is less certain. Most of the 7 patients discussed had an early diagnosis made. Six patients were treated by the transthoracic anterolateral approach, and improvement occurred in all.", "PMID": 432715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1255", "title": "The stoop-test in lumbar entrapment radiculopathy.", "content": "Disabling neurologic symptoms with a paucity of focal signs are frequently encountered in patients who suffer from intermittent cauda equina compression syndromes. The stoop-test has diagnostic merit in these instances. The author's clinical experiences, the test, and its anatomic basis are described.", "contents": "The stoop-test in lumbar entrapment radiculopathy. Disabling neurologic symptoms with a paucity of focal signs are frequently encountered in patients who suffer from intermittent cauda equina compression syndromes. The stoop-test has diagnostic merit in these instances. The author's clinical experiences, the test, and its anatomic basis are described.", "PMID": 432719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1256", "title": "The treatment of lumbar spondyloptosis or impending lumbar spondyloptosis accompanied by neurologic deficit and/or neurogenic intermittent claudication.", "content": "Three patients with complete lumbar spondyloptosis and 8 patients with fourth-degree spondylolisthesis suffering from radicular signs and symptoms are reported. There were 8 female and 3 male patients in the study. A high incidence of neurogenic intermittent claudication was noted in this condition. Decompressive laminectomy and foraminectomy were performed on all patients followed by transabdominal console fusion. Length of follow-up varied from 3 to 17 years, with a mean value of 13.5 years, and results are reported. Radicular signs and symptoms had completely subsided in all cases. Nine of 11 patients are free from signs and symptoms and 2 suffer from residual pain, although less severe than before surgery. All 3 males fathered children after surgery, which is in contrast to the opinion that anterior lumbosacrial fusion is followed by infertility in males. Special attention was given to individuality of remodeling of the lumbosacral junction over the course of time. Solid fusion was obtained in 10 of the 11 patients, while the console fusion collapsed because of failure to follow instructions after surgery in 1 patient.", "contents": "The treatment of lumbar spondyloptosis or impending lumbar spondyloptosis accompanied by neurologic deficit and/or neurogenic intermittent claudication. Three patients with complete lumbar spondyloptosis and 8 patients with fourth-degree spondylolisthesis suffering from radicular signs and symptoms are reported. There were 8 female and 3 male patients in the study. A high incidence of neurogenic intermittent claudication was noted in this condition. Decompressive laminectomy and foraminectomy were performed on all patients followed by transabdominal console fusion. Length of follow-up varied from 3 to 17 years, with a mean value of 13.5 years, and results are reported. Radicular signs and symptoms had completely subsided in all cases. Nine of 11 patients are free from signs and symptoms and 2 suffer from residual pain, although less severe than before surgery. All 3 males fathered children after surgery, which is in contrast to the opinion that anterior lumbosacrial fusion is followed by infertility in males. Special attention was given to individuality of remodeling of the lumbosacral junction over the course of time. Solid fusion was obtained in 10 of the 11 patients, while the console fusion collapsed because of failure to follow instructions after surgery in 1 patient.", "PMID": 432718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1257", "title": "Congenital atlantoaxial fusion. A case report.", "content": "An adult patient, after a minor fall, had a painful neck, and roentgenograms of the affected area showed a separate odontoid with the remnant fused to the anterior ring of the atlas. The multiple nature of the anomalies, coupled with the lack of significant trauma, indicated that the finding was that of congenital atlantoaxial fusion.", "contents": "Congenital atlantoaxial fusion. A case report. An adult patient, after a minor fall, had a painful neck, and roentgenograms of the affected area showed a separate odontoid with the remnant fused to the anterior ring of the atlas. The multiple nature of the anomalies, coupled with the lack of significant trauma, indicated that the finding was that of congenital atlantoaxial fusion.", "PMID": 432720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1258", "title": "Factors influencing drug compliance in ambulatory Black urban patients.", "content": "The present study was designed to ascertain the causes of patient non-compliance among 150 urban Black patients. Three groups of patients were studied: those with acute illnesses, a chronic asymptomatic group and a chronic symptomatic group. The incidence of causes of non-compliance was found to be similar to that described in other population groups. A variety of faults in the health care delivery system has been pin-pointed and is discussed.", "contents": "Factors influencing drug compliance in ambulatory Black urban patients. The present study was designed to ascertain the causes of patient non-compliance among 150 urban Black patients. Three groups of patients were studied: those with acute illnesses, a chronic asymptomatic group and a chronic symptomatic group. The incidence of causes of non-compliance was found to be similar to that described in other population groups. A variety of faults in the health care delivery system has been pin-pointed and is discussed.", "PMID": 432731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1259", "title": "Clinical experience with methylphenidate.", "content": "The indications for the use of methylphenidate in 250 children are reviewed, and the effect of the drug is examined. Concentration was improved or hyperactive behaviour diminished in 89% of the children with normal intelligence and with no gross physical defect, in 72% of the children with cerebral palsy, and 68% of the children with subnormal intelligence. In children with emotional disturbance, response to methylphenidate was seldom satisfactory. Significant side-effects occurred infrequently and only 2 children lost weight during the period of medication.", "contents": "Clinical experience with methylphenidate. The indications for the use of methylphenidate in 250 children are reviewed, and the effect of the drug is examined. Concentration was improved or hyperactive behaviour diminished in 89% of the children with normal intelligence and with no gross physical defect, in 72% of the children with cerebral palsy, and 68% of the children with subnormal intelligence. In children with emotional disturbance, response to methylphenidate was seldom satisfactory. Significant side-effects occurred infrequently and only 2 children lost weight during the period of medication.", "PMID": 432732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1260", "title": "The problem of child safety in South Africa.", "content": "In Europe and the USA accidents are regarded as a public health problem. South Africa has not kept pace with this trend, particularly in the field of child safety. The Child Safety Centre, which aims at the investigation and prevention of childhood accidents, was established in Cape Town in 1978.", "contents": "The problem of child safety in South Africa. In Europe and the USA accidents are regarded as a public health problem. South Africa has not kept pace with this trend, particularly in the field of child safety. The Child Safety Centre, which aims at the investigation and prevention of childhood accidents, was established in Cape Town in 1978.", "PMID": 432733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1261", "title": "Immunization in childhood.", "content": "A symposium on immunization provided an opportunity for resolving many of the uncertainties and inconsistencies which prevail, among general practitioners in particular, with regard to immunization programmes in childhood.", "contents": "Immunization in childhood. A symposium on immunization provided an opportunity for resolving many of the uncertainties and inconsistencies which prevail, among general practitioners in particular, with regard to immunization programmes in childhood.", "PMID": 432734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1262", "title": "Future health workers for Southern Africa.", "content": "Long-term planning for health in southern Africa must be holistic; such planning must include sociological, economic, political, manpower and epidemiological considerations. This paper proposes a health system model and examines the educational implications of the model for future health workers.", "contents": "Future health workers for Southern Africa. Long-term planning for health in southern Africa must be holistic; such planning must include sociological, economic, political, manpower and epidemiological considerations. This paper proposes a health system model and examines the educational implications of the model for future health workers.", "PMID": 432735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1263", "title": "Metastatic breast carcinoma presenting as obstructive jaundice. A report of 3 cases.", "content": "Three patients who developed obstructive jaundice after mastectomy for carcinoma of the breast are presented. Prognosis is invariably poor as widespread metastases are usually present at the time of presentation. The pathogenesis, investigations and clinical significance are discussed.", "contents": "Metastatic breast carcinoma presenting as obstructive jaundice. A report of 3 cases. Three patients who developed obstructive jaundice after mastectomy for carcinoma of the breast are presented. Prognosis is invariably poor as widespread metastases are usually present at the time of presentation. The pathogenesis, investigations and clinical significance are discussed.", "PMID": 432736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1264", "title": "The postoperative myelogram.", "content": "Myelographic changes after spinal operation are often difficult to interpret especially with regard to the differentiation between arachnoiditis and recurrent disc prolapse. The radiological appearances using iophendylate (Myodil) and the distinguishing features are discussed and illustrated.", "contents": "The postoperative myelogram. Myelographic changes after spinal operation are often difficult to interpret especially with regard to the differentiation between arachnoiditis and recurrent disc prolapse. The radiological appearances using iophendylate (Myodil) and the distinguishing features are discussed and illustrated.", "PMID": 432745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1265", "title": "A comparison of the plasma viscosity and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate as screening tests.", "content": "Plasma viscosity (PV) and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were determined in 343 patients. The results were correlated with the presence or absence of a clinical diagnosis usually associated with a raised ESR. The percentages of false-positive results were 4,9% and 3,8% and those of false-negative results were 12,8% and 13,1% for the PV and ESR respectively. PV measurements led to the detection of 8 cases of hypoproteinaemia in patients with normal ESR values, and could also detect and quantify hyperproteinaemias. In coeliac disease the PV correlated closely with the total plasma protein measurement. In a case of subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) the two tests varied with the disease process in approximately parallel fashions. PV measurements have several important technical advantages over the ESR, and could replace the ESR as a primary screening test for organic disease. They can also be used to detect hypoproteinaemia in a malnourished population.", "contents": "A comparison of the plasma viscosity and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate as screening tests. Plasma viscosity (PV) and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were determined in 343 patients. The results were correlated with the presence or absence of a clinical diagnosis usually associated with a raised ESR. The percentages of false-positive results were 4,9% and 3,8% and those of false-negative results were 12,8% and 13,1% for the PV and ESR respectively. PV measurements led to the detection of 8 cases of hypoproteinaemia in patients with normal ESR values, and could also detect and quantify hyperproteinaemias. In coeliac disease the PV correlated closely with the total plasma protein measurement. In a case of subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) the two tests varied with the disease process in approximately parallel fashions. PV measurements have several important technical advantages over the ESR, and could replace the ESR as a primary screening test for organic disease. They can also be used to detect hypoproteinaemia in a malnourished population.", "PMID": 432746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1266", "title": "[Psychiatric aspects of therapeutic abortion].", "content": "The indications for termination of pregnancy in terms of the Abortion and Sterilization Act of 1975, and the evaluation of 100 pregnant White women are discussed.", "contents": "[Psychiatric aspects of therapeutic abortion]. The indications for termination of pregnancy in terms of the Abortion and Sterilization Act of 1975, and the evaluation of 100 pregnant White women are discussed.", "PMID": 432747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1267", "title": "[The influence of sports injuries on sport participation and work].", "content": "The incidence and complications of sport injuries in athletics, basketball, gymnastics, hockey, netball, cricket, tennis and soccer were analysed from questionnaire responses of 239 sport participants in Pretoria. Lower limb injuries were most common (73%). Torn tendomuscular organs represented 29,3% of the total number of injuries; sprains, strains and dislocations 35,9%; and fractures 20,5%. Medical treatment was sought by 62,8% of the patients. A total of 60,7% of the subjects was advised to suspend further participation in sport, but 30,6% failed to do so and more than half of these again sustained injuries. Those who were booked off from work totalled 18,0%, but a further 4,5% stayed away from work voluntarily.", "contents": "[The influence of sports injuries on sport participation and work]. The incidence and complications of sport injuries in athletics, basketball, gymnastics, hockey, netball, cricket, tennis and soccer were analysed from questionnaire responses of 239 sport participants in Pretoria. Lower limb injuries were most common (73%). Torn tendomuscular organs represented 29,3% of the total number of injuries; sprains, strains and dislocations 35,9%; and fractures 20,5%. Medical treatment was sought by 62,8% of the patients. A total of 60,7% of the subjects was advised to suspend further participation in sport, but 30,6% failed to do so and more than half of these again sustained injuries. Those who were booked off from work totalled 18,0%, but a further 4,5% stayed away from work voluntarily.", "PMID": 432748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1268", "title": "Choledochocele. A case report.", "content": "A case of a young man with a choledochocele is presented. The entity is rare and symptoms are usually nonspecific. Pre-operative diagnosis is often not made but is usually possible provided both barium study and cholangiography are performed. The clinical presentation and diagnosis are discussed.", "contents": "Choledochocele. A case report. A case of a young man with a choledochocele is presented. The entity is rare and symptoms are usually nonspecific. Pre-operative diagnosis is often not made but is usually possible provided both barium study and cholangiography are performed. The clinical presentation and diagnosis are discussed.", "PMID": 432749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1269", "title": "Isolation of UV-sensitive clones from a haploid frog cell line.", "content": "An isolation procedure has been developed which yielded five clones of haploid frog cells which are sensitive to ultraviolet light. This procedure employed a conventional mutagenesis, followed by time for phenotypic expression and then an enrichment for UV-sensitive mutants. The enrichment relies upon the uptake of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) by repairing cells following UV-induced damage, rendering repair-proficient cells differentially sensitive to photolysis by black light. The photolysis is potentiated by use of the bisbenzimidazole dye Hoechst 33258. The enriched population was screened for radiation-sensitive isolates resulting in 5 sensitives from 96 tested. No mutants were obtained from 300 isolates tested from a population which had not undergone enrichment.", "contents": "Isolation of UV-sensitive clones from a haploid frog cell line. An isolation procedure has been developed which yielded five clones of haploid frog cells which are sensitive to ultraviolet light. This procedure employed a conventional mutagenesis, followed by time for phenotypic expression and then an enrichment for UV-sensitive mutants. The enrichment relies upon the uptake of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) by repairing cells following UV-induced damage, rendering repair-proficient cells differentially sensitive to photolysis by black light. The photolysis is potentiated by use of the bisbenzimidazole dye Hoechst 33258. The enriched population was screened for radiation-sensitive isolates resulting in 5 sensitives from 96 tested. No mutants were obtained from 300 isolates tested from a population which had not undergone enrichment.", "PMID": 432753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1270", "title": "Cloning of Drosophila cells: effect of vitamins and yeast extract components.", "content": "Yeast extract, a component of Drosophila cell culture media, is shown to contain substances of high, intermediate, and low molecular weight, that are, respectively, essential, inhibitory, and stimulatory for colony formation in semisolid agar medium. Furthermore, it is shown that high concentrations of pyridoxal greatly increase the cloning efficiency of Drosophilia cells. A cloning method with line Kc is described which routinely gives cloning efficiencies in excess of 20%.", "contents": "Cloning of Drosophila cells: effect of vitamins and yeast extract components. Yeast extract, a component of Drosophila cell culture media, is shown to contain substances of high, intermediate, and low molecular weight, that are, respectively, essential, inhibitory, and stimulatory for colony formation in semisolid agar medium. Furthermore, it is shown that high concentrations of pyridoxal greatly increase the cloning efficiency of Drosophilia cells. A cloning method with line Kc is described which routinely gives cloning efficiencies in excess of 20%.", "PMID": 432754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1271", "title": "TAM selection of Drosophila somatic cell hybrids.", "content": "The selection of MDR3, an adenine-salvage-deficient variant of the Kc line, is described. It is resistant to methylpurine and to diaminopurine and is TAM (thymidine, adenine, methotrexate) sensitive. Two wild-type (TAM-resistant) cell lines, Schneider's line 3 (S3) and D\u00fcbendorfer's line 1 (D1), due to their different nutritional requirements, are unable to proliferate in medium ZH1% used for line MDR3. This allowed the selection of hybrids between MDR3 and either D1 or S3 in TAM cloning medium after treatment with polyethyleneglycol. Hybrids were identified by the isoenzyme pattern of NADP-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase.", "contents": "TAM selection of Drosophila somatic cell hybrids. The selection of MDR3, an adenine-salvage-deficient variant of the Kc line, is described. It is resistant to methylpurine and to diaminopurine and is TAM (thymidine, adenine, methotrexate) sensitive. Two wild-type (TAM-resistant) cell lines, Schneider's line 3 (S3) and D\u00fcbendorfer's line 1 (D1), due to their different nutritional requirements, are unable to proliferate in medium ZH1% used for line MDR3. This allowed the selection of hybrids between MDR3 and either D1 or S3 in TAM cloning medium after treatment with polyethyleneglycol. Hybrids were identified by the isoenzyme pattern of NADP-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase.", "PMID": 432755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1272", "title": "Identification of a mouse gene required for binding of Rauscher MuLV envelope gp70.", "content": "Mouse chromosome segregating somatic cell hybrids were established between a mouse thymic leukemai cell line (GRSL) and Chinese hamster E36 cells. The GRSL cells specifically bound purified Rauscher leukemia virus gp70 while the E36 cells exhibited no binding. The hybrids selectively bound Ruascher gp70 depending on the presence of a mouse cellular gene for the ecotropic murine luekemia gp70 receptor. A syntenic relationship was observed between the DIP-3 chromosome marker (on chromosome 5) and the gp70 receptor in primary clones and subclones of these hybrids; this was confirmed by chromosome analysis. The involvement of H-2 in the binding of Rauscher MuLV gp70 could be ruled out, because discordancies of the receptor presence and H-2 absence as well as of the receptor absence and H-2 presence type could be observed. Our results indicate that the Rec-1 (replication ecotropic MuLV) gene of Gazdar et al. (4) may well be the receptor gene for the ecotropic murine leukemia virus.", "contents": "Identification of a mouse gene required for binding of Rauscher MuLV envelope gp70. Mouse chromosome segregating somatic cell hybrids were established between a mouse thymic leukemai cell line (GRSL) and Chinese hamster E36 cells. The GRSL cells specifically bound purified Rauscher leukemia virus gp70 while the E36 cells exhibited no binding. The hybrids selectively bound Ruascher gp70 depending on the presence of a mouse cellular gene for the ecotropic murine luekemia gp70 receptor. A syntenic relationship was observed between the DIP-3 chromosome marker (on chromosome 5) and the gp70 receptor in primary clones and subclones of these hybrids; this was confirmed by chromosome analysis. The involvement of H-2 in the binding of Rauscher MuLV gp70 could be ruled out, because discordancies of the receptor presence and H-2 absence as well as of the receptor absence and H-2 presence type could be observed. Our results indicate that the Rec-1 (replication ecotropic MuLV) gene of Gazdar et al. (4) may well be the receptor gene for the ecotropic murine leukemia virus.", "PMID": 432756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1273", "title": "Studies on 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl cytosine-resistant mutants of Chinese hamster fibroblasts: III. Joint resistance to arabinofuranosyl cytosine and to excess thymidine--a semidominant manifestation of deoxycytidine triphosphate pool expansion.", "content": "Variants isolated from mutagenized Chinese hamster fibroblasts by a single cycle of exposure to ara-C distributed into two classes: (1) deoxycytidine (dC) kinase deficient clones with a high level of resistance, this phenotype was recessive in hybrids; and (2) clones exhibiting joint resistance to thymidine (dT) and to \"low\" ara-C concentration, this phenotype was accounted for by an increased dCTP pool. The incorporation of exogenous dC into macromolecules was markedly altered in these variants. In hybrids, the phenotype of joint resistance to dT and ara-C was semidominant. Through a second selection step, variants cumulating recessive high resistance to ara-C and semidominant dT resistance were recovered. The identification of these two classes of ara-C-resistant variants suggests an interpretation of the known phenotypes of ara-C resistance as manifestations of chromosomal gene mutations. Dominant resistance mutations might contribute to the survival of cancer cells during prolonged ara-C chemotherapy.", "contents": "Studies on 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl cytosine-resistant mutants of Chinese hamster fibroblasts: III. Joint resistance to arabinofuranosyl cytosine and to excess thymidine--a semidominant manifestation of deoxycytidine triphosphate pool expansion. Variants isolated from mutagenized Chinese hamster fibroblasts by a single cycle of exposure to ara-C distributed into two classes: (1) deoxycytidine (dC) kinase deficient clones with a high level of resistance, this phenotype was recessive in hybrids; and (2) clones exhibiting joint resistance to thymidine (dT) and to \"low\" ara-C concentration, this phenotype was accounted for by an increased dCTP pool. The incorporation of exogenous dC into macromolecules was markedly altered in these variants. In hybrids, the phenotype of joint resistance to dT and ara-C was semidominant. Through a second selection step, variants cumulating recessive high resistance to ara-C and semidominant dT resistance were recovered. The identification of these two classes of ara-C-resistant variants suggests an interpretation of the known phenotypes of ara-C resistance as manifestations of chromosomal gene mutations. Dominant resistance mutations might contribute to the survival of cancer cells during prolonged ara-C chemotherapy.", "PMID": 432758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1274", "title": "Isolation of hydroxyurea-resistant CHO cells with altered levels of ribonucleotide reductase.", "content": "A Chinese hamster ovary cell line selected for resistance to hydroxyurea was serially cultivated in the absence of a selective agent, and cells with decreased resistance to the cytotoxic effects of hydroxyurea gradually accumulated in the population. Three stable subclones with differing drug sensitivities were isolated from this mixed population and were found to contain intracellular levels of drug-sensitive ribonucleotide reductase which correlated with the degree of cellular resistance to hydroxyurea. This new class of hydroxyurea resistance was expressed in a codominant fashion in cell-cell hybridization studies. Also, the enhanced enzyme activity in the drug-resistant cells was observed only during the cell cycle S phase of synchronized cells. The properties of these drug-resistant lines indicate that they will be useful for genetic and biochemical studies.", "contents": "Isolation of hydroxyurea-resistant CHO cells with altered levels of ribonucleotide reductase. A Chinese hamster ovary cell line selected for resistance to hydroxyurea was serially cultivated in the absence of a selective agent, and cells with decreased resistance to the cytotoxic effects of hydroxyurea gradually accumulated in the population. Three stable subclones with differing drug sensitivities were isolated from this mixed population and were found to contain intracellular levels of drug-sensitive ribonucleotide reductase which correlated with the degree of cellular resistance to hydroxyurea. This new class of hydroxyurea resistance was expressed in a codominant fashion in cell-cell hybridization studies. Also, the enhanced enzyme activity in the drug-resistant cells was observed only during the cell cycle S phase of synchronized cells. The properties of these drug-resistant lines indicate that they will be useful for genetic and biochemical studies.", "PMID": 432759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1275", "title": "A ts mutant isolated from CHL cells: inhibition of DNA replication at nonpermissive temperature.", "content": "A mutant Chinese hamster cell clone has been isolated from an S phase culture. This clone, ts154, could not replicate DNA at nonpermissive temperature (39 degrees C), although it synthesized DNA normally at permissive temperature (33 degrees C). After transfer to 39 degrees, ts154 cells replicated DNA semiconservatively through precisely two complete rounds and divided twice before they ceased DNA synthesis and further growth. The mutation in ts154 affects DNA replication specifically, as its rates of cellular transcription, its ability to support growth of vesicular stomatitis virus, and its ribo- and deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pools were normal at 39 degrees. Cultures of ts154 resumed DNA replication within 6h when shifted from 39 degrees to 33 degrees, even after 78 h at the nonpermissive temperature. Upon return to 33 degrees, mutant cells achieved a normal steady-state rate of DNA synthesis by 10 h, suggesting that they had come to rest within G1 phase at 39 degrees. Resumption of DNA synthesis and growth after a shift-down to 33 degrees were sensitive to cycloheximide in ts154, and thus likely required synthesis of new protein.", "contents": "A ts mutant isolated from CHL cells: inhibition of DNA replication at nonpermissive temperature. A mutant Chinese hamster cell clone has been isolated from an S phase culture. This clone, ts154, could not replicate DNA at nonpermissive temperature (39 degrees C), although it synthesized DNA normally at permissive temperature (33 degrees C). After transfer to 39 degrees, ts154 cells replicated DNA semiconservatively through precisely two complete rounds and divided twice before they ceased DNA synthesis and further growth. The mutation in ts154 affects DNA replication specifically, as its rates of cellular transcription, its ability to support growth of vesicular stomatitis virus, and its ribo- and deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pools were normal at 39 degrees. Cultures of ts154 resumed DNA replication within 6h when shifted from 39 degrees to 33 degrees, even after 78 h at the nonpermissive temperature. Upon return to 33 degrees, mutant cells achieved a normal steady-state rate of DNA synthesis by 10 h, suggesting that they had come to rest within G1 phase at 39 degrees. Resumption of DNA synthesis and growth after a shift-down to 33 degrees were sensitive to cycloheximide in ts154, and thus likely required synthesis of new protein.", "PMID": 432760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1276", "title": "Repair of postirradiation rectovaginal fistula and stricture.", "content": "Postirradiation rectovaginal fistulas are notoriously difficult to repair, as are the strictures that are usually associated with them. Previous attempts have involved resection and low anastomosis by various techniques. Patients considered not suitable for resection have been treated by permanent fecal diversion. A technique of repair not previously reported has been described. It relies on the proximal part of the colon as a vascular pedicle graft, used as a patch to close the rectal defect and to provide circumference to relieve any associated stricture. Five patients are reported in whom complicated fistulas and strictures have been corrected with restoration of normal rectal function.", "contents": "Repair of postirradiation rectovaginal fistula and stricture. Postirradiation rectovaginal fistulas are notoriously difficult to repair, as are the strictures that are usually associated with them. Previous attempts have involved resection and low anastomosis by various techniques. Patients considered not suitable for resection have been treated by permanent fecal diversion. A technique of repair not previously reported has been described. It relies on the proximal part of the colon as a vascular pedicle graft, used as a patch to close the rectal defect and to provide circumference to relieve any associated stricture. Five patients are reported in whom complicated fistulas and strictures have been corrected with restoration of normal rectal function.", "PMID": 432761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1277", "title": "Nonoperative management of intrahepatic hemorrhage and hematoma following blunt trauma.", "content": "Four patients with blunt abdominal trauma did not have surgical treatment for intrahepatic hemorrhage and hematoma. Two patients were diagnosed 24 hours after injury as having significant active hemorrhage, although their clinical status was stable. They were successfully treated by superselective transcatheter occlusion of the hepatic artery and they recovered without incident. Two patients were diagnosed one week after injury as having quiescent intrahepatic hematoma and they too recovered without complication. Although more patients will have to be evaluated, it is our belief that nonoperative management of selected patients with an intrahepatic hematoma is reasonable and safe. Patients should be observed periodically with radioisotope scans, ultrasound or computerized tomography until the hematoma resolves.", "contents": "Nonoperative management of intrahepatic hemorrhage and hematoma following blunt trauma. Four patients with blunt abdominal trauma did not have surgical treatment for intrahepatic hemorrhage and hematoma. Two patients were diagnosed 24 hours after injury as having significant active hemorrhage, although their clinical status was stable. They were successfully treated by superselective transcatheter occlusion of the hepatic artery and they recovered without incident. Two patients were diagnosed one week after injury as having quiescent intrahepatic hematoma and they too recovered without complication. Although more patients will have to be evaluated, it is our belief that nonoperative management of selected patients with an intrahepatic hematoma is reasonable and safe. Patients should be observed periodically with radioisotope scans, ultrasound or computerized tomography until the hematoma resolves.", "PMID": 432762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1278", "title": "Preoperative chemotherapy in soft tissue sarcoma.", "content": "The preoperative use of chemotherapy in the management of soft tissue sarcoma is a recent concept in the multidisciplinary management of neoplasia related to the development of more effective drug combinations. The reason for chemotherapy preoperatively is to define the effectiveness of drug treatment, permitting a rational basis for long term adjuvant treatment. In addition, major surgical morbidity may be precluded if chemotherapy is effective, allowing lesser surgical procedures, such as limb-sparing local resection. Patient selection for this approach must be individualized and is based upon the major determinants of prognosis, including the stage of the tumor according to the TNM and G--grade--classification. Radiation therapy is an essential component of the multimodality approach to soft tissue sarcomas, and the interaction of all three therapeutic modalities must provide optimal tumor control and minimal morbidity.", "contents": "Preoperative chemotherapy in soft tissue sarcoma. The preoperative use of chemotherapy in the management of soft tissue sarcoma is a recent concept in the multidisciplinary management of neoplasia related to the development of more effective drug combinations. The reason for chemotherapy preoperatively is to define the effectiveness of drug treatment, permitting a rational basis for long term adjuvant treatment. In addition, major surgical morbidity may be precluded if chemotherapy is effective, allowing lesser surgical procedures, such as limb-sparing local resection. Patient selection for this approach must be individualized and is based upon the major determinants of prognosis, including the stage of the tumor according to the TNM and G--grade--classification. Radiation therapy is an essential component of the multimodality approach to soft tissue sarcomas, and the interaction of all three therapeutic modalities must provide optimal tumor control and minimal morbidity.", "PMID": 432763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1279", "title": "The problem of the cystic duct remnant.", "content": "Symptoms persisting after cholecystectomy for gallbladder disease are often attributed to a long residual cystic duct. Of 30 patients who underwent excision of their cystic duct remnant, 15 were found to have common duct stones which accounted for their symptoms, while an additional four patients had had previous episodes of jaundice which suggested passage of a common duct stone. Those patients with common duct disease in addition to the cystic duct remnant were completely relieved of their symptoms by operation while only eight of the patients without common duct stones obtained relief. A cystic duct remnant infrequently causes symptoms in the absence of pathologic conditions in the common duct.", "contents": "The problem of the cystic duct remnant. Symptoms persisting after cholecystectomy for gallbladder disease are often attributed to a long residual cystic duct. Of 30 patients who underwent excision of their cystic duct remnant, 15 were found to have common duct stones which accounted for their symptoms, while an additional four patients had had previous episodes of jaundice which suggested passage of a common duct stone. Those patients with common duct disease in addition to the cystic duct remnant were completely relieved of their symptoms by operation while only eight of the patients without common duct stones obtained relief. A cystic duct remnant infrequently causes symptoms in the absence of pathologic conditions in the common duct.", "PMID": 432764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1280", "title": "Undesirable effects of hemometakinesia induced by vascular reconstruction.", "content": "Hemometakinesia, the borrowing of blood by one part of the body for use by other parts or tissues, is a well regulated physiologic mechanism involving selective vasodilation and vasoconstriction. It has been shown, however, that diversion of blood flow following vascular reconstruction may impoverish tissues from which the blood flow is borrowed, causing ischemia in these vascular beds. Observations on 12 patients out of a group of 100 who had undergone vascular reconstruction of a limb deterioration. It is suggested that the type and site of the vascular disorder and the expected diminution of blood flow in other involved arterial circuits should be considered in selecting the most appropriate vascular surgical procedure. Searching for and recognizing the hemodynamic significance of a silent lesion in the carotid or gastrointestinal circuit or in a contralateral limb may avert a vascular crisis after the primary lesion has been successfully treated.", "contents": "Undesirable effects of hemometakinesia induced by vascular reconstruction. Hemometakinesia, the borrowing of blood by one part of the body for use by other parts or tissues, is a well regulated physiologic mechanism involving selective vasodilation and vasoconstriction. It has been shown, however, that diversion of blood flow following vascular reconstruction may impoverish tissues from which the blood flow is borrowed, causing ischemia in these vascular beds. Observations on 12 patients out of a group of 100 who had undergone vascular reconstruction of a limb deterioration. It is suggested that the type and site of the vascular disorder and the expected diminution of blood flow in other involved arterial circuits should be considered in selecting the most appropriate vascular surgical procedure. Searching for and recognizing the hemodynamic significance of a silent lesion in the carotid or gastrointestinal circuit or in a contralateral limb may avert a vascular crisis after the primary lesion has been successfully treated.", "PMID": 432765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1281", "title": "Secretion of insulin by the canine pancreas perfused ex vivo with fluorocarbon emulsion.", "content": "Canine gastroduodenopancreatic blocks were isolated and perfused ex vivo with oxygenated bloodless fluorocarbon emulsion. Pancreatic and gastric secretions were collected. Exocrine pancreatic secretion was stimulated with secretin infused intra-arterially. This study was undertaken to find out whether or not the pancreas, perfused with fluorocarbon emulsion, preserves its endocrine function. Immunoreactive insulin was determined in the perfusate samples obtained from a venous site in the perfusion circuit. Glucose concentration was also measured in the same samples. Insulin appeared in all experiments within the first ten minutes of persuion of the preparation with fluorocarbon. Insulin was present in all samples collected during 5.5 hours of perfusion. Results of this study suggest that endocrine function of the pancreas was preserved under the conditions of extracorporeal perfusion used.", "contents": "Secretion of insulin by the canine pancreas perfused ex vivo with fluorocarbon emulsion. Canine gastroduodenopancreatic blocks were isolated and perfused ex vivo with oxygenated bloodless fluorocarbon emulsion. Pancreatic and gastric secretions were collected. Exocrine pancreatic secretion was stimulated with secretin infused intra-arterially. This study was undertaken to find out whether or not the pancreas, perfused with fluorocarbon emulsion, preserves its endocrine function. Immunoreactive insulin was determined in the perfusate samples obtained from a venous site in the perfusion circuit. Glucose concentration was also measured in the same samples. Insulin appeared in all experiments within the first ten minutes of persuion of the preparation with fluorocarbon. Insulin was present in all samples collected during 5.5 hours of perfusion. Results of this study suggest that endocrine function of the pancreas was preserved under the conditions of extracorporeal perfusion used.", "PMID": 432766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1282", "title": "Use of the umbilical area for placement of a urinary stoma.", "content": "Children with myelodysplasia are best managed in medical centers by a team consisting of a urologist, an orthopedist, a neurosurgeon, a pediatrician, a social worker, an orthotic technician and physical therapists. A co-operative approach aids in the selection of a urinary diversion stoma site which will not interfere with the multiple orthopedic procedures these children must undergo. The urologic and orthopedic complications and benefits of 24 patients with umbilical stoma are compared with 24 patients with matched right lower quadrant stoma. The incidence of urologic complications is equal, while the orthopedic advantages manifest by the first group vastly outweigh the problems encountered in the second group. We advocate the use of a midline stoma site for urinary diversion in children with myelodysplasia.", "contents": "Use of the umbilical area for placement of a urinary stoma. Children with myelodysplasia are best managed in medical centers by a team consisting of a urologist, an orthopedist, a neurosurgeon, a pediatrician, a social worker, an orthotic technician and physical therapists. A co-operative approach aids in the selection of a urinary diversion stoma site which will not interfere with the multiple orthopedic procedures these children must undergo. The urologic and orthopedic complications and benefits of 24 patients with umbilical stoma are compared with 24 patients with matched right lower quadrant stoma. The incidence of urologic complications is equal, while the orthopedic advantages manifest by the first group vastly outweigh the problems encountered in the second group. We advocate the use of a midline stoma site for urinary diversion in children with myelodysplasia.", "PMID": 432767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1283", "title": "Location of the force of wound contraction.", "content": "Contractile fibroblasts were found on electron microscopy to be distributed throughout the substance of contracting pig and rat wounds. The force of wound contraction is probably caused by these cells contracting and pulling on each other and on the surrounding stroma. This evidence suggests that the pull theory of wound contraction is correct.", "contents": "Location of the force of wound contraction. Contractile fibroblasts were found on electron microscopy to be distributed throughout the substance of contracting pig and rat wounds. The force of wound contraction is probably caused by these cells contracting and pulling on each other and on the surrounding stroma. This evidence suggests that the pull theory of wound contraction is correct.", "PMID": 432768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1284", "title": "The symptoms of an amebic abscess of the liver simulating an acute surgical abdomen.", "content": "Amebic abscess of the liver has protean manifestations that often resemble causes of an acute surgical abdomen. Patients presenting at University of California, Los Angeles Hospital with acute abdominal injuries who underwent exploratory laparotomy and subsequently were found to have an amebic hepatic abscess were studied. There are various clinical symptoms of amebic hepatic abscess as well as problems of differentiating this pathologic entity from an acute surgical abdomen. Most patients with amebic hepatic abscess that mimics an acute abdomen present as acute cholecystitis or acute appendicitis. All patients recovered uneventfully once the diagnosis was made and appropriate therapy instituted. The salient features of the history, physical examination and laboratory data that can identify the amebic abscess were analyzed. The key to correct diagnosis is cognizance of the condition.", "contents": "The symptoms of an amebic abscess of the liver simulating an acute surgical abdomen. Amebic abscess of the liver has protean manifestations that often resemble causes of an acute surgical abdomen. Patients presenting at University of California, Los Angeles Hospital with acute abdominal injuries who underwent exploratory laparotomy and subsequently were found to have an amebic hepatic abscess were studied. There are various clinical symptoms of amebic hepatic abscess as well as problems of differentiating this pathologic entity from an acute surgical abdomen. Most patients with amebic hepatic abscess that mimics an acute abdomen present as acute cholecystitis or acute appendicitis. All patients recovered uneventfully once the diagnosis was made and appropriate therapy instituted. The salient features of the history, physical examination and laboratory data that can identify the amebic abscess were analyzed. The key to correct diagnosis is cognizance of the condition.", "PMID": 432769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1285", "title": "Experimental and clinical hepatorenal bypass as a means of revascularization of the right renal artery.", "content": "In patients with severe atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta or previous operations on the abdominal aorta, right renal revascularization may be difficult to achieve using aortorenal bypass. An experimental study was performed demonstrating the efficacy of hepatorenal bypass as an alternative operative procedure in this regard. Follow-up studies in these dogs demonstrated no adverse postoperative effects on hepatic function or morphology. In addition, two patients underwent hepatorenal bypass with a saphenous vein graft as surgical treatment for azotemia and hypertension caused by atherosclerotic right renal artery stenosis. Postoperatively, the blood pressure diminished and renal function improved in both patients. No evidence of persistent hepatic dysfunction was observed.", "contents": "Experimental and clinical hepatorenal bypass as a means of revascularization of the right renal artery. In patients with severe atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta or previous operations on the abdominal aorta, right renal revascularization may be difficult to achieve using aortorenal bypass. An experimental study was performed demonstrating the efficacy of hepatorenal bypass as an alternative operative procedure in this regard. Follow-up studies in these dogs demonstrated no adverse postoperative effects on hepatic function or morphology. In addition, two patients underwent hepatorenal bypass with a saphenous vein graft as surgical treatment for azotemia and hypertension caused by atherosclerotic right renal artery stenosis. Postoperatively, the blood pressure diminished and renal function improved in both patients. No evidence of persistent hepatic dysfunction was observed.", "PMID": 432770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1286", "title": "Side-effects of topical proteolytic enzyme treatment.", "content": "The results of this study indicate that short term treatment of wounds with topical enzymes appears to be safe and is accompanied by no clinically significant side-effects. Topical wound treatment with this enzyme did not interfere either with healing of experimental wounds or the activity of the antibiotics. Wounds subjected to this enzyme treatment exhibited a normal capacity to resist infection, even though this enzyme interferred with leukocyte phagocytosis in vitro. The potential benefits of this treatment in experimental wounds as an adjunct to antibiotics considerably outweigh its damaging effects. Its clinical use in patients must await the results of carefully controlled clinical trials in which the efficacy of this treatment is evaluated.", "contents": "Side-effects of topical proteolytic enzyme treatment. The results of this study indicate that short term treatment of wounds with topical enzymes appears to be safe and is accompanied by no clinically significant side-effects. Topical wound treatment with this enzyme did not interfere either with healing of experimental wounds or the activity of the antibiotics. Wounds subjected to this enzyme treatment exhibited a normal capacity to resist infection, even though this enzyme interferred with leukocyte phagocytosis in vitro. The potential benefits of this treatment in experimental wounds as an adjunct to antibiotics considerably outweigh its damaging effects. Its clinical use in patients must await the results of carefully controlled clinical trials in which the efficacy of this treatment is evaluated.", "PMID": 432771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1287", "title": "The hemodynamics of extra-anatomic bypass grafts.", "content": "The hemodynamics of extra-anatomic bypass were studied with the use of right to left iliac artery bypass grafts. An arteriovenous fistula on the recipient side was used to increase the flow through the graft. Flow measurements in this model under normotensive conditions showed proportionate increases in the suprarenal aortic blood flow and in the blood flow through the segment of donor artery proximal to the bypass graft anastomosis. Stealing of blood was not observed even when the graft flow was increased to approximately 11 times the normal flow in the donor artery. Arfonad was used for producing hypotension through vasodilatation. In the presence of peripheral vasodilatation, adequate blood flow can be expected after such bypass grafts at blood pressures as low as 80 millimeters of mercury and hypotension per se does not produce vascular steal.", "contents": "The hemodynamics of extra-anatomic bypass grafts. The hemodynamics of extra-anatomic bypass were studied with the use of right to left iliac artery bypass grafts. An arteriovenous fistula on the recipient side was used to increase the flow through the graft. Flow measurements in this model under normotensive conditions showed proportionate increases in the suprarenal aortic blood flow and in the blood flow through the segment of donor artery proximal to the bypass graft anastomosis. Stealing of blood was not observed even when the graft flow was increased to approximately 11 times the normal flow in the donor artery. Arfonad was used for producing hypotension through vasodilatation. In the presence of peripheral vasodilatation, adequate blood flow can be expected after such bypass grafts at blood pressures as low as 80 millimeters of mercury and hypotension per se does not produce vascular steal.", "PMID": 432772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1288", "title": "The effects of a minidose of heparin on peritonitis in rats.", "content": "Sprague-Dawley rats with peritonitis treated with either a subcutaneous or intraperitoneal minidose of heparin show a significant increase in survival time when compared with controls. In the treatment groups, adhesions and abscesses were less severe and localized to the area of gangrenous bowel. Heparin also significantly reduced the incidence of recovery of viable bacteria from the blood and peritoneal cavity. These findings may be related to a decreased deposition of fibrinogen within the abdomen or to the early mobilization of fibrin.", "contents": "The effects of a minidose of heparin on peritonitis in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats with peritonitis treated with either a subcutaneous or intraperitoneal minidose of heparin show a significant increase in survival time when compared with controls. In the treatment groups, adhesions and abscesses were less severe and localized to the area of gangrenous bowel. Heparin also significantly reduced the incidence of recovery of viable bacteria from the blood and peritoneal cavity. These findings may be related to a decreased deposition of fibrinogen within the abdomen or to the early mobilization of fibrin.", "PMID": 432773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1289", "title": "Local treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus.", "content": "Selected patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus can be treated by local excision with excellent results. The results of local and radical excision cannot be compared because patients must be selected for local excision. Lesions included in this study varied widely in regard to the site, size and degree of differentiation. The size of the lesion should not preclude the consideration of local excision, as a skin graft can be used to cover the area excised. Close observation and examination for short intervals of time to detect a recurrent lesion are mandatory, especially in the early postoperative period. Rectal digital examination can help in identifying metastases to the presacral lymph nodes, indicating the need for radical treatment.", "contents": "Local treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus. Selected patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus can be treated by local excision with excellent results. The results of local and radical excision cannot be compared because patients must be selected for local excision. Lesions included in this study varied widely in regard to the site, size and degree of differentiation. The size of the lesion should not preclude the consideration of local excision, as a skin graft can be used to cover the area excised. Close observation and examination for short intervals of time to detect a recurrent lesion are mandatory, especially in the early postoperative period. Rectal digital examination can help in identifying metastases to the presacral lymph nodes, indicating the need for radical treatment.", "PMID": 432774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1290", "title": "Treatment of microemboli of the upper extremity.", "content": "A patient with microembolism of the left hand from an ulcerated lesion in the proximal part of the left subclavian artery was treated by a simple procedure for removing the embolic source from the arterial circulation. Through a supraclavicular approach, the subclavian artery was divided from the aorta distal to the lesion and anastomosed to the left common carotid artery. This technique was effective not only in restoring unobstructed distal circulation but also in avoiding the use of the more complicated thoracotomy.", "contents": "Treatment of microemboli of the upper extremity. A patient with microembolism of the left hand from an ulcerated lesion in the proximal part of the left subclavian artery was treated by a simple procedure for removing the embolic source from the arterial circulation. Through a supraclavicular approach, the subclavian artery was divided from the aorta distal to the lesion and anastomosed to the left common carotid artery. This technique was effective not only in restoring unobstructed distal circulation but also in avoiding the use of the more complicated thoracotomy.", "PMID": 432775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1291", "title": "Percutaneous cannulation of the internal jugular vein in infants and children.", "content": "A technique for percutaneous catheterization of the internal jugular vein in infants and children was used since January 1975 in 206 patients ranging in age from a few hours to 12 years old. The series included 31 premature infants weighing less than 2,500 grams and 107 babies weighing less than 4,000 grams. Five attempts at cannulation failed. Each catheterization procedure required an average of 1.8 needle insertions before the vein was entered. In 129 patients, the first attempt was successful. Sixteen complications related to the procedure occurred early in our experience, seven of which were life threatening. One death was directly ascribed to the actual insertion of the catheter and mediastinal extravasation of infusion material. Most of the early complications probably could have been injected through the catheter immediately after cannulation, in addition to aspirating the blood and lowering the infusion bottle. The 22 late complications were related to infection; one infant died because of catheter sepsis. To minimize septic complications, an arbitrary limit of seven days was set, after which the catheter was replaced. Cannulation of the internal jugular vein in infants and children should be regarded as a serious surgical procedure to be performed by a trained team and only when properly indicated.", "contents": "Percutaneous cannulation of the internal jugular vein in infants and children. A technique for percutaneous catheterization of the internal jugular vein in infants and children was used since January 1975 in 206 patients ranging in age from a few hours to 12 years old. The series included 31 premature infants weighing less than 2,500 grams and 107 babies weighing less than 4,000 grams. Five attempts at cannulation failed. Each catheterization procedure required an average of 1.8 needle insertions before the vein was entered. In 129 patients, the first attempt was successful. Sixteen complications related to the procedure occurred early in our experience, seven of which were life threatening. One death was directly ascribed to the actual insertion of the catheter and mediastinal extravasation of infusion material. Most of the early complications probably could have been injected through the catheter immediately after cannulation, in addition to aspirating the blood and lowering the infusion bottle. The 22 late complications were related to infection; one infant died because of catheter sepsis. To minimize septic complications, an arbitrary limit of seven days was set, after which the catheter was replaced. Cannulation of the internal jugular vein in infants and children should be regarded as a serious surgical procedure to be performed by a trained team and only when properly indicated.", "PMID": 432776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1292", "title": "In vivo use of human umbilical vessels and the ductus venosus arantii.", "content": "Clinical use of umbilical vessels in the neonate is commonplace. In the adult, surgical reopening of the umbilical vein is feasible in the majority of patients, providing direct access to the portal circulation. Umbilical vein catheterization allows for portal manometry in the intact, unanesthetized state. Prolonged catheterization has served to facilitate physiologic and pharmacologic studies hitherto unavailable. Selective splanchnic catheterization with hepatoportography permits roentgenographic studies, important in the evaluation of patients with hepatobiliary diseases. Clinically, the umbilical vein has been used in the study of portal hemodynamics, portal decompression and hemofiltration, portal arterialization and in evaluating hepatic trauma. This method of access to the portal circulation has provided a route for study of the effects of drugs, hormones and other biologic materials on the portal circulation and for administration of antibiotics and other chemotherapeutic agents into the portal system. The procedure of umbilical vein catheterization is simple and repeated catheterization is possible. The ductus venosus, on the other hand, is not clinically usable and pertinent information has been reviewed. The ex vivo use of neonatal umbilical veins as vascular conduits is not included in this review.", "contents": "In vivo use of human umbilical vessels and the ductus venosus arantii. Clinical use of umbilical vessels in the neonate is commonplace. In the adult, surgical reopening of the umbilical vein is feasible in the majority of patients, providing direct access to the portal circulation. Umbilical vein catheterization allows for portal manometry in the intact, unanesthetized state. Prolonged catheterization has served to facilitate physiologic and pharmacologic studies hitherto unavailable. Selective splanchnic catheterization with hepatoportography permits roentgenographic studies, important in the evaluation of patients with hepatobiliary diseases. Clinically, the umbilical vein has been used in the study of portal hemodynamics, portal decompression and hemofiltration, portal arterialization and in evaluating hepatic trauma. This method of access to the portal circulation has provided a route for study of the effects of drugs, hormones and other biologic materials on the portal circulation and for administration of antibiotics and other chemotherapeutic agents into the portal system. The procedure of umbilical vein catheterization is simple and repeated catheterization is possible. The ductus venosus, on the other hand, is not clinically usable and pertinent information has been reviewed. The ex vivo use of neonatal umbilical veins as vascular conduits is not included in this review.", "PMID": 432777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1293", "title": "Experimental and clinical postnatal craniofacial skeletal changes.", "content": "An understanding of normal and abnormal postnatal skeletal changes can aid in the prevention, early recognition and proper surgical treatment of craniofacial deformities. Research findings may have important implications and applications in relation not only to the basic problem of change of bone form but also to the clinical problems of craniofacial operations. Precise analogies, however, should not be made between animals and human beings. Change of the craniofacial skeleton, a three-dimensional mosaic of bones and cavities, is a result of the synchronous co-ordination of the differential activities at various sites. The dynamics of normal and abnormal postnatal growth and change of the craniofacial skeletal system are a fascinating, complex, incomplete chapter in the field of biology.", "contents": "Experimental and clinical postnatal craniofacial skeletal changes. An understanding of normal and abnormal postnatal skeletal changes can aid in the prevention, early recognition and proper surgical treatment of craniofacial deformities. Research findings may have important implications and applications in relation not only to the basic problem of change of bone form but also to the clinical problems of craniofacial operations. Precise analogies, however, should not be made between animals and human beings. Change of the craniofacial skeleton, a three-dimensional mosaic of bones and cavities, is a result of the synchronous co-ordination of the differential activities at various sites. The dynamics of normal and abnormal postnatal growth and change of the craniofacial skeletal system are a fascinating, complex, incomplete chapter in the field of biology.", "PMID": 432778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1294", "title": "Interposition mesocaval shunt for chronic primary occlusion of the hepatic veins.", "content": "Five patients with primitive chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome were treated by Dacron interposed mesocaval shunts for medically uncontrollable ascites. In two instances, hepatomegaly and ascites disappeared for four and four and one-half years. In one patient with severe stenosis of the inferior vena cava, moderate ascites required tapping once a month one year later, despite proved prosthesis patency. In two patients, death occurred ten and 30 days after shunting due to thrombosis of the graft. Inferior vena cava stenosis appears to be the major factor for decision of opportunity and type of portacaval shunt. From our material, we can describe three types of stenosis: type I, due to caudate lobe hypertrophy, and type II, due to right lobe hypertrophy, are suitable for side-by-side portacaval or mesocaval shunts. Type III, regular and extended narrowing of inferior vena cava, observed in long term evolutive forms, is presumably due to fibrosis and is not a good indication for conventional infrahepatic shunting procedures. Since this study was completed, another patient had a side-to-side portacaval anastomosis for chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome without caval stenosis. The patient has been observed for seven months, and ascites did not reappear. This underlines the importance of a complete radiologic and hemodynamic preoperative study of inferior vena cava outflow impairment.", "contents": "Interposition mesocaval shunt for chronic primary occlusion of the hepatic veins. Five patients with primitive chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome were treated by Dacron interposed mesocaval shunts for medically uncontrollable ascites. In two instances, hepatomegaly and ascites disappeared for four and four and one-half years. In one patient with severe stenosis of the inferior vena cava, moderate ascites required tapping once a month one year later, despite proved prosthesis patency. In two patients, death occurred ten and 30 days after shunting due to thrombosis of the graft. Inferior vena cava stenosis appears to be the major factor for decision of opportunity and type of portacaval shunt. From our material, we can describe three types of stenosis: type I, due to caudate lobe hypertrophy, and type II, due to right lobe hypertrophy, are suitable for side-by-side portacaval or mesocaval shunts. Type III, regular and extended narrowing of inferior vena cava, observed in long term evolutive forms, is presumably due to fibrosis and is not a good indication for conventional infrahepatic shunting procedures. Since this study was completed, another patient had a side-to-side portacaval anastomosis for chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome without caval stenosis. The patient has been observed for seven months, and ascites did not reappear. This underlines the importance of a complete radiologic and hemodynamic preoperative study of inferior vena cava outflow impairment.", "PMID": 432780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1295", "title": "The treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts by external drainage.", "content": "Twenty-two patients were treated for 25 occurrences of pancreatic pseudocysts. The male to female ratio was 3:1, and the average age was 39 years. Alcoholism was the most common cause of the preceding episode of pancreatitis. The pseudocyst rarely developed from end-stage chronic pancreatitis. Our preferred treatment for the majority of pancreatic pseudocysts is external sump drainage, if there is no obstruction of the distal part of the pancreatic duct. This form of treatment was followed by a 100 per cent survival rate, and neither a pancreaticocutaneous fistula nor a pancreatic abscess occurred. The two instances of a recurrence were due to our treatment with a Penrose drain alone, and this practice is not recommended. Obstruction of the distal part of the pancreatic duct negates external sump drainage, and in such instances, a Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy should be the treatment of choice and not transgastric cystogastrostomy, which does not offer dependent drainage. The treatment of a pancreatic pseudocyst should not be equated with that of chronic fibrotic pancreatitis, as the basic pathologic clinical features and response to surgical treatment are quite different.", "contents": "The treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts by external drainage. Twenty-two patients were treated for 25 occurrences of pancreatic pseudocysts. The male to female ratio was 3:1, and the average age was 39 years. Alcoholism was the most common cause of the preceding episode of pancreatitis. The pseudocyst rarely developed from end-stage chronic pancreatitis. Our preferred treatment for the majority of pancreatic pseudocysts is external sump drainage, if there is no obstruction of the distal part of the pancreatic duct. This form of treatment was followed by a 100 per cent survival rate, and neither a pancreaticocutaneous fistula nor a pancreatic abscess occurred. The two instances of a recurrence were due to our treatment with a Penrose drain alone, and this practice is not recommended. Obstruction of the distal part of the pancreatic duct negates external sump drainage, and in such instances, a Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy should be the treatment of choice and not transgastric cystogastrostomy, which does not offer dependent drainage. The treatment of a pancreatic pseudocyst should not be equated with that of chronic fibrotic pancreatitis, as the basic pathologic clinical features and response to surgical treatment are quite different.", "PMID": 432782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1296", "title": "Plasma catecholamine levels and pulmonary dysfunction in sepsis.", "content": "In a retrospective analysis of 18 patients with sepsis and adult respiratory distress syndrome, we found that high plasma epinephrine and noradrenalin levels were associated with severe defects in oxygenation that accompany this disease. The result of previous experimental work support the concept that high plasma catecholamine levels augment already existing defects in the ventilation to perfusion ratio and increases the measured intrapulmonary shunt fraction. The results of this study do not, however, delineate whether or not the relationship between high circulating plasma catecholamine levels and severe adult respiratory distress syndrome is causal or simply a measurement of two indexes which reflect the severity of the underlying disease process.", "contents": "Plasma catecholamine levels and pulmonary dysfunction in sepsis. In a retrospective analysis of 18 patients with sepsis and adult respiratory distress syndrome, we found that high plasma epinephrine and noradrenalin levels were associated with severe defects in oxygenation that accompany this disease. The result of previous experimental work support the concept that high plasma catecholamine levels augment already existing defects in the ventilation to perfusion ratio and increases the measured intrapulmonary shunt fraction. The results of this study do not, however, delineate whether or not the relationship between high circulating plasma catecholamine levels and severe adult respiratory distress syndrome is causal or simply a measurement of two indexes which reflect the severity of the underlying disease process.", "PMID": 432784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1297", "title": "Carotid endarterectomy in a community hospital.", "content": "One hundred consecutive patients underwent carotid endarterectomy in a small community hospital in North Dakota during a period between 1969 through 1976. All operative procedures were performed by the same surgeon using the Javid shunt. A 1 per cent operative mortality and permanent morbidity resulted. These findings are comparable with those reported from large medical centers having extensive experience in carotid endarterectomy. It is concluded that patients with carotid artery disease can be safely and effectively treated in small medical centers by well trained experienced vascular surgeons.", "contents": "Carotid endarterectomy in a community hospital. One hundred consecutive patients underwent carotid endarterectomy in a small community hospital in North Dakota during a period between 1969 through 1976. All operative procedures were performed by the same surgeon using the Javid shunt. A 1 per cent operative mortality and permanent morbidity resulted. These findings are comparable with those reported from large medical centers having extensive experience in carotid endarterectomy. It is concluded that patients with carotid artery disease can be safely and effectively treated in small medical centers by well trained experienced vascular surgeons.", "PMID": 432785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1298", "title": "Changes in intrarenal blood flow during sepsis.", "content": "The intrarenal hemodynamics of nine dogs were studied using 15 micron diameter plastic radioactive microspheres labeled with either 85Sr or 141Ce injected before and with the alternative isotope injected 30 minutes after the induction of sepsis. Total renal microsphere trapping increased by 30.6 per cent, p less than 0.01, after the induction of sepsis. The glomerular filtration rate was unchanged. Microsphere trapping in the outer and inner cortex increased by 36.9 per cent, p less than 0.005, and by 20.3 per cent, p less than 0.05, respectively, reflecting increased renal blood flow. Fractional renal microsphere distribution in the outer cortex increased from 70.0 to 73.4 per cent, p less than 0.01, following the induction of sepsis. These data confirm that sepsis results in renal vasodilatation. In addition, a shift in intrarenal blood flow to the outer cortex was demonstrated. Since the outer cortex is perfused with blood which first passes through the inner cortex, it can be hypothesized that renal blood flow in septic states may be passing through dilated glomerular vessels unable to trap microspheres in the inner cortex or passing through precapillary open arteriovenous shunts, or both, thereby bypassing inner cortical functioning glomeruli. This may partly explain the decreased renal function associated with increased renal blood flow in septic states.", "contents": "Changes in intrarenal blood flow during sepsis. The intrarenal hemodynamics of nine dogs were studied using 15 micron diameter plastic radioactive microspheres labeled with either 85Sr or 141Ce injected before and with the alternative isotope injected 30 minutes after the induction of sepsis. Total renal microsphere trapping increased by 30.6 per cent, p less than 0.01, after the induction of sepsis. The glomerular filtration rate was unchanged. Microsphere trapping in the outer and inner cortex increased by 36.9 per cent, p less than 0.005, and by 20.3 per cent, p less than 0.05, respectively, reflecting increased renal blood flow. Fractional renal microsphere distribution in the outer cortex increased from 70.0 to 73.4 per cent, p less than 0.01, following the induction of sepsis. These data confirm that sepsis results in renal vasodilatation. In addition, a shift in intrarenal blood flow to the outer cortex was demonstrated. Since the outer cortex is perfused with blood which first passes through the inner cortex, it can be hypothesized that renal blood flow in septic states may be passing through dilated glomerular vessels unable to trap microspheres in the inner cortex or passing through precapillary open arteriovenous shunts, or both, thereby bypassing inner cortical functioning glomeruli. This may partly explain the decreased renal function associated with increased renal blood flow in septic states.", "PMID": 432786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1299", "title": "Analysis of forty-five patients with pseudocysts of the pancreas treated surgically.", "content": "The analysis of 45 patients with pancreatic pseudocysts treated surgically suggests that a significant proportion of the pancreatic pseudocysts detectable by physical examination, upper gastrointestinal tract x-ray series and sonography undergo major complications which, if neglected, may require an emergency or semiemergency type operation which, for obvious reasons, carries a higher operative mortality than when the same operation is performed electively. Therefore, pancreatic pseudocysts which are palpable and reontgenographically distort the anatomy of the upper part of the abdomen should be operated upon electively but promptly. Internal drainage by a cystogastric stoma or cystojejunal stoma, the latter being most favored in this series, apppears to be the best choice. Realistically, expectations are satisfactory results in 85 per cent of the patients, a recurrence rate of about 7 per cent and unsatisfactory results in about 12 per cent. Recurrent cysts are, in most instances amenable to a second surgical procedure.", "contents": "Analysis of forty-five patients with pseudocysts of the pancreas treated surgically. The analysis of 45 patients with pancreatic pseudocysts treated surgically suggests that a significant proportion of the pancreatic pseudocysts detectable by physical examination, upper gastrointestinal tract x-ray series and sonography undergo major complications which, if neglected, may require an emergency or semiemergency type operation which, for obvious reasons, carries a higher operative mortality than when the same operation is performed electively. Therefore, pancreatic pseudocysts which are palpable and reontgenographically distort the anatomy of the upper part of the abdomen should be operated upon electively but promptly. Internal drainage by a cystogastric stoma or cystojejunal stoma, the latter being most favored in this series, apppears to be the best choice. Realistically, expectations are satisfactory results in 85 per cent of the patients, a recurrence rate of about 7 per cent and unsatisfactory results in about 12 per cent. Recurrent cysts are, in most instances amenable to a second surgical procedure.", "PMID": 432787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1300", "title": "Evaluation of a new method for treating segmental renal disease.", "content": "Experimental segmental renal artery embolization was performed to evaluate the feasibility of therapeutic segmental renal embolization. In group 1, a two kidney dog model, segmental embolization of the right kidney was performed in ten dogs using Gelfoam, Silastic elastomer and barium sulfate. In group 2, a one kidney dog model, segmental embolization of left kidney was performed using Gelfoam and Silastic elastomer. In the remaining three dogs of group 2, embolization was not done for control. Sequential blood pressure measurements, plasma renin activities and renal arteriograms were obtained. Three dogs in group 2 died following unintentional complete renal embolization. Seventeen of the 18 dogs of the entire study remained normotensive after embolization. One dog had persistent hypertension develop which was controlled by a second, total renal embolization. The results suggest that therapeutic segmental renal embolization is a feasible method for treating segmental renal disease.", "contents": "Evaluation of a new method for treating segmental renal disease. Experimental segmental renal artery embolization was performed to evaluate the feasibility of therapeutic segmental renal embolization. In group 1, a two kidney dog model, segmental embolization of the right kidney was performed in ten dogs using Gelfoam, Silastic elastomer and barium sulfate. In group 2, a one kidney dog model, segmental embolization of left kidney was performed using Gelfoam and Silastic elastomer. In the remaining three dogs of group 2, embolization was not done for control. Sequential blood pressure measurements, plasma renin activities and renal arteriograms were obtained. Three dogs in group 2 died following unintentional complete renal embolization. Seventeen of the 18 dogs of the entire study remained normotensive after embolization. One dog had persistent hypertension develop which was controlled by a second, total renal embolization. The results suggest that therapeutic segmental renal embolization is a feasible method for treating segmental renal disease.", "PMID": 432788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1301", "title": "Endoscopic management of choledocholithiasis and papillary stenosis.", "content": "Endoscopic papillotomy was performed in 50 of 53 patients, 31 females, with an age range of 29 to 87 years, a mean of 63.1. The indications for the procedure included retained or recurrent choledocholithiasis, primary choledocholithiasis and papillary stenosis, which were responsible for persistent or intermittent cholestasis. The procedure was successful in all but three patients in whom the primary diagnosis was papillary stenosis. The major complications were bleeding in three patients, pancreatitis in one patient and an infected pseudocyst in one patient. Surgical intervention was not required, and there were no deaths. Endoscopic papillotomy has proved to be safe, producing a permanent biliary enteric fistula, thus reducing the probability of formation of recurrent stones. It has been shown to reduce hospitalization and convalescence, permitting an earlier return to normal activity.", "contents": "Endoscopic management of choledocholithiasis and papillary stenosis. Endoscopic papillotomy was performed in 50 of 53 patients, 31 females, with an age range of 29 to 87 years, a mean of 63.1. The indications for the procedure included retained or recurrent choledocholithiasis, primary choledocholithiasis and papillary stenosis, which were responsible for persistent or intermittent cholestasis. The procedure was successful in all but three patients in whom the primary diagnosis was papillary stenosis. The major complications were bleeding in three patients, pancreatitis in one patient and an infected pseudocyst in one patient. Surgical intervention was not required, and there were no deaths. Endoscopic papillotomy has proved to be safe, producing a permanent biliary enteric fistula, thus reducing the probability of formation of recurrent stones. It has been shown to reduce hospitalization and convalescence, permitting an earlier return to normal activity.", "PMID": 432789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1302", "title": "A technique for preservation of nasal projection in midface advancement.", "content": "The execution of this procedure has proved to have lower morbidity than a complete cranio-facial separation. We have performed this technique upon eight patients when the opportunity to tailor this operation more precisely to the defect has proved most beneficial.", "contents": "A technique for preservation of nasal projection in midface advancement. The execution of this procedure has proved to have lower morbidity than a complete cranio-facial separation. We have performed this technique upon eight patients when the opportunity to tailor this operation more precisely to the defect has proved most beneficial.", "PMID": 432793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1303", "title": "Localization of the parathyroid glands by intraoperative methylene blue staining.", "content": "Exploration of the neck for primary hyperparathyroidism has increased in our institution, as evidenced by nine patients treated in the past one year, as compared with six in the previous three years. Our experience indicates that methylene blue staining has served as an important adjunct in the localization of abnormal parathyroid glands. No complications were noted intraoperatively or postoperatively as a result of its use. Operating time was measurably decreased. The results of this study support the routine use of methylene blue in both primary and secondary parathyroid exploration, and this is currently being done in our institution.", "contents": "Localization of the parathyroid glands by intraoperative methylene blue staining. Exploration of the neck for primary hyperparathyroidism has increased in our institution, as evidenced by nine patients treated in the past one year, as compared with six in the previous three years. Our experience indicates that methylene blue staining has served as an important adjunct in the localization of abnormal parathyroid glands. No complications were noted intraoperatively or postoperatively as a result of its use. Operating time was measurably decreased. The results of this study support the routine use of methylene blue in both primary and secondary parathyroid exploration, and this is currently being done in our institution.", "PMID": 432794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1304", "title": "Fat necrosis.", "content": "Fat necrosis has been found to be associated with many forms of pancreatitis, carcinoma of the pancreas and pancreatic trauma. The causative agents seem to be pancreatic lipase and colipase, which presumably escape from the pancreas during the development of the disease. The precise mechanism by which these factors attack the adipose tissue, leading to the formation of foci of fat necrosis, is not known. The pathologic finding of fat necrosis is not restricted to the peritoneal-retroperitoneal region, where a direct contact with these factors is the most likely cause. In other patients, fat necrosis involves peripheral tissues, notably in subcutaneous adipose tissue throughout the body, in joints of the hand and foot and in bone marrow. This is associated with additional complications dependent upon the sites involved and is manifested as skin lesions, polyarthritis and osteolytic defects in patients who sometime suffer from a primary pancreatic disease.", "contents": "Fat necrosis. Fat necrosis has been found to be associated with many forms of pancreatitis, carcinoma of the pancreas and pancreatic trauma. The causative agents seem to be pancreatic lipase and colipase, which presumably escape from the pancreas during the development of the disease. The precise mechanism by which these factors attack the adipose tissue, leading to the formation of foci of fat necrosis, is not known. The pathologic finding of fat necrosis is not restricted to the peritoneal-retroperitoneal region, where a direct contact with these factors is the most likely cause. In other patients, fat necrosis involves peripheral tissues, notably in subcutaneous adipose tissue throughout the body, in joints of the hand and foot and in bone marrow. This is associated with additional complications dependent upon the sites involved and is manifested as skin lesions, polyarthritis and osteolytic defects in patients who sometime suffer from a primary pancreatic disease.", "PMID": 432796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1305", "title": "Ruptured thoracic aorta: evolving radiological concepts.", "content": "The chest roentgenograms of 18 patients with ruptured aortas were studied and the radiographic features tabulated. Fifteen patients survived to undergo angiography, and 14 aortograms were available for review. Distortion of the normal aortic contour and blurring of the aortic outline occurred on the initial chest film in each of the 18 cases. Obliteration of the medial left upper lung field and displacement of the superior vena cava to the right were observed in 16 and 15 films, respectively. Increased mediastinal width was not the most common noted abnormality. The mean mediastinal width on 100 cm anteroposterior supine chest film was 8.8 cm. One patient exhibited a mediastinal width within the normal range. Other frequently occurring abnormalities included opacification of the clear space between the aorta and pulmonary artery, obliteration of the distal aortic shadow, and tracheal shift to the right. At aortography nine patients demonstrated both linear radiolucent defects across the aorta and pseudoaneurysm formations, three patients showed only pseudoaneurysms, and two exhibited only linear radiolucent defects.", "contents": "Ruptured thoracic aorta: evolving radiological concepts. The chest roentgenograms of 18 patients with ruptured aortas were studied and the radiographic features tabulated. Fifteen patients survived to undergo angiography, and 14 aortograms were available for review. Distortion of the normal aortic contour and blurring of the aortic outline occurred on the initial chest film in each of the 18 cases. Obliteration of the medial left upper lung field and displacement of the superior vena cava to the right were observed in 16 and 15 films, respectively. Increased mediastinal width was not the most common noted abnormality. The mean mediastinal width on 100 cm anteroposterior supine chest film was 8.8 cm. One patient exhibited a mediastinal width within the normal range. Other frequently occurring abnormalities included opacification of the clear space between the aorta and pulmonary artery, obliteration of the distal aortic shadow, and tracheal shift to the right. At aortography nine patients demonstrated both linear radiolucent defects across the aorta and pseudoaneurysm formations, three patients showed only pseudoaneurysms, and two exhibited only linear radiolucent defects.", "PMID": 432797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1306", "title": "Atherosclerotic aneurysms of the subclavian artery.", "content": "The case reports of three adult men, in whom four atherosclerotic aneurysms of otherwise normal subclavian arteries were detected in the absence of thoracic outlet syndrome or a history of trauma, are detailed. Two patients complained of supraclavicular discomfort--one having a history suggestive of peripheral arterial emboli and the other was asymptomatic. These aneurysms can be resected safely using a supraclavicular incision with resection of the medial clavicle. In cases requiring more proximal arterial control, median sternotomy is advisable. Our one patient with bilateral atherosclerotic aneurysms appears to be the first such reported case in the surgical literature.", "contents": "Atherosclerotic aneurysms of the subclavian artery. The case reports of three adult men, in whom four atherosclerotic aneurysms of otherwise normal subclavian arteries were detected in the absence of thoracic outlet syndrome or a history of trauma, are detailed. Two patients complained of supraclavicular discomfort--one having a history suggestive of peripheral arterial emboli and the other was asymptomatic. These aneurysms can be resected safely using a supraclavicular incision with resection of the medial clavicle. In cases requiring more proximal arterial control, median sternotomy is advisable. Our one patient with bilateral atherosclerotic aneurysms appears to be the first such reported case in the surgical literature.", "PMID": 432798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1307", "title": "Eosinophilic occlusive pulmonic panarteritis associated with long-term antibiotic therapy.", "content": "The administration of antibiotics through central catheters for short periods of time frequently is encountered clinically. This report is an in vivo experimental study of long-term bolus administration of antibiotics through a central catheter inserted in the external jugular vein. Approximately 30 calves, which weighed between 180 and 225 kg, had silicone-rubber catheters inserted for protracted periods of time. Various concentrations of either penicillin, cephalothin, or streptomycin were given intravenously in bolus doses. Minimal doses given for long periods of time or large doses given over short periods of time did not produce any pulmonary vascular lesions. Large doses of antibiotics administered for long experimental periods routinely produced a pulmonary vascular lesion in the medium-size and small-size pulmonary arterioles. The vasculitis consists of a diffuse eosinophilic infiltrate located perivascularly and throughout the intima and media. Associated with the vasculitis was a diffuse hyperplasia of the intima and media which frequently stenosed the vascular lumen. These studies suggest an association between large bolus dosages of antibiotics given over a prlonged period via a central catheter and a constrictive pulmonary arteriolar eosinophilic panvasculitis.", "contents": "Eosinophilic occlusive pulmonic panarteritis associated with long-term antibiotic therapy. The administration of antibiotics through central catheters for short periods of time frequently is encountered clinically. This report is an in vivo experimental study of long-term bolus administration of antibiotics through a central catheter inserted in the external jugular vein. Approximately 30 calves, which weighed between 180 and 225 kg, had silicone-rubber catheters inserted for protracted periods of time. Various concentrations of either penicillin, cephalothin, or streptomycin were given intravenously in bolus doses. Minimal doses given for long periods of time or large doses given over short periods of time did not produce any pulmonary vascular lesions. Large doses of antibiotics administered for long experimental periods routinely produced a pulmonary vascular lesion in the medium-size and small-size pulmonary arterioles. The vasculitis consists of a diffuse eosinophilic infiltrate located perivascularly and throughout the intima and media. Associated with the vasculitis was a diffuse hyperplasia of the intima and media which frequently stenosed the vascular lumen. These studies suggest an association between large bolus dosages of antibiotics given over a prlonged period via a central catheter and a constrictive pulmonary arteriolar eosinophilic panvasculitis.", "PMID": 432799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1308", "title": "Final inline filtration: a means of decreasing the incidence of infusion phlebitis.", "content": "Infusion phlebitis is the most common complication of intravenous therapy. Six methods of reducing the incidence of infusion phlebitis including inline final filtration, buffers, heparin, hydrocortisone, heparin-hydrocortisone combinations, and frequent set changes were tested in a two part randomized prospective double-blind study of 266 surgical patients. Patients who received filtered fluids had a significantly decreased incidence of infusion phlebitis as compared with that of controls (P = 0.0000001). Of the other methods tested, only the heparin-hydrocortisone combinations achieved any significant decrease in phlebitis (P less than 0.5). Therefore, inline filtration is a highly effective means of decreasing the incidence of infusion phlebitis and should be considered as a routine part of intravenous therapy.", "contents": "Final inline filtration: a means of decreasing the incidence of infusion phlebitis. Infusion phlebitis is the most common complication of intravenous therapy. Six methods of reducing the incidence of infusion phlebitis including inline final filtration, buffers, heparin, hydrocortisone, heparin-hydrocortisone combinations, and frequent set changes were tested in a two part randomized prospective double-blind study of 266 surgical patients. Patients who received filtered fluids had a significantly decreased incidence of infusion phlebitis as compared with that of controls (P = 0.0000001). Of the other methods tested, only the heparin-hydrocortisone combinations achieved any significant decrease in phlebitis (P less than 0.5). Therefore, inline filtration is a highly effective means of decreasing the incidence of infusion phlebitis and should be considered as a routine part of intravenous therapy.", "PMID": 432800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1309", "title": "Platelet aggregation inhibition in human umbilical vein grafts and negatively charged bovine heterografts.", "content": "Glutaraldehye-tanned human umbilical vein grafts (4 mm) and negatively charged bovine heterografts (4 mm) were placed as bypasses in the femoral arteries of 20 dogs randomized into 10 treated with aspirin and dipyridamole and 10 were not treated. Autogenous vein grafts were placed as controls. Platelet aggregation inhibition by aspirin and dipyridamole significantly improved the patency of human umbilical vein grafts from 10% to 60%. It had no effect on patencies of autogenous veins (100%) or on negatively charged bovine heterografts (0% patency). Inherent graft properties continue to play an important and sometimes overriding role in long-term graft patency in small vessel bypasses. Neointimal fibrous hyperplasia at both proximal and distal anastomoses again was shown to be intimately associated with late graft occlusions.", "contents": "Platelet aggregation inhibition in human umbilical vein grafts and negatively charged bovine heterografts. Glutaraldehye-tanned human umbilical vein grafts (4 mm) and negatively charged bovine heterografts (4 mm) were placed as bypasses in the femoral arteries of 20 dogs randomized into 10 treated with aspirin and dipyridamole and 10 were not treated. Autogenous vein grafts were placed as controls. Platelet aggregation inhibition by aspirin and dipyridamole significantly improved the patency of human umbilical vein grafts from 10% to 60%. It had no effect on patencies of autogenous veins (100%) or on negatively charged bovine heterografts (0% patency). Inherent graft properties continue to play an important and sometimes overriding role in long-term graft patency in small vessel bypasses. Neointimal fibrous hyperplasia at both proximal and distal anastomoses again was shown to be intimately associated with late graft occlusions.", "PMID": 432801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1310", "title": "Oxygen toxicity in normal and anoxic ventilated perfused canine lungs.", "content": "Oxygen toxicity was studied in 26 canine isolated, perfused lung lobes which included nine control lobes, 13 lungs ventilated with FIO2 1.0 for 4 hours, and four lobes ventilated with FIN2 1.0 for 1 hour prior to 4 hours of FIO2 1.0 to evaluate the postulated protective effect of anoxia. A significant increase in wet weight was seen in the O2 ventilated lungs which did not alter pulmonary capillary isogravimetric pressure (PCI), alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient, or pulmonary vascular resistance. In contrast, preliminary N2 ventilation resulted in a significant increase in PCI and greater weight gain while pulmonary vascular resistance was reduced. Pulmonary compliance was reduced minimally in all groups. Anoxic ventilation not only failed to protect the isolated canine lung from presumed increased capillary permeability of oxygen toxicity, but seemed to contribute to the formation of interstitial pulmonary edema.", "contents": "Oxygen toxicity in normal and anoxic ventilated perfused canine lungs. Oxygen toxicity was studied in 26 canine isolated, perfused lung lobes which included nine control lobes, 13 lungs ventilated with FIO2 1.0 for 4 hours, and four lobes ventilated with FIN2 1.0 for 1 hour prior to 4 hours of FIO2 1.0 to evaluate the postulated protective effect of anoxia. A significant increase in wet weight was seen in the O2 ventilated lungs which did not alter pulmonary capillary isogravimetric pressure (PCI), alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient, or pulmonary vascular resistance. In contrast, preliminary N2 ventilation resulted in a significant increase in PCI and greater weight gain while pulmonary vascular resistance was reduced. Pulmonary compliance was reduced minimally in all groups. Anoxic ventilation not only failed to protect the isolated canine lung from presumed increased capillary permeability of oxygen toxicity, but seemed to contribute to the formation of interstitial pulmonary edema.", "PMID": 432802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1311", "title": "The effects of the concentration and function of hemoglobin on the survival of rats after hemorrhage.", "content": "Hemodilutional techniques of resuscitation, which are becoming popular, add anemia to the acute increase in the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen that occurs in massively transfused patients when old liquid stored blood is used. A model simulating these conditions was established in rats, using blood stored in citrate for different durations (\"fresh\" for 1 day, P50 of 34.5 torr, and \"old\" for 14 to 20 days, P50 of 23.5 torr). Animals were exchange transfused of 90% of the original red cell mass with fresh or old blood at one of three different hematocrits, then hemorrhaged and treated with the same blood used for exchange. There was little difference in survival throughout the range of hematocrits when fresh blood was used (10 of 17, 11 of 16, and 10 of 16 rats). Survival was significantly less in recipients of old blood at low hematocrits (five of 21), but not at higher hematocrits (nine of 19, eight of 14). Ability to salvage the most vulnerable subgroup was tested in rats exchange transfused with old blood at low hematocrits, hemorrhaged, and treated with fresh or old blood, each at low or high hematocrits. Again survival was comparable with fresh blood at low or high hematocrits and old blood at high hematocrits (15 of 20, 19 of 21, 18 of 25) but was lower with old blood at low hematocrits (12 of 24). These results indicate that the oxygen-delivering capacity of blood can become a limiting factor in promoting survival after hemorrhage in otherwise normal animals when it is reduced below half of normal by a combination of anemia and impaired function of hemoglobin. Above that level, fresh blood was more efficacious than old blood in this model.", "contents": "The effects of the concentration and function of hemoglobin on the survival of rats after hemorrhage. Hemodilutional techniques of resuscitation, which are becoming popular, add anemia to the acute increase in the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen that occurs in massively transfused patients when old liquid stored blood is used. A model simulating these conditions was established in rats, using blood stored in citrate for different durations (\"fresh\" for 1 day, P50 of 34.5 torr, and \"old\" for 14 to 20 days, P50 of 23.5 torr). Animals were exchange transfused of 90% of the original red cell mass with fresh or old blood at one of three different hematocrits, then hemorrhaged and treated with the same blood used for exchange. There was little difference in survival throughout the range of hematocrits when fresh blood was used (10 of 17, 11 of 16, and 10 of 16 rats). Survival was significantly less in recipients of old blood at low hematocrits (five of 21), but not at higher hematocrits (nine of 19, eight of 14). Ability to salvage the most vulnerable subgroup was tested in rats exchange transfused with old blood at low hematocrits, hemorrhaged, and treated with fresh or old blood, each at low or high hematocrits. Again survival was comparable with fresh blood at low or high hematocrits and old blood at high hematocrits (15 of 20, 19 of 21, 18 of 25) but was lower with old blood at low hematocrits (12 of 24). These results indicate that the oxygen-delivering capacity of blood can become a limiting factor in promoting survival after hemorrhage in otherwise normal animals when it is reduced below half of normal by a combination of anemia and impaired function of hemoglobin. Above that level, fresh blood was more efficacious than old blood in this model.", "PMID": 432803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1312", "title": "The effect of vagotomy on human gastroesophageal sphincter pressure in the resting state and following increases in intra-abdominal pressure.", "content": "The effect of surgical isolation and extrinsic denervation of the distal 5 to 7 cm of the human esophagus on resting gastroesophageal sphincter pressure and its response to graded increases of external abdominal compression was determined in 89 patients with duodenal ulcer. Fasting serum gastrin concentration also was measured. No significant changes in resting sphincter pressure were obtained before and after vagotomy of various types: parietal cell vagotomy, selective gastric vagotomy plus drainage, and selective gastric vagotomy plus precise antrectomy. No correlation between resting sphincter pressure and fasting serum gastrin concentration was found in any of the groups studied. The increase in gastroesophageal sphincter pressure was similar to the increase in intragastric pressure after 10, 20, and 30 mm Hg of external abdominal compression and was unchanged after all types of vagotomies. These results suggest that (1) extrinsic innervation of the lower esophageal sphincter in humans does not regulate the resting tone of the sphincter; (2) extrinsic \"mechanical\" influence does not play any role in the maintenance of resting pressure; (3) the effect of increased abdominal pressure is a pure mechanical effect, is unchanged after vagotomy, and therefore is not regulated by external neural reflex.", "contents": "The effect of vagotomy on human gastroesophageal sphincter pressure in the resting state and following increases in intra-abdominal pressure. The effect of surgical isolation and extrinsic denervation of the distal 5 to 7 cm of the human esophagus on resting gastroesophageal sphincter pressure and its response to graded increases of external abdominal compression was determined in 89 patients with duodenal ulcer. Fasting serum gastrin concentration also was measured. No significant changes in resting sphincter pressure were obtained before and after vagotomy of various types: parietal cell vagotomy, selective gastric vagotomy plus drainage, and selective gastric vagotomy plus precise antrectomy. No correlation between resting sphincter pressure and fasting serum gastrin concentration was found in any of the groups studied. The increase in gastroesophageal sphincter pressure was similar to the increase in intragastric pressure after 10, 20, and 30 mm Hg of external abdominal compression and was unchanged after all types of vagotomies. These results suggest that (1) extrinsic innervation of the lower esophageal sphincter in humans does not regulate the resting tone of the sphincter; (2) extrinsic \"mechanical\" influence does not play any role in the maintenance of resting pressure; (3) the effect of increased abdominal pressure is a pure mechanical effect, is unchanged after vagotomy, and therefore is not regulated by external neural reflex.", "PMID": 432804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1313", "title": "Demonstration of pancreatic protease-antiprotease complexes in the peritoneal fluid of patients with acute pancreatitis.", "content": "During a 4 year period (1972 to 1975), 69 patients with acute severe pancreatitis, of whom 58 had hemorrhagic pancreatitis, were treated with peritoneal lavage at the intensive care ward of Malm\u00f6 General Hospital. The mortality rates in these four years were 27%, 28%, 17%, and 14%, respectively. Peritoneal exudates were analyzed from 10 patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis, four of whom died. About 65% of alpha 2-macroglobulin was in complexed form, as was 15% of alpha 1-antitrypsin. Immunochemical analyses of the alpha 1-antitrypsin revealed the presence of trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase complexed with alpha 1-antitrypsin. This means that the pancreatic proteases had been activated, as only active proteases are bound by plasma protease inhibitors.", "contents": "Demonstration of pancreatic protease-antiprotease complexes in the peritoneal fluid of patients with acute pancreatitis. During a 4 year period (1972 to 1975), 69 patients with acute severe pancreatitis, of whom 58 had hemorrhagic pancreatitis, were treated with peritoneal lavage at the intensive care ward of Malm\u00f6 General Hospital. The mortality rates in these four years were 27%, 28%, 17%, and 14%, respectively. Peritoneal exudates were analyzed from 10 patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis, four of whom died. About 65% of alpha 2-macroglobulin was in complexed form, as was 15% of alpha 1-antitrypsin. Immunochemical analyses of the alpha 1-antitrypsin revealed the presence of trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase complexed with alpha 1-antitrypsin. This means that the pancreatic proteases had been activated, as only active proteases are bound by plasma protease inhibitors.", "PMID": 432805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1314", "title": "Sodium cholate dissolution of retained biliary stones: mortality rate following intrahepatic infusion.", "content": "The reported complication rate from T-tube infusion of sodium cholate for dissolution of retained biliary stones is low. Among 84 patients reported in the English-language literature, and 10 additional cases of our own, there have been no deaths, an incidence of liver enzyme elevation in 7%, fever in 5%, cholangitis in 2%, and pancreatitis in 2%. Recently, we have infused 100mM sodium cholate at 30 cc/hr into patients through transhepatic biliary stents in an effort to rid the intrahepatic biliary tree of retained stones and biliary sludge. Appropriate precautions were taken to prevent increased biliary pressures by the insetion of a 30 cm manometer into the perfusion system. During four transhepatic infusions in three patients, all experienced nausea and vomiting, and two of the three patients developed diarrhea and abdominal pain. Liver enzymes became elevated during all four infusions, and two of the three patients became septic and died shortly after their infusions. Experimental work in animals suggests that intrahepatic sodium cholate infusion results in injury to the ductal epithelium and predisposes patients to bactermia and sepsis. Even though T-tube infusion of sodium cholate into the common bile duct is well tolerated, direct infusion into the intrahepatic biliary tree through a transhepatic tube is not and carries a high risk of sepsis and death.", "contents": "Sodium cholate dissolution of retained biliary stones: mortality rate following intrahepatic infusion. The reported complication rate from T-tube infusion of sodium cholate for dissolution of retained biliary stones is low. Among 84 patients reported in the English-language literature, and 10 additional cases of our own, there have been no deaths, an incidence of liver enzyme elevation in 7%, fever in 5%, cholangitis in 2%, and pancreatitis in 2%. Recently, we have infused 100mM sodium cholate at 30 cc/hr into patients through transhepatic biliary stents in an effort to rid the intrahepatic biliary tree of retained stones and biliary sludge. Appropriate precautions were taken to prevent increased biliary pressures by the insetion of a 30 cm manometer into the perfusion system. During four transhepatic infusions in three patients, all experienced nausea and vomiting, and two of the three patients developed diarrhea and abdominal pain. Liver enzymes became elevated during all four infusions, and two of the three patients became septic and died shortly after their infusions. Experimental work in animals suggests that intrahepatic sodium cholate infusion results in injury to the ductal epithelium and predisposes patients to bactermia and sepsis. Even though T-tube infusion of sodium cholate into the common bile duct is well tolerated, direct infusion into the intrahepatic biliary tree through a transhepatic tube is not and carries a high risk of sepsis and death.", "PMID": 432806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1315", "title": "Muscular, renal, and metabolic complications of acute arterial occlusions: myonephropathic-metabolic syndrome.", "content": "Acute arterial occlusions of the extremities may result, in approximately 7.5% of cases, in a severe and complex metabolic syndrome which often leads to loss of limb and life. The manifestations of this syndrome are divided into two stages: (1) the ischemic or devascularization phase, and (2) the revascularization phase. The ischemic phase includes severe clinical manifestations, of which the rigidity of the limb (\"rigor mortis\") is an outstanding sign, as are nephropathic-metabolic changes (oliguria, acidosis, myoglobinuria, azotemia, hyperkalemia). Their identification and correction at this phase may minimize their impact on the revascularization syndrome. The clinical and metabolic manifestations during the latter phase are more severe and may determine the outcome of the viability of the limb and the survival of the patient. Amputation rates are quite high (40% to 50%) and mortality rates range between 30% and 80%. The ischemic rhabdomyolysis appears to be the initiating event which leads to the biochemical and metabolic alterations that dominate the prognosis as to limb and life. The guiding principles of the management in these severe ischemic cases consist of early revascularization with emphasis on concurrent fasciotomy, alkalinization of the patient, reestablishment of acid-base balance, hemodialysis for renal shutdown, and often early amputation for better control of the metabolic omplications.", "contents": "Muscular, renal, and metabolic complications of acute arterial occlusions: myonephropathic-metabolic syndrome. Acute arterial occlusions of the extremities may result, in approximately 7.5% of cases, in a severe and complex metabolic syndrome which often leads to loss of limb and life. The manifestations of this syndrome are divided into two stages: (1) the ischemic or devascularization phase, and (2) the revascularization phase. The ischemic phase includes severe clinical manifestations, of which the rigidity of the limb (\"rigor mortis\") is an outstanding sign, as are nephropathic-metabolic changes (oliguria, acidosis, myoglobinuria, azotemia, hyperkalemia). Their identification and correction at this phase may minimize their impact on the revascularization syndrome. The clinical and metabolic manifestations during the latter phase are more severe and may determine the outcome of the viability of the limb and the survival of the patient. Amputation rates are quite high (40% to 50%) and mortality rates range between 30% and 80%. The ischemic rhabdomyolysis appears to be the initiating event which leads to the biochemical and metabolic alterations that dominate the prognosis as to limb and life. The guiding principles of the management in these severe ischemic cases consist of early revascularization with emphasis on concurrent fasciotomy, alkalinization of the patient, reestablishment of acid-base balance, hemodialysis for renal shutdown, and often early amputation for better control of the metabolic omplications.", "PMID": 432807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1316", "title": "Gardner's syndrome complicated by mesenteric desmoid tumors.", "content": "Mesenteric desmoid tumors present difficult management problems among patients with Gardner's syndrome. Appearance of the problem is associated with prior abdominal surgery and with pregnancy. In the authors' experience, radical surgery alone has failed to control the disease and they recommend that it should be avoided when possible. Bypass procedures, interstitial implantation of radioactive materials, and chemotherapy represent alternatives which require further evaluation.", "contents": "Gardner's syndrome complicated by mesenteric desmoid tumors. Mesenteric desmoid tumors present difficult management problems among patients with Gardner's syndrome. Appearance of the problem is associated with prior abdominal surgery and with pregnancy. In the authors' experience, radical surgery alone has failed to control the disease and they recommend that it should be avoided when possible. Bypass procedures, interstitial implantation of radioactive materials, and chemotherapy represent alternatives which require further evaluation.", "PMID": 432809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1317", "title": "Internal pancreatic fistula to the pericardium and pleura.", "content": "A report of a 38-year-old man with a 10 month course of illness characterized by recurrent pericardial and pleural high-protein, high-amylase effusions is presented. Operative pancreatogram demonstrated fistulization from the mid-pancreas through the mediastinum into both pleural spaces and the pericardium. Surgical detachment of the fistula and Roux-en-Y decompression of the pancreatic duct resulted in cure of the condition.", "contents": "Internal pancreatic fistula to the pericardium and pleura. A report of a 38-year-old man with a 10 month course of illness characterized by recurrent pericardial and pleural high-protein, high-amylase effusions is presented. Operative pancreatogram demonstrated fistulization from the mid-pancreas through the mediastinum into both pleural spaces and the pericardium. Surgical detachment of the fistula and Roux-en-Y decompression of the pancreatic duct resulted in cure of the condition.", "PMID": 432810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1318", "title": "Improved results of operation for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms.", "content": "Of 1,393 consecutive patients operated on for aneurysm of the abdominal aorta between 1964 and 1978, 61 consecutive patients had undergone emergency operation for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, for an incidence of 4.4% (61 of 1,393). There were 57 men and four women; their mean age was 77.5 years, with a range of 49 to 93 years. In 21 patients the diagnosis of aneurysm had been known from 1 day to 5 years prior to rupture. Hypotension (less than 100 mm Hg systolic) was present in 27.9% of patients (17 of 61) on admission to hospital and prior to operation in a total of 44.3% patients (27 of 61). Operation was begun in eight patients with an initially unrecordable blood pressure. The perioperative mortality rate (30 day) was 14.8% (nine of 61). The two factors most influencing survival were age [no patient younger than 60 years died vs. 40% of patients (four of 10) older than 80 years] and the magnitude of blood loss (survivors lost a total of 4,513 ml vs. 8,500 ml in those who died). Thus the most common cause of death was myocardial infarction (six of eight) in elderly patients, secondary to poorly tolerated severe hypovolemia. The results of this study suggest the need for avoidance of technical problems during operations, earlier referral of patients with known abdominal aortic aneurysms, especially the elderly, and early diagnosis with immediate operation for ruptured aneurysms.", "contents": "Improved results of operation for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. Of 1,393 consecutive patients operated on for aneurysm of the abdominal aorta between 1964 and 1978, 61 consecutive patients had undergone emergency operation for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, for an incidence of 4.4% (61 of 1,393). There were 57 men and four women; their mean age was 77.5 years, with a range of 49 to 93 years. In 21 patients the diagnosis of aneurysm had been known from 1 day to 5 years prior to rupture. Hypotension (less than 100 mm Hg systolic) was present in 27.9% of patients (17 of 61) on admission to hospital and prior to operation in a total of 44.3% patients (27 of 61). Operation was begun in eight patients with an initially unrecordable blood pressure. The perioperative mortality rate (30 day) was 14.8% (nine of 61). The two factors most influencing survival were age [no patient younger than 60 years died vs. 40% of patients (four of 10) older than 80 years] and the magnitude of blood loss (survivors lost a total of 4,513 ml vs. 8,500 ml in those who died). Thus the most common cause of death was myocardial infarction (six of eight) in elderly patients, secondary to poorly tolerated severe hypovolemia. The results of this study suggest the need for avoidance of technical problems during operations, earlier referral of patients with known abdominal aortic aneurysms, especially the elderly, and early diagnosis with immediate operation for ruptured aneurysms.", "PMID": 432811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1319", "title": "Steroid administration and acute pancreatitis: studies with an isolated, perfused canine pancreas.", "content": "Steroid administration has been suspected of causing acute pancreatitis for over 20 years. Clinical and experimental data, however, have failed to firmly establish the association or to uncover a pathogenic mechanism. Utilizing an isolated, ex vivo, perfused, canine pancreas preparation, the acute effects of large doses of steroids on the pancreas were evaluated. Using a dose of 200 mg of methylprednisolone, there were no significant differences between the control and steroid-treated preparations in terms of gross appearance, weight gain, serum amylase, or pancreatic secretion over a 4 hour perfusion period. When the dose of methylpredisolone was increased to 400 mg, again there were no significant differences in gross appearance, weight gain, or serum amylase during a 3 hour perfusion period. However, pancreatic secretion was initially depressed in the steroid-treated preparations. Following a maximal secretory stimulus (secretin), secretion markedly increased during the fourth hour of perfusion, but again was significantly less in the steroid-treated glands. Viscosity of pancreatic secretions was significantly increased in the steroid-treated glands. These studies suggest that steroids have a mild inhibitory effect on pancreatic secretion, which might be mediated through an increase in viscosity.", "contents": "Steroid administration and acute pancreatitis: studies with an isolated, perfused canine pancreas. Steroid administration has been suspected of causing acute pancreatitis for over 20 years. Clinical and experimental data, however, have failed to firmly establish the association or to uncover a pathogenic mechanism. Utilizing an isolated, ex vivo, perfused, canine pancreas preparation, the acute effects of large doses of steroids on the pancreas were evaluated. Using a dose of 200 mg of methylprednisolone, there were no significant differences between the control and steroid-treated preparations in terms of gross appearance, weight gain, serum amylase, or pancreatic secretion over a 4 hour perfusion period. When the dose of methylpredisolone was increased to 400 mg, again there were no significant differences in gross appearance, weight gain, or serum amylase during a 3 hour perfusion period. However, pancreatic secretion was initially depressed in the steroid-treated preparations. Following a maximal secretory stimulus (secretin), secretion markedly increased during the fourth hour of perfusion, but again was significantly less in the steroid-treated glands. Viscosity of pancreatic secretions was significantly increased in the steroid-treated glands. These studies suggest that steroids have a mild inhibitory effect on pancreatic secretion, which might be mediated through an increase in viscosity.", "PMID": 432812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1320", "title": "Internal vascular access for hemodialysis in children weighing less than fifteen kilograms.", "content": "An arteroarterial femoral graft using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene is described which has been successfully for vascular access in young children having small peripheral vessels. This graft allows high flow and favorable patency for dialysis without the complications of arteriovenous shunting or the risks associated with an external hemodialysis device. This graft has been used successfully for outpatient dialysis in children weighing as little as 9 kg and may be a useful adjunct in long-term dialysis of patients for whom more conventional means of vascular access are not acceptable.", "contents": "Internal vascular access for hemodialysis in children weighing less than fifteen kilograms. An arteroarterial femoral graft using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene is described which has been successfully for vascular access in young children having small peripheral vessels. This graft allows high flow and favorable patency for dialysis without the complications of arteriovenous shunting or the risks associated with an external hemodialysis device. This graft has been used successfully for outpatient dialysis in children weighing as little as 9 kg and may be a useful adjunct in long-term dialysis of patients for whom more conventional means of vascular access are not acceptable.", "PMID": 432813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1321", "title": "The ligation of the splenic artery in the treatment of traumatic rupture of the spleen.", "content": "Overwhelming sepsis is splenectomized children may be a real threat to life. As an alternative to splenectomy, ligation of the splenic artery in combination which splenorrhaphy was used successfully in two children with splenic trauma involving major segmental vessels. In both patients the postoperative course was normal. Peripheral blood tests, immunological studies, and scintigraphies disclosed no abnormalities of the spleen after the ligation of the splenic artery. Aortographies showed a collateral arterial network in the spleen. Therewith, 11 and 12 months after the operation, respectively, both cases--the first of our series--are presented and discussed.", "contents": "The ligation of the splenic artery in the treatment of traumatic rupture of the spleen. Overwhelming sepsis is splenectomized children may be a real threat to life. As an alternative to splenectomy, ligation of the splenic artery in combination which splenorrhaphy was used successfully in two children with splenic trauma involving major segmental vessels. In both patients the postoperative course was normal. Peripheral blood tests, immunological studies, and scintigraphies disclosed no abnormalities of the spleen after the ligation of the splenic artery. Aortographies showed a collateral arterial network in the spleen. Therewith, 11 and 12 months after the operation, respectively, both cases--the first of our series--are presented and discussed.", "PMID": 432814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1322", "title": "Gastric acid secretion after chemical sympathectomy.", "content": "Adrenergic nerve terminals in several organs are selectively destroyed by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) resulting in a chemical sympathectomy that is reversible. In this study the acute and chronic effects of 6-OHDA on gastric mucosa and acid secretion were evaluated. Four dogs were given 6-OHDA (40 mg/kg, intravenously). Gastric biopsies were taken before treatment and biweekly thereafter and were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy (Hillarp-Falck). Degeneration of adrenergic nerve terminals in the mucosa was complete at 1 week. Early regeneration was noted at 3 weeks and appeared to be complete at 9 weeks. In another group of seven dogs with a gastric fistula, dose-response curves to pnetagastrin (PPG, 0 to 5 microgram/kg/hr) were determined. Then 6-OHDA (40 mg/kg) was given to these dogs and secretory studies were repeated weekly thereafter for 8 weeks. After 6-OHDA administration, acid secretion increased in response to submaximal doses of PPG, whereas maximal secretion was unchanged. The peak increase occurred the second week; thereafter secretion gradually returned to control values. We conclude that chemical sympathectomy (6-OHDA) increases gastric acid secretion in response to submaximal PPG stimulation. This increase correlates well with the 6-OHDA--induced degeneration of adrenergic terminals in the mucosa. These data suggest that the adrenergic innervation of the stomach has an inhibitory effect on the control of acid secretion in the dog.", "contents": "Gastric acid secretion after chemical sympathectomy. Adrenergic nerve terminals in several organs are selectively destroyed by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) resulting in a chemical sympathectomy that is reversible. In this study the acute and chronic effects of 6-OHDA on gastric mucosa and acid secretion were evaluated. Four dogs were given 6-OHDA (40 mg/kg, intravenously). Gastric biopsies were taken before treatment and biweekly thereafter and were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy (Hillarp-Falck). Degeneration of adrenergic nerve terminals in the mucosa was complete at 1 week. Early regeneration was noted at 3 weeks and appeared to be complete at 9 weeks. In another group of seven dogs with a gastric fistula, dose-response curves to pnetagastrin (PPG, 0 to 5 microgram/kg/hr) were determined. Then 6-OHDA (40 mg/kg) was given to these dogs and secretory studies were repeated weekly thereafter for 8 weeks. After 6-OHDA administration, acid secretion increased in response to submaximal doses of PPG, whereas maximal secretion was unchanged. The peak increase occurred the second week; thereafter secretion gradually returned to control values. We conclude that chemical sympathectomy (6-OHDA) increases gastric acid secretion in response to submaximal PPG stimulation. This increase correlates well with the 6-OHDA--induced degeneration of adrenergic terminals in the mucosa. These data suggest that the adrenergic innervation of the stomach has an inhibitory effect on the control of acid secretion in the dog.", "PMID": 432815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1323", "title": "Neutrophil function in surgical patients: in vitro correlation of abnormal neutrophil chemotaxis by Levamisole.", "content": "Cutaneous anergy to recall skin test antigens is associated with decreased polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) chemotaxis (CTX). This decreased PMN chemotaxis is mediated by factors circulating in the sera (AS) from patients with anergy. Levamisole hydrochloride will correct the chemotactic defect of neutrophils from anergic patients, in vitro, from 96.2 +/- 1.2 to 125.1 +/- 1.7 microns at concentrations of 10(-3) M to 10(-18) M. Pretreatment of normal PMN with Levamisole at 10(-4) M will protect them from the chemotactic inhibiting effect of AS. Normal PMN migrating in the normal range, 128.1+/- 2.7 microns, can be made to behave like anergic PMN by treatment with AS. These PMN which now migrate in the anergic range 92.1 +/- 1.7 microns can be converted back to normal by Levamisole treatment at 10(-3) M to 10(-18) M. In 35 surgical patients who demonstrated the spectrum of decreased PMN CTX, the majority toward the anergy level, Levamisole improved the PMN CTX toward normal levels in every instance, while not affecting the CTX of the normally migrating PMN.", "contents": "Neutrophil function in surgical patients: in vitro correlation of abnormal neutrophil chemotaxis by Levamisole. Cutaneous anergy to recall skin test antigens is associated with decreased polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) chemotaxis (CTX). This decreased PMN chemotaxis is mediated by factors circulating in the sera (AS) from patients with anergy. Levamisole hydrochloride will correct the chemotactic defect of neutrophils from anergic patients, in vitro, from 96.2 +/- 1.2 to 125.1 +/- 1.7 microns at concentrations of 10(-3) M to 10(-18) M. Pretreatment of normal PMN with Levamisole at 10(-4) M will protect them from the chemotactic inhibiting effect of AS. Normal PMN migrating in the normal range, 128.1+/- 2.7 microns, can be made to behave like anergic PMN by treatment with AS. These PMN which now migrate in the anergic range 92.1 +/- 1.7 microns can be converted back to normal by Levamisole treatment at 10(-3) M to 10(-18) M. In 35 surgical patients who demonstrated the spectrum of decreased PMN CTX, the majority toward the anergy level, Levamisole improved the PMN CTX toward normal levels in every instance, while not affecting the CTX of the normally migrating PMN.", "PMID": 432816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1324", "title": "Contact double-contrast cholangiography.", "content": "Recently operative cholangiography has become an essential step in biliary surgery. However, an usual technique in which x-ray film is set beneath the patient has its limitation in visualization of fine changes. The author devised a new technique to resolve this problem. A triangular mammography film designed for good positioning is vaccum-packed, coupled with an intensifying screen of the same size, and then is sterilized in advance. Barium solution mixed with Gascon drop (a defoaming agent) is used as contrast material. The duodenum and head of the pancreas are mobilized. Usual cholangiography is performed at first, introducing angiographic media through a catheter placed into the catheter placed into the common duct via the cystic duct. After this study a triangle film pack is set beneath the second part of the duodenum. Two to three milliliters of barium, 1 to 2 ml of Gascon, and 15 ml of air are pushed in; thus a contact double-contrast cholangiogram is obtained. This technique promises clear demonstration of the distal bile duct without risk, and even fine mucosal plicae may be discernible in the film.", "contents": "Contact double-contrast cholangiography. Recently operative cholangiography has become an essential step in biliary surgery. However, an usual technique in which x-ray film is set beneath the patient has its limitation in visualization of fine changes. The author devised a new technique to resolve this problem. A triangular mammography film designed for good positioning is vaccum-packed, coupled with an intensifying screen of the same size, and then is sterilized in advance. Barium solution mixed with Gascon drop (a defoaming agent) is used as contrast material. The duodenum and head of the pancreas are mobilized. Usual cholangiography is performed at first, introducing angiographic media through a catheter placed into the catheter placed into the common duct via the cystic duct. After this study a triangle film pack is set beneath the second part of the duodenum. Two to three milliliters of barium, 1 to 2 ml of Gascon, and 15 ml of air are pushed in; thus a contact double-contrast cholangiogram is obtained. This technique promises clear demonstration of the distal bile duct without risk, and even fine mucosal plicae may be discernible in the film.", "PMID": 432817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1325", "title": "Increased peripheral amino acid release following burn injury.", "content": "Turnover rates of 10 amino acids were determined in four normal subjects and 18 burned patients (mean burn size, 41% of total body surface) by measuring leg blood flow by venous occlusion plethysmography and arterial (A) and femoral venous (FV) amino acid concentrations. Patient arterial plasma amino acid concentrations generally were low or normal, although phenylalanine was elevated. Only alanine demonstrated significant A-FV concentration difference (-9 +/- 2 mumole/100 ml in patients vs -5 +/- 1in controls, mean +/- SEM). Leg blood flow was 6.26 +/- 0.57 ml/100 ml of leg volume . min in the patients and 2.62 +/- 0.57 in controls. While the net peripheral release of the 10 amino acids was accelerated following injury, only alanine release was consistently greater in the patients (0.27 plus or minus 0.05 mumole/100 ml in leg volume . min) as compared with that of controls (0.08 +/- 0.02). The increased alanine release from legs of patients generally was related to the extent of total body surface injury and oxygen consumption of the patient, but was unrelated to size of limb burn or leg blood flow. The accelerated rate of alanine release from limbs of burn patients relates to the generalized catabolic effects of injury rather than to local inflammatory or metabolic events which may occur in the injured extremity.", "contents": "Increased peripheral amino acid release following burn injury. Turnover rates of 10 amino acids were determined in four normal subjects and 18 burned patients (mean burn size, 41% of total body surface) by measuring leg blood flow by venous occlusion plethysmography and arterial (A) and femoral venous (FV) amino acid concentrations. Patient arterial plasma amino acid concentrations generally were low or normal, although phenylalanine was elevated. Only alanine demonstrated significant A-FV concentration difference (-9 +/- 2 mumole/100 ml in patients vs -5 +/- 1in controls, mean +/- SEM). Leg blood flow was 6.26 +/- 0.57 ml/100 ml of leg volume . min in the patients and 2.62 +/- 0.57 in controls. While the net peripheral release of the 10 amino acids was accelerated following injury, only alanine release was consistently greater in the patients (0.27 plus or minus 0.05 mumole/100 ml in leg volume . min) as compared with that of controls (0.08 +/- 0.02). The increased alanine release from legs of patients generally was related to the extent of total body surface injury and oxygen consumption of the patient, but was unrelated to size of limb burn or leg blood flow. The accelerated rate of alanine release from limbs of burn patients relates to the generalized catabolic effects of injury rather than to local inflammatory or metabolic events which may occur in the injured extremity.", "PMID": 432818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1326", "title": "Compartmentalized gastrosplenic and mesenteric venous hypertension after distal splenorenal shunt occlusion: response to mesocaval shunt and splenectomy.", "content": "This is a report of a patient with a thrombosed Warren shunt and recurrent variceal hemorrhage who demonstrated compartmentalized venous hypertension in the mesenteric and gastrosplenic systems. Although the mesenteric presssure was normalized by the construction of a mesocaval interposition shunt, the gastrosplenic venous pressure remained elevated until splenectomy was performed. Warren shunt occlusion should be considered as a cause of segmental portal hypertension. Splenectomy may be a necessary adjunct in patients suitable for reshunting.", "contents": "Compartmentalized gastrosplenic and mesenteric venous hypertension after distal splenorenal shunt occlusion: response to mesocaval shunt and splenectomy. This is a report of a patient with a thrombosed Warren shunt and recurrent variceal hemorrhage who demonstrated compartmentalized venous hypertension in the mesenteric and gastrosplenic systems. Although the mesenteric presssure was normalized by the construction of a mesocaval interposition shunt, the gastrosplenic venous pressure remained elevated until splenectomy was performed. Warren shunt occlusion should be considered as a cause of segmental portal hypertension. Splenectomy may be a necessary adjunct in patients suitable for reshunting.", "PMID": 432820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1327", "title": "Vertebral artery aneurysm: case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A nontender, nonpulsatile large anterior neck mass was found at operation to be an atherosclerotic aneurysm of the vertebral artery, an extremely rare condition. Proximal control and distal control were obtained and the aneurysm was excised. Aneurysms of the vertebral artery are infrequent but well-defined complications in connective tissue disorders such as the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and they can develop subsequent to penetrating neck trauma. However, no cases of atherosclertic vertebral artery aneurysms have been reported recently in the English-language literature. The case presented illustrates that this rare condition should be considered in all patients who have neck masses of undetermined etiology.", "contents": "Vertebral artery aneurysm: case report and review of the literature. A nontender, nonpulsatile large anterior neck mass was found at operation to be an atherosclerotic aneurysm of the vertebral artery, an extremely rare condition. Proximal control and distal control were obtained and the aneurysm was excised. Aneurysms of the vertebral artery are infrequent but well-defined complications in connective tissue disorders such as the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and they can develop subsequent to penetrating neck trauma. However, no cases of atherosclertic vertebral artery aneurysms have been reported recently in the English-language literature. The case presented illustrates that this rare condition should be considered in all patients who have neck masses of undetermined etiology.", "PMID": 432821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1328", "title": "Fungal infection of a vascular prosthesis.", "content": "Chronic debilitating hematological disorders and cytotoxic drugs may create conditions causing a predisposition to fungal infections of vascular grafts. Under such circumstances routine bacteriological investigations should be supplemented by specific fungal media cultures and microscopic examination of removed infected graft.", "contents": "Fungal infection of a vascular prosthesis. Chronic debilitating hematological disorders and cytotoxic drugs may create conditions causing a predisposition to fungal infections of vascular grafts. Under such circumstances routine bacteriological investigations should be supplemented by specific fungal media cultures and microscopic examination of removed infected graft.", "PMID": 432822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1329", "title": "Congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease): report of a case and review of the literature.", "content": "A case of congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease) followed for more than 7 years is reported. This patient presented also with congenital hepatic fibrosis, gallstones, and biliary hypersecretion of more than 3,000 ml in 24 hours. An analysis of the literature relating to Caroli's disease disclosed 46 well-documented cases of both hepatic histopathology and biliary tree studies. Six cases (13%) were found to be isolated forms of intrahepatic cystic dilatations; 16 (34.7%) were associated with congenital hepatic fibrosis; 10 (21.7%) presented with either a choledochal cyst or nonobstructive extrahepatic biliary tree dilatation; and in 14 cases (30%) the three anomalies were found together in the same patient. After these findings, we think that congenital hepatic fibrosis, congenital cystic dilatations of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease), choledochal cyst and other nonobstructive dilatations of the extrahepatic biliary tree are possibly the same congenital disease with different levels of involvement.", "contents": "Congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease): report of a case and review of the literature. A case of congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease) followed for more than 7 years is reported. This patient presented also with congenital hepatic fibrosis, gallstones, and biliary hypersecretion of more than 3,000 ml in 24 hours. An analysis of the literature relating to Caroli's disease disclosed 46 well-documented cases of both hepatic histopathology and biliary tree studies. Six cases (13%) were found to be isolated forms of intrahepatic cystic dilatations; 16 (34.7%) were associated with congenital hepatic fibrosis; 10 (21.7%) presented with either a choledochal cyst or nonobstructive extrahepatic biliary tree dilatation; and in 14 cases (30%) the three anomalies were found together in the same patient. After these findings, we think that congenital hepatic fibrosis, congenital cystic dilatations of the intrahepatic bile ducts (Caroli's disease), choledochal cyst and other nonobstructive dilatations of the extrahepatic biliary tree are possibly the same congenital disease with different levels of involvement.", "PMID": 432823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1330", "title": "Possible aspects of normal unphysiological commercial conditions on the estrus and early pregnancy in pigs.", "content": "Gilts and sows kept under unphysiological commercial conditions may show delayed puberty, delayed estrus postweaning and delayed returns after insemination. It is postulated that in all three manifestations gonadotropic insufficiency is the causative factor, produced by inadequate exteroceptive stimulation, mainly of olfactory origin, or by a configuration of stimuli which is experienced as in-appropriate by the individual organism. Pituitary L.H. is necessary to induce teritary follicles to secrete estrogens, which play a prominent part in estrus expression and in turn evoke the pre-ovulatory L.H. peak flow. Pituitary L.H. also appears to be necessary for persistence of of the corpora lutea during early pregnancy and this L.H. release may also be inhibited under inadequate physiological conditions. Therefore anaphrodisia in big commercial piggeries can be a normal physiologic reaction of the animal and more or less an adaptation to these unfavourable circumstances. For the greater part delayed puberty and delayed estrus postweaning seem to be coupled with anestrus and can easily be overcome by gonadotropin treatment in this case. Resulting fertility can be normal, even under severe stressful conditions. The delayed returns after insemination are partly caused by embryonal mortality. This mortality is at least for a part caused by gonadotropin insufficiency which in future may be prevented by application of a proper treatment as well.", "contents": "Possible aspects of normal unphysiological commercial conditions on the estrus and early pregnancy in pigs. Gilts and sows kept under unphysiological commercial conditions may show delayed puberty, delayed estrus postweaning and delayed returns after insemination. It is postulated that in all three manifestations gonadotropic insufficiency is the causative factor, produced by inadequate exteroceptive stimulation, mainly of olfactory origin, or by a configuration of stimuli which is experienced as in-appropriate by the individual organism. Pituitary L.H. is necessary to induce teritary follicles to secrete estrogens, which play a prominent part in estrus expression and in turn evoke the pre-ovulatory L.H. peak flow. Pituitary L.H. also appears to be necessary for persistence of of the corpora lutea during early pregnancy and this L.H. release may also be inhibited under inadequate physiological conditions. Therefore anaphrodisia in big commercial piggeries can be a normal physiologic reaction of the animal and more or less an adaptation to these unfavourable circumstances. For the greater part delayed puberty and delayed estrus postweaning seem to be coupled with anestrus and can easily be overcome by gonadotropin treatment in this case. Resulting fertility can be normal, even under severe stressful conditions. The delayed returns after insemination are partly caused by embryonal mortality. This mortality is at least for a part caused by gonadotropin insufficiency which in future may be prevented by application of a proper treatment as well.", "PMID": 432877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1331", "title": "Perilobular fibrosis in chronic bovine fascioliasis.", "content": "The character, extent, and localization of perilobular fibrosis were studied in cattle experimentally infected with Fasciola hepatica. Such fibrosis is indirectly due to the liver flukes. The regionally localized fibrosis results from cholestasis due to transient occlusion of branches of the biliary tree. In periobular fibrosis it is possible to distinguish a florid, an intermediate, and an uncomplicated form. The florid phase is marked by proliferation of the biliary epithelium and is followed by infiltration of inflammatory cells.", "contents": "Perilobular fibrosis in chronic bovine fascioliasis. The character, extent, and localization of perilobular fibrosis were studied in cattle experimentally infected with Fasciola hepatica. Such fibrosis is indirectly due to the liver flukes. The regionally localized fibrosis results from cholestasis due to transient occlusion of branches of the biliary tree. In periobular fibrosis it is possible to distinguish a florid, an intermediate, and an uncomplicated form. The florid phase is marked by proliferation of the biliary epithelium and is followed by infiltration of inflammatory cells.", "PMID": 432878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1332", "title": "Milk production increase following treatment of Dutch dairy cattle with thiabendazole.", "content": "In a trial involving 542 dairy cattle on 28 farms, 276 were treated once with thiabendazole within two days of calving. The treated group showed an average increase in milk yielded over the non-return group of 229.8 kg during the subsequent lactation. In the treated group, total milk fat production was increased over that of the controls by 7.4 kg per cow; milk protein was increased by 6.9 kg per cow. All treatment parameter differences were highly significant at the 1% level of probability.", "contents": "Milk production increase following treatment of Dutch dairy cattle with thiabendazole. In a trial involving 542 dairy cattle on 28 farms, 276 were treated once with thiabendazole within two days of calving. The treated group showed an average increase in milk yielded over the non-return group of 229.8 kg during the subsequent lactation. In the treated group, total milk fat production was increased over that of the controls by 7.4 kg per cow; milk protein was increased by 6.9 kg per cow. All treatment parameter differences were highly significant at the 1% level of probability.", "PMID": 432879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1333", "title": "Contribution to the aetiology of synovitis in chickens, with special reference to non-infective factors. IV.", "content": "The comparative study reported in the present paper was undertaken to collect data on the collagen content and collagen quality of tendons showing high (low) tensile strength levels and a compact (loose) histological structure. It was shown that tendon tissues of these two groups do not differ in this regard. The effect of administering a number of mutrients (known to be essential in collagenesis) was tested during this study. Administration of these mutrients did not prevent synovitis and did not increase tensile strength.", "contents": "Contribution to the aetiology of synovitis in chickens, with special reference to non-infective factors. IV. The comparative study reported in the present paper was undertaken to collect data on the collagen content and collagen quality of tendons showing high (low) tensile strength levels and a compact (loose) histological structure. It was shown that tendon tissues of these two groups do not differ in this regard. The effect of administering a number of mutrients (known to be essential in collagenesis) was tested during this study. Administration of these mutrients did not prevent synovitis and did not increase tensile strength.", "PMID": 432880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1334", "title": "[Babesiosis in dogs in the Netherlands (author's transl)].", "content": "In recent years, babesiosis is frequently observed in dogs which have been on holiday with their owners in southern Europe. The epidemiology and wide variety of symptoms are discussed. Satisfactory results were obtained on treatment with Berenil (Hoechst) and Acaprin (Bayer). In addition to tick control, Imizole (Burroughs Wellcome) might be adopted in preventive treatment.", "contents": "[Babesiosis in dogs in the Netherlands (author's transl)]. In recent years, babesiosis is frequently observed in dogs which have been on holiday with their owners in southern Europe. The epidemiology and wide variety of symptoms are discussed. Satisfactory results were obtained on treatment with Berenil (Hoechst) and Acaprin (Bayer). In addition to tick control, Imizole (Burroughs Wellcome) might be adopted in preventive treatment.", "PMID": 432881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1335", "title": "[Malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (author's transl)].", "content": "Therapeutic results from 134 cases with malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are reported. Retrospective classification based on clinical and roentgenological findings was possible in 121 cases. 49 patients underwent primary radiation treatment by 60Co-teletherapy, 46 were exposed to postoperative irradiation. The mean 2-year survival rate considering all stages and all kinds of malignant tumors amounts to 52%, the 5-year survival rate to ca. 32%. The 5-year survival rate obtained by means of curative tumor doses was 59%. Recurrences of the tumor appeared in 58 cases (43%), most of them in the course of a year. The therapeutic control of local tumor disease and the possibilities of an early detection of recurrences, improved with the help of new diagnostic methods, must therefore be regarded as the essential problems. No generally approved clinical classification of tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is available as yet, and the comparison of therapeutic results from different authors thus is difficult.", "contents": "[Malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (author's transl)]. Therapeutic results from 134 cases with malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are reported. Retrospective classification based on clinical and roentgenological findings was possible in 121 cases. 49 patients underwent primary radiation treatment by 60Co-teletherapy, 46 were exposed to postoperative irradiation. The mean 2-year survival rate considering all stages and all kinds of malignant tumors amounts to 52%, the 5-year survival rate to ca. 32%. The 5-year survival rate obtained by means of curative tumor doses was 59%. Recurrences of the tumor appeared in 58 cases (43%), most of them in the course of a year. The therapeutic control of local tumor disease and the possibilities of an early detection of recurrences, improved with the help of new diagnostic methods, must therefore be regarded as the essential problems. No generally approved clinical classification of tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is available as yet, and the comparison of therapeutic results from different authors thus is difficult.", "PMID": 432886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1336", "title": "[Local recurrences in keratoid squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity: incidence, causes and therapy after a curative primary treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "The frequency of local recurrences in keratoid squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity is analyzed in view of the following criteria: Irradiation technique, volume of the primary tumor, irradiation parameters considering the factor of dose and time. The values of the dose, measured by ret, were calculated using the Ellis-formula modified by Gabriel-J\u00fcrgens et al. A focal dose of 1,700 ret is recommended for Stage T1 carcinomas of the tongue, a dose of 1,900 ret for the stages T2 and T3. The importance of the concept of nominal standard dose is emphasized with regard to its clinical application. Surgery seems to be superior to the renewal of radiation therapy in the treatment of recurrences.", "contents": "[Local recurrences in keratoid squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity: incidence, causes and therapy after a curative primary treatment (author's transl)]. The frequency of local recurrences in keratoid squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity is analyzed in view of the following criteria: Irradiation technique, volume of the primary tumor, irradiation parameters considering the factor of dose and time. The values of the dose, measured by ret, were calculated using the Ellis-formula modified by Gabriel-J\u00fcrgens et al. A focal dose of 1,700 ret is recommended for Stage T1 carcinomas of the tongue, a dose of 1,900 ret for the stages T2 and T3. The importance of the concept of nominal standard dose is emphasized with regard to its clinical application. Surgery seems to be superior to the renewal of radiation therapy in the treatment of recurrences.", "PMID": 432887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1337", "title": "[The period of time between operation and irradiation of a mamma carcinoma and its cytostatic treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "The critical attitude towards the additional chemotherapy of the mamma carcinoma is justified by the results of 453 patients submitted to post-operative irradiations. With the indication corresponding to their stade, 43 patients were treated by chemotherapy according to Ward. The remission rate was 70%.", "contents": "[The period of time between operation and irradiation of a mamma carcinoma and its cytostatic treatment (author's transl)]. The critical attitude towards the additional chemotherapy of the mamma carcinoma is justified by the results of 453 patients submitted to post-operative irradiations. With the indication corresponding to their stade, 43 patients were treated by chemotherapy according to Ward. The remission rate was 70%.", "PMID": 432888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1338", "title": "[Diagnosis of tumors of the parotid gland by sialography and saialoscintigraphy. A comparative study on 49 patients (author's transl)].", "content": "169 patients with different diseases of the salivary glands were examined by means of sialography and sialoscintigraphy. The results of these examinations were analysed by a blindfold test. The sialographic diagnosis was correct for 47 of 49 tumors checked by histologic examinations. There is no specific criterium for the scintigraphic determiation of a tumor; there are concentrations as well as filling defects and retentions. The correct side, however, was found by scintigraphy in 46 cases. Only if a Warthin's tumor is suspected, the diagnosis can be confirmed by scintigraphy if a concentration is found. Generally, sialoscintigraphy should only be executed if sialography has technically failed. A distinction by means of sialography of benign and malignant tumors is not possible.", "contents": "[Diagnosis of tumors of the parotid gland by sialography and saialoscintigraphy. A comparative study on 49 patients (author's transl)]. 169 patients with different diseases of the salivary glands were examined by means of sialography and sialoscintigraphy. The results of these examinations were analysed by a blindfold test. The sialographic diagnosis was correct for 47 of 49 tumors checked by histologic examinations. There is no specific criterium for the scintigraphic determiation of a tumor; there are concentrations as well as filling defects and retentions. The correct side, however, was found by scintigraphy in 46 cases. Only if a Warthin's tumor is suspected, the diagnosis can be confirmed by scintigraphy if a concentration is found. Generally, sialoscintigraphy should only be executed if sialography has technically failed. A distinction by means of sialography of benign and malignant tumors is not possible.", "PMID": 432889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1339", "title": "[Measurement by means of 99mTc-pertechnetate of the function of salivary glands before and after stimulation with pilocarpine in cases of sicca-syndrome of the parotidic glands (author's transl)].", "content": "Judgement on xerostomia in systemic diseases of the salivary glands and on the sicca-syndrome as a side-effect of radiation therapy or of a treatment with psychopharmaca has been improved by the function test of the parotidic glands for each side individually with 99mTc-pertechnetate, particularly in view of the detection of lateral differences. Measurements of the salivation volume and activity are completive of the function test, yielding knowledge of the total excretory power of all the salivary glands. Functional remainders and reserves can be visualized objectively by additional utilization of the pilocarpine stimulation test (to-day performed with carbachol). The findings will be still more precise if the parotidic salivation is collected and measured for each side separately. This exploration method is appropriate for frequent controls in the course of a disease and for the forming of an opinion upon therapeutic effects of sialagogic agents.", "contents": "[Measurement by means of 99mTc-pertechnetate of the function of salivary glands before and after stimulation with pilocarpine in cases of sicca-syndrome of the parotidic glands (author's transl)]. Judgement on xerostomia in systemic diseases of the salivary glands and on the sicca-syndrome as a side-effect of radiation therapy or of a treatment with psychopharmaca has been improved by the function test of the parotidic glands for each side individually with 99mTc-pertechnetate, particularly in view of the detection of lateral differences. Measurements of the salivation volume and activity are completive of the function test, yielding knowledge of the total excretory power of all the salivary glands. Functional remainders and reserves can be visualized objectively by additional utilization of the pilocarpine stimulation test (to-day performed with carbachol). The findings will be still more precise if the parotidic salivation is collected and measured for each side separately. This exploration method is appropriate for frequent controls in the course of a disease and for the forming of an opinion upon therapeutic effects of sialagogic agents.", "PMID": 432890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1340", "title": "On output variations of therapeutic x-ray equipment.", "content": "The author has measured the exposure rate of 56 orthovolt X-ray units. A comparison of consecutive measurements resulted in a 4.2% standard deviation which is mainly due to output variation of the X-ray equipment itself and due to the variation of mains supply. The repeatability of an irradiation controlled by a timer is therefore +/- 9% (on the 95% confidence level), which is much lower than recommended by the ICRU or stipulated in Hungarian National Standards. This accuracy is however sufficient in non-tumor therapy. The output variation among therapeutic X-ray units is high (sigma x approximately 22%) and correlates with the HVL measurements. The advantage of a central dosimetric service is the reduction of the number of unnecessary radiation qualities and superfluous combinations of radiation qualities, tube current and FSD.", "contents": "On output variations of therapeutic x-ray equipment. The author has measured the exposure rate of 56 orthovolt X-ray units. A comparison of consecutive measurements resulted in a 4.2% standard deviation which is mainly due to output variation of the X-ray equipment itself and due to the variation of mains supply. The repeatability of an irradiation controlled by a timer is therefore +/- 9% (on the 95% confidence level), which is much lower than recommended by the ICRU or stipulated in Hungarian National Standards. This accuracy is however sufficient in non-tumor therapy. The output variation among therapeutic X-ray units is high (sigma x approximately 22%) and correlates with the HVL measurements. The advantage of a central dosimetric service is the reduction of the number of unnecessary radiation qualities and superfluous combinations of radiation qualities, tube current and FSD.", "PMID": 432892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1341", "title": "[Tangential pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall with co-60 during radiation therapy of surgically treated cancers of the breast: comparison of measurement and computation methods for irradiation planning (author's transl)].", "content": "The irradiation technique for tangential pendulum 60-Co-irradiation of the thoracic wall is described, and the possibility of a homogeneous irradiation of the thoracic region of interest by means of individual irradiation planning together with a careful, but practicable, technique of positioning and adjustment is shown. The radiation load to the lung can be kept on a moderate level. Phantom measurements with thermoluminescence probes, films and an ionization chamber have been performed for three typical forms of the thorax. Dose distributions thus obtained show a satisfying accordance with calculated values of the dose, the deviations amounting to 3 to 8%. The EDP program applied, COMRAD, thus permits computation of individual pendulum isodoses with sufficient accuracy in practice, and therefore, may be used regularly.", "contents": "[Tangential pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall with co-60 during radiation therapy of surgically treated cancers of the breast: comparison of measurement and computation methods for irradiation planning (author's transl)]. The irradiation technique for tangential pendulum 60-Co-irradiation of the thoracic wall is described, and the possibility of a homogeneous irradiation of the thoracic region of interest by means of individual irradiation planning together with a careful, but practicable, technique of positioning and adjustment is shown. The radiation load to the lung can be kept on a moderate level. Phantom measurements with thermoluminescence probes, films and an ionization chamber have been performed for three typical forms of the thorax. Dose distributions thus obtained show a satisfying accordance with calculated values of the dose, the deviations amounting to 3 to 8%. The EDP program applied, COMRAD, thus permits computation of individual pendulum isodoses with sufficient accuracy in practice, and therefore, may be used regularly.", "PMID": 432893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1342", "title": "[Contribution of the local resolution in measurements using detectors with a cylindrical section (author's transl)].", "content": "The method reported in this notice is permitting to correct the influence of finite detector diameters on the shape of measured isodose curves.", "contents": "[Contribution of the local resolution in measurements using detectors with a cylindrical section (author's transl)]. The method reported in this notice is permitting to correct the influence of finite detector diameters on the shape of measured isodose curves.", "PMID": 432894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1343", "title": "[Decorporation of radionuclides investigations on the pharmacokinetics of DTPA by means of its decorporating effect on 144Cer (author's transl)].", "content": "The influence of Zn-DTPA on the retention of 144Cer in several organs of the rat was investigated 4 days after 144Cer application either with intact or with prevented renal excretion. As the 144Cer activity mobilized from the liver is recovered in gut and faeces an excretion of DTPA bount 144Cer with the bile can be assumed. In animals with impeded renal function an amount of 144Cer is accumulated in blood and extracellular water which corresponds to that mobilized from the skeleton and is normally excreted with the urine.", "contents": "[Decorporation of radionuclides investigations on the pharmacokinetics of DTPA by means of its decorporating effect on 144Cer (author's transl)]. The influence of Zn-DTPA on the retention of 144Cer in several organs of the rat was investigated 4 days after 144Cer application either with intact or with prevented renal excretion. As the 144Cer activity mobilized from the liver is recovered in gut and faeces an excretion of DTPA bount 144Cer with the bile can be assumed. In animals with impeded renal function an amount of 144Cer is accumulated in blood and extracellular water which corresponds to that mobilized from the skeleton and is normally excreted with the urine.", "PMID": 432895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1344", "title": "Effect of dextran on cerebral function and blood after cardiac arrest. An experimental study on the dog.", "content": "EEG activity and regional cerebral blood flow were monitored during 5 hour survival following cardiac arrest in 32 pentobarbital anesthetized mongrel dogs. The animals were mechanically ventilated and blood gases were maintained at physiologic levels. Regional cerebral blood flow and cardiac output were measured using 15 mu microspheres. EEG was recorded from 6 epidural electrodes using bipolar techniques. The animals were divided into 3 groups. The animals in Group I had an arrest of 8-11 minutes and those in Group II and III had an arrest of 12-16 minutes. Group II animals received no treatment. Group III animals were given 1 g/kg of dextran 40 at a concentration of 10% in normal saline following the arrest and maintained with 10 mg/kg/min during the 5 hours of recovery. In Groups I and III there was shorter duration of a flat EEG and 5 hours after the arrest the EEG activity was closer to normal than in Group II. After 5 hours the EEG scores of Group III were significantly greater than Group II (p less than 0.03). The cortical grey matter and hippocampus had the greatest reduction of blood flow following cardiac arrest. The mean cortical grey matter blood flow in Group II was less than in Groups I and III at 3 hours. After 5 hours the grey matter blood flow was greater in Group III than in Group II (p less than 0.09). The findings of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that after cardiac arrest perfusion abnormalities persist or develop after return of blood pressure and that these can be corrected or prevented with improved functional survival by treatment with dextran 40 after the arrest.", "contents": "Effect of dextran on cerebral function and blood after cardiac arrest. An experimental study on the dog. EEG activity and regional cerebral blood flow were monitored during 5 hour survival following cardiac arrest in 32 pentobarbital anesthetized mongrel dogs. The animals were mechanically ventilated and blood gases were maintained at physiologic levels. Regional cerebral blood flow and cardiac output were measured using 15 mu microspheres. EEG was recorded from 6 epidural electrodes using bipolar techniques. The animals were divided into 3 groups. The animals in Group I had an arrest of 8-11 minutes and those in Group II and III had an arrest of 12-16 minutes. Group II animals received no treatment. Group III animals were given 1 g/kg of dextran 40 at a concentration of 10% in normal saline following the arrest and maintained with 10 mg/kg/min during the 5 hours of recovery. In Groups I and III there was shorter duration of a flat EEG and 5 hours after the arrest the EEG activity was closer to normal than in Group II. After 5 hours the EEG scores of Group III were significantly greater than Group II (p less than 0.03). The cortical grey matter and hippocampus had the greatest reduction of blood flow following cardiac arrest. The mean cortical grey matter blood flow in Group II was less than in Groups I and III at 3 hours. After 5 hours the grey matter blood flow was greater in Group III than in Group II (p less than 0.09). The findings of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that after cardiac arrest perfusion abnormalities persist or develop after return of blood pressure and that these can be corrected or prevented with improved functional survival by treatment with dextran 40 after the arrest.", "PMID": 432896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1345", "title": "Dyadic death: murder-suicide.", "content": "Twenty homicide-suicides, drawn from death records of three major eastern United States cities, were analyzed in comparison to prior studies and samples of homicide offenders and suicide victims. Results indicated a lower incidence for this event than reported previously and several distinguishing characteristics of the murderer who subsequently commits suicide. Two primary types, from the perspective of ego fusion, are discussed.", "contents": "Dyadic death: murder-suicide. Twenty homicide-suicides, drawn from death records of three major eastern United States cities, were analyzed in comparison to prior studies and samples of homicide offenders and suicide victims. Results indicated a lower incidence for this event than reported previously and several distinguishing characteristics of the murderer who subsequently commits suicide. Two primary types, from the perspective of ego fusion, are discussed.", "PMID": 432903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1346", "title": "Suicide attempts among drug abusers.", "content": "The relationship between substance abuse and suicide is indicated by the high rate of attempted suicide among alcoholics and drug abusers as well as the increased likelihood of repeated attempts in these populations. This study reports on the psychological characteristics of male drug suicide attempters who are in treatment for their addiction problem. Data collected from 166 veterans included background information, symptoms, mood, social functioning, and attitude measures. Of the drug abuse patients, 26 percent reported having made a suicide attempt. These subjects were found to be significantly more depressed, angry, insecure, and anxious than the nonsuicide-attempt drug abusers. Treatment staff need to be sensitized to the possibility of repeated suicide attempts among substance abuse patients.", "contents": "Suicide attempts among drug abusers. The relationship between substance abuse and suicide is indicated by the high rate of attempted suicide among alcoholics and drug abusers as well as the increased likelihood of repeated attempts in these populations. This study reports on the psychological characteristics of male drug suicide attempters who are in treatment for their addiction problem. Data collected from 166 veterans included background information, symptoms, mood, social functioning, and attitude measures. Of the drug abuse patients, 26 percent reported having made a suicide attempt. These subjects were found to be significantly more depressed, angry, insecure, and anxious than the nonsuicide-attempt drug abusers. Treatment staff need to be sensitized to the possibility of repeated suicide attempts among substance abuse patients.", "PMID": 432904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1347", "title": "Brain edema and blood-brain barrier permeability following quantitative cerebral microembolism.", "content": "Cerebral microemboli were formed in rats by injecting 4,000 carbonized microspheres, 50 +/- 10 mu in diameter, labelled with 85Sr, into the internal carotid artery. The use of radioactive microspheres as embolic agents enabled the number of microspheres to be determined in each cerebral hemisphere. The microspheres were mainly distributed in the cerebral hemisphere on the side of the injection. In 61 rats this hemisphere contained 582 +/- 20 microspheres against 99 +/- 9 in the contralateral hemisphere. Brain edema was assessed by measuring brain content of water, sodium and potassium. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability was determined by brain accumulation of 125I-albumin. In the ipsilateral hemisphere brain edema and an increase in BBB permeability appeared 6 hours after embolization and progressed up to 48 hours. Twenty-four hours after embolization, significant correlations were observed between the microsphere content of the cerebral hemispheres and 1) the increases in water and sodium levels, 2) the decrease in potassium level, 3) the increase in BBB permeability. The study of these correlations should make it possible to ignore the poor reproducibility of embolizations and to analyze with increased accuracy the results of various experiments.", "contents": "Brain edema and blood-brain barrier permeability following quantitative cerebral microembolism. Cerebral microemboli were formed in rats by injecting 4,000 carbonized microspheres, 50 +/- 10 mu in diameter, labelled with 85Sr, into the internal carotid artery. The use of radioactive microspheres as embolic agents enabled the number of microspheres to be determined in each cerebral hemisphere. The microspheres were mainly distributed in the cerebral hemisphere on the side of the injection. In 61 rats this hemisphere contained 582 +/- 20 microspheres against 99 +/- 9 in the contralateral hemisphere. Brain edema was assessed by measuring brain content of water, sodium and potassium. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability was determined by brain accumulation of 125I-albumin. In the ipsilateral hemisphere brain edema and an increase in BBB permeability appeared 6 hours after embolization and progressed up to 48 hours. Twenty-four hours after embolization, significant correlations were observed between the microsphere content of the cerebral hemispheres and 1) the increases in water and sodium levels, 2) the decrease in potassium level, 3) the increase in BBB permeability. The study of these correlations should make it possible to ignore the poor reproducibility of embolizations and to analyze with increased accuracy the results of various experiments.", "PMID": 432898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1348", "title": "Suicide in the 1970s: a second look.", "content": "The decade of the 70's has been reviewed with the document Suicide Prevention in the 70's serving as a guide. Twenty-one goals put forward in the report were reviewed in light of subsequent progress in the field. Although progress was noted on many fronts, four areas were outstanding in the sense that envisioned goals were met or exceeded. These involved the areas of promulgation of information about suicide, establishment of standards and certification procedures, development of regional organizations to forward training and program development, and education of the public to improve awareness of suicide as a public problem. This analysis also identified areas where little or no progress has been made. From this there developed four recommendations: 1. The funding and establishment of a national case file using a standard nomenclature and a standard data base to improve epidemiologic knowledge, and to provide pooled data appropriate for more sophisticated research analyses. 2. The establishment of a task force to study the application of program evaluation methods to suicide prevention efforts. 3. The development of new programs at local levels to try to reach known high-risk groups and to provide relevant programs of suicide prevention for them. 4. Making creative efforts toward elaboration of a comprehensive theory of life-threatening behavior and exploration of developmental corrolates of such behavior.", "contents": "Suicide in the 1970s: a second look. The decade of the 70's has been reviewed with the document Suicide Prevention in the 70's serving as a guide. Twenty-one goals put forward in the report were reviewed in light of subsequent progress in the field. Although progress was noted on many fronts, four areas were outstanding in the sense that envisioned goals were met or exceeded. These involved the areas of promulgation of information about suicide, establishment of standards and certification procedures, development of regional organizations to forward training and program development, and education of the public to improve awareness of suicide as a public problem. This analysis also identified areas where little or no progress has been made. From this there developed four recommendations: 1. The funding and establishment of a national case file using a standard nomenclature and a standard data base to improve epidemiologic knowledge, and to provide pooled data appropriate for more sophisticated research analyses. 2. The establishment of a task force to study the application of program evaluation methods to suicide prevention efforts. 3. The development of new programs at local levels to try to reach known high-risk groups and to provide relevant programs of suicide prevention for them. 4. Making creative efforts toward elaboration of a comprehensive theory of life-threatening behavior and exploration of developmental corrolates of such behavior.", "PMID": 432905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1349", "title": "Total cerebral ischemia: a new model system for the study of post-cardiac arrest brain damage.", "content": "The pathophysiology of post-cardiac arrest brain damage is not well understood. Many of the model systems presently used to study global ischemia have serious limitations. A new model system for total cerebral ischemia (TCI), using aortic and inferior vena caval occlusion balloons, is described. This model system produces verifiable TCI and avoids surgical invasion of the thorax or the use of vasoactive drugs. It does not impede cerebral venous return and protects the cardiopulmonary system from damage. This model system can be used to study the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions following a standardized CNS global ischemic insult.", "contents": "Total cerebral ischemia: a new model system for the study of post-cardiac arrest brain damage. The pathophysiology of post-cardiac arrest brain damage is not well understood. Many of the model systems presently used to study global ischemia have serious limitations. A new model system for total cerebral ischemia (TCI), using aortic and inferior vena caval occlusion balloons, is described. This model system produces verifiable TCI and avoids surgical invasion of the thorax or the use of vasoactive drugs. It does not impede cerebral venous return and protects the cardiopulmonary system from damage. This model system can be used to study the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions following a standardized CNS global ischemic insult.", "PMID": 432899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1350", "title": "The working through of patients' suicides by four therapists.", "content": "In 1976 four psychotherapists in training at one institution had patients who committed suicide. The therapists met as a group over a one-year period. This paper presents brief case summaries, explores the reactions of each therapist, presents conclusions regarding the mourning process following patients' suicides, and puts forth implications and suggestions for training programs. The authors conclude that it is necessary for therapists, supervisors, and training programs to recognize the inevitability of crises and tragedies when working with disturbed persons and that, though the process of mourning must be worked through individually, training settings can permit therapists to experience the pain and loneliness while providing opportunities for mastery and growth.", "contents": "The working through of patients' suicides by four therapists. In 1976 four psychotherapists in training at one institution had patients who committed suicide. The therapists met as a group over a one-year period. This paper presents brief case summaries, explores the reactions of each therapist, presents conclusions regarding the mourning process following patients' suicides, and puts forth implications and suggestions for training programs. The authors conclude that it is necessary for therapists, supervisors, and training programs to recognize the inevitability of crises and tragedies when working with disturbed persons and that, though the process of mourning must be worked through individually, training settings can permit therapists to experience the pain and loneliness while providing opportunities for mastery and growth.", "PMID": 432906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1351", "title": "Pathophysiological mechanisms of brain edema development: role of tissue factors.", "content": "In experiments carried out on adult rabbit \"chest-head\" preparations the volume changes of the exposed brain (BrV) were determined in repeated tests during a controlled increase of the systemic venous pressure (SVP) of about 13 mm Hg. The changes of both SVP and BrV were usually parallel at the onset of the experiments, but when the brains became preedematous hysteresis appeared in the plots of their relationships. The hysteresis increased gradually (sometimes with periods of partial decrease) thus indicating a delay in the draining of blood from the brain's venous system and in the removal of excess extracellular fluid from the cebral tissue. Evidence for water filtration through the capillary walls during increase of the SVP, and, thus, of brain intravascular pressure, was obtained by detecting the dynamics of [Na+] and [K+] in the extracellular fluid of the cerebral cortex by ion-selective electrodes. This process appeared reversible in normal brains while in the preedematous ones the excessive water filtration resulted in brain edema. The preedematous state of the brain is believed to be caused by changes of the mechanical properties of brain tissue and/or by changes in osmolarity.", "contents": "Pathophysiological mechanisms of brain edema development: role of tissue factors. In experiments carried out on adult rabbit \"chest-head\" preparations the volume changes of the exposed brain (BrV) were determined in repeated tests during a controlled increase of the systemic venous pressure (SVP) of about 13 mm Hg. The changes of both SVP and BrV were usually parallel at the onset of the experiments, but when the brains became preedematous hysteresis appeared in the plots of their relationships. The hysteresis increased gradually (sometimes with periods of partial decrease) thus indicating a delay in the draining of blood from the brain's venous system and in the removal of excess extracellular fluid from the cebral tissue. Evidence for water filtration through the capillary walls during increase of the SVP, and, thus, of brain intravascular pressure, was obtained by detecting the dynamics of [Na+] and [K+] in the extracellular fluid of the cerebral cortex by ion-selective electrodes. This process appeared reversible in normal brains while in the preedematous ones the excessive water filtration resulted in brain edema. The preedematous state of the brain is believed to be caused by changes of the mechanical properties of brain tissue and/or by changes in osmolarity.", "PMID": 432900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1352", "title": "Starting a therapy group in a suicide prevention and crisis center.", "content": "This report outlines the experience of one center in establishing a group therapy program, discussing the \"readiness\" of the center, reservations of the governing board, qualifications and number of group leaders, composition of the group, time-place-duration of meetings, \"open\" versus \"closed\" structure, vagaries of obtaining participants, integration with the 24-hour telephone crisis service, problems of confidentiality, and dealing with the suicide of a group member.", "contents": "Starting a therapy group in a suicide prevention and crisis center. This report outlines the experience of one center in establishing a group therapy program, discussing the \"readiness\" of the center, reservations of the governing board, qualifications and number of group leaders, composition of the group, time-place-duration of meetings, \"open\" versus \"closed\" structure, vagaries of obtaining participants, integration with the 24-hour telephone crisis service, problems of confidentiality, and dealing with the suicide of a group member.", "PMID": 432907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1353", "title": "Antibodies that define NANA-independent MN-system antigens.", "content": "The hemagglutinating properties of a large proportion of anti-M and anti-N reagents, and sera containing antibodies to MN-related antigens, have been shown to be unaffected by treatment of red blood cells with neuraminidase. These antibodies, which define NANA-independent MN-system structures, provide further evidence that MN blood group specificity may also be determined by moieties other than N-acetylneuraminic acid.", "contents": "Antibodies that define NANA-independent MN-system antigens. The hemagglutinating properties of a large proportion of anti-M and anti-N reagents, and sera containing antibodies to MN-related antigens, have been shown to be unaffected by treatment of red blood cells with neuraminidase. These antibodies, which define NANA-independent MN-system structures, provide further evidence that MN blood group specificity may also be determined by moieties other than N-acetylneuraminic acid.", "PMID": 432908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1354", "title": "Pedi-pack transfusion in a newborn intensive care unit.", "content": "Two hundred and ninety-one transfusions using 221 pediatric frozen red blood cell packs (Pedi-Packs) were given to 141 newborn babies and infants in the newborn intensive care unit. In 18 patients, 47 transfusions were studied for transfusion and clinical characteristics. Two possible hemolytic episodes are described in detail and remain unexplained. Blood loss for laboratory tests was found to average 3.1 ml/kg per day spent in the newborn intensive care unit. The rise in hematocrit was found to be excellent. Overall, the transfusion of thawed pediatric red blood cell packs was found to be convenient, safe and effective. Because of pretesting possibilities with the use of this source of red blood cells, one of the problems associated with a walking donor program is eliminated.", "contents": "Pedi-pack transfusion in a newborn intensive care unit. Two hundred and ninety-one transfusions using 221 pediatric frozen red blood cell packs (Pedi-Packs) were given to 141 newborn babies and infants in the newborn intensive care unit. In 18 patients, 47 transfusions were studied for transfusion and clinical characteristics. Two possible hemolytic episodes are described in detail and remain unexplained. Blood loss for laboratory tests was found to average 3.1 ml/kg per day spent in the newborn intensive care unit. The rise in hematocrit was found to be excellent. Overall, the transfusion of thawed pediatric red blood cell packs was found to be convenient, safe and effective. Because of pretesting possibilities with the use of this source of red blood cells, one of the problems associated with a walking donor program is eliminated.", "PMID": 432909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1355", "title": "Hemophilia: cost consideration for prescribing therapeutic materials.", "content": "Costs for therapeutic products utilized in treating hemophilia can be prohibitive to patients. The costs can be effectively reduced by understanding the elements comprising the total cost of these products. By calculating appropriate dosage schedules, avoiding indiscriminate purchasing practices, and monitoring costs to patients, physicians can help reduce the total financial burden to patients and third party payers.", "contents": "Hemophilia: cost consideration for prescribing therapeutic materials. Costs for therapeutic products utilized in treating hemophilia can be prohibitive to patients. The costs can be effectively reduced by understanding the elements comprising the total cost of these products. By calculating appropriate dosage schedules, avoiding indiscriminate purchasing practices, and monitoring costs to patients, physicians can help reduce the total financial burden to patients and third party payers.", "PMID": 432912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1356", "title": "Ultrasonic purification of Bridge anticoagulant neutralizing agent (BANA) and a study on its effect on factor VIII inhibitor.", "content": "Ether precipitation of globulins from the supernatant fraction of prothrombin complex concentrate, followed by adsorption on tricalcium phosphate and elution gives a beta2 fraction termed Bridge anticoagulant neutralizing agent (BANA). Although this is completely free of all known blood clotting factors, it improves recalcification time, PTT and thromboplastin generation of hemophilic plasma. It also counteracts the effect of factor VIII inhibitor. Ultrasonic elution produced more activity per mg N than did citrate elution. The possibility is discussed of incorporating BANA preparation in the routine fractionation of plasms without reduction in the yield of factor VIII or prothrombin comples concentrate.", "contents": "Ultrasonic purification of Bridge anticoagulant neutralizing agent (BANA) and a study on its effect on factor VIII inhibitor. Ether precipitation of globulins from the supernatant fraction of prothrombin complex concentrate, followed by adsorption on tricalcium phosphate and elution gives a beta2 fraction termed Bridge anticoagulant neutralizing agent (BANA). Although this is completely free of all known blood clotting factors, it improves recalcification time, PTT and thromboplastin generation of hemophilic plasma. It also counteracts the effect of factor VIII inhibitor. Ultrasonic elution produced more activity per mg N than did citrate elution. The possibility is discussed of incorporating BANA preparation in the routine fractionation of plasms without reduction in the yield of factor VIII or prothrombin comples concentrate.", "PMID": 432913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1357", "title": "Characteristics of stored granulocytes collected from donors stimulated with dexamethasone.", "content": "Two hours after normal donors were given intravenous dexamethasone, their leukocytes were collected by intermittent flow centrifugation. Neutrophils were tested immediately after collection and following storage at 4 to 6 C for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Tests included total leukocyte and absolute neutrophil counts, plasma glucose concentrations, the percentage of phagocytic neutrophils, the ability of phagocytes to accumulate particles, candidacidal activity, bactericidal capacity and chemotaxis. Total leukocyte and absolute neutrophil counts in the stored suspensions were decreased after 48 hours (p = .005). Plasma glucose levels in the suspensions declined at first, then stabilized at 48 hours of storage probably because of loss of cellular integrity. Chemotaxis, candidacidal activity, phagocytosis and dye exclusion showed statistically significant decreases at 24 hours. Chemotaxis deteriorated rapidly, with a mean 63 per cent functional loss at 48 hours. We conclude that treatment of donors with dexamethasone does not extend the storage limits of granulocyte concentrates used for clinical transfusions. Based on these and our previous observations, unless the storage changes should be shown to be reversible, granulocyte concentrates should probably not be stored more than 24 hours before transfusion.", "contents": "Characteristics of stored granulocytes collected from donors stimulated with dexamethasone. Two hours after normal donors were given intravenous dexamethasone, their leukocytes were collected by intermittent flow centrifugation. Neutrophils were tested immediately after collection and following storage at 4 to 6 C for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Tests included total leukocyte and absolute neutrophil counts, plasma glucose concentrations, the percentage of phagocytic neutrophils, the ability of phagocytes to accumulate particles, candidacidal activity, bactericidal capacity and chemotaxis. Total leukocyte and absolute neutrophil counts in the stored suspensions were decreased after 48 hours (p = .005). Plasma glucose levels in the suspensions declined at first, then stabilized at 48 hours of storage probably because of loss of cellular integrity. Chemotaxis, candidacidal activity, phagocytosis and dye exclusion showed statistically significant decreases at 24 hours. Chemotaxis deteriorated rapidly, with a mean 63 per cent functional loss at 48 hours. We conclude that treatment of donors with dexamethasone does not extend the storage limits of granulocyte concentrates used for clinical transfusions. Based on these and our previous observations, unless the storage changes should be shown to be reversible, granulocyte concentrates should probably not be stored more than 24 hours before transfusion.", "PMID": 432911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1358", "title": "Platelet behavior in extracorporeal circulation (ECC).", "content": "Compatibility of blood with nonphysiologic materials is of increasing importance. The basis of estimating such compatibility has shifted from the determination of hemolysis to the estimation of the clotting capacity. This can be specified in terms of number and function of curculating thrombocytes and the resulting bleeding time. In this study components of commonly used standard equipment for open heart surgery have been compared to alternatives. The parameters studied yeild more relevant information for ranking materials in relation to their blood compatibility than does estimation of hemolysis alone. The behavior of the thrombocytes showed an initial dip (acute aggregation phenomenon), a plateau (equilibrium between aggregation and desaggregation) and a secondary dip (elimination of irreversibly damaged cells). Correlated to criteria of major hematological differences as observed between membrane-oxygenators and bubble-oxygenators, the percentage of circulating thrombocytes at the moment of the secondary dip gives the best overall information about hemocompatibility.", "contents": "Platelet behavior in extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Compatibility of blood with nonphysiologic materials is of increasing importance. The basis of estimating such compatibility has shifted from the determination of hemolysis to the estimation of the clotting capacity. This can be specified in terms of number and function of curculating thrombocytes and the resulting bleeding time. In this study components of commonly used standard equipment for open heart surgery have been compared to alternatives. The parameters studied yeild more relevant information for ranking materials in relation to their blood compatibility than does estimation of hemolysis alone. The behavior of the thrombocytes showed an initial dip (acute aggregation phenomenon), a plateau (equilibrium between aggregation and desaggregation) and a secondary dip (elimination of irreversibly damaged cells). Correlated to criteria of major hematological differences as observed between membrane-oxygenators and bubble-oxygenators, the percentage of circulating thrombocytes at the moment of the secondary dip gives the best overall information about hemocompatibility.", "PMID": 432915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1359", "title": "Plasma adenine and cellular ATP in red cell concentrates collected and stored in modified CPD at 4 C.", "content": "Eight units of blood were drawn into modified CPD containing 25 per cent higher glucose and 17.3 mg adenine (0.25 mM in blood). Red blood cell concentrates (RCC) were prepared to a mean hematocrit (Hct) of 70, the cells stored at 4 C, and plasma adenine and red blood cell adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were measured weekly for 42 days. The removal of plasma in the preparation of RCC reduced by 39 per cent the available adenine. As a result measurable plasma adenine was depleted by 21 days. The loss of ATP in RCC occurs at a significantly faster rate than in whole blood stored under the same conditions. When red blood cells are stored at higher HCT or for periods longer than 35 days, increased anticoagulant adenine levels are recommended.", "contents": "Plasma adenine and cellular ATP in red cell concentrates collected and stored in modified CPD at 4 C. Eight units of blood were drawn into modified CPD containing 25 per cent higher glucose and 17.3 mg adenine (0.25 mM in blood). Red blood cell concentrates (RCC) were prepared to a mean hematocrit (Hct) of 70, the cells stored at 4 C, and plasma adenine and red blood cell adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were measured weekly for 42 days. The removal of plasma in the preparation of RCC reduced by 39 per cent the available adenine. As a result measurable plasma adenine was depleted by 21 days. The loss of ATP in RCC occurs at a significantly faster rate than in whole blood stored under the same conditions. When red blood cells are stored at higher HCT or for periods longer than 35 days, increased anticoagulant adenine levels are recommended.", "PMID": 432914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1360", "title": "The effects of temperature variations on cryoprecipitate.", "content": "The effect of temperature on Factor VIII levels in blood and cryoprecipitate was assessed. Freshw collected units of blood required several hours to reach 4 C, but this delay seemed of little importance since equal amounts of cryoprecipitated Factor VIII were recovered from blood stored either at 22 C or at 4 C. Freezing at -80, -60, or -40 C produced identical yields of Factor VIII, whereas freezing at -20 C resulted in significantly lower recoveries. This might be expected if one considers the physiochemical changes that occur during the freezing process.", "contents": "The effects of temperature variations on cryoprecipitate. The effect of temperature on Factor VIII levels in blood and cryoprecipitate was assessed. Freshw collected units of blood required several hours to reach 4 C, but this delay seemed of little importance since equal amounts of cryoprecipitated Factor VIII were recovered from blood stored either at 22 C or at 4 C. Freezing at -80, -60, or -40 C produced identical yields of Factor VIII, whereas freezing at -20 C resulted in significantly lower recoveries. This might be expected if one considers the physiochemical changes that occur during the freezing process.", "PMID": 432917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1361", "title": "Lack of predictive value of antileukocyte antibody screening in granulocyte transfusion therapy.", "content": "To clarify the relationship between recipient presensitization and response to granulocyte (PMN) transfusion, we tested 187 non-HL-A matched donor-recipient pairs for the presence of antileukocyte antibody using granulocytotoxicity (G), lymphocytotoxicity (L), microleukoagglutination (M), and capillary leukoagglutination (C) assays. PMN increments per 10(11) transfused PMNs per square meter of body surface area, ascertained one hour following termination of transfusion, and the occurrence of nonhemolytic transfusion reactions, were correlated with the assay results. Although circulating anti-donor-leukocyte antibody was detected in 52 per cent of recipients, there was no statistically significant relationship between the presence of these antibodies and either PMN recovery or incidence of transfusion reaction. We conclude that the prospective use of these assays is of little value in predicting the recipient's response to PMN transfusion.", "contents": "Lack of predictive value of antileukocyte antibody screening in granulocyte transfusion therapy. To clarify the relationship between recipient presensitization and response to granulocyte (PMN) transfusion, we tested 187 non-HL-A matched donor-recipient pairs for the presence of antileukocyte antibody using granulocytotoxicity (G), lymphocytotoxicity (L), microleukoagglutination (M), and capillary leukoagglutination (C) assays. PMN increments per 10(11) transfused PMNs per square meter of body surface area, ascertained one hour following termination of transfusion, and the occurrence of nonhemolytic transfusion reactions, were correlated with the assay results. Although circulating anti-donor-leukocyte antibody was detected in 52 per cent of recipients, there was no statistically significant relationship between the presence of these antibodies and either PMN recovery or incidence of transfusion reaction. We conclude that the prospective use of these assays is of little value in predicting the recipient's response to PMN transfusion.", "PMID": 432918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1362", "title": "Experience with an albumin-enhanced, 15-minute incubation, emergency crossmatch.", "content": "During a 40-month period, an emergency crossmatch procedure using an albumin-enhanced 15 minute incubation indirect antiglobulin technique was evaluated along with a standard procedure for 2,276 patients involving 6,423 units of blood. One hundred-forty unsuspected allo-antibodies were detected during this study, of which 130 were detected by both techniques. In five instances where antibodies were not detected by the emergency technique, the antibodies were not though to be clinically significant.", "contents": "Experience with an albumin-enhanced, 15-minute incubation, emergency crossmatch. During a 40-month period, an emergency crossmatch procedure using an albumin-enhanced 15 minute incubation indirect antiglobulin technique was evaluated along with a standard procedure for 2,276 patients involving 6,423 units of blood. One hundred-forty unsuspected allo-antibodies were detected during this study, of which 130 were detected by both techniques. In five instances where antibodies were not detected by the emergency technique, the antibodies were not though to be clinically significant.", "PMID": 432919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1363", "title": "The effects of red blood cell suspending media on hemagglutination and the antiglobulin test.", "content": "Evaluation of the effects of four suspending media for test cells in antibody detection and identification is reported. The media under investigation are normal saline, low ionic strength salt solution, 22% bovine albumin and polymerized albumin. Hemagglutination at 37 C was enhanced in the test systems employing polymerized albumin. With shortened incubation times, the antiglobulin test was enhanced in tests against red blood cells suspended in the low ionic strength salt solution. When incubation times were extended to 30 minutes, all suspending media were apparently equally effective.", "contents": "The effects of red blood cell suspending media on hemagglutination and the antiglobulin test. Evaluation of the effects of four suspending media for test cells in antibody detection and identification is reported. The media under investigation are normal saline, low ionic strength salt solution, 22% bovine albumin and polymerized albumin. Hemagglutination at 37 C was enhanced in the test systems employing polymerized albumin. With shortened incubation times, the antiglobulin test was enhanced in tests against red blood cells suspended in the low ionic strength salt solution. When incubation times were extended to 30 minutes, all suspending media were apparently equally effective.", "PMID": 432916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1364", "title": "The use of an oxygen dissociation curve analyzer in transfusion therapy.", "content": "Two automatic apparatuses utilizing a dual wave-length spectrophotometric method were developed to perform oxygen dissociation curves on microsamples of blood. This method provides a complete printout of an oxygen dissociation curve in 15 to 20 minutes and the P50 values obtained agree closely with those obtained by classical methods. This technique was used as part of a routine clinical evaluation in assessing oxygen delivery in anemic patients. These apparatuses allowed identification of patients with well-compensated anemia, patients with no compensatory decrease in oxygen affinity, and several patients with a paradoxical increase in oxygen affinity. Knowledge of the oxygen-releasing capacity of the blood permits a more thorough evaluation of oxygen transport in anemic patients than the hemoglobin level and a more precise assessment of the need for transfusion therapy. The ready availability of an oxygen dissociation curve by this method is feasible for routine clinical evaluation and permits more judicious use of blood products.", "contents": "The use of an oxygen dissociation curve analyzer in transfusion therapy. Two automatic apparatuses utilizing a dual wave-length spectrophotometric method were developed to perform oxygen dissociation curves on microsamples of blood. This method provides a complete printout of an oxygen dissociation curve in 15 to 20 minutes and the P50 values obtained agree closely with those obtained by classical methods. This technique was used as part of a routine clinical evaluation in assessing oxygen delivery in anemic patients. These apparatuses allowed identification of patients with well-compensated anemia, patients with no compensatory decrease in oxygen affinity, and several patients with a paradoxical increase in oxygen affinity. Knowledge of the oxygen-releasing capacity of the blood permits a more thorough evaluation of oxygen transport in anemic patients than the hemoglobin level and a more precise assessment of the need for transfusion therapy. The ready availability of an oxygen dissociation curve by this method is feasible for routine clinical evaluation and permits more judicious use of blood products.", "PMID": 432921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1365", "title": "Studies on platelets contained in eluates following filtration leukapheresis.", "content": "Platelets eluted from nylon fiber filters after filtration leukapheresis have been studied. The platelet yield from 61 routine donations was 1.25 +/- 0.18 x 10(11), (mean +/- SEM) corresponding to 1.78 x 10(10) per 500 ml blood processed. Filtered platelets labeled with radiochromate demonstrated reduced recovery in vivo 15 minutes after infusion (38.5 +/- 1.7%) when compared to the control value (68.5 +/- 6.8, p less than 0.001). The survival of those platelets remaining in the circulation after 15 minutes did not however differ from the control value. ADP (10 micrometer, 1 mM), adrenaline (100 micrometer) and collagen (7.25 mg/ml) added in vitro induced less aggregation of filtered platelets than normal control platelets and electron microscopy revealed structural abnormalities. It is concluded that recipients of granulocyte transfusions obtained by filtration leukapheresis are unlikely to be benefited by the platelets contained in these transfusions.", "contents": "Studies on platelets contained in eluates following filtration leukapheresis. Platelets eluted from nylon fiber filters after filtration leukapheresis have been studied. The platelet yield from 61 routine donations was 1.25 +/- 0.18 x 10(11), (mean +/- SEM) corresponding to 1.78 x 10(10) per 500 ml blood processed. Filtered platelets labeled with radiochromate demonstrated reduced recovery in vivo 15 minutes after infusion (38.5 +/- 1.7%) when compared to the control value (68.5 +/- 6.8, p less than 0.001). The survival of those platelets remaining in the circulation after 15 minutes did not however differ from the control value. ADP (10 micrometer, 1 mM), adrenaline (100 micrometer) and collagen (7.25 mg/ml) added in vitro induced less aggregation of filtered platelets than normal control platelets and electron microscopy revealed structural abnormalities. It is concluded that recipients of granulocyte transfusions obtained by filtration leukapheresis are unlikely to be benefited by the platelets contained in these transfusions.", "PMID": 432922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1366", "title": "Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) accumulation in whole blood and red cell concentrates.", "content": "Plasma DEHP concentrations were measured weekly in whole blood and red cell concentrates (RCC) during 21 days of storage in standard CPD within PL-130 blood bags. In addition, DEHP and MEHP accumulation patterns were investigated in blood stored for 42 days in modified CPD with adenine within PL-146 and BB-69 storage containers. Total per-unit plasma DEHP of RCC units was 49 to 71 per cent of the total in plasma of whole blood units (PL-130). From 28 to 42 days, mean DEHP levels were 12 to 19 per cent higher in whole blood stored in PL-146 than in BB-69. Although MEHP was not found in any blood bag plastic, MEHP accumulated in plasma during whole blood storage. MEHP concentrations were 2.8 to 3.8 times higher in plasma stored in BB-69 than in PL-146. It is postulated that MEHP arises from hydrolysis of DEHP by plasma lipase, even in frozen plasma sample, and that the rate of this reaction is influenced by blood bag plastic surface characteristics.", "contents": "Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) accumulation in whole blood and red cell concentrates. Plasma DEHP concentrations were measured weekly in whole blood and red cell concentrates (RCC) during 21 days of storage in standard CPD within PL-130 blood bags. In addition, DEHP and MEHP accumulation patterns were investigated in blood stored for 42 days in modified CPD with adenine within PL-146 and BB-69 storage containers. Total per-unit plasma DEHP of RCC units was 49 to 71 per cent of the total in plasma of whole blood units (PL-130). From 28 to 42 days, mean DEHP levels were 12 to 19 per cent higher in whole blood stored in PL-146 than in BB-69. Although MEHP was not found in any blood bag plastic, MEHP accumulated in plasma during whole blood storage. MEHP concentrations were 2.8 to 3.8 times higher in plasma stored in BB-69 than in PL-146. It is postulated that MEHP arises from hydrolysis of DEHP by plasma lipase, even in frozen plasma sample, and that the rate of this reaction is influenced by blood bag plastic surface characteristics.", "PMID": 432924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1367", "title": "Therapeutic plateletpheresis in thombocythemia.", "content": "Patients with myeloproliferative thrombocythemia have usually been managed with chemotherapy. Generally, removal of platelets from such patients has been performed intermittently to lower the platelet mass rapidly when neurologic or hemorrhagic complications were manifest or concurrently with the initiation of chemotherapy. A platelet count of 1,000,000/microliter or less was maintained by the use of repeated plateletpheresis over a period of three months in a patient with essential thrombocythemia, who had frequent syncopal episodes. A second patient with secondary thrombocytosis, who sustained two cerebrovascular accidents, underwent intermittent plateletpheresis over a 22-day period until her underlying disorder improved. It is concluded from the experience, combined with that of others, that plateletpheresis is not only a life-saving procedure in an acute episode but may also be used to maintain a lowered platelet count over a prolonged period in selected patients with primary thrombocythemia, in whom chemotherapy cannot be undertaken, and in symptomatic patients with secondary thrombocythemia.", "contents": "Therapeutic plateletpheresis in thombocythemia. Patients with myeloproliferative thrombocythemia have usually been managed with chemotherapy. Generally, removal of platelets from such patients has been performed intermittently to lower the platelet mass rapidly when neurologic or hemorrhagic complications were manifest or concurrently with the initiation of chemotherapy. A platelet count of 1,000,000/microliter or less was maintained by the use of repeated plateletpheresis over a period of three months in a patient with essential thrombocythemia, who had frequent syncopal episodes. A second patient with secondary thrombocytosis, who sustained two cerebrovascular accidents, underwent intermittent plateletpheresis over a 22-day period until her underlying disorder improved. It is concluded from the experience, combined with that of others, that plateletpheresis is not only a life-saving procedure in an acute episode but may also be used to maintain a lowered platelet count over a prolonged period in selected patients with primary thrombocythemia, in whom chemotherapy cannot be undertaken, and in symptomatic patients with secondary thrombocythemia.", "PMID": 432925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1368", "title": "The effect of an educational program on transfusion practices in a regional blood program.", "content": "With the increased complexity of blood component therapy, it is important to be able to modify physician behavior with reliable educational programs. A standardized educational program on the use of red blood cells and whole blood was tested in 22 hospitals in a regional blood program using medical audit and computer monitoring to evaluate effectiveness. Most hospitals were eager to take advantage of the education program but were unwilling to use the audit-education cycle. At the same time, computer monitoring of indivisual hospital ordering and transfusion practices demonstrated an increased utilization of red blood cells in 64 per cent of hospitals with an overall improvement of 8 per cent. The improved use of red blood cells was appreciated within the month of the program and then sustained for six to twelve months at the new level.", "contents": "The effect of an educational program on transfusion practices in a regional blood program. With the increased complexity of blood component therapy, it is important to be able to modify physician behavior with reliable educational programs. A standardized educational program on the use of red blood cells and whole blood was tested in 22 hospitals in a regional blood program using medical audit and computer monitoring to evaluate effectiveness. Most hospitals were eager to take advantage of the education program but were unwilling to use the audit-education cycle. At the same time, computer monitoring of indivisual hospital ordering and transfusion practices demonstrated an increased utilization of red blood cells in 64 per cent of hospitals with an overall improvement of 8 per cent. The improved use of red blood cells was appreciated within the month of the program and then sustained for six to twelve months at the new level.", "PMID": 432926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1369", "title": "Technique for increased granulocyte recovery from human whole blood by counterflow centrifugation elutriation I. In vitro analyses.", "content": "Human granulocytes were isolated from 120 ml of whole blood by a modified counterflow centrifugation-elutriation (CCE) technique. Overall recovery of isolated granulocytes averaged 2.82 +/- 0.25 x 10(8) cells or 77 per cent yield from whole blood with 96 per cent granulocyte purity and 4 per cent mononuclear leukocytes. The granulocyte fraction was assayed in vitro to determine chemotactic response, stimulated oxygen consumption in the presence of latex beads, bactericidal capacity, and enzyme activities. Cellular integrity was determined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as by cell volume analysis. The data suggest that granulocytes isolated by CCE suffered no discernible loss of function or morphologic damage. The granulocytes are free of platelets and most mononuclear leukocytes and erythrocytes, and have not been exposed to sedimenting agents or surface adhesive agents such as dextran, nylon or glass wool.", "contents": "Technique for increased granulocyte recovery from human whole blood by counterflow centrifugation elutriation I. In vitro analyses. Human granulocytes were isolated from 120 ml of whole blood by a modified counterflow centrifugation-elutriation (CCE) technique. Overall recovery of isolated granulocytes averaged 2.82 +/- 0.25 x 10(8) cells or 77 per cent yield from whole blood with 96 per cent granulocyte purity and 4 per cent mononuclear leukocytes. The granulocyte fraction was assayed in vitro to determine chemotactic response, stimulated oxygen consumption in the presence of latex beads, bactericidal capacity, and enzyme activities. Cellular integrity was determined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as by cell volume analysis. The data suggest that granulocytes isolated by CCE suffered no discernible loss of function or morphologic damage. The granulocytes are free of platelets and most mononuclear leukocytes and erythrocytes, and have not been exposed to sedimenting agents or surface adhesive agents such as dextran, nylon or glass wool.", "PMID": 432923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1370", "title": "Red blood cell membrane storage lesion.", "content": "Storage of human erythrocytes in CPD produced a lesion of the erythrocyte membrane manifested by abnormal endocytosis in resealed ghosts and in intact erythrocytes. Endocytosis produced by resealing Ca, Mg, and ATP into ghosts was impaired by five weeks of storage and this defect was promptly reversed by the prior regeneration of ATP in the stored erythrocytes. Drug-induced endocytosis was studied in intact stored erythrocytes. Vinblastine endocytosis was not affected by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was not affected by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was variably but never completely inhibited by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was variably but never completely inhibited by storage, and restoration of ATP occasionally resulted in complete restoration of chlorpromazine endocytosis to base line values. However, primaquine endocytosis was usually totally inhibited after three to four weeks of storage at a time when residual ATP levels were 30 to 50 per cent of base line values. Restoration of ATP levels to at least base line values did not completely primaquine endocytosis to control values. Study of primaquine endocytosis provides an opportunity for defining an erythrocyte membrane storage lesion.", "contents": "Red blood cell membrane storage lesion. Storage of human erythrocytes in CPD produced a lesion of the erythrocyte membrane manifested by abnormal endocytosis in resealed ghosts and in intact erythrocytes. Endocytosis produced by resealing Ca, Mg, and ATP into ghosts was impaired by five weeks of storage and this defect was promptly reversed by the prior regeneration of ATP in the stored erythrocytes. Drug-induced endocytosis was studied in intact stored erythrocytes. Vinblastine endocytosis was not affected by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was not affected by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was variably but never completely inhibited by storage. Chlorpromazine endocytosis was variably but never completely inhibited by storage, and restoration of ATP occasionally resulted in complete restoration of chlorpromazine endocytosis to base line values. However, primaquine endocytosis was usually totally inhibited after three to four weeks of storage at a time when residual ATP levels were 30 to 50 per cent of base line values. Restoration of ATP levels to at least base line values did not completely primaquine endocytosis to control values. Study of primaquine endocytosis provides an opportunity for defining an erythrocyte membrane storage lesion.", "PMID": 432927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1371", "title": "Phenotype i associated with congenital cataract in Japanese.", "content": "A Japanese family with two siblings of phenotype i is presented. Both had a past history of surgical treatment for congenital cataract. In Japan, 18 individuals of phenotype i, including our case, have been found in ten unrelated families. Seventeen of them had congenital cataract. Cataract was not found in any of the 45 phenotype I members in these families. It is briefly discussed why these two linked and quite rare genes were found in combination only in Japanese persons.", "contents": "Phenotype i associated with congenital cataract in Japanese. A Japanese family with two siblings of phenotype i is presented. Both had a past history of surgical treatment for congenital cataract. In Japan, 18 individuals of phenotype i, including our case, have been found in ten unrelated families. Seventeen of them had congenital cataract. Cataract was not found in any of the 45 phenotype I members in these families. It is briefly discussed why these two linked and quite rare genes were found in combination only in Japanese persons.", "PMID": 432928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1372", "title": "The effect of dexamethasone on platelet function.", "content": "To assess the effects of dexamethasone on platelet function, aggregation studies were performed on nine healthy adults before and after ingestion of a single dose of dexamethasone 10 mg, and on six patients receiving daily dexamethasone. Bleeding times were done on 14 volunteers before and after a similar drug dose. Platelet aggregation by ADP, epinephrine and collagen was unchanged after dexamethasone in the healthy subjects and aggregation curves in the patient group were comparable to the normals. Bleeding times were moderatley prolonged in women (from 284 +/- 58 seconds to 389 +/- 114 seconds) but not in men. This prolongation was much less pronounced than that which occurs with low doses of aspirin and no subject experienced delayed bleeding. Dexamethasone in single high doses probably does not cuase a clinically important effect on platelet function.", "contents": "The effect of dexamethasone on platelet function. To assess the effects of dexamethasone on platelet function, aggregation studies were performed on nine healthy adults before and after ingestion of a single dose of dexamethasone 10 mg, and on six patients receiving daily dexamethasone. Bleeding times were done on 14 volunteers before and after a similar drug dose. Platelet aggregation by ADP, epinephrine and collagen was unchanged after dexamethasone in the healthy subjects and aggregation curves in the patient group were comparable to the normals. Bleeding times were moderatley prolonged in women (from 284 +/- 58 seconds to 389 +/- 114 seconds) but not in men. This prolongation was much less pronounced than that which occurs with low doses of aspirin and no subject experienced delayed bleeding. Dexamethasone in single high doses probably does not cuase a clinically important effect on platelet function.", "PMID": 432929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1373", "title": "The effects of combined platelet and leukapheresis on the blood coagulation system.", "content": "Analysis of blood coagulation was done on samples of blood collected from ten donors undergoing combined platelet and leukapheresis using the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor. Blood samples were obtained from the donors prior to, during, and following pheresis. Blood was also obtained from the blood-return line after the first collection of leukocytes and platelets, but before it was returned to the donor. Although the citrate anticoagulant was returned to the donor and there were some decreases in the concentrations of fibrinogen, platelets, and factors V and VIII, there were no changes of sufficient degree to suggest that development of a potential bleeding disorder. In addition there was no evidence to suggest that any activation of blood coagulation occurred during the pheresis or that thrombogenic substances were returned to the donors. Combined platelet and leukapheresis using the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor, therefore, do not appear to subject the donor to risks for either bleeding or thrombotic complications.", "contents": "The effects of combined platelet and leukapheresis on the blood coagulation system. Analysis of blood coagulation was done on samples of blood collected from ten donors undergoing combined platelet and leukapheresis using the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor. Blood samples were obtained from the donors prior to, during, and following pheresis. Blood was also obtained from the blood-return line after the first collection of leukocytes and platelets, but before it was returned to the donor. Although the citrate anticoagulant was returned to the donor and there were some decreases in the concentrations of fibrinogen, platelets, and factors V and VIII, there were no changes of sufficient degree to suggest that development of a potential bleeding disorder. In addition there was no evidence to suggest that any activation of blood coagulation occurred during the pheresis or that thrombogenic substances were returned to the donors. Combined platelet and leukapheresis using the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor, therefore, do not appear to subject the donor to risks for either bleeding or thrombotic complications.", "PMID": 432930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1374", "title": "Coagulation factor activity in platelet concentrates.", "content": "Coagulation factor activity in platelet concentrates stored under different condtions was investigated. At both 22 C and 4 C, coagulation factors, II, VII, IX, X, XI, and XII and fibrinogen were well maintained up to 72 hours. Factor V activity declined slightly in platelet concentrates stored at 4 C (to 78% at 72 hours), but fell to 47 per cent activity in platelets stored at 22 C. Factor VIII activity declined to approximately 68 per cent of normal activity by 72 hours at both 22 C and 4 C. Agitation did not make a difference in levels of coagulation factors. While the decline in Factor V was clearly more pronounced in platelet concentrates than in platelet-poor plasma from the same units, the decline in Factor VIII was decreased by the presence of platelets. Platelet concentrates are a source of coagulation factor activity which should be considered in a component program.", "contents": "Coagulation factor activity in platelet concentrates. Coagulation factor activity in platelet concentrates stored under different condtions was investigated. At both 22 C and 4 C, coagulation factors, II, VII, IX, X, XI, and XII and fibrinogen were well maintained up to 72 hours. Factor V activity declined slightly in platelet concentrates stored at 4 C (to 78% at 72 hours), but fell to 47 per cent activity in platelets stored at 22 C. Factor VIII activity declined to approximately 68 per cent of normal activity by 72 hours at both 22 C and 4 C. Agitation did not make a difference in levels of coagulation factors. While the decline in Factor V was clearly more pronounced in platelet concentrates than in platelet-poor plasma from the same units, the decline in Factor VIII was decreased by the presence of platelets. Platelet concentrates are a source of coagulation factor activity which should be considered in a component program.", "PMID": 432931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1375", "title": "Macrophage-alloantibody-target cell interactions. II. Nonphagocytic effects.", "content": "Two nonphagocytic effects of macrophages on antibody-coated lymphocyte target cells were studied: antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and abrogation of complement lysis (ACL) by nonphagocytic mechanisms. Macrophages did not mediate ADCC, and actually inhibited K cell-mediated ADCC, presumably by direct interactions with the antibody-coated target cells. These interactions were studied in the ACL assay previously described, in which macrophages, antibody, and 51Cr-labelled target cells were incubated for 1 hr. Then complement lysis (as measured by 51Cr release) was performed to assess the status of the target cells. The nonphagocytic component of ACL could be distinguished from the phagocytic component by the addition of a second antibody during the complement lysis phase. This procedure revealed that some of the target cells which were resistant to the original antibody were susceptible to lysis by a second antibody and were therefore not phagocytized. Such cells had apparently been stripped of their antibody and the associated antigen by the macrophages. In support of this interpretation, specific antigen alterations were demonstrable on these stripped cells under certain conditions. These alterations were produced more consistently when the macrophages were less than maximally stimulated, and were detected better by guinea pig complement than by rabbit complement. The mechanism of stripping may involve inactivation, redistribution, or removal of target cell-bound antibody by the macrophages. Possible in vivo roles for the stripping mechanism, for example, in the enhancement of tumours or allografts, are discussed.", "contents": "Macrophage-alloantibody-target cell interactions. II. Nonphagocytic effects. Two nonphagocytic effects of macrophages on antibody-coated lymphocyte target cells were studied: antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and abrogation of complement lysis (ACL) by nonphagocytic mechanisms. Macrophages did not mediate ADCC, and actually inhibited K cell-mediated ADCC, presumably by direct interactions with the antibody-coated target cells. These interactions were studied in the ACL assay previously described, in which macrophages, antibody, and 51Cr-labelled target cells were incubated for 1 hr. Then complement lysis (as measured by 51Cr release) was performed to assess the status of the target cells. The nonphagocytic component of ACL could be distinguished from the phagocytic component by the addition of a second antibody during the complement lysis phase. This procedure revealed that some of the target cells which were resistant to the original antibody were susceptible to lysis by a second antibody and were therefore not phagocytized. Such cells had apparently been stripped of their antibody and the associated antigen by the macrophages. In support of this interpretation, specific antigen alterations were demonstrable on these stripped cells under certain conditions. These alterations were produced more consistently when the macrophages were less than maximally stimulated, and were detected better by guinea pig complement than by rabbit complement. The mechanism of stripping may involve inactivation, redistribution, or removal of target cell-bound antibody by the macrophages. Possible in vivo roles for the stripping mechanism, for example, in the enhancement of tumours or allografts, are discussed.", "PMID": 432938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1376", "title": "Platelet glycolysis in platelet storage I. The glycolytic enzymes.", "content": "Sixteen glycolytic enzymes were measured in essentially leukocyte-free platelets before storage and daily after room temperature storage or platelets as concentrates. Most of the glycolytic enzymes proved to be very stable to storage. Even the most severely affected enzymes, enolase, triosephosphate isomerase, and lactate dehydrogenase lost less than one-quarter of their enzyme activity. Depletion of glycolytic enzymes does not seem to be a major factor in the storage lesion of platelets.", "contents": "Platelet glycolysis in platelet storage I. The glycolytic enzymes. Sixteen glycolytic enzymes were measured in essentially leukocyte-free platelets before storage and daily after room temperature storage or platelets as concentrates. Most of the glycolytic enzymes proved to be very stable to storage. Even the most severely affected enzymes, enolase, triosephosphate isomerase, and lactate dehydrogenase lost less than one-quarter of their enzyme activity. Depletion of glycolytic enzymes does not seem to be a major factor in the storage lesion of platelets.", "PMID": 432932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1377", "title": "False positive and false negative reactions in HLA B-27 antigen testing.", "content": "The recent commercial availability of HLA B-27 antiserum now enables laboratories without prior experience in HLA typing to test for this antigen. False positive and false negative reactions frequently occur and require judicious interpretation. In our laboratory, 30 of 100 specimens were positive for B-27 and 70 were negative. Of the 30 positive, 10 (33%) failed to react against every antiserum tested. Twenty-nine of the 70 negative specimens (41%) reacted falsely with one or more B-27 antisera. A significant cause of false positive reactions was cross-reaction of the B-7 antigen with B-27 antisera (13 of 15 B-7 positive, B-27 negative specimens). For valid B-27 testing, use of more than one B-27 antiserum is included.", "contents": "False positive and false negative reactions in HLA B-27 antigen testing. The recent commercial availability of HLA B-27 antiserum now enables laboratories without prior experience in HLA typing to test for this antigen. False positive and false negative reactions frequently occur and require judicious interpretation. In our laboratory, 30 of 100 specimens were positive for B-27 and 70 were negative. Of the 30 positive, 10 (33%) failed to react against every antiserum tested. Twenty-nine of the 70 negative specimens (41%) reacted falsely with one or more B-27 antisera. A significant cause of false positive reactions was cross-reaction of the B-7 antigen with B-27 antisera (13 of 15 B-7 positive, B-27 negative specimens). For valid B-27 testing, use of more than one B-27 antiserum is included.", "PMID": 432934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1378", "title": "Combined platelet-leukapheresis: a technique for preparing separate platelet and granulocyte-platelet units from single donors.", "content": "One donor can provide separate platelet and granulocyte-platelet units that have the potential to fulfill the needs of two recipients. Combined platelet and leukapheresis were performed in the presence of hyddroxyethyl starch and citrate employing the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Separator. Platelets and granulocytes were separated subsequently by centrifugation and two individual units were prepared for transfusion. The platelet units contained a mean of 4.4 x 10(11) platelets/unit and were nearly devoid of leukocytes. The combined granulocyte-platelet units contained a mean of 7.38 x 10(9) neutrophils/unit and 3.06 x 10(11) platelets/unit. Thus two separate units containing sufficient numbers of cells for transfusion can be obtained from pheresis of one donor.", "contents": "Combined platelet-leukapheresis: a technique for preparing separate platelet and granulocyte-platelet units from single donors. One donor can provide separate platelet and granulocyte-platelet units that have the potential to fulfill the needs of two recipients. Combined platelet and leukapheresis were performed in the presence of hyddroxyethyl starch and citrate employing the Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Separator. Platelets and granulocytes were separated subsequently by centrifugation and two individual units were prepared for transfusion. The platelet units contained a mean of 4.4 x 10(11) platelets/unit and were nearly devoid of leukocytes. The combined granulocyte-platelet units contained a mean of 7.38 x 10(9) neutrophils/unit and 3.06 x 10(11) platelets/unit. Thus two separate units containing sufficient numbers of cells for transfusion can be obtained from pheresis of one donor.", "PMID": 432933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1379", "title": "Effects of steroid hormones on phytohemagglutinin-stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes.", "content": "The interactions of steroid hormones and human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) have been investigated following glass-wool column separation of PBLs and incubation in a serum-free medium in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Addition of hydrocortisone or progesterone above physiological concentrations resulted in inhibition of [14C]2-TdR incorporation. 17beta-Estradiol and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone inhibited [14C]2-TdR incorporation only at steroid concentrations thousands of times higher than the physiological concentrations. The kinetics of hydrocortisone and progesterone inhibition appeared to be similar and suggested that events occurring early after PHA addition were most sensitive to steroid inhibition and that addition of steroid at 28 hr, at the end of the early prereplicative phase of the cell cycle, inhibited DNA synthesis only at very high concentrations. The PHA-induced increase in RNA synthesis could be prevented by hydrocortisone addition even if delayed for up to 4 hr; morphological transformation was similarly affected. These data, and other investigations showing that progesterone binds to a specific glucocorticoid receptor in PBLs suggest that the progesterone inhibition of macromolecular synthesis in human PBLs is exerted via a glucocorticoid-like mechanism, and that glucocorticoid sensitivity is greatest during the early phases of lymphocyte activation. These results also provide a rationale for the apparent in vivo immunosuppressive capability of progesterone.", "contents": "Effects of steroid hormones on phytohemagglutinin-stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The interactions of steroid hormones and human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) have been investigated following glass-wool column separation of PBLs and incubation in a serum-free medium in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Addition of hydrocortisone or progesterone above physiological concentrations resulted in inhibition of [14C]2-TdR incorporation. 17beta-Estradiol and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone inhibited [14C]2-TdR incorporation only at steroid concentrations thousands of times higher than the physiological concentrations. The kinetics of hydrocortisone and progesterone inhibition appeared to be similar and suggested that events occurring early after PHA addition were most sensitive to steroid inhibition and that addition of steroid at 28 hr, at the end of the early prereplicative phase of the cell cycle, inhibited DNA synthesis only at very high concentrations. The PHA-induced increase in RNA synthesis could be prevented by hydrocortisone addition even if delayed for up to 4 hr; morphological transformation was similarly affected. These data, and other investigations showing that progesterone binds to a specific glucocorticoid receptor in PBLs suggest that the progesterone inhibition of macromolecular synthesis in human PBLs is exerted via a glucocorticoid-like mechanism, and that glucocorticoid sensitivity is greatest during the early phases of lymphocyte activation. These results also provide a rationale for the apparent in vivo immunosuppressive capability of progesterone.", "PMID": 432940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1380", "title": "Differential susceptibility of human peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations to mitogenic activation. Influence of methylprednisolone.", "content": "The inhibition of the mitogenic activation of human peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) subpopulations by methylprednisolone (MP) was dependent on the mitogen used. Purified human T cells were more sensitive to the effects of MP than were B cells or PBLs, especially when these cells were activated by pokeweed mitogen (PWM). MP did not function by inhibiting binding of mitogen to the cell surface. After being mitogenically activated, human lymphocytes were resistant to the effects of MP. These effects of MP were shown to be reversible. Monocytes did not provide a significant degree of protection to mitogenically activated human T cells incubated with MP. These data suggest that MP-induced inhibition of the mitogenic activation of human PBLs may be a reflection of lymphocyte heterogeneity, and that the differential sensitivity of PBLs to MP may be used to isolate functionally different subpopulations of these cells.", "contents": "Differential susceptibility of human peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations to mitogenic activation. Influence of methylprednisolone. The inhibition of the mitogenic activation of human peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) subpopulations by methylprednisolone (MP) was dependent on the mitogen used. Purified human T cells were more sensitive to the effects of MP than were B cells or PBLs, especially when these cells were activated by pokeweed mitogen (PWM). MP did not function by inhibiting binding of mitogen to the cell surface. After being mitogenically activated, human lymphocytes were resistant to the effects of MP. These effects of MP were shown to be reversible. Monocytes did not provide a significant degree of protection to mitogenically activated human T cells incubated with MP. These data suggest that MP-induced inhibition of the mitogenic activation of human PBLs may be a reflection of lymphocyte heterogeneity, and that the differential sensitivity of PBLs to MP may be used to isolate functionally different subpopulations of these cells.", "PMID": 432941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1381", "title": "In vitro generation of nonspecific suppressor cells and their characterization.", "content": "In vitro preculture of C3H/He splenocytes for 48 to 96 hr induces aspecific suppressor cells evaluated by their ability to reduce 3H-TdR uptake by fresh syngeneic splenocytes stimulated by different amounts of Concanavalin A (Con A) in vitro. This suppressive activity is obtained in medium containing 10% heat-inactivated fetal calf serum (FCS) or similar amounts of heat-inactivated bovine serum, syngeneic, or allogeneic murine sera but not by unheated FCS. Suppressive activity is resistant to mitomycin C and radiation up to 5,000 R. Exposure of precultured cells to carbonyl iron or plastic adherence, but not to anti-Thy 1.2 serum plus complement, results in removal of the suppressive activity.", "contents": "In vitro generation of nonspecific suppressor cells and their characterization. In vitro preculture of C3H/He splenocytes for 48 to 96 hr induces aspecific suppressor cells evaluated by their ability to reduce 3H-TdR uptake by fresh syngeneic splenocytes stimulated by different amounts of Concanavalin A (Con A) in vitro. This suppressive activity is obtained in medium containing 10% heat-inactivated fetal calf serum (FCS) or similar amounts of heat-inactivated bovine serum, syngeneic, or allogeneic murine sera but not by unheated FCS. Suppressive activity is resistant to mitomycin C and radiation up to 5,000 R. Exposure of precultured cells to carbonyl iron or plastic adherence, but not to anti-Thy 1.2 serum plus complement, results in removal of the suppressive activity.", "PMID": 432942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1382", "title": "Cell-mediated lymphocytotoxicity directed against HLA-D gene products.", "content": "Cytotoxic effector cells were generated in human mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLCs) between cell donors differing at the HLA-D/DR region but not at HLA-A,B(C). These cells killed Epstein-Barr virus-infected lymphoblasts (EBV blasts) from donors sharing the HLA-D/DR determinants with the normal MLC-stimulating cells, but not phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) lymphoblasts from the same donors. Because EBV blasts are derived from B cells and express HLA-D/DR antigens, the most likely interpretation of these findings is that the HLA-D/DR antigens may, by themselves, act as targets for cell-mediated cytotoxicity.", "contents": "Cell-mediated lymphocytotoxicity directed against HLA-D gene products. Cytotoxic effector cells were generated in human mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLCs) between cell donors differing at the HLA-D/DR region but not at HLA-A,B(C). These cells killed Epstein-Barr virus-infected lymphoblasts (EBV blasts) from donors sharing the HLA-D/DR determinants with the normal MLC-stimulating cells, but not phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) lymphoblasts from the same donors. Because EBV blasts are derived from B cells and express HLA-D/DR antigens, the most likely interpretation of these findings is that the HLA-D/DR antigens may, by themselves, act as targets for cell-mediated cytotoxicity.", "PMID": 432943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1383", "title": "[Distribution of chromosome material during division of giant nuclei by fragmentation in rodent trophoblast. Morphologic and cytophotometric study].", "content": "A study was made of a population of secondary giant cells (in the placenta of white rats and mice), of which a rather high polyploidy (128c--1024c) is characteristic, and which remains viable up to the end of pregnancy. At a certain stage of cell differentiation, some giant nuclei, looking as interphase nuclei, are divided into numerous smaller nuclear fragments bound with nuclear membranes. Two ways of division have been described: by a progressive budding of small nuclei into the cytoplasm, and the total division of the original nucleus into numerous tightly contracting nuclear fragments. Multinuclear cells originating from the nuclear fragmentation rather soon degenerate. The cytophotometrical measurement of the DNA amount in newly formed fragments has shown their ploidy extending from 1 to 32c, di-, three-, tetra-, and octoploid nuclei predominating. The distribution of chromosomal markers of the interphase nuclei (nucleoli, heterochromatinous blocks of nucleolus-forming chromosomes) confirms the photometrical evidence on the trends of chromosome fragmentation into genes. The fragmentation of the giant nucleus is preceded by a complex rearrangement of genetical material in the original nucleus, resulting in becoming polygenomal from polytene, with individual genomes separating to be segregated again, during division.", "contents": "[Distribution of chromosome material during division of giant nuclei by fragmentation in rodent trophoblast. Morphologic and cytophotometric study]. A study was made of a population of secondary giant cells (in the placenta of white rats and mice), of which a rather high polyploidy (128c--1024c) is characteristic, and which remains viable up to the end of pregnancy. At a certain stage of cell differentiation, some giant nuclei, looking as interphase nuclei, are divided into numerous smaller nuclear fragments bound with nuclear membranes. Two ways of division have been described: by a progressive budding of small nuclei into the cytoplasm, and the total division of the original nucleus into numerous tightly contracting nuclear fragments. Multinuclear cells originating from the nuclear fragmentation rather soon degenerate. The cytophotometrical measurement of the DNA amount in newly formed fragments has shown their ploidy extending from 1 to 32c, di-, three-, tetra-, and octoploid nuclei predominating. The distribution of chromosomal markers of the interphase nuclei (nucleoli, heterochromatinous blocks of nucleolus-forming chromosomes) confirms the photometrical evidence on the trends of chromosome fragmentation into genes. The fragmentation of the giant nucleus is preceded by a complex rearrangement of genetical material in the original nucleus, resulting in becoming polygenomal from polytene, with individual genomes separating to be segregated again, during division.", "PMID": 432947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1384", "title": "[Sorption of neutral red by actomyosin threads during contraction and heating].", "content": "Studies of the equilibrium distribution of the cation dye-neutral red by actomyosin threads allowed to establish the fact that different concentrations of dye reveal the existence of different bonds with contractile proteins. Firm bonds (7.3 ccal/M) are discovered at low dye concentrations, and weaker bonds (4.5 ccal/M) are seen at higher concentrations. The contraction of actomyosin threads evoked by ATP or heating is accompanied with similar changes, i. e. by the diminishing of the maximum dye sorption within the range of low dye concentrations and by the increase in the maximum dye sorption within the range of high concentrations.", "contents": "[Sorption of neutral red by actomyosin threads during contraction and heating]. Studies of the equilibrium distribution of the cation dye-neutral red by actomyosin threads allowed to establish the fact that different concentrations of dye reveal the existence of different bonds with contractile proteins. Firm bonds (7.3 ccal/M) are discovered at low dye concentrations, and weaker bonds (4.5 ccal/M) are seen at higher concentrations. The contraction of actomyosin threads evoked by ATP or heating is accompanied with similar changes, i. e. by the diminishing of the maximum dye sorption within the range of low dye concentrations and by the increase in the maximum dye sorption within the range of high concentrations.", "PMID": 432949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1385", "title": "[Method of determining the concentration of glycogen, DNA, 3H-thymidine label and dry weight in one and the same cell].", "content": "A method is proposed for determination of glycogen, DNA, 3H-thymidine incorporation and dry weight in the same cell, the technique being based on successive discovery and measuring of each of these indices. Cells are obtained from animals, previously injected with 3H-thymidine, to be charted on preparation, made pictures and measured in square units. Then on preparations embedded into glycerine or vaseline oil, the optical path difference of rays for the nucleus and cytoplasm of selected cells is measured with the interferencial microscope. This is followed by the fluorescent PAS reaction and the content of glycogen is registered microfluorimetrically in the same cells. Preparations after that are treated with a freshly prepared water solution of 0.025% borohydride sodium, stained with the routine or fluorescent Feulgen reaction, and DNA content is determined in the same cells in which glycogen and delta delta were previously measured. The stained nuclei are photographed, their areas are measured and the dry weight of the nucleus and cytoplasm of marked cells is calculated from the values of the nuclear areas and of delta delta. Eventually the preparations are covered by emulsion and exposed, and 3H-thymidine-containing nuclei are determined, the index of marked nuclei and the marking intensity over the nucleus are calculated. As a result, a precise and reliable determination of glycogen, DNA, dry weight and 3H- or 14C-thymidine incorporation is made in either of the marked cell.", "contents": "[Method of determining the concentration of glycogen, DNA, 3H-thymidine label and dry weight in one and the same cell]. A method is proposed for determination of glycogen, DNA, 3H-thymidine incorporation and dry weight in the same cell, the technique being based on successive discovery and measuring of each of these indices. Cells are obtained from animals, previously injected with 3H-thymidine, to be charted on preparation, made pictures and measured in square units. Then on preparations embedded into glycerine or vaseline oil, the optical path difference of rays for the nucleus and cytoplasm of selected cells is measured with the interferencial microscope. This is followed by the fluorescent PAS reaction and the content of glycogen is registered microfluorimetrically in the same cells. Preparations after that are treated with a freshly prepared water solution of 0.025% borohydride sodium, stained with the routine or fluorescent Feulgen reaction, and DNA content is determined in the same cells in which glycogen and delta delta were previously measured. The stained nuclei are photographed, their areas are measured and the dry weight of the nucleus and cytoplasm of marked cells is calculated from the values of the nuclear areas and of delta delta. Eventually the preparations are covered by emulsion and exposed, and 3H-thymidine-containing nuclei are determined, the index of marked nuclei and the marking intensity over the nucleus are calculated. As a result, a precise and reliable determination of glycogen, DNA, dry weight and 3H- or 14C-thymidine incorporation is made in either of the marked cell.", "PMID": 432950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1386", "title": "[Effect of cycloheximide, 2,4-dinitrophenol and papaverine on ribosomal RNA synthesis in Ehrlich ascitic carcinoma cells].", "content": "The influence of 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP), papaverine and cycloheximide on RNA synthesis in Ehrlich ascites tumour cells has been investigated. All above mentioned agents inhibit selectively synthesis of high-molecular rRNA precursor, when the cell population density is 3.10(7)--5.10(7) per 1 ml of suspension. When the density of cells decreases as far as 1.10(6) cells per 1 ml. the rRNA synthesis loses the sensitivity to all these agents. The effects of both cycloheximide on the protein synthesis and DNP on ATP level do not depend on the cell population density in suspension. It is suggested that either with a decrease of cell population density the protein synthesis and ATP level cease playing the role of a rate-limiting factor in the rRNA synthesis, or the influence of agents studied is realized by means of their interaction with other cell system.", "contents": "[Effect of cycloheximide, 2,4-dinitrophenol and papaverine on ribosomal RNA synthesis in Ehrlich ascitic carcinoma cells]. The influence of 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP), papaverine and cycloheximide on RNA synthesis in Ehrlich ascites tumour cells has been investigated. All above mentioned agents inhibit selectively synthesis of high-molecular rRNA precursor, when the cell population density is 3.10(7)--5.10(7) per 1 ml of suspension. When the density of cells decreases as far as 1.10(6) cells per 1 ml. the rRNA synthesis loses the sensitivity to all these agents. The effects of both cycloheximide on the protein synthesis and DNP on ATP level do not depend on the cell population density in suspension. It is suggested that either with a decrease of cell population density the protein synthesis and ATP level cease playing the role of a rate-limiting factor in the rRNA synthesis, or the influence of agents studied is realized by means of their interaction with other cell system.", "PMID": 432951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1387", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the ring-shaped nucleoli in the hepatocytes of chick embryos].", "content": "The fine structure of ring-shaped nucleoli in hepatocytes of chick embryos at different terms of development was studied. Structural differences were shown between annular nucleoli and nucleoli with typical nucleolonemal organization. Ring-shaped nucleoli, as a rule, are devoid of nucleolonemal structure and their fibrillar component is reduced. The material which fills the central cavity always appears similar to the nucleoplasm in its structure. On the basis of serial sections, we propose that central cavity is isolated from the nucleoplasm. From the hypotonical treatment and EDTA staining application it is concluded that the central cavity of ring-shaped nucleoli contains DNP associated with the intranucleolar chromatin. The number of these nucleoli increased after the injection of a liver homogenate cytoplasmic fraction extracted from adult hen. The physiological significance of such nucleoli is discussed.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the ring-shaped nucleoli in the hepatocytes of chick embryos]. The fine structure of ring-shaped nucleoli in hepatocytes of chick embryos at different terms of development was studied. Structural differences were shown between annular nucleoli and nucleoli with typical nucleolonemal organization. Ring-shaped nucleoli, as a rule, are devoid of nucleolonemal structure and their fibrillar component is reduced. The material which fills the central cavity always appears similar to the nucleoplasm in its structure. On the basis of serial sections, we propose that central cavity is isolated from the nucleoplasm. From the hypotonical treatment and EDTA staining application it is concluded that the central cavity of ring-shaped nucleoli contains DNP associated with the intranucleolar chromatin. The number of these nucleoli increased after the injection of a liver homogenate cytoplasmic fraction extracted from adult hen. The physiological significance of such nucleoli is discussed.", "PMID": 432952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1388", "title": "[Interrelationship between the striated structure of muscle and the distribution of calcium in it. I. The changes in the protofibrillary structure of the frog fast muscle fibers in steady potassium contracture].", "content": "The ultrastructure of protofibrillar apparatus of frog fast fibers was studied during a prolonged contracture initiated with KSCN. SCN anion inhibited Ca-pump, which resulted in maintaining a high intracellular Ca2+-concentration. It was suggested that stable connections between action and myosin filaments were formed within the region of overlapping. Under these conditions, thick and thin filaments were able to change their length from 1.3 to 1.9 micrometer, and from 0.83 to 1.2 micrometer, correspondingly, according to the sarcomere length. The structural non-uniformity of I-band was observed in contracted sarcomeres: a low electron density zone 30--40 nm wide was formed at the I/A band boundary.", "contents": "[Interrelationship between the striated structure of muscle and the distribution of calcium in it. I. The changes in the protofibrillary structure of the frog fast muscle fibers in steady potassium contracture]. The ultrastructure of protofibrillar apparatus of frog fast fibers was studied during a prolonged contracture initiated with KSCN. SCN anion inhibited Ca-pump, which resulted in maintaining a high intracellular Ca2+-concentration. It was suggested that stable connections between action and myosin filaments were formed within the region of overlapping. Under these conditions, thick and thin filaments were able to change their length from 1.3 to 1.9 micrometer, and from 0.83 to 1.2 micrometer, correspondingly, according to the sarcomere length. The structural non-uniformity of I-band was observed in contracted sarcomeres: a low electron density zone 30--40 nm wide was formed at the I/A band boundary.", "PMID": 432953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1389", "title": "[Interferometric study of a single living neuron in relation to its electrical activity].", "content": "Interferometric microscopic study of living neurons of the isolated brain of Limnaea stagnalis has revealed some fluctuation of dry weight of the cytoplasm and the nucleolus in the absence of electrical activity of the neuron. The character of these changes was different for different neurons. During the neuron-induced generation of action potentials in response to the intracellular electrical stimulation, the changes in dry weight became similar for all neurons: the dry weight of the cytoplasm increased and the dry weight of the nucleolus decreased. This effect grew with the time of stimulation.", "contents": "[Interferometric study of a single living neuron in relation to its electrical activity]. Interferometric microscopic study of living neurons of the isolated brain of Limnaea stagnalis has revealed some fluctuation of dry weight of the cytoplasm and the nucleolus in the absence of electrical activity of the neuron. The character of these changes was different for different neurons. During the neuron-induced generation of action potentials in response to the intracellular electrical stimulation, the changes in dry weight became similar for all neurons: the dry weight of the cytoplasm increased and the dry weight of the nucleolus decreased. This effect grew with the time of stimulation.", "PMID": 432954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1390", "title": "[Nature of the orientation of the tryptophan residues in the myosin and actin from striated muscle fiber].", "content": "The mode of tryptophan residue orientation in myosin and action myofilaments of the muscle fiber was studied using polarized ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent microscopy of the muscle fiber was studied using polarized ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent microscopy technique. During an elective extraction of proteine from thick and thin myofillaments changes in UV fluorescence anisotropy of muscle fibers were detected, thus suggesting that tryptophanil residues in myosin may be oriented by their own short axes mostly parallel, but in actin--perpendicular to the muscle fiber axis. The use of acrylamide, an UV fluorescence quencher, is proposed for the control of extraction electivity of proteins from muscle fibers.", "contents": "[Nature of the orientation of the tryptophan residues in the myosin and actin from striated muscle fiber]. The mode of tryptophan residue orientation in myosin and action myofilaments of the muscle fiber was studied using polarized ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent microscopy of the muscle fiber was studied using polarized ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent microscopy technique. During an elective extraction of proteine from thick and thin myofillaments changes in UV fluorescence anisotropy of muscle fibers were detected, thus suggesting that tryptophanil residues in myosin may be oriented by their own short axes mostly parallel, but in actin--perpendicular to the muscle fiber axis. The use of acrylamide, an UV fluorescence quencher, is proposed for the control of extraction electivity of proteins from muscle fibers.", "PMID": 432955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1391", "title": "[Effect of glycerin and urea on rat skeletal muscle twitches].", "content": "The dynamics of changes in the amplitude of isometric twitches of isolated EDL and SOL muscles of young rats influenced by low molecular non-electrolytes has been studied. Incubation of EDL in hypertonic glycerol or urea solution (400 mM) leads to a 80 and 60% decrease of twitches, respectively, within 15 minutes. During the following 1--2 hours the twitches restore the initial level or exceed it by 60% (urea). Removal of glycerol or urea causes a stable reduce of contraction up to 5--10% within 1 hour. Reincubation in these non-electrolytes increases twitches 3--4 fold during 1.5--2 hours. Alterations of SOL twitches in urea are the same as of EDL, while glycerol even in concentration of 600 mM produces only small changes. This appears to be determined by a higher permeability of slow muscle fibers to glycerol as compared to EDL. It is suggested that the decrease of twitches and their restore in non-electrolyte solution are determined by the hypertonic effect of the latter while reduction of twitches during non-electrolyte removal is caused by alteration of T-system.", "contents": "[Effect of glycerin and urea on rat skeletal muscle twitches]. The dynamics of changes in the amplitude of isometric twitches of isolated EDL and SOL muscles of young rats influenced by low molecular non-electrolytes has been studied. Incubation of EDL in hypertonic glycerol or urea solution (400 mM) leads to a 80 and 60% decrease of twitches, respectively, within 15 minutes. During the following 1--2 hours the twitches restore the initial level or exceed it by 60% (urea). Removal of glycerol or urea causes a stable reduce of contraction up to 5--10% within 1 hour. Reincubation in these non-electrolytes increases twitches 3--4 fold during 1.5--2 hours. Alterations of SOL twitches in urea are the same as of EDL, while glycerol even in concentration of 600 mM produces only small changes. This appears to be determined by a higher permeability of slow muscle fibers to glycerol as compared to EDL. It is suggested that the decrease of twitches and their restore in non-electrolyte solution are determined by the hypertonic effect of the latter while reduction of twitches during non-electrolyte removal is caused by alteration of T-system.", "PMID": 432956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1392", "title": "[Biological activity of exogenous DNA in rat thymocytes].", "content": "The thymocyte's viability and hybridization of one fraction thymocyte RNA with exogenous DNA have been studied after the incubation of cells with this DNA. The exogenous DNA decreases the number of viable cells and increases the hybridization percentage of pulse-labeled RNA. The above changes failed to be induced after the incubation of these cells with the complex DNA with actinomycin D, despite the fact that this complex penetrates into the cells as easily as does the free DNA.", "contents": "[Biological activity of exogenous DNA in rat thymocytes]. The thymocyte's viability and hybridization of one fraction thymocyte RNA with exogenous DNA have been studied after the incubation of cells with this DNA. The exogenous DNA decreases the number of viable cells and increases the hybridization percentage of pulse-labeled RNA. The above changes failed to be induced after the incubation of these cells with the complex DNA with actinomycin D, despite the fact that this complex penetrates into the cells as easily as does the free DNA.", "PMID": 432957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1393", "title": "[Functional activity of the lymphocytes of mouse lymph nodes in a system of viral carcinogenesis].", "content": "A study was made of the PHA-induced lymphocyte blastransformation (BT), and lymphocyte antitumor activity, using a model of progressive and regressive neoplastic process induced by the Moloney virus in mice BALB/c. The antitumor acitvity of lymphocytes was estimated by their ability to inhibit spheroid production by tumor cells. A lymphocyte BT and their antitumor activity was registered during a progressive growth of the tumor and its restoration as the tumor is regressing.", "contents": "[Functional activity of the lymphocytes of mouse lymph nodes in a system of viral carcinogenesis]. A study was made of the PHA-induced lymphocyte blastransformation (BT), and lymphocyte antitumor activity, using a model of progressive and regressive neoplastic process induced by the Moloney virus in mice BALB/c. The antitumor acitvity of lymphocytes was estimated by their ability to inhibit spheroid production by tumor cells. A lymphocyte BT and their antitumor activity was registered during a progressive growth of the tumor and its restoration as the tumor is regressing.", "PMID": 432958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1394", "title": "[Effect of UV radiation of varying wave length on the tumoringenicity of Zajdela ascitic hepatoma cells determined by transplantations into the anterior chamber of the eye in rats].", "content": "Potentialities for evaluating the viability of the Zaidela ascitic hepatoma cells by the number of tumours formed after transplantation of cells to the rat's eye anterior chamber have been considered. Dose effect of far (254 nm) and near (300--380 nm) UV light on the cell tumoregenecity has been studied.", "contents": "[Effect of UV radiation of varying wave length on the tumoringenicity of Zajdela ascitic hepatoma cells determined by transplantations into the anterior chamber of the eye in rats]. Potentialities for evaluating the viability of the Zaidela ascitic hepatoma cells by the number of tumours formed after transplantation of cells to the rat's eye anterior chamber have been considered. Dose effect of far (254 nm) and near (300--380 nm) UV light on the cell tumoregenecity has been studied.", "PMID": 432959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1395", "title": "[Patterns of the cytogenetic changes in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of children immunized against smallpox and parotitis].", "content": "A positive correlation between the frequency of acrocentric chromosome associations (AChA) and the accumulation of antibody titers in children immunized against smallpox and parotiditis has been discovered. The decrease of AChA in proliferating lymphocytes is accompanied with the lowering of D/G ratio due to group G predomination in AChA. The aberration frequency was kept unchanged throughout the whole observation of children immunized against parotiditis. A lower degree of cytogenic alterations in lymphocytes and accumulation of titers of antibodies in children immunized against paratiditis, as compared with those in the other group, may suggest a weak immunological effect of the given inoculative preparation.", "contents": "[Patterns of the cytogenetic changes in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of children immunized against smallpox and parotitis]. A positive correlation between the frequency of acrocentric chromosome associations (AChA) and the accumulation of antibody titers in children immunized against smallpox and parotiditis has been discovered. The decrease of AChA in proliferating lymphocytes is accompanied with the lowering of D/G ratio due to group G predomination in AChA. The aberration frequency was kept unchanged throughout the whole observation of children immunized against parotiditis. A lower degree of cytogenic alterations in lymphocytes and accumulation of titers of antibodies in children immunized against paratiditis, as compared with those in the other group, may suggest a weak immunological effect of the given inoculative preparation.", "PMID": 432960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1396", "title": "[Effect of ATP on protein synthesis in cultured nerve tissue of the edible snail].", "content": "External ATP in concentrations of 10(-6)--10(-3) M is shown to stimulate the label incorporation from intracellular labeled pool of 14C-leucine into proteins of mollusc nervous tissue. The maximum effect (by 45% higher than in control) is observed at the 10(-5) ATP concentration. In solutions with high concentration of bivalent ions, ATP action increases by 10--15%. Being incubated for an hour in physiological solutions without energic substrates nervous tissue loses 30--50% of labeled amino acids. Outwashing of 14C-leucine depends only a little on the bivalent ion concentration in the external solution and on the presence of helating agents. Addition of 10(-4) M ATP into the solution, completely inhibits the washing of amino acids out of tissue. At low bivalent ion concentrations 14C-leucine incorporation into nervous tissue in the presence of ATP changes inversely to the ATP concentration: low ATP concentrations (10(-5)--10(-6) M) activate label incorporation by 60--40%, whereas high concentrations lead to the corresponding inhibition. This inhibition is due to helating action of ATP.", "contents": "[Effect of ATP on protein synthesis in cultured nerve tissue of the edible snail]. External ATP in concentrations of 10(-6)--10(-3) M is shown to stimulate the label incorporation from intracellular labeled pool of 14C-leucine into proteins of mollusc nervous tissue. The maximum effect (by 45% higher than in control) is observed at the 10(-5) ATP concentration. In solutions with high concentration of bivalent ions, ATP action increases by 10--15%. Being incubated for an hour in physiological solutions without energic substrates nervous tissue loses 30--50% of labeled amino acids. Outwashing of 14C-leucine depends only a little on the bivalent ion concentration in the external solution and on the presence of helating agents. Addition of 10(-4) M ATP into the solution, completely inhibits the washing of amino acids out of tissue. At low bivalent ion concentrations 14C-leucine incorporation into nervous tissue in the presence of ATP changes inversely to the ATP concentration: low ATP concentrations (10(-5)--10(-6) M) activate label incorporation by 60--40%, whereas high concentrations lead to the corresponding inhibition. This inhibition is due to helating action of ATP.", "PMID": 432961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1397", "title": "[Effect of diphtheria toxin on the release and extractability of histones from the liver cell nuclei of guinea pigs].", "content": "The release and extraction of histones from the nuclei of guinea pig liver under the influence of diphteria toxin was investigated in vivo and in vitro. A considerable loss of nuclear histones, increase of easily extracted arginine-rich histones and a more complete extraction of lysine-rich ones have been shown. A possible role of histones in the development of diphteria intoxication is discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of diphtheria toxin on the release and extractability of histones from the liver cell nuclei of guinea pigs]. The release and extraction of histones from the nuclei of guinea pig liver under the influence of diphteria toxin was investigated in vivo and in vitro. A considerable loss of nuclear histones, increase of easily extracted arginine-rich histones and a more complete extraction of lysine-rich ones have been shown. A possible role of histones in the development of diphteria intoxication is discussed.", "PMID": 432962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1398", "title": "[States of the organism and cytology].", "content": "New ways are suggested in studies into the cell being in various natural states, differing in the intensity and completeness of life processes--from the active life to the non-active state of anabiosis. Besides, possibilities of investigating viable structures in a non-functioning state at anabiosis and some results of such investigations are set forth. Special attention is paid to the study of the interaction of viable structures with water as the basis of the life process, and to the study of the activity of a self-regulating cell system in ranges of natural states, in addition to the leap-like boundaries between anabiosis, intermediate states (mesabiosis) and active states.", "contents": "[States of the organism and cytology]. New ways are suggested in studies into the cell being in various natural states, differing in the intensity and completeness of life processes--from the active life to the non-active state of anabiosis. Besides, possibilities of investigating viable structures in a non-functioning state at anabiosis and some results of such investigations are set forth. Special attention is paid to the study of the interaction of viable structures with water as the basis of the life process, and to the study of the activity of a self-regulating cell system in ranges of natural states, in addition to the leap-like boundaries between anabiosis, intermediate states (mesabiosis) and active states.", "PMID": 432964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1399", "title": "[Interaction between Karyolysus sp. and rock lizard liver cells during hibernation].", "content": "During the rock lizard hibernation, no nuclear division occurs in the exoerythrocytar trophozoites of Karyolysus sp., found in hepatocytes or Kupffer's cells. In addition, organelles of the apical complex are seen persisting in these trophozoites, unlike the situation routinely observed in the majority of other intracellular sporozoans. Thus, the parasites under study can be compared with hypnozoites of other coccidia. The material being examined from natural rather than experimental conditions, during lizards' hibernation, the dynamics of host-parasite interrelations can be followed that involves the appearance in the infected cell of autophagous vacuoles, changes in mitochondrial structure and pattern of endoplasmic reticulum, the connection of the system of lamellar channels with the space of the parasitophorous vacuole. The results of the present observations may suggest, first, that during the host hibernation, exoerythrocytar trophozoites of Karyolysus being intracellular in their spatial distribution, are able to obtain nutrients from the outer, extracellular space, through the system of lamellar channels; second, that these channels can represent intercellular connections, which makes one consider the exoerythrocytar trophozoites as intercellular rather than intracellular parasites.", "contents": "[Interaction between Karyolysus sp. and rock lizard liver cells during hibernation]. During the rock lizard hibernation, no nuclear division occurs in the exoerythrocytar trophozoites of Karyolysus sp., found in hepatocytes or Kupffer's cells. In addition, organelles of the apical complex are seen persisting in these trophozoites, unlike the situation routinely observed in the majority of other intracellular sporozoans. Thus, the parasites under study can be compared with hypnozoites of other coccidia. The material being examined from natural rather than experimental conditions, during lizards' hibernation, the dynamics of host-parasite interrelations can be followed that involves the appearance in the infected cell of autophagous vacuoles, changes in mitochondrial structure and pattern of endoplasmic reticulum, the connection of the system of lamellar channels with the space of the parasitophorous vacuole. The results of the present observations may suggest, first, that during the host hibernation, exoerythrocytar trophozoites of Karyolysus being intracellular in their spatial distribution, are able to obtain nutrients from the outer, extracellular space, through the system of lamellar channels; second, that these channels can represent intercellular connections, which makes one consider the exoerythrocytar trophozoites as intercellular rather than intracellular parasites.", "PMID": 432965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1400", "title": "[Ultrastructure of goose intestinal epithelial cells infected with Eimeria kotlani].", "content": "The ultrastructure of goose intestinal epithelial cells infected with various stages of E. kotlani has been described. No changes in the ultrastructure of the nucleus and cytoplasm were detected in cells, containing asexual stages. Damage of host cell structures, except Golgi complex, was not observed until gamogenesis. It is suggested that these changes are caused by the intensive \"exploitation\" of differentiated epithelial cells by large coccidian stages (macro- and microgametocytes). It is concluded that the epithelial cell of the goose, as of other animals, may function beyond crypts without the regulating influence of the nucleus.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of goose intestinal epithelial cells infected with Eimeria kotlani]. The ultrastructure of goose intestinal epithelial cells infected with various stages of E. kotlani has been described. No changes in the ultrastructure of the nucleus and cytoplasm were detected in cells, containing asexual stages. Damage of host cell structures, except Golgi complex, was not observed until gamogenesis. It is suggested that these changes are caused by the intensive \"exploitation\" of differentiated epithelial cells by large coccidian stages (macro- and microgametocytes). It is concluded that the epithelial cell of the goose, as of other animals, may function beyond crypts without the regulating influence of the nucleus.", "PMID": 432966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1401", "title": "[Cytochemical study of free-living flagellates of suborder Bodonina. I. Morphology and nucleic acids].", "content": "Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) have been discovered in the kinetoplast of free-living Bodonina: Bodo caudatus, Pleuromonas jaculans, Rhynchomonas nasuta--by means of cytochemical methods. The kinetoplast has variable contents of nucleic acids whose chemoarchitectonics is due to their non-homogeneous distribution within the kinetoplast. The Feulgen reaction in the kinetoplast is more intensive than in the nucleus. Kinetoplast is closely connected with the cytoplasmic RNA metabolism. Many individuals of R. nasuta were found to have two kinetoplasts, no other signs of cell division being observed. P. jaculans has up to 45% of dyskinetoplastic forms.", "contents": "[Cytochemical study of free-living flagellates of suborder Bodonina. I. Morphology and nucleic acids]. Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) have been discovered in the kinetoplast of free-living Bodonina: Bodo caudatus, Pleuromonas jaculans, Rhynchomonas nasuta--by means of cytochemical methods. The kinetoplast has variable contents of nucleic acids whose chemoarchitectonics is due to their non-homogeneous distribution within the kinetoplast. The Feulgen reaction in the kinetoplast is more intensive than in the nucleus. Kinetoplast is closely connected with the cytoplasmic RNA metabolism. Many individuals of R. nasuta were found to have two kinetoplasts, no other signs of cell division being observed. P. jaculans has up to 45% of dyskinetoplastic forms.", "PMID": 432967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1402", "title": "[Ribosomal RNA synthesis in the kinetoplasts of 2 species of Crithidia].", "content": "A study was made of the possibility of ribosomal RNA synthesis in kinetoplasts of two crithidian species--C. oncopelty and C. fasciculata. The RNA synthesized by isolated kinetoplasts in sucrose gradients was resolved into the following five fractions; 23S, 16S, 12S, 9S and 6--4S. Since pure kinetoplast ribosomes contain 23S and 16S RNA, a supposition was made that the first two transcripts might be ribosomal RNAs. It is suggested that the kinetoplast DNA contains genes for rRNAs and that the synthesis of these RNAs occurs in the kinetoplast.", "contents": "[Ribosomal RNA synthesis in the kinetoplasts of 2 species of Crithidia]. A study was made of the possibility of ribosomal RNA synthesis in kinetoplasts of two crithidian species--C. oncopelty and C. fasciculata. The RNA synthesized by isolated kinetoplasts in sucrose gradients was resolved into the following five fractions; 23S, 16S, 12S, 9S and 6--4S. Since pure kinetoplast ribosomes contain 23S and 16S RNA, a supposition was made that the first two transcripts might be ribosomal RNAs. It is suggested that the kinetoplast DNA contains genes for rRNAs and that the synthesis of these RNAs occurs in the kinetoplast.", "PMID": 432968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1403", "title": "[Effect of local UV irradiation of the generative nuclei of Paramecium caudatum on the sexual functions of the cells].", "content": "A study has been made of the functional pattern of the micronucleus (Mi) during the sexual process in ciliates Paramecium caudatum which are descendants of those individuals whose Mi was locally irradiated with UV in dose of 3060 erg/mm2. It was demonstrated that these descendants (cells of UV-clones) were able to enter into the sexual process whatever morphological type of their Mi might be. In 4 of 14 tested clones, the initial mating type got changed for the opposite one, which may be associated with the Mi genome alteration following UV irradiation. The nuclear reorganization during the sexual process was studied in three UV irradiated clones. The local UV irradiated of the Mi is followed by the number of abnormalities in the derivates of Mi during the metagamic phase of the sexual process in clones whose Mi underwent serious changes. Exconjugants obtained from UV-clones with such changes in Mi and normal test-clones demonstrated a lower viability.", "contents": "[Effect of local UV irradiation of the generative nuclei of Paramecium caudatum on the sexual functions of the cells]. A study has been made of the functional pattern of the micronucleus (Mi) during the sexual process in ciliates Paramecium caudatum which are descendants of those individuals whose Mi was locally irradiated with UV in dose of 3060 erg/mm2. It was demonstrated that these descendants (cells of UV-clones) were able to enter into the sexual process whatever morphological type of their Mi might be. In 4 of 14 tested clones, the initial mating type got changed for the opposite one, which may be associated with the Mi genome alteration following UV irradiation. The nuclear reorganization during the sexual process was studied in three UV irradiated clones. The local UV irradiated of the Mi is followed by the number of abnormalities in the derivates of Mi during the metagamic phase of the sexual process in clones whose Mi underwent serious changes. Exconjugants obtained from UV-clones with such changes in Mi and normal test-clones demonstrated a lower viability.", "PMID": 432969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1404", "title": "A prosthetic aid for a developing blind child.", "content": "An experimental ultrasonic sonar for use as a sensory aid with blind children is described. Novel signal processing techniques make the aid relatively simple to construct, yet allow many of its parameters to be changed in the field. In particular, the aid has two features, a variable range code and an automatic level control, which make the device very versatile in a wide variety of environments. The ultrasonic tranducers used in the aid are described in some detail.", "contents": "A prosthetic aid for a developing blind child. An experimental ultrasonic sonar for use as a sensory aid with blind children is described. Novel signal processing techniques make the aid relatively simple to construct, yet allow many of its parameters to be changed in the field. In particular, the aid has two features, a variable range code and an automatic level control, which make the device very versatile in a wide variety of environments. The ultrasonic tranducers used in the aid are described in some detail.", "PMID": 432970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1405", "title": "Three-dimensional display of ultrasonic images using a fly's-eye lens.", "content": "In order to form a three-dimensional image from a set of two-dimensional cross-sectional ultrasonic images, a simple method making use of a fly's-eye lens in proposed. The depth perception obtained from the reconstructed image using the fly's-eye lens is analysed and an optical configuration that maximizes the depth perception is devised. With this configuration, the synthesis of a three-dimensional image is performed by using a simple object. Results of the experiment show clearly the three-dimensional aspect of the reconstructed image.", "contents": "Three-dimensional display of ultrasonic images using a fly's-eye lens. In order to form a three-dimensional image from a set of two-dimensional cross-sectional ultrasonic images, a simple method making use of a fly's-eye lens in proposed. The depth perception obtained from the reconstructed image using the fly's-eye lens is analysed and an optical configuration that maximizes the depth perception is devised. With this configuration, the synthesis of a three-dimensional image is performed by using a simple object. Results of the experiment show clearly the three-dimensional aspect of the reconstructed image.", "PMID": 432971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1406", "title": "Nocturnal enuresis.", "content": "Primary enuresis is essentially of two main types - the common diurnal-nocturnal type with associated bladder instability and the less common nocturnal type which shows normal cystometry. The importance of depth of sleep in both types is stressed, particularly the former. A rationale of treatment, self-monitored, voluntary, escalating cystometry, is described.", "contents": "Nocturnal enuresis. Primary enuresis is essentially of two main types - the common diurnal-nocturnal type with associated bladder instability and the less common nocturnal type which shows normal cystometry. The importance of depth of sleep in both types is stressed, particularly the former. A rationale of treatment, self-monitored, voluntary, escalating cystometry, is described.", "PMID": 432994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1407", "title": "Bladder denervation procedures.", "content": "Bladder denervation can provide useful rehabilitation of bladder function when other measures have failed. Idiopathic hyperactivity may respond best to hyperbaric distension or bladder transection. Procedures performed close to the bladder seem, at present, to be more effective than those near the central nervous system. Procedures have little morbidity, apart from transection. On the average a 50 per cent improvement may be expected, but in all cases it is most important to consider the length of follow-up in reported series.", "contents": "Bladder denervation procedures. Bladder denervation can provide useful rehabilitation of bladder function when other measures have failed. Idiopathic hyperactivity may respond best to hyperbaric distension or bladder transection. Procedures performed close to the bladder seem, at present, to be more effective than those near the central nervous system. Procedures have little morbidity, apart from transection. On the average a 50 per cent improvement may be expected, but in all cases it is most important to consider the length of follow-up in reported series.", "PMID": 432998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1408", "title": "[Nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder with concomitant multiple adenomatous polyps of the large bowel. An abortive form of Gardner's syndrome? (author's transl)].", "content": "For the first time, a nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder coinciding with multiple adenomatous polyps of the large bowel, in a 64-year-old male, is reported. The relationship of these tumors at different sites to a known clinical systemic disease is questionable; they could conceivably be ascribed to an abortive form of Gardner's syndrome. On the basis of a case report, the essential aspects of the nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder are reviewed and discussed.", "contents": "[Nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder with concomitant multiple adenomatous polyps of the large bowel. An abortive form of Gardner's syndrome? (author's transl)]. For the first time, a nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder coinciding with multiple adenomatous polyps of the large bowel, in a 64-year-old male, is reported. The relationship of these tumors at different sites to a known clinical systemic disease is questionable; they could conceivably be ascribed to an abortive form of Gardner's syndrome. On the basis of a case report, the essential aspects of the nephrogenic adenoma of the urinary bladder are reviewed and discussed.", "PMID": 433006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1409", "title": "[Sclerosing lipogranuloma of male genitalia (author's transl)].", "content": "The term \"sclerosing lipogranuloma\" was coined in 1950 to name a peculiar granulomatous fatty tissue reaction that according to Smetana and Bernhard represents a \"local reactive process which sometimes follows injury to subcutaneous fat tissue\". Later other investigators have pointed out that injections of exogenous lipids probably cause this lesion. A case of sclerosing lipogranuloma in the scrotum is presented, in which paraffin hydrocarbon could be identified. As prior to the appearance of the lipogranuloma a paraffin containing ointment had been applied locally for three weeks a percutaneous resorption of paraffin as a possible etiology is discussed together with a review of the literature.", "contents": "[Sclerosing lipogranuloma of male genitalia (author's transl)]. The term \"sclerosing lipogranuloma\" was coined in 1950 to name a peculiar granulomatous fatty tissue reaction that according to Smetana and Bernhard represents a \"local reactive process which sometimes follows injury to subcutaneous fat tissue\". Later other investigators have pointed out that injections of exogenous lipids probably cause this lesion. A case of sclerosing lipogranuloma in the scrotum is presented, in which paraffin hydrocarbon could be identified. As prior to the appearance of the lipogranuloma a paraffin containing ointment had been applied locally for three weeks a percutaneous resorption of paraffin as a possible etiology is discussed together with a review of the literature.", "PMID": 433007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1410", "title": "[Papilloma of the prostate (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is presented of a male patient who had been operated on the prostate because of prostatic hyperplasia. The dissection of the resected specimen showed a nodular lesion ten millimeters in diameter. Histologically, this nodule presented the uncommon pattern of a papilloma of the prostate. The structure, histogenesis and probable benignity of this rare lesion are discussed.", "contents": "[Papilloma of the prostate (author's transl)]. A report is presented of a male patient who had been operated on the prostate because of prostatic hyperplasia. The dissection of the resected specimen showed a nodular lesion ten millimeters in diameter. Histologically, this nodule presented the uncommon pattern of a papilloma of the prostate. The structure, histogenesis and probable benignity of this rare lesion are discussed.", "PMID": 433008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1411", "title": "[In-vitro-technique for autoradiographic investigations of cell proliferation in benign and malignant alterations of the human urinary bladder mucosa from biopsy specimens (author' transl)].", "content": "An in-vitro double labelling technique with 3H- AND 14C-Thymidine was applied to biopsy specimens of the human urinary bladder mucosa in order to determine proliferation kinetics of normal bladder epithelium as well as its benign and malignant alterations. Application of above mentioned technique led to evaluable autoradiographs. The mean 3H-Thymidine labelling-index in bladder cancer was remarkably higher than in normal bladder epithelium and in benign papillomas. There was a good correlation between histologic grading of malignancy and increase of the mean 3H-Thymidine labelling index. Addition of 5-Fluorodesoxyuridine to the incubation medium had no influence on the labelling of the incubated tissue.", "contents": "[In-vitro-technique for autoradiographic investigations of cell proliferation in benign and malignant alterations of the human urinary bladder mucosa from biopsy specimens (author' transl)]. An in-vitro double labelling technique with 3H- AND 14C-Thymidine was applied to biopsy specimens of the human urinary bladder mucosa in order to determine proliferation kinetics of normal bladder epithelium as well as its benign and malignant alterations. Application of above mentioned technique led to evaluable autoradiographs. The mean 3H-Thymidine labelling-index in bladder cancer was remarkably higher than in normal bladder epithelium and in benign papillomas. There was a good correlation between histologic grading of malignancy and increase of the mean 3H-Thymidine labelling index. Addition of 5-Fluorodesoxyuridine to the incubation medium had no influence on the labelling of the incubated tissue.", "PMID": 433009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1412", "title": "[Do biopsies and operations lead to formation of distant metastases? (author's transl)].", "content": "In medical and public literature the radiologist Krokowski states that diagnostic and operative procedures of cancer disease often stimulates the development of metastases. He believes that 30--90% of metastatic disease is the result of prior operations. Consequently he requires a prophylactic radiation therapy before any operative therapy is done. The authors question the theses of Krokowski since there is no detail presentation of this methods, which therefore cannot be repeated.", "contents": "[Do biopsies and operations lead to formation of distant metastases? (author's transl)]. In medical and public literature the radiologist Krokowski states that diagnostic and operative procedures of cancer disease often stimulates the development of metastases. He believes that 30--90% of metastatic disease is the result of prior operations. Consequently he requires a prophylactic radiation therapy before any operative therapy is done. The authors question the theses of Krokowski since there is no detail presentation of this methods, which therefore cannot be repeated.", "PMID": 433010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1413", "title": "[The reliability of needle puncture in the diagnosis of benign renal cysts? (author's transl)].", "content": "Confirmation of the diagnosis of a benign renal cyst through needle puncture is being reported with increased frequency. The puncture reveals either a clear, cloudy or bloody fluid, or no fluid at all. The authors analyze 88 of their own and 805 cyst punctures from the literature. A benign cyst was always present when the aspirated fluid was clear (763 cases). When the aspirated fluid was cloudy or bloody (130 cases) a malignant kidney tumor was found in 35% of the cases. Complications from cyst punctures are described. The authors feel that needle puncture is a highly effective method in the differential diagnosis of renal masses. It can also be used when multiple cysts are present on one or both sides.", "contents": "[The reliability of needle puncture in the diagnosis of benign renal cysts? (author's transl)]. Confirmation of the diagnosis of a benign renal cyst through needle puncture is being reported with increased frequency. The puncture reveals either a clear, cloudy or bloody fluid, or no fluid at all. The authors analyze 88 of their own and 805 cyst punctures from the literature. A benign cyst was always present when the aspirated fluid was clear (763 cases). When the aspirated fluid was cloudy or bloody (130 cases) a malignant kidney tumor was found in 35% of the cases. Complications from cyst punctures are described. The authors feel that needle puncture is a highly effective method in the differential diagnosis of renal masses. It can also be used when multiple cysts are present on one or both sides.", "PMID": 433011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1414", "title": "[Treatment of prostatic carcinoma stage C with combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery (author's transl)].", "content": "31 patients with prostatic carcinoma stage C were treated by combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery. Additionally in all patients a subcapsular orchiectomy was performed. A distinct tumour reduction was found in all patients. Six months after the freezing a palpable tumour could be detected only in 4 cases out of 29. At different time intervalls after the operation 57 biopsies of the prostate were obtained with the tru-cut-needle. In 14 patients no tumour tissue could be detected whereas tumour cells were found in the biopsies of the remaining patients. Combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery therefore is a palliative form of treatment in prostatic carcinoma.", "contents": "[Treatment of prostatic carcinoma stage C with combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery (author's transl)]. 31 patients with prostatic carcinoma stage C were treated by combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery. Additionally in all patients a subcapsular orchiectomy was performed. A distinct tumour reduction was found in all patients. Six months after the freezing a palpable tumour could be detected only in 4 cases out of 29. At different time intervalls after the operation 57 biopsies of the prostate were obtained with the tru-cut-needle. In 14 patients no tumour tissue could be detected whereas tumour cells were found in the biopsies of the remaining patients. Combined perineal and transurethral cryosurgery therefore is a palliative form of treatment in prostatic carcinoma.", "PMID": 433012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1415", "title": "[Problems concerning diagnosis and therapy of poorly vascularized malignant kidney tumors (author's transl)].", "content": "Clear directives for the indication of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures have as yet not been formulated. We postulate a solution using poorly vascularized and avascular tumors of the kidney verified by x-ray studies and surgical exploration. An attempt was made to achieve an exact diagnosis of poorly vascularized space occupying processes of the kidney (the available figures range from 3--10% among kidney tumors) using optimal economical standardized test methods. We suggest that the time between the first diagnosis and the surgical exploration be kept as short as medically responsible.", "contents": "[Problems concerning diagnosis and therapy of poorly vascularized malignant kidney tumors (author's transl)]. Clear directives for the indication of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures have as yet not been formulated. We postulate a solution using poorly vascularized and avascular tumors of the kidney verified by x-ray studies and surgical exploration. An attempt was made to achieve an exact diagnosis of poorly vascularized space occupying processes of the kidney (the available figures range from 3--10% among kidney tumors) using optimal economical standardized test methods. We suggest that the time between the first diagnosis and the surgical exploration be kept as short as medically responsible.", "PMID": 433013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1416", "title": "[Treatement of malignant renal tumors by selective embolization of the renal artery (author's transl)].", "content": "The embolization of tumors in the treatment of hypernephromas is discussed on the basis of 13 cases. The method involved the use of three different substances: thrombin (Topostasin), homogenized muscle pulp, and fibrin from the patients own body, 600 units of thrombin being subsequently injected. In each case the embolization material was introduced into the tumorous kidney via an indwelling terminally open Kifa catheter after preoperative selective angiography. A differentiation is made in the indication between prophylactic embolization, which is performed preoperatively to prevent extensive hemorrhaging and increased tumor cell dissemination, and curative embolization applied in the case of patients presenting a greatly increased operation risk, inoperable tumor, or large-scale hematuria. The paper discusses the course of the treatment, possible complications, and postembolization in terms of case histories. The fibrin-thrombin method, beause of the small expenditure of time and technical resources involved, presently appears to be most favorable form of renal tumor embolization. Other methods are discussed on the basis of the literature.", "contents": "[Treatement of malignant renal tumors by selective embolization of the renal artery (author's transl)]. The embolization of tumors in the treatment of hypernephromas is discussed on the basis of 13 cases. The method involved the use of three different substances: thrombin (Topostasin), homogenized muscle pulp, and fibrin from the patients own body, 600 units of thrombin being subsequently injected. In each case the embolization material was introduced into the tumorous kidney via an indwelling terminally open Kifa catheter after preoperative selective angiography. A differentiation is made in the indication between prophylactic embolization, which is performed preoperatively to prevent extensive hemorrhaging and increased tumor cell dissemination, and curative embolization applied in the case of patients presenting a greatly increased operation risk, inoperable tumor, or large-scale hematuria. The paper discusses the course of the treatment, possible complications, and postembolization in terms of case histories. The fibrin-thrombin method, beause of the small expenditure of time and technical resources involved, presently appears to be most favorable form of renal tumor embolization. Other methods are discussed on the basis of the literature.", "PMID": 433014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1417", "title": "[Adenocarcinoma of the bladder (author's transl)].", "content": "During a 10 year follow-up, 18 patients with primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder or urachus were treated operatively. We report on the therapy and results. The criteria for differentiation between primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder and urachal carcinoma are stressed. Chronic irritation of the urothelium is most likely involved in the natural histroy of primary adenocarcinoma. Cystectomy should be the therapy of choice for the adenocarcinoma of the bladder. A partial resection is recommended for urachal carcinoma. Palliation is possible with cytotoxic agents. Irradiation seems to be of no beneficial effect on tumor growth.", "contents": "[Adenocarcinoma of the bladder (author's transl)]. During a 10 year follow-up, 18 patients with primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder or urachus were treated operatively. We report on the therapy and results. The criteria for differentiation between primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder and urachal carcinoma are stressed. Chronic irritation of the urothelium is most likely involved in the natural histroy of primary adenocarcinoma. Cystectomy should be the therapy of choice for the adenocarcinoma of the bladder. A partial resection is recommended for urachal carcinoma. Palliation is possible with cytotoxic agents. Irradiation seems to be of no beneficial effect on tumor growth.", "PMID": 433015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1418", "title": "[Bromocriptine and prostatic carcinoma: testosterone metabolism in relation to tumor grading (author's transl)].", "content": "Since Prolactin has intra- and extrapostatic effects on growth and function of the prostate, the influence of the anti-prolactin bromocriptine (PRAVIDEL) was investigated in 15 patients with untreated prostatic carcinoma of various grades of differentiation in vivo. A five-days treatment with 15 mg Pravidel daily significantly suppressed prostatic androgen uptake, unrelated to tumor grading. 5 alpha-Reductase was favored in poorly differentiated lesions with a decreased testosterone/dihydrotestosterone ratio. The pretherapeutic accumulation of 5 alpha-androstanediol was diminished after Pravidel and the tissue/plasma ratio decreased. The 17 beta-hydroxy-pathway of testosterone is predominant as compared to the 17-keto pathway; both pathways are favored after Pravidel in poorly differentiated tumors. Intraprostatic metabolic effects of Pravidel are not related to peripheral androgen levels nor are they dependent on altered prostatic hormone uptake. In the poorly differentiated prostatic tumors Pravidel initiates a metabolic situation as observed in prostate cancer responding to androgen depletion or estrogen therapy.", "contents": "[Bromocriptine and prostatic carcinoma: testosterone metabolism in relation to tumor grading (author's transl)]. Since Prolactin has intra- and extrapostatic effects on growth and function of the prostate, the influence of the anti-prolactin bromocriptine (PRAVIDEL) was investigated in 15 patients with untreated prostatic carcinoma of various grades of differentiation in vivo. A five-days treatment with 15 mg Pravidel daily significantly suppressed prostatic androgen uptake, unrelated to tumor grading. 5 alpha-Reductase was favored in poorly differentiated lesions with a decreased testosterone/dihydrotestosterone ratio. The pretherapeutic accumulation of 5 alpha-androstanediol was diminished after Pravidel and the tissue/plasma ratio decreased. The 17 beta-hydroxy-pathway of testosterone is predominant as compared to the 17-keto pathway; both pathways are favored after Pravidel in poorly differentiated tumors. Intraprostatic metabolic effects of Pravidel are not related to peripheral androgen levels nor are they dependent on altered prostatic hormone uptake. In the poorly differentiated prostatic tumors Pravidel initiates a metabolic situation as observed in prostate cancer responding to androgen depletion or estrogen therapy.", "PMID": 433016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1419", "title": "[Fibrosarcoma in onocytoma (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 69-year-old male patient a leftsided renal tumor was found. The patient who initially refused an operation, was treated surgically 3 1/2 years later, when loss of strength and weight as well as pain in the upper abdomen were noted. The tumorweight was 920 g and represented histologically, besides a oncocytic adenoma, a fibrous sarcoma. Both tumors were intermingled. We assume that the malignant growth originated in degenerated areas of the benign adenoma.", "contents": "[Fibrosarcoma in onocytoma (author's transl)]. In a 69-year-old male patient a leftsided renal tumor was found. The patient who initially refused an operation, was treated surgically 3 1/2 years later, when loss of strength and weight as well as pain in the upper abdomen were noted. The tumorweight was 920 g and represented histologically, besides a oncocytic adenoma, a fibrous sarcoma. Both tumors were intermingled. We assume that the malignant growth originated in degenerated areas of the benign adenoma.", "PMID": 433017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1420", "title": "Inflammatory gastrointestinal disease presenting as genitourinary disease.", "content": "Chronic inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and appendicitis may be complicated by genitourinary tract problems. Patients with these diseases occasionally present with a genitourinary problem as an initial complaint prior to diagnosis of the underlying primary bowel disease. The correct diagnosis in these difficult cases will be arrived at sooner if the genitourinary manifestations of inflammatory diseases of the bowel are actively considered.", "contents": "Inflammatory gastrointestinal disease presenting as genitourinary disease. Chronic inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and appendicitis may be complicated by genitourinary tract problems. Patients with these diseases occasionally present with a genitourinary problem as an initial complaint prior to diagnosis of the underlying primary bowel disease. The correct diagnosis in these difficult cases will be arrived at sooner if the genitourinary manifestations of inflammatory diseases of the bowel are actively considered.", "PMID": 433018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1421", "title": "Bone pain in metastatic cancer of prostate.", "content": "The characteristics of bone pain in metastatic cancer of the prostate were studied in 23 patients. The pain may be continuous or intermittent, show diurnal variations, and be migratory. The effects of activity, rest, and alcohol vary in different individuals. Relief of bone pain by analgesic medications is unsatisfactory. Aspirin-containing compounds are often more effective than narcotics for pain relief. The effects of external beam irradiation for palliation of pain are unpredictable.", "contents": "Bone pain in metastatic cancer of prostate. The characteristics of bone pain in metastatic cancer of the prostate were studied in 23 patients. The pain may be continuous or intermittent, show diurnal variations, and be migratory. The effects of activity, rest, and alcohol vary in different individuals. Relief of bone pain by analgesic medications is unsatisfactory. Aspirin-containing compounds are often more effective than narcotics for pain relief. The effects of external beam irradiation for palliation of pain are unpredictable.", "PMID": 433019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1422", "title": "Vasectomy with transurethral resection of prostate.", "content": "A retrospective study was made of 200 patients undergoing transurethral prostatectomy. Half of these patients received bilateral vasectomies. The vasectomized patients had a 5-percent incidence of epididymitis as compared with a 2-percent incidence in the nonvasectomized patients. Vasectomy failed to provide adequate protection against postoperative epididymitis and cannot be recommended as a routine procedure with a transurethral prostatectomy.", "contents": "Vasectomy with transurethral resection of prostate. A retrospective study was made of 200 patients undergoing transurethral prostatectomy. Half of these patients received bilateral vasectomies. The vasectomized patients had a 5-percent incidence of epididymitis as compared with a 2-percent incidence in the nonvasectomized patients. Vasectomy failed to provide adequate protection against postoperative epididymitis and cannot be recommended as a routine procedure with a transurethral prostatectomy.", "PMID": 433020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1423", "title": "H-Y antigen and disorders of sexual differentiation.", "content": "The process of sexual differentiation has been further clarified by the discovery of histocompatibility -Y(H-Y) antigen. A patient with abnormal sexual differentiation whose workup included testing for H-Y antigen is presented. The discovery and clinical applicability of H-Y antigen in intersex patients are presented.", "contents": "H-Y antigen and disorders of sexual differentiation. The process of sexual differentiation has been further clarified by the discovery of histocompatibility -Y(H-Y) antigen. A patient with abnormal sexual differentiation whose workup included testing for H-Y antigen is presented. The discovery and clinical applicability of H-Y antigen in intersex patients are presented.", "PMID": 433021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1424", "title": "Reevaluation of vest technique of vesicourethral reconstruction in radical retropubic prostatectomy.", "content": "Vesicourethral reconstruction after radical retropubic prostatectomy was done by the Vest technique in 36 patients and by direct vesicourethral anastomosis in 100 patients. Complications resulting from the two methods of vesicourethral reconstruction were similar. Incontinence after radical retropublic prostatectomy appears not to be related to the method of vesicourethral reconstruction but occurs because of damage during surgery or postoperative scarring of the distal sphincteric mechanism.", "contents": "Reevaluation of vest technique of vesicourethral reconstruction in radical retropubic prostatectomy. Vesicourethral reconstruction after radical retropubic prostatectomy was done by the Vest technique in 36 patients and by direct vesicourethral anastomosis in 100 patients. Complications resulting from the two methods of vesicourethral reconstruction were similar. Incontinence after radical retropublic prostatectomy appears not to be related to the method of vesicourethral reconstruction but occurs because of damage during surgery or postoperative scarring of the distal sphincteric mechanism.", "PMID": 433022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1425", "title": "Ureteropelvic junction obstruction and sibling uropathology.", "content": "Thirty-seven siblings of 20 probands with ureteropelvic junction obstruction were evaluated with an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Fourteen of 37 (38 per cent) had uropathology and 13 of 14 (93 per cent) required some form of therapy. Fifty-five per cent of the families had an additional child with uropathology. The recommendation concluded from this and a previous study on reflux is that all siblings of children with uropathology be investigated with an IVP and VCUG regardless of age or sex.", "contents": "Ureteropelvic junction obstruction and sibling uropathology. Thirty-seven siblings of 20 probands with ureteropelvic junction obstruction were evaluated with an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Fourteen of 37 (38 per cent) had uropathology and 13 of 14 (93 per cent) required some form of therapy. Fifty-five per cent of the families had an additional child with uropathology. The recommendation concluded from this and a previous study on reflux is that all siblings of children with uropathology be investigated with an IVP and VCUG regardless of age or sex.", "PMID": 433023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1426", "title": "Value of selective parathormone radioimmunoassay in primary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "Nine cases of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) in patients with urinary calculi are reported and discussed. Selective venous catheterization and parathormone (PTH) radioimmunoassay confirmed the diagnosis in all cases, preoperatively discriminated between adenoma and diffuse parathyroid hyperplasia, and permitted exact preoperative localization of 5 of 7 adenomas. The interest of the urologist in PHP and the usefulness of selective PTH radioimmunoassay are discussed and emphasized.", "contents": "Value of selective parathormone radioimmunoassay in primary hyperparathyroidism. Nine cases of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) in patients with urinary calculi are reported and discussed. Selective venous catheterization and parathormone (PTH) radioimmunoassay confirmed the diagnosis in all cases, preoperatively discriminated between adenoma and diffuse parathyroid hyperplasia, and permitted exact preoperative localization of 5 of 7 adenomas. The interest of the urologist in PHP and the usefulness of selective PTH radioimmunoassay are discussed and emphasized.", "PMID": 433024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1427", "title": "Multiple sampling for parathyroid hormone by subclavian approach.", "content": "Selective venous catheterization with parathyroid hormone assay is a valuable procedure in the diagnosis and treatment of parathyroid tumors. The multiple sampling via the femoral vein is sometimes frustratingly uncertain and time consuming. The technique herein described is simpler, quicker, and less hazardous. It is accomplished via the subclavian approach, a relatively easier anatomic way, and utilizes a short single-curve catheter that gives a high degree of torsion control.", "contents": "Multiple sampling for parathyroid hormone by subclavian approach. Selective venous catheterization with parathyroid hormone assay is a valuable procedure in the diagnosis and treatment of parathyroid tumors. The multiple sampling via the femoral vein is sometimes frustratingly uncertain and time consuming. The technique herein described is simpler, quicker, and less hazardous. It is accomplished via the subclavian approach, a relatively easier anatomic way, and utilizes a short single-curve catheter that gives a high degree of torsion control.", "PMID": 433025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1428", "title": "Inflatable penile prosthesis: Mayo Clinic experience with 175 patients.", "content": "Sex prosthetics have become an established alternative of therapy for both the organically and the psychogenically impotent male patient. Functional success with the implantation of the inflatable penile prosthesis can be anticipated in 90 to 95 per cent of the patients. Both mechanical and pathologic complications occur, but with relatively low frequency. There have been no reported operative or postoperative deaths associated with the implantation of more than 6,000 devices. The availability of penile prostheses to impotent patients should be limited only by the patient's ability to meet the rigid criteria for selection of patients. When these criteria are fulfilled and the patient's expectations are in harmony with the known results that can be provided by implantation, uniformly successful results can be expected.", "contents": "Inflatable penile prosthesis: Mayo Clinic experience with 175 patients. Sex prosthetics have become an established alternative of therapy for both the organically and the psychogenically impotent male patient. Functional success with the implantation of the inflatable penile prosthesis can be anticipated in 90 to 95 per cent of the patients. Both mechanical and pathologic complications occur, but with relatively low frequency. There have been no reported operative or postoperative deaths associated with the implantation of more than 6,000 devices. The availability of penile prostheses to impotent patients should be limited only by the patient's ability to meet the rigid criteria for selection of patients. When these criteria are fulfilled and the patient's expectations are in harmony with the known results that can be provided by implantation, uniformly successful results can be expected.", "PMID": 433026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1429", "title": "Avulsion of ureter by blunt trauma.", "content": "Six cases of avulsion of the upper ureter by blunt trauma are presented: 5 in children and one in an adult. One of these also involved the entire renal pedicle. A review of the literature shows that this type of trauma is rare, about 30 cases having been reported. They are seen mostly in children, and the right kidney is more prone to injury. Often, there is absence of hematuria which leads to considerable delay in diagnosis and surgical repair. On account of this delay, hydronephrosis, infection, and sometimes pseudocyst formation can complicate the initial pathologic condition. Despite these delays, successful repair can be accomplished and the kidney salvaged. In some instances, as we found out in our cases, a retrograde pyelogram was helpful in establishing the diagnosis and localizing the site of the lesion preoperatively.", "contents": "Avulsion of ureter by blunt trauma. Six cases of avulsion of the upper ureter by blunt trauma are presented: 5 in children and one in an adult. One of these also involved the entire renal pedicle. A review of the literature shows that this type of trauma is rare, about 30 cases having been reported. They are seen mostly in children, and the right kidney is more prone to injury. Often, there is absence of hematuria which leads to considerable delay in diagnosis and surgical repair. On account of this delay, hydronephrosis, infection, and sometimes pseudocyst formation can complicate the initial pathologic condition. Despite these delays, successful repair can be accomplished and the kidney salvaged. In some instances, as we found out in our cases, a retrograde pyelogram was helpful in establishing the diagnosis and localizing the site of the lesion preoperatively.", "PMID": 433027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1430", "title": "Plasma androgens and estrogens in paraplegic men.", "content": "The plasma testosterone, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) levels were measured in paraplegic men and age-matched controls. Sephadex LH-20 columns and the celite technique were used to extract the sex steroids and a radioimmunoassay was used to measure them. Leydig cell stimulation was achieved with human chorionic gonadotropin administration.", "contents": "Plasma androgens and estrogens in paraplegic men. The plasma testosterone, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) levels were measured in paraplegic men and age-matched controls. Sephadex LH-20 columns and the celite technique were used to extract the sex steroids and a radioimmunoassay was used to measure them. Leydig cell stimulation was achieved with human chorionic gonadotropin administration.", "PMID": 433028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1431", "title": "Transcatheter renal artery embolization in treatment of ureterocutaneous fistula.", "content": "We report a case of a critically ill patient who had a ureterocutaneous fistula develop after placement of a Dacron bypass graft from the aorta to the right popliteal artery and the left femoral artery. We describe a successful nonsurgical method to terminate renal function in this patient, who was a poor operative risk.", "contents": "Transcatheter renal artery embolization in treatment of ureterocutaneous fistula. We report a case of a critically ill patient who had a ureterocutaneous fistula develop after placement of a Dacron bypass graft from the aorta to the right popliteal artery and the left femoral artery. We describe a successful nonsurgical method to terminate renal function in this patient, who was a poor operative risk.", "PMID": 433030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1432", "title": "Nonoperative diagnosis of pyelocalyceal deformity due to venous impressions.", "content": "Two patients with filling defects on films of the upper urinary tract caused by venous impressions are reported. To date, the literature includes 22 other cases. These cases are frequently associated with hematuria, flank or abdominal pain; the filling defect might be found incidentally during the evaluation of another problem. The two most frequent causes are varices--of renal vein, renal pelvic vein, ureteral veins, and normal renal vessels. Generally, the lesions were not diagnosed without surgical intervention. The filling defects of our cases were caused by other types of lesions. Their diagnosis was made nonoperatively through the use of intravenous pyelography, renal arteriography, and retrograde phlebography. Filling defects caused by venous impressions on the upper urinary tract should be diagnosed by the use of these three studies rather than surgically.", "contents": "Nonoperative diagnosis of pyelocalyceal deformity due to venous impressions. Two patients with filling defects on films of the upper urinary tract caused by venous impressions are reported. To date, the literature includes 22 other cases. These cases are frequently associated with hematuria, flank or abdominal pain; the filling defect might be found incidentally during the evaluation of another problem. The two most frequent causes are varices--of renal vein, renal pelvic vein, ureteral veins, and normal renal vessels. Generally, the lesions were not diagnosed without surgical intervention. The filling defects of our cases were caused by other types of lesions. Their diagnosis was made nonoperatively through the use of intravenous pyelography, renal arteriography, and retrograde phlebography. Filling defects caused by venous impressions on the upper urinary tract should be diagnosed by the use of these three studies rather than surgically.", "PMID": 433037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1433", "title": "Ultrasonic spectrum of adrenal masses.", "content": "Adrenal masses are amenable to ultrasonic examination. The ultrasonic characteristics of eight adrenal masses in 6 patients are described. In particular, an ultrasonic study of the natural history and progression of a large adrenal adenoma is reported. Adrenal masses on the right side may mimic right posterior liver masses on transverse scans alone. They may compress and displace the liver with expansion. Posterolateral impressions on the inferior vena cava occur. Differentiation from a superior pole renal mass is not always possible.", "contents": "Ultrasonic spectrum of adrenal masses. Adrenal masses are amenable to ultrasonic examination. The ultrasonic characteristics of eight adrenal masses in 6 patients are described. In particular, an ultrasonic study of the natural history and progression of a large adrenal adenoma is reported. Adrenal masses on the right side may mimic right posterior liver masses on transverse scans alone. They may compress and displace the liver with expansion. Posterolateral impressions on the inferior vena cava occur. Differentiation from a superior pole renal mass is not always possible.", "PMID": 433038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1434", "title": "Computed tomography in diagnosis of pelvic lipomatosis.", "content": "Pelvic lipomatosis is a disease characterized by abnormal deposition of mature adipose tissue within the confines of the pelvis surrounding the bladder, prostate, and rectosigmoid. The presenting symptoms are vague and nonspecific, and it has typical radiologic features. Computed tomography is extremely useful in the differential diagnosis because of its ability to differentiate fatty infiltration from other conditions which can cause elevation and compression of the urinary bladder and sigmoid colon. Computed tomographic confirmation of the presence of fat surrounding the bladder and rectum eliminates the need for surgical biopsy, unless indicated for other reasons. The course of this disease is usually benign and indolent, however a close follow-up is mandatory to rule out those cases in which ureteral obstruction may develop requiring surgical relief of the obstruction. When cystitis glandularis is found in association with pelvic lipomatosis, periodic cystoscopic examinations are recommended because of the potential risk of malignant transformation.", "contents": "Computed tomography in diagnosis of pelvic lipomatosis. Pelvic lipomatosis is a disease characterized by abnormal deposition of mature adipose tissue within the confines of the pelvis surrounding the bladder, prostate, and rectosigmoid. The presenting symptoms are vague and nonspecific, and it has typical radiologic features. Computed tomography is extremely useful in the differential diagnosis because of its ability to differentiate fatty infiltration from other conditions which can cause elevation and compression of the urinary bladder and sigmoid colon. Computed tomographic confirmation of the presence of fat surrounding the bladder and rectum eliminates the need for surgical biopsy, unless indicated for other reasons. The course of this disease is usually benign and indolent, however a close follow-up is mandatory to rule out those cases in which ureteral obstruction may develop requiring surgical relief of the obstruction. When cystitis glandularis is found in association with pelvic lipomatosis, periodic cystoscopic examinations are recommended because of the potential risk of malignant transformation.", "PMID": 433039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1435", "title": "Conservative surgical management for noninvasive distal ureteral carcinoma.", "content": "Distal ureterectomy with direct ureteroneocystostomy facilitated by the psoas bladder hitch procedure has been used in 6 patients for management of low-grade, noninvasive primary ureteral carcinoma. All patients are alive, two to ninety-six months postoperatively. Recurrent ipsilateral urothelial malignant disease has occurred in only 1 patient, twenty-six months postoperatively, necessitating a secondary nephroureterectomy. Renal function has been preserved in the remaining 5 patients. The continued practice of conservative surgery in these cases appears warranted.", "contents": "Conservative surgical management for noninvasive distal ureteral carcinoma. Distal ureterectomy with direct ureteroneocystostomy facilitated by the psoas bladder hitch procedure has been used in 6 patients for management of low-grade, noninvasive primary ureteral carcinoma. All patients are alive, two to ninety-six months postoperatively. Recurrent ipsilateral urothelial malignant disease has occurred in only 1 patient, twenty-six months postoperatively, necessitating a secondary nephroureterectomy. Renal function has been preserved in the remaining 5 patients. The continued practice of conservative surgery in these cases appears warranted.", "PMID": 433040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1436", "title": "Flap ureteroplasty for segmental structure of middle third of ureter.", "content": "A technique is described for repair of segmental stricture of the middle third of the ureter utilizing spiral or vertical flap from the proximal dilated ureter. In all cases a 10 F polyethylene ureteric stent with a ureterotomy exit 5 cm. distal to the repair site was used. Twenty-eight ureters in 27 patients were repaired by this technique, with good results in all except 3 cases which showed postoperative residual dilatation three months after surgery.", "contents": "Flap ureteroplasty for segmental structure of middle third of ureter. A technique is described for repair of segmental stricture of the middle third of the ureter utilizing spiral or vertical flap from the proximal dilated ureter. In all cases a 10 F polyethylene ureteric stent with a ureterotomy exit 5 cm. distal to the repair site was used. Twenty-eight ureters in 27 patients were repaired by this technique, with good results in all except 3 cases which showed postoperative residual dilatation three months after surgery.", "PMID": 433041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1437", "title": "Proximal stent displacement as complication of pigtail ureteral stent.", "content": "The indwelling ureteral stent recently introduced by Cook offers relative ease of placement with a self-curling end which prevents migration down the ureter. We have seen 4 cases of proximal migration of these stents. The reasons for this event are described. Our experience suggests the placement of a suture in the distal portion of the catheter to allow retrieval of the catheter should migration occur.", "contents": "Proximal stent displacement as complication of pigtail ureteral stent. The indwelling ureteral stent recently introduced by Cook offers relative ease of placement with a self-curling end which prevents migration down the ureter. We have seen 4 cases of proximal migration of these stents. The reasons for this event are described. Our experience suggests the placement of a suture in the distal portion of the catheter to allow retrieval of the catheter should migration occur.", "PMID": 433042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1438", "title": "Topical levarterenol in control of bladder hemorrhage.", "content": "Topical levarterenol was evaluated for the control of bladder hemorrhage. Its possible toxic effects were investigated in the intact dog bladder, and its use was compared with saline irrigations in experimental massive bladder hemorrhage. Eight mg.% levarterenol was found to be safe and effective in our model.", "contents": "Topical levarterenol in control of bladder hemorrhage. Topical levarterenol was evaluated for the control of bladder hemorrhage. Its possible toxic effects were investigated in the intact dog bladder, and its use was compared with saline irrigations in experimental massive bladder hemorrhage. Eight mg.% levarterenol was found to be safe and effective in our model.", "PMID": 433043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1439", "title": "Fibrous contracture of bladder neck: cause, prevention, and treatment.", "content": "Through a retrospective study of bladder neck contracture it was found that bladder neck resection and incision were equally effective for treatment of postoperative bladder neck contractures. It was also found that incising the bladder neck at the end of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) did not cause vesicoureteral reflux and did not improve the incidence of postoperative bladder neck contracture.", "contents": "Fibrous contracture of bladder neck: cause, prevention, and treatment. Through a retrospective study of bladder neck contracture it was found that bladder neck resection and incision were equally effective for treatment of postoperative bladder neck contractures. It was also found that incising the bladder neck at the end of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) did not cause vesicoureteral reflux and did not improve the incidence of postoperative bladder neck contracture.", "PMID": 433044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1440", "title": "Transurethral resection combined with steroid injection in treatment of recurrent vesical neck contractures.", "content": "Vesical neck contractures occur following 5 to 10 per cent of transurethral prostatectomies and an even smaller number of enucleative prostatectomies. Recurrences following both conservative and surgical treatment are common and present management problems to the urologist. Seven patients with recurrent vesical neck contractures were managed with reresection and steroid injection. One hundred per cent of patients responded to this although 1 patient required two procedures. The use of hydrocortisone sodium succinate (Solu-Cortef) versus triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog) preparations are discussed.", "contents": "Transurethral resection combined with steroid injection in treatment of recurrent vesical neck contractures. Vesical neck contractures occur following 5 to 10 per cent of transurethral prostatectomies and an even smaller number of enucleative prostatectomies. Recurrences following both conservative and surgical treatment are common and present management problems to the urologist. Seven patients with recurrent vesical neck contractures were managed with reresection and steroid injection. One hundred per cent of patients responded to this although 1 patient required two procedures. The use of hydrocortisone sodium succinate (Solu-Cortef) versus triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog) preparations are discussed.", "PMID": 433045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1441", "title": "Evaluation of female urinary incontinence device.", "content": "A new silicone rubber inflatable vaginal pessary has been evaluated in 33 patients with stress incontinence due to urethral sphincter dysfunction (genuine stress incontinence), confirmed by urodynamic assessment. Nine of 20 patients who used the device for one month showed subjective improvement and 2 patients have continued to use the device. Urodynamic changes include a marked increase in maximum urethral closure pressure and elevation of the bladder neck.", "contents": "Evaluation of female urinary incontinence device. A new silicone rubber inflatable vaginal pessary has been evaluated in 33 patients with stress incontinence due to urethral sphincter dysfunction (genuine stress incontinence), confirmed by urodynamic assessment. Nine of 20 patients who used the device for one month showed subjective improvement and 2 patients have continued to use the device. Urodynamic changes include a marked increase in maximum urethral closure pressure and elevation of the bladder neck.", "PMID": 433046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1442", "title": "Transient blindness: unusual initial symptom of transurethral prostatic resection reaction.", "content": "Transient blindness was seen in 2 patients undergoing transurethral resection (TUR) of the prostate as the initial symptom of a severe TUR reaction. Cerebral edema of the occipital cortex is the most probable mechanism. Both fully recovered their vision when appropriately treated. Patients with visual disturbances during transurethral prostatectomy should be suspected of having a TUR reaction.", "contents": "Transient blindness: unusual initial symptom of transurethral prostatic resection reaction. Transient blindness was seen in 2 patients undergoing transurethral resection (TUR) of the prostate as the initial symptom of a severe TUR reaction. Cerebral edema of the occipital cortex is the most probable mechanism. Both fully recovered their vision when appropriately treated. Patients with visual disturbances during transurethral prostatectomy should be suspected of having a TUR reaction.", "PMID": 433047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1443", "title": "Seminoma testis tumor with ipsilateral pelvic kidney.", "content": "Abdominal external beam radiation (3,000 rads) is our standard treatment for Stage A testicular seminoma. We have encountered 2 patients with localized seminomas, in each of whom excretory urography demonstrated an ipsilateral pelvic kidney. Because of significant risk of radiation nephritis and renal loss in the unshielded ectopic pelvic kideny, retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy is recommended in place of abdominal radiation.", "contents": "Seminoma testis tumor with ipsilateral pelvic kidney. Abdominal external beam radiation (3,000 rads) is our standard treatment for Stage A testicular seminoma. We have encountered 2 patients with localized seminomas, in each of whom excretory urography demonstrated an ipsilateral pelvic kidney. Because of significant risk of radiation nephritis and renal loss in the unshielded ectopic pelvic kideny, retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy is recommended in place of abdominal radiation.", "PMID": 433048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1444", "title": "Practical aspects of banking patient's semen for future artificial insemination.", "content": "The necessary information is provided for the urologist to answer the question, \"Doctor, can I freeze my semen before surgery and use it later to impregnate my wife?\" A listing of all semen banks presently storing homologous semen and registered with the American Association of Tissue Banks is presented. The methods used, ancillary tests that are done or recommended, and costs are provided. The logistics of arranging for deposits and withdrawals are also discussed.", "contents": "Practical aspects of banking patient's semen for future artificial insemination. The necessary information is provided for the urologist to answer the question, \"Doctor, can I freeze my semen before surgery and use it later to impregnate my wife?\" A listing of all semen banks presently storing homologous semen and registered with the American Association of Tissue Banks is presented. The methods used, ancillary tests that are done or recommended, and costs are provided. The logistics of arranging for deposits and withdrawals are also discussed.", "PMID": 433049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1445", "title": "Obstructing posterior urethral valves in octogenarian.", "content": "A unique case of bladder outlet obstruction secondary to posterior urethral valves in an octogenarian is presented.", "contents": "Obstructing posterior urethral valves in octogenarian. A unique case of bladder outlet obstruction secondary to posterior urethral valves in an octogenarian is presented.", "PMID": 433050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1446", "title": "Imipramine for aspermia after lymphadenectomy.", "content": "During radical retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy the hypogastric sympathetic plexus is necessarily partially sacrificed, with resultant failure of part of the ejaculatory mechanism and aspermia. We have observed this condition to be reversible with imipramine.", "contents": "Imipramine for aspermia after lymphadenectomy. During radical retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy the hypogastric sympathetic plexus is necessarily partially sacrificed, with resultant failure of part of the ejaculatory mechanism and aspermia. We have observed this condition to be reversible with imipramine.", "PMID": 433051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1447", "title": "Teratoma in horseshoe kidneys.", "content": "Renal tumors are uncommon, but they are significantly increased in horseshoe kidneys. Although nephroblastomas frequently occur in horseshoe kidneys of children, no teratoma has been observed in the past. A teratoma in the horseshoe kidney of a child with unusual congenital anomalies is described.", "contents": "Teratoma in horseshoe kidneys. Renal tumors are uncommon, but they are significantly increased in horseshoe kidneys. Although nephroblastomas frequently occur in horseshoe kidneys of children, no teratoma has been observed in the past. A teratoma in the horseshoe kidney of a child with unusual congenital anomalies is described.", "PMID": 433058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1448", "title": "Fibroxanthosarcoma of kidney.", "content": "The clinicopathologic features of a case of fibroxanthosarcoma of the kidney are reported. This case represents the third reported case in the literature. The nine-year disease-free survival following nephrectomy in this case suggests that this tumor may have a prognosis different from that of the renal cell adenocarcinoma and that reporting of additional cases should be encouraged.", "contents": "Fibroxanthosarcoma of kidney. The clinicopathologic features of a case of fibroxanthosarcoma of the kidney are reported. This case represents the third reported case in the literature. The nine-year disease-free survival following nephrectomy in this case suggests that this tumor may have a prognosis different from that of the renal cell adenocarcinoma and that reporting of additional cases should be encouraged.", "PMID": 433059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1449", "title": "Gray scale ultrasound in identification of lymphoma complicating lymphomatoid granulomatosis.", "content": "Lymphomatoid granulomatosis is a necrotizing vasculitis involving multiple organs which may be associated with lymphomatous transformation. A case of lymphomatoid granulomatosis is presented in which gray scale ultrasound identified lymphomatous transformation involving the right kidney and retroperitoneum, thus preventing unnecessary surgery. Ultrasound is a valuable modality for identifying and characterizing abdominal masses in patients at risk for neoplastic disease.", "contents": "Gray scale ultrasound in identification of lymphoma complicating lymphomatoid granulomatosis. Lymphomatoid granulomatosis is a necrotizing vasculitis involving multiple organs which may be associated with lymphomatous transformation. A case of lymphomatoid granulomatosis is presented in which gray scale ultrasound identified lymphomatous transformation involving the right kidney and retroperitoneum, thus preventing unnecessary surgery. Ultrasound is a valuable modality for identifying and characterizing abdominal masses in patients at risk for neoplastic disease.", "PMID": 433061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1450", "title": "Renal hemangioma: cause of massive hematuria.", "content": "Renal hemangiomas are an unusual cause of renal hematuria. Although a preoperative diagnosis of renal hemangioma is not always possible, the diagnosis of this case of marked blood loss from a renal hemangioma was made angiographically. The clinical characteristics of hemangiomas, as well as the use of angiography in the investigation of hematuria, are discussed.", "contents": "Renal hemangioma: cause of massive hematuria. Renal hemangiomas are an unusual cause of renal hematuria. Although a preoperative diagnosis of renal hemangioma is not always possible, the diagnosis of this case of marked blood loss from a renal hemangioma was made angiographically. The clinical characteristics of hemangiomas, as well as the use of angiography in the investigation of hematuria, are discussed.", "PMID": 433062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1451", "title": "In vitro study of antispasmodic effects of dicyclomine hydrochloride on vesicourethral smooth muscle of guinea pig and rabbit.", "content": "Dicyclomine inhibition of acetylcholine-induced and barium chloride-induced isotonic contractions of the smooth muscle from three segments of the lower urinary tract (bladder body, bladder base, and proximal urethra) of the guinea pig and the rabbit was studied in vitro. In the guinea pig dicyclomine caused competitive inhibition of acetylcholine-induced contraction of the bladder body (1 x 10(-7) M to 1 x 10(-5) M) and the bladder base (1 x 10(-6) M, 1 X 10(-5) M) and was less potent than atropine and propantheline. In the rabbit significant blockade of acetylcholine-induced contractions occurred at dicyclomine concentrations of 5 x 10(-6) M to 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder body and at 1 x 10(-5) M and 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder base. In both species dicyclomine inhibitory effects were most marked in the bladder body, moderate in the bladder base, and minimal in the proximal urethra. Dicyclomine failed to cause inhibition of the barium chloride-induced contractions in the guinea pig vesicourethral smooth muscle. In rabbits, however, significant antagonism P less than 0.01) of barium chloride-induced muscle contraction was observed with dicyclomine at concentration 1 x 10(-5) M in both bladder body and the bladder base. The clinical implication of such properties of dicyclomine are discussed.", "contents": "In vitro study of antispasmodic effects of dicyclomine hydrochloride on vesicourethral smooth muscle of guinea pig and rabbit. Dicyclomine inhibition of acetylcholine-induced and barium chloride-induced isotonic contractions of the smooth muscle from three segments of the lower urinary tract (bladder body, bladder base, and proximal urethra) of the guinea pig and the rabbit was studied in vitro. In the guinea pig dicyclomine caused competitive inhibition of acetylcholine-induced contraction of the bladder body (1 x 10(-7) M to 1 x 10(-5) M) and the bladder base (1 x 10(-6) M, 1 X 10(-5) M) and was less potent than atropine and propantheline. In the rabbit significant blockade of acetylcholine-induced contractions occurred at dicyclomine concentrations of 5 x 10(-6) M to 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder body and at 1 x 10(-5) M and 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder base. In both species dicyclomine inhibitory effects were most marked in the bladder body, moderate in the bladder base, and minimal in the proximal urethra. Dicyclomine failed to cause inhibition of the barium chloride-induced contractions in the guinea pig vesicourethral smooth muscle. In rabbits, however, significant antagonism P less than 0.01) of barium chloride-induced muscle contraction was observed with dicyclomine at concentration 1 x 10(-5) M in both bladder body and the bladder base. The clinical implication of such properties of dicyclomine are discussed.", "PMID": 433063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1452", "title": "Pressure recording catheter.", "content": "A simple, inexpensive pressure-recording balloon system to determine abdominal or rectal sphincter pressures without difficulty is described.", "contents": "Pressure recording catheter. A simple, inexpensive pressure-recording balloon system to determine abdominal or rectal sphincter pressures without difficulty is described.", "PMID": 433064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1453", "title": "[Treatment of acute pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis with accompanying diabetes mellitus].", "content": "A clinically reliable diabetes mellitus was present in 7.5% of 386 patients with pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis. In a number of these patients (6.4%) diabetes mellitus was an immediate aftermath of recurrent pancreatitis. After having carried out sugar tolerance test in 104 patients with pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis the authors showed a potential risk of the occurrence of diabetes mellitus. Only administration of simple insulin under a permanent laboratory control should be used. When determining the indications for operation one ought to remember about the possibility of the occurrence of pseudoperitoneal syndrome.", "contents": "[Treatment of acute pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis with accompanying diabetes mellitus]. A clinically reliable diabetes mellitus was present in 7.5% of 386 patients with pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis. In a number of these patients (6.4%) diabetes mellitus was an immediate aftermath of recurrent pancreatitis. After having carried out sugar tolerance test in 104 patients with pancreatitis and cholecystopancreatitis the authors showed a potential risk of the occurrence of diabetes mellitus. Only administration of simple insulin under a permanent laboratory control should be used. When determining the indications for operation one ought to remember about the possibility of the occurrence of pseudoperitoneal syndrome.", "PMID": 433083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1454", "title": "[Repeated operations in the treatment of cancer of the extrahepatic biliary tracts].", "content": "Repeated interventions in carcinoma of the ducts were carried out upon 14 patients. The operations happened to be very beneficial for the most of patients and raised the survival period by 3 month to 2 years 4 months. The clinical course of carcinoma of the gallbladder is the most unfavorable. Only in 1 of 3 cases with mechanical jaundice--an aftermath of carcinoma of the gallbladder--the repeated intervention resulted in the formation of the biliodigestive anastomosis. Repeated interventions in carcinoma of the extrahepatic bile ducts are expedient and should enter the scope of routine interventions.", "contents": "[Repeated operations in the treatment of cancer of the extrahepatic biliary tracts]. Repeated interventions in carcinoma of the ducts were carried out upon 14 patients. The operations happened to be very beneficial for the most of patients and raised the survival period by 3 month to 2 years 4 months. The clinical course of carcinoma of the gallbladder is the most unfavorable. Only in 1 of 3 cases with mechanical jaundice--an aftermath of carcinoma of the gallbladder--the repeated intervention resulted in the formation of the biliodigestive anastomosis. Repeated interventions in carcinoma of the extrahepatic bile ducts are expedient and should enter the scope of routine interventions.", "PMID": 433084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1455", "title": "[Treatment of acute mediastinitis].", "content": "The observations concern 41 patients with acute mediastinitis. 35 of them were operated upon; 28 of these patients recovered, and 7 (20%) died. 3 of 6 patients subjected to the conservative treatment died. The authors' experience proves that the possibility of improving the outcomes in acute mediastinitis correlates directly with an early diagnosis of this severe disease and an early surgical intervention.", "contents": "[Treatment of acute mediastinitis]. The observations concern 41 patients with acute mediastinitis. 35 of them were operated upon; 28 of these patients recovered, and 7 (20%) died. 3 of 6 patients subjected to the conservative treatment died. The authors' experience proves that the possibility of improving the outcomes in acute mediastinitis correlates directly with an early diagnosis of this severe disease and an early surgical intervention.", "PMID": 433086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1456", "title": "[Structural changes in the lung and the serum lipid content in pulmonary hypertension after an experimental pulmonectomy].", "content": "In the experiments on 20 dogs with the left-side pulmonectomy it has been shown that the removal of one lung results in a progressive rise of the pulmonary circulation blood pressure which, in turn, causes some changes in the structure of the lung and of its function in the lipid metabolism.", "contents": "[Structural changes in the lung and the serum lipid content in pulmonary hypertension after an experimental pulmonectomy]. In the experiments on 20 dogs with the left-side pulmonectomy it has been shown that the removal of one lung results in a progressive rise of the pulmonary circulation blood pressure which, in turn, causes some changes in the structure of the lung and of its function in the lipid metabolism.", "PMID": 433087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1457", "title": "[Lethality in postoperative peritonitis and the characteristics of its clinical diagnosis].", "content": "Within 30 years of their work the authors observed 151 cases of postoperative peritonitis, which made 1.1% of all the laparotomies carried out during this time. None of the known symptoms of peritonitis can be taken as a constant sign of this dangerous complication. In the early recognition of postoperative peritonitis and the determination of the indications for repeated laparotomy the experience of a surgeon, well acquainted with the diagnosis of postoperative complications in the abdominal organs, is the most essential. The diagnostic laparotomy (microlaparotomy) is quite justified even in case when peritonitis symptoms are not well marked, but a progressive general intoxication cannot be explained through any other causes.", "contents": "[Lethality in postoperative peritonitis and the characteristics of its clinical diagnosis]. Within 30 years of their work the authors observed 151 cases of postoperative peritonitis, which made 1.1% of all the laparotomies carried out during this time. None of the known symptoms of peritonitis can be taken as a constant sign of this dangerous complication. In the early recognition of postoperative peritonitis and the determination of the indications for repeated laparotomy the experience of a surgeon, well acquainted with the diagnosis of postoperative complications in the abdominal organs, is the most essential. The diagnostic laparotomy (microlaparotomy) is quite justified even in case when peritonitis symptoms are not well marked, but a progressive general intoxication cannot be explained through any other causes.", "PMID": 433088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1458", "title": "[Problems in the surgical treatment of the thromboembolic complications of rheumatism].", "content": "After having studied the results of the surgical and conservative treatment in thromboses and emboli of the aorta and main arteries of the limbs in 32 patients with rheumatism the authors note a high percentage of mortality and postoperative complications. A valuable intense antirheumatic therapy, complex of measures combating inclusion syndrome allow to improve the results of the treatment of these severe cases.", "contents": "[Problems in the surgical treatment of the thromboembolic complications of rheumatism]. After having studied the results of the surgical and conservative treatment in thromboses and emboli of the aorta and main arteries of the limbs in 32 patients with rheumatism the authors note a high percentage of mortality and postoperative complications. A valuable intense antirheumatic therapy, complex of measures combating inclusion syndrome allow to improve the results of the treatment of these severe cases.", "PMID": 433089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1459", "title": "[Restorative operations in atherosclerotic lesions of the arteries of the lower extremities and severe ischemia].", "content": "The results of surgical treatment of patients with atherosclerotic occlusion of the lower extremities arteries have been analysed. In 29 of 45 patients with severe ischemia of the lower extremities regional circulation disorders of stage III and in 16 patients of stage IV (gangrene) were found. The preservation of the peripheral vascular bed served as an indication for operation. The effect of the surgery was assessed on the basis of the analysis of immediate and late results. The authors believe that an adequately performed restorative operation allows to obtain good late results in 70% of patients operated upon in stage III and in 50% of those operated upon in stage IV of regional circulation disorders.", "contents": "[Restorative operations in atherosclerotic lesions of the arteries of the lower extremities and severe ischemia]. The results of surgical treatment of patients with atherosclerotic occlusion of the lower extremities arteries have been analysed. In 29 of 45 patients with severe ischemia of the lower extremities regional circulation disorders of stage III and in 16 patients of stage IV (gangrene) were found. The preservation of the peripheral vascular bed served as an indication for operation. The effect of the surgery was assessed on the basis of the analysis of immediate and late results. The authors believe that an adequately performed restorative operation allows to obtain good late results in 70% of patients operated upon in stage III and in 50% of those operated upon in stage IV of regional circulation disorders.", "PMID": 433090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1460", "title": "[Modified technic of puncture and catheterization of the femoral vessels in children and its effect on blood circulation to the extremities].", "content": "A modified technique of puncture and catheterization of the femoral vessels in children and a detailed description of the stages of the examination are presented. An analysis of 350 angiographies with the use of the modified puncture and catheterization technique in children aged from 1 month to 15 years was carried out. Technical errors were noted in 16 children (4.3%) and complications in 3 (0.85%). The presented observations prove that the given modification of the catheterization technique is not a very traumatic one and allows to avoid many undesirable complications which may arise especially at the stage of mastering the described method.", "contents": "[Modified technic of puncture and catheterization of the femoral vessels in children and its effect on blood circulation to the extremities]. A modified technique of puncture and catheterization of the femoral vessels in children and a detailed description of the stages of the examination are presented. An analysis of 350 angiographies with the use of the modified puncture and catheterization technique in children aged from 1 month to 15 years was carried out. Technical errors were noted in 16 children (4.3%) and complications in 3 (0.85%). The presented observations prove that the given modification of the catheterization technique is not a very traumatic one and allows to avoid many undesirable complications which may arise especially at the stage of mastering the described method.", "PMID": 433096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1461", "title": "[Surgical correction of skeletal deformations in children with osteoarticular tuberculosis].", "content": "On the grounds of the experience with the surgical treatment of 268 children of different age with tuberculosis of the spine and big joints the types of surgical interventions, aimed at the correction, prevention or elimination of marked skeletal deformities concomitant with the main disease are defined. A high effectiveness of early necrotomies in the prophylaxis of such deformities is emphasized. A critical assessment of resection of the main joints in children of the first 7 to 9 years of age is given, and the indications for this operation are restricted.", "contents": "[Surgical correction of skeletal deformations in children with osteoarticular tuberculosis]. On the grounds of the experience with the surgical treatment of 268 children of different age with tuberculosis of the spine and big joints the types of surgical interventions, aimed at the correction, prevention or elimination of marked skeletal deformities concomitant with the main disease are defined. A high effectiveness of early necrotomies in the prophylaxis of such deformities is emphasized. A critical assessment of resection of the main joints in children of the first 7 to 9 years of age is given, and the indications for this operation are restricted.", "PMID": 433097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1462", "title": "[Role of comprehensive mass prophylactic examinations in detecting breast cancer].", "content": "The current methods of an active recognition of cancer of the mammary gland are not effective enough. 84% of 950 patients treated in the P. A. Hertsen Oncologic Institute found their tumors themselves. A complex prophylactic examination organized by the workers of the Institute has proved to be the most simple and effective method of the detection of mammary gland cancer.", "contents": "[Role of comprehensive mass prophylactic examinations in detecting breast cancer]. The current methods of an active recognition of cancer of the mammary gland are not effective enough. 84% of 950 patients treated in the P. A. Hertsen Oncologic Institute found their tumors themselves. A complex prophylactic examination organized by the workers of the Institute has proved to be the most simple and effective method of the detection of mammary gland cancer.", "PMID": 433100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1463", "title": "Experimental Sarcoptes scabiei infestation in pigs: (1) pathogenesis.", "content": "Animals were experimentally infested with Sarcoptes scabiei var suis at weekly intervals between birth and five weeks of age. Excoriations were observed on the luminal surface of the ear seven days after the initial infestation. Encrusted lesions developed in the ears of all pigs between the third and eighth weeks but spontaneously regressed and disappeared by the 14th week. A generalised pruritus, accompanied by focal erythematous skin lesions developed in a majority of pigs between seven and 11 weeks of age. The presence of pruritus was associated with an eosinophilia and histological changes in the skin which were consistent with an allergic reaction. The results are discussed in relation to their diagnostic significance and their importance in the control and eradication of the disease.", "contents": "Experimental Sarcoptes scabiei infestation in pigs: (1) pathogenesis. Animals were experimentally infested with Sarcoptes scabiei var suis at weekly intervals between birth and five weeks of age. Excoriations were observed on the luminal surface of the ear seven days after the initial infestation. Encrusted lesions developed in the ears of all pigs between the third and eighth weeks but spontaneously regressed and disappeared by the 14th week. A generalised pruritus, accompanied by focal erythematous skin lesions developed in a majority of pigs between seven and 11 weeks of age. The presence of pruritus was associated with an eosinophilia and histological changes in the skin which were consistent with an allergic reaction. The results are discussed in relation to their diagnostic significance and their importance in the control and eradication of the disease.", "PMID": 433101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1464", "title": "Diagnostic aspects of cerebrocortical necrosis.", "content": "Specimens from cattle and sheep suspected of having cerebrocortical necrosis (CCN) were studied. Rumenal contents were examined for thiaminase-producing bacteria. Thiaminase activity was assessed in rumenal contents. The thiamine concentration of liver, brain and heart was determined and erythrocyte transketolase assessed. Diagnosis in each case, whether positive or negative for CCN, was decided by histopathological examination. There was a substantial agreement between the biochemical findings and the histological diagnosis indicating that a provisional diagnosis may be made on clinical and biochemical data alone. The findings are discussed in relation to other diseases which have the same neuropathological features. Attempts to isolate thiaminase-producing bacteria, which may be implicated in the aetiology of CCN, were inconclusive.", "contents": "Diagnostic aspects of cerebrocortical necrosis. Specimens from cattle and sheep suspected of having cerebrocortical necrosis (CCN) were studied. Rumenal contents were examined for thiaminase-producing bacteria. Thiaminase activity was assessed in rumenal contents. The thiamine concentration of liver, brain and heart was determined and erythrocyte transketolase assessed. Diagnosis in each case, whether positive or negative for CCN, was decided by histopathological examination. There was a substantial agreement between the biochemical findings and the histological diagnosis indicating that a provisional diagnosis may be made on clinical and biochemical data alone. The findings are discussed in relation to other diseases which have the same neuropathological features. Attempts to isolate thiaminase-producing bacteria, which may be implicated in the aetiology of CCN, were inconclusive.", "PMID": 433105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1465", "title": "Seasonal reproductive inefficiency in large pig breeding units in Britain.", "content": "The reproductive performance of five large, intensive pig breeding units was monitored over a period of 930 days. During this time three periods of reproductive inefficiency were noted, these mainly involving animals served during the summer months of July and August. Manifestations of this inefficiency were returns of oestrus, abortions and animals reaching 95 days of presumed gestation not-in-pig. It is suggested that ambient temperature stress, a hitherto unidentified arbortifacient factor, and a seasonal tendency towards suboestrus may have been contributory factors.", "contents": "Seasonal reproductive inefficiency in large pig breeding units in Britain. The reproductive performance of five large, intensive pig breeding units was monitored over a period of 930 days. During this time three periods of reproductive inefficiency were noted, these mainly involving animals served during the summer months of July and August. Manifestations of this inefficiency were returns of oestrus, abortions and animals reaching 95 days of presumed gestation not-in-pig. It is suggested that ambient temperature stress, a hitherto unidentified arbortifacient factor, and a seasonal tendency towards suboestrus may have been contributory factors.", "PMID": 433107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1466", "title": "Post mortem survey of diseases in young rabbits.", "content": "Over 25 conditions were identified in 417 rabbits dying within the first six months of life. Conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract were the most common and involved 124 (29.7 per cent) and 81 (19.4 per cent) cases. No obvious gross lesions were identified in 161 (38.7 per cent) of the animals.", "contents": "Post mortem survey of diseases in young rabbits. Over 25 conditions were identified in 417 rabbits dying within the first six months of life. Conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract were the most common and involved 124 (29.7 per cent) and 81 (19.4 per cent) cases. No obvious gross lesions were identified in 161 (38.7 per cent) of the animals.", "PMID": 433108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1467", "title": "Diseases produced by feline caliciviruses when administered to cats by aerosol or intranasal instillation.", "content": "Specific pathogen free cats were infected by two feline calicivirus isolates of different plaque type, an extra-large plaque (ep) former and a minute plaque (mp) former. A comparison was made of the disease produced when these isolates were administered by either aerosol or direct intranasal instillation. With both isolates, aerosol infection produced lesions and gave rise to virus replication throughout the respiratory tract. The effects of intranasal infection were more confined to the upper respiratory tract and oropharynx. By both routes of infection the disease produced by the mp virus was clinically and pathologically less severe than that produced by the ep virus.", "contents": "Diseases produced by feline caliciviruses when administered to cats by aerosol or intranasal instillation. Specific pathogen free cats were infected by two feline calicivirus isolates of different plaque type, an extra-large plaque (ep) former and a minute plaque (mp) former. A comparison was made of the disease produced when these isolates were administered by either aerosol or direct intranasal instillation. With both isolates, aerosol infection produced lesions and gave rise to virus replication throughout the respiratory tract. The effects of intranasal infection were more confined to the upper respiratory tract and oropharynx. By both routes of infection the disease produced by the mp virus was clinically and pathologically less severe than that produced by the ep virus.", "PMID": 433113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1468", "title": "Identification of spring viraemia in carp (Cyprinus carpio L) in Great Britain.", "content": "An investigation into a mortality of carp revealed a virus which was identified serologically and morphologically as being identical to SVC virus. SVC is a serious disease of European carp farms and this is the first positive identification of this disease in Great Britain.", "contents": "Identification of spring viraemia in carp (Cyprinus carpio L) in Great Britain. An investigation into a mortality of carp revealed a virus which was identified serologically and morphologically as being identical to SVC virus. SVC is a serious disease of European carp farms and this is the first positive identification of this disease in Great Britain.", "PMID": 433114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1469", "title": "Sensitivity in vitro to dimetridazole of treponemes associated with swine dysentery.", "content": "The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of dimetridazole (DMZ) against Treponema hyodysenteriae (55 isolates) obtained over the period 1974-77 from individual pigs with swine dysentery from 41 herds where DMZ had been in use was determined. The MIC was less than or equal to 5.0 microgram per ml for 54 of the isolates and differences in the distribution of MICs between the annual sampling periods were not significant (P less than 0.05). There was no decrease in sensitivity of T hyodysenteriae to DMZ during the survey.", "contents": "Sensitivity in vitro to dimetridazole of treponemes associated with swine dysentery. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of dimetridazole (DMZ) against Treponema hyodysenteriae (55 isolates) obtained over the period 1974-77 from individual pigs with swine dysentery from 41 herds where DMZ had been in use was determined. The MIC was less than or equal to 5.0 microgram per ml for 54 of the isolates and differences in the distribution of MICs between the annual sampling periods were not significant (P less than 0.05). There was no decrease in sensitivity of T hyodysenteriae to DMZ during the survey.", "PMID": 433115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1470", "title": "Biosynthesis of the oligosaccharides of influenza viral glycoproteins.", "content": "Glycosylation of influenza viral glycoproteins was investigated by pulse-labeling of infected BHK21-F cells with radioactive sugar precursors and by cell fractionation and analysis of Pronase-digested viral glycopeptides by gel filtration. The results with short pulses of [3H]mannose suggested that the initial event in glycosylation is the en bloc transfer of oligomannosyl cores to viral glycoproteins associated with rough membranes. The molecular weight of the glycopeptides which represent the cores was estimated to be approximately 1600-2200. Some mannose residues appear to be subsequently removed from oligosaccharide cores. [3H]mannose-labeled glycopeptides obtained either from cells pulsed for brief periods or from rough membranes, which contain predominantly oligosaccharide cores, were sensitive to digestion by endo-p-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (endo-H). On the other hand, glycopeptides larger than oligosaccharide cores, which appeared during chases or after migration of viral glycoproteins from rough to smooth membranes, were resistant to endo-H treatment. The branched sugars (glucosamine, galactose, and fucose), which are contained only in the complex (type I) oligosaccharide chains of virions, appear to be added in a stepwise manner to the trimmed oligosaccharide cores primarily on smooth membranes. Mannoserich glycopeptides of virions (type II) are similar in size to oligosaccharide cores detected in infected cells and are totally sensitive to endo-H, suggesting that type II glycopeptides may represent oligomannosyl cores which escape trimming as well as addition of branched sugars. Comparison of glycopeptides of infected and uninfected BHK21-F cells suggests that influenza viral glycoproteins contain oligosaccharide chains similar in size to those of host cells except for the absence of sialic acid in viral glycoproteins. Further, we observed that intracytoplasmic membranes from infected cells contain much less sialic acid than those from uninfected cells, indicating that viral neuraminidase present in the interior of infected cells possesses enzymatic activity.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of the oligosaccharides of influenza viral glycoproteins. Glycosylation of influenza viral glycoproteins was investigated by pulse-labeling of infected BHK21-F cells with radioactive sugar precursors and by cell fractionation and analysis of Pronase-digested viral glycopeptides by gel filtration. The results with short pulses of [3H]mannose suggested that the initial event in glycosylation is the en bloc transfer of oligomannosyl cores to viral glycoproteins associated with rough membranes. The molecular weight of the glycopeptides which represent the cores was estimated to be approximately 1600-2200. Some mannose residues appear to be subsequently removed from oligosaccharide cores. [3H]mannose-labeled glycopeptides obtained either from cells pulsed for brief periods or from rough membranes, which contain predominantly oligosaccharide cores, were sensitive to digestion by endo-p-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (endo-H). On the other hand, glycopeptides larger than oligosaccharide cores, which appeared during chases or after migration of viral glycoproteins from rough to smooth membranes, were resistant to endo-H treatment. The branched sugars (glucosamine, galactose, and fucose), which are contained only in the complex (type I) oligosaccharide chains of virions, appear to be added in a stepwise manner to the trimmed oligosaccharide cores primarily on smooth membranes. Mannoserich glycopeptides of virions (type II) are similar in size to oligosaccharide cores detected in infected cells and are totally sensitive to endo-H, suggesting that type II glycopeptides may represent oligomannosyl cores which escape trimming as well as addition of branched sugars. Comparison of glycopeptides of infected and uninfected BHK21-F cells suggests that influenza viral glycoproteins contain oligosaccharide chains similar in size to those of host cells except for the absence of sialic acid in viral glycoproteins. Further, we observed that intracytoplasmic membranes from infected cells contain much less sialic acid than those from uninfected cells, indicating that viral neuraminidase present in the interior of infected cells possesses enzymatic activity.", "PMID": 433157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1471", "title": "[Tissue factors in the pathogenesis of thrombus formation in oncological gynecology patients].", "content": "Under study were coagulation and fibrinolytic properties of cancerous tumor, their role in the ethiopathogenesis of thromb-formation is defined. It was found that the cervical tissue involved contains a large quantity of thromboplastic substances and shows an intense antiheparin, antithrombin and antifibrinolytic activity.", "contents": "[Tissue factors in the pathogenesis of thrombus formation in oncological gynecology patients]. Under study were coagulation and fibrinolytic properties of cancerous tumor, their role in the ethiopathogenesis of thromb-formation is defined. It was found that the cervical tissue involved contains a large quantity of thromboplastic substances and shows an intense antiheparin, antithrombin and antifibrinolytic activity.", "PMID": 433197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1472", "title": "[Retroperitoneal \"lymphatic cysts\" after radical operations in uterine cancer].", "content": "The authors report the results of studying the complications of iliac lymphadenectomy--lymphocysts developed after radical operations in 16 of 415 operated patients with cancer of the uterus. The method of indirect radioisotope lymphography may be considered to be the most simple method of detecting lymphatic cysts. Small size lymphocysts require no special surgical intervention. Extensive incapsulated lymph accumulation renders mandatory the incision and drainage of the lymphocyst in the iliac region at the site of the involvement. The most rational prophylactic measures against lymphocysts seem to be the provision for active lymph outflow by vacuum drainage.", "contents": "[Retroperitoneal \"lymphatic cysts\" after radical operations in uterine cancer]. The authors report the results of studying the complications of iliac lymphadenectomy--lymphocysts developed after radical operations in 16 of 415 operated patients with cancer of the uterus. The method of indirect radioisotope lymphography may be considered to be the most simple method of detecting lymphatic cysts. Small size lymphocysts require no special surgical intervention. Extensive incapsulated lymph accumulation renders mandatory the incision and drainage of the lymphocyst in the iliac region at the site of the involvement. The most rational prophylactic measures against lymphocysts seem to be the provision for active lymph outflow by vacuum drainage.", "PMID": 433198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1473", "title": "[Characteristics of the metastasis of endometrioid cancer of the ovaries into the greater omentum].", "content": "The study is based on the authors' personal material (81 patients). It was found that malignant endometrioid ovarian tumors invade metastatically the greater omentum more rarely than serous carcinomas--in 42% according to our findings, versus 60--80% as reported in the literature with regard to serous neoplasms. Metastases of endometrioid carcinoma into the omentum are more frequently observed in patients over 40. Ascitic fluid is found in 38% of the patients, that is twice as rare as in serous cystic adenocarcinomas.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the metastasis of endometrioid cancer of the ovaries into the greater omentum]. The study is based on the authors' personal material (81 patients). It was found that malignant endometrioid ovarian tumors invade metastatically the greater omentum more rarely than serous carcinomas--in 42% according to our findings, versus 60--80% as reported in the literature with regard to serous neoplasms. Metastases of endometrioid carcinoma into the omentum are more frequently observed in patients over 40. Ascitic fluid is found in 38% of the patients, that is twice as rare as in serous cystic adenocarcinomas.", "PMID": 433199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1474", "title": "[Characteristics of the uterine mucosa in cervix dysplasia].", "content": "In dysplasia of the vaginal cervix every 7th patient (in 68 of 500) showed hyperplastic and metaplasic changes in the mucous membrane of the cervical canal and 1 per cent--Ca in situ of the cervical canal. Females with different forms of dysplasia of the vaginal portion of the cervix should be referred to the high risk groups in cancer. They should be subjected to separate curetting of the cervical canal and uterine cavity to avert intraepithelial or initial forms of the invasive cancer in this area.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the uterine mucosa in cervix dysplasia]. In dysplasia of the vaginal cervix every 7th patient (in 68 of 500) showed hyperplastic and metaplasic changes in the mucous membrane of the cervical canal and 1 per cent--Ca in situ of the cervical canal. Females with different forms of dysplasia of the vaginal portion of the cervix should be referred to the high risk groups in cancer. They should be subjected to separate curetting of the cervical canal and uterine cavity to avert intraepithelial or initial forms of the invasive cancer in this area.", "PMID": 433200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1475", "title": "[Endometrioid neoplasms of the ovaries with calcareous inclusions].", "content": "The author reports 35 personal observations of endometrioid ovarian neoplasms with cacific inclusions. It was found that calcification is characteristic not only of serous neoplasms. It is not infrequently noted in endometriosis, endometrioid cysts and endometrioid cancers of the ovary. The topography and form of calcific deposits in endometrioid structures are varied, especially in ovarian endometriosis. It is the dystrophic process, which is not a sign of a poor prognosis, that is responsible for the occurrence of calcification. An objective estimation of the differential significance of calcific concretions may allow the timely diagnosis of endometrioid ovarian adenocarcinoma and using the appropriate therapeutic measures.", "contents": "[Endometrioid neoplasms of the ovaries with calcareous inclusions]. The author reports 35 personal observations of endometrioid ovarian neoplasms with cacific inclusions. It was found that calcification is characteristic not only of serous neoplasms. It is not infrequently noted in endometriosis, endometrioid cysts and endometrioid cancers of the ovary. The topography and form of calcific deposits in endometrioid structures are varied, especially in ovarian endometriosis. It is the dystrophic process, which is not a sign of a poor prognosis, that is responsible for the occurrence of calcification. An objective estimation of the differential significance of calcific concretions may allow the timely diagnosis of endometrioid ovarian adenocarcinoma and using the appropriate therapeutic measures.", "PMID": 433201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1476", "title": "[Cell viability after cryodestruction of the tumor].", "content": "By histoautoradiography DNA was determined in the Heren carcinoma cells during the first 6 days after cryosurgery of the tumor. During 2.5 days after cryosurgery no labeled cells in the cryodestructed tissue were detected. The DNA synthesizing cells were revealed in separate portions of some tumors 66 hours and longer following cryosurgery. The absence of labeled cells during 66 hours since the moment of cryoexposure indicates the block of DNA synthesis in cryoresistant tumor cells. It evidences that the cells which remained viable after cryosurgery were the cause of the recurrences observed.", "contents": "[Cell viability after cryodestruction of the tumor]. By histoautoradiography DNA was determined in the Heren carcinoma cells during the first 6 days after cryosurgery of the tumor. During 2.5 days after cryosurgery no labeled cells in the cryodestructed tissue were detected. The DNA synthesizing cells were revealed in separate portions of some tumors 66 hours and longer following cryosurgery. The absence of labeled cells during 66 hours since the moment of cryoexposure indicates the block of DNA synthesis in cryoresistant tumor cells. It evidences that the cells which remained viable after cryosurgery were the cause of the recurrences observed.", "PMID": 433202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1477", "title": "[Kinetics of macromolecular carbamoylation in normal and tumor cells after the administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-14CO].", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-14CO (14CO-MNU) was investigated in hepatoma 22a tumor-bearing and normal mice at various time after a single intravenous injection (80 mg/kg). The rapid clearance of 14CO-MNU from plasma of the mice was observed 5 hours following the administration of the drug. Peak levels of radioactivity in the hepatoma were noted 48 hours after the administration of 14CO-MNU, while the liver, kidney, spleen and intestinal epithelium showed an insignificant radioactivity at this time both in normal and tumor-bearing mice. The analysis of the radioactivity distribution among macromolecules (DNA, RNA, protein) and lipids indicated the highest label in lipids of all organs.", "contents": "[Kinetics of macromolecular carbamoylation in normal and tumor cells after the administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-14CO]. The pharmacokinetics of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-14CO (14CO-MNU) was investigated in hepatoma 22a tumor-bearing and normal mice at various time after a single intravenous injection (80 mg/kg). The rapid clearance of 14CO-MNU from plasma of the mice was observed 5 hours following the administration of the drug. Peak levels of radioactivity in the hepatoma were noted 48 hours after the administration of 14CO-MNU, while the liver, kidney, spleen and intestinal epithelium showed an insignificant radioactivity at this time both in normal and tumor-bearing mice. The analysis of the radioactivity distribution among macromolecules (DNA, RNA, protein) and lipids indicated the highest label in lipids of all organs.", "PMID": 433203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1478", "title": "[Cytomorphological diagnosis of endometrioid neoplasms of the ovary].", "content": "The study was based on examination of cytographs of the Douglas space needle biopsy specimens and histological preparations of the operative material of 150 patients, 19 of them showing ovarian endometriosis. The results of correlating histological and cytological assays for endometrioid ovarian neoplasms are reported, as well as the differential diagnostic signs of these processes.", "contents": "[Cytomorphological diagnosis of endometrioid neoplasms of the ovary]. The study was based on examination of cytographs of the Douglas space needle biopsy specimens and histological preparations of the operative material of 150 patients, 19 of them showing ovarian endometriosis. The results of correlating histological and cytological assays for endometrioid ovarian neoplasms are reported, as well as the differential diagnostic signs of these processes.", "PMID": 433204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1479", "title": "[Moving irradiation in the combined radiation treatment of cervical cancer].", "content": "Application of moving telegamma therapy as an adjunct to the associated radiation treatment in 399 patients allowed an increase of the dosage up to 6500 rad in the parametrium area. A 5-year survival in stage I was 91.6 +/- 10.5%, in stage II--63.3 +/- 4.7% and in stage III--48 +/- 5.6%. Late postirradiation rectitis was noted in 24 patients, cystitis--in 8 and rectal fistula--in 7.", "contents": "[Moving irradiation in the combined radiation treatment of cervical cancer]. Application of moving telegamma therapy as an adjunct to the associated radiation treatment in 399 patients allowed an increase of the dosage up to 6500 rad in the parametrium area. A 5-year survival in stage I was 91.6 +/- 10.5%, in stage II--63.3 +/- 4.7% and in stage III--48 +/- 5.6%. Late postirradiation rectitis was noted in 24 patients, cystitis--in 8 and rectal fistula--in 7.", "PMID": 433205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1480", "title": "[Local connective tissue reaction in cervical cancer].", "content": "On the material of 100 intraoperative preparations of the uterus with its adnexa the authors have shown dynamically some changes in the cellular and noncellular components of local connective tissue stroma of the uterine neck in dysplasia, intraepithelial cancer, microcarcinoma and developed invasive cancer of the uterine cervix. An attempt is made to more precisely estimate the role of round-cell infiltration and stroma-formation processes for establishing the prognosis of the disease.", "contents": "[Local connective tissue reaction in cervical cancer]. On the material of 100 intraoperative preparations of the uterus with its adnexa the authors have shown dynamically some changes in the cellular and noncellular components of local connective tissue stroma of the uterine neck in dysplasia, intraepithelial cancer, microcarcinoma and developed invasive cancer of the uterine cervix. An attempt is made to more precisely estimate the role of round-cell infiltration and stroma-formation processes for establishing the prognosis of the disease.", "PMID": 433210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1481", "title": "[Results of the radiation therapy of cancer of the true vocal cords].", "content": "A comparative estimation is given of the results of radiotherapy in 85 patients with cancer of the true vocal cords in stage T1--2N0M0 depending on focal dosage in rad and ret units. There was noted a distinct correlation between the results of the treatment and the dosage applied. The immediate clinical cure was gained in 88.2% of cases. In this group of patients an average focal dosage corresponded to 6448 +/- 72.8 rad and 1793 +/- 22.7 ret, whereas in unsuccessful radiotherapy these were 5963 +/- 158 rad and 1675 +/- 28.3 ret. A five-year cure was noted with an average dosage of 6525 +/- 87.0 rad and 1830 +/- 52.1 ret. In a group of patients with recurrences these doses were 6390 +/- 183.4 rad and 1720 +/- 34.4 ret accordingly.", "contents": "[Results of the radiation therapy of cancer of the true vocal cords]. A comparative estimation is given of the results of radiotherapy in 85 patients with cancer of the true vocal cords in stage T1--2N0M0 depending on focal dosage in rad and ret units. There was noted a distinct correlation between the results of the treatment and the dosage applied. The immediate clinical cure was gained in 88.2% of cases. In this group of patients an average focal dosage corresponded to 6448 +/- 72.8 rad and 1793 +/- 22.7 ret, whereas in unsuccessful radiotherapy these were 5963 +/- 158 rad and 1675 +/- 28.3 ret. A five-year cure was noted with an average dosage of 6525 +/- 87.0 rad and 1830 +/- 52.1 ret. In a group of patients with recurrences these doses were 6390 +/- 183.4 rad and 1720 +/- 34.4 ret accordingly.", "PMID": 433211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1482", "title": "[Oxygen effect in the therapy of lung cancer].", "content": "Nine lung cancer patients were subjected preoperatively to radiotherapy under hypoxia with inhaling of GHM-10 (gas hypoxic mixture). The patients were followed up during 7--12 months. The results obtained evidence the rationality of further studies in this direction, that is of special importance due to introducing of reconstructive--plastic operations on the trachea and bronchi into oncological practice. Thus, there will be a possibility to preserve, in some cases, a porton of the lung. Since the functional status of the lung after surgical and radiation treatment is of primary importance for the duration of patients' survival, the lung tissue protection from side-effects of radiation in irradiating lung tumors may offer good perspectives.", "contents": "[Oxygen effect in the therapy of lung cancer]. Nine lung cancer patients were subjected preoperatively to radiotherapy under hypoxia with inhaling of GHM-10 (gas hypoxic mixture). The patients were followed up during 7--12 months. The results obtained evidence the rationality of further studies in this direction, that is of special importance due to introducing of reconstructive--plastic operations on the trachea and bronchi into oncological practice. Thus, there will be a possibility to preserve, in some cases, a porton of the lung. Since the functional status of the lung after surgical and radiation treatment is of primary importance for the duration of patients' survival, the lung tissue protection from side-effects of radiation in irradiating lung tumors may offer good perspectives.", "PMID": 433212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1483", "title": "[Hemostasis system in lung cancer, benign tumors and chronic nonspecific pneumonias].", "content": "A comparative study, condicted on the coagulation status, indicated that tumor and chronic inflammatory processes in the lung as associated with high blood content of fibrinogen and fibrinogen B, the increased plasma tolerance to heparin and degree of thrombotest with a compensatory increase of the heparin content and antithrombin activity. Lung tumor patients contrary to patients with pneumonias showed a high thromboplastin activity and reduced fibrinolysis indices. The activation of euglobulin fibrinolysis is characteristic of the hemostasis system in patients with chronic pneumonias. The revealed alterations may be used both for timely prophylaxis of coagulopathy and as an adjuvant method in the differential diagnosis.", "contents": "[Hemostasis system in lung cancer, benign tumors and chronic nonspecific pneumonias]. A comparative study, condicted on the coagulation status, indicated that tumor and chronic inflammatory processes in the lung as associated with high blood content of fibrinogen and fibrinogen B, the increased plasma tolerance to heparin and degree of thrombotest with a compensatory increase of the heparin content and antithrombin activity. Lung tumor patients contrary to patients with pneumonias showed a high thromboplastin activity and reduced fibrinolysis indices. The activation of euglobulin fibrinolysis is characteristic of the hemostasis system in patients with chronic pneumonias. The revealed alterations may be used both for timely prophylaxis of coagulopathy and as an adjuvant method in the differential diagnosis.", "PMID": 433213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1484", "title": "[Skin reactions of delayed hypersensitivity in melanoblastoma].", "content": "Cell factors of nonspecific immunity were estimated in 99 patients with different stages of melanoblastoma by delayed hypersensitivity skin test to tuberculin and DNCB (2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene). The skin test to DNCB is found to correlate with the clinical manifestations of the disease, while the skin test to tuberculin is not related with the degree of tumor spread. It is considered not rational to use the test concerned to define one of the immune cell factors in patients with melanoblastoma during the tumor progression.", "contents": "[Skin reactions of delayed hypersensitivity in melanoblastoma]. Cell factors of nonspecific immunity were estimated in 99 patients with different stages of melanoblastoma by delayed hypersensitivity skin test to tuberculin and DNCB (2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene). The skin test to DNCB is found to correlate with the clinical manifestations of the disease, while the skin test to tuberculin is not related with the degree of tumor spread. It is considered not rational to use the test concerned to define one of the immune cell factors in patients with melanoblastoma during the tumor progression.", "PMID": 433214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1485", "title": "[Blastomogenic action of combined total external and local internal (131I) irradiation on adult rats].", "content": "In the combined irradiation (the total dose of the thyroid uptake--15000 rad) the total incidence of tumors was close to that in isolated X-irradiation, but their multiplicity was much higher. The incidence of thyroid tumors (16.6%) was close to that in iodine-131 administration (17.7%, the absorbed dose--11000 rad) and x-irradiation (17.5%).", "contents": "[Blastomogenic action of combined total external and local internal (131I) irradiation on adult rats]. In the combined irradiation (the total dose of the thyroid uptake--15000 rad) the total incidence of tumors was close to that in isolated X-irradiation, but their multiplicity was much higher. The incidence of thyroid tumors (16.6%) was close to that in iodine-131 administration (17.7%, the absorbed dose--11000 rad) and x-irradiation (17.5%).", "PMID": 433215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1486", "title": "[Breast cancer in combination with other malignant tumors].", "content": "Since 1950 to 1968 in the Nikolaevsk Province Oncological dispensary 1006 breast cancer patients were radically operated upon. 943 patients were followed up, primary multiple tumors being observed in 52 of them (5.5%). Primary multiple tumors in stage I were noted in 2.3% of cases, in stage II--in 7.7%, in stage III--in 4.2%. A second tumor appeared in different terms following the cure of mammary gland cancer: in the other gland--in 28 cases, in the uterus--in 7, in the stomach--in 4, in ovaries--in 1, 7 patients developed skin cancer, 1--cancer of the lower lip and 2--lymphogranulomatosis.", "contents": "[Breast cancer in combination with other malignant tumors]. Since 1950 to 1968 in the Nikolaevsk Province Oncological dispensary 1006 breast cancer patients were radically operated upon. 943 patients were followed up, primary multiple tumors being observed in 52 of them (5.5%). Primary multiple tumors in stage I were noted in 2.3% of cases, in stage II--in 7.7%, in stage III--in 4.2%. A second tumor appeared in different terms following the cure of mammary gland cancer: in the other gland--in 28 cases, in the uterus--in 7, in the stomach--in 4, in ovaries--in 1, 7 patients developed skin cancer, 1--cancer of the lower lip and 2--lymphogranulomatosis.", "PMID": 433218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1487", "title": "[Complications and lethality after radical operations for cancer of the cardial portion of the stomach].", "content": "The author presents an analysis of the data on 94 patients with cancer of the gastric cardiac portion with and without the involvement of the esophagus, in whom radical operations (proximal gastric resection and gastrectomy) were followed by various complications. The main complications and causes of patients' death were pleuropulmonary complications and peritonitis. Peritonitis was more frequently due to the anastomosis suture incompetency. Peritonitis resulted in the postoperative mortality totally in 50% of patients. Suture incompetency of entero-esophageal anastomoses was as frequent as that of gastro-esophageal ones.", "contents": "[Complications and lethality after radical operations for cancer of the cardial portion of the stomach]. The author presents an analysis of the data on 94 patients with cancer of the gastric cardiac portion with and without the involvement of the esophagus, in whom radical operations (proximal gastric resection and gastrectomy) were followed by various complications. The main complications and causes of patients' death were pleuropulmonary complications and peritonitis. Peritonitis was more frequently due to the anastomosis suture incompetency. Peritonitis resulted in the postoperative mortality totally in 50% of patients. Suture incompetency of entero-esophageal anastomoses was as frequent as that of gastro-esophageal ones.", "PMID": 433220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1488", "title": "[Repeated operations in pancreatic cancer].", "content": "Twenty four reoperations were performed for cancer of the pancreas. The indications were as follows: gastroduodenal obstruction, recurrent jaundice, external biliary fistulas and uneffective primary operations. In 20 patients palliative measures were performed, which improved considerably the patents' state. Reoperations for pancreatic cancer seem to be rational only in the presence of the proper indications; however an adequate primary operation in some cases may render unnecessary such relaparotomies.", "contents": "[Repeated operations in pancreatic cancer]. Twenty four reoperations were performed for cancer of the pancreas. The indications were as follows: gastroduodenal obstruction, recurrent jaundice, external biliary fistulas and uneffective primary operations. In 20 patients palliative measures were performed, which improved considerably the patents' state. Reoperations for pancreatic cancer seem to be rational only in the presence of the proper indications; however an adequate primary operation in some cases may render unnecessary such relaparotomies.", "PMID": 433221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1489", "title": "[B group and ascorbic acid vitamin allowance of the therapeutic rations of phenylketonuria patients].", "content": "The allowance of the vitamin group B and ascorbic acid in specialized rations for children suffering from phenylketonuria was studied. A significant deficiency in a number of the study vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, ascorbic acid) was detected, this being confirmed by the excretary findings. Inclusion of protein-free and of products enriched with vitamins in the ration could not fully correct the diet as concerns the study vitamins. An additional administration of vitamins in the form of preparations led to their passage with the urine reaching normal or higher levels.", "contents": "[B group and ascorbic acid vitamin allowance of the therapeutic rations of phenylketonuria patients]. The allowance of the vitamin group B and ascorbic acid in specialized rations for children suffering from phenylketonuria was studied. A significant deficiency in a number of the study vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, ascorbic acid) was detected, this being confirmed by the excretary findings. Inclusion of protein-free and of products enriched with vitamins in the ration could not fully correct the diet as concerns the study vitamins. An additional administration of vitamins in the form of preparations led to their passage with the urine reaching normal or higher levels.", "PMID": 433228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1490", "title": "[Energy expenditures, nutritional regimen and the individual indices of the metabolic status of the students at physical education institutes].", "content": "Data of a study on the factual nutrition, energy expenditures and individual indices of the nitrogen and lipids metabolism rates in students of a Physical Culture Institute of different sport specialties (heavy athletics, light athletics, wrestling, skying, cycling and rowing) are presented. Shortcomings and organization of the students' nutrition are considered and suggestions for its improvement are given.", "contents": "[Energy expenditures, nutritional regimen and the individual indices of the metabolic status of the students at physical education institutes]. Data of a study on the factual nutrition, energy expenditures and individual indices of the nitrogen and lipids metabolism rates in students of a Physical Culture Institute of different sport specialties (heavy athletics, light athletics, wrestling, skying, cycling and rowing) are presented. Shortcomings and organization of the students' nutrition are considered and suggestions for its improvement are given.", "PMID": 433229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1491", "title": "[Effect of qualitatively varied nutrition on the lipoprotein lipase activity in rat tissues].", "content": "Isocaloric food rations with a steady protein level, but differing proportions and quality of carbohydrates and fat produce a marked effect on the activity of the lipoprotein lipase in the fat tissue and liver of rats, affecting the blood insulin level to a lesser degree. In investigated tissues a reduced activity of the enzyme was noted to occur by using a ration carrying an excess amount of animal fat and of a diet with saccharose balanced in proportions of carbohydrates and fat. A fat-rich ration with a vegetable oil and a carbohydrate-rich ration with saccharose heighten the activity of the lipoprotein lipase both in the fat tissue and in the liver, but produce an opposite action on the blood insulin concentration. The absence of direct relation between the activity of the enzyme and the blood insulin level indicates that under the effect of food differed by its chemical composition the blood insulin concentration is not a decisive factor in regulating the activity of the lipoprotein lipase in tissues.", "contents": "[Effect of qualitatively varied nutrition on the lipoprotein lipase activity in rat tissues]. Isocaloric food rations with a steady protein level, but differing proportions and quality of carbohydrates and fat produce a marked effect on the activity of the lipoprotein lipase in the fat tissue and liver of rats, affecting the blood insulin level to a lesser degree. In investigated tissues a reduced activity of the enzyme was noted to occur by using a ration carrying an excess amount of animal fat and of a diet with saccharose balanced in proportions of carbohydrates and fat. A fat-rich ration with a vegetable oil and a carbohydrate-rich ration with saccharose heighten the activity of the lipoprotein lipase both in the fat tissue and in the liver, but produce an opposite action on the blood insulin concentration. The absence of direct relation between the activity of the enzyme and the blood insulin level indicates that under the effect of food differed by its chemical composition the blood insulin concentration is not a decisive factor in regulating the activity of the lipoprotein lipase in tissues.", "PMID": 433230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1492", "title": "[Action of qualitatively varied proteins in the ration on aspects of the immunobiological reactivity of the body of white rats].", "content": "For 37--48 days the action of qualitatively different proteins (caseine jellatine) on some factors of the immunobiological reactivity of growing albino rats of the Wistar lineage was studied. A decline of the body mass and hypoproteinemia maintained on a diet with jellatine by comparison with animals with corresponding factors receiving caseine was revealed. In the spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and in the small intestine layer proper in rats given a diet with jellatine a reduced number of plasmatic cells and also of the lymphoid series in the epithelial layer of the small intestine villi was disclosed. These animals failed to demonstrate the presence of specific antibodies 3 weeks after immunization with diphtherial anatoxin, whereas the heterohemagglutinines titre was rising. In animals kept on a diet with caseine the proportion of the heterohemagglutinines production and of specific antibodies had a reciprocal character, which manifested itself in a hefty depression of the agglutinines biosynthesis to sheep erythrocytes with an accruing titres of antidiphtherial antibodies.", "contents": "[Action of qualitatively varied proteins in the ration on aspects of the immunobiological reactivity of the body of white rats]. For 37--48 days the action of qualitatively different proteins (caseine jellatine) on some factors of the immunobiological reactivity of growing albino rats of the Wistar lineage was studied. A decline of the body mass and hypoproteinemia maintained on a diet with jellatine by comparison with animals with corresponding factors receiving caseine was revealed. In the spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and in the small intestine layer proper in rats given a diet with jellatine a reduced number of plasmatic cells and also of the lymphoid series in the epithelial layer of the small intestine villi was disclosed. These animals failed to demonstrate the presence of specific antibodies 3 weeks after immunization with diphtherial anatoxin, whereas the heterohemagglutinines titre was rising. In animals kept on a diet with caseine the proportion of the heterohemagglutinines production and of specific antibodies had a reciprocal character, which manifested itself in a hefty depression of the agglutinines biosynthesis to sheep erythrocytes with an accruing titres of antidiphtherial antibodies.", "PMID": 433231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1493", "title": "[Effect of a saccharose diet on the enzymatic activity and the metabolite content from carbohydrate metabolism in the saliva of rats of varying age].", "content": "In rats, starting from a month or three-months age, stayed for 2 months on a diet with 54 per cent of saccharose in the saliva the activity of hexokinase, aldolase, malate-dehydrogenase, sorbitol-dehydrogenase, glutamate-dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase and the content of lactate, pyruvate and glucose were determined. In the activity of significant differences of enzymes and carbohydrate metabolites in the saliva of three- and five-months old rats were not disclosed. Keeping of the one-month rats for 2 months on the saccharose diet increased the activity of enzymes (except for malate-dehydrogenase) and raised the amount of lactate and pyruvate. In five-month rats receiving the saccharose ration starting from three-month age a tendency towars a rising activity of hexoninase and to a falling malate-dehidrogenase activity were noted. The activity of other enzymes and the lactate level remained unchageed. In young rats given a saccharose diet the presence of an enzymatic shift toward intensification of the anaerobic glycolysis was confirmed by change in the isofermentative spectrum of the lactate-dehydrogenase accompanied by a drop of the total amount of aerobic isoenzymes LDG1, LDG2 and also by an excess accumulation of pyruvate and lactate.", "contents": "[Effect of a saccharose diet on the enzymatic activity and the metabolite content from carbohydrate metabolism in the saliva of rats of varying age]. In rats, starting from a month or three-months age, stayed for 2 months on a diet with 54 per cent of saccharose in the saliva the activity of hexokinase, aldolase, malate-dehydrogenase, sorbitol-dehydrogenase, glutamate-dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase and the content of lactate, pyruvate and glucose were determined. In the activity of significant differences of enzymes and carbohydrate metabolites in the saliva of three- and five-months old rats were not disclosed. Keeping of the one-month rats for 2 months on the saccharose diet increased the activity of enzymes (except for malate-dehydrogenase) and raised the amount of lactate and pyruvate. In five-month rats receiving the saccharose ration starting from three-month age a tendency towars a rising activity of hexoninase and to a falling malate-dehidrogenase activity were noted. The activity of other enzymes and the lactate level remained unchageed. In young rats given a saccharose diet the presence of an enzymatic shift toward intensification of the anaerobic glycolysis was confirmed by change in the isofermentative spectrum of the lactate-dehydrogenase accompanied by a drop of the total amount of aerobic isoenzymes LDG1, LDG2 and also by an excess accumulation of pyruvate and lactate.", "PMID": 433232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1494", "title": "[Xanthurenuria at different stages of liver lesion induced by protein and choline deficiency].", "content": "The parallelism between xanthurenuria and liver affections caused by protein and choline deficiency was studied. At the stages marking the development of lipohepatosis and fibrosis there occurred an intensive passage of xanthurenic acid. The intensity of xanthurenuria at the stage marking the appearance of hyperplastic nodes continued to gain strength. With progressive advance of pathological changes, which by the 9--12th months of the experiment reached the stage of a fully developed nodular cirrhosis xanthurenuria gradually stopped.", "contents": "[Xanthurenuria at different stages of liver lesion induced by protein and choline deficiency]. The parallelism between xanthurenuria and liver affections caused by protein and choline deficiency was studied. At the stages marking the development of lipohepatosis and fibrosis there occurred an intensive passage of xanthurenic acid. The intensity of xanthurenuria at the stage marking the appearance of hyperplastic nodes continued to gain strength. With progressive advance of pathological changes, which by the 9--12th months of the experiment reached the stage of a fully developed nodular cirrhosis xanthurenuria gradually stopped.", "PMID": 433233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1495", "title": "[Effect of tocopherol and protein deficiency on the activity of enzymes and their isoenzymatic spectra in rat testes].", "content": "The symptoms of E-avitaminosis against protein deficiency in the ration become manifest much earlier, i. e. in 12--16 weeks of the experiment instead of 24--36 weeks with the primary-deficient ration. This was marked by the development of the creatinuria, the falling blood serum and testes tissue tocopherol, a higher peroxidized erythrocytes hemolysis, the animals demonstrating a disturbed generative function. In the testes of the E-avitaminotic rats an appreaciably increased total activity of glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G-6-PDG) and of the acid phosphatase (AP) was demonstrated, whereas the LDG remained essentially unchanged. An investigation of their isoenzymatic spectra revealed a considerable activity of the basic 5 G-6-PDG fractions with the appearance of additional ones, along with the disappearance of the specific LDG fraction--X-2 and a drastic fall in the activity of the specific fraction for the testes--LDG-X-1, with concurrent rise in the activity of the 5 basic fractions. In the isoenzymatic AP spectrum disappeared the AP-3 fraction of the degenerating testes tissues and a redistribution of the activity between the fractions took place.", "contents": "[Effect of tocopherol and protein deficiency on the activity of enzymes and their isoenzymatic spectra in rat testes]. The symptoms of E-avitaminosis against protein deficiency in the ration become manifest much earlier, i. e. in 12--16 weeks of the experiment instead of 24--36 weeks with the primary-deficient ration. This was marked by the development of the creatinuria, the falling blood serum and testes tissue tocopherol, a higher peroxidized erythrocytes hemolysis, the animals demonstrating a disturbed generative function. In the testes of the E-avitaminotic rats an appreaciably increased total activity of glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G-6-PDG) and of the acid phosphatase (AP) was demonstrated, whereas the LDG remained essentially unchanged. An investigation of their isoenzymatic spectra revealed a considerable activity of the basic 5 G-6-PDG fractions with the appearance of additional ones, along with the disappearance of the specific LDG fraction--X-2 and a drastic fall in the activity of the specific fraction for the testes--LDG-X-1, with concurrent rise in the activity of the 5 basic fractions. In the isoenzymatic AP spectrum disappeared the AP-3 fraction of the degenerating testes tissues and a redistribution of the activity between the fractions took place.", "PMID": 433234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1496", "title": "[Evaluation of a pectin with a low degree of esterification as a prophylactic agent in lead poisoning].", "content": "In experiments with rats, which were undergoing priming by mouth with an acetic lead solution at the rate of 6 mg/day for 1 1/2 month, the prophylactic effect of apple pectin esterified to the degree of 26 per cent (doses 36 and 72 mg) and of 32 per cent (doses of 216 and 432 mg) was evaluated. The best prophylactic effect was found to produce pectin with a 32 per cent esterification degree, but in some of rats dysfunction of the gastro-intestinal tract was noted.", "contents": "[Evaluation of a pectin with a low degree of esterification as a prophylactic agent in lead poisoning]. In experiments with rats, which were undergoing priming by mouth with an acetic lead solution at the rate of 6 mg/day for 1 1/2 month, the prophylactic effect of apple pectin esterified to the degree of 26 per cent (doses 36 and 72 mg) and of 32 per cent (doses of 216 and 432 mg) was evaluated. The best prophylactic effect was found to produce pectin with a 32 per cent esterification degree, but in some of rats dysfunction of the gastro-intestinal tract was noted.", "PMID": 433235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1497", "title": "[Comparative characteristics of the peptide maps of the major proteins of influenza viruses type A].", "content": "A comparative study of peptide maps of major proteins of hemagglutinin, nucleoprotein, membrane of influenza A virus strains A/WS/33, A/FM/1/47, A/Singapore/1/57, A/USSR/090/77, A/Port Chalmers/1/73 (MRC-11), was carried out. The greatest differences were observed in the peptide maps of heavy and light chains of hemagglutinin of different serotypes. The peptide maps of nucleoprotein and membrane were more similar. The A/USSR/090/77 strain by peptide maps was close to but not identical with the A/FM/1/47 strain. Structural polypeptides of the virion separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis may be used satisfactorily for comparative studies of influenza virus peptide maps.", "contents": "[Comparative characteristics of the peptide maps of the major proteins of influenza viruses type A]. A comparative study of peptide maps of major proteins of hemagglutinin, nucleoprotein, membrane of influenza A virus strains A/WS/33, A/FM/1/47, A/Singapore/1/57, A/USSR/090/77, A/Port Chalmers/1/73 (MRC-11), was carried out. The greatest differences were observed in the peptide maps of heavy and light chains of hemagglutinin of different serotypes. The peptide maps of nucleoprotein and membrane were more similar. The A/USSR/090/77 strain by peptide maps was close to but not identical with the A/FM/1/47 strain. Structural polypeptides of the virion separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis may be used satisfactorily for comparative studies of influenza virus peptide maps.", "PMID": 433239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1498", "title": "[Study of hepatitis type B during hemodialysis].", "content": "Blood sera of 29 patients of the hemodialysis ward were regularly examined 6 months and later after hospitalization for the presence of HBsAg and anti-HBs (anti-HBs were found in 4 patients, HBsAg in one). The results of the study in one patient who developed hepatitis B infection of the dynamics of changes in specific and nonspecific values in the incubation period and in the period of manifest clinical signs of the disease are presented.", "contents": "[Study of hepatitis type B during hemodialysis]. Blood sera of 29 patients of the hemodialysis ward were regularly examined 6 months and later after hospitalization for the presence of HBsAg and anti-HBs (anti-HBs were found in 4 patients, HBsAg in one). The results of the study in one patient who developed hepatitis B infection of the dynamics of changes in specific and nonspecific values in the incubation period and in the period of manifest clinical signs of the disease are presented.", "PMID": 433241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1499", "title": "[Morphological makeup of the structures containing HBsAg in the blood of acute and chronic serum hepatitis patients].", "content": "Immune electron microscopy was used to examine the morphological composition of HBsAg-containing structures in 20 patients with acute serum hepatitis (ASH) and severe accompanying disease in whom HBsAg had been detected by the gel precipitation test for a long time, and in 7 patients with HBsAg-positive chronic active hepatitis (CAH) developing after ASH. Small spherical particles were the predominant form of HBsAg-containing structures in all the sera. Among ASH patients, a significant number of tubular forms and Dane particles were detected mainly in patients with severe accompanying diseases. No correlation between the appearance of a large number of Dane particles and tubural forms and the severity of the disease in ASH was established. In CAH, tubular forms and Dane particles in large numbers were found only in patients with long periods after ASH. Large numbers of Dane particles in all the examined patients were combined with a large number of tubular forms.", "contents": "[Morphological makeup of the structures containing HBsAg in the blood of acute and chronic serum hepatitis patients]. Immune electron microscopy was used to examine the morphological composition of HBsAg-containing structures in 20 patients with acute serum hepatitis (ASH) and severe accompanying disease in whom HBsAg had been detected by the gel precipitation test for a long time, and in 7 patients with HBsAg-positive chronic active hepatitis (CAH) developing after ASH. Small spherical particles were the predominant form of HBsAg-containing structures in all the sera. Among ASH patients, a significant number of tubular forms and Dane particles were detected mainly in patients with severe accompanying diseases. No correlation between the appearance of a large number of Dane particles and tubural forms and the severity of the disease in ASH was established. In CAH, tubular forms and Dane particles in large numbers were found only in patients with long periods after ASH. Large numbers of Dane particles in all the examined patients were combined with a large number of tubular forms.", "PMID": 433242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1500", "title": "[Mechanism of the mutagenic action of the tick-borne encephalitis virus].", "content": "The results of cytogenetic analysis of pig embryo kidney cells infected at a high multiplicity (5-10 PFU/cell) with tick-borne encephalitis virus. The dynamics of formations of virus-induced chromosome aberrations differed markedly from that observed at lower multiplicities of infection. No increase of the mutagenic effect with increasing infective dose of the virus was found, however. The assumption that TBE virus mutagenic properties are associated with structural virus proteins is discussed. Attenuated variants of TBE virus were shown to have no mutagenic properties.", "contents": "[Mechanism of the mutagenic action of the tick-borne encephalitis virus]. The results of cytogenetic analysis of pig embryo kidney cells infected at a high multiplicity (5-10 PFU/cell) with tick-borne encephalitis virus. The dynamics of formations of virus-induced chromosome aberrations differed markedly from that observed at lower multiplicities of infection. No increase of the mutagenic effect with increasing infective dose of the virus was found, however. The assumption that TBE virus mutagenic properties are associated with structural virus proteins is discussed. Attenuated variants of TBE virus were shown to have no mutagenic properties.", "PMID": 433243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1501", "title": "[Dispensary observation and treatment of stomach ulcer patients].", "content": "The results from the dispensary follow-up and prophylactic treatment of 175 patients with gastric ulcer in the course of 3 to 7 years (62% of the patients 5 from to 7 years) are reported. Two thirds of the patients are enlisted in the dispensary system during the first year after the disease onset. The ulcer disappears in 53.57 per cent by the end of the third month from the beginning of the treatment and in 81.43 per cent during the first 6 months. By the end of the first year, the ulcer was not closed in 8.57 per cent of the patients, hence 14.85 per cent of them underwent an operation. Control examinations and prophylactic treatment were conducted at least twice a year (in spring and autumn) in the course of three months. Recidivations occur rarely in the systematically treated patients, as well as hemorrhage and perforation of the ulcer as compared with the control group without a systematic prophylactic treatment. During the follow up, malignant degeneration of the ulcer was found in 9 patients (5.14%), 7 out of them were operated (5 at a relatively early period with a survival of 5 years in 60%). In more than the half of the patients with malignant degeneration, the duration of the gastric ulcer was over 6 years. Both the gigantic and the ulcers with small dimensions could have a malignant degeneration. Cancer degenerated ulcer are more frequently localized in the horizontal part of the lesser and greater stomach curvatures and subcardially. With a view to the timely diagnosis of cancer degeneration of the ulcer, the patients are advised to keep the control examinations under dispensary conditions--clinically, at the laboratory and endoscopically-biopsy at least two times a year.", "contents": "[Dispensary observation and treatment of stomach ulcer patients]. The results from the dispensary follow-up and prophylactic treatment of 175 patients with gastric ulcer in the course of 3 to 7 years (62% of the patients 5 from to 7 years) are reported. Two thirds of the patients are enlisted in the dispensary system during the first year after the disease onset. The ulcer disappears in 53.57 per cent by the end of the third month from the beginning of the treatment and in 81.43 per cent during the first 6 months. By the end of the first year, the ulcer was not closed in 8.57 per cent of the patients, hence 14.85 per cent of them underwent an operation. Control examinations and prophylactic treatment were conducted at least twice a year (in spring and autumn) in the course of three months. Recidivations occur rarely in the systematically treated patients, as well as hemorrhage and perforation of the ulcer as compared with the control group without a systematic prophylactic treatment. During the follow up, malignant degeneration of the ulcer was found in 9 patients (5.14%), 7 out of them were operated (5 at a relatively early period with a survival of 5 years in 60%). In more than the half of the patients with malignant degeneration, the duration of the gastric ulcer was over 6 years. Both the gigantic and the ulcers with small dimensions could have a malignant degeneration. Cancer degenerated ulcer are more frequently localized in the horizontal part of the lesser and greater stomach curvatures and subcardially. With a view to the timely diagnosis of cancer degeneration of the ulcer, the patients are advised to keep the control examinations under dispensary conditions--clinically, at the laboratory and endoscopically-biopsy at least two times a year.", "PMID": 433248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1502", "title": "[Occurrence of cancer in the gastric stump after stomach resection].", "content": "The investigation of 654 patients with gastric resection on the occasion of benign gastric diseases (17 with duodenal and 6 with gastric ulcers and 2 with polyps of the stomach) revealed cancer origination in the remaining part of the stomach in 25 patients (3.82%). The average of the patients at resection was 41 and the cancer confirmation in the stomach remaining part--63 (cancer process develops after about an average of 22 years--from 8 to 38 years after the resection)--in 16 of the patients in the region of the anastomosis and in the rest--at a distance from it. Cancer in the stomach remaining part was admitted in 28 per cent on the base of clinical-laboratory data, roentgenologically was diagnosed and admitted in 64 per cent and fibrogastroscopically in 52 per cent. In 80 per cent of the patients positive cancer results were obtained by purposeful gastrobiopsy. Severe atrophic gastritis in the adjoining mucosa was found in 88 per cent of the examined. Radical operation treatment (total and subtotal gastric resection) was performed to 44 per cent of the patients, the rest were inoperable. The resected stomach is a precancerosis dur to which the patients should be enlisted in the dispensary system (particularly after the 10th year after the resection) and every year to be clinically, laboratory and endoscopically-biopsy controlled with a view to the timely diagnosis of the cancer of the stomach remaining part.", "contents": "[Occurrence of cancer in the gastric stump after stomach resection]. The investigation of 654 patients with gastric resection on the occasion of benign gastric diseases (17 with duodenal and 6 with gastric ulcers and 2 with polyps of the stomach) revealed cancer origination in the remaining part of the stomach in 25 patients (3.82%). The average of the patients at resection was 41 and the cancer confirmation in the stomach remaining part--63 (cancer process develops after about an average of 22 years--from 8 to 38 years after the resection)--in 16 of the patients in the region of the anastomosis and in the rest--at a distance from it. Cancer in the stomach remaining part was admitted in 28 per cent on the base of clinical-laboratory data, roentgenologically was diagnosed and admitted in 64 per cent and fibrogastroscopically in 52 per cent. In 80 per cent of the patients positive cancer results were obtained by purposeful gastrobiopsy. Severe atrophic gastritis in the adjoining mucosa was found in 88 per cent of the examined. Radical operation treatment (total and subtotal gastric resection) was performed to 44 per cent of the patients, the rest were inoperable. The resected stomach is a precancerosis dur to which the patients should be enlisted in the dispensary system (particularly after the 10th year after the resection) and every year to be clinically, laboratory and endoscopically-biopsy controlled with a view to the timely diagnosis of the cancer of the stomach remaining part.", "PMID": 433249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1503", "title": "[Preparation and characteristics of temperature-sensitive mutants of the Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus].", "content": "Fifteen ts mutants of Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis (VEE) virus have been produced and studied. Two of them were isolated from a virus population grown in the presence of 5-fluorouracyl and 13 from a virus suspension treated with nitrous acid. The efficiency of plating 40 degrees/35 degrees of various mutants varied from 2 X 10(-2) to 6 X 10(-6). Three ts mutants had RNA- phenotype (RNA synthesis at a nonpermissive temperature was 1.5-3.3% of that of the wild type), 11 ts mutants had RNA+ phenotype (RNA synthesis decreased insignificantly, 32-75%), and one ts mutant was intermediate (18%).", "contents": "[Preparation and characteristics of temperature-sensitive mutants of the Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus]. Fifteen ts mutants of Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis (VEE) virus have been produced and studied. Two of them were isolated from a virus population grown in the presence of 5-fluorouracyl and 13 from a virus suspension treated with nitrous acid. The efficiency of plating 40 degrees/35 degrees of various mutants varied from 2 X 10(-2) to 6 X 10(-6). Three ts mutants had RNA- phenotype (RNA synthesis at a nonpermissive temperature was 1.5-3.3% of that of the wild type), 11 ts mutants had RNA+ phenotype (RNA synthesis decreased insignificantly, 32-75%), and one ts mutant was intermediate (18%).", "PMID": 433244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1504", "title": "[Echocardiographic changes in tricuspid insufficiency].", "content": "The following echocardiographic changes were found in 42 patients with catheterization data for tricuspid insufficiency: all echocardiographic dimensions of the right ventricle and right auricle are considerably increased; the interventricular septum reveals paradoxical movements in 38 per cent of the cases; the tricuspid echogram shows unspecific changes in the speed and amplitude parameters of the anterior tricuspid cusp--increased speed (D--E) and amplitude (C--E) of opening, increased speed of backward movement in an early diastole (E-F), increased speed of closing (A--C),increased duration of the final diastolic intervals A--C and Q--C, the difference between the Q--C interval duration of the tricuspidal valve and Q--C interval of the mitral echogram is pathologically increased, the ratio between the speed of E--F segment of the tricuspid valve and E--F segment of the mitral valve is also increased. The diagnostic sensitivity of those changes of the tricuspid echogram is about 75 per cent. EchoC-diagnosis of the tricuspid insufficiency is based on the combination of considerably increased EchoC-dimensions of the right ventricle and the right auricle, paradoxical movements of the interventricular septum and the changes of the speed and amplitude parameters of the tricuspid echogram.", "contents": "[Echocardiographic changes in tricuspid insufficiency]. The following echocardiographic changes were found in 42 patients with catheterization data for tricuspid insufficiency: all echocardiographic dimensions of the right ventricle and right auricle are considerably increased; the interventricular septum reveals paradoxical movements in 38 per cent of the cases; the tricuspid echogram shows unspecific changes in the speed and amplitude parameters of the anterior tricuspid cusp--increased speed (D--E) and amplitude (C--E) of opening, increased speed of backward movement in an early diastole (E-F), increased speed of closing (A--C),increased duration of the final diastolic intervals A--C and Q--C, the difference between the Q--C interval duration of the tricuspidal valve and Q--C interval of the mitral echogram is pathologically increased, the ratio between the speed of E--F segment of the tricuspid valve and E--F segment of the mitral valve is also increased. The diagnostic sensitivity of those changes of the tricuspid echogram is about 75 per cent. EchoC-diagnosis of the tricuspid insufficiency is based on the combination of considerably increased EchoC-dimensions of the right ventricle and the right auricle, paradoxical movements of the interventricular septum and the changes of the speed and amplitude parameters of the tricuspid echogram.", "PMID": 433250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1505", "title": "[Symptomatic arterial hypertension in lupus nephropathy].", "content": "Sixty six patients with lupus nephropathy with hypertonic syndrome are examined. In patients with latent (inactive) lupus glomerulonephritis hypertonic syndrome developed 3--8 months after the initiation of the corticosteroid treatment, advancing with fluctuations, in some of the patients the arterial pressure being normalized after the discontinuation of that treatment. In patients with chronic active lupus glomerulonephritis without nephrotic syndrome, the hypertension develops before the initiation of the corticosteroid treatment, fluctuating at the beginning, and gradually assumes a stable character 3--5 months after the beginning of such treatment, sometimes with a malignant course and rapid development of renal insufficiency. The hypertonic syndrome advances most severely and malignantly in chronic lupus glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome and is resistant to the active antihypertensive treatment. In 18, out of 25, such patients, the hypertonic syndrome is manifested in parallel with nephropathy before the inclusion of the cortocosteroid treatment. The grave and malignant course of the hypertonic syndrome is associated with the peculiarities of the clinical form and histomorphological type of that lupus nephropathy. In the patients with nephrosclerosis, the hypertonic syndrome is with a gradually progressing evolution, in parallel with the progress of the renal insufficiency.", "contents": "[Symptomatic arterial hypertension in lupus nephropathy]. Sixty six patients with lupus nephropathy with hypertonic syndrome are examined. In patients with latent (inactive) lupus glomerulonephritis hypertonic syndrome developed 3--8 months after the initiation of the corticosteroid treatment, advancing with fluctuations, in some of the patients the arterial pressure being normalized after the discontinuation of that treatment. In patients with chronic active lupus glomerulonephritis without nephrotic syndrome, the hypertension develops before the initiation of the corticosteroid treatment, fluctuating at the beginning, and gradually assumes a stable character 3--5 months after the beginning of such treatment, sometimes with a malignant course and rapid development of renal insufficiency. The hypertonic syndrome advances most severely and malignantly in chronic lupus glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome and is resistant to the active antihypertensive treatment. In 18, out of 25, such patients, the hypertonic syndrome is manifested in parallel with nephropathy before the inclusion of the cortocosteroid treatment. The grave and malignant course of the hypertonic syndrome is associated with the peculiarities of the clinical form and histomorphological type of that lupus nephropathy. In the patients with nephrosclerosis, the hypertonic syndrome is with a gradually progressing evolution, in parallel with the progress of the renal insufficiency.", "PMID": 433252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1506", "title": "[Pathogenetic and clinical significance of pentagastrin stimulation of gastric secretion in the active phase of peptic ulcer].", "content": "The gastric secretion with pentagastrin was studied in 214 subjects (130 with duodenal ulcer, 20 with double localization--in duodenum and stomach, 32 with gastric ulcer and 32--healthy). A different gastric secretory characteristic was found and the problem raised as regards the differentiated therapeutic and surgical approach in the separate tyoes of ulcer disease. The origination and clinical course of the duodenal ulcer and the ulcer with double localization are admitted to depend most likely and to a greater extent, on the gastric secretion rate. The duration of the active duodenal ulcer probably has no substantial effect on the enhanced secretory function of the stomach in the course of many years. The indices of secretion and acid elimination in single gastric ulcers are significantly diminished.", "contents": "[Pathogenetic and clinical significance of pentagastrin stimulation of gastric secretion in the active phase of peptic ulcer]. The gastric secretion with pentagastrin was studied in 214 subjects (130 with duodenal ulcer, 20 with double localization--in duodenum and stomach, 32 with gastric ulcer and 32--healthy). A different gastric secretory characteristic was found and the problem raised as regards the differentiated therapeutic and surgical approach in the separate tyoes of ulcer disease. The origination and clinical course of the duodenal ulcer and the ulcer with double localization are admitted to depend most likely and to a greater extent, on the gastric secretion rate. The duration of the active duodenal ulcer probably has no substantial effect on the enhanced secretory function of the stomach in the course of many years. The indices of secretion and acid elimination in single gastric ulcers are significantly diminished.", "PMID": 433255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1507", "title": "[Nephropathy in a patient with IgD-myeloma].", "content": "A myeloma nephropathy in the rarely found paraproteinemia, class IgD is described for the first time in our country, manifested clinically from the very onset of the disease and advancing with a series of peculiarities, causing differential-diagnostic difficulties. The cytostatic treatment applied was with a good effect.", "contents": "[Nephropathy in a patient with IgD-myeloma]. A myeloma nephropathy in the rarely found paraproteinemia, class IgD is described for the first time in our country, manifested clinically from the very onset of the disease and advancing with a series of peculiarities, causing differential-diagnostic difficulties. The cytostatic treatment applied was with a good effect.", "PMID": 433257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1508", "title": "[Haemoglobin AIc (HbAIc) and juvenile-onset diabetes].", "content": "HbAIc was determined in 20 children with juvenile-onset diabetes and in 15 healthy control children of a similar age group. HbAIc was 10.2 +/- 1.6% (mean +/- SD) of the total haemoglobin in the diabetic patients and 6.3 +/- 0.5% (mean +/- SD) in the controls. This difference was significant (P less than 0.001). A linear correlation was found between HbAIc and mean glucosuria over a 6-week period prior to HbAIc determination (p less than 0.01). It is concluded that HbAIc determination might be an important indicator of diabetic control and of the response to therapeutic measures since it represents an integrated gauge of blood glucose concentrations over several weeks.", "contents": "[Haemoglobin AIc (HbAIc) and juvenile-onset diabetes]. HbAIc was determined in 20 children with juvenile-onset diabetes and in 15 healthy control children of a similar age group. HbAIc was 10.2 +/- 1.6% (mean +/- SD) of the total haemoglobin in the diabetic patients and 6.3 +/- 0.5% (mean +/- SD) in the controls. This difference was significant (P less than 0.001). A linear correlation was found between HbAIc and mean glucosuria over a 6-week period prior to HbAIc determination (p less than 0.01). It is concluded that HbAIc determination might be an important indicator of diabetic control and of the response to therapeutic measures since it represents an integrated gauge of blood glucose concentrations over several weeks.", "PMID": 433278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1509", "title": "[Haemoglobin S/beta thalassaemia in a Greek family: a case study (author's transl)].", "content": "A case report is presented of the rare haemoglobinopathy HbS-thalassaemia, type betaS-betathal-O in a Greek family. The special diagnostic features are discussed, with particular reference to the differential diagnosis.", "contents": "[Haemoglobin S/beta thalassaemia in a Greek family: a case study (author's transl)]. A case report is presented of the rare haemoglobinopathy HbS-thalassaemia, type betaS-betathal-O in a Greek family. The special diagnostic features are discussed, with particular reference to the differential diagnosis.", "PMID": 433279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1510", "title": "[Haemodynamic effects of depot zinc protamine glucagon in heart failure (author's transl)].", "content": "In contrast to intravenously-administered crystallene glucagon, which acts for 20 minutes only, the depot form, zinc protamine glucagon, shows a prolonged haemodynamic action. Fourteen patients with pre-existing heart failure received a single dose of 20 mg Zn protamine glucagon intramuscularly. The stroke volume and cardiac output were increased, whereas the mean and end-diastolic pulmonary pressure were decreased, indicating a positive inotropic action of the administered drug. Heart rate and mean arterial pressure remained almost unchanged. The haemodynamic changes started 60 minutes after intramuscular administration of the drug, reached a maximum effect at 3 hours and started to decrease after the fourth hour. Zn protamine glucagon can, therefore, be considered a beneficial drug in the treatment of digitalis-resistant heart failure on the basis of its long duration of action and easy route of administration.", "contents": "[Haemodynamic effects of depot zinc protamine glucagon in heart failure (author's transl)]. In contrast to intravenously-administered crystallene glucagon, which acts for 20 minutes only, the depot form, zinc protamine glucagon, shows a prolonged haemodynamic action. Fourteen patients with pre-existing heart failure received a single dose of 20 mg Zn protamine glucagon intramuscularly. The stroke volume and cardiac output were increased, whereas the mean and end-diastolic pulmonary pressure were decreased, indicating a positive inotropic action of the administered drug. Heart rate and mean arterial pressure remained almost unchanged. The haemodynamic changes started 60 minutes after intramuscular administration of the drug, reached a maximum effect at 3 hours and started to decrease after the fourth hour. Zn protamine glucagon can, therefore, be considered a beneficial drug in the treatment of digitalis-resistant heart failure on the basis of its long duration of action and easy route of administration.", "PMID": 433280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1511", "title": "[Biguanide-induced and - associated lactic acidosis: serum and tissue biguanide levels in hyperlactaemia and lactic acidosis (author's transl)].", "content": "An investigation was carried out on 30 diabetic patients in an attempt to clarify the relationship between serum biguanide levels and raised lactate. No consistent relationship was demonstrable between the serum biguanide level, administered dosage and time of administration. There was also no correlation between biguanide and lactate increase. It is not justifiable to quote a specific serum level of biguanides in defining lactic acidosis. A causal association between biguanide medication and lactic acidosis seems to be possible only by determination of serum and tissue levels. Determination of biguanide levels was carried out in the serum and tissue of a patient who had died as a result of lactic acidosis after phenformin administration. While the serum levels were only slightly higher than the therapeutic range, both liver and kidney tissue showed highly toxic levels. Furthermore, the amount of biguanides in the body was calculated in another patient successfully treated for lactic acidosis after buformin therapy. A differentiation should be made between biguanide-induced and biguanide-associated lactic acidosis. In both forms serum levels can be within relatively low ranges. In the former condition, the biguanides alone are responsible for the development of lactic acidosis by blocking the respiratory chain. In the latter condition they aggravate an already existing pathological condition, and can, therefore, represent a lethal factor.", "contents": "[Biguanide-induced and - associated lactic acidosis: serum and tissue biguanide levels in hyperlactaemia and lactic acidosis (author's transl)]. An investigation was carried out on 30 diabetic patients in an attempt to clarify the relationship between serum biguanide levels and raised lactate. No consistent relationship was demonstrable between the serum biguanide level, administered dosage and time of administration. There was also no correlation between biguanide and lactate increase. It is not justifiable to quote a specific serum level of biguanides in defining lactic acidosis. A causal association between biguanide medication and lactic acidosis seems to be possible only by determination of serum and tissue levels. Determination of biguanide levels was carried out in the serum and tissue of a patient who had died as a result of lactic acidosis after phenformin administration. While the serum levels were only slightly higher than the therapeutic range, both liver and kidney tissue showed highly toxic levels. Furthermore, the amount of biguanides in the body was calculated in another patient successfully treated for lactic acidosis after buformin therapy. A differentiation should be made between biguanide-induced and biguanide-associated lactic acidosis. In both forms serum levels can be within relatively low ranges. In the former condition, the biguanides alone are responsible for the development of lactic acidosis by blocking the respiratory chain. In the latter condition they aggravate an already existing pathological condition, and can, therefore, represent a lethal factor.", "PMID": 433281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1512", "title": "[Mechanisms of R-factor coded resistance (author's transl)].", "content": "The prevalence of resistance factors (R-factors) has become a serious threat to the chemotherapeutic armament of modern medicine. These extrachromosomal elements exert their effects by supplying the harbouring bacterial cell with the genetic information for detoxifying enzymes, for the expression of biochemical mechanisms which effectively prevent antibiotic molecules from reaching their target or for the synthesis of resistant target molecules. The genes which are responsible for these effects were recently shown to reside on \"transposons\", genetic entities which can recombine with various DNA moieties, like plasmids, bacterial chromosomes, or the genome of bacteriophages. The transposon nature of most resistance determinants provide the bacterial world with an enormous flexibility in the response to antibiotic selection pressure. It is an absolute requirement for the future to stop further spread of R-factors by reducing the selection pressure. Doctors will have to apply antibiotics more selectively, and in animal breeding and growth promotion only those drugs should be used which are never prescribed for humans. Moreover, pharmaceutical research should be directed towards the development of compounds acting on R-factors or on their enzyme systems.", "contents": "[Mechanisms of R-factor coded resistance (author's transl)]. The prevalence of resistance factors (R-factors) has become a serious threat to the chemotherapeutic armament of modern medicine. These extrachromosomal elements exert their effects by supplying the harbouring bacterial cell with the genetic information for detoxifying enzymes, for the expression of biochemical mechanisms which effectively prevent antibiotic molecules from reaching their target or for the synthesis of resistant target molecules. The genes which are responsible for these effects were recently shown to reside on \"transposons\", genetic entities which can recombine with various DNA moieties, like plasmids, bacterial chromosomes, or the genome of bacteriophages. The transposon nature of most resistance determinants provide the bacterial world with an enormous flexibility in the response to antibiotic selection pressure. It is an absolute requirement for the future to stop further spread of R-factors by reducing the selection pressure. Doctors will have to apply antibiotics more selectively, and in animal breeding and growth promotion only those drugs should be used which are never prescribed for humans. Moreover, pharmaceutical research should be directed towards the development of compounds acting on R-factors or on their enzyme systems.", "PMID": 433282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1513", "title": "[Varying sensitivity of Gram-negative bacteria in the urine to nitrofurantoin itself, to combined nitrofurantoin-sulphadiazine and combined sulphonamide-trimethoprim (author's transl)].", "content": "In connexion with the compound produce, nitrofurantoin sulphadiazine (ratio 1:3), it was questioned whether the relative disc (ratio 1:1, produced by BBL-USA on the findings of Tiesler, 1969), should be incorporated in the routine testing of urinary bacteria in addition to the testing of pure nitrofurantoin. Since pure sulphonamide is not in our routine test programme the sulphonamide-trimethoprim combination was also included in the study at a later time on the basis of initial results. Statistical analysis showed the overall superiority of the combination of nitrofurantoin with sulphadiazine and, moreover, a significant difference in sensitivity of E. coli in comparison with problematic gram-negative bacteria where the sensitivity values and likewise, the discordance quota were markedly higher for the compound preparation. The sulphonamide-trimethoprim combination proved even less effective and demonstrated a higher level of discordance than with pure nitrofurantoin. Annually about 45% of all examined urinary samples yield gram-negative bacteria posing therapeutic problems. Hence, the nitrofurantoin-sulphadiazine compound product (BBL-disc) was incorporated in our routine test programme.", "contents": "[Varying sensitivity of Gram-negative bacteria in the urine to nitrofurantoin itself, to combined nitrofurantoin-sulphadiazine and combined sulphonamide-trimethoprim (author's transl)]. In connexion with the compound produce, nitrofurantoin sulphadiazine (ratio 1:3), it was questioned whether the relative disc (ratio 1:1, produced by BBL-USA on the findings of Tiesler, 1969), should be incorporated in the routine testing of urinary bacteria in addition to the testing of pure nitrofurantoin. Since pure sulphonamide is not in our routine test programme the sulphonamide-trimethoprim combination was also included in the study at a later time on the basis of initial results. Statistical analysis showed the overall superiority of the combination of nitrofurantoin with sulphadiazine and, moreover, a significant difference in sensitivity of E. coli in comparison with problematic gram-negative bacteria where the sensitivity values and likewise, the discordance quota were markedly higher for the compound preparation. The sulphonamide-trimethoprim combination proved even less effective and demonstrated a higher level of discordance than with pure nitrofurantoin. Annually about 45% of all examined urinary samples yield gram-negative bacteria posing therapeutic problems. Hence, the nitrofurantoin-sulphadiazine compound product (BBL-disc) was incorporated in our routine test programme.", "PMID": 433283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1514", "title": "[Yersinia enterocolitica--a still infrequently isolated pathogen in Austria (author's transl)].", "content": "Yersinia enterocolitica--recognized as a distinct taxonomic entity in 1964--belongs to the family of enterobacteriaceae. It has been isolated with increasing frequency from human and animal sources as well as from food and non-chlorinated water. Yersinia enterocolitica can produce enteritis in man, accompanied or followed in adults by erythema nodosum, arthralgia and/or acute arthritis. Rarely, septicaemia with a high mortality rate has been encountered. A cold-temperature enrichment method was used to examine 1135 faecal specimens; 11 were positive for Yersinia enterocolitica. Symptoms of enteritis were reported by all 8 patients whose faeces contained the bacterium; a brief description is given of the course of illness in each patient. Biochemical and serological properties of the isolates are discussed with special reference to some unusual results obtained with the commerical API-20 E system for identification of enterobacteriaceae when incubated overnight at 35 degrees C.", "contents": "[Yersinia enterocolitica--a still infrequently isolated pathogen in Austria (author's transl)]. Yersinia enterocolitica--recognized as a distinct taxonomic entity in 1964--belongs to the family of enterobacteriaceae. It has been isolated with increasing frequency from human and animal sources as well as from food and non-chlorinated water. Yersinia enterocolitica can produce enteritis in man, accompanied or followed in adults by erythema nodosum, arthralgia and/or acute arthritis. Rarely, septicaemia with a high mortality rate has been encountered. A cold-temperature enrichment method was used to examine 1135 faecal specimens; 11 were positive for Yersinia enterocolitica. Symptoms of enteritis were reported by all 8 patients whose faeces contained the bacterium; a brief description is given of the course of illness in each patient. Biochemical and serological properties of the isolates are discussed with special reference to some unusual results obtained with the commerical API-20 E system for identification of enterobacteriaceae when incubated overnight at 35 degrees C.", "PMID": 433284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1515", "title": "[Bicycle spoke injuries in children (author's transl)].", "content": "140 typical bicycle spoke injuries in children were seen during two years in the Pediatric Surgical Hospital of the University of Graz (Austria). 15% of the patients had bone fractures. In order to prevent such accidents satisfactory child seats, special foot supports and protective canvas over the upper half of the wheel are necessary.", "contents": "[Bicycle spoke injuries in children (author's transl)]. 140 typical bicycle spoke injuries in children were seen during two years in the Pediatric Surgical Hospital of the University of Graz (Austria). 15% of the patients had bone fractures. In order to prevent such accidents satisfactory child seats, special foot supports and protective canvas over the upper half of the wheel are necessary.", "PMID": 433294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1516", "title": "[Early diagnosis of cancer of colorectal carcinoma by rectosigmoidoscopy (author's transl)].", "content": "The colorectal cancers in greater part grow out of polyps, which can be looked upon as optional precancerosis. Own results together with literature-reports show a distinct increase of the frequency of polyps beyond the age of fortyfive. The only digital palpation of the rectum is insufficient; it leads to the diagnosis of a rectum polyp only in 15.5%, to the diagnosis of a cancer in 13% of cases. With the rectosigmoidoscopy however the diagnosis is successful in 70% of cases. The percentage of precancerous polypous alterations detected by rectosigmoidoscopy is approximately the same in medical check-up as in directed examinations of patients with anorectal discomfort. A restriction of rectosigmoidoscopy to the last-named group of persons is not any longer justified. The polypectomy in the rectum is a real cancer-prevention.", "contents": "[Early diagnosis of cancer of colorectal carcinoma by rectosigmoidoscopy (author's transl)]. The colorectal cancers in greater part grow out of polyps, which can be looked upon as optional precancerosis. Own results together with literature-reports show a distinct increase of the frequency of polyps beyond the age of fortyfive. The only digital palpation of the rectum is insufficient; it leads to the diagnosis of a rectum polyp only in 15.5%, to the diagnosis of a cancer in 13% of cases. With the rectosigmoidoscopy however the diagnosis is successful in 70% of cases. The percentage of precancerous polypous alterations detected by rectosigmoidoscopy is approximately the same in medical check-up as in directed examinations of patients with anorectal discomfort. A restriction of rectosigmoidoscopy to the last-named group of persons is not any longer justified. The polypectomy in the rectum is a real cancer-prevention.", "PMID": 433295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1517", "title": "[Subacute idiopathic autoimmunehemolytic anemia with prolonged aplastic phase and erythremic reaction (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia with subacute onset and peculiar course is reported. In the beginning of the disease there was a long lasting severe aplastic phase, during which numerous blood transfusions were required. The low antiglobuline test titre compared with the severe hemolytic activity and the ineffective erythropoesis suggested first of all the presence of pure red cell anemia. Later on blood regeneration with erythroblastosis started and resembled the picture of erythremic myelosis. The transient course of the disease with full normalisation of all blood values and continuous remission lasting now for more than one year is a peculiar variant of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia.", "contents": "[Subacute idiopathic autoimmunehemolytic anemia with prolonged aplastic phase and erythremic reaction (author's transl)]. A case of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia with subacute onset and peculiar course is reported. In the beginning of the disease there was a long lasting severe aplastic phase, during which numerous blood transfusions were required. The low antiglobuline test titre compared with the severe hemolytic activity and the ineffective erythropoesis suggested first of all the presence of pure red cell anemia. Later on blood regeneration with erythroblastosis started and resembled the picture of erythremic myelosis. The transient course of the disease with full normalisation of all blood values and continuous remission lasting now for more than one year is a peculiar variant of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia.", "PMID": 433296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1518", "title": "[Age at correction and postoperative hypertension in isolated coarctation of the aorta (author's transl)].", "content": "A follow-up study of 46 cases of isolated coarctation of the aorta (age at surgical treatment 1 to 48 years) is presented. The late postoperative blood pressure was the higher the later surgical treatment was carried out. When surgical treatment was carried out at an age of more than 14 years, an increase of the residual hypertension rate was observed. A relatively low rate of residual hypertension can be expected after correction at about 6 to 10 years. Surgical treatment in infancy does not seem to have beneficial effects since according to other reports correction at this age does not reduce the residual hypertension rate essentially. Apart from the elevated residual hypertension rate surgical treatment at an advanced age generally has a lowering effect on blood pressure values.", "contents": "[Age at correction and postoperative hypertension in isolated coarctation of the aorta (author's transl)]. A follow-up study of 46 cases of isolated coarctation of the aorta (age at surgical treatment 1 to 48 years) is presented. The late postoperative blood pressure was the higher the later surgical treatment was carried out. When surgical treatment was carried out at an age of more than 14 years, an increase of the residual hypertension rate was observed. A relatively low rate of residual hypertension can be expected after correction at about 6 to 10 years. Surgical treatment in infancy does not seem to have beneficial effects since according to other reports correction at this age does not reduce the residual hypertension rate essentially. Apart from the elevated residual hypertension rate surgical treatment at an advanced age generally has a lowering effect on blood pressure values.", "PMID": 433297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1519", "title": "[Prenatal diagnosis of trisomy-18-fetus of two women with chromosomal aberrations (author's transl)].", "content": "In two pregnant women a prenatal diagnosis was performed because of their advanced age. In both cases trisomy 18 was found. The mothers had chromosomal variations, not known until then. In one woman a structural aberrant chromosome No. 9 was found, the other woman had a gonosomal mosaic. In connection with the advanced maternal age these chromosomal findings possibly induced the trisomies in the children.", "contents": "[Prenatal diagnosis of trisomy-18-fetus of two women with chromosomal aberrations (author's transl)]. In two pregnant women a prenatal diagnosis was performed because of their advanced age. In both cases trisomy 18 was found. The mothers had chromosomal variations, not known until then. In one woman a structural aberrant chromosome No. 9 was found, the other woman had a gonosomal mosaic. In connection with the advanced maternal age these chromosomal findings possibly induced the trisomies in the children.", "PMID": 433298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1520", "title": "Comparison of rate of hepatic metabolism in vitro and half-life for antipyrine in vivo in three species.", "content": "1. A radiometric assay for the total metabolism of antipyrine in vitro by hepatic microsomal preparations has been developed. 2. Apparent Km and V values for the process were determined in rats, rabbits and in a marsupial (the quokka; Setomix brachyurus). Km values were similar in rats and rabbits (3.5 and 5 mM respectively) but were somewhat lower in quokkas (1.4--1.5 mM). Estimates of V ranged from 49--64 nmol/mg microsomal protein/10 min and were similar in all three species. Pretreatment of rabbits with phenobarbitone significantly increased V without change in Km. 3. Studies in individual rabbits and quokkas showed a good correlation between rate of hepatic microsomal metabolism of antipyrine in vitro and its half-life in vivo.", "contents": "Comparison of rate of hepatic metabolism in vitro and half-life for antipyrine in vivo in three species. 1. A radiometric assay for the total metabolism of antipyrine in vitro by hepatic microsomal preparations has been developed. 2. Apparent Km and V values for the process were determined in rats, rabbits and in a marsupial (the quokka; Setomix brachyurus). Km values were similar in rats and rabbits (3.5 and 5 mM respectively) but were somewhat lower in quokkas (1.4--1.5 mM). Estimates of V ranged from 49--64 nmol/mg microsomal protein/10 min and were similar in all three species. Pretreatment of rabbits with phenobarbitone significantly increased V without change in Km. 3. Studies in individual rabbits and quokkas showed a good correlation between rate of hepatic microsomal metabolism of antipyrine in vitro and its half-life in vivo.", "PMID": 433309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1521", "title": "The metabolism of benzyclane [1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)cycloheptane] in rat and man.", "content": "1. Two metabolites, isolated from the urine of rats dosed with bencyclane fumarate, were characterized as cis-1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)-4-hydroxycycloheptane (metabolite I) and 1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)-4-oxocycloheptane (metabolite II). 2. Bencyclane and the two metabolites were determined in the urine of rats and volunteers by g.l.c. Metabolite I was a major metabolite in men, being excreted in urine to the extent of 23.5% dose in the first 24 h.", "contents": "The metabolism of benzyclane [1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)cycloheptane] in rat and man. 1. Two metabolites, isolated from the urine of rats dosed with bencyclane fumarate, were characterized as cis-1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)-4-hydroxycycloheptane (metabolite I) and 1-benzyl-1-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropoxy)-4-oxocycloheptane (metabolite II). 2. Bencyclane and the two metabolites were determined in the urine of rats and volunteers by g.l.c. Metabolite I was a major metabolite in men, being excreted in urine to the extent of 23.5% dose in the first 24 h.", "PMID": 433310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1522", "title": "Metabolism of beclamide, N-benzyl-3-chloropropionamide, in man.", "content": "1. Following oral administration of [14C]beclamide to human subjects there was almost complete elimination of radioactivity in the urine within 48 h. 2. Less than 1% of the administered dose was excreted unchanged. 3. The major metabolites were (a) N-(4-hydroxybenzyl)-3-chloropropionamide, (4-hydroxybeclamide; c. 56%), which was eliminated to a small extent in the free form and as a sulphate but mainly as a glucuronide, and (b) hippuric acid (c. 20%). 4. Six minor metabolites were also detected, of which the following were identified: benzoic acid (up to c. 7%), N-(4-hydroxybenzyl-3-chloro-2-hydroxypropionamide, (dihydroxy-beclamide; c. 2%, mostly as a glucuronide) and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (c. 0.6%, partly as a glucuronide).", "contents": "Metabolism of beclamide, N-benzyl-3-chloropropionamide, in man. 1. Following oral administration of [14C]beclamide to human subjects there was almost complete elimination of radioactivity in the urine within 48 h. 2. Less than 1% of the administered dose was excreted unchanged. 3. The major metabolites were (a) N-(4-hydroxybenzyl)-3-chloropropionamide, (4-hydroxybeclamide; c. 56%), which was eliminated to a small extent in the free form and as a sulphate but mainly as a glucuronide, and (b) hippuric acid (c. 20%). 4. Six minor metabolites were also detected, of which the following were identified: benzoic acid (up to c. 7%), N-(4-hydroxybenzyl-3-chloro-2-hydroxypropionamide, (dihydroxy-beclamide; c. 2%, mostly as a glucuronide) and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (c. 0.6%, partly as a glucuronide).", "PMID": 433311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1523", "title": "Metabolism of chlorodiphenyl ethers and Irgasan DP 300.", "content": "1. In the rat chlorodiphenyl ethers are metabolized via two routes. The predominant reaction is aromatic hydroxylation; scission of the ether bond is a minor metabolic process. 2. In all cases, primary hydroxylation takes place ortho and meta to the ether bond. Ortho-hydroxylation leads to the formation of 'predioxins' in cases where the parent compounds contain a chlorine atom in one of the ortho positions in the second ring. 3. 5-Chloro-2-(2,4--dichlorophenoxy)phenol (Irgasan DP 300), a compound that meets the structural requirements of a predioxin, did not yield chlorodibenzo-p-dioxins or hydroxylated derivatives thereof. 4. Irgasan DP 300 is excreted unchanged in faeces and urine (partly conjugated) but is also hydroxylated to five different monohydroxy metabolites which were found in urine; three of these were also present in faeces. As a result of scission of the ether bond 2,4-dichlorophenol occurred in urine and faeces, and 4-chlorocatechol in urine. 5. Neither in the case of Irgasan DP 300, nor in that of chlorodiphenyl ethers with an ortho chlorine atom, could metabolic cyclization to chlorodibenzofurans or their hydroxylated derivatives be detected.", "contents": "Metabolism of chlorodiphenyl ethers and Irgasan DP 300. 1. In the rat chlorodiphenyl ethers are metabolized via two routes. The predominant reaction is aromatic hydroxylation; scission of the ether bond is a minor metabolic process. 2. In all cases, primary hydroxylation takes place ortho and meta to the ether bond. Ortho-hydroxylation leads to the formation of 'predioxins' in cases where the parent compounds contain a chlorine atom in one of the ortho positions in the second ring. 3. 5-Chloro-2-(2,4--dichlorophenoxy)phenol (Irgasan DP 300), a compound that meets the structural requirements of a predioxin, did not yield chlorodibenzo-p-dioxins or hydroxylated derivatives thereof. 4. Irgasan DP 300 is excreted unchanged in faeces and urine (partly conjugated) but is also hydroxylated to five different monohydroxy metabolites which were found in urine; three of these were also present in faeces. As a result of scission of the ether bond 2,4-dichlorophenol occurred in urine and faeces, and 4-chlorocatechol in urine. 5. Neither in the case of Irgasan DP 300, nor in that of chlorodiphenyl ethers with an ortho chlorine atom, could metabolic cyclization to chlorodibenzofurans or their hydroxylated derivatives be detected.", "PMID": 433312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1524", "title": "Biotransformation of alprenolol in dog, guinea-pig and rat liver microsomes.", "content": "1. Metabolites of alprenolol were isolated and identified in dog, guinea-pig and rat liver microsomes by means of g.l.c.-mass spectrometry and comparison with synthetic reference compounds. 2. The compounds were chromatographed as n-butylboronate derivatives, giving a series of diagnostic ions in the mass spectral fragmentation, which was elucidated by using stable isotopes. 3. Alprenolol was metabolized by aromatic ring hydroxylation, oxidation of the allylic function, and degradation of the isopropylaminopropanol side-chain. Alprenolol and four metabolites were quantified by h.p.l.c. and batch extraction techniques based on radioactivity measurements. 4. Five metabolites were detected in rat and guinea-pig liver microsomes and four in the dog. A species variation in the biotransformation of the allyl function in alprenolol was observed. The metabolite formed by oxidation of the allyl double bond was detected in significant amounts in the guinea-pig, and was also formed in the rat but could not be detected in dog liver microsomes.", "contents": "Biotransformation of alprenolol in dog, guinea-pig and rat liver microsomes. 1. Metabolites of alprenolol were isolated and identified in dog, guinea-pig and rat liver microsomes by means of g.l.c.-mass spectrometry and comparison with synthetic reference compounds. 2. The compounds were chromatographed as n-butylboronate derivatives, giving a series of diagnostic ions in the mass spectral fragmentation, which was elucidated by using stable isotopes. 3. Alprenolol was metabolized by aromatic ring hydroxylation, oxidation of the allylic function, and degradation of the isopropylaminopropanol side-chain. Alprenolol and four metabolites were quantified by h.p.l.c. and batch extraction techniques based on radioactivity measurements. 4. Five metabolites were detected in rat and guinea-pig liver microsomes and four in the dog. A species variation in the biotransformation of the allyl function in alprenolol was observed. The metabolite formed by oxidation of the allyl double bond was detected in significant amounts in the guinea-pig, and was also formed in the rat but could not be detected in dog liver microsomes.", "PMID": 433313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1525", "title": "Identification of urinary and biliary metabolites of alprenolol in the rat.", "content": "1. After oral administration of alprenolol to rat, 12 metabolites were isolated and characterized as trifluoroacetyl, trimethylsilyl and n-butylboronate derivatives, using a g.l.c.-mass spectrometry-computer system. Fragmentation pathways of derivatives in the mass-spectrometric analysis are discussed. 2. Metabolic reactions involved are oxidative degradation of the propanolisopropylamine side-chain, aromatic hydroxylation, oxidation of the allyl group, and conjugation. A method for direct analysis of epoxide functions in the allyl group is described. 3. In comparison with metabolism of alprenolol in vitro, more polar metabolites are formed in vivo but the same principal metabolic pathways are valid. Structural features for biliary excretion are discussed.", "contents": "Identification of urinary and biliary metabolites of alprenolol in the rat. 1. After oral administration of alprenolol to rat, 12 metabolites were isolated and characterized as trifluoroacetyl, trimethylsilyl and n-butylboronate derivatives, using a g.l.c.-mass spectrometry-computer system. Fragmentation pathways of derivatives in the mass-spectrometric analysis are discussed. 2. Metabolic reactions involved are oxidative degradation of the propanolisopropylamine side-chain, aromatic hydroxylation, oxidation of the allyl group, and conjugation. A method for direct analysis of epoxide functions in the allyl group is described. 3. In comparison with metabolism of alprenolol in vitro, more polar metabolites are formed in vivo but the same principal metabolic pathways are valid. Structural features for biliary excretion are discussed.", "PMID": 433314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1526", "title": "[Reference values of the residual volume for the rvo2-method (author's transl)].", "content": "Residual volume and the relative RV/TLC (total lung capacity) were measured in 632 men and 191 women aged 15 to 70 years. The residual volume showed a significant correlation to age and body height, but not to the relative body weight (Broca-Index). The values of RV/TLC showed a correlation to age and Broca-Index, but not to the body height. The regression formular to calculate the normal range are given; they comply with the data of other authors.", "contents": "[Reference values of the residual volume for the rvo2-method (author's transl)]. Residual volume and the relative RV/TLC (total lung capacity) were measured in 632 men and 191 women aged 15 to 70 years. The residual volume showed a significant correlation to age and body height, but not to the relative body weight (Broca-Index). The values of RV/TLC showed a correlation to age and Broca-Index, but not to the body height. The regression formular to calculate the normal range are given; they comply with the data of other authors.", "PMID": 433324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1527", "title": "[Theophylline therapy--foundations and possibilities (author's transl)].", "content": "Theophylline is one of the best drugs for the therapy of bronchial asthma. There is no great difference between therapeutic and toxic concentration. Several endogenous and exogenous factors influence the pharmacokinetics. Changes in a short time are possible in situations complicated by further diseases. Estimations of the theophylline concentration in plasma or serum are necessary for optimizing therapy. The frequency is depending on the individual situation.", "contents": "[Theophylline therapy--foundations and possibilities (author's transl)]. Theophylline is one of the best drugs for the therapy of bronchial asthma. There is no great difference between therapeutic and toxic concentration. Several endogenous and exogenous factors influence the pharmacokinetics. Changes in a short time are possible in situations complicated by further diseases. Estimations of the theophylline concentration in plasma or serum are necessary for optimizing therapy. The frequency is depending on the individual situation.", "PMID": 433325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1528", "title": "[Dispensary care of persons suffering from non-tuberculous respiratory diseases in czechoslovakia (author's transl)].", "content": "In Czechoslovakia phtisiology was enlarged into the specialization of tuberculosis and respiratory diseases by a decree of the Ministry of Health in 1966. The dispensary care of pneumophtisiological institutions aims--besides tuberculosis control--especially at the following groups of patients suffering from non-tuberculous respiratory diseases: 1. cases having tendency to deterioration or with a complicated course, 2. cases with functional disorders of the respiratory system, 3. cases in conditions which may influence unfavourably the respiratory disease. When patients with non-tuberculous respiratory diseases are in the care of other physicians, the pneumophtisiologists render necessary consultations and decide which patients will be taken over into the dispensary care of pneumophtisiological department.", "contents": "[Dispensary care of persons suffering from non-tuberculous respiratory diseases in czechoslovakia (author's transl)]. In Czechoslovakia phtisiology was enlarged into the specialization of tuberculosis and respiratory diseases by a decree of the Ministry of Health in 1966. The dispensary care of pneumophtisiological institutions aims--besides tuberculosis control--especially at the following groups of patients suffering from non-tuberculous respiratory diseases: 1. cases having tendency to deterioration or with a complicated course, 2. cases with functional disorders of the respiratory system, 3. cases in conditions which may influence unfavourably the respiratory disease. When patients with non-tuberculous respiratory diseases are in the care of other physicians, the pneumophtisiologists render necessary consultations and decide which patients will be taken over into the dispensary care of pneumophtisiological department.", "PMID": 433326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1529", "title": "[Ultrastructural and autoradiographical investigations of early changes in experimental lung fibrosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Electron microscopical, autoradiographical and histochemical investigations were carried out in experimental lipid pneumonia, 6 weeks after exposure to mineral oil. In the lungs developed granulomatous changes with fibroblasts, some macrophages and leucocytes. With the aid of electron microscopy an increased number of fibroblasts with predominantly extracellular localized collagen fibers were visible in the granulomatous foci. Autoradiograms with 3H-Thymidine show an six-fold increase of number of radioactive labelled nuclei of fibroblasts in the granulomatous areas. This two methods--electron microscopy and autoradiography--appear sufficient for early detection of changes in experimental lung fibrosis.", "contents": "[Ultrastructural and autoradiographical investigations of early changes in experimental lung fibrosis (author's transl)]. Electron microscopical, autoradiographical and histochemical investigations were carried out in experimental lipid pneumonia, 6 weeks after exposure to mineral oil. In the lungs developed granulomatous changes with fibroblasts, some macrophages and leucocytes. With the aid of electron microscopy an increased number of fibroblasts with predominantly extracellular localized collagen fibers were visible in the granulomatous foci. Autoradiograms with 3H-Thymidine show an six-fold increase of number of radioactive labelled nuclei of fibroblasts in the granulomatous areas. This two methods--electron microscopy and autoradiography--appear sufficient for early detection of changes in experimental lung fibrosis.", "PMID": 433327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1530", "title": "[On the problem of radiation damage caused by roentgenography of the thorax (author's transl)].", "content": "The risk factors for radiation induced cancer (no dose threshold) given by UNSCEAR and ICRP are discussed. Under the (uncertain) supposition of the validity of these values for the roentgendiagnostic the number of cases induced by the mass screenings (VRRU) are estimated (lung and breast cancer, leukaemia). For 30 radiophotofluorographs of the thorax per person during the whole life there may be induced about 180 cancer of the lung, 5 of the breast and 27 leukaemias each year. These numbers are compared with the cases per year of lung tuberculosis and lung cancer found by VRRU. The connection between the cases of cancer and the irradiation cannot be validated statistically.", "contents": "[On the problem of radiation damage caused by roentgenography of the thorax (author's transl)]. The risk factors for radiation induced cancer (no dose threshold) given by UNSCEAR and ICRP are discussed. Under the (uncertain) supposition of the validity of these values for the roentgendiagnostic the number of cases induced by the mass screenings (VRRU) are estimated (lung and breast cancer, leukaemia). For 30 radiophotofluorographs of the thorax per person during the whole life there may be induced about 180 cancer of the lung, 5 of the breast and 27 leukaemias each year. These numbers are compared with the cases per year of lung tuberculosis and lung cancer found by VRRU. The connection between the cases of cancer and the irradiation cannot be validated statistically.", "PMID": 433328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1531", "title": "[Contribution to aetiology by the primary pulmonary sarcoma in comparison to the pulmonary carcinoma (author's transl)].", "content": "On 41 primary pulmonary sarcomas in the years 1957 till 1974 and on 192 pulmonary carcinomas in the year 1969 cancerogene noxes and endogene factors were analysed, compared and discussed with literature. Smoking of cigarettes, chronic bronchitis and radioactive radiation at underground mining are also significantly accumulated in our study and are recognized as cancerogenes. There is no correlation between pulmonary sarcomas and these exogene factors. The constant frequency in the last decades, the non-existing sex disposition, the ten till fifteen years lower sarcoma manifestation with a continuous increase already in the second decade of life and the protected position of the mesenchyme do not suggest a causal connexion between exogene cancerogene influence and pulmonary sarcoma formation. Rather make us suppose an endogene tumour disposition. Pulmonary sarcomas correlate as to localisation, sex relation and not provable exogene cancerogena with the adenocarcinoma of the lungs. The causal connexion between trauma and sarcoma formation in a thoracotomy cicatrice as well as the possibility of a sarcomatous degeneration are discussed.", "contents": "[Contribution to aetiology by the primary pulmonary sarcoma in comparison to the pulmonary carcinoma (author's transl)]. On 41 primary pulmonary sarcomas in the years 1957 till 1974 and on 192 pulmonary carcinomas in the year 1969 cancerogene noxes and endogene factors were analysed, compared and discussed with literature. Smoking of cigarettes, chronic bronchitis and radioactive radiation at underground mining are also significantly accumulated in our study and are recognized as cancerogenes. There is no correlation between pulmonary sarcomas and these exogene factors. The constant frequency in the last decades, the non-existing sex disposition, the ten till fifteen years lower sarcoma manifestation with a continuous increase already in the second decade of life and the protected position of the mesenchyme do not suggest a causal connexion between exogene cancerogene influence and pulmonary sarcoma formation. Rather make us suppose an endogene tumour disposition. Pulmonary sarcomas correlate as to localisation, sex relation and not provable exogene cancerogena with the adenocarcinoma of the lungs. The causal connexion between trauma and sarcoma formation in a thoracotomy cicatrice as well as the possibility of a sarcomatous degeneration are discussed.", "PMID": 433329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1532", "title": "Two cases of anomalies of the bronchi combined with cancer in the lung.", "content": "Two cases of right-sided bronchus anomalies are described. These represent two groups, stated in the literature to be the commonest anomalies, viz. displaced apical bronchus and bronchus cardiacus superior. The first case was combined with an epidermoid carcinoma localized to the displaced apical bronchus and was found during surgery. In the second case, the anomaly was diagnosed by bronchoscopy and verified by thoracotomy with bilobectomy for adenocarcinoma. Anomalies of these types should be borne in mind in the bronchoscopic assessment of the operability and treatment of benign and malignant pulmonary disease.", "contents": "Two cases of anomalies of the bronchi combined with cancer in the lung. Two cases of right-sided bronchus anomalies are described. These represent two groups, stated in the literature to be the commonest anomalies, viz. displaced apical bronchus and bronchus cardiacus superior. The first case was combined with an epidermoid carcinoma localized to the displaced apical bronchus and was found during surgery. In the second case, the anomaly was diagnosed by bronchoscopy and verified by thoracotomy with bilobectomy for adenocarcinoma. Anomalies of these types should be borne in mind in the bronchoscopic assessment of the operability and treatment of benign and malignant pulmonary disease.", "PMID": 433330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1533", "title": "[The situation of tuberculosis-beds in GDR (author's transl)].", "content": "The development of the Chest Hospitals and Sanatoria in GDR is discussed and compared with data on the trend of tuberculosis beds in the world given by BULLA (WHO). The density of beds of about 1 per 10 000 of the population for diagnostics and treatment of patients with pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis is very low. This results from a planned tuberculosis control with a steady decrease of tuberculosis incidence and a continuous diminishing of the duration of hospital treatment in favour of ambulatory therapy. Other indices representing the effectivity of hospital care (beds accomodated, duration of stay, costs and working power per hospital bed and hospitalized patient in the last 5 years are discussed.", "contents": "[The situation of tuberculosis-beds in GDR (author's transl)]. The development of the Chest Hospitals and Sanatoria in GDR is discussed and compared with data on the trend of tuberculosis beds in the world given by BULLA (WHO). The density of beds of about 1 per 10 000 of the population for diagnostics and treatment of patients with pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis is very low. This results from a planned tuberculosis control with a steady decrease of tuberculosis incidence and a continuous diminishing of the duration of hospital treatment in favour of ambulatory therapy. Other indices representing the effectivity of hospital care (beds accomodated, duration of stay, costs and working power per hospital bed and hospitalized patient in the last 5 years are discussed.", "PMID": 433331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1534", "title": "[Fundamentals of antithrombotic therapy].", "content": "The physiological and biochemical reactions leading to intravascular clot formation are reported on as far as their representation is required for an understanindg of the pathogenesis of thrombosis and its pharmacological control.", "contents": "[Fundamentals of antithrombotic therapy]. The physiological and biochemical reactions leading to intravascular clot formation are reported on as far as their representation is required for an understanindg of the pathogenesis of thrombosis and its pharmacological control.", "PMID": 433359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1535", "title": "[Experience in thrombosis prevention and treatment in operative medicine].", "content": "Thromboembolic diseases are frequent sequelae of surgical interventions. On account of the possible severe effects an aimed prophylaxis of thrombosis in operative medicine is necessary. The classical anticoagulants may be used in surgery, if the adequate possibilities of control are present. The use of heparin in low dosage reduces the expenditure of control. Experiences with an own variant of the heparin treatment are reported in which heparin is applied intravenously. The use of tetracyclines as well as the control of the factor XIII level and, if necessary, substitution of the factor XIII are recommended. When thrombosis in the venous system appeared the conservative methods in comparison to operative thrombectomy are preferred.", "contents": "[Experience in thrombosis prevention and treatment in operative medicine]. Thromboembolic diseases are frequent sequelae of surgical interventions. On account of the possible severe effects an aimed prophylaxis of thrombosis in operative medicine is necessary. The classical anticoagulants may be used in surgery, if the adequate possibilities of control are present. The use of heparin in low dosage reduces the expenditure of control. Experiences with an own variant of the heparin treatment are reported in which heparin is applied intravenously. The use of tetracyclines as well as the control of the factor XIII level and, if necessary, substitution of the factor XIII are recommended. When thrombosis in the venous system appeared the conservative methods in comparison to operative thrombectomy are preferred.", "PMID": 433360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1536", "title": "[Prevention and treatment of leg vein thrombosis in obstetrics and gynecology].", "content": "After a short introduction concerning the pathophysiology of thrombosis and the historical development of the anticoagulant therapy the indications and the clinical experiences of the antithrombotic therapy in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology are described. The treatment of the thrombosis of the femoral veins and the methods of the therapy control are described.", "contents": "[Prevention and treatment of leg vein thrombosis in obstetrics and gynecology]. After a short introduction concerning the pathophysiology of thrombosis and the historical development of the anticoagulant therapy the indications and the clinical experiences of the antithrombotic therapy in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology are described. The treatment of the thrombosis of the femoral veins and the methods of the therapy control are described.", "PMID": 433361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1537", "title": "[Pharmacology of oral anticoagulants].", "content": "The present view on the mechanism of vitamin K-dependent synthesis of the clotting factors II, VII, IX and X in the liver and its inhibition by 4-hydroxycoumarine and 1,3-indandione-type anticoagulants is given. The discovery of gamma-carboxyglutamyl residues in intact clotting factors and the role of this amino acid as the calcium-binding principle is pointed out. After general considerations on the pharmacokinetics of coumarine-type anticoagulants detailed information on the pharmacokinetics of phenprocoumon, almost exclusively used in the GDR, is presented. The importance of pharmacokinetic aspects for control of oral anticoagulation is emphasized. As a possible tool for evaluation of individual pharmacokinetic parameters during already ongoing medication the additional administration of a single dose of radioactively labelled anticoagulant is proposed. Toxic effects in case of overdosage, untoward reactions and interference with oral anticoagulants by comedication are described.", "contents": "[Pharmacology of oral anticoagulants]. The present view on the mechanism of vitamin K-dependent synthesis of the clotting factors II, VII, IX and X in the liver and its inhibition by 4-hydroxycoumarine and 1,3-indandione-type anticoagulants is given. The discovery of gamma-carboxyglutamyl residues in intact clotting factors and the role of this amino acid as the calcium-binding principle is pointed out. After general considerations on the pharmacokinetics of coumarine-type anticoagulants detailed information on the pharmacokinetics of phenprocoumon, almost exclusively used in the GDR, is presented. The importance of pharmacokinetic aspects for control of oral anticoagulation is emphasized. As a possible tool for evaluation of individual pharmacokinetic parameters during already ongoing medication the additional administration of a single dose of radioactively labelled anticoagulant is proposed. Toxic effects in case of overdosage, untoward reactions and interference with oral anticoagulants by comedication are described.", "PMID": 433362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1538", "title": "[Hepatitis B and chronic lymphadenosis].", "content": "It is reported on a 79-year-old female patient who died from coma hepaticum. As evoking cause an immunesuppressive treatment with cyclophosphamide or prednisolone, respectively, on account of chronic lymphadenosis with excessive thrombocytopenia is discussed. An accessible preliminary lesion of the liver after an infectious jaundice with persistence of the HBs-antigen from which the patient formerly suffered is probable. It is referred to the combination of the chronic aggressive hepatitis with malignant systemic diseases and immunopathy, taking into consideration the decision of therapy.", "contents": "[Hepatitis B and chronic lymphadenosis]. It is reported on a 79-year-old female patient who died from coma hepaticum. As evoking cause an immunesuppressive treatment with cyclophosphamide or prednisolone, respectively, on account of chronic lymphadenosis with excessive thrombocytopenia is discussed. An accessible preliminary lesion of the liver after an infectious jaundice with persistence of the HBs-antigen from which the patient formerly suffered is probable. It is referred to the combination of the chronic aggressive hepatitis with malignant systemic diseases and immunopathy, taking into consideration the decision of therapy.", "PMID": 433364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1539", "title": "[Fine needle percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC)].", "content": "The percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography with thin needle was performed in 40 patients for the diagnostic clarification of epigastric complaints after cholecystectomy and of a cholestasis syndrome. A successful demonstration of the duct was achieved altogether in 80%, in an extrahepatic obstruction in 93.3%. The only complication was a choleresis into the free abdominal cavity, which could be operatively treated without any sequels. By the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography in the majority of patients pathologic changes were diagnosed, which remained latent when up to now usual methods were performed and which had therapeutic consequences. The high exactness, the slight load of the patient, minimum cost and unproblematic sterilisation are essential advantages of the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography which justify a broader use. The complication rate may be kept low by the slight calibre of the needle and by suitable investigation technique.", "contents": "[Fine needle percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC)]. The percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography with thin needle was performed in 40 patients for the diagnostic clarification of epigastric complaints after cholecystectomy and of a cholestasis syndrome. A successful demonstration of the duct was achieved altogether in 80%, in an extrahepatic obstruction in 93.3%. The only complication was a choleresis into the free abdominal cavity, which could be operatively treated without any sequels. By the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography in the majority of patients pathologic changes were diagnosed, which remained latent when up to now usual methods were performed and which had therapeutic consequences. The high exactness, the slight load of the patient, minimum cost and unproblematic sterilisation are essential advantages of the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography which justify a broader use. The complication rate may be kept low by the slight calibre of the needle and by suitable investigation technique.", "PMID": 433365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1540", "title": "[Percutaneous transhepatic--versus endoscopic retrograde cholangiography in the differential diagnosis of cholestasis? (author's transl)].", "content": "Since the introduction of the Chiba needle the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) became an established method in the differential diagnosis of cholestasis beside the endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). From the clinical point of view it is sometimes difficult to decide which of these two techniques should be preferred. In case of absolute or relative contraindications or in case of failure of one of the two methods ERC and PTC can be used alternatively. In all other cases we feel that the PTC by means of the Chiba needle is superior because of easier technical handling and higher success rate. In addition PTC is less trying for the patients. However on the basis of our own experience is should be stressed, that even by using skinny needles there is danger of bile leakage, which necessitates an immediate surgical intervention in the presence of biliary obstruction.", "contents": "[Percutaneous transhepatic--versus endoscopic retrograde cholangiography in the differential diagnosis of cholestasis? (author's transl)]. Since the introduction of the Chiba needle the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) became an established method in the differential diagnosis of cholestasis beside the endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). From the clinical point of view it is sometimes difficult to decide which of these two techniques should be preferred. In case of absolute or relative contraindications or in case of failure of one of the two methods ERC and PTC can be used alternatively. In all other cases we feel that the PTC by means of the Chiba needle is superior because of easier technical handling and higher success rate. In addition PTC is less trying for the patients. However on the basis of our own experience is should be stressed, that even by using skinny needles there is danger of bile leakage, which necessitates an immediate surgical intervention in the presence of biliary obstruction.", "PMID": 433366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1541", "title": "[Anatomical distribution of a CCK-oktapeptide like substance in the human brain (author's transl)].", "content": "Using Gastrin 14-17 as immunogen it was possible to raise an antiserum, which showed a high sensitivity for the C-terminal octapeptide of CCK in a radioimmunoassay with 125J-gastrin as tracerhormon. High immuno-reactivity could be demonstrated in the grey and white matter of the human cortex as well as in the putamen and nucleus caudatus using this assay. By comparing the unknown brain substance with different peptides in different physico-chemical systems, the brain substance was shown to be homogenous and being similar to CCK-8.", "contents": "[Anatomical distribution of a CCK-oktapeptide like substance in the human brain (author's transl)]. Using Gastrin 14-17 as immunogen it was possible to raise an antiserum, which showed a high sensitivity for the C-terminal octapeptide of CCK in a radioimmunoassay with 125J-gastrin as tracerhormon. High immuno-reactivity could be demonstrated in the grey and white matter of the human cortex as well as in the putamen and nucleus caudatus using this assay. By comparing the unknown brain substance with different peptides in different physico-chemical systems, the brain substance was shown to be homogenous and being similar to CCK-8.", "PMID": 433367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1542", "title": "[Studies on drug metabolism in obese men and mice (author's transl)].", "content": "In 7 obese patients with an overweight of 53 +/- 19% of Broca we found a 2-fold enlarged apparent volume of distribution and a nearly 2-fold prolonged elimination halflife of hexobarbital; the hexobarbital plasma clearance however, which is nearly identical with the metabolizing capacity of the liver for hexobarbital, was not decreased. Phenobarbital induced the microsomal drugmetabolizing enzyme system in the fatty liver of genetically obese mice in the same way 2-3-fold as in the non-fatty liver of the lean littermates.", "contents": "[Studies on drug metabolism in obese men and mice (author's transl)]. In 7 obese patients with an overweight of 53 +/- 19% of Broca we found a 2-fold enlarged apparent volume of distribution and a nearly 2-fold prolonged elimination halflife of hexobarbital; the hexobarbital plasma clearance however, which is nearly identical with the metabolizing capacity of the liver for hexobarbital, was not decreased. Phenobarbital induced the microsomal drugmetabolizing enzyme system in the fatty liver of genetically obese mice in the same way 2-3-fold as in the non-fatty liver of the lean littermates.", "PMID": 433368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1543", "title": "[Colon carcinoma pathogenesis. An epidemiological study (author's transl)].", "content": "The mean incidence age for rectal carcinoma in women rose significantly in the township of Karlsruhe between 1971-1975 from 61,5 to 70,9 years, while the incidence age for colon carcinoma in men decreased significantly from 67,5 to 65,0 years. In the world incidence statistics of colon carcinoma in males, Karlsruhe ranks 16th (13,2 cases per 100 000 inhabitants), whereas the city ranks second for rectal carcinoma in males (18,5 cases/100 000). Prevalence patterns of gastric, colonic, and rectal carcinoma differ between individual districts of Karlsruhe. Time-related pathogenetic influence factors are discussed in extenso.", "contents": "[Colon carcinoma pathogenesis. An epidemiological study (author's transl)]. The mean incidence age for rectal carcinoma in women rose significantly in the township of Karlsruhe between 1971-1975 from 61,5 to 70,9 years, while the incidence age for colon carcinoma in men decreased significantly from 67,5 to 65,0 years. In the world incidence statistics of colon carcinoma in males, Karlsruhe ranks 16th (13,2 cases per 100 000 inhabitants), whereas the city ranks second for rectal carcinoma in males (18,5 cases/100 000). Prevalence patterns of gastric, colonic, and rectal carcinoma differ between individual districts of Karlsruhe. Time-related pathogenetic influence factors are discussed in extenso.", "PMID": 433369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1544", "title": "[Spontaneous and DL-penicillamine-induced renal copper excretion in liver diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "The levels of cupriuresis before and after DL-Penicillamine have been investigated in 168 cases. The mean copper excretion before Penicillamine in chronic activ liver disease, chronic persistant hepatitis, cirrhosis and in transitional cases of aggressiv chronic hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis ranged from 29 gamma to 48 gamma/24 hr.; however, in some cases the daily copper excretion exceeds 100 gamma, as well in subjects with liver disease as in normals too. After ingesting 900 mg DL-Penicillamine the mean values of cupriuresis ranged from 500 gamma to 600 gamma/24 hr. Abnormal results were found in about 15% of those subjects with liver diseases; in only two of 20 cases with hypercupruria after Penicillamine Wilson's Disease was established.", "contents": "[Spontaneous and DL-penicillamine-induced renal copper excretion in liver diseases (author's transl)]. The levels of cupriuresis before and after DL-Penicillamine have been investigated in 168 cases. The mean copper excretion before Penicillamine in chronic activ liver disease, chronic persistant hepatitis, cirrhosis and in transitional cases of aggressiv chronic hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis ranged from 29 gamma to 48 gamma/24 hr.; however, in some cases the daily copper excretion exceeds 100 gamma, as well in subjects with liver disease as in normals too. After ingesting 900 mg DL-Penicillamine the mean values of cupriuresis ranged from 500 gamma to 600 gamma/24 hr. Abnormal results were found in about 15% of those subjects with liver diseases; in only two of 20 cases with hypercupruria after Penicillamine Wilson's Disease was established.", "PMID": 433370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1545", "title": "[Gastric emptying in patients with ulcus ventriculi (author's transl)].", "content": "The half life time (T 1/2) of gastric emptying was measured in 53 patients suffering from atrophic gastritis or gastric ulceration, by use of a radiolabelled standardized test-meal. In healthy controls the T 1/2 was 58.8 +/- 9.1 min (median 59 min). In 35 gastric ulcer patients the T 1/2 of median 85 min was significantly slowed if compared to the normal value (2 p less than 0.01). After healing of the ulcer in 12 patients this value returned to normal. In 8 patients with diffusely atrophic gastritis the T 1/2 value was slowed significantly (median 123 min), if the gastritis was confined to the antrum, gastric emptying was accelerated (median 48 min).", "contents": "[Gastric emptying in patients with ulcus ventriculi (author's transl)]. The half life time (T 1/2) of gastric emptying was measured in 53 patients suffering from atrophic gastritis or gastric ulceration, by use of a radiolabelled standardized test-meal. In healthy controls the T 1/2 was 58.8 +/- 9.1 min (median 59 min). In 35 gastric ulcer patients the T 1/2 of median 85 min was significantly slowed if compared to the normal value (2 p less than 0.01). After healing of the ulcer in 12 patients this value returned to normal. In 8 patients with diffusely atrophic gastritis the T 1/2 value was slowed significantly (median 123 min), if the gastritis was confined to the antrum, gastric emptying was accelerated (median 48 min).", "PMID": 433371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1546", "title": "[Complaints after gastroscopy and their cause (author's transl)].", "content": "The various complaints after gastroscopy and the acceptability of the procedures are verified by a questionnaire in 300 consecutively examined patients with or without gastric lesions. The extent of psychic lability, neurosis and extraversion was determined by the Maudsley Personality Inventory test of Eysenck. The time necessary for the passage of the instrument (swallowing time) and the time taken by gastroscopy were registered on each patient. More than half of the patients complained of sore throat lasting more than 1 day. Less than a quarter had abdominal dyspepsia. The intensity of the sore throat was correlated with the swallowing time but not with the extent of neurosis or gastroscopy time. 98% of the patients consented to a control examination. The necessity of a gastroscope with less diameter and a non mucosal damaging top is stressed.", "contents": "[Complaints after gastroscopy and their cause (author's transl)]. The various complaints after gastroscopy and the acceptability of the procedures are verified by a questionnaire in 300 consecutively examined patients with or without gastric lesions. The extent of psychic lability, neurosis and extraversion was determined by the Maudsley Personality Inventory test of Eysenck. The time necessary for the passage of the instrument (swallowing time) and the time taken by gastroscopy were registered on each patient. More than half of the patients complained of sore throat lasting more than 1 day. Less than a quarter had abdominal dyspepsia. The intensity of the sore throat was correlated with the swallowing time but not with the extent of neurosis or gastroscopy time. 98% of the patients consented to a control examination. The necessity of a gastroscope with less diameter and a non mucosal damaging top is stressed.", "PMID": 433372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1547", "title": "[Small bowel biopsy as a cause of pseudomonas aeruginosa septicemia in a patient with intestinal lymphoma? (author's transl)].", "content": "A patient with intestinal lymphoma developed a gram-negative septicemia 48 hours following a peroral biopsy of the small intestine. The bacteriological examination of the instrument proved the same bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) which was the cause of septicemia. On the basis of our observation and of other reports it seems reasonable besides gassterilization or effective disinfection of the instruments to carry out cultural examinations of the instrument before and following endoscopic and bioptic investigations of patients with impaired resistance; it would then be possible to start an appropriate antibiotic treatment in case of a septic complication.", "contents": "[Small bowel biopsy as a cause of pseudomonas aeruginosa septicemia in a patient with intestinal lymphoma? (author's transl)]. A patient with intestinal lymphoma developed a gram-negative septicemia 48 hours following a peroral biopsy of the small intestine. The bacteriological examination of the instrument proved the same bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) which was the cause of septicemia. On the basis of our observation and of other reports it seems reasonable besides gassterilization or effective disinfection of the instruments to carry out cultural examinations of the instrument before and following endoscopic and bioptic investigations of patients with impaired resistance; it would then be possible to start an appropriate antibiotic treatment in case of a septic complication.", "PMID": 433373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1548", "title": "[Chenodeoxycholic acid therapy and colorectal carcinoma--an experimental approach (author's transl)].", "content": "With respect to the potential significance of bile acids in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer the effect of continuous oral administration of chenodeoxycholic acid--which is used for conservative therapy of radiolucent gallstones--on the rate of colonic tumors was examined. In rats treated with chenodeoxycholic acid a higher incidence of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine induced adenocarcinomas was detected. On the basis of these results it is postulated that all patients treated with chenodeoxycholic acid due to gallstones are registered systematically in order to gain definite information about its possible role as tumor promoter.", "contents": "[Chenodeoxycholic acid therapy and colorectal carcinoma--an experimental approach (author's transl)]. With respect to the potential significance of bile acids in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer the effect of continuous oral administration of chenodeoxycholic acid--which is used for conservative therapy of radiolucent gallstones--on the rate of colonic tumors was examined. In rats treated with chenodeoxycholic acid a higher incidence of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine induced adenocarcinomas was detected. On the basis of these results it is postulated that all patients treated with chenodeoxycholic acid due to gallstones are registered systematically in order to gain definite information about its possible role as tumor promoter.", "PMID": 433374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1549", "title": "[The influence of chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid on the hepatic structure of the rat (author's transl)].", "content": "Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) dissolve cholesterol gallstones in man. Since CDCA has caused liver damage in animal experiments we have tried to elucidate the question whether such alterations could occur due to UDCA therapy as well. CDCA and UDCA were fed orally in doses of 20, 90, 150, 250 and 1000 mg/kg body-weight daily to female Wistar-Rats (CDCA: 75 animals; UDCA: 75 animals). After 5, 30 and 60 days we examined the liver by means of light- and electronmicroscopy. After 30 days all animals treated with 1000 mg/kg CDCA had died, whereas there were no pathological findings in the UDCA treated group. By means of electronmicroscopy we detected in the CDCA-group already with 20 mg/kg/day microstructural alterations of the liver that increased with elevation of the dosage and duration of treatment. With UDCA therapy liver tissue showed minimal changes only with 1000 mg/kg. The difference is explained by the decreased rate of transformation of UDCA to lithocholic acid and the lack of toxicity of UDCA in the hepatocyte.", "contents": "[The influence of chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid on the hepatic structure of the rat (author's transl)]. Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) dissolve cholesterol gallstones in man. Since CDCA has caused liver damage in animal experiments we have tried to elucidate the question whether such alterations could occur due to UDCA therapy as well. CDCA and UDCA were fed orally in doses of 20, 90, 150, 250 and 1000 mg/kg body-weight daily to female Wistar-Rats (CDCA: 75 animals; UDCA: 75 animals). After 5, 30 and 60 days we examined the liver by means of light- and electronmicroscopy. After 30 days all animals treated with 1000 mg/kg CDCA had died, whereas there were no pathological findings in the UDCA treated group. By means of electronmicroscopy we detected in the CDCA-group already with 20 mg/kg/day microstructural alterations of the liver that increased with elevation of the dosage and duration of treatment. With UDCA therapy liver tissue showed minimal changes only with 1000 mg/kg. The difference is explained by the decreased rate of transformation of UDCA to lithocholic acid and the lack of toxicity of UDCA in the hepatocyte.", "PMID": 433375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1550", "title": "[Comparative radiological and morphological study of the human pancreas. III. Morphometric investigation of the major pancreatic duct (author's transl)].", "content": "A ductographical and histological study was carried out in 70 human pancreata postmortem. The diameter, the thickness and the length of the major pancreatic duct were measured. The obtained data were evaluated statistically. The autopsy revealed in 7 cases an acute or a mild chronic pancreatitis, in 20 cases a disease of the bile duct system, in 4 both an acute pancreatitis and a bile duct disease, while the other patients showed no inflammatory or neoplastic diseases of the pancreas or the bile ducts. The relative wall thickness of the duct increases with growing distance from the papilla, while the real thickness of the wall decreases. The inner and outer diameter of the duct steadily rises with aging. The relative thickness decreases with aging, but in a considerable less degree. The length of the duct growths with aging. All these relations were expressed in mathematical equations. In acute pancreatitis, in mild chronic pancreatitis and in disease of the bile duct system no statistically significant differences of the outer and inner diameter, of the length and the relatative thickness of the wall were found in comparison to normal pancreata.", "contents": "[Comparative radiological and morphological study of the human pancreas. III. Morphometric investigation of the major pancreatic duct (author's transl)]. A ductographical and histological study was carried out in 70 human pancreata postmortem. The diameter, the thickness and the length of the major pancreatic duct were measured. The obtained data were evaluated statistically. The autopsy revealed in 7 cases an acute or a mild chronic pancreatitis, in 20 cases a disease of the bile duct system, in 4 both an acute pancreatitis and a bile duct disease, while the other patients showed no inflammatory or neoplastic diseases of the pancreas or the bile ducts. The relative wall thickness of the duct increases with growing distance from the papilla, while the real thickness of the wall decreases. The inner and outer diameter of the duct steadily rises with aging. The relative thickness decreases with aging, but in a considerable less degree. The length of the duct growths with aging. All these relations were expressed in mathematical equations. In acute pancreatitis, in mild chronic pancreatitis and in disease of the bile duct system no statistically significant differences of the outer and inner diameter, of the length and the relatative thickness of the wall were found in comparison to normal pancreata.", "PMID": 433376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1551", "title": "Influence of exogenous glycosaminoglycans on growth and glycosaminoglycan synthesis of cultured human diploid fibroblasts (WI-38).", "content": "Human diploid fibroblast (WI-38) in monolayer culture were treated with exogenous glycosaminoglycans for short (up to 4 days) or long (several weeks and months) periods, and the effects on growth and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, as measured by the incorporation of 35S-sulfate and 14C-glycosamine into cell-bound and cell-released (medium) glycosaminoglycans, were determined. Short- and long-term exposure to chondroitin-4-sulfate, chondroitin-6-sulfate, dermatan sulfate or hyaluronic acid at concentrations up to 100 microgram/ml did not affect cell growth, while heparin (between 20 and 100 micrograms/ml), heparan sulfate (above 100 micrograms/ml) or hyaluronic acid (2500 micrograms/ml) exerted significant growth-inhibitory effects. While short-term or long-term influence (each at 100 micrograms/ml) of chondroitin-4-sulfate, chondroitin-6-sulfate and hyaluronic acid resulted in a slight inhibition of incorporation of both radioactive precursors into cell-bound glycosaminoglycans, heparin (between 20 and 500 micrograms/ml) or heparan sulfate (at 100 or 500 micrograms/ml) significantly stimulated 14C-glycosamine incorporation into cell-bound glycosaminoglycans, what appeared to be predominantly into the hyaluronic acid fraction. Following long-term treatment with heparin at 20, 50 or 100 micrograms/ml, incorporation rates of both 14C-glucosamine and 35S-sulfate into both cell-bound and cell-released (medium) glycosaminoglycans were elevated, suggesting a general stimulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Possible mechanisms for the action of these compounds (especially heparin) were discussed, e.g. an interaction with specific cell surface-associated sites.", "contents": "Influence of exogenous glycosaminoglycans on growth and glycosaminoglycan synthesis of cultured human diploid fibroblasts (WI-38). Human diploid fibroblast (WI-38) in monolayer culture were treated with exogenous glycosaminoglycans for short (up to 4 days) or long (several weeks and months) periods, and the effects on growth and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, as measured by the incorporation of 35S-sulfate and 14C-glycosamine into cell-bound and cell-released (medium) glycosaminoglycans, were determined. Short- and long-term exposure to chondroitin-4-sulfate, chondroitin-6-sulfate, dermatan sulfate or hyaluronic acid at concentrations up to 100 microgram/ml did not affect cell growth, while heparin (between 20 and 100 micrograms/ml), heparan sulfate (above 100 micrograms/ml) or hyaluronic acid (2500 micrograms/ml) exerted significant growth-inhibitory effects. While short-term or long-term influence (each at 100 micrograms/ml) of chondroitin-4-sulfate, chondroitin-6-sulfate and hyaluronic acid resulted in a slight inhibition of incorporation of both radioactive precursors into cell-bound glycosaminoglycans, heparin (between 20 and 500 micrograms/ml) or heparan sulfate (at 100 or 500 micrograms/ml) significantly stimulated 14C-glycosamine incorporation into cell-bound glycosaminoglycans, what appeared to be predominantly into the hyaluronic acid fraction. Following long-term treatment with heparin at 20, 50 or 100 micrograms/ml, incorporation rates of both 14C-glucosamine and 35S-sulfate into both cell-bound and cell-released (medium) glycosaminoglycans were elevated, suggesting a general stimulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Possible mechanisms for the action of these compounds (especially heparin) were discussed, e.g. an interaction with specific cell surface-associated sites.", "PMID": 433377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1552", "title": "Free-flow electrophoresis for the separation of malaria infected and uninfected mouse erythrocytes and for the isolation of free parasites (Plasmodium vinckei): a new rapid technique for the liberation of malaria parasites from their host cells.", "content": "After aggregation of erythrocytes from malaria infected mice, the parasites (Plasmodium vinckei) could be set free using gentle mechanical forces. The mixture of freed parasites, infected and non-infected erythrocytes, and membraneous material was separated by free-flow electrophoresis. The free parasites produced were very pure and infectious. Morphological and enzymatic data on the separated fractions are presented. Free-flow electrophoresis also allowed the separation of infected and uninfected erythrocytes.", "contents": "Free-flow electrophoresis for the separation of malaria infected and uninfected mouse erythrocytes and for the isolation of free parasites (Plasmodium vinckei): a new rapid technique for the liberation of malaria parasites from their host cells. After aggregation of erythrocytes from malaria infected mice, the parasites (Plasmodium vinckei) could be set free using gentle mechanical forces. The mixture of freed parasites, infected and non-infected erythrocytes, and membraneous material was separated by free-flow electrophoresis. The free parasites produced were very pure and infectious. Morphological and enzymatic data on the separated fractions are presented. Free-flow electrophoresis also allowed the separation of infected and uninfected erythrocytes.", "PMID": 433382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1553", "title": "Further studies on the compatibility between s. intercalatum from cameroun and za\u00efre and species of bulinus.", "content": "The results from the infection experiments with Schistosoma intercalatum from Cameroun and from Za\u00efre and the intermediate hosts, belonging to B. forskalii and B. globosus, could be divided into groups according to the degree of compatibility with the schistosomes. This was indicated by the total cercariae production per 100 exposed snails (TCP/100 exp. snails). B. forskalii from Kinshasa, Za\u00efre were the snails which were most compatible with S. intercalatum from Cameroun, and B. globosus populations tested were refractory. The TCP/100 exposed snails was about 300,000 for the populations of B. forskalii from Kinshasa compared with the low production for B. forskalii from Cameroun of 125,000. B. wrighti from South Arabia produced 155,000 cercariae per 100 exposed snails. B. cernicus from Mauritius could be separated into two types according to the compatibility with S. intercalatum from Cameroun, the TCP/100 exposed snails was 31,000 and 267,000, respectively. B. globosus from Kinshasa, Za\u00efre, was very compatible with S. intercalatum from Za\u00efre and the TCP/100 exposed snails was very high, and 300,000. An albino strain of B. globosus from Rhodesia was the most compatible snail having a TCP/100 exposed snails of 2.4 million cercariae. Other strains of B. globosus from Cameroun and Togo were refractory and less susceptible. It was also possible to infect B. africanus and the two tested populations from Kenya and Tanzania, producing 15,000 and 179,000 cercariae per 100 exposed snails, respectively.", "contents": "Further studies on the compatibility between s. intercalatum from cameroun and za\u00efre and species of bulinus. The results from the infection experiments with Schistosoma intercalatum from Cameroun and from Za\u00efre and the intermediate hosts, belonging to B. forskalii and B. globosus, could be divided into groups according to the degree of compatibility with the schistosomes. This was indicated by the total cercariae production per 100 exposed snails (TCP/100 exp. snails). B. forskalii from Kinshasa, Za\u00efre were the snails which were most compatible with S. intercalatum from Cameroun, and B. globosus populations tested were refractory. The TCP/100 exposed snails was about 300,000 for the populations of B. forskalii from Kinshasa compared with the low production for B. forskalii from Cameroun of 125,000. B. wrighti from South Arabia produced 155,000 cercariae per 100 exposed snails. B. cernicus from Mauritius could be separated into two types according to the compatibility with S. intercalatum from Cameroun, the TCP/100 exposed snails was 31,000 and 267,000, respectively. B. globosus from Kinshasa, Za\u00efre, was very compatible with S. intercalatum from Za\u00efre and the TCP/100 exposed snails was very high, and 300,000. An albino strain of B. globosus from Rhodesia was the most compatible snail having a TCP/100 exposed snails of 2.4 million cercariae. Other strains of B. globosus from Cameroun and Togo were refractory and less susceptible. It was also possible to infect B. africanus and the two tested populations from Kenya and Tanzania, producing 15,000 and 179,000 cercariae per 100 exposed snails, respectively.", "PMID": 433383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1554", "title": "Schistosoma mansoni: activity responses in vitro to praziquantel.", "content": "The effects of praziquantel, a novel antischistosomal compound, on the activity of adult Schistosoma mansoni (Liverpool strain) in vitro were investigated. Worm activity was modified at all concentrations of praziquantel. High concentrations (above 0.5 microgram/ml) produced rapid paralysis, whilst low concentrations of praziquantel stimulated worm activity. It is concluded that such activity modification could lead to worm displacement in vivo.", "contents": "Schistosoma mansoni: activity responses in vitro to praziquantel. The effects of praziquantel, a novel antischistosomal compound, on the activity of adult Schistosoma mansoni (Liverpool strain) in vitro were investigated. Worm activity was modified at all concentrations of praziquantel. High concentrations (above 0.5 microgram/ml) produced rapid paralysis, whilst low concentrations of praziquantel stimulated worm activity. It is concluded that such activity modification could lead to worm displacement in vivo.", "PMID": 433384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1555", "title": "[Age-dependent gene induction in the quail oviduct. VIII. A survey of experimental data].", "content": "1974 we introduced the biological model of the progesterone-caused avidin biosynthesis in the quail oviduct for studies in the field of molecular gerontology. Using this model it is possible to determine quantitatively the biochemical events of the age-dependent reduction of the progesterone-caused gene-induction. In a series of experiments it was found that the main parameters of the age dependent reduction might be found on the level of transcription and post-transcription. Therefore the enzymic processes involved in the transcription of genetic information from the DNA to the heterogenous nuclear RNA as well as those processing this RNA species to mRNA are studied. During the progress in this field we could isolate and purify some enzymes (poly[A] nucleases) which are involved in the age-dependent \"maturation\" of mRNA. On the basis of the interrelation between the poly(A)-binding proteins and the specific poly(A) nucleases, an explanation of the age-dependent reduction of the progesteron-caused mRNA synthesis seems to be possible.", "contents": "[Age-dependent gene induction in the quail oviduct. VIII. A survey of experimental data]. 1974 we introduced the biological model of the progesterone-caused avidin biosynthesis in the quail oviduct for studies in the field of molecular gerontology. Using this model it is possible to determine quantitatively the biochemical events of the age-dependent reduction of the progesterone-caused gene-induction. In a series of experiments it was found that the main parameters of the age dependent reduction might be found on the level of transcription and post-transcription. Therefore the enzymic processes involved in the transcription of genetic information from the DNA to the heterogenous nuclear RNA as well as those processing this RNA species to mRNA are studied. During the progress in this field we could isolate and purify some enzymes (poly[A] nucleases) which are involved in the age-dependent \"maturation\" of mRNA. On the basis of the interrelation between the poly(A)-binding proteins and the specific poly(A) nucleases, an explanation of the age-dependent reduction of the progesteron-caused mRNA synthesis seems to be possible.", "PMID": 433378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1556", "title": "Attempts to immunise rats and mice against infection with fasciola hepatica using antigens prepared from taenia hydatigena.", "content": "Attempts were made to immunise rats and mice against infection with F. hepatica by oral dosing with T. hydatigena eggs, or by vaccination with various T. hydatigena antigen preparations. These antigens included extracts from T. hydatigena cysticerci and cyst fluid, and antigens collected during short-term (48 h) and long-term (14 days) in vitro cultivation of larvae. Immunity was assessed by the numbers of F. hepatica recovered from the challenge infection in rats, and the mortality rates of infected mice. None of the immunisation regimes with T. hydatigena antigens induced consistent, significant immunity. This was in contrast to the high level of immunity shown by rats dosed orally with F. hepatica metacercariae four weeks prior to challenge infection.", "contents": "Attempts to immunise rats and mice against infection with fasciola hepatica using antigens prepared from taenia hydatigena. Attempts were made to immunise rats and mice against infection with F. hepatica by oral dosing with T. hydatigena eggs, or by vaccination with various T. hydatigena antigen preparations. These antigens included extracts from T. hydatigena cysticerci and cyst fluid, and antigens collected during short-term (48 h) and long-term (14 days) in vitro cultivation of larvae. Immunity was assessed by the numbers of F. hepatica recovered from the challenge infection in rats, and the mortality rates of infected mice. None of the immunisation regimes with T. hydatigena antigens induced consistent, significant immunity. This was in contrast to the high level of immunity shown by rats dosed orally with F. hepatica metacercariae four weeks prior to challenge infection.", "PMID": 433385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1557", "title": "[Diaplacental transmission of microfilaria of the species, Brugia pahangi, in the cat].", "content": "Eight kittens born of two Brugia pahangi infected cats have been studied for transplacental passed microfilariae. In the peripheral blood microfilariae could not be demonstrated at any time. However, in the lung of a young cat killed two days post partum ca. 30 microfilariae have been found (microfilaremia of the mother 90 mf/20 mm3). Histological studies suggested two possibilities of transplacental passage--by blood and by secretion of the uterus glands.", "contents": "[Diaplacental transmission of microfilaria of the species, Brugia pahangi, in the cat]. Eight kittens born of two Brugia pahangi infected cats have been studied for transplacental passed microfilariae. In the peripheral blood microfilariae could not be demonstrated at any time. However, in the lung of a young cat killed two days post partum ca. 30 microfilariae have been found (microfilaremia of the mother 90 mf/20 mm3). Histological studies suggested two possibilities of transplacental passage--by blood and by secretion of the uterus glands.", "PMID": 433386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1558", "title": "[Age-dependent changes in transverse sections of muscle fibres from the exterior eye muscles in man].", "content": "Muscle fibers of extraocular muscles (M. rectus internus, M. rectus externus and M. rectus inferior) from 27 patients ranging in age from birth to 83 years were measured planimetrically in cross sections between the origin-, insertion-, and middle-thirds of the muscle length. In all the muscles the middle third of the muscle possessed fibers with an average thickness greater than in the third of the muscle at either end (origin or insertion). This observation was, however, dependent on the age of the patients. This difference in muscle fiber thickness was most constant in patients in the age groups 20 to 30 and 40 to 50 years. On patients 60 years and older, the muscle fibers in all portions of the muscle were thicker; however, the M. rectus externus and especially the M. rectus internus also possessed a larger number of thinner fibers. The percent of thin fibers in the M. rectus internus was even greater than that found in one year-old patients. These observations are most likely explained by a decrease in the accomodation capacity in older patients and a correlative reduced convergence activity of the muscle fibers that are only active during convergence, resulting in decreased demand on the muscle fibers and their consequent atrophy.", "contents": "[Age-dependent changes in transverse sections of muscle fibres from the exterior eye muscles in man]. Muscle fibers of extraocular muscles (M. rectus internus, M. rectus externus and M. rectus inferior) from 27 patients ranging in age from birth to 83 years were measured planimetrically in cross sections between the origin-, insertion-, and middle-thirds of the muscle length. In all the muscles the middle third of the muscle possessed fibers with an average thickness greater than in the third of the muscle at either end (origin or insertion). This observation was, however, dependent on the age of the patients. This difference in muscle fiber thickness was most constant in patients in the age groups 20 to 30 and 40 to 50 years. On patients 60 years and older, the muscle fibers in all portions of the muscle were thicker; however, the M. rectus externus and especially the M. rectus internus also possessed a larger number of thinner fibers. The percent of thin fibers in the M. rectus internus was even greater than that found in one year-old patients. These observations are most likely explained by a decrease in the accomodation capacity in older patients and a correlative reduced convergence activity of the muscle fibers that are only active during convergence, resulting in decreased demand on the muscle fibers and their consequent atrophy.", "PMID": 433381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1559", "title": "[Similarity in the behavior of insects and vertebrates in solving difficult visual tasks].", "content": "Field experiments on elaboration of conditioned differentiation reflex in melliferous bees led the authors to the conclusion on convergent similarity of some characteristics of insects' and vertebrates' behaviour while solving difficult visual tasks. The similarity is expressed in phenomena of 1. \"unlearning\", or transition to choices at random, during repetitive difficult differentiations; 2. return of behavior from the acquired program to the innate one--the authors named this phenomenon \"reversion of behaviour control\". Both the phenomena protect the CNS from overstrain when the animals encounter a difficult sensory task.", "contents": "[Similarity in the behavior of insects and vertebrates in solving difficult visual tasks]. Field experiments on elaboration of conditioned differentiation reflex in melliferous bees led the authors to the conclusion on convergent similarity of some characteristics of insects' and vertebrates' behaviour while solving difficult visual tasks. The similarity is expressed in phenomena of 1. \"unlearning\", or transition to choices at random, during repetitive difficult differentiations; 2. return of behavior from the acquired program to the innate one--the authors named this phenomenon \"reversion of behaviour control\". Both the phenomena protect the CNS from overstrain when the animals encounter a difficult sensory task.", "PMID": 433430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1560", "title": "[Rhythmic activity in a neuronally isolated strip of rabbit cortex].", "content": "To test the ability of the neocortex to generate rhythmic potential oscillations, the composition of summary electrical activity of neuronally isolated necortex strip in the background and following rhythmic electrical stimulation of the strip was studied by means of computer in chronic experiments on rabbits. In the strip background activity oscillations appear in delta-, theta- and alpha-ranges which in some cases represent regular-rhythmic processes. Along with endogene activity rythmic theta-activity may be recorded which penetrates passively from the hippocampus (when it generates a regular high-amplitude theta-rhythm). It was found that the strip activity followed the stimulation rhythm and reproduced it during several seconds after the end of the stimulation. Driving was easier when the stimulation frequency was of 5 -- 7 c/s. Besides driving response, rhythm rearrangement often occured following stimulation manifested in appearance of rhythmic oscillations within theta-range independently on the frequency of the preceding stimulation.", "contents": "[Rhythmic activity in a neuronally isolated strip of rabbit cortex]. To test the ability of the neocortex to generate rhythmic potential oscillations, the composition of summary electrical activity of neuronally isolated necortex strip in the background and following rhythmic electrical stimulation of the strip was studied by means of computer in chronic experiments on rabbits. In the strip background activity oscillations appear in delta-, theta- and alpha-ranges which in some cases represent regular-rhythmic processes. Along with endogene activity rythmic theta-activity may be recorded which penetrates passively from the hippocampus (when it generates a regular high-amplitude theta-rhythm). It was found that the strip activity followed the stimulation rhythm and reproduced it during several seconds after the end of the stimulation. Driving was easier when the stimulation frequency was of 5 -- 7 c/s. Besides driving response, rhythm rearrangement often occured following stimulation manifested in appearance of rhythmic oscillations within theta-range independently on the frequency of the preceding stimulation.", "PMID": 433434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1561", "title": "[Role of several subcortical nuclei in the conduction of visual afferentation during early ontogeny].", "content": "Characteristics of EPs in different areas of the visual cortex elicited by stimulation of subcortical nuclei (LGB, posterior thalamic nuclei and superior colliculi) were studied in cat's fetuses during the last 10 days of their antenatal development. It was shown that both in the striate and in accessory visual areas the EPs are negative oscillations with a small initial positivity. Latencies of the EPs to stimulation of the thalamic nuclei make from 18 to 25 msec in different cortical areas and those to the stimulation of the superior colliculi--from 40 to 45 msec. Laminar analysis of EPs elicited in the occipital cortical area by the stimulation of LGB revealed two foci of depolarization; the one with shorter EP latency is localized in the depth of the cortex. The role of the extrageniculate ascending system and of different groups of fibers of the geniculocortical system in the formation of the main EP components in the visual cortex in early ontogenesis is discussed.", "contents": "[Role of several subcortical nuclei in the conduction of visual afferentation during early ontogeny]. Characteristics of EPs in different areas of the visual cortex elicited by stimulation of subcortical nuclei (LGB, posterior thalamic nuclei and superior colliculi) were studied in cat's fetuses during the last 10 days of their antenatal development. It was shown that both in the striate and in accessory visual areas the EPs are negative oscillations with a small initial positivity. Latencies of the EPs to stimulation of the thalamic nuclei make from 18 to 25 msec in different cortical areas and those to the stimulation of the superior colliculi--from 40 to 45 msec. Laminar analysis of EPs elicited in the occipital cortical area by the stimulation of LGB revealed two foci of depolarization; the one with shorter EP latency is localized in the depth of the cortex. The role of the extrageniculate ascending system and of different groups of fibers of the geniculocortical system in the formation of the main EP components in the visual cortex in early ontogenesis is discussed.", "PMID": 433432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1562", "title": "[Analysis of the stability of rabbit visual cortex neuron spike responses to light flashes].", "content": "The stability of neuronal responses in the rabbit visual cortex to diffuse photic flashes presented in series with sufficiently long time intervals between them was studied in acute experiments. Three types of neuronal responses with different degree of stability were singled out. The stability was judged by the mean coefficient of correlation between post-stimulus histograms of spike activity. Negative correlations were found between the mean correlation coefficient and mean square deviations of latencies of primary and secondary activation and the pause in impulse activity in neuronal responses to a photic flash. Positive correlations between primary activation latencies and mean square deviations of other response parameters suggest a greater stability of responses with a short latency.", "contents": "[Analysis of the stability of rabbit visual cortex neuron spike responses to light flashes]. The stability of neuronal responses in the rabbit visual cortex to diffuse photic flashes presented in series with sufficiently long time intervals between them was studied in acute experiments. Three types of neuronal responses with different degree of stability were singled out. The stability was judged by the mean coefficient of correlation between post-stimulus histograms of spike activity. Negative correlations were found between the mean correlation coefficient and mean square deviations of latencies of primary and secondary activation and the pause in impulse activity in neuronal responses to a photic flash. Positive correlations between primary activation latencies and mean square deviations of other response parameters suggest a greater stability of responses with a short latency.", "PMID": 433436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1563", "title": "[Binocular interaction in the visual cortex during changes in the intensity of monocular stimuli in different directions].", "content": "The characteristics of binocular interaction in the visual cortex were studied in rats and cats in conditions of dichotic presentation of monocular stimuli changing in intensity in opposite directions. Different combinations of stimuli intensities produced in intact animals a predominance of facilitation of binocular EPs. Depression of EPs was seen in rats subjected to weak contralateral and strong ipsilateral stimuli. After callosotomy EP facilitation in cats was less pronounced. In rats both effects of binocular interaction were enhanced and were recorded in conditions of photostimulation opposite to preoperational ones. It was found that the differences in the effects of binocular interaction before and after callosotomy resulted from changes in occlusional interrelations and elimination of transcallosal influences. An assumption is made that the effects of binocular interaction are largely responsible for specific characteristics of the formation of interhemispheric asymmetry in binocular vision.", "contents": "[Binocular interaction in the visual cortex during changes in the intensity of monocular stimuli in different directions]. The characteristics of binocular interaction in the visual cortex were studied in rats and cats in conditions of dichotic presentation of monocular stimuli changing in intensity in opposite directions. Different combinations of stimuli intensities produced in intact animals a predominance of facilitation of binocular EPs. Depression of EPs was seen in rats subjected to weak contralateral and strong ipsilateral stimuli. After callosotomy EP facilitation in cats was less pronounced. In rats both effects of binocular interaction were enhanced and were recorded in conditions of photostimulation opposite to preoperational ones. It was found that the differences in the effects of binocular interaction before and after callosotomy resulted from changes in occlusional interrelations and elimination of transcallosal influences. An assumption is made that the effects of binocular interaction are largely responsible for specific characteristics of the formation of interhemispheric asymmetry in binocular vision.", "PMID": 433431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1564", "title": "[Interaction of the somatosensory and auditory systems in awake cats at the level of the cortical projection zones].", "content": "A comparative study of somato-acoustic interactions has been brought out by EP method in the auditory area A1 several projection areas of S1 and in S2 of non-immobilized cats with chronically implanted electrodes. Single cutaneous stimulation of the contralateral fore-leg with an intensity equal to 1.5 to 3 thresholds of EP appearance elicits in S1 and A1 three types of EPs differing in latencies and number of components. Preliminary rhythmic somatic stimulation has a predominantly facilitating effect on EPs appearing in response to tonal stimuli in the areas A1, S2, S1. Optimal conditions for facilitatory influences involve intervals of 250 to 500 msec, frequencies of somatic stimulation of 3 to 10 c/s and its intensity which does not elicit animal's motor reaction.", "contents": "[Interaction of the somatosensory and auditory systems in awake cats at the level of the cortical projection zones]. A comparative study of somato-acoustic interactions has been brought out by EP method in the auditory area A1 several projection areas of S1 and in S2 of non-immobilized cats with chronically implanted electrodes. Single cutaneous stimulation of the contralateral fore-leg with an intensity equal to 1.5 to 3 thresholds of EP appearance elicits in S1 and A1 three types of EPs differing in latencies and number of components. Preliminary rhythmic somatic stimulation has a predominantly facilitating effect on EPs appearing in response to tonal stimuli in the areas A1, S2, S1. Optimal conditions for facilitatory influences involve intervals of 250 to 500 msec, frequencies of somatic stimulation of 3 to 10 c/s and its intensity which does not elicit animal's motor reaction.", "PMID": 433433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1565", "title": "[Effect of interrupting hippocampal connections on the neuronal activity of several midbrain nuclei].", "content": "Experiments were performed on unanaesthetized rabbits with intact brain and with septo-hippocampal disconnection depriving midbrain structures of descending hippocampal influences. General characteristics of neuronal reactions in midbrain raphe (MR) and ventral tegmental nucleus (VT) did not change following deafferentation. The level of reactivity increased in VT and decreased in MR. The mean latencies of on-responses in MR became longer (15,5 msec for auditory stimuli versus 10,5 msec in intact brain); in VT they became shorter (14,5 msec versus 17 msec). Habituation of reactions, normally present in about half of neurones, disappeared. Neurones with incremental responses gradually increasing in strength and duration were observed. Complex functional relations between the hippocampus and unspecific midbrain structures are discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of interrupting hippocampal connections on the neuronal activity of several midbrain nuclei]. Experiments were performed on unanaesthetized rabbits with intact brain and with septo-hippocampal disconnection depriving midbrain structures of descending hippocampal influences. General characteristics of neuronal reactions in midbrain raphe (MR) and ventral tegmental nucleus (VT) did not change following deafferentation. The level of reactivity increased in VT and decreased in MR. The mean latencies of on-responses in MR became longer (15,5 msec for auditory stimuli versus 10,5 msec in intact brain); in VT they became shorter (14,5 msec versus 17 msec). Habituation of reactions, normally present in about half of neurones, disappeared. Neurones with incremental responses gradually increasing in strength and duration were observed. Complex functional relations between the hippocampus and unspecific midbrain structures are discussed.", "PMID": 433437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1566", "title": "[Responses of hippocampal neurons during prolonged posttetanic potentiation].", "content": "Unit responses to stimulation of septo-fimbrial area or fascia dentata were recorded in hippocampus of unanaesthetized rabbits with extra- and intracellular microelectrodes. Neuronal discharge index was found to increase or latency to decrease in 10 out of 28 neurones recorded as long as 3 min to 2.5 hours after tetanization (20/sec, 10 sec). Posttetanic increase in amplitude of excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP) was fo-nd in 8 of 24 neurones recorded intra- and quasi-intracellularly. EPSP latencies were as short as 2 msec in two of these neurones suggesting the monosynaptic origin of the EPSPs. Decrease in excitability was found shortly after tetanization in two neurones tested with intracellular current injections. A tendency to long-lasting posttetanic hyperpolarizing shifts was noted. Thus a long-lasting post-tetanic potentiation (PTP) was revealed at the level of hippocampal single neurone responses. Intracellular analysis suggests an increase in effectiveness of excitatory synapses as a main mechanism of the PTP. No significant adequate changes at the postsynaptic level were found to explain the long-lasting hippocampal PTP.", "contents": "[Responses of hippocampal neurons during prolonged posttetanic potentiation]. Unit responses to stimulation of septo-fimbrial area or fascia dentata were recorded in hippocampus of unanaesthetized rabbits with extra- and intracellular microelectrodes. Neuronal discharge index was found to increase or latency to decrease in 10 out of 28 neurones recorded as long as 3 min to 2.5 hours after tetanization (20/sec, 10 sec). Posttetanic increase in amplitude of excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP) was fo-nd in 8 of 24 neurones recorded intra- and quasi-intracellularly. EPSP latencies were as short as 2 msec in two of these neurones suggesting the monosynaptic origin of the EPSPs. Decrease in excitability was found shortly after tetanization in two neurones tested with intracellular current injections. A tendency to long-lasting posttetanic hyperpolarizing shifts was noted. Thus a long-lasting post-tetanic potentiation (PTP) was revealed at the level of hippocampal single neurone responses. Intracellular analysis suggests an increase in effectiveness of excitatory synapses as a main mechanism of the PTP. No significant adequate changes at the postsynaptic level were found to explain the long-lasting hippocampal PTP.", "PMID": 433435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1567", "title": "[Effect of mental work on the efficiency and reliability of voluntary motor activity].", "content": "By means of reflexometry 200 students were divided into three groups -- with high, medium and low work efficiency (WE) and mobility of cortical processes (MCP) and into three initial variations within each group. After studies WE and MCP change in the direction opposite to the initial in extreme variations and remain at the initial level in the mean variation. Direct correlation between WE and MCP and work reliability (WR) is found which is independent of the degree of their pronouncement. MCP is the decisive factorial parameter of WE, and WR--a significant one. In its turn MCP is in an inverse significant correlation with WR determined by the intensity of the internal inhibition. The latency and duration of motor reflexes are in weak correlation with MCP and WE.", "contents": "[Effect of mental work on the efficiency and reliability of voluntary motor activity]. By means of reflexometry 200 students were divided into three groups -- with high, medium and low work efficiency (WE) and mobility of cortical processes (MCP) and into three initial variations within each group. After studies WE and MCP change in the direction opposite to the initial in extreme variations and remain at the initial level in the mean variation. Direct correlation between WE and MCP and work reliability (WR) is found which is independent of the degree of their pronouncement. MCP is the decisive factorial parameter of WE, and WR--a significant one. In its turn MCP is in an inverse significant correlation with WR determined by the intensity of the internal inhibition. The latency and duration of motor reflexes are in weak correlation with MCP and WE.", "PMID": 433449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1568", "title": "[Cortico-subcortical systems of conditioned reflex activity].", "content": "Experimental data are presented on dynamic rearrangment of corticofugal influences on subcortical structures during conditioning and conditioned performance, as well as data on the transition of diffusive influences, to selective ones. The mechanisms of plastic rearrangment of subcortical influences in the course of consolidation of the conditioned reflex are discussed on the basis of cortical-reticular and cortical-striate interactions. The significance of subcortical interactions in the integrative brain activity and in the organization of behaviour is discussed. Facts are presented on synchronization of several rhythms in rhythmical activity in the strio-thalamo-cortical system in the process of achievement of conditioned reflexes.", "contents": "[Cortico-subcortical systems of conditioned reflex activity]. Experimental data are presented on dynamic rearrangment of corticofugal influences on subcortical structures during conditioning and conditioned performance, as well as data on the transition of diffusive influences, to selective ones. The mechanisms of plastic rearrangment of subcortical influences in the course of consolidation of the conditioned reflex are discussed on the basis of cortical-reticular and cortical-striate interactions. The significance of subcortical interactions in the integrative brain activity and in the organization of behaviour is discussed. Facts are presented on synchronization of several rhythms in rhythmical activity in the strio-thalamo-cortical system in the process of achievement of conditioned reflexes.", "PMID": 433448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1569", "title": "[Autonomic-somatic components of motor responses to direct and verbal stimuli in children].", "content": "Negative induction influences of one (prevailing) signal system on another (functionally weaker) were studied on the model of effector vegetative-somatic components of motor conditioned reflexes to direct (sound) and verbal (\"a whistle is blowing\") stimuli in the children of different age (4-5 and 6-7 years) after the activation of the first or second signal systems. It was found, that one of the informative cues of intersystem negative induction is the impairment of functional interconnections in the complex of vegetative components, providing for the adaptive activity of the organism. Negative induction influences of the first signal system on the second were found in younger children (4-5 years old) and that of the second signal system on the first one -- in the senior group (6-7 years).", "contents": "[Autonomic-somatic components of motor responses to direct and verbal stimuli in children]. Negative induction influences of one (prevailing) signal system on another (functionally weaker) were studied on the model of effector vegetative-somatic components of motor conditioned reflexes to direct (sound) and verbal (\"a whistle is blowing\") stimuli in the children of different age (4-5 and 6-7 years) after the activation of the first or second signal systems. It was found, that one of the informative cues of intersystem negative induction is the impairment of functional interconnections in the complex of vegetative components, providing for the adaptive activity of the organism. Negative induction influences of the first signal system on the second were found in younger children (4-5 years old) and that of the second signal system on the first one -- in the senior group (6-7 years).", "PMID": 433450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1570", "title": "[Role of the hippocampus in conditioned reflex activity].", "content": "The role of the hippocampus in animals' conditioned activity was studied in experiments on rats and cats with ablated hippocampus. It was shown that in rats the ablation leads to a statistically significant slowing down in learning of the avoidance reaction. The effect becomes stronger in stress situation. The process of learning and optimization of choice reaction in the maze with alimentary reinforcement if sharply impaired in rats with bilateral ablation of hippocampus. The bilateral ablation of the hippocampus in cats in experiments with choice of the side of the alimentary reinforcement prolonged the latencies and sharply increased the number of erroneous reactions. The obtained data are analyzed in terms of fronto-pallido-hippocampal system, which selects, compares and integrates sensory information at the stage of the afferent synthesis.", "contents": "[Role of the hippocampus in conditioned reflex activity]. The role of the hippocampus in animals' conditioned activity was studied in experiments on rats and cats with ablated hippocampus. It was shown that in rats the ablation leads to a statistically significant slowing down in learning of the avoidance reaction. The effect becomes stronger in stress situation. The process of learning and optimization of choice reaction in the maze with alimentary reinforcement if sharply impaired in rats with bilateral ablation of hippocampus. The bilateral ablation of the hippocampus in cats in experiments with choice of the side of the alimentary reinforcement prolonged the latencies and sharply increased the number of erroneous reactions. The obtained data are analyzed in terms of fronto-pallido-hippocampal system, which selects, compares and integrates sensory information at the stage of the afferent synthesis.", "PMID": 433451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1571", "title": "[Textile fibres under the prepuce--criminalistic proof for a sexual assault (author's transl)].", "content": "1. One day after a sexual assault the male suspect was investigated by a physician who found yellow textile fibres on his penis. 2. The police secured yellow fibres from the bed-cover, the socks and the panties of the victim. 3. At the laboratory the four kinds of fibres were analyzed. The fibres from the bed and the penis gave identical results by six different methods.", "contents": "[Textile fibres under the prepuce--criminalistic proof for a sexual assault (author's transl)]. 1. One day after a sexual assault the male suspect was investigated by a physician who found yellow textile fibres on his penis. 2. The police secured yellow fibres from the bed-cover, the socks and the panties of the victim. 3. At the laboratory the four kinds of fibres were analyzed. The fibres from the bed and the penis gave identical results by six different methods.", "PMID": 433457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1572", "title": "[Age and features of different properties of the higher nervous activity type of dogs].", "content": "Age changes in typological properties of the nervous system were studied with alimentary and defensive reinforcements in 55 dogs: from one to two months old, three to four and twelve months old. Of these, 26 were annually examined up to the age of two to four years. The degree of similarity of each typological property, with both kinds of reinforcement, was determined in one and the same animal. The presence or absence of partiality was estimated for each typological property of the nervous system. In all the one to four months old puppies the excitatory process was estimated by both methods as strong or medium; without partiality. By the age of one to two years the partiality increases due to enhanced excitation in the defensive system. Partiality of the nervous processes equilibration is observed already in one to four months old puppies, though decreasing with age. Partiality of nervous processes mobility becomes more pronounced with age.", "contents": "[Age and features of different properties of the higher nervous activity type of dogs]. Age changes in typological properties of the nervous system were studied with alimentary and defensive reinforcements in 55 dogs: from one to two months old, three to four and twelve months old. Of these, 26 were annually examined up to the age of two to four years. The degree of similarity of each typological property, with both kinds of reinforcement, was determined in one and the same animal. The presence or absence of partiality was estimated for each typological property of the nervous system. In all the one to four months old puppies the excitatory process was estimated by both methods as strong or medium; without partiality. By the age of one to two years the partiality increases due to enhanced excitation in the defensive system. Partiality of the nervous processes equilibration is observed already in one to four months old puppies, though decreasing with age. Partiality of nervous processes mobility becomes more pronounced with age.", "PMID": 433452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1573", "title": "[Apparently contradictory homozygosity of gc- and esd-markers in three generations (author's transl)].", "content": "In a paternity case we found contradictory blood group antigens in the serum- and enzyme-polymorphisms Gc and EsD of the child, her mother and grandparents. A possible accidental exchange of the child could be excluded by biostatistical calculations of the probabilities of motherhood, fatherhood and parenthood, and the descent from the parents was proven in both generations. The serological findings may be explained by the concurrent existence of silent genes or of genes that cannot be determined as yet. The genetic information Gc degrees descended from the grandfather and that for EsD degrees from the grandmother. Both were transmitted from the mother to the child. Thus, the case could be cleared by statistical considerations only.", "contents": "[Apparently contradictory homozygosity of gc- and esd-markers in three generations (author's transl)]. In a paternity case we found contradictory blood group antigens in the serum- and enzyme-polymorphisms Gc and EsD of the child, her mother and grandparents. A possible accidental exchange of the child could be excluded by biostatistical calculations of the probabilities of motherhood, fatherhood and parenthood, and the descent from the parents was proven in both generations. The serological findings may be explained by the concurrent existence of silent genes or of genes that cannot be determined as yet. The genetic information Gc degrees descended from the grandfather and that for EsD degrees from the grandmother. Both were transmitted from the mother to the child. Thus, the case could be cleared by statistical considerations only.", "PMID": 433458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1574", "title": "[Inhibition of the behavioral responses of cats after discontinuing electric stimulation of the caudate nucleus].", "content": "A prolonged suppression of behavior occurs in free-moving cats after disruption of low-frequency stimulation of the caudate nucleus head. Its outward manifestations and EEG-pattern look like those of natural sleep. However, unlike sleep, during caudate suppression motor functions are more affected, the activation response to presented test-stimuli is shorter, and the emotionality of animals is weaker. The suppression is most pronounced following the stimulation of rostro-medio-dorsal parts of the nucleus head. In small doses the neuroleptic haloperidol enhances, and the psychostimulant d,l-amphetamine decrease the caudate effect. It is suggested that the trace response triggered by the stimulation of the caudate nucleus is closer to behavioral suppression than to sleep and that it depends on the activity of the dopaminergic mechanisms.", "contents": "[Inhibition of the behavioral responses of cats after discontinuing electric stimulation of the caudate nucleus]. A prolonged suppression of behavior occurs in free-moving cats after disruption of low-frequency stimulation of the caudate nucleus head. Its outward manifestations and EEG-pattern look like those of natural sleep. However, unlike sleep, during caudate suppression motor functions are more affected, the activation response to presented test-stimuli is shorter, and the emotionality of animals is weaker. The suppression is most pronounced following the stimulation of rostro-medio-dorsal parts of the nucleus head. In small doses the neuroleptic haloperidol enhances, and the psychostimulant d,l-amphetamine decrease the caudate effect. It is suggested that the trace response triggered by the stimulation of the caudate nucleus is closer to behavioral suppression than to sleep and that it depends on the activity of the dopaminergic mechanisms.", "PMID": 433453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1575", "title": "The significance of drug analysis of sweat in respect to rapid screening for drug abuse.", "content": "Morphine and methamphetamine, which are excreted in the sweat, are detected by the use of routine serological and physicochemical techniques for urinary examinations. Screening for drug abuse can be done with the same accuracy of that of urine. Rapid excretion of the drug via kidney (within one day) is followed by a slow but steady excretion of the sweat gland. Methamphetamine given orally in a dose of 10 mg is excreted in the sweat at a constant rate (1.4 microgram/ml). No significant difference of the amount excreted by both systems is found. Alveolar lining seems to prevent the elimination of the volatile methamphetamine via respiration. Not only narcotics and stimulants, but also many alkaloids and barbituarates are excreted in the sweat and detected quantitatively by the same principles. The toxicological analysis of the sweat promises a new scope of forensic investigation.", "contents": "The significance of drug analysis of sweat in respect to rapid screening for drug abuse. Morphine and methamphetamine, which are excreted in the sweat, are detected by the use of routine serological and physicochemical techniques for urinary examinations. Screening for drug abuse can be done with the same accuracy of that of urine. Rapid excretion of the drug via kidney (within one day) is followed by a slow but steady excretion of the sweat gland. Methamphetamine given orally in a dose of 10 mg is excreted in the sweat at a constant rate (1.4 microgram/ml). No significant difference of the amount excreted by both systems is found. Alveolar lining seems to prevent the elimination of the volatile methamphetamine via respiration. Not only narcotics and stimulants, but also many alkaloids and barbituarates are excreted in the sweat and detected quantitatively by the same principles. The toxicological analysis of the sweat promises a new scope of forensic investigation.", "PMID": 433459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1576", "title": "[Relationship between the ability to extrapolate and the level of cerebral excitability].", "content": "In the experiments with self-stimulation of limbic brain structures on the rats of KM line an improvement in solving of extrapolation problems was observed. Self-stimulation of the limbic pathways is more effective than that of nuclear structures. It seems to be due to a more powerful afferentation caused by stimulation of the pathways that excites practically the whole visceral brain and the larger part of the neocortex. Increased excitability level of the central nervous system is an important condition for elementary reasoning activity; one of the criteria of such activity is the ability to extrapolate the direction of the movement of a meaningful stimulus.", "contents": "[Relationship between the ability to extrapolate and the level of cerebral excitability]. In the experiments with self-stimulation of limbic brain structures on the rats of KM line an improvement in solving of extrapolation problems was observed. Self-stimulation of the limbic pathways is more effective than that of nuclear structures. It seems to be due to a more powerful afferentation caused by stimulation of the pathways that excites practically the whole visceral brain and the larger part of the neocortex. Increased excitability level of the central nervous system is an important condition for elementary reasoning activity; one of the criteria of such activity is the ability to extrapolate the direction of the movement of a meaningful stimulus.", "PMID": 433454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1577", "title": "[Histo-morphological findings at the chiasma opticum in cases of craniocerebral trauma (author's transl)].", "content": "36 cases with pituitary haemorrhages were found histologically in 52 cases of lethal craniocerebral trauma. Simultaneously we found primary and secondary traumatic changes of chiasma opticum in 10 cases. The genesis and significance of the results are discussed.", "contents": "[Histo-morphological findings at the chiasma opticum in cases of craniocerebral trauma (author's transl)]. 36 cases with pituitary haemorrhages were found histologically in 52 cases of lethal craniocerebral trauma. Simultaneously we found primary and secondary traumatic changes of chiasma opticum in 10 cases. The genesis and significance of the results are discussed.", "PMID": 433460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1578", "title": "[Impairment of the formation of conditioned avoidance reactions following destruction of the ventral amygdalofugal pathway].", "content": "Formation of conditioned \"passive\" avoidance reaction was studied in rats with one-time pain reinforcement after electrolitic destruction of mesencephalitic part of the central gray substance (CGS). The destruction of CGS ventral nuclei at the level of the midbrain rostral part led to a decrease in emotional reaction of \"fear\" and to disturbance of avoidance formation. The participation of midbrain limbic structures in learning and memory is discussed.", "contents": "[Impairment of the formation of conditioned avoidance reactions following destruction of the ventral amygdalofugal pathway]. Formation of conditioned \"passive\" avoidance reaction was studied in rats with one-time pain reinforcement after electrolitic destruction of mesencephalitic part of the central gray substance (CGS). The destruction of CGS ventral nuclei at the level of the midbrain rostral part led to a decrease in emotional reaction of \"fear\" and to disturbance of avoidance formation. The participation of midbrain limbic structures in learning and memory is discussed.", "PMID": 433455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1579", "title": "[Frequency of positive diazepam-screening in post-mortem examinations (author's transl)].", "content": "The post-mortem blood specimens of 389 forensic autopsies were analyzed for diazepam. The age of the cases investigated was above 10 years and the survival time was less than 12 hours. Eighteen samples corresponding to 4.6% were found to be diazepam-positive. These 18 samples were distributed equally between men and women. The proportion of diazepam-positive samples was increased in the groups of suicide and poisoning (alcohol and opiates). The association between diazepam intake and poisoning was statistically highly significant. No correlation was found between diazepam intake and age. Alcohol was found to occur significantly more often in the group of the diazepam positive cases as compared to the diazepam negative group.", "contents": "[Frequency of positive diazepam-screening in post-mortem examinations (author's transl)]. The post-mortem blood specimens of 389 forensic autopsies were analyzed for diazepam. The age of the cases investigated was above 10 years and the survival time was less than 12 hours. Eighteen samples corresponding to 4.6% were found to be diazepam-positive. These 18 samples were distributed equally between men and women. The proportion of diazepam-positive samples was increased in the groups of suicide and poisoning (alcohol and opiates). The association between diazepam intake and poisoning was statistically highly significant. No correlation was found between diazepam intake and age. Alcohol was found to occur significantly more often in the group of the diazepam positive cases as compared to the diazepam negative group.", "PMID": 433461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1580", "title": "[Coma d\u00e9pass\u00e9: toxicological-diagnostic and forensic aspects of a fenetyllin (captagon) intoxication (author's transl)].", "content": "In a case of intoxication by Fenetyllin (captagon) with succeeding coma d\u00e9pass\u00e9 it can be shown, that toxicological-diagnostic conclusions can be drawn from the disproportional concentrations between brain and body organs. It may be possible to reveal an unknown intoxication case after autopsy or to contribute to recognition of causality of narcotic incidences after a possible overdose.", "contents": "[Coma d\u00e9pass\u00e9: toxicological-diagnostic and forensic aspects of a fenetyllin (captagon) intoxication (author's transl)]. In a case of intoxication by Fenetyllin (captagon) with succeeding coma d\u00e9pass\u00e9 it can be shown, that toxicological-diagnostic conclusions can be drawn from the disproportional concentrations between brain and body organs. It may be possible to reveal an unknown intoxication case after autopsy or to contribute to recognition of causality of narcotic incidences after a possible overdose.", "PMID": 433462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1581", "title": "[Morphological findings after tracheotomy and laryngeal intubation (author's transl)].", "content": "4 fatal cases after tracheotomy and 35 cases after endotracheal anaesthesia were examined taking pathomorphological aspects into consideration. In long-period intubation mucous membrane necroses occurred as of the 4th day. After 6 days' intubation skeletizations of the tracheal rings were established in each case. Infections of the decubial ulcers and errosion haemorrhages from the necrotically altered tracheal wall were frequent complications. Faulty intubation of the oesophagus and the right bronchus, aspirations and reflex-related circulatory failure during intubation as well as hypoxic damage as a result of the windpipe opening being impaired are discussed from the morphological point of view.", "contents": "[Morphological findings after tracheotomy and laryngeal intubation (author's transl)]. 4 fatal cases after tracheotomy and 35 cases after endotracheal anaesthesia were examined taking pathomorphological aspects into consideration. In long-period intubation mucous membrane necroses occurred as of the 4th day. After 6 days' intubation skeletizations of the tracheal rings were established in each case. Infections of the decubial ulcers and errosion haemorrhages from the necrotically altered tracheal wall were frequent complications. Faulty intubation of the oesophagus and the right bronchus, aspirations and reflex-related circulatory failure during intubation as well as hypoxic damage as a result of the windpipe opening being impaired are discussed from the morphological point of view.", "PMID": 433463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1582", "title": "[Mechanical tolerance of tentorium cerebelli (author's transl)].", "content": "In some cases of accidents primary traumatic brain stem hemorrhages are seen in conjunction with lesions of the tentorium cerebelli. In order to decide, whether accelerations of the infra- or supratentorial brain tissue are actually capable of causing tentorium lesions, burst and teartests of tentorium tissue were conducted. The mean dynamic biaxial tearing force was found to be about 4 bar. This value supports the hypothesis that a main injury causing factor of the tentorium in cases without skull fracture could be the relative motion between the tentorium and the brain hemispheres. The mass of the cerebellum however seems to be insufficient to cause such injury producing deceleration forces on the tentorium.", "contents": "[Mechanical tolerance of tentorium cerebelli (author's transl)]. In some cases of accidents primary traumatic brain stem hemorrhages are seen in conjunction with lesions of the tentorium cerebelli. In order to decide, whether accelerations of the infra- or supratentorial brain tissue are actually capable of causing tentorium lesions, burst and teartests of tentorium tissue were conducted. The mean dynamic biaxial tearing force was found to be about 4 bar. This value supports the hypothesis that a main injury causing factor of the tentorium in cases without skull fracture could be the relative motion between the tentorium and the brain hemispheres. The mass of the cerebellum however seems to be insufficient to cause such injury producing deceleration forces on the tentorium.", "PMID": 433464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1583", "title": "[Impairment of performance by alcohol and diazepam (author's transl)].", "content": "An investigation was carried out on the effect of the intake of diazepam and alcohol on simple performance tests. The combined administration of diazepam and alcohol led to an increase of the plasma diazepam concentration as compared to that obtained after diazepam without alcohol. Furthermore, after combined intake of diazepam and alcohol a decrease of performance was observed, that was significantly higher, than the effects obtained after either alcohol or diazepam alone. This impairment was especially noticeable duirng the first hour of the experiment, i.e. until the plateau of the diazepam plasma concentration was reached, while afterwards a correlation between diazepam plasma concentration and impairment of performance could not be established. The relevance of these findings for the interpretation of diazepam plasma concentrations in relation to the impairment of performance are discussed.", "contents": "[Impairment of performance by alcohol and diazepam (author's transl)]. An investigation was carried out on the effect of the intake of diazepam and alcohol on simple performance tests. The combined administration of diazepam and alcohol led to an increase of the plasma diazepam concentration as compared to that obtained after diazepam without alcohol. Furthermore, after combined intake of diazepam and alcohol a decrease of performance was observed, that was significantly higher, than the effects obtained after either alcohol or diazepam alone. This impairment was especially noticeable duirng the first hour of the experiment, i.e. until the plateau of the diazepam plasma concentration was reached, while afterwards a correlation between diazepam plasma concentration and impairment of performance could not be established. The relevance of these findings for the interpretation of diazepam plasma concentrations in relation to the impairment of performance are discussed.", "PMID": 433465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1584", "title": "Lethal orphenadrine intoxication: report of a case.", "content": "A case of lethal orphenadrine intoxication is reported. Included are the anatomical and toxicological findings. Most conspicuous histologically was the centrilobular necrosis of the liver.", "contents": "Lethal orphenadrine intoxication: report of a case. A case of lethal orphenadrine intoxication is reported. Included are the anatomical and toxicological findings. Most conspicuous histologically was the centrilobular necrosis of the liver.", "PMID": 433466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1585", "title": "Effects of androgens and oestrogens on the behaviour of chicks in an imprinting situation.", "content": "The behavioural effects of testosterone propionate (TP), 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and oestradiol benzoate (OB) were investigated in day-old chicks during imprinting sessions to a duck model. TP increased the duration of peeping while inhibiting the following reaction and the twitters. DHT had more or less the same effects while OB induces the reverse behavioural changes. The behavioural effects of hormone injections agree with behavioural sex differences observed in non-injected animals: males peep more than females which on the other hand produce more twitters. This could be related to sex differences in the hormonal status of the birds at hatching, as it is known that during incubation male chick embryos have higher plasma testosterone levels than females of corresponding ages.", "contents": "Effects of androgens and oestrogens on the behaviour of chicks in an imprinting situation. The behavioural effects of testosterone propionate (TP), 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and oestradiol benzoate (OB) were investigated in day-old chicks during imprinting sessions to a duck model. TP increased the duration of peeping while inhibiting the following reaction and the twitters. DHT had more or less the same effects while OB induces the reverse behavioural changes. The behavioural effects of hormone injections agree with behavioural sex differences observed in non-injected animals: males peep more than females which on the other hand produce more twitters. This could be related to sex differences in the hormonal status of the birds at hatching, as it is known that during incubation male chick embryos have higher plasma testosterone levels than females of corresponding ages.", "PMID": 433467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1586", "title": "[Displacement of electrodes in pacemaker patients (author's transl)].", "content": "The implantation of special electrodes is indicated by right ventricular dilatation and especially by electrode displacement. For this purpose the MIP 2000 has been used with good results. It is the electrode preferred currently, but it may be replaced in future by the screw electrode which is now being clinically tested. Because of the danger of uncontrolled ventricular perforation the indication for operative myocardial implantation of pacemaker electrodes should be restricted especially in cases of myogenic dilatation of the heart.", "contents": "[Displacement of electrodes in pacemaker patients (author's transl)]. The implantation of special electrodes is indicated by right ventricular dilatation and especially by electrode displacement. For this purpose the MIP 2000 has been used with good results. It is the electrode preferred currently, but it may be replaced in future by the screw electrode which is now being clinically tested. Because of the danger of uncontrolled ventricular perforation the indication for operative myocardial implantation of pacemaker electrodes should be restricted especially in cases of myogenic dilatation of the heart.", "PMID": 433482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1587", "title": "[Should thrombendarterectomy of the superficial femoral artery still be practiced? (author's transl)].", "content": "112 subintimal dissections are follwed up over a period of 3 years. The results (67,6% patent at the end of the third year) come up to those of the saphenous vein bypass. The rate of secondary amputations (8%) is low, the mortality rate comes up to 3,6%. In our opinion thrombendarterectomy has satisfactory late results. There is no reason to abstain from it in favour of the vein bypass procedure.", "contents": "[Should thrombendarterectomy of the superficial femoral artery still be practiced? (author's transl)]. 112 subintimal dissections are follwed up over a period of 3 years. The results (67,6% patent at the end of the third year) come up to those of the saphenous vein bypass. The rate of secondary amputations (8%) is low, the mortality rate comes up to 3,6%. In our opinion thrombendarterectomy has satisfactory late results. There is no reason to abstain from it in favour of the vein bypass procedure.", "PMID": 433483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1588", "title": "[Surgical treatment of renovascular hypertension (author's transl)].", "content": "Renal artery stenosis was corrected in 50 patients suffering from renovascular hypertension. In 32 cases hypertension returned to normal, 11 patients were improved and hypertension was unchanged in seven cases.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of renovascular hypertension (author's transl)]. Renal artery stenosis was corrected in 50 patients suffering from renovascular hypertension. In 32 cases hypertension returned to normal, 11 patients were improved and hypertension was unchanged in seven cases.", "PMID": 433484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1589", "title": "[Early detection of bronchial carcinoma by annual mass X ray screening (author's transl)].", "content": "Further investigations of the study group for the early detection of lung cancer in the GDR have confirmed previous conclusions that annual x-ray screening of the chest significantly improves the results of surgical treatment of cancer of the lung. The study now covers 15,336 cases operated upon between 1949 and 1976. Two thirds of all cases treated surgically in the period from 1963 to 1972 were detected by roentgenologic screening. In the screening group the 5-year survival rates after resection were more favourable than in the clinical group: 36% in 1,915 screening cases and 29% in 785 clinical cases in the period from 1965 to 1968. The percentage of peripheral lesions which were treated by lobectomy was significantly higher in the screening group. Since the introduction of a biannual mode of screening, the overall results have worsened because the number of cases detected by x-ray screening has decreased.", "contents": "[Early detection of bronchial carcinoma by annual mass X ray screening (author's transl)]. Further investigations of the study group for the early detection of lung cancer in the GDR have confirmed previous conclusions that annual x-ray screening of the chest significantly improves the results of surgical treatment of cancer of the lung. The study now covers 15,336 cases operated upon between 1949 and 1976. Two thirds of all cases treated surgically in the period from 1963 to 1972 were detected by roentgenologic screening. In the screening group the 5-year survival rates after resection were more favourable than in the clinical group: 36% in 1,915 screening cases and 29% in 785 clinical cases in the period from 1965 to 1968. The percentage of peripheral lesions which were treated by lobectomy was significantly higher in the screening group. Since the introduction of a biannual mode of screening, the overall results have worsened because the number of cases detected by x-ray screening has decreased.", "PMID": 433485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1590", "title": "[Bronchial carcinoma; late results (author's transl)].", "content": "In the last 20 years 482 patients underwent surgery for bronchial carcinoma: mortality rate 5,8%. Pneumonectomy was performed in 172--, bilobectomy in 24--, lobectomiy in 254-- and segmental resection in 32 patients. 5 year survival rate is 36,0%. The late results depend on the size of the tumour, presence or absence of metastases and histology of the malignoma. In undifferentiated forms complex treatment (operation plus chemotherapy) is recommended.", "contents": "[Bronchial carcinoma; late results (author's transl)]. In the last 20 years 482 patients underwent surgery for bronchial carcinoma: mortality rate 5,8%. Pneumonectomy was performed in 172--, bilobectomy in 24--, lobectomiy in 254-- and segmental resection in 32 patients. 5 year survival rate is 36,0%. The late results depend on the size of the tumour, presence or absence of metastases and histology of the malignoma. In undifferentiated forms complex treatment (operation plus chemotherapy) is recommended.", "PMID": 433486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1591", "title": "[Dislocation of the os lunatum and associated injuries (author's transl)].", "content": "234 cases of dislocation of the lunate and its associated injuries taken from literature are statistically examined. The outcome shows that the number of false diagnoses is still high. With immediate reduction the late results are good, whereas the treatment of old dislocations is not satisfactory.", "contents": "[Dislocation of the os lunatum and associated injuries (author's transl)]. 234 cases of dislocation of the lunate and its associated injuries taken from literature are statistically examined. The outcome shows that the number of false diagnoses is still high. With immediate reduction the late results are good, whereas the treatment of old dislocations is not satisfactory.", "PMID": 433488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1592", "title": "[Disease of metalgrinding workers (author's transl)].", "content": "It is a specific clinical picture with extensive soft tissue gas and swelling of the forearm. Usually, the clinical course is without any other symptoms. Therapy is not necessary because gas disappears in few days. The etiology of the disease is not clear. Gas can be generated by the chemical reaction between a metallic foreign body and tissue fluid. Spread of benzine evaporation has been considered as a possible source as well. The disease is very rare and its knowledge is important in differential diagnosis of gas gangrene.", "contents": "[Disease of metalgrinding workers (author's transl)]. It is a specific clinical picture with extensive soft tissue gas and swelling of the forearm. Usually, the clinical course is without any other symptoms. Therapy is not necessary because gas disappears in few days. The etiology of the disease is not clear. Gas can be generated by the chemical reaction between a metallic foreign body and tissue fluid. Spread of benzine evaporation has been considered as a possible source as well. The disease is very rare and its knowledge is important in differential diagnosis of gas gangrene.", "PMID": 433489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1593", "title": "[The value of irreversible contraception].", "content": "8 years after sterilization was in force in GDR it is stated, that this way of female healthy protection was different performed in the varions countries of GDR. The portion of the country Rostock amount to 56,6%. --85,3% of the women were elder than 30 years. 60% of the applicants have had legal abortions. 66,8% of the propositions were based by medical indication. --The rate of complications and failures amount to 0,3%. --By reason of the results it is recommended to regard the sterilization as the adequate method of contraception, if reproduction is finished.", "contents": "[The value of irreversible contraception]. 8 years after sterilization was in force in GDR it is stated, that this way of female healthy protection was different performed in the varions countries of GDR. The portion of the country Rostock amount to 56,6%. --85,3% of the women were elder than 30 years. 60% of the applicants have had legal abortions. 66,8% of the propositions were based by medical indication. --The rate of complications and failures amount to 0,3%. --By reason of the results it is recommended to regard the sterilization as the adequate method of contraception, if reproduction is finished.", "PMID": 433491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1594", "title": "[Results of testicular biopsy in azoospermia].", "content": "The causes of male infertility generally fall into three categories: pretesticular, testicular and posttesticular causes. The pretesticular causes are extragonadal endocrine disorders, such as those originating in the pituitary or the adrenals, which have an adverse effect on spermatogenesis. The testicular causes of infertility are conditions in which the primary defects reside in the testes. The posttesticular causes of infertility consist mainly of obstructions of the ducts leading away from the testes. Testicular biopsy is an important method in the diagnosis and management of male infertility.", "contents": "[Results of testicular biopsy in azoospermia]. The causes of male infertility generally fall into three categories: pretesticular, testicular and posttesticular causes. The pretesticular causes are extragonadal endocrine disorders, such as those originating in the pituitary or the adrenals, which have an adverse effect on spermatogenesis. The testicular causes of infertility are conditions in which the primary defects reside in the testes. The posttesticular causes of infertility consist mainly of obstructions of the ducts leading away from the testes. Testicular biopsy is an important method in the diagnosis and management of male infertility.", "PMID": 433492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1595", "title": "[Imitation of acute adnexa processes through a small intestine ileus].", "content": "Under the picture of acute inflammatory events of adnexa there may be sometimes be hidden diseases of the intestines. Out of them acute state of ileus is of utmost importance. State post appendectomy, atypical anamnesis and antiinflammatory treatment without effect is suspect of an ileus. An early laparotomy presents a low risk in such cases.", "contents": "[Imitation of acute adnexa processes through a small intestine ileus]. Under the picture of acute inflammatory events of adnexa there may be sometimes be hidden diseases of the intestines. Out of them acute state of ileus is of utmost importance. State post appendectomy, atypical anamnesis and antiinflammatory treatment without effect is suspect of an ileus. An early laparotomy presents a low risk in such cases.", "PMID": 433493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1596", "title": "[Management of functional sterility using clomiphene. A clinical experience report].", "content": "121 patients are reported who underwent Clomiphen treatment for functional sterility in the Frauenklinik des Bezirkskrankenhauses Karl-Marx-Stadt from 1. 1. 1974 to 31. 12. 1977. Monophasic cycles (66 patients), corpus luteum insufficiency (41 patients) and secondary amenorrhoea (14 patients) were the indications for the Clomiphen therapy. 54 pregnancies (44,6%) were the result; in 18,5% gravidity was terminated by abortion or initiated interruption (1,9%). The clinical data are stated.", "contents": "[Management of functional sterility using clomiphene. A clinical experience report]. 121 patients are reported who underwent Clomiphen treatment for functional sterility in the Frauenklinik des Bezirkskrankenhauses Karl-Marx-Stadt from 1. 1. 1974 to 31. 12. 1977. Monophasic cycles (66 patients), corpus luteum insufficiency (41 patients) and secondary amenorrhoea (14 patients) were the indications for the Clomiphen therapy. 54 pregnancies (44,6%) were the result; in 18,5% gravidity was terminated by abortion or initiated interruption (1,9%). The clinical data are stated.", "PMID": 433495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1597", "title": "[Morphology of the tubal drainage angle of the human uterus and of the pars intramuralis of the tuba uterina].", "content": "The morphology of the pars intramuralis of the fallopian tube has been histological examined in 500 uteri which were exstirpated in the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the University of Kiel in the years of 1972 to 1973. It was found that the interstitial pars of the endometrium changes regularly during the menstrual cycle. In the same way the endometrium in the interstitial part of the tubal canal suffers from an atrophy if patients were treated with gestagens. The adenomatous hyperplasie or the polypes of the endometrium which are often found near the utero-tubal junction are to be considered as the matrix of the carcinoma of the endometrium; continuous changes between the adenomatous hyperplasie and the carcinoma of the endometrium can be observed. The frequency of precancers near the utero-tubal junction underlines the demand for an accurate curettage in this region of the cavum uteri. The histological examination of the region of the utero-tubal junction after the extirpation of the uterus is absolutely necessary and has to be generally to be asked for.", "contents": "[Morphology of the tubal drainage angle of the human uterus and of the pars intramuralis of the tuba uterina]. The morphology of the pars intramuralis of the fallopian tube has been histological examined in 500 uteri which were exstirpated in the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the University of Kiel in the years of 1972 to 1973. It was found that the interstitial pars of the endometrium changes regularly during the menstrual cycle. In the same way the endometrium in the interstitial part of the tubal canal suffers from an atrophy if patients were treated with gestagens. The adenomatous hyperplasie or the polypes of the endometrium which are often found near the utero-tubal junction are to be considered as the matrix of the carcinoma of the endometrium; continuous changes between the adenomatous hyperplasie and the carcinoma of the endometrium can be observed. The frequency of precancers near the utero-tubal junction underlines the demand for an accurate curettage in this region of the cavum uteri. The histological examination of the region of the utero-tubal junction after the extirpation of the uterus is absolutely necessary and has to be generally to be asked for.", "PMID": 433496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1598", "title": "[Successes in the diagnosis and therapy of sterility at a regional hospital. Contribution on the organization of a sterility counseling service].", "content": "On base of diagnostical and therapeutical possibilities of a district hospital the results in the treatment of the sterility with 194 female patients were analysed. In 36,6% of all cases the treatment ended successfully. Except the general and special gynaecological examinations there were diagnostical arrangements as the simple check of the ovarial function and of the passage of tube, as well as fertility estimation of the sexual partner. In addition to the general medical advice there were therapeutically carried out vaginal sanitation, hormone therapy and the pertubation as well as ovulation induction. By experience there will be worked out a first draft for carrying out sterility hours of consultation. After this a \"basic diagnostic\" and a \"basic therapy\" will be made in the bounds of possibilities of the district hospital. Indications for the transfer of patients to special hospitals for further treatment are represented.", "contents": "[Successes in the diagnosis and therapy of sterility at a regional hospital. Contribution on the organization of a sterility counseling service]. On base of diagnostical and therapeutical possibilities of a district hospital the results in the treatment of the sterility with 194 female patients were analysed. In 36,6% of all cases the treatment ended successfully. Except the general and special gynaecological examinations there were diagnostical arrangements as the simple check of the ovarial function and of the passage of tube, as well as fertility estimation of the sexual partner. In addition to the general medical advice there were therapeutically carried out vaginal sanitation, hormone therapy and the pertubation as well as ovulation induction. By experience there will be worked out a first draft for carrying out sterility hours of consultation. After this a \"basic diagnostic\" and a \"basic therapy\" will be made in the bounds of possibilities of the district hospital. Indications for the transfer of patients to special hospitals for further treatment are represented.", "PMID": 433497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1599", "title": "[Nosogeography of viral hepatitis in the Ukraine over the last 25 years (1952-1976)].", "content": "For 25 years of observation the morbidity rate of viral hepatitis in the Ukraine was irregular. In individual regions the morbidity level fluctuated within 2 to 3-fold range. Regions with invariably high or low morbidity levels for viral hepatitis were distributed over the territory of the republic not chaotically, but in zones: a zone with invariably high morbidity rate (western), a zone with morbidity rate corresponding to the average level for the republic (south-western), and a zone with an invariably low morbidity rate (north-eastern). The expediency of dividing the territory into epidemiological areas in respect of viral hepatitis on a regional or republican level is discussed.", "contents": "[Nosogeography of viral hepatitis in the Ukraine over the last 25 years (1952-1976)]. For 25 years of observation the morbidity rate of viral hepatitis in the Ukraine was irregular. In individual regions the morbidity level fluctuated within 2 to 3-fold range. Regions with invariably high or low morbidity levels for viral hepatitis were distributed over the territory of the republic not chaotically, but in zones: a zone with invariably high morbidity rate (western), a zone with morbidity rate corresponding to the average level for the republic (south-western), and a zone with an invariably low morbidity rate (north-eastern). The expediency of dividing the territory into epidemiological areas in respect of viral hepatitis on a regional or republican level is discussed.", "PMID": 433498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1600", "title": "[Use of the indirect hemagglutination reaction in studying ornithosis infection. III. The diagnostic value of the IHR with an ornithosis erythocytic diagnosticum].", "content": "In both experimental and clinical conditions the passive hemagglutination test (PHAT with the use of an ornithosis erythrocytic diagnostic preparation was found to be sufficiently sensitive and specific as compared with the complement fixation test (CFT), a routine testing method. The study of the dynamics of immune response in infected animals and ornithosis patients allowed to regard the PHAT as a comparatively early method of serological analysis. Hemagglutinins were also found to circulate in the patients' blood sera only for a short time (on the average for 1 1/2--2 months). The CFT and the PHAT with erythrocytic diagnostic preparation, used in combination, will make it possible not only to diagnose ornithosis in patient more effectively, but also to differentiate between the cases of infection and anamnestic reaction.20", "contents": "[Use of the indirect hemagglutination reaction in studying ornithosis infection. III. The diagnostic value of the IHR with an ornithosis erythocytic diagnosticum]. In both experimental and clinical conditions the passive hemagglutination test (PHAT with the use of an ornithosis erythrocytic diagnostic preparation was found to be sufficiently sensitive and specific as compared with the complement fixation test (CFT), a routine testing method. The study of the dynamics of immune response in infected animals and ornithosis patients allowed to regard the PHAT as a comparatively early method of serological analysis. Hemagglutinins were also found to circulate in the patients' blood sera only for a short time (on the average for 1 1/2--2 months). The CFT and the PHAT with erythrocytic diagnostic preparation, used in combination, will make it possible not only to diagnose ornithosis in patient more effectively, but also to differentiate between the cases of infection and anamnestic reaction.20", "PMID": 433499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1601", "title": "[Seasonality of toxoplasmosis].", "content": "The indices of seasonal changes in the proportion of population allergopositive to toxoplasmosis were determined by analyzing the results of intracutaneous tests made in 61,324 pregnant women in Novokuznetsk between 1964 and 1974. Indices exceeding the average monthly level were registered in March-July and in September-October. Taking into account the modal term during which allergization develops in a patient from the moment of toxoplasmic invasion, a high risk of toxoplasmosis infection is likely to be present mainly during winter and spring (December-May), as well as summer (July-August) periods. Researchers should pay attention to the nature of the seasonal prevalence of the epidemic process of toxoplasmosis.", "contents": "[Seasonality of toxoplasmosis]. The indices of seasonal changes in the proportion of population allergopositive to toxoplasmosis were determined by analyzing the results of intracutaneous tests made in 61,324 pregnant women in Novokuznetsk between 1964 and 1974. Indices exceeding the average monthly level were registered in March-July and in September-October. Taking into account the modal term during which allergization develops in a patient from the moment of toxoplasmic invasion, a high risk of toxoplasmosis infection is likely to be present mainly during winter and spring (December-May), as well as summer (July-August) periods. Researchers should pay attention to the nature of the seasonal prevalence of the epidemic process of toxoplasmosis.", "PMID": 433500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1602", "title": "[Use of a cryoultramicrotomy method for the purpose of studying chlamydial ultrastructure].", "content": "The method of cryoultramicrotomy was adapted for the study of the ultrastructure of HeLa and McCoy cells in monolayer cultures infected with Chlamydia, obligatory intracellular procaryotic parasites, the causative agents of ornithosis (strain Loth) and paratrachoma (strain LB 1). The cryosections were obtained by the fixation of the monolayer with 2.5% glutaraldehyde, by the gradual infiltration of precipitated cells with sucrose (0.6--1.2--1.8--2.3 M) prior to freezing in liquid nitrogen, and by the treatment of sections with 1% aqueous methyl cellulose solution before drying. This method ensured good preservation of both Chlamydia, in intracytoplasmic inclusions and host cells, as well as regular reproducibility of the results. Ultrathin sections showed a considerable polymorphism in the vegetative forms of Chlamydia, which was probably due to the structure of their cell walls. Chlamydia, were found to form small vesicle-like structures in the cavities of inclusions. The cell walls and granules inside the elementary bodies of the causative agent of ornithosis were stained with the use of phosphotungstic acid--HCl, pH 0.5.", "contents": "[Use of a cryoultramicrotomy method for the purpose of studying chlamydial ultrastructure]. The method of cryoultramicrotomy was adapted for the study of the ultrastructure of HeLa and McCoy cells in monolayer cultures infected with Chlamydia, obligatory intracellular procaryotic parasites, the causative agents of ornithosis (strain Loth) and paratrachoma (strain LB 1). The cryosections were obtained by the fixation of the monolayer with 2.5% glutaraldehyde, by the gradual infiltration of precipitated cells with sucrose (0.6--1.2--1.8--2.3 M) prior to freezing in liquid nitrogen, and by the treatment of sections with 1% aqueous methyl cellulose solution before drying. This method ensured good preservation of both Chlamydia, in intracytoplasmic inclusions and host cells, as well as regular reproducibility of the results. Ultrathin sections showed a considerable polymorphism in the vegetative forms of Chlamydia, which was probably due to the structure of their cell walls. Chlamydia, were found to form small vesicle-like structures in the cavities of inclusions. The cell walls and granules inside the elementary bodies of the causative agent of ornithosis were stained with the use of phosphotungstic acid--HCl, pH 0.5.", "PMID": 433503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1603", "title": "[Effect of Mycoplasma arthritidis on mouse and rat lymphoid cells in experimental Mycoplasma infection].", "content": "Early stages of mycoplasma infection of mice and rats were accompanied by suppression of the populations of rosette- and plaque-forming cells. Later the character and dynamics of the immune response to M. arthritidis differed in mice and rats. In mice mycoplasma infection was accompanied by stimulation of rosette-forming cells with some suppression of the plaque-forming cells from the 7th to the 36th day of infection. In rats by the 7th day the number of plaque- and rosette-forming cells decreased in comparison with control, and the immune response was restored by the 15h day; at later periods the immune response of the infected rats exceeded the normal level considerably. The cellular and humoral immune reactions proved to depend on the mycoplasma dose.", "contents": "[Effect of Mycoplasma arthritidis on mouse and rat lymphoid cells in experimental Mycoplasma infection]. Early stages of mycoplasma infection of mice and rats were accompanied by suppression of the populations of rosette- and plaque-forming cells. Later the character and dynamics of the immune response to M. arthritidis differed in mice and rats. In mice mycoplasma infection was accompanied by stimulation of rosette-forming cells with some suppression of the plaque-forming cells from the 7th to the 36th day of infection. In rats by the 7th day the number of plaque- and rosette-forming cells decreased in comparison with control, and the immune response was restored by the 15h day; at later periods the immune response of the infected rats exceeded the normal level considerably. The cellular and humoral immune reactions proved to depend on the mycoplasma dose.", "PMID": 433504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1604", "title": "[Surgical treatment of incarcerated toe-nail. Operative technique and results (author's transl)].", "content": "A new surgical technique has been used to treat incarcerated nails in the Military Hospital of Soest, first described by J.P. Dubois. The technique deals with the soft tissues around the nail. A retrospective study of 192 personal cases shows that this technique, which was used 73 times, is followed by twice less recurrences than the classical simple resection of the nail or of the nail bed. Follow-up of 36 classical operations showed 19 recurrences while Dubois technique only showed 1 out of 29 operations. However this technique is followed in 18% of the cases by a minor infection of the wound that heals after 10 days. There were no painful neuroma of the interdigit nerve.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of incarcerated toe-nail. Operative technique and results (author's transl)]. A new surgical technique has been used to treat incarcerated nails in the Military Hospital of Soest, first described by J.P. Dubois. The technique deals with the soft tissues around the nail. A retrospective study of 192 personal cases shows that this technique, which was used 73 times, is followed by twice less recurrences than the classical simple resection of the nail or of the nail bed. Follow-up of 36 classical operations showed 19 recurrences while Dubois technique only showed 1 out of 29 operations. However this technique is followed in 18% of the cases by a minor infection of the wound that heals after 10 days. There were no painful neuroma of the interdigit nerve.", "PMID": 433505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1605", "title": "[Thoughts about 20 cases of hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)].", "content": "The analysis of 20 personal cases of parathyroid hyperplasia or adenoma suggest the following conclusions: 1. The importance of dosage of the parathormone is a decisive factor of the diagnosis and yields data: a) in relation with the volume of the adenoma; b) that return to normal 24 hours after resection; c) that constitute the proof of complete resection. 2. The little utility of the diagnosis of location bij means of elaborate paraclinical exams. The authors show false positive angiograms. Only the inspection of the four parathyroids and of the main heterotopic areas is a valid means of disclosing the lesions responsible of the hyperparathyroidism. It is essential to operate with a skilled pathologist who will read frozen sections.", "contents": "[Thoughts about 20 cases of hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)]. The analysis of 20 personal cases of parathyroid hyperplasia or adenoma suggest the following conclusions: 1. The importance of dosage of the parathormone is a decisive factor of the diagnosis and yields data: a) in relation with the volume of the adenoma; b) that return to normal 24 hours after resection; c) that constitute the proof of complete resection. 2. The little utility of the diagnosis of location bij means of elaborate paraclinical exams. The authors show false positive angiograms. Only the inspection of the four parathyroids and of the main heterotopic areas is a valid means of disclosing the lesions responsible of the hyperparathyroidism. It is essential to operate with a skilled pathologist who will read frozen sections.", "PMID": 433506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1606", "title": "Hypophosphatemia in severe burns. A prospective study.", "content": "In 33 severely burned patients, who were followed for two weeks after injury, a transient hypophosphatemia was registered with the decrease in serum phosphate occurring on the second to tenth day after injury. When a previous retrospective study was combined with the present one, there were 50 patients in all. Seven patients died and, of these, five showed very low values of serum phosphate (S-P) at the time of their death. Simultaneous reduction of urinary phosphate excretion indicates that the depletion of phosphate is mainly prerenal. However, studies of fractional excretion of phosphate demonstrates that renal losses of phosphate might contribute to the hypophosphatemia. A remarkable finding was a general, marked rise in serum calcitonin (S-h-CT). The relationship between the rise in S-h-CT, the increased catecholamine secretion and the hypophosphatemia remains to be further clarified.", "contents": "Hypophosphatemia in severe burns. A prospective study. In 33 severely burned patients, who were followed for two weeks after injury, a transient hypophosphatemia was registered with the decrease in serum phosphate occurring on the second to tenth day after injury. When a previous retrospective study was combined with the present one, there were 50 patients in all. Seven patients died and, of these, five showed very low values of serum phosphate (S-P) at the time of their death. Simultaneous reduction of urinary phosphate excretion indicates that the depletion of phosphate is mainly prerenal. However, studies of fractional excretion of phosphate demonstrates that renal losses of phosphate might contribute to the hypophosphatemia. A remarkable finding was a general, marked rise in serum calcitonin (S-h-CT). The relationship between the rise in S-h-CT, the increased catecholamine secretion and the hypophosphatemia remains to be further clarified.", "PMID": 433511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1607", "title": "Intestinal lesions caused by incorrectly placed seat belts.", "content": "Employment of seat belts reduces the number of fatal accidents and alters the pattern of lesions. However, seat belts themselves can produce serious lesions, particularly if incorrectly placed. Three cases of traumatic intestinal perforation are mentioned. Intestinal perforation often produces few initial symptoms. The diagnosis is difficult and is frequently established late. If marks are present on the abdomen from the seat belt, the patient should be admitted for observation. The possible pathogenesis of the intestinal lesions are mentioned. The seat belt should be correctly placed in order to obtain optimal effect. Reasons for incorrect placing are mentioned. It is important that the seat belt is adjusted to the passenger employing it.", "contents": "Intestinal lesions caused by incorrectly placed seat belts. Employment of seat belts reduces the number of fatal accidents and alters the pattern of lesions. However, seat belts themselves can produce serious lesions, particularly if incorrectly placed. Three cases of traumatic intestinal perforation are mentioned. Intestinal perforation often produces few initial symptoms. The diagnosis is difficult and is frequently established late. If marks are present on the abdomen from the seat belt, the patient should be admitted for observation. The possible pathogenesis of the intestinal lesions are mentioned. The seat belt should be correctly placed in order to obtain optimal effect. Reasons for incorrect placing are mentioned. It is important that the seat belt is adjusted to the passenger employing it.", "PMID": 433512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1608", "title": "[A major visceral anomaly from malrotation of the primitive digestive tube (author's transl)].", "content": "Report of a case of major anomaly of the primitive digestive tube. Due to gastric malrotation the stomach was located to the right, behind the right lobe of the liver and the duodenum ran upward and to the left, passing behind the major biliary tract (mirror image of the normal gastroduodenal structure). The small intestine having undergone a normal rotation, the splenic flexure did not exist, while the ileum and colon gave an image of inversed \"Mesenterium commune\" (absence of the transverse colon, the ascending colon to the right and all the small intestine reassembled to the left). The patient, who presented with a choledocholithiasis underwent an Oddian sphincterotomy in an unusual position.", "contents": "[A major visceral anomaly from malrotation of the primitive digestive tube (author's transl)]. Report of a case of major anomaly of the primitive digestive tube. Due to gastric malrotation the stomach was located to the right, behind the right lobe of the liver and the duodenum ran upward and to the left, passing behind the major biliary tract (mirror image of the normal gastroduodenal structure). The small intestine having undergone a normal rotation, the splenic flexure did not exist, while the ileum and colon gave an image of inversed \"Mesenterium commune\" (absence of the transverse colon, the ascending colon to the right and all the small intestine reassembled to the left). The patient, who presented with a choledocholithiasis underwent an Oddian sphincterotomy in an unusual position.", "PMID": 433508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1609", "title": "Parathyroidectomy in chronic renal failure.", "content": "During the period 1971-1976, subtotal parathyroidectomy was performed on 34 patients with chronic renal failure, representing 8% of all uraemic patients treated on the Renal Ward. Preoperative treatment of renal failure was conservative therapy in 6, haemodialysis in 20 and renal transplantation in 8 patients. The operation was indicated by grave clinical symptoms (pruritus, bone pains and mental disturbances), gastric ulcer and radiological abnormalities (osteoporosis, fractures, subperiosteal resorption and metastatic calcifications). The serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone was determined in 13 cases, and the value was elevated in all. The serum calcium level was elevated in 8 out of 34 cases. Less than 500 mg of parathyroid tissue was removed in 12 cases, between 500 and 6000 mg in 19 and over 6000 mg in 3. Nodular hyperplasia was present in 11 patients, diffuse hyperplasia in 23. Postoperatively marked falls in serum parathyroid hormone and serum calcium values were observed. The bone pains, pruritus and mental disturbances were alleviated, and the general condition was favourably influenced. The operation had a lesser and more retarded effect on the radiological changes. Complete recovery was only achieved with successful renal transplant. Parathyroidectomy often had a favourable effect on the grave symptoms and may, therefore, be considered in some cases of severe hyperparathyroidism secondary to chronic renal failure.", "contents": "Parathyroidectomy in chronic renal failure. During the period 1971-1976, subtotal parathyroidectomy was performed on 34 patients with chronic renal failure, representing 8% of all uraemic patients treated on the Renal Ward. Preoperative treatment of renal failure was conservative therapy in 6, haemodialysis in 20 and renal transplantation in 8 patients. The operation was indicated by grave clinical symptoms (pruritus, bone pains and mental disturbances), gastric ulcer and radiological abnormalities (osteoporosis, fractures, subperiosteal resorption and metastatic calcifications). The serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone was determined in 13 cases, and the value was elevated in all. The serum calcium level was elevated in 8 out of 34 cases. Less than 500 mg of parathyroid tissue was removed in 12 cases, between 500 and 6000 mg in 19 and over 6000 mg in 3. Nodular hyperplasia was present in 11 patients, diffuse hyperplasia in 23. Postoperatively marked falls in serum parathyroid hormone and serum calcium values were observed. The bone pains, pruritus and mental disturbances were alleviated, and the general condition was favourably influenced. The operation had a lesser and more retarded effect on the radiological changes. Complete recovery was only achieved with successful renal transplant. Parathyroidectomy often had a favourable effect on the grave symptoms and may, therefore, be considered in some cases of severe hyperparathyroidism secondary to chronic renal failure.", "PMID": 433513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1610", "title": "Influence of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol on parathyroid activity in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "Parathyroid morphology and blood chemistry were studied in five patients with primary hyperparathyroidism treated with 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) for 2 to 11 days before planned operation. Before the institution of treatment all patients were hypercalcemic, whereas the serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentration either was elevated or normal. During the treatment the urinary phosphate excretion was significantly increased, whereas the calcium excretion and the serum concentrations of calcium and phosphate were unaffected or only slightly changed. Serum iPTH decreased during the first days of treatment, but returned then to increased levels close to the pretreatment ones. The treatment was tolerated well by the patients. Light and electron microscopy of the removed parathyroid glands disclosed one adenoma in each of the five patients, the other glands exhibiting either a slight hyperplasia or a normal appearance. Both the adenomatous and the non-adenomatous parathyroid tissue showed a predominance of dark chief cells and three of the adenomas exhibited a varying number of atrophic and oxyphil cells. The non-adenomatous glands were composed of atrophic and dark chief cells. Signs of low functional activity were ultrastructurally observed in the parathyroid parenchymal cells. It is suggested that 1,25-DHCC treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism inhibits parathyroid hormone secretion.", "contents": "Influence of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol on parathyroid activity in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Parathyroid morphology and blood chemistry were studied in five patients with primary hyperparathyroidism treated with 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) for 2 to 11 days before planned operation. Before the institution of treatment all patients were hypercalcemic, whereas the serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentration either was elevated or normal. During the treatment the urinary phosphate excretion was significantly increased, whereas the calcium excretion and the serum concentrations of calcium and phosphate were unaffected or only slightly changed. Serum iPTH decreased during the first days of treatment, but returned then to increased levels close to the pretreatment ones. The treatment was tolerated well by the patients. Light and electron microscopy of the removed parathyroid glands disclosed one adenoma in each of the five patients, the other glands exhibiting either a slight hyperplasia or a normal appearance. Both the adenomatous and the non-adenomatous parathyroid tissue showed a predominance of dark chief cells and three of the adenomas exhibited a varying number of atrophic and oxyphil cells. The non-adenomatous glands were composed of atrophic and dark chief cells. Signs of low functional activity were ultrastructurally observed in the parathyroid parenchymal cells. It is suggested that 1,25-DHCC treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism inhibits parathyroid hormone secretion.", "PMID": 433514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1611", "title": "Repair of hiatus hernia by an abdominal semi-fundoplication technique.", "content": "The results of an anti-reflux operation are reviewed. The procedure is similar to the Belsey Mark IV operation, a semi-fundoplication, but performed via an abdominal approach. Forty-five patients were operated upon between 1971 and 1977, 41 had a sliding hernia and 4 a para-oesophageal hernia. Two patients died during the observation period. The follow-up of the remaining 43 patients includes clinical, radiological and manometric examinations. The length of follow-up averaged 35 months (7--70 months). There were 6 anatomic recurrences or persisting sliding hernia and one recurrence of paraoesophageal hernia. Three of the patients with recurrence had been subjected to parietal cell vagotomy and hernia repair, and one was a primary technical failure with persisting hernia. In 32 technically successful repairs of sliding hernia performed as a primary procedure without concomitant PCV, there was one recurrence. Subjectively, 93% (40/43) of the patients considered the operative result excellent or good. Manometric studies showed a significant rise in the lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, from a median value of 6.5 mmHg preoperatively to 12.5 mmHg postoperatively (p less than 0.05) (median value in normal controls, 15.3 mmHg).", "contents": "Repair of hiatus hernia by an abdominal semi-fundoplication technique. The results of an anti-reflux operation are reviewed. The procedure is similar to the Belsey Mark IV operation, a semi-fundoplication, but performed via an abdominal approach. Forty-five patients were operated upon between 1971 and 1977, 41 had a sliding hernia and 4 a para-oesophageal hernia. Two patients died during the observation period. The follow-up of the remaining 43 patients includes clinical, radiological and manometric examinations. The length of follow-up averaged 35 months (7--70 months). There were 6 anatomic recurrences or persisting sliding hernia and one recurrence of paraoesophageal hernia. Three of the patients with recurrence had been subjected to parietal cell vagotomy and hernia repair, and one was a primary technical failure with persisting hernia. In 32 technically successful repairs of sliding hernia performed as a primary procedure without concomitant PCV, there was one recurrence. Subjectively, 93% (40/43) of the patients considered the operative result excellent or good. Manometric studies showed a significant rise in the lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, from a median value of 6.5 mmHg preoperatively to 12.5 mmHg postoperatively (p less than 0.05) (median value in normal controls, 15.3 mmHg).", "PMID": 433515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1612", "title": "[The surgery of peripheral nerves. New perspectives in treatment by the microsurgical techniques (author's transl)].", "content": "The author describes the different techniques of reconstructive surgery of peripheral nerves and the failures that marked these trials until the advent of microsurgical techniques. After stressing the importance of the biology and physiopathology of a traumatized nerve and its stem cells, the author detailes the regeneration stages of the nerve cell when ideal conditions of axonal alignment are established by microtechniques. Considering the different notions of biology and pathology in relation to the time delay between the traumatism and referral to the surgeon, the author insists on the absolute necessity of operating during the period of full regeneration of the nerve cell, i.e. within the first 6 months.", "contents": "[The surgery of peripheral nerves. New perspectives in treatment by the microsurgical techniques (author's transl)]. The author describes the different techniques of reconstructive surgery of peripheral nerves and the failures that marked these trials until the advent of microsurgical techniques. After stressing the importance of the biology and physiopathology of a traumatized nerve and its stem cells, the author detailes the regeneration stages of the nerve cell when ideal conditions of axonal alignment are established by microtechniques. Considering the different notions of biology and pathology in relation to the time delay between the traumatism and referral to the surgeon, the author insists on the absolute necessity of operating during the period of full regeneration of the nerve cell, i.e. within the first 6 months.", "PMID": 433509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1613", "title": "[The place of surgery in the treatment of testicular tumors other than seminoma (author's transl)].", "content": "Surgery plays an important part in the treatment of non seminomatous testicular tumors. An oncologically correct technique of orchidectomy is the first essential if the better prognosis of these tumors, noted in the past decade, is to be further improved. The testis should be removed through an inguinal approach. Radical retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy is gaining more favour at the present time. This operation, routinely performed in the US. is being performed more frequently in Europe. The justification for this major operation with a definite morbidity is to be found in the better survival rate achieved in patients undergoing surgery as compared to that achieved using other treatment modalities. A description of the operative technique delineates the magnitude of the surgery but also shows that, working methodically the operation is feasible.", "contents": "[The place of surgery in the treatment of testicular tumors other than seminoma (author's transl)]. Surgery plays an important part in the treatment of non seminomatous testicular tumors. An oncologically correct technique of orchidectomy is the first essential if the better prognosis of these tumors, noted in the past decade, is to be further improved. The testis should be removed through an inguinal approach. Radical retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy is gaining more favour at the present time. This operation, routinely performed in the US. is being performed more frequently in Europe. The justification for this major operation with a definite morbidity is to be found in the better survival rate achieved in patients undergoing surgery as compared to that achieved using other treatment modalities. A description of the operative technique delineates the magnitude of the surgery but also shows that, working methodically the operation is feasible.", "PMID": 433510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1614", "title": "Non-operative management of splenic rupture.", "content": "A splenectomized patient is at a significant increased risk of serious infection. Consequently, it is mandatory to avoid splenectomy whenever possible. In selective trauma cases this is feasible, either by surgical repair of the ruptured spleen or by non-operative management. Nine typical cases of splenic rupture diagnosed by scintigraphy were successfully treated non-operatively.", "contents": "Non-operative management of splenic rupture. A splenectomized patient is at a significant increased risk of serious infection. Consequently, it is mandatory to avoid splenectomy whenever possible. In selective trauma cases this is feasible, either by surgical repair of the ruptured spleen or by non-operative management. Nine typical cases of splenic rupture diagnosed by scintigraphy were successfully treated non-operatively.", "PMID": 433516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1615", "title": "ATP-induced release of vasopressin from isolated bovine neurohypophyseal secretory granules. Dependency on chloride and effects of analogues of ATP.", "content": "Secretory granules isolated from bovine neurohypophyses released vasopressin in the presence of a buffered medium containing ATP, Mg2+ and KCl. Substitution of K+ in the medium with Na+ or choline did not affect the release. Substitution of Cl- with either sucrose, sulphate or acetate strongly reduced the release. Analogues of ATP, substituted at the beta-gamma anhydride bond with methylene or imido groups caused a smaller release which was not related to a very small breakdown of analogues that occurred. It is suggested that at least part of the ATP induced release is due to a physicochemical action.", "contents": "ATP-induced release of vasopressin from isolated bovine neurohypophyseal secretory granules. Dependency on chloride and effects of analogues of ATP. Secretory granules isolated from bovine neurohypophyses released vasopressin in the presence of a buffered medium containing ATP, Mg2+ and KCl. Substitution of K+ in the medium with Na+ or choline did not affect the release. Substitution of Cl- with either sucrose, sulphate or acetate strongly reduced the release. Analogues of ATP, substituted at the beta-gamma anhydride bond with methylene or imido groups caused a smaller release which was not related to a very small breakdown of analogues that occurred. It is suggested that at least part of the ATP induced release is due to a physicochemical action.", "PMID": 433518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1616", "title": "Liver cirrhosis and oestrogen metabolism--perfusion studies with cirrhotic rat livers.", "content": "1. Radioactive oestrone and oestradiol-17 beta were perfused through normal and cirrhotic livers of rats. Liver cirrhosis had been induced by a combined application of carbon tetrachloride and azathioprine. 2. The hepatic uptake of both oestrogens by cirrhotic livers was reduced; the uptake of oestrone was more affected than that of oestradiol-17 beta. 3. The pattern of oestrogen metabolites indicated a reduction of the sulphotransferase activity in cirrhotic livers. The activity of other enzymes of oestrogen metabolism were similar in normal and cirrhotic livers. 4. The amount of oestrogen glucuronides excreted into the bile was significantly less in cirrhotic livers although the bile volume was larger in cirrhotic than normal livers. 5. The release of oestrogen metabolites into the circulating medium was considerably higher during perfusion of cirrhotic livers. From the findings presented here it is concluded that the turnover of oestrogens is slower in cirrhotic than in normal livers. Moreover, it may be speculated that the distribution volume of the oestrogen metabolites is smaller in rats with liver cirrhosis, due to a disturbed enterohepatic circulation. This results in higher oestrogen concentrations in extracellular fluids, thus supporting the concept of hyper-oestrogenism in liver cirrhosis.", "contents": "Liver cirrhosis and oestrogen metabolism--perfusion studies with cirrhotic rat livers. 1. Radioactive oestrone and oestradiol-17 beta were perfused through normal and cirrhotic livers of rats. Liver cirrhosis had been induced by a combined application of carbon tetrachloride and azathioprine. 2. The hepatic uptake of both oestrogens by cirrhotic livers was reduced; the uptake of oestrone was more affected than that of oestradiol-17 beta. 3. The pattern of oestrogen metabolites indicated a reduction of the sulphotransferase activity in cirrhotic livers. The activity of other enzymes of oestrogen metabolism were similar in normal and cirrhotic livers. 4. The amount of oestrogen glucuronides excreted into the bile was significantly less in cirrhotic livers although the bile volume was larger in cirrhotic than normal livers. 5. The release of oestrogen metabolites into the circulating medium was considerably higher during perfusion of cirrhotic livers. From the findings presented here it is concluded that the turnover of oestrogens is slower in cirrhotic than in normal livers. Moreover, it may be speculated that the distribution volume of the oestrogen metabolites is smaller in rats with liver cirrhosis, due to a disturbed enterohepatic circulation. This results in higher oestrogen concentrations in extracellular fluids, thus supporting the concept of hyper-oestrogenism in liver cirrhosis.", "PMID": 433519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1617", "title": "High corticosteroid levels in plasma of adult and foetal Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddelli).", "content": "Pregnant and non-pregnant Weddell seals and foetuses were found to have very high plasma concentrations of corticosteroids (1--7 mumol/l) that were unaffected by stress. Cortisol comprised most of the corticosteroid in the adult but only 50% of that in the foetus. The affinity constant (4.30-5.53 x 10(7) l/mol) and specificity of CBG and the MCR (4.5 l/d/kg lean body mass) in adult seals were similar to those of Man. The binding capacity of CBG (1.48--1.86 mumol/l) which is approximately three times that of Man contributed to the high plasma corticosteroid concentrations but the main factor was the cortisol turnover rate of 3670 mumol/d (1.3 g/d) which is the highest value reported in any species.", "contents": "High corticosteroid levels in plasma of adult and foetal Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddelli). Pregnant and non-pregnant Weddell seals and foetuses were found to have very high plasma concentrations of corticosteroids (1--7 mumol/l) that were unaffected by stress. Cortisol comprised most of the corticosteroid in the adult but only 50% of that in the foetus. The affinity constant (4.30-5.53 x 10(7) l/mol) and specificity of CBG and the MCR (4.5 l/d/kg lean body mass) in adult seals were similar to those of Man. The binding capacity of CBG (1.48--1.86 mumol/l) which is approximately three times that of Man contributed to the high plasma corticosteroid concentrations but the main factor was the cortisol turnover rate of 3670 mumol/d (1.3 g/d) which is the highest value reported in any species.", "PMID": 433520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1618", "title": "Progesterone-independent avidin induction in chick tissues caused by tissue injury and inflammation.", "content": "Progesterone was administered to oestrogen-treated and untreated chicks, or inflammation in the abdominal cavity was caused by intestine and liver injury or intraperitoneal actinomycin D administration. Local injury to the pectoral muscle was also carried out. Chicks were killed 24--26 h after the treatment and the biotin-binding egg white protein, avidin, was assayed in a number of tissues using a [14C]biotin-binding method and radioimmunoassay. Ovalbumin was also assayed with a radioimmunoassay. Avidin was not found in the tissues of control chicks. Progesterone induced avidin only in the oviducts of oestrogen-treated chicks. After intestine and liver injury avidin was found, however, in all the tissues of oestrogen-treated and untreated chicks studied except for the brain. The concentrations were highest in the oviduct, lung, intestine and bursa of Fabricius. Actinomycin D (200 microgram/kg) caused ascites and subcutaneous oedema in 40--60% of the chicks, and avidin was found only in the tissues of these inflamed animals. Avidin production caused by the local muscular injury was restricted to the injured area. Tissue injury and inflammation did not induce ovalbumin in any tissue. The study shows that avidin can be induced besides the oviduct also in non-oviductal chick tissues, and it is proposed that there are both progesterone-dependent and -independent avidin induction mechanisms.", "contents": "Progesterone-independent avidin induction in chick tissues caused by tissue injury and inflammation. Progesterone was administered to oestrogen-treated and untreated chicks, or inflammation in the abdominal cavity was caused by intestine and liver injury or intraperitoneal actinomycin D administration. Local injury to the pectoral muscle was also carried out. Chicks were killed 24--26 h after the treatment and the biotin-binding egg white protein, avidin, was assayed in a number of tissues using a [14C]biotin-binding method and radioimmunoassay. Ovalbumin was also assayed with a radioimmunoassay. Avidin was not found in the tissues of control chicks. Progesterone induced avidin only in the oviducts of oestrogen-treated chicks. After intestine and liver injury avidin was found, however, in all the tissues of oestrogen-treated and untreated chicks studied except for the brain. The concentrations were highest in the oviduct, lung, intestine and bursa of Fabricius. Actinomycin D (200 microgram/kg) caused ascites and subcutaneous oedema in 40--60% of the chicks, and avidin was found only in the tissues of these inflamed animals. Avidin production caused by the local muscular injury was restricted to the injured area. Tissue injury and inflammation did not induce ovalbumin in any tissue. The study shows that avidin can be induced besides the oviduct also in non-oviductal chick tissues, and it is proposed that there are both progesterone-dependent and -independent avidin induction mechanisms.", "PMID": 433521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1619", "title": "[C-14 serotonin uptake by turkey thrombocytes].", "content": "Centrifugation technique of thrombocytes through silicone oil permits rapid separation of cells from plasma with simultaneous measurement of plasma trapped between the cells in the pellet. This technique was used for determination of 5-HT uptake by turkey thrombocytes. The volume of trapped plasma proportional to the number of thrombocytes was measured using 125I-human serum albumin as a marker. The uptake of 14C-serotonin by thrombocytes was measured as the difference between total radioactivity and that of the trapped plasma. It was shown that turkey thrombocytes like mammalian platelets are able to take up great amounts of serotonin.", "contents": "[C-14 serotonin uptake by turkey thrombocytes]. Centrifugation technique of thrombocytes through silicone oil permits rapid separation of cells from plasma with simultaneous measurement of plasma trapped between the cells in the pellet. This technique was used for determination of 5-HT uptake by turkey thrombocytes. The volume of trapped plasma proportional to the number of thrombocytes was measured using 125I-human serum albumin as a marker. The uptake of 14C-serotonin by thrombocytes was measured as the difference between total radioactivity and that of the trapped plasma. It was shown that turkey thrombocytes like mammalian platelets are able to take up great amounts of serotonin.", "PMID": 433522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1620", "title": "Fine structure and origin of interstitial tissue in the ovary of the pregnant rat.", "content": "Interstitial cells of the rat ovary during pregnancy have been studied by electron microscopy. They show the characteristic fine-structural features associated with steroid-secreting cells. The findings have shown the presence of transitional intermediate stages between theca externa cells and interstitial cells, indicating the possible participation of the theca externa in the formation of interstitial cells.", "contents": "Fine structure and origin of interstitial tissue in the ovary of the pregnant rat. Interstitial cells of the rat ovary during pregnancy have been studied by electron microscopy. They show the characteristic fine-structural features associated with steroid-secreting cells. The findings have shown the presence of transitional intermediate stages between theca externa cells and interstitial cells, indicating the possible participation of the theca externa in the formation of interstitial cells.", "PMID": 433560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1621", "title": "[Topographic anatomy and fiber diameter of the human vagal trunk].", "content": "The vagal trunci of a series of 31 males and females were investigated and quantitative measurements of vagal fibers were also made from human vagal nerves. Most of the nerves contained fibers of the visceromotor, secretory and sensible type. The posterior vagal nerve contained somatomotor fibers.", "contents": "[Topographic anatomy and fiber diameter of the human vagal trunk]. The vagal trunci of a series of 31 males and females were investigated and quantitative measurements of vagal fibers were also made from human vagal nerves. Most of the nerves contained fibers of the visceromotor, secretory and sensible type. The posterior vagal nerve contained somatomotor fibers.", "PMID": 433561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1622", "title": "Effect of cyproterone acetate on the reproductive system of the female rat. A histological review.", "content": "Effects of cyproterone acetate, a synthetic steroidal compound, on the reproductive organs of female rats have been investigated. This agent caused reduction of ovarian weights indicative of suppression of pituitary gonadotrophins. Oestrogenic nature of cyproterone acetate was investigated in intact and ovariectomized rats taking uterine weight and vaginal keratinization as an index of oestrogenicity. Cyproterone acetate in ovariectomized animals induced vaginal keratinization and increased the uterine weights. These effects were parallel to the effect of oestradiol dipropionate in ovariectomized animals, thus indicating oestrogenic activity of cyproterone acetate. We may conclude that the above compound caused antifertility effects due to its oestrogenic nature at the dose level of 2 mg/alternate day in rats when the compound was administered subcutaneously.", "contents": "Effect of cyproterone acetate on the reproductive system of the female rat. A histological review. Effects of cyproterone acetate, a synthetic steroidal compound, on the reproductive organs of female rats have been investigated. This agent caused reduction of ovarian weights indicative of suppression of pituitary gonadotrophins. Oestrogenic nature of cyproterone acetate was investigated in intact and ovariectomized rats taking uterine weight and vaginal keratinization as an index of oestrogenicity. Cyproterone acetate in ovariectomized animals induced vaginal keratinization and increased the uterine weights. These effects were parallel to the effect of oestradiol dipropionate in ovariectomized animals, thus indicating oestrogenic activity of cyproterone acetate. We may conclude that the above compound caused antifertility effects due to its oestrogenic nature at the dose level of 2 mg/alternate day in rats when the compound was administered subcutaneously.", "PMID": 433562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1623", "title": "Electron-microscopic study of the secretion of the ependymal cells in the domestic cat (ependymin-beta cells).", "content": "We have studied, by electron microscopy, the ultrastructural aspects of secretion (neurosecretion) of the ependyma of the third ventricle of the domestic cat. We have found cytoplasmic protrusions and isolated masses of cytoplasm, some with homogeneous cytoplasm and others with very dense granulation (protein-beta?). Axons, synaptic terminals and free secretory granules in the ventricular lumen were also seen. The existence of ependymin-beta cells (ependymocyte-beta) and axohormonal buttons is suggested. The ependymal cells are classified into seven types: (1) covering ependymocytes, (2) tanycyt ependymocytes, (3) secretory ependymocytes, (4) ependymocytes-beta, (5) neurosecretory ependymocytes, (6) neurosensorial ependymocytes (crown-like) and (7) supraependymal microgial ependymocytes. A neurohormonal hypothesis and the possible existence of one or more cerebral hormones (neurohormones) are suggested. These hormones would flow into the CSF through some of the ependymal cells (by microapocrine secretion, liberation of neurosecretion granules, or by axohormonal buttons): this could be the most important link in the endocrine system, assuring the functional unity throughout the ventricular system of the cerebrospinal axis which it winds through, although its basic influence is exercised) on the hypophysis level as a vertex of the classical endocrine system.", "contents": "Electron-microscopic study of the secretion of the ependymal cells in the domestic cat (ependymin-beta cells). We have studied, by electron microscopy, the ultrastructural aspects of secretion (neurosecretion) of the ependyma of the third ventricle of the domestic cat. We have found cytoplasmic protrusions and isolated masses of cytoplasm, some with homogeneous cytoplasm and others with very dense granulation (protein-beta?). Axons, synaptic terminals and free secretory granules in the ventricular lumen were also seen. The existence of ependymin-beta cells (ependymocyte-beta) and axohormonal buttons is suggested. The ependymal cells are classified into seven types: (1) covering ependymocytes, (2) tanycyt ependymocytes, (3) secretory ependymocytes, (4) ependymocytes-beta, (5) neurosecretory ependymocytes, (6) neurosensorial ependymocytes (crown-like) and (7) supraependymal microgial ependymocytes. A neurohormonal hypothesis and the possible existence of one or more cerebral hormones (neurohormones) are suggested. These hormones would flow into the CSF through some of the ependymal cells (by microapocrine secretion, liberation of neurosecretion granules, or by axohormonal buttons): this could be the most important link in the endocrine system, assuring the functional unity throughout the ventricular system of the cerebrospinal axis which it winds through, although its basic influence is exercised) on the hypophysis level as a vertex of the classical endocrine system.", "PMID": 433563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1624", "title": "Histological and histochemical observations on the forestomach of goat during pre-natal life.", "content": "Non-keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium lined the mucosa of the fore-stomach. The mucosal appendages in the form of ruminal papillae did not develop in the rumen during this study, however, omasal laminae and reticular ribs were evident in groups I and II, respectively. Cytoplasmic accumulations were evident in the middle layer of the epithelium, which is characteristic of this region. The thickness of the epithelium increased constantly in the rumen and reticulum, but in the omasum it remained constant with the increase in the size of the fetus. The corial papillae in the rumen, reticulum and omasum appeared at the 12.7-, 11.5-and 14.6-cm CVR stage, respectively. The muscularis mucosae appeared in the omasum at the 14.6-cm CVR stage in the first-order laminae. The tunica muscularis consisted of spirally arranged muscle fibre bundles. Cross-cut muscle fibre bundles below the tip of the omasal laminae descended downward with the increase in the size of the fetus and continued with the inner circular layer. Acid and alkaline phosphatases and fat could not be observed. The concentration of glycogen in the epithelium was maximum in group III and minimum in group II.", "contents": "Histological and histochemical observations on the forestomach of goat during pre-natal life. Non-keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium lined the mucosa of the fore-stomach. The mucosal appendages in the form of ruminal papillae did not develop in the rumen during this study, however, omasal laminae and reticular ribs were evident in groups I and II, respectively. Cytoplasmic accumulations were evident in the middle layer of the epithelium, which is characteristic of this region. The thickness of the epithelium increased constantly in the rumen and reticulum, but in the omasum it remained constant with the increase in the size of the fetus. The corial papillae in the rumen, reticulum and omasum appeared at the 12.7-, 11.5-and 14.6-cm CVR stage, respectively. The muscularis mucosae appeared in the omasum at the 14.6-cm CVR stage in the first-order laminae. The tunica muscularis consisted of spirally arranged muscle fibre bundles. Cross-cut muscle fibre bundles below the tip of the omasal laminae descended downward with the increase in the size of the fetus and continued with the inner circular layer. Acid and alkaline phosphatases and fat could not be observed. The concentration of glycogen in the epithelium was maximum in group III and minimum in group II.", "PMID": 433564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1625", "title": "Changes in laser-irradiated retina in the first 24 h after irradiation.", "content": "Retinas of laser-irradiated mice were studied in the first 24 h after irradiation. Decrease in Na+ and K+ concentrations and in phagosome number and increase in pyknotic cells were observed several hours after irradiation.", "contents": "Changes in laser-irradiated retina in the first 24 h after irradiation. Retinas of laser-irradiated mice were studied in the first 24 h after irradiation. Decrease in Na+ and K+ concentrations and in phagosome number and increase in pyknotic cells were observed several hours after irradiation.", "PMID": 433565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1626", "title": "The epididymal region of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).", "content": "The epididymal region of the Japanese quail was studied histologically. The organ consists of the extratesticular portion of the rete testis, the ductuli efferentes proximales and distales, the ducti conjugentes and ductus epididymidis. Distinct tubuli recti link the seminiferous tubules with the rete testis. The non-ciliated cells of the ductuli efferentes proximales and distales show, between them, certain internal structural differences which were highlighted. In 40% of the birds, the ductus deferens showed dark-grey pigments, regarded as melanin. The epididymal region was generally similar in structure to that of the domestic fowl, turkey and duck.", "contents": "The epididymal region of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). The epididymal region of the Japanese quail was studied histologically. The organ consists of the extratesticular portion of the rete testis, the ductuli efferentes proximales and distales, the ducti conjugentes and ductus epididymidis. Distinct tubuli recti link the seminiferous tubules with the rete testis. The non-ciliated cells of the ductuli efferentes proximales and distales show, between them, certain internal structural differences which were highlighted. In 40% of the birds, the ductus deferens showed dark-grey pigments, regarded as melanin. The epididymal region was generally similar in structure to that of the domestic fowl, turkey and duck.", "PMID": 433566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1627", "title": "Histochemical study on the innervation of the heart of Pteropus giganteus.", "content": "Histochemical study of the innervation of the heart of the Indian flying fox Pteropus giganteus has been made using Coupland and Holmes' technique for cholinesterase. Distribution of nerve plexuses in the heart wall has been described. Nerve cells, nerve endings and various types of synapses have been reported. Specialized muscle fibres are found to contain less nerve fibres and conduction of the impulse of contraction is reported to take place through muscle fibres.", "contents": "Histochemical study on the innervation of the heart of Pteropus giganteus. Histochemical study of the innervation of the heart of the Indian flying fox Pteropus giganteus has been made using Coupland and Holmes' technique for cholinesterase. Distribution of nerve plexuses in the heart wall has been described. Nerve cells, nerve endings and various types of synapses have been reported. Specialized muscle fibres are found to contain less nerve fibres and conduction of the impulse of contraction is reported to take place through muscle fibres.", "PMID": 433567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1628", "title": "[Fiber analysis of human ventral and dorsal roots on the basis of different acetylcholinesterase activity].", "content": "Marked differences in the AChE activity of myelinated nerve fibers of ventral and dorsal roots could be established in human post mortem material. After a fixation time of 3 h and a critical incubation period of 24 h, in the mean 96% of the myelinated ventral root but only 4% of dorsal root fibers showed reaction product, detectable by the light microscope. The percentage of stained fibres varies, to some extent, in the different segments. Groups of very thin myelinated fibres within the ventral roots between the segments C-8 and L-3, showing a conspicuous high enzyme activity, are interpreted as pre-ganglionic sympathetic fibres; similar elements in the sacral ventral roots may represent parasympathetic fibres. The method of Karnovsky, applied under conditions established in this study, can be used for analysis of fibre types in a given human peripheral nerve.", "contents": "[Fiber analysis of human ventral and dorsal roots on the basis of different acetylcholinesterase activity]. Marked differences in the AChE activity of myelinated nerve fibers of ventral and dorsal roots could be established in human post mortem material. After a fixation time of 3 h and a critical incubation period of 24 h, in the mean 96% of the myelinated ventral root but only 4% of dorsal root fibers showed reaction product, detectable by the light microscope. The percentage of stained fibres varies, to some extent, in the different segments. Groups of very thin myelinated fibres within the ventral roots between the segments C-8 and L-3, showing a conspicuous high enzyme activity, are interpreted as pre-ganglionic sympathetic fibres; similar elements in the sacral ventral roots may represent parasympathetic fibres. The method of Karnovsky, applied under conditions established in this study, can be used for analysis of fibre types in a given human peripheral nerve.", "PMID": 433568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1629", "title": "Microdensitometry of acetylcholinesterase in subfields of the hippocampal pyramidal layer and fascia dentata.", "content": "A quantitative acetylcholinesterase enzyme-histochemical study was performed with microdensitometric methods in the hippocampus of the rat in order to correlate this enzymatic activity with the different zones of the hippocampal pyramidal layer. Higher values of acetylcholinesterase activity were found in the CA3 pyramidal zone. CA1 and CA4 showed the same activity, while the stratum oriens at CA3 showed the highest values among the hippocampal layers studied. The results were correlated with differences in septal afferences.", "contents": "Microdensitometry of acetylcholinesterase in subfields of the hippocampal pyramidal layer and fascia dentata. A quantitative acetylcholinesterase enzyme-histochemical study was performed with microdensitometric methods in the hippocampus of the rat in order to correlate this enzymatic activity with the different zones of the hippocampal pyramidal layer. Higher values of acetylcholinesterase activity were found in the CA3 pyramidal zone. CA1 and CA4 showed the same activity, while the stratum oriens at CA3 showed the highest values among the hippocampal layers studied. The results were correlated with differences in septal afferences.", "PMID": 433569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1630", "title": "Micro-indentation hardness studies on human bones.", "content": "Bones from different portions of human skeleton are polished and cut to suitable sizes and then subjected to micro-indentation at various loads using Vicker's diamond pyramidal indenter. The Vicker's hardness number is found to differ slightly from portion to portion of the skeleton. Interferometric studies of the indentation reveal that the applied stress of indentation causes a 'pile-up' of material near the corners of the pyramidal indents.", "contents": "Micro-indentation hardness studies on human bones. Bones from different portions of human skeleton are polished and cut to suitable sizes and then subjected to micro-indentation at various loads using Vicker's diamond pyramidal indenter. The Vicker's hardness number is found to differ slightly from portion to portion of the skeleton. Interferometric studies of the indentation reveal that the applied stress of indentation causes a 'pile-up' of material near the corners of the pyramidal indents.", "PMID": 433570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1631", "title": "Effect of X-rays on Xenopus tadpoles.", "content": "Irradiation of Xenopus tadpoles may cause precocious metamorphosis related to deprivation of food caused by gut damage. This makes the interpretation of the effects of X-rays on individual organs systems, such as the gonads, difficult.", "contents": "Effect of X-rays on Xenopus tadpoles. Irradiation of Xenopus tadpoles may cause precocious metamorphosis related to deprivation of food caused by gut damage. This makes the interpretation of the effects of X-rays on individual organs systems, such as the gonads, difficult.", "PMID": 433571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1632", "title": "Psychomotor epilepsy and psychosis. III. Social and psychological correlates.", "content": "In a controlled investigation of paranoid hallucinatory chronic or episodic epileptic psychoses, the social data, psychopathological symptoms and the psychological test findings (WAIS, Rorschach, object-sorting, proverb-interpretation and the Stroop test) were analyzed in order to delineate the characteristics of the psychotic syndrome and to evaluate the significance of organic etiological factors. The study comprised 45 patients with complex partial epilepsy followed by psychosis after median 23 years, and 34 control patients with the same type of epilepsy of median 30 years' duration. Among the psychotic symptoms, simple, mostly empathizable persecutory delusions and auditory hallucinations predominated. The affect tended to remain appropiate, and autistic traits were uncommon. In accordance with this finding of a relatively circumscribed psychotic personality disturbance, psychotic test indicators were infrequent in the psychological tests, the Rorschach test 28%, and the object-sorting test 18% of the cases. The poorer test performances in the WAIS and the Stroop tests, and the preponderance of organic Rorschach test signs in the psychotic group indicate that organic cerebral damage is of etiological significance in paranoid epileptic psychosis.", "contents": "Psychomotor epilepsy and psychosis. III. Social and psychological correlates. In a controlled investigation of paranoid hallucinatory chronic or episodic epileptic psychoses, the social data, psychopathological symptoms and the psychological test findings (WAIS, Rorschach, object-sorting, proverb-interpretation and the Stroop test) were analyzed in order to delineate the characteristics of the psychotic syndrome and to evaluate the significance of organic etiological factors. The study comprised 45 patients with complex partial epilepsy followed by psychosis after median 23 years, and 34 control patients with the same type of epilepsy of median 30 years' duration. Among the psychotic symptoms, simple, mostly empathizable persecutory delusions and auditory hallucinations predominated. The affect tended to remain appropiate, and autistic traits were uncommon. In accordance with this finding of a relatively circumscribed psychotic personality disturbance, psychotic test indicators were infrequent in the psychological tests, the Rorschach test 28%, and the object-sorting test 18% of the cases. The poorer test performances in the WAIS and the Stroop tests, and the preponderance of organic Rorschach test signs in the psychotic group indicate that organic cerebral damage is of etiological significance in paranoid epileptic psychosis.", "PMID": 433572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1633", "title": "Effects of early neurological problems following head trauma on subsequent neuropsychological performance.", "content": "Early neurological indicants based on information from the hospital admission clinical examination were studied in a group of patients who had sustained accident-incurred traumatic head injuries. Patients who had been hospitalized during the 3-year period just preceding the study were recalled and a battery of neuropsychological tests was administered. Early neurological problems were found to have a detrimental effect on subsequent test performance. The results supported the use of these early indicants to make prognostic decisions.", "contents": "Effects of early neurological problems following head trauma on subsequent neuropsychological performance. Early neurological indicants based on information from the hospital admission clinical examination were studied in a group of patients who had sustained accident-incurred traumatic head injuries. Patients who had been hospitalized during the 3-year period just preceding the study were recalled and a battery of neuropsychological tests was administered. Early neurological problems were found to have a detrimental effect on subsequent test performance. The results supported the use of these early indicants to make prognostic decisions.", "PMID": 433573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1634", "title": "Diabetic polyneuropathy. Corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and Achilles tendon reflex in diabetics.", "content": "In a controlled study, corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception of the left index finger and great toe and achilles tendon reflex were examined in 100 diabetes patients and 100 controls. The result showed significantly reduced corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and increased number of areflexi in the diabetic group. Furthermore, the decrease of corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and presence of areflexi correlated well to one another and to age, duration of D. M. above 15 years and diabetic retinopathy. Significant intercorrelations suggest that a reduced corneal touch threshold forms part of a polyneuropathy in diabetes. A corneal hypesthesia cannot be considered a valuable index in screening a population for diabetes as previously has been suggested.", "contents": "Diabetic polyneuropathy. Corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and Achilles tendon reflex in diabetics. In a controlled study, corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception of the left index finger and great toe and achilles tendon reflex were examined in 100 diabetes patients and 100 controls. The result showed significantly reduced corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and increased number of areflexi in the diabetic group. Furthermore, the decrease of corneal sensitivity, vibratory perception and presence of areflexi correlated well to one another and to age, duration of D. M. above 15 years and diabetic retinopathy. Significant intercorrelations suggest that a reduced corneal touch threshold forms part of a polyneuropathy in diabetes. A corneal hypesthesia cannot be considered a valuable index in screening a population for diabetes as previously has been suggested.", "PMID": 433574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1635", "title": "Decremental conduction in a mammalian peripheral nerve.", "content": "Conduction velocities of the A-beta, A-delta and C-fibers in isolated vagal nerves were measured before, during, and after the nerve was exposed to sodium-deficient hypotonic solutions. The solution was kept at 23 degrees C. Recorded at a conduction distance of 18 mm and with the nerve in a 0.25% NaCl solution, the conduction velocity of the A-beta component in the response was found to decrease at an average rate of 1.07 m/s per min; of the A-delta, 0.35 m/s per min and of the C-fibers, 0.020 m/s per min. Thus, the A-delta component in the response would disappear in about 29 min; the C-component, in 49 min; and the A-beta component, in 54 min. Recorded at a distance of 36 mm, the decrease in conduction velocity of the A-beta was 1.40 m/s per min, of the A-delta, 0.43 m/s per min, and of the C-fibers, 0.023 m/s per min. Thus, recorded at this conduction distance, the A-delta would disappear in 20 min; the C-component, in 36 min; and the A-beta component, in 42 min. These findings indicate that when decremental conduction occurs in a mammalian peripheral nerve exposed to these solutions, the decrement is most apparent in the A-delta component, then the C-fiber component, and finally the A-beta component in the nerve. Similar observations were obtained in nerves exposed to 0.5% NaCl solution except that the rate of decrement was slower.", "contents": "Decremental conduction in a mammalian peripheral nerve. Conduction velocities of the A-beta, A-delta and C-fibers in isolated vagal nerves were measured before, during, and after the nerve was exposed to sodium-deficient hypotonic solutions. The solution was kept at 23 degrees C. Recorded at a conduction distance of 18 mm and with the nerve in a 0.25% NaCl solution, the conduction velocity of the A-beta component in the response was found to decrease at an average rate of 1.07 m/s per min; of the A-delta, 0.35 m/s per min and of the C-fibers, 0.020 m/s per min. Thus, the A-delta component in the response would disappear in about 29 min; the C-component, in 49 min; and the A-beta component, in 54 min. Recorded at a distance of 36 mm, the decrease in conduction velocity of the A-beta was 1.40 m/s per min, of the A-delta, 0.43 m/s per min, and of the C-fibers, 0.023 m/s per min. Thus, recorded at this conduction distance, the A-delta would disappear in 20 min; the C-component, in 36 min; and the A-beta component, in 42 min. These findings indicate that when decremental conduction occurs in a mammalian peripheral nerve exposed to these solutions, the decrement is most apparent in the A-delta component, then the C-fiber component, and finally the A-beta component in the nerve. Similar observations were obtained in nerves exposed to 0.5% NaCl solution except that the rate of decrement was slower.", "PMID": 433575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1636", "title": "Non-linear properties of diaphyseal bone. An experimental study on dogs.", "content": "The deformation of entire long bones from dogs has been studied in torsion. The load-deformation relationship is non-linear prior to ultimate failure and repeated successively increased loading and unloading in the non-linear range is found to reduce the stiffness of the bone. The non-linearity of the curve is assumed to be due to a change in the geometry of the bone originating from formation of small cracks in the cortex. The bone material of entire long bones from dogs seems to be linearly elastic for all torques.", "contents": "Non-linear properties of diaphyseal bone. An experimental study on dogs. The deformation of entire long bones from dogs has been studied in torsion. The load-deformation relationship is non-linear prior to ultimate failure and repeated successively increased loading and unloading in the non-linear range is found to reduce the stiffness of the bone. The non-linearity of the curve is assumed to be due to a change in the geometry of the bone originating from formation of small cracks in the cortex. The bone material of entire long bones from dogs seems to be linearly elastic for all torques.", "PMID": 433576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1637", "title": "Effect of chlorpromazine on skeletogenesis. The result of maternal administration of the drug in experimental rats.", "content": "Chlorpromazine hydrochloride (CPZ) is known to induce intrauterine and extrauterine growth retardation. A single dose of CPZ (100 mg/kg) was administered to pregnant CF rats on the 14th day of gestation (sperm positive=day 0). Fetuses were collected from the 16th to the 20th day of gestation and processed for alizarin red-S stain. Ossification was delayed by 1 to 3 days in the long bones of the extremities, by 1 day in the scapulae and by 2 to 3 days in the ilium. Ischium and pubis remained unossified until the 20th day of gestation. Ossification of the skull bones was also delayed as manifested by the presence of wide sutures in the treated cases. The number and range of ossified vertebral bodies and arches in the treated group were always less than those in the control group. The sternebrae were most affected. The ribs also showed a significant delay in maturity.", "contents": "Effect of chlorpromazine on skeletogenesis. The result of maternal administration of the drug in experimental rats. Chlorpromazine hydrochloride (CPZ) is known to induce intrauterine and extrauterine growth retardation. A single dose of CPZ (100 mg/kg) was administered to pregnant CF rats on the 14th day of gestation (sperm positive=day 0). Fetuses were collected from the 16th to the 20th day of gestation and processed for alizarin red-S stain. Ossification was delayed by 1 to 3 days in the long bones of the extremities, by 1 day in the scapulae and by 2 to 3 days in the ilium. Ischium and pubis remained unossified until the 20th day of gestation. Ossification of the skull bones was also delayed as manifested by the presence of wide sutures in the treated cases. The number and range of ossified vertebral bodies and arches in the treated group were always less than those in the control group. The sternebrae were most affected. The ribs also showed a significant delay in maturity.", "PMID": 433577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1638", "title": "Mortality after hip fractures.", "content": "A survey was made of 1592 patients, over the age of 50 years, who had sustained a fracture of the hip. The mean age was found to be 77 years, and 76.9 per cent (1224/1592) of the patients were women. Trochanteric fractures accounted for 52.5 per cent (836/1592) of the cases and these patients had a higher mean age than those with femoral neck fractures. The average hospitalization time was 24 days and the mortality during the hospital stay was 8.6 per cent (137/1592). Statistical analysis revealed that the hospital mortality rate was related exclusively to the age and the sex. The mortality after 3 months was 17 per cent and that after 6 months 21.5 per cent. The survival rates paralleled the expected rate after 1.6 years but were found to be higher than expected after 2.8 years. The mortality after 1 year was 27 per cent, after 3 years 43 per cent and after 5 years 56 per cent.", "contents": "Mortality after hip fractures. A survey was made of 1592 patients, over the age of 50 years, who had sustained a fracture of the hip. The mean age was found to be 77 years, and 76.9 per cent (1224/1592) of the patients were women. Trochanteric fractures accounted for 52.5 per cent (836/1592) of the cases and these patients had a higher mean age than those with femoral neck fractures. The average hospitalization time was 24 days and the mortality during the hospital stay was 8.6 per cent (137/1592). Statistical analysis revealed that the hospital mortality rate was related exclusively to the age and the sex. The mortality after 3 months was 17 per cent and that after 6 months 21.5 per cent. The survival rates paralleled the expected rate after 1.6 years but were found to be higher than expected after 2.8 years. The mortality after 1 year was 27 per cent, after 3 years 43 per cent and after 5 years 56 per cent.", "PMID": 433578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1639", "title": "Indomethacin treatment in osteoarthritis of the hip joint. Does the treatment interfere with the natural course of the disease?", "content": "The course of osteoarthritis in 294 hips of 186 patients was evaluated by examining their radiographs. The development of the disease in patients treated with indomethacin was compared with that in a control material. In the indomethacin group the disease progressed more frequently and in one parameter the progress was more severe. The results support previous reports indicating that indomethacin might have a deleterious effect on osteoarthritic hip joints. Some possible explanations for this adverse effect of indomethacin treatment are discussed.", "contents": "Indomethacin treatment in osteoarthritis of the hip joint. Does the treatment interfere with the natural course of the disease? The course of osteoarthritis in 294 hips of 186 patients was evaluated by examining their radiographs. The development of the disease in patients treated with indomethacin was compared with that in a control material. In the indomethacin group the disease progressed more frequently and in one parameter the progress was more severe. The results support previous reports indicating that indomethacin might have a deleterious effect on osteoarthritic hip joints. Some possible explanations for this adverse effect of indomethacin treatment are discussed.", "PMID": 433579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1640", "title": "Thromboembolic complications following scoliosis surgery in Scandinavia.", "content": "Out of 1229 patients operated on according to Harrington there were eight with clinical deep venous thrombosis (DVT) confirmed by phlebography or at autopsy. One patient died from massive pulmonary embolism. All eight DVT were located proximally on the left side. In two cases the first symptom was abdominal pain. At follow-up two patients had slight complaints. One had edema in hot weather and one swelling of the left leg. Another patient had no complaints but venography showed pathological collateral veins. There may be a considerable risk of development of a postthrombotic syndrome.", "contents": "Thromboembolic complications following scoliosis surgery in Scandinavia. Out of 1229 patients operated on according to Harrington there were eight with clinical deep venous thrombosis (DVT) confirmed by phlebography or at autopsy. One patient died from massive pulmonary embolism. All eight DVT were located proximally on the left side. In two cases the first symptom was abdominal pain. At follow-up two patients had slight complaints. One had edema in hot weather and one swelling of the left leg. Another patient had no complaints but venography showed pathological collateral veins. There may be a considerable risk of development of a postthrombotic syndrome.", "PMID": 433580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1641", "title": "Bone mass in primary coxarthrosis.", "content": "The bone mineral content was measured by gamma absorptiometry at two levels on the forearms, proximally on the shafts and distally close to the wrist, in 53 cases of primary coxarthrosis. The bone mineral content at the distal measuring site, representing trabecular bone, was increased in coxarthrosis cases as compared with normal controls; the difference was significant only in women. At the proximal measuring site, representing cortical bone, there was no significant difference. The findings support the concept of impairment of the resilience of the juxta-articular trabecular bone as one factor contributing to the pathogenesis of arthrosis.", "contents": "Bone mass in primary coxarthrosis. The bone mineral content was measured by gamma absorptiometry at two levels on the forearms, proximally on the shafts and distally close to the wrist, in 53 cases of primary coxarthrosis. The bone mineral content at the distal measuring site, representing trabecular bone, was increased in coxarthrosis cases as compared with normal controls; the difference was significant only in women. At the proximal measuring site, representing cortical bone, there was no significant difference. The findings support the concept of impairment of the resilience of the juxta-articular trabecular bone as one factor contributing to the pathogenesis of arthrosis.", "PMID": 433581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1642", "title": "Containment of the femoral head in Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes' disease and its prognostic significance.", "content": "The treatment of LCPD employs to an increasing degree the containment principle, in the form of femoral osteotomy, based on the hypothesis that the factor decisive for the prognosis is centralization of the femoral head, and not relief of weight-bearing by the hip. A follow-up of 48 unilateral LCPD hips treated by strict bed-rest showed a poor correlation (best value r=-0.385) between the degree of lateralization of the femoral head (the migration percentage) during the course of the disease and the spherical quotient at follow-up 12.6 years after the onset of the disease. The results reported, such as shortening of the fragmentation phase and a not unequivocally good outcome of intertrochanteric femoral osteotomy in hips \"at risk\", may therefore not be due to the containment principle, but perhaps to an improved venous drainage from the femoral head.", "contents": "Containment of the femoral head in Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes' disease and its prognostic significance. The treatment of LCPD employs to an increasing degree the containment principle, in the form of femoral osteotomy, based on the hypothesis that the factor decisive for the prognosis is centralization of the femoral head, and not relief of weight-bearing by the hip. A follow-up of 48 unilateral LCPD hips treated by strict bed-rest showed a poor correlation (best value r=-0.385) between the degree of lateralization of the femoral head (the migration percentage) during the course of the disease and the spherical quotient at follow-up 12.6 years after the onset of the disease. The results reported, such as shortening of the fragmentation phase and a not unequivocally good outcome of intertrochanteric femoral osteotomy in hips \"at risk\", may therefore not be due to the containment principle, but perhaps to an improved venous drainage from the femoral head.", "PMID": 433582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1643", "title": "Total hip replacement in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Analysis of 59 hips.", "content": "The results of 59 Charnley low friction arthroplasties in 41 patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are presented. Mean follow-up was 30 months and mean age at operation 30.5 years. At review 90 per cent had an excellent result and 10 per cent a good result as regards pain relief. Mobility was significantly improved in all but two patients. These two patients developed severe ectopic bone formation. With few exceptions, the results remained constant after 6 months. Intraoperative complications were the most common. Careful selection of patients, advance planning of surgery and appreciation of the developmental abnormalities in these hips are essential features in avoiding complications and achieving a good result.", "contents": "Total hip replacement in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Analysis of 59 hips. The results of 59 Charnley low friction arthroplasties in 41 patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are presented. Mean follow-up was 30 months and mean age at operation 30.5 years. At review 90 per cent had an excellent result and 10 per cent a good result as regards pain relief. Mobility was significantly improved in all but two patients. These two patients developed severe ectopic bone formation. With few exceptions, the results remained constant after 6 months. Intraoperative complications were the most common. Careful selection of patients, advance planning of surgery and appreciation of the developmental abnormalities in these hips are essential features in avoiding complications and achieving a good result.", "PMID": 433583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1644", "title": "Total hip replacement with a trunnion bearing prosthesis. Biomechanical principles and preliminary clinical results.", "content": "The biomechanics are presented of a bushing principle forming the basis for a trunnion bearing prosthesis in total hip replacement. The femoral stem is equipped with a trunnion on to which a cylindrical plastic sleeve is applied. On top of this a metal casing is placed which forms the femoral head. On flexion-extension this remains stationary in the acetabular cup and motion occurs between the trunnion and the cylindrical sleeve. Friction between head and cup is reduced to a minimum, decreasing the risk of loosening. A follow-up study of 61 hips replaced by the trunnion bearing prosthesis was performed 2.5 years postoperatively. Eighty-eight per cent were considerably improved. There was one deep infection and two femoral stem loosenings.", "contents": "Total hip replacement with a trunnion bearing prosthesis. Biomechanical principles and preliminary clinical results. The biomechanics are presented of a bushing principle forming the basis for a trunnion bearing prosthesis in total hip replacement. The femoral stem is equipped with a trunnion on to which a cylindrical plastic sleeve is applied. On top of this a metal casing is placed which forms the femoral head. On flexion-extension this remains stationary in the acetabular cup and motion occurs between the trunnion and the cylindrical sleeve. Friction between head and cup is reduced to a minimum, decreasing the risk of loosening. A follow-up study of 61 hips replaced by the trunnion bearing prosthesis was performed 2.5 years postoperatively. Eighty-eight per cent were considerably improved. There was one deep infection and two femoral stem loosenings.", "PMID": 433584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1645", "title": "Fracture-suspending effect of the patellar-tendon-bearing cast.", "content": "In order to evaluate the fracture-suspending effect of the patellar-tendon-bearing cast, experiments using a load cell under the heel were carried out on four subjects. Measurements were made using a conventional below-knee cast, the PTB cast, and an above-knee cast. There were no differences between the forces transmitted by the same subject wearing the three types of casts in turn and consequently the choice of cast must be based on other factors.", "contents": "Fracture-suspending effect of the patellar-tendon-bearing cast. In order to evaluate the fracture-suspending effect of the patellar-tendon-bearing cast, experiments using a load cell under the heel were carried out on four subjects. Measurements were made using a conventional below-knee cast, the PTB cast, and an above-knee cast. There were no differences between the forces transmitted by the same subject wearing the three types of casts in turn and consequently the choice of cast must be based on other factors.", "PMID": 433585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1646", "title": "Morphological studies of the spleen in idiopathic portal hypertension (so-called Banti's syndrome without liver cirrhosis) using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and histometry.", "content": "Morphological changes in the spleens of patients with idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) were studied and compared with the normal spleen. The study used (1) light microscopy with histometry, (2) scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the splenic tissue with histometry and (3) SEM of the spleen vascular replica. Histometrical studies by light microscopy showed that the volume of red pulp of IPH was increased in a unit area and to a total of 12 times the normal in the whole spleen. The white pulp was scanty of lymphocytes and decreased in a unit area but it was increased in the whole spleen. SEM of the white pulp of IPH demonstrated many channels formed by reticulum cells and running parallel with each other along the central artery. This finding presumably corresponds to periarterial fibrosis in light microscopy. SEM histometry demonstrated that the venous sinuses of IPH were small but increased in number and occupied the same percentage area in a unit red pulp area as in the normal spleen. The Billroth cord of IPH was narrowed and occupied by thickened reticulum cells, which may cause increased pooling and destruction of blood cells in the enlarged spleen (hypersplenism). SEM of the tissue and vascular replica demonstrated open arterial termination in the Billroth cord in the spleen of IPH as well as in the normal spleen. Venous sinuses in the replica of IPH ran parallel with each other forming bundles with fewer intercommunications than normal.", "contents": "Morphological studies of the spleen in idiopathic portal hypertension (so-called Banti's syndrome without liver cirrhosis) using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and histometry. Morphological changes in the spleens of patients with idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) were studied and compared with the normal spleen. The study used (1) light microscopy with histometry, (2) scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the splenic tissue with histometry and (3) SEM of the spleen vascular replica. Histometrical studies by light microscopy showed that the volume of red pulp of IPH was increased in a unit area and to a total of 12 times the normal in the whole spleen. The white pulp was scanty of lymphocytes and decreased in a unit area but it was increased in the whole spleen. SEM of the white pulp of IPH demonstrated many channels formed by reticulum cells and running parallel with each other along the central artery. This finding presumably corresponds to periarterial fibrosis in light microscopy. SEM histometry demonstrated that the venous sinuses of IPH were small but increased in number and occupied the same percentage area in a unit red pulp area as in the normal spleen. The Billroth cord of IPH was narrowed and occupied by thickened reticulum cells, which may cause increased pooling and destruction of blood cells in the enlarged spleen (hypersplenism). SEM of the tissue and vascular replica demonstrated open arterial termination in the Billroth cord in the spleen of IPH as well as in the normal spleen. Venous sinuses in the replica of IPH ran parallel with each other forming bundles with fewer intercommunications than normal.", "PMID": 433586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1647", "title": "Malignant teratoma of the thyroid gland in an adolescent female.", "content": "Malignant teratoma of the thyroid gland was found in a 19-year-old female. She was given a combined surgical and irradiation treatment. The tumor was 5.0X4.0X3.6 cm and located in the lower right lobe of the thyroid gland. Light and electron microscopical examination revealed mature or immature derivatives of the three primordial germ layers. The dominant portion of the tumor was composed of numerous masses of cancerous epithelial cells, which were distributed randomly in the mesenchymal tissue. Tumor cells invaded and replaced the surrounding thyroid tissue with occasional tumor thrombi in the lumens of blood vessels. No metastatic tumor was found in the lymph nodes. The patient was given a course of external irradiation, a total dose of 4000 rads, to the right thyroid area. Eight months after surgery, she is well and without any evidence of recurrence or metastasis.", "contents": "Malignant teratoma of the thyroid gland in an adolescent female. Malignant teratoma of the thyroid gland was found in a 19-year-old female. She was given a combined surgical and irradiation treatment. The tumor was 5.0X4.0X3.6 cm and located in the lower right lobe of the thyroid gland. Light and electron microscopical examination revealed mature or immature derivatives of the three primordial germ layers. The dominant portion of the tumor was composed of numerous masses of cancerous epithelial cells, which were distributed randomly in the mesenchymal tissue. Tumor cells invaded and replaced the surrounding thyroid tissue with occasional tumor thrombi in the lumens of blood vessels. No metastatic tumor was found in the lymph nodes. The patient was given a course of external irradiation, a total dose of 4000 rads, to the right thyroid area. Eight months after surgery, she is well and without any evidence of recurrence or metastasis.", "PMID": 433587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1648", "title": "Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid gland. An ultrastructural study on four cases.", "content": "Four cases of anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid, composed of one small cell carcinoma and three giant cell carcinomas, were studied with electron microscope. In the case of small cell carcinoma, fine cytoplasmic interdigitations and junctional complex between apposing cytoplasmic membranes of neighbouring tumor cells and a few microlumina within tumor cell clusters surrounded by well-defined basal lamina were seen. In the cases of giant cell carcinoma, occasional cytoplasmic interdigitations as well as desmosomal structures were detected even in tumor cells markedly pleomorphic and anaplastic. Abundant cytoplasmic organelles including profiles of Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum and a few mitochondria were seen in the cytoplasm of tumor cell of all four cases. Of interest to note was that all giant cell carcinomas demonstrated evidences of fairly well differentiated tumor within anaplastic carcinoma, indicating probable pre-existing either benign or malignant epithelial neoplasm more differentiated, with its subsequent anaplastic transformation. Findings in the present study support an assumption that these anaplastic tumors are derived from the follicular epithelium of the thyroid gland. In addition, it can be said that tumor cells of the small cell carcinoma provide evidences suggesting functional differentiation of carcinoma cells to a certain extent, yet unable to produce thyroglobulin.", "contents": "Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid gland. An ultrastructural study on four cases. Four cases of anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid, composed of one small cell carcinoma and three giant cell carcinomas, were studied with electron microscope. In the case of small cell carcinoma, fine cytoplasmic interdigitations and junctional complex between apposing cytoplasmic membranes of neighbouring tumor cells and a few microlumina within tumor cell clusters surrounded by well-defined basal lamina were seen. In the cases of giant cell carcinoma, occasional cytoplasmic interdigitations as well as desmosomal structures were detected even in tumor cells markedly pleomorphic and anaplastic. Abundant cytoplasmic organelles including profiles of Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum and a few mitochondria were seen in the cytoplasm of tumor cell of all four cases. Of interest to note was that all giant cell carcinomas demonstrated evidences of fairly well differentiated tumor within anaplastic carcinoma, indicating probable pre-existing either benign or malignant epithelial neoplasm more differentiated, with its subsequent anaplastic transformation. Findings in the present study support an assumption that these anaplastic tumors are derived from the follicular epithelium of the thyroid gland. In addition, it can be said that tumor cells of the small cell carcinoma provide evidences suggesting functional differentiation of carcinoma cells to a certain extent, yet unable to produce thyroglobulin.", "PMID": 433588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1649", "title": "Primary systemic amyloidosis. A case permitting pathological and biochemical investigations.", "content": "In this 72-year-old male patient, large amounts of amyloid substances were deposited in the mesenchymal organs, but not in the parenchymal organs. Histochemical and electron microscopic studies revealed large amounts of amyloid substances and amyloid fibrils in the skeletal and smooth muscle tissues. In the skeletal muscle tissues, where large amounts of amyloid substances were deposited, glycosaminoglycan was also markedly deposited, especially chondroitin-4-sulfuric acid. The concentrations of silicon were also markedly increased in the amyloid fibrils. The concentrations of nickel and cobalt were increased but those of zinc were decreased in all organs measured, although both nickel and cobalt in another case of amyloidosis experienced were within normal values.", "contents": "Primary systemic amyloidosis. A case permitting pathological and biochemical investigations. In this 72-year-old male patient, large amounts of amyloid substances were deposited in the mesenchymal organs, but not in the parenchymal organs. Histochemical and electron microscopic studies revealed large amounts of amyloid substances and amyloid fibrils in the skeletal and smooth muscle tissues. In the skeletal muscle tissues, where large amounts of amyloid substances were deposited, glycosaminoglycan was also markedly deposited, especially chondroitin-4-sulfuric acid. The concentrations of silicon were also markedly increased in the amyloid fibrils. The concentrations of nickel and cobalt were increased but those of zinc were decreased in all organs measured, although both nickel and cobalt in another case of amyloidosis experienced were within normal values.", "PMID": 433589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1650", "title": "Establishment of a new human chondrosarcomatous cell line.", "content": "A new cultured cell line (HuOS) was established from tumor cells obtained from the pulmonary metastatic foci of a patient diagnosed as chondroblastic osteosarcoma. The tumor cell line was maintained for over 19 months, and morphological and biological characteristics were studied. These cells retained their malignant properties and produced nodules when transferred intramuscularly to nude mice. Morphologically, these nodules revealed a chondromatous pattern.", "contents": "Establishment of a new human chondrosarcomatous cell line. A new cultured cell line (HuOS) was established from tumor cells obtained from the pulmonary metastatic foci of a patient diagnosed as chondroblastic osteosarcoma. The tumor cell line was maintained for over 19 months, and morphological and biological characteristics were studied. These cells retained their malignant properties and produced nodules when transferred intramuscularly to nude mice. Morphologically, these nodules revealed a chondromatous pattern.", "PMID": 433590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1651", "title": "Quantitative evaluation of hypertensive pulmonary arterial change.", "content": "A new method to quantitatively evaluate pulmonary arterial change in pulmonary hypertension is presented in this paper. Hypertensive pulmonary arterial changes are classified into four grades according to severity and a score from 1 to 4 is given to each arterial change according to the grading. An index of pulmonary vascular disease is then defined as a relative mean value of all scores. It is concluded that this index accurately expresses the grade of pulmonary arterial change in the whole pulmonary arterial system in any given case and makes possible a detailed statistical analysis of large numbers of cases.", "contents": "Quantitative evaluation of hypertensive pulmonary arterial change. A new method to quantitatively evaluate pulmonary arterial change in pulmonary hypertension is presented in this paper. Hypertensive pulmonary arterial changes are classified into four grades according to severity and a score from 1 to 4 is given to each arterial change according to the grading. An index of pulmonary vascular disease is then defined as a relative mean value of all scores. It is concluded that this index accurately expresses the grade of pulmonary arterial change in the whole pulmonary arterial system in any given case and makes possible a detailed statistical analysis of large numbers of cases.", "PMID": 433591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1652", "title": "Beckwith-Wiedemann's syndrome--a report of an autopsied case--.", "content": "The case presented here is a three-month-old male infant with the Beckwith-Wiedemann's syndrome. Clinically, the patient was characterized by macroglossia, visceromegaly, umbilical hernia, microcephalus and other multiple malformations such as facial flame nevus or ear lobe grooves. The patient died of bronchopneumonia at the age of three months, and an autopsy was performed. Morphological examination revealed adrenal cytomegaly, hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the pancreatic islets, adrenal rest tissue in the right testis or hypertrophy of muscle fibers of the tongue associated with fibrous degenerative change, in addition to bronchopneumonia of the lung, causing his death. On electron microscopical examination, the cytomegalic cell of the adrenal was characteristic of large pleomorphic nucleus and granular substances with high density in the cytoplasm. In this case, thorough histologic search revealed no evidence of tumorous growth in the organs, though the exomphalos-macroglossia-gigantism syndrome has been of interest in its relationship to the occasional occurrence of Wilms tumor, adrenal carcinoma or other tumors.", "contents": "Beckwith-Wiedemann's syndrome--a report of an autopsied case--. The case presented here is a three-month-old male infant with the Beckwith-Wiedemann's syndrome. Clinically, the patient was characterized by macroglossia, visceromegaly, umbilical hernia, microcephalus and other multiple malformations such as facial flame nevus or ear lobe grooves. The patient died of bronchopneumonia at the age of three months, and an autopsy was performed. Morphological examination revealed adrenal cytomegaly, hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the pancreatic islets, adrenal rest tissue in the right testis or hypertrophy of muscle fibers of the tongue associated with fibrous degenerative change, in addition to bronchopneumonia of the lung, causing his death. On electron microscopical examination, the cytomegalic cell of the adrenal was characteristic of large pleomorphic nucleus and granular substances with high density in the cytoplasm. In this case, thorough histologic search revealed no evidence of tumorous growth in the organs, though the exomphalos-macroglossia-gigantism syndrome has been of interest in its relationship to the occasional occurrence of Wilms tumor, adrenal carcinoma or other tumors.", "PMID": 433592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1653", "title": "The ultrastructure of liposarcoma. A study of 10 cases.", "content": "An ultrastructural study of 10 liposarcomas is reported. Four of the liposarcomas were wholly or predominantly of well-differentiated, lipoma-like or fibrosing type, 3 of myxoid type, 2 of round cell type and 1 pleomorphic type. The well-differentiated, lipoma-like liposarcomas showed cells with a few, large lipid droplets, few organelles and a peripherally located, fairly large nucleus, The well-differentiated liposarcomas of fibrosing type revealed mostly spindle-shaped, fibroblast-like cells, with abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and inconspicuous lipid inclusions, surrounded by collagen. One well-differentiated liposarcoma contained an area which was similar to brown adipose tissue and hibernoma. The spindle and stellate shaped cells of the myxoid liposarcomas showed abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and large smooth-membraned vacuoles filled with moderately dense amorphous material, which appeared to be extruded extracellularly by rupture of the vacuoles. Cytoplasmic lipid droplets were seen in most cells but were much less prominent than in the well-differentiated lipoma-like liposarcomas. Ultrastructurally there were many similarities between the myxoid and round cell liposarcoma, indicating a close relationship between the two types. The pleomorphic liposarcoma revealed cells with one or more large, irregular nuclei, numerous large vacuoles after dissolved lipids, abundant dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum and rounded, electron-dense bodies corresponding to PAS-positive hyalin globules seen in the light microscope. The ultrastructural study suggests that the variegated cellular appearance of the different subtypes of liposarcoma reflects the wide cellular spectrum seen during the differentiation of adipose tissue and supports the view that all liposarcomas histogenetically represent a single entity.", "contents": "The ultrastructure of liposarcoma. A study of 10 cases. An ultrastructural study of 10 liposarcomas is reported. Four of the liposarcomas were wholly or predominantly of well-differentiated, lipoma-like or fibrosing type, 3 of myxoid type, 2 of round cell type and 1 pleomorphic type. The well-differentiated, lipoma-like liposarcomas showed cells with a few, large lipid droplets, few organelles and a peripherally located, fairly large nucleus, The well-differentiated liposarcomas of fibrosing type revealed mostly spindle-shaped, fibroblast-like cells, with abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and inconspicuous lipid inclusions, surrounded by collagen. One well-differentiated liposarcoma contained an area which was similar to brown adipose tissue and hibernoma. The spindle and stellate shaped cells of the myxoid liposarcomas showed abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and large smooth-membraned vacuoles filled with moderately dense amorphous material, which appeared to be extruded extracellularly by rupture of the vacuoles. Cytoplasmic lipid droplets were seen in most cells but were much less prominent than in the well-differentiated lipoma-like liposarcomas. Ultrastructurally there were many similarities between the myxoid and round cell liposarcoma, indicating a close relationship between the two types. The pleomorphic liposarcoma revealed cells with one or more large, irregular nuclei, numerous large vacuoles after dissolved lipids, abundant dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum and rounded, electron-dense bodies corresponding to PAS-positive hyalin globules seen in the light microscope. The ultrastructural study suggests that the variegated cellular appearance of the different subtypes of liposarcoma reflects the wide cellular spectrum seen during the differentiation of adipose tissue and supports the view that all liposarcomas histogenetically represent a single entity.", "PMID": 433593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1654", "title": "Focal endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta, aggravation of injury by 2 days of cholesterol feeding.", "content": "A randomized morphometric study of \"spontaneous\" endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta was performed blindly. Four different areas of the aorta were sampled in a standardized fashion and examined by scanning electron microscopy. The finding of protruding endothelial cells was taken as sign of injury. The endothelial cell injury was focal and, in the sampled areas, particularly prevalent in the distal part of the lesser curvature of the aortic arch and the distal lip of intercostal artery orifices. In the area between two intercostal artery orifices on the same side of the midline injured cells were only exceptionally found. Rabbits fed a 2% cholesterol diet for 2 days showed an increase in protruding cells, particularly at the intercostal artery orifices. It is concluded that the endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta may be caused by local factors, determining the focal nature, and by systemic factors, such as acute hypercholesterolemia.", "contents": "Focal endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta, aggravation of injury by 2 days of cholesterol feeding. A randomized morphometric study of \"spontaneous\" endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta was performed blindly. Four different areas of the aorta were sampled in a standardized fashion and examined by scanning electron microscopy. The finding of protruding endothelial cells was taken as sign of injury. The endothelial cell injury was focal and, in the sampled areas, particularly prevalent in the distal part of the lesser curvature of the aortic arch and the distal lip of intercostal artery orifices. In the area between two intercostal artery orifices on the same side of the midline injured cells were only exceptionally found. Rabbits fed a 2% cholesterol diet for 2 days showed an increase in protruding cells, particularly at the intercostal artery orifices. It is concluded that the endothelial cell injury in rabbit aorta may be caused by local factors, determining the focal nature, and by systemic factors, such as acute hypercholesterolemia.", "PMID": 433594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1655", "title": "A retrospective histological study of 669 cases of primary cutaneous malignant melanoma in clinical stage I. 4. The relation of cross-sectional profile, level of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion to tumour type and prognosis.", "content": "A selected series of 669 primary cutaneous malignant melanomas, stage I, was studied. The series includes 86 lentigo maligna melanomas, 259 superficial spreading malignant melanomas, 194 nodular malignant melanomas and 130 unclassifiable malignant melanomas. The cross-sectional profile, level of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion were graded. The relation of these features to each other and to tumour type was studied by X2 tests. The prognostic value was also studied. The most common finding was a slightly elevated surface, level III of invasion, no ulceration and no vascular invasion. Most of these tumours were superficial spreading malignant melanomas. A good prognosis was associated with a flat cross-sectional profile, level II of invasion, no ulceration and no vascular invasion. A poor prognosis was associated with marked protrusion of the surface, level IV--V of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion. Lentigo maligna melanomas tended to be more benign while nodular malignant melanomas tended to be more malignant than the average. A superficial spreading malignant melanoma could vary in either direction. The prognostic value of level of invasion and ulceration was found to be greater than that of tumour type. The prognostic importance of invasion no further than level III is stressed. Level of invasion ought to be reported to the clinician as well as the tumour type.", "contents": "A retrospective histological study of 669 cases of primary cutaneous malignant melanoma in clinical stage I. 4. The relation of cross-sectional profile, level of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion to tumour type and prognosis. A selected series of 669 primary cutaneous malignant melanomas, stage I, was studied. The series includes 86 lentigo maligna melanomas, 259 superficial spreading malignant melanomas, 194 nodular malignant melanomas and 130 unclassifiable malignant melanomas. The cross-sectional profile, level of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion were graded. The relation of these features to each other and to tumour type was studied by X2 tests. The prognostic value was also studied. The most common finding was a slightly elevated surface, level III of invasion, no ulceration and no vascular invasion. Most of these tumours were superficial spreading malignant melanomas. A good prognosis was associated with a flat cross-sectional profile, level II of invasion, no ulceration and no vascular invasion. A poor prognosis was associated with marked protrusion of the surface, level IV--V of invasion, ulceration and vascular invasion. Lentigo maligna melanomas tended to be more benign while nodular malignant melanomas tended to be more malignant than the average. A superficial spreading malignant melanoma could vary in either direction. The prognostic value of level of invasion and ulceration was found to be greater than that of tumour type. The prognostic importance of invasion no further than level III is stressed. Level of invasion ought to be reported to the clinician as well as the tumour type.", "PMID": 433595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1656", "title": "Histological changes in testicular biopsies from chronic alcoholics with and without liver disease.", "content": "Testicular and liver biopsies were obtained from thirty consecutive patients at the age of 30 and 64 years with chronic alcoholism (daily consumption of 72 g of alcohol or more for at least five years). The spermatogenesis was normal in 12 patients (40 per cent), moderately reduced in 15 patients (50 per cent) and severely reduced in 3 patients (10 per cent). No relation between the presence of liver disease as assessed by histological examination of the liver biopsy and the impairment in the spermatogenesis could be demonstrated.", "contents": "Histological changes in testicular biopsies from chronic alcoholics with and without liver disease. Testicular and liver biopsies were obtained from thirty consecutive patients at the age of 30 and 64 years with chronic alcoholism (daily consumption of 72 g of alcohol or more for at least five years). The spermatogenesis was normal in 12 patients (40 per cent), moderately reduced in 15 patients (50 per cent) and severely reduced in 3 patients (10 per cent). No relation between the presence of liver disease as assessed by histological examination of the liver biopsy and the impairment in the spermatogenesis could be demonstrated.", "PMID": 433596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1657", "title": "Ascites tumors in CBA mice. 2. Ultrastructural aspects on ascites conversion.", "content": "We have studied four syngeneic murine tumors, a fibrosarcoma, a squamous cell carcinoma and their two ascites-converted counterparts, by transmission electron microscopy. The ascites tumors were investigated both as cell suspensions (AA-tumor) and as solid tumor (AS-tumor). We have also studied the ascites tumors, enzymatically produced cell suspensions of the AS-tumors and solid original tumors by scanning electron microscopy. The two ascites tumors are totally de-differentiated and lack intercellular junctions. This, we think, is a prerequisite for ascites growth. But the ascites tumors show no peculiar ultrastructural features in comparison with other undifferentiated malignant tumors. We found no morphological cell alternations by the enzymatical dissociation procedure used to bring the solid tumors into suspension. Differences between the AS and AA tumors can be ascribed to differences in proliferation rates.", "contents": "Ascites tumors in CBA mice. 2. Ultrastructural aspects on ascites conversion. We have studied four syngeneic murine tumors, a fibrosarcoma, a squamous cell carcinoma and their two ascites-converted counterparts, by transmission electron microscopy. The ascites tumors were investigated both as cell suspensions (AA-tumor) and as solid tumor (AS-tumor). We have also studied the ascites tumors, enzymatically produced cell suspensions of the AS-tumors and solid original tumors by scanning electron microscopy. The two ascites tumors are totally de-differentiated and lack intercellular junctions. This, we think, is a prerequisite for ascites growth. But the ascites tumors show no peculiar ultrastructural features in comparison with other undifferentiated malignant tumors. We found no morphological cell alternations by the enzymatical dissociation procedure used to bring the solid tumors into suspension. Differences between the AS and AA tumors can be ascribed to differences in proliferation rates.", "PMID": 433597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1658", "title": "The influence of specific antisera and unheated guinea pig serum on the pathogenicity of \"Runde\" virus for mice.", "content": "Antisera from various animal species containing antibodies to \"Runde\" virus were not able to neutralize virus infection in newborn mice, the outcome of which is an acute, fatal CNS disease. There was, however, one noticeable exception. Mixtures of virus and hyperimmune mouse serum or ascitic fluid inoculated intracerebrally into newborn mice resulted in a persistent infection and a chronic disease which had previously only been recognized in 2 to 3-week-old mice inoculated with \"Runde\" virus. A serum pool from persistently infected mice had the same effect, though this was less pronounced. The addition of unheated guinea pig serum to the virus-hyperimmune serum mixtures reinforced the tendency to persistence and chronic disease, and unheated guinea pig serum alone modified the infection in the same way. The results suggest an immunological basis for the virus persistence and chronic disease in suckling mice.", "contents": "The influence of specific antisera and unheated guinea pig serum on the pathogenicity of \"Runde\" virus for mice. Antisera from various animal species containing antibodies to \"Runde\" virus were not able to neutralize virus infection in newborn mice, the outcome of which is an acute, fatal CNS disease. There was, however, one noticeable exception. Mixtures of virus and hyperimmune mouse serum or ascitic fluid inoculated intracerebrally into newborn mice resulted in a persistent infection and a chronic disease which had previously only been recognized in 2 to 3-week-old mice inoculated with \"Runde\" virus. A serum pool from persistently infected mice had the same effect, though this was less pronounced. The addition of unheated guinea pig serum to the virus-hyperimmune serum mixtures reinforced the tendency to persistence and chronic disease, and unheated guinea pig serum alone modified the infection in the same way. The results suggest an immunological basis for the virus persistence and chronic disease in suckling mice.", "PMID": 433598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1659", "title": "Electron microscopical study of antibody binding to Mycoplasma gallisepticum: indirect immunoferritin labelling.", "content": "The ultrastructural aspects of the interaction of Mycoplasma gallisepticum with specific rabbit antibody have been studied. In particular, fixation conditions which allow the simultaneous preservation of cellular fine structure and membrane antigenicity have been established and applied in a procedure of indirect immunological labelling of the antibody-coated organisms with ferritin conjugated sheep anti-rabbit IgG. The advantages of working with agar embedded organisms in a multistep labelling procedure are discussed. In membrane fractions of M. gallisepticum, prepared by osmolysis and freeze-thawing, only sealed membranes retained their antibody-binding capacity. Electron microscopical examination of \"break-through\" colonies from immune growth inhibition zones revealed that the majority of cells in these colonies were destroyed, sometimes limited only by a single-layered membrane and without extracellular antibody coat. An exception from this was the presumedly young cells in the periphery of colonies and in microcolonies which appeared to be intact and had a heavy antibody layer surrounding the cells. Based on these characteristics, a possible sequence of events is suggested eventually leading to destruction of mycoplasma organisms in immune growth inhibition zones.", "contents": "Electron microscopical study of antibody binding to Mycoplasma gallisepticum: indirect immunoferritin labelling. The ultrastructural aspects of the interaction of Mycoplasma gallisepticum with specific rabbit antibody have been studied. In particular, fixation conditions which allow the simultaneous preservation of cellular fine structure and membrane antigenicity have been established and applied in a procedure of indirect immunological labelling of the antibody-coated organisms with ferritin conjugated sheep anti-rabbit IgG. The advantages of working with agar embedded organisms in a multistep labelling procedure are discussed. In membrane fractions of M. gallisepticum, prepared by osmolysis and freeze-thawing, only sealed membranes retained their antibody-binding capacity. Electron microscopical examination of \"break-through\" colonies from immune growth inhibition zones revealed that the majority of cells in these colonies were destroyed, sometimes limited only by a single-layered membrane and without extracellular antibody coat. An exception from this was the presumedly young cells in the periphery of colonies and in microcolonies which appeared to be intact and had a heavy antibody layer surrounding the cells. Based on these characteristics, a possible sequence of events is suggested eventually leading to destruction of mycoplasma organisms in immune growth inhibition zones.", "PMID": 433599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1660", "title": "Trisodium phosphonoformate inhibits hepatitis B Dane particle DNA polymerase.", "content": "Evidence available indicates that the so-called Dane particles are the hepatitis virus. A DNA polymerase is associated with the core of these particles. The probability that this is the viral DNA polymerase offers the possibility of preventing hepatitis B multiplication by selective inhibition of this enzyme. This investigation reports that trisodium phosphonoformate (PFA) at low concentrations but not phosphonoacetate acid (PAA) inhitits Dane particle associated DNA polymerase.", "contents": "Trisodium phosphonoformate inhibits hepatitis B Dane particle DNA polymerase. Evidence available indicates that the so-called Dane particles are the hepatitis virus. A DNA polymerase is associated with the core of these particles. The probability that this is the viral DNA polymerase offers the possibility of preventing hepatitis B multiplication by selective inhibition of this enzyme. This investigation reports that trisodium phosphonoformate (PFA) at low concentrations but not phosphonoacetate acid (PAA) inhitits Dane particle associated DNA polymerase.", "PMID": 433600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1661", "title": "Activated complement in the sputum from patients with cystic fibrosis.", "content": "14 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients chronically infected with mucoid P. aeruginosa and presenting multiple precipitins in serum against this bacterium (CF + P) and 13 CF patients without P. aeruginosa infection (CF-P) had their plasma and sputum sol phase examined for albumin, Clq. C3/C3c, C4 and C5 by means of electroimmunoassays. Their sputum sol phase was examined also for factor B by rocketimmunoelectrophoresis. C3c was demonstrated in the sputum sol phase but significantly more frequent (p less than 0.01) among the CF + P patients than among the CF-P patients. Factor B was also demonstrated in the sputum sol phase, but no significant difference in frequency could be demonstrated between the CF + P and the CF-P patients. None of the results indicated that a local pulmonary production of complement factors took place. Complement activation was significantly (p less than 0.01) associated with inflammation expressed as increased (formula: see text). The results show the importance of complement mediated inflammation in the pathogenesis of pulmonary tissue damage in patients with CF and support the concept of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection as an immune complex disease in CF patients.", "contents": "Activated complement in the sputum from patients with cystic fibrosis. 14 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients chronically infected with mucoid P. aeruginosa and presenting multiple precipitins in serum against this bacterium (CF + P) and 13 CF patients without P. aeruginosa infection (CF-P) had their plasma and sputum sol phase examined for albumin, Clq. C3/C3c, C4 and C5 by means of electroimmunoassays. Their sputum sol phase was examined also for factor B by rocketimmunoelectrophoresis. C3c was demonstrated in the sputum sol phase but significantly more frequent (p less than 0.01) among the CF + P patients than among the CF-P patients. Factor B was also demonstrated in the sputum sol phase, but no significant difference in frequency could be demonstrated between the CF + P and the CF-P patients. None of the results indicated that a local pulmonary production of complement factors took place. Complement activation was significantly (p less than 0.01) associated with inflammation expressed as increased (formula: see text). The results show the importance of complement mediated inflammation in the pathogenesis of pulmonary tissue damage in patients with CF and support the concept of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection as an immune complex disease in CF patients.", "PMID": 433601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1662", "title": "Modulation by macrophages of lymphocyte responses to phytohaemagglutinin, concanavalin A and semiallogeneic cells.", "content": "To investigate the effect of macrophages on rat lymphocyte activation by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A (Con A) and semiallogeneic cells (uniderectional MLR), increasing concentrations of peritoneal cells (PC) were added to cultures of lymph node lymphocytes. Lymph node cell preparations contained 2-4% esterase positive cells (macrophages/monocytes). Any additional PC seemed only to inhibit MLR, whereas optimal responses of PHA and Con A stimulated cultures occurred when 1-2% abd 3-7% PC respectively were added. Ten percent PC markedly inhibited the response of both PHA and Con A stimulated cultures when added for the last 24 h of incubation. Inhibitory cells were shown to belong to the glass-wool adherent population of PC.", "contents": "Modulation by macrophages of lymphocyte responses to phytohaemagglutinin, concanavalin A and semiallogeneic cells. To investigate the effect of macrophages on rat lymphocyte activation by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A (Con A) and semiallogeneic cells (uniderectional MLR), increasing concentrations of peritoneal cells (PC) were added to cultures of lymph node lymphocytes. Lymph node cell preparations contained 2-4% esterase positive cells (macrophages/monocytes). Any additional PC seemed only to inhibit MLR, whereas optimal responses of PHA and Con A stimulated cultures occurred when 1-2% abd 3-7% PC respectively were added. Ten percent PC markedly inhibited the response of both PHA and Con A stimulated cultures when added for the last 24 h of incubation. Inhibitory cells were shown to belong to the glass-wool adherent population of PC.", "PMID": 433602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1663", "title": "Precipitating antibodies in dermatophytosis demonstrated by crossed immunoelectrophoresis.", "content": "A total of 289 serum specimens from 262 patients with dermatophytosis were studied, using crossed immunoelectrophoresis with an intermediate gel. Rabbit antidermatophyte antisera were used as reference, and the antigens were water soluble extracts of Trichophyton (T) rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum (M.) canis or Epidermophyton (E.) floccosum. Each serum was tested against the dermatophyte antigen corresponding to the infectious agent of the patient in question. Antidermatophyte antibodies could be demonstrated in 25 (9.5%) of the patients, and these were particularly frequent in patients with highly inflammatory lesions and those with chronic dermatophytosis caused by T. rubrum. Antibodies were detected in all four patients with kerion Celsi. Nine patients, five with acute dermatophytosis and four with chronic disease, who had precipitating antibodies at the initial examination were studied several times during the course of the disease. While the antibodies disappeared in all the patients with acute disease, they persisted in those with chronic dermatophytosis. The human antibodies showed marked cross reactivity with T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, M. canis and E. floccosum.", "contents": "Precipitating antibodies in dermatophytosis demonstrated by crossed immunoelectrophoresis. A total of 289 serum specimens from 262 patients with dermatophytosis were studied, using crossed immunoelectrophoresis with an intermediate gel. Rabbit antidermatophyte antisera were used as reference, and the antigens were water soluble extracts of Trichophyton (T) rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum (M.) canis or Epidermophyton (E.) floccosum. Each serum was tested against the dermatophyte antigen corresponding to the infectious agent of the patient in question. Antidermatophyte antibodies could be demonstrated in 25 (9.5%) of the patients, and these were particularly frequent in patients with highly inflammatory lesions and those with chronic dermatophytosis caused by T. rubrum. Antibodies were detected in all four patients with kerion Celsi. Nine patients, five with acute dermatophytosis and four with chronic disease, who had precipitating antibodies at the initial examination were studied several times during the course of the disease. While the antibodies disappeared in all the patients with acute disease, they persisted in those with chronic dermatophytosis. The human antibodies showed marked cross reactivity with T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, M. canis and E. floccosum.", "PMID": 433603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1664", "title": "Salmonella typhi--induced stimulation of blood lymphocytes from persons with previous typhoid fever.", "content": "In 21 persons with previous typhoid fever and in 15 controls thymidine incorporation of blood lymphocytes stimulated in vitro by killed Salmonella typhi was studied. The optimal culture conditions were established to be a cell density of 10(5) cells per vial, stimulated with 10(8) S. typhi and incubated for 5 days. The lymphocytes response to S. typhi was significantly higher in the typhoid group than in the controls. The lymphocyte responsiveness was not correlated to the time elapsed since the attack, and was not found different in patients who had had typhoid relapse. No difference was found in lymphocyte response to the mitogens PHA, PWM and Con-A between the typhoid group and the controls.", "contents": "Salmonella typhi--induced stimulation of blood lymphocytes from persons with previous typhoid fever. In 21 persons with previous typhoid fever and in 15 controls thymidine incorporation of blood lymphocytes stimulated in vitro by killed Salmonella typhi was studied. The optimal culture conditions were established to be a cell density of 10(5) cells per vial, stimulated with 10(8) S. typhi and incubated for 5 days. The lymphocytes response to S. typhi was significantly higher in the typhoid group than in the controls. The lymphocyte responsiveness was not correlated to the time elapsed since the attack, and was not found different in patients who had had typhoid relapse. No difference was found in lymphocyte response to the mitogens PHA, PWM and Con-A between the typhoid group and the controls.", "PMID": 433604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1665", "title": "The timing of the immune response in relation to virus growth determines the outcome of the LCM infection.", "content": "In the present study earlier observations of a dual role of the immune response against lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) virus were confirmed and extended. At different times after intracerebral (i.c.) inoculation of the virus, groups of immunosuppressed recipients were transplanted with primary effector cells or memory cells, and the mortality was recorded. The brains and blood of untransplanted immunosuppressed recipients were titrated at intervals after the i.c. challenge, and so were the brains of mice receiving peak primary effector cells at various times relative to the i.c. challenge. The results showed a definite correlation between the brain virus titre at the time of the immune attack and the clinical outcome of the LCM infection. Furthermore, the results indicated that the extent of the extraneural infection is not unimportant but may affect the outcome of the infection through competition for the effector cells. The possible implications of these findings are discussed.", "contents": "The timing of the immune response in relation to virus growth determines the outcome of the LCM infection. In the present study earlier observations of a dual role of the immune response against lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) virus were confirmed and extended. At different times after intracerebral (i.c.) inoculation of the virus, groups of immunosuppressed recipients were transplanted with primary effector cells or memory cells, and the mortality was recorded. The brains and blood of untransplanted immunosuppressed recipients were titrated at intervals after the i.c. challenge, and so were the brains of mice receiving peak primary effector cells at various times relative to the i.c. challenge. The results showed a definite correlation between the brain virus titre at the time of the immune attack and the clinical outcome of the LCM infection. Furthermore, the results indicated that the extent of the extraneural infection is not unimportant but may affect the outcome of the infection through competition for the effector cells. The possible implications of these findings are discussed.", "PMID": 433605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1666", "title": "The effect of selenium on the biliary excretion and organ distribution of mercury in the rat after exposure to methyl mercuric chloride.", "content": "The influence of selenium compounds on the biliary excretion and the organ distribution of mercury after injection of methyl mercuric chloride (4 mumol/kg) have been tested. Selenite, seleno-di-N-acetylglycine and seleno-methionine strongly inhibited the biliary excretion of mercury. Selenite even in a molar dose of 1/40 of the methyl mercury dose inhibited the biliary excretion of mercury. The less toxic seleno-di-N-acetylglycine was needed in larger molar doses and did not act as rapidly as selenite. Biliary excreted methyl mercury is known to be partly reabsorbed in the gut. Subsequently a part of it is deposited in the kidneys since drainage of the bile lowered the kidney content of mercury. Rats given selenium compounds in combination with bile drainage showed further reduction of the kidney mercury content than bile duct drainage alone. Thus the demonstrated lowering effect of selenium compounds on the kidney mercury content cannot be completely explained by an inhibition of biliary excretion of mercury. The mercury concentration in the brain was increased by the selenium compounds; the effect being dependent of the selenium dose reaching a maximum at an equimolar selenite--to methyl mercury dose ratio. The mechanisms by which selenium influences the methyl mercury kinetics are discussed.", "contents": "The effect of selenium on the biliary excretion and organ distribution of mercury in the rat after exposure to methyl mercuric chloride. The influence of selenium compounds on the biliary excretion and the organ distribution of mercury after injection of methyl mercuric chloride (4 mumol/kg) have been tested. Selenite, seleno-di-N-acetylglycine and seleno-methionine strongly inhibited the biliary excretion of mercury. Selenite even in a molar dose of 1/40 of the methyl mercury dose inhibited the biliary excretion of mercury. The less toxic seleno-di-N-acetylglycine was needed in larger molar doses and did not act as rapidly as selenite. Biliary excreted methyl mercury is known to be partly reabsorbed in the gut. Subsequently a part of it is deposited in the kidneys since drainage of the bile lowered the kidney content of mercury. Rats given selenium compounds in combination with bile drainage showed further reduction of the kidney mercury content than bile duct drainage alone. Thus the demonstrated lowering effect of selenium compounds on the kidney mercury content cannot be completely explained by an inhibition of biliary excretion of mercury. The mercury concentration in the brain was increased by the selenium compounds; the effect being dependent of the selenium dose reaching a maximum at an equimolar selenite--to methyl mercury dose ratio. The mechanisms by which selenium influences the methyl mercury kinetics are discussed.", "PMID": 433607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1667", "title": "The effect of nifedipine on the monophasic action potential and refractoriness of the right ventricle of the dog heart in situ after beta-adrenergic receptor blockade.", "content": "The effect of nifedipine, a calcium-antagonistic drug, was studied on the electrophysiology of the right ventricle in the dog heart in situ. Monophasic action potential recordings were obtained by the suction electrode technique and refractoriness was measured by means of programmed electrical stimulation. Pentobarbital anaesthesia was used. As the basic cardiac effects of nifedipine can be altered by the release of catecholamines from sympathetic nerves of the heart and vessels, the dogs were pretreated with the beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent acebutolol which increased the action potential duration and the refractoriness. Intravenous injection of nifedipine 30 microgram/kg body weight decreased the times for 50 and 90 per cent repolarization of the monophasic action potential and to a smaller extent the effective and functional refractory period. It is suggested that nifedipine decreases the action potential duration and the refractoriness of the right ventricle of the dog heart in situ due to a direct effect of the drug on the myocardium.", "contents": "The effect of nifedipine on the monophasic action potential and refractoriness of the right ventricle of the dog heart in situ after beta-adrenergic receptor blockade. The effect of nifedipine, a calcium-antagonistic drug, was studied on the electrophysiology of the right ventricle in the dog heart in situ. Monophasic action potential recordings were obtained by the suction electrode technique and refractoriness was measured by means of programmed electrical stimulation. Pentobarbital anaesthesia was used. As the basic cardiac effects of nifedipine can be altered by the release of catecholamines from sympathetic nerves of the heart and vessels, the dogs were pretreated with the beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent acebutolol which increased the action potential duration and the refractoriness. Intravenous injection of nifedipine 30 microgram/kg body weight decreased the times for 50 and 90 per cent repolarization of the monophasic action potential and to a smaller extent the effective and functional refractory period. It is suggested that nifedipine decreases the action potential duration and the refractoriness of the right ventricle of the dog heart in situ due to a direct effect of the drug on the myocardium.", "PMID": 433608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1668", "title": "Effects of the GABA receptor agonist muscimol on the turnover of brain dopamine and on the motor activity of rats.", "content": "Muscimol (3-hydroxy-5-aminomethylisoxazole) at a high dose (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) elevated the concentration of brain dopamine in rats, decreased the utilization of dopamine and increased the synthesis of dopamine. The utilization of noradrenaline was acclerated rather than retarded by muscimol. Local application of muscimol to the nucleus accumbens of rats inhibited the motor activity in a dose-dependent manner with only a slight subsequent hyperactivity. The effects are similar to those produced by GABA and they support the view that muscimol is a GABA receptor agonist.", "contents": "Effects of the GABA receptor agonist muscimol on the turnover of brain dopamine and on the motor activity of rats. Muscimol (3-hydroxy-5-aminomethylisoxazole) at a high dose (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) elevated the concentration of brain dopamine in rats, decreased the utilization of dopamine and increased the synthesis of dopamine. The utilization of noradrenaline was acclerated rather than retarded by muscimol. Local application of muscimol to the nucleus accumbens of rats inhibited the motor activity in a dose-dependent manner with only a slight subsequent hyperactivity. The effects are similar to those produced by GABA and they support the view that muscimol is a GABA receptor agonist.", "PMID": 433609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1669", "title": "Haematological anomalies in a fresh water teleost, Colisa fasciatus, on acute exposure to cobalt.", "content": "Colisa fasciatus, a fresh water teleost, when exposed for 90 hrs to a sublethal concentration of 195 p.p.m. (0.87 of the 96 hrs LC50 value) cobalt elicited leucopenia due to reduction in the number of circulating small lymphocytes. The treatment also caused decline in blood clotting time with a concomitant increase in the abundance of circulating thrombocytes. No differences in total erythrocyte count, haematocrit, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and haemoglobin values were found between the control and treated fish. The hepatosomatic index of fish increased significantly after exposure to cobalt. Results are discussed in terms of fish's reaction to acute stress.", "contents": "Haematological anomalies in a fresh water teleost, Colisa fasciatus, on acute exposure to cobalt. Colisa fasciatus, a fresh water teleost, when exposed for 90 hrs to a sublethal concentration of 195 p.p.m. (0.87 of the 96 hrs LC50 value) cobalt elicited leucopenia due to reduction in the number of circulating small lymphocytes. The treatment also caused decline in blood clotting time with a concomitant increase in the abundance of circulating thrombocytes. No differences in total erythrocyte count, haematocrit, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and haemoglobin values were found between the control and treated fish. The hepatosomatic index of fish increased significantly after exposure to cobalt. Results are discussed in terms of fish's reaction to acute stress.", "PMID": 433610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1670", "title": "Interactions of surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts with the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii.", "content": "The interactions of three surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts (C12-C16) with the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii were studied. The surfactants caused a release of K+ from the cells at premicellar concentrations. The lytic effectiveness of the surfactants increased with an increase in the length of the alkyl chain with about an order of magnitude for every two carbon atoms added to the alkyl chain. Binding studies with the C16 homologue revealed that at a concentration corresponding to 50% release of K+ there were about 1.9 x10(10) molecules bound per cell. At prelytic concentrations the surfactants stimulated phagocytosis and pinocytosis. The mode of action of the surfactants on the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii is discussed and it is hypothesized that the stimulation of endocytosis is due to a \"fluidizing\" effect of the surfactants on the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane.", "contents": "Interactions of surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts with the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii. The interactions of three surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts (C12-C16) with the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii were studied. The surfactants caused a release of K+ from the cells at premicellar concentrations. The lytic effectiveness of the surfactants increased with an increase in the length of the alkyl chain with about an order of magnitude for every two carbon atoms added to the alkyl chain. Binding studies with the C16 homologue revealed that at a concentration corresponding to 50% release of K+ there were about 1.9 x10(10) molecules bound per cell. At prelytic concentrations the surfactants stimulated phagocytosis and pinocytosis. The mode of action of the surfactants on the plasma membrane of Acanthamoeba castellanii is discussed and it is hypothesized that the stimulation of endocytosis is due to a \"fluidizing\" effect of the surfactants on the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane.", "PMID": 433611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1671", "title": "Vascular anti-permeability effects of beta-receptor agonists and theophylline in the lung.", "content": "In conscious guinea-pigs the effect of theophylline, terbutaline and isoprenaline on histamine-induced increase in lung weight was examined. Animals exposed to a saline aerosol had a lung weight to body weight ratio of about 0.8%. Exposure to a histamine aerosol raised this value to about 1.1 (P less than 0.001). Theophylline 55 mg/kg and 110 mg/kg was given orally, terbutaline 0.1 mg/kg and isoprenaline 0.01 mg/kg and 0.03 mg/kg subcutaneously before exposure to histamine. The three drugs prevented the lung weight effect produced by histamine aerosol (P less than 0.01, P less than 0.001, P less than 0.001, P less than 0.1, P less than 0.001 respectively). Changes in lung blood content did not contribute to the weight-reducing effects. The potency ratio found between terbutaline and isoprenaline suggests that beta-2-receptors might be involved in the anti-permeability effect. Propranolol-treated animals did not survive in the histamine-aerosol unless they received theophylline; neither bronchodilator nor antipermeability effects of theophylline were antagonized by propranolol. It is concluded that in guinea-pigs theophylline and beta-agonists, in bronchodilating doses have the additional effect of preventing permeability oedema in the lung.", "contents": "Vascular anti-permeability effects of beta-receptor agonists and theophylline in the lung. In conscious guinea-pigs the effect of theophylline, terbutaline and isoprenaline on histamine-induced increase in lung weight was examined. Animals exposed to a saline aerosol had a lung weight to body weight ratio of about 0.8%. Exposure to a histamine aerosol raised this value to about 1.1 (P less than 0.001). Theophylline 55 mg/kg and 110 mg/kg was given orally, terbutaline 0.1 mg/kg and isoprenaline 0.01 mg/kg and 0.03 mg/kg subcutaneously before exposure to histamine. The three drugs prevented the lung weight effect produced by histamine aerosol (P less than 0.01, P less than 0.001, P less than 0.001, P less than 0.1, P less than 0.001 respectively). Changes in lung blood content did not contribute to the weight-reducing effects. The potency ratio found between terbutaline and isoprenaline suggests that beta-2-receptors might be involved in the anti-permeability effect. Propranolol-treated animals did not survive in the histamine-aerosol unless they received theophylline; neither bronchodilator nor antipermeability effects of theophylline were antagonized by propranolol. It is concluded that in guinea-pigs theophylline and beta-agonists, in bronchodilating doses have the additional effect of preventing permeability oedema in the lung.", "PMID": 433612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1672", "title": "Inhibition of ATP-induced contraction in the guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo.", "content": "Contractions were elicted by adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) in the guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo. In isolated detrusor strips, tetrodotoxin (3.1 x 10(-6)--4.4 x 10(-5) M) did not affect contractions induced by a submaximum concentration (10(-3) M) of ATP, nor did atropine (1.7 X 10(-6)--2.1 x 10(-4) M), or the anticholinergic agent PR 197 within the concentration range 2.6 x 10(-8)--2.6 x (0(-5) M. In higher concentractions (5.2 x 10(-5)--2.6 x 10(-4) M), PR 197 inhibited the ATP-response by 60-70% in a way that was not clearly concentration-related. Isoprenaline (10(-7)--2.0 x 10(-5) M) and noradrenaline (2.5 x 10(-6)--10(-4) M) reduced the ATP-induced contractions by up to 79%. The effects of the amines were abolished by propranolol (5.2 x 10(-6)--3.8 x 10(-5) M). Adenosine, 1.0--2.0 x 10(-2) M, reduced the ATP-response by about 50%; in lower concentrations, it had no effect. Nifedipine, 7.8 x 10(-7)--1.2 x 10(-5) M, reduced the responses by 15-79%. Indomethacin (less than 2.0 x 10(-4) M), and theophylline (2.0 x 10(-4) M) had no consistent effects on ATP-induced concentrations. Exposure of the preparations to a calcium-free medium reduced and abolished the ATP-response within 60 min. Intravenous injection of ATP (1-20 MG/KG) caused a rapid and transient increase in intravesical pressure in the anaesthetized guinea-pig. The effect of ATP (3 mg/kg) was reduced by atropine (5-10 mg/kg) by approximately 35%. PR 197 (2.5-5 mg/kg) abolished the ATP-response. Isoprenaline (5-100 microgram/kg) caused a 53-95% inhibition that could be blocked by propranolol (1 mg/kg). The inhibiting effect of noradrenaline (10-100 microgram/kg) could not be blocked by propranolol (1 mg/kg). Adenosine (1.5-3.0 mg/kg) given immedicately before ATP completely inhibited the ATP-response. Nifedipine, 0.1-0.2 mg/kg, reduced the ATP-induced contraction by 34 to 100%. It is concluded that the ATP-induced contraction is elicted by a direct effect on the smooth muscle cell. It can be inhibited non-specifically by drugs with different modes of action.", "contents": "Inhibition of ATP-induced contraction in the guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo. Contractions were elicted by adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) in the guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo. In isolated detrusor strips, tetrodotoxin (3.1 x 10(-6)--4.4 x 10(-5) M) did not affect contractions induced by a submaximum concentration (10(-3) M) of ATP, nor did atropine (1.7 X 10(-6)--2.1 x 10(-4) M), or the anticholinergic agent PR 197 within the concentration range 2.6 x 10(-8)--2.6 x (0(-5) M. In higher concentractions (5.2 x 10(-5)--2.6 x 10(-4) M), PR 197 inhibited the ATP-response by 60-70% in a way that was not clearly concentration-related. Isoprenaline (10(-7)--2.0 x 10(-5) M) and noradrenaline (2.5 x 10(-6)--10(-4) M) reduced the ATP-induced contractions by up to 79%. The effects of the amines were abolished by propranolol (5.2 x 10(-6)--3.8 x 10(-5) M). Adenosine, 1.0--2.0 x 10(-2) M, reduced the ATP-response by about 50%; in lower concentrations, it had no effect. Nifedipine, 7.8 x 10(-7)--1.2 x 10(-5) M, reduced the responses by 15-79%. Indomethacin (less than 2.0 x 10(-4) M), and theophylline (2.0 x 10(-4) M) had no consistent effects on ATP-induced concentrations. Exposure of the preparations to a calcium-free medium reduced and abolished the ATP-response within 60 min. Intravenous injection of ATP (1-20 MG/KG) caused a rapid and transient increase in intravesical pressure in the anaesthetized guinea-pig. The effect of ATP (3 mg/kg) was reduced by atropine (5-10 mg/kg) by approximately 35%. PR 197 (2.5-5 mg/kg) abolished the ATP-response. Isoprenaline (5-100 microgram/kg) caused a 53-95% inhibition that could be blocked by propranolol (1 mg/kg). The inhibiting effect of noradrenaline (10-100 microgram/kg) could not be blocked by propranolol (1 mg/kg). Adenosine (1.5-3.0 mg/kg) given immedicately before ATP completely inhibited the ATP-response. Nifedipine, 0.1-0.2 mg/kg, reduced the ATP-induced contraction by 34 to 100%. It is concluded that the ATP-induced contraction is elicted by a direct effect on the smooth muscle cell. It can be inhibited non-specifically by drugs with different modes of action.", "PMID": 433613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1673", "title": "Effects of cholinoceptor blocking drugs, adrenoceptor stimulants, and calcium antagonists on the transmurally stimulated guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo.", "content": "The effects of different drugs on the response to transmural electrical stimulation of the guinea-pig urinary bladder were studied in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, atropine (3.0 x 10(-8)-5.9 x 10(-4) M) did not influence the contractions. When used in high concentrations (greater than 5.2 x 10(-5) M), PR 197, another anticholinergic compound, reduced the responses by 25-40%, probably by a non-specific action. Noradrenaline (2.0 x 10(-6)--2.0 x 10(-4) M) and isoprenaline (2.0 x 10(-8)-2.0 x 10(-4) M) had concentration-related inhibitory effects that could be blocked by propranolol (5.2 x 10(-6) M). Adenosine (2.0 x 10(-2) M) inhibited the response by 27 +/- 3% (mean +/- S.E.M., n = 9). Theophylline (2.0 x 10(-5)-6.0 x 10(-4) M) had no consistent effects. The calcium antagonist nifedipone (1.2 x 10(-6)-1.7 x 10(-5) M) reduced the contractions by 25-50%; verapamil (2.2 x 10(-5)-4.4 x 10(-4) M) was little effective. In vivo, atropine (10 mg/kg) reduced the contractions by 55 +/- 5% (n = 10), whereas PR 197 (5 mg/kg) almost completely suppressed the responses. Noradrenaline (20-100 microgram/kg) and isoprenaline (20-300 microgram/kg) also caused a marked inhibition that could be blocked by propranolol (0.25-2.0 mg/kg). Theophylline (5 and 10 mg/kg) had a weak (10-20%) inhibitory effect. Adenosine (3.0 mg/kg) reduced the contractions by 47 +/- 4% (n = 14); in guinea-pigs pretreated with atropine (10 mg/kg), adenosine produced a further 10 to 20% decrease of the responses. Verapamil (0.5-2.0 mg/kg) had no consistent effect, whereas nifedipine (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) caused an inhibition of 20-50%. The results suggest that beta-adrenoceptor stimulants, and drugs with a combined anticholinergic and non-specific action, can effectively suppress the electrically evoked contractions in the guinea-pig urinary bladder.", "contents": "Effects of cholinoceptor blocking drugs, adrenoceptor stimulants, and calcium antagonists on the transmurally stimulated guinea-pig urinary bladder in vitro and in vivo. The effects of different drugs on the response to transmural electrical stimulation of the guinea-pig urinary bladder were studied in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, atropine (3.0 x 10(-8)-5.9 x 10(-4) M) did not influence the contractions. When used in high concentrations (greater than 5.2 x 10(-5) M), PR 197, another anticholinergic compound, reduced the responses by 25-40%, probably by a non-specific action. Noradrenaline (2.0 x 10(-6)--2.0 x 10(-4) M) and isoprenaline (2.0 x 10(-8)-2.0 x 10(-4) M) had concentration-related inhibitory effects that could be blocked by propranolol (5.2 x 10(-6) M). Adenosine (2.0 x 10(-2) M) inhibited the response by 27 +/- 3% (mean +/- S.E.M., n = 9). Theophylline (2.0 x 10(-5)-6.0 x 10(-4) M) had no consistent effects. The calcium antagonist nifedipone (1.2 x 10(-6)-1.7 x 10(-5) M) reduced the contractions by 25-50%; verapamil (2.2 x 10(-5)-4.4 x 10(-4) M) was little effective. In vivo, atropine (10 mg/kg) reduced the contractions by 55 +/- 5% (n = 10), whereas PR 197 (5 mg/kg) almost completely suppressed the responses. Noradrenaline (20-100 microgram/kg) and isoprenaline (20-300 microgram/kg) also caused a marked inhibition that could be blocked by propranolol (0.25-2.0 mg/kg). Theophylline (5 and 10 mg/kg) had a weak (10-20%) inhibitory effect. Adenosine (3.0 mg/kg) reduced the contractions by 47 +/- 4% (n = 14); in guinea-pigs pretreated with atropine (10 mg/kg), adenosine produced a further 10 to 20% decrease of the responses. Verapamil (0.5-2.0 mg/kg) had no consistent effect, whereas nifedipine (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) caused an inhibition of 20-50%. The results suggest that beta-adrenoceptor stimulants, and drugs with a combined anticholinergic and non-specific action, can effectively suppress the electrically evoked contractions in the guinea-pig urinary bladder.", "PMID": 433614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1674", "title": "Studies on the handling of retinotoxic doses of iodate in rabbits.", "content": "Accumulation of iodate in eye tissues and fluids as a possible explanation of the retinotoxic effect of iodate has been studied by intravenous injection of NaIO3(30 mg/kg), 125IO-3 and 131I- in rabbits. 125IO-3 was determined in fluids and tissue extracts by precipitation with BaCl2 after addition of KIO3. 125IO-3 was rapidly broken down in blood (T 1/2 = 14 min.). 125IO-3 was not present in aqueous humour, vitreous or extracts from retina, choroid + pigmentary epithelium or liver. Concentrations of 125I were comparable in blood, choroid + pigmentary epithelium and liver tissue while in vitreous and aqueous humour low concentrations of 125I were found which, however, increased gradually during 5 hrs after injection to reach levels comparable with blood levels of 125I. Retina had a low concentration of 125I. The ratio 125I/131I (R) in blood decreases during the first 60 min. after injection followed by a slow rise. R in retina, choroid + pigmentary epithelium and liver was the same as in blood at the same time after injection. During the first 80 min. after injection R was higher in vitreous than in blood while it was lower in aqueous humour than in blood. At longer times after injection R was identical in the three fluids. The investigation has been supplemented with whole body scintigraphy of rabbits injected with NaIO3(30 mg/kg) and 131IO-3 or 131I-. The reduction kinetics of IO-3 to I- by some body fluids, tissues, cystein and glutathione was also studied. It is concluded that the retinotoxic effect of iodate is not due to accumulation of IO-3 in eye tissues, but more likely to damage to biochemical mechanisms involved in the reduction of IO-3 to I-.", "contents": "Studies on the handling of retinotoxic doses of iodate in rabbits. Accumulation of iodate in eye tissues and fluids as a possible explanation of the retinotoxic effect of iodate has been studied by intravenous injection of NaIO3(30 mg/kg), 125IO-3 and 131I- in rabbits. 125IO-3 was determined in fluids and tissue extracts by precipitation with BaCl2 after addition of KIO3. 125IO-3 was rapidly broken down in blood (T 1/2 = 14 min.). 125IO-3 was not present in aqueous humour, vitreous or extracts from retina, choroid + pigmentary epithelium or liver. Concentrations of 125I were comparable in blood, choroid + pigmentary epithelium and liver tissue while in vitreous and aqueous humour low concentrations of 125I were found which, however, increased gradually during 5 hrs after injection to reach levels comparable with blood levels of 125I. Retina had a low concentration of 125I. The ratio 125I/131I (R) in blood decreases during the first 60 min. after injection followed by a slow rise. R in retina, choroid + pigmentary epithelium and liver was the same as in blood at the same time after injection. During the first 80 min. after injection R was higher in vitreous than in blood while it was lower in aqueous humour than in blood. At longer times after injection R was identical in the three fluids. The investigation has been supplemented with whole body scintigraphy of rabbits injected with NaIO3(30 mg/kg) and 131IO-3 or 131I-. The reduction kinetics of IO-3 to I- by some body fluids, tissues, cystein and glutathione was also studied. It is concluded that the retinotoxic effect of iodate is not due to accumulation of IO-3 in eye tissues, but more likely to damage to biochemical mechanisms involved in the reduction of IO-3 to I-.", "PMID": 433617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1675", "title": "Determination of thiopental by high pressure liquid chromatography.", "content": "A specific and rapid reverse phase HPLC-method for the determination of thiopental in serum and in protein free solutions is described. No extraction is used. The detection limit is about 0.090 microgram/ml for serum and about 0.030 microgram/ml for buffer solutions. The retention time is 3.80 min. No interference is found with drugs commonly used in patients with heart diseases. The method was used to follow the serum concentrations in 7 patients who were given thiopental as an introduction to general anaesthesia.", "contents": "Determination of thiopental by high pressure liquid chromatography. A specific and rapid reverse phase HPLC-method for the determination of thiopental in serum and in protein free solutions is described. No extraction is used. The detection limit is about 0.090 microgram/ml for serum and about 0.030 microgram/ml for buffer solutions. The retention time is 3.80 min. No interference is found with drugs commonly used in patients with heart diseases. The method was used to follow the serum concentrations in 7 patients who were given thiopental as an introduction to general anaesthesia.", "PMID": 433619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1676", "title": "The effect of prolonged pentobarbital anaesthesia on cardiac electrophysiology and inotropy of the dog heart in situ.", "content": "The effect of prolonged pentobarbital anaesthesia was tested on the dog heart in situ by means of His bundle electrography and programmed electrical stimulation, monophasic action potential recordings from the right ventricle and measurements of peak dp/dt obtained by Millar tip transducer in the left ventricle. Sixteen dogs were used. Immediately after catheterization during anaesthesia, a slight decreased heart rate, a reduction in the conduction velocity and an increase in the functional refractory period of the atrioventricular node occurred. From 15 to 30 min. after catheterization we observed no change in cardiac electrophysiology during the 8 hrs observation period. A slight decrease in contractility, however, appeared towards the end of the period. We conclude that dogs anaesthetized with pentobarbital could serve as a suitable model for testing drug effect on cardiac electrophysiology and contractility. The limitations of the model area are discussed.", "contents": "The effect of prolonged pentobarbital anaesthesia on cardiac electrophysiology and inotropy of the dog heart in situ. The effect of prolonged pentobarbital anaesthesia was tested on the dog heart in situ by means of His bundle electrography and programmed electrical stimulation, monophasic action potential recordings from the right ventricle and measurements of peak dp/dt obtained by Millar tip transducer in the left ventricle. Sixteen dogs were used. Immediately after catheterization during anaesthesia, a slight decreased heart rate, a reduction in the conduction velocity and an increase in the functional refractory period of the atrioventricular node occurred. From 15 to 30 min. after catheterization we observed no change in cardiac electrophysiology during the 8 hrs observation period. A slight decrease in contractility, however, appeared towards the end of the period. We conclude that dogs anaesthetized with pentobarbital could serve as a suitable model for testing drug effect on cardiac electrophysiology and contractility. The limitations of the model area are discussed.", "PMID": 433620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1677", "title": "The determination of naproxen by spectrofluorometry and its binding to serum proteins.", "content": "A fluorometric method for the determination of naproxen in serum, albumin solutions and protein free buffer solutions is described. The detection limit is about 10 ng/ml. Furosemide, thiopental and salicylic acid did not show any disturbing fluorescence while phenprocoumon did. The in vitro binding of naproxen in albumin solutions and serum was studied by equilibrium dialysis. A small but significant increase was found in the percentual binding in albumin solutions as compared to serum. The percentual binding was not affected by changes in the pH from 5--8. By fitting the binding data to a model assuming two classes of binding sites, association constants and binding capacities were determined. A very high affinity and a high capacity were found. The association constant for the first class of binding sites was higher for human serum albumin than for serum (8.5 versus 5.3 . 10(6) M-1). The difference in the protein binding to the first class of binding sites in human serum albumin and serum can be explained by the existence of a competitive inhibitor in serum.", "contents": "The determination of naproxen by spectrofluorometry and its binding to serum proteins. A fluorometric method for the determination of naproxen in serum, albumin solutions and protein free buffer solutions is described. The detection limit is about 10 ng/ml. Furosemide, thiopental and salicylic acid did not show any disturbing fluorescence while phenprocoumon did. The in vitro binding of naproxen in albumin solutions and serum was studied by equilibrium dialysis. A small but significant increase was found in the percentual binding in albumin solutions as compared to serum. The percentual binding was not affected by changes in the pH from 5--8. By fitting the binding data to a model assuming two classes of binding sites, association constants and binding capacities were determined. A very high affinity and a high capacity were found. The association constant for the first class of binding sites was higher for human serum albumin than for serum (8.5 versus 5.3 . 10(6) M-1). The difference in the protein binding to the first class of binding sites in human serum albumin and serum can be explained by the existence of a competitive inhibitor in serum.", "PMID": 433621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1678", "title": "Cytotoxic effects of tris(2,3-dibromopropyl)phosphate and 2,4-diaminoanisole.", "content": "The flame retardant tris(2,3-dibromopropyl)phosphate (Tris-BP) and the hair-dye component 2,4-diaminoanisole (2,4-DAA) were studied by possible cytotoxic effects in rat hepatoma cells grown in culture and in suspensions of isolated rat hepatocytes. Cell growth of Reuber cells was inhibited by 50% at 50 microgram/ml Tris-BP and 20 microgram/ml 2,4-DAA, respectively. At 200 microgram/ml Tris-BP protein synthesis in Reuber cells was reduced by 40%, whereas 50% inhibition of protein synthesis in isolated hepatocytes was seen at 100 microgram/ml. IC50 of 2,4-DAA with respect to protein synthesis was found at 400 microgram/ml in Reuber cells and at 3600 microgram/ml in MH1C1 cells, whereas in the isolated hepatocytes IC50 was 650 microgram/ml. DNA synthesis was inhibited by 50% at 225 microgram/ml Tris-BP in Reuber cells. At 500 microgram/ml 2,4-DAA DNA synthesis in Reuber and MH1C1 cells was inhibited by more than 80%.", "contents": "Cytotoxic effects of tris(2,3-dibromopropyl)phosphate and 2,4-diaminoanisole. The flame retardant tris(2,3-dibromopropyl)phosphate (Tris-BP) and the hair-dye component 2,4-diaminoanisole (2,4-DAA) were studied by possible cytotoxic effects in rat hepatoma cells grown in culture and in suspensions of isolated rat hepatocytes. Cell growth of Reuber cells was inhibited by 50% at 50 microgram/ml Tris-BP and 20 microgram/ml 2,4-DAA, respectively. At 200 microgram/ml Tris-BP protein synthesis in Reuber cells was reduced by 40%, whereas 50% inhibition of protein synthesis in isolated hepatocytes was seen at 100 microgram/ml. IC50 of 2,4-DAA with respect to protein synthesis was found at 400 microgram/ml in Reuber cells and at 3600 microgram/ml in MH1C1 cells, whereas in the isolated hepatocytes IC50 was 650 microgram/ml. DNA synthesis was inhibited by 50% at 225 microgram/ml Tris-BP in Reuber cells. At 500 microgram/ml 2,4-DAA DNA synthesis in Reuber and MH1C1 cells was inhibited by more than 80%.", "PMID": 433622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1679", "title": "Paroxetine: pharmacokinetics, tolerance and depletion of blood 5-HT in man.", "content": "The tolerance of paroxetine (FG 7051), as well as its pharmacokinetics and reduction of 5-HT in blood, has been investigated in man. Three normal, healthy volunteers were administered the single doses 10, 25, 50, and 75 mg orally, and three volunteers received 10, 25, and 50 mg per day for seven or fourteen days. No toxic effect on blood, kidney, liver, heart or general condition was found by chemical and physical examinations. The pharmacokinetic studies revealed a dose dependent systemic availability, a rather slow elimination (t1-z2 = approximately 16 hrs), a good fit to one compartment open model, and an almost complete metabolism of the substance. 25 mg paroxetine per day gave a maximal reduction of 5-HT in the blood within 2--3 weeks (to approximately 0.03 microgram/ml). The 5-HT levels returned to the basic levels during a three to four weeks drug-free period.", "contents": "Paroxetine: pharmacokinetics, tolerance and depletion of blood 5-HT in man. The tolerance of paroxetine (FG 7051), as well as its pharmacokinetics and reduction of 5-HT in blood, has been investigated in man. Three normal, healthy volunteers were administered the single doses 10, 25, 50, and 75 mg orally, and three volunteers received 10, 25, and 50 mg per day for seven or fourteen days. No toxic effect on blood, kidney, liver, heart or general condition was found by chemical and physical examinations. The pharmacokinetic studies revealed a dose dependent systemic availability, a rather slow elimination (t1-z2 = approximately 16 hrs), a good fit to one compartment open model, and an almost complete metabolism of the substance. 25 mg paroxetine per day gave a maximal reduction of 5-HT in the blood within 2--3 weeks (to approximately 0.03 microgram/ml). The 5-HT levels returned to the basic levels during a three to four weeks drug-free period.", "PMID": 433623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1680", "title": "Methotrexate concentrations in biological fluids: comparison of results obtained by radioimmunoassay and direct ligand binding radioassay.", "content": "A sensitive (sensitivity 2.2 X 10(-9) mol/l) and specific (practically no cross-reaction with circulating folates) radioimmunoassay for the determination of methotrexate concentrations in biological fluids in described and compared with a commercial competitive protein binding assay. Antiserum with high titer was produced in rabbits immunized with MTX-human serum albumin conjugate. Fitness for use in pharmacokinetic drug level determinations was shown in three patients, who received both low doses and high dose therapy combined with citrovorum factor rescue. An excellent correlation was found between plasma and urine MTX concentrations obtained by RIA and competitive protein binding assay. A two-compartment pharmacokinetic model was found adequately describing the serum decay curves, but there was a great interindividual variability in the calculated pharmacokinetic parameters.", "contents": "Methotrexate concentrations in biological fluids: comparison of results obtained by radioimmunoassay and direct ligand binding radioassay. A sensitive (sensitivity 2.2 X 10(-9) mol/l) and specific (practically no cross-reaction with circulating folates) radioimmunoassay for the determination of methotrexate concentrations in biological fluids in described and compared with a commercial competitive protein binding assay. Antiserum with high titer was produced in rabbits immunized with MTX-human serum albumin conjugate. Fitness for use in pharmacokinetic drug level determinations was shown in three patients, who received both low doses and high dose therapy combined with citrovorum factor rescue. An excellent correlation was found between plasma and urine MTX concentrations obtained by RIA and competitive protein binding assay. A two-compartment pharmacokinetic model was found adequately describing the serum decay curves, but there was a great interindividual variability in the calculated pharmacokinetic parameters.", "PMID": 433624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1681", "title": "The distribution of 14C-ethoxyquin in rat.", "content": "Adult male rats were given the antioxidant 14C-ethoxyquin by oral intubation and were sacrificed at various time intervals from 0.5 hr to 6 days following administration of the drug. The distribution pattern was studied by whole-body autoradiography and liquid scintillation counting. The isotopelabelled antioxidant was distributed throoughout most tissues and the blood at 0.5 hr after administration. The highest radioactivity throughout the experimental period was observed in the liver, the kidney, the gastrointestinal tract and the adipose tissue. No activity was observed in the brain and the central nervous system. Of the dose ingested 2.2 and 0.2% were found in the liver at 0.5 hr and 6 days respectively following dosing. The hepatic peak in radioactivity was measured at 8 hrs and after 6 days 7.5% of this level was still present in the liver. Six days after administration residues of ethoxyquin and metabolites were also present in the kidney cortex, the intestines, the lung, various adipose tissue and blood.", "contents": "The distribution of 14C-ethoxyquin in rat. Adult male rats were given the antioxidant 14C-ethoxyquin by oral intubation and were sacrificed at various time intervals from 0.5 hr to 6 days following administration of the drug. The distribution pattern was studied by whole-body autoradiography and liquid scintillation counting. The isotopelabelled antioxidant was distributed throoughout most tissues and the blood at 0.5 hr after administration. The highest radioactivity throughout the experimental period was observed in the liver, the kidney, the gastrointestinal tract and the adipose tissue. No activity was observed in the brain and the central nervous system. Of the dose ingested 2.2 and 0.2% were found in the liver at 0.5 hr and 6 days respectively following dosing. The hepatic peak in radioactivity was measured at 8 hrs and after 6 days 7.5% of this level was still present in the liver. Six days after administration residues of ethoxyquin and metabolites were also present in the kidney cortex, the intestines, the lung, various adipose tissue and blood.", "PMID": 433625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1682", "title": "Effects of m-xylene on human equilibrium measured with a quantitative method.", "content": "Swaying during normal upright posture in 17 young males and the effects of m-xylene exposure on the body sway of six of the 17 has been studied by a quantitative Romberg test, conducted with an equipment consisting of a strain gauge transducer platform and of an electronic unit. The exposures were conducted in a dynamic exposure chamber. The sway of the 17 subjects was larger when their eyes were closed than when they were open (P less than 0.001) indicating the importance of vision in the control of body balance. Exposure to a time-weighted average (TWA) concentration of 100 p.p.m. (4.1 mumol/l) of xylene with 200 p.p.m. (8.2 mumol/l) peaks had no observable effect on the body balance of the six subjects. Exposure to a TWA concentration of 200 p.p.m. of xylene with 400 p.p.m. (16.4 mumol/l) peaks--the corresponding mean concentration of xylene in venous blood being 29.1 +/- 3.2 mumol/l--clearly impaired the body balance of the six subjects. The impairment was most pronounced with the eyes closed (P = 0.016). The results suggest that human equilibrium is rather sensitive to effects of exposure to xylene.", "contents": "Effects of m-xylene on human equilibrium measured with a quantitative method. Swaying during normal upright posture in 17 young males and the effects of m-xylene exposure on the body sway of six of the 17 has been studied by a quantitative Romberg test, conducted with an equipment consisting of a strain gauge transducer platform and of an electronic unit. The exposures were conducted in a dynamic exposure chamber. The sway of the 17 subjects was larger when their eyes were closed than when they were open (P less than 0.001) indicating the importance of vision in the control of body balance. Exposure to a time-weighted average (TWA) concentration of 100 p.p.m. (4.1 mumol/l) of xylene with 200 p.p.m. (8.2 mumol/l) peaks had no observable effect on the body balance of the six subjects. Exposure to a TWA concentration of 200 p.p.m. of xylene with 400 p.p.m. (16.4 mumol/l) peaks--the corresponding mean concentration of xylene in venous blood being 29.1 +/- 3.2 mumol/l--clearly impaired the body balance of the six subjects. The impairment was most pronounced with the eyes closed (P = 0.016). The results suggest that human equilibrium is rather sensitive to effects of exposure to xylene.", "PMID": 433626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1683", "title": "Socio-economic status and prevalence of mental disorders in certain rural communities in India.", "content": "A psychiatric field-survey was conducted in three villages in West Bengal, India in order to correlate the prevalence of mental morbidity with the socio-economic status of the families. The sample was divided into four groups on the basis of religion or caste. Total morbidity had no statistically significant relationship with socio-economic status in any of the four groups. In the total sample it was directly related. Higher classes had significantly higher rates. Psychoses were not correlated with socio-economic status in any of the groups. Neuroses showed a significantly higher rate in the upper strata of two groups; in the other two groups the trend of prevalence was in the same direction. The four groups had significant differences in their rates of total morbidity. In all the groups females had a higher rate of mental morbidity. Psychoses, Neuroses and Depression were commoner in females and Schizophrenia was commoner in males.", "contents": "Socio-economic status and prevalence of mental disorders in certain rural communities in India. A psychiatric field-survey was conducted in three villages in West Bengal, India in order to correlate the prevalence of mental morbidity with the socio-economic status of the families. The sample was divided into four groups on the basis of religion or caste. Total morbidity had no statistically significant relationship with socio-economic status in any of the four groups. In the total sample it was directly related. Higher classes had significantly higher rates. Psychoses were not correlated with socio-economic status in any of the groups. Neuroses showed a significantly higher rate in the upper strata of two groups; in the other two groups the trend of prevalence was in the same direction. The four groups had significant differences in their rates of total morbidity. In all the groups females had a higher rate of mental morbidity. Psychoses, Neuroses and Depression were commoner in females and Schizophrenia was commoner in males.", "PMID": 433627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1684", "title": "Mental health in the middle-aged population.", "content": "In the general health screening carried out 9 September 1973--11 January 1974 in the municipality of S\u00e4kyl\u00e4 in Southwest Finland as part of the S\u00e4kyl\u00e4-K\u00f6yli\u00f6 project, the current self-perceived psychological symptomatology of the population between the ages of 40 and 64 years (a total of 2,431 persons) was measured by the questionnaire developed by Goldberg. With a participation rate of 93.3%, the study revealed that 21% of those who took part suffered from psychological symptoms. In the subjects 50 years old or over these symptoms were nearly twice as common as in those under 50 years. Mental symptoms occurred most frequently in widowed and divorced persons as well as in pensioners and the unemployed. An increase in income and/or education appeared to be related to a decline in psychosymptomatology. In the municipality of K\u00f6yli\u00f6, with a less developed social organization, the frequency of psychological symptoms was 1.5 times that obtained for the more highly developed S\u00e4kyl\u00e4.", "contents": "Mental health in the middle-aged population. In the general health screening carried out 9 September 1973--11 January 1974 in the municipality of S\u00e4kyl\u00e4 in Southwest Finland as part of the S\u00e4kyl\u00e4-K\u00f6yli\u00f6 project, the current self-perceived psychological symptomatology of the population between the ages of 40 and 64 years (a total of 2,431 persons) was measured by the questionnaire developed by Goldberg. With a participation rate of 93.3%, the study revealed that 21% of those who took part suffered from psychological symptoms. In the subjects 50 years old or over these symptoms were nearly twice as common as in those under 50 years. Mental symptoms occurred most frequently in widowed and divorced persons as well as in pensioners and the unemployed. An increase in income and/or education appeared to be related to a decline in psychosymptomatology. In the municipality of K\u00f6yli\u00f6, with a less developed social organization, the frequency of psychological symptoms was 1.5 times that obtained for the more highly developed S\u00e4kyl\u00e4.", "PMID": 433628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1685", "title": "Lithium treatment and glucose tolerance in manic-melancholic patients.", "content": "Intravenous glucose tolerance was measured in manic-melancholic patients given one daily lithium-dose for relapse prevention. It was found that glucose tolerance was increased for some hours after each lithium administration. In the first week of treatment glucose disposal rate was increased up to 12 h after lithium ingestion. In long-term treated patients glucose tolerance was increased 2 h after administration but not 12 h after. Fasting glucose was increased 2 h after lithium administration in long-term treated patients. Concomitant changes in lactate triglycerides, free-glycerol and electrolytes were measured in serum.", "contents": "Lithium treatment and glucose tolerance in manic-melancholic patients. Intravenous glucose tolerance was measured in manic-melancholic patients given one daily lithium-dose for relapse prevention. It was found that glucose tolerance was increased for some hours after each lithium administration. In the first week of treatment glucose disposal rate was increased up to 12 h after lithium ingestion. In long-term treated patients glucose tolerance was increased 2 h after administration but not 12 h after. Fasting glucose was increased 2 h after lithium administration in long-term treated patients. Concomitant changes in lactate triglycerides, free-glycerol and electrolytes were measured in serum.", "PMID": 433629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1686", "title": "Discriminators between neurotics who die and neurotics who live.", "content": "An increased death rate has been found in patients treated in hospital for neurosis but the reasons for this are not known. A case note study is described in which 37 patients who were treated in hospital for neurosis and subsequently died are compared with a cross-matched sample of treated neurotics who were alive at follow-up. Measures believed to indicate greater severity of neurosis were found to be significantly higher in the experimental (dead) group than in the control (living) group.", "contents": "Discriminators between neurotics who die and neurotics who live. An increased death rate has been found in patients treated in hospital for neurosis but the reasons for this are not known. A case note study is described in which 37 patients who were treated in hospital for neurosis and subsequently died are compared with a cross-matched sample of treated neurotics who were alive at follow-up. Measures believed to indicate greater severity of neurosis were found to be significantly higher in the experimental (dead) group than in the control (living) group.", "PMID": 433630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1687", "title": "Termination of the drug career. An interview study of 58 ex-addicts.", "content": "Fifty-eight ex-addicts, representing 87% of a group found to be drug-free at an earlier 3-year follow-up, have been the target group of an interview study, which aimed at elucidating various phases of the drug career. It was found that drug abusers tend to break their drug-taking habits either early (before 2 years of abuse) or late (after 6 years or more). Those who abandoned the drug career early regarded giving up drugs as easy and had often been supported by relatives and drug-free friends. Their dominating reason for giving up drugs was adverse drug reactions, or infectious complications. Those who abandoned the career late reported that it had been a difficult process and that they had received little or no support from friends and relatives. To a large extent they had resorted to the aid of outpatient clinics. This group of ex-addicts gave as their most common reason for giving up drugs: they had grown tired of the life of a street addict. The considerable number of critics of psychiatric inpatient treatment (74% rated inpatient clinics as moderately important or unimportant) casts doubt on present treatment approaches. A simplified clinical description of the drug carrer is given, where attention is focussed on three stages within the process of de-addiction.", "contents": "Termination of the drug career. An interview study of 58 ex-addicts. Fifty-eight ex-addicts, representing 87% of a group found to be drug-free at an earlier 3-year follow-up, have been the target group of an interview study, which aimed at elucidating various phases of the drug career. It was found that drug abusers tend to break their drug-taking habits either early (before 2 years of abuse) or late (after 6 years or more). Those who abandoned the drug career early regarded giving up drugs as easy and had often been supported by relatives and drug-free friends. Their dominating reason for giving up drugs was adverse drug reactions, or infectious complications. Those who abandoned the career late reported that it had been a difficult process and that they had received little or no support from friends and relatives. To a large extent they had resorted to the aid of outpatient clinics. This group of ex-addicts gave as their most common reason for giving up drugs: they had grown tired of the life of a street addict. The considerable number of critics of psychiatric inpatient treatment (74% rated inpatient clinics as moderately important or unimportant) casts doubt on present treatment approaches. A simplified clinical description of the drug carrer is given, where attention is focussed on three stages within the process of de-addiction.", "PMID": 433631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1688", "title": "Psychotic symptoms in normal-pressure hydrocephalus.", "content": "Two patients with a psychiatric history of about 20 years, and clinical and neuroradiological signs of normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) are reported. One had a periodic psychosis subsequent to a tuberculous meningitis, and this overshadowed the slight classical symptoms of NPH. She had received at least 120 treatments with electro-convulsive therapy. The second patient suffered from a paranoid psychosis; other signs of NPH were moderate though progressive. Both patients showed definite improvement of their NPH symptoms after ventriculo-atrial shunting, and psychotic symptoms ceased totally. Follow-up was 5 years for the patient with periodic psychosis. The other patient died from septicaemia 2.5 years after shunting. A large-scale screening of patients with psychiatric symptoms or dementia, particularly when combined with gait disturbance, should be done by using computerized tomography. Patients suspected of having NPH should then be referred for further examination with the aim of selecting patients suitable for shunting. These measures seem well motivated from humanitarian as well as economic points of view.", "contents": "Psychotic symptoms in normal-pressure hydrocephalus. Two patients with a psychiatric history of about 20 years, and clinical and neuroradiological signs of normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) are reported. One had a periodic psychosis subsequent to a tuberculous meningitis, and this overshadowed the slight classical symptoms of NPH. She had received at least 120 treatments with electro-convulsive therapy. The second patient suffered from a paranoid psychosis; other signs of NPH were moderate though progressive. Both patients showed definite improvement of their NPH symptoms after ventriculo-atrial shunting, and psychotic symptoms ceased totally. Follow-up was 5 years for the patient with periodic psychosis. The other patient died from septicaemia 2.5 years after shunting. A large-scale screening of patients with psychiatric symptoms or dementia, particularly when combined with gait disturbance, should be done by using computerized tomography. Patients suspected of having NPH should then be referred for further examination with the aim of selecting patients suitable for shunting. These measures seem well motivated from humanitarian as well as economic points of view.", "PMID": 433632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1689", "title": "The Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Scale and the Hamilton Depression Scale.", "content": "In a study of 18 patients with manic symptomatology and 31 patients with melancholic symptomatology the Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Scale (BRMS) and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HDS) have been compared. The results showed that the inter-observer reliability of the BRMS was adequate compared with the HDS. Both scales are constructed for assessing the severity of manic or melancholic states, and no difference was found in the total BRMS or HDS score between the various diagnostic groups, when the patients were classified by an index of the course and symptomatology otive disorder, using the Multi-axial Classificetion System for Affective Disorders (MULTI-CLAD). The homogeneity of the BRMS seemed more adequate than that of the HDS, when each item was correlated to the corresponding total score. Although the homogeneity of the BRMS needs to be evaluated by other statistical models than correlation analysis, our results seem to indicate that the improvement in assessing manic-melancholic states quantitatively is a matter of redefining items or incorporating new items in the melancholic rather than the manic part of these rating scales.", "contents": "The Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Scale and the Hamilton Depression Scale. In a study of 18 patients with manic symptomatology and 31 patients with melancholic symptomatology the Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Scale (BRMS) and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HDS) have been compared. The results showed that the inter-observer reliability of the BRMS was adequate compared with the HDS. Both scales are constructed for assessing the severity of manic or melancholic states, and no difference was found in the total BRMS or HDS score between the various diagnostic groups, when the patients were classified by an index of the course and symptomatology otive disorder, using the Multi-axial Classificetion System for Affective Disorders (MULTI-CLAD). The homogeneity of the BRMS seemed more adequate than that of the HDS, when each item was correlated to the corresponding total score. Although the homogeneity of the BRMS needs to be evaluated by other statistical models than correlation analysis, our results seem to indicate that the improvement in assessing manic-melancholic states quantitatively is a matter of redefining items or incorporating new items in the melancholic rather than the manic part of these rating scales.", "PMID": 433633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1690", "title": "Mortality in psychiatric hospitals in Norway 1950--74.", "content": "The present investigation comprises all deaths in Norwegian psychiatric hospitals 1950--74: 10,413 deaths. Mortality in men declined from 361 per 10,000 before 1950 to 252 per 10,000 in 1969--74 and in women from 324 per 10,000 to 215 per 10,000 during the same periods. In the organic and symptomatic psychoses (mainly senile and arteriosclerotic) mortality ranged from six to ten times that of the general population, whereas in the non-organic (functional) psychoses mortality was only twice as high as in the general population. This discrepancy in mortality between organic and non-organic psychoses, which is caused by the somatic disorders with high lethality underlying the organic psychoses, suggests that mortality should be calculated separately for organic and non-organic psychoses, which is sometimes neglected. An increasing number of hospital admissions with organic, mainly senile, psychoses is to be expected in the future, as well as an increasing proportion of non-organic patients with slight psychotic symptoms and a low and possibly decreasing mortality. between 1950 and 1974 radical changes took place in the psychiatric hospitals which could have influenced mortality. Age-adjusted death rates from cardio-vascular diseases were actually higher in 1963--68 than in 1950--62, possibly indicating that an adverse effect of drug therapy on physical activity and somatic fitness had outweighed the stress-relieving effect. A significant rise in unnatural deaths (suicides and accidents) has been observed particularly since 1963. As in previous investigations from Norway 1926--41, cancer as cause of death was equal to or below the general population in the non-organic psychoses and somewhat higher in the organic psychoses.", "contents": "Mortality in psychiatric hospitals in Norway 1950--74. The present investigation comprises all deaths in Norwegian psychiatric hospitals 1950--74: 10,413 deaths. Mortality in men declined from 361 per 10,000 before 1950 to 252 per 10,000 in 1969--74 and in women from 324 per 10,000 to 215 per 10,000 during the same periods. In the organic and symptomatic psychoses (mainly senile and arteriosclerotic) mortality ranged from six to ten times that of the general population, whereas in the non-organic (functional) psychoses mortality was only twice as high as in the general population. This discrepancy in mortality between organic and non-organic psychoses, which is caused by the somatic disorders with high lethality underlying the organic psychoses, suggests that mortality should be calculated separately for organic and non-organic psychoses, which is sometimes neglected. An increasing number of hospital admissions with organic, mainly senile, psychoses is to be expected in the future, as well as an increasing proportion of non-organic patients with slight psychotic symptoms and a low and possibly decreasing mortality. between 1950 and 1974 radical changes took place in the psychiatric hospitals which could have influenced mortality. Age-adjusted death rates from cardio-vascular diseases were actually higher in 1963--68 than in 1950--62, possibly indicating that an adverse effect of drug therapy on physical activity and somatic fitness had outweighed the stress-relieving effect. A significant rise in unnatural deaths (suicides and accidents) has been observed particularly since 1963. As in previous investigations from Norway 1926--41, cancer as cause of death was equal to or below the general population in the non-organic psychoses and somewhat higher in the organic psychoses.", "PMID": 433634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1691", "title": "Effect of ionic and non-ionic contrast media on red cell deformability in vitro.", "content": "The effect on red cell deformability from solutions of the ionic contrast media diatrizoate, iocarmate and metrizoate and the non-ionic metrizamide and hypertonic saline (1.5 osm) was investigated by measuring the flow rate of 10% red cell suspension (VRBC) and of plasma (Vplasma) through Nucleopore sieves of 5 micrometer in diameter. By calculating the relative flow rate Vrel (VRBC/Vplasma) the deformability of the red cell was quantified. Both the contrast media solutions and the hypertonic saline solution decreased the Vrel, indicating an increased rigidity of the red cell. The increased rigidity was due mainly to the osmotic effect. The higher the osmolality, the more the deformability was reduced. The low osmotic metrizamide induced a smaller reduction in red cell deformability compared to ionic media of high osmolality in iodine-equivalent concentration.", "contents": "Effect of ionic and non-ionic contrast media on red cell deformability in vitro. The effect on red cell deformability from solutions of the ionic contrast media diatrizoate, iocarmate and metrizoate and the non-ionic metrizamide and hypertonic saline (1.5 osm) was investigated by measuring the flow rate of 10% red cell suspension (VRBC) and of plasma (Vplasma) through Nucleopore sieves of 5 micrometer in diameter. By calculating the relative flow rate Vrel (VRBC/Vplasma) the deformability of the red cell was quantified. Both the contrast media solutions and the hypertonic saline solution decreased the Vrel, indicating an increased rigidity of the red cell. The increased rigidity was due mainly to the osmotic effect. The higher the osmolality, the more the deformability was reduced. The low osmotic metrizamide induced a smaller reduction in red cell deformability compared to ionic media of high osmolality in iodine-equivalent concentration.", "PMID": 433635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1692", "title": "Occlusion of the carotid artery using catheter with detachable balloon in pigs.", "content": "A new catheter with detachable balloon for vascular occlusion was successfully used for permanent occlusion of the internal carotid artery as well as branches of the external carotid artery in 5 pigs. The technique is intended for clinical use in man.", "contents": "Occlusion of the carotid artery using catheter with detachable balloon in pigs. A new catheter with detachable balloon for vascular occlusion was successfully used for permanent occlusion of the internal carotid artery as well as branches of the external carotid artery in 5 pigs. The technique is intended for clinical use in man.", "PMID": 433636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1693", "title": "Placenta scintigraphy using markers of the uterine cervix and pelvic skeleton.", "content": "A method of placenta scintigraphy is described which provides a differential diagnosis between total and marginal placenta praevia. The uterine cervix, symphysis and 5th lumbar vertebra are included on the scintigram by means of atraumatic markers. Of 101 examined patients 6 had total placenta praevia and 12 marginal placenta praevia. No incorrect evaluation of the scans or complications occurred. The examination supplements ultrasound scanning in late pregnancy.", "contents": "Placenta scintigraphy using markers of the uterine cervix and pelvic skeleton. A method of placenta scintigraphy is described which provides a differential diagnosis between total and marginal placenta praevia. The uterine cervix, symphysis and 5th lumbar vertebra are included on the scintigram by means of atraumatic markers. Of 101 examined patients 6 had total placenta praevia and 12 marginal placenta praevia. No incorrect evaluation of the scans or complications occurred. The examination supplements ultrasound scanning in late pregnancy.", "PMID": 433638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1694", "title": "Quantity of tomographic blurring.", "content": "A spiral tomographic movement gives rise to a lower quantity of blurring than does a circular movement with the same tomographic angle since in the former the focus comes nearer to the central point. It has been demonstrated that the transfer function may be used to express the quantity of blurring for different tomographic movements. For the sake of convenience the blurring quantity for every type of spiral movement may be expressed in terms of the tomographic angle of a circular movement giving rise to the same transfer function.", "contents": "Quantity of tomographic blurring. A spiral tomographic movement gives rise to a lower quantity of blurring than does a circular movement with the same tomographic angle since in the former the focus comes nearer to the central point. It has been demonstrated that the transfer function may be used to express the quantity of blurring for different tomographic movements. For the sake of convenience the blurring quantity for every type of spiral movement may be expressed in terms of the tomographic angle of a circular movement giving rise to the same transfer function.", "PMID": 433639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1695", "title": "Energy imparted in roentgen diagnostic procedures. Results of two surveys during the periods 1958-1960 and 1974-1976 related to technical modifications.", "content": "A comparison of the energy imparted during diagnostic radiographic procedures at the University Hospital in Lund during 1958 to 1960 and during 1974 revealed an unexpected, low decrease during the intermediate period. The influence of various technical factors on the irradiation of the patient was estimated and attempts made to explain the discrepancy between expected and measured energy imparted during 1974 to 1976. Considering the growth in frequency of examinations from 1960 to 1975 an increase in the population irradiation from diagnostic radiology is deduced for that period. The consequences of an optimum use of the technical modifications could have led to a decrease.", "contents": "Energy imparted in roentgen diagnostic procedures. Results of two surveys during the periods 1958-1960 and 1974-1976 related to technical modifications. A comparison of the energy imparted during diagnostic radiographic procedures at the University Hospital in Lund during 1958 to 1960 and during 1974 revealed an unexpected, low decrease during the intermediate period. The influence of various technical factors on the irradiation of the patient was estimated and attempts made to explain the discrepancy between expected and measured energy imparted during 1974 to 1976. Considering the growth in frequency of examinations from 1960 to 1975 an increase in the population irradiation from diagnostic radiology is deduced for that period. The consequences of an optimum use of the technical modifications could have led to a decrease.", "PMID": 433640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1696", "title": "Proteinuria following nephroangiography. IV. Comparison in dogs between ionic and non-ionic contrast media.", "content": "The degree of albuminuria following hephroangiography with the ionic contrast medium Urografin, the non-ionic Amipaque and a recently synthesized non-ionic contrast medium with the code name C 29 was compared. Significantly less albuminuria was caused by C 29 than by the other two contrast media.", "contents": "Proteinuria following nephroangiography. IV. Comparison in dogs between ionic and non-ionic contrast media. The degree of albuminuria following hephroangiography with the ionic contrast medium Urografin, the non-ionic Amipaque and a recently synthesized non-ionic contrast medium with the code name C 29 was compared. Significantly less albuminuria was caused by C 29 than by the other two contrast media.", "PMID": 433641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1697", "title": "Image enhancement by digital-analog filtration. I. Technical description of device.", "content": "A device for general (10 x 10 pixels) image filtration of 24 cm x 30 cm roentgenograms in the image domain (10(6) pixels) is described. It combines analog and digital techniques and records the processed image on film in the same scale as the original. Results from preliminary tests of the equipment are reported and it is concluded that it yields images with increased perceptibility of large-scale objects of low photographic contrast in the presence of disturbing structures of high spatial frequency and comparably high photographic contrast.", "contents": "Image enhancement by digital-analog filtration. I. Technical description of device. A device for general (10 x 10 pixels) image filtration of 24 cm x 30 cm roentgenograms in the image domain (10(6) pixels) is described. It combines analog and digital techniques and records the processed image on film in the same scale as the original. Results from preliminary tests of the equipment are reported and it is concluded that it yields images with increased perceptibility of large-scale objects of low photographic contrast in the presence of disturbing structures of high spatial frequency and comparably high photographic contrast.", "PMID": 433643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1698", "title": "Excretion of sodium and methylglucamine diatrizoate after longtime unilateral ureteric stasis in the rabbit.", "content": "The excretion of sodium and meglumine diatrizoate was examined following one or two weeks of unilateral ureteric occlusion. No difference between the two diatrizoate salts was found. A slow compensatory increase of the function of the intact kidney occurred, but after two weeks it was still insufficient at high blood concentration levels.", "contents": "Excretion of sodium and methylglucamine diatrizoate after longtime unilateral ureteric stasis in the rabbit. The excretion of sodium and meglumine diatrizoate was examined following one or two weeks of unilateral ureteric occlusion. No difference between the two diatrizoate salts was found. A slow compensatory increase of the function of the intact kidney occurred, but after two weeks it was still insufficient at high blood concentration levels.", "PMID": 433644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1699", "title": "Volume of distribution of contrast media in blood.", "content": "The volume of distribution of diatrizoate and iodipamide in blood in relation to hematocrit and contrast concentration was measured using 125I-labeled compounds. In concentration obtained after intravenous injection, the percentage volume of distribution of both contrast media is 100 minus hematocrit, except for high hematocrit values, which may cause uneven distribution of contrast media in smaller concentrations. No evidence of intracellular penetration was obtained.", "contents": "Volume of distribution of contrast media in blood. The volume of distribution of diatrizoate and iodipamide in blood in relation to hematocrit and contrast concentration was measured using 125I-labeled compounds. In concentration obtained after intravenous injection, the percentage volume of distribution of both contrast media is 100 minus hematocrit, except for high hematocrit values, which may cause uneven distribution of contrast media in smaller concentrations. No evidence of intracellular penetration was obtained.", "PMID": 433645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1700", "title": "Metrizamide in high-dose urography.", "content": "The non-ionic water-soluble contrast medium metrizamide (Amipaque) was used for high-dose urography in 11 patients with apparently normal renal function. Films of good quality were obtained. Adverse reactions and the effect on pulse and blood pressure as well as a large number of blood and urine laboratory parameters were recorded. Only clinically insignificant effects occurred, and the medium is recommended for further use in urography.", "contents": "Metrizamide in high-dose urography. The non-ionic water-soluble contrast medium metrizamide (Amipaque) was used for high-dose urography in 11 patients with apparently normal renal function. Films of good quality were obtained. Adverse reactions and the effect on pulse and blood pressure as well as a large number of blood and urine laboratory parameters were recorded. Only clinically insignificant effects occurred, and the medium is recommended for further use in urography.", "PMID": 433646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1701", "title": "Thrombosis following phlebography with ionic and non-ionic contrast media.", "content": "The side-effects at phlebography of the lower limb were evaluated using an ionic contrast medium, meglumine-metrizoate, and a non-ionic contrast medium, metrizamide. A post-phlebographic accumulation of 125I-fibrinogen was found in 6 patients examined with meglumine-metrizoate indicating a post-phlebographic thrombosis. Ten patients were examined with metrizamide with no post-phlebographic increase in 125I-fibrinogen uptake. Though the groups are small the difference is statistically significant at the 0.2 per cent level.", "contents": "Thrombosis following phlebography with ionic and non-ionic contrast media. The side-effects at phlebography of the lower limb were evaluated using an ionic contrast medium, meglumine-metrizoate, and a non-ionic contrast medium, metrizamide. A post-phlebographic accumulation of 125I-fibrinogen was found in 6 patients examined with meglumine-metrizoate indicating a post-phlebographic thrombosis. Ten patients were examined with metrizamide with no post-phlebographic increase in 125I-fibrinogen uptake. Though the groups are small the difference is statistically significant at the 0.2 per cent level.", "PMID": 433647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1702", "title": "Radiologic heart volume and subsequent mortality.", "content": "In the London Civil Service Health Survey, both p.a. and lateral 100 mm chest films were taken on 12,630 men aged 40 and above. Radiologic heart volume was calculated on a 10 per cent sample and to the sample were added the films of all other subjects from the cohort who had died within 5 years of the survey, or more than 5 years afterwards. Radiologic heart volume could be calculated on 1,390 subjects of whom 233 had died within 5 years, and 47 after 5 years had elapsed. For deaths within the first 5 years there was a stepwise increase in mortality with increasing quintile of heart volume. Radiologic heart volume predicts death from cardiovascular disease both within 5 years of estimation and for deaths occurring more than 5 years after examination.", "contents": "Radiologic heart volume and subsequent mortality. In the London Civil Service Health Survey, both p.a. and lateral 100 mm chest films were taken on 12,630 men aged 40 and above. Radiologic heart volume was calculated on a 10 per cent sample and to the sample were added the films of all other subjects from the cohort who had died within 5 years of the survey, or more than 5 years afterwards. Radiologic heart volume could be calculated on 1,390 subjects of whom 233 had died within 5 years, and 47 after 5 years had elapsed. For deaths within the first 5 years there was a stepwise increase in mortality with increasing quintile of heart volume. Radiologic heart volume predicts death from cardiovascular disease both within 5 years of estimation and for deaths occurring more than 5 years after examination.", "PMID": 433650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1703", "title": "Facial bone scintigraphy. III. Effects of radiation therapy.", "content": "The uptake of 99Tcm-DP in normal facial bones was not changed by irradiation of malignant tumors. The intensity of the pathologic uptake into regions with active parodontitis in a few patients increased during irradiation. The uptake of 99Tcm-DP in bone with neoplastic growth varied during the period of treatment, probably depending on the tumor reaction to irradiation.", "contents": "Facial bone scintigraphy. III. Effects of radiation therapy. The uptake of 99Tcm-DP in normal facial bones was not changed by irradiation of malignant tumors. The intensity of the pathologic uptake into regions with active parodontitis in a few patients increased during irradiation. The uptake of 99Tcm-DP in bone with neoplastic growth varied during the period of treatment, probably depending on the tumor reaction to irradiation.", "PMID": 433651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1704", "title": "Arthrography in dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint.", "content": "Arthrography was performed in 10 patients with dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. The examination was unsuccessful in one case. In the remaining 9 patients, leakage of the contrast medium was observed around the joint and in the direction of the coracoid process. The arthrographic abnormalities were compared with the findings at operation. The distribution of the medium that had leaked out provided information on the severity of the injury to the ligaments.", "contents": "Arthrography in dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. Arthrography was performed in 10 patients with dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. The examination was unsuccessful in one case. In the remaining 9 patients, leakage of the contrast medium was observed around the joint and in the direction of the coracoid process. The arthrographic abnormalities were compared with the findings at operation. The distribution of the medium that had leaked out provided information on the severity of the injury to the ligaments.", "PMID": 433652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1705", "title": "Arthrosis of the ankle evaluated on films in weight-bearing position.", "content": "About 7 years after a malleolar fracture 113 patients were examined for development of arthrosis. The addition of films exposed in weight-bearing position with a.p. beam direction to views of the ankle joint exposed in supine position did not contribute to the diagnosis of arthrosis.", "contents": "Arthrosis of the ankle evaluated on films in weight-bearing position. About 7 years after a malleolar fracture 113 patients were examined for development of arthrosis. The addition of films exposed in weight-bearing position with a.p. beam direction to views of the ankle joint exposed in supine position did not contribute to the diagnosis of arthrosis.", "PMID": 433653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1706", "title": "Equivalence of quantitative models for tumour response to ionizing radiation in treatment field optimisation procedures.", "content": "Three cell kinetic models of tumour response to ionising radiation were compared with regard to their prediction of variation in curability when the dose to the tumour varied between 54 and 66 Gy given in 30 fractions. It was found that a simple model emulated the results of the more complex ones when the parameters of the simple model were properly adjusted. A comparison of the simple model and the CRE formula gave a similar result.", "contents": "Equivalence of quantitative models for tumour response to ionizing radiation in treatment field optimisation procedures. Three cell kinetic models of tumour response to ionising radiation were compared with regard to their prediction of variation in curability when the dose to the tumour varied between 54 and 66 Gy given in 30 fractions. It was found that a simple model emulated the results of the more complex ones when the parameters of the simple model were properly adjusted. A comparison of the simple model and the CRE formula gave a similar result.", "PMID": 433654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1707", "title": "Optimum fractionation for irradiation of carcinoma of the bladder. Experiments based on one case.", "content": "A patient with multiple metastases of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder to the skin and subcutaneous tissues proved a model where most of the biologic and host-related factors were constant. The effects of varying the physical factors of radiation dose and time were observed. The results indicate that fractionated irradiation at intervals of 48 h was more effective than at intervals of 24 h and that superfractionation (intervals of 5 h) was not an effective method for the treatment of this tumor. The possible reasons for this effect and the implication for the treatment of bladder carcinoma are discussed.", "contents": "Optimum fractionation for irradiation of carcinoma of the bladder. Experiments based on one case. A patient with multiple metastases of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder to the skin and subcutaneous tissues proved a model where most of the biologic and host-related factors were constant. The effects of varying the physical factors of radiation dose and time were observed. The results indicate that fractionated irradiation at intervals of 48 h was more effective than at intervals of 24 h and that superfractionation (intervals of 5 h) was not an effective method for the treatment of this tumor. The possible reasons for this effect and the implication for the treatment of bladder carcinoma are discussed.", "PMID": 433655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1708", "title": "New primary malignant tumors in patients treated for carcinoma of the uterine cervix or corpus.", "content": "Subsequent primary malignancy was revealed in 1.8 per cent of 2, 689 cases with cervical and in 1.7 per cent of 773 cases with corpus carcinoma. In the cervical carcinoma series the most frequent new primary sites were the skin, breast and recto-sigmoid. Of the cases with cervical and corpus carcinoma 18.8 and 30.7 per cent, respectively, had a family history of malignant disease.", "contents": "New primary malignant tumors in patients treated for carcinoma of the uterine cervix or corpus. Subsequent primary malignancy was revealed in 1.8 per cent of 2, 689 cases with cervical and in 1.7 per cent of 773 cases with corpus carcinoma. In the cervical carcinoma series the most frequent new primary sites were the skin, breast and recto-sigmoid. Of the cases with cervical and corpus carcinoma 18.8 and 30.7 per cent, respectively, had a family history of malignant disease.", "PMID": 433656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1709", "title": "Pharmacologic effects of radiation protective compounds related to their protective effect in mice.", "content": "Effects of presumptive radiation protective substances on physiologic criteria such as oxygen consumption, rectal temperature, respiratory and acoustic response are described. The rate of oxygen consumption and rectal temperature cannot entirely be considered a reliable measure of radiation protection. Some substances cause a decrease in the investigated parameters, strong enough to incapacitate the treated individuals severely. This limits the use of such substances. It is suggested that not only the effect on the survival but also the metabolic effects on the organism caused by the substance have to be investigated.", "contents": "Pharmacologic effects of radiation protective compounds related to their protective effect in mice. Effects of presumptive radiation protective substances on physiologic criteria such as oxygen consumption, rectal temperature, respiratory and acoustic response are described. The rate of oxygen consumption and rectal temperature cannot entirely be considered a reliable measure of radiation protection. Some substances cause a decrease in the investigated parameters, strong enough to incapacitate the treated individuals severely. This limits the use of such substances. It is suggested that not only the effect on the survival but also the metabolic effects on the organism caused by the substance have to be investigated.", "PMID": 433657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1710", "title": "Cell survival description of the cumulative radiation effect.", "content": "An equation is proposed to link the Cumulative Radiation Effect (CRE) scale of radiation damage with the fraction of basal cells surviving after irradiation of skin epithelium. The model assumes an expression for the basal cell survival curve which fits the various hit-target models over the range of doses found in clinical practice. The model is consistent with CRE in the dependence on total treatment dose and fractionation number. A 'first order' analysis using a Gompertzian re-growth of cells also yields reasonable agreement with the CRE equation in time dependence during treatment and during a gap. This model is suitable for acute skin reactions but not necessarily for late effects in connective tissue.", "contents": "Cell survival description of the cumulative radiation effect. An equation is proposed to link the Cumulative Radiation Effect (CRE) scale of radiation damage with the fraction of basal cells surviving after irradiation of skin epithelium. The model assumes an expression for the basal cell survival curve which fits the various hit-target models over the range of doses found in clinical practice. The model is consistent with CRE in the dependence on total treatment dose and fractionation number. A 'first order' analysis using a Gompertzian re-growth of cells also yields reasonable agreement with the CRE equation in time dependence during treatment and during a gap. This model is suitable for acute skin reactions but not necessarily for late effects in connective tissue.", "PMID": 433658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1711", "title": "Protective effect of hypoxia against radiation induced fibrosis in the rat gut.", "content": "The protective effect of hypoxia, induced by degradable microspheres, against the development of fibrosis was investigated after single-dose irradiation of exteriorized rat ileum. Evaluation, based upon microscopy and analysis of hydroxyproline in protected and nonprotected gut segments, demonstrated an evident protective effect at doses of 15 to 25 Gy.", "contents": "Protective effect of hypoxia against radiation induced fibrosis in the rat gut. The protective effect of hypoxia, induced by degradable microspheres, against the development of fibrosis was investigated after single-dose irradiation of exteriorized rat ileum. Evaluation, based upon microscopy and analysis of hydroxyproline in protected and nonprotected gut segments, demonstrated an evident protective effect at doses of 15 to 25 Gy.", "PMID": 433659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1712", "title": "Cytologic diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis.", "content": "In specimens obtained by fine needle thyroid puncture it is possible to define cytologic criteria of toxic goiter. This cytologic picture is compound but the authors describe marginal vacuolization and nuclear ring patterns in follicular wall fragments as fairly specific signs of thyroid hyperfunction. Thyroid puncture is hardly a measure of choice in the routine clinical evaluation of hyperthyrosis but some case histories demonstrate that due attention to the cytologic picture of toxic goiter is profitable also when the puncture was made with quite other indications.", "contents": "Cytologic diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis. In specimens obtained by fine needle thyroid puncture it is possible to define cytologic criteria of toxic goiter. This cytologic picture is compound but the authors describe marginal vacuolization and nuclear ring patterns in follicular wall fragments as fairly specific signs of thyroid hyperfunction. Thyroid puncture is hardly a measure of choice in the routine clinical evaluation of hyperthyrosis but some case histories demonstrate that due attention to the cytologic picture of toxic goiter is profitable also when the puncture was made with quite other indications.", "PMID": 433661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1713", "title": "The influence of endogenous cortisol on the peripheral conversion of thyroxine in patients with acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "A study was performed to elucidate whether endogenous cortisol, as previously suggested, could be responsible for the decreased T3 levels seen in euthyroid patients with acute myocardial infarction. Levels of these hormones as well as levels of T4 and reverse-T3 were monitored in 31 consecutive patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit with symptoms of precordial pain or with acute arrhythmias. Sixteen of the patients had proven myocardial infarction, the remaining 15 were used as a control group. The results demonstrated that a reduction of T3 levels was seen in the infarction group without evidence of a statistically significant difference between the daily mean cortisol levels. No significant difference could be observed in T4 or reverse-T3 levels in the two groups or in T3 levels in the control group. It is concluded that the decrease in T3 levels is not a consequence of the increased levels of endogenous cortisol.", "contents": "The influence of endogenous cortisol on the peripheral conversion of thyroxine in patients with acute myocardial infarction. A study was performed to elucidate whether endogenous cortisol, as previously suggested, could be responsible for the decreased T3 levels seen in euthyroid patients with acute myocardial infarction. Levels of these hormones as well as levels of T4 and reverse-T3 were monitored in 31 consecutive patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit with symptoms of precordial pain or with acute arrhythmias. Sixteen of the patients had proven myocardial infarction, the remaining 15 were used as a control group. The results demonstrated that a reduction of T3 levels was seen in the infarction group without evidence of a statistically significant difference between the daily mean cortisol levels. No significant difference could be observed in T4 or reverse-T3 levels in the two groups or in T3 levels in the control group. It is concluded that the decrease in T3 levels is not a consequence of the increased levels of endogenous cortisol.", "PMID": 433662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1714", "title": "Occurrence of acute myocardial infarction in Stockholm studied by two different methods.", "content": "Two studies on the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in Stockholm have been made. In one, the study population consisted of patients who attended a health-control station; cases of AMI were detected retrospectively by a mail questionnaire and by the official cause-of-death register. In the other study, the population comprised the total population of Stockholm county; cases of AMI were detected from routine information on hospital care, and from the official cause-of-death register. The aims of the present study were to compare the two methods for detection of AMI cases and to compare the AMI morbidity of the two populations. The mail questionnaire method missed a small number of cases but, on the other hand, the register method included some cases in which the diagnostic criteria were not fulfilled. The AMI morbidity in the two populations did not differ significantly.", "contents": "Occurrence of acute myocardial infarction in Stockholm studied by two different methods. Two studies on the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in Stockholm have been made. In one, the study population consisted of patients who attended a health-control station; cases of AMI were detected retrospectively by a mail questionnaire and by the official cause-of-death register. In the other study, the population comprised the total population of Stockholm county; cases of AMI were detected from routine information on hospital care, and from the official cause-of-death register. The aims of the present study were to compare the two methods for detection of AMI cases and to compare the AMI morbidity of the two populations. The mail questionnaire method missed a small number of cases but, on the other hand, the register method included some cases in which the diagnostic criteria were not fulfilled. The AMI morbidity in the two populations did not differ significantly.", "PMID": 433663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1715", "title": "Angina pectoris in aortic valvular disease and its relation to coronary pathology.", "content": "Angina pectoris is a common symptom in aortic valvular disease. In our study of 100 consecutive patients it was found more commonly in patients with aortic stenosis than in those with aortic insufficiency. Only 21 of 80 patients with angina pectoris had significant narrowing (more that 75%) of one or several coronary arteries. Angina pectoris in aortic valvular disease thus seems to be most often functional due to disproportion between myocardial oxygen supply and demand. On the other hand, 5 of 20 patients without angina pectoris had significant coronary artery stenosis. As coronary artery involvement may jeopardize the results of aortic valve replacement in these patients, coronary angiography should always be carried out in patients evaluated for surgery of aortic vavlular disease. Coronary bypass surgery should be carried out during the same operation if the stenosis is severe and bypass is technically feasible.", "contents": "Angina pectoris in aortic valvular disease and its relation to coronary pathology. Angina pectoris is a common symptom in aortic valvular disease. In our study of 100 consecutive patients it was found more commonly in patients with aortic stenosis than in those with aortic insufficiency. Only 21 of 80 patients with angina pectoris had significant narrowing (more that 75%) of one or several coronary arteries. Angina pectoris in aortic valvular disease thus seems to be most often functional due to disproportion between myocardial oxygen supply and demand. On the other hand, 5 of 20 patients without angina pectoris had significant coronary artery stenosis. As coronary artery involvement may jeopardize the results of aortic valve replacement in these patients, coronary angiography should always be carried out in patients evaluated for surgery of aortic vavlular disease. Coronary bypass surgery should be carried out during the same operation if the stenosis is severe and bypass is technically feasible.", "PMID": 433664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1716", "title": "Oesophageal dysfunction in non-infarction coronary care unit patients.", "content": "Oesophageal dysfunction (OD) is a common finding in patients discharged from a coronary care unit without definite diagnosis. Of 55 patients investigated with oesophageal manometry, acid perfusion test and exercise ECG, 32 had signs of OD and 19 signs of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Symptoms such as heart burn, acid regurgitations, feeling of a lump in the throat, surfeitness after meals, chest pain at night, and relief of chest pain when lying with the head raised were significantly more common in patients with OD than in patients with normal oesophageal function. Chest pain was significantly more often provoked by effort, emotions or cold and more often relieved by nitroglycerine in patients with signs of IHD than in those without. These pain-provoking factors were, however, also common in patients with OD. A careful case history with specific inquiry directed at not only cardiac but also oesophageal symptoms is important in the differential diagnosis of chest pain.", "contents": "Oesophageal dysfunction in non-infarction coronary care unit patients. Oesophageal dysfunction (OD) is a common finding in patients discharged from a coronary care unit without definite diagnosis. Of 55 patients investigated with oesophageal manometry, acid perfusion test and exercise ECG, 32 had signs of OD and 19 signs of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Symptoms such as heart burn, acid regurgitations, feeling of a lump in the throat, surfeitness after meals, chest pain at night, and relief of chest pain when lying with the head raised were significantly more common in patients with OD than in patients with normal oesophageal function. Chest pain was significantly more often provoked by effort, emotions or cold and more often relieved by nitroglycerine in patients with signs of IHD than in those without. These pain-provoking factors were, however, also common in patients with OD. A careful case history with specific inquiry directed at not only cardiac but also oesophageal symptoms is important in the differential diagnosis of chest pain.", "PMID": 433665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1717", "title": "Micromethods for analysis of lipids in endomyocardial biopsy specimens.", "content": "Triglycerides and phospholipids extracted from endomyocardial biopsy specimens were quantitated with sensitive photometric methods and the fatty acid composition of phospholipids was determined after separation of the methyl esters by gas chromatography. The degree of triglyceride accumulation was expressed as the molar ratio triglyceride/phospholipid since in most cases the phospholipid concentration is relatively constant. The representativity of the analysis of endomyocardial biopsy was investigated by comparing lipid analyses of large and small myocardial specimens obtained at necropsy. The methods described may be valuable tools in studies on metabolic disturbances in different cardiomyophaties.", "contents": "Micromethods for analysis of lipids in endomyocardial biopsy specimens. Triglycerides and phospholipids extracted from endomyocardial biopsy specimens were quantitated with sensitive photometric methods and the fatty acid composition of phospholipids was determined after separation of the methyl esters by gas chromatography. The degree of triglyceride accumulation was expressed as the molar ratio triglyceride/phospholipid since in most cases the phospholipid concentration is relatively constant. The representativity of the analysis of endomyocardial biopsy was investigated by comparing lipid analyses of large and small myocardial specimens obtained at necropsy. The methods described may be valuable tools in studies on metabolic disturbances in different cardiomyophaties.", "PMID": 433666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1718", "title": "Circumstances around the onset of a myocardial infarction. A study of factors relevant to the perception of symptoms and to the delay in arriving at a coronary care unit.", "content": "Psychosocial factors, experienced pain and anxiety in relation to patient delay were studied in 100 patients admitted for suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). More severe pain was reported by women, by those who had recently consulted a physician, who experienced severe anxiety, who fell ill away from their place of work, or who possessed little medical knowledge. These patients tried to get relief from pain by resting. Patients experiencing more severe anxiety were younger, had not consulted a physician recently, had poor medical knowledge, belonged to lower socio-economic groups or were impatient. These patients also sought relief from pain by resting. Pain, but not anxiety, was related to delay. Long delay was seen more often in patients who did not believe they had suffered an AMI and who were psychologically inactive prior to the onset of pain. Recent physician consultation, failure to call for help and belonging to lower socio-economic groups were also related to long delay. Medical knowledge was unrelated to patient delay. Patients with a low degree of pain rarely reported considerable anxiety, whereas several patients with severe pain had little or no anxiety.", "contents": "Circumstances around the onset of a myocardial infarction. A study of factors relevant to the perception of symptoms and to the delay in arriving at a coronary care unit. Psychosocial factors, experienced pain and anxiety in relation to patient delay were studied in 100 patients admitted for suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). More severe pain was reported by women, by those who had recently consulted a physician, who experienced severe anxiety, who fell ill away from their place of work, or who possessed little medical knowledge. These patients tried to get relief from pain by resting. Patients experiencing more severe anxiety were younger, had not consulted a physician recently, had poor medical knowledge, belonged to lower socio-economic groups or were impatient. These patients also sought relief from pain by resting. Pain, but not anxiety, was related to delay. Long delay was seen more often in patients who did not believe they had suffered an AMI and who were psychologically inactive prior to the onset of pain. Recent physician consultation, failure to call for help and belonging to lower socio-economic groups were also related to long delay. Medical knowledge was unrelated to patient delay. Patients with a low degree of pain rarely reported considerable anxiety, whereas several patients with severe pain had little or no anxiety.", "PMID": 433667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1719", "title": "Rapid thrombolysis and preservation of valvular venous function in high deep vein thrombosis. A comparative study between streptokinase and heparin therapy.", "content": "The results of streptokinase and heparin treatment are compared in a 4-year prospective study with special reference to preservation of high valvular venous function. An objective assessment was based upon phlebographic examinations before, during and 1-2 months after therapy. Complete lysis was demonstrated in 44% of high thromboses treated with streptokinase and in 6% treated with heparin. Retrograde phlebography revealed normal function of the proximal femoral valves in 92% of streptokinase-treated high thromboses, compared with 13% of those treated with heparin. These phlebographic results were considered to be a valid prognostic indicator of the eventual development of the postthrombotic syndrome. Allergic reactions were seen in 39% and minor haemorrhagic complications in 18% of the streptokinase-treated cases. The therapeutic benefit of streptokinase therapy in this study was found to outweigh any disadvantages incurred by observed complications.", "contents": "Rapid thrombolysis and preservation of valvular venous function in high deep vein thrombosis. A comparative study between streptokinase and heparin therapy. The results of streptokinase and heparin treatment are compared in a 4-year prospective study with special reference to preservation of high valvular venous function. An objective assessment was based upon phlebographic examinations before, during and 1-2 months after therapy. Complete lysis was demonstrated in 44% of high thromboses treated with streptokinase and in 6% treated with heparin. Retrograde phlebography revealed normal function of the proximal femoral valves in 92% of streptokinase-treated high thromboses, compared with 13% of those treated with heparin. These phlebographic results were considered to be a valid prognostic indicator of the eventual development of the postthrombotic syndrome. Allergic reactions were seen in 39% and minor haemorrhagic complications in 18% of the streptokinase-treated cases. The therapeutic benefit of streptokinase therapy in this study was found to outweigh any disadvantages incurred by observed complications.", "PMID": 433668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1720", "title": "Influence of high plasma concentrations of free-fatty acids on heart rhythm in healthy fasting men.", "content": "Ten healthy male student in regular sinus rhythm fasted for 66 hours. Their overnight fasting plasma concentration of free fatty acids (FFA) was 455 +/- 104 micro mol/1 (mean +/- S.E.M., n=7), the reference value of our laboratory, measured in another normal population of young men, being 344 +/- 28 micro mol/1 (n=10). After 42 and 66 hours of fasting, the plasma concentration of FFA rose to 1198 +/- 181 (p less than 0.01, n=10) and 1471 +/- 89 micro mol/1 (p less than 0.001, n=10), respectively. During the last 24 hours of fasting, the heart rate rhythm was monitored continuously by means of a Holter recorder and computer. No arrhythmias were observed, indicating that elevated plasma concentrations of FFA, exceeding those reported in patients with acute myocardial infarction, are well tolerated by the healthy human myocardium.", "contents": "Influence of high plasma concentrations of free-fatty acids on heart rhythm in healthy fasting men. Ten healthy male student in regular sinus rhythm fasted for 66 hours. Their overnight fasting plasma concentration of free fatty acids (FFA) was 455 +/- 104 micro mol/1 (mean +/- S.E.M., n=7), the reference value of our laboratory, measured in another normal population of young men, being 344 +/- 28 micro mol/1 (n=10). After 42 and 66 hours of fasting, the plasma concentration of FFA rose to 1198 +/- 181 (p less than 0.01, n=10) and 1471 +/- 89 micro mol/1 (p less than 0.001, n=10), respectively. During the last 24 hours of fasting, the heart rate rhythm was monitored continuously by means of a Holter recorder and computer. No arrhythmias were observed, indicating that elevated plasma concentrations of FFA, exceeding those reported in patients with acute myocardial infarction, are well tolerated by the healthy human myocardium.", "PMID": 433669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1721", "title": "Citrate in plasma and urine during total fasting.", "content": "Plasma citrate was determined in 12 obese subjects who underwent total fasting for 10 days. Mean plasma citrate concentration rose significantly from 128 before to 205 micro mol/1 on the 10th day of fasting. Plasma citrate rose continuously during fasting in seven subjects in whom daily determinations were carried out. The 24-hour urinary citrate excretion was followed in six subjects. A significant decrease was found from 2.91 mmol/24 h in the prefasting state to 0.25 mmol/24 h at the end of the fast. Intravenous glucose tolerance test were performed before and on the 10th day of fasting. Kivgtt decreased significantly and was inversely related to plasma citrate concentration on the 10th day of fasting. The results agree well with the concept that an increased citrate level of tissues is of regulatory importance for the decreased glucose utilization during fasting in man.", "contents": "Citrate in plasma and urine during total fasting. Plasma citrate was determined in 12 obese subjects who underwent total fasting for 10 days. Mean plasma citrate concentration rose significantly from 128 before to 205 micro mol/1 on the 10th day of fasting. Plasma citrate rose continuously during fasting in seven subjects in whom daily determinations were carried out. The 24-hour urinary citrate excretion was followed in six subjects. A significant decrease was found from 2.91 mmol/24 h in the prefasting state to 0.25 mmol/24 h at the end of the fast. Intravenous glucose tolerance test were performed before and on the 10th day of fasting. Kivgtt decreased significantly and was inversely related to plasma citrate concentration on the 10th day of fasting. The results agree well with the concept that an increased citrate level of tissues is of regulatory importance for the decreased glucose utilization during fasting in man.", "PMID": 433670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1722", "title": "The removal of exogenous triglycerides in haemorrhagic hyperlipidaemia in rabbits.", "content": "Bleedings (15 ml/day/kg b.wt.) on two consecutive days caused a threefold increase in plasma triglycerides (TG) in rabbits. Both in normal and in haemorrhagic rabbits the elimination of injected TGs (fat emulsion) was exponential, the fractional removal rate in the haemorrhagic group being slower than normal. In order to rule out the possible effect of the TG pool in haemorrhagic rabbits and the possible changes in endogenous TGs during the test, the TGs were fractionated by the polyvinylpyrolidone density gradient method. Again, both in normal and in haemorrhagic rabbits the elimination of exogenous TGs was exponential, the removal rate of haemorrhagic animals being retarded. Accordingly, the changes in endogenous TGs were negligible. The results are regarded as indicative of an elimination defect as one factor in the pathogenesis of haemorrhagic hyperlipidaemia.", "contents": "The removal of exogenous triglycerides in haemorrhagic hyperlipidaemia in rabbits. Bleedings (15 ml/day/kg b.wt.) on two consecutive days caused a threefold increase in plasma triglycerides (TG) in rabbits. Both in normal and in haemorrhagic rabbits the elimination of injected TGs (fat emulsion) was exponential, the fractional removal rate in the haemorrhagic group being slower than normal. In order to rule out the possible effect of the TG pool in haemorrhagic rabbits and the possible changes in endogenous TGs during the test, the TGs were fractionated by the polyvinylpyrolidone density gradient method. Again, both in normal and in haemorrhagic rabbits the elimination of exogenous TGs was exponential, the removal rate of haemorrhagic animals being retarded. Accordingly, the changes in endogenous TGs were negligible. The results are regarded as indicative of an elimination defect as one factor in the pathogenesis of haemorrhagic hyperlipidaemia.", "PMID": 433671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1723", "title": "Changes in amylase, hepatic enzymes and bilirubin in serum upon initiation of alcohol abstinence.", "content": "The serum levels of bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GT), and pancreatic isoamylase were determined in 156 alcohol addicts during the first 9 days upon initiation of alcohol abstinence. During this period decreasing activities were recorded for S-bilirubin and S-ASAT but patients possessing moderatly increased serum activity of GT showed no decrease. Increased activities of S-ASAT and S-GT were still frequently seen at the end of the observation period. For S-pancreatic isoamylase, both decreases and increases from initial activities were frequently found. In patients with low activities initially, the S-pancreatic isoamylase activity increased during the observation period and thus, pathologically increased activities were recorded more often 9 days after alcohol withdrawal than on arrival at the hospital.", "contents": "Changes in amylase, hepatic enzymes and bilirubin in serum upon initiation of alcohol abstinence. The serum levels of bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GT), and pancreatic isoamylase were determined in 156 alcohol addicts during the first 9 days upon initiation of alcohol abstinence. During this period decreasing activities were recorded for S-bilirubin and S-ASAT but patients possessing moderatly increased serum activity of GT showed no decrease. Increased activities of S-ASAT and S-GT were still frequently seen at the end of the observation period. For S-pancreatic isoamylase, both decreases and increases from initial activities were frequently found. In patients with low activities initially, the S-pancreatic isoamylase activity increased during the observation period and thus, pathologically increased activities were recorded more often 9 days after alcohol withdrawal than on arrival at the hospital.", "PMID": 433672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1724", "title": "Serum ethanol, hepatic enzymes and length of debauch in chronic alcoholics.", "content": "The serum concentration of ethanol and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GT) in 40 male chronic alcoholics were determined on admission to hospital. The serum activities of the enzymes were highest in patients with established alcoholism for less than 5 years. The serum concentration of ethanol, however, was lowest among these patients and gradually increased with the duration of alcoholism. No correlation was found between the serum ethanol level and the activity of any of the enzymes. The duration of the current debauch, which was shortest in cases of long-standing alcoholism, showed a positive correlation with the S-GT activity.", "contents": "Serum ethanol, hepatic enzymes and length of debauch in chronic alcoholics. The serum concentration of ethanol and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GT) in 40 male chronic alcoholics were determined on admission to hospital. The serum activities of the enzymes were highest in patients with established alcoholism for less than 5 years. The serum concentration of ethanol, however, was lowest among these patients and gradually increased with the duration of alcoholism. No correlation was found between the serum ethanol level and the activity of any of the enzymes. The duration of the current debauch, which was shortest in cases of long-standing alcoholism, showed a positive correlation with the S-GT activity.", "PMID": 433673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1725", "title": "Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection associated with affection of the central nervous system.", "content": "A total of 371 patients with acute, febrile, non-bacterial affection of the CNS hospitalized between Nov. 1, 1971, and June 1, 1976, were examined for Mycoplasma (M.) pneumoniae infection. Nineteen of the patients showed evidence of a current M. pneumoniae infection, 32 of a previous infection, and 320 no evidence. In patients with a current infection due to M. pneumoniae, suggestive evidence is presented that this agent might be involved in the pathogenesis of the neurological syndromes. Compared to cases without the infection, these cases and, to a lesser degree, those with a previous M. pneumoniae infection showed an increased frequency of pathological values, found by various laboratory and instrumental parameters, and a slightly higher frequency of neurological sequelae. Respiratory illness was present in only 11 of the 19 patients infected with M. pneumoniae, a classical respiratory tract pathogen. The overall incidence of current M. pneumoniae infections among patients with neurological syndromes was 5%, with a maximum of 10% during the 1972 epidemic. This is a much higher figure than expected from a mere coincidence of the two conditions.", "contents": "Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection associated with affection of the central nervous system. A total of 371 patients with acute, febrile, non-bacterial affection of the CNS hospitalized between Nov. 1, 1971, and June 1, 1976, were examined for Mycoplasma (M.) pneumoniae infection. Nineteen of the patients showed evidence of a current M. pneumoniae infection, 32 of a previous infection, and 320 no evidence. In patients with a current infection due to M. pneumoniae, suggestive evidence is presented that this agent might be involved in the pathogenesis of the neurological syndromes. Compared to cases without the infection, these cases and, to a lesser degree, those with a previous M. pneumoniae infection showed an increased frequency of pathological values, found by various laboratory and instrumental parameters, and a slightly higher frequency of neurological sequelae. Respiratory illness was present in only 11 of the 19 patients infected with M. pneumoniae, a classical respiratory tract pathogen. The overall incidence of current M. pneumoniae infections among patients with neurological syndromes was 5%, with a maximum of 10% during the 1972 epidemic. This is a much higher figure than expected from a mere coincidence of the two conditions.", "PMID": 433674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1726", "title": "A patient with Cronkhite-Canada syndrome, myxedema and muscle atrophy.", "content": "A case of Cronkhite-Canada syndrome is presented. The patient had alopecia, onychodystrophy and gastrointestinal polyposis, mainly in the stomach and duodenum, with transient diarrhea and hypoproteinemia. Marked atrophy and weakness of the shoulder girdle muscles due to myopathy were also present. In addition she had primary hypothyroidism. The outcome of the disease is usually fatal within months, but so far our patient is alive four years after the onset of symptoms. The pathological changes, pathophysiology, symptoms, course and treatment of this rare disorder of unknown etiology are discussed.", "contents": "A patient with Cronkhite-Canada syndrome, myxedema and muscle atrophy. A case of Cronkhite-Canada syndrome is presented. The patient had alopecia, onychodystrophy and gastrointestinal polyposis, mainly in the stomach and duodenum, with transient diarrhea and hypoproteinemia. Marked atrophy and weakness of the shoulder girdle muscles due to myopathy were also present. In addition she had primary hypothyroidism. The outcome of the disease is usually fatal within months, but so far our patient is alive four years after the onset of symptoms. The pathological changes, pathophysiology, symptoms, course and treatment of this rare disorder of unknown etiology are discussed.", "PMID": 433675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1727", "title": "Trauma and Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "In two patients, Hodgkin's disease developed apparently after a trauma. The relationship between trauma and Hodgkin's disease is discussed. The trauma may be the initiating factor in the development of the pathological process, or it may be a localizing factor in a patient already suffering from Hodgkin's disease. As long as these questions remain unanswered and a causal relationship cannot be excluded, it will be reasonable, if accident insurance problems are involved, to give the patient the benefit of the doubt.", "contents": "Trauma and Hodgkin's disease. In two patients, Hodgkin's disease developed apparently after a trauma. The relationship between trauma and Hodgkin's disease is discussed. The trauma may be the initiating factor in the development of the pathological process, or it may be a localizing factor in a patient already suffering from Hodgkin's disease. As long as these questions remain unanswered and a causal relationship cannot be excluded, it will be reasonable, if accident insurance problems are involved, to give the patient the benefit of the doubt.", "PMID": 433676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1728", "title": "The transparent face mask.", "content": "Fabrication of an accurate transparent mask for total contact pressure to the healed burned face proved helpful in controlling scarring. Wearing the mask for 20 hours daily, secured by elastic straps giving 35-mmHG pressure to the scar, can prevent the original facial contours from being distorted by contracting scar tissue.", "contents": "The transparent face mask. Fabrication of an accurate transparent mask for total contact pressure to the healed burned face proved helpful in controlling scarring. Wearing the mask for 20 hours daily, secured by elastic straps giving 35-mmHG pressure to the scar, can prevent the original facial contours from being distorted by contracting scar tissue.", "PMID": 433702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1729", "title": "Verbal and nonverbal memory abilities of adult brain-damaged patients.", "content": "Retention abilities of three groups of patients were investigated in this study; ten left hemisphere brain-damaged patients (aphasics), ten right hemisphere-damaged patients, and ten patients with no known neurological deficits who served as controls. The patients were asked to detect repetitions of a word within a list of words presented either auditorily or visually. They were also tested for their ability to detect repeated pictures and repeated shapes. It was discovered that the aphasics had greater difficulty than the other two groups in retaining stimuli on the verbal subtests presented auditorily or visually. On the other hand, the right-hemisphere-damaged patients performed poorly on the visual subtests (verbal and nonverbal), but performed well on the auditorily presented verbal test. Application of these findings is offered for the clinical treatment of both right and left brain-injured patients.", "contents": "Verbal and nonverbal memory abilities of adult brain-damaged patients. Retention abilities of three groups of patients were investigated in this study; ten left hemisphere brain-damaged patients (aphasics), ten right hemisphere-damaged patients, and ten patients with no known neurological deficits who served as controls. The patients were asked to detect repetitions of a word within a list of words presented either auditorily or visually. They were also tested for their ability to detect repeated pictures and repeated shapes. It was discovered that the aphasics had greater difficulty than the other two groups in retaining stimuli on the verbal subtests presented auditorily or visually. On the other hand, the right-hemisphere-damaged patients performed poorly on the visual subtests (verbal and nonverbal), but performed well on the auditorily presented verbal test. Application of these findings is offered for the clinical treatment of both right and left brain-injured patients.", "PMID": 433708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1730", "title": "Volunteer program to assist the elderly to remain in home settings.", "content": "A community-based volunteer program was organized to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals in the community. Each elderly client referred for the program from welfare and home health agencies, or from family and friends, was matched with a volunteer who visited regularly. The volunteers also assisted with transportation, sitting, home maintenance, and meal preparation when these services were not available. The goals of the program were to improve the quality of life of elderly in the community, to assist the clients to remain in their home setting despite physical limitations, to encourage positive attitudes toward the elderly by the volunteers, and to increase the community's awareness of the older person's needs. The program also included educational seminars on gerontology for volunteers and community members.", "contents": "Volunteer program to assist the elderly to remain in home settings. A community-based volunteer program was organized to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals in the community. Each elderly client referred for the program from welfare and home health agencies, or from family and friends, was matched with a volunteer who visited regularly. The volunteers also assisted with transportation, sitting, home maintenance, and meal preparation when these services were not available. The goals of the program were to improve the quality of life of elderly in the community, to assist the clients to remain in their home setting despite physical limitations, to encourage positive attitudes toward the elderly by the volunteers, and to increase the community's awareness of the older person's needs. The program also included educational seminars on gerontology for volunteers and community members.", "PMID": 433709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1731", "title": "Pericardial effusion as an early complication of acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Two days after an acute myocardial infarction, a patient developed pleuropericarditis. A negative lung scan and echocardiographic evidence of pericardial effusion were instrumental in making the diagnosis. Steroid therapy led to a dramatic resolution of the signs and symptoms. Pericardial effusion is usually a late complication of myocardial infarction (Dressler's syndrome), but the increasing use of echocardiography may demonstrate that it occurs early in the course.", "contents": "Pericardial effusion as an early complication of acute myocardial infarction. Two days after an acute myocardial infarction, a patient developed pleuropericarditis. A negative lung scan and echocardiographic evidence of pericardial effusion were instrumental in making the diagnosis. Steroid therapy led to a dramatic resolution of the signs and symptoms. Pericardial effusion is usually a late complication of myocardial infarction (Dressler's syndrome), but the increasing use of echocardiography may demonstrate that it occurs early in the course.", "PMID": 433713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1732", "title": "The 'sprained wrist'.", "content": "\"Sprain of the wrist\" is a precarious diagnosis. Although true ligamentous injuries do occur, it is important for the physician who first sees the patient to make a more specific and accurate diagnosis. In most instances, this can be done by locating the precise area of maximum tenderness and obtaining appropriate radiographs. Understanding the basic anatomy and biomechanics of the carpal bones and knowing the most likely diagnostic possibilities will permit recognition of these frequently overlooked injuries.", "contents": "The 'sprained wrist'. \"Sprain of the wrist\" is a precarious diagnosis. Although true ligamentous injuries do occur, it is important for the physician who first sees the patient to make a more specific and accurate diagnosis. In most instances, this can be done by locating the precise area of maximum tenderness and obtaining appropriate radiographs. Understanding the basic anatomy and biomechanics of the carpal bones and knowing the most likely diagnostic possibilities will permit recognition of these frequently overlooked injuries.", "PMID": 433714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1733", "title": "Counseling after resection of the penis.", "content": "Surgery is the most effective means of controlling or curing cancer of the penis, but management of a patient with penile cancer encompasses more than excising the lesion. Anticipatory guidance and counseling are required components of total patient care. An integral part of counseling is psychotherapy, including marital and sex therapy. This comprehensive management program is best provided by a team of health care professionals including the family physician.", "contents": "Counseling after resection of the penis. Surgery is the most effective means of controlling or curing cancer of the penis, but management of a patient with penile cancer encompasses more than excising the lesion. Anticipatory guidance and counseling are required components of total patient care. An integral part of counseling is psychotherapy, including marital and sex therapy. This comprehensive management program is best provided by a team of health care professionals including the family physician.", "PMID": 433715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1734", "title": "Lithium therapy and toxicity.", "content": "Lithium is a potent agent for the control of psychiatric disease. It is safe and effective when properly administered; however, its use requires a maximally informed physician and careful clinical monitoring of patients. The drug's side effects are usually dose related, and certain patients are at greater risk of experiencing toxicity than others. Management of acute intoxication involves gastric lavage, sodium replacement and the administration of other agents or dialysis to facilitate clearance.", "contents": "Lithium therapy and toxicity. Lithium is a potent agent for the control of psychiatric disease. It is safe and effective when properly administered; however, its use requires a maximally informed physician and careful clinical monitoring of patients. The drug's side effects are usually dose related, and certain patients are at greater risk of experiencing toxicity than others. Management of acute intoxication involves gastric lavage, sodium replacement and the administration of other agents or dialysis to facilitate clearance.", "PMID": 433716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1735", "title": "Sputum cytology.", "content": "The primary purpose of sputum cytology is to detect preinvasive and invasive malignancy. Candidates for the screening procedure include long-time smokers with productive cough, patients chronically exposed to asbestos, patients with hemoptysis, persistent cough and/or weight loss, and asymptomatic patients with x-ray lesions or unexplained pleural effusions. The procedure is inexpensive and highly diagnostic. Five consecutive specimens produced by deep coughing are required for adequate evaluation.", "contents": "Sputum cytology. The primary purpose of sputum cytology is to detect preinvasive and invasive malignancy. Candidates for the screening procedure include long-time smokers with productive cough, patients chronically exposed to asbestos, patients with hemoptysis, persistent cough and/or weight loss, and asymptomatic patients with x-ray lesions or unexplained pleural effusions. The procedure is inexpensive and highly diagnostic. Five consecutive specimens produced by deep coughing are required for adequate evaluation.", "PMID": 433726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1736", "title": "Chronic diarrhea in infants and children.", "content": "A useful clinical classification of chronic diarrhea is based on the character of the stool--watery, fatty or bloody. Pathophysiologic mechanisms include osmotic and secretory diarrheas, bacterial overgrowth leading to excess colonic bile acids and fatty acids, defective anion exchange systems, mucosal damage and abnormal motility and transit. Evaluation may require hospitalization. Antidiarrheal agents are not used. Antibiotics are generally not indicated. Parenteral hydration and feedings of special formulas are carefully monitored.", "contents": "Chronic diarrhea in infants and children. A useful clinical classification of chronic diarrhea is based on the character of the stool--watery, fatty or bloody. Pathophysiologic mechanisms include osmotic and secretory diarrheas, bacterial overgrowth leading to excess colonic bile acids and fatty acids, defective anion exchange systems, mucosal damage and abnormal motility and transit. Evaluation may require hospitalization. Antidiarrheal agents are not used. Antibiotics are generally not indicated. Parenteral hydration and feedings of special formulas are carefully monitored.", "PMID": 433727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1737", "title": "Methotrexate for psoriasis-revisited.", "content": "If maximum medical management-hospitalization, tar and sunlight therapy, topical steroids with plastic-wrap occlusion--is not effective, and PUVA is not available, methotrexate therapy should be considered, especially in a patient with severe psoriatic arthritis. It should be used if systemic steroids are inadvisable and if the patient has a normal liver biopsy and no history of alcohol excess. The least toxic and most effective method of administration is three divided doses every 12 hours, once a week.", "contents": "Methotrexate for psoriasis-revisited. If maximum medical management-hospitalization, tar and sunlight therapy, topical steroids with plastic-wrap occlusion--is not effective, and PUVA is not available, methotrexate therapy should be considered, especially in a patient with severe psoriatic arthritis. It should be used if systemic steroids are inadvisable and if the patient has a normal liver biopsy and no history of alcohol excess. The least toxic and most effective method of administration is three divided doses every 12 hours, once a week.", "PMID": 433728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1738", "title": "The reliability of coronary angiogram interpretation: an angiographic-pathologic correlation with a comparison of radiographic views.", "content": "This prospective study correlates premortem coronary angiographic interpretation with pathologic findings including the use of postmortem coronary angiograms. The reliability of a single radiographic view, left anterior oblique or right anterior oblique, or combined views (left anterior oblique plus right anterior oblique) was examined. The most reliable interpretation, the combined view, has a specificity of 93 per cent, but sensitivity is less at 61 per cent. Using a single view enhances diagnosis (sensitivity), but it leads to overestimation more frequently (decreased specificity). Proximal segments of the coronary arteries are prone to a significant per cent of false positive readings. The most accurate assessment of the anterior descending coronary artery system occurs with the use of the right anterior oblique with multiple views. Less routine use of the left anterior oblique view with increased use of the hemiaxial view is suggested for the angiography of the left coronary artery. Initial cusp injections of the right coronary artery may avoid a high per cent of false positive readings in the proximal segment.", "contents": "The reliability of coronary angiogram interpretation: an angiographic-pathologic correlation with a comparison of radiographic views. This prospective study correlates premortem coronary angiographic interpretation with pathologic findings including the use of postmortem coronary angiograms. The reliability of a single radiographic view, left anterior oblique or right anterior oblique, or combined views (left anterior oblique plus right anterior oblique) was examined. The most reliable interpretation, the combined view, has a specificity of 93 per cent, but sensitivity is less at 61 per cent. Using a single view enhances diagnosis (sensitivity), but it leads to overestimation more frequently (decreased specificity). Proximal segments of the coronary arteries are prone to a significant per cent of false positive readings. The most accurate assessment of the anterior descending coronary artery system occurs with the use of the right anterior oblique with multiple views. Less routine use of the left anterior oblique view with increased use of the hemiaxial view is suggested for the angiography of the left coronary artery. Initial cusp injections of the right coronary artery may avoid a high per cent of false positive readings in the proximal segment.", "PMID": 433732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1739", "title": "Left ventricular performance during and after sickle cell crisis.", "content": "Although microvascular occlusion has been considered a basis for pathophysiology of the myocardium during the crisis of sickle cell anemia, the status of the left ventricle in uncertain. To determine if left ventricular performance is affected by crisis, 11 patients were evaluated noninvasively by the systolic time interval method on the first day of crisis and serially until recovery. There were no significant differences in the time intervals over this period. In addition, since the serum CPK-MB isoenzyme was not elevated during crisis and evidence of acute injury was not present on ECG, myocardial necrosis appeared unlikely. Four patients on subsequent admission exhibited systolic time interval values similar to the earlier crisis. To determine if there were chronic changes in cardiac function, subjects with sickle cell hemoglobin were studied between crises. Those under 23 years of age were not dissimilar from a group of normals and a group of patients with chronic blood loss anemia A significant abnormality of the PEP/LVET ratio was observed in subjects over 23 years of age. Similar observations were made on echocardiography, with subjects over the age of 23 demonstrating an abnormal ejection fraction compared to the younger group, despite enhanced end-diastolic diameter. Thus, it is suggested that the chronic hemolytic process in subjects with sickle cell anemia may effect cumulative myocardial alterations, resulting in chronic cardiac malfunction in the apparent absence of acute ischemia during crises.", "contents": "Left ventricular performance during and after sickle cell crisis. Although microvascular occlusion has been considered a basis for pathophysiology of the myocardium during the crisis of sickle cell anemia, the status of the left ventricle in uncertain. To determine if left ventricular performance is affected by crisis, 11 patients were evaluated noninvasively by the systolic time interval method on the first day of crisis and serially until recovery. There were no significant differences in the time intervals over this period. In addition, since the serum CPK-MB isoenzyme was not elevated during crisis and evidence of acute injury was not present on ECG, myocardial necrosis appeared unlikely. Four patients on subsequent admission exhibited systolic time interval values similar to the earlier crisis. To determine if there were chronic changes in cardiac function, subjects with sickle cell hemoglobin were studied between crises. Those under 23 years of age were not dissimilar from a group of normals and a group of patients with chronic blood loss anemia A significant abnormality of the PEP/LVET ratio was observed in subjects over 23 years of age. Similar observations were made on echocardiography, with subjects over the age of 23 demonstrating an abnormal ejection fraction compared to the younger group, despite enhanced end-diastolic diameter. Thus, it is suggested that the chronic hemolytic process in subjects with sickle cell anemia may effect cumulative myocardial alterations, resulting in chronic cardiac malfunction in the apparent absence of acute ischemia during crises.", "PMID": 433733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1740", "title": "Left ventricular function before and following surgical treatment of mitral valve disease.", "content": "Nineteen patients with mitral valve disease were studied before and a mean 11 months +/- 9 months following valve replacement or reconstruction, which resulted in good postoperative valve function. Biplane left ventricular angiography and pressures were utilized to determine end-diastolic volume/M. (EDV), end-systolic volume/M. (ESV), ejection fraction (EF), left ventricular mass/M. (LVM), and stroke work/M. (SW). There were 19 patients--six with mitral stenosis (MS), six with mitral stenosis and regurgitation (MS + MR), and seven with mitral regurgitation (MR). Those with MS and MS + MR preoperatively had no significant change in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), EDV, ESV, LVM, or EF following surgery. Patients with MR had a significant reduction in LVEDP, EDV, SV, and SW. More importantly, the EF fell in four of these seven patients and LVM did not decrease following surgery. It is concluded that surgical treatment for MS and MS + MR had little effect on left ventricular performance. Following surgical treatment for MR, reduction in EDV is not associated with reduction in LVM, and frequently left ventricular performance deteriorates as judged by the EF.", "contents": "Left ventricular function before and following surgical treatment of mitral valve disease. Nineteen patients with mitral valve disease were studied before and a mean 11 months +/- 9 months following valve replacement or reconstruction, which resulted in good postoperative valve function. Biplane left ventricular angiography and pressures were utilized to determine end-diastolic volume/M. (EDV), end-systolic volume/M. (ESV), ejection fraction (EF), left ventricular mass/M. (LVM), and stroke work/M. (SW). There were 19 patients--six with mitral stenosis (MS), six with mitral stenosis and regurgitation (MS + MR), and seven with mitral regurgitation (MR). Those with MS and MS + MR preoperatively had no significant change in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), EDV, ESV, LVM, or EF following surgery. Patients with MR had a significant reduction in LVEDP, EDV, SV, and SW. More importantly, the EF fell in four of these seven patients and LVM did not decrease following surgery. It is concluded that surgical treatment for MS and MS + MR had little effect on left ventricular performance. Following surgical treatment for MR, reduction in EDV is not associated with reduction in LVM, and frequently left ventricular performance deteriorates as judged by the EF.", "PMID": 433734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1741", "title": "Clinical and hemodynamic results after combined aortic and mitral valve replacement with the Lillehei-Kaster pivoting disc valve.", "content": "Combined mitral and aortic valve replacement with the Lillehei-Kaster pivoting disc valve prosthesis was performed in 23 patients. Hospital mortality rate was 8.3 per cent. Detailed postoperative clinical and hemodynamic studies were performed after a mean follow-up period of 24.4 months. Replacement of both valves had resulted in a marked symptomatic and hemodynamic improvement with a normal or nearly normal resting value of cardiac output, pulmonary arterial pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance while left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) had increased significantly. The rise in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure most probably might be related to the simultaneous rise in cardiac output (Starling mechanism), reflecting the severity and irreversibility of the underlying myocardial disease. Most patients also had systolic gradient across the aortic prosthesis, as well as diastolic gradient across the mitral prosthesis. The gradients across the mitral prosthesis were approximately the same as seen after single valve replacement, while the pressure gradients across the aortic prosthesis were somewhat smaller than previously reported. Angiographic studies of the aortic valve movement indicated that the opening angle of the disc was approximately 60 degrees, and thus less than according to the valve specifications.", "contents": "Clinical and hemodynamic results after combined aortic and mitral valve replacement with the Lillehei-Kaster pivoting disc valve. Combined mitral and aortic valve replacement with the Lillehei-Kaster pivoting disc valve prosthesis was performed in 23 patients. Hospital mortality rate was 8.3 per cent. Detailed postoperative clinical and hemodynamic studies were performed after a mean follow-up period of 24.4 months. Replacement of both valves had resulted in a marked symptomatic and hemodynamic improvement with a normal or nearly normal resting value of cardiac output, pulmonary arterial pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance while left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) had increased significantly. The rise in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure most probably might be related to the simultaneous rise in cardiac output (Starling mechanism), reflecting the severity and irreversibility of the underlying myocardial disease. Most patients also had systolic gradient across the aortic prosthesis, as well as diastolic gradient across the mitral prosthesis. The gradients across the mitral prosthesis were approximately the same as seen after single valve replacement, while the pressure gradients across the aortic prosthesis were somewhat smaller than previously reported. Angiographic studies of the aortic valve movement indicated that the opening angle of the disc was approximately 60 degrees, and thus less than according to the valve specifications.", "PMID": 433735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1742", "title": "Unidirectional complete heart block.", "content": "Forty-two patients with complete heart block were subjected to electrophysiological studies wherein apart from localization of the site of the conduction defect, ventricular pacing was done to assess ventriculo-atrial (VA) conduction and concealed ventriculo-nodal (VN) conduction. There was evidence of retrograde conduction in the presence of orthograde CHB in 22 patients (52.4 per cent). Fifteen patients (35.7 per cent) had VA conduction and seven (16.6 per cent) had concealed VN conduction. In patients with supra-Hisian CHB, three of the nine patients had VA conduction while of the 11 patients with intra-Hisian CHB, six had retrograde conduction (four with VA and two with concealed VN conduction). In the infra-Hisian CHB group, of the 22 patients, eight had VA conduction and five had concealed conduction. Incremental ventricular pacing induced VA Wenckebach periods at VPR from 110 to 133/minute with a VA interval of 110 to 130 msec. In view of the induction of Wenckebach VA periods, the recording of retrograde H potentials in some cases, and relatively long VA conduction time, it is surmised that retrograde conduction in the presence of orthograde CHB takes place through the AV conduction system.", "contents": "Unidirectional complete heart block. Forty-two patients with complete heart block were subjected to electrophysiological studies wherein apart from localization of the site of the conduction defect, ventricular pacing was done to assess ventriculo-atrial (VA) conduction and concealed ventriculo-nodal (VN) conduction. There was evidence of retrograde conduction in the presence of orthograde CHB in 22 patients (52.4 per cent). Fifteen patients (35.7 per cent) had VA conduction and seven (16.6 per cent) had concealed VN conduction. In patients with supra-Hisian CHB, three of the nine patients had VA conduction while of the 11 patients with intra-Hisian CHB, six had retrograde conduction (four with VA and two with concealed VN conduction). In the infra-Hisian CHB group, of the 22 patients, eight had VA conduction and five had concealed conduction. Incremental ventricular pacing induced VA Wenckebach periods at VPR from 110 to 133/minute with a VA interval of 110 to 130 msec. In view of the induction of Wenckebach VA periods, the recording of retrograde H potentials in some cases, and relatively long VA conduction time, it is surmised that retrograde conduction in the presence of orthograde CHB takes place through the AV conduction system.", "PMID": 433736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1743", "title": "Postpartum cardiac failure--heart failure due to volume overload?", "content": "Ventricular function has been studied in 43 patients with the peripartum cardiac failure (PPCF) syndrome which occurs around Zaria. All patients had an echocardiogram on admission and 10 patients had right heart catheterization. Despite the gross edema, left ventricular function assessed by echocardiography and systolic time intervals was relatively good and the estimated cardiac output were high. At catheterization, although the pressures were high, the cardiac outputs were greater than normal in four out of six patients. No patient had a low cardiac output. These findings are not compatible with a severe heart muscle disorder, or cardiomyopathy. We suggest that the primary event in PPCF of Zaria is fluid retention which leads to a form of high output cardiac failure. The postpartum practices in this area (taking high sodium diets and lying on heated beds) almost certainly cause the fluid to accumulate initially, but the heart may be unable to meet the demands either because of preexisting heart muscle disease or, more likely, because of a rise of the peripheral resistance due to the volume expansion, overburdens such dilated hearts and leads to myocardial damage. Since there are similarities between this condition and PPCF in temperate climates, it is possible that there is a common mechanism which the traditional practices of this area have unveiled.", "contents": "Postpartum cardiac failure--heart failure due to volume overload? Ventricular function has been studied in 43 patients with the peripartum cardiac failure (PPCF) syndrome which occurs around Zaria. All patients had an echocardiogram on admission and 10 patients had right heart catheterization. Despite the gross edema, left ventricular function assessed by echocardiography and systolic time intervals was relatively good and the estimated cardiac output were high. At catheterization, although the pressures were high, the cardiac outputs were greater than normal in four out of six patients. No patient had a low cardiac output. These findings are not compatible with a severe heart muscle disorder, or cardiomyopathy. We suggest that the primary event in PPCF of Zaria is fluid retention which leads to a form of high output cardiac failure. The postpartum practices in this area (taking high sodium diets and lying on heated beds) almost certainly cause the fluid to accumulate initially, but the heart may be unable to meet the demands either because of preexisting heart muscle disease or, more likely, because of a rise of the peripheral resistance due to the volume expansion, overburdens such dilated hearts and leads to myocardial damage. Since there are similarities between this condition and PPCF in temperate climates, it is possible that there is a common mechanism which the traditional practices of this area have unveiled.", "PMID": 433737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1744", "title": "Thrombosis of epicardial coronary veins in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Thrombosis of epicardial coronary veins was demonstrated in 16 of 50 cases of left ventricular acute myocardial infarction and/or recent coronary arterial thrombosis. All patients with valvular heart disease had venous thrombosis. In cases without valvular heart disease, venous thrombosis was seen in infarctions involving more than 30% of the left ventricular myocardial mass with a post-attack survival time of at least 24 hours. The veins thrombosed were in all cases those draining the infarcted myocardium. Coronary vein thrombosis seems not to be prevented by anticoagulant medication.", "contents": "Thrombosis of epicardial coronary veins in acute myocardial infarction. Thrombosis of epicardial coronary veins was demonstrated in 16 of 50 cases of left ventricular acute myocardial infarction and/or recent coronary arterial thrombosis. All patients with valvular heart disease had venous thrombosis. In cases without valvular heart disease, venous thrombosis was seen in infarctions involving more than 30% of the left ventricular myocardial mass with a post-attack survival time of at least 24 hours. The veins thrombosed were in all cases those draining the infarcted myocardium. Coronary vein thrombosis seems not to be prevented by anticoagulant medication.", "PMID": 433746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1745", "title": "Sarcoidosis of the cardiac conducting system.", "content": "In a consecutive series of 2.950 routine autopsies two of 13 cases with sarcoidosis had cardiac involvement, one of which showed extensive granulomatous lesions in the sinus node. It is suggested that sudden death in this 52-year-old woman was caused by cardiac sarcoid involvement, possibly by leading to sinus arrest with cardiac standstill. However, because of the lack of electrocardiographic evidence, sudden death from ventricular fibrillation can not be excluded. As sudden death is a well-known complication in sarcoidosis, all such patients should be regularly screened for cardiac involvement in order to prevent fatal arrhythmias.", "contents": "Sarcoidosis of the cardiac conducting system. In a consecutive series of 2.950 routine autopsies two of 13 cases with sarcoidosis had cardiac involvement, one of which showed extensive granulomatous lesions in the sinus node. It is suggested that sudden death in this 52-year-old woman was caused by cardiac sarcoid involvement, possibly by leading to sinus arrest with cardiac standstill. However, because of the lack of electrocardiographic evidence, sudden death from ventricular fibrillation can not be excluded. As sudden death is a well-known complication in sarcoidosis, all such patients should be regularly screened for cardiac involvement in order to prevent fatal arrhythmias.", "PMID": 433747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1746", "title": "Hereditary bundle branch system defect. A new genetic entity?", "content": "A familial survey demonstrated mendelian inheritance in three large kindreds with conduction abnormalities and heart block. The trait was autosomal dominant, with varying expressivity and penetrance, apparent male preponderance, and congenital onset. Manifestations included right bundle branch block, left axis deviation, and right bundle branch block associated with left axis deviation. Complete heart block proved almost always to be a late event, and developed in all documented cases from bilateral bundle branch block. An r' pattern, most likely representing a right ventricular conduction delay, is discussed.", "contents": "Hereditary bundle branch system defect. A new genetic entity? A familial survey demonstrated mendelian inheritance in three large kindreds with conduction abnormalities and heart block. The trait was autosomal dominant, with varying expressivity and penetrance, apparent male preponderance, and congenital onset. Manifestations included right bundle branch block, left axis deviation, and right bundle branch block associated with left axis deviation. Complete heart block proved almost always to be a late event, and developed in all documented cases from bilateral bundle branch block. An r' pattern, most likely representing a right ventricular conduction delay, is discussed.", "PMID": 433748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1747", "title": "Limitations of the cardiokymograph for assessing left ventricular wall motion.", "content": "In order to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of the CKG we studied four groups of patients. In 27 patients with a prior myocardial infarction the CKG recordings were compared to simultaneous wall motion videotracking. Identical wall motion was recorded in 75% of left ventricular sites and most of the discordant sites were false abnormal posterior wall motion recorded by the CKG. The second group consisted of 21 normal subjects studied by CKG only and 35% displayed anterior dyskinesis during expiration. The third group consisted of nine stable patients who were studied on two separate days by CKG and identical wall motion was recorded in only 55% of the sites on the two recordings. The final group consisted of seven patients with mitral regurgitation and all had late systolic outward movement posteriorly. Systolic wall motion was normal postoperatively in the three patients who underwent valve replacement. We conclude that: (1) the usefulness of the CKG is limited by the frequent recording of false wall motion abnormalities in normal subjects, (2) false anterior wall motion abnormalities can be reduced by recording during inspiration, (3) false posterior wall motion abnormalities may be due to systolic left atrial expansion, and (4) cardioxymography recordings are often not reproducible.", "contents": "Limitations of the cardiokymograph for assessing left ventricular wall motion. In order to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of the CKG we studied four groups of patients. In 27 patients with a prior myocardial infarction the CKG recordings were compared to simultaneous wall motion videotracking. Identical wall motion was recorded in 75% of left ventricular sites and most of the discordant sites were false abnormal posterior wall motion recorded by the CKG. The second group consisted of 21 normal subjects studied by CKG only and 35% displayed anterior dyskinesis during expiration. The third group consisted of nine stable patients who were studied on two separate days by CKG and identical wall motion was recorded in only 55% of the sites on the two recordings. The final group consisted of seven patients with mitral regurgitation and all had late systolic outward movement posteriorly. Systolic wall motion was normal postoperatively in the three patients who underwent valve replacement. We conclude that: (1) the usefulness of the CKG is limited by the frequent recording of false wall motion abnormalities in normal subjects, (2) false anterior wall motion abnormalities can be reduced by recording during inspiration, (3) false posterior wall motion abnormalities may be due to systolic left atrial expansion, and (4) cardioxymography recordings are often not reproducible.", "PMID": 433749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1748", "title": "Prognostic value of echocardiographic evaluation of septal function in acute anteroseptal myocardial infarction.", "content": "To determine the clinical usefulness of echocardiography in patients with anteroseptal myocardial infarction, echocardiograms were performed within 24 hours of admission on 40 patients with acute transmural anteroseptal myocardial infarction. Twenty-one patients had normal septal motion and septal systolic thickening, and 19 patients had abnormalities of one or both of these measurements. Of the 21 patients who had normal septal motion and thickening, only five developed congestive heart failure, none developed bundle branch block, and none died. Of the 19 patients with abnormal septal motion and/or thickening, 17 developed congestive heart failure (p less than .001), seven developed bundle branch block (p less than .001), and six died (p less than .001). Therefore, (1) electrocardiographic evidence of septal infarction does not correlate with abnormalities of the portion of septum seen on echocardiogram, and (2) patients with anteroseptal myocardial infarction and abnormalities of the septum on echocardiogram have more complications and a higher in-hospital mortality rate. These patients may have more extensive myocardial infarction predisposing to pump failure and possibly involving the conduction system.", "contents": "Prognostic value of echocardiographic evaluation of septal function in acute anteroseptal myocardial infarction. To determine the clinical usefulness of echocardiography in patients with anteroseptal myocardial infarction, echocardiograms were performed within 24 hours of admission on 40 patients with acute transmural anteroseptal myocardial infarction. Twenty-one patients had normal septal motion and septal systolic thickening, and 19 patients had abnormalities of one or both of these measurements. Of the 21 patients who had normal septal motion and thickening, only five developed congestive heart failure, none developed bundle branch block, and none died. Of the 19 patients with abnormal septal motion and/or thickening, 17 developed congestive heart failure (p less than .001), seven developed bundle branch block (p less than .001), and six died (p less than .001). Therefore, (1) electrocardiographic evidence of septal infarction does not correlate with abnormalities of the portion of septum seen on echocardiogram, and (2) patients with anteroseptal myocardial infarction and abnormalities of the septum on echocardiogram have more complications and a higher in-hospital mortality rate. These patients may have more extensive myocardial infarction predisposing to pump failure and possibly involving the conduction system.", "PMID": 433750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1749", "title": "The single precordial lead for ST segment monitoring: comparison with the multiple lead map.", "content": "ST segment elevation, used as an index of the relative extent of myocardial ischemic injury, was measured using a single precordial lead located at the point of maximum ST elevation. ST changes were followed for two hours after acute coronary occlusion in pigs, and were compared to the sum of ST elevation recorded with an 18 lead precordial map. Some animals were subjected to Reperfusion (n = 12), others to infarct extension (n = 10), while a control group (n = 9) was followed without an ST-modifying intervention. Correlation between sigmaST and ST in the single lead was good, with a correlation coefficient of 0.844 at 360 points of comparison. Time to peak ST elevation using the single lead technique was comparable to that using the 18 lead map. Changes in the ST elevation using both techniques were similarly reduced following reperfusion, increased following extension, and followed a similar downslope pattern in the unmodified infarct group. This single lead technique offers the advantage of simplicity of use without sacrifice of accuracy. Its use can facilitate clinical studies of myocardial ischemic injury and its modification.", "contents": "The single precordial lead for ST segment monitoring: comparison with the multiple lead map. ST segment elevation, used as an index of the relative extent of myocardial ischemic injury, was measured using a single precordial lead located at the point of maximum ST elevation. ST changes were followed for two hours after acute coronary occlusion in pigs, and were compared to the sum of ST elevation recorded with an 18 lead precordial map. Some animals were subjected to Reperfusion (n = 12), others to infarct extension (n = 10), while a control group (n = 9) was followed without an ST-modifying intervention. Correlation between sigmaST and ST in the single lead was good, with a correlation coefficient of 0.844 at 360 points of comparison. Time to peak ST elevation using the single lead technique was comparable to that using the 18 lead map. Changes in the ST elevation using both techniques were similarly reduced following reperfusion, increased following extension, and followed a similar downslope pattern in the unmodified infarct group. This single lead technique offers the advantage of simplicity of use without sacrifice of accuracy. Its use can facilitate clinical studies of myocardial ischemic injury and its modification.", "PMID": 433752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1750", "title": "Pathophysiologic observations on premature opening of the aortic valve utilizing a technique for multiplane echocardiographic analysis.", "content": "The use of a simple technique for multiplane echocardiographic analysis and study of the effect of arrhythmia enabled us to investigate the mechanism of premature opening of the aortic valve in two patients with subacute aortic insufficiency. In one patient, premature opening evolved with the development of left ventricular dilatation and failure. In this case the prematurity of opening in each beat was related to diastolic filling time and was accompanied by septal recoil and by premature closure of the mitral valve. We classified this as the diastolic duration-dependent subgroup. In the second patient, who had a hypertrophied, non-dilated left ventricle, premature opening depended on atrial contraction and was independent of diastolic filling time. This case defined an atrial contraction-dependent subgroup. In the light of these findings we analyzed previously reported cases in patients with acute severe aortic insufficiency. These patients appear to fall into the diastolic duration-dependent subgroup.", "contents": "Pathophysiologic observations on premature opening of the aortic valve utilizing a technique for multiplane echocardiographic analysis. The use of a simple technique for multiplane echocardiographic analysis and study of the effect of arrhythmia enabled us to investigate the mechanism of premature opening of the aortic valve in two patients with subacute aortic insufficiency. In one patient, premature opening evolved with the development of left ventricular dilatation and failure. In this case the prematurity of opening in each beat was related to diastolic filling time and was accompanied by septal recoil and by premature closure of the mitral valve. We classified this as the diastolic duration-dependent subgroup. In the second patient, who had a hypertrophied, non-dilated left ventricle, premature opening depended on atrial contraction and was independent of diastolic filling time. This case defined an atrial contraction-dependent subgroup. In the light of these findings we analyzed previously reported cases in patients with acute severe aortic insufficiency. These patients appear to fall into the diastolic duration-dependent subgroup.", "PMID": 433754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1751", "title": "Effects of digitalis on normal and abnormal left ventricular segmental dynamics.", "content": "To study the effects of digoxin on regional left ventricular performance, continuous ventricular dynamics were assessed in nine patients with stable coronary disease. Computer-assisted analysis of the fluoroscopic motion of surgically implanted mid wall myocardial markers was used. The markers define six minor ventricular radii and outline the left ventricle. One and one-half hours after administration of 1 mg of intravenous digoxin, mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening for all segments increased 19 percent, from 0.67 +/- 0.06 to 0.78 +/- 0.06 circumference/sec (P less than 0.01) and ejection fraction increased 4.5 percent, from 0.50 +/- 0.03 to 0.53 +/- 0.03 (P less than 0.05). Segmental velocity of circumferential fiber shortening, total segmental shortening and early segmental systolic shrtening increased in 83 percent to 91 percent of normal segments, depending on which index was used. Only 45 to 55 percent of initially abnormal segments benefited from digoxin. In general, segmental dyssynergy increased even when net ventricular function was enhanced. These results suggest that in pateints with chronic left ventricular contraction abnormalities due to coronary disease, deterioration of performance in abnormal regions after administration of digoxin may result from increased stress imposed by increased afterload and by improved segmental dynamics in more normal areas.", "contents": "Effects of digitalis on normal and abnormal left ventricular segmental dynamics. To study the effects of digoxin on regional left ventricular performance, continuous ventricular dynamics were assessed in nine patients with stable coronary disease. Computer-assisted analysis of the fluoroscopic motion of surgically implanted mid wall myocardial markers was used. The markers define six minor ventricular radii and outline the left ventricle. One and one-half hours after administration of 1 mg of intravenous digoxin, mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening for all segments increased 19 percent, from 0.67 +/- 0.06 to 0.78 +/- 0.06 circumference/sec (P less than 0.01) and ejection fraction increased 4.5 percent, from 0.50 +/- 0.03 to 0.53 +/- 0.03 (P less than 0.05). Segmental velocity of circumferential fiber shortening, total segmental shortening and early segmental systolic shrtening increased in 83 percent to 91 percent of normal segments, depending on which index was used. Only 45 to 55 percent of initially abnormal segments benefited from digoxin. In general, segmental dyssynergy increased even when net ventricular function was enhanced. These results suggest that in pateints with chronic left ventricular contraction abnormalities due to coronary disease, deterioration of performance in abnormal regions after administration of digoxin may result from increased stress imposed by increased afterload and by improved segmental dynamics in more normal areas.", "PMID": 433761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1752", "title": "Effect of isosorbide dinitrate on response to submaximal and maximal exercise in patients with congestive heart failure.", "content": "Isosorbide dinitrate is an effective vasodilator that improves resting left ventricular performance in patients with congestive heart failure, but little is known of the effect of the drug on the response to exercise. Bicycle exercise to symptomatic maximum was performed by 18 patients with class II to IV congestive heart failure before and 90 minutes after administration of isosorbide dinitrate, 40 mg orally. Although resting pulmonary wedge pressure and systemic vascular resistance were significantly reduced after isosorbide dinitrate, exercise duration was not altered and maximal oxygen consumption was not significantly changed (13.6 +/- 1.3 [SEM] standard error of the mean versus 13.8 +/- 1.2 ml/kg per min). At peak exercise pulmonary wedge pressure of 37.1 +/- 1.7 mm Hg, cardiac index of 4.19 +/- 0.35 liters/min per m2, and systemic vascular resistance of 14.7 +/- 1.3 units were not significantly different after nitrate administration. However, at submaximal loads, pulmonary wedge pressure was reduced from 33.6 +/- 1.7 to 27.9 +/- 1.8 mm Hg (P less than 0.01), and systemic resistance from 16.5 +/- 1.5 to 13.7 +/- 1.0 units (P less than 0.01) after administration of isosorbide dinitrate. Thus, short-term administration of nitrates does not improve maximal exercise capacity or left ventricular performance at maximal exercise in patients with congestive heart failure, but it does appear to improve pump function at submaximal work loads and may therefore enable patients to perform limited exercise more comfortably.", "contents": "Effect of isosorbide dinitrate on response to submaximal and maximal exercise in patients with congestive heart failure. Isosorbide dinitrate is an effective vasodilator that improves resting left ventricular performance in patients with congestive heart failure, but little is known of the effect of the drug on the response to exercise. Bicycle exercise to symptomatic maximum was performed by 18 patients with class II to IV congestive heart failure before and 90 minutes after administration of isosorbide dinitrate, 40 mg orally. Although resting pulmonary wedge pressure and systemic vascular resistance were significantly reduced after isosorbide dinitrate, exercise duration was not altered and maximal oxygen consumption was not significantly changed (13.6 +/- 1.3 [SEM] standard error of the mean versus 13.8 +/- 1.2 ml/kg per min). At peak exercise pulmonary wedge pressure of 37.1 +/- 1.7 mm Hg, cardiac index of 4.19 +/- 0.35 liters/min per m2, and systemic vascular resistance of 14.7 +/- 1.3 units were not significantly different after nitrate administration. However, at submaximal loads, pulmonary wedge pressure was reduced from 33.6 +/- 1.7 to 27.9 +/- 1.8 mm Hg (P less than 0.01), and systemic resistance from 16.5 +/- 1.5 to 13.7 +/- 1.0 units (P less than 0.01) after administration of isosorbide dinitrate. Thus, short-term administration of nitrates does not improve maximal exercise capacity or left ventricular performance at maximal exercise in patients with congestive heart failure, but it does appear to improve pump function at submaximal work loads and may therefore enable patients to perform limited exercise more comfortably.", "PMID": 433762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1753", "title": "Paroxysmal nonreentrant tachycardias due to simultaneous conduction in dual atrioventricular nodal pathways.", "content": "Electrophysiologic studies were performed in a 41 year old man for analysis of paroxysmal tachycardias appearing in various electrocardiographic patterns of supraventricular and ventricular bigeminy, junctional and ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, among others. All these arrhythmias were due to dual atrioventricular (A-V) nodal pathways with simultaneous dual fast and slow conduction of single atrial beats at a normal basic sinus rate. Moderate changes in sinus rate and in fast or slow pathway conduction times, or both, changed the position of the slowly conducted beats between the neighboring two fast conducted beats and resulted in various electrocardiographic manifestations of the conduction disturbance. Different blocks, such as second degree type 1, 2:1, 3:1 and possibly also type II, in one of the two pathways and occasionally aberrant conduction induced even more unusual tracings. After intravenous injection of 25 mg of ajmaline, unexpected lengthening and shortening of the A-H interval occurred, suggesting variable shifts between fast and slow pathway conduction. The incidence of dual A-V nodal pathways is discussed; it was documented in 17 (4.2 percent) of 405 patients studied. A theoretical model of A-V nodal conduction is proposed to explain its normal properties and abnormal patterns.", "contents": "Paroxysmal nonreentrant tachycardias due to simultaneous conduction in dual atrioventricular nodal pathways. Electrophysiologic studies were performed in a 41 year old man for analysis of paroxysmal tachycardias appearing in various electrocardiographic patterns of supraventricular and ventricular bigeminy, junctional and ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, among others. All these arrhythmias were due to dual atrioventricular (A-V) nodal pathways with simultaneous dual fast and slow conduction of single atrial beats at a normal basic sinus rate. Moderate changes in sinus rate and in fast or slow pathway conduction times, or both, changed the position of the slowly conducted beats between the neighboring two fast conducted beats and resulted in various electrocardiographic manifestations of the conduction disturbance. Different blocks, such as second degree type 1, 2:1, 3:1 and possibly also type II, in one of the two pathways and occasionally aberrant conduction induced even more unusual tracings. After intravenous injection of 25 mg of ajmaline, unexpected lengthening and shortening of the A-H interval occurred, suggesting variable shifts between fast and slow pathway conduction. The incidence of dual A-V nodal pathways is discussed; it was documented in 17 (4.2 percent) of 405 patients studied. A theoretical model of A-V nodal conduction is proposed to explain its normal properties and abnormal patterns.", "PMID": 433763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1754", "title": "Systolic click from a Swan-Ganz catheter: phonoechocardiographic depiction of the underlying mechanism.", "content": "Although echocardiographic manifestations of Swan-Ganz catheters have received increasing attention, auscultatory sequelae have not previously been described. In the patient described in this report, insertion of a Swan-Ganz catheter resulted in a loud mid systolic click; removal of the catheter eliminated the click. Simultaneous phonoechocardiograms suggest that the click resulted from crisp contact of the catheter against the ventricular septum. Catheter momentum was enhanced by wide excursion and systemic pressures in the right ventricle; paradoxical motion of the septum during systole may have accentuated the force of its contact with the catheter.", "contents": "Systolic click from a Swan-Ganz catheter: phonoechocardiographic depiction of the underlying mechanism. Although echocardiographic manifestations of Swan-Ganz catheters have received increasing attention, auscultatory sequelae have not previously been described. In the patient described in this report, insertion of a Swan-Ganz catheter resulted in a loud mid systolic click; removal of the catheter eliminated the click. Simultaneous phonoechocardiograms suggest that the click resulted from crisp contact of the catheter against the ventricular septum. Catheter momentum was enhanced by wide excursion and systemic pressures in the right ventricle; paradoxical motion of the septum during systole may have accentuated the force of its contact with the catheter.", "PMID": 433764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1755", "title": "Mid systolic notching of the pulmonary valve in the absence of pulmonary hypertension.", "content": "In a patient with idiopathic dilatation of the pulmonary artery the pulmonary valve echogram showed a prominent mid systolic closing motion or notching indistinguishable from that seen in pulmonary hypertension. Normal right ventricular and pulmonary arterial pressures were recorded simultaneously with echocardiograms of the pulmonary valve.", "contents": "Mid systolic notching of the pulmonary valve in the absence of pulmonary hypertension. In a patient with idiopathic dilatation of the pulmonary artery the pulmonary valve echogram showed a prominent mid systolic closing motion or notching indistinguishable from that seen in pulmonary hypertension. Normal right ventricular and pulmonary arterial pressures were recorded simultaneously with echocardiograms of the pulmonary valve.", "PMID": 433765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1756", "title": "Disopyramide-induced ventricular fibrillation.", "content": "Three cases are described with documented ventricular fibrillation shortly after the patients received disopyramide in moderate dosage. Electrocardiograms showed markedly prolonged Q-T intervals in two patients and a prominent U wave with a prolonged Q-U interval in one patient, but no change in QRS width. Disopyramide-induced ventricular fibrillation appears to be similar to that caused by quinidine and is an indication to discontinue the drug.", "contents": "Disopyramide-induced ventricular fibrillation. Three cases are described with documented ventricular fibrillation shortly after the patients received disopyramide in moderate dosage. Electrocardiograms showed markedly prolonged Q-T intervals in two patients and a prominent U wave with a prolonged Q-U interval in one patient, but no change in QRS width. Disopyramide-induced ventricular fibrillation appears to be similar to that caused by quinidine and is an indication to discontinue the drug.", "PMID": 433766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1757", "title": "Right ventricular apical activation times in patients with conduction disturbances occurring during acute transmural myocardial infarction.", "content": "His bundle and right ventricular apical electrograms were recorded in 18 patients with acute transmural myocardial infarction in whom catheter insertion was considered necessary for clinical reasons. The V-RVA and H-V intervals were of normal duration (5 to 30 and 35 to 55 msec, respectively) in five patients (Group 1) with persistently narrow (less than 100 msec) QRS complexes. In contrast, 13 patients (Group 2) who manifested a \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern within 96 hours after admission had prolonged V-RVA intervals (range 50 to 80 msec, mean 59.2 msec) and H-V intervals that were at the upper limits of normal or prolonged (range 55 to 90 msec, mean 63 msec). In 6 of these 13 patients, the duration of the V-RVA interval became normal when the \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern disappeared and was replaced by a \"complete\" left bundle branch block pattern in three patients and by narrow QRS complexes in the three other patients. This study showed that transmural myocardial infarction in itself did not increase the duration of the V-RVA interval even when \"complete\" left bundle branch block was present. Moreover, a prolonged V-RVA interval coexsting with a \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern was not due to distal right bundle branch block but resulted from a conduction disturbance located in the proximal portions of the right bundle, or perhaps, even within the His bundle itself.", "contents": "Right ventricular apical activation times in patients with conduction disturbances occurring during acute transmural myocardial infarction. His bundle and right ventricular apical electrograms were recorded in 18 patients with acute transmural myocardial infarction in whom catheter insertion was considered necessary for clinical reasons. The V-RVA and H-V intervals were of normal duration (5 to 30 and 35 to 55 msec, respectively) in five patients (Group 1) with persistently narrow (less than 100 msec) QRS complexes. In contrast, 13 patients (Group 2) who manifested a \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern within 96 hours after admission had prolonged V-RVA intervals (range 50 to 80 msec, mean 59.2 msec) and H-V intervals that were at the upper limits of normal or prolonged (range 55 to 90 msec, mean 63 msec). In 6 of these 13 patients, the duration of the V-RVA interval became normal when the \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern disappeared and was replaced by a \"complete\" left bundle branch block pattern in three patients and by narrow QRS complexes in the three other patients. This study showed that transmural myocardial infarction in itself did not increase the duration of the V-RVA interval even when \"complete\" left bundle branch block was present. Moreover, a prolonged V-RVA interval coexsting with a \"complete\" right bundle branch block pattern was not due to distal right bundle branch block but resulted from a conduction disturbance located in the proximal portions of the right bundle, or perhaps, even within the His bundle itself.", "PMID": 433774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1758", "title": "Use of apexcardiography to evaluate left ventricular diastolic compliance in human beings.", "content": "The relation between various relative amplitude measurements of the left apexcardiogram and internally derived indexes of diastolic compliance of the left ventricle was studied in 29 patients. Simultaneous high fidelity recordings of the left apex tracing and left ventricular pressure were obtained in 11 patients without left ventricular disease (group I) and 18 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy (group II). In 204 normal subjects the ratio of the A wave amplitude to the total diastolic deflection (A/D ratio) of the left apexcardiogram was 31.4 +/- 11.4 (mean +/- standard deviation) percent, the ratio of the A wave amplitude to the total height (A/H ratio) 8.9 +/- 4.3 percent and the D/H ratio 30.4 +/- 14.7 percent. The A/D and A/H ratios were significantly (P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.005) increased in group II (69.2 +/- 12.2 percent and 16.8 +/- 8.2 percent, respectively); they were within normal limits in group I. In contrast, the D/H ratio was within normal limits in both groups of patients. The A/D ratio correlated significantly better with specific compliance (deltaV/deltaP.V) (r = -0.87) than did the A/H ratio (r = -0.53), whereas similar correlations were obtained with end-diastolic volume compliance (dV/dPV) (r = -0.61 and r = - 0.64, respectively). In contrast, the D/H ratio correlated significantly only with end-diastolic distensibility index (dV/dP) (r = -0.52). It is concluded that A wave amplitude/total diastolic deflection (A/D) ratio and, to a lesser degree, the A wave amplitude/total height (A/H) ratio of the left apexcardiogram correspond best to diastolic compliance and are useful noninvasive measurements of this property of the left ventricle.", "contents": "Use of apexcardiography to evaluate left ventricular diastolic compliance in human beings. The relation between various relative amplitude measurements of the left apexcardiogram and internally derived indexes of diastolic compliance of the left ventricle was studied in 29 patients. Simultaneous high fidelity recordings of the left apex tracing and left ventricular pressure were obtained in 11 patients without left ventricular disease (group I) and 18 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy (group II). In 204 normal subjects the ratio of the A wave amplitude to the total diastolic deflection (A/D ratio) of the left apexcardiogram was 31.4 +/- 11.4 (mean +/- standard deviation) percent, the ratio of the A wave amplitude to the total height (A/H ratio) 8.9 +/- 4.3 percent and the D/H ratio 30.4 +/- 14.7 percent. The A/D and A/H ratios were significantly (P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.005) increased in group II (69.2 +/- 12.2 percent and 16.8 +/- 8.2 percent, respectively); they were within normal limits in group I. In contrast, the D/H ratio was within normal limits in both groups of patients. The A/D ratio correlated significantly better with specific compliance (deltaV/deltaP.V) (r = -0.87) than did the A/H ratio (r = -0.53), whereas similar correlations were obtained with end-diastolic volume compliance (dV/dPV) (r = -0.61 and r = - 0.64, respectively). In contrast, the D/H ratio correlated significantly only with end-diastolic distensibility index (dV/dP) (r = -0.52). It is concluded that A wave amplitude/total diastolic deflection (A/D) ratio and, to a lesser degree, the A wave amplitude/total height (A/H) ratio of the left apexcardiogram correspond best to diastolic compliance and are useful noninvasive measurements of this property of the left ventricle.", "PMID": 433775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1759", "title": "Lack of correlation between echocardiographic pulmonary valve morphology and simultaneous pulmonary arterial pressure.", "content": "Pulmonary valve echograms recorded simultaneously with right heart pressures were correlated with mean and end-diastolic pulmonary arterial pressures and the peak magnitude of the right atrial a wave in an attempt to predict noninvasively levels and changes in pulmonary arterial pressure. Satisfactory pulmonary valve echograms were obtained in 16 of 23 patients studied. No significant correlation was found between hemodynamic measurements and the echographic pulmonary valve a wave amplitude, diastolic E-F slope or the systolic opening B-C slope. Changes in hemodynamic measurements observed in serial observations were not associated with predictable changes in configuration of the pulmonary valve echogram. The combination of mid systolic pulmonary valve notching and an absent a wave was observed in more advanced degrees of pulmonary hypertension and was specific, but not sensitive, for that condition.", "contents": "Lack of correlation between echocardiographic pulmonary valve morphology and simultaneous pulmonary arterial pressure. Pulmonary valve echograms recorded simultaneously with right heart pressures were correlated with mean and end-diastolic pulmonary arterial pressures and the peak magnitude of the right atrial a wave in an attempt to predict noninvasively levels and changes in pulmonary arterial pressure. Satisfactory pulmonary valve echograms were obtained in 16 of 23 patients studied. No significant correlation was found between hemodynamic measurements and the echographic pulmonary valve a wave amplitude, diastolic E-F slope or the systolic opening B-C slope. Changes in hemodynamic measurements observed in serial observations were not associated with predictable changes in configuration of the pulmonary valve echogram. The combination of mid systolic pulmonary valve notching and an absent a wave was observed in more advanced degrees of pulmonary hypertension and was specific, but not sensitive, for that condition.", "PMID": 433776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1760", "title": "Unusual vascular anomalies causing persistent pulmonary hypertension in a newborn.", "content": "A unique case of pulmonary vascular anomalies causing persistent pulmonary hypertension in a newborn is described. The child died 3 days after birth. Necropsy revealed marked hypoplasia of the right and left pulmonary arteries with a normal main pulmonary artery, patent ductus arteriosus, bilateral systemic arteries to the lungs from the abdominal aorta, and partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Quantitative morphometric techniques demonstrated slight abnormalities of alveolar development and severe arterial medial hypertrophy with abnormal extension of muscle into small peripheral arteries. Bronchopulmonary development appeared relatively normal in spite of the vascular abnormalities.", "contents": "Unusual vascular anomalies causing persistent pulmonary hypertension in a newborn. A unique case of pulmonary vascular anomalies causing persistent pulmonary hypertension in a newborn is described. The child died 3 days after birth. Necropsy revealed marked hypoplasia of the right and left pulmonary arteries with a normal main pulmonary artery, patent ductus arteriosus, bilateral systemic arteries to the lungs from the abdominal aorta, and partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Quantitative morphometric techniques demonstrated slight abnormalities of alveolar development and severe arterial medial hypertrophy with abnormal extension of muscle into small peripheral arteries. Bronchopulmonary development appeared relatively normal in spite of the vascular abnormalities.", "PMID": 433778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1761", "title": "Monitoring ventricular function at rest and during exercise with a nonimaging nuclear detector.", "content": "A portable nonimaging device, the nuclear stethoscope, for measuring beat to beat ventricular time-activity curves in normal people and patients with heart disease, both at rest and during exercise, is being developed and evaluated. The latest device has several operating modes that facilitate left ventricular and background localization, measurement of transit times and automatic calculation and display of left ventricular ejection fraction. The correlation coefficient of left ventricular ejection fraction obtained with the device and with a camera-computer system was 0.92 in 35 subjects. During bicycle exercise the ejection fraction in 15 normal persons increased from 44 to 64 percent (P less than 0.001), whereas among 12 patients with heart disease it was unchanged in 5 and decreased in 7.", "contents": "Monitoring ventricular function at rest and during exercise with a nonimaging nuclear detector. A portable nonimaging device, the nuclear stethoscope, for measuring beat to beat ventricular time-activity curves in normal people and patients with heart disease, both at rest and during exercise, is being developed and evaluated. The latest device has several operating modes that facilitate left ventricular and background localization, measurement of transit times and automatic calculation and display of left ventricular ejection fraction. The correlation coefficient of left ventricular ejection fraction obtained with the device and with a camera-computer system was 0.92 in 35 subjects. During bicycle exercise the ejection fraction in 15 normal persons increased from 44 to 64 percent (P less than 0.001), whereas among 12 patients with heart disease it was unchanged in 5 and decreased in 7.", "PMID": 433780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1762", "title": "Method for the rapid and atraumatic insertion of permanent endocardial pacemaker electrodes through the subclavian vein.", "content": "One hundred sixty-four permanent pacemaker implantations through the subclavian vein were accomplished by 17 different physicians at four institutions utilizing a specially constructed peel-away introducer. Fourteen attempts (8.3 percent) to cannulate the subclavian vein were unsuccessful. There were four cases of pneumothorax (2.4 percent) and two cases of hematoma formation (1.2 percent). The procedure has the advantage of a rapid and atraumatic insertion of a variety of transvenous pacemaker electrodes, and the avoidance of surgical dissection for a venous entrance site.", "contents": "Method for the rapid and atraumatic insertion of permanent endocardial pacemaker electrodes through the subclavian vein. One hundred sixty-four permanent pacemaker implantations through the subclavian vein were accomplished by 17 different physicians at four institutions utilizing a specially constructed peel-away introducer. Fourteen attempts (8.3 percent) to cannulate the subclavian vein were unsuccessful. There were four cases of pneumothorax (2.4 percent) and two cases of hematoma formation (1.2 percent). The procedure has the advantage of a rapid and atraumatic insertion of a variety of transvenous pacemaker electrodes, and the avoidance of surgical dissection for a venous entrance site.", "PMID": 433781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1763", "title": "Effects of digoxin on sinus nodal function before and after vagal blockade in patients with sinus nodal dysfunction: a clue to the mechanisms of the action of digitalis on the sinus node.", "content": "To increase the limited knowledge of the effects of digitalis on sinus nodal function in patients with sinus nodal dysfunction and to initiate an investigation into the mechanisms underlying its effects, 34 patients with sinus nodal dysfunction were studied. Twenty patients underwent determination of sinus cycle length, estimated sinoatrial conduction time and maximal corrected sinus recovery time before and after the administration of 0.75 mg of intravenous digoxin. For the group, sinus cycle length did not change, sinoatrial conduction time increased insignificantly and maximal corrected sinus recovery time shortened; however, individual variation occurred. The effects of acute digitalization appeared to predict the effects of chronic digitalis administration on sinus nodal function in the eight patients who subsequently continued to take digoxin. Fourteen patients received digoxin after vagal blockade with atropine. After vagal blockade, digoxin lengthened sinus cycle length, sinoatrial conduction time and maximal corrected sinus recovery time. The effects of digoxin administered after atropine could be antiadrenergic, direct, or both, and are opposite to those induced by atropine alone. Because these effects are similar to those of vagotonia yet are not apparent when the vagi are unblocked, digoxin may have direct excitatory, adrenergic or previously unrecognized vagolytic effects on sinus nodal function in man and their manifestation may be dependent on heart rate or autonomic tone.", "contents": "Effects of digoxin on sinus nodal function before and after vagal blockade in patients with sinus nodal dysfunction: a clue to the mechanisms of the action of digitalis on the sinus node. To increase the limited knowledge of the effects of digitalis on sinus nodal function in patients with sinus nodal dysfunction and to initiate an investigation into the mechanisms underlying its effects, 34 patients with sinus nodal dysfunction were studied. Twenty patients underwent determination of sinus cycle length, estimated sinoatrial conduction time and maximal corrected sinus recovery time before and after the administration of 0.75 mg of intravenous digoxin. For the group, sinus cycle length did not change, sinoatrial conduction time increased insignificantly and maximal corrected sinus recovery time shortened; however, individual variation occurred. The effects of acute digitalization appeared to predict the effects of chronic digitalis administration on sinus nodal function in the eight patients who subsequently continued to take digoxin. Fourteen patients received digoxin after vagal blockade with atropine. After vagal blockade, digoxin lengthened sinus cycle length, sinoatrial conduction time and maximal corrected sinus recovery time. The effects of digoxin administered after atropine could be antiadrenergic, direct, or both, and are opposite to those induced by atropine alone. Because these effects are similar to those of vagotonia yet are not apparent when the vagi are unblocked, digoxin may have direct excitatory, adrenergic or previously unrecognized vagolytic effects on sinus nodal function in man and their manifestation may be dependent on heart rate or autonomic tone.", "PMID": 433782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1764", "title": "Lack of ouabain effect on pacing-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease.", "content": "Sixteen patients with significant two and three vessel coronary artery disease but without clinical congestive heart failure were studied during rapid atrial pacing before and after infusion of 0.015 mg/kg of ouabain. Seven patients with a decreased (less than 50 percent) ejection fraction and nine patients with a normal ejection fraction had a significant (P less than 0.05) increase in resting arterial systolic pressure after the administration of ouabain. However, resting values for coronary sinus flow, coronary vascular resistance, myocardial oxygen consumption and myocardial lactate extraction did not change significantly in either group. During pacing, patients with a decreased ejection fraction demonstrated more ischemia than patients with a normal ejection fraction; however, the administration of ouabain did not significantly alter pacing-related changes in coronary sinus flow, myocardial oxygen consumption, myocardial lactate extraction, ischemic electrocardiographic changes or onset of chest pain in either group. The administration of ouabain has a negligible effect on coronary hemodynamics, myocardial metabolism or clinical signs of ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease with normal or abnormal left ventricular function.", "contents": "Lack of ouabain effect on pacing-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease. Sixteen patients with significant two and three vessel coronary artery disease but without clinical congestive heart failure were studied during rapid atrial pacing before and after infusion of 0.015 mg/kg of ouabain. Seven patients with a decreased (less than 50 percent) ejection fraction and nine patients with a normal ejection fraction had a significant (P less than 0.05) increase in resting arterial systolic pressure after the administration of ouabain. However, resting values for coronary sinus flow, coronary vascular resistance, myocardial oxygen consumption and myocardial lactate extraction did not change significantly in either group. During pacing, patients with a decreased ejection fraction demonstrated more ischemia than patients with a normal ejection fraction; however, the administration of ouabain did not significantly alter pacing-related changes in coronary sinus flow, myocardial oxygen consumption, myocardial lactate extraction, ischemic electrocardiographic changes or onset of chest pain in either group. The administration of ouabain has a negligible effect on coronary hemodynamics, myocardial metabolism or clinical signs of ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease with normal or abnormal left ventricular function.", "PMID": 433784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1765", "title": "Anatomy of the renal pelvis in the hamster.", "content": "The hamster renal pelvis has been studied by means of low-power light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and morphometric analyses. The results of this study are highly suggestive that the contact of pelvic urine with the other medulla as well as with the inner medulla may be an important aspect of final urine formation. The outer medulla constituted nearly 50% of the total pelvic surface area, with the inner stripe of the outer medulla more than twice the pelvic surface area of the outer stripe of the outer medulla. The large outer medullary pelvic surface area was accounted for by the elaboration of the upper pelvic walls into peripelvic columns, opercula (\"secondary pyramids\"), fornices and secondary pouches. A thin simple-squamous to low cuboidal pelvic epithelium separated pelvic urine from outer medullary parenchyma. The inner medulla which constituted about one quarter of the total pelvic surface area was covered by a cuboidal to columnar pelvic epithelium which appeared morphologically similar to the papillary collecting duct epithelium. Tubules and capillaries of the inner medulla did not appear as closely juxtaposed to the pelvic epithelium as did those of the outer medulla. Cortical tissue comprised only 11.7% of the total pelvic surface area and was covered by transitional epithelium similar to that of ureter and bladder. The previously reported impermeability of this epithelium suggests that pelvic urine contact with the cortex is unimportant in final urine formation. The rich layer of smooth muscle under the transitional epithelium probably functions to move urine into and out of the pelvis during pelvic peristalsis, which has been observed in vivo.", "contents": "Anatomy of the renal pelvis in the hamster. The hamster renal pelvis has been studied by means of low-power light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and morphometric analyses. The results of this study are highly suggestive that the contact of pelvic urine with the other medulla as well as with the inner medulla may be an important aspect of final urine formation. The outer medulla constituted nearly 50% of the total pelvic surface area, with the inner stripe of the outer medulla more than twice the pelvic surface area of the outer stripe of the outer medulla. The large outer medullary pelvic surface area was accounted for by the elaboration of the upper pelvic walls into peripelvic columns, opercula (\"secondary pyramids\"), fornices and secondary pouches. A thin simple-squamous to low cuboidal pelvic epithelium separated pelvic urine from outer medullary parenchyma. The inner medulla which constituted about one quarter of the total pelvic surface area was covered by a cuboidal to columnar pelvic epithelium which appeared morphologically similar to the papillary collecting duct epithelium. Tubules and capillaries of the inner medulla did not appear as closely juxtaposed to the pelvic epithelium as did those of the outer medulla. Cortical tissue comprised only 11.7% of the total pelvic surface area and was covered by transitional epithelium similar to that of ureter and bladder. The previously reported impermeability of this epithelium suggests that pelvic urine contact with the cortex is unimportant in final urine formation. The rich layer of smooth muscle under the transitional epithelium probably functions to move urine into and out of the pelvis during pelvic peristalsis, which has been observed in vivo.", "PMID": 433785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1766", "title": "Retinal development in the lamprey (Petromyzon marinus L.): premetamorphic ammocoete eye.", "content": "Development of the retina of the ammocoete begins early in embryogenesis, with the formation of the optic vesicle, but development of the rudimentary eye is suspended and remains arrested during larval life. Prior to the onset of metamorphosis, the retina of the ammocoete is completely undifferentiated, with the exception of a small area (Zone II) surrounding the optic nerve head, where all of the adult retinal layers are found. The photoreceptors in this area have developed to include synaptic contacts as well as inner and outer segments. The pigment epithelium in this area, too, has differentiated to include well-formed melanin granules, myeloid bodies and endoplasmic reticulum and is closely associated with the receptor cell outer segments. With the approach of metamorphosis, differentiation of the remainder of the retina (Zone I) begins, taking place in a radial fashion from the optic nerve head. Differentiating pigment epithelial cells adjacent to the differentiated retinal zone begin to accumulate melanin granules. In the neural retina, junctional complexes are established in the form of an external limiting membrane, and connecting cilia project into the optic ventricle. Photoreceptor differentiation begins with the formation of a mitochondria-filled ellipsoid within the inner segment. Development and differentiation of the ammocoete retina is unique to vertebrates in that only a small area of differentiated retina is present during the larval stage. The remainder of the retina differentiates and becomes functional during metamorphosis.", "contents": "Retinal development in the lamprey (Petromyzon marinus L.): premetamorphic ammocoete eye. Development of the retina of the ammocoete begins early in embryogenesis, with the formation of the optic vesicle, but development of the rudimentary eye is suspended and remains arrested during larval life. Prior to the onset of metamorphosis, the retina of the ammocoete is completely undifferentiated, with the exception of a small area (Zone II) surrounding the optic nerve head, where all of the adult retinal layers are found. The photoreceptors in this area have developed to include synaptic contacts as well as inner and outer segments. The pigment epithelium in this area, too, has differentiated to include well-formed melanin granules, myeloid bodies and endoplasmic reticulum and is closely associated with the receptor cell outer segments. With the approach of metamorphosis, differentiation of the remainder of the retina (Zone I) begins, taking place in a radial fashion from the optic nerve head. Differentiating pigment epithelial cells adjacent to the differentiated retinal zone begin to accumulate melanin granules. In the neural retina, junctional complexes are established in the form of an external limiting membrane, and connecting cilia project into the optic ventricle. Photoreceptor differentiation begins with the formation of a mitochondria-filled ellipsoid within the inner segment. Development and differentiation of the ammocoete retina is unique to vertebrates in that only a small area of differentiated retina is present during the larval stage. The remainder of the retina differentiates and becomes functional during metamorphosis.", "PMID": 433786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1767", "title": "The corpus luteum of the guinea pig. IV. Fine structure of macrophages during pregnancy and postpartum luteolysis, and the phagocytosis of luteal cells.", "content": "Little information is available on the ultrastructure of macrophages in the corpus luteum or their importance in the regression of luteal tissue. In the present study, the fine structure of activated luteal macrophages during pregnancy and the postpartum period was examined by electron microscopy of guinea pig ovaries fixed by vascular perfusion. In these corpora lutea, macrophages can readily be distinguished from luteal cells. Activated macrophages typically display three prominent inclusions in their cytoplasm: (1) heterophagic vacuoles, (2) distinctive large dense inclusions, and (3) large and small electron-lucent vacuoles. In addition, they contain numerous smaller lysosome-like dense bodies. Activated macrophages in corpora lutea also characteristically show many surface protrusions, such as processes, folds or pseudopodia, which often occur in close contact with nearby luteal cells. Generally, nuclei of macrophages are irregular in shape and display a dense border of heterochromatin, thus differing from those of luteal cells. Macrophages seem to be most abundant in regressing corpora lutea, where they commonly display heterophagic vacuoles containing recognizable luteal cell fragments, evidence that these phagocytes ingest senescent luteal cells. The digestion of luteal cell components in heterophagic vacuoles presumably gives rise to the distinctive large dense inclusions typically seen in macrophages. The findings of this study indicate that macrophages play a central role in luteolysis by phagocytizing luteal cells or their remnants. They therefore appear to bring about the reduction in volume of the corpus luteum that occurs as this tissue regresses. These results taken together with those previously published (Paavola, '78) further indicate that breakdown of the corpus luteum during postpartum luteolysis in guinea pigs involves both autophagy and heterophagy.", "contents": "The corpus luteum of the guinea pig. IV. Fine structure of macrophages during pregnancy and postpartum luteolysis, and the phagocytosis of luteal cells. Little information is available on the ultrastructure of macrophages in the corpus luteum or their importance in the regression of luteal tissue. In the present study, the fine structure of activated luteal macrophages during pregnancy and the postpartum period was examined by electron microscopy of guinea pig ovaries fixed by vascular perfusion. In these corpora lutea, macrophages can readily be distinguished from luteal cells. Activated macrophages typically display three prominent inclusions in their cytoplasm: (1) heterophagic vacuoles, (2) distinctive large dense inclusions, and (3) large and small electron-lucent vacuoles. In addition, they contain numerous smaller lysosome-like dense bodies. Activated macrophages in corpora lutea also characteristically show many surface protrusions, such as processes, folds or pseudopodia, which often occur in close contact with nearby luteal cells. Generally, nuclei of macrophages are irregular in shape and display a dense border of heterochromatin, thus differing from those of luteal cells. Macrophages seem to be most abundant in regressing corpora lutea, where they commonly display heterophagic vacuoles containing recognizable luteal cell fragments, evidence that these phagocytes ingest senescent luteal cells. The digestion of luteal cell components in heterophagic vacuoles presumably gives rise to the distinctive large dense inclusions typically seen in macrophages. The findings of this study indicate that macrophages play a central role in luteolysis by phagocytizing luteal cells or their remnants. They therefore appear to bring about the reduction in volume of the corpus luteum that occurs as this tissue regresses. These results taken together with those previously published (Paavola, '78) further indicate that breakdown of the corpus luteum during postpartum luteolysis in guinea pigs involves both autophagy and heterophagy.", "PMID": 433787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1768", "title": "The atrioventricular node and bundle in the ferret heart: a light and quantitative electron microscopic study.", "content": "The cells of the atrioventricular (AV) junction in the ferret heart were examined using light microscopy, a wax-model reconstruction and quantitative electron microscopy to determine their organization and characteristics. A series of subdivisions of the specialized tissues of the AV junction was apparent at both the light and electron microscopic levels. A transitional zone was observed interposed between the atrial muscle cells and the AV node. The AV node consisted of a coronary sinus portion, a superficial portion and a deep portion. The AV bundle had a segment above the anulus fibrosus, a segment which penetrated the right fibrous trigone, a non-branching segment below the anulus fibrosus and a branched segment. At the ultrastructural level the AV junctional conduction tissues had fewer irregularly oriented myofibrils than did working atrial myocardial cells. T-tubules, present in atrial muscle cells, were not observed in the modified muscle cells of the AV node and bundle. Conventional intercalated discs also were not observed between the cells of the AV node or the AV bundle. Atrial myocardial cells had the highest percentage of the plasma membrane occupied by desmosomes, fasciae adherentes and gap junctions. The AV bundle cells had the highest percentage of appositional surface membrane and a relatively large fraction of plasma membrane occupied by gap junctions. Cells of the superficial portion of the AV node had the smallest percentage of the plasma membrane composed of gap junctions, desmosomes or fasciae adherentes, as well as the smallest fraction of the cell membrane apposed to adjacent cells. The stereological data indicate that the most useful distinguishing characteristic between atrial muscle cells and conduction cells was that a smaller percentage of the conduction cell sarcoplasm was occupied by mitochondria and myofibrils. The most useful characteristics that could be used to differentiate between the regions of the AV junctional conduction tissues were the amounts and types of surface membrane specializations in the respective cell types.", "contents": "The atrioventricular node and bundle in the ferret heart: a light and quantitative electron microscopic study. The cells of the atrioventricular (AV) junction in the ferret heart were examined using light microscopy, a wax-model reconstruction and quantitative electron microscopy to determine their organization and characteristics. A series of subdivisions of the specialized tissues of the AV junction was apparent at both the light and electron microscopic levels. A transitional zone was observed interposed between the atrial muscle cells and the AV node. The AV node consisted of a coronary sinus portion, a superficial portion and a deep portion. The AV bundle had a segment above the anulus fibrosus, a segment which penetrated the right fibrous trigone, a non-branching segment below the anulus fibrosus and a branched segment. At the ultrastructural level the AV junctional conduction tissues had fewer irregularly oriented myofibrils than did working atrial myocardial cells. T-tubules, present in atrial muscle cells, were not observed in the modified muscle cells of the AV node and bundle. Conventional intercalated discs also were not observed between the cells of the AV node or the AV bundle. Atrial myocardial cells had the highest percentage of the plasma membrane occupied by desmosomes, fasciae adherentes and gap junctions. The AV bundle cells had the highest percentage of appositional surface membrane and a relatively large fraction of plasma membrane occupied by gap junctions. Cells of the superficial portion of the AV node had the smallest percentage of the plasma membrane composed of gap junctions, desmosomes or fasciae adherentes, as well as the smallest fraction of the cell membrane apposed to adjacent cells. The stereological data indicate that the most useful distinguishing characteristic between atrial muscle cells and conduction cells was that a smaller percentage of the conduction cell sarcoplasm was occupied by mitochondria and myofibrils. The most useful characteristics that could be used to differentiate between the regions of the AV junctional conduction tissues were the amounts and types of surface membrane specializations in the respective cell types.", "PMID": 433788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1769", "title": "The cochlear nuclei in man.", "content": "The human cochlear nuclei are composed of a ventral and a dorsal nucleus which are similar, though not identical, in their cytoarchitecture to those of other mammals. The ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN) consists of a rostral area of spherical cells, a central area of multipolar and globular cells, a posterior area of octopus cells, and laterodorsal cap of small neurons. The interareal boundaries are less distinct in man than in the cat. The central region of multipolar cells and the cap area of small cells constitute the bulk of the human VCN. The spherical, globular, and octopus cells appear relatively less numerous in man than in other mammals. The dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) in man is relatively large, but lacks the typical stratification seen in other mammals, with only vestiges of the granular and molecular layers remaining. Virtually the entire DCN consists of an area of cochlear fiber neuropil containing pyramidal cells, small neurons, and occasional giant cells. The pyramidal cells have lost their typical radial orientation and lie scattered within the cochlear neuropil. Thus the entire human DCN may be equivalent to layers 2 and 3 of this nucleus in other mammals. In spite of the relatively large DCN, the acoustic striae appear small. This is in contrast to the large trapezoid body leaving the VCN. Intrinsic and descending fiber pathways to the cochlear nuclei are not clearly defined and may be less prominent in man than in the cat.", "contents": "The cochlear nuclei in man. The human cochlear nuclei are composed of a ventral and a dorsal nucleus which are similar, though not identical, in their cytoarchitecture to those of other mammals. The ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN) consists of a rostral area of spherical cells, a central area of multipolar and globular cells, a posterior area of octopus cells, and laterodorsal cap of small neurons. The interareal boundaries are less distinct in man than in the cat. The central region of multipolar cells and the cap area of small cells constitute the bulk of the human VCN. The spherical, globular, and octopus cells appear relatively less numerous in man than in other mammals. The dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) in man is relatively large, but lacks the typical stratification seen in other mammals, with only vestiges of the granular and molecular layers remaining. Virtually the entire DCN consists of an area of cochlear fiber neuropil containing pyramidal cells, small neurons, and occasional giant cells. The pyramidal cells have lost their typical radial orientation and lie scattered within the cochlear neuropil. Thus the entire human DCN may be equivalent to layers 2 and 3 of this nucleus in other mammals. In spite of the relatively large DCN, the acoustic striae appear small. This is in contrast to the large trapezoid body leaving the VCN. Intrinsic and descending fiber pathways to the cochlear nuclei are not clearly defined and may be less prominent in man than in the cat.", "PMID": 433789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1770", "title": "A scanning electron microscope study of aberrations in the prism pattern of rat incisor inner enamel.", "content": "The prism pattern in the inner enamel of adult rat incisors was studied with the SEM in unfixed tissues that had been sectioned, ground, polished, and etched. Six different types of aberrations in the prism pattern were encountered: 1. Prism lamellae may be shorter than the mesio-lateral width of enamel. 2. Prism lamellae may deviate from a transverse orientation. 3. Prism lamellae may \"fuse\" or \"bifurcate.\" 4. Prisms of two adjacent lamellae may pursue a common course. 5. Prisms may change direction. 6. Variations exist in the outline of transversely cut prism profiles. Aberrations were observed at any distance from the dentino-enamel junction. These observations were used as a basis for an analysis of the movement of ameloblasts during rat incisor amelogenesis. It was concluded that it is physically possible for the ameloblasts to create the observed aberrations as they move along the path of the prisms. However, the aberrations seem to make it more difficult to understand the factors controlling ameloblast movement. Occasionally crystallite bridges connecting adjacent prisms were observed. A configuration resembling a bifurcating prism is pesented.", "contents": "A scanning electron microscope study of aberrations in the prism pattern of rat incisor inner enamel. The prism pattern in the inner enamel of adult rat incisors was studied with the SEM in unfixed tissues that had been sectioned, ground, polished, and etched. Six different types of aberrations in the prism pattern were encountered: 1. Prism lamellae may be shorter than the mesio-lateral width of enamel. 2. Prism lamellae may deviate from a transverse orientation. 3. Prism lamellae may \"fuse\" or \"bifurcate.\" 4. Prisms of two adjacent lamellae may pursue a common course. 5. Prisms may change direction. 6. Variations exist in the outline of transversely cut prism profiles. Aberrations were observed at any distance from the dentino-enamel junction. These observations were used as a basis for an analysis of the movement of ameloblasts during rat incisor amelogenesis. It was concluded that it is physically possible for the ameloblasts to create the observed aberrations as they move along the path of the prisms. However, the aberrations seem to make it more difficult to understand the factors controlling ameloblast movement. Occasionally crystallite bridges connecting adjacent prisms were observed. A configuration resembling a bifurcating prism is pesented.", "PMID": 433790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1771", "title": "A comparative radioautographic study of chondrocytic proliferation in nasal septal cartilage of the 5-day-old rat, rabbit, guinea pig and beagle.", "content": "Growth sites within the cartilaginous nasal septa of four different species of animals (5-day-old rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and beagles) were identified by monitoring cellular proliferation radioautographically. A statistical analysis (MANOVA) was employed. It showed that, of the six combinations compared (rat-beagle, rat-guinea pig, rat-rabbit, beagle-guinea pig, beagle-rabbit, and guinea pig-rabbit), in only one (beagle-guinea pig) was there any similarity in growth pattern. The other five combinations all were significantly different. Since no particular areas emerged, with any consistency, as common growth sites within any of the four kinds of septa, it was concluded that the nasal septum might well play a passive role in midfacial growth, rather than an active role as previously thought.", "contents": "A comparative radioautographic study of chondrocytic proliferation in nasal septal cartilage of the 5-day-old rat, rabbit, guinea pig and beagle. Growth sites within the cartilaginous nasal septa of four different species of animals (5-day-old rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and beagles) were identified by monitoring cellular proliferation radioautographically. A statistical analysis (MANOVA) was employed. It showed that, of the six combinations compared (rat-beagle, rat-guinea pig, rat-rabbit, beagle-guinea pig, beagle-rabbit, and guinea pig-rabbit), in only one (beagle-guinea pig) was there any similarity in growth pattern. The other five combinations all were significantly different. Since no particular areas emerged, with any consistency, as common growth sites within any of the four kinds of septa, it was concluded that the nasal septum might well play a passive role in midfacial growth, rather than an active role as previously thought.", "PMID": 433791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1772", "title": "Influence of iron upon the development of tetracycline-treated mouse tooth germs in vitro (1).", "content": "The inhibitory action of tetracycline on the development of embryonic mouse incisors cultured in vitro was examined. Explants exposed to tetracycline were severely inhibited in development. In contrast, tooth germs cultured in the presence of both tetracycline and iron escaped inhibition and attained a stage of development which compared favorably with the controls.", "contents": "Influence of iron upon the development of tetracycline-treated mouse tooth germs in vitro (1). The inhibitory action of tetracycline on the development of embryonic mouse incisors cultured in vitro was examined. Explants exposed to tetracycline were severely inhibited in development. In contrast, tooth germs cultured in the presence of both tetracycline and iron escaped inhibition and attained a stage of development which compared favorably with the controls.", "PMID": 433792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1773", "title": "Lack of association between avian cartilages of different embryological origins when maintained in vitro.", "content": "The possibility that cartilages of differing embryological origins behave as separate types with respect to cell-to-cell associations was tested by placing the cut ends of transversely sectioned embryonic chick tibial cartilages (of mesodermal origin) in apposition to transversely sectioned Meckel's cartilages (neural crest (ectodermal) cartilage) on the surface of a semi-solid organ culture medium and maintaining the combinations in vitro for five to ten days. Tibia-tibia and Meckel's cartilage-Meckel's cartilage (homotypic) combinations, which served as controls, became united by a common extracellular matrix and by the proliferation of chondroblasts. Analysis of combinations where one partner had been prelabelled with 3H-thymidine indicated that chondroblasts intermingled at the contact zone. In contrast, tibia-Meckel's cartilage (heterotypic) combinations became separated by a layer of fibrous tissue. The chondroblasts at the contact zone failed to intermingle. We conclude that avian embryonic chondrocytes are not all equivalent and that part of their nonequivalence could be related to their embryological origin either from the mesoderm or from the ectodermal neural crest.", "contents": "Lack of association between avian cartilages of different embryological origins when maintained in vitro. The possibility that cartilages of differing embryological origins behave as separate types with respect to cell-to-cell associations was tested by placing the cut ends of transversely sectioned embryonic chick tibial cartilages (of mesodermal origin) in apposition to transversely sectioned Meckel's cartilages (neural crest (ectodermal) cartilage) on the surface of a semi-solid organ culture medium and maintaining the combinations in vitro for five to ten days. Tibia-tibia and Meckel's cartilage-Meckel's cartilage (homotypic) combinations, which served as controls, became united by a common extracellular matrix and by the proliferation of chondroblasts. Analysis of combinations where one partner had been prelabelled with 3H-thymidine indicated that chondroblasts intermingled at the contact zone. In contrast, tibia-Meckel's cartilage (heterotypic) combinations became separated by a layer of fibrous tissue. The chondroblasts at the contact zone failed to intermingle. We conclude that avian embryonic chondrocytes are not all equivalent and that part of their nonequivalence could be related to their embryological origin either from the mesoderm or from the ectodermal neural crest.", "PMID": 433793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1774", "title": "Evidence that sclerotomal cells do not migrate medially during normal embryonic development of the rat.", "content": "During embryonic development the medial part of the somite disorganizes or breaks up into sclerotomal cells which, according to many published reports, migrate medially to surround the notochord. The purpose of the study was to determine whether these cells actually migrate medially toward the notochord. Distances were measured between the notochord and the adjacent neural tube and the somite or its remnant during the period of somite disorganization. Serially sectioned, normal 10.5- to 13.5-day (d) rat embryos were used. Only transverse sections through the middle of the fourth cervical (C-4) body segment were measured, corresponding to the level of somite No. 8 (10.5 d) or its dermatomyotome remnant (10.5-11.5d) or spinal nerve C-4 (12.5-13.5d). Measurements were taken at six stages from photographic montages, all of which were made at precisely the same magnification. The notochord was the central axial structure from which the measurements were determined. The changes in distance show that during the period of somite breakup the neural tube grows dorsally, away from the notochord which lies adjacent to its ventral surface. Simultaneously the somite remnant moves laterally and dorsally, all the while maintaining its position relative to the overlying ectoderm and leaving behind a trail of sclerotomal cells. Also at each stage cell counts were made on the medial sclerotomal region of the C-4 segment. The average counts reveal that not only does the total number of cells increase substantially over the three-day period (42-7,546), but also the total number of mitoses (3.5-200), while the mitotic index decreases (9.0-2.7). High proliferative activity is apparent in the medial sclerotomal cells throughout the 3-day period. The evidence supports the conclusion that local proliferation of the trailing cells, which were left by the somite remnant as it moved dorsolaterally, causes the subsequent increase in density of the perichordal tissue, rather than an influx of migrating cells. Instead of sclerotomal cells migrating medially toward the notochord, the present study suggests that these cells retain their position relative to the notochord or central axis and that the medial sclerotomal region forms as a result of the growth movements of the surrounding structures.", "contents": "Evidence that sclerotomal cells do not migrate medially during normal embryonic development of the rat. During embryonic development the medial part of the somite disorganizes or breaks up into sclerotomal cells which, according to many published reports, migrate medially to surround the notochord. The purpose of the study was to determine whether these cells actually migrate medially toward the notochord. Distances were measured between the notochord and the adjacent neural tube and the somite or its remnant during the period of somite disorganization. Serially sectioned, normal 10.5- to 13.5-day (d) rat embryos were used. Only transverse sections through the middle of the fourth cervical (C-4) body segment were measured, corresponding to the level of somite No. 8 (10.5 d) or its dermatomyotome remnant (10.5-11.5d) or spinal nerve C-4 (12.5-13.5d). Measurements were taken at six stages from photographic montages, all of which were made at precisely the same magnification. The notochord was the central axial structure from which the measurements were determined. The changes in distance show that during the period of somite breakup the neural tube grows dorsally, away from the notochord which lies adjacent to its ventral surface. Simultaneously the somite remnant moves laterally and dorsally, all the while maintaining its position relative to the overlying ectoderm and leaving behind a trail of sclerotomal cells. Also at each stage cell counts were made on the medial sclerotomal region of the C-4 segment. The average counts reveal that not only does the total number of cells increase substantially over the three-day period (42-7,546), but also the total number of mitoses (3.5-200), while the mitotic index decreases (9.0-2.7). High proliferative activity is apparent in the medial sclerotomal cells throughout the 3-day period. The evidence supports the conclusion that local proliferation of the trailing cells, which were left by the somite remnant as it moved dorsolaterally, causes the subsequent increase in density of the perichordal tissue, rather than an influx of migrating cells. Instead of sclerotomal cells migrating medially toward the notochord, the present study suggests that these cells retain their position relative to the notochord or central axis and that the medial sclerotomal region forms as a result of the growth movements of the surrounding structures.", "PMID": 433794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1775", "title": "Fine structural studies of rat seminal vesicle in castrated and intact animals following estrogen treatment.", "content": "The effect of estradiol and/or testosterone upon secretion by seminal vesicle in castrated and intact rats was assessed in young adult Sprague-Dawley rats, using light microscopy (LM), transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM)electron microscopy. Hormones were injected daily for ten days beginning ten days after castrations were performed. The normal rat seminal vesicle, as revealed by SEM, was characterized by a large saccular lumen with highly folded walls. Cell surfaces were covered with microvilli, or occasionally displayed a protruding, ruffled surface, sparsely covered with short microvilli. Cytology was normal in testosterone-treated animals. Estradiol treatment of castrated animals stimulated secretion by seminal vesicle epithelial cells as evidenced by the presence of normal secretory bodies, the presence of RER, and moderately hypertrophied Golgi complexes. These glands were not heavier than were glands from castrated, untreated animals, although the epithelial cells were significantly taller. Secretion was maintained in intact animals treated with estradiol, although glands were smaller and epithelial height was reduced. Estradiol and testosterone treatment in combination did not appear to have an additive effect on secretion, weight of the gland, or epithelial height. The following results support the hypothesis that estrogen-induced prolactin synthesis and release may be involved in the mechanism by which estradiol effected stimulation of seminal vesicle epithelium. Prolactin-treated, castrated animals exhibited focal areas of stimulated epithelium. In hypophysectomized animals (untreated controls), the seminal vesicle epithelium retained some secretory bodies and secretory fluid in the glandular lumen; epithelial height was taller than that in castrated controls. Estrogen treatment reduced the epithelial height to that of castrated controls; there was no evidence of secretion. This suggests that in the absence of anterior pituitary hormones, including prolactin, the stimulatory effect of estradiol on seminal vesicle epithelium was nullified. In adrenalectomized/castrated animals, estradiol treatment stimulated secretion in seminal vesicle epithelium just as in non-adrenalectomized/castrated animals. This indicates that the adrenal gland plays a non-essential role in the action of estrogen on seminal vesicle epithelium.", "contents": "Fine structural studies of rat seminal vesicle in castrated and intact animals following estrogen treatment. The effect of estradiol and/or testosterone upon secretion by seminal vesicle in castrated and intact rats was assessed in young adult Sprague-Dawley rats, using light microscopy (LM), transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM)electron microscopy. Hormones were injected daily for ten days beginning ten days after castrations were performed. The normal rat seminal vesicle, as revealed by SEM, was characterized by a large saccular lumen with highly folded walls. Cell surfaces were covered with microvilli, or occasionally displayed a protruding, ruffled surface, sparsely covered with short microvilli. Cytology was normal in testosterone-treated animals. Estradiol treatment of castrated animals stimulated secretion by seminal vesicle epithelial cells as evidenced by the presence of normal secretory bodies, the presence of RER, and moderately hypertrophied Golgi complexes. These glands were not heavier than were glands from castrated, untreated animals, although the epithelial cells were significantly taller. Secretion was maintained in intact animals treated with estradiol, although glands were smaller and epithelial height was reduced. Estradiol and testosterone treatment in combination did not appear to have an additive effect on secretion, weight of the gland, or epithelial height. The following results support the hypothesis that estrogen-induced prolactin synthesis and release may be involved in the mechanism by which estradiol effected stimulation of seminal vesicle epithelium. Prolactin-treated, castrated animals exhibited focal areas of stimulated epithelium. In hypophysectomized animals (untreated controls), the seminal vesicle epithelium retained some secretory bodies and secretory fluid in the glandular lumen; epithelial height was taller than that in castrated controls. Estrogen treatment reduced the epithelial height to that of castrated controls; there was no evidence of secretion. This suggests that in the absence of anterior pituitary hormones, including prolactin, the stimulatory effect of estradiol on seminal vesicle epithelium was nullified. In adrenalectomized/castrated animals, estradiol treatment stimulated secretion in seminal vesicle epithelium just as in non-adrenalectomized/castrated animals. This indicates that the adrenal gland plays a non-essential role in the action of estrogen on seminal vesicle epithelium.", "PMID": 433795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1776", "title": "Morphogenesis of the truncus arteriosus of the chick embryo heart: the formation and migration of mesenchymal tissue.", "content": "The appearance and migration of mesenchymal cushion tissue within the truncus arteriosus of the normal 2.5 to 6-day chick embryo heart was surveyed systemically with the light microscope. Series of cross-sections taken from replicate hearts at successive developmental stages allowed comparison of the following qualitative and quantitative aspects of early truncal morphogenesis. Mesenchyme within the truncus was derived from two distinct sources. The first mesenchyme appeared to migrate caudally into the cardiac jelly of the distal truncus from the nearby aortic arch region, coincident with slowing of the anterior elongation of the heart tube (Hamburger-Hamilton Stage 17-18). A second, separate mesenchymal population, derived from endocardium, began to fill the conus and proximal truncus in a radial direction, coicident with expansion of the bulbs cordis (Stage 12-19). The measured kinetics of relative cell numbers, distributions, and mitotic indices suggest substantial contributions from both sources. By Stage 26, the conotruncal region was filled with mesenchyme, which then condensed to form the anlagen of three future structures: the semilunar valves, the aorticopulmonary septum, and the tunica media of the great arteries.", "contents": "Morphogenesis of the truncus arteriosus of the chick embryo heart: the formation and migration of mesenchymal tissue. The appearance and migration of mesenchymal cushion tissue within the truncus arteriosus of the normal 2.5 to 6-day chick embryo heart was surveyed systemically with the light microscope. Series of cross-sections taken from replicate hearts at successive developmental stages allowed comparison of the following qualitative and quantitative aspects of early truncal morphogenesis. Mesenchyme within the truncus was derived from two distinct sources. The first mesenchyme appeared to migrate caudally into the cardiac jelly of the distal truncus from the nearby aortic arch region, coincident with slowing of the anterior elongation of the heart tube (Hamburger-Hamilton Stage 17-18). A second, separate mesenchymal population, derived from endocardium, began to fill the conus and proximal truncus in a radial direction, coicident with expansion of the bulbs cordis (Stage 12-19). The measured kinetics of relative cell numbers, distributions, and mitotic indices suggest substantial contributions from both sources. By Stage 26, the conotruncal region was filled with mesenchyme, which then condensed to form the anlagen of three future structures: the semilunar valves, the aorticopulmonary septum, and the tunica media of the great arteries.", "PMID": 433796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1777", "title": "The rostral level of origin of sympathetic neurons in the chick embryo, studied in tissue culture.", "content": "Groups of three consecutive somites from the first to the eleventh somite from chick embryos of stages 17-18 were grown in tissue culture for seven days. Sympathetic neurons, identified both by phase contrast microscopy and FIF histochemistry, occurred only in cultures which included the sixth, or more caudal, somites. If it is assumed that sympathetic precursor cells (neural crest cells) have not undergone a caudal shift prior to stages 17-18, and taking into account the loss of one or two rostral somites, then the anterior sympathetic ganglia are derived from neural crest caudal to the sixth or seventh somite. Thus, the vagal zone (level with somites 1-7) contributes little to the sympathetic nervous system.", "contents": "The rostral level of origin of sympathetic neurons in the chick embryo, studied in tissue culture. Groups of three consecutive somites from the first to the eleventh somite from chick embryos of stages 17-18 were grown in tissue culture for seven days. Sympathetic neurons, identified both by phase contrast microscopy and FIF histochemistry, occurred only in cultures which included the sixth, or more caudal, somites. If it is assumed that sympathetic precursor cells (neural crest cells) have not undergone a caudal shift prior to stages 17-18, and taking into account the loss of one or two rostral somites, then the anterior sympathetic ganglia are derived from neural crest caudal to the sixth or seventh somite. Thus, the vagal zone (level with somites 1-7) contributes little to the sympathetic nervous system.", "PMID": 433797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1778", "title": "Functional heterogeneity in a multipinnate muscle.", "content": "Many mammalian muscles have a complex internal architecture. This type of structure could allow a single muscle to produce a variety of force vectors through selective regional contractions. This hypothesis was tested electromyographically in the multipinnate pig masseter by recording simultaneously from several intramuscular sites. It was found that the activity in different portions of the masseter varied systematically during the various phases of mastication. anatomical correlates of the differential activity included fasciculus orientation and length, sarcomere length in specific jaw positions, and histochemical fiber type. The usual assumptions made about muscles for biomechanical analysis, such as uniform contraction and constant line of action, are inappropriate for complex muscles such as the pig masseter.", "contents": "Functional heterogeneity in a multipinnate muscle. Many mammalian muscles have a complex internal architecture. This type of structure could allow a single muscle to produce a variety of force vectors through selective regional contractions. This hypothesis was tested electromyographically in the multipinnate pig masseter by recording simultaneously from several intramuscular sites. It was found that the activity in different portions of the masseter varied systematically during the various phases of mastication. anatomical correlates of the differential activity included fasciculus orientation and length, sarcomere length in specific jaw positions, and histochemical fiber type. The usual assumptions made about muscles for biomechanical analysis, such as uniform contraction and constant line of action, are inappropriate for complex muscles such as the pig masseter.", "PMID": 433798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1779", "title": "Protein-induced hypercalciuria: a longer term study.", "content": "Urine calcium excretion is known to be directly correlated with the level of dietary protein intake. In this experiment we examined the persistence of the hypercalciuria induced by the consumption of high protein diets, and the mechanism of the calciuric response. In a 95-day metabolic study, each of six adult male subjects received formula diets supplying 12 g nitrogen or 36 g nitrogen, and approximately 1400 mg calcium per day. Urine calcium increased rapidly and significantly from an average of 191 mg/day on the 12 g nitrogen diet to 277 mg/day on the 36 g nitrogen diet. There was no significant difference in the apparent absorption of calcium, so that overall calcium balance was -37 mg/day on the 12 g nitrogen diet, and significantly lower at -137 mg/day in subjects consuming the high protein diet. Levels of urinary hydroxyproline, serum insulin, and parathyroid hormone were not significantly increased by high intakes of protein. A decrease in the fractional reabsorption of calcium by the kidney seems to be the most likely cause of the protein-induced hypercalciuria. The consumption of high calcium diets is unlikely to prevent the negative calcium balance and probable bone loss induced by the consumption of high protein diets.", "contents": "Protein-induced hypercalciuria: a longer term study. Urine calcium excretion is known to be directly correlated with the level of dietary protein intake. In this experiment we examined the persistence of the hypercalciuria induced by the consumption of high protein diets, and the mechanism of the calciuric response. In a 95-day metabolic study, each of six adult male subjects received formula diets supplying 12 g nitrogen or 36 g nitrogen, and approximately 1400 mg calcium per day. Urine calcium increased rapidly and significantly from an average of 191 mg/day on the 12 g nitrogen diet to 277 mg/day on the 36 g nitrogen diet. There was no significant difference in the apparent absorption of calcium, so that overall calcium balance was -37 mg/day on the 12 g nitrogen diet, and significantly lower at -137 mg/day in subjects consuming the high protein diet. Levels of urinary hydroxyproline, serum insulin, and parathyroid hormone were not significantly increased by high intakes of protein. A decrease in the fractional reabsorption of calcium by the kidney seems to be the most likely cause of the protein-induced hypercalciuria. The consumption of high calcium diets is unlikely to prevent the negative calcium balance and probable bone loss induced by the consumption of high protein diets.", "PMID": 433806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1780", "title": "Total free amino acids, ammonia, and protein in the sweat of children.", "content": "The concentrations of total free amino acids, ammonia and protein in sweat of 44 children, 20 males, and 24 females, 6 to 8 years old, were determined. The children were divided into three groups according to their height, weight, and body weight/height ratio; group I children had heights and weights below the 10th percentile for their age, group II had heights and weights between the 10th and 90th percentile, and group III had heights and weights above the 90th percentile. Sweating was induced by allowing the child to be moderatley active. The temperature at the time of the experiment was 31 to 33 C and the relative humidity 48%. The mean concentrations of total free amino acids (mg/100 ml) in sweat from groups I, II, and III children were 318.9 +/- 52.5, 293.9 +/- 82.9 and 265.1 +/- 57.0, respectively. Alanine, glycine, phenylalanine, threonine, and serine were the principal amino acids in sweat. The concentrations of ammonia in the sweat of group I, II, and III children were 6.90 +/- 2.97, 2.35 +/- 0.81, and 1.17 +/- 0.48 mg/100 ml, respectively. Protein concentrations were 44.15 +/- 14.07, 40.70 +/- 16.60, and 35.75 +/- 5.46 mg/100 ml, respectively.", "contents": "Total free amino acids, ammonia, and protein in the sweat of children. The concentrations of total free amino acids, ammonia and protein in sweat of 44 children, 20 males, and 24 females, 6 to 8 years old, were determined. The children were divided into three groups according to their height, weight, and body weight/height ratio; group I children had heights and weights below the 10th percentile for their age, group II had heights and weights between the 10th and 90th percentile, and group III had heights and weights above the 90th percentile. Sweating was induced by allowing the child to be moderatley active. The temperature at the time of the experiment was 31 to 33 C and the relative humidity 48%. The mean concentrations of total free amino acids (mg/100 ml) in sweat from groups I, II, and III children were 318.9 +/- 52.5, 293.9 +/- 82.9 and 265.1 +/- 57.0, respectively. Alanine, glycine, phenylalanine, threonine, and serine were the principal amino acids in sweat. The concentrations of ammonia in the sweat of group I, II, and III children were 6.90 +/- 2.97, 2.35 +/- 0.81, and 1.17 +/- 0.48 mg/100 ml, respectively. Protein concentrations were 44.15 +/- 14.07, 40.70 +/- 16.60, and 35.75 +/- 5.46 mg/100 ml, respectively.", "PMID": 433807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1781", "title": "Long-term effects of kwashiorkor on the electroencephalogram.", "content": "The long-term effects of kwashiorkor on the electroencephalogram were assessed by means of computer analysis techniques. The experimental group, consisting of 30 black children, 6 to 12 years old, hospitalized for the treatment of kwashiorkor during the first 27 months of life, was age-matched with three control groups. These were a group of siblings and of yardmates, neither of whom had been exposed to acute infantile malnutrition, and a very high socioeconomic group of white children. The results revealed significantly less alpha activity and more slow-wave activity in the electroencephalogram of the kwashiokor group than in those of the control groups. These findings confirmed previous results based on visual analysis procedures.", "contents": "Long-term effects of kwashiorkor on the electroencephalogram. The long-term effects of kwashiorkor on the electroencephalogram were assessed by means of computer analysis techniques. The experimental group, consisting of 30 black children, 6 to 12 years old, hospitalized for the treatment of kwashiorkor during the first 27 months of life, was age-matched with three control groups. These were a group of siblings and of yardmates, neither of whom had been exposed to acute infantile malnutrition, and a very high socioeconomic group of white children. The results revealed significantly less alpha activity and more slow-wave activity in the electroencephalogram of the kwashiokor group than in those of the control groups. These findings confirmed previous results based on visual analysis procedures.", "PMID": 433808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1782", "title": "Functional assessment of nutritional status: heart rate response to submaximal work.", "content": "The heart rate response to submaximal treadmill work been calculated using the heart rates and oxygen intakes obtained from normally nourished and undernourished adult male subjects during a maximal oxygen consumption test. Increased severity of malnutrition was associated with an increased heart rate response to the same submaximal work loads. The response was observed to decrease during a period of high protein dietary repletion of the most severely malnourished subjects. The data suggest the possibility of developing a submaximal work test for use in the field to provide physiological data to supplement anthropometric and biochemical information used to assess the nutritional status of populations.", "contents": "Functional assessment of nutritional status: heart rate response to submaximal work. The heart rate response to submaximal treadmill work been calculated using the heart rates and oxygen intakes obtained from normally nourished and undernourished adult male subjects during a maximal oxygen consumption test. Increased severity of malnutrition was associated with an increased heart rate response to the same submaximal work loads. The response was observed to decrease during a period of high protein dietary repletion of the most severely malnourished subjects. The data suggest the possibility of developing a submaximal work test for use in the field to provide physiological data to supplement anthropometric and biochemical information used to assess the nutritional status of populations.", "PMID": 433809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1783", "title": "Insulin and glucose responses in rats fed sucrose or starch.", "content": "Rats fed 54% sucrose for 11 to 13 weeks ad libitum or 5 weeks ad libitum followed by 6 to 8 weeks of meal feeding had significantly higher serum insulin, glucose, and triglyceride levels than rats fed comparable amounts of starch after 12 to 14 hr without food. The serum insulin response measured before, 1/2, and 4 hr after a meal showed insulin levels of sucrose-fed rats to be higher than comparable levels of rats fed starch at all three times. An intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test measuring serum glucose before, 1/2, 2, and 2 hr after a glucose injection revealed glucose levels of rats fed sucrose to be higher than levels of rats fed starch. When insulin was added to the injection medium, serum glucose of rats fed sucrose remained higher than comparable levels of rats fed starch indicating insulin insensitivity. Meal feeding generally resulted in higher insulin and triglyceride levels than in rats fed ad libitum but had little effect on glucose levels. These results are clear evidence that sucrose feeding has undesirable effects on glucose tolerance.", "contents": "Insulin and glucose responses in rats fed sucrose or starch. Rats fed 54% sucrose for 11 to 13 weeks ad libitum or 5 weeks ad libitum followed by 6 to 8 weeks of meal feeding had significantly higher serum insulin, glucose, and triglyceride levels than rats fed comparable amounts of starch after 12 to 14 hr without food. The serum insulin response measured before, 1/2, and 4 hr after a meal showed insulin levels of sucrose-fed rats to be higher than comparable levels of rats fed starch at all three times. An intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test measuring serum glucose before, 1/2, 2, and 2 hr after a glucose injection revealed glucose levels of rats fed sucrose to be higher than levels of rats fed starch. When insulin was added to the injection medium, serum glucose of rats fed sucrose remained higher than comparable levels of rats fed starch indicating insulin insensitivity. Meal feeding generally resulted in higher insulin and triglyceride levels than in rats fed ad libitum but had little effect on glucose levels. These results are clear evidence that sucrose feeding has undesirable effects on glucose tolerance.", "PMID": 433810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1784", "title": "Zinc retention and losses of zinc in sweat by preadolescent girls.", "content": "Preadolescent girls, ages 7 to 9 years, were fed levels of zinc ranging from 5.61 to 14.61 mg/day during an 18-day metabolic study. All other nutrients were provided at or above Recommended Dietary Allowance levels. The sweat loss of zinc was measured using an arm-bag method and whole body zinc loss was calculated from whole body nitrogen and arm loss of nitrogen and zinc. Fecal zinc reflected dietary zinc, but urinary zinc remained relatively stable. The mean daily loss of zinc through sweat was calculated to be 1.43 mg. Zinc retentions were not significantly different (P greater than 0.05) though the retention increased generally with intake of zinc. A comparison of these data with previously reported studies indicated that the absorption of zinc was usually in the range of 20 to 30%. Based on sweat losses reported by others and found in this study and on usual absorption of zinc, it appears that diets should provide a minimum of 7 mg of zinc daily for growing children.", "contents": "Zinc retention and losses of zinc in sweat by preadolescent girls. Preadolescent girls, ages 7 to 9 years, were fed levels of zinc ranging from 5.61 to 14.61 mg/day during an 18-day metabolic study. All other nutrients were provided at or above Recommended Dietary Allowance levels. The sweat loss of zinc was measured using an arm-bag method and whole body zinc loss was calculated from whole body nitrogen and arm loss of nitrogen and zinc. Fecal zinc reflected dietary zinc, but urinary zinc remained relatively stable. The mean daily loss of zinc through sweat was calculated to be 1.43 mg. Zinc retentions were not significantly different (P greater than 0.05) though the retention increased generally with intake of zinc. A comparison of these data with previously reported studies indicated that the absorption of zinc was usually in the range of 20 to 30%. Based on sweat losses reported by others and found in this study and on usual absorption of zinc, it appears that diets should provide a minimum of 7 mg of zinc daily for growing children.", "PMID": 433811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1785", "title": "Food iron absorption in human subjects. V. Effects of the major dietary constituents of semisynthetic meal.", "content": "Studies were performed in adult volunteer subjects to determine the effect on nonheme iron absorption of protein, carbohydrate, and fat. These constituents were administered as egg albumin, dextrimaltose, and corn oil, respectively, in a semisynthetic meal containing 700 kcal and 4.1 mg iron. Because any one of these ingredients are unpalatable when administered alone, their effect was determined by serially deleting or doubling their content in the basal semisynthetic meal. With both approaches, carbohydrate and fat had little influence whereas egg albumin had a significant inhibitory effect on the absorption of nonheme iron.", "contents": "Food iron absorption in human subjects. V. Effects of the major dietary constituents of semisynthetic meal. Studies were performed in adult volunteer subjects to determine the effect on nonheme iron absorption of protein, carbohydrate, and fat. These constituents were administered as egg albumin, dextrimaltose, and corn oil, respectively, in a semisynthetic meal containing 700 kcal and 4.1 mg iron. Because any one of these ingredients are unpalatable when administered alone, their effect was determined by serially deleting or doubling their content in the basal semisynthetic meal. With both approaches, carbohydrate and fat had little influence whereas egg albumin had a significant inhibitory effect on the absorption of nonheme iron.", "PMID": 433812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1786", "title": "Wine versus ethanol in human nutrition. II. Fluid, sodium, and potassium balance.", "content": "Six healthy males were studied under metabolic unit conditions to determine the effects of wine vs ethanol on the absorption of various elements. Fluid, sodium, and potassium data are reported here. The following test beverages in the amount of 1 liter/day were administered in random order to each of the subjects during four 18-day experimental periods: Zinfandel wine (9.3% w/v alcohol); dealcoholized Zinfandel wine; pure ethanol (9.3% w/v aqueous alcohol solution); and deionized water. A strictly controlled isocaloric formula diet was given with the test beverage in four equal feedings over a 12-hr period. No diuretic effect of alcohol was detected in any of the subjects. Urinary sodium was significantly less during the dealcoholized wine period than during the ethanol and water periods. Urinary potassium was significantly greater during ethanol administration as compared with the other test beverages. Fecal and serum sodium and potassium were essentially unchanged throughout the study.", "contents": "Wine versus ethanol in human nutrition. II. Fluid, sodium, and potassium balance. Six healthy males were studied under metabolic unit conditions to determine the effects of wine vs ethanol on the absorption of various elements. Fluid, sodium, and potassium data are reported here. The following test beverages in the amount of 1 liter/day were administered in random order to each of the subjects during four 18-day experimental periods: Zinfandel wine (9.3% w/v alcohol); dealcoholized Zinfandel wine; pure ethanol (9.3% w/v aqueous alcohol solution); and deionized water. A strictly controlled isocaloric formula diet was given with the test beverage in four equal feedings over a 12-hr period. No diuretic effect of alcohol was detected in any of the subjects. Urinary sodium was significantly less during the dealcoholized wine period than during the ethanol and water periods. Urinary potassium was significantly greater during ethanol administration as compared with the other test beverages. Fecal and serum sodium and potassium were essentially unchanged throughout the study.", "PMID": 433813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1787", "title": "Wine versus ethanol in human nutrition. III. Calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium balance.", "content": "A metabolic balance study was performed to determine the effects of wine vs ethanol on absorption of various elements. Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium data are reported here. The study was divided into four 18-day experimental periods during which six healthy males were given, in random order, 1 liter/day of one of the following test beverages: Zinfandel wine (9.3% w/v alcohol); delacholized Zinfandel wine; pure ethanol (9.3% w/v aqueous solution); or deionized water. The test beverages were administered along with a controlled isocaloric diet in four equal feedings over a 12-hr period. Each man served as his own control. Urinary calcium and magnesium did not change appreciably during the course of the study. Urinary phosphorous, however, was significantly greater during wine and ethanol administration, suggesting that alcohol may affect the metabolism or renal tubular reabsorption of this element. Despite considerable individual variation, the data showed that wine and dealcoholized wine enhanced absorption of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This apparently was due to an effect of one or more of the many congeners present in wine and absent in a calorically equivalent amount of pure ethanol. The natural acidity of wine also may have played a role in creating a more favorable intraluminal environment for absorption. There was no significant difference between experimental periods in serum calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.", "contents": "Wine versus ethanol in human nutrition. III. Calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium balance. A metabolic balance study was performed to determine the effects of wine vs ethanol on absorption of various elements. Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium data are reported here. The study was divided into four 18-day experimental periods during which six healthy males were given, in random order, 1 liter/day of one of the following test beverages: Zinfandel wine (9.3% w/v alcohol); delacholized Zinfandel wine; pure ethanol (9.3% w/v aqueous solution); or deionized water. The test beverages were administered along with a controlled isocaloric diet in four equal feedings over a 12-hr period. Each man served as his own control. Urinary calcium and magnesium did not change appreciably during the course of the study. Urinary phosphorous, however, was significantly greater during wine and ethanol administration, suggesting that alcohol may affect the metabolism or renal tubular reabsorption of this element. Despite considerable individual variation, the data showed that wine and dealcoholized wine enhanced absorption of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This apparently was due to an effect of one or more of the many congeners present in wine and absent in a calorically equivalent amount of pure ethanol. The natural acidity of wine also may have played a role in creating a more favorable intraluminal environment for absorption. There was no significant difference between experimental periods in serum calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.", "PMID": 433814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1788", "title": "Determination of urinary 4-pyridoxic acid using high performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "A high performance liquid chromatographic method is presented for the determination of the vitamin B6 metabolite, 4-pyridoxic acid, in urine. Urine samples are treated with trichloroacetic acid to precipitate protein. An aliquot of the supernatant is chromatographed using 0.033 M phosphate buffer containing 5% (v/v) methanol (pH 2.2), a fluorometric detector and a commercial reverse phase octadecylsilica column. The high precision of the method and the absence of interfering compounds have been demonstrated. This method provides a rapid, sensitive, and quantitative technique for the measurement of urinary 4-pyridoxic acid for use in metabolic and nutritional studies.", "contents": "Determination of urinary 4-pyridoxic acid using high performance liquid chromatography. A high performance liquid chromatographic method is presented for the determination of the vitamin B6 metabolite, 4-pyridoxic acid, in urine. Urine samples are treated with trichloroacetic acid to precipitate protein. An aliquot of the supernatant is chromatographed using 0.033 M phosphate buffer containing 5% (v/v) methanol (pH 2.2), a fluorometric detector and a commercial reverse phase octadecylsilica column. The high precision of the method and the absence of interfering compounds have been demonstrated. This method provides a rapid, sensitive, and quantitative technique for the measurement of urinary 4-pyridoxic acid for use in metabolic and nutritional studies.", "PMID": 433815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1789", "title": "The food and nutrient intakes of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico.", "content": "A nutritional survey of 372 semiacculturated Tarahumara Indians in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains of Mexico was carried out to determine the composition of their diet and its nutritional adequacy. Dietary histories from 174 adults and 198 children were obtained by interviews and field observations during 1973 and 1974. The histories for the children were calculated in part from the menus of six boarding church schools. Nutrient calculations of daily intake were based upon food composition tables and some actual analyses of Tarahumara foods. The protein intake was ample, at 87 g, and generously met the FAO/WHO recommendations for daily intake of essential amino acids. Fat contributed only 12% of total calories, its composition being 2% saturated and 5% polyunsaturated with a P/S ratio of 2. The mean dietary cholesterol intake was very low, less than 100 mg/day, and the plant sterol intake was high, over 400 mg/day. Carbohydrate comprised 75 to 80% of total calories, mostly from starch. Only 6% of total calories were derived from simple sugars. The crude fiber intake was high, 18 to 21 g/day. Salt consumption was moderately low, 5 to 8 g/day. The daily intakes of calcium, iron, vitamin A, ascorbic acid, thiamin niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6 exceeded or approximated the FAO/WHO recommendations. Thus, the simple diet of the Tarahumara Indians, composed primarily of beans and corn, provided a high intake of complex carbohydrate and was low in fat and cholesterol. Their diet was found to be generally of high nutritional quality and would, by all criteria, be considered antiatherogenic.", "contents": "The food and nutrient intakes of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico. A nutritional survey of 372 semiacculturated Tarahumara Indians in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains of Mexico was carried out to determine the composition of their diet and its nutritional adequacy. Dietary histories from 174 adults and 198 children were obtained by interviews and field observations during 1973 and 1974. The histories for the children were calculated in part from the menus of six boarding church schools. Nutrient calculations of daily intake were based upon food composition tables and some actual analyses of Tarahumara foods. The protein intake was ample, at 87 g, and generously met the FAO/WHO recommendations for daily intake of essential amino acids. Fat contributed only 12% of total calories, its composition being 2% saturated and 5% polyunsaturated with a P/S ratio of 2. The mean dietary cholesterol intake was very low, less than 100 mg/day, and the plant sterol intake was high, over 400 mg/day. Carbohydrate comprised 75 to 80% of total calories, mostly from starch. Only 6% of total calories were derived from simple sugars. The crude fiber intake was high, 18 to 21 g/day. Salt consumption was moderately low, 5 to 8 g/day. The daily intakes of calcium, iron, vitamin A, ascorbic acid, thiamin niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6 exceeded or approximated the FAO/WHO recommendations. Thus, the simple diet of the Tarahumara Indians, composed primarily of beans and corn, provided a high intake of complex carbohydrate and was low in fat and cholesterol. Their diet was found to be generally of high nutritional quality and would, by all criteria, be considered antiatherogenic.", "PMID": 433816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1790", "title": "The vitamin B6 requirement in oral contraceptive users. I. Assessment by pyridoxal level and transferase activity in erythrocytes.", "content": "Eight college-age women using estrogen-containing oral contraceptives (OC) were fed a low vitamin B6 diet (0.36 mg/day) for 42 days. During the first 10 days (adjustment period) the diet was supplemented with 1.7 mg pyridoxine hydrochloride bringing the total intake to 2.06 mg/day. Following depletion, repletion was done in three consecutive steps: intakes of 0.96, 1.56, and 5.06 mg were consumed for 8, 9, and 7 days, respectively. Continuous 24-hr urine collections were made throughout the study and fasting blood samples were drawn periodically. Vitamin B6 nutriture was assessed by erythrocyte pyridoxal level, erythrocyte alanine aminotransferase and erythrocyte aspartic aminotransferase activity; and stimulation of these enzyme systems with pyridoxal phosphate. Results were compared with data obtained from non-OC users who consumed a similar diet. The data obtained suggest that 0.96 mg vitamin B6 was not adequate to meet the needs of OC users. Predepletion levels had been reached in almost all subjects at an intake of 1.5 mg/day. Assessed by the parameters studied, an intake between 1.5 and 5.0 mg/day of vitamin B6 was adequate to meet the needs of OC users; this compares with 1.5 mg/day previously suggested for the nonuser.", "contents": "The vitamin B6 requirement in oral contraceptive users. I. Assessment by pyridoxal level and transferase activity in erythrocytes. Eight college-age women using estrogen-containing oral contraceptives (OC) were fed a low vitamin B6 diet (0.36 mg/day) for 42 days. During the first 10 days (adjustment period) the diet was supplemented with 1.7 mg pyridoxine hydrochloride bringing the total intake to 2.06 mg/day. Following depletion, repletion was done in three consecutive steps: intakes of 0.96, 1.56, and 5.06 mg were consumed for 8, 9, and 7 days, respectively. Continuous 24-hr urine collections were made throughout the study and fasting blood samples were drawn periodically. Vitamin B6 nutriture was assessed by erythrocyte pyridoxal level, erythrocyte alanine aminotransferase and erythrocyte aspartic aminotransferase activity; and stimulation of these enzyme systems with pyridoxal phosphate. Results were compared with data obtained from non-OC users who consumed a similar diet. The data obtained suggest that 0.96 mg vitamin B6 was not adequate to meet the needs of OC users. Predepletion levels had been reached in almost all subjects at an intake of 1.5 mg/day. Assessed by the parameters studied, an intake between 1.5 and 5.0 mg/day of vitamin B6 was adequate to meet the needs of OC users; this compares with 1.5 mg/day previously suggested for the nonuser.", "PMID": 433818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1791", "title": "Effect of dietary fructose on triglyceride transport and glucoregulatory hormones in hypertriglyceridemic men.", "content": "Effects of dietary fructose on triglyceride metabolism and on basal levels and meal responses of glucose, insulin, and glucagon were studied in six hypertriglyceridemic men, two of whom were also diabetic. Constant composition, weight-maintaining formula diets were used with substitution of fructose for 20% of the carbohydrate calories in both fat-containing (45% carbohydrate) and fat-free (85% carbohydrate) periods; each of the four dietary periods was at least 2 weeks long in every subject. No effect of fructose on fasting levels of triglycerides could be seen in any of the diets. No alterations of triglyceride transport occurred with fructose substitution in the fat-containing diets, but significant reductions of triglyceride transport rates were seen with fructose substitution in the 85% carbohydrate diets using both the heparin infusion lipolytic rate method and the 3H-glycerol methods of assessment of tryglyceride turnover (- 16 and - 21%, respectively). Dietary fructose induced no significant changes in either basal levels or responses during a \"formula tolerance test\" of glucose, insulin, or glucagon. Thus, dietary fructose given for several weeks does not appear to cause further elevations of plasma triglyceride levels in hypertriglyceridemic men.", "contents": "Effect of dietary fructose on triglyceride transport and glucoregulatory hormones in hypertriglyceridemic men. Effects of dietary fructose on triglyceride metabolism and on basal levels and meal responses of glucose, insulin, and glucagon were studied in six hypertriglyceridemic men, two of whom were also diabetic. Constant composition, weight-maintaining formula diets were used with substitution of fructose for 20% of the carbohydrate calories in both fat-containing (45% carbohydrate) and fat-free (85% carbohydrate) periods; each of the four dietary periods was at least 2 weeks long in every subject. No effect of fructose on fasting levels of triglycerides could be seen in any of the diets. No alterations of triglyceride transport occurred with fructose substitution in the fat-containing diets, but significant reductions of triglyceride transport rates were seen with fructose substitution in the 85% carbohydrate diets using both the heparin infusion lipolytic rate method and the 3H-glycerol methods of assessment of tryglyceride turnover (- 16 and - 21%, respectively). Dietary fructose induced no significant changes in either basal levels or responses during a \"formula tolerance test\" of glucose, insulin, or glucagon. Thus, dietary fructose given for several weeks does not appear to cause further elevations of plasma triglyceride levels in hypertriglyceridemic men.", "PMID": 433820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1792", "title": "Effect of dietary egg on human serum cholesterol and triglycerides.", "content": "One hundred sixteen male volunteers between the ages of 32 and 62 years (mean age 46) consumed two whole fresh eggs daily in their customary diets for 3 months and also eliminated eggs for 3 months before or after eating eggs. The men had had normal-range serum cholesterol and triglycerides for the past 7 years. Four-day food records kept by them in each experimental period were assessed for nutrient intake. A Latin square design allowed analyses for season and sequential effects on serum lipids. The serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels at the end of 6 months were compared with their initial levels on customary free choice diets as well as their levels after the first 3 months of study. No significant increase in mean serum cholesterol was found nor was there a significant association of dietary cholesterol intake with either serum cholesterol or triglyceride.", "contents": "Effect of dietary egg on human serum cholesterol and triglycerides. One hundred sixteen male volunteers between the ages of 32 and 62 years (mean age 46) consumed two whole fresh eggs daily in their customary diets for 3 months and also eliminated eggs for 3 months before or after eating eggs. The men had had normal-range serum cholesterol and triglycerides for the past 7 years. Four-day food records kept by them in each experimental period were assessed for nutrient intake. A Latin square design allowed analyses for season and sequential effects on serum lipids. The serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels at the end of 6 months were compared with their initial levels on customary free choice diets as well as their levels after the first 3 months of study. No significant increase in mean serum cholesterol was found nor was there a significant association of dietary cholesterol intake with either serum cholesterol or triglyceride.", "PMID": 433821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1793", "title": "Lactation and pregnancy in Iran. III. Hormonal factors.", "content": "Lactation failure is common in urban areas of industrially developing countries, but little is known about its epidemiology and causality. The study reported here was undertaken to investigate the serum levels of some hormones other than prolactin that have been shown in animal studies to play a role in lactation, and to examine their relationship to adequacy of lactation and to nutritional and socioeconomic status in urban Iranian women. Serum levels of placental lactogen, growth hormone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones were measured under standard conditions in two groups of pregnant women from low and low middle socioeconomic areas of Teheran, 1 or 2 weeks before parturition and the latter three hormones again in the 3rd month postpartum. Significant differences were found in the biochemical parameters between socioeconomic groups. Hemoglobin and serum albumin values were lower and all the globulin fractions (except alpha 2 globulin during pregnancy), growth hormone and cortisol were higher in the low than the middle socioeconomic subjects, both during pregnancy and postpartum. The discrepancies between the socioeconomic groups were greater postpartum. Growth hormone level was significantly lower in subjects with adequate lactation than inadequate or ceased, and cortisol values show the same trend. No correlations were found between the measured parameters of nutritional status nor free thyroxine values and lactation adequacy. In view of the role of growth hormone and cortisol in stress and malnutrition and some evidence of a reciprocal relationship between growth hormone and prolactin, these hormones may be a link in the chain between the urban environment, malnutrition and lactation failure.", "contents": "Lactation and pregnancy in Iran. III. Hormonal factors. Lactation failure is common in urban areas of industrially developing countries, but little is known about its epidemiology and causality. The study reported here was undertaken to investigate the serum levels of some hormones other than prolactin that have been shown in animal studies to play a role in lactation, and to examine their relationship to adequacy of lactation and to nutritional and socioeconomic status in urban Iranian women. Serum levels of placental lactogen, growth hormone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones were measured under standard conditions in two groups of pregnant women from low and low middle socioeconomic areas of Teheran, 1 or 2 weeks before parturition and the latter three hormones again in the 3rd month postpartum. Significant differences were found in the biochemical parameters between socioeconomic groups. Hemoglobin and serum albumin values were lower and all the globulin fractions (except alpha 2 globulin during pregnancy), growth hormone and cortisol were higher in the low than the middle socioeconomic subjects, both during pregnancy and postpartum. The discrepancies between the socioeconomic groups were greater postpartum. Growth hormone level was significantly lower in subjects with adequate lactation than inadequate or ceased, and cortisol values show the same trend. No correlations were found between the measured parameters of nutritional status nor free thyroxine values and lactation adequacy. In view of the role of growth hormone and cortisol in stress and malnutrition and some evidence of a reciprocal relationship between growth hormone and prolactin, these hormones may be a link in the chain between the urban environment, malnutrition and lactation failure.", "PMID": 433822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1794", "title": "Myocardial tissue concentrations of magnesium and potassium in men dying suddenly from ischemic heart disease.", "content": "Optimum tissue levels of magnesium and potassium ions are essential to the structure and function of the myocardium. We hypothesized that an inapparent deficiency of one or both of these elements might contribute to sudden cardiac death in a susceptible person, and in this study investigated levels of these elements in the myocardium of men experiencing sudden death to determine if there was such an association. Subjects dying suddenly with ischemic heart disease had significantly lower levels of myocardial tissue magnesium and potassium than the controls (men dying of acute trauma). The four lowest potassium values were obtained for the only men in the group with a history of angina (P less than 0.0005). Three of the men with angina also had the lowest tissue magnesium levels (P less than 0.005). The intriguing finding gives support to the hypothesis.", "contents": "Myocardial tissue concentrations of magnesium and potassium in men dying suddenly from ischemic heart disease. Optimum tissue levels of magnesium and potassium ions are essential to the structure and function of the myocardium. We hypothesized that an inapparent deficiency of one or both of these elements might contribute to sudden cardiac death in a susceptible person, and in this study investigated levels of these elements in the myocardium of men experiencing sudden death to determine if there was such an association. Subjects dying suddenly with ischemic heart disease had significantly lower levels of myocardial tissue magnesium and potassium than the controls (men dying of acute trauma). The four lowest potassium values were obtained for the only men in the group with a history of angina (P less than 0.0005). Three of the men with angina also had the lowest tissue magnesium levels (P less than 0.005). The intriguing finding gives support to the hypothesis.", "PMID": 433823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1795", "title": "Kinetics of intravenously administered 15N-L-alanine in the evaluation of protein turnover.", "content": "After a pulse injection of 15N-L-alanine to a healthy male subject, the distribution of 15N in the various components of blood and urine were determined as function of time. The rapid appearance of the isotope both in the urinary urea and ammonia and in the plasma amide and urea suggests that transamination (and not deamination) may be the key step in the interaction. After 30 to 60 min postinjection, the tracer dynamics represents the overall metabolic pool characteristics and does not reflect the metabolism of alanine only. The nitrogen of alanine is used effectively in the synthesis of body protein.", "contents": "Kinetics of intravenously administered 15N-L-alanine in the evaluation of protein turnover. After a pulse injection of 15N-L-alanine to a healthy male subject, the distribution of 15N in the various components of blood and urine were determined as function of time. The rapid appearance of the isotope both in the urinary urea and ammonia and in the plasma amide and urea suggests that transamination (and not deamination) may be the key step in the interaction. After 30 to 60 min postinjection, the tracer dynamics represents the overall metabolic pool characteristics and does not reflect the metabolism of alanine only. The nitrogen of alanine is used effectively in the synthesis of body protein.", "PMID": 433824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1796", "title": "Body composition during nutritional repletion of severely undernourished men.", "content": "Body composition was studied in severely undernourished adult male inhabitants of a rural area of Colombia to evaluate the extent and the time course of the changes occurring upon nutritional repletion. During a 45-day basal period on a low (26g/day) protein diet containing adequate calories, body fat depots increased significantly (mean +/- SD = +3.02 +/- 2.9 kg), and there was a significant decrease in cell hydration from 81.8 to 76.4% (-5.4 +/- 9.1%). Upon protein repletion (100 g/day), cell hydration decreased significantly to 71.4%, while body cell mass increased markedly (9.0 +/- 1.1 kg). During protein repletion, muscle cell mass increased significantly (+5.5 +/- 0.6 kg) and rapidly, while the increase in nonmuscle cells (+3.5 +/- 3.8 kg) and specifically in red cell mass lagged behind. With repletion, the changes in the absolute values for plasma volume (+0.4 +/- 0.13 liters) were significant, but those in extracellular fluid volume (-0.7 +/- 1.9 liters) were not. Thus, the major compositional changes observed occurred in the body fat and the body cell mass components; these occurred independently of each other.", "contents": "Body composition during nutritional repletion of severely undernourished men. Body composition was studied in severely undernourished adult male inhabitants of a rural area of Colombia to evaluate the extent and the time course of the changes occurring upon nutritional repletion. During a 45-day basal period on a low (26g/day) protein diet containing adequate calories, body fat depots increased significantly (mean +/- SD = +3.02 +/- 2.9 kg), and there was a significant decrease in cell hydration from 81.8 to 76.4% (-5.4 +/- 9.1%). Upon protein repletion (100 g/day), cell hydration decreased significantly to 71.4%, while body cell mass increased markedly (9.0 +/- 1.1 kg). During protein repletion, muscle cell mass increased significantly (+5.5 +/- 0.6 kg) and rapidly, while the increase in nonmuscle cells (+3.5 +/- 3.8 kg) and specifically in red cell mass lagged behind. With repletion, the changes in the absolute values for plasma volume (+0.4 +/- 0.13 liters) were significant, but those in extracellular fluid volume (-0.7 +/- 1.9 liters) were not. Thus, the major compositional changes observed occurred in the body fat and the body cell mass components; these occurred independently of each other.", "PMID": 433825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1797", "title": "Electrolyte output, blood pressure, and family history of hypertension.", "content": "Adult, normotensive subjects were divided into two groups on the basis of whether their first degree relatives were diagnosed as being hypertensive. Urine samples were collected over a 24-hr period for 3 days and analyzed for electrolyte excretion; the rate of electrolyte excretion was also measured separately during the overnight period. Significant correlations were shown between blood pressure and sodium and chloride excretion, both the 24-hr total and the overnight rate; Na/K ratio; weight; and body mass index for those subjects with a positive family history of hypertension. In subjects with no family history of hypertension there were no significant correlations between those parameters and blood pressure. The rate of urinary excretion of sodium overnight may provide a means for further studies on populations to determine the interrelationship between sodium excretion, other parameters, blood pressure, and family history of hypertension.", "contents": "Electrolyte output, blood pressure, and family history of hypertension. Adult, normotensive subjects were divided into two groups on the basis of whether their first degree relatives were diagnosed as being hypertensive. Urine samples were collected over a 24-hr period for 3 days and analyzed for electrolyte excretion; the rate of electrolyte excretion was also measured separately during the overnight period. Significant correlations were shown between blood pressure and sodium and chloride excretion, both the 24-hr total and the overnight rate; Na/K ratio; weight; and body mass index for those subjects with a positive family history of hypertension. In subjects with no family history of hypertension there were no significant correlations between those parameters and blood pressure. The rate of urinary excretion of sodium overnight may provide a means for further studies on populations to determine the interrelationship between sodium excretion, other parameters, blood pressure, and family history of hypertension.", "PMID": 433826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1798", "title": "Intravascular endothelial proliferations in children.", "content": "Six children who had benign cutaneous vascular lesions characterized by papillary or solid proliferation of the endothelial cells were seen in a 16-year period. In five of them, the lesions had the histologic features of the entity originally described by Masson and recently reported by Clearkin and Enzinger as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia. In one of the five, the lesion appeared in the pure form within large vascular spaces, whereas in the remaining four it appeared as a very limited focal change in a hematoma. The authors agree with others that this lesion represents a peculiar variant of an organizing thrombus. The histologic features of the lesion in the sixth patient were compatible with the so-called \"intravenous atypical vascular proliferation,\" another pseudomalignant vascular disorder recently described by Rosai and Akerman.", "contents": "Intravascular endothelial proliferations in children. Six children who had benign cutaneous vascular lesions characterized by papillary or solid proliferation of the endothelial cells were seen in a 16-year period. In five of them, the lesions had the histologic features of the entity originally described by Masson and recently reported by Clearkin and Enzinger as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia. In one of the five, the lesion appeared in the pure form within large vascular spaces, whereas in the remaining four it appeared as a very limited focal change in a hematoma. The authors agree with others that this lesion represents a peculiar variant of an organizing thrombus. The histologic features of the lesion in the sixth patient were compatible with the so-called \"intravenous atypical vascular proliferation,\" another pseudomalignant vascular disorder recently described by Rosai and Akerman.", "PMID": 433827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1799", "title": "Histologic study of ovaries from young women with endometrial adenocarcinoma.", "content": "A histologic study of 15 ovaries from patients in whom endometrial adenocarcinoma developed before the age of 40 years was performed. These ovaries were randomized with control groups of 21 age-matched normal ovaries and 25 ovaries from patients who had Stein-Leventhal syndrome. The study was done in an attempt to determine whether the ovaries from these young patients showed any histologic feature that would indicate abnormal ovarian function resulting in unopposed estrogenic stimulation of the endometrium. Histologic features assessed included type and size of cysts, presence and number of primary follicles, corpora lutea, corpora albicantia, and presence of stromal luteinization and sclerosis. Analysis of the results indicated that from a histologic point of view ovaries of patients less than 40 years old who have endometrial adenocarcinoma are more similar to normal ovaries than to polycystic ovaries. Only 11.1% of ovaries of the study group had features suggestive of polycystic ovarian disease.", "contents": "Histologic study of ovaries from young women with endometrial adenocarcinoma. A histologic study of 15 ovaries from patients in whom endometrial adenocarcinoma developed before the age of 40 years was performed. These ovaries were randomized with control groups of 21 age-matched normal ovaries and 25 ovaries from patients who had Stein-Leventhal syndrome. The study was done in an attempt to determine whether the ovaries from these young patients showed any histologic feature that would indicate abnormal ovarian function resulting in unopposed estrogenic stimulation of the endometrium. Histologic features assessed included type and size of cysts, presence and number of primary follicles, corpora lutea, corpora albicantia, and presence of stromal luteinization and sclerosis. Analysis of the results indicated that from a histologic point of view ovaries of patients less than 40 years old who have endometrial adenocarcinoma are more similar to normal ovaries than to polycystic ovaries. Only 11.1% of ovaries of the study group had features suggestive of polycystic ovarian disease.", "PMID": 433828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1800", "title": "A computerized word-processing and data system for histology in a private medical laboratory.", "content": "This report describes the use of a word-processing micro-computer, the Lanier Text Editor, for preparation of surgical tissue reports. Gross and microscopic description formats are stored on floppy disks, which may easily be completed and edited on a cathode-ray tube (CRT) for rapid computerized printing. Also described is the use of a PDP 8/E mini-computer for entry, storage, and manipulation of historic, demographic and diagnostic data, printing of numeric and alphabetic listings, cross-indexing of cases by diagnosis, and the accumulation of data for direct patient or physician billing.", "contents": "A computerized word-processing and data system for histology in a private medical laboratory. This report describes the use of a word-processing micro-computer, the Lanier Text Editor, for preparation of surgical tissue reports. Gross and microscopic description formats are stored on floppy disks, which may easily be completed and edited on a cathode-ray tube (CRT) for rapid computerized printing. Also described is the use of a PDP 8/E mini-computer for entry, storage, and manipulation of historic, demographic and diagnostic data, printing of numeric and alphabetic listings, cross-indexing of cases by diagnosis, and the accumulation of data for direct patient or physician billing.", "PMID": 433829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1801", "title": "Effects of time, platelet concentration, and sex on the human platelet aggregation response.", "content": "The platelet aggregation responses induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and collagen were characterized by parameters defining rate and extent of reaction. Values were compared on the basis of platelet concentration, time elapsed between sample collection and test performance, and sex of donors. Rate and extent of aggregation varied as a function of platelet concentration. Maximal responses were obtained for platelet concentrations greater than 100,000/microliter. Results from samples processed after 90 min of incubation at room temperature were consistently and significantly lower than those obtained from samples processed immediately. ADP-induced aggregation responses elicited by samples from male and female normal donors differed significantly. This indicates that comparisons between normal and patient results should be made with sex-matched individuals to avoid erroneous interpretations.", "contents": "Effects of time, platelet concentration, and sex on the human platelet aggregation response. The platelet aggregation responses induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and collagen were characterized by parameters defining rate and extent of reaction. Values were compared on the basis of platelet concentration, time elapsed between sample collection and test performance, and sex of donors. Rate and extent of aggregation varied as a function of platelet concentration. Maximal responses were obtained for platelet concentrations greater than 100,000/microliter. Results from samples processed after 90 min of incubation at room temperature were consistently and significantly lower than those obtained from samples processed immediately. ADP-induced aggregation responses elicited by samples from male and female normal donors differed significantly. This indicates that comparisons between normal and patient results should be made with sex-matched individuals to avoid erroneous interpretations.", "PMID": 433830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1802", "title": "Functional studies of hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis).", "content": "Reports proposing that the cell or origin of \"hairy cell\" leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis) is a B lymphocyte have been based primarily on the presence of surface immunoglobulin markers, frequently in \"cap\" form. Most of the immunoglobulin markers in this series of patients with hairy cell leukemia were multiclass, but were present in cap form under conditions not usually inducing cap formation in normal or leukemic human lymphocytes. In five cases the authors were able to remove these surface immunoglobulins by trypsinization or overnight incubation in serum-free tissue-culture medium. There was no evidence of synthesis of surface immunoglobulins in these cases following incubation in serum-free tissue-culture medium; however, surface immunoglobulins could again be detected after subsequent reintroduction of these hairy cells into the patients' own sera. The peculiar cap formation could not be prevented with sodium azide, a standard inhibitor of cap formation. Phagocytized latex particles and neutral red dye produced similar caplike structures. These findings suggest that hairy cells readily adsorb and pinocytose circulating immunoglobulins, but do not synthesize them.", "contents": "Functional studies of hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis). Reports proposing that the cell or origin of \"hairy cell\" leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis) is a B lymphocyte have been based primarily on the presence of surface immunoglobulin markers, frequently in \"cap\" form. Most of the immunoglobulin markers in this series of patients with hairy cell leukemia were multiclass, but were present in cap form under conditions not usually inducing cap formation in normal or leukemic human lymphocytes. In five cases the authors were able to remove these surface immunoglobulins by trypsinization or overnight incubation in serum-free tissue-culture medium. There was no evidence of synthesis of surface immunoglobulins in these cases following incubation in serum-free tissue-culture medium; however, surface immunoglobulins could again be detected after subsequent reintroduction of these hairy cells into the patients' own sera. The peculiar cap formation could not be prevented with sodium azide, a standard inhibitor of cap formation. Phagocytized latex particles and neutral red dye produced similar caplike structures. These findings suggest that hairy cells readily adsorb and pinocytose circulating immunoglobulins, but do not synthesize them.", "PMID": 433832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1803", "title": "Gm and Km allotypes in disputed parentage.", "content": "Immunoglobulin allotyping in 925 cases of disputed paternity provided evidence of exclusion for 70 alleged fathers. Combining results from erythrocytic antigen, enzyme, and serum protein tests, 230 men were proven to be falsely accused; in 15 cases the immunoglobulin allotype provided the only evidence for exclusion, in 67 no exclusion would have been identified if testing had been limited to ABO, Rh, and MNSs. Various cases in this study illustrate the importance of using an extensive battery of immunoglobulin reagents in order maximally to exclude falsely accused men, and to identify infrequent haplotypes, which might erroneously be interpreted as indirect exclusions or may indicate a high likelihood of paternity. The problems of Gm typing of very young children are described. When child is less than 6 months of age, direct exclusions may be missed by the Gm allotypes; indirect exclusions are valid only when the phenotype differs from that of the mother. Km allotypes are not age-dependent.", "contents": "Gm and Km allotypes in disputed parentage. Immunoglobulin allotyping in 925 cases of disputed paternity provided evidence of exclusion for 70 alleged fathers. Combining results from erythrocytic antigen, enzyme, and serum protein tests, 230 men were proven to be falsely accused; in 15 cases the immunoglobulin allotype provided the only evidence for exclusion, in 67 no exclusion would have been identified if testing had been limited to ABO, Rh, and MNSs. Various cases in this study illustrate the importance of using an extensive battery of immunoglobulin reagents in order maximally to exclude falsely accused men, and to identify infrequent haplotypes, which might erroneously be interpreted as indirect exclusions or may indicate a high likelihood of paternity. The problems of Gm typing of very young children are described. When child is less than 6 months of age, direct exclusions may be missed by the Gm allotypes; indirect exclusions are valid only when the phenotype differs from that of the mother. Km allotypes are not age-dependent.", "PMID": 433833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1804", "title": "Quality assurance in the blood bank. Studies of technologist performance.", "content": "A series of experiments was conducted to assess the performance of technologists in the blood bank, with particular reference to precision and accuracy in the technical and mechanical aspects of routine work, including preparation of erythrocyte suspensions, pipetting, interpretation of hemagglutination, detection of mixed-field agglutination, detection of weak alloantibodies, and antibody titration and scoring. The authors conclude that use of semiquantitative technics contributes significantly to imprecision in blood bank work. A plea is made for expediture of increased effort in quality assurance programs directed toward the technical staff.", "contents": "Quality assurance in the blood bank. Studies of technologist performance. A series of experiments was conducted to assess the performance of technologists in the blood bank, with particular reference to precision and accuracy in the technical and mechanical aspects of routine work, including preparation of erythrocyte suspensions, pipetting, interpretation of hemagglutination, detection of mixed-field agglutination, detection of weak alloantibodies, and antibody titration and scoring. The authors conclude that use of semiquantitative technics contributes significantly to imprecision in blood bank work. A plea is made for expediture of increased effort in quality assurance programs directed toward the technical staff.", "PMID": 433834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1805", "title": "A radioimmunoassay for the measurement of human cardiac myosin light chains.", "content": "A double-antibody radioimmunoassay that specifically measures serum or urinary concentrations of human cardiac myosin light chains has been developed. The assay is both sensitive and specific for myosin light chain I. The antiserum used in the assay is capable of detecting 1--2 ng/ml of cardiac myosin light chain I and shows no cross-reaction to cardiac myosin, the heavy chains of myosin, actin, tropomyosin, or light chain II. Of 114 patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit, 227 measurements obtained from 84 patients without myocardial infarction revealed that the serum light chain level of 2.0 +/- 0.18 ng/ml was not significantly different from that of a control group (2.1 +/- 0.17 ng/ml, n = 12). In contrast, 89 measurements from 30 patients with myocardial infarction evidence clinically, electrocardiographically, and by creatine phosphokinase determinations were found to have an average serum light chain I concentration of 10.9 +/- 1.39 ng/ml (P less than 0.001). Thus, the radioimmunoassay for human cardiac myosin light chain I provides a sensitive and specific marker for myocardial damage.", "contents": "A radioimmunoassay for the measurement of human cardiac myosin light chains. A double-antibody radioimmunoassay that specifically measures serum or urinary concentrations of human cardiac myosin light chains has been developed. The assay is both sensitive and specific for myosin light chain I. The antiserum used in the assay is capable of detecting 1--2 ng/ml of cardiac myosin light chain I and shows no cross-reaction to cardiac myosin, the heavy chains of myosin, actin, tropomyosin, or light chain II. Of 114 patients admitted to the Coronary Care Unit, 227 measurements obtained from 84 patients without myocardial infarction revealed that the serum light chain level of 2.0 +/- 0.18 ng/ml was not significantly different from that of a control group (2.1 +/- 0.17 ng/ml, n = 12). In contrast, 89 measurements from 30 patients with myocardial infarction evidence clinically, electrocardiographically, and by creatine phosphokinase determinations were found to have an average serum light chain I concentration of 10.9 +/- 1.39 ng/ml (P less than 0.001). Thus, the radioimmunoassay for human cardiac myosin light chain I provides a sensitive and specific marker for myocardial damage.", "PMID": 433835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1806", "title": "Effects of bacterial contamination of reagent water on selected laboratory tests.", "content": "The effects of three widely spaced levels of bacterial contamination of reagent water on several chemistry, radioimmunoassay, and coagulation procedures were studied. These included determinations of lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, total protein, thyroid-stimulating hormone, digoxin, thrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and prothrombin time. Statistical analyses included calculations of means and coefficients of variation, and analysis of variance, as well as correlation coefficients for test results versus logarithm of bacterial contamination. Statistically and clinically significant differences occurred together only for an elevated level of creatine kinase.", "contents": "Effects of bacterial contamination of reagent water on selected laboratory tests. The effects of three widely spaced levels of bacterial contamination of reagent water on several chemistry, radioimmunoassay, and coagulation procedures were studied. These included determinations of lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, total protein, thyroid-stimulating hormone, digoxin, thrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and prothrombin time. Statistical analyses included calculations of means and coefficients of variation, and analysis of variance, as well as correlation coefficients for test results versus logarithm of bacterial contamination. Statistically and clinically significant differences occurred together only for an elevated level of creatine kinase.", "PMID": 433836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1807", "title": "The platelet function profile. A new format for recording platelet function tests.", "content": "A platelet function profile that provides a concise record of platelet function tests has been developed. This format can be easily modified to meet local requirements or to include hematologic tests unique to each laboratory.", "contents": "The platelet function profile. A new format for recording platelet function tests. A platelet function profile that provides a concise record of platelet function tests has been developed. This format can be easily modified to meet local requirements or to include hematologic tests unique to each laboratory.", "PMID": 433837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1808", "title": "Hyperplastic polyps of the gastric mucosa adjacent to gastroenterostomy stomas.", "content": "In two patients with functionally active, nonatrophic oxyntic gastric mucosa, hyperplastic polyps developed on the gastric side of Billroth II and Billroth I anastomoses. The polyp associated with the Billroth II procedure was almost circumferential, sparing only the lesser curvature. That associated with the Billroth I operation was on the anterior wall from lesser to greater curvature. The operations had been performed 11 years and ten years earlier for peptic ulcers of the gastroduodenal junction. The sites of polyp formation resembled those of experimental cancers in rats with Billroth I and Billroth II anastomoses, and of human cancer occurring 20 or more years after gastrojejunostomy for benign disease. This suggests that stomal carcinomas and hyperplastic polyps each result from the reflux of enteric contents into the stomach remnant.", "contents": "Hyperplastic polyps of the gastric mucosa adjacent to gastroenterostomy stomas. In two patients with functionally active, nonatrophic oxyntic gastric mucosa, hyperplastic polyps developed on the gastric side of Billroth II and Billroth I anastomoses. The polyp associated with the Billroth II procedure was almost circumferential, sparing only the lesser curvature. That associated with the Billroth I operation was on the anterior wall from lesser to greater curvature. The operations had been performed 11 years and ten years earlier for peptic ulcers of the gastroduodenal junction. The sites of polyp formation resembled those of experimental cancers in rats with Billroth I and Billroth II anastomoses, and of human cancer occurring 20 or more years after gastrojejunostomy for benign disease. This suggests that stomal carcinomas and hyperplastic polyps each result from the reflux of enteric contents into the stomach remnant.", "PMID": 433838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1809", "title": "Chondrosarcoma of the breast. Report of two cases.", "content": "The clinical and pathologic findings in two cases of pure chondrosarcoma of the breast are presented. As with other sarcomas, both tumors were large (5.5 and 25 cm in greatest diameter), did not invade the skin or axillary lymph nodes, and occurred in women more than 40 years old. Infiltrating margins, cellular atypism, and high mitotic rates adversely affected the prognosis.", "contents": "Chondrosarcoma of the breast. Report of two cases. The clinical and pathologic findings in two cases of pure chondrosarcoma of the breast are presented. As with other sarcomas, both tumors were large (5.5 and 25 cm in greatest diameter), did not invade the skin or axillary lymph nodes, and occurred in women more than 40 years old. Infiltrating margins, cellular atypism, and high mitotic rates adversely affected the prognosis.", "PMID": 433839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1810", "title": "Ochronosis in the breast.", "content": "A patient who had masses in the breasts clinically suggestive of neoplasia had fibrous mastopathy and striking deposition of ochronotic pigment within the soft tissue of the breast. The gross appearance and light microscopic features are illustrated. The histochemical features of ochronotic pigment and the difficulty in differentiating it from melanin are discussed.", "contents": "Ochronosis in the breast. A patient who had masses in the breasts clinically suggestive of neoplasia had fibrous mastopathy and striking deposition of ochronotic pigment within the soft tissue of the breast. The gross appearance and light microscopic features are illustrated. The histochemical features of ochronotic pigment and the difficulty in differentiating it from melanin are discussed.", "PMID": 433840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1811", "title": "Germ cells and ova in dysgenetic gonads of a 46-XY female dizygotic twin.", "content": "The frequency of germ cell neoplasms in girls with 46-XY gonadal dysgenesis suggests that germ cells may persist in the dysgenetic gonads for many years. A phenotypic female infant with a karyotype of 46-XY in blood, skin, and gonads had a few ova in primordial follicles and numerous germ cells in her dysgenetic gonads at the age of 3 months. At 3 years and 10 months of age her gonads contained no primordial follicle and the only remaining germ cells were in a gonadoblastoma. We propose that germ cells are lost from dysgenetic gonads much more rapidly than from normal gonads, but that the rate of loss in patients with a karyotype of 46-XY may be less than the rate of loss in patients with a karyotype of 45-XO.", "contents": "Germ cells and ova in dysgenetic gonads of a 46-XY female dizygotic twin. The frequency of germ cell neoplasms in girls with 46-XY gonadal dysgenesis suggests that germ cells may persist in the dysgenetic gonads for many years. A phenotypic female infant with a karyotype of 46-XY in blood, skin, and gonads had a few ova in primordial follicles and numerous germ cells in her dysgenetic gonads at the age of 3 months. At 3 years and 10 months of age her gonads contained no primordial follicle and the only remaining germ cells were in a gonadoblastoma. We propose that germ cells are lost from dysgenetic gonads much more rapidly than from normal gonads, but that the rate of loss in patients with a karyotype of 46-XY may be less than the rate of loss in patients with a karyotype of 45-XO.", "PMID": 433851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1812", "title": "Errors in drug computations during newborn intensive care.", "content": "Medical personnel in a pediatric center were tested for their ability to correctly compute drug doses for sick newborns. One of every 12 doses computed by 95 registered nurses contained an error that would result in the administration of an amount that was ten times higher or lower than the dose ordered. The error rate was no different for experienced or inexperienced nurses. The test also included an evaluation of the nurse's ability to judge the appropriateness of the drug dose ordered for a specified infant. Experienced nurses tended to be more certain, although wrong, in their judgment when compared to inexperienced nurses. Eleven pediatricians, when given the same test, scored higher than the nurses but still made errors at the rate of one of every 26 computations attempted. Five registered pharmacists who were tested demonstrated far better computational skills than either the nursing or physician group.", "contents": "Errors in drug computations during newborn intensive care. Medical personnel in a pediatric center were tested for their ability to correctly compute drug doses for sick newborns. One of every 12 doses computed by 95 registered nurses contained an error that would result in the administration of an amount that was ten times higher or lower than the dose ordered. The error rate was no different for experienced or inexperienced nurses. The test also included an evaluation of the nurse's ability to judge the appropriateness of the drug dose ordered for a specified infant. Experienced nurses tended to be more certain, although wrong, in their judgment when compared to inexperienced nurses. Eleven pediatricians, when given the same test, scored higher than the nurses but still made errors at the rate of one of every 26 computations attempted. Five registered pharmacists who were tested demonstrated far better computational skills than either the nursing or physician group.", "PMID": 433852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1813", "title": "Wormian bones. A marker of CNS abnormality?", "content": "The present investigation was undertaken to determine the incidence and significance of Wormian bones (WBs) in a random group of infants and children seen at the Jewish Hospital Medical Center of Brooklyn. Ninety-one (17%) of 515 infants and children were found to have WBs; 82 of these children (90%) had a gross disorder of the CNS and five (6%) had the so-called minimal brain dysfunction syndrome. In the remaining four patients, the data and follow-up are incomplete. Three of these did have developmental anomalies of other organ systems. Thus, the presence of WBs is almost invariably associated with abnormal development of the CNS and may serve as a useful marker for the early identification and treatment of the affected infant or child.", "contents": "Wormian bones. A marker of CNS abnormality? The present investigation was undertaken to determine the incidence and significance of Wormian bones (WBs) in a random group of infants and children seen at the Jewish Hospital Medical Center of Brooklyn. Ninety-one (17%) of 515 infants and children were found to have WBs; 82 of these children (90%) had a gross disorder of the CNS and five (6%) had the so-called minimal brain dysfunction syndrome. In the remaining four patients, the data and follow-up are incomplete. Three of these did have developmental anomalies of other organ systems. Thus, the presence of WBs is almost invariably associated with abnormal development of the CNS and may serve as a useful marker for the early identification and treatment of the affected infant or child.", "PMID": 433853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1814", "title": "4q- syndrome.", "content": "To our knowledge, there have been three prior reports of patients found, with trypsin-Giemsa banding, to be monosomic for the terminal q segment of chromosome 4. Described herein is a fourth patient with this chromosome abnormality. Comparison of these four patients suggests a characteristic phenotype in the 4q- syndrome: cleft palate, satyr deformity of the pinnae, snub nose, retrognathia and micrognathia, hypertelorism, oropharyngeal hypothonia or upper airway obstruction, cardiac defect, clinodactyly of the fifth fingers with absence of a flexion crease, simian lines, displaced or clinodactylous toes, and mental retardation. In the three prior reports, the 4q- syndrome resulted from a de novo deletion. In the present case, the 4q monosomy was inherited from the father, who had a 4;20 translocation.", "contents": "4q- syndrome. To our knowledge, there have been three prior reports of patients found, with trypsin-Giemsa banding, to be monosomic for the terminal q segment of chromosome 4. Described herein is a fourth patient with this chromosome abnormality. Comparison of these four patients suggests a characteristic phenotype in the 4q- syndrome: cleft palate, satyr deformity of the pinnae, snub nose, retrognathia and micrognathia, hypertelorism, oropharyngeal hypothonia or upper airway obstruction, cardiac defect, clinodactyly of the fifth fingers with absence of a flexion crease, simian lines, displaced or clinodactylous toes, and mental retardation. In the three prior reports, the 4q- syndrome resulted from a de novo deletion. In the present case, the 4q monosomy was inherited from the father, who had a 4;20 translocation.", "PMID": 433854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1815", "title": "Childhood dermatomyositis and polymyositis. Treatment with methotrexate and prednisone.", "content": "The conditions of three children with dermatomyositis and one child with polymyositis were treated for nine to 31 months with combined prednisone and intravenous methotrexate (1 mg/kg/wk) when prednisone alone was ineffective in controlling the disease or when there were substantial steroid-related toxic effects. All children showed a major clinical improvement within three months despite concomitant reduction of the prednisone dose. Three children completely recovered; one patient relapsed and died. The toxic effects of methotrexate included elevated liver transaminases (3/4), nausea (2/4), abdominal pain (2/4), bone pain (2/4), mild neutropenia (1/4), and mild pruritus (1/4). Intravenous methotrexate is an effective adjunct to steroid therapy in the treatment of steroid-resistant or life-threatening dermatomyositis-polyositis or dermatomyositis-polymyositis complicated by severe steroid-related effects.", "contents": "Childhood dermatomyositis and polymyositis. Treatment with methotrexate and prednisone. The conditions of three children with dermatomyositis and one child with polymyositis were treated for nine to 31 months with combined prednisone and intravenous methotrexate (1 mg/kg/wk) when prednisone alone was ineffective in controlling the disease or when there were substantial steroid-related toxic effects. All children showed a major clinical improvement within three months despite concomitant reduction of the prednisone dose. Three children completely recovered; one patient relapsed and died. The toxic effects of methotrexate included elevated liver transaminases (3/4), nausea (2/4), abdominal pain (2/4), bone pain (2/4), mild neutropenia (1/4), and mild pruritus (1/4). Intravenous methotrexate is an effective adjunct to steroid therapy in the treatment of steroid-resistant or life-threatening dermatomyositis-polyositis or dermatomyositis-polymyositis complicated by severe steroid-related effects.", "PMID": 433855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1816", "title": "Familial arthrogrypotic-like hand abnormality and sensorineural deafness.", "content": "We describe a family with arthrogrypotic-like hand abnormalities. There were ten affected members in two generations. Three of ten affected persons showed an associated sensorineural hearing loss. The degree of the hand deformities and hearing loss varied in affected individuals. The pattern of inheritance seems to be autosomal dominant with variable expressivity. The findings in this syndrome resemble those reported previously.", "contents": "Familial arthrogrypotic-like hand abnormality and sensorineural deafness. We describe a family with arthrogrypotic-like hand abnormalities. There were ten affected members in two generations. Three of ten affected persons showed an associated sensorineural hearing loss. The degree of the hand deformities and hearing loss varied in affected individuals. The pattern of inheritance seems to be autosomal dominant with variable expressivity. The findings in this syndrome resemble those reported previously.", "PMID": 433856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1817", "title": "Endogamic incest and the victim-perpetrator model.", "content": "Traditionally incest has been seen as the aggressive act of a deranged adult perpetrator against a child victim. While this conceptualization is true for some cases of incest, it ignores the family dynamics and the underlying affectional neglect and deprivation that the child has experienced in the home environment. It can lead to interventions such as immediate incarceration of the perpetrator in all cases, which may cause more harm than good; furthermore, it may permit the state to provide no therapeutic services to the child. By using a more realistic conceptualization of prolonged endogamic incest, useful interventions and therapeutic plans can be designed.", "contents": "Endogamic incest and the victim-perpetrator model. Traditionally incest has been seen as the aggressive act of a deranged adult perpetrator against a child victim. While this conceptualization is true for some cases of incest, it ignores the family dynamics and the underlying affectional neglect and deprivation that the child has experienced in the home environment. It can lead to interventions such as immediate incarceration of the perpetrator in all cases, which may cause more harm than good; furthermore, it may permit the state to provide no therapeutic services to the child. By using a more realistic conceptualization of prolonged endogamic incest, useful interventions and therapeutic plans can be designed.", "PMID": 433857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1818", "title": "The hyperactive child. Should we be paying more attention?", "content": "Current literature on hyperactivity stresses the central role of short attention, distractibility, and impulsivity in contributing to the child's behavioral and learning difficulties. Less emphasis is presently placed on minor neurological abnormalities (\"soft signs\") and unproved theories of brain injury. There has also been a trend toward a more comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to the problem in an attempt to meaningfully integrate medical and psychoeducational input. Professional awareness of the family's need for supportive counseling and the importance of appropriate educational placement for the hyperactive child has enhanced the effectiveness of intervention programs. Although stimulant medication has been clearly shown to favorably influence behavior ratings and measures of attention in hyperactive children, pharmacologic manipulation of deviant social behavior remains a very controversial subject.", "contents": "The hyperactive child. Should we be paying more attention? Current literature on hyperactivity stresses the central role of short attention, distractibility, and impulsivity in contributing to the child's behavioral and learning difficulties. Less emphasis is presently placed on minor neurological abnormalities (\"soft signs\") and unproved theories of brain injury. There has also been a trend toward a more comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to the problem in an attempt to meaningfully integrate medical and psychoeducational input. Professional awareness of the family's need for supportive counseling and the importance of appropriate educational placement for the hyperactive child has enhanced the effectiveness of intervention programs. Although stimulant medication has been clearly shown to favorably influence behavior ratings and measures of attention in hyperactive children, pharmacologic manipulation of deviant social behavior remains a very controversial subject.", "PMID": 433858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1819", "title": "Recurrent abdominal pain.", "content": "A long-term follow-up study (minimum of five years) of 161 children with recurrent abdominal pain disclosed that three had organic disease and that was missed--inflammatory bowel disease. Anorexia nervosa developed in one patient. Three fourths of the patients recovered from the initial symptom; most recovered within a few weeks; but some patients continued to have complaints for a number of years. Approximately 20% of patients underwent additional surgical or medical treatments of doubtful necessity. In 18% of patients, other psychosomatic symptoms developed.", "contents": "Recurrent abdominal pain. A long-term follow-up study (minimum of five years) of 161 children with recurrent abdominal pain disclosed that three had organic disease and that was missed--inflammatory bowel disease. Anorexia nervosa developed in one patient. Three fourths of the patients recovered from the initial symptom; most recovered within a few weeks; but some patients continued to have complaints for a number of years. Approximately 20% of patients underwent additional surgical or medical treatments of doubtful necessity. In 18% of patients, other psychosomatic symptoms developed.", "PMID": 433872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1820", "title": "Chronic nonspecific diarrhea. A complication of dietary fat restriction.", "content": "Chronic nonspecific diarrhea is a frequent cause of prolonged diarrhea in childhood. Typical diagnostic features include onset by 30 months of age, normal growth and development, and diarrhea lasting longer than two weeks. It usually follows a gastroenteritis or an acute infection and has been associated with a low intake of dietary fat. Five patients experienced this condition following dietary manipulation to prevent the occurrence of atheromatous coronary artery disease. This indicates that diminished dietary fat not only can prolong postinfectious diarrhea but can also induce a state of chronic diarrhea without evidence of malabsorption.", "contents": "Chronic nonspecific diarrhea. A complication of dietary fat restriction. Chronic nonspecific diarrhea is a frequent cause of prolonged diarrhea in childhood. Typical diagnostic features include onset by 30 months of age, normal growth and development, and diarrhea lasting longer than two weeks. It usually follows a gastroenteritis or an acute infection and has been associated with a low intake of dietary fat. Five patients experienced this condition following dietary manipulation to prevent the occurrence of atheromatous coronary artery disease. This indicates that diminished dietary fat not only can prolong postinfectious diarrhea but can also induce a state of chronic diarrhea without evidence of malabsorption.", "PMID": 433873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1821", "title": "Group D streptococcal septicemia in the neonate.", "content": "The clinical course of 11 patients with neonatal group D streptococcal septicemia is reviewed. Two of the infants died and hydrocephalus developed in one. Group D Streptococcus, both enterococci and nonenterococci, should be considered pathogenic in the neonate until proved otherwise. The antibiotics of choice for treating such infections in the newborn are ampicillin sodium and either kanamycin sulfate or gentamicin sulfate.", "contents": "Group D streptococcal septicemia in the neonate. The clinical course of 11 patients with neonatal group D streptococcal septicemia is reviewed. Two of the infants died and hydrocephalus developed in one. Group D Streptococcus, both enterococci and nonenterococci, should be considered pathogenic in the neonate until proved otherwise. The antibiotics of choice for treating such infections in the newborn are ampicillin sodium and either kanamycin sulfate or gentamicin sulfate.", "PMID": 433874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1822", "title": "Endocrine abnormalities in thalassemia major.", "content": "Endocrine function evaluations in 16 patients with beta-thalassemia indicate that hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, hypoparathyroidism, and reduced adrenocorticotropic hormone reserve occur frequently, whereas reduced growth hormone and thyroid reserve are less common manifestations. Hemosiderosis-induced damage of the endocrine glands seems to be the main cause for endocrine dysfunction in the patients studied.", "contents": "Endocrine abnormalities in thalassemia major. Endocrine function evaluations in 16 patients with beta-thalassemia indicate that hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, hypoparathyroidism, and reduced adrenocorticotropic hormone reserve occur frequently, whereas reduced growth hormone and thyroid reserve are less common manifestations. Hemosiderosis-induced damage of the endocrine glands seems to be the main cause for endocrine dysfunction in the patients studied.", "PMID": 433875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1823", "title": "Infantile obstructive cholangiopathy.", "content": "The relationship between neonatal hepatitis and biliary atresia has been extensively discussed. Clinical and laboratory evaluations are often unsuccessful in distinguishing between the two diseases. Laparotomy, cholangiogram, and liver biopsy are often required. Several authors have proposed that the two diseases may represent variable expressions of one entity. A case that illustrates infantile obstructive cholangiopathy is presented and the clinical implications are discussed.", "contents": "Infantile obstructive cholangiopathy. The relationship between neonatal hepatitis and biliary atresia has been extensively discussed. Clinical and laboratory evaluations are often unsuccessful in distinguishing between the two diseases. Laparotomy, cholangiogram, and liver biopsy are often required. Several authors have proposed that the two diseases may represent variable expressions of one entity. A case that illustrates infantile obstructive cholangiopathy is presented and the clinical implications are discussed.", "PMID": 433876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1824", "title": "RBC surface pits in the sickle hemoglobinopathies.", "content": "Functional asplenia develops in children with sickle cell anemia. This asplenia is related to the increased incidence of bacterial sepsis that has been documented in these patients. With the use of direct-interference contrast microscopy to quantitate splenic function, we studied children with the sickle hemoglobinopathies. A gradual increase in splenic dysfunction with increasing age was documented in children with homozygous sickle cell disease. Children with the sickle variants also seem to manifest degrees of splenic dysfunction. Direct-interference contrast microscopy is a simple quantitative technique for the evaluation of splenic function in children with the sickle hemoglobinopathies.", "contents": "RBC surface pits in the sickle hemoglobinopathies. Functional asplenia develops in children with sickle cell anemia. This asplenia is related to the increased incidence of bacterial sepsis that has been documented in these patients. With the use of direct-interference contrast microscopy to quantitate splenic function, we studied children with the sickle hemoglobinopathies. A gradual increase in splenic dysfunction with increasing age was documented in children with homozygous sickle cell disease. Children with the sickle variants also seem to manifest degrees of splenic dysfunction. Direct-interference contrast microscopy is a simple quantitative technique for the evaluation of splenic function in children with the sickle hemoglobinopathies.", "PMID": 433877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1825", "title": "Body image and the process of reconstructive surgery.", "content": "Newer craniofacial operative techniques produce rapid changes in objective appearance and permit the study of body-image change. In 21 patients with either Crouzon's disease or Alpert's syndrome, a four-factor model of body-image development was applied that emphasizes cognitive growth, perception of body stimuli, stimuli from the environment in the form of comparison, and the response from others. Before a child is of school age, he has substantially defined his body image, therefore corrective surgery must be considered earlier. Although surgical intervention may produce significant objective physical change, there is not a correspondingly rapid change in body image. Four phases in the modification of body image are (1) the decision to undergo surgery, (2) the operative experience, (3) the immediate postoperative period, and (4) the reintegration stage. Recognition of this phasic process will help integrate care of these patients.", "contents": "Body image and the process of reconstructive surgery. Newer craniofacial operative techniques produce rapid changes in objective appearance and permit the study of body-image change. In 21 patients with either Crouzon's disease or Alpert's syndrome, a four-factor model of body-image development was applied that emphasizes cognitive growth, perception of body stimuli, stimuli from the environment in the form of comparison, and the response from others. Before a child is of school age, he has substantially defined his body image, therefore corrective surgery must be considered earlier. Although surgical intervention may produce significant objective physical change, there is not a correspondingly rapid change in body image. Four phases in the modification of body image are (1) the decision to undergo surgery, (2) the operative experience, (3) the immediate postoperative period, and (4) the reintegration stage. Recognition of this phasic process will help integrate care of these patients.", "PMID": 433878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1826", "title": "Duodenal involvement with Crohn's disease: a spectrum of radiographic abnormality.", "content": "The clinical and radiographic features of 22 cases of duodenal Crohn's disease were analyzed. The presenting clinical findings in the majority suggested peptic disease rather than regional enteritis. There was no cases of isolated duodenal Crohn's disease but a spectrum of radiographic abnormalities was produced by duodenal involvement with Crohn's disease which simulated a variety of clinical entities. A radiographic examination of the small bowel or colon was useful to confirm a diagnosis of Crohn's disease when duodenal abnormalities were suggestive.", "contents": "Duodenal involvement with Crohn's disease: a spectrum of radiographic abnormality. The clinical and radiographic features of 22 cases of duodenal Crohn's disease were analyzed. The presenting clinical findings in the majority suggested peptic disease rather than regional enteritis. There was no cases of isolated duodenal Crohn's disease but a spectrum of radiographic abnormalities was produced by duodenal involvement with Crohn's disease which simulated a variety of clinical entities. A radiographic examination of the small bowel or colon was useful to confirm a diagnosis of Crohn's disease when duodenal abnormalities were suggestive.", "PMID": 433886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1827", "title": "Esophageal achalasia secondary to gastric carcinoma. Report of a case and a review of the literature.", "content": "A case of invasive gastric carcinoma mimicking idiopathic achalasia radiologically, endoscopically and manometrically is described. This is only the second case of tumor-associated achalasia with a positive mecholyl test where there was no demonstrable histological tumor involvement of the myenteric plexus in the body of the esophagus. The interpretation of the manometric findings including the positive mecholyl test are discussed in the light of these histological findings. The short duration of symptoms, the presence of anemia and guaiac positive stools, along with subtle radiologic abnormalities of the gastric fundus were aspects of this case which should increase the index of suspicion and lead to the correct diagnosis. In the evaluation of patients with the achalasic syndrome, a tumor-associated functional and organic disorder mimicking idiopathic achalasia in all respects has to be considered.", "contents": "Esophageal achalasia secondary to gastric carcinoma. Report of a case and a review of the literature. A case of invasive gastric carcinoma mimicking idiopathic achalasia radiologically, endoscopically and manometrically is described. This is only the second case of tumor-associated achalasia with a positive mecholyl test where there was no demonstrable histological tumor involvement of the myenteric plexus in the body of the esophagus. The interpretation of the manometric findings including the positive mecholyl test are discussed in the light of these histological findings. The short duration of symptoms, the presence of anemia and guaiac positive stools, along with subtle radiologic abnormalities of the gastric fundus were aspects of this case which should increase the index of suspicion and lead to the correct diagnosis. In the evaluation of patients with the achalasic syndrome, a tumor-associated functional and organic disorder mimicking idiopathic achalasia in all respects has to be considered.", "PMID": 433888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1828", "title": "Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography with the Chiba needle.", "content": "Ninety patients with suspected pathology of the biliary tract were submitted to percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. Forty-two of 43 dilated biliary tracts and 32 of 47 without dilatation were successfully entered. Except for fever following the procedure in two patients, there was no major complication. This technic was of prime importance in the management of patients with suspected pathology of the biliary tract.", "contents": "Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography with the Chiba needle. Ninety patients with suspected pathology of the biliary tract were submitted to percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. Forty-two of 43 dilated biliary tracts and 32 of 47 without dilatation were successfully entered. Except for fever following the procedure in two patients, there was no major complication. This technic was of prime importance in the management of patients with suspected pathology of the biliary tract.", "PMID": 433889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1829", "title": "Transverse taeniamyotomy in localized acute diverticulitis.", "content": "Transverse taeniamyotomy has been in use for over four years in the surgical correction of the muscle abnormality of diverticular disease. Essentially, the technic is to carefully transversely incise the two antimesenteric taeniae coli at 2 cm. intervals, in a stepwise manner, from the rectosigmoid junction proximally up to normal colon. This causes the cut ends of the taeniae coli to pull apart into separate 2 cm. blocks of longitudinal muscle. Thus elongation and widening of the colon occurs, resulting in dilatation of the necks and free drainage of the diverticula obstructed by inflammation. Four patients are presented with localized diverticulitis who had simple transverse taeniamyotomy from which they quickly recovered. This operation justifies continuing study as it may increase the surgeon's range of response over one end of the spectrum of acute diverticulitis.", "contents": "Transverse taeniamyotomy in localized acute diverticulitis. Transverse taeniamyotomy has been in use for over four years in the surgical correction of the muscle abnormality of diverticular disease. Essentially, the technic is to carefully transversely incise the two antimesenteric taeniae coli at 2 cm. intervals, in a stepwise manner, from the rectosigmoid junction proximally up to normal colon. This causes the cut ends of the taeniae coli to pull apart into separate 2 cm. blocks of longitudinal muscle. Thus elongation and widening of the colon occurs, resulting in dilatation of the necks and free drainage of the diverticula obstructed by inflammation. Four patients are presented with localized diverticulitis who had simple transverse taeniamyotomy from which they quickly recovered. This operation justifies continuing study as it may increase the surgeon's range of response over one end of the spectrum of acute diverticulitis.", "PMID": 433890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1830", "title": "Mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst. An ultrasonic diagnosis.", "content": "Mediastinal extension of pancreatic pseudocysts is uncommon. Frequent presenting complaints include chest pain and shortness of breath. Dysphagia is rare. A patient with mediastinal pseudocyst causing dysphagia is presented. The role of gray-scale ultrasound as a reliable means of diagnosis is discussed.", "contents": "Mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst. An ultrasonic diagnosis. Mediastinal extension of pancreatic pseudocysts is uncommon. Frequent presenting complaints include chest pain and shortness of breath. Dysphagia is rare. A patient with mediastinal pseudocyst causing dysphagia is presented. The role of gray-scale ultrasound as a reliable means of diagnosis is discussed.", "PMID": 433893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1831", "title": "Regeneration of jejunal mucosa during recovery from malnutrition and pancreatic insufficiency.", "content": "A patient with a history of alcohol abuse, who presented with severe malnutrition, was subjected to serial jejunal biopsies during his hospitalization. The improvement in villous size and absorptive cell ultrastructure paralleled his clinical recovery. It is concluded that the caloric and trophic benefits of food, the pancreatic and vitamin replacement therapy and withdrawal of alcohol, all played an integral part in the regeneration of the jujunal mucosa.", "contents": "Regeneration of jejunal mucosa during recovery from malnutrition and pancreatic insufficiency. A patient with a history of alcohol abuse, who presented with severe malnutrition, was subjected to serial jejunal biopsies during his hospitalization. The improvement in villous size and absorptive cell ultrastructure paralleled his clinical recovery. It is concluded that the caloric and trophic benefits of food, the pancreatic and vitamin replacement therapy and withdrawal of alcohol, all played an integral part in the regeneration of the jujunal mucosa.", "PMID": 433894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1832", "title": "Determination of the lower esophageal sphincter pressure in patients having a Nissen or Belsey fundoplication.", "content": "Thirty patients were studied prospectively in evaluating the Nissen (28) and Belsey (2) fundoplication manometrically using the Kronsberg probe and Honeywell recorder. Twenty-eight patients in the Nissen fundoplication group had abnormally low LESP preoperatively and normal postoperative for one year with an average increase of 9 mm. Hg. They became asymptomatic and their esophageal mucosa became normal and remained normal endoscopically for three years. The only failures were two patients treated with the Belsey fundoplication. The gas bloat syndrome occurred in two patients and was relieved by esophageal dilatation. The Nissen fundoplication should be highly recommended as the surgical procedure of choice in the treatment of reflux esophagitis not responding to medical program.", "contents": "Determination of the lower esophageal sphincter pressure in patients having a Nissen or Belsey fundoplication. Thirty patients were studied prospectively in evaluating the Nissen (28) and Belsey (2) fundoplication manometrically using the Kronsberg probe and Honeywell recorder. Twenty-eight patients in the Nissen fundoplication group had abnormally low LESP preoperatively and normal postoperative for one year with an average increase of 9 mm. Hg. They became asymptomatic and their esophageal mucosa became normal and remained normal endoscopically for three years. The only failures were two patients treated with the Belsey fundoplication. The gas bloat syndrome occurred in two patients and was relieved by esophageal dilatation. The Nissen fundoplication should be highly recommended as the surgical procedure of choice in the treatment of reflux esophagitis not responding to medical program.", "PMID": 433896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1833", "title": "Hepatitis B antigen and antibody in heroin users.", "content": "Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibody (anti-HBsAg) were determined on 442 asymptomatic heroin users and 246 controls. Of the drug-taking group, 124 used heroin intravenously and 318 nonintravenously (smoking, sniffing). Twenty-three (5.2%) heroin users were HBsAg positive and 118 (26.7%) anti-HBsAg positive, compared to three (1.2%) HBsAg positive and 28 (11.4%) anti-HBsAg positive controls, both statistically significant. HBsAg was positive in eight (6.5%) intravenous heroin users and statistically identical to 15 (4.7%) HBsAg positive nonintravenous users. Positive anti-HBsAg in 55 (44.4%) intravenous heroin users compared to 63 (19.8%) nonintravenous users, however, is statistically significicant.", "contents": "Hepatitis B antigen and antibody in heroin users. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibody (anti-HBsAg) were determined on 442 asymptomatic heroin users and 246 controls. Of the drug-taking group, 124 used heroin intravenously and 318 nonintravenously (smoking, sniffing). Twenty-three (5.2%) heroin users were HBsAg positive and 118 (26.7%) anti-HBsAg positive, compared to three (1.2%) HBsAg positive and 28 (11.4%) anti-HBsAg positive controls, both statistically significant. HBsAg was positive in eight (6.5%) intravenous heroin users and statistically identical to 15 (4.7%) HBsAg positive nonintravenous users. Positive anti-HBsAg in 55 (44.4%) intravenous heroin users compared to 63 (19.8%) nonintravenous users, however, is statistically significicant.", "PMID": 433898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1834", "title": "Ultrasound in the diagnosis of cholestatic jaundice.", "content": "A total of 70 cases of cholestatic jaundice have been studied by gray scale ultrasonography in order to evaluate how this technic may be used to differentiate between intra- and extrahepatic cholestasis. In 37 out of 42 patients (88.1%) with jaundice of extrahepatic origin, dilatation of the biliary tree was demonstrated, whereas in all the 28 patients with intrahepatic cholestasis biliary dilatation was clearly excluded. In addition, gallstones in the biliary ducts were detected in 12 out of 20 cases and enlargement of the head of the pancreas (due to carcinoma or chronic pancreatitis) was often correctly diagnosed (nine out of 13 cases). These results suggest that ultrasonography should represent the first step in the diagnostic approach to cholestasis. Information gained from this noninvasive technic should make it possible to correctly plan the more complex investigations (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography).", "contents": "Ultrasound in the diagnosis of cholestatic jaundice. A total of 70 cases of cholestatic jaundice have been studied by gray scale ultrasonography in order to evaluate how this technic may be used to differentiate between intra- and extrahepatic cholestasis. In 37 out of 42 patients (88.1%) with jaundice of extrahepatic origin, dilatation of the biliary tree was demonstrated, whereas in all the 28 patients with intrahepatic cholestasis biliary dilatation was clearly excluded. In addition, gallstones in the biliary ducts were detected in 12 out of 20 cases and enlargement of the head of the pancreas (due to carcinoma or chronic pancreatitis) was often correctly diagnosed (nine out of 13 cases). These results suggest that ultrasonography should represent the first step in the diagnostic approach to cholestasis. Information gained from this noninvasive technic should make it possible to correctly plan the more complex investigations (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography).", "PMID": 433899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1835", "title": "Idiopathic calcific pancreatitis, CRST syndrome and progressive systemic sclerosis.", "content": "A 43-year old man with CRST syndrome (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, sclerodactyly and telangiectasia) and progressive systemic sclerosis presented with a four-year history of relapsing abdominal pain, the result of chronic pancreatitis, not associated with alcoholism, biliary disease, or any of the known causes of pancreatitis. He had a good response to retrograde pancreatic duct drainage but exhibited management problems and complications that may be peculiar to the systemic sclerosis patient with pancreatitis. A cause and effect relationship between progressive systemic sclerosis and pancreatic disease is not proven but we believe there is evidence to suggest such a relationship.", "contents": "Idiopathic calcific pancreatitis, CRST syndrome and progressive systemic sclerosis. A 43-year old man with CRST syndrome (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, sclerodactyly and telangiectasia) and progressive systemic sclerosis presented with a four-year history of relapsing abdominal pain, the result of chronic pancreatitis, not associated with alcoholism, biliary disease, or any of the known causes of pancreatitis. He had a good response to retrograde pancreatic duct drainage but exhibited management problems and complications that may be peculiar to the systemic sclerosis patient with pancreatitis. A cause and effect relationship between progressive systemic sclerosis and pancreatic disease is not proven but we believe there is evidence to suggest such a relationship.", "PMID": 433900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1836", "title": "Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) responses to oral and intravenous glucose in man.", "content": "Serum human pancreatic polypeptide (hPP) responses to 50 gm. of oral glucose and a 25 gm. intravenous bolus of glucose were measured in 10 healthy human volunteers. Oral glucose caused a 50% rise, whereas I.V. glucose caused a 35% fall in hPP concentration. There was no relationship between the absolute glucose concentration or the change in glucose level and the PP concentration. It is suggested that oral and I.V. glucose affect PP by indirect mechanisms and that PP may be involved in carbohydrate metabolism in man.", "contents": "Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) responses to oral and intravenous glucose in man. Serum human pancreatic polypeptide (hPP) responses to 50 gm. of oral glucose and a 25 gm. intravenous bolus of glucose were measured in 10 healthy human volunteers. Oral glucose caused a 50% rise, whereas I.V. glucose caused a 35% fall in hPP concentration. There was no relationship between the absolute glucose concentration or the change in glucose level and the PP concentration. It is suggested that oral and I.V. glucose affect PP by indirect mechanisms and that PP may be involved in carbohydrate metabolism in man.", "PMID": 433901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1837", "title": "Pancreatic Ascites.", "content": "Ascites occurring in patients with a history of alcoholism is usually due to cirrhosis but clinically significant ascites also occurs in association with pancreatic disease. We reviewed 265 cases of pancreatitis over a five-year period. There were 129 blacks and 136 Caucasians. Ages ranged from 19-86 years with a mean of 46.2 years. Eight of these cases (3%) were found to have pancreatic ascites. The initial serum and urinary amylase had no prognostic value regarding the subsequent development of pancreatic ascites. The mean ascitic fluid amylase was 14,426 Somogyi units (range 1,279-67,774). The mean ascitic fluid protein was 4.6 gm./100ml. (range 1.4-7.2). High enzyme and protein concentration in the ascitic fluid are characteristic of pancreatic ascites. Out of eight cases, two were associated with a pseudocyst, three with hemorrhagic pancreatitis and three with acute edematous pancreatitis. Four of these eight (50%) died. Pancreatic ascites is a distinct clinical entity which should be differentiated from cirrhotic, tuberculous or malignant ascites.", "contents": "Pancreatic Ascites. Ascites occurring in patients with a history of alcoholism is usually due to cirrhosis but clinically significant ascites also occurs in association with pancreatic disease. We reviewed 265 cases of pancreatitis over a five-year period. There were 129 blacks and 136 Caucasians. Ages ranged from 19-86 years with a mean of 46.2 years. Eight of these cases (3%) were found to have pancreatic ascites. The initial serum and urinary amylase had no prognostic value regarding the subsequent development of pancreatic ascites. The mean ascitic fluid amylase was 14,426 Somogyi units (range 1,279-67,774). The mean ascitic fluid protein was 4.6 gm./100ml. (range 1.4-7.2). High enzyme and protein concentration in the ascitic fluid are characteristic of pancreatic ascites. Out of eight cases, two were associated with a pseudocyst, three with hemorrhagic pancreatitis and three with acute edematous pancreatitis. Four of these eight (50%) died. Pancreatic ascites is a distinct clinical entity which should be differentiated from cirrhotic, tuberculous or malignant ascites.", "PMID": 433902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1838", "title": "Acute cholecystitis secondary to unusual gallstones.", "content": "Gallstone formation around metallic foreign bodies is an unusual cause of acute cholecystitis. Two cases of penetrating abdominal trauma are described in which metallic fragments served as the nidus for calculus formation and later precipitated an acute abdominal problem.", "contents": "Acute cholecystitis secondary to unusual gallstones. Gallstone formation around metallic foreign bodies is an unusual cause of acute cholecystitis. Two cases of penetrating abdominal trauma are described in which metallic fragments served as the nidus for calculus formation and later precipitated an acute abdominal problem.", "PMID": 433903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1839", "title": "Pernicious anemia caused by Crohn's disease of the stomach.", "content": "A patient with granulomatous gastritis is described. Two years after the presentation of his gastric disease he developed pernicious anemia. Lack of intrinsic factor production secondary to Crohn's disease of the stomach is felt to be the cause of his Vitamin B12 malabsorption.", "contents": "Pernicious anemia caused by Crohn's disease of the stomach. A patient with granulomatous gastritis is described. Two years after the presentation of his gastric disease he developed pernicious anemia. Lack of intrinsic factor production secondary to Crohn's disease of the stomach is felt to be the cause of his Vitamin B12 malabsorption.", "PMID": 433904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1840", "title": "Fulminant disseminated intravascular coagulation in advanced gastric carcinoma.", "content": "A case of fulminant disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in a 51-year old man, presenting with bleeding gastric adenocarcinoma, is reported. In spite of initial hematologic improvement by replacement therapy the patient died on the fifth day after admission. The rare association of DIC with adenocarcinoma of the stomach is discussed.", "contents": "Fulminant disseminated intravascular coagulation in advanced gastric carcinoma. A case of fulminant disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in a 51-year old man, presenting with bleeding gastric adenocarcinoma, is reported. In spite of initial hematologic improvement by replacement therapy the patient died on the fifth day after admission. The rare association of DIC with adenocarcinoma of the stomach is discussed.", "PMID": 433906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1841", "title": "Peliosis hepatis due to oxymetholone--a clinically benign disorder.", "content": "Peliosis hepatis is a rare hepatic disorder mainly diagnosed at surgery or autopsy. Clinical outcome is thus frequently poor. We report a patient in whom the diagnosis was established by percutaneous needly biopsy. Withdrawal of the steroid medication was followed by a prompt clinical improvement. Although histologic proof of regression is not available, this experience suggests a more favorable prognosis than previously thought possible.", "contents": "Peliosis hepatis due to oxymetholone--a clinically benign disorder. Peliosis hepatis is a rare hepatic disorder mainly diagnosed at surgery or autopsy. Clinical outcome is thus frequently poor. We report a patient in whom the diagnosis was established by percutaneous needly biopsy. Withdrawal of the steroid medication was followed by a prompt clinical improvement. Although histologic proof of regression is not available, this experience suggests a more favorable prognosis than previously thought possible.", "PMID": 433907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1842", "title": "Absorption of orally administered digoxin after massive resection of the small bowel.", "content": "Digoxin absorption was studied in a patient after massive small bowel resection (with only 15 cm. of jejunum left) after mesenteric thrombosis. Oral administration of 0.25 mg. digoxin tablets resulted in therapeutic blood levels between 0.7 and 2.2 ng./ml. Measurement of the urinary excretion of the drug in steady state revealed more than 80% of the maintenance dose. Renal digoxin clearance was 125 ml./min. This resulted in slowing of the heart rate from 120 to 80/min. with no side-effects. It is thus concluded that total absorption of digoxin might be normal in a patient with only 15 cm. of jejunum and that usual dogs of digoxin were sufficient for a therapeutic effect and \"therapeutic\" blood levels", "contents": "Absorption of orally administered digoxin after massive resection of the small bowel. Digoxin absorption was studied in a patient after massive small bowel resection (with only 15 cm. of jejunum left) after mesenteric thrombosis. Oral administration of 0.25 mg. digoxin tablets resulted in therapeutic blood levels between 0.7 and 2.2 ng./ml. Measurement of the urinary excretion of the drug in steady state revealed more than 80% of the maintenance dose. Renal digoxin clearance was 125 ml./min. This resulted in slowing of the heart rate from 120 to 80/min. with no side-effects. It is thus concluded that total absorption of digoxin might be normal in a patient with only 15 cm. of jejunum and that usual dogs of digoxin were sufficient for a therapeutic effect and \"therapeutic\" blood levels", "PMID": 433908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1843", "title": "Colonic intussusception in uremia.", "content": "Colonic intussusception is a condition primarily found in infants and young children. In adults, it is usually associated with a colonic neoplasm. The following report illustrates a case of colonic intussusception in an adult uremic patient in whom postmortem examination showed evidence only of intramural colonic hemorrhage.", "contents": "Colonic intussusception in uremia. Colonic intussusception is a condition primarily found in infants and young children. In adults, it is usually associated with a colonic neoplasm. The following report illustrates a case of colonic intussusception in an adult uremic patient in whom postmortem examination showed evidence only of intramural colonic hemorrhage.", "PMID": 433910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1844", "title": "Risk of suicide among cancer patients.", "content": "Of the 28,857 cancer cases registered by the Finnish Cancer Registry in 1955, 1960 and 1965, 63 patients had committed suicide by the end of 1970. The suicide rate among males was 1.3 times higher (p less than 0.01) and among females 1.9 times higher (p less than 0.05) than the rate in the general population. The highest suicide risk (relative risk 2.5, p less than 0.001) was associated with gastrointestinal cancer. Patients with a non-localized tumor at diagnosis had a two-fold risk of suicide and the rate was higher among patients undergoing no treatment, or treatment with chemotherapy or hormones only. It was estimated that 23% of all suicides among male cancer patients and 46% among female cancer patients was associated with the patients having cancer.", "contents": "Risk of suicide among cancer patients. Of the 28,857 cancer cases registered by the Finnish Cancer Registry in 1955, 1960 and 1965, 63 patients had committed suicide by the end of 1970. The suicide rate among males was 1.3 times higher (p less than 0.01) and among females 1.9 times higher (p less than 0.05) than the rate in the general population. The highest suicide risk (relative risk 2.5, p less than 0.001) was associated with gastrointestinal cancer. Patients with a non-localized tumor at diagnosis had a two-fold risk of suicide and the rate was higher among patients undergoing no treatment, or treatment with chemotherapy or hormones only. It was estimated that 23% of all suicides among male cancer patients and 46% among female cancer patients was associated with the patients having cancer.", "PMID": 433917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1845", "title": "The UCLA population studies of chronic obstructive respiratory disease. I. Methodology and comparison of lung function in areas of high and low pollution.", "content": "The prevalence of symptoms of chronic obstructive respiratory disease and of functional respiratory impairment was determined in 3465 residents (70 per cent of enumerated) of an area historically exposed to photochemical/oxidant pollutants and 4509 residents (79 per cent of enumerated) of an area exposed to low levels of chemical pollutants. Tests administered included the NHLI questionnaire, electronic volume spirometry, whole body plethysmography, and the single-breath nitrogen test (deltaN2750-1250 and closing volume). Cough and cough with sputum were more frequently reported in the low-pollution area. Lung function was better among residents of the low-pollution area according to FEV1, FVC, maximal expiratory flow rates, closing volume fraction, thoracic gas volume, and airway resistance. Maximal mid-expiratory flow rate, considered to be a sensitive spirometric test for detection of small airways disease, was similar in residents of both areas. Mean deltaN2750-1250 was slightly worse among residents of the low-pollution area. Findings suggest that adverse effects of long-term exposure to photochemical/oxidant pollutants may occur primarily in the larger airways both among smokers and never smokers. The greatest differences between areas were observed in residents 18-59 years of age, suggesting that long-term exposure may be required to cause measurable impairment and that these differnces may be obliterated by such factors as smoking, differential out-migration and differential survival.", "contents": "The UCLA population studies of chronic obstructive respiratory disease. I. Methodology and comparison of lung function in areas of high and low pollution. The prevalence of symptoms of chronic obstructive respiratory disease and of functional respiratory impairment was determined in 3465 residents (70 per cent of enumerated) of an area historically exposed to photochemical/oxidant pollutants and 4509 residents (79 per cent of enumerated) of an area exposed to low levels of chemical pollutants. Tests administered included the NHLI questionnaire, electronic volume spirometry, whole body plethysmography, and the single-breath nitrogen test (deltaN2750-1250 and closing volume). Cough and cough with sputum were more frequently reported in the low-pollution area. Lung function was better among residents of the low-pollution area according to FEV1, FVC, maximal expiratory flow rates, closing volume fraction, thoracic gas volume, and airway resistance. Maximal mid-expiratory flow rate, considered to be a sensitive spirometric test for detection of small airways disease, was similar in residents of both areas. Mean deltaN2750-1250 was slightly worse among residents of the low-pollution area. Findings suggest that adverse effects of long-term exposure to photochemical/oxidant pollutants may occur primarily in the larger airways both among smokers and never smokers. The greatest differences between areas were observed in residents 18-59 years of age, suggesting that long-term exposure may be required to cause measurable impairment and that these differnces may be obliterated by such factors as smoking, differential out-migration and differential survival.", "PMID": 433916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1846", "title": "Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis outbreaks aboard two cruise ships.", "content": "Outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastrointestinal illness occurred on two Caribbean cruise ships in late 1974 and early 1975. In all, 697 passengers and 27 crew were affected. Epidemiologic evidence incriminated seafoods served on the ships as the vehicles of transmission. The seafoods were probably contaminated by V. parahaemolyticus after cooking in seawater from the ships' internal seawater distribution systems. Use of seawater in foodhandling areas was discontinued, and no further outbreaks occurred.", "contents": "Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis outbreaks aboard two cruise ships. Outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastrointestinal illness occurred on two Caribbean cruise ships in late 1974 and early 1975. In all, 697 passengers and 27 crew were affected. Epidemiologic evidence incriminated seafoods served on the ships as the vehicles of transmission. The seafoods were probably contaminated by V. parahaemolyticus after cooking in seawater from the ships' internal seawater distribution systems. Use of seawater in foodhandling areas was discontinued, and no further outbreaks occurred.", "PMID": 433918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1847", "title": "Anencephalus, drinking water, geomagnetism and cosmic radiation.", "content": "The mortality rates from anencephalus from 1950-1969 in Canadian cities are shown to be strongly correlated with city growth rate and with horizontal geomagnetic flux, which is directly related to the intensity of cosmic radiation. They are also shown to have some association with the magnesium content of drinking water. Prior work with these data which showed associations with magnesium in drinking water, mean income, latitude and longitude was found to be inadequate because it dismissed the observed geographic associations as having little biological meaning, and because the important variables of geomagnetism and city growth rate were overlooked.", "contents": "Anencephalus, drinking water, geomagnetism and cosmic radiation. The mortality rates from anencephalus from 1950-1969 in Canadian cities are shown to be strongly correlated with city growth rate and with horizontal geomagnetic flux, which is directly related to the intensity of cosmic radiation. They are also shown to have some association with the magnesium content of drinking water. Prior work with these data which showed associations with magnesium in drinking water, mean income, latitude and longitude was found to be inadequate because it dismissed the observed geographic associations as having little biological meaning, and because the important variables of geomagnetism and city growth rate were overlooked.", "PMID": 433919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1848", "title": "Inversion duplication of chromosome 6 with trisomic codominant expression of HLA antigens.", "content": "Trisomic codominant expression of the HLA antigens was observed in an infant with duplication of a part of 6p occurring as a result of crossing over within a paternally transmitted pericentric inversion. The HLA-A and B loci were linked absolutely with the inversion chromosome in a four generation pedigree.", "contents": "Inversion duplication of chromosome 6 with trisomic codominant expression of HLA antigens. Trisomic codominant expression of the HLA antigens was observed in an infant with duplication of a part of 6p occurring as a result of crossing over within a paternally transmitted pericentric inversion. The HLA-A and B loci were linked absolutely with the inversion chromosome in a four generation pedigree.", "PMID": 433922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1849", "title": "Population genetic studies of the Philippine Negritos. II. gm and km allotypes of three population groups.", "content": "Serum samples of the three tribal Negrito populations in the Philippine Islands (127 from Zambales, 87 from Bataan, and 93 from Agusan) were tested for Glm(1,2,3 and 17), and G3m(5,6,11,13,14,15,16, and 21), and Km(1). The GMpatterm of the Negritos is characterized by three haplotypes, Gm1,17;21, Gm1,2,17;21, and Gm1,3;5,11,13,14, which is also characteristic of Mongoloid-related populations, especially with high incidence of the latter haplotype. They also have the haplotype, Gm1,17;5,13,14, prevalent in Africa, New Guinea, and northern Australia, suggesting an ancient link between the Negritos and the New Guinean-Australian group. Two unusual samples of G3m(15) positive without G3m(16) observed in Zambales Negritos suggest the presence of Gm1,17;5,11,13,14,15 haplotype in the population. This appears to be unique to Zambales Negritos and the first such samples to be found.", "contents": "Population genetic studies of the Philippine Negritos. II. gm and km allotypes of three population groups. Serum samples of the three tribal Negrito populations in the Philippine Islands (127 from Zambales, 87 from Bataan, and 93 from Agusan) were tested for Glm(1,2,3 and 17), and G3m(5,6,11,13,14,15,16, and 21), and Km(1). The GMpatterm of the Negritos is characterized by three haplotypes, Gm1,17;21, Gm1,2,17;21, and Gm1,3;5,11,13,14, which is also characteristic of Mongoloid-related populations, especially with high incidence of the latter haplotype. They also have the haplotype, Gm1,17;5,13,14, prevalent in Africa, New Guinea, and northern Australia, suggesting an ancient link between the Negritos and the New Guinean-Australian group. Two unusual samples of G3m(15) positive without G3m(16) observed in Zambales Negritos suggest the presence of Gm1,17;5,11,13,14,15 haplotype in the population. This appears to be unique to Zambales Negritos and the first such samples to be found.", "PMID": 433923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1850", "title": "Preliminary communication: prenatal detection of the Fanconi Anemia gene by cytogenetic methods.", "content": "We have studied the pattern of chromosome instability in cultured fibroblasts and fetal membrane cells from a fetus aborted by an individual with a history of a previous child affected with Fanconi anemia (FA). These cells exhibited a low level of spontaneous chromosome instability. Upon treatment with diepoxybutane (DEB), chromosome breakage increased to a level comparable to that reported earlier in DEB-treated FA heterozygous cells. Cultured cells derived from chromosomally normal fetuses which served as controls did not show DEB-induced chromosome breakage. This observation suggests that the fetus studied is heterozygous for the FA gene. The ability to distinguish readily between the three genotypes (homozygous FA, heterozygous FA, and normal) in an in vitro stress system that measures the response of the cells to a clastogenic agent makes available a test for the prenatal and postnatal detection of the FA gene.", "contents": "Preliminary communication: prenatal detection of the Fanconi Anemia gene by cytogenetic methods. We have studied the pattern of chromosome instability in cultured fibroblasts and fetal membrane cells from a fetus aborted by an individual with a history of a previous child affected with Fanconi anemia (FA). These cells exhibited a low level of spontaneous chromosome instability. Upon treatment with diepoxybutane (DEB), chromosome breakage increased to a level comparable to that reported earlier in DEB-treated FA heterozygous cells. Cultured cells derived from chromosomally normal fetuses which served as controls did not show DEB-induced chromosome breakage. This observation suggests that the fetus studied is heterozygous for the FA gene. The ability to distinguish readily between the three genotypes (homozygous FA, heterozygous FA, and normal) in an in vitro stress system that measures the response of the cells to a clastogenic agent makes available a test for the prenatal and postnatal detection of the FA gene.", "PMID": 433924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1851", "title": "Compounding times and contamination rates associated with the preparation of intravenous admixtures in three types of plastic containers.", "content": "The compounding times and contamination rates associated with the preparation of admixtures in three different plastic i.v. containers of dextrose 5% in water were compared. The time required for a technician to prepare, in a laminar air flow hood by the needle and syringe technique, 120 admixtures in each of three different plastic i.v. containers was measured and recorded by two investigators. The 360 admixtures were tested within one hour of preparation for sterility using an enriched brain heart infusion broth. The total time required to compound the i.v. admixtures varied significantly with container design (p less than 0.01), preparation being fastest with the Accumed container, followed by the LifeCare then the Viaflex containers. The major contributing factors to increased compounding time were (1) removal of outer wrap, (2) swabbing of LifeCare and Viaflex medication ports with isopropyl alcohol pads and (3) freeing of the hangar flap from the Viaflex container. Sterility tests revealed no detectable contamination of any of the admixtures. Container design of plastic i.v. containers did influence the preparation time for admixtures but did not influence admixture sterility.", "contents": "Compounding times and contamination rates associated with the preparation of intravenous admixtures in three types of plastic containers. The compounding times and contamination rates associated with the preparation of admixtures in three different plastic i.v. containers of dextrose 5% in water were compared. The time required for a technician to prepare, in a laminar air flow hood by the needle and syringe technique, 120 admixtures in each of three different plastic i.v. containers was measured and recorded by two investigators. The 360 admixtures were tested within one hour of preparation for sterility using an enriched brain heart infusion broth. The total time required to compound the i.v. admixtures varied significantly with container design (p less than 0.01), preparation being fastest with the Accumed container, followed by the LifeCare then the Viaflex containers. The major contributing factors to increased compounding time were (1) removal of outer wrap, (2) swabbing of LifeCare and Viaflex medication ports with isopropyl alcohol pads and (3) freeing of the hangar flap from the Viaflex container. Sterility tests revealed no detectable contamination of any of the admixtures. Container design of plastic i.v. containers did influence the preparation time for admixtures but did not influence admixture sterility.", "PMID": 433938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1852", "title": "Prognosis in rheumatoid arthritis. A longitudinal study of newly diagnosed younger adult patients.", "content": "The course of rheumatoid arthritis was analyzed in 50 newly-diagnosed adults followed prospectively for an average of over five years. Eighteen patients had no swelling and no erosion (outcome 1), 22 patients had swelling without erosion (outcome 2) and 10 patients had erosion (outcome 3). Computer-assisted data screening and multivariate analytic technics were employed to derive a simple index from entry data which correlated closely with the patients' subsequent articular course. The index included six entry items: positive rhematoid factor; two or more swollen upper extremity joints on examination (2 points each); history of Raynaud's-like symptoms; malaise or weakness at the onset of arthritis; white race and female sex (1 point each). This index was 80 per cent accurate over-all in classifying patients into the three mutually exclusive articular outcome categories. Zero to 2 points on entry predicted no swelling, 3 to 5 points swelling without erosion and 6 to 8 points the development of bony erosion. Although results must be qualified to this patient population in the early stages of disease, the analytic approaches developed promise to assist with a broad range of clinical research and medical care delivery problems.", "contents": "Prognosis in rheumatoid arthritis. A longitudinal study of newly diagnosed younger adult patients. The course of rheumatoid arthritis was analyzed in 50 newly-diagnosed adults followed prospectively for an average of over five years. Eighteen patients had no swelling and no erosion (outcome 1), 22 patients had swelling without erosion (outcome 2) and 10 patients had erosion (outcome 3). Computer-assisted data screening and multivariate analytic technics were employed to derive a simple index from entry data which correlated closely with the patients' subsequent articular course. The index included six entry items: positive rhematoid factor; two or more swollen upper extremity joints on examination (2 points each); history of Raynaud's-like symptoms; malaise or weakness at the onset of arthritis; white race and female sex (1 point each). This index was 80 per cent accurate over-all in classifying patients into the three mutually exclusive articular outcome categories. Zero to 2 points on entry predicted no swelling, 3 to 5 points swelling without erosion and 6 to 8 points the development of bony erosion. Although results must be qualified to this patient population in the early stages of disease, the analytic approaches developed promise to assist with a broad range of clinical research and medical care delivery problems.", "PMID": 433943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1853", "title": "Pericardial disease in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Six patients with rheumatoid constrictive pericarditis, five seen in a two and one half year period, are described. All patients were male, all had rheumatoid factor, and all had active arthritis. Diagnosis was suspected from careful physical examination and confirmed in five patients by cardiac catheterization. Pericardiectomy was successful in all five patients on whom it was performed. Rheumatoid constrictive pericarditis should be suspected in any patient with rheumatoid arthritis and unexplained signs of right heart failure.", "contents": "Pericardial disease in rheumatoid arthritis. Six patients with rheumatoid constrictive pericarditis, five seen in a two and one half year period, are described. All patients were male, all had rheumatoid factor, and all had active arthritis. Diagnosis was suspected from careful physical examination and confirmed in five patients by cardiac catheterization. Pericardiectomy was successful in all five patients on whom it was performed. Rheumatoid constrictive pericarditis should be suspected in any patient with rheumatoid arthritis and unexplained signs of right heart failure.", "PMID": 433944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1854", "title": "Propranolol therapy in thyrotoxicosis. A review of 84 patients undergoing surgery.", "content": "The effect of propranolol on the surgical course of 84 thyrotoxic patients undergoing partial thyroidectomy or extrathyroidal surgery was evaluated. Seventy-two patients (group 1) underwent surgery with propranolol as their sole preparatory medication, whereas in 12 (group 2) surgery was carried out after a rather prolonged period of thionamide preparation with the addition of propranolol preoperatively as an adjunctive therapeutic agent. Preoperative pulse rate and systolic blood pressure levels fell in both groups, and the clinical features of thyrotoxicosis were rapidly ameliorated with an average dose of propranolol of 330 mg (range 40 to 1,280 mg) daily. Maximal clinical response occurred within 48 to 72 hours of starting propranolol therapy. In 14 patients in group 1, paired serum calcium levels were reduced by the administration of propranolol preoperatively; serum thyroxine levels were unchanged. Serum thyroxine decay, evaluated postoperatively in the patients in group 1, was decreased. The half life of thyroxine was inversely related to the initial thyroxine levels. Analysis of these data indicates that the administration of propranolol alone provides rapid, safe and effective preparation of thyrotoxic patients for emergency or for elective thyroidal or extrathyroidal surgical procedures.", "contents": "Propranolol therapy in thyrotoxicosis. A review of 84 patients undergoing surgery. The effect of propranolol on the surgical course of 84 thyrotoxic patients undergoing partial thyroidectomy or extrathyroidal surgery was evaluated. Seventy-two patients (group 1) underwent surgery with propranolol as their sole preparatory medication, whereas in 12 (group 2) surgery was carried out after a rather prolonged period of thionamide preparation with the addition of propranolol preoperatively as an adjunctive therapeutic agent. Preoperative pulse rate and systolic blood pressure levels fell in both groups, and the clinical features of thyrotoxicosis were rapidly ameliorated with an average dose of propranolol of 330 mg (range 40 to 1,280 mg) daily. Maximal clinical response occurred within 48 to 72 hours of starting propranolol therapy. In 14 patients in group 1, paired serum calcium levels were reduced by the administration of propranolol preoperatively; serum thyroxine levels were unchanged. Serum thyroxine decay, evaluated postoperatively in the patients in group 1, was decreased. The half life of thyroxine was inversely related to the initial thyroxine levels. Analysis of these data indicates that the administration of propranolol alone provides rapid, safe and effective preparation of thyrotoxic patients for emergency or for elective thyroidal or extrathyroidal surgical procedures.", "PMID": 433947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1855", "title": "Selective jejunal hyperabsorption of calcium in absorptive hypercalciuria.", "content": "Calcium absorption in the jejunum and ileum of patients with absorptive hypercalciuria was studied by in vivo intestinal perfusion. Net calcium absorption in the jejunum was markedly increased at four luminal calcium concentrations (1 to 20 mM) in the patients with absorptive hypercalciuria when compared to that in normal subjects. In the ileum, net calcium absorption was only slightly increased in the patients with absorptive hypercalciuria. Experiments with radioactive calcium (47Ca) revealed increased unidirectional flux out of the jejunal lumen in the patients but no difference in the unidirectional flux into the lumen, when compared to that in normal control subjects. Net magnesium absorption was normal in the patients. These results suggest that hyperabsorption of calcium in patients with absorptive hypercalciuria is mainly due to enhanced calcium transport in the jejunum and that the defect is specific for calcium since magnesium is absorbed normally.", "contents": "Selective jejunal hyperabsorption of calcium in absorptive hypercalciuria. Calcium absorption in the jejunum and ileum of patients with absorptive hypercalciuria was studied by in vivo intestinal perfusion. Net calcium absorption in the jejunum was markedly increased at four luminal calcium concentrations (1 to 20 mM) in the patients with absorptive hypercalciuria when compared to that in normal subjects. In the ileum, net calcium absorption was only slightly increased in the patients with absorptive hypercalciuria. Experiments with radioactive calcium (47Ca) revealed increased unidirectional flux out of the jejunal lumen in the patients but no difference in the unidirectional flux into the lumen, when compared to that in normal control subjects. Net magnesium absorption was normal in the patients. These results suggest that hyperabsorption of calcium in patients with absorptive hypercalciuria is mainly due to enhanced calcium transport in the jejunum and that the defect is specific for calcium since magnesium is absorbed normally.", "PMID": 433948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1856", "title": "Nonalcoholic liver disease. Overlooked causes of liver injury in patients with heavy alcohol consumption.", "content": "Alcoholic subjects with abnormal liver chemistry studies are often assumed to have alcoholic liver disease, even though the diagnosis is not established by liver biopsy. To determine the magnitude of nonalcoholic liver disease in patients with heavy alcohol consumption, the data on 145 consecutive patients judged to consume at least 80 g of alcohol daily for prolonged periods, and who underwent liver biopsy at the University of Chicago, were reviewed. Nonalcoholic liver disease was suspected clinically and confirmed by liver biopsy in 40 (28 per cent), whereas alcoholic liver disease was suspected in 105 but confirmed in only 83 (80 per cent). The remaining 22 patients had liver disorders, including cholangitis or pericholangitis, acute hepatitis or some form of chronic hepatitis, for which they required appropriate therapy. Neither clinical features, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBsAg nor serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase to serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGOT:SGPT) ratios distinguished these 22 patients from those with alcoholic liver disease. Thus, liver biopsy is necessary for the identification of nonalcoholic liver disease in patients suspected of harboring alcoholic liver disease, since other clinical features do not allow identification of these patients.", "contents": "Nonalcoholic liver disease. Overlooked causes of liver injury in patients with heavy alcohol consumption. Alcoholic subjects with abnormal liver chemistry studies are often assumed to have alcoholic liver disease, even though the diagnosis is not established by liver biopsy. To determine the magnitude of nonalcoholic liver disease in patients with heavy alcohol consumption, the data on 145 consecutive patients judged to consume at least 80 g of alcohol daily for prolonged periods, and who underwent liver biopsy at the University of Chicago, were reviewed. Nonalcoholic liver disease was suspected clinically and confirmed by liver biopsy in 40 (28 per cent), whereas alcoholic liver disease was suspected in 105 but confirmed in only 83 (80 per cent). The remaining 22 patients had liver disorders, including cholangitis or pericholangitis, acute hepatitis or some form of chronic hepatitis, for which they required appropriate therapy. Neither clinical features, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBsAg nor serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase to serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGOT:SGPT) ratios distinguished these 22 patients from those with alcoholic liver disease. Thus, liver biopsy is necessary for the identification of nonalcoholic liver disease in patients suspected of harboring alcoholic liver disease, since other clinical features do not allow identification of these patients.", "PMID": 433949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1857", "title": "Central nervous system complications of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The potential role for prophylactic therapy.", "content": "In 38 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) by malignant lymphoma developed during an eight year period. All patients had lymphomatous meningitis; clinical involvement of the spinal nerves or cranial nerves suggested the diagnosis. Spinal fluid was abnormal in 97 per cent of the patients although a positive cytology could be documented in only 67 per cent by lumbar puncture. The histology in 82 per cent of the patients was diffuse. Involvement of the CNS in nodular lymphoma was uncommon (3 per cent), and the histology in virtually all of these patients had converted to diffuse. At the time of diagnosis of CNS disease, 95 per cent of the patients had other evidence of advanced disease; 66 per cent had bone marrow involvement. In only 18 per cent of the patients did CNS disease develop while they were in clinical remission. Eighty-five per cent of the patients treated with whole brain irradiation and intrathecal chemotherapy had a good clinical response. Knowledge of these risk factors permits definition of a group of patients who may benefit from CNS prophylaxis.", "contents": "Central nervous system complications of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The potential role for prophylactic therapy. In 38 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) by malignant lymphoma developed during an eight year period. All patients had lymphomatous meningitis; clinical involvement of the spinal nerves or cranial nerves suggested the diagnosis. Spinal fluid was abnormal in 97 per cent of the patients although a positive cytology could be documented in only 67 per cent by lumbar puncture. The histology in 82 per cent of the patients was diffuse. Involvement of the CNS in nodular lymphoma was uncommon (3 per cent), and the histology in virtually all of these patients had converted to diffuse. At the time of diagnosis of CNS disease, 95 per cent of the patients had other evidence of advanced disease; 66 per cent had bone marrow involvement. In only 18 per cent of the patients did CNS disease develop while they were in clinical remission. Eighty-five per cent of the patients treated with whole brain irradiation and intrathecal chemotherapy had a good clinical response. Knowledge of these risk factors permits definition of a group of patients who may benefit from CNS prophylaxis.", "PMID": 433950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1858", "title": "Infections due to group C streptococci in man.", "content": "Although a common cause of infection in animals, group C streptococci are rarely noted to be pathogenic in man. A total of 150,000 blood cultures obtained at the Mayo Clinic from 1968 to 1977 revealed group C streptococci in only eight patients. Acute bacterial endocarditis, meningitis, pheumonia, cellulitis and bacteremia due to group C streptococci are described in a host who had undergone immunosuppression (immunosuppressed host), and the relatively few cases previously reported are reviewed. Although severe, these infections may respond favorably to penicillin therapy. Endocarditis caused by group D streptococci is acute and destructive, and associated with early cardiac decompensation. The manifestations of cellulitis and pneumonia are similar to those when group A streptococci are causative organisms. Meningitis due to group C streptococci is acute and severe, and responds slowly to antimicrobial therapy. Colonization also occurs.", "contents": "Infections due to group C streptococci in man. Although a common cause of infection in animals, group C streptococci are rarely noted to be pathogenic in man. A total of 150,000 blood cultures obtained at the Mayo Clinic from 1968 to 1977 revealed group C streptococci in only eight patients. Acute bacterial endocarditis, meningitis, pheumonia, cellulitis and bacteremia due to group C streptococci are described in a host who had undergone immunosuppression (immunosuppressed host), and the relatively few cases previously reported are reviewed. Although severe, these infections may respond favorably to penicillin therapy. Endocarditis caused by group D streptococci is acute and destructive, and associated with early cardiac decompensation. The manifestations of cellulitis and pneumonia are similar to those when group A streptococci are causative organisms. Meningitis due to group C streptococci is acute and severe, and responds slowly to antimicrobial therapy. Colonization also occurs.", "PMID": 433951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1859", "title": "Occult dental infection as a cause of fever of obscure origin.", "content": "Three patients with prolonged unexplained fevers were ultimately found to have deep-seated dental infection. After initial examination failed to elicit symptoms or signs of dental infection, and extensive in-hospital evaluation was nonproductive, dental consultation with roentgenograms provided the diagnosis. All three patients underwent dental extractions with periapical or peridontal debridement; following a brief postoperative febrile period, all three responded with defervescence, without subsequent recurrence of fever. These cases emphasize the importance of periapical and peridontal infection as causes of fever of obscure origin. The pathogenesis, characteristics and bacteriology of periapical abscess are discussed.", "contents": "Occult dental infection as a cause of fever of obscure origin. Three patients with prolonged unexplained fevers were ultimately found to have deep-seated dental infection. After initial examination failed to elicit symptoms or signs of dental infection, and extensive in-hospital evaluation was nonproductive, dental consultation with roentgenograms provided the diagnosis. All three patients underwent dental extractions with periapical or peridontal debridement; following a brief postoperative febrile period, all three responded with defervescence, without subsequent recurrence of fever. These cases emphasize the importance of periapical and peridontal infection as causes of fever of obscure origin. The pathogenesis, characteristics and bacteriology of periapical abscess are discussed.", "PMID": 433953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1860", "title": "Recent advances in programmable pacemakers. Consideration of advantages, longevity and future expectations.", "content": "The important electrical characteristics of conventional ventricular demand pacemakers currently widely employed are unable to be altered by noninvasive means after their implantation. However, a number of domestic pacemaker manufacturers have started to introduce a new modality for atraumatic modulation of these devices, the fully programmable pacemaker system, whereby the several variables regulating pacemaker operation may be optimized on an individual basis according to need. Such programmable pacemaker functions which can be varied include rate, energy output, refractory period and sensing threshold. The indications, significance and mechanisms for control of the various function programming are delineated for physician understanding at the present time.", "contents": "Recent advances in programmable pacemakers. Consideration of advantages, longevity and future expectations. The important electrical characteristics of conventional ventricular demand pacemakers currently widely employed are unable to be altered by noninvasive means after their implantation. However, a number of domestic pacemaker manufacturers have started to introduce a new modality for atraumatic modulation of these devices, the fully programmable pacemaker system, whereby the several variables regulating pacemaker operation may be optimized on an individual basis according to need. Such programmable pacemaker functions which can be varied include rate, energy output, refractory period and sensing threshold. The indications, significance and mechanisms for control of the various function programming are delineated for physician understanding at the present time.", "PMID": 433954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1861", "title": "Wide splitting of the first heart sound secondary to tricuspid valve endocarditis. A phonocardiographic-echocardiographic study.", "content": "A patient is described with tricuspid valve endocarditis in whom the vegetation interfered with valve closure resulting in marked wide splitting of the first heart sound. M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiographic studies detected the presence of a vegetation. Simultaneous phonocardiographic and echocardiographic studies documented the marked delay in tricuspid valve closure and differentiated wide splitting of the first heart sound from other causes of early and mid-systolic sounds. Following pulmonary embolization, the first heart sound returned to normal. Echocardiographic disappearance of the vegetation of the tricuspid valve was also noted. Regrowth of the vegetation again produced the abnormal phonocardiographic and echocardiographic findings.", "contents": "Wide splitting of the first heart sound secondary to tricuspid valve endocarditis. A phonocardiographic-echocardiographic study. A patient is described with tricuspid valve endocarditis in whom the vegetation interfered with valve closure resulting in marked wide splitting of the first heart sound. M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiographic studies detected the presence of a vegetation. Simultaneous phonocardiographic and echocardiographic studies documented the marked delay in tricuspid valve closure and differentiated wide splitting of the first heart sound from other causes of early and mid-systolic sounds. Following pulmonary embolization, the first heart sound returned to normal. Echocardiographic disappearance of the vegetation of the tricuspid valve was also noted. Regrowth of the vegetation again produced the abnormal phonocardiographic and echocardiographic findings.", "PMID": 433956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1862", "title": "Renal artery dysplasia in a patient with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis.", "content": "A 27 year old man with nephrotic syndrome due to membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis had multifocal stenoses of the renal and intestinal arteries. The arterial lesions demonstrated by angiograhy closely resembled those of medial fibromuscular dysplasia. The dysplasia progressed over a five year period to involve both renal arteries from their extrarenal segments through their interlobar branches. Low serum levels of complement components C3 and C4, focal reduplication of the glomerular basement membrane on light microscopy, and the patterns of glomerular localization of IgG and C3 by immunofluorescence were characteristic of type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. The development of the arterial dysplasia in a patient with chronic glomerulonephritis suggests a common immunologic pathogenesis of both disorders.", "contents": "Renal artery dysplasia in a patient with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. A 27 year old man with nephrotic syndrome due to membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis had multifocal stenoses of the renal and intestinal arteries. The arterial lesions demonstrated by angiograhy closely resembled those of medial fibromuscular dysplasia. The dysplasia progressed over a five year period to involve both renal arteries from their extrarenal segments through their interlobar branches. Low serum levels of complement components C3 and C4, focal reduplication of the glomerular basement membrane on light microscopy, and the patterns of glomerular localization of IgG and C3 by immunofluorescence were characteristic of type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. The development of the arterial dysplasia in a patient with chronic glomerulonephritis suggests a common immunologic pathogenesis of both disorders.", "PMID": 433957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1863", "title": "Haemophilus parainfluenzae mitral valve vegetation without hemodynamic abnormality. Demonstration by angiography and serial echocardiography.", "content": "The occurrence of Haemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis on a previously normal mitral valve of a drug addict is described. A large mitral valve vegetation was demonstrated by serial echocardiography and cineangiography. The vegetation did not produce hemodynamic abnormalities preventing detection by physical examination. Multiple septic emboli to various organs, including brain, resulted in death. The role of serial echocardiography and the levophase of right heart cineangiography in detecting mitral valve vegetation in a patient suspected of having infective endocarditis is emphasized.", "contents": "Haemophilus parainfluenzae mitral valve vegetation without hemodynamic abnormality. Demonstration by angiography and serial echocardiography. The occurrence of Haemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis on a previously normal mitral valve of a drug addict is described. A large mitral valve vegetation was demonstrated by serial echocardiography and cineangiography. The vegetation did not produce hemodynamic abnormalities preventing detection by physical examination. Multiple septic emboli to various organs, including brain, resulted in death. The role of serial echocardiography and the levophase of right heart cineangiography in detecting mitral valve vegetation in a patient suspected of having infective endocarditis is emphasized.", "PMID": 433959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1864", "title": "Disordered breathing and oxygen desaturation during sleep in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD).", "content": "Seven patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) were monitored during their overnight sleep to determine the occurrence of disordered breathing and oxygen desaturation. Nasal and oral airflows were sensed by thermistor probes, chest wall movement by impedance pneumography and arterial oxygen saturation by ear oximetry. These variables were correlated with electroencephalographic and electrooculographic tracings. The subjects had a mean base line oxygen saturation of 89.2 per cent and slept an average of 218 minutes. Six of these seven subjects had one to 30 episodes of oxygen desaturation (decrease more than 4 per cent), 4 seconds to 30 minutes in duration, with declines in saturation as great as 36 per cent. In two subjects, saturation dropped to less than 50 per cent. Breathing was disordered in five of the seven subjects and included apnea and hypopnea. Subjects experienced from nine to 37 episodes of disordered breathing. Disordered breathing caused 42 per cent of the episodes of desaturation, all of which were less than 1 minute in duration. The mean maximum decline in saturation was 7.6 per cent. All episodes of desaturation lasting longer than 5 minutes occurred in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and were not caused by disordered breathing. The mean maximal decrease in saturation was 22 per cent. This study reveals that disordered breathing is common in subjects with COLD and often causes desaturation but that it cannot explain all episodes of sleep desaturation.", "contents": "Disordered breathing and oxygen desaturation during sleep in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD). Seven patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) were monitored during their overnight sleep to determine the occurrence of disordered breathing and oxygen desaturation. Nasal and oral airflows were sensed by thermistor probes, chest wall movement by impedance pneumography and arterial oxygen saturation by ear oximetry. These variables were correlated with electroencephalographic and electrooculographic tracings. The subjects had a mean base line oxygen saturation of 89.2 per cent and slept an average of 218 minutes. Six of these seven subjects had one to 30 episodes of oxygen desaturation (decrease more than 4 per cent), 4 seconds to 30 minutes in duration, with declines in saturation as great as 36 per cent. In two subjects, saturation dropped to less than 50 per cent. Breathing was disordered in five of the seven subjects and included apnea and hypopnea. Subjects experienced from nine to 37 episodes of disordered breathing. Disordered breathing caused 42 per cent of the episodes of desaturation, all of which were less than 1 minute in duration. The mean maximum decline in saturation was 7.6 per cent. All episodes of desaturation lasting longer than 5 minutes occurred in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and were not caused by disordered breathing. The mean maximal decrease in saturation was 22 per cent. This study reveals that disordered breathing is common in subjects with COLD and often causes desaturation but that it cannot explain all episodes of sleep desaturation.", "PMID": 433964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1865", "title": "The usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy in evaluating new pulmonary lesions in the compromised host.", "content": "Thirty-four fiberoptic bronchoscopies employing various bronchoscopic technics were carried out in 33 immune-compromised patients for the evaluation of new pulmonary lesions. Transbronchial biopsy was performed only with fluoroscopic guidance and was omitted in patients with a bleeding tendency. Bronchial brushing and bronchial washing were successfully carried out despite the presence of contraindications to biopsy. Brushing and washing were diagnostically useful in 66 and 74 per cent of the cases, respectively, compared to 71 per cent for forceps biopsy. The combined over-all yield was 88 per cent, with no serious complications encountered. The most common etiology of new infiltrates was opportunistic infection. Among bacterial infections, gram-negative organisms were the most common, and among fungal etiologies, Coccidioides immitis was the predominant pathogen in this series from Tucson, Arizona. Although the roentgenographic pattern was not helpful in predicting the etiology of the new infiltrates, diffuse lesions were more frequently evaluated correctly by fiberoptic bronchoscopy than localized lesions. The low incidence of complications and the high over-all yield indicate that fiberoptic bronchoscopy, employing bronchial brushing and washing as supplements to transbronchial biopsy (and as a replacement to biopsy in patients with a bleeding diathesis), can be very useful in evaluating new pulmonary lesions in the immune-compromised patient. When used together, these technics significantly increase the diagnostic yield and eliminate the risks associated with performing more invasive diagnostic procedures in the compromised host.", "contents": "The usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy in evaluating new pulmonary lesions in the compromised host. Thirty-four fiberoptic bronchoscopies employing various bronchoscopic technics were carried out in 33 immune-compromised patients for the evaluation of new pulmonary lesions. Transbronchial biopsy was performed only with fluoroscopic guidance and was omitted in patients with a bleeding tendency. Bronchial brushing and bronchial washing were successfully carried out despite the presence of contraindications to biopsy. Brushing and washing were diagnostically useful in 66 and 74 per cent of the cases, respectively, compared to 71 per cent for forceps biopsy. The combined over-all yield was 88 per cent, with no serious complications encountered. The most common etiology of new infiltrates was opportunistic infection. Among bacterial infections, gram-negative organisms were the most common, and among fungal etiologies, Coccidioides immitis was the predominant pathogen in this series from Tucson, Arizona. Although the roentgenographic pattern was not helpful in predicting the etiology of the new infiltrates, diffuse lesions were more frequently evaluated correctly by fiberoptic bronchoscopy than localized lesions. The low incidence of complications and the high over-all yield indicate that fiberoptic bronchoscopy, employing bronchial brushing and washing as supplements to transbronchial biopsy (and as a replacement to biopsy in patients with a bleeding diathesis), can be very useful in evaluating new pulmonary lesions in the immune-compromised patient. When used together, these technics significantly increase the diagnostic yield and eliminate the risks associated with performing more invasive diagnostic procedures in the compromised host.", "PMID": 433965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1866", "title": "Ectopic production of lipotropin by cancer.", "content": "Lipotropin (LPH) has been evaluated as a potential tumor marker using a sensitive beta melanocyte-stimulating hormone (beta MSH) radioimmunoassay. All 79 acetic acid extracts of carcinomas of lung, colon, stomach, esophagus and breast contained LPH in concentrations greater than blood; 61 of 79 extracts contained LPH in larger amounts than control tissues from patients without cancer. In a blind prospective study, plasma LPH was quantified in 107 patients admitted for work-up because of an abnormality on a chest roentgenogram. Thirty-one of 33 patients subsequently diagnosed as having benign lesions had plasma LPH within the 95 per cent confidence limits of normal subjects whereas 28 (36 per cent) of the 74 patients subsequently diagnosed histologically as having primary lung carcinoma had elevated levels. In control studies, 13 of 100 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had elevated plasma LPH levels; three of the 13 with elevated levels and four with normal levels have been diagnosed, during the two years of follow-up, as having lung carcinoma. In control studies of 23 patients with granulomatous lung disease, 22 had normal levels of LPH. In those with carcinoma of the colon elevated plasma LPH levels were observed in two of 21 untreated patients and in 11 of 61 patients receiving noncurative chemotherapy. Elevated plasma LPH levels were also observed in 10 of 59 patients with breast cancer, eight of 28 with pancreatic cancer, eight of 22 with gastric or esophageal cancer, six of 16 with renal cancer, four of eight with prostatic cancer, one of seven with cervical cancer and one of six with ovarian cancer. We conclude, an elevated LPH level is frequently observed in blood and tumor tissue from patients with various types of carcinoma.", "contents": "Ectopic production of lipotropin by cancer. Lipotropin (LPH) has been evaluated as a potential tumor marker using a sensitive beta melanocyte-stimulating hormone (beta MSH) radioimmunoassay. All 79 acetic acid extracts of carcinomas of lung, colon, stomach, esophagus and breast contained LPH in concentrations greater than blood; 61 of 79 extracts contained LPH in larger amounts than control tissues from patients without cancer. In a blind prospective study, plasma LPH was quantified in 107 patients admitted for work-up because of an abnormality on a chest roentgenogram. Thirty-one of 33 patients subsequently diagnosed as having benign lesions had plasma LPH within the 95 per cent confidence limits of normal subjects whereas 28 (36 per cent) of the 74 patients subsequently diagnosed histologically as having primary lung carcinoma had elevated levels. In control studies, 13 of 100 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had elevated plasma LPH levels; three of the 13 with elevated levels and four with normal levels have been diagnosed, during the two years of follow-up, as having lung carcinoma. In control studies of 23 patients with granulomatous lung disease, 22 had normal levels of LPH. In those with carcinoma of the colon elevated plasma LPH levels were observed in two of 21 untreated patients and in 11 of 61 patients receiving noncurative chemotherapy. Elevated plasma LPH levels were also observed in 10 of 59 patients with breast cancer, eight of 28 with pancreatic cancer, eight of 22 with gastric or esophageal cancer, six of 16 with renal cancer, four of eight with prostatic cancer, one of seven with cervical cancer and one of six with ovarian cancer. We conclude, an elevated LPH level is frequently observed in blood and tumor tissue from patients with various types of carcinoma.", "PMID": 433967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1867", "title": "Myasthenia gravis, thymectomy and serum thymic hormone activity.", "content": "Serum thymic hormone activity was measured in 36 patients with myasthenia gravis and in 10 control subjects from each age decade. In all 25 patients under 50 years of age results were within, or close to, the normal range. Activity at levels considered normal for juveniles was detected in 10 of the 11 older patients whereas levels normally decline in older subjects. One week after thymectomy, 13 of 17 patients (76 per cent) had no demonstrable serum thymic hormone activity. However, 10 months or longer after thymectomy only five patients (30 per cent) lacked thymic hormone activity in the serum. There was a significant correlation between clinial improvement and sustained lowering of serum thymic hormone activity after thymectomy.", "contents": "Myasthenia gravis, thymectomy and serum thymic hormone activity. Serum thymic hormone activity was measured in 36 patients with myasthenia gravis and in 10 control subjects from each age decade. In all 25 patients under 50 years of age results were within, or close to, the normal range. Activity at levels considered normal for juveniles was detected in 10 of the 11 older patients whereas levels normally decline in older subjects. One week after thymectomy, 13 of 17 patients (76 per cent) had no demonstrable serum thymic hormone activity. However, 10 months or longer after thymectomy only five patients (30 per cent) lacked thymic hormone activity in the serum. There was a significant correlation between clinial improvement and sustained lowering of serum thymic hormone activity after thymectomy.", "PMID": 433968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1868", "title": "Prophylaxis of attacks of hereditary angioedema.", "content": "Danazol, an attentuated androgen, has been suggested as an effective agent for the prophylaxis of attacks of hereditary angioedema. Four patients, with a clinical history of hereditary angioedema and a demonstrated depression of the serum inhibitor of the first component of complement (C1 INH) and the fourth component of complement (C4), were entered into a study to determine the minimum effective dose of this agent. All four of the patients had been experiencing attacks at least monthly, but they had only six attacks during a total of 60 patient months of Danazol therapy. The minimum effective dose varied from 100 to 400 mg/day. The drug appeared to work by increasing the level of serum C1 INH which reached the normal range in two of four patients. Side effects were only the anticipated menstrual irregularities in the female patients. Danazol appears to be an efficacious drug for prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema.", "contents": "Prophylaxis of attacks of hereditary angioedema. Danazol, an attentuated androgen, has been suggested as an effective agent for the prophylaxis of attacks of hereditary angioedema. Four patients, with a clinical history of hereditary angioedema and a demonstrated depression of the serum inhibitor of the first component of complement (C1 INH) and the fourth component of complement (C4), were entered into a study to determine the minimum effective dose of this agent. All four of the patients had been experiencing attacks at least monthly, but they had only six attacks during a total of 60 patient months of Danazol therapy. The minimum effective dose varied from 100 to 400 mg/day. The drug appeared to work by increasing the level of serum C1 INH which reached the normal range in two of four patients. Side effects were only the anticipated menstrual irregularities in the female patients. Danazol appears to be an efficacious drug for prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema.", "PMID": 433971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1869", "title": "Plasmapheresis in the treatment of acute renal failure in multiple myeloma.", "content": "Three patients with multiple myeloma and severe acute renal failure were treated by repeated plasmapheresis. Recovery of renal function was observed in all. The pathogenetic role of light chains and the possible mechanisms responsible for renal damage are discussed. It is suggested that the removal of light chains by plasmapheresis may be of therapeutic value in this condition.", "contents": "Plasmapheresis in the treatment of acute renal failure in multiple myeloma. Three patients with multiple myeloma and severe acute renal failure were treated by repeated plasmapheresis. Recovery of renal function was observed in all. The pathogenetic role of light chains and the possible mechanisms responsible for renal damage are discussed. It is suggested that the removal of light chains by plasmapheresis may be of therapeutic value in this condition.", "PMID": 433972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1870", "title": "Treatment of Goodpasture's syndrome with plasmapheresis. A case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A case is reported of antiglomerular basement membrane antibody-induced Goodpasture's syndrome in which the patient required hemodialysis and was treated with immunosuppressive agents and plasmapheresis. A severe (80 per cent) cresentic lesion was reversed, and creatinine was stabilized at 2.5 mg/dl at one year follow-up. Earlier reports of therapy without plasmapheresis showed that 88 per cent of the patients would either die or require long-term hemodialysis. Fifteen other reported cases of Goodpasture's syndrome in which the patients were treated with plasmapheresis are reviewed. When reported, short-term follow-up showed that nine of these patients were alive without need of dialysis, five wee receiving dialysis, and only two had died. This suggests that plasmaheresis and immunosuppressive therapy may reverse the renal lesion in some patients with Goodpasture's syndrome.", "contents": "Treatment of Goodpasture's syndrome with plasmapheresis. A case report and review of the literature. A case is reported of antiglomerular basement membrane antibody-induced Goodpasture's syndrome in which the patient required hemodialysis and was treated with immunosuppressive agents and plasmapheresis. A severe (80 per cent) cresentic lesion was reversed, and creatinine was stabilized at 2.5 mg/dl at one year follow-up. Earlier reports of therapy without plasmapheresis showed that 88 per cent of the patients would either die or require long-term hemodialysis. Fifteen other reported cases of Goodpasture's syndrome in which the patients were treated with plasmapheresis are reviewed. When reported, short-term follow-up showed that nine of these patients were alive without need of dialysis, five wee receiving dialysis, and only two had died. This suggests that plasmaheresis and immunosuppressive therapy may reverse the renal lesion in some patients with Goodpasture's syndrome.", "PMID": 433973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1871", "title": "Regression of pituitary tumors, a possible effect of bromergocryptine.", "content": "With the advent of the prolactin radioimmunoassay and more sensitive methods of roentgenologic examination, prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors are now being diagnosed with much greater frequency. Definitive treatment has been considered to involve transphenoidal hypophysectomy. The symptoms of hyperprolactinemia including amenorrhea, galactorrhea and infertility can usually be controlled without difficulty by bromergocryptine therapy, but little is known regarding continued tumor growth. Bromergocryptine and other ergot alkaloids have been shown to decrease the production of prolactin and to inhibit the rate of pituitary tumor growth in animal studies. In man, evidence for a similar effect is not as clear. The present study demonstrates tumor regression associated with bromergocryptine therapy in two patients.", "contents": "Regression of pituitary tumors, a possible effect of bromergocryptine. With the advent of the prolactin radioimmunoassay and more sensitive methods of roentgenologic examination, prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors are now being diagnosed with much greater frequency. Definitive treatment has been considered to involve transphenoidal hypophysectomy. The symptoms of hyperprolactinemia including amenorrhea, galactorrhea and infertility can usually be controlled without difficulty by bromergocryptine therapy, but little is known regarding continued tumor growth. Bromergocryptine and other ergot alkaloids have been shown to decrease the production of prolactin and to inhibit the rate of pituitary tumor growth in animal studies. In man, evidence for a similar effect is not as clear. The present study demonstrates tumor regression associated with bromergocryptine therapy in two patients.", "PMID": 433974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1872", "title": "Severe mycoplasma pneumonia with pleural effusions in a patient with sickle cell-hemoglobin C(SC) disease. Case report and review of the literature.", "content": "We describe a patient with sickle cell hemoglobin C(SC) disease in whom severe pneumonia developed complicated by large bilateral pleural effusions and respiratory failure. Mycoplasma infection was not initially suspected but was subsequently proved serologically. The course of the illness was unusually long. A review of the literature showed occurrence of large pleural effusions to be infrequent for pulmonary infection with Mycoplasma in adults, with only eight such cases previously reported. The possibility of Mycoplasma pneumonia should not be dismissed merely because of the severity of the illness or the presence of pleural effusions.", "contents": "Severe mycoplasma pneumonia with pleural effusions in a patient with sickle cell-hemoglobin C(SC) disease. Case report and review of the literature. We describe a patient with sickle cell hemoglobin C(SC) disease in whom severe pneumonia developed complicated by large bilateral pleural effusions and respiratory failure. Mycoplasma infection was not initially suspected but was subsequently proved serologically. The course of the illness was unusually long. A review of the literature showed occurrence of large pleural effusions to be infrequent for pulmonary infection with Mycoplasma in adults, with only eight such cases previously reported. The possibility of Mycoplasma pneumonia should not be dismissed merely because of the severity of the illness or the presence of pleural effusions.", "PMID": 433975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1873", "title": "The treatment of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome with inhibitors of platelet function.", "content": "In four patients with clinical and laboratory manifestations of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome, the administration of aspirin and dipyridamole was associated with a dramatic and rapid increase in the platelet count. In three of the four patients there was also improvement in neurologic or renal function. No subject experienced bleeding or other untoward effects. We conclude that a trial of aspirin and dipyridamole therapy is warranted early in the course of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome.", "contents": "The treatment of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome with inhibitors of platelet function. In four patients with clinical and laboratory manifestations of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome, the administration of aspirin and dipyridamole was associated with a dramatic and rapid increase in the platelet count. In three of the four patients there was also improvement in neurologic or renal function. No subject experienced bleeding or other untoward effects. We conclude that a trial of aspirin and dipyridamole therapy is warranted early in the course of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome.", "PMID": 433976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1874", "title": "Evaluation of SICKLEQUIK, a differential solubility test for hemoglobin S.", "content": "Researchers evaluated a differential tube solubility test's ability to detect Hemoglobin S (Hb S) in sickle cell conditions. Six hundred twenty-nine blood samples, including 190 S hemoglobinopathies, were used to assess test performance. Alkaline cellulose acetate electrophoresis was used to confirm all results. The test correctly indicated the presence of Hb S in every case in which Hb S was found on electrophoresis. Six of the 198 specimens containing Hb S incorrectly differentiated the heterozygous from the homozygous state (two with Hb AS, three with Hb SF, and one with Hb SC). Electrophoresis later showed four of these samples to be inappropriate for solubility testing. Three of these specimens contained Hb SF and the other specimen contained Hb SC. One specimen from a patient with polycythemia gave a false positive result. Results were compared using different methods of centrifugation. This solubility test was found to be dependable as a screening method provided the manufacturer's directions are followed and all positive results are confirmed by electrophoresis.", "contents": "Evaluation of SICKLEQUIK, a differential solubility test for hemoglobin S. Researchers evaluated a differential tube solubility test's ability to detect Hemoglobin S (Hb S) in sickle cell conditions. Six hundred twenty-nine blood samples, including 190 S hemoglobinopathies, were used to assess test performance. Alkaline cellulose acetate electrophoresis was used to confirm all results. The test correctly indicated the presence of Hb S in every case in which Hb S was found on electrophoresis. Six of the 198 specimens containing Hb S incorrectly differentiated the heterozygous from the homozygous state (two with Hb AS, three with Hb SF, and one with Hb SC). Electrophoresis later showed four of these samples to be inappropriate for solubility testing. Three of these specimens contained Hb SF and the other specimen contained Hb SC. One specimen from a patient with polycythemia gave a false positive result. Results were compared using different methods of centrifugation. This solubility test was found to be dependable as a screening method provided the manufacturer's directions are followed and all positive results are confirmed by electrophoresis.", "PMID": 433978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1875", "title": "Experience in the laboratory detection of the carrier state of classic hemophilia.", "content": "The predictive odds for suspected carriers of hemophilia have been calculated using data derived from normal and known carrier populations. For each individual, the concentration of Factor VIII-related antigen and Factor VIII biological (procoagulant) activity was measured and the data were studied by linear discriminant analysis. Forty-five suspected carriers were evaluated, with 31 percent (14/45) classified as carriers. Using Factor VIII procoagulant activity alone, 18 percent (8/45) appeared as carriers, while the ratio method of activity level to antigen level showed 44 percent (20/45).", "contents": "Experience in the laboratory detection of the carrier state of classic hemophilia. The predictive odds for suspected carriers of hemophilia have been calculated using data derived from normal and known carrier populations. For each individual, the concentration of Factor VIII-related antigen and Factor VIII biological (procoagulant) activity was measured and the data were studied by linear discriminant analysis. Forty-five suspected carriers were evaluated, with 31 percent (14/45) classified as carriers. Using Factor VIII procoagulant activity alone, 18 percent (8/45) appeared as carriers, while the ratio method of activity level to antigen level showed 44 percent (20/45).", "PMID": 433979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1876", "title": "An unexpected albumin-bilirubin band in cellulose acetate electrophoresis for alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes.", "content": "In 4 out of 202 consecutive electrophoretic patterns for serum alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes, an extra band was observed in the albumin zone. Subsequent heat inactivation tests and comparison studies with an albumin-based bilirubin standard indicated that the band was due to staining of an albumin-bilirubin complex. The band should not be mistaken for an isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase.", "contents": "An unexpected albumin-bilirubin band in cellulose acetate electrophoresis for alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes. In 4 out of 202 consecutive electrophoretic patterns for serum alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes, an extra band was observed in the albumin zone. Subsequent heat inactivation tests and comparison studies with an albumin-based bilirubin standard indicated that the band was due to staining of an albumin-bilirubin complex. The band should not be mistaken for an isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase.", "PMID": 433980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1877", "title": "Follow-up of intrauterine transfused surviving children.", "content": "The long-term effects of intrauterine transfusion (IUT) are still being assessed since the procedure was first reported in 1963. Therefore, we undertook a follow-up study on the survivors of 57 infants who received IUT's between 1966 and 1975. Forty-two infants were born alive, but 15 died in the neonatal period. Overall survival was 27/57 (48%). An extensive follow-up examination was carried out at age 22 months to 10 years in 21/27 survivors. Height was below the third percentile in one child and head circumference above the mean and 2 SD in another. Of 21 children, 19 had normal vision, one was slightly myopic, and one had hyperopia. One child had unilateral high-frequency hearing loss. All had normal EEG's and none have mental retardation but 2/21 have \"major\" and 6/21 have \"minor\" neurologic signs. No evidence of passive antibody transfer was found, but minor disturbances of immunoglobulin levels were present.", "contents": "Follow-up of intrauterine transfused surviving children. The long-term effects of intrauterine transfusion (IUT) are still being assessed since the procedure was first reported in 1963. Therefore, we undertook a follow-up study on the survivors of 57 infants who received IUT's between 1966 and 1975. Forty-two infants were born alive, but 15 died in the neonatal period. Overall survival was 27/57 (48%). An extensive follow-up examination was carried out at age 22 months to 10 years in 21/27 survivors. Height was below the third percentile in one child and head circumference above the mean and 2 SD in another. Of 21 children, 19 had normal vision, one was slightly myopic, and one had hyperopia. One child had unilateral high-frequency hearing loss. All had normal EEG's and none have mental retardation but 2/21 have \"major\" and 6/21 have \"minor\" neurologic signs. No evidence of passive antibody transfer was found, but minor disturbances of immunoglobulin levels were present.", "PMID": 433982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1878", "title": "Human fetal breathing activity during electively induced labor at term.", "content": "Human fetal breathing movements were measured during the first stage of electively induced labor in 20 healthy term pregnancies. Fetuses made breathing movements 25.6% of the time during a 1 hour control period and breathing decreased significantly to 8.3% during latent-phase labor and further decreased to 0.8% during active labor (P less than 0.001). Patterns of increased fetal breathing activity accompanied by increased gross fetal body movements and increased fetal heart rate variability for periods of 20 to 60 minutes out of every 1.0 to 1.5 hours were observed, and the intermittent patterns of increased body movement and heart rate variability continued throughout the first stage of labor despite the decrease in fetal breathing activity during latent- and active-phase labor. It will be important to account for rest activity patterns when interpreting variability of heart rate during labor. The absence of fetal breathing activity during electively induced labor at term is not a clinical indicator of fetal ill health.", "contents": "Human fetal breathing activity during electively induced labor at term. Human fetal breathing movements were measured during the first stage of electively induced labor in 20 healthy term pregnancies. Fetuses made breathing movements 25.6% of the time during a 1 hour control period and breathing decreased significantly to 8.3% during latent-phase labor and further decreased to 0.8% during active labor (P less than 0.001). Patterns of increased fetal breathing activity accompanied by increased gross fetal body movements and increased fetal heart rate variability for periods of 20 to 60 minutes out of every 1.0 to 1.5 hours were observed, and the intermittent patterns of increased body movement and heart rate variability continued throughout the first stage of labor despite the decrease in fetal breathing activity during latent- and active-phase labor. It will be important to account for rest activity patterns when interpreting variability of heart rate during labor. The absence of fetal breathing activity during electively induced labor at term is not a clinical indicator of fetal ill health.", "PMID": 433983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1879", "title": "Effect of danazol on estradiol-17beta and progesterone secretion by porcine ovarian cells in vitro.", "content": "The effect of danazol on progesterone (P4) and estradiol-17 beta (E2) secretion by cultured porcine granulosa cells was studied. Danazol markedly inhibited both basal and luteinizing hormone (LH)-stimulated P4 secretion by both granulosa and luteal cells in a dose-dependent manner during 24 hour culture periods. E2 secretion by granulosa cells was low (less than 3 ng/mg of protein) when cultured in the absence of an exogenous aromatizable substrate but was markedly increased when testosterone (T) was added to the media. Danazol inhibited E2 secretion by granulosa cells only when cultured in the presence of testosterone. E2 secretion by luteal cells was low even in the presence of testosterone and was not affected by danazol. These findings support the hypothesis that danazol can directly inhibit ovarian steroidogenesis independently of its inhibitory action on gonadotropin secretion.", "contents": "Effect of danazol on estradiol-17beta and progesterone secretion by porcine ovarian cells in vitro. The effect of danazol on progesterone (P4) and estradiol-17 beta (E2) secretion by cultured porcine granulosa cells was studied. Danazol markedly inhibited both basal and luteinizing hormone (LH)-stimulated P4 secretion by both granulosa and luteal cells in a dose-dependent manner during 24 hour culture periods. E2 secretion by granulosa cells was low (less than 3 ng/mg of protein) when cultured in the absence of an exogenous aromatizable substrate but was markedly increased when testosterone (T) was added to the media. Danazol inhibited E2 secretion by granulosa cells only when cultured in the presence of testosterone. E2 secretion by luteal cells was low even in the presence of testosterone and was not affected by danazol. These findings support the hypothesis that danazol can directly inhibit ovarian steroidogenesis independently of its inhibitory action on gonadotropin secretion.", "PMID": 433984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1880", "title": "Experience in treating two hundred and eighty-eight patients with endometrial carcinoma from 1968 to 1972.", "content": "The results in treatment of 288 patients with endometrial carcinoma (1968 to 1972) were compared to results achieved in a similar series of 236 patients (1962 to 1967) at The University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The overall 5 year survival rate for the 524 patients was 76.1% (75.4% when Stage 0 is excluded), with generally better results in the more recent series except in treating Stage II disease. The overall 5 year survival rate for Stage I disease in the more recent series was 89.1%. Parameters for assessing a prognosis and management plan are indicated, with emphasis on the identification of high-risk Stage I cases.", "contents": "Experience in treating two hundred and eighty-eight patients with endometrial carcinoma from 1968 to 1972. The results in treatment of 288 patients with endometrial carcinoma (1968 to 1972) were compared to results achieved in a similar series of 236 patients (1962 to 1967) at The University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The overall 5 year survival rate for the 524 patients was 76.1% (75.4% when Stage 0 is excluded), with generally better results in the more recent series except in treating Stage II disease. The overall 5 year survival rate for Stage I disease in the more recent series was 89.1%. Parameters for assessing a prognosis and management plan are indicated, with emphasis on the identification of high-risk Stage I cases.", "PMID": 433985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1881", "title": "Overt diabetes in pregnancy.", "content": "Of 45 diabetic pregnancies, 80% were Class C, D, or R. The perinatal mortality rate was 4.4% (corrected 2.2%); however, neonatal morbidity was high. Of the infants, 28% developed respiratory distress syndrome (RDS); 18%, asphyxia; and 42%, hypoglycemia. Thus, the woman with overt diabetes needs delivery in an institution where neonatal expertise and modern neonatal facilities exist. Of the mother 28% had a family history that was negative for diabetes mellitus. Four neonates developed RDS despite mature lecithin/sphingomyelin ratios.", "contents": "Overt diabetes in pregnancy. Of 45 diabetic pregnancies, 80% were Class C, D, or R. The perinatal mortality rate was 4.4% (corrected 2.2%); however, neonatal morbidity was high. Of the infants, 28% developed respiratory distress syndrome (RDS); 18%, asphyxia; and 42%, hypoglycemia. Thus, the woman with overt diabetes needs delivery in an institution where neonatal expertise and modern neonatal facilities exist. Of the mother 28% had a family history that was negative for diabetes mellitus. Four neonates developed RDS despite mature lecithin/sphingomyelin ratios.", "PMID": 433987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1882", "title": "The clinical prediction of intrauterine growth retardation.", "content": "From a total study group of 8,030 deliveries, 2,788 patients with risk factors and 292 representative patients from the 5,242 patients without risk factors were selected for detailed analysis of predictors of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Two thirds of the IUGR infants came from the population with risk factors and a weighting was assigned to individual risk factors. One third of the IUGR infants came from the population without risk factors, and their mothers demonstrated significantly differing maternal characteristics from those with a normally grown infant. The perinatal mortality rate was higher in the IUGR group and particularly in the population with risk factors.", "contents": "The clinical prediction of intrauterine growth retardation. From a total study group of 8,030 deliveries, 2,788 patients with risk factors and 292 representative patients from the 5,242 patients without risk factors were selected for detailed analysis of predictors of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Two thirds of the IUGR infants came from the population with risk factors and a weighting was assigned to individual risk factors. One third of the IUGR infants came from the population without risk factors, and their mothers demonstrated significantly differing maternal characteristics from those with a normally grown infant. The perinatal mortality rate was higher in the IUGR group and particularly in the population with risk factors.", "PMID": 433988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1883", "title": "Natural history of placenta previa ascertained by diagnostic ultrasound.", "content": "Placental localization by diagnostic ultrasound was performed at 16 to 18 weeks' gestation in 1,098 patients prior to amniocentesis for genetic indications. Placenta previa was diagnosed in 58 patients, 47 of whom went on to delivery uncomplicated by placenta previa. There were five patients with placenta previa at delivery, four of whom had third-trimester bleeding. One patient was diagnosed as having a normal placental implantation at midtrimester but placenta previa was demonstrated at delivery. The incidence of placenta previa at 16 to 18 weeks' was 5.3% and fell to 0.58% at delivery, indicating a 90% conversion rate. Thus the vast majority of cases of asymptomatic placenta previa remain so and convert before delivery. These patients should be observed with serial ultrasound at 6 to 8 week intervals until delivery or unequivocal conversion. No restriction in activity seems indicated unless the placenta previa persists beyond 30 weeks or becomes clinically manifest.", "contents": "Natural history of placenta previa ascertained by diagnostic ultrasound. Placental localization by diagnostic ultrasound was performed at 16 to 18 weeks' gestation in 1,098 patients prior to amniocentesis for genetic indications. Placenta previa was diagnosed in 58 patients, 47 of whom went on to delivery uncomplicated by placenta previa. There were five patients with placenta previa at delivery, four of whom had third-trimester bleeding. One patient was diagnosed as having a normal placental implantation at midtrimester but placenta previa was demonstrated at delivery. The incidence of placenta previa at 16 to 18 weeks' was 5.3% and fell to 0.58% at delivery, indicating a 90% conversion rate. Thus the vast majority of cases of asymptomatic placenta previa remain so and convert before delivery. These patients should be observed with serial ultrasound at 6 to 8 week intervals until delivery or unequivocal conversion. No restriction in activity seems indicated unless the placenta previa persists beyond 30 weeks or becomes clinically manifest.", "PMID": 433989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1884", "title": "Marlex gauze hammock sling operation with Cooper's ligament attachment in the management of recurrent urinary stress incontinence.", "content": "In 1970 Morgan described an operation designed to meet the problem created by scarring and fibrosis resulting from previous operative procedures to the urethra and bladder neck. In the method, a 2 cm wide polypropylene (Marlex) mesh is placed as a broad hammock to elevate and support the urethrovesical junction with lateral attachment at Cooper's ligament. Sixty-nine women operated upon by Morgan's technique have been followed up for 6 months to 8 years. In those with unmixed stress incontinence, 90% were dry at follow-up, whereas in those with a mixture of stress incontinence and symptoms of detrusor disturbance, only 50% were benefited.", "contents": "Marlex gauze hammock sling operation with Cooper's ligament attachment in the management of recurrent urinary stress incontinence. In 1970 Morgan described an operation designed to meet the problem created by scarring and fibrosis resulting from previous operative procedures to the urethra and bladder neck. In the method, a 2 cm wide polypropylene (Marlex) mesh is placed as a broad hammock to elevate and support the urethrovesical junction with lateral attachment at Cooper's ligament. Sixty-nine women operated upon by Morgan's technique have been followed up for 6 months to 8 years. In those with unmixed stress incontinence, 90% were dry at follow-up, whereas in those with a mixture of stress incontinence and symptoms of detrusor disturbance, only 50% were benefited.", "PMID": 433990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1885", "title": "Amniotic fluid lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio, palmitic acid, palmitic acid/stearic acid ratio, total cortisol, creatinine, and percentage of lipid-positive cells in assessment of fetal maturity and fetal pulmonary maturity: a comparison.", "content": "Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio, creatinine, percentage of lipid-positive cells, palmitic acid, palmitic acid/stearic acid (P/S) ratio, and total cortisol were analyzed as tests for fetal maturity and fetal pulmonary maturity in 164 samples of amniotic fluid from 121 patients. Fifty samples were taken within 72 hours of delivery. The best tests for fetal maturity (37 weeks) with differential percentages were L/S ratio, palmitic acid, and P/S ratio. In the assessment of fetal pulmonary maturity, we studied an additional 174 samples in which only L/S ratio, creatinine, and lipid-positive cells were analyzed. All tests showed a high predictive value of an immature (positive) result was much less for all six parameters; the three best tests were total cortisol (33%), lipid-positive cells (26%) and L/S ratio (14%).", "contents": "Amniotic fluid lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio, palmitic acid, palmitic acid/stearic acid ratio, total cortisol, creatinine, and percentage of lipid-positive cells in assessment of fetal maturity and fetal pulmonary maturity: a comparison. Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio, creatinine, percentage of lipid-positive cells, palmitic acid, palmitic acid/stearic acid (P/S) ratio, and total cortisol were analyzed as tests for fetal maturity and fetal pulmonary maturity in 164 samples of amniotic fluid from 121 patients. Fifty samples were taken within 72 hours of delivery. The best tests for fetal maturity (37 weeks) with differential percentages were L/S ratio, palmitic acid, and P/S ratio. In the assessment of fetal pulmonary maturity, we studied an additional 174 samples in which only L/S ratio, creatinine, and lipid-positive cells were analyzed. All tests showed a high predictive value of an immature (positive) result was much less for all six parameters; the three best tests were total cortisol (33%), lipid-positive cells (26%) and L/S ratio (14%).", "PMID": 433991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1886", "title": "Ultrastructural basis for maintenance and termination of pregnancy.", "content": "Myometrial tissues from guinea pigs, sheep, and human subjects at various stages of gestation and postpartum were quantitatively examined in the electron microscope for the presence of gap junctions between muscle cells. Gap junctions were found in tissues from guinea pigs and sheep which were being delivered or ready to be delivered and in tissues taken immediately post partum. Gap junctions were also present in 19 tissues obtained from 69 women undergoing elective or emergency cesarean section for a variety of reasons. The frequency of their occurrence varies in relation to the presence or absence of labor and other conditions. We propose that gap junctions are required for effective muscle contractions leading to termination of pregnancy in all animals, including human beings. The absence of gap junctions throughout gestation may be necessary for maintenance of pregnancy and the premature appearance of the cell contacts may lead to premature labor.", "contents": "Ultrastructural basis for maintenance and termination of pregnancy. Myometrial tissues from guinea pigs, sheep, and human subjects at various stages of gestation and postpartum were quantitatively examined in the electron microscope for the presence of gap junctions between muscle cells. Gap junctions were found in tissues from guinea pigs and sheep which were being delivered or ready to be delivered and in tissues taken immediately post partum. Gap junctions were also present in 19 tissues obtained from 69 women undergoing elective or emergency cesarean section for a variety of reasons. The frequency of their occurrence varies in relation to the presence or absence of labor and other conditions. We propose that gap junctions are required for effective muscle contractions leading to termination of pregnancy in all animals, including human beings. The absence of gap junctions throughout gestation may be necessary for maintenance of pregnancy and the premature appearance of the cell contacts may lead to premature labor.", "PMID": 433992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1887", "title": "Plasma prolactin, human chorionic gonadotropin, estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone in the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.", "content": "Plasma prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone, but not HCG-beta levels, were higher in a patient who developed the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome while undergoing ovulation induction with human gonadotropins than in two other women who also became pregnant after similar treatment without complications. These results suggest that hyperprolactinema, in association with elevated ovarian steroid levels, may be factors in the pathogenesis of this disorder.", "contents": "Plasma prolactin, human chorionic gonadotropin, estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone in the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Plasma prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone, but not HCG-beta levels, were higher in a patient who developed the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome while undergoing ovulation induction with human gonadotropins than in two other women who also became pregnant after similar treatment without complications. These results suggest that hyperprolactinema, in association with elevated ovarian steroid levels, may be factors in the pathogenesis of this disorder.", "PMID": 433993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1888", "title": "Sterilization and contraceptive services in Catholic hospitals.", "content": "Sterilization and contraceptive practices in United States Catholic hospitals were surveyed by anonymous mail questionnaires, obtaining a 57% response rate (340 of 598). Twenty per cent of the hospitals permitted medically indicated sterilization operations. Forty-seven per cent of those hospitals not allowing sterilization procedures reported that their medical staffs were interested in performing medically indicated sterilizations. The types of contraceptive services offered varied widely. The rhythm method was most frequently available, with oral contraceptives in second place; many hospitals did not provide any family-planning services; 13% utilized all types of contraception. The thesis is advanced that improvement in availability of sterilization and contraceptive services is a duty of hospital medical staffs.", "contents": "Sterilization and contraceptive services in Catholic hospitals. Sterilization and contraceptive practices in United States Catholic hospitals were surveyed by anonymous mail questionnaires, obtaining a 57% response rate (340 of 598). Twenty per cent of the hospitals permitted medically indicated sterilization operations. Forty-seven per cent of those hospitals not allowing sterilization procedures reported that their medical staffs were interested in performing medically indicated sterilizations. The types of contraceptive services offered varied widely. The rhythm method was most frequently available, with oral contraceptives in second place; many hospitals did not provide any family-planning services; 13% utilized all types of contraception. The thesis is advanced that improvement in availability of sterilization and contraceptive services is a duty of hospital medical staffs.", "PMID": 433994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1889", "title": "The obstetrician, fetal asphyxia, and cerebral palsy.", "content": "In the current legal climate, the recognition of cerebral palsy or other major brain dysfunction in a child is likely to lead to a malpractice action against the obstetrician who delivered the child. Perinatal asphyxia is usually considered the most likely cause of the brain damage, and the obstetrician is presumed by the lawyer either to have failed to recognize the fetal asphyxia or to have ignored it. In this essay, the illogic in this reasoning is discussed. While fetal asphyxia clearly can cause fetal brain damage, the infrequency of this relationship is stressed. The dilemma faced by the obstetrician as a result of modern perinatal care is discussed.", "contents": "The obstetrician, fetal asphyxia, and cerebral palsy. In the current legal climate, the recognition of cerebral palsy or other major brain dysfunction in a child is likely to lead to a malpractice action against the obstetrician who delivered the child. Perinatal asphyxia is usually considered the most likely cause of the brain damage, and the obstetrician is presumed by the lawyer either to have failed to recognize the fetal asphyxia or to have ignored it. In this essay, the illogic in this reasoning is discussed. While fetal asphyxia clearly can cause fetal brain damage, the infrequency of this relationship is stressed. The dilemma faced by the obstetrician as a result of modern perinatal care is discussed.", "PMID": 433995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1890", "title": "Postoperative bladder training.", "content": "A group of 87 women who had either a retropubic suspension or anterior colporraphy with or without hysterectomy were studied to determine an optimal method of postoperative bladder training to facilitate recovery of normal bladder function. All patients received suprapubic catheters but 43 women had their catheters on constant open drainage while the remaining 44 patients were placed on an intermittent clamping regimen which was begun on the first postoperative day. The method of catheter management was selected randomly. Subgroups based on the operative procedure performed, patient age, and the presence or absence of postoperative infection were examined. In all groups of patients studied, those undergoing early intermittent clamping resumed normal micturition earlier than those who did not. It is recommended that this technique be utilized routinely in this group of patients to shorten the interval of time during which bladder drainage is required.", "contents": "Postoperative bladder training. A group of 87 women who had either a retropubic suspension or anterior colporraphy with or without hysterectomy were studied to determine an optimal method of postoperative bladder training to facilitate recovery of normal bladder function. All patients received suprapubic catheters but 43 women had their catheters on constant open drainage while the remaining 44 patients were placed on an intermittent clamping regimen which was begun on the first postoperative day. The method of catheter management was selected randomly. Subgroups based on the operative procedure performed, patient age, and the presence or absence of postoperative infection were examined. In all groups of patients studied, those undergoing early intermittent clamping resumed normal micturition earlier than those who did not. It is recommended that this technique be utilized routinely in this group of patients to shorten the interval of time during which bladder drainage is required.", "PMID": 433996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1891", "title": "Carbon dioxide versus electronic urethrocystometry for the detection of detrusor dyssynergia.", "content": "The reliability of rapid-fill carbon dioxide urethrocystometry in detecting detrusor dyssynergia was compared with the more physiologic method of electronic urethrocystometry. Fifty female patients who had urinary incontinence were studied. All patients with abnormal electronic studies had abnormal studies with carbon dioxide. Ten patients with normal electronic studies had an abnormal response to carbon dioxide and 40 per cent of these patients responded well to anticholinergic agents, indicating that carbon dioxide may be more sensitive in detecting mild forms of detrusor dysfunction that are medically treatable. Complete urodynamic assessment is recommended in conjunction with carbon dioxide urethrocystometry.", "contents": "Carbon dioxide versus electronic urethrocystometry for the detection of detrusor dyssynergia. The reliability of rapid-fill carbon dioxide urethrocystometry in detecting detrusor dyssynergia was compared with the more physiologic method of electronic urethrocystometry. Fifty female patients who had urinary incontinence were studied. All patients with abnormal electronic studies had abnormal studies with carbon dioxide. Ten patients with normal electronic studies had an abnormal response to carbon dioxide and 40 per cent of these patients responded well to anticholinergic agents, indicating that carbon dioxide may be more sensitive in detecting mild forms of detrusor dysfunction that are medically treatable. Complete urodynamic assessment is recommended in conjunction with carbon dioxide urethrocystometry.", "PMID": 433997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1892", "title": "Preoperative hot conization of the cervix: a possible method to reduce postoperative febrile morbidity following vaginal hysterectomy.", "content": "Laboratory results indicate that the endocervix may be a source of bacterial contamination when vaginal hysterectomy is performed. In a series of 160 consecutive vaginal hysterectomies in premenopausal women, hot conization of the cervix was performed prior to the scrub with an iodophore. No preoperative antibiotics were used in this series. The postoperative febrile morbidity rate was 4.3 per cent and the average stay was 4.5 days. These results are compared with those of three other groups: (1) patients who received a three-dose parenteral prophylactic antibiotic course with the first dose two hours prior to surgery had a febrile morbidity rate of 8.6 per cent. (2) In patients who had prophylactic antibiotics for five days with the first dose given intraoperatively, the febrile morbidity rate was 10.1 per cent. (3) The febrile morbidity rate in the group with no antibiotic prophylaxis or hot conization was 49.1 per cent. Laboratory and clinical data suggest that preoperative conization may be effective in the reduction of postoperative febrile morbidity.", "contents": "Preoperative hot conization of the cervix: a possible method to reduce postoperative febrile morbidity following vaginal hysterectomy. Laboratory results indicate that the endocervix may be a source of bacterial contamination when vaginal hysterectomy is performed. In a series of 160 consecutive vaginal hysterectomies in premenopausal women, hot conization of the cervix was performed prior to the scrub with an iodophore. No preoperative antibiotics were used in this series. The postoperative febrile morbidity rate was 4.3 per cent and the average stay was 4.5 days. These results are compared with those of three other groups: (1) patients who received a three-dose parenteral prophylactic antibiotic course with the first dose two hours prior to surgery had a febrile morbidity rate of 8.6 per cent. (2) In patients who had prophylactic antibiotics for five days with the first dose given intraoperatively, the febrile morbidity rate was 10.1 per cent. (3) The febrile morbidity rate in the group with no antibiotic prophylaxis or hot conization was 49.1 per cent. Laboratory and clinical data suggest that preoperative conization may be effective in the reduction of postoperative febrile morbidity.", "PMID": 433998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1893", "title": "Remission of uterine leiomyosarcomas treated with vincristine, Adriamycin, and dimethyl-triazeno-imidazole carboximide.", "content": "Six patients with metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma have been treated with the combination of vincristine, Adriamycin, and DTIC. Complete remissions were obtained in three patients and a partial remission in a fourth. The average duration of response was 15.6 months and one patient is free of disease at 24 months. Severe nausea and vomiting caused discontinuance of chemotherapy in two patients.", "contents": "Remission of uterine leiomyosarcomas treated with vincristine, Adriamycin, and dimethyl-triazeno-imidazole carboximide. Six patients with metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma have been treated with the combination of vincristine, Adriamycin, and DTIC. Complete remissions were obtained in three patients and a partial remission in a fourth. The average duration of response was 15.6 months and one patient is free of disease at 24 months. Severe nausea and vomiting caused discontinuance of chemotherapy in two patients.", "PMID": 433999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1894", "title": "A reassessment of the fractional postcoital test.", "content": "The present investigation was designed to reassess the fractional postcoital test (PCT). Specifically, the study addressed the question of whether the internal cervical mucus sperm count is significantly different from the sperm counts at other cervical levels. By means of standardized methodology, 25 normal postcoital tests were perfoemed on 22 couples. Cervical mucus from three different levels within the endocervical canal was examined for total count, motility, and sperm morphology. No significant difference could be found in these three parameters among any of the cervical levels (p greater than 0.05). Significantly fewer abnormal sperm were found in the cervical mucus when compared to the total abnormal forms in the semen (p less than 0.001). Therefore, while the fractional PCT is a reflection of cervical sperm, this study indicates that the three different cervical levels in the fractional PCT (internal-mid-external) are equally effective in the interpretation of the postcoital test.", "contents": "A reassessment of the fractional postcoital test. The present investigation was designed to reassess the fractional postcoital test (PCT). Specifically, the study addressed the question of whether the internal cervical mucus sperm count is significantly different from the sperm counts at other cervical levels. By means of standardized methodology, 25 normal postcoital tests were perfoemed on 22 couples. Cervical mucus from three different levels within the endocervical canal was examined for total count, motility, and sperm morphology. No significant difference could be found in these three parameters among any of the cervical levels (p greater than 0.05). Significantly fewer abnormal sperm were found in the cervical mucus when compared to the total abnormal forms in the semen (p less than 0.001). Therefore, while the fractional PCT is a reflection of cervical sperm, this study indicates that the three different cervical levels in the fractional PCT (internal-mid-external) are equally effective in the interpretation of the postcoital test.", "PMID": 434000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1895", "title": "A blocking factor in amniotic fluid causing leukocyte migration enhancement.", "content": "Amniotic fluid was found to cause significant leukocyte migration enhancement during the second and third trimester of pregnancy and in the early postpartum period when compared to the migration area obtained with an ovarian tumor homogenate antigen (p less than 0.01), choriocarcinoma spent medium (p less than 0.01), and placental pool homogenate (p less than 0.01). Only borderline significance (p less than 0.1) was obtained when migration enhancement with AF was compared between pregnant and nonpregnant female control patients, indicating minimal unspecific activity of AF. Migration enhancement with autologous amniotic fluid was slightly larger than with homologous amniotic fluid, but the difference did not reach significance (p less than 0.4). None of the control antigens caused migration enhancement; placental pool homogenate in concentrations above 4 mg. per cent caused migration inhibition but did not in lower concentrations. The enhancing effect of AF could be abolished by dilution but not by addition of excessive antibody to estrogen of HCG. It is suggested that a blocking factor is present in AF preventing recognition of fetoplacental antigen by the maternal immune system. Thus in vitro leukocyte migration enhancement may correlate to in vivo graft enhancement.", "contents": "A blocking factor in amniotic fluid causing leukocyte migration enhancement. Amniotic fluid was found to cause significant leukocyte migration enhancement during the second and third trimester of pregnancy and in the early postpartum period when compared to the migration area obtained with an ovarian tumor homogenate antigen (p less than 0.01), choriocarcinoma spent medium (p less than 0.01), and placental pool homogenate (p less than 0.01). Only borderline significance (p less than 0.1) was obtained when migration enhancement with AF was compared between pregnant and nonpregnant female control patients, indicating minimal unspecific activity of AF. Migration enhancement with autologous amniotic fluid was slightly larger than with homologous amniotic fluid, but the difference did not reach significance (p less than 0.4). None of the control antigens caused migration enhancement; placental pool homogenate in concentrations above 4 mg. per cent caused migration inhibition but did not in lower concentrations. The enhancing effect of AF could be abolished by dilution but not by addition of excessive antibody to estrogen of HCG. It is suggested that a blocking factor is present in AF preventing recognition of fetoplacental antigen by the maternal immune system. Thus in vitro leukocyte migration enhancement may correlate to in vivo graft enhancement.", "PMID": 434001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1896", "title": "Cesarean section in California--1960 through 1975.", "content": "The cesarean section rate has been rising in California since 1965. In this article, we describe the trend in cesarean section rates in California from 1960 to 1975 in relation to maternal and infant variables. Approximately proportionate increases in cesarean section rates by infant birth weight and maternal race were found. Cesarean section rates for women under 20 years of age and for those of first parity have risen proportionately more than rates for other age and parity groups. We also found that cesarean section rates for births at gestational age's exceeding 42 weeks have risen proportionately more than rates for births at other gestational ages. Maternal mortality ratios associated with cesarean section were twice those associated with noncesarean births for the years 1973, 1974, and 1975. Possible explanations of the current cesarean section rate include an increase in indications for the procedure, use of the fetal monitor, and the current medical-legal climate. The potential problems that cesarean section may create for the mother and infant are higher rates of iatrogenic prematurity and respiratory distress and of maternal morbidity and mortality.", "contents": "Cesarean section in California--1960 through 1975. The cesarean section rate has been rising in California since 1965. In this article, we describe the trend in cesarean section rates in California from 1960 to 1975 in relation to maternal and infant variables. Approximately proportionate increases in cesarean section rates by infant birth weight and maternal race were found. Cesarean section rates for women under 20 years of age and for those of first parity have risen proportionately more than rates for other age and parity groups. We also found that cesarean section rates for births at gestational age's exceeding 42 weeks have risen proportionately more than rates for births at other gestational ages. Maternal mortality ratios associated with cesarean section were twice those associated with noncesarean births for the years 1973, 1974, and 1975. Possible explanations of the current cesarean section rate include an increase in indications for the procedure, use of the fetal monitor, and the current medical-legal climate. The potential problems that cesarean section may create for the mother and infant are higher rates of iatrogenic prematurity and respiratory distress and of maternal morbidity and mortality.", "PMID": 434002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1897", "title": "Sudden collapse and death of women obtaining abortions induced with prostaglandin F2alpha.", "content": "Two recent cases of sudden collapse and eventual death of the woman after induction of abortion with prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) have been reported to the Center for Disease Control as part of the epidemiologic surveillance of deaths due to abortion. We present these cases in order to document this event associated with the use of PGF2alpha. The etiology of the sudden collapse is still unknown. Nonetheless, the deaths of these two healthy young women undergoing induced abortions with PGF2alpha should heighten clinicians' awareness of some possible risks associated with these new abortifacients.", "contents": "Sudden collapse and death of women obtaining abortions induced with prostaglandin F2alpha. Two recent cases of sudden collapse and eventual death of the woman after induction of abortion with prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) have been reported to the Center for Disease Control as part of the epidemiologic surveillance of deaths due to abortion. We present these cases in order to document this event associated with the use of PGF2alpha. The etiology of the sudden collapse is still unknown. Nonetheless, the deaths of these two healthy young women undergoing induced abortions with PGF2alpha should heighten clinicians' awareness of some possible risks associated with these new abortifacients.", "PMID": 434003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1898", "title": "Analysis for amniotic fluid crystallization in second-trimester amniocentesis.", "content": "A potential complication of second-trimester amniocentesis for genetic indications is inadvertent needle insertion into the maternal bladder, resulting in aspiration of urine rather than amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid forms a characteristic crystalline arborization pattern when allowed to air dry. We utilized this property of amniotic fluid to distinguish amniotic fluid from maternal urine. In 24 of 25 cases studied in a randomized blind fashion the crystalline arborization test correctly identified amniotic fluid, whereas none of the 25 urine samples showed this pattern. Our study indicates that the crystalline arborization test is reliable in distinguishing amniotic fluid from maternal urine during the second trimester of pregnancy.", "contents": "Analysis for amniotic fluid crystallization in second-trimester amniocentesis. A potential complication of second-trimester amniocentesis for genetic indications is inadvertent needle insertion into the maternal bladder, resulting in aspiration of urine rather than amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid forms a characteristic crystalline arborization pattern when allowed to air dry. We utilized this property of amniotic fluid to distinguish amniotic fluid from maternal urine. In 24 of 25 cases studied in a randomized blind fashion the crystalline arborization test correctly identified amniotic fluid, whereas none of the 25 urine samples showed this pattern. Our study indicates that the crystalline arborization test is reliable in distinguishing amniotic fluid from maternal urine during the second trimester of pregnancy.", "PMID": 434004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1899", "title": "Perinatal listeriosis--a review of twelve patients.", "content": "From July, 1974 to February, 1978, we managed 12 infants with listeriosis. This infection presented in two distinct forms: an early-onset type (nine patients), often representing a congenital infection following maternal illness, and a late-onset type in which the patient presented with meningitis (three patients). Of our nine infants with early-onset disease, three died, three developed permanent sequelae, and only three were normal at follow-up. Appropriate early management in the perinatal period may improve the outlook in this condition. Affected infants were often premature and had pneumonia, rash, and hepatosplenomegaly at birth. Prenatal clues to the diagnosis included maternal fever, abdominal pains, and leukocytosis with meconium staining of the preterm amniotic fluid. Examination of gastric aspirate at birth showed gram-positive coccobacilli. Antibiotic therapy should be started prenatally and continue for three weeks after birth to prevent recurrences of the late-onset type. This late-onset disease presented as meningitis after the second week of life and responded well to antibiotics. Our three patients recovered without sequelae.", "contents": "Perinatal listeriosis--a review of twelve patients. From July, 1974 to February, 1978, we managed 12 infants with listeriosis. This infection presented in two distinct forms: an early-onset type (nine patients), often representing a congenital infection following maternal illness, and a late-onset type in which the patient presented with meningitis (three patients). Of our nine infants with early-onset disease, three died, three developed permanent sequelae, and only three were normal at follow-up. Appropriate early management in the perinatal period may improve the outlook in this condition. Affected infants were often premature and had pneumonia, rash, and hepatosplenomegaly at birth. Prenatal clues to the diagnosis included maternal fever, abdominal pains, and leukocytosis with meconium staining of the preterm amniotic fluid. Examination of gastric aspirate at birth showed gram-positive coccobacilli. Antibiotic therapy should be started prenatally and continue for three weeks after birth to prevent recurrences of the late-onset type. This late-onset disease presented as meningitis after the second week of life and responded well to antibiotics. Our three patients recovered without sequelae.", "PMID": 434005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1900", "title": "Evaluation of a new rapid slide test for pregnancy.", "content": "A new latex-inhibition slide test for pregnancy, Gest female State, with the use of polystyrene latex particles to which human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been bound, is described. The sensitivity of this test was found to be 2 to 4 1.U. of hCG per milliliter of urine. Clinical trials with the Gest female State in urine samples from 328 patients (203 positive, 125 negative) showed one false negative and no false positive results. Urine containing drugs or high concentrations of various ingredients and abnormal urine did not result in interference with expected test results. The new test was comparable with or superior to other commercially available rapid slide tests for pregnancy.", "contents": "Evaluation of a new rapid slide test for pregnancy. A new latex-inhibition slide test for pregnancy, Gest female State, with the use of polystyrene latex particles to which human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been bound, is described. The sensitivity of this test was found to be 2 to 4 1.U. of hCG per milliliter of urine. Clinical trials with the Gest female State in urine samples from 328 patients (203 positive, 125 negative) showed one false negative and no false positive results. Urine containing drugs or high concentrations of various ingredients and abnormal urine did not result in interference with expected test results. The new test was comparable with or superior to other commercially available rapid slide tests for pregnancy.", "PMID": 434006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1901", "title": "Abnormal antepartum fetal heart rate tracings, failure to intervene, and fetal death: review of five cases reveals potential pitfalls of antepartum monitoring programs.", "content": "The goal of antepartum fetal heart rate monitoring is to identify which infants among high-risk obstetric patients are at risk for intrauterine death and which are not. Effective programs, by appropriately selecting cases for intervention and nonintervention, should contribute to lowering of perinatal morbidity and mortality rates. A review of five fetal deaths preceded by abnormal antepartum FHR tracings suggests effective programs require strict control. Individuals performing the testing should be experienced and knowledgeable in regard to instrumentation characteristics and recognition of normal and abnormal fetal heart rates. Dual responsibility of antepartum testing and providing primary patient care to labor and delivery patients is undesirable. Test interpretation should be based on strict criteria.", "contents": "Abnormal antepartum fetal heart rate tracings, failure to intervene, and fetal death: review of five cases reveals potential pitfalls of antepartum monitoring programs. The goal of antepartum fetal heart rate monitoring is to identify which infants among high-risk obstetric patients are at risk for intrauterine death and which are not. Effective programs, by appropriately selecting cases for intervention and nonintervention, should contribute to lowering of perinatal morbidity and mortality rates. A review of five fetal deaths preceded by abnormal antepartum FHR tracings suggests effective programs require strict control. Individuals performing the testing should be experienced and knowledgeable in regard to instrumentation characteristics and recognition of normal and abnormal fetal heart rates. Dual responsibility of antepartum testing and providing primary patient care to labor and delivery patients is undesirable. Test interpretation should be based on strict criteria.", "PMID": 434007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1902", "title": "The preterm small-for-gestational age infant: a two-year follow-up study.", "content": "Previous investigators have reported unfavorable neurologic and developmental outcome of small-for-gestational age (SGA) infants (birth weight less than 1,500 grams born at term or at less than 30 weeks. of gestation. Since obstetrical considerations for the delivery of a SGA fetus often arise between 30 and 38 weeks, the outcome of these survivors becomes a relevant issue. In 1975 and 1976, twenty-eight of 47 such infants survived and 21 were followed sequentially during the first two years. Their birth weight was 1,220 +/- 195 grams (mean +/- S.D.) and the gestation 33.4 +/- 2 weeks. Each SGA infant was paired with a birth weight-matched appropriate-for-gestation (AGA) infant whose birth weight was 1,195 +/- 190 grams and gestation 29 +/- 2 weeks. The weight, length, and head circumference of the SGA infants attained the tenth percentile by 6 to 8 months and were similar to the AGA group. Quarterly neurologic examinations showed similar findings during the first year in the two groups. At 2 years, two SGA (diplegia) and one AGA (hemiplegia) infants were abnormal. The quarterly Bayley scores of the SGA infants were lower during the first 18 months but at 24 months, the two groups had similar scores. The favorable outcome in preterm SGA infants weighing less than 1,500 grams may serve as useful information in making clinical decisions for the management of mothers with suspected intrauterine growth retardation.", "contents": "The preterm small-for-gestational age infant: a two-year follow-up study. Previous investigators have reported unfavorable neurologic and developmental outcome of small-for-gestational age (SGA) infants (birth weight less than 1,500 grams born at term or at less than 30 weeks. of gestation. Since obstetrical considerations for the delivery of a SGA fetus often arise between 30 and 38 weeks, the outcome of these survivors becomes a relevant issue. In 1975 and 1976, twenty-eight of 47 such infants survived and 21 were followed sequentially during the first two years. Their birth weight was 1,220 +/- 195 grams (mean +/- S.D.) and the gestation 33.4 +/- 2 weeks. Each SGA infant was paired with a birth weight-matched appropriate-for-gestation (AGA) infant whose birth weight was 1,195 +/- 190 grams and gestation 29 +/- 2 weeks. The weight, length, and head circumference of the SGA infants attained the tenth percentile by 6 to 8 months and were similar to the AGA group. Quarterly neurologic examinations showed similar findings during the first year in the two groups. At 2 years, two SGA (diplegia) and one AGA (hemiplegia) infants were abnormal. The quarterly Bayley scores of the SGA infants were lower during the first 18 months but at 24 months, the two groups had similar scores. The favorable outcome in preterm SGA infants weighing less than 1,500 grams may serve as useful information in making clinical decisions for the management of mothers with suspected intrauterine growth retardation.", "PMID": 434008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1903", "title": "Oral contraception and twinning: an epidemiologic study.", "content": "Among 4,428 women studied at five large hospitals in Connecticut, those conceiving within two months of cessation of oral contraceptive use had a twofold increased rate of delivering twins. This increase was found in both black and white women. Analysis of unlike and like sex twins indicates that this effect seems to clearly depend on an increased rate of dizygous twinning.", "contents": "Oral contraception and twinning: an epidemiologic study. Among 4,428 women studied at five large hospitals in Connecticut, those conceiving within two months of cessation of oral contraceptive use had a twofold increased rate of delivering twins. This increase was found in both black and white women. Analysis of unlike and like sex twins indicates that this effect seems to clearly depend on an increased rate of dizygous twinning.", "PMID": 434009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1904", "title": "Further evidence for the role of prolactin on human fetoplacental osmoregulation.", "content": "The addition of ovine prolactin (oPRL) to the fetal side of human term amnion in vitro is associated with a decrease in membrane permeability to tritiated water (THO). As the concentration of oPRL is increased from 2.5 to 20.0 micrograms per milliliter, permeability is progressively impaired. The addition of a specific prolactin receptor antibody completely abolished the effect of oPRL. Also, the addition of Ouabain abolished the effect of oPRL. When an osmolic gradient was created using Dextran-10 on the maternal side of the amnion, the bulk flow of water in control and 3PRL-treated membranes was not significantly different. These findings suggest that PRL acts predominantly on the diffusional flow rather than the bulk flow of water across amnion and that it is a transcellular transport. These studies also represent indirect evidence for the existence of prolactin receptor sites at the level of the amnion.", "contents": "Further evidence for the role of prolactin on human fetoplacental osmoregulation. The addition of ovine prolactin (oPRL) to the fetal side of human term amnion in vitro is associated with a decrease in membrane permeability to tritiated water (THO). As the concentration of oPRL is increased from 2.5 to 20.0 micrograms per milliliter, permeability is progressively impaired. The addition of a specific prolactin receptor antibody completely abolished the effect of oPRL. Also, the addition of Ouabain abolished the effect of oPRL. When an osmolic gradient was created using Dextran-10 on the maternal side of the amnion, the bulk flow of water in control and 3PRL-treated membranes was not significantly different. These findings suggest that PRL acts predominantly on the diffusional flow rather than the bulk flow of water across amnion and that it is a transcellular transport. These studies also represent indirect evidence for the existence of prolactin receptor sites at the level of the amnion.", "PMID": 434010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1905", "title": "Free metanephrine in human amniotic fluid as an index of fetal sympathetic nervous system maturation.", "content": "Free metanephrine, a major metabolite of catecholamines, was measured in the amniotic fluid of 113 pregnant patients at various gestational ages. The results indicate that prior to 30 weeks the levels of free metanephrine are below the level of assay sensitivity. After 30 weeks' gestation there is a positive correlation of free metanephrine concentrations in amniotic fluid with gestational age. In addition there is a further increase in free metanephrine levels in amniotic fluid with labor.", "contents": "Free metanephrine in human amniotic fluid as an index of fetal sympathetic nervous system maturation. Free metanephrine, a major metabolite of catecholamines, was measured in the amniotic fluid of 113 pregnant patients at various gestational ages. The results indicate that prior to 30 weeks the levels of free metanephrine are below the level of assay sensitivity. After 30 weeks' gestation there is a positive correlation of free metanephrine concentrations in amniotic fluid with gestational age. In addition there is a further increase in free metanephrine levels in amniotic fluid with labor.", "PMID": 434011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1906", "title": "In-training examinations for residents in obstetrics and gynecology, 1975 to 1978.", "content": "In the four years from 1975 to 1978, 12,712 in-training examinations were administered to residents by the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Whereas the first four tests (1970 to 1974) consisted entirely of multiple choice items (MCQs), these examinations were approximately equally divided between MCQs and patient management problems (PMPs). Discrimination, difficulty, and reliability indices for the total examination have remained relatively constant. The MCQ subtest scores have decreased in validity due mainly to the decrease in the number of items necessary to accommodate the PMPs. However, the overall test performance remains satisfactory to meet its educational objective. Accomplishment of this objective was enhanced by the unique \"key word feedback\" instituted in 1975. The tests have continued to show a progressive score increase from the first to the fourth years of training. These and other data are presented by year, and the future directions for the examination are discussed.", "contents": "In-training examinations for residents in obstetrics and gynecology, 1975 to 1978. In the four years from 1975 to 1978, 12,712 in-training examinations were administered to residents by the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Whereas the first four tests (1970 to 1974) consisted entirely of multiple choice items (MCQs), these examinations were approximately equally divided between MCQs and patient management problems (PMPs). Discrimination, difficulty, and reliability indices for the total examination have remained relatively constant. The MCQ subtest scores have decreased in validity due mainly to the decrease in the number of items necessary to accommodate the PMPs. However, the overall test performance remains satisfactory to meet its educational objective. Accomplishment of this objective was enhanced by the unique \"key word feedback\" instituted in 1975. The tests have continued to show a progressive score increase from the first to the fourth years of training. These and other data are presented by year, and the future directions for the examination are discussed.", "PMID": 434018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1907", "title": "Mechanism of failed labor after fetal death and its treatment with prostaglandin E2.", "content": "Pregnancy was terminated with prostaglandin E2 in 65 women harboring a dead fetus for 3 days to 8 weeks. The study was designed to: (1) elucidate the mechanism of failed onset of labor in the presence of fetal death, (2) determine appropriate dose-response relationships, and (3) evaluate safety and efficacy of this new method of intervention. Results indicate that plasma progesterone levels from 12 to 40 weeks' gestation are in the lower normal statistical range as compared to those seen in pregnancy with a living fetus. Uterine size as estimated from fetal birth weight is also in the low normal range compared to that seen in a viable pregnancy. Hence the uterine volume-progesterone ratio is equal to or greater than that in normal pregnancy and thereby partially explanatory for the failed initiation of labor. The dosage required to produce delivery declined in each month's grouping from a mean of 56 +/- 26 (SD) mg at 12 to 15 weeks to 22 +/- 8.4 mg at 38 to 40 weeks. Dose-delivery response did not correlate with age, parity, or progesterone levels but did correlate with oxytocin response. Three unusual and serious complications occured.", "contents": "Mechanism of failed labor after fetal death and its treatment with prostaglandin E2. Pregnancy was terminated with prostaglandin E2 in 65 women harboring a dead fetus for 3 days to 8 weeks. The study was designed to: (1) elucidate the mechanism of failed onset of labor in the presence of fetal death, (2) determine appropriate dose-response relationships, and (3) evaluate safety and efficacy of this new method of intervention. Results indicate that plasma progesterone levels from 12 to 40 weeks' gestation are in the lower normal statistical range as compared to those seen in pregnancy with a living fetus. Uterine size as estimated from fetal birth weight is also in the low normal range compared to that seen in a viable pregnancy. Hence the uterine volume-progesterone ratio is equal to or greater than that in normal pregnancy and thereby partially explanatory for the failed initiation of labor. The dosage required to produce delivery declined in each month's grouping from a mean of 56 +/- 26 (SD) mg at 12 to 15 weeks to 22 +/- 8.4 mg at 38 to 40 weeks. Dose-delivery response did not correlate with age, parity, or progesterone levels but did correlate with oxytocin response. Three unusual and serious complications occured.", "PMID": 434019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1908", "title": "Intrapartum fetal heart rate monitoring. I. Classification and prognosis of fetal heart rate patterns.", "content": "A total of 1,996 direct fetal heart rate (FHR) tracings in labor were analyzed using the first and last 30 minutes of monitoring in order to evaluate individual FHR characteristics as to their ability to predict the fetal status. Comparisons were made between individual FHR characteristics occurring alone (\"uncomplicated\") and those occurring in association with others (\"complicated\") in predicting fetal status as judged by 1 and 5 minute Apgar scores. These comparisons were made separately for the first 30 minutes and the last 30 minutes of monitoring.", "contents": "Intrapartum fetal heart rate monitoring. I. Classification and prognosis of fetal heart rate patterns. A total of 1,996 direct fetal heart rate (FHR) tracings in labor were analyzed using the first and last 30 minutes of monitoring in order to evaluate individual FHR characteristics as to their ability to predict the fetal status. Comparisons were made between individual FHR characteristics occurring alone (\"uncomplicated\") and those occurring in association with others (\"complicated\") in predicting fetal status as judged by 1 and 5 minute Apgar scores. These comparisons were made separately for the first 30 minutes and the last 30 minutes of monitoring.", "PMID": 434020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1909", "title": "Calcium metabolism in normal pregnancy: a longitudinal study.", "content": "Total and ionic calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, albumin, and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) and calcitonin (iCT) were measured in serum or plasma from 30 women throughout pregnancy (beginning before 12 weeks' gestation) and the puerperium. Total calcium levels declined during gestation, paralleling a progressive fall in albumin concentration, whereas ionic calcium values declined only very slightly. Although iPTH levels in early pregnancy were lower than postpartum values (suggesting that iPTH may decline initially following conception), the major portion of gestation was characterized by progressively increasing concentrations which at term averaged 53% above early pregnancy levels and 33% above puerperal values. Thus, the principal adjustment during pregnancy is \"physiologic hyperparathyroidism\" which acts to preserve maternal homeostasis by maintaining the concentration of calcium ions in extracellular fluid in the presence of expanding fluid volume, increased renal function, and placental transfer. iCT levels were not affected consistently by pregnancy and exhibited highly variable patterns; half of the subjects demonstrated an increase during the first and second trimesters and then a decline in the third trimester and the remaining half was equally divided between those with no change and those with progressively falling levels.", "contents": "Calcium metabolism in normal pregnancy: a longitudinal study. Total and ionic calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, albumin, and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) and calcitonin (iCT) were measured in serum or plasma from 30 women throughout pregnancy (beginning before 12 weeks' gestation) and the puerperium. Total calcium levels declined during gestation, paralleling a progressive fall in albumin concentration, whereas ionic calcium values declined only very slightly. Although iPTH levels in early pregnancy were lower than postpartum values (suggesting that iPTH may decline initially following conception), the major portion of gestation was characterized by progressively increasing concentrations which at term averaged 53% above early pregnancy levels and 33% above puerperal values. Thus, the principal adjustment during pregnancy is \"physiologic hyperparathyroidism\" which acts to preserve maternal homeostasis by maintaining the concentration of calcium ions in extracellular fluid in the presence of expanding fluid volume, increased renal function, and placental transfer. iCT levels were not affected consistently by pregnancy and exhibited highly variable patterns; half of the subjects demonstrated an increase during the first and second trimesters and then a decline in the third trimester and the remaining half was equally divided between those with no change and those with progressively falling levels.", "PMID": 434021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1910", "title": "The evolution of a treatment program for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium.", "content": "Previous studies at the University of Minnesota suggest that overall survival rates after treatment for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium are related to increased surgical applicability, that vaginal recurrence is frequently related to cervical involvement, and that virtually all women can safely undergo abdominal hysterectomy and radical irradiation therapy. In this program a simple abdominal hysterectomy was applied to as many women with this disease as possible. High-risk patients also received preoprative or postoperative irradiation. This program increased the survival rate for all stages from 58% to 69.7%. The survival rate among women with Stage I high-risk disease treated with supplementary irradiation was significantly lower when compared to that among women with low-risk disease who were treated by surgery alone. No vaginal recurrences were observed in either group and 98.4% were operated upon. The survival rate of women with Stage II disease treated with irradiation and surgery improved significantly. The rate of vaginal recurrence was 2.2%.", "contents": "The evolution of a treatment program for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. Previous studies at the University of Minnesota suggest that overall survival rates after treatment for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium are related to increased surgical applicability, that vaginal recurrence is frequently related to cervical involvement, and that virtually all women can safely undergo abdominal hysterectomy and radical irradiation therapy. In this program a simple abdominal hysterectomy was applied to as many women with this disease as possible. High-risk patients also received preoprative or postoperative irradiation. This program increased the survival rate for all stages from 58% to 69.7%. The survival rate among women with Stage I high-risk disease treated with supplementary irradiation was significantly lower when compared to that among women with low-risk disease who were treated by surgery alone. No vaginal recurrences were observed in either group and 98.4% were operated upon. The survival rate of women with Stage II disease treated with irradiation and surgery improved significantly. The rate of vaginal recurrence was 2.2%.", "PMID": 434022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1911", "title": "Extrapelvic lymph node metastases in cervical carcinoma.", "content": "One hundred and fifty patients with invasive cervical carcinoma underwent preradiation therapy celiotomy and para-aortic node excision. The incidence of histologically documented metastases in these nodes was 33% (34/102) in Stage IIIB. The last 23 patients with positive para-aortic nodes had left sclanene node excision; nodes were positive in eight patients (34.8%). Sixteen patients had visceral metastases including 11 with small and large bowel metastases, two with liver metastases, and one with metastases to the liver and intestine. Pretreatment celiotomy with para-aortic lymph node excision and, where positive, followed by scalene lymph node excision is valuable in treatment planning in advanced cervical carcinoma limited to the pelvis.", "contents": "Extrapelvic lymph node metastases in cervical carcinoma. One hundred and fifty patients with invasive cervical carcinoma underwent preradiation therapy celiotomy and para-aortic node excision. The incidence of histologically documented metastases in these nodes was 33% (34/102) in Stage IIIB. The last 23 patients with positive para-aortic nodes had left sclanene node excision; nodes were positive in eight patients (34.8%). Sixteen patients had visceral metastases including 11 with small and large bowel metastases, two with liver metastases, and one with metastases to the liver and intestine. Pretreatment celiotomy with para-aortic lymph node excision and, where positive, followed by scalene lymph node excision is valuable in treatment planning in advanced cervical carcinoma limited to the pelvis.", "PMID": 434023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1912", "title": "An alternate approach to early cancer of the vulva.", "content": "Early invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva has emerged as a controversial issue in recent literature. Reports illustrating metastatic disease in the inguinal lymph nodes have conflicted with other reports suggesting local treatment only. The morbidity produced by radical vulvectomy to both body image and sexual function make this issue worthy of serious consideration. This report deals with an alternate approach to this disease entity which attempts to preserve vulvar tissue without sacrificing curability where possible metastatic disease exists. The concept is proposed of utilizing the superficial inguinal nodes as sentinel nodes in the treatment planning. The results of 20 patients treated in this manner are presented.", "contents": "An alternate approach to early cancer of the vulva. Early invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva has emerged as a controversial issue in recent literature. Reports illustrating metastatic disease in the inguinal lymph nodes have conflicted with other reports suggesting local treatment only. The morbidity produced by radical vulvectomy to both body image and sexual function make this issue worthy of serious consideration. This report deals with an alternate approach to this disease entity which attempts to preserve vulvar tissue without sacrificing curability where possible metastatic disease exists. The concept is proposed of utilizing the superficial inguinal nodes as sentinel nodes in the treatment planning. The results of 20 patients treated in this manner are presented.", "PMID": 434024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1913", "title": "A simplified surgical technique for the treatment of the vault in vaginal hysterectomy.", "content": "The surgical steps in the various techniques to remove the uterus by vaginal hysterectomy are quite uniform; however, the handling of the vaginal cuff differs with each and all techniques reviewed. The technique here described is a simplified method that secures hemostasis, establishes drainage of the anterior vaginal wall, and creates a vaginal canal adequate for sexual function. Emphasis is placed on the inclination of the vagina, a step that brings the vaginal axis almost perpendicular to the body axis, obviating the constant bearing-down effect on the intra-abdominal pressure on the apex of the vagina. Prevention of subsequent enterocele formation is achieved by the occlusion of the weak spot between the ulterosacral ligaments, the site of the hernial sac formation.", "contents": "A simplified surgical technique for the treatment of the vault in vaginal hysterectomy. The surgical steps in the various techniques to remove the uterus by vaginal hysterectomy are quite uniform; however, the handling of the vaginal cuff differs with each and all techniques reviewed. The technique here described is a simplified method that secures hemostasis, establishes drainage of the anterior vaginal wall, and creates a vaginal canal adequate for sexual function. Emphasis is placed on the inclination of the vagina, a step that brings the vaginal axis almost perpendicular to the body axis, obviating the constant bearing-down effect on the intra-abdominal pressure on the apex of the vagina. Prevention of subsequent enterocele formation is achieved by the occlusion of the weak spot between the ulterosacral ligaments, the site of the hernial sac formation.", "PMID": 434027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1914", "title": "Changing obstetric practices and amelioration of perinatal outcome in a university hospital.", "content": "A 40 year review of obstetric statistics revealed that the perinatal outcome has improved significantly following the introduction of biophysical and biochemical fetal surveillance systems. A simultaneous increase in the cesarean section rate is noted; however, this increase in the cesarean section rate is not related to an increase in the diagnosis of fetal distress. Other factors which may influence an improved perinatal outcome have been examined. It is concluded that biochemical and biophysical fetal surveillance has played a decisive role in the improvement of perinatal results.", "contents": "Changing obstetric practices and amelioration of perinatal outcome in a university hospital. A 40 year review of obstetric statistics revealed that the perinatal outcome has improved significantly following the introduction of biophysical and biochemical fetal surveillance systems. A simultaneous increase in the cesarean section rate is noted; however, this increase in the cesarean section rate is not related to an increase in the diagnosis of fetal distress. Other factors which may influence an improved perinatal outcome have been examined. It is concluded that biochemical and biophysical fetal surveillance has played a decisive role in the improvement of perinatal results.", "PMID": 434028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1915", "title": "Proliferation kinetics of human endometrium during the normal menstrual cycle.", "content": "A radioautographic analysis of the number and distribution of labeled nuclei after in vitro incorporation of radiothymidine was carried out in human endometrium during the normal menstrual cycle. The highest rates of proliferation were recorded on cycle days 8 to 10 in the upper one third of the functionalis layer. Coinciding with intraglandular secretory activity on cycle day 19, the rate of proliferation of gland cells decreased near zero levels and remained unchanged thereafter. Midsecretory phase arteriolar coiling and stromal predecidualization were associated with increased isotope incorporation. DNA synthesis in premenstrual endometrium was limited to the surface epithelium, predecidua, and vascular endothelium. The endometrium of the isthmus and cornual regions and of the basalis zone demonstrated relatively constant and comparatively lower rates of proliferation throughout the cycle. Regional and cellular variations in nucleic acid synthesis in cyclic endometrium are likely to reflect differences in physiologic functions in target cells in response to cyclic hormonal stimuli.", "contents": "Proliferation kinetics of human endometrium during the normal menstrual cycle. A radioautographic analysis of the number and distribution of labeled nuclei after in vitro incorporation of radiothymidine was carried out in human endometrium during the normal menstrual cycle. The highest rates of proliferation were recorded on cycle days 8 to 10 in the upper one third of the functionalis layer. Coinciding with intraglandular secretory activity on cycle day 19, the rate of proliferation of gland cells decreased near zero levels and remained unchanged thereafter. Midsecretory phase arteriolar coiling and stromal predecidualization were associated with increased isotope incorporation. DNA synthesis in premenstrual endometrium was limited to the surface epithelium, predecidua, and vascular endothelium. The endometrium of the isthmus and cornual regions and of the basalis zone demonstrated relatively constant and comparatively lower rates of proliferation throughout the cycle. Regional and cellular variations in nucleic acid synthesis in cyclic endometrium are likely to reflect differences in physiologic functions in target cells in response to cyclic hormonal stimuli.", "PMID": 434029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1916", "title": "Psychological development of children who received intrauterine transfusions.", "content": "The intellectual, visual-motor, and social development of 15 children, 3 to 10 years of age, who received IUT for eythroblastosis fetalis was compared with that of 15 children of similar age who had required only exchange transfusions for the treatment of the same disorder. No over-all differences were found between the two groups or between the groups and the normal population. In comparison with normal population, recipients of IUT have above average IQ's and normal development in visual-motor integration and adaptive behavior.", "contents": "Psychological development of children who received intrauterine transfusions. The intellectual, visual-motor, and social development of 15 children, 3 to 10 years of age, who received IUT for eythroblastosis fetalis was compared with that of 15 children of similar age who had required only exchange transfusions for the treatment of the same disorder. No over-all differences were found between the two groups or between the groups and the normal population. In comparison with normal population, recipients of IUT have above average IQ's and normal development in visual-motor integration and adaptive behavior.", "PMID": 434030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1917", "title": "Alterations in activity of enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase in central and peripheral regions of the rat and rabbit during pregnancy, parturition, and the postpartum period.", "content": "Natural variations in the activity of the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase in central and peripheral regions of the rat and rabbit during pregnancy and parturition were observed. All of the organs of the rat showed a decrease in enzyme activity up to the twenty-first day of pregnancy. Rabbit tissues also demonstrated a decrease in catechol-O-methyltransferase activity during Days 24 to 30 after coitus. Increases in activity of the rat ovary, brain, and hypothalamus took place from during Day 21 after coitus to the onset of parturition. The enzyme activity in the rat hypothalamus reached its maximum level at four hours post partum from the Day 21 value, but the rabbit hypothalamus showed the maximum activity at 0 hour parturition. During post partum hours, rat brain catechol-O-methyltransferase activity was very high but the rabbit brain showed a very low level of activity. Rabbit uterine activity reached its minimum value at Day 31 after coitus, but at the comparable intervals the situation was inversed in the rat. Results show an important modification of monoamine degradation by 3-O-methylation during midgestation in the central and peripheral regions. These modifications may be attributed to the natural variations in endocrine activity taking place during pregnancy.", "contents": "Alterations in activity of enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase in central and peripheral regions of the rat and rabbit during pregnancy, parturition, and the postpartum period. Natural variations in the activity of the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase in central and peripheral regions of the rat and rabbit during pregnancy and parturition were observed. All of the organs of the rat showed a decrease in enzyme activity up to the twenty-first day of pregnancy. Rabbit tissues also demonstrated a decrease in catechol-O-methyltransferase activity during Days 24 to 30 after coitus. Increases in activity of the rat ovary, brain, and hypothalamus took place from during Day 21 after coitus to the onset of parturition. The enzyme activity in the rat hypothalamus reached its maximum level at four hours post partum from the Day 21 value, but the rabbit hypothalamus showed the maximum activity at 0 hour parturition. During post partum hours, rat brain catechol-O-methyltransferase activity was very high but the rabbit brain showed a very low level of activity. Rabbit uterine activity reached its minimum value at Day 31 after coitus, but at the comparable intervals the situation was inversed in the rat. Results show an important modification of monoamine degradation by 3-O-methylation during midgestation in the central and peripheral regions. These modifications may be attributed to the natural variations in endocrine activity taking place during pregnancy.", "PMID": 434031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1918", "title": "Prostaglandin F2 alpha metabolite levels in plasma, amniotic fluid, and urine during pregnancy and labor.", "content": "Levels of 13, 14-dihydro 15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha (dhk PGF2alpha) in the plasma of 30 patients as well as in the amniotic fluid of 17 patients, and 5alpha,7alpha-dihydroxy 11-keto tetranor-prostane 1,16-dioic acid (the main urinary metabolite of PGF2alpha [PGF2alpha MUM]) levels in the urine of 30 patients were measured by radioimmunoassay during pregnancy, labor, and the puerperium. During pregnancy, no increase in dhk PGF2alpha (ng/ml) in plasma was detected as the time of delivery approached. The levels of dhk PGF2alpha during the second stage (0.64 +/- 0.15) and also at delivery (0.88 +/- 0.27) were significantly elevated over those in the first stage (0.38 +/- 0.29) (P less than 0.025 and P less than 0.005, respectively). Its level 2 hours after delivery was reduced to predelivery levels. Its levels in umbilical arterial and venous blood were 0.71 +/- 0.26 and 0.67 +/- 0.26, respectively. A significant elevation (P less than 0.01) of dhk PGF2alpha from 0.89 +/- 0.21 before labor to 6.16 +/- 2.40 at delivery was found in amniotic fluid. The hourly excretion of PGF2alpha MUM (microgram/hour) increased significantly from pregnancy levels to 1.06 +/- 0.45 in the first stage (P less than 0.01), to 7.67 +/- 4.31 (P less than 0.005) for the first 2 hours after delivery, and 2.37 +/- 1.08 from 2 to 12 hours after delivery (P less than 0.01). The excretion of PGF2alpha MUM decreased to pregnancy levels 12 hours post partum. These data indicate that during labor the production of PGF2alpha is remarkably increased.", "contents": "Prostaglandin F2 alpha metabolite levels in plasma, amniotic fluid, and urine during pregnancy and labor. Levels of 13, 14-dihydro 15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha (dhk PGF2alpha) in the plasma of 30 patients as well as in the amniotic fluid of 17 patients, and 5alpha,7alpha-dihydroxy 11-keto tetranor-prostane 1,16-dioic acid (the main urinary metabolite of PGF2alpha [PGF2alpha MUM]) levels in the urine of 30 patients were measured by radioimmunoassay during pregnancy, labor, and the puerperium. During pregnancy, no increase in dhk PGF2alpha (ng/ml) in plasma was detected as the time of delivery approached. The levels of dhk PGF2alpha during the second stage (0.64 +/- 0.15) and also at delivery (0.88 +/- 0.27) were significantly elevated over those in the first stage (0.38 +/- 0.29) (P less than 0.025 and P less than 0.005, respectively). Its level 2 hours after delivery was reduced to predelivery levels. Its levels in umbilical arterial and venous blood were 0.71 +/- 0.26 and 0.67 +/- 0.26, respectively. A significant elevation (P less than 0.01) of dhk PGF2alpha from 0.89 +/- 0.21 before labor to 6.16 +/- 2.40 at delivery was found in amniotic fluid. The hourly excretion of PGF2alpha MUM (microgram/hour) increased significantly from pregnancy levels to 1.06 +/- 0.45 in the first stage (P less than 0.01), to 7.67 +/- 4.31 (P less than 0.005) for the first 2 hours after delivery, and 2.37 +/- 1.08 from 2 to 12 hours after delivery (P less than 0.01). The excretion of PGF2alpha MUM decreased to pregnancy levels 12 hours post partum. These data indicate that during labor the production of PGF2alpha is remarkably increased.", "PMID": 434032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1919", "title": "Prolonging paracervical block anesthesia: addition of dextran to 2-chloroprocaine.", "content": "Forty parturient women received paracervical block (PCB) anesthetics during labor with 2-chloroprocaine (2-CP) and epinephrine in either normal saline or dextran. Thirty-six patients were though to have adequate anesthesia. Nineteen patients who recived 2-CP in saline had a mean duration of anesthesia lasting 55.4 min; one fetus developed post-PCB bradycardia. Seventeen patients who received 2-CP in dextran had a mean duration of anesthesia lasting 72.7 min; no fetal bradycardia was observed following PCB. Neonatal depression, expressed by 1 and 5 min Apgar scores below seven, was not observed in either group. The addition of dextran to 2-CP significantly prolongs the duration of PCB anesthesia and does not appear to compromise the fetus. The pain relief provided by a single PCB with 2-CP in dextran is still relatively short and would not persist throughout the active phase of labor in most parturient women.", "contents": "Prolonging paracervical block anesthesia: addition of dextran to 2-chloroprocaine. Forty parturient women received paracervical block (PCB) anesthetics during labor with 2-chloroprocaine (2-CP) and epinephrine in either normal saline or dextran. Thirty-six patients were though to have adequate anesthesia. Nineteen patients who recived 2-CP in saline had a mean duration of anesthesia lasting 55.4 min; one fetus developed post-PCB bradycardia. Seventeen patients who received 2-CP in dextran had a mean duration of anesthesia lasting 72.7 min; no fetal bradycardia was observed following PCB. Neonatal depression, expressed by 1 and 5 min Apgar scores below seven, was not observed in either group. The addition of dextran to 2-CP significantly prolongs the duration of PCB anesthesia and does not appear to compromise the fetus. The pain relief provided by a single PCB with 2-CP in dextran is still relatively short and would not persist throughout the active phase of labor in most parturient women.", "PMID": 434033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1920", "title": "Meperidine and normeperidine levels following meperidine administration during labor. I. Mother.", "content": "Because of the unavailability of sensitive analytic techniques, the pharmacokinetics of meperidine have not been clearly delineated in obstetric patients during labor. Moreover, the production of the active meperidine metabolite--normeperidine--has not been investigated. By means of gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques, these characteristics of meperidine metabolism were evaluated in 23 pregnant patients in the present study. The data show that the disappearance curve and pharmacokinetic constants for meperidine are similar to those previously reported for nonpregnant subjects. In regard to normeperidine, the data indicate that it is produced within ten minutes after meperidine injection, increases rapidly for the next 20 minutes, and then slowly increases throughout labor. The results enumerate the pharmacokinetic constants of meperidine in obstetric patients and describe the appearance of normeperidine, the active meperidine metabolite, following meperidine administration during labor.", "contents": "Meperidine and normeperidine levels following meperidine administration during labor. I. Mother. Because of the unavailability of sensitive analytic techniques, the pharmacokinetics of meperidine have not been clearly delineated in obstetric patients during labor. Moreover, the production of the active meperidine metabolite--normeperidine--has not been investigated. By means of gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques, these characteristics of meperidine metabolism were evaluated in 23 pregnant patients in the present study. The data show that the disappearance curve and pharmacokinetic constants for meperidine are similar to those previously reported for nonpregnant subjects. In regard to normeperidine, the data indicate that it is produced within ten minutes after meperidine injection, increases rapidly for the next 20 minutes, and then slowly increases throughout labor. The results enumerate the pharmacokinetic constants of meperidine in obstetric patients and describe the appearance of normeperidine, the active meperidine metabolite, following meperidine administration during labor.", "PMID": 434034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1921", "title": "Meperidine and normeperidine levels following meperidine administration during labor. II. Fetus and neonate.", "content": "The time interval between the administration of meperidine to laboring patients and delivery may affect neonatal status, but sophisticated analytic techniques have not been used to determine the exposure of the fetus to meperidine at various drug-delivery intervals. By means of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, the concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine (the principle metabolite of meperidine) were quantitated in the umbilical cord venous and arterial plasma at delivery and in the urine of the neonate for three days postpartum. Following 50 mg. of meperidine administered intravenously during labor, fetal exposure to meperidine was highest two to three hours after maternal medication while fetal exposure to normeperidine was highest four hours or more after medication. We conclude from this study that there is a definite but nonlinear relationship between the drug-delivery interval and the amount of meperidine and normeperidine an infant receives; and that the drug-delivery intervals resulting in maximum fetal exposure reported here correspond with those resulting in maximum neonatal depression reported by others.", "contents": "Meperidine and normeperidine levels following meperidine administration during labor. II. Fetus and neonate. The time interval between the administration of meperidine to laboring patients and delivery may affect neonatal status, but sophisticated analytic techniques have not been used to determine the exposure of the fetus to meperidine at various drug-delivery intervals. By means of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, the concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine (the principle metabolite of meperidine) were quantitated in the umbilical cord venous and arterial plasma at delivery and in the urine of the neonate for three days postpartum. Following 50 mg. of meperidine administered intravenously during labor, fetal exposure to meperidine was highest two to three hours after maternal medication while fetal exposure to normeperidine was highest four hours or more after medication. We conclude from this study that there is a definite but nonlinear relationship between the drug-delivery interval and the amount of meperidine and normeperidine an infant receives; and that the drug-delivery intervals resulting in maximum fetal exposure reported here correspond with those resulting in maximum neonatal depression reported by others.", "PMID": 434035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1922", "title": "The ultrasonic changes in the maturing placenta and their relation to fetal pulmonic maturity.", "content": "A practical classification of placental maturity changes has been developed based on a review of multiple ultrasound evaluations of placental texture over a 4 year period. This classification grades placentas from 0 to 3 according to specific ultrasonic findings at the basal and chorionic plates as well as within the substance of the organ itself. The placentas of 129 patients were graded according to this system at the time of ultrasound evaluation. Eighty-six patients had placentas classified as Grade 1 or greater and all of these had lecithin-sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio determinations performed. Mature L/S ratios (2.0) were found in 68% of Grade I (21/31), 88% of Grade II (28/32), and 100% of Grade III placentas (23/23). These results suggest a correlation between maturational changes of the placenta as seen by ultrasound and fetal pulmonic maturity as indicated by L/S ratio.", "contents": "The ultrasonic changes in the maturing placenta and their relation to fetal pulmonic maturity. A practical classification of placental maturity changes has been developed based on a review of multiple ultrasound evaluations of placental texture over a 4 year period. This classification grades placentas from 0 to 3 according to specific ultrasonic findings at the basal and chorionic plates as well as within the substance of the organ itself. The placentas of 129 patients were graded according to this system at the time of ultrasound evaluation. Eighty-six patients had placentas classified as Grade 1 or greater and all of these had lecithin-sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio determinations performed. Mature L/S ratios (2.0) were found in 68% of Grade I (21/31), 88% of Grade II (28/32), and 100% of Grade III placentas (23/23). These results suggest a correlation between maturational changes of the placenta as seen by ultrasound and fetal pulmonic maturity as indicated by L/S ratio.", "PMID": 434036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1923", "title": "Water-borne contamination of intrauterine pressure transducers.", "content": "Internal intrapartum fetal monitoring has been implicated as a source of maternal and fetal sepsis. We report water-borne contamination of a component of the intrauterine pressure transducer and suggest that this may be a potential source of nosocomial infection.", "contents": "Water-borne contamination of intrauterine pressure transducers. Internal intrapartum fetal monitoring has been implicated as a source of maternal and fetal sepsis. We report water-borne contamination of a component of the intrauterine pressure transducer and suggest that this may be a potential source of nosocomial infection.", "PMID": 434037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1924", "title": "Allergic granulomatous nodules of the eyelid and conjunctiva. The XXXV Edward Jackson Memorial Lecture.", "content": "We studied the clinical and pathologic features of 22 cases of granulomas of the conjunctiva or eyelids. All cases showed the histologic features of the Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon, that is, a giant cell and eosinophil granulomatous reaction to an antigen-antibody precipitate originally described in relation to parasites or fungi. In four of seven typical cases selected for detailed description unidentified nematodes were found to be the cause of the condition. In light of these findings together with a review of similar \"allergic granulomas\" reported both in ocular tissues and elsewhere in the body, we considered the cause in the remaining cases. All 22 cases may have been caused by nematodes, as seems, probable in 14 of them, or the causative antigens may have been of widely different kinds. Although in our cases all ocular granulomas had an identical histology, this study did not resolve the problem of those cases where no causative agent was found. Thorough investigation of such cases in the future and the demonstration of their cause may elucidate the wider problem of nonocular allergic granulomas.", "contents": "Allergic granulomatous nodules of the eyelid and conjunctiva. The XXXV Edward Jackson Memorial Lecture. We studied the clinical and pathologic features of 22 cases of granulomas of the conjunctiva or eyelids. All cases showed the histologic features of the Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon, that is, a giant cell and eosinophil granulomatous reaction to an antigen-antibody precipitate originally described in relation to parasites or fungi. In four of seven typical cases selected for detailed description unidentified nematodes were found to be the cause of the condition. In light of these findings together with a review of similar \"allergic granulomas\" reported both in ocular tissues and elsewhere in the body, we considered the cause in the remaining cases. All 22 cases may have been caused by nematodes, as seems, probable in 14 of them, or the causative antigens may have been of widely different kinds. Although in our cases all ocular granulomas had an identical histology, this study did not resolve the problem of those cases where no causative agent was found. Thorough investigation of such cases in the future and the demonstration of their cause may elucidate the wider problem of nonocular allergic granulomas.", "PMID": 434048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1925", "title": "Congenital retino-pigment epithelial malformation, previously described as hamartoma.", "content": "Six patients with a congenital malformation of the retina and pigment epithelium had a slightly elevated greenish-blue or gray lesion in the macular area or fundus periphery composed of a flat, outer pigmented portion consisting of a layer of hyperpigmented, presumably hypertrophied retinal pigment epithelium and a prominent, unpigmented inner portion consisting of malformed thickened retina. Marked tortuosity of the retinal vessels was explained by an intraretinal disturbance of the retinal layering and the presence of preretinal membranes. Angiography revealed blockage of the background fluorescence caused by the abnormal retinal pigment epithelium and leakage from dilated, abnormal capillaries. Typically, the lesion was unilateral and was found in children or young adults who had monocular strabismus, reduced visual acuity, and often hyperopia. Most of the patients were males, and their cases were frequently misdiagnosed as tumors.", "contents": "Congenital retino-pigment epithelial malformation, previously described as hamartoma. Six patients with a congenital malformation of the retina and pigment epithelium had a slightly elevated greenish-blue or gray lesion in the macular area or fundus periphery composed of a flat, outer pigmented portion consisting of a layer of hyperpigmented, presumably hypertrophied retinal pigment epithelium and a prominent, unpigmented inner portion consisting of malformed thickened retina. Marked tortuosity of the retinal vessels was explained by an intraretinal disturbance of the retinal layering and the presence of preretinal membranes. Angiography revealed blockage of the background fluorescence caused by the abnormal retinal pigment epithelium and leakage from dilated, abnormal capillaries. Typically, the lesion was unilateral and was found in children or young adults who had monocular strabismus, reduced visual acuity, and often hyperopia. Most of the patients were males, and their cases were frequently misdiagnosed as tumors.", "PMID": 434051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1926", "title": "The diagnosis and treatment of secondary glaucoma after hyphema in sickle cell patients.", "content": "Four patients with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies (one sickle cell hemoglobin C disease (SC); three sickle cell trait (AS)) and hyphemas had a higher percentage of erythrocytes sickled in their anterior chambers than in their circulating venous blood. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was severely increased, despite relatively small amounts of intracameral blood. Systemic hypotensive agents were not always successful in reducing IOP, and in patients with sickle cell hemoglobinopathy, are probably contraindicated in high or repeated dose regimens. Moderate increase of IOP in sickle cell hemoglobinopathy patients may produced rapid deterioration of visual function, because of a greater than usual effect on vascular perfusion in the central retinal artery and optic nerve. Early anterior chamber paracentesis may be the best treatment for this type of hyphema-induced secondary glaucoma.", "contents": "The diagnosis and treatment of secondary glaucoma after hyphema in sickle cell patients. Four patients with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies (one sickle cell hemoglobin C disease (SC); three sickle cell trait (AS)) and hyphemas had a higher percentage of erythrocytes sickled in their anterior chambers than in their circulating venous blood. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was severely increased, despite relatively small amounts of intracameral blood. Systemic hypotensive agents were not always successful in reducing IOP, and in patients with sickle cell hemoglobinopathy, are probably contraindicated in high or repeated dose regimens. Moderate increase of IOP in sickle cell hemoglobinopathy patients may produced rapid deterioration of visual function, because of a greater than usual effect on vascular perfusion in the central retinal artery and optic nerve. Early anterior chamber paracentesis may be the best treatment for this type of hyphema-induced secondary glaucoma.", "PMID": 434052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1927", "title": "Transcorneal flux of topical pilocarpine to the human aqueous.", "content": "Aqueous fluid was withdrawn from eyes of patients undergoing cataract extraction at various intervals after administration of two drops of 2% pilocarpine HCl in a standard manner. Determination of aqueous pilocarpine concentration was made both by spectroscopy of a ferric hydroxylamine complex and by gas-liquid chromatography. Results of both methods were consistent in indicating that concentration does not rise at any time following such topical instillation beyond 5 microgram/ml, with an average of 1.67 microgram/ml, representing a flux efficiency of 0.03%. These findings correlate well with previous investigations of transcorneal flux of pilocarpine for the rabbit in a transport chamber system, in which comparable low flux efficiency was found after simulated drop administration. This serves in some measure to validate an extrapolation of other findings in chamber experiments to the living human eye.", "contents": "Transcorneal flux of topical pilocarpine to the human aqueous. Aqueous fluid was withdrawn from eyes of patients undergoing cataract extraction at various intervals after administration of two drops of 2% pilocarpine HCl in a standard manner. Determination of aqueous pilocarpine concentration was made both by spectroscopy of a ferric hydroxylamine complex and by gas-liquid chromatography. Results of both methods were consistent in indicating that concentration does not rise at any time following such topical instillation beyond 5 microgram/ml, with an average of 1.67 microgram/ml, representing a flux efficiency of 0.03%. These findings correlate well with previous investigations of transcorneal flux of pilocarpine for the rabbit in a transport chamber system, in which comparable low flux efficiency was found after simulated drop administration. This serves in some measure to validate an extrapolation of other findings in chamber experiments to the living human eye.", "PMID": 434053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1928", "title": "Delayed absorption of subretinal fluid after scleral buckling procedures.", "content": "Delayed absorption of subretinal fluid beyond six weeks after surgical repair for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was recognized in 39 of 575 consecutive cases of scleral buckling. The most common preoperative condition was large clumps of cells on the undersurface of the detached retina (subretinal precipitates). Approximately one in four patients in whom precipitates are seen preoperatively will have fluid persisting beyond six weeks from surgical repair to complete absorption. A second relatively common condition associated with delayed fluid absorption that could be recognized before operation was long-standing peripheral (usually inferior) retinal detachment, which typically spared the macula, was associated with demarcation lines, and was caused by round atrophic holes with or without associated lattice degeneration. An analysis of subretinal fluid protein concentrations in 39 cases showed a positive relationship between protein concentration and duration of detachment. Pigment-laden macrophages in the subretinal space, possibly originating from the retinal epithelium, were common.", "contents": "Delayed absorption of subretinal fluid after scleral buckling procedures. Delayed absorption of subretinal fluid beyond six weeks after surgical repair for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was recognized in 39 of 575 consecutive cases of scleral buckling. The most common preoperative condition was large clumps of cells on the undersurface of the detached retina (subretinal precipitates). Approximately one in four patients in whom precipitates are seen preoperatively will have fluid persisting beyond six weeks from surgical repair to complete absorption. A second relatively common condition associated with delayed fluid absorption that could be recognized before operation was long-standing peripheral (usually inferior) retinal detachment, which typically spared the macula, was associated with demarcation lines, and was caused by round atrophic holes with or without associated lattice degeneration. An analysis of subretinal fluid protein concentrations in 39 cases showed a positive relationship between protein concentration and duration of detachment. Pigment-laden macrophages in the subretinal space, possibly originating from the retinal epithelium, were common.", "PMID": 434054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1929", "title": "Neonatal retinal hemorrhages and influence of perinatal factors.", "content": "We studied fundus oculi in 234 newborns, divided into two groups of mothers and neonates with or without disease. The overall frequency or retinal hemorrhages was 30.3% (71 neonates). In each group, we studied the association between retinal hemorrhage and several variables of labor and the newborn infant. Statistically significant differences were found in the incidence of hemorrhage in one (2.6%) neonate born by cesarean section, as compared with 61 (38%) spontaneous or 9 (25%) forceps delivery.", "contents": "Neonatal retinal hemorrhages and influence of perinatal factors. We studied fundus oculi in 234 newborns, divided into two groups of mothers and neonates with or without disease. The overall frequency or retinal hemorrhages was 30.3% (71 neonates). In each group, we studied the association between retinal hemorrhage and several variables of labor and the newborn infant. Statistically significant differences were found in the incidence of hemorrhage in one (2.6%) neonate born by cesarean section, as compared with 61 (38%) spontaneous or 9 (25%) forceps delivery.", "PMID": 434055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1930", "title": "Exacerbation of senile macular degeneration following cataract extraction.", "content": "Six eyes in four patients had hemorrhagic detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium following cataract extraction. All eyes had evidence of nonexudative senile macular degeneration preoperatively as manifested by drusen or alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium, or both. Postoperatively, all eyes had evidence of a subretinal neovascular membrane manifested by the presence of subretinal hemorrhage or by evidence on fluorescein anglography. We believe cataract extraction may cause changes in the choroidal hemodynamics that allow pre-existing new blood vessels to leak or bleed, or induces the formation of choroidal neovascularization in a predisposed eye.", "contents": "Exacerbation of senile macular degeneration following cataract extraction. Six eyes in four patients had hemorrhagic detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium following cataract extraction. All eyes had evidence of nonexudative senile macular degeneration preoperatively as manifested by drusen or alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium, or both. Postoperatively, all eyes had evidence of a subretinal neovascular membrane manifested by the presence of subretinal hemorrhage or by evidence on fluorescein anglography. We believe cataract extraction may cause changes in the choroidal hemodynamics that allow pre-existing new blood vessels to leak or bleed, or induces the formation of choroidal neovascularization in a predisposed eye.", "PMID": 434056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1931", "title": "The use of strontium-90 in the treatment of carcinoma in situ of the conjunctiva.", "content": "Four patients with carcinoma in situ were treated with strontium-90 beta ray application. The dose used was 4,500 rads after surgical removal or with small recurrent tumor and 7,000 rads for primary treatment. All patients were disease-free at follow-up periods of 48 to 320 months after treatment. One patient required superficial x-ray treatment for recurrent disease. No serious complications developed with the treatment and no progressive cataracts have occurred.", "contents": "The use of strontium-90 in the treatment of carcinoma in situ of the conjunctiva. Four patients with carcinoma in situ were treated with strontium-90 beta ray application. The dose used was 4,500 rads after surgical removal or with small recurrent tumor and 7,000 rads for primary treatment. All patients were disease-free at follow-up periods of 48 to 320 months after treatment. One patient required superficial x-ray treatment for recurrent disease. No serious complications developed with the treatment and no progressive cataracts have occurred.", "PMID": 434057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1932", "title": "Monocular vertical nystagmus as an initial sign of chiasmal glioma.", "content": "A 5-year-old boy with monocular vertical nystagmus, initially believed to have spasmus nutans, subsequently developed optic atrophy and visual loss. Neuroradiologic investigation indicated probable chiasmal glioma. The case of this patient re-emphasizes the necessity of careful clinical and radiologic assessment before assuming acquired monocular nystagmus to be a benign and self-limited disorder.", "contents": "Monocular vertical nystagmus as an initial sign of chiasmal glioma. A 5-year-old boy with monocular vertical nystagmus, initially believed to have spasmus nutans, subsequently developed optic atrophy and visual loss. Neuroradiologic investigation indicated probable chiasmal glioma. The case of this patient re-emphasizes the necessity of careful clinical and radiologic assessment before assuming acquired monocular nystagmus to be a benign and self-limited disorder.", "PMID": 434058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1933", "title": "Opticociliary veins in a primary optic nerve sheath meningioma.", "content": "A 59-year-old man developed painless visual loss in his left eye over a one-year period, with rapid progression to blindness over three months. Ocular examination of the left eye revealed proptosis, marked optic disk pallor, dilated retinal veins, and congeries of vessels at the disk margin (opticociliary veins). His right eye was unremarkable. Fluorescein angiography and histopathologic examination confirmed the presence of opticociliary veins communicating between branches of the central retinal vein and the adjacent choroidal vasculature. Primary orbital optic nerve meningioma associated with opticociliary veins was diagnosed.", "contents": "Opticociliary veins in a primary optic nerve sheath meningioma. A 59-year-old man developed painless visual loss in his left eye over a one-year period, with rapid progression to blindness over three months. Ocular examination of the left eye revealed proptosis, marked optic disk pallor, dilated retinal veins, and congeries of vessels at the disk margin (opticociliary veins). His right eye was unremarkable. Fluorescein angiography and histopathologic examination confirmed the presence of opticociliary veins communicating between branches of the central retinal vein and the adjacent choroidal vasculature. Primary orbital optic nerve meningioma associated with opticociliary veins was diagnosed.", "PMID": 434059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1934", "title": "Hemorrhage into retinoschisis diagnosed as malignant melanoma.", "content": "A 55-year-old man had organized hemorrhage into retinoschisis that simulated malignant melanoma both clinically and with ultrasonography. The correct diagnosis was made histopathologically after enucleation.", "contents": "Hemorrhage into retinoschisis diagnosed as malignant melanoma. A 55-year-old man had organized hemorrhage into retinoschisis that simulated malignant melanoma both clinically and with ultrasonography. The correct diagnosis was made histopathologically after enucleation.", "PMID": 434060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1935", "title": "Learning scleral depression with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy.", "content": "Scleral depression with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy will be easier to learn if the examiner observes the patient's pupillary reflex through the ophthalmoscope without looking through the hand-held condensing lens. When the tip of the scleral depressor is properly positioned the pupillary reflex will darken slightly. If the condensing lens is then moved into position the actual scleral depression will be visible.", "contents": "Learning scleral depression with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Scleral depression with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy will be easier to learn if the examiner observes the patient's pupillary reflex through the ophthalmoscope without looking through the hand-held condensing lens. When the tip of the scleral depressor is properly positioned the pupillary reflex will darken slightly. If the condensing lens is then moved into position the actual scleral depression will be visible.", "PMID": 434061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1936", "title": "Fixation of cadaver eyes for surgical practice.", "content": "Cadaver eyes for surgical practice may be prepared by melting No. 7 dental wax in a 1-ounce medicine glass and fixing the globe with melted dental wax. The preparation is then placed in a styrofoam wig stand with openings prepared for the medicine glass.", "contents": "Fixation of cadaver eyes for surgical practice. Cadaver eyes for surgical practice may be prepared by melting No. 7 dental wax in a 1-ounce medicine glass and fixing the globe with melted dental wax. The preparation is then placed in a styrofoam wig stand with openings prepared for the medicine glass.", "PMID": 434062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1937", "title": "Lens implantation, miosis, and glaucoma.", "content": "In a series of 1,079 patients, average age 76.3 years, 48 eyes required an iridoplasty for chronic miosis and, of these, visual acuity was 6/12 (20/40) or better postoperatively in 89.6% (43). In those patients with glaucoma, the control of intraocular pressure was the same or better than post-operative levels in 83.3% (15) of patients. Lens implantation was not contraindicated in the miotic patient if adequate iris surgery was performed before both cataract extraction and implant insertion. When there was concomitant glaucoma, lens implantation was likewise not contraindicated if the glaucoma was well controlled.", "contents": "Lens implantation, miosis, and glaucoma. In a series of 1,079 patients, average age 76.3 years, 48 eyes required an iridoplasty for chronic miosis and, of these, visual acuity was 6/12 (20/40) or better postoperatively in 89.6% (43). In those patients with glaucoma, the control of intraocular pressure was the same or better than post-operative levels in 83.3% (15) of patients. Lens implantation was not contraindicated in the miotic patient if adequate iris surgery was performed before both cataract extraction and implant insertion. When there was concomitant glaucoma, lens implantation was likewise not contraindicated if the glaucoma was well controlled.", "PMID": 434063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1938", "title": "Cataract extraction in glaucoma.", "content": "Cyclodialysis lens extraction or cyclodialysis canalicular trabeculectomy lens extraction in one eye and cataract extraction in the fellow eye were performed in 24 glaucoma patients. The combined procedure follow-up was from five to 12 years in the first group, two to four years in the second group, and from three to ten years in the control group. The 50% success rate of cyclodialysis lens extraction can be enhanced with no significant increase in surgical morbidity or postoperative complications by performing a cyclodialysis canalicular trabeculectomy where the disinsertion of the scleral spur is carried out under direct visualization.", "contents": "Cataract extraction in glaucoma. Cyclodialysis lens extraction or cyclodialysis canalicular trabeculectomy lens extraction in one eye and cataract extraction in the fellow eye were performed in 24 glaucoma patients. The combined procedure follow-up was from five to 12 years in the first group, two to four years in the second group, and from three to ten years in the control group. The 50% success rate of cyclodialysis lens extraction can be enhanced with no significant increase in surgical morbidity or postoperative complications by performing a cyclodialysis canalicular trabeculectomy where the disinsertion of the scleral spur is carried out under direct visualization.", "PMID": 434064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1939", "title": "The clinical course of serpiginous choroidopathy.", "content": "We closely observed nine patients (17 eyes) with serpiginous choroidopathy for time periods ranging from two to ten years. There were seven men and two women with ages ranging from 22 to 58 years, average age was 46 years. Eight patients were bilaterally affected; one patient had only one eye. The clinical course of the disease was characterized by multiple recurrences. The recurrences and progression of the disease often were not noticed by patients if the macular area was not involved. Serial fundus photographs proved to be invaluable in establishing progression. Although the disease usually progresses in a centrifugal manner from the disk toward the periphery, three patients demonstrated centripetal progression and one of these three permanently lost central acuity. Visual acuity was affected only when the foveal or parafoveal areas became involved, but in nine of the 17 eyes, visual acuity returned to a variable degree. None of the patients had any general systemic illness. However, five of the patients reported chronic exposure to an unusual variety of chemicals.", "contents": "The clinical course of serpiginous choroidopathy. We closely observed nine patients (17 eyes) with serpiginous choroidopathy for time periods ranging from two to ten years. There were seven men and two women with ages ranging from 22 to 58 years, average age was 46 years. Eight patients were bilaterally affected; one patient had only one eye. The clinical course of the disease was characterized by multiple recurrences. The recurrences and progression of the disease often were not noticed by patients if the macular area was not involved. Serial fundus photographs proved to be invaluable in establishing progression. Although the disease usually progresses in a centrifugal manner from the disk toward the periphery, three patients demonstrated centripetal progression and one of these three permanently lost central acuity. Visual acuity was affected only when the foveal or parafoveal areas became involved, but in nine of the 17 eyes, visual acuity returned to a variable degree. None of the patients had any general systemic illness. However, five of the patients reported chronic exposure to an unusual variety of chemicals.", "PMID": 434065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1940", "title": "Lysozyme content of tears in patients with Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "In 37 patients and 143 control patients we estimated tear fluid lysozyme content by the Micrococcus lysodeikticus agar diffusion assay. We found no correlation between the titer of lysozyme in tear fluid and the rate of tear flow. Decrease in lysozyme production was found to be a sensitive indicator of the involvement of the lacrimal system in Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "contents": "Lysozyme content of tears in patients with Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. In 37 patients and 143 control patients we estimated tear fluid lysozyme content by the Micrococcus lysodeikticus agar diffusion assay. We found no correlation between the titer of lysozyme in tear fluid and the rate of tear flow. Decrease in lysozyme production was found to be a sensitive indicator of the involvement of the lacrimal system in Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "PMID": 434066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1941", "title": "Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy.", "content": "At age 26 years a woman who had been blind in the left eye from birth had visual acuity of R.E.: 6/18 (20/60); L.E.: 6/120 (20/400), with 40 prism diopters of left exotropia. The left eye showed a decreased anteroposterior diameter of the globe and a complete retinal detachment behind a cataractous lens. The right eye had a posterior subcapsular lens opacity severe vitreous fibrosis, dragging of the optic disk, and intraretinal and subretinal exudation with a fibrovascular mass in the temporal retina. The patient's 3-year-old daughter had 45 to 50 prism diopters of exotropia, a pendular nystagmus with intraretinal and subretinal dragging of each disk, and early degeneration and band formation in the periphery of each fundus.", "contents": "Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. At age 26 years a woman who had been blind in the left eye from birth had visual acuity of R.E.: 6/18 (20/60); L.E.: 6/120 (20/400), with 40 prism diopters of left exotropia. The left eye showed a decreased anteroposterior diameter of the globe and a complete retinal detachment behind a cataractous lens. The right eye had a posterior subcapsular lens opacity severe vitreous fibrosis, dragging of the optic disk, and intraretinal and subretinal exudation with a fibrovascular mass in the temporal retina. The patient's 3-year-old daughter had 45 to 50 prism diopters of exotropia, a pendular nystagmus with intraretinal and subretinal dragging of each disk, and early degeneration and band formation in the periphery of each fundus.", "PMID": 434067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1942", "title": "Multifocal retinopathy in Borna disease virus infected rabbits.", "content": "Experimental infection of rabbits with Borna disease virus led in all cases to a multifocal retinopathy that paralleled the clinical neurologic symptoms. The retinal changes always became evident first in the lower anterior quadrant of the eye. Infectious virus and antigen were detected in altered and unaltered regions of the retina. Individual chorioretinal lesions showed destruction of the pigment epithelium and the photoreceptors and perivascular inflammation close to small choroidal veins. Because of maximal antigen accumulation and the focal destruction of the retinal pigment epithelium we consider this cell layer to be the initially damaged structure.", "contents": "Multifocal retinopathy in Borna disease virus infected rabbits. Experimental infection of rabbits with Borna disease virus led in all cases to a multifocal retinopathy that paralleled the clinical neurologic symptoms. The retinal changes always became evident first in the lower anterior quadrant of the eye. Infectious virus and antigen were detected in altered and unaltered regions of the retina. Individual chorioretinal lesions showed destruction of the pigment epithelium and the photoreceptors and perivascular inflammation close to small choroidal veins. Because of maximal antigen accumulation and the focal destruction of the retinal pigment epithelium we consider this cell layer to be the initially damaged structure.", "PMID": 434068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1943", "title": "Number of type of inflammatory cells in conjunctiva of asymptomatic contact lens wearers.", "content": "Biopsy specimens were taken from the upper tarsal conjunctiva of eight asymptomatic contact lens wearers and quantitative histology was determined and compared to histology from 15 normals and 55 patients with contact lens-induced giant papillary conjunctivitis. No abnormalities were detected in the asymptomatic contact lens wearers. One or more of the three tissue characteristics of giant papillary conjunctivitis--(1) mast cells in the epithelium, (2) eosinophils in epithelium or substantia propria, and (3) basophils in epithelium or substantia propria--was found in all patients with this syndrome, but none was present in any of the eight asymptomatic lens wearers. Trauma occurring over months or even years does not induce histologic alteration in the upper tarsal conjunctiva; the surface changes seen previously by scanning electron microscopy in asymptomatic lens wearers are secondary to trauma, not early aspects of the giant papillary conjunctivitis syndrome.", "contents": "Number of type of inflammatory cells in conjunctiva of asymptomatic contact lens wearers. Biopsy specimens were taken from the upper tarsal conjunctiva of eight asymptomatic contact lens wearers and quantitative histology was determined and compared to histology from 15 normals and 55 patients with contact lens-induced giant papillary conjunctivitis. No abnormalities were detected in the asymptomatic contact lens wearers. One or more of the three tissue characteristics of giant papillary conjunctivitis--(1) mast cells in the epithelium, (2) eosinophils in epithelium or substantia propria, and (3) basophils in epithelium or substantia propria--was found in all patients with this syndrome, but none was present in any of the eight asymptomatic lens wearers. Trauma occurring over months or even years does not induce histologic alteration in the upper tarsal conjunctiva; the surface changes seen previously by scanning electron microscopy in asymptomatic lens wearers are secondary to trauma, not early aspects of the giant papillary conjunctivitis syndrome.", "PMID": 434069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1944", "title": "Interstitial keratitis caused by American (mucocutaneous) leishmaniasis.", "content": "A 58-year-old man with American (mucocutaneous) leishmaniasis had the unusual ocular complication of interstitial keratitis. Although the parasite was not identified, clinical laboratory and histologic findings were compatible with leishmaniasis, and tests ruled out other causes. Ulcerative areas improved after treatment with 1 g of amphotericin B.", "contents": "Interstitial keratitis caused by American (mucocutaneous) leishmaniasis. A 58-year-old man with American (mucocutaneous) leishmaniasis had the unusual ocular complication of interstitial keratitis. Although the parasite was not identified, clinical laboratory and histologic findings were compatible with leishmaniasis, and tests ruled out other causes. Ulcerative areas improved after treatment with 1 g of amphotericin B.", "PMID": 434070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1945", "title": "Infection after sponge implantation for scleral buckling.", "content": "In one series of 900 explant scleral buckling procedures, 31 had to be removed over seven years because of contamination. Of 1,000 explants from a parallel series, 27 had to be removed. In the second series, requirement of a sterile conjunctiva preoperatively and the use of prophylactic antibiotics postoperatively did not significantly reduce the rate of infection.", "contents": "Infection after sponge implantation for scleral buckling. In one series of 900 explant scleral buckling procedures, 31 had to be removed over seven years because of contamination. Of 1,000 explants from a parallel series, 27 had to be removed. In the second series, requirement of a sterile conjunctiva preoperatively and the use of prophylactic antibiotics postoperatively did not significantly reduce the rate of infection.", "PMID": 434071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1946", "title": "Foveal hypoplasia and bilateral 360-degree peripheral retinal rosettes.", "content": "A 24-year-old woman had bilateral pendular nystagmus, foveal hypoplasia, 360-degree peripheral retinal rosettes, and hypoplastic ora serrata of nongenetic origin. Kinetic perimetry revealed a generalized constriction of the field. Flicker perimetry revealed general depression of the critical flicker frequencies in the entire field. A slight increase of the threshold for light sensitivity after dark adaptation was noted from 10 to 30 degrees. Haidinger brush phenomenon was abnormal. Color vision was normal. The electroretinogram revealed mild abnormalities in the photopic flicker response. The visual-evoked response, recorded by local macular stimulation, was abnormal. The relationship of foveal hypoplasia to peripheral retinal rosettes in this case may have been caused by an intercurrent infection during the late stages of embryogenesis.", "contents": "Foveal hypoplasia and bilateral 360-degree peripheral retinal rosettes. A 24-year-old woman had bilateral pendular nystagmus, foveal hypoplasia, 360-degree peripheral retinal rosettes, and hypoplastic ora serrata of nongenetic origin. Kinetic perimetry revealed a generalized constriction of the field. Flicker perimetry revealed general depression of the critical flicker frequencies in the entire field. A slight increase of the threshold for light sensitivity after dark adaptation was noted from 10 to 30 degrees. Haidinger brush phenomenon was abnormal. Color vision was normal. The electroretinogram revealed mild abnormalities in the photopic flicker response. The visual-evoked response, recorded by local macular stimulation, was abnormal. The relationship of foveal hypoplasia to peripheral retinal rosettes in this case may have been caused by an intercurrent infection during the late stages of embryogenesis.", "PMID": 434072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1947", "title": "Idoxuridine and bacterial corneal infection.", "content": "Corneas of 20 rabbits were treated with idoxuridine or a bland ointment before and after their inoculation with Staphylococcus aureus. The rabbit corneas treated with idoxuridine had a significantly more severe keratitis and yielded significantly greater numbers of S. aureus on culture than the rabbit corneas treated with the bland ointment.", "contents": "Idoxuridine and bacterial corneal infection. Corneas of 20 rabbits were treated with idoxuridine or a bland ointment before and after their inoculation with Staphylococcus aureus. The rabbit corneas treated with idoxuridine had a significantly more severe keratitis and yielded significantly greater numbers of S. aureus on culture than the rabbit corneas treated with the bland ointment.", "PMID": 434073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1948", "title": "Primary radiation therapy for meibomian gland carcinoma.", "content": "Three patients with Meibomian gland carcinoma were treated initially with irradiation. This therapy was palliative in one case that eventually required orbital exenteration because of recurrent disease. A second patient was clinically tumor-free ten months after treatment when he died of a myocardial infarction. The third patient has shown no evidence of recurrent disease in the 25 months since treatment.", "contents": "Primary radiation therapy for meibomian gland carcinoma. Three patients with Meibomian gland carcinoma were treated initially with irradiation. This therapy was palliative in one case that eventually required orbital exenteration because of recurrent disease. A second patient was clinically tumor-free ten months after treatment when he died of a myocardial infarction. The third patient has shown no evidence of recurrent disease in the 25 months since treatment.", "PMID": 434074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1949", "title": "Optic atrophy in acute intermittent porphyria.", "content": "A 24-year-old woman developed bilateral blindness after recovery from coma secondary to acute intermittent porphyria. Gradual return of vision in the right eye with a permanent unilateral visual field defect and optic atrophy followed. We believe the pathophysiologic mechanism was spasm of the vessels supplying the optic disk leading to ischemia and infarction of the optic nerve.", "contents": "Optic atrophy in acute intermittent porphyria. A 24-year-old woman developed bilateral blindness after recovery from coma secondary to acute intermittent porphyria. Gradual return of vision in the right eye with a permanent unilateral visual field defect and optic atrophy followed. We believe the pathophysiologic mechanism was spasm of the vessels supplying the optic disk leading to ischemia and infarction of the optic nerve.", "PMID": 434076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1950", "title": "Oculomotor nerve regeneration after aneurysm surgery.", "content": "A 57-year-old woman had symptoms of oculomotor nerve palsy first appearing one year before successful surgical ligation of a saccular aneurysm arising from the right posterior cerebral artery. During the subsequent postoperative period of two years, oculomotor nerve functions improved as the result of regeneration. Extensive morphometric evaluation of the regenerated nerve was compared to the normal side at the light microscopic level. The affected nerve showed a reduction in the transverse area (62%), estimated number of fibers (49%), and mean diameter of myelinated axons (23%). The normal g-ratio of axon to total diameter was almost constant at 0.64, but on the regenerated side it increased to 0.73. An increase in unmyelinated axons and connective tissue endoneurium was evident at the ultrastructural level. The significance of these marked quantitative changes was compared to the partial return of oculomotor nerve function.", "contents": "Oculomotor nerve regeneration after aneurysm surgery. A 57-year-old woman had symptoms of oculomotor nerve palsy first appearing one year before successful surgical ligation of a saccular aneurysm arising from the right posterior cerebral artery. During the subsequent postoperative period of two years, oculomotor nerve functions improved as the result of regeneration. Extensive morphometric evaluation of the regenerated nerve was compared to the normal side at the light microscopic level. The affected nerve showed a reduction in the transverse area (62%), estimated number of fibers (49%), and mean diameter of myelinated axons (23%). The normal g-ratio of axon to total diameter was almost constant at 0.64, but on the regenerated side it increased to 0.73. An increase in unmyelinated axons and connective tissue endoneurium was evident at the ultrastructural level. The significance of these marked quantitative changes was compared to the partial return of oculomotor nerve function.", "PMID": 434077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1951", "title": "Removal of preretinal blood during vitrectomy.", "content": "To remove preretinal blood from the posterior pole, balanced salt solution is irrigated into the eye through a 21-gauge needle. The needle previously used for infusion is used as a port of exit. I have treated seven patients with this method without harmful effects.", "contents": "Removal of preretinal blood during vitrectomy. To remove preretinal blood from the posterior pole, balanced salt solution is irrigated into the eye through a 21-gauge needle. The needle previously used for infusion is used as a port of exit. I have treated seven patients with this method without harmful effects.", "PMID": 434078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1952", "title": "Errors in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma of the choroid.", "content": "We reviewed our consultations and enucleations for suspected choroidal melanomas from 1954 through 1977. Among 876 eyes enucleated here during that period, 203 contained malignant melanomas; among these were 172 with melanomas of the choroid. Eighteen additional eyes contained melanomas of the anterior uvea. Six melanomas were clinically unsuspected. These unsuspected cases represented 2.6% of the 233 eyes in this series of enucleated eyes that were removed because of painful glaucoma, and 3.2% of the 190 uveal melanomas. Our study included eyes enucleated elsewhere after a clinical diagnosis of malignant melanoma was made here. Six of 224 eyes enucleated for clinically suspected melanoma were found to have mimicking lesions, a misdiagnosis rate of 2.7%. Two additional eyes were misdiagnosed as having simulating lesions before histologic confirmation of malignant melanoma after enucleation elsewhere.", "contents": "Errors in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma of the choroid. We reviewed our consultations and enucleations for suspected choroidal melanomas from 1954 through 1977. Among 876 eyes enucleated here during that period, 203 contained malignant melanomas; among these were 172 with melanomas of the choroid. Eighteen additional eyes contained melanomas of the anterior uvea. Six melanomas were clinically unsuspected. These unsuspected cases represented 2.6% of the 233 eyes in this series of enucleated eyes that were removed because of painful glaucoma, and 3.2% of the 190 uveal melanomas. Our study included eyes enucleated elsewhere after a clinical diagnosis of malignant melanoma was made here. Six of 224 eyes enucleated for clinically suspected melanoma were found to have mimicking lesions, a misdiagnosis rate of 2.7%. Two additional eyes were misdiagnosed as having simulating lesions before histologic confirmation of malignant melanoma after enucleation elsewhere.", "PMID": 434084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1953", "title": "Anterior polar cataracts associated with bilateral retinoblastoma.", "content": "A 13-month-old girl had bilateral congenital cataracts at four days after birth. At age 4 months the cataract in her right eye was observed by her mother to enlarge and change in color. Examination of the fundus disclosed a large yellow mass. The eye was subsequently enucleated and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of retinoblastoma associated with anterior polar cataract. On routine examination at age 13 months multiple tumors were observed in the fundus of the left eye, and were successfully treated by external beam irradiation. This is the second case reported.", "contents": "Anterior polar cataracts associated with bilateral retinoblastoma. A 13-month-old girl had bilateral congenital cataracts at four days after birth. At age 4 months the cataract in her right eye was observed by her mother to enlarge and change in color. Examination of the fundus disclosed a large yellow mass. The eye was subsequently enucleated and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of retinoblastoma associated with anterior polar cataract. On routine examination at age 13 months multiple tumors were observed in the fundus of the left eye, and were successfully treated by external beam irradiation. This is the second case reported.", "PMID": 434085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1954", "title": "Amaurosis fugax associated with SC hemoglobinopathy and lupus erythematosus.", "content": "A 23-year-old woman with SC hemoglobinopathy and systemic lupus erythematosus had recurrent amaurosis fugax in her right eye. Extraordinary retinal vascular events were observed and photographed during the amaurotic attacks. Prednisone therapy halted the attacks. We believe a focal lupus vasculopathy involving the central retinal artery caused the amaurosis fugax.", "contents": "Amaurosis fugax associated with SC hemoglobinopathy and lupus erythematosus. A 23-year-old woman with SC hemoglobinopathy and systemic lupus erythematosus had recurrent amaurosis fugax in her right eye. Extraordinary retinal vascular events were observed and photographed during the amaurotic attacks. Prednisone therapy halted the attacks. We believe a focal lupus vasculopathy involving the central retinal artery caused the amaurosis fugax.", "PMID": 434086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1955", "title": "Hereditary pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy.", "content": "A father and son with pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy demonstrated the classical fundus appearance of bilateral sharply circumscribed patches of retinochoroidal atrophy and pigmentation along the retinal veins. Our patients, and the preponderance of males in previously reported cases of this disease, suggest the possibility of Y-chromosome mediated male-to-male transmission. Electrophysiologic findings in our patients included elevated dark-adaptation thresholds, slightly reduced electroretinographic amplitudes, slightly prolonged a- and b-wave implicit times, and (in Case 1) abnormal electro-oculographic ratios. These findings indicate a diffuse tapetoretinal degeneration, and suggest that pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy is another incomplete form of retinitis pigmentosa.", "contents": "Hereditary pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy. A father and son with pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy demonstrated the classical fundus appearance of bilateral sharply circumscribed patches of retinochoroidal atrophy and pigmentation along the retinal veins. Our patients, and the preponderance of males in previously reported cases of this disease, suggest the possibility of Y-chromosome mediated male-to-male transmission. Electrophysiologic findings in our patients included elevated dark-adaptation thresholds, slightly reduced electroretinographic amplitudes, slightly prolonged a- and b-wave implicit times, and (in Case 1) abnormal electro-oculographic ratios. These findings indicate a diffuse tapetoretinal degeneration, and suggest that pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy is another incomplete form of retinitis pigmentosa.", "PMID": 434087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1956", "title": "Clinical evaluation of an inexpensive ultrasound oculometer for ocular biometry.", "content": "We measured anterior chamber depth and axial length in 200 human eyes with the Echo-Oculometer and the Digital Biometric Ruler. There was good agreement between measurements with the two instruments. The echo-Oculometer is much less expensive than any other instrument available for measuring ocular axial length and satisfactorily provides information for calculation of power of intraocular lenses.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation of an inexpensive ultrasound oculometer for ocular biometry. We measured anterior chamber depth and axial length in 200 human eyes with the Echo-Oculometer and the Digital Biometric Ruler. There was good agreement between measurements with the two instruments. The echo-Oculometer is much less expensive than any other instrument available for measuring ocular axial length and satisfactorily provides information for calculation of power of intraocular lenses.", "PMID": 434088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1957", "title": "Superficial punctate keratitis of Thygeson associated with scarring and Salzmann's nodular degeneration.", "content": "A 59-year-old woman with superficial punctate keratitis of Thygeson was observed for 14 years. The patient was treated intermittently with topical corticosteroids and artificial tears. Immediate symptomatic relief was followed by multiple recurrences and exacerbations. This case was atypical because of its prolonged clinical course and development of permanent, subepithelial corneal scarring, and elevated lesions resembling Salzmann's nodular degeneration.", "contents": "Superficial punctate keratitis of Thygeson associated with scarring and Salzmann's nodular degeneration. A 59-year-old woman with superficial punctate keratitis of Thygeson was observed for 14 years. The patient was treated intermittently with topical corticosteroids and artificial tears. Immediate symptomatic relief was followed by multiple recurrences and exacerbations. This case was atypical because of its prolonged clinical course and development of permanent, subepithelial corneal scarring, and elevated lesions resembling Salzmann's nodular degeneration.", "PMID": 434089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1958", "title": "Lymphocyte stimulation by yeast phase Histoplasma capsulatum in presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.", "content": "We measured skin reactions serum antibody, and lymphocyte stimulation to Histoplasma antigens in a series of patients with presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome and in controls. The most sensitive test, lymphocyte stimulation to H. capsulatum sonicate, also correlated with severity of the disease. Lymphocyte stimulation to Histoplasma may be a useful adjunct to the monitoring of presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.", "contents": "Lymphocyte stimulation by yeast phase Histoplasma capsulatum in presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome. We measured skin reactions serum antibody, and lymphocyte stimulation to Histoplasma antigens in a series of patients with presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome and in controls. The most sensitive test, lymphocyte stimulation to H. capsulatum sonicate, also correlated with severity of the disease. Lymphocyte stimulation to Histoplasma may be a useful adjunct to the monitoring of presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.", "PMID": 434090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1959", "title": "Hazards of bilateral intraocular lens implantation.", "content": "Seven patients had bilateral intraocular lens implantation performed with a short interval between procedures, using intraocular lenses of unproven design or deficient quality control All seven patients suffered severe visual impairment, some to the level of legal blindness in both eyes. Lenses with unproven design characteristics should never be implanted in both eyes of a patients. The interval between the first and second procedure, even when using lenses of proven design and quality, should be long enough to insure the long-term successful outcome of the first procedure.", "contents": "Hazards of bilateral intraocular lens implantation. Seven patients had bilateral intraocular lens implantation performed with a short interval between procedures, using intraocular lenses of unproven design or deficient quality control All seven patients suffered severe visual impairment, some to the level of legal blindness in both eyes. Lenses with unproven design characteristics should never be implanted in both eyes of a patients. The interval between the first and second procedure, even when using lenses of proven design and quality, should be long enough to insure the long-term successful outcome of the first procedure.", "PMID": 434091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1960", "title": "Vitamin A-responsive punctate keratopathy in xerophthalmia.", "content": "Slit-lamp examination of 78 cases of xerophthalmia and 29 controls matched for age, sex, and locale indicated a direct correlation between the presence, density, and extent of punctate epithelial keratopathy and the severity of corneal and noncorneal involvement. Only 7% (four or 58) of control eyes but 60% (six of ten) of cases with confirmed night blindness, 75% (47 of 63) of eyes with conjunctival xerosis, and all eyes with corneal xerosis (47) were affected. Within one week of high-dose systemic vitamin A therapy all affected corneas had improved. None of ten patients receiving low-dose systemic therapy showed any improvement over a two-month period, whereas 61% of involved corneas actually deteriorated in the interim. Punctate epithelial keraptopathy appears to be the earliest corneal manifestation of xerophthalmia, and is already present in the vast majority of cases classically considered free of corneal involvement.", "contents": "Vitamin A-responsive punctate keratopathy in xerophthalmia. Slit-lamp examination of 78 cases of xerophthalmia and 29 controls matched for age, sex, and locale indicated a direct correlation between the presence, density, and extent of punctate epithelial keratopathy and the severity of corneal and noncorneal involvement. Only 7% (four or 58) of control eyes but 60% (six of ten) of cases with confirmed night blindness, 75% (47 of 63) of eyes with conjunctival xerosis, and all eyes with corneal xerosis (47) were affected. Within one week of high-dose systemic vitamin A therapy all affected corneas had improved. None of ten patients receiving low-dose systemic therapy showed any improvement over a two-month period, whereas 61% of involved corneas actually deteriorated in the interim. Punctate epithelial keraptopathy appears to be the earliest corneal manifestation of xerophthalmia, and is already present in the vast majority of cases classically considered free of corneal involvement.", "PMID": 434092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1961", "title": "Talc emboli and retinal neovascularization in a drug abuser.", "content": "A 38-year-old male drug abuser had multiple emboli in the retinal circulation of the posterior pole of both eyes. He showed widespread peripheral retinal capillary nonperfusion and neovascular proliferation at the junction of perfused and nonperfused retina. The emboli were considered to be talc particles from the intravenous administration of suspensions of oral medications. The presumed mechanism of development of neovascularization in this case was the filtering out of the particles by the retinal vasculature with vaso-occlusion, ischemia and subsequent retinal neovascularization.", "contents": "Talc emboli and retinal neovascularization in a drug abuser. A 38-year-old male drug abuser had multiple emboli in the retinal circulation of the posterior pole of both eyes. He showed widespread peripheral retinal capillary nonperfusion and neovascular proliferation at the junction of perfused and nonperfused retina. The emboli were considered to be talc particles from the intravenous administration of suspensions of oral medications. The presumed mechanism of development of neovascularization in this case was the filtering out of the particles by the retinal vasculature with vaso-occlusion, ischemia and subsequent retinal neovascularization.", "PMID": 434093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1962", "title": "Gentian violet keratoconjunctivitis.", "content": "A case of bilateral keratoconjunctivitis caused by self-instillation of a 1% aqueous solution of gentian violet was complicated by a secondary uveitis and gram-negative conjunctivitis. The patient was treated with cycloplegics and specific antibiotics and after resolution of the bacterial infection, a mild topical corticosteroid was used. After six months the patient had completely recovered from the keratitis, but bilateral corneal vascularization, had unilateral posterior synechiae, corneal scarring, and cataract formation were present. Cationic dyes such as gentian violet appear to be toxic to the ocular surfaces and tend to produce severe intraocular inflammation.", "contents": "Gentian violet keratoconjunctivitis. A case of bilateral keratoconjunctivitis caused by self-instillation of a 1% aqueous solution of gentian violet was complicated by a secondary uveitis and gram-negative conjunctivitis. The patient was treated with cycloplegics and specific antibiotics and after resolution of the bacterial infection, a mild topical corticosteroid was used. After six months the patient had completely recovered from the keratitis, but bilateral corneal vascularization, had unilateral posterior synechiae, corneal scarring, and cataract formation were present. Cationic dyes such as gentian violet appear to be toxic to the ocular surfaces and tend to produce severe intraocular inflammation.", "PMID": 434094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1963", "title": "Vertical endothelial cell disparity.", "content": "Endothelial cell counts were performed postoperatively in superior, central, and inferior areas of the cornea in 59 patients. No regional differences were found in a series of 23 preoperative control cataract eyes. A definite, large density disparity was noted in 58 of the 59 postoperative corneas studied. Disparity was high nine years as well as two weeks postoperatively. These data indicated that necessity for accuracy of positioning in postoperative comparison studies and the necessity for regional cell counts before secondary surgical procedures.", "contents": "Vertical endothelial cell disparity. Endothelial cell counts were performed postoperatively in superior, central, and inferior areas of the cornea in 59 patients. No regional differences were found in a series of 23 preoperative control cataract eyes. A definite, large density disparity was noted in 58 of the 59 postoperative corneas studied. Disparity was high nine years as well as two weeks postoperatively. These data indicated that necessity for accuracy of positioning in postoperative comparison studies and the necessity for regional cell counts before secondary surgical procedures.", "PMID": 434095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1964", "title": "Long term follow-up study of a trachoma vaccine trial in villages of Northern India.", "content": "A field trial of two high titer bivalent trachoma vaccines was done in a rural area of Northern India in children under the age of 6 years. Three months later 310 of the original 451 children in the study received a booster vaccination of either of the two vaccines or a placebo. Both the sucrose gradient purified and the Genetron purified vaccine protected against trachoma infection for one year. Significant protection for two years was found only with the gradient vaccine. A 12-year follow-up study located and examined 201 subjects that had received booster vaccine. It was found that 31, 27, and 28% of the individuals in each of the three groups (two vaccine and placebo) had evidence of mostly minimally active trachoma. Additionally, from 6 to 10% of the subjects in each group had signs of mild to moderate potentially blinding sequelae. The results showed no protection by either vaccine, and there was no evidence of adverse effects from the vaccines.", "contents": "Long term follow-up study of a trachoma vaccine trial in villages of Northern India. A field trial of two high titer bivalent trachoma vaccines was done in a rural area of Northern India in children under the age of 6 years. Three months later 310 of the original 451 children in the study received a booster vaccination of either of the two vaccines or a placebo. Both the sucrose gradient purified and the Genetron purified vaccine protected against trachoma infection for one year. Significant protection for two years was found only with the gradient vaccine. A 12-year follow-up study located and examined 201 subjects that had received booster vaccine. It was found that 31, 27, and 28% of the individuals in each of the three groups (two vaccine and placebo) had evidence of mostly minimally active trachoma. Additionally, from 6 to 10% of the subjects in each group had signs of mild to moderate potentially blinding sequelae. The results showed no protection by either vaccine, and there was no evidence of adverse effects from the vaccines.", "PMID": 434096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1965", "title": "The ophthalmologic manifestations of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy.", "content": "Of 113 cases of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy, 13 patients had ophthalmic infiltrates. Eleven of the 13 had infiltrates in the orbital soft tissues, and five of these patients also had eyelid disease. One patient had infiltrates only within the eyelid, and one without disease in the orbit or eyelid had extensive infiltrates in the uveal tract. The microscopic differential diagnosis included a variety of lymphoreticular malignancies, storage diseases, histiocytosis X, rhinoscleroma, tuberculosis, and inflammatory pseudotumor of the orbit. These 13 patients with ophthalmic disease were similar clinically and pathologically to patients with sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy who did not have ophthalmic disease.", "contents": "The ophthalmologic manifestations of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy. Of 113 cases of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy, 13 patients had ophthalmic infiltrates. Eleven of the 13 had infiltrates in the orbital soft tissues, and five of these patients also had eyelid disease. One patient had infiltrates only within the eyelid, and one without disease in the orbit or eyelid had extensive infiltrates in the uveal tract. The microscopic differential diagnosis included a variety of lymphoreticular malignancies, storage diseases, histiocytosis X, rhinoscleroma, tuberculosis, and inflammatory pseudotumor of the orbit. These 13 patients with ophthalmic disease were similar clinically and pathologically to patients with sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy who did not have ophthalmic disease.", "PMID": 434097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1966", "title": "Leiomyoma of the orbit.", "content": "A 5-year-old boy had a one-year history of inability to adduct the left eye and redness. Examination showed a medial orbital mass indenting the globe without proptosis. A well-encapsulated mass was removed surgically. On light microscopy it seemed to be a neurofibroma. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the tumor was composed of cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, cytoplasmic and plasmalemmal densities, fine filaments, surface-connected vesicles, and basement membrane. These features were characteristic of leiomyoma.", "contents": "Leiomyoma of the orbit. A 5-year-old boy had a one-year history of inability to adduct the left eye and redness. Examination showed a medial orbital mass indenting the globe without proptosis. A well-encapsulated mass was removed surgically. On light microscopy it seemed to be a neurofibroma. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the tumor was composed of cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, cytoplasmic and plasmalemmal densities, fine filaments, surface-connected vesicles, and basement membrane. These features were characteristic of leiomyoma.", "PMID": 434098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1967", "title": "Prostaglandins in human tears.", "content": "We detected small quantities of prostaglandin F in tear fluid of patients with clinically normal conjunctivae. The prostaglandin F levels were significantly increased in tear fluid or patients with acute vernal conjunctivitis and chronic trachoma. We could not determine the source of prostaglandin in tears.", "contents": "Prostaglandins in human tears. We detected small quantities of prostaglandin F in tear fluid of patients with clinically normal conjunctivae. The prostaglandin F levels were significantly increased in tear fluid or patients with acute vernal conjunctivitis and chronic trachoma. We could not determine the source of prostaglandin in tears.", "PMID": 434099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1968", "title": "An ultrastructural, cytochemical, and autoradiographic study of the mucous membrane of the human cervical canal with reference to subcolumnar basal cells.", "content": "This study presents a detailed ultrastructural examination of the human endocervix with evidence for the differentiation of subcolumnar basal cells into mucus-secreting cells and ciliated columnar cells. Cytochemical studies in which peroxidatic activity was used indicate that there are two cell types in the endocervical mucosa which can be distinguished by different localization of reaction product. It may be that estrogen sensitivity accounts for such differences. Autoradiographic investigations demonstrated that glandular cells and subcolumnar basal cells synthesize DNA in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. In addition, subcolumnar basal cells actively synthesized RNA, reflecting their ability for further growth and development.", "contents": "An ultrastructural, cytochemical, and autoradiographic study of the mucous membrane of the human cervical canal with reference to subcolumnar basal cells. This study presents a detailed ultrastructural examination of the human endocervix with evidence for the differentiation of subcolumnar basal cells into mucus-secreting cells and ciliated columnar cells. Cytochemical studies in which peroxidatic activity was used indicate that there are two cell types in the endocervical mucosa which can be distinguished by different localization of reaction product. It may be that estrogen sensitivity accounts for such differences. Autoradiographic investigations demonstrated that glandular cells and subcolumnar basal cells synthesize DNA in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. In addition, subcolumnar basal cells actively synthesized RNA, reflecting their ability for further growth and development.", "PMID": 434105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1969", "title": "Role of endothelium and hypercholesterolemia in intimal thickening and lipid accumulation.", "content": "In experiments reported here we tested the hypothesis that persistent absence of endothelium favors intimal thickening, lipid accumulation, and atherosclerosis. Rabbit aortas were de-endothelialized with a balloon catheter at Day 0. Initially, all rabbits were fed a diet low in lipid. Some rabbits (Group I) were continued on a diet low in lipid for 8 to 20 weeks after de-endothelialization. Beginning 4 to 9 weeks after de-endothelialization, other rabbits were fed semisynthetic lipid-rich diets (Group II) or cholesterol-supplemented diets (Groups III) for 4 to 20 weeks. Lipid accumulation in all groups was significantly greater in the re-endothelialized intima than in adjacent intima lacking an endothelial lining. In aortas of Groups I, II, and III the degree of intimal thickening was significantly greater in re-endothelialized areas than in adjacent areas lacking endothelium. Intimal thickness was enhanced in re-endothelialized areas of hypercholesterolemic rabbits of Group III compared with normocholesterolemic rabbits of Group I but not in areas lacking endothelium. Thus, results of these experiments do not support the hypothesis that the absence of endothelium particularly favors intimal thickening and intimal lipid accumulation. Results indicate that intima covered by regenerated endothelium is significantly thicker and more likely to accumulate lipid.", "contents": "Role of endothelium and hypercholesterolemia in intimal thickening and lipid accumulation. In experiments reported here we tested the hypothesis that persistent absence of endothelium favors intimal thickening, lipid accumulation, and atherosclerosis. Rabbit aortas were de-endothelialized with a balloon catheter at Day 0. Initially, all rabbits were fed a diet low in lipid. Some rabbits (Group I) were continued on a diet low in lipid for 8 to 20 weeks after de-endothelialization. Beginning 4 to 9 weeks after de-endothelialization, other rabbits were fed semisynthetic lipid-rich diets (Group II) or cholesterol-supplemented diets (Groups III) for 4 to 20 weeks. Lipid accumulation in all groups was significantly greater in the re-endothelialized intima than in adjacent intima lacking an endothelial lining. In aortas of Groups I, II, and III the degree of intimal thickening was significantly greater in re-endothelialized areas than in adjacent areas lacking endothelium. Intimal thickness was enhanced in re-endothelialized areas of hypercholesterolemic rabbits of Group III compared with normocholesterolemic rabbits of Group I but not in areas lacking endothelium. Thus, results of these experiments do not support the hypothesis that the absence of endothelium particularly favors intimal thickening and intimal lipid accumulation. Results indicate that intima covered by regenerated endothelium is significantly thicker and more likely to accumulate lipid.", "PMID": 434106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1970", "title": "Cell interactions in the initial contact between cultured melanoma cells and syngeneic macrophages.", "content": "Thioglycolate-induces peritoneal macrophages from melanoma-bearing mice (immune macrophages) or from control mice (control macrophages) were cultured with syngeneic melanoma cells (P51) to determine the surface characteristics of the effector cells during interaction and destruction of the target cells. After a short culture period (3 hours), immune macrophages had extensive connections via filopodia and ruffled membranes to the surfaces of the melanoma cells; control macrophages did not exhibit the same behavior. A dense region in the cytoplasm immediately beneath the macrophage plasmalemma was observed at the point of contact with the target tumor cell. With longer periods of culture (24 hours), effector cells began phagocytosis of the target cells; immune macrophages, however, had more fine filopodial connections and were more cytostatic than were controls. These observations indicate that one of the initial mechanisms of tumor cell destruction was contact-induced lysis, with phagocytosis playing a minor part.", "contents": "Cell interactions in the initial contact between cultured melanoma cells and syngeneic macrophages. Thioglycolate-induces peritoneal macrophages from melanoma-bearing mice (immune macrophages) or from control mice (control macrophages) were cultured with syngeneic melanoma cells (P51) to determine the surface characteristics of the effector cells during interaction and destruction of the target cells. After a short culture period (3 hours), immune macrophages had extensive connections via filopodia and ruffled membranes to the surfaces of the melanoma cells; control macrophages did not exhibit the same behavior. A dense region in the cytoplasm immediately beneath the macrophage plasmalemma was observed at the point of contact with the target tumor cell. With longer periods of culture (24 hours), effector cells began phagocytosis of the target cells; immune macrophages, however, had more fine filopodial connections and were more cytostatic than were controls. These observations indicate that one of the initial mechanisms of tumor cell destruction was contact-induced lysis, with phagocytosis playing a minor part.", "PMID": 434107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1971", "title": "Pneumatosis pulmonalis: a complication of the idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome.", "content": "Interstitial emphysema of the lung is a well-recognized complication of the idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome. Its incidence has increased with the recent more aggressive therapy for this disease, and persistence of the emphysema in a large number of patients has been observed. This report describes the clinical complications, changes in the roentgenographic pattern, and, particularly, the characteristic morphologic findings in these patients, which delineate persistent pulmonary emphysema as a distinct entity.", "contents": "Pneumatosis pulmonalis: a complication of the idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome. Interstitial emphysema of the lung is a well-recognized complication of the idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome. Its incidence has increased with the recent more aggressive therapy for this disease, and persistence of the emphysema in a large number of patients has been observed. This report describes the clinical complications, changes in the roentgenographic pattern, and, particularly, the characteristic morphologic findings in these patients, which delineate persistent pulmonary emphysema as a distinct entity.", "PMID": 434108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1972", "title": "Pulmonary morphology in a multihospital collaborative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation project. I. Light microscopy.", "content": "This report presents the light microscopic morphology found at autopsy in 59 patients who participated in an organized controlled trial of extracorporeal oxygenation as therapy for acute respiratory failure. Observations were recorded as objectively as possible and were analyzed by computer. The experimental therapy produced no specific alteration in the observed pulmonary lesions. Many of the lesions tabulated had significant correlation coefficients with time, all of which were higher when correlated with the duration of respiratory failure than with the duration of the entire acute illness. The rapid progression of the lesions to fibrosis is emphasized as is the predilection of both early and late lesions to involve alveolar ducts to a far greater degree than the distal alveolar spaces. A unifying mechanistic hypothesis consistent with these observations, as well as others, is that the lesions may result as much from oxygen damage as from the original acute illness.", "contents": "Pulmonary morphology in a multihospital collaborative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation project. I. Light microscopy. This report presents the light microscopic morphology found at autopsy in 59 patients who participated in an organized controlled trial of extracorporeal oxygenation as therapy for acute respiratory failure. Observations were recorded as objectively as possible and were analyzed by computer. The experimental therapy produced no specific alteration in the observed pulmonary lesions. Many of the lesions tabulated had significant correlation coefficients with time, all of which were higher when correlated with the duration of respiratory failure than with the duration of the entire acute illness. The rapid progression of the lesions to fibrosis is emphasized as is the predilection of both early and late lesions to involve alveolar ducts to a far greater degree than the distal alveolar spaces. A unifying mechanistic hypothesis consistent with these observations, as well as others, is that the lesions may result as much from oxygen damage as from the original acute illness.", "PMID": 434109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1973", "title": "Myelin deficiency (md): a neurologic mutant in the Wistar rat.", "content": "Myelin deficiency (md), a newly discovered neurologic mutation in the Wistar rat, is transmitted by an X-linked, recessive lethal gene. Male rats are affected, and the first symptom is a head tremor recognizable at 12 to 15 days of age. The tremors become generalized within a few days and disappear when the animal is at rest. In the later stages, from 17 to 21 days of age, the slightest disturbance will precipitate a generalized seizure. Pups die within 30 days after birth. The only gross postmortem change is a gray color of the spinal cord instead of its normally white appearance. Microscopic findings reveal total lack of myelin formation at all levels of the central nervous system.", "contents": "Myelin deficiency (md): a neurologic mutant in the Wistar rat. Myelin deficiency (md), a newly discovered neurologic mutation in the Wistar rat, is transmitted by an X-linked, recessive lethal gene. Male rats are affected, and the first symptom is a head tremor recognizable at 12 to 15 days of age. The tremors become generalized within a few days and disappear when the animal is at rest. In the later stages, from 17 to 21 days of age, the slightest disturbance will precipitate a generalized seizure. Pups die within 30 days after birth. The only gross postmortem change is a gray color of the spinal cord instead of its normally white appearance. Microscopic findings reveal total lack of myelin formation at all levels of the central nervous system.", "PMID": 434110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1974", "title": "Pulmonary neutral fat embolism in dogs.", "content": "Twenty-two adult dogs were each given a single, 30-minute injection of 1.5 ml/kg body weight of pure triolein, and their pulmonary, hepatic, renal, and cerebral morphology was observed for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 15, 24, and 48 hours; 3,4, and 5 days; 1 and 2 weeks; and 1 month after the injection. A picture of massive capillary occlusion by lipid droplets was followed by rapidly resolvable inflammatory pneumopathy of granulomatous type, leaving a normal lung at the end of the experiment. The cleaning of the capillaries may be attributed to the mechanical action of the blood flow and to the inflammatory reaction with evacuation of necrotic cells via the bronchial route. Transient pulmonary edema is attributed to increased pulmonary arterial pressure. There was no intravacular coagulation. The few pulmonary lesions observed after the triolein injection suggest that the chemical theory of neutral fat hydrolysis by pulmonary lipase and the toxicity of free fatty acids that are released should be reconsidered.", "contents": "Pulmonary neutral fat embolism in dogs. Twenty-two adult dogs were each given a single, 30-minute injection of 1.5 ml/kg body weight of pure triolein, and their pulmonary, hepatic, renal, and cerebral morphology was observed for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 15, 24, and 48 hours; 3,4, and 5 days; 1 and 2 weeks; and 1 month after the injection. A picture of massive capillary occlusion by lipid droplets was followed by rapidly resolvable inflammatory pneumopathy of granulomatous type, leaving a normal lung at the end of the experiment. The cleaning of the capillaries may be attributed to the mechanical action of the blood flow and to the inflammatory reaction with evacuation of necrotic cells via the bronchial route. Transient pulmonary edema is attributed to increased pulmonary arterial pressure. There was no intravacular coagulation. The few pulmonary lesions observed after the triolein injection suggest that the chemical theory of neutral fat hydrolysis by pulmonary lipase and the toxicity of free fatty acids that are released should be reconsidered.", "PMID": 434112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1975", "title": "Absence of neutral protease and alkaline phosphatase in neutrophils of a case of hairy cell leukemia.", "content": "Enzymaticaly homogeneous fractions of lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils were isolated by zonal centrifugation from peripheral blood of a patient with hairy cell leukemia, or leukemic reticuloendotheliosis, LRE,(with leukopenia, neutropenia, lymphocytosis, and massive splenomegaly). To detect enzymatic deficiencies, the cells were analyzed quantitatively for six leukocytic enzymes on three occasions: 1) before splenectomy, 2) 5 days after splenectomy, and 3) 6 weeks after splenectomy. Before splenectomy, the patient's cells showed moderate deficiency of beta-glucuronidase in lymphocytes and monocytes; server to modorate deficiency of lysozyme and myeloperoxidase in monocytes and granulocytes; and complete absence of neutral protease and alkaline phosphates in neutrophils. Full restoration of neutral protease and a three-fold rise in alkaline phosphatase activities occurred in the patient's neutrophils 5 days after splenectomy. Lysozyme and myeloperoxidase returned to normal in both monocytes and neutrophils of the patient. Six weeks following splenectomy, the alkaline phosphatase activity again disappeared from patient's neutrophils, although neutral protease remained normal. The patient's lymphocytes were unresponsive to PHA and PW mitogen before splenectomy but became responsive 6 weeks postoperatively. Monocytic transfomation into macrophges was supressed before and after splenectomy. The findings indicate that developmenally, in lymphocytic leukemia, a biochemical defect involves the patient's monocytes and neutrophils much more severely than it affects the leukemic lymphocytes. Functionally, the results partly explain the susceptibility of LRE patients to microbial infections.", "contents": "Absence of neutral protease and alkaline phosphatase in neutrophils of a case of hairy cell leukemia. Enzymaticaly homogeneous fractions of lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils were isolated by zonal centrifugation from peripheral blood of a patient with hairy cell leukemia, or leukemic reticuloendotheliosis, LRE,(with leukopenia, neutropenia, lymphocytosis, and massive splenomegaly). To detect enzymatic deficiencies, the cells were analyzed quantitatively for six leukocytic enzymes on three occasions: 1) before splenectomy, 2) 5 days after splenectomy, and 3) 6 weeks after splenectomy. Before splenectomy, the patient's cells showed moderate deficiency of beta-glucuronidase in lymphocytes and monocytes; server to modorate deficiency of lysozyme and myeloperoxidase in monocytes and granulocytes; and complete absence of neutral protease and alkaline phosphates in neutrophils. Full restoration of neutral protease and a three-fold rise in alkaline phosphatase activities occurred in the patient's neutrophils 5 days after splenectomy. Lysozyme and myeloperoxidase returned to normal in both monocytes and neutrophils of the patient. Six weeks following splenectomy, the alkaline phosphatase activity again disappeared from patient's neutrophils, although neutral protease remained normal. The patient's lymphocytes were unresponsive to PHA and PW mitogen before splenectomy but became responsive 6 weeks postoperatively. Monocytic transfomation into macrophges was supressed before and after splenectomy. The findings indicate that developmenally, in lymphocytic leukemia, a biochemical defect involves the patient's monocytes and neutrophils much more severely than it affects the leukemic lymphocytes. Functionally, the results partly explain the susceptibility of LRE patients to microbial infections.", "PMID": 434113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1976", "title": "In vivo demyelination induced by intraneural injection of anti-galactocerebroside serum: a morphologic study.", "content": "Intraneural injection of rabbit anti-galactocerebroside (anti-GC) serum produced focaldemyelinative lesions in rat sciatic nerves. Recipient rats developed a sensory motordeficit of the toes and feet on the side injected with anti-GC serum. Schwann cellabnormalities in recipient nerves were apparent by 20 minutes, followed by myelinsplitting and vesiculation over the next 8 hours. Macrophages first appeared in moder-ate numbers by 15 hours, and degraded myelin was completely phagocvtized by 5 days.An acute inflammatory reaction consisting of endoneurial edema, polymorphonuclearcell infiltration, and fibrin extravasation also was prominent. In vivo demyelinativeactivity of rabbit anti-GC serums was removed by pre-incubation with GC or central orperipheral nervous system myelin and was also lost when the serums were heated at 56C for 30 minutes and injected into nerves of rats previously injected with cobra venomfactor. Anti-GC antibodies are present in the serum of rabbits with experimentalallergic neuritis (WNV-EAN) and encephalomyelitis (WM-EAE) produced, respectively,by immunization with whole peripheral nerve or brain white matter and may play arole in the pathogenesis of demyelination in GC-induced EAN, WN-EAN, or WM-EAE.", "contents": "In vivo demyelination induced by intraneural injection of anti-galactocerebroside serum: a morphologic study. Intraneural injection of rabbit anti-galactocerebroside (anti-GC) serum produced focaldemyelinative lesions in rat sciatic nerves. Recipient rats developed a sensory motordeficit of the toes and feet on the side injected with anti-GC serum. Schwann cellabnormalities in recipient nerves were apparent by 20 minutes, followed by myelinsplitting and vesiculation over the next 8 hours. Macrophages first appeared in moder-ate numbers by 15 hours, and degraded myelin was completely phagocvtized by 5 days.An acute inflammatory reaction consisting of endoneurial edema, polymorphonuclearcell infiltration, and fibrin extravasation also was prominent. In vivo demyelinativeactivity of rabbit anti-GC serums was removed by pre-incubation with GC or central orperipheral nervous system myelin and was also lost when the serums were heated at 56C for 30 minutes and injected into nerves of rats previously injected with cobra venomfactor. Anti-GC antibodies are present in the serum of rabbits with experimentalallergic neuritis (WNV-EAN) and encephalomyelitis (WM-EAE) produced, respectively,by immunization with whole peripheral nerve or brain white matter and may play arole in the pathogenesis of demyelination in GC-induced EAN, WN-EAN, or WM-EAE.", "PMID": 434114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1977", "title": "The public and private sector: a developing partnership in human services.", "content": "Historically, public and private providers of health and welfare services have functioned in separate, often incompatible, arenas. Drawing from the experience of a private child mental health center, the authors suggest that a more coordinated and collaborative approach would benefit both the public and private sectors, as well as their client populations.", "contents": "The public and private sector: a developing partnership in human services. Historically, public and private providers of health and welfare services have functioned in separate, often incompatible, arenas. Drawing from the experience of a private child mental health center, the authors suggest that a more coordinated and collaborative approach would benefit both the public and private sectors, as well as their client populations.", "PMID": 434116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1978", "title": "The varieties of readmission: the case against the use of recidivism rates as a measure of program effectiveness.", "content": "The many kinds and functions of rehospitalization--frequently having little, if anything, to do with the recidivist's psychiatric status per se--are examined. It is suggested that the use of recidivism rates may blind evaluators, program planners, and practitioners to the multiplicity of dynamics involved in the rehospitalization process.", "contents": "The varieties of readmission: the case against the use of recidivism rates as a measure of program effectiveness. The many kinds and functions of rehospitalization--frequently having little, if anything, to do with the recidivist's psychiatric status per se--are examined. It is suggested that the use of recidivism rates may blind evaluators, program planners, and practitioners to the multiplicity of dynamics involved in the rehospitalization process.", "PMID": 434117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1979", "title": "Fifteen years after treatment: a follow-up study of comprehensive vocationally-oriented psychotherapy.", "content": "The fourth follow-up study of adolescent delinquent boys treated in a community-based program that combined job placement, remedial education, and psychotherapy indicates that the better overall adjustment of the treated group, compared to untreated controls, is maintained well into adulthood. It reaffirms the importance of developing sound, innovative means of reaching adolescents in crisis, and suggests the value of a full-scale replication of the original program.", "contents": "Fifteen years after treatment: a follow-up study of comprehensive vocationally-oriented psychotherapy. The fourth follow-up study of adolescent delinquent boys treated in a community-based program that combined job placement, remedial education, and psychotherapy indicates that the better overall adjustment of the treated group, compared to untreated controls, is maintained well into adulthood. It reaffirms the importance of developing sound, innovative means of reaching adolescents in crisis, and suggests the value of a full-scale replication of the original program.", "PMID": 434118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1980", "title": "Conceptualizing structure in a day treatment program for delinquent adolescents.", "content": "While effective limit-setting is essential to the treatment of delinquents, the burden of providing the necessary structure is likely to be too great for the staff worker to sustain on his own. A program is described in which structure was conceptualized as existing simultaneously at different levels--the physical space, the programmatic organization, and the worker-patient bond--thereby providing programmatic support to the worker in his relationship to patients.", "contents": "Conceptualizing structure in a day treatment program for delinquent adolescents. While effective limit-setting is essential to the treatment of delinquents, the burden of providing the necessary structure is likely to be too great for the staff worker to sustain on his own. A program is described in which structure was conceptualized as existing simultaneously at different levels--the physical space, the programmatic organization, and the worker-patient bond--thereby providing programmatic support to the worker in his relationship to patients.", "PMID": 434119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1981", "title": "Broken homes, parental psychiatric illness, and female delinquency.", "content": "Fifty-nine families with delinquent daughters were compared with 59 families, matched on socioeconomic class, with daughters of the same age who were not delinquent. The frequency of broken homes was found to be the strongest distinguishing factor between probands and controls. Parental disabilities appeared to play a part in the incidence of delinquency among girls, particularly when the disabilities result in a broken home.", "contents": "Broken homes, parental psychiatric illness, and female delinquency. Fifty-nine families with delinquent daughters were compared with 59 families, matched on socioeconomic class, with daughters of the same age who were not delinquent. The frequency of broken homes was found to be the strongest distinguishing factor between probands and controls. Parental disabilities appeared to play a part in the incidence of delinquency among girls, particularly when the disabilities result in a broken home.", "PMID": 434120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1982", "title": "Differential effects of television programming on preschoolers' cognition, imagination, and social play.", "content": "Three groups of preschoolers were exposed over two weeks to daily programs of Misterogers Neighborhood, Sesame Street, or a control series of nature and animal films. Specific hypotheses about the effects of program format upon recall of content and upon subsequent behavior were tested. The apparently more slow-paced format and other characteristics of Misterogers were found to yield positive changes, especially for less imaginative children, in imaginative play, affect, concentration, and social interaction.", "contents": "Differential effects of television programming on preschoolers' cognition, imagination, and social play. Three groups of preschoolers were exposed over two weeks to daily programs of Misterogers Neighborhood, Sesame Street, or a control series of nature and animal films. Specific hypotheses about the effects of program format upon recall of content and upon subsequent behavior were tested. The apparently more slow-paced format and other characteristics of Misterogers were found to yield positive changes, especially for less imaginative children, in imaginative play, affect, concentration, and social interaction.", "PMID": 434121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1983", "title": "Working wives and housewives: do they differ in mental status and social adjustment?", "content": "Matched groups of working wives and housewives drawn from a community sample did not differ on current and past psychiatric symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and social functioning. They did differ markedly on enjoyment in and satisfaction from their work. The working women derived considerably more satisfaction from their outside jobs than either they or the housewives did from their work in the home.", "contents": "Working wives and housewives: do they differ in mental status and social adjustment? Matched groups of working wives and housewives drawn from a community sample did not differ on current and past psychiatric symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and social functioning. They did differ markedly on enjoyment in and satisfaction from their work. The working women derived considerably more satisfaction from their outside jobs than either they or the housewives did from their work in the home.", "PMID": 434122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1984", "title": "Family relationships and morale among people 65 years of age and older.", "content": "The interrelationship of specific types of family relationship--marital and parent-child relations in particular--among older adults is examined. Findings suggest that caution must be exercised when generalizing about the importance of family relationships in the lives of older adults, and that future inquiries should focus on the qualitative aspects of family relations. Suggestions for professionals dealing with older people are offered.", "contents": "Family relationships and morale among people 65 years of age and older. The interrelationship of specific types of family relationship--marital and parent-child relations in particular--among older adults is examined. Findings suggest that caution must be exercised when generalizing about the importance of family relationships in the lives of older adults, and that future inquiries should focus on the qualitative aspects of family relations. Suggestions for professionals dealing with older people are offered.", "PMID": 434123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1985", "title": "Prosocial behavior and psychopathology in emotionally disturbed boys.", "content": "Relationships between dimensions of problem behavior and observations of prosocial behavior were explored among a sample of emotionally disturbed boys. Results indicate that anxious/inhibited boys are more likely than less inhibited boys to engage in prosocial behavior. This may be due to their greater empathy in observing the needs of others or, alternatively, to an effort at ingratiation or an overreaction to social distress. The latter possibility suggests that prosocial behavior may reflect or compound the interpersonal difficulties of anxious/inhibited boys.", "contents": "Prosocial behavior and psychopathology in emotionally disturbed boys. Relationships between dimensions of problem behavior and observations of prosocial behavior were explored among a sample of emotionally disturbed boys. Results indicate that anxious/inhibited boys are more likely than less inhibited boys to engage in prosocial behavior. This may be due to their greater empathy in observing the needs of others or, alternatively, to an effort at ingratiation or an overreaction to social distress. The latter possibility suggests that prosocial behavior may reflect or compound the interpersonal difficulties of anxious/inhibited boys.", "PMID": 434124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1986", "title": "Fathers, children, and joint custody.", "content": "This survey of 40 middle-class divorced fathers, focusing on father's perceptions of their relationship with their children, suggests that those with joint custody are more likely than those with visitation rights to continue to have a high degree of involvement in and influence on their children's growth and development. It is argued that children of divorce, as do children of intact families, need loving relationships with two parents, and that joint custody arrangements should be encouraged.", "contents": "Fathers, children, and joint custody. This survey of 40 middle-class divorced fathers, focusing on father's perceptions of their relationship with their children, suggests that those with joint custody are more likely than those with visitation rights to continue to have a high degree of involvement in and influence on their children's growth and development. It is argued that children of divorce, as do children of intact families, need loving relationships with two parents, and that joint custody arrangements should be encouraged.", "PMID": 434125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1987", "title": "Shared parenting after separation and divorce: a study of joint custody.", "content": "Intensive case studies of four families in which divorced parents have maintained joint custody of their children suggest that this arrangement works well under certain conditions. Components of a successful joint custody arrangement are considered, limitations are discussed, and support is urged for divorcing parents interested in establishing joint custody.", "contents": "Shared parenting after separation and divorce: a study of joint custody. Intensive case studies of four families in which divorced parents have maintained joint custody of their children suggest that this arrangement works well under certain conditions. Components of a successful joint custody arrangement are considered, limitations are discussed, and support is urged for divorcing parents interested in establishing joint custody.", "PMID": 434126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1988", "title": "The role of some birth-related variables in father attachment.", "content": "Forty-six middle-income couples planning different childbirth methods--natural hospital delivery; home delivery; hospital delivery with anesthesia--were studied from the sixth month of pregnancy until six months after the birth. The father's participation in the birth and his attitude toward it were found to constitute the most significant variable in predicting father attachment. prenatal education and structuring of the birth environment are suggested to obtain maximum participation and involvement of fathers.", "contents": "The role of some birth-related variables in father attachment. Forty-six middle-income couples planning different childbirth methods--natural hospital delivery; home delivery; hospital delivery with anesthesia--were studied from the sixth month of pregnancy until six months after the birth. The father's participation in the birth and his attitude toward it were found to constitute the most significant variable in predicting father attachment. prenatal education and structuring of the birth environment are suggested to obtain maximum participation and involvement of fathers.", "PMID": 434127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1989", "title": "Effects of the nursing mother-infant dyad on the family.", "content": "The voluminous literature on breast-feeding is characterized by a narrow, if not exclusive, focus on the mother-infant dyad. This paper describes how the dynamics of the nursing couple can best be understood within the broader context of the family. One father's conflictual reactions to breast-feeding, and the subsequent effects on his nursing wife, are described.", "contents": "Effects of the nursing mother-infant dyad on the family. The voluminous literature on breast-feeding is characterized by a narrow, if not exclusive, focus on the mother-infant dyad. This paper describes how the dynamics of the nursing couple can best be understood within the broader context of the family. One father's conflictual reactions to breast-feeding, and the subsequent effects on his nursing wife, are described.", "PMID": 434128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1990", "title": "Husbands' problems with breast-feeding.", "content": "This paper discusses the importance of educating prospective parents about the stresss thay may be experienced by the father of a nursing infant. Husbands' negative reactions to breast-feeding are considered, and means of alleviating husbands' stress are suggested.", "contents": "Husbands' problems with breast-feeding. This paper discusses the importance of educating prospective parents about the stresss thay may be experienced by the father of a nursing infant. Husbands' negative reactions to breast-feeding are considered, and means of alleviating husbands' stress are suggested.", "PMID": 434129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1991", "title": "Postural reflexes in man.", "content": "In 40 adult patients stabilized on the tilt table, no evidence was found that the amount of activity at rest in spastic muscles depends on the position of the head in space. The influence of postural labyrinthine reflexes (Magnus) was not confirmed. The activity in spastic extensor muscles was significantly higher (t greater than 1%) in the prone position. The activity in spastic flexor muscles was higher (t greater than 1%) in the supine position. Extralabyrinthine forces (tonic stretch reflexes and exteroceptive reflexes) are assumed to be decisive in these changes. In the same group of patients, the symmetric deep neck reflexes were examined. The patient actively flexed his head forwards or backwards. Significant increase in the activity at rest in spastic extensor muscles on dorsal flexion of the head in the prone position was found (t greater than 1%). Significant increase in the activity at rest in spastic flexor muscles on ventral flexion of the head in the supine position was also found (t greater than 5%). The phenomena of irradiation are assumed to be decisive in these changes. In another group of 27 adults the asymmetric deep neck reflexes (Magnus and De Kleijn) were examined. The patient actively turned his head either to the left or to the right, while his arms were raised (Hoff-Schilder maneuver). When the degree of rotation of the head was slight, the trunk and arms deviated in the same direction. When the rotation of the head was extreme, and reached behind the shoulder, the trunk and arms often reversed the direction of deviation. The effect of asymmetric deep neck reflexes was not confirmed. Visual perception and the mechanism of focusing are assumed to be decisive in these changes. The head turns toward the object of interest in the visual field by the mechanism of eye-centering (Bender) and influences the position of the trunk and motor patterns of the upper extremities (motor principle \"eyes-hand\").", "contents": "Postural reflexes in man. In 40 adult patients stabilized on the tilt table, no evidence was found that the amount of activity at rest in spastic muscles depends on the position of the head in space. The influence of postural labyrinthine reflexes (Magnus) was not confirmed. The activity in spastic extensor muscles was significantly higher (t greater than 1%) in the prone position. The activity in spastic flexor muscles was higher (t greater than 1%) in the supine position. Extralabyrinthine forces (tonic stretch reflexes and exteroceptive reflexes) are assumed to be decisive in these changes. In the same group of patients, the symmetric deep neck reflexes were examined. The patient actively flexed his head forwards or backwards. Significant increase in the activity at rest in spastic extensor muscles on dorsal flexion of the head in the prone position was found (t greater than 1%). Significant increase in the activity at rest in spastic flexor muscles on ventral flexion of the head in the supine position was also found (t greater than 5%). The phenomena of irradiation are assumed to be decisive in these changes. In another group of 27 adults the asymmetric deep neck reflexes (Magnus and De Kleijn) were examined. The patient actively turned his head either to the left or to the right, while his arms were raised (Hoff-Schilder maneuver). When the degree of rotation of the head was slight, the trunk and arms deviated in the same direction. When the rotation of the head was extreme, and reached behind the shoulder, the trunk and arms often reversed the direction of deviation. The effect of asymmetric deep neck reflexes was not confirmed. Visual perception and the mechanism of focusing are assumed to be decisive in these changes. The head turns toward the object of interest in the visual field by the mechanism of eye-centering (Bender) and influences the position of the trunk and motor patterns of the upper extremities (motor principle \"eyes-hand\").", "PMID": 434130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1992", "title": "Effect on maximal strength of submaximal exercise in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.", "content": "Four Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients, with quadriceps of at least antigravity strength, exercised one quadriceps submaximally 4 or 5 days per week for six months. The exercise was done under supervision and consisted of extending one knee from 90 degrees to full extension using the Cybex isokinetic exerciser. The other side was not exercised at all. The two sides were tested for maximal isokinetic strength monthly for twelve months and at 18 and 24 months after the beginning of the study. On the average, the exercised leg had a greater maximal torque both during and after the exercise period until the torques on both sides decreased to zero. The results indicate that submaximal exercise has no negative effect and may be of limited value in increasing strength in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.", "contents": "Effect on maximal strength of submaximal exercise in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Four Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients, with quadriceps of at least antigravity strength, exercised one quadriceps submaximally 4 or 5 days per week for six months. The exercise was done under supervision and consisted of extending one knee from 90 degrees to full extension using the Cybex isokinetic exerciser. The other side was not exercised at all. The two sides were tested for maximal isokinetic strength monthly for twelve months and at 18 and 24 months after the beginning of the study. On the average, the exercised leg had a greater maximal torque both during and after the exercise period until the torques on both sides decreased to zero. The results indicate that submaximal exercise has no negative effect and may be of limited value in increasing strength in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.", "PMID": 434131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1993", "title": "EMG comparison of quadriceps femoris activity during knee extension and straight leg raises.", "content": "Both knee extension and straight leg raises have been used to rehabilitate atrophied quadriceps musculature following knee immobilization. A comparison of the tension developed during these two exercises was made in each of the three surface quadriceps muscles (quadriceps femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis) at three different levels of activity (20%, 50%, and 80% of 1RM). Integrated EMG (m Volt-seconds) was used to measure tension developed during a seven second contraction. Tension developed was significantly greater during a seven second contraction. Tension developed was significantly greater during knee extension than during straight leg raises at each exercise intensity. For both exercises and at all three exercise levels, the vastus lateralis was the most active; the vastus medialis was the least active. The difference between knee extension and straight leg raises became greater with increasing levels of activity. Therefore, unless contraindicated by chondromalacia of lack of knee flexibility, knee extensions should be used for post-surgical knee rehabilitation. The greater tension development would lead to a more rapid return of strength, and therefore quicker rehabilitation.", "contents": "EMG comparison of quadriceps femoris activity during knee extension and straight leg raises. Both knee extension and straight leg raises have been used to rehabilitate atrophied quadriceps musculature following knee immobilization. A comparison of the tension developed during these two exercises was made in each of the three surface quadriceps muscles (quadriceps femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis) at three different levels of activity (20%, 50%, and 80% of 1RM). Integrated EMG (m Volt-seconds) was used to measure tension developed during a seven second contraction. Tension developed was significantly greater during a seven second contraction. Tension developed was significantly greater during knee extension than during straight leg raises at each exercise intensity. For both exercises and at all three exercise levels, the vastus lateralis was the most active; the vastus medialis was the least active. The difference between knee extension and straight leg raises became greater with increasing levels of activity. Therefore, unless contraindicated by chondromalacia of lack of knee flexibility, knee extensions should be used for post-surgical knee rehabilitation. The greater tension development would lead to a more rapid return of strength, and therefore quicker rehabilitation.", "PMID": 434132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1994", "title": "Relation between force and fatigability of red and pale skeletal muscles in man.", "content": "Experiments were performed to test the effect of muscular fatigue on the relationship between smoothed rectified electrical activity (SREMG) and force in human muscles of different fiber compositions. Fatigue was shown to be produced by failure of a mechanism distal to the neuromuscular junction in three muscles tested: biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and adductor pollicis. Fatigue produced changes in SREMG in first dorsal interosseous, suggesting an effect at or proximal to the neuromuscular junction. Fatigue produced changes in the SREMG-force relationship only at high force levels in the pale triceps and biceps brachii, but produced a change throughout the force range in the red adductor pollicis. It is suggested that muscle units composed of pale fibers fatigue selectively in mixed muscles containing many such units, while fatigue effects are more difficult to produce and are distributed more uniformly in predominantly red muscles.", "contents": "Relation between force and fatigability of red and pale skeletal muscles in man. Experiments were performed to test the effect of muscular fatigue on the relationship between smoothed rectified electrical activity (SREMG) and force in human muscles of different fiber compositions. Fatigue was shown to be produced by failure of a mechanism distal to the neuromuscular junction in three muscles tested: biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and adductor pollicis. Fatigue produced changes in SREMG in first dorsal interosseous, suggesting an effect at or proximal to the neuromuscular junction. Fatigue produced changes in the SREMG-force relationship only at high force levels in the pale triceps and biceps brachii, but produced a change throughout the force range in the red adductor pollicis. It is suggested that muscle units composed of pale fibers fatigue selectively in mixed muscles containing many such units, while fatigue effects are more difficult to produce and are distributed more uniformly in predominantly red muscles.", "PMID": 434133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1995", "title": "Digital beat-to-beat cardiotachometer.", "content": "A beat-to-beat cardiotachometer counting from 27 to 199 beats per minute has been constructed using digital integrated circuits. Power consumption is reduced, and accuracy enhanced, by incorporating a programmed read-only memory. This circuit technique can be employed for other devices, such as digital thermometers, in order to circumvent a nonlinear relationship between voltage and the physiological variable.", "contents": "Digital beat-to-beat cardiotachometer. A beat-to-beat cardiotachometer counting from 27 to 199 beats per minute has been constructed using digital integrated circuits. Power consumption is reduced, and accuracy enhanced, by incorporating a programmed read-only memory. This circuit technique can be employed for other devices, such as digital thermometers, in order to circumvent a nonlinear relationship between voltage and the physiological variable.", "PMID": 434134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1996", "title": "Hyperpolarization in mouse parathyroid cells by low calcium.", "content": "Intracellular microelectrodes were used to record the resting membrane potential of mouse parathyroid cells in vitro. The mean value of the membrane potential in 2.5 mM calcium was -20 mV. Exposure to low-calcium solutions (1.5 mM) caused rapid hyperpolarization to a mean value of -50 mV. The relationship between extracellular calcium and the membrane potential was sigmoid, and the transition between high and low intracellular potentials occurred between 1.5 mM and 2.25 mM calcium. Magnesium, manganese, and lanthanum reversed the low-calcium hyperpolarization. In 1.5 mM calcium solutions, the relationship between external potassium (greater than 10 mM) and the membrane potential was 46 mV per 10-fold change in extracellular potassium. In 2.5 mM calcium solutions, the resting membrane potential was independent of the external potassium concentration. It is concluded that the resting membrane potential of mouse parathyroid cells is highly sensitive to the extracellular concentration of calcium and calcium-like ions. With the low-calcium secretory stimulus, hyperpolarization is accompanied by the development of strong dependence of the resting membrane potential on extracellular potassium levels.", "contents": "Hyperpolarization in mouse parathyroid cells by low calcium. Intracellular microelectrodes were used to record the resting membrane potential of mouse parathyroid cells in vitro. The mean value of the membrane potential in 2.5 mM calcium was -20 mV. Exposure to low-calcium solutions (1.5 mM) caused rapid hyperpolarization to a mean value of -50 mV. The relationship between extracellular calcium and the membrane potential was sigmoid, and the transition between high and low intracellular potentials occurred between 1.5 mM and 2.25 mM calcium. Magnesium, manganese, and lanthanum reversed the low-calcium hyperpolarization. In 1.5 mM calcium solutions, the relationship between external potassium (greater than 10 mM) and the membrane potential was 46 mV per 10-fold change in extracellular potassium. In 2.5 mM calcium solutions, the resting membrane potential was independent of the external potassium concentration. It is concluded that the resting membrane potential of mouse parathyroid cells is highly sensitive to the extracellular concentration of calcium and calcium-like ions. With the low-calcium secretory stimulus, hyperpolarization is accompanied by the development of strong dependence of the resting membrane potential on extracellular potassium levels.", "PMID": 434135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1997", "title": "Cellular augmentation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis.", "content": "The density of neutrophils influences the number of cells that will respond to a chemoattractant, endotoxin-activated serium. When fewer than 3 x 10(5) polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) were placed in the top compartment of a modified Boyden chemotaxis chamber, the cellular response was weak. Complete membrane penetration by activated neutrophils rarely was observed. When this number of PMN was exceeded, however, both the number of cells and the percentage of neutrophils responding to the leukoattractant increased. The density of cells required for effective chemotactic response to occur was such that intimate cell-to-cell contact was suggested. This indicated that PMN exerted a kinetic influence upon one another. Extracts of disrupted PMN induced an otherwise insufficient number of neutrophils to respond to the chemotactic stimulus. The active component was isolated in the cytoplasmic fraction (postcentrifugation, 100,000 x g, 60 min) of PMN, but was not present in other subcellular fractions. This cytoplasmic augmentor of chemotaxis (CACh) increased random mobility of neutrophils, but was not, itself, a chemotactic factor. These findings suggest that PMN cooperate in their response to a leukotactic stimulus.", "contents": "Cellular augmentation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis. The density of neutrophils influences the number of cells that will respond to a chemoattractant, endotoxin-activated serium. When fewer than 3 x 10(5) polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) were placed in the top compartment of a modified Boyden chemotaxis chamber, the cellular response was weak. Complete membrane penetration by activated neutrophils rarely was observed. When this number of PMN was exceeded, however, both the number of cells and the percentage of neutrophils responding to the leukoattractant increased. The density of cells required for effective chemotactic response to occur was such that intimate cell-to-cell contact was suggested. This indicated that PMN exerted a kinetic influence upon one another. Extracts of disrupted PMN induced an otherwise insufficient number of neutrophils to respond to the chemotactic stimulus. The active component was isolated in the cytoplasmic fraction (postcentrifugation, 100,000 x g, 60 min) of PMN, but was not present in other subcellular fractions. This cytoplasmic augmentor of chemotaxis (CACh) increased random mobility of neutrophils, but was not, itself, a chemotactic factor. These findings suggest that PMN cooperate in their response to a leukotactic stimulus.", "PMID": 434136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1998", "title": "Properties of motor units of the frog iliofibularis muscle.", "content": "The tension developed by single motor units of the iliofibularis muscle of the frog Litoria aurea was recorded in response to single-shock and repetitive stimulation of motor axons. The majority of units in each muscle, 13 on the average, were of the twitch type; an additional 4 units were slow or tonic. It appeared that slow units comprised a single homogeneous population, but two types of twitch units could be recognized: small fatigue-resistant units with long twitch times to peak (20--40 ms) and larger, fatigable units with briefer times to peak (16--27 ms). Evidence from a comparison of unit tetanic tensions indicated the presence of polyneuronal innervation of both slow and twitch muscle fibers. The relatively low incidence of polyneuronal innervation of twitch fibers in iliofibularis, when compared with a muscle like sartorius (9), was attributed to the difference in lengths of muscle fibers in the two muscles. It was argued that slow muscle fibers probably receive a multiterminal as well as polyneuronal innervation, with the terminals of any one axon lying widely spaced along the muscle fiber.", "contents": "Properties of motor units of the frog iliofibularis muscle. The tension developed by single motor units of the iliofibularis muscle of the frog Litoria aurea was recorded in response to single-shock and repetitive stimulation of motor axons. The majority of units in each muscle, 13 on the average, were of the twitch type; an additional 4 units were slow or tonic. It appeared that slow units comprised a single homogeneous population, but two types of twitch units could be recognized: small fatigue-resistant units with long twitch times to peak (20--40 ms) and larger, fatigable units with briefer times to peak (16--27 ms). Evidence from a comparison of unit tetanic tensions indicated the presence of polyneuronal innervation of both slow and twitch muscle fibers. The relatively low incidence of polyneuronal innervation of twitch fibers in iliofibularis, when compared with a muscle like sartorius (9), was attributed to the difference in lengths of muscle fibers in the two muscles. It was argued that slow muscle fibers probably receive a multiterminal as well as polyneuronal innervation, with the terminals of any one axon lying widely spaced along the muscle fiber.", "PMID": 434137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_1999", "title": "Placental transfer of water and nonelectrolytes during a single circulatory passage.", "content": "A bolus of a 14C-labeled nonelectrolyte and tritiated water was injected into the maternal arterial system supplying the uterine circulation. Blood was sampled immediately on the fetal side of the placenta from the umbilical vein. A placental transfer index (PTI) was calculated from the ratio of the tracers in the fetal blood divided by the ratio of the tracers in the injectate. Placental transfer was measured for 11 nonelectrolytes in anesthetized guinea pigs and 8 nonelectrolytes in unanesthetized sheep. Placental transfer in both species was determined by molecular weight and lipid solubility. The PTI measured for the lipophilic solutes antipyrine and 1,6-hexanediol were less than 1, and those for methanol and ethanol were greater than 1. We conclude that placental transfer for water and small (mol wt less than 200) lipid-soluble nonelectrolytes is limited by diffusion as well as by blood flow.", "contents": "Placental transfer of water and nonelectrolytes during a single circulatory passage. A bolus of a 14C-labeled nonelectrolyte and tritiated water was injected into the maternal arterial system supplying the uterine circulation. Blood was sampled immediately on the fetal side of the placenta from the umbilical vein. A placental transfer index (PTI) was calculated from the ratio of the tracers in the fetal blood divided by the ratio of the tracers in the injectate. Placental transfer was measured for 11 nonelectrolytes in anesthetized guinea pigs and 8 nonelectrolytes in unanesthetized sheep. Placental transfer in both species was determined by molecular weight and lipid solubility. The PTI measured for the lipophilic solutes antipyrine and 1,6-hexanediol were less than 1, and those for methanol and ethanol were greater than 1. We conclude that placental transfer for water and small (mol wt less than 200) lipid-soluble nonelectrolytes is limited by diffusion as well as by blood flow.", "PMID": 434138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2000", "title": "Distribution of ionic sulfate, lithium, and bromide across the sheep placenta.", "content": "Salts of sulfate, lithium, and bromine were injected or infused intravenously into ewes in the last trimester of gestation. Ewes and fetuses had indwelling catheters; most fetuses were nephrectomized. Concentrations were measured in paired maternal and fetal samples over periods of 4--14 days. Maternal excretion of sulfate was too rapid to permit near equilibration of fetal and maternal plasma concentrations; the results, however, did not support the existence of a large potential difference across the exchange barrier. The concentrations of Li+ (given by continuous infusion) and 82Br- in maternal plasma did not change rapidly. The concentrations of these tracers in fetal plasma rose until they were nearly equal to the maternal plasma concentrations. Steady-state transplacental potentials, calculated by use of the Nernst equation, were 5.2 +/- 2.0 (SEM) mV (n = 26) for Li+ and -2.2 +/- 0.8 (SEM) mV (n = 10) for Br-. Nernst potentials calculated from previously measured maternal and fetal plasma concentrations of Na+, K+, Mg2+, and Cl- were +0.4, +3.6, +0.5, and -1.4 mV. We concluded that, of the total potential difference of about -50 mV (fetus negative) between the fetal lamb and the ewe, only a few mV are dropped across the placental exchange barrier.", "contents": "Distribution of ionic sulfate, lithium, and bromide across the sheep placenta. Salts of sulfate, lithium, and bromine were injected or infused intravenously into ewes in the last trimester of gestation. Ewes and fetuses had indwelling catheters; most fetuses were nephrectomized. Concentrations were measured in paired maternal and fetal samples over periods of 4--14 days. Maternal excretion of sulfate was too rapid to permit near equilibration of fetal and maternal plasma concentrations; the results, however, did not support the existence of a large potential difference across the exchange barrier. The concentrations of Li+ (given by continuous infusion) and 82Br- in maternal plasma did not change rapidly. The concentrations of these tracers in fetal plasma rose until they were nearly equal to the maternal plasma concentrations. Steady-state transplacental potentials, calculated by use of the Nernst equation, were 5.2 +/- 2.0 (SEM) mV (n = 26) for Li+ and -2.2 +/- 0.8 (SEM) mV (n = 10) for Br-. Nernst potentials calculated from previously measured maternal and fetal plasma concentrations of Na+, K+, Mg2+, and Cl- were +0.4, +3.6, +0.5, and -1.4 mV. We concluded that, of the total potential difference of about -50 mV (fetus negative) between the fetal lamb and the ewe, only a few mV are dropped across the placental exchange barrier.", "PMID": 434139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2001", "title": "Substrate oxidation specificity in different types of mammalian muscle.", "content": "The maximal capacity of homogenates prepared from cardiac, fast-oxidative-glycogenolytic (FOG) vastus lateralis, fast-glycogenolytic (FG) vastus lateralis, and slow-oxidative (SO) soleus muscle to oxidize pyruvate, palmitate, alpha-glycerophosphate, and acetoacetate was assessed by measuring oxygen consumption under conditions of nonlimiting substrate and cofactors. Pyruvate oxidation varied eight-fold among the muscle types and was highest in cardiac, followed by FOG, SO, and FG muscle. Palmitate was oxidized at 97%, 85%, 77%, and 57% of the relative rate for pyruvate in cardiac, FOG, SO, and FG muscle, respectively. In contrast, alpha-glycerophosphate oxidation rates were highest in FG muscle, followed by cardiac, FOG, and SO muscle. Although cardiac muscle possessed the highest absolute rate for acetoacetate oxidation, it had the lowest capacity relative to pyruvate (19%), whereas SO muscle possessed the highest (61%). FOG and FG muscle had similar relative capacities for this substrate (30%). These results provide further evidence to suggest that mammalian muscle types are differentiated in terms of both mitochondrial mass and substrate oxidation specificity.", "contents": "Substrate oxidation specificity in different types of mammalian muscle. The maximal capacity of homogenates prepared from cardiac, fast-oxidative-glycogenolytic (FOG) vastus lateralis, fast-glycogenolytic (FG) vastus lateralis, and slow-oxidative (SO) soleus muscle to oxidize pyruvate, palmitate, alpha-glycerophosphate, and acetoacetate was assessed by measuring oxygen consumption under conditions of nonlimiting substrate and cofactors. Pyruvate oxidation varied eight-fold among the muscle types and was highest in cardiac, followed by FOG, SO, and FG muscle. Palmitate was oxidized at 97%, 85%, 77%, and 57% of the relative rate for pyruvate in cardiac, FOG, SO, and FG muscle, respectively. In contrast, alpha-glycerophosphate oxidation rates were highest in FG muscle, followed by cardiac, FOG, and SO muscle. Although cardiac muscle possessed the highest absolute rate for acetoacetate oxidation, it had the lowest capacity relative to pyruvate (19%), whereas SO muscle possessed the highest (61%). FOG and FG muscle had similar relative capacities for this substrate (30%). These results provide further evidence to suggest that mammalian muscle types are differentiated in terms of both mitochondrial mass and substrate oxidation specificity.", "PMID": 434140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2002", "title": "Sarcomere motion in isolated cardiac cells.", "content": "Computerized image-analysis techniques have been employed to examine the sarcomere dynamics of isolated mammalian cardiac myocytes. The cells were prepared by perfusion of adult rabbit hearts with hyaluronidase-collagenase solutions; they exhibited phasic contractions in the presence of 10(-6) M Ca2+. The dissociated cells were visualized by phase microscopy and a video camera interfaced in a minicomputer. Digitized cell images were processed by an algorithm utilizing signal averaging and contrast enhancement to yield data showing individual sarcomere position and shortening vs. time, so that patterns of sarcomere activation could be observed in spontaneously contracting cells. Compared to records of whole-cell shortening and of striation displacement, computerized image analysis provided a much more faithful indication of time course and sequence of sarcomere shortening. Spontaneously contracting cells showed sequential sarcomere shortening beginning at one end and propagating longitudinally with a constant velocity, typically at 100--150 micron/s for beat rates of 40 min-1. Velocities of initial sarcomere shortening appeared to increase with elevated Ca2+. These observations are consistent with a regenerative mechanism of calcium-induced calcium release.", "contents": "Sarcomere motion in isolated cardiac cells. Computerized image-analysis techniques have been employed to examine the sarcomere dynamics of isolated mammalian cardiac myocytes. The cells were prepared by perfusion of adult rabbit hearts with hyaluronidase-collagenase solutions; they exhibited phasic contractions in the presence of 10(-6) M Ca2+. The dissociated cells were visualized by phase microscopy and a video camera interfaced in a minicomputer. Digitized cell images were processed by an algorithm utilizing signal averaging and contrast enhancement to yield data showing individual sarcomere position and shortening vs. time, so that patterns of sarcomere activation could be observed in spontaneously contracting cells. Compared to records of whole-cell shortening and of striation displacement, computerized image analysis provided a much more faithful indication of time course and sequence of sarcomere shortening. Spontaneously contracting cells showed sequential sarcomere shortening beginning at one end and propagating longitudinally with a constant velocity, typically at 100--150 micron/s for beat rates of 40 min-1. Velocities of initial sarcomere shortening appeared to increase with elevated Ca2+. These observations are consistent with a regenerative mechanism of calcium-induced calcium release.", "PMID": 434141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2003", "title": "Cation exchange and glycoside binding in cultured rat heart cells.", "content": "The Na/K-exchange characteristics, ouabain-binding kinetics, and Na pump turnover rates of synchronously contracting monolayers of neonatal rat myocardial cells were studied. The cells exchange Na rapidly (T1/2 = 35 s) with a mean Na flux of approximately 25 (pmol/cm2)/s. The half time (T1/2) of K exchange is much longer (12 min); the mean K flux is 13 (pmol/cm2)/s. Active Na/K transport, as measured by K influx, is relatively ouabain sensitive, and 10(-6) M ouabain produces half-maximal inhibition. Ouabain (10(-2)M) inhibits 60% of the Na efflux and 75% of the K influx. The cells bind [3H]ouabain rapidly (T1/2 = 8 min), but release it very slowly (T1/2 = 11 h), and both the amount bound and the rate of binding were inversely proportional to extracellular K. Specific [3H]ouabain binding demonstrates saturation reaching a maximum of 1.6 x 10(6) molecules per cell at 2 x 10(-7) M [3H]ouabain. From cell surface area and ouabain-sensitive flux measurements, the Na pump density was calculated at 720/micrometer2 with an individual pump turnover rate of 50/s. Thus the studies indicate that despite their neonatal origin, the behavior of the Na pump in these cells is very similar to that in other mammalian tissues.", "contents": "Cation exchange and glycoside binding in cultured rat heart cells. The Na/K-exchange characteristics, ouabain-binding kinetics, and Na pump turnover rates of synchronously contracting monolayers of neonatal rat myocardial cells were studied. The cells exchange Na rapidly (T1/2 = 35 s) with a mean Na flux of approximately 25 (pmol/cm2)/s. The half time (T1/2) of K exchange is much longer (12 min); the mean K flux is 13 (pmol/cm2)/s. Active Na/K transport, as measured by K influx, is relatively ouabain sensitive, and 10(-6) M ouabain produces half-maximal inhibition. Ouabain (10(-2)M) inhibits 60% of the Na efflux and 75% of the K influx. The cells bind [3H]ouabain rapidly (T1/2 = 8 min), but release it very slowly (T1/2 = 11 h), and both the amount bound and the rate of binding were inversely proportional to extracellular K. Specific [3H]ouabain binding demonstrates saturation reaching a maximum of 1.6 x 10(6) molecules per cell at 2 x 10(-7) M [3H]ouabain. From cell surface area and ouabain-sensitive flux measurements, the Na pump density was calculated at 720/micrometer2 with an individual pump turnover rate of 50/s. Thus the studies indicate that despite their neonatal origin, the behavior of the Na pump in these cells is very similar to that in other mammalian tissues.", "PMID": 434142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2004", "title": "Uptake of unconjugated bilirubin by isolated rat hepatocytes.", "content": "The mechanism responsible for the hepatic uptake of unconjugated bilirubin was examined in isolated rat hepatocytes from control and phenobartital-pretreated rats. The uptake was extremely rapid and the equilibrium between cell and medium was attained within 60 s with a 100-fold higher concentration in the cell than the medium. The initial velocity of uptake (Vo) exhibited a linear relationship to the bilirubin concentration in the medium. Pretreatment of cells with various metabolic inhibitors had no effect on the uptake of unconjugated bilirubin. Ouabain did significantly decrease Vo, but replacement of sodium ion with choline or lithium had no effect on bilirubin uptake. The organic acids sulfobromophthalein (112 muM) and taurocholic acid (50 (muM) and two steroidal compounds, diethylstilbestrol (50 muM) and spironolactone (50 muM), had no effect on the uptake of bilirubin. It is suggested that bilirubin gains access to the hepatocyte interior by passive diffusion into and through the lipid membrane and that intracellular binding may explain the high degree of bilirubin accumulation associated with the isolated hepatocytes.", "contents": "Uptake of unconjugated bilirubin by isolated rat hepatocytes. The mechanism responsible for the hepatic uptake of unconjugated bilirubin was examined in isolated rat hepatocytes from control and phenobartital-pretreated rats. The uptake was extremely rapid and the equilibrium between cell and medium was attained within 60 s with a 100-fold higher concentration in the cell than the medium. The initial velocity of uptake (Vo) exhibited a linear relationship to the bilirubin concentration in the medium. Pretreatment of cells with various metabolic inhibitors had no effect on the uptake of unconjugated bilirubin. Ouabain did significantly decrease Vo, but replacement of sodium ion with choline or lithium had no effect on bilirubin uptake. The organic acids sulfobromophthalein (112 muM) and taurocholic acid (50 (muM) and two steroidal compounds, diethylstilbestrol (50 muM) and spironolactone (50 muM), had no effect on the uptake of bilirubin. It is suggested that bilirubin gains access to the hepatocyte interior by passive diffusion into and through the lipid membrane and that intracellular binding may explain the high degree of bilirubin accumulation associated with the isolated hepatocytes.", "PMID": 434143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2005", "title": "Hexose transport and phosphorylation by capillaries isolated from rat brain.", "content": "Hexose transport and phosphorylation were studied in capillary segments isolated from rat brain. Uptake of 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3MG) could be inhibited by cytochalasin B, phloretin, and phlorizin, but not by 2,4-dinitrophenol or ouabain. 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), D-glucose, galactose, and mannose inhibited 3MG uptake, while L-glucose, fructose, and ribose did not. Accelerative exchange diffusion of 3MG was demonstrated. At equilibrium, the intracellular concentration of hexose did not exceed the external concentration, and transport was, therefore, equilibrative rather than accumulative. Transport of 2DG and D-glucose was not rate limiting for metabolism. When incubated in 5 mM D-glucose, the endothelial cells contained a large pool of free glucose. L-Glucose entered capillaries more slowly than other hexoses and served as a marker for simple diffusion of sugars into the cells. Our results suggest that sugar uptake into isolated brain capillaries occurs by a transport system similar to the one responsible for glucose transport across the blood-brain barrier in vivo.", "contents": "Hexose transport and phosphorylation by capillaries isolated from rat brain. Hexose transport and phosphorylation were studied in capillary segments isolated from rat brain. Uptake of 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3MG) could be inhibited by cytochalasin B, phloretin, and phlorizin, but not by 2,4-dinitrophenol or ouabain. 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), D-glucose, galactose, and mannose inhibited 3MG uptake, while L-glucose, fructose, and ribose did not. Accelerative exchange diffusion of 3MG was demonstrated. At equilibrium, the intracellular concentration of hexose did not exceed the external concentration, and transport was, therefore, equilibrative rather than accumulative. Transport of 2DG and D-glucose was not rate limiting for metabolism. When incubated in 5 mM D-glucose, the endothelial cells contained a large pool of free glucose. L-Glucose entered capillaries more slowly than other hexoses and served as a marker for simple diffusion of sugars into the cells. Our results suggest that sugar uptake into isolated brain capillaries occurs by a transport system similar to the one responsible for glucose transport across the blood-brain barrier in vivo.", "PMID": 434144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2006", "title": "Influence of taurocholate, taurochenodeoxycholate, and taurodehydrocholate on sulfobromophthalein transport into bile.", "content": "To test the hypothesis that incorporation of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) into mixed micelles could account for the increase in its biliary transport maximum (Tmax) by bile salts, we have compared in hamsters the influence on BSP Tmax of taurocholate and taurochenodeoxycholate (two micelle-forming physiological bile salts) to that of taurodehydrocholate, a bile salt which, in vitro, does not form micelles. In a first series of experiments, it was observed that taurocholate and taurochenodeoxycholate increased the secretion of phospholipid (40 and 53%, respectively), and cholesterol (50 and 110%, respectively), whereas taurodehydrocholate decreased the secretion of phospholipid (-31%) and cholesterol (-43%). This result suggests that, in vivo, taurodehydrocholate or its metabolites do not form mixed micelles. In a second series of experiments, it was seen that the three bile salts induced a similar increase in BSP Tmax (63% with taurocholate, 52% with taurochenodeoxycholate, and 51% with taurodehydrocholate). These results provide circumstantial evidence for the hypothesis that mixed micelle formation is not an important determinant of maximal BSP secretion into bile.", "contents": "Influence of taurocholate, taurochenodeoxycholate, and taurodehydrocholate on sulfobromophthalein transport into bile. To test the hypothesis that incorporation of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) into mixed micelles could account for the increase in its biliary transport maximum (Tmax) by bile salts, we have compared in hamsters the influence on BSP Tmax of taurocholate and taurochenodeoxycholate (two micelle-forming physiological bile salts) to that of taurodehydrocholate, a bile salt which, in vitro, does not form micelles. In a first series of experiments, it was observed that taurocholate and taurochenodeoxycholate increased the secretion of phospholipid (40 and 53%, respectively), and cholesterol (50 and 110%, respectively), whereas taurodehydrocholate decreased the secretion of phospholipid (-31%) and cholesterol (-43%). This result suggests that, in vivo, taurodehydrocholate or its metabolites do not form mixed micelles. In a second series of experiments, it was seen that the three bile salts induced a similar increase in BSP Tmax (63% with taurocholate, 52% with taurochenodeoxycholate, and 51% with taurodehydrocholate). These results provide circumstantial evidence for the hypothesis that mixed micelle formation is not an important determinant of maximal BSP secretion into bile.", "PMID": 434145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2007", "title": "Increased glucagon secretion in protein-fed rats: lack of relationship to plasma amino acids.", "content": "This investigation was designed to test the hypothesis that protein feeding stimulated glucagon secretion because amino acids liberated during protein digestion function as glucagon secretagogues. Rats were fed high-protein (HP) or control diets for 9--10 days and blood taken from the aorta or portal vein (PV) at 0800, 1300, 1700, 1900, 2100, and 2300 for determination of amino acids, glucose, insulin, and glucagon. Glucose, insulin, and glucagon of control rats showed little change. In HP rats, PV glucose rose during fasting (0800-1700) and declined during feeding (1700-0800), changes that reflected alterations of glucagon and insulin secretion. PV glucagon in HP rats that was elevated 2--4 times rose during fasting, whereas PV and arterial amino acids declined. HP feeding caused enhanced glucagon release that was associated with increased amino acids in PV and arterial plasma, especially the branched-chain group. Although these findings suggest that protein feeding promotes glucagon release because branched-chain amino acids are elevated, these amino acids are known to have little effect on alpha cell function. Thus, we conclude that protein feeding influences glucagon secretion through some mechanism other than increased blood amino acid levels.", "contents": "Increased glucagon secretion in protein-fed rats: lack of relationship to plasma amino acids. This investigation was designed to test the hypothesis that protein feeding stimulated glucagon secretion because amino acids liberated during protein digestion function as glucagon secretagogues. Rats were fed high-protein (HP) or control diets for 9--10 days and blood taken from the aorta or portal vein (PV) at 0800, 1300, 1700, 1900, 2100, and 2300 for determination of amino acids, glucose, insulin, and glucagon. Glucose, insulin, and glucagon of control rats showed little change. In HP rats, PV glucose rose during fasting (0800-1700) and declined during feeding (1700-0800), changes that reflected alterations of glucagon and insulin secretion. PV glucagon in HP rats that was elevated 2--4 times rose during fasting, whereas PV and arterial amino acids declined. HP feeding caused enhanced glucagon release that was associated with increased amino acids in PV and arterial plasma, especially the branched-chain group. Although these findings suggest that protein feeding promotes glucagon release because branched-chain amino acids are elevated, these amino acids are known to have little effect on alpha cell function. Thus, we conclude that protein feeding influences glucagon secretion through some mechanism other than increased blood amino acid levels.", "PMID": 434146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2008", "title": "Effect of pulseless perfusion on gastrointestinal blood flow and its distribution.", "content": "The effect of nonpulsatile (NP) arterial perfusion on gastrointestinal organ blood flow and intraorgan flow distribution was studied in 10 anesthetized (pentobarbital) dogs utilizing the radionuclide-labeled microsphere (15 micrometer) technique. Measurements of flow to the stomach, small intestine, and colon were made during a pulsatile perfusion control period and after 1- and 2-h periods of NP perfusion with a centrifugal left ventricular bypass pump (Medtronic). Total gastric blood flow (0.178 +/- 0.021 ml/min per g) as well as the partitioning of that flow between gastric subsegments such as antrum (17% of total gastric flow), body (83%), and mucosa (73%) was not significantly altered during the 2-h period of NP perfusion (P greater than 0.20). Similarly, flow to the intestine showed significant change during NP perfusion. Under conditions of equivalent hemodynamic states (mean perfusion pressure), nonpulsatile arterial perfusion results in no significant alteration in gastrointestinal blood flow or its intraorgan distribution.", "contents": "Effect of pulseless perfusion on gastrointestinal blood flow and its distribution. The effect of nonpulsatile (NP) arterial perfusion on gastrointestinal organ blood flow and intraorgan flow distribution was studied in 10 anesthetized (pentobarbital) dogs utilizing the radionuclide-labeled microsphere (15 micrometer) technique. Measurements of flow to the stomach, small intestine, and colon were made during a pulsatile perfusion control period and after 1- and 2-h periods of NP perfusion with a centrifugal left ventricular bypass pump (Medtronic). Total gastric blood flow (0.178 +/- 0.021 ml/min per g) as well as the partitioning of that flow between gastric subsegments such as antrum (17% of total gastric flow), body (83%), and mucosa (73%) was not significantly altered during the 2-h period of NP perfusion (P greater than 0.20). Similarly, flow to the intestine showed significant change during NP perfusion. Under conditions of equivalent hemodynamic states (mean perfusion pressure), nonpulsatile arterial perfusion results in no significant alteration in gastrointestinal blood flow or its intraorgan distribution.", "PMID": 434147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2009", "title": "Interaction between gastrin, CCK, and secretin on canine antral smooth muscle in vitro.", "content": "This study compared the actions and interactions of human synthetic gastrin, octapeptide-cholecystokinin (OP-CCK), cholecystokinin (CCK), and secretin on the amplitude of isometric tension developed in strips of dog antral smooth muscle in vitro. Cholecystokinin, OP-CCK, and gastrin produced maximal stimulatory effects at 7.5 x 10(-9), 4.5 x 10(-9), and 3.5 x 10(-9) M, respectively. Secretin alone was ineffective up to 2.5 x 10(-8) M. Observed maximal responses to gastrin, OP-CCK, and CCK tested alone were not significantly different. A submaximal gastrin dose added with OP-CCK, shifted the OP-CCK dose-response curve to the left and significantly reduced the D50, but the calculated maximal response (CMR) did not change. Also, submaximal OP-CCK plus gastrin shifted the gastrin dose-response curve to the left and significantly lowered the D50 with no change in CMR. Secretin decreased CMR but did not change the D50 for gastrin. Responses obtained to gastrin and OP-CCK tested alone were not affected by tetrodotoxin (1 x 10(-5) M), hexamethonium bromide (4 x 10(-5) M), or atropine (1 x 10(-7) M). Larger doses of atropine (5 x 10(-6) M) reduced peptide responses an average 30%. The results indicate that OP-CCK, CCK, and gastrin share a common noncholinergic receptor site. Secretin acts at a different receptor site.", "contents": "Interaction between gastrin, CCK, and secretin on canine antral smooth muscle in vitro. This study compared the actions and interactions of human synthetic gastrin, octapeptide-cholecystokinin (OP-CCK), cholecystokinin (CCK), and secretin on the amplitude of isometric tension developed in strips of dog antral smooth muscle in vitro. Cholecystokinin, OP-CCK, and gastrin produced maximal stimulatory effects at 7.5 x 10(-9), 4.5 x 10(-9), and 3.5 x 10(-9) M, respectively. Secretin alone was ineffective up to 2.5 x 10(-8) M. Observed maximal responses to gastrin, OP-CCK, and CCK tested alone were not significantly different. A submaximal gastrin dose added with OP-CCK, shifted the OP-CCK dose-response curve to the left and significantly reduced the D50, but the calculated maximal response (CMR) did not change. Also, submaximal OP-CCK plus gastrin shifted the gastrin dose-response curve to the left and significantly lowered the D50 with no change in CMR. Secretin decreased CMR but did not change the D50 for gastrin. Responses obtained to gastrin and OP-CCK tested alone were not affected by tetrodotoxin (1 x 10(-5) M), hexamethonium bromide (4 x 10(-5) M), or atropine (1 x 10(-7) M). Larger doses of atropine (5 x 10(-6) M) reduced peptide responses an average 30%. The results indicate that OP-CCK, CCK, and gastrin share a common noncholinergic receptor site. Secretin acts at a different receptor site.", "PMID": 434148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2010", "title": "Drug uptake into everted intestinal sacs. I. Enhancement by hypertonicity.", "content": "The transfer of the cationic drugs, pralidoxime (PAM) and tetraethylammonium, and anionic ampicillin from the mucosal-to-serosal sides of everted rat jejunal sacs is enhanced by mucosal hypertonicity. PAM uptake, which is proportional to initial mucosal concentrations up to 2.3 mM, is enhanced by mucosal hypertonicity due to addition of sodium, potassium, lithium and choline chloride, sodium sulfate, and the nonionic solutes, urea, sucrose, and mannitol. Bicarbonate, Tris, or phosphate buffer and the presence of magnesium and calcium do not affect this hypertonicity-induced acceleration of PAM passage. Serosal osmolality has no effect on transfer and mucosal hypertonicity is equally effective in the presence and absence of a transmural osmotic gradient. This observation and minimal changes in the concentration of inulin placed in the sacs suggest that fluid shifts and solvent drag are not responsible for the enhanced mucosal-to-serosal transfer of PAM from hypertonic buffer. Mucosal hypertonicity at 450 mosmol/kg causes reversible enhancement of PAM transfer, whereas the effect of 600 mosmol/kg cannot be reversed by replacing the tissue in isotonic buffer. The effect of osmotic manipulation on PAM transfer across the intestine thus differs from its effect on the passage of other ionized species and drugs across other epithelia.", "contents": "Drug uptake into everted intestinal sacs. I. Enhancement by hypertonicity. The transfer of the cationic drugs, pralidoxime (PAM) and tetraethylammonium, and anionic ampicillin from the mucosal-to-serosal sides of everted rat jejunal sacs is enhanced by mucosal hypertonicity. PAM uptake, which is proportional to initial mucosal concentrations up to 2.3 mM, is enhanced by mucosal hypertonicity due to addition of sodium, potassium, lithium and choline chloride, sodium sulfate, and the nonionic solutes, urea, sucrose, and mannitol. Bicarbonate, Tris, or phosphate buffer and the presence of magnesium and calcium do not affect this hypertonicity-induced acceleration of PAM passage. Serosal osmolality has no effect on transfer and mucosal hypertonicity is equally effective in the presence and absence of a transmural osmotic gradient. This observation and minimal changes in the concentration of inulin placed in the sacs suggest that fluid shifts and solvent drag are not responsible for the enhanced mucosal-to-serosal transfer of PAM from hypertonic buffer. Mucosal hypertonicity at 450 mosmol/kg causes reversible enhancement of PAM transfer, whereas the effect of 600 mosmol/kg cannot be reversed by replacing the tissue in isotonic buffer. The effect of osmotic manipulation on PAM transfer across the intestine thus differs from its effect on the passage of other ionized species and drugs across other epithelia.", "PMID": 434150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2011", "title": "Determination of human pancreatic cationic trypsinogen in serum by radioimmunoassay.", "content": "A specific radioimmunoassay has been developed for human pancreatic cationic trypsin. The assay has been employed for the determination of immunoreactive forms of pancreatic cationic trypsin in blood. The trypsin employed as radioiodinated tracer in the assay was inactivated with tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone (TLCK) to prevent binding of the tracer to the serum inhibitors while maintaining its immunoreactivity. The average normal serum level determined was 26 ng/ml, with a range of 12--41 ng/ml. Eight of nine patients with acute pancreatic inflammation had at least a 15-fold elevation of total serum immunoreactive cationic trypsin. Cationic trypsinogen and cationic trypsin bound to alpha1-antitrypsin cross-react strongly in the radioimmunoassay. Thus it is possible to measure these potential molecular forms of cationic trypsin in serum. When normal human serum was fractionated on Sephadex G-200, all of the immunoreactive material eluted as a single peak of approximately 23,000 mol wt. No cationic trypsin could be detected in association with alpha1-antitrypsin or alpha2-macroglobulin. The 23,000-mol-wt peak was definitively shown to contain trypsinogen by affinity chromatography and by activation with human enteropeptidase. The identification of cationic trypsinogen in blood implies that the zymogen is secreted into the circulation by the pancreas rather than entering the bloodstream via absorption from the intestine.", "contents": "Determination of human pancreatic cationic trypsinogen in serum by radioimmunoassay. A specific radioimmunoassay has been developed for human pancreatic cationic trypsin. The assay has been employed for the determination of immunoreactive forms of pancreatic cationic trypsin in blood. The trypsin employed as radioiodinated tracer in the assay was inactivated with tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone (TLCK) to prevent binding of the tracer to the serum inhibitors while maintaining its immunoreactivity. The average normal serum level determined was 26 ng/ml, with a range of 12--41 ng/ml. Eight of nine patients with acute pancreatic inflammation had at least a 15-fold elevation of total serum immunoreactive cationic trypsin. Cationic trypsinogen and cationic trypsin bound to alpha1-antitrypsin cross-react strongly in the radioimmunoassay. Thus it is possible to measure these potential molecular forms of cationic trypsin in serum. When normal human serum was fractionated on Sephadex G-200, all of the immunoreactive material eluted as a single peak of approximately 23,000 mol wt. No cationic trypsin could be detected in association with alpha1-antitrypsin or alpha2-macroglobulin. The 23,000-mol-wt peak was definitively shown to contain trypsinogen by affinity chromatography and by activation with human enteropeptidase. The identification of cationic trypsinogen in blood implies that the zymogen is secreted into the circulation by the pancreas rather than entering the bloodstream via absorption from the intestine.", "PMID": 434151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2012", "title": "Effects of AVP and DDAVP on plasma renin activity and electrolyte excretion in conscious dogs.", "content": "Uninephrectomized adult female dogs with chronic indwelling catheters were maintained on a low sodium diet and studied without anesthesia. Following hydration with 3% dextrose, an intravenous infusion of either arginine vasopressin (AVP) or of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) was begun. The dose was calculated to achieve a near maximal physiological plasma concentration of AVP, or an equimolar concentration of DDAVP. Both AVP and DDAVP increased urinary osmolality from less than 60 to over 800 mosmol/kg H2O within 1 h. AVP infusion increased mean arterial pressure and renal electrolyte excretion and decreased heart rate and plasma renin activity (PRA), while DDAVP was without effect on these parameters. AVP infused into the renal artery at doses which did not alter systemic pressure and heart rate caused kaliuresis and reduced PRA. We conclude that the AVP-induced inhibition of renin secretion and increase in renal electrolyte excretion are not secondary to increased tubular permeability to water, but must represent a more specific action of AVP which is not shared by DDAVP.", "contents": "Effects of AVP and DDAVP on plasma renin activity and electrolyte excretion in conscious dogs. Uninephrectomized adult female dogs with chronic indwelling catheters were maintained on a low sodium diet and studied without anesthesia. Following hydration with 3% dextrose, an intravenous infusion of either arginine vasopressin (AVP) or of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) was begun. The dose was calculated to achieve a near maximal physiological plasma concentration of AVP, or an equimolar concentration of DDAVP. Both AVP and DDAVP increased urinary osmolality from less than 60 to over 800 mosmol/kg H2O within 1 h. AVP infusion increased mean arterial pressure and renal electrolyte excretion and decreased heart rate and plasma renin activity (PRA), while DDAVP was without effect on these parameters. AVP infused into the renal artery at doses which did not alter systemic pressure and heart rate caused kaliuresis and reduced PRA. We conclude that the AVP-induced inhibition of renin secretion and increase in renal electrolyte excretion are not secondary to increased tubular permeability to water, but must represent a more specific action of AVP which is not shared by DDAVP.", "PMID": 434155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2013", "title": "Neural mechanism underlying tachycardia induced by nonhypotensive a-v shunt.", "content": "The mechanism underlying tachycardia resulting from nonhypotensive arteriovenous shunt (shunt open plus infusion of blood to compensate for the fall in mean arterial pressure resulting from opening of a shunt) was investigated in anesthetized, artificially ventilated dogs. In dogs with intact autonomic innervation, dogs with beta-adrenergic blockage (BB), and dogs with BB plus spinal section at C7 (BBSS), opening of the shunt resulted in tachycardia (P less than 0.01 for all comparisons), which was, however, not significantly different on comparison among groups (P greater than 0.40 for all comparisons). This shows that afferent and efferent sympathetic-mediated reflexes do not play a significant role in this tachycardia response. Additionally, the tachycardia response was significant in dogs with BBSS plus right or left vagotomy, but it was completely abolished in dogs with BBSS plus bilateral vagotomy. This suggests that in dogs with blockade of sympathetic afferent and efferent pathways, tachycardia resulting from nonhypotensive arteriovenous shunt may be due to a cardioacceleratory reflex with its ascending and its descending pathways in each vagus nerve.", "contents": "Neural mechanism underlying tachycardia induced by nonhypotensive a-v shunt. The mechanism underlying tachycardia resulting from nonhypotensive arteriovenous shunt (shunt open plus infusion of blood to compensate for the fall in mean arterial pressure resulting from opening of a shunt) was investigated in anesthetized, artificially ventilated dogs. In dogs with intact autonomic innervation, dogs with beta-adrenergic blockage (BB), and dogs with BB plus spinal section at C7 (BBSS), opening of the shunt resulted in tachycardia (P less than 0.01 for all comparisons), which was, however, not significantly different on comparison among groups (P greater than 0.40 for all comparisons). This shows that afferent and efferent sympathetic-mediated reflexes do not play a significant role in this tachycardia response. Additionally, the tachycardia response was significant in dogs with BBSS plus right or left vagotomy, but it was completely abolished in dogs with BBSS plus bilateral vagotomy. This suggests that in dogs with blockade of sympathetic afferent and efferent pathways, tachycardia resulting from nonhypotensive arteriovenous shunt may be due to a cardioacceleratory reflex with its ascending and its descending pathways in each vagus nerve.", "PMID": 434157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2014", "title": "Bone blood flow measured by 85 Sr microspheres and bone seeker clearances in the rat.", "content": "This paper investigates further the relationship between the initial bone clearance of a bone-seeking radioisotope or labeled substance and the bone blood flow. The bone blood flow of rats was modified over the widest possible range of physiological values by heating and cooling their hindlimbs. Osseous blood flow was measured by the arteriolar trapping of labeled microspheres of 15 micrometer diameter injected into the left ventricle. The plasma clearances of 45Ca and 99 m Tc by bone were measured 10 min after the intravenous injection of radiocalcium and of 99 m technetium pyrophosphate. The extraction ratio for 45Ca over the 10-min interval (45Ca clearance/bone plasma flow) was 0.60 for low blood flows, 0.40 for blood flows at rest, and 0.25 for high values of flow. The data for 99 m Tc were, respectively, 0.68, 0.34, and 0.22. Initial bone clearances of either substance should not be used to measure the increases in bone blood flow over the values at rest.", "contents": "Bone blood flow measured by 85 Sr microspheres and bone seeker clearances in the rat. This paper investigates further the relationship between the initial bone clearance of a bone-seeking radioisotope or labeled substance and the bone blood flow. The bone blood flow of rats was modified over the widest possible range of physiological values by heating and cooling their hindlimbs. Osseous blood flow was measured by the arteriolar trapping of labeled microspheres of 15 micrometer diameter injected into the left ventricle. The plasma clearances of 45Ca and 99 m Tc by bone were measured 10 min after the intravenous injection of radiocalcium and of 99 m technetium pyrophosphate. The extraction ratio for 45Ca over the 10-min interval (45Ca clearance/bone plasma flow) was 0.60 for low blood flows, 0.40 for blood flows at rest, and 0.25 for high values of flow. The data for 99 m Tc were, respectively, 0.68, 0.34, and 0.22. Initial bone clearances of either substance should not be used to measure the increases in bone blood flow over the values at rest.", "PMID": 434158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2015", "title": "Effects of hypertonic mannitol on cardiac lymph in nonischemic myocardium.", "content": "This investigation was designed to elucidate the effects of hypertonic mannitol on the nonischemic myocardium. In anesthetized open-chest dogs, we collected cardiac lymph for 2 h before and for 4 h during the infusion of hypertonic mannitol or normal saline. We studied the changes in the volume of lymph flow and the release of lysosomal enzyme acid phosphatase and protein into the cardiac lymph. In group 1 (n = 7) and group 3 (n = 8), the effects of 1-h and 4-h infusions of mannitol were studied, respectively. In these dogs, mannitol caused significant rises in lymph flow and release of total acid phosphatase into the cardiac lymph. In group 3, protein efflux increased significantly. In group 2 (n = 5) and group 4 (n = 4), infusion of normal saline for 1 and 4 h did not significantly change the release of total acid phosphatase and proteins into the cardiac lymph. Thus, infusion of hypertonic mannitol for 1--4 h in the nonischemic myocardium may have some deleterious effects because of its apparent ability to impair lysosomal membranes and to increase capillary permeability.", "contents": "Effects of hypertonic mannitol on cardiac lymph in nonischemic myocardium. This investigation was designed to elucidate the effects of hypertonic mannitol on the nonischemic myocardium. In anesthetized open-chest dogs, we collected cardiac lymph for 2 h before and for 4 h during the infusion of hypertonic mannitol or normal saline. We studied the changes in the volume of lymph flow and the release of lysosomal enzyme acid phosphatase and protein into the cardiac lymph. In group 1 (n = 7) and group 3 (n = 8), the effects of 1-h and 4-h infusions of mannitol were studied, respectively. In these dogs, mannitol caused significant rises in lymph flow and release of total acid phosphatase into the cardiac lymph. In group 3, protein efflux increased significantly. In group 2 (n = 5) and group 4 (n = 4), infusion of normal saline for 1 and 4 h did not significantly change the release of total acid phosphatase and proteins into the cardiac lymph. Thus, infusion of hypertonic mannitol for 1--4 h in the nonischemic myocardium may have some deleterious effects because of its apparent ability to impair lysosomal membranes and to increase capillary permeability.", "PMID": 434161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2016", "title": "Contribution of myocardial contractility to myocardial perfusion.", "content": "Myocardial contractility in open-chest anesthetized (sodium pentobarbital) dogs was varied while ventricular pressure, coronary perfusion pressure, and coronary tone were held constant. Under those conditions, changes in regional blood flow should reflect changes only in intramyocardial compression related to the altered inotropic state. Increasing contractility with isoproterenol caused flow to decrease in the outer myocardial layers without change at the subendocardium. When contractility was decreased with pentobarbital, flow at the subendocardium was increased with little change in the outer layers. By manipulating perfusion pressure in the latter experiments it was demonstrated that subendocardial compression was falling from a starting value that was somewhat above peak ventricular pressure.", "contents": "Contribution of myocardial contractility to myocardial perfusion. Myocardial contractility in open-chest anesthetized (sodium pentobarbital) dogs was varied while ventricular pressure, coronary perfusion pressure, and coronary tone were held constant. Under those conditions, changes in regional blood flow should reflect changes only in intramyocardial compression related to the altered inotropic state. Increasing contractility with isoproterenol caused flow to decrease in the outer myocardial layers without change at the subendocardium. When contractility was decreased with pentobarbital, flow at the subendocardium was increased with little change in the outer layers. By manipulating perfusion pressure in the latter experiments it was demonstrated that subendocardial compression was falling from a starting value that was somewhat above peak ventricular pressure.", "PMID": 434162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2017", "title": "Central interaction between the baroreceptor reflexes from the carotid sinus and aortic arch.", "content": "The cardiovascular response to combined stimulation of the aortic nerve (AN) and carotid sinus nerve (CSN) with trains of electrical stimuli was studied in dogs under morphine-chloralose anesthesia. Combined stimulation of both nerves ipsilaterally resulted in systemic arterial depressor responses and cardiac slowing that were 59% and 77% greater (P less than 0.05) than the respective sum of the responses to separate stimulation of these nerves. The depressor response to combined stimulation of these nerves contralaterally was not different (P greater than 0.05) from the sum of the separate responses. However, cardiac slowing to contralateral stimulation of the nerves remained 43% greater (P less than 0.05) than the sum of the individual responses. The results suggest that an interaction between the aortic and carotid baroreceptor reflexes occurs centrally, which causes a greater than additive effect on the autonomic output. The degree of interaction between the reflexes did not change as the delay between the stimulus trains was varied over an interval of 0 and 100 ms. At intervals greater than 100 ms the reflex responses were additive.", "contents": "Central interaction between the baroreceptor reflexes from the carotid sinus and aortic arch. The cardiovascular response to combined stimulation of the aortic nerve (AN) and carotid sinus nerve (CSN) with trains of electrical stimuli was studied in dogs under morphine-chloralose anesthesia. Combined stimulation of both nerves ipsilaterally resulted in systemic arterial depressor responses and cardiac slowing that were 59% and 77% greater (P less than 0.05) than the respective sum of the responses to separate stimulation of these nerves. The depressor response to combined stimulation of these nerves contralaterally was not different (P greater than 0.05) from the sum of the separate responses. However, cardiac slowing to contralateral stimulation of the nerves remained 43% greater (P less than 0.05) than the sum of the individual responses. The results suggest that an interaction between the aortic and carotid baroreceptor reflexes occurs centrally, which causes a greater than additive effect on the autonomic output. The degree of interaction between the reflexes did not change as the delay between the stimulus trains was varied over an interval of 0 and 100 ms. At intervals greater than 100 ms the reflex responses were additive.", "PMID": 434163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2018", "title": "Stimulation of arteriolar number by salbutamol in spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "Experiments were performed to study beta2-adrenergic involvement in arteriolar development in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Newly weaned 20-day WKY and SHR rats were injected with salbutamol, a selective beta2-agonist (50 microgram/day sc, plus 5 mg/100 ml in drinking water), for 20 days. At 40 days, under 2% chloralose-7.5% urethan anesthesia (6 ml/kg), either the cremaster muscle was prepared for in vivo microscopy to estimate the number and diameter of open arterioles or the arterioles were injected with latex to determine the total number of arterioles and their maximal diameters. Control SHRs had 62% (P less than 0.01) fewer open arterioles and a 32% (P less than 0.001) reduction in the total number of arterioles compared to WKY controls. Salbutamol stimulated 67% (P less than 0.001) and 22% (P less than 0.05) increases in total number of the smallest arterioles in the SHR and the WKY, respectively. Salbutamol also significantly reduced the maximum diameter of latex-injected arterioles. These results suggest that the decreased arteriolar density in the cremaster muscle of SHR rats may result from differences in the beta-adrenergic mechanism.", "contents": "Stimulation of arteriolar number by salbutamol in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Experiments were performed to study beta2-adrenergic involvement in arteriolar development in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Newly weaned 20-day WKY and SHR rats were injected with salbutamol, a selective beta2-agonist (50 microgram/day sc, plus 5 mg/100 ml in drinking water), for 20 days. At 40 days, under 2% chloralose-7.5% urethan anesthesia (6 ml/kg), either the cremaster muscle was prepared for in vivo microscopy to estimate the number and diameter of open arterioles or the arterioles were injected with latex to determine the total number of arterioles and their maximal diameters. Control SHRs had 62% (P less than 0.01) fewer open arterioles and a 32% (P less than 0.001) reduction in the total number of arterioles compared to WKY controls. Salbutamol stimulated 67% (P less than 0.001) and 22% (P less than 0.05) increases in total number of the smallest arterioles in the SHR and the WKY, respectively. Salbutamol also significantly reduced the maximum diameter of latex-injected arterioles. These results suggest that the decreased arteriolar density in the cremaster muscle of SHR rats may result from differences in the beta-adrenergic mechanism.", "PMID": 434165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2019", "title": "Oxygen consumption of pial arteries.", "content": "Pial arterioles and arteries, normally responsive to alterations in PaCO2, were obtained by microdissection from the parietal cortex of 53 anesthetized cats. The oxygen consumption of these vessels, determined with the Cartesian diver microrespirometer, was found to be size dependent. It increased progressively from vessels 60 mum in diameter to vessels 250 mum in diameter. In vessels 250--375 mum in diameter there was a progressive decrease in oxygen consumption with increasing vessel size. The oxygen consumption was not altered by increasing the oxygen concentration in the diver from 20% to 95%, or that of glucose from 1.1 to 2.0 mM. Planimetry of histological sections showed that the percentage of endothelium and smooth muscle increased as vessel diameter increased from 60 to 200 mum, and thereafter decreased with increasing vessel size. When these differences in the composition of the vessel wall were taken into account, there was still residual dependence of the oxygen consumption on vessel diameter. This may represent intrinsic differences in the metabolic rate of vascular smooth muscle in vessels of different size.", "contents": "Oxygen consumption of pial arteries. Pial arterioles and arteries, normally responsive to alterations in PaCO2, were obtained by microdissection from the parietal cortex of 53 anesthetized cats. The oxygen consumption of these vessels, determined with the Cartesian diver microrespirometer, was found to be size dependent. It increased progressively from vessels 60 mum in diameter to vessels 250 mum in diameter. In vessels 250--375 mum in diameter there was a progressive decrease in oxygen consumption with increasing vessel size. The oxygen consumption was not altered by increasing the oxygen concentration in the diver from 20% to 95%, or that of glucose from 1.1 to 2.0 mM. Planimetry of histological sections showed that the percentage of endothelium and smooth muscle increased as vessel diameter increased from 60 to 200 mum, and thereafter decreased with increasing vessel size. When these differences in the composition of the vessel wall were taken into account, there was still residual dependence of the oxygen consumption on vessel diameter. This may represent intrinsic differences in the metabolic rate of vascular smooth muscle in vessels of different size.", "PMID": 434166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2020", "title": "Arteriolar closure mediated by hyperresponsiveness to norepinephrine in hypertensive rats.", "content": "This study was designed to determine if a mechanism exists to cause abnormally large number of arterioles to be closed to blood flow in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The contributions to vessel closure by neural control and constrictor response to norepinephrine were investigated. Normal rats (WKY) and SHR were studied at age 18--20 wk. Their respective mean arterial blood pressures were 100 +/- 4 (SE) and 154 +/- 7 mmHg when anesthetized with 10% urethan and 2% alpha-chloralose (0.6 mg/100 g ip). The number of arterioles open to blood flow was counted in a large portion of the cremasteric muscle before and after denervation. The percent change in control diameter of denervated arterioles was measured during iontophoretic application (2 min) of norepinephrine at dose currents of 10--300 nA. Following denervation, a 22.2 +/- 6.3% (SE) and 61.8 +/- 12 increase in the number of third-order arterioles open to flow occurred in WKY and SHR. The diameters, wall thicknesses, and cross-sectional areas of vessel walls were not significantly (P less than 0.05) different for comparable types of denervated arterioles in WKY and SHR. The percent changes in diameters of arterioles in SHR were 3--5 times greater at all dose currents than for vessels of WKY. These data indicate arteriolar closure occurs with higher incidence in SHR than WKY and is mediated by hyperresponsiveness of arterioles to norepinephrine.", "contents": "Arteriolar closure mediated by hyperresponsiveness to norepinephrine in hypertensive rats. This study was designed to determine if a mechanism exists to cause abnormally large number of arterioles to be closed to blood flow in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The contributions to vessel closure by neural control and constrictor response to norepinephrine were investigated. Normal rats (WKY) and SHR were studied at age 18--20 wk. Their respective mean arterial blood pressures were 100 +/- 4 (SE) and 154 +/- 7 mmHg when anesthetized with 10% urethan and 2% alpha-chloralose (0.6 mg/100 g ip). The number of arterioles open to blood flow was counted in a large portion of the cremasteric muscle before and after denervation. The percent change in control diameter of denervated arterioles was measured during iontophoretic application (2 min) of norepinephrine at dose currents of 10--300 nA. Following denervation, a 22.2 +/- 6.3% (SE) and 61.8 +/- 12 increase in the number of third-order arterioles open to flow occurred in WKY and SHR. The diameters, wall thicknesses, and cross-sectional areas of vessel walls were not significantly (P less than 0.05) different for comparable types of denervated arterioles in WKY and SHR. The percent changes in diameters of arterioles in SHR were 3--5 times greater at all dose currents than for vessels of WKY. These data indicate arteriolar closure occurs with higher incidence in SHR than WKY and is mediated by hyperresponsiveness of arterioles to norepinephrine.", "PMID": 434167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2021", "title": "Role of receptor elements in baroceptor resetting.", "content": "Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), 4 wk of age, were treated with antihypertensive agents for 40 wk. The treatment was withdrawn for 2 wk so that the animals experienced hypertension for about 1 wk. The aortic arch was then perfused and aortic nerve activity was recorded. The threshold pressure was 140 mmHg in these SHR. This threshold pressure was less than that observed in age-matched untreated SHR (160--180 mmHg) but greater than that observed in age-matched Kyoto-Wistar rats (80--120 mmHg), indicating partial baroceptor resetting. No significant changes were observed in the vascular wall in these SHR, and partial baroceptor resetting was completely reversed when short duration of hypertension was reversed. On the other hand, baroceptor resetting in untreated SHR was always accompanied by significant changes in vascular wall, and reversal of baroceptor resetting was contingent upon regression of vascular wall hypertrophy. Partial baroceptor resetting in absence of significant changes in vascular wall may be explained by adaptation of baroceptors to persistent high blood pressure.", "contents": "Role of receptor elements in baroceptor resetting. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), 4 wk of age, were treated with antihypertensive agents for 40 wk. The treatment was withdrawn for 2 wk so that the animals experienced hypertension for about 1 wk. The aortic arch was then perfused and aortic nerve activity was recorded. The threshold pressure was 140 mmHg in these SHR. This threshold pressure was less than that observed in age-matched untreated SHR (160--180 mmHg) but greater than that observed in age-matched Kyoto-Wistar rats (80--120 mmHg), indicating partial baroceptor resetting. No significant changes were observed in the vascular wall in these SHR, and partial baroceptor resetting was completely reversed when short duration of hypertension was reversed. On the other hand, baroceptor resetting in untreated SHR was always accompanied by significant changes in vascular wall, and reversal of baroceptor resetting was contingent upon regression of vascular wall hypertrophy. Partial baroceptor resetting in absence of significant changes in vascular wall may be explained by adaptation of baroceptors to persistent high blood pressure.", "PMID": 434168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2022", "title": "An automatic cardiac action potential duration meter.", "content": "The duration of a cardiac action potential (AP) is measured from the beginning of its upstroke to the end of its asymptotic repolarization phase: the end being given by a point in proportion to the AP amplitude. If the resting potential, AP amplitude, as well as the duration, alter simultaneously, frequent accurate measurements can be extremely tedious. A fully automatic AP duration meter has thus been constructed to cope with these difficulties while measuring within about 2% on a beat-to-beat basis. It is suitable either for brief sampling of AP durations when recording with microelectrodes, which may impale cells intermittently, or for continuous monitoring, as with suction electrodes on intact beating hearts in situ. For example, the device can faithfully track changes in duration during periods of regional myocardial ischemia in intact ventricles in situ while the AP alters its base line, upstroke velocity, amplitude, and duration.", "contents": "An automatic cardiac action potential duration meter. The duration of a cardiac action potential (AP) is measured from the beginning of its upstroke to the end of its asymptotic repolarization phase: the end being given by a point in proportion to the AP amplitude. If the resting potential, AP amplitude, as well as the duration, alter simultaneously, frequent accurate measurements can be extremely tedious. A fully automatic AP duration meter has thus been constructed to cope with these difficulties while measuring within about 2% on a beat-to-beat basis. It is suitable either for brief sampling of AP durations when recording with microelectrodes, which may impale cells intermittently, or for continuous monitoring, as with suction electrodes on intact beating hearts in situ. For example, the device can faithfully track changes in duration during periods of regional myocardial ischemia in intact ventricles in situ while the AP alters its base line, upstroke velocity, amplitude, and duration.", "PMID": 434169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2023", "title": "Measurement of myocardial PCO2 with a microelectrode: its relation to coronary sinus PCO2.", "content": "A micro-PCO2 electrode, with dimensions of 1 x 10 mm, and a 63% response time of 14 s was inserted into the left ventricular myocardium of the pentobarbital-anesthetized dog. Continuous recordings were made of myocardial PCO2 (PmCO2), arterial PCO2 (PaCO2), and coronary sinus PCO2 (CSPCO2) during variation of respiratory rate. PmCO2 and CSPCO2 were compared at varying coronary flow. PmCO2 was similar to and closely followed changes in CSPCO2. The difference between PmCO2 and CSPCO2 was -0.52 +/- 3.63 (SD) mmHg, and PmCO2 exceeded PaCO2 by 20.69 +/- 5.12 mmHg. After coronary occlusion, PmCO2, rose promptly, but CSPCO2 was only slightly elevated until the occlusion was released, when a CO2 efflux into the coronary sinus occurred. It is concluded that the electrode measures extracellular PCO2 and that extracellular and myocardial PCO2 are essentially equal. PmCO2 rises rapidly following coronary occlusion.", "contents": "Measurement of myocardial PCO2 with a microelectrode: its relation to coronary sinus PCO2. A micro-PCO2 electrode, with dimensions of 1 x 10 mm, and a 63% response time of 14 s was inserted into the left ventricular myocardium of the pentobarbital-anesthetized dog. Continuous recordings were made of myocardial PCO2 (PmCO2), arterial PCO2 (PaCO2), and coronary sinus PCO2 (CSPCO2) during variation of respiratory rate. PmCO2 and CSPCO2 were compared at varying coronary flow. PmCO2 was similar to and closely followed changes in CSPCO2. The difference between PmCO2 and CSPCO2 was -0.52 +/- 3.63 (SD) mmHg, and PmCO2 exceeded PaCO2 by 20.69 +/- 5.12 mmHg. After coronary occlusion, PmCO2, rose promptly, but CSPCO2 was only slightly elevated until the occlusion was released, when a CO2 efflux into the coronary sinus occurred. It is concluded that the electrode measures extracellular PCO2 and that extracellular and myocardial PCO2 are essentially equal. PmCO2 rises rapidly following coronary occlusion.", "PMID": 434171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2024", "title": "Effect of central venous pressure on arterial baroreflex control of heart rate.", "content": "There is considerable evidence that the level of afferent cardiopulmonary receptor activity modulates sinus node responses to arterial baroreflex stimulation in experimental animals. We tested the hypothesis that this reflex interaction occurs also in man by measuring sinus node responses to arterial baroreceptor stimulation with phenylephrine injection or neck suction, before and during changes of central venous pressure provoked by lower body negative pressure or leg and lower trunk elevation. Variations of central venous pressure between 1.1 and 9.0 mmHg did not influence arterial baroreflex mediated bradycardia. Baroreflex sinus node responses were augmented by intravenous propranolol, but the level of responses after propranolol was comparable during the control state, lower body negative pressure, and leg and trunk elevation. Sinus node responses to very brief baroreceptor stimuli applied during the transitions of central venous pressure also were comparable in the three states. We conclude that physiological variations of central venous pressure do not influence sinus node responses to arterial baroreceptor stimulation in man.", "contents": "Effect of central venous pressure on arterial baroreflex control of heart rate. There is considerable evidence that the level of afferent cardiopulmonary receptor activity modulates sinus node responses to arterial baroreflex stimulation in experimental animals. We tested the hypothesis that this reflex interaction occurs also in man by measuring sinus node responses to arterial baroreceptor stimulation with phenylephrine injection or neck suction, before and during changes of central venous pressure provoked by lower body negative pressure or leg and lower trunk elevation. Variations of central venous pressure between 1.1 and 9.0 mmHg did not influence arterial baroreflex mediated bradycardia. Baroreflex sinus node responses were augmented by intravenous propranolol, but the level of responses after propranolol was comparable during the control state, lower body negative pressure, and leg and trunk elevation. Sinus node responses to very brief baroreceptor stimuli applied during the transitions of central venous pressure also were comparable in the three states. We conclude that physiological variations of central venous pressure do not influence sinus node responses to arterial baroreceptor stimulation in man.", "PMID": 434172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2025", "title": "Prevention of salt-induced hypertension in the Dahl strain by 6-hydroxydopamine.", "content": "Salt-induced hypertension in Dahl's genetically hypertensive rat has been attributed to humoral or renal factors. However, a recent study from our laboratory suggested that neurogenic mechanisms contribute to salt-induced increased in hindquarters vascular resistance in Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rats. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that \"chemical sympathectomy\" with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) prevents salt-induced hypertension and increased vascular resistance in S rats. Hypertension did not develop during high-salt diet (8% NaCl) in S rats treated with 6-OHDA, (75--100 mg/kg ip), whereas in rats treated with vehicle, hypertension developed after 4 wk of high salt diet. Chow consumption, sodium excretion, and weight gain were not altered by 6-OHDA. Hindquarters vascular resistance and neurogenic vasoconstrictor tone were significantly lower in S rats treated with 6-OHDA than in S rats treated with vehicle. 6-OHDA also significantly reduced responses to direct sympathetic nerve stimulation and tyramine. These results suggest that an intact sympathetic nervous system plays an essential role in the development of salt-induced increase in blood pressure in Dahl S rats.", "contents": "Prevention of salt-induced hypertension in the Dahl strain by 6-hydroxydopamine. Salt-induced hypertension in Dahl's genetically hypertensive rat has been attributed to humoral or renal factors. However, a recent study from our laboratory suggested that neurogenic mechanisms contribute to salt-induced increased in hindquarters vascular resistance in Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rats. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that \"chemical sympathectomy\" with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) prevents salt-induced hypertension and increased vascular resistance in S rats. Hypertension did not develop during high-salt diet (8% NaCl) in S rats treated with 6-OHDA, (75--100 mg/kg ip), whereas in rats treated with vehicle, hypertension developed after 4 wk of high salt diet. Chow consumption, sodium excretion, and weight gain were not altered by 6-OHDA. Hindquarters vascular resistance and neurogenic vasoconstrictor tone were significantly lower in S rats treated with 6-OHDA than in S rats treated with vehicle. 6-OHDA also significantly reduced responses to direct sympathetic nerve stimulation and tyramine. These results suggest that an intact sympathetic nervous system plays an essential role in the development of salt-induced increase in blood pressure in Dahl S rats.", "PMID": 434173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2026", "title": "Hydraulic conductivity of the endothelial and outer layers of the rabbit aorta.", "content": "Pressure-driven fluid flow across the arterial wall was measured to determine wall hydraulic conductivity (Lp) before and after removal of the endothelium. The thoracic aortas of rabbits, anesthetized with Nembutal, were cannulated, perfused with oxygenated Ringer solution, and removed. With one cannula connected to a capillary manometer and the other closed, the manometer meniscus shift could be used as an indication of fluid loss through the wall plus vessel volume increase (creep). The latter effect, when measured, accounted for about one-fourth of the total volume displacement. The Lp given in cm/(s.cmH2O) +/- SD, was 3.30 +/- 0.96 x 10(-8). Another method employed continuous weighing of a closed aortic segment to obtain fluid loss, and yielded an Lp of 4.07 +/- 1.3 x 10(-8), and after mechanically removing the endothelium, the Lp became 7.73 +/- 2.8 x 10(-8). Using the above data, an Lp could be calculated for aortic endothelium of 8.6 x 10(-8). This suggests that about half the total transmural pressure drop occurs across the endothelium. Scanning electronmicrographs were used to check the condition of the endothelium.", "contents": "Hydraulic conductivity of the endothelial and outer layers of the rabbit aorta. Pressure-driven fluid flow across the arterial wall was measured to determine wall hydraulic conductivity (Lp) before and after removal of the endothelium. The thoracic aortas of rabbits, anesthetized with Nembutal, were cannulated, perfused with oxygenated Ringer solution, and removed. With one cannula connected to a capillary manometer and the other closed, the manometer meniscus shift could be used as an indication of fluid loss through the wall plus vessel volume increase (creep). The latter effect, when measured, accounted for about one-fourth of the total volume displacement. The Lp given in cm/(s.cmH2O) +/- SD, was 3.30 +/- 0.96 x 10(-8). Another method employed continuous weighing of a closed aortic segment to obtain fluid loss, and yielded an Lp of 4.07 +/- 1.3 x 10(-8), and after mechanically removing the endothelium, the Lp became 7.73 +/- 2.8 x 10(-8). Using the above data, an Lp could be calculated for aortic endothelium of 8.6 x 10(-8). This suggests that about half the total transmural pressure drop occurs across the endothelium. Scanning electronmicrographs were used to check the condition of the endothelium.", "PMID": 434174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2027", "title": "Ovine placental vascular responses to indomethacin.", "content": "The administration of 10 mg/kg indomethacin to chronically catheterized near-term sheep resulted in a change in cotyledonary vascular resistance from 0.133 +/- 0.016 to 0.180 +/- 0.022 (mmHg . min)/ml (P less than 0.001). The noncotyledonary uterine vascular resistance increased to 191% of the original value (P less than 0.001) and the renal vascular resistance increased to 147% of the control value (P less than 0.001). The maternal blood pressure increased from 96 +/- 3.4 to 108 +/- 3.4 mmHg (P less than 0.001). Indomethacin (12 mg/kg) was given to nine fetuses, and observations were made in the control condition and at 15, 120, and 240 min. Cotyledonary vascular resistances were 144%, 152%, and 213% of the control values at those times. All changes were significant (P less than 0.03). The umbilical vascular resistance rose slowly throughout the study even though the concentration of indomethacin was falling during that time. These data suggest that this response may be an indirect effect. In the maternal circulation the rapid increase in the cotyledonary vascular resistance seen after indomethacin was probably due to a decreased level of endogenous prostaglandin synthesis.", "contents": "Ovine placental vascular responses to indomethacin. The administration of 10 mg/kg indomethacin to chronically catheterized near-term sheep resulted in a change in cotyledonary vascular resistance from 0.133 +/- 0.016 to 0.180 +/- 0.022 (mmHg . min)/ml (P less than 0.001). The noncotyledonary uterine vascular resistance increased to 191% of the original value (P less than 0.001) and the renal vascular resistance increased to 147% of the control value (P less than 0.001). The maternal blood pressure increased from 96 +/- 3.4 to 108 +/- 3.4 mmHg (P less than 0.001). Indomethacin (12 mg/kg) was given to nine fetuses, and observations were made in the control condition and at 15, 120, and 240 min. Cotyledonary vascular resistances were 144%, 152%, and 213% of the control values at those times. All changes were significant (P less than 0.03). The umbilical vascular resistance rose slowly throughout the study even though the concentration of indomethacin was falling during that time. These data suggest that this response may be an indirect effect. In the maternal circulation the rapid increase in the cotyledonary vascular resistance seen after indomethacin was probably due to a decreased level of endogenous prostaglandin synthesis.", "PMID": 434175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2028", "title": "Shunting of microspheres across the canine coronary circulation.", "content": "Coronary shunting of 9 +/-1 micrometer and 25 +/- 5 micrometer radiolabeled microspheres was examined in anesthetized, open-chest dogs, whose left common coronary arteries were perfused at controlled pressures. Shunting was estimated from the difference in radioactivity between perfusion line and coronary sinus blood samples during selective elevations of coronary perfusion pressure (CPP), left ventricular afterload, and inspired oxygen. A linear relationship was found between coronary shunting of 9-micrometer microspheres and CPP over the range 100-200 mmHg. According to regression analysis, percent shunt flow was 4.0% at control CPP (100 mmHg) and 10.0% at CPP of 200 mmHg. No shunting of 25-micrometer microspheres occurred at any CPP. Raising afterload did not affect shunting at control CPP but attenuated the increase in shunting at elevated CPP. Changing inspired gas from room air to 100% oxygen did not influence shunting at control or elevated CPP. Raising CPP to 150 and 200 mmHg also released 2.5% and 5.9% of pretrapped 9-micrometer microspheres, respectively. This study demonstrates that vessels permitting passage of microspheres across coronary circulation are sensitive to elevated perfusion pressure.", "contents": "Shunting of microspheres across the canine coronary circulation. Coronary shunting of 9 +/-1 micrometer and 25 +/- 5 micrometer radiolabeled microspheres was examined in anesthetized, open-chest dogs, whose left common coronary arteries were perfused at controlled pressures. Shunting was estimated from the difference in radioactivity between perfusion line and coronary sinus blood samples during selective elevations of coronary perfusion pressure (CPP), left ventricular afterload, and inspired oxygen. A linear relationship was found between coronary shunting of 9-micrometer microspheres and CPP over the range 100-200 mmHg. According to regression analysis, percent shunt flow was 4.0% at control CPP (100 mmHg) and 10.0% at CPP of 200 mmHg. No shunting of 25-micrometer microspheres occurred at any CPP. Raising afterload did not affect shunting at control CPP but attenuated the increase in shunting at elevated CPP. Changing inspired gas from room air to 100% oxygen did not influence shunting at control or elevated CPP. Raising CPP to 150 and 200 mmHg also released 2.5% and 5.9% of pretrapped 9-micrometer microspheres, respectively. This study demonstrates that vessels permitting passage of microspheres across coronary circulation are sensitive to elevated perfusion pressure.", "PMID": 434177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2029", "title": "Plasma volumes and hematocrits in rats with chronic sinoaortic denervation hypertension.", "content": "Plasma volume changes were assessed in female Wistar rats with neurogenic hypertension induced by sinoaortic denervation, SAD. Tail veins of conscious, restrained rats were used for injection of Evans blue dye and for sampling into microhematocrit tubes. Only at 3 days did total plasma volume of SAD rats show a modest reduction of about 16% (P less than 0.05 vs. sham-operated plus unoperated controls). At 3, 6, and 13 wk, SAD mean body weight, plasma volume, and sodium concentration were similar to sham values. SAD hematocrits, however, like arterial pressures, were elevated at all postoperative times studied. In anesthetized SAD and sham rats, red blood cell (51Cr method) and plasma volumes were the same and so were hematocrits. The latter was unlike the finding in unanesthetized groups. Hematocrits from the same SAD rats were lower after induction of anesthesia than before (P less than 0.025). Thus, elevated hematocrits apparently resulted from the release of sequestered red blood cells into the circulation by unanesthetized SAD rats. In conclusion, plasma volume is within the normal range in SAD rats except for the first few postoperative days. Factors affecting volume regulation at that time are discussed.", "contents": "Plasma volumes and hematocrits in rats with chronic sinoaortic denervation hypertension. Plasma volume changes were assessed in female Wistar rats with neurogenic hypertension induced by sinoaortic denervation, SAD. Tail veins of conscious, restrained rats were used for injection of Evans blue dye and for sampling into microhematocrit tubes. Only at 3 days did total plasma volume of SAD rats show a modest reduction of about 16% (P less than 0.05 vs. sham-operated plus unoperated controls). At 3, 6, and 13 wk, SAD mean body weight, plasma volume, and sodium concentration were similar to sham values. SAD hematocrits, however, like arterial pressures, were elevated at all postoperative times studied. In anesthetized SAD and sham rats, red blood cell (51Cr method) and plasma volumes were the same and so were hematocrits. The latter was unlike the finding in unanesthetized groups. Hematocrits from the same SAD rats were lower after induction of anesthesia than before (P less than 0.025). Thus, elevated hematocrits apparently resulted from the release of sequestered red blood cells into the circulation by unanesthetized SAD rats. In conclusion, plasma volume is within the normal range in SAD rats except for the first few postoperative days. Factors affecting volume regulation at that time are discussed.", "PMID": 434179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2030", "title": "Plasma and lymph dopamine-beta-hydroxylase and norepinephrine during carotid occlusion.", "content": "Dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) and norepinephrine (NE) levels in superior mesenteric venous (SMV) and arterial blood and in intestinal lymph were determined sequentially before and during carotid artery occlusion (CAO) in anesthetized rabbits. During the first 15 min of CAO, SMV plasma NE increased 77% but SMV plasma DBH increased only 11%. During the second 15 min of CAO, SMV NE declined to 36% above control but SMV DBH rose further and peaked to 29% above control after CAO was released; arterial DBH and NE showed small insignificant changes. Lymph DBH and NE increased simultaneously throughout the period of CAO. Increases in mean arterial pressure during CAO correlated with superior mesenteric venous NE (r = 0.58, P less than 0.01). In additional experiments, hepatic vein plasma NE was 74% lower than portal vein NE. Thus, during acute sympathetic activation, DBH and NE increase in mesenteric venous plasma and intestinal lymph but the peak response of plasma DBH lags behind that of NE. The degree of NE change in the general circulation is minimized due to hepatic clearance of NE.", "contents": "Plasma and lymph dopamine-beta-hydroxylase and norepinephrine during carotid occlusion. Dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) and norepinephrine (NE) levels in superior mesenteric venous (SMV) and arterial blood and in intestinal lymph were determined sequentially before and during carotid artery occlusion (CAO) in anesthetized rabbits. During the first 15 min of CAO, SMV plasma NE increased 77% but SMV plasma DBH increased only 11%. During the second 15 min of CAO, SMV NE declined to 36% above control but SMV DBH rose further and peaked to 29% above control after CAO was released; arterial DBH and NE showed small insignificant changes. Lymph DBH and NE increased simultaneously throughout the period of CAO. Increases in mean arterial pressure during CAO correlated with superior mesenteric venous NE (r = 0.58, P less than 0.01). In additional experiments, hepatic vein plasma NE was 74% lower than portal vein NE. Thus, during acute sympathetic activation, DBH and NE increase in mesenteric venous plasma and intestinal lymph but the peak response of plasma DBH lags behind that of NE. The degree of NE change in the general circulation is minimized due to hepatic clearance of NE.", "PMID": 434180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2031", "title": "Spinal cord, hypothalamic, and air temperature: interaction with arousal states in the marmot.", "content": "Yellow-bellied marmots, Marmota flaviventris, prepared with U-shaped thermodes in the epidural space of the thoracic vertebral canal, a thermode in the preoptic hypothalamus, and cortical surface and hippocampal electrodes, were used to investigate the interaction of arousal states with temperature regulation. It was found that arousal state of the animal influences the thermoregulatory responses initiated in either the spinal cord or hypothalamus. Further, changes in ambient temperature affected both the gain and the threshold of these responses. The interaction of the hypothalamus and spinal cord was not an additive function, however the threshold for shivering of each could be altered by temperature manipulation of the other. Future studies in modeling of temperature regulation should consider the contributions of temperature receptors of the spinal cord and the arousal state of the animal during the stimulation period.", "contents": "Spinal cord, hypothalamic, and air temperature: interaction with arousal states in the marmot. Yellow-bellied marmots, Marmota flaviventris, prepared with U-shaped thermodes in the epidural space of the thoracic vertebral canal, a thermode in the preoptic hypothalamus, and cortical surface and hippocampal electrodes, were used to investigate the interaction of arousal states with temperature regulation. It was found that arousal state of the animal influences the thermoregulatory responses initiated in either the spinal cord or hypothalamus. Further, changes in ambient temperature affected both the gain and the threshold of these responses. The interaction of the hypothalamus and spinal cord was not an additive function, however the threshold for shivering of each could be altered by temperature manipulation of the other. Future studies in modeling of temperature regulation should consider the contributions of temperature receptors of the spinal cord and the arousal state of the animal during the stimulation period.", "PMID": 434182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2032", "title": "Inhibition of osmotic thirst by electric stimulation of the basal forebrain in dogs.", "content": "The effect of electrical brain stimulation (ESB; 50 Hz, 50-150 microA sine wave, 5 s on/5 s off) on osmotic thirst was examined in 10 conscious dogs chronically implanted with electrodes aimed at the anteromedial part of the basal forebrain. Suppression of osmotic thirst (SOT) was observed during stimulation through 18 of 41 electrodes located in the olfactory tubercle, the nucleus accumbens, the caudate nucleus, the medial septum, and the lateral preoptic-anterolateral hypothalamic area (PrA/ALH). Mean increment in plasma osmolality necessary to cause drinking rose from 9.0 +/- 1.5 mosmol (X +/- SE; n = 15) under control conditions to 15.8 +/- 2.6 mosmol (n = 18) during ESB in SOT placements. Threshold cellular dehydration eliciting drinking increased from 2.70 +/- 0.50% of intracellular water (ICW;n = 16) to 4.77 +/- 0.68% of ICW (n = 18), respectively. The strongest SOT was found during ESB in the nucleus accumbens, and the PrA/ALH. The same stimulation failed to inhibit feeding, support self-stimulation or produce appreciable changes of dog's gross behavior. The results give evidence for the existence in the basal forebrain of the dog a widely distributed neural system suppressing osmotic thirst. The nucleus accumbens and the PrA/ALH seem to play an important role in this system.", "contents": "Inhibition of osmotic thirst by electric stimulation of the basal forebrain in dogs. The effect of electrical brain stimulation (ESB; 50 Hz, 50-150 microA sine wave, 5 s on/5 s off) on osmotic thirst was examined in 10 conscious dogs chronically implanted with electrodes aimed at the anteromedial part of the basal forebrain. Suppression of osmotic thirst (SOT) was observed during stimulation through 18 of 41 electrodes located in the olfactory tubercle, the nucleus accumbens, the caudate nucleus, the medial septum, and the lateral preoptic-anterolateral hypothalamic area (PrA/ALH). Mean increment in plasma osmolality necessary to cause drinking rose from 9.0 +/- 1.5 mosmol (X +/- SE; n = 15) under control conditions to 15.8 +/- 2.6 mosmol (n = 18) during ESB in SOT placements. Threshold cellular dehydration eliciting drinking increased from 2.70 +/- 0.50% of intracellular water (ICW;n = 16) to 4.77 +/- 0.68% of ICW (n = 18), respectively. The strongest SOT was found during ESB in the nucleus accumbens, and the PrA/ALH. The same stimulation failed to inhibit feeding, support self-stimulation or produce appreciable changes of dog's gross behavior. The results give evidence for the existence in the basal forebrain of the dog a widely distributed neural system suppressing osmotic thirst. The nucleus accumbens and the PrA/ALH seem to play an important role in this system.", "PMID": 434183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2033", "title": "A chronic cannula for obtaining CSF from the cisterna magna of awake dogs.", "content": "We have designed a cannula system that can be chronically implanted to end above the dura of the cisterna magna of the dog. During experiments in the awake dog, a screw cap with stylet is removed from the cannula and a spinal needle inserted for the withdrawal of samples of cisternal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or for making continuous measurements of pressure. The system can be used for repeated experiments extending over several weeks.", "contents": "A chronic cannula for obtaining CSF from the cisterna magna of awake dogs. We have designed a cannula system that can be chronically implanted to end above the dura of the cisterna magna of the dog. During experiments in the awake dog, a screw cap with stylet is removed from the cannula and a spinal needle inserted for the withdrawal of samples of cisternal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or for making continuous measurements of pressure. The system can be used for repeated experiments extending over several weeks.", "PMID": 434184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2034", "title": "Metabolism of the acutely ischemic dog heart. II. Interpretation of a model.", "content": "The glycolytic oscillations occurring in an acutely ischemic dog heart are analyzed with a computer model. The major regulations of the glycolytic pathway flux occur at phosphohexose isomerase, which is inhibited by accumulated pentose shunt intermediates; at phosphorylase, which shapes the first cycle of the oscillation; and at aldolase, which shapes the last two cycles. Aldolase is not under normal substrate control. Its activity, and that of some subsequent glycolytic enzymes, appears to be regulated by known interactions with the muscle proteins. The mitochondria become reduced as a result of anoxia, and their metabolism reorganizes to export rather than import reducing equivalents. It is in general feasible to account for the behavior of this preparation in terms of the known metabolism of less severely perturbed hearts, especially (but not completely) in terms of effects of anoxia. The reasons for the inapplicability of the crossover theorem previously used to analyze this preparation are described.", "contents": "Metabolism of the acutely ischemic dog heart. II. Interpretation of a model. The glycolytic oscillations occurring in an acutely ischemic dog heart are analyzed with a computer model. The major regulations of the glycolytic pathway flux occur at phosphohexose isomerase, which is inhibited by accumulated pentose shunt intermediates; at phosphorylase, which shapes the first cycle of the oscillation; and at aldolase, which shapes the last two cycles. Aldolase is not under normal substrate control. Its activity, and that of some subsequent glycolytic enzymes, appears to be regulated by known interactions with the muscle proteins. The mitochondria become reduced as a result of anoxia, and their metabolism reorganizes to export rather than import reducing equivalents. It is in general feasible to account for the behavior of this preparation in terms of the known metabolism of less severely perturbed hearts, especially (but not completely) in terms of effects of anoxia. The reasons for the inapplicability of the crossover theorem previously used to analyze this preparation are described.", "PMID": 434185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2035", "title": "Essential role of mean circulatory filling pressure in salt-induced hypertension.", "content": "Experimental hypertension was produced in nine dogs by continuously infusing isotonic saline after renal mass had been surgically reduced to approximately 30% normal. Data were collected during 8 days of base-line measurements and 13 days of saline infusion to determine the cause of the initial increase in cardiac output observed in this type of hypertension and to measure other variables possibly important in the pathogenesis of hypertension. During the infusion period, these dogs demonstrated an increase in arterial pressure to hypertensive levels, transient increases in blood volume, sodium space, and cardiac output, initially depressed then subsequently elevated total peripheral resistance, and decreases in plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration. The mean circulatory filling pressure increased 4.7 Torr by day 3 and was still elevated 2 Torr at the end of the 2nd wk of infusion. We conclude that the initial increase in cardiac output in salt-loading hypertension is due to elevated fluid volumes and the associated increase in mean circulatory filling pressure.", "contents": "Essential role of mean circulatory filling pressure in salt-induced hypertension. Experimental hypertension was produced in nine dogs by continuously infusing isotonic saline after renal mass had been surgically reduced to approximately 30% normal. Data were collected during 8 days of base-line measurements and 13 days of saline infusion to determine the cause of the initial increase in cardiac output observed in this type of hypertension and to measure other variables possibly important in the pathogenesis of hypertension. During the infusion period, these dogs demonstrated an increase in arterial pressure to hypertensive levels, transient increases in blood volume, sodium space, and cardiac output, initially depressed then subsequently elevated total peripheral resistance, and decreases in plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration. The mean circulatory filling pressure increased 4.7 Torr by day 3 and was still elevated 2 Torr at the end of the 2nd wk of infusion. We conclude that the initial increase in cardiac output in salt-loading hypertension is due to elevated fluid volumes and the associated increase in mean circulatory filling pressure.", "PMID": 434186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2036", "title": "Evaluation of in vivo brain site perfusion with the push-pull cannula.", "content": "The effect of tissue site perfusion with push-pull cannulas on the integrity of brain tissue was evaluated during in vivo studies in conscious New Zealand rabbits. The mean rate of perfusion-induced tissue disruption was 1.09 microgram tissue wet wt/min as estimated from the perfusate levels of endogenous nervous system specific proteins (S-100 and 14-3-2). The level of intravenously injected 125I-labeled bovine serum albumin recovered in perfusate samples indicated that approximately 2.0 nl serum/min penetrated the vascular barrier into the perfused tissue site. The appearance of intraventricularly injected solutes in perfusate samples was subjected to regression analysis. It was demonstrated that nonspecific variations in the appearance of one substance in the perfusate could be controlled for by a regression on the levels of another concurrently recovered inert substance. The experiments demonstrate that tissue site perfusion can provide useful access to brain extracellular fluid when suitable controls are incorporated for recovery variation and blood-brain barrier seepage.", "contents": "Evaluation of in vivo brain site perfusion with the push-pull cannula. The effect of tissue site perfusion with push-pull cannulas on the integrity of brain tissue was evaluated during in vivo studies in conscious New Zealand rabbits. The mean rate of perfusion-induced tissue disruption was 1.09 microgram tissue wet wt/min as estimated from the perfusate levels of endogenous nervous system specific proteins (S-100 and 14-3-2). The level of intravenously injected 125I-labeled bovine serum albumin recovered in perfusate samples indicated that approximately 2.0 nl serum/min penetrated the vascular barrier into the perfused tissue site. The appearance of intraventricularly injected solutes in perfusate samples was subjected to regression analysis. It was demonstrated that nonspecific variations in the appearance of one substance in the perfusate could be controlled for by a regression on the levels of another concurrently recovered inert substance. The experiments demonstrate that tissue site perfusion can provide useful access to brain extracellular fluid when suitable controls are incorporated for recovery variation and blood-brain barrier seepage.", "PMID": 434187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2037", "title": "Effects of vagotomy with and without pyloroplasty on weight and food intake in rats.", "content": "Bilateral truncal vagotomy performed in 13 rats reduced weight gain by 26% compared to controls, but also produced gastric distension. Addition of pyloroplasty was found to facilitate gastric drainage in vagotomized rats, and both procedures were then performed in 57 rats of both sexes and varying initial weights. When fed ad libitum, vagotomized animals maintained a weight 14-30% less than controls over periods of 30-300 days. When pair fed, normal rats and rats with vagotomy and pyloroplasty weighed the same. Various partial vagotomies had no effect on weight gain. It was concluded that vagotomy reduces weight gain in rats, that the reduction is the result of decreased food intake, and that the effect of vagotomy is probably not due to gastric distension.", "contents": "Effects of vagotomy with and without pyloroplasty on weight and food intake in rats. Bilateral truncal vagotomy performed in 13 rats reduced weight gain by 26% compared to controls, but also produced gastric distension. Addition of pyloroplasty was found to facilitate gastric drainage in vagotomized rats, and both procedures were then performed in 57 rats of both sexes and varying initial weights. When fed ad libitum, vagotomized animals maintained a weight 14-30% less than controls over periods of 30-300 days. When pair fed, normal rats and rats with vagotomy and pyloroplasty weighed the same. Various partial vagotomies had no effect on weight gain. It was concluded that vagotomy reduces weight gain in rats, that the reduction is the result of decreased food intake, and that the effect of vagotomy is probably not due to gastric distension.", "PMID": 434188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2038", "title": "Modes of thermal protection in polar bear cubs--at birth and on emergence from the den.", "content": "At birth in late December the polar bear is small (700 g), uninsulated, and helpless. It probably has a modest capacity for metabolic heat production and depends on the female and a snow den in which it is born for thermal protection. The microclimate of an artificial polar bear den was investigated at Point Barrow, AK, and the temperature therein found to stay around 0 degrees C provided a heat source (200 W) equivalent to an adult polar bear was introduced. When the bears desert the den in early April the cub has grown to about 10 kg and has a well-developed fur insulation, but almost no subcutaneous fat. The cub has a high resting metabolic rate (4.6 W.kg-1), which is supported by the fat polar bear milk. Its lower critical temperature is about -30 degrees C, and an ambient temperature of -45 degrees C results in only a 33% increase in metabolism. The cub can tolerate a wind chill of 2.3 kW.m2 without apparent stress of drop in rectal temperature. If the cub is immersed in ice water rectal temperature drops 11 degrees C in 30 min. It is concluded that the cub can tolerate extremely low temperatures in air due to fur insulation and high metabolic heat production, but is unable to cope with the chill of ice water for any prolonged period of time.", "contents": "Modes of thermal protection in polar bear cubs--at birth and on emergence from the den. At birth in late December the polar bear is small (700 g), uninsulated, and helpless. It probably has a modest capacity for metabolic heat production and depends on the female and a snow den in which it is born for thermal protection. The microclimate of an artificial polar bear den was investigated at Point Barrow, AK, and the temperature therein found to stay around 0 degrees C provided a heat source (200 W) equivalent to an adult polar bear was introduced. When the bears desert the den in early April the cub has grown to about 10 kg and has a well-developed fur insulation, but almost no subcutaneous fat. The cub has a high resting metabolic rate (4.6 W.kg-1), which is supported by the fat polar bear milk. Its lower critical temperature is about -30 degrees C, and an ambient temperature of -45 degrees C results in only a 33% increase in metabolism. The cub can tolerate a wind chill of 2.3 kW.m2 without apparent stress of drop in rectal temperature. If the cub is immersed in ice water rectal temperature drops 11 degrees C in 30 min. It is concluded that the cub can tolerate extremely low temperatures in air due to fur insulation and high metabolic heat production, but is unable to cope with the chill of ice water for any prolonged period of time.", "PMID": 434189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2039", "title": "Osmosensitivity of rat third ventricle and interactions with angiotensin.", "content": "Injections of hyperosmotic solutions (1- to 5-microliter injections of NaCl or sucrose solutions ranging in osmolarity from 0.34 to 0.90 osmol/l) into the anteroventral third ventricle (AV3V) of rats resulted in short latency drinking antidiuretic, and pressor responses. AV3V injections or infusions of combined angiotensin-hyperosmotic NaCl solution did not result in drinking greater than the sum of drinking to angiotensin and hyperosmotic NaCl separately administered. Differences in water versus saline drinking fluid preferences provided a behavioral dissociation of angiotensin and hyperosmotic sensitive neural mechanisms. Comparison of AV3V and lateral preoptic injection sites provided an additional separation since angiotensin was equally effective at both sites whereas osmotic stimulation was more effective at the AV3V site. AV3V lesions have previously been reported to abolish drinking, antidiuretic, and pressor responses to angiotensin and hyperosmotic stimulation. The data reported here provide additional evidence that angiotensin and hyperosmotic stimuli may both act on tissue surrounding AV3V but suggest that the neural substrates for these stimuli are not identical.", "contents": "Osmosensitivity of rat third ventricle and interactions with angiotensin. Injections of hyperosmotic solutions (1- to 5-microliter injections of NaCl or sucrose solutions ranging in osmolarity from 0.34 to 0.90 osmol/l) into the anteroventral third ventricle (AV3V) of rats resulted in short latency drinking antidiuretic, and pressor responses. AV3V injections or infusions of combined angiotensin-hyperosmotic NaCl solution did not result in drinking greater than the sum of drinking to angiotensin and hyperosmotic NaCl separately administered. Differences in water versus saline drinking fluid preferences provided a behavioral dissociation of angiotensin and hyperosmotic sensitive neural mechanisms. Comparison of AV3V and lateral preoptic injection sites provided an additional separation since angiotensin was equally effective at both sites whereas osmotic stimulation was more effective at the AV3V site. AV3V lesions have previously been reported to abolish drinking, antidiuretic, and pressor responses to angiotensin and hyperosmotic stimulation. The data reported here provide additional evidence that angiotensin and hyperosmotic stimuli may both act on tissue surrounding AV3V but suggest that the neural substrates for these stimuli are not identical.", "PMID": 434190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2040", "title": "A model of potassium ion efflux during exercise of skeletal muscle.", "content": "Potassium (K+) is a vasoactive agent and is released from muscle cells during exercise. A simple diffusion model does not predict the time course of K+ efflux during exercise, which decreases as the exercise progresses. We constructed a mathematical model using the concept of an active Na+-K+ ion pump to account for the decreased efflux during and uptake after exercise. Passive fluxes are calculated by the Nernst equation. Active fluxes are constrained to balance these passive fluxes at rest. The pump activity increases as either extracellular K+ or intracellular Na+ concentration increases. To test the model, the venous K+ efflux profile was simulated for direct stimulation (4/s) of the anterior calf mus cles of dogs. The model simulated the K+ release during the stimulation period and [K+] undershoot after the stimulation. The active Na+-K+ ATPase transport concept used in the model was further tested by observing K+ efflux after administration of ouabain. Ouabain infusion decreased K+ uptake during exercise slightly and abolished [K+] undershoot after the stimulation. These experimental data were matched by the model only if a discontinuous effect of ouabain is assumed. This suggests that ouabain may more completely block the sensitivity of the pump to intracellular [Na+] than to extracellular [K+].", "contents": "A model of potassium ion efflux during exercise of skeletal muscle. Potassium (K+) is a vasoactive agent and is released from muscle cells during exercise. A simple diffusion model does not predict the time course of K+ efflux during exercise, which decreases as the exercise progresses. We constructed a mathematical model using the concept of an active Na+-K+ ion pump to account for the decreased efflux during and uptake after exercise. Passive fluxes are calculated by the Nernst equation. Active fluxes are constrained to balance these passive fluxes at rest. The pump activity increases as either extracellular K+ or intracellular Na+ concentration increases. To test the model, the venous K+ efflux profile was simulated for direct stimulation (4/s) of the anterior calf mus cles of dogs. The model simulated the K+ release during the stimulation period and [K+] undershoot after the stimulation. The active Na+-K+ ATPase transport concept used in the model was further tested by observing K+ efflux after administration of ouabain. Ouabain infusion decreased K+ uptake during exercise slightly and abolished [K+] undershoot after the stimulation. These experimental data were matched by the model only if a discontinuous effect of ouabain is assumed. This suggests that ouabain may more completely block the sensitivity of the pump to intracellular [Na+] than to extracellular [K+].", "PMID": 434191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2041", "title": "Influence of thermal acclimation on membrane lipid composition of rainbow trout liver.", "content": "Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) acclimated to 5 degrees C possessed larger livers and less neutral lipid per gram of liver than 20 degrees C-acclimated animals; quantities of liver glycolipid, phospholipid, and cholesterol did not vary significantly with acclimation temperature. The relative proportions of phosphatidylethanolamine increased significantly following cold exposure, whereas the quantities of sphingomyelin and cardiolipin declined. For all phosphatides examined (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, lysolecithin, cardiolipin, sphingomyelin) cold acclimation resulted in 1) an increase in the quantity of polyunsaturated fatty acids, 2) a reduction in the level of saturated fatty acids, and 3) little change in the total content of monoenes and dienes. The increased content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in choline and ethanolamine phosphatides following cold acclimation was confined to the 2-position and occurred at the expense of monoenes and dienes. The relative proportions of n - 3 fatty acids, and less frequently n - 6 fatty acids, increased in phosphatides of cold-acclimated trout, whereas the relative proportions of n - 9 fatty acids declined. These data suggest a preferential incorporation of fatty acids belonging to the linolenic acid family at reduced temperatures. Temperature-induced changes in the chemical composition of trout liver phospholipids counteracted the effects of acute temperature change on nonelectrolyte permeability of isolated liposomes.", "contents": "Influence of thermal acclimation on membrane lipid composition of rainbow trout liver. Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) acclimated to 5 degrees C possessed larger livers and less neutral lipid per gram of liver than 20 degrees C-acclimated animals; quantities of liver glycolipid, phospholipid, and cholesterol did not vary significantly with acclimation temperature. The relative proportions of phosphatidylethanolamine increased significantly following cold exposure, whereas the quantities of sphingomyelin and cardiolipin declined. For all phosphatides examined (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, lysolecithin, cardiolipin, sphingomyelin) cold acclimation resulted in 1) an increase in the quantity of polyunsaturated fatty acids, 2) a reduction in the level of saturated fatty acids, and 3) little change in the total content of monoenes and dienes. The increased content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in choline and ethanolamine phosphatides following cold acclimation was confined to the 2-position and occurred at the expense of monoenes and dienes. The relative proportions of n - 3 fatty acids, and less frequently n - 6 fatty acids, increased in phosphatides of cold-acclimated trout, whereas the relative proportions of n - 9 fatty acids declined. These data suggest a preferential incorporation of fatty acids belonging to the linolenic acid family at reduced temperatures. Temperature-induced changes in the chemical composition of trout liver phospholipids counteracted the effects of acute temperature change on nonelectrolyte permeability of isolated liposomes.", "PMID": 434192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2042", "title": "Intraventricular 2-deoxyglucose, glucose, insulin, and free fatty acid mobilization.", "content": "The possibility of eliciting changes in the activity of lipomobilizing centers in the rat central nervous system was investigated by injecting glucose or substances that affect glucose metabolism directly into the cerebrospinal fluid of conscious, unrestrained rats. Intracerebroventricular administration of minute amounts of 2-deoxyglucose to fed rats induced a rapid increase in the concentration of plasma free fatty acids (FFA) without affecting plasma insulin levels. Furthermore, small amounts of either glucose or insulin injected intraventricularly reduced the increased plasma FFA levels of normal fasted rats without affecting the glycemia or plasma insulin levels in these animals. In diabetic rats, the increased levels of plasma FFA were not affected by intraventricular administration of glucose, but clearly decreased after intraventricular insulin. The results suggest that the lipomobilizing centers are insulin sensitive and that their activity is modulated by the rate of glucose uptake, rather than by external hexose concentration. The data are also consistent with our previous hypothesis of a direct control of the sympathetic tonus of adipose tissue by these centers.", "contents": "Intraventricular 2-deoxyglucose, glucose, insulin, and free fatty acid mobilization. The possibility of eliciting changes in the activity of lipomobilizing centers in the rat central nervous system was investigated by injecting glucose or substances that affect glucose metabolism directly into the cerebrospinal fluid of conscious, unrestrained rats. Intracerebroventricular administration of minute amounts of 2-deoxyglucose to fed rats induced a rapid increase in the concentration of plasma free fatty acids (FFA) without affecting plasma insulin levels. Furthermore, small amounts of either glucose or insulin injected intraventricularly reduced the increased plasma FFA levels of normal fasted rats without affecting the glycemia or plasma insulin levels in these animals. In diabetic rats, the increased levels of plasma FFA were not affected by intraventricular administration of glucose, but clearly decreased after intraventricular insulin. The results suggest that the lipomobilizing centers are insulin sensitive and that their activity is modulated by the rate of glucose uptake, rather than by external hexose concentration. The data are also consistent with our previous hypothesis of a direct control of the sympathetic tonus of adipose tissue by these centers.", "PMID": 434193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2043", "title": "Glucose intolerance following chronic metabolic acidosis in man.", "content": "The effect of chronic metabolic acidosis (0.1 g/(kg . day) X 3 days) on carbohydrate metabolism was examined with the glucose-clamp technique in 16 healthy volunteers. Hyperglycemic clamp. Plasma glucose concentration is acutely raised and maintained 125 mg/dl above the basal level. Because the glucose concentration is held constant, the glucose infusion rate is an index of glucose metabolism (M). Following NH4Cl, M decreased from 8.95 +/- 1.12 to 7.35 +/- 0.76 (P less than 0.05) despite an increased plasma insulin concentration (I) 23 +/- 9%, P less than 0.05). Consequently the M/I ratio, an index of tissue sensitivity to insulin, decreased by 32 +/- 5% (P less than 0.005). Euglycemic clamp. Plasma insulin concentration is acutely raised and maintained 101 +/- 3 microU/ml above basal and plasma glucose is held constant at the fasting level by a variable glucose infusion (M). Following NH4Cl both M and M/I decreased by 15 +/- 4% (P = 0.005) and 15 +/- 5% (P = 0.01), respectively. Metabolic acidosis had no effect on basal [3-3H]glucose production or the percent of decline (91 +/- 4%) following hyperinsulinemia. Both hyperglycemic and euglycemic clamp studies indicate that impaired glucose metabolism following metabolic acidosis results from impaired tissue sensitivity to insulin.", "contents": "Glucose intolerance following chronic metabolic acidosis in man. The effect of chronic metabolic acidosis (0.1 g/(kg . day) X 3 days) on carbohydrate metabolism was examined with the glucose-clamp technique in 16 healthy volunteers. Hyperglycemic clamp. Plasma glucose concentration is acutely raised and maintained 125 mg/dl above the basal level. Because the glucose concentration is held constant, the glucose infusion rate is an index of glucose metabolism (M). Following NH4Cl, M decreased from 8.95 +/- 1.12 to 7.35 +/- 0.76 (P less than 0.05) despite an increased plasma insulin concentration (I) 23 +/- 9%, P less than 0.05). Consequently the M/I ratio, an index of tissue sensitivity to insulin, decreased by 32 +/- 5% (P less than 0.005). Euglycemic clamp. Plasma insulin concentration is acutely raised and maintained 101 +/- 3 microU/ml above basal and plasma glucose is held constant at the fasting level by a variable glucose infusion (M). Following NH4Cl both M and M/I decreased by 15 +/- 4% (P = 0.005) and 15 +/- 5% (P = 0.01), respectively. Metabolic acidosis had no effect on basal [3-3H]glucose production or the percent of decline (91 +/- 4%) following hyperinsulinemia. Both hyperglycemic and euglycemic clamp studies indicate that impaired glucose metabolism following metabolic acidosis results from impaired tissue sensitivity to insulin.", "PMID": 434194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2044", "title": "Progesterone secretion and fetal development during prolonged starvation in the pig.", "content": "Roles of ovarian progesterone secretion and maternal nutrition in fetal development were investigated in a species that normally experiences considerable embryonic and fetal mortality. Pregnancies were maintained in 81% of Yorkshire pigs during prolonged starvation (e.g., 40 days; 0 kcal/day, water only) in either the middle third (days 30-70) or last third (days 70-110) of gestation compared with 100% in full-fed controls (7,028 kcal/day). In spite of severe maternal deprivation, fetal survival rates averaged 65% in starved dams and 63% in controls; mean number of living fetuses was 9.9 in starved and 9.6 in control dams. Fetal growth was reduced by maternal starvation during the middle third, but not the last third of pregnancy. Placental insufficiency was the primary cause of reduced fetal growth and resulted in abortion in a few of the dams. Progesterone in peripheral serum of dams starved either during middle or late pregnancy was maintained at levels similar (P greater than 0.05) to those in controls. Abortion occurred in starved dams only when serum progesterone concentrations dropped to less than 10 ng/ml within 3 days before loss of conceptuses.", "contents": "Progesterone secretion and fetal development during prolonged starvation in the pig. Roles of ovarian progesterone secretion and maternal nutrition in fetal development were investigated in a species that normally experiences considerable embryonic and fetal mortality. Pregnancies were maintained in 81% of Yorkshire pigs during prolonged starvation (e.g., 40 days; 0 kcal/day, water only) in either the middle third (days 30-70) or last third (days 70-110) of gestation compared with 100% in full-fed controls (7,028 kcal/day). In spite of severe maternal deprivation, fetal survival rates averaged 65% in starved dams and 63% in controls; mean number of living fetuses was 9.9 in starved and 9.6 in control dams. Fetal growth was reduced by maternal starvation during the middle third, but not the last third of pregnancy. Placental insufficiency was the primary cause of reduced fetal growth and resulted in abortion in a few of the dams. Progesterone in peripheral serum of dams starved either during middle or late pregnancy was maintained at levels similar (P greater than 0.05) to those in controls. Abortion occurred in starved dams only when serum progesterone concentrations dropped to less than 10 ng/ml within 3 days before loss of conceptuses.", "PMID": 434195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2045", "title": "Effect of estrogen on rate of 59Fe uptake by hemopoietic tissue in Japanese quail.", "content": "Injection of 2 mg estradiol valerate into male Japanese quail caused the rate of 59Fe uptake by the skeleton to drop 70% within 48 h. This phenomenon was due to an increase in the iron-binding capacity of the plasma induced by estrogen that caused a substantial decline in the availability of the label for hematopoiesis and to partial inhibition of hematopoiesis by estrogen directly. The changes in 59Fe uptake induced by estrogen were accompanied by a significant drop in circulating red blood cell concentration and a substantial rise in plasma volume. These altered physiological conditions were similar to those normally found in the laying hen.", "contents": "Effect of estrogen on rate of 59Fe uptake by hemopoietic tissue in Japanese quail. Injection of 2 mg estradiol valerate into male Japanese quail caused the rate of 59Fe uptake by the skeleton to drop 70% within 48 h. This phenomenon was due to an increase in the iron-binding capacity of the plasma induced by estrogen that caused a substantial decline in the availability of the label for hematopoiesis and to partial inhibition of hematopoiesis by estrogen directly. The changes in 59Fe uptake induced by estrogen were accompanied by a significant drop in circulating red blood cell concentration and a substantial rise in plasma volume. These altered physiological conditions were similar to those normally found in the laying hen.", "PMID": 434196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2046", "title": "Extrasplanchnic effect of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) on plasma estrogen levels in the dog.", "content": "The effect of the drug sulfobromophthalein (BSP) on plasma estrogens in the dog were studied during intravenous infusions of 3H-labeled estrogens. During [3H]estrone infusion, BSP administration caused a marked increase in arterial plasma levels of the radioactive conjugated estrogens, estrone glucosiduronate, estradiol-17 beta glucosiduronate(s), and estrone sulfate. Levels of the unconjugated estrogens, estrone and estradiol-17 beta, were substantially unaltered. Possible mechanisms were investigated. Splanchnic extraction of the conjugates did not change significantly during BSP administration, and renal excretion rose promptly in proportion to the plasma levels, thus virtually excluding decreased biliary or renal excretion. There was no net discharge of estrogen glucosiduronate radioactivity from adipose tissue or muscle following BSP. During [3H]estrone glucosiduronate infusion, BSP again caused an increase in plasma estrone glucosiduronate, thus excluding increased formation (of this conjugate, at least). BSP caused decreased extraction of estrone glucosiduronate by the hindlimb, indicating that decreased metabolism was the probable cause of the elevated plasma levels. BSP also caused decreased formation of unconjugated estrogens by the lungs, indicating that the decreased metabolism includes decreased hydrolysis of estrogen glucosiduronates.", "contents": "Extrasplanchnic effect of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) on plasma estrogen levels in the dog. The effect of the drug sulfobromophthalein (BSP) on plasma estrogens in the dog were studied during intravenous infusions of 3H-labeled estrogens. During [3H]estrone infusion, BSP administration caused a marked increase in arterial plasma levels of the radioactive conjugated estrogens, estrone glucosiduronate, estradiol-17 beta glucosiduronate(s), and estrone sulfate. Levels of the unconjugated estrogens, estrone and estradiol-17 beta, were substantially unaltered. Possible mechanisms were investigated. Splanchnic extraction of the conjugates did not change significantly during BSP administration, and renal excretion rose promptly in proportion to the plasma levels, thus virtually excluding decreased biliary or renal excretion. There was no net discharge of estrogen glucosiduronate radioactivity from adipose tissue or muscle following BSP. During [3H]estrone glucosiduronate infusion, BSP again caused an increase in plasma estrone glucosiduronate, thus excluding increased formation (of this conjugate, at least). BSP caused decreased extraction of estrone glucosiduronate by the hindlimb, indicating that decreased metabolism was the probable cause of the elevated plasma levels. BSP also caused decreased formation of unconjugated estrogens by the lungs, indicating that the decreased metabolism includes decreased hydrolysis of estrogen glucosiduronates.", "PMID": 434197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2047", "title": "Antihypertensive effect of progesterone in rats with mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension.", "content": "Uninephrectomized, saline-fed male Sprague-Dawley rats were given DOCA 5 mg per week alone or together with progesterone 20 mg per week for 6 weeks (phase I). Subsequently, the doses of DOCA and progesterone were doubled and the rats were studied for an additional 6 wk (phase II). Progesterone prevented DOCA-induced hypertension during phase I. Phase II blood pressures were higher in DOCA-progesterone-treated animals than in controls, but remained lower than in animals treated with DOCA alone. At the end of phase II the animals were killed, and blood samples and skeletal muscle samples were taken for analysis of electrolyte content. DOCA-treated animals were found to have an increased rate of potassium excretion, an increase in muscle sodium concentration, and a decrease in muscle potassium concentration compared to the controls. Progesterone treatment significantly blunted the DOCA-induced changes in muscle electrolyte concentrations and increased the rate of sodium excretion. No hypotensive effect was observed when progesterone in doses similar to those of phase I was administered to spontaneously hypertensive rats. Thus, in experimental mineralocorticoid hypertension, the hypotensive effect of progesterone appears to correlate closely with its mineralocorticoid antagonistic properties.", "contents": "Antihypertensive effect of progesterone in rats with mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension. Uninephrectomized, saline-fed male Sprague-Dawley rats were given DOCA 5 mg per week alone or together with progesterone 20 mg per week for 6 weeks (phase I). Subsequently, the doses of DOCA and progesterone were doubled and the rats were studied for an additional 6 wk (phase II). Progesterone prevented DOCA-induced hypertension during phase I. Phase II blood pressures were higher in DOCA-progesterone-treated animals than in controls, but remained lower than in animals treated with DOCA alone. At the end of phase II the animals were killed, and blood samples and skeletal muscle samples were taken for analysis of electrolyte content. DOCA-treated animals were found to have an increased rate of potassium excretion, an increase in muscle sodium concentration, and a decrease in muscle potassium concentration compared to the controls. Progesterone treatment significantly blunted the DOCA-induced changes in muscle electrolyte concentrations and increased the rate of sodium excretion. No hypotensive effect was observed when progesterone in doses similar to those of phase I was administered to spontaneously hypertensive rats. Thus, in experimental mineralocorticoid hypertension, the hypotensive effect of progesterone appears to correlate closely with its mineralocorticoid antagonistic properties.", "PMID": 434199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2048", "title": "Effect of bethanechol, gastrin I, or cholecystokinin on myoelectrical activity.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of bethanechol, gastrin I, or the octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK-OP) on the smooth muscle of the isolated cat colon. Myoelectrical activity was recorded with monopolar glass-pore electrodes. Slow-wave frequency was 5.9 +/- 0.2 cycles/min during the basal period. Slow waves were generally coupled during the control period and the apparent propagation velocity was predominantly aborad at a velocity of 3.8 +/- 0.4 mm/s. Spike activity was superimposed on 11.9 +/- 1.5% of the slow waves during the control period. Bethanechol stimulated a dose-dependent increase in colonic spike activity, with a threshold concentration of 10(-7) M. Bethanechol did not alter the congruence of the colonic slow-wave frequency at any concentration. Gastrin I or CCK-OP increased colonic spike activity. The threshold concentrations for gastrin I and CCK-OP were 2 X 10(-11) M and 4 x 10(-11) M, respectively. Unlike bethanechol, gastrin I (2 X 10(-9) M - 2 X 10(-8) M) and CCK-OP (4 X 10(-9) - 4 X 10(-8) M) altered slow-wave frequency and decreased slow-wave congruence. These studies suggest that 1) bethanechol, gastrin I, or CCK-OP increases colonic spike activity, and 2) only gastrin I or CCK-OP alters the slow-wave frequency of colonic muscle. Thus neurohumoral substances may act independently on colonic spike activity and colonic slow-wave frequency.", "contents": "Effect of bethanechol, gastrin I, or cholecystokinin on myoelectrical activity. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of bethanechol, gastrin I, or the octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK-OP) on the smooth muscle of the isolated cat colon. Myoelectrical activity was recorded with monopolar glass-pore electrodes. Slow-wave frequency was 5.9 +/- 0.2 cycles/min during the basal period. Slow waves were generally coupled during the control period and the apparent propagation velocity was predominantly aborad at a velocity of 3.8 +/- 0.4 mm/s. Spike activity was superimposed on 11.9 +/- 1.5% of the slow waves during the control period. Bethanechol stimulated a dose-dependent increase in colonic spike activity, with a threshold concentration of 10(-7) M. Bethanechol did not alter the congruence of the colonic slow-wave frequency at any concentration. Gastrin I or CCK-OP increased colonic spike activity. The threshold concentrations for gastrin I and CCK-OP were 2 X 10(-11) M and 4 x 10(-11) M, respectively. Unlike bethanechol, gastrin I (2 X 10(-9) M - 2 X 10(-8) M) and CCK-OP (4 X 10(-9) - 4 X 10(-8) M) altered slow-wave frequency and decreased slow-wave congruence. These studies suggest that 1) bethanechol, gastrin I, or CCK-OP increases colonic spike activity, and 2) only gastrin I or CCK-OP alters the slow-wave frequency of colonic muscle. Thus neurohumoral substances may act independently on colonic spike activity and colonic slow-wave frequency.", "PMID": 434201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2049", "title": "Peristalsis in distal colon of the rabbit: an analysis of mechanical events.", "content": "The mechanical behavior of isolated segments of rabbit distal colon was studied by experimental and theoretical techniques. The isometric isovolumic preparation was adopted to obtain records of endoluminal pressure, force, and wall morphology during 59 spontaneous and 53 electrostimulated peristaltic contractions. On strips of longitudinal and circular muscle, excised from the same segments, the tension-velocity and tension-length relationships were also measured. To describe mechanical events occurring during propulsion, a mathematical model was developed that incorporates the measured characteristics of the muscle. In response to given waveforms for the activation of the two muscular coats, the solution of model equations provides the time courses of pressure, force, and wall morphology. A number of parameters measured in the experimental contractions (e.g., pressure and force peaks, time lag between the stimulus and the peaks, velocity of progression of the peristaltic wave) were compared with model outputs, and a similar pattern of response was found. Therefore the model made it possible to relate segment and strip experimental data and to investigate the temporal and quantitative relationship between the contraction of longitudinal and circular layer.", "contents": "Peristalsis in distal colon of the rabbit: an analysis of mechanical events. The mechanical behavior of isolated segments of rabbit distal colon was studied by experimental and theoretical techniques. The isometric isovolumic preparation was adopted to obtain records of endoluminal pressure, force, and wall morphology during 59 spontaneous and 53 electrostimulated peristaltic contractions. On strips of longitudinal and circular muscle, excised from the same segments, the tension-velocity and tension-length relationships were also measured. To describe mechanical events occurring during propulsion, a mathematical model was developed that incorporates the measured characteristics of the muscle. In response to given waveforms for the activation of the two muscular coats, the solution of model equations provides the time courses of pressure, force, and wall morphology. A number of parameters measured in the experimental contractions (e.g., pressure and force peaks, time lag between the stimulus and the peaks, velocity of progression of the peristaltic wave) were compared with model outputs, and a similar pattern of response was found. Therefore the model made it possible to relate segment and strip experimental data and to investigate the temporal and quantitative relationship between the contraction of longitudinal and circular layer.", "PMID": 434202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2050", "title": "Anomalous calcium secretion in rat ileum: role of paracellular pathway.", "content": "The mechanism of apparent calcium secretion by unstripped rat ileum in vitro has been investigated using mannitol and polyethylene glycol (mol wt 900) as markers for extracellular transepithelial flux. In the absence of electrochemical gradients between the mucosal and serosal bathing media in a modified Ussing chamber, net fluxes of both mannitol and polyethylene glycol were observed from serosa to mucosa in the presence of 11 mM D-glucose. Mucosal-to-serosal calcium flux reveals a significant cellular component, but serosal-to-mucosal calcium permeability is a linear function of mannitol permeability, suggesting an exclusively extracellular route. For the mucosal-to-serosal fluxes, inhibition of calcium flux by 1 mM N-ethylmaleimide results in a calcium-to-mannitol permeability ratio indistinguishable from that measured for serosal-to-mucosal flux. This evidence suggests that the apparent calcium secretion observed at 10 mM medium calcium is not the result of a cellular secretory mechanism. It is proposed that a hydrostatic driving force generated internal to the tissue but external to the cells results in net calcium secretion at calcium conentrations that saturate the cellular absorptive mechanism.", "contents": "Anomalous calcium secretion in rat ileum: role of paracellular pathway. The mechanism of apparent calcium secretion by unstripped rat ileum in vitro has been investigated using mannitol and polyethylene glycol (mol wt 900) as markers for extracellular transepithelial flux. In the absence of electrochemical gradients between the mucosal and serosal bathing media in a modified Ussing chamber, net fluxes of both mannitol and polyethylene glycol were observed from serosa to mucosa in the presence of 11 mM D-glucose. Mucosal-to-serosal calcium flux reveals a significant cellular component, but serosal-to-mucosal calcium permeability is a linear function of mannitol permeability, suggesting an exclusively extracellular route. For the mucosal-to-serosal fluxes, inhibition of calcium flux by 1 mM N-ethylmaleimide results in a calcium-to-mannitol permeability ratio indistinguishable from that measured for serosal-to-mucosal flux. This evidence suggests that the apparent calcium secretion observed at 10 mM medium calcium is not the result of a cellular secretory mechanism. It is proposed that a hydrostatic driving force generated internal to the tissue but external to the cells results in net calcium secretion at calcium conentrations that saturate the cellular absorptive mechanism.", "PMID": 434203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2051", "title": "Role of pancreatic polypeptide in canine gastric acid secretion.", "content": "The interrelationships of canine pancreatic polypeptide (cPP) and gastric acid secretion were studied in dogs following infusion of histamine or pentagastrin. Pentagastrin stimulated gastric acid release 30-fold and simultaneously increased plasma cPP secretion by an average of 120 pg/ml. Although histamine stimulated gastric acid secretion to a comparable degree, it had no effect on plasma cPP levels. Three mechanisms of inhibition of acid secretion (cimetidine, duodenal acidification, and somatostatin) had different effects on pancreatic polypeptide (PP) levels. With a background infusion of pentagastrin, cimetidine did not affect cPP levels. In contrast, somatostatin dramatically inhibited both gastric fistula output and cPP release. Finally, a 10-min duodenal irrigation with 0.1 N HCl resulted in a brief spike in cPP levels (from 266 +/- 12 to 347 +/- 31 pg/ml) at the time of greatest inhibition of histamine-stimulated acid secretion. Infusions of histamine + porcine pancreatic polypeptide (pPP) at concentrations of 1.0 and 2.25 microgram/kg per h and of pentagastrin + pPP at 2.25 microgram/kg per h closely simulated postprandial cPP levels (mean 1306 +/- 18 pg/ml at 30 min) but produced no change in gastric fistula output. These studies demonstrated that PP levels and rates of gastric acid secretion are unrelated and that at physiologic concentrations PP plays no significant role in the regulation of gastric acid secretion.", "contents": "Role of pancreatic polypeptide in canine gastric acid secretion. The interrelationships of canine pancreatic polypeptide (cPP) and gastric acid secretion were studied in dogs following infusion of histamine or pentagastrin. Pentagastrin stimulated gastric acid release 30-fold and simultaneously increased plasma cPP secretion by an average of 120 pg/ml. Although histamine stimulated gastric acid secretion to a comparable degree, it had no effect on plasma cPP levels. Three mechanisms of inhibition of acid secretion (cimetidine, duodenal acidification, and somatostatin) had different effects on pancreatic polypeptide (PP) levels. With a background infusion of pentagastrin, cimetidine did not affect cPP levels. In contrast, somatostatin dramatically inhibited both gastric fistula output and cPP release. Finally, a 10-min duodenal irrigation with 0.1 N HCl resulted in a brief spike in cPP levels (from 266 +/- 12 to 347 +/- 31 pg/ml) at the time of greatest inhibition of histamine-stimulated acid secretion. Infusions of histamine + porcine pancreatic polypeptide (pPP) at concentrations of 1.0 and 2.25 microgram/kg per h and of pentagastrin + pPP at 2.25 microgram/kg per h closely simulated postprandial cPP levels (mean 1306 +/- 18 pg/ml at 30 min) but produced no change in gastric fistula output. These studies demonstrated that PP levels and rates of gastric acid secretion are unrelated and that at physiologic concentrations PP plays no significant role in the regulation of gastric acid secretion.", "PMID": 434204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2052", "title": "Effect of adrenal arterial infusion of P-113 on aldosterone secretion in Na-deficient sheep.", "content": "To examine the role of the renin-angiotensin system in aldosterone regulation, P-113 ([Sar1,Ala8]angiotensin II) was infused into the arterial blood supply of the transplanted adrenal gland in conscious sheep. Effects on the aldosterone response to infused angiotensin II and III in sodium-replete sheep were compared with effects of P-113 on aldosterone secretion in sodium deficiency. P-113 infusion up to 1,000 microgram/h for 1-2 h did not consistently alter aldosterone secretion in sodium-deficient sheep. However, in sodium-replete sheep P-113 infusion for 20 min at 10 microgram/h or more abolished aldosterone responses to high blood levels of angiotensin II and III produced by systemic intravenous or adrenal intra-arterial infusion. P-113 infusions alone had minor agonist activity on aldosterone secretion in sodium-replete sheep. These results indicate that the increased secretion of aldosterone in Na-depleted sheep is not simply and commensurately determined by increase of angiotensin II and III concentration in the arterial blood perfusing the adrenal gland.", "contents": "Effect of adrenal arterial infusion of P-113 on aldosterone secretion in Na-deficient sheep. To examine the role of the renin-angiotensin system in aldosterone regulation, P-113 ([Sar1,Ala8]angiotensin II) was infused into the arterial blood supply of the transplanted adrenal gland in conscious sheep. Effects on the aldosterone response to infused angiotensin II and III in sodium-replete sheep were compared with effects of P-113 on aldosterone secretion in sodium deficiency. P-113 infusion up to 1,000 microgram/h for 1-2 h did not consistently alter aldosterone secretion in sodium-deficient sheep. However, in sodium-replete sheep P-113 infusion for 20 min at 10 microgram/h or more abolished aldosterone responses to high blood levels of angiotensin II and III produced by systemic intravenous or adrenal intra-arterial infusion. P-113 infusions alone had minor agonist activity on aldosterone secretion in sodium-replete sheep. These results indicate that the increased secretion of aldosterone in Na-depleted sheep is not simply and commensurately determined by increase of angiotensin II and III concentration in the arterial blood perfusing the adrenal gland.", "PMID": 434206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2053", "title": "Effects of parathyroid hormone on electrolyte transport in the hamster nephron.", "content": "Recollection micropuncture and clearance studies were carried out on thyroparathyroidectomized hamsters to clarify the localization of the effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on renal electrolyte transport. The clearance data confirmed that PTH inhibits phosphate and enhances calcium and magnesium reabsorption. These effects appeared to result from actions of the hormone in several parts of the nephron. In the proximal tubule PTH did not affect H2O reabsorption but inhibited phosphate reabsorption ((TF/P)PO4 increased from 0.46 +/- 0.04 to 0.57 +/- 0.03, P less than 0.02) and appeared to enhance calcium and magnesium reabsorption ((TF/UF)Ca decreased from 1.41 +/- 0.07 to 1.25 +/- 0.06, P less than 0.001, and (TF/UF)Mg from 1.66 +/- 0.10 to 1.51 +/- 0.08, P less than 0.05; in control animals (TF/UF)Ca increased from 1.51 +/- 0.10 to 1.65 +/- 0.11, P less than 0.01). PTH further inhibited phosphate reabsorption and enhanced calcium and magnesium reabsorption between the late proximal and early distal sites of puncture. Comparison of fractional deliveries of calcium and magnesium from the late distal tubule with their fractional excretions suggests an additional effect beyond the distal puncture site. The phosphaturic, but not the calcium- and magnesium-retaining, effects of PTH were abolished by a 16-h fast.", "contents": "Effects of parathyroid hormone on electrolyte transport in the hamster nephron. Recollection micropuncture and clearance studies were carried out on thyroparathyroidectomized hamsters to clarify the localization of the effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on renal electrolyte transport. The clearance data confirmed that PTH inhibits phosphate and enhances calcium and magnesium reabsorption. These effects appeared to result from actions of the hormone in several parts of the nephron. In the proximal tubule PTH did not affect H2O reabsorption but inhibited phosphate reabsorption ((TF/P)PO4 increased from 0.46 +/- 0.04 to 0.57 +/- 0.03, P less than 0.02) and appeared to enhance calcium and magnesium reabsorption ((TF/UF)Ca decreased from 1.41 +/- 0.07 to 1.25 +/- 0.06, P less than 0.001, and (TF/UF)Mg from 1.66 +/- 0.10 to 1.51 +/- 0.08, P less than 0.05; in control animals (TF/UF)Ca increased from 1.51 +/- 0.10 to 1.65 +/- 0.11, P less than 0.01). PTH further inhibited phosphate reabsorption and enhanced calcium and magnesium reabsorption between the late proximal and early distal sites of puncture. Comparison of fractional deliveries of calcium and magnesium from the late distal tubule with their fractional excretions suggests an additional effect beyond the distal puncture site. The phosphaturic, but not the calcium- and magnesium-retaining, effects of PTH were abolished by a 16-h fast.", "PMID": 434207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2054", "title": "Renal handling of calcium: influence of parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.", "content": "The influence of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on the renal Ca handling was studied in vitamin D-replete rats. The relation between plasma concentration ([Ca]P) and urinary Ca (UCaV/ml GF) was ascertained by clearance techniques over the [Ca]P range of 1.4-3.4 mM varied by infusion of Ca gluconate. Chronic thyroparathyroidectomy (TPTX) decreased the plasma Ca threshold from about 2.3 to 1.5 mM. Between [Ca]P 1.4 and 3.4 mM there was a linear increase in UCaV/ml GF corresponding to 35-50% of the increment in filtered load. In TPTX, PTH (2.5 IU/h i.v.) shifted the Ca threshold from 1.5 to 2.3 mM, without changing the slope of UCaV/ml GF on [Ca]P. The effect of TPTX on the renal Ca handling was not corrected by doses of 1,25(OH)2D3, which increased the intestinal Ca absorption of TPTX rats to normal level. In intact and TPTX rats disodium ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate (EHDP) given at doses which inhibit the production of 1,25(OH)2D3 did not change the tubular Ca handling. Furthermore, 1,25(OH)2D3 had no effect in EHDP-treated TPTX rats. Therefore, tubular Ca handling does not appear to be altered in response to chronic endogenous variation or physiologic supplementation of 1,25(OH)2D3 in vitamin D-replete rats. This is in contrast to the marked alteration observed after TPTX or PTH administration.", "contents": "Renal handling of calcium: influence of parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The influence of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on the renal Ca handling was studied in vitamin D-replete rats. The relation between plasma concentration ([Ca]P) and urinary Ca (UCaV/ml GF) was ascertained by clearance techniques over the [Ca]P range of 1.4-3.4 mM varied by infusion of Ca gluconate. Chronic thyroparathyroidectomy (TPTX) decreased the plasma Ca threshold from about 2.3 to 1.5 mM. Between [Ca]P 1.4 and 3.4 mM there was a linear increase in UCaV/ml GF corresponding to 35-50% of the increment in filtered load. In TPTX, PTH (2.5 IU/h i.v.) shifted the Ca threshold from 1.5 to 2.3 mM, without changing the slope of UCaV/ml GF on [Ca]P. The effect of TPTX on the renal Ca handling was not corrected by doses of 1,25(OH)2D3, which increased the intestinal Ca absorption of TPTX rats to normal level. In intact and TPTX rats disodium ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate (EHDP) given at doses which inhibit the production of 1,25(OH)2D3 did not change the tubular Ca handling. Furthermore, 1,25(OH)2D3 had no effect in EHDP-treated TPTX rats. Therefore, tubular Ca handling does not appear to be altered in response to chronic endogenous variation or physiologic supplementation of 1,25(OH)2D3 in vitamin D-replete rats. This is in contrast to the marked alteration observed after TPTX or PTH administration.", "PMID": 434208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2055", "title": "Voltage dependence of calcium transport in the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop.", "content": "Thick ascending limbs of Henle's loop were dissected from rabbit kidneys and perfused in vitro. Unidirectional transepithelial calcium fluxes from lumen-to-bath and bath-to-lumen were measured with 45Ca using different solutions that caused the transepithelial voltage to vary over a wide range. With lumen-positive voltages there was net calcium absorption from lumen to bath which varied directly with the voltage. With voltage near zero there was no measurable net flux. When the voltage was made negative, the direction of net calcium transport reversed (i.e., secretion from bath to lumen). The presence or absence of bicarbonate in the lumen did not affect the calcium fluxes. Calcium permeability, calculated from the dependence of net flux on voltage, was 7.7 x 10(-6) cm/s, which is approximately 25% of the sodium permeability previously determined in this segment. Analysis of the calcium flux ratios revealed interdependence of the bidirectional fluxes consistent with single-file diffusion but no evidence for active calcium transport. We conclude that there is an important component of passive net calcium transport driven by the voltage in this segment.", "contents": "Voltage dependence of calcium transport in the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop. Thick ascending limbs of Henle's loop were dissected from rabbit kidneys and perfused in vitro. Unidirectional transepithelial calcium fluxes from lumen-to-bath and bath-to-lumen were measured with 45Ca using different solutions that caused the transepithelial voltage to vary over a wide range. With lumen-positive voltages there was net calcium absorption from lumen to bath which varied directly with the voltage. With voltage near zero there was no measurable net flux. When the voltage was made negative, the direction of net calcium transport reversed (i.e., secretion from bath to lumen). The presence or absence of bicarbonate in the lumen did not affect the calcium fluxes. Calcium permeability, calculated from the dependence of net flux on voltage, was 7.7 x 10(-6) cm/s, which is approximately 25% of the sodium permeability previously determined in this segment. Analysis of the calcium flux ratios revealed interdependence of the bidirectional fluxes consistent with single-file diffusion but no evidence for active calcium transport. We conclude that there is an important component of passive net calcium transport driven by the voltage in this segment.", "PMID": 434209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2056", "title": "Effects of inhibitors in lumen on PAH and urate transport by isolated renal tubules.", "content": "Effects of the presence of unlabeled p-aminohippurate (PAH) or urate, probenecid, and phenol red in the lumen on labeled PAH or urate transport by isolated, perfused snake (Thamnophis spp.) proximal renal tubules were studied. Net secretion of labeled urate and luminal membrane permeability to urate were unaffected by the presence of unlabeled urate (up to 0.1 mM) or probenecid (up to 1.0 mM) in lumen only. The data are compatible with movement of urate from cells to lumen during urate secretion by a simple passive process. Net secretion of labeled PAH was rapidly and reversibly depressed to about 25-35% of control when unlabeled PAH (0.05 mM), phenol red (0.05 mM), or probenecid (0.1 mM) was added to the lumen only. During maximum depression of PAH transport, luminal membrane permeability to PAH was reduced by 60-70%. The data suggest that movement of PAH from cells to lumen down an electrochemical gradient during PAH secretion occurs by a readily inhibited, mediated process.", "contents": "Effects of inhibitors in lumen on PAH and urate transport by isolated renal tubules. Effects of the presence of unlabeled p-aminohippurate (PAH) or urate, probenecid, and phenol red in the lumen on labeled PAH or urate transport by isolated, perfused snake (Thamnophis spp.) proximal renal tubules were studied. Net secretion of labeled urate and luminal membrane permeability to urate were unaffected by the presence of unlabeled urate (up to 0.1 mM) or probenecid (up to 1.0 mM) in lumen only. The data are compatible with movement of urate from cells to lumen during urate secretion by a simple passive process. Net secretion of labeled PAH was rapidly and reversibly depressed to about 25-35% of control when unlabeled PAH (0.05 mM), phenol red (0.05 mM), or probenecid (0.1 mM) was added to the lumen only. During maximum depression of PAH transport, luminal membrane permeability to PAH was reduced by 60-70%. The data suggest that movement of PAH from cells to lumen down an electrochemical gradient during PAH secretion occurs by a readily inhibited, mediated process.", "PMID": 434212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2057", "title": "Effect of parathyroid hormone on bicarbonate absorption by proximal tubules in vitro.", "content": "The effect of parathyroid hormone on bicarbonate absorption was tested in rabbit proximal renal tubules perfused in vitro. In proximal straight tubules 0.05 U/ml of parathyroid hormone caused a large and reversible increase in the steady-state bicarbonate concentration in tubule fluid. Further, the rates of bicarbonate and fluid absorption (measured at faster flow rates) were inhibited approximately 50% by the hormone. We conclude that parathyroid hormone directly inhibits fluid and bicarbonate absorption by proximal straight tubules, causing an increase in the bicarbonate concentration in the tubule fluid, and we suggest that this action of the hormone contributes to the increase in renal bicarbonate excretion that is generally caused by the hormone. In proximal convoluted tubules, parathyroid hormone was previously demonstrated by other investigators to inhibit fluid and bicarbonate absorption approximately proportionally, so that there was little or no change in the bicarbonate concentration in tubule fluid. In agreement we found in the present studies that 0.05 U/ml of the hormone did not affect the steady-state bicarbonate concentration in proximal convoluted tubule fluid and that 5 U/ml caused only an equivocal increase in tubule fluid bicarbonate concentration.", "contents": "Effect of parathyroid hormone on bicarbonate absorption by proximal tubules in vitro. The effect of parathyroid hormone on bicarbonate absorption was tested in rabbit proximal renal tubules perfused in vitro. In proximal straight tubules 0.05 U/ml of parathyroid hormone caused a large and reversible increase in the steady-state bicarbonate concentration in tubule fluid. Further, the rates of bicarbonate and fluid absorption (measured at faster flow rates) were inhibited approximately 50% by the hormone. We conclude that parathyroid hormone directly inhibits fluid and bicarbonate absorption by proximal straight tubules, causing an increase in the bicarbonate concentration in the tubule fluid, and we suggest that this action of the hormone contributes to the increase in renal bicarbonate excretion that is generally caused by the hormone. In proximal convoluted tubules, parathyroid hormone was previously demonstrated by other investigators to inhibit fluid and bicarbonate absorption approximately proportionally, so that there was little or no change in the bicarbonate concentration in tubule fluid. In agreement we found in the present studies that 0.05 U/ml of the hormone did not affect the steady-state bicarbonate concentration in proximal convoluted tubule fluid and that 5 U/ml caused only an equivocal increase in tubule fluid bicarbonate concentration.", "PMID": 434213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2058", "title": "Dissociation of proximal tubular glucose and Na+ reabsorption by amphotericin B.", "content": "The effect of amphotericin B on glucose and Na+ transport was studied in the Necturus proximal tubule and in microvillus membrane vesicles isolated from the rabbit renal cortex. In the Necturus experiments, the rate constants for disappearance of radiolabeled glucose (kG) and mannitol (kM) from the tubular lumen were determined by stop-flow microperfusion. Saturability and Na+-dependence of glucose reabsorption was confirmed, since kG was reduced by raising intratubular glucose from 1 to 5 mM or by replacing intratubular Na+ with choline. Neither maneuver affected kM. Intratubular amphotericin B (10 microgram/ml), previously shown to stimulate active Na+ reabsorption in the Necturus proximal tubule, inhibited kG with no effect on kM. In the membrane vesicle preparation, amphotericin inhibited the uphill glucose uptake which results from imposing a NaCl gradient from outside to inside, but had no effect on glucose uptake in either the absence of Na+ or in the presence of Na+ when there was no Na+ gradient. Amphotericin B stimulated the uptake of Na+ by the vesicles. The observed dissociation of glucose and Na+ transport by amphotericin B is consistent with the concept that proximal tubular glucose reabsorption is energized by the luminal membrane Na+ gradient and is not directly linked to active Na+ transport per se.", "contents": "Dissociation of proximal tubular glucose and Na+ reabsorption by amphotericin B. The effect of amphotericin B on glucose and Na+ transport was studied in the Necturus proximal tubule and in microvillus membrane vesicles isolated from the rabbit renal cortex. In the Necturus experiments, the rate constants for disappearance of radiolabeled glucose (kG) and mannitol (kM) from the tubular lumen were determined by stop-flow microperfusion. Saturability and Na+-dependence of glucose reabsorption was confirmed, since kG was reduced by raising intratubular glucose from 1 to 5 mM or by replacing intratubular Na+ with choline. Neither maneuver affected kM. Intratubular amphotericin B (10 microgram/ml), previously shown to stimulate active Na+ reabsorption in the Necturus proximal tubule, inhibited kG with no effect on kM. In the membrane vesicle preparation, amphotericin inhibited the uphill glucose uptake which results from imposing a NaCl gradient from outside to inside, but had no effect on glucose uptake in either the absence of Na+ or in the presence of Na+ when there was no Na+ gradient. Amphotericin B stimulated the uptake of Na+ by the vesicles. The observed dissociation of glucose and Na+ transport by amphotericin B is consistent with the concept that proximal tubular glucose reabsorption is energized by the luminal membrane Na+ gradient and is not directly linked to active Na+ transport per se.", "PMID": 434214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2059", "title": "Amino acid content of rat renal cortex and the response to in vitro incubation.", "content": "The concentration of aspartic acid, threonine, serine, glycine, and alanine is significantly higher in newborn rat renal cortex than in the adult tissue, while phenylalanine and histidine are higher in the adult. When adult cortical slices are placed in bicarbonate buffer at room temperature for 20 min there is a 30-60% decrease in the levels of all amino acids except for lysine, which is slightly higher, and methionine and serine, which do not change. Under the same conditions, newborn cortical slices reveal a similar decrease in only glycine, tyrosine, histidine, and the branched-chain amino acids. On subsequent in vitro incubation of the cortical slices at 37 degrees C for 120 min the concentrations in adult tissue remain at the lower values observed on removal from buffer at room temperature except that glutamic acid, glycine, and lysine levels decrease further and serine increases to the concentration found in fresh tissue. Newborn tissue when incubated at 37 degrees C for 120 min shows amino acid concentrations comparable to unincubated fresh tissue for all except aspartic acid, glutamic acid, serine, and phenylalanine, which reach levels higher than unincubated tissue. The ability of newborn tissue to maintain amino acid pools may play a role in the enhanced transport of some amino acids resulting from preincubation at 37 degrees C (Reynolds et al. Science 184: 68-69, 1974; Reynolds and Segal, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 406: 513-525, 1976).", "contents": "Amino acid content of rat renal cortex and the response to in vitro incubation. The concentration of aspartic acid, threonine, serine, glycine, and alanine is significantly higher in newborn rat renal cortex than in the adult tissue, while phenylalanine and histidine are higher in the adult. When adult cortical slices are placed in bicarbonate buffer at room temperature for 20 min there is a 30-60% decrease in the levels of all amino acids except for lysine, which is slightly higher, and methionine and serine, which do not change. Under the same conditions, newborn cortical slices reveal a similar decrease in only glycine, tyrosine, histidine, and the branched-chain amino acids. On subsequent in vitro incubation of the cortical slices at 37 degrees C for 120 min the concentrations in adult tissue remain at the lower values observed on removal from buffer at room temperature except that glutamic acid, glycine, and lysine levels decrease further and serine increases to the concentration found in fresh tissue. Newborn tissue when incubated at 37 degrees C for 120 min shows amino acid concentrations comparable to unincubated fresh tissue for all except aspartic acid, glutamic acid, serine, and phenylalanine, which reach levels higher than unincubated tissue. The ability of newborn tissue to maintain amino acid pools may play a role in the enhanced transport of some amino acids resulting from preincubation at 37 degrees C (Reynolds et al. Science 184: 68-69, 1974; Reynolds and Segal, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 406: 513-525, 1976).", "PMID": 434215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2060", "title": "Use of mass spectrometer to measure CO2 and O2 fluxes in voltage-clamped epithelia.", "content": "A quadrupole mass spectrometer was coupled to an Ussing chamber in order to evaluate rates of oxidative metabolism in voltage-clamped epithelia. Well-defined mixing characteristics of the continuously perfused chamber allowed CO2 and O2 concentrations to be related to rates of CO2 efflux, JCO2, and oxygen influx, JO2. The use of a model tissue to simulate step changes in JCO2 validated the treatment, with response within a minute. Monitoring of metabolism was facilitated by use of a desk-top computer, which evaluated JCO2 at 6-s intervals. Concurrent measurements of electrical current and JCO2 were made in the toad urinary bladder in order to relate active sodium transport to metabolism; the use of amiloride to eliminate active transport and the associated metabolism then allowed evaluation of the rates of active Na transport (JNa) and suprabasal metabolism (JsbCO2), and their ratio JNa/JsbCO2. We report the ability to resolve a 5 pmol/s change in CO2 efflux or an 11 pmol/s change in O2 influx rates.", "contents": "Use of mass spectrometer to measure CO2 and O2 fluxes in voltage-clamped epithelia. A quadrupole mass spectrometer was coupled to an Ussing chamber in order to evaluate rates of oxidative metabolism in voltage-clamped epithelia. Well-defined mixing characteristics of the continuously perfused chamber allowed CO2 and O2 concentrations to be related to rates of CO2 efflux, JCO2, and oxygen influx, JO2. The use of a model tissue to simulate step changes in JCO2 validated the treatment, with response within a minute. Monitoring of metabolism was facilitated by use of a desk-top computer, which evaluated JCO2 at 6-s intervals. Concurrent measurements of electrical current and JCO2 were made in the toad urinary bladder in order to relate active sodium transport to metabolism; the use of amiloride to eliminate active transport and the associated metabolism then allowed evaluation of the rates of active Na transport (JNa) and suprabasal metabolism (JsbCO2), and their ratio JNa/JsbCO2. We report the ability to resolve a 5 pmol/s change in CO2 efflux or an 11 pmol/s change in O2 influx rates.", "PMID": 434216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2061", "title": "A new needle-type colloid osmometer for continuous determination of blood oncotic pressure.", "content": "For the purpose of facilitating measurement of colloid osmotic pressure of body fluids, a new needle-type colloid osmometer which uses a hollow fiber as a semipermeable membrane instead of a sheet ultrafilter was developed. The simple construction, easy production, and satisfactory performance of the osmometer are described in detail. Although hydrostatic pressure existing in the sample interfered a little with the accuracy of measurement, quickly interchangeable sensing probes brought great advantages in practice.", "contents": "A new needle-type colloid osmometer for continuous determination of blood oncotic pressure. For the purpose of facilitating measurement of colloid osmotic pressure of body fluids, a new needle-type colloid osmometer which uses a hollow fiber as a semipermeable membrane instead of a sheet ultrafilter was developed. The simple construction, easy production, and satisfactory performance of the osmometer are described in detail. Although hydrostatic pressure existing in the sample interfered a little with the accuracy of measurement, quickly interchangeable sensing probes brought great advantages in practice.", "PMID": 434217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2062", "title": "Microvascular responses to norepinephrine in renovascular and spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "Closed-circuit television microscopy was used to quantitate the responses of in vivo small arteries (50-140 micrometer diam) and veins (95-265 micrometer) to topically applied norepinephrine in the cremaster muscle of four groups of urethan-chloralose anesthetized rats. The rat groups were: Sprague-Dawley control (SDC), Sprague-Dawley renovascular hypertensive (RVH), Wistar-Kyoto control (WKY), and spontaneous hypertensive (SHR). The cremaster muscle with intact circulation and innervation was suspended by sutures in a 60-ml bath of bicarbonate-buffered Krebs solution. The vascular responses to the addition of progressively higher concentrations of norepinephrine to the bath were quantitated to obtain concentration-response curves. We found that the RVH (vs. SDC) had a decreased small-artery control diameter and decreased sensitivity to norepinephrine, whereas the SHR (vs. WKY) had tachycardia and decreased small-vein control diameter. Thus, the microvascular characteristics of these two types of hypertension appear to be quite different.", "contents": "Microvascular responses to norepinephrine in renovascular and spontaneously hypertensive rats. Closed-circuit television microscopy was used to quantitate the responses of in vivo small arteries (50-140 micrometer diam) and veins (95-265 micrometer) to topically applied norepinephrine in the cremaster muscle of four groups of urethan-chloralose anesthetized rats. The rat groups were: Sprague-Dawley control (SDC), Sprague-Dawley renovascular hypertensive (RVH), Wistar-Kyoto control (WKY), and spontaneous hypertensive (SHR). The cremaster muscle with intact circulation and innervation was suspended by sutures in a 60-ml bath of bicarbonate-buffered Krebs solution. The vascular responses to the addition of progressively higher concentrations of norepinephrine to the bath were quantitated to obtain concentration-response curves. We found that the RVH (vs. SDC) had a decreased small-artery control diameter and decreased sensitivity to norepinephrine, whereas the SHR (vs. WKY) had tachycardia and decreased small-vein control diameter. Thus, the microvascular characteristics of these two types of hypertension appear to be quite different.", "PMID": 434218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2063", "title": "Effects of sympathetic nerves on cerebral blood flow in awake dogs.", "content": "Although cerebral blood vessels are densely innervated by sympathetic nerve fibers, the functional significance of the nerves is controversial. Because previous studies have been primarily performed in anesthetized animals, it is possible that failure to observe prominent neural control of the cerebral circulation was secondary to anesthetic-induced depression of the sympathetic nervous system. Therefore, we studied sympathetic control of the cerebral circulation in 11 awake chronically instrumented dogs. Total and regional cerebral blood flow was measured with 15-micrometer microspheres at control blood pressure and during three levels of progressive hemorrhagic hypotension. Sympathetic nerves had only a small effect (11% decrease; P less than 0.05) on flow to the cerebrum during moderate hypotension (mean arterial pressure 49 +/- 2 mmHg). Also, during severe hypotension, there was a bilateral redistribution of brain blood flow that tended to preserve flow to the medulla. Although these studies suggest that sympathetic nerves have a definite constrictor effect on cerebral vessels, the data support the concept that the functional importance of sympathetic nerves to cerebral vessels is limited.", "contents": "Effects of sympathetic nerves on cerebral blood flow in awake dogs. Although cerebral blood vessels are densely innervated by sympathetic nerve fibers, the functional significance of the nerves is controversial. Because previous studies have been primarily performed in anesthetized animals, it is possible that failure to observe prominent neural control of the cerebral circulation was secondary to anesthetic-induced depression of the sympathetic nervous system. Therefore, we studied sympathetic control of the cerebral circulation in 11 awake chronically instrumented dogs. Total and regional cerebral blood flow was measured with 15-micrometer microspheres at control blood pressure and during three levels of progressive hemorrhagic hypotension. Sympathetic nerves had only a small effect (11% decrease; P less than 0.05) on flow to the cerebrum during moderate hypotension (mean arterial pressure 49 +/- 2 mmHg). Also, during severe hypotension, there was a bilateral redistribution of brain blood flow that tended to preserve flow to the medulla. Although these studies suggest that sympathetic nerves have a definite constrictor effect on cerebral vessels, the data support the concept that the functional importance of sympathetic nerves to cerebral vessels is limited.", "PMID": 434219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2064", "title": "Renal effects of left atrial distension in dogs with chronic congestive heart failure.", "content": "The renal response to left atrial balloon inflation in normal dogs was compared with that in dogs with chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). CHF was induced by the production of an aortocaval fistula below the level of the renal arteries. CHF dogs showed elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, enlarged hearts, a depression of myocardial contractility, pulmonary edema, ascites, and peripheral edema. They also showed significant decreases in urine flow, creatinine clearance, para-aminohippurate clearance, sodium and potassium excretion, fractional sodium excretion, osmolar clearance, arterial blood pressure, and heart rate. Balloon distension of the left atrium evoked a significant increase in urine flow and free-water clearance in the normal group. The reflex nature of this response was indicated by its blockade after bilateral cervical vagotomy. In contrast, the CHF group did not exhibit significant changes in urine flow or free-water clearance during balloon inflation. Plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) was significantly elevated in the CHF group; however, balloon distension reduced plasma ADH in both groups of dogs. Plasma renin activity was significantly elevated in the CHF dogs and was not changed by balloon distension in either group of dogs. It is concluded that animals with high-output CHF do not exhibit the atrial-diuretic reflex in spite of their ability to reduce ADH levels by atrial distension.", "contents": "Renal effects of left atrial distension in dogs with chronic congestive heart failure. The renal response to left atrial balloon inflation in normal dogs was compared with that in dogs with chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). CHF was induced by the production of an aortocaval fistula below the level of the renal arteries. CHF dogs showed elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, enlarged hearts, a depression of myocardial contractility, pulmonary edema, ascites, and peripheral edema. They also showed significant decreases in urine flow, creatinine clearance, para-aminohippurate clearance, sodium and potassium excretion, fractional sodium excretion, osmolar clearance, arterial blood pressure, and heart rate. Balloon distension of the left atrium evoked a significant increase in urine flow and free-water clearance in the normal group. The reflex nature of this response was indicated by its blockade after bilateral cervical vagotomy. In contrast, the CHF group did not exhibit significant changes in urine flow or free-water clearance during balloon inflation. Plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) was significantly elevated in the CHF group; however, balloon distension reduced plasma ADH in both groups of dogs. Plasma renin activity was significantly elevated in the CHF dogs and was not changed by balloon distension in either group of dogs. It is concluded that animals with high-output CHF do not exhibit the atrial-diuretic reflex in spite of their ability to reduce ADH levels by atrial distension.", "PMID": 434220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2065", "title": "Effect of tetrodotoxin on action potentials of the conducting system in the dog heart.", "content": "Tetrodotoxin (TTX) shortens Purkinje fiber action potential duration (APD) at concentrations (greater than or equal to 3.3 x 10(-8) M) lower than that at which the maximum rate of rise decreases (approximately 10(-6) M). The shortening effect of TTX occurs either at low or high driving rate and is much greater in Purkinje fibers than in bundle branch and muscle fibers. As a result, at a TTX concentration of 1.3 x 10(-6) M, the APD is no longer statistically different all along the conducting system, i.e., the gating mechanism described by Myerburg et al. (Circ. Res. 26: 361-378, 1970) is suppressed. It is concluded that this gating mechanism is attributable, at least in part, to the existence of a TTX-sensitive inward sodium current lengthening the plateau of the Purkinje fiber action potential. Our experimental results and reconstruction of Purkinje fiber action potentials suggest that this current, which is more sensitive to TTX than the normal rapid sodium current, flows through a background sodium conductance or/and a small proportion of sodium channels with no inactivation mechanism (or inactivation mechanism different from normal). The importance of this finding for the mechanism of action of antiarrhythmic drugs is pointed out.", "contents": "Effect of tetrodotoxin on action potentials of the conducting system in the dog heart. Tetrodotoxin (TTX) shortens Purkinje fiber action potential duration (APD) at concentrations (greater than or equal to 3.3 x 10(-8) M) lower than that at which the maximum rate of rise decreases (approximately 10(-6) M). The shortening effect of TTX occurs either at low or high driving rate and is much greater in Purkinje fibers than in bundle branch and muscle fibers. As a result, at a TTX concentration of 1.3 x 10(-6) M, the APD is no longer statistically different all along the conducting system, i.e., the gating mechanism described by Myerburg et al. (Circ. Res. 26: 361-378, 1970) is suppressed. It is concluded that this gating mechanism is attributable, at least in part, to the existence of a TTX-sensitive inward sodium current lengthening the plateau of the Purkinje fiber action potential. Our experimental results and reconstruction of Purkinje fiber action potentials suggest that this current, which is more sensitive to TTX than the normal rapid sodium current, flows through a background sodium conductance or/and a small proportion of sodium channels with no inactivation mechanism (or inactivation mechanism different from normal). The importance of this finding for the mechanism of action of antiarrhythmic drugs is pointed out.", "PMID": 434221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2066", "title": "Cardiac performance: independent effects of inotropy and preload at high heart rate.", "content": "Linear relationships between stroke volume (SV) and heart rate (HR) were observed during right atrial pacing in open-chest dogs at control inotropy, during intravenous isoproterenol infusion and during blood volume expansion by saline infusion at HR exceeding 150 beats/min. The slope of these relationships remained constant during variations in inotropy, but rose during blood volume expansion. Myocardial chord lengths in the anterior left ventricular wall were continuously recored by ultrasonic technique to estimate left ventricular volume. When heart rate was increased, end-diastolic volume decreased more rapidly after than before blood volume expansion, explaining the increased slope of the SV/HR relationship. The end-diastolic volume and the SV/HR relationship were not influenced by changes in inotropy. After blood volume expansion by 57 +/- 13%, control end-diastolic volume was reestablished by increasing heart rate 84 +/- 20 beats/min. At identical end-diastolic volume, SV was equal at different HR. Thus, the effects on SV of changes in preload and inotropy are separable during right atrial pacing, and SV is independent of HR at constant preload and adrenergic stimulation.", "contents": "Cardiac performance: independent effects of inotropy and preload at high heart rate. Linear relationships between stroke volume (SV) and heart rate (HR) were observed during right atrial pacing in open-chest dogs at control inotropy, during intravenous isoproterenol infusion and during blood volume expansion by saline infusion at HR exceeding 150 beats/min. The slope of these relationships remained constant during variations in inotropy, but rose during blood volume expansion. Myocardial chord lengths in the anterior left ventricular wall were continuously recored by ultrasonic technique to estimate left ventricular volume. When heart rate was increased, end-diastolic volume decreased more rapidly after than before blood volume expansion, explaining the increased slope of the SV/HR relationship. The end-diastolic volume and the SV/HR relationship were not influenced by changes in inotropy. After blood volume expansion by 57 +/- 13%, control end-diastolic volume was reestablished by increasing heart rate 84 +/- 20 beats/min. At identical end-diastolic volume, SV was equal at different HR. Thus, the effects on SV of changes in preload and inotropy are separable during right atrial pacing, and SV is independent of HR at constant preload and adrenergic stimulation.", "PMID": 434222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2067", "title": "Lack of fibrin formation in exercise-induced activation of coagulation.", "content": "Strenuous physical exercise leads to a significant shortening of blood clotting in various test systems. Such short times are also characteristic of those observed in sedentary patients with thrombosis or disseminated intravascular coagulation, and of those observed in experimental animals after thrombin infusion. The patients exhibit an increase in circulating fibrinopeptide A, which is attributed to thrombin action on circulating fibrinogen, and to an increase of fibrinogen degradation products, which is thought to indicate reactive fibrinolysis. To check whether physical exercise leads to fibrinemia, 10 healthy male volunteers were subjected to strenuous exercise on a bicycle ergometer. Blood samples were taken immediately before and on completion of the exercise period. Despite a significant shortening of the activated partial thromboplastin time, the thrombin time, and the Reptilase time, no increase of fibrinopeptide A could be demonstrated and the ethanol gelation test remained consistently negative. Simultaneously, the euglobulin lysis time was significantly shortened, whereas the fibrin(ogen) degradation products did not increase. The results indicate that the shortening of the coagulation times associated with physical exercise must be explained by mechanisms other than thrombin-mediated conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin.", "contents": "Lack of fibrin formation in exercise-induced activation of coagulation. Strenuous physical exercise leads to a significant shortening of blood clotting in various test systems. Such short times are also characteristic of those observed in sedentary patients with thrombosis or disseminated intravascular coagulation, and of those observed in experimental animals after thrombin infusion. The patients exhibit an increase in circulating fibrinopeptide A, which is attributed to thrombin action on circulating fibrinogen, and to an increase of fibrinogen degradation products, which is thought to indicate reactive fibrinolysis. To check whether physical exercise leads to fibrinemia, 10 healthy male volunteers were subjected to strenuous exercise on a bicycle ergometer. Blood samples were taken immediately before and on completion of the exercise period. Despite a significant shortening of the activated partial thromboplastin time, the thrombin time, and the Reptilase time, no increase of fibrinopeptide A could be demonstrated and the ethanol gelation test remained consistently negative. Simultaneously, the euglobulin lysis time was significantly shortened, whereas the fibrin(ogen) degradation products did not increase. The results indicate that the shortening of the coagulation times associated with physical exercise must be explained by mechanisms other than thrombin-mediated conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin.", "PMID": 434223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2068", "title": "Effect of DOCA-NaCl hypertension on pre- and postcapillary resistance in isolated hindlimbs of dogs.", "content": "Measurements of precapillary resistance (Ra), postcapillary resistance (Ra), postcapillary resistance (Rv), capillary filtration coefficient (Kf), and mean capillary hydrostatic pressure (Pci) were made during constant-flow perfusion of isolated hindlimbs from control and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-NaCl-treated hypertensive dogs by the isogravimetric method. Both Ra and Rv were found to be significantly increased in the hypertensive group, even after maximal vasodilatation with papaverine. The net decreases in Ra and Rv following papaverine infusion were not significantly different between control and hypertensive animals. These results suggest that the observed increases in Ra and Rv were due to structural adaptation (increased wall-to-lumen ratio). Nonpapaverinized hindlimbs from hypertensive dogs exhibited a significant 40% reduction in Kf, suggesting that capillary surface area for fluid exchange was decreased. The compliance of the hindlimb vascular bed was found to be significantly decreased in the hypertensive group. Pci of both groups of hindlimbs were not different between groups and was not affected by papaverine. This result suggests that net capillary permeability to plasma proteins in this preparation was not changed by hypertension.", "contents": "Effect of DOCA-NaCl hypertension on pre- and postcapillary resistance in isolated hindlimbs of dogs. Measurements of precapillary resistance (Ra), postcapillary resistance (Ra), postcapillary resistance (Rv), capillary filtration coefficient (Kf), and mean capillary hydrostatic pressure (Pci) were made during constant-flow perfusion of isolated hindlimbs from control and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-NaCl-treated hypertensive dogs by the isogravimetric method. Both Ra and Rv were found to be significantly increased in the hypertensive group, even after maximal vasodilatation with papaverine. The net decreases in Ra and Rv following papaverine infusion were not significantly different between control and hypertensive animals. These results suggest that the observed increases in Ra and Rv were due to structural adaptation (increased wall-to-lumen ratio). Nonpapaverinized hindlimbs from hypertensive dogs exhibited a significant 40% reduction in Kf, suggesting that capillary surface area for fluid exchange was decreased. The compliance of the hindlimb vascular bed was found to be significantly decreased in the hypertensive group. Pci of both groups of hindlimbs were not different between groups and was not affected by papaverine. This result suggests that net capillary permeability to plasma proteins in this preparation was not changed by hypertension.", "PMID": 434224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2069", "title": "Cardiovascular actions of beta-phenylethylamine.", "content": "beta-Phenylethylamine increased mean aortic blood pressure, total peripheral vascular resistance, left ventricular dP/dt, and (dP/dt)/P in chloralose-anesthetized dogs. Pretreatment with phentolamine reduced the increases in aortic blood pressure and total peripheral vascular resistance produced by beta-phenylethylamine, whereas, the effects of beta-phenylethylamine on left ventricular dP/dt and (dP/dt)/P were abolished by propranolol. beta-Phenylethylamine pretreatment, but increased both after phentolamine pretreatment. Furthermore, both the cardiac and vascular effects of beta-phenylethylamine were abolished by desipramine. These results indicate that beta-phenylethylamine exerts both positive inotropic and vasoconstrictory effects, probably by releasing endogenous norepinephrine from the adrenergic nerve endings.", "contents": "Cardiovascular actions of beta-phenylethylamine. beta-Phenylethylamine increased mean aortic blood pressure, total peripheral vascular resistance, left ventricular dP/dt, and (dP/dt)/P in chloralose-anesthetized dogs. Pretreatment with phentolamine reduced the increases in aortic blood pressure and total peripheral vascular resistance produced by beta-phenylethylamine, whereas, the effects of beta-phenylethylamine on left ventricular dP/dt and (dP/dt)/P were abolished by propranolol. beta-Phenylethylamine pretreatment, but increased both after phentolamine pretreatment. Furthermore, both the cardiac and vascular effects of beta-phenylethylamine were abolished by desipramine. These results indicate that beta-phenylethylamine exerts both positive inotropic and vasoconstrictory effects, probably by releasing endogenous norepinephrine from the adrenergic nerve endings.", "PMID": 434225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2070", "title": "Prostaglandin E release from dog skeletal muscle during restricted flow exercise.", "content": "Prostaglandin E (PGE) release from the anterior calf muscles of anesthetized dogs was measured during and following exercise. Blood flow was held constant at 15.5 +/- 1.6 (SEM) ml.min-1. 100 g-1 and the muscles were stimulated for 20 min at a frequency of 4 Hz. PGE release dropped from a resting level of 11.4 +/- 3.8 ng.min-1.100 g-1 to 6.5 +/- 2.0 ng.min-1.100 g-1 during exercise (P less than 0.05). Following exercise, PGE release slowly returned to and eventually exceeded the resting level over a 60-min period. Return of vascular resistance to control was even more prolonged. Indomethacin (5 mg/kg) caused 1) an increase in resting resistance (40%), 2) a drop in PGE release (48% at rest), and 3) a more rapid return of vascular resistance to control following exercise. PGE release does not appear to contribute to the vasodilation during exercise, but can account for the portion of vascular resistance recovery not blocked by indomethacin. The remaining prolonged vasodilation could be explained by another as yet unidentified vasodilator(s). This preparation exhibits tonic prostaglandin release that causes a vasodilation at rest.", "contents": "Prostaglandin E release from dog skeletal muscle during restricted flow exercise. Prostaglandin E (PGE) release from the anterior calf muscles of anesthetized dogs was measured during and following exercise. Blood flow was held constant at 15.5 +/- 1.6 (SEM) ml.min-1. 100 g-1 and the muscles were stimulated for 20 min at a frequency of 4 Hz. PGE release dropped from a resting level of 11.4 +/- 3.8 ng.min-1.100 g-1 to 6.5 +/- 2.0 ng.min-1.100 g-1 during exercise (P less than 0.05). Following exercise, PGE release slowly returned to and eventually exceeded the resting level over a 60-min period. Return of vascular resistance to control was even more prolonged. Indomethacin (5 mg/kg) caused 1) an increase in resting resistance (40%), 2) a drop in PGE release (48% at rest), and 3) a more rapid return of vascular resistance to control following exercise. PGE release does not appear to contribute to the vasodilation during exercise, but can account for the portion of vascular resistance recovery not blocked by indomethacin. The remaining prolonged vasodilation could be explained by another as yet unidentified vasodilator(s). This preparation exhibits tonic prostaglandin release that causes a vasodilation at rest.", "PMID": 434226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2071", "title": "Morphological and physiological correlation of bradykinin-induced macromolecular efflux.", "content": "Bradykinin applied topically for 4 min produced marked dose-related increases in the number of fluorescent dextran (mol wt 145,000) vascular leakage sites exclusively from small postcapillary venules--evidence for an increase in macromolecular permeability. The increase in macromolecular permeability was short-lived, making repeated applications possible. The number of bradykinin-induced venular fluorescent dextran leakage sites could be greatly reduced by the simultaneous topical application of isoproterenol, and this antagonism of the increase in macromolecular permeability could be prevented by pretreatment with propranolol. The topical application of papaverine failed to antagonize the increase in the number of venular leakage sites of fluorescent dextran by bradykinin. A continuous 90-min superfusion of bradykinin elicited an initial marked increase in the number of fluorescent dextran venular leakage sites, which then waned after 20-30 min, returning to near control despite the continued superfusion with bradykinin. In canine forelimbs the bradykinin-induced increase in protein efflux, total protein transport, and lymph flow also peaked in approximately 30 min and then waned markedly despite continued local intra-arterial infusions of this agent for prolonged periods. The morphological data from the cheek pouch agrees well with the physiological data from the forelimb, suggesting that an increase in protein efflux in the canine forelimb could be readily explained by an increase in the number of large pores.", "contents": "Morphological and physiological correlation of bradykinin-induced macromolecular efflux. Bradykinin applied topically for 4 min produced marked dose-related increases in the number of fluorescent dextran (mol wt 145,000) vascular leakage sites exclusively from small postcapillary venules--evidence for an increase in macromolecular permeability. The increase in macromolecular permeability was short-lived, making repeated applications possible. The number of bradykinin-induced venular fluorescent dextran leakage sites could be greatly reduced by the simultaneous topical application of isoproterenol, and this antagonism of the increase in macromolecular permeability could be prevented by pretreatment with propranolol. The topical application of papaverine failed to antagonize the increase in the number of venular leakage sites of fluorescent dextran by bradykinin. A continuous 90-min superfusion of bradykinin elicited an initial marked increase in the number of fluorescent dextran venular leakage sites, which then waned after 20-30 min, returning to near control despite the continued superfusion with bradykinin. In canine forelimbs the bradykinin-induced increase in protein efflux, total protein transport, and lymph flow also peaked in approximately 30 min and then waned markedly despite continued local intra-arterial infusions of this agent for prolonged periods. The morphological data from the cheek pouch agrees well with the physiological data from the forelimb, suggesting that an increase in protein efflux in the canine forelimb could be readily explained by an increase in the number of large pores.", "PMID": 434227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2072", "title": "Effect of pentobarbital anesthesia on hypotension after 10% hemorrhage in the dog.", "content": "The effect of pentobarbital anesthesia, 30 mg.kg body wt-1, on the rapidly acting arterial pressure control system was studied on splenectomized dogs chronically instrumented with catheters for pressure measurement and hemorrhage and with a flow probe for measurement of aortic flow. The dogs were subjected to 10% hemorrhage in 30 s under conscious and anesthetized states before and after denervation of the carotid sinus nerves (CS) and/or the vagi (V). In the intact nerve condition, arterial pressure fall (delta AP) at 1-2 min after hemorrhage was 8.0 +/- 1.3 (mean +/- SE) mmHg in conscious dogs and 9.4 +/- 2.0 mmHg in dogs under anesthesia. There was no significant difference between these delta APs or other pairs of delta APs in conscious and anesthetized states at any stage of denervation. As long as the CS reflex was intact, heart rate and total peripheral resistance increased in response to hemorrhage as in the intact condition. In conclusion, the pentobarbital anesthesia had little effect on the rapidly acting arterial pressure control system as far as its capacity to restore mean arterial pressure after the brief 10% hemorrhage is concerned.", "contents": "Effect of pentobarbital anesthesia on hypotension after 10% hemorrhage in the dog. The effect of pentobarbital anesthesia, 30 mg.kg body wt-1, on the rapidly acting arterial pressure control system was studied on splenectomized dogs chronically instrumented with catheters for pressure measurement and hemorrhage and with a flow probe for measurement of aortic flow. The dogs were subjected to 10% hemorrhage in 30 s under conscious and anesthetized states before and after denervation of the carotid sinus nerves (CS) and/or the vagi (V). In the intact nerve condition, arterial pressure fall (delta AP) at 1-2 min after hemorrhage was 8.0 +/- 1.3 (mean +/- SE) mmHg in conscious dogs and 9.4 +/- 2.0 mmHg in dogs under anesthesia. There was no significant difference between these delta APs or other pairs of delta APs in conscious and anesthetized states at any stage of denervation. As long as the CS reflex was intact, heart rate and total peripheral resistance increased in response to hemorrhage as in the intact condition. In conclusion, the pentobarbital anesthesia had little effect on the rapidly acting arterial pressure control system as far as its capacity to restore mean arterial pressure after the brief 10% hemorrhage is concerned.", "PMID": 434228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2073", "title": "Digoxin-norepinephrine response and calcium blocker effects in vascular smooth muscle.", "content": "The mechanism of potentiation by digoxin of the response of vascular smooth muscle to norepinephrine was investigated in 5-cm intact segments of rabbit carotid artery. Segments were mounted in a chamber and perfused at constant pressure while flow and upstream and downstream pressures were recorded and resistance was calculated. Each vessel was perfused with a submaximal vasoconstricting concentration of norepinephrine (6 x 10(-6)M) alone, in the presence of digoxin (6 x 10(-5)M), and during exposure to both digoxin and one of the following calcium antagonists: lanthanum chloride (5 x 10(-4)M procaine hydrochloride (5 x 10(-3)M), or verapamil (5 x 10(-5)M). Digoxin potentiated the response to norepinephrine alone by 20% (P less than 0.01), to norepinephrine plus lanthanum chloride by 10% (P less than 0.001), and to norepinephrine plus procaine hydrochloride by 17% (P less than 0.001). Digoxin did not potentiate the norepinephrine response in the presence of verapamil. These data suggest that the mechanism of digoxin potentiation of the norepinephrine response in vascular smooth muscle may involve an alteration in a cellular calcium sequestration or release process. The potential cellular sites that may contribute to this phenomenon are discussed.", "contents": "Digoxin-norepinephrine response and calcium blocker effects in vascular smooth muscle. The mechanism of potentiation by digoxin of the response of vascular smooth muscle to norepinephrine was investigated in 5-cm intact segments of rabbit carotid artery. Segments were mounted in a chamber and perfused at constant pressure while flow and upstream and downstream pressures were recorded and resistance was calculated. Each vessel was perfused with a submaximal vasoconstricting concentration of norepinephrine (6 x 10(-6)M) alone, in the presence of digoxin (6 x 10(-5)M), and during exposure to both digoxin and one of the following calcium antagonists: lanthanum chloride (5 x 10(-4)M procaine hydrochloride (5 x 10(-3)M), or verapamil (5 x 10(-5)M). Digoxin potentiated the response to norepinephrine alone by 20% (P less than 0.01), to norepinephrine plus lanthanum chloride by 10% (P less than 0.001), and to norepinephrine plus procaine hydrochloride by 17% (P less than 0.001). Digoxin did not potentiate the norepinephrine response in the presence of verapamil. These data suggest that the mechanism of digoxin potentiation of the norepinephrine response in vascular smooth muscle may involve an alteration in a cellular calcium sequestration or release process. The potential cellular sites that may contribute to this phenomenon are discussed.", "PMID": 434229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2074", "title": "Choline acetyltransferase activity in rat and guinea pig heart following vagotomy.", "content": "Choline acetyltransferase (CAT), which serves as a marker for the preganglionic and postganglionic parasympathetic cholinergic neurons in heart, was measured in heart regions in rats and guinea pigs after either a right or a left unilateral cervical vagotomy or a sham operation. One day after a left vagotomy in rat, CAT activity was decreased in the region of the SA and AV nodes. In rats killed on the 2nd, 4th, and 8th day after left vagotomy, the activity of CAT in these regions increased to the control level. CAT activity in the remainder of the heart did not decrease. In guinea pig 1 wk after a left vagotomy, CAT activity was decreased in the anterior interventricular septum but not in other regions. Selective increases in enzyme activity were noted in the right atrial appendage following left vagotomy and in the superior interventricular septum following right vagotomy. These results suggest that compensatory increases in CAT activity occur that may be related to collateral sprouting similar to that observed in the frog heart.", "contents": "Choline acetyltransferase activity in rat and guinea pig heart following vagotomy. Choline acetyltransferase (CAT), which serves as a marker for the preganglionic and postganglionic parasympathetic cholinergic neurons in heart, was measured in heart regions in rats and guinea pigs after either a right or a left unilateral cervical vagotomy or a sham operation. One day after a left vagotomy in rat, CAT activity was decreased in the region of the SA and AV nodes. In rats killed on the 2nd, 4th, and 8th day after left vagotomy, the activity of CAT in these regions increased to the control level. CAT activity in the remainder of the heart did not decrease. In guinea pig 1 wk after a left vagotomy, CAT activity was decreased in the anterior interventricular septum but not in other regions. Selective increases in enzyme activity were noted in the right atrial appendage following left vagotomy and in the superior interventricular septum following right vagotomy. These results suggest that compensatory increases in CAT activity occur that may be related to collateral sprouting similar to that observed in the frog heart.", "PMID": 434230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2075", "title": "Nerve growth factor-enhanced reinnervation of surgically denervated canine heart.", "content": "Nerve growth factor (NGF) was administered in doses of 25,000 U daily for the first 5 postoperative days to dogs subjected to cardiac denervation. These dogs and untreated cardiac-denervated dogs were killed at 1, 2, 3, and 6 mo postoperatively. Tritiated norepinephrine ([3H]NE) was administered prior to death, after which the hearts were removed and eight segments (right and left atria, right ventricular conus and sinus, left ventricular base and apex and high and low ventricular septum) analyzed to determine myocardial NE content and uptake of [3H]NE. Our data demonstrated enhanced cardiac reinnervation of the left ventricular base in NGF-treated dogs.", "contents": "Nerve growth factor-enhanced reinnervation of surgically denervated canine heart. Nerve growth factor (NGF) was administered in doses of 25,000 U daily for the first 5 postoperative days to dogs subjected to cardiac denervation. These dogs and untreated cardiac-denervated dogs were killed at 1, 2, 3, and 6 mo postoperatively. Tritiated norepinephrine ([3H]NE) was administered prior to death, after which the hearts were removed and eight segments (right and left atria, right ventricular conus and sinus, left ventricular base and apex and high and low ventricular septum) analyzed to determine myocardial NE content and uptake of [3H]NE. Our data demonstrated enhanced cardiac reinnervation of the left ventricular base in NGF-treated dogs.", "PMID": 434231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2076", "title": "Increase in passive tension of spontaneously beating atria in hyperosmolar media.", "content": "Spontaneously beating rabbit atria were used for study of increases in passive tension induced by hyperosmolar Tyrode bathing media. The time course and degree of passive tension change was dependent on the level of osmolality and the osmotic agent used. The effectiveness of various agents added to Tyrode solution in increasing resting tension was in the order sucrose greater than mannitol greater than or equal to NaCl greater than glucose greater than = no change. The hyperosmotically induced \"contracture\" was similar to contracture induced by high Ca2+ medium, but the maximum hyperosmotic effect was greater than that of high Ca2+. In contrast to active atria, inactive atria showed no increase in passive tension in hyperosmotic solutions or in Tyrode solution containing high Ca2+. After depolarization with Tyrode medium containing high K+ or zero K+, increased Ca2+ caused contracture in inactive left atria greater than that caused by hyperosmotic media (+200 mM sucrose) in active right atria or atrial pairs. Results of the study indicate that although other factors may be involved, increased Ca2+ flux inward could largely account for the passive tension response.", "contents": "Increase in passive tension of spontaneously beating atria in hyperosmolar media. Spontaneously beating rabbit atria were used for study of increases in passive tension induced by hyperosmolar Tyrode bathing media. The time course and degree of passive tension change was dependent on the level of osmolality and the osmotic agent used. The effectiveness of various agents added to Tyrode solution in increasing resting tension was in the order sucrose greater than mannitol greater than or equal to NaCl greater than glucose greater than = no change. The hyperosmotically induced \"contracture\" was similar to contracture induced by high Ca2+ medium, but the maximum hyperosmotic effect was greater than that of high Ca2+. In contrast to active atria, inactive atria showed no increase in passive tension in hyperosmotic solutions or in Tyrode solution containing high Ca2+. After depolarization with Tyrode medium containing high K+ or zero K+, increased Ca2+ caused contracture in inactive left atria greater than that caused by hyperosmotic media (+200 mM sucrose) in active right atria or atrial pairs. Results of the study indicate that although other factors may be involved, increased Ca2+ flux inward could largely account for the passive tension response.", "PMID": 434232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2077", "title": "Role of vagal afferents in vasodepressor effects of PGE2 in spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "In anesthetized, spontaneously hypertensive rats (Okamoto-Aoki), injections of 0.75, 1.5, and 3.0 microgram/kg PGE2 into the jugular vein caused transient decreases (mean +/- SE) in arterial pressure of 21 +/- 2, 37 +/- 3, and 78 +/- 6 mmHg, respectively, before cervical vagotomy and of 1 +/- 1, 15 +/- 4, and 15 +/- 6 mmHg after cervical vagotomy. The vasodepressor effect of jugular vein injections of 3.0 microgram/kg PGE2, but not of lower doses, was depressed by vagotomy in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto and Sprague-Dawley rats. Vagotomy did not reduce the hypotensive response to intra-aortic injections of PGE2 in these hypertensive and normotensive rats. The depressor effect of PGE2 thus appears to have a significant reflex component mediated through cardiopulmonary receptors subserved by vagal afferents, with hypertensive rats exhibiting a lower threshold than normotensive rats. A vagally mediated reflex component to the depressor effect of PGE2 could not be demonstrated in normotensive rabbits or in rabbits and rats with chronic renovascular hypertension. Thus, a naturally occurring vasoactive substance can stimulate cardiopulmonary receptors subserved by vagal afferents in the rat, and spontaneously hypertensive rats appear to be especially sensitive to this effect.", "contents": "Role of vagal afferents in vasodepressor effects of PGE2 in spontaneously hypertensive rats. In anesthetized, spontaneously hypertensive rats (Okamoto-Aoki), injections of 0.75, 1.5, and 3.0 microgram/kg PGE2 into the jugular vein caused transient decreases (mean +/- SE) in arterial pressure of 21 +/- 2, 37 +/- 3, and 78 +/- 6 mmHg, respectively, before cervical vagotomy and of 1 +/- 1, 15 +/- 4, and 15 +/- 6 mmHg after cervical vagotomy. The vasodepressor effect of jugular vein injections of 3.0 microgram/kg PGE2, but not of lower doses, was depressed by vagotomy in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto and Sprague-Dawley rats. Vagotomy did not reduce the hypotensive response to intra-aortic injections of PGE2 in these hypertensive and normotensive rats. The depressor effect of PGE2 thus appears to have a significant reflex component mediated through cardiopulmonary receptors subserved by vagal afferents, with hypertensive rats exhibiting a lower threshold than normotensive rats. A vagally mediated reflex component to the depressor effect of PGE2 could not be demonstrated in normotensive rabbits or in rabbits and rats with chronic renovascular hypertension. Thus, a naturally occurring vasoactive substance can stimulate cardiopulmonary receptors subserved by vagal afferents in the rat, and spontaneously hypertensive rats appear to be especially sensitive to this effect.", "PMID": 434233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2078", "title": "An improved isolated heart preparation for external assessment of myocardial metabolism.", "content": "To facilitate characterization of myocardial metabolism with the use of positron-emitting tracers, we developed an isolated heart preparation designed to simulate physiological levels of flow and substrate extraction. Isovolumically beating hearts were perfused retrograde at 60 mmHg with modified non-recirculating Krebs-Henseleit (KH) solution with or without washed sheep red blood cells at a hematocrit of 25 or 40 (KH-RBC25, KH-RBC40). Left ventricular (LV) systolic pressure averaged 63 mmHg with KH alone, 78 with KH-RBC25, and 98 with KH-RBC40. LV dP/dt, pressure-time index, and oxygen consumption increased in an analogous fashion. Fatty acid extraction increased from 1.5% with KH to 11.8% in hearts perfused with KH-RBC40, although net uptake was not increased markedly because of the associated differences in flow (4.6 ml.g-1.min-1 with KH and 1.5 with KH-RBC40). Hearts perfused with erythrocyte-rich media exhibited functional and metabolic stability and less edema. The preparation avoids intrinsic limitations encountered with buffer-perfused hearts and should prove useful for characterization of cardiac metabolism with radiolabeled tracers relevant to positron emission transaxial tomography.", "contents": "An improved isolated heart preparation for external assessment of myocardial metabolism. To facilitate characterization of myocardial metabolism with the use of positron-emitting tracers, we developed an isolated heart preparation designed to simulate physiological levels of flow and substrate extraction. Isovolumically beating hearts were perfused retrograde at 60 mmHg with modified non-recirculating Krebs-Henseleit (KH) solution with or without washed sheep red blood cells at a hematocrit of 25 or 40 (KH-RBC25, KH-RBC40). Left ventricular (LV) systolic pressure averaged 63 mmHg with KH alone, 78 with KH-RBC25, and 98 with KH-RBC40. LV dP/dt, pressure-time index, and oxygen consumption increased in an analogous fashion. Fatty acid extraction increased from 1.5% with KH to 11.8% in hearts perfused with KH-RBC40, although net uptake was not increased markedly because of the associated differences in flow (4.6 ml.g-1.min-1 with KH and 1.5 with KH-RBC40). Hearts perfused with erythrocyte-rich media exhibited functional and metabolic stability and less edema. The preparation avoids intrinsic limitations encountered with buffer-perfused hearts and should prove useful for characterization of cardiac metabolism with radiolabeled tracers relevant to positron emission transaxial tomography.", "PMID": 434234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2079", "title": "Extracorporeal circulation system for coronary artery perfusion in the closed-chest dog.", "content": "An adjustable constant-flow coronary artery perfusion system has been developed for use in the anesthetized closed-chest dog. Coronary flow and perfusion pressure measurements are obtained over the entire autoregulatory range. Coronary flow was briefly diverted to a bypass cannula and then returned to its original level. Coronary vasodilatation resulted in a fall of perfusion pressure below its preocclusion value, but recovery of vascular tone was complete in about twice the time required during unrestricted reactive hyperemia. It is concluded that no flow debt repayment is required for the restoration of vascular tone after brief occlusions. In the measurements made with this system, intramyocardial pressure distribution is not influenced by thoracotomy, pericardotomy, or positive-pressure respiration, and surgical trauma is minimal.", "contents": "Extracorporeal circulation system for coronary artery perfusion in the closed-chest dog. An adjustable constant-flow coronary artery perfusion system has been developed for use in the anesthetized closed-chest dog. Coronary flow and perfusion pressure measurements are obtained over the entire autoregulatory range. Coronary flow was briefly diverted to a bypass cannula and then returned to its original level. Coronary vasodilatation resulted in a fall of perfusion pressure below its preocclusion value, but recovery of vascular tone was complete in about twice the time required during unrestricted reactive hyperemia. It is concluded that no flow debt repayment is required for the restoration of vascular tone after brief occlusions. In the measurements made with this system, intramyocardial pressure distribution is not influenced by thoracotomy, pericardotomy, or positive-pressure respiration, and surgical trauma is minimal.", "PMID": 434235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2080", "title": "Development and use of a new high-frequency, low mechanical impedance strain gauge.", "content": "A low mechanical impedance strain gauge that imposed insignificant preload to the myocardial fibers was tested in vitro and in vivo. The dynamic response of the gauge to an abrupt change in length (step response) and to sinusoidal perturbation was determined. The electrical output reached 95% of maximum steady-state response within 3-5 ms after a step displacement. Frequency analysis indicated a flat response up to 80 oscillations/s. The in vivo testings of the gauges were performed on intact, working swine hearts during control and ischemic flows in a regionally perfused preparation. During control perfusion the gauges demonstrated epicardial shortening in systole and early-to-mid diastole. Relaxation was confined to late diastole. With ischemic perfusion there was a progressive loss of systolic shortening, but minimal disruption in global hemodynamics. Correlative measurements were also made with sonomicrometers positioned in subepicardial myocardium. Patterns of motion, shortening, and changes in strain were similar between the two types of gauges.", "contents": "Development and use of a new high-frequency, low mechanical impedance strain gauge. A low mechanical impedance strain gauge that imposed insignificant preload to the myocardial fibers was tested in vitro and in vivo. The dynamic response of the gauge to an abrupt change in length (step response) and to sinusoidal perturbation was determined. The electrical output reached 95% of maximum steady-state response within 3-5 ms after a step displacement. Frequency analysis indicated a flat response up to 80 oscillations/s. The in vivo testings of the gauges were performed on intact, working swine hearts during control and ischemic flows in a regionally perfused preparation. During control perfusion the gauges demonstrated epicardial shortening in systole and early-to-mid diastole. Relaxation was confined to late diastole. With ischemic perfusion there was a progressive loss of systolic shortening, but minimal disruption in global hemodynamics. Correlative measurements were also made with sonomicrometers positioned in subepicardial myocardium. Patterns of motion, shortening, and changes in strain were similar between the two types of gauges.", "PMID": 434236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2081", "title": "Awareness and disengagement in cancer patients.", "content": "The authors found that cancer patients (N = 44) did not differ from patients with other chronic illnesses (N = 27) with respect to awareness of their condition or ratings on an unobtrusive, nonverbal measure of disengagement. Cancer patients who were aware were more engaged than those who were not, but this was equally true for the noncancer patients. Awareness, for the cancer patients, was not associated with frequency of visiting or with living for a longer or shorter period than expected. There was a significant interaction, however, in that patients who were aware lived longer if they were engaged, whereas patients who were unaware lived longer if they were disengaged. Caution and judgment should be exercised in sharing information with terminally ill patients because awareness may be beneficial for some but not for all.", "contents": "Awareness and disengagement in cancer patients. The authors found that cancer patients (N = 44) did not differ from patients with other chronic illnesses (N = 27) with respect to awareness of their condition or ratings on an unobtrusive, nonverbal measure of disengagement. Cancer patients who were aware were more engaged than those who were not, but this was equally true for the noncancer patients. Awareness, for the cancer patients, was not associated with frequency of visiting or with living for a longer or shorter period than expected. There was a significant interaction, however, in that patients who were aware lived longer if they were engaged, whereas patients who were unaware lived longer if they were disengaged. Caution and judgment should be exercised in sharing information with terminally ill patients because awareness may be beneficial for some but not for all.", "PMID": 434237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2082", "title": "Psychiatric combat reactions during the Yom Kippur War.", "content": "The authors explore the stress of war by reporting some selected epidemiological aspects of the psychiatric combat reactions among Israeli troops during a period of intensive hostilities in the Yom Kippur War of 1973. They examined the distribution of these casualties according to intensity of fire, age, rank, sociopsychological grading, and military assignment and measured treatment outcome at the end of the war and 18 months later.", "contents": "Psychiatric combat reactions during the Yom Kippur War. The authors explore the stress of war by reporting some selected epidemiological aspects of the psychiatric combat reactions among Israeli troops during a period of intensive hostilities in the Yom Kippur War of 1973. They examined the distribution of these casualties according to intensity of fire, age, rank, sociopsychological grading, and military assignment and measured treatment outcome at the end of the war and 18 months later.", "PMID": 434238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2083", "title": "The myth of the alliance with borderline patients.", "content": "The author questions the concept of a therapeutic alliance in the psychotherapy of patients with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders. The motivating elements in their treatment are the emerging, sustaining transferences, which also allow the patients to appreciate the real qualities of their therapist. As they internalize aspects of their interactions with the therapist, including the therapist's real characteristics that are lacking in themselves, the patients gradually develop the capacity to work collaboratively with him or her. When a solid therapeutic alliance is established, the patients have reached a neurotic level of functioning.", "contents": "The myth of the alliance with borderline patients. The author questions the concept of a therapeutic alliance in the psychotherapy of patients with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders. The motivating elements in their treatment are the emerging, sustaining transferences, which also allow the patients to appreciate the real qualities of their therapist. As they internalize aspects of their interactions with the therapist, including the therapist's real characteristics that are lacking in themselves, the patients gradually develop the capacity to work collaboratively with him or her. When a solid therapeutic alliance is established, the patients have reached a neurotic level of functioning.", "PMID": 434239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2084", "title": "A psychoanalyst reports at mid-career.", "content": "The author states that the current pessimistic impression of the potential of psychoanalysis as a therapy is largely due to the inclusion of a disproportionate number of inexperienced analysts in reports on groups of practitioners. To correct this bias, he summarizes his own experience of two decades as a full-time psychoanalyst, describing his successful analyses as well as his unsuccessful attempts. He concludes that the satisfaction of commitment to a psychoanalytic career comes from the fact that it confirms the usefulness of the analytic method as a means to assist others to achieve personal growth and to illuminate human mental life.", "contents": "A psychoanalyst reports at mid-career. The author states that the current pessimistic impression of the potential of psychoanalysis as a therapy is largely due to the inclusion of a disproportionate number of inexperienced analysts in reports on groups of practitioners. To correct this bias, he summarizes his own experience of two decades as a full-time psychoanalyst, describing his successful analyses as well as his unsuccessful attempts. He concludes that the satisfaction of commitment to a psychoanalytic career comes from the fact that it confirms the usefulness of the analytic method as a means to assist others to achieve personal growth and to illuminate human mental life.", "PMID": 434240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2085", "title": "Psychiatric malpractice: the California experience.", "content": "The cost of psychiatric malpractice insurance has increased dramatically in recent years. To shed light on the extent to which this increase is justified the author polled 133 California psychiatrists who had indicated experience with some form of claims activity over the past 5 years. The 107 respondents reported 105 cases, of which 57 (54%) resulted in no more than a notification of a possible claim, 22 (21%) did not proceed beyond legal deposition, 20 (19%) were settled by dollar payment before trial, and 6 (6%) were left to the courts. The author recommends tort reform and refinement of reported claim and loss data to contain the cost of malpractice insurance.", "contents": "Psychiatric malpractice: the California experience. The cost of psychiatric malpractice insurance has increased dramatically in recent years. To shed light on the extent to which this increase is justified the author polled 133 California psychiatrists who had indicated experience with some form of claims activity over the past 5 years. The 107 respondents reported 105 cases, of which 57 (54%) resulted in no more than a notification of a possible claim, 22 (21%) did not proceed beyond legal deposition, 20 (19%) were settled by dollar payment before trial, and 6 (6%) were left to the courts. The author recommends tort reform and refinement of reported claim and loss data to contain the cost of malpractice insurance.", "PMID": 434241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2086", "title": "Characteristics and disposition of persons found not guilty by reason of insanity in New York State, 1971-1976.", "content": "In order to develop an empirical profile of persons acquitted by reason of insanity from which policy could be developed, the authors studied all acquittals in New York State from 1971-1976. During this period 196 men and 29 women were found not guilty by reason of insanity. In contrast to adults admitted to state correctional facilities, the study group contained proportionately more persons who were white and older. The most frequent crimes for which subjects were tried were homicide, assault, and robbery. Most victims were acquaintances of the defendants. By 1976, 67 persons had been discharged after hospitalization ranging from 1 to 1,235 days. These defendants are still being followed after their return to the community.", "contents": "Characteristics and disposition of persons found not guilty by reason of insanity in New York State, 1971-1976. In order to develop an empirical profile of persons acquitted by reason of insanity from which policy could be developed, the authors studied all acquittals in New York State from 1971-1976. During this period 196 men and 29 women were found not guilty by reason of insanity. In contrast to adults admitted to state correctional facilities, the study group contained proportionately more persons who were white and older. The most frequent crimes for which subjects were tried were homicide, assault, and robbery. Most victims were acquaintances of the defendants. By 1976, 67 persons had been discharged after hospitalization ranging from 1 to 1,235 days. These defendants are still being followed after their return to the community.", "PMID": 434242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2087", "title": "Psychiatry and the rhetoric of models.", "content": "The term \"medical model\" has been increasingly used in discussions about the future course of psychiatry. The author examines various types of models and suggests that \"medical model\" is a rhetorical device which tends to obscure many important issues. He suggests that psychiatry avoid overrestricting its area of expertise.", "contents": "Psychiatry and the rhetoric of models. The term \"medical model\" has been increasingly used in discussions about the future course of psychiatry. The author examines various types of models and suggests that \"medical model\" is a rhetorical device which tends to obscure many important issues. He suggests that psychiatry avoid overrestricting its area of expertise.", "PMID": 434243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2088", "title": "Urinary MHPG excretion in minimal brain dysfunction and its modification by d-amphetamine.", "content": "The authors studied the excretion of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenlyglycol (MHPG) in 15 hyperactive boys and 13 controls. They further examined soft neurologic signs and clinical drug response to d-amphetamine administration for two weeks in the hyperactive boys. MHPG excretion was significantly lower in the hyperactive boys than in the controls. d-Amphetamine decreased MHPG excretion significantly in the drug responders only. Pretreatment MHPG excretion did not predict clinical drug response. The responders had more soft neurologic signs than the nonresponders. Furthermore, soft neurologic signs were not related to pretreatment MHPG levels.", "contents": "Urinary MHPG excretion in minimal brain dysfunction and its modification by d-amphetamine. The authors studied the excretion of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenlyglycol (MHPG) in 15 hyperactive boys and 13 controls. They further examined soft neurologic signs and clinical drug response to d-amphetamine administration for two weeks in the hyperactive boys. MHPG excretion was significantly lower in the hyperactive boys than in the controls. d-Amphetamine decreased MHPG excretion significantly in the drug responders only. Pretreatment MHPG excretion did not predict clinical drug response. The responders had more soft neurologic signs than the nonresponders. Furthermore, soft neurologic signs were not related to pretreatment MHPG levels.", "PMID": 434244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2089", "title": "Amino acids in bipolar affective disorders: increased glycine levels in erythrocytes.", "content": "The authors measured the concentrations of 20 amino acids in the erythrocytes and plasma of 13 female bipolar patients and 10 female normal controls. The concentration of glycine in the erythrocyte was significantly elevated in the patient group. No differences were present in the plasma. Preliminary findings indicate that the high glycine levels were present in patients who were depressed, manic, or in remission and were unaffected by electroshock therapy.", "contents": "Amino acids in bipolar affective disorders: increased glycine levels in erythrocytes. The authors measured the concentrations of 20 amino acids in the erythrocytes and plasma of 13 female bipolar patients and 10 female normal controls. The concentration of glycine in the erythrocyte was significantly elevated in the patient group. No differences were present in the plasma. Preliminary findings indicate that the high glycine levels were present in patients who were depressed, manic, or in remission and were unaffected by electroshock therapy.", "PMID": 434245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2090", "title": "The role of plasma amine oxidase, platelet monoamine oxidase, and red cell catechol-O-methyl transferase in severe behavioral reactions to disulfiram.", "content": "The authors assayed platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO), plasma amine oxidase (AO), and red cell catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) in 32 male alcoholics before they began disulfiram treatment. Seven subjects developed psychotic reactions to disulfiram; these 7 had significantly lower pretreatment MAO and AO levels and significantly higher COMT than the patients who had no adverse reactions to disulfiram, which suggests that severe behavioral reactions to disulfiram are associated with differences in enzyme activities.", "contents": "The role of plasma amine oxidase, platelet monoamine oxidase, and red cell catechol-O-methyl transferase in severe behavioral reactions to disulfiram. The authors assayed platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO), plasma amine oxidase (AO), and red cell catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) in 32 male alcoholics before they began disulfiram treatment. Seven subjects developed psychotic reactions to disulfiram; these 7 had significantly lower pretreatment MAO and AO levels and significantly higher COMT than the patients who had no adverse reactions to disulfiram, which suggests that severe behavioral reactions to disulfiram are associated with differences in enzyme activities.", "PMID": 434246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2091", "title": "State and trait in psychiatric practice.", "content": "The authors present a schema for conceptualizing psychiatric illness in terms of state and trait disorders. These disorders are relatively independent components, one or both of which can be present in one patient. They usually require treatment by different methods. State disorders, such as schizophrenic psychosis, mania, and depression, are time-limited and autonomous and respond better to pharmacological than psychosocial therapy. Trait disorders, such as neurotic and characterological disturbances, are long-lasting and respond better to psychosocial therapies. The authors discuss the implications of this schema for the integration of pharmacological and psychosocial treatments.", "contents": "State and trait in psychiatric practice. The authors present a schema for conceptualizing psychiatric illness in terms of state and trait disorders. These disorders are relatively independent components, one or both of which can be present in one patient. They usually require treatment by different methods. State disorders, such as schizophrenic psychosis, mania, and depression, are time-limited and autonomous and respond better to pharmacological than psychosocial therapy. Trait disorders, such as neurotic and characterological disturbances, are long-lasting and respond better to psychosocial therapies. The authors discuss the implications of this schema for the integration of pharmacological and psychosocial treatments.", "PMID": 434248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2092", "title": "Suicide among U.S. women physicians, 1967-1972.", "content": "The authors examined AMA records of the deaths of 751 women physicians during 1967-1972. Forty-nine (6.56%) committed suicide. The suicide rate for women physicians (40.7 per 100,000 per year) was higher than for men physicians and about four times that for white American women of the same age. From the known morbid risk for suicide among women with primary affective disorder, the authors calculated that about 65% of American women physicians have primary affective disorder.", "contents": "Suicide among U.S. women physicians, 1967-1972. The authors examined AMA records of the deaths of 751 women physicians during 1967-1972. Forty-nine (6.56%) committed suicide. The suicide rate for women physicians (40.7 per 100,000 per year) was higher than for men physicians and about four times that for white American women of the same age. From the known morbid risk for suicide among women with primary affective disorder, the authors calculated that about 65% of American women physicians have primary affective disorder.", "PMID": 434249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2093", "title": "An attempt to objectify the therapeutic process: a working model.", "content": "On the basis of their observations in daily psychoanalytic work the authors developed five objective criteria for \"bad\" analytic hours. These criteria involve affect, intellectualization, isolation, lack of feedback, and dissatisfaction. The authors developed a formulation to help them preconsciously recognize the presence of these factors during therapeutic work and found that it was helpful in turning a potentially bad hour into a productive one.", "contents": "An attempt to objectify the therapeutic process: a working model. On the basis of their observations in daily psychoanalytic work the authors developed five objective criteria for \"bad\" analytic hours. These criteria involve affect, intellectualization, isolation, lack of feedback, and dissatisfaction. The authors developed a formulation to help them preconsciously recognize the presence of these factors during therapeutic work and found that it was helpful in turning a potentially bad hour into a productive one.", "PMID": 434250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2094", "title": "Chlorimipramine therapy for obsessive-compulsive neurosis.", "content": "Twenty patients with a history of treatment-resistant obsessional neurosis underwent a 4-week clinical trial of chlorimipramine. Scores on the Psychiatric Questionnaire for Obsessive Compulsive Neurosis, the Leyton Obsessional Inventory, and 3 self-assessments indicated that although there was no significant change in obsessive ruminations, obsessive rituals, horrific temptations, or pervading doubt, there was a substantial significant improvement in the obsessive symptom item and severity of obsessions, as well as anxiety, depression, and phobia. Side effects were mild. The authors believe that chlorimipramine is the most promising treatment for obsessive-compulsive neurosis.", "contents": "Chlorimipramine therapy for obsessive-compulsive neurosis. Twenty patients with a history of treatment-resistant obsessional neurosis underwent a 4-week clinical trial of chlorimipramine. Scores on the Psychiatric Questionnaire for Obsessive Compulsive Neurosis, the Leyton Obsessional Inventory, and 3 self-assessments indicated that although there was no significant change in obsessive ruminations, obsessive rituals, horrific temptations, or pervading doubt, there was a substantial significant improvement in the obsessive symptom item and severity of obsessions, as well as anxiety, depression, and phobia. Side effects were mild. The authors believe that chlorimipramine is the most promising treatment for obsessive-compulsive neurosis.", "PMID": 434251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2095", "title": "Manic-depressive variant syndrome of childhood: a preliminary report.", "content": "The author describes the specific diagnostic entity of manic-depressive variant syndrome of childhood and outlines the five essential diagnostic criteria (affective storms, family history of significant affective dysfunction, hyperactivity, chronically disturbed personal relationships, and absence of psychotic thought disorder) and the five secondary criteria (sleep disturbances, minimal brain dysfunction, abnormal EEG, enuresis, and neuropathology). In the four cases reported, the children, when properly diagnosed, responded well to lithium therapy. The author points out the need for further study of this syndrome. Precautions about the use of lithium in children under age 12 are crucial, as is the need for continuing psychotherapy for parents and child.", "contents": "Manic-depressive variant syndrome of childhood: a preliminary report. The author describes the specific diagnostic entity of manic-depressive variant syndrome of childhood and outlines the five essential diagnostic criteria (affective storms, family history of significant affective dysfunction, hyperactivity, chronically disturbed personal relationships, and absence of psychotic thought disorder) and the five secondary criteria (sleep disturbances, minimal brain dysfunction, abnormal EEG, enuresis, and neuropathology). In the four cases reported, the children, when properly diagnosed, responded well to lithium therapy. The author points out the need for further study of this syndrome. Precautions about the use of lithium in children under age 12 are crucial, as is the need for continuing psychotherapy for parents and child.", "PMID": 434252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2096", "title": "The elective within the required psychiatric clerkship.", "content": "Two important goals of a successful psychiatric clerkship are to maximize students' responsibility and flexibility and to provide knowledge and skills relevant to their future careers. The author describes an elective program within the required medical school psychiatric clerkship that meets these criteria. On the basis of feedback from both students and staff, the author concludes that the advantages of the elective program to students, patients, faculty, and the department far outweigh the disadvantages.", "contents": "The elective within the required psychiatric clerkship. Two important goals of a successful psychiatric clerkship are to maximize students' responsibility and flexibility and to provide knowledge and skills relevant to their future careers. The author describes an elective program within the required medical school psychiatric clerkship that meets these criteria. On the basis of feedback from both students and staff, the author concludes that the advantages of the elective program to students, patients, faculty, and the department far outweigh the disadvantages.", "PMID": 434253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2097", "title": "The community meeting: a comparative study.", "content": "In this study of two identical open wards, the author found that in ward 1's highly structured meetings a higher proportion of patients participated, and they distributed their participation in more direct proportion to the relative numbers of each present than in the open meetings on ward 2, where patients directed their participation disproportionately to staff. Staff on both wards disproportionately directed their participation to patients, but less so in the structured meetings. The implications of these observations are discussed in terms of the executive ego deficits of the patients involved and their need for structure in the external milieu in order to compensate for these deficits.", "contents": "The community meeting: a comparative study. In this study of two identical open wards, the author found that in ward 1's highly structured meetings a higher proportion of patients participated, and they distributed their participation in more direct proportion to the relative numbers of each present than in the open meetings on ward 2, where patients directed their participation disproportionately to staff. Staff on both wards disproportionately directed their participation to patients, but less so in the structured meetings. The implications of these observations are discussed in terms of the executive ego deficits of the patients involved and their need for structure in the external milieu in order to compensate for these deficits.", "PMID": 434254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2098", "title": "Impacts of the medical malpractice slowdown in Los Angeles County: January 1976.", "content": "The Los Angeles County (California) physician strike of January 1976 resulted in a partial withdrawal of physician services. Among recorded impacts were a $17.5 million loss in hospital revenues and an $8.5 million pay loss for hospital employees. Several surveys revealed no evidence of a significant impact on the general public in finding medical care. Analysis of emergency room visits and paramedical ambulance calls showed no significant increases during the strike. County mortality statistics for the strike were not affected. Eighty-eight fatalities among 2,171 patients transferred during the strike were analyzed; a Case Attributable Mortality Probability generated on 21 cases selected for final review by a five-physician multispecialist panel indicated that 29 per cent of the Attributable Mortality could be ascribed to the strike itself and 71 per cent to ongoing \"patient dumping\" from private sector to County hospitals. Even if sample attributable mortality rates were generalized to overall county deaths, the resultant figures are below the estimated range of 55 to 153 deaths that did not occur because of the number of elective operations not performed secondary to the strike.", "contents": "Impacts of the medical malpractice slowdown in Los Angeles County: January 1976. The Los Angeles County (California) physician strike of January 1976 resulted in a partial withdrawal of physician services. Among recorded impacts were a $17.5 million loss in hospital revenues and an $8.5 million pay loss for hospital employees. Several surveys revealed no evidence of a significant impact on the general public in finding medical care. Analysis of emergency room visits and paramedical ambulance calls showed no significant increases during the strike. County mortality statistics for the strike were not affected. Eighty-eight fatalities among 2,171 patients transferred during the strike were analyzed; a Case Attributable Mortality Probability generated on 21 cases selected for final review by a five-physician multispecialist panel indicated that 29 per cent of the Attributable Mortality could be ascribed to the strike itself and 71 per cent to ongoing \"patient dumping\" from private sector to County hospitals. Even if sample attributable mortality rates were generalized to overall county deaths, the resultant figures are below the estimated range of 55 to 153 deaths that did not occur because of the number of elective operations not performed secondary to the strike.", "PMID": 434272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2099", "title": "Occupational health priorities for health standards: the current NIOSH approach.", "content": "Government agencies responsible for protecting the public from the adverse effects of toxic chemicals must set priorities for research, regulatory action, protocol testing, and monitoring due to the vast number of toxic chemicals and the limited resources available to these agencies. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) must set priorities for research on hazards encountered in the workplace. Priorities are also utilized by NIOSH in preparing criteria for recommended occupational standards which are forwarded to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Department of Labor, for possible promulgation. For various reasons, including rapidly changing conditions in the American workplace, NIOSH has instituted a revised priorities program. In the future, NIOSH research and recommended standards activities will focus not only on individual chemicals, but also on industries, occupations, chemical classes, and general industrial processes. NIOSH has also implemented a new program which will allow recommended control procedures for certain chemicals to be forwarded to OSHA in a shorter time period than has been experienced previously.", "contents": "Occupational health priorities for health standards: the current NIOSH approach. Government agencies responsible for protecting the public from the adverse effects of toxic chemicals must set priorities for research, regulatory action, protocol testing, and monitoring due to the vast number of toxic chemicals and the limited resources available to these agencies. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) must set priorities for research on hazards encountered in the workplace. Priorities are also utilized by NIOSH in preparing criteria for recommended occupational standards which are forwarded to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Department of Labor, for possible promulgation. For various reasons, including rapidly changing conditions in the American workplace, NIOSH has instituted a revised priorities program. In the future, NIOSH research and recommended standards activities will focus not only on individual chemicals, but also on industries, occupations, chemical classes, and general industrial processes. NIOSH has also implemented a new program which will allow recommended control procedures for certain chemicals to be forwarded to OSHA in a shorter time period than has been experienced previously.", "PMID": 434273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2100", "title": "Drowning and near-drowning involving children: a five-year total population study from the City and County of Honolulu.", "content": "A study of all serious childhood immersion accidents (both drowned and near-drowned cases) is reported from Hawaii. This is a total population-based survey of 140 consecutive cases (0--15 years) occurring during the five-year period (1973--1977. Age-specific, sex-specific, and osmolality-specific (salt versus fresh water) data are presented both for survivors and fatalities. The overall annual drowning rate of 3.1 per 100,000 children at risk is low, for a water-oriented society. The survival rate following loss of consciousness in the water is 73 per cent. There is no evidence from this study that osmolality affected the probability of survival. The rank order of importance of drowning sites is swimming pools, surf, sheltered salt water bathing, domestic bath tubs, fresh water streams, salt water canals, and garden fish ponds. Specific accident rates, by sex, outcome, and site of immersion are also presented. No secular trend in the rate of drowning was observed in this study. Comparison with the only other available total population survey (Australia) of childhood immersions reveals common epidemiological and demographic patterns in modern urban societies and suggests that safety regulations play a role in reducing swimming accidents and fatalities in children.", "contents": "Drowning and near-drowning involving children: a five-year total population study from the City and County of Honolulu. A study of all serious childhood immersion accidents (both drowned and near-drowned cases) is reported from Hawaii. This is a total population-based survey of 140 consecutive cases (0--15 years) occurring during the five-year period (1973--1977. Age-specific, sex-specific, and osmolality-specific (salt versus fresh water) data are presented both for survivors and fatalities. The overall annual drowning rate of 3.1 per 100,000 children at risk is low, for a water-oriented society. The survival rate following loss of consciousness in the water is 73 per cent. There is no evidence from this study that osmolality affected the probability of survival. The rank order of importance of drowning sites is swimming pools, surf, sheltered salt water bathing, domestic bath tubs, fresh water streams, salt water canals, and garden fish ponds. Specific accident rates, by sex, outcome, and site of immersion are also presented. No secular trend in the rate of drowning was observed in this study. Comparison with the only other available total population survey (Australia) of childhood immersions reveals common epidemiological and demographic patterns in modern urban societies and suggests that safety regulations play a role in reducing swimming accidents and fatalities in children.", "PMID": 434274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2101", "title": "Evaluation of the Tennessee Child Restraint Law.", "content": "In Tennessee a law came into force January 1, 1978 requiring parents to use child restraints properly when transporting their children who are less than four years old. Alternatively, the law permits children to be held in arms, a practice known to be hazardous rather than protective. Before and after the law went into force, observations were made of children in cars exiting from shopping centers in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee, and in Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky, an adjacent state not having a child restraint law. More than 80 per cent of Tennessee children observed in the fourth month the law was in force were not using child restraints anchored by seat belts, although use rates increased in Tennessee (8 to 16 per cent) to a greater extent than in Kentucky (11 to 15 per cent). Moreover, due to a large increase in children traveling in arms in Nashville, there was an increase in such travel in the two Tennessee cities studied (23 to 28 per cent) relative to a decrease in those studied in Kentucky (19 to 14 per cent).", "contents": "Evaluation of the Tennessee Child Restraint Law. In Tennessee a law came into force January 1, 1978 requiring parents to use child restraints properly when transporting their children who are less than four years old. Alternatively, the law permits children to be held in arms, a practice known to be hazardous rather than protective. Before and after the law went into force, observations were made of children in cars exiting from shopping centers in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee, and in Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky, an adjacent state not having a child restraint law. More than 80 per cent of Tennessee children observed in the fourth month the law was in force were not using child restraints anchored by seat belts, although use rates increased in Tennessee (8 to 16 per cent) to a greater extent than in Kentucky (11 to 15 per cent). Moreover, due to a large increase in children traveling in arms in Nashville, there was an increase in such travel in the two Tennessee cities studied (23 to 28 per cent) relative to a decrease in those studied in Kentucky (19 to 14 per cent).", "PMID": 434275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2102", "title": "Violent death in a metropolitan county: II. Changing patterns in suicides (1959-1974).", "content": "Suicide rates in Cuyahoga County (metropolitan Cleveland) rose from 10.2 in 1958 to 12.5 per 100,000 populations in 1974 (23 per cent increase) with the greatest rise among nonwhite males (from 5.9 to 13.1, or 122 per cent). Increased rates were observed in both the city (19 per cent increase) and suburbs (35 per cent increase). Rates increased among young non-white and white adults of both sexes aged 15--34 years, but decreased slightly among adults aged 65 years and older. These findings are consistent with national trends. Alcohol was present in the blood of one-fourth of the individuals who were \"dead on arrival,\" and at intoxicating levels in 20 per cent. There were increasing percentages of victims with positive blood alcohol and with intoxicating levels during the study period. White male victims in the city had significantly higher frequencies of such findings than their counterparts in the suburbs. The rates of suicide committed by firearms rose among all race-sex groups, with the greatest increase among city nonwhite males (2.1 to 7.7, or 267 per cent). Suicide by chemical agents (roughly one-half being barbiturates) increased in all groups except city nonwhite males, with the greatest increase among white males and suburban white females. Firearms among males and poisoning among females displaced asphyxia as the leading modes of suicide.", "contents": "Violent death in a metropolitan county: II. Changing patterns in suicides (1959-1974). Suicide rates in Cuyahoga County (metropolitan Cleveland) rose from 10.2 in 1958 to 12.5 per 100,000 populations in 1974 (23 per cent increase) with the greatest rise among nonwhite males (from 5.9 to 13.1, or 122 per cent). Increased rates were observed in both the city (19 per cent increase) and suburbs (35 per cent increase). Rates increased among young non-white and white adults of both sexes aged 15--34 years, but decreased slightly among adults aged 65 years and older. These findings are consistent with national trends. Alcohol was present in the blood of one-fourth of the individuals who were \"dead on arrival,\" and at intoxicating levels in 20 per cent. There were increasing percentages of victims with positive blood alcohol and with intoxicating levels during the study period. White male victims in the city had significantly higher frequencies of such findings than their counterparts in the suburbs. The rates of suicide committed by firearms rose among all race-sex groups, with the greatest increase among city nonwhite males (2.1 to 7.7, or 267 per cent). Suicide by chemical agents (roughly one-half being barbiturates) increased in all groups except city nonwhite males, with the greatest increase among white males and suburban white females. Firearms among males and poisoning among females displaced asphyxia as the leading modes of suicide.", "PMID": 434276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2103", "title": "The effect of outreach workers' educational efforts on disadvantaged preschool children's use of preventive services.", "content": "A special program of outreach services was implemented to assist a poverty population to appropriately use health services in the Kaiser-Permanente Medical Care Program. A study was conducted to determine the effect of outreach workers' intervention on the use of preventive services by this population. Intially, families were divided into two groups, one with and one without outreach workers. Outreach workers (neighborhood health coordinators) were trained in prevention and health education. They were then assigned to specific subgroups of the poverty population to teach the importance of preventive services and to motivate persons to use these services. This paper focuses on the effect of outreach workers' services on the use of selected preventive care services (immunizations and tine test) by preschool children from poverty families. Preschool children in families with coordinator services had higher use rates for preventive care. The sub-group for which outreach workers were specially trained to focus on preventive procedures for the pre-school group had markedly higher use rates for preventive care. The findings suggest that special intervention programs, using indigenous and nonprofessional outreach workers, can increase preventive service utilization by poverty groups.", "contents": "The effect of outreach workers' educational efforts on disadvantaged preschool children's use of preventive services. A special program of outreach services was implemented to assist a poverty population to appropriately use health services in the Kaiser-Permanente Medical Care Program. A study was conducted to determine the effect of outreach workers' intervention on the use of preventive services by this population. Intially, families were divided into two groups, one with and one without outreach workers. Outreach workers (neighborhood health coordinators) were trained in prevention and health education. They were then assigned to specific subgroups of the poverty population to teach the importance of preventive services and to motivate persons to use these services. This paper focuses on the effect of outreach workers' services on the use of selected preventive care services (immunizations and tine test) by preschool children from poverty families. Preschool children in families with coordinator services had higher use rates for preventive care. The sub-group for which outreach workers were specially trained to focus on preventive procedures for the pre-school group had markedly higher use rates for preventive care. The findings suggest that special intervention programs, using indigenous and nonprofessional outreach workers, can increase preventive service utilization by poverty groups.", "PMID": 434277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2104", "title": "Evaluation of an automated blood pressure measuring device intended for general public use.", "content": "Responding to Chicago newspaper reports, measurements of blood pressure by a publicly available, automated coin-operated device were compared with those of human observers using the standard cuff and auscultatory technique. One machine was examined in the laboratory, and eight others at randomly selected sites. Analysis of readings made on 100 persons in the laboratory and 227 in the field led to the following conclusions: 1) On the average, the machines measured fifth phase diastolic blood pressure at nearly the same level as did human observers; 2) The machines were more variable measuring systolic blood pressure with four differing from the average human reading by 1mm Hg or less, but two differing by 8mm Hg or more; 3) The agreement between machine-human pairs of readings was not as good as between human-human pairs, but the differences in level of agreement--both in determining the actual value and in categorizing the values as normal, borderline, or high--were small and have little practical importance; 4) Linear regression analyses of the relationship between simultaneously determined machine and human readings indicated that the average human-machine difference was the same over the range of pressures tested. Publicly available blood pressure measuring devices should be labeled concerning their purposes, capabilities, and limitations. Rules and regulations governing their use in the City of Chicago are being prepared by this city's Legal Department.", "contents": "Evaluation of an automated blood pressure measuring device intended for general public use. Responding to Chicago newspaper reports, measurements of blood pressure by a publicly available, automated coin-operated device were compared with those of human observers using the standard cuff and auscultatory technique. One machine was examined in the laboratory, and eight others at randomly selected sites. Analysis of readings made on 100 persons in the laboratory and 227 in the field led to the following conclusions: 1) On the average, the machines measured fifth phase diastolic blood pressure at nearly the same level as did human observers; 2) The machines were more variable measuring systolic blood pressure with four differing from the average human reading by 1mm Hg or less, but two differing by 8mm Hg or more; 3) The agreement between machine-human pairs of readings was not as good as between human-human pairs, but the differences in level of agreement--both in determining the actual value and in categorizing the values as normal, borderline, or high--were small and have little practical importance; 4) Linear regression analyses of the relationship between simultaneously determined machine and human readings indicated that the average human-machine difference was the same over the range of pressures tested. Publicly available blood pressure measuring devices should be labeled concerning their purposes, capabilities, and limitations. Rules and regulations governing their use in the City of Chicago are being prepared by this city's Legal Department.", "PMID": 434278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2105", "title": "Patterns of reported rape in a tri-ethnic population: Houston, Texas, 1974--1975.", "content": "Police records of reported rape, compiled for the Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Reports, in Houston, Texas for 1974 and 1975, were analyzed in relation to ethnicity and age of victim/offender, and time and place of occurrence. Blacks had the highest race-specific rates for both victims and offenders; the majority of all rapes were intraracial. The high-risk age group for both victims and offenders was from 20 to 24 years. Rapes increased slightly during the summer months, peaked during the hours of darkness, and were fairly evenly distributed among the days of the week. The weekend calculated as from 4:00 pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday accounted for 43.6 per cent of all rape occurrences. The majority of rape events involved the use of a lethal weapon and took place in a residence.", "contents": "Patterns of reported rape in a tri-ethnic population: Houston, Texas, 1974--1975. Police records of reported rape, compiled for the Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Reports, in Houston, Texas for 1974 and 1975, were analyzed in relation to ethnicity and age of victim/offender, and time and place of occurrence. Blacks had the highest race-specific rates for both victims and offenders; the majority of all rapes were intraracial. The high-risk age group for both victims and offenders was from 20 to 24 years. Rapes increased slightly during the summer months, peaked during the hours of darkness, and were fairly evenly distributed among the days of the week. The weekend calculated as from 4:00 pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday accounted for 43.6 per cent of all rape occurrences. The majority of rape events involved the use of a lethal weapon and took place in a residence.", "PMID": 434279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2106", "title": "Interviewer effects in psychiatric epidemiology: a study of medical and lay interviewers and their impact on reported symptoms.", "content": "Utilizing data from a field study of psychiatric disorder, the study examined sex differences in patterns of response to interviewers in contrasting status positions. The dependent variables in the analysis were mean scores on nosological scales measuring three dimensions of symptomotology identified in a factor analysis. Independent variables were interviewer status and respondent sex. Three categories of interviewers were randomly assigned to administer a structured interview schedule. Strong interaction effects between interviewer status and respondent sex were noted. Women disclosed significantly fewer symptoms to the high status interviewers (identified physicians), whereas males reported most symptoms to this group. Theoretical explanations derived from the literature on sex roles were offered regarding the origins of women's response to high status figures.", "contents": "Interviewer effects in psychiatric epidemiology: a study of medical and lay interviewers and their impact on reported symptoms. Utilizing data from a field study of psychiatric disorder, the study examined sex differences in patterns of response to interviewers in contrasting status positions. The dependent variables in the analysis were mean scores on nosological scales measuring three dimensions of symptomotology identified in a factor analysis. Independent variables were interviewer status and respondent sex. Three categories of interviewers were randomly assigned to administer a structured interview schedule. Strong interaction effects between interviewer status and respondent sex were noted. Women disclosed significantly fewer symptoms to the high status interviewers (identified physicians), whereas males reported most symptoms to this group. Theoretical explanations derived from the literature on sex roles were offered regarding the origins of women's response to high status figures.", "PMID": 434280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2107", "title": "The U.S. hospice movement: issues in development.", "content": "A grass-roots hospice care movement is underway in the United States modeled after recently popularized British hospice programs. Hospice care is intended to help the terminally ill maintain a personally acceptable quality of life until death. Attention should be given to ensuring the future viability of this service option by allowing for experimentation with and adaptation of existing models, and by integrating it with the overall health care system. Issues to be considered in integrating hospice care include utilization of existing resources, regional planning, standards and licensure, and reimbursement opportunities. Although hospice care may not have an immediate cost savings impact on the health care system, it could develop this capacity in the future. Such impact would not only assure a stable financial base for hospice care but would also affect bed use generally. Continuing dialogue among providers, consumers, and policy makers of various backgrounds is necessary to the effective and appropriate development of hospice care in the U.S.", "contents": "The U.S. hospice movement: issues in development. A grass-roots hospice care movement is underway in the United States modeled after recently popularized British hospice programs. Hospice care is intended to help the terminally ill maintain a personally acceptable quality of life until death. Attention should be given to ensuring the future viability of this service option by allowing for experimentation with and adaptation of existing models, and by integrating it with the overall health care system. Issues to be considered in integrating hospice care include utilization of existing resources, regional planning, standards and licensure, and reimbursement opportunities. Although hospice care may not have an immediate cost savings impact on the health care system, it could develop this capacity in the future. Such impact would not only assure a stable financial base for hospice care but would also affect bed use generally. Continuing dialogue among providers, consumers, and policy makers of various backgrounds is necessary to the effective and appropriate development of hospice care in the U.S.", "PMID": 434281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2108", "title": "Prenatal monitoring in upstate New York.", "content": "In upstate New York, birth certificates of all babies born in hospitals include response to a question on procedures used in fetal monitoring. During the first six months of 1978, some form of monitoring was reported on 47 per cent of all live births in hospitals, 33.6 per cent being monitored externally. The primary cesarean section rate in monitored women was over twice that among those not monitored.", "contents": "Prenatal monitoring in upstate New York. In upstate New York, birth certificates of all babies born in hospitals include response to a question on procedures used in fetal monitoring. During the first six months of 1978, some form of monitoring was reported on 47 per cent of all live births in hospitals, 33.6 per cent being monitored externally. The primary cesarean section rate in monitored women was over twice that among those not monitored.", "PMID": 434282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2109", "title": "Causes of death among laundry and dry cleaning workers.", "content": "To make a preliminary determination as to whether a potential health hazard exists for workers exposed to dry cleaning solvents (carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, and tetrachloroethylene), we analyzed the causes of death of 330 deceased laundry and dry cleaning workers by the proportionate mortality method. The increased risk for malignant neoplasms resulted primarily from an excess of lung and cervical cancer and slight excesses of leukemia and liver cancer. Although the number of deaths was small, the increased risk of cancer noted in this investigation underscores the need for additional epidemiologic studies of this occupational group.", "contents": "Causes of death among laundry and dry cleaning workers. To make a preliminary determination as to whether a potential health hazard exists for workers exposed to dry cleaning solvents (carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, and tetrachloroethylene), we analyzed the causes of death of 330 deceased laundry and dry cleaning workers by the proportionate mortality method. The increased risk for malignant neoplasms resulted primarily from an excess of lung and cervical cancer and slight excesses of leukemia and liver cancer. Although the number of deaths was small, the increased risk of cancer noted in this investigation underscores the need for additional epidemiologic studies of this occupational group.", "PMID": 434285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2110", "title": "Aging of the rotator cuff.", "content": "The many years of challenge in treating athletes disabled by tendinitis stimulated a study of the aging of tendons. Autopsy specimens, representing tendons from 20-, 50-, and 70-year-old subjects, were obtained. Each specimen, consisting of a wedge of the greater tuberosity with the attached supraspinatus tendon, was examined roentgenographically to study the morphologic features of the greater tuberosity and was decalcified and stained with Safranin O to evaluate the amount of fibro-cartilage, with van Gieson to identify Sharpey's fibers, and with hematoxylin and eosin to determine cellularity, fiber integrity, and vascularity of the tendon. The comparison related to chronological age documented a morphologic change of the greater tuberosity and progressive degeneration of all elements of the tendinous structures with progressive (1) osteitis of the greater tuberosity, cystic degeneration, and irregularity of the cortical margin; (2) degenerative sulcus between the greater tuberosity and the articular surface; (3) disruption of the integrity of the attachment of the tendon to the bone by Sharpey's fibers; (4) loss of cellularity, loss of staining quality, and fragmentation of the tendon; (5) diminution of the vascularity of the tendon; and (6) diminution of fibrocartilage.", "contents": "Aging of the rotator cuff. The many years of challenge in treating athletes disabled by tendinitis stimulated a study of the aging of tendons. Autopsy specimens, representing tendons from 20-, 50-, and 70-year-old subjects, were obtained. Each specimen, consisting of a wedge of the greater tuberosity with the attached supraspinatus tendon, was examined roentgenographically to study the morphologic features of the greater tuberosity and was decalcified and stained with Safranin O to evaluate the amount of fibro-cartilage, with van Gieson to identify Sharpey's fibers, and with hematoxylin and eosin to determine cellularity, fiber integrity, and vascularity of the tendon. The comparison related to chronological age documented a morphologic change of the greater tuberosity and progressive degeneration of all elements of the tendinous structures with progressive (1) osteitis of the greater tuberosity, cystic degeneration, and irregularity of the cortical margin; (2) degenerative sulcus between the greater tuberosity and the articular surface; (3) disruption of the integrity of the attachment of the tendon to the bone by Sharpey's fibers; (4) loss of cellularity, loss of staining quality, and fragmentation of the tendon; (5) diminution of the vascularity of the tendon; and (6) diminution of fibrocartilage.", "PMID": 434288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2111", "title": "Spectrum of lesions of the anterior capsular mechanism of the shoulder.", "content": "The anterior capsular mechanism appears to be the common denominator in a number of shoulder problems ranging from the recurrent dislocation (\"too loose\") to the frozen shoulder (\"too tight\"). The shoulder region and the anterior capsular mechanism can be carefully and accurately assessed by arthrography and cineradiography. Bicipital tenosynovitis has been held accountable for shoulder problems at each extreme of the spectrum. Bicipital tenosynovitis may exist in many shoulders; however, in corrective procedures for the unstable shoulder, the biceps becomes a dynamic reinforcement of the anterior capsule. In the frozen shoulder, the biceps tendon frequently is seen as normal at surgery and the anterior capsular mechanism is identified as the site of the essential lesion. Surgery may switch the patient's problem from one side of the spectrum to the other. Shoulder problems should be investigated thoroughly and evaluated in terms of the patient's requirements for shoulder motion as well as in terms of the orthopaedic surgeon's usual criteria for recommending corrective procedures.", "contents": "Spectrum of lesions of the anterior capsular mechanism of the shoulder. The anterior capsular mechanism appears to be the common denominator in a number of shoulder problems ranging from the recurrent dislocation (\"too loose\") to the frozen shoulder (\"too tight\"). The shoulder region and the anterior capsular mechanism can be carefully and accurately assessed by arthrography and cineradiography. Bicipital tenosynovitis has been held accountable for shoulder problems at each extreme of the spectrum. Bicipital tenosynovitis may exist in many shoulders; however, in corrective procedures for the unstable shoulder, the biceps becomes a dynamic reinforcement of the anterior capsule. In the frozen shoulder, the biceps tendon frequently is seen as normal at surgery and the anterior capsular mechanism is identified as the site of the essential lesion. Surgery may switch the patient's problem from one side of the spectrum to the other. Shoulder problems should be investigated thoroughly and evaluated in terms of the patient's requirements for shoulder motion as well as in terms of the orthopaedic surgeon's usual criteria for recommending corrective procedures.", "PMID": 434289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2112", "title": "Hypotrophy of the soleus muscle in man after achilles tendon rupture. Discussion of findings obtained by computed tomography and morphologic studies.", "content": "Seven athletes (age range, 35 to 43 years), who sustained total subcutaneous ruptures of the Achilles tendon 2 to 5 cm above its distal insertion, were treated surgically with suturing of the tendon, immobilization of the leg and foot for 6 weeks, and cast changes so as to increase the dorsiflexion of the foot. Needle biopsies were obtained several times from the soleus muscles of both the injured and uninjured legs at a depth of about 5 cm. The cross-sectional area was measured by computed tomography at the same level the tissue was obtained by biopsy. Results of morphologic studies revealed a selective Type I fiber atrophy of the soleus muscle. Computed tomography revealed a 23% decrease in the area of the calf muscles and a 11% total reduction in the cross-sectional area of the calf (about the middle, where the gastrocnemius muscle is transformed into a tendon and where the soleus lies superficially). Mere measurement of the circumference of the calf is judged to be a poor criterion of muscle atrophy when compared with these other means of evaluation of atrophy. The evidence compiled during this study suggests that prompt surgical treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures, with cast changes several times during the period of immobilization and with tension maintained on the muscle, is the most effective treatment regimen we have found for this injury.", "contents": "Hypotrophy of the soleus muscle in man after achilles tendon rupture. Discussion of findings obtained by computed tomography and morphologic studies. Seven athletes (age range, 35 to 43 years), who sustained total subcutaneous ruptures of the Achilles tendon 2 to 5 cm above its distal insertion, were treated surgically with suturing of the tendon, immobilization of the leg and foot for 6 weeks, and cast changes so as to increase the dorsiflexion of the foot. Needle biopsies were obtained several times from the soleus muscles of both the injured and uninjured legs at a depth of about 5 cm. The cross-sectional area was measured by computed tomography at the same level the tissue was obtained by biopsy. Results of morphologic studies revealed a selective Type I fiber atrophy of the soleus muscle. Computed tomography revealed a 23% decrease in the area of the calf muscles and a 11% total reduction in the cross-sectional area of the calf (about the middle, where the gastrocnemius muscle is transformed into a tendon and where the soleus lies superficially). Mere measurement of the circumference of the calf is judged to be a poor criterion of muscle atrophy when compared with these other means of evaluation of atrophy. The evidence compiled during this study suggests that prompt surgical treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures, with cast changes several times during the period of immobilization and with tension maintained on the muscle, is the most effective treatment regimen we have found for this injury.", "PMID": 434290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2113", "title": "National football head and neck injury registry: report on cervical quadriplegia, 1971 to 1975.", "content": "Data on cervical spine injuries resulting from participation in football have been compiled by a national registry established in 1975. Information has been collected retrospectively by defined criteria since 1971. Efforts have been made to establish the mechanism of injury responsible in the majority of instances on the basis of epidemiologic evidence and recognized biomechanical principles. During the 5-year period, 77 deaths resulted from severe neck injuries. During this period, 1,275,000 players were exposed. Ninety-nine cervical fracture-dislocations resulting in permanent quadriplegia and 259 cervical fractures-dislocations occurred. There may be a \"trend\" towards an increase in permanent quadriplegia resulting from serious cervical spine injuries sustained while playing football. Apparently, the cause can be attributed to the helmet-face mask that has encouraged the use of the head as the primary point of contact in blocking, tackling, and head butting. The figures clearly identify defensive backs, linebackers, or specialty team members making tackles by using the head as the initial point of contact, as the individuals at greatest risk to sustain cervical spine injuries resulting in permanent quadriplegia.", "contents": "National football head and neck injury registry: report on cervical quadriplegia, 1971 to 1975. Data on cervical spine injuries resulting from participation in football have been compiled by a national registry established in 1975. Information has been collected retrospectively by defined criteria since 1971. Efforts have been made to establish the mechanism of injury responsible in the majority of instances on the basis of epidemiologic evidence and recognized biomechanical principles. During the 5-year period, 77 deaths resulted from severe neck injuries. During this period, 1,275,000 players were exposed. Ninety-nine cervical fracture-dislocations resulting in permanent quadriplegia and 259 cervical fractures-dislocations occurred. There may be a \"trend\" towards an increase in permanent quadriplegia resulting from serious cervical spine injuries sustained while playing football. Apparently, the cause can be attributed to the helmet-face mask that has encouraged the use of the head as the primary point of contact in blocking, tackling, and head butting. The figures clearly identify defensive backs, linebackers, or specialty team members making tackles by using the head as the initial point of contact, as the individuals at greatest risk to sustain cervical spine injuries resulting in permanent quadriplegia.", "PMID": 434291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2114", "title": "Skin sensitivity of adults on the Isthmus of Panama to Mycobacterium xenopi sensitin.", "content": "A group of 106 adult Panamanian men were skin tested with a standard human tuberculin (RT 23) and three sensitins prepared from atypical mycobacteria. Two of the sensitins (prepared from Mycobacterium kansasii and Battey organism) are commonly used to detect atypical mycobacterial infections. The third (prepared from M. xenopi) had not been used in Panama previously. Skin sensitivity proved to be significantly higher to the M. xenopi sensitin than to the others. The known epidemiology of M. xenopi is briefly reviewed.", "contents": "Skin sensitivity of adults on the Isthmus of Panama to Mycobacterium xenopi sensitin. A group of 106 adult Panamanian men were skin tested with a standard human tuberculin (RT 23) and three sensitins prepared from atypical mycobacteria. Two of the sensitins (prepared from Mycobacterium kansasii and Battey organism) are commonly used to detect atypical mycobacterial infections. The third (prepared from M. xenopi) had not been used in Panama previously. Skin sensitivity proved to be significantly higher to the M. xenopi sensitin than to the others. The known epidemiology of M. xenopi is briefly reviewed.", "PMID": 434302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2115", "title": "Occurrence of antibodies to Brucella canis in rural inhabitants of Corrientes and Neuqu\u00e9n Provinces, Argentina.", "content": "Of 1,065 persons sampled during a house-to-house survey of an area of the Department of Curuz\u00fa Cuati\u00e1, Province of Corrientes, Argentina, 21 were seropositive to Brucella canis antibodies by the gel-diffusion test, using a saline-extracted B. ovis surface R antigen. Two positive reactors were similarly identified during a survey of rural schools in the Province of Neuqu\u00e9n, which included 887 persons. The findings are discussed in terms of current knowledge of this recently recognized zoonotic infection.", "contents": "Occurrence of antibodies to Brucella canis in rural inhabitants of Corrientes and Neuqu\u00e9n Provinces, Argentina. Of 1,065 persons sampled during a house-to-house survey of an area of the Department of Curuz\u00fa Cuati\u00e1, Province of Corrientes, Argentina, 21 were seropositive to Brucella canis antibodies by the gel-diffusion test, using a saline-extracted B. ovis surface R antigen. Two positive reactors were similarly identified during a survey of rural schools in the Province of Neuqu\u00e9n, which included 887 persons. The findings are discussed in terms of current knowledge of this recently recognized zoonotic infection.", "PMID": 434303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2116", "title": "Secondary reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament in athletes by using the semitendinosus tendon. Preliminary report of 78 cases.", "content": "Secondary reconstruction of the torn anterior cruciate ligament has been accomplished by semitendinosus tenodesis in 78 athletes (average age, 20 years; range, 13 to 45 years old). This series was limited to patients who had isolated tears of the ligament or tears of the anterior cruciate ligament associated with tears of one or both menisci. Meniscectomies were performed in 71 knees and reefing of the posteromedial capsular ligament in 35 knees. After an average of 11 months of follow-up (range, 6 to 29 months postoperatively), 67 (86%) of the patients have obtained significant improvement (0 to 1+ on a scale of 0 to 3+) in anteroposterior and anteromedial rotational instability of the joint. The viability and function of the reconstructed ligament was confirmed by direct visualization in three patients at 12, 25 and 26 months postoperatively. Reefing of the posteromedial capsular ligament appears to increase anteromedial rotation stability. This series will be expanded and the follow-up evaluations will continue over a period of years in an effort to determine whether or not semitendinosus tenodesis is superior to other methods of intraarticular reconstruction for a torn anterior cruciate ligament.", "contents": "Secondary reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament in athletes by using the semitendinosus tendon. Preliminary report of 78 cases. Secondary reconstruction of the torn anterior cruciate ligament has been accomplished by semitendinosus tenodesis in 78 athletes (average age, 20 years; range, 13 to 45 years old). This series was limited to patients who had isolated tears of the ligament or tears of the anterior cruciate ligament associated with tears of one or both menisci. Meniscectomies were performed in 71 knees and reefing of the posteromedial capsular ligament in 35 knees. After an average of 11 months of follow-up (range, 6 to 29 months postoperatively), 67 (86%) of the patients have obtained significant improvement (0 to 1+ on a scale of 0 to 3+) in anteroposterior and anteromedial rotational instability of the joint. The viability and function of the reconstructed ligament was confirmed by direct visualization in three patients at 12, 25 and 26 months postoperatively. Reefing of the posteromedial capsular ligament appears to increase anteromedial rotation stability. This series will be expanded and the follow-up evaluations will continue over a period of years in an effort to determine whether or not semitendinosus tenodesis is superior to other methods of intraarticular reconstruction for a torn anterior cruciate ligament.", "PMID": 434299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2117", "title": "St. Louis encephalitis: the Chicago experience.", "content": "The largest laboratory-documented outbreak of St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) in the United States occurred in the Chicago metropolitan area in the summer and early fall of 1975. Of 1,456 illnesses investigated, 326 cases of confirmed or probable SLE and 420 cases of suspected SLE were found in the six-county area. The outbreak peaked in early September, but cases continued to occur through October. Cases clustered geographically in the southwestern suburbs. There was a direct correlation between age and attack rate, severity of illness, and mortality rate--all of which increased with successive age groups. Thirty-six persons died. Males and females were equally affected. This epidemic marked the first time that St. Louis encephalitis has been documented in the Chicago area.", "contents": "St. Louis encephalitis: the Chicago experience. The largest laboratory-documented outbreak of St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) in the United States occurred in the Chicago metropolitan area in the summer and early fall of 1975. Of 1,456 illnesses investigated, 326 cases of confirmed or probable SLE and 420 cases of suspected SLE were found in the six-county area. The outbreak peaked in early September, but cases continued to occur through October. Cases clustered geographically in the southwestern suburbs. There was a direct correlation between age and attack rate, severity of illness, and mortality rate--all of which increased with successive age groups. Thirty-six persons died. Males and females were equally affected. This epidemic marked the first time that St. Louis encephalitis has been documented in the Chicago area.", "PMID": 434304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2118", "title": "Transovarial transmission of yellow fever virus by mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti).", "content": "Female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes infected with yellow fever virus by intrathoracic inoculation transmitted the virus to a small percentage of their F1 progeny. Infected offspring were obtained from surface-sterilized as well as from untreated eggs, indicating that the virus was transovarially transmitted. Vertical transmission of yellow fever virus in mosquitoes may be an alternative mechanism for biological survival of the virus during adverse periods or in the absence of susceptible vertebrate hosts.", "contents": "Transovarial transmission of yellow fever virus by mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti). Female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes infected with yellow fever virus by intrathoracic inoculation transmitted the virus to a small percentage of their F1 progeny. Infected offspring were obtained from surface-sterilized as well as from untreated eggs, indicating that the virus was transovarially transmitted. Vertical transmission of yellow fever virus in mosquitoes may be an alternative mechanism for biological survival of the virus during adverse periods or in the absence of susceptible vertebrate hosts.", "PMID": 434305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2119", "title": "Proximal diaphyseal fractures of the fifth metatarsal--treatment of the fractures and their complications in athletes.", "content": "Twenty-one patients (age range, 15 to 26; 18 patients 15 to 20 years old) had proximal diaphyseal fractures of the fifth metatarsal. Clinical records and radiographs for all patients were available for review. Patient treatment had been individualized and included several methods, including rest, plaster immobilization, and bone grafting. Twenty of the 21 patients were boys or men participating in athletics. Nine of the 21 fractures and 8 of the reinjuries were sustained while playing basketball. Healing required a minimum of 3 months (with bone graft) and some fractures were not radiographically healed at 20 months, although the patients were clinically asymptomatic. The fracture of the proximal shaft of the fifth metatarsal, particularly the 1.5-cm segment distal to the tuberosity, is a troublesome injury in the active athlete. The clinical course does not appear to be influenced by the usual initial conservative treatment modalities, although many of these fractures will heal if the athlete is willing to restrict activities for a prolonged period of time. In this series, bone grafting with a tibial corticocancellous graft after thorough curettage of sclerotic bone obliterating the medullary canal was the most effective treatment modality for delayed union.", "contents": "Proximal diaphyseal fractures of the fifth metatarsal--treatment of the fractures and their complications in athletes. Twenty-one patients (age range, 15 to 26; 18 patients 15 to 20 years old) had proximal diaphyseal fractures of the fifth metatarsal. Clinical records and radiographs for all patients were available for review. Patient treatment had been individualized and included several methods, including rest, plaster immobilization, and bone grafting. Twenty of the 21 patients were boys or men participating in athletics. Nine of the 21 fractures and 8 of the reinjuries were sustained while playing basketball. Healing required a minimum of 3 months (with bone graft) and some fractures were not radiographically healed at 20 months, although the patients were clinically asymptomatic. The fracture of the proximal shaft of the fifth metatarsal, particularly the 1.5-cm segment distal to the tuberosity, is a troublesome injury in the active athlete. The clinical course does not appear to be influenced by the usual initial conservative treatment modalities, although many of these fractures will heal if the athlete is willing to restrict activities for a prolonged period of time. In this series, bone grafting with a tibial corticocancellous graft after thorough curettage of sclerotic bone obliterating the medullary canal was the most effective treatment modality for delayed union.", "PMID": 434301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2120", "title": "Computer simulation of the effectiveness of male-linked translocations for the control of Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann.", "content": "A deterministic simulation model was used to establish the potential value of releasing male-linked translocation heterozygotes as a control measure for Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann. Theoretical population reductions exceeding 90% were obtained within 90 and 120 days after releases at initial ratios of 5 translocation males (TM): 1 normal male (NM) and 1 TM: 1 NM, respectively. Additional simulations emphasized the importance of the need for a method that would eliminate females from the release material. Releases containing 15% females were less effective than those with none. When a malaria subroutine was included in the model, the calculations showed that all the theoretical releases greatly reduced the number of malaria-infective females and therefore would have a profound effect on transmission of the disease. The number of malaria-infective females present was eliminated completely when only translocation males were released; however, a small number were present when the releases contained 15% females. Male-linked translocation males required longer periods of time to bring about population control than males that were completely sterile.", "contents": "Computer simulation of the effectiveness of male-linked translocations for the control of Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann. A deterministic simulation model was used to establish the potential value of releasing male-linked translocation heterozygotes as a control measure for Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann. Theoretical population reductions exceeding 90% were obtained within 90 and 120 days after releases at initial ratios of 5 translocation males (TM): 1 normal male (NM) and 1 TM: 1 NM, respectively. Additional simulations emphasized the importance of the need for a method that would eliminate females from the release material. Releases containing 15% females were less effective than those with none. When a malaria subroutine was included in the model, the calculations showed that all the theoretical releases greatly reduced the number of malaria-infective females and therefore would have a profound effect on transmission of the disease. The number of malaria-infective females present was eliminated completely when only translocation males were released; however, a small number were present when the releases contained 15% females. Male-linked translocation males required longer periods of time to bring about population control than males that were completely sterile.", "PMID": 434306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2121", "title": "Gnathostoma spinigerum from the cervix of a woman in Jakarta.", "content": "A male Gnathostoma spinigerum was removed from the cervix of a 29-year-old Jakarta resident who suffered from chronic cervicitis. The worm was 6.7 mm in length and had eight rows of spines on the cephalic bulb. This is the third case of gnathostomiasis reported from Indonesia.", "contents": "Gnathostoma spinigerum from the cervix of a woman in Jakarta. A male Gnathostoma spinigerum was removed from the cervix of a 29-year-old Jakarta resident who suffered from chronic cervicitis. The worm was 6.7 mm in length and had eight rows of spines on the cephalic bulb. This is the third case of gnathostomiasis reported from Indonesia.", "PMID": 434307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2122", "title": "Wild reservoirs of Schistosoma mansoni from Caratinga, an endemic schistosomiasis area of Minas Gerais State, Brazil.", "content": "Among 472 small mammals trapped in the Caratinga area of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Schistosoma mansoni infection was demonstrated in 6 of 9 Procyon, 1 of 7 Didelphis, 1 of 1 Philander, 25 of 72 Nectomys, and 16 of 383 various other rodents representing 20 species. The role of Nectomys and Procyon in maintaining endemicity needs further investigation.", "contents": "Wild reservoirs of Schistosoma mansoni from Caratinga, an endemic schistosomiasis area of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Among 472 small mammals trapped in the Caratinga area of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Schistosoma mansoni infection was demonstrated in 6 of 9 Procyon, 1 of 7 Didelphis, 1 of 1 Philander, 25 of 72 Nectomys, and 16 of 383 various other rodents representing 20 species. The role of Nectomys and Procyon in maintaining endemicity needs further investigation.", "PMID": 434308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2123", "title": "Clinical manifestations of cobra bite in the Thai farmer.", "content": "Twenty cases of cobra bite in farmers from the central region of Thailand are reported. Ptosis is the earliest sign of cobra bite and is an important diagnostic indication of systemic poisoning. Restlessness, irregular breathing and mental confusion are warning signs of respiratory paralysis. Antivenom for cobra bite was administered intravenously together with symptomatic and supportive treatment; 19 patients survived and 1 died from cerebral anoxia.", "contents": "Clinical manifestations of cobra bite in the Thai farmer. Twenty cases of cobra bite in farmers from the central region of Thailand are reported. Ptosis is the earliest sign of cobra bite and is an important diagnostic indication of systemic poisoning. Restlessness, irregular breathing and mental confusion are warning signs of respiratory paralysis. Antivenom for cobra bite was administered intravenously together with symptomatic and supportive treatment; 19 patients survived and 1 died from cerebral anoxia.", "PMID": 434309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2124", "title": "Giardiasis in infancy and childhood: a prospective study of 160 cases with comparison of quinacrine (Atabrine) and metronidazole (Flagyl).", "content": "The therapeutic effects of quinacrine (Atabrine) and metronidazole (Flagyl) were compared in a 3-year prospective study of 160 infants and children (86 boys and 74 girls ranging in age from 4.5 months to 13 years) with giardiasis. The most common symptom was recurrent abdominal pain. In each study group stool examinations were done 5 days, 1 month, and 6 months after treatment. There were no treatment failures with metronidazole, whereas four of those treated with quinacrine had positive stools 5 days after treatment, indicating possible failure. There were no recurrences at 1 month; after 6 months, however, Giardia infection was found in 13% of both treatment groups. These recurrences were seen mainly in children from families with other infected members. Considering the low failure rate, the minimal side effects, and the relatively more tolerable flavor, metronidazole seems to be preferrable in the treatment of giardiasis. A dosage of 15-25 mg/kg a day for 5 days is recommended.", "contents": "Giardiasis in infancy and childhood: a prospective study of 160 cases with comparison of quinacrine (Atabrine) and metronidazole (Flagyl). The therapeutic effects of quinacrine (Atabrine) and metronidazole (Flagyl) were compared in a 3-year prospective study of 160 infants and children (86 boys and 74 girls ranging in age from 4.5 months to 13 years) with giardiasis. The most common symptom was recurrent abdominal pain. In each study group stool examinations were done 5 days, 1 month, and 6 months after treatment. There were no treatment failures with metronidazole, whereas four of those treated with quinacrine had positive stools 5 days after treatment, indicating possible failure. There were no recurrences at 1 month; after 6 months, however, Giardia infection was found in 13% of both treatment groups. These recurrences were seen mainly in children from families with other infected members. Considering the low failure rate, the minimal side effects, and the relatively more tolerable flavor, metronidazole seems to be preferrable in the treatment of giardiasis. A dosage of 15-25 mg/kg a day for 5 days is recommended.", "PMID": 434310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2125", "title": "Clinical, serologic, and epidemiologic characteristics of ocular toxocariasis.", "content": "The clinical, serologic, and epidemiologic characteristics of 17 cases of ocular toxocariasis (OT) were studied and compared with those of a control group of 15 cases of other ocular diseases whose differential diagnosis included retinoblastoma. The prevalence and mean titers of Toxocara antibody detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were greater (P less than 0.005) for patients with OT than for the control group, but not all clinically diagnosed OT cases had detectable antibody. The prevalence of pica was significantly greater in cases than in controls (P less than 0.05). Almost all case and control patients had a history of exposure to pet dogs and cats, but recent exposure to puppies (less than 3 months old) was significantly associated with Toxocara infection in this study group.", "contents": "Clinical, serologic, and epidemiologic characteristics of ocular toxocariasis. The clinical, serologic, and epidemiologic characteristics of 17 cases of ocular toxocariasis (OT) were studied and compared with those of a control group of 15 cases of other ocular diseases whose differential diagnosis included retinoblastoma. The prevalence and mean titers of Toxocara antibody detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were greater (P less than 0.005) for patients with OT than for the control group, but not all clinically diagnosed OT cases had detectable antibody. The prevalence of pica was significantly greater in cases than in controls (P less than 0.05). Almost all case and control patients had a history of exposure to pet dogs and cats, but recent exposure to puppies (less than 3 months old) was significantly associated with Toxocara infection in this study group.", "PMID": 434311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2126", "title": "Toxocara-specific antibody in the serum and aqueous humor of a patient with presumed ocular and visceral toxocariasis.", "content": "Rarely have concurrent ocular and systemic toxocariasis been reported in the literature. We describe a patient with serologically proven visceral toxocariasis who had a granulomatous lesion in the iris, small rod-like lesions in the retina, and in whom Toxocara-specific antibodies were also demonstrated in the aqueous humor. Two older siblings of this patient also had demonstrable serum antibody to Toxocara. The ocular manifestations resolved rapidly with corticosteroid and thiabendazole therapy and the initial leucocytosis, hepatomegaly, and elevated IgM level were normal at 3.5 months. These changes might be attributed to either the thiabendazole and prednisone therapy or to the natural history of this disease.", "contents": "Toxocara-specific antibody in the serum and aqueous humor of a patient with presumed ocular and visceral toxocariasis. Rarely have concurrent ocular and systemic toxocariasis been reported in the literature. We describe a patient with serologically proven visceral toxocariasis who had a granulomatous lesion in the iris, small rod-like lesions in the retina, and in whom Toxocara-specific antibodies were also demonstrated in the aqueous humor. Two older siblings of this patient also had demonstrable serum antibody to Toxocara. The ocular manifestations resolved rapidly with corticosteroid and thiabendazole therapy and the initial leucocytosis, hepatomegaly, and elevated IgM level were normal at 3.5 months. These changes might be attributed to either the thiabendazole and prednisone therapy or to the natural history of this disease.", "PMID": 434312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2127", "title": "Eosinophilic meningitis: a suspected case of angiostrongylosis found in Shizuoka Prefecture, Honshu, Japan.", "content": "A patient with eosinophilic meningitis in Shizuoka Prefecture, Honshu, Japan had nausea, vomiting and headache on admission; laboratory examinations revealed leukocytosis with eosinophilia. Eight days later neck stiffness appeared. Lumbar puncture showed an increase of the initial pressure in association with eosinophilic pleocytosis in the spinal fluid. The possibility of angiostrongylosis was considered because the patient had eaten raw slugs for 4 years as a remedy for lumbago. Although the serum contained cross-reactive antibodies against Toxocara canis, positive reactions to Angiostrongylus cantonensis antigens were observed in all of the immunological tests made. These observations, together with results of epidemiological studies in Honshu carried out by other investigators, suggest that the present case of eosinophilic meningitis may have been caused by A. cantonensis. One previous case has been reported from Honshu Island, Japan.", "contents": "Eosinophilic meningitis: a suspected case of angiostrongylosis found in Shizuoka Prefecture, Honshu, Japan. A patient with eosinophilic meningitis in Shizuoka Prefecture, Honshu, Japan had nausea, vomiting and headache on admission; laboratory examinations revealed leukocytosis with eosinophilia. Eight days later neck stiffness appeared. Lumbar puncture showed an increase of the initial pressure in association with eosinophilic pleocytosis in the spinal fluid. The possibility of angiostrongylosis was considered because the patient had eaten raw slugs for 4 years as a remedy for lumbago. Although the serum contained cross-reactive antibodies against Toxocara canis, positive reactions to Angiostrongylus cantonensis antigens were observed in all of the immunological tests made. These observations, together with results of epidemiological studies in Honshu carried out by other investigators, suggest that the present case of eosinophilic meningitis may have been caused by A. cantonensis. One previous case has been reported from Honshu Island, Japan.", "PMID": 434313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2128", "title": "Gnathostomiasis, a possible etiologic agent of eosinophilic granuloma of the gastrointestinal tract.", "content": "A 42-year-old Thai man from central Thailand came to Ramathibodi Hospital with the complaint of abdominal pain. Physical examination revealed localized tenderness in the right lower quadrant. The clinical impression was acute appendicitis and an operation was performed, revealing a large mass in the cecum. A right hemicolectomy was done for what was thought to be a carcinoma of the colon. The resected colon showed subserosal thickening on the antimesenteric side of the ascending colon with a constricted area at the middle portion. An immature adult Gnathostoma spinigerum was identified in the thickened subserosa of the cecum. Microscopic examination of the involved bowel showed a heavy infiltration of eosinophils, fibroblasts and histiocytes, and mild to moderate edema. The findings were consistent with eosinophilic granuloma of the gastrointestinal tract, and the presence of the parasite in the affected bowel suggested that it was the etiologic agent.", "contents": "Gnathostomiasis, a possible etiologic agent of eosinophilic granuloma of the gastrointestinal tract. A 42-year-old Thai man from central Thailand came to Ramathibodi Hospital with the complaint of abdominal pain. Physical examination revealed localized tenderness in the right lower quadrant. The clinical impression was acute appendicitis and an operation was performed, revealing a large mass in the cecum. A right hemicolectomy was done for what was thought to be a carcinoma of the colon. The resected colon showed subserosal thickening on the antimesenteric side of the ascending colon with a constricted area at the middle portion. An immature adult Gnathostoma spinigerum was identified in the thickened subserosa of the cecum. Microscopic examination of the involved bowel showed a heavy infiltration of eosinophils, fibroblasts and histiocytes, and mild to moderate edema. The findings were consistent with eosinophilic granuloma of the gastrointestinal tract, and the presence of the parasite in the affected bowel suggested that it was the etiologic agent.", "PMID": 434314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2129", "title": "Subcutaneous dirofilariasis in Okinawa, Japan.", "content": "A nematode within a subcutaneous nodule excised from an elderly Okinawan man has been tentatively identified in sections as an immature Dirofilaria repens--the first to be reported from Japan.", "contents": "Subcutaneous dirofilariasis in Okinawa, Japan. A nematode within a subcutaneous nodule excised from an elderly Okinawan man has been tentatively identified in sections as an immature Dirofilaria repens--the first to be reported from Japan.", "PMID": 434315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2130", "title": "Onchocerciasis in San Vicente Pacaya, Guatemala.", "content": "An epidemiological survey for onchocerciasis was carried out in the San Vicente Pacaya area of Guatemala. A total of 2,153 inhabitants were examined by a single skin snip, and 664 (30.8%) were positive for microfilariae. Slit lamp examination of the anterior chamber of the eye revealed microfilariae in 6.2%; the positive rate for microfilariae in the anterior chamber was proportional to the microfilarial density in the skin. The altitude-dependent character of onchocercal infection was shown in this mountainous area, suggesting that transmission occurs principally between 600 and 1,300 m. Of, 1,217 persons examined simultaneously by skin snip and by palpation for nodules, 587 were positive by one or both methods; 101 infections were detected by onchocercal nodules only and these were usually in children or persons living in areas of low endemicity. It was concluded that both the skin snip and a search for nodules are required for accurately determining the prevalence of onchocerciasis in Guatemala.", "contents": "Onchocerciasis in San Vicente Pacaya, Guatemala. An epidemiological survey for onchocerciasis was carried out in the San Vicente Pacaya area of Guatemala. A total of 2,153 inhabitants were examined by a single skin snip, and 664 (30.8%) were positive for microfilariae. Slit lamp examination of the anterior chamber of the eye revealed microfilariae in 6.2%; the positive rate for microfilariae in the anterior chamber was proportional to the microfilarial density in the skin. The altitude-dependent character of onchocercal infection was shown in this mountainous area, suggesting that transmission occurs principally between 600 and 1,300 m. Of, 1,217 persons examined simultaneously by skin snip and by palpation for nodules, 587 were positive by one or both methods; 101 infections were detected by onchocercal nodules only and these were usually in children or persons living in areas of low endemicity. It was concluded that both the skin snip and a search for nodules are required for accurately determining the prevalence of onchocerciasis in Guatemala.", "PMID": 434316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2131", "title": "Onchocerciasis transmission potentials of four species of Guatemalan simuliidae.", "content": "Two complete days of collections and dissections of all black fly species landing on two persons infected with Onchocerca volvulus were made at monthly intervals for 13 months within a single endemic area of Guatemala. A comparison of the infective biting densities and transmission potentials showed that Simulium ochraceum was the only significant vector.", "contents": "Onchocerciasis transmission potentials of four species of Guatemalan simuliidae. Two complete days of collections and dissections of all black fly species landing on two persons infected with Onchocerca volvulus were made at monthly intervals for 13 months within a single endemic area of Guatemala. A comparison of the infective biting densities and transmission potentials showed that Simulium ochraceum was the only significant vector.", "PMID": 434317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2132", "title": "Extragenital cutaneous lesions of schistosomiasis mansoni: report of two cases.", "content": "Two cases of extragenital cutaneous lesions caused by eggs of Schistosoma mansoni are described. In one case the cutaneous involvement occurred during the acute phase of schistosomiasis; in the other the lesion appeared several years after specific treatment for schistosomiasis had been given.", "contents": "Extragenital cutaneous lesions of schistosomiasis mansoni: report of two cases. Two cases of extragenital cutaneous lesions caused by eggs of Schistosoma mansoni are described. In one case the cutaneous involvement occurred during the acute phase of schistosomiasis; in the other the lesion appeared several years after specific treatment for schistosomiasis had been given.", "PMID": 434318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2133", "title": "Comparison of four species of snails as potential decoys to intercept schistosome miracidia.", "content": "Preliminary studies have shown that various species of aquatic snails may be used as decoys or \"sponges\" to intercept schistosome miracidia, thereby preventing the miracidia from reaching the snails which normally serve as their intermediate host. In this study, four species of snails were evaluated as candidate decoys for field trials: Marisa cornuarietis, Pomacea australis, Helisoma caribaeum, and Tarebia granifera. In the laboratory all four species caused considerable reductions in the proportion of Biomphalaria glabrata infected by miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni. The most effective decoys were M. cornuarietis and H. caribaeum, both of which caused experimental infection levels of 90% to decrease to 25% when five decoy snails were present for each target snail. When ten decoy snails were present for each target snail, the proportion infected decreased to 1%. M. cornuarietis was chosen as the candidate for field trials because it was found more frequently in Puerto Rico than was H. caribaeum. Initial field trials in two ponds showed that M. cornuarietis blocked infections at a ratio of 6 decoys to 1 target snail, confirming the laboratory results. Further studies in flowing water are needed before the technique can be generally evaluated in an endemic area.", "contents": "Comparison of four species of snails as potential decoys to intercept schistosome miracidia. Preliminary studies have shown that various species of aquatic snails may be used as decoys or \"sponges\" to intercept schistosome miracidia, thereby preventing the miracidia from reaching the snails which normally serve as their intermediate host. In this study, four species of snails were evaluated as candidate decoys for field trials: Marisa cornuarietis, Pomacea australis, Helisoma caribaeum, and Tarebia granifera. In the laboratory all four species caused considerable reductions in the proportion of Biomphalaria glabrata infected by miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni. The most effective decoys were M. cornuarietis and H. caribaeum, both of which caused experimental infection levels of 90% to decrease to 25% when five decoy snails were present for each target snail. When ten decoy snails were present for each target snail, the proportion infected decreased to 1%. M. cornuarietis was chosen as the candidate for field trials because it was found more frequently in Puerto Rico than was H. caribaeum. Initial field trials in two ponds showed that M. cornuarietis blocked infections at a ratio of 6 decoys to 1 target snail, confirming the laboratory results. Further studies in flowing water are needed before the technique can be generally evaluated in an endemic area.", "PMID": 434319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2134", "title": "Pancreatic enzyme levels in bile of patients with extrahepatic biliary tract disease.", "content": "A total of ninety three patients with biliary tract disease were studied to determine the concentration of the pancreatic enzymes, amylase and lipase, in bile obtained from the gallbladder and/or common bile duct. Of seventy gallbladder bile samples, amylase levels were higher than actual or predicted serum levels in 87 per cent, while bile lipase were higher than serum lipase values in 66 per cent. Bile obtained from the common bile duct had enzyme concentrations which fluctuated from values similar to those in serum to remarkably high levels. This suggests that pancreatic enzymes enter the biliary system through a common terminal ampulla which is known to exist in 60 to 90 per cent of human subjects. The premise is advanced that pancreatic enzymes may initiate inflammatory changes in the gallbladder and could play a role in gallstone formation by altering the constituents which maintain cholesterol in a soluble state. Biliary reflux of pancreatic enzymes could play a role in the pathogenesis of some cases of cholecystitis can cholelithiasis.", "contents": "Pancreatic enzyme levels in bile of patients with extrahepatic biliary tract disease. A total of ninety three patients with biliary tract disease were studied to determine the concentration of the pancreatic enzymes, amylase and lipase, in bile obtained from the gallbladder and/or common bile duct. Of seventy gallbladder bile samples, amylase levels were higher than actual or predicted serum levels in 87 per cent, while bile lipase were higher than serum lipase values in 66 per cent. Bile obtained from the common bile duct had enzyme concentrations which fluctuated from values similar to those in serum to remarkably high levels. This suggests that pancreatic enzymes enter the biliary system through a common terminal ampulla which is known to exist in 60 to 90 per cent of human subjects. The premise is advanced that pancreatic enzymes may initiate inflammatory changes in the gallbladder and could play a role in gallstone formation by altering the constituents which maintain cholesterol in a soluble state. Biliary reflux of pancreatic enzymes could play a role in the pathogenesis of some cases of cholecystitis can cholelithiasis.", "PMID": 434320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2135", "title": "Intrahepatic lithiasis. Study of thirty-six cases and review of the literature.", "content": "In 2,700 operations for biliary tract stones, intrahepatic lithiasis (stones located proximal to the confluence of the main hepatic ducts) was discovered in 36 patients (1.3 per cent). The diagnosis of intrahepatic lithiasis was determined only via intraoperative chalangiography in thirty-two cases (88.9 er cent); in 23 per cent of our cases of intrahepatic lithiasis, jaundice was never observed. This confirms that intraoperative cholangiography should be performed routinely in every case of biliary lithiasis. The removal of stones was generally performed by an indirect approach (papillostomy and/or choledochotomy). In 16.7 per cent of our cases, a direct approach was indicated. It is extremely important, after removal of calculi, to assure ample bilioenteric flow. Our surgical approach was therefore based mostly on the caliber of the biliary tract. When the tract was dilated less that 2 cm (in 20 cases), choledochohepaticotomy with papillostomy was most often performed (12 cases, 60 per cent). When the dilatation was more that 2 cm (12 cases), Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was performed in all. There was no operative mortality, although the long-term follow-up results were poor in 9.6 per cent of the cases.", "contents": "Intrahepatic lithiasis. Study of thirty-six cases and review of the literature. In 2,700 operations for biliary tract stones, intrahepatic lithiasis (stones located proximal to the confluence of the main hepatic ducts) was discovered in 36 patients (1.3 per cent). The diagnosis of intrahepatic lithiasis was determined only via intraoperative chalangiography in thirty-two cases (88.9 er cent); in 23 per cent of our cases of intrahepatic lithiasis, jaundice was never observed. This confirms that intraoperative cholangiography should be performed routinely in every case of biliary lithiasis. The removal of stones was generally performed by an indirect approach (papillostomy and/or choledochotomy). In 16.7 per cent of our cases, a direct approach was indicated. It is extremely important, after removal of calculi, to assure ample bilioenteric flow. Our surgical approach was therefore based mostly on the caliber of the biliary tract. When the tract was dilated less that 2 cm (in 20 cases), choledochohepaticotomy with papillostomy was most often performed (12 cases, 60 per cent). When the dilatation was more that 2 cm (12 cases), Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was performed in all. There was no operative mortality, although the long-term follow-up results were poor in 9.6 per cent of the cases.", "PMID": 434323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2136", "title": "Cimetidine protects against stress-induced gastric injury augmented by mucosal barrier breakers.", "content": "An experimental rat model utilizing cold-restraint stress was employed to test the ability of an H2-receptor antagonist, cimetidine, to control gastric mucosal injury associated with stress augmented by the gastric mucosal barrier breakers, aspirin and taurocholate. Both aspirin and taurocholate, when combined with stress, caused a significant increase in gastric mucosal injury over that seen in animals receiving either stress alone or only gastric mucosal barrier breakers without stress. Pretreatment with cimetidine caused a significant reduction in gastric mucosal injury in stressed animals receiving gastric mucosal barrier breakers. This reduction was to the level of lesions seen in nonstressed animals.", "contents": "Cimetidine protects against stress-induced gastric injury augmented by mucosal barrier breakers. An experimental rat model utilizing cold-restraint stress was employed to test the ability of an H2-receptor antagonist, cimetidine, to control gastric mucosal injury associated with stress augmented by the gastric mucosal barrier breakers, aspirin and taurocholate. Both aspirin and taurocholate, when combined with stress, caused a significant increase in gastric mucosal injury over that seen in animals receiving either stress alone or only gastric mucosal barrier breakers without stress. Pretreatment with cimetidine caused a significant reduction in gastric mucosal injury in stressed animals receiving gastric mucosal barrier breakers. This reduction was to the level of lesions seen in nonstressed animals.", "PMID": 434324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2137", "title": "rho-Shaped anastomosis: a reconstruction of the alimentary tract after total gastrectomy.", "content": "One hundred sixty-four patients underwent total gastrectomy with a rho-shaped jejunal food pouch (rho loop) and roux-en-Y jejunojejunostomy. The rate of postoperative complications was very low (9.1 per cent), and the most important problem of anastomotic failure was never encountered. Only 4 of 164 patients (2.4 per cent) died within one month of surgery, and the causes of death were pneumonia (2 patients), cerebral hemorrhage (1), and ileus (1). The function of the newly constructed passage was estimated through an elaborate barium meal examination. The test revealed that the rho-shaped jejunal food pouch has adequate reservoir and mixing functions for ingested foodstuff. No reflux of barium meal into the esophagus was observed during the examination. In a follow-up study of the patients, only a few complained of symptoms of reflux esophagitis or dumping, but none of them needed any treatment.", "contents": "rho-Shaped anastomosis: a reconstruction of the alimentary tract after total gastrectomy. One hundred sixty-four patients underwent total gastrectomy with a rho-shaped jejunal food pouch (rho loop) and roux-en-Y jejunojejunostomy. The rate of postoperative complications was very low (9.1 per cent), and the most important problem of anastomotic failure was never encountered. Only 4 of 164 patients (2.4 per cent) died within one month of surgery, and the causes of death were pneumonia (2 patients), cerebral hemorrhage (1), and ileus (1). The function of the newly constructed passage was estimated through an elaborate barium meal examination. The test revealed that the rho-shaped jejunal food pouch has adequate reservoir and mixing functions for ingested foodstuff. No reflux of barium meal into the esophagus was observed during the examination. In a follow-up study of the patients, only a few complained of symptoms of reflux esophagitis or dumping, but none of them needed any treatment.", "PMID": 434325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2138", "title": "Antrectomy as treatment of recurrence after vagotomy for duodenal ulcer.", "content": "Sixty-eight patients antrectomized for recurrent ulcer after different types of vagotomy were reexamined two to ten years after the operation. Mortality after antrectomy for recurrent ulcer was 1.5 per cent (95 per cent confidence limits, 0.0 to 7.9 per cent), the recurrence rate 2.9 per cent (0.4 to 10.2 per cent), and total failure rate (Visick IV) 13.0 per cent (0.4 to 25.6 per cent). If these figures are applied to a series of 260 proximal gastric vagotomies recently reported from our department and compared with data from series of vagotomy-antrectomy as primary treatment of duodenal ulcer, the final surgical mortality and cure rate will be equal, whereas the final failure rate (Visick IV) probably would be less after proximal gastric vagotomy because of a lower frequency of dumping and diarrhea.", "contents": "Antrectomy as treatment of recurrence after vagotomy for duodenal ulcer. Sixty-eight patients antrectomized for recurrent ulcer after different types of vagotomy were reexamined two to ten years after the operation. Mortality after antrectomy for recurrent ulcer was 1.5 per cent (95 per cent confidence limits, 0.0 to 7.9 per cent), the recurrence rate 2.9 per cent (0.4 to 10.2 per cent), and total failure rate (Visick IV) 13.0 per cent (0.4 to 25.6 per cent). If these figures are applied to a series of 260 proximal gastric vagotomies recently reported from our department and compared with data from series of vagotomy-antrectomy as primary treatment of duodenal ulcer, the final surgical mortality and cure rate will be equal, whereas the final failure rate (Visick IV) probably would be less after proximal gastric vagotomy because of a lower frequency of dumping and diarrhea.", "PMID": 434326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2139", "title": "Chronic and recurrent appendicitis.", "content": "Acute appendicitis is a well known clinical entity, but many physicians are unwilling to accept appendicitis as a chronic or recurrent illness. Of 225 patients undergoing appendectomy, sixteen (7 per cent) had findings suggestive of chronic, recurrent, or subacute appendicitis. Four patients had chronic abdominal pain and histologic findings of chronic inflammation. Nine patients had previous episodes similar to that which resulted in appendectomy. All had acute suppurative appendicitis pathologically. Three patients had only one episode of abdominal pain, but had pathologic evidence of subacute inflammation. Because this study was retrospective, we suspect that the true incidence of recurrent appendicitis is significantly greater, as reported by others. Indications for operation must be strict, for unless there are specific signs and symptoms of appendiceal disease, appendectomy will often be of no benefit.", "contents": "Chronic and recurrent appendicitis. Acute appendicitis is a well known clinical entity, but many physicians are unwilling to accept appendicitis as a chronic or recurrent illness. Of 225 patients undergoing appendectomy, sixteen (7 per cent) had findings suggestive of chronic, recurrent, or subacute appendicitis. Four patients had chronic abdominal pain and histologic findings of chronic inflammation. Nine patients had previous episodes similar to that which resulted in appendectomy. All had acute suppurative appendicitis pathologically. Three patients had only one episode of abdominal pain, but had pathologic evidence of subacute inflammation. Because this study was retrospective, we suspect that the true incidence of recurrent appendicitis is significantly greater, as reported by others. Indications for operation must be strict, for unless there are specific signs and symptoms of appendiceal disease, appendectomy will often be of no benefit.", "PMID": 434329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2140", "title": "Effects of concurrent sepsis with clinically significant pulmonary embolic disease.", "content": "Forty-one patients with significant pulmonary emboli were reviewed. The presence of heart disease and obesity was found with relatively constant frequency throughout the groups presented. Postoperative infections (wounds or abscess) were frequently associated with fatal or significant pulmonary embolism, particularly after abdominal and pelvic operations. The infection rate (65 per cent) in patients in whom significant pulmonary embolism developed after abdominal and pelvic operations is particularly striking when compared to the overall infection rate of 7 per cent for major operations in our hospital. Recent studies of prophylactic minidose heparinization reveal an increased number of complications due to the heparin [24], and thus the proper selection of cases for prophylactic minidose heparin is mandatory. The data suggest that patients at high risk for the development of postoperative complications of infection are also at high risk for the development of significant pulmonary emboli and should be considered candidates for prophylactic minidose heparinization.", "contents": "Effects of concurrent sepsis with clinically significant pulmonary embolic disease. Forty-one patients with significant pulmonary emboli were reviewed. The presence of heart disease and obesity was found with relatively constant frequency throughout the groups presented. Postoperative infections (wounds or abscess) were frequently associated with fatal or significant pulmonary embolism, particularly after abdominal and pelvic operations. The infection rate (65 per cent) in patients in whom significant pulmonary embolism developed after abdominal and pelvic operations is particularly striking when compared to the overall infection rate of 7 per cent for major operations in our hospital. Recent studies of prophylactic minidose heparinization reveal an increased number of complications due to the heparin [24], and thus the proper selection of cases for prophylactic minidose heparin is mandatory. The data suggest that patients at high risk for the development of postoperative complications of infection are also at high risk for the development of significant pulmonary emboli and should be considered candidates for prophylactic minidose heparinization.", "PMID": 434330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2141", "title": "Survival following mastectomy for stage III breast cancer.", "content": "Patients with locally advanced breast cancer have been considered unsuitable for curative surgical therapy and are usually approached with other treatment modalities. Review of the results of radical mastectomy in 228 patients with stage III breast cancer demonstrates actuarial survival of 33 per cent at five years and 22 per cent at ten years. Treatment with preoperative or postoperative radiotherapy as employed did not lead to survival superior to that of mastectomy alone. Evidence of local or regional recurrence developed in 27 per cent of patients. In 73 per cent the first recurrence was systemic. This retrospective study suggests that the prognosis for locally advanced breast cancer is not as dismal as has been previously reported. The importance of nodal involvement is again emphasized. A randomized trial of mastectomy with adjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer is warranted. Such a study is in progress at our institution.", "contents": "Survival following mastectomy for stage III breast cancer. Patients with locally advanced breast cancer have been considered unsuitable for curative surgical therapy and are usually approached with other treatment modalities. Review of the results of radical mastectomy in 228 patients with stage III breast cancer demonstrates actuarial survival of 33 per cent at five years and 22 per cent at ten years. Treatment with preoperative or postoperative radiotherapy as employed did not lead to survival superior to that of mastectomy alone. Evidence of local or regional recurrence developed in 27 per cent of patients. In 73 per cent the first recurrence was systemic. This retrospective study suggests that the prognosis for locally advanced breast cancer is not as dismal as has been previously reported. The importance of nodal involvement is again emphasized. A randomized trial of mastectomy with adjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer is warranted. Such a study is in progress at our institution.", "PMID": 434331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2142", "title": "Adolescent breast masses in Nigerian Igbos.", "content": "In the Igbos of Nigeria, most adolescent breast masses were due to gynecomastia in males and to fibroadenoma in females. The peak ages for both diseases differed from those reported in a recent American series. An exotic finding was a mammary mass due to onchocerca worms. Curiously, there were as many as two cases of a rare tumor, namely, alveolar soft part sarcoma.", "contents": "Adolescent breast masses in Nigerian Igbos. In the Igbos of Nigeria, most adolescent breast masses were due to gynecomastia in males and to fibroadenoma in females. The peak ages for both diseases differed from those reported in a recent American series. An exotic finding was a mammary mass due to onchocerca worms. Curiously, there were as many as two cases of a rare tumor, namely, alveolar soft part sarcoma.", "PMID": 434332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2143", "title": "Feasibility of integration of modalities in melanomas and sarcomas.", "content": "Chemotherapy was administered in the immediate postoperative period to seventy patients (52 with melanomas and 18 with sarcomas) after a total of eighty-seven major operations, with no morbidity or mortality traceable to the chemotherapy. There was no apparent interference with wound healing or what would be considered a normal postoperative course. Fourteen of these patients (5 with melanomas and 9 with sarcomas) received a combination of radiation anc chemotherapy initiated in the postoperative period, and it was tolerated well. This combination appears to be safe, provided the field of radiation is not so large that is may add significantly to the myelosuppressive effect of chemotherapy and the dosage of concomitantly administered radiopotentiating agent(s) is reduced. Sixteen patients had Bacillus Calmette-G\u00faerin (BCG) immunotherapy in the immediate postoperative period without complications. This policy of a tight interweaving of modalities is safe, has the theoretic advantage of an earlier concerted attack on microscopic residual tumor, and appears particularly promising in sarcomas.", "contents": "Feasibility of integration of modalities in melanomas and sarcomas. Chemotherapy was administered in the immediate postoperative period to seventy patients (52 with melanomas and 18 with sarcomas) after a total of eighty-seven major operations, with no morbidity or mortality traceable to the chemotherapy. There was no apparent interference with wound healing or what would be considered a normal postoperative course. Fourteen of these patients (5 with melanomas and 9 with sarcomas) received a combination of radiation anc chemotherapy initiated in the postoperative period, and it was tolerated well. This combination appears to be safe, provided the field of radiation is not so large that is may add significantly to the myelosuppressive effect of chemotherapy and the dosage of concomitantly administered radiopotentiating agent(s) is reduced. Sixteen patients had Bacillus Calmette-G\u00faerin (BCG) immunotherapy in the immediate postoperative period without complications. This policy of a tight interweaving of modalities is safe, has the theoretic advantage of an earlier concerted attack on microscopic residual tumor, and appears particularly promising in sarcomas.", "PMID": 434333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2144", "title": "Pyogenic osteomyelitis of axial bones following civilian gunshot wounds.", "content": "A series of forty-five patients with low velocity gunshot wounds to the spine and pelvis were followed up for at least eight weeks to determine the incidence of pyogenic osteomyelitis and the role of debridement and fragment removal in its prevention. Four cases of osteomyelitis were found, and although debridement was not frequently done, the incidence of osteomyelitis was higher following debridement than it was without debridement. The most important cause appeared to be spread of contiguous intraabdominal abscesses into the injured paravertebral muscles and spine. If an intraabdominal abscess did not develop, the presence of gastrointestinal injury did not predispose the patient to osteomyelitis. Based on this study, we can conclude that debridement and fragment removal of the spine and pelvic bones are unnecessary for low velocity missile wounds.", "contents": "Pyogenic osteomyelitis of axial bones following civilian gunshot wounds. A series of forty-five patients with low velocity gunshot wounds to the spine and pelvis were followed up for at least eight weeks to determine the incidence of pyogenic osteomyelitis and the role of debridement and fragment removal in its prevention. Four cases of osteomyelitis were found, and although debridement was not frequently done, the incidence of osteomyelitis was higher following debridement than it was without debridement. The most important cause appeared to be spread of contiguous intraabdominal abscesses into the injured paravertebral muscles and spine. If an intraabdominal abscess did not develop, the presence of gastrointestinal injury did not predispose the patient to osteomyelitis. Based on this study, we can conclude that debridement and fragment removal of the spine and pelvic bones are unnecessary for low velocity missile wounds.", "PMID": 434334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2145", "title": "Activity of antibiotics in contaminated wounds containing clay soil.", "content": "Most traumatic wounds are contaminated to some degree by soil and run a high risk of infection. The presence of soil in wounds interferes with natural tissue defenses, which include phagocytosis and serum bactericidal capacity. The experimental studies reported herein clearly demonstrate that soil also limits the antibacterial effects of specific antibiotics. This inactivation appears to be the result of a chemical reaction between the charged antibiotics and the soil particles.", "contents": "Activity of antibiotics in contaminated wounds containing clay soil. Most traumatic wounds are contaminated to some degree by soil and run a high risk of infection. The presence of soil in wounds interferes with natural tissue defenses, which include phagocytosis and serum bactericidal capacity. The experimental studies reported herein clearly demonstrate that soil also limits the antibacterial effects of specific antibiotics. This inactivation appears to be the result of a chemical reaction between the charged antibiotics and the soil particles.", "PMID": 434335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2146", "title": "Factors influencing mortality and morbidity from injuries to tha abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava.", "content": "Fifty patients having undergone operation for injury to the abdominal aorta and/or vena cava at the University of Alabama Hospital are reviewed. Factors influencing mortality include mechanism and location of injury, presence of shock, associated vascular and visceral organ injuries, and delay in treatment. Rapid restoration of blood volume and control of hemorrhage are the primary goals of resuscitative measures. Only with a preconceived and coordinated plan can the surgeon fully employ the necessary skills in the management of these serious injuries.", "contents": "Factors influencing mortality and morbidity from injuries to tha abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava. Fifty patients having undergone operation for injury to the abdominal aorta and/or vena cava at the University of Alabama Hospital are reviewed. Factors influencing mortality include mechanism and location of injury, presence of shock, associated vascular and visceral organ injuries, and delay in treatment. Rapid restoration of blood volume and control of hemorrhage are the primary goals of resuscitative measures. Only with a preconceived and coordinated plan can the surgeon fully employ the necessary skills in the management of these serious injuries.", "PMID": 434336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2147", "title": "Prophylactic interruption of the inferior vena cava. A retrospective evaluation.", "content": "One hundred sixty patients were retrospectively evaluated to determine the effect of prophylactic inferior vena caval interruption in association with aortic surgery. Sixty-three patients underwent aortic procedures without inferior vena caval interruption and ninety-seven patients underwent placement of an Adams-DeWeese clip as prophylaxis against pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurred in 10 per cent of the group without the clip and in no patients in the group with the clip. The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was identical in both groups (10 per cent). The 6 per cent rate of early (within 6 months) postoperative leg edema in the group with the inferior vena caval clip was a significant problem in only one patient after twenty-four months. Prophylactic interruption of the inferior vena cava has been shown to be a safe method of decreasing the incidence of pulmonary embolism without increasing the incidence of venous-related complications.", "contents": "Prophylactic interruption of the inferior vena cava. A retrospective evaluation. One hundred sixty patients were retrospectively evaluated to determine the effect of prophylactic inferior vena caval interruption in association with aortic surgery. Sixty-three patients underwent aortic procedures without inferior vena caval interruption and ninety-seven patients underwent placement of an Adams-DeWeese clip as prophylaxis against pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurred in 10 per cent of the group without the clip and in no patients in the group with the clip. The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was identical in both groups (10 per cent). The 6 per cent rate of early (within 6 months) postoperative leg edema in the group with the inferior vena caval clip was a significant problem in only one patient after twenty-four months. Prophylactic interruption of the inferior vena cava has been shown to be a safe method of decreasing the incidence of pulmonary embolism without increasing the incidence of venous-related complications.", "PMID": 434337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2148", "title": "Hemangiopericytoma. Literature review and clinical presentations.", "content": "Hemangiopericytomas are soft tissue sarcomas of vascular origin, comprised of pericytes. They have been reported in the extremities, head and neck, back, retroperitoneum, and abdomen. The criteria for the diagnosis and treatment are reviewed. Wide local ablation of the tumor is necessary to prevent local recurrence. Fifty per cent are malignant, although regional node spread is infrequent. Ultrastructural studies are necessary to differentiate hemangiopericytomas from other sarcomas. Long-term follow-up of all cases is essential for optimal clinical management.", "contents": "Hemangiopericytoma. Literature review and clinical presentations. Hemangiopericytomas are soft tissue sarcomas of vascular origin, comprised of pericytes. They have been reported in the extremities, head and neck, back, retroperitoneum, and abdomen. The criteria for the diagnosis and treatment are reviewed. Wide local ablation of the tumor is necessary to prevent local recurrence. Fifty per cent are malignant, although regional node spread is infrequent. Ultrastructural studies are necessary to differentiate hemangiopericytomas from other sarcomas. Long-term follow-up of all cases is essential for optimal clinical management.", "PMID": 434338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2149", "title": "Scribner shunt conversion to arteriovenous fistula.", "content": "Scribner shunts were converted to arteriovenous fistulas in twenty-six patients, with long-term success in twenty patients. Infection with loss of the fistula was a problem in two patients. The fistulas were used for home as well as center dialysis and as a primary blood access site as well as a backup site.", "contents": "Scribner shunt conversion to arteriovenous fistula. Scribner shunts were converted to arteriovenous fistulas in twenty-six patients, with long-term success in twenty patients. Infection with loss of the fistula was a problem in two patients. The fistulas were used for home as well as center dialysis and as a primary blood access site as well as a backup site.", "PMID": 434339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2150", "title": "A new instrument for inserting a U tube.", "content": "A new instrument for the placement of U tubes through malignant and benign biliary strictures consists of a 3 mm Bakes dilator modified by a circumferential groove and a small hole through its tip.", "contents": "A new instrument for inserting a U tube. A new instrument for the placement of U tubes through malignant and benign biliary strictures consists of a 3 mm Bakes dilator modified by a circumferential groove and a small hole through its tip.", "PMID": 434340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2151", "title": "[Gas chromatographic determination of the solubility coefficient for volatile anaesthetics (author's transl)].", "content": "For the determination of the solubility coefficient of volatile anaesthetics in Schindler's liquid culture, modified by Karzel, a gas-chromatographic analysis with direct-injection-method was used. A well defined volume with a known concentration of the anaesthetic was added to a vessel with known volume. After equilibration the concentration of the inhalational anaesthetics was determined in the liquid at various temperatures. The solubility coefficient and the temperature coefficient were then calculated from these data. We obtained the following solubility coefficients at -4 degrees C (37 degrees): for halothane 1,07 (0,77), for enflurane 1,14 (0,70), for methoxyflurane 4,92 (3,23) and for isoflurane 1,13 (0,82). In Schindler's liquid culture modified by Karzel the values at 24 degrees (37 degrees) were: for halothane 1,33 (0,92), for enflurane 1,32 (0,87), for methoxyflurane 6,61 (4,48) and for isoflurane 1,19 (0,98). The temperature coefficient for this temperature range were in water (in Schindler's liquid culture) for halothane: -2,31 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-3,15 . 10(-2) K(-1)), for methoxyflurane: -13,0 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-16,48 . 10(-2) K(-1)), for enflurane: -3,38 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-3,46 . 10(-2) K(-1)) and for isoflurane: -2,38 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-1,62 . 10(-2) K(-1)).", "contents": "[Gas chromatographic determination of the solubility coefficient for volatile anaesthetics (author's transl)]. For the determination of the solubility coefficient of volatile anaesthetics in Schindler's liquid culture, modified by Karzel, a gas-chromatographic analysis with direct-injection-method was used. A well defined volume with a known concentration of the anaesthetic was added to a vessel with known volume. After equilibration the concentration of the inhalational anaesthetics was determined in the liquid at various temperatures. The solubility coefficient and the temperature coefficient were then calculated from these data. We obtained the following solubility coefficients at -4 degrees C (37 degrees): for halothane 1,07 (0,77), for enflurane 1,14 (0,70), for methoxyflurane 4,92 (3,23) and for isoflurane 1,13 (0,82). In Schindler's liquid culture modified by Karzel the values at 24 degrees (37 degrees) were: for halothane 1,33 (0,92), for enflurane 1,32 (0,87), for methoxyflurane 6,61 (4,48) and for isoflurane 1,19 (0,98). The temperature coefficient for this temperature range were in water (in Schindler's liquid culture) for halothane: -2,31 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-3,15 . 10(-2) K(-1)), for methoxyflurane: -13,0 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-16,48 . 10(-2) K(-1)), for enflurane: -3,38 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-3,46 . 10(-2) K(-1)) and for isoflurane: -2,38 . 10(-2) K(-1) (-1,62 . 10(-2) K(-1)).", "PMID": 434422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2152", "title": "[A new method for the continuous determination of ethrane in the blood and the expired air by means of gaschromatography as end-analytic system (author's transl)].", "content": "A method for continuous measurement of the anaesthetic Ethrane in blood and gas samples is described. Using the same GC-parameters for the analyses of gases and blood extracts, a short GC-column together with high oven temperature as well as shortening of preparation (extraction) time allows the analysis of two blood samples and one gas sample within 15 minutes' steps (the time for an additional gas sample analysis being max. 3 min). Thus a quasi simultaneous follow up of the course of anaesthesia in animals and in humans may be guaranteed.", "contents": "[A new method for the continuous determination of ethrane in the blood and the expired air by means of gaschromatography as end-analytic system (author's transl)]. A method for continuous measurement of the anaesthetic Ethrane in blood and gas samples is described. Using the same GC-parameters for the analyses of gases and blood extracts, a short GC-column together with high oven temperature as well as shortening of preparation (extraction) time allows the analysis of two blood samples and one gas sample within 15 minutes' steps (the time for an additional gas sample analysis being max. 3 min). Thus a quasi simultaneous follow up of the course of anaesthesia in animals and in humans may be guaranteed.", "PMID": 434423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2153", "title": "[Enflurane anaesthesia and plasma cortisol (author's transl)].", "content": "The influence of enflurane on adrenocortical function was investigated by determining the concentration of plasma cortisol by a radioimmunoassay during general anaesthesia and abdominal operations. Thirty minutes after the start of anaesthesia with enflurane 0.8--2.0%, N2O:O2 (2:1) and pancuronium, the plasma cortisol decreased slightly in the preoperative period; it increased markedly and continuously during the intra- and postoperative period. There was no correlation between plasma concentrations of enflurane, determined by gas chromatography, and cortisol.", "contents": "[Enflurane anaesthesia and plasma cortisol (author's transl)]. The influence of enflurane on adrenocortical function was investigated by determining the concentration of plasma cortisol by a radioimmunoassay during general anaesthesia and abdominal operations. Thirty minutes after the start of anaesthesia with enflurane 0.8--2.0%, N2O:O2 (2:1) and pancuronium, the plasma cortisol decreased slightly in the preoperative period; it increased markedly and continuously during the intra- and postoperative period. There was no correlation between plasma concentrations of enflurane, determined by gas chromatography, and cortisol.", "PMID": 434424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2154", "title": "[TTC-reducing activity of alveolar macrophages under the influence of halothane and nitrous oxide (author's transl)].", "content": "In order to study the influence of two inhalational anaesthetics on metabolic activity of macrophages, we exposed alveolar macrophages (AM) from guinea pigs to both nitrous oxide (N2O) and halothane-N2O in vitro. We examined the enzymatic activity, which is bound to an intact metabolic phase, by application of the triphenyltetrazolium-chloride test (TTC-test). The content of the enzymatically to formazan reduced TTC was measured spectro-photometrically. Incubation of AM for 60 min in 1 to 4 percent halothane vaporized in air produced only a minimal, statistically insignificant depression of TTC reduction activity (TTC-RA). Halothane plus N2O-O2 (80:20) caused a statistically significant depression of TTC-RA. The reponse is graded in relation to the halothane dose. Exposure to monoanaesthesia with N2O also resulted in reduction of metabolic activity. These data demonstrate that inhalational anaesthetics inhibit the capability of AM to reduce TTC.", "contents": "[TTC-reducing activity of alveolar macrophages under the influence of halothane and nitrous oxide (author's transl)]. In order to study the influence of two inhalational anaesthetics on metabolic activity of macrophages, we exposed alveolar macrophages (AM) from guinea pigs to both nitrous oxide (N2O) and halothane-N2O in vitro. We examined the enzymatic activity, which is bound to an intact metabolic phase, by application of the triphenyltetrazolium-chloride test (TTC-test). The content of the enzymatically to formazan reduced TTC was measured spectro-photometrically. Incubation of AM for 60 min in 1 to 4 percent halothane vaporized in air produced only a minimal, statistically insignificant depression of TTC reduction activity (TTC-RA). Halothane plus N2O-O2 (80:20) caused a statistically significant depression of TTC-RA. The reponse is graded in relation to the halothane dose. Exposure to monoanaesthesia with N2O also resulted in reduction of metabolic activity. These data demonstrate that inhalational anaesthetics inhibit the capability of AM to reduce TTC.", "PMID": 434425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2155", "title": "[Investigations about the influence of halothane and enflurane on the nuclear metabolism of bronchial mucosa cells of the dog (author's transl)].", "content": "The influence of halothane and enflurane on the nuclear metabolism of bronchial mucosa cells was investigated over ten hours on 5 dogs each anaesthetized with halothane or enflurane. Desoxyribonucleinic acid (DNS) and, for the arginine and lysine-rich histone fraction the basic amino-acids arginine and lysine were measured. During the ten hours of anesthesia there was a decrease of all patterns, reversible in a control 48 hours after the end of anesthesia. The decrease of DNS and arginine was similar to each other, but that of lysine was delayed. The results indicate a reversible retardation of the nuclear metabolism. The site of action is probably in the activated zone of nucleus.", "contents": "[Investigations about the influence of halothane and enflurane on the nuclear metabolism of bronchial mucosa cells of the dog (author's transl)]. The influence of halothane and enflurane on the nuclear metabolism of bronchial mucosa cells was investigated over ten hours on 5 dogs each anaesthetized with halothane or enflurane. Desoxyribonucleinic acid (DNS) and, for the arginine and lysine-rich histone fraction the basic amino-acids arginine and lysine were measured. During the ten hours of anesthesia there was a decrease of all patterns, reversible in a control 48 hours after the end of anesthesia. The decrease of DNS and arginine was similar to each other, but that of lysine was delayed. The results indicate a reversible retardation of the nuclear metabolism. The site of action is probably in the activated zone of nucleus.", "PMID": 434426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2156", "title": "[On the problem of optimal warming and moistening of the inspired gases in controlled and assisted artificial ventilation (author's transl)].", "content": "The physiological significance of adequate temperature and humidity of respiratory gases and the problems of technical realization are demonstrated. Humidifying and warming of gases by the principle of bubbling through a heated waterbath are believed to be best. The problems with these techniques e.g. dependence of temperature and relative humidity of the gases delivered to the patient on respiratory minute volume, material of the tubing and room temperature are shown. A simple solution to these problems without the need of electrical heated tubing is offered. A new electronically controlled humidifier (H.R.P.-Humidifier 2000) with special developed tubing is presented. Optimal temperature and relative humidity of the respiratory gases is guaranteed by the high efficiency humidifier, and additional measurement and regulation of temperature close to the patients tracheal tube. The problem of increased amounts of condensed water in the tubing is solved by the H.R.P. special tracheal tube adapter with an automatic water exhaust. In addition the hygienic problems of artificial respiration can be solved optimally in combination with the complete H.R.P.-System 2000.", "contents": "[On the problem of optimal warming and moistening of the inspired gases in controlled and assisted artificial ventilation (author's transl)]. The physiological significance of adequate temperature and humidity of respiratory gases and the problems of technical realization are demonstrated. Humidifying and warming of gases by the principle of bubbling through a heated waterbath are believed to be best. The problems with these techniques e.g. dependence of temperature and relative humidity of the gases delivered to the patient on respiratory minute volume, material of the tubing and room temperature are shown. A simple solution to these problems without the need of electrical heated tubing is offered. A new electronically controlled humidifier (H.R.P.-Humidifier 2000) with special developed tubing is presented. Optimal temperature and relative humidity of the respiratory gases is guaranteed by the high efficiency humidifier, and additional measurement and regulation of temperature close to the patients tracheal tube. The problem of increased amounts of condensed water in the tubing is solved by the H.R.P. special tracheal tube adapter with an automatic water exhaust. In addition the hygienic problems of artificial respiration can be solved optimally in combination with the complete H.R.P.-System 2000.", "PMID": 434427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2157", "title": "[The influence of some inhalation anaesthetics on the intracranial pressure with special reference to nitrous oxide (author's transl)].", "content": "The influence of inhalation anaesthetics on intracranial pressure (ICP), arterial blood pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) was investigated on 12 unconscious patients with head injury having an initial ICP of about 20 mm Hg. Halothane, enflurane and nitrous oxide induced a considerable rise of ICP during a 15 to 25 minute period of observation. The moderate fall in blood pressure caused by halothane and enflurane enhanced the reduction of the calculated CPP. Besides, a regular fall in blood pressure of about 16% was observed under the influence of nitrous oxide, subsequently reducing the CPP in some cases under 40 mm Hg. Inhalation anaesthetics, including nitrous oxide, should therefore not be used in patients with decreased intracranial compliance before the increased ICP is treated.", "contents": "[The influence of some inhalation anaesthetics on the intracranial pressure with special reference to nitrous oxide (author's transl)]. The influence of inhalation anaesthetics on intracranial pressure (ICP), arterial blood pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) was investigated on 12 unconscious patients with head injury having an initial ICP of about 20 mm Hg. Halothane, enflurane and nitrous oxide induced a considerable rise of ICP during a 15 to 25 minute period of observation. The moderate fall in blood pressure caused by halothane and enflurane enhanced the reduction of the calculated CPP. Besides, a regular fall in blood pressure of about 16% was observed under the influence of nitrous oxide, subsequently reducing the CPP in some cases under 40 mm Hg. Inhalation anaesthetics, including nitrous oxide, should therefore not be used in patients with decreased intracranial compliance before the increased ICP is treated.", "PMID": 434428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2158", "title": "[Methods influencing intraoperative heat balance in the sterile enclosure (author's transl)].", "content": "More and more operations are performed in a sterile enclosure (\"Sterilboxe\") with a high fresh air turnover to achieve an optimum aseptic standard. This study investigated the question whether the climate of the \"Sterilboxe\" has a depressing effect on the body temperature of anaesthetized patients. Furthermore various devices were tested for their value in compensating for heat losses. The temperature of 55 patients was recorded during major operations. We found evidence, that there was regularly a fall of core temperature during operations in the \"Sterilboxe\", somewhat different to the behaviour of temperature in conventional theatres. Three methods for the compensation of heat loss were compared each against other and against the control whilst continually recording the oesophageal temperature. In the control group the temperature fall was 0.44 degrees C/h, in the group in which respiratory gases were optimally warmed and humidified the decrease was only 0.11 degrees C/h. Warming up all perfused liquids in a water-bath heat-exchanger showed a fall of temperature of 0.2 degrees C/h; with a Fenwal heatexchanger temperature decreased by 0.27 degrees C/h.", "contents": "[Methods influencing intraoperative heat balance in the sterile enclosure (author's transl)]. More and more operations are performed in a sterile enclosure (\"Sterilboxe\") with a high fresh air turnover to achieve an optimum aseptic standard. This study investigated the question whether the climate of the \"Sterilboxe\" has a depressing effect on the body temperature of anaesthetized patients. Furthermore various devices were tested for their value in compensating for heat losses. The temperature of 55 patients was recorded during major operations. We found evidence, that there was regularly a fall of core temperature during operations in the \"Sterilboxe\", somewhat different to the behaviour of temperature in conventional theatres. Three methods for the compensation of heat loss were compared each against other and against the control whilst continually recording the oesophageal temperature. In the control group the temperature fall was 0.44 degrees C/h, in the group in which respiratory gases were optimally warmed and humidified the decrease was only 0.11 degrees C/h. Warming up all perfused liquids in a water-bath heat-exchanger showed a fall of temperature of 0.2 degrees C/h; with a Fenwal heatexchanger temperature decreased by 0.27 degrees C/h.", "PMID": 434430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2159", "title": "[R 33812 (domperidon) i.v. and orally as antiemetic adjuvans for short anaesthetics induced with etomidate. A comparative study (author's transl)].", "content": "R 33812 is being studied as an antiemetic adjuvant to anaesthesia for minor gynecological surgery. 150 patients received 10 mg Diazepam orally as a premedication and of these 3 groups of 50 received R 33812 in doses of 4 mg or 8 mg i.v. before anaesthesia or 10 mg orally together with premedication. Between series I and II a dose-related trend p = 0,065 was observed. No side effects were reported. The pharmacological interdependence of this combination is discussed as well as the consequences for general practice especially for the improved form of oral medication with R 33812.", "contents": "[R 33812 (domperidon) i.v. and orally as antiemetic adjuvans for short anaesthetics induced with etomidate. A comparative study (author's transl)]. R 33812 is being studied as an antiemetic adjuvant to anaesthesia for minor gynecological surgery. 150 patients received 10 mg Diazepam orally as a premedication and of these 3 groups of 50 received R 33812 in doses of 4 mg or 8 mg i.v. before anaesthesia or 10 mg orally together with premedication. Between series I and II a dose-related trend p = 0,065 was observed. No side effects were reported. The pharmacological interdependence of this combination is discussed as well as the consequences for general practice especially for the improved form of oral medication with R 33812.", "PMID": 434431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2160", "title": "[Isobaric spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine and tetracaine (author's transl)].", "content": "4 ml 0.5% solutions of bupivacaine and tetracaine without the addition of a vasoconstrictor, approximately isobaric, were used for spinal anaesthesia on patients in the sitting position. The sensory and motor block due to the two local anesthetics was tested and compared. The mean time on onset of complete analgesia was the same for both local anaesthetics (9 and 11 min), as was also the highest level of analgesia (T10). The duration of maximal extension of analgesia was on an average 45 min longer due to tetracaine (bupivacaine 105 min, tetracaine 150 min). The duration of maximal spread of the blocked sensation of pain, temperature, pressure and touch was similar for each of both local anesthetics. The regression of these sensory qualities, blocked in a dissoaciated manner, took a parallel course. With tetracaine the motor block of the lower extremities developed faster and lasted longer (Bromage 3 for bupivacaine 192 min, for tetracaine 220 min). Motor function and proprioception normalized in a synchronized manner. Isobaric spinal anaesthesia with these two solutions of local anaesthetics was found to be reliable and controllable, especially when administered to the sitting patient. Tetracaine is a good alternative to bupivacaine, currently controversial for intrathecal use.", "contents": "[Isobaric spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine and tetracaine (author's transl)]. 4 ml 0.5% solutions of bupivacaine and tetracaine without the addition of a vasoconstrictor, approximately isobaric, were used for spinal anaesthesia on patients in the sitting position. The sensory and motor block due to the two local anesthetics was tested and compared. The mean time on onset of complete analgesia was the same for both local anaesthetics (9 and 11 min), as was also the highest level of analgesia (T10). The duration of maximal extension of analgesia was on an average 45 min longer due to tetracaine (bupivacaine 105 min, tetracaine 150 min). The duration of maximal spread of the blocked sensation of pain, temperature, pressure and touch was similar for each of both local anesthetics. The regression of these sensory qualities, blocked in a dissoaciated manner, took a parallel course. With tetracaine the motor block of the lower extremities developed faster and lasted longer (Bromage 3 for bupivacaine 192 min, for tetracaine 220 min). Motor function and proprioception normalized in a synchronized manner. Isobaric spinal anaesthesia with these two solutions of local anaesthetics was found to be reliable and controllable, especially when administered to the sitting patient. Tetracaine is a good alternative to bupivacaine, currently controversial for intrathecal use.", "PMID": 434434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2161", "title": "[Plasmacortisol and parturition under epidural anaesthesia (author's transl)].", "content": "Plasma cortisol was determined by a radioimmuno assay during labour, at and after delivery in 16 primigravidas und epidural anaesthesia and was compared with 13 primigravidas, who delivered under pentazocine or pethidine and pudendal block. Cortisol levels decreased after effective epidural anaesthesia during the first stage of labor and for delivery. They increased in the control patients for delivery and was significantly higher than in the patients under epidural anaesthesia. Two and 20 hours post partum cortisol concentrations decreased in both groups. Cortisol levels in the fetuses and newborns was markedly lower than those of mothers. At delivery, the cortisol concentration of the newborns of both groups was the same. The changes of cortisol concentrations in this study support the conclusion that epidural anaesthesia during labor and delivery reduces stress for the mother, but not for the fetus.", "contents": "[Plasmacortisol and parturition under epidural anaesthesia (author's transl)]. Plasma cortisol was determined by a radioimmuno assay during labour, at and after delivery in 16 primigravidas und epidural anaesthesia and was compared with 13 primigravidas, who delivered under pentazocine or pethidine and pudendal block. Cortisol levels decreased after effective epidural anaesthesia during the first stage of labor and for delivery. They increased in the control patients for delivery and was significantly higher than in the patients under epidural anaesthesia. Two and 20 hours post partum cortisol concentrations decreased in both groups. Cortisol levels in the fetuses and newborns was markedly lower than those of mothers. At delivery, the cortisol concentration of the newborns of both groups was the same. The changes of cortisol concentrations in this study support the conclusion that epidural anaesthesia during labor and delivery reduces stress for the mother, but not for the fetus.", "PMID": 434435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2162", "title": "[Comparative studies during continuous epidural analgesia in obstetric (author's transl)].", "content": "From 1975 on, continuous epidural analgesia has been administered at the University Department of Anaesthetics in Ulm to women for pain relief during labour. One group of 350 pregnant women received bupivacaine hydrochloride, from 1. 5. 1976 to 30. 4. 1977, another group of 350 women received bupivacaine carbonate during the period from 1. 5. 1977 to 30. 11. 1977. Within these two groups the different effects of both local anaesthetic agents were compared in respect of the course of labour, the indications for epidural analgesia, the practicability of epidural analgesia, complications during labour, the rate of pain relief, the frequency of operative deliveries and the clinical condition of the newborn. The main advantages of bupivacaine carbonate for obstetric analgesia purposes are demonstrated.", "contents": "[Comparative studies during continuous epidural analgesia in obstetric (author's transl)]. From 1975 on, continuous epidural analgesia has been administered at the University Department of Anaesthetics in Ulm to women for pain relief during labour. One group of 350 pregnant women received bupivacaine hydrochloride, from 1. 5. 1976 to 30. 4. 1977, another group of 350 women received bupivacaine carbonate during the period from 1. 5. 1977 to 30. 11. 1977. Within these two groups the different effects of both local anaesthetic agents were compared in respect of the course of labour, the indications for epidural analgesia, the practicability of epidural analgesia, complications during labour, the rate of pain relief, the frequency of operative deliveries and the clinical condition of the newborn. The main advantages of bupivacaine carbonate for obstetric analgesia purposes are demonstrated.", "PMID": 434436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2163", "title": "[Abolition of hypotension following spinal anaesthesia by dihydroergotamine (DHE) (author's transl)].", "content": "The conduction block of the preganglionic sympathetic fibres in spina anaesthesia leads to peripheral vasodilation. Such a loss of tone in blood vessels is also pronounced on the venous side. Therefore the effects of intravenously administered DHE (10 microgram/kg i.v.) on 25 healthy patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia were studied. Though all patients were preinfused with 500 ml Ringer there was a sustained decrease in arterial and pulmonary artery pressures (p less than 0.001). However, the heart rate remained unaffected. After DHE the pressure changes were completely reversed whereas heart rate was significantly decreased (p less than 0.001). The effects of DHE can largely be explained by its powerful and selective action on the capacitance vessels in the peripheral circulation. The increased venous return to the heart augments ventricular filling. Perfusion pressure is increased without any concomitant myocardial stimulation. The results indicate that DHE can have a beneficial effect in patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia.", "contents": "[Abolition of hypotension following spinal anaesthesia by dihydroergotamine (DHE) (author's transl)]. The conduction block of the preganglionic sympathetic fibres in spina anaesthesia leads to peripheral vasodilation. Such a loss of tone in blood vessels is also pronounced on the venous side. Therefore the effects of intravenously administered DHE (10 microgram/kg i.v.) on 25 healthy patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia were studied. Though all patients were preinfused with 500 ml Ringer there was a sustained decrease in arterial and pulmonary artery pressures (p less than 0.001). However, the heart rate remained unaffected. After DHE the pressure changes were completely reversed whereas heart rate was significantly decreased (p less than 0.001). The effects of DHE can largely be explained by its powerful and selective action on the capacitance vessels in the peripheral circulation. The increased venous return to the heart augments ventricular filling. Perfusion pressure is increased without any concomitant myocardial stimulation. The results indicate that DHE can have a beneficial effect in patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia.", "PMID": 434437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2164", "title": "A pharmacokinetic approach to postoperative pain: continuous infusion of pethidine.", "content": "In an attempt to improve postoperative pain management an intravenous infusion of pethidine was designed to provide stable therapeutic blood concentrations. Ten female patients undergoing elective abdominal hysterectomy were studied. After commencement of the infusion, blood pethidine concentrations increased rapidly and exceeded 0.46 microgram/ml after four hours. The mean steady-state concentration of 0.67 microgram/ml was reached by twenty-four hours. This infusion regimen resulted in the abolition of severe pain after three hours and analgesia continued for the duration of the two day study. Significant blood concentrations of the metabolite norpethidine were found although clinically no toxic effects were observed. Side effects of pethidine were infrequent. Controlled continuous intravenous infusion of pethidine produced stable blood concentrations and provided excellent pain control.", "contents": "A pharmacokinetic approach to postoperative pain: continuous infusion of pethidine. In an attempt to improve postoperative pain management an intravenous infusion of pethidine was designed to provide stable therapeutic blood concentrations. Ten female patients undergoing elective abdominal hysterectomy were studied. After commencement of the infusion, blood pethidine concentrations increased rapidly and exceeded 0.46 microgram/ml after four hours. The mean steady-state concentration of 0.67 microgram/ml was reached by twenty-four hours. This infusion regimen resulted in the abolition of severe pain after three hours and analgesia continued for the duration of the two day study. Significant blood concentrations of the metabolite norpethidine were found although clinically no toxic effects were observed. Side effects of pethidine were infrequent. Controlled continuous intravenous infusion of pethidine produced stable blood concentrations and provided excellent pain control.", "PMID": 434438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2165", "title": "Blood glucose changes during neurosurgery.", "content": "Blood glucose levels were studied prospectively in 40 patients undergoing elective major craniotomy. A significant (p less than 0.01) hyperglycaemic response was noted after scalp infiltration with adrenaline and incision (0.5 mmol/l) and with continued surgery (0.9 mmol/l). Patients aged 50 years and under showed a significantly greater rise with adrenaline and incision than older patients (0.8 compared with 0.4 mmol/l p less than 0.01). Preoperative high dose steroid therapy did not modify the response. Blood glucose changes were unrelated to sex, obesity, a family history of diabetes, the duration of starvation, intraoperative body temperature, anaesthetic technique, induced hypotension or blood loss.", "contents": "Blood glucose changes during neurosurgery. Blood glucose levels were studied prospectively in 40 patients undergoing elective major craniotomy. A significant (p less than 0.01) hyperglycaemic response was noted after scalp infiltration with adrenaline and incision (0.5 mmol/l) and with continued surgery (0.9 mmol/l). Patients aged 50 years and under showed a significantly greater rise with adrenaline and incision than older patients (0.8 compared with 0.4 mmol/l p less than 0.01). Preoperative high dose steroid therapy did not modify the response. Blood glucose changes were unrelated to sex, obesity, a family history of diabetes, the duration of starvation, intraoperative body temperature, anaesthetic technique, induced hypotension or blood loss.", "PMID": 434441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2166", "title": "Status epilepticus controlled by althesin infusion.", "content": "Althesin will control status epilepticus when other agents fail. Its major advantage over other agents is its lack of accumulation because it is readily metabolized. Three patients are reported and relevant literature is discussed.", "contents": "Status epilepticus controlled by althesin infusion. Althesin will control status epilepticus when other agents fail. Its major advantage over other agents is its lack of accumulation because it is readily metabolized. Three patients are reported and relevant literature is discussed.", "PMID": 434443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2167", "title": "Clinical report: interscalene block for shoulder operations.", "content": "Administration of adequate volumes of local anaesthetic through a single injection into the interscalene space produces blockade of both the brachial and cervical plexuses. A report of 2 patients who underwent operative repair of recurrent dislocation of the shoulder under interscalene block is presented. The advantages and disadvantages of the block for surgery around the shoulder region, and the possible complications are discussed.", "contents": "Clinical report: interscalene block for shoulder operations. Administration of adequate volumes of local anaesthetic through a single injection into the interscalene space produces blockade of both the brachial and cervical plexuses. A report of 2 patients who underwent operative repair of recurrent dislocation of the shoulder under interscalene block is presented. The advantages and disadvantages of the block for surgery around the shoulder region, and the possible complications are discussed.", "PMID": 434444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2168", "title": "Intradermal testing in the diagnosis of acute anaphylaxis during anaesthesia--results of five years experience.", "content": "Intradermal testing has been used in the diagnosis of acute anaphylactic reactions during anaesthesia in 51 patients. Positive results occurred in 32 patients and confirmation was possible in 26. Only in one case did a combination of history and intradermal testing not give a diagnosis. Nine of the negative results were confirmed. Intradermal testing is of no value in the diagnosis of reactions to local anaesthetics or colloids but has great value in determining the cause of reactions due to induction agents or muscle relaxants if performed under controlled conditions. It is safe, and requires no expertise in performance or interpretation.", "contents": "Intradermal testing in the diagnosis of acute anaphylaxis during anaesthesia--results of five years experience. Intradermal testing has been used in the diagnosis of acute anaphylactic reactions during anaesthesia in 51 patients. Positive results occurred in 32 patients and confirmation was possible in 26. Only in one case did a combination of history and intradermal testing not give a diagnosis. Nine of the negative results were confirmed. Intradermal testing is of no value in the diagnosis of reactions to local anaesthetics or colloids but has great value in determining the cause of reactions due to induction agents or muscle relaxants if performed under controlled conditions. It is safe, and requires no expertise in performance or interpretation.", "PMID": 434446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2169", "title": "Severe bronchospasm in an asthmatic patient following alcuronium and D-tubocurarine.", "content": "An asthmatic patient developed intense bronchospasm immediately following the administration of alcuronium and d-tubocurarine in the same anaesthetic. Intradermal test was positive for both of these drugs but negative for thiopentone and suxamethonium, both of which were given prior to alcuronium. The differential diagnosis and the possible mechanism of the reaction are discussed.", "contents": "Severe bronchospasm in an asthmatic patient following alcuronium and D-tubocurarine. An asthmatic patient developed intense bronchospasm immediately following the administration of alcuronium and d-tubocurarine in the same anaesthetic. Intradermal test was positive for both of these drugs but negative for thiopentone and suxamethonium, both of which were given prior to alcuronium. The differential diagnosis and the possible mechanism of the reaction are discussed.", "PMID": 434447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2170", "title": "Beware -- the use of MAO inhibitors is increasing again.", "content": "The use of monoamineoxidase inhibitors in the treatment of depression is increasing again in Australia. This paper outlines changes in prescribing, the problems associated with monoamineoxidase (MAO) inhibitors and how they relate to the practice of anaesthesia.", "contents": "Beware -- the use of MAO inhibitors is increasing again. The use of monoamineoxidase inhibitors in the treatment of depression is increasing again in Australia. This paper outlines changes in prescribing, the problems associated with monoamineoxidase (MAO) inhibitors and how they relate to the practice of anaesthesia.", "PMID": 434448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2171", "title": "A versatile antipollution device.", "content": "Removal of anaesthetic pollutants from the operating theatre environment requires the use of relatively sophisticated equipment which must be added to an existing life support system (the anaesthetic machine). The interface is only one part of this system and to be safe and satisfactory it must be as simple and versatile as possible and be designed in such a way as to render incorrect connection and use virtually impossible.", "contents": "A versatile antipollution device. Removal of anaesthetic pollutants from the operating theatre environment requires the use of relatively sophisticated equipment which must be added to an existing life support system (the anaesthetic machine). The interface is only one part of this system and to be safe and satisfactory it must be as simple and versatile as possible and be designed in such a way as to render incorrect connection and use virtually impossible.", "PMID": 434449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2172", "title": "Hepatotoxicity and halothane metabolism in an animal model with application for human toxicity.", "content": "Centrilobular necrosis and a ten-fold elevation in serum alanine amino-transferase (ALT) consistently followed 2 hours of 1% halothane anaesthesia in an animal model. Conditional factors were the presence of enzyme induction and moderate hypoxia (14% oxygen), indicating an association between reductive metabolism and hepatotoxicity. Under these conditions there was at least a four-fold increase in reductive metabolites detected in the exhaled air. In clinical studies, reductive metabolites were also detected in the exhaled air of all patients examined, even after halothane anaesthesia with 100% oxygen. The amounts of reductive metabolites were comparable in man and the model, following equivalent halothane doses. It appears that a model with a similar route and rate of halothane biotransformation to man has been identified. The lesion of halothane hepatotoxicity in this model appears to be similar to that reported in man - centrilobular hepatic necrosis.", "contents": "Hepatotoxicity and halothane metabolism in an animal model with application for human toxicity. Centrilobular necrosis and a ten-fold elevation in serum alanine amino-transferase (ALT) consistently followed 2 hours of 1% halothane anaesthesia in an animal model. Conditional factors were the presence of enzyme induction and moderate hypoxia (14% oxygen), indicating an association between reductive metabolism and hepatotoxicity. Under these conditions there was at least a four-fold increase in reductive metabolites detected in the exhaled air. In clinical studies, reductive metabolites were also detected in the exhaled air of all patients examined, even after halothane anaesthesia with 100% oxygen. The amounts of reductive metabolites were comparable in man and the model, following equivalent halothane doses. It appears that a model with a similar route and rate of halothane biotransformation to man has been identified. The lesion of halothane hepatotoxicity in this model appears to be similar to that reported in man - centrilobular hepatic necrosis.", "PMID": 434454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2173", "title": "Skull growth after partial prospective lower beak extirpation in chick embryos.", "content": "On one side of chick embryos in stage 28, part of the prospective lower beak or the entire prospective lower beak anterior to the buccal corner was removed surgically (CLB-A and CLB-B embryos, respectively). In another group the prospective lower beak was split in the midsagittal plane (CMS embryos). The controls were shame-operated embryos (CS). The skulls of stage 39 CLB-A and CLB-B embryos showed changes in the lower beak as well as in the skull base, the pterygoid, the quadrate, the palatine, and the upper beak. Stage 39 CMS embryos showed shortening of the dentary and Meckel's cartilage. At the tip of the CMS mandible, an excessive amount of osseous material was found. The results support Dullemeijer's (1974) views concerning the issue of dependency of functional components. The value of a combined developmental and functional approach to morphology, i.e., integrated investigation of development of structure and function of the beaks and related jaw musculature, is discussed.", "contents": "Skull growth after partial prospective lower beak extirpation in chick embryos. On one side of chick embryos in stage 28, part of the prospective lower beak or the entire prospective lower beak anterior to the buccal corner was removed surgically (CLB-A and CLB-B embryos, respectively). In another group the prospective lower beak was split in the midsagittal plane (CMS embryos). The controls were shame-operated embryos (CS). The skulls of stage 39 CLB-A and CLB-B embryos showed changes in the lower beak as well as in the skull base, the pterygoid, the quadrate, the palatine, and the upper beak. Stage 39 CMS embryos showed shortening of the dentary and Meckel's cartilage. At the tip of the CMS mandible, an excessive amount of osseous material was found. The results support Dullemeijer's (1974) views concerning the issue of dependency of functional components. The value of a combined developmental and functional approach to morphology, i.e., integrated investigation of development of structure and function of the beaks and related jaw musculature, is discussed.", "PMID": 434476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2174", "title": "Angioarchitecture of the canine thyroid gland.", "content": "The extrinsic vasculature of the canine thyroid gland was compared to that of the human and it was considered possible that the dog does not possess a caudal thyroid artery, as often described in the literature. The thyroid capsule was relatively thin in the dog and its trabeculae appeared histologically to be continuous with the tunica adventitia of the blood vessels. The intrinsic vascular pattern simulated the lobular structure and the blood vessels were named according to their relationship, course, and major area of supply inside the gland. The veins and lymphatics were satellite to the arteries and were designated homonymously. The lymph capillaries were more closely associated to the follicular epithelium than were the blood capillaries.", "contents": "Angioarchitecture of the canine thyroid gland. The extrinsic vasculature of the canine thyroid gland was compared to that of the human and it was considered possible that the dog does not possess a caudal thyroid artery, as often described in the literature. The thyroid capsule was relatively thin in the dog and its trabeculae appeared histologically to be continuous with the tunica adventitia of the blood vessels. The intrinsic vascular pattern simulated the lobular structure and the blood vessels were named according to their relationship, course, and major area of supply inside the gland. The veins and lymphatics were satellite to the arteries and were designated homonymously. The lymph capillaries were more closely associated to the follicular epithelium than were the blood capillaries.", "PMID": 434477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2175", "title": "[Enzyme histochemical studies on the epithelium of the epididymis of the tomcat (author's transl)].", "content": "The histochemical localization of some oxidoreductases was investigated in the epididymides of adult tomcats. Succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, beta-hydroxybutyrate-dehydrogenase revealed their highest activity in corpus and cauda epididymidis whereas glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase was strongest in the caput. The activity of the diaphorases and of cytochrome oxidase in the epididymal epithelium increased from caput towards the cauda epididymidis. The reaction for isocitrate dehydrogenase was distinct throughout the whole length of the ductus epididymidis. Our findings were compared with the biochemical results of other authors and the functions of the oxidoreductases in the epididymal epithelium were briefly discussed.", "contents": "[Enzyme histochemical studies on the epithelium of the epididymis of the tomcat (author's transl)]. The histochemical localization of some oxidoreductases was investigated in the epididymides of adult tomcats. Succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, beta-hydroxybutyrate-dehydrogenase revealed their highest activity in corpus and cauda epididymidis whereas glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase was strongest in the caput. The activity of the diaphorases and of cytochrome oxidase in the epididymal epithelium increased from caput towards the cauda epididymidis. The reaction for isocitrate dehydrogenase was distinct throughout the whole length of the ductus epididymidis. Our findings were compared with the biochemical results of other authors and the functions of the oxidoreductases in the epididymal epithelium were briefly discussed.", "PMID": 434479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2176", "title": "[Increase functions of the type dw/dt = kwm(te--t)q and their integrals (author's transl)].", "content": "In consequent continuation of the investigations into the increase functions dW/dt = kWm(En--Wn), dW/dt = kWm(E--W)n and dW/dt = ktp (E--W)n the type dW/dt = kWm(tE--t)q with q greater than 0 is added. As in the last paper, 2 cases of integration have to be distinguished, namely for m = 1 and 0 less than m less than 1 respectively. In both cases adultness W = E is reached after a finite time tE. A quite different aspect results for the turning point of the growth function with the ordinate covering values between E/e and E for m = 1 and from 0 up to a maximum and down to E/e when 0 less than m less than 1. As in former papers graphs give an illustration of the variability of the growth curves and the increase functions. The already used example is taken up and shows a fargoing neighbourhood of the growth functions resulting from dW/dt = kWm (tE--t)q and dW/dt = ktp (E--W)n, thus hinting that quite different increase equations can lead to similar results.", "contents": "[Increase functions of the type dw/dt = kwm(te--t)q and their integrals (author's transl)]. In consequent continuation of the investigations into the increase functions dW/dt = kWm(En--Wn), dW/dt = kWm(E--W)n and dW/dt = ktp (E--W)n the type dW/dt = kWm(tE--t)q with q greater than 0 is added. As in the last paper, 2 cases of integration have to be distinguished, namely for m = 1 and 0 less than m less than 1 respectively. In both cases adultness W = E is reached after a finite time tE. A quite different aspect results for the turning point of the growth function with the ordinate covering values between E/e and E for m = 1 and from 0 up to a maximum and down to E/e when 0 less than m less than 1. As in former papers graphs give an illustration of the variability of the growth curves and the increase functions. The already used example is taken up and shows a fargoing neighbourhood of the growth functions resulting from dW/dt = kWm (tE--t)q and dW/dt = ktp (E--W)n, thus hinting that quite different increase equations can lead to similar results.", "PMID": 434480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2177", "title": "The suprascapular artery: case report of an unusual origin.", "content": "A case is presented where certain branches of the right subclavian artery had unusual origins. The thyrocervical trunk was missing, the transverse cervical artery occupying its place. The inferior thyroid artery arose from the common carotid, and the suprascapular from the dorsal scapular artery. Pertinent literature on the suprascapular artery is reviewed.", "contents": "The suprascapular artery: case report of an unusual origin. A case is presented where certain branches of the right subclavian artery had unusual origins. The thyrocervical trunk was missing, the transverse cervical artery occupying its place. The inferior thyroid artery arose from the common carotid, and the suprascapular from the dorsal scapular artery. Pertinent literature on the suprascapular artery is reviewed.", "PMID": 434481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2178", "title": "[On the ultrastructure of the lacrimal gland in pigs (Sus scropha L.) (author's transl)].", "content": "The lacrimal gland of pigs has been investigated light- and electron microscopically. Among others the results are as follows: 1. The lacrimal gland of pigs is a tubuloacinar or compound acinar gland. Acini often are elongated. Tubuli and acini are enclosed in a basal lamina with some myoepithelial cells. 2. Tubuli and acini consist of mucoserous, mucous and serous cells. Mucoserous cells predominate and show secretory granules with a typical bipartite structure. 3. Like salivary glands, the lacrimal gland of pigs has a prominent duct system. Intercalated ducts have a stratified cuboidal epithelium. The cells of the proximal part contain secretory granules. The intercalated duct continues into the striated duct. Cells here are tall or columnar in shape and show basal striation, which by electron microscopy is resolved as basal invaginations of the plasma membrane with numerous elongated mitochondria in the pockets of cytoplasm so formed. Excretory ducts commence with pseudostratified columnar epithelium. 4. Terminal nerve fibres penetrate the basal lamina and make contakt with the glandular cells, the myoepithelial cells and the duct cells. The terminal axons contain abundantly synaptic vesicles, sporadic dense cored vesicles and mitochondria. Until now, we could not find any specialized presynaptic or postsynaptic membranes.", "contents": "[On the ultrastructure of the lacrimal gland in pigs (Sus scropha L.) (author's transl)]. The lacrimal gland of pigs has been investigated light- and electron microscopically. Among others the results are as follows: 1. The lacrimal gland of pigs is a tubuloacinar or compound acinar gland. Acini often are elongated. Tubuli and acini are enclosed in a basal lamina with some myoepithelial cells. 2. Tubuli and acini consist of mucoserous, mucous and serous cells. Mucoserous cells predominate and show secretory granules with a typical bipartite structure. 3. Like salivary glands, the lacrimal gland of pigs has a prominent duct system. Intercalated ducts have a stratified cuboidal epithelium. The cells of the proximal part contain secretory granules. The intercalated duct continues into the striated duct. Cells here are tall or columnar in shape and show basal striation, which by electron microscopy is resolved as basal invaginations of the plasma membrane with numerous elongated mitochondria in the pockets of cytoplasm so formed. Excretory ducts commence with pseudostratified columnar epithelium. 4. Terminal nerve fibres penetrate the basal lamina and make contakt with the glandular cells, the myoepithelial cells and the duct cells. The terminal axons contain abundantly synaptic vesicles, sporadic dense cored vesicles and mitochondria. Until now, we could not find any specialized presynaptic or postsynaptic membranes.", "PMID": 434482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2179", "title": "Rationale for dantrolene vs. procainamide for treatment of malignant hyperthermia.", "content": "The use of procainamide or procaine for treatment of malignant hyperthermia is commonly recommended. The skeletal muscle relaxant dantrolene has also been indicated for treatment of this complication during anesthesia. In the present study, effects of procainamide and dantrolene were compared in malignant hyperthemia-susceptible (MHS) pigs in vivo and on MHS muscle from human patients in vitro. The ED50 for dantrolene block of indirectly evoked twitch tension was 0.85 mg/kg in MHS pigs. A final cumulative dose of 2 mg/kg resulted in 68 per cent block of the twitch response. In contrast, procainamide at a final cumulative dose of 14 mg/kg had no effect on twitch response of the MHS pigs. Dantrolene, 3 micrometer, in vitro (approximately 0.8 mg/kg in vivo) was effective in preventing or reversing the abnormal halothane-induced contracture response of human MHS muscle strips. Procainamide, 0.11 mM, a dose approximating clinical levels (about 22 mg/kg), had no effect on basal twitch response or on the abnormal halothan-induced contracture of MHS human muscle. These results confirm the effectiveness of dantrolene and the lack of effectiveness of procainamide in the treatment of malignant hyperthemia.", "contents": "Rationale for dantrolene vs. procainamide for treatment of malignant hyperthermia. The use of procainamide or procaine for treatment of malignant hyperthermia is commonly recommended. The skeletal muscle relaxant dantrolene has also been indicated for treatment of this complication during anesthesia. In the present study, effects of procainamide and dantrolene were compared in malignant hyperthemia-susceptible (MHS) pigs in vivo and on MHS muscle from human patients in vitro. The ED50 for dantrolene block of indirectly evoked twitch tension was 0.85 mg/kg in MHS pigs. A final cumulative dose of 2 mg/kg resulted in 68 per cent block of the twitch response. In contrast, procainamide at a final cumulative dose of 14 mg/kg had no effect on twitch response of the MHS pigs. Dantrolene, 3 micrometer, in vitro (approximately 0.8 mg/kg in vivo) was effective in preventing or reversing the abnormal halothane-induced contracture response of human MHS muscle strips. Procainamide, 0.11 mM, a dose approximating clinical levels (about 22 mg/kg), had no effect on basal twitch response or on the abnormal halothan-induced contracture of MHS human muscle. These results confirm the effectiveness of dantrolene and the lack of effectiveness of procainamide in the treatment of malignant hyperthemia.", "PMID": 434484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2180", "title": "Halothane hepatotoxicity and fluoride production in mice and rats.", "content": "Other investigators have demonstrated halothane-induced hepatic injury in rats anesthetized in hypoxic environments. The authors examined this phenomenon in mice and investigated plasma fluoride levels in mice and rats anesthetized with halothane in 40, 21 and 7 per cent oxygen with or without pretreatment with phenobarbital or carbon tetrachloride. They found no hepatic necrosis in mice. Mice produced less fluoride than rats. This difference in halothane metabolism between Sprague-Dawley rats and Swiss-Webster mice may explain the failure to observe hepatic necrosis in mice.", "contents": "Halothane hepatotoxicity and fluoride production in mice and rats. Other investigators have demonstrated halothane-induced hepatic injury in rats anesthetized in hypoxic environments. The authors examined this phenomenon in mice and investigated plasma fluoride levels in mice and rats anesthetized with halothane in 40, 21 and 7 per cent oxygen with or without pretreatment with phenobarbital or carbon tetrachloride. They found no hepatic necrosis in mice. Mice produced less fluoride than rats. This difference in halothane metabolism between Sprague-Dawley rats and Swiss-Webster mice may explain the failure to observe hepatic necrosis in mice.", "PMID": 434485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2181", "title": "Halothane-induced renal vasodilation.", "content": "Halothane-induced changes in renal function have generally been attributed to alterations in systemic hemodynamics, sympathetic tone, and various hormones. Studies were performed to determine whether halothane directly affects the kidney. Twenty-one canine kidneys were perfused in vitro utilizing hemodilution, pulsatile flow, and membrane oxygenation. Temperature and arterial blood-gas variables were controlled and mean and pulse pressures were maintained. Four experimental periods (I-IV)(each consisting of two 10-min sample collection periods) were conducted, with a 20-min \"rest\" period between succeeding experimental periods (elapsed time = 140 min). Responsiveness was assured by obtaining a normal response to furosemide, acetylcholine, or epinephrine after Period IV. In eight additional kidney preparations halothane was administered to achieve either a \"low\" (17 +/- 3 mg/100 ml) or \"high\" (35 +/- 5 mg/100 ml) concentration in Period II, the sequence reversed for Period III, and halothane eliminated by Period IV. Halothane produced marked increases in blood flow (21-26 per cent), total (203-267 per cent) and fractional (173-179 per cent) sodium excretion, osmolal clearance (62-111 per cent) and urinary volume (130-161 per cent). These changes were associated with a shift of microspheres from outer to inner cortex, and were completely reversible by eliminating the halothane. In the absence of external influences, halothane produces renal vasodilation and natriuresis. Direct tubular depression cannot be ruled out.", "contents": "Halothane-induced renal vasodilation. Halothane-induced changes in renal function have generally been attributed to alterations in systemic hemodynamics, sympathetic tone, and various hormones. Studies were performed to determine whether halothane directly affects the kidney. Twenty-one canine kidneys were perfused in vitro utilizing hemodilution, pulsatile flow, and membrane oxygenation. Temperature and arterial blood-gas variables were controlled and mean and pulse pressures were maintained. Four experimental periods (I-IV)(each consisting of two 10-min sample collection periods) were conducted, with a 20-min \"rest\" period between succeeding experimental periods (elapsed time = 140 min). Responsiveness was assured by obtaining a normal response to furosemide, acetylcholine, or epinephrine after Period IV. In eight additional kidney preparations halothane was administered to achieve either a \"low\" (17 +/- 3 mg/100 ml) or \"high\" (35 +/- 5 mg/100 ml) concentration in Period II, the sequence reversed for Period III, and halothane eliminated by Period IV. Halothane produced marked increases in blood flow (21-26 per cent), total (203-267 per cent) and fractional (173-179 per cent) sodium excretion, osmolal clearance (62-111 per cent) and urinary volume (130-161 per cent). These changes were associated with a shift of microspheres from outer to inner cortex, and were completely reversible by eliminating the halothane. In the absence of external influences, halothane produces renal vasodilation and natriuresis. Direct tubular depression cannot be ruled out.", "PMID": 434486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2182", "title": "Alteration by enflurane of Electrophysiologic correlates of search in short-term memory.", "content": "Effects of controlled subanesthetic concentrations of enflurane on short-term memory functions and associated scalp evoked potentials were studied in eight male volunteers. Short-term memory processes were assessed through a search task. A series of digits (one, three, five, seven, nine, or 11 digits in each series) was presented visually, followed by a test digit, which in half of the trials was part of the series, and in half of the trials was not. The subject responded by pressing one of two switches, signalling \"yes\" or \"no\" accordingly. Averaged evoked potentials elicited by the test digit were obtained from seven sites on the scalp. End-tidal enflurane concentrations between 0.12 and 0.25 per cent increased significantly by 30-40 msec the latency of the components of the evoked potentials reflecting sensory processing, but did not affect their amplitude significantly. This increase could not explain the 287-msec increase in reaction time. Amplitude of late components of the averaged potential reflecting information processing was markedly decreased, which the authors interpret as indicating increased trial-to-trial variation in latency of the late component. The authors conclude that enflurane delays and introduces variance into the short-term memory processes and subsequent decision processes that preced overt responses.", "contents": "Alteration by enflurane of Electrophysiologic correlates of search in short-term memory. Effects of controlled subanesthetic concentrations of enflurane on short-term memory functions and associated scalp evoked potentials were studied in eight male volunteers. Short-term memory processes were assessed through a search task. A series of digits (one, three, five, seven, nine, or 11 digits in each series) was presented visually, followed by a test digit, which in half of the trials was part of the series, and in half of the trials was not. The subject responded by pressing one of two switches, signalling \"yes\" or \"no\" accordingly. Averaged evoked potentials elicited by the test digit were obtained from seven sites on the scalp. End-tidal enflurane concentrations between 0.12 and 0.25 per cent increased significantly by 30-40 msec the latency of the components of the evoked potentials reflecting sensory processing, but did not affect their amplitude significantly. This increase could not explain the 287-msec increase in reaction time. Amplitude of late components of the averaged potential reflecting information processing was markedly decreased, which the authors interpret as indicating increased trial-to-trial variation in latency of the late component. The authors conclude that enflurane delays and introduces variance into the short-term memory processes and subsequent decision processes that preced overt responses.", "PMID": 434498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2183", "title": "Morphine decreases peripheral vascular resistance and increases capacitance in man.", "content": "The response of the human peripheral circulation to morphine in large doeses independent of cardiac and respiratory influences has not been delineated. In 28 patients during cardiopulmonary bypass, alterations of peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) and capacitance in response to rapid arterial injection of morphine, 0.5 mg/kg or 1 mg/kg alone, or preceeded by promethazine, 1 mg/kg, naloxone, 10 mug/kg, or naloxone, 20 mug/kg, were recorded over 15 min at a constant perfusion rate. Both doses of morphine decreased PVR by 46 percent at 2 min, with values returning to control at 9 min. When promethazine preceded morphine, the decrease in PVR after morphine was 25 percent. Naloxone did not alter the response. An increase in capacitance of 600 ml observed 5 min after morphine administration did not revert to control after 15 min, and was unaltered by prior administration of naloxone.", "contents": "Morphine decreases peripheral vascular resistance and increases capacitance in man. The response of the human peripheral circulation to morphine in large doeses independent of cardiac and respiratory influences has not been delineated. In 28 patients during cardiopulmonary bypass, alterations of peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) and capacitance in response to rapid arterial injection of morphine, 0.5 mg/kg or 1 mg/kg alone, or preceeded by promethazine, 1 mg/kg, naloxone, 10 mug/kg, or naloxone, 20 mug/kg, were recorded over 15 min at a constant perfusion rate. Both doses of morphine decreased PVR by 46 percent at 2 min, with values returning to control at 9 min. When promethazine preceded morphine, the decrease in PVR after morphine was 25 percent. Naloxone did not alter the response. An increase in capacitance of 600 ml observed 5 min after morphine administration did not revert to control after 15 min, and was unaltered by prior administration of naloxone.", "PMID": 434499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2184", "title": "Humidity and the anesthetized patient.", "content": "Damage to the ciliated cells of the tracheobronchial tree and incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications were measured by point-scoring systems in 202 patients who breathed dry and humidified anesthetic gases for 225 +/- 78 min. The incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications decreased as the humidity of administered anesthetic gases increased from 0 to 32.5 mg H2O/l. A similar relationship was found between the amount of inhaled moisture and the damage to the ciliated epithelium of the tracheobronchial tree. These results appear to indicate that a high inspired humidity is beneficial for operations on normothermic patients, and that cellular damage caused by dryness is a possible contributory factor in the production of the pulmonary atelectasis that follows stoppage of the mucociliary transport system in the immmediate postoperative period.", "contents": "Humidity and the anesthetized patient. Damage to the ciliated cells of the tracheobronchial tree and incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications were measured by point-scoring systems in 202 patients who breathed dry and humidified anesthetic gases for 225 +/- 78 min. The incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications decreased as the humidity of administered anesthetic gases increased from 0 to 32.5 mg H2O/l. A similar relationship was found between the amount of inhaled moisture and the damage to the ciliated epithelium of the tracheobronchial tree. These results appear to indicate that a high inspired humidity is beneficial for operations on normothermic patients, and that cellular damage caused by dryness is a possible contributory factor in the production of the pulmonary atelectasis that follows stoppage of the mucociliary transport system in the immmediate postoperative period.", "PMID": 434502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2185", "title": "Pre- and postsynaptic effects of pancuronium at the neuromuscular junction of the mouse.", "content": "The dose-effectiveness of pancuronium as it relates to membrane potentials, action potentials, electrical membrane constants, miniature endplate potentials, endplate potentials, and quantal release was studied in murine phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparations in vitro. Emphasis was placed on comparison of presynaptic with postsynaptic effects of pancuronium under similar experimental conditions. At low concentrations of pancuronium (5 X 10(-8) g/ml or less), no presynaptic effect was found. At high concentration (5 X 10(-7) g/ml), pancuronium depressed quantal release to 26 per cent of control in cut-fiber preparations and 40 per cent of control in high-magnesium preparations. Postsynaptic effects as measured by the amplitude of miniature endplate potentials and relative depolarization induced by 20 microns carbachol, revealed depression to 16 and 22 per cent of control, respectively, at a pancuronium concentration of 5 X 10(-7) g/ml. Pancuronium had no effect on directly elicited action potentials and electrical membrane constants. The authors conclude that presynaptic as well as postsynaptic effects of pancuronium in paralytic doses are essential in contributing to the total efficacy of neuromuscular depression.", "contents": "Pre- and postsynaptic effects of pancuronium at the neuromuscular junction of the mouse. The dose-effectiveness of pancuronium as it relates to membrane potentials, action potentials, electrical membrane constants, miniature endplate potentials, endplate potentials, and quantal release was studied in murine phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparations in vitro. Emphasis was placed on comparison of presynaptic with postsynaptic effects of pancuronium under similar experimental conditions. At low concentrations of pancuronium (5 X 10(-8) g/ml or less), no presynaptic effect was found. At high concentration (5 X 10(-7) g/ml), pancuronium depressed quantal release to 26 per cent of control in cut-fiber preparations and 40 per cent of control in high-magnesium preparations. Postsynaptic effects as measured by the amplitude of miniature endplate potentials and relative depolarization induced by 20 microns carbachol, revealed depression to 16 and 22 per cent of control, respectively, at a pancuronium concentration of 5 X 10(-7) g/ml. Pancuronium had no effect on directly elicited action potentials and electrical membrane constants. The authors conclude that presynaptic as well as postsynaptic effects of pancuronium in paralytic doses are essential in contributing to the total efficacy of neuromuscular depression.", "PMID": 434503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2186", "title": "Atrioventricular conduction in dogs during anesthesia with isoflurane.", "content": "The effects of 1.25, 2.0, and 2.5 MAC isoflurane on atrioventricular conduction were studied by His-bindle electrocardiography during atrial pacing in ten dogs. No effect upon atrioventricular conduction as evidenced by changes in A--H interval (the time of conduction from low right atrium to His-bundle, representing primary AV nodal conduction) was found at these concentrations. Atrial pacing to 200 beats/min did not influence the A--H interval at the three anesthetic concentrations. The stability of cardiac rhythm observed clinically with isoflurane may be related to this lack of effect upon the AV node.", "contents": "Atrioventricular conduction in dogs during anesthesia with isoflurane. The effects of 1.25, 2.0, and 2.5 MAC isoflurane on atrioventricular conduction were studied by His-bindle electrocardiography during atrial pacing in ten dogs. No effect upon atrioventricular conduction as evidenced by changes in A--H interval (the time of conduction from low right atrium to His-bundle, representing primary AV nodal conduction) was found at these concentrations. Atrial pacing to 200 beats/min did not influence the A--H interval at the three anesthetic concentrations. The stability of cardiac rhythm observed clinically with isoflurane may be related to this lack of effect upon the AV node.", "PMID": 434504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2187", "title": "A method for sampling halothane and enflurane present in trace amounts in ambient air.", "content": "A method for the sampling of small amounts of halothane and enflurane in ambient air is described. Sampling is performed by drawing air through a sampling tube packed with Porapak Q, which absorbs the anesthetic agent. The amount absorbed is determined by gas chromatography after thermal desorption. This method can be used for \"spot\" or personal sampling or for determining mean whole-room concentrations over relatively long periods (several hours).", "contents": "A method for sampling halothane and enflurane present in trace amounts in ambient air. A method for the sampling of small amounts of halothane and enflurane in ambient air is described. Sampling is performed by drawing air through a sampling tube packed with Porapak Q, which absorbs the anesthetic agent. The amount absorbed is determined by gas chromatography after thermal desorption. This method can be used for \"spot\" or personal sampling or for determining mean whole-room concentrations over relatively long periods (several hours).", "PMID": 434508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2188", "title": "Chronic exposure to low concentrations of halothane-nitrous oxide: lack of carcinogenic effect in the rat.", "content": "The effects of prolonged exposure to low-concentration combinations of halothane and nitrous oxide on tumor incidence, especially with regard to the reticuloendothelial system, were studied. Three groups of 50 male and 50 female Fischer 344 rats each were studied. For seven hours/day, five days/week, for 104 weeks, Group I was exposed to filtered air (control); Group II, to halothane, 1 ppm, and nitrous oxide (N2O), 50 ppm; Group III, to halothane, 10 ppm, and N2O, 500 ppm. No evidence of exposure-related effects on body weight, appearance, behavior, survival, or hematologic findings was found. Histologic evaluation of the reticuloendothelial system and of other major organs revealed neither enhancement of the spontaneous tumor rate nor any unusual neoplasm. Thus, this study did not lend support to the hypothesis that these anesthetic agents in low concentrations are responsible for the reportedly higher than average incidence of reticuloendothelial malignancies in operating room personnel.", "contents": "Chronic exposure to low concentrations of halothane-nitrous oxide: lack of carcinogenic effect in the rat. The effects of prolonged exposure to low-concentration combinations of halothane and nitrous oxide on tumor incidence, especially with regard to the reticuloendothelial system, were studied. Three groups of 50 male and 50 female Fischer 344 rats each were studied. For seven hours/day, five days/week, for 104 weeks, Group I was exposed to filtered air (control); Group II, to halothane, 1 ppm, and nitrous oxide (N2O), 50 ppm; Group III, to halothane, 10 ppm, and N2O, 500 ppm. No evidence of exposure-related effects on body weight, appearance, behavior, survival, or hematologic findings was found. Histologic evaluation of the reticuloendothelial system and of other major organs revealed neither enhancement of the spontaneous tumor rate nor any unusual neoplasm. Thus, this study did not lend support to the hypothesis that these anesthetic agents in low concentrations are responsible for the reportedly higher than average incidence of reticuloendothelial malignancies in operating room personnel.", "PMID": 434532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2189", "title": "Indices of myocardial oxygenation during coronary-artery revascularization in man with morphine versus halothane anesthesia.", "content": "A prospective study in 12 adult male patients undergoing coronary-artery revascularization was conducted to compare the effects of a morphine versus a halothane anesthetic technique on several indices of myocardial oxygen supply and demand. Indices reflecting myocardial contractility, preload, afterload, and heart rate were measured. Undesirable increases in systemic and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were minimized using sodium nitroprusside as needed. In the period after sternotomy but before revascularization, patients anesthetized with morphine (mean 2.1 mg/kg) had significant (P less than .05) increases in rate-pressure product, tension-time index, blood pressure, and heart rate, as well as relative myocardial ischemia, evidenced by significant ST-segment depression in the V5 lead of the EKG and a decreased diastolic pressure-time index/tension-time index compared with patients anesthetized with halothane (mean .75 per cent inspired). Few difficulties associated with myocardial depression were seen in patients anesthetized with halothane. Halothane, at least in a well-monitored environment, is safe for use in patients without severe ventricular dysfunction undergoing coronary-artery revascularization.", "contents": "Indices of myocardial oxygenation during coronary-artery revascularization in man with morphine versus halothane anesthesia. A prospective study in 12 adult male patients undergoing coronary-artery revascularization was conducted to compare the effects of a morphine versus a halothane anesthetic technique on several indices of myocardial oxygen supply and demand. Indices reflecting myocardial contractility, preload, afterload, and heart rate were measured. Undesirable increases in systemic and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were minimized using sodium nitroprusside as needed. In the period after sternotomy but before revascularization, patients anesthetized with morphine (mean 2.1 mg/kg) had significant (P less than .05) increases in rate-pressure product, tension-time index, blood pressure, and heart rate, as well as relative myocardial ischemia, evidenced by significant ST-segment depression in the V5 lead of the EKG and a decreased diastolic pressure-time index/tension-time index compared with patients anesthetized with halothane (mean .75 per cent inspired). Few difficulties associated with myocardial depression were seen in patients anesthetized with halothane. Halothane, at least in a well-monitored environment, is safe for use in patients without severe ventricular dysfunction undergoing coronary-artery revascularization.", "PMID": 434535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2190", "title": "Sites and mechanisms of action of halothane on skeletal muscle function in vitro.", "content": "In isolated rat diaphragm strips, halothane augments the tension produced during caffeine-induced contractures in a dose-related manner. Potassium-induced contracture tension is augmented in the presence of halothane to a concentration of 0.75 per cent, and decreased at halothane concentrations of more than 1 per cent. The time of peak tension for potassium-induced contractures is diminished by all halothane concentrations. T-tubular disruption by hypertonic glycerol does not alter anesthetic-induced augmentation of caffeine-induced contractures. It is postulated that halothane augments calcium-release processes in sarcoplasmic reticulum. Membrane events or excitation-contraction coupling steps may be also altered by halothane.", "contents": "Sites and mechanisms of action of halothane on skeletal muscle function in vitro. In isolated rat diaphragm strips, halothane augments the tension produced during caffeine-induced contractures in a dose-related manner. Potassium-induced contracture tension is augmented in the presence of halothane to a concentration of 0.75 per cent, and decreased at halothane concentrations of more than 1 per cent. The time of peak tension for potassium-induced contractures is diminished by all halothane concentrations. T-tubular disruption by hypertonic glycerol does not alter anesthetic-induced augmentation of caffeine-induced contractures. It is postulated that halothane augments calcium-release processes in sarcoplasmic reticulum. Membrane events or excitation-contraction coupling steps may be also altered by halothane.", "PMID": 434536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2191", "title": "PEEP and CPAP following open-heart surgery in infants and children.", "content": "The cardiorespiratory effects of 5 cm H2O end-expiratory pressure were studied in 22 infants and children an hour after open-heart surgery during mechanical ventilation with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and prior to endotracheal extubation approximately 15 hours later during spontaneous breathing (CPAP). Thermodilution cardiac output determinations and respiratory airflow, volume and pressure recordings were made to assess the effects of airway pressure changes on the respiratory waveform and oxygen delivery. Neither PEEP nor CPAP had a significant effect on cardiac output, intrapulmonary shunting, oxygen consumption, or oxygen utilization. Patients who had had pulmonary hypertension preoperatively did not behave differently from those without pulmonary hypertension when removed from ventilatory supprot. Expiratory airflow was significantly prolonged when positive end-expiratory pressure existed during both controlled and spontaneous respiration. During CPAP, this \"expiratory braking\" was associated with an increase in tidal volume and decreases in respiratory rate and minute volume. Because of the lack of improvement in cardiopulmonary function in this group of patients, and the possibility of untoward effects from sustained end-expiratory pressure, PEEP and CPAP might properly be reserved as temporary supportive techniques should respiratory function be compromised.", "contents": "PEEP and CPAP following open-heart surgery in infants and children. The cardiorespiratory effects of 5 cm H2O end-expiratory pressure were studied in 22 infants and children an hour after open-heart surgery during mechanical ventilation with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and prior to endotracheal extubation approximately 15 hours later during spontaneous breathing (CPAP). Thermodilution cardiac output determinations and respiratory airflow, volume and pressure recordings were made to assess the effects of airway pressure changes on the respiratory waveform and oxygen delivery. Neither PEEP nor CPAP had a significant effect on cardiac output, intrapulmonary shunting, oxygen consumption, or oxygen utilization. Patients who had had pulmonary hypertension preoperatively did not behave differently from those without pulmonary hypertension when removed from ventilatory supprot. Expiratory airflow was significantly prolonged when positive end-expiratory pressure existed during both controlled and spontaneous respiration. During CPAP, this \"expiratory braking\" was associated with an increase in tidal volume and decreases in respiratory rate and minute volume. Because of the lack of improvement in cardiopulmonary function in this group of patients, and the possibility of untoward effects from sustained end-expiratory pressure, PEEP and CPAP might properly be reserved as temporary supportive techniques should respiratory function be compromised.", "PMID": 434537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2192", "title": "Porphyrin-inducing activity of alfaxolone and alfadolone acetate in chick embryo liver cells.", "content": "The two steroid components of Alfathesin, alfaxolone and alfadolone acetate, have been tested for porphyrin-inducing activity in chick embryo liver cell culture and for hepatic ALA-synthetase-inducing activity in the 17-day-old chick embryo. In cell culture alfoxolone was shown to have potency comparable to that of thiopental, while alfadolone acetate had low potency. In the 17-day-old chick embryo alfaxolone has a third the potency of thiopental; alfadolone acetate showed low potency. The authors conclude that an induction dose of Alfathesin would be less likely than a comparable dose of thiopental to increase ALA-synthetase activity in a patient with hereditary hepatic porphyria.", "contents": "Porphyrin-inducing activity of alfaxolone and alfadolone acetate in chick embryo liver cells. The two steroid components of Alfathesin, alfaxolone and alfadolone acetate, have been tested for porphyrin-inducing activity in chick embryo liver cell culture and for hepatic ALA-synthetase-inducing activity in the 17-day-old chick embryo. In cell culture alfoxolone was shown to have potency comparable to that of thiopental, while alfadolone acetate had low potency. In the 17-day-old chick embryo alfaxolone has a third the potency of thiopental; alfadolone acetate showed low potency. The authors conclude that an induction dose of Alfathesin would be less likely than a comparable dose of thiopental to increase ALA-synthetase activity in a patient with hereditary hepatic porphyria.", "PMID": 434539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2193", "title": "Restoration of muscle-pump function in chronic venous insufficiency.", "content": "The direct venous pressure profile was recorded before and after treatment in 15 patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. Patients were treated conservatively, first by tight elastic support and walking exercises, then by eliminating the points of blood shunting by sclerotherapy of the incompetent perforators. The average venous pressure drop during tiptoeing was increased from 31.6% to 50.9% (P less tan 0.01), and the time required for return to the resting venous pressure level increased from an average 6 seconds to 12.9 seconds (P = 0.01). These values indicate a significant improvement in the functioning of the muscle pump of the calf, and are paralleled by clinical and subjective improvement. Wr recommend this method of treatment in cases of chronic venous insufficiency. We also wish to point out the importance of repeated direct venous pressure profile recording as a means of assessing the effectiveness of treatment in cases of venous disorders.", "contents": "Restoration of muscle-pump function in chronic venous insufficiency. The direct venous pressure profile was recorded before and after treatment in 15 patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. Patients were treated conservatively, first by tight elastic support and walking exercises, then by eliminating the points of blood shunting by sclerotherapy of the incompetent perforators. The average venous pressure drop during tiptoeing was increased from 31.6% to 50.9% (P less tan 0.01), and the time required for return to the resting venous pressure level increased from an average 6 seconds to 12.9 seconds (P = 0.01). These values indicate a significant improvement in the functioning of the muscle pump of the calf, and are paralleled by clinical and subjective improvement. Wr recommend this method of treatment in cases of chronic venous insufficiency. We also wish to point out the importance of repeated direct venous pressure profile recording as a means of assessing the effectiveness of treatment in cases of venous disorders.", "PMID": 434565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2194", "title": "Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (SQ 20881) in the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension.", "content": "SQ 20881, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, was given to 12 patients with renovascular hypertension and to 1 patient with unilateral parenchymatous renal disease in order to evaluate the role of renin-angiotensin systems in their hypertension. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone were assayed in systemic blood before and after the injection of SQ 20881. In 5 patients PRA was also measured separately in each renal vein. Blood pressure decreased, PRA increased, and aldosterone level decreased in the 12 renin-dependent patients. When PRA was sampled separately from each renal vein, the increase was larger on the side of the affected kidney. Four patients with a positive test underwent corrective surgery, and in all blood pressure became normal. SQ 20881 is a useful agent in evaluating the contribution of renin in patients with hypertension.", "contents": "Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (SQ 20881) in the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension. SQ 20881, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, was given to 12 patients with renovascular hypertension and to 1 patient with unilateral parenchymatous renal disease in order to evaluate the role of renin-angiotensin systems in their hypertension. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone were assayed in systemic blood before and after the injection of SQ 20881. In 5 patients PRA was also measured separately in each renal vein. Blood pressure decreased, PRA increased, and aldosterone level decreased in the 12 renin-dependent patients. When PRA was sampled separately from each renal vein, the increase was larger on the side of the affected kidney. Four patients with a positive test underwent corrective surgery, and in all blood pressure became normal. SQ 20881 is a useful agent in evaluating the contribution of renin in patients with hypertension.", "PMID": 434566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2195", "title": "Cerebral aneurysm induced by giant cell arteritis: a case report.", "content": "A rare case of giant cell arteritis inducing an aneurysmal dilatation in the peripheral branch of the middle cerebral artery was presented. The lesion was solitary and no extra-cerebral vasculature was involved. The literature of giant cell arteritis and of similar disorders involving the intracranial arteries was reviewed.", "contents": "Cerebral aneurysm induced by giant cell arteritis: a case report. A rare case of giant cell arteritis inducing an aneurysmal dilatation in the peripheral branch of the middle cerebral artery was presented. The lesion was solitary and no extra-cerebral vasculature was involved. The literature of giant cell arteritis and of similar disorders involving the intracranial arteries was reviewed.", "PMID": 434568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2196", "title": "Hyperkalemia-induced conversion of chronic atrial fibrillation to normal sinus rhythm; a case report.", "content": "The electrocardiographic manifestations of hyperkalemia have been well described. We report a patient with chronic congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation for 6 years. who converted to sinus rhythm during an episode of hyperkalemia. To our knowledge, this is the first report of hyperkalemia-induced conversion of chronic atrial fibrillation to sinus mechanism.", "contents": "Hyperkalemia-induced conversion of chronic atrial fibrillation to normal sinus rhythm; a case report. The electrocardiographic manifestations of hyperkalemia have been well described. We report a patient with chronic congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation for 6 years. who converted to sinus rhythm during an episode of hyperkalemia. To our knowledge, this is the first report of hyperkalemia-induced conversion of chronic atrial fibrillation to sinus mechanism.", "PMID": 434570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2197", "title": "Anastomotic rupture of aortic grafts.", "content": "Proximal suture line disruption is one of the severe complications of synthetic vascular grafting for arteriosclerotic aortic disorders. The pathology of clinical and experimental cases revealed that a small bite of each stitch cut into the host aorta and became disrupted. Making each stitch as large as possible in the host aorta is the first procedural choice for aortic replacement surgery. Protecting the anastomotic line with a synthetic mesh cloth wrapping is preferable.", "contents": "Anastomotic rupture of aortic grafts. Proximal suture line disruption is one of the severe complications of synthetic vascular grafting for arteriosclerotic aortic disorders. The pathology of clinical and experimental cases revealed that a small bite of each stitch cut into the host aorta and became disrupted. Making each stitch as large as possible in the host aorta is the first procedural choice for aortic replacement surgery. Protecting the anastomotic line with a synthetic mesh cloth wrapping is preferable.", "PMID": 434571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2198", "title": "Compression therapy of vein and lymph vessel diseases of the lower extremities: a present day overview.", "content": "Compression therapy of vein and lymph vessel diseases of the lower extremities has been used for over 2 1/2 millenia. A short historic survey is given. The theoretic basis is to prevent edema by helping the pump action of the calf muscles reverse the pathologic caudad blood flow upward toward the vena cava inferior, and to attempt to fix a fresh thrombus in the calf veins and thus prevent pulmonary embolism. The available material, including bandages, elastic stockings, the technique, indications, complications, and especially allergic skin reactions are discussed.", "contents": "Compression therapy of vein and lymph vessel diseases of the lower extremities: a present day overview. Compression therapy of vein and lymph vessel diseases of the lower extremities has been used for over 2 1/2 millenia. A short historic survey is given. The theoretic basis is to prevent edema by helping the pump action of the calf muscles reverse the pathologic caudad blood flow upward toward the vena cava inferior, and to attempt to fix a fresh thrombus in the calf veins and thus prevent pulmonary embolism. The available material, including bandages, elastic stockings, the technique, indications, complications, and especially allergic skin reactions are discussed.", "PMID": 434572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2199", "title": "Thrombophlebitis associated with vitamin E therapy. With a commentary on other medical side effects.", "content": "I have encountered 50 patients with clinical thrombophlebitis involving the lower extremites, with or without associated edema and pulmonary embolism, in whom longstanding self-medication with large amounts of vitamin E appeared to be a significant factor. The majority improved following cessation of vitamin E. In view of the epidemic nature of thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis in the United States, the presumed innocuousness of vitamin E therapy requires reevaluation. Other clinical side effects also have been noted in patients receiving large doses of vitamin E. They include breast tenderness, elevation of blood pressure, a fatigue syndrome, myopathy, intestinal cramps, urticaria, and the possible aggravation of diabetes mellitus. The influence of concomitant metabolic, endocrine, and cardiovascular disorders on the thrombogenic potential of vitamin E is raised, and several possible mechanisms conducive to thrombophlebitis are reviewed.", "contents": "Thrombophlebitis associated with vitamin E therapy. With a commentary on other medical side effects. I have encountered 50 patients with clinical thrombophlebitis involving the lower extremites, with or without associated edema and pulmonary embolism, in whom longstanding self-medication with large amounts of vitamin E appeared to be a significant factor. The majority improved following cessation of vitamin E. In view of the epidemic nature of thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis in the United States, the presumed innocuousness of vitamin E therapy requires reevaluation. Other clinical side effects also have been noted in patients receiving large doses of vitamin E. They include breast tenderness, elevation of blood pressure, a fatigue syndrome, myopathy, intestinal cramps, urticaria, and the possible aggravation of diabetes mellitus. The influence of concomitant metabolic, endocrine, and cardiovascular disorders on the thrombogenic potential of vitamin E is raised, and several possible mechanisms conducive to thrombophlebitis are reviewed.", "PMID": 434574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2200", "title": "Surgical management of venous stasis disease: an update.", "content": "The management of leg ulcers of venous origin begins with patient cooperation. Bed rest, leg elevation, and local care should relieve pain and initiate healing. This can be facilitated or managed on an outpatient basis by using an Unna's boot. Superficial varicosities should be ligated and stripped, and perforators identified by venography should be ligated and divided subfascially. Ulcers can then be excised and grafted. Long-term care includes chronic use of compression hose.", "contents": "Surgical management of venous stasis disease: an update. The management of leg ulcers of venous origin begins with patient cooperation. Bed rest, leg elevation, and local care should relieve pain and initiate healing. This can be facilitated or managed on an outpatient basis by using an Unna's boot. Superficial varicosities should be ligated and stripped, and perforators identified by venography should be ligated and divided subfascially. Ulcers can then be excised and grafted. Long-term care includes chronic use of compression hose.", "PMID": 434575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2201", "title": "Wedged hepatic venous pressure in congential heart disease.", "content": "Seventy cases of congential heart disease including the most frequent types were studied, and wedge hepatic venous pressure (WHVP) was measured in each. The mean pressure was determined in the \"jammed position\" and in the free hepatic veins, inferior vena cava, and low right atrium. The average mean WHVP was 7.0 mm Hg, 5.0 in inferior vena cava, and 3.4 in the right atrium. A direct relationship was found between wedge hepatic venous pressure of the inferior vena cava and the low right atrium, but not other parameters. Ten patients had a mean pressure above 10 mm Hg. We believe that in many circumstances in patients with congenital heart disease, liver function may be abnormal and high values of wedge hepatic venous pressure may also be found.", "contents": "Wedged hepatic venous pressure in congential heart disease. Seventy cases of congential heart disease including the most frequent types were studied, and wedge hepatic venous pressure (WHVP) was measured in each. The mean pressure was determined in the \"jammed position\" and in the free hepatic veins, inferior vena cava, and low right atrium. The average mean WHVP was 7.0 mm Hg, 5.0 in inferior vena cava, and 3.4 in the right atrium. A direct relationship was found between wedge hepatic venous pressure of the inferior vena cava and the low right atrium, but not other parameters. Ten patients had a mean pressure above 10 mm Hg. We believe that in many circumstances in patients with congenital heart disease, liver function may be abnormal and high values of wedge hepatic venous pressure may also be found.", "PMID": 434576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2202", "title": "Progression of a dural arteriovenous malformation resulting in an intracerebral hematoma. A case report.", "content": "A progressing, essentially extracranial arteriovenous malformation with purely external carotid feeders can involve the intracranial vasculature by enlargement of its drainage area. Thus it can cause cerebral dysfunction by an intracranial bleed or raised intracranial pressure due to venous engorgement. A case is described to support this possibility.", "contents": "Progression of a dural arteriovenous malformation resulting in an intracerebral hematoma. A case report. A progressing, essentially extracranial arteriovenous malformation with purely external carotid feeders can involve the intracranial vasculature by enlargement of its drainage area. Thus it can cause cerebral dysfunction by an intracranial bleed or raised intracranial pressure due to venous engorgement. A case is described to support this possibility.", "PMID": 434578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2203", "title": "Right coronary arteriocameral fistula into the right ventricle. An inspiratory accentuation of continuous murmur: a case report.", "content": "A case of a right coronary artery fistula into the right ventricle is presented. The clinical diagnosis was based on the presence of a continuous murmur best heard in the epigastrium, which increased in intensity and duration on inspiration . This report stresses the importance of this sign in the localization of the arterial fistula to the right ventricle. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports of this sign.", "contents": "Right coronary arteriocameral fistula into the right ventricle. An inspiratory accentuation of continuous murmur: a case report. A case of a right coronary artery fistula into the right ventricle is presented. The clinical diagnosis was based on the presence of a continuous murmur best heard in the epigastrium, which increased in intensity and duration on inspiration . This report stresses the importance of this sign in the localization of the arterial fistula to the right ventricle. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports of this sign.", "PMID": 434580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2204", "title": "Prinzmetal's variant angina associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage: A case report.", "content": "Prinzmetal's variant of angina occurred in a 48-year-old man who sustained two attacks of subarachnoid hemorrhage within 10 days. The first anginal pain started at the same time that the second cerebrovascular accident developed, but subsequent anginal episodes were not accompanied by other symptoms or signs that indicated new development of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Twelve days later, when nuchal rigidity was fairly improved, the episodes of chest pain ended. A vasospasm of the large coronary arteries--probably due to the derangement of the autonomic nervous system caused by subarachnoid hemorrhage--was presumed to contribute to the occurrence of the variant angina. Based on this case and on review of the literature, we propose that coronary arterial spasm is one of several causes of the cardiac changes seen in subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "contents": "Prinzmetal's variant angina associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage: A case report. Prinzmetal's variant of angina occurred in a 48-year-old man who sustained two attacks of subarachnoid hemorrhage within 10 days. The first anginal pain started at the same time that the second cerebrovascular accident developed, but subsequent anginal episodes were not accompanied by other symptoms or signs that indicated new development of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Twelve days later, when nuchal rigidity was fairly improved, the episodes of chest pain ended. A vasospasm of the large coronary arteries--probably due to the derangement of the autonomic nervous system caused by subarachnoid hemorrhage--was presumed to contribute to the occurrence of the variant angina. Based on this case and on review of the literature, we propose that coronary arterial spasm is one of several causes of the cardiac changes seen in subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "PMID": 434581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2205", "title": "A comparison of the bronchodilator effects of terbutaline, Tedral and the simultaneous use of both agents.", "content": "A modified double-blind study in 14 asthmatic patients had demonstrated that oral terbutaline (5 mg) resulted in significantly greater bronchodilation than did Tedral. Simultaneous ingestion of terbutaline and Tedral resulted in significantly greater bronchodilation than after either agent alone, which supports the concomitant use of beta-2 agonists and theophylline agents when treating patients with airflow obstruction.", "contents": "A comparison of the bronchodilator effects of terbutaline, Tedral and the simultaneous use of both agents. A modified double-blind study in 14 asthmatic patients had demonstrated that oral terbutaline (5 mg) resulted in significantly greater bronchodilation than did Tedral. Simultaneous ingestion of terbutaline and Tedral resulted in significantly greater bronchodilation than after either agent alone, which supports the concomitant use of beta-2 agonists and theophylline agents when treating patients with airflow obstruction.", "PMID": 434583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2206", "title": "The use and interpretation of RAST to stinging insect venoms.", "content": "Quality controlled, standardized RAST systems for five stinging insect venoms are described. These systems were evaluated using 375 sera from insect reactive patients from six diverse geographic regions. Ninety-four percent of patients with recent histories of systemic allergic reactions to stings were positive to at least one venom while 4 percent of normal local reactors were positive. The cross reactions between honey bee and vespid venoms were studied by RAST inhibition. A quantitative method for interpretation of venom RAST is presented to account for cross-reactivities and the approach to diagnosis is discussed.", "contents": "The use and interpretation of RAST to stinging insect venoms. Quality controlled, standardized RAST systems for five stinging insect venoms are described. These systems were evaluated using 375 sera from insect reactive patients from six diverse geographic regions. Ninety-four percent of patients with recent histories of systemic allergic reactions to stings were positive to at least one venom while 4 percent of normal local reactors were positive. The cross reactions between honey bee and vespid venoms were studied by RAST inhibition. A quantitative method for interpretation of venom RAST is presented to account for cross-reactivities and the approach to diagnosis is discussed.", "PMID": 434584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2207", "title": "Respiratory allergy to algae: clinical aspects.", "content": "A comprehensive investigation was done to evaluate the allergenic algae in the Delhi area. Results of 4,000 skin tests performed on 400 patients suffering from naso-bronchial allergy and 300 skin tests on 30 healthy persons with 10 common algae isolated from the Dehli atmosphere are presented and compared. Positive skin reactions (1+ to 3+) to algae extracts ranged from 25.7% with Lyngbya major extract to 1.7% with Oscillatoria simplicissima extract; in healthy non-allergic volunteers there were no positive skin reactions. The Prausnitz-K\u00fcstner (PK), bronchial provocation and conjunctival tests were negative in patients with negative skin reactions; in patients with positive skin reactions PK was positive in 70.9%, bronchial provocation in 50% and conjunctival in 48.5%. Levels of total IgE in patients with naso-bronchial allergy were higher, ranging from 1,225 international units per ml to 1,550 international units per ml, while in healthy volunteers the values were less than 885 international units per ml.", "contents": "Respiratory allergy to algae: clinical aspects. A comprehensive investigation was done to evaluate the allergenic algae in the Delhi area. Results of 4,000 skin tests performed on 400 patients suffering from naso-bronchial allergy and 300 skin tests on 30 healthy persons with 10 common algae isolated from the Dehli atmosphere are presented and compared. Positive skin reactions (1+ to 3+) to algae extracts ranged from 25.7% with Lyngbya major extract to 1.7% with Oscillatoria simplicissima extract; in healthy non-allergic volunteers there were no positive skin reactions. The Prausnitz-K\u00fcstner (PK), bronchial provocation and conjunctival tests were negative in patients with negative skin reactions; in patients with positive skin reactions PK was positive in 70.9%, bronchial provocation in 50% and conjunctival in 48.5%. Levels of total IgE in patients with naso-bronchial allergy were higher, ranging from 1,225 international units per ml to 1,550 international units per ml, while in healthy volunteers the values were less than 885 international units per ml.", "PMID": 434586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2208", "title": "The effect of \"warm-up\" on exercise-induced asthma.", "content": "To determine the effect of \"warm-up\" on exercise-induced asthma (EIA) 18 subjects ( mean age 19.7 years) performed five minutes of submaximal treadmill running to achieve a heart rate (HR) of 85% of predicted maximum for age. One such exercise test was preceded by \"warm-up\" and one was not. \"Warm-up\" consisted of three minutes of treadmill walking or jogging to attain 60% of predicted maximun HR for age. An identical incidence (77.8%) and severity (38.1% mean decrease in FEV1) of EIA was recorded after treadmill running whether preceded by \"warm-up\" or not. While this study does not support the concept that \"warm-up\" could reduce the likelihood of EIA, it is recommended that a longer, more intense \"warm-up\" involving interval exercise should be evaluated before rejecting the view that \"warm-up\" ameliorates EIA.", "contents": "The effect of \"warm-up\" on exercise-induced asthma. To determine the effect of \"warm-up\" on exercise-induced asthma (EIA) 18 subjects ( mean age 19.7 years) performed five minutes of submaximal treadmill running to achieve a heart rate (HR) of 85% of predicted maximum for age. One such exercise test was preceded by \"warm-up\" and one was not. \"Warm-up\" consisted of three minutes of treadmill walking or jogging to attain 60% of predicted maximun HR for age. An identical incidence (77.8%) and severity (38.1% mean decrease in FEV1) of EIA was recorded after treadmill running whether preceded by \"warm-up\" or not. While this study does not support the concept that \"warm-up\" could reduce the likelihood of EIA, it is recommended that a longer, more intense \"warm-up\" involving interval exercise should be evaluated before rejecting the view that \"warm-up\" ameliorates EIA.", "PMID": 434587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2209", "title": "Farmer's lung disease: long-term clinical and physiologic outcome.", "content": "To determine the long-term effects of farmer's lung disease and the factors influening the outcome, 141 patients with farmer's lung disease were evaluated. At the time of the last follow-up, 29 patients had died and 92 (mean age, 54 years) were studied clinically, physiologically, and radiologically. The mean length of disease was 14.8 years (range, 2.25 to 40 years). Symptoms at the time of the last follow-up included complaints of cough (33 per cent of the patients), breathlessness while walking on the level (20 per cent), breathlessness on minor exertion (14 per cent), and breathlessness while at rest (3 per cent). Twenty-eight per cent had chronic bronchitis. Thirty-nine per cent (36 of 92 patients) had some evidence of interstitial changes on roentgenogram. Abnormal vital capacity was present in 11 patients (12 per cent), abnormal total lung capacity in 11 (12 per cent), and abnormal CO difussing capacity in 27 (30 per cent). The ratio of one-sec forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity was abnormal in 23 patients (25 per cent), and arterial PO2 was abnormal in 39 (40 per cent). Patients with a history of 5 or more symptomatic recurrences had significantly smaller values (P less than 0.05) for vital capacity, total lung capacity, and CO diffusing capacity than did those patients with less than 5 recurrences. There was no significant relation between continued farming or length of disease and lung function. On the basis of several measurements of airway function, 34 of the patients (58 per cent) were found to have some abnormality, It is concluded that symptomatic recurrences may be the most important factor in determining the danger of progressive disease. Persistently positive precipitins were correlated with decreased CO diffusing capacity. Moreover, airway disease is relatively uncommon but does occur, and in some cases it is a possible consequence of farmer's lung disease.", "contents": "Farmer's lung disease: long-term clinical and physiologic outcome. To determine the long-term effects of farmer's lung disease and the factors influening the outcome, 141 patients with farmer's lung disease were evaluated. At the time of the last follow-up, 29 patients had died and 92 (mean age, 54 years) were studied clinically, physiologically, and radiologically. The mean length of disease was 14.8 years (range, 2.25 to 40 years). Symptoms at the time of the last follow-up included complaints of cough (33 per cent of the patients), breathlessness while walking on the level (20 per cent), breathlessness on minor exertion (14 per cent), and breathlessness while at rest (3 per cent). Twenty-eight per cent had chronic bronchitis. Thirty-nine per cent (36 of 92 patients) had some evidence of interstitial changes on roentgenogram. Abnormal vital capacity was present in 11 patients (12 per cent), abnormal total lung capacity in 11 (12 per cent), and abnormal CO difussing capacity in 27 (30 per cent). The ratio of one-sec forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity was abnormal in 23 patients (25 per cent), and arterial PO2 was abnormal in 39 (40 per cent). Patients with a history of 5 or more symptomatic recurrences had significantly smaller values (P less than 0.05) for vital capacity, total lung capacity, and CO diffusing capacity than did those patients with less than 5 recurrences. There was no significant relation between continued farming or length of disease and lung function. On the basis of several measurements of airway function, 34 of the patients (58 per cent) were found to have some abnormality, It is concluded that symptomatic recurrences may be the most important factor in determining the danger of progressive disease. Persistently positive precipitins were correlated with decreased CO diffusing capacity. Moreover, airway disease is relatively uncommon but does occur, and in some cases it is a possible consequence of farmer's lung disease.", "PMID": 434591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2210", "title": "Comparison of respiratory variables in grain elevator workers and civic outside workers of Thunder Bay, Canada.", "content": "We compared respiratory variables in 441 grain elevator workers with 180 civic outside laborers in Thunder Bay. The grain handlers had a lower frequency of both positive skin reactions to pollens and molds and a family history of asthma, which suggests that they may have been self-selected for a decreased tendency to develop allergic respiratory disease. There was a higher frequency of cough and rales and a small decrease in forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one sec among the grain handlers, as compared to the civic workers matched for smoking. However, these differences between grain and nongrain workers were small in comparison to those between smokers and nonsmokers. There was no clear indication of a worsening of respiratory functions that could be attributed specifically to duration of employment as a grain elevator worker.", "contents": "Comparison of respiratory variables in grain elevator workers and civic outside workers of Thunder Bay, Canada. We compared respiratory variables in 441 grain elevator workers with 180 civic outside laborers in Thunder Bay. The grain handlers had a lower frequency of both positive skin reactions to pollens and molds and a family history of asthma, which suggests that they may have been self-selected for a decreased tendency to develop allergic respiratory disease. There was a higher frequency of cough and rales and a small decrease in forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one sec among the grain handlers, as compared to the civic workers matched for smoking. However, these differences between grain and nongrain workers were small in comparison to those between smokers and nonsmokers. There was no clear indication of a worsening of respiratory functions that could be attributed specifically to duration of employment as a grain elevator worker.", "PMID": 434592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2211", "title": "Decrease in lung recoil pressure after cessation of smoking.", "content": "Tests of lung mechanics and single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) were done in 26 apparently healthy cigarette smokers before and 2 months after cessation of smoking. There was a significant increase in vital capacity and 1-sec forced expiratory volume as well as improvement in frequency dependence of lung dynamic compliance. Slope and phase III and density dependence of maximal expiratory flow showed a borderline improvement DLCO did not change. Static lung pressure-volume curves showed a small but significant (P less than 0.01) shift toward lower pressures. We concluded that the previously reported decrease in lung recoil pressure observed in smokers is even more accentuated after cessation of smoking.", "contents": "Decrease in lung recoil pressure after cessation of smoking. Tests of lung mechanics and single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) were done in 26 apparently healthy cigarette smokers before and 2 months after cessation of smoking. There was a significant increase in vital capacity and 1-sec forced expiratory volume as well as improvement in frequency dependence of lung dynamic compliance. Slope and phase III and density dependence of maximal expiratory flow showed a borderline improvement DLCO did not change. Static lung pressure-volume curves showed a small but significant (P less than 0.01) shift toward lower pressures. We concluded that the previously reported decrease in lung recoil pressure observed in smokers is even more accentuated after cessation of smoking.", "PMID": 434593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2212", "title": "Arterial blood gas tension changes at the start of exercise in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.", "content": "In a previously reported study of a group of normal subjects, large decreases in arterial O2 tension (PaO2) of as much as 37 mm Hg were measured during the first 90 sec of slow stair-climbing exercise (chosen as a common daily exertion). This study reports the changes in PaO2, arterial CO2 tension (PaCO2), and ventilation in 7 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and resting hypoxemia during the first 90 sec of similar exercise. The patient group showed significantly smaller unsteady-state decreases in PaO2 starting from a smaller resting value (patient group, 72 +/- 2.6 mm Hg, mean +/- SE; normal group, 92 +/- mm Hg; P less than 0.001) and decreasing to a similar smallest value (patient group, 58 +/- 3.8 mm Hg; normal group, 65 +/- 3.4 Hg; P greater than 0.05). PaCO2 tended to oscillate around the resting value in both the patient group and the normal group, and the rates of increase in ventilation in the 2 groups were similar. The physiologic processes that could limit the unsteady-state decrease in PaCO2 in the patient group are analyzed, the analysis suggesting that a slower rate of increase in tissue consumption of O2 is most likely to account for the smaller decrease in PaO2.", "contents": "Arterial blood gas tension changes at the start of exercise in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In a previously reported study of a group of normal subjects, large decreases in arterial O2 tension (PaO2) of as much as 37 mm Hg were measured during the first 90 sec of slow stair-climbing exercise (chosen as a common daily exertion). This study reports the changes in PaO2, arterial CO2 tension (PaCO2), and ventilation in 7 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and resting hypoxemia during the first 90 sec of similar exercise. The patient group showed significantly smaller unsteady-state decreases in PaO2 starting from a smaller resting value (patient group, 72 +/- 2.6 mm Hg, mean +/- SE; normal group, 92 +/- mm Hg; P less than 0.001) and decreasing to a similar smallest value (patient group, 58 +/- 3.8 mm Hg; normal group, 65 +/- 3.4 Hg; P greater than 0.05). PaCO2 tended to oscillate around the resting value in both the patient group and the normal group, and the rates of increase in ventilation in the 2 groups were similar. The physiologic processes that could limit the unsteady-state decrease in PaCO2 in the patient group are analyzed, the analysis suggesting that a slower rate of increase in tissue consumption of O2 is most likely to account for the smaller decrease in PaO2.", "PMID": 434594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2213", "title": "Immunoglobulin concentrations in serum and nasal secretions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A matched-pair study.", "content": "Immunoglobulin concentrations were determined in the sera and nasal washes of 111 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who were 45 to 60 years of age and in 111 control subjects matched with the patients for age, sex, occupation, and smoking history who demonstrated normal 1-sec forced expiratory volume. Serum IgA, IgM, IgG, nad IgE were not significantly different in the 2 groups. Serum IgD was significantly higher in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Nasal wash IgD and IgM, expressed as percentages of total protein, were higher in index cases, but nasal wash IgA and IgG were comparable in both groups. The finding of relatively high concentrations of IgA, expressed as fractions of total protein, in respiratory secretions compared to serum is consistent with earlier findings that IgA is actively secreted from the respiratory epithelium and is not deficient locally in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In contrast, IgM and IgG expressed as proportions of total protein were consistently higher in sera than secretions. The IgE in nasal secretions was detected so seldom in this study that too few matched pairs were available for statistical analysis. The higher concentration of IgD in the serum and nasal secretions of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with their matched pairs and the associated higher frequency of low IgD in control subjects suggests that low IgD may be protective against the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Further studies on the biologic role of IgD may provide better understanding of these findings.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin concentrations in serum and nasal secretions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A matched-pair study. Immunoglobulin concentrations were determined in the sera and nasal washes of 111 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who were 45 to 60 years of age and in 111 control subjects matched with the patients for age, sex, occupation, and smoking history who demonstrated normal 1-sec forced expiratory volume. Serum IgA, IgM, IgG, nad IgE were not significantly different in the 2 groups. Serum IgD was significantly higher in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Nasal wash IgD and IgM, expressed as percentages of total protein, were higher in index cases, but nasal wash IgA and IgG were comparable in both groups. The finding of relatively high concentrations of IgA, expressed as fractions of total protein, in respiratory secretions compared to serum is consistent with earlier findings that IgA is actively secreted from the respiratory epithelium and is not deficient locally in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In contrast, IgM and IgG expressed as proportions of total protein were consistently higher in sera than secretions. The IgE in nasal secretions was detected so seldom in this study that too few matched pairs were available for statistical analysis. The higher concentration of IgD in the serum and nasal secretions of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with their matched pairs and the associated higher frequency of low IgD in control subjects suggests that low IgD may be protective against the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Further studies on the biologic role of IgD may provide better understanding of these findings.", "PMID": 434595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2214", "title": "Maximal expiratory flows after postural drainage.", "content": "Flows measured from maximal expiratory flow-volume (MEFV) curves were used to evaluate the efficacy of postural drainage in improving ventilatory function acutely. Maximal expiratory flow-volume curves were obtained for 9 cystic fibrosis subjects and 10 subjects with chronic bronchitis before and 5, 15, and 45 min after a 30-min session of postural drainage with percussion, vibration, and coughing. Forced vital capacity (FVC) was significantly increased 45 min after drainage for the combining group. Flows at high lung volumes were different for the 2 subgroups. Subjects with cystic fibrosis demonstrated a significant increase in peak expiratory flow rates 45 min after drainage and an increase in forced expiratory volume in one sec at all time intervals. The subjects with chronic bronchitis had a decreased peak expiratory flow rate 5 min after drainage, but by 45 min, it had returned to baseline. There was no significant change in one-sec forced expiratory volume at any time interval for the chronic bronchitis subgroup. Changes in flows at low lung volumes were similar for the 2 subgroups. Forty-five min after drainage there was an increase in flow rates near 50 per cent of FVC. Flows near 25 per cent of FVC were increased 15 and 45 min after drainage. This study demonstrated that postural drainage with coughing resulted in significant improvement in flows at low lung volumes. Changes in flows at high lung volumes were less consistent.", "contents": "Maximal expiratory flows after postural drainage. Flows measured from maximal expiratory flow-volume (MEFV) curves were used to evaluate the efficacy of postural drainage in improving ventilatory function acutely. Maximal expiratory flow-volume curves were obtained for 9 cystic fibrosis subjects and 10 subjects with chronic bronchitis before and 5, 15, and 45 min after a 30-min session of postural drainage with percussion, vibration, and coughing. Forced vital capacity (FVC) was significantly increased 45 min after drainage for the combining group. Flows at high lung volumes were different for the 2 subgroups. Subjects with cystic fibrosis demonstrated a significant increase in peak expiratory flow rates 45 min after drainage and an increase in forced expiratory volume in one sec at all time intervals. The subjects with chronic bronchitis had a decreased peak expiratory flow rate 5 min after drainage, but by 45 min, it had returned to baseline. There was no significant change in one-sec forced expiratory volume at any time interval for the chronic bronchitis subgroup. Changes in flows at low lung volumes were similar for the 2 subgroups. Forty-five min after drainage there was an increase in flow rates near 50 per cent of FVC. Flows near 25 per cent of FVC were increased 15 and 45 min after drainage. This study demonstrated that postural drainage with coughing resulted in significant improvement in flows at low lung volumes. Changes in flows at high lung volumes were less consistent.", "PMID": 434596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2215", "title": "Respiratory and nonrespiratory effects of doxapram in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome.", "content": "Doxapram is a respiratory stimulating drug that affects both peripheral chemoreceptors and medullary respiratory and nonrespiratory neurons. We administered doxapram 60 2 infants with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. In 6 separate trials at a dose range of 0.32 to 2.0 mg per kg of body weight per min, quiet-sleep tidal volume increased from 4.9 +/- 1.0 to 8.5 +/- 0.9 ml per kg of body weight, minute ventilation increased from 140 +/- 38 to 286 +/- 31 ml per kg of body weight per min, and alveolar PCO2 decreased from 60 +/- 5 to 32 +/- 2 mm Hg. In all instances, the maximal quiet-sleep ventilatory response was achieved within 10 min. The ventilatory response to steady-state CO2 breathing was not improved with doxapram. A continuous infusion of doxapram for 5.2 days in one infant successfully maintained normal quiet-sleep ventilation. In both infants, multiple nonrespiratory effects of doxapram occurred; enteral administration was associated only with generalized neuromuscular stimulation, but the 5-day intravenous infusion was also associated with acute hepatotoxicity and a perforated duodenal ulcer. The medullary respiratory neurons in central hypoventilation syndrome may be incapable of responding to doxapram, and the ventilatory responses observed may be due entirely to stimulation of peripheral chemoreceptors. Although quiet-sleep ventilation can be successfully maintained with intravenous and enteral administration of doxapram, and tachyphylaxis has not been observed, we have been unable to avoid at least the neuromuscular manifestations of nonrespiratory medullary stimulation.", "contents": "Respiratory and nonrespiratory effects of doxapram in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Doxapram is a respiratory stimulating drug that affects both peripheral chemoreceptors and medullary respiratory and nonrespiratory neurons. We administered doxapram 60 2 infants with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. In 6 separate trials at a dose range of 0.32 to 2.0 mg per kg of body weight per min, quiet-sleep tidal volume increased from 4.9 +/- 1.0 to 8.5 +/- 0.9 ml per kg of body weight, minute ventilation increased from 140 +/- 38 to 286 +/- 31 ml per kg of body weight per min, and alveolar PCO2 decreased from 60 +/- 5 to 32 +/- 2 mm Hg. In all instances, the maximal quiet-sleep ventilatory response was achieved within 10 min. The ventilatory response to steady-state CO2 breathing was not improved with doxapram. A continuous infusion of doxapram for 5.2 days in one infant successfully maintained normal quiet-sleep ventilation. In both infants, multiple nonrespiratory effects of doxapram occurred; enteral administration was associated only with generalized neuromuscular stimulation, but the 5-day intravenous infusion was also associated with acute hepatotoxicity and a perforated duodenal ulcer. The medullary respiratory neurons in central hypoventilation syndrome may be incapable of responding to doxapram, and the ventilatory responses observed may be due entirely to stimulation of peripheral chemoreceptors. Although quiet-sleep ventilation can be successfully maintained with intravenous and enteral administration of doxapram, and tachyphylaxis has not been observed, we have been unable to avoid at least the neuromuscular manifestations of nonrespiratory medullary stimulation.", "PMID": 434598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2216", "title": "Comparison of various methods for reading maximal expiratory flow-volume curves.", "content": "To determine the best procedure for reading maximal expiratory flow-volume curves 2 sets of 5 curves were obtained one hour apart in 89 subjects and processed digitally according to 8 different methods. Four indices were considered: the forced expiratory flows at 25, 50, and 75 per cent of the forced vital capacity, and the maximal mid-expiratory flow. When selecting the curve yielding the largest forced vital capacity or the largest sum of forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, flow values were significantly lower (P less than 0.001) and were often less reproducible than those obtained with most of the other methods. Computing the mean of the indices among the curves with the 2 largest forced vital capacities also provided comparatively low values, but with with better reproducibility. In contrast, maximal flows were probably overestimated by using the highest values among the curves having forced vital capacity or a surface area within 5 per cent of the largest, or when reading the indices on a composite curve obtained by superimposing individual breaths at residual volume. More reproducible and, probably, unbiased data may be drawn from the composite curves obtained by superimposing the breaths either at total lung capacity or on the descending limb.", "contents": "Comparison of various methods for reading maximal expiratory flow-volume curves. To determine the best procedure for reading maximal expiratory flow-volume curves 2 sets of 5 curves were obtained one hour apart in 89 subjects and processed digitally according to 8 different methods. Four indices were considered: the forced expiratory flows at 25, 50, and 75 per cent of the forced vital capacity, and the maximal mid-expiratory flow. When selecting the curve yielding the largest forced vital capacity or the largest sum of forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, flow values were significantly lower (P less than 0.001) and were often less reproducible than those obtained with most of the other methods. Computing the mean of the indices among the curves with the 2 largest forced vital capacities also provided comparatively low values, but with with better reproducibility. In contrast, maximal flows were probably overestimated by using the highest values among the curves having forced vital capacity or a surface area within 5 per cent of the largest, or when reading the indices on a composite curve obtained by superimposing individual breaths at residual volume. More reproducible and, probably, unbiased data may be drawn from the composite curves obtained by superimposing the breaths either at total lung capacity or on the descending limb.", "PMID": 434599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2217", "title": "Impaired alveolar macrophage chemotaxis in patients with acute smoke inhalation.", "content": "Pulmonary infection is a leading cause of death in patients with smoke inhalation; however, few studies have evaluated the effects of inhaled smoke on the host defense mechanisms of the lung. In this study we investigated the effects of acute smoke inhalation on the random and chemotactic (stimulated unidirectional) migration of human pulmonary alveolar macrophages. Fiberoptic subsegmental pulmonary lavage was performed in 19 normal subjects (12 nonsmokers and 7 smokers) and 7 patients with smoke inhalation. After quantification of lavaged cell populations, random and chemotactic migration was measured using modified Boyden chambers. Zymosan-activated serum was used as a chemotactic stimulant. Mean +/- SE random migration was 6.2 +/- 0.8 cells per 20 microscopic fields in smoking control subjects, 5.7 +/- 0.7 in nonsmoking control subjects, and 5.2 +/- 0.7 in patients with smoke inhalation. These values are not significantly different. In contrast, the mean directed (chemotactic) migration of pulmonary alveolar macrophages was 26.5 +/- 1.9 in smoking control subjects, 22.7 +/- 3.0 in nonsmoking control subjects, and 11.4 +/- 1.4 in patients with smoke inhalation; the latter response was significantly different from that of the smoking (P less than 0.001) and nonsmoking (P less than 0.025) control subjects and the combined average of the 2 control groups (P less than 0.001. In vitro exposure of pulmonary alveolar macrophages to nontoxic doses of smoke produced similar impairment of chemotaxis. These findings may partially explain the enhanced susceptibility of patients with smoke inhalation to pulmonary infection.", "contents": "Impaired alveolar macrophage chemotaxis in patients with acute smoke inhalation. Pulmonary infection is a leading cause of death in patients with smoke inhalation; however, few studies have evaluated the effects of inhaled smoke on the host defense mechanisms of the lung. In this study we investigated the effects of acute smoke inhalation on the random and chemotactic (stimulated unidirectional) migration of human pulmonary alveolar macrophages. Fiberoptic subsegmental pulmonary lavage was performed in 19 normal subjects (12 nonsmokers and 7 smokers) and 7 patients with smoke inhalation. After quantification of lavaged cell populations, random and chemotactic migration was measured using modified Boyden chambers. Zymosan-activated serum was used as a chemotactic stimulant. Mean +/- SE random migration was 6.2 +/- 0.8 cells per 20 microscopic fields in smoking control subjects, 5.7 +/- 0.7 in nonsmoking control subjects, and 5.2 +/- 0.7 in patients with smoke inhalation. These values are not significantly different. In contrast, the mean directed (chemotactic) migration of pulmonary alveolar macrophages was 26.5 +/- 1.9 in smoking control subjects, 22.7 +/- 3.0 in nonsmoking control subjects, and 11.4 +/- 1.4 in patients with smoke inhalation; the latter response was significantly different from that of the smoking (P less than 0.001) and nonsmoking (P less than 0.025) control subjects and the combined average of the 2 control groups (P less than 0.001. In vitro exposure of pulmonary alveolar macrophages to nontoxic doses of smoke produced similar impairment of chemotaxis. These findings may partially explain the enhanced susceptibility of patients with smoke inhalation to pulmonary infection.", "PMID": 434600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2218", "title": "Accuracy sensitivity to carboxyhemoglobin, and speed of response of the Hewlett-Packard 47201A ear oximeter.", "content": "We have shown that the Hewlett-Packard 47201A ear oximeter measures arterial O2 saturation within 95 per cent confidence limits of +/- 4 per cent when arterial blood saturation is more than 65 per cent, but at lower saturations the oximeter consistently provides a reading that is too low. The oximeter is sensitive to carboxyhemoglobin, progressively overestimating arterial saturation as carboxyhemoglobin concentration increases from 0 to 18 per cent. The time response is exponential, with a normal time constant of 3 sec, but this is halved in the fast mode or operation.", "contents": "Accuracy sensitivity to carboxyhemoglobin, and speed of response of the Hewlett-Packard 47201A ear oximeter. We have shown that the Hewlett-Packard 47201A ear oximeter measures arterial O2 saturation within 95 per cent confidence limits of +/- 4 per cent when arterial blood saturation is more than 65 per cent, but at lower saturations the oximeter consistently provides a reading that is too low. The oximeter is sensitive to carboxyhemoglobin, progressively overestimating arterial saturation as carboxyhemoglobin concentration increases from 0 to 18 per cent. The time response is exponential, with a normal time constant of 3 sec, but this is halved in the fast mode or operation.", "PMID": 434601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2219", "title": "The timing of the forced vital capacity.", "content": "Based on analysis of more than 2,500 forced vital capacity (FVC) maneuvers, we examined 2 aspects of the standards for spirometry recommended by the 1977 Snowbird Workshop concerning the timing of the FVC maneuver. We compared the forced expiratory volume in one sec (FEV1) when timing was initiated by the back extrapolation method with FEV1 when timing was initiated by flow or volume threshold to determine whether the latter offered a reliable equivalent. Although the mean differences appear to be relatively small, because of variability in initiating expiratory effort, neither alternative is likely to offer a uniformly accurate numeric equivalent to backward extrapolation. We also measured the volume expired before the initiation of the timing as a per cent of FVC to determine whether 10 per cent was a reasonable limit to apply for acceptability of a test. Although 2 SD from the mean of 4.35 per cent were well within this limit, it appears that the technician's judgment of acceptability is sufficient in most cases.", "contents": "The timing of the forced vital capacity. Based on analysis of more than 2,500 forced vital capacity (FVC) maneuvers, we examined 2 aspects of the standards for spirometry recommended by the 1977 Snowbird Workshop concerning the timing of the FVC maneuver. We compared the forced expiratory volume in one sec (FEV1) when timing was initiated by the back extrapolation method with FEV1 when timing was initiated by flow or volume threshold to determine whether the latter offered a reliable equivalent. Although the mean differences appear to be relatively small, because of variability in initiating expiratory effort, neither alternative is likely to offer a uniformly accurate numeric equivalent to backward extrapolation. We also measured the volume expired before the initiation of the timing as a per cent of FVC to determine whether 10 per cent was a reasonable limit to apply for acceptability of a test. Although 2 SD from the mean of 4.35 per cent were well within this limit, it appears that the technician's judgment of acceptability is sufficient in most cases.", "PMID": 434602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2220", "title": "Two-year mortality in 760 patients transported by helicopter direct from the road accident scene.", "content": "Of 760 direct admissions to a specialized trauma center, 173 (22.7%) victims of motor vehicle accidents died. Excluding patients dead on arrival, the mortality rate was 14.5%. Autopsy reports were reviewed and showed that the major cause of death was head injury (49.7%). Uncontrollable hemorrhage from massive trauma was the next most common problem and usually proved fatal in the first 24 hours after admission. The incidence of sepsis and renal failure increased with prolongation of CCRU stay. Following admission, respiratory failure was not a common cause of death (3%). Because of direct helicopter rather than ambulance transport from the scene of the motor vehicle accident, earlier attention was paid to diagnosis of trauma and treatment of respiratory insufficiency with mechanical ventilation. Because of the early initiation of therapy, there was rapid restoration of circulating volume and tissue perfusion. This may account for the low mortality.", "contents": "Two-year mortality in 760 patients transported by helicopter direct from the road accident scene. Of 760 direct admissions to a specialized trauma center, 173 (22.7%) victims of motor vehicle accidents died. Excluding patients dead on arrival, the mortality rate was 14.5%. Autopsy reports were reviewed and showed that the major cause of death was head injury (49.7%). Uncontrollable hemorrhage from massive trauma was the next most common problem and usually proved fatal in the first 24 hours after admission. The incidence of sepsis and renal failure increased with prolongation of CCRU stay. Following admission, respiratory failure was not a common cause of death (3%). Because of direct helicopter rather than ambulance transport from the scene of the motor vehicle accident, earlier attention was paid to diagnosis of trauma and treatment of respiratory insufficiency with mechanical ventilation. Because of the early initiation of therapy, there was rapid restoration of circulating volume and tissue perfusion. This may account for the low mortality.", "PMID": 434606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2221", "title": "Radiology and the massive trauma victim.", "content": "The radiologic protocol as presented above has evolved over a period of several years. It is currently is use, and with only rare exceptions, has been found to be completely adequate for the massively traumatized patient. Its most important aspect is that practically no time is expended in the radiologic assessment of the patient.", "contents": "Radiology and the massive trauma victim. The radiologic protocol as presented above has evolved over a period of several years. It is currently is use, and with only rare exceptions, has been found to be completely adequate for the massively traumatized patient. Its most important aspect is that practically no time is expended in the radiologic assessment of the patient.", "PMID": 434607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2222", "title": "Head injury and the dilated pupil.", "content": "The significance of the dilated pupil in head injury is discussed. History of this condition and its possible mechanisms are described. Three patient reports are presented with unilateral dilated pupil. The literature on the subject is reviewed. Finally, the diagnostic steps which may be taken to differentiate direct third nerve injury from expanding mass lesion are suggested.", "contents": "Head injury and the dilated pupil. The significance of the dilated pupil in head injury is discussed. History of this condition and its possible mechanisms are described. Three patient reports are presented with unilateral dilated pupil. The literature on the subject is reviewed. Finally, the diagnostic steps which may be taken to differentiate direct third nerve injury from expanding mass lesion are suggested.", "PMID": 434612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2223", "title": "External fixation of facial fractures.", "content": "Although external fixation is not indicated in every type of facial fracture, its use alone or with intermaxillary or internal fixation may be of benefit with problems resulting from avulsed segments, infection, inadequate previous reduction, delayed reduction, severe displacement and comminution, non-union, cerebrospinal fluid leak or where a combination of these factors exists. The judicious application of extraskeletal fixation can save valuable anesthetic time as well as assure accesibility of the pharynx and maintenance of an airway and routes for nutrition when these might otherwise be compromised. Although extraskeletal fixation is not withou problems or contraindications, it must be weighed in view of the patient's physical, mental and neurological status, and the existence of concomitant injuries.", "contents": "External fixation of facial fractures. Although external fixation is not indicated in every type of facial fracture, its use alone or with intermaxillary or internal fixation may be of benefit with problems resulting from avulsed segments, infection, inadequate previous reduction, delayed reduction, severe displacement and comminution, non-union, cerebrospinal fluid leak or where a combination of these factors exists. The judicious application of extraskeletal fixation can save valuable anesthetic time as well as assure accesibility of the pharynx and maintenance of an airway and routes for nutrition when these might otherwise be compromised. Although extraskeletal fixation is not withou problems or contraindications, it must be weighed in view of the patient's physical, mental and neurological status, and the existence of concomitant injuries.", "PMID": 434613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2224", "title": "Motor classification of spinal cord injuries with mobility, morbidity and recovery indices.", "content": "In this article, we have presented a new motor classification of patients with spinal cord injuries. This system of classification provides statistically discrete subdivisions. The patients in each of the subdivisions of the classification can be mathematically summarized with numerical indices which then may be accurately analyzed statistically. This allows the clinical researcher in spinal cord injuries to evaluate current treatments and assess the potential of new treatments and assess the potential of new treatment regimes. In addition, tables of MIi and recovery rates have been presented to aid in the correct classification of new patients and in the prediction of their present chances of motor recovery. Last, we have introduced a standardized motor examination, based on past experience, that will aid in the direct comparison of future results for any spinal cord treatment regimes.", "contents": "Motor classification of spinal cord injuries with mobility, morbidity and recovery indices. In this article, we have presented a new motor classification of patients with spinal cord injuries. This system of classification provides statistically discrete subdivisions. The patients in each of the subdivisions of the classification can be mathematically summarized with numerical indices which then may be accurately analyzed statistically. This allows the clinical researcher in spinal cord injuries to evaluate current treatments and assess the potential of new treatments and assess the potential of new treatment regimes. In addition, tables of MIi and recovery rates have been presented to aid in the correct classification of new patients and in the prediction of their present chances of motor recovery. Last, we have introduced a standardized motor examination, based on past experience, that will aid in the direct comparison of future results for any spinal cord treatment regimes.", "PMID": 434614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2225", "title": "Changing patterns of posttraumatic acute renal failure.", "content": "ARF will continue to occur as more severely traumatized patients survive with better resuscitation. The incidence of ARF, however, appears to be steadily decreasing and ARF occurs only in patients with severe injury and multiple organ failure. ARF developing for the past three years in MIEMS was a nonoliguric variety in the majority of patients. Management of ORF with dialysis has been disappointing. Prevention of oliguria in ARF appears possible and may be one of the most important steps to decrease the morbidity and fatality rate. Further investigation is required to find the cause and optimum management of NORF.", "contents": "Changing patterns of posttraumatic acute renal failure. ARF will continue to occur as more severely traumatized patients survive with better resuscitation. The incidence of ARF, however, appears to be steadily decreasing and ARF occurs only in patients with severe injury and multiple organ failure. ARF developing for the past three years in MIEMS was a nonoliguric variety in the majority of patients. Management of ORF with dialysis has been disappointing. Prevention of oliguria in ARF appears possible and may be one of the most important steps to decrease the morbidity and fatality rate. Further investigation is required to find the cause and optimum management of NORF.", "PMID": 434616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2226", "title": "Rehabilitation of the trauma patient.", "content": "Many rehabilitation methods are directed at prevention during the acute management of the trauma patient. Their success is measured by the absence of secondary disabilities. Their cost in relation to health care can be estimated. Figures from 1972 showing cost estimates for treatment of common complications are as follows: Decubitus ulcers $7,000, Urinary tract infection 5,000, Kidney stones 5,000, Thrombophlebitis with pulmonary embolism 4,000, Pneumonia 3,000, Contractual deformities 2,000. Current inflation would revise the above costs at least 25%. It is also important to note that the cost of such complications to the individual is immeasurable in time and energy and quality of life.", "contents": "Rehabilitation of the trauma patient. Many rehabilitation methods are directed at prevention during the acute management of the trauma patient. Their success is measured by the absence of secondary disabilities. Their cost in relation to health care can be estimated. Figures from 1972 showing cost estimates for treatment of common complications are as follows: Decubitus ulcers $7,000, Urinary tract infection 5,000, Kidney stones 5,000, Thrombophlebitis with pulmonary embolism 4,000, Pneumonia 3,000, Contractual deformities 2,000. Current inflation would revise the above costs at least 25%. It is also important to note that the cost of such complications to the individual is immeasurable in time and energy and quality of life.", "PMID": 434619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2227", "title": "The unexpected increase of serum insulin levels in patients soon after trauma.", "content": "Serum insulin values elevated above the normal fasting range, i.e., 19.0-43.4 microU/ml (mean 27.9 +/- 6.4) were found on admission in 18.2% of patients with various forms of acute injury. Concomitant mean serum glucose level was 184 +/- 59 mg/100 ml compared with 81 +/- 6 mg/100 ml found in overnight fasting normal subjects. In this group of patients, the mean and the highest insulin elevations above the control mean value were 170% (85 microU/ml) and 940% (290 microU/ml) respectively. In individuals admitted directly from the scene of an accident, the mean insulin increase was significantly smaller (95%; p less than 0.01) than in patients transferred from other hospitals-203% (68 microU/ml ) in contrast to 940% (290 microU/ml) found in the transfer subgroup. Mean serum glucose concentrations in both subgroups differed similarly (p less than 0.02). The magnitude of the insulin increase did not correlate with severity or type of injury but showed a strong dependence on the time elapsed following trauma. Strong hyperinsulinemia appears to be less detrimental to survival than severe hypoinsulinemia manifested with a very low insulin-to-glucose ratio. Since both forms of insulinemia may occur under similar clinical conditions, early routine determinations of serum insulin levels are recommended in order to introduce effective therapeutic measures.", "contents": "The unexpected increase of serum insulin levels in patients soon after trauma. Serum insulin values elevated above the normal fasting range, i.e., 19.0-43.4 microU/ml (mean 27.9 +/- 6.4) were found on admission in 18.2% of patients with various forms of acute injury. Concomitant mean serum glucose level was 184 +/- 59 mg/100 ml compared with 81 +/- 6 mg/100 ml found in overnight fasting normal subjects. In this group of patients, the mean and the highest insulin elevations above the control mean value were 170% (85 microU/ml) and 940% (290 microU/ml) respectively. In individuals admitted directly from the scene of an accident, the mean insulin increase was significantly smaller (95%; p less than 0.01) than in patients transferred from other hospitals-203% (68 microU/ml ) in contrast to 940% (290 microU/ml) found in the transfer subgroup. Mean serum glucose concentrations in both subgroups differed similarly (p less than 0.02). The magnitude of the insulin increase did not correlate with severity or type of injury but showed a strong dependence on the time elapsed following trauma. Strong hyperinsulinemia appears to be less detrimental to survival than severe hypoinsulinemia manifested with a very low insulin-to-glucose ratio. Since both forms of insulinemia may occur under similar clinical conditions, early routine determinations of serum insulin levels are recommended in order to introduce effective therapeutic measures.", "PMID": 434620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2228", "title": "The subcellular pathology of shock in trauma patients: studies using the immediate autopsy.", "content": "In summary, our immediate autopsy program provides a new tool for investigating the pathophysiologic effects of shock and trauma at the cellular and subcellular levels. By minimizing the time delay between death and tissue sampling with this technique, we have demonstrated the feasibility of validly applying the refinements of electron microscopy, histochemistry and analytical biochemistry to human tissue. Qualitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative data with these techniques have been integrated with clinical, physiologic and chemical studies on these patients during life. Cell injury produces an altered steady state of metabolism within the cell, evidence of which is seen in altered ultrastructure. If the injury is too severe, the cell will pass the \"point-of-no-return,\" at which time the changes in the cell are no longer compatible with life and the cell dies and undergoes necrosis. Although the initiating injury and the patterns of the altered steady state may vary, once the cell has passed the \"point-of-no-return,\" the patterns of cell injury regardless of the initial insult, are similar. We believe that the cellular patterns seen in patients dying from shock and trauma are remarkably similar to those produced by hypoxic tissue injury in experimental systems. Tissue from control patients in whom ischemic injury due to episodes of hypotension did not occur show good morphologic preservation with normal mitochondria and other cell organelles. Tissue from patients who have experienced acute shock consisting of a period of hypotensive ischemia show changes in the mitochondria and ER compatible with the experimental picture of hypoxia: i.e., dilated ER, with loss of ribosomes, swelling of mitochondria and the appearance of flocculent densities in the mitochondria. Tissues taken from the patients who had experienced repeated episodes of shock, whom we designated as those in \"chronic shock,\" showed changes paralleling the acute changes, but also showed much evidence of autophagocytosis as a) the cells attempted to achieve a lower metabolic requirement in order to survive, and b) they attempted to \"clean-up\" and remove altered and damaged organelles and debris from previous bouts with sublethal ischemic injury. We hope that the increased knowledge of tissue and cellular injury obtained by the immediate autopsy will provide a means of integration, hypothesis formation and testing of the vast knowledge of cell biology and pathology, and the opportunity for developing in the human the potential for testing new hypotheses in model systems resulting in immediate and innovative feedback for the patient in terms of diagnosis, functional monitoring and treatment.", "contents": "The subcellular pathology of shock in trauma patients: studies using the immediate autopsy. In summary, our immediate autopsy program provides a new tool for investigating the pathophysiologic effects of shock and trauma at the cellular and subcellular levels. By minimizing the time delay between death and tissue sampling with this technique, we have demonstrated the feasibility of validly applying the refinements of electron microscopy, histochemistry and analytical biochemistry to human tissue. Qualitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative data with these techniques have been integrated with clinical, physiologic and chemical studies on these patients during life. Cell injury produces an altered steady state of metabolism within the cell, evidence of which is seen in altered ultrastructure. If the injury is too severe, the cell will pass the \"point-of-no-return,\" at which time the changes in the cell are no longer compatible with life and the cell dies and undergoes necrosis. Although the initiating injury and the patterns of the altered steady state may vary, once the cell has passed the \"point-of-no-return,\" the patterns of cell injury regardless of the initial insult, are similar. We believe that the cellular patterns seen in patients dying from shock and trauma are remarkably similar to those produced by hypoxic tissue injury in experimental systems. Tissue from control patients in whom ischemic injury due to episodes of hypotension did not occur show good morphologic preservation with normal mitochondria and other cell organelles. Tissue from patients who have experienced acute shock consisting of a period of hypotensive ischemia show changes in the mitochondria and ER compatible with the experimental picture of hypoxia: i.e., dilated ER, with loss of ribosomes, swelling of mitochondria and the appearance of flocculent densities in the mitochondria. Tissues taken from the patients who had experienced repeated episodes of shock, whom we designated as those in \"chronic shock,\" showed changes paralleling the acute changes, but also showed much evidence of autophagocytosis as a) the cells attempted to achieve a lower metabolic requirement in order to survive, and b) they attempted to \"clean-up\" and remove altered and damaged organelles and debris from previous bouts with sublethal ischemic injury. We hope that the increased knowledge of tissue and cellular injury obtained by the immediate autopsy will provide a means of integration, hypothesis formation and testing of the vast knowledge of cell biology and pathology, and the opportunity for developing in the human the potential for testing new hypotheses in model systems resulting in immediate and innovative feedback for the patient in terms of diagnosis, functional monitoring and treatment.", "PMID": 434622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2229", "title": "Cerium nitrate-silver sulfadiazine cream in the treatment of burns: a prospective, randomized study.", "content": "In a prospective, randomized study of 34 patients with thermal burns, treatment with the topical agent Cerium nitrate-silver sulfadiazine was compared with therapy with silver sulfadiazine alone. Despite randomization, there was a significant difference in mean burn size, being larger in the silver sulfadiazine group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in clinical course, mortality, septic deaths, or quantitative microbiology of the burn wound. It is concluded that from these preliminary data no clearcut superiority for one cream over the other can be demonstrated at this time.", "contents": "Cerium nitrate-silver sulfadiazine cream in the treatment of burns: a prospective, randomized study. In a prospective, randomized study of 34 patients with thermal burns, treatment with the topical agent Cerium nitrate-silver sulfadiazine was compared with therapy with silver sulfadiazine alone. Despite randomization, there was a significant difference in mean burn size, being larger in the silver sulfadiazine group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in clinical course, mortality, septic deaths, or quantitative microbiology of the burn wound. It is concluded that from these preliminary data no clearcut superiority for one cream over the other can be demonstrated at this time.", "PMID": 434623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2230", "title": "Clinical aspects of Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "Since the initial description of Legionnaires' disease 2 years ago, a clearer picture of its clinical manifestations has emerged as a result of investigations of further epidemics and studies of laboratory-confirmed sporadic cases. Although individual clinical features are not sufficiently distinctive to distinguish Legionnaires' disease from other types of acute pneumonia, a composite can provide a sufficiently characteristic clinical profile to indicate the likelihood of this diagnosis. Such a profile includes high fever (above 39.4 degrees C); recurrent chills; relative bradycardia; early gastrointestinal symptoms (particularly diarrhea); prominent myalgias; microscopic hematuria; liver function abnormalities; toxic encephalopathy; nonproductive cough; absence of bacterial pathogens on Gram stain and culture of transtracheal aspirate; progression from patchy bronchopneumonia to lobar and multilobar consolidation; and frequently prompt and sometimes dramatic response to treatment with erythromycin.", "contents": "Clinical aspects of Legionnaires' disease. Since the initial description of Legionnaires' disease 2 years ago, a clearer picture of its clinical manifestations has emerged as a result of investigations of further epidemics and studies of laboratory-confirmed sporadic cases. Although individual clinical features are not sufficiently distinctive to distinguish Legionnaires' disease from other types of acute pneumonia, a composite can provide a sufficiently characteristic clinical profile to indicate the likelihood of this diagnosis. Such a profile includes high fever (above 39.4 degrees C); recurrent chills; relative bradycardia; early gastrointestinal symptoms (particularly diarrhea); prominent myalgias; microscopic hematuria; liver function abnormalities; toxic encephalopathy; nonproductive cough; absence of bacterial pathogens on Gram stain and culture of transtracheal aspirate; progression from patchy bronchopneumonia to lobar and multilobar consolidation; and frequently prompt and sometimes dramatic response to treatment with erythromycin.", "PMID": 434624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2231", "title": "Epidemiology of Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "Ten recorded epidemics of Legionnaires' disease are reviewed to gain a working perspective on the epidemiology of the disease. Salient features have included a summer-fall seasonality, a male predominance that may largely reflect increased exposure risk among men, and a striking absence of person-to-person spread. That the disease is spread primarily via the airborne route is well established; air-treatment and air-conditioning equipment has been implicated as the amplification and delivery system in four epidemics. Soils and excavation sites have been suggested as sources of the organism in at least one recorded epidemic. Evidence to date suggests that the Legionnaires' disease bacterium may be widespread in nature. More complete epidemiologic understanding must await development of improved microbiologic and immunologic tests.", "contents": "Epidemiology of Legionnaires' disease. Ten recorded epidemics of Legionnaires' disease are reviewed to gain a working perspective on the epidemiology of the disease. Salient features have included a summer-fall seasonality, a male predominance that may largely reflect increased exposure risk among men, and a striking absence of person-to-person spread. That the disease is spread primarily via the airborne route is well established; air-treatment and air-conditioning equipment has been implicated as the amplification and delivery system in four epidemics. Soils and excavation sites have been suggested as sources of the organism in at least one recorded epidemic. Evidence to date suggests that the Legionnaires' disease bacterium may be widespread in nature. More complete epidemiologic understanding must await development of improved microbiologic and immunologic tests.", "PMID": 434625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2232", "title": "Immunology and immunopathology of Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "The immune response to the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium has been shown serologically. Recent evidence suggests significant differences in seroreactivity depending on the source of antigen; these data now unequivocally show strain variation for the LD bacterium. Nothing is known about the cellular immune reactivity in patients with Legionnaires' disease. There is little evidence that the lesions and manifestations of the disease are due to immunopathologic mechanisms. Possible explanations for the pathogenesis of pulmonary lesions in Legionnaires' disease include toxic factors, bacterial chemotactic factors, neutral proteases (with complement cleaving activity), lipopolysaccharides, and products of lymphocytes.", "contents": "Immunology and immunopathology of Legionnaires' disease. The immune response to the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium has been shown serologically. Recent evidence suggests significant differences in seroreactivity depending on the source of antigen; these data now unequivocally show strain variation for the LD bacterium. Nothing is known about the cellular immune reactivity in patients with Legionnaires' disease. There is little evidence that the lesions and manifestations of the disease are due to immunopathologic mechanisms. Possible explanations for the pathogenesis of pulmonary lesions in Legionnaires' disease include toxic factors, bacterial chemotactic factors, neutral proteases (with complement cleaving activity), lipopolysaccharides, and products of lymphocytes.", "PMID": 434626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2233", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: clinical features of the epidemic in Philadelphia.", "content": "A review of the medical records of 123 persons with Legionnaires' disease hospitalized in the 1976 Philadelphia epidemic showed that the manifestations of infection ranged from mild grippe to a severe pneumonia that also involved other organ systems. Early in the illness, constitutional symptoms predominated. Fever, malaise, myalgia, rigors, confusion, headache, and diarrhea were usually followed by nonproductive cough and dyspnea. Physical examination showed few abnormalities other than rales. Moderate leukocytosis with left shift, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, elevation of serum levels of liver enzymes, and hematuria and proteinuria were characteristic. Chest radiograph showed patchy, often nodular, areas of consolidation. Progression of pneumonia led to respiratory failure and the need for mechanical ventilatory assistance for 19 patients; renal failure, primarily after shock, occurred in 18 persons. Twenty-six patients died. Treatment with erythromycin or tetracycline resulted in the lowest case-fatality ratios, but the associations were not statistically significant.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease: clinical features of the epidemic in Philadelphia. A review of the medical records of 123 persons with Legionnaires' disease hospitalized in the 1976 Philadelphia epidemic showed that the manifestations of infection ranged from mild grippe to a severe pneumonia that also involved other organ systems. Early in the illness, constitutional symptoms predominated. Fever, malaise, myalgia, rigors, confusion, headache, and diarrhea were usually followed by nonproductive cough and dyspnea. Physical examination showed few abnormalities other than rales. Moderate leukocytosis with left shift, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, elevation of serum levels of liver enzymes, and hematuria and proteinuria were characteristic. Chest radiograph showed patchy, often nodular, areas of consolidation. Progression of pneumonia led to respiratory failure and the need for mechanical ventilatory assistance for 19 patients; renal failure, primarily after shock, occurred in 18 persons. Twenty-six patients died. Treatment with erythromycin or tetracycline resulted in the lowest case-fatality ratios, but the associations were not statistically significant.", "PMID": 434627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2234", "title": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease: the expanding clinical spectrum.", "content": "An analysis of seven sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease confirmed clinical features recorded during epidemics and identified aspects of the illness either unreported or not emphasized. Four patients had central nervous system abnormalities. Mental status changes included somnolence, obtundation, delirium, disorientation, and confusion. Three patients experienced visual hallucinations, and one patient without pneumonia had a grand mal seizure with residual memory deficit. Two patients had disseminated intravascular coagulation with thrombocytopenia, elevated split fibrin products, and prolonged partial thromboplastin and prothrombin times. Four patients had severe hypoxia; one patient had an exudative pleuritis. One patient whose treatment included erythromycin had radiologic improvement of his pneumonia despite deteriorating ventilatory function that led to death. The concept of Legionnaires' disease as a severe, diagnostically perplexing pneumonic illness is valid but too narrow. The emerging spectrum is that of a multisystem disease that, besides the lungs, often involves the central nervous system and can be accompanied by disseminated intravascular coagulation.", "contents": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease: the expanding clinical spectrum. An analysis of seven sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease confirmed clinical features recorded during epidemics and identified aspects of the illness either unreported or not emphasized. Four patients had central nervous system abnormalities. Mental status changes included somnolence, obtundation, delirium, disorientation, and confusion. Three patients experienced visual hallucinations, and one patient without pneumonia had a grand mal seizure with residual memory deficit. Two patients had disseminated intravascular coagulation with thrombocytopenia, elevated split fibrin products, and prolonged partial thromboplastin and prothrombin times. Four patients had severe hypoxia; one patient had an exudative pleuritis. One patient whose treatment included erythromycin had radiologic improvement of his pneumonia despite deteriorating ventilatory function that led to death. The concept of Legionnaires' disease as a severe, diagnostically perplexing pneumonic illness is valid but too narrow. The emerging spectrum is that of a multisystem disease that, besides the lungs, often involves the central nervous system and can be accompanied by disseminated intravascular coagulation.", "PMID": 434628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2235", "title": "Early clinical differentiation between Legionnaires' disease and other sporadic pneumonias.", "content": "Early diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease is difficult because other pathogens cause a similar clinical picture and microbiologic tests are usually only of retrospective value. Since May 1977, 17 patients with sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease have been admitted, all previously well, the diagnosis being made with standard serologic or bacteriologic criteria. From the clinical, laboratory, and radiologic findings, we propose criteria that may enable the clinician to make a diagnosis earlier in many cases, differentiating them from other pneumonias. Within 24 hours of admission, any three of the following four features are strongly suggestive of Legionnaires' disease: [1] prodromal \"viral\" illness, [2] dry cough or confusion or diarrhoea, [3] lymphopenia without marked neutrophilia, [4] hyponatremia. Two thirds of cases had at least three of these features, and no false-positive diagnoses would have been made in other pneumonias that were serologically negative for Legionnaires' disease if these proposed criteria had been applied diagnostically. In the next few days the diagnosis is very likely if microbiologic tests are negative and if there is radiologic extension, abnormal liver function test results, or hypoalbuminemia.", "contents": "Early clinical differentiation between Legionnaires' disease and other sporadic pneumonias. Early diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease is difficult because other pathogens cause a similar clinical picture and microbiologic tests are usually only of retrospective value. Since May 1977, 17 patients with sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease have been admitted, all previously well, the diagnosis being made with standard serologic or bacteriologic criteria. From the clinical, laboratory, and radiologic findings, we propose criteria that may enable the clinician to make a diagnosis earlier in many cases, differentiating them from other pneumonias. Within 24 hours of admission, any three of the following four features are strongly suggestive of Legionnaires' disease: [1] prodromal \"viral\" illness, [2] dry cough or confusion or diarrhoea, [3] lymphopenia without marked neutrophilia, [4] hyponatremia. Two thirds of cases had at least three of these features, and no false-positive diagnoses would have been made in other pneumonias that were serologically negative for Legionnaires' disease if these proposed criteria had been applied diagnostically. In the next few days the diagnosis is very likely if microbiologic tests are negative and if there is radiologic extension, abnormal liver function test results, or hypoalbuminemia.", "PMID": 434629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2236", "title": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in the Netherlands.", "content": "Sera of 24 patients with an unexplained pneumonia were tested for the presence of antibodies against the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. Fifteen patients had positive serology. The series comprised 12 male and three female patients ranging in age from 17 to 66 years (mean, 51.1 years). All of the patients had a high fever, little or no sputum production, and radiographic evidence of pneumonia. The radiographic abnormalities ranged from a patchy infiltrate to extensive consolidation. In eight patients with confirmed Legionnaires' disease, severe confusion was one of the most striking signs. A variety of antibiotics had no clear effect on the duration of the illness in these cases, although the severity seemed to be influenced. Two of the patients died, and in three the course was protracted. All cases were sporadic. Eight patients had been infected abroad and seven in the Netherlands, two of whom were on immunosuppressive therapy and were infected in a hospital.", "contents": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in the Netherlands. Sera of 24 patients with an unexplained pneumonia were tested for the presence of antibodies against the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. Fifteen patients had positive serology. The series comprised 12 male and three female patients ranging in age from 17 to 66 years (mean, 51.1 years). All of the patients had a high fever, little or no sputum production, and radiographic evidence of pneumonia. The radiographic abnormalities ranged from a patchy infiltrate to extensive consolidation. In eight patients with confirmed Legionnaires' disease, severe confusion was one of the most striking signs. A variety of antibiotics had no clear effect on the duration of the illness in these cases, although the severity seemed to be influenced. Two of the patients died, and in three the course was protracted. All cases were sporadic. Eight patients had been infected abroad and seven in the Netherlands, two of whom were on immunosuppressive therapy and were infected in a hospital.", "PMID": 434630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2237", "title": "Comparative features of pneumococcal, mycoplasmal, and Legionnaires' disease pneumonias.", "content": "Retrospectively, we clinically compared community-acquired cases of Legionnaires' disease, pneumococcal, and mycoplasmal pneumonias. Relative to pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias, patients with Legionnaires' disease were significantly more likely to present with unexplained encephalopathy, hematuria, and elevation of serum glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase than were those with pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias. We found upper respiratory symptoms infrequently in patients with Legionnaires' disease, and progression of pulmonary infiltrates occurred commonly. Differentiation of Legionnaires' disease pneumonia without encephalopathy from pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias may be difficult because of demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiographic similarities.", "contents": "Comparative features of pneumococcal, mycoplasmal, and Legionnaires' disease pneumonias. Retrospectively, we clinically compared community-acquired cases of Legionnaires' disease, pneumococcal, and mycoplasmal pneumonias. Relative to pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias, patients with Legionnaires' disease were significantly more likely to present with unexplained encephalopathy, hematuria, and elevation of serum glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase than were those with pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias. We found upper respiratory symptoms infrequently in patients with Legionnaires' disease, and progression of pulmonary infiltrates occurred commonly. Differentiation of Legionnaires' disease pneumonia without encephalopathy from pneumococcal and mycoplasmal pneumonias may be difficult because of demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiographic similarities.", "PMID": 434631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2238", "title": "Macroscopic pathology of the lungs in Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "We used the whole lung section technique to review the macroscopic pathology in 12 patients who died with Legionnaires' disease. None of these patients had been treated with erythromycin. Consolidation was evenly distributed throughout all lobes without a consistent segmental distribution. The smallest lesions were around bronchioles or bounded by lobular septa. In most cases there was confluent involvement of multiple lobules. Extensive consolidation made distinction between a lobar and confluent lobular distribution difficult. Abscesses were present in two cases and nodular infiltrates in two others. In five additional patients, Legionnaires' disease had been treated with erythromycin. Four had a clinical response to treatment, and the fifth had diffuse staphylococcal pneumonia as the predominant lesion. Because the lungs of all five patients contained bacteria other than the Legionnaires' disease bacterium at the time of autopsy, it was difficult to ascertain the role of Legionnaires' disease bacterium in the pathology.", "contents": "Macroscopic pathology of the lungs in Legionnaires' disease. We used the whole lung section technique to review the macroscopic pathology in 12 patients who died with Legionnaires' disease. None of these patients had been treated with erythromycin. Consolidation was evenly distributed throughout all lobes without a consistent segmental distribution. The smallest lesions were around bronchioles or bounded by lobular septa. In most cases there was confluent involvement of multiple lobules. Extensive consolidation made distinction between a lobar and confluent lobular distribution difficult. Abscesses were present in two cases and nodular infiltrates in two others. In five additional patients, Legionnaires' disease had been treated with erythromycin. Four had a clinical response to treatment, and the fifth had diffuse staphylococcal pneumonia as the predominant lesion. Because the lungs of all five patients contained bacteria other than the Legionnaires' disease bacterium at the time of autopsy, it was difficult to ascertain the role of Legionnaires' disease bacterium in the pathology.", "PMID": 434632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2239", "title": "Pulmonary sequelae of acute Legionnaires' disease pneumonia.", "content": "Patients with acute Legionnaires' disease (LD) pneumonia may have persistent chronic pulmonary changes, as shown by the histologic appearance of specimens of lung from patients who had survived and autopsy specimens from patients who died after a protracted clinical course. Acute pneumonia was not seen in these lungs, and LD organisms could not be identified by the direct fluorescent antibody technique or the Dieterle silver impregnation strain; instead, there was organizing pneumonia with various degrees of interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. The LD pneumonia may fail to resolve, and the lung parenchyma in areas of previous acute inflammation is not restored to normal in some patients.", "contents": "Pulmonary sequelae of acute Legionnaires' disease pneumonia. Patients with acute Legionnaires' disease (LD) pneumonia may have persistent chronic pulmonary changes, as shown by the histologic appearance of specimens of lung from patients who had survived and autopsy specimens from patients who died after a protracted clinical course. Acute pneumonia was not seen in these lungs, and LD organisms could not be identified by the direct fluorescent antibody technique or the Dieterle silver impregnation strain; instead, there was organizing pneumonia with various degrees of interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. The LD pneumonia may fail to resolve, and the lung parenchyma in areas of previous acute inflammation is not restored to normal in some patients.", "PMID": 434633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2240", "title": "Ultrastructure of lung in Legionnaires' disease. Observations of three biopsies done during the Vermont epidemic.", "content": "Open lung biopsies from three patients with Legionnaires' disease were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The patients had serious underlying disease. All developed a rapidly progressive pneumonia unresponsive to penicillin, oxacillin, and gentamicin. One patient, who received erythromycin, survived. Light microscopy in all three showed severe acute bronchopneumonia. The Legionnaires' disease bacterium was seen in tissue sections and confirmed by direct immunofluorescence. Transmission electron microscopy showed numerous rod-shaped intracellular organisms that were morphologically similar to other gram-negative bacteria and the Rickettsieae. They were within phagolysosomes, free in the cytoplasm, and rarely within structures resembling dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. Lung tissue changes included marked detachment and necrosis of alveolar pneumocytes, septal and alveolar exudate with lysis, and prominent endothelial cell swelling and degeneration. Capillary and epithelial basement membranes were consistently intact, suggesting that the tissue changes are potentially capable of reverting to normal structure and function.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of lung in Legionnaires' disease. Observations of three biopsies done during the Vermont epidemic. Open lung biopsies from three patients with Legionnaires' disease were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The patients had serious underlying disease. All developed a rapidly progressive pneumonia unresponsive to penicillin, oxacillin, and gentamicin. One patient, who received erythromycin, survived. Light microscopy in all three showed severe acute bronchopneumonia. The Legionnaires' disease bacterium was seen in tissue sections and confirmed by direct immunofluorescence. Transmission electron microscopy showed numerous rod-shaped intracellular organisms that were morphologically similar to other gram-negative bacteria and the Rickettsieae. They were within phagolysosomes, free in the cytoplasm, and rarely within structures resembling dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. Lung tissue changes included marked detachment and necrosis of alveolar pneumocytes, septal and alveolar exudate with lysis, and prominent endothelial cell swelling and degeneration. Capillary and epithelial basement membranes were consistently intact, suggesting that the tissue changes are potentially capable of reverting to normal structure and function.", "PMID": 434634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2241", "title": "Legionnaires' disease and the traveller.", "content": "Respiratory illness occurred in members of a \"package tour\" to Benidorm, Spain, in 1973. Three of the tourists died with similar pneumonic illnesses, and 86 other travellers who had stayed at the same hotel also had respiratory illnesses. After the organism associated with the epidemic of Legionnaires' disease in Philadelphia 3 years later was identified, sera from patients involved with the \"Benidorm episode\" were tested. Evidence of infection with the Legionnaires' disease bacterium was obtained from sera from three of the patients who had died and from sera of two of the surviving tourists. Six of 16 members of the staff of the hotel involved had elevated titres to the LD bacterium, suggesting that there may be persistent or recurrent activity in a particular building or locality over a period of years. Surveys of travellers returning to Scotland have shown a large amount of illness, and studies are being conducted to determine the proportion caused by Legionnaires' disease.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease and the traveller. Respiratory illness occurred in members of a \"package tour\" to Benidorm, Spain, in 1973. Three of the tourists died with similar pneumonic illnesses, and 86 other travellers who had stayed at the same hotel also had respiratory illnesses. After the organism associated with the epidemic of Legionnaires' disease in Philadelphia 3 years later was identified, sera from patients involved with the \"Benidorm episode\" were tested. Evidence of infection with the Legionnaires' disease bacterium was obtained from sera from three of the patients who had died and from sera of two of the surviving tourists. Six of 16 members of the staff of the hotel involved had elevated titres to the LD bacterium, suggesting that there may be persistent or recurrent activity in a particular building or locality over a period of years. Surveys of travellers returning to Scotland have shown a large amount of illness, and studies are being conducted to determine the proportion caused by Legionnaires' disease.", "PMID": 434635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2242", "title": "Legionnaires' disease in Kingport, Tennessee.", "content": "In August and September 1977 a discrete cluster of 27 serologically or pathologically confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease, plus six highly presumptive cases were identified in the area of Kingsport, Tennessee. Three patients died. Most patients manifested severe pneumonia and fever; no mild or asymptomatic disease forms were recognized despite intensive case-finding efforts. Illness was epidemiologically associated with residing, visiting, or working in one geographic area of Kingsport, residence there being the factor most strongly associated. Although the attack rate for area residents was 0.64%, the randomly determined prevalence of serologic reactors was 5.2%, which is not significantly different from that in a nonimplicated control neighborhood. The epidemic did not correlate temporally with any identified environmental or demographic event. No source of the bacterium was found either by a detailed case-control study of area associations or by bacterial isolation from sentinel guinea pigs or environmental specimens. There was no evidence of person-to-person spread.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease in Kingport, Tennessee. In August and September 1977 a discrete cluster of 27 serologically or pathologically confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease, plus six highly presumptive cases were identified in the area of Kingsport, Tennessee. Three patients died. Most patients manifested severe pneumonia and fever; no mild or asymptomatic disease forms were recognized despite intensive case-finding efforts. Illness was epidemiologically associated with residing, visiting, or working in one geographic area of Kingsport, residence there being the factor most strongly associated. Although the attack rate for area residents was 0.64%, the randomly determined prevalence of serologic reactors was 5.2%, which is not significantly different from that in a nonimplicated control neighborhood. The epidemic did not correlate temporally with any identified environmental or demographic event. No source of the bacterium was found either by a detailed case-control study of area associations or by bacterial isolation from sentinel guinea pigs or environmental specimens. There was no evidence of person-to-person spread.", "PMID": 434636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2243", "title": "The Vermont epidemic of Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "Sixty-nine laboratory-documented cases of Legionnaires' disease occurred in Vermont between 1 May and 31 December 1977. Clinical manifestations were similar to those in the 1976 Philadelphia epidemic. Case-control studies suggested that Legionnaires' disease patients were more likely to present with headache or diarrhea than were patients with pneumonia of presumed nonbacterial cause. The case-fatality ratio for patients treated with erythromycin was 4%, compared with 17% in patients not treated with erythromycin. Thirteen patients had been hospitalized throughout the 10 days preceding onset of illness, equaling the maximal known incubation period. This suggests either acquisition or reactivation of infection in the hospital. However, even during the week of peak disease activity, cases occurred in patients with no recent hospital contact. The only community factor possibly associated with acquisition was home air conditioning. This prevalence of seroreactivity to the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in various community populations was as high as 26%, suggesting a possible endemic area.", "contents": "The Vermont epidemic of Legionnaires' disease. Sixty-nine laboratory-documented cases of Legionnaires' disease occurred in Vermont between 1 May and 31 December 1977. Clinical manifestations were similar to those in the 1976 Philadelphia epidemic. Case-control studies suggested that Legionnaires' disease patients were more likely to present with headache or diarrhea than were patients with pneumonia of presumed nonbacterial cause. The case-fatality ratio for patients treated with erythromycin was 4%, compared with 17% in patients not treated with erythromycin. Thirteen patients had been hospitalized throughout the 10 days preceding onset of illness, equaling the maximal known incubation period. This suggests either acquisition or reactivation of infection in the hospital. However, even during the week of peak disease activity, cases occurred in patients with no recent hospital contact. The only community factor possibly associated with acquisition was home air conditioning. This prevalence of seroreactivity to the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in various community populations was as high as 26%, suggesting a possible endemic area.", "PMID": 434637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2244", "title": "Summertime pneumonias in Philadelphia in 1976. An epidemiologic study.", "content": "Summertime pneumonias in Philadelphia during 1976 were studied epidemiologically, and the epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory features of pneumonia cases serologically positive for Legionnaires' disease were compared with features of serologically negative cases. Both groups were similar in many respects, but in patients with Legionnaires' disease diarrhea and neurologic findings were significantly more frequent (P = 0.01 and P = 0.05 respectively). A diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease was also suggested by an elevated serum creatinine phosphokinase level (P = 0.02) and the presence of occult blood in the urine with fewer than six erythrocytes per highpower field. Abnormalities in renal function tests or liver function tests were commoner in patients with Legionnaires' disease (P = 0.05). Radiographic features, however, could not be used to separate pneumonia cases. The high frequency of extrapulmonary manifestations involving the gastrointestinal tract, the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver suggests that Legionnaires' disease is a multisystemic disorder possibly caused by a toxin-producing organism.", "contents": "Summertime pneumonias in Philadelphia in 1976. An epidemiologic study. Summertime pneumonias in Philadelphia during 1976 were studied epidemiologically, and the epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory features of pneumonia cases serologically positive for Legionnaires' disease were compared with features of serologically negative cases. Both groups were similar in many respects, but in patients with Legionnaires' disease diarrhea and neurologic findings were significantly more frequent (P = 0.01 and P = 0.05 respectively). A diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease was also suggested by an elevated serum creatinine phosphokinase level (P = 0.02) and the presence of occult blood in the urine with fewer than six erythrocytes per highpower field. Abnormalities in renal function tests or liver function tests were commoner in patients with Legionnaires' disease (P = 0.05). Radiographic features, however, could not be used to separate pneumonia cases. The high frequency of extrapulmonary manifestations involving the gastrointestinal tract, the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver suggests that Legionnaires' disease is a multisystemic disorder possibly caused by a toxin-producing organism.", "PMID": 434638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2245", "title": "Legionnaires' disease in Nottingham, England.", "content": "Legionnaires' disease bacterium was identified as the cause of severe pneumonia in some Nottingham, England, patients in 1977. Laboratory studies were not restricted to Nottingham but included several other areas in England. The 41 cases identified were evenly divided between areas; they also accounted for about one half of all cases for the entire country. No source of infection has been identified in these sporadic cases. There was no contact between patients, and only a few had travelled abroad before their illnesses. Serologic sampling of populations in Nottingham did not reveal a large background of infection. Only 31 of 2023 sera tested had low titer antibody to the Pontiac antigen used. Guinea-pig antisera to two positive lung extracts showed an antigenic relation to the Pontiac but not to the Togus strain,suggesting strain variation.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease in Nottingham, England. Legionnaires' disease bacterium was identified as the cause of severe pneumonia in some Nottingham, England, patients in 1977. Laboratory studies were not restricted to Nottingham but included several other areas in England. The 41 cases identified were evenly divided between areas; they also accounted for about one half of all cases for the entire country. No source of infection has been identified in these sporadic cases. There was no contact between patients, and only a few had travelled abroad before their illnesses. Serologic sampling of populations in Nottingham did not reveal a large background of infection. Only 31 of 2023 sera tested had low titer antibody to the Pontiac antigen used. Guinea-pig antisera to two positive lung extracts showed an antigenic relation to the Pontiac but not to the Togus strain,suggesting strain variation.", "PMID": 434639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2246", "title": "A major focus of Legionnaires' disease in Bloomington, Indiana.", "content": "Thirty-nine cases of Legionnaires' disease in a 16-month period were identified in visitors to and residents of Bloomington, Indiana. Thirty-five patients had spent at least one night at the Indiana Memorial Union in the 2 weeks before becoming ill. Five of 32 sporadic cases nationwide between 1 January and 31 March 1978 were retrospectively shown to be in persons who had recently visited the Union. The risk of acquiring Legionnaires' disease as a Union visitor was at least 17 times greater than that for Bloomington residents 20 years or older. Employees who had worked at the Union 5 years or longer were more likely to be seropositive than workers in other Bloomington hotels. Legionnaires' disease bacterium was isolated from five environmental sites in Bloomington. A cooling tower may have been involved in disease spread, but it was not the only source. Hypochlorite solution was added to cooling tower water as a precautionary measure; however, one case was confirmed in a man with Union exposure 9 days after hypochlorite treatment had begun.", "contents": "A major focus of Legionnaires' disease in Bloomington, Indiana. Thirty-nine cases of Legionnaires' disease in a 16-month period were identified in visitors to and residents of Bloomington, Indiana. Thirty-five patients had spent at least one night at the Indiana Memorial Union in the 2 weeks before becoming ill. Five of 32 sporadic cases nationwide between 1 January and 31 March 1978 were retrospectively shown to be in persons who had recently visited the Union. The risk of acquiring Legionnaires' disease as a Union visitor was at least 17 times greater than that for Bloomington residents 20 years or older. Employees who had worked at the Union 5 years or longer were more likely to be seropositive than workers in other Bloomington hotels. Legionnaires' disease bacterium was isolated from five environmental sites in Bloomington. A cooling tower may have been involved in disease spread, but it was not the only source. Hypochlorite solution was added to cooling tower water as a precautionary measure; however, one case was confirmed in a man with Union exposure 9 days after hypochlorite treatment had begun.", "PMID": 434640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2247", "title": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in Great Britain.", "content": "Data on sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in Great Britain reported to the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, London, and the Communicable Diseases (Scotland) Unit, Glasgow, were analysed. Eighty-four cases, including 18 patients who died, were identified with dates of onset between 1 January 1976 and 30 September 1978. The age and sex distribution showed a predominance of middle-aged men. The incidence trends suggest that true seasonal variation may occur. Eighteen patients developed illness during or shortly after a holiday abroad. All patients had pneumonia, but many also had features suggesting involvement of the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Person-to-person spread was not observed.", "contents": "Sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in Great Britain. Data on sporadic cases of Legionnaires' disease in Great Britain reported to the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, London, and the Communicable Diseases (Scotland) Unit, Glasgow, were analysed. Eighty-four cases, including 18 patients who died, were identified with dates of onset between 1 January 1976 and 30 September 1978. The age and sex distribution showed a predominance of middle-aged men. The incidence trends suggest that true seasonal variation may occur. Eighteen patients developed illness during or shortly after a holiday abroad. All patients had pneumonia, but many also had features suggesting involvement of the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Person-to-person spread was not observed.", "PMID": 434641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2248", "title": "Sporadic community-acquired Legionnaires' disease in the United States. A case-control study.", "content": "One hundred patients with sporadic, community-acquired, serologically confirmed Legionnaires' disease were matched with control subjects known by the patients (acquaintance controls) and control subjects chosen from among patients with negative serodiagnostic tests for Legionnaires' disease (clinical controls). Each clinical control subject was also matched with an acquaintance control of his own. Legionnaires' disease patients had smoked more cigarettes, consumed more alcohol, and were more likely to have resided near excavation sites than acquaintance or clinical control subjects. Parallel differences between clinical controls and their acquaintances were not seen. Legionnaires' disease patients had traveled away from home for more time during the 2 weeks before onset of illness than had their acquaintances. The difference was of greater magnitude than that between clinical control subjects and their acquaintances. Legionnaires' disease patients were more likely to have resided near construction sites than clinical controls, and there were more construction workers among patients than among clinical control subjects.", "contents": "Sporadic community-acquired Legionnaires' disease in the United States. A case-control study. One hundred patients with sporadic, community-acquired, serologically confirmed Legionnaires' disease were matched with control subjects known by the patients (acquaintance controls) and control subjects chosen from among patients with negative serodiagnostic tests for Legionnaires' disease (clinical controls). Each clinical control subject was also matched with an acquaintance control of his own. Legionnaires' disease patients had smoked more cigarettes, consumed more alcohol, and were more likely to have resided near excavation sites than acquaintance or clinical control subjects. Parallel differences between clinical controls and their acquaintances were not seen. Legionnaires' disease patients had traveled away from home for more time during the 2 weeks before onset of illness than had their acquaintances. The difference was of greater magnitude than that between clinical control subjects and their acquaintances. Legionnaires' disease patients were more likely to have resided near construction sites than clinical controls, and there were more construction workers among patients than among clinical control subjects.", "PMID": 434642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2249", "title": "Prevalence of antibody to the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in hospital employees.", "content": "A sereopidemiologic survey was done to ascertain the level of immunity in a population of hospital employees after contact with patients with Legionnaires' disease. Two matched groups were compared: hospital staff in positions of contact with patients diagnosed with the disease (N1 = 215), and hospital staff not in a position of contact with patients diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease (N2 = 269). Antibody titer was measured by the hemagglutination technique. Subjects from N1 and N2 were surveyed for age, sex, race, smoking, patient care unit, air conditioning unit, occupation, symptoms, and patient contact. No significant correlation was found between titer distribution and any one of the first seven factors. The prevalence of antibody (greater than or equal to 128) was 9.3% and 3.7% (P less than 0.02) for the N1 and N2 groups. Also, 40% of employees with titers of 128 or above had had an unexplained febrile respiratory illness in the preceding year. This study suggests the possibility of person-to-person transmission in Legionnaires' disease.", "contents": "Prevalence of antibody to the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in hospital employees. A sereopidemiologic survey was done to ascertain the level of immunity in a population of hospital employees after contact with patients with Legionnaires' disease. Two matched groups were compared: hospital staff in positions of contact with patients diagnosed with the disease (N1 = 215), and hospital staff not in a position of contact with patients diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease (N2 = 269). Antibody titer was measured by the hemagglutination technique. Subjects from N1 and N2 were surveyed for age, sex, race, smoking, patient care unit, air conditioning unit, occupation, symptoms, and patient contact. No significant correlation was found between titer distribution and any one of the first seven factors. The prevalence of antibody (greater than or equal to 128) was 9.3% and 3.7% (P less than 0.02) for the N1 and N2 groups. Also, 40% of employees with titers of 128 or above had had an unexplained febrile respiratory illness in the preceding year. This study suggests the possibility of person-to-person transmission in Legionnaires' disease.", "PMID": 434643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2250", "title": "Legionnaires' disease in pneumonia patients in Iowa. A retrospective seroepidemiologic study, 1972-1977.", "content": "The frequency of Legionnaires' disease among 586 cases of pneumonia that occurred in Iowa between fiscal years 1972 and 1977 was studied retrospectively on the basis of paired sera. The frequency of confirmed Legionnaires' disease was 4.1% and of presumptive Legionnaires' disease was 11.4%. Infections with the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium were most frequent in the summer. Of the 22% of pneumonias for which a cause could be defined, Legionnaires' disease was third in frequency behind Mycoplasma pneumoniae and influenza A virus infections. Infections with the LD bacterium occurred in association with pneumonias in most age groups. The youngest patient with LD infection was a 5-year-old boy with pneumonia. The disease occurred 3.2 times more often in males than in females. In males, the frequency of confirmed and presumptive Legionnaires' disease increased steadily to plateau after the fourth decade at about 12% and 28%, respectively. In females the frequency of presumptive Legionnaires' disease was 7% to 16%, relatively evenly distributed over all age groups. Pneumonias associated with LD bacterium infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonias in most age groups.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease in pneumonia patients in Iowa. A retrospective seroepidemiologic study, 1972-1977. The frequency of Legionnaires' disease among 586 cases of pneumonia that occurred in Iowa between fiscal years 1972 and 1977 was studied retrospectively on the basis of paired sera. The frequency of confirmed Legionnaires' disease was 4.1% and of presumptive Legionnaires' disease was 11.4%. Infections with the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium were most frequent in the summer. Of the 22% of pneumonias for which a cause could be defined, Legionnaires' disease was third in frequency behind Mycoplasma pneumoniae and influenza A virus infections. Infections with the LD bacterium occurred in association with pneumonias in most age groups. The youngest patient with LD infection was a 5-year-old boy with pneumonia. The disease occurred 3.2 times more often in males than in females. In males, the frequency of confirmed and presumptive Legionnaires' disease increased steadily to plateau after the fourth decade at about 12% and 28%, respectively. In females the frequency of presumptive Legionnaires' disease was 7% to 16%, relatively evenly distributed over all age groups. Pneumonias associated with LD bacterium infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonias in most age groups.", "PMID": 434644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2251", "title": "Relation of Mycoplasma pneumoniae seroreactivity, immunosuppression, and chronic disease to Legionnaires' disease. A twelve-month prospective study of sporadic cases in Massachusetts.", "content": "From April 1977 through March 1978, 28 presumptive cases of Legionnaires' disease were identified among 432 consecutive candidates having paired sera or tissue samples submitted to the Massachusetts Public Health Laboratories. Among the subgroup of 209 candidates with documented diffuse pneumonia and temperature of 39 degrees C or above, 24 (11.5%) had Legionnaires' disease whereas the diagnostic yield was only four of 223 (1.8%) among the remainder. The case-fatality rate was two of 28 (7%). Patients with Legionnaires' disease when compared to the entire group of candidates were similar in mean age (49 versus 48 years) and frequency of immunosuppressant therapy (15% versus 12%) but were more often male (64% versus 47%) with underlying chronic illness (46% versus 22%). Complement fixation tests against Mycoplasma pneumoniae (whole organisms) showed seroreactivity in 81% of Legionnaires' disease (LD) cases (22 to 27) compared to 13% of non-LD cases; conversely, 29% of all cases seropositive for M. pneumoniae (22 of 75) were seropositive for the LD bacterium compared to only 1% (five of 357) of the remainder. The coincidence of seroreactivity for M. pneumoniae and the LD bacterium is unexplained but suggests that M. pneumoniae seropositive cases should be evaluated for the possibility of Legionnaires' disease.", "contents": "Relation of Mycoplasma pneumoniae seroreactivity, immunosuppression, and chronic disease to Legionnaires' disease. A twelve-month prospective study of sporadic cases in Massachusetts. From April 1977 through March 1978, 28 presumptive cases of Legionnaires' disease were identified among 432 consecutive candidates having paired sera or tissue samples submitted to the Massachusetts Public Health Laboratories. Among the subgroup of 209 candidates with documented diffuse pneumonia and temperature of 39 degrees C or above, 24 (11.5%) had Legionnaires' disease whereas the diagnostic yield was only four of 223 (1.8%) among the remainder. The case-fatality rate was two of 28 (7%). Patients with Legionnaires' disease when compared to the entire group of candidates were similar in mean age (49 versus 48 years) and frequency of immunosuppressant therapy (15% versus 12%) but were more often male (64% versus 47%) with underlying chronic illness (46% versus 22%). Complement fixation tests against Mycoplasma pneumoniae (whole organisms) showed seroreactivity in 81% of Legionnaires' disease (LD) cases (22 to 27) compared to 13% of non-LD cases; conversely, 29% of all cases seropositive for M. pneumoniae (22 of 75) were seropositive for the LD bacterium compared to only 1% (five of 357) of the remainder. The coincidence of seroreactivity for M. pneumoniae and the LD bacterium is unexplained but suggests that M. pneumoniae seropositive cases should be evaluated for the possibility of Legionnaires' disease.", "PMID": 434645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2252", "title": "Fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease: clinical and epidemiologic characteristics.", "content": "The occurrence, clinical, and epidemiologic characteristics of fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease were ascertained by examining a sample of autopsy specimens submitted by hospitals participating in the National Nosocomial Infections Study. Sections of lung tissue from 263 patients were submitted by 40 hospitals in 24 states. Legionnaires' disease was identified in 10 patients (3.8%) from six hospitals in five states. The clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of sporadic fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease were similar to those from cases that occurred during epidemics of Legionnaires' diseases. A case-control study showed that cases of Legionnaires' disease were associated with an increased occurrence of Legionnaires' disease during the period June through November, temperatures greater than 39.2 degrees C, and administration of corticosteroids before onset of pneumonia. Legionnaires' disease can occur as a fatal nosocomial pneumonia and has clinical and epidemiologic features that may be helpful in differentiating it from nosocomial pneumonia of other causes.", "contents": "Fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease: clinical and epidemiologic characteristics. The occurrence, clinical, and epidemiologic characteristics of fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease were ascertained by examining a sample of autopsy specimens submitted by hospitals participating in the National Nosocomial Infections Study. Sections of lung tissue from 263 patients were submitted by 40 hospitals in 24 states. Legionnaires' disease was identified in 10 patients (3.8%) from six hospitals in five states. The clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of sporadic fatal nosocomial Legionnaires' disease were similar to those from cases that occurred during epidemics of Legionnaires' diseases. A case-control study showed that cases of Legionnaires' disease were associated with an increased occurrence of Legionnaires' disease during the period June through November, temperatures greater than 39.2 degrees C, and administration of corticosteroids before onset of pneumonia. Legionnaires' disease can occur as a fatal nosocomial pneumonia and has clinical and epidemiologic features that may be helpful in differentiating it from nosocomial pneumonia of other causes.", "PMID": 434646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2253", "title": "\"Endotoxicity\" of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium.", "content": "The Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium is a gram-negative organism whose \"endotoxicity\" appears to differ in several respects from the classic endotoxicity generally associated with gram-negative bacteria. Discrepancies were noted between the high activity of LD bacteria in gelating limulus lysate in vitro and their low pyrogenicity in rabbits. Further in-vivo biologic tests indicated that LD bacteria were relatively weak in \"endotoxicity\". Analysis of LD bacterial cells and in their cellular fractions by gas-liquid chromatography indicated that LD bacteria did not contain hydroxy fatty acids commonly associated with lipid A of endotoxin. The branched-chain fatty acids that were characteristic of LD bacteria were associated with the cell envelope, and were readily extracted into organic solvents without prior saponification. The presence of 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate in LD bacteria and cell extracts was detected by a microassay method but remains to be confirmed with gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The active principle \"endotoxicity\" in LD bacteria may be a new type of bacterial lipopolysaccharide.", "contents": "\"Endotoxicity\" of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. The Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium is a gram-negative organism whose \"endotoxicity\" appears to differ in several respects from the classic endotoxicity generally associated with gram-negative bacteria. Discrepancies were noted between the high activity of LD bacteria in gelating limulus lysate in vitro and their low pyrogenicity in rabbits. Further in-vivo biologic tests indicated that LD bacteria were relatively weak in \"endotoxicity\". Analysis of LD bacterial cells and in their cellular fractions by gas-liquid chromatography indicated that LD bacteria did not contain hydroxy fatty acids commonly associated with lipid A of endotoxin. The branched-chain fatty acids that were characteristic of LD bacteria were associated with the cell envelope, and were readily extracted into organic solvents without prior saponification. The presence of 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate in LD bacteria and cell extracts was detected by a microassay method but remains to be confirmed with gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The active principle \"endotoxicity\" in LD bacteria may be a new type of bacterial lipopolysaccharide.", "PMID": 434647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2254", "title": "The cell envelope of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. Morphologic and biochemical characteristics.", "content": "We studied the cell-envelope structure of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium by electron microscopy and biochemical assays. There were apparent differences in cell structure by electron microscopy using two different prefixation methods. Organisms prefixed with gluteraldehyde had a single surrounding membrane. The typical two-membrane structure of gram-negative bacteria, however, was observed after prefixation with a combination of gluteraldehyde, formalin, and creosol. The cell wall (peptidoglycan) was seen in electron micrographs of plasmolyzed bacteria and in papain-digested cells. Both cytoplasmic and outer membranes were separated by differential centrifugation of spheroplast sonicates followed by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation. We identified each membrane by characteristic enzyme activity (cytoplasmic membrane) and 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate content (outer membrane).", "contents": "The cell envelope of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. Morphologic and biochemical characteristics. We studied the cell-envelope structure of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium by electron microscopy and biochemical assays. There were apparent differences in cell structure by electron microscopy using two different prefixation methods. Organisms prefixed with gluteraldehyde had a single surrounding membrane. The typical two-membrane structure of gram-negative bacteria, however, was observed after prefixation with a combination of gluteraldehyde, formalin, and creosol. The cell wall (peptidoglycan) was seen in electron micrographs of plasmolyzed bacteria and in papain-digested cells. Both cytoplasmic and outer membranes were separated by differential centrifugation of spheroplast sonicates followed by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation. We identified each membrane by characteristic enzyme activity (cytoplasmic membrane) and 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate content (outer membrane).", "PMID": 434648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2255", "title": "Cellular lipids of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium.", "content": "We qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed the simple and complex lipids of 10 Legionnaires' disease bacteria. The phospholipids in decreasing order of concentration were phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, cardiolipin, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidyldimethylethanolamine. The total phospholipids averaged 96 micromoles per gram dry cell weight. Phospholipid fatty acids were solely branched-chain fatty acids and were, in decreasing order of concentration, iso-C16:0, anteiso-C15:0, anteiso-C17:0, iso-C14:0, iso-C16:1, and an unidentified fatty acid. Neutral lipids identified were free fatty acid, ubiquinone, triglyceride, diglyceride, monoglyceride, and wax ester. Neutral lipid fatty acids consisted predominately of branched-chain fatty acids, normal fatty acids, and a minor unidentified fatty acid. Analysis of the cellular lipids of 10 Legionnaires' disease bacteria revealed an unusual and novel microorganism.", "contents": "Cellular lipids of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. We qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed the simple and complex lipids of 10 Legionnaires' disease bacteria. The phospholipids in decreasing order of concentration were phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, cardiolipin, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidyldimethylethanolamine. The total phospholipids averaged 96 micromoles per gram dry cell weight. Phospholipid fatty acids were solely branched-chain fatty acids and were, in decreasing order of concentration, iso-C16:0, anteiso-C15:0, anteiso-C17:0, iso-C14:0, iso-C16:1, and an unidentified fatty acid. Neutral lipids identified were free fatty acid, ubiquinone, triglyceride, diglyceride, monoglyceride, and wax ester. Neutral lipid fatty acids consisted predominately of branched-chain fatty acids, normal fatty acids, and a minor unidentified fatty acid. Analysis of the cellular lipids of 10 Legionnaires' disease bacteria revealed an unusual and novel microorganism.", "PMID": 434649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2256", "title": "A high molecular weight antigen in Legionnaires' disease bacterium: isolation and partial characterization.", "content": "We isolated a high molecular weight antigen of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium by column chromatography. The antigen was composed of 35% carbohydrate, 2.6% protein, 1.8% phospholipid, and 1% 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate and was important in the host's antibody response because it inhibited the indirect immunofluorescent and microagglutination titers of convalescent sera from patients with Legionnaires' disease. The antigen also formed precipitin bands with seven of 10 convalescent sera from patients with Legionnaires' disease. We found chemical and biological evidence of endotoxinlike activity associated with the antigen. Cell sonicates and acid extracts of the LD bacterium gave multiple bands in immunodiffusion with human convalescent serum and rabbit antisera prepared against heat-killed LD bacteria. The antigenic structure of the LD bacterium therefore appears complex.", "contents": "A high molecular weight antigen in Legionnaires' disease bacterium: isolation and partial characterization. We isolated a high molecular weight antigen of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium by column chromatography. The antigen was composed of 35% carbohydrate, 2.6% protein, 1.8% phospholipid, and 1% 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate and was important in the host's antibody response because it inhibited the indirect immunofluorescent and microagglutination titers of convalescent sera from patients with Legionnaires' disease. The antigen also formed precipitin bands with seven of 10 convalescent sera from patients with Legionnaires' disease. We found chemical and biological evidence of endotoxinlike activity associated with the antigen. Cell sonicates and acid extracts of the LD bacterium gave multiple bands in immunodiffusion with human convalescent serum and rabbit antisera prepared against heat-killed LD bacteria. The antigenic structure of the LD bacterium therefore appears complex.", "PMID": 434650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2257", "title": "Surface topography and fine structure of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. A study of six isolates from hospitalized patients.", "content": "Six clinical isolates of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium have been isolated from patients in two Michigan hospitals. These organisms were recovered and cultivated in vitro and the strains named by city of recovery and order of isolation Detroit 1 to 4 and Flint 1 and 2. All strains, studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy preparations from 7-day growth on agar, showed similar characteristics. By scanning electron microscopy the cells appeared bacillary, straight, and slightly curved, and spindle shapes and forms with rounded ends were observed. Detroit 2 and 3 and Flint 1 strains showed cells with ends having reduced diameters, the cells resembling an old-fashioned rolling pin. Cell widths ranged from 0.29 to 0.39 micron, and average lengths varied from 1.60 to 2.34 microns. Filamentous forms as long as 9.8 microns were observed. Surfaces appeared quite wrinkled compared to that of an Escherichia coli control organism. As seen by transmission electron microscopy, fine structure included a multilayered cell wall characteristic of gram-negative bacteria that was irregular, reflecting wrinkling; plasma membrane; and periplasmic space. Distinct nucleoid, intracytoplasmic ribosomes and rare vacuoles were also seen. No evidence of a spore or an adversity-resistant body was observed.", "contents": "Surface topography and fine structure of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. A study of six isolates from hospitalized patients. Six clinical isolates of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium have been isolated from patients in two Michigan hospitals. These organisms were recovered and cultivated in vitro and the strains named by city of recovery and order of isolation Detroit 1 to 4 and Flint 1 and 2. All strains, studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy preparations from 7-day growth on agar, showed similar characteristics. By scanning electron microscopy the cells appeared bacillary, straight, and slightly curved, and spindle shapes and forms with rounded ends were observed. Detroit 2 and 3 and Flint 1 strains showed cells with ends having reduced diameters, the cells resembling an old-fashioned rolling pin. Cell widths ranged from 0.29 to 0.39 micron, and average lengths varied from 1.60 to 2.34 microns. Filamentous forms as long as 9.8 microns were observed. Surfaces appeared quite wrinkled compared to that of an Escherichia coli control organism. As seen by transmission electron microscopy, fine structure included a multilayered cell wall characteristic of gram-negative bacteria that was irregular, reflecting wrinkling; plasma membrane; and periplasmic space. Distinct nucleoid, intracytoplasmic ribosomes and rare vacuoles were also seen. No evidence of a spore or an adversity-resistant body was observed.", "PMID": 434651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2258", "title": "Classification of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium: Legionella pneumophila, genus novum, species nova, of the family Legionellaceae, familia nova.", "content": "Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) relatedness was used to classify strains of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium. These DNA comparisons showed that all strains of the LD bacterium were members of the same species. Included were strains isolated from the environment and strains with three different O-antigens. The DNA from the LD bacterium was not significantly related to DNA from any other group of bacteria that was tested. Biochemical data, growth characteristics, and guanine-plus-cytosine ratios were used to rule out the possibility that the LD bacterium was significantly related to members of genera whose DNA was not tested. In view of these data we propose that the LD bacterium be named Legionella pneumophila species nova, the type species of Legionella, genus novum. The type strain of L. pneumophila is Philadelphia 1.", "contents": "Classification of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium: Legionella pneumophila, genus novum, species nova, of the family Legionellaceae, familia nova. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) relatedness was used to classify strains of the Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacterium. These DNA comparisons showed that all strains of the LD bacterium were members of the same species. Included were strains isolated from the environment and strains with three different O-antigens. The DNA from the LD bacterium was not significantly related to DNA from any other group of bacteria that was tested. Biochemical data, growth characteristics, and guanine-plus-cytosine ratios were used to rule out the possibility that the LD bacterium was significantly related to members of genera whose DNA was not tested. In view of these data we propose that the LD bacterium be named Legionella pneumophila species nova, the type species of Legionella, genus novum. The type strain of L. pneumophila is Philadelphia 1.", "PMID": 434652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2259", "title": "Survival of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in water.", "content": "Data from this study indicate that the Legionniares' disease bacterium can survive for a relatively long period of time in water. Four strains survived in distilled water for 69 to 139 d and for 364 to 369 d in tap water. Viable cells from two strains were recovered from tap water at 408 to 415 d. There were no surviving bacteria in cooling-tower water after 24 to 48 h. The rapid die-off was probably due to bactericidal agents added to the water to control growth.", "contents": "Survival of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in water. Data from this study indicate that the Legionniares' disease bacterium can survive for a relatively long period of time in water. Four strains survived in distilled water for 69 to 139 d and for 364 to 369 d in tap water. Viable cells from two strains were recovered from tap water at 408 to 415 d. There were no surviving bacteria in cooling-tower water after 24 to 48 h. The rapid die-off was probably due to bactericidal agents added to the water to control growth.", "PMID": 434653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2260", "title": "Cooling towers and evaporative condensers.", "content": "By 31 October 1978 there had been four confirmed instances where the Legionnaires' disease bacterium had been isolated from water samples taken from cooling towers or evaporative condensers located near the site of an epidemic of Legionnaires' disease. These devices are widely used to reject unwanted heat into the atmosphere and vary greatly in size and configuration. However, the operation of all towers and condensers depends on intimate contact between the circulating water and ambient air. Airborne contaminants in the vicinity of these devices are likely to be absorbed to some degree by the circulating water. The airstream leaving a cooling tower is saturated with water vapor and may also contain a relatively minute portion of the circulating water in the form of fine droplets known as drift. It is common practice to bleed a small portion of the circulating water, including all contaminants, from the tower into a storm sewer, sanitary sewer, or even a nearby body of water.", "contents": "Cooling towers and evaporative condensers. By 31 October 1978 there had been four confirmed instances where the Legionnaires' disease bacterium had been isolated from water samples taken from cooling towers or evaporative condensers located near the site of an epidemic of Legionnaires' disease. These devices are widely used to reject unwanted heat into the atmosphere and vary greatly in size and configuration. However, the operation of all towers and condensers depends on intimate contact between the circulating water and ambient air. Airborne contaminants in the vicinity of these devices are likely to be absorbed to some degree by the circulating water. The airstream leaving a cooling tower is saturated with water vapor and may also contain a relatively minute portion of the circulating water in the form of fine droplets known as drift. It is common practice to bleed a small portion of the circulating water, including all contaminants, from the tower into a storm sewer, sanitary sewer, or even a nearby body of water.", "PMID": 434654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2261", "title": "Immunologic protection against the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in the AKR/J mouse.", "content": "Female AKR/J mice were challenged with the Washington strain of Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacteria. Nonimmunized mice inoculate intraperitoneally with 2 x 10(8) colony forming units became ill within 4 h and died within 24 h. Progressive histopathologic changes initiated as early as 2 h after inoculation involved the lymphoid organs, the crypts of the small intestine, and the liver. Necrosis with minimal inflammatory cell reaction was the primary lesion. Immunization with a soluble LD bacterial antigen failed to prevent illness but protected against death and development of abnormal histologic changes.", "contents": "Immunologic protection against the Legionnaires' disease bacterium in the AKR/J mouse. Female AKR/J mice were challenged with the Washington strain of Legionnaires' disease (LD) bacteria. Nonimmunized mice inoculate intraperitoneally with 2 x 10(8) colony forming units became ill within 4 h and died within 24 h. Progressive histopathologic changes initiated as early as 2 h after inoculation involved the lymphoid organs, the crypts of the small intestine, and the liver. Necrosis with minimal inflammatory cell reaction was the primary lesion. Immunization with a soluble LD bacterial antigen failed to prevent illness but protected against death and development of abnormal histologic changes.", "PMID": 434655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2262", "title": "Immunoglobulin specificity of the microagglutination test for the Legionnaires' disease bacterium.", "content": "Differences in results of microagglutination tests for the Legionnaires' disease bacterium on untreated sera and sera treated with 2-mercaptoethanol suggest that, like other agglutination tests, the microagglutination test is heavily dependent on the presence of IgM antibody.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin specificity of the microagglutination test for the Legionnaires' disease bacterium. Differences in results of microagglutination tests for the Legionnaires' disease bacterium on untreated sera and sera treated with 2-mercaptoethanol suggest that, like other agglutination tests, the microagglutination test is heavily dependent on the presence of IgM antibody.", "PMID": 434656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2263", "title": "Legionnaires' disease antigen detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.", "content": "An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method has been developed for the rapid detection of antigen from clinical specimens such as urine and sputum. Preliminary evidence suggests that the antigen is present and can be detected in the sputum and possibly urine of patients with Legionnaires' disease. Patients not harboring the Legionnaires' disease bacterium have been uniformly negative to date.", "contents": "Legionnaires' disease antigen detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method has been developed for the rapid detection of antigen from clinical specimens such as urine and sputum. Preliminary evidence suggests that the antigen is present and can be detected in the sputum and possibly urine of patients with Legionnaires' disease. Patients not harboring the Legionnaires' disease bacterium have been uniformly negative to date.", "PMID": 434657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2264", "title": "Bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the management of ventricular fibrillation.", "content": "We assessed the influence of bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation upon outcome in 316 consecutive patients treated for out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation. Of 109 patients who received bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 47 (43%) were ultimately discharged home. Of 207 patients for whom resuscitation was delayed until arrival of fire department personnel, 43 (21%) survived (P less than 0.001). Improved survival was largely due to a reduction in subsequent hospital mortality rather than to a higher rate of initially effective resuscitation. In a separate analysis of 118 patients treated at a single institution after resuscitation, the reduced hospital mortality reflected a decrease in deaths due to shock and to anoxic encephalopathy. In addition, neurologic dysfunction was significantly less common if bystanders had initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Bystander participation in cardiopulmonary resuscitation represents an important adjunct to a rapid-response emergency care system.", "contents": "Bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the management of ventricular fibrillation. We assessed the influence of bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation upon outcome in 316 consecutive patients treated for out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation. Of 109 patients who received bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 47 (43%) were ultimately discharged home. Of 207 patients for whom resuscitation was delayed until arrival of fire department personnel, 43 (21%) survived (P less than 0.001). Improved survival was largely due to a reduction in subsequent hospital mortality rather than to a higher rate of initially effective resuscitation. In a separate analysis of 118 patients treated at a single institution after resuscitation, the reduced hospital mortality reflected a decrease in deaths due to shock and to anoxic encephalopathy. In addition, neurologic dysfunction was significantly less common if bystanders had initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Bystander participation in cardiopulmonary resuscitation represents an important adjunct to a rapid-response emergency care system.", "PMID": 434671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2265", "title": "Dementia, renal failure, and brain aluminum.", "content": "Dialysis dementia is a progressive and usually fatal neurologic syndrome occurring in patients on chronic hemodialysis. These patients may also have elevated levels of aluminum (Al+3) in the cerebral cortex. Possible relations between brain Al+3, increased Al+3 intake, and dementia were evaluated. Studies were done in seven groups of patients and five groups of experimental animals. In both normal dogs and rats and those with renal failure, oral Al+3 loading (Al[OH]3), resulted in significant increases of brain Al+3 (P less than 0.01). In patients with renal failure, who were neither demented nor treated with dialysis, brain Al+3 was more than seven times normal (P less than 0.01), whereas in patients with dialysis dementia, mean brain Al+3 was more than 15 times normal. However, the two groups were not significantly different. Brain Al+3 was also significantly elevated in patients who had either metastatic cancer or hepatic coma. Apparently brain Al+3 can be elevated as a consequence of Al+3 loading, renal failure, and abnormalities of the blood-brain barrier. It is most likely that dialysis dementia has multifactoral causation and is probably not caused by elevated brain content of Al+3 alone.", "contents": "Dementia, renal failure, and brain aluminum. Dialysis dementia is a progressive and usually fatal neurologic syndrome occurring in patients on chronic hemodialysis. These patients may also have elevated levels of aluminum (Al+3) in the cerebral cortex. Possible relations between brain Al+3, increased Al+3 intake, and dementia were evaluated. Studies were done in seven groups of patients and five groups of experimental animals. In both normal dogs and rats and those with renal failure, oral Al+3 loading (Al[OH]3), resulted in significant increases of brain Al+3 (P less than 0.01). In patients with renal failure, who were neither demented nor treated with dialysis, brain Al+3 was more than seven times normal (P less than 0.01), whereas in patients with dialysis dementia, mean brain Al+3 was more than 15 times normal. However, the two groups were not significantly different. Brain Al+3 was also significantly elevated in patients who had either metastatic cancer or hepatic coma. Apparently brain Al+3 can be elevated as a consequence of Al+3 loading, renal failure, and abnormalities of the blood-brain barrier. It is most likely that dialysis dementia has multifactoral causation and is probably not caused by elevated brain content of Al+3 alone.", "PMID": 434672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2266", "title": "Antecedent renal disease and the outcome of pregnancy.", "content": "We assessed the effect of \"healed\" childhood renal disease on subsequent pregnancies by following-up a cohort of 224 children initially hospitalized with kidney disease. The pregnancy experience in this cohort was compared to two \"control\" cohorts comprising 81 female siblings and 191 age-matched female patients hospitalized contemporaneously for respiratory infection. The incidence of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, and pregnancy-associated hypertension was not different among the cohorts; however, the incidence of infants with low birth weights was significantly greater in the renal and respiratory disease groups. Childhood kidney disease followed by impaired renal function (serum creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL) was associated with greater maternal and fetal morbidity. Kidney disease in childhood followed by apparent healing and no functional renal impairment does not have an adverse effect on maternal welfare, although the incidence of infants with low birth weight is apparently increased.", "contents": "Antecedent renal disease and the outcome of pregnancy. We assessed the effect of \"healed\" childhood renal disease on subsequent pregnancies by following-up a cohort of 224 children initially hospitalized with kidney disease. The pregnancy experience in this cohort was compared to two \"control\" cohorts comprising 81 female siblings and 191 age-matched female patients hospitalized contemporaneously for respiratory infection. The incidence of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, and pregnancy-associated hypertension was not different among the cohorts; however, the incidence of infants with low birth weights was significantly greater in the renal and respiratory disease groups. Childhood kidney disease followed by impaired renal function (serum creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL) was associated with greater maternal and fetal morbidity. Kidney disease in childhood followed by apparent healing and no functional renal impairment does not have an adverse effect on maternal welfare, although the incidence of infants with low birth weight is apparently increased.", "PMID": 434673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2267", "title": "The natural history of urate overproduction in sickle cell anemia.", "content": "Serum uric acid and uric acid excretion were studied in 95 patients with sickle cell anemia ranging in age from 17 months to 45 years to ascertain the natural history of urate overproduction. Hyperuricemia was infrequent in children with sickle cell anemia, but was found in 26 of 67 adults (39%). Thirty-six patients studied in a clinical research center had a mean urate clearance of 9.1 +/- 0.8 mL/min. Patients with sickle cell anemia were often normouricemic despite urate overproduction. Normouricemia was maintained by increased urate clearance, which was attributed to increased urate secretion. The hyperuricemic patients had decreased urate clearance with decreased pyrazinamide-suppressible urate clearance. Para-aminohippurate clearance was decreased to 634 mL/min in the hyperuricemic patients with sickle cell anemia compared with 853 mL/min in normouricemic hyperuricosuric subjects with sickle cell anemia. Hyperuricemia occurs only in patients who develop altered renal tubular function with diminished urate clearance secondary to diminished urate secretion.", "contents": "The natural history of urate overproduction in sickle cell anemia. Serum uric acid and uric acid excretion were studied in 95 patients with sickle cell anemia ranging in age from 17 months to 45 years to ascertain the natural history of urate overproduction. Hyperuricemia was infrequent in children with sickle cell anemia, but was found in 26 of 67 adults (39%). Thirty-six patients studied in a clinical research center had a mean urate clearance of 9.1 +/- 0.8 mL/min. Patients with sickle cell anemia were often normouricemic despite urate overproduction. Normouricemia was maintained by increased urate clearance, which was attributed to increased urate secretion. The hyperuricemic patients had decreased urate clearance with decreased pyrazinamide-suppressible urate clearance. Para-aminohippurate clearance was decreased to 634 mL/min in the hyperuricemic patients with sickle cell anemia compared with 853 mL/min in normouricemic hyperuricosuric subjects with sickle cell anemia. Hyperuricemia occurs only in patients who develop altered renal tubular function with diminished urate clearance secondary to diminished urate secretion.", "PMID": 434674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2268", "title": "Persistence of neutrophil hypersegmentation during recovery from megaloblastic granulopoiesis.", "content": "We studied the rate of disappearance of neutrophil hypersegmentation in 23 patients with megaloblastic anemia during therapy with vitamin B12 and folic acid. In 14 patients with uncomplicated megaloblastic anemia, the neutrophil lobe average began to fall towards normal 11.4 +/- 0.3 (SEM) days after treatment was begun and became normal by 13.9 +/- 0.6 days. In nine patients with associated inflammatory disorders, the lobe average returned to normal more rapidly. In six initially neutropenic patients, a five-fold increase in total granulocyte count occurred by the eighth day and a seven-fold increment in the total number of circulating hypersegmented neutrophils. Granulocyte folate concentrations in five folate-deficient patients rose to normal levels within 4 to 7 days of starting therapy. Hypersegmentation thus persists for many days after correction of neutropenia and restoration of normal granulocyte folate levels have occurred. We conclude that cobalamin and folate are needed at two different steps in granulopoiesis.", "contents": "Persistence of neutrophil hypersegmentation during recovery from megaloblastic granulopoiesis. We studied the rate of disappearance of neutrophil hypersegmentation in 23 patients with megaloblastic anemia during therapy with vitamin B12 and folic acid. In 14 patients with uncomplicated megaloblastic anemia, the neutrophil lobe average began to fall towards normal 11.4 +/- 0.3 (SEM) days after treatment was begun and became normal by 13.9 +/- 0.6 days. In nine patients with associated inflammatory disorders, the lobe average returned to normal more rapidly. In six initially neutropenic patients, a five-fold increase in total granulocyte count occurred by the eighth day and a seven-fold increment in the total number of circulating hypersegmented neutrophils. Granulocyte folate concentrations in five folate-deficient patients rose to normal levels within 4 to 7 days of starting therapy. Hypersegmentation thus persists for many days after correction of neutropenia and restoration of normal granulocyte folate levels have occurred. We conclude that cobalamin and folate are needed at two different steps in granulopoiesis.", "PMID": 434675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2269", "title": "Prolonged disease-free survival in Hodgkin's disease with MOPP reinduction after first relapse.", "content": "Thirty-two patients with Hodgkin's disease who relapsed after a first complete remission induced by nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MOPP) were retreated with MOPP chemotherapy. Nineteen patients achieved a second complete remission. Median duration of the second complete remission was 21 months. The likelihood of achieving a second complete response could be predicted by the duration of the first response. Fourteen of 15 patients whose first complete remission was longer than 12 months achieved a second complete response in contrast to five of 17 patients whose initial complete remission lasted less than 12 months (P less than 0.001). Median survival of all patients in this study who were re-treated with MOPP was longer than 4 years after their first relapse. We conclude that patients with Hodgkin's disease who relapse after a first complete remission induced by MOPP are not necessarily resistant to further MOPP therapy and can achieve long-term survival with MOPP reinduction.", "contents": "Prolonged disease-free survival in Hodgkin's disease with MOPP reinduction after first relapse. Thirty-two patients with Hodgkin's disease who relapsed after a first complete remission induced by nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MOPP) were retreated with MOPP chemotherapy. Nineteen patients achieved a second complete remission. Median duration of the second complete remission was 21 months. The likelihood of achieving a second complete response could be predicted by the duration of the first response. Fourteen of 15 patients whose first complete remission was longer than 12 months achieved a second complete response in contrast to five of 17 patients whose initial complete remission lasted less than 12 months (P less than 0.001). Median survival of all patients in this study who were re-treated with MOPP was longer than 4 years after their first relapse. We conclude that patients with Hodgkin's disease who relapse after a first complete remission induced by MOPP are not necessarily resistant to further MOPP therapy and can achieve long-term survival with MOPP reinduction.", "PMID": 434676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2270", "title": "Primary pulmonary hypertension treated with oral phentolamine.", "content": "A patient with symptomatic primary pulmonary artery hypertension underwent therapeutic trials with parenteral and oral phentolamine. Before drug therapy, he manifested marked increases in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary arteriolar resistance during exercise. This hypertensive response to exercise was significantly attenuated by parenteral phentolamine. He also manifested sustained hemodynamic improvement with the same degree of attenuation of exercise-induced increases in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary arteriolar resistance 7 months after initiation of therapy with oral phentolamine. Twenty months after initiation of therapy, the patient continues to enjoy symptomatic improvement with a marked increase in exercise tolerance.", "contents": "Primary pulmonary hypertension treated with oral phentolamine. A patient with symptomatic primary pulmonary artery hypertension underwent therapeutic trials with parenteral and oral phentolamine. Before drug therapy, he manifested marked increases in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary arteriolar resistance during exercise. This hypertensive response to exercise was significantly attenuated by parenteral phentolamine. He also manifested sustained hemodynamic improvement with the same degree of attenuation of exercise-induced increases in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary arteriolar resistance 7 months after initiation of therapy with oral phentolamine. Twenty months after initiation of therapy, the patient continues to enjoy symptomatic improvement with a marked increase in exercise tolerance.", "PMID": 434677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2271", "title": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation with the peritoneovenous shunt.", "content": "Coagulation data were collected before and after peritoneovenous shunting for intractable ascites in 19 shunting procedures. After insertion of the shunts, changes consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation developed in all cases in which good flow of ascitic fluid was obtained. In cases with temporary shunt function, the coagulation variables suggestive of disseminated intravascular coagulation returned toward normal when the flow of ascitic fluid ceased. A fall in the level of fibrinogen degradation products indicated that the shunt had clotted. Bleeding attributable to disseminated intravascular coagulation alone was uncommon. Clotting of the shunts was frequent. The use of heparin improved some of the coagulation variables but did not prevent shunt clotting or clinical bleeding. We conclude that the peritoneovenous shunt induces a moderate disseminated intravascular coagulation and that measurement of fibrinogen degradation products is useful in assessing shunt function.", "contents": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation with the peritoneovenous shunt. Coagulation data were collected before and after peritoneovenous shunting for intractable ascites in 19 shunting procedures. After insertion of the shunts, changes consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation developed in all cases in which good flow of ascitic fluid was obtained. In cases with temporary shunt function, the coagulation variables suggestive of disseminated intravascular coagulation returned toward normal when the flow of ascitic fluid ceased. A fall in the level of fibrinogen degradation products indicated that the shunt had clotted. Bleeding attributable to disseminated intravascular coagulation alone was uncommon. Clotting of the shunts was frequent. The use of heparin improved some of the coagulation variables but did not prevent shunt clotting or clinical bleeding. We conclude that the peritoneovenous shunt induces a moderate disseminated intravascular coagulation and that measurement of fibrinogen degradation products is useful in assessing shunt function.", "PMID": 434678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2272", "title": "Bone biopsy to diagnose hyperoxaluria in patients with renal failure.", "content": "Primary hyperoxaluria is a rare congenital disorder characterized by large quantities of urinary oxalate with resultant nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis and by deposits of calcium oxalate in other organs. Renal failure occurs early in life. Reports of unsuccessful renal transplantation attempts in this disorder underscore the need for antemortem diagnosis. Percutaneous bone biopsy is a relatively new procedure that is easily done at bedside, safe, and of potentially high yield in the demonstration of tissue oxalate. Three cases presented here show the characteristic histologic picture seen in this disease. In one case, the diagnosis was established by bone biopsy.", "contents": "Bone biopsy to diagnose hyperoxaluria in patients with renal failure. Primary hyperoxaluria is a rare congenital disorder characterized by large quantities of urinary oxalate with resultant nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis and by deposits of calcium oxalate in other organs. Renal failure occurs early in life. Reports of unsuccessful renal transplantation attempts in this disorder underscore the need for antemortem diagnosis. Percutaneous bone biopsy is a relatively new procedure that is easily done at bedside, safe, and of potentially high yield in the demonstration of tissue oxalate. Three cases presented here show the characteristic histologic picture seen in this disease. In one case, the diagnosis was established by bone biopsy.", "PMID": 434679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2273", "title": "Solid tumors in multiple myeloma.", "content": "The frequency of solid tumors was evaluated in 628 consecutive patients with multiple myeloma who had been treated with various melphalan-prednisone combinations. Among those patients who lived at least 2 months, the incidence and diversity of second tumors were similar to those in normal persons of the same age and duration at risk. The diagnosis was usually made within 2 years after the start of chemotherapy for the myeloma. Long-term melphalan therapy did not seem to contribute to the pathogenesis of second solid tumors in patients with multiple myeloma.", "contents": "Solid tumors in multiple myeloma. The frequency of solid tumors was evaluated in 628 consecutive patients with multiple myeloma who had been treated with various melphalan-prednisone combinations. Among those patients who lived at least 2 months, the incidence and diversity of second tumors were similar to those in normal persons of the same age and duration at risk. The diagnosis was usually made within 2 years after the start of chemotherapy for the myeloma. Long-term melphalan therapy did not seem to contribute to the pathogenesis of second solid tumors in patients with multiple myeloma.", "PMID": 434680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2274", "title": "Indomethacin-induced prostaglandin inhibition with hyperkalemia. A reversible cause of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism.", "content": "Hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism was diagnosed in a young woman with glomerulonephritis who was receiving indomethacin therapy. Despite only mildly abnormal renal function, serum K+ was elevated to 6.2 meq/L, and plasma renin activity (0.12 ng/mL h) and aldosterone (4.4 ng/dL) failed to respond to the combined stimuli of furosemide and posture. Urinary prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was suppressed (70 ng/24 h). When indomethacin was withdrawn, significant kaliuresis occurred, accompanied by normalization of serum K+ and PGE2 and a supranormal rebound in renin and aldosterone levels. Challenge with indomethacin resulted in antikaliuresis and resuppression of PGE2, renin, and aldosterone. This case study documents for the first time that indomethacin can cause the syndrome of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism, probably by inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis.", "contents": "Indomethacin-induced prostaglandin inhibition with hyperkalemia. A reversible cause of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism. Hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism was diagnosed in a young woman with glomerulonephritis who was receiving indomethacin therapy. Despite only mildly abnormal renal function, serum K+ was elevated to 6.2 meq/L, and plasma renin activity (0.12 ng/mL h) and aldosterone (4.4 ng/dL) failed to respond to the combined stimuli of furosemide and posture. Urinary prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was suppressed (70 ng/24 h). When indomethacin was withdrawn, significant kaliuresis occurred, accompanied by normalization of serum K+ and PGE2 and a supranormal rebound in renin and aldosterone levels. Challenge with indomethacin resulted in antikaliuresis and resuppression of PGE2, renin, and aldosterone. This case study documents for the first time that indomethacin can cause the syndrome of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism, probably by inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis.", "PMID": 434681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2275", "title": "Single or combination therapy of staphylococcal endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers.", "content": "Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest cause of acute endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers. In-vitro and in-vivo animal studies have found increased killing of organisms with the combination of a beta-lactam antibiotic and an aminoglycoside. These findings have created a controversy about the use of such combination therapy. We randomly treated 25 episodes of S. aureus endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers with either single or combination antibiotic regimens. Mean days to defervescence were similar in both groups: 6.3 d (SEM, 1.49 d) for the single drug group and 6.6 d (SEM, 1.02 d) for the group treated in combination with an aminoglycoside. There were no bacteriologic failures or relapses in either group. No patients needed valvular surgery, and the mortality rate was zero. Thus, it appears that single drug therapy with an appropriate beta-lactam antibiotic is adequate and appropriate in intravenous drug abusers with S. aureus endocarditis.", "contents": "Single or combination therapy of staphylococcal endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers. Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest cause of acute endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers. In-vitro and in-vivo animal studies have found increased killing of organisms with the combination of a beta-lactam antibiotic and an aminoglycoside. These findings have created a controversy about the use of such combination therapy. We randomly treated 25 episodes of S. aureus endocarditis in intravenous drug abusers with either single or combination antibiotic regimens. Mean days to defervescence were similar in both groups: 6.3 d (SEM, 1.49 d) for the single drug group and 6.6 d (SEM, 1.02 d) for the group treated in combination with an aminoglycoside. There were no bacteriologic failures or relapses in either group. No patients needed valvular surgery, and the mortality rate was zero. Thus, it appears that single drug therapy with an appropriate beta-lactam antibiotic is adequate and appropriate in intravenous drug abusers with S. aureus endocarditis.", "PMID": 434682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2276", "title": "The use of thrombolytic agents: choice of patient, drug administration, laboratory monitoring.", "content": "A proper choice of patient is critical in assuring both a satisfactory degree of lysis of the thrombus or embolus and a clinical course uncomplicated by serious hemorrhage. The best patients to treat are those who are seriously and acutely ill but without anatomic lesions that may bleed excessively. Thrombolytic agents can be administered by standard courses of therapy, and the monitoring of treatment with laboratory tests has been simplified and is concerned primarily with the documentation of a \"lytic state.\"", "contents": "The use of thrombolytic agents: choice of patient, drug administration, laboratory monitoring. A proper choice of patient is critical in assuring both a satisfactory degree of lysis of the thrombus or embolus and a clinical course uncomplicated by serious hemorrhage. The best patients to treat are those who are seriously and acutely ill but without anatomic lesions that may bleed excessively. Thrombolytic agents can be administered by standard courses of therapy, and the monitoring of treatment with laboratory tests has been simplified and is concerned primarily with the documentation of a \"lytic state.\"", "PMID": 434689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2277", "title": "Management of gout.", "content": "The diagnosis of gout depends on showing urate crystals in synovial effusions or, with less certainty, recognizing a characteristic clinical presentation. The management of gout has four phases: control of inflammation, diagnostic evaluation, education of the patient, and treatment for the hyperuricemia. Sound logical principles guide each aspect. Careful attention to these four phases of management should lead to highly satisfactory control of the syndrome of gout.", "contents": "Management of gout. The diagnosis of gout depends on showing urate crystals in synovial effusions or, with less certainty, recognizing a characteristic clinical presentation. The management of gout has four phases: control of inflammation, diagnostic evaluation, education of the patient, and treatment for the hyperuricemia. Sound logical principles guide each aspect. Careful attention to these four phases of management should lead to highly satisfactory control of the syndrome of gout.", "PMID": 434690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2278", "title": "[Characteristics and complications of mediastinal brochogenic cysts. A report on five cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Five observations of mediastinal brochogenic cysts are used to illustrate the diagnostic and/or therapeutic difficulties encountered in cases with an ectopic topography or complications. In two cases, one of which was clearly located in the posterior mediastinum and associated with a false erosive appearance of the nearby vertebral body, it was possible to establish the degree of ectopic displacement of the bronchogenic cysts, and to comprehend the pre-operative diagnostic difficulties and nosological problems associated with these sequestrations. As far as complications are concerned, one observation was able to confirm that a sudden volume increase doesn't always correspond to a septic process, and that rapid secondary reduction in volume is not always accompanied by fistulation. Intracystic suppurations differ in appearance according to their location. In the subcarinal region they can cause a fistula, as in the case reported. In other regions, in this case the left lateral tracheal area, suppuration is enclosed, but it can be associated with suppurative lesions of the adjacent lung. The operative difficulties, partial cystectomy in one case and associated lobectomy in the other, are further evidence for the need for systematic excision of all bronchogenic cysts as soon as they are diagnosed and before complications occur.", "contents": "[Characteristics and complications of mediastinal brochogenic cysts. A report on five cases (author's transl)]. Five observations of mediastinal brochogenic cysts are used to illustrate the diagnostic and/or therapeutic difficulties encountered in cases with an ectopic topography or complications. In two cases, one of which was clearly located in the posterior mediastinum and associated with a false erosive appearance of the nearby vertebral body, it was possible to establish the degree of ectopic displacement of the bronchogenic cysts, and to comprehend the pre-operative diagnostic difficulties and nosological problems associated with these sequestrations. As far as complications are concerned, one observation was able to confirm that a sudden volume increase doesn't always correspond to a septic process, and that rapid secondary reduction in volume is not always accompanied by fistulation. Intracystic suppurations differ in appearance according to their location. In the subcarinal region they can cause a fistula, as in the case reported. In other regions, in this case the left lateral tracheal area, suppuration is enclosed, but it can be associated with suppurative lesions of the adjacent lung. The operative difficulties, partial cystectomy in one case and associated lobectomy in the other, are further evidence for the need for systematic excision of all bronchogenic cysts as soon as they are diagnosed and before complications occur.", "PMID": 434711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2279", "title": "[Pseudotumoral rheumatoid coxitis (author's transl)].", "content": "Two cases of rheumatoid coxitis of the macrogeodic type are reported. In one case, there was a very large anfractuous cavity in the socket and head, complicated by a pathological fracture of the socket, which raised the suspicion of a malignant tumor. The authors review the characteristics of these macrogeodic forms of rheumatoid arthritis, about forty cases having been reported in the published literature.", "contents": "[Pseudotumoral rheumatoid coxitis (author's transl)]. Two cases of rheumatoid coxitis of the macrogeodic type are reported. In one case, there was a very large anfractuous cavity in the socket and head, complicated by a pathological fracture of the socket, which raised the suspicion of a malignant tumor. The authors review the characteristics of these macrogeodic forms of rheumatoid arthritis, about forty cases having been reported in the published literature.", "PMID": 434712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2280", "title": "[Abnormalities of fibrin formation in benign viral hepatitis (author's transl)].", "content": "Abnormalities of fibrin formation were studied in 42 young adult patients with benign viral hepatitis. It was observed that there was a constant increase in thrombin time and reptilase time, evoking an abnormality of the second stage of fibrin formation, or the aggregation of fibrin monomers. This abnormality is not associated with the presence of inhibitors in the patients' serums, and is maximum at an alkaline pH. The hypothesis of an abnormality of the fibrinogen molecule, a dysfibrinogenemia, is the most likely cause, and this has to be confirmed by biochemical and immunochemical studies.", "contents": "[Abnormalities of fibrin formation in benign viral hepatitis (author's transl)]. Abnormalities of fibrin formation were studied in 42 young adult patients with benign viral hepatitis. It was observed that there was a constant increase in thrombin time and reptilase time, evoking an abnormality of the second stage of fibrin formation, or the aggregation of fibrin monomers. This abnormality is not associated with the presence of inhibitors in the patients' serums, and is maximum at an alkaline pH. The hypothesis of an abnormality of the fibrinogen molecule, a dysfibrinogenemia, is the most likely cause, and this has to be confirmed by biochemical and immunochemical studies.", "PMID": 434713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2281", "title": "[Symptomatology in 162 patients with spasmophilia (chronic idiopathic or constitutional tetany). A statistical analysis using a computer (author's transl)].", "content": "A computer was used for a statistical analysis of the results of treatment in 162 patients (130 women and 32 men with an average age of 29 years), with chronic idiopathic tetany. Symptoms leading to diagnosis were mainly feelings of ill-health (27.2 %), motor disorders (19.7 %), and sensory problems (19.1 %). The onset of acute attacks is related, more especially, to psychogenic factors. The frequency of the various clinical manifestations, and their symptomatic grouping were analyzed. The clinical profile is similar in both sexes apart from 7 of the 89 items: lipothymia, abnormal feelings of warmth, pseudo-contraction of the larynx, abnormalities of the exoskeleton, and digestive disorders are more frequent in women, while precordalgia is more often present in men. Factorial analysis of correspondence between 38 variables reveals a very large dispersion of the variables, as the first three factors, which are the most significant, supply only 30% of the total information. Furthermore, very few variables share significant relationships in each factor. In spite of the amount of information collected, this dispersion of the symptomatology does not permit the definition of one or more profile-types of spasmophilia.", "contents": "[Symptomatology in 162 patients with spasmophilia (chronic idiopathic or constitutional tetany). A statistical analysis using a computer (author's transl)]. A computer was used for a statistical analysis of the results of treatment in 162 patients (130 women and 32 men with an average age of 29 years), with chronic idiopathic tetany. Symptoms leading to diagnosis were mainly feelings of ill-health (27.2 %), motor disorders (19.7 %), and sensory problems (19.1 %). The onset of acute attacks is related, more especially, to psychogenic factors. The frequency of the various clinical manifestations, and their symptomatic grouping were analyzed. The clinical profile is similar in both sexes apart from 7 of the 89 items: lipothymia, abnormal feelings of warmth, pseudo-contraction of the larynx, abnormalities of the exoskeleton, and digestive disorders are more frequent in women, while precordalgia is more often present in men. Factorial analysis of correspondence between 38 variables reveals a very large dispersion of the variables, as the first three factors, which are the most significant, supply only 30% of the total information. Furthermore, very few variables share significant relationships in each factor. In spite of the amount of information collected, this dispersion of the symptomatology does not permit the definition of one or more profile-types of spasmophilia.", "PMID": 434714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2282", "title": "[Thrombosis of the portal and superior mesenteric veins in a patient with a congenital and familial deficiency in antithrombin III (author's transl)].", "content": "Thrombosis of the visceral veins is an extremely rare condition in cases of congenital and hereditary deficiency of antithrombin III, associated with recurring venous thorbosis of the limbs. The authors report such a case in a man of 40 years of age, who had this deficiency, associated with thrombosis of the portal and superior mesenteric veins and a portal cavernoma. They stress the frequent association of recurring peripheral vein thrombosis, portal vein thrombosis in adults, and thrombosis of the mesenteric vein, and the importance of systematic measurements of antithrombin III levels in these pathological conditions.", "contents": "[Thrombosis of the portal and superior mesenteric veins in a patient with a congenital and familial deficiency in antithrombin III (author's transl)]. Thrombosis of the visceral veins is an extremely rare condition in cases of congenital and hereditary deficiency of antithrombin III, associated with recurring venous thorbosis of the limbs. The authors report such a case in a man of 40 years of age, who had this deficiency, associated with thrombosis of the portal and superior mesenteric veins and a portal cavernoma. They stress the frequent association of recurring peripheral vein thrombosis, portal vein thrombosis in adults, and thrombosis of the mesenteric vein, and the importance of systematic measurements of antithrombin III levels in these pathological conditions.", "PMID": 434715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2283", "title": "[Sarcoma of the right superior pulmonary vein: physiopathological study of the progressive stenosis in a lobar vein (author's transl)].", "content": "A part from the interest aroused by the exceptional nature of this case of sarcoma of the right superior pulmonary vein, it enabled definition of the angiographic appearances of the affection of the vein. Physiopathological examinations, including vascular redistribution, development of a systemic collateral circulation, and the reflux of hematosed blood into the pulmonary trunk, were able to establish the diagnosis in vivo.", "contents": "[Sarcoma of the right superior pulmonary vein: physiopathological study of the progressive stenosis in a lobar vein (author's transl)]. A part from the interest aroused by the exceptional nature of this case of sarcoma of the right superior pulmonary vein, it enabled definition of the angiographic appearances of the affection of the vein. Physiopathological examinations, including vascular redistribution, development of a systemic collateral circulation, and the reflux of hematosed blood into the pulmonary trunk, were able to establish the diagnosis in vivo.", "PMID": 434716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2284", "title": "[Epidemiology of asbestos-induced mesotheliomas in inhabitants of the Saint-Etienne area. Apropos of 35 cases].", "content": "The 35 cases reviewed in this study provided evidence that apart from occupational dust hazards there could be a risk of asbestos dust contamination which is not related to working conditions but occurs through urban and industrial pollution.", "contents": "[Epidemiology of asbestos-induced mesotheliomas in inhabitants of the Saint-Etienne area. Apropos of 35 cases]. The 35 cases reviewed in this study provided evidence that apart from occupational dust hazards there could be a risk of asbestos dust contamination which is not related to working conditions but occurs through urban and industrial pollution.", "PMID": 434717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2285", "title": "[Scapular and vertebral osteopathies during acute myoclonic bismuth encephalopathies. Apropos of 8 cases].", "content": "Among 59 cases of bismuth encephalopathy, 8 patients were observed to have osteo-articular lesions of the shoulders and dorsal vertebral. These included osteonecrosis of the head of the humerus, which has been reported previously, uni- or bi-lateral fractures of the upper end of the humerus, and vertebral fractures. Severe and repeated myoclonic spasms appear to be capable of causing fractures; microscopic fractures in the spongy bone could explain the osteonecrotic images observed.", "contents": "[Scapular and vertebral osteopathies during acute myoclonic bismuth encephalopathies. Apropos of 8 cases]. Among 59 cases of bismuth encephalopathy, 8 patients were observed to have osteo-articular lesions of the shoulders and dorsal vertebral. These included osteonecrosis of the head of the humerus, which has been reported previously, uni- or bi-lateral fractures of the upper end of the humerus, and vertebral fractures. Severe and repeated myoclonic spasms appear to be capable of causing fractures; microscopic fractures in the spongy bone could explain the osteonecrotic images observed.", "PMID": 434718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2286", "title": "[Circulatory and respiratory effects of aspiration and reinfusion of ascites in cirrhosis. Apropos of 14 ascitic attacks treated by this method].", "content": "Aspiration and replacement of ascites in 14 patients with cirrhosis was carried out using a Rhodiascit (Rh\u00f4ne-Poulenc) apparatus. Hemodynamic studies were used to evaluate the effects of this therapy on circulatory and respiratory parameters. Results showed that the hemodynamic tolerance of the treatment, which produces a slow increase in blood volume, was excellent as there was an increase in the cardiac index without raising the pressure under which replacement was made. Futhermore, no adverse effects on blood respiratory functions were noted in these patients who had blood hypoxia before treatment, but the removal of ascitic fluid produced no improvement in arterial gasometric parameters which is contrary to what one would expect.", "contents": "[Circulatory and respiratory effects of aspiration and reinfusion of ascites in cirrhosis. Apropos of 14 ascitic attacks treated by this method]. Aspiration and replacement of ascites in 14 patients with cirrhosis was carried out using a Rhodiascit (Rh\u00f4ne-Poulenc) apparatus. Hemodynamic studies were used to evaluate the effects of this therapy on circulatory and respiratory parameters. Results showed that the hemodynamic tolerance of the treatment, which produces a slow increase in blood volume, was excellent as there was an increase in the cardiac index without raising the pressure under which replacement was made. Futhermore, no adverse effects on blood respiratory functions were noted in these patients who had blood hypoxia before treatment, but the removal of ascitic fluid produced no improvement in arterial gasometric parameters which is contrary to what one would expect.", "PMID": 434719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2287", "title": "[Chronic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia (author's transl)].", "content": "The diagnosis of chronic gastritis can be made from the macroscopic lesions seen on endoscopy, and the severity of the changes noted in the mucosa after biopsy under direct vision. Gastric intubation can also be used to confirm the pathological results. If the atrophied mucosa shows highly differentiated diffuse intestinal metaplasia, the examinations should be repeated at regular intervals, as they could herald the onset of malignant changes. The authors discovered 312 cases of intestinal metaplasia in 4 920 patients who had been gastroscoped in the Digestive Endoscopy Center of Fran\u00e7ois-Moutier. A total of 157 of them, were noted to have very highly differentiated diffuse lesions, and 54 of these cases had at least yearly repeat gastroscopies. A diagnosis of intrinsic cancer was made in four patients, and this was confirmed by taking serial sections of the specimens removed.", "contents": "[Chronic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia (author's transl)]. The diagnosis of chronic gastritis can be made from the macroscopic lesions seen on endoscopy, and the severity of the changes noted in the mucosa after biopsy under direct vision. Gastric intubation can also be used to confirm the pathological results. If the atrophied mucosa shows highly differentiated diffuse intestinal metaplasia, the examinations should be repeated at regular intervals, as they could herald the onset of malignant changes. The authors discovered 312 cases of intestinal metaplasia in 4 920 patients who had been gastroscoped in the Digestive Endoscopy Center of Fran\u00e7ois-Moutier. A total of 157 of them, were noted to have very highly differentiated diffuse lesions, and 54 of these cases had at least yearly repeat gastroscopies. A diagnosis of intrinsic cancer was made in four patients, and this was confirmed by taking serial sections of the specimens removed.", "PMID": 434720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2288", "title": "[Paravertebral hematopoietic pseudotumor during Paget's disease (author's transl)].", "content": "Extramedullary hematopoiesis is usually secondary to a severe and prolonged reduction in medullary functions, but can be the rare consequence of an extrusion of tissue formed of weakened or fractured bone. The hematopoietic nature of this pseudotumor can be confirmed histologically or, as in this case of Paget's disease, by Indium scintigraphy which can define the specific locations of the hematopoietic marrow.", "contents": "[Paravertebral hematopoietic pseudotumor during Paget's disease (author's transl)]. Extramedullary hematopoiesis is usually secondary to a severe and prolonged reduction in medullary functions, but can be the rare consequence of an extrusion of tissue formed of weakened or fractured bone. The hematopoietic nature of this pseudotumor can be confirmed histologically or, as in this case of Paget's disease, by Indium scintigraphy which can define the specific locations of the hematopoietic marrow.", "PMID": 434721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2289", "title": "[Physiopathology of osteoporosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Osteoporosis is the result of the progressive loss of bone substance which occurs during a lifetime. Its histomorphological characteristics have been well-defined and it appears to be a single entity more particularly related to the general problem of cellular senescence. The rate at which bone is lost can be influenced by many events or general factors, known or unknown, which are capable of accelerating or slowing down its progression. The period when the fracture threshold is passed appears to depend on a bone mass which is weak at the end of the growth period, followed by genetic, mechanical--related more specifically to insufficient muscular activity--, hormonal-hypo-oestrogenemia-factors, and pathological episodes of more rapid demineralization (immobilization, corticotherapy) which become more irreversible with advancing age.", "contents": "[Physiopathology of osteoporosis (author's transl)]. Osteoporosis is the result of the progressive loss of bone substance which occurs during a lifetime. Its histomorphological characteristics have been well-defined and it appears to be a single entity more particularly related to the general problem of cellular senescence. The rate at which bone is lost can be influenced by many events or general factors, known or unknown, which are capable of accelerating or slowing down its progression. The period when the fracture threshold is passed appears to depend on a bone mass which is weak at the end of the growth period, followed by genetic, mechanical--related more specifically to insufficient muscular activity--, hormonal-hypo-oestrogenemia-factors, and pathological episodes of more rapid demineralization (immobilization, corticotherapy) which become more irreversible with advancing age.", "PMID": 434723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2290", "title": "[Diagnosis of primary osteoporosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The diagnosis of osteoporosis is usually based on the presence of hypertransparent radiological images of the spinal column with vertebral collapse, when other relatively rare causes (mainly myeloma) have been excluded. One recognized, other etiological factors have to be discarded, especially cortisone therapy, before diagnosing primary osteoporosis in patients over 55 years of age in whom it is more frequently present in women (post-menopausal osteoporosis). Various indices of the amount of bone present in the limbs and pelvis can be used to assess the proportion lost with age, but these give only incomplete information on the degree of vertebral osteoporosis.", "contents": "[Diagnosis of primary osteoporosis (author's transl)]. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is usually based on the presence of hypertransparent radiological images of the spinal column with vertebral collapse, when other relatively rare causes (mainly myeloma) have been excluded. One recognized, other etiological factors have to be discarded, especially cortisone therapy, before diagnosing primary osteoporosis in patients over 55 years of age in whom it is more frequently present in women (post-menopausal osteoporosis). Various indices of the amount of bone present in the limbs and pelvis can be used to assess the proportion lost with age, but these give only incomplete information on the degree of vertebral osteoporosis.", "PMID": 434724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2291", "title": "[Loss of bone with advancing age (author's transl)].", "content": "Loss of bone with advancing age can be evaluated by different methods: tomography, measuring the metacarpal corticomedullary index by monochromatic photonic bone absorptiometry, or by the bone-calcium mass as measured by neutronic activation in vivo. Analogous results are given by all these methods: there is reduction in the total bone mass after fifty years or so in women, and after about sixty years in men. The authors discuss the physiopathology of the osteopenia with increasing age, and more particularly the role of oestrogen-deprivation after the menopause.", "contents": "[Loss of bone with advancing age (author's transl)]. Loss of bone with advancing age can be evaluated by different methods: tomography, measuring the metacarpal corticomedullary index by monochromatic photonic bone absorptiometry, or by the bone-calcium mass as measured by neutronic activation in vivo. Analogous results are given by all these methods: there is reduction in the total bone mass after fifty years or so in women, and after about sixty years in men. The authors discuss the physiopathology of the osteopenia with increasing age, and more particularly the role of oestrogen-deprivation after the menopause.", "PMID": 434725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2292", "title": "[Oestrogen therapy of osteoporosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Twenty women with physiological (11) or post-operative (9) lack of oestrogen and progesterone developed progressively painful decalcifying osteosis. Improvement was obtained (after eliminating all contra-indications) by treatment with an oestrogen (17-b\u00eata oestradiol-14 times) associated with a progesterone (14 times ) and increased calcium and phosphates (11 times). Clinical improvement was still present after a period varying from 6 to 36 months, with disappearance of the pain symptoms in 7 cases, and very great improvement in 9 cases. After 6 months of treatment there was also a significant reduction in the biological signs of bone resorption (blood phosphorus levels, calcium-creatinine ratio in morning urine specimens taken after fasting, total calcium in a 24-hour urine specimen). The improvement noted, both clinically and biologically, confirms the effect of oestrogens in reducing bone resorption, underlines their preventive and also curative action, and makes them suitable for use in decalcifying osteosis due to hormone lack, after eliminating all contra-indications and under strict regular supervision (breasts and endometrium).", "contents": "[Oestrogen therapy of osteoporosis (author's transl)]. Twenty women with physiological (11) or post-operative (9) lack of oestrogen and progesterone developed progressively painful decalcifying osteosis. Improvement was obtained (after eliminating all contra-indications) by treatment with an oestrogen (17-b\u00eata oestradiol-14 times) associated with a progesterone (14 times ) and increased calcium and phosphates (11 times). Clinical improvement was still present after a period varying from 6 to 36 months, with disappearance of the pain symptoms in 7 cases, and very great improvement in 9 cases. After 6 months of treatment there was also a significant reduction in the biological signs of bone resorption (blood phosphorus levels, calcium-creatinine ratio in morning urine specimens taken after fasting, total calcium in a 24-hour urine specimen). The improvement noted, both clinically and biologically, confirms the effect of oestrogens in reducing bone resorption, underlines their preventive and also curative action, and makes them suitable for use in decalcifying osteosis due to hormone lack, after eliminating all contra-indications and under strict regular supervision (breasts and endometrium).", "PMID": 434726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2293", "title": "[The treatment of osteoporosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Treatment for osteoporosis cannot yet be prescribed in a perfectly rational manner, as the total picture of the pathogenesis of this disease remains uncertain. Furthermore, lack of significant criteria makes it difficult to evaluate the different therapeutic methods proposed, and none of them appears to be entirely satisfactory. By acting methodically, however, one can obtain good relief of pain, quiescent osteoporotic activity over long periods, and bone remineralization. At the present time, preference has to be given to standard medications such as calcium, phosphorus, and anabolic proteins which are nearly always given in association. Calcium inhibits osteolysis by slowing down parathyroid secretion. Phosphorus accelerates calcium fixation in bone and appears to stimulate the formation of osteoblasts. Anabolic compounds protect the bone-forming framework and assist the deposition of mineral salts in the bones. The prescription of vitamin D is of value when there is a deficiency. Among recent medications which have been tried, only calcitonin appears to be of some practical value, by assisting inhibition of certain flare-ups and lytic episodes of the osteoporosis when associated with standard therapy.", "contents": "[The treatment of osteoporosis (author's transl)]. Treatment for osteoporosis cannot yet be prescribed in a perfectly rational manner, as the total picture of the pathogenesis of this disease remains uncertain. Furthermore, lack of significant criteria makes it difficult to evaluate the different therapeutic methods proposed, and none of them appears to be entirely satisfactory. By acting methodically, however, one can obtain good relief of pain, quiescent osteoporotic activity over long periods, and bone remineralization. At the present time, preference has to be given to standard medications such as calcium, phosphorus, and anabolic proteins which are nearly always given in association. Calcium inhibits osteolysis by slowing down parathyroid secretion. Phosphorus accelerates calcium fixation in bone and appears to stimulate the formation of osteoblasts. Anabolic compounds protect the bone-forming framework and assist the deposition of mineral salts in the bones. The prescription of vitamin D is of value when there is a deficiency. Among recent medications which have been tried, only calcitonin appears to be of some practical value, by assisting inhibition of certain flare-ups and lytic episodes of the osteoporosis when associated with standard therapy.", "PMID": 434727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2294", "title": "[Idiopathic arteriovenous fistula of the renal peduncle (author's transl)].", "content": "Idiopathic arteriovenous fistulae in the renal peduncle are rare. A case was discovered during clinical examination, and was confirmed by total and selective arteriography. A vertebral and dise infection of L3-L4 was also present and blood cultures were positive for enterococcus. This fistula had a high blood-flow rate but it has to be stressed that it was well-tolerated by the cardiovascular system. It was also exceptional in that conservative therapy was possible in this case, which is the eighth reported up to the present time.", "contents": "[Idiopathic arteriovenous fistula of the renal peduncle (author's transl)]. Idiopathic arteriovenous fistulae in the renal peduncle are rare. A case was discovered during clinical examination, and was confirmed by total and selective arteriography. A vertebral and dise infection of L3-L4 was also present and blood cultures were positive for enterococcus. This fistula had a high blood-flow rate but it has to be stressed that it was well-tolerated by the cardiovascular system. It was also exceptional in that conservative therapy was possible in this case, which is the eighth reported up to the present time.", "PMID": 434728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2295", "title": "[Systemic allergic vasculopathy after naproxen (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report a case of hypersensitivity angiitis presenting with cutaneous, muscular, articular, and renal signs. They suggest a possible etiological mechanism for such disorders: a circulating immune-complex disease, and criticize the often improper interpretation of the results of lymphoblast transformation tests. Hypersensitivity angiitis, \"ground base disease\", requires investigation for possible underlying immunity abnormalities or neoplasms.", "contents": "[Systemic allergic vasculopathy after naproxen (author's transl)]. The authors report a case of hypersensitivity angiitis presenting with cutaneous, muscular, articular, and renal signs. They suggest a possible etiological mechanism for such disorders: a circulating immune-complex disease, and criticize the often improper interpretation of the results of lymphoblast transformation tests. Hypersensitivity angiitis, \"ground base disease\", requires investigation for possible underlying immunity abnormalities or neoplasms.", "PMID": 434729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2296", "title": "[The association of a myeloma and Paget's disease (author's transl)].", "content": "The coexistence of a myeloma and Paget's disease in the same patient is only rarely reported in the published literature. The frequency of such an association was studied when reviewing 3 cases observed by the authors: an IgG myeloma discovered following a spasmodic paraplegia in a patient with Paget's disease; a patient who was found to have a myeloma, a polynuclear neutrophil leukemia, and Paget's disease; and an IgG myeloma in a patient with probable localized Paget's disease. The incidence of the association myeloma-Paget's disease is much lower than that of sarcomatous degeneration. It should be determined precisely, however, as our future conception of the reciprocal relationship between the two diseases is greatly dependent on this information. Furthermore, the very few cases reported, and their lack of homogenicity, are the reasons why most authors feel that the association of myeloma and Paget's disease as pure coincidence. Many new cases, however, have been recently reported. The problem of the significance of the association of Paget's disease and macroglobulinemia or other monoclonal gammapathies has still to be solved.", "contents": "[The association of a myeloma and Paget's disease (author's transl)]. The coexistence of a myeloma and Paget's disease in the same patient is only rarely reported in the published literature. The frequency of such an association was studied when reviewing 3 cases observed by the authors: an IgG myeloma discovered following a spasmodic paraplegia in a patient with Paget's disease; a patient who was found to have a myeloma, a polynuclear neutrophil leukemia, and Paget's disease; and an IgG myeloma in a patient with probable localized Paget's disease. The incidence of the association myeloma-Paget's disease is much lower than that of sarcomatous degeneration. It should be determined precisely, however, as our future conception of the reciprocal relationship between the two diseases is greatly dependent on this information. Furthermore, the very few cases reported, and their lack of homogenicity, are the reasons why most authors feel that the association of myeloma and Paget's disease as pure coincidence. Many new cases, however, have been recently reported. The problem of the significance of the association of Paget's disease and macroglobulinemia or other monoclonal gammapathies has still to be solved.", "PMID": 434730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2297", "title": "[Cerebral manifestations of sarcoidosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Sarcoidosis lesions in the brain are relatively rare and can remain latent, or become evident in various forms: meningitic, encephalitic, neuro-endocrinian, vascular, or tumoral. A case is reported of an Antilles patient aged 35 years, in whom the diagnosis was made by examination of an operation specimen, following the discovery of an apparently isolated intracranial hypertension.", "contents": "[Cerebral manifestations of sarcoidosis (author's transl)]. Sarcoidosis lesions in the brain are relatively rare and can remain latent, or become evident in various forms: meningitic, encephalitic, neuro-endocrinian, vascular, or tumoral. A case is reported of an Antilles patient aged 35 years, in whom the diagnosis was made by examination of an operation specimen, following the discovery of an apparently isolated intracranial hypertension.", "PMID": 434731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2298", "title": "[The provoked-hyperglycemia test. Follow-up after two years of 94 cases with doubtful results (author's transl)].", "content": "A retrospective study of 94 patients, who had had doubtful results in the oral provoked-hyperglycemia test, was made after an average period of 23 months. It was found that 26 patients were diabetic, 34 were normal and 34 were still doubtful. The factors which influence the evolution of these cases are the sex, a family history of diabetes (before 60 years of age), and the return to normal weight of obese patients.", "contents": "[The provoked-hyperglycemia test. Follow-up after two years of 94 cases with doubtful results (author's transl)]. A retrospective study of 94 patients, who had had doubtful results in the oral provoked-hyperglycemia test, was made after an average period of 23 months. It was found that 26 patients were diabetic, 34 were normal and 34 were still doubtful. The factors which influence the evolution of these cases are the sex, a family history of diabetes (before 60 years of age), and the return to normal weight of obese patients.", "PMID": 434732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2299", "title": "Frontal sinus mucocele.", "content": "Although not uncommon, and certainly not rare, frontal sinus mucocele was seen in 4 cases by the authors. Since one of the cases was rather unusual, we were prompted to evaluate the subject and prepare this manuscript. Gradual onset of unilateral proptosis should make one suspicious of a mucocele involving the paranasal sinuses, the frontal and ethmoid being the 2 most common locations. Diplopia, due to limited ocular motility on upward gaze, along with proptosis and epiphora are frequently the presenting symptoms which, in one particular case, paradoxically improved at first with topical anti-inflammatory therapy . A team approach (ophthalmologist, radiologist, otorhinolaryngologist, and neurosurgeon) are essential for an accurate diagnosis and therapeutic approach to this problem. The use of a precut template from the Caldwell projection is a very useful device to outline the contours of the frontal sinus during surgery. The not-so-frequent use of abdominal fat to fill the frontal sinus cavity is presented with no apparent postoperative fat necrosis. A 5-year follow-up has shown the patient to be free of recurrences.", "contents": "Frontal sinus mucocele. Although not uncommon, and certainly not rare, frontal sinus mucocele was seen in 4 cases by the authors. Since one of the cases was rather unusual, we were prompted to evaluate the subject and prepare this manuscript. Gradual onset of unilateral proptosis should make one suspicious of a mucocele involving the paranasal sinuses, the frontal and ethmoid being the 2 most common locations. Diplopia, due to limited ocular motility on upward gaze, along with proptosis and epiphora are frequently the presenting symptoms which, in one particular case, paradoxically improved at first with topical anti-inflammatory therapy . A team approach (ophthalmologist, radiologist, otorhinolaryngologist, and neurosurgeon) are essential for an accurate diagnosis and therapeutic approach to this problem. The use of a precut template from the Caldwell projection is a very useful device to outline the contours of the frontal sinus during surgery. The not-so-frequent use of abdominal fat to fill the frontal sinus cavity is presented with no apparent postoperative fat necrosis. A 5-year follow-up has shown the patient to be free of recurrences.", "PMID": 434734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2300", "title": "Malignant melanoma of choroid in a case of nevus of Ota.", "content": "A white woman with unilateral nevus of Ota presented with visual loss and an intraocular mass resembling a choroidal melanoma. Indirect ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, ultrasonography, and radioactive phosphorus uptake corroborated the clinical impression and surgery was advised. Following enucleation, the specimen was examined with light microscopy, which revealed a mixed cell type malignant melanoma of the choroid. Electron microscopy disclosed the presence of premelanosomes in the episclera, indicating that the episcleral pigmentation is a result of melanocytic evolution. This paper represents the tenth report in the literature of choroidal melanoma occurring in a patient with nevus of Ota, and the first electron-microscopic study of an eye with this association of lesions.", "contents": "Malignant melanoma of choroid in a case of nevus of Ota. A white woman with unilateral nevus of Ota presented with visual loss and an intraocular mass resembling a choroidal melanoma. Indirect ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, ultrasonography, and radioactive phosphorus uptake corroborated the clinical impression and surgery was advised. Following enucleation, the specimen was examined with light microscopy, which revealed a mixed cell type malignant melanoma of the choroid. Electron microscopy disclosed the presence of premelanosomes in the episclera, indicating that the episcleral pigmentation is a result of melanocytic evolution. This paper represents the tenth report in the literature of choroidal melanoma occurring in a patient with nevus of Ota, and the first electron-microscopic study of an eye with this association of lesions.", "PMID": 434736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2301", "title": "Prognosis for the evolution of Ophthalmology: Part II.", "content": "This paper represents an application of modern forecasting methods to prognosis in ophthalmology. Using these methods the author considers possible changes in patterns of ocular pathology in the next 20 to 25 years. He also indicates the probable evolution of such methods of investigation as biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, electrophysiology, and automatic diagnosis. In the field of ophthalmosurgery, the author explores the idea of automation of eye surgery and extended use of micromanipulators in surgery. He predicts the autoplasty of the anterior segment and the transplant of the whole eye.", "contents": "Prognosis for the evolution of Ophthalmology: Part II. This paper represents an application of modern forecasting methods to prognosis in ophthalmology. Using these methods the author considers possible changes in patterns of ocular pathology in the next 20 to 25 years. He also indicates the probable evolution of such methods of investigation as biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, electrophysiology, and automatic diagnosis. In the field of ophthalmosurgery, the author explores the idea of automation of eye surgery and extended use of micromanipulators in surgery. He predicts the autoplasty of the anterior segment and the transplant of the whole eye.", "PMID": 434737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2302", "title": "Biopsy-negative cranial arteritis with complete oculomotor nerve palsy.", "content": "Cranial arteritis (CA) presenting as sudden blindness is well documented, and early recognition of this entity in an elderly patient with visual loss or diplopia is of critical importance. This entity presents a difficult diagnostic problem when temporal artery biopsy is negative, as in our case, or when the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is normal. The present report details an unusual patient with \"occult temporal arteritis\" who sustained abrupt monocular visual loss and subsequent ipsilateral ophthalmoplegia involving all functions of the oculomotor nerve. Despite negative biopsies of each temporal artery, other probable etiologies of the symptom complex were excluded, and the diagnosis of cranial arteritis is warranted. The patient is unique in that the oculomotor palsy is complete and permanent. This report emphasizes cranial arteritis masquerading as an intracranial aneurysm.", "contents": "Biopsy-negative cranial arteritis with complete oculomotor nerve palsy. Cranial arteritis (CA) presenting as sudden blindness is well documented, and early recognition of this entity in an elderly patient with visual loss or diplopia is of critical importance. This entity presents a difficult diagnostic problem when temporal artery biopsy is negative, as in our case, or when the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is normal. The present report details an unusual patient with \"occult temporal arteritis\" who sustained abrupt monocular visual loss and subsequent ipsilateral ophthalmoplegia involving all functions of the oculomotor nerve. Despite negative biopsies of each temporal artery, other probable etiologies of the symptom complex were excluded, and the diagnosis of cranial arteritis is warranted. The patient is unique in that the oculomotor palsy is complete and permanent. This report emphasizes cranial arteritis masquerading as an intracranial aneurysm.", "PMID": 434739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2303", "title": "Use of computerized axial tomography (CAT scan) in evaluating therapy of orbital pseudotumor.", "content": "Two patients with orbital pseudotumor, demonstrated by computerized axial tomography (CAT scan), are presented. This radiological technique was further used to demonstrate the complete resolution (Case 1) and marked regression (Case 2) of the orbital masses after steroid therapy. CAT scan characteristics of orbital pseudotumor were discussed and contrasted with the findings in thyroid ophthalmopathy. It is our recommendation that patients with CAT scan and clinical characteristics of orbital pseudotumor should be treated with systemic steroids and resolution of the inflammatory lesion should be corroborated by a repeat scan in atypical cases. Orbital surgery and other invasive studies should be used in those patients in whom there is no objective improvement in the disease process.", "contents": "Use of computerized axial tomography (CAT scan) in evaluating therapy of orbital pseudotumor. Two patients with orbital pseudotumor, demonstrated by computerized axial tomography (CAT scan), are presented. This radiological technique was further used to demonstrate the complete resolution (Case 1) and marked regression (Case 2) of the orbital masses after steroid therapy. CAT scan characteristics of orbital pseudotumor were discussed and contrasted with the findings in thyroid ophthalmopathy. It is our recommendation that patients with CAT scan and clinical characteristics of orbital pseudotumor should be treated with systemic steroids and resolution of the inflammatory lesion should be corroborated by a repeat scan in atypical cases. Orbital surgery and other invasive studies should be used in those patients in whom there is no objective improvement in the disease process.", "PMID": 434740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2304", "title": "Water drinking provocative test.", "content": "Water drinking provocative test was carried out in 28 chronic simple glaucoma and 17 borderline cases of chronic simple glaucoma. These tests were carried out twice on the same patients with an empty stomach and after taking breakfast at an interval of 15 days. It was observed that there was no significant difference in the outcome of the results even when this test was carried out with a full stomach.", "contents": "Water drinking provocative test. Water drinking provocative test was carried out in 28 chronic simple glaucoma and 17 borderline cases of chronic simple glaucoma. These tests were carried out twice on the same patients with an empty stomach and after taking breakfast at an interval of 15 days. It was observed that there was no significant difference in the outcome of the results even when this test was carried out with a full stomach.", "PMID": 434741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2305", "title": "The fluorescein appearance test for lacrimal obstruction.", "content": "The fluorescein appearance test has been developed for the evaluation of the patency of the lacrimal excretory system. This objective test is simple, painless, physiologic, and reliable. The only materials required are 2% fluorescein, ultraviolet light, and a tongue blade. A 2% fluorescein solution is instilled in the conjunctival cul-de-sac after which the posterior oropharynx and nostrilis are examined with ultraviolet light. Over 90% of 92 eyes from 66 normal subjects gave positive results within 30 minutes and 100% gave positive results within 60 minutes. Slow appearance times can be anticipated because there appears to be a correlation between Schirmer test values and the time required for a positive fluorescein appearance test. The test proved clinically useful in evaluating patients with epiphora and in making the diagnosis of several cases of lacrimal obstruction verified by nuclear dacryocystography.", "contents": "The fluorescein appearance test for lacrimal obstruction. The fluorescein appearance test has been developed for the evaluation of the patency of the lacrimal excretory system. This objective test is simple, painless, physiologic, and reliable. The only materials required are 2% fluorescein, ultraviolet light, and a tongue blade. A 2% fluorescein solution is instilled in the conjunctival cul-de-sac after which the posterior oropharynx and nostrilis are examined with ultraviolet light. Over 90% of 92 eyes from 66 normal subjects gave positive results within 30 minutes and 100% gave positive results within 60 minutes. Slow appearance times can be anticipated because there appears to be a correlation between Schirmer test values and the time required for a positive fluorescein appearance test. The test proved clinically useful in evaluating patients with epiphora and in making the diagnosis of several cases of lacrimal obstruction verified by nuclear dacryocystography.", "PMID": 434742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2306", "title": "Supernumerary lacrimal canaliculi.", "content": "Supernumerary extopic canaliculi in a 12-year-old white male patient are presented. Their external openings (puncti) were located on the lateral surface of the nose, 1 cm from the inner canthus, and were reaching the lacrimal sac directly. The anomaly was surgically corrected and 2 years after the operation the patient is free of symptoms.", "contents": "Supernumerary lacrimal canaliculi. Supernumerary extopic canaliculi in a 12-year-old white male patient are presented. Their external openings (puncti) were located on the lateral surface of the nose, 1 cm from the inner canthus, and were reaching the lacrimal sac directly. The anomaly was surgically corrected and 2 years after the operation the patient is free of symptoms.", "PMID": 434744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2307", "title": "Evaluation of an improved suture for cataract surgery.", "content": "An improved synthetic absorbable suture for ophthalmic surgery, 8-0 Dexon \"S\" polyglycolic acid, was evaluated in 25 cataract extractions and, in 5 cases, compared with 8-0 Vicryl polyglactin sutures. Dexon \"S\" sutures caused less tissue drag than Vicryl sutures; Vicryl was more easily knotted. With respect to handling, knotting, tissue drag, absorption, and postoperative complications, the improved Dexon suture was found to be well suited for use in cataract surgery.", "contents": "Evaluation of an improved suture for cataract surgery. An improved synthetic absorbable suture for ophthalmic surgery, 8-0 Dexon \"S\" polyglycolic acid, was evaluated in 25 cataract extractions and, in 5 cases, compared with 8-0 Vicryl polyglactin sutures. Dexon \"S\" sutures caused less tissue drag than Vicryl sutures; Vicryl was more easily knotted. With respect to handling, knotting, tissue drag, absorption, and postoperative complications, the improved Dexon suture was found to be well suited for use in cataract surgery.", "PMID": 434745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2308", "title": "Factors influencing prognosis in indirect traumatic rupture of the globe.", "content": "Fifty indirect traumatic ruptures of the globe were reviewed in order to isolate factors important in determining the visual outcome: (1) The presence of a hyphema at the initial examination is a very bad prognostic sign. (2) A small rupture carries a better prognosis than a large rupture (arbitrary dividing line, 9 mm). (3) Cryotherapy or diatherapy used at the wound edge at the time of surgical repair improves prognosis.", "contents": "Factors influencing prognosis in indirect traumatic rupture of the globe. Fifty indirect traumatic ruptures of the globe were reviewed in order to isolate factors important in determining the visual outcome: (1) The presence of a hyphema at the initial examination is a very bad prognostic sign. (2) A small rupture carries a better prognosis than a large rupture (arbitrary dividing line, 9 mm). (3) Cryotherapy or diatherapy used at the wound edge at the time of surgical repair improves prognosis.", "PMID": 434746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2309", "title": "Investigative approaches to the problem of pancreatic cancer.", "content": "A prospective study of 134 patients suspected of having pancreatic cancer is reported. Ultrasonography and duodenal drainage studies are the best initial investigations. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with cytological examination is the test most likely to provide a definitive diagnosis. Arteriography is essential before laparotomy to delineate anomalies in the foregut vasculature. Pancreatic oncofetal antigen is the only tumour marker that is useful in diagnosis and in monitoring therapy.", "contents": "Investigative approaches to the problem of pancreatic cancer. A prospective study of 134 patients suspected of having pancreatic cancer is reported. Ultrasonography and duodenal drainage studies are the best initial investigations. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with cytological examination is the test most likely to provide a definitive diagnosis. Arteriography is essential before laparotomy to delineate anomalies in the foregut vasculature. Pancreatic oncofetal antigen is the only tumour marker that is useful in diagnosis and in monitoring therapy.", "PMID": 434747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2310", "title": "The radiological assessment of ectopic lower third molars.", "content": "Experiments using observers ranging in experience from undergraduates to consultants showed that the orthopantomograph can be used satisfactorily to predict the time taken to remove those ectopic lower third molars capable of being put into Winter's classification. When used for this purpose this radiograph compared well with the lateral oblique view of the mandible. There were differences with the intraoral view, but it could not be certain which was superior. The value of the orthopantomogram in predicting impaired postoperative labial sensation was tested. It became apparent that there were cases in which the nerve was clearly at risk and others in which it was clearly not at risk. Variations in the anatomy of the canal and the quality of its image could give rise to doubt, some of which could be resolved by taking intraoral views. An unsuccessful attempt using analysis of multiple regression was made to select and quantify those features of the radiograph important for predicting the time taken for removal of the teeth. A simple points scoring method was evolved which agreed with current practice and was capable of being used effectively by undergraduates, some of whom had made inadequate assessments hitherto.", "contents": "The radiological assessment of ectopic lower third molars. Experiments using observers ranging in experience from undergraduates to consultants showed that the orthopantomograph can be used satisfactorily to predict the time taken to remove those ectopic lower third molars capable of being put into Winter's classification. When used for this purpose this radiograph compared well with the lateral oblique view of the mandible. There were differences with the intraoral view, but it could not be certain which was superior. The value of the orthopantomogram in predicting impaired postoperative labial sensation was tested. It became apparent that there were cases in which the nerve was clearly at risk and others in which it was clearly not at risk. Variations in the anatomy of the canal and the quality of its image could give rise to doubt, some of which could be resolved by taking intraoral views. An unsuccessful attempt using analysis of multiple regression was made to select and quantify those features of the radiograph important for predicting the time taken for removal of the teeth. A simple points scoring method was evolved which agreed with current practice and was capable of being used effectively by undergraduates, some of whom had made inadequate assessments hitherto.", "PMID": 434748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2311", "title": "The lymphatics of the prostate gland and their role in the spread of prostatic carcinoma.", "content": "The results of research are reported which provide conclusive evidence of the presence of functioning intraprostatic lymphatics. The hypothesis that the prostate is an 'immunologically privileged site' devoid of demonstrable intraprostatic lymphatics is no longer valid. Intraglandular metastases via the intraprostatic lymphatics might be responsible for the multifocal presentation in prostatic carcinoma. Lymphatic spread is a primary event in a significant number of cases. The conventional separation of modes of spread as haematogenous and lymphatic seems artificial and physiologically unsound, as tumour cells tend to recycle from one system to another. The application of clinical prostatolymphography as a diagnostic tool in N-staging and as a potential therapeutic adjunct, using a suitable radioisotope, in the management of prostatic carcinoma has to be assessed.", "contents": "The lymphatics of the prostate gland and their role in the spread of prostatic carcinoma. The results of research are reported which provide conclusive evidence of the presence of functioning intraprostatic lymphatics. The hypothesis that the prostate is an 'immunologically privileged site' devoid of demonstrable intraprostatic lymphatics is no longer valid. Intraglandular metastases via the intraprostatic lymphatics might be responsible for the multifocal presentation in prostatic carcinoma. Lymphatic spread is a primary event in a significant number of cases. The conventional separation of modes of spread as haematogenous and lymphatic seems artificial and physiologically unsound, as tumour cells tend to recycle from one system to another. The application of clinical prostatolymphography as a diagnostic tool in N-staging and as a potential therapeutic adjunct, using a suitable radioisotope, in the management of prostatic carcinoma has to be assessed.", "PMID": 434749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2312", "title": "Inaugural Sidney Werner Lecture. The surgical treatment of thyroid disease in modern perspective.", "content": "It is timely to review the place of surgery in the treatment of thyroid disease when for some years endocrinologists, pharmacologists, and radiotherapists have made most of the running. This account falls naturally into three parts, simple, malignant, and toxic goitre.", "contents": "Inaugural Sidney Werner Lecture. The surgical treatment of thyroid disease in modern perspective. It is timely to review the place of surgery in the treatment of thyroid disease when for some years endocrinologists, pharmacologists, and radiotherapists have made most of the running. This account falls naturally into three parts, simple, malignant, and toxic goitre.", "PMID": 434750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2313", "title": "A simple clinical approach to quantifying losses from the extracellular and plasma compartments.", "content": "It is possible to estimate the category and volume of lost liquid in patients who have become acutely depleted of body fluids by measuring the haematocrit and plasma protein concentration in venous blood samples. Three recent examples of different categories of loss are presented: plasma loss in pancreatitis, extracellular fluid (saline) loss in paralytic ileus, and mixed plasma and extracellular fluid loss in peritonitis complicating acute appendicitis. Goood clinical results were achieved by infusion of appropriate volumes of either plasma or saline so as to restore the haematocrit and plasma protein concentration to their presumptive basal values.", "contents": "A simple clinical approach to quantifying losses from the extracellular and plasma compartments. It is possible to estimate the category and volume of lost liquid in patients who have become acutely depleted of body fluids by measuring the haematocrit and plasma protein concentration in venous blood samples. Three recent examples of different categories of loss are presented: plasma loss in pancreatitis, extracellular fluid (saline) loss in paralytic ileus, and mixed plasma and extracellular fluid loss in peritonitis complicating acute appendicitis. Goood clinical results were achieved by infusion of appropriate volumes of either plasma or saline so as to restore the haematocrit and plasma protein concentration to their presumptive basal values.", "PMID": 434751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2314", "title": "Extended deep femoral angioplasty and lumbar sympathectomy as a limb salvage procedure.", "content": "Limb salvage in 27 limbs (26 patients) using the combined operations of extended deep femoral angioplasty and lumbar sympathectomy is described. A successful result was obtained in 14 cases (52%) at 6 months falling to 12 (45%) at 16 months. Prediction of outcome and postoperative progress was monitored by the measurement of the leg: arm pressure ratio using the Doppler ultrasound apparatus. No patient with a preoperative ratio of less than 0.3 had a successful result. It is proposed that lumbar sympathectomy is a logical adjunct to surgery in these patients in order to enhance the development of the collateral circulation.", "contents": "Extended deep femoral angioplasty and lumbar sympathectomy as a limb salvage procedure. Limb salvage in 27 limbs (26 patients) using the combined operations of extended deep femoral angioplasty and lumbar sympathectomy is described. A successful result was obtained in 14 cases (52%) at 6 months falling to 12 (45%) at 16 months. Prediction of outcome and postoperative progress was monitored by the measurement of the leg: arm pressure ratio using the Doppler ultrasound apparatus. No patient with a preoperative ratio of less than 0.3 had a successful result. It is proposed that lumbar sympathectomy is a logical adjunct to surgery in these patients in order to enhance the development of the collateral circulation.", "PMID": 434752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2315", "title": "A biological survey of a Cambridge suburb: assortative marriage for IQ and personality traits.", "content": "An account is given of a study, carried out in a Cambridge suburb, which measured the similarity in IQ and some personality traits between spouses. In both sexes mean IQ scores tended to diminish from social class I to V. Lower IQ scores were associated with higher levels of extraversion, neuroticism and inconsistency. Assortative marriage was found for IQ components, Total IQ, extraversion-introversion and inconsistency scores. Both geographical and social stratification were shown to affect the degree of assortative marriage.", "contents": "A biological survey of a Cambridge suburb: assortative marriage for IQ and personality traits. An account is given of a study, carried out in a Cambridge suburb, which measured the similarity in IQ and some personality traits between spouses. In both sexes mean IQ scores tended to diminish from social class I to V. Lower IQ scores were associated with higher levels of extraversion, neuroticism and inconsistency. Assortative marriage was found for IQ components, Total IQ, extraversion-introversion and inconsistency scores. Both geographical and social stratification were shown to affect the degree of assortative marriage.", "PMID": 434762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2316", "title": "Matrimonial distance, inbreeding coefficient and population size: Dhangar data.", "content": "Data on the distance between the birthplaces of spouses (matrimonial distance) were collected from 2,260 married individuals belonging to 21 endogamous castes of the Dhangar (shepherd) cast-cluster of Maharashtra, India. The general form of the distribution of matrimonial distances is one which is extremely positively skewed and leptokurtic. The percentage of intra-village marriages generally decreases from the southern areas of Maharashtra to the northern areas of the state, as does the inbreeding coefficient. This situation is in conformity with the socio-cultural norms regulating matrimonial choice in south and north India. An attempt has been made to relate the degree of inbreeding to the mean matrimonial distance and population size. The mean matrimonial distance is more useful in predicting the degree of inbreeding than population size.", "contents": "Matrimonial distance, inbreeding coefficient and population size: Dhangar data. Data on the distance between the birthplaces of spouses (matrimonial distance) were collected from 2,260 married individuals belonging to 21 endogamous castes of the Dhangar (shepherd) cast-cluster of Maharashtra, India. The general form of the distribution of matrimonial distances is one which is extremely positively skewed and leptokurtic. The percentage of intra-village marriages generally decreases from the southern areas of Maharashtra to the northern areas of the state, as does the inbreeding coefficient. This situation is in conformity with the socio-cultural norms regulating matrimonial choice in south and north India. An attempt has been made to relate the degree of inbreeding to the mean matrimonial distance and population size. The mean matrimonial distance is more useful in predicting the degree of inbreeding than population size.", "PMID": 434763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2317", "title": "Biological variations associated with change in lifestyle among the pastoral and nomadic tribes of East Africa.", "content": "The values of a number of anthropometric, cardiovascular and biochemical variables have been compared between tribal and non-tribal Samburu. Significant differences between the two groups were found for ponderal index, supra-iliac and mid-calf skinfold thicknesses, pulse rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Similar analyses were performed on samples from tribal and non-tribal Maasai; here significant differences were found for ponderal index, height, biceps skinfold thickness, pulse rate and systolic blood pressure. No significant differences were found in serum cholesterol or serum triglyceride for either the Samburu or the Maasai. Greater variability of the skinfold measurements was found in the non-tribal Samburu than in the tribal group; this effect was less marked in the Maasai. A principal component analysis and three discriminant function analyses were performed on the Samburu data. These analyses showed that the most marked difference between the tribal and non-tribal groups was in their blood pressure levels, the non-tribal sample having significantly higher mean values than the tribal members. Possible causes for the observed differences between tribal and non-tribal groups are discussed, and the findings are contrasted with those of an earlier study, in which significant differences in cholesterol but not in blood pressure were found between samples of rural and urban Maasai. This leads to the tentative hypothesis that blood pressure is affected immediately by the change in environment, whereas the effect on cholesterol levels is a longer-term one.", "contents": "Biological variations associated with change in lifestyle among the pastoral and nomadic tribes of East Africa. The values of a number of anthropometric, cardiovascular and biochemical variables have been compared between tribal and non-tribal Samburu. Significant differences between the two groups were found for ponderal index, supra-iliac and mid-calf skinfold thicknesses, pulse rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Similar analyses were performed on samples from tribal and non-tribal Maasai; here significant differences were found for ponderal index, height, biceps skinfold thickness, pulse rate and systolic blood pressure. No significant differences were found in serum cholesterol or serum triglyceride for either the Samburu or the Maasai. Greater variability of the skinfold measurements was found in the non-tribal Samburu than in the tribal group; this effect was less marked in the Maasai. A principal component analysis and three discriminant function analyses were performed on the Samburu data. These analyses showed that the most marked difference between the tribal and non-tribal groups was in their blood pressure levels, the non-tribal sample having significantly higher mean values than the tribal members. Possible causes for the observed differences between tribal and non-tribal groups are discussed, and the findings are contrasted with those of an earlier study, in which significant differences in cholesterol but not in blood pressure were found between samples of rural and urban Maasai. This leads to the tentative hypothesis that blood pressure is affected immediately by the change in environment, whereas the effect on cholesterol levels is a longer-term one.", "PMID": 434764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2318", "title": "Genetic heterogeneity within an electrophoretic phenotype of phosphoglucose isomerase in a Japanese population.", "content": "The thermostability of the five kinds of electrophoretically variant phenotypes of GPI which were found in Japanese in a previous study (Tanis et al. 1977) was examined. The most frequently found variant phenotype, termed GPI 1-4HIR1, observed in 20 individuals could be divided into three distinct classes on the basis of thermostability characteristics. These classes were termed 'stable', 'labile', and 'very labile'. 'Stable' lost approximately 20 and 60% of its original activity after heating 10 and 30 min at 52-5 degrees C, respectively, while normal GPI lost approximately 30 and 70% of its original activity. 'Labile' lost approximately 40 and 80%, and 'very labile' lost approximately 55 and 90% of its original activity under the same heating conditions. Electrophoresis showed that that thermostability was a characteristic of the variant protein molecule but not of the electrophoretically normal molecule. The order of the stability of these three kinds of variants against 5 M urea was the same as that of their thermostability. No difference against inhibition by 6-phosphogluconate was observed among the normal and the variant phosphoglucose isomerases. Family studies confirmed the genetic nature of the thermo- and urea stability differences among the affected individuals.", "contents": "Genetic heterogeneity within an electrophoretic phenotype of phosphoglucose isomerase in a Japanese population. The thermostability of the five kinds of electrophoretically variant phenotypes of GPI which were found in Japanese in a previous study (Tanis et al. 1977) was examined. The most frequently found variant phenotype, termed GPI 1-4HIR1, observed in 20 individuals could be divided into three distinct classes on the basis of thermostability characteristics. These classes were termed 'stable', 'labile', and 'very labile'. 'Stable' lost approximately 20 and 60% of its original activity after heating 10 and 30 min at 52-5 degrees C, respectively, while normal GPI lost approximately 30 and 70% of its original activity. 'Labile' lost approximately 40 and 80%, and 'very labile' lost approximately 55 and 90% of its original activity under the same heating conditions. Electrophoresis showed that that thermostability was a characteristic of the variant protein molecule but not of the electrophoretically normal molecule. The order of the stability of these three kinds of variants against 5 M urea was the same as that of their thermostability. No difference against inhibition by 6-phosphogluconate was observed among the normal and the variant phosphoglucose isomerases. Family studies confirmed the genetic nature of the thermo- and urea stability differences among the affected individuals.", "PMID": 434771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2319", "title": "Intestinal lactase status of adults in Papua New Guinea.", "content": "Fifty hospital patients in Port Moresby (mean age 30 yr) without evidence of malnutrition or gastro-intestinal disease, who came from many parts of Papua New Guinea (P.N.G.), were given 50 g lactose orally after an overnight fast. In 49 blood glucose rise was less than 1.1 mmol 1(-1), indicating hypolactasia. Thirty-three gave a clear history of symptoms, usually diarrhoea, after lactose. Adult hypolactasia approaches 100% in P.N.G. There is no indication that the genetic structure of any part of the population of P,N.G. with regard to lactase has been influenced by genetic drift from peoples with persistence of lactase into adult life (PL).", "contents": "Intestinal lactase status of adults in Papua New Guinea. Fifty hospital patients in Port Moresby (mean age 30 yr) without evidence of malnutrition or gastro-intestinal disease, who came from many parts of Papua New Guinea (P.N.G.), were given 50 g lactose orally after an overnight fast. In 49 blood glucose rise was less than 1.1 mmol 1(-1), indicating hypolactasia. Thirty-three gave a clear history of symptoms, usually diarrhoea, after lactose. Adult hypolactasia approaches 100% in P.N.G. There is no indication that the genetic structure of any part of the population of P,N.G. with regard to lactase has been influenced by genetic drift from peoples with persistence of lactase into adult life (PL).", "PMID": 434766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2320", "title": "Finger ridge-count variability in sub-Saharan Africa.", "content": "Mean finger ridge-count data were obtained, primarily from literature sources, for 31 male and 24 female sub-Saharan African samples. The 10 finger ridge-counts and total ridge-count were used as independent variables in a multiple regression analysis, latitude and longitude serving in turn as the dependent variables. The results show that it is not the magnitude of the ridge-counts themselves that is important, but rather contrasts between groups of digits. The most important geographically patterned variation in ridge-counts consists of contrasts between digits 4 and 5 and digits 2 and 3. South and south-east African populations are characterized by low contrasts, west Africans by high contrasts and, south-west Africans are intermediate. The geographical patterning of the contrast agrees well with known patterns of gene flow into and within the continent as determined by serological genes. Principal components analysis was also carried out to determine whether within-group components corresponding to the geographically relevant between-group variation could be identified. The third, fourth and fifth components drew the same types of contrasts between the groups of digits identified in the multiple regression analysis, but they were relatively unimportant. The geographically important principal components would have been overlooked in a traditional multivariate analysis of finge ridge-counts, since the analysis would have been dominated by pattern size. We conclude that finger ridge-counts are potentially very useful in population studies, but account must be taken of their multicomponent nature.", "contents": "Finger ridge-count variability in sub-Saharan Africa. Mean finger ridge-count data were obtained, primarily from literature sources, for 31 male and 24 female sub-Saharan African samples. The 10 finger ridge-counts and total ridge-count were used as independent variables in a multiple regression analysis, latitude and longitude serving in turn as the dependent variables. The results show that it is not the magnitude of the ridge-counts themselves that is important, but rather contrasts between groups of digits. The most important geographically patterned variation in ridge-counts consists of contrasts between digits 4 and 5 and digits 2 and 3. South and south-east African populations are characterized by low contrasts, west Africans by high contrasts and, south-west Africans are intermediate. The geographical patterning of the contrast agrees well with known patterns of gene flow into and within the continent as determined by serological genes. Principal components analysis was also carried out to determine whether within-group components corresponding to the geographically relevant between-group variation could be identified. The third, fourth and fifth components drew the same types of contrasts between the groups of digits identified in the multiple regression analysis, but they were relatively unimportant. The geographically important principal components would have been overlooked in a traditional multivariate analysis of finge ridge-counts, since the analysis would have been dominated by pattern size. We conclude that finger ridge-counts are potentially very useful in population studies, but account must be taken of their multicomponent nature.", "PMID": 434765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2321", "title": "A comparison of the biochemical properties of the human diaphorase (DIA3) isozymes determined by the common alleles DIA13, DIA23 and DIA33.", "content": "(1) Various buffer systems for the starch gel electrophoresis of human diaphorase isozymes have been explored. Electrophoresis in a Tris/Borate system at pH 8.6 which includes 70 micron NADH in the gel and cathodal electrode buffers, provides good resolution of the six DIA3 phenotypes previously resolved by isoelectric focusing. (2) The variant genes DIA13, DIA23 and DIA33 occur with frequencies of about 0.76, 0.23 and 0.01 respectively in the English population. (3) The isozymes determined by the least common gene, DIA33, are markedly different from the isozymes determined by DIA13 and DIA23 in their relatively low heat stability, high affinity for Blue Sepharose and slow anodal electrophoretic mobility in buffer systems containing borate. The DIA3 1 and DIA3 2 isozymes are similar to one another in these characteristics.", "contents": "A comparison of the biochemical properties of the human diaphorase (DIA3) isozymes determined by the common alleles DIA13, DIA23 and DIA33. (1) Various buffer systems for the starch gel electrophoresis of human diaphorase isozymes have been explored. Electrophoresis in a Tris/Borate system at pH 8.6 which includes 70 micron NADH in the gel and cathodal electrode buffers, provides good resolution of the six DIA3 phenotypes previously resolved by isoelectric focusing. (2) The variant genes DIA13, DIA23 and DIA33 occur with frequencies of about 0.76, 0.23 and 0.01 respectively in the English population. (3) The isozymes determined by the least common gene, DIA33, are markedly different from the isozymes determined by DIA13 and DIA23 in their relatively low heat stability, high affinity for Blue Sepharose and slow anodal electrophoretic mobility in buffer systems containing borate. The DIA3 1 and DIA3 2 isozymes are similar to one another in these characteristics.", "PMID": 434772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2322", "title": "The pattern of facial growth before and during puberty, as shown by French-Canadian girls.", "content": "The results are reported for an analysis of longitudinal sequences of lateral head X-rays of 50 Montreal girls, taken annually between the ages of 6 and 15 years. Mean size changes for distances within the cranial base, the maxilla and the mandible, as well as those outlining the facial polygon, are displayed on a common proportional scale based on mean sizes at 15 years old. Mean growth velocities are displayed on both a chronological age scale and on one relative to the individual age of peak growth velocity in stature. A distinct facial pattern of growth is established, In terms of the proportion of final size achieved during childhood, it is below the cranial pattern, but above the general skeletal one. This facial pattern shows a pubertal peak in growth, but one quantitatively less important than that for stature. The timing of the two peaks is closely aligned, although the evidence favours a slightly later development for the face. The mandibular ramus provided the sole exception to this common facial pattern, though some questions on maxillary growth remain open.", "contents": "The pattern of facial growth before and during puberty, as shown by French-Canadian girls. The results are reported for an analysis of longitudinal sequences of lateral head X-rays of 50 Montreal girls, taken annually between the ages of 6 and 15 years. Mean size changes for distances within the cranial base, the maxilla and the mandible, as well as those outlining the facial polygon, are displayed on a common proportional scale based on mean sizes at 15 years old. Mean growth velocities are displayed on both a chronological age scale and on one relative to the individual age of peak growth velocity in stature. A distinct facial pattern of growth is established, In terms of the proportion of final size achieved during childhood, it is below the cranial pattern, but above the general skeletal one. This facial pattern shows a pubertal peak in growth, but one quantitatively less important than that for stature. The timing of the two peaks is closely aligned, although the evidence favours a slightly later development for the face. The mandibular ramus provided the sole exception to this common facial pattern, though some questions on maxillary growth remain open.", "PMID": 434767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2323", "title": "The genetic determination of fumarase isozymes in human tissues.", "content": "(1) A method for the starch gel electrophoresis of human fumarase has been devised which resolves two groups of isozymes: one group (FHM) is associated with the mitochondria, the other (FHS) is cytosolic. (2) Tissue to tissue variation in the complexity of the isozyme patterns and the examination of red cells fractionated according to their age by density gradient centrifugation suggest that the least anodal isozymes of the FHS group and ofthe FHM group are modified in vivo with the generation of several secondary isozymes. (3) Red cells, which display only FHS isozymes, were screened from 776 European and 100 Nigerian individuals and a single electrophoretic variant (phenotype FH 2-1) was identified in a middle-aged male from England. The same variant was identified in a paternal aunt and the data suggest that the variant repressents heterozygosity for the common (FH1) allele and a rare variant (FH2) allele at an autosomal locus. (4) Fibroblasts and white cells from the FH 2-1 individual showed variation in the FHM and FHS isozymes indicating that the mitochondrial and the soluble forms of fumarase are determined at the same structural locus.", "contents": "The genetic determination of fumarase isozymes in human tissues. (1) A method for the starch gel electrophoresis of human fumarase has been devised which resolves two groups of isozymes: one group (FHM) is associated with the mitochondria, the other (FHS) is cytosolic. (2) Tissue to tissue variation in the complexity of the isozyme patterns and the examination of red cells fractionated according to their age by density gradient centrifugation suggest that the least anodal isozymes of the FHS group and ofthe FHM group are modified in vivo with the generation of several secondary isozymes. (3) Red cells, which display only FHS isozymes, were screened from 776 European and 100 Nigerian individuals and a single electrophoretic variant (phenotype FH 2-1) was identified in a middle-aged male from England. The same variant was identified in a paternal aunt and the data suggest that the variant repressents heterozygosity for the common (FH1) allele and a rare variant (FH2) allele at an autosomal locus. (4) Fibroblasts and white cells from the FH 2-1 individual showed variation in the FHM and FHS isozymes indicating that the mitochondrial and the soluble forms of fumarase are determined at the same structural locus.", "PMID": 434773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2324", "title": "Human Y chromosome variation in normal and abnormal babies and their fathers.", "content": "C-banded chromosome preparations were obtained from cord blood from normal newborns and venous blood from abnormal newborns and the corresponding fathers. There is significant heterogeneity between individuals in euchromatin and especially heterochromatin lengths of the Y chromosome. The average dimensions of the Y of fathers of normal and abnormal babies do not differ. Y chromosomes from cord blood appear more condensed than from venous blood and the consequences are not removed by the use of the Y/F index. Such differences have not been considered in reported apparent variation in the size of the Y chromsome in relation to criminality.", "contents": "Human Y chromosome variation in normal and abnormal babies and their fathers. C-banded chromosome preparations were obtained from cord blood from normal newborns and venous blood from abnormal newborns and the corresponding fathers. There is significant heterogeneity between individuals in euchromatin and especially heterochromatin lengths of the Y chromosome. The average dimensions of the Y of fathers of normal and abnormal babies do not differ. Y chromosomes from cord blood appear more condensed than from venous blood and the consequences are not removed by the use of the Y/F index. Such differences have not been considered in reported apparent variation in the size of the Y chromsome in relation to criminality.", "PMID": 434774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2325", "title": "The genetics of palmar creases. A study in the inheritance of liability estimated from the incidence among relatives.", "content": "Six-hundred and fifty-nine Chinese children and 613 first degree relatives were studied with regard to four variations in the palmar creases: the simian crease, the Sydney line, the radial border termination of the thenar crease, and the distal border termination of the distal crease. With the exception of the Sydney line, these palmar crease variations were found to occur with significantly increased frequency in the parents of the propositi compared with 400 controls, indicating the presence of genetic factors in their embryogenesis. If the polygenic hypothesis is accepted, the very high heritability of liability (100%) to the radial border termination of the thenar crease is a further demonstration of the importance of the genetic contribution. Variations in the palmar creases thus cannot be totally explained away by early flexional folding in the skin of the developing hand.", "contents": "The genetics of palmar creases. A study in the inheritance of liability estimated from the incidence among relatives. Six-hundred and fifty-nine Chinese children and 613 first degree relatives were studied with regard to four variations in the palmar creases: the simian crease, the Sydney line, the radial border termination of the thenar crease, and the distal border termination of the distal crease. With the exception of the Sydney line, these palmar crease variations were found to occur with significantly increased frequency in the parents of the propositi compared with 400 controls, indicating the presence of genetic factors in their embryogenesis. If the polygenic hypothesis is accepted, the very high heritability of liability (100%) to the radial border termination of the thenar crease is a further demonstration of the importance of the genetic contribution. Variations in the palmar creases thus cannot be totally explained away by early flexional folding in the skin of the developing hand.", "PMID": 434775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2326", "title": "Hair colour in the Faroe and Orkney Islands.", "content": "Hair samples from 274 Faroe Islanders (mean age 16.7 years) and 246 Orkney Islanders (mean age 13.5 years) were classified and divided into eight colour categories by matching them to standard samples on the \"Haarfarbentafel nach Fischer-Saller\". Sex differences in the proportions in each category in both the Faroese (144 males, 130 females) and Orcadians (120 males, 126 females) were tested by x(2) and were not significant. A highly significant difference (1% level) was found in the proportions in the eight categories between the total Faroese and Orcadian samples. The Faroese subjects, despite their higher mean age, have a higher proportion of light-haired individuals. Hair of a \"smoky-grey\" tone, clearly unrelated to greying with age, and not represented on the Fischer-Saller scale, is reported and was found to be predominantly a feature of Orcadian males. The results for the Faroe and Orkney Islanders are compared with data for other North Atlantic populations.", "contents": "Hair colour in the Faroe and Orkney Islands. Hair samples from 274 Faroe Islanders (mean age 16.7 years) and 246 Orkney Islanders (mean age 13.5 years) were classified and divided into eight colour categories by matching them to standard samples on the \"Haarfarbentafel nach Fischer-Saller\". Sex differences in the proportions in each category in both the Faroese (144 males, 130 females) and Orcadians (120 males, 126 females) were tested by x(2) and were not significant. A highly significant difference (1% level) was found in the proportions in the eight categories between the total Faroese and Orcadian samples. The Faroese subjects, despite their higher mean age, have a higher proportion of light-haired individuals. Hair of a \"smoky-grey\" tone, clearly unrelated to greying with age, and not represented on the Fischer-Saller scale, is reported and was found to be predominantly a feature of Orcadian males. The results for the Faroe and Orkney Islanders are compared with data for other North Atlantic populations.", "PMID": 434770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2327", "title": "Association of weights of some organs during the prenatal period.", "content": "The change of proportion of organ weights for the liver, intestines, lung, kidney, thymus, heart and spleen were analysed for 33 Japanese fetuses (sexes combined) by multivariate allometry. The thymus showed the highest allometric coefficient, and the spleen the next highest. The intestines, heart, liver, kidney showed medium coefficients, and the lung had the lowest.", "contents": "Association of weights of some organs during the prenatal period. The change of proportion of organ weights for the liver, intestines, lung, kidney, thymus, heart and spleen were analysed for 33 Japanese fetuses (sexes combined) by multivariate allometry. The thymus showed the highest allometric coefficient, and the spleen the next highest. The intestines, heart, liver, kidney showed medium coefficients, and the lung had the lowest.", "PMID": 434769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2328", "title": "Sex differences and bilateral asymmetry in dermatoglyphic pattern elements on the fingertips.", "content": "In the present paper, 539 Polish families and 999 individuals (515 males and 484 females) were analysed to determine whether asymmetry of dermatoglyphic patter elements on the fingertips of ulnar and radial loops in genetically controlled. And we enquire whether the body is bilaterally asymmetrical. We have found the asymmetry between right and left hand fingertips for ulnar and radial loops, for each digit and between the two sexes. The differences between the sexes is small. The bimanual difference in dermatoglyphic pattern elements between hands, right minus left, has been used as a measure of asymmetry. The mean and variance difference for males is not significantly different from the mean and variance for females. An investigation was also made of correlations between relatives for bimanual differences, right minus left. We may conclude from these results that the asymmetry of dermatoglphic pattern elements on fingertips of ulnar and radial loops has little hereditary component. Finally, the results of this work show that the dermatoglyphic pattern elements on fingertips of ulnar and radial loops on each side of the body are inherited.", "contents": "Sex differences and bilateral asymmetry in dermatoglyphic pattern elements on the fingertips. In the present paper, 539 Polish families and 999 individuals (515 males and 484 females) were analysed to determine whether asymmetry of dermatoglyphic patter elements on the fingertips of ulnar and radial loops in genetically controlled. And we enquire whether the body is bilaterally asymmetrical. We have found the asymmetry between right and left hand fingertips for ulnar and radial loops, for each digit and between the two sexes. The differences between the sexes is small. The bimanual difference in dermatoglyphic pattern elements between hands, right minus left, has been used as a measure of asymmetry. The mean and variance difference for males is not significantly different from the mean and variance for females. An investigation was also made of correlations between relatives for bimanual differences, right minus left. We may conclude from these results that the asymmetry of dermatoglphic pattern elements on fingertips of ulnar and radial loops has little hereditary component. Finally, the results of this work show that the dermatoglyphic pattern elements on fingertips of ulnar and radial loops on each side of the body are inherited.", "PMID": 434776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2329", "title": "Gene frequency and fitness change in an age-structured population.", "content": "Fisher's system of reproductive value weighting, whereby each age group is assigned a weight purported to measure its contribution to the ancestry of future generations, was suggested by him as a way of ironing out irregularities in the change of population numbers when the age structure is not in equilibrium. This has been extended to Mendelian populations for two models. In Model I, the reproductive value of each genotype is computed from a table of age-specific survival and reproduction rates, and the genic values are computed by averaging these genotypic values. The total reproductive value of an allele and of the population always increase at a rate equal to the reproductive value-weighted average fitness regardless of age structure. This has the disadvantage that the total reproductive value is not equal to the census numbers, when age-stability has been reached. In Model II, this difficulty is surmounted, but the formula is no longer exact. The reproductive value of an allele for a specific age x is measured from the average death and reproductive rates of individuals of age x carrying that allele. An expression is given for the rate of change of reproductive value of an allele or of the population. In many circumstances this changes nearly uniformly, regardless of irregularities of age structure, and goes over to the census numbers as age stability is approached. The special difficulties in populations with separate sexes are discussed and a formula for rate of change of mean reproductive value, analogous to Fisher's Fundamental Theorem of Natural Selection, is given.", "contents": "Gene frequency and fitness change in an age-structured population. Fisher's system of reproductive value weighting, whereby each age group is assigned a weight purported to measure its contribution to the ancestry of future generations, was suggested by him as a way of ironing out irregularities in the change of population numbers when the age structure is not in equilibrium. This has been extended to Mendelian populations for two models. In Model I, the reproductive value of each genotype is computed from a table of age-specific survival and reproduction rates, and the genic values are computed by averaging these genotypic values. The total reproductive value of an allele and of the population always increase at a rate equal to the reproductive value-weighted average fitness regardless of age structure. This has the disadvantage that the total reproductive value is not equal to the census numbers, when age-stability has been reached. In Model II, this difficulty is surmounted, but the formula is no longer exact. The reproductive value of an allele for a specific age x is measured from the average death and reproductive rates of individuals of age x carrying that allele. An expression is given for the rate of change of reproductive value of an allele or of the population. In many circumstances this changes nearly uniformly, regardless of irregularities of age structure, and goes over to the census numbers as age stability is approached. The special difficulties in populations with separate sexes are discussed and a formula for rate of change of mean reproductive value, analogous to Fisher's Fundamental Theorem of Natural Selection, is given.", "PMID": 434778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2330", "title": "The use of multiple thresholds and segregation analysis in analyzing the phenotypic heterogeneity of multifactorial traits.", "content": "(1) Three models based on multifactorial inheritance are introduced to account for phenotypic heterogeneities. These models are used to determine whether subforms of a triat are: (a) different degrees of the same process, (b) non-familial environmental variants of the same process, and (c) independently transmitted processes. (2) The parameters of each model consist of two population prevalences and either one, two, or three correlation coefficients which reflect the three hypotheses given above. The models are formulated so that a likelihood ratio test may be performed to discriminate between them. (3) The following types of analyses are described: (a) analysis of prevalence data with separate population prevalence estimates, (b) analysis of prevalence data with the proband a parent with specified spouse, (c) analysis of prevalence data with the proband an offspring with specified parents, and (d) the full segregation distribution of families using Complex Segregation Analysis. (4) When compared with the Analysis of Prevalences, Complex Segregation Analysis has the following advantages: (a) the number of degrees of freedom for parameter estimates is greater and separate estimates of the population prevalences are not necessary, (b) standard errors of the parameters are smaller, and (c) the power to discriminate models is increased. (5) Phenotypic heterogeneities such as age of onset, severity, and sex effect can be more completely understood by the methods of analyses described above. The nosology of familial disorders can also be clarified, and environments relevant to the transmission of the trait can be detected. This approach is particularly suitable for the analysis for behavioural traits since it does not require the assumption that environmental effects common to relatives be ignored. (6) Finally, our experience indicates that incorporating both prevalence and pedigree data into a single analysis decreases the time required to perform the analysis.", "contents": "The use of multiple thresholds and segregation analysis in analyzing the phenotypic heterogeneity of multifactorial traits. (1) Three models based on multifactorial inheritance are introduced to account for phenotypic heterogeneities. These models are used to determine whether subforms of a triat are: (a) different degrees of the same process, (b) non-familial environmental variants of the same process, and (c) independently transmitted processes. (2) The parameters of each model consist of two population prevalences and either one, two, or three correlation coefficients which reflect the three hypotheses given above. The models are formulated so that a likelihood ratio test may be performed to discriminate between them. (3) The following types of analyses are described: (a) analysis of prevalence data with separate population prevalence estimates, (b) analysis of prevalence data with the proband a parent with specified spouse, (c) analysis of prevalence data with the proband an offspring with specified parents, and (d) the full segregation distribution of families using Complex Segregation Analysis. (4) When compared with the Analysis of Prevalences, Complex Segregation Analysis has the following advantages: (a) the number of degrees of freedom for parameter estimates is greater and separate estimates of the population prevalences are not necessary, (b) standard errors of the parameters are smaller, and (c) the power to discriminate models is increased. (5) Phenotypic heterogeneities such as age of onset, severity, and sex effect can be more completely understood by the methods of analyses described above. The nosology of familial disorders can also be clarified, and environments relevant to the transmission of the trait can be detected. This approach is particularly suitable for the analysis for behavioural traits since it does not require the assumption that environmental effects common to relatives be ignored. (6) Finally, our experience indicates that incorporating both prevalence and pedigree data into a single analysis decreases the time required to perform the analysis.", "PMID": 434779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2331", "title": "The effects of demographic transition on the opportunity for selection: changes during the last century in Italy.", "content": "The index of opportunity for selection proposed by Crow has been calculated for the Italian population during the last century. The evolution of its two components, the pre-reproductive mortality and the variance in fertility, has been also analysed and compared with similar data for the United States. The results clearly show the relevance of socio-economic changes to the evolution of selective patterns in our species; in particular the relative incidence of mortality and fertility to selection intensity: the total index has in fact been reduced by 75% during the last century, the relative amount due to fertility increasing from 57 to 89%. The probable different relevance of genetic factors in the two components has also been discussed.", "contents": "The effects of demographic transition on the opportunity for selection: changes during the last century in Italy. The index of opportunity for selection proposed by Crow has been calculated for the Italian population during the last century. The evolution of its two components, the pre-reproductive mortality and the variance in fertility, has been also analysed and compared with similar data for the United States. The results clearly show the relevance of socio-economic changes to the evolution of selective patterns in our species; in particular the relative incidence of mortality and fertility to selection intensity: the total index has in fact been reduced by 75% during the last century, the relative amount due to fertility increasing from 57 to 89%. The probable different relevance of genetic factors in the two components has also been discussed.", "PMID": 434780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2332", "title": "Trends in human reproductive wastage in relation to long-term practice of inbreeding.", "content": "The trends in reproductive performance and wastage are studied in relation to consanguinity of marriage and age of women on a population sample of 20,626 women, from the rural and urban areas of North Arcot District in South India. Data were collected by qualified women investigators using intensive interveiw techniques and specially developed questionnaires. Adequate quality control mechanisms were set up to ensure reliability of information gathered. For each marriage, a family pedigree was drawn extending upwards to two early generations on the side of each spouse in order to determine the existence and type of consanguinity married, 80% or more of such between an uncle and a niece or between first cousins. Altogher 70 161 total pregnancies were recorded for the 20,626 women. The differences between consanguineous and non-consanguineous marriages in terms of total foetal loss, perinatal, neonatal, postneonatl and infant mortality rates showed only marginal differences that attain statistical significance only because of the large sample size involved. No consistent relationships were observed between the degree of consanguinity and these reproductive losses. These actual differences were more marked in the older age-groups of women and declined to rather insignificant proportions as the age groups became younger. Taking into consideration the various socio-demographic factors, the narrowing differentials in the reproductive wastage between consanguineous and non-consanguineous marriages from the oldest to the youngest women confirm the tapering effects of continued inbreeding practices on the reproductive wastage. Further studies on these lines are still in progress.", "contents": "Trends in human reproductive wastage in relation to long-term practice of inbreeding. The trends in reproductive performance and wastage are studied in relation to consanguinity of marriage and age of women on a population sample of 20,626 women, from the rural and urban areas of North Arcot District in South India. Data were collected by qualified women investigators using intensive interveiw techniques and specially developed questionnaires. Adequate quality control mechanisms were set up to ensure reliability of information gathered. For each marriage, a family pedigree was drawn extending upwards to two early generations on the side of each spouse in order to determine the existence and type of consanguinity married, 80% or more of such between an uncle and a niece or between first cousins. Altogher 70 161 total pregnancies were recorded for the 20,626 women. The differences between consanguineous and non-consanguineous marriages in terms of total foetal loss, perinatal, neonatal, postneonatl and infant mortality rates showed only marginal differences that attain statistical significance only because of the large sample size involved. No consistent relationships were observed between the degree of consanguinity and these reproductive losses. These actual differences were more marked in the older age-groups of women and declined to rather insignificant proportions as the age groups became younger. Taking into consideration the various socio-demographic factors, the narrowing differentials in the reproductive wastage between consanguineous and non-consanguineous marriages from the oldest to the youngest women confirm the tapering effects of continued inbreeding practices on the reproductive wastage. Further studies on these lines are still in progress.", "PMID": 434781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2333", "title": "[Effects of mycobacterial hydrosoluble adjuvants on the induction and prevention of experimental autoimmune uveo-retinitis in guinea-pigs (author's transl)].", "content": "Experimental uveo-retinitis (EAU) was induced in guinea-pigs after one systemic injection of retinal extract mixed with the hydrosoluble adjuvants (WSA) or muramyl dipeptide (MDP). In this model, 50 micrograms of WSA in incomplete Freund's adjuvant had the same adjuvanticity as 50 micrograms mycobacteria. The MDP, tested at low doses (2 to 100 micrograms), was less effective. But MDP, even in aqueous solution without oil, stimulated the induction of a tolerance to the retinal antigen: with addition of MDP, only one injection of the antigenic preparation was sufficient to delay and clearly reduce the development of EAU induced by the antigen plus complete Freund's adjuvant two and a half months later.", "contents": "[Effects of mycobacterial hydrosoluble adjuvants on the induction and prevention of experimental autoimmune uveo-retinitis in guinea-pigs (author's transl)]. Experimental uveo-retinitis (EAU) was induced in guinea-pigs after one systemic injection of retinal extract mixed with the hydrosoluble adjuvants (WSA) or muramyl dipeptide (MDP). In this model, 50 micrograms of WSA in incomplete Freund's adjuvant had the same adjuvanticity as 50 micrograms mycobacteria. The MDP, tested at low doses (2 to 100 micrograms), was less effective. But MDP, even in aqueous solution without oil, stimulated the induction of a tolerance to the retinal antigen: with addition of MDP, only one injection of the antigenic preparation was sufficient to delay and clearly reduce the development of EAU induced by the antigen plus complete Freund's adjuvant two and a half months later.", "PMID": 434782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2334", "title": "Improved lymphocyte ectoenzyme function during normal pregnancy.", "content": "During normal pregnancy, the 5'-nucleotidase (AMPase) enzyme activity on the circulating human lymphocyte pellet has been found to be increased significantly (p less than 0.001) in comparison with that of healthy normal persons employed as controls. The increased lymphocyte activity diminished rapidly subsequent to parturition. The enzyme activity on lymphocytes purified from umbilical cord blood was not increased. Acute viral infections induced a transient reduction in the enzyme activity. Further studies of this natural defence mechanism are in progress.", "contents": "Improved lymphocyte ectoenzyme function during normal pregnancy. During normal pregnancy, the 5'-nucleotidase (AMPase) enzyme activity on the circulating human lymphocyte pellet has been found to be increased significantly (p less than 0.001) in comparison with that of healthy normal persons employed as controls. The increased lymphocyte activity diminished rapidly subsequent to parturition. The enzyme activity on lymphocytes purified from umbilical cord blood was not increased. Acute viral infections induced a transient reduction in the enzyme activity. Further studies of this natural defence mechanism are in progress.", "PMID": 434783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2335", "title": "[Correlation of skin test to grass pollen with basophil degranulation test results in 72 patients (author's transl)].", "content": "Seventy-two subjects have been tested by skin-test (ST) and human basophil degranulation test (HBDT) with grass pollen extract (GPE). HBDT was done, using a suspension enriched in basophils, by a technic on slide. Results are expressed by an index (DI) which is percentage of basophils having apparently disappeared (i. e. degranulated) in presence of GPE. No less than 100 intact basophils (and often many more) were always counted in absence of GPE (control) for each subject, so that DI higher than 35% are significant (p less than 0,001). DI were higher than 35% in 28 positive ST subjects for at less one of three dilutions of GPE (10(-4), 10(-6), 10(-8)); in the 5 subjects with false-negative result, 3 had a weak ST response. In 39 subjects with negative ST, DI were higher than 35% in two subjects and only for one dilution (10(-4)). So, concordance of results of HBDT and obviously positive ST reaches 94%. In 33 positive ST subjects, a significant correlation appears between DI (at 10(-4) and 10(-6)) and flare diameter and between DI (at 10(-4)) and wheals diameter. HBDT appears to be a suitable and simple technic for routinely study of reaginic allergies.", "contents": "[Correlation of skin test to grass pollen with basophil degranulation test results in 72 patients (author's transl)]. Seventy-two subjects have been tested by skin-test (ST) and human basophil degranulation test (HBDT) with grass pollen extract (GPE). HBDT was done, using a suspension enriched in basophils, by a technic on slide. Results are expressed by an index (DI) which is percentage of basophils having apparently disappeared (i. e. degranulated) in presence of GPE. No less than 100 intact basophils (and often many more) were always counted in absence of GPE (control) for each subject, so that DI higher than 35% are significant (p less than 0,001). DI were higher than 35% in 28 positive ST subjects for at less one of three dilutions of GPE (10(-4), 10(-6), 10(-8)); in the 5 subjects with false-negative result, 3 had a weak ST response. In 39 subjects with negative ST, DI were higher than 35% in two subjects and only for one dilution (10(-4)). So, concordance of results of HBDT and obviously positive ST reaches 94%. In 33 positive ST subjects, a significant correlation appears between DI (at 10(-4) and 10(-6)) and flare diameter and between DI (at 10(-4)) and wheals diameter. HBDT appears to be a suitable and simple technic for routinely study of reaginic allergies.", "PMID": 434784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2336", "title": "[Comparative study of immunopathogenic ability of autologous and allogeneic spermatozoa in Hartley guinea-pigs (author's transl)].", "content": "Autologous or allogeneic spermatozoa in amounts of 10(8), 10(7), 10(6) or 10(5) incorporated in complete Freund's adjuvant were injected into hemiorchidectomized Hartley guinea-pigs. The course of autoimmune aspermatogenic orchi-epididymitis, delayed hypersensitivity and humoral responses to autologous and allogeneic spermatozoa and to spermatozoa autoantigens S, P and T (isolated from a large pool of spermatozoa) were investigated after 1,2,3 or 4 weeks of evolution. Testicular and epididymal lesions and the cellular and humoral responses to autoantigens S and T were nearly identical in autoimmunized and alloimmunized guinea-pigs; but the delayed hypersensitivity responses to whole spermatozoa was more frequent in alloimmunized than in autoimmunized guinea-pigs. This latter result might not be due to the addition of two responses on to autoantigens and one to alloantigens (both present in allogeneic spermatozoa) since the positive responses of the alloimmunized guinea-pigs to autologous spermatozoa compared to allogeneic were found more frequent. From the technical conditions of the experiments, especially due to the use of complete Freund's adjuvant, a helper effect originating in allotypic determinants on allogeneic spermatozoa seems an unlikely explanation. Autoimmunization or alloimmunization in incomplete Freund's adjuvant instead of complete adjuvant provoked a weak response. However, the antibody response to antigen S was significantly more frequent in alloimmunized than in autoimmunized animals; in this case allotypic determinants in autoantigen S responsible for a helper effect might be the cause.", "contents": "[Comparative study of immunopathogenic ability of autologous and allogeneic spermatozoa in Hartley guinea-pigs (author's transl)]. Autologous or allogeneic spermatozoa in amounts of 10(8), 10(7), 10(6) or 10(5) incorporated in complete Freund's adjuvant were injected into hemiorchidectomized Hartley guinea-pigs. The course of autoimmune aspermatogenic orchi-epididymitis, delayed hypersensitivity and humoral responses to autologous and allogeneic spermatozoa and to spermatozoa autoantigens S, P and T (isolated from a large pool of spermatozoa) were investigated after 1,2,3 or 4 weeks of evolution. Testicular and epididymal lesions and the cellular and humoral responses to autoantigens S and T were nearly identical in autoimmunized and alloimmunized guinea-pigs; but the delayed hypersensitivity responses to whole spermatozoa was more frequent in alloimmunized than in autoimmunized guinea-pigs. This latter result might not be due to the addition of two responses on to autoantigens and one to alloantigens (both present in allogeneic spermatozoa) since the positive responses of the alloimmunized guinea-pigs to autologous spermatozoa compared to allogeneic were found more frequent. From the technical conditions of the experiments, especially due to the use of complete Freund's adjuvant, a helper effect originating in allotypic determinants on allogeneic spermatozoa seems an unlikely explanation. Autoimmunization or alloimmunization in incomplete Freund's adjuvant instead of complete adjuvant provoked a weak response. However, the antibody response to antigen S was significantly more frequent in alloimmunized than in autoimmunized animals; in this case allotypic determinants in autoantigen S responsible for a helper effect might be the cause.", "PMID": 434785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2337", "title": "[Characteristics of the antibiotic sensitivity of nitrofuran--resistant Gram-negative bacteria of clinical origin].", "content": "494 persons with various purulent inflammatory diseases were examined. Gram-negative nitrofuran resistant organisms isolated from the clinical material were found in 22.9 per cent of the cases. Representatives of Enterobacteriaceae, Klebsiella-Enterobacter-Serratia (26.8 per cent), Proteus-Providencia (16.8 per cent) and E. coli-Arizona-Citrobacter (16.1 per cent) predominated. Pseudomonas (32.1 per cent) and Acinetobacter (5.3 per cent) predominated among the aerobic gram-negative bacteria. Sensitivity of 131 strains to 10 chemotherapeutic drugs was determined. 60.4 per cent of the aerobic and 44.2 per cent of the Coli bacteria had multiple drug resistance (to 5 and more drugs). The organisms isolated from the urine and wound excretion were most resistant. Representatives of Pseudomonas and Klebsiella-Enterobacter predominated among the polyresistant cultures. High sensitivity of the isolates to gentamicin, carbenicillin and nalidixic acid was noted.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the antibiotic sensitivity of nitrofuran--resistant Gram-negative bacteria of clinical origin]. 494 persons with various purulent inflammatory diseases were examined. Gram-negative nitrofuran resistant organisms isolated from the clinical material were found in 22.9 per cent of the cases. Representatives of Enterobacteriaceae, Klebsiella-Enterobacter-Serratia (26.8 per cent), Proteus-Providencia (16.8 per cent) and E. coli-Arizona-Citrobacter (16.1 per cent) predominated. Pseudomonas (32.1 per cent) and Acinetobacter (5.3 per cent) predominated among the aerobic gram-negative bacteria. Sensitivity of 131 strains to 10 chemotherapeutic drugs was determined. 60.4 per cent of the aerobic and 44.2 per cent of the Coli bacteria had multiple drug resistance (to 5 and more drugs). The organisms isolated from the urine and wound excretion were most resistant. Representatives of Pseudomonas and Klebsiella-Enterobacter predominated among the polyresistant cultures. High sensitivity of the isolates to gentamicin, carbenicillin and nalidixic acid was noted.", "PMID": 434799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2338", "title": "[Comparative study of the distribution of semisynthetic cephalosporins in the body of rats].", "content": "Distribution of 6 cephalosporin antibiotics, i. e. cephaloridin, cephalotin, cephradin cephacetryl, cephazolin and cephapyrin for parenteral use was studied comparatively on rats. The studies showed that all the above cephalosporins were well absorbed into the blood after intramuscular administration. The highest serum levels were achieved with the use of cephozolin. Still, its levels in the animal organs were mainly not higher and sometimes even lower than those provided by the other antibiotics. The highest levels of cephalosporins were detected in the kidneys. Cephalotin, cephapyrin and cephacetryl differed by the character of their distribution in the rats from the other 3 antibiotics: the levels of cephalotin and cephapyrin in the heart, spleen and muscles were lower than those of the other cephalosporins; sometimes they were even not detected in these organs; cephacetryl was not found in these organs. The levels of these 3 antibiotics in the kidneys were lower than those of the other cephalosporins. Cephalotin, cephacetryl and sometimes cephapyrin were not detected in the rat liver. None of the cephalosporins was found in the brain tissue.", "contents": "[Comparative study of the distribution of semisynthetic cephalosporins in the body of rats]. Distribution of 6 cephalosporin antibiotics, i. e. cephaloridin, cephalotin, cephradin cephacetryl, cephazolin and cephapyrin for parenteral use was studied comparatively on rats. The studies showed that all the above cephalosporins were well absorbed into the blood after intramuscular administration. The highest serum levels were achieved with the use of cephozolin. Still, its levels in the animal organs were mainly not higher and sometimes even lower than those provided by the other antibiotics. The highest levels of cephalosporins were detected in the kidneys. Cephalotin, cephapyrin and cephacetryl differed by the character of their distribution in the rats from the other 3 antibiotics: the levels of cephalotin and cephapyrin in the heart, spleen and muscles were lower than those of the other cephalosporins; sometimes they were even not detected in these organs; cephacetryl was not found in these organs. The levels of these 3 antibiotics in the kidneys were lower than those of the other cephalosporins. Cephalotin, cephacetryl and sometimes cephapyrin were not detected in the rat liver. None of the cephalosporins was found in the brain tissue.", "PMID": 434800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2339", "title": "[Pathomorphological picture of the liver in mice administered antitumor antibiotics intraperitoneally and its comparative assessment].", "content": "A single administration of carminomycin, ribomycin or olivomycin in LD50 or treatment of the experimental animals with these antibiotics for 10 days in the therapeutic doses equal to 10 per cent of the LD50 induced distrophic and necrobiotic changes in the liver. The use of bruneomycin in the equivalent doses induced sclerotic process in addition to the above doses resulted in a decrease in the colour intensity of DNA, RNA and protein as compared to the control, the content of glycogen and a marked increase in the amount of lipids in the hepatocyte cytoplasm. The most pronounced shifts were observed with the use of carminomycin, rubomycin and especially bruneomycin in single doses. With the use of olivomycin in a single dose the shifts were less pronounced. It should be noted that with the use of carminomycin and rubomycin the damages were of the same character by their intensity. The changes in the liver on the use of carminomycin, rubomycin and olivomycin in single doses or during the treatment course were reversible, while on the use of bruneomycin they preserved to the end of the experiment.", "contents": "[Pathomorphological picture of the liver in mice administered antitumor antibiotics intraperitoneally and its comparative assessment]. A single administration of carminomycin, ribomycin or olivomycin in LD50 or treatment of the experimental animals with these antibiotics for 10 days in the therapeutic doses equal to 10 per cent of the LD50 induced distrophic and necrobiotic changes in the liver. The use of bruneomycin in the equivalent doses induced sclerotic process in addition to the above doses resulted in a decrease in the colour intensity of DNA, RNA and protein as compared to the control, the content of glycogen and a marked increase in the amount of lipids in the hepatocyte cytoplasm. The most pronounced shifts were observed with the use of carminomycin, rubomycin and especially bruneomycin in single doses. With the use of olivomycin in a single dose the shifts were less pronounced. It should be noted that with the use of carminomycin and rubomycin the damages were of the same character by their intensity. The changes in the liver on the use of carminomycin, rubomycin and olivomycin in single doses or during the treatment course were reversible, while on the use of bruneomycin they preserved to the end of the experiment.", "PMID": 434801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2340", "title": "[Protein-nitrogen metabolism in the liver of rats intraperitoneally administered carminomycin].", "content": "It was found in the experiments with rats that in response to carminomycin administration in a single LD50 and the therapeutic doses during the treatment course the intracellular fond of the amino acids in the liver tissue increased, the autolytic processes activated, the activity of the transamination enzymes, histidine and ammonia lyases increased. The level of the residual nitrogen increased mainly at the expense of increased ammonia production and urea levels. These changes were more pronounced when the antibiotic was administered in LD50. Independent of the administration multiplicity and the antibiotic dosage they were of reversible nature and mainly disappeared by the end of the observation.", "contents": "[Protein-nitrogen metabolism in the liver of rats intraperitoneally administered carminomycin]. It was found in the experiments with rats that in response to carminomycin administration in a single LD50 and the therapeutic doses during the treatment course the intracellular fond of the amino acids in the liver tissue increased, the autolytic processes activated, the activity of the transamination enzymes, histidine and ammonia lyases increased. The level of the residual nitrogen increased mainly at the expense of increased ammonia production and urea levels. These changes were more pronounced when the antibiotic was administered in LD50. Independent of the administration multiplicity and the antibiotic dosage they were of reversible nature and mainly disappeared by the end of the observation.", "PMID": 434802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2341", "title": "[Role of antibiotics in the ecology of actinomycetes].", "content": "The organisms producing ristomycin, rifamycin, lincomycin, tobramycin, rubomycin carminomycin, olivomycin, bleomycin and actinomycin D were practically not sensitive to their own antibiotics in the concentrations close to those produced during the biosynthetic process. At the same time other actinomycetous species close to the above organisms were suppressed to a significant extent by their antibiotics in the same concentrations. The experimental data indicated that the antibiotics had a protective effect on the organisms producing them and played a significant role in ecology of the actinomycetes.", "contents": "[Role of antibiotics in the ecology of actinomycetes]. The organisms producing ristomycin, rifamycin, lincomycin, tobramycin, rubomycin carminomycin, olivomycin, bleomycin and actinomycin D were practically not sensitive to their own antibiotics in the concentrations close to those produced during the biosynthetic process. At the same time other actinomycetous species close to the above organisms were suppressed to a significant extent by their antibiotics in the same concentrations. The experimental data indicated that the antibiotics had a protective effect on the organisms producing them and played a significant role in ecology of the actinomycetes.", "PMID": 434803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2342", "title": "[Synthesis and properties of the 14-amino derivatives of daunorubicin and carminomycin].", "content": "Interaction of 14-bromine derivatives of daunorubicin and carminomycin, as well as their aglycones with secondary amines, such as piperidine, N-methylpiperazine and morpholine was studied with a purpose of preparing new potentially antitumor antibiotics. It was found that reaction in acetone or dioxan at a temperature of 50--60 degrees C resulted in formation of 14-amino derivatives of the respective bromides. 14-Piperidinyl- and 14-(N-methylpiperazinyl)-daunorubicin, 14-piperidinyl-daunorubicinon and 14-piperidinyl-carminomycinon were prepared. The structure of the new substances was confirmed by the IR, UV and NMR spectra. The antimicrobial activity of 14-amino derivatives amounted to 10--35 per cent of the activity of the initial antibiotics, i.e. daunorubicin and carminomycin.", "contents": "[Synthesis and properties of the 14-amino derivatives of daunorubicin and carminomycin]. Interaction of 14-bromine derivatives of daunorubicin and carminomycin, as well as their aglycones with secondary amines, such as piperidine, N-methylpiperazine and morpholine was studied with a purpose of preparing new potentially antitumor antibiotics. It was found that reaction in acetone or dioxan at a temperature of 50--60 degrees C resulted in formation of 14-amino derivatives of the respective bromides. 14-Piperidinyl- and 14-(N-methylpiperazinyl)-daunorubicin, 14-piperidinyl-daunorubicinon and 14-piperidinyl-carminomycinon were prepared. The structure of the new substances was confirmed by the IR, UV and NMR spectra. The antimicrobial activity of 14-amino derivatives amounted to 10--35 per cent of the activity of the initial antibiotics, i.e. daunorubicin and carminomycin.", "PMID": 434804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2343", "title": "Microbial methanogenesis and acetate metabolism in a meromictic lake.", "content": "Methanogenesis and the anaerobic metabolism of acetate were examined in the sediment and water column of Knaack Lake, a small biogenic meromictic lake located in central Wisconsin. The lake was sharply stratified during the summer and was anaerobic below a depth of 3 m. Large concentrations (4,000 mumol/liter) of dissolved methane were detected in the bottom waters. A methane concentration maximum occurred at 4 m above the sediment. The production of (14)CH(4) from (14)C-labeled HCOOH, HCO(3) (-), and CH(3)OH and [2-(14)C]acetate demonstrated microbial methanogenesis in the water column of the lake. The maximum rate of methanogenesis calculated from reduction of H(14)CO(3) (-) by endogenous electron donors in the surface sediment (depth, 22 m) was 7.6 nmol/h per 10 ml and in the water column (depth, 21 m) was 0.6 nmol/h per 10 ml. The methyl group of acetate was simultaneously metabolized to CH(4) and CO(2) in the anaerobic portions of the lake. Acetate oxidation was greatest in surface waters and decreased with water depth. Acetate was metabolized primarily to methane in the sediments and water immediately above the sediment. Sulfide inhibition studies and temperature activity profiles demonstrated that acetate metabolism was performed by several microbial populations. Sulfide additions (less than 5 mug/ml) to water from 21.5 m stimulated methanogenesis from acetate, but inhibited CO(2) production. Sulfate addition (1 mM) had no significant effect on acetate metabolism in water from 21.5 m, whereas nitrate additions (10 to 14,000 mug/liter) completely inhibited methanogenesis and stimulated CO(2) formation.", "contents": "Microbial methanogenesis and acetate metabolism in a meromictic lake. Methanogenesis and the anaerobic metabolism of acetate were examined in the sediment and water column of Knaack Lake, a small biogenic meromictic lake located in central Wisconsin. The lake was sharply stratified during the summer and was anaerobic below a depth of 3 m. Large concentrations (4,000 mumol/liter) of dissolved methane were detected in the bottom waters. A methane concentration maximum occurred at 4 m above the sediment. The production of (14)CH(4) from (14)C-labeled HCOOH, HCO(3) (-), and CH(3)OH and [2-(14)C]acetate demonstrated microbial methanogenesis in the water column of the lake. The maximum rate of methanogenesis calculated from reduction of H(14)CO(3) (-) by endogenous electron donors in the surface sediment (depth, 22 m) was 7.6 nmol/h per 10 ml and in the water column (depth, 21 m) was 0.6 nmol/h per 10 ml. The methyl group of acetate was simultaneously metabolized to CH(4) and CO(2) in the anaerobic portions of the lake. Acetate oxidation was greatest in surface waters and decreased with water depth. Acetate was metabolized primarily to methane in the sediments and water immediately above the sediment. Sulfide inhibition studies and temperature activity profiles demonstrated that acetate metabolism was performed by several microbial populations. Sulfide additions (less than 5 mug/ml) to water from 21.5 m stimulated methanogenesis from acetate, but inhibited CO(2) production. Sulfate addition (1 mM) had no significant effect on acetate metabolism in water from 21.5 m, whereas nitrate additions (10 to 14,000 mug/liter) completely inhibited methanogenesis and stimulated CO(2) formation.", "PMID": 434805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2344", "title": "Evaluation of microbial flora of the eye during wear of soft contact lenses.", "content": "The microflora of the eye has been monitored in 21 patients during a 6-month period to study changes resulting from wear of soft contact lenses. A minimum of 20 cul-de-sac cultures were taken from each patient. Fifty-one percent of cultures taken prior to lens wear were positive for microbial growth, whereas, after lens wear, positive cultures ranged from 14.3% to 30.9\" over the 6-month period. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most frequently isolated organism, followed by Micrococcus spp., diphtheroids, and Bacillus spp. Nonfermentative, gram-negative rods and fungi were isolated spordically. Bacterial growth was sparse from all specimens, but individual differences were found. The microflora of the eye appears to resemble that of the skin, suggesting that the eye has no real flora of its own, but has a transient flora supplied from the skin, possibly the eyelid.", "contents": "Evaluation of microbial flora of the eye during wear of soft contact lenses. The microflora of the eye has been monitored in 21 patients during a 6-month period to study changes resulting from wear of soft contact lenses. A minimum of 20 cul-de-sac cultures were taken from each patient. Fifty-one percent of cultures taken prior to lens wear were positive for microbial growth, whereas, after lens wear, positive cultures ranged from 14.3% to 30.9\" over the 6-month period. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most frequently isolated organism, followed by Micrococcus spp., diphtheroids, and Bacillus spp. Nonfermentative, gram-negative rods and fungi were isolated spordically. Bacterial growth was sparse from all specimens, but individual differences were found. The microflora of the eye appears to resemble that of the skin, suggesting that the eye has no real flora of its own, but has a transient flora supplied from the skin, possibly the eyelid.", "PMID": 434806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2345", "title": "Anaerobic metabolism of immediate methane precursors in Lake Mendota.", "content": "Lake Mendota sediments and the immediate overlying water column were studied to better understand the metabolism of the methanogenic precursors H2/CO2 and acetate in nature. The pool size of acetate (3.5 microns M) was very small, and the acetate turnover time (0.22h) was very rapid. The dissolved inorganic carbon pool was shown to be large (6.4 to 8.3 mM), and the turnover time was slow (111 H.). CO2 was shown to account for 41 +/- 5.5% of the methane produced in sediment. Acetate and H2/CO2 were simultaneously converted to CH4. The addition of H2 to sediments resulted in an increase specific activity of CH4 from H(14)CO3- and a decrease in specific activity of CH4 from [2-14C]acetate. Acetate addition resulted in a decrease in specific activity of CH4 from H(14)CO3-. The metabolism of H(14)CO3- or [2-14C]acetate to 14CH4 was not inhibited by addition of acetate or H2. After greater than 99% of added [2-14C]acetate had been turned over, 42% of the label was recovered as 14CH4 20% was recovered as 14CO2 and 38% was incorporated into sediment. Inhibitor studies of [2-14C]acetate metabolism in sediments demonstrated that CHCl3 completely inhibited CH4 formation, but not CO2 production. Air and nitrate addition inhibited CH4 formation and stimulated CO2 production, whereas fluoroacetate addition totally inhibited acetate metabolism. The oxidation of [2-14C]acetate to 14CO2 was shown to decrease with time when sediment was incubated before the addition of label, suggesting depletion of low levels of an endogenous sediment electron acceptor. Acetate metabolism varied seasonally and was related to the concentration of sulfate in the lake and interstitial water. Methanogenesis occurred in the sediment and in the water immediately overlying the sediment during period of lake stratification and several centimeters below the sediment-water interface during lake turnovers. These data indicate that methanogenesis in Lake Mendota sediments was limited by \"immediate\" methane precursor availability (i.e., acetate and H2), by competition for these substrates by nonmethanogens, and by seasonal variations which altered sediment and water chemistry.", "contents": "Anaerobic metabolism of immediate methane precursors in Lake Mendota. Lake Mendota sediments and the immediate overlying water column were studied to better understand the metabolism of the methanogenic precursors H2/CO2 and acetate in nature. The pool size of acetate (3.5 microns M) was very small, and the acetate turnover time (0.22h) was very rapid. The dissolved inorganic carbon pool was shown to be large (6.4 to 8.3 mM), and the turnover time was slow (111 H.). CO2 was shown to account for 41 +/- 5.5% of the methane produced in sediment. Acetate and H2/CO2 were simultaneously converted to CH4. The addition of H2 to sediments resulted in an increase specific activity of CH4 from H(14)CO3- and a decrease in specific activity of CH4 from [2-14C]acetate. Acetate addition resulted in a decrease in specific activity of CH4 from H(14)CO3-. The metabolism of H(14)CO3- or [2-14C]acetate to 14CH4 was not inhibited by addition of acetate or H2. After greater than 99% of added [2-14C]acetate had been turned over, 42% of the label was recovered as 14CH4 20% was recovered as 14CO2 and 38% was incorporated into sediment. Inhibitor studies of [2-14C]acetate metabolism in sediments demonstrated that CHCl3 completely inhibited CH4 formation, but not CO2 production. Air and nitrate addition inhibited CH4 formation and stimulated CO2 production, whereas fluoroacetate addition totally inhibited acetate metabolism. The oxidation of [2-14C]acetate to 14CO2 was shown to decrease with time when sediment was incubated before the addition of label, suggesting depletion of low levels of an endogenous sediment electron acceptor. Acetate metabolism varied seasonally and was related to the concentration of sulfate in the lake and interstitial water. Methanogenesis occurred in the sediment and in the water immediately overlying the sediment during period of lake stratification and several centimeters below the sediment-water interface during lake turnovers. These data indicate that methanogenesis in Lake Mendota sediments was limited by \"immediate\" methane precursor availability (i.e., acetate and H2), by competition for these substrates by nonmethanogens, and by seasonal variations which altered sediment and water chemistry.", "PMID": 434807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2346", "title": "Phomopsin A production by Phomopsis leptostromiformis in liquid media.", "content": "Phomopsis leptostromiformis WA1515 produced 75 to 150 mg of phomopsin A per liter in stationary cultures in a Czapek-Dox medium supplemented with 5 to 10 g of yeast extract per liter. pH and temperature optima were approximately 6.0 and 25 degrees C, respectively. A commercial tryptic digest of casein was a satisfactory alternative to the yeast extract, but poor growth and very little phomopsin were obtained when the yeast was replaced by vitamin-free Casamino Acids or a mixture of 18 amino acids. Approximately 95% of the phomopsin A produced was found in the cutlure liquid. No phomopsin was detected in shaken cultures. No phomopsin B was found in any culture. Methods are described for recovery and estimation of phomopsin A from culture liquids.", "contents": "Phomopsin A production by Phomopsis leptostromiformis in liquid media. Phomopsis leptostromiformis WA1515 produced 75 to 150 mg of phomopsin A per liter in stationary cultures in a Czapek-Dox medium supplemented with 5 to 10 g of yeast extract per liter. pH and temperature optima were approximately 6.0 and 25 degrees C, respectively. A commercial tryptic digest of casein was a satisfactory alternative to the yeast extract, but poor growth and very little phomopsin were obtained when the yeast was replaced by vitamin-free Casamino Acids or a mixture of 18 amino acids. Approximately 95% of the phomopsin A produced was found in the cutlure liquid. No phomopsin was detected in shaken cultures. No phomopsin B was found in any culture. Methods are described for recovery and estimation of phomopsin A from culture liquids.", "PMID": 434808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2347", "title": "Oxidation of methane in the absence of oxygen in lake water samples.", "content": "Methane was oxidized to carbon dioxide in the absence of oxygen by water samples from Lake Mendota, Madison, Wis. The anaerobic oxidation of methane did not result in the assimilation of carbon from methane into material precipitable by cold 10% trichloracetic acid. Only samples taken at the suface of the sediment of Lake Mendota were capable of catalyzine the anaerobic oxidation of methane. The rate of methane oxidation in the presence of oxygen was highest in samples taken from near the thermocline. Of the radioactive methane oxidized, 30 to 60% was assimilated into material precipitable by cold 10% trichloroacetic acid during aerobic incubation of the samples. These data support the conclusion that two distinct groups of methane-oxidizing organisms occur in stratifield lakes. Enrichments with acetate and methane as the sole sources of carbon and energy and sulfate as the electron acceptor resulted in the growth of bacteria that oxidize methane. Sulfate, acetate, and methane were all required for growth of enrichments. Acetate was not oxidized to carbon dioxide but was assimilated by cells. Methane was not assimilated but was oxidized to carbon dioxide in the absence of air.", "contents": "Oxidation of methane in the absence of oxygen in lake water samples. Methane was oxidized to carbon dioxide in the absence of oxygen by water samples from Lake Mendota, Madison, Wis. The anaerobic oxidation of methane did not result in the assimilation of carbon from methane into material precipitable by cold 10% trichloracetic acid. Only samples taken at the suface of the sediment of Lake Mendota were capable of catalyzine the anaerobic oxidation of methane. The rate of methane oxidation in the presence of oxygen was highest in samples taken from near the thermocline. Of the radioactive methane oxidized, 30 to 60% was assimilated into material precipitable by cold 10% trichloroacetic acid during aerobic incubation of the samples. These data support the conclusion that two distinct groups of methane-oxidizing organisms occur in stratifield lakes. Enrichments with acetate and methane as the sole sources of carbon and energy and sulfate as the electron acceptor resulted in the growth of bacteria that oxidize methane. Sulfate, acetate, and methane were all required for growth of enrichments. Acetate was not oxidized to carbon dioxide but was assimilated by cells. Methane was not assimilated but was oxidized to carbon dioxide in the absence of air.", "PMID": 434809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2348", "title": "Treatment of scleromyxedema with melphalan.", "content": "Scleromyxedema is an uncommon cutaneous fibromucinous disease with a monoclonal protein, which has resisted a number of therapies. Eight cases followed up for as long as 12 years have provided an opportunity to observe the effects of melphalan treatment in this disease. The fibrohistiocytic and mucinous change of the skin in scleromyxedema and often the monoclonal protein can be controlled by low-dose chemotherapy. Although melphalan does not usually produce clinical toxic effects of importance, it is a myelotoxic drug and cytopenia is common; one patient died of acute myelomonocytic leukemia after ten years of successful therapy of the scleromyxedema, thus implying that long-term therapy may be dangerous by itself. These patients require close supervision. Leukocyte and platelet counts must be performed every three weeks, and the dosage of melphalan adjusted accordingly.", "contents": "Treatment of scleromyxedema with melphalan. Scleromyxedema is an uncommon cutaneous fibromucinous disease with a monoclonal protein, which has resisted a number of therapies. Eight cases followed up for as long as 12 years have provided an opportunity to observe the effects of melphalan treatment in this disease. The fibrohistiocytic and mucinous change of the skin in scleromyxedema and often the monoclonal protein can be controlled by low-dose chemotherapy. Although melphalan does not usually produce clinical toxic effects of importance, it is a myelotoxic drug and cytopenia is common; one patient died of acute myelomonocytic leukemia after ten years of successful therapy of the scleromyxedema, thus implying that long-term therapy may be dangerous by itself. These patients require close supervision. Leukocyte and platelet counts must be performed every three weeks, and the dosage of melphalan adjusted accordingly.", "PMID": 434843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2349", "title": "Periumbilical perforating pseudoxanthoma elasticum.", "content": "Periumbilical pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) with transepidermal elimination of altered elastica presented a distinctive clinical pattern in six middle-aged, multiparous women. Other sites usually affected in PXE were spared. The possible genetic predisposition to PXE of these patients found its expression in the periumbilical skin, a site exposed to the trauma of multiple pregnancies. The extruded elastica had tinctorial properties that were characteristic of PXE. The clinical picture in our cases differs from clasic PXE. A peculiar acquired cutaneous PXE is not excluded.", "contents": "Periumbilical perforating pseudoxanthoma elasticum. Periumbilical pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) with transepidermal elimination of altered elastica presented a distinctive clinical pattern in six middle-aged, multiparous women. Other sites usually affected in PXE were spared. The possible genetic predisposition to PXE of these patients found its expression in the periumbilical skin, a site exposed to the trauma of multiple pregnancies. The extruded elastica had tinctorial properties that were characteristic of PXE. The clinical picture in our cases differs from clasic PXE. A peculiar acquired cutaneous PXE is not excluded.", "PMID": 434844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2350", "title": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin and internal malignant neoplasms.", "content": "This study comprised 211 patients in whom squamous cell carcinomas of the skin (SCC) had been diagnosed in the Department of Dermatology from 1950 to 1959. These patients were followed up as of Jan 1, 1976, to establish the incidence of internal malignant neoplasms. A systematic statistical study was carried out through the population register, the central register for death certificates, and the Danish Cancer Register. These registers cover the entire country, making it possible to calculate the number of expected cases of internal cancer during the above-mentioned prolonged period of observation. The investigation did not show increased incidence of internal malignant neoplasms in connection with SCC of the skin.", "contents": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin and internal malignant neoplasms. This study comprised 211 patients in whom squamous cell carcinomas of the skin (SCC) had been diagnosed in the Department of Dermatology from 1950 to 1959. These patients were followed up as of Jan 1, 1976, to establish the incidence of internal malignant neoplasms. A systematic statistical study was carried out through the population register, the central register for death certificates, and the Danish Cancer Register. These registers cover the entire country, making it possible to calculate the number of expected cases of internal cancer during the above-mentioned prolonged period of observation. The investigation did not show increased incidence of internal malignant neoplasms in connection with SCC of the skin.", "PMID": 434845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2351", "title": "Bowenoid papulosis of the genitalia.", "content": "We report 34 cases of bowenoid papulosis of the genitalia. In each case, the patient had numerous reddish brown or violaceous papular lesions, some distinctly verrucoid, situated on the genitalia. Although clinically the lesions invariably appeared benign, histologic examination of specimens from the genital lesions in each patient showed changes of squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Many of the patients gave a history of preceding viral lesions on the genitalia. Therapy in all cases was conservative but thoroughly ablative. We view bowenoid papulosis as a new entity whose biologic behavior if untreated is as yet unknown.", "contents": "Bowenoid papulosis of the genitalia. We report 34 cases of bowenoid papulosis of the genitalia. In each case, the patient had numerous reddish brown or violaceous papular lesions, some distinctly verrucoid, situated on the genitalia. Although clinically the lesions invariably appeared benign, histologic examination of specimens from the genital lesions in each patient showed changes of squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Many of the patients gave a history of preceding viral lesions on the genitalia. Therapy in all cases was conservative but thoroughly ablative. We view bowenoid papulosis as a new entity whose biologic behavior if untreated is as yet unknown.", "PMID": 434846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2352", "title": "Localized herpes simplex infections in atopic dermatitis.", "content": "Herpes simplex infections, localized to areas of atopic dermatitis, were documented in ten children. The typical clinical picture consisted of low-grade fever and exacerbation of the eczema with discrete vesicles localized to affected skin, followed by punched-out ulcerations. Recurrent attacks were observed in seven cases and coincided with active attacks of herpes labialis in other family members or close friends, suggesting reinfection as the source. In no patient did a disseminated Kaposi's varicelliform type of eruption develop. Viral cultures in 30 additional patients with acute flares of atopic dermatitis without vesicles or ulcerations failed to disclose any herpes simplex.", "contents": "Localized herpes simplex infections in atopic dermatitis. Herpes simplex infections, localized to areas of atopic dermatitis, were documented in ten children. The typical clinical picture consisted of low-grade fever and exacerbation of the eczema with discrete vesicles localized to affected skin, followed by punched-out ulcerations. Recurrent attacks were observed in seven cases and coincided with active attacks of herpes labialis in other family members or close friends, suggesting reinfection as the source. In no patient did a disseminated Kaposi's varicelliform type of eruption develop. Viral cultures in 30 additional patients with acute flares of atopic dermatitis without vesicles or ulcerations failed to disclose any herpes simplex.", "PMID": 434847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2353", "title": "Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Successful treatment with intermittent oral doses of clotrimazole.", "content": "Treatment of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis has included drugs, immunotherapy, and replacement of nutritional and endocrine deficiency. Although amphotericin B is the best known and most commonly used form of treatment, the imidazole antibiotic clotrimazole has shown promise as an effective agent that can be given orally with low toxicity. A 9-year-old girl responded to intermittent clotrimazole therapy with complete and prolonged remission. This form of treatment offers advantages in safety and effectiveness over other therapies for chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.", "contents": "Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Successful treatment with intermittent oral doses of clotrimazole. Treatment of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis has included drugs, immunotherapy, and replacement of nutritional and endocrine deficiency. Although amphotericin B is the best known and most commonly used form of treatment, the imidazole antibiotic clotrimazole has shown promise as an effective agent that can be given orally with low toxicity. A 9-year-old girl responded to intermittent clotrimazole therapy with complete and prolonged remission. This form of treatment offers advantages in safety and effectiveness over other therapies for chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.", "PMID": 434848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2354", "title": "Necrotizing sialometaplasia. A condition simulating malignancy.", "content": "Necrotizing sialometaplasia occurred in a 55-year-old woman. The ulcerated lesion on the hard palate was treated conservatively and resolved spontaneously in about three months. The histology of the lesion consisted of coagulative necrosis of the salivary gland lobules and prominent squamous metaplasia within adjacent viable lobules. Since this benign lesion has frequently been mistaken for mucoepidermoid carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, recognition of it may spare the patient a radical surgical procedure.", "contents": "Necrotizing sialometaplasia. A condition simulating malignancy. Necrotizing sialometaplasia occurred in a 55-year-old woman. The ulcerated lesion on the hard palate was treated conservatively and resolved spontaneously in about three months. The histology of the lesion consisted of coagulative necrosis of the salivary gland lobules and prominent squamous metaplasia within adjacent viable lobules. Since this benign lesion has frequently been mistaken for mucoepidermoid carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, recognition of it may spare the patient a radical surgical procedure.", "PMID": 434849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2355", "title": "Localized Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "content": "A 34-year-old woman had the cutaneous features of the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which was strictly limited to the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the region of the left shoulder. The disorder started at approximately age 22 with the development of subcutaneous nodules. Hyperextensibility of the skin in this region developed within the subsequent five years. There was a notable lack of the usually associated joint hyperextensibility, bleeding tendency, scar formation, or the serious systemic components of the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "contents": "Localized Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. A 34-year-old woman had the cutaneous features of the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which was strictly limited to the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the region of the left shoulder. The disorder started at approximately age 22 with the development of subcutaneous nodules. Hyperextensibility of the skin in this region developed within the subsequent five years. There was a notable lack of the usually associated joint hyperextensibility, bleeding tendency, scar formation, or the serious systemic components of the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "PMID": 434850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2356", "title": "Steatocystoma multiplex. Report of a florid case and a review.", "content": "A patient had numerous cysts over almost all of his skin surface. The lesions were persistently infected, painful, and odorous, and were contributory to the patient's psychological problems. The cysts were histologically determined to be of the steatocystoma multiplex variety. Several therapeutic modalities were used but only surgical incision, drainage, and electrocautery were beneficial.", "contents": "Steatocystoma multiplex. Report of a florid case and a review. A patient had numerous cysts over almost all of his skin surface. The lesions were persistently infected, painful, and odorous, and were contributory to the patient's psychological problems. The cysts were histologically determined to be of the steatocystoma multiplex variety. Several therapeutic modalities were used but only surgical incision, drainage, and electrocautery were beneficial.", "PMID": 434851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2357", "title": "Histoplasmosis of skin and lymph nodes and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.", "content": "Nodular skin and cervical lymph node lesions of histoplasmosis, unassociated with systemic symptoms of the infection, developed in a 63-year-old man with untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The histologic patterns in both the skin and lymph node were those of a lymphoproliferative disorder, but Histoplasma organisms were found within a few scattered histiocytes after a careful search. The subtle clinical and pathologic presentation might lead one to overlook the organisms and to believe that the leukemic process had progressed, resulting in potentially dangerous systemic involvement of histoplasmosis and unnecessary chemotherapy for his leukemic process. Complete remission of histoplasmosis was obtained with amphotericin B therapy.", "contents": "Histoplasmosis of skin and lymph nodes and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Nodular skin and cervical lymph node lesions of histoplasmosis, unassociated with systemic symptoms of the infection, developed in a 63-year-old man with untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The histologic patterns in both the skin and lymph node were those of a lymphoproliferative disorder, but Histoplasma organisms were found within a few scattered histiocytes after a careful search. The subtle clinical and pathologic presentation might lead one to overlook the organisms and to believe that the leukemic process had progressed, resulting in potentially dangerous systemic involvement of histoplasmosis and unnecessary chemotherapy for his leukemic process. Complete remission of histoplasmosis was obtained with amphotericin B therapy.", "PMID": 434852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2358", "title": "Eruptive vellus hair cysts.", "content": "Umbilicated and nonumbilicated papules were present on the presternal area of a patient with eruptive vellus hair cysts. Histopathological examination of umbilicated papules showed penetration of vellus hairs through cyst walls, surrounding granulomatous foreign body reaction, and communication to the surface of the skin with released vellus hairs present in the pore. This suggests that resolution of some of the cysts in this disorder may occur by transepithelial elimination.", "contents": "Eruptive vellus hair cysts. Umbilicated and nonumbilicated papules were present on the presternal area of a patient with eruptive vellus hair cysts. Histopathological examination of umbilicated papules showed penetration of vellus hairs through cyst walls, surrounding granulomatous foreign body reaction, and communication to the surface of the skin with released vellus hairs present in the pore. This suggests that resolution of some of the cysts in this disorder may occur by transepithelial elimination.", "PMID": 434853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2359", "title": "Systemic lupus erythematosus. Association with previous neonatal lupus erythematosus.", "content": "A patient previously reported to have discoid lupus erythematosus as a neonate eventually developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at age 19 years. This case illustrates that although neonatal lupus erythematosus is usually self-limited, SLE may develop in selected patients in future years.", "contents": "Systemic lupus erythematosus. Association with previous neonatal lupus erythematosus. A patient previously reported to have discoid lupus erythematosus as a neonate eventually developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at age 19 years. This case illustrates that although neonatal lupus erythematosus is usually self-limited, SLE may develop in selected patients in future years.", "PMID": 434854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2360", "title": "Demodex granuloma.", "content": "A punch biopsy was done to diagnose a progressive pustular facial rash in a middle-aged woman. The biopsy specimen disclosed an intact extrafollicular Demodex folliculorum, which may be the causative organism. A review of 30 cases of granulomatous facial lesions from the Mayo Clinic indicated that this finding is uncommon.", "contents": "Demodex granuloma. A punch biopsy was done to diagnose a progressive pustular facial rash in a middle-aged woman. The biopsy specimen disclosed an intact extrafollicular Demodex folliculorum, which may be the causative organism. A review of 30 cases of granulomatous facial lesions from the Mayo Clinic indicated that this finding is uncommon.", "PMID": 434855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2361", "title": "Topical methoxsalen administration and sunlamp fluorescent irradiation in psoriasis.", "content": "Analysis of standard fluorescent sunlamps (Westinghouse) indicates that in addition to UVB (290 to 320 nm), a considerable amount of UVA (320 to 400 nm) is also present in their emissions. Since the benefits of topical psoralen administration and UVA have already been demonstrated, and prior experience by ourselves and others with UVB has indicated that some psoriasis benefited from UVB alone, localized areas and plaques of 20 patients were treated with topical administration of psoralens and fluorescent sunlamp bulbs to determine if such a light source with this emission spectrum would be advantageous. Results indicated a total resolution in 17 of 20 patients after an average of 18 treatments. Adverse blistering phototoxic reactions and excessive hyperpigmentation were not encountered. The UVB erythema response of normal skin served as the guide to light dosage in the same manner as administration of the Goeckerman regimen. Therefore, the use of psoralens was very effective when combined with fluorescent sunlamp irradiation; however, the potential risks of photocarcinogenicity makes this treatment experimental and should be reserved for recalcitrant cases.", "contents": "Topical methoxsalen administration and sunlamp fluorescent irradiation in psoriasis. Analysis of standard fluorescent sunlamps (Westinghouse) indicates that in addition to UVB (290 to 320 nm), a considerable amount of UVA (320 to 400 nm) is also present in their emissions. Since the benefits of topical psoralen administration and UVA have already been demonstrated, and prior experience by ourselves and others with UVB has indicated that some psoriasis benefited from UVB alone, localized areas and plaques of 20 patients were treated with topical administration of psoralens and fluorescent sunlamp bulbs to determine if such a light source with this emission spectrum would be advantageous. Results indicated a total resolution in 17 of 20 patients after an average of 18 treatments. Adverse blistering phototoxic reactions and excessive hyperpigmentation were not encountered. The UVB erythema response of normal skin served as the guide to light dosage in the same manner as administration of the Goeckerman regimen. Therefore, the use of psoralens was very effective when combined with fluorescent sunlamp irradiation; however, the potential risks of photocarcinogenicity makes this treatment experimental and should be reserved for recalcitrant cases.", "PMID": 434863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2362", "title": "Skin levels and vasoconstrictor assay of topically applied hydrocortisone.", "content": "Ointment containing 2.5% hydrocortisone was applied topically under occlusion to 84 subjects. Fifty-three percent of the population showed skin blanching in response to topical application of the steroid. To correlate vasoconstrictor response with drug level, hydrocortisone concentrations were determined fluorometrically in skin samples from 16 subjects in whom skin blanching was also assessed. The epidermal concentration of hydrocortisone was significantly greater in those subjects who exhibited blanching. Data suggest that a minimum epidermal reservoir of 200 micrograms of hydrocortisone per gram of lyophilized tissue is necessary to elicit a definite vasoconstrictor response.", "contents": "Skin levels and vasoconstrictor assay of topically applied hydrocortisone. Ointment containing 2.5% hydrocortisone was applied topically under occlusion to 84 subjects. Fifty-three percent of the population showed skin blanching in response to topical application of the steroid. To correlate vasoconstrictor response with drug level, hydrocortisone concentrations were determined fluorometrically in skin samples from 16 subjects in whom skin blanching was also assessed. The epidermal concentration of hydrocortisone was significantly greater in those subjects who exhibited blanching. Data suggest that a minimum epidermal reservoir of 200 micrograms of hydrocortisone per gram of lyophilized tissue is necessary to elicit a definite vasoconstrictor response.", "PMID": 434864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2363", "title": "Lymphoid follicles in subcutaneous inflammatory disease.", "content": "A review of inflammatory subcutaneous disease revealed that lymphoid follicles are observed frequently in lupus panniculitis. They are found rarely in other lymphocytic inflammatory diseases involving the panniculus, such as morphea, erythema nodosum, and erythema induratum. The lymphoid follicle may be an indication of immunoreactive and connective tissue disease, and cases should be evaluated with this in mind.", "contents": "Lymphoid follicles in subcutaneous inflammatory disease. A review of inflammatory subcutaneous disease revealed that lymphoid follicles are observed frequently in lupus panniculitis. They are found rarely in other lymphocytic inflammatory diseases involving the panniculus, such as morphea, erythema nodosum, and erythema induratum. The lymphoid follicle may be an indication of immunoreactive and connective tissue disease, and cases should be evaluated with this in mind.", "PMID": 434865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2364", "title": "Trichomycosis pubis.", "content": "Trichomycosis is a bacterial infection of hair that involves the axilla and, uncommonly, the pubis. The causative agent of trichomycosis pubis is probably the same as that in trichomycosis axillaris, as determined by culture and electron microscopy. We believe that increased awareness of trichomycosis pubis will show it to be common in certain environments.", "contents": "Trichomycosis pubis. Trichomycosis is a bacterial infection of hair that involves the axilla and, uncommonly, the pubis. The causative agent of trichomycosis pubis is probably the same as that in trichomycosis axillaris, as determined by culture and electron microscopy. We believe that increased awareness of trichomycosis pubis will show it to be common in certain environments.", "PMID": 434866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2365", "title": "Hypodermitis sclerodermiformis and unusual acid-fast bacteria.", "content": "We described two patients with localized, chronic, painful, scleroderma-like lesions of the lower part of the leg associated with venous stasis. This type of lesion has been termed \"hypodermitis sclerodermiformis,\" and we review the literature pertinent to this entity. In addition, skin biopsy material was studied for the presence of acid-fast microbes. In both cases, Fite-Faraco-stained tissue sections contained many acid-fast coccoid and giant microbial forms suggestive of transitional L forms. Culture of the lesion in both cases was positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis. Until the cause is fully clarified, the search for acid-fast bacteria appears warranted in formed of pseudoscleroderma such as hypodermitis sclerodermiformis.", "contents": "Hypodermitis sclerodermiformis and unusual acid-fast bacteria. We described two patients with localized, chronic, painful, scleroderma-like lesions of the lower part of the leg associated with venous stasis. This type of lesion has been termed \"hypodermitis sclerodermiformis,\" and we review the literature pertinent to this entity. In addition, skin biopsy material was studied for the presence of acid-fast microbes. In both cases, Fite-Faraco-stained tissue sections contained many acid-fast coccoid and giant microbial forms suggestive of transitional L forms. Culture of the lesion in both cases was positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis. Until the cause is fully clarified, the search for acid-fast bacteria appears warranted in formed of pseudoscleroderma such as hypodermitis sclerodermiformis.", "PMID": 434867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2366", "title": "Identification of a neutrophil chemotactic inhibitor in a patient with recurrent pyoderma.", "content": "Host defense mechanisms were studied in a patient with recurrent pyoderma of the scalp. Evaluation of the patient's inflammatory response demonstrated normal yeast phagocytosis, normal capillary tube migration, normal results from a nitroblue tetrazolium dye test, and significantly decreased neutrophil chemotactic response (NC). The impaired NC was associated with a heat labile plasma inhibitor. Chromatography of the patient's and of normal human plasma demonstrated three distinct protein peaks. Chemotactic inhibitory activity was found in the third peak of the patient's plasma but not in the control plasma. Normal in vitro NC was restored when greater than 40% normal human plasma was added to the column fractions that contained the inhibitor. Based on these findings, a subsequent exacerbation of the patient's pyoderma was treated with fresh frozen plasma, and dramatic clinical improvement occurred within 72 hours.", "contents": "Identification of a neutrophil chemotactic inhibitor in a patient with recurrent pyoderma. Host defense mechanisms were studied in a patient with recurrent pyoderma of the scalp. Evaluation of the patient's inflammatory response demonstrated normal yeast phagocytosis, normal capillary tube migration, normal results from a nitroblue tetrazolium dye test, and significantly decreased neutrophil chemotactic response (NC). The impaired NC was associated with a heat labile plasma inhibitor. Chromatography of the patient's and of normal human plasma demonstrated three distinct protein peaks. Chemotactic inhibitory activity was found in the third peak of the patient's plasma but not in the control plasma. Normal in vitro NC was restored when greater than 40% normal human plasma was added to the column fractions that contained the inhibitor. Based on these findings, a subsequent exacerbation of the patient's pyoderma was treated with fresh frozen plasma, and dramatic clinical improvement occurred within 72 hours.", "PMID": 434868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2367", "title": "Transient neonatal pustular melanosis.", "content": "A black male infant had congenital lesions that consisted of pigmented macules, many of which had a peripheral collarette of scale, and vesicopustules. The appearance of this patient fit the clinical syndrome of transient neonatal pustular melanosis, a newly described vesicopustular disease of the newborn. Differential diagnosis in this patient included the following conditions: erythema toxicum neonatorum, staphylococcal pyoderma, and herpes simplex.", "contents": "Transient neonatal pustular melanosis. A black male infant had congenital lesions that consisted of pigmented macules, many of which had a peripheral collarette of scale, and vesicopustules. The appearance of this patient fit the clinical syndrome of transient neonatal pustular melanosis, a newly described vesicopustular disease of the newborn. Differential diagnosis in this patient included the following conditions: erythema toxicum neonatorum, staphylococcal pyoderma, and herpes simplex.", "PMID": 434869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2368", "title": "Persistent subcutaneous abscesses following Pseudomonas sepsis. Treatment by surgical incision and drainage.", "content": "Despite appropriate and adequate antibiotic therapy, multiple subcutaneous abscesses developed in a child with Pseudomonas aeruginosa spesis and meningitis. The patient's condition remained toxic until the abscesses were incised and drained.", "contents": "Persistent subcutaneous abscesses following Pseudomonas sepsis. Treatment by surgical incision and drainage. Despite appropriate and adequate antibiotic therapy, multiple subcutaneous abscesses developed in a child with Pseudomonas aeruginosa spesis and meningitis. The patient's condition remained toxic until the abscesses were incised and drained.", "PMID": 434870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2369", "title": "Alkaptonuria with extensive ochronosis.", "content": "A 59-year-old woman with previously documented alkaptonuria was examined for extensive ochronosis of recent onset. The cause of the extensive skin pigmentations were thought to be secondary to decreased renal clearance of homogentisic acid because of a decline in the patient's renal function. If extensive or rapidly progressive skin pigmentation is noted in a patient with alkaptonuria, then evaluation of the patient's renal status should be done because unrelated renal disease has been reported in patients with severe ochronosis.", "contents": "Alkaptonuria with extensive ochronosis. A 59-year-old woman with previously documented alkaptonuria was examined for extensive ochronosis of recent onset. The cause of the extensive skin pigmentations were thought to be secondary to decreased renal clearance of homogentisic acid because of a decline in the patient's renal function. If extensive or rapidly progressive skin pigmentation is noted in a patient with alkaptonuria, then evaluation of the patient's renal status should be done because unrelated renal disease has been reported in patients with severe ochronosis.", "PMID": 434871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2370", "title": "Cutaneous chylous reflux. The weeping scrotum.", "content": "The cutaneous lesions associated with reflux of lymphatic fluid and chyle from the skin have received little attention in the dermatologic literature. We describe a patient with such lesions, and discuss the clinical, histopathologic, and lymphangiographic manifestations. We review the classification of lymphedema and the commonly seen cutaneous lesions.", "contents": "Cutaneous chylous reflux. The weeping scrotum. The cutaneous lesions associated with reflux of lymphatic fluid and chyle from the skin have received little attention in the dermatologic literature. We describe a patient with such lesions, and discuss the clinical, histopathologic, and lymphangiographic manifestations. We review the classification of lymphedema and the commonly seen cutaneous lesions.", "PMID": 434872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2371", "title": "A congenital ichthyosiform syndrome with deafness and keratitis.", "content": "This is a report on two children with a syndrome characterized by an extensive congenital ichthyosiform eruption, neurosensory deafness, hypotrichosis, partial anhidrosis, and vascularization of the cornea. The facial involvement is distinctive. Other features are dystrophy of the nails and tight heel cords. Both children are of normal intelligence. The inheritance pattern is unknown.", "contents": "A congenital ichthyosiform syndrome with deafness and keratitis. This is a report on two children with a syndrome characterized by an extensive congenital ichthyosiform eruption, neurosensory deafness, hypotrichosis, partial anhidrosis, and vascularization of the cornea. The facial involvement is distinctive. Other features are dystrophy of the nails and tight heel cords. Both children are of normal intelligence. The inheritance pattern is unknown.", "PMID": 434873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2372", "title": "Subungual osteochondroma. Differential diagnosis and treatment.", "content": "Subungual osteochondroma, a rare disorder of the fingers and toes, occurred in five patients. Clinical features of the condition include nail deformation, history of long, slow growth, and characteristic radiologic features. Surgery is directed toward total tumor resection with preservation of the nailbed to achieve normal nail growth. Differential diagnosis included bony, cartilagionous, and soft tissue tumors as well as cystic lesions. Malignant tumor should be suspected by not confused with this benign disorder. Roentgenologic examination is indicated in the differential clinical diagnosis of any subungual mass.", "contents": "Subungual osteochondroma. Differential diagnosis and treatment. Subungual osteochondroma, a rare disorder of the fingers and toes, occurred in five patients. Clinical features of the condition include nail deformation, history of long, slow growth, and characteristic radiologic features. Surgery is directed toward total tumor resection with preservation of the nailbed to achieve normal nail growth. Differential diagnosis included bony, cartilagionous, and soft tissue tumors as well as cystic lesions. Malignant tumor should be suspected by not confused with this benign disorder. Roentgenologic examination is indicated in the differential clinical diagnosis of any subungual mass.", "PMID": 434874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2373", "title": "Hereditary acrolabial telangiectasia. A report of familial blue lips, nails, and nipples.", "content": "We describe a mother and two daughters who had the following clinical manifestations: bluish discoloration of the vermillion ridge of the lips, nipple areolae, and nail beds; discrete telangiectasia of the chest, elbows, and dorsa of the hands; varicosities of the lower part of the legs; and (in the two daughters) migraine headaches. Routine histologic examination of tissue from the lips and elbows disclosed extensive, dilated, horizontal subpapillary telangiectases. Enzyme histochemical stains demonstrated activity of adenosine triphosphatase and leucine aminopeptidase around these dilated vessels. Alkaline phosphatase activity was strikingly absent from the dilated subpapillary vessels. By electron microscopy, these vessels were demonstrated to be postcapillary venules. We propose an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance.", "contents": "Hereditary acrolabial telangiectasia. A report of familial blue lips, nails, and nipples. We describe a mother and two daughters who had the following clinical manifestations: bluish discoloration of the vermillion ridge of the lips, nipple areolae, and nail beds; discrete telangiectasia of the chest, elbows, and dorsa of the hands; varicosities of the lower part of the legs; and (in the two daughters) migraine headaches. Routine histologic examination of tissue from the lips and elbows disclosed extensive, dilated, horizontal subpapillary telangiectases. Enzyme histochemical stains demonstrated activity of adenosine triphosphatase and leucine aminopeptidase around these dilated vessels. Alkaline phosphatase activity was strikingly absent from the dilated subpapillary vessels. By electron microscopy, these vessels were demonstrated to be postcapillary venules. We propose an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance.", "PMID": 434875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2374", "title": "Unilateral blepharochalasis.", "content": "True blepharochalasis occurring in young adults and associated with recurrent bouts of eyelid swelling and eventual lid laxity is an uncommon entity. We report the case of an 18-year-old woman who had a nine-year history of unilateral blepharochalasis. A skin biopsy specimen that showed the absence of stainable elastic tissue confirmed the clinical impression, and appropriate surgical correction was carried out.", "contents": "Unilateral blepharochalasis. True blepharochalasis occurring in young adults and associated with recurrent bouts of eyelid swelling and eventual lid laxity is an uncommon entity. We report the case of an 18-year-old woman who had a nine-year history of unilateral blepharochalasis. A skin biopsy specimen that showed the absence of stainable elastic tissue confirmed the clinical impression, and appropriate surgical correction was carried out.", "PMID": 434876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2375", "title": "Effect of tolazoline in severe hyaline membrane disease.", "content": "Tolazoline hydrochloride was given as a pulmonary vasodilator to 20 preterm infants with severe hyaline membrane disease requiring mechanical ventilation who developed persistent severe hypoxaemia. The drug was only given when deterioration persisted despite changes in ventilation techniques and thus there were no control infants. A significant improvement in arterial oxygenation was observed, particularly in those infants without intracranial haemorrhage or pneumothroax. Nine of 10 infants who had an obvious clinical response to tolazoline survived, whereas only 2 survived out of 10 who failed to respond, both being subsequently shown to have pneumothoraces. There appears to be a place for the use of tolazoline in a severely hypoxaemic infant with hyaline membrane disease who is being ventilated and in whom arterial oxygenation cannot be improved by further increase in the inspired oxygen concentration or by alteration of ventilator settings, provided pneumothorax has been excluded.", "contents": "Effect of tolazoline in severe hyaline membrane disease. Tolazoline hydrochloride was given as a pulmonary vasodilator to 20 preterm infants with severe hyaline membrane disease requiring mechanical ventilation who developed persistent severe hypoxaemia. The drug was only given when deterioration persisted despite changes in ventilation techniques and thus there were no control infants. A significant improvement in arterial oxygenation was observed, particularly in those infants without intracranial haemorrhage or pneumothroax. Nine of 10 infants who had an obvious clinical response to tolazoline survived, whereas only 2 survived out of 10 who failed to respond, both being subsequently shown to have pneumothoraces. There appears to be a place for the use of tolazoline in a severely hypoxaemic infant with hyaline membrane disease who is being ventilated and in whom arterial oxygenation cannot be improved by further increase in the inspired oxygen concentration or by alteration of ventilator settings, provided pneumothorax has been excluded.", "PMID": 434884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2376", "title": "Factors affecting neonatal jaundice.", "content": "Plasma bilirubin was estimated on 690 term infants on about the 6th day of life. Perinatal factors were recorded and the results analysed. Hyperbilirubinaemia was defined as a level greater than 205 micromol/1 (12 mg/100 ml) and this was present in 20% of cases. Three factors--epidural analgesia, breast feeding, and poor weight recovery--showed highly significant associations with jaundice. The relative importance of these is discussed and compared with recent reports. Induction of labour, for reasons other than postmaturity, and a gestational age less than 39 weeks showed a slightly increased incidence of jaundice. There was no correlation with other factors tested including oxytocic drug administration. Despite the high incidence (20%) of hyperbilirubinaemia, only 2.5% infants needed treatment and none required exchange transfusion. Radical changes in obstetric management or infant feeding are not indicated.", "contents": "Factors affecting neonatal jaundice. Plasma bilirubin was estimated on 690 term infants on about the 6th day of life. Perinatal factors were recorded and the results analysed. Hyperbilirubinaemia was defined as a level greater than 205 micromol/1 (12 mg/100 ml) and this was present in 20% of cases. Three factors--epidural analgesia, breast feeding, and poor weight recovery--showed highly significant associations with jaundice. The relative importance of these is discussed and compared with recent reports. Induction of labour, for reasons other than postmaturity, and a gestational age less than 39 weeks showed a slightly increased incidence of jaundice. There was no correlation with other factors tested including oxytocic drug administration. Despite the high incidence (20%) of hyperbilirubinaemia, only 2.5% infants needed treatment and none required exchange transfusion. Radical changes in obstetric management or infant feeding are not indicated.", "PMID": 434885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2377", "title": "Antigen-antibody complexes in the serum of patients with juvenile chronic arthritis.", "content": "IgG-containing antigen-antibody complexes were detected in the sera of all of 7 patients with the systemic form of juvenile chronic arthritis, usually at high levels. Only 9 of 25 patients with the polyarticular form had such complexes, usually at low levels. Three patients had low levels of serum IgA which were probably drug induced; the one patient with low C2 and the 3 with low yeast opsonisation were probably not more than to be expected in a random population.", "contents": "Antigen-antibody complexes in the serum of patients with juvenile chronic arthritis. IgG-containing antigen-antibody complexes were detected in the sera of all of 7 patients with the systemic form of juvenile chronic arthritis, usually at high levels. Only 9 of 25 patients with the polyarticular form had such complexes, usually at low levels. Three patients had low levels of serum IgA which were probably drug induced; the one patient with low C2 and the 3 with low yeast opsonisation were probably not more than to be expected in a random population.", "PMID": 434886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2378", "title": "Reduction of insulin dose on changing diabetic children from standard to monocomponent insulins.", "content": "21 diabetic children requiring greater than 50 units of standard insulin daily were changed to a monocomponent insulin. During the 3 months before the change the insulin dose had risen significantly from a mean of 70 to a mean of 77 units daily. During the 3 months after the change the dose fell significantly to a mean of 53 units daily. This decrease in insulin requirement was associated with a general improvement in diabetic control. This was assessed clinically and measured in 10 children by an analysis of home urine tests and in 8 children by an analysis of 24-hour urine glucose excretion.", "contents": "Reduction of insulin dose on changing diabetic children from standard to monocomponent insulins. 21 diabetic children requiring greater than 50 units of standard insulin daily were changed to a monocomponent insulin. During the 3 months before the change the insulin dose had risen significantly from a mean of 70 to a mean of 77 units daily. During the 3 months after the change the dose fell significantly to a mean of 53 units daily. This decrease in insulin requirement was associated with a general improvement in diabetic control. This was assessed clinically and measured in 10 children by an analysis of home urine tests and in 8 children by an analysis of 24-hour urine glucose excretion.", "PMID": 434887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2379", "title": "Interferon synthesis by human colostral leucocytes.", "content": "The antiviral potential of human colostral leucocytes was assessed by their capacity to produce interferon. Leucocytes cultured from colostrum were stimulated by mitogens or Newcastle disease virus (NDV) to produce interferon which, by metabolic and physicochemical criteria, corresponded to normal human leucocyte interferon. Prepartum cells produced higher levels than postpartum cells. Colostral cells were less efficient producers than blood leucocytes.", "contents": "Interferon synthesis by human colostral leucocytes. The antiviral potential of human colostral leucocytes was assessed by their capacity to produce interferon. Leucocytes cultured from colostrum were stimulated by mitogens or Newcastle disease virus (NDV) to produce interferon which, by metabolic and physicochemical criteria, corresponded to normal human leucocyte interferon. Prepartum cells produced higher levels than postpartum cells. Colostral cells were less efficient producers than blood leucocytes.", "PMID": 434888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2380", "title": "Duodenal bile acids in infants with protracted diarrhoea.", "content": "Bile acids were estimated in the duodenum of infants with protracted diarrhoea and compared with those in a control group. Significantly lower levels of total bile acids were found in infants with protracted diarrhoea, a finding which may be due to ileal dysfunction. Low concentrations of total bile acids may contribute to the poor nutritional state of these patients by impairing the normal digestion and absorption of dietary fat and fat-soluble vitamins. The absence of deconjugated bile acids in the duodenal juice of most infants with protracted diarrhoea suggests that they do not contribute significantly to the pathophysiology of this disorder.", "contents": "Duodenal bile acids in infants with protracted diarrhoea. Bile acids were estimated in the duodenum of infants with protracted diarrhoea and compared with those in a control group. Significantly lower levels of total bile acids were found in infants with protracted diarrhoea, a finding which may be due to ileal dysfunction. Low concentrations of total bile acids may contribute to the poor nutritional state of these patients by impairing the normal digestion and absorption of dietary fat and fat-soluble vitamins. The absence of deconjugated bile acids in the duodenal juice of most infants with protracted diarrhoea suggests that they do not contribute significantly to the pathophysiology of this disorder.", "PMID": 434889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2381", "title": "Familial partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3 (3q).", "content": "A case of partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3 (3q21 leads to qter) is described. The clinical findings are compared with those in 5 previously reported cases. There is hirsutism and characteristic facial dysmorphism, the common features of which are a square-shaped face, prominent nasal bridge, everted nostrils, hypertelorism, and palate abnormalities; occurring less often are abnormalities of vertebrae, thorax, and digits, or cardiovascular, urinogenital, and central nervous system. New features noted in this present case are absence of right eye from orbit and spina bifida. The spectrum of this syndrome is discussed, with possible relation to the degree of trisomy. The present case is the 6th to be reported with partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3.", "contents": "Familial partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3 (3q). A case of partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3 (3q21 leads to qter) is described. The clinical findings are compared with those in 5 previously reported cases. There is hirsutism and characteristic facial dysmorphism, the common features of which are a square-shaped face, prominent nasal bridge, everted nostrils, hypertelorism, and palate abnormalities; occurring less often are abnormalities of vertebrae, thorax, and digits, or cardiovascular, urinogenital, and central nervous system. New features noted in this present case are absence of right eye from orbit and spina bifida. The spectrum of this syndrome is discussed, with possible relation to the degree of trisomy. The present case is the 6th to be reported with partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 3.", "PMID": 434890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2382", "title": "Familial occurrence of omphalocele suggesting sex-linked inheritance.", "content": "A family is described in which 4 males in two generations had omphalocele. There was no case of omphalocele in any of the women. It is suggested that the mode of inheritance could be a sex-linked recessive trait.", "contents": "Familial occurrence of omphalocele suggesting sex-linked inheritance. A family is described in which 4 males in two generations had omphalocele. There was no case of omphalocele in any of the women. It is suggested that the mode of inheritance could be a sex-linked recessive trait.", "PMID": 434891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2383", "title": "Nonaccidental poisoning in childhood.", "content": "A boy aged 7 years 10 months was admitted to hospital on several occasions in an unconscius state with twitching and apnoeic episodes. Initial investigations failed to show a specific cause. During his time in hospital he had recurrent episodes of loss of consciousness and, on the last occasion, hypotension and ventricular tachycardia. A diagnosis of imipramine poisoning was established by the presence of imipramine in stomach washings and blood. The drug was being given to the child, both at home and in hospital, by his mother. The possibility of nonaccidental poisoning must be considered if there is no obvious cause for a child's illness. In this case the mother responded to psychiatric treatment.", "contents": "Nonaccidental poisoning in childhood. A boy aged 7 years 10 months was admitted to hospital on several occasions in an unconscius state with twitching and apnoeic episodes. Initial investigations failed to show a specific cause. During his time in hospital he had recurrent episodes of loss of consciousness and, on the last occasion, hypotension and ventricular tachycardia. A diagnosis of imipramine poisoning was established by the presence of imipramine in stomach washings and blood. The drug was being given to the child, both at home and in hospital, by his mother. The possibility of nonaccidental poisoning must be considered if there is no obvious cause for a child's illness. In this case the mother responded to psychiatric treatment.", "PMID": 434892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2384", "title": "Quantitation of digital clubbing by shadowgram technique.", "content": "Finger clubbing was quantified from the magnified silhouette of the right index finger in controls and patients with clubbing, using a simple shadowgram technique. There was good correlation between clinical assessment and measurement of both the profile angle and the hyponychial angle. The hyponychial angle appeared to be a more accurate indicator of clubbing than the profile angle.", "contents": "Quantitation of digital clubbing by shadowgram technique. Finger clubbing was quantified from the magnified silhouette of the right index finger in controls and patients with clubbing, using a simple shadowgram technique. There was good correlation between clinical assessment and measurement of both the profile angle and the hyponychial angle. The hyponychial angle appeared to be a more accurate indicator of clubbing than the profile angle.", "PMID": 434893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2385", "title": "Fatal bleeding from gastric ulceration during first day of life--possible association with social stress.", "content": "Death from haemorrhage is described in a 21-hour-old baby boy with acute gastric ulceration. Particular note is made of the very high level of psychosocial maternal stress during the last trimester of pregnancy. A causal relationship of this stress and the peptic ulceration is suggested, with gastrin as the mediator.", "contents": "Fatal bleeding from gastric ulceration during first day of life--possible association with social stress. Death from haemorrhage is described in a 21-hour-old baby boy with acute gastric ulceration. Particular note is made of the very high level of psychosocial maternal stress during the last trimester of pregnancy. A causal relationship of this stress and the peptic ulceration is suggested, with gastrin as the mediator.", "PMID": 434894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2386", "title": "Phenothiazine-induced dystonia associated with an increase in serum creatine phosphokinase.", "content": "A transient but considerable rise in serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels occurred in six boys aged between 8 and 11 years and suffering from phenothiazine-induced dystonia. In one boy (Case 4), after the CPK level had returned to normal after withdrawal of the drug, its reintroduction orally at lower dosage caused a slight increase in the level of CPK in the absence of any recurrence of the dystonia.", "contents": "Phenothiazine-induced dystonia associated with an increase in serum creatine phosphokinase. A transient but considerable rise in serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels occurred in six boys aged between 8 and 11 years and suffering from phenothiazine-induced dystonia. In one boy (Case 4), after the CPK level had returned to normal after withdrawal of the drug, its reintroduction orally at lower dosage caused a slight increase in the level of CPK in the absence of any recurrence of the dystonia.", "PMID": 434895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2387", "title": "Striatal degeneration in childhood.", "content": "The clinical features, and the radiological and neuropathological findings of 3 unrelated children with striatal degeneration are presented. In one case the father had recently developed choreiform movements while in the other two the family history was negative for neurological disorders. Two patients had juvenile onset of psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and rigidity. The 3rd child presented with focal seizures at 9 weeks of age. The neuropathological findings are virtually identical in all 3 cases. The classification of striatal degeneration in childhood is discussed.", "contents": "Striatal degeneration in childhood. The clinical features, and the radiological and neuropathological findings of 3 unrelated children with striatal degeneration are presented. In one case the father had recently developed choreiform movements while in the other two the family history was negative for neurological disorders. Two patients had juvenile onset of psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and rigidity. The 3rd child presented with focal seizures at 9 weeks of age. The neuropathological findings are virtually identical in all 3 cases. The classification of striatal degeneration in childhood is discussed.", "PMID": 434899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2388", "title": "Results of a regional cord blood screening programme for detecting neonatal hypothyroidism.", "content": "Our regional cord blood screening programme for detecting neonatal hypothyroidism using initial cord blood thyroxine (T4) determinations, with supplemental thyrotropin (TSH), and triiodothyronine resin uptake (T3U) measurements, gave an incidence of thyroid abnormalities of 1/3000 births, with 1/5000 infants having severe primary hypothyroidism. No hypothyroid infant detected in the programme had been suspected clinically before the screening and, in retrospect, only a few babies had any signs of hypothyroidism. Supplemental TSH and T3U determinations were required on 8-12% of the population screened initially with a T4 test to avoid missing affected cases. With an initial T4 and supplementary TSH and T3U testing on cord blood serum, recalls to exclude primary hypothyroidism were reduced to 0.16% of the screened population. The incidence of abnormalities detected in this cord blood screening programme was comparable with that reported by others using neonatal dried blood screening methods, indicating that cord blood screening can be effective provided the appropriate recall criteria and transport conditions are used. Nevertheless, for several practical reasons, neonatal dried blood methods are recommended as the screening test of choice for surveying large populations over extensive geographical areas.", "contents": "Results of a regional cord blood screening programme for detecting neonatal hypothyroidism. Our regional cord blood screening programme for detecting neonatal hypothyroidism using initial cord blood thyroxine (T4) determinations, with supplemental thyrotropin (TSH), and triiodothyronine resin uptake (T3U) measurements, gave an incidence of thyroid abnormalities of 1/3000 births, with 1/5000 infants having severe primary hypothyroidism. No hypothyroid infant detected in the programme had been suspected clinically before the screening and, in retrospect, only a few babies had any signs of hypothyroidism. Supplemental TSH and T3U determinations were required on 8-12% of the population screened initially with a T4 test to avoid missing affected cases. With an initial T4 and supplementary TSH and T3U testing on cord blood serum, recalls to exclude primary hypothyroidism were reduced to 0.16% of the screened population. The incidence of abnormalities detected in this cord blood screening programme was comparable with that reported by others using neonatal dried blood screening methods, indicating that cord blood screening can be effective provided the appropriate recall criteria and transport conditions are used. Nevertheless, for several practical reasons, neonatal dried blood methods are recommended as the screening test of choice for surveying large populations over extensive geographical areas.", "PMID": 434901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2389", "title": "Response of term babies to a warm environment.", "content": "The response of healthy term babies to warm environments was assessed by placing them naked in incubators and increasing the air temperature in steps until either sweating occurred or the rectal temperature reached 37.9 degrees C. The rate of evaporation of water from the skin was measured by a method based on the estimation of vapour pressure gradient. When a 50% increase in the rate occurred at a given site, sweating was judged to have begun. 39 studies were made on 30 babies, aged from 4 hours to 11 days. As babies approached the point of sweating, spontaneous activity usually ceased, the skin reddened, and a sunbathing posture was adopted. Sweating was found on 35 occasions. It was most pronounced and often was found initially on the forehead but it was also detected on the trunk and limbs. No thermal sweating was noted on the palms or soles. Sweating generally began when the incubator air temperature exceeded 34 degrees C and the rectal temperature exceeded 37.1 degrees C, but there was wide individual variation. Older and more mature babies tended to sweat at lower air temperatures.", "contents": "Response of term babies to a warm environment. The response of healthy term babies to warm environments was assessed by placing them naked in incubators and increasing the air temperature in steps until either sweating occurred or the rectal temperature reached 37.9 degrees C. The rate of evaporation of water from the skin was measured by a method based on the estimation of vapour pressure gradient. When a 50% increase in the rate occurred at a given site, sweating was judged to have begun. 39 studies were made on 30 babies, aged from 4 hours to 11 days. As babies approached the point of sweating, spontaneous activity usually ceased, the skin reddened, and a sunbathing posture was adopted. Sweating was found on 35 occasions. It was most pronounced and often was found initially on the forehead but it was also detected on the trunk and limbs. No thermal sweating was noted on the palms or soles. Sweating generally began when the incubator air temperature exceeded 34 degrees C and the rectal temperature exceeded 37.1 degrees C, but there was wide individual variation. Older and more mature babies tended to sweat at lower air temperatures.", "PMID": 434902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2390", "title": "Clinical evaluation and comparison of the Infrasonde, Arteriosonde, and mercury sphygmomanometer in measurement of blood pressure in children.", "content": "Both systolic and diastolic pressures can be measured in children with the mercury sphygmomanometer, the Arteriosonde and the Infrasonde. Estimates made blindly with these instruments were compared with directly measured intra-arterial blood pressures in 50 children aged between 4 days and 14 years. Systolic and diastolic estimates with the three techniques showed highly significant correlations with simultaneous intra-arterial measurements (P less than 0.001). The Infrasonde diastolic estimates were least satisfactory and the slope of the regression line against the intra-arterial pressure differed significantly from unity (y=0.54x+29.53). In 11 small children a satisfactory diastolic estimate could not be obtained with the mercury sphygmomanometer. While the mercury sphygmomanometer should remain the standard hospital equipment, an Arteriosonde would be valuable if it is difficult to hear Korotkoff's sounds on auscultation and if a diastolic pressure is required. For research investigations into childhood blood pressure an Arteriosonde or mercury sphygmomanometer, coupled with a device to exclude observer bias, is probably most suitable. Although the Infrasonde is not sufficiently accurate for research purposes, it is acceptable for routine ward use.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation and comparison of the Infrasonde, Arteriosonde, and mercury sphygmomanometer in measurement of blood pressure in children. Both systolic and diastolic pressures can be measured in children with the mercury sphygmomanometer, the Arteriosonde and the Infrasonde. Estimates made blindly with these instruments were compared with directly measured intra-arterial blood pressures in 50 children aged between 4 days and 14 years. Systolic and diastolic estimates with the three techniques showed highly significant correlations with simultaneous intra-arterial measurements (P less than 0.001). The Infrasonde diastolic estimates were least satisfactory and the slope of the regression line against the intra-arterial pressure differed significantly from unity (y=0.54x+29.53). In 11 small children a satisfactory diastolic estimate could not be obtained with the mercury sphygmomanometer. While the mercury sphygmomanometer should remain the standard hospital equipment, an Arteriosonde would be valuable if it is difficult to hear Korotkoff's sounds on auscultation and if a diastolic pressure is required. For research investigations into childhood blood pressure an Arteriosonde or mercury sphygmomanometer, coupled with a device to exclude observer bias, is probably most suitable. Although the Infrasonde is not sufficiently accurate for research purposes, it is acceptable for routine ward use.", "PMID": 434903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2391", "title": "Dosage schedule for intravenous aminophylline in apnoea of prematurity, based on pharmacokinetic studies.", "content": "15 preterm infants were treated for recurrent apnoea with theophylline. 5 were given oral choline theophyllinate, but this was erratically absorbed. 14 were given IV aminophylline on 23 occasions. Apparent volume of distribution of theophylline in 12 infants was 0.71 +/- 0.18 1/kg (mean +/- SD). Plasma clearance rate measured in 11 infants at steady state was 18.6 +/- 4.8 ml/kg per hour. Calculations show that a loading dose of 6.2 mg/kg aminophylline intravenously and maintenance of 4.4 mg/kg per day would produce serum levels of between 6 and 12 mg/l in all but one of the infants studied, with no infant having toxic levels.", "contents": "Dosage schedule for intravenous aminophylline in apnoea of prematurity, based on pharmacokinetic studies. 15 preterm infants were treated for recurrent apnoea with theophylline. 5 were given oral choline theophyllinate, but this was erratically absorbed. 14 were given IV aminophylline on 23 occasions. Apparent volume of distribution of theophylline in 12 infants was 0.71 +/- 0.18 1/kg (mean +/- SD). Plasma clearance rate measured in 11 infants at steady state was 18.6 +/- 4.8 ml/kg per hour. Calculations show that a loading dose of 6.2 mg/kg aminophylline intravenously and maintenance of 4.4 mg/kg per day would produce serum levels of between 6 and 12 mg/l in all but one of the infants studied, with no infant having toxic levels.", "PMID": 434904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2392", "title": "Plasma xanthine levels in low birthweight infants treated or not treated with theophylline.", "content": "The use of theophylline in the management of apnoea in the newborn was studied in 33 preterm infants. Infants received a dose of 3 mg/kg, 13 of them every six hours, the remaining 20 every eight hours. All the infants had significantly fewer apnoeic episodes. In a pharmacokinetic study, the half life of theophylline was 30.3 +/- 7.2 hours and the clearance rate was 23.9 +/- 5.06 ml/kg per hour (means and SD). The plasma theophylline level remained constant at between 13 and 15 mg/l from the 5th day of treatment but, at the same time, the plasma levels of caffeine rose to a mean level of 4.4 mg/l. Caffeine was detectable in plasma at birth, and in preterm infants not receiving theophylline; plasma levels of caffeine tended to be similar to the levels in their mothers' milk. These observations have led to clear conclusions on the optimum timing and dosage of theophylline, and on the need to monitor plasma levels of both theophylline and caffeine in newborn infants treated with theophylline.", "contents": "Plasma xanthine levels in low birthweight infants treated or not treated with theophylline. The use of theophylline in the management of apnoea in the newborn was studied in 33 preterm infants. Infants received a dose of 3 mg/kg, 13 of them every six hours, the remaining 20 every eight hours. All the infants had significantly fewer apnoeic episodes. In a pharmacokinetic study, the half life of theophylline was 30.3 +/- 7.2 hours and the clearance rate was 23.9 +/- 5.06 ml/kg per hour (means and SD). The plasma theophylline level remained constant at between 13 and 15 mg/l from the 5th day of treatment but, at the same time, the plasma levels of caffeine rose to a mean level of 4.4 mg/l. Caffeine was detectable in plasma at birth, and in preterm infants not receiving theophylline; plasma levels of caffeine tended to be similar to the levels in their mothers' milk. These observations have led to clear conclusions on the optimum timing and dosage of theophylline, and on the need to monitor plasma levels of both theophylline and caffeine in newborn infants treated with theophylline.", "PMID": 434905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2393", "title": "Medulloblastoma--a changing prognosis?", "content": "87 of 90 consecutive cases of medulloblastoma diagnosed at The Hospital for Sick Children, London, in the 10-year period 1965-74 were followed-up until death or until 1 January 1978. Only one patient survived in the 1st 5-year period and is a cure. In the 2nd 5-year period 17 (41%) of 41 patients presenting are alive and, of these, 11 are 5-year survivors (=39% of possible 5-year survivors). Reasons for this improvement are discussed; it is thought likely that the main contribution is improved radiotherapeutic techniques.", "contents": "Medulloblastoma--a changing prognosis? 87 of 90 consecutive cases of medulloblastoma diagnosed at The Hospital for Sick Children, London, in the 10-year period 1965-74 were followed-up until death or until 1 January 1978. Only one patient survived in the 1st 5-year period and is a cure. In the 2nd 5-year period 17 (41%) of 41 patients presenting are alive and, of these, 11 are 5-year survivors (=39% of possible 5-year survivors). Reasons for this improvement are discussed; it is thought likely that the main contribution is improved radiotherapeutic techniques.", "PMID": 434906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2394", "title": "Serum gastrin levels in hypertrophic pyloric stenosis of infancy. Response to a gastrin secretion test.", "content": "The aim of this study was to look for a difference in fasting serum gastrin levels or in serum gastrin response to oral feeding between infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis and normal controls. Fasting serum gastrin levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in 10 patients with pyloric stenosis, before pyloromyotomy and 7 and 15 days after it, and in 11 controls. In addition, the serum gastrin responses to a casein hydrolysate meal were studied in both groups (in the patients, 7 days after operation). The fasting serum gastrin levels in the patients did not differ from those in the controls before operation, but they did so after it. The serum gastrin response to feeding in patients after pyloromyotomy was no greater than in controls.", "contents": "Serum gastrin levels in hypertrophic pyloric stenosis of infancy. Response to a gastrin secretion test. The aim of this study was to look for a difference in fasting serum gastrin levels or in serum gastrin response to oral feeding between infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis and normal controls. Fasting serum gastrin levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in 10 patients with pyloric stenosis, before pyloromyotomy and 7 and 15 days after it, and in 11 controls. In addition, the serum gastrin responses to a casein hydrolysate meal were studied in both groups (in the patients, 7 days after operation). The fasting serum gastrin levels in the patients did not differ from those in the controls before operation, but they did so after it. The serum gastrin response to feeding in patients after pyloromyotomy was no greater than in controls.", "PMID": 434907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2395", "title": "Lysozyme in the tears of newborn babies.", "content": "Tear lysozyme concentration was measured in term, preterm, and small-for-dates infants using a modification of the lysoplate technique. The lysozyme concentration was greater in the term infant than in preterm and small-for-dates infants. The values were found to increase with birthweight and gestation to a term value which is similar to that described in adults. There was no relationship between the lysozyme concentration and the rate of tear production.", "contents": "Lysozyme in the tears of newborn babies. Tear lysozyme concentration was measured in term, preterm, and small-for-dates infants using a modification of the lysoplate technique. The lysozyme concentration was greater in the term infant than in preterm and small-for-dates infants. The values were found to increase with birthweight and gestation to a term value which is similar to that described in adults. There was no relationship between the lysozyme concentration and the rate of tear production.", "PMID": 434908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2396", "title": "Lomotil poisoning in children.", "content": "45 children were admitted to hospital after ingesting varying quantities of diphenoxylate (Lomotil). One died and 44 recovered without any sequelae. Four patients were comatose, 32 were drowsy, and 9 suffered respiratory depression. No correlation was found between ingested dose and the severity of symptoms. Because of its action in rendering the gut atonic, removal of diphenoxylate by gastric lavage is mandatory, even in patients admitted at least 24 hours after drug ingestion. Naloxone is the narcotic antagonist of choice, and should be used in all cases where suspected diphenoxylate poisoning leads to respiratory depression or coma. The use of Lomotil as an antidiarrhoeal agent in children is difficult to justify.", "contents": "Lomotil poisoning in children. 45 children were admitted to hospital after ingesting varying quantities of diphenoxylate (Lomotil). One died and 44 recovered without any sequelae. Four patients were comatose, 32 were drowsy, and 9 suffered respiratory depression. No correlation was found between ingested dose and the severity of symptoms. Because of its action in rendering the gut atonic, removal of diphenoxylate by gastric lavage is mandatory, even in patients admitted at least 24 hours after drug ingestion. Naloxone is the narcotic antagonist of choice, and should be used in all cases where suspected diphenoxylate poisoning leads to respiratory depression or coma. The use of Lomotil as an antidiarrhoeal agent in children is difficult to justify.", "PMID": 434909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2397", "title": "Foot length--a new and potentially useful measurement in the neonate.", "content": "The foot length, occipito-frontal head circumference (OFC), crown-rump, and crown-heel length (CHL) of 123 neonates of gestational ages 26-42 weeks, were measured between 12 hours and 5 days. A gauge, designed and constructed at St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, was used to measure foot length. In term babies (37-42 weeks) who were of weights appropriate for gestational age (AGA) the scatter about the mean of foot length measurements was small (coefficient of variation = 4.5%) compared with birthweight (coefficient of variation = 12.0%). The wide range of foot length measurements in babies of different gestational ages prevented maturity being accurately estimated. The mean birthweight of term light-for-dates (LFD) babies was 30.9% lower than term AGA babies, whereas the mean foot length, OFC, and body length of LFD babies was reduced by only 4.2-8.8%. There was a positive linear correlation between foot length and other indices of body size in LFD and AGA babies of all gestational ages. However, in premature babies (less than 37 weeks) the correlation between foot length and birthweight (r = 0.95) and foot length and CHL (r = 0.96) was pronounced. The 95% confidence limits of the regression lines were +/- 327 g and +/- 2.3 cm respectively. Birthweight and CHL of premature babies can therefore be estimated from a measurement of foot length that is performed simply and rapidly. Measurements of foot length are valuable in premature babies who are too ill at birth for conventional anthropometric measurements to be made, and in whom such measurements cannot be carried out subsequently because of the encumbrance of the incubator and intensive care apparatus. Drug dosages and intravenous fluid requirements based on body weight or surface area can be indirectly calculated from a measurement of foot length.", "contents": "Foot length--a new and potentially useful measurement in the neonate. The foot length, occipito-frontal head circumference (OFC), crown-rump, and crown-heel length (CHL) of 123 neonates of gestational ages 26-42 weeks, were measured between 12 hours and 5 days. A gauge, designed and constructed at St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, was used to measure foot length. In term babies (37-42 weeks) who were of weights appropriate for gestational age (AGA) the scatter about the mean of foot length measurements was small (coefficient of variation = 4.5%) compared with birthweight (coefficient of variation = 12.0%). The wide range of foot length measurements in babies of different gestational ages prevented maturity being accurately estimated. The mean birthweight of term light-for-dates (LFD) babies was 30.9% lower than term AGA babies, whereas the mean foot length, OFC, and body length of LFD babies was reduced by only 4.2-8.8%. There was a positive linear correlation between foot length and other indices of body size in LFD and AGA babies of all gestational ages. However, in premature babies (less than 37 weeks) the correlation between foot length and birthweight (r = 0.95) and foot length and CHL (r = 0.96) was pronounced. The 95% confidence limits of the regression lines were +/- 327 g and +/- 2.3 cm respectively. Birthweight and CHL of premature babies can therefore be estimated from a measurement of foot length that is performed simply and rapidly. Measurements of foot length are valuable in premature babies who are too ill at birth for conventional anthropometric measurements to be made, and in whom such measurements cannot be carried out subsequently because of the encumbrance of the incubator and intensive care apparatus. Drug dosages and intravenous fluid requirements based on body weight or surface area can be indirectly calculated from a measurement of foot length.", "PMID": 434910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2398", "title": "Mycoplasma hominis. A cause of neonatal meningitis.", "content": "Two cases of Mycoplasma hominis meningitis in the newborn are described. These infants demonstrate the need to consider M. hominis as a cause of neonatal meningitis, especially if the Gram stain is negative, conventional cultures yield no growth, and there is a history of maternal infection. CSF cultures on appropriate medium can quickly confirm the diagnosis.", "contents": "Mycoplasma hominis. A cause of neonatal meningitis. Two cases of Mycoplasma hominis meningitis in the newborn are described. These infants demonstrate the need to consider M. hominis as a cause of neonatal meningitis, especially if the Gram stain is negative, conventional cultures yield no growth, and there is a history of maternal infection. CSF cultures on appropriate medium can quickly confirm the diagnosis.", "PMID": 434911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2399", "title": "Cefuroxime plasma and CSF levels in children with meningitis.", "content": "Cefuroxime (25 mg/kg) given intravenously every four hours to 7 children with bacterial meningitis resulted in satisfactory therapeutic blood and CSF levels. All children made a full recovery and side effects were absent.", "contents": "Cefuroxime plasma and CSF levels in children with meningitis. Cefuroxime (25 mg/kg) given intravenously every four hours to 7 children with bacterial meningitis resulted in satisfactory therapeutic blood and CSF levels. All children made a full recovery and side effects were absent.", "PMID": 434912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2400", "title": "Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism with extrapyramidal and myopathic features.", "content": "A case of idiopathic hypoparathyroidism and basal ganglia calcification with extrapyramidal motor and myopathic features is described. The extrapyramidal motor and myopathic features disappeared when normocalcaemia was restored with treatment, suggesting that they resulted from hypocalcaemia.", "contents": "Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism with extrapyramidal and myopathic features. A case of idiopathic hypoparathyroidism and basal ganglia calcification with extrapyramidal motor and myopathic features is described. The extrapyramidal motor and myopathic features disappeared when normocalcaemia was restored with treatment, suggesting that they resulted from hypocalcaemia.", "PMID": 434913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2401", "title": "Half life of theophylline in the preterm baby with apnoeic attacks.", "content": "Plasma theophylline levels were measured by an enzyme immunoassay method in 6 preterm babies. The method gave accurate and rapid results. The study showed a considerably prolonged half life of an oral preparation.", "contents": "Half life of theophylline in the preterm baby with apnoeic attacks. Plasma theophylline levels were measured by an enzyme immunoassay method in 6 preterm babies. The method gave accurate and rapid results. The study showed a considerably prolonged half life of an oral preparation.", "PMID": 434914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2402", "title": "Ultrastructural changes of the rabbit lung after a 5 ppm nitric oxide exposure.", "content": "Four male rabbits were continuously exposed to 5 ppm nitric oxide for 14 days. Four rabbits served as controls. Specimens from pulmonary arterioles and alveolar tissue were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The most conspicuous findings were fluid-containing vacuoles inside the arteriolar endothelial cells and/or in the intercellular junctions. Thickening of the alveolo-capillary membrane due to accumulation of edema fluid in the interstitial space was also observed.", "contents": "Ultrastructural changes of the rabbit lung after a 5 ppm nitric oxide exposure. Four male rabbits were continuously exposed to 5 ppm nitric oxide for 14 days. Four rabbits served as controls. Specimens from pulmonary arterioles and alveolar tissue were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The most conspicuous findings were fluid-containing vacuoles inside the arteriolar endothelial cells and/or in the intercellular junctions. Thickening of the alveolo-capillary membrane due to accumulation of edema fluid in the interstitial space was also observed.", "PMID": 434920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2403", "title": "Inner-city housing and respiratory disease in children: a pilot study.", "content": "This cross-sectional pilot study, designed to examine problems and methodology of studies on the relationship of housing and health, focused on respiratory disease in inner-city black children in Baltimore. Public housing was contrasted to the older row private housing. History of illness, familial, and demographic characteristics were obtained by questionnaire, and a small subsample of children received physical examinations. The condition of the indoor environment was evaluated and measurements of indoor temperature, volume, relative humidity, and carbon monoxide were made. Children in public housing had higher illness rates than those in private housing. Evidence of self-selection into housing type was found. Carbon monoxide levels were found to be greater inside than outside the homes. Preliminary analysis suggests public housing-private-housing classification is less important than other variables, including socioeconomic variables.", "contents": "Inner-city housing and respiratory disease in children: a pilot study. This cross-sectional pilot study, designed to examine problems and methodology of studies on the relationship of housing and health, focused on respiratory disease in inner-city black children in Baltimore. Public housing was contrasted to the older row private housing. History of illness, familial, and demographic characteristics were obtained by questionnaire, and a small subsample of children received physical examinations. The condition of the indoor environment was evaluated and measurements of indoor temperature, volume, relative humidity, and carbon monoxide were made. Children in public housing had higher illness rates than those in private housing. Evidence of self-selection into housing type was found. Carbon monoxide levels were found to be greater inside than outside the homes. Preliminary analysis suggests public housing-private-housing classification is less important than other variables, including socioeconomic variables.", "PMID": 434922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2404", "title": "Cancer risks associated with employment in the leather and leather products industry.", "content": "A recent study of relationships between occupation and cancer at Roswell Memorial Institute, Buffalo, New York, identified significantly high risks of bladder among men and women with a history of employment in plants manufacturing leather and leather products. Among males, the relative risk increased with duration of employment and remained elevated after adjustment for smoking habits. Among male leatherworkers, significantly increased risks were seen for cancers of the buccal cavity and pharynx and larynx that could not be explained by differences in smoking habits. Malignant lymphomas were also associated with elevated risks among men and women who had worked in the leather industry. Review of processes and agents found in leather manufacture reveals several areas with exposure to potentially carcinogenic materials, including azo and other synthetic dyes that have induced cancer in laboratory animals. Further studies of person employed in the leathermaking and fabrication industries seem advisable to characterize the nature of exposure-response relationships.", "contents": "Cancer risks associated with employment in the leather and leather products industry. A recent study of relationships between occupation and cancer at Roswell Memorial Institute, Buffalo, New York, identified significantly high risks of bladder among men and women with a history of employment in plants manufacturing leather and leather products. Among males, the relative risk increased with duration of employment and remained elevated after adjustment for smoking habits. Among male leatherworkers, significantly increased risks were seen for cancers of the buccal cavity and pharynx and larynx that could not be explained by differences in smoking habits. Malignant lymphomas were also associated with elevated risks among men and women who had worked in the leather industry. Review of processes and agents found in leather manufacture reveals several areas with exposure to potentially carcinogenic materials, including azo and other synthetic dyes that have induced cancer in laboratory animals. Further studies of person employed in the leathermaking and fabrication industries seem advisable to characterize the nature of exposure-response relationships.", "PMID": 434924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2405", "title": "Effects of low levels of carbon monoxide on visions of smokers and nonsmokers.", "content": "The scotopic sensitivity, reaction time, eye movements, and visually evoked cortical potentials of 12 nonsmokers and 6 smokers were measured during the course of 3 hr of exposure both to air and to 200 ppm CO in air. No significant degradation in performance was observed for any of these measures in either group during the course of the exposure.", "contents": "Effects of low levels of carbon monoxide on visions of smokers and nonsmokers. The scotopic sensitivity, reaction time, eye movements, and visually evoked cortical potentials of 12 nonsmokers and 6 smokers were measured during the course of 3 hr of exposure both to air and to 200 ppm CO in air. No significant degradation in performance was observed for any of these measures in either group during the course of the exposure.", "PMID": 434925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2406", "title": "Effect of tobacco smoke on the metabolism of rat lung.", "content": "The authors have studied the effect of cigarette smoke on the uptake and metabolism of 3H-palmitate, 3H-leucine, U14C-glucose and 14C-glucosamine utilizing slices of rat lung. The rats were exposed daily for 30 days to University of Kentucky research cigarettes (brands 1A1 or 1R1) in the Walton smoking machine. One group of rats served as intact controls and another were introduced into the machine, but were not exposed to smoke. All animals were weight-matched at the beginning of the experiment (180 +/- 5 g); machine control rats gained 25% less weight, 1A1-exposed rats 40%; and 1R1-exposed rats 26-40% less than controls. Exposure to tobacco smoke had no effect on palmitate uptake and synthesis of phospholipids; exposure to 1A1 cigarettes caused a 25% increase in 14CO2 production and a 30% higher incorporation of glucose into lipids. Exposure to 1R1 cigarettes had no effect on glucose metabolism. Protein synthesis was 30% lower in 1R1-exposed rats and glycoprotein synthesis increased two-fold in both 1A1 and 1R1 exposed rats.", "contents": "Effect of tobacco smoke on the metabolism of rat lung. The authors have studied the effect of cigarette smoke on the uptake and metabolism of 3H-palmitate, 3H-leucine, U14C-glucose and 14C-glucosamine utilizing slices of rat lung. The rats were exposed daily for 30 days to University of Kentucky research cigarettes (brands 1A1 or 1R1) in the Walton smoking machine. One group of rats served as intact controls and another were introduced into the machine, but were not exposed to smoke. All animals were weight-matched at the beginning of the experiment (180 +/- 5 g); machine control rats gained 25% less weight, 1A1-exposed rats 40%; and 1R1-exposed rats 26-40% less than controls. Exposure to tobacco smoke had no effect on palmitate uptake and synthesis of phospholipids; exposure to 1A1 cigarettes caused a 25% increase in 14CO2 production and a 30% higher incorporation of glucose into lipids. Exposure to 1R1 cigarettes had no effect on glucose metabolism. Protein synthesis was 30% lower in 1R1-exposed rats and glycoprotein synthesis increased two-fold in both 1A1 and 1R1 exposed rats.", "PMID": 434921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2407", "title": "Effects of cigarette smoke residue on rabbit tracheal epithelium in organ culture.", "content": "The effects of tobacco cigarette smoke residues on rings of rabbit tracheal epithelium in organ culture were examined. Residue from cigarette smoke was collected through continuous suction and the residue from one cigarette was used for each two tracheal rings. Epithelium exposed to residue showed cellular desquamation, initially of only scattered columnar cells. As exposure time increased the entire columnar cell layer was lost, resulting in exposure of basal cells to residue. Columnar cell loss occurred through breakdown of intercellular junctions. Alteration was also observed in columnar cell mitochondria, cilia, and microvilli. Loss of columnar cells and subsequent exposure of basal cells to tobacco smoke residue may account for the hyperplasia and metaplasia observed by other investigators after long-term in vivo exposure of tracheal epithelium to cigarette smoke.", "contents": "Effects of cigarette smoke residue on rabbit tracheal epithelium in organ culture. The effects of tobacco cigarette smoke residues on rings of rabbit tracheal epithelium in organ culture were examined. Residue from cigarette smoke was collected through continuous suction and the residue from one cigarette was used for each two tracheal rings. Epithelium exposed to residue showed cellular desquamation, initially of only scattered columnar cells. As exposure time increased the entire columnar cell layer was lost, resulting in exposure of basal cells to residue. Columnar cell loss occurred through breakdown of intercellular junctions. Alteration was also observed in columnar cell mitochondria, cilia, and microvilli. Loss of columnar cells and subsequent exposure of basal cells to tobacco smoke residue may account for the hyperplasia and metaplasia observed by other investigators after long-term in vivo exposure of tracheal epithelium to cigarette smoke.", "PMID": 434927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2408", "title": "Influence of sex and dietary calcium on intestinal cadmium absorption in rats.", "content": "The influence of sex and dietary calcium on whole-body retention of orally administered 115mCdCl2 has a half-life of 43 days, distinguishing it from 115Cd of half-life 2.3 days was studied in one-year-old control and gonadectomized male and female rats. Gonadectomy was performed at the age of four months. Each of the four experimental groups was divided into three subgroups that were fed rat food with a different calcium content (2.4, 0.7, and 0.3% Ca) throughout the experiment. Regardless of sex and gonadectomy the mean percent values of 115mCd retention in the whole body decreased with increasing dietary calcium level. Male rats retained less cadmium than all other experimental groups of animals. These data clearly point out that sex and diet might influence the level of ingested cadmium in the body.", "contents": "Influence of sex and dietary calcium on intestinal cadmium absorption in rats. The influence of sex and dietary calcium on whole-body retention of orally administered 115mCdCl2 has a half-life of 43 days, distinguishing it from 115Cd of half-life 2.3 days was studied in one-year-old control and gonadectomized male and female rats. Gonadectomy was performed at the age of four months. Each of the four experimental groups was divided into three subgroups that were fed rat food with a different calcium content (2.4, 0.7, and 0.3% Ca) throughout the experiment. Regardless of sex and gonadectomy the mean percent values of 115mCd retention in the whole body decreased with increasing dietary calcium level. Male rats retained less cadmium than all other experimental groups of animals. These data clearly point out that sex and diet might influence the level of ingested cadmium in the body.", "PMID": 434923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2409", "title": "Changes in the blood count of growing rats irradiated with a microwave pulse field.", "content": "A group of 20 male rats of mean initial body weight of 65.53 g were irradiated for 7 wk (5 days per wk, 4 hr per day) with an electromagnetic pulse field of the following parameters: working frequency 2,736.5 MHz; repeated frequency 395 Hz; pulse width 2.6 musec; vertical polarization; mean power density 24.4 mW/cm2; accuracy of measuring +/- 6%. The rectal temperature of experimental animals increased during irradiation by a maximum of 0.5 degrees C. Blood was taken before irradiation, at the end of the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th wk of irradiation, and at the end of the 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 10th wk after irradiation was completed. The parameters under study included the hematocrit value; number of leukocyte differential count in both absolute and relative proportions; activity of alkaline phosphatase in neutrophil leukocytes; and body weight increase. The results were compared with parallel data obtained from a control group of 20 animals and evaluated by Student's t test at a significance level of 1%. In the second half of the irradiation period the experimental animals exhibited significantly lower mean hematocrit values, lower numbers of leukocytes, and lower absolute numbers of lymphocytes. These changes disappeared gradually within 10 wk after completed irradiation. Activity of alkaline phosphatase in neutrophil leukocytes was significantly increased in the 1st wk of irradiation and dropped transiently after the irradiation. In the post-irradiation interval experimental animals displayed significant decline in rate of body weight increase. The level of the other examined parameters did not differ from the controls.", "contents": "Changes in the blood count of growing rats irradiated with a microwave pulse field. A group of 20 male rats of mean initial body weight of 65.53 g were irradiated for 7 wk (5 days per wk, 4 hr per day) with an electromagnetic pulse field of the following parameters: working frequency 2,736.5 MHz; repeated frequency 395 Hz; pulse width 2.6 musec; vertical polarization; mean power density 24.4 mW/cm2; accuracy of measuring +/- 6%. The rectal temperature of experimental animals increased during irradiation by a maximum of 0.5 degrees C. Blood was taken before irradiation, at the end of the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th wk of irradiation, and at the end of the 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 10th wk after irradiation was completed. The parameters under study included the hematocrit value; number of leukocyte differential count in both absolute and relative proportions; activity of alkaline phosphatase in neutrophil leukocytes; and body weight increase. The results were compared with parallel data obtained from a control group of 20 animals and evaluated by Student's t test at a significance level of 1%. In the second half of the irradiation period the experimental animals exhibited significantly lower mean hematocrit values, lower numbers of leukocytes, and lower absolute numbers of lymphocytes. These changes disappeared gradually within 10 wk after completed irradiation. Activity of alkaline phosphatase in neutrophil leukocytes was significantly increased in the 1st wk of irradiation and dropped transiently after the irradiation. In the post-irradiation interval experimental animals displayed significant decline in rate of body weight increase. The level of the other examined parameters did not differ from the controls.", "PMID": 434926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2410", "title": "Childhood lead poisoning: a re-evaluation.", "content": "Long recognized as an environmental toxin of fearsome lethality, lead effects are commonly described as extremely serious, particularly as regards the central nervous system. It is postulated here that this represents only part of the pathologic spectrum. Ohter lead-related conditions, as yet unrecognized, may include a wide range of central nervous system dysfunctions that although severe, are not so acutely dramatic or widely destructive as the classic encephalopathic or preencephalopathic states. These conditions remain etiologically unrecognized primarily because of (1) the variable nature of onset, (2) the variable nature of the manifestations, (3) the relative subtlety of the dysfunctions, and most importantly, (4) the absence of consistant, unequivocal evidence demonstrating the relationship of lower blood lead levels with pathologic effects. This last is seen as pivotal, and an extensive examination of the reasons for its absence is presented. It is postulated that biological variability, a concept widely used in medicine but rarely invoked in the researching of lead toxicity, is a crucial ingredient in lead research. It is further asserted that the grevious lack of etiologic recognition will continue until that factor is incorporated into research designs.", "contents": "Childhood lead poisoning: a re-evaluation. Long recognized as an environmental toxin of fearsome lethality, lead effects are commonly described as extremely serious, particularly as regards the central nervous system. It is postulated here that this represents only part of the pathologic spectrum. Ohter lead-related conditions, as yet unrecognized, may include a wide range of central nervous system dysfunctions that although severe, are not so acutely dramatic or widely destructive as the classic encephalopathic or preencephalopathic states. These conditions remain etiologically unrecognized primarily because of (1) the variable nature of onset, (2) the variable nature of the manifestations, (3) the relative subtlety of the dysfunctions, and most importantly, (4) the absence of consistant, unequivocal evidence demonstrating the relationship of lower blood lead levels with pathologic effects. This last is seen as pivotal, and an extensive examination of the reasons for its absence is presented. It is postulated that biological variability, a concept widely used in medicine but rarely invoked in the researching of lead toxicity, is a crucial ingredient in lead research. It is further asserted that the grevious lack of etiologic recognition will continue until that factor is incorporated into research designs.", "PMID": 434930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2411", "title": "Adaptations to ozone in reference to mucociliary clearance.", "content": "Adaptation to ozone in respiratory tract mucociliary clearance was investigated in this study. Eighty rats inhaled insoluble radioactively labeled particles in order to permit monitoring of clearance. The respiratory tract and the feces were counted for radioactivity at fixed intervals to determine clearance rates. A brief challenge to 1.2 ppm of ozone following particle deposition caused a substantial delay in rapid (mucociliary) clearance. This delay (or \"ozone effect\") however, was eliminated by brief pre-exposure to 0.8 ppm of ozone 3 days prior to deposition of particles. When a 13-day period intervened between the ozone pre-exposure and challenge, a substantial delay (or \"ozone effect\") was again seen. Thus, the pre-exposure to ozone appeared to afford essentially complete protection at 3 days, and no protection by 13 days.", "contents": "Adaptations to ozone in reference to mucociliary clearance. Adaptation to ozone in respiratory tract mucociliary clearance was investigated in this study. Eighty rats inhaled insoluble radioactively labeled particles in order to permit monitoring of clearance. The respiratory tract and the feces were counted for radioactivity at fixed intervals to determine clearance rates. A brief challenge to 1.2 ppm of ozone following particle deposition caused a substantial delay in rapid (mucociliary) clearance. This delay (or \"ozone effect\") however, was eliminated by brief pre-exposure to 0.8 ppm of ozone 3 days prior to deposition of particles. When a 13-day period intervened between the ozone pre-exposure and challenge, a substantial delay (or \"ozone effect\") was again seen. Thus, the pre-exposure to ozone appeared to afford essentially complete protection at 3 days, and no protection by 13 days.", "PMID": 434928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2412", "title": "Protective clothing as a means of reducing nicotine absorption in tobacco harvesters.", "content": "Green tobacco sickness is an occupational illness of tobacco illness of tobacco harvesters that is thought to be caused by dermal absorption of nicotine from contact with green tobacco leaf. Wearing of rubberized nylon rainsuits effectively prevented nicotine absorption in volunteers who picked wet tobacco. Nicotine absorption was demonstrated in workers who wore clothing that was not waterproof.", "contents": "Protective clothing as a means of reducing nicotine absorption in tobacco harvesters. Green tobacco sickness is an occupational illness of tobacco illness of tobacco harvesters that is thought to be caused by dermal absorption of nicotine from contact with green tobacco leaf. Wearing of rubberized nylon rainsuits effectively prevented nicotine absorption in volunteers who picked wet tobacco. Nicotine absorption was demonstrated in workers who wore clothing that was not waterproof.", "PMID": 434931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2413", "title": "Pulmonary function and health status of children in two cities of different air quality: a pilot study.", "content": "The present study was designed to examine the pulmonary function and health status of selected samples of young children in the two cities of different air qualities. There appears to be an overwhelmingly consistent trend for more respiratory-related symptoms in Grade One children from the Windsor core area than from the London core area. Not only was the trend, without exception, in favor of a greater prevalence for Windsor children, but some of the differences were statistically significant in spite of the small sample size (N = 100). Detailed analysis tends to preclude the size of family and history of respiratory illness in Windsor siblings and parents as the main reason for greater respiratory morbidity in their children.", "contents": "Pulmonary function and health status of children in two cities of different air quality: a pilot study. The present study was designed to examine the pulmonary function and health status of selected samples of young children in the two cities of different air qualities. There appears to be an overwhelmingly consistent trend for more respiratory-related symptoms in Grade One children from the Windsor core area than from the London core area. Not only was the trend, without exception, in favor of a greater prevalence for Windsor children, but some of the differences were statistically significant in spite of the small sample size (N = 100). Detailed analysis tends to preclude the size of family and history of respiratory illness in Windsor siblings and parents as the main reason for greater respiratory morbidity in their children.", "PMID": 434932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2414", "title": "A structure-activity relationship of some chlorinated hydrocarbons.", "content": "Partition coefficients of water/air, blood/air, oil/air, and oil/water for twenty chlorianted hydrocarbons, which were determined by means of a vial-equilibration method, were examined in relation to their chemical structures and threshold limit values (TLVs) recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The TLV was correlated closely with the blood/air partition coefficient and with the product of the water/air and the oil/air partition coefficient except for carbon tetrachloride and o-dichlorobenzene. A relation between partition coefficients and toxicity of these hydrocarbons is also described.", "contents": "A structure-activity relationship of some chlorinated hydrocarbons. Partition coefficients of water/air, blood/air, oil/air, and oil/water for twenty chlorianted hydrocarbons, which were determined by means of a vial-equilibration method, were examined in relation to their chemical structures and threshold limit values (TLVs) recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The TLV was correlated closely with the blood/air partition coefficient and with the product of the water/air and the oil/air partition coefficient except for carbon tetrachloride and o-dichlorobenzene. A relation between partition coefficients and toxicity of these hydrocarbons is also described.", "PMID": 434934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2415", "title": "Etiology of pleural calcification: a study of Quebec chrysotile asbestos miners and millers.", "content": "A review of 15,689 chest radiographs of Quebec chrysotile miners and millers, representing the latest film prior to November 1, 1966, for all such persons ever x-rayed, identified 206 men with pleural calcification. Of these, 198 had worked in the Thetford Mines area, 6 at Asbestos, and 2 at St. Remi de Tingwick; 2.5%, 0.08%, and 1% of the films from these areas, respectively. A series of case-control studies revealed that pleural calcification was concentrated in men employed at a small group of mines in Thetford Mines and occurred more often among miners and maintenance personnel than among millers. Calcification was not related to past history of illness or injury, place of residence, or employment in other industries. The distribution of pleural calcification in this Quebec industry suggests that it is related to some characteristic of airborne dust or mineral closely associated with the chrysotile that is encountered during mining in Thetford Mines but not in other mining areas. Possible minerals include mica, talc, and breunnerite.", "contents": "Etiology of pleural calcification: a study of Quebec chrysotile asbestos miners and millers. A review of 15,689 chest radiographs of Quebec chrysotile miners and millers, representing the latest film prior to November 1, 1966, for all such persons ever x-rayed, identified 206 men with pleural calcification. Of these, 198 had worked in the Thetford Mines area, 6 at Asbestos, and 2 at St. Remi de Tingwick; 2.5%, 0.08%, and 1% of the films from these areas, respectively. A series of case-control studies revealed that pleural calcification was concentrated in men employed at a small group of mines in Thetford Mines and occurred more often among miners and maintenance personnel than among millers. Calcification was not related to past history of illness or injury, place of residence, or employment in other industries. The distribution of pleural calcification in this Quebec industry suggests that it is related to some characteristic of airborne dust or mineral closely associated with the chrysotile that is encountered during mining in Thetford Mines but not in other mining areas. Possible minerals include mica, talc, and breunnerite.", "PMID": 434935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2416", "title": "Hypochlorhydria and hypergastrinaemia in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "In order to evaluate the incidence and aetiology of hypergastrinaemia 53 patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis were examined for gastric acid secretion, fasting serum gastrin concentration, circulating parietal cell antibodies, and some parameters of the activity of inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis. The basal and maximum acid output was found to be subnormal in this group (P less than 0.01), and in 11 of these patients (23%) the fasting serum gastrin levels were raised (P less than 0.05). This hypergastrinaemia correlated strongly with maximum acid output. Only in cases of achlorhydria or hypochlorhydria (maximum acid output less than 2 mmol/l) was the serum gastrin level markedly raised. Two out of 5 patients with achlorhydria were found to have circulating parietal cell antibodies, and 1 had decreased absorption of vitamin B12. No relationship was found between serum gastrin and duration or activity of rheumatoid arthritis; nor was there a relationship between basal serum gastrin and the various antirheumatic drugs administered.", "contents": "Hypochlorhydria and hypergastrinaemia in rheumatoid arthritis. In order to evaluate the incidence and aetiology of hypergastrinaemia 53 patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis were examined for gastric acid secretion, fasting serum gastrin concentration, circulating parietal cell antibodies, and some parameters of the activity of inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis. The basal and maximum acid output was found to be subnormal in this group (P less than 0.01), and in 11 of these patients (23%) the fasting serum gastrin levels were raised (P less than 0.05). This hypergastrinaemia correlated strongly with maximum acid output. Only in cases of achlorhydria or hypochlorhydria (maximum acid output less than 2 mmol/l) was the serum gastrin level markedly raised. Two out of 5 patients with achlorhydria were found to have circulating parietal cell antibodies, and 1 had decreased absorption of vitamin B12. No relationship was found between serum gastrin and duration or activity of rheumatoid arthritis; nor was there a relationship between basal serum gastrin and the various antirheumatic drugs administered.", "PMID": 434940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2417", "title": "Collagen breakdown and ammonia inhalation.", "content": "Measurement of several urinary metabolites of hydroxylysine indicates that considerable collagen degradation occurred in four individuals immediately after they had inhaled concentrated ammonia vapors. Since clinical and/or radiological evidence of intense upper respiratory and pulmonary inflammation were evident, it is likely that collagen degradation occurred at the level of the respiratory system.", "contents": "Collagen breakdown and ammonia inhalation. Measurement of several urinary metabolites of hydroxylysine indicates that considerable collagen degradation occurred in four individuals immediately after they had inhaled concentrated ammonia vapors. Since clinical and/or radiological evidence of intense upper respiratory and pulmonary inflammation were evident, it is likely that collagen degradation occurred at the level of the respiratory system.", "PMID": 434936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2418", "title": "Behavioral and neurological effects of symptomatic and asymptomatic lead exposure in children.", "content": "Forty-five children 4 to 8 yr of age who had been exposed to environmental lead were studied, consisting of an acute encephalopathy group and groups with short- and long-term exposure but without encephalopathy. Control children were matched for age, sex, race, and socioeconomic status with lead-exposed subjects, but lived in post-1945 housing and had negative neurological history and blood tests. The encephalopathy group had a significantly higher incidence of neurological deficits, retarded mental development, and higher hyperactivity than control subjects. Children with short- and long-term exposure short of encephalopathy were somewhat inferior to matched control subjects, but not to a statistically significant extent.", "contents": "Behavioral and neurological effects of symptomatic and asymptomatic lead exposure in children. Forty-five children 4 to 8 yr of age who had been exposed to environmental lead were studied, consisting of an acute encephalopathy group and groups with short- and long-term exposure but without encephalopathy. Control children were matched for age, sex, race, and socioeconomic status with lead-exposed subjects, but lived in post-1945 housing and had negative neurological history and blood tests. The encephalopathy group had a significantly higher incidence of neurological deficits, retarded mental development, and higher hyperactivity than control subjects. Children with short- and long-term exposure short of encephalopathy were somewhat inferior to matched control subjects, but not to a statistically significant extent.", "PMID": 434933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2419", "title": "Vertebral sclerosis in adults.", "content": "Narrowing of the intervertebral disc space with sclerosis of the adjacent vertebral bodies may occur as a consequence of infection, neoplasia, trauma, or rheumatic disease. Some patients have been described with backache and these radiological appearances without any primary cause being apparent. The lesions were almost always of 1 or, at most, 2 vertebrae and most frequently involved the inferior margin of L4. We describe 3 patients with far more extensive vertebral involvement and present the clinical, radiological, scintiscan, and histological findings. The only patient we have seen with the better known, isolated L4/5 lesion was shown on biopsy to have staphylococcal osteomyelitis. For this reason we would still recommend a biopsy of all such sclerotic vertebral lesions if they occur in the absence of other rheumatic disease.", "contents": "Vertebral sclerosis in adults. Narrowing of the intervertebral disc space with sclerosis of the adjacent vertebral bodies may occur as a consequence of infection, neoplasia, trauma, or rheumatic disease. Some patients have been described with backache and these radiological appearances without any primary cause being apparent. The lesions were almost always of 1 or, at most, 2 vertebrae and most frequently involved the inferior margin of L4. We describe 3 patients with far more extensive vertebral involvement and present the clinical, radiological, scintiscan, and histological findings. The only patient we have seen with the better known, isolated L4/5 lesion was shown on biopsy to have staphylococcal osteomyelitis. For this reason we would still recommend a biopsy of all such sclerotic vertebral lesions if they occur in the absence of other rheumatic disease.", "PMID": 434941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2420", "title": "Rheumatoid arthritis in Kenya. I. Clinical observations.", "content": "76 Kenyan Africans with classical or definite rheumatoid arthritis are described. Their age, sex ratio, and pattern of joint involvement closely resembled that seen in Europe and the USA and differed from that described in West Africa and rural South Africa. However, they showed a marked lack of systemic nonarticular complications, with relatively little functional incapacity. Radiological grading was carried out on 58 cases, and the changes were found to resemble more closely those seen in an English series than in a Nigerian series.", "contents": "Rheumatoid arthritis in Kenya. I. Clinical observations. 76 Kenyan Africans with classical or definite rheumatoid arthritis are described. Their age, sex ratio, and pattern of joint involvement closely resembled that seen in Europe and the USA and differed from that described in West Africa and rural South Africa. However, they showed a marked lack of systemic nonarticular complications, with relatively little functional incapacity. Radiological grading was carried out on 58 cases, and the changes were found to resemble more closely those seen in an English series than in a Nigerian series.", "PMID": 434942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2421", "title": "Viral hepatitis and hydraulic parameters: an alternative hypothesis.", "content": "Point source outbreaks of viral hepatitis have been associated with the consumption of contaminated food and water, yet epidemiologic analysis of the disease in the general population usually provides strong correlations with sub-standard socioeconomic conditions. However, statistical analysis of municipal public health records in Worcester, Massachusetts showed that significant correlations existed between the incidence of viral hepatitis and certain water and sewer parameters. A 5-yr period spanning the epidemic outbreak of 1969 to 1970 was analyzed. Significantly higher incidences of the disease occurred in those areas of the city served by old water and sewer pipes, combined sewers and the low pressure water distribution system. Based on this epidemiologic evidence, the authors propose that an alternate hypothesis, based on hydraulic arguments, can be made which will explain the observations. Although neither hypothesis, socioeconomic or hydraulic, can be excluded solely on the basis of epidemiologic results, this new hypothesis may prove useful in the design of methods for environmental control of viral hepatitis.", "contents": "Viral hepatitis and hydraulic parameters: an alternative hypothesis. Point source outbreaks of viral hepatitis have been associated with the consumption of contaminated food and water, yet epidemiologic analysis of the disease in the general population usually provides strong correlations with sub-standard socioeconomic conditions. However, statistical analysis of municipal public health records in Worcester, Massachusetts showed that significant correlations existed between the incidence of viral hepatitis and certain water and sewer parameters. A 5-yr period spanning the epidemic outbreak of 1969 to 1970 was analyzed. Significantly higher incidences of the disease occurred in those areas of the city served by old water and sewer pipes, combined sewers and the low pressure water distribution system. Based on this epidemiologic evidence, the authors propose that an alternate hypothesis, based on hydraulic arguments, can be made which will explain the observations. Although neither hypothesis, socioeconomic or hydraulic, can be excluded solely on the basis of epidemiologic results, this new hypothesis may prove useful in the design of methods for environmental control of viral hepatitis.", "PMID": 434937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2422", "title": "Cigarette smoke components and alveolar macrophage protein synthesis.", "content": "A comparison was made of the effects of acrolein and aqueous cigarette smoke extracts on amino acid incorporation into protein by rabbit pulmonary alveolar macrophages. Studies were on cells maintained in vitro as adherent monolayers. Freshly prepared acrolein inhibited amino acid incorporation by significant amounts after approximately 30 min and aqueous smoke extracts after approximately 15 min of incubation. Fifty percent inhibition by acrolein occurred with a dose of 5.5 microgram acrolein/ml, an amount four times that in the amount of aqueous smoke extract required for 50% inhibition according to previously reported findings. Analysis by a dual-isotope technique and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed the inhibitory effect of acrolein to be nonspecific, as had previously been found for aqueous smoke extracts. The presence of the sulfhydryl reagent cysteine, reduced the inhibitory effect of acrolein by 57.5%, but reduced inhibition induced by aqueous smoke extracts by only 12.2%. These results suggest the effects of acrolein are both quantitatively and qualitatively different than those of aqueous smoke extracts.", "contents": "Cigarette smoke components and alveolar macrophage protein synthesis. A comparison was made of the effects of acrolein and aqueous cigarette smoke extracts on amino acid incorporation into protein by rabbit pulmonary alveolar macrophages. Studies were on cells maintained in vitro as adherent monolayers. Freshly prepared acrolein inhibited amino acid incorporation by significant amounts after approximately 30 min and aqueous smoke extracts after approximately 15 min of incubation. Fifty percent inhibition by acrolein occurred with a dose of 5.5 microgram acrolein/ml, an amount four times that in the amount of aqueous smoke extract required for 50% inhibition according to previously reported findings. Analysis by a dual-isotope technique and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed the inhibitory effect of acrolein to be nonspecific, as had previously been found for aqueous smoke extracts. The presence of the sulfhydryl reagent cysteine, reduced the inhibitory effect of acrolein by 57.5%, but reduced inhibition induced by aqueous smoke extracts by only 12.2%. These results suggest the effects of acrolein are both quantitatively and qualitatively different than those of aqueous smoke extracts.", "PMID": 434939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2423", "title": "Monitoring exposure of brewery workers to CO2: a study of cellar workers and controls.", "content": "Carbon dioxide exposure of nineteen cellar workers and twenty nonexposed controls in a medium size brewery was assessed by determining base excess and standard bicarbonate of the plasma before work on Monday and after work on Monday and Friday. Standard bicarbonate averaged 0.6mEq/L higher in the cellar workers than the controls when samples taken at the same time were compared. This difference was not statistically significant. Standard bicarbonate and hemoglobin concentration declined significantly in both groups between Monday before work and Friday after work, suggesting that hemodilution had occurred. This may have been related to the comsumption of large amounts of beer or other fluid. The air breathed by three cellar workers was monitored continuously during working hours for one wk. Carbon dioxide concentrations varied widely, but yielded a time-weighted average of 1.08% carbon dioxide. The time-weighted average was inordinately difficult to establish under the working conditions in the brewery and was irrelevant with respect to acutely hazardous exposures.", "contents": "Monitoring exposure of brewery workers to CO2: a study of cellar workers and controls. Carbon dioxide exposure of nineteen cellar workers and twenty nonexposed controls in a medium size brewery was assessed by determining base excess and standard bicarbonate of the plasma before work on Monday and after work on Monday and Friday. Standard bicarbonate averaged 0.6mEq/L higher in the cellar workers than the controls when samples taken at the same time were compared. This difference was not statistically significant. Standard bicarbonate and hemoglobin concentration declined significantly in both groups between Monday before work and Friday after work, suggesting that hemodilution had occurred. This may have been related to the comsumption of large amounts of beer or other fluid. The air breathed by three cellar workers was monitored continuously during working hours for one wk. Carbon dioxide concentrations varied widely, but yielded a time-weighted average of 1.08% carbon dioxide. The time-weighted average was inordinately difficult to establish under the working conditions in the brewery and was irrelevant with respect to acutely hazardous exposures.", "PMID": 434938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2424", "title": "Rheumatoid arthritis in Kenya. II. Serological observations.", "content": "Sera from 48 Kenyan Africans with rheumatoid arthritis, 43 patients with other diseases, and 98 blood donors were tested for the presence of rheumatoid factor by latex fixation tests using human European, human African, and rabbit immunoglobulin, and a sheep cell haemagglutination test. In the patients with rheumatoid arthritis the frequency of rheumatoid factor was comparable to that reported in series from Europe and the USA, thus differing from the findings in West Africa. In the control patients and blood donors a high frequency of positive tests for rheumatoid factor was found; a similar result has been obtained from population studies in other African countries. Broadly similar results were obtained with each of the latex tests, and these were found to be less specific for rheumatoid arthritis than the sheep cell haemagglutination test.", "contents": "Rheumatoid arthritis in Kenya. II. Serological observations. Sera from 48 Kenyan Africans with rheumatoid arthritis, 43 patients with other diseases, and 98 blood donors were tested for the presence of rheumatoid factor by latex fixation tests using human European, human African, and rabbit immunoglobulin, and a sheep cell haemagglutination test. In the patients with rheumatoid arthritis the frequency of rheumatoid factor was comparable to that reported in series from Europe and the USA, thus differing from the findings in West Africa. In the control patients and blood donors a high frequency of positive tests for rheumatoid factor was found; a similar result has been obtained from population studies in other African countries. Broadly similar results were obtained with each of the latex tests, and these were found to be less specific for rheumatoid arthritis than the sheep cell haemagglutination test.", "PMID": 434943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2425", "title": "Mechanism and treatment of hypertriglyceridaemia in gout.", "content": "Using the Intralipid lipid tolerance test we could not demonstrate any direct effect of serum triglyceride on uric acid or any influence of hyperuricaemia on triglyceride removal. This result supports previous studies suggesting that hyperuricaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia are linked through the association of obesity and alcohol excess rather than a direct cause and effect mechanism. It was possible to demonstrate significant reductions of serum triglyceride in patients with gout by reducing either their alcohol intake or body weight. Reduction of serum uric acid by probenecid had no effect on serum triglyceride or cholesterol. Similarly, allopurinol had no significant effect on serum triglyceride, but a significant fall of serum cholesterol was observed.", "contents": "Mechanism and treatment of hypertriglyceridaemia in gout. Using the Intralipid lipid tolerance test we could not demonstrate any direct effect of serum triglyceride on uric acid or any influence of hyperuricaemia on triglyceride removal. This result supports previous studies suggesting that hyperuricaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia are linked through the association of obesity and alcohol excess rather than a direct cause and effect mechanism. It was possible to demonstrate significant reductions of serum triglyceride in patients with gout by reducing either their alcohol intake or body weight. Reduction of serum uric acid by probenecid had no effect on serum triglyceride or cholesterol. Similarly, allopurinol had no significant effect on serum triglyceride, but a significant fall of serum cholesterol was observed.", "PMID": 434944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2426", "title": "Leucapheresis in severe rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Two patients with severe seropositive rheumatoid arthritis previously unresponsive to conventional therapy have been treated with leucapheresis. This technique involves continuous cell separation daily to remove primarily lymphocytes. Clinical improvement was recorded with the use of standard rheumatological measures of inflammation. It is concluded that leucapheresis may help in the management of severely active rheumatoid arthritis when conventional therapy has been unsuccessful.", "contents": "Leucapheresis in severe rheumatoid arthritis. Two patients with severe seropositive rheumatoid arthritis previously unresponsive to conventional therapy have been treated with leucapheresis. This technique involves continuous cell separation daily to remove primarily lymphocytes. Clinical improvement was recorded with the use of standard rheumatological measures of inflammation. It is concluded that leucapheresis may help in the management of severely active rheumatoid arthritis when conventional therapy has been unsuccessful.", "PMID": 434945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2427", "title": "Erbium--169 versus triamcinolone hexacetonide in the treatment of rheumatoid finger joints.", "content": "Erbium--169 was compared with triamcinolone hexacetonide in the topical treatment of 32 patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Erbium--169 was injected into 83 and triamcinolone hexacetonide into 54 proximal interphalangeal or metacarpophalangeal joints. Both treatments produced alleviation of joint pain and swelling and improvement of grip strength. At every check-up (1--18 months) the percentage of remissions was higher after triamcinolone hexacetonide injection than after erbium--169. The difference was significant at 1, 3, and 6 months.", "contents": "Erbium--169 versus triamcinolone hexacetonide in the treatment of rheumatoid finger joints. Erbium--169 was compared with triamcinolone hexacetonide in the topical treatment of 32 patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Erbium--169 was injected into 83 and triamcinolone hexacetonide into 54 proximal interphalangeal or metacarpophalangeal joints. Both treatments produced alleviation of joint pain and swelling and improvement of grip strength. At every check-up (1--18 months) the percentage of remissions was higher after triamcinolone hexacetonide injection than after erbium--169. The difference was significant at 1, 3, and 6 months.", "PMID": 434946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2428", "title": "Methotrexate in Reiter's disease.", "content": "Three cases of severe Reiter's disease were treated successfully with methotrexate after failure of conservative therapy, including systemic corticosteroids in 2 instances. The usefulness and potential hazards of such therapy are discussed, and some evidence that corticosteroids may aggravate the dermatological manifestations of Reiter's disease is presented.", "contents": "Methotrexate in Reiter's disease. Three cases of severe Reiter's disease were treated successfully with methotrexate after failure of conservative therapy, including systemic corticosteroids in 2 instances. The usefulness and potential hazards of such therapy are discussed, and some evidence that corticosteroids may aggravate the dermatological manifestations of Reiter's disease is presented.", "PMID": 434947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2429", "title": "Chemical composition of human femoral and head cartilage: influence of topographical position and fibrillation.", "content": "Topographical variations in the composition of cartilage have been described in post-mortem femoral head cartilage. Weight bearing cartilage of the superior region was considerably thicker and had a higher glycosaminoglycan content and lower water and collagen content than cartilage at the periphery and below the fovea. These topographical variations in composition may result both from variations in thickness of the cartilage and from regional areas of degeneration. The composition of cartilage at different depths and with different surface characteristics from different areas of the femoral head was measured. Fibrillated cartilage both from the inferior and superior perifoveal areas had a reduced glycosaminoglycan content and higher water content than intact post-mortem specimens. Cartilage adjacent to fibrillated areas from the superior region did not differ in composition from intact areas of cartilage from the zenith of the femoral head.", "contents": "Chemical composition of human femoral and head cartilage: influence of topographical position and fibrillation. Topographical variations in the composition of cartilage have been described in post-mortem femoral head cartilage. Weight bearing cartilage of the superior region was considerably thicker and had a higher glycosaminoglycan content and lower water and collagen content than cartilage at the periphery and below the fovea. These topographical variations in composition may result both from variations in thickness of the cartilage and from regional areas of degeneration. The composition of cartilage at different depths and with different surface characteristics from different areas of the femoral head was measured. Fibrillated cartilage both from the inferior and superior perifoveal areas had a reduced glycosaminoglycan content and higher water content than intact post-mortem specimens. Cartilage adjacent to fibrillated areas from the superior region did not differ in composition from intact areas of cartilage from the zenith of the femoral head.", "PMID": 434948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2430", "title": "Glycolytic activity in human synovial lining cells in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "It was conceivable that the previously reported elevated pentose-shunt activity in human rheumatoid synoviocytes could be at the expense of glycolytic activity. To test this possibility the activities of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and lactate dehydrogenase, the two dehydrogenase enzymes of the latter pathway, have been investigated in the synovial lining cells in fresh sections of nonrheumatoid and rheumatoid synovial tissue. To measure the activity solely in the lining cells, apart from that in underlying infiltrating cells, quantitative cytochemical reactions have been used; the activities were measured by microdensitometry. The results showed highly and significantly increased activity of both enzymes in the rheumatoid cells. Increased activity was also found in synoviocytes in nonrheumatoid synovial tissue after trauma, so that the increased activity of these enzymes is not characteristic of the rheumatoid condition. However, the results indicate that the increased pentose shunt activity in rheumatoid synovial lining cells is not at the expense of glycolytic activity but may be part of an enhanced potential for utilising glucose 6-phosphate in these cells.", "contents": "Glycolytic activity in human synovial lining cells in rheumatoid arthritis. It was conceivable that the previously reported elevated pentose-shunt activity in human rheumatoid synoviocytes could be at the expense of glycolytic activity. To test this possibility the activities of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and lactate dehydrogenase, the two dehydrogenase enzymes of the latter pathway, have been investigated in the synovial lining cells in fresh sections of nonrheumatoid and rheumatoid synovial tissue. To measure the activity solely in the lining cells, apart from that in underlying infiltrating cells, quantitative cytochemical reactions have been used; the activities were measured by microdensitometry. The results showed highly and significantly increased activity of both enzymes in the rheumatoid cells. Increased activity was also found in synoviocytes in nonrheumatoid synovial tissue after trauma, so that the increased activity of these enzymes is not characteristic of the rheumatoid condition. However, the results indicate that the increased pentose shunt activity in rheumatoid synovial lining cells is not at the expense of glycolytic activity but may be part of an enhanced potential for utilising glucose 6-phosphate in these cells.", "PMID": 434949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2431", "title": "Ankylosing hyperostosis: a study of HLA A, B, and C antigens.", "content": "HLA A, B, and C antigens were studied in 25 patients with ankylosing hyperostosis. There was no evidence of an increased frequency of any antigen in association with the condition itself. However, a high frequency of several antigens was found, reflecting the predominance of Jewish patients in the series.", "contents": "Ankylosing hyperostosis: a study of HLA A, B, and C antigens. HLA A, B, and C antigens were studied in 25 patients with ankylosing hyperostosis. There was no evidence of an increased frequency of any antigen in association with the condition itself. However, a high frequency of several antigens was found, reflecting the predominance of Jewish patients in the series.", "PMID": 434950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2432", "title": "Circulating immune complexes and monocyte Fc function in autoimmune diseases.", "content": "The phagocytosis of separated and adherent monocytes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is subnormal as compared to controls on the basis of latex and yeast uptake. The monocytes from the same patients react with antibody-coated sheep red blood cells in a significantly higher degree than normal monocytes. There is a correlation between the percentage of reactive monocytes and the serum immune complex content. After brief treatment of patients with levamisole the phagocytic function of monocytes is restored and at the same time the circulating immune complex content is decreased.", "contents": "Circulating immune complexes and monocyte Fc function in autoimmune diseases. The phagocytosis of separated and adherent monocytes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is subnormal as compared to controls on the basis of latex and yeast uptake. The monocytes from the same patients react with antibody-coated sheep red blood cells in a significantly higher degree than normal monocytes. There is a correlation between the percentage of reactive monocytes and the serum immune complex content. After brief treatment of patients with levamisole the phagocytic function of monocytes is restored and at the same time the circulating immune complex content is decreased.", "PMID": 434951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2433", "title": "Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis with rice bodies: light and electron microscopic studies.", "content": "Rice bodies obtained from a young man with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis were found by light and electron microscopy to contain cells that appeared viable. The majority of these cells closely resembled type B synovial lining cells. Type A-like cells were also seen. The cells contained few mitochondria but often much lipid and glycogen, observations which suggested a dependence on anaerobic metabolic pathways in the avascular synovial fluid environment. Cells within the rice bodies lay in a matrix of collagen fibres, fibrin, and amorphous material. The source of the collagen appeared to be the cells themselves. The relatively normal appearance of the cells suggested that they were protected from many of the inflammatory stimuli present in rheumatoid synovia. This 'reversion' towards a normal appearance suggested that the stimuli inducing chronic rheumatoid inflammation might not originate in the synovial lining.", "contents": "Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis with rice bodies: light and electron microscopic studies. Rice bodies obtained from a young man with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis were found by light and electron microscopy to contain cells that appeared viable. The majority of these cells closely resembled type B synovial lining cells. Type A-like cells were also seen. The cells contained few mitochondria but often much lipid and glycogen, observations which suggested a dependence on anaerobic metabolic pathways in the avascular synovial fluid environment. Cells within the rice bodies lay in a matrix of collagen fibres, fibrin, and amorphous material. The source of the collagen appeared to be the cells themselves. The relatively normal appearance of the cells suggested that they were protected from many of the inflammatory stimuli present in rheumatoid synovia. This 'reversion' towards a normal appearance suggested that the stimuli inducing chronic rheumatoid inflammation might not originate in the synovial lining.", "PMID": 434952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2434", "title": "Hydroxyapatite phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes.", "content": "Hydroxyapatite crystals were incubated with human polymorphonuclear leucocytes and samples examined by light and electron microscopy after 3, 8, 30, and 120 minutes' incubation. Phagocytosis of crystals occurred at 3 minutes and increased with incubation. Degranulation of neutrophils, loss of cytoplasmic density, and cell necrosis were greatest in cells mixed with apatite and increased with time. Avid in vitro phagocytosis of hydroxyapatite crystals lends further support to the potential of these crystals as causes of human arthritis.", "contents": "Hydroxyapatite phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Hydroxyapatite crystals were incubated with human polymorphonuclear leucocytes and samples examined by light and electron microscopy after 3, 8, 30, and 120 minutes' incubation. Phagocytosis of crystals occurred at 3 minutes and increased with incubation. Degranulation of neutrophils, loss of cytoplasmic density, and cell necrosis were greatest in cells mixed with apatite and increased with time. Avid in vitro phagocytosis of hydroxyapatite crystals lends further support to the potential of these crystals as causes of human arthritis.", "PMID": 434953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2435", "title": "Monitoring of experimental arthritis in rabbits.", "content": "The effect of ambient temperature and air flow on the radiometric measurement of experimental arthritis in rabbit knee joints has been studied. Temperature changes due to inflammation in such joints could be detected up to 70 days after induction of the arthritis by the use of radiometry. The method has been used to quantitate the anti-inflammatory activity of intra-articularly injected cortisol acetate and orally administered aspirin. It is suggested that this method of noninvasive monitoring has a number of advantages over other procedures.", "contents": "Monitoring of experimental arthritis in rabbits. The effect of ambient temperature and air flow on the radiometric measurement of experimental arthritis in rabbit knee joints has been studied. Temperature changes due to inflammation in such joints could be detected up to 70 days after induction of the arthritis by the use of radiometry. The method has been used to quantitate the anti-inflammatory activity of intra-articularly injected cortisol acetate and orally administered aspirin. It is suggested that this method of noninvasive monitoring has a number of advantages over other procedures.", "PMID": 434954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2436", "title": "[Classical interstitial pneumonitis and mixed cryoglobulinemia in a male with Turner phenotype. Report of a case and review of the literature].", "content": "We report a male patient, chromosomal complement 44 XY with Turner's phenotype, who has multiple skeletal, genitourinary and mild cardiac abnormalities, without hypogonadism. This patient developed a diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease which result in pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory insufficiency and cardiac failure. He has also mixed cryoglobulinemia (Type III) with antigammaglobulin antibodies. The relationship among these problems and his phenotype is discussed. Apparently there is only a coincidental association.", "contents": "[Classical interstitial pneumonitis and mixed cryoglobulinemia in a male with Turner phenotype. Report of a case and review of the literature]. We report a male patient, chromosomal complement 44 XY with Turner's phenotype, who has multiple skeletal, genitourinary and mild cardiac abnormalities, without hypogonadism. This patient developed a diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease which result in pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory insufficiency and cardiac failure. He has also mixed cryoglobulinemia (Type III) with antigammaglobulin antibodies. The relationship among these problems and his phenotype is discussed. Apparently there is only a coincidental association.", "PMID": 434955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2437", "title": "[Incidence of coronary disease and other metabolic diseases in 80 gout patients].", "content": "A study about gout associated with hypertension, diabetes, ischemic cardiopathy and different alterations in the sanguineous levels of lipids was conducted on 80 patients of the Rheumatology Service at the National Institute of Cardiology in Mexico City. We found abnormal levels of tryglicerids in the blood of 55% of the patients and a high level of cholesterol in only 5%. In 27% of the patients, some alteration showed in the carbo-hydrates methabolism, and in 22,5% of them we found systemic arterial hipertension. Slight ischemic cardiopathy was showing in a 37% of the patients, but uric acid level in blood seemed to be of little importance for the frequency, type or severity of the coronary heart disease. We made a comparison between the results we obtained through these studies and those found among the Mexican population and with information found in international medical publications.", "contents": "[Incidence of coronary disease and other metabolic diseases in 80 gout patients]. A study about gout associated with hypertension, diabetes, ischemic cardiopathy and different alterations in the sanguineous levels of lipids was conducted on 80 patients of the Rheumatology Service at the National Institute of Cardiology in Mexico City. We found abnormal levels of tryglicerids in the blood of 55% of the patients and a high level of cholesterol in only 5%. In 27% of the patients, some alteration showed in the carbo-hydrates methabolism, and in 22,5% of them we found systemic arterial hipertension. Slight ischemic cardiopathy was showing in a 37% of the patients, but uric acid level in blood seemed to be of little importance for the frequency, type or severity of the coronary heart disease. We made a comparison between the results we obtained through these studies and those found among the Mexican population and with information found in international medical publications.", "PMID": 434957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2438", "title": "[High frequency electrocardiography. Study of childhood ventricular repolarization in function of the depolarization process].", "content": "On an experimental basis the authors studied the process of repolarization and depolarization in high frequency electrocardiograms of 30 healthy children. The negativity of the T wave in V1 and V2 corresponds with the repolarization of the left ventricle and the positivity with that of the right ventricle. The vectors of repolarization of both ventricles were identified and found to be situated on a horizontal plane. In all tracings the electrical systole of the right ventricle was found to be greater than that of the left ventricle. The number of components of high frequency tracings in the intrinsecoid deflexion was greater on the right ventricle. The authors suggest that the high frequency electrocardiogram is a valuable procedure in clinical investigation.", "contents": "[High frequency electrocardiography. Study of childhood ventricular repolarization in function of the depolarization process]. On an experimental basis the authors studied the process of repolarization and depolarization in high frequency electrocardiograms of 30 healthy children. The negativity of the T wave in V1 and V2 corresponds with the repolarization of the left ventricle and the positivity with that of the right ventricle. The vectors of repolarization of both ventricles were identified and found to be situated on a horizontal plane. In all tracings the electrical systole of the right ventricle was found to be greater than that of the left ventricle. The number of components of high frequency tracings in the intrinsecoid deflexion was greater on the right ventricle. The authors suggest that the high frequency electrocardiogram is a valuable procedure in clinical investigation.", "PMID": 434956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2439", "title": "[Inter- and intra-atrial blocks].", "content": "Inter and intra atrial-blocks are secondary to disorders in the conduction through the auricles of the sinusal impulse. These blocks are a consequence of important relays in the stimulation of the left auricle in respect to the right one. In these intra-atrial blocks there are two areas to auricular level, responding to different rhythms, because they are separated by a bi-directional block. In this paper we present three patients with various diseases; the first showed a persistent inter-atrial block, and the other two tanscient, intra-atrial blocks which persist through the whole acute process causing the interment of the patient in our Hospital.", "contents": "[Inter- and intra-atrial blocks]. Inter and intra atrial-blocks are secondary to disorders in the conduction through the auricles of the sinusal impulse. These blocks are a consequence of important relays in the stimulation of the left auricle in respect to the right one. In these intra-atrial blocks there are two areas to auricular level, responding to different rhythms, because they are separated by a bi-directional block. In this paper we present three patients with various diseases; the first showed a persistent inter-atrial block, and the other two tanscient, intra-atrial blocks which persist through the whole acute process causing the interment of the patient in our Hospital.", "PMID": 434960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2440", "title": "[Lupus erythematosus and chorea (report of 3 cases)].", "content": "We present here three cases of systemic Lupus Erythematosus which fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of the American Rheumatism Association. These three cases also had Chorea. This kind of association is not frequent and the cases here described are the last three of 32 published until now. We discusse in this paper the significance of the Chorea Syndrome and the probable causes originating it.", "contents": "[Lupus erythematosus and chorea (report of 3 cases)]. We present here three cases of systemic Lupus Erythematosus which fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of the American Rheumatism Association. These three cases also had Chorea. This kind of association is not frequent and the cases here described are the last three of 32 published until now. We discusse in this paper the significance of the Chorea Syndrome and the probable causes originating it.", "PMID": 434958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2441", "title": "The limited utility of fibrinogen I 125 leg scanning.", "content": "Using venography as the reference procedure, this study examined the utility of fibrinogen I 125 scanning for the detection or demonstration of deep venous thrombosis. The results demonstrate the inability of leg scanning to detect accurately the presence or absence of thrombi in the deep venous system. Most striking was the lack of sensitivity of this procedure in areas where the propensity for embolization is greatest. Sensitivity is extremely low in the anatomic areas where leg scanning demonstrates reasonable specificity. The results are nearly identical in the extremity not operated upon. The validity of all prior studies relying heavily or exclusively on 125I leg scans to determine the presence or absence of thrombi must be critically reassessed.", "contents": "The limited utility of fibrinogen I 125 leg scanning. Using venography as the reference procedure, this study examined the utility of fibrinogen I 125 scanning for the detection or demonstration of deep venous thrombosis. The results demonstrate the inability of leg scanning to detect accurately the presence or absence of thrombi in the deep venous system. Most striking was the lack of sensitivity of this procedure in areas where the propensity for embolization is greatest. Sensitivity is extremely low in the anatomic areas where leg scanning demonstrates reasonable specificity. The results are nearly identical in the extremity not operated upon. The validity of all prior studies relying heavily or exclusively on 125I leg scans to determine the presence or absence of thrombi must be critically reassessed.", "PMID": 434967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2442", "title": "Outpatient treatment and outcome of prescription drug abuse.", "content": "Forty-six consecutive patients who voluntarily sought outpatient treatment for abuse of one or more prescription drugs were studied. Barbiturates, amphetamines, and diazepam were the most common drugs abused. Desired treatments by patients included counseling, medical withdrawal, or medical maintenance with the drug of abuse or a chemically related drug. Twenty-two (47.8%) patients left treatment and relapsed within one month; another eight (17.4%) patients relapsed between one and three months after entering treatment. Only 13 (28.3%) reported abstinence 90 days after entering treatment. This experience suggests that a wide range of medical, social, and psychologic resources are required to treat prescription drug abuse, and that long-term drug abstinence is difficult to achieve with all patients.", "contents": "Outpatient treatment and outcome of prescription drug abuse. Forty-six consecutive patients who voluntarily sought outpatient treatment for abuse of one or more prescription drugs were studied. Barbiturates, amphetamines, and diazepam were the most common drugs abused. Desired treatments by patients included counseling, medical withdrawal, or medical maintenance with the drug of abuse or a chemically related drug. Twenty-two (47.8%) patients left treatment and relapsed within one month; another eight (17.4%) patients relapsed between one and three months after entering treatment. Only 13 (28.3%) reported abstinence 90 days after entering treatment. This experience suggests that a wide range of medical, social, and psychologic resources are required to treat prescription drug abuse, and that long-term drug abstinence is difficult to achieve with all patients.", "PMID": 434968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2443", "title": "Racial analysis of the volume-renin relationship in human hypertension.", "content": "We studied 29 normotensive men (14 black, 15 white) and 36 hypertensive men (27 white, nine black) to examine the association of race with blood pressure, blood volume, and peripheral renin activity (pra). Blood volume was lower in white hypertensive men than in white normotensive men, but was similar in all blacks. When subjects were tested in the supine position, PRA was lower in black normotensive subjects than white normotensive subjects. The PRA did not differ among groups tested in an upright posture, while furosemide-stimulated PRA was lower in hypertensive than normotensive subjects of both races despite lower blood volumes in white hypertensive subjects. Differences of volume and renin measurements appear to reflect basic differences between whites and blacks with essential hypertension. We emphasize the need to consider race in the investigation of human hypertension.", "contents": "Racial analysis of the volume-renin relationship in human hypertension. We studied 29 normotensive men (14 black, 15 white) and 36 hypertensive men (27 white, nine black) to examine the association of race with blood pressure, blood volume, and peripheral renin activity (pra). Blood volume was lower in white hypertensive men than in white normotensive men, but was similar in all blacks. When subjects were tested in the supine position, PRA was lower in black normotensive subjects than white normotensive subjects. The PRA did not differ among groups tested in an upright posture, while furosemide-stimulated PRA was lower in hypertensive than normotensive subjects of both races despite lower blood volumes in white hypertensive subjects. Differences of volume and renin measurements appear to reflect basic differences between whites and blacks with essential hypertension. We emphasize the need to consider race in the investigation of human hypertension.", "PMID": 434969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2444", "title": "[Behavior and hemodynamics of ventricular communication in relation with the area of the septal defect].", "content": "We studied 32 cases of isolated intra-ventricular communication (IVC) in necropsy samples, and made correlations between the size of the failure and the data got from the haemodynamic study, specially the QP/QS, the sistolic pressure of pulmonary arteries (SPPA) and the vascular-pulmonar resistance (VPR). We found no correlation between the size of the orifice and the degree of short-circuit, and the last was no dependant on the SPPA. The SPPA figures were found to be in direct proportion with the failure's area. We found that the short circuit degree is managed by the VPR in inverse relation. We discuss here all the factors involved in the haemodynamic conduct to which we made reference in this paper.", "contents": "[Behavior and hemodynamics of ventricular communication in relation with the area of the septal defect]. We studied 32 cases of isolated intra-ventricular communication (IVC) in necropsy samples, and made correlations between the size of the failure and the data got from the haemodynamic study, specially the QP/QS, the sistolic pressure of pulmonary arteries (SPPA) and the vascular-pulmonar resistance (VPR). We found no correlation between the size of the orifice and the degree of short-circuit, and the last was no dependant on the SPPA. The SPPA figures were found to be in direct proportion with the failure's area. We found that the short circuit degree is managed by the VPR in inverse relation. We discuss here all the factors involved in the haemodynamic conduct to which we made reference in this paper.", "PMID": 434961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2445", "title": "Streptococcus-related acute glomerulonephritis.", "content": "Acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is likely the result of immune complex mechanisms. The current theories in search of the streptococcal antigen responsible for the initiation of the disease are reviewed. The finding of an extracellular protein unique to streptococci isolated from patients with APSGN and its possible role in the pathogenesis of this disease is presented.", "contents": "Streptococcus-related acute glomerulonephritis. Acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is likely the result of immune complex mechanisms. The current theories in search of the streptococcal antigen responsible for the initiation of the disease are reviewed. The finding of an extracellular protein unique to streptococci isolated from patients with APSGN and its possible role in the pathogenesis of this disease is presented.", "PMID": 434962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2446", "title": "Metronidazole therapy of anaerobic bacteremia, meningitis, and brain abscess.", "content": "Four patients with Bacteroides fragilis bacteremia, one patient with a brain abscess due to Bacteroides species, Fusobacterium naviforme, and Peptostreptococcus species, and an infant with Bacteroides species ventriculitis and meningitis were treated with metronidazole. In all cases the anaerobic pathogens were eradicated. Five of the six patients recovered. One patient with leukemia in whom B fragilis bacteremia was eradicated by metronidazole treatment subsequently died of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia. Ventricular fluid and serum concentrations of metronidazole were determined in the case of meningitis and are reported.", "contents": "Metronidazole therapy of anaerobic bacteremia, meningitis, and brain abscess. Four patients with Bacteroides fragilis bacteremia, one patient with a brain abscess due to Bacteroides species, Fusobacterium naviforme, and Peptostreptococcus species, and an infant with Bacteroides species ventriculitis and meningitis were treated with metronidazole. In all cases the anaerobic pathogens were eradicated. Five of the six patients recovered. One patient with leukemia in whom B fragilis bacteremia was eradicated by metronidazole treatment subsequently died of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia. Ventricular fluid and serum concentrations of metronidazole were determined in the case of meningitis and are reported.", "PMID": 434970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2447", "title": "Nephrotoxicity of paraquat in man.", "content": "Renal function studies were performed in three cases of paraquat poisoning. Acute renal failure was observed in all three cases. Glomerular filtration rate improved for two patients who survived three weeks, illustrating the reversible nature of paraquat-induced acute renal failure. A mild to moderate transient proteinuria was observed during the first and second weeks following paraquat ingestion. Renal glucosuria, marked amino aciduria, and increased fractional excretion of phosphorus, sodium, and uric acid were observed. These findings, which have not been previously described in man, are indicative of proximal tubular dysfunction and parallel observations previously made in experimental animals.", "contents": "Nephrotoxicity of paraquat in man. Renal function studies were performed in three cases of paraquat poisoning. Acute renal failure was observed in all three cases. Glomerular filtration rate improved for two patients who survived three weeks, illustrating the reversible nature of paraquat-induced acute renal failure. A mild to moderate transient proteinuria was observed during the first and second weeks following paraquat ingestion. Renal glucosuria, marked amino aciduria, and increased fractional excretion of phosphorus, sodium, and uric acid were observed. These findings, which have not been previously described in man, are indicative of proximal tubular dysfunction and parallel observations previously made in experimental animals.", "PMID": 434971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2448", "title": "Duration of hepatitis B surface antigenemia (HBs Ag) in hemodialysis patients.", "content": "Follow-up studies were done on 231 hemodialysis patients during a period of from one to 48 months to determine the natural history of hepatitis B surface antigenemia (HBs Ag). Of those studied, 113 (49%) exhibited HBs Ag. The probability of remaining HBs Ag positive over the mean follow-up period of 14.4 months was 62%. All of the 38 patients whose HBs Ag reverted to negative did so within ten months. Those patients whose HBs Ag reverted to negative had SGOT levels that were less frequently elevated than the patients with persistent antigenemia. Of hemodialysis patients with HBs Ag, 60% showed e antigen (HBe Ag).", "contents": "Duration of hepatitis B surface antigenemia (HBs Ag) in hemodialysis patients. Follow-up studies were done on 231 hemodialysis patients during a period of from one to 48 months to determine the natural history of hepatitis B surface antigenemia (HBs Ag). Of those studied, 113 (49%) exhibited HBs Ag. The probability of remaining HBs Ag positive over the mean follow-up period of 14.4 months was 62%. All of the 38 patients whose HBs Ag reverted to negative did so within ten months. Those patients whose HBs Ag reverted to negative had SGOT levels that were less frequently elevated than the patients with persistent antigenemia. Of hemodialysis patients with HBs Ag, 60% showed e antigen (HBe Ag).", "PMID": 434972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2449", "title": "Methyldopa reaction simulating septic shock.", "content": "Though drug fever from methyldopa is well known, to my knowledge fever and hypotension simulating septic shock have never been described in this country as a syndrome resulting from methyldopa therapy. Three such cases are presented here, all proved on rechallenge. They erroneously accounted for almost 6% of all cases of septic shock at St Elizabeth Medical Center in the last ten years.", "contents": "Methyldopa reaction simulating septic shock. Though drug fever from methyldopa is well known, to my knowledge fever and hypotension simulating septic shock have never been described in this country as a syndrome resulting from methyldopa therapy. Three such cases are presented here, all proved on rechallenge. They erroneously accounted for almost 6% of all cases of septic shock at St Elizabeth Medical Center in the last ten years.", "PMID": 434973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2450", "title": "Reactive pituitary abnormalities in patients with Klinefelter's and Turner's syndromes.", "content": "Ten unselected patients with gonadal dysgenesis, three with Klinefelter's and seven with Turner's syndromes, were studied. Two of the patients with Klinefelter's and two with Turner's syndromes had enlarged pituitary fossae. The other six patients had normal sized sella, but showed localized change in the sellar contour on polytomography, suggesting hyperplasia or microadenoma formation of the pituitary gland. All ten patients had abnormally high serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels both at basal and after luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone stimulation. These results suggest that hyperplasia or microadenoma of the pituitary gland may occur secondary to gonadal failure, producing enlarged volume or attenuation in the normal contour of the sella turcica. Lack of awareness of reactive pituitary changes secondary to gonadal failure may result in inappropriate surgical management of what may appear to be primary pituitary tumor.", "contents": "Reactive pituitary abnormalities in patients with Klinefelter's and Turner's syndromes. Ten unselected patients with gonadal dysgenesis, three with Klinefelter's and seven with Turner's syndromes, were studied. Two of the patients with Klinefelter's and two with Turner's syndromes had enlarged pituitary fossae. The other six patients had normal sized sella, but showed localized change in the sellar contour on polytomography, suggesting hyperplasia or microadenoma formation of the pituitary gland. All ten patients had abnormally high serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels both at basal and after luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone stimulation. These results suggest that hyperplasia or microadenoma of the pituitary gland may occur secondary to gonadal failure, producing enlarged volume or attenuation in the normal contour of the sella turcica. Lack of awareness of reactive pituitary changes secondary to gonadal failure may result in inappropriate surgical management of what may appear to be primary pituitary tumor.", "PMID": 434974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2451", "title": "Arthritis of primary biliary cirrhosis.", "content": "We describe the clinical and roentgenographic findings in the hands of 13 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. A nondeforming, generally asymptomatic erosive arthritis was present in 12 of 13 patients. The erosions were asymmetrically distributed and mainly involved the distal small joints of the hands. Seven patients had osteopenia due to hepatic osteodystrophy. Intraosseous lytic defects were present in three patients, chondrocalcinosis in two patients, and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy in one patient. We discuss the importance of the clinical and roentgenographic features of the arthritis of primary biliary cirrhosis.", "contents": "Arthritis of primary biliary cirrhosis. We describe the clinical and roentgenographic findings in the hands of 13 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. A nondeforming, generally asymptomatic erosive arthritis was present in 12 of 13 patients. The erosions were asymmetrically distributed and mainly involved the distal small joints of the hands. Seven patients had osteopenia due to hepatic osteodystrophy. Intraosseous lytic defects were present in three patients, chondrocalcinosis in two patients, and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy in one patient. We discuss the importance of the clinical and roentgenographic features of the arthritis of primary biliary cirrhosis.", "PMID": 434976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2452", "title": "Tuberculous pericarditis.", "content": "Tuberculous pericarditis is a rare but dangerous disease with a mortality of 20% to 40%. Early diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy are critical, and open pericardial biopsy appears to be the most reliable diagnostic tool. Corticosteroids, in conjunction with antituberculous medication, are effective in suppressing the early granulomatous inflammatory response. Pericardiectomy should be considered early when the response to a medical regimen is delayed or inadequate.", "contents": "Tuberculous pericarditis. Tuberculous pericarditis is a rare but dangerous disease with a mortality of 20% to 40%. Early diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy are critical, and open pericardial biopsy appears to be the most reliable diagnostic tool. Corticosteroids, in conjunction with antituberculous medication, are effective in suppressing the early granulomatous inflammatory response. Pericardiectomy should be considered early when the response to a medical regimen is delayed or inadequate.", "PMID": 434978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2453", "title": "Abdominal paracentesis for malignant ascites.", "content": "Abdominal paracentesis for malignant ascites may be performed safely for several hours by insertion of a plastic tube through an intracatheter needle. The system is closed and sterile for up to 9 liters of drainage.", "contents": "Abdominal paracentesis for malignant ascites. Abdominal paracentesis for malignant ascites may be performed safely for several hours by insertion of a plastic tube through an intracatheter needle. The system is closed and sterile for up to 9 liters of drainage.", "PMID": 434979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2454", "title": "Nephrotic syndrome associated with methimazole therapy.", "content": "Thionamide drugs are widely used in the management of hyperthyroidism and are infrequently associated with adverse reactions. We report the development of the nephrotic syndrome during methimazole (Tapazole) therapy in a young man with Graves' disease. His proteinuria remitted promptly with discontinuance of the drug, and renal histologic features bore a striking resemblance to the toxic nephrosis induced in animals by the aminonucleoside of puromycin. In view of the histologic similarities, we propose that methimazole acted as a direct glomerular toxin, inducing the nephrotic syndrome in this patient.", "contents": "Nephrotic syndrome associated with methimazole therapy. Thionamide drugs are widely used in the management of hyperthyroidism and are infrequently associated with adverse reactions. We report the development of the nephrotic syndrome during methimazole (Tapazole) therapy in a young man with Graves' disease. His proteinuria remitted promptly with discontinuance of the drug, and renal histologic features bore a striking resemblance to the toxic nephrosis induced in animals by the aminonucleoside of puromycin. In view of the histologic similarities, we propose that methimazole acted as a direct glomerular toxin, inducing the nephrotic syndrome in this patient.", "PMID": 434980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2455", "title": "Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis with normal CSF features.", "content": "We report two cases of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in which CSF-positive cytologic features were present but other CSF measurements were normal--a most unusual combination. In both cases, the results of the cytologic examination led to substantial therapeutic alterations. Cytologic examination of the CSF should be performed in any case with unexplained CNS symptoms or signs, regardless of the character of the CSF.", "contents": "Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis with normal CSF features. We report two cases of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in which CSF-positive cytologic features were present but other CSF measurements were normal--a most unusual combination. In both cases, the results of the cytologic examination led to substantial therapeutic alterations. Cytologic examination of the CSF should be performed in any case with unexplained CNS symptoms or signs, regardless of the character of the CSF.", "PMID": 434981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2456", "title": "Muehrcke's lines of the fingernails.", "content": "Paired narrow transverse fingernail lines as described by Muehrcke developed in a 64-year-old woman. This patient had lung cancer and was receiving multiple cytostatic agents. Her serum albumin level was normal when this nail finding was quite prominent. There was no history of a markedly reduced serum albumin level. Accordingly, her nail alterations may represent another example of chemotherapy-induced nail changes.", "contents": "Muehrcke's lines of the fingernails. Paired narrow transverse fingernail lines as described by Muehrcke developed in a 64-year-old woman. This patient had lung cancer and was receiving multiple cytostatic agents. Her serum albumin level was normal when this nail finding was quite prominent. There was no history of a markedly reduced serum albumin level. Accordingly, her nail alterations may represent another example of chemotherapy-induced nail changes.", "PMID": 434982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2457", "title": "Procainamide-induced agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia.", "content": "Procainamide therapy has frequently been reported as a cause of agranulocytosis, but severe thrombocytopenia associated with the use of this drug has been noted only once. We report a case of simultaneously occurring agranulocytosis and profound thrombocytopenia in a patient receiving procainamide hydrochloride. Different mechanisms appeared to be responsible for the two cytopenias.", "contents": "Procainamide-induced agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia. Procainamide therapy has frequently been reported as a cause of agranulocytosis, but severe thrombocytopenia associated with the use of this drug has been noted only once. We report a case of simultaneously occurring agranulocytosis and profound thrombocytopenia in a patient receiving procainamide hydrochloride. Different mechanisms appeared to be responsible for the two cytopenias.", "PMID": 434983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2458", "title": "Primary empty sella: a histologic and immunocytologic study.", "content": "A primary \"empty\" sella turcica was found incidentally at autopsy, and the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland was studied with the immunoperoxidase technique. All five adenohypophysial cell types, ie, somatotrophs, lactotrophs, corticotrophs, thyrotrophs, and gonadotrophs (containing follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH] and luteinizing hormone [LH], were present in adequate numbers and were well granulated, indicating normal hormone storage.", "contents": "Primary empty sella: a histologic and immunocytologic study. A primary \"empty\" sella turcica was found incidentally at autopsy, and the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland was studied with the immunoperoxidase technique. All five adenohypophysial cell types, ie, somatotrophs, lactotrophs, corticotrophs, thyrotrophs, and gonadotrophs (containing follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH] and luteinizing hormone [LH], were present in adequate numbers and were well granulated, indicating normal hormone storage.", "PMID": 434984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2459", "title": "Assessment of severity of mitral stenosis by echocardiographic leaflet separation.", "content": "Mitral valve area (MVA) determined at cardiac catheterization was compared with M mode echocardiographic measurements in 44 patients with mitral stenosis and no substantial mitral regurgitation. Despite statistically significant correlations, measurements of anterior leaflet motion, including rate of diastolic closure (EF slope) were not useful in predicting severity of stenosis. In contrast, maximal diastolic separation of anterior and posterior leaflets (SEP) was more closely correlated with MVA and appears to have some predictive value. Narrow separation was associated with severe mitral stenosis. Wide separation was associated with relatively mild stenosis. Intermediate values in 16 of 44 patients (36%) were not of predictive value. Recognizing this limitation, measurement of maximal diastolic mitral leaflet separation from M mode echocardiograms is proposed as a simple and useful method for assessing severity of mitral stenosis.", "contents": "Assessment of severity of mitral stenosis by echocardiographic leaflet separation. Mitral valve area (MVA) determined at cardiac catheterization was compared with M mode echocardiographic measurements in 44 patients with mitral stenosis and no substantial mitral regurgitation. Despite statistically significant correlations, measurements of anterior leaflet motion, including rate of diastolic closure (EF slope) were not useful in predicting severity of stenosis. In contrast, maximal diastolic separation of anterior and posterior leaflets (SEP) was more closely correlated with MVA and appears to have some predictive value. Narrow separation was associated with severe mitral stenosis. Wide separation was associated with relatively mild stenosis. Intermediate values in 16 of 44 patients (36%) were not of predictive value. Recognizing this limitation, measurement of maximal diastolic mitral leaflet separation from M mode echocardiograms is proposed as a simple and useful method for assessing severity of mitral stenosis.", "PMID": 434992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2460", "title": "Pericarditis: differential diagnostic considerations.", "content": "A retrospective analysis of 133 patients was performed to define the factors identifying those individuals at risk for the more serious causes of pericardial disease. In 90% of the cases, the initial assessment from data obtained without pericardiocentesis or pericardiectomy proved correct. Underlying tuberculous or maligant pericarditis were the most common sources of error on initial assessment. Hemodynamic compromise exclusive of anticoagulants, roentgenographic cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, low voltage on ECG, and large pericardial effusion by echocardiography were more common (P less than .05) in tuberculous pericarditis than in acute idiopathic pericarditis. We discuss similar risk factors in patients with chronic idiopathic, rheumatologic, and uremic pericarditis. Anterior pericardiectomy is favored as the diagnostic procedure of choice in patients at risk for the more serious causes of pericarditis because of greater safety, diagnostic sensitivity, and potential therapeutic benefit.", "contents": "Pericarditis: differential diagnostic considerations. A retrospective analysis of 133 patients was performed to define the factors identifying those individuals at risk for the more serious causes of pericardial disease. In 90% of the cases, the initial assessment from data obtained without pericardiocentesis or pericardiectomy proved correct. Underlying tuberculous or maligant pericarditis were the most common sources of error on initial assessment. Hemodynamic compromise exclusive of anticoagulants, roentgenographic cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, low voltage on ECG, and large pericardial effusion by echocardiography were more common (P less than .05) in tuberculous pericarditis than in acute idiopathic pericarditis. We discuss similar risk factors in patients with chronic idiopathic, rheumatologic, and uremic pericarditis. Anterior pericardiectomy is favored as the diagnostic procedure of choice in patients at risk for the more serious causes of pericarditis because of greater safety, diagnostic sensitivity, and potential therapeutic benefit.", "PMID": 434993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2461", "title": "Intravenous antibiotic therapy at home.", "content": "Many patients who are hospitalized for intensive intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy of serious infections are not disabled. Following a short period of treatment in the hospital and after their medical problem has stabilized, these patients can safety receive IV antibiotics at home. Patients who had osteomyelitis or infective endocarditis were selected for this study. Utilizing an IV nurse team, patients were instructed in the administration of the antibiotic. They returned to the hospital every 48 hours to have their IV catheter changed and to receive a new supply of antibiotic. There was a substantial monetary saving with each treatment course (at least $1,600 per patient), and, in addition, the patients were much more comfortable at home and some returned to work or to school.", "contents": "Intravenous antibiotic therapy at home. Many patients who are hospitalized for intensive intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy of serious infections are not disabled. Following a short period of treatment in the hospital and after their medical problem has stabilized, these patients can safety receive IV antibiotics at home. Patients who had osteomyelitis or infective endocarditis were selected for this study. Utilizing an IV nurse team, patients were instructed in the administration of the antibiotic. They returned to the hospital every 48 hours to have their IV catheter changed and to receive a new supply of antibiotic. There was a substantial monetary saving with each treatment course (at least $1,600 per patient), and, in addition, the patients were much more comfortable at home and some returned to work or to school.", "PMID": 434994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2462", "title": "Thermoregulatory failure secondary to acute illness: complications and treatment.", "content": "We report on six patients in whom hypothermia secondary to acute illnesses, including pneumonia, congestive heart failure, renal failure, drug overdose, and hypoglycemia, developed. Complications that occurred were metabolic acidosis in six patients, altered sensorium in five, bradyarrhythmia in three, and hyperamylasemia in two. All patients failed to demonstrate a shivering response and represent cases of acute thermoregulatory failure. Five of the six patients survived. In the course of treatment, the choice of active or passive rewarming should be based on whether or not normal thermoregulatory mechanisms are intact.", "contents": "Thermoregulatory failure secondary to acute illness: complications and treatment. We report on six patients in whom hypothermia secondary to acute illnesses, including pneumonia, congestive heart failure, renal failure, drug overdose, and hypoglycemia, developed. Complications that occurred were metabolic acidosis in six patients, altered sensorium in five, bradyarrhythmia in three, and hyperamylasemia in two. All patients failed to demonstrate a shivering response and represent cases of acute thermoregulatory failure. Five of the six patients survived. In the course of treatment, the choice of active or passive rewarming should be based on whether or not normal thermoregulatory mechanisms are intact.", "PMID": 434995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2463", "title": "Control of refractory cardiac arrhythmias with amiodarone.", "content": "Amiodarone hydrochloride was used to treat 19 patients with symptomatic arrhythmias refractory to quinidine sulfate, procainamide hydrochloride, disopyramide phosphate, antazoline hydrochloride, lidocaine hydrochloride, bretylium tosylate, propranolol hydrochloride, phenytoin sodium, and practotol acetanilide given to the limit of tolerance. In 17 patients, attacks were completely controlled. Arrhythmias treated successfully included recurrent supraventricular tachycardias, recurrent supraventricular tachycardias with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, and refractory ventricular arrhythmias including recurrent ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation complicating acute coronary heart disease. Control was confirmed by continuous ECG monitoring both in the hospital and when ambulatory and was maintained for up to four years. Attacks of supraventricular tachycardia were reduced from 7.9/mo to one attack every 53.5 months on amiodarone. Hospital admissions for arrhythmias were reduced from 34 the year before treatment to none the year after. Therefore, amiodarone is an excellent drug for control of many refractory arrhythmias, but two patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation were refractory to this treatment.", "contents": "Control of refractory cardiac arrhythmias with amiodarone. Amiodarone hydrochloride was used to treat 19 patients with symptomatic arrhythmias refractory to quinidine sulfate, procainamide hydrochloride, disopyramide phosphate, antazoline hydrochloride, lidocaine hydrochloride, bretylium tosylate, propranolol hydrochloride, phenytoin sodium, and practotol acetanilide given to the limit of tolerance. In 17 patients, attacks were completely controlled. Arrhythmias treated successfully included recurrent supraventricular tachycardias, recurrent supraventricular tachycardias with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, and refractory ventricular arrhythmias including recurrent ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation complicating acute coronary heart disease. Control was confirmed by continuous ECG monitoring both in the hospital and when ambulatory and was maintained for up to four years. Attacks of supraventricular tachycardia were reduced from 7.9/mo to one attack every 53.5 months on amiodarone. Hospital admissions for arrhythmias were reduced from 34 the year before treatment to none the year after. Therefore, amiodarone is an excellent drug for control of many refractory arrhythmias, but two patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation were refractory to this treatment.", "PMID": 434996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2464", "title": "Moderate alcohol dose and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: not a cause of hypoventilation.", "content": "Six patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (forced expiratory volume in one second, 1.01 +/- 0.08 L [mean +/- SEM] ) were given either 1 mL of 100% alcohol per kilogram of body weight in an aqueous solution or a similar volume of water in a crossover design on consecutive days. All subjects became intoxicated and the peak alcohol concentration was 137 +/- 11 mg/dL, 40 minutes after ingestion. No significant difference was found in either PaO2 or PaCO2 between the alcohol and control period. A significant decrease in arterial pH occurred following alcohol (P less than .05), and represented a mild metabolic acidosis. Alcohol ingestion resulted in an increase in oxygen consumption (P less than .05) and carbon dioxide production (P less than .05) but no change in respiratory rate. It appears that small to moderate amounts of alcohol will not cause marked changes in oxygen tension or alveolar hypoventilation in patients with severe COPD who do not have marked hypercapnia. Nevertheless, other effects of alcohol on the cardiopulmonary system and the concomitant use of sedatives have to be considered before condoning the use of alcohol.", "contents": "Moderate alcohol dose and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: not a cause of hypoventilation. Six patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (forced expiratory volume in one second, 1.01 +/- 0.08 L [mean +/- SEM] ) were given either 1 mL of 100% alcohol per kilogram of body weight in an aqueous solution or a similar volume of water in a crossover design on consecutive days. All subjects became intoxicated and the peak alcohol concentration was 137 +/- 11 mg/dL, 40 minutes after ingestion. No significant difference was found in either PaO2 or PaCO2 between the alcohol and control period. A significant decrease in arterial pH occurred following alcohol (P less than .05), and represented a mild metabolic acidosis. Alcohol ingestion resulted in an increase in oxygen consumption (P less than .05) and carbon dioxide production (P less than .05) but no change in respiratory rate. It appears that small to moderate amounts of alcohol will not cause marked changes in oxygen tension or alveolar hypoventilation in patients with severe COPD who do not have marked hypercapnia. Nevertheless, other effects of alcohol on the cardiopulmonary system and the concomitant use of sedatives have to be considered before condoning the use of alcohol.", "PMID": 434997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2465", "title": "Acute renal failure in Rocky Mountain spotted fever.", "content": "Review of clinical and pathologic data from ten fatal cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) revealed the importance of acute renal failure in the clinical course and of multifocal perivascular interstitial nephritis as the principal pathologic lesion. In nine cases, Rickettsia rickettsii were demonstrated by immunofluorescence in the areas of vasculitis. Evidence was lacking for the role of disseminated intravascular coagulation, glomerulonephritis, or myoglobinuria in the pathogenesis of acute renal failure in these cases. Rickettsia-induced vascular injury led to acute renal failure by several mechanisms. Hypovolemia early in the course resulted in reversible, prerenal azotemia. Transient hypotension in midcourse produced acute tubular necrosis. In fulminant cases, preterminal circulatory collapse was associated with coma and oliguria. The interstitial nephritis could not be demonstrated conclusively to contribute to the acute renal failure.", "contents": "Acute renal failure in Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Review of clinical and pathologic data from ten fatal cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) revealed the importance of acute renal failure in the clinical course and of multifocal perivascular interstitial nephritis as the principal pathologic lesion. In nine cases, Rickettsia rickettsii were demonstrated by immunofluorescence in the areas of vasculitis. Evidence was lacking for the role of disseminated intravascular coagulation, glomerulonephritis, or myoglobinuria in the pathogenesis of acute renal failure in these cases. Rickettsia-induced vascular injury led to acute renal failure by several mechanisms. Hypovolemia early in the course resulted in reversible, prerenal azotemia. Transient hypotension in midcourse produced acute tubular necrosis. In fulminant cases, preterminal circulatory collapse was associated with coma and oliguria. The interstitial nephritis could not be demonstrated conclusively to contribute to the acute renal failure.", "PMID": 434998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2466", "title": "Polymyositis complicating pregnancy.", "content": "Reports of dermatomyositis and polymyositis during pregnancy are rare, there being only one previously published case that we know of in the literature. We report a case in which severe polymyositis developed during pregnancy and the patient experienced dramatic improvement following delivery. Since there is evidence that polymyositis is an immune-mediated disease, one has to speculate that the fetus and its complement of foreign antigens might have played a role in the patient's disease.", "contents": "Polymyositis complicating pregnancy. Reports of dermatomyositis and polymyositis during pregnancy are rare, there being only one previously published case that we know of in the literature. We report a case in which severe polymyositis developed during pregnancy and the patient experienced dramatic improvement following delivery. Since there is evidence that polymyositis is an immune-mediated disease, one has to speculate that the fetus and its complement of foreign antigens might have played a role in the patient's disease.", "PMID": 434999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2467", "title": "Pseudo atrioventricular block.", "content": "Pseudo first- and second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block can occur due to depressive effects of concealed junctional discharges on AV conduction of sinus impulses. Pseudo AV block is not indicative of a primary impairment of AV conduction and is reversible by interventions that suppress ectopy.", "contents": "Pseudo atrioventricular block. Pseudo first- and second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block can occur due to depressive effects of concealed junctional discharges on AV conduction of sinus impulses. Pseudo AV block is not indicative of a primary impairment of AV conduction and is reversible by interventions that suppress ectopy.", "PMID": 435001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2468", "title": "Vipoma of the pancreas: observations on the diarhrhea and circulatory disturbances.", "content": "A patient with a vipoma of the pancreas and persistently elevated blood levels of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) had watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria (WDHA syndrome). In the untreated state, the diarrhea was never profuse. Fecal volumes ranged from 0.16 to 1.24 L/day. Attempts to correct the dehydration by fluid and electrolyte loading resulted in a massive increase in fecal water and electrolyte loss. Prednisone cured the diarrhea and was associated with a decrease in plasma VIP levels. The patient had a marked circulatory disturbance with systemic arterial hypotension and cutaneous vasodilation that caused a subnormal body temperature. Removal of the tumor led to a dramatic change in the patient's circulation. Generalized vasodilation with systemic venous and arterial hypotension gave away to vasoconstriction with severe venous and arterial hypertension. Central venous pressure rose from -4.4 to +4.0 cm H2O and arterial pressure rose from 80/55 to 195/110 mm Hg. These changes might explain the unexpected and sometimes fatal heart failure that has complicated the removal of these tumors from some patients.", "contents": "Vipoma of the pancreas: observations on the diarhrhea and circulatory disturbances. A patient with a vipoma of the pancreas and persistently elevated blood levels of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) had watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria (WDHA syndrome). In the untreated state, the diarrhea was never profuse. Fecal volumes ranged from 0.16 to 1.24 L/day. Attempts to correct the dehydration by fluid and electrolyte loading resulted in a massive increase in fecal water and electrolyte loss. Prednisone cured the diarrhea and was associated with a decrease in plasma VIP levels. The patient had a marked circulatory disturbance with systemic arterial hypotension and cutaneous vasodilation that caused a subnormal body temperature. Removal of the tumor led to a dramatic change in the patient's circulation. Generalized vasodilation with systemic venous and arterial hypotension gave away to vasoconstriction with severe venous and arterial hypertension. Central venous pressure rose from -4.4 to +4.0 cm H2O and arterial pressure rose from 80/55 to 195/110 mm Hg. These changes might explain the unexpected and sometimes fatal heart failure that has complicated the removal of these tumors from some patients.", "PMID": 435002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2469", "title": "Hypothalamic-hypopituitarism due to temporal arteritis.", "content": "Hypothalamic hypopituitarism developed in a 74-year-old woman who was in the active phase of temporal arteritis. Hypopituitarism was established by low basal gonadotrophin, thyroxine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. The failure of growth hormone and prolactin to respond to insulin hypoglycemia and an inadequate prolactin response to the administration of chlorpromazine provided further evidence of hypopituitarism. The hypothalamic origin of the hypopituitarism was suggested by quantitatively normal prolactin and gonadotrophin responses to the administration of gonadorelin (gonadotrophin-releasing hormone) and protirelin (thyrotrophin-releasing hormones). Despite the frequency of other intracranial neurological lesions, injury to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland is rare in temporal arteritis. This apparent protection may be due to the abundant blood supply to the hypothalamic-pituitary region.", "contents": "Hypothalamic-hypopituitarism due to temporal arteritis. Hypothalamic hypopituitarism developed in a 74-year-old woman who was in the active phase of temporal arteritis. Hypopituitarism was established by low basal gonadotrophin, thyroxine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. The failure of growth hormone and prolactin to respond to insulin hypoglycemia and an inadequate prolactin response to the administration of chlorpromazine provided further evidence of hypopituitarism. The hypothalamic origin of the hypopituitarism was suggested by quantitatively normal prolactin and gonadotrophin responses to the administration of gonadorelin (gonadotrophin-releasing hormone) and protirelin (thyrotrophin-releasing hormones). Despite the frequency of other intracranial neurological lesions, injury to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland is rare in temporal arteritis. This apparent protection may be due to the abundant blood supply to the hypothalamic-pituitary region.", "PMID": 435003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2470", "title": "Diagnosis of miliary tuberculosis by cerebral computerized tomography.", "content": "We report a case of miliary tuberculosis with symptoms and signs of an intracranial mass. These were found to be multiple tuberculomas by computerized axial tomography (CT scan). We review the pathophysiologic features of intracranial tuberculomas. The CT scan allows a rapid and sensitive diagnosis of intracranial tuberculosis without utilizing invasive neurodiagnostic techniques. The value of using CT scans following treatment was confirmed.", "contents": "Diagnosis of miliary tuberculosis by cerebral computerized tomography. We report a case of miliary tuberculosis with symptoms and signs of an intracranial mass. These were found to be multiple tuberculomas by computerized axial tomography (CT scan). We review the pathophysiologic features of intracranial tuberculomas. The CT scan allows a rapid and sensitive diagnosis of intracranial tuberculosis without utilizing invasive neurodiagnostic techniques. The value of using CT scans following treatment was confirmed.", "PMID": 435004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2471", "title": "Tamoxifen in advanced male breast cancer.", "content": "A 47-year-old man with metastatic carcinoma of the breast was found to have positive estrogen and progesterone receptors but refused castration or estrogens. After failing on combination chemotherapy he was started on tamoxifen, which resulted in a partial response lasting seven months. He relapsed in bone and then consented to orchiectomy, which resulted in further clinical improvement. Thus, the tamoxifen did not preclude further hormonal therapy. This case, added to others reported, suggests that tamoxifen may be useful in the treatment of advanced male breast cancer. Further studies are needed to determine the level of activity, when to use the drug, and the predictive value of hormone receptors.", "contents": "Tamoxifen in advanced male breast cancer. A 47-year-old man with metastatic carcinoma of the breast was found to have positive estrogen and progesterone receptors but refused castration or estrogens. After failing on combination chemotherapy he was started on tamoxifen, which resulted in a partial response lasting seven months. He relapsed in bone and then consented to orchiectomy, which resulted in further clinical improvement. Thus, the tamoxifen did not preclude further hormonal therapy. This case, added to others reported, suggests that tamoxifen may be useful in the treatment of advanced male breast cancer. Further studies are needed to determine the level of activity, when to use the drug, and the predictive value of hormone receptors.", "PMID": 435005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2472", "title": "Erythema annulare centrifugum and Hodgkin's disease: association with disease activity.", "content": "The skin lesions of erythema annulare centrifugum developed in a 58-year-old woman who had Hodgkin's disease. Response of the neoplasm to vinblastine sulfate was accompanied by disappearance of the skin lesions. When therapy was discontinued, both disorders recurred, and both responded to reinstitution of vinblastine therapy. To our knowledge, this case is the first reported association of erythema annulare centrifugum and Hodgkin's disease. The cutaneous manifestation in this patient were a nonneoplastic concomitant of her neoplastic disorder.", "contents": "Erythema annulare centrifugum and Hodgkin's disease: association with disease activity. The skin lesions of erythema annulare centrifugum developed in a 58-year-old woman who had Hodgkin's disease. Response of the neoplasm to vinblastine sulfate was accompanied by disappearance of the skin lesions. When therapy was discontinued, both disorders recurred, and both responded to reinstitution of vinblastine therapy. To our knowledge, this case is the first reported association of erythema annulare centrifugum and Hodgkin's disease. The cutaneous manifestation in this patient were a nonneoplastic concomitant of her neoplastic disorder.", "PMID": 435007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2473", "title": "Blindness and reliability in lifetime psychiatric diagnosis.", "content": "Confidence in the assignment of lifetime psychiatric diagnosis is of great importance to genetic studies of psychiatric illness. To establish the credibility of a lifetime psychiatric history obtained via a structured interview, two paradigms were constructed to estimate reproducibility of the interview recording process. The first paradigm, simultaneous coding, was used to test comparability of four interviewers independently coding an interview form. Low variance/high reliability was demonstrated. The second paradigm, test-retest, provided for each subject to be interviewed twice, with a mean interim time of 6.7 months (SEM = .39). This paradigm demonstrated high reproducibility of psychiatric diagnosis over time. The overall k value for measurement of diagnostic agreement was .79. Only the diagnostic category of minor depression seemed to evade reliability. It was shown across both paradigms that an interviewer need not be blind (naive to previously held diagnosis) to obtain an unbiased interview. However, it is still recommended that the diagnosis of each interview should be determined by an independent diagnostician.", "contents": "Blindness and reliability in lifetime psychiatric diagnosis. Confidence in the assignment of lifetime psychiatric diagnosis is of great importance to genetic studies of psychiatric illness. To establish the credibility of a lifetime psychiatric history obtained via a structured interview, two paradigms were constructed to estimate reproducibility of the interview recording process. The first paradigm, simultaneous coding, was used to test comparability of four interviewers independently coding an interview form. Low variance/high reliability was demonstrated. The second paradigm, test-retest, provided for each subject to be interviewed twice, with a mean interim time of 6.7 months (SEM = .39). This paradigm demonstrated high reproducibility of psychiatric diagnosis over time. The overall k value for measurement of diagnostic agreement was .79. Only the diagnostic category of minor depression seemed to evade reliability. It was shown across both paradigms that an interviewer need not be blind (naive to previously held diagnosis) to obtain an unbiased interview. However, it is still recommended that the diagnosis of each interview should be determined by an independent diagnostician.", "PMID": 435012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2474", "title": "Extreme MMPI scores and the Research Diagnostic Criteria. Screening college men for psychopathology.", "content": "This study compares psychiatric evaluations made with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality inventory (MMPI) to evaluations with a standard clinical interview and the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC). The purpose was to generate a nonhospitalized, previously undiagnosed sample of persons who had psychiatric difficulties or symptoms. Of 385 college male volunteers, 56 with scores at least 3 SD above the mean on at least one MMPI scale were chosen as an index group, and 27, with all MMPI scores within normal limits, as a control group. In the index group, 82% met the RDC for at least one diagnosis, whereas only 22% of the control sample met the RDC for any diagnosis. One index subject met the RDC for schizophrenia; 15 met the RDC for a major affective disorder. Some correspondence between specific MMPI profile code types and RDC diagnoses was evident. Thus, researchers can identify a range of psychopathology meeting the RDC by using MMPI screening in a nonhospital setting. Such a research sample, free from the possible artifacts of hospitalization, drug treatment, and diagnostic labeling, can be useful particularly in testing hypotheses concerning the biological correlates of psychopathology.", "contents": "Extreme MMPI scores and the Research Diagnostic Criteria. Screening college men for psychopathology. This study compares psychiatric evaluations made with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality inventory (MMPI) to evaluations with a standard clinical interview and the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC). The purpose was to generate a nonhospitalized, previously undiagnosed sample of persons who had psychiatric difficulties or symptoms. Of 385 college male volunteers, 56 with scores at least 3 SD above the mean on at least one MMPI scale were chosen as an index group, and 27, with all MMPI scores within normal limits, as a control group. In the index group, 82% met the RDC for at least one diagnosis, whereas only 22% of the control sample met the RDC for any diagnosis. One index subject met the RDC for schizophrenia; 15 met the RDC for a major affective disorder. Some correspondence between specific MMPI profile code types and RDC diagnoses was evident. Thus, researchers can identify a range of psychopathology meeting the RDC by using MMPI screening in a nonhospital setting. Such a research sample, free from the possible artifacts of hospitalization, drug treatment, and diagnostic labeling, can be useful particularly in testing hypotheses concerning the biological correlates of psychopathology.", "PMID": 435013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2475", "title": "Systems of care and treatment outcomes for alcoholic patients.", "content": "All admissions to the Singer Mental Health Center, Rockford, Ill, with a diagnosis of alcoholism in a one-year period (N = 466) were randomly assigned to one of two inpatient programs. One program, \"intensive incare,\" had a high staff-patient ratio with the operating assumption that intensive staff-patient interaction is significant in patient outcome. The other, \"peer-oriented incare,\" was of low staff density with the assumption that patient-patient interaction is critical in rehabilitation. In addition, the patients resided in communities with outpatient services classified as either \"network\" (an organized set of community services) or \"no-network\" (no special funding or deliberate outreach effort). Thus, each patient could be treated in one of four systems of care. Data on treatment outcomes were collected via semistructured interviews at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after admission. The \"peer-oriented incare\" system showed superiority to the \"intensive incare\" treatment approach in improved drinking behavior. There were no other significant differences among the four systems on the outcome criteria for alcoholic patients. Along with other recent studies, these findings have implications for policy planning, particularly with today's emphasis on cost effectiveness.", "contents": "Systems of care and treatment outcomes for alcoholic patients. All admissions to the Singer Mental Health Center, Rockford, Ill, with a diagnosis of alcoholism in a one-year period (N = 466) were randomly assigned to one of two inpatient programs. One program, \"intensive incare,\" had a high staff-patient ratio with the operating assumption that intensive staff-patient interaction is significant in patient outcome. The other, \"peer-oriented incare,\" was of low staff density with the assumption that patient-patient interaction is critical in rehabilitation. In addition, the patients resided in communities with outpatient services classified as either \"network\" (an organized set of community services) or \"no-network\" (no special funding or deliberate outreach effort). Thus, each patient could be treated in one of four systems of care. Data on treatment outcomes were collected via semistructured interviews at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after admission. The \"peer-oriented incare\" system showed superiority to the \"intensive incare\" treatment approach in improved drinking behavior. There were no other significant differences among the four systems on the outcome criteria for alcoholic patients. Along with other recent studies, these findings have implications for policy planning, particularly with today's emphasis on cost effectiveness.", "PMID": 435014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2476", "title": "Rapid cycling in manic-depressives induced by tricyclic antidepressants.", "content": "Maintenance tricyclic antidepressants induced rapid cycling between mania and depression in five female bipolar (manic-depressive) patients. Lithium carbonate did not prevent the tricyclic-induced rapid cycling, although two patients subsequently responded well to lithium carbonate alone. In these patients, the action of tricyclics can be conceptualized as accelerating rather than counteracting the natural, cyclic course of the illness in all of its phases. In this respect, tricyclics are analogous to several other drugs that are capable of modulating the frequency of oscillatory biological processes.", "contents": "Rapid cycling in manic-depressives induced by tricyclic antidepressants. Maintenance tricyclic antidepressants induced rapid cycling between mania and depression in five female bipolar (manic-depressive) patients. Lithium carbonate did not prevent the tricyclic-induced rapid cycling, although two patients subsequently responded well to lithium carbonate alone. In these patients, the action of tricyclics can be conceptualized as accelerating rather than counteracting the natural, cyclic course of the illness in all of its phases. In this respect, tricyclics are analogous to several other drugs that are capable of modulating the frequency of oscillatory biological processes.", "PMID": 435015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2477", "title": "Clomipramine-induced mania in unipolar depression.", "content": "Manic behavior during randomly assigned treatment with clomipramine (chlorimipramine) or amitriptyline hydrochloride developed in seven of 50 hospitalized unipolar depressed patients. Six of the 25 clomipramine-treated patients became manic. Only one patient in the amitriptyline-treated group developed manic behavior. The switch into mania occurred at the mean age of 63, much later than the reported age of risk for mania. Significant correlations were observed between the age at onset of mania, the number of days of clomipramine treatment, and the duration of the manic episode. We hypothesize that such a switch into mania in unipolar patients is triggered by the psychopharmacological effect of clomipramine through an alleged change in activity of the central dopamine and serotonin systems.", "contents": "Clomipramine-induced mania in unipolar depression. Manic behavior during randomly assigned treatment with clomipramine (chlorimipramine) or amitriptyline hydrochloride developed in seven of 50 hospitalized unipolar depressed patients. Six of the 25 clomipramine-treated patients became manic. Only one patient in the amitriptyline-treated group developed manic behavior. The switch into mania occurred at the mean age of 63, much later than the reported age of risk for mania. Significant correlations were observed between the age at onset of mania, the number of days of clomipramine treatment, and the duration of the manic episode. We hypothesize that such a switch into mania in unipolar patients is triggered by the psychopharmacological effect of clomipramine through an alleged change in activity of the central dopamine and serotonin systems.", "PMID": 435016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2478", "title": "Human endothelial cells in culture.", "content": "Daily changes of cultured endothelial cells were observed by phase contrast microscopy, time-lapse microcinematography and electron microscopy. By light microscopy, the cultured cells are polygonal in shape and form monolayered clusters. However, they become elongated like fibroblasts between 10 and 14 days. Proliferation of the cultured cells by mitotic division could not be recognized by cinematographic observation. On the contrary, many binucleate cells occurred in the periphery of the cluster throughout the proliferation period, suggesting that the cells proliferate here, at least predominantly, by amitotic division. By electron microscopy, specific endothelial granules and two types of filaments (about 120 A and 65 A in diameter) were observed in the cultured endothelial cells. The combined cinematographic and electron microscopic observations suggested that the thiner filaments may be contractile elements involved in the movement of the cultured cells.", "contents": "Human endothelial cells in culture. Daily changes of cultured endothelial cells were observed by phase contrast microscopy, time-lapse microcinematography and electron microscopy. By light microscopy, the cultured cells are polygonal in shape and form monolayered clusters. However, they become elongated like fibroblasts between 10 and 14 days. Proliferation of the cultured cells by mitotic division could not be recognized by cinematographic observation. On the contrary, many binucleate cells occurred in the periphery of the cluster throughout the proliferation period, suggesting that the cells proliferate here, at least predominantly, by amitotic division. By electron microscopy, specific endothelial granules and two types of filaments (about 120 A and 65 A in diameter) were observed in the cultured endothelial cells. The combined cinematographic and electron microscopic observations suggested that the thiner filaments may be contractile elements involved in the movement of the cultured cells.", "PMID": 435017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2479", "title": "Electron microscopic study of macrophages appearing in a stab wound of the brain of rats following intravenous injection of carbon particles.", "content": "Colloidal carbon was introduced intravenously into young rats to label circulating monocytes before the stabbing of the brain. The rats were sacrificed 1 to 14 days after the stab wound. In the rats sacrificed between 3 to 7 days after the stabbing, numerous phagocytic cells were present in the needle wound. Electron microscope study showed that some of these phagocytic cells carried intracytoplasmic carbon particles. These carbon-labelled cells showed features either of a monocyte, full-blown macrophages, or typical microglia. It is believed that they are all derived from circulating monocytes which have ingested carbon particles in circulation and thereafter invaded the stab wound.", "contents": "Electron microscopic study of macrophages appearing in a stab wound of the brain of rats following intravenous injection of carbon particles. Colloidal carbon was introduced intravenously into young rats to label circulating monocytes before the stabbing of the brain. The rats were sacrificed 1 to 14 days after the stab wound. In the rats sacrificed between 3 to 7 days after the stabbing, numerous phagocytic cells were present in the needle wound. Electron microscope study showed that some of these phagocytic cells carried intracytoplasmic carbon particles. These carbon-labelled cells showed features either of a monocyte, full-blown macrophages, or typical microglia. It is believed that they are all derived from circulating monocytes which have ingested carbon particles in circulation and thereafter invaded the stab wound.", "PMID": 435018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2480", "title": "Electron microscopic study on the testicular interstitial cells in the mouse.", "content": "The interstitial tissue of the mouse testis contains, besides mature and immature Leydig cells, fibroblasts, occasional plasma cells and a considerable number of macrophages abutting on the Leydig cells. Mature Leydig cells extend filopodia into dilated portions of the intercellular space. Along the cell surface deep hollows are frequently formed which contain numerous filopodia protruded from the plasma membrane limiting the hollow. This unique structure is tentatively designated the \"basal infolding-like structure.\" Abundant SER is classified into the tubular and vesicular forms. The former is composed of interconnected tubules which may form flattened, partially fenestrated cisternae in some areas. The latter form is composed of vesicles of variable sizes. The tubules probably transform into the vesicular form, possibly reflecting the functional phases of Leydig cells. Thus, among vesicles, patches of tubules with smaller calibers may be detectable. Membranous whorls composed of concentric lamellar stacks of flattened, partially fenestrated cisternae of the SER are frequently observed, enclosing a mitochondrion, lipid droplet or microbody in their center. A typical annulate lamellae are occasionally found in the cytoplasm or in the whorl which is continuous to the membranes of the ER. Small foci of the RER are detected and sometimes dilations of its cisternae are observed. Polysomes are distributed not only in the RER foci, but also throughout the cytoplasm intervening among the SER membranes. Mitochondria possess tubular cristae and occasionally contain sparse ribosome-like granules. Out of several Golgi complexes dispersed in the cytoplasm, the juxtanuclear one contains a diplosome and an occasional solitary cilium. Relatively numerous microbodies are scattered in the cytoplasm. Lipid droplet content varied strongly from cell to cell, probably suggesting variable intensities of steroid synthesis. In the peripheral cytoplasm, large vacuoles were found, probably derived from the testosterone-containing SER. These possible secretory vacuoles occurred close to the plasma membrane, suggesting emiocytotic release of the contents. The basal lamina was restricted to certain areas of the plasma membrane.", "contents": "Electron microscopic study on the testicular interstitial cells in the mouse. The interstitial tissue of the mouse testis contains, besides mature and immature Leydig cells, fibroblasts, occasional plasma cells and a considerable number of macrophages abutting on the Leydig cells. Mature Leydig cells extend filopodia into dilated portions of the intercellular space. Along the cell surface deep hollows are frequently formed which contain numerous filopodia protruded from the plasma membrane limiting the hollow. This unique structure is tentatively designated the \"basal infolding-like structure.\" Abundant SER is classified into the tubular and vesicular forms. The former is composed of interconnected tubules which may form flattened, partially fenestrated cisternae in some areas. The latter form is composed of vesicles of variable sizes. The tubules probably transform into the vesicular form, possibly reflecting the functional phases of Leydig cells. Thus, among vesicles, patches of tubules with smaller calibers may be detectable. Membranous whorls composed of concentric lamellar stacks of flattened, partially fenestrated cisternae of the SER are frequently observed, enclosing a mitochondrion, lipid droplet or microbody in their center. A typical annulate lamellae are occasionally found in the cytoplasm or in the whorl which is continuous to the membranes of the ER. Small foci of the RER are detected and sometimes dilations of its cisternae are observed. Polysomes are distributed not only in the RER foci, but also throughout the cytoplasm intervening among the SER membranes. Mitochondria possess tubular cristae and occasionally contain sparse ribosome-like granules. Out of several Golgi complexes dispersed in the cytoplasm, the juxtanuclear one contains a diplosome and an occasional solitary cilium. Relatively numerous microbodies are scattered in the cytoplasm. Lipid droplet content varied strongly from cell to cell, probably suggesting variable intensities of steroid synthesis. In the peripheral cytoplasm, large vacuoles were found, probably derived from the testosterone-containing SER. These possible secretory vacuoles occurred close to the plasma membrane, suggesting emiocytotic release of the contents. The basal lamina was restricted to certain areas of the plasma membrane.", "PMID": 435019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2481", "title": "Blood supply of the rat periodontal space during amelogenesis as studied by the injection replica SEM method.", "content": "Distribution of blood vessels at the labial periodontal space of the rat lower incisor teeth was studied, using Mercox-resin vascular casts, which were coated with gold-palladium and observed in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Three different layers were identified in the vascular bed of the periodontium. In the inner layer the enamel organ was supplied by a blood capillary network that changed from a circular mesh to a ladder-like pattern during amelogenesis. The middle layer was supplied by small arteries and arterioles. Small arteries originated from the inferior alveolar artery; arterioles, arising from them, became blood capillaries. In the outer layer, the sinusoid veins continued with the blood capillaries which ran into the proximal and the distal sites of the inner layer. This venous layer is located near the alveolar bones. As capillary networks change in pattern during amelogenesis, the circular mesh is considered convenient to provide the required materials for the proliferation and differentiation of inner enamel epithelial cells as well as for early enamel matrix formation, whereas the ladder pattern seems suitable to supply numerous organic or inorganic materials for the advanced enamel matrix formation and calcification.", "contents": "Blood supply of the rat periodontal space during amelogenesis as studied by the injection replica SEM method. Distribution of blood vessels at the labial periodontal space of the rat lower incisor teeth was studied, using Mercox-resin vascular casts, which were coated with gold-palladium and observed in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Three different layers were identified in the vascular bed of the periodontium. In the inner layer the enamel organ was supplied by a blood capillary network that changed from a circular mesh to a ladder-like pattern during amelogenesis. The middle layer was supplied by small arteries and arterioles. Small arteries originated from the inferior alveolar artery; arterioles, arising from them, became blood capillaries. In the outer layer, the sinusoid veins continued with the blood capillaries which ran into the proximal and the distal sites of the inner layer. This venous layer is located near the alveolar bones. As capillary networks change in pattern during amelogenesis, the circular mesh is considered convenient to provide the required materials for the proliferation and differentiation of inner enamel epithelial cells as well as for early enamel matrix formation, whereas the ladder pattern seems suitable to supply numerous organic or inorganic materials for the advanced enamel matrix formation and calcification.", "PMID": 435020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2482", "title": "Traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta.", "content": "Fifteen patients with blunt traumatic rupture of the aorta, secondary to automobile accidents, that occurred less than seven days prior to admission were treated between 1967 and 1976. The diagnosis was suspected on the basis of roentgenographic evidence of upper mediastinal widening. Aortography demonstrated a localized deformity and dilation of the aorta isthmus just distal to the subclavian artery in all but one patient whose lesion occurred in the mid-descending thoracic aorta. The salvage of one of five patients with free rupture by the prompt institution of total cardiopulmonary bypass has prompted us to begin each operation with the capability of using either left heart bypass or cardiopulmonary bypass. An associated rupture of the right atrium of one patient was successfully controlled. Nine of 12 patients survived the operation, eight were discharged from the hospital, and six were alive and well as least one year later.", "contents": "Traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta. Fifteen patients with blunt traumatic rupture of the aorta, secondary to automobile accidents, that occurred less than seven days prior to admission were treated between 1967 and 1976. The diagnosis was suspected on the basis of roentgenographic evidence of upper mediastinal widening. Aortography demonstrated a localized deformity and dilation of the aorta isthmus just distal to the subclavian artery in all but one patient whose lesion occurred in the mid-descending thoracic aorta. The salvage of one of five patients with free rupture by the prompt institution of total cardiopulmonary bypass has prompted us to begin each operation with the capability of using either left heart bypass or cardiopulmonary bypass. An associated rupture of the right atrium of one patient was successfully controlled. Nine of 12 patients survived the operation, eight were discharged from the hospital, and six were alive and well as least one year later.", "PMID": 435028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2483", "title": "Fluid replacement in patients with large-area, full- and partial-thickness burns.", "content": "The importance of fluid replacement therapy in large-area, full- and partial-thickness burns has become widely recognized in the past 35 years. Experimenters have proposed various intravenous solutions and various ratios of fluid to body weight and percentage of body area burned. The importance of colloid and plasma during the early resuscitation phase has been questioned. The role played by age, by physical condition, and by individual response to injury in determining the patient's therapeutic needs has also been widely recognized. All physicians should bear in mind the need for careful observation of the patient in association with an understanding of the pathophysiology involved in treating burn shock.", "contents": "Fluid replacement in patients with large-area, full- and partial-thickness burns. The importance of fluid replacement therapy in large-area, full- and partial-thickness burns has become widely recognized in the past 35 years. Experimenters have proposed various intravenous solutions and various ratios of fluid to body weight and percentage of body area burned. The importance of colloid and plasma during the early resuscitation phase has been questioned. The role played by age, by physical condition, and by individual response to injury in determining the patient's therapeutic needs has also been widely recognized. All physicians should bear in mind the need for careful observation of the patient in association with an understanding of the pathophysiology involved in treating burn shock.", "PMID": 435029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2484", "title": "On the malignant potential of acquired short esophagus.", "content": "Esophageal adenocarcinoma developed in an esophagus lined with columnar epithelium. The malignant potential of columnar metaplasia complicating long-standing gastroesophageal reflux and the implications of surgical management of acquired short esophagus are discussed briefly.", "contents": "On the malignant potential of acquired short esophagus. Esophageal adenocarcinoma developed in an esophagus lined with columnar epithelium. The malignant potential of columnar metaplasia complicating long-standing gastroesophageal reflux and the implications of surgical management of acquired short esophagus are discussed briefly.", "PMID": 435030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2485", "title": "Discontinuity between the heart and the pulmonary circulation. Its management with the use of a valved external conduit.", "content": "The Hancock conduit that contains a porcine xenograft valve has been used in part of the cardiac repair of 22 patients with complex congenital heart disease. Five patients had a severe form of tetralogy of Fallot; six had pulmonary atresia; five had transposition of the great vessels, ventricular septal defect (VSD), and pulmonic stenosis; five had truncus arteriosus; and one had \"corrected\" transposition, VSD, and pulmonic stenosis. The hospital mortality was 2/22. This conduit has proved a satisfactory method to establish right ventricular-pulmonary artery continuity.", "contents": "Discontinuity between the heart and the pulmonary circulation. Its management with the use of a valved external conduit. The Hancock conduit that contains a porcine xenograft valve has been used in part of the cardiac repair of 22 patients with complex congenital heart disease. Five patients had a severe form of tetralogy of Fallot; six had pulmonary atresia; five had transposition of the great vessels, ventricular septal defect (VSD), and pulmonic stenosis; five had truncus arteriosus; and one had \"corrected\" transposition, VSD, and pulmonic stenosis. The hospital mortality was 2/22. This conduit has proved a satisfactory method to establish right ventricular-pulmonary artery continuity.", "PMID": 435031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2486", "title": "Pharmacology of sulfadiazine silver. Its attachment to burned human and rat skin and studies of gastrointestinal absorption and extension.", "content": "The attachment of Ag110-labeled sulfadiazine silver (AgSU) to the burn wound of humans and full and partial thickness scald burns of rats was studied over time. The duration of Ag adherence to burned skin and the absorption and organ distribution of ingested AgSU was studied. Peak attachment to human burns was 1% of the administered dose in 24 hours. Rat wounds showed greater attachment. Dissections of the wounds showed 81% to 98.7% of this attachment to be in the most superficial layers of cells and no silver was observed in organs of surface-treated animals. Duration of attachment after one application was until wound slough with percent attachment dropping from 5% to 1.7% over that time. Oral ingestion resulted in substantial silver deposition, particularly in liver and lungs. Clearance occurs in three weeks. The basic function of AgSU may be through the slow release of silver into the superficial wound environment.", "contents": "Pharmacology of sulfadiazine silver. Its attachment to burned human and rat skin and studies of gastrointestinal absorption and extension. The attachment of Ag110-labeled sulfadiazine silver (AgSU) to the burn wound of humans and full and partial thickness scald burns of rats was studied over time. The duration of Ag adherence to burned skin and the absorption and organ distribution of ingested AgSU was studied. Peak attachment to human burns was 1% of the administered dose in 24 hours. Rat wounds showed greater attachment. Dissections of the wounds showed 81% to 98.7% of this attachment to be in the most superficial layers of cells and no silver was observed in organs of surface-treated animals. Duration of attachment after one application was until wound slough with percent attachment dropping from 5% to 1.7% over that time. Oral ingestion resulted in substantial silver deposition, particularly in liver and lungs. Clearance occurs in three weeks. The basic function of AgSU may be through the slow release of silver into the superficial wound environment.", "PMID": 435032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2487", "title": "Esophageal atresia. Critical analysis of 39 cases.", "content": "Knowledge of the factors that affect morbidity and mortality in the treatment of congenital malformations of the esophagus should result in better planning of their surgical management with increased likelihood of success. In 39 infants studied, associated anomalies, low birth weight, and postoperative respiratory complications were the factors responsible for morbidity and mortality. Infants with associated anomalies had a longer hospitalization than those with none, a mean of 17 vs 12 days.", "contents": "Esophageal atresia. Critical analysis of 39 cases. Knowledge of the factors that affect morbidity and mortality in the treatment of congenital malformations of the esophagus should result in better planning of their surgical management with increased likelihood of success. In 39 infants studied, associated anomalies, low birth weight, and postoperative respiratory complications were the factors responsible for morbidity and mortality. Infants with associated anomalies had a longer hospitalization than those with none, a mean of 17 vs 12 days.", "PMID": 435033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2488", "title": "Bilateral internal carotid artery aneurysms.", "content": "Two patients were treated for bilateral internal carotid artery aneurysms. One had resection and restoration of continuity on the right side nine years after ligation of the left internal carotid artery. The second had sequential resection and reconstruction of both vessels. Complications of carotid aneurysms include embolization, rupture, and thrombosis. Preferred treatment is resection with reconstitution of the flow. Patients with carotid aneurysms should be investigated for similar lesions on the opposite side. Patients who have had one carotid aneurysm treated should be followed up for the possible occurrence of a contralateral aneurysm.", "contents": "Bilateral internal carotid artery aneurysms. Two patients were treated for bilateral internal carotid artery aneurysms. One had resection and restoration of continuity on the right side nine years after ligation of the left internal carotid artery. The second had sequential resection and reconstruction of both vessels. Complications of carotid aneurysms include embolization, rupture, and thrombosis. Preferred treatment is resection with reconstitution of the flow. Patients with carotid aneurysms should be investigated for similar lesions on the opposite side. Patients who have had one carotid aneurysm treated should be followed up for the possible occurrence of a contralateral aneurysm.", "PMID": 435034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2489", "title": "Pathophysiology of bends and decompression sickness. An overview with emphasis on treatment.", "content": "Current concepts in the pathophysiology of decompression sickness are reviewed. Mild, moderate, and severe forms of this syndrome resulting from gaseous and lipid emboli are described. Therapy is aimed at restoring or specifically treating each alteration. Plasma volume deficit is restored by colloidal re-expansion. Decompression sickness is partially treated when recompression alone is used. Blood lipid alterations are managed by use of antilipemic agents. Dextran is mentioned. Divers at depths of 61 m display changes in hematocrit, platelet, and blood lipid profiles. Cord paralysis may occur from bubbles in the vena cava. Retrograde migration blocks the venous circulation of the spinal cord. Ultrasonic devices can detect \"silent\" bubbles during decompression. Recompression, when available, is a lifesaving treatment for diving accidents involving saturation diving. Air embolism is discussed. Monitoring emboli by EEG and fundoscopy are reported.", "contents": "Pathophysiology of bends and decompression sickness. An overview with emphasis on treatment. Current concepts in the pathophysiology of decompression sickness are reviewed. Mild, moderate, and severe forms of this syndrome resulting from gaseous and lipid emboli are described. Therapy is aimed at restoring or specifically treating each alteration. Plasma volume deficit is restored by colloidal re-expansion. Decompression sickness is partially treated when recompression alone is used. Blood lipid alterations are managed by use of antilipemic agents. Dextran is mentioned. Divers at depths of 61 m display changes in hematocrit, platelet, and blood lipid profiles. Cord paralysis may occur from bubbles in the vena cava. Retrograde migration blocks the venous circulation of the spinal cord. Ultrasonic devices can detect \"silent\" bubbles during decompression. Recompression, when available, is a lifesaving treatment for diving accidents involving saturation diving. Air embolism is discussed. Monitoring emboli by EEG and fundoscopy are reported.", "PMID": 435035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2490", "title": "Gastric lymphoma vs adenocarcinoma. A diagnostic problem.", "content": "The prevalence of gastric lymphoma is increasing relative to gastric carcinoma. The differentiation between these two diagnoses can be difficult, but it is important from the standpoint of treatment and prognosis. These case reports illustrate that the results of gastroscopy, biopsy, and cytology may be misleading. If there is any question at the time of exploration, a biopsy and frozen section should be obtained before proceeding further or before closing the abdomen without resection. The pathologic diagnosis will determine the operation and postoperative treatment to be carried out.", "contents": "Gastric lymphoma vs adenocarcinoma. A diagnostic problem. The prevalence of gastric lymphoma is increasing relative to gastric carcinoma. The differentiation between these two diagnoses can be difficult, but it is important from the standpoint of treatment and prognosis. These case reports illustrate that the results of gastroscopy, biopsy, and cytology may be misleading. If there is any question at the time of exploration, a biopsy and frozen section should be obtained before proceeding further or before closing the abdomen without resection. The pathologic diagnosis will determine the operation and postoperative treatment to be carried out.", "PMID": 435036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2491", "title": "Segmental aortic occlusion: An unusual lesion found in menopausal women.", "content": "A subgroup of patients with aortoiliac atherosclerosis are perimenopausal women in whom the lesions are confined to the midportion of the terminal aorta. The lesions occur in relatively small, though not hypoplastic, vessels, and it is speculated that the relatively small size of the terminal aorta functions as a long stenosis with resultant predisposition to atheroma formation. Other etiologic factors are not identified except for smoking. Endarterectomy results in satisfactory restoration of distal arterial flow. Recurrence has not been observed but the question exists as to whether replacement of the small segment with a larger prosthesis may be more appropriate in view of the possible etiology described.", "contents": "Segmental aortic occlusion: An unusual lesion found in menopausal women. A subgroup of patients with aortoiliac atherosclerosis are perimenopausal women in whom the lesions are confined to the midportion of the terminal aorta. The lesions occur in relatively small, though not hypoplastic, vessels, and it is speculated that the relatively small size of the terminal aorta functions as a long stenosis with resultant predisposition to atheroma formation. Other etiologic factors are not identified except for smoking. Endarterectomy results in satisfactory restoration of distal arterial flow. Recurrence has not been observed but the question exists as to whether replacement of the small segment with a larger prosthesis may be more appropriate in view of the possible etiology described.", "PMID": 435037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2492", "title": "The role of surgery on ambulatory patients in one teaching hospital.", "content": "The development of a program of one-day surgery for ambulatory patients in one hospital was stimulated by overloaded operating room facilities and a long waiting list of patients for hospital admission. This concept has received enthusiastic reception by the surgical staff and the number of operations has increased to over 7,500 per year. All of the surgical specialty services use the surgical day care unit, although the number of cases suitable for ambulatory surgical treatment varies greatly on the various services. There have been no deaths and about 1% of patients have been admitted to the hospital from the surgical day care unit for a variety of reasons that are summarized.", "contents": "The role of surgery on ambulatory patients in one teaching hospital. The development of a program of one-day surgery for ambulatory patients in one hospital was stimulated by overloaded operating room facilities and a long waiting list of patients for hospital admission. This concept has received enthusiastic reception by the surgical staff and the number of operations has increased to over 7,500 per year. All of the surgical specialty services use the surgical day care unit, although the number of cases suitable for ambulatory surgical treatment varies greatly on the various services. There have been no deaths and about 1% of patients have been admitted to the hospital from the surgical day care unit for a variety of reasons that are summarized.", "PMID": 435038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2493", "title": "Alteration of oxygen tension and oxyhemoglobin saturation. A hazard of sodium bicarbonate administration.", "content": "The administration of sodium bicarbonate solution, which has been advocated for the treatment of metabolic acidosis, may have detrimental side effects. We evaluated oxyhemoglobin saturation and oxygen tensions in eight anesthetized swine before and after freshwater near-drowning and after a rapid intravenous infusion of 7.5% sodium bicarbonate solution (8 mEq/kg). After freshwater aspiration, arterial and venous oxygen tensions and oxyhemoglobin saturation decreased. Administration of sodium bicarbonate resulted in decreased venous and increased arterial, oxygen tensions. Arterial, but not venous, oxyhemoglobin saturation increased. These findings suggest that sodium bicarbonate caused a distinct leftward shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve, which could impair tissue oxygenation. Therefore, to avoid detrimental effects, sodium bicarbonate should be administered slowly and in a dose sufficient just to correct metabolic acidosis.", "contents": "Alteration of oxygen tension and oxyhemoglobin saturation. A hazard of sodium bicarbonate administration. The administration of sodium bicarbonate solution, which has been advocated for the treatment of metabolic acidosis, may have detrimental side effects. We evaluated oxyhemoglobin saturation and oxygen tensions in eight anesthetized swine before and after freshwater near-drowning and after a rapid intravenous infusion of 7.5% sodium bicarbonate solution (8 mEq/kg). After freshwater aspiration, arterial and venous oxygen tensions and oxyhemoglobin saturation decreased. Administration of sodium bicarbonate resulted in decreased venous and increased arterial, oxygen tensions. Arterial, but not venous, oxyhemoglobin saturation increased. These findings suggest that sodium bicarbonate caused a distinct leftward shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve, which could impair tissue oxygenation. Therefore, to avoid detrimental effects, sodium bicarbonate should be administered slowly and in a dose sufficient just to correct metabolic acidosis.", "PMID": 435039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2494", "title": "Gastric tissue prostaglandin levels. Effect of vagotomy.", "content": "To determine tissue prostaglandin levels in antrum and fundus and to examine the effect of vagotomy and distention on tissue prostaglandin levels, truncal and parietal cell vagotomies were performed on rats that were killed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively with antral and fundic prostaglandin E1 levels being determined. The fundus has considerably higher levels of prostaglandin than the antrum. No differences after any type of vagotomy however, were noted. It cannot be concluded from this study that increased prostaglandin levels result from vagotomy.", "contents": "Gastric tissue prostaglandin levels. Effect of vagotomy. To determine tissue prostaglandin levels in antrum and fundus and to examine the effect of vagotomy and distention on tissue prostaglandin levels, truncal and parietal cell vagotomies were performed on rats that were killed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively with antral and fundic prostaglandin E1 levels being determined. The fundus has considerably higher levels of prostaglandin than the antrum. No differences after any type of vagotomy however, were noted. It cannot be concluded from this study that increased prostaglandin levels result from vagotomy.", "PMID": 435040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2495", "title": "Gallstone perforation and obstruction of the duodenal bulb.", "content": "A 69-year-old woman had a large gallstone eroded through the wall of the gallbladder and into the duodenum. The gallstone became fixed within the cholecystoduodenal fistula and produced a duodenal obstruction. At the time of the diagnosis of this problem, the patient had had a three-week period of epigastric pain and prolonged vomiting. She was treated by removal of the stone and cholecystectomy. The duodenal fistula was closed in two layers, and a gastrojejunostomy and a truncal vagotomy were carried out to protect the duodenal suture line. A leak from the duodenal closure developed on the fourth day, but this subsided spontaneously after 15 days with the use of sump drainage. Six months later, the patient is doing well and has a normal duodenum and gastrojejunostomy as shown by upper gastrointestinal barium study.", "contents": "Gallstone perforation and obstruction of the duodenal bulb. A 69-year-old woman had a large gallstone eroded through the wall of the gallbladder and into the duodenum. The gallstone became fixed within the cholecystoduodenal fistula and produced a duodenal obstruction. At the time of the diagnosis of this problem, the patient had had a three-week period of epigastric pain and prolonged vomiting. She was treated by removal of the stone and cholecystectomy. The duodenal fistula was closed in two layers, and a gastrojejunostomy and a truncal vagotomy were carried out to protect the duodenal suture line. A leak from the duodenal closure developed on the fourth day, but this subsided spontaneously after 15 days with the use of sump drainage. Six months later, the patient is doing well and has a normal duodenum and gastrojejunostomy as shown by upper gastrointestinal barium study.", "PMID": 435041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2496", "title": "The impact of prophylactic measures on fatal pulmonary embolism.", "content": "Prompted by reviews showing no significant reduction in the overall incidence of fatal pulmonary embolism in recent years, we examined the incidence of this complication found on autopsy over the 15-year period between 1960 and 1974 in a Veterans Administration Hospital. During the first six years, when no specific prophylactic measures were practiced, 41 patients died of pulmonary embolism on the surgical service; whereas in the last nine years, when dextrans were used prophylactically in high-risk patients, 24 patients had fatal pulmonary embolisms. Of these 24 patients, 21 did not receive the recommended dosages of dextran. There were no significant differences in the average annual number of admissions and major operations, or in the rate of autopsy, between the two periods. We conclude that the prophylactic use of dextran in high-risk surgical patients is a practical, effective, and safe method to reduce the overall mortality from pulmonary embolism.", "contents": "The impact of prophylactic measures on fatal pulmonary embolism. Prompted by reviews showing no significant reduction in the overall incidence of fatal pulmonary embolism in recent years, we examined the incidence of this complication found on autopsy over the 15-year period between 1960 and 1974 in a Veterans Administration Hospital. During the first six years, when no specific prophylactic measures were practiced, 41 patients died of pulmonary embolism on the surgical service; whereas in the last nine years, when dextrans were used prophylactically in high-risk patients, 24 patients had fatal pulmonary embolisms. Of these 24 patients, 21 did not receive the recommended dosages of dextran. There were no significant differences in the average annual number of admissions and major operations, or in the rate of autopsy, between the two periods. We conclude that the prophylactic use of dextran in high-risk surgical patients is a practical, effective, and safe method to reduce the overall mortality from pulmonary embolism.", "PMID": 435051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2497", "title": "White clot syndrome. Peripheral vascular complications of heparin therapy.", "content": "Heparin sodium-induced thrombosis is insidious and difficult to diagnose. If untreated, it results in death or major amputation. We have treated seven patients with thromboses resulting from platelet aggregation induced by heparin. Four patients had acute arterial ischemia of the lower extremity, venous gangrene developed in two, and one patient had an occluded autogenous vein femoral popliteal bypass in the immediate postoperative period. The platelet count was noticeably reduced in affected patients. White platelet thrombi were noted in four patients, three of whom had acute arterial occlusion. A white thrombus was the cause of immediate failure of a femoral popliteal graft. Electron microscopic examination of these thrombi demonstrated predominantly fibrin platelet aggregates with an occasional entrapped WBC and a rare RBC. All patients receiving heparin therapy must have platelet counts performed regularly. If thrombocytopenia is detected, platelet aggregation studies are indicated. When abnormal platelet aggregation is noted, heparin therapy should be reversed with protamine sulfate and the patient treated with low-molecular-weight dextran and warfarin sodium.", "contents": "White clot syndrome. Peripheral vascular complications of heparin therapy. Heparin sodium-induced thrombosis is insidious and difficult to diagnose. If untreated, it results in death or major amputation. We have treated seven patients with thromboses resulting from platelet aggregation induced by heparin. Four patients had acute arterial ischemia of the lower extremity, venous gangrene developed in two, and one patient had an occluded autogenous vein femoral popliteal bypass in the immediate postoperative period. The platelet count was noticeably reduced in affected patients. White platelet thrombi were noted in four patients, three of whom had acute arterial occlusion. A white thrombus was the cause of immediate failure of a femoral popliteal graft. Electron microscopic examination of these thrombi demonstrated predominantly fibrin platelet aggregates with an occasional entrapped WBC and a rare RBC. All patients receiving heparin therapy must have platelet counts performed regularly. If thrombocytopenia is detected, platelet aggregation studies are indicated. When abnormal platelet aggregation is noted, heparin therapy should be reversed with protamine sulfate and the patient treated with low-molecular-weight dextran and warfarin sodium.", "PMID": 435052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2498", "title": "Altered coagulation after albumin supplements for treatment of oligemic shock.", "content": "Coagulation and need for postoperative blood and plasma therapy were studied in 94 injured patients requiring massive transfusions (average = 14.4); 46 patients, by random selection, received supplemental albumin. Albumin therapy increased total protein concentration (6.4 vs 5.8 g/dL), serum albumin level (4.2 vs 2.9 g/dL), and plasma volume (3,895 vs 3,579 mL) but not RBC volume (1,520 vs 1,530 mL). During the initial five postoperative days, patients receiving albumin required more transfusions (7.1 vs 3.8) and plasma (455 vs 317 mL). This increased need for blood and plasma correlated with a significant decrease in fibrinogen (238 vs 405 mg/dL) and prolongation of the prothrombin time (2.6 vs 1.4 seconds). The partial thromboplastin time was prolonged and the platelet concentration was decreased in albumin-treated patients, but not significantly. Deficiencies in specific coagulation factors have not yet been identified but are being studied. Impaired coagulation is another potential hazard of supplemental albumin therapy, which is probably contraindicated in injured patients.", "contents": "Altered coagulation after albumin supplements for treatment of oligemic shock. Coagulation and need for postoperative blood and plasma therapy were studied in 94 injured patients requiring massive transfusions (average = 14.4); 46 patients, by random selection, received supplemental albumin. Albumin therapy increased total protein concentration (6.4 vs 5.8 g/dL), serum albumin level (4.2 vs 2.9 g/dL), and plasma volume (3,895 vs 3,579 mL) but not RBC volume (1,520 vs 1,530 mL). During the initial five postoperative days, patients receiving albumin required more transfusions (7.1 vs 3.8) and plasma (455 vs 317 mL). This increased need for blood and plasma correlated with a significant decrease in fibrinogen (238 vs 405 mg/dL) and prolongation of the prothrombin time (2.6 vs 1.4 seconds). The partial thromboplastin time was prolonged and the platelet concentration was decreased in albumin-treated patients, but not significantly. Deficiencies in specific coagulation factors have not yet been identified but are being studied. Impaired coagulation is another potential hazard of supplemental albumin therapy, which is probably contraindicated in injured patients.", "PMID": 435053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2499", "title": "Vascular access: long-term results, new techniques.", "content": "Effective approaches to unique problems of vascular access in renal failure have evolved from a five-year experience with 840 angioaccess procedures. Standard techniques plus innovations have required only 0.62 operations per year per patient with an average access life of 1.6 years. Classical forearm external arteriovenous (AV) cannulas and internal AV fistulas provided vascular access in 392 patients, while 61 required more complex procedures due to failure of primary cannulas and fistulas, inherently small forearm vessels, and iatrogenic vessel loss. Secondary techniques include reverse fistula, vascular graft AV fistulas using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (E-PTFE), and arterioarterial (AA) jump graft. Presently, the new renal failure patient receives a forearm radiocephalic AV fistula; the cannula is restricted to emergency or short-term hemodialysis and may later be converted to a subcutaneous fistula. The reverse fistula is attempted before using E-PTFE grafts. Upper extremity AV and AA loops can then be constructed de novo or from the reverse fistula.", "contents": "Vascular access: long-term results, new techniques. Effective approaches to unique problems of vascular access in renal failure have evolved from a five-year experience with 840 angioaccess procedures. Standard techniques plus innovations have required only 0.62 operations per year per patient with an average access life of 1.6 years. Classical forearm external arteriovenous (AV) cannulas and internal AV fistulas provided vascular access in 392 patients, while 61 required more complex procedures due to failure of primary cannulas and fistulas, inherently small forearm vessels, and iatrogenic vessel loss. Secondary techniques include reverse fistula, vascular graft AV fistulas using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (E-PTFE), and arterioarterial (AA) jump graft. Presently, the new renal failure patient receives a forearm radiocephalic AV fistula; the cannula is restricted to emergency or short-term hemodialysis and may later be converted to a subcutaneous fistula. The reverse fistula is attempted before using E-PTFE grafts. Upper extremity AV and AA loops can then be constructed de novo or from the reverse fistula.", "PMID": 435054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2500", "title": "The Hartmann procedure for complications of diverticulitis.", "content": "A Hartmann procedure was performed on 25 patients with complications of acute diverticulitis. Of the 20 patients in whom both stages were completed, 14 had a smooth course. Total hospitalization for both stages averaged 23 days. Mortality was 8%. The initial resection usually is not difficult. Subsequent reanastomosis is facilitated by an interval of at least three months between stages. The advantages of the Hartmann procedure are as follows: (1) The diseased bowel is removed at the first stage. (2) The risk of primary anastomosis is avoided. (3) Hospitalization and overall time of treatment are reduced. (4) Mortality is relatively low. The Hartmann procedure should be considered for a broader selection of patients with complications of acute diverticulitis.", "contents": "The Hartmann procedure for complications of diverticulitis. A Hartmann procedure was performed on 25 patients with complications of acute diverticulitis. Of the 20 patients in whom both stages were completed, 14 had a smooth course. Total hospitalization for both stages averaged 23 days. Mortality was 8%. The initial resection usually is not difficult. Subsequent reanastomosis is facilitated by an interval of at least three months between stages. The advantages of the Hartmann procedure are as follows: (1) The diseased bowel is removed at the first stage. (2) The risk of primary anastomosis is avoided. (3) Hospitalization and overall time of treatment are reduced. (4) Mortality is relatively low. The Hartmann procedure should be considered for a broader selection of patients with complications of acute diverticulitis.", "PMID": 435055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2501", "title": "Diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy. A critical review of 662 examinations.", "content": "The results of 662 therapeutic and diagnostic colonoscopic examinations were reviewed to assess the morbidity, clinical benefit, diagnostic accuracy, and indications for the procedure, with special emphasis on detection and endoscopic excision of small, occult, invasive cancers. Overall, the frequency of detecting occult lesions (19%), the (89%) ability to clarify questionable radiographic findings, and a substantial reduction in laparotomy-colotomy procedures required for removal of colonic polyps (88%), coupled with a low morbidity (3%) and low false-negative examination rate (1%) established colonoscopy as one of the most important advances in the management of colon disease in recent years. Although early experience suggests that small, occult, invasive carcinomas, when properly selected, could be adequately treated by endoscopic excision, larger series and longer follow-up periods are necessary to validate any conclusions regarding the decision to manage these lesions conservatively.", "contents": "Diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy. A critical review of 662 examinations. The results of 662 therapeutic and diagnostic colonoscopic examinations were reviewed to assess the morbidity, clinical benefit, diagnostic accuracy, and indications for the procedure, with special emphasis on detection and endoscopic excision of small, occult, invasive cancers. Overall, the frequency of detecting occult lesions (19%), the (89%) ability to clarify questionable radiographic findings, and a substantial reduction in laparotomy-colotomy procedures required for removal of colonic polyps (88%), coupled with a low morbidity (3%) and low false-negative examination rate (1%) established colonoscopy as one of the most important advances in the management of colon disease in recent years. Although early experience suggests that small, occult, invasive carcinomas, when properly selected, could be adequately treated by endoscopic excision, larger series and longer follow-up periods are necessary to validate any conclusions regarding the decision to manage these lesions conservatively.", "PMID": 435056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2502", "title": "Gastric bypass in the operative revision of the failed jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "Fifty-five patients with failed jejunoileal bypasses underwent reanastomosis and gastric bypass at the same operation. One patient died of undetermined cause three months postoperatively. The 54 surviving patients were all relieved of their preoperative symptoms, and 40 patients achieved satisfactory weight control. Technical complications prevented weight loss in 13 patients: four were given pouches too large to be effective, and nine had late disruption of the staple line. Two patients gained weight despite the fact that their pouches were of appropriate size. Reanastomosis will reverse the side effects of jejunoileal bypass, and a properly performed gastric bypass at the same operation will afford protection against subsequent weight gain.", "contents": "Gastric bypass in the operative revision of the failed jejunoileal bypass. Fifty-five patients with failed jejunoileal bypasses underwent reanastomosis and gastric bypass at the same operation. One patient died of undetermined cause three months postoperatively. The 54 surviving patients were all relieved of their preoperative symptoms, and 40 patients achieved satisfactory weight control. Technical complications prevented weight loss in 13 patients: four were given pouches too large to be effective, and nine had late disruption of the staple line. Two patients gained weight despite the fact that their pouches were of appropriate size. Reanastomosis will reverse the side effects of jejunoileal bypass, and a properly performed gastric bypass at the same operation will afford protection against subsequent weight gain.", "PMID": 435057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2503", "title": "Systems of trauma care. A study of two counties.", "content": "Cases of motor vehicle trauma victims who died after arrival at a hospital were evaluated in both Orange County (90 cases) and in San Francisco County (92 cases), Calif. All victims in San Francisco County were brought to a single trauma center, while in Orange County they were transported to the closest receiving hospital. Approximately two thirds of the non-CNS-related deaths and one third of the CNS-related deaths in Orange County were judged by the authors as potentially preventable; only one death in San Francisco County was so judged. Trauma victims in Orange County were younger on the average, and the magnitude of their injuries was less than for victims in the San Francisco County. We suggest that survival rates for major trauma can be improved by an organized system of trauma care that includes the resources of a trauma center.", "contents": "Systems of trauma care. A study of two counties. Cases of motor vehicle trauma victims who died after arrival at a hospital were evaluated in both Orange County (90 cases) and in San Francisco County (92 cases), Calif. All victims in San Francisco County were brought to a single trauma center, while in Orange County they were transported to the closest receiving hospital. Approximately two thirds of the non-CNS-related deaths and one third of the CNS-related deaths in Orange County were judged by the authors as potentially preventable; only one death in San Francisco County was so judged. Trauma victims in Orange County were younger on the average, and the magnitude of their injuries was less than for victims in the San Francisco County. We suggest that survival rates for major trauma can be improved by an organized system of trauma care that includes the resources of a trauma center.", "PMID": 435058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2504", "title": "Creatinine clearance in critically ill surgical patients.", "content": "Standard tests of renal function (urine output, BUN, and serum creatinine) were compared with creatinine clearance values and with outcome in 131 critically ill surgical patients. There was a strong negative relationship between creatinine clearance and mortality. Of the 23 patients with a severe reduction of creatinine clearance (less than 20 mL/min), 17 died. In contrast, 23 of the 24 patients with a creatinine clearance of 100 mL/min or more survived. Urine output, BUN, and serum creatinine levels correlated poorly with creatinine clearance. A urine output of less than 30 mL/hr, a BUN level greater than 40 mg/dL, and a serum creatinine level greater than 2.0 mg/dL in all instances were associated with reduced creatinine clearances. However, more than half of all the patients with a normal urine output, BUN, or serum creatinine levels also had a reduced creatinine clearance.", "contents": "Creatinine clearance in critically ill surgical patients. Standard tests of renal function (urine output, BUN, and serum creatinine) were compared with creatinine clearance values and with outcome in 131 critically ill surgical patients. There was a strong negative relationship between creatinine clearance and mortality. Of the 23 patients with a severe reduction of creatinine clearance (less than 20 mL/min), 17 died. In contrast, 23 of the 24 patients with a creatinine clearance of 100 mL/min or more survived. Urine output, BUN, and serum creatinine levels correlated poorly with creatinine clearance. A urine output of less than 30 mL/hr, a BUN level greater than 40 mg/dL, and a serum creatinine level greater than 2.0 mg/dL in all instances were associated with reduced creatinine clearances. However, more than half of all the patients with a normal urine output, BUN, or serum creatinine levels also had a reduced creatinine clearance.", "PMID": 435059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2505", "title": "Multiple adenomas of the parathyroids: do they exist?", "content": "Since Cope's original description of chief cell hyperplasia in 1958, there has been general agreement that this entity is the most common cause of multiple parathyroid enlargement. Whether or not multiple adenomas of the parathyroid glands ever occur has been seriously questioned. Criteria are proposed for defining the entity of multiple parathyroid adenomas in contrast with hyperplasia. With the use of these criteria, five patients with multiple adenomas were found in our last 300 cases of primary hyperparathyroidism.", "contents": "Multiple adenomas of the parathyroids: do they exist? Since Cope's original description of chief cell hyperplasia in 1958, there has been general agreement that this entity is the most common cause of multiple parathyroid enlargement. Whether or not multiple adenomas of the parathyroid glands ever occur has been seriously questioned. Criteria are proposed for defining the entity of multiple parathyroid adenomas in contrast with hyperplasia. With the use of these criteria, five patients with multiple adenomas were found in our last 300 cases of primary hyperparathyroidism.", "PMID": 435060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2506", "title": "Cancer of the parathyroid glands.", "content": "Hyperfunctioning parathyroid carcinoma is a relatively rare endocrine tumor, accounting for approximately 1% of all cases of primary hyperparathyroidism. The diagnosis is suspected when the tumor is large, parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels are high, and a palpable tumor is present in the neck. Patients who have recurrence of hyperparathyroidism several months after surgical treatment should be suspected of having a recurrent or persistent parathyroid carcinoma. At operation, a large invasive tumor is usually found. The fibrous, inflammatory-like reaction is the most characteristic indication of malignancy. Even in tumors with minimal invasiveness, the possibility of a carcinoma should be considered if the tumor has mitotic activity and a monotonous instead of a pleomorphic cellular population. If the surgeon can recognize the possibility of parathyroid malignancy and adequately treat the patient during the initial operation, more gratifying results should be obtained.", "contents": "Cancer of the parathyroid glands. Hyperfunctioning parathyroid carcinoma is a relatively rare endocrine tumor, accounting for approximately 1% of all cases of primary hyperparathyroidism. The diagnosis is suspected when the tumor is large, parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels are high, and a palpable tumor is present in the neck. Patients who have recurrence of hyperparathyroidism several months after surgical treatment should be suspected of having a recurrent or persistent parathyroid carcinoma. At operation, a large invasive tumor is usually found. The fibrous, inflammatory-like reaction is the most characteristic indication of malignancy. Even in tumors with minimal invasiveness, the possibility of a carcinoma should be considered if the tumor has mitotic activity and a monotonous instead of a pleomorphic cellular population. If the surgeon can recognize the possibility of parathyroid malignancy and adequately treat the patient during the initial operation, more gratifying results should be obtained.", "PMID": 435061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2507", "title": "The continued importance of adrenalectomy in the treatment of Cushing's disease.", "content": "Eighteen patients with pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease have been treated during a ten-year period. Eleven of these received a total of 14 alternative forms of therapy in an attempt to control the clinical manifestations of Cushing's disease prior to adrenalectomy. However, no substantial improvement was noted in these patients, who included four receiving conventional pituitary irradiation, five receiving cyproheptadine, two receiving mitotane, and one each receiving metyrapone and phenytoin. One patient had an attempted transsphenoidal hypophysectomy that could not be accomplished because of hemorrhage. A complete remission of the signs, symptoms, and laboratory abnormalities of Cushing's disease occurred in all 18 patients following bilateral adrenalectomy. There was no operative mortality and morbidity was minimal. This experience confirms that bilateral adrenalectomy is a rapid, safe, and permanent means of reversing hypercortisolism and that it should remain an integral part of the treatment of Cushing's disease.", "contents": "The continued importance of adrenalectomy in the treatment of Cushing's disease. Eighteen patients with pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease have been treated during a ten-year period. Eleven of these received a total of 14 alternative forms of therapy in an attempt to control the clinical manifestations of Cushing's disease prior to adrenalectomy. However, no substantial improvement was noted in these patients, who included four receiving conventional pituitary irradiation, five receiving cyproheptadine, two receiving mitotane, and one each receiving metyrapone and phenytoin. One patient had an attempted transsphenoidal hypophysectomy that could not be accomplished because of hemorrhage. A complete remission of the signs, symptoms, and laboratory abnormalities of Cushing's disease occurred in all 18 patients following bilateral adrenalectomy. There was no operative mortality and morbidity was minimal. This experience confirms that bilateral adrenalectomy is a rapid, safe, and permanent means of reversing hypercortisolism and that it should remain an integral part of the treatment of Cushing's disease.", "PMID": 435062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2508", "title": "Experience with lobular carcinoma of the breast. Emphasis on recent aspects of management.", "content": "A total of 105 patients with lobular carcinoma of the breast were seen at two hospitals between 1966 and 1978. Mammography was found to be of limited value in the preoperative assessment of these patients. As reported by others, there was a high incidence of bilateral lobular neoplasia. In the patients with lobular carcinoma in situ for whom follow-up data were available, all were alive and well. In contrast to this, infiltrating lobular carcinoma was found to be as malignant a lesion as any other infiltrating breast cancer regardless of the operative procedure performed. These latter tumors were found to bind substantial levels of estrogen receptor proteins. From the information gained, it is suggested that early hormonal manipulation and/or chemotherapy may be advantageous in the patient with recurrent infiltrating lobular carcinoma in particular.", "contents": "Experience with lobular carcinoma of the breast. Emphasis on recent aspects of management. A total of 105 patients with lobular carcinoma of the breast were seen at two hospitals between 1966 and 1978. Mammography was found to be of limited value in the preoperative assessment of these patients. As reported by others, there was a high incidence of bilateral lobular neoplasia. In the patients with lobular carcinoma in situ for whom follow-up data were available, all were alive and well. In contrast to this, infiltrating lobular carcinoma was found to be as malignant a lesion as any other infiltrating breast cancer regardless of the operative procedure performed. These latter tumors were found to bind substantial levels of estrogen receptor proteins. From the information gained, it is suggested that early hormonal manipulation and/or chemotherapy may be advantageous in the patient with recurrent infiltrating lobular carcinoma in particular.", "PMID": 435063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2509", "title": "Reoperation for pancreatic cancer.", "content": "Over an eight-year period, 24 patients were referred following laparotomy at various community hospitals where their conditions had been diagnosed as \"incurable pancreatic cancer.\" Seventeen of these patients' conditions were reevaluated and they underwent exploratory surgery again. In two patients, no cancer was found in spite of multiple biopsies. Nine patients underwent total pancreatectomy with no operative deaths, and two of them had localized primary ampullary cancer. Eleven of these 17 patients have survived 1 1/2 to six years. We conclude that reoperation in selected cases in which the condition was diagnosed as \"inoperable pancreatic cancer\" can have an appreciable salvage rate. We suggest that pancreatic exploration with a view to resection should be performed only in specialty centers where there is interest and expertise in the problem.", "contents": "Reoperation for pancreatic cancer. Over an eight-year period, 24 patients were referred following laparotomy at various community hospitals where their conditions had been diagnosed as \"incurable pancreatic cancer.\" Seventeen of these patients' conditions were reevaluated and they underwent exploratory surgery again. In two patients, no cancer was found in spite of multiple biopsies. Nine patients underwent total pancreatectomy with no operative deaths, and two of them had localized primary ampullary cancer. Eleven of these 17 patients have survived 1 1/2 to six years. We conclude that reoperation in selected cases in which the condition was diagnosed as \"inoperable pancreatic cancer\" can have an appreciable salvage rate. We suggest that pancreatic exploration with a view to resection should be performed only in specialty centers where there is interest and expertise in the problem.", "PMID": 435064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2510", "title": "Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children. Diagnosis and management.", "content": "Eighty-three infants and children underwent surgical correction of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) from 1973 to 1978. Fifty-four patients had coexistent brain damage (most commonly due to cerebral palsy), eight were previously treated for esophageal atresia, and four had gastroschisis or omphalocele repair. Clinical presentation included failure to thrive in 64 patients, vomiting in 59, and recurrent bouts of aspiration pneumonitis in 43. Barium roentgenography showed GER in 61 patients, whereas additional tests (particularly pH monitoring) were required for detection of GER in 22 patients. After failure of medical management, transabdominal Nissen fundoplication was performed in 80 cases and a Hill repair in three cases. The surgical mortality was zero, but there were five late deaths. Results were considered excellent in 54 patients, good in 22 patients, and poor in seven. Ten of 12 patients with preoperative stricture responded to dilation after fundoplication. Nissen fundoplication was a safe and effective antireflux procedure in 76 of the 83 cases.", "contents": "Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children. Diagnosis and management. Eighty-three infants and children underwent surgical correction of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) from 1973 to 1978. Fifty-four patients had coexistent brain damage (most commonly due to cerebral palsy), eight were previously treated for esophageal atresia, and four had gastroschisis or omphalocele repair. Clinical presentation included failure to thrive in 64 patients, vomiting in 59, and recurrent bouts of aspiration pneumonitis in 43. Barium roentgenography showed GER in 61 patients, whereas additional tests (particularly pH monitoring) were required for detection of GER in 22 patients. After failure of medical management, transabdominal Nissen fundoplication was performed in 80 cases and a Hill repair in three cases. The surgical mortality was zero, but there were five late deaths. Results were considered excellent in 54 patients, good in 22 patients, and poor in seven. Ten of 12 patients with preoperative stricture responded to dilation after fundoplication. Nissen fundoplication was a safe and effective antireflux procedure in 76 of the 83 cases.", "PMID": 435065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2511", "title": "Reassessment of simple cholecystostomy.", "content": "Cholecystostomy was performed on 22 patients with acute cholecystitis after partial (13) or complete (9) removal of gallbladder stones. One patient had complementary common-duct drainage. Early mortality occurred in two patients. Three patients with associated cholangitis but intraoperative reflux of cysticduct bile were all treated by cholecystostomy alone and survived. For the poor-risk patient with cholecystitis, cholecystostomy is effective. When there is associated cholangitis and documented cystic-duct patency, cholecystostomy is also sufficient. When accompanying cholangitis is associated with cystic-duct occlusion, choledochotomy and T tube drainage should be added.", "contents": "Reassessment of simple cholecystostomy. Cholecystostomy was performed on 22 patients with acute cholecystitis after partial (13) or complete (9) removal of gallbladder stones. One patient had complementary common-duct drainage. Early mortality occurred in two patients. Three patients with associated cholangitis but intraoperative reflux of cysticduct bile were all treated by cholecystostomy alone and survived. For the poor-risk patient with cholecystitis, cholecystostomy is effective. When there is associated cholangitis and documented cystic-duct patency, cholecystostomy is also sufficient. When accompanying cholangitis is associated with cystic-duct occlusion, choledochotomy and T tube drainage should be added.", "PMID": 435066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2512", "title": "Biliary decompression in hilar obstruction. Round ligament approach.", "content": "In some patients with biliary obstruction, access to the hepatic hilus is hindered by extensive tumor or by dense vascular scar tissue. In such patients, the biliary tract may be decompressed via the left hepatic duct away from the affected hilus. Access to the left hepatic duct in the left intersegmental plane is gained by dividing the round ligament, freeing it from the undersurface of the liver, and following it to its junction with the left portal vein. The left hepatic duct, which lies superior to the vein, is exposed by dividing the liver overlying the round ligament in the relatively avascular plane between the lateral and the medial segments of the left hepatic lobe. Decompression can be effected by simple tube drainage or, if the duct is large enough, by Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy.", "contents": "Biliary decompression in hilar obstruction. Round ligament approach. In some patients with biliary obstruction, access to the hepatic hilus is hindered by extensive tumor or by dense vascular scar tissue. In such patients, the biliary tract may be decompressed via the left hepatic duct away from the affected hilus. Access to the left hepatic duct in the left intersegmental plane is gained by dividing the round ligament, freeing it from the undersurface of the liver, and following it to its junction with the left portal vein. The left hepatic duct, which lies superior to the vein, is exposed by dividing the liver overlying the round ligament in the relatively avascular plane between the lateral and the medial segments of the left hepatic lobe. Decompression can be effected by simple tube drainage or, if the duct is large enough, by Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy.", "PMID": 435067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2513", "title": "Esophageal atresia. A 41-year experience.", "content": "Since the first attempted repair in 1935, a total of 365 infants have undergone treatment for esophageal atresia with or without tracheoesophageal fistula. To evaluate the improvement in our results, we have divided our patients into four, approximately equal, time periods. The overall late survival has indeed improved during each of the four decades from between 36% and 53% to 68% in the last ten years. During this past decade, the group A risk infants (35 patients) had a 3% mortality, the group B (20 patients) had a 5% mortality, but the group C babies (22 patients) had a 41% mortality due to associated anomalies or severe prematurity. Anastomotic leaks and recurrent fistulas were each encountered in approximately 5% of the cases in all decades. Postoperative stricture has been encountered in 20% of the entire series and no esophageal replacements have been required.", "contents": "Esophageal atresia. A 41-year experience. Since the first attempted repair in 1935, a total of 365 infants have undergone treatment for esophageal atresia with or without tracheoesophageal fistula. To evaluate the improvement in our results, we have divided our patients into four, approximately equal, time periods. The overall late survival has indeed improved during each of the four decades from between 36% and 53% to 68% in the last ten years. During this past decade, the group A risk infants (35 patients) had a 3% mortality, the group B (20 patients) had a 5% mortality, but the group C babies (22 patients) had a 41% mortality due to associated anomalies or severe prematurity. Anastomotic leaks and recurrent fistulas were each encountered in approximately 5% of the cases in all decades. Postoperative stricture has been encountered in 20% of the entire series and no esophageal replacements have been required.", "PMID": 435068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2514", "title": "Our first 35 patients studied five years after parietal cell vagotomy.", "content": "Parietal cell vagotomy without drainage (PCV) was performed on 35 patients. The patients were evaluated at regular intervals for 60 months. A recurrent ulcer developed in four patients. One patient was reoperated on, one patient refused an operation, and in two patients, the ulcers healed and remained healed for four years after withdrawal of ulcerogenic drugs. Another patient was reoperated on for pyloric obstruction. Diarrhea was reported by no more than one patient at any reporting period. The number of patients who reported dumping at the various time periods ranged from two to four. At the time of each patient's last interview, 33 were considered to have excellent or good results. PCV is a safe and effective operation for treatment of duodenal ulcer. Instructions in the technique are necessary to avoid errors that might unnecessarily occur and lead to poor results with first operations.", "contents": "Our first 35 patients studied five years after parietal cell vagotomy. Parietal cell vagotomy without drainage (PCV) was performed on 35 patients. The patients were evaluated at regular intervals for 60 months. A recurrent ulcer developed in four patients. One patient was reoperated on, one patient refused an operation, and in two patients, the ulcers healed and remained healed for four years after withdrawal of ulcerogenic drugs. Another patient was reoperated on for pyloric obstruction. Diarrhea was reported by no more than one patient at any reporting period. The number of patients who reported dumping at the various time periods ranged from two to four. At the time of each patient's last interview, 33 were considered to have excellent or good results. PCV is a safe and effective operation for treatment of duodenal ulcer. Instructions in the technique are necessary to avoid errors that might unnecessarily occur and lead to poor results with first operations.", "PMID": 435069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2515", "title": "Effective surgical therapy of esophagitis. Experience with Belsey, Hill, and Nissen operations.", "content": "During the years 1971 to 1978, 252 patients needed surgical treatment of primary or secondary esophagitis. Major operations performed were 73 Belsey Mark IV repairs, 55 Hill repairs, and 129 Nissen repairs. In the group with primary reflux, barium swallow tests and endoscopy were useful in confirming the diagnosis in patients with typical symptoms; routine biopsy, lower esophageal sphincter, manometry or an acid infusion test did not add to diagnostic certitude. If symptoms were atypical, a biopsy was helpful but manometry and acid infusion were not. Mean symptom scores in this group of patients were improved by each of the \"valve-building\" operations. Intraoperative dilation after mobilization of the esophagus coupled with a valve-building operation was successful in managing 26 of 29 strictures. Reoperation after an operation failed carried appreciable morbidity and mortality but resulted in good control of symptoms. Addition of a Belsey or Nissen procedure to myotomy for management of primary esophageal motility disorders diminished symptoms and did not cause disabling obstruction.", "contents": "Effective surgical therapy of esophagitis. Experience with Belsey, Hill, and Nissen operations. During the years 1971 to 1978, 252 patients needed surgical treatment of primary or secondary esophagitis. Major operations performed were 73 Belsey Mark IV repairs, 55 Hill repairs, and 129 Nissen repairs. In the group with primary reflux, barium swallow tests and endoscopy were useful in confirming the diagnosis in patients with typical symptoms; routine biopsy, lower esophageal sphincter, manometry or an acid infusion test did not add to diagnostic certitude. If symptoms were atypical, a biopsy was helpful but manometry and acid infusion were not. Mean symptom scores in this group of patients were improved by each of the \"valve-building\" operations. Intraoperative dilation after mobilization of the esophagus coupled with a valve-building operation was successful in managing 26 of 29 strictures. Reoperation after an operation failed carried appreciable morbidity and mortality but resulted in good control of symptoms. Addition of a Belsey or Nissen procedure to myotomy for management of primary esophageal motility disorders diminished symptoms and did not cause disabling obstruction.", "PMID": 435070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2516", "title": "Reoperation for disruption and recurrence after Nissen fundoplication.", "content": "This report deals with 25 failed Nissen operations. A method of classifying the type of failure is presented. Manometric studies document disordered motor activity in ten of these patients with return to normal activity after repair. With these difficult patients, intraoperative manometrics allowed a satisfactory antireflux barrier to be created with posterior gastropexy. Good to excellent results were achieved in 22 of 24 patients. A search of the world literature is presented with complications ranging from the well-known \"gas-bloat\" syndrome to potentially lethal fistulas.", "contents": "Reoperation for disruption and recurrence after Nissen fundoplication. This report deals with 25 failed Nissen operations. A method of classifying the type of failure is presented. Manometric studies document disordered motor activity in ten of these patients with return to normal activity after repair. With these difficult patients, intraoperative manometrics allowed a satisfactory antireflux barrier to be created with posterior gastropexy. Good to excellent results were achieved in 22 of 24 patients. A search of the world literature is presented with complications ranging from the well-known \"gas-bloat\" syndrome to potentially lethal fistulas.", "PMID": 435071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2517", "title": "Alkylation of RNA by vinyl bromide metabolites in vitro and in vivo.", "content": "[1,2-14C]Vinyl bromide was incubated with rat liver microsomes, NADPH, and polyadenylic acid, polycytidylic acid, or RNA, respectively. Part of the adenosine moieties in RNA or in polyadenylic acid were alkylated and labelled 1,N6-ethenoadenosine structures were formed. Part of the cytidine moieties were converted into 3,N4-ethenocytidine. In addition, a further unidentified cytidine alkylation product was observed which was not seen in experiments using [1,2-14C]vinyl chloride. When rats were exposed to [1,2-14C]vinyl bromide, radioactive ethenoadenosine and ethenocytidine were present in hydrolysates of liver RNA. A further alkylation product was observed in the RNA hydrolysates which did not occur in experiments using [14C]vinyl chloride. The data show that vinyl bromide metabolites alkylate nucleic acids; although in general in this respect vinyl bromide and vinyl chloride behave similarly, some differences are observed in the alkylation behaviour of both compounds.", "contents": "Alkylation of RNA by vinyl bromide metabolites in vitro and in vivo. [1,2-14C]Vinyl bromide was incubated with rat liver microsomes, NADPH, and polyadenylic acid, polycytidylic acid, or RNA, respectively. Part of the adenosine moieties in RNA or in polyadenylic acid were alkylated and labelled 1,N6-ethenoadenosine structures were formed. Part of the cytidine moieties were converted into 3,N4-ethenocytidine. In addition, a further unidentified cytidine alkylation product was observed which was not seen in experiments using [1,2-14C]vinyl chloride. When rats were exposed to [1,2-14C]vinyl bromide, radioactive ethenoadenosine and ethenocytidine were present in hydrolysates of liver RNA. A further alkylation product was observed in the RNA hydrolysates which did not occur in experiments using [14C]vinyl chloride. The data show that vinyl bromide metabolites alkylate nucleic acids; although in general in this respect vinyl bromide and vinyl chloride behave similarly, some differences are observed in the alkylation behaviour of both compounds.", "PMID": 435077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2518", "title": "Action of N-isopropyl-alpha-(2-methylhydrazino)-p-toluamide hydrochloride (procarbazine hydrochloride) in the germ tissue of mice: dominant lethal effects.", "content": "A study was carried out on the effects of N-isopropyl-alpha-(2-methylhydrazino)-p-toluamide (procarbazine, Natulan) in the dominant lethal test in the mouse. Male mice were dosed once and mated with fresh virgin females each week. The utilization of sperm, treated as spermatids or testicular sperm with 100-800 mg/kg, resulted in significant post- and pre-implantation death of embryos. Fertility was markedly reduced after the injection of 200 mg/kg of procarbazine and over. This is probably due to a cell killing effect, the most sensitive stages being differentiating spermatogonia, type A sermatogonia and resting primary spermatocytes. Total sterility was induced for several weeks with doses of 600 and 800 mg/kg. Up to 12 weeks after treatment the number of females with implants was still significantly lower than controls indicating a severe depletion of spermatogonial cells. The spectrum of effects correlates well with the drug's effect on nucleic acid and protein synthesis.", "contents": "Action of N-isopropyl-alpha-(2-methylhydrazino)-p-toluamide hydrochloride (procarbazine hydrochloride) in the germ tissue of mice: dominant lethal effects. A study was carried out on the effects of N-isopropyl-alpha-(2-methylhydrazino)-p-toluamide (procarbazine, Natulan) in the dominant lethal test in the mouse. Male mice were dosed once and mated with fresh virgin females each week. The utilization of sperm, treated as spermatids or testicular sperm with 100-800 mg/kg, resulted in significant post- and pre-implantation death of embryos. Fertility was markedly reduced after the injection of 200 mg/kg of procarbazine and over. This is probably due to a cell killing effect, the most sensitive stages being differentiating spermatogonia, type A sermatogonia and resting primary spermatocytes. Total sterility was induced for several weeks with doses of 600 and 800 mg/kg. Up to 12 weeks after treatment the number of females with implants was still significantly lower than controls indicating a severe depletion of spermatogonial cells. The spectrum of effects correlates well with the drug's effect on nucleic acid and protein synthesis.", "PMID": 435078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2519", "title": "Lead-induced leukocytosis in female mice.", "content": "Lead acetate was shown to stimulate a striking leukocytosis in young adult female mice. The effect was manifest 4 days after lead injection and continued throughout the following 4 days. At the higher treatment level, lead induced an increase of 300% for both monocytes and neutrophils. The leukocytosis was due primarily to the elevated levels of neutrophils as suggested by a decrease in the ratios of peripheral agranulocytes to granulocytes. No differences from normal leukocyte cytology were observed in blood samples collected from animals receiving lead.", "contents": "Lead-induced leukocytosis in female mice. Lead acetate was shown to stimulate a striking leukocytosis in young adult female mice. The effect was manifest 4 days after lead injection and continued throughout the following 4 days. At the higher treatment level, lead induced an increase of 300% for both monocytes and neutrophils. The leukocytosis was due primarily to the elevated levels of neutrophils as suggested by a decrease in the ratios of peripheral agranulocytes to granulocytes. No differences from normal leukocyte cytology were observed in blood samples collected from animals receiving lead.", "PMID": 435079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2520", "title": "1,3-Bispyridinium-dimethylether mono- and dioximes: synthesis, reactivating potency and therapeutic effect in experimental poisoning by organophosphorus compounds.", "content": "Nine bispyridinium oximes containing two pyridinium rings linked by dimethylether were synthesised. Each compound had on one of the pyridinium rings a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 2 or 4, while the other ring was unsubstituted or had a methyl or a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 2 or 4. The reactivating potency and therapeutic effect of the oximes were tested on two organophosphates: O,O-dimethyl-2,2-dichlorovinylphosphate (DDVP) and O-ethyl-S-(2-diisopropylaminoethyl)-methylphosphonothioate (VX). The reactivation was measured on human erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and the therapeutic effect was evaluated on male albino rats. The oximes with a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 4 in the pyridinium ring were good reactivators of both phosphorylated and phosphonylated acetylcholinesterase. They were also very effective given together with atropine against VX and DDVP poisoning. The compounds are almost as effective as PAM-2, but PAM-2 is less toxic.", "contents": "1,3-Bispyridinium-dimethylether mono- and dioximes: synthesis, reactivating potency and therapeutic effect in experimental poisoning by organophosphorus compounds. Nine bispyridinium oximes containing two pyridinium rings linked by dimethylether were synthesised. Each compound had on one of the pyridinium rings a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 2 or 4, while the other ring was unsubstituted or had a methyl or a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 2 or 4. The reactivating potency and therapeutic effect of the oximes were tested on two organophosphates: O,O-dimethyl-2,2-dichlorovinylphosphate (DDVP) and O-ethyl-S-(2-diisopropylaminoethyl)-methylphosphonothioate (VX). The reactivation was measured on human erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and the therapeutic effect was evaluated on male albino rats. The oximes with a hydroxyiminomethyl group in position 4 in the pyridinium ring were good reactivators of both phosphorylated and phosphonylated acetylcholinesterase. They were also very effective given together with atropine against VX and DDVP poisoning. The compounds are almost as effective as PAM-2, but PAM-2 is less toxic.", "PMID": 435080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2521", "title": "The interaction between ethanol and manganese in rat brain.", "content": "The effect of combined administration of ethanol and manganese on the brain tissue of rats was investigated to evaluate the role of alcohol ingestion in inducing susceptibility to manganese poisoning. Ethanol and manganese alone and the combination of the two were administered orally daily to the rats for 30 days. Almost identical increase in the brain contents of manganese in rats receiving the metal alone and in combination with ethanol indicates that ethanol administration does not influence the accumulation of manganese in that organ. The copper contents of brain also increased to almost the same extent in these two groups. Synergistic effect of ethanol and manganese was noticed on increasing the activity of ATPase and RNase while marked antagonistic effect was observed on the activity of MAO. The mechanism and the significance of these neurochemical alterations occurring after the administration of ethanol and manganese have been discussed.", "contents": "The interaction between ethanol and manganese in rat brain. The effect of combined administration of ethanol and manganese on the brain tissue of rats was investigated to evaluate the role of alcohol ingestion in inducing susceptibility to manganese poisoning. Ethanol and manganese alone and the combination of the two were administered orally daily to the rats for 30 days. Almost identical increase in the brain contents of manganese in rats receiving the metal alone and in combination with ethanol indicates that ethanol administration does not influence the accumulation of manganese in that organ. The copper contents of brain also increased to almost the same extent in these two groups. Synergistic effect of ethanol and manganese was noticed on increasing the activity of ATPase and RNase while marked antagonistic effect was observed on the activity of MAO. The mechanism and the significance of these neurochemical alterations occurring after the administration of ethanol and manganese have been discussed.", "PMID": 435081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2522", "title": "[Nerve ultrastructure of the arteries of the brain stem].", "content": "Ultrastructure of the nerve apparatus in the arteries of the brain base has been studied in cats. The structure of peri- and adventitial nerves has been investigated electron microscopically. Three types of efferent axons and four types of synaptic vesicles (small agranular and granular, large granular, large electron opaque vesicles) have been revealed. Vesicle-containing axons in the brain arteries approach the external smooth muscle cells of about 80 nm. Terminal axonal dilatations possessing direct and mediated connections with muscular cells of the middle tunica have been revealed.", "contents": "[Nerve ultrastructure of the arteries of the brain stem]. Ultrastructure of the nerve apparatus in the arteries of the brain base has been studied in cats. The structure of peri- and adventitial nerves has been investigated electron microscopically. Three types of efferent axons and four types of synaptic vesicles (small agranular and granular, large granular, large electron opaque vesicles) have been revealed. Vesicle-containing axons in the brain arteries approach the external smooth muscle cells of about 80 nm. Terminal axonal dilatations possessing direct and mediated connections with muscular cells of the middle tunica have been revealed.", "PMID": 435082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2523", "title": "[Quantitative study of the capillaries in a secreting salivary gland (electron-microscopic and morphometric analysis)].", "content": "Regularities in structural rearrangement of epithelium of blood capillaries in the rat parotid salivary gland have been studied under various functional conditions of the organ. The data obtained demonstrate that secretion is accompanied by dilatation of anuclear segments of capillary endothelium, decreasing thickness of endotheliocytes, rise of hematocrit number by adding the total area of the capillary fenestrated surface, the form factor of intraendothelial contacts and decreasing length of the contacting cytolemmas. Since extreme values of the metrical parameters studied have been revealed during the phase of the secrete excretion, a suggestion is made that increasing hydraulic permeability of the metabolic vessels with subsequent transport of the fluid to the terminal parts of the gland create the conditions promoting to reach the threshold level of pressure in acini that is necessary to overcome high resistance of nerrow intercalated sections for the secretion to reach the ducts.", "contents": "[Quantitative study of the capillaries in a secreting salivary gland (electron-microscopic and morphometric analysis)]. Regularities in structural rearrangement of epithelium of blood capillaries in the rat parotid salivary gland have been studied under various functional conditions of the organ. The data obtained demonstrate that secretion is accompanied by dilatation of anuclear segments of capillary endothelium, decreasing thickness of endotheliocytes, rise of hematocrit number by adding the total area of the capillary fenestrated surface, the form factor of intraendothelial contacts and decreasing length of the contacting cytolemmas. Since extreme values of the metrical parameters studied have been revealed during the phase of the secrete excretion, a suggestion is made that increasing hydraulic permeability of the metabolic vessels with subsequent transport of the fluid to the terminal parts of the gland create the conditions promoting to reach the threshold level of pressure in acini that is necessary to overcome high resistance of nerrow intercalated sections for the secretion to reach the ducts.", "PMID": 435083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2524", "title": "[Effect of venous congestion on the microcirculatory bed of rat adrenal glands].", "content": "Early effect of experimentally induced venous congestion on the rat adrenals is evident in dynamical changes in the microcirculatory bed of the glands. As morphometric data demonstrate, the greatest changes take place in blood vessels of the cortical substance: the capillary diameters are dilated in all the zones, the thickness of the wall in subcapsular and capsular arterioles increases at the expense of hypertrophic smooth muscle elements. Subsequently, venous-arteriolar reaction develops, with capillary diameter approaching the initial size. The data obtained are discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of venous congestion on the microcirculatory bed of rat adrenal glands]. Early effect of experimentally induced venous congestion on the rat adrenals is evident in dynamical changes in the microcirculatory bed of the glands. As morphometric data demonstrate, the greatest changes take place in blood vessels of the cortical substance: the capillary diameters are dilated in all the zones, the thickness of the wall in subcapsular and capsular arterioles increases at the expense of hypertrophic smooth muscle elements. Subsequently, venous-arteriolar reaction develops, with capillary diameter approaching the initial size. The data obtained are discussed.", "PMID": 435084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2525", "title": "[Form of branching of pulmonary air pathways in the canine lung].", "content": "The degree of regularity in bronchial dichotomy has been studied in 5 corrosive preparations of the dog bronchial tree by the method of E. R. Weibel. It has been demonstrated that a high degree of regularity is specific for the dog lungs that makes 0.82 +/- 0.12 regarding small and large diameters. Approximation in distribution of bronchi having the diameter of 3--3.5 mm in 1--9 generations by means of binomial distribution gives a good result. The greatest bronchial rate with the diameter mentioned above has been registered in 5--7 generations. Theoretical data are presented to demonstrate the necessity in regularity of bronchial branching in order to maintain an optimal gaseous exchange in lungs.", "contents": "[Form of branching of pulmonary air pathways in the canine lung]. The degree of regularity in bronchial dichotomy has been studied in 5 corrosive preparations of the dog bronchial tree by the method of E. R. Weibel. It has been demonstrated that a high degree of regularity is specific for the dog lungs that makes 0.82 +/- 0.12 regarding small and large diameters. Approximation in distribution of bronchi having the diameter of 3--3.5 mm in 1--9 generations by means of binomial distribution gives a good result. The greatest bronchial rate with the diameter mentioned above has been registered in 5--7 generations. Theoretical data are presented to demonstrate the necessity in regularity of bronchial branching in order to maintain an optimal gaseous exchange in lungs.", "PMID": 435085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2526", "title": "[Tendinous fibers in the periosteum and bone].", "content": "The relation of muscles and bony skeleton studied in the work demonstrates a rather complex mechanism of connections existing between tendinous elements and periosteum and bone. Investigation on fixation of muscular tendons to the skeleton has demonstrated that in some cases tendinous filaments plait into the periosteum and terminate in it, while in other cases not all the tendinous filaments terminate at the level of the periosteum, but some of them penetrate into the bone. Thus, it has been demonstrated for the first time that tendinous filaments penetrate into the compact substance of the bone.", "contents": "[Tendinous fibers in the periosteum and bone]. The relation of muscles and bony skeleton studied in the work demonstrates a rather complex mechanism of connections existing between tendinous elements and periosteum and bone. Investigation on fixation of muscular tendons to the skeleton has demonstrated that in some cases tendinous filaments plait into the periosteum and terminate in it, while in other cases not all the tendinous filaments terminate at the level of the periosteum, but some of them penetrate into the bone. Thus, it has been demonstrated for the first time that tendinous filaments penetrate into the compact substance of the bone.", "PMID": 435087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2527", "title": "[Quantitative characteristics of cells formed during early postnatal ontogenesis in the cytoarchitectonic layers of the parietal region of the cortex in normal mice and following brain injuries].", "content": "By means of computer analysis, size distribution of neurons and glial cells together with the label of 3H-thymidin labelled cells were studied in cytoarchitectonic layers of the field 1 in the mouse parietal cortex injected with the isotope on the 5th day of life and killed 1 month later. In some animals, 3 days before 3H-thymidin injection, the parietal region in the right hemisphere was perforated. The labelled cells were subdivided into 2 groups according to their size: astrocytes (A) and small gliocytes (mg). Labelled A and mg were stated to be rather evenly distributed along the cytoarchitectonic layers in the field 1. The trauma performed resulted in increasing amount of the labelled A and MG in the operated hemisphere. Uniformity in distribution of the labelled A and mg, occupying the position of satellites, did not change considerably at the trauma, in spite of general quantitative increase of the labelled glial cells. One month after the trauma, body dimentions of the mice labelled with A and mg did not considerably differ from those of intact animals, while the size of nerve cells increased. Thus, neurons in the parietal cortex of a growing brain respond to brain trauma with hypertrophy of cell bodies, and glial populations--with increase of their number.", "contents": "[Quantitative characteristics of cells formed during early postnatal ontogenesis in the cytoarchitectonic layers of the parietal region of the cortex in normal mice and following brain injuries]. By means of computer analysis, size distribution of neurons and glial cells together with the label of 3H-thymidin labelled cells were studied in cytoarchitectonic layers of the field 1 in the mouse parietal cortex injected with the isotope on the 5th day of life and killed 1 month later. In some animals, 3 days before 3H-thymidin injection, the parietal region in the right hemisphere was perforated. The labelled cells were subdivided into 2 groups according to their size: astrocytes (A) and small gliocytes (mg). Labelled A and mg were stated to be rather evenly distributed along the cytoarchitectonic layers in the field 1. The trauma performed resulted in increasing amount of the labelled A and MG in the operated hemisphere. Uniformity in distribution of the labelled A and mg, occupying the position of satellites, did not change considerably at the trauma, in spite of general quantitative increase of the labelled glial cells. One month after the trauma, body dimentions of the mice labelled with A and mg did not considerably differ from those of intact animals, while the size of nerve cells increased. Thus, neurons in the parietal cortex of a growing brain respond to brain trauma with hypertrophy of cell bodies, and glial populations--with increase of their number.", "PMID": 435088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2528", "title": "[Histometric changes in the liver of inbred rats during prevention of hypokinesis].", "content": "An experimental investigation on morphological changes in the liver under prophylaxis of hypokinesia has been performed in genetically uniform material--150 premature rats of August and Wistar lines. The prophylaxis has been carried out at hypokinesia as the background produced by training in the treadban and at the combination of the latter with a pharmacological stimulator. The experiment has been performed for two months. In histological preparations of the liver the number of hepatic lobules, hepatocytes and stellate reticuloendotheliocytes per unit of the tissue area have been determined. Nuclear diameters, width of hepatocytes and sinusoid blood capillaries have been measured. Significant histometric changes in structural components of the liver have been stated after 60 days of hypokinesia with decrease of the organ. Prophylactic measures applied with hypokinesia as the background produce certain positive effect, though it is not the same in different indices and in different strains of animals.", "contents": "[Histometric changes in the liver of inbred rats during prevention of hypokinesis]. An experimental investigation on morphological changes in the liver under prophylaxis of hypokinesia has been performed in genetically uniform material--150 premature rats of August and Wistar lines. The prophylaxis has been carried out at hypokinesia as the background produced by training in the treadban and at the combination of the latter with a pharmacological stimulator. The experiment has been performed for two months. In histological preparations of the liver the number of hepatic lobules, hepatocytes and stellate reticuloendotheliocytes per unit of the tissue area have been determined. Nuclear diameters, width of hepatocytes and sinusoid blood capillaries have been measured. Significant histometric changes in structural components of the liver have been stated after 60 days of hypokinesia with decrease of the organ. Prophylactic measures applied with hypokinesia as the background produce certain positive effect, though it is not the same in different indices and in different strains of animals.", "PMID": 435089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2529", "title": "[Electron microscopic study of the innervation of the heart conduction system in rats].", "content": "A systemic quantitative electron microscopic analysis on innervation of the sinus node, the atrioventricular node, the bundle of His and its pedicles within the interventricular septum has been performed in intact hearts of mature rats. The data have been obtained on the size of nonmyelinated and myelinated nerve fibres, efferent and afferent terminals within different parts of the cardiac conductive system, their interconnection with specialized cardiomyocytes have been described. Application of certain methods for electron microscopic investigation on the innervation of mammalian cardiac conductive system has been discussed.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic study of the innervation of the heart conduction system in rats]. A systemic quantitative electron microscopic analysis on innervation of the sinus node, the atrioventricular node, the bundle of His and its pedicles within the interventricular septum has been performed in intact hearts of mature rats. The data have been obtained on the size of nonmyelinated and myelinated nerve fibres, efferent and afferent terminals within different parts of the cardiac conductive system, their interconnection with specialized cardiomyocytes have been described. Application of certain methods for electron microscopic investigation on the innervation of mammalian cardiac conductive system has been discussed.", "PMID": 435090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2530", "title": "[Several indices of the morphofunctional state of the normal kidney and kidneys following lymph drainage disruption].", "content": "The size of the renal body in convoluted parts of proximal and distal nephrons has been studied in normal dogs and after section and ligation of the efferent lymphatic vessels in 4 series of experiments (85 dogs). Observations have been made 12 h, 3 and 10--150 days after the operation. Histological, histochemical and morphometric methods have been applied; the level of residual nitrogen has been estimated. In early days of the experiment, the disturbance in lymph drainage has been found to result in edema and albuminous saturation of the connective tissue stroma, granular distrophy of the epithelium in the convoluted tubules of the kidney. After 40--150 days of the experiment, diffuse sclerosis of the connective tissue stroma of the medullar substance and of the pyramids develops. Alterations and disorders in the organ's function on nitrogen discharge are especially pronounced when lymph drainage is disturbed in one kidney, and the other kidney is removed. In such a case, the processes of compensatory hypertrophy are delayed. Morpho-functional alterations are less pronounced after lymph drainage disorders in the compensatory hypertrophic kidney.", "contents": "[Several indices of the morphofunctional state of the normal kidney and kidneys following lymph drainage disruption]. The size of the renal body in convoluted parts of proximal and distal nephrons has been studied in normal dogs and after section and ligation of the efferent lymphatic vessels in 4 series of experiments (85 dogs). Observations have been made 12 h, 3 and 10--150 days after the operation. Histological, histochemical and morphometric methods have been applied; the level of residual nitrogen has been estimated. In early days of the experiment, the disturbance in lymph drainage has been found to result in edema and albuminous saturation of the connective tissue stroma, granular distrophy of the epithelium in the convoluted tubules of the kidney. After 40--150 days of the experiment, diffuse sclerosis of the connective tissue stroma of the medullar substance and of the pyramids develops. Alterations and disorders in the organ's function on nitrogen discharge are especially pronounced when lymph drainage is disturbed in one kidney, and the other kidney is removed. In such a case, the processes of compensatory hypertrophy are delayed. Morpho-functional alterations are less pronounced after lymph drainage disorders in the compensatory hypertrophic kidney.", "PMID": 435091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2531", "title": "[Histochemical and cytologic changes in the liver in experimental poisoning and subsequent pregnancy].", "content": "In 275 white rats chronic intoxication was produced by injection of amidopyrine acetaldehyde and chloraldehyde derivatives for 4 months. Histochemical and electron microscopic investigations of the liver under the experimental conditions and subsequent pregnancy revealed certain changes in nucleic metabolism, glycogenolisis, in the content of sulfhydryl, disulfide, carboxylic groups of protein molecules. Decrease in activity of enzymes of Krebs cycle and pentosophosphate cycle proved the deep changes in hepatocytes at the level of oxidation-reduction processes and protein synthesis. Ultramicroscopic changes in the nucleus, in cytoplasmic network, mitochondria and local degenerative alterations determined the level of morphologic reconstructions in connection with the intoxication. As the liver performs a number of vital functions and is closely connected with regulatory systems of the organism, morphofunctional shifts in the organ affect unfavourably the system mother--fetus.", "contents": "[Histochemical and cytologic changes in the liver in experimental poisoning and subsequent pregnancy]. In 275 white rats chronic intoxication was produced by injection of amidopyrine acetaldehyde and chloraldehyde derivatives for 4 months. Histochemical and electron microscopic investigations of the liver under the experimental conditions and subsequent pregnancy revealed certain changes in nucleic metabolism, glycogenolisis, in the content of sulfhydryl, disulfide, carboxylic groups of protein molecules. Decrease in activity of enzymes of Krebs cycle and pentosophosphate cycle proved the deep changes in hepatocytes at the level of oxidation-reduction processes and protein synthesis. Ultramicroscopic changes in the nucleus, in cytoplasmic network, mitochondria and local degenerative alterations determined the level of morphologic reconstructions in connection with the intoxication. As the liver performs a number of vital functions and is closely connected with regulatory systems of the organism, morphofunctional shifts in the organ affect unfavourably the system mother--fetus.", "PMID": 435092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2532", "title": "[Comparative characteristics of the cyto- and angioarchitectonics of the inferior olives and the dentate nuclei of the cerebellum during human prenatal ontogenesis].", "content": "The development of the inferior olives and the denticulate nuclei of the cerebellum and their capillary network were studied in human fetuses 4--10 months old. General regularities in the formation of the inferior olives and the denticulate nuclei of the cerebellum were stated. During prenatal ontogenesis, nuclear cytoarchitectonics becomes more complex that is especially evident after 7th month of the intrauterine development: the density of the neural cells arrangement decreases, while the density of the glia arrangement and that of the glial index increases. At the same time, essential alterations occur in the capillary network: int acquires three-dimensional structure, becomes longer with more complicated interrelations between the neural cells and the capillaries.", "contents": "[Comparative characteristics of the cyto- and angioarchitectonics of the inferior olives and the dentate nuclei of the cerebellum during human prenatal ontogenesis]. The development of the inferior olives and the denticulate nuclei of the cerebellum and their capillary network were studied in human fetuses 4--10 months old. General regularities in the formation of the inferior olives and the denticulate nuclei of the cerebellum were stated. During prenatal ontogenesis, nuclear cytoarchitectonics becomes more complex that is especially evident after 7th month of the intrauterine development: the density of the neural cells arrangement decreases, while the density of the glia arrangement and that of the glial index increases. At the same time, essential alterations occur in the capillary network: int acquires three-dimensional structure, becomes longer with more complicated interrelations between the neural cells and the capillaries.", "PMID": 435093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2533", "title": "[Effect of articular cartilage resection on the growth and formation of the femoral and acetabular epiphyses].", "content": "Different parts of the articular cartilage were resected in 46 rabbits at the age of 2.5 months. The resected narrow stripe of the articular cartilage completely restored by the 60--90th day and the growth of the condyles was not disturbed. Resection of considerable areas of the articular cartilage on the condyles and on the femoral head was accompanied by a certain disturbance of the osseous tissue growth in these areas with resulted impression of the condyles, deformation of the head and further formation of coxa vara. The removal of 1/3 of the articular cartilage of the cotyloid cavity resulted in a certain increase of its diamter, uneven development at the site of resection; the femoral head of this joint increased, its spherical shape was altered. The restored cartilage did not restore its original structure characteristic for a growing bone. The newly formed articular cartilage lost its ability to participate in endochondral bone formation during the growth of the animal.", "contents": "[Effect of articular cartilage resection on the growth and formation of the femoral and acetabular epiphyses]. Different parts of the articular cartilage were resected in 46 rabbits at the age of 2.5 months. The resected narrow stripe of the articular cartilage completely restored by the 60--90th day and the growth of the condyles was not disturbed. Resection of considerable areas of the articular cartilage on the condyles and on the femoral head was accompanied by a certain disturbance of the osseous tissue growth in these areas with resulted impression of the condyles, deformation of the head and further formation of coxa vara. The removal of 1/3 of the articular cartilage of the cotyloid cavity resulted in a certain increase of its diamter, uneven development at the site of resection; the femoral head of this joint increased, its spherical shape was altered. The restored cartilage did not restore its original structure characteristic for a growing bone. The newly formed articular cartilage lost its ability to participate in endochondral bone formation during the growth of the animal.", "PMID": 435094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2534", "title": "[Effect of weightlessness and artificial gravitation on thyroid gland morphology].", "content": "The investigation of the thyroid gland was carried out in Wistar rats, SPF colony 4.5--13 h and 25 days after a 18.5 days flight on board the space biosatellite \"Cosmos-936\". In animals subjected to weightlessness, moderate symptoms of the thyroid hypofunction were observed, statistically significant decrease in number and volume of the nuclei in calcitonin-secreting cells (C-cells) was especially pronounced during 4.5--9 h after landing. Similar but less pronounced changes were observed in C-cells of the rats subjected to artificial conditions of space flight, besides weightlessness. The similarity of the changes in the animals of both groups made it possible to connect the increasing amount of C-cells and the morphological symptoms of their functional inhibition with the effect of weightlessness and hypokinesia. During the space flight, the animals were kept under the conditions of artificial gravitation on board the biosatellite and therefore morphological peculiarities specific for the earth conditions were preserved in C-cells and the thyroid gland. Thus, it was concluded that artificial gravitation prevented the development of the thyroid changes which appeared under the influence of weightlessness.", "contents": "[Effect of weightlessness and artificial gravitation on thyroid gland morphology]. The investigation of the thyroid gland was carried out in Wistar rats, SPF colony 4.5--13 h and 25 days after a 18.5 days flight on board the space biosatellite \"Cosmos-936\". In animals subjected to weightlessness, moderate symptoms of the thyroid hypofunction were observed, statistically significant decrease in number and volume of the nuclei in calcitonin-secreting cells (C-cells) was especially pronounced during 4.5--9 h after landing. Similar but less pronounced changes were observed in C-cells of the rats subjected to artificial conditions of space flight, besides weightlessness. The similarity of the changes in the animals of both groups made it possible to connect the increasing amount of C-cells and the morphological symptoms of their functional inhibition with the effect of weightlessness and hypokinesia. During the space flight, the animals were kept under the conditions of artificial gravitation on board the biosatellite and therefore morphological peculiarities specific for the earth conditions were preserved in C-cells and the thyroid gland. Thus, it was concluded that artificial gravitation prevented the development of the thyroid changes which appeared under the influence of weightlessness.", "PMID": 435096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2535", "title": "[Effect of artificial gravitation on the skeletal musculature of rats during space flights].", "content": "Comparative morphological and histochemical investigation of the rat skeletal muscles after a 18.5 days flight in the space ship \"Cosmos-936\" under conditions of weightlessness and artificial gravitation created by means of a centrifuge has demonstrated that weightlessness creates muscular atrophy, with fibres of different types affected in different muscles. The greatest changes take place in the soleus muscle. Metabolic disorders in the muscular tissue are manifested as an excessive deposition of glycogen and an increased content of phospholipids in it. The artificial gravitation favourably affects the state of the skeletal musculature preventing the development of metabolic disorders, though it does not completely avert the appearance of atrophic processes in it.", "contents": "[Effect of artificial gravitation on the skeletal musculature of rats during space flights]. Comparative morphological and histochemical investigation of the rat skeletal muscles after a 18.5 days flight in the space ship \"Cosmos-936\" under conditions of weightlessness and artificial gravitation created by means of a centrifuge has demonstrated that weightlessness creates muscular atrophy, with fibres of different types affected in different muscles. The greatest changes take place in the soleus muscle. Metabolic disorders in the muscular tissue are manifested as an excessive deposition of glycogen and an increased content of phospholipids in it. The artificial gravitation favourably affects the state of the skeletal musculature preventing the development of metabolic disorders, though it does not completely avert the appearance of atrophic processes in it.", "PMID": 435097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2536", "title": "[Radioautographic study of a culture of fibroblasts after irradiation by a neodymium laser].", "content": "By means of radioautographic method, with 3H-thymidin application there were studied: mitotic activity, the number of DNA-synthesizing cells, growth fraction and population number of fibroblast culture irradiated with a single impulse of neodymium laser at energy density within 1 Dg/cm2--100 Dg/cm2. Under the influence of small doses of laser radiation (1--10 Dg/cm2) the number of dividing DNA-synthesizing cells increased, together with proliferative pool and the number of cells in the field of vision. At energy density of laser radiation equal to 50 Dg/cm2, and especially to 100 Dg/cm2 despite increased mitotic index and labelled cells index, registered during first hours of the effect, proliferative pool decreased and population growth rate lowered. These doses of laser radiation produced destruction of a rather large part of the cells in a monolayer.", "contents": "[Radioautographic study of a culture of fibroblasts after irradiation by a neodymium laser]. By means of radioautographic method, with 3H-thymidin application there were studied: mitotic activity, the number of DNA-synthesizing cells, growth fraction and population number of fibroblast culture irradiated with a single impulse of neodymium laser at energy density within 1 Dg/cm2--100 Dg/cm2. Under the influence of small doses of laser radiation (1--10 Dg/cm2) the number of dividing DNA-synthesizing cells increased, together with proliferative pool and the number of cells in the field of vision. At energy density of laser radiation equal to 50 Dg/cm2, and especially to 100 Dg/cm2 despite increased mitotic index and labelled cells index, registered during first hours of the effect, proliferative pool decreased and population growth rate lowered. These doses of laser radiation produced destruction of a rather large part of the cells in a monolayer.", "PMID": 435098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2537", "title": "[Electron microscopic study of the effects of thyroxine and exogenous RNA on cultured cells].", "content": "Dependence of thyroxin effect on the level of transcription and the influence of exogenous RNA synthesized by injection of thyroxin to animals was studied in culture cells electron microscopically. Thyroxin was stated to produce changes in nuclear structures, the development of endoplasmic network, increase in number of ribosomes, hypertrophy of the laminar complex. A partial blockade of transcription by actinomycine prevents the manifestation of thyroxin effect on the state of cell ultrastructures. Injection of RNA obtained from organs of rats treated with thyroxin to some extent imitates thyroxin action on the state of protein-synthesizing of the cell. The data were presented on the existance of some genetic link in the mechanism of thyroxin action affecting ultrastructural organization of the cell.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic study of the effects of thyroxine and exogenous RNA on cultured cells]. Dependence of thyroxin effect on the level of transcription and the influence of exogenous RNA synthesized by injection of thyroxin to animals was studied in culture cells electron microscopically. Thyroxin was stated to produce changes in nuclear structures, the development of endoplasmic network, increase in number of ribosomes, hypertrophy of the laminar complex. A partial blockade of transcription by actinomycine prevents the manifestation of thyroxin effect on the state of cell ultrastructures. Injection of RNA obtained from organs of rats treated with thyroxin to some extent imitates thyroxin action on the state of protein-synthesizing of the cell. The data were presented on the existance of some genetic link in the mechanism of thyroxin action affecting ultrastructural organization of the cell.", "PMID": 435099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2538", "title": "[Mineral saturation, ossification and synostosis of the hand bones in adolescents and youth].", "content": "The results on X-ray densitometric studies of the hand bones in adolescent and young people at the age of 10--17 years (369 persons in all) are presented in the work. Processes of mineralization, ossification and synostosis, as the investigation has demonstrated, are closely connected with each other. From the beginning of ossification in the pisiform and sesamoid bones of the first metacarpophalageal joint (11--12 years of age) up to the completion of synostosis in short tubular bones of the hand (15--16 years of age), a decrease of mineral salts is noted in osseous tissue. Hence, accumulation of mineral salts in skeleton of children and adolescent persons does not occur smoothly, but rather distinctly reflects those functional changes which take place in the adolescent organism when the genital glands begin their increased activity.", "contents": "[Mineral saturation, ossification and synostosis of the hand bones in adolescents and youth]. The results on X-ray densitometric studies of the hand bones in adolescent and young people at the age of 10--17 years (369 persons in all) are presented in the work. Processes of mineralization, ossification and synostosis, as the investigation has demonstrated, are closely connected with each other. From the beginning of ossification in the pisiform and sesamoid bones of the first metacarpophalageal joint (11--12 years of age) up to the completion of synostosis in short tubular bones of the hand (15--16 years of age), a decrease of mineral salts is noted in osseous tissue. Hence, accumulation of mineral salts in skeleton of children and adolescent persons does not occur smoothly, but rather distinctly reflects those functional changes which take place in the adolescent organism when the genital glands begin their increased activity.", "PMID": 435100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2539", "title": "[Anatomical variants of the lymphatic vessels connecting the inguinal lymph nodes].", "content": "The study of anatomical variants of lymphatic vessels connecting inguinal lymph nodes was carried out on 56 corpses of adult persons of both sex whose deaths were not connected with lesions in the lymphatic system of the pelvis and lower extremities. The inguinal lymph nodes and their afferent and efferent lymphatic vessels were detected by the method of intradermal injection and by the method of direct injection into the lymphatic vessels. It was stated that groups of the inguinal lymph nodes, as well as the nodes in every group determined, can serve as nodes of different stages for afferent lymphatic vessels running from different parts of the body and organs.", "contents": "[Anatomical variants of the lymphatic vessels connecting the inguinal lymph nodes]. The study of anatomical variants of lymphatic vessels connecting inguinal lymph nodes was carried out on 56 corpses of adult persons of both sex whose deaths were not connected with lesions in the lymphatic system of the pelvis and lower extremities. The inguinal lymph nodes and their afferent and efferent lymphatic vessels were detected by the method of intradermal injection and by the method of direct injection into the lymphatic vessels. It was stated that groups of the inguinal lymph nodes, as well as the nodes in every group determined, can serve as nodes of different stages for afferent lymphatic vessels running from different parts of the body and organs.", "PMID": 435101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2540", "title": "[Intraspecies features of variants in the structure of the arterial bed in dogs and their importance for hindlimb transplantation].", "content": "As a result of detailed studies of the dog anatomy, the authors have concluded that besides generally accepted subdivision of these animals into flabby, rough, strong, lean and gentle types, it is reasonable to subdivide them according to the type of their habitus (brachy-, meso- and dolichomorphous types). In 95 fresh and fixed anatomical preparations, peculiarities of topographic-anatomical relations and morphometric indices of magistral arteries and their large branches have been studied in the pelvic girdle and a free hind extremity in mongrel dogs according to the type of their habitus. In dogs of mesomorphous type of habitus, quantitative parameters of the diameter and length of magistral arterial trunks in the hind extremity, as a well as the distance between their branches occupy an intermediate place when comparing the animals of brachy- and dolichomorphous types. The authors have come to the conclusion that dogs of the mesomorphous type of habitus are the most suitable to perform experiments on transplantation of extremities and for modelling different pathophysiologic conditions in the organ.", "contents": "[Intraspecies features of variants in the structure of the arterial bed in dogs and their importance for hindlimb transplantation]. As a result of detailed studies of the dog anatomy, the authors have concluded that besides generally accepted subdivision of these animals into flabby, rough, strong, lean and gentle types, it is reasonable to subdivide them according to the type of their habitus (brachy-, meso- and dolichomorphous types). In 95 fresh and fixed anatomical preparations, peculiarities of topographic-anatomical relations and morphometric indices of magistral arteries and their large branches have been studied in the pelvic girdle and a free hind extremity in mongrel dogs according to the type of their habitus. In dogs of mesomorphous type of habitus, quantitative parameters of the diameter and length of magistral arterial trunks in the hind extremity, as a well as the distance between their branches occupy an intermediate place when comparing the animals of brachy- and dolichomorphous types. The authors have come to the conclusion that dogs of the mesomorphous type of habitus are the most suitable to perform experiments on transplantation of extremities and for modelling different pathophysiologic conditions in the organ.", "PMID": 435102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2541", "title": "[Features of the structure of the cornea of fish].", "content": "Electron microscopy of the cornea have been performed in marine fishes. Some structural peculiarities in the cornea of prebottom-dwelling fishes have been demonstrated. In Gobius fluviatilis (Pallas), Gobius (Proterorhinus) marmoratus (Pallas), glossa Platichthys flesus (L) the cornea is double and there is an iridescent layer. It is stated that cells of the iridescent layer play an active part in the formation of the endothelial basal membrane. In Syngnathus nigrolineatus, according to its living conditions, the cornea has a rather simple composition and structure. In the cornea of fishes either epithelial or endothelial basal membrane (Gobiidae, Syngnathus nigrolineatus) or a wide electron opaque epithelial membrane (Blennius tentacularis) or else, besides this, the Bowmen membrane (glossa) can be formed.", "contents": "[Features of the structure of the cornea of fish]. Electron microscopy of the cornea have been performed in marine fishes. Some structural peculiarities in the cornea of prebottom-dwelling fishes have been demonstrated. In Gobius fluviatilis (Pallas), Gobius (Proterorhinus) marmoratus (Pallas), glossa Platichthys flesus (L) the cornea is double and there is an iridescent layer. It is stated that cells of the iridescent layer play an active part in the formation of the endothelial basal membrane. In Syngnathus nigrolineatus, according to its living conditions, the cornea has a rather simple composition and structure. In the cornea of fishes either epithelial or endothelial basal membrane (Gobiidae, Syngnathus nigrolineatus) or a wide electron opaque epithelial membrane (Blennius tentacularis) or else, besides this, the Bowmen membrane (glossa) can be formed.", "PMID": 435103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2542", "title": "[Dynamics of axonal degeneration in the neuronally isolated cerebral cortex].", "content": "The brains of 11 cats were studied after unilateral isolation of the cortex after M. M. Khananashvily (1961) by means of resection of the projection fibres connecting the cortex with subcortical formations. The character and peculiarities of axonal degeneration in the large hemisphere cortex, were investigated after Nauta and Fink--Heimer. It was found that distribution of degenerating terminals in every layer depended on the time when the material was taken for investigation. Maximal concentration of the degenerating fibres was observed 3--5--10 days after the operation, then a gradual decrease in density of degeneration in every cortical layer was observed. By the 9th month after the operation, the processes of axonal degeneration completely came to their end. The problem of retrograde and anterograde nature of the axonal degeneration in the cortex of the large hemispheres was discussed in the article and it was demonstrated that in the field 4 of the neuronally isolated cortex it is of mixed nature.", "contents": "[Dynamics of axonal degeneration in the neuronally isolated cerebral cortex]. The brains of 11 cats were studied after unilateral isolation of the cortex after M. M. Khananashvily (1961) by means of resection of the projection fibres connecting the cortex with subcortical formations. The character and peculiarities of axonal degeneration in the large hemisphere cortex, were investigated after Nauta and Fink--Heimer. It was found that distribution of degenerating terminals in every layer depended on the time when the material was taken for investigation. Maximal concentration of the degenerating fibres was observed 3--5--10 days after the operation, then a gradual decrease in density of degeneration in every cortical layer was observed. By the 9th month after the operation, the processes of axonal degeneration completely came to their end. The problem of retrograde and anterograde nature of the axonal degeneration in the cortex of the large hemispheres was discussed in the article and it was demonstrated that in the field 4 of the neuronally isolated cortex it is of mixed nature.", "PMID": 435104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2543", "title": "[Innervation of the microcirculatory bed of the human trigeminal nerve].", "content": "The investigation of film preparations and histological sections of human trigeminal nerves impregnated with silver nitrate and treated after Gomori, Falck--Hillarp demonstrated a rich innervation in the intraneural blood vessels. The most various and complex interconnections of the neural structures were noted in arterioles and venules of the node capsule, epineurium and external layers of perineurium of the trigeminal nerve branches. On the vessel walls of these layers, neural plexus were revealed. Sensitive innervation of the neural blood vessels mainly performed by posvalent tissue-vascular receptors. In the walls of intraneural vessels, adrenergic and cholinergic neural plexus are revealed.", "contents": "[Innervation of the microcirculatory bed of the human trigeminal nerve]. The investigation of film preparations and histological sections of human trigeminal nerves impregnated with silver nitrate and treated after Gomori, Falck--Hillarp demonstrated a rich innervation in the intraneural blood vessels. The most various and complex interconnections of the neural structures were noted in arterioles and venules of the node capsule, epineurium and external layers of perineurium of the trigeminal nerve branches. On the vessel walls of these layers, neural plexus were revealed. Sensitive innervation of the neural blood vessels mainly performed by posvalent tissue-vascular receptors. In the walls of intraneural vessels, adrenergic and cholinergic neural plexus are revealed.", "PMID": 435105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2544", "title": "A hemoperfusion column based on activated carbon granules coated with an ultrathin membrane of cellulose acetate.", "content": "A hemoperfusion system has been developed which makes use of activated carbon encapsulated with cellulose acetate. Studies have revealed that there are no stagnant flow regions in the column, there is minimal particle release and the coating is 30 A thick. The relationships between pore size, pore volume and surface area have been examined. Twenty-five patients in grade IV coma have been treated with the column for treatment of drug overdose or agricultural chemical poisoning; the clinical course of one meprobamate-poisoned patient is described in detail.", "contents": "A hemoperfusion column based on activated carbon granules coated with an ultrathin membrane of cellulose acetate. A hemoperfusion system has been developed which makes use of activated carbon encapsulated with cellulose acetate. Studies have revealed that there are no stagnant flow regions in the column, there is minimal particle release and the coating is 30 A thick. The relationships between pore size, pore volume and surface area have been examined. Twenty-five patients in grade IV coma have been treated with the column for treatment of drug overdose or agricultural chemical poisoning; the clinical course of one meprobamate-poisoned patient is described in detail.", "PMID": 435118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2545", "title": "Thiols and hepatic coma.", "content": "The plasma concentrations of methane and ethane thiols have been determined during the course of acute liver failure by a gas-chromatographic technique, and a prognostic evaluation is possible using this analysis. Further, the effects of some therapeutic measures, notably hemoperfusion, on the thiol levels have been investigated. It is concluded that these toxins, which are to a large extent covalently protein-bound, are extremely difficult to remove in an extracorporeal liver support system. Since the cause of the pathological thiol concentrations is probably the elevated plasma methionine levels associated with severe liver disease, it is suggested that the most hopeful course of action against the accumulation of thiols in the body might be a preventative therapy involving the normalization of methionine at an early stage of the disease.", "contents": "Thiols and hepatic coma. The plasma concentrations of methane and ethane thiols have been determined during the course of acute liver failure by a gas-chromatographic technique, and a prognostic evaluation is possible using this analysis. Further, the effects of some therapeutic measures, notably hemoperfusion, on the thiol levels have been investigated. It is concluded that these toxins, which are to a large extent covalently protein-bound, are extremely difficult to remove in an extracorporeal liver support system. Since the cause of the pathological thiol concentrations is probably the elevated plasma methionine levels associated with severe liver disease, it is suggested that the most hopeful course of action against the accumulation of thiols in the body might be a preventative therapy involving the normalization of methionine at an early stage of the disease.", "PMID": 435119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2546", "title": "Albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 resin for hemoperfusion in acute liver failure. Part II: in vivo evaluation.", "content": "Albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 has been previously shown to be blood compatible in in vitro hemoperfusion experiments whith human blood. In this study, the preliminary results are reported on single hemoperfusions with albumin-coated XAD-7 resin in four patients with acute liver failure. The mean platelet count was 116+/-SE 16.3% of the initial arterial value and the mean white cell count was 96+/-SE 6.5% of initial at the end of four hours of hemoperfusion. Removal of bilirubin, phenols and substances in the middle molecular weight range by the resin was demonstrated. These preliminary results suggest albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 resin to be blood compatible and capable of removing protein-bound and middle molecular weight substances from patients with acute liver failure. Further clinical evaluation of repeated resin hemoperfusion is required to determine whether this treatment will be beneficial to patient survival.", "contents": "Albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 resin for hemoperfusion in acute liver failure. Part II: in vivo evaluation. Albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 has been previously shown to be blood compatible in in vitro hemoperfusion experiments whith human blood. In this study, the preliminary results are reported on single hemoperfusions with albumin-coated XAD-7 resin in four patients with acute liver failure. The mean platelet count was 116+/-SE 16.3% of the initial arterial value and the mean white cell count was 96+/-SE 6.5% of initial at the end of four hours of hemoperfusion. Removal of bilirubin, phenols and substances in the middle molecular weight range by the resin was demonstrated. These preliminary results suggest albumin-coated Amberlite XAD-7 resin to be blood compatible and capable of removing protein-bound and middle molecular weight substances from patients with acute liver failure. Further clinical evaluation of repeated resin hemoperfusion is required to determine whether this treatment will be beneficial to patient survival.", "PMID": 435120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2547", "title": "Dialysis/hemofiltration in schizophrenia: a journey by night and cloud.", "content": "Hypotheses for the etiology of schizophrenia are discussed and related to possible treatments utilizing artificial kidney systems. For hemofiltration particularly, a theoretical framework is presented for treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of using rigid diagnostic criteria for patient selection. Results are reported on two \"strict\" schizophrenic patients after a series of hemofiltration treatments. One patient showed no clinical improvement after seventeen treatments and died subsequently in a mountaineering accident. Though clinical improvement was noted in the second patient (22 treatments in four months), it is unjustifiable to attribute this solely to hemofiltration. Increased family and medical staff attention towards the patient is sufficient explanation for all changes noted in the patient's symptomatology. Chemical analyses so far have failed to detect any endorphins, normal or abnormal, in the hemofiltrates of either the two patients or two normal controls (sensitivity 30 pmol/L).", "contents": "Dialysis/hemofiltration in schizophrenia: a journey by night and cloud. Hypotheses for the etiology of schizophrenia are discussed and related to possible treatments utilizing artificial kidney systems. For hemofiltration particularly, a theoretical framework is presented for treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of using rigid diagnostic criteria for patient selection. Results are reported on two \"strict\" schizophrenic patients after a series of hemofiltration treatments. One patient showed no clinical improvement after seventeen treatments and died subsequently in a mountaineering accident. Though clinical improvement was noted in the second patient (22 treatments in four months), it is unjustifiable to attribute this solely to hemofiltration. Increased family and medical staff attention towards the patient is sufficient explanation for all changes noted in the patient's symptomatology. Chemical analyses so far have failed to detect any endorphins, normal or abnormal, in the hemofiltrates of either the two patients or two normal controls (sensitivity 30 pmol/L).", "PMID": 435121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2548", "title": "Effects of glucose dehydrogenase in converting urea and ammonia into amino acid using artificial cells.", "content": "A microencapsulated multienzyme system containing urease, glutamate dehydrogenase and glucose dehydrogenase has been used to convert urea and ammonia into an amino acid. The effect of two different glucose dehydrogenases was studied in detail. High-specific-activity glucose dehydrogenase requires minimal cofactor and glucose and can greatly facilitate the further development of this approach for possible clinical applications.", "contents": "Effects of glucose dehydrogenase in converting urea and ammonia into amino acid using artificial cells. A microencapsulated multienzyme system containing urease, glutamate dehydrogenase and glucose dehydrogenase has been used to convert urea and ammonia into an amino acid. The effect of two different glucose dehydrogenases was studied in detail. High-specific-activity glucose dehydrogenase requires minimal cofactor and glucose and can greatly facilitate the further development of this approach for possible clinical applications.", "PMID": 435122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2549", "title": "Biochemical, hematological and histological changes in a fulminant hepatic failure rat model for artificial liver assessment.", "content": "Galactosamine-induced fulminant hepatic failure rats have been used as a model for statistical assessment of liver support systems. The present study reports in detail the biochemical, hematological and histological changes in these animals. They have been used to study statistically the effects of ACAC charcoal hemoperfusion, cross-circulation and liver perfusion on long-term survival in fulminant hepatic failure.", "contents": "Biochemical, hematological and histological changes in a fulminant hepatic failure rat model for artificial liver assessment. Galactosamine-induced fulminant hepatic failure rats have been used as a model for statistical assessment of liver support systems. The present study reports in detail the biochemical, hematological and histological changes in these animals. They have been used to study statistically the effects of ACAC charcoal hemoperfusion, cross-circulation and liver perfusion on long-term survival in fulminant hepatic failure.", "PMID": 435123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2550", "title": "Present status of the hemofiltration/molecular separation artificial kidney.", "content": "The hemofiltration/molecular separation (HFMS) artificial kidney concept, first proposed over a decade ago, involves continuous ultrafiltration from the blood stream followed by cleansing of the filtrate, with subsequent return to the body. Thus, the system is completely self-contained and portable. During recent preclinical trials on nephrectomized canines, HFMS was better than hemodialysis (HD) in several important ways. First, the removal or clearance of middle molecules was better with 0.34 m(2) HFMS than with 1 m(2) HD. Significant phosphate clearance was achieved, and the removal rate for creatinine was the same as that for urea. This uniform clearance extends to even higher molecular weight solutes and could potentially result in improved patient response. It mimics the real kidney, whereas membrane-limited dialysis undergoes a logarithmic decrease of clearance with molecular weight. This is due to the fact that solute transport through the membrane involves solution into its matrix followed by diffusion, and solute diffusivity decreases with molecular volume. In order to achieve this potential for hemofiltration-based systems, however, there are stringent requirements on both the membrane and the plasma proteins allowed to accumulate on the membrane surface.", "contents": "Present status of the hemofiltration/molecular separation artificial kidney. The hemofiltration/molecular separation (HFMS) artificial kidney concept, first proposed over a decade ago, involves continuous ultrafiltration from the blood stream followed by cleansing of the filtrate, with subsequent return to the body. Thus, the system is completely self-contained and portable. During recent preclinical trials on nephrectomized canines, HFMS was better than hemodialysis (HD) in several important ways. First, the removal or clearance of middle molecules was better with 0.34 m(2) HFMS than with 1 m(2) HD. Significant phosphate clearance was achieved, and the removal rate for creatinine was the same as that for urea. This uniform clearance extends to even higher molecular weight solutes and could potentially result in improved patient response. It mimics the real kidney, whereas membrane-limited dialysis undergoes a logarithmic decrease of clearance with molecular weight. This is due to the fact that solute transport through the membrane involves solution into its matrix followed by diffusion, and solute diffusivity decreases with molecular volume. In order to achieve this potential for hemofiltration-based systems, however, there are stringent requirements on both the membrane and the plasma proteins allowed to accumulate on the membrane surface.", "PMID": 435125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2551", "title": "Low-dose heparin in routine hemodialysis monitored by activated partial thromboplastin time.", "content": "To evaluate the use of the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), as measured by the Coag-A-Mate semi-automatic unit, in lowering the dosage of heparin in stable chronic hemodialysis patients, four protocols for anticoagulation were utilized. Ten patients were dialyzed five times with each protocol. In protocol I, clotting time was performed baseline, 2 and 4 hours and in protocol II, baseline and every 30 minutes, with heparin administered by bolus to keep the clotting time at 2-2 1/2 times normal. In protocols III and IV the APTT was performed every 30 minutes, with heparin given by bolus in protocol III and infusion in protocol IV, to keep the APTT 1 1/2-2 times normal. Protocol I required 6000 +/- 543 U of heparin with the dose decreasing significantly to 3694 +/- 158 U in protocol II, 2634 +/- 139 U in protocol III and 2013 +/- 117 U in protocol IV (P less than 0.05- less than 0.001). Three episodes of clotting occurred, one in protocol III and two in protocol IV. There was no bleeding, and clearances of urea, creatinine, phosphate and uric acid at 1 and 5 hours were similar in all protocols. APTT, as measured by the Coag-A-Mate unit, provides a simple means of lowering heparin requirements in routine dialysis patients.", "contents": "Low-dose heparin in routine hemodialysis monitored by activated partial thromboplastin time. To evaluate the use of the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), as measured by the Coag-A-Mate semi-automatic unit, in lowering the dosage of heparin in stable chronic hemodialysis patients, four protocols for anticoagulation were utilized. Ten patients were dialyzed five times with each protocol. In protocol I, clotting time was performed baseline, 2 and 4 hours and in protocol II, baseline and every 30 minutes, with heparin administered by bolus to keep the clotting time at 2-2 1/2 times normal. In protocols III and IV the APTT was performed every 30 minutes, with heparin given by bolus in protocol III and infusion in protocol IV, to keep the APTT 1 1/2-2 times normal. Protocol I required 6000 +/- 543 U of heparin with the dose decreasing significantly to 3694 +/- 158 U in protocol II, 2634 +/- 139 U in protocol III and 2013 +/- 117 U in protocol IV (P less than 0.05- less than 0.001). Three episodes of clotting occurred, one in protocol III and two in protocol IV. There was no bleeding, and clearances of urea, creatinine, phosphate and uric acid at 1 and 5 hours were similar in all protocols. APTT, as measured by the Coag-A-Mate unit, provides a simple means of lowering heparin requirements in routine dialysis patients.", "PMID": 435127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2552", "title": "Heparin allergy accompanying acute renal failure.", "content": "A generalized cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to a porcine heparin preparation was observed in a patient during the course of acute renal failure. Immunological studies, including gel diffusion and immunoelectrophoresis, suggested that the reaction was to a contaminant of the heparin and involved both IgG and IgE antibodies.", "contents": "Heparin allergy accompanying acute renal failure. A generalized cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to a porcine heparin preparation was observed in a patient during the course of acute renal failure. Immunological studies, including gel diffusion and immunoelectrophoresis, suggested that the reaction was to a contaminant of the heparin and involved both IgG and IgE antibodies.", "PMID": 435128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2553", "title": "Biological reactors as renal substitutes.", "content": "The concept of using natural biological reactors for renal support has been investigated. Normal urine was used as the source of urinary wastes. Quantities of nitrogenous wastes approaching those produced in renal failure patients have been removed in batch reactors. Mixed strains of microorganisms are required. While further studies are required, it is conceivable that biological reactors can be useful in combination with other technologies in the design of future treatment modalities for renal failure.", "contents": "Biological reactors as renal substitutes. The concept of using natural biological reactors for renal support has been investigated. Normal urine was used as the source of urinary wastes. Quantities of nitrogenous wastes approaching those produced in renal failure patients have been removed in batch reactors. Mixed strains of microorganisms are required. While further studies are required, it is conceivable that biological reactors can be useful in combination with other technologies in the design of future treatment modalities for renal failure.", "PMID": 435129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2554", "title": "Plasma administration to defibrinogenated dogs during extracorporeal circulation.", "content": "Plasma, in an amount corresponding to 0.05 gm fibrinogen/Kg of body weight, was administered during one hour to defibrinogenated dogs subjected to extracorporeal circulation. Four blood filters included in the extracorporeal circuit were removed one by one at 30-minute intervals. The prefilter pressures rose gradually during the whole experiment. Scanning electron microscopy of the filter surface revealed equal amounts of deposits before, during and after the infusion of plasma. Only minimal amounts of fibrin were found on the filter surfaces by immunoelectrophoresis. Mean arterial pressure, arterial blood gases, fibrinogen concentration, platelet count and leukocyte count were followed before, during and after plasma infusion and showed no significant changes. Thus, it is possible to administer limited amounts of plasma to defibrinogenated dogs subjected to extracorporeal circulation.", "contents": "Plasma administration to defibrinogenated dogs during extracorporeal circulation. Plasma, in an amount corresponding to 0.05 gm fibrinogen/Kg of body weight, was administered during one hour to defibrinogenated dogs subjected to extracorporeal circulation. Four blood filters included in the extracorporeal circuit were removed one by one at 30-minute intervals. The prefilter pressures rose gradually during the whole experiment. Scanning electron microscopy of the filter surface revealed equal amounts of deposits before, during and after the infusion of plasma. Only minimal amounts of fibrin were found on the filter surfaces by immunoelectrophoresis. Mean arterial pressure, arterial blood gases, fibrinogen concentration, platelet count and leukocyte count were followed before, during and after plasma infusion and showed no significant changes. Thus, it is possible to administer limited amounts of plasma to defibrinogenated dogs subjected to extracorporeal circulation.", "PMID": 435130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2555", "title": "Use of plasma polymerization for preparing silicone-coated membranes for possible use in blood oxygenators.", "content": "The plasma polymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) over the microporous polypropylene membrane Celgard 2400, over polypropylene filter membranes, and over glass slides was investigated. The rate of polymer deposition was dependent upon the location of the substrate materials in the reaction vessel. The increase in weight of all the substrates was linear with the time of reaction, indicating a uniform polymerization rate. The rate of polymer deposition over polypropylene filters was found to be 2.27 micrograms/cm(2)/min for both D3, and D4, whereas over the glass slides it was 1.53 and 1.87 microgram/cm(2)/min for D3 and D4, respectively. The coated Celgard membranes showed better blood compatibility that Silastic sheeting or glass.", "contents": "Use of plasma polymerization for preparing silicone-coated membranes for possible use in blood oxygenators. The plasma polymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) over the microporous polypropylene membrane Celgard 2400, over polypropylene filter membranes, and over glass slides was investigated. The rate of polymer deposition was dependent upon the location of the substrate materials in the reaction vessel. The increase in weight of all the substrates was linear with the time of reaction, indicating a uniform polymerization rate. The rate of polymer deposition over polypropylene filters was found to be 2.27 micrograms/cm(2)/min for both D3, and D4, whereas over the glass slides it was 1.53 and 1.87 microgram/cm(2)/min for D3 and D4, respectively. The coated Celgard membranes showed better blood compatibility that Silastic sheeting or glass.", "PMID": 435131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2556", "title": "Pathogenesis of transient ischemic attacks within the vertebrobasilar arterial system.", "content": "Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by xenon 133 inhalation in 36 patients with vertebrobasilar arterial insufficiency (VBI), three patients with brain stem infarction, and 15 age-matched normal controls before and after inducing postural hypotension. Probes mounted over the suboccipital area by means of a helmet were used to measure rCBF over the brain stem and cerebellar regions. When lying flat, rCBF values measured over both cerebral hemispheres and the brain stem-cerebellar regions in patients with VBI were not significantly different from normal controls. Unlike carotid transient ischemic attacks, regional flow reduction rarely persisted for three weeks after transient ischemic symptoms in patients with VBI. When postural hypotension was induced, rCBF became significantly reduced in patients with VBI whether or not they were treated with papaverine. Dysautoregulation was restricted to vertebral, basilar, and posterior cerebral arterial distribution in patients with VBI of 1 to 12 months' duration, but was more widespread and involved both cerebral hemispheres in long-standing VBI. Hemodynamic factors and dysautoregulation appear to play a part in the pathogenesis of symptoms of VBI.", "contents": "Pathogenesis of transient ischemic attacks within the vertebrobasilar arterial system. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by xenon 133 inhalation in 36 patients with vertebrobasilar arterial insufficiency (VBI), three patients with brain stem infarction, and 15 age-matched normal controls before and after inducing postural hypotension. Probes mounted over the suboccipital area by means of a helmet were used to measure rCBF over the brain stem and cerebellar regions. When lying flat, rCBF values measured over both cerebral hemispheres and the brain stem-cerebellar regions in patients with VBI were not significantly different from normal controls. Unlike carotid transient ischemic attacks, regional flow reduction rarely persisted for three weeks after transient ischemic symptoms in patients with VBI. When postural hypotension was induced, rCBF became significantly reduced in patients with VBI whether or not they were treated with papaverine. Dysautoregulation was restricted to vertebral, basilar, and posterior cerebral arterial distribution in patients with VBI of 1 to 12 months' duration, but was more widespread and involved both cerebral hemispheres in long-standing VBI. Hemodynamic factors and dysautoregulation appear to play a part in the pathogenesis of symptoms of VBI.", "PMID": 435132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2557", "title": "Wernicke's and global aphasia without alexia.", "content": "It has been proposed that the comprehension of written language requires transcoding from the visual (grapheme) to the auditory (phoneme). It has also been proposed that visual word images can be comprehended without grapheme-phoneme transcoding. We describe three aphasic patients with left hemisphere impairment who had poor speech comprehension but could comprehend written language. One of these patients had a subsequent right hemisphere lesion and lost his ability to read. We propose that the right hemisphere in some individuals may be capable of extracting semantic information from iconic images (ideogram) without phonological processing.", "contents": "Wernicke's and global aphasia without alexia. It has been proposed that the comprehension of written language requires transcoding from the visual (grapheme) to the auditory (phoneme). It has also been proposed that visual word images can be comprehended without grapheme-phoneme transcoding. We describe three aphasic patients with left hemisphere impairment who had poor speech comprehension but could comprehend written language. One of these patients had a subsequent right hemisphere lesion and lost his ability to read. We propose that the right hemisphere in some individuals may be capable of extracting semantic information from iconic images (ideogram) without phonological processing.", "PMID": 435133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2558", "title": "Dominant language functions of the right hemisphere? Prosody and emotional gesturing.", "content": "Two patients lost the ability to impart affective qualities to their speech following lesions in the right hemisphere. Arguments are given to support the idea that the right or \"minor\" hemisphere has a dominant role in modulating the affective components of speech. The anatomical organization of the cortical areas subserving affective speech in the right hemisphere seem to be similar to the organization of cortical areas subserving propositional speech in the left or \"major\" hemisphere.", "contents": "Dominant language functions of the right hemisphere? Prosody and emotional gesturing. Two patients lost the ability to impart affective qualities to their speech following lesions in the right hemisphere. Arguments are given to support the idea that the right or \"minor\" hemisphere has a dominant role in modulating the affective components of speech. The anatomical organization of the cortical areas subserving affective speech in the right hemisphere seem to be similar to the organization of cortical areas subserving propositional speech in the left or \"major\" hemisphere.", "PMID": 435134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2559", "title": "Visual-motor adaptation. Quantitative demonstration in patients with posterior fossa involvement.", "content": "Short-term visual-motor adaptation to magnifying spectacle lenses was studied in normal subjects and in patients with nonacute posterior fossa lesions. When normal subjects, looking through magnifying lenses, pointed open loop to targets without viewing their hands, they initially underestimated the distance (magnification effect). After a 20-minute close-loop training or adaptation exposure period during which they viewed the performance of their hands, a modified visual-motor scheme evolved, compensating for about half of the lens-induced pointing error (adaptation effect). Removal of the lenses after adaptation caused open-loop, overshooting pointing errors (adaptation after-effect). Four patients with remission of cerebellar signs showed normal visual-motor adaptive performance, evidence of ability to recalibrate gain. One patient with persisting cerebellar ataxia was unable to recalibrate gain during close-loop visual-motor training. His history of transient palatal myoclonus implicates a role for the cerebellar-olivary system in calibration of visual-motor gain.", "contents": "Visual-motor adaptation. Quantitative demonstration in patients with posterior fossa involvement. Short-term visual-motor adaptation to magnifying spectacle lenses was studied in normal subjects and in patients with nonacute posterior fossa lesions. When normal subjects, looking through magnifying lenses, pointed open loop to targets without viewing their hands, they initially underestimated the distance (magnification effect). After a 20-minute close-loop training or adaptation exposure period during which they viewed the performance of their hands, a modified visual-motor scheme evolved, compensating for about half of the lens-induced pointing error (adaptation effect). Removal of the lenses after adaptation caused open-loop, overshooting pointing errors (adaptation after-effect). Four patients with remission of cerebellar signs showed normal visual-motor adaptive performance, evidence of ability to recalibrate gain. One patient with persisting cerebellar ataxia was unable to recalibrate gain during close-loop visual-motor training. His history of transient palatal myoclonus implicates a role for the cerebellar-olivary system in calibration of visual-motor gain.", "PMID": 435135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2560", "title": "Bilaterally recorded brain stem auditory evoked responses. Their asymmetric abnormalities and lesions of the brain stem.", "content": "Simultaneous bilateral recordings (C3 to A1 and C4 to A2) of brain stem auditory evoked responses have been studied in 67 supratentorial lesions, nine midbrain lesions, 21 intrinsic pontine lesions, and 23 extrinsic compressions of the pons. The responses in supratentorial lesions showed completely normal records. In midbrain lesions, wave V was specifically altered. As wave 1 has been shown to be a far-field seventh nerve potential, and wave V the midbrain potential, waves II to IV can be inferred to originate in the central auditory pathway between the seventh nerve and the midbrain. Alterations of waves II to IV correlated well with localization of pontine lesions, and asymmetric alterations of the bilaterally recorded responses were associated with unilateral lesions of the brain stem auditory pathway and/or lesions of the crossed auditory projections.", "contents": "Bilaterally recorded brain stem auditory evoked responses. Their asymmetric abnormalities and lesions of the brain stem. Simultaneous bilateral recordings (C3 to A1 and C4 to A2) of brain stem auditory evoked responses have been studied in 67 supratentorial lesions, nine midbrain lesions, 21 intrinsic pontine lesions, and 23 extrinsic compressions of the pons. The responses in supratentorial lesions showed completely normal records. In midbrain lesions, wave V was specifically altered. As wave 1 has been shown to be a far-field seventh nerve potential, and wave V the midbrain potential, waves II to IV can be inferred to originate in the central auditory pathway between the seventh nerve and the midbrain. Alterations of waves II to IV correlated well with localization of pontine lesions, and asymmetric alterations of the bilaterally recorded responses were associated with unilateral lesions of the brain stem auditory pathway and/or lesions of the crossed auditory projections.", "PMID": 435136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2561", "title": "Visual evoked responses in pernicious anemia.", "content": "We describe three newly diagnosed and untreated cases of pernicious anemia (PA) with clinical features suggestive of subacute combined degeneration. Visual evoked responses (VERs) were evaluted in all three patients. In each instance, delayed responses were obtained, suggesting that involvement of the visual pathways may be an early and perhaps not uncommon manifestation in PA, even in the absence of clinical stigmata of visual impairment. The need for excluding PA in cases of myelopathy with impaired VERs is stressed.", "contents": "Visual evoked responses in pernicious anemia. We describe three newly diagnosed and untreated cases of pernicious anemia (PA) with clinical features suggestive of subacute combined degeneration. Visual evoked responses (VERs) were evaluted in all three patients. In each instance, delayed responses were obtained, suggesting that involvement of the visual pathways may be an early and perhaps not uncommon manifestation in PA, even in the absence of clinical stigmata of visual impairment. The need for excluding PA in cases of myelopathy with impaired VERs is stressed.", "PMID": 435137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2562", "title": "Acute anterior myelitis complicating West Nile fever.", "content": "A healthy young man developed acute anterior myelitis resembling the \"polio syndrome.\" He had visited an area (the Gulf of Suez) in which West Nile fever is endemic prior to his illness. The course of his febrile illness, the spinal fluid findings, and complement fixation antibody titers established the diagnosis of West Nile fever. Meningoencephalitis is a serious, and previously the only known, complication of this usually benign febrile illness. This is the first report, to our knowledge, of another neurological complication, namely acute anterior myelitis.", "contents": "Acute anterior myelitis complicating West Nile fever. A healthy young man developed acute anterior myelitis resembling the \"polio syndrome.\" He had visited an area (the Gulf of Suez) in which West Nile fever is endemic prior to his illness. The course of his febrile illness, the spinal fluid findings, and complement fixation antibody titers established the diagnosis of West Nile fever. Meningoencephalitis is a serious, and previously the only known, complication of this usually benign febrile illness. This is the first report, to our knowledge, of another neurological complication, namely acute anterior myelitis.", "PMID": 435138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2563", "title": "Delayed meningitis following stapes surgery.", "content": "Perilymphatic fistulae, developing even years after stapedectomy, open a communication between the perilymph and middle ear. These fistulae constitute a potential pathway for flora of the middle ear to invade the subarachnoid space by way of the cochlear aqueduct. Our patient developed pneumococcal meningitis 14 months after stapedectomy. The history of stapedectomy in a patient with meningitis is an indication for reexploration+ion of the operative site. The appearance of fistula symptoms in patients who have had stapedectomy indicates a high risk for development of intracranial infection.", "contents": "Delayed meningitis following stapes surgery. Perilymphatic fistulae, developing even years after stapedectomy, open a communication between the perilymph and middle ear. These fistulae constitute a potential pathway for flora of the middle ear to invade the subarachnoid space by way of the cochlear aqueduct. Our patient developed pneumococcal meningitis 14 months after stapedectomy. The history of stapedectomy in a patient with meningitis is an indication for reexploration+ion of the operative site. The appearance of fistula symptoms in patients who have had stapedectomy indicates a high risk for development of intracranial infection.", "PMID": 435139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2564", "title": "Electroencephalographic absence status with minimal behavior change.", "content": "Difficulty in correlating EEG abnormalities with clinical seizures is emphasized in this case report of an epileptic patient with electrical status epilepticus and normal behavior. In addition, the usefulness of dichotic listening tests in the identification of subtle perceptive and expressive impairments is illustrated in this same patient at a time of noncompliance with anticonvulsant therapy.", "contents": "Electroencephalographic absence status with minimal behavior change. Difficulty in correlating EEG abnormalities with clinical seizures is emphasized in this case report of an epileptic patient with electrical status epilepticus and normal behavior. In addition, the usefulness of dichotic listening tests in the identification of subtle perceptive and expressive impairments is illustrated in this same patient at a time of noncompliance with anticonvulsant therapy.", "PMID": 435140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2565", "title": "Conservation surgery in laryngeal cancer and its role following failed radiotherapy. A histopathological and clinical study of 32 cases.", "content": "The partial laryngectomy specimens from 32 patients with laryngeal carcinoma were histologically examined by the technique of whole organ sectioning. Twenty-three of these patients had previous irradiation therapy. We identify local criteria for performing conservation laryngeal surgery based on clinical and histopathological studies. These criteria are borne out as success or failure, and outcome could be accurately predicted when adhered to. The salvage rate for patients receiving conservation surgery after failed radiotherapy was 60%, while 43% retained a functional larynx.", "contents": "Conservation surgery in laryngeal cancer and its role following failed radiotherapy. A histopathological and clinical study of 32 cases. The partial laryngectomy specimens from 32 patients with laryngeal carcinoma were histologically examined by the technique of whole organ sectioning. Twenty-three of these patients had previous irradiation therapy. We identify local criteria for performing conservation laryngeal surgery based on clinical and histopathological studies. These criteria are borne out as success or failure, and outcome could be accurately predicted when adhered to. The salvage rate for patients receiving conservation surgery after failed radiotherapy was 60%, while 43% retained a functional larynx.", "PMID": 435145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2566", "title": "Quantitative relationships of the ototoxic interaction of kanamycin and ethacrynic acid.", "content": "We determined the range of doses of kanamycin sulfate and ethacrynic acid that results in an ototoxic interaction in guinea pigs. In addition, we determined the time interval between the administration of the two drugs that is needed to produce this interaction. In all cases, the magnitude of the ototoxic lesion was determined by measuring the cochlea's ability to generate both the sensitivity and intensity functions of the ac cochlear potential. In addition, the cochlear pathologic conditions, as determined by counting the number of missing hair cells in the organ of Corti, was found to correlate highly with the ac cochlear potential data. The dosage range of ethacrynic acid during which the interaction occurs is very narrow, while the dose range of kanamycin is very large.", "contents": "Quantitative relationships of the ototoxic interaction of kanamycin and ethacrynic acid. We determined the range of doses of kanamycin sulfate and ethacrynic acid that results in an ototoxic interaction in guinea pigs. In addition, we determined the time interval between the administration of the two drugs that is needed to produce this interaction. In all cases, the magnitude of the ototoxic lesion was determined by measuring the cochlea's ability to generate both the sensitivity and intensity functions of the ac cochlear potential. In addition, the cochlear pathologic conditions, as determined by counting the number of missing hair cells in the organ of Corti, was found to correlate highly with the ac cochlear potential data. The dosage range of ethacrynic acid during which the interaction occurs is very narrow, while the dose range of kanamycin is very large.", "PMID": 435146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2567", "title": "Argon laser in human tympanoplasty.", "content": "We describe the use of an argon laser in human tympanoplasty. The laser was used in two different ways: (1) to stop the bleeding of small vessels in the external auditory channel and eardrum remains; and (2) to spot-weld the new eardrum graft in the proper position. Seven operations were performed. We report the results.", "contents": "Argon laser in human tympanoplasty. We describe the use of an argon laser in human tympanoplasty. The laser was used in two different ways: (1) to stop the bleeding of small vessels in the external auditory channel and eardrum remains; and (2) to spot-weld the new eardrum graft in the proper position. Seven operations were performed. We report the results.", "PMID": 435147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2568", "title": "Management of the flap tracheostomy. An experimental study.", "content": "The flap tracheostomy was studied in 25 adult canines to further investigate its best management. Tracheostomies were performed by employing the inverted U flap incision in the trachea. After decannulation, the flap was either formally resewn to the trachea, bluntly dissected from the surrounding soft tissues, or left in place. The time required for epidermal closure over the tracheostomy site was measured, along with fixation of skin to soft tissues in the area. Histologic examinations were made, and tracheal dimensions were calculated on sections through the stomal area. More rapid skin closure and less soft tissue fixation occurred in animals that underwent resuturing or release of the tracheal flap. In all groups, cartilage viability and regrowth were noted. Tracheal diameters were maintained in all groups, but smoother contouring was seen with resuturing. Additional support for the flap tracheostomy is provided from this animal experimentation.", "contents": "Management of the flap tracheostomy. An experimental study. The flap tracheostomy was studied in 25 adult canines to further investigate its best management. Tracheostomies were performed by employing the inverted U flap incision in the trachea. After decannulation, the flap was either formally resewn to the trachea, bluntly dissected from the surrounding soft tissues, or left in place. The time required for epidermal closure over the tracheostomy site was measured, along with fixation of skin to soft tissues in the area. Histologic examinations were made, and tracheal dimensions were calculated on sections through the stomal area. More rapid skin closure and less soft tissue fixation occurred in animals that underwent resuturing or release of the tracheal flap. In all groups, cartilage viability and regrowth were noted. Tracheal diameters were maintained in all groups, but smoother contouring was seen with resuturing. Additional support for the flap tracheostomy is provided from this animal experimentation.", "PMID": 435148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2569", "title": "Nasolacrimal obstruction after maxillary sinus and rhinoplastic surgery.", "content": "Transient nasolacrimal obstruction is a common complication of maxillary sinus, as well as rhinoplastic surgery. Permanent epiphora, however, is unusual. This communication describes 11 patients with surgical injury to the lacrimal drainage system, which necessitated dacryocystorhinostomy for correction. Seven of these cases occurred subsequent to nasoantral window procedures, three occurred after rhinoplasty, and one resulted from a partial maxillectomy. It has been shown that the two areas most vulnerable to inadvertent surgical injury are the nasolacrimal sac, located just beneath the medial canthal ligament, and the ductal ostium in the inferior meatus. We discuss the relevant anatomy of the nasolacrimal apparatus, in addition to surgical methods for avoiding injury to the system. We also describe the currently applied techniques for diagnosing and managing lacrimal obstruction and review the literature.", "contents": "Nasolacrimal obstruction after maxillary sinus and rhinoplastic surgery. Transient nasolacrimal obstruction is a common complication of maxillary sinus, as well as rhinoplastic surgery. Permanent epiphora, however, is unusual. This communication describes 11 patients with surgical injury to the lacrimal drainage system, which necessitated dacryocystorhinostomy for correction. Seven of these cases occurred subsequent to nasoantral window procedures, three occurred after rhinoplasty, and one resulted from a partial maxillectomy. It has been shown that the two areas most vulnerable to inadvertent surgical injury are the nasolacrimal sac, located just beneath the medial canthal ligament, and the ductal ostium in the inferior meatus. We discuss the relevant anatomy of the nasolacrimal apparatus, in addition to surgical methods for avoiding injury to the system. We also describe the currently applied techniques for diagnosing and managing lacrimal obstruction and review the literature.", "PMID": 435149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2570", "title": "Neurogenic sarcoma of the head and neck.", "content": "We discuss our experience in the diagnosis and management of seven cases of neurogenic sarcomas of the head and neck. These uncommon tumors, which affect all ages, arise most frequently from the brachial plexus, sympathetic chain, and the cranial nerves or their branches. An enlarging mass is the most common initially appearing symptom. Diagnosis may be difficult and rests heavily on gross evidence of a relationship between the tumor and its nerve of origin. Histologically, the lesions are composed of spindle cells with varying degrees of pleomorphism in a pattern that is frequently undistinguishable from fibrosarcomas. Ultrastructural studies may be helpful in establishing the neurogenic origin of these tumors. Neurogenic sarcoma of the head and neck has an extremely poor prognosis. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment, although radiotherapy is important for palliation.", "contents": "Neurogenic sarcoma of the head and neck. We discuss our experience in the diagnosis and management of seven cases of neurogenic sarcomas of the head and neck. These uncommon tumors, which affect all ages, arise most frequently from the brachial plexus, sympathetic chain, and the cranial nerves or their branches. An enlarging mass is the most common initially appearing symptom. Diagnosis may be difficult and rests heavily on gross evidence of a relationship between the tumor and its nerve of origin. Histologically, the lesions are composed of spindle cells with varying degrees of pleomorphism in a pattern that is frequently undistinguishable from fibrosarcomas. Ultrastructural studies may be helpful in establishing the neurogenic origin of these tumors. Neurogenic sarcoma of the head and neck has an extremely poor prognosis. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment, although radiotherapy is important for palliation.", "PMID": 435150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2571", "title": "Auditory dysfunction with facial paralysis.", "content": "A series of 58 patients with idiopathic facial paralysis were studied to determine if a concomitant cochlear or eight nerve auditory dysfunction could be identified with traditional audiologic tests. Results indicated that only those patients with a facial nerve lesion, proximal to the stapedius branch, experienced reduced tolerance for loud sounds, reduction of speech discrimination at high-intensity levels, and abnormal loudness growth. Such findings suggest that changes in auditory function, accompanying facial nerve paralysis, are a mechanical effect due to absence of stapedial action. Site of lesion tests in this sample failed to demonstrate eighth nerve dysfunction and, thus, does not support a theory of polyneuropathy that involves the auditory nerve.", "contents": "Auditory dysfunction with facial paralysis. A series of 58 patients with idiopathic facial paralysis were studied to determine if a concomitant cochlear or eight nerve auditory dysfunction could be identified with traditional audiologic tests. Results indicated that only those patients with a facial nerve lesion, proximal to the stapedius branch, experienced reduced tolerance for loud sounds, reduction of speech discrimination at high-intensity levels, and abnormal loudness growth. Such findings suggest that changes in auditory function, accompanying facial nerve paralysis, are a mechanical effect due to absence of stapedial action. Site of lesion tests in this sample failed to demonstrate eighth nerve dysfunction and, thus, does not support a theory of polyneuropathy that involves the auditory nerve.", "PMID": 435151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2572", "title": "Evaluation of frontal sinus fractures.", "content": "Forty-six instances of frontal sinus fracture were reviewed to determine the factors that are important in the initial clinical and radiologic evaluation. Associated injuries, the appearance of the forehead, and roentgenographic studies were all considered. Polytomography is the most accurate diagnostic technique and is justified in all patients. The otolaryngologist must examine all roentgenograms personally, with particular attention paid to the nasofrontal duct region and to the magnitude of depression of fracture fragments.", "contents": "Evaluation of frontal sinus fractures. Forty-six instances of frontal sinus fracture were reviewed to determine the factors that are important in the initial clinical and radiologic evaluation. Associated injuries, the appearance of the forehead, and roentgenographic studies were all considered. Polytomography is the most accurate diagnostic technique and is justified in all patients. The otolaryngologist must examine all roentgenograms personally, with particular attention paid to the nasofrontal duct region and to the magnitude of depression of fracture fragments.", "PMID": 435152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2573", "title": "Abscess of the lingual tonsil.", "content": "Abscess of the lingual tonsil is an unusual entity that may cause diagnostic difficulty. The pathophysiologic mechanism of formation was correlated with normal posterior tongue histology in a case of lingual tonsillar abscess.", "contents": "Abscess of the lingual tonsil. Abscess of the lingual tonsil is an unusual entity that may cause diagnostic difficulty. The pathophysiologic mechanism of formation was correlated with normal posterior tongue histology in a case of lingual tonsillar abscess.", "PMID": 435153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2574", "title": "Calcifying odontogenic cyst of the maxilla.", "content": "Large cystic lesions of the maxillary sinus may initially manifest with malocclusion, cosmetic deformity, or both. Their origin may be odontogenic or nonodontogenic. Proper diagnosis of these cysts immeasurably aids in adequate (nonmutilating) treatment. A recent case of a calcifying and keratinizing odontogenic cyst that initially manifested as a facial mass exemplifies the need for adequate clinical and histological diagnosis to ensure appropriate treatment. Fewer than 35 cases have been reported since the original description in 1962.", "contents": "Calcifying odontogenic cyst of the maxilla. Large cystic lesions of the maxillary sinus may initially manifest with malocclusion, cosmetic deformity, or both. Their origin may be odontogenic or nonodontogenic. Proper diagnosis of these cysts immeasurably aids in adequate (nonmutilating) treatment. A recent case of a calcifying and keratinizing odontogenic cyst that initially manifested as a facial mass exemplifies the need for adequate clinical and histological diagnosis to ensure appropriate treatment. Fewer than 35 cases have been reported since the original description in 1962.", "PMID": 435154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2575", "title": "A technique for stroboscopic examination of the vocal folds using fiberoptics.", "content": "An improved fiberoptic laryngoscope is connected to Timcke's stroboscope. The laryngoscope gives a magnified view of 2x and is prefocused from 5 cm to infinity. The combination of the stroboscope and the laryngoscope gives an excellent slow-motion view of the vocal fold movement.", "contents": "A technique for stroboscopic examination of the vocal folds using fiberoptics. An improved fiberoptic laryngoscope is connected to Timcke's stroboscope. The laryngoscope gives a magnified view of 2x and is prefocused from 5 cm to infinity. The combination of the stroboscope and the laryngoscope gives an excellent slow-motion view of the vocal fold movement.", "PMID": 435155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2576", "title": "Persistent pharyngeal membrane.", "content": "A 39-year-old man was examined for a severe speech impediment that was first noted in early childhood. Otolaryngologic examination demonstrated a membranous structure confluent from anterior pillar and from the soft palate to the base of the tongue. A review of the literature reveals this to be a persistent pharyngeal membrane, which is a rare congenital anomaly.", "contents": "Persistent pharyngeal membrane. A 39-year-old man was examined for a severe speech impediment that was first noted in early childhood. Otolaryngologic examination demonstrated a membranous structure confluent from anterior pillar and from the soft palate to the base of the tongue. A review of the literature reveals this to be a persistent pharyngeal membrane, which is a rare congenital anomaly.", "PMID": 435156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2577", "title": "Voluntary nystagmus masquerading as Tullio's Phenomenon.", "content": "Nystagmoid eye movements elicited by humming loudly was initially misdiagnosed as Tullio's phenomenon (abnormal acoustical stimulation of the vestibular apparatus owing to labyrinthine fistula). Further workup lead to a final diagnosis of a form of voluntary nystagmus characterized in some reports as \"hysterical mystagmus\". Some of the characteristics of this example of voluntary nystagmus differed from generally accepted descriptions.", "contents": "Voluntary nystagmus masquerading as Tullio's Phenomenon. Nystagmoid eye movements elicited by humming loudly was initially misdiagnosed as Tullio's phenomenon (abnormal acoustical stimulation of the vestibular apparatus owing to labyrinthine fistula). Further workup lead to a final diagnosis of a form of voluntary nystagmus characterized in some reports as \"hysterical mystagmus\". Some of the characteristics of this example of voluntary nystagmus differed from generally accepted descriptions.", "PMID": 435157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2578", "title": "Alteration of oxidative enzymes (LDH and MDH) in perilymph after noise exposure.", "content": "Chinchillas were exposed to noise (123 dB, 1/2 h, 700--2800 Hz). The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) was studied immediately after exposure or 1, 7, 14, 21, or 28 days later. LDH activity in perilymph doubled immediately after exposure, gradually decreasing to control values in about a month. The activity of MDH not only doubled immediately after the exposure but continued to rise for at least another 24 h, reaching a peak value of 3.5 times normal at 24 h. The activity was still 1.6 times normal even after a month of recovery. The enzyme activity of serum and CSF remained within the control range throughout the experimental period except for an initial increase of serum enzyme activity due to anesthetic. The results demonstrate that the morphological changes induced by a noise exposure that is known to produce permanent threshold shift (PTS) are reflected in a significant elevation of oxidative enzymes in perilymph. Possible mechanisms of the elevation of enzymes in perilymph are discussed.", "contents": "Alteration of oxidative enzymes (LDH and MDH) in perilymph after noise exposure. Chinchillas were exposed to noise (123 dB, 1/2 h, 700--2800 Hz). The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) was studied immediately after exposure or 1, 7, 14, 21, or 28 days later. LDH activity in perilymph doubled immediately after exposure, gradually decreasing to control values in about a month. The activity of MDH not only doubled immediately after the exposure but continued to rise for at least another 24 h, reaching a peak value of 3.5 times normal at 24 h. The activity was still 1.6 times normal even after a month of recovery. The enzyme activity of serum and CSF remained within the control range throughout the experimental period except for an initial increase of serum enzyme activity due to anesthetic. The results demonstrate that the morphological changes induced by a noise exposure that is known to produce permanent threshold shift (PTS) are reflected in a significant elevation of oxidative enzymes in perilymph. Possible mechanisms of the elevation of enzymes in perilymph are discussed.", "PMID": 435162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2579", "title": "Brain-stem responses of the cat and interaural attenuation.", "content": "The early auditory evoked responses have been studied in bilaterally hearing cats, and in animals with hereditary unilateral anacusis. Cross-over stimulation of the hearing ear occurs at an interaural attenuation of 50--50 dB, and all six waves of the responsare present at supra-threshold stimulus levels.", "contents": "Brain-stem responses of the cat and interaural attenuation. The early auditory evoked responses have been studied in bilaterally hearing cats, and in animals with hereditary unilateral anacusis. Cross-over stimulation of the hearing ear occurs at an interaural attenuation of 50--50 dB, and all six waves of the responsare present at supra-threshold stimulus levels.", "PMID": 435163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2580", "title": "Electron microscopical and histochemical studies of outer hair cells in acoustically exposed rabbits.", "content": "After acoustic exposure, in the infranuclear region of the basal turn histochemically the lactate dehydrogenase activity increased more than normal. In the lower half of the second turn of this region, small vesicles, free ribosomes and coated vesicles decreased in number and cytoplasmic matrix become lower in electron density and lactic dehydrogenase activity decreased. Small vesicles were found to be preferentially distributed in the presynaptic side of the afferent nerve endings. Movement of these small vesicles leads to the speculation that small vesicles have close relationship to the afferent nerve endings.", "contents": "Electron microscopical and histochemical studies of outer hair cells in acoustically exposed rabbits. After acoustic exposure, in the infranuclear region of the basal turn histochemically the lactate dehydrogenase activity increased more than normal. In the lower half of the second turn of this region, small vesicles, free ribosomes and coated vesicles decreased in number and cytoplasmic matrix become lower in electron density and lactic dehydrogenase activity decreased. Small vesicles were found to be preferentially distributed in the presynaptic side of the afferent nerve endings. Movement of these small vesicles leads to the speculation that small vesicles have close relationship to the afferent nerve endings.", "PMID": 435164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2581", "title": "[Time resolution ability in dichotic hearing experiments (author's transl)].", "content": "Concerning auditory analysis of speech signals time resolution is one of the most important ability of the hearing system. In psychoacoustic experiments with dichotic represented bursts of noise the detection and time resolution of short changes of interaural time delay and noise coherence are investigated. The results of normal and pathological binaural hearing are discussed and compared to other auditory time analysis experiments.", "contents": "[Time resolution ability in dichotic hearing experiments (author's transl)]. Concerning auditory analysis of speech signals time resolution is one of the most important ability of the hearing system. In psychoacoustic experiments with dichotic represented bursts of noise the detection and time resolution of short changes of interaural time delay and noise coherence are investigated. The results of normal and pathological binaural hearing are discussed and compared to other auditory time analysis experiments.", "PMID": 435165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2582", "title": "[The influences of hyperbaric oxygen (OHP) on the normal inner ear of guinea pigs. Simultaneous registrations of cochlea microphonics (CM) and nerve potentials (AP) (author's transl)].", "content": "Guinea pigs were treated with 3 bar oxygen pressure in a hyperbaric chamber and CMs and APs were simultaneously registrated. The results depended on the kind of the usual anesthesy. If nembutal i.p. was used, the CMs and APs had been increased significant shortly after oxygen pressure reached 3 bar (CMs increased more than APs). If urethane i.p. was used, the CMs and APs increases not so significantly. These results are traced back to the different effect of the both anesthetic drugs on the blood flow in the brain. Oxygen toxicity in the inner ear was observed after OHP of 3 bar more than 30 min but only by APs. The CMs didn't show any signs of oxygen toxicity under the same conditions during 60 min and more.", "contents": "[The influences of hyperbaric oxygen (OHP) on the normal inner ear of guinea pigs. Simultaneous registrations of cochlea microphonics (CM) and nerve potentials (AP) (author's transl)]. Guinea pigs were treated with 3 bar oxygen pressure in a hyperbaric chamber and CMs and APs were simultaneously registrated. The results depended on the kind of the usual anesthesy. If nembutal i.p. was used, the CMs and APs had been increased significant shortly after oxygen pressure reached 3 bar (CMs increased more than APs). If urethane i.p. was used, the CMs and APs increases not so significantly. These results are traced back to the different effect of the both anesthetic drugs on the blood flow in the brain. Oxygen toxicity in the inner ear was observed after OHP of 3 bar more than 30 min but only by APs. The CMs didn't show any signs of oxygen toxicity under the same conditions during 60 min and more.", "PMID": 435166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2583", "title": "Simultaneous recording of fast and slow auditory evoked potentials (slow-fast-simultaneous-ERA, SFS-ERA).", "content": "In order to reduce measurement time we have used part of the interstimulus interval of the slow cortical responses to record fast brain stem responses. For this purpose we reconstructed a programmable audiometer and preamplifier which are controlled by a computer. These, with 1/4 ms-click and tone-burst stimulation simultaneously gained fast and slow responses, not only give a frequency-related view of the threshold and the kind of hearing loss--because of amplitude and latency--, but also in some cases--because of differences between both responses--give ideas of the possible location of the hearing impairment through the auditory pathways. The audiological value of this new method is discussed and explained by giving examples of two interesting cases, one central-neural hearing loss and one questionable aggravation.", "contents": "Simultaneous recording of fast and slow auditory evoked potentials (slow-fast-simultaneous-ERA, SFS-ERA). In order to reduce measurement time we have used part of the interstimulus interval of the slow cortical responses to record fast brain stem responses. For this purpose we reconstructed a programmable audiometer and preamplifier which are controlled by a computer. These, with 1/4 ms-click and tone-burst stimulation simultaneously gained fast and slow responses, not only give a frequency-related view of the threshold and the kind of hearing loss--because of amplitude and latency--, but also in some cases--because of differences between both responses--give ideas of the possible location of the hearing impairment through the auditory pathways. The audiological value of this new method is discussed and explained by giving examples of two interesting cases, one central-neural hearing loss and one questionable aggravation.", "PMID": 435167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2584", "title": "Cochlear otosclerosis. A continuing fantasy.", "content": "Sensorineural hearing loss without an associated conductive loss cannot be attributed to otosclerosis.", "contents": "Cochlear otosclerosis. A continuing fantasy. Sensorineural hearing loss without an associated conductive loss cannot be attributed to otosclerosis.", "PMID": 435168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2585", "title": "Speech audiometry by a speech synthesizer. I. A preliminary report.", "content": "A preliminary report on speech test results with a portable, text-to-speech synthesizer is presented. The differentiation scores achieved at speed 80 words/min vary. So far the best mean differentiation scores in normal material are 75%. The increase of the presentation level improves the differentiation score, as does the decrease of word speed and training. The future and present uses of this system are discussed. These include: devices for the handicapped, e.g. to produce speech for the mute, man-machine communication through speech in industry control, data processing systems and uses in audiological diagnostics. The study is continued.", "contents": "Speech audiometry by a speech synthesizer. I. A preliminary report. A preliminary report on speech test results with a portable, text-to-speech synthesizer is presented. The differentiation scores achieved at speed 80 words/min vary. So far the best mean differentiation scores in normal material are 75%. The increase of the presentation level improves the differentiation score, as does the decrease of word speed and training. The future and present uses of this system are discussed. These include: devices for the handicapped, e.g. to produce speech for the mute, man-machine communication through speech in industry control, data processing systems and uses in audiological diagnostics. The study is continued.", "PMID": 435169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2586", "title": "The effect of the click repetition rate on the latency of the auditory evoked brain stem response and its clinical use for a neurological diagnosis.", "content": "The effects of click repetition rate on the latency of the auditory brain stem responses (BSR) and its possible use as a clinical diagnostic tool of the brain stem disorders were investigated. When the click rate was increased, the latency of the BSR waves was prolonged. The latency of the later response components increased more than that of the earlier response components. This method was applied to the clinical cases with brain stem disorders. A case with a IVth ventricle epidermoid tumor showed a marked latency prolongation and disappearance of the waves at higher repetition rates. An explanation of the latency shift in the normal subjects and the abnormal responses of the patient to repetition rate is attempted.", "contents": "The effect of the click repetition rate on the latency of the auditory evoked brain stem response and its clinical use for a neurological diagnosis. The effects of click repetition rate on the latency of the auditory brain stem responses (BSR) and its possible use as a clinical diagnostic tool of the brain stem disorders were investigated. When the click rate was increased, the latency of the BSR waves was prolonged. The latency of the later response components increased more than that of the earlier response components. This method was applied to the clinical cases with brain stem disorders. A case with a IVth ventricle epidermoid tumor showed a marked latency prolongation and disappearance of the waves at higher repetition rates. An explanation of the latency shift in the normal subjects and the abnormal responses of the patient to repetition rate is attempted.", "PMID": 435170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2587", "title": "Surgical treatment of the infected preauricular sinus.", "content": "Preauricular sinus is a frequent occurring congenital abnormality (circa 0.25% in the white race), but gives mostly no symptoms. In a certain amount of cases symptoms can arise as recurring purulent secretion or a preauricular abscess. If the disease is recognized an adequate therapy can be accomplished. Sometimes the disease is not recognized and diagnosed as a sebaceous cyst or a furunculus. Also, if the sinus is recognized, it is necessary not to underestimate the disease. In several clinical studies a recurrencerate of 15--33% is quoted. Singer published in 1966 a technique of extirpation of the infected preauricular sinus with excellent results. This technique was adopted with addition of the use of the operating microscope. In nine patients with an infected preauricular sinus extirpation in toto was accomplished in a silent period. Under these nine patients were two recurrences after previous inadequate surgery. After a minimal follow-up of 2 years the patients were symptom-free. The quoted technique of extirpation of the infected preauricular sinus in toto seems to be an improvement for the therapeutic armamentarium.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of the infected preauricular sinus. Preauricular sinus is a frequent occurring congenital abnormality (circa 0.25% in the white race), but gives mostly no symptoms. In a certain amount of cases symptoms can arise as recurring purulent secretion or a preauricular abscess. If the disease is recognized an adequate therapy can be accomplished. Sometimes the disease is not recognized and diagnosed as a sebaceous cyst or a furunculus. Also, if the sinus is recognized, it is necessary not to underestimate the disease. In several clinical studies a recurrencerate of 15--33% is quoted. Singer published in 1966 a technique of extirpation of the infected preauricular sinus with excellent results. This technique was adopted with addition of the use of the operating microscope. In nine patients with an infected preauricular sinus extirpation in toto was accomplished in a silent period. Under these nine patients were two recurrences after previous inadequate surgery. After a minimal follow-up of 2 years the patients were symptom-free. The quoted technique of extirpation of the infected preauricular sinus in toto seems to be an improvement for the therapeutic armamentarium.", "PMID": 435171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2588", "title": "Reliability of slow vertex response audiometry in young children with sensorineural hearing loss.", "content": "In order to supplement our previous report on the reliability and validity of slow vertex response (SVR) audiometry, the detectability of the response, the agreement among scorers and test-retest reliability were studied in 6 children aged 2-4 years who have sensorineural hearing loss of 60-75 dB for the test frequency (1 000 Hz). Mean percentage of positive response increased from 20.6 to 62.2% as stimulus intensity was increased from 60 to 80 dB. Such a sharp increase in the detectability of the response at a level of stimulus intensity close to the auditory threshold of the subjects was not observed in normal children. The results indicate that SVR audiometry is more reliable and valid in children with sensorineural hearing loss than in normal children.", "contents": "Reliability of slow vertex response audiometry in young children with sensorineural hearing loss. In order to supplement our previous report on the reliability and validity of slow vertex response (SVR) audiometry, the detectability of the response, the agreement among scorers and test-retest reliability were studied in 6 children aged 2-4 years who have sensorineural hearing loss of 60-75 dB for the test frequency (1 000 Hz). Mean percentage of positive response increased from 20.6 to 62.2% as stimulus intensity was increased from 60 to 80 dB. Such a sharp increase in the detectability of the response at a level of stimulus intensity close to the auditory threshold of the subjects was not observed in normal children. The results indicate that SVR audiometry is more reliable and valid in children with sensorineural hearing loss than in normal children.", "PMID": 435172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2589", "title": "How do you recognize allergy?", "content": "A suggested basic approach to the diagnosis of allergic diseases, which involves the characteristics of allergic diseases themselves, is presented. Using these characteristics as basic guidelines in investigation, not only should the condition be diagnosed but main cause or causes and triggering factors should be demonstrated in individual patients. Investigational procedures ranging from history, and including simple skin tests and more sophisticated immunological investigations, are briefly analyzed and it is stressed that if a really adequate allergic investigation of all patients with suspect allergic disease is carried out in an effort to demonstrate and subsequently control all causes and triggering factors, then development of chronic disease, sometimes intractible to our standard methods of therapy, could well be prevented in many cases.", "contents": "How do you recognize allergy? A suggested basic approach to the diagnosis of allergic diseases, which involves the characteristics of allergic diseases themselves, is presented. Using these characteristics as basic guidelines in investigation, not only should the condition be diagnosed but main cause or causes and triggering factors should be demonstrated in individual patients. Investigational procedures ranging from history, and including simple skin tests and more sophisticated immunological investigations, are briefly analyzed and it is stressed that if a really adequate allergic investigation of all patients with suspect allergic disease is carried out in an effort to demonstrate and subsequently control all causes and triggering factors, then development of chronic disease, sometimes intractible to our standard methods of therapy, could well be prevented in many cases.", "PMID": 435178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2590", "title": "[Auditory fatigue in man. Comparison of recovery at threshold and above threshold].", "content": "Using a 1 000-Hz pure tone, a TTS2 of 20 dB was produced in a group of subjects. Recovery from this TTS was studied at 1 500 Hz and the measurements were extended to 320 min to encompass the course of recovery, The recovery of the temporary impairment of threshold was plotted concurrently with that of the temporary masked threshold shift (TMTS) of the 1 500 Hz tone in the presence of a 700 Hz masking tone. This technique provided an indirect measurement of loudness loss at 10. 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 dB SL. The time required for complete recovery depended upon whether one measured TTS or TMTS; the longest recovery times were, in respect of the masked threshold, at low sensation levels.", "contents": "[Auditory fatigue in man. Comparison of recovery at threshold and above threshold]. Using a 1 000-Hz pure tone, a TTS2 of 20 dB was produced in a group of subjects. Recovery from this TTS was studied at 1 500 Hz and the measurements were extended to 320 min to encompass the course of recovery, The recovery of the temporary impairment of threshold was plotted concurrently with that of the temporary masked threshold shift (TMTS) of the 1 500 Hz tone in the presence of a 700 Hz masking tone. This technique provided an indirect measurement of loudness loss at 10. 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 dB SL. The time required for complete recovery depended upon whether one measured TTS or TMTS; the longest recovery times were, in respect of the masked threshold, at low sensation levels.", "PMID": 435173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2591", "title": "Critical bandwidth in patients with a hearing loss induced by salicylates.", "content": "During a slight temporary salicylate-induced hearing loss, the normal loudness difference between broad-band noise and narrow-band noise was markedly reduced at all levels, except the highest. The critical band, measured at 1 kHz by means of a loudness summation method, appeared to become wider in 9 out of 16 subjects, to a degree roughly proportional to the degree of hearing loss. However, some discrepancies in the data and a rather large intersubject variability of the loudness estimates were present. The localization of the mechanism which forms the basis for the critical band concept is discussed in view of the results.", "contents": "Critical bandwidth in patients with a hearing loss induced by salicylates. During a slight temporary salicylate-induced hearing loss, the normal loudness difference between broad-band noise and narrow-band noise was markedly reduced at all levels, except the highest. The critical band, measured at 1 kHz by means of a loudness summation method, appeared to become wider in 9 out of 16 subjects, to a degree roughly proportional to the degree of hearing loss. However, some discrepancies in the data and a rather large intersubject variability of the loudness estimates were present. The localization of the mechanism which forms the basis for the critical band concept is discussed in view of the results.", "PMID": 435174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2592", "title": "An overall approach to treatment of allergic disease.", "content": "Allergy as a scientific term, and clinical allergy are two different things. Confusion as to what is meant by 'allergy' depends significantly on an illogical omission to name a level of reactivity which pertains to a cell or tissue prior to augmentation of that level by an allergic reaction. Hyper-reactivity is suggested as a term denoting raised non-specific reactivity pertaining to the inherent reactivity of cells, as distinct from excessive reactivity induced by specific antigenic enhancement. Some of the implications of discrimination between these qualities have been mentioned so far as impact on the assessment and treatment of clinically allergic subjects is concerned.", "contents": "An overall approach to treatment of allergic disease. Allergy as a scientific term, and clinical allergy are two different things. Confusion as to what is meant by 'allergy' depends significantly on an illogical omission to name a level of reactivity which pertains to a cell or tissue prior to augmentation of that level by an allergic reaction. Hyper-reactivity is suggested as a term denoting raised non-specific reactivity pertaining to the inherent reactivity of cells, as distinct from excessive reactivity induced by specific antigenic enhancement. Some of the implications of discrimination between these qualities have been mentioned so far as impact on the assessment and treatment of clinically allergic subjects is concerned.", "PMID": 435180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2593", "title": "Hearing results after vestibular neurectomy.", "content": "After a general review of the actual histopathological concept of Meni\u00e8re's disease, a review of the results, as concerns hearing, of the selective section of the vestibular fibers by the suboccipital approach, and of vestibular neurectomy by the middle fossa approach is made. From our personal experience in performing 247 neurectomies from November, 1969 to July, 1976 as treatment for peripheral vertigos of different etiologies, auditory function was followed-up in 78 cases of Meni\u00e8re's disease, with a postoperative control, between 2 and 6 1/2 years. In 51% of these cases the preoperative threshold was preserved, hearing improved in 32%, and deteriorated in 17%. Possible mechanisms by which vestibular neurectomy can favorably influence hearing are considered, with special mention of the neurovegetative theory.", "contents": "Hearing results after vestibular neurectomy. After a general review of the actual histopathological concept of Meni\u00e8re's disease, a review of the results, as concerns hearing, of the selective section of the vestibular fibers by the suboccipital approach, and of vestibular neurectomy by the middle fossa approach is made. From our personal experience in performing 247 neurectomies from November, 1969 to July, 1976 as treatment for peripheral vertigos of different etiologies, auditory function was followed-up in 78 cases of Meni\u00e8re's disease, with a postoperative control, between 2 and 6 1/2 years. In 51% of these cases the preoperative threshold was preserved, hearing improved in 32%, and deteriorated in 17%. Possible mechanisms by which vestibular neurectomy can favorably influence hearing are considered, with special mention of the neurovegetative theory.", "PMID": 435175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2594", "title": "Performance of high frequency impaired listeners with conventional and extended high frequency amplification.", "content": "This study sought to determine if a high-pass hearing aid can provide increased improvement in word recognition and consonant discrimination over that of a conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid in listeners with hearing loss limited to frequencies above 1 000 Hz. Word and consonant discrimination were assessed in quiet and in the presence of 12 talker speech babble for 10 subjects under three listening conditions: (1) unaided; (2) wearing a conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid, and (3) wearing an experimental high-pass instrument. The speech testing materials included: (1) Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6; (2) California Consonant Test, and (3) eight voiceless English consonants. Results suggested that both instruments provided similar benefit in quiet for improving word recognition and resolving consonant errors. For the noise condition, however, the experimental high-pass aid provided a considerable advantage in both word recognition and consonant identification and was particularly sensitive to reducing within- and between-manner voiceless consonant confusions. Furthermore, measurements of real-ear gain revealed that the high-pass aid afforded considerably greater acoustic gain above 4 000 Hz than that shown for the conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid,20", "contents": "Performance of high frequency impaired listeners with conventional and extended high frequency amplification. This study sought to determine if a high-pass hearing aid can provide increased improvement in word recognition and consonant discrimination over that of a conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid in listeners with hearing loss limited to frequencies above 1 000 Hz. Word and consonant discrimination were assessed in quiet and in the presence of 12 talker speech babble for 10 subjects under three listening conditions: (1) unaided; (2) wearing a conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid, and (3) wearing an experimental high-pass instrument. The speech testing materials included: (1) Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6; (2) California Consonant Test, and (3) eight voiceless English consonants. Results suggested that both instruments provided similar benefit in quiet for improving word recognition and resolving consonant errors. For the noise condition, however, the experimental high-pass aid provided a considerable advantage in both word recognition and consonant identification and was particularly sensitive to reducing within- and between-manner voiceless consonant confusions. Furthermore, measurements of real-ear gain revealed that the high-pass aid afforded considerably greater acoustic gain above 4 000 Hz than that shown for the conventional high frequency emphasis hearing aid,20", "PMID": 435176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2595", "title": "Auditory nerve and brain stem volume-conducted potentials evoked by pure-tone pips in the CBA/J laboratory mouse.", "content": "The short latency (less then 10 ms) auditory nerve and brain stem evoked potentials of Jewett were examined in the inbred CBA/J laboratory mouse. Tone pips, at nine frequencies from 4 to 64 kHz, were used to determine auditory nerve evoked potential (P1) thresholds. Maximum sensitivity occurred at 32 kHz, and a second sensitive area was seen at 56 kHz. With the exception of 32 kHz, as stimulus frequencies were increased in octave intervals, the 90 dB P1 amplitude also increased. P1 latency decreased as the stimulus frequency was increased up to 32 kHz, but this trend reversed with further increases of frequency. However, the P1 amplitude-latency function produced a better agreement of latency and frequency with the travelling wave theory for amplitudes less than 1 micro V, while amplitudes from 2 to 8 micro V were independent of frequency. Latency and amplitude input-output functions for responses from the four auditory brain stem loci suggest that auditory information is differentially processed as a function of frequency at each level, This is especially true for the inferior colliculus, which is most sensitive to 8-KHz stimuli.", "contents": "Auditory nerve and brain stem volume-conducted potentials evoked by pure-tone pips in the CBA/J laboratory mouse. The short latency (less then 10 ms) auditory nerve and brain stem evoked potentials of Jewett were examined in the inbred CBA/J laboratory mouse. Tone pips, at nine frequencies from 4 to 64 kHz, were used to determine auditory nerve evoked potential (P1) thresholds. Maximum sensitivity occurred at 32 kHz, and a second sensitive area was seen at 56 kHz. With the exception of 32 kHz, as stimulus frequencies were increased in octave intervals, the 90 dB P1 amplitude also increased. P1 latency decreased as the stimulus frequency was increased up to 32 kHz, but this trend reversed with further increases of frequency. However, the P1 amplitude-latency function produced a better agreement of latency and frequency with the travelling wave theory for amplitudes less than 1 micro V, while amplitudes from 2 to 8 micro V were independent of frequency. Latency and amplitude input-output functions for responses from the four auditory brain stem loci suggest that auditory information is differentially processed as a function of frequency at each level, This is especially true for the inferior colliculus, which is most sensitive to 8-KHz stimuli.", "PMID": 435177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2596", "title": "Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo infection of cattle.", "content": "A survey of normal cattle in the Southern Victorian statistical divisions revealed that microscopic agglutination titres to L. hardjo occur at high frequency and are distributed throughout the cattle population. These titres are difficult to interpret as they may represent recent or old exposure, with or without disease. L. hardjo infection of dairy cattle was studied in 4 herds using the microscopic agglutination and complement-fixation tests. Statistical comparisons of individual titres obtained indicated that the sensitivity of the complement-fixation test was satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, but the test was unable to differentiate between current or past infections.", "contents": "Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo infection of cattle. A survey of normal cattle in the Southern Victorian statistical divisions revealed that microscopic agglutination titres to L. hardjo occur at high frequency and are distributed throughout the cattle population. These titres are difficult to interpret as they may represent recent or old exposure, with or without disease. L. hardjo infection of dairy cattle was studied in 4 herds using the microscopic agglutination and complement-fixation tests. Statistical comparisons of individual titres obtained indicated that the sensitivity of the complement-fixation test was satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, but the test was unable to differentiate between current or past infections.", "PMID": 435201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2597", "title": "Immunity in cattle to Babesia bovis after single infections with parasites of various origin.", "content": "Sixty calves, 3 to 6 months old, were vaccinated once against Babesia bovis in groups of 10, by the following methods: (a) tick infestation; (b) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick-infested animals immediately after infection; (c) inoculation of the parasites used in (b) attenuated by passage through splenectomised calves; (d) inoculation of commercially-available, living, attenuated vaccine; (e) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick-infested animals in (a) one year after infection; (f) inoculation of the parasites used in (e) attenuated by passage. All vaccinated animals were maintained tick-free and were strongly immune to challenge with a heterologous strain of B. bovis approximately 4 years after vaccination. There was no difference in immunogenicity between any of the B. bovis populations.", "contents": "Immunity in cattle to Babesia bovis after single infections with parasites of various origin. Sixty calves, 3 to 6 months old, were vaccinated once against Babesia bovis in groups of 10, by the following methods: (a) tick infestation; (b) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick-infested animals immediately after infection; (c) inoculation of the parasites used in (b) attenuated by passage through splenectomised calves; (d) inoculation of commercially-available, living, attenuated vaccine; (e) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick-infested animals in (a) one year after infection; (f) inoculation of the parasites used in (e) attenuated by passage. All vaccinated animals were maintained tick-free and were strongly immune to challenge with a heterologous strain of B. bovis approximately 4 years after vaccination. There was no difference in immunogenicity between any of the B. bovis populations.", "PMID": 435202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2598", "title": "Salmonella contamination of meat and bone meal.", "content": "The production of meat and bone meal from 8 rendering plants was examined for the presence of salmonellas. Of 164 samples of final product 114 (69.5%) were contaminated with salmonellas. Of 65 samples, collected at various points from the production line 35 (53.8%), and of 95 samples collected from the processing environment 79 (83.1%) were found to be contaminated with salmonellas. A total of 41 serotypes were found with S. havana, S. eimsbuettel, S. ohio and S. singapore being the most frequently isolated. Pre-enrichment of 25g samples in buffered peptone water, followed by enrichment in mannitol selenite cystine broth at 42 degrees C and Muller-Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth at 37 degrees C and plating on Bismuth Sulphite Agar was found to yield 98.5% of the salmonella-positive samples.", "contents": "Salmonella contamination of meat and bone meal. The production of meat and bone meal from 8 rendering plants was examined for the presence of salmonellas. Of 164 samples of final product 114 (69.5%) were contaminated with salmonellas. Of 65 samples, collected at various points from the production line 35 (53.8%), and of 95 samples collected from the processing environment 79 (83.1%) were found to be contaminated with salmonellas. A total of 41 serotypes were found with S. havana, S. eimsbuettel, S. ohio and S. singapore being the most frequently isolated. Pre-enrichment of 25g samples in buffered peptone water, followed by enrichment in mannitol selenite cystine broth at 42 degrees C and Muller-Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth at 37 degrees C and plating on Bismuth Sulphite Agar was found to yield 98.5% of the salmonella-positive samples.", "PMID": 435203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2599", "title": "Observations on Salmonella infections of birds.", "content": "During the period 1961 to 1976, 29 species of Salmonella other than Salmonella pullorum were isolated from 180 accessions of birds examined at the Animal Research Institute, Yeerongpilly. These birds were submitted to the laboratory from flocks with disease or production problems. S. typhimurium was the most frequently isolated serotype being obtained from 63% of accessions. Outbreaks of systemic salmonellosis occurred most frequently in young birds and although pathological changes were most commonly observed in visceral organs they were also seen in eyes, joints and the brain. Diseases other than salmonellosis were identified in many accessions of birds with systemic or enteric salmonella infections.", "contents": "Observations on Salmonella infections of birds. During the period 1961 to 1976, 29 species of Salmonella other than Salmonella pullorum were isolated from 180 accessions of birds examined at the Animal Research Institute, Yeerongpilly. These birds were submitted to the laboratory from flocks with disease or production problems. S. typhimurium was the most frequently isolated serotype being obtained from 63% of accessions. Outbreaks of systemic salmonellosis occurred most frequently in young birds and although pathological changes were most commonly observed in visceral organs they were also seen in eyes, joints and the brain. Diseases other than salmonellosis were identified in many accessions of birds with systemic or enteric salmonella infections.", "PMID": 435204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2600", "title": "Masculinisation of the external genitalia in ewes with clover disease.", "content": "Prolonged exposure of ewes to oestrogenic pasture resulted in partial fusion of the labia of the vulva and hypertrophy of the clitoris. Partial fusion of the labia was also seen in ewes which had grazed oestrogenic pastures on normal commercial properties, and was related to the amount of histological change in the cervix. This lesion may be useful as a screening test for previous exposure to oestrogenic pasture.", "contents": "Masculinisation of the external genitalia in ewes with clover disease. Prolonged exposure of ewes to oestrogenic pasture resulted in partial fusion of the labia of the vulva and hypertrophy of the clitoris. Partial fusion of the labia was also seen in ewes which had grazed oestrogenic pastures on normal commercial properties, and was related to the amount of histological change in the cervix. This lesion may be useful as a screening test for previous exposure to oestrogenic pasture.", "PMID": 435205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2601", "title": "A degrading proteinase test to distinguish benign and virulent ovine isolates of Bacteroides nodosus.", "content": "Bacteroides nodosus was recovered from naturally occurring cases of virulent ovine footrot (VFR) and benign footrot (BFR) using an artificial culture medium which incorporated trypticase, arginine, serine and 5% agar. A degrading proteinase (DP) test was developed which measured the proteinase activity of broth cultures of B. nodosus for a period of time after organism death to assess the stability of the enzyme. The spectrophotometric measurement of the release of dye from a hide powder--azure conjugate by the action of proteinase provided an objective analysis of enzyme activity. The DP test differentiated VFR and BFR isolates and promises to be a useful laboratory method for the diagnosis of benign and virulent footrot in sheep.", "contents": "A degrading proteinase test to distinguish benign and virulent ovine isolates of Bacteroides nodosus. Bacteroides nodosus was recovered from naturally occurring cases of virulent ovine footrot (VFR) and benign footrot (BFR) using an artificial culture medium which incorporated trypticase, arginine, serine and 5% agar. A degrading proteinase (DP) test was developed which measured the proteinase activity of broth cultures of B. nodosus for a period of time after organism death to assess the stability of the enzyme. The spectrophotometric measurement of the release of dye from a hide powder--azure conjugate by the action of proteinase provided an objective analysis of enzyme activity. The DP test differentiated VFR and BFR isolates and promises to be a useful laboratory method for the diagnosis of benign and virulent footrot in sheep.", "PMID": 435206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2602", "title": "Internal fixation of fractures of the third phalanx in three horses.", "content": "The technique of internal fixation of intra-articular fractures of the third phalanx using lag screw interfragmentary compression is described. Three cases are discussed and the successful treatment of infection and osteomyelitis described in one of them. Despite this potential complication internal fixation offers a better prognosis and also a more rapid return to work than non-operative treatments.", "contents": "Internal fixation of fractures of the third phalanx in three horses. The technique of internal fixation of intra-articular fractures of the third phalanx using lag screw interfragmentary compression is described. Three cases are discussed and the successful treatment of infection and osteomyelitis described in one of them. Despite this potential complication internal fixation offers a better prognosis and also a more rapid return to work than non-operative treatments.", "PMID": 435207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2603", "title": "The correction of uterine torsion in a mare by caesarean section.", "content": "A 9-year-old mare exhibiting signs of colic late in pregnancy was presented. Uterine torsion was diagnosed and corrected by caesarean section. A live foal was delivered and the mare survived the surgical interference.", "contents": "The correction of uterine torsion in a mare by caesarean section. A 9-year-old mare exhibiting signs of colic late in pregnancy was presented. Uterine torsion was diagnosed and corrected by caesarean section. A live foal was delivered and the mare survived the surgical interference.", "PMID": 435208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2604", "title": "Response of cattle to inoculation with atypical mycobacteria isolated from soil.", "content": "Nine strains of atypical mycobacteria and a strain of the rhodochrous taxon, originally isolated from soil samples collected on the subcoastal plains of the Northern Territory, were inoculated into cattle. Each strain was injected subcutaneously into one animal and into a mesenteric lymph node of another. At 4 and 10 weeks after inoculation, the cattle were tuberculin tested with bovine PPD tuberculin, avian PPD tuberculin and the appropriate homologous PPD tuberculin. Six strains induced a significant level of sensitivity to bovine PPD at the 4-week test, but only one animal gave a similar response at the 10-week test. In general, the level of sensitivity to all tuberculins declined between the 4-week and 10-week tests. At both tests the response to avian PPD was equal to, or exceeded, that to bovine PPD. The inoculation of each of the 10 strains resulted in the production of tuberculous granulomas at the subcutaneous sites and similar lesions were produced at the mesenteric lymph node site in response to 2 strains. Mycobacteria were re-isolated from 11 cattle and represented 7 strains. The significance of the soil as a reservoir of atypical mycobacteria and other organisms capable of inducing sensitivity to bovine PPD is discussed.", "contents": "Response of cattle to inoculation with atypical mycobacteria isolated from soil. Nine strains of atypical mycobacteria and a strain of the rhodochrous taxon, originally isolated from soil samples collected on the subcoastal plains of the Northern Territory, were inoculated into cattle. Each strain was injected subcutaneously into one animal and into a mesenteric lymph node of another. At 4 and 10 weeks after inoculation, the cattle were tuberculin tested with bovine PPD tuberculin, avian PPD tuberculin and the appropriate homologous PPD tuberculin. Six strains induced a significant level of sensitivity to bovine PPD at the 4-week test, but only one animal gave a similar response at the 10-week test. In general, the level of sensitivity to all tuberculins declined between the 4-week and 10-week tests. At both tests the response to avian PPD was equal to, or exceeded, that to bovine PPD. The inoculation of each of the 10 strains resulted in the production of tuberculous granulomas at the subcutaneous sites and similar lesions were produced at the mesenteric lymph node site in response to 2 strains. Mycobacteria were re-isolated from 11 cattle and represented 7 strains. The significance of the soil as a reservoir of atypical mycobacteria and other organisms capable of inducing sensitivity to bovine PPD is discussed.", "PMID": 435217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2605", "title": "The Ocean-Hill Brownsville and Cambodian-Kent State crises: a biobehavioral approach to human sociobiology.", "content": "The author traces the origin of his thinking on a biobehavioral systems approach to human sociobiology as it evolved from his observations and analyses of on-the-ground human behavior in local, Ocean-Hill Brownsville, and nationwide, Cambodia-Kent State, political crises, as well as from his naturalistic observations of face-to-face behavior in group psychotherapy. He argues that the resulting sociobiological paradigm--arrived at independently by several other workers--is a fruitful alternative to sociobiological models derived from population biology and genetics.", "contents": "The Ocean-Hill Brownsville and Cambodian-Kent State crises: a biobehavioral approach to human sociobiology. The author traces the origin of his thinking on a biobehavioral systems approach to human sociobiology as it evolved from his observations and analyses of on-the-ground human behavior in local, Ocean-Hill Brownsville, and nationwide, Cambodia-Kent State, political crises, as well as from his naturalistic observations of face-to-face behavior in group psychotherapy. He argues that the resulting sociobiological paradigm--arrived at independently by several other workers--is a fruitful alternative to sociobiological models derived from population biology and genetics.", "PMID": 435218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2606", "title": "Responses of vessel walls to chronically applied electrical stimuli.", "content": "8 mm long sections of common carotid arteries of conscious, freely moving rabbits were electrically stimulated with DC-impulses by chronically implanted gold-electrodes daily for 1/2 h or two times 1/2 h per day for 4--6 weeks. The electrodes were arranged in such a way that the wall was stimulated transmurally, In the initial phase the tension of the vessel wall increased. After 1/2 h of stimulation the artery wall relaxed at the stimulated section. Repetition of stimuli led to smooth muscle cell proliferation within the stimulated region. The smooth muscle cells formed a cushion protruding into the lumen of the artery mainly at the anodic site of the stimulation-arrangement. The proliferating cells were smaller than those of the underlying tunica media. They were identified as smooth muscle cells by electron-microscopy, contained relatively more lysosomes and endoplasmic reticulum than the original media-cells and produced collagen-fibrils and elastic fibrils as an extracellular matrix material. Below very thick cushions of smooth muscle cells necrosis developed. Animals which were additionally fed with 2% cholesterol in normal food developed typical atheromatous plaques at the site of the anodic stimuli.", "contents": "Responses of vessel walls to chronically applied electrical stimuli. 8 mm long sections of common carotid arteries of conscious, freely moving rabbits were electrically stimulated with DC-impulses by chronically implanted gold-electrodes daily for 1/2 h or two times 1/2 h per day for 4--6 weeks. The electrodes were arranged in such a way that the wall was stimulated transmurally, In the initial phase the tension of the vessel wall increased. After 1/2 h of stimulation the artery wall relaxed at the stimulated section. Repetition of stimuli led to smooth muscle cell proliferation within the stimulated region. The smooth muscle cells formed a cushion protruding into the lumen of the artery mainly at the anodic site of the stimulation-arrangement. The proliferating cells were smaller than those of the underlying tunica media. They were identified as smooth muscle cells by electron-microscopy, contained relatively more lysosomes and endoplasmic reticulum than the original media-cells and produced collagen-fibrils and elastic fibrils as an extracellular matrix material. Below very thick cushions of smooth muscle cells necrosis developed. Animals which were additionally fed with 2% cholesterol in normal food developed typical atheromatous plaques at the site of the anodic stimuli.", "PMID": 435220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2607", "title": "Experimental coronary artery occlusion. I. Measurement of infarct size.", "content": "We studied the size of infarcts in 25 dogs 48 hrs after proximal occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery. In one group of animals infarct size was measured by histologic criteria, in another group the infarct was measured macrohistochemically using p-NBT and malate to incubate unfixed slices of myocardium. In both groups infarct size was expressed as percentage of the area of perfusion of the occluded artery. Infarct size was 72% of the area-at-risk in the group studied by histology and 74.5% in the macrohistochemical group. The satisfactory agreement of both methods favors the p-NBT technique because of its ease and speed. It is suggested that the expression of infarct size as percentage of the perfusion area is a good definition and should be used in experiments designed to manipulate infarct size. In this way differences in the size of occluded arteries and their respective perfusion areas have no or only a negligible influence on infarct size.", "contents": "Experimental coronary artery occlusion. I. Measurement of infarct size. We studied the size of infarcts in 25 dogs 48 hrs after proximal occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery. In one group of animals infarct size was measured by histologic criteria, in another group the infarct was measured macrohistochemically using p-NBT and malate to incubate unfixed slices of myocardium. In both groups infarct size was expressed as percentage of the area of perfusion of the occluded artery. Infarct size was 72% of the area-at-risk in the group studied by histology and 74.5% in the macrohistochemical group. The satisfactory agreement of both methods favors the p-NBT technique because of its ease and speed. It is suggested that the expression of infarct size as percentage of the perfusion area is a good definition and should be used in experiments designed to manipulate infarct size. In this way differences in the size of occluded arteries and their respective perfusion areas have no or only a negligible influence on infarct size.", "PMID": 435223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2608", "title": "The syndrome of absent pulmonary valve and ventricular septal defect--anatomical features and embryological implications.", "content": "Four cases of absent pulmonary valve in combination with ventricular septal defect are reported. In this syndrome hypo- and dysplasia of the pulmonary valve is constantly associated with a big ventricular septal defect, formation of a huge pulmonary artery aneurysm and absence of the ductus arteriosus. Presence or absence of a right ventricular outflow tract obstruction is the criteria for classification into two forms. Absence of the pulmonary valve, right ventricular outflow tract obstruction and a malalignment-type ventricular septal defect produced by a conotruncal malseptation process represent the primary complex of malformations. Consecutive intrauterine cardiac failure is most probably prevented by prenatal closure of the ductus arteriosus. Pulmonary artery aneurysm and also dilatation of the right ventricular outflow tract as well as a whole lot of other coexisting deformities can be explained by a cascade of hemodynamical sequelae started by this ductus closure in utero. An embryological scheme explaining the genesis of this syndrome is derived from a morphological analysis of the constituting incoherent-appearing anatomical features.", "contents": "The syndrome of absent pulmonary valve and ventricular septal defect--anatomical features and embryological implications. Four cases of absent pulmonary valve in combination with ventricular septal defect are reported. In this syndrome hypo- and dysplasia of the pulmonary valve is constantly associated with a big ventricular septal defect, formation of a huge pulmonary artery aneurysm and absence of the ductus arteriosus. Presence or absence of a right ventricular outflow tract obstruction is the criteria for classification into two forms. Absence of the pulmonary valve, right ventricular outflow tract obstruction and a malalignment-type ventricular septal defect produced by a conotruncal malseptation process represent the primary complex of malformations. Consecutive intrauterine cardiac failure is most probably prevented by prenatal closure of the ductus arteriosus. Pulmonary artery aneurysm and also dilatation of the right ventricular outflow tract as well as a whole lot of other coexisting deformities can be explained by a cascade of hemodynamical sequelae started by this ductus closure in utero. An embryological scheme explaining the genesis of this syndrome is derived from a morphological analysis of the constituting incoherent-appearing anatomical features.", "PMID": 435224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2609", "title": "Anomalous reaction of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan with thiol compounds.", "content": "The kinetics of reaction of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan with thiol groups at pH values above 5 cannot be accounted for solely on the basis of formation of a single product, the 4-thio derivative. Spectroscopic observations indicate that, in addition to the 4-thio derivative, at least two other products are formed. One of these, referred to as P1, is most likely a reversible complex of thiol compound and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan of the Meisenheimer type. The other product, P2, which forms primarily when thiol compound is in a large excess, does not appear to result from direct reaction of thiol group and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan, but may be a reaction of product P1 and thiol compound. The coloured product, P2, will react further with proteins, such as bovine serum albumin and Escherichia coli RNA polymerase. This reaction irreversibly destroys the catalytic activity of RNA polymerase. The implications of these observations for utilization of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan as a protein-modifying agent are discussed.", "contents": "Anomalous reaction of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan with thiol compounds. The kinetics of reaction of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan with thiol groups at pH values above 5 cannot be accounted for solely on the basis of formation of a single product, the 4-thio derivative. Spectroscopic observations indicate that, in addition to the 4-thio derivative, at least two other products are formed. One of these, referred to as P1, is most likely a reversible complex of thiol compound and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan of the Meisenheimer type. The other product, P2, which forms primarily when thiol compound is in a large excess, does not appear to result from direct reaction of thiol group and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan, but may be a reaction of product P1 and thiol compound. The coloured product, P2, will react further with proteins, such as bovine serum albumin and Escherichia coli RNA polymerase. This reaction irreversibly destroys the catalytic activity of RNA polymerase. The implications of these observations for utilization of 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan as a protein-modifying agent are discussed.", "PMID": 435240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2610", "title": "Properties of the iron--sulphur proteins of the benzene dioxygenase system from Pseudomonas putida.", "content": "A purification procedure was developed to stabilize the iron-sulphur proteins of the benzene dioxygenase system from Pseudomonas putida. The intermediate electron-carrying protein has a mol. wt. of 12300 and possesses one (2Fe--2S) cluster, whereas the terminal dioxygenase has a mol.wt. of 215300 and possesses two (2Fe--2S) clusters. The order and stoicheiometry of electron transfer and of the whole system are described.", "contents": "Properties of the iron--sulphur proteins of the benzene dioxygenase system from Pseudomonas putida. A purification procedure was developed to stabilize the iron-sulphur proteins of the benzene dioxygenase system from Pseudomonas putida. The intermediate electron-carrying protein has a mol. wt. of 12300 and possesses one (2Fe--2S) cluster, whereas the terminal dioxygenase has a mol.wt. of 215300 and possesses two (2Fe--2S) clusters. The order and stoicheiometry of electron transfer and of the whole system are described.", "PMID": 435241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2611", "title": "\"Affinity\" chromatography of steroid-transforming enzymes with a non-steroidal ligand.", "content": "The chromatographic behaviour of an avian oestradiol-17 beta dehydrogenase, the 3(17) beta-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas testosteroni and cortisone reductase from Streptomyces dehydrogenans was studied on columns of p-(phenoxypropoxy)aniline attached to CNBr-activated Sepharose. The ligand was effective in adsorbing the oestradiol dehydrogenase from a partially purified extract of chicken liver, and the cortisone reductase was perferentially retained when mixtures of the three dehydrogenases were applied to columns in 10mM-buffer. Under these conditions the 3(17)beta-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase was eluted in the front, but was adsorbed in the presence of 3 M-KCl. beta-N-Acetylglucosaminidase present in the liver preparation was not retained by the ligand, whereas lactate dehydrogenase from rabbit muscle was adsorbed in a manner similar to the retention pattern found on affinity chromatography with 2',5'-ADP--Sepharose. The mean overall purification of the oestradiol dehydrogenase was 13-fold, with a mean recovery of 53%. p-(Phenoxypropoxy)aniline offers promise for the purification of steroid-transforming enzymes where elution with substrate or cofactor is not wanted. It is also suggested that the ligand may be of service in the purification of receptors of hormonal steroids.", "contents": "\"Affinity\" chromatography of steroid-transforming enzymes with a non-steroidal ligand. The chromatographic behaviour of an avian oestradiol-17 beta dehydrogenase, the 3(17) beta-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas testosteroni and cortisone reductase from Streptomyces dehydrogenans was studied on columns of p-(phenoxypropoxy)aniline attached to CNBr-activated Sepharose. The ligand was effective in adsorbing the oestradiol dehydrogenase from a partially purified extract of chicken liver, and the cortisone reductase was perferentially retained when mixtures of the three dehydrogenases were applied to columns in 10mM-buffer. Under these conditions the 3(17)beta-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase was eluted in the front, but was adsorbed in the presence of 3 M-KCl. beta-N-Acetylglucosaminidase present in the liver preparation was not retained by the ligand, whereas lactate dehydrogenase from rabbit muscle was adsorbed in a manner similar to the retention pattern found on affinity chromatography with 2',5'-ADP--Sepharose. The mean overall purification of the oestradiol dehydrogenase was 13-fold, with a mean recovery of 53%. p-(Phenoxypropoxy)aniline offers promise for the purification of steroid-transforming enzymes where elution with substrate or cofactor is not wanted. It is also suggested that the ligand may be of service in the purification of receptors of hormonal steroids.", "PMID": 435242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2612", "title": "The binding and catalytic activities of forms of ligandin after modification of its thiol groups.", "content": "Ligandin (glutathione S-transferase B, EC 2.5.1.18)was treated with p-mercuribenzoate, N-(4-dimethylamino-3,5-dinitrophenyl)-maleimide, 5,5,-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid), N-ethylmaleimide, iodoacetamide or iodoacetate. Although performic acid oxidation revealed the presence of four cysteines, p-mercuribenzoate and N-(4-dimethylamino-3,5-dinitrophenyl)maleimide, the most effective of the reagents studied, reacted with only three residues. N-Ethylmaleimide and 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) each reacted with two cysteines: iodoacetamide reacted with only one cysteine and iodoacetate was essentially unreactive. Modification of three thiol groups decreased both the enzymic and binding activities of ligandin although the number of binding sites was unaffected. Modification of only one or two of the thiol groups had little effect on the ligandin activities. It therefore appears that there is a thiol group in the common hydrophobic-ligand- and substrate-binding site of ligandin. Ligandin was separated into two fractions on CM-cellulose. Both fractions gave the same results with p-mercuribenzoate and iodoacetamide.", "contents": "The binding and catalytic activities of forms of ligandin after modification of its thiol groups. Ligandin (glutathione S-transferase B, EC 2.5.1.18)was treated with p-mercuribenzoate, N-(4-dimethylamino-3,5-dinitrophenyl)-maleimide, 5,5,-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid), N-ethylmaleimide, iodoacetamide or iodoacetate. Although performic acid oxidation revealed the presence of four cysteines, p-mercuribenzoate and N-(4-dimethylamino-3,5-dinitrophenyl)maleimide, the most effective of the reagents studied, reacted with only three residues. N-Ethylmaleimide and 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) each reacted with two cysteines: iodoacetamide reacted with only one cysteine and iodoacetate was essentially unreactive. Modification of three thiol groups decreased both the enzymic and binding activities of ligandin although the number of binding sites was unaffected. Modification of only one or two of the thiol groups had little effect on the ligandin activities. It therefore appears that there is a thiol group in the common hydrophobic-ligand- and substrate-binding site of ligandin. Ligandin was separated into two fractions on CM-cellulose. Both fractions gave the same results with p-mercuribenzoate and iodoacetamide.", "PMID": 435243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2613", "title": "Simple efficient methods for the isolation of malate dehydrogenase from thermophilic and mesophilic bacteria.", "content": "Malate dehydrogenase from a number of bacteria drawn from several genera and representing the mesophilic, moderately thermophilic and extremely thermophilic classes was isolated by procedures which involve only a small number of steps (in most cases only two), of which the key one is affinity chromatography on 5'-AMP--Sepharose and/or on NAD+--hexane--agarose. Electrophoretic analysis of the native enzymes in polyacrylamide gel and of the denaturated enzymes in sodium dodecyl sulphate/polyacrylamide gel revealed no significant protein impurity in the purified preparations. The yields ranged from about 40% to over 80%. The malate dehydrogenases from the extreme thermophiles and from some of the moderate thermophiles are appreciably less efficient catalytically than their mesophilic homologues.", "contents": "Simple efficient methods for the isolation of malate dehydrogenase from thermophilic and mesophilic bacteria. Malate dehydrogenase from a number of bacteria drawn from several genera and representing the mesophilic, moderately thermophilic and extremely thermophilic classes was isolated by procedures which involve only a small number of steps (in most cases only two), of which the key one is affinity chromatography on 5'-AMP--Sepharose and/or on NAD+--hexane--agarose. Electrophoretic analysis of the native enzymes in polyacrylamide gel and of the denaturated enzymes in sodium dodecyl sulphate/polyacrylamide gel revealed no significant protein impurity in the purified preparations. The yields ranged from about 40% to over 80%. The malate dehydrogenases from the extreme thermophiles and from some of the moderate thermophiles are appreciably less efficient catalytically than their mesophilic homologues.", "PMID": 435244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2614", "title": "Triethyltin binding to cat haemoglobin. Evidence for two chemically distinct sites and a role for both histidine and cysteine residues.", "content": "Triethyltin binding to cat haemoglobin was measured after pretreatment of the protein with diethyl pyrocarbonate at pH 6.0,iodoacetamide or phenylmercuric acetate or by photo-oxidation in the presence of Methylene Blue. The pentaco-ordinate nature of the binding of triethyltin to cat haemoglobin is confirmed by the inability of intramolecularly pentaco-ordinate tin compounds to compete. Consideration of the symmetry of the haemoglobin molecule in the light of the above results suggests that a unique arrangement of histidine and cysteine residues is required for the binding of triethyltin. The effects of treatment with diethyl pyrocarbonate of other preparations which bind triethyltin (rat liver supernatant, a fraction from rat liver mitochondria and rat brain myelin) were determined and shown to be complex.", "contents": "Triethyltin binding to cat haemoglobin. Evidence for two chemically distinct sites and a role for both histidine and cysteine residues. Triethyltin binding to cat haemoglobin was measured after pretreatment of the protein with diethyl pyrocarbonate at pH 6.0,iodoacetamide or phenylmercuric acetate or by photo-oxidation in the presence of Methylene Blue. The pentaco-ordinate nature of the binding of triethyltin to cat haemoglobin is confirmed by the inability of intramolecularly pentaco-ordinate tin compounds to compete. Consideration of the symmetry of the haemoglobin molecule in the light of the above results suggests that a unique arrangement of histidine and cysteine residues is required for the binding of triethyltin. The effects of treatment with diethyl pyrocarbonate of other preparations which bind triethyltin (rat liver supernatant, a fraction from rat liver mitochondria and rat brain myelin) were determined and shown to be complex.", "PMID": 435245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2615", "title": "Purification and properties of glutathione peroxidase from human placenta.", "content": "Glutathione peroxidase (glutathione--H2O2 oxidoreductase; EC 1.11.1.9) was purified to homogeneity from human placenta by using (NH4)2SO4 precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, Sephadex gel filtration and preparative polyacrylamide-disc-gel electrophoresis. Glutathione peroxidase from human placenta is a tetramer, having 4g-atoms of selenium/mol of protein. The molecular weight of the enzyme is about 85000 with a subunit size of about 22,000. Kinetic properties of the enzyme are described. On incubation with cyanide, glutathione peroxidase is completely and irreversibly inactivated and selenium is released as a low-molecular-weight fragment. Reduced glutathione, beta-mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol protect the enzyme from inactivation by cyanide and the release of selenium. Properties of human placental glutathione peroxidase are similar to those of isoenzyme A reported earlier by us from human erythrocytes. The presence of isoenzyme, B, reported earlier by us in human erythrocytes, was not detected in placenta. Also selenium-independent glutathione peroxidase (isoenzyme II), which is specific for cumene hydroperoxide, was not present in human placenta.", "contents": "Purification and properties of glutathione peroxidase from human placenta. Glutathione peroxidase (glutathione--H2O2 oxidoreductase; EC 1.11.1.9) was purified to homogeneity from human placenta by using (NH4)2SO4 precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, Sephadex gel filtration and preparative polyacrylamide-disc-gel electrophoresis. Glutathione peroxidase from human placenta is a tetramer, having 4g-atoms of selenium/mol of protein. The molecular weight of the enzyme is about 85000 with a subunit size of about 22,000. Kinetic properties of the enzyme are described. On incubation with cyanide, glutathione peroxidase is completely and irreversibly inactivated and selenium is released as a low-molecular-weight fragment. Reduced glutathione, beta-mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol protect the enzyme from inactivation by cyanide and the release of selenium. Properties of human placental glutathione peroxidase are similar to those of isoenzyme A reported earlier by us from human erythrocytes. The presence of isoenzyme, B, reported earlier by us in human erythrocytes, was not detected in placenta. Also selenium-independent glutathione peroxidase (isoenzyme II), which is specific for cumene hydroperoxide, was not present in human placenta.", "PMID": 435246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2616", "title": "A four-straight-line model for the proteinase-binding characteristics of human blood serum.", "content": "Kinetic evaluation of the capacity of human blood serum to form complexes with bovine trypsin generated partition profiles that may be approximated by a series of four intersecting straight lines. Such profiles are suggested to reflect the binding of trypsin to alpha 2-macroglobulin in a kinetically preferred mode (alpha-sites), followed by a subsidiary mode (beta-sites) and finally to alpha 1-antitrypsin. The form of the profile, in addition to revealing a hitherto unreported proteinase-binding capability of alpha 2-macroglobulin (beta-sites), also indicates that saturation of alpha-sites corresponds to a molar binding ratio of alpha 2-macroglobulin/trypsin of 1:2. Finally the profile provides, for certain pathological states, a clinically valuable characteristic.", "contents": "A four-straight-line model for the proteinase-binding characteristics of human blood serum. Kinetic evaluation of the capacity of human blood serum to form complexes with bovine trypsin generated partition profiles that may be approximated by a series of four intersecting straight lines. Such profiles are suggested to reflect the binding of trypsin to alpha 2-macroglobulin in a kinetically preferred mode (alpha-sites), followed by a subsidiary mode (beta-sites) and finally to alpha 1-antitrypsin. The form of the profile, in addition to revealing a hitherto unreported proteinase-binding capability of alpha 2-macroglobulin (beta-sites), also indicates that saturation of alpha-sites corresponds to a molar binding ratio of alpha 2-macroglobulin/trypsin of 1:2. Finally the profile provides, for certain pathological states, a clinically valuable characteristic.", "PMID": 435247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2617", "title": "Immunoaffinity chromatography as a means of purifying legumin from Pisum (pea) seeds.", "content": "The potential of immunoaffinity chromatography as a means of purifying legumin from a wide range of Pisum (pea) types was assessed. The method required small amounts of highly purified legumin from a single Pisum type, and this was obtained by salting out with (NH4)2SO4 followed by zonal isoelectric precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose and sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation. Some physiocochemical properties of purified legumin were determined, a number of which (Strokes radius, subunit molecular weights, subunit N-terminal residues and subunit molar ratios) have not previously been reported for Pisum legumin. Examination of Pisum legumin by two-dimensional gel isoelectric focusing/electrophoresis indicated the existence of extensive subunit heterogeneity, and polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate showed apparent variation in the nature of this heterogeneity from one Pisum variety to another. Despite this variation, immunoaffinity chromatography on immobilized anti-legumin (which was prepared by affinity chromatography on the immubolized purified legumin from the single Pisum type) was shown to be a generally applicable method for the purification of undegraded legumin from a range of pisum types, including two primate lines.", "contents": "Immunoaffinity chromatography as a means of purifying legumin from Pisum (pea) seeds. The potential of immunoaffinity chromatography as a means of purifying legumin from a wide range of Pisum (pea) types was assessed. The method required small amounts of highly purified legumin from a single Pisum type, and this was obtained by salting out with (NH4)2SO4 followed by zonal isoelectric precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose and sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation. Some physiocochemical properties of purified legumin were determined, a number of which (Strokes radius, subunit molecular weights, subunit N-terminal residues and subunit molar ratios) have not previously been reported for Pisum legumin. Examination of Pisum legumin by two-dimensional gel isoelectric focusing/electrophoresis indicated the existence of extensive subunit heterogeneity, and polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate showed apparent variation in the nature of this heterogeneity from one Pisum variety to another. Despite this variation, immunoaffinity chromatography on immobilized anti-legumin (which was prepared by affinity chromatography on the immubolized purified legumin from the single Pisum type) was shown to be a generally applicable method for the purification of undegraded legumin from a range of pisum types, including two primate lines.", "PMID": 435248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2618", "title": "Troponin C-like proteins (calmodulins) from mammalian smooth muscle and other tissues.", "content": "1. An acidic protein with properties similar to those of troponin C from rabbit skeletal muscle has been shown to be present in bovine and rabbit smooth muscles, chicken gizzard and rabbit liver, kidney and lung. 2. A simple new method involving the use of organic solvents is described for the purification of the troponin C-like proteins from various tissues. 3. The troponin C-like proteins can be distinguished from rabbit skeletal-muscle toponin C by their electrophoretic behaviour on polyacrylamide gels at pH 8.3 in the presence and absence of Ca2+. The troponin C-like proteins have been shown to form complexes with rabbit skeletal-muscle troponin I that migrate on electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels. 4. Behaviour on electrophoresis, amino acid analysis and the patterns of CNBr digests on polyacrylamide gels indicate that the troponin C-like proteins from bovine uterus and aorta, rabbit uterus, and liver and chicken gizzard are very similar to, if not identical with, bovine brain modulator protein. 5. With bovine cardiac muscle the organic-solvent method yields a preparation consisting of roughly similar amounts of troponin C and troponin C-like protein. 6. By the isotope-dilution technique, troponin C-like protein has been shown to represent 0.42% of the total protein in rabbit uterus. 7. In homogenates of smooth muscle, rabbit lung, kidney and brain, the troponin C-like proteins form a complex with other protein (or proteins) that requires Ca2+ for its formation and that is not dissociated in 9M-urea.", "contents": "Troponin C-like proteins (calmodulins) from mammalian smooth muscle and other tissues. 1. An acidic protein with properties similar to those of troponin C from rabbit skeletal muscle has been shown to be present in bovine and rabbit smooth muscles, chicken gizzard and rabbit liver, kidney and lung. 2. A simple new method involving the use of organic solvents is described for the purification of the troponin C-like proteins from various tissues. 3. The troponin C-like proteins can be distinguished from rabbit skeletal-muscle toponin C by their electrophoretic behaviour on polyacrylamide gels at pH 8.3 in the presence and absence of Ca2+. The troponin C-like proteins have been shown to form complexes with rabbit skeletal-muscle troponin I that migrate on electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels. 4. Behaviour on electrophoresis, amino acid analysis and the patterns of CNBr digests on polyacrylamide gels indicate that the troponin C-like proteins from bovine uterus and aorta, rabbit uterus, and liver and chicken gizzard are very similar to, if not identical with, bovine brain modulator protein. 5. With bovine cardiac muscle the organic-solvent method yields a preparation consisting of roughly similar amounts of troponin C and troponin C-like protein. 6. By the isotope-dilution technique, troponin C-like protein has been shown to represent 0.42% of the total protein in rabbit uterus. 7. In homogenates of smooth muscle, rabbit lung, kidney and brain, the troponin C-like proteins form a complex with other protein (or proteins) that requires Ca2+ for its formation and that is not dissociated in 9M-urea.", "PMID": 435249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2619", "title": "A necessary modification to the preparation of papain from any high-quality latex of Carica papaya and evidence for the structural integrity of the enzyme produced by traditional methods.", "content": "A method of preparation of papain (EC 3.4.22.2) from relatively soluble types of latex of Carica papaya, including spray-dried latex produced by a controlled and relatively mild process, was devised. Spray-dried latex dissolves easily in water up to 350mg/ml at 22 degrees C, which corresponds to approx. 230mg of protein/ml. When the usual method of preparation of crystalline papain contaminated only by its oxidation products, developed by Kimmel & Smith [J. Biol. Chem. (1954) 207, 515-531], is applied to spray-dried latex, the result is a preparation of papain heavily contaminated by chymopapains A and B (EC 3.4.22.6), and to a lesser extent by papaya peptidase A. This applies also to other types of papaya-latex currently commercially available, which, though less soluble than spray-dried latex, are more soluble than the types of latex available when the method of Kimmel & Smith (1954) was developed. This contamination is avoided by adjusting the concentration of the initial latex extract to 65mg of protein/ml (or less) before salt fractionation. For spray-dried latex this corresponds to 100mg of latex/ml. Papain isolated from spray-dried latex was characterized by using 2,2'-dipyridyl disulphide and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan as thiol-specific reactivity probes and alpha-N-benzoyl-l-arginine ethyl ester as substrate. Papain isolated from this source appears to have the same catalytic-centre characteristics as papain isolated previously from latex produced by harsher methods. The catalysis of the hydrolysis of alpha-N-benzoyl-l-arginine ethyl ester by the mixture of thiol proteinases extracted from spray-dried latex by application of the method of Kimmel & Smith (1954) appears to obey Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The presence of the other enzymes results in an increase in the value of K(m) and a decrease in the catalytic-centre activity (k(cat.)) relative to the values for the catalysis by papain.", "contents": "A necessary modification to the preparation of papain from any high-quality latex of Carica papaya and evidence for the structural integrity of the enzyme produced by traditional methods. A method of preparation of papain (EC 3.4.22.2) from relatively soluble types of latex of Carica papaya, including spray-dried latex produced by a controlled and relatively mild process, was devised. Spray-dried latex dissolves easily in water up to 350mg/ml at 22 degrees C, which corresponds to approx. 230mg of protein/ml. When the usual method of preparation of crystalline papain contaminated only by its oxidation products, developed by Kimmel & Smith [J. Biol. Chem. (1954) 207, 515-531], is applied to spray-dried latex, the result is a preparation of papain heavily contaminated by chymopapains A and B (EC 3.4.22.6), and to a lesser extent by papaya peptidase A. This applies also to other types of papaya-latex currently commercially available, which, though less soluble than spray-dried latex, are more soluble than the types of latex available when the method of Kimmel & Smith (1954) was developed. This contamination is avoided by adjusting the concentration of the initial latex extract to 65mg of protein/ml (or less) before salt fractionation. For spray-dried latex this corresponds to 100mg of latex/ml. Papain isolated from spray-dried latex was characterized by using 2,2'-dipyridyl disulphide and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan as thiol-specific reactivity probes and alpha-N-benzoyl-l-arginine ethyl ester as substrate. Papain isolated from this source appears to have the same catalytic-centre characteristics as papain isolated previously from latex produced by harsher methods. The catalysis of the hydrolysis of alpha-N-benzoyl-l-arginine ethyl ester by the mixture of thiol proteinases extracted from spray-dried latex by application of the method of Kimmel & Smith (1954) appears to obey Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The presence of the other enzymes results in an increase in the value of K(m) and a decrease in the catalytic-centre activity (k(cat.)) relative to the values for the catalysis by papain.", "PMID": 435250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2620", "title": "Rapid aging of neurotoxic esterase after inhibition by di-isopropyl phosphorofluoridate.", "content": "1. It was proposed [Johnson (1974) J. Neurochem.23, 785-789] that an essential step in the genesis of delayed neuropathy caused by some organophosphorus esters was aging of phosphorylated neurotoxic esterase, involving generation of a charged monosubstituted phosphoric acid residue on the protein. 2. Neurotoxic esterase of hen brain was inhibited with di-isopropyl phosphorofluoridate either unlabelled or mixed-labelled with (3)H and (32)P. 3. Reactivation of inhibited enzyme by KF was possible only immediately after a brief inhibition:aging at pH8.0 and 37 degrees C occurred with a half-life of about 2-4min. 4. When the radiolabelled enzyme was studied no loss of label was observed during the expected aging period, but a change in the nature of the bound radioisotopes occurred (half-life=3.25min). 5. Alkaline hydrolysis of labelled enzyme liberated di-isopropyl phosphate at early times after labelling, but increasing amounts of monoisopropyl phosphate plus a volatile tritiated compound (possibly propan-2-ol) at later times. 6. Treatment of labelled enzyme with KF released di-isopropyl phosphate and caused reactivation of enzyme to similar degrees. It is concluded that the chemical change from di-isopropyl phosphoryl-enzyme to mono-isopropyl phosphoryl-enzyme and the loss of reactivatibility are related. 7. The rate of aging is similar at pH5.2, 6.5 and 8. Aging is unaffected by addition of reduced glutathione and imidazole at pH5.2 or 8, and none of the transferred (3)H is trapped by these reagents. The mechanism of aging must be different from the better-known dealkylation aging of the cholinesterases.", "contents": "Rapid aging of neurotoxic esterase after inhibition by di-isopropyl phosphorofluoridate. 1. It was proposed [Johnson (1974) J. Neurochem.23, 785-789] that an essential step in the genesis of delayed neuropathy caused by some organophosphorus esters was aging of phosphorylated neurotoxic esterase, involving generation of a charged monosubstituted phosphoric acid residue on the protein. 2. Neurotoxic esterase of hen brain was inhibited with di-isopropyl phosphorofluoridate either unlabelled or mixed-labelled with (3)H and (32)P. 3. Reactivation of inhibited enzyme by KF was possible only immediately after a brief inhibition:aging at pH8.0 and 37 degrees C occurred with a half-life of about 2-4min. 4. When the radiolabelled enzyme was studied no loss of label was observed during the expected aging period, but a change in the nature of the bound radioisotopes occurred (half-life=3.25min). 5. Alkaline hydrolysis of labelled enzyme liberated di-isopropyl phosphate at early times after labelling, but increasing amounts of monoisopropyl phosphate plus a volatile tritiated compound (possibly propan-2-ol) at later times. 6. Treatment of labelled enzyme with KF released di-isopropyl phosphate and caused reactivation of enzyme to similar degrees. It is concluded that the chemical change from di-isopropyl phosphoryl-enzyme to mono-isopropyl phosphoryl-enzyme and the loss of reactivatibility are related. 7. The rate of aging is similar at pH5.2, 6.5 and 8. Aging is unaffected by addition of reduced glutathione and imidazole at pH5.2 or 8, and none of the transferred (3)H is trapped by these reagents. The mechanism of aging must be different from the better-known dealkylation aging of the cholinesterases.", "PMID": 435251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2621", "title": "Additional evidence for a proform to tropoelastin from chick aorta.", "content": "Evidence is presented for the presence of precursor to tropoelastin in chick arterial extracts. The precursor is approx. 100 000 daltons in size. It is suggested to be a precursor to tropoelastin (72 000 daltons). This protein may be observed in culture in vitro if appropriate precautions are taken to inhibit proteolysis. Once synthesized, it appears to be converted into tropoelastin within 10--20 min. The protein may also be detected in vivo. When 1-day-old cockerels were fed on a copper-deficient diet (less than 1 p.p.m. to inhibit cross-linking) containing epsilon-aminohexanoic acid (0.2%) to retard proteolysis and then injected wiht [3H]valine, extraction of arterial proteins 12h after injection resulted in detection of two major peaks of [3H]valine-labelled protein with pI values of pH 7.0 and 5.0 respectively. The protein that focused at pH 7.0 was estimated to be about 100 000 daltons in size and could be shown to be converted into a more basic protein with the properties of tropoelastin. It is speculated that the protein with pI 5.0 may be yet another extension peptide. The data appear to be in keeping with similar observations by ourselves and others that a proform of tropoelastin exists, and, in at least one step before conversion into tropoelastin, exists as a 100 000-dalton protein subunit.", "contents": "Additional evidence for a proform to tropoelastin from chick aorta. Evidence is presented for the presence of precursor to tropoelastin in chick arterial extracts. The precursor is approx. 100 000 daltons in size. It is suggested to be a precursor to tropoelastin (72 000 daltons). This protein may be observed in culture in vitro if appropriate precautions are taken to inhibit proteolysis. Once synthesized, it appears to be converted into tropoelastin within 10--20 min. The protein may also be detected in vivo. When 1-day-old cockerels were fed on a copper-deficient diet (less than 1 p.p.m. to inhibit cross-linking) containing epsilon-aminohexanoic acid (0.2%) to retard proteolysis and then injected wiht [3H]valine, extraction of arterial proteins 12h after injection resulted in detection of two major peaks of [3H]valine-labelled protein with pI values of pH 7.0 and 5.0 respectively. The protein that focused at pH 7.0 was estimated to be about 100 000 daltons in size and could be shown to be converted into a more basic protein with the properties of tropoelastin. It is speculated that the protein with pI 5.0 may be yet another extension peptide. The data appear to be in keeping with similar observations by ourselves and others that a proform of tropoelastin exists, and, in at least one step before conversion into tropoelastin, exists as a 100 000-dalton protein subunit.", "PMID": 435252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2622", "title": "Comparison of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase variants in staphylococci. Purification, inhibitor studies and N-terminal sequences.", "content": "Four electrophoretic variants of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (types A, B, C and D) found in chloramphenicol-resistant staphylococci were purified by affinity chromatography. Michaelis constants and the kinetics of inactivation with a variety of reagents for the four variants are virtually identical. Their similar amino acid compositions and near identical N-terminal sequences suggest a high degree of overall sequence homology. The thiol-specific reagents 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid), 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid and 2,2'-dithiopyridine are without significant effect on enzyme activity, whereas 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene, N-ethylmaleimide, p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, iodoacetamide, and, particularly, bromoacetyl-CoA and diethyl pyrocarbonate are potent inhibitors. Iodoacetate is not an inhibitor. The results of chemical modification studies on the four enzyme variants and the identification of 3-carboxymethylhistidine in acid hydrolysates of one variant (type C) after inactivation with iodoacetamide suggest that a unique histidine residue may be involved in the mechanism of catalysis.", "contents": "Comparison of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase variants in staphylococci. Purification, inhibitor studies and N-terminal sequences. Four electrophoretic variants of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (types A, B, C and D) found in chloramphenicol-resistant staphylococci were purified by affinity chromatography. Michaelis constants and the kinetics of inactivation with a variety of reagents for the four variants are virtually identical. Their similar amino acid compositions and near identical N-terminal sequences suggest a high degree of overall sequence homology. The thiol-specific reagents 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid), 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid and 2,2'-dithiopyridine are without significant effect on enzyme activity, whereas 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene, N-ethylmaleimide, p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, iodoacetamide, and, particularly, bromoacetyl-CoA and diethyl pyrocarbonate are potent inhibitors. Iodoacetate is not an inhibitor. The results of chemical modification studies on the four enzyme variants and the identification of 3-carboxymethylhistidine in acid hydrolysates of one variant (type C) after inactivation with iodoacetamide suggest that a unique histidine residue may be involved in the mechanism of catalysis.", "PMID": 435253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2623", "title": "The reaction of rabbit muscle creatine kinase with some derivatives of iodoacetamide.", "content": "The dimeric enzyme creatine kinase from rabbit muscle was treated with three derivatives of iodoacetamide that are capable of introducing fluorescent groups into the enzyme. All the three reagents (4-iodoacetamidosalicylate (IAS), 5-[N-(iodoacetamidoethyl)amino]-naphthalene-1-sulphonate (IAEDANS) and 6-(4-iodoacetamidophenyl)aminonaphthalene-2-sulphonate (IAANS)) were shown to react at the same single thiol group on each enzyme subunit, leading to complete inactivation of the enzyme. The reaction with IAS was extremely rapid by comparison with the reaction with iodoacetamide or iodoacetate, but various lines of evidence suggest that IAS is not a true affinity label. However, kinetic and binding studies indicate that salicylate itself probably binds at the nucleotide-binding site on the enzyme. As the size of the modifying reagent increased, the first thiol group reacted more rapidly than the second; this trend was more pronounced at 0 degree C than at 25 degree C. With the largest modifying reagent used (IAANS), the pronounced biphasic nature of the modification reaction permitted the preparation of a hybrid enzyme in which only one subunit was modified, but a study of the thiol-group reactivity showed that this hybrid enzyme preparation underwent subunit rearrangement.", "contents": "The reaction of rabbit muscle creatine kinase with some derivatives of iodoacetamide. The dimeric enzyme creatine kinase from rabbit muscle was treated with three derivatives of iodoacetamide that are capable of introducing fluorescent groups into the enzyme. All the three reagents (4-iodoacetamidosalicylate (IAS), 5-[N-(iodoacetamidoethyl)amino]-naphthalene-1-sulphonate (IAEDANS) and 6-(4-iodoacetamidophenyl)aminonaphthalene-2-sulphonate (IAANS)) were shown to react at the same single thiol group on each enzyme subunit, leading to complete inactivation of the enzyme. The reaction with IAS was extremely rapid by comparison with the reaction with iodoacetamide or iodoacetate, but various lines of evidence suggest that IAS is not a true affinity label. However, kinetic and binding studies indicate that salicylate itself probably binds at the nucleotide-binding site on the enzyme. As the size of the modifying reagent increased, the first thiol group reacted more rapidly than the second; this trend was more pronounced at 0 degree C than at 25 degree C. With the largest modifying reagent used (IAANS), the pronounced biphasic nature of the modification reaction permitted the preparation of a hybrid enzyme in which only one subunit was modified, but a study of the thiol-group reactivity showed that this hybrid enzyme preparation underwent subunit rearrangement.", "PMID": 435254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2624", "title": "Disaggregation of adenylate cyclase during polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in mixtures of ionic and non-ionic detergents.", "content": "1. Adenylate cyclase [ATP pyrophosphate-lyase (cyclizing), EC 4.6.1.1] solubilized from the rat liver plasma membrane with 1% Lubrol PX and partially purified by gel filtration in buffer containing 0.01% Lubrol PX was physically characterized by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. 2. The molecular radius determined for the partially purified enzyme was 4.9nm, compared with the value of 3.9nm obtained for the enzyme before gel filtration. 3. This difference, representing an approximate doubling of the molecular volume of the enzyme, implied that aggregation with itself or other proteins had occurred during partial purification. 4. Aggregation was not reversed by electrophoresis in the presence of high Lubrol concentrations. 5. Substitution of deoxycholate or N-dodecylsarcosinate for Lubrol PX either for solubilization or during electrophoresis led to poorer resolution of membrane proteins at concentrations giving greater than 70% loss of enzyme activity. 6. Partially purified adenylate cyclase was electrophoresed in the presence of mixed micelles of Lubrol PX and deoxycholate or Lubrol PX and N-dodecylsarcosinate. Different mixtures were examined simultaneously in a suitable apparatus. 7. Electrophoresis in the presence of 0.1% Lubrol plus 0.03% deoxycholate decreased the molecular radius of the cyclase to 4.0nm, with greater than 90% recovery of enzymic activity. The net charge of the enzyme was also increased, indicating ionic detergent binding. 8. With 0.1% Lubrol plus 0.03% N-dodecylsarcosinate the molecular radius was 4.3nm, recovery approx. 50% and net charge similar to that seen in Lubrol plus deoxycholate. 9. The resolution of cyclase from bulk protein, on an analytical scale, was improved in the presence of detergent mixtures, as compared with resolution in Lubrol alone. 10. The results demonstrate the usefulness of polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis to detect and overcome aggregation problems with membrane proteins and suggest that detergent mixtures in specific ratios may be useful in the purification of adenylate cyclase and other intrinsic membrane proteins.", "contents": "Disaggregation of adenylate cyclase during polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in mixtures of ionic and non-ionic detergents. 1. Adenylate cyclase [ATP pyrophosphate-lyase (cyclizing), EC 4.6.1.1] solubilized from the rat liver plasma membrane with 1% Lubrol PX and partially purified by gel filtration in buffer containing 0.01% Lubrol PX was physically characterized by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. 2. The molecular radius determined for the partially purified enzyme was 4.9nm, compared with the value of 3.9nm obtained for the enzyme before gel filtration. 3. This difference, representing an approximate doubling of the molecular volume of the enzyme, implied that aggregation with itself or other proteins had occurred during partial purification. 4. Aggregation was not reversed by electrophoresis in the presence of high Lubrol concentrations. 5. Substitution of deoxycholate or N-dodecylsarcosinate for Lubrol PX either for solubilization or during electrophoresis led to poorer resolution of membrane proteins at concentrations giving greater than 70% loss of enzyme activity. 6. Partially purified adenylate cyclase was electrophoresed in the presence of mixed micelles of Lubrol PX and deoxycholate or Lubrol PX and N-dodecylsarcosinate. Different mixtures were examined simultaneously in a suitable apparatus. 7. Electrophoresis in the presence of 0.1% Lubrol plus 0.03% deoxycholate decreased the molecular radius of the cyclase to 4.0nm, with greater than 90% recovery of enzymic activity. The net charge of the enzyme was also increased, indicating ionic detergent binding. 8. With 0.1% Lubrol plus 0.03% N-dodecylsarcosinate the molecular radius was 4.3nm, recovery approx. 50% and net charge similar to that seen in Lubrol plus deoxycholate. 9. The resolution of cyclase from bulk protein, on an analytical scale, was improved in the presence of detergent mixtures, as compared with resolution in Lubrol alone. 10. The results demonstrate the usefulness of polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis to detect and overcome aggregation problems with membrane proteins and suggest that detergent mixtures in specific ratios may be useful in the purification of adenylate cyclase and other intrinsic membrane proteins.", "PMID": 435255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2625", "title": "Patterns of apparent co-operativity in a simple random non-equilibrium enzyme--substrate--modifier mechanism. Comparison with equilibrium allosteric models.", "content": "It has often been claimed that random non-equilibrium mechanisms can result in apparent homotropic and heterotropic effects in steady-state kinetics of the kind more usually attributed to intersubunit allosteric interactions. However, it has never been shown whether any simple random mechanism could in fact give patterns of apparent interaction similar to those predicted by the well-known allosteric models. The patterns of apparent substrate co-operativity and affinity given by the steady-state of a standard simple random substrate-modifier mechanism in which catalytic velocity is proportional to substrate binding have been analysed mathematically and numerically. All patterns possible with this model are described. Some of them rather resemble those possible with standard allosteric models, in that there is a high-affinity and a low-affinity form at zero and infinite modifier concentrations (or vice versa) which show Michaelian behaviour, apparent co-operativity passing through a maximum or minimum at intermediate affinities. Unlike the allosteric models the family of curves is in principle not symmetrical. The random model can also give behaviour not possible with the standard allosteric models, such as higher substrate affinity at intermediate modifier concentrations than at either zero or infinite modifier, with concomitant negative apparent substrate co-operativity, or a single change of sign of apparent substrate co-operativity. The analysis uses recently discovered simplified forms of steady-state equations for random models.", "contents": "Patterns of apparent co-operativity in a simple random non-equilibrium enzyme--substrate--modifier mechanism. Comparison with equilibrium allosteric models. It has often been claimed that random non-equilibrium mechanisms can result in apparent homotropic and heterotropic effects in steady-state kinetics of the kind more usually attributed to intersubunit allosteric interactions. However, it has never been shown whether any simple random mechanism could in fact give patterns of apparent interaction similar to those predicted by the well-known allosteric models. The patterns of apparent substrate co-operativity and affinity given by the steady-state of a standard simple random substrate-modifier mechanism in which catalytic velocity is proportional to substrate binding have been analysed mathematically and numerically. All patterns possible with this model are described. Some of them rather resemble those possible with standard allosteric models, in that there is a high-affinity and a low-affinity form at zero and infinite modifier concentrations (or vice versa) which show Michaelian behaviour, apparent co-operativity passing through a maximum or minimum at intermediate affinities. Unlike the allosteric models the family of curves is in principle not symmetrical. The random model can also give behaviour not possible with the standard allosteric models, such as higher substrate affinity at intermediate modifier concentrations than at either zero or infinite modifier, with concomitant negative apparent substrate co-operativity, or a single change of sign of apparent substrate co-operativity. The analysis uses recently discovered simplified forms of steady-state equations for random models.", "PMID": 435256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2626", "title": "Turtle-dove ovomucoid, a glycoprotein proteinase inhibitor with P1-blood-group antigen activity.", "content": "Ovomucoid from the egg white of turtle-dove (Streptopelia risoria) was purified and shown to be a glycoprotein of mol. wt. 29 400, with valine as N-terminal residue. It is an inhibitor of both trypsin and chymotrypsin, but has a lower affinity for trypsin than has hen ovomucoid. Turtle-dove ovomucoid contains antigenic activity cross-reacting with the blood-group-P1 antigen of human erythrocytes. Hen ovomucoid has no detectable blood group-P1 activity. The carbohydrate composition of turtle-dove ovomucoid differs from hen ovomucoid in having substantially higher galactose content. The possible relationship between carbohydrate composition and antigenic activity is discussed.", "contents": "Turtle-dove ovomucoid, a glycoprotein proteinase inhibitor with P1-blood-group antigen activity. Ovomucoid from the egg white of turtle-dove (Streptopelia risoria) was purified and shown to be a glycoprotein of mol. wt. 29 400, with valine as N-terminal residue. It is an inhibitor of both trypsin and chymotrypsin, but has a lower affinity for trypsin than has hen ovomucoid. Turtle-dove ovomucoid contains antigenic activity cross-reacting with the blood-group-P1 antigen of human erythrocytes. Hen ovomucoid has no detectable blood group-P1 activity. The carbohydrate composition of turtle-dove ovomucoid differs from hen ovomucoid in having substantially higher galactose content. The possible relationship between carbohydrate composition and antigenic activity is discussed.", "PMID": 435257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2627", "title": "Purification of the chloroplast-membrane dicyclohexylcarbodi-imide-binding proteolipid by ion-exchange chromatography.", "content": "An efficient, mild and rapid procedure is reported for the separation of the dicyclohexyl-carbodi-imide-binding protein of chloroplast membranes from endogenous lipid components. By the use of ion-exchange chromatography the chloroplast proteolipid can be successfully separated from the major part of chlorophyll and other membrane lipids while being retained in a butan-1-ol milieu.", "contents": "Purification of the chloroplast-membrane dicyclohexylcarbodi-imide-binding proteolipid by ion-exchange chromatography. An efficient, mild and rapid procedure is reported for the separation of the dicyclohexyl-carbodi-imide-binding protein of chloroplast membranes from endogenous lipid components. By the use of ion-exchange chromatography the chloroplast proteolipid can be successfully separated from the major part of chlorophyll and other membrane lipids while being retained in a butan-1-ol milieu.", "PMID": 435258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2628", "title": "Removal of cadmium(II) from crystallized ferritin.", "content": "The cadmium content of crystallized horse spleen ferritin, usually about 2% by weight without special treatment, can be substantially decreased by prolonged dialysis against certain chelating agents, chaotropic ions, or weakly reducing anions. For example, neutral bisulphite buffer (2M) removed 95% of the bound cadmium of crystallization without affecting the iron content, and may thus be valuable for preparing \"metal-free\" holoferritin for physical-chemical studies.", "contents": "Removal of cadmium(II) from crystallized ferritin. The cadmium content of crystallized horse spleen ferritin, usually about 2% by weight without special treatment, can be substantially decreased by prolonged dialysis against certain chelating agents, chaotropic ions, or weakly reducing anions. For example, neutral bisulphite buffer (2M) removed 95% of the bound cadmium of crystallization without affecting the iron content, and may thus be valuable for preparing \"metal-free\" holoferritin for physical-chemical studies.", "PMID": 435259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2629", "title": "Ligand-induced conformational transitions and secondary structure composition of chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase.", "content": "Apparent conformational transitions induced in chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase by substrates, KHCO(3) and MgATP, and the allosteric effector, acetyl-CoA, were studied by using the fluorescent probe, 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid and c.d. Fluorescence measurements were made with both conventional and stopped-flow spectrophotometers. Additions of acetyl-CoA and/or ATP to the enzyme-probe solutions quenched fluorescence of the probe by the following cumulative amounts regardless of the sequence of additions: acetyl-CoA, 10-13%; ATP, 21-24%; acetyl-CoA plus ATP, about 35%. Additions of KHCO(3) had no effect on the fluorescence. The rates of quenching by acetyl-CoA and MgATP (in the presence of acetyl-CoA) were too rapid to measure by stopped-flow kinetic methods, but kinetics of the MgATP effect (in the absence of acetyl-CoA) indicate three unimolecular transitions after the association step. The negligible effect of the probe on enzyme catalytic activity, a preservation of the near-u.v. c.d. effect of MgATP and acetyl-CoA in the presence of the probe and no observable unimolecular transitions after binding of the probe to the enzyme indicate that the probe had no deleterious effect on the enzyme. In contrast with results with 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid, fluorescence of the epsilon-derivative of acetyl-CoA or ATP [fluorescent analogues; Secrist, Barrio, Leonard & Weber (1972) Biochemistry11, 3499-3506] was not changed when either one was added to the enzyme. Secondary-structure composition of chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase estimated from the far-u.v. c.d. spectrum of the enzyme is 27% helix, 7% beta-pleated sheet and 66% other structural types.", "contents": "Ligand-induced conformational transitions and secondary structure composition of chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase. Apparent conformational transitions induced in chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase by substrates, KHCO(3) and MgATP, and the allosteric effector, acetyl-CoA, were studied by using the fluorescent probe, 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid and c.d. Fluorescence measurements were made with both conventional and stopped-flow spectrophotometers. Additions of acetyl-CoA and/or ATP to the enzyme-probe solutions quenched fluorescence of the probe by the following cumulative amounts regardless of the sequence of additions: acetyl-CoA, 10-13%; ATP, 21-24%; acetyl-CoA plus ATP, about 35%. Additions of KHCO(3) had no effect on the fluorescence. The rates of quenching by acetyl-CoA and MgATP (in the presence of acetyl-CoA) were too rapid to measure by stopped-flow kinetic methods, but kinetics of the MgATP effect (in the absence of acetyl-CoA) indicate three unimolecular transitions after the association step. The negligible effect of the probe on enzyme catalytic activity, a preservation of the near-u.v. c.d. effect of MgATP and acetyl-CoA in the presence of the probe and no observable unimolecular transitions after binding of the probe to the enzyme indicate that the probe had no deleterious effect on the enzyme. In contrast with results with 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid, fluorescence of the epsilon-derivative of acetyl-CoA or ATP [fluorescent analogues; Secrist, Barrio, Leonard & Weber (1972) Biochemistry11, 3499-3506] was not changed when either one was added to the enzyme. Secondary-structure composition of chicken liver pyruvate carboxylase estimated from the far-u.v. c.d. spectrum of the enzyme is 27% helix, 7% beta-pleated sheet and 66% other structural types.", "PMID": 435260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2630", "title": "Purification and some properties of a protein factor binding and deacylating initiator transfer ribonucleic acid.", "content": "1. A protein factor promoting the binding of initiator tRNA to the 40S ribosomal subunit was purified to homogeneity (more than 2500-fold) from rat liver cytosol. It has a mol.wt. of 265000 and is composed of four subunits of identical molecular weight. 2. This factor directs the binding of methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and to a lesser extent also of N-acetylphenylalanyl-tRNA, but not of methionyl-tRNA(Met) or phenylalanyl-tRNA, to the smaller ribosomal subunit at high concentrations of GTP (8-10mm) with an optimum at pH4.0. As evidenced by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation, initiator tRNA becomes bound to the 40S subunit or to 80S ribosomes. 3. A deacylase activity specific for methionyl-tRNA(fMet) is associated with the pure factor. The factor significantly stimulates the translation of natural message in systems containing polyribosomes and both purified peptide-elongation factors. 4. The factor binds initiator tRNA or GTP to form unstable binary complexes and forms a ternary complex with methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and GTP. This complex is relatively stable. 5. In the absence of any cofactors the factor forms a stable complex with 40S and 80S ribosomes. This preformed ribosomal complex binds efficiently initiator tRNA at pH7.5 and low concentrations of GTP (1-2mm). The ternary complex of the factor with methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and GTP may be liberated from this ribosomal complex. 6. A protein factor capable of promoting the binding and simultaneously the deacylation of initiator tRNA may apparently have a regulatory function in physiological gene translation by removing an excess of methionyl-tRNA(fMet) not required for translation.", "contents": "Purification and some properties of a protein factor binding and deacylating initiator transfer ribonucleic acid. 1. A protein factor promoting the binding of initiator tRNA to the 40S ribosomal subunit was purified to homogeneity (more than 2500-fold) from rat liver cytosol. It has a mol.wt. of 265000 and is composed of four subunits of identical molecular weight. 2. This factor directs the binding of methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and to a lesser extent also of N-acetylphenylalanyl-tRNA, but not of methionyl-tRNA(Met) or phenylalanyl-tRNA, to the smaller ribosomal subunit at high concentrations of GTP (8-10mm) with an optimum at pH4.0. As evidenced by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation, initiator tRNA becomes bound to the 40S subunit or to 80S ribosomes. 3. A deacylase activity specific for methionyl-tRNA(fMet) is associated with the pure factor. The factor significantly stimulates the translation of natural message in systems containing polyribosomes and both purified peptide-elongation factors. 4. The factor binds initiator tRNA or GTP to form unstable binary complexes and forms a ternary complex with methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and GTP. This complex is relatively stable. 5. In the absence of any cofactors the factor forms a stable complex with 40S and 80S ribosomes. This preformed ribosomal complex binds efficiently initiator tRNA at pH7.5 and low concentrations of GTP (1-2mm). The ternary complex of the factor with methionyl-tRNA(fMet) and GTP may be liberated from this ribosomal complex. 6. A protein factor capable of promoting the binding and simultaneously the deacylation of initiator tRNA may apparently have a regulatory function in physiological gene translation by removing an excess of methionyl-tRNA(fMet) not required for translation.", "PMID": 435261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2631", "title": "Enzyme-induced inactivation of transminases by acetylenic and vinyl analogues of 4-aminobutyrate.", "content": "The reactions of two analogues of 4-aminobutyrate, namely 4-aminohex-5-ynoate and 4-aminohex-5-enoate, with three transaminases were studied. Three pure enzymes were used, aminobutyrate transaminase (EC 2.6.1.19), ornithine transaminase (EC 2.6.1.13) and aspartate transaminase (EC 2.6.1.1), and the course of the reactions was studied by observing changes in the absorption spectrum of the bound coenzyme and by observing loss of activity. All of the enzymes were inactivated by either inhibitor, but amino-hexenoate showed a marked specificity for aminobutyrate transaminase. Aminohexynoate was most potent towards ornithine transaminase, and with this enzyme transamination of the inhibitor is an important factor in protecting the enzyme. Most of the reactions could be analysed as first order, with the observed rate constant showing a hyperbolic dependence on inhibitor concentration.", "contents": "Enzyme-induced inactivation of transminases by acetylenic and vinyl analogues of 4-aminobutyrate. The reactions of two analogues of 4-aminobutyrate, namely 4-aminohex-5-ynoate and 4-aminohex-5-enoate, with three transaminases were studied. Three pure enzymes were used, aminobutyrate transaminase (EC 2.6.1.19), ornithine transaminase (EC 2.6.1.13) and aspartate transaminase (EC 2.6.1.1), and the course of the reactions was studied by observing changes in the absorption spectrum of the bound coenzyme and by observing loss of activity. All of the enzymes were inactivated by either inhibitor, but amino-hexenoate showed a marked specificity for aminobutyrate transaminase. Aminohexynoate was most potent towards ornithine transaminase, and with this enzyme transamination of the inhibitor is an important factor in protecting the enzyme. Most of the reactions could be analysed as first order, with the observed rate constant showing a hyperbolic dependence on inhibitor concentration.", "PMID": 435262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2632", "title": "The direct radioimmunoassay of oestrogen glucuronides in human female urine.", "content": "Radioimmunoassays for five oestrogen metabolites in urine are described; they are oestrone 3-glucuronide, oestradiol 3-glucuronide, oestradiol 17 beta-glucuronide, oestriol 3-glucuronide and oestriol 16 alpha-glucuronide. These assays have proved accurate and reliable and can be performed rapidly; they have been carried out directly in diluted menstrual cycle urine and pregnancy urine. No sample pretreatment was required. Preliminary results suggest that clinically useful information can be obtained by performing these assays on random urine specimens.", "contents": "The direct radioimmunoassay of oestrogen glucuronides in human female urine. Radioimmunoassays for five oestrogen metabolites in urine are described; they are oestrone 3-glucuronide, oestradiol 3-glucuronide, oestradiol 17 beta-glucuronide, oestriol 3-glucuronide and oestriol 16 alpha-glucuronide. These assays have proved accurate and reliable and can be performed rapidly; they have been carried out directly in diluted menstrual cycle urine and pregnancy urine. No sample pretreatment was required. Preliminary results suggest that clinically useful information can be obtained by performing these assays on random urine specimens.", "PMID": 435263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2633", "title": "The intrinsic fluorescence of isolated central-nervous-system myelin-sheath preparations.", "content": "The intrinsic fluorescence characteristics of tyrosine and tryptophan residues in the proteins of isolated central-nervous-system myelin were investigated to gain information concerning the location of these residues within the intact membrane system. Tryptophan fluorescence from isolated myelin has an emission maximum at 325 nm that appears to arise from at least two different populations of tryptophan residues. Further evidence for heterogeneity of tryptophan location in the membrane is obtained from quenching studies with chloroform and acrylamide. It is speculated that one tryptophan population is hydrophobically situated and may be derived from the proteolipid protein of myelin, whereas the other tryptophan population is located at the membrane surface and may arise from the extrinsic basic protein. A significant tyrosine fluorescence is detected from isolated myelin, indicating that some of these residues are not quenched by structural interactions within the lipid--protein membrane system. Studies with freeze-dried resuspended myelin suggest that the structural arrangement of protein components in the dried rehydrated membrane system differs significantly from that of the freshly isolated myelin membrane.", "contents": "The intrinsic fluorescence of isolated central-nervous-system myelin-sheath preparations. The intrinsic fluorescence characteristics of tyrosine and tryptophan residues in the proteins of isolated central-nervous-system myelin were investigated to gain information concerning the location of these residues within the intact membrane system. Tryptophan fluorescence from isolated myelin has an emission maximum at 325 nm that appears to arise from at least two different populations of tryptophan residues. Further evidence for heterogeneity of tryptophan location in the membrane is obtained from quenching studies with chloroform and acrylamide. It is speculated that one tryptophan population is hydrophobically situated and may be derived from the proteolipid protein of myelin, whereas the other tryptophan population is located at the membrane surface and may arise from the extrinsic basic protein. A significant tyrosine fluorescence is detected from isolated myelin, indicating that some of these residues are not quenched by structural interactions within the lipid--protein membrane system. Studies with freeze-dried resuspended myelin suggest that the structural arrangement of protein components in the dried rehydrated membrane system differs significantly from that of the freshly isolated myelin membrane.", "PMID": 435264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2634", "title": "Carbohydrate composition of human placental N-acetylhexosaminidase A and B.", "content": "The carbohydrate composition of N-acetyl-beta-D-hexosaminidases (EC 3.2.1.52) A, B and heat-converted B was determined by g.l.c. Similar quantities of mannose, N-acetyl-glucosamine and galactose are present in the A and B isoenzymes, whereas N-acetyl-neuraminic acid is found in significant amount in only the A isoenzyme. The heat-converted hexosaminidase B also contains only trace amounts of N-acetylneuraminic acid, but is about 1.5-fold richer in mannose and N-acetylglucosamine and nearly 2-fold richer in galactose than native hexosaminidase B. Since native and converted hexosaminidase B are thought to be composed of four identical protein chains, our results suggest that there may be variable glycosylation of these chains.", "contents": "Carbohydrate composition of human placental N-acetylhexosaminidase A and B. The carbohydrate composition of N-acetyl-beta-D-hexosaminidases (EC 3.2.1.52) A, B and heat-converted B was determined by g.l.c. Similar quantities of mannose, N-acetyl-glucosamine and galactose are present in the A and B isoenzymes, whereas N-acetyl-neuraminic acid is found in significant amount in only the A isoenzyme. The heat-converted hexosaminidase B also contains only trace amounts of N-acetylneuraminic acid, but is about 1.5-fold richer in mannose and N-acetylglucosamine and nearly 2-fold richer in galactose than native hexosaminidase B. Since native and converted hexosaminidase B are thought to be composed of four identical protein chains, our results suggest that there may be variable glycosylation of these chains.", "PMID": 435265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2635", "title": "Subunit composition of human liver alpha-L-fucosidase.", "content": "The subunit composition of human liver alpha-L-fucosidase was studied by using three different procedures for treating and electrophoresing the purified enzyme. Although the presence on only one subunit was found by conventional procedures using sodium dodecyl sulphate and urea, two non-identical subunits with mol. wts. of 59 000 and 54 000 were found when the alpha-L-fucosidase was reduced and S-carboxymethylated with iodoacetate followed by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels containing 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulphate and 8.0 M-urea.", "contents": "Subunit composition of human liver alpha-L-fucosidase. The subunit composition of human liver alpha-L-fucosidase was studied by using three different procedures for treating and electrophoresing the purified enzyme. Although the presence on only one subunit was found by conventional procedures using sodium dodecyl sulphate and urea, two non-identical subunits with mol. wts. of 59 000 and 54 000 were found when the alpha-L-fucosidase was reduced and S-carboxymethylated with iodoacetate followed by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels containing 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulphate and 8.0 M-urea.", "PMID": 435266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2636", "title": "Lipid and steroid hydroperoxides as substrates for the non-selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase.", "content": "The reduction of linoleic acid hydroperoxide catalysed by rat liver cytosol was previously shown to be catalysed by a selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase. In contrast, the enzyme responsible in guinea-pig liver cytosol is not selenium-dependent and appears to be a glutathione transferase.", "contents": "Lipid and steroid hydroperoxides as substrates for the non-selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase. The reduction of linoleic acid hydroperoxide catalysed by rat liver cytosol was previously shown to be catalysed by a selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase. In contrast, the enzyme responsible in guinea-pig liver cytosol is not selenium-dependent and appears to be a glutathione transferase.", "PMID": 435267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2637", "title": "Mapping the membrane proteins of Newcastle-disease virus with a photoreactive glycolipid probe.", "content": "The envelope proteins of Newcastle-disease virus were preferentially labelled when a suspension of virus particles that contained the photoreactive probe 12-(4-azido-2-nitro-phenoxy)stearoyl[1-14C]glucosamine was irradiated. One of the proteins labelled was not readily accessible to surface labelling with 125I.", "contents": "Mapping the membrane proteins of Newcastle-disease virus with a photoreactive glycolipid probe. The envelope proteins of Newcastle-disease virus were preferentially labelled when a suspension of virus particles that contained the photoreactive probe 12-(4-azido-2-nitro-phenoxy)stearoyl[1-14C]glucosamine was irradiated. One of the proteins labelled was not readily accessible to surface labelling with 125I.", "PMID": 435268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2638", "title": "Anabolism versus catabolism of [5-3H]uridine and its relationship to ribonucleic acid labelling in mouse liver after partial hepatectomy.", "content": "The balance between anabolism and catabolism of [5-(3)H]uridine was studied in the mouse after partial hepatectomy. Labelling of RNA and UDP-glucose was determined and evaluated in relation to changes in the specific radioactivity of UTP. The amounts of labelled catabolic products of uridine were increased several-fold in liver and blood after partial hepatectomy. The specific radioactivity of RNA decreased to about 60% of the control value at 6h and was in the same range as that of control liver at 24h after operation. Decreased labelling of RNA and UDP-glucose was attributable to decreased specific radioactivity of UTP. No changes in the size of the UTP pool or in the balance between uridine anabolism and catabolism were found that could explain the decreased specific radioactivity of UTP. Rather, the alterations in the labelling of this metabolite induced by the partial hepatectomy may be related to decreased phosphorylating capacity in the liver cells and/or dilution of the labelled precursor in an expanded uridine pool. The enhanced amounts of uridine catabolic products in liver and blood were probably a consequence of accumulation and altered incorporation of the metabolites from the blood into the liver cells. Despite the increased amounts of labelled catabolic products and the decreased labelling of RNA, the results reported here actually suggest decreased uridine catabolism and slightly increased RNA synthesis in mouse liver after partial hepatectomy. The results stress the importance of proper controls in determination of nucleic acid synthesis and in metabolic studies by use of labelled precursors.", "contents": "Anabolism versus catabolism of [5-3H]uridine and its relationship to ribonucleic acid labelling in mouse liver after partial hepatectomy. The balance between anabolism and catabolism of [5-(3)H]uridine was studied in the mouse after partial hepatectomy. Labelling of RNA and UDP-glucose was determined and evaluated in relation to changes in the specific radioactivity of UTP. The amounts of labelled catabolic products of uridine were increased several-fold in liver and blood after partial hepatectomy. The specific radioactivity of RNA decreased to about 60% of the control value at 6h and was in the same range as that of control liver at 24h after operation. Decreased labelling of RNA and UDP-glucose was attributable to decreased specific radioactivity of UTP. No changes in the size of the UTP pool or in the balance between uridine anabolism and catabolism were found that could explain the decreased specific radioactivity of UTP. Rather, the alterations in the labelling of this metabolite induced by the partial hepatectomy may be related to decreased phosphorylating capacity in the liver cells and/or dilution of the labelled precursor in an expanded uridine pool. The enhanced amounts of uridine catabolic products in liver and blood were probably a consequence of accumulation and altered incorporation of the metabolites from the blood into the liver cells. Despite the increased amounts of labelled catabolic products and the decreased labelling of RNA, the results reported here actually suggest decreased uridine catabolism and slightly increased RNA synthesis in mouse liver after partial hepatectomy. The results stress the importance of proper controls in determination of nucleic acid synthesis and in metabolic studies by use of labelled precursors.", "PMID": 435269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2639", "title": "Suppression of the formation of polyamines and macromolecules by DL-alpha-difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) in phytohaemagglutinin-activated human lymphocytes.", "content": "1. The activation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes by phytohaemagglutinin in vitro was accompanied by striking increases in the concentrations of the natural polyamines putrescine, spermidine and spermine. 2. The enhanced accumulation of polyamines could be almost totally abolished by dl-alpha-difluoromethylornithine, a newly discovered irreversible inhibitor of l-ornithine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.17), or by methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) {1,1'-[(methylethanediylidene)dinitrilo]diguanidine}, an inhibitor of S-adenosyl-l-methionine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.50). The inhibition of polyamine accumulation was associated with a marked suppression of DNA synthesis, which was partially or totally reversed by low concentrations of exogenous putrescine, spermidine, spermine and cadaverine and by higher concentrations of 1,3-diaminopropane. 3. In contrast with some earlier studies, we found that methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), at concentrations that were sufficient to prevent polyamine accumulation, also caused a clear inhibition of protein synthesis in the activated lymphocytes. Similar results were obtained with difluoromethylornithine. The decrease in protein synthesis caused by both compounds preceded the impairment of DNA synthesis. The inhibition of protein synthesis by difluoromethylornithine was fully reversed by exogenous putrescine, spermidine and spermine, and that caused by methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) by spermidine and spermine. In further support of the idea that the inhibition of protein synthesis by these compounds was related to the polyamine depletion, we found that difluoromethylornithine caused a dose-dependent decrease in the incorporation of [(14)C]leucine into lymphocyte proteins which closely correlated with the decreased concentrations of cellular spermidine. 4. Difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) also elicited a variable depression in the incorporation of [(3)H]uridine and [(14)C]adenine into total RNA. The apparent turnover of lymphocyte RNA remained essentially unchanged in spite of severe polyamine depletion brought about by difluoromethylornithine. 5. The present results, as well as confirming the anti-proliferative action of the inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, suggest that polyamine depletion may interfere with reactions at different levels of gene expression.", "contents": "Suppression of the formation of polyamines and macromolecules by DL-alpha-difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) in phytohaemagglutinin-activated human lymphocytes. 1. The activation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes by phytohaemagglutinin in vitro was accompanied by striking increases in the concentrations of the natural polyamines putrescine, spermidine and spermine. 2. The enhanced accumulation of polyamines could be almost totally abolished by dl-alpha-difluoromethylornithine, a newly discovered irreversible inhibitor of l-ornithine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.17), or by methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) {1,1'-[(methylethanediylidene)dinitrilo]diguanidine}, an inhibitor of S-adenosyl-l-methionine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.50). The inhibition of polyamine accumulation was associated with a marked suppression of DNA synthesis, which was partially or totally reversed by low concentrations of exogenous putrescine, spermidine, spermine and cadaverine and by higher concentrations of 1,3-diaminopropane. 3. In contrast with some earlier studies, we found that methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), at concentrations that were sufficient to prevent polyamine accumulation, also caused a clear inhibition of protein synthesis in the activated lymphocytes. Similar results were obtained with difluoromethylornithine. The decrease in protein synthesis caused by both compounds preceded the impairment of DNA synthesis. The inhibition of protein synthesis by difluoromethylornithine was fully reversed by exogenous putrescine, spermidine and spermine, and that caused by methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) by spermidine and spermine. In further support of the idea that the inhibition of protein synthesis by these compounds was related to the polyamine depletion, we found that difluoromethylornithine caused a dose-dependent decrease in the incorporation of [(14)C]leucine into lymphocyte proteins which closely correlated with the decreased concentrations of cellular spermidine. 4. Difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) also elicited a variable depression in the incorporation of [(3)H]uridine and [(14)C]adenine into total RNA. The apparent turnover of lymphocyte RNA remained essentially unchanged in spite of severe polyamine depletion brought about by difluoromethylornithine. 5. The present results, as well as confirming the anti-proliferative action of the inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, suggest that polyamine depletion may interfere with reactions at different levels of gene expression.", "PMID": 435270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2640", "title": "Mechanism of activation of glycogen phosphorylase by fructose in the liver. Stimulation of phosphorylase kinase related to the consumption of adenosine triphosphate.", "content": "1. A dose-dependent activation of phosphorylase and consumption of ATP was observed in isolated hepatocytes incubated in the presence of fructose; histone kinase and phosphorylase kinase activities were unchanged at doses of this sugar that were fully effective on phosphorylase. The activation of phosphorylase by fructose was also observed in cells incubated in a Ca2+-free medium as well as in the livers of rats in vivo. 2. In a liver high-speed supernatant, fructose, tagatose and sorbose stimulated the activity of phosphorylase kinase; this effect was dependent on the presence of K+ ions, which are required for the activity of fructokinase; it was accompanied by the transformation of ATP into ADP. In the presence of hexokinase, glucose also stimulated phosphorylase kinase, both in an Na+ or a K+ medium. 3. The activities of partially purified muscle or liver phosphorylase kinase were unchanged in the presence of fructose. 4. Some properties of liver phosphorylase kinase are described, including a high molecular weight and an inhibition at ATP/Mg ratios above 0.5, as well as an effect of ATP concentration on the hysteretic behaviour of this enzyme. 5. The effect of fructose on the activation of phosphorylase is discussed in relation to the comsumption of ATP.", "contents": "Mechanism of activation of glycogen phosphorylase by fructose in the liver. Stimulation of phosphorylase kinase related to the consumption of adenosine triphosphate. 1. A dose-dependent activation of phosphorylase and consumption of ATP was observed in isolated hepatocytes incubated in the presence of fructose; histone kinase and phosphorylase kinase activities were unchanged at doses of this sugar that were fully effective on phosphorylase. The activation of phosphorylase by fructose was also observed in cells incubated in a Ca2+-free medium as well as in the livers of rats in vivo. 2. In a liver high-speed supernatant, fructose, tagatose and sorbose stimulated the activity of phosphorylase kinase; this effect was dependent on the presence of K+ ions, which are required for the activity of fructokinase; it was accompanied by the transformation of ATP into ADP. In the presence of hexokinase, glucose also stimulated phosphorylase kinase, both in an Na+ or a K+ medium. 3. The activities of partially purified muscle or liver phosphorylase kinase were unchanged in the presence of fructose. 4. Some properties of liver phosphorylase kinase are described, including a high molecular weight and an inhibition at ATP/Mg ratios above 0.5, as well as an effect of ATP concentration on the hysteretic behaviour of this enzyme. 5. The effect of fructose on the activation of phosphorylase is discussed in relation to the comsumption of ATP.", "PMID": 435271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2641", "title": "Effect of glucocorticoid administration on the rate of muscle protein breakdown in vivo in rats, as measured by urinary excretion of N tau-methylhistidine.", "content": "The role of glucocorticoids in regulating the rate of muscle protein breakdown was evaluated by measuring excretion of N(tau)-methylhistidine during administration of various doses of corticosterone to adrenalectomized rats. Groups of rats received daily subcutaneous injections of 0, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 or 10.0mg of corticosterone/day per 100g body wt. for 7 days, followed by 3 days without hormone treatment, after which they were killed. A group with intact adrenal glands served as an additional control. All animals were pair-fed with the untreated adrenalectomized group. No significant differences were noted in growth rate or N(tau)-methylhistidine excretion between the intact or adrenalectomized control groups, or those given 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0mg of corticosterone, whereas growth ceased and N(tau)-methylhistidine excretion rose markedly in the groups receiving 5 and 10mg of corticosterone. After these two high doses of corticosterone, but not after lower doses, there was a loss of weight of the gastrocnemius muscle per 100g of final body wt., but not of the soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles. The two highest doses of corticosterone also resulted in an increase in liver weight per 100g of final body wt. Lower doses of corticosterone did not cause these changes. Plasma corticosterone concentrations, measured on the final day of injection and again at the time of killing, were decreased to near zero by adrenalectomy and were little raised by doses of 0.2 and 0.5mg daily, but were increased to within the normal range by the 1mg dose. At 5 and 10mg doses, plasma corticosterone concentrations were sustained at 2-3 times those of intact rats, and thus in the range reported for rats exposed to severe stress. Rats given 5 and 10mg doses of corticosterone had glycosuria, and showed considerably elevated concentrations of insulin in the plasma. It is concluded that plasma concentrations of glucocorticoids within the normal range do not regulate the rate of muscle protein breakdown, whereas excessive plasma concentrations of corticosteroids, equivalent to those observed in severe stress, can accelerate muscle protein breakdown.", "contents": "Effect of glucocorticoid administration on the rate of muscle protein breakdown in vivo in rats, as measured by urinary excretion of N tau-methylhistidine. The role of glucocorticoids in regulating the rate of muscle protein breakdown was evaluated by measuring excretion of N(tau)-methylhistidine during administration of various doses of corticosterone to adrenalectomized rats. Groups of rats received daily subcutaneous injections of 0, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 or 10.0mg of corticosterone/day per 100g body wt. for 7 days, followed by 3 days without hormone treatment, after which they were killed. A group with intact adrenal glands served as an additional control. All animals were pair-fed with the untreated adrenalectomized group. No significant differences were noted in growth rate or N(tau)-methylhistidine excretion between the intact or adrenalectomized control groups, or those given 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0mg of corticosterone, whereas growth ceased and N(tau)-methylhistidine excretion rose markedly in the groups receiving 5 and 10mg of corticosterone. After these two high doses of corticosterone, but not after lower doses, there was a loss of weight of the gastrocnemius muscle per 100g of final body wt., but not of the soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles. The two highest doses of corticosterone also resulted in an increase in liver weight per 100g of final body wt. Lower doses of corticosterone did not cause these changes. Plasma corticosterone concentrations, measured on the final day of injection and again at the time of killing, were decreased to near zero by adrenalectomy and were little raised by doses of 0.2 and 0.5mg daily, but were increased to within the normal range by the 1mg dose. At 5 and 10mg doses, plasma corticosterone concentrations were sustained at 2-3 times those of intact rats, and thus in the range reported for rats exposed to severe stress. Rats given 5 and 10mg doses of corticosterone had glycosuria, and showed considerably elevated concentrations of insulin in the plasma. It is concluded that plasma concentrations of glucocorticoids within the normal range do not regulate the rate of muscle protein breakdown, whereas excessive plasma concentrations of corticosteroids, equivalent to those observed in severe stress, can accelerate muscle protein breakdown.", "PMID": 435272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2642", "title": "Interaction of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase monomer with phospholipid vesicles.", "content": "The association between bovine and porcine mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.37) and phospholipid vesicles was investigated. At concentrations at which malate dehydrogenase exists as a dimer, entrapment within the aqueous compartment but not binding of the 14C-labelled enzyme was observed. The dissociated enzyme was labile to moderate heat and to p-chloromercuribenzoate, but in both cases inactivation was decreased by incubation with suspensions of charged phospholipid vesicles. This suggested an interaction between enzyme subunits and phospholipid, and this was confirmed by direct binding measurements and by studies that followed changes in the fluorescein-labelled enzyme. The circular-dichroism spectra of the enzyme indicated a high alpha-helix content, and suggested that a small conformational change occurred when the enzyme dissociated. Fluorescence data also suggested less-rigid molecules after dissociation. A possible mechanism, based on the flexibility of enzyme monomer and its interaction with phospholipids, by which mitochondrial matrix enzymes are specifically localized in cells, is discussed.", "contents": "Interaction of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase monomer with phospholipid vesicles. The association between bovine and porcine mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.37) and phospholipid vesicles was investigated. At concentrations at which malate dehydrogenase exists as a dimer, entrapment within the aqueous compartment but not binding of the 14C-labelled enzyme was observed. The dissociated enzyme was labile to moderate heat and to p-chloromercuribenzoate, but in both cases inactivation was decreased by incubation with suspensions of charged phospholipid vesicles. This suggested an interaction between enzyme subunits and phospholipid, and this was confirmed by direct binding measurements and by studies that followed changes in the fluorescein-labelled enzyme. The circular-dichroism spectra of the enzyme indicated a high alpha-helix content, and suggested that a small conformational change occurred when the enzyme dissociated. Fluorescence data also suggested less-rigid molecules after dissociation. A possible mechanism, based on the flexibility of enzyme monomer and its interaction with phospholipids, by which mitochondrial matrix enzymes are specifically localized in cells, is discussed.", "PMID": 435273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2643", "title": "Computed resolution and relative specific radioactivities of radiolabelled proteins synthesized by isolated gastric mucosal cells.", "content": "1. By radiolabelling, polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate and fluorography, more than 50 soluble proteins in the molecular-weight range 15000-100000 were shown to continue to be synthesized after cells had been isolated from rat gastric mucosa. 2. Densitometric measurements of stained gels and fluorographic films were processed by computer to resolve individual overlapping Gaussian peaks corresponding to the protein bands. 3. Comparison of resolved peak areas of radioactivity and staining showed certain bands to have characteristically high relative specific radioactivities. 4. The computer programs (in FORTRAN) permit the analysis of a single densitometric trace or the simultaneous comparison of a corresponding pair of densitometric records of stained gels, or of fluorographic films, or a combination. Central processing unit time is used economically. 5. The programs identify the Gaussian components that contribute to the records and estimate their means, standard deviations and enclosed areas. These estimates are improved by a piecewise iterative method that minimizes the errors between the calculated and the experimental data. 6. Relative specific radioactivities are calculated as the normalized ratio of the area of a fluorographic film peak and the area of the corresponding stained gel peak. The computer programs have been deposited as Supplementary Publication SUP 50094 (55 pages) at the British Library Lending Division, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7BQ, U.K., from whom copies can be obtained on the terms given in Biochem. J. (1978) 169, 5.", "contents": "Computed resolution and relative specific radioactivities of radiolabelled proteins synthesized by isolated gastric mucosal cells. 1. By radiolabelling, polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate and fluorography, more than 50 soluble proteins in the molecular-weight range 15000-100000 were shown to continue to be synthesized after cells had been isolated from rat gastric mucosa. 2. Densitometric measurements of stained gels and fluorographic films were processed by computer to resolve individual overlapping Gaussian peaks corresponding to the protein bands. 3. Comparison of resolved peak areas of radioactivity and staining showed certain bands to have characteristically high relative specific radioactivities. 4. The computer programs (in FORTRAN) permit the analysis of a single densitometric trace or the simultaneous comparison of a corresponding pair of densitometric records of stained gels, or of fluorographic films, or a combination. Central processing unit time is used economically. 5. The programs identify the Gaussian components that contribute to the records and estimate their means, standard deviations and enclosed areas. These estimates are improved by a piecewise iterative method that minimizes the errors between the calculated and the experimental data. 6. Relative specific radioactivities are calculated as the normalized ratio of the area of a fluorographic film peak and the area of the corresponding stained gel peak. The computer programs have been deposited as Supplementary Publication SUP 50094 (55 pages) at the British Library Lending Division, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7BQ, U.K., from whom copies can be obtained on the terms given in Biochem. J. (1978) 169, 5.", "PMID": 435274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2644", "title": "Methane synthesis without the addition of adenosine triphosphate by cell membranes isolated from Methanobacterium ruminantium.", "content": "The membrane fraction isolated from broken cells of Methanobacterium ruminantium actively synthesized methane from CO2 and H2 without the addition of ATP or other cofactors. This activity was lost unless strictly anaerobic conditions were maintained throughout the isolation and incubation procedures. 3H2, but not 3H2O, was readily incorporated into methane. This indicates that hydrogen atoms are used in the formation of methane without the prior equilibration of protons with the water phase. Methylenetetrahydrofolate was shown to be converted into methane, but less efficiently than CO2. The evidence indicates that tetrahydrofolate derivatives may not be of primary importance in the formation of methane from CO2 and H2. No requirement for ATP in methanogenesis could be demonstrated. However, chemical reagents that can increase proton conductance in membranes and therby abolish the membrane electrical potential were also effective inhibitors of methanogenesis. It was postulated that, although the reduction of CO2 to methane by bacterial membranes may require energy derived from a transmembrane potential, this does not appear to be coupled to the intermediary synthesis of ATP.", "contents": "Methane synthesis without the addition of adenosine triphosphate by cell membranes isolated from Methanobacterium ruminantium. The membrane fraction isolated from broken cells of Methanobacterium ruminantium actively synthesized methane from CO2 and H2 without the addition of ATP or other cofactors. This activity was lost unless strictly anaerobic conditions were maintained throughout the isolation and incubation procedures. 3H2, but not 3H2O, was readily incorporated into methane. This indicates that hydrogen atoms are used in the formation of methane without the prior equilibration of protons with the water phase. Methylenetetrahydrofolate was shown to be converted into methane, but less efficiently than CO2. The evidence indicates that tetrahydrofolate derivatives may not be of primary importance in the formation of methane from CO2 and H2. No requirement for ATP in methanogenesis could be demonstrated. However, chemical reagents that can increase proton conductance in membranes and therby abolish the membrane electrical potential were also effective inhibitors of methanogenesis. It was postulated that, although the reduction of CO2 to methane by bacterial membranes may require energy derived from a transmembrane potential, this does not appear to be coupled to the intermediary synthesis of ATP.", "PMID": 435275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2645", "title": "Nucleosomes from normal and regenerating rat liver.", "content": "Micrococcal-nuclease digestion of rat liver nuclei selectively released mononucleosomes associated with ADP-ribosylated [Caplan, Ord & Stocken (1978) Biochem. J.174, 475-483] histone H1. Two classes of mononucleosome were detected, those that leaked out during digestion and those that were subsequently released by 5mm-sodium phosphate buffer (pH6.8)/0.2mm-NaEDTA. The former, from which histone H1 had been dissociated, contained 140-base-pair-length DNA and core histones;the latter contained core particles and mononucleosomes with histone H1 and 200-base-pair-length DNA. When normal liver nuclei were phosphorylated with [gamma-(32)P]ATP, dissociated histone H1, which could be separated from core particles with Sephadex G-200, showed (32)P uptake. (32)P uptake into histones H2A and poly(ADP-ribosyl)ated H3 was appreciable in core particles, but was less evident in nucleosomes still containing histone H1. When [(3)H]-thymidine was given to partially hepatectomized rats in S-phase, 5-10min pulses in animals of over 300g body wt. showed the presence of high-specific-radioactivity DNA in released core particles and mononucleosomes compared with DNA retained in the nuclear pellets. Mononucleosomes from rat livers in S-phase with new, [(3)H]lysine-containing histones, had higher (32)P incorporation in histones H1 and their core histones, than for di- or tri-nucleosomes. Thermal-denaturation properties of control and phosphorylated mononucleosomes and core particles were very similar; removal of histone H1 and non-histone chromosomal proteins in 0.5m-NaCl markedly increased the proportion of DNA ;melting' below 70 degrees C.", "contents": "Nucleosomes from normal and regenerating rat liver. Micrococcal-nuclease digestion of rat liver nuclei selectively released mononucleosomes associated with ADP-ribosylated [Caplan, Ord & Stocken (1978) Biochem. J.174, 475-483] histone H1. Two classes of mononucleosome were detected, those that leaked out during digestion and those that were subsequently released by 5mm-sodium phosphate buffer (pH6.8)/0.2mm-NaEDTA. The former, from which histone H1 had been dissociated, contained 140-base-pair-length DNA and core histones;the latter contained core particles and mononucleosomes with histone H1 and 200-base-pair-length DNA. When normal liver nuclei were phosphorylated with [gamma-(32)P]ATP, dissociated histone H1, which could be separated from core particles with Sephadex G-200, showed (32)P uptake. (32)P uptake into histones H2A and poly(ADP-ribosyl)ated H3 was appreciable in core particles, but was less evident in nucleosomes still containing histone H1. When [(3)H]-thymidine was given to partially hepatectomized rats in S-phase, 5-10min pulses in animals of over 300g body wt. showed the presence of high-specific-radioactivity DNA in released core particles and mononucleosomes compared with DNA retained in the nuclear pellets. Mononucleosomes from rat livers in S-phase with new, [(3)H]lysine-containing histones, had higher (32)P incorporation in histones H1 and their core histones, than for di- or tri-nucleosomes. Thermal-denaturation properties of control and phosphorylated mononucleosomes and core particles were very similar; removal of histone H1 and non-histone chromosomal proteins in 0.5m-NaCl markedly increased the proportion of DNA ;melting' below 70 degrees C.", "PMID": 435276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2646", "title": "Membranes and bile formation. Composition of several mammalian biles and their membrane-damaging properties.", "content": "The total content and profile of bile salts and phospholipids are reported for several mammalian biles. Rabbit and guinea-pig biles are characterized by high proportions of conjugated dihydroxy bile salts with respect to trihydroxy bile salts, but contain relatively little phospholipid. Both rabbit and guinea-pig biles exhibit little evidence of hepatic cell damage, even though they are able to cause membrane damage (as evidenced by lysis of human erythrocytes) at low (2--3 mM) concentrations of bile salts; this lytic behaviour is also a property of their predominant bile salts. Addition of phosphatidylcholine to the bile or bile salt is able to decrease the lytic behaviour. Perhaps the most significant observation is that these biles, and their predominant bile salts, are dramatically less lytic towards sheep erythrocytes, indicating that some factor(s) in membrane composition and structure may partly explain the resistance of membranes of the biliary tract to the presence of high concentrations of potentially membrane-damaging bile salts.", "contents": "Membranes and bile formation. Composition of several mammalian biles and their membrane-damaging properties. The total content and profile of bile salts and phospholipids are reported for several mammalian biles. Rabbit and guinea-pig biles are characterized by high proportions of conjugated dihydroxy bile salts with respect to trihydroxy bile salts, but contain relatively little phospholipid. Both rabbit and guinea-pig biles exhibit little evidence of hepatic cell damage, even though they are able to cause membrane damage (as evidenced by lysis of human erythrocytes) at low (2--3 mM) concentrations of bile salts; this lytic behaviour is also a property of their predominant bile salts. Addition of phosphatidylcholine to the bile or bile salt is able to decrease the lytic behaviour. Perhaps the most significant observation is that these biles, and their predominant bile salts, are dramatically less lytic towards sheep erythrocytes, indicating that some factor(s) in membrane composition and structure may partly explain the resistance of membranes of the biliary tract to the presence of high concentrations of potentially membrane-damaging bile salts.", "PMID": 435277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2647", "title": "Changes in the contents of adenine nucleotides and intermediates of glycolysis and the citric acid cycle in flight muscle of the locust upon flight and their relationship to the control of the cycle.", "content": "1. The contents of some intermediates of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle and adenine nucleotides have been measured in the freeze-clamped locust flight muscle at rest and after 10s and 3min flight. The contents of glucose 6-phosphate, pyruvate, alanine and especially fructose bisphosphate and triose phosphates increased markedly upon flight. The content of acetyl-CoA is decreased after 3min flight whereas that of acetylcarnitine is decreased markedly after 10s flight, but returns towards the resting value after 3min flight. The content of citrate is markedly decreased after both 10s and 3min flight, whereas that of isocitrate is changed very little after 10s and is increased by 50% after 3min. The content of oxaloacetate is very low in insect flight muscle and hence it was measured by a sensitive radiochemical assay. The content of oxaloacetate increased about 2-fold after 3min flight. A similar change was observed in the content of malate. The content of ATP decreased about 15%, whereas those of ADP and AMP increased about 2-fold after 3min flight. 2. Calculations based on O(2) uptake of the intact insect indicate that the rate of the citric acid cycle must be increased >100-fold during flight. Consequently, if citrate synthase catalyses a non-equilibrium reaction, the activity of the enzyme must increase >100-fold during flight. However, changes in the concentrations of possible regulators of citrate synthase, oxaloacetate, acetyl-CoA and citrate (which is an allosteric inhibitor), are not sufficient to account for this change in activity. It is concluded that there may be much larger changes in the free concentration of oxaloacetate than are indicated by the changes in the total content of this metabolite or that other unknown factors must play an additional role in the regulation of citrate synthase activity. 3. The increased content of oxaloacetate could be produced via pyruvate carboxylase, which may be stimulated during the early stages of flight by the increased concentration of pyruvate. 4. The decreases in the concentrations of citrate and alpha-oxoglutarate indicate that isocitrate dehydrogenase and oxoglutarate dehydrogenase may be stimulated by factors other than their pathway substrates during the early stages of flight. 5. Calculated mitochondrial and cytosolic NAD(+)/NADH ratios are both increased upon flight. The change in the mitochondrial ratio indicates the importance of the intramitochondrial ATP/ADP concentration ratio in the regulation of the rate of electron transfer in this muscle.", "contents": "Changes in the contents of adenine nucleotides and intermediates of glycolysis and the citric acid cycle in flight muscle of the locust upon flight and their relationship to the control of the cycle. 1. The contents of some intermediates of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle and adenine nucleotides have been measured in the freeze-clamped locust flight muscle at rest and after 10s and 3min flight. The contents of glucose 6-phosphate, pyruvate, alanine and especially fructose bisphosphate and triose phosphates increased markedly upon flight. The content of acetyl-CoA is decreased after 3min flight whereas that of acetylcarnitine is decreased markedly after 10s flight, but returns towards the resting value after 3min flight. The content of citrate is markedly decreased after both 10s and 3min flight, whereas that of isocitrate is changed very little after 10s and is increased by 50% after 3min. The content of oxaloacetate is very low in insect flight muscle and hence it was measured by a sensitive radiochemical assay. The content of oxaloacetate increased about 2-fold after 3min flight. A similar change was observed in the content of malate. The content of ATP decreased about 15%, whereas those of ADP and AMP increased about 2-fold after 3min flight. 2. Calculations based on O(2) uptake of the intact insect indicate that the rate of the citric acid cycle must be increased >100-fold during flight. Consequently, if citrate synthase catalyses a non-equilibrium reaction, the activity of the enzyme must increase >100-fold during flight. However, changes in the concentrations of possible regulators of citrate synthase, oxaloacetate, acetyl-CoA and citrate (which is an allosteric inhibitor), are not sufficient to account for this change in activity. It is concluded that there may be much larger changes in the free concentration of oxaloacetate than are indicated by the changes in the total content of this metabolite or that other unknown factors must play an additional role in the regulation of citrate synthase activity. 3. The increased content of oxaloacetate could be produced via pyruvate carboxylase, which may be stimulated during the early stages of flight by the increased concentration of pyruvate. 4. The decreases in the concentrations of citrate and alpha-oxoglutarate indicate that isocitrate dehydrogenase and oxoglutarate dehydrogenase may be stimulated by factors other than their pathway substrates during the early stages of flight. 5. Calculated mitochondrial and cytosolic NAD(+)/NADH ratios are both increased upon flight. The change in the mitochondrial ratio indicates the importance of the intramitochondrial ATP/ADP concentration ratio in the regulation of the rate of electron transfer in this muscle.", "PMID": 435278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2648", "title": "Lysophosphatidylcholines can modulate the activity of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase from rat liver plasma membranes.", "content": "1. Synthetic lysophosphatidylcholines inhibit the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of rat liver plasma membranes at concentrations two to five times lower than those needed to inhibit the fluoride-stimulated activity. 2. Specific 125I-labelled glucagon binding to hormone receptors is inhibited at concentrations similar to those inhibiting the fluoride-stimulated activity. 3. At concentrations of lysophosphatidylcholines immediately below those causing inhibition, an activation of adenylate cyclase activity or hormone binding was observed. 4 These effects are essentially reversible. 5. We conclude that the increased sensitivity of glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase to inhibition may be due to the lysophosphatidylcholines interfering with the physical coupling between the hormone receptor and catalytic unit of adenylate cyclase. 6. We suggest that, in vivo, it is possible that lysophosphatidylcholines may modulate the activity of adenylate cyclase only when it is in the hormone-stimulated state.", "contents": "Lysophosphatidylcholines can modulate the activity of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase from rat liver plasma membranes. 1. Synthetic lysophosphatidylcholines inhibit the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of rat liver plasma membranes at concentrations two to five times lower than those needed to inhibit the fluoride-stimulated activity. 2. Specific 125I-labelled glucagon binding to hormone receptors is inhibited at concentrations similar to those inhibiting the fluoride-stimulated activity. 3. At concentrations of lysophosphatidylcholines immediately below those causing inhibition, an activation of adenylate cyclase activity or hormone binding was observed. 4 These effects are essentially reversible. 5. We conclude that the increased sensitivity of glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase to inhibition may be due to the lysophosphatidylcholines interfering with the physical coupling between the hormone receptor and catalytic unit of adenylate cyclase. 6. We suggest that, in vivo, it is possible that lysophosphatidylcholines may modulate the activity of adenylate cyclase only when it is in the hormone-stimulated state.", "PMID": 435279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2649", "title": "Fungal metabolism of biphenyl.", "content": "Cunninghamella elegans grown on Sabouraud dextrose broth transformed biphenyl to produce 2-, 3- and 4-hydroxybiphenyl, as well as 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl as free phenols. A compound tentatively identified as 2,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl was also produced. When 4-hydroxybiphenyl or 2-hydroxybiphenyl replaced biphenyl as the substrate, C. elegans produced 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl and 2,5-dihydroxybiphenyl respectively. The compound identified as 2,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl was produced from both substrates. A survey of 11 species of fungi known to degrade hydrocarbons revealed two species that were comparable to C. elegans in their ability to convert biphenyl into free phenols. In addition to free phenolic metabolites, deconjugation experiments indicated that 44% of the known metabolites present in the culture filtrate were present in the form of conjugates. These results suggest that the transformation of biphenyl by C. elegans is similar to that found in mammalian systems.", "contents": "Fungal metabolism of biphenyl. Cunninghamella elegans grown on Sabouraud dextrose broth transformed biphenyl to produce 2-, 3- and 4-hydroxybiphenyl, as well as 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl as free phenols. A compound tentatively identified as 2,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl was also produced. When 4-hydroxybiphenyl or 2-hydroxybiphenyl replaced biphenyl as the substrate, C. elegans produced 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl and 2,5-dihydroxybiphenyl respectively. The compound identified as 2,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl was produced from both substrates. A survey of 11 species of fungi known to degrade hydrocarbons revealed two species that were comparable to C. elegans in their ability to convert biphenyl into free phenols. In addition to free phenolic metabolites, deconjugation experiments indicated that 44% of the known metabolites present in the culture filtrate were present in the form of conjugates. These results suggest that the transformation of biphenyl by C. elegans is similar to that found in mammalian systems.", "PMID": 435280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2650", "title": "Participation of quinone and cytochrome b in tetrathionate reductase respiratory chain of Citrobacter freundii.", "content": "Formate dehydrogenase, NADH dehydrogenase, a quinone and a b-type cytochrome characterized by maxima at 429 and 560 nm are shown to participate in the tetrathionate redox chain of Citrobacter.", "contents": "Participation of quinone and cytochrome b in tetrathionate reductase respiratory chain of Citrobacter freundii. Formate dehydrogenase, NADH dehydrogenase, a quinone and a b-type cytochrome characterized by maxima at 429 and 560 nm are shown to participate in the tetrathionate redox chain of Citrobacter.", "PMID": 435281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2651", "title": "Ca2+-stimulated ribonuclease. A new marker enzyme of differentiated rat mammary tissues.", "content": "A unique ribonuclease, active only in the presence of Ca2+, was present in lactating mammary gland and milk of the rat. This enzyme was absent from virgin-rat mammary gland and non-mammary tissues of lactating rats. The presence of moderate activity in differentiated mammary tumours, together with an increase in activity in normal tissue parelleling development of mammary function, identify this enzyme as a marker of mammary differentiation in the rat.", "contents": "Ca2+-stimulated ribonuclease. A new marker enzyme of differentiated rat mammary tissues. A unique ribonuclease, active only in the presence of Ca2+, was present in lactating mammary gland and milk of the rat. This enzyme was absent from virgin-rat mammary gland and non-mammary tissues of lactating rats. The presence of moderate activity in differentiated mammary tumours, together with an increase in activity in normal tissue parelleling development of mammary function, identify this enzyme as a marker of mammary differentiation in the rat.", "PMID": 435282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2652", "title": "Adenosine, thyroid status and regulation of lipolysis.", "content": "Adipocytes from hypothyroid rats do not respond to adrenaline with increased glycerol release. Adenosine deaminase largely restores lipolytic sensitivity. This effect is reversed by 2-deoxycoformycin, an inhibitor of the enzyme, and by N6-(phenylisopropyl)adenosine, which is not deaminated. Lipolytic response of normal cells to adrenaline is only 50% inhibited by phenylisopropyladenosine, whereas in cells from hypothyroid rats blockage is total. Inhibition of 50% was seen at 100 and 1 nM concentrations respectively. Insensitivity to adrenaline of hypothyroid-rat adipocytes can, at least partly, be explained by increased sensitivity to adenosine.", "contents": "Adenosine, thyroid status and regulation of lipolysis. Adipocytes from hypothyroid rats do not respond to adrenaline with increased glycerol release. Adenosine deaminase largely restores lipolytic sensitivity. This effect is reversed by 2-deoxycoformycin, an inhibitor of the enzyme, and by N6-(phenylisopropyl)adenosine, which is not deaminated. Lipolytic response of normal cells to adrenaline is only 50% inhibited by phenylisopropyladenosine, whereas in cells from hypothyroid rats blockage is total. Inhibition of 50% was seen at 100 and 1 nM concentrations respectively. Insensitivity to adrenaline of hypothyroid-rat adipocytes can, at least partly, be explained by increased sensitivity to adenosine.", "PMID": 435283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2653", "title": "L-proline transport by newborn rat kidney brush-border membrane vesicles.", "content": "The transport of L-proline was studied in brush-border membrane vesicles isolated from the kidneys of newborn rats. In contrast with the rapid initial uptake with an 'overshoot' observed in adult vesicles, uptake by the newborn vesicle was slow, showed no 'overshoot', and proline continued to accumulate at a time when the adult vesicle had already equilibrated. L-Proline transport in the newborn rat occurs by Na+-dependent and independent mechanisms. There appeared to be essentially no uptake by anti-luminal vesicles isolated from newborn rat kidney. These observations may help to explain the prolinuria that occurs in the newborn animal.", "contents": "L-proline transport by newborn rat kidney brush-border membrane vesicles. The transport of L-proline was studied in brush-border membrane vesicles isolated from the kidneys of newborn rats. In contrast with the rapid initial uptake with an 'overshoot' observed in adult vesicles, uptake by the newborn vesicle was slow, showed no 'overshoot', and proline continued to accumulate at a time when the adult vesicle had already equilibrated. L-Proline transport in the newborn rat occurs by Na+-dependent and independent mechanisms. There appeared to be essentially no uptake by anti-luminal vesicles isolated from newborn rat kidney. These observations may help to explain the prolinuria that occurs in the newborn animal.", "PMID": 435284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2654", "title": "Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol synthesis and the inactivation of calcium entry after prolonged exposure of the blowfly salivary gland to 5-hydroxytryptamine.", "content": "The incorporation of [32P]Pi into all salivary-gland phospholipids except phosphatidic acid was inhibited by 5-hydroxytryptamine. The accumulation of [32P]Pi into phosphatidic acid was actually enhanced by 5-hydroxytryptamine. There was an inhibition of labelled inositol incorporation into phosphatidylinositol by 5-hydroxytryptamine, which seems to be mediated by calcium because it was mimicked by the ionophore A23187, but was prevented if glands were stimulated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the absence of external calcium. Inhibition of synthesis together with stimulation of breakdown will decrease the concentration of phosphatidylinositol, which could account for the inactivation of calcium transport observed at high 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations. When salivary glands were stimulated with 1 micrometer-5-hydroxytryptamine, there was a rapid increase in the transfer of 45Ca2+ from the medium into the saliva, but with time this transport declined to a low value. If the glands were washed free of 5-hydroxytryptamine and incubated in the presence of 2mM-inositol for 1 h, the increase in calcium transport caused by 5-hydroxytryptamine was restored. There was little recovery in the absence of inositol. If glands were stimulated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the absence of external calcium, a condition which prevents the inhibition of phosphatidylinositol synthesis, calcium transport in response to 5-hydroxytryptamine was greater than in glands preincubated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the presence of calcium. The inactivation of calcium transport may result from a decrease in phosphatidylinositol concentration. These results support the hypothesis that the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol plays some role in either the opening or closing of calcium 'gates'.", "contents": "Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol synthesis and the inactivation of calcium entry after prolonged exposure of the blowfly salivary gland to 5-hydroxytryptamine. The incorporation of [32P]Pi into all salivary-gland phospholipids except phosphatidic acid was inhibited by 5-hydroxytryptamine. The accumulation of [32P]Pi into phosphatidic acid was actually enhanced by 5-hydroxytryptamine. There was an inhibition of labelled inositol incorporation into phosphatidylinositol by 5-hydroxytryptamine, which seems to be mediated by calcium because it was mimicked by the ionophore A23187, but was prevented if glands were stimulated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the absence of external calcium. Inhibition of synthesis together with stimulation of breakdown will decrease the concentration of phosphatidylinositol, which could account for the inactivation of calcium transport observed at high 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations. When salivary glands were stimulated with 1 micrometer-5-hydroxytryptamine, there was a rapid increase in the transfer of 45Ca2+ from the medium into the saliva, but with time this transport declined to a low value. If the glands were washed free of 5-hydroxytryptamine and incubated in the presence of 2mM-inositol for 1 h, the increase in calcium transport caused by 5-hydroxytryptamine was restored. There was little recovery in the absence of inositol. If glands were stimulated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the absence of external calcium, a condition which prevents the inhibition of phosphatidylinositol synthesis, calcium transport in response to 5-hydroxytryptamine was greater than in glands preincubated with 5-hydroxytryptamine in the presence of calcium. The inactivation of calcium transport may result from a decrease in phosphatidylinositol concentration. These results support the hypothesis that the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol plays some role in either the opening or closing of calcium 'gates'.", "PMID": 435285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2655", "title": "Nuclear and cytosolic distribution of conjugated cholic acid and radiolabelled glycocholic acid in rat liver.", "content": "1. Normally fed and cholestyramine-treated rats were injected through the superior mesenteric vein with different amounts of radiolabelled glycoholic acid and the appearance of radioactivity in bile was measured. 2. In normally fed rats radioactivity appeared in bile within 30 s of injection and reached a maximum after 2 1/2 min; in the cholestyramine-treated animals the appearance of radioactivity was slower and less of the injected material was excreted into bile. 3. At 10 min after injection, livers were removed and the amounts of radioactive glycoholic acid and endogenous cholic acid conjugates in nuclei and cytosol were determined; most of the bile acid was found in the cytosol, only small amounts being found in nuclei. 4. Nuclear preparations from both normally fed and cholestyramine-fed rats were extracted with KCl (0.4 M) in an attempt to identify a putative bile acid receptor, but no such receptor was found. 5. Regulation of bile acid synthesis does not involve nuclear binding of bile acids.", "contents": "Nuclear and cytosolic distribution of conjugated cholic acid and radiolabelled glycocholic acid in rat liver. 1. Normally fed and cholestyramine-treated rats were injected through the superior mesenteric vein with different amounts of radiolabelled glycoholic acid and the appearance of radioactivity in bile was measured. 2. In normally fed rats radioactivity appeared in bile within 30 s of injection and reached a maximum after 2 1/2 min; in the cholestyramine-treated animals the appearance of radioactivity was slower and less of the injected material was excreted into bile. 3. At 10 min after injection, livers were removed and the amounts of radioactive glycoholic acid and endogenous cholic acid conjugates in nuclei and cytosol were determined; most of the bile acid was found in the cytosol, only small amounts being found in nuclei. 4. Nuclear preparations from both normally fed and cholestyramine-fed rats were extracted with KCl (0.4 M) in an attempt to identify a putative bile acid receptor, but no such receptor was found. 5. Regulation of bile acid synthesis does not involve nuclear binding of bile acids.", "PMID": 435286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2656", "title": "Isolation of lysosomes from brain tissue. A separation method by means of alteration of mitochondrial and synaptosomal sedimentation properties.", "content": "1. A crude mitochondrial-lysosomal preparation from brain tissue was layered on a sucrose gradient containing 20mm-succinate, 10mm-Tris and 1mm-disodium EDTA at pH7.4. The lysosomes were separated from the mitochondria and synaptosomes by means of a twosteps centrifugation procedure. In a first low-speed step (40min at 5300g at 15 degrees C) the sedimentation rate of mitochondria and mitochondria-containing synaptosomes was enlarged due to passage of these subcellular structures through the sucrose gradient with the above-mentioned chemicals (called ;chemical field'). That part of the gradient which contained the mitochondria and synaptosomes was removed and substituted by a gradient suitable for isopycnic isolation of lysosomes in a second centrifugation step. The achieved purification for bovine brain lysosomes was 5-8-fold, for rat brain lysosomes 7-10-fold, over the homogenate. 2. The enlargement of the sedimentation rate of mitochondria and synaptosomes was brought about by the presence of succinate, but also by one of the following salts in the chemical field: malonate, fumarate, pyruvate, phosphate and chloride. 3. Comparison of the chemical-field method with other methods for the isolation of lysosomes showed that (a) with the chemical-field method a 2-3-times higher purification of the rat and bovine brain lysosomal fraction can be achieved than with the procedure described by Koenig, Gaines, McDonald, Gray & Scott [(1964) J. Neurochem.11, 729-743], and that (b) similar purification results for rat liver lysosomes were obtained when the chemical-field method and the procedure described by van Dijk, Roholl, Reijngoud & Tager [(1976) FEBS Lett.62, 177-181] were compared.", "contents": "Isolation of lysosomes from brain tissue. A separation method by means of alteration of mitochondrial and synaptosomal sedimentation properties. 1. A crude mitochondrial-lysosomal preparation from brain tissue was layered on a sucrose gradient containing 20mm-succinate, 10mm-Tris and 1mm-disodium EDTA at pH7.4. The lysosomes were separated from the mitochondria and synaptosomes by means of a twosteps centrifugation procedure. In a first low-speed step (40min at 5300g at 15 degrees C) the sedimentation rate of mitochondria and mitochondria-containing synaptosomes was enlarged due to passage of these subcellular structures through the sucrose gradient with the above-mentioned chemicals (called ;chemical field'). That part of the gradient which contained the mitochondria and synaptosomes was removed and substituted by a gradient suitable for isopycnic isolation of lysosomes in a second centrifugation step. The achieved purification for bovine brain lysosomes was 5-8-fold, for rat brain lysosomes 7-10-fold, over the homogenate. 2. The enlargement of the sedimentation rate of mitochondria and synaptosomes was brought about by the presence of succinate, but also by one of the following salts in the chemical field: malonate, fumarate, pyruvate, phosphate and chloride. 3. Comparison of the chemical-field method with other methods for the isolation of lysosomes showed that (a) with the chemical-field method a 2-3-times higher purification of the rat and bovine brain lysosomal fraction can be achieved than with the procedure described by Koenig, Gaines, McDonald, Gray & Scott [(1964) J. Neurochem.11, 729-743], and that (b) similar purification results for rat liver lysosomes were obtained when the chemical-field method and the procedure described by van Dijk, Roholl, Reijngoud & Tager [(1976) FEBS Lett.62, 177-181] were compared.", "PMID": 435287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2657", "title": "The distribution of enzyme and isoenzyme activities between parenchymal and haematopoietic cells in the liver of the foetal guinea pig.", "content": "The hepatocyte and haematopoietic cell contents of the liver of the foetal guinea pig were measured over the latter half of gestation. Hepatocytes represented about 30% of liver volume at mid-gestation and this increased to 70-80% by term; cell volume remained fairly constant until 5-7 days before term, then more than doubled. Haematopoietic cells represented about 5% of liver volume at mid-gestation and this progressively fell to <1% by term. At 75% of gestation hepatocytes and haematopoietic cells were prepared from perfused foetal livers by collagenase digestion. Enzyme activity of the hepatocyte was, without exception, similar to that of the whole liver. In general, enzyme activity in the haematopoietic cells was similar to that in erythrocytes, with relatively low values for aldolase, glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate mutase, enolase, lactate dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, ;malic' enzyme, glutamate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase. The haematopoietic cell contribution to total enzyme activity in the foetal liver was usually much less than 10% and could thus not account for the major changes in hepatic enzyme activity over the latter half of gestation. Hepatocytes contained hexokinase isoenzymes I and III, aldolase isoenzymes A and B and pyruvate kinase isoenzymes 1, 2 and 4. The haematopoietic cells contained hexokinase isoenzyme I and two additional bands of activity with slightly greater mobility, aldolase isoenzyme A and pyruvate kinase isoenzymes 2 and 4.", "contents": "The distribution of enzyme and isoenzyme activities between parenchymal and haematopoietic cells in the liver of the foetal guinea pig. The hepatocyte and haematopoietic cell contents of the liver of the foetal guinea pig were measured over the latter half of gestation. Hepatocytes represented about 30% of liver volume at mid-gestation and this increased to 70-80% by term; cell volume remained fairly constant until 5-7 days before term, then more than doubled. Haematopoietic cells represented about 5% of liver volume at mid-gestation and this progressively fell to <1% by term. At 75% of gestation hepatocytes and haematopoietic cells were prepared from perfused foetal livers by collagenase digestion. Enzyme activity of the hepatocyte was, without exception, similar to that of the whole liver. In general, enzyme activity in the haematopoietic cells was similar to that in erythrocytes, with relatively low values for aldolase, glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate mutase, enolase, lactate dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, ;malic' enzyme, glutamate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase. The haematopoietic cell contribution to total enzyme activity in the foetal liver was usually much less than 10% and could thus not account for the major changes in hepatic enzyme activity over the latter half of gestation. Hepatocytes contained hexokinase isoenzymes I and III, aldolase isoenzymes A and B and pyruvate kinase isoenzymes 1, 2 and 4. The haematopoietic cells contained hexokinase isoenzyme I and two additional bands of activity with slightly greater mobility, aldolase isoenzyme A and pyruvate kinase isoenzymes 2 and 4.", "PMID": 435288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2658", "title": "The effects of barbiturates on the metabolism of phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylinositol in rat brain synaptosomes.", "content": "Barbiturates and diphenylhydantoin inhibit the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase in 32P incorporation into phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidic acid, but have a relatively slight effect on the incorporation of 32P into these lipids in the absence of carbamoylcholine and no effect on 32P incorporation into phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Inhibition of the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase was observed for pentobarbital, thiopental, phenobarbital, 5-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-5-ethylbarbiturate, (+)- and (-)-5-ethyl-N-methyl-5-propylbarbituate and diphenylhydantoin. Similar concentrations of barbiturates and diphenylhydantoin were previously reported to inhibit the K+-stimulated Ca2+ influx, and therefore other agents that affect Ca2+ influx were tested to find whether they had any effect on 32P incorporation into these lipids. K+ (35 mM) increases 32P incorporation into phosphatidic acid, but to a smaller degree than 100 micrometer-carbamoylcholine, and its effect was inhibited by pentobarbital. Veratridine (75 micrometer) does not increase 32P incorporation into either phosphatidic acid or phosphatidylinositol, but did inhibit the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase in 32P incorporation into phosphatidylinositol. The possible relationship between the phospholipid effect and stimulated Ca2+ influx is discussed.", "contents": "The effects of barbiturates on the metabolism of phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylinositol in rat brain synaptosomes. Barbiturates and diphenylhydantoin inhibit the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase in 32P incorporation into phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidic acid, but have a relatively slight effect on the incorporation of 32P into these lipids in the absence of carbamoylcholine and no effect on 32P incorporation into phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Inhibition of the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase was observed for pentobarbital, thiopental, phenobarbital, 5-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-5-ethylbarbiturate, (+)- and (-)-5-ethyl-N-methyl-5-propylbarbituate and diphenylhydantoin. Similar concentrations of barbiturates and diphenylhydantoin were previously reported to inhibit the K+-stimulated Ca2+ influx, and therefore other agents that affect Ca2+ influx were tested to find whether they had any effect on 32P incorporation into these lipids. K+ (35 mM) increases 32P incorporation into phosphatidic acid, but to a smaller degree than 100 micrometer-carbamoylcholine, and its effect was inhibited by pentobarbital. Veratridine (75 micrometer) does not increase 32P incorporation into either phosphatidic acid or phosphatidylinositol, but did inhibit the carbamoylcholine-stimulated increase in 32P incorporation into phosphatidylinositol. The possible relationship between the phospholipid effect and stimulated Ca2+ influx is discussed.", "PMID": 435289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2659", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic separation and identification of epimeric 17-ketone impurities in commercial sample of dexamethasone sodium phosphate.", "content": "A commercial sample of dexamethasone sodium phosphate solution for injection was found to contain 56% of the label concentration and to be extensively contaminated (approximately 50%) with a white insoluble solid, which was identified as a mixture of the 16 alpha- and 16 beta-methyl epimers of 9-fluoro-11 beta-hydroxy-16-methylandrosta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to separate, identify, and quantitate these epimers and to determine their presence in commercial samples. One epimer was identified by HPLC comparison with a synthesized specimen of 9-fluoro-11 beta-hydroxy-16 alpha-methylan-drosta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione. The second peak was identified as the 16 beta-epimer by epimerization of the synthesized alpha-component with alkali to obtain a product whose chromatogram matched that of the impurity. These conclusions are supported by data obtained by IR and UV spectrophotometry, TLC, and the blue tetrazolium test.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic separation and identification of epimeric 17-ketone impurities in commercial sample of dexamethasone sodium phosphate. A commercial sample of dexamethasone sodium phosphate solution for injection was found to contain 56% of the label concentration and to be extensively contaminated (approximately 50%) with a white insoluble solid, which was identified as a mixture of the 16 alpha- and 16 beta-methyl epimers of 9-fluoro-11 beta-hydroxy-16-methylandrosta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to separate, identify, and quantitate these epimers and to determine their presence in commercial samples. One epimer was identified by HPLC comparison with a synthesized specimen of 9-fluoro-11 beta-hydroxy-16 alpha-methylan-drosta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione. The second peak was identified as the 16 beta-epimer by epimerization of the synthesized alpha-component with alkali to obtain a product whose chromatogram matched that of the impurity. These conclusions are supported by data obtained by IR and UV spectrophotometry, TLC, and the blue tetrazolium test.", "PMID": 435334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2660", "title": "Decreased tetracycline bioavailability caused by a bismuth subsalicylate antidiarrheal mixture.", "content": "Oral coadministration of a single 250-mg tetracycline capsule and 60 ml of a bismuth subsalicylate antidiarrheal mixture reduced tetracycline absorption by 34% without appearing to perturb its absorption or disposition rate. A pronounced increase in intersubject tetracycline absorption variability also was noted. Apparently, the reduction in tetracycline bioavailability previously reported with a kaolin-pectin suspension is not peculiar to kaolin-pectin but can be expected with almost any antidiarrheal whose mechanism of action is adsorptive in nature.", "contents": "Decreased tetracycline bioavailability caused by a bismuth subsalicylate antidiarrheal mixture. Oral coadministration of a single 250-mg tetracycline capsule and 60 ml of a bismuth subsalicylate antidiarrheal mixture reduced tetracycline absorption by 34% without appearing to perturb its absorption or disposition rate. A pronounced increase in intersubject tetracycline absorption variability also was noted. Apparently, the reduction in tetracycline bioavailability previously reported with a kaolin-pectin suspension is not peculiar to kaolin-pectin but can be expected with almost any antidiarrheal whose mechanism of action is adsorptive in nature.", "PMID": 435335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2661", "title": "Effect of phosphorus depletion on intestinal calcium and phosphorus absorption.", "content": "Intestinal calcium (Ca) hyperabsorption is a well-documented feature of experimental phosphorus depletion (PD). To further evaluate the effect of PD on Ca absorption we studied metabolic balance and in vitro everted duodenal sac uptake of Ca and phosphorus (P) in weanling male rats. Animals were assigned to three dietary groups: normal, 0.3% P ad libitum (NP); low, 0.03% P ad libitum (LP); and normal, 0.3% P but pair-fed with assigned LP mates (NP-PF). Results indicate that although PD led to an early but unsustained increase in 45Ca uptake by the everted duodenal sac in vitro, net intestinal Ca retention is consistently decreased in rats on the LP diet compared with rats eating either the NP or NP-PF diet. The reduction in net intestinal Ca absorption is reflected by an increase in fecal Ca, both in absolute quantities and in proportion to dietary Ca intake. The initial negative P balance after the initiation of the LP diet was promptly, albeit precariously, corrected. This was associated with a sustained increase in duodenal 32P uptake in vitro and virtual cessation of growth. Because the biosynthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and its accumulation in intestinal mucosa have been reported to increase with PD, our study represents an example in which the physiological interrelationship between the activity of 1,25(OH)2D3 and intestinal Ca absorption may be dissociated.", "contents": "Effect of phosphorus depletion on intestinal calcium and phosphorus absorption. Intestinal calcium (Ca) hyperabsorption is a well-documented feature of experimental phosphorus depletion (PD). To further evaluate the effect of PD on Ca absorption we studied metabolic balance and in vitro everted duodenal sac uptake of Ca and phosphorus (P) in weanling male rats. Animals were assigned to three dietary groups: normal, 0.3% P ad libitum (NP); low, 0.03% P ad libitum (LP); and normal, 0.3% P but pair-fed with assigned LP mates (NP-PF). Results indicate that although PD led to an early but unsustained increase in 45Ca uptake by the everted duodenal sac in vitro, net intestinal Ca retention is consistently decreased in rats on the LP diet compared with rats eating either the NP or NP-PF diet. The reduction in net intestinal Ca absorption is reflected by an increase in fecal Ca, both in absolute quantities and in proportion to dietary Ca intake. The initial negative P balance after the initiation of the LP diet was promptly, albeit precariously, corrected. This was associated with a sustained increase in duodenal 32P uptake in vitro and virtual cessation of growth. Because the biosynthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and its accumulation in intestinal mucosa have been reported to increase with PD, our study represents an example in which the physiological interrelationship between the activity of 1,25(OH)2D3 and intestinal Ca absorption may be dissociated.", "PMID": 435336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2662", "title": "Identification of susceptibility to malignant hyperpyrexia in swine.", "content": "In vitro muscle contracture responses in swine susceptible to malignant hyperpyrexia (MH) were similar to those found in muscle from humans susceptible to this anaesthetic complication, confirming the suitability of the pig as an animal model for studying MH. The results suggest that there are different degrees of susceptibility to MH. Whichever drug was used, there was some overlap in the contracture responses between susceptible animals and controls, suggesting that the most accurate way of identifying susceptibility to MH is to use a variety of chemical agents, the best of which seem to be halothane, caffeine, suxamethonium and potassium chloride. Thymol, which is used as a preservative in commercial preparations of halothane, potentiates halothane contractures, but it is not known if this is significant clinically.", "contents": "Identification of susceptibility to malignant hyperpyrexia in swine. In vitro muscle contracture responses in swine susceptible to malignant hyperpyrexia (MH) were similar to those found in muscle from humans susceptible to this anaesthetic complication, confirming the suitability of the pig as an animal model for studying MH. The results suggest that there are different degrees of susceptibility to MH. Whichever drug was used, there was some overlap in the contracture responses between susceptible animals and controls, suggesting that the most accurate way of identifying susceptibility to MH is to use a variety of chemical agents, the best of which seem to be halothane, caffeine, suxamethonium and potassium chloride. Thymol, which is used as a preservative in commercial preparations of halothane, potentiates halothane contractures, but it is not known if this is significant clinically.", "PMID": 435338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2663", "title": "Threshold concentration of nitrous oxide affecting psychomotor performance.", "content": "Using audiovisual reaction times, no effects were found in 12 subjects exposed to 1, 2, 4, or 8% nitrous oxide. In subsequent studies on 30 subjects, a positive effect on performance was found at a concentration of between 8 and 12% nitrous oxide. In addition, there was no difference in mean reaction time in 12 subjects exposed to air or 8% nitrous oxide. It is concluded that the threshold concentration of nitrous oxide for an effect on psychomotor performance as assessed by choice reaction times probably lies between 8 and 12%.", "contents": "Threshold concentration of nitrous oxide affecting psychomotor performance. Using audiovisual reaction times, no effects were found in 12 subjects exposed to 1, 2, 4, or 8% nitrous oxide. In subsequent studies on 30 subjects, a positive effect on performance was found at a concentration of between 8 and 12% nitrous oxide. In addition, there was no difference in mean reaction time in 12 subjects exposed to air or 8% nitrous oxide. It is concluded that the threshold concentration of nitrous oxide for an effect on psychomotor performance as assessed by choice reaction times probably lies between 8 and 12%.", "PMID": 435339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2664", "title": "In vitro interaction of propanidid and suxamethonium with pooled human plasma cholinesterase. A kinetic study.", "content": "Human plasma cholinesterase (E.C. 3.1.1.8) was shown to be inhibited by physiological concentrations of propanidid and suxamethonium using a colourimetric assay at 25 degrees C and pH 7.2 unit with butyrylthiocholine as substrate. Propanidid inhibited the enzyme in a non-competitive manner (I50 = 2.0 mmol litre-1; apparent Km = 6.6 X 10(-4) mol litre-1) as did suxamethonium (I50 = 4.4 mmol litre-1; apparent Km = 1.6 X 10(-4) mol litre-1). Combined inhibition produced Km 3.0 X 10(-3) mol litre-1. The binding of these drugs to specific anionic sites in the vicinity of the active centre is thought to result in stereochemical changes in the enzyme. This mechanism and its relevance to the augmentation of the neuromuscular blockade produced by suxamethonium in the presence of propanidid is discussed.", "contents": "In vitro interaction of propanidid and suxamethonium with pooled human plasma cholinesterase. A kinetic study. Human plasma cholinesterase (E.C. 3.1.1.8) was shown to be inhibited by physiological concentrations of propanidid and suxamethonium using a colourimetric assay at 25 degrees C and pH 7.2 unit with butyrylthiocholine as substrate. Propanidid inhibited the enzyme in a non-competitive manner (I50 = 2.0 mmol litre-1; apparent Km = 6.6 X 10(-4) mol litre-1) as did suxamethonium (I50 = 4.4 mmol litre-1; apparent Km = 1.6 X 10(-4) mol litre-1). Combined inhibition produced Km 3.0 X 10(-3) mol litre-1. The binding of these drugs to specific anionic sites in the vicinity of the active centre is thought to result in stereochemical changes in the enzyme. This mechanism and its relevance to the augmentation of the neuromuscular blockade produced by suxamethonium in the presence of propanidid is discussed.", "PMID": 435340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2665", "title": "Failure of clinical concentrations of halothane to block adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation in vitro.", "content": "A dose-related inhibition by halothane of adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation was measured for human platelets in plasma anticoagulated with sodium citrate 6.8 mmol litre-1 or 13.6 mmol litre-1, or heparin 2 u. ml-1 and for platelets separated from plasma by albumin density gradient centrifugation and requiring no anticoagulant. By maintaining exposure and assay temperature at 37 degrees C, maintaining physiological pH, avoiding age-related deterioration and using an atraumatic equilibration method, no inhibition was found at clinical concentrations of halothane and 50% inhibition required greater than halothane 10%. Sodium citrate, a calcium chelating anticoagulant, was found to enhance halothane inhibition.", "contents": "Failure of clinical concentrations of halothane to block adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation in vitro. A dose-related inhibition by halothane of adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation was measured for human platelets in plasma anticoagulated with sodium citrate 6.8 mmol litre-1 or 13.6 mmol litre-1, or heparin 2 u. ml-1 and for platelets separated from plasma by albumin density gradient centrifugation and requiring no anticoagulant. By maintaining exposure and assay temperature at 37 degrees C, maintaining physiological pH, avoiding age-related deterioration and using an atraumatic equilibration method, no inhibition was found at clinical concentrations of halothane and 50% inhibition required greater than halothane 10%. Sodium citrate, a calcium chelating anticoagulant, was found to enhance halothane inhibition.", "PMID": 435341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2666", "title": "Canine coronary blood flow responses to hypoxaemia: the influence of halothane.", "content": "Electromagnetic flow meters were used to measure blood flow in the coronary and pulmonary arteries of six anaesthetized dogs following thoracotomy. Halothane 1% (v/v) caused a reduction in arterial pressure, coronary artery flow, cardiac output and myocardial and total body oxygen consumption and an increase in coronary vascular resistance. Hypoxaemia caused large increases in coronary artery flow during both cardiac systole and diastole, but not until PaO2 was less than 5.3 kPa. This response was not influenced by the presence of halothane. Although myocardial oxygen availability and consumption were maintained during hypoxaemia, total body oxygen availability and consumption were markedly reduced.", "contents": "Canine coronary blood flow responses to hypoxaemia: the influence of halothane. Electromagnetic flow meters were used to measure blood flow in the coronary and pulmonary arteries of six anaesthetized dogs following thoracotomy. Halothane 1% (v/v) caused a reduction in arterial pressure, coronary artery flow, cardiac output and myocardial and total body oxygen consumption and an increase in coronary vascular resistance. Hypoxaemia caused large increases in coronary artery flow during both cardiac systole and diastole, but not until PaO2 was less than 5.3 kPa. This response was not influenced by the presence of halothane. Although myocardial oxygen availability and consumption were maintained during hypoxaemia, total body oxygen availability and consumption were markedly reduced.", "PMID": 435342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2667", "title": "Pulmonary mechanics during general anaesthesia. The influence of mechanical irritation on the airway.", "content": "The changes in pulmonary resistance (RL) and compliance (CL), following airway irritation and surgical stimulation, were investigated in 19 anaesthetized, paralysed patients. Thirteen were normal, while six had objective evidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Broncho-carinal irritation with a suction catheter produced a 27% increase in RL (0.58+/-0.32kPa litre-1 s to 0.74+/-0.40, P less than 0.01) and a 10% decrease in CL (0.87+/-0.19 litre kPa-1 to 0.81+/-0.22, P less than 0.01). These changes were associated with a significant increase in systolic arterial pressure and heart rate during clinical stages of anaesthesia (end-tidal enflurane, 1.3+/-0.4%, PaCO2 5.20+/-0.53 kPa). These changes did not correlate with depth of anaesthesia, but all returned to the pre-irritation value within 5 min. There was no difference in subjects considered normal and those with COPD. Surgical stimulation did not produce significant changes in pulmonary mechanics; however, repeated broncho-carinal irritation during surgery was associated with a transient increase in RL (P less then 0.01).", "contents": "Pulmonary mechanics during general anaesthesia. The influence of mechanical irritation on the airway. The changes in pulmonary resistance (RL) and compliance (CL), following airway irritation and surgical stimulation, were investigated in 19 anaesthetized, paralysed patients. Thirteen were normal, while six had objective evidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Broncho-carinal irritation with a suction catheter produced a 27% increase in RL (0.58+/-0.32kPa litre-1 s to 0.74+/-0.40, P less than 0.01) and a 10% decrease in CL (0.87+/-0.19 litre kPa-1 to 0.81+/-0.22, P less than 0.01). These changes were associated with a significant increase in systolic arterial pressure and heart rate during clinical stages of anaesthesia (end-tidal enflurane, 1.3+/-0.4%, PaCO2 5.20+/-0.53 kPa). These changes did not correlate with depth of anaesthesia, but all returned to the pre-irritation value within 5 min. There was no difference in subjects considered normal and those with COPD. Surgical stimulation did not produce significant changes in pulmonary mechanics; however, repeated broncho-carinal irritation during surgery was associated with a transient increase in RL (P less then 0.01).", "PMID": 435343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2668", "title": "A new method for measuring PCO2 during anaesthesia.", "content": "We have evaluated a new method for measuring the oxygenated mixed venous PCO2 (PVCO2) in patients undergoing general anaesthesia. The lungs were inflated with a gas mixture containing 0% carbon dioxide and then 12% carbon dioxide and the expired gas was analysed both before and after a brief period of breath-holding. PVCO2 was estimated from the differences in carbon dioxide concentration before and after the apnoeic period. Simultaneous measurments of PaCO2 were made in blood obtained from radial artery puncture. The range of PaCO2 studied was 3.2--6.13 kPa. The relationship between mixed venous and arterial PCO2 was found to be PaCO2 = 0.87 PVCO2--0.44 (r = 0.91). We conclude that this method for measuring PVCO2 can be used during anaesthesia allowing PaCO2 to be estimated with considerable accuracy.", "contents": "A new method for measuring PCO2 during anaesthesia. We have evaluated a new method for measuring the oxygenated mixed venous PCO2 (PVCO2) in patients undergoing general anaesthesia. The lungs were inflated with a gas mixture containing 0% carbon dioxide and then 12% carbon dioxide and the expired gas was analysed both before and after a brief period of breath-holding. PVCO2 was estimated from the differences in carbon dioxide concentration before and after the apnoeic period. Simultaneous measurments of PaCO2 were made in blood obtained from radial artery puncture. The range of PaCO2 studied was 3.2--6.13 kPa. The relationship between mixed venous and arterial PCO2 was found to be PaCO2 = 0.87 PVCO2--0.44 (r = 0.91). We conclude that this method for measuring PVCO2 can be used during anaesthesia allowing PaCO2 to be estimated with considerable accuracy.", "PMID": 435344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2669", "title": "Atropine reversal of hypercarbia during enflurane anaesthesia.", "content": "Atropine was given i.v. to 35 spontaneously breathing healthy adults anaesthetized with enflurane to determine if it would reduce PaCO2 by improving gas exchange. Five minutes after administration of atropine, PaCO2 decreased from mean 7.18 to 6.65 kPa (-7%), while mean VE increased from 4.8 to 6.1 litre min-1 (+27%). These changes were maintained 15 min later in the 20 patients studied at that time. Older and more obese patients showed a more significant change. Respiratory frequency and PaO2 did not alter.", "contents": "Atropine reversal of hypercarbia during enflurane anaesthesia. Atropine was given i.v. to 35 spontaneously breathing healthy adults anaesthetized with enflurane to determine if it would reduce PaCO2 by improving gas exchange. Five minutes after administration of atropine, PaCO2 decreased from mean 7.18 to 6.65 kPa (-7%), while mean VE increased from 4.8 to 6.1 litre min-1 (+27%). These changes were maintained 15 min later in the 20 patients studied at that time. Older and more obese patients showed a more significant change. Respiratory frequency and PaO2 did not alter.", "PMID": 435345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2670", "title": "Cyclopropane and Caesarean section.", "content": "In a prospective study 589 patients were anaesthetized by the inhalation of cyclopropane 40% for 2--3 min. Relaxation was provided with suxamethonium and anaesthesia was maintained with cyclopropane 7.5%. The series was divided into four groups: patients in optimal condition (96 elective (group 1), 164 emergency (group 3)) and those not in optimal condition (75 elective (group 2), 254 emergency (group 4)). All infants from groups 1 and 3 had high Apgar scores, and all survived. Infants in groups 2 and 4 had lower Apgar scores, eight and 96 respectively were depressed, and 10 and 20 died because of obstetric and neonatal factors unrelated to the anaesthesia. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) developed in 44 infants. Among 29 infants in whom the birth weight was less than 2.5 kg the mortality was 31%, whereas no death occurred in mature infants. RDS was significantly more frequent after elective than after emergency surgery. Neonatal depression was independent of the length of the induction-delivery interval, which averaged 13.3 min. The frequency of awareness was 1.5%.", "contents": "Cyclopropane and Caesarean section. In a prospective study 589 patients were anaesthetized by the inhalation of cyclopropane 40% for 2--3 min. Relaxation was provided with suxamethonium and anaesthesia was maintained with cyclopropane 7.5%. The series was divided into four groups: patients in optimal condition (96 elective (group 1), 164 emergency (group 3)) and those not in optimal condition (75 elective (group 2), 254 emergency (group 4)). All infants from groups 1 and 3 had high Apgar scores, and all survived. Infants in groups 2 and 4 had lower Apgar scores, eight and 96 respectively were depressed, and 10 and 20 died because of obstetric and neonatal factors unrelated to the anaesthesia. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) developed in 44 infants. Among 29 infants in whom the birth weight was less than 2.5 kg the mortality was 31%, whereas no death occurred in mature infants. RDS was significantly more frequent after elective than after emergency surgery. Neonatal depression was independent of the length of the induction-delivery interval, which averaged 13.3 min. The frequency of awareness was 1.5%.", "PMID": 435346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2671", "title": "Hypotensive anaesthesia for craniectomy in infancy.", "content": "Deliberate hypotension using halothane and controlled ventilation without positive end-expiratory pressure was employed in 18 of 30 patients undergoing craniectomy for unilateral or bilateral craniosynostosis over a 3-yr period. The technique was simple, resulted in good control of arterial pressure and diminished blood loss, and did not involve extensive monitoring or the use of potentially toxic adjuvant drugs. In the hypotensive group mean systolic arterial pressure was decreased from 92.5 to 65.0 mm Hg. Estimated blood loss was decreased from 111 to 89 ml (mean) for all ages and from 133 to 72 ml (mean) for infants between 8 and 32 weeks of age compared with the normotensive control group.", "contents": "Hypotensive anaesthesia for craniectomy in infancy. Deliberate hypotension using halothane and controlled ventilation without positive end-expiratory pressure was employed in 18 of 30 patients undergoing craniectomy for unilateral or bilateral craniosynostosis over a 3-yr period. The technique was simple, resulted in good control of arterial pressure and diminished blood loss, and did not involve extensive monitoring or the use of potentially toxic adjuvant drugs. In the hypotensive group mean systolic arterial pressure was decreased from 92.5 to 65.0 mm Hg. Estimated blood loss was decreased from 111 to 89 ml (mean) for all ages and from 133 to 72 ml (mean) for infants between 8 and 32 weeks of age compared with the normotensive control group.", "PMID": 435347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2672", "title": "Metallized plastic sheeting in the prevention of hypothermia during neurosurgery.", "content": "Metallized plastic sheeting (m.p.s.) was found to be ineffective in the prevention of hypothermia in adult patients studied during neurosurgical operations. Twenty patients were wrapped in m.p.s. and 22 patients acted as controls. Mean oesophageal temperature in the m.p.s. group decreased from 36.2 degrees C to 35.4 degrees C after 3 h (control 36.5 degrees C to 35.4 degrees C). It was concluded that active warming systems are needed to maintain normothermia in patients undergoing neurosurgical operations.", "contents": "Metallized plastic sheeting in the prevention of hypothermia during neurosurgery. Metallized plastic sheeting (m.p.s.) was found to be ineffective in the prevention of hypothermia in adult patients studied during neurosurgical operations. Twenty patients were wrapped in m.p.s. and 22 patients acted as controls. Mean oesophageal temperature in the m.p.s. group decreased from 36.2 degrees C to 35.4 degrees C after 3 h (control 36.5 degrees C to 35.4 degrees C). It was concluded that active warming systems are needed to maintain normothermia in patients undergoing neurosurgical operations.", "PMID": 435348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2673", "title": "Suxamethonium infusion rate and observed fasciculations. A dose-response study.", "content": "Suxamethonium chloride (Sch) was administered i.v. to 36 adult males at six rates: 0.25 mg s-1 to 20 mg s-1. The infusion was discontinued either when there was no muscular response to tetanic stimulation of the ulnar nerve or when Sch 120 mg was exceeded. Six additional patients received a 30-mg i.v. bolus dose. Fasciculations in six areas of the body were scored from 0 to 3 and summated as a total fasciculation score. The times to first fasciculation, twitch suppression and tetanus suppression were inversely related to the infusion rates. Fasciculations in the six areas and the total fasciculation score were related directly to the rate of infusion. Total fasciculation scores in the 30-mg bolus group and the 5-mg s-1 and 20-mg s-1 infusion groups were not significantly different.", "contents": "Suxamethonium infusion rate and observed fasciculations. A dose-response study. Suxamethonium chloride (Sch) was administered i.v. to 36 adult males at six rates: 0.25 mg s-1 to 20 mg s-1. The infusion was discontinued either when there was no muscular response to tetanic stimulation of the ulnar nerve or when Sch 120 mg was exceeded. Six additional patients received a 30-mg i.v. bolus dose. Fasciculations in six areas of the body were scored from 0 to 3 and summated as a total fasciculation score. The times to first fasciculation, twitch suppression and tetanus suppression were inversely related to the infusion rates. Fasciculations in the six areas and the total fasciculation score were related directly to the rate of infusion. Total fasciculation scores in the 30-mg bolus group and the 5-mg s-1 and 20-mg s-1 infusion groups were not significantly different.", "PMID": 435349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2674", "title": "Recordings of, and an anatomical explanation for, false positive loss of resistance during lumbar extradural analgesia.", "content": "Loss of resistance dorsal to the ligamentum flavum was recorded in 10 of 16 patients aged 43--75 yr whilst performing extradural anaesthesia at the L2--3 interspace via the midline approach. Degeneration of the interspinous ligament with cavity formation is observed frequently in the elderly and may account for false positive loss of resistance and failure to obtain analgesia following the injection of local anaesthetic.", "contents": "Recordings of, and an anatomical explanation for, false positive loss of resistance during lumbar extradural analgesia. Loss of resistance dorsal to the ligamentum flavum was recorded in 10 of 16 patients aged 43--75 yr whilst performing extradural anaesthesia at the L2--3 interspace via the midline approach. Degeneration of the interspinous ligament with cavity formation is observed frequently in the elderly and may account for false positive loss of resistance and failure to obtain analgesia following the injection of local anaesthetic.", "PMID": 435350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2675", "title": "Bedside angiography of the lung by Swan-Ganz catheter. A case report.", "content": "A Swan-Ganz catheter, employed for haemodynamic monitoring, was put to a use not described previously. Pulmonary angiography was performed through the catheter at the bedside with minimal discomfort or complication. In this case it was possible to determine that a lung abscess was responsible for a translucency in the right lower lobe. This was subsequently confirmed at postmortem examination.", "contents": "Bedside angiography of the lung by Swan-Ganz catheter. A case report. A Swan-Ganz catheter, employed for haemodynamic monitoring, was put to a use not described previously. Pulmonary angiography was performed through the catheter at the bedside with minimal discomfort or complication. In this case it was possible to determine that a lung abscess was responsible for a translucency in the right lower lobe. This was subsequently confirmed at postmortem examination.", "PMID": 435351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2676", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen in serum of unselected breast-cancer patients and of non-hospitalized controls.", "content": "A series of consecutive unselected patients with primary breast carcinoma and their age-matched controls were studied for serum CEA in relation to clinical findings. Raised CEA was found in a similar frequency in patients with primary breast cancer (pre- and postoperative) and in the control women: 16%, 11% and 11%, respectively, exceeded the selected upper limit of the reference range (13 ng/ml) with a double-antibody radioimmunoassay. In the breast-cancer patients, however, 48% of the raised CEA levels exceeded 16 ng/ml, compared with only 20% in the controls. Significant correlations (r approximately 0.3) were found between CEA levels and tumour size, TNM classification and a combined clinical and histopathological classification. A high frequency of raised CEA values in the advanced breast-cancer patients was the essential contribution to these positive correlations. A correlation coefficient of 0.6 was found between pre- and postoperative CEA values. The frequency of smoking and/or chronic disease was unexpectedly high in patients as well as in controls with high CEA.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen in serum of unselected breast-cancer patients and of non-hospitalized controls. A series of consecutive unselected patients with primary breast carcinoma and their age-matched controls were studied for serum CEA in relation to clinical findings. Raised CEA was found in a similar frequency in patients with primary breast cancer (pre- and postoperative) and in the control women: 16%, 11% and 11%, respectively, exceeded the selected upper limit of the reference range (13 ng/ml) with a double-antibody radioimmunoassay. In the breast-cancer patients, however, 48% of the raised CEA levels exceeded 16 ng/ml, compared with only 20% in the controls. Significant correlations (r approximately 0.3) were found between CEA levels and tumour size, TNM classification and a combined clinical and histopathological classification. A high frequency of raised CEA values in the advanced breast-cancer patients was the essential contribution to these positive correlations. A correlation coefficient of 0.6 was found between pre- and postoperative CEA values. The frequency of smoking and/or chronic disease was unexpectedly high in patients as well as in controls with high CEA.", "PMID": 435362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2677", "title": "Establishment and characterization of primary human pancreatic carcinoma in continuous cell culture and in nude mice.", "content": "Primary human panceratic exocrine adenocarcinoma has been established in tissue culture and as xenografts in immune-deficient nu/nu mice. The cell line has a doubling time of 36 h and grows as a confluent monolayer together with a constant population of free-floating cells. Evidence of tumourigenicity was provided by growth on an early diploid fibroblast monolayer and in soft agar, and as solid tumours in immune-deficient nu/mu mice. Chromosome analysis of the cultured cells confirmed their tumour origin. Xenografts established from the cell line or directly from primary tumour tissue have retained a similar histology to the original tumour on serial transplantation. An electrophoretic study of exportable pancreatic digestive enzymes and a number of intracellular enzymes has shown that the cell line and xenografts maintain a human intracellular enzyme profile, but do not produce pancreatic digestive enzymes.", "contents": "Establishment and characterization of primary human pancreatic carcinoma in continuous cell culture and in nude mice. Primary human panceratic exocrine adenocarcinoma has been established in tissue culture and as xenografts in immune-deficient nu/nu mice. The cell line has a doubling time of 36 h and grows as a confluent monolayer together with a constant population of free-floating cells. Evidence of tumourigenicity was provided by growth on an early diploid fibroblast monolayer and in soft agar, and as solid tumours in immune-deficient nu/mu mice. Chromosome analysis of the cultured cells confirmed their tumour origin. Xenografts established from the cell line or directly from primary tumour tissue have retained a similar histology to the original tumour on serial transplantation. An electrophoretic study of exportable pancreatic digestive enzymes and a number of intracellular enzymes has shown that the cell line and xenografts maintain a human intracellular enzyme profile, but do not produce pancreatic digestive enzymes.", "PMID": 435363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2678", "title": "Phase-specific cytotoxicity in vivo of hydroxyurea on murine fibrosarcoma cells synchronized by centrifugal elutriation.", "content": "The S-phase-specific cytotoxicity of hydroxyurea (HU) was tested on synchronized murine fibrosarcoma (FSa) cells lodged in the lungs of C3Hf/Bu mice. FSa cells from primary asynchronous cultures were separated and synchronized on the basis of size by centrifugal elutriation. Flow microfluorometry (FMF) was used to determine the cell-cycle parameters and the relative synchrony of the separated populations. After elutriation, 8000 viable FSa cells from each fraction, along with 10(6) heavily irradiated tumour cells (unseparated) were injected i.v. into whole-body-irradiated mice (20 per group). Under these conditions, 95% of the injected cells, regardless of size or position in the cell cycle, are arrested in the lungs. Twenty minutes later, hydroxyurea (HU, 1 mg/g) was administered i.p. into 10 animals of each group. Fourteen days later the animals were killed, their lungs removed and fixed, and the number of macroscopic tumour nodules counted. Killing of the initially injected cells by HU, as evidenced by a reduction in lung colonies in treated animals, correlated with the precentage of S-phase cells in each fraction. The greatest effect, an 80% reduction in colony number, was seen in Fraction 8, containing the largest percentage of S-phase cells (65%). These results demonstrate the usefulness of this procedure as a rapid method for characterizing the phase specificity of chemotherapeutic drugs in vivo.", "contents": "Phase-specific cytotoxicity in vivo of hydroxyurea on murine fibrosarcoma cells synchronized by centrifugal elutriation. The S-phase-specific cytotoxicity of hydroxyurea (HU) was tested on synchronized murine fibrosarcoma (FSa) cells lodged in the lungs of C3Hf/Bu mice. FSa cells from primary asynchronous cultures were separated and synchronized on the basis of size by centrifugal elutriation. Flow microfluorometry (FMF) was used to determine the cell-cycle parameters and the relative synchrony of the separated populations. After elutriation, 8000 viable FSa cells from each fraction, along with 10(6) heavily irradiated tumour cells (unseparated) were injected i.v. into whole-body-irradiated mice (20 per group). Under these conditions, 95% of the injected cells, regardless of size or position in the cell cycle, are arrested in the lungs. Twenty minutes later, hydroxyurea (HU, 1 mg/g) was administered i.p. into 10 animals of each group. Fourteen days later the animals were killed, their lungs removed and fixed, and the number of macroscopic tumour nodules counted. Killing of the initially injected cells by HU, as evidenced by a reduction in lung colonies in treated animals, correlated with the precentage of S-phase cells in each fraction. The greatest effect, an 80% reduction in colony number, was seen in Fraction 8, containing the largest percentage of S-phase cells (65%). These results demonstrate the usefulness of this procedure as a rapid method for characterizing the phase specificity of chemotherapeutic drugs in vivo.", "PMID": 435364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2679", "title": "Changes in nerve conduction velocity in the mouse after acute and chronic administration of nitroimidazoles.", "content": "The effect of the nitroimidazoles misonidazole, Ro-05-9963, RGW-608 and metronidazole on nerve conduction velocity (NCV) were measured in the anaesthetized mouse. The compounds were administered by i.p. injection either as a single dose of 1 mg/g (only 0.5 mg/g for RGW-608) or in 36 fractions of 0.15 mg/g over 18 days (only 4 fractions in 2 days for RGW-608). After single doses a reduction in nerve conduction velocity was seen with all the compounds except metronidazole, which had no significant effect. During chronic exposure, a reduction in NCV occurred towards the end of the course of injections. All compounds produced an effect, although RGW-608 was the most neurotoxic, giving the largest reduction in NCV after only 4 injections. After the end of chronic exposure to misonidazole, Ro-05-9963 and metronidazole, recovery to normal took 2-3 weeks.", "contents": "Changes in nerve conduction velocity in the mouse after acute and chronic administration of nitroimidazoles. The effect of the nitroimidazoles misonidazole, Ro-05-9963, RGW-608 and metronidazole on nerve conduction velocity (NCV) were measured in the anaesthetized mouse. The compounds were administered by i.p. injection either as a single dose of 1 mg/g (only 0.5 mg/g for RGW-608) or in 36 fractions of 0.15 mg/g over 18 days (only 4 fractions in 2 days for RGW-608). After single doses a reduction in nerve conduction velocity was seen with all the compounds except metronidazole, which had no significant effect. During chronic exposure, a reduction in NCV occurred towards the end of the course of injections. All compounds produced an effect, although RGW-608 was the most neurotoxic, giving the largest reduction in NCV after only 4 injections. After the end of chronic exposure to misonidazole, Ro-05-9963 and metronidazole, recovery to normal took 2-3 weeks.", "PMID": 435365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2680", "title": "Three years' experience with Ch1VPP (a combination of drugs of low toxicity) for the treatment of Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "In 3 years, 118 patients with Hodgkin's disease have completed chemotherapy with chlorambucil, vinblastine, procarbazine and prednisolone (Ch1VPP). The complete remission rates were 90% for 29 patients previously treated with radiotherapy, 67% for 73 patients previously untreated and 44% for 16 patients with prior chemotherapy. The 3-year survival rates for the first 70 patients in the series were 83% for previously irradiated patients, 84% for previously untreated patients and 67% for those with prior chemotherapy. Forty-seven previously untreated or previously irradiated patients in this group achieved complete remission. The 3-year disease-free survival rates for these patients were 71% and 67% respectively. This regimen gives complete remission and survival rates comparable with results obtained with combinations including nitrogen mustard, while producing fewer side-effects.", "contents": "Three years' experience with Ch1VPP (a combination of drugs of low toxicity) for the treatment of Hodgkin's disease. In 3 years, 118 patients with Hodgkin's disease have completed chemotherapy with chlorambucil, vinblastine, procarbazine and prednisolone (Ch1VPP). The complete remission rates were 90% for 29 patients previously treated with radiotherapy, 67% for 73 patients previously untreated and 44% for 16 patients with prior chemotherapy. The 3-year survival rates for the first 70 patients in the series were 83% for previously irradiated patients, 84% for previously untreated patients and 67% for those with prior chemotherapy. Forty-seven previously untreated or previously irradiated patients in this group achieved complete remission. The 3-year disease-free survival rates for these patients were 71% and 67% respectively. This regimen gives complete remission and survival rates comparable with results obtained with combinations including nitrogen mustard, while producing fewer side-effects.", "PMID": 435366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2681", "title": "Bronchial cancer in Hong Kong 1976-1977.", "content": "Bronchial cancer is a disease of high and increasing annual incidence in Hong Kong, especially in women, whose age-specific death rates from this cause are amongst the highest in the world. A case-control study of the relationship of bronchial cancer with smoking was carried out during 1976--77, taking particular note of the histological type of the tumour. Two hundred and eight male and 189 female patients were interviewed, covering about half the total number of cases of bronchial cancer registered as dead from the disease in Hong Kong during the period of the survey. The association with smoking was more evident in males than in females, and in squamous and small-cell types, as a group, than in adenocarcinoma. Forty-four per cent of the women with bronchial cancer were non-smokers, their predominant tumour being adenocarcinoma, and in them on association could be detected with place of residence or occupation. There was no strong evidence of an association with the use of kerosene or gas for cooking; 23 did not use kerosene. The cause of the cancer in these non-smoking women remains unknown.", "contents": "Bronchial cancer in Hong Kong 1976-1977. Bronchial cancer is a disease of high and increasing annual incidence in Hong Kong, especially in women, whose age-specific death rates from this cause are amongst the highest in the world. A case-control study of the relationship of bronchial cancer with smoking was carried out during 1976--77, taking particular note of the histological type of the tumour. Two hundred and eight male and 189 female patients were interviewed, covering about half the total number of cases of bronchial cancer registered as dead from the disease in Hong Kong during the period of the survey. The association with smoking was more evident in males than in females, and in squamous and small-cell types, as a group, than in adenocarcinoma. Forty-four per cent of the women with bronchial cancer were non-smokers, their predominant tumour being adenocarcinoma, and in them on association could be detected with place of residence or occupation. There was no strong evidence of an association with the use of kerosene or gas for cooking; 23 did not use kerosene. The cause of the cancer in these non-smoking women remains unknown.", "PMID": 435367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2682", "title": "Late deaths after resection for bronchial carcinoma.", "content": "1267 patients who underwent surgical treatment for bronchial carcinoma during the period 1949--70 have been studied. 304 underwent thoracotomy without further resection; 88% died within 12 months; the maximum survival was 56 months. Of the remaining 963 patients, 869 late deaths are recorded, and the causes of these have been studied. The 5-year actuarial survival rate was 25.9%; the 10-year rate 15.3%; the 15-year rate 9.3%; and the 20-year rate 3.9%. 610 of the 869 deaths were due to bronchial carcinoma; 79 were due to respiratory disease; 57 to coronary disease; and 23 to other neoplasms. The percentage of total deaths due to bronchial carcinoma declined with the passage of time. It was 86.5% during the first year; 79.2% during the next 4 years; 53.7% from 5 to 10 years; and 39.3% over 10 years. The second commonest cause of death was respiratory disease, which tended to be related to the extent of resection. Compared with a population of the same age and sex structure, suffering the death rates of England and Wales during the period involved, these patients show a massive excess of deaths from bronchial carcinoma and a smaller excess from respiratory disease; and a considerable shortfall from coronary disease, other carcinomas, and all other causes. A more favourable probability of survival was linked with lobectomy, squamous cell type and the younger age group. A less favourable probability was linked with pneumonectomy, adenocarcinoma and older age-groups. There was no significant difference due to sex. After the first 2 years, with their heavy death rate, the chances of surviving to 10 years improved by about 15% each year.", "contents": "Late deaths after resection for bronchial carcinoma. 1267 patients who underwent surgical treatment for bronchial carcinoma during the period 1949--70 have been studied. 304 underwent thoracotomy without further resection; 88% died within 12 months; the maximum survival was 56 months. Of the remaining 963 patients, 869 late deaths are recorded, and the causes of these have been studied. The 5-year actuarial survival rate was 25.9%; the 10-year rate 15.3%; the 15-year rate 9.3%; and the 20-year rate 3.9%. 610 of the 869 deaths were due to bronchial carcinoma; 79 were due to respiratory disease; 57 to coronary disease; and 23 to other neoplasms. The percentage of total deaths due to bronchial carcinoma declined with the passage of time. It was 86.5% during the first year; 79.2% during the next 4 years; 53.7% from 5 to 10 years; and 39.3% over 10 years. The second commonest cause of death was respiratory disease, which tended to be related to the extent of resection. Compared with a population of the same age and sex structure, suffering the death rates of England and Wales during the period involved, these patients show a massive excess of deaths from bronchial carcinoma and a smaller excess from respiratory disease; and a considerable shortfall from coronary disease, other carcinomas, and all other causes. A more favourable probability of survival was linked with lobectomy, squamous cell type and the younger age group. A less favourable probability was linked with pneumonectomy, adenocarcinoma and older age-groups. There was no significant difference due to sex. After the first 2 years, with their heavy death rate, the chances of surviving to 10 years improved by about 15% each year.", "PMID": 435371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2683", "title": "Triamcinolone in corticosteroid-resistant asthma.", "content": "In an uncontrolled study 38 patients with chronic asthma were treated for up to 4.5 years (mean 2.9) with depot injections of triamcinolone acetonide. About half had proved difficult to control on large doses of corticosteroid tablets. Three-quarters were helped and the incidence of hospital admission amongst them was reduced. Side effects were tolerable and adrenal function was only moderately depressed. Spirometry showed continuing improvement up to three years after starting triamcinolone. Whether similar improvement could have been achieved by a different dosage regimen of corticosteroid tablets or whether it might have ocurred spontaneously was not tested. A controlled trial seems warranted.", "contents": "Triamcinolone in corticosteroid-resistant asthma. In an uncontrolled study 38 patients with chronic asthma were treated for up to 4.5 years (mean 2.9) with depot injections of triamcinolone acetonide. About half had proved difficult to control on large doses of corticosteroid tablets. Three-quarters were helped and the incidence of hospital admission amongst them was reduced. Side effects were tolerable and adrenal function was only moderately depressed. Spirometry showed continuing improvement up to three years after starting triamcinolone. Whether similar improvement could have been achieved by a different dosage regimen of corticosteroid tablets or whether it might have ocurred spontaneously was not tested. A controlled trial seems warranted.", "PMID": 435372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2684", "title": "Diagnostic pneumoperitoneum.", "content": "Pneumoperitoneum as a diagnostic procedure has been practised for many years but there is a reluctance to make use of it. The author believes that this is due in some degree to lack of clearly defined indications and partly to lack of confidence in the safety of the procedure. In this paper the technique of diagnostic pneumoperitoneum is described and the risks are examined. Indications for its use are described. Finally, three case histories of special relevance are described and a summary of the results is tabulated with a view of giving an estimate of the diagnostic value which may be expected.", "contents": "Diagnostic pneumoperitoneum. Pneumoperitoneum as a diagnostic procedure has been practised for many years but there is a reluctance to make use of it. The author believes that this is due in some degree to lack of clearly defined indications and partly to lack of confidence in the safety of the procedure. In this paper the technique of diagnostic pneumoperitoneum is described and the risks are examined. Indications for its use are described. Finally, three case histories of special relevance are described and a summary of the results is tabulated with a view of giving an estimate of the diagnostic value which may be expected.", "PMID": 435378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2685", "title": "Metabolic studies in acute asthma before and after treatment.", "content": "We studied the metabolism and hormone profile of 9 patients with moderately severe acute asthma before treatment, and again 10 min after intravenous aminophylline (250 mg) or the selective beta-adrenergic stimulant hexoprenaline (5 microgram) intravenously. Compared with basal values in normal subjects the untreated asthmatics had statistically significant raised mean plasma pancreatic glucagon, free fatty acid (FFA) and glucose levels in the plasma and a significantly depressed mean plasma potassium level. Insulin, growth hormone, cortisol, thyrotropin and ketone body levels were normal. The only significant changes after therapy were a further fall in plasma potassium in the hexoprenaline-treated patients and a rise in the mean lactate concentration of the group as a whole. The clinical implications of these findings are briefly considered.", "contents": "Metabolic studies in acute asthma before and after treatment. We studied the metabolism and hormone profile of 9 patients with moderately severe acute asthma before treatment, and again 10 min after intravenous aminophylline (250 mg) or the selective beta-adrenergic stimulant hexoprenaline (5 microgram) intravenously. Compared with basal values in normal subjects the untreated asthmatics had statistically significant raised mean plasma pancreatic glucagon, free fatty acid (FFA) and glucose levels in the plasma and a significantly depressed mean plasma potassium level. Insulin, growth hormone, cortisol, thyrotropin and ketone body levels were normal. The only significant changes after therapy were a further fall in plasma potassium in the hexoprenaline-treated patients and a rise in the mean lactate concentration of the group as a whole. The clinical implications of these findings are briefly considered.", "PMID": 435379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2686", "title": "The diagnosis of pulmonary carcinoid tumours.", "content": "Carcinoid tumours of the lung are commonly misdiagnosed as carcinoma and even if they are recognized their behaviour may be unexpected. In a series of ten cases which had caused diagnostic difficulty there had been an incorrect interpretation of broncial biopsy material in four, of the resected tumours in another four, of a needle biopsy core in one and of autopsy material in another. In some cases these errors led to needless radiotherapy and to an unnecessarily poor prognosis being given. In all cases the diagnosis of carcinoid tumour was made retrospectively by the demonstration of argyrophil granules in the tumour cells or by electron microscopy. Electron-dense bodies could be found in material that had been fixed in formol saline or even embedded in paraffin so that this method may be used retrospectively. Two of these ten tumours behaved in a malignant fashion but progressed much more slowly than most samples of bronchial carcinoma. The possibility of carcinoid tumour should be considered in any patient with a tumour of the lung who is unusually young, or who is a non-smoker or where bone or calcification are present in the tumour. It is also suggested that unrecognized cases of carcinoid tumour may be found amongst long-term survivors with lung tumours which havebeen treated by radiotherapy or chemotherapy without surgery.", "contents": "The diagnosis of pulmonary carcinoid tumours. Carcinoid tumours of the lung are commonly misdiagnosed as carcinoma and even if they are recognized their behaviour may be unexpected. In a series of ten cases which had caused diagnostic difficulty there had been an incorrect interpretation of broncial biopsy material in four, of the resected tumours in another four, of a needle biopsy core in one and of autopsy material in another. In some cases these errors led to needless radiotherapy and to an unnecessarily poor prognosis being given. In all cases the diagnosis of carcinoid tumour was made retrospectively by the demonstration of argyrophil granules in the tumour cells or by electron microscopy. Electron-dense bodies could be found in material that had been fixed in formol saline or even embedded in paraffin so that this method may be used retrospectively. Two of these ten tumours behaved in a malignant fashion but progressed much more slowly than most samples of bronchial carcinoma. The possibility of carcinoid tumour should be considered in any patient with a tumour of the lung who is unusually young, or who is a non-smoker or where bone or calcification are present in the tumour. It is also suggested that unrecognized cases of carcinoid tumour may be found amongst long-term survivors with lung tumours which havebeen treated by radiotherapy or chemotherapy without surgery.", "PMID": 435380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2687", "title": "Hyponatraemia and mesothelioma.", "content": "Hyponatraemia was found in 18 (62%) of 29 patients with histologically proven mesothelioma. The mechanism for the development of the hyponatraemia is discussed. It is suggested that patients with mesothelioma should be monitored for electrolyte abnormalities. If hyponatraemia is found the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone should be suspected as treatment with demethylchlortetracycline may improve the quality of life in an otherwise fatal illness.", "contents": "Hyponatraemia and mesothelioma. Hyponatraemia was found in 18 (62%) of 29 patients with histologically proven mesothelioma. The mechanism for the development of the hyponatraemia is discussed. It is suggested that patients with mesothelioma should be monitored for electrolyte abnormalities. If hyponatraemia is found the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone should be suspected as treatment with demethylchlortetracycline may improve the quality of life in an otherwise fatal illness.", "PMID": 435381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2688", "title": "Initial photochemotherapy of psoriasis with orally administered 8-methoxypsoralen and longwave ultraviolet light (PUVA).", "content": "One hundred and seven patients with psoriasis underwent initial PUVA therapy. Complete clearance was obtained in 52.3% of the patients, incomplete in 40.2% while 7.5% of the patients did not respond at all. The non-responders to the regular PUVA treatment regime (0.5 mg 8-MOP/kg body-weight) were given an increased 8-MOP (8-methoxypsoralen) dose schedule (0.6 mg 8-MOP/kg body weight) and in 90.9% of these patients their lesions cleared after 35 PUVA exposures. However, a small percentage (9.1%) of the non-responders to the normal dose schedule did not want to continue the increased 8-MOP dose schedule because of persistent nausea. For this reason they were given regular PUVA therapy and they reacted well, but only after fifty-five exposures. Irrespective of the complete or incomplete clearance of psoriasis the patients remained in remission for a mean period of about 5 1/2 months. During the remission period the patients were advised to use a tar preparation or topical corticosteroids in the event of minor exacerbations.", "contents": "Initial photochemotherapy of psoriasis with orally administered 8-methoxypsoralen and longwave ultraviolet light (PUVA). One hundred and seven patients with psoriasis underwent initial PUVA therapy. Complete clearance was obtained in 52.3% of the patients, incomplete in 40.2% while 7.5% of the patients did not respond at all. The non-responders to the regular PUVA treatment regime (0.5 mg 8-MOP/kg body-weight) were given an increased 8-MOP (8-methoxypsoralen) dose schedule (0.6 mg 8-MOP/kg body weight) and in 90.9% of these patients their lesions cleared after 35 PUVA exposures. However, a small percentage (9.1%) of the non-responders to the normal dose schedule did not want to continue the increased 8-MOP dose schedule because of persistent nausea. For this reason they were given regular PUVA therapy and they reacted well, but only after fifty-five exposures. Irrespective of the complete or incomplete clearance of psoriasis the patients remained in remission for a mean period of about 5 1/2 months. During the remission period the patients were advised to use a tar preparation or topical corticosteroids in the event of minor exacerbations.", "PMID": 435382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2689", "title": "Histopathology of remodelling induced by PUVA in the superficial dermis.", "content": "The histopathological alterations induced by PUVA within the skin are reported in a patient treated for psoriasis. The main impact is located at the site of former psoriatic plaques in which the target is the microvasculature. A residual coating sheath is present around vessels and fibrosis appears in the superficial dermis. These remodellings interfere with the normal dermo--epidermal relationships; the epidermis contains atypical keratinocytes, and melanocytes are no longer recognizable.", "contents": "Histopathology of remodelling induced by PUVA in the superficial dermis. The histopathological alterations induced by PUVA within the skin are reported in a patient treated for psoriasis. The main impact is located at the site of former psoriatic plaques in which the target is the microvasculature. A residual coating sheath is present around vessels and fibrosis appears in the superficial dermis. These remodellings interfere with the normal dermo--epidermal relationships; the epidermis contains atypical keratinocytes, and melanocytes are no longer recognizable.", "PMID": 435383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2690", "title": "A history questionnaire for dermatology out-patients.", "content": "A questionnaire has been devised to be completed by new patients at home before attending the dermatology clinic. We report our experience with this questionnaire and discuss the potential advantages of this system; these include increased detail and accuracy of history, standardization of information and easier availability of information at patients' follow-up. Previously used questionnaires and other similar methods of obtaining a self administered history are discussed.", "contents": "A history questionnaire for dermatology out-patients. A questionnaire has been devised to be completed by new patients at home before attending the dermatology clinic. We report our experience with this questionnaire and discuss the potential advantages of this system; these include increased detail and accuracy of history, standardization of information and easier availability of information at patients' follow-up. Previously used questionnaires and other similar methods of obtaining a self administered history are discussed.", "PMID": 435384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2691", "title": "Acid hydrolases in blister fluid. 5. Influence of ultraviolet radiation in patients with polymorphic light eruption.", "content": "The minimal erythema dose for chronic polymorphic light eruption (CPLE) patients was significantly reduced for UV-B rays. However, following doses which produced comparable erythema, no significant differences were found in the release of acid hydrolases between CPLE patients and controls. An increased release of acid hydrolases was found to accompany the formation of papular lesions. Increased enzyme activity was first observed some hours after the appearance of the erythema.", "contents": "Acid hydrolases in blister fluid. 5. Influence of ultraviolet radiation in patients with polymorphic light eruption. The minimal erythema dose for chronic polymorphic light eruption (CPLE) patients was significantly reduced for UV-B rays. However, following doses which produced comparable erythema, no significant differences were found in the release of acid hydrolases between CPLE patients and controls. An increased release of acid hydrolases was found to accompany the formation of papular lesions. Increased enzyme activity was first observed some hours after the appearance of the erythema.", "PMID": 435385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2692", "title": "Acid hydrolases in blister fluid. 6. Photocontact and contact allergic skin reactions.", "content": "Increased acid hydrolase activity has been demonstrated in the fluid from experimental suction blisters raised on the sites of contact or photocontact allergic skin reactions. The magnitude of the increases correlated well with the intensity of the reactions. The enzymes appeared after latent periods of 10 h for vesicular reactions, 15 h for papular reactions and 24 h for erythematous responses. The present observations are very similar to those reported following UV-B; thus our previous conclusions regarding the role of lysosomal hydrolases in UVR erythema may be generalized to include other forms of cutaneous inflammation.", "contents": "Acid hydrolases in blister fluid. 6. Photocontact and contact allergic skin reactions. Increased acid hydrolase activity has been demonstrated in the fluid from experimental suction blisters raised on the sites of contact or photocontact allergic skin reactions. The magnitude of the increases correlated well with the intensity of the reactions. The enzymes appeared after latent periods of 10 h for vesicular reactions, 15 h for papular reactions and 24 h for erythematous responses. The present observations are very similar to those reported following UV-B; thus our previous conclusions regarding the role of lysosomal hydrolases in UVR erythema may be generalized to include other forms of cutaneous inflammation.", "PMID": 435386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2693", "title": "S\u00e9zary's syndrome: a clinical evaluation of eight patients.", "content": "Clinical and laboratory investigations of 8 patients with S\u00e9zary's syndrome are presented. S\u00e9zary cells were found in peripheral blood as well as in bone marrow and lymph nodes. The overall follow-up period was 8 years. Different therapeutic regimens were given. The best results were obtained with chlorambucil and prednisone orally, combined with topical application of nitrogen mustard. Three patients died of pneumonia and septicaemia.", "contents": "S\u00e9zary's syndrome: a clinical evaluation of eight patients. Clinical and laboratory investigations of 8 patients with S\u00e9zary's syndrome are presented. S\u00e9zary cells were found in peripheral blood as well as in bone marrow and lymph nodes. The overall follow-up period was 8 years. Different therapeutic regimens were given. The best results were obtained with chlorambucil and prednisone orally, combined with topical application of nitrogen mustard. Three patients died of pneumonia and septicaemia.", "PMID": 435387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2694", "title": "Pityriasis lichenoides chronica presenting as hypopigmentation.", "content": "Seven black or dark skinned patients with pityriasis lichenoides chronica (PLC) are described, who presented with widespread hypopigmentation. The evidence on which a diagnosis of PLC was made is presented and the differential diagnosis discussed. The hypopigmentation was noted in some patients to be especially marked on the proximal parts of the limbs and axillary folds. A diagnosis of PLC should be considered in all dark skinned patients with a widespread hypopigmented rash.", "contents": "Pityriasis lichenoides chronica presenting as hypopigmentation. Seven black or dark skinned patients with pityriasis lichenoides chronica (PLC) are described, who presented with widespread hypopigmentation. The evidence on which a diagnosis of PLC was made is presented and the differential diagnosis discussed. The hypopigmentation was noted in some patients to be especially marked on the proximal parts of the limbs and axillary folds. A diagnosis of PLC should be considered in all dark skinned patients with a widespread hypopigmented rash.", "PMID": 435388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2695", "title": "Trichilemmal horn: cutaneous horn showing trichilemmal keratinization.", "content": "A unique and distinctive clinicopathological entity occurred in nineteen patients who ranged in age from 16 to 72 (median 50) years. Clinically, these were solitary cutaneous horns. Nine were on the limbs, four on the back, two on the face, three on the scalp, and in one the site was not known; the median duration was 2 years. Histologically, there was a benign picture with a protrusion of massive horn and trichilemmal keratinization at the base. This tumour, which I have named trichilemmal horn, must be differentiated from other lesions that show trichilemmal keratinization (trichilemmal cyst, proliferating trichilemmal cyst, keratoacanthoma) and from other cutaneous horns, including trichilemmomal horn (cutaneous horn overlying trichilemmoma).", "contents": "Trichilemmal horn: cutaneous horn showing trichilemmal keratinization. A unique and distinctive clinicopathological entity occurred in nineteen patients who ranged in age from 16 to 72 (median 50) years. Clinically, these were solitary cutaneous horns. Nine were on the limbs, four on the back, two on the face, three on the scalp, and in one the site was not known; the median duration was 2 years. Histologically, there was a benign picture with a protrusion of massive horn and trichilemmal keratinization at the base. This tumour, which I have named trichilemmal horn, must be differentiated from other lesions that show trichilemmal keratinization (trichilemmal cyst, proliferating trichilemmal cyst, keratoacanthoma) and from other cutaneous horns, including trichilemmomal horn (cutaneous horn overlying trichilemmoma).", "PMID": 435389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2696", "title": "Clearing of psoriasis after cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass oxygenation: a corollary to clearance after dialysis?", "content": "A 54-year-old man had severe psoriasis with associated arthritis for 10 years. Attempts at therapy with tars, topical steroids and a short course of ultraviolet light were unsuccessful. His psoriasis cleared 6 weeks after cardiac surgery requiring cadiopulmonary bypass oxygenation.", "contents": "Clearing of psoriasis after cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass oxygenation: a corollary to clearance after dialysis? A 54-year-old man had severe psoriasis with associated arthritis for 10 years. Attempts at therapy with tars, topical steroids and a short course of ultraviolet light were unsuccessful. His psoriasis cleared 6 weeks after cardiac surgery requiring cadiopulmonary bypass oxygenation.", "PMID": 435390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2697", "title": "Pili multigemini. Report of a case in association with cleidocranial dysostosis.", "content": "A patient with cleidocranial dysostosis developed extensive pili multigemini over the heavily bearded chin and cheek areas. Histological examination of serial sections revealed complicated follicular structures forming from two to as many eight hair shafts. Each hair is formed by a single branch of dermal papilla which is surrounded by all layers present in a normal follicle except for the outer root sheath cells. The outer root sheath surrounds the entire follicle. Irregularities in configuration of the hairs, longitudinal grooving and areas of bifurcation and re-adhesion of the hair shafts are demonstrated.", "contents": "Pili multigemini. Report of a case in association with cleidocranial dysostosis. A patient with cleidocranial dysostosis developed extensive pili multigemini over the heavily bearded chin and cheek areas. Histological examination of serial sections revealed complicated follicular structures forming from two to as many eight hair shafts. Each hair is formed by a single branch of dermal papilla which is surrounded by all layers present in a normal follicle except for the outer root sheath cells. The outer root sheath surrounds the entire follicle. Irregularities in configuration of the hairs, longitudinal grooving and areas of bifurcation and re-adhesion of the hair shafts are demonstrated.", "PMID": 435391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2698", "title": "Familial Kaposi's sarcoma.", "content": "Kaposi's sarcoma occuring in a mother and son is described, and previous reports of familial occurrence of this disease are reviewed.", "contents": "Familial Kaposi's sarcoma. Kaposi's sarcoma occuring in a mother and son is described, and previous reports of familial occurrence of this disease are reviewed.", "PMID": 435392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2699", "title": "Lymphangioma-like Kaposi's sarcoma. A report of three cases.", "content": "Details of three patients with Kaposi's sarcoma are presented. Each case, although clinically typical, displayed unusual histological changes suggestive of lymphangioendothelioma. The significance of these changes with regard to the histogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma is discussed.", "contents": "Lymphangioma-like Kaposi's sarcoma. A report of three cases. Details of three patients with Kaposi's sarcoma are presented. Each case, although clinically typical, displayed unusual histological changes suggestive of lymphangioendothelioma. The significance of these changes with regard to the histogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma is discussed.", "PMID": 435393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2700", "title": "Phenytoin dependent fibrosis in polyfibromatosis syndrome.", "content": "We have followed up the evolution of a polyfibromatosis syndrome in a 20-year-old male treated with diphenylhydantoin for epileptic convulsions. The main symptoms were attributable to fibrosis of the adventitial dermis associated with camptodactyly, knuckle pads, tendinous calcification, osseous hypoplasia of the face, scoliosis with thoracic deformation, and osteolytic changes of wrists, hands and feet. Quantitative variations of the mechanical properties of skin measured in vivo suggested a reversible fibrosing action of diphenylhydanto\u00efn in a genetically predisposed patient.", "contents": "Phenytoin dependent fibrosis in polyfibromatosis syndrome. We have followed up the evolution of a polyfibromatosis syndrome in a 20-year-old male treated with diphenylhydantoin for epileptic convulsions. The main symptoms were attributable to fibrosis of the adventitial dermis associated with camptodactyly, knuckle pads, tendinous calcification, osseous hypoplasia of the face, scoliosis with thoracic deformation, and osteolytic changes of wrists, hands and feet. Quantitative variations of the mechanical properties of skin measured in vivo suggested a reversible fibrosing action of diphenylhydanto\u00efn in a genetically predisposed patient.", "PMID": 435394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2701", "title": "Patterns of globin chain synthesis in erythroid colonies grown from sheep marrow of different developmental stages.", "content": "Erythroid colonies were grown from fetal sheep bone marrow at different stages of development and from adult marrow. Colony numbers increased with erythropoietin concentration, but fetal erythroid cells were more sensitive to the hormone than adult cells. Haemoglobin synthesis was characterized in the colonies and compared to that in control marrow incubations. No beta chain synthesis was detectable in marrow incubations or erythroid colonies from fetal marrow at 87-96 d gestation. Incubations of 115-120 d marrow shoed 5% beta chain synthesis while erythroid colonies synthesised up to 20% beta chains. Incubations and erythroid colonies from 125 d marrows showed about 27% beta chain synthesis, despite a similar increase in colony numbers with erythropoietin as the other marrows. Later in gestation, beta chain synthesis was lower in erythroid colonies than in marrow incubations and declined further in erythroid colonies as erythropoietin concentration increased. Adult marrow showed no detectable gamma chain synthesis but erythroid colonies produced up to 12% gamma chains, the identity of which was confirmed by peptide mapping. All changes in globin synthesis in vitro were correlated with colony numbers. In adult marrow, the maximal level of gamma chain production was inversely related to the cloning efficiency of the marrow samples studied. Potential uses of this model for studying globin gene expression are discussed.", "contents": "Patterns of globin chain synthesis in erythroid colonies grown from sheep marrow of different developmental stages. Erythroid colonies were grown from fetal sheep bone marrow at different stages of development and from adult marrow. Colony numbers increased with erythropoietin concentration, but fetal erythroid cells were more sensitive to the hormone than adult cells. Haemoglobin synthesis was characterized in the colonies and compared to that in control marrow incubations. No beta chain synthesis was detectable in marrow incubations or erythroid colonies from fetal marrow at 87-96 d gestation. Incubations of 115-120 d marrow shoed 5% beta chain synthesis while erythroid colonies synthesised up to 20% beta chains. Incubations and erythroid colonies from 125 d marrows showed about 27% beta chain synthesis, despite a similar increase in colony numbers with erythropoietin as the other marrows. Later in gestation, beta chain synthesis was lower in erythroid colonies than in marrow incubations and declined further in erythroid colonies as erythropoietin concentration increased. Adult marrow showed no detectable gamma chain synthesis but erythroid colonies produced up to 12% gamma chains, the identity of which was confirmed by peptide mapping. All changes in globin synthesis in vitro were correlated with colony numbers. In adult marrow, the maximal level of gamma chain production was inversely related to the cloning efficiency of the marrow samples studied. Potential uses of this model for studying globin gene expression are discussed.", "PMID": 435396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2702", "title": "In vitro culture of erythroid colonies from human fetal liver and umbilical cord blood.", "content": "Colony formation by erythroid precursors from human fetal liver, umbilical cord blood and adult peripheral blood has been studied in a plasma clot culture system. Fetal liver (FL) was obtained at post-mortem examination from 13-22 week abortuses. After mincing in Hanks' solution, cells in suspension were harvested by Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation. Mononuclear cells were obtained by centrifugation of umbilical cord blood (CB) and normal adult peripheral blood (PB). All three types of preparations were incubated up to 14 d in 0.1 ml plasma clot cultures containing 0-4 u/ml erythropoietin (Epo) and 10(6) cells/ml. No colonies formed in the absence of Epo. Normal adult PB produced late-appearing colonies; there were no colonies at day 7 and up to 100 colonies/0.1 ml at day 14. CB produced early and late colonies with up to 200 colonies/0.1 ml at day 7 and 125 at day 14. Cells from FL produced many early colonies; over 1500 colonies/0.1 ml were sent at day 7 and there was a subsequent decline in colony count with longer incubation. In cultures of both CB and FL, colonies composed of either mature or immature cells were noted during both early and late stages of incubation suggesting that these cell sources contain a heterogeneous population of erythroid colony progenitors. Measurement of differential beta and gamma globin chain synthesis by erythroid colonies grown from fetal liver and umbilical cord blood gave results similar to those obtained by direct pulse-labelling of the original source of the cultured cells.", "contents": "In vitro culture of erythroid colonies from human fetal liver and umbilical cord blood. Colony formation by erythroid precursors from human fetal liver, umbilical cord blood and adult peripheral blood has been studied in a plasma clot culture system. Fetal liver (FL) was obtained at post-mortem examination from 13-22 week abortuses. After mincing in Hanks' solution, cells in suspension were harvested by Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation. Mononuclear cells were obtained by centrifugation of umbilical cord blood (CB) and normal adult peripheral blood (PB). All three types of preparations were incubated up to 14 d in 0.1 ml plasma clot cultures containing 0-4 u/ml erythropoietin (Epo) and 10(6) cells/ml. No colonies formed in the absence of Epo. Normal adult PB produced late-appearing colonies; there were no colonies at day 7 and up to 100 colonies/0.1 ml at day 14. CB produced early and late colonies with up to 200 colonies/0.1 ml at day 7 and 125 at day 14. Cells from FL produced many early colonies; over 1500 colonies/0.1 ml were sent at day 7 and there was a subsequent decline in colony count with longer incubation. In cultures of both CB and FL, colonies composed of either mature or immature cells were noted during both early and late stages of incubation suggesting that these cell sources contain a heterogeneous population of erythroid colony progenitors. Measurement of differential beta and gamma globin chain synthesis by erythroid colonies grown from fetal liver and umbilical cord blood gave results similar to those obtained by direct pulse-labelling of the original source of the cultured cells.", "PMID": 435397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2703", "title": "Some aspects of the biology of multinucleate and giant mononucleate erythroblasts in a patient with CDA, type III.", "content": "Marrow cells of a patient with CDA, type III, were (1) incubated with 3H-thymidine for 0.5 h and studied using a combination of Feulgen microspectrophotometry and light microscope autoradiography and (2) incubated with 3H-thymidine, 3H-uridine or 3H-leucine for 1 h and studied using the technique of electron microscope autoradiography. The data revealed multiple abnormalities in the proliferation of erythroblasts but no abnormality in the distribution of neutrophil promyelocytes and myelocytes in the different stages of interphase. Some mononucleate erythroblasts had DNA contents of 4-20c and the multinucleate erythroblasts had total DNA contents of 2-40c. In about 40% of the multinucleate erythroblasts, only some of the nuclei within the same cell incorporated 3H-thymidine and the electron microscope autoradiographic studies revealed that the nuclei which failed to synthesize DNA virtually always showed abnormalities in the electron-density of the heterochromatin or euchromatin or a Swiss-cheese appearance of the heterochromatin. Furthermore, in some multinucleate cells but not in others, the ultrastructurally abnormal nuclei showed a marked depression of RNA synthesis when compared with the normal-looking nuclei within the same cell. An occasional binucleate, multinucleate and giant mononucleate erythroblast showed ultrastructural changes suggestive of advanced degeneration and such cells, which showed a marked depression of RNA and protein synthesis, appeared to be phagocytosed by macrophages.", "contents": "Some aspects of the biology of multinucleate and giant mononucleate erythroblasts in a patient with CDA, type III. Marrow cells of a patient with CDA, type III, were (1) incubated with 3H-thymidine for 0.5 h and studied using a combination of Feulgen microspectrophotometry and light microscope autoradiography and (2) incubated with 3H-thymidine, 3H-uridine or 3H-leucine for 1 h and studied using the technique of electron microscope autoradiography. The data revealed multiple abnormalities in the proliferation of erythroblasts but no abnormality in the distribution of neutrophil promyelocytes and myelocytes in the different stages of interphase. Some mononucleate erythroblasts had DNA contents of 4-20c and the multinucleate erythroblasts had total DNA contents of 2-40c. In about 40% of the multinucleate erythroblasts, only some of the nuclei within the same cell incorporated 3H-thymidine and the electron microscope autoradiographic studies revealed that the nuclei which failed to synthesize DNA virtually always showed abnormalities in the electron-density of the heterochromatin or euchromatin or a Swiss-cheese appearance of the heterochromatin. Furthermore, in some multinucleate cells but not in others, the ultrastructurally abnormal nuclei showed a marked depression of RNA synthesis when compared with the normal-looking nuclei within the same cell. An occasional binucleate, multinucleate and giant mononucleate erythroblast showed ultrastructural changes suggestive of advanced degeneration and such cells, which showed a marked depression of RNA and protein synthesis, appeared to be phagocytosed by macrophages.", "PMID": 435398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2704", "title": "Abnormal red-cell metabolism of pyridoxine associated with beta-thalassaemia.", "content": "Red-cell conversion of pyridoxine to pyridoxal phosphate was studied in control subjects, and patients with heterozygous and homozygous beta-thalassaemia. In 7% of control subjects the rate of pyridoxine conversion was well below the range found in the other control subjects (5.0-8.6%, mean 6.5%/g Hb x 10(-2)) but in heterozygous beta-thalassaemia was below that range in 63% of the patients. The conversion rate was also slow or borderline in the majority of patients with severe transfusion-dependent homozygous beta-thalassaemia, in spite of the presence of some donor cells; but was normal, or fast as in other anaemias, in all but one patient with mild homozygous thalassaemia. There was a much higher incidence of a slow conversion rate in the parents of the severe homozygotes than in parents of the mild homozygotes, illustrating the familial pattern. This supports our view that the red-cell conversion rate of pyridoxine is an inherited characteristic, independent of thalassaemia. The cause of a reduced rate of pyridoxine conversion was investigated. The increase to a normal rate following riboflavin ingestion suggests a defect in the activity of the flavin mononucleotide (FMN)-dependent pyridoxine phosphate oxidase.", "contents": "Abnormal red-cell metabolism of pyridoxine associated with beta-thalassaemia. Red-cell conversion of pyridoxine to pyridoxal phosphate was studied in control subjects, and patients with heterozygous and homozygous beta-thalassaemia. In 7% of control subjects the rate of pyridoxine conversion was well below the range found in the other control subjects (5.0-8.6%, mean 6.5%/g Hb x 10(-2)) but in heterozygous beta-thalassaemia was below that range in 63% of the patients. The conversion rate was also slow or borderline in the majority of patients with severe transfusion-dependent homozygous beta-thalassaemia, in spite of the presence of some donor cells; but was normal, or fast as in other anaemias, in all but one patient with mild homozygous thalassaemia. There was a much higher incidence of a slow conversion rate in the parents of the severe homozygotes than in parents of the mild homozygotes, illustrating the familial pattern. This supports our view that the red-cell conversion rate of pyridoxine is an inherited characteristic, independent of thalassaemia. The cause of a reduced rate of pyridoxine conversion was investigated. The increase to a normal rate following riboflavin ingestion suggests a defect in the activity of the flavin mononucleotide (FMN)-dependent pyridoxine phosphate oxidase.", "PMID": 435399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2705", "title": "Comparison of in vitro effects of normal IgG and of a monoclonal IgG on the rheological behaviour of erythrocytes.", "content": "Erythrocyte sedimentation, viscosity, electrophroetic mobility, and osmotic fragility were measured in a study of the rheological behaviour of the erythrocyte in vitro. In comparison with physiological saline solution, a suspending medium containing a gamma2lambda2 monoclonal IgG from a patient with multiple myeloma caused rheological changes 2-3 times as great as a medium with normal IgG. Our results demonstrate the existence of nonimmunological interactions between erythrocytes and normal or monoclonal immunoglobulins, and they raise questions about the widely held assumption that paraproteins are structurally 'normal'.", "contents": "Comparison of in vitro effects of normal IgG and of a monoclonal IgG on the rheological behaviour of erythrocytes. Erythrocyte sedimentation, viscosity, electrophroetic mobility, and osmotic fragility were measured in a study of the rheological behaviour of the erythrocyte in vitro. In comparison with physiological saline solution, a suspending medium containing a gamma2lambda2 monoclonal IgG from a patient with multiple myeloma caused rheological changes 2-3 times as great as a medium with normal IgG. Our results demonstrate the existence of nonimmunological interactions between erythrocytes and normal or monoclonal immunoglobulins, and they raise questions about the widely held assumption that paraproteins are structurally 'normal'.", "PMID": 435400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2706", "title": "Heat-induced erythrocyte fragmentation in neonatal elliptocytosis.", "content": "Erythrocytes from neonates with elliptocytosis were studied for their pattern of heat-induced fragmentation. Membrane alterations began at 44 degrees C. There was a gradual progression in shape changes as the temperature was increased to 47 degrees C, at which point frank fragmentation occurred. Normal erythrocytes show no morphologic changes until the critical temperature of fragmentation, 49 degrees C is reached. Heat studies were repeated a few months later, at a time when the patients' erythrocyte morphology had become typical of elliptocytosis. Morphologic changes occurred abruptly at 48 degrees C with complete fragmentation. Increased thermal sensitivity of the red cell membrane has previously been demonstrated for pyropoikilocytes, and these studies suggest that some cases of elliptocytosis may be mild expressions of a similar membrane defect.", "contents": "Heat-induced erythrocyte fragmentation in neonatal elliptocytosis. Erythrocytes from neonates with elliptocytosis were studied for their pattern of heat-induced fragmentation. Membrane alterations began at 44 degrees C. There was a gradual progression in shape changes as the temperature was increased to 47 degrees C, at which point frank fragmentation occurred. Normal erythrocytes show no morphologic changes until the critical temperature of fragmentation, 49 degrees C is reached. Heat studies were repeated a few months later, at a time when the patients' erythrocyte morphology had become typical of elliptocytosis. Morphologic changes occurred abruptly at 48 degrees C with complete fragmentation. Increased thermal sensitivity of the red cell membrane has previously been demonstrated for pyropoikilocytes, and these studies suggest that some cases of elliptocytosis may be mild expressions of a similar membrane defect.", "PMID": 435401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2707", "title": "N-alkaline phosphatase: a potential disease marker for lymphoproliferative disorders.", "content": "A characteristic alkaline phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester hydrolase, alkaline pH optimum, EC 3.1.3.1) was detected in the sera of most patients with infectious mononucleosis, acute and chronic lymphatic leukaemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The enzyme was also present in the sera of nine out of 26 patients with cancer of the cervix. N-APase in these cases counted 30-100% of the total alkaline phosphatase activity. N-APase was absent from the sera of healthy individuals and of patients with acute and chronic granulocytic leukaemia, breast cancer, colon cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, systemic lupus erythematosis, hepatitis and obstructive jaundice. Only three of 22 patients with Hodgkin's disease showed n-apase activity in the serum. In infectious mononucleosis the presence of N-APase activity was well correlated with the clinical course. In 13 cases studied, the clinical improvement was associated with the decrease or disappearance of N-APase activity. N-APase activity could not be detected in white cells of acute myeloid leukaemic patients, nor in the cells of myeloid blastic crisis of chronic granulocytic leukaemia. It was present in the cells of lymphoid blastic crisis of chronic granulocytic leukaemia.", "contents": "N-alkaline phosphatase: a potential disease marker for lymphoproliferative disorders. A characteristic alkaline phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester hydrolase, alkaline pH optimum, EC 3.1.3.1) was detected in the sera of most patients with infectious mononucleosis, acute and chronic lymphatic leukaemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The enzyme was also present in the sera of nine out of 26 patients with cancer of the cervix. N-APase in these cases counted 30-100% of the total alkaline phosphatase activity. N-APase was absent from the sera of healthy individuals and of patients with acute and chronic granulocytic leukaemia, breast cancer, colon cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, systemic lupus erythematosis, hepatitis and obstructive jaundice. Only three of 22 patients with Hodgkin's disease showed n-apase activity in the serum. In infectious mononucleosis the presence of N-APase activity was well correlated with the clinical course. In 13 cases studied, the clinical improvement was associated with the decrease or disappearance of N-APase activity. N-APase activity could not be detected in white cells of acute myeloid leukaemic patients, nor in the cells of myeloid blastic crisis of chronic granulocytic leukaemia. It was present in the cells of lymphoid blastic crisis of chronic granulocytic leukaemia.", "PMID": 435402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2708", "title": "The determination of antithrombin III by radioimmunoassay and its clinical application.", "content": "A radioimmunoassay (RIA) had been developed for the determination of antithrombin III (AT III) in man. The detection limit was 25 microgram/dl. AT III-RIA level and biological activity (anti-Xa) was significantly correlated (r = 0.737, P less than 0.001). Plasma levels in 36 healthy males (mean +/- SD, 19.9 +/- 2.5 mg/dl) and 21 healthy females (19.1 +/- 2.4 mg/dl) were similar. Serial AT III measurements in normal menstruating females showed lower levels during midcycle and higher concentrations during menstruation. In carcinomas, the AT III levels were lower than normal, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma. In cirrhosis of liver, the levels were markedly decreased and in some patients were below that found in congenital AT III deficiency. Patients with deep vein thrombosis and patients with heart valve replacement had lower levels than normal, while patients with cerebral vascular occlusion had normal levels. The possible use of AT III as a diagnostic tool of post-operative deep vein thrombosis was demonstrated in one patient after hysterectomy. The increased sensitivity, specificity and precision of this type of assay offer distinct advantages over existing methods of AT III estimation.", "contents": "The determination of antithrombin III by radioimmunoassay and its clinical application. A radioimmunoassay (RIA) had been developed for the determination of antithrombin III (AT III) in man. The detection limit was 25 microgram/dl. AT III-RIA level and biological activity (anti-Xa) was significantly correlated (r = 0.737, P less than 0.001). Plasma levels in 36 healthy males (mean +/- SD, 19.9 +/- 2.5 mg/dl) and 21 healthy females (19.1 +/- 2.4 mg/dl) were similar. Serial AT III measurements in normal menstruating females showed lower levels during midcycle and higher concentrations during menstruation. In carcinomas, the AT III levels were lower than normal, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma. In cirrhosis of liver, the levels were markedly decreased and in some patients were below that found in congenital AT III deficiency. Patients with deep vein thrombosis and patients with heart valve replacement had lower levels than normal, while patients with cerebral vascular occlusion had normal levels. The possible use of AT III as a diagnostic tool of post-operative deep vein thrombosis was demonstrated in one patient after hysterectomy. The increased sensitivity, specificity and precision of this type of assay offer distinct advantages over existing methods of AT III estimation.", "PMID": 435403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2709", "title": "Anticoagulant activities of high and low molecular weight heparin fractions.", "content": "The anticoagulant activities of high and low molecular weight heparin fractions were measured by three assay methods, both in vitro, and after intravenous injection in volunteers. The low molecular weight (LMW) fraction had similar anti-Xa activity in vitro to the high molecular weight (HMW) fraction, but in APTT assays the HMW fraction was about twice as potent. After intravenous injection, the two fractions gave equal heparin levels by anti-Xa assays, but in APTT assays using synthetic substrate S-2222 gave about 20% lower levels than anti-Xa clotting assays for both heparins. Complete protamine neutralization of the post-injection heparin activity was found in APTT and synthetic substrate assays, but about 20% of the clotting anti-Xa effect could not be neutralized. Complete neutralization of the fractions by protamine was shown by all three assays in vitro. This non-neutralizable activity probably accounts for the difference between the anti-Xa clotting and synthetic substrate assays. Studies by crossed immunoelectrophoresis and affinity chromatography indicated that the antithrombin III binding properties of the two fractions were similar.", "contents": "Anticoagulant activities of high and low molecular weight heparin fractions. The anticoagulant activities of high and low molecular weight heparin fractions were measured by three assay methods, both in vitro, and after intravenous injection in volunteers. The low molecular weight (LMW) fraction had similar anti-Xa activity in vitro to the high molecular weight (HMW) fraction, but in APTT assays the HMW fraction was about twice as potent. After intravenous injection, the two fractions gave equal heparin levels by anti-Xa assays, but in APTT assays using synthetic substrate S-2222 gave about 20% lower levels than anti-Xa clotting assays for both heparins. Complete protamine neutralization of the post-injection heparin activity was found in APTT and synthetic substrate assays, but about 20% of the clotting anti-Xa effect could not be neutralized. Complete neutralization of the fractions by protamine was shown by all three assays in vitro. This non-neutralizable activity probably accounts for the difference between the anti-Xa clotting and synthetic substrate assays. Studies by crossed immunoelectrophoresis and affinity chromatography indicated that the antithrombin III binding properties of the two fractions were similar.", "PMID": 435404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2710", "title": "Synthesis of procoagulant factor VIII, factor VIII related antigen and other coagulation factors by the isolated perfused rat liver.", "content": "The synthesis of factor VIII and other coagulation factors has been studied using an isolated, perfused rat liver. Synthetic function of the liver was validated by adding [35S]L-methionine to the perfusion medium and performing two-dimensional crossed immunoelectrophoresis and autoradiography on samples obtained during perfusion. Progressive incorporation of radioactivity into plasma proteins was demonstrated. This was inhibited by cycloheximide. Coagulation factor assays demonstrated synthesis of factors II, IX and X and of factor V and procoagulant factor VIII (VIIIC). Synthesis of factor VIII related antigen (VIIIRAg), measured in an immunoradiometric assay, was not significantly demonstrated. Addition of warfarin to the perfusion medium inhibited the synthesis of factors II, IX and X but not of factors V and VIII. Cycloheximide completely inhibited synthesis of all coagulation factors but actinomycin acted only after a latent period. Reticuloendothelial cell blockade was attempted by adding ethionine to the perfusion medium or by administration of Indian ink to the donor animals prior to removal of the livers. In these instances synthesis of factor V and factor VIIIC was inhibited but not that of factors II, IX and X. The results confirmed the functional capacity of the isolated liver for synthesizing proteins and the vitamin K dependent coagulation factors, and suggested similar kinetic features for the synthesis of factors V and VIIIC. Failure to detect significant VIIIRAg synthesis in these experiments is consistent with the hypothesis that this protein is released by vascular endothelial cells throughout the body and is activated or joined to VIIIC or stimulates its production in the liver.", "contents": "Synthesis of procoagulant factor VIII, factor VIII related antigen and other coagulation factors by the isolated perfused rat liver. The synthesis of factor VIII and other coagulation factors has been studied using an isolated, perfused rat liver. Synthetic function of the liver was validated by adding [35S]L-methionine to the perfusion medium and performing two-dimensional crossed immunoelectrophoresis and autoradiography on samples obtained during perfusion. Progressive incorporation of radioactivity into plasma proteins was demonstrated. This was inhibited by cycloheximide. Coagulation factor assays demonstrated synthesis of factors II, IX and X and of factor V and procoagulant factor VIII (VIIIC). Synthesis of factor VIII related antigen (VIIIRAg), measured in an immunoradiometric assay, was not significantly demonstrated. Addition of warfarin to the perfusion medium inhibited the synthesis of factors II, IX and X but not of factors V and VIII. Cycloheximide completely inhibited synthesis of all coagulation factors but actinomycin acted only after a latent period. Reticuloendothelial cell blockade was attempted by adding ethionine to the perfusion medium or by administration of Indian ink to the donor animals prior to removal of the livers. In these instances synthesis of factor V and factor VIIIC was inhibited but not that of factors II, IX and X. The results confirmed the functional capacity of the isolated liver for synthesizing proteins and the vitamin K dependent coagulation factors, and suggested similar kinetic features for the synthesis of factors V and VIIIC. Failure to detect significant VIIIRAg synthesis in these experiments is consistent with the hypothesis that this protein is released by vascular endothelial cells throughout the body and is activated or joined to VIIIC or stimulates its production in the liver.", "PMID": 435405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2711", "title": "The adrenalin binding site on human platelets.", "content": "Using 3H-adrenalin the quantity and characteristics of the adrenalin receptors on human platelets were evaluated. Maximum adrenalin binding by intact platelets from eight normal subjects averaged 3.2 ng adrenalin/10(8) platelets, equivalent to 105 000 binding sites per platelet. Bound 3H-adrenalin could be dissociated or binding could be inhibited by an excess of unlabelled adrenalin, noradrenalin, isoproterenol or dopamine; phentolamine or propanalol had no effect on 3h-adrenalin binding, even in concentrations 10 000-fold greater. These studies show that the epinephrine binding site can be detected and quantitiated on human platelets and that its characteristics differ from those classically attributed to either alpha or beta adrenergic receptors.", "contents": "The adrenalin binding site on human platelets. Using 3H-adrenalin the quantity and characteristics of the adrenalin receptors on human platelets were evaluated. Maximum adrenalin binding by intact platelets from eight normal subjects averaged 3.2 ng adrenalin/10(8) platelets, equivalent to 105 000 binding sites per platelet. Bound 3H-adrenalin could be dissociated or binding could be inhibited by an excess of unlabelled adrenalin, noradrenalin, isoproterenol or dopamine; phentolamine or propanalol had no effect on 3h-adrenalin binding, even in concentrations 10 000-fold greater. These studies show that the epinephrine binding site can be detected and quantitiated on human platelets and that its characteristics differ from those classically attributed to either alpha or beta adrenergic receptors.", "PMID": 435406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2712", "title": "A retrospective study of induction of labour.", "content": "The labour, delivery and state of the newborn were compared retrospectively in a group of women who had labour induced and a group who started labour spontaneously. There were 200 women at term in each group, individually matched for age, parity and social class and with no medical or obstetric complications prior to labour. The induced group showed a higher incidence of epidural anaesthesia, fetal monitoring and operative delivery. Sixty had forceps deliveries and five had Caesarean sections compared with two forceps deliveries and no Caesarean sections in the 'spontaneous onset' group. The higher incidence of operative deliveries in the induced group was not fully explained by the excess of epidurals and fetal monitoring received. More of the babies born after an induced labour had endotracheal intubation during resuscitation.", "contents": "A retrospective study of induction of labour. The labour, delivery and state of the newborn were compared retrospectively in a group of women who had labour induced and a group who started labour spontaneously. There were 200 women at term in each group, individually matched for age, parity and social class and with no medical or obstetric complications prior to labour. The induced group showed a higher incidence of epidural anaesthesia, fetal monitoring and operative delivery. Sixty had forceps deliveries and five had Caesarean sections compared with two forceps deliveries and no Caesarean sections in the 'spontaneous onset' group. The higher incidence of operative deliveries in the induced group was not fully explained by the excess of epidurals and fetal monitoring received. More of the babies born after an induced labour had endotracheal intubation during resuscitation.", "PMID": 435409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2713", "title": "The technique of fetal electroencephalography during labour.", "content": "A method for recording the fetal electroencephalogram (EEG) during labour is described. Technical specifications for the construction of a suitable electrode are detailed. One hundred and twenty-three patients in labour were monitored using this technique and the success rate of obtaining records for analysis was 91 per cent.", "contents": "The technique of fetal electroencephalography during labour. A method for recording the fetal electroencephalogram (EEG) during labour is described. Technical specifications for the construction of a suitable electrode are detailed. One hundred and twenty-three patients in labour were monitored using this technique and the success rate of obtaining records for analysis was 91 per cent.", "PMID": 435410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2714", "title": "The effect of fetal head compression and fetal acidaemia during labour on human fetal cerebral function as measured by the fetal electroencephalogram.", "content": "We investigated the effect of head compression and acidaemia during labour in 25 African primigravidae. Evidence that head compression had occurred during labour was confirmed by both clinical and radiological means at the end of a trial of labour. No significant difference could be demonstrated in the quantity of fetal electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormality that occurred in the groups with marked head compression as compared to the groups without marked head compression. Deterioration in the fetal EEG to a flat record known as electrocerebral silence (ECS) was associated with the development of acidaemia. As fetal heart rate (FHR) decelerations appeared the percentage of ECS in the fetal EEG record increased significantly (P less than 0.05), and likewise, as fetal acidaemia developed a highly significant increase in ECS in the fetal EEG was demonstrated (P less than 0.001). We concluded that in the management of trial of labour there was no significant deleterious change in the fetal EEG as a result of head compression, unless fetal acidaemia supervened. However, in the majority of these cases a significant increase in ECS to more than 20 per cent occurred in association with only moderate acidaemia (pH 7.25 to 7.30).", "contents": "The effect of fetal head compression and fetal acidaemia during labour on human fetal cerebral function as measured by the fetal electroencephalogram. We investigated the effect of head compression and acidaemia during labour in 25 African primigravidae. Evidence that head compression had occurred during labour was confirmed by both clinical and radiological means at the end of a trial of labour. No significant difference could be demonstrated in the quantity of fetal electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormality that occurred in the groups with marked head compression as compared to the groups without marked head compression. Deterioration in the fetal EEG to a flat record known as electrocerebral silence (ECS) was associated with the development of acidaemia. As fetal heart rate (FHR) decelerations appeared the percentage of ECS in the fetal EEG record increased significantly (P less than 0.05), and likewise, as fetal acidaemia developed a highly significant increase in ECS in the fetal EEG was demonstrated (P less than 0.001). We concluded that in the management of trial of labour there was no significant deleterious change in the fetal EEG as a result of head compression, unless fetal acidaemia supervened. However, in the majority of these cases a significant increase in ECS to more than 20 per cent occurred in association with only moderate acidaemia (pH 7.25 to 7.30).", "PMID": 435411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2715", "title": "Real-time ultrasound observation of fetal activity in labour.", "content": "Fetal activity was observed by realtime ultrasound for one hour in 25 patients in labour. Fetal respiratory movement, although reduced compared to the antenatal period, was observed in 13 patients. In three patients, hiccough-like movements were noted. Fetal body and/or extremity movements were observed in all patients (mean 41/hour) and frequently occurred in episodes. These bursts of movements were significantly correlated with contractions and fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations. There was a significant association between absent or reduced number of fetal respiratory movements and/or hiccoughs (10 or less/hour) and an abnormal FHR. Absence of any type of fetal activity was also significantly associated with an abnormal FHR. The correlation between fetal activity and conventional methods of fetal assessment is discussed.", "contents": "Real-time ultrasound observation of fetal activity in labour. Fetal activity was observed by realtime ultrasound for one hour in 25 patients in labour. Fetal respiratory movement, although reduced compared to the antenatal period, was observed in 13 patients. In three patients, hiccough-like movements were noted. Fetal body and/or extremity movements were observed in all patients (mean 41/hour) and frequently occurred in episodes. These bursts of movements were significantly correlated with contractions and fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations. There was a significant association between absent or reduced number of fetal respiratory movements and/or hiccoughs (10 or less/hour) and an abnormal FHR. Absence of any type of fetal activity was also significantly associated with an abnormal FHR. The correlation between fetal activity and conventional methods of fetal assessment is discussed.", "PMID": 435412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2716", "title": "Prostaglandins in umbilical plasma at elective caesarean section.", "content": "Prostaglandin E (PGE), prostaglandin F (PGF) and 13,14-dihydro-15-ketoprostaglandin F (PGFM) have been measured in umbilical cord plasma obtained immediately after delivery by elective Caesarean section. Umbilical venous plasma levels of PGE were significantly greater than the corresponding arterial levels (p less than 0.02); there were no significant arterio-venous differences for PGF or PGFM. In general, concentrations of PGFM exceeded those of PGE which in turn were greater than concentrations of PGF. Umbilical venous levels of PGE and both arterial and venous levels of PGF and PGFM were significantly greater after spontaneous labour with vaginal delivery than after elective Caesarean section.", "contents": "Prostaglandins in umbilical plasma at elective caesarean section. Prostaglandin E (PGE), prostaglandin F (PGF) and 13,14-dihydro-15-ketoprostaglandin F (PGFM) have been measured in umbilical cord plasma obtained immediately after delivery by elective Caesarean section. Umbilical venous plasma levels of PGE were significantly greater than the corresponding arterial levels (p less than 0.02); there were no significant arterio-venous differences for PGF or PGFM. In general, concentrations of PGFM exceeded those of PGE which in turn were greater than concentrations of PGF. Umbilical venous levels of PGE and both arterial and venous levels of PGF and PGFM were significantly greater after spontaneous labour with vaginal delivery than after elective Caesarean section.", "PMID": 435413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2717", "title": "Sequential changes in the human renin-angiotensin system following therapeutic termination of pregnancy.", "content": "Plasma renin and angiotensin II levels were measured in nine patients immediately before and at half-hourly intervals in the four hours following therapeutic termination of pregnancy. There was a small fall in renin and angiotensin II levels over the first 1 to 2 hours, followed by a slight increase. The magnitude of these effects was much smaller than those previously seen following normal delivery. It is concluded that in early pregnancy maternal, rather than feto-placental, factors are controlling the renin-angiotensin system.", "contents": "Sequential changes in the human renin-angiotensin system following therapeutic termination of pregnancy. Plasma renin and angiotensin II levels were measured in nine patients immediately before and at half-hourly intervals in the four hours following therapeutic termination of pregnancy. There was a small fall in renin and angiotensin II levels over the first 1 to 2 hours, followed by a slight increase. The magnitude of these effects was much smaller than those previously seen following normal delivery. It is concluded that in early pregnancy maternal, rather than feto-placental, factors are controlling the renin-angiotensin system.", "PMID": 435414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2718", "title": "Ultrasound evidence of early pregnancy failure in patients with multiple conceptions.", "content": "I report a review of 1500 pregnant patients: 30 of them (or 1 in 50) were thought to have multiple pregnancies when examined by ultrasound in the first trimester. Only 14 of the 30 patients (46.7 per cent) produced live infants: 13 twins and one set of triplets. Twelve (40 per cent) had bleeding in early pregnancy and 11 of these had a spontaneous abortion. Five of seven patients found to have a normal pregnancy and a coexistent blighted ovum, ultimately delivered a single live infant.", "contents": "Ultrasound evidence of early pregnancy failure in patients with multiple conceptions. I report a review of 1500 pregnant patients: 30 of them (or 1 in 50) were thought to have multiple pregnancies when examined by ultrasound in the first trimester. Only 14 of the 30 patients (46.7 per cent) produced live infants: 13 twins and one set of triplets. Twelve (40 per cent) had bleeding in early pregnancy and 11 of these had a spontaneous abortion. Five of seven patients found to have a normal pregnancy and a coexistent blighted ovum, ultimately delivered a single live infant.", "PMID": 435415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2719", "title": "Prenatal and postnatal maternal leucocyte ascorbic acid concentrations.", "content": "Leucocyte ascorbic acid was measured in 79 pregnant women in the 34th to 38th week of gestation and on the first, and third or fifth days post partum. No differences were found for time of year or age of the subjects. There was a significantly lower vitamin C status in social classes IV and V. The leucocyte ascorbic acid concentration fell significantly on the first day post partum and rose again to initial values by the fifth day. In late pregnancy 40 per cent of all subjects had leucocyte ascorbic acid concentrations less than the lower limit of normal (100 nmol/10(8) leucocytes). This rose to 75 per cent on the first day post partum.", "contents": "Prenatal and postnatal maternal leucocyte ascorbic acid concentrations. Leucocyte ascorbic acid was measured in 79 pregnant women in the 34th to 38th week of gestation and on the first, and third or fifth days post partum. No differences were found for time of year or age of the subjects. There was a significantly lower vitamin C status in social classes IV and V. The leucocyte ascorbic acid concentration fell significantly on the first day post partum and rose again to initial values by the fifth day. In late pregnancy 40 per cent of all subjects had leucocyte ascorbic acid concentrations less than the lower limit of normal (100 nmol/10(8) leucocytes). This rose to 75 per cent on the first day post partum.", "PMID": 435416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2720", "title": "Effect of intrauterine contraceptive device on uterine haemostasis: a morphological study.", "content": "The effect of the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) on uterine haemostasis was studied at various stages of the menstrual cycle in a series of 46 patients by light- and electron-microscopy and by following the distribution of an infusion of 51Cr-labelled autologous platelets. The endometrium in contact with the IUCD in the majority of cases showed grooving with atrophy and mild chronic inflammation in the surrounding tissues. The adjacent stroma also showed increased vascularity and occasional foci of haemorrhage but the increased blood loss associated with the presence of the IUCD could not be attributed to mechanical erosion or stromal blood vessels by the device. During menstruation the presence of an IUCD does not appear to inhibit the formation of fibrin/platelet thrombi although both in control and IUCD patients there was a striking paucity of platelet/fibrin thrombi in circumstances where their formation should be enhanced. In contrast to other workers we have not observed that gaps or breaks in the endothelial lining of endometrial blood vessels occur with any greater frequency in patients fitted with an IUCD. The principal mechanism by which uterine haemostasis is achieved remains to be established.", "contents": "Effect of intrauterine contraceptive device on uterine haemostasis: a morphological study. The effect of the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) on uterine haemostasis was studied at various stages of the menstrual cycle in a series of 46 patients by light- and electron-microscopy and by following the distribution of an infusion of 51Cr-labelled autologous platelets. The endometrium in contact with the IUCD in the majority of cases showed grooving with atrophy and mild chronic inflammation in the surrounding tissues. The adjacent stroma also showed increased vascularity and occasional foci of haemorrhage but the increased blood loss associated with the presence of the IUCD could not be attributed to mechanical erosion or stromal blood vessels by the device. During menstruation the presence of an IUCD does not appear to inhibit the formation of fibrin/platelet thrombi although both in control and IUCD patients there was a striking paucity of platelet/fibrin thrombi in circumstances where their formation should be enhanced. In contrast to other workers we have not observed that gaps or breaks in the endothelial lining of endometrial blood vessels occur with any greater frequency in patients fitted with an IUCD. The principal mechanism by which uterine haemostasis is achieved remains to be established.", "PMID": 435419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2721", "title": "Vascular changes in the iris in chronic anterior uveitis.", "content": "Vascular changes of the iris were studied in 6 patients with chronic anterior uveitis of varying aetiology by means of fluorescein angiography. In 1 case the angiographic findings of the second eye were compared with the histopathological changes in the fellow eye enucleated earlier because of absolute glaucoma. In the milder cases abnormal superficial vessels were seen mainly in relation to the minor arterial circle of the iris, while in advanced cases a coarse vascular network covered the whole surface of the iris. Both mild and severe changes were found to differ from the arborising type of neovascularisation usually seen in vascular eye diseases. Instead, a resemblance in the vascular pattern was found between some of these cases and eyes with chronic capsular glaucoma. In 1 patient clinical rubeosis seemed to be partly due to dilatation of the pre-existing capillaries rather than true neovascularisation.", "contents": "Vascular changes in the iris in chronic anterior uveitis. Vascular changes of the iris were studied in 6 patients with chronic anterior uveitis of varying aetiology by means of fluorescein angiography. In 1 case the angiographic findings of the second eye were compared with the histopathological changes in the fellow eye enucleated earlier because of absolute glaucoma. In the milder cases abnormal superficial vessels were seen mainly in relation to the minor arterial circle of the iris, while in advanced cases a coarse vascular network covered the whole surface of the iris. Both mild and severe changes were found to differ from the arborising type of neovascularisation usually seen in vascular eye diseases. Instead, a resemblance in the vascular pattern was found between some of these cases and eyes with chronic capsular glaucoma. In 1 patient clinical rubeosis seemed to be partly due to dilatation of the pre-existing capillaries rather than true neovascularisation.", "PMID": 435422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2722", "title": "Development and classification of rubeosis iridis in diabetic eye disease.", "content": "The evolution and characteristics of diabetic rubeosis were studied in 33 eyes, and the following vascular abnormalities were found: (1) Dilated leaking capillaries around the pupil; (2) irregular or slow filling of the radial arteries; (3) superficial arborising newly formed vessels, usually starting in the chamber angle; and (4) dilatation and leakage of the radial vessels either before or after the development of neovascular glaucoma. None of the vascular changes was specific for diabetes. Four grades of diabetic iridopathy were distinguished on the extent of rubeosis: I, peripupillary vessel dilatations with leakage; II, early neovascularisation mainly in the chamber angle; III, prominent rubeosis with or without neovascular glaucoma; and IV, florid rubeosis.", "contents": "Development and classification of rubeosis iridis in diabetic eye disease. The evolution and characteristics of diabetic rubeosis were studied in 33 eyes, and the following vascular abnormalities were found: (1) Dilated leaking capillaries around the pupil; (2) irregular or slow filling of the radial arteries; (3) superficial arborising newly formed vessels, usually starting in the chamber angle; and (4) dilatation and leakage of the radial vessels either before or after the development of neovascular glaucoma. None of the vascular changes was specific for diabetes. Four grades of diabetic iridopathy were distinguished on the extent of rubeosis: I, peripupillary vessel dilatations with leakage; II, early neovascularisation mainly in the chamber angle; III, prominent rubeosis with or without neovascular glaucoma; and IV, florid rubeosis.", "PMID": 435423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2723", "title": "Value of fluorescein iridography in diagnosis of tumours of the iridociliary zone.", "content": "Fluorescein iridoangiography of 33 eyes with benign tumours and 22 eyes with malignant tumours is discussed. In cases of leiomyoma the tumour vessels have a distinct pattern, and fluorescence of the tumour tissue is mottled and short-lived. Malignant tumours are characterised by distortion of their vessels. Simultaneously the patches of fluorescence appear in the tissue of the tumour and lead to a diffuse confluence. Changes in the architecture of the vessels of the iris near the tumour and absence of fluorescence at the pupil margin indicate growth of the neoplasm.", "contents": "Value of fluorescein iridography in diagnosis of tumours of the iridociliary zone. Fluorescein iridoangiography of 33 eyes with benign tumours and 22 eyes with malignant tumours is discussed. In cases of leiomyoma the tumour vessels have a distinct pattern, and fluorescence of the tumour tissue is mottled and short-lived. Malignant tumours are characterised by distortion of their vessels. Simultaneously the patches of fluorescence appear in the tissue of the tumour and lead to a diffuse confluence. Changes in the architecture of the vessels of the iris near the tumour and absence of fluorescence at the pupil margin indicate growth of the neoplasm.", "PMID": 435424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2724", "title": "Postinflammatory and malignant protein patterns in aqueous humour.", "content": "Normal aqueous humour and the aqueous humour of patients with cataract is virtually protein-free. Patients having retinoblastoma and non-malignant postinflammatory lesions show significantly high quantities of proteins in the aqueous humour. Retinoblastoma is associated with an increase in the globulin content and an albumin/globulin ratio below unity, while non-malignant postinflammatory intraocular conditions show a rise of the albumin fraction with an albumin/globulin ratio above unity. It seems likely that the leakage of protein into the aqueous is different in the two conditions, and a transcellular route is postulated as being the cause in malignant conditions. The estimation of protein patterns in the aqueous humour may be of value in the diagnosis of intraocular malignancy.", "contents": "Postinflammatory and malignant protein patterns in aqueous humour. Normal aqueous humour and the aqueous humour of patients with cataract is virtually protein-free. Patients having retinoblastoma and non-malignant postinflammatory lesions show significantly high quantities of proteins in the aqueous humour. Retinoblastoma is associated with an increase in the globulin content and an albumin/globulin ratio below unity, while non-malignant postinflammatory intraocular conditions show a rise of the albumin fraction with an albumin/globulin ratio above unity. It seems likely that the leakage of protein into the aqueous is different in the two conditions, and a transcellular route is postulated as being the cause in malignant conditions. The estimation of protein patterns in the aqueous humour may be of value in the diagnosis of intraocular malignancy.", "PMID": 435425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2725", "title": "Primary cutaneous malignant melanoma metastatic to the iris.", "content": "We describe a case of cutaneous malignant melanoma metastatic to the iris as the first presenting sign of metastases 10 years after excision of the primary tumour. The histology of the excised iris metastases and the primary skin melanoma are compared. Progressive intracranial metastatic growth did not correlate with the observed regression of the residual intraocular melanoma cells during cyclical cytotoxic therapy.", "contents": "Primary cutaneous malignant melanoma metastatic to the iris. We describe a case of cutaneous malignant melanoma metastatic to the iris as the first presenting sign of metastases 10 years after excision of the primary tumour. The histology of the excised iris metastases and the primary skin melanoma are compared. Progressive intracranial metastatic growth did not correlate with the observed regression of the residual intraocular melanoma cells during cyclical cytotoxic therapy.", "PMID": 435426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2726", "title": "Thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the globe.", "content": "We report a case of thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the globe. In our survey we found thyroid carcinomas to metastasise to the eye rarely. In addition, we found metastases from the thyroid to be more common to the orbit than to the globe--a reverse of the pattern noted with tumours in general.", "contents": "Thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the globe. We report a case of thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the globe. In our survey we found thyroid carcinomas to metastasise to the eye rarely. In addition, we found metastases from the thyroid to be more common to the orbit than to the globe--a reverse of the pattern noted with tumours in general.", "PMID": 435427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2727", "title": "Epipalpebral conjunctival osseous choristoma.", "content": "Two cases of osseous choristoma are described. One of the tumours was found in the conjunctiva of the right lower lid, an apparently unique location. The other more typical epibulbar tumour was found in the superior temporal quadrant of the episclera between the lateral and superior rectus muscles. In both instances the tumour was suspected of being a dermoid.", "contents": "Epipalpebral conjunctival osseous choristoma. Two cases of osseous choristoma are described. One of the tumours was found in the conjunctiva of the right lower lid, an apparently unique location. The other more typical epibulbar tumour was found in the superior temporal quadrant of the episclera between the lateral and superior rectus muscles. In both instances the tumour was suspected of being a dermoid.", "PMID": 435428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2728", "title": "Scleral and choroidal calcifications in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism.", "content": "This case report suggests that calcifications in the sclera and choroid may be a feature of pseudohypoparathyroidism and shows a calcium distribution more extensive and severe than that characteristically seen in other metabolic conditions associated with calcium deposits in the eye. Ocular ectopic calcification is a part of the more generalised ectopic soft tissue calcification seen with pseudohypoparathyroidism. Evaluation of the contribution of the terminal renal failure and uraemia to the ectopic ocular calcification would require sequential evaluation of eyes with pseudohypoparathyroidism, but without the added complication of uraemia.", "contents": "Scleral and choroidal calcifications in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism. This case report suggests that calcifications in the sclera and choroid may be a feature of pseudohypoparathyroidism and shows a calcium distribution more extensive and severe than that characteristically seen in other metabolic conditions associated with calcium deposits in the eye. Ocular ectopic calcification is a part of the more generalised ectopic soft tissue calcification seen with pseudohypoparathyroidism. Evaluation of the contribution of the terminal renal failure and uraemia to the ectopic ocular calcification would require sequential evaluation of eyes with pseudohypoparathyroidism, but without the added complication of uraemia.", "PMID": 435429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2729", "title": "Convolution in human rods: an ageing process.", "content": "In a morphological survey of 73 human retinae spanning 9 decades, and including 20 retinae which were obtained from eyes enucleated for malignant melanomas, nodular excrescences were noted in the outer segments of rods with an incidence which increased with age. These structures were sectioned in both their vertical and horizontal axes and on electron microscopical examination were seen to result from the localised convolution of affected outer segments. The topographic morphology of such convolutions is described and their modes of formation are discussed.", "contents": "Convolution in human rods: an ageing process. In a morphological survey of 73 human retinae spanning 9 decades, and including 20 retinae which were obtained from eyes enucleated for malignant melanomas, nodular excrescences were noted in the outer segments of rods with an incidence which increased with age. These structures were sectioned in both their vertical and horizontal axes and on electron microscopical examination were seen to result from the localised convolution of affected outer segments. The topographic morphology of such convolutions is described and their modes of formation are discussed.", "PMID": 435430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2730", "title": "Optic neuropathy in ketogenic diet.", "content": "A symmetrical, bilateral optic neuropathy is reported in 2 patients being treated with ketogenic diets for seizure control. Laboratory tests suggested a thiamine deficiency, and both patients recovered normal visual function after several weeks of treatment with thiamine. The risk of optic nerve dysfunction occurring during the treatment with a ketogenic diet can be minimised if routine vitamin B supplements are given and periodic evaluation of optic nerve function undertaken.", "contents": "Optic neuropathy in ketogenic diet. A symmetrical, bilateral optic neuropathy is reported in 2 patients being treated with ketogenic diets for seizure control. Laboratory tests suggested a thiamine deficiency, and both patients recovered normal visual function after several weeks of treatment with thiamine. The risk of optic nerve dysfunction occurring during the treatment with a ketogenic diet can be minimised if routine vitamin B supplements are given and periodic evaluation of optic nerve function undertaken.", "PMID": 435431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2731", "title": "Assessment of unilateral afferent pupillary defects by pupillography.", "content": "A pupillographic technique, an adaptation of the swinging light test, is described for the measurement of unilateral afferent pupillary defects. In normal persons it yielded accurate, reproducible estimates of the magnitude of artificial afferent defects made with neutral filters of 1 to 4 log units density. In 15 studies on 8 patients with unilateral optic neuritis and 2 with unilateral compressive lesions the measured afferent pupillary defects correlated closely with both visual acuity and visual threshold deficits. Measurement of the pupillary defect underestimated severe degrees of impairment revealed by visual threshold determination. Discrepancies between pupillary defect and visual acuity were observed in the 2 patients with compressive lesions and in 1 patient who had a central scotoma 4 months after an attack of optic neuritis.", "contents": "Assessment of unilateral afferent pupillary defects by pupillography. A pupillographic technique, an adaptation of the swinging light test, is described for the measurement of unilateral afferent pupillary defects. In normal persons it yielded accurate, reproducible estimates of the magnitude of artificial afferent defects made with neutral filters of 1 to 4 log units density. In 15 studies on 8 patients with unilateral optic neuritis and 2 with unilateral compressive lesions the measured afferent pupillary defects correlated closely with both visual acuity and visual threshold deficits. Measurement of the pupillary defect underestimated severe degrees of impairment revealed by visual threshold determination. Discrepancies between pupillary defect and visual acuity were observed in the 2 patients with compressive lesions and in 1 patient who had a central scotoma 4 months after an attack of optic neuritis.", "PMID": 435432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2732", "title": "Pituitary adenoma and orbital haemangioma: a case report.", "content": "A 43-year-old woman with a pituitary tumour had unexplained right proptosis. Orbital x-rays and ultrasound were normal, but computed tomography showed an intraconal tumour, which had typical features of a cavernous haemangioma on carotid angiography. Both tumours were resected and confirmed histologically.", "contents": "Pituitary adenoma and orbital haemangioma: a case report. A 43-year-old woman with a pituitary tumour had unexplained right proptosis. Orbital x-rays and ultrasound were normal, but computed tomography showed an intraconal tumour, which had typical features of a cavernous haemangioma on carotid angiography. Both tumours were resected and confirmed histologically.", "PMID": 435433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2733", "title": "A new method of estimating the depth of the anterior chamber.", "content": "A new method of estimating the depth of the anterior chamber with an accuracy of approximately 0-1 mm is described. The estimate is made with a conventional Haag-Streit 900 slit lamp without any extra attachments.", "contents": "A new method of estimating the depth of the anterior chamber. A new method of estimating the depth of the anterior chamber with an accuracy of approximately 0-1 mm is described. The estimate is made with a conventional Haag-Streit 900 slit lamp without any extra attachments.", "PMID": 435435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2734", "title": "One gonioscopic fallacy.", "content": "Traditional gonioscopic practice assumes that, if most of the angle is gonioscopically closed, intraocular pressure increases. Evidence is produced to show that this is fallacious, because at its inception angle closure is iridocorneal contact occurring on the corneal side of the limbus. Although the angle cannot be seen by means of a gonioscope, there is initially no iridotrabecular contact. It is only after pressure increases that iris is pushed against trabecular meshwork and the angle is truly closed.", "contents": "One gonioscopic fallacy. Traditional gonioscopic practice assumes that, if most of the angle is gonioscopically closed, intraocular pressure increases. Evidence is produced to show that this is fallacious, because at its inception angle closure is iridocorneal contact occurring on the corneal side of the limbus. Although the angle cannot be seen by means of a gonioscope, there is initially no iridotrabecular contact. It is only after pressure increases that iris is pushed against trabecular meshwork and the angle is truly closed.", "PMID": 435436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2735", "title": "Comparison of the pupillary, refractive, and hypotensive effects of Ocusert-40 and pilocarpine eyedrops in the treatment of chronic simple glaucoma.", "content": "Twelve patients with chronic simple glaucoma were treated for 1 week with Ocusert-40, and the effects on the pupil, intraocular pressure, and refraction were measured. A comparison was made with the effects of pilocarpine eyedrop therapy in 8 of these patients. Both forms of pilocarpine treatment gave satisfactory control of intraocular pressure and both constricted the pupil to a similar degree shortly after initiation of treatment. During the week on Ocusert-40 the pupils redilated, so that 54% of the initial miosis remained after 7 days' wear. There was, however, considerable variability in the pupillary sensitivity to Ocusert-40 within and between eyes, and it is suggested that this may have been partly due to variable release rates of pilocarpine. Only minor decreases in visual acuity and refraction resulted from pilocarpine in either form. Seven of the 12 patients rejected Ocusert-40 because of discomfort or inability to retain the device.", "contents": "Comparison of the pupillary, refractive, and hypotensive effects of Ocusert-40 and pilocarpine eyedrops in the treatment of chronic simple glaucoma. Twelve patients with chronic simple glaucoma were treated for 1 week with Ocusert-40, and the effects on the pupil, intraocular pressure, and refraction were measured. A comparison was made with the effects of pilocarpine eyedrop therapy in 8 of these patients. Both forms of pilocarpine treatment gave satisfactory control of intraocular pressure and both constricted the pupil to a similar degree shortly after initiation of treatment. During the week on Ocusert-40 the pupils redilated, so that 54% of the initial miosis remained after 7 days' wear. There was, however, considerable variability in the pupillary sensitivity to Ocusert-40 within and between eyes, and it is suggested that this may have been partly due to variable release rates of pilocarpine. Only minor decreases in visual acuity and refraction resulted from pilocarpine in either form. Seven of the 12 patients rejected Ocusert-40 because of discomfort or inability to retain the device.", "PMID": 435437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2736", "title": "Transient ocular hypertension following trabeculectomy.", "content": "A study of the postoperative evolution of 70 eyes subjected to trabeculectomy over a 3-year period is reported. This is the operation of choice in our department in cases of chronic open-angle glaucoma and chronic angle-closure glaucoma. The study showed that in 35.7% of the operated eyes the intraocular pressure was increased on the second postoperative day and became normal within a week. This raised intraocular pressure did not influence the final result of the operation.", "contents": "Transient ocular hypertension following trabeculectomy. A study of the postoperative evolution of 70 eyes subjected to trabeculectomy over a 3-year period is reported. This is the operation of choice in our department in cases of chronic open-angle glaucoma and chronic angle-closure glaucoma. The study showed that in 35.7% of the operated eyes the intraocular pressure was increased on the second postoperative day and became normal within a week. This raised intraocular pressure did not influence the final result of the operation.", "PMID": 435438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2737", "title": "Amblyopia: the need for a new approach?", "content": "Follow-up of a series of 221 children identified by the present methods of screening, and presenting consecutively with squint and/or amblyopia, shows that there has been no demonstrable improvement in the overall incidence and severity of amblyopia 3 or more years later. A new approach to the problem is required, and this might be based on the identification and treatment of amblyopia during the 'sensitive period'.", "contents": "Amblyopia: the need for a new approach? Follow-up of a series of 221 children identified by the present methods of screening, and presenting consecutively with squint and/or amblyopia, shows that there has been no demonstrable improvement in the overall incidence and severity of amblyopia 3 or more years later. A new approach to the problem is required, and this might be based on the identification and treatment of amblyopia during the 'sensitive period'.", "PMID": 435439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2738", "title": "Refraction as a means of predicting squint or amblyopia in preschool siblings of children known to have these defects.", "content": "215 preschool siblings of children presenting with squint/amblyopia were screened by refraction after cycloplegia. The presence of +2.00 or more D of spherical hypermetropia in both eyes, or +1.00 or more D sphere or cylinder of anisometropia was significantly associated (P=0.0779%) with that child being identified 2+ years later as having either squint or amblyopia or both. Astigmatism of +1.50 or more D in either eye was significantly associated with anisometropia (P=0.000 0013%). If bilateral hypermetropia of +2.00 or more DS and/or +1.50 or more D of astigmatism in either eye had been taken as criteria for abnormality (ignoring anisometropia), there was a more significant association (P=0.0025%) between refraction and squint/amblyopia in these siblings. Such a child had 4 times more chance of having a visual defect than one who had no error of refraction when screened. These findings suggest that an environmental factor such as blurred vision may be relatively more important as a cause of squint/amblyopia than a genetically determined neurological abnormality.", "contents": "Refraction as a means of predicting squint or amblyopia in preschool siblings of children known to have these defects. 215 preschool siblings of children presenting with squint/amblyopia were screened by refraction after cycloplegia. The presence of +2.00 or more D of spherical hypermetropia in both eyes, or +1.00 or more D sphere or cylinder of anisometropia was significantly associated (P=0.0779%) with that child being identified 2+ years later as having either squint or amblyopia or both. Astigmatism of +1.50 or more D in either eye was significantly associated with anisometropia (P=0.000 0013%). If bilateral hypermetropia of +2.00 or more DS and/or +1.50 or more D of astigmatism in either eye had been taken as criteria for abnormality (ignoring anisometropia), there was a more significant association (P=0.0025%) between refraction and squint/amblyopia in these siblings. Such a child had 4 times more chance of having a visual defect than one who had no error of refraction when screened. These findings suggest that an environmental factor such as blurred vision may be relatively more important as a cause of squint/amblyopia than a genetically determined neurological abnormality.", "PMID": 435440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2739", "title": "Screening for refractive errors at age 1 year: a pilot study.", "content": "Cycloplegic refraction of 1-year-old children is technically possible and is acceptable to mothers as a method for screening children for visual defects. The range of refractions found in a sample of 186 1-year-old children is reported. Prediction of which children are significantly at risk for squint and/or amblyopia is possible on the basis of refractions at age 1 year according to the criteria selected for an 'abnormal' refraction. Bilateral hypermetropia and/or astigmatism or anisometropia at age 1 year was significantly (P less than 1 in 10 000) associated with a child eventually being found to have squint or amblyopia. Both the age of screening and criteria of abnormality will probably need modification. +2.50 or more D hypermetropia in any one meridian of either eye at age 1 year was even more significantly (P = 0.000 000 05%) associated with squint and/or amblyopia. The possibility that meridional hypermetropia could be the basic defect in squint and amblyopia is discussed.", "contents": "Screening for refractive errors at age 1 year: a pilot study. Cycloplegic refraction of 1-year-old children is technically possible and is acceptable to mothers as a method for screening children for visual defects. The range of refractions found in a sample of 186 1-year-old children is reported. Prediction of which children are significantly at risk for squint and/or amblyopia is possible on the basis of refractions at age 1 year according to the criteria selected for an 'abnormal' refraction. Bilateral hypermetropia and/or astigmatism or anisometropia at age 1 year was significantly (P less than 1 in 10 000) associated with a child eventually being found to have squint or amblyopia. Both the age of screening and criteria of abnormality will probably need modification. +2.50 or more D hypermetropia in any one meridian of either eye at age 1 year was even more significantly (P = 0.000 000 05%) associated with squint and/or amblyopia. The possibility that meridional hypermetropia could be the basic defect in squint and amblyopia is discussed.", "PMID": 435441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2740", "title": "Uptake and loss of tears from filter paper discs employed in lysozyme tests.", "content": "Aspects of the use of filter paper discs in collecting tear samples for lysozyme tests were studied by serial weighings of bijoux bottles and tear-moistened discs. Blotted discs carried from 1.9 to 3.6 mg tears, but for practical purposes no deposit was left in the bottle. Unblotted discs carried a greater quantity of tear fluid, but the majority deposited a proportion of this in the bottle, and a correcting factor is therefore proposed for the lysozyme assay technique of Mackie and Seal. Substantial vaporisation of tears occurred within the bottles.", "contents": "Uptake and loss of tears from filter paper discs employed in lysozyme tests. Aspects of the use of filter paper discs in collecting tear samples for lysozyme tests were studied by serial weighings of bijoux bottles and tear-moistened discs. Blotted discs carried from 1.9 to 3.6 mg tears, but for practical purposes no deposit was left in the bottle. Unblotted discs carried a greater quantity of tear fluid, but the majority deposited a proportion of this in the bottle, and a correcting factor is therefore proposed for the lysozyme assay technique of Mackie and Seal. Substantial vaporisation of tears occurred within the bottles.", "PMID": 435442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2741", "title": "Isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis from eye secretion (tears).", "content": "Shedding of Chlamydia trachomatis in the eye secretion (tears) of patients with either hyperendemic trachoma or paratrachoma was studied. The method of collection of eye secretion with cellulose sponges is proved to be simple, faster, and more practicable and yielded a higher rate of chlamydial isolation than aspiration. The chlamydial isolation rates in eye secretion in chlamydia-positive paratrachoma patients in London or trachoma patients in Iran was 84 and 49% respectively. It was found that the chlamydial isolation rate from eye secretion is directly related to the number of inclusions present in the conjunctival swabbings. The results of this study indicated that patients with moderate to severe hyperendemic trachoma or paratrachoma are the main reservoir of infection. In the developing countries of the Middle East and Africa the shedding of chlamydia in the eye secretion of persons with these diseases is a major factor in the transmission of them by means of flies, fingers, towels, or bed clothes.", "contents": "Isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis from eye secretion (tears). Shedding of Chlamydia trachomatis in the eye secretion (tears) of patients with either hyperendemic trachoma or paratrachoma was studied. The method of collection of eye secretion with cellulose sponges is proved to be simple, faster, and more practicable and yielded a higher rate of chlamydial isolation than aspiration. The chlamydial isolation rates in eye secretion in chlamydia-positive paratrachoma patients in London or trachoma patients in Iran was 84 and 49% respectively. It was found that the chlamydial isolation rate from eye secretion is directly related to the number of inclusions present in the conjunctival swabbings. The results of this study indicated that patients with moderate to severe hyperendemic trachoma or paratrachoma are the main reservoir of infection. In the developing countries of the Middle East and Africa the shedding of chlamydia in the eye secretion of persons with these diseases is a major factor in the transmission of them by means of flies, fingers, towels, or bed clothes.", "PMID": 435443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2742", "title": "Herpetic canalicular obstruction.", "content": "Viral infection is a common cause of acquired obstruction of the lacrimal canalicular system. A series of 20 patients with canalicular obstruction attributable to infection with herpes simplex is reported, and 1 case is described in detail.", "contents": "Herpetic canalicular obstruction. Viral infection is a common cause of acquired obstruction of the lacrimal canalicular system. A series of 20 patients with canalicular obstruction attributable to infection with herpes simplex is reported, and 1 case is described in detail.", "PMID": 435444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2743", "title": "An aid to successful probing of the nasolacrimal duct.", "content": "An electrical method is described for confirming the entry into the nose of a nasolacrimal probe.", "contents": "An aid to successful probing of the nasolacrimal duct. An electrical method is described for confirming the entry into the nose of a nasolacrimal probe.", "PMID": 435445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2744", "title": "Corneal thickness in extended wear of soft contact lenses.", "content": "The continual wearing of a soft contact lens for a period of 20 weeks is shown to produce no significant evidence of corneal swelling, although the use of soft lenses in conjunction with a topically applied solution is shown to produce evidence of transient swelling. The extent of corneal thinning during waking hours is also shown to be reduced among wearers of contact lenses for long periods.", "contents": "Corneal thickness in extended wear of soft contact lenses. The continual wearing of a soft contact lens for a period of 20 weeks is shown to produce no significant evidence of corneal swelling, although the use of soft lenses in conjunction with a topically applied solution is shown to produce evidence of transient swelling. The extent of corneal thinning during waking hours is also shown to be reduced among wearers of contact lenses for long periods.", "PMID": 435446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2745", "title": "Studies of the composition of purified Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor and of its subunits.", "content": "Under conditions that limit proteolytic degradation, the detergent-solubilized purified receptor protein from Torpedo californica exists in monomeric and dimeric forms. The purified receptor complex is composed of four different polypeptide subunits of apparent molecular weights 40 000, 50 000, 60 000, and 65 000. The individual polypeptides have been purified and their amino acid compositions have shown them to be relatively hydrophobic. In addition, the carbohydrate composition of the intact receptor complex and of the individual polypeptides has been determined. Amino acid analysis provided evidence for the occurrence of a component with chromatographic properties similar to those of phosphoserine. Treatment of receptor with CH3NH2 in base, a condition which provided quantitative modification of O-phosphoserine residues in beta-casein, completely eliminated the peak corresponding to phosphoserine following mild acid hydrolysis. We conclude that the receptor contains O-phosphoserine residues to the extent of approximately seven residues per molecule and these residues occur in all constituent polypeptides. Other forms of O-substituted serine and threonine were also shown to occur, most likely as glycosylated residues.", "contents": "Studies of the composition of purified Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor and of its subunits. Under conditions that limit proteolytic degradation, the detergent-solubilized purified receptor protein from Torpedo californica exists in monomeric and dimeric forms. The purified receptor complex is composed of four different polypeptide subunits of apparent molecular weights 40 000, 50 000, 60 000, and 65 000. The individual polypeptides have been purified and their amino acid compositions have shown them to be relatively hydrophobic. In addition, the carbohydrate composition of the intact receptor complex and of the individual polypeptides has been determined. Amino acid analysis provided evidence for the occurrence of a component with chromatographic properties similar to those of phosphoserine. Treatment of receptor with CH3NH2 in base, a condition which provided quantitative modification of O-phosphoserine residues in beta-casein, completely eliminated the peak corresponding to phosphoserine following mild acid hydrolysis. We conclude that the receptor contains O-phosphoserine residues to the extent of approximately seven residues per molecule and these residues occur in all constituent polypeptides. Other forms of O-substituted serine and threonine were also shown to occur, most likely as glycosylated residues.", "PMID": 435447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2746", "title": "Uses of fluorescent cholinergic analogues to study binding sites for cholinergic ligands in Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor.", "content": "A series of synthetic 1,n-bis(3-aminopyridinio)-alkane fluorescent probes have been used to determine the ligand binding properties of the acetylcholine receptor purified from Torpedo californica electroplax. At equilibrium, the probes bound to a single class of sites. The binding affinity of the fluorescent decamethonium analogues increased progressively as the number of methylene groups (n) increased from 4 to 12 and decreased in the range of 16--18 such groups. The receptor bound 1,12-bis(3-aminopyridinio)dodecane and 1,14-bis(3-aminopyridinio)tetradecane with the highest affinity while related monofunctional probes such as 1-(3-amino-pyridinio)propane were bound with a substantially lower affinity. The data indicate that the receptor interacts strongly with both ends of a bifunctional probe such as 1,14-bis(3-aminopyridinio)tetradecane. Also, competition between bifunctional fluorescent probe binding and the binding of conventional cholinergic ligands, was investigated and led to the conclusion that the probes, which are antagonists, form ternary complexes in the presence of acetylcholine.", "contents": "Uses of fluorescent cholinergic analogues to study binding sites for cholinergic ligands in Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor. A series of synthetic 1,n-bis(3-aminopyridinio)-alkane fluorescent probes have been used to determine the ligand binding properties of the acetylcholine receptor purified from Torpedo californica electroplax. At equilibrium, the probes bound to a single class of sites. The binding affinity of the fluorescent decamethonium analogues increased progressively as the number of methylene groups (n) increased from 4 to 12 and decreased in the range of 16--18 such groups. The receptor bound 1,12-bis(3-aminopyridinio)dodecane and 1,14-bis(3-aminopyridinio)tetradecane with the highest affinity while related monofunctional probes such as 1-(3-amino-pyridinio)propane were bound with a substantially lower affinity. The data indicate that the receptor interacts strongly with both ends of a bifunctional probe such as 1,14-bis(3-aminopyridinio)tetradecane. Also, competition between bifunctional fluorescent probe binding and the binding of conventional cholinergic ligands, was investigated and led to the conclusion that the probes, which are antagonists, form ternary complexes in the presence of acetylcholine.", "PMID": 435448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2747", "title": "Studies of reversible and irreversible interactions of an alkylating agonist with Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor in membrane-bound and purified states.", "content": "The interaction of a cholinergic depolarizing agent, bromoacetylcholine, with acetylcholine receptor (AcChR) enriched membrane fragments and Triton-solubilized, purified AcChR from Torpedo californica has been studied. The reagent bound to membrane-bound AcChR reversibly with an apparent dissociation constant of 16 +/- 1 nM at equilibrium. This 600-fold higher affinity for the receptor than found from physiological studies [Kact congruent to 10 micrometers; Karlin, A. (1973) Fed. Proc. Fed. Am. Soc. Exp. Biol. 32, 1847--1853] can be attributed to a ligand-induced affinity change of the membrane-bound receptor upon preincubation with bromoacetylcholine. At equilibrium [3H]bromoacetylcholine, like acetylcholine, bound to half the number of alpha-bungarotoxin sites present in the preparation without apparent positive cooperativity, and this binding was competitively inhibited by acetylcholine. In the presence of dithiothreitol, [3H]bromoacetylcholine irreversibly alkylated both membrane-bound and solubilized, purified acetylcholine receptor, with a stoichiometry identical with that for reversible binding. NaDodSO4-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the labeled acetylcholine receptor showed that only the 40 000-dalton subunit contained the label. From these results it is concluded that the 40 000-dalton subunit represents a major component of the agonist binding site of the receptor.", "contents": "Studies of reversible and irreversible interactions of an alkylating agonist with Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor in membrane-bound and purified states. The interaction of a cholinergic depolarizing agent, bromoacetylcholine, with acetylcholine receptor (AcChR) enriched membrane fragments and Triton-solubilized, purified AcChR from Torpedo californica has been studied. The reagent bound to membrane-bound AcChR reversibly with an apparent dissociation constant of 16 +/- 1 nM at equilibrium. This 600-fold higher affinity for the receptor than found from physiological studies [Kact congruent to 10 micrometers; Karlin, A. (1973) Fed. Proc. Fed. Am. Soc. Exp. Biol. 32, 1847--1853] can be attributed to a ligand-induced affinity change of the membrane-bound receptor upon preincubation with bromoacetylcholine. At equilibrium [3H]bromoacetylcholine, like acetylcholine, bound to half the number of alpha-bungarotoxin sites present in the preparation without apparent positive cooperativity, and this binding was competitively inhibited by acetylcholine. In the presence of dithiothreitol, [3H]bromoacetylcholine irreversibly alkylated both membrane-bound and solubilized, purified acetylcholine receptor, with a stoichiometry identical with that for reversible binding. NaDodSO4-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the labeled acetylcholine receptor showed that only the 40 000-dalton subunit contained the label. From these results it is concluded that the 40 000-dalton subunit represents a major component of the agonist binding site of the receptor.", "PMID": 435449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2748", "title": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 1. Equilibrium studies.", "content": "The interactions between the fluorescent probe ethidium and acetylcholine receptor enriched membranes from Torpedo californica are described. One class of saturable ethidium sites was blocked by alpha-bungarotoxin and therefore reflects direct binding to the receptor (Kd approximately 3 micrometers; stoichiometry--one ethidium site per two alpha-bungarotoxin sites). The second class of sites was nonsaturable and unaffected by alpha-toxin and was therefore considered nonspecific in nature. The increase in fluorescence intensity observed upon addition of cholinergic agonists and antagonists accurately reflects the dissociation constant and stoichiometry of the high-affinity receptor sites for these ligands. The effects of local anaesthetics are complex in nature and depend on the structure of the ligand. For carbamylcholine, the increase in flourescence intensity was due to an increase in the quantum yield of the dye bound to the membrane rather than a dye uptake. In general, ethidium appears not to strongly alter the properties of the membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor and can therefore be profitably used as a spectroscopic probe.", "contents": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 1. Equilibrium studies. The interactions between the fluorescent probe ethidium and acetylcholine receptor enriched membranes from Torpedo californica are described. One class of saturable ethidium sites was blocked by alpha-bungarotoxin and therefore reflects direct binding to the receptor (Kd approximately 3 micrometers; stoichiometry--one ethidium site per two alpha-bungarotoxin sites). The second class of sites was nonsaturable and unaffected by alpha-toxin and was therefore considered nonspecific in nature. The increase in fluorescence intensity observed upon addition of cholinergic agonists and antagonists accurately reflects the dissociation constant and stoichiometry of the high-affinity receptor sites for these ligands. The effects of local anaesthetics are complex in nature and depend on the structure of the ligand. For carbamylcholine, the increase in flourescence intensity was due to an increase in the quantum yield of the dye bound to the membrane rather than a dye uptake. In general, ethidium appears not to strongly alter the properties of the membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor and can therefore be profitably used as a spectroscopic probe.", "PMID": 435452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2749", "title": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 2. Stopped-flow studies with agonists and antagonists.", "content": "The kinetics of cholinergic ligand binding to membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica have been followed in a stopped-flow photometer, by using the fluorescent probe ethidium. The overall reaction amplitude, as a function of ligand concentration, can be fit to the law of mass action for both agonist and antagonists. All agonists show at least biphasic kinetics, and the concentration dependence of the kinetic parameters is fit by a common mechanism involving sequential binding of ligands with increasingly lower affinity. The receptor-ligand precomplexes isomerize to different noninterconvertible final complexes depending on the number of ligands bound. In contrast, the kinetics observed with antagonists cannot be fit to a common model. These kinetics are always much slower than those observed with agonists, and the relaxation rates depend only weakly on antagonist concentration.", "contents": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 2. Stopped-flow studies with agonists and antagonists. The kinetics of cholinergic ligand binding to membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica have been followed in a stopped-flow photometer, by using the fluorescent probe ethidium. The overall reaction amplitude, as a function of ligand concentration, can be fit to the law of mass action for both agonist and antagonists. All agonists show at least biphasic kinetics, and the concentration dependence of the kinetic parameters is fit by a common mechanism involving sequential binding of ligands with increasingly lower affinity. The receptor-ligand precomplexes isomerize to different noninterconvertible final complexes depending on the number of ligands bound. In contrast, the kinetics observed with antagonists cannot be fit to a common model. These kinetics are always much slower than those observed with agonists, and the relaxation rates depend only weakly on antagonist concentration.", "PMID": 435453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2750", "title": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 3. Stopped-flow studies with histrionicotoxin.", "content": "Rapid kinetic studies of histrionicotoxin interactions with membrane-bound acetylcholine-receptor showed a conformational change in the receptor-histironicotoxin complex as reflected by a decrease in fluorescence intensity of the extrinsic probe ethidium. The simplest kinetic mechanism consistent with the observed data is one in which a rapid preequiliibrium exists between receptor and toxin (K = 3.33 micrometers), followed by a slow conformational change (k1 congruent to 2 X 10(-2) s-1 and k-1 congruent to 1.5 X 10(-3) s-1). The overall equilibrium constant (Kov) determined from a fit of the amplitude dependence on toxin concentration had a value of 0.25 micrometer. The data preclude kinetic mechanisms where histrionicotoxin acts as an effector, shifting equilibria between preexisting, discrete, and slowly interconverting receptor forms.", "contents": "Ligand-induced changes in membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor observed by ethidium fluorescence. 3. Stopped-flow studies with histrionicotoxin. Rapid kinetic studies of histrionicotoxin interactions with membrane-bound acetylcholine-receptor showed a conformational change in the receptor-histironicotoxin complex as reflected by a decrease in fluorescence intensity of the extrinsic probe ethidium. The simplest kinetic mechanism consistent with the observed data is one in which a rapid preequiliibrium exists between receptor and toxin (K = 3.33 micrometers), followed by a slow conformational change (k1 congruent to 2 X 10(-2) s-1 and k-1 congruent to 1.5 X 10(-3) s-1). The overall equilibrium constant (Kov) determined from a fit of the amplitude dependence on toxin concentration had a value of 0.25 micrometer. The data preclude kinetic mechanisms where histrionicotoxin acts as an effector, shifting equilibria between preexisting, discrete, and slowly interconverting receptor forms.", "PMID": 435454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2751", "title": "Electrostatic effects in hemoglobin: hydrogen ion equilibria in human deoxy- and oxyhemoglobin A.", "content": "The modified Tanford-Kirkwood theory of Shire et al. [Shire, S. J., Hanania, G.I.H., & Gurd, F.R.N. (1974) Biochemistry 13, 2967] for electrostatic interactions was applied to the hydrogen ion equilibria of human deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin. Atomic coordinates for oxyhemoglobin were generated by the application of the appropriate rigid rotation function to alpha and beta chains of the deoxyhemoglobin structure [Fermi, G. (1975) J. Mol. Biol. 97, 237]. The model employs two sets of parameters derived from the crystalline protein structures, the atomic coordinates of charged amino acid residues and static solvent accessibility factors to reflect their individual degrees of exposure to solvent. Theoretical titration curves based on a consistent set of pKint values compared closely with experimental potentiometric curves. Theoretical pK values at half-titration for individual protein sites corresponded to available observed values for both quaternary states. The results bring out the cumulative effects of numerous electrostatic interactions in the tetrameric structures and the major effects of the quaternary transition that result from changes in static solvent accessibility of certain ionizable groups.", "contents": "Electrostatic effects in hemoglobin: hydrogen ion equilibria in human deoxy- and oxyhemoglobin A. The modified Tanford-Kirkwood theory of Shire et al. [Shire, S. J., Hanania, G.I.H., & Gurd, F.R.N. (1974) Biochemistry 13, 2967] for electrostatic interactions was applied to the hydrogen ion equilibria of human deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin. Atomic coordinates for oxyhemoglobin were generated by the application of the appropriate rigid rotation function to alpha and beta chains of the deoxyhemoglobin structure [Fermi, G. (1975) J. Mol. Biol. 97, 237]. The model employs two sets of parameters derived from the crystalline protein structures, the atomic coordinates of charged amino acid residues and static solvent accessibility factors to reflect their individual degrees of exposure to solvent. Theoretical titration curves based on a consistent set of pKint values compared closely with experimental potentiometric curves. Theoretical pK values at half-titration for individual protein sites corresponded to available observed values for both quaternary states. The results bring out the cumulative effects of numerous electrostatic interactions in the tetrameric structures and the major effects of the quaternary transition that result from changes in static solvent accessibility of certain ionizable groups.", "PMID": 435457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2752", "title": "Identification of interacting amino acids at the histone 2A--2B binding site.", "content": "Histones 2A and 2B of calf thymus were cross-linked within intact nuclei by UV irradiation. This procedure induces the formation of covalent cross-links between noncovalently interacting residues in the histones of native chromatin. Tryptic peptide and partial sequence analysis of the cross-linked product has shown that the covalent linkage is between tyrosine-37, -40, or -42 (we have not yet determined which) of H2B and proline-26 of H2A. We conclude that these residues constitute part of the hydrophobic H2A--H2B binding domain within the nucleosomes of native chromatin.", "contents": "Identification of interacting amino acids at the histone 2A--2B binding site. Histones 2A and 2B of calf thymus were cross-linked within intact nuclei by UV irradiation. This procedure induces the formation of covalent cross-links between noncovalently interacting residues in the histones of native chromatin. Tryptic peptide and partial sequence analysis of the cross-linked product has shown that the covalent linkage is between tyrosine-37, -40, or -42 (we have not yet determined which) of H2B and proline-26 of H2A. We conclude that these residues constitute part of the hydrophobic H2A--H2B binding domain within the nucleosomes of native chromatin.", "PMID": 435458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2753", "title": "Amino acid contacts between histones are the same for plants and mammals. Binding-site studies using ultraviolet light and tetranitromethane.", "content": "Leek chromatin has been cross-linked by UV light and tetranitromethane. The same major H2A--H2B and H2B--H4 cross-linked dimers are formed as in mammalian chromatin. CNBr peptide mapping shows that the cross-links occur in the same regions of the histone sequence for both plants and mammals. Interspecies complexes formed between leek and calf H2A and H2B can be cross-linked by UV light with the same specificity as intraspecies H2A--H2B complexes. We conclude that certain geometric features of histone-histone binding sites are conserved precisely during evolution despite large changes in the overall histone sequence. Moreover, our data show that identification of cross-linked amino acids using binding-site probes such as UV light and tetranitromethane can yield significant information about thermodynamically important contacts within histone-histone binding sites.", "contents": "Amino acid contacts between histones are the same for plants and mammals. Binding-site studies using ultraviolet light and tetranitromethane. Leek chromatin has been cross-linked by UV light and tetranitromethane. The same major H2A--H2B and H2B--H4 cross-linked dimers are formed as in mammalian chromatin. CNBr peptide mapping shows that the cross-links occur in the same regions of the histone sequence for both plants and mammals. Interspecies complexes formed between leek and calf H2A and H2B can be cross-linked by UV light with the same specificity as intraspecies H2A--H2B complexes. We conclude that certain geometric features of histone-histone binding sites are conserved precisely during evolution despite large changes in the overall histone sequence. Moreover, our data show that identification of cross-linked amino acids using binding-site probes such as UV light and tetranitromethane can yield significant information about thermodynamically important contacts within histone-histone binding sites.", "PMID": 435459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2754", "title": "Prothrombin domains: circular dichroic evidence for a lack of cooperativity.", "content": "The far-ultraviolet circular dichroism spectra of bovine and human prothrombin, prothrombin fragment 1, prethrombin 1, prothrombin fragment 2, and prethrombin 2 (prethrombin 2des(1--13)) were determined and the method of Chen et al. [Chen, Y. H., Yang, J. T., & Martinez, H. M. (1972) Biochemistry 11, 4120--4131; Chen, Y. H., Yang, J. T., & Chau, K. H. (1974) Biochemistry 13, 3350--3359] was used to calculate the apparent alpha-helix, beta-sheet, and random-coil contents of each protein. Prothrombin and its activation components were found to contain a large amount of aperiodic secondary structure and there was little species difference between the spectra and, thus, secondary structures. The hypothesis that the prothrombin activation components exist as relative ly noncooperative \"domains\" within the prothrombin molecule was tested by comparing the circular dichroism spectrum of prothrombin with the sum of the spectra of the components. It support of the hypothesis, no gross alterations in the spectra and, hence, secondary structures of the components were found to have occurred upon activation.", "contents": "Prothrombin domains: circular dichroic evidence for a lack of cooperativity. The far-ultraviolet circular dichroism spectra of bovine and human prothrombin, prothrombin fragment 1, prethrombin 1, prothrombin fragment 2, and prethrombin 2 (prethrombin 2des(1--13)) were determined and the method of Chen et al. [Chen, Y. H., Yang, J. T., & Martinez, H. M. (1972) Biochemistry 11, 4120--4131; Chen, Y. H., Yang, J. T., & Chau, K. H. (1974) Biochemistry 13, 3350--3359] was used to calculate the apparent alpha-helix, beta-sheet, and random-coil contents of each protein. Prothrombin and its activation components were found to contain a large amount of aperiodic secondary structure and there was little species difference between the spectra and, thus, secondary structures. The hypothesis that the prothrombin activation components exist as relative ly noncooperative \"domains\" within the prothrombin molecule was tested by comparing the circular dichroism spectrum of prothrombin with the sum of the spectra of the components. It support of the hypothesis, no gross alterations in the spectra and, hence, secondary structures of the components were found to have occurred upon activation.", "PMID": 435460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2755", "title": "Stereochemistry and kinetic isotope effects in the bovine plasma amine oxidase catalyzed oxidation of dopamine.", "content": "The stereochemistry of the bovine plasma amine oxidase catalyzed oxidation of 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethylamine (domapine) has been investigated by comparing 3H/14C ratios of 3,4-dibenzyloxyphenethyl alcohols, derived from 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehydes, to starting dopamines chirally labeled at C-1 and C-2. The oxidation of [2RS-3H]-, [2R-3H]-, and [2S-3H]dopamine leads to products which have retained 53, 59, and 47% of their tritium. Similarly, oxidation of [1RS-3H]-, [1R-3H]-, and [1S-3H]dopamine leads to an 80, 80, and 92% retention of tritium. The configurational purity of tritium at C-2 of dopamine and C-1 of the dopamine precursor 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenethylamine has been confirmed employing dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (specific for the pro-R hydrogen at C-2) and pea seedling amine oxidase (specific for the pro-S hydrogen at C-1). In addition, chromatographically resolved isozymes of bovine plasma amine oxidase have been demonstrated to lead to the same stereochemical result as pooled enzyme fractions. We have been able to rule out carbon interchange and tritium transfer in the ethylamine side chain of dopamine as the source of the apparent nonstereospecificity. Estimated primary tritium isotope effects are 1 for [2-3H]dopamines and 5--6 and 26--34 for [1R-3H]- and [1S-3H]dopamine, respectively. We propose the presence of alternate dopamine binding modes, characterized by absolute but opposing stereochemistries and differential primary tritium isotope effects at C-1.", "contents": "Stereochemistry and kinetic isotope effects in the bovine plasma amine oxidase catalyzed oxidation of dopamine. The stereochemistry of the bovine plasma amine oxidase catalyzed oxidation of 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethylamine (domapine) has been investigated by comparing 3H/14C ratios of 3,4-dibenzyloxyphenethyl alcohols, derived from 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehydes, to starting dopamines chirally labeled at C-1 and C-2. The oxidation of [2RS-3H]-, [2R-3H]-, and [2S-3H]dopamine leads to products which have retained 53, 59, and 47% of their tritium. Similarly, oxidation of [1RS-3H]-, [1R-3H]-, and [1S-3H]dopamine leads to an 80, 80, and 92% retention of tritium. The configurational purity of tritium at C-2 of dopamine and C-1 of the dopamine precursor 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenethylamine has been confirmed employing dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (specific for the pro-R hydrogen at C-2) and pea seedling amine oxidase (specific for the pro-S hydrogen at C-1). In addition, chromatographically resolved isozymes of bovine plasma amine oxidase have been demonstrated to lead to the same stereochemical result as pooled enzyme fractions. We have been able to rule out carbon interchange and tritium transfer in the ethylamine side chain of dopamine as the source of the apparent nonstereospecificity. Estimated primary tritium isotope effects are 1 for [2-3H]dopamines and 5--6 and 26--34 for [1R-3H]- and [1S-3H]dopamine, respectively. We propose the presence of alternate dopamine binding modes, characterized by absolute but opposing stereochemistries and differential primary tritium isotope effects at C-1.", "PMID": 435461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2756", "title": "Investigation of solvent accessibility of the fluorotyrosyl residues of M13 coat protein in deoxycholate micelles and phospholipid vesicles.", "content": "We have utilized a nonperturbing nuclear magnetic resonance technique, specifically measuring sensitivity of the chemical shift of fluorotyrosyl residues to change in solvent from H2O to D2O, to demonstrate that the tyrosyl residues of fluorotyrosyl M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles are not accessible to solvent i.e., are buried in the hydrophobic portion of the bilayer. The two fluorotyrosyl residues of the protein did show partial exposure to solvent (42% and 65% with respect to aqueous m-fluorotyrosine) when the protein was incorporated into deoxycholate micelles, pointing to differences in conformation of micellar protein with respect to vesicle-associated protein. M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles was not sensitive to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination, supporting the NMR results. Coat protein in deoxycholate micelles showed release of fluorotyrosyl residues upon Pronase digestion, but only after an observed change in environment. The observed changes suggest that proteolytic digestion studies of membrane proteins should be interpreted with the possibility of artifacts related to conformational changes in mind. M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles did not demonstrate release of fluorotyrosine by Pronase, again pointing to differences between protein in micelles and in vesicles and corroborating the NMR result.", "contents": "Investigation of solvent accessibility of the fluorotyrosyl residues of M13 coat protein in deoxycholate micelles and phospholipid vesicles. We have utilized a nonperturbing nuclear magnetic resonance technique, specifically measuring sensitivity of the chemical shift of fluorotyrosyl residues to change in solvent from H2O to D2O, to demonstrate that the tyrosyl residues of fluorotyrosyl M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles are not accessible to solvent i.e., are buried in the hydrophobic portion of the bilayer. The two fluorotyrosyl residues of the protein did show partial exposure to solvent (42% and 65% with respect to aqueous m-fluorotyrosine) when the protein was incorporated into deoxycholate micelles, pointing to differences in conformation of micellar protein with respect to vesicle-associated protein. M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles was not sensitive to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination, supporting the NMR results. Coat protein in deoxycholate micelles showed release of fluorotyrosyl residues upon Pronase digestion, but only after an observed change in environment. The observed changes suggest that proteolytic digestion studies of membrane proteins should be interpreted with the possibility of artifacts related to conformational changes in mind. M13 coat protein in phospholipid vesicles did not demonstrate release of fluorotyrosine by Pronase, again pointing to differences between protein in micelles and in vesicles and corroborating the NMR result.", "PMID": 435462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2757", "title": "Effect of estrogen on preprolactin messenger ribonucleic acid sequences.", "content": "A complementary DNA (cDNA) probe has been synthesized for rat preprolactin messenger RNA (mRNA). Following preparative gel electrophoresis, the cDNA was characterized and estimated to be approximately 75% pure. The reverse transcript is estimated to be greater than 1000 nucleotides long and, therefore, is a full-length copy of the preprolactin mRNA. It is a faithful transcript, as evidenced by back-hybridization with the mRNA. By use of the cDNA as a hybridization probe, the levels of preprolactin mRNA in the pituitary of male and female rats were monitored and found to increase following estrogen treatment. Increases in preprolactin mRNA activity, assayed by in vitro translation in the wheat germ system, were paralleled by increases in hybridization to the cDNA probe after estrogen treatment.", "contents": "Effect of estrogen on preprolactin messenger ribonucleic acid sequences. A complementary DNA (cDNA) probe has been synthesized for rat preprolactin messenger RNA (mRNA). Following preparative gel electrophoresis, the cDNA was characterized and estimated to be approximately 75% pure. The reverse transcript is estimated to be greater than 1000 nucleotides long and, therefore, is a full-length copy of the preprolactin mRNA. It is a faithful transcript, as evidenced by back-hybridization with the mRNA. By use of the cDNA as a hybridization probe, the levels of preprolactin mRNA in the pituitary of male and female rats were monitored and found to increase following estrogen treatment. Increases in preprolactin mRNA activity, assayed by in vitro translation in the wheat germ system, were paralleled by increases in hybridization to the cDNA probe after estrogen treatment.", "PMID": 435463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2758", "title": "Inhibition of chicken myeloblastosis RNA polymerase II activity by adriamycin.", "content": "In vitro RNA synthesis by isolated RNA polymerase II of chicken myeloblastosis cells was shown to be highly sensitive to adriamycin inhibition. The template activity of the single-stranded DNA, purified by chromatography of denatured calf thymus DNA through hydroxylapatite columns, was found to be equally as sensitive to the inhibition as denatured calf thymus DNA. However, contrary to denatured DNA, the single-stranded DNA thus purified showed no significant binding to adriamycin as analyzed by cosedimentation of the drug and DNA through a sucrose gradient. This indicated that inhibition of RNA synthesis on a single-stranded DNA template might involve a mechanism other than DNA intercalation. Kinetic studies of the inhibition showed that the inhibition of RNA synthesis by adriamycin could not be reversed by increasing the concentrations of RNA polymerase and four nucleoside triphosphates, but it could be reversed by increasing DNA concentrations. Analysis of the size of RNA synthesized indicated that the ultimate size of the product RNA was not altered by adriamycin, suggesting that the drug may inhibit RNA synthesis by reducing RNA chain initiation.", "contents": "Inhibition of chicken myeloblastosis RNA polymerase II activity by adriamycin. In vitro RNA synthesis by isolated RNA polymerase II of chicken myeloblastosis cells was shown to be highly sensitive to adriamycin inhibition. The template activity of the single-stranded DNA, purified by chromatography of denatured calf thymus DNA through hydroxylapatite columns, was found to be equally as sensitive to the inhibition as denatured calf thymus DNA. However, contrary to denatured DNA, the single-stranded DNA thus purified showed no significant binding to adriamycin as analyzed by cosedimentation of the drug and DNA through a sucrose gradient. This indicated that inhibition of RNA synthesis on a single-stranded DNA template might involve a mechanism other than DNA intercalation. Kinetic studies of the inhibition showed that the inhibition of RNA synthesis by adriamycin could not be reversed by increasing the concentrations of RNA polymerase and four nucleoside triphosphates, but it could be reversed by increasing DNA concentrations. Analysis of the size of RNA synthesized indicated that the ultimate size of the product RNA was not altered by adriamycin, suggesting that the drug may inhibit RNA synthesis by reducing RNA chain initiation.", "PMID": 435465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2759", "title": "Isolation and identification of 4-hydroxy- and 4-oxoretinoic acid. In vitro metabolites of all-trans-retinoic acid in hamster trachea and liver.", "content": "Incubation of [3H]retinoic acid in the presence of hamster liver 10000g supernatant produces several metabolites that are more polar than the parent compound. Two of these metabolites are identical with synthetic all-trans-4-hydroxyretinoic acid and all-trans-4-oxoretinoic acid both in ultraviolet absorption and mass spectral characteristics and in migration rates on two different reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatographic systems. The metabolites produced in a cell-free liver incubation reaction also migrate on a high-pressure liquid chromatography column together with metabolites isolated from a tracheal organ culture system. Both the metabolites and the synthetic standards show less biological activity than the parent all-trans-retinoic acid in a tracheal organ culture assay.", "contents": "Isolation and identification of 4-hydroxy- and 4-oxoretinoic acid. In vitro metabolites of all-trans-retinoic acid in hamster trachea and liver. Incubation of [3H]retinoic acid in the presence of hamster liver 10000g supernatant produces several metabolites that are more polar than the parent compound. Two of these metabolites are identical with synthetic all-trans-4-hydroxyretinoic acid and all-trans-4-oxoretinoic acid both in ultraviolet absorption and mass spectral characteristics and in migration rates on two different reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatographic systems. The metabolites produced in a cell-free liver incubation reaction also migrate on a high-pressure liquid chromatography column together with metabolites isolated from a tracheal organ culture system. Both the metabolites and the synthetic standards show less biological activity than the parent all-trans-retinoic acid in a tracheal organ culture assay.", "PMID": 435468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2760", "title": "Identification of the N-ethylmaleimide reactive protein of the mitochondrial phosphate transporter.", "content": "The mitochondrial phosphate carrier is inhibited by the SH reagents p-(hydroxymercuri)benzoate and N-ethylmaleimide. Based on an analysis utilizing dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, an SH-containing 32 000-dalton protein has been identified as a component of the phosphate carrier system. Two other N-[3H]ethylmaleimide-labeled proteins of the inner mitochondrial membrane have been eliminated from this role [Wholrab, H., & Greaney, J., Jr. (1978) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 503, 425] on the basis that band IV (45,000 daltons) is absent from heart sonic submitochondrial particles and band VII (6 500 daltons) does not react with p-(hydroxymercuri)benzoate. The mobility of the 32 000-dalton protein (0.43) is lower than that of the gamma subunit of the mitochondrial ATPase (0.46) and the carboxyatractyloside binding protein (0.48) on 12.5% dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels. In these flight muscle mitochondria, 0.87 nmol of N-[3H]ethylmaleimide per nmol of cytochrome a is bound to the 32,000-dalton protein.", "contents": "Identification of the N-ethylmaleimide reactive protein of the mitochondrial phosphate transporter. The mitochondrial phosphate carrier is inhibited by the SH reagents p-(hydroxymercuri)benzoate and N-ethylmaleimide. Based on an analysis utilizing dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, an SH-containing 32 000-dalton protein has been identified as a component of the phosphate carrier system. Two other N-[3H]ethylmaleimide-labeled proteins of the inner mitochondrial membrane have been eliminated from this role [Wholrab, H., & Greaney, J., Jr. (1978) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 503, 425] on the basis that band IV (45,000 daltons) is absent from heart sonic submitochondrial particles and band VII (6 500 daltons) does not react with p-(hydroxymercuri)benzoate. The mobility of the 32 000-dalton protein (0.43) is lower than that of the gamma subunit of the mitochondrial ATPase (0.46) and the carboxyatractyloside binding protein (0.48) on 12.5% dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels. In these flight muscle mitochondria, 0.87 nmol of N-[3H]ethylmaleimide per nmol of cytochrome a is bound to the 32,000-dalton protein.", "PMID": 435469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2761", "title": "Thermal behavior of synthetic sphingomyelin-cholesterol dispersions.", "content": "The thermotropic behavior of aqueous dispersions of palmitoylsphingomyelin-cholesterol and lignoceryl-sphingomyelin-cholesterol mixtures has been examined by high-sensitivity differential scanning calorimetry. When less than 25 mol % cholesterol is mixed with either sphingomyelin, the calorimetric endotherm is composed of a sharp and a broad component. The sharp-component enthalpy change decreases as the mole percent cholesterol increases with the extrapolated zero enthalpy point being 25 to 30 mol %. With palmitoylsphingomyelin, the temperature of maximum heat capacity of the sharp component decreases monotonically with increasing cholesterol content, while the lignocerylsphingomyelin sharp-component maximum remains constant until more than 20 mol % sterol is present. The broad-component enthalpy change maximizes at 3--4 kcal/mol between 10 and 20 mol % cholesterol and decreases as the ratio of cholesterol is increased or decreased from this range for both sphingomyelins. The results are compared with those from a previous study on dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine-cholesterol mixtures and are interpreted as evidence for the coexistence of cholesterol-rich and cholesterol-poor phases.", "contents": "Thermal behavior of synthetic sphingomyelin-cholesterol dispersions. The thermotropic behavior of aqueous dispersions of palmitoylsphingomyelin-cholesterol and lignoceryl-sphingomyelin-cholesterol mixtures has been examined by high-sensitivity differential scanning calorimetry. When less than 25 mol % cholesterol is mixed with either sphingomyelin, the calorimetric endotherm is composed of a sharp and a broad component. The sharp-component enthalpy change decreases as the mole percent cholesterol increases with the extrapolated zero enthalpy point being 25 to 30 mol %. With palmitoylsphingomyelin, the temperature of maximum heat capacity of the sharp component decreases monotonically with increasing cholesterol content, while the lignocerylsphingomyelin sharp-component maximum remains constant until more than 20 mol % sterol is present. The broad-component enthalpy change maximizes at 3--4 kcal/mol between 10 and 20 mol % cholesterol and decreases as the ratio of cholesterol is increased or decreased from this range for both sphingomyelins. The results are compared with those from a previous study on dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine-cholesterol mixtures and are interpreted as evidence for the coexistence of cholesterol-rich and cholesterol-poor phases.", "PMID": 435470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2762", "title": "Adenosine receptor permanently coupled to turkey erythrocyte adenylate cyclase.", "content": "The mode of coupling of the adenosine receptor to adenylate cyclase in turkey erythrocyte membranes was probed by two independent approaches. The progressive inactivation of the adenosine receptor by an adenosine receptor affinity label resulted in the proportional reduction in the adenosine plus GppNHp dependent specific activity. In contrast, the intrinsic rate constant (k3), characterizing the process of adenylate cyclase activation by the adenosine-adenosine receptor complex, is independent of the extent of receptor inactivation. This behavior favors the precoupled mechanism, A + R.E: formula: (see text), where the receptor R and the enzyme E are permanently coupled to each other and the adenosine A binds to the receptor and induces the first-order process of cyclase activation to its active form ARE'. The finding that adenosine receptor is permanently coupled to the cyclase catalytic unit is corroborated by the observation that the progressive increase in membrane fluidity has no effect on the rate constant (k3) of adenylate cyclase activation by the adenosine-adenosine receptor complex and that the dose-response curve for adenosine is noncooperative.", "contents": "Adenosine receptor permanently coupled to turkey erythrocyte adenylate cyclase. The mode of coupling of the adenosine receptor to adenylate cyclase in turkey erythrocyte membranes was probed by two independent approaches. The progressive inactivation of the adenosine receptor by an adenosine receptor affinity label resulted in the proportional reduction in the adenosine plus GppNHp dependent specific activity. In contrast, the intrinsic rate constant (k3), characterizing the process of adenylate cyclase activation by the adenosine-adenosine receptor complex, is independent of the extent of receptor inactivation. This behavior favors the precoupled mechanism, A + R.E: formula: (see text), where the receptor R and the enzyme E are permanently coupled to each other and the adenosine A binds to the receptor and induces the first-order process of cyclase activation to its active form ARE'. The finding that adenosine receptor is permanently coupled to the cyclase catalytic unit is corroborated by the observation that the progressive increase in membrane fluidity has no effect on the rate constant (k3) of adenylate cyclase activation by the adenosine-adenosine receptor complex and that the dose-response curve for adenosine is noncooperative.", "PMID": 435473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2763", "title": "Purification and properties of the hemagglutinin from Wistaria floribunda seeds.", "content": "Extracts of Wistaria floribunda seeds contain separable erythroagglutinating and lymphocyte mitogenic activities. We wish to report the purification and characterization of the erythroagglutinating lectin of these seeds. A phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) extract of the ground seeds was made to 50% ethanol and the precipitate, which contained both the agglutinin and mitogen, was dissolved in PBS. The erythroagglutinating activity was adsorbed onto insoluble polyleycyl derivatized A + H active hog gastric mucin. After desorption with 0.2 M D-galactose and removal of the sugar by dialysis, the eluate displayed three protein bands on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The major component represented 85% of the mixture. Immunoelectrophoresis of the mixture demonstrated immunochemical identity among the proteins. Gel filtration through Sephadex G-200 resulted in purification of the major component. Based upon the composition and subunit molecular weight, it was concluded that the three components represent a dimer, tetramer, and octamer of a single glycopolypeptide chain of 28 000. The erythroagglutinin has a pI at pH 5.4 and one cystine per dimeric unit.", "contents": "Purification and properties of the hemagglutinin from Wistaria floribunda seeds. Extracts of Wistaria floribunda seeds contain separable erythroagglutinating and lymphocyte mitogenic activities. We wish to report the purification and characterization of the erythroagglutinating lectin of these seeds. A phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) extract of the ground seeds was made to 50% ethanol and the precipitate, which contained both the agglutinin and mitogen, was dissolved in PBS. The erythroagglutinating activity was adsorbed onto insoluble polyleycyl derivatized A + H active hog gastric mucin. After desorption with 0.2 M D-galactose and removal of the sugar by dialysis, the eluate displayed three protein bands on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The major component represented 85% of the mixture. Immunoelectrophoresis of the mixture demonstrated immunochemical identity among the proteins. Gel filtration through Sephadex G-200 resulted in purification of the major component. Based upon the composition and subunit molecular weight, it was concluded that the three components represent a dimer, tetramer, and octamer of a single glycopolypeptide chain of 28 000. The erythroagglutinin has a pI at pH 5.4 and one cystine per dimeric unit.", "PMID": 435474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2764", "title": "Solution conformation of enkephalin. A nuclear magnetic resonance study of 13C-enriched carbonyl carbons in [Leu5]-enkephalin.", "content": "By using 13C enrichment in [Leu5]-enkephalin, it has been possible to improve the assignment of carbonyl resonances in the nuclear resonance spectrum and to remove some of the ambiguities in the derived phi and chi dihedral angles, thereby providing information about the conformation of this molecule in solution. The combined use of 13C and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance experiments leads to the conclusion that [Leu5]0enkephalin contains a type I beta bend at residues Gly3-Phe4 in dimethyl-d6 sulfoxide (Me2SO0d6) solution. Furthermore, the side chains of Tyr1, Phe4, and Leu5 exist predominantly in one conformation (tg-) in this solvent. A comparison is made between the conformation found in Me2SO-d6 and those determined by X-ray diffraction and conformational energy calculations.", "contents": "Solution conformation of enkephalin. A nuclear magnetic resonance study of 13C-enriched carbonyl carbons in [Leu5]-enkephalin. By using 13C enrichment in [Leu5]-enkephalin, it has been possible to improve the assignment of carbonyl resonances in the nuclear resonance spectrum and to remove some of the ambiguities in the derived phi and chi dihedral angles, thereby providing information about the conformation of this molecule in solution. The combined use of 13C and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance experiments leads to the conclusion that [Leu5]0enkephalin contains a type I beta bend at residues Gly3-Phe4 in dimethyl-d6 sulfoxide (Me2SO0d6) solution. Furthermore, the side chains of Tyr1, Phe4, and Leu5 exist predominantly in one conformation (tg-) in this solvent. A comparison is made between the conformation found in Me2SO-d6 and those determined by X-ray diffraction and conformational energy calculations.", "PMID": 435475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2765", "title": "Synthesis of poly(A)-containing RNA by isolated spinach chloroplasts.", "content": "Chloroplasts were isolated from spinach leaves and the intact chloroplasts separated by centrifugation on gradients of silica sol. Chloroplasts prepared in this way were almost completely free of cytoplasmic rRNA. The purified chloroplasts were incubated with 32PO4 in the light. The nucleic acids were then extracted and the RNA was fractionated into poly(A)-lacking RNA and poly(A)-containing RNA (poly(A)-RNA) via oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography. The poly(A)-RNA had a mean size of approximately 18--20 S as determined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The poly(A)-RNA was digested with RNase A and RNase T1, and the resulting poly(A) segments were subjected to electrophoresis on a 10% w/v polyacrylamide gel 98% v/v formamide). Radioactivity was incorporated into both poly(A)-RNA and poly(A)-lacking RNA and into the poly(A) segments themselves. The poly(A) segments were between 10 and 45 residues long and alkaline hydrolysis of poly(A) segments followed by descending paper chromatography showed that they were composed primarily of adenine residues. There was no 32PO4 incorporation into acid-insoluble material in the dark. We conclude that isolated chloroplasts are capable of synthesizing poly(A)-RNA.", "contents": "Synthesis of poly(A)-containing RNA by isolated spinach chloroplasts. Chloroplasts were isolated from spinach leaves and the intact chloroplasts separated by centrifugation on gradients of silica sol. Chloroplasts prepared in this way were almost completely free of cytoplasmic rRNA. The purified chloroplasts were incubated with 32PO4 in the light. The nucleic acids were then extracted and the RNA was fractionated into poly(A)-lacking RNA and poly(A)-containing RNA (poly(A)-RNA) via oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography. The poly(A)-RNA had a mean size of approximately 18--20 S as determined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The poly(A)-RNA was digested with RNase A and RNase T1, and the resulting poly(A) segments were subjected to electrophoresis on a 10% w/v polyacrylamide gel 98% v/v formamide). Radioactivity was incorporated into both poly(A)-RNA and poly(A)-lacking RNA and into the poly(A) segments themselves. The poly(A) segments were between 10 and 45 residues long and alkaline hydrolysis of poly(A) segments followed by descending paper chromatography showed that they were composed primarily of adenine residues. There was no 32PO4 incorporation into acid-insoluble material in the dark. We conclude that isolated chloroplasts are capable of synthesizing poly(A)-RNA.", "PMID": 435477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2766", "title": "Identification of the major 68,000-dalton protein of microtubule preparations as a 10-nm filament protein and its effects on microtubule assembly in vitro.", "content": "The major 68,000-dalton protein present in cycled microtubule preparations from bovine brain can be isolated in a rapidly sedimenting fraction consisting of filaments 10 nm in diameter. This 68,000-dalton protein remains in the filament fraction after gel filtration, phosphocellulose chromatography, or salt extraction of microtubule protein. Microtubule protein devoid of 10-nm filaments contains ring structures under depolymerizing conditions, and it polymerizes into microtubules with a characteristically low critical concentration, although all of the 68,000-dalton protein has been removed from it. When cycled microtubule protein is subjected to chromatography on phosphocellulose, the tubulin fraction (PC-tubulin) assembles into microtubules only at concentrations greater than 2 mg/mL. The other fraction, eluted from phosphocellulose at high ionic strength, contains the major 68,000-dalton protein and can be further resolved into two components by centrifugation. The supernatant, which consists mainly of high molecular weight microtubule-associated proteins, stimulates low concentrations of PC-tubulin to assemble. The pellet contains all of the 68,000-dalton protein, consists of 10-nm filaments, and does not stimulate assembly of PC-tublin. Boiling of purified filaments, however, releases several proteins, including the 68,000-dalton protein, and these released proteins stimulate the assembly of PC-tubulin. The morphology and protein composition of the filaments isolated from microtubule preparations by these techniques are very similar to those of mammalian neurofilaments. These results suggest that the major 68,000-dalton protein in cycled microtubule preparations, which may correspond to tubulin assembly protein [Lockwood, A.H. (1978) Cell 13, 613--627], is a constituent of neurofilaments.", "contents": "Identification of the major 68,000-dalton protein of microtubule preparations as a 10-nm filament protein and its effects on microtubule assembly in vitro. The major 68,000-dalton protein present in cycled microtubule preparations from bovine brain can be isolated in a rapidly sedimenting fraction consisting of filaments 10 nm in diameter. This 68,000-dalton protein remains in the filament fraction after gel filtration, phosphocellulose chromatography, or salt extraction of microtubule protein. Microtubule protein devoid of 10-nm filaments contains ring structures under depolymerizing conditions, and it polymerizes into microtubules with a characteristically low critical concentration, although all of the 68,000-dalton protein has been removed from it. When cycled microtubule protein is subjected to chromatography on phosphocellulose, the tubulin fraction (PC-tubulin) assembles into microtubules only at concentrations greater than 2 mg/mL. The other fraction, eluted from phosphocellulose at high ionic strength, contains the major 68,000-dalton protein and can be further resolved into two components by centrifugation. The supernatant, which consists mainly of high molecular weight microtubule-associated proteins, stimulates low concentrations of PC-tubulin to assemble. The pellet contains all of the 68,000-dalton protein, consists of 10-nm filaments, and does not stimulate assembly of PC-tublin. Boiling of purified filaments, however, releases several proteins, including the 68,000-dalton protein, and these released proteins stimulate the assembly of PC-tubulin. The morphology and protein composition of the filaments isolated from microtubule preparations by these techniques are very similar to those of mammalian neurofilaments. These results suggest that the major 68,000-dalton protein in cycled microtubule preparations, which may correspond to tubulin assembly protein [Lockwood, A.H. (1978) Cell 13, 613--627], is a constituent of neurofilaments.", "PMID": 435478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2767", "title": "Assembly of nonneural microtubules in the absence of glycerol and microtubule-associated proteins.", "content": "Microtubule protein from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells purified by an in vitro polymerization process in the absence of glycerol and calcium chelators contains several accessory proteins but lacks the high molecular weight proteins which are present in neurotubulin. DEAE-Sephadex chromatography of two-times cycled tubulin removes these nontubulin proteins, resulting in pure tubulin, as critically examined by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis. This tubulin can readily assemble into microtubules in assembly buffer, at low magnesium concentrations, without glycerol and at tubulin concentrations above 0.8 mg/mL. Electron microscopy shows that the tubules are identical with normal microtubules. When the purified tubulin fraction was reduced and carboxymethylated, a significant minor protein component could be observed electrophoretically, migrating between alpha- and beta-tubulin. At present, the identity and function of this protein are not known. The results demonstrate that the in vitro assembly of tubulin from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells does not require high molecular weight proteins or gamma-like factor(s) as has been proposed for the neurotubulin system.", "contents": "Assembly of nonneural microtubules in the absence of glycerol and microtubule-associated proteins. Microtubule protein from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells purified by an in vitro polymerization process in the absence of glycerol and calcium chelators contains several accessory proteins but lacks the high molecular weight proteins which are present in neurotubulin. DEAE-Sephadex chromatography of two-times cycled tubulin removes these nontubulin proteins, resulting in pure tubulin, as critically examined by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis. This tubulin can readily assemble into microtubules in assembly buffer, at low magnesium concentrations, without glycerol and at tubulin concentrations above 0.8 mg/mL. Electron microscopy shows that the tubules are identical with normal microtubules. When the purified tubulin fraction was reduced and carboxymethylated, a significant minor protein component could be observed electrophoretically, migrating between alpha- and beta-tubulin. At present, the identity and function of this protein are not known. The results demonstrate that the in vitro assembly of tubulin from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells does not require high molecular weight proteins or gamma-like factor(s) as has been proposed for the neurotubulin system.", "PMID": 435479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2768", "title": "Phospholipid lateral phase separation and the partition of cis-parinaric acid and trans-parinaric acid among aqueous, solid lipid, and fluid lipid phases.", "content": "The partition of cis-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-cis, trans, trans,cis-octadecatetraenoic acid, cis-PnA) and trans-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-all-trans-octadecatetraenoic acid, trans-PnA) among aqueous, solid lipid, and fluid lipid phases has been measured by three spectroscopic parameters: absorption spectral shifts, fluorescence quantum yield, and fluorescence polarization. The solid lipid was dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC); the fluid lipid was palmitoyldocosahexaenoylphosphatidylcholine (PDPC). Mole fraction partition coefficients between lipid and water were determined by absorption spectroscopy to be for ci--PnA, 5.3 X 10(5) with a solid lipid and 9 X 10(5) with fluid lipid and, for trans-PnA, 5 X 10(6) with solid lipid and 1.7 X 10(6) with fluid lipid. Ratios of the solid to the fluid partition coefficients (Kps/f) are 0.6 +/- 0.2 for cis-PnA and 3 +/- 1 for trans-PnA. A phase diagram for codispersions of DPPC and PDPC has been constructed from the measurements of the temperature dependence of the fluorescence quantum yield and polarization of cis-PnA and trans-PnA and their methyl ester derivatives. A simple analysis based on the phase diagram and fluorescence data allows additional calculations of Kps/f's which are determined to be 0.7 +/- 0.2 for the cis probes and 4 +/- 1 for the trans probes. The relative preference of trans-PnA for solid phase lipids and its enhanced quantum yield in solid phase lipids make it sensitive to a few percent solid. The trans probes provide evidence that structural order may persist in dispersions of these phospholipids 10 degrees C or more above their transition temperature. It is concluded that measurements of PnA fluorescence polarization vs. temperature are better suited than measurements of quantum yield vs. temperature for determining phospholipid phase separation.", "contents": "Phospholipid lateral phase separation and the partition of cis-parinaric acid and trans-parinaric acid among aqueous, solid lipid, and fluid lipid phases. The partition of cis-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-cis, trans, trans,cis-octadecatetraenoic acid, cis-PnA) and trans-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-all-trans-octadecatetraenoic acid, trans-PnA) among aqueous, solid lipid, and fluid lipid phases has been measured by three spectroscopic parameters: absorption spectral shifts, fluorescence quantum yield, and fluorescence polarization. The solid lipid was dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC); the fluid lipid was palmitoyldocosahexaenoylphosphatidylcholine (PDPC). Mole fraction partition coefficients between lipid and water were determined by absorption spectroscopy to be for ci--PnA, 5.3 X 10(5) with a solid lipid and 9 X 10(5) with fluid lipid and, for trans-PnA, 5 X 10(6) with solid lipid and 1.7 X 10(6) with fluid lipid. Ratios of the solid to the fluid partition coefficients (Kps/f) are 0.6 +/- 0.2 for cis-PnA and 3 +/- 1 for trans-PnA. A phase diagram for codispersions of DPPC and PDPC has been constructed from the measurements of the temperature dependence of the fluorescence quantum yield and polarization of cis-PnA and trans-PnA and their methyl ester derivatives. A simple analysis based on the phase diagram and fluorescence data allows additional calculations of Kps/f's which are determined to be 0.7 +/- 0.2 for the cis probes and 4 +/- 1 for the trans probes. The relative preference of trans-PnA for solid phase lipids and its enhanced quantum yield in solid phase lipids make it sensitive to a few percent solid. The trans probes provide evidence that structural order may persist in dispersions of these phospholipids 10 degrees C or more above their transition temperature. It is concluded that measurements of PnA fluorescence polarization vs. temperature are better suited than measurements of quantum yield vs. temperature for determining phospholipid phase separation.", "PMID": 435480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2769", "title": "Sphingomyelin--lecithin bilayers and their interaction with cholesterol.", "content": "Utilizing X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), we have studied (1) the structure and thermotropic properties of hydrated N-palmitoylsphingomyelin, (2) the interaction of N-palmitoylsphingomyelin with dimyristoyllecithin, and (3) the interaction of cholesterol with N-palmitoylsphingomyelin and dimyristoyllecithin, both individually and in a 50:50 (mol/mol) mixture. N-Palmitoylsphingomyelin forms bilayers which undergo a thermotropic order--disorder (gel--liquid crystalline) transition at 40.5 degrees C (delta H = 5.8 kcal/mol). The bilayer repeat distance is 66.8 A at 10 degrees C and 61.6 A at 50 degrees C. N-Palmitoylsphingomyelin exhibits miscibility with dimyristoylecithin in both the gel and liquid-crystalline phases, and no lateral phase separation occurs. Scanning calorimetry indicates that interaction with cholesterol is similar for both N-palmitoylsphingomyelin and dimyristoyllecithin and that in a 50:50 (mol/mol) mixture cholesterol shows no preferential affinity for either phospholipid.", "contents": "Sphingomyelin--lecithin bilayers and their interaction with cholesterol. Utilizing X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), we have studied (1) the structure and thermotropic properties of hydrated N-palmitoylsphingomyelin, (2) the interaction of N-palmitoylsphingomyelin with dimyristoyllecithin, and (3) the interaction of cholesterol with N-palmitoylsphingomyelin and dimyristoyllecithin, both individually and in a 50:50 (mol/mol) mixture. N-Palmitoylsphingomyelin forms bilayers which undergo a thermotropic order--disorder (gel--liquid crystalline) transition at 40.5 degrees C (delta H = 5.8 kcal/mol). The bilayer repeat distance is 66.8 A at 10 degrees C and 61.6 A at 50 degrees C. N-Palmitoylsphingomyelin exhibits miscibility with dimyristoylecithin in both the gel and liquid-crystalline phases, and no lateral phase separation occurs. Scanning calorimetry indicates that interaction with cholesterol is similar for both N-palmitoylsphingomyelin and dimyristoyllecithin and that in a 50:50 (mol/mol) mixture cholesterol shows no preferential affinity for either phospholipid.", "PMID": 435481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2770", "title": "Resonance Raman spectra of carbon-13- and nitrogen-15-labeled riboflavin bound to egg-white flavoprotein.", "content": "The resonance Raman spectra of [2-13C]-, [4a-13C]-, [4-13C]-8 [10a-13C]-, [2,4,4a, 10a-13C]-, [5-15N]-, [1,3-15N]-, and [1,3,5-15N]riboflavin bound to egg-white proteins were observed for N(3)-H and N(3)-D forms with spontaneous Raman technique by using the 488.0-nm excitation line of an argon ion laser. The fluorescence of riboflavin was quenched by forming a complex with egg-white riboflavin binding protein. The in-plane displacements of the C(2), C(4a), N(1), N(3), and N(5) atoms during each Raman active vibration were calculated from the observed isotopic frequency shifts. The 1252-cm-1 mode of the N(3)-H form was found to involve large vibrational displacements of the C(2) and N(3) atoms and to be strongly coupled with the N(3)-H bending mode. This line can be used as an indicator for state of N(3)-H...protein interaction. The 1584-cm-1 mode, which is known to be resonance-enhanced upon excitation near the 370-nm absorption band, was accompanied by the displacement of the N(5) atom in particular. The 1355-cm-1 mode was most strongly resonance-enhanced by the 450-nm absorption band and involved the displacements of all carbon atoms of ring III. Both lines can be used as structure probes for elucidating the structure of electronically excited states of isoalloxazine.", "contents": "Resonance Raman spectra of carbon-13- and nitrogen-15-labeled riboflavin bound to egg-white flavoprotein. The resonance Raman spectra of [2-13C]-, [4a-13C]-, [4-13C]-8 [10a-13C]-, [2,4,4a, 10a-13C]-, [5-15N]-, [1,3-15N]-, and [1,3,5-15N]riboflavin bound to egg-white proteins were observed for N(3)-H and N(3)-D forms with spontaneous Raman technique by using the 488.0-nm excitation line of an argon ion laser. The fluorescence of riboflavin was quenched by forming a complex with egg-white riboflavin binding protein. The in-plane displacements of the C(2), C(4a), N(1), N(3), and N(5) atoms during each Raman active vibration were calculated from the observed isotopic frequency shifts. The 1252-cm-1 mode of the N(3)-H form was found to involve large vibrational displacements of the C(2) and N(3) atoms and to be strongly coupled with the N(3)-H bending mode. This line can be used as an indicator for state of N(3)-H...protein interaction. The 1584-cm-1 mode, which is known to be resonance-enhanced upon excitation near the 370-nm absorption band, was accompanied by the displacement of the N(5) atom in particular. The 1355-cm-1 mode was most strongly resonance-enhanced by the 450-nm absorption band and involved the displacements of all carbon atoms of ring III. Both lines can be used as structure probes for elucidating the structure of electronically excited states of isoalloxazine.", "PMID": 435486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2771", "title": "Purification and partial characterization of a stimulatory factor for lamb thymus RNA polymerase II.", "content": "A heat-stable protein (HSF) that stimulates the activity of lamb thymus RNA polymerase II has been purified 2500-fold and partially characterized. This factor stimulates the activity of RNA polymerase II up to 13 times and retains complete activity when heated at 90 degrees C for 5 min. Stimulation is observed only in the presence of RNA polymerase II and requires native DNA as template. The stimulatory factor has a sedimentation coefficient of 2.7 S, a diffusion coefficient of 9.55 x 10(-7) cm2/s, and an isoelectric point of 8.0. Calculated from the sedimentation and diffusion data, the factor has a molecular weight of about 24,000. Electrophoresis of the purified factor on polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate results in a single band corresponding to a molecular weight of 25,000. The number-average length of the RNA synthesized by RNA polymerase II is increased in the presence of the factor. Sedimentation velocity and exclusion chromatography experiments suggest that the stimulatory factor interacts with RNA polymerase II. These results suggest that the factor stimulates RNA synthesis through a direct interaction with RNA polymerase II. The stoichiometry of the HSF-RNA polymerase binding appears to be about 1:1. HSF is located in the nucleus, as determined by cell fractionation studies.", "contents": "Purification and partial characterization of a stimulatory factor for lamb thymus RNA polymerase II. A heat-stable protein (HSF) that stimulates the activity of lamb thymus RNA polymerase II has been purified 2500-fold and partially characterized. This factor stimulates the activity of RNA polymerase II up to 13 times and retains complete activity when heated at 90 degrees C for 5 min. Stimulation is observed only in the presence of RNA polymerase II and requires native DNA as template. The stimulatory factor has a sedimentation coefficient of 2.7 S, a diffusion coefficient of 9.55 x 10(-7) cm2/s, and an isoelectric point of 8.0. Calculated from the sedimentation and diffusion data, the factor has a molecular weight of about 24,000. Electrophoresis of the purified factor on polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate results in a single band corresponding to a molecular weight of 25,000. The number-average length of the RNA synthesized by RNA polymerase II is increased in the presence of the factor. Sedimentation velocity and exclusion chromatography experiments suggest that the stimulatory factor interacts with RNA polymerase II. These results suggest that the factor stimulates RNA synthesis through a direct interaction with RNA polymerase II. The stoichiometry of the HSF-RNA polymerase binding appears to be about 1:1. HSF is located in the nucleus, as determined by cell fractionation studies.", "PMID": 435487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2772", "title": "Complement fixation by model immune complexes free in solution and bound onto cell surfaces.", "content": "Immunoglobin (IgG) molecules with anti-2,4-dinitrophenyl activity were covalently cross-linked by using three cross-linking reagents. The resulting oligomers were separated into monomer, dimer, trimer, and heavy fractions. These stable assemblages of IgG molecules were capable of fixing dilute whole guinea pig complement in solution. When oligomers were further aggregated noncovalently into larger complexes, all were able to fix complement. Radioiodinated oligomers were attached to 2,4,6,-trinitrophenylsulfonic acid treated sheep red blood cells (N3ph-SRBC), and the number of bound molecules was determined from the cell-associated radioactivity. Complement-mediated lysis of N3ph-SRBC was then assayed over a range of levels of bound protein and at increasing concentrations of complement. The lytic efficiencies of all oligomers increased with the number of bound molecules, with complement concentration, with hapten density on N3ph-SRBC, and with oligomer size. The results suggest that two adjacent IgG molecules may not serve as a unit signal for triggering the complement cascade, but instead, initiation occurs with increasing efficiency as the size of cell-bound IgG clusters increases.", "contents": "Complement fixation by model immune complexes free in solution and bound onto cell surfaces. Immunoglobin (IgG) molecules with anti-2,4-dinitrophenyl activity were covalently cross-linked by using three cross-linking reagents. The resulting oligomers were separated into monomer, dimer, trimer, and heavy fractions. These stable assemblages of IgG molecules were capable of fixing dilute whole guinea pig complement in solution. When oligomers were further aggregated noncovalently into larger complexes, all were able to fix complement. Radioiodinated oligomers were attached to 2,4,6,-trinitrophenylsulfonic acid treated sheep red blood cells (N3ph-SRBC), and the number of bound molecules was determined from the cell-associated radioactivity. Complement-mediated lysis of N3ph-SRBC was then assayed over a range of levels of bound protein and at increasing concentrations of complement. The lytic efficiencies of all oligomers increased with the number of bound molecules, with complement concentration, with hapten density on N3ph-SRBC, and with oligomer size. The results suggest that two adjacent IgG molecules may not serve as a unit signal for triggering the complement cascade, but instead, initiation occurs with increasing efficiency as the size of cell-bound IgG clusters increases.", "PMID": 435488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2773", "title": "Measurement of phospholipid monolayer surface potentials at a hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface.", "content": "The phospholipid monolayer spread at a hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface can be used as a model system for the plasma membrane and its properties and structure probed by measurements of surface pressure and surface potential. To facilitate such studies, (i) the theory of the vibrating plate (Kelvin) method of measuring surface potentials is re\u00ebxamined and a new interpretation given for the potentials measured and (ii) a new apparatus for performing these measurements is described. The theory and apparatus are illustrated by measurements on films of distearoyl phosphatidylcholine at the interface between 2,2,4-trimethylpentane (isooctane) and 0.1 M NaCl.", "contents": "Measurement of phospholipid monolayer surface potentials at a hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface. The phospholipid monolayer spread at a hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface can be used as a model system for the plasma membrane and its properties and structure probed by measurements of surface pressure and surface potential. To facilitate such studies, (i) the theory of the vibrating plate (Kelvin) method of measuring surface potentials is re\u00ebxamined and a new interpretation given for the potentials measured and (ii) a new apparatus for performing these measurements is described. The theory and apparatus are illustrated by measurements on films of distearoyl phosphatidylcholine at the interface between 2,2,4-trimethylpentane (isooctane) and 0.1 M NaCl.", "PMID": 435489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2774", "title": "Phospholipid monolayers at the hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface. The interrelation of film potential and film pressure.", "content": "Measurements of surface pressure of surface potential are reported for films of distearoyl phosphatidylcholine (density range: 0.15--2.65 . 10(18) molecules/m2) spread at the interface between 2,2,4-trimethylpentane and 100 mM NaCl. Low density behavior of the surface pressure is explained using classical viral theory. The behavior of the surface potential is qualitatively explained for all densities in terms of the dipole moments associated with the carboxyl groups and headgroups of the phosphatidylcholine.", "contents": "Phospholipid monolayers at the hydrocarbon-electrolyte interface. The interrelation of film potential and film pressure. Measurements of surface pressure of surface potential are reported for films of distearoyl phosphatidylcholine (density range: 0.15--2.65 . 10(18) molecules/m2) spread at the interface between 2,2,4-trimethylpentane and 100 mM NaCl. Low density behavior of the surface pressure is explained using classical viral theory. The behavior of the surface potential is qualitatively explained for all densities in terms of the dipole moments associated with the carboxyl groups and headgroups of the phosphatidylcholine.", "PMID": 435490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2775", "title": "Quantitation of antibody binding to cell surface antigens by x-ray fluorescence spectrometry.", "content": "An X-ray spectrometric method has been developed to quantitate antibody bindng to whole cell surfaces in order to obtain a distribution of binding within a population of cells. The method involves incubation of target cells with ferritin-labeled antibody. Analysis of prepared samples in a modified transmission electron microscope with an X-ray detector and data analysis equipment, yields quantitative results on the binding of labeled antibody to individual cells. The binding of anti-2,4-dinitrophenol serum to Chinese hamster ovary cells with attached 2,4-dinitrophenol haptens was measured by X-ray spectrometry. Measurements of attached hapten by a radioisotopic marker correlated with the X-ray spectrometric determination of bound antibody. The use of synchronized cells in metaphase and G1 phases of the cell cycle permitted investigations into the binding per unit surface area. The distribution of antibody binding among a given population of cells was related to the surface area of the cells.", "contents": "Quantitation of antibody binding to cell surface antigens by x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. An X-ray spectrometric method has been developed to quantitate antibody bindng to whole cell surfaces in order to obtain a distribution of binding within a population of cells. The method involves incubation of target cells with ferritin-labeled antibody. Analysis of prepared samples in a modified transmission electron microscope with an X-ray detector and data analysis equipment, yields quantitative results on the binding of labeled antibody to individual cells. The binding of anti-2,4-dinitrophenol serum to Chinese hamster ovary cells with attached 2,4-dinitrophenol haptens was measured by X-ray spectrometry. Measurements of attached hapten by a radioisotopic marker correlated with the X-ray spectrometric determination of bound antibody. The use of synchronized cells in metaphase and G1 phases of the cell cycle permitted investigations into the binding per unit surface area. The distribution of antibody binding among a given population of cells was related to the surface area of the cells.", "PMID": 435491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2776", "title": "Na+-dependent, electroneutral L-ascorbate transport across brush border membrane vesicles from guinea pig small intestine.", "content": "In brush border vesicles from guinea pig small intestine L-ascorbate transport is Na+-dependent and electroneutral (in the presence of Na+, as shown by its lack of response to either positive or negative delta psi across the membrane). L-Ascorbate transporter has the kinetic characteristics of a mobile carrier (Km for L-ascorbate, 0.3 mM). D-Isoascorbate (erythorbate) seems to be another, but poorer, substrate of the same transporter. L-Ascorbate transport is subjected to heterologous inhibition by D-glucose.", "contents": "Na+-dependent, electroneutral L-ascorbate transport across brush border membrane vesicles from guinea pig small intestine. In brush border vesicles from guinea pig small intestine L-ascorbate transport is Na+-dependent and electroneutral (in the presence of Na+, as shown by its lack of response to either positive or negative delta psi across the membrane). L-Ascorbate transporter has the kinetic characteristics of a mobile carrier (Km for L-ascorbate, 0.3 mM). D-Isoascorbate (erythorbate) seems to be another, but poorer, substrate of the same transporter. L-Ascorbate transport is subjected to heterologous inhibition by D-glucose.", "PMID": 435492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2777", "title": "Purification of the cytochalasin B binding component of the human erythrocyte monosaccharide transport system.", "content": "The cytochalasin B binding component of the human erythrocyte monosaccharide transport system has been purified. The preparation appears to contain one major protein with an apparent polypeptide chain molecular weight of 55,000 and about 0.4 binding sites per chain. Cytochalasin B binds to the reconstituted preparation with a dissociation constant of 1.3.10(-7) M, a value which is similar to that reported for the transport system in the intact erythrocyte.", "contents": "Purification of the cytochalasin B binding component of the human erythrocyte monosaccharide transport system. The cytochalasin B binding component of the human erythrocyte monosaccharide transport system has been purified. The preparation appears to contain one major protein with an apparent polypeptide chain molecular weight of 55,000 and about 0.4 binding sites per chain. Cytochalasin B binds to the reconstituted preparation with a dissociation constant of 1.3.10(-7) M, a value which is similar to that reported for the transport system in the intact erythrocyte.", "PMID": 435493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2778", "title": "Cell-surface glycosaminoglycans are not released from human diploid fibroblasts by non-enzymatic methods.", "content": "Attempts were made to release glycosaminoglycans from the surface of intact fibroblasts in culture by changes in pH and ionic strength of the surrounding medium. No additional macromolecular material was released by such 5-min treatments, while 0.01% trypsin released 50 times the amount naturally shed. These results suggest a covalent attachment of glycosaminoglycans to the cell membrane. Cytochalasin B did not effect release of surface components, but a small amount of sulfated glycosaminoglycan was released by inclusion of heparin in the incubation medium.", "contents": "Cell-surface glycosaminoglycans are not released from human diploid fibroblasts by non-enzymatic methods. Attempts were made to release glycosaminoglycans from the surface of intact fibroblasts in culture by changes in pH and ionic strength of the surrounding medium. No additional macromolecular material was released by such 5-min treatments, while 0.01% trypsin released 50 times the amount naturally shed. These results suggest a covalent attachment of glycosaminoglycans to the cell membrane. Cytochalasin B did not effect release of surface components, but a small amount of sulfated glycosaminoglycan was released by inclusion of heparin in the incubation medium.", "PMID": 435494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2779", "title": "The organisation of cholesterol and ergosterol in lipid bilayers based on studies using non-perturbing fluorescent sterol probes.", "content": "The fluorescence properties of dehydroergosterol and cholesta-5,7,9-trien-3 beta-ol have been studied in organic solution, in aqueous dispersions and incorporated into aqueous lipid dispersions. The absorption spectra of aqueous dispersions of the probes are very different to those in organic solution, and aqueous dispersions are non-fluorescent. This can be attributed to micelle formation with dimerisation and/or aggregation in the micelles. Concentration quenching also occurs when sterols are incorporated into lipid bilayers, but relatively high fluorescence is observed even at a 1 : 1 steroid:lipid molar ratio. Further, the fluorescence is still polarized at these high molar ratios. We attribute this to the formation of ordered arrays of sterol molecules in the lipid bilayers. In these arrays the sterol molecules are organised in an end-to-end fashion, and face-to-face overlap of the sterols is prevented by the lipid molecules. Possible structures for 1 : 1 mixtures are presented.", "contents": "The organisation of cholesterol and ergosterol in lipid bilayers based on studies using non-perturbing fluorescent sterol probes. The fluorescence properties of dehydroergosterol and cholesta-5,7,9-trien-3 beta-ol have been studied in organic solution, in aqueous dispersions and incorporated into aqueous lipid dispersions. The absorption spectra of aqueous dispersions of the probes are very different to those in organic solution, and aqueous dispersions are non-fluorescent. This can be attributed to micelle formation with dimerisation and/or aggregation in the micelles. Concentration quenching also occurs when sterols are incorporated into lipid bilayers, but relatively high fluorescence is observed even at a 1 : 1 steroid:lipid molar ratio. Further, the fluorescence is still polarized at these high molar ratios. We attribute this to the formation of ordered arrays of sterol molecules in the lipid bilayers. In these arrays the sterol molecules are organised in an end-to-end fashion, and face-to-face overlap of the sterols is prevented by the lipid molecules. Possible structures for 1 : 1 mixtures are presented.", "PMID": 435495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2780", "title": "Repression of rRNA synthesis induced by disaggregation in Dictyostelium discoideum.", "content": "Cells disaggregated from the slugs of Dictyostelium discoideum continued to incorporate [3H]uridine or [3H]uracil, though at a lower rate than interphase amoebae. Disaggregation brought about a marked increase in the proportion of labeled poly(A)-containing RNA to labeled total RNA. The proportion reached the maximum in disaggregated cells after 1 h of incubation, but remained high even after 5 h of incubation. Reconstruction of slugs from the disaggregated cells did not bring about a decrease but a further increase in the proportion. The real proportion estimated from the minimum period of labeling reached almost 100% in the disaggregated cells, in contrast to about 30% in the interphase amoebae. The increase in the proportion is attributed to the disaggregation-induced repression of rRNA synthesis, which was supported by sucrose density gradient analyses of RNA synthesized in the disaggregated cells. The possibility that rRNA synthesis in this organism is regulated by the loss of cell contact is discussed.", "contents": "Repression of rRNA synthesis induced by disaggregation in Dictyostelium discoideum. Cells disaggregated from the slugs of Dictyostelium discoideum continued to incorporate [3H]uridine or [3H]uracil, though at a lower rate than interphase amoebae. Disaggregation brought about a marked increase in the proportion of labeled poly(A)-containing RNA to labeled total RNA. The proportion reached the maximum in disaggregated cells after 1 h of incubation, but remained high even after 5 h of incubation. Reconstruction of slugs from the disaggregated cells did not bring about a decrease but a further increase in the proportion. The real proportion estimated from the minimum period of labeling reached almost 100% in the disaggregated cells, in contrast to about 30% in the interphase amoebae. The increase in the proportion is attributed to the disaggregation-induced repression of rRNA synthesis, which was supported by sucrose density gradient analyses of RNA synthesized in the disaggregated cells. The possibility that rRNA synthesis in this organism is regulated by the loss of cell contact is discussed.", "PMID": 435496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2781", "title": "Inhibition of endogenous RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin by transcortin-hydrocortisone complex.", "content": "A transortin-hydrocortisone complex has been isolated from human serum by affinity chromatography on oxidized corticosterone coupled to AH-Sepharose 4B. The influence of this complex and of hydrocortisone alone on endogenous RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin have been tested. Results show that hydrocortisone alone has no effect on RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin. Under the same experimental conditions, The transcortin-hydrocortisone complex induces an important decrease in the incorporation of UMP into RNA. The dose response of thymic RNA polymerase to transcortin-hydrocortisone complex and the effects of alpha-amanitin on this response are also reported.", "contents": "Inhibition of endogenous RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin by transcortin-hydrocortisone complex. A transortin-hydrocortisone complex has been isolated from human serum by affinity chromatography on oxidized corticosterone coupled to AH-Sepharose 4B. The influence of this complex and of hydrocortisone alone on endogenous RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin have been tested. Results show that hydrocortisone alone has no effect on RNA polymerase activity from thymus chromatin. Under the same experimental conditions, The transcortin-hydrocortisone complex induces an important decrease in the incorporation of UMP into RNA. The dose response of thymic RNA polymerase to transcortin-hydrocortisone complex and the effects of alpha-amanitin on this response are also reported.", "PMID": 435497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2782", "title": "Regulation of purine de novo synthesis in cultured human fibroblasts: the role of P-ribose-PP.", "content": "Procedures for assaying the rate of purine de novo synthesis in cultured fibroblast cells have been compared. These were (i) the incorporation of [(14)C]-glycine or [(14)C]formate in alpha-N-formylglycinamide ribonucleotide (an intermediate in the purine synthetic pathway) and (ii) the incorporation of [(14)C]-formate into newly synthesised cellular purines and purines excreted by the cell into the medium. Fibroblast cells, derived from patients with a deficiency of hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT-) (EC 2.4.2.8) and increased rates of purine de novo synthesis, were compared with fibroblasts from healthy subjects (HPRT+). Fetal calf serum, which was used to supplement the assay and cell growth medium, was found to contain sufficient quantities of the purine base hypoxanthine to inhibit purine de novo synthesis in HPRT+ cells. This inhibition was the basis of differentiation between HPRT- and HPRT+ cells. In the absence of added purine base, both cell types had similar capacities for purine de novo synthesis. This result contrasts with the increased rates of purine de novo synthesis reported for a number of human HPRT- cells in culture but conforms recent studies made on human HPRT- lymphoblast cells. The intracellular concentration and utilisation of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (P-Rib-PP), a substrate and potential controlling factor for purine de novo synthesis, were determined in HPRT- and HPRT+ cells. The rate of utilisation of P-Rib-PP in the salvage of free purine bases was far greater than that in purine de novo synthesis. Although HPRT- cells had a 3-fold increase in P-Rib-PP content, the rate of P-Rib-PP generation was similar to HPRT+ cells. Thus, in fibroblasts, the concentration of P-Rib-PP appears to be critical in the control of de novo purine synthesis and its preferential utilisation in the HPRT reaction limits its availability for purine de novo synthesis. In vivo, HPRT+ cells, in contrast to HPRT- cells, may be operating purine de novo synthesis at a reduced rate because of their ability to reutilise hypoxanthine.", "contents": "Regulation of purine de novo synthesis in cultured human fibroblasts: the role of P-ribose-PP. Procedures for assaying the rate of purine de novo synthesis in cultured fibroblast cells have been compared. These were (i) the incorporation of [(14)C]-glycine or [(14)C]formate in alpha-N-formylglycinamide ribonucleotide (an intermediate in the purine synthetic pathway) and (ii) the incorporation of [(14)C]-formate into newly synthesised cellular purines and purines excreted by the cell into the medium. Fibroblast cells, derived from patients with a deficiency of hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT-) (EC 2.4.2.8) and increased rates of purine de novo synthesis, were compared with fibroblasts from healthy subjects (HPRT+). Fetal calf serum, which was used to supplement the assay and cell growth medium, was found to contain sufficient quantities of the purine base hypoxanthine to inhibit purine de novo synthesis in HPRT+ cells. This inhibition was the basis of differentiation between HPRT- and HPRT+ cells. In the absence of added purine base, both cell types had similar capacities for purine de novo synthesis. This result contrasts with the increased rates of purine de novo synthesis reported for a number of human HPRT- cells in culture but conforms recent studies made on human HPRT- lymphoblast cells. The intracellular concentration and utilisation of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (P-Rib-PP), a substrate and potential controlling factor for purine de novo synthesis, were determined in HPRT- and HPRT+ cells. The rate of utilisation of P-Rib-PP in the salvage of free purine bases was far greater than that in purine de novo synthesis. Although HPRT- cells had a 3-fold increase in P-Rib-PP content, the rate of P-Rib-PP generation was similar to HPRT+ cells. Thus, in fibroblasts, the concentration of P-Rib-PP appears to be critical in the control of de novo purine synthesis and its preferential utilisation in the HPRT reaction limits its availability for purine de novo synthesis. In vivo, HPRT+ cells, in contrast to HPRT- cells, may be operating purine de novo synthesis at a reduced rate because of their ability to reutilise hypoxanthine.", "PMID": 435498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2783", "title": "Qualitative and quantitative aspects of intercalator-induced DNA strand breaks.", "content": "The intercalating agents, adriamycin and ellipticine, were previously found to produce DNA strand breaks associated with DNA-protein crosslinks in mouse leukemia L1210 cells. The current work explores the nature of the agents that produce this effect and the quantitative relationship between the breaks and crosslinks. The protein-associated DNA breaks were produced by a wide variety of intercalators in addition to the above-mentioned compounds: actinomycin D, daunoycin, ethidium and lucanthone (miracil D). Treatment with several drugs that bind to DNA without intercalation, or that inhibit DNA synthesis without binding to DNA, did not cause DNA breaks. The strand break and crosslink frequencies were quantitated by means of alkaline elution methods. The strand break and crosslink frequencies were found to be within a factor of 2 of each other over a range of concentrations of adriamycin and ellipticine. It is proposed that intercalation-induced distortion of the DNA helix leads to strand scission by a nuclease which becomes bound to one terminus of the break so as to form a DNA-protein crosslink.", "contents": "Qualitative and quantitative aspects of intercalator-induced DNA strand breaks. The intercalating agents, adriamycin and ellipticine, were previously found to produce DNA strand breaks associated with DNA-protein crosslinks in mouse leukemia L1210 cells. The current work explores the nature of the agents that produce this effect and the quantitative relationship between the breaks and crosslinks. The protein-associated DNA breaks were produced by a wide variety of intercalators in addition to the above-mentioned compounds: actinomycin D, daunoycin, ethidium and lucanthone (miracil D). Treatment with several drugs that bind to DNA without intercalation, or that inhibit DNA synthesis without binding to DNA, did not cause DNA breaks. The strand break and crosslink frequencies were quantitated by means of alkaline elution methods. The strand break and crosslink frequencies were found to be within a factor of 2 of each other over a range of concentrations of adriamycin and ellipticine. It is proposed that intercalation-induced distortion of the DNA helix leads to strand scission by a nuclease which becomes bound to one terminus of the break so as to form a DNA-protein crosslink.", "PMID": 435499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2784", "title": "The role of DNA polymerases alpha, beta and gamma in nuclear DNA synthesis.", "content": "The effects of the inhibitors 2'3' dideoxythymidine triphosphate (ddTTP) and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl cytosine triphosphate (araCTP) on DNA synthesis in isolated S-phase HeLa S3 nuclei have been examined. These effects are compared with the effects of the same inhibitors in partially purified preparations of DNA polymerases alpha and beta. The effect of ddTTP on partially purified DNA polymerase gamma was also tested. DNA polymerases beta and gamma were very sensitive to ddTTP whereas DNA polymerase alpha and DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei were quite resistant. The synthesis and subsequent ligation of primary DNA pieces ('Okazaki fragments') were not affected by the presence of this inhibitor. DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei and DNA polymerase alpha activity were very sensitive to araCTP whereas DNA polymerase beta was almost totally resistant to the inhibitor. The results indicate a major role for DNA polymerase alpha in DNA replication.", "contents": "The role of DNA polymerases alpha, beta and gamma in nuclear DNA synthesis. The effects of the inhibitors 2'3' dideoxythymidine triphosphate (ddTTP) and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl cytosine triphosphate (araCTP) on DNA synthesis in isolated S-phase HeLa S3 nuclei have been examined. These effects are compared with the effects of the same inhibitors in partially purified preparations of DNA polymerases alpha and beta. The effect of ddTTP on partially purified DNA polymerase gamma was also tested. DNA polymerases beta and gamma were very sensitive to ddTTP whereas DNA polymerase alpha and DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei were quite resistant. The synthesis and subsequent ligation of primary DNA pieces ('Okazaki fragments') were not affected by the presence of this inhibitor. DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei and DNA polymerase alpha activity were very sensitive to araCTP whereas DNA polymerase beta was almost totally resistant to the inhibitor. The results indicate a major role for DNA polymerase alpha in DNA replication.", "PMID": 435500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2785", "title": "Metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid in rats.", "content": "The metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphono-[2-(14)C]propionic acid or 2-amino-3-phosphono-[3-(14)C]propionic acid in rats was studied in vivo and in vitro. The radioactivity in expired CO2 from the [3-(14)C]-labelled compound indicated the cleavage of the carbon-phosphorus (C-P) bond. A small amount of the [2-(14)C]-labelled compound and the [3-(14C]-labelled compound was incorporated into 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid, and polar lipid of the liver and kidney contained the 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid. The 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid was not detected at the lipid level. Incorporation of the [3-(14)C]-labelled compound into a variety of metabolites including 3-phosphonopyruvic acid and 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde suggests the transamination reaction as a decomposition mechanism of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid in mammals.", "contents": "Metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid in rats. The metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphono-[2-(14)C]propionic acid or 2-amino-3-phosphono-[3-(14)C]propionic acid in rats was studied in vivo and in vitro. The radioactivity in expired CO2 from the [3-(14)C]-labelled compound indicated the cleavage of the carbon-phosphorus (C-P) bond. A small amount of the [2-(14)C]-labelled compound and the [3-(14C]-labelled compound was incorporated into 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid, and polar lipid of the liver and kidney contained the 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid. The 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid was not detected at the lipid level. Incorporation of the [3-(14)C]-labelled compound into a variety of metabolites including 3-phosphonopyruvic acid and 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde suggests the transamination reaction as a decomposition mechanism of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid in mammals.", "PMID": 435501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2786", "title": "Synthesis of 1-palmitoyl and 1-stearoyl phosphatidylcholines from mixtures of acyl acceptors via acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase in liver microsomes.", "content": "The fatty acid selectivity of the acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase in rat liver microsomes was studied using a mixture of the [1-(3)H]palmitoyl plus [1-(14C)stearoyl molecular species of 1-acylglyceryl-phosphorylcholine. At a 1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine concentration of 0.16 mM, the enzyme exhibited a selectivity of 3.5-fold for the 1-palmitoyl over the 1-stearoyl species of the acyl acceptor and reaction velocities with linoleoyl- and arachidonoyl-CoA were 38--47% greater than with oleoyl-CoA. Lowering the acceptor concentration to 0.016 mM gave reaction rates with the polyenoic thiolesters which were 174--187% greater than with oleoyl-CoA and the 1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine was preferred by 2.2, 1.6, and 1.6-fold with oleoyl-, linoleoyl- and arachidonoyl-CoA, respectively. The results support the potential importance of the fatty acid selectivities of the acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase towards both acyl acceptor and donor in regulating the phosphatidylcholine species formed by the reaction in vivo.", "contents": "Synthesis of 1-palmitoyl and 1-stearoyl phosphatidylcholines from mixtures of acyl acceptors via acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase in liver microsomes. The fatty acid selectivity of the acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase in rat liver microsomes was studied using a mixture of the [1-(3)H]palmitoyl plus [1-(14C)stearoyl molecular species of 1-acylglyceryl-phosphorylcholine. At a 1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine concentration of 0.16 mM, the enzyme exhibited a selectivity of 3.5-fold for the 1-palmitoyl over the 1-stearoyl species of the acyl acceptor and reaction velocities with linoleoyl- and arachidonoyl-CoA were 38--47% greater than with oleoyl-CoA. Lowering the acceptor concentration to 0.016 mM gave reaction rates with the polyenoic thiolesters which were 174--187% greater than with oleoyl-CoA and the 1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine was preferred by 2.2, 1.6, and 1.6-fold with oleoyl-, linoleoyl- and arachidonoyl-CoA, respectively. The results support the potential importance of the fatty acid selectivities of the acyl-CoA:1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine acyltransferase towards both acyl acceptor and donor in regulating the phosphatidylcholine species formed by the reaction in vivo.", "PMID": 435502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2787", "title": "Chemical structures of mono-, di-, tri-, and tetraglycosyl glycerides in rice bran.", "content": "1. Monoglycosyl monoglyceride, mono-, di-, tri- and tetraglycosyl diglycerides were isolated from rice bran and characterized for their chemical structures. 2. Monoglycosyl monoglycerides were characterized as Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1- or 2-monoacyl-sn-glycerol and Glc(beta 1' leads to 3)-1- or 2-monoacyl-sn-glycerol. 3. The structures of monoglycosyl diglyceride were Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol and Glc(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2diacyl-sn-glycerol. Epimeric separation of the galactosyl and glucosyl glycerides was for the first time achieved by thin-layer chromatography. 4. The main diglycosyl diglyceride was shown to be Gal(alpha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol. 5. The major structure of triglycosyl diglyceride was characterized as Gal(alpha 1''' leads to 6'')-Gal(alpha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol. 6. The representative structure of tetraglycosyl diglyceride was for the first time established as Gal(alpha 1'''' leads to 6''')-Gal(alpha 1''' leads to 6'')-Gal(a-pha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol.", "contents": "Chemical structures of mono-, di-, tri-, and tetraglycosyl glycerides in rice bran. 1. Monoglycosyl monoglyceride, mono-, di-, tri- and tetraglycosyl diglycerides were isolated from rice bran and characterized for their chemical structures. 2. Monoglycosyl monoglycerides were characterized as Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1- or 2-monoacyl-sn-glycerol and Glc(beta 1' leads to 3)-1- or 2-monoacyl-sn-glycerol. 3. The structures of monoglycosyl diglyceride were Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol and Glc(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2diacyl-sn-glycerol. Epimeric separation of the galactosyl and glucosyl glycerides was for the first time achieved by thin-layer chromatography. 4. The main diglycosyl diglyceride was shown to be Gal(alpha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol. 5. The major structure of triglycosyl diglyceride was characterized as Gal(alpha 1''' leads to 6'')-Gal(alpha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta 1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol. 6. The representative structure of tetraglycosyl diglyceride was for the first time established as Gal(alpha 1'''' leads to 6''')-Gal(alpha 1''' leads to 6'')-Gal(a-pha 1'' leads to 6')-Gal(beta1' leads to 3)-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol.", "PMID": 435505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2788", "title": "Prostaglandin production by type II alveolar epithelial cells.", "content": "Prostaglandin production was studied in fetal and adult type II alveolar epithelial cells. Two culture systems were employed, fetal rat lung organotypic cultures consisting of fetal type II cells and monolayer cultures of adult lung type II cells. Dexamethasone, thyroxine, prolactin and insulin, hormones which influence lung development, each reduced the production of prostaglandin E and F alpha by the organotypic cultures. The fetal cultures produced relatively large quantities of prostaglandin E and F alpha and smaller quantities of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha and thromboxane B2. However, prostaglandin E2 production was predominant. In contrast, the adult type II cells in monolayer culture produced predominantly prostacyclin (6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha) along with smaller quantities of prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha. The type II cells were relatively unresponsive to prostaglandins. Exogenously added prostaglandin E, had no effect on cell growth, and only a minimal effect on cyclic AMP levels in the monolayer cultures.", "contents": "Prostaglandin production by type II alveolar epithelial cells. Prostaglandin production was studied in fetal and adult type II alveolar epithelial cells. Two culture systems were employed, fetal rat lung organotypic cultures consisting of fetal type II cells and monolayer cultures of adult lung type II cells. Dexamethasone, thyroxine, prolactin and insulin, hormones which influence lung development, each reduced the production of prostaglandin E and F alpha by the organotypic cultures. The fetal cultures produced relatively large quantities of prostaglandin E and F alpha and smaller quantities of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha and thromboxane B2. However, prostaglandin E2 production was predominant. In contrast, the adult type II cells in monolayer culture produced predominantly prostacyclin (6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha) along with smaller quantities of prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha. The type II cells were relatively unresponsive to prostaglandins. Exogenously added prostaglandin E, had no effect on cell growth, and only a minimal effect on cyclic AMP levels in the monolayer cultures.", "PMID": 435506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2789", "title": "A comparison of acyl-oxyester and acyl-thioester substrates for some lipolytic enzymes.", "content": "1. A comparison of 2-hexadecanoylthio-ethane-1-phosphocholine and 3-hexadecanoylthio-propane-1-phosphocholine and their oxyester counterparts as substrates for some lipolytic enzymes was made. 2. The critical micelle concentration and the transition temperature of the synthetic substrates were compared with the values for 1-hexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. 3. All above-mentioned compounds were deacylated by lysophospholipases. Phospholipase A2 hydrolyzed only the acyl- sulfur- and oxygenester bond in 2-hexadecanoyl-ethane-1-phosphocholine. 4. Kinetic parameters, Km and V, for hydrolysis of these substrates were determined. Km values for thioester substrates were 5--10 fold lower than for the corresponding oxyesters. Maximal hydrolysis rates were 2--5 times higher for the thioesters. 5. Hydrolysis of thioesters by phospholipase A2, lipase and lysophospholipase was shown to proceed by an S-acyl cleavage mechanism. 6. Beef liver lysophospholipase II was rapidly and stoichiometrically inactivated by diisopropylfluorophosphate and bis(p-nitrophenyl) phosphate. Inactivation by the latter inhibitor showed burst-like kinetics. 7. Attempts to show burst-kinetics during the pre-steady state hydrolysis of 2-hexadecanoylthio-ethane-1-phosphocholine by lysophospholipase II were negative. These results are interpreted to indicated that a step prior to deacylation of the enzyme is rate-determining.", "contents": "A comparison of acyl-oxyester and acyl-thioester substrates for some lipolytic enzymes. 1. A comparison of 2-hexadecanoylthio-ethane-1-phosphocholine and 3-hexadecanoylthio-propane-1-phosphocholine and their oxyester counterparts as substrates for some lipolytic enzymes was made. 2. The critical micelle concentration and the transition temperature of the synthetic substrates were compared with the values for 1-hexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. 3. All above-mentioned compounds were deacylated by lysophospholipases. Phospholipase A2 hydrolyzed only the acyl- sulfur- and oxygenester bond in 2-hexadecanoyl-ethane-1-phosphocholine. 4. Kinetic parameters, Km and V, for hydrolysis of these substrates were determined. Km values for thioester substrates were 5--10 fold lower than for the corresponding oxyesters. Maximal hydrolysis rates were 2--5 times higher for the thioesters. 5. Hydrolysis of thioesters by phospholipase A2, lipase and lysophospholipase was shown to proceed by an S-acyl cleavage mechanism. 6. Beef liver lysophospholipase II was rapidly and stoichiometrically inactivated by diisopropylfluorophosphate and bis(p-nitrophenyl) phosphate. Inactivation by the latter inhibitor showed burst-like kinetics. 7. Attempts to show burst-kinetics during the pre-steady state hydrolysis of 2-hexadecanoylthio-ethane-1-phosphocholine by lysophospholipase II were negative. These results are interpreted to indicated that a step prior to deacylation of the enzyme is rate-determining.", "PMID": 435507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2790", "title": "Variations in mitochondrial monoamine oxidase during progressive starvation in the brain of developing rats.", "content": "Effects of progressive starvation of 12, 24, 48 and 60 h upon brain mitochondrial monoamine oxidase activity were studied. The enzyme activity was determined by three different substrates: 14C-labeled tryptamine, dopamine and kynuramine. With dopamine as substrate, the enzyme activity showed decline during 24 and 48 h of starvation. Monoamine oxidase when determined by tryptamine as the substrate, showed a decrease after 60 h of starvation. The use of kynuramine as substrate also produced a decrease in enzyme activity after 48 and 60 h of starvation. Refeeding the 60-h-starved rats for the following 24 h resulted in further decrease of monoamine oxidase activity of brain mitochondria from the 60 h starved values. The results suggest that oxidative deamination of biogenic amines is greatly inhibited during progressive starvation and remains low even after feeding the 60 h starved rats for 24 h.", "contents": "Variations in mitochondrial monoamine oxidase during progressive starvation in the brain of developing rats. Effects of progressive starvation of 12, 24, 48 and 60 h upon brain mitochondrial monoamine oxidase activity were studied. The enzyme activity was determined by three different substrates: 14C-labeled tryptamine, dopamine and kynuramine. With dopamine as substrate, the enzyme activity showed decline during 24 and 48 h of starvation. Monoamine oxidase when determined by tryptamine as the substrate, showed a decrease after 60 h of starvation. The use of kynuramine as substrate also produced a decrease in enzyme activity after 48 and 60 h of starvation. Refeeding the 60-h-starved rats for the following 24 h resulted in further decrease of monoamine oxidase activity of brain mitochondria from the 60 h starved values. The results suggest that oxidative deamination of biogenic amines is greatly inhibited during progressive starvation and remains low even after feeding the 60 h starved rats for 24 h.", "PMID": 435508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2791", "title": "Chemical and enzymic degradations of nucleoside mono- and diphosphate sugars. I. Determination of the degradation rate during the glycosyltransferase assays.", "content": "In incorporation experiments used for the determination of glycosyltransferase activities, we demonstrated that the nucleoside diphosphate sugars are decomposed in three different ways: 1, transfer of the monosaccharide to acceptor molecule, catalyzed by glycosyltransferases; 2, degradation of the glycosyl nucleotides by nucleotide pyrophosphatase into monosaccharide 1-phosphates which are further hydrolyzed into free monosaccharides by phosphatases; 3, chemical decomposition of UDP-D-[14C]Gal; UDP-D-[14C]Glc and UDP-D-[14C]GlcUA into 1,2-cyclic phosphate derivatives of the corresponding monosaccharide. All the breakdown products of the nucleoside mono- and diphosphate sugars which are obtained during the incorporation experiments may be separated by paper chromatography and their amounts may be determined. Galactosyltransferase assays on human and rat serum have shown that the three different ways of decomposition of the nucleoside diphosphate sugars are dependent mostly on the concentration of divalent cations (Mn2+, Mg2+). Inhibition of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity is obtained with low concentrations of UMP, but increasing concentrations of UMP inhibit also the galactosyltransferase activity and consequently enhance the formation of galactose 1,2-monophosphate. A partial elimination of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity was achieved by the addition of increasing concentrations of UDP-D-Gal. These results demonstrate that the determination of glycosyltransferase activities in tissues and in biological fluids is not possible without a concomitant determination of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity present in the assay.", "contents": "Chemical and enzymic degradations of nucleoside mono- and diphosphate sugars. I. Determination of the degradation rate during the glycosyltransferase assays. In incorporation experiments used for the determination of glycosyltransferase activities, we demonstrated that the nucleoside diphosphate sugars are decomposed in three different ways: 1, transfer of the monosaccharide to acceptor molecule, catalyzed by glycosyltransferases; 2, degradation of the glycosyl nucleotides by nucleotide pyrophosphatase into monosaccharide 1-phosphates which are further hydrolyzed into free monosaccharides by phosphatases; 3, chemical decomposition of UDP-D-[14C]Gal; UDP-D-[14C]Glc and UDP-D-[14C]GlcUA into 1,2-cyclic phosphate derivatives of the corresponding monosaccharide. All the breakdown products of the nucleoside mono- and diphosphate sugars which are obtained during the incorporation experiments may be separated by paper chromatography and their amounts may be determined. Galactosyltransferase assays on human and rat serum have shown that the three different ways of decomposition of the nucleoside diphosphate sugars are dependent mostly on the concentration of divalent cations (Mn2+, Mg2+). Inhibition of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity is obtained with low concentrations of UMP, but increasing concentrations of UMP inhibit also the galactosyltransferase activity and consequently enhance the formation of galactose 1,2-monophosphate. A partial elimination of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity was achieved by the addition of increasing concentrations of UDP-D-Gal. These results demonstrate that the determination of glycosyltransferase activities in tissues and in biological fluids is not possible without a concomitant determination of the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity present in the assay.", "PMID": 435509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2792", "title": "Elevated levels of a calcium-activated muscle protease in rapidly atrophying muscles from vitamin E-deficient rabbits.", "content": "A Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme that partially degrades myofibrils was isolated from hind limb muscles of normal rabbits and rabbits undergoing rapid muscle atrophy as a result of vitamin E deficiency. Extractable Ca2+-activated protease activity was 3.6 times higher in muscle tissue from vitamin E-deficient rabbits than from muscle tissue of control rabbits. Ultrastructural studies of muscle from vitamin E-deficient rabbits showed that the Z disk was the first myofibrillar structure to show degradative changes in atrophying muscle. Myofibrils prepared from muscles from vitamin E-deficient rabbits showed partial or complete loss of Z-disk density. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the amount of troponin-T (37 000 daltons) and alpha-actinin (96 000 daltons) was reduced in myofibrils from atrophying muscle as compared to myofibrils prepared from control muscle. In vitro treatment of purified myofibrils with purified Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme produced alterations in myofibrillar ultrastructure that were identical to the initial alterations occurring in myofibrils from atrophying muscle (i.e. weakening and subsequent removal of Z disks). Additonally the electrophoretic banding pattern of Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme-treated myofibrils is very similar to that of myofibrils prepared from muscles atrophying as a result of nutritional vitamin E deficiency. The possible role of Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme in disassembly and degradation of the myofibril is discussed.", "contents": "Elevated levels of a calcium-activated muscle protease in rapidly atrophying muscles from vitamin E-deficient rabbits. A Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme that partially degrades myofibrils was isolated from hind limb muscles of normal rabbits and rabbits undergoing rapid muscle atrophy as a result of vitamin E deficiency. Extractable Ca2+-activated protease activity was 3.6 times higher in muscle tissue from vitamin E-deficient rabbits than from muscle tissue of control rabbits. Ultrastructural studies of muscle from vitamin E-deficient rabbits showed that the Z disk was the first myofibrillar structure to show degradative changes in atrophying muscle. Myofibrils prepared from muscles from vitamin E-deficient rabbits showed partial or complete loss of Z-disk density. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the amount of troponin-T (37 000 daltons) and alpha-actinin (96 000 daltons) was reduced in myofibrils from atrophying muscle as compared to myofibrils prepared from control muscle. In vitro treatment of purified myofibrils with purified Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme produced alterations in myofibrillar ultrastructure that were identical to the initial alterations occurring in myofibrils from atrophying muscle (i.e. weakening and subsequent removal of Z disks). Additonally the electrophoretic banding pattern of Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme-treated myofibrils is very similar to that of myofibrils prepared from muscles atrophying as a result of nutritional vitamin E deficiency. The possible role of Ca2+-activated proteolytic enzyme in disassembly and degradation of the myofibril is discussed.", "PMID": 435510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2793", "title": "Endocytosis in adenosine triphosphate-depleted erythrocytes.", "content": "The extent of membrane invagination or endocytosis in intact erythrocytes was quantified by measuring the loss of acetylcholinesterase activity. Primaquine-induced endocytosis was completely inhibited in ATP-depleted cells. However, chlorpromazine and vinblastine were capable of inducing membrane invagination in depleted cells. With both drugs, the loss of enzyme activity was less than that measured in fresh cells. We conclude that drug-induced endocytosis is not necessarily an energy-dependent process.", "contents": "Endocytosis in adenosine triphosphate-depleted erythrocytes. The extent of membrane invagination or endocytosis in intact erythrocytes was quantified by measuring the loss of acetylcholinesterase activity. Primaquine-induced endocytosis was completely inhibited in ATP-depleted cells. However, chlorpromazine and vinblastine were capable of inducing membrane invagination in depleted cells. With both drugs, the loss of enzyme activity was less than that measured in fresh cells. We conclude that drug-induced endocytosis is not necessarily an energy-dependent process.", "PMID": 435511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2794", "title": "Metabolism of exogenous N-acetylglucosamine in extracts of rat kidney, liver and hepatoma.", "content": "1. The metabolism of exogenous N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) in rat kidney extracts was greatly stimulated by fructose 1,6-diphosphate (Fru-1,6-P2) and to a lesser extent by phosphoenolpyruvate. They served as a generator of ATP. Under these conditions, the majority of metabolized GlcNAc was recovered in the form of glycolytic intermediates. 2. The metabolism of exogenous GlcNAc in rat liver extracts was stimulated by phosphoenolpyruvate but not by Fru-1,6P2. With phosphoenolpyruvate present, most of the metabolized GlcNAc was recovered as sialic acid. 3. The metabolism of exogenous GlcNAc in rat hepatoma (AH-130) extracts was stimulated by Fru-1,6-P2 and to a lesser extent by phosphoenolpyruvate. Even with phosphoenolpyruvate present, the synthesis of sialic acid was extremely small. In these respects, hepatoma extracts resemble kidney extracts rather than those of liver.", "contents": "Metabolism of exogenous N-acetylglucosamine in extracts of rat kidney, liver and hepatoma. 1. The metabolism of exogenous N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) in rat kidney extracts was greatly stimulated by fructose 1,6-diphosphate (Fru-1,6-P2) and to a lesser extent by phosphoenolpyruvate. They served as a generator of ATP. Under these conditions, the majority of metabolized GlcNAc was recovered in the form of glycolytic intermediates. 2. The metabolism of exogenous GlcNAc in rat liver extracts was stimulated by phosphoenolpyruvate but not by Fru-1,6P2. With phosphoenolpyruvate present, most of the metabolized GlcNAc was recovered as sialic acid. 3. The metabolism of exogenous GlcNAc in rat hepatoma (AH-130) extracts was stimulated by Fru-1,6-P2 and to a lesser extent by phosphoenolpyruvate. Even with phosphoenolpyruvate present, the synthesis of sialic acid was extremely small. In these respects, hepatoma extracts resemble kidney extracts rather than those of liver.", "PMID": 435512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2795", "title": "Metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphono[3-14C]propionic acid in cell-free preparations of rat liver.", "content": "Incubation of 2-amino-3-phosphono[3-14C]propionic acid with cell-free preparations of rat liver yielded labelled 3-phosphonopyruvic acid, 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde, 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde. No radioactivity was found in phosphoenolpyruvate, pyruvic acid, alanine, and phosphonoacetic acid. When added to the cell-free preparations, 3-phosphonopyruvic acid trapped the radioactivity, resulting in decrease of incorporation of the radioactivity into 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde, 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde. Incorporation of the radioactivity into 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde was also decreased by 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde. Thus it appears that the main metabolic pathway of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid is deamination to produce 3-phosphonopyruvic acid which is, in turn, converted to 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde by decarboxylation, followed by both dephosphonylation and amination of the aldehyde to give acetaldehyde and 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid, respectively.", "contents": "Metabolism of 2-amino-3-phosphono[3-14C]propionic acid in cell-free preparations of rat liver. Incubation of 2-amino-3-phosphono[3-14C]propionic acid with cell-free preparations of rat liver yielded labelled 3-phosphonopyruvic acid, 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde, 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde. No radioactivity was found in phosphoenolpyruvate, pyruvic acid, alanine, and phosphonoacetic acid. When added to the cell-free preparations, 3-phosphonopyruvic acid trapped the radioactivity, resulting in decrease of incorporation of the radioactivity into 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde, 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde. Incorporation of the radioactivity into 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid and acetaldehyde was also decreased by 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde. Thus it appears that the main metabolic pathway of 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid is deamination to produce 3-phosphonopyruvic acid which is, in turn, converted to 2-phosphonoacetaldehyde by decarboxylation, followed by both dephosphonylation and amination of the aldehyde to give acetaldehyde and 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid, respectively.", "PMID": 435513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2796", "title": "Channelling of exogenous phenylalanine to the sites of storage and the sites of alkaloid and protein biosynthesis in Penicillium cyclopium.", "content": "Externally applied L-phenylalanine rapidly equilibrates with the cytosolic pool(s) in hyphae of emerged cultures of Penicillium cyclopium. If not incorporated into protein it is accumulated in the so called expandable pool, which is presumably localized in the vacuolar compartment. At high concentrations of exogenous L-phenylalanine practically all of the amino acid needed for protein synthesis comes from the extracellular source, contrary to alkaloid synthesis which under all conditions recruits more than 90% of the required L-phenylalanine from intracellular sources. Two pathways of alkaloid labelling can be distinguished, by which externally applied L-phenylalanine reaches the sites of alkaloid synthesis: (1) a direct way from cytosolic pool (primary labelling) and (2) an indirect way via the expandable pool (secondary labelling).", "contents": "Channelling of exogenous phenylalanine to the sites of storage and the sites of alkaloid and protein biosynthesis in Penicillium cyclopium. Externally applied L-phenylalanine rapidly equilibrates with the cytosolic pool(s) in hyphae of emerged cultures of Penicillium cyclopium. If not incorporated into protein it is accumulated in the so called expandable pool, which is presumably localized in the vacuolar compartment. At high concentrations of exogenous L-phenylalanine practically all of the amino acid needed for protein synthesis comes from the extracellular source, contrary to alkaloid synthesis which under all conditions recruits more than 90% of the required L-phenylalanine from intracellular sources. Two pathways of alkaloid labelling can be distinguished, by which externally applied L-phenylalanine reaches the sites of alkaloid synthesis: (1) a direct way from cytosolic pool (primary labelling) and (2) an indirect way via the expandable pool (secondary labelling).", "PMID": 435514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2797", "title": "Multi-origins of milk serum albumin in the lactating goat.", "content": "L-[U-14C]Leucine was infused into the right-hand mammary glands of lactating goats. Milk from both glands of the animals was sampled at intervals for 36 h. After 3 h the specific activity of milk serum albumin from the infused glands was more than six times that from the non-infused glands. The specific activity of milk serum albumin was considerably lower than that of alpha-lactalbumin or beta-lactoglobulin which are exclusively synthesized by mammary secretory cells. Following the intravenous injection of 125I-labeled serum albumin, maximum specific activity of this protein appeared in milk in 12 h. The specific activity of serum albumin in milk attained no more than 45% of the specific activity of the serum albumin in blood. It is concluded that milk serum albumin has multiple origins and that a portion of it, at least (10-20%), is made in the mammary gland.", "contents": "Multi-origins of milk serum albumin in the lactating goat. L-[U-14C]Leucine was infused into the right-hand mammary glands of lactating goats. Milk from both glands of the animals was sampled at intervals for 36 h. After 3 h the specific activity of milk serum albumin from the infused glands was more than six times that from the non-infused glands. The specific activity of milk serum albumin was considerably lower than that of alpha-lactalbumin or beta-lactoglobulin which are exclusively synthesized by mammary secretory cells. Following the intravenous injection of 125I-labeled serum albumin, maximum specific activity of this protein appeared in milk in 12 h. The specific activity of serum albumin in milk attained no more than 45% of the specific activity of the serum albumin in blood. It is concluded that milk serum albumin has multiple origins and that a portion of it, at least (10-20%), is made in the mammary gland.", "PMID": 435515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2798", "title": "Photodesmosine, an isomer of desmosine obtained by photolysis of this amino acid in ultraviolet light.", "content": "Desmosine and isodesmosine are two isomers representing the main crosslinks of elastin. We describe a new isomer, photodesmosine, which is produced by the photolysis of desmosine at 254 nm. The mechanism of this photolysis is described and is shown to consist of two competing paths. After opening of the pyridinium ring to give a tetrasubstituted aminoketone, this compound can either be hydrolysed to give lysine and a trisubstituted analogue of glutaconic aldehyde or undergo a recyclisation and rearomatisation to give a pyridinium compound substituted in positions 1, 2, 3 and 4. An understanding of this mechanism is important in order to use photolysis as a specific method to break elastin cross-links. Although only desmosine and isodesmosine have been reported in purified elastin, the chromatographic properties of photodesmosine suggests that if other natural isomers exist in this protein they could be eluted from an ion-exchange resin at much earlier times than those observed in the case of the two already described cross-links.", "contents": "Photodesmosine, an isomer of desmosine obtained by photolysis of this amino acid in ultraviolet light. Desmosine and isodesmosine are two isomers representing the main crosslinks of elastin. We describe a new isomer, photodesmosine, which is produced by the photolysis of desmosine at 254 nm. The mechanism of this photolysis is described and is shown to consist of two competing paths. After opening of the pyridinium ring to give a tetrasubstituted aminoketone, this compound can either be hydrolysed to give lysine and a trisubstituted analogue of glutaconic aldehyde or undergo a recyclisation and rearomatisation to give a pyridinium compound substituted in positions 1, 2, 3 and 4. An understanding of this mechanism is important in order to use photolysis as a specific method to break elastin cross-links. Although only desmosine and isodesmosine have been reported in purified elastin, the chromatographic properties of photodesmosine suggests that if other natural isomers exist in this protein they could be eluted from an ion-exchange resin at much earlier times than those observed in the case of the two already described cross-links.", "PMID": 435516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2799", "title": "Spectral characterization of the neuronal pigments of Aplysia juliana.", "content": "Spectral analysis at liquid N2 temperature of the circumesophageal ganglia of Aplysia juliana showed that carotenoids and a hemoglobin-like pigment are contained in concentrations of approx. 25 and 3 micronM, respectively, in the whole ganglia. Microspectrophotometrical measurements of Aplysia neurons indicated that the carotenoids reside on lipochondria in a concentration of approx. 38 mM. In addition to lipochondria, two types of pigmented particulate having absorption maxima at about 512 and 525 nm, respectively, were found in the neurons. The neuronal carotenoids consist of violaxanthin, beta-carotene and one minor component; among them the first occupies approx. 77% of total carotenoids. Two principal absorption maxima of the carotenoids, when existing in both ganglial homogenates and Triton X-100 extracts, show a red shift of 10 nm compared with those of free pigments in hexan. The red shift may be interpreted as due to the solvation of the carotenoids by surrounding lipids.", "contents": "Spectral characterization of the neuronal pigments of Aplysia juliana. Spectral analysis at liquid N2 temperature of the circumesophageal ganglia of Aplysia juliana showed that carotenoids and a hemoglobin-like pigment are contained in concentrations of approx. 25 and 3 micronM, respectively, in the whole ganglia. Microspectrophotometrical measurements of Aplysia neurons indicated that the carotenoids reside on lipochondria in a concentration of approx. 38 mM. In addition to lipochondria, two types of pigmented particulate having absorption maxima at about 512 and 525 nm, respectively, were found in the neurons. The neuronal carotenoids consist of violaxanthin, beta-carotene and one minor component; among them the first occupies approx. 77% of total carotenoids. Two principal absorption maxima of the carotenoids, when existing in both ganglial homogenates and Triton X-100 extracts, show a red shift of 10 nm compared with those of free pigments in hexan. The red shift may be interpreted as due to the solvation of the carotenoids by surrounding lipids.", "PMID": 435517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2800", "title": "An oligosaccharide component in proteoglycans of articular cartilage.", "content": "Two types of sialic acid-containing component are released from articular cartilage proteoglycan monomer (D1) treated with 0.05 M NaOH containing 1 M NaBH4. The smaller component, which has not been described before, contains galactosamine, glucosamine, galactose and sialic acid (Molar ratio 1:1:1:2). It is eluted from ECTEOLA-cellulose with low molarity (0.4 M) sodium formate and has Kav of 0.70 on Bio-gel P30. Its presence on the proteoglycan monomer was demonstrated at all stages of foetal and adult life.", "contents": "An oligosaccharide component in proteoglycans of articular cartilage. Two types of sialic acid-containing component are released from articular cartilage proteoglycan monomer (D1) treated with 0.05 M NaOH containing 1 M NaBH4. The smaller component, which has not been described before, contains galactosamine, glucosamine, galactose and sialic acid (Molar ratio 1:1:1:2). It is eluted from ECTEOLA-cellulose with low molarity (0.4 M) sodium formate and has Kav of 0.70 on Bio-gel P30. Its presence on the proteoglycan monomer was demonstrated at all stages of foetal and adult life.", "PMID": 435518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2801", "title": "Increase in liver acid lipase of thyroidectomized rats by thyroid hormones and its inhibition by actinomycin D.", "content": "Acid lipase activity in the livers of thyroidectomized rats is increased by administration of L-thyroxine. The response is dose-dependent and can be demonstrated within 12 h after treatment. L-Triiodothyronine also evokes a rapid increase in acid lipase activity, and this increase can be inhibited by coadministration of actinomycin D.", "contents": "Increase in liver acid lipase of thyroidectomized rats by thyroid hormones and its inhibition by actinomycin D. Acid lipase activity in the livers of thyroidectomized rats is increased by administration of L-thyroxine. The response is dose-dependent and can be demonstrated within 12 h after treatment. L-Triiodothyronine also evokes a rapid increase in acid lipase activity, and this increase can be inhibited by coadministration of actinomycin D.", "PMID": 435519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2802", "title": "[Localization of adenine components in chick myofibrils by the ferritin antibody technic].", "content": "The immunochemical method has been proposed to indicate the adenin compounds in isolated myofibrils of striated muscle. Adenosine--containing antigen was prepared by coupling adenosine with bovine serum albumin (adenosine--BSA). Antibodies against adenosine--BSA were labelled by ferritin. The sites of the antigen antibody reaction were marked by localization of ferritin molecules. Ferritin antibodies were found to concentrate in the following sarcomere sites: M and Z bands, N-lines and terminal cisternae of sarcoplasmic reticulum near the Z-bands.", "contents": "[Localization of adenine components in chick myofibrils by the ferritin antibody technic]. The immunochemical method has been proposed to indicate the adenin compounds in isolated myofibrils of striated muscle. Adenosine--containing antigen was prepared by coupling adenosine with bovine serum albumin (adenosine--BSA). Antibodies against adenosine--BSA were labelled by ferritin. The sites of the antigen antibody reaction were marked by localization of ferritin molecules. Ferritin antibodies were found to concentrate in the following sarcomere sites: M and Z bands, N-lines and terminal cisternae of sarcoplasmic reticulum near the Z-bands.", "PMID": 435520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2803", "title": "[Measurement of the magnetic relaxation of water molecules in biological systems by the impulse NMR technic with calculation of their volume].", "content": "Impulse sequences are presented for selective by biological system volume measurements of the times of spin--spin, spin--lattice relaxation of water molecules by means of NMR spin echo. Selectivity of the programs is based on the fact that in the presence of magnetic field impulse gradient diffusion quenching of the echo differs for water molecules limited or unlimited in their diffusion displacement by some barriers (membranes) and it also differs for molecules limited in compartments of different size. Selective measurement of the times of spin--spin relaxation (T2) of water in intracellular structures of the yeast cells gave the value 24.4 msec, which is 1.3 times lower than the specimen volume measured by standard method.", "contents": "[Measurement of the magnetic relaxation of water molecules in biological systems by the impulse NMR technic with calculation of their volume]. Impulse sequences are presented for selective by biological system volume measurements of the times of spin--spin, spin--lattice relaxation of water molecules by means of NMR spin echo. Selectivity of the programs is based on the fact that in the presence of magnetic field impulse gradient diffusion quenching of the echo differs for water molecules limited or unlimited in their diffusion displacement by some barriers (membranes) and it also differs for molecules limited in compartments of different size. Selective measurement of the times of spin--spin relaxation (T2) of water in intracellular structures of the yeast cells gave the value 24.4 msec, which is 1.3 times lower than the specimen volume measured by standard method.", "PMID": 435522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2804", "title": "[Impulse propagation in an active unidimensional medium with a trigger-type region of nonuniformity].", "content": "Effects are considered which appear during impulse propagation along the active line, some elements of which are converted from the expecting regime to the trigger one. At the set length of the non-uniformity the critical value of the parameter exists, up to which the propagating impulse \"takes no notice\" of the trigger region. When the parameter values are higher than the critical value, the trigger region starts to generate the propagating impulses. In pathological working regimes of biological excitable media such non-uniformity may induce fibrillation.", "contents": "[Impulse propagation in an active unidimensional medium with a trigger-type region of nonuniformity]. Effects are considered which appear during impulse propagation along the active line, some elements of which are converted from the expecting regime to the trigger one. At the set length of the non-uniformity the critical value of the parameter exists, up to which the propagating impulse \"takes no notice\" of the trigger region. When the parameter values are higher than the critical value, the trigger region starts to generate the propagating impulses. In pathological working regimes of biological excitable media such non-uniformity may induce fibrillation.", "PMID": 435524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2805", "title": "[Theory of kinetic schemes. Random walks].", "content": "During special selection of self--functions of states methods of the kinetic scheme theory can be extrapolated on some probability processes. General solutions can be obtained with these methods, for the problem of casual wanderings in manymeric lattices for example. The general result of the work--distribution of average lifetime of a population in states is in the general case determined only by the topology of the scheme and is independent of the form of self-functions of states.", "contents": "[Theory of kinetic schemes. Random walks]. During special selection of self--functions of states methods of the kinetic scheme theory can be extrapolated on some probability processes. General solutions can be obtained with these methods, for the problem of casual wanderings in manymeric lattices for example. The general result of the work--distribution of average lifetime of a population in states is in the general case determined only by the topology of the scheme and is independent of the form of self-functions of states.", "PMID": 435526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2806", "title": "[Mathematical model of a two level ecosystem].", "content": "The model which consists of two trophical levels is developed. The species here are connected by \"pray--predator\" relationship. If one supposes rather narrow specialisation of predator and introduces the \"ecological space\", the model which was preliminary recorded as a system of common differential equations of great dimension can be modified to the system of two non-linear equations in partial derivatives. Linear approach was investigated analytically, the previous nonlinear problem was calculated on a computer. The most interesting result here is an appearance of space--time oscillations in the system, which can be regarded as the first stages of ecological succession.", "contents": "[Mathematical model of a two level ecosystem]. The model which consists of two trophical levels is developed. The species here are connected by \"pray--predator\" relationship. If one supposes rather narrow specialisation of predator and introduces the \"ecological space\", the model which was preliminary recorded as a system of common differential equations of great dimension can be modified to the system of two non-linear equations in partial derivatives. Linear approach was investigated analytically, the previous nonlinear problem was calculated on a computer. The most interesting result here is an appearance of space--time oscillations in the system, which can be regarded as the first stages of ecological succession.", "PMID": 435527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2807", "title": "[Stability of spatially-nonhomogeneous stationary conditions of a diffuse system. Positional differentiation].", "content": "The results of general investigation presented at the previous paper [9] are applied to interpreting the spatial ordering upon positional differentiation at the development of multicellular organisms. The very form of local dynamics is not specified for the lack of sufficient information about the mechanisms of biosynthesis regulation in multicellular organisms. Instead of the dynamics of intercellular processes is supposed to provide the existence of two stable stationary states. These stable regimes are interpreted as the different specialisations of individual cell (differentiations). There are accepted the boundary conditions in the form of non-zero morphogen fluxes. The requirement of stability of the exfoliated structure at the multicellular ensemble connects some physical chemical parameters of the system (the permeability of the boundaries, characteristic time of intercellular dynamics, the diffusion coefficient of morphogen and some others) in the form of inequality. Within the framework of dynamical model the ability of morphogenetic system to the regulative development is discussed.", "contents": "[Stability of spatially-nonhomogeneous stationary conditions of a diffuse system. Positional differentiation]. The results of general investigation presented at the previous paper [9] are applied to interpreting the spatial ordering upon positional differentiation at the development of multicellular organisms. The very form of local dynamics is not specified for the lack of sufficient information about the mechanisms of biosynthesis regulation in multicellular organisms. Instead of the dynamics of intercellular processes is supposed to provide the existence of two stable stationary states. These stable regimes are interpreted as the different specialisations of individual cell (differentiations). There are accepted the boundary conditions in the form of non-zero morphogen fluxes. The requirement of stability of the exfoliated structure at the multicellular ensemble connects some physical chemical parameters of the system (the permeability of the boundaries, characteristic time of intercellular dynamics, the diffusion coefficient of morphogen and some others) in the form of inequality. Within the framework of dynamical model the ability of morphogenetic system to the regulative development is discussed.", "PMID": 435523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2808", "title": "[Sublicons containing amino acids and nucleotides].", "content": "Sublicons have been obtained. Sublicons are threadlike structures appearing during sublimation of frozen solutions of small concentrations, containing racemate mixture of amino acids and nucleotides. It is suggested that close location of chains and their zonal distribution by the section of helix spire forming sublicon wall, should provide the formation of stereohomogenous and complementary successions of biomonomers of different clases.", "contents": "[Sublicons containing amino acids and nucleotides]. Sublicons have been obtained. Sublicons are threadlike structures appearing during sublimation of frozen solutions of small concentrations, containing racemate mixture of amino acids and nucleotides. It is suggested that close location of chains and their zonal distribution by the section of helix spire forming sublicon wall, should provide the formation of stereohomogenous and complementary successions of biomonomers of different clases.", "PMID": 435529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2809", "title": "[Fiber interaction during impulse propagation in smooth muscle and myocardial tissues. Electrotonic interaction].", "content": "Electrotonic potential appearing in a single muscle fibre during excitation spread was calculated in the mathematical model of closely packed parallel fibres. Electrotonic depolarization values for heart and smooth muscle were shown to be 10--20 mV, that is comparable to the excitation threshold value. Tissue parameter values were estimated where the coupling coefficient was maximal. The parameter values proved to be similar to those measured in heart and smooth muscles. The data obtained indicate that the electrotonic interaction of muscle fibres should play a significant role in excitation conduction.", "contents": "[Fiber interaction during impulse propagation in smooth muscle and myocardial tissues. Electrotonic interaction]. Electrotonic potential appearing in a single muscle fibre during excitation spread was calculated in the mathematical model of closely packed parallel fibres. Electrotonic depolarization values for heart and smooth muscle were shown to be 10--20 mV, that is comparable to the excitation threshold value. Tissue parameter values were estimated where the coupling coefficient was maximal. The parameter values proved to be similar to those measured in heart and smooth muscles. The data obtained indicate that the electrotonic interaction of muscle fibres should play a significant role in excitation conduction.", "PMID": 435525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2810", "title": "[Formation of fluorescent products in mitochondria exposed to UV-light].", "content": "UV-irradiation of mitochondrial membranes causes formation and accumulation of fluorescing products in the course of incubation, like it takes place during the initiation of peroxide oxidation by the iron--ascorbate system. The rate of the change of mitochondria fluorescence and the level of TBA-products in them do not correlate, which points to the difference in the formation mechanisms of these products in the course of incubation. However, a correlation is observed between the initial fluorescence intensity and the number of TBA-active products in mitochondria, which increases with the increase of the time of UV-irradiation.", "contents": "[Formation of fluorescent products in mitochondria exposed to UV-light]. UV-irradiation of mitochondrial membranes causes formation and accumulation of fluorescing products in the course of incubation, like it takes place during the initiation of peroxide oxidation by the iron--ascorbate system. The rate of the change of mitochondria fluorescence and the level of TBA-products in them do not correlate, which points to the difference in the formation mechanisms of these products in the course of incubation. However, a correlation is observed between the initial fluorescence intensity and the number of TBA-active products in mitochondria, which increases with the increase of the time of UV-irradiation.", "PMID": 435531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2811", "title": "[Calculation of the quaternary structure of the alpha--beta-dimer of hemoglobin].", "content": "The calculation of the structure of haemoglobin alpha--beta-dimer is performed. Calculation is divided into two steps: at the first step highly hydrophobic regions of the subunit surfaces which can provide the stability of the complex are found; at the second--the fitting of this surface regions is carried out. The calculation has resulted in finding three most stable structures. R. m. s. deviation of the positions of C beta-atoms of one of these structures from those in the native one is 3.5 A.", "contents": "[Calculation of the quaternary structure of the alpha--beta-dimer of hemoglobin]. The calculation of the structure of haemoglobin alpha--beta-dimer is performed. Calculation is divided into two steps: at the first step highly hydrophobic regions of the subunit surfaces which can provide the stability of the complex are found; at the second--the fitting of this surface regions is carried out. The calculation has resulted in finding three most stable structures. R. m. s. deviation of the positions of C beta-atoms of one of these structures from those in the native one is 3.5 A.", "PMID": 435530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2812", "title": "[Temperature characteristics of an object during the process of cryofixation by the \"freeze--etching\" technic].", "content": "When using low temperature methods for preparing water-containing objects in electron microscopy temperature characteristics of different objects was studied during freezing and defreezing depending on different preparation conditions. Temperature characteristics of the object was estimated by means of a storage oscillograph with a thermocouple connected through a transistor amplifier. The thermograms permit one to select preparation conditions of the object eliminating artefacts.", "contents": "[Temperature characteristics of an object during the process of cryofixation by the \"freeze--etching\" technic]. When using low temperature methods for preparing water-containing objects in electron microscopy temperature characteristics of different objects was studied during freezing and defreezing depending on different preparation conditions. Temperature characteristics of the object was estimated by means of a storage oscillograph with a thermocouple connected through a transistor amplifier. The thermograms permit one to select preparation conditions of the object eliminating artefacts.", "PMID": 435533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2813", "title": "[Effect of adaptation conditions on slow induction of fluorescence in the leaves of higher plants].", "content": "Fluorescence induction was studied in the leaves of higher plants in vivo under normal physiological conditions according to the time of dark adaptation and preillumination conditions under the effect of red light (lambda = 650 nm) and light which stimulated the photosystem I (lambda = 700 nm). At pre-illumination of the PS I the dark adaptation curve has an extremal character which points to a process developing for 6--8 min in the darkness. Such processes may proceed in the system of biochemical reactions after PS I.", "contents": "[Effect of adaptation conditions on slow induction of fluorescence in the leaves of higher plants]. Fluorescence induction was studied in the leaves of higher plants in vivo under normal physiological conditions according to the time of dark adaptation and preillumination conditions under the effect of red light (lambda = 650 nm) and light which stimulated the photosystem I (lambda = 700 nm). At pre-illumination of the PS I the dark adaptation curve has an extremal character which points to a process developing for 6--8 min in the darkness. Such processes may proceed in the system of biochemical reactions after PS I.", "PMID": 435535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2814", "title": "[Reaction of fluorescent labeled analogs of the antibiotic distamycin A with synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides].", "content": "Interaction of DNA with the analogs of the antibiotic distamycin A having different numbers of pyrrolcarboxamide units and labeled with dansyl was studied. The intensity of fluorescence of these analogs increases markedly when they bind to DNA. It is shown that the introduction of dansyl into the analog molecules does not change their binding characteristics. The binding isotherms of the analogs to synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides were obtained. Analysis of the experimental data leads to the following conclusions: 1. The free energy of binding of the analogs to poly(dA1 . poly(dT) depends linearly on the number of pyrrolcarboxamide units in the molecule of the analog whereas attachment of each pyrrolcarboxamide unit produces change of 2 kcal/mole in the free energy. 2. Attachment of a pyrrolcarboxamide unit to GC pair results in the free energy change of 0.95 kcal/mole. 3. Adenine and thymine are close but not equivalent by the energy of binding to the analogs of distamycin A. 4. The binding of analogs to poly(dA . poly(dT) is a cooperative process, presumably dependent on the conformational changes induced by the binding of analogs to DNA.", "contents": "[Reaction of fluorescent labeled analogs of the antibiotic distamycin A with synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides]. Interaction of DNA with the analogs of the antibiotic distamycin A having different numbers of pyrrolcarboxamide units and labeled with dansyl was studied. The intensity of fluorescence of these analogs increases markedly when they bind to DNA. It is shown that the introduction of dansyl into the analog molecules does not change their binding characteristics. The binding isotherms of the analogs to synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides were obtained. Analysis of the experimental data leads to the following conclusions: 1. The free energy of binding of the analogs to poly(dA1 . poly(dT) depends linearly on the number of pyrrolcarboxamide units in the molecule of the analog whereas attachment of each pyrrolcarboxamide unit produces change of 2 kcal/mole in the free energy. 2. Attachment of a pyrrolcarboxamide unit to GC pair results in the free energy change of 0.95 kcal/mole. 3. Adenine and thymine are close but not equivalent by the energy of binding to the analogs of distamycin A. 4. The binding of analogs to poly(dA . poly(dT) is a cooperative process, presumably dependent on the conformational changes induced by the binding of analogs to DNA.", "PMID": 435536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2815", "title": "[Several possible conformational states of a homogeneous elastic polymeric chain].", "content": "A homogenous elastic macromolecule, the so-called persistent model is considered. Possible initiation of dense globular state in it with nematic orderliness of the chain elements is analysed. The entropy of such a system in an arbitrary state is calculated. It is shown that a relatively short rigid chain forms a thoroidal structure. With the chain elongation thor is increased, without changing its proportions. When the parameters are changed the thoroidal structure may turn into the conventional one-linkage one. Possible application of this model for solving the problem of trimeric package of nuclei acids is discussed in a few words.", "contents": "[Several possible conformational states of a homogeneous elastic polymeric chain]. A homogenous elastic macromolecule, the so-called persistent model is considered. Possible initiation of dense globular state in it with nematic orderliness of the chain elements is analysed. The entropy of such a system in an arbitrary state is calculated. It is shown that a relatively short rigid chain forms a thoroidal structure. With the chain elongation thor is increased, without changing its proportions. When the parameters are changed the thoroidal structure may turn into the conventional one-linkage one. Possible application of this model for solving the problem of trimeric package of nuclei acids is discussed in a few words.", "PMID": 435540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2816", "title": "[Stages in the thermal denaturation of spiral fragments of myosin].", "content": "Scanning microcalorimetry is used to study heat denaturation of myosin \"tail\" helical fragments, light meromyosin and the LF-3 subfragment. It has been shown that all the data obtained were well explained by the existence of a set of quasi-independent cooperative regions. Probable location sites of separate cooperative regions in the helical part of the molecule are indicated. The obtained places of cooperative \"breaks\" are in a good agreement with the places of predominant cleavage of the myosin tail by proteolytic enzymes at its limited hydrolysis. The total denaturation enthalpy for each of the helical fragments per hydrogen bond at 100 degrees C is slightly less (5.4 +/- 0.8 kJ . mol-1) than the corresponding value for globular proteins.", "contents": "[Stages in the thermal denaturation of spiral fragments of myosin]. Scanning microcalorimetry is used to study heat denaturation of myosin \"tail\" helical fragments, light meromyosin and the LF-3 subfragment. It has been shown that all the data obtained were well explained by the existence of a set of quasi-independent cooperative regions. Probable location sites of separate cooperative regions in the helical part of the molecule are indicated. The obtained places of cooperative \"breaks\" are in a good agreement with the places of predominant cleavage of the myosin tail by proteolytic enzymes at its limited hydrolysis. The total denaturation enthalpy for each of the helical fragments per hydrogen bond at 100 degrees C is slightly less (5.4 +/- 0.8 kJ . mol-1) than the corresponding value for globular proteins.", "PMID": 435542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2817", "title": "[Study of vesicular lipid membranes by the ultrasound method].", "content": "The elastic properties of vesicular lipid membranes using high precision ultrasound velocity measurements in egg lecithin bilayer liposomes suspensions were studied. The temperature and K2SO4 concentration dependence of the hydrophobic part of the membrane elastic properties were obtained. The ionic strength dependence is shown to be linear and to change its sign at 27.5 degrees C. The value of molar volume of egg lecithin molecule hydrophobic part as calculated from acoustical and volumetric data is equal to (665 +/- +/- 63) cm3/mol and its adiabatic compressibility is equal to (58.7 +/- 5.9) . 10(-12) cm2/dyne.", "contents": "[Study of vesicular lipid membranes by the ultrasound method]. The elastic properties of vesicular lipid membranes using high precision ultrasound velocity measurements in egg lecithin bilayer liposomes suspensions were studied. The temperature and K2SO4 concentration dependence of the hydrophobic part of the membrane elastic properties were obtained. The ionic strength dependence is shown to be linear and to change its sign at 27.5 degrees C. The value of molar volume of egg lecithin molecule hydrophobic part as calculated from acoustical and volumetric data is equal to (665 +/- +/- 63) cm3/mol and its adiabatic compressibility is equal to (58.7 +/- 5.9) . 10(-12) cm2/dyne.", "PMID": 435544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2818", "title": "[Chlorophyll-photosensitized reduction of methyl red in detergent solutions].", "content": "Chlorophyll-photosensitized reduction of methylene red with ascorbic acid was studied in micellar solutions of triton X-100. The maximum value of photosensitization was observed in the region 0.1% of triton, approximating the critical concentration of micelleformation. The rate of photoreduction of methylene red was strongly influenced by the medium pH, the optimal pH value being 4.8. The specific activity of chlorophyll in the course of photosensitization was shown to depend on its concentration. Specific activity of the monomeric form of chlorophylls a and b (5.3 and 3.2 s-1 respectively) was estimated.", "contents": "[Chlorophyll-photosensitized reduction of methyl red in detergent solutions]. Chlorophyll-photosensitized reduction of methylene red with ascorbic acid was studied in micellar solutions of triton X-100. The maximum value of photosensitization was observed in the region 0.1% of triton, approximating the critical concentration of micelleformation. The rate of photoreduction of methylene red was strongly influenced by the medium pH, the optimal pH value being 4.8. The specific activity of chlorophyll in the course of photosensitization was shown to depend on its concentration. Specific activity of the monomeric form of chlorophylls a and b (5.3 and 3.2 s-1 respectively) was estimated.", "PMID": 435543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2819", "title": "[Effect of morphine and its derivatives on the electric conductivity of artificial phospholipid membranes].", "content": "It has been shown that morphine, codeine, dionine and nalorphine do not change significantly the electroconductivity of bilayer lipid membranes (BLM) in the presence of potassium ions in the medium. Changes in BLM phospholipid composition, KC1 and opiate concentration in the medium, as well as the ratio between ionized and unionized forms of the narcotics do not affect the conductivity of lipid bilayers. A conclusion is made that morphine derivatives do not produce immediate effect on membrane potassium permeability.", "contents": "[Effect of morphine and its derivatives on the electric conductivity of artificial phospholipid membranes]. It has been shown that morphine, codeine, dionine and nalorphine do not change significantly the electroconductivity of bilayer lipid membranes (BLM) in the presence of potassium ions in the medium. Changes in BLM phospholipid composition, KC1 and opiate concentration in the medium, as well as the ratio between ionized and unionized forms of the narcotics do not affect the conductivity of lipid bilayers. A conclusion is made that morphine derivatives do not produce immediate effect on membrane potassium permeability.", "PMID": 435545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2820", "title": "[Interaction between ricin hemagglutinin and its ligands, galactose and lactose. Microcalorimetry and equilibrium dialysis].", "content": "The interaction of Ricinus communis hemagglutinin with galactose and lactose has been studied by means of microcalorimetry, equilibrium dialysis and analytical ultracentrifugation. A first class of beta-galactoside-binding sites involves two similar and independent sites of which affinity constants are 2600 M-1 for galactose and 26700 M-1 for lactose at 25 degrees C. The binding of one galactose or one lactose molecule leads to enthalpy changes of--12.3 Kcal and--11 Kcal, respectively. Considering the negative entropy changes of the association, and as for ricin, the binding of galactosides with hemagglutinin is driven by favorable enthalpic contributions. In presence of high lactose concentrations, a second endothermic step of the calorimetric titration curve was observed. This result and the biphasic nature of Scatchard plots of equilibrium dialysis suggest the existence of a second class of binding sites on the lectin molecule. As for ricin, the interaction between these secondary sites and lactose would be entropically driven.", "contents": "[Interaction between ricin hemagglutinin and its ligands, galactose and lactose. Microcalorimetry and equilibrium dialysis]. The interaction of Ricinus communis hemagglutinin with galactose and lactose has been studied by means of microcalorimetry, equilibrium dialysis and analytical ultracentrifugation. A first class of beta-galactoside-binding sites involves two similar and independent sites of which affinity constants are 2600 M-1 for galactose and 26700 M-1 for lactose at 25 degrees C. The binding of one galactose or one lactose molecule leads to enthalpy changes of--12.3 Kcal and--11 Kcal, respectively. Considering the negative entropy changes of the association, and as for ricin, the binding of galactosides with hemagglutinin is driven by favorable enthalpic contributions. In presence of high lactose concentrations, a second endothermic step of the calorimetric titration curve was observed. This result and the biphasic nature of Scatchard plots of equilibrium dialysis suggest the existence of a second class of binding sites on the lectin molecule. As for ricin, the interaction between these secondary sites and lactose would be entropically driven.", "PMID": 435552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2821", "title": "[Energy migration processes and electron transport during photosynthesis in higher plants: the reinforcement effect and action spectrum].", "content": "Enhancement effect on photosynthesis were calculated on the basis of the set differential equations describing the processes of energy migration and electron transport. The numerical integration of these equations was made for different kinetics parameters of the electron transport chain and under various intensity and spectral composition of actinic light. This model describes the action spectra for oxygen evolution and photooxidation of P700 in higher plants.", "contents": "[Energy migration processes and electron transport during photosynthesis in higher plants: the reinforcement effect and action spectrum]. Enhancement effect on photosynthesis were calculated on the basis of the set differential equations describing the processes of energy migration and electron transport. The numerical integration of these equations was made for different kinetics parameters of the electron transport chain and under various intensity and spectral composition of actinic light. This model describes the action spectra for oxygen evolution and photooxidation of P700 in higher plants.", "PMID": 435547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2822", "title": "[Relationship between the electron structure of phosphates and the problem of ATP synthesis and utilization].", "content": "The nature of macroergic bonds and some problems of ATP formation and utilization are considered in terms of electron structure of phosphates. The main acting compound in the ATP synthesis and in the reactions of transfer and utilization of the energy of macroergic bonds as well, is ATP terminal phosphate or phosphoryl group which in the free state is a monomeric methaphosphate-ion. High reactive ability of monomeric methaphosphate-ion, its affinity of lown electrom pairs is conditioned by the presence of a vacant sp3-orbitals in phosphor atom of methaphosphate-ion. Therefore in the reactions with ATP participation the phosphoryl group plays the role of electrophilic agent. Formation of intermediate methaphosphate-ion preceding the synthesis of ATP from ADP during substrate phosphorylation results from the breakage of O--P bond, during which both electrons which form the bond stay in the oxygen atom. Another possible pathway of methaphosphate-ion formation is the ejaction of the electron from ortophosphate dianion with the help of suitable acceptor of the electrons, by light-stimulated pigment system of chloroplasts or chromatophores or singlet oxygen liberated during the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide with catalase. Due to the redistribution of electron density in the phosphate radical the latter turns into the monomeric methaphosphate-ion bound to ADP with the formation of ATP.", "contents": "[Relationship between the electron structure of phosphates and the problem of ATP synthesis and utilization]. The nature of macroergic bonds and some problems of ATP formation and utilization are considered in terms of electron structure of phosphates. The main acting compound in the ATP synthesis and in the reactions of transfer and utilization of the energy of macroergic bonds as well, is ATP terminal phosphate or phosphoryl group which in the free state is a monomeric methaphosphate-ion. High reactive ability of monomeric methaphosphate-ion, its affinity of lown electrom pairs is conditioned by the presence of a vacant sp3-orbitals in phosphor atom of methaphosphate-ion. Therefore in the reactions with ATP participation the phosphoryl group plays the role of electrophilic agent. Formation of intermediate methaphosphate-ion preceding the synthesis of ATP from ADP during substrate phosphorylation results from the breakage of O--P bond, during which both electrons which form the bond stay in the oxygen atom. Another possible pathway of methaphosphate-ion formation is the ejaction of the electron from ortophosphate dianion with the help of suitable acceptor of the electrons, by light-stimulated pigment system of chloroplasts or chromatophores or singlet oxygen liberated during the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide with catalase. Due to the redistribution of electron density in the phosphate radical the latter turns into the monomeric methaphosphate-ion bound to ADP with the formation of ATP.", "PMID": 435548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2823", "title": "Decarboxylation and carboxylation of pyruvate in the living mice.", "content": "Mice received intravenously [1- or 2-14C]acetate, [1-, 2- or 3-14C] or [2-14C]pyruvate and were killed 1, 3, 5 or 15 min later. The radioactivity of CO2 or HCO3- of liver or carcass as well as the radioactivity of blood glucose were measured. The ratio of the radioactivity found in these compounds after [3-14C] or [2-14C-A1pyruvate injection suggests that in the fed aminals: 1. the decarboxylation of the pyruvate was more rapid than its carboxylation, 2. most of the neosynthesized glucose was derived from pyruvate molecules which had undergone a decarboxylation followed by a condensation to citrate, 3. 1/4 to 1/3 of the pyruvate was carboxylated and 2/3 to 3/4 was decarboxylated in animals receiving a diet poor in fats.", "contents": "Decarboxylation and carboxylation of pyruvate in the living mice. Mice received intravenously [1- or 2-14C]acetate, [1-, 2- or 3-14C] or [2-14C]pyruvate and were killed 1, 3, 5 or 15 min later. The radioactivity of CO2 or HCO3- of liver or carcass as well as the radioactivity of blood glucose were measured. The ratio of the radioactivity found in these compounds after [3-14C] or [2-14C-A1pyruvate injection suggests that in the fed aminals: 1. the decarboxylation of the pyruvate was more rapid than its carboxylation, 2. most of the neosynthesized glucose was derived from pyruvate molecules which had undergone a decarboxylation followed by a condensation to citrate, 3. 1/4 to 1/3 of the pyruvate was carboxylated and 2/3 to 3/4 was decarboxylated in animals receiving a diet poor in fats.", "PMID": 435553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2824", "title": "[Stoichiometry of calcium transport by sarcoplasmic reticulum: utilization of p-nitrophenylphosphate as an energy donor].", "content": "We have studied, under different conditions and through the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenylphosphate, the stoechiometry of the active transport of calcium by sarcoplasmic reticulum. According to a minimal kinetic model, it is possible to explain the variation of the coupling factor n(t) during the calcium accumulation in absence of precipitating agent. Under the described experimental conditions, at the beginning of the experiment, the coupling factor's value is slightly above 2.", "contents": "[Stoichiometry of calcium transport by sarcoplasmic reticulum: utilization of p-nitrophenylphosphate as an energy donor]. We have studied, under different conditions and through the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenylphosphate, the stoechiometry of the active transport of calcium by sarcoplasmic reticulum. According to a minimal kinetic model, it is possible to explain the variation of the coupling factor n(t) during the calcium accumulation in absence of precipitating agent. Under the described experimental conditions, at the beginning of the experiment, the coupling factor's value is slightly above 2.", "PMID": 435554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2825", "title": "Interaction between the Ricinus sanguineus agglutinin and receptor sites isolated from normal human lymphocytes.", "content": "Solubilized surface proteins from normal human lymphocytes were obtained by mild trypsin digestion. The binding of membrane components to labelled Ricinus sanguineus agglutinin (molecular weight = 120,000 daltons) was studied by a gel filtration method. The bound and unbound lectin amounts were determined from the gel filtration patterns. The binding parameters were calculated from Scatchard plots. They were compared to the parameters obtained at the same temperature for the lectin-intact lymphocyte system. The respective values for the affinity constant, were 3.5 x 10(6) M-1 and 6 x 10(6) M-1. The calculation of the number of sites per cell in each system specifies the yield of the trypsin digestion.", "contents": "Interaction between the Ricinus sanguineus agglutinin and receptor sites isolated from normal human lymphocytes. Solubilized surface proteins from normal human lymphocytes were obtained by mild trypsin digestion. The binding of membrane components to labelled Ricinus sanguineus agglutinin (molecular weight = 120,000 daltons) was studied by a gel filtration method. The bound and unbound lectin amounts were determined from the gel filtration patterns. The binding parameters were calculated from Scatchard plots. They were compared to the parameters obtained at the same temperature for the lectin-intact lymphocyte system. The respective values for the affinity constant, were 3.5 x 10(6) M-1 and 6 x 10(6) M-1. The calculation of the number of sites per cell in each system specifies the yield of the trypsin digestion.", "PMID": 435556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2826", "title": "[Role of acetylcholinesterase in the transmembrane transfer of anions in erythrocytes].", "content": "Data are presented in favour of the regulatory role of AChE in passive transmembrane transfer of anions: 1) gradual inhibition of the enzyme with proserin brings about the change of the transport activation energy and irregular shift of temperature in the salient point on Arrhenius curves; 2) complexing of different AChE inhibitors (succinyl cholinechlorine, tetraethyl ammonium, tetramethyl ammonium, d-tubocurarin, proserin) results in the change of transport velocity. A significant increase of membrane binding of highly efficient and specific inhibitor of SITS anion transport forming complexes with membrane transport sites under the effect of acetylcholine AChE substrate is recorded. Proserin acts in the same direction, but to a much lesser degree. The removal of acetylcholine effect which activates SITS binding with the AChE inhibitor points to the initiation of structural disturbances from this enzyme. The scheme of AChE regulatory effect is suggested: modification of the enzyme conformation at the interaction with the inhibitors or substrate--structural rearrangement of the membranes--modulation of anion channels.", "contents": "[Role of acetylcholinesterase in the transmembrane transfer of anions in erythrocytes]. Data are presented in favour of the regulatory role of AChE in passive transmembrane transfer of anions: 1) gradual inhibition of the enzyme with proserin brings about the change of the transport activation energy and irregular shift of temperature in the salient point on Arrhenius curves; 2) complexing of different AChE inhibitors (succinyl cholinechlorine, tetraethyl ammonium, tetramethyl ammonium, d-tubocurarin, proserin) results in the change of transport velocity. A significant increase of membrane binding of highly efficient and specific inhibitor of SITS anion transport forming complexes with membrane transport sites under the effect of acetylcholine AChE substrate is recorded. Proserin acts in the same direction, but to a much lesser degree. The removal of acetylcholine effect which activates SITS binding with the AChE inhibitor points to the initiation of structural disturbances from this enzyme. The scheme of AChE regulatory effect is suggested: modification of the enzyme conformation at the interaction with the inhibitors or substrate--structural rearrangement of the membranes--modulation of anion channels.", "PMID": 435550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2827", "title": "Chemical and physical properties of human bronchial mucus glycoproteins.", "content": "Human bronchial mucus glycoproteins of different chemical types were isolated by Ecteola and gel exclusion chromatography. Chemical analysis indicated polydispersity with regard to content of sulfate and sialic acid. No blood group A, B or H activity was found in these glycoproteins. Compositions are reported for amino acid and sugar residues for several fractions obtained from both cystic fibrotic and chronic bronchitic mucus. It is noteworthy that glycoproteins extracted from a single subject contain molecules with different acid groups as well as significant differences in carbohydrate chain length.", "contents": "Chemical and physical properties of human bronchial mucus glycoproteins. Human bronchial mucus glycoproteins of different chemical types were isolated by Ecteola and gel exclusion chromatography. Chemical analysis indicated polydispersity with regard to content of sulfate and sialic acid. No blood group A, B or H activity was found in these glycoproteins. Compositions are reported for amino acid and sugar residues for several fractions obtained from both cystic fibrotic and chronic bronchitic mucus. It is noteworthy that glycoproteins extracted from a single subject contain molecules with different acid groups as well as significant differences in carbohydrate chain length.", "PMID": 435557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2828", "title": "Is a metabolic control for the doubling of the macromolecule synthesizing machinery possible.", "content": "The usual models for cell multiplication only involve macromolecular events and ignore the influence of metabolism. The conjecture presented here shows how metabolism could be involved. Separate pathways might cooperate for the synthesis of a small molecule, acting as positive control of several macromolecular syntheses, including stable RNA synthesis. A detailed analysis of the available data showing an influence of metabolites on macromolecular syntheses suggests that two main pathways might cooperate, one involving serine and folic acid metabolism and the second involving threonine and the branched chain aminoacids. Experiments are suggested to challenge the conjecture.", "contents": "Is a metabolic control for the doubling of the macromolecule synthesizing machinery possible. The usual models for cell multiplication only involve macromolecular events and ignore the influence of metabolism. The conjecture presented here shows how metabolism could be involved. Separate pathways might cooperate for the synthesis of a small molecule, acting as positive control of several macromolecular syntheses, including stable RNA synthesis. A detailed analysis of the available data showing an influence of metabolites on macromolecular syntheses suggests that two main pathways might cooperate, one involving serine and folic acid metabolism and the second involving threonine and the branched chain aminoacids. Experiments are suggested to challenge the conjecture.", "PMID": 435558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2829", "title": "Evidence for the glycoprotein nature of radish beta-fructosidase.", "content": "Concanavalin A (Con A) was utilized free, bound to Sepharose 4 B or cross-linked to glutaraldehyde to investigate the possibility of binding this lectin to radish beta-fructosidase (E.C.3.2.1.26). The choice of cross-linked Con A as affinoadsorbent is discussed and standard conditions for binding are defined. Specificity of precipitation of this enzyme by the lectin was especially investigated. Thus, the possibility of binding was tested in the presence of high ionic strength, ethylene glycol, alpha-methyl mannoside, alpha-methyl glucoside and during periodate oxidation of the enzyme. Based on the interactions observed between beta-fructosidase and Con A under these conditions it is concluded that the saccharide binding site of the lectin is primarily involved with a secondary contribution from the hydrophobic site. The specificity of binding and the complete precipitation of beta-fructosidase activity by the insolubilized lectin imply that all beta-fructosidase activity measured in Raphanus sativus seedling extracts is linked to (a) glycoprotein form(s) of this enzyme.", "contents": "Evidence for the glycoprotein nature of radish beta-fructosidase. Concanavalin A (Con A) was utilized free, bound to Sepharose 4 B or cross-linked to glutaraldehyde to investigate the possibility of binding this lectin to radish beta-fructosidase (E.C.3.2.1.26). The choice of cross-linked Con A as affinoadsorbent is discussed and standard conditions for binding are defined. Specificity of precipitation of this enzyme by the lectin was especially investigated. Thus, the possibility of binding was tested in the presence of high ionic strength, ethylene glycol, alpha-methyl mannoside, alpha-methyl glucoside and during periodate oxidation of the enzyme. Based on the interactions observed between beta-fructosidase and Con A under these conditions it is concluded that the saccharide binding site of the lectin is primarily involved with a secondary contribution from the hydrophobic site. The specificity of binding and the complete precipitation of beta-fructosidase activity by the insolubilized lectin imply that all beta-fructosidase activity measured in Raphanus sativus seedling extracts is linked to (a) glycoprotein form(s) of this enzyme.", "PMID": 435559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2830", "title": "[Possible mechanism of selective inhibition of rat liver mitochondrial monoamine oxidase by chlorgiline and deprenyl].", "content": "The inhibition of the deamination of serotonin (the main substrate of monoamine oxidase (MAO) type A) by chlorgiline and deprenyl and of beta-phenylethylamine (the main substrate of the B type MAO) by fragments of rat liver mitochondrial membrane as well as the influence of 4-ethylpyridine on this process were studied. It was shown that the MAO activity of the mitochondrial membrane fragments was highly sensitive to chlorgiline, when serotonin was used as substrate, whereas a high sensitivity toward deprenyl was observed with beta-phenylethylamine as substrate. 4-Ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M), a competitive and reversible inhibitor of the MAO activity, inhibited deamination of serotonin and beta-phenylethylamine by 34 and 30%, respectively. In experiments with chlorgiline (the specific inhibitor of MAO type A) 4-ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M) introduced into the samples after preincubation of mitochondria with increasing concentrations of chlorgiline (30 min, 23 degrees C) decreased the inhibition by chlorgiline of the deamination of beta-phenylethylamine, but sharply increased the inhibitory effect of chlorgiline on the oxidation of serotonin. In analogous experiments with deprenyl (the specific inhibitor of MAO type B) 4-ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M) decreased the inhibitory effect of deprenyl not only on the deamination of serotonin (substrate of MAO A), but also on the oxidation of beta-phenylethylamine (the main substrate of MAO type B). The decrease in the inhibitory effect of deprenyl on the deamination of beta-phenylethylamine after the addition of 4-ethylpyridine may be intensified upon preincubation of deprenyl with mitochondria in the presence of 4-ethylpyridine. The data obtained demonstrate the difference in the type and mechanism of inhibition of the deamination of serotonin by chlorgiline as well as in the type and mechanism of oxidation of beta-phenylethylamine by deprenyl. The possible mechanism of selective blocking of MAO activity by chlorgiline and deprenyl was discussed in terms of our previous data on the existence in the active center of mitochondrial MAO of specific sites for substrate binding, differing in their structure-functional characteristics.", "contents": "[Possible mechanism of selective inhibition of rat liver mitochondrial monoamine oxidase by chlorgiline and deprenyl]. The inhibition of the deamination of serotonin (the main substrate of monoamine oxidase (MAO) type A) by chlorgiline and deprenyl and of beta-phenylethylamine (the main substrate of the B type MAO) by fragments of rat liver mitochondrial membrane as well as the influence of 4-ethylpyridine on this process were studied. It was shown that the MAO activity of the mitochondrial membrane fragments was highly sensitive to chlorgiline, when serotonin was used as substrate, whereas a high sensitivity toward deprenyl was observed with beta-phenylethylamine as substrate. 4-Ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M), a competitive and reversible inhibitor of the MAO activity, inhibited deamination of serotonin and beta-phenylethylamine by 34 and 30%, respectively. In experiments with chlorgiline (the specific inhibitor of MAO type A) 4-ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M) introduced into the samples after preincubation of mitochondria with increasing concentrations of chlorgiline (30 min, 23 degrees C) decreased the inhibition by chlorgiline of the deamination of beta-phenylethylamine, but sharply increased the inhibitory effect of chlorgiline on the oxidation of serotonin. In analogous experiments with deprenyl (the specific inhibitor of MAO type B) 4-ethylpyridine (5.10(-3) M) decreased the inhibitory effect of deprenyl not only on the deamination of serotonin (substrate of MAO A), but also on the oxidation of beta-phenylethylamine (the main substrate of MAO type B). The decrease in the inhibitory effect of deprenyl on the deamination of beta-phenylethylamine after the addition of 4-ethylpyridine may be intensified upon preincubation of deprenyl with mitochondria in the presence of 4-ethylpyridine. The data obtained demonstrate the difference in the type and mechanism of inhibition of the deamination of serotonin by chlorgiline as well as in the type and mechanism of oxidation of beta-phenylethylamine by deprenyl. The possible mechanism of selective blocking of MAO activity by chlorgiline and deprenyl was discussed in terms of our previous data on the existence in the active center of mitochondrial MAO of specific sites for substrate binding, differing in their structure-functional characteristics.", "PMID": 435561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2831", "title": "[Investigation of essential SH-groups of bacterial formate dehydrogenase].", "content": "Modification of two SH-groups in the molecule of formate dehydrogenase by dithiobisnitrobenzoate or to dacetamide results in the enzyme inactivation. Coenzymes, but not the substrate, protect the enzyme against the inactivation. NAD in the presence of potassium azide completely preserves the enzyme activity. Two SH-groups per enzyme molecule are protected from modification. The Km values for partially inactivated formate dehydrogenase remain constant for both substrates. The enzyme with modified SH-groups does not bind conezymes. The pH-dependence of the inactivation rate reveals the ionizable group with pK 9.6 (25 degrees C). The involvement of essential SH-groups in coenzyme binding is discussed.", "contents": "[Investigation of essential SH-groups of bacterial formate dehydrogenase]. Modification of two SH-groups in the molecule of formate dehydrogenase by dithiobisnitrobenzoate or to dacetamide results in the enzyme inactivation. Coenzymes, but not the substrate, protect the enzyme against the inactivation. NAD in the presence of potassium azide completely preserves the enzyme activity. Two SH-groups per enzyme molecule are protected from modification. The Km values for partially inactivated formate dehydrogenase remain constant for both substrates. The enzyme with modified SH-groups does not bind conezymes. The pH-dependence of the inactivation rate reveals the ionizable group with pK 9.6 (25 degrees C). The involvement of essential SH-groups in coenzyme binding is discussed.", "PMID": 435562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2832", "title": "[Mechanism of activation of acetylcholinesterase in brain tissue homogenates by detergents].", "content": "The mechanisms of activation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the homogenates of rat and frog forebrains and medullae oblongatae under effects of non--ionic detergents (Triton X-100 and Tw-en 80) were studied. Titration of the active centers of enzyme by the highly selective phosphoorganic inhibitor HD-42 showed that the inhibitor-induced activation is due to the appearance of previously masked active sites of the enzyme. Activation of AChE in the homogenates of rat brain medulla oblongata was caused by lysis of the structural elements of nervous tissue which were not destroyed by homogenization. Another mechanism of AChE activation by the detergents (frog brain homogenate) is the destruction of the vesicular membrane structures present in the homogenate with AChE centers located on the inner surface of the vesicles.", "contents": "[Mechanism of activation of acetylcholinesterase in brain tissue homogenates by detergents]. The mechanisms of activation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the homogenates of rat and frog forebrains and medullae oblongatae under effects of non--ionic detergents (Triton X-100 and Tw-en 80) were studied. Titration of the active centers of enzyme by the highly selective phosphoorganic inhibitor HD-42 showed that the inhibitor-induced activation is due to the appearance of previously masked active sites of the enzyme. Activation of AChE in the homogenates of rat brain medulla oblongata was caused by lysis of the structural elements of nervous tissue which were not destroyed by homogenization. Another mechanism of AChE activation by the detergents (frog brain homogenate) is the destruction of the vesicular membrane structures present in the homogenate with AChE centers located on the inner surface of the vesicles.", "PMID": 435563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2833", "title": "[Activation of glucocorticoid cytoreceptors in rat heart].", "content": "Accumulation of 3H-dexamethasone by the nuclei in a cell-free system was studied. The increase in temperature from 0 degrees to 20 degrees C and treatment of cytosol by KCl (0.4 M) or theophylline (10mM) significantly increased the absorption the bound hormone by the nuclear fraction. Activation of the steroid-protein complex induced by temperature and addition of theophylline did not change its size. The increase in the ionic strength decreased the Stokes radius from 53 A down to 39.5 A and the sedimentation coefficient value from 7S down to 4S. It is concluded that the heart tissue cytoplasm contains a glucocorticoid receptor.", "contents": "[Activation of glucocorticoid cytoreceptors in rat heart]. Accumulation of 3H-dexamethasone by the nuclei in a cell-free system was studied. The increase in temperature from 0 degrees to 20 degrees C and treatment of cytosol by KCl (0.4 M) or theophylline (10mM) significantly increased the absorption the bound hormone by the nuclear fraction. Activation of the steroid-protein complex induced by temperature and addition of theophylline did not change its size. The increase in the ionic strength decreased the Stokes radius from 53 A down to 39.5 A and the sedimentation coefficient value from 7S down to 4S. It is concluded that the heart tissue cytoplasm contains a glucocorticoid receptor.", "PMID": 435564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2834", "title": "[Content of thyroglobulin polyribosomes in normal and pathological thyroid cells].", "content": "The content of individual thyreoglobulin (TG) polyribosomes in human thyroid gland was studied in healthy persons and in patients with thyroid pathology. The content of TG polyribosomes makes up to 16.2% in normal thyroid tissue and is found to decrease down to 7.8% and 7% under nodal euthyroid goiter and toxic adenoma, respectively. This content is decreased to 12.5% under diffuse toxic goiter and is intermediate between nodal and diffuse toxic goiter under mixed goiter (9.4%).", "contents": "[Content of thyroglobulin polyribosomes in normal and pathological thyroid cells]. The content of individual thyreoglobulin (TG) polyribosomes in human thyroid gland was studied in healthy persons and in patients with thyroid pathology. The content of TG polyribosomes makes up to 16.2% in normal thyroid tissue and is found to decrease down to 7.8% and 7% under nodal euthyroid goiter and toxic adenoma, respectively. This content is decreased to 12.5% under diffuse toxic goiter and is intermediate between nodal and diffuse toxic goiter under mixed goiter (9.4%).", "PMID": 435565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2835", "title": "[Isolation and properties of neutral SH-dependent proteinase from bovine spleen].", "content": "A neutral SH-dependent proteinase was isolated from bovine spleen by a slight modification of the previous method (1) and its action on some natural and synthetic substrates was studied. The activity of the enzyme was increased 2000--2500-fold as compared to that of the original extract. The enzyme hydrolyzed various histones (H1, H2a, H2b, H3), casein and protamine but did not split hemoglobin, serum albumin and 14C-tryptophane-labelled total protein from chicken embryos. The enzyme possessed neither collagenolytic nor elastase activity; it did not inactivate aldolase, hexokinase, glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which makes the enzyme different from cathepsin B1 and some other previously described proteinases. The enzyme did not split BAPA, BAEE, ATEE, Boc-Ala-ONP, Leu-beta-NA and some other peptides. The molecular weight of the enzyme was found to be about 15 000.", "contents": "[Isolation and properties of neutral SH-dependent proteinase from bovine spleen]. A neutral SH-dependent proteinase was isolated from bovine spleen by a slight modification of the previous method (1) and its action on some natural and synthetic substrates was studied. The activity of the enzyme was increased 2000--2500-fold as compared to that of the original extract. The enzyme hydrolyzed various histones (H1, H2a, H2b, H3), casein and protamine but did not split hemoglobin, serum albumin and 14C-tryptophane-labelled total protein from chicken embryos. The enzyme possessed neither collagenolytic nor elastase activity; it did not inactivate aldolase, hexokinase, glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which makes the enzyme different from cathepsin B1 and some other previously described proteinases. The enzyme did not split BAPA, BAEE, ATEE, Boc-Ala-ONP, Leu-beta-NA and some other peptides. The molecular weight of the enzyme was found to be about 15 000.", "PMID": 435566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2836", "title": "[Affinity chromatography of subtilisin on a sorbent with epsilon-aminocapronyl-alanyl-alanyl-D-leucylamide. Detection of a serine protease with unusual properties].", "content": "A biospecific sorbent obtained by attachment of epsilon-aminocapronyl-L-alanyl-L-alanyl-D-leucylamide to CNBr-activated Sepharose 4B has been used for affinity chromatography of various samples of subtilisin BPN', e.g. subtilisin A (\"Serva\"), Nagarse, A-50. Two active components were isolated from subtilisin A (Serva\"), the major component corresponding to subtilisin BPN' and the minor component (SII) being a serine proteinase with low molecular weight (about 10000). The molecular weight and amino acid composition of SII as well as the kinetic parameters of its action on peptide substrates (p-nitroanilides of N-benzyloxycarbonyl-Gly-Gly-Leu, -Ala-Ala-Leu, -Gly-Gly-Phe, -Ala-Ala-Phe. The low molecular weight proteinase possesses a high affinity for the leucine residue in P1 position and alanine in P2 and P3 positions. The specificity of this proteinase differs from that of the main component.", "contents": "[Affinity chromatography of subtilisin on a sorbent with epsilon-aminocapronyl-alanyl-alanyl-D-leucylamide. Detection of a serine protease with unusual properties]. A biospecific sorbent obtained by attachment of epsilon-aminocapronyl-L-alanyl-L-alanyl-D-leucylamide to CNBr-activated Sepharose 4B has been used for affinity chromatography of various samples of subtilisin BPN', e.g. subtilisin A (\"Serva\"), Nagarse, A-50. Two active components were isolated from subtilisin A (Serva\"), the major component corresponding to subtilisin BPN' and the minor component (SII) being a serine proteinase with low molecular weight (about 10000). The molecular weight and amino acid composition of SII as well as the kinetic parameters of its action on peptide substrates (p-nitroanilides of N-benzyloxycarbonyl-Gly-Gly-Leu, -Ala-Ala-Leu, -Gly-Gly-Phe, -Ala-Ala-Phe. The low molecular weight proteinase possesses a high affinity for the leucine residue in P1 position and alanine in P2 and P3 positions. The specificity of this proteinase differs from that of the main component.", "PMID": 435567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2837", "title": "[Kinetic and allosteric properties of L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase from human liver].", "content": "It was shown that low concentrations of ATP (1..10(-4)M) and 10-fold concentrations of AMP (1.10(-3)M) at three constant L-threonine concentrations activated the L-threonine dehydratase activity of L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase from human liver, but had no effect on the L-serine dehydratase activity of this enzyme. Higher concentrations of both nucleotides inhibited the enzyme. The effects of ATP and AMP were specific. The activating and inhibiting effects of various concentrations of ATP and AMP were revealed as changes in the shapes of the curves for the initial reaction rate of the L-threonine dehydratase reaction versus initial substrate concentration. For this reaction the curves were not hyperbolic and were characterized by intermediary plateaux. ATP and AMP also influenced the maximal rate of the enzymatic reaction. Using the desensitization method it was shown that the activating effects of ATP and AMP are of allosteric nature. Thus, human liver L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase is an allosteric enzyme, for which positive allosteric effectors are low concentrations of ATP and AMP and negative allosteric effectors are high concentrations of these nucleotides. A possible mechanism of allosteric regulation of the enzyme under catalysis of the L-threonine dehydratase reaction and the lack of regulation under catalysis of the L-serine dehydratase reaction as well as specificity of the allosteric sites of this enzyme to the two nucleotides and the physiological significance of this process are discussed.", "contents": "[Kinetic and allosteric properties of L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase from human liver]. It was shown that low concentrations of ATP (1..10(-4)M) and 10-fold concentrations of AMP (1.10(-3)M) at three constant L-threonine concentrations activated the L-threonine dehydratase activity of L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase from human liver, but had no effect on the L-serine dehydratase activity of this enzyme. Higher concentrations of both nucleotides inhibited the enzyme. The effects of ATP and AMP were specific. The activating and inhibiting effects of various concentrations of ATP and AMP were revealed as changes in the shapes of the curves for the initial reaction rate of the L-threonine dehydratase reaction versus initial substrate concentration. For this reaction the curves were not hyperbolic and were characterized by intermediary plateaux. ATP and AMP also influenced the maximal rate of the enzymatic reaction. Using the desensitization method it was shown that the activating effects of ATP and AMP are of allosteric nature. Thus, human liver L-threonine-L-serine dehydratase is an allosteric enzyme, for which positive allosteric effectors are low concentrations of ATP and AMP and negative allosteric effectors are high concentrations of these nucleotides. A possible mechanism of allosteric regulation of the enzyme under catalysis of the L-threonine dehydratase reaction and the lack of regulation under catalysis of the L-serine dehydratase reaction as well as specificity of the allosteric sites of this enzyme to the two nucleotides and the physiological significance of this process are discussed.", "PMID": 435568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2838", "title": "[Changes in the phospholipid content of intact mitochondria under mitochondrial swelling in hypotonic sucrose solutions].", "content": "Mitochondrial swelling in hypotonic sucrose solutions is accompanied by a decrease of the amount of phosphatidyl ethanolamines, cardiolipids and their lyso-derivatives. An addition of dicaine (inhibitor of phospholipase) to the incubation medium results in a considerable decrease of mitochondrial swelling and prevents the decay of phosphatidyl ethanolamines and cardiolipids. This effect is due to the inhibition of corresponding phospholipases. The data obtained suggest that the passive mitochondrial swelling is accompanied by activation of endogenous phospholipases and by a hydrolysis of cardiolipids, phosphatidyl ethanolamines and their lyso-derivatives.", "contents": "[Changes in the phospholipid content of intact mitochondria under mitochondrial swelling in hypotonic sucrose solutions]. Mitochondrial swelling in hypotonic sucrose solutions is accompanied by a decrease of the amount of phosphatidyl ethanolamines, cardiolipids and their lyso-derivatives. An addition of dicaine (inhibitor of phospholipase) to the incubation medium results in a considerable decrease of mitochondrial swelling and prevents the decay of phosphatidyl ethanolamines and cardiolipids. This effect is due to the inhibition of corresponding phospholipases. The data obtained suggest that the passive mitochondrial swelling is accompanied by activation of endogenous phospholipases and by a hydrolysis of cardiolipids, phosphatidyl ethanolamines and their lyso-derivatives.", "PMID": 435569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2839", "title": "[Interaction between immobilized antibodies and the antigen-enzyme complex].", "content": "The interaction between immobilized antibodies against human immunoglobulin G (IgG) and the immunoenzyme complex IgG-peroxidase (IgG-P) was studied. The complex was obtained by covalent binding of IgG to peroxidase modified by sodium periodate. Study of the IgG-P binding kinetics and dissociation of the antibody-(IgG-P) complex showed that the antibodies immobilized on Sepharose reversibly interacted with IgG-P, similar to the antigen-antibody reaction in solution. The efficient values of the binding constants for the antibodies binding to Sepharose covalently and through the antigen-antibody bond are (2,2+/-0,5) 10(8) M-1 and (4,2+/-0,2) 10(8) M-1, respectively. The nature of a carrier and the immobilization method used do not significantly affect the rate of the complex binding to the antibodies. The activation energy of the reaction of IgG-P binding to the antibodies immobilized on Sepharose covalently and through the antigen-antibody bond is 7,3 and 4,1 kcal/mole, respectively. A procedure of titration of immobilized antibodies active sites with the antigen-enzyme complex is discussed.", "contents": "[Interaction between immobilized antibodies and the antigen-enzyme complex]. The interaction between immobilized antibodies against human immunoglobulin G (IgG) and the immunoenzyme complex IgG-peroxidase (IgG-P) was studied. The complex was obtained by covalent binding of IgG to peroxidase modified by sodium periodate. Study of the IgG-P binding kinetics and dissociation of the antibody-(IgG-P) complex showed that the antibodies immobilized on Sepharose reversibly interacted with IgG-P, similar to the antigen-antibody reaction in solution. The efficient values of the binding constants for the antibodies binding to Sepharose covalently and through the antigen-antibody bond are (2,2+/-0,5) 10(8) M-1 and (4,2+/-0,2) 10(8) M-1, respectively. The nature of a carrier and the immobilization method used do not significantly affect the rate of the complex binding to the antibodies. The activation energy of the reaction of IgG-P binding to the antibodies immobilized on Sepharose covalently and through the antigen-antibody bond is 7,3 and 4,1 kcal/mole, respectively. A procedure of titration of immobilized antibodies active sites with the antigen-enzyme complex is discussed.", "PMID": 435570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2840", "title": "[Fusion of planar bilayer phospholipid membranes with liposomes].", "content": "Lecithine-cholesterol liposomes containing amphotericin B ionoforic marker were used to study the interaction between liposomes and planar phospholipid membranes. The liposomes were shown to increase the permeability of the planar membrane, which may be explained in terms of membrane fusion. Bivalent cations (Mg2+ and particularly Ca2+), dicetylphosphate producing negatively charged groups on the membrane surface and the n-decane suspension in water promote the fusion, whereas the increase of the cholesterol content in the liposomes prevents it.", "contents": "[Fusion of planar bilayer phospholipid membranes with liposomes]. Lecithine-cholesterol liposomes containing amphotericin B ionoforic marker were used to study the interaction between liposomes and planar phospholipid membranes. The liposomes were shown to increase the permeability of the planar membrane, which may be explained in terms of membrane fusion. Bivalent cations (Mg2+ and particularly Ca2+), dicetylphosphate producing negatively charged groups on the membrane surface and the n-decane suspension in water promote the fusion, whereas the increase of the cholesterol content in the liposomes prevents it.", "PMID": 435571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2841", "title": "[Fractionation of nucleosides and nucleoside-5'-mono-, di and triphosphates by thin layer chromatography in silufol].", "content": "New solvent systems--dioxane--isopropanol--water--ammonium (4:2:4:1) and dioxane--water--ammonium (6:4:1)--for rapid qualitative and quantitative estimation of nucleosides, nucleoside-5'-mono-, di- and triphosphates by thin layer chromatography is Silufol UV-254 are proposed. The Rf values for 40 ribo- and deoxyribonucleotides of these systems are given.", "contents": "[Fractionation of nucleosides and nucleoside-5'-mono-, di and triphosphates by thin layer chromatography in silufol]. New solvent systems--dioxane--isopropanol--water--ammonium (4:2:4:1) and dioxane--water--ammonium (6:4:1)--for rapid qualitative and quantitative estimation of nucleosides, nucleoside-5'-mono-, di- and triphosphates by thin layer chromatography is Silufol UV-254 are proposed. The Rf values for 40 ribo- and deoxyribonucleotides of these systems are given.", "PMID": 435572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2842", "title": "[Creatine kinase from muscle cell nuclei].", "content": "It has been firstly demonstrated that rat heart and skeletal muscle nuclei contain creatine dinase, one of the most important enzymes of energy metabolism. The nuclei isolated in concentrated sucrose were practically free from cytoplasm and mitochondrial fragments. Electrophoresis in acetyl cellulose revealed that the nuclear extracts from rat heart and skeletal muscles contain only one isoenzyme of creatine kinase similar in mobility to the mitochondrial isoenzyme. The magnitude of Km values for creatine kinase from the nuclei of both tissues was determined. It was shown histochemically that creatine kinase is localized inside the nuclei, predominantly in the sites of chromatin location. A possible role of the enzyme in nuclear metabolism is discussed.", "contents": "[Creatine kinase from muscle cell nuclei]. It has been firstly demonstrated that rat heart and skeletal muscle nuclei contain creatine dinase, one of the most important enzymes of energy metabolism. The nuclei isolated in concentrated sucrose were practically free from cytoplasm and mitochondrial fragments. Electrophoresis in acetyl cellulose revealed that the nuclear extracts from rat heart and skeletal muscles contain only one isoenzyme of creatine kinase similar in mobility to the mitochondrial isoenzyme. The magnitude of Km values for creatine kinase from the nuclei of both tissues was determined. It was shown histochemically that creatine kinase is localized inside the nuclei, predominantly in the sites of chromatin location. A possible role of the enzyme in nuclear metabolism is discussed.", "PMID": 435573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2843", "title": "[Effect of higher alcohols on the activity of biosynthetic L-threonine dehydratase from Saccharomyces carlsbergensis brewer's yeast].", "content": "The effects of low (1 . 10(-4) M) and high (1 . 10(-3) M) concentrations of n-propanol, isobutanol and isoamylols on the kinetic behaviour of \"biosynthetic\" L-threonine dehydratase from brewer's yeast S. carlsbergensis 776 were studied. It was concluded that these alcohols control the activity of the first enzyme of the L-threonine biosynthetic pathway.", "contents": "[Effect of higher alcohols on the activity of biosynthetic L-threonine dehydratase from Saccharomyces carlsbergensis brewer's yeast]. The effects of low (1 . 10(-4) M) and high (1 . 10(-3) M) concentrations of n-propanol, isobutanol and isoamylols on the kinetic behaviour of \"biosynthetic\" L-threonine dehydratase from brewer's yeast S. carlsbergensis 776 were studied. It was concluded that these alcohols control the activity of the first enzyme of the L-threonine biosynthetic pathway.", "PMID": 435574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2844", "title": "[Effect of polyethylene glycol on association of muscle phosphorylase B].", "content": "It has been shown that a neutral polymer poly(ethyleneglycol) with molecular weight of 4000 and more shifts the equilibrium between the dimer and tetramer forms of phosphorylase B from rabbit skeletal muscles in the direction of formation of species with higher molecular weights. Poly(ethyleneglycol) with molecular weight below 600 has no effect on the association process. Phosphorylase B is precipitated in the form of crystals in the presence of poly(ethyleneglycol) mol. weight 40,000), when the concentration of the latter is higher than 50 mg/ml. AMP and sulfate ions are required for the crystallization process.", "contents": "[Effect of polyethylene glycol on association of muscle phosphorylase B]. It has been shown that a neutral polymer poly(ethyleneglycol) with molecular weight of 4000 and more shifts the equilibrium between the dimer and tetramer forms of phosphorylase B from rabbit skeletal muscles in the direction of formation of species with higher molecular weights. Poly(ethyleneglycol) with molecular weight below 600 has no effect on the association process. Phosphorylase B is precipitated in the form of crystals in the presence of poly(ethyleneglycol) mol. weight 40,000), when the concentration of the latter is higher than 50 mg/ml. AMP and sulfate ions are required for the crystallization process.", "PMID": 435575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2845", "title": "[Increases in the activity of lysosomal DNAase in mouse liver during the development of Friend's viral leukemia].", "content": "A developing Friend's viral leukemia is accompanied by a 2,0--2,5-fold increase in the activity of lysosomal DNAse (DNAse II) in mouse liver as compared to normal. The increase in activity is observed on the 10--12th day after inoculation of virus-containing material and reaches its maximum on the 20th post-inoculation day. The increase in DNAse II activity is due to activation of the lysosomal system of Kupffer's and endothelial cells of the liver. The activity of mitochondrial DNAse (DNAse I) in the livers of leukemic mice showed no deviations from the normal level. A possible role of DNAse II in the protective response of the organism is discussed.", "contents": "[Increases in the activity of lysosomal DNAase in mouse liver during the development of Friend's viral leukemia]. A developing Friend's viral leukemia is accompanied by a 2,0--2,5-fold increase in the activity of lysosomal DNAse (DNAse II) in mouse liver as compared to normal. The increase in activity is observed on the 10--12th day after inoculation of virus-containing material and reaches its maximum on the 20th post-inoculation day. The increase in DNAse II activity is due to activation of the lysosomal system of Kupffer's and endothelial cells of the liver. The activity of mitochondrial DNAse (DNAse I) in the livers of leukemic mice showed no deviations from the normal level. A possible role of DNAse II in the protective response of the organism is discussed.", "PMID": 435576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2846", "title": "[Inhibition of human granulocyte proteinases by a heat and acid-stable proteinase inhibitor from rabbit serum].", "content": "Several human granulocyte proteinases sensitive to the thermo- and acid-resistant proteinase inhibitor from rabbit serum (TASPI) were revealed, using TASPI-Sepharose 4B. It was found that TASPI inhibits the following human granulocyte proteinases: granules-localized kininogenase and chymotrypsin-like kininase (serine proteinases), elastase-like proteinase and benzoyl arginine ethyl ester esterase, as well as chymotrypsin-like kininase from the post-granule supernatant. These enzymes were compared to known granulocyte proteinases. Some carboxylic kininogenase sensitive to TASPI was identified in the granulocyte membrane debris fraction. The capability to inhibit neutral kininogenase suggests that TASPI is a first natural proteinase inhibitor, which can differentiate granulocyte and blood plasma kininogenases. Using trypsin-Sepharose 4B in the granulocyte post-granule supernatant, the acid-resistant trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitor was identified. The data obtained are indicative of an antiinflammatory function of TASPI in mammals.", "contents": "[Inhibition of human granulocyte proteinases by a heat and acid-stable proteinase inhibitor from rabbit serum]. Several human granulocyte proteinases sensitive to the thermo- and acid-resistant proteinase inhibitor from rabbit serum (TASPI) were revealed, using TASPI-Sepharose 4B. It was found that TASPI inhibits the following human granulocyte proteinases: granules-localized kininogenase and chymotrypsin-like kininase (serine proteinases), elastase-like proteinase and benzoyl arginine ethyl ester esterase, as well as chymotrypsin-like kininase from the post-granule supernatant. These enzymes were compared to known granulocyte proteinases. Some carboxylic kininogenase sensitive to TASPI was identified in the granulocyte membrane debris fraction. The capability to inhibit neutral kininogenase suggests that TASPI is a first natural proteinase inhibitor, which can differentiate granulocyte and blood plasma kininogenases. Using trypsin-Sepharose 4B in the granulocyte post-granule supernatant, the acid-resistant trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitor was identified. The data obtained are indicative of an antiinflammatory function of TASPI in mammals.", "PMID": 435577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2847", "title": "[Protein composition of crystals (delta-endotoxin) of different serotypes of Bac. thuringiensis].", "content": "The crystals of entomopathogenic protein from Bac. thuringiensis contain admixtures of proteinases adhering to their surfaces. A newly developed technique of protease inactivation allowed to estimate the true protein composition of the crystals of various strains of Bac. thuringiensis. It was shown that the crystals of all strains (with the exception of V and VIII) are composed of only one protein with molecular weights of 145,000, 135,000 and 130,000, depending on the strain. The crystals of serotype VIII and the majority of the V serotype strains have two proteins with molecular weights of 135,000 and 130,000. A method for estimation of the protein composition of crystal without their preliminary isolation from a crystal--spore mixture is proposed.", "contents": "[Protein composition of crystals (delta-endotoxin) of different serotypes of Bac. thuringiensis]. The crystals of entomopathogenic protein from Bac. thuringiensis contain admixtures of proteinases adhering to their surfaces. A newly developed technique of protease inactivation allowed to estimate the true protein composition of the crystals of various strains of Bac. thuringiensis. It was shown that the crystals of all strains (with the exception of V and VIII) are composed of only one protein with molecular weights of 145,000, 135,000 and 130,000, depending on the strain. The crystals of serotype VIII and the majority of the V serotype strains have two proteins with molecular weights of 135,000 and 130,000. A method for estimation of the protein composition of crystal without their preliminary isolation from a crystal--spore mixture is proposed.", "PMID": 435578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2848", "title": "[Accelerated microsomal DNA synthesis under the influence of xenobiotics and chemical carcinogens].", "content": "Injection of 3,4-benz(a)pyrene, methyl nitrosourea and phenobarbital into healthy mice of the C3HA line results in a rapid, sharp increase of [14C]-thymidine incorporated into liver microsomal DNA, accompanied by a suppression of nuclear DNA synthesis. In the liver of neoplastic mice and in the ascite cells of hepatoma 22A the system of microsomal DNA synthesis was insensitive to the injection of methyl nitrosourea. Cycloheximide and puromycin, which strongly inhibited nuclear DNA synthesis, had no effect on the synthesis of microsomal DNA. Stimulation of [14C]-thymidine incorporation into microsomal DNA after injection of methyl nitrosourea and 3,4-benz(a)pyrene may be accounted for not only by an increase of the DNA reparation processes, since caffeine, the inhibitor of post-replicatory reparation of DNA, did not eliminate the induction of microsomal DNA synthesis in the liver. Hydroxyurea in combination with methyl nitrosourea and phenobarbital significantly suppressed the synthesis of nuclear DNA in the liver and did not affect the synthesis of mtDNA; the stimulating effects of these inducers on the synthesis of microsomal DNA was thereby removed. This is indicative of independence of synthesis of microsomal DNA on that of nuclear DNA and mtDNA. Different specific radioactivities of microsomal, nuclear and mtDNAs in the regenerating mouse liver on the 5th, 10th and 15th post-hepatectomy days may be due to different metabolic stability of these DNAs. A possible role of microsomal DNA as a xenobiotic system component is discussed.", "contents": "[Accelerated microsomal DNA synthesis under the influence of xenobiotics and chemical carcinogens]. Injection of 3,4-benz(a)pyrene, methyl nitrosourea and phenobarbital into healthy mice of the C3HA line results in a rapid, sharp increase of [14C]-thymidine incorporated into liver microsomal DNA, accompanied by a suppression of nuclear DNA synthesis. In the liver of neoplastic mice and in the ascite cells of hepatoma 22A the system of microsomal DNA synthesis was insensitive to the injection of methyl nitrosourea. Cycloheximide and puromycin, which strongly inhibited nuclear DNA synthesis, had no effect on the synthesis of microsomal DNA. Stimulation of [14C]-thymidine incorporation into microsomal DNA after injection of methyl nitrosourea and 3,4-benz(a)pyrene may be accounted for not only by an increase of the DNA reparation processes, since caffeine, the inhibitor of post-replicatory reparation of DNA, did not eliminate the induction of microsomal DNA synthesis in the liver. Hydroxyurea in combination with methyl nitrosourea and phenobarbital significantly suppressed the synthesis of nuclear DNA in the liver and did not affect the synthesis of mtDNA; the stimulating effects of these inducers on the synthesis of microsomal DNA was thereby removed. This is indicative of independence of synthesis of microsomal DNA on that of nuclear DNA and mtDNA. Different specific radioactivities of microsomal, nuclear and mtDNAs in the regenerating mouse liver on the 5th, 10th and 15th post-hepatectomy days may be due to different metabolic stability of these DNAs. A possible role of microsomal DNA as a xenobiotic system component is discussed.", "PMID": 435579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2849", "title": "[Photoinduced changes in adsorption at 800 nm related to photosystem I functioning].", "content": "The spectra and kinetics of light-induced absorbance changes in the near-infrared region of subchloroplast fragments enriched by P700 were studied. An increase in absorbancy within the region of 725--900 nm upon illumination was characterized by a maximum around 810 nm and by \"shoulders\" around 760 and 870 nm. Similar effects of thermal inactivation and low temperatures on the duration of dark recovery of light-induced absorbance changes at 700 nm and within the region of 725--900 nm suggest that the absorbance changes in the near-infrared region are due to photooxidation of P700. The values of P700 differential extinction coefficients at 810 nm are 8,2.10(3) M-1.cm-1 for digitonin fragments and 7,7.10(3) M-1.cm-1 for fragments prepared with the use of diethyl ester. It was shown that the value of midpoint oxidation-reduction potential measured for the absorbance changes at 810 nm (+492 mv) is higher than that measured at 700 nm (+475 mv).", "contents": "[Photoinduced changes in adsorption at 800 nm related to photosystem I functioning]. The spectra and kinetics of light-induced absorbance changes in the near-infrared region of subchloroplast fragments enriched by P700 were studied. An increase in absorbancy within the region of 725--900 nm upon illumination was characterized by a maximum around 810 nm and by \"shoulders\" around 760 and 870 nm. Similar effects of thermal inactivation and low temperatures on the duration of dark recovery of light-induced absorbance changes at 700 nm and within the region of 725--900 nm suggest that the absorbance changes in the near-infrared region are due to photooxidation of P700. The values of P700 differential extinction coefficients at 810 nm are 8,2.10(3) M-1.cm-1 for digitonin fragments and 7,7.10(3) M-1.cm-1 for fragments prepared with the use of diethyl ester. It was shown that the value of midpoint oxidation-reduction potential measured for the absorbance changes at 810 nm (+492 mv) is higher than that measured at 700 nm (+475 mv).", "PMID": 435580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2850", "title": "[Resistance of ascitic fluid immunosuppressive factor DNA to pancreatic deoxyribonuclease].", "content": "It was found that incubation of Ehrlich tumour ascitic fluid with pancreatic DNAse does not result in a destruction of 5S DNA in the immunodepressive factor. After phenol deproteination of the ascitic fluid the resistance of this nucleic factor to DNAse is lost. It is possible that the native nucleic factor is represented by DNP and contains a protein component. During polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis the mobility of the nucleic factor labelled with [3H]-thymidine and isolated after chromatography on hydroxyapatite is found to be nearly the same as that for transferine.", "contents": "[Resistance of ascitic fluid immunosuppressive factor DNA to pancreatic deoxyribonuclease]. It was found that incubation of Ehrlich tumour ascitic fluid with pancreatic DNAse does not result in a destruction of 5S DNA in the immunodepressive factor. After phenol deproteination of the ascitic fluid the resistance of this nucleic factor to DNAse is lost. It is possible that the native nucleic factor is represented by DNP and contains a protein component. During polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis the mobility of the nucleic factor labelled with [3H]-thymidine and isolated after chromatography on hydroxyapatite is found to be nearly the same as that for transferine.", "PMID": 435581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2851", "title": "[Cytochrome b556 complexes solubilized from Micrococcus lysodeikticus membranes by triton X-100].", "content": "The integral protein of cytochrome b556 after its solubilization with Triton X-100 from M. lysodeikticus membranes was studied. The cytochrome was found in complexes differing in charge and size during preparative gel electrophoresis and centrifugation in a sucrose concentration gradient. Cytochrome b556, being in complexes, retains its ability to be reduced by NADH dehydrogenase. The electron micrographs of the membranes after solubilization by Triton X-100 demonstrated the maintenance of the membrane structure. It is concluded that native protein complexes marked with cytochrome b556 are extracted from the membranes under their solubilization.", "contents": "[Cytochrome b556 complexes solubilized from Micrococcus lysodeikticus membranes by triton X-100]. The integral protein of cytochrome b556 after its solubilization with Triton X-100 from M. lysodeikticus membranes was studied. The cytochrome was found in complexes differing in charge and size during preparative gel electrophoresis and centrifugation in a sucrose concentration gradient. Cytochrome b556, being in complexes, retains its ability to be reduced by NADH dehydrogenase. The electron micrographs of the membranes after solubilization by Triton X-100 demonstrated the maintenance of the membrane structure. It is concluded that native protein complexes marked with cytochrome b556 are extracted from the membranes under their solubilization.", "PMID": 435582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2852", "title": "[Accessibility of microsomal membrane proteins for protease K].", "content": "The effect of protease K on the microsomal membrane proteins was studied. It was shown that treatment of the microsomal membranes by low concentrations of protease did not remove more than 35% of total membrane proteins. Treatment by higher protease concentrations removed about 50% of the proteins. The residual protein is accessible to protease after treatment of the membranes by phospholipase A2. A simultaneous treatment of the microsomal membrane by protease and phospholipase removed up to 80% of the membrane proteins. In this way about 30% of microsomal membrane proteins are protected by the phospholipid against the action of protease K.", "contents": "[Accessibility of microsomal membrane proteins for protease K]. The effect of protease K on the microsomal membrane proteins was studied. It was shown that treatment of the microsomal membranes by low concentrations of protease did not remove more than 35% of total membrane proteins. Treatment by higher protease concentrations removed about 50% of the proteins. The residual protein is accessible to protease after treatment of the membranes by phospholipase A2. A simultaneous treatment of the microsomal membrane by protease and phospholipase removed up to 80% of the membrane proteins. In this way about 30% of microsomal membrane proteins are protected by the phospholipid against the action of protease K.", "PMID": 435584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2853", "title": "Evidence that the renal response to volume expansion involves a blood-borne factor.", "content": "The effect of blood volume expansion in immature rats by blood from infants (J to J expansion) and mature animals (A to J) has been studied. A to J expansion results in an increased renal response to expansion which is greater than J to J, but not as great as when mature animals are expanded with blood from other matures (A to A) or pooled blood from infants (J to A). A to A and J to A expansions show no significant differences in renal responsiveness. The lack of an immature response is not due to differences in animal hydration since 2.5% volume expansion is on the flat part of dose response curve. Part of the scatter of the adult response is related to absolute levels of GFR which might indicate the existence of a filterable natriuretic factor or, alternatively, a dependence of renal responsiveness on filtered load. These results are interpreted to indicate that mature rats contain a natriuretic factor or an inhibitor of an antinatriuretic factor which is blood borne and is probably secreted in blood volume expanded rats.", "contents": "Evidence that the renal response to volume expansion involves a blood-borne factor. The effect of blood volume expansion in immature rats by blood from infants (J to J expansion) and mature animals (A to J) has been studied. A to J expansion results in an increased renal response to expansion which is greater than J to J, but not as great as when mature animals are expanded with blood from other matures (A to A) or pooled blood from infants (J to A). A to A and J to A expansions show no significant differences in renal responsiveness. The lack of an immature response is not due to differences in animal hydration since 2.5% volume expansion is on the flat part of dose response curve. Part of the scatter of the adult response is related to absolute levels of GFR which might indicate the existence of a filterable natriuretic factor or, alternatively, a dependence of renal responsiveness on filtered load. These results are interpreted to indicate that mature rats contain a natriuretic factor or an inhibitor of an antinatriuretic factor which is blood borne and is probably secreted in blood volume expanded rats.", "PMID": 435585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2854", "title": "Pyrimidine metabolism in erythrocytes of the newborn.", "content": "Activities of orotate phosphoribosyltransferase and orotidine-5'-phosphate decarboxylase were found to be significantly higher in erythrocytes from newborn infants than in erythrocytes from adults, and approximated those observed in patients with deficiency of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase. Enzyme activities were increased to a varying extent in patients with reticulocytosis. The results are discussed in relation to red cell age and stabilization of the enzymes by phosphoribosylpyrophosphate. Pyrimidine-5'-nucleotidase was assayed by a new radiochemical method involving thin-layer chromatography for separation of product from substrate. Enzyme activity was higher with orotidine monophosphate than with uridine monophosphate. The activity of this enzyme was similar in erythrocyte of newborns and adults.", "contents": "Pyrimidine metabolism in erythrocytes of the newborn. Activities of orotate phosphoribosyltransferase and orotidine-5'-phosphate decarboxylase were found to be significantly higher in erythrocytes from newborn infants than in erythrocytes from adults, and approximated those observed in patients with deficiency of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase. Enzyme activities were increased to a varying extent in patients with reticulocytosis. The results are discussed in relation to red cell age and stabilization of the enzymes by phosphoribosylpyrophosphate. Pyrimidine-5'-nucleotidase was assayed by a new radiochemical method involving thin-layer chromatography for separation of product from substrate. Enzyme activity was higher with orotidine monophosphate than with uridine monophosphate. The activity of this enzyme was similar in erythrocyte of newborns and adults.", "PMID": 435586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2855", "title": "The effects of theophylline on renal function in the premature newborn.", "content": "The effects of aminophylline on renal function in 10 premature infants with idiopathic apnea are evaluated. The percent increases in creatinine clearance (128 +/- 339%, mean +/- SD) and sodium clearance (196 +/- 304%, mean +/- SD) are variable while the percent increase in fractional sodium excretion (69 +/- 109%, mean +/- SD) is significant. This effect is postulated to be at the proximal tubule and may be modified by the effects of postnatal age and infusion of albumin. Gestational age, birth weight, heart disease, water and sodium intake and ventilatory support did not appear to influence the results. Hyponatremia is a potential consequence of theophylline therapy for apnea.", "contents": "The effects of theophylline on renal function in the premature newborn. The effects of aminophylline on renal function in 10 premature infants with idiopathic apnea are evaluated. The percent increases in creatinine clearance (128 +/- 339%, mean +/- SD) and sodium clearance (196 +/- 304%, mean +/- SD) are variable while the percent increase in fractional sodium excretion (69 +/- 109%, mean +/- SD) is significant. This effect is postulated to be at the proximal tubule and may be modified by the effects of postnatal age and infusion of albumin. Gestational age, birth weight, heart disease, water and sodium intake and ventilatory support did not appear to influence the results. Hyponatremia is a potential consequence of theophylline therapy for apnea.", "PMID": 435587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2856", "title": "Response of the organs of rabbits to feeding during the first days after birth.", "content": "An experiment described previously showed a large increase in weight and protein of the intestinal mucosa of suckling piglets during the first 24 h after birth. This did not take place in piglets that were starved. The results might have been partly due to the inclusion of protein molecules in the mucosa in process of absorption. Rabbits do not absorb large quantities of protein after birth, and the experiment has now been repeated on them. The gastrointestinal tract of suckled rabbits also grew rapidly in the first 24 h, but again not in those that were given only water, which is in line with the suggestion that colostrum contains a factor which stimulates the growth of the gastrointestinal tract. The brain gained weight in the suckled animals, due to incorporation of lipid and protein. It gained weight too in the starving rabbits, demonstrating its high priority for nutrients at a time when its growth velocity is at its peak.", "contents": "Response of the organs of rabbits to feeding during the first days after birth. An experiment described previously showed a large increase in weight and protein of the intestinal mucosa of suckling piglets during the first 24 h after birth. This did not take place in piglets that were starved. The results might have been partly due to the inclusion of protein molecules in the mucosa in process of absorption. Rabbits do not absorb large quantities of protein after birth, and the experiment has now been repeated on them. The gastrointestinal tract of suckled rabbits also grew rapidly in the first 24 h, but again not in those that were given only water, which is in line with the suggestion that colostrum contains a factor which stimulates the growth of the gastrointestinal tract. The brain gained weight in the suckled animals, due to incorporation of lipid and protein. It gained weight too in the starving rabbits, demonstrating its high priority for nutrients at a time when its growth velocity is at its peak.", "PMID": 435588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2857", "title": "Comparison of cardiovascular reflexes of the newborn and adult opossum.", "content": "Neural control of the cardiovascular system was compared in the newborn and adult opossum by measuring changes in blood pressure and heart rate following carotid arterial occlusion and vagal stimulation. The percent change in blood pressure of the newborn was not significantly different from that of the adult following these procedures. This would indicate that even though the newborn opossum is incompletely developed for some time after birth, its neural development was adequate for control of the cardiovascular system.", "contents": "Comparison of cardiovascular reflexes of the newborn and adult opossum. Neural control of the cardiovascular system was compared in the newborn and adult opossum by measuring changes in blood pressure and heart rate following carotid arterial occlusion and vagal stimulation. The percent change in blood pressure of the newborn was not significantly different from that of the adult following these procedures. This would indicate that even though the newborn opossum is incompletely developed for some time after birth, its neural development was adequate for control of the cardiovascular system.", "PMID": 435589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2858", "title": "Glucose tolerance tests in women with small-for-date fetuses and newborns.", "content": "Peroral glucose tolerance tests were performed in women with small-for-date fetuses and in controls with healthy fetuses in the 38th week of pregnancy, 2 days and 6 weeks after delivery. 2 h after the load of 50 g of glucose, the blood glucose level remained significantly higher in pregnant women with small-for-date fetuses. The other parameters followed did not exhibit any difference from the control group. Since this deviation disappeared very rapidly after delivery it may be supposed that it is caused by hormonal and other influences of the atypical conceptus and not by a primary derangement of maternal metabolism or by a disparate responsiveness of the maternal organism to pregnancy.", "contents": "Glucose tolerance tests in women with small-for-date fetuses and newborns. Peroral glucose tolerance tests were performed in women with small-for-date fetuses and in controls with healthy fetuses in the 38th week of pregnancy, 2 days and 6 weeks after delivery. 2 h after the load of 50 g of glucose, the blood glucose level remained significantly higher in pregnant women with small-for-date fetuses. The other parameters followed did not exhibit any difference from the control group. Since this deviation disappeared very rapidly after delivery it may be supposed that it is caused by hormonal and other influences of the atypical conceptus and not by a primary derangement of maternal metabolism or by a disparate responsiveness of the maternal organism to pregnancy.", "PMID": 435590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2859", "title": "Underlying disorders responsible for the neonatal deaths associated with low Apgar Scores.", "content": "Data from a large study were used to determine the frequency of fatal disorders associated with low Apgar scores. 5-min scores had the best correlation with mortality rates. Death rates were more than ten times greater with abnormal than with normal 5-min scores. This difference was only 3-fold for 1-min values. Amniotic fluid infections were responsible for nearly half of the deaths in preterm and 24% of the deaths in term neonates with 5-min Apgar scores 0--6. The respective values for disorders that cause antenatal hypoxia were 25 and 24% and for major congenital anomalies, 7 and 28%.", "contents": "Underlying disorders responsible for the neonatal deaths associated with low Apgar Scores. Data from a large study were used to determine the frequency of fatal disorders associated with low Apgar scores. 5-min scores had the best correlation with mortality rates. Death rates were more than ten times greater with abnormal than with normal 5-min scores. This difference was only 3-fold for 1-min values. Amniotic fluid infections were responsible for nearly half of the deaths in preterm and 24% of the deaths in term neonates with 5-min Apgar scores 0--6. The respective values for disorders that cause antenatal hypoxia were 25 and 24% and for major congenital anomalies, 7 and 28%.", "PMID": 435591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2860", "title": "Effect of hormones on the development of creatine kinase activity in rat skeletal muscle.", "content": "Various approaches have been used in order to determine whether or not a certain hormone is a stimulus for the development of the muscle-specific enzyme, creatine kinase. Both thyroxine and glucocorticoids can be considered as naturally occurring stimuli for the synthesis of creatine kinase. The maximum increase of creatine kinase activity after stimulation by glucocorticoids (about 25%) occurs between 5 and 7 days after birth. A single injection of thyroxine has virtually no effect during this period. However, when a pretreatment with thyroxine is given, cortisone acetate administration increases creatine kinase activity to about 155%. The effect of cortisone acetate is due to de novo synthesis of creatine kinase. The augmentation of the effect of cortisone acetate by thyroxine is dependent on DNA synthesis. Thyroxine administration apparently causes the formation of more competent muscle cells. The effects of both hormones are age-dependent. Thyroxine and cortisone acetate administration to fetuses can prematurely evoke to MM isoenzyme of creatine kinase. Both hormones probably play a role in the activation of the M gene during embryonic development. Sex hormones are able to influence neither creatine kinase activity nor muscle growth. However, castration of male rats immediately after birth causes an impairment of growth at older ages. The androgen production by the testes immediately after birth seems to be of main importance for body growth development. It can be concluded from these results that creatine kinase in muscle is under multiple hormonal control, just as is observed for a number of enzymes in other tissues.", "contents": "Effect of hormones on the development of creatine kinase activity in rat skeletal muscle. Various approaches have been used in order to determine whether or not a certain hormone is a stimulus for the development of the muscle-specific enzyme, creatine kinase. Both thyroxine and glucocorticoids can be considered as naturally occurring stimuli for the synthesis of creatine kinase. The maximum increase of creatine kinase activity after stimulation by glucocorticoids (about 25%) occurs between 5 and 7 days after birth. A single injection of thyroxine has virtually no effect during this period. However, when a pretreatment with thyroxine is given, cortisone acetate administration increases creatine kinase activity to about 155%. The effect of cortisone acetate is due to de novo synthesis of creatine kinase. The augmentation of the effect of cortisone acetate by thyroxine is dependent on DNA synthesis. Thyroxine administration apparently causes the formation of more competent muscle cells. The effects of both hormones are age-dependent. Thyroxine and cortisone acetate administration to fetuses can prematurely evoke to MM isoenzyme of creatine kinase. Both hormones probably play a role in the activation of the M gene during embryonic development. Sex hormones are able to influence neither creatine kinase activity nor muscle growth. However, castration of male rats immediately after birth causes an impairment of growth at older ages. The androgen production by the testes immediately after birth seems to be of main importance for body growth development. It can be concluded from these results that creatine kinase in muscle is under multiple hormonal control, just as is observed for a number of enzymes in other tissues.", "PMID": 435592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2861", "title": "Fetal thyrotoxicosis in utero.", "content": "A case of fetal thyrotoxicosis in utero in a boy with familial predisposition to thyrotoxicosis is reported. At 26 weeks of gestation fetal hyperkinesia and fetal tachycardia developed. This was preceded by a significant pathologic increase in long-acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) in the mother. The fetal hyperkinesia and tachycardia were considered to be signs of fetal thyrotoxicosis, possibly induced by placentally transferred LATS. The fetal thyrotoxicosis responded well to propylthiouracil given to the mother. After birth the boy developed slight signs of neonatal thyrotoxicosis although his serum thyroxine values increased analogous to those of his elder sister, who had presented classical neonatal thyrotoxicosis.", "contents": "Fetal thyrotoxicosis in utero. A case of fetal thyrotoxicosis in utero in a boy with familial predisposition to thyrotoxicosis is reported. At 26 weeks of gestation fetal hyperkinesia and fetal tachycardia developed. This was preceded by a significant pathologic increase in long-acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) in the mother. The fetal hyperkinesia and tachycardia were considered to be signs of fetal thyrotoxicosis, possibly induced by placentally transferred LATS. The fetal thyrotoxicosis responded well to propylthiouracil given to the mother. After birth the boy developed slight signs of neonatal thyrotoxicosis although his serum thyroxine values increased analogous to those of his elder sister, who had presented classical neonatal thyrotoxicosis.", "PMID": 435593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2862", "title": "Postnatal development of renal function in piglets: glomerular filtration rate, clearance of PAH and PAH extraction.", "content": "Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), estimated as clearance of inulin, and clearance of p-aminohippuric acid (CPAH) were measured in 32 unanaesthetized piglets 1--62 days of age. During this period of time, GFR increased from 0.27 to 0.59 ml/min/g kidney and CPAH increased from 1.02 to 1.72 ml/min/g kidney. At 8 weeks of age, GFR and CPAH equaled adult values. In addition, renal PAH extraction (EPAH) was estimated in 12 anaesthetized piglets aged 1--79 days. EPAH increased from 0.75 at birth to 0.86 (adult value) at 3 weeks of age. The result shows a postnatal increase in renal functions in piglets, but the development from birth to adult level was less pronounced than seen in other animal species.", "contents": "Postnatal development of renal function in piglets: glomerular filtration rate, clearance of PAH and PAH extraction. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), estimated as clearance of inulin, and clearance of p-aminohippuric acid (CPAH) were measured in 32 unanaesthetized piglets 1--62 days of age. During this period of time, GFR increased from 0.27 to 0.59 ml/min/g kidney and CPAH increased from 1.02 to 1.72 ml/min/g kidney. At 8 weeks of age, GFR and CPAH equaled adult values. In addition, renal PAH extraction (EPAH) was estimated in 12 anaesthetized piglets aged 1--79 days. EPAH increased from 0.75 at birth to 0.86 (adult value) at 3 weeks of age. The result shows a postnatal increase in renal functions in piglets, but the development from birth to adult level was less pronounced than seen in other animal species.", "PMID": 435594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2863", "title": "Secretory proteins in the perfused human placenta.", "content": "A relatively simple perfusion technique of human placenta has been applied to the study of secretory proteins. Preferential secretion into the maternal circulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), human chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and placental alkaline phosphatase has been demonstrated, contrasting with the bidirectional secretion of progesterone. Evidence is presented for the net synthesis of HCS during perfusion. The technique offers advantages in the study of synthesis and secretion of placental materials.", "contents": "Secretory proteins in the perfused human placenta. A relatively simple perfusion technique of human placenta has been applied to the study of secretory proteins. Preferential secretion into the maternal circulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), human chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and placental alkaline phosphatase has been demonstrated, contrasting with the bidirectional secretion of progesterone. Evidence is presented for the net synthesis of HCS during perfusion. The technique offers advantages in the study of synthesis and secretion of placental materials.", "PMID": 435595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2864", "title": "The response of adult rats weaned prematurely and normally to starvation.", "content": "Male rats were weaned normally (NW; day 30 after birth) or prematurely (PW; day 18) to a Purina Chow diet. Serum cholesterol levels and the activities of some enzymes of fatty acid and glucose metabolism were determined when the animals were 6 and 10 months old and, in the older group, also after 2 days of starvation. Blood cholesterol levels rose with age and at 10 months were higher in PW than NW rats. This difference disappeared after starvation. Hepatic pyruvate kinase (PK) activity was the same in fed NW and PW animals but was significantly higher in starved PW than NW rats. Hepatic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPcK) activity was lower in NW than in PW rats, but this difference disappeared on starvation. In white fat, starvation caused a fall in PEPcK activity in both groups. In general, the effect of starvation did not accentuate the differences between the two groups. However, PEPcK activity in white fat increased with age about fourfold.", "contents": "The response of adult rats weaned prematurely and normally to starvation. Male rats were weaned normally (NW; day 30 after birth) or prematurely (PW; day 18) to a Purina Chow diet. Serum cholesterol levels and the activities of some enzymes of fatty acid and glucose metabolism were determined when the animals were 6 and 10 months old and, in the older group, also after 2 days of starvation. Blood cholesterol levels rose with age and at 10 months were higher in PW than NW rats. This difference disappeared after starvation. Hepatic pyruvate kinase (PK) activity was the same in fed NW and PW animals but was significantly higher in starved PW than NW rats. Hepatic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPcK) activity was lower in NW than in PW rats, but this difference disappeared on starvation. In white fat, starvation caused a fall in PEPcK activity in both groups. In general, the effect of starvation did not accentuate the differences between the two groups. However, PEPcK activity in white fat increased with age about fourfold.", "PMID": 435596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2865", "title": "Synthesis of arachidonic acid in the human placenta in vitro.", "content": "The syntheses of arachidonic acid and total fatty acids were measured in human placentas at the end of the first trimester and at term using 14C-acetate in in vitro incorporation experiments. The rates of arachidonic acid synthesis were determined to be 0.70 (first trimester) and 0.64 (term) mumol/h/100 g of placental tissue. The calculated rates of total fatty acid synthesis amount to 0.5 (first trimester) and 0.6 (term) mumol palmitate-equivalents/h/100 g. The results suggest that the human placenta seems to be not dependent on maternal arachidonic acid. Near term the placenta even could be source of arachidonic acid.", "contents": "Synthesis of arachidonic acid in the human placenta in vitro. The syntheses of arachidonic acid and total fatty acids were measured in human placentas at the end of the first trimester and at term using 14C-acetate in in vitro incorporation experiments. The rates of arachidonic acid synthesis were determined to be 0.70 (first trimester) and 0.64 (term) mumol/h/100 g of placental tissue. The calculated rates of total fatty acid synthesis amount to 0.5 (first trimester) and 0.6 (term) mumol palmitate-equivalents/h/100 g. The results suggest that the human placenta seems to be not dependent on maternal arachidonic acid. Near term the placenta even could be source of arachidonic acid.", "PMID": 435597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2866", "title": "Enzyme immobilization by radiation-induced polymerization of hydrophobic glass-forming monomers at low temperatures.", "content": "Enzyme immobilization was studied by means of radiation-induced polymerization of hydrophobic glass-forming monomers at low temperatures. The polymerized hydrophobic composite was generally obtained in microspheric form. Enzymatic activity showed little decrease with repeated use in these systems. The particle size of the microsphere increased with increasing monomer concentration, and activity yield had a maximum at an optimum monomer concentration. Immobilization by copolymerization of hydrophilic and hydrophobic comonomers was also investigated and a maximum activity yield was found at a certain monomer concentration. A model scheme for immobilization at low temperatures was proposed and discussed.", "contents": "Enzyme immobilization by radiation-induced polymerization of hydrophobic glass-forming monomers at low temperatures. Enzyme immobilization was studied by means of radiation-induced polymerization of hydrophobic glass-forming monomers at low temperatures. The polymerized hydrophobic composite was generally obtained in microspheric form. Enzymatic activity showed little decrease with repeated use in these systems. The particle size of the microsphere increased with increasing monomer concentration, and activity yield had a maximum at an optimum monomer concentration. Immobilization by copolymerization of hydrophilic and hydrophobic comonomers was also investigated and a maximum activity yield was found at a certain monomer concentration. A model scheme for immobilization at low temperatures was proposed and discussed.", "PMID": 435616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2867", "title": "[Reactions of neurons in the dental projection area of the rabbit sensomotor cortex to photic, acoustic and painful stimulation of the dental pulp].", "content": "In experiments on unrestrained rabbits interactions of sound (tone, click), light and pain excitation occurring during stimulation of the dental pulp in the neurons of the cortical sensomotor zone, in the area of representation of the dental afferents were studied by the microelectrode method. It was shown that bi- and polysensor convergence of excitation is realized in the cells of this area. It is suggested that convergence of excitation underlies the mechanisms of formation of the integral systemic pain reaction during stimulation of the dental receptors.", "contents": "[Reactions of neurons in the dental projection area of the rabbit sensomotor cortex to photic, acoustic and painful stimulation of the dental pulp]. In experiments on unrestrained rabbits interactions of sound (tone, click), light and pain excitation occurring during stimulation of the dental pulp in the neurons of the cortical sensomotor zone, in the area of representation of the dental afferents were studied by the microelectrode method. It was shown that bi- and polysensor convergence of excitation is realized in the cells of this area. It is suggested that convergence of excitation underlies the mechanisms of formation of the integral systemic pain reaction during stimulation of the dental receptors.", "PMID": 435617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2868", "title": "[Reaction of bone marrow colony-forming cells in irradiated mice to phlogogenic factors].", "content": "The experiments on irradiated mice (600 and 800 r) demonstrated that under the influence of flogogenic factors the quantity of colonies in the spleen increases and their morphological structures change. It is suggested that under the action of the damaging agent the \"hypothetic factor\" which causes the pointed changes, is formed in the skin.", "contents": "[Reaction of bone marrow colony-forming cells in irradiated mice to phlogogenic factors]. The experiments on irradiated mice (600 and 800 r) demonstrated that under the influence of flogogenic factors the quantity of colonies in the spleen increases and their morphological structures change. It is suggested that under the action of the damaging agent the \"hypothetic factor\" which causes the pointed changes, is formed in the skin.", "PMID": 435618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2869", "title": "[Effect of vagotomy on permeability processes in the structural components of rat liver].", "content": "The method of intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to study permeability by sodium fluoresceine of the structural components of the rat liver 7,21 and 60 days after bilateral subphrenic vagotomy. It was found that vagotomy resulted in a permeability rise both of the liver microvessels and hepatocyte plasma membranes. Later the temporal indices return to the initial levels.", "contents": "[Effect of vagotomy on permeability processes in the structural components of rat liver]. The method of intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to study permeability by sodium fluoresceine of the structural components of the rat liver 7,21 and 60 days after bilateral subphrenic vagotomy. It was found that vagotomy resulted in a permeability rise both of the liver microvessels and hepatocyte plasma membranes. Later the temporal indices return to the initial levels.", "PMID": 435619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2870", "title": "[Hemodynamic component in cerebral compensatory processes following unilateral exclusion of the somatosensory cortex].", "content": "In experiments on anesthetised and awake cats the dynamics of the cerebral blood flow was studied by the thermoelectric method in one hemisphere in experimental lesion of the somatosensory zone of the opposite one. Temporary exclusion of the cortical area by cold produced evident hemodynamic changes, i. e. a two-phase vasoreaction and an initial blood flow decrease followed by a prolonged increase of blood supply, in the other hemisphere. Analogous vasoreactions were seen on unilateral extirpation of the cortical layer of the somatosensory zone, as well. Such vasoreactions indicate enhanced activity of the cortical structures in the intact hemisphere and may be considered as a compensatory reaction to the local lesion of certain cortical areas.", "contents": "[Hemodynamic component in cerebral compensatory processes following unilateral exclusion of the somatosensory cortex]. In experiments on anesthetised and awake cats the dynamics of the cerebral blood flow was studied by the thermoelectric method in one hemisphere in experimental lesion of the somatosensory zone of the opposite one. Temporary exclusion of the cortical area by cold produced evident hemodynamic changes, i. e. a two-phase vasoreaction and an initial blood flow decrease followed by a prolonged increase of blood supply, in the other hemisphere. Analogous vasoreactions were seen on unilateral extirpation of the cortical layer of the somatosensory zone, as well. Such vasoreactions indicate enhanced activity of the cortical structures in the intact hemisphere and may be considered as a compensatory reaction to the local lesion of certain cortical areas.", "PMID": 435620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2871", "title": "[Mechanism of the antiexudative action of heparin].", "content": "The skin inflammation was induced by xylol application in experiments on rats. Exogenous and endogenous hyperheparinemia was found not to influence the dynamics of microcirculatory changes in the inflammatory area at the onset of its development, vascular permeability being significantly decreased. It is suggested that decreased vascular permeability plays an important role in the mechanism of antiexudative heparin action.", "contents": "[Mechanism of the antiexudative action of heparin]. The skin inflammation was induced by xylol application in experiments on rats. Exogenous and endogenous hyperheparinemia was found not to influence the dynamics of microcirculatory changes in the inflammatory area at the onset of its development, vascular permeability being significantly decreased. It is suggested that decreased vascular permeability plays an important role in the mechanism of antiexudative heparin action.", "PMID": 435621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2872", "title": "[Monosynaptic reflexes of the cat spinal cord during the development of insulin hypoglycemia].", "content": "Insulin-induced hypoglycemia caused depression of rhythmic monosynaptic EPSP motoneurons of the lumbar cord in acute experiments on narcotized and spinal cats. It was demonstrated that growing depression of monosynaptic transmission was associated with the exhaustion of mediator operative fraction and not with any pre- or postsynaptic delay or inhibition over a period of initial hypoglycemia when the sugar content in the blood fell to the level of 50--60 mg%. The function disturbance of postsynaptic formations of monosynaptic reflex arc of spinal cord occured in more advanced hypoglycemia.", "contents": "[Monosynaptic reflexes of the cat spinal cord during the development of insulin hypoglycemia]. Insulin-induced hypoglycemia caused depression of rhythmic monosynaptic EPSP motoneurons of the lumbar cord in acute experiments on narcotized and spinal cats. It was demonstrated that growing depression of monosynaptic transmission was associated with the exhaustion of mediator operative fraction and not with any pre- or postsynaptic delay or inhibition over a period of initial hypoglycemia when the sugar content in the blood fell to the level of 50--60 mg%. The function disturbance of postsynaptic formations of monosynaptic reflex arc of spinal cord occured in more advanced hypoglycemia.", "PMID": 435622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2873", "title": "[Multiple forms of DNA-ase activity in the nuclei of spleen lymphocytes].", "content": "The nuclei of spleen lymphocytes showed nuclease activity becoming manifest under conditions optimal for different types of DNA-ase (DNA-ase I, DNA-ase II, micrococcal nuclease and Ca, Mg-dependent endonuclease). No diversity of nuclease activity was found in the liver or kidney nuclei. A high nuclease activity in the lymphocyte nuclei provides for a deeper endonucleolysis of the lymphocyte chromatin as compared to that in the liver nuclei. The variety of nucleic activity and more advanced chromatin endonucleolysis in the spleen lymphocyte nuclei may be associated with rapid cell renewal of the lymphocyte pool in lymphoid organs and with necessity for autolysis of degraded lymphocyte genome. It may also ensure the somatomutagenic mechanism of diverse V-genes and of V- and C-gene combination.", "contents": "[Multiple forms of DNA-ase activity in the nuclei of spleen lymphocytes]. The nuclei of spleen lymphocytes showed nuclease activity becoming manifest under conditions optimal for different types of DNA-ase (DNA-ase I, DNA-ase II, micrococcal nuclease and Ca, Mg-dependent endonuclease). No diversity of nuclease activity was found in the liver or kidney nuclei. A high nuclease activity in the lymphocyte nuclei provides for a deeper endonucleolysis of the lymphocyte chromatin as compared to that in the liver nuclei. The variety of nucleic activity and more advanced chromatin endonucleolysis in the spleen lymphocyte nuclei may be associated with rapid cell renewal of the lymphocyte pool in lymphoid organs and with necessity for autolysis of degraded lymphocyte genome. It may also ensure the somatomutagenic mechanism of diverse V-genes and of V- and C-gene combination.", "PMID": 435623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2874", "title": "[Relation of the ultrastructural organization of mouse mammary gland cancer to its ability to metastasize].", "content": "A quantitative ultrastructural investigation of cancer in mice mammary glands and of its metastases to the lungs was carried out. It was established that in tumors showing no metastatic spreading in experiment the area of membrane surface of the endoplasmic reticulum and the number of bound ribosomes are greater than those in tumor spreading metastases. At the same time the number of ribosomes organized into polysomes is higher in the metastasized tumors. The comparison of the tumors with their metastases revealed differences in the structure of the mitochondrial apparatus: the surface area of cristae is larger in the metastatic foci. The evidence obtained shows that tumors spreading metastases have a lower level of cellular differentiation. The primary and metastatic foci do not exhibit any difference in the level of differentiation.", "contents": "[Relation of the ultrastructural organization of mouse mammary gland cancer to its ability to metastasize]. A quantitative ultrastructural investigation of cancer in mice mammary glands and of its metastases to the lungs was carried out. It was established that in tumors showing no metastatic spreading in experiment the area of membrane surface of the endoplasmic reticulum and the number of bound ribosomes are greater than those in tumor spreading metastases. At the same time the number of ribosomes organized into polysomes is higher in the metastasized tumors. The comparison of the tumors with their metastases revealed differences in the structure of the mitochondrial apparatus: the surface area of cristae is larger in the metastatic foci. The evidence obtained shows that tumors spreading metastases have a lower level of cellular differentiation. The primary and metastatic foci do not exhibit any difference in the level of differentiation.", "PMID": 435624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2875", "title": "[Radiosensitivity of colony-forming units of dog bone marrow in agar cultures].", "content": "Radiosensitivity of the bone-marrow colony-forming cells was determined by a modified method of hemopoietic cells cloning in vivo in semihard agar gel in diffusion chambers. Do for the commited precursor cells of granulopoiesis (CFUc) was 144 +/- 14.8 rad (n = 0.8), and Do for the precursor cells forming \"stellate\" colonies of fibroblast-like cells (PFUf) was 468 +/- 35.8 rad (n == 0.9). A conclusion was drawn that PFUf were referred to the class of stromal precursors of the hemopoietic organs. This system can be applied for a simultaneous study of the hemopoietic and stromal precursor cells in dogs.", "contents": "[Radiosensitivity of colony-forming units of dog bone marrow in agar cultures]. Radiosensitivity of the bone-marrow colony-forming cells was determined by a modified method of hemopoietic cells cloning in vivo in semihard agar gel in diffusion chambers. Do for the commited precursor cells of granulopoiesis (CFUc) was 144 +/- 14.8 rad (n = 0.8), and Do for the precursor cells forming \"stellate\" colonies of fibroblast-like cells (PFUf) was 468 +/- 35.8 rad (n == 0.9). A conclusion was drawn that PFUf were referred to the class of stromal precursors of the hemopoietic organs. This system can be applied for a simultaneous study of the hemopoietic and stromal precursor cells in dogs.", "PMID": 435625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2876", "title": "[Effect of tissue macrophage destruction products on hematopoietic stem cells].", "content": "Products of mouse peritoneal macrophage destruction (PMD) obtained by aseptic freezing-thawing of the cells, repeated thrice, were found to elicit in syngeneic mice injected with PMD intraperitoneally an increase of CFUs count in the hemopoietic bone marrow tissue and the spleen, as demonstrated by the Till and McCullooch technique. This proved to be a true increase since the transplatned stem cell fraction sorbed by the recipient's spleen was relatively lower in donor mice given PMD than in the control. Although PMD caused an increase of both erythropoietic (E) and granulocytopoietic-monocytic (G) colonies number, the E/G ratio was decreased; one of the mechanisms of the described effect could be the influence of PMD on the hemopoiesis-inducing microenvironment, as the same effects were obtained in mice injected repeatedly with PMD prior to the transplantation of bone marrow tissue of normal donors. Other possible mechanisms of these effects were analyzed, with consideration to the fact that in experiments with preincubation of bone marrow tissue with PMD prior to injection to the lethally irradiated mice no direct stimulating influence of PMD on the stem cell could be revealed.", "contents": "[Effect of tissue macrophage destruction products on hematopoietic stem cells]. Products of mouse peritoneal macrophage destruction (PMD) obtained by aseptic freezing-thawing of the cells, repeated thrice, were found to elicit in syngeneic mice injected with PMD intraperitoneally an increase of CFUs count in the hemopoietic bone marrow tissue and the spleen, as demonstrated by the Till and McCullooch technique. This proved to be a true increase since the transplatned stem cell fraction sorbed by the recipient's spleen was relatively lower in donor mice given PMD than in the control. Although PMD caused an increase of both erythropoietic (E) and granulocytopoietic-monocytic (G) colonies number, the E/G ratio was decreased; one of the mechanisms of the described effect could be the influence of PMD on the hemopoiesis-inducing microenvironment, as the same effects were obtained in mice injected repeatedly with PMD prior to the transplantation of bone marrow tissue of normal donors. Other possible mechanisms of these effects were analyzed, with consideration to the fact that in experiments with preincubation of bone marrow tissue with PMD prior to injection to the lethally irradiated mice no direct stimulating influence of PMD on the stem cell could be revealed.", "PMID": 435626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2877", "title": "[Binuclear cells in rat liver during repair regeneration of the organ].", "content": "At early stages after partial hepatectomy (17 hours after the operation) binuclear cells become involved in proliferation in much lesser numbers, and 37 and 53 hours after the operation--in much greater numbers relative to their part in the population. New formation of binuclear cells (the presence of labeled binuclear cells 20 hours after the thymidine H3 administration) was the most intensive at the early regeneration stages (16--36 hours after the operation), when about 20% of mitoses are acytokinetic and lead to the formation of binuclear cells. At later periods only 8% of mitoses result in formation of binuclear cells.", "contents": "[Binuclear cells in rat liver during repair regeneration of the organ]. At early stages after partial hepatectomy (17 hours after the operation) binuclear cells become involved in proliferation in much lesser numbers, and 37 and 53 hours after the operation--in much greater numbers relative to their part in the population. New formation of binuclear cells (the presence of labeled binuclear cells 20 hours after the thymidine H3 administration) was the most intensive at the early regeneration stages (16--36 hours after the operation), when about 20% of mitoses are acytokinetic and lead to the formation of binuclear cells. At later periods only 8% of mitoses result in formation of binuclear cells.", "PMID": 435627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2878", "title": "[Neuroblast differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord in the 1st half of prenatal ontogenesis].", "content": "The processes of neuroblasts differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord in the first half of antenatal ontogenesis were studied by the Golgi method. The neuron development was traced from the neuroepithelial matrix cells to the maturing neurons. A possible role of a special neuroblast outgrowth as a channel for its nucleus migration to the definite typological position of the mature neuron is suggested.", "contents": "[Neuroblast differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord in the 1st half of prenatal ontogenesis]. The processes of neuroblasts differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord in the first half of antenatal ontogenesis were studied by the Golgi method. The neuron development was traced from the neuroepithelial matrix cells to the maturing neurons. A possible role of a special neuroblast outgrowth as a channel for its nucleus migration to the definite typological position of the mature neuron is suggested.", "PMID": 435628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2879", "title": "[Microcirculatory bed of serous membranes in rats with spontaneous genetic hypertension].", "content": "The microvasculature (MV) of serous membranes was compared in rats with spontaneous genetic hypertension (SHR) and in normotensive Wistar rats. The study showed that in hypertension MV lesions had a systemic distribution, as structural changes were present in every MV component (arterioles, precapillaries, capillaries, postcapillaries, venules, lymphatic capillaries, and postcapillaries, nerve fibers); these lesions were generalized, as similar alterations could be found in all serous membranes studied. A close resemblance observed between MV of serous membranes in SHR and in patients who died of hypertensive disease confirms the concept suggesting the existence of MV changes which were relatively specific for hypertension, along with those of the nonspecific nature. Specificity of the hypertensive process is manifested in severe vascular lesions of a peculiar type, while the nonspecific phenomena are represented by a combination of intravascular, perivascular, and minimal vascular alterations represented by a universal MV response to various stresses.", "contents": "[Microcirculatory bed of serous membranes in rats with spontaneous genetic hypertension]. The microvasculature (MV) of serous membranes was compared in rats with spontaneous genetic hypertension (SHR) and in normotensive Wistar rats. The study showed that in hypertension MV lesions had a systemic distribution, as structural changes were present in every MV component (arterioles, precapillaries, capillaries, postcapillaries, venules, lymphatic capillaries, and postcapillaries, nerve fibers); these lesions were generalized, as similar alterations could be found in all serous membranes studied. A close resemblance observed between MV of serous membranes in SHR and in patients who died of hypertensive disease confirms the concept suggesting the existence of MV changes which were relatively specific for hypertension, along with those of the nonspecific nature. Specificity of the hypertensive process is manifested in severe vascular lesions of a peculiar type, while the nonspecific phenomena are represented by a combination of intravascular, perivascular, and minimal vascular alterations represented by a universal MV response to various stresses.", "PMID": 435629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2880", "title": "[Ultrastructure of endocrine cells in the gastric fundal glands at different seasons of the year].", "content": "Endocrine cells of gastric glands of Citellus erythrogenus Brandt were studied during various seasons of the year by electron microscopy. ECL, EC, D and D1 cells having different structure of granules were detected. The slightly changed, weakly functioning cells as well as the cells of different alteration degree (up to destructing) were found in hibernating rodents. The presence of actively functioning EC-cells over this period confirms an opinion concerning the influence of peripheral serotonin on the hibernation mechanism. On the 3d--4th day of awakening pronounced activation of endocrine cells, their rejuvenation and normalization of cell ultrastructure, completed two weeks after awakening, were noted.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of endocrine cells in the gastric fundal glands at different seasons of the year]. Endocrine cells of gastric glands of Citellus erythrogenus Brandt were studied during various seasons of the year by electron microscopy. ECL, EC, D and D1 cells having different structure of granules were detected. The slightly changed, weakly functioning cells as well as the cells of different alteration degree (up to destructing) were found in hibernating rodents. The presence of actively functioning EC-cells over this period confirms an opinion concerning the influence of peripheral serotonin on the hibernation mechanism. On the 3d--4th day of awakening pronounced activation of endocrine cells, their rejuvenation and normalization of cell ultrastructure, completed two weeks after awakening, were noted.", "PMID": 435630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2881", "title": "[Heterogeneity in the distribution of cytochrome P-450 in the liver lobule revealed on exposure to carbon tetrachloride].", "content": "A comparative study was made of cytochrome P-450 content and the histological pattern of the development and elimination of necrotic foci arising in the liver of CBA mice after inhalation of CCl4 vapour. Two hours after the inhalation the content of cytochrome P-450 was reduced by a factor of 1.7, and in 17, 24, and 48 hours--by a factor of 6. The necrotized area was about 40% of the total liver lobe area. It is supposed that the selective (CCl4) damage of the central lobe hepatocytes was related to the marked differences between the cytochrome P-450 content in different areas of the lobe.", "contents": "[Heterogeneity in the distribution of cytochrome P-450 in the liver lobule revealed on exposure to carbon tetrachloride]. A comparative study was made of cytochrome P-450 content and the histological pattern of the development and elimination of necrotic foci arising in the liver of CBA mice after inhalation of CCl4 vapour. Two hours after the inhalation the content of cytochrome P-450 was reduced by a factor of 1.7, and in 17, 24, and 48 hours--by a factor of 6. The necrotized area was about 40% of the total liver lobe area. It is supposed that the selective (CCl4) damage of the central lobe hepatocytes was related to the marked differences between the cytochrome P-450 content in different areas of the lobe.", "PMID": 435631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2882", "title": "[Ultrastructural changes in loose connective tissue histiocytes in dehydration and starvation].", "content": "Changes in the parameters of the volumetric fractions of the main cytoplasmic organellae were studied in the subcutaneous connective of albino rats subjected to experimental dehydration and starvation. There were some common features in the histiocytes reaction under these conditions, i. e. hypertrophy of the lysosomal apparatus and cell \"infiltration\" with lipids. At the same time the following differences are emphasized: dehydration caused an increase of the volumetric mitochondrial fractions and of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and starvation of the phagosomal fraction.", "contents": "[Ultrastructural changes in loose connective tissue histiocytes in dehydration and starvation]. Changes in the parameters of the volumetric fractions of the main cytoplasmic organellae were studied in the subcutaneous connective of albino rats subjected to experimental dehydration and starvation. There were some common features in the histiocytes reaction under these conditions, i. e. hypertrophy of the lysosomal apparatus and cell \"infiltration\" with lipids. At the same time the following differences are emphasized: dehydration caused an increase of the volumetric mitochondrial fractions and of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and starvation of the phagosomal fraction.", "PMID": 435632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2883", "title": "[Change in the permeability of vessels in the microcirculatory bed of skeletal muscles in conditions of working hyperemia].", "content": "Permeability of m. quadriceps femoris and m. gastrocnemius mimicrocirculatory bed of albino rats was studied by fluorescent biomicroscopy at rest and under work hyperemia. Fluorescein-labeled bovine globulin (FBG) was used as an indicator of permeability alteration. Quantitative fluorescent analysis was carried out on a microspectrofluorimeter. In work hypermia the FBG concentration in the muscle exceeded such at rest by 40--45%; this evidenced an increased transendothelial transport. The results of the experiments on the measurement of FBG concentration about a single capillary suggested that the microcirculatory bed permeability increased under work hyperemia.", "contents": "[Change in the permeability of vessels in the microcirculatory bed of skeletal muscles in conditions of working hyperemia]. Permeability of m. quadriceps femoris and m. gastrocnemius mimicrocirculatory bed of albino rats was studied by fluorescent biomicroscopy at rest and under work hyperemia. Fluorescein-labeled bovine globulin (FBG) was used as an indicator of permeability alteration. Quantitative fluorescent analysis was carried out on a microspectrofluorimeter. In work hypermia the FBG concentration in the muscle exceeded such at rest by 40--45%; this evidenced an increased transendothelial transport. The results of the experiments on the measurement of FBG concentration about a single capillary suggested that the microcirculatory bed permeability increased under work hyperemia.", "PMID": 435633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2884", "title": "Interference of levamisole with inhibition of E-rosette formation by Hodgkin's disease and systemic lupus erythematosus cytotoxic sera.", "content": "A new system has been used to test the influence of levamisole on T-cell function. Evidence has been produced that prior exposure to the drug \"protects\" normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes from the inhibition that cytotoxic sera from patients with Hodgkin's disease and systemic lupus erythematosus exhibit on their E-rosette-forming capacity. Also, damage of this T-cell function already induced by Hodgkin's sera may be partially corrected.", "contents": "Interference of levamisole with inhibition of E-rosette formation by Hodgkin's disease and systemic lupus erythematosus cytotoxic sera. A new system has been used to test the influence of levamisole on T-cell function. Evidence has been produced that prior exposure to the drug \"protects\" normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes from the inhibition that cytotoxic sera from patients with Hodgkin's disease and systemic lupus erythematosus exhibit on their E-rosette-forming capacity. Also, damage of this T-cell function already induced by Hodgkin's sera may be partially corrected.", "PMID": 435634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2885", "title": "Hematin administration to an adult with lead intoxication.", "content": "Lead poisoning and acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) may exhibit similar neurologic manifestations, and they have in common elevated excretion of urinary aminolevulinic acid (ALA). Despite their similarities, the possible pathophysiologic connection between AIP and lead poisoning in not known. Because intravenous hematin administration has produced biochemical improvement in AIP, a hematin trial in lead intoxication was of interest with respect to some of the heme metabolism abnormalities observed in the condition. Significant diminution of urinary ALA and coproporphyrin excretion occurred in association with intravenous hematin administration.", "contents": "Hematin administration to an adult with lead intoxication. Lead poisoning and acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) may exhibit similar neurologic manifestations, and they have in common elevated excretion of urinary aminolevulinic acid (ALA). Despite their similarities, the possible pathophysiologic connection between AIP and lead poisoning in not known. Because intravenous hematin administration has produced biochemical improvement in AIP, a hematin trial in lead intoxication was of interest with respect to some of the heme metabolism abnormalities observed in the condition. Significant diminution of urinary ALA and coproporphyrin excretion occurred in association with intravenous hematin administration.", "PMID": 435635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2886", "title": "Treatment of refractory splenomegaly in myeloproliferative disease by splenic artery infusion.", "content": "Five patients in the blastic phase of chronic granulocytic leukemia with massive splenomegaly were treated by intraarterial splenic artery infusion of cytosine arabinoside. All patients had massive splenomegaly associated with pain and/or hypersplenism and were refractory to previous therapy. All 5 patients demonstrated responses to treatment, with reduction in spleen size as well as symptomatic relief. Systemic toxicity was minimal in 4 of the 5 patients.", "contents": "Treatment of refractory splenomegaly in myeloproliferative disease by splenic artery infusion. Five patients in the blastic phase of chronic granulocytic leukemia with massive splenomegaly were treated by intraarterial splenic artery infusion of cytosine arabinoside. All patients had massive splenomegaly associated with pain and/or hypersplenism and were refractory to previous therapy. All 5 patients demonstrated responses to treatment, with reduction in spleen size as well as symptomatic relief. Systemic toxicity was minimal in 4 of the 5 patients.", "PMID": 435637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2887", "title": "Identification of megakaryocytes, macrophages, and eosinophils in colonies of human bone marrow containing neurtophilic granulocytes and erythroblasts.", "content": "Pluripotent hemopoietic progenitors in human bone marrow can be identified by their ability to give rise in culture to colonies that contain more than one lineage of hemopoietic differentiation. Growth of these mixed colonies is supported by media conditioned by leukocytes in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA-LCM) and erythropoietin. They can be readily recognized by direct microscopic observation because of their composition of colorless cells and cells with a red appearance typical for hemoglobin. Seventy-three individual mixed colonies from 6 individuals were prepared by cytocentrifugation for further cytological examination. In addition to neutrophilic granulocytes and erythroblasts, megakaryocytes were present in 16 of the 73 colonies, as identified by positive reaction for acid phosphatase. Macrophages were found in 24 and eosinophils in 6 of the 73 colonies.", "contents": "Identification of megakaryocytes, macrophages, and eosinophils in colonies of human bone marrow containing neurtophilic granulocytes and erythroblasts. Pluripotent hemopoietic progenitors in human bone marrow can be identified by their ability to give rise in culture to colonies that contain more than one lineage of hemopoietic differentiation. Growth of these mixed colonies is supported by media conditioned by leukocytes in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA-LCM) and erythropoietin. They can be readily recognized by direct microscopic observation because of their composition of colorless cells and cells with a red appearance typical for hemoglobin. Seventy-three individual mixed colonies from 6 individuals were prepared by cytocentrifugation for further cytological examination. In addition to neutrophilic granulocytes and erythroblasts, megakaryocytes were present in 16 of the 73 colonies, as identified by positive reaction for acid phosphatase. Macrophages were found in 24 and eosinophils in 6 of the 73 colonies.", "PMID": 435638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2888", "title": "Comparison of sizes and shapes of tumor cells in plasma cell leukemia and plasma cell myeloma.", "content": "Thirteen cases of plasma cell leukemia and 13 cases of nonleukemia plasma cell myeloma were compared with respect to the sizes and shapes of tumor cells in marrow smears. It was demonstrated that the leukemia cells were elongated or ovoid and significantly smaller in size, whereas the myeloma cells were generally more nearly round and larger.", "contents": "Comparison of sizes and shapes of tumor cells in plasma cell leukemia and plasma cell myeloma. Thirteen cases of plasma cell leukemia and 13 cases of nonleukemia plasma cell myeloma were compared with respect to the sizes and shapes of tumor cells in marrow smears. It was demonstrated that the leukemia cells were elongated or ovoid and significantly smaller in size, whereas the myeloma cells were generally more nearly round and larger.", "PMID": 435639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2889", "title": "Arsenic-induced bone marrow toxicity: ultrastructural and electron-probe analysis.", "content": "A patient with severe arsenic poisoning that resulted in marked peripheral blood and bone marrow abnormalities, including megaloblastic erythropoiesis experienced many of the previously reported hematologic complications of arsenic poisoning: leukopenia, granulocytopenia, absolute eosinophilia, and profound anemia. In this study we report an ultrastructural and electron-probe analysis of the bone marrow. Although megaloblastic anemia associated with arsenic poisoning has been described rarely, the presence of arsenic in the local bone marrow milieu has not been demonstrated previously. The ultrastructural features of arsenic-induced bone marrow toxicity are similar to those described in other dyserythropoietic states and include marked nuclear aberrations involving shape, chromatin distribution, and nuclear envelope. Using the technique of energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (electron probe) we demonstrated arsenic in bone marrow spicules; this supports the contention that arsenic can cause megaloblastic anemia. We suggest that this technique may be a useful tool in further studies that attempt to explore the mechanism of arsenic-induced hematologic toxicity. Finally, we suggest that arsenic has a direct toxic effect on DNA synthesis that results in marked disturbances of nuclear division. We recommend that the most appropriate screening procedure to evaluate possible arsenic poisoning is tissue arsenic measurements (hair and nails) rather than 24-hr urinary measurements.", "contents": "Arsenic-induced bone marrow toxicity: ultrastructural and electron-probe analysis. A patient with severe arsenic poisoning that resulted in marked peripheral blood and bone marrow abnormalities, including megaloblastic erythropoiesis experienced many of the previously reported hematologic complications of arsenic poisoning: leukopenia, granulocytopenia, absolute eosinophilia, and profound anemia. In this study we report an ultrastructural and electron-probe analysis of the bone marrow. Although megaloblastic anemia associated with arsenic poisoning has been described rarely, the presence of arsenic in the local bone marrow milieu has not been demonstrated previously. The ultrastructural features of arsenic-induced bone marrow toxicity are similar to those described in other dyserythropoietic states and include marked nuclear aberrations involving shape, chromatin distribution, and nuclear envelope. Using the technique of energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (electron probe) we demonstrated arsenic in bone marrow spicules; this supports the contention that arsenic can cause megaloblastic anemia. We suggest that this technique may be a useful tool in further studies that attempt to explore the mechanism of arsenic-induced hematologic toxicity. Finally, we suggest that arsenic has a direct toxic effect on DNA synthesis that results in marked disturbances of nuclear division. We recommend that the most appropriate screening procedure to evaluate possible arsenic poisoning is tissue arsenic measurements (hair and nails) rather than 24-hr urinary measurements.", "PMID": 435641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2890", "title": "Protease activity in the human erythrocyte: localization to the cell membrane.", "content": "Proteolytic activity in the mature human erythrocyte was localized to the cell membrane. This activity, which could not be ascribed to contaminating leukocytes in the suspension, was totally absent from the soluble portion of the cell and was more active against hemoglobin subunits than against tetrameric hemoglobin molecules. Pulse-chase experiments confirmed that the membrane proteolytic activity was more active in degrading beta chains that alpha chains. The activity could be extracted from erythrocyte cell membranes, but not from membrane-free hemolysate, by exposure to 0.75-M KSCN. The activity of the protease was dependent on time and temperature and did not require ATP or an energy-generating system for activity.", "contents": "Protease activity in the human erythrocyte: localization to the cell membrane. Proteolytic activity in the mature human erythrocyte was localized to the cell membrane. This activity, which could not be ascribed to contaminating leukocytes in the suspension, was totally absent from the soluble portion of the cell and was more active against hemoglobin subunits than against tetrameric hemoglobin molecules. Pulse-chase experiments confirmed that the membrane proteolytic activity was more active in degrading beta chains that alpha chains. The activity could be extracted from erythrocyte cell membranes, but not from membrane-free hemolysate, by exposure to 0.75-M KSCN. The activity of the protease was dependent on time and temperature and did not require ATP or an energy-generating system for activity.", "PMID": 435645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2891", "title": "Granulocyte function during lithium therapy.", "content": "Random migration, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and bactericidal ability of neutrophils from 5 patients receiving lithium carbonate were compared with those of neutrophils from healthy donors. These cells functioned normally in all respects. Neither sera from patients receiving lithium carbonate nor the addition of lithium chloride to control cells in vitro significantly altered their functional capacity. These findings suggest that neutrophil function in patients receiving lithium therapy is preserved, and they support the potential utility of this drug as a leukopoietic agent in neutropenic states.", "contents": "Granulocyte function during lithium therapy. Random migration, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and bactericidal ability of neutrophils from 5 patients receiving lithium carbonate were compared with those of neutrophils from healthy donors. These cells functioned normally in all respects. Neither sera from patients receiving lithium carbonate nor the addition of lithium chloride to control cells in vitro significantly altered their functional capacity. These findings suggest that neutrophil function in patients receiving lithium therapy is preserved, and they support the potential utility of this drug as a leukopoietic agent in neutropenic states.", "PMID": 435646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2892", "title": "The relationship of hemoglobin synthesis to erythroid colony and burst formation.", "content": "We have demonstrated that the cyclohexanone method for the extraction of hematin can be used to measure hemoglobin synthesis induced by erythropoietin (epo) in mouse bone marrow cells cultured in medium containing methyl cellulose. The time course of hemoglobin synthesis by mouse marrow cells showed two effects due to epo: an increase in hemoglobin synthesis at day 2, which corresponded to the formation of small erythroid colonies resulting from the CFU-E (colony-forming unit, erythroid), and a very large increase in hemoglobin synthesis, which was maximal at days 7-8 and corresponded to the formation of large erythroid colonies (bursts) resulting from the BFU-E (burst-forming unit, erythroid). The epo dose-response curves for CFU-E colony counts and day-2 hemoglobin synthesis were similar, and the cell-number-response curves for these two paramaters were parallel. The epo dose-response curve for BFU-E colony counts reached a plateau at an epo concentration between 3 and 5 units/ml, whereas the dose-response curve for 6-8-day hemoglobin synthesis did not reach a plateau even at an epo dose of 10 units/ml.", "contents": "The relationship of hemoglobin synthesis to erythroid colony and burst formation. We have demonstrated that the cyclohexanone method for the extraction of hematin can be used to measure hemoglobin synthesis induced by erythropoietin (epo) in mouse bone marrow cells cultured in medium containing methyl cellulose. The time course of hemoglobin synthesis by mouse marrow cells showed two effects due to epo: an increase in hemoglobin synthesis at day 2, which corresponded to the formation of small erythroid colonies resulting from the CFU-E (colony-forming unit, erythroid), and a very large increase in hemoglobin synthesis, which was maximal at days 7-8 and corresponded to the formation of large erythroid colonies (bursts) resulting from the BFU-E (burst-forming unit, erythroid). The epo dose-response curves for CFU-E colony counts and day-2 hemoglobin synthesis were similar, and the cell-number-response curves for these two paramaters were parallel. The epo dose-response curve for BFU-E colony counts reached a plateau at an epo concentration between 3 and 5 units/ml, whereas the dose-response curve for 6-8-day hemoglobin synthesis did not reach a plateau even at an epo dose of 10 units/ml.", "PMID": 435647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2893", "title": "Comparison of red cell creatine level and reticulocyte count in appraising the severity of hemolytic processes.", "content": "In seeking a sensitive indicator for quantitative assessment of hemolytic disease, we found a close dependence of red cell creatine level on cell age. Studies in 21 patients with steady-state hemolysis showed high correlation (r=0.89, p less than 0.001) between reticulocyte counts and red cell creatine levels. Excluding elevation of the creatine level as a variable epiphenomenon of increased erythropoietic activity, density separation of normal red cells revealed distinctly higher creatine levels in younger cells. The reticulocyte counts and creatine levels as quantitative predictors of hemolytic processes were compared: in severe hemolytic anemias (T50Cr less than 11 days), erythrocyte survival (T50Cr) correlated well with creatine levels (r = -0.86, p less than 0.01) and, to a lesser degree, with reticulocyte counts (r = -0.72, p less than 0.05). In milder disease (T50Cr greater than 11 days), however, no correlation existed between reticulocyte counts and T50Cr, whereas the creating levels correlated closely with T50Cr (r = -0.84, p less than 0.001). Thus, on the basis of our regression equations, useful estimation of red cell survival may be obtained from single measurements of erythrocyte creatine.", "contents": "Comparison of red cell creatine level and reticulocyte count in appraising the severity of hemolytic processes. In seeking a sensitive indicator for quantitative assessment of hemolytic disease, we found a close dependence of red cell creatine level on cell age. Studies in 21 patients with steady-state hemolysis showed high correlation (r=0.89, p less than 0.001) between reticulocyte counts and red cell creatine levels. Excluding elevation of the creatine level as a variable epiphenomenon of increased erythropoietic activity, density separation of normal red cells revealed distinctly higher creatine levels in younger cells. The reticulocyte counts and creatine levels as quantitative predictors of hemolytic processes were compared: in severe hemolytic anemias (T50Cr less than 11 days), erythrocyte survival (T50Cr) correlated well with creatine levels (r = -0.86, p less than 0.01) and, to a lesser degree, with reticulocyte counts (r = -0.72, p less than 0.05). In milder disease (T50Cr greater than 11 days), however, no correlation existed between reticulocyte counts and T50Cr, whereas the creating levels correlated closely with T50Cr (r = -0.84, p less than 0.001). Thus, on the basis of our regression equations, useful estimation of red cell survival may be obtained from single measurements of erythrocyte creatine.", "PMID": 435648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2894", "title": "No effects of levamisole on cytotoxic drug-induced changes of human granulopoiesis.", "content": "The effect of Levamisole on the human granulopoiesis was studied in patients randomized to receive, in addition to adjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer, either no other treatment or additional unspecific immune therapy with Levamisole. The reaction of granulopoiesis to the cytostatic drugs, as characterized by changes of peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN), functional bone marrow granulocyte reserve, serial bone marrow cytology, and granulopoietic stem cells (CFU-C) in marrow and blood, was not affected by administration of Levamisole. The data support the concept that Levamisole has no direct effect on human bone marrow granulopoiesis, but that an allergic mechanism is involved in the pathogenesis of Levamisole-induced agranulocytosis. The expectation that Levamisole exerts a beneficial effect by stimulation of the granulopoiesis, as previously suggested for BCG and Corynebacterium parvum, could not be substantiated in our studies.", "contents": "No effects of levamisole on cytotoxic drug-induced changes of human granulopoiesis. The effect of Levamisole on the human granulopoiesis was studied in patients randomized to receive, in addition to adjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer, either no other treatment or additional unspecific immune therapy with Levamisole. The reaction of granulopoiesis to the cytostatic drugs, as characterized by changes of peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN), functional bone marrow granulocyte reserve, serial bone marrow cytology, and granulopoietic stem cells (CFU-C) in marrow and blood, was not affected by administration of Levamisole. The data support the concept that Levamisole has no direct effect on human bone marrow granulopoiesis, but that an allergic mechanism is involved in the pathogenesis of Levamisole-induced agranulocytosis. The expectation that Levamisole exerts a beneficial effect by stimulation of the granulopoiesis, as previously suggested for BCG and Corynebacterium parvum, could not be substantiated in our studies.", "PMID": 435650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2895", "title": "[Analysis of urinary proteins from 50 patients with multiple myeloma by discelectrophoresis (author's transl)].", "content": "Urinary proteins from 50 patients with multiple myeloma (37 Ig G, 6 Ig A, 7 Bence Jones) were investigated by discelectrophoresis in polyacrylamidgels containing sodium dodecylsulfat. All samples were also characterized by immunelectrophoresis. Quantitatively and qualitatively normal proteinuria was found in 13 patients (26%). 22 patients (44%) had monoclonal free light chains in the urine, kappachains were eliminated mainly in the monomeric form, lambdachains in all samples in the dimeric form. In 2 patients were found to exist light chains as monomers and dimers. 11 other patients (22%) had peaks of monoclonal Ig G or Ig A in the urine, always associated with the elimination of other nonmonoclonal proteins. Non-specific proteinuria was found in the remaining 4 patients. The clinical validity of the findings is discussed.", "contents": "[Analysis of urinary proteins from 50 patients with multiple myeloma by discelectrophoresis (author's transl)]. Urinary proteins from 50 patients with multiple myeloma (37 Ig G, 6 Ig A, 7 Bence Jones) were investigated by discelectrophoresis in polyacrylamidgels containing sodium dodecylsulfat. All samples were also characterized by immunelectrophoresis. Quantitatively and qualitatively normal proteinuria was found in 13 patients (26%). 22 patients (44%) had monoclonal free light chains in the urine, kappachains were eliminated mainly in the monomeric form, lambdachains in all samples in the dimeric form. In 2 patients were found to exist light chains as monomers and dimers. 11 other patients (22%) had peaks of monoclonal Ig G or Ig A in the urine, always associated with the elimination of other nonmonoclonal proteins. Non-specific proteinuria was found in the remaining 4 patients. The clinical validity of the findings is discussed.", "PMID": 435651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2896", "title": "[Demonstration of neutrophil leukocytes on blood smears by a modified colloidal iron reaction (author's transl)].", "content": "Using a modified colloidal iron reaction two positively reacting components in neutrophil leukocytes are discernible: 1. In neutrophils of unfixed smears the outer membrane or surface coat is stained. 2. After fixation with buffered formalin, formalin-sublimate or Helly's fluid a strongly reacting cytoplasmic component is demonstrable. After fixation with formalin-sublimate or Helly's fluid the latter has been proven to be sensitive against treatment with sialidase thus indicating the presence of sialic acid residues in neutrophil granulocytes.", "contents": "[Demonstration of neutrophil leukocytes on blood smears by a modified colloidal iron reaction (author's transl)]. Using a modified colloidal iron reaction two positively reacting components in neutrophil leukocytes are discernible: 1. In neutrophils of unfixed smears the outer membrane or surface coat is stained. 2. After fixation with buffered formalin, formalin-sublimate or Helly's fluid a strongly reacting cytoplasmic component is demonstrable. After fixation with formalin-sublimate or Helly's fluid the latter has been proven to be sensitive against treatment with sialidase thus indicating the presence of sialic acid residues in neutrophil granulocytes.", "PMID": 435652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2897", "title": "Human erythrocyte volume is linearly related to cell concentration in blood.", "content": "In 253 normal male subjects mean corpuscular volume decreases as red cell count increases. The result is statistically significant (p smaller than 0.005).", "contents": "Human erythrocyte volume is linearly related to cell concentration in blood. In 253 normal male subjects mean corpuscular volume decreases as red cell count increases. The result is statistically significant (p smaller than 0.005).", "PMID": 435653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2898", "title": "A new theory of cochlear function, Part II.", "content": "This composite theory is based on the concept of 'Gestalt Function' i.e. the acoustic needs of the 'whole animal' as the vertebrates evolved out of the primordial fish. During the first two hundred million years of terrestrial life, hearing was directed solely to substrate sound. When belatedly the mammals achieved air sensitive hearing they were tiny omnivorous creatures with functional needs comparable with those of the modern rat i.e. (i) A frequency analysing system for communication, and (ii) a low threshold 'startle mechanism' for the detection and localisation of nearby enemy or prey. It is herein suggested that (i) The two functions are subserved respectively, the IHC and OHC, (ii) That the two systems evolved independently, (iii) That they have always acted independently (iv) That they continue to do so. This theory conficts sharply with the widely held 'Siamese twin' theory that the two populations act in tandem to provide for the controversial 'second filter'. It is shown herein that that theory conflicts with basic principles and is devoid of physiological validation.", "contents": "A new theory of cochlear function, Part II. This composite theory is based on the concept of 'Gestalt Function' i.e. the acoustic needs of the 'whole animal' as the vertebrates evolved out of the primordial fish. During the first two hundred million years of terrestrial life, hearing was directed solely to substrate sound. When belatedly the mammals achieved air sensitive hearing they were tiny omnivorous creatures with functional needs comparable with those of the modern rat i.e. (i) A frequency analysing system for communication, and (ii) a low threshold 'startle mechanism' for the detection and localisation of nearby enemy or prey. It is herein suggested that (i) The two functions are subserved respectively, the IHC and OHC, (ii) That the two systems evolved independently, (iii) That they have always acted independently (iv) That they continue to do so. This theory conficts sharply with the widely held 'Siamese twin' theory that the two populations act in tandem to provide for the controversial 'second filter'. It is shown herein that that theory conflicts with basic principles and is devoid of physiological validation.", "PMID": 435655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2899", "title": "Critical bandwidth in loudness summation in sensorineural hearing loss.", "content": "Critical band estimation was performed in thirty-three patients with sensorineural hearing loss by the method of loudness summation, using noise bands centred around 1 kHZ. In 17 patients the hearing loss was of hereditary origin, in 16 patients of various, mostly unknown, origin. The normal loudness difference between broad band noise and narrow band noise decreased with increasing hearing loss, most pronounced in recruiting ears. Judged individually, 1/3 of the patients appeared to have a widened critical band, but several biases appeared to be responsible for these results. The pooled data indicated a normal critical band, both in patients with hearing losses less than 50 dB HL and in patients with hearing losses greater than or equal to 50 dB HL. Based on this finding, the validity of the critical band as a measure of the frequency selectivity of the ear is discussed and a theory is proposed for the anatomical and functional correlate of the critical band in loudness summation.", "contents": "Critical bandwidth in loudness summation in sensorineural hearing loss. Critical band estimation was performed in thirty-three patients with sensorineural hearing loss by the method of loudness summation, using noise bands centred around 1 kHZ. In 17 patients the hearing loss was of hereditary origin, in 16 patients of various, mostly unknown, origin. The normal loudness difference between broad band noise and narrow band noise decreased with increasing hearing loss, most pronounced in recruiting ears. Judged individually, 1/3 of the patients appeared to have a widened critical band, but several biases appeared to be responsible for these results. The pooled data indicated a normal critical band, both in patients with hearing losses less than 50 dB HL and in patients with hearing losses greater than or equal to 50 dB HL. Based on this finding, the validity of the critical band as a measure of the frequency selectivity of the ear is discussed and a theory is proposed for the anatomical and functional correlate of the critical band in loudness summation.", "PMID": 435656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2900", "title": "Problems with handling the BE10 series hearing aids among elderly people.", "content": "Seven items of activity related to patients' ability to handle behind-the-ear hearing aids (BE11/12) were investigated to establish the effects of age, sex and functional disability. One hundred and thirty-six patients were examined; all were first-time users of hearing aids. Over two-fifths of the sample had problems with manipulating the volume control and over a third had difficulty with inserting the earmould and changing the battery. For both men and women, the difficulties with the volume control and earmould were significantly associated with functional disability. Difficulties with these tasks were also significantly related to age and sex. Patients aged 75 years of age or more had greater difficulties than those who were younger and women had more difficulty than men.", "contents": "Problems with handling the BE10 series hearing aids among elderly people. Seven items of activity related to patients' ability to handle behind-the-ear hearing aids (BE11/12) were investigated to establish the effects of age, sex and functional disability. One hundred and thirty-six patients were examined; all were first-time users of hearing aids. Over two-fifths of the sample had problems with manipulating the volume control and over a third had difficulty with inserting the earmould and changing the battery. For both men and women, the difficulties with the volume control and earmould were significantly associated with functional disability. Difficulties with these tasks were also significantly related to age and sex. Patients aged 75 years of age or more had greater difficulties than those who were younger and women had more difficulty than men.", "PMID": 435657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2901", "title": "Aural rehabilitation of hearing-impaired adults (official policy of the British Society of Audiology).", "content": "This report, which outlines the official policy of the British Society of Audiology on the aural rehabilitation of hearing impaired adults, (a) estimates the prevalence of hearing impairment in adults in the United Kingdom; (b) identifies the main problems associated with hearing impairment in adults; (c) outlines the main aural rehabilitative procedures and (d) puts forward recommendations for future developments in this area.", "contents": "Aural rehabilitation of hearing-impaired adults (official policy of the British Society of Audiology). This report, which outlines the official policy of the British Society of Audiology on the aural rehabilitation of hearing impaired adults, (a) estimates the prevalence of hearing impairment in adults in the United Kingdom; (b) identifies the main problems associated with hearing impairment in adults; (c) outlines the main aural rehabilitative procedures and (d) puts forward recommendations for future developments in this area.", "PMID": 435658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2902", "title": "Endocrine emergencies.", "content": "Endocrine and metabolic emergencies, although generally uncommon, produce characteristic clinical pictures which should allow rapid diagnosis. The results of confirmatory investigations are often no available in the acute situation, but it is important that the relevant samples should be taken before starting therapy. These are summarized with a synopsis of the recommended treatments for the various conditions in Table 1.", "contents": "Endocrine emergencies. Endocrine and metabolic emergencies, although generally uncommon, produce characteristic clinical pictures which should allow rapid diagnosis. The results of confirmatory investigations are often no available in the acute situation, but it is important that the relevant samples should be taken before starting therapy. These are summarized with a synopsis of the recommended treatments for the various conditions in Table 1.", "PMID": 435667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2903", "title": "Effects of morphine, physostigmine and raphe nuclei stimulation on 5-hydroxytryptamine release from the cerebral cortex of the cat.", "content": "1. The release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) from the cerebral cortex and caudate nucleus of brainstem-transected cats and from the cerebral cortex of rats anaesthetized with urethane was determined by radioenzymatic and biological assay. 2. The stimulation of nucleus linearis intermedius of raphe doubles the basal 5-HT release in the caudate nucleus and increases it 3 fold in the cerebral cortex. The effects of the electrical stimulation of the raphe are potentiated by chlorimipramine. 3. Brain 5-HT release is greatly increased by morphine hydrochloride (6 mg/kg i.v.) and by physostigmine (100 microgram/kg i.v.), but not by DL-DOPA (50 mg/kg i.v.). 4. It is suggested that the 5-HT releasing action of physostigmine can contribute to some of its pharmacological effects such as the analgesic effect so far attributed exclusively to its indirect cholinomimetic activity. 5. The 5-HT releasing action of physostigmine seems unrelated to its anticholinesterase activity.", "contents": "Effects of morphine, physostigmine and raphe nuclei stimulation on 5-hydroxytryptamine release from the cerebral cortex of the cat. 1. The release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) from the cerebral cortex and caudate nucleus of brainstem-transected cats and from the cerebral cortex of rats anaesthetized with urethane was determined by radioenzymatic and biological assay. 2. The stimulation of nucleus linearis intermedius of raphe doubles the basal 5-HT release in the caudate nucleus and increases it 3 fold in the cerebral cortex. The effects of the electrical stimulation of the raphe are potentiated by chlorimipramine. 3. Brain 5-HT release is greatly increased by morphine hydrochloride (6 mg/kg i.v.) and by physostigmine (100 microgram/kg i.v.), but not by DL-DOPA (50 mg/kg i.v.). 4. It is suggested that the 5-HT releasing action of physostigmine can contribute to some of its pharmacological effects such as the analgesic effect so far attributed exclusively to its indirect cholinomimetic activity. 5. The 5-HT releasing action of physostigmine seems unrelated to its anticholinesterase activity.", "PMID": 435680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2904", "title": "Effects of certain muscarinic antagonists on the actions of anticholinesterases on cat skeletal muscle.", "content": "1. The effects of some muscarinic antagonists, namely, N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidylmethyl-cyclopentylphenyl glycollate (PMCG), N-methyl-4-piperidyl-phenylcyclohexyl glycollate (PPCG, racemate and R and S enantiomers) and 4'-N-methyl-piperidyl-1-phenyl-cyclopentane carboxylate (G3063) on organophosphate (sarin, soman)- and carbamate (neostigmine)-induced twitch augmentation have been studied in cat soleus muscle. 2. The results of a preliminary study comparing the potency of sarin and soman in inhibiting the acetylcholinesterase activity of muscle in relation to the effect on the maximal twitch response indicated that there is not a simple relationship between degree of enzyme inhibition by these drugs and alteration of muscle function. 3. The muscarinic antagonists studied were capable of preventing or reversing sarin-, soman- or neostigmine-induced twitch augmentation. Doses sufficient to give complete protection from the effects of the anticholinesterase agents had little or no effect on the twitch response of normal muscle. 4. The protective action of these muscarinic antagonists is dose-dependent but independent of known antagonist actions at muscarinic receptors. 5. The effects of some local anaesthetics (lignocaine, prilocaine, cinchocaine, procaine) and other membrane stabilizers (quinine, ketamine, chlorpromazine, triflupromazine) were compared with those of the muscarinic antagonists in an attempt to elucidate the mode of action of these acetylcholine antagonists. The evidence is insufficient to exclude the involvement of a membrane stabilizing action.", "contents": "Effects of certain muscarinic antagonists on the actions of anticholinesterases on cat skeletal muscle. 1. The effects of some muscarinic antagonists, namely, N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidylmethyl-cyclopentylphenyl glycollate (PMCG), N-methyl-4-piperidyl-phenylcyclohexyl glycollate (PPCG, racemate and R and S enantiomers) and 4'-N-methyl-piperidyl-1-phenyl-cyclopentane carboxylate (G3063) on organophosphate (sarin, soman)- and carbamate (neostigmine)-induced twitch augmentation have been studied in cat soleus muscle. 2. The results of a preliminary study comparing the potency of sarin and soman in inhibiting the acetylcholinesterase activity of muscle in relation to the effect on the maximal twitch response indicated that there is not a simple relationship between degree of enzyme inhibition by these drugs and alteration of muscle function. 3. The muscarinic antagonists studied were capable of preventing or reversing sarin-, soman- or neostigmine-induced twitch augmentation. Doses sufficient to give complete protection from the effects of the anticholinesterase agents had little or no effect on the twitch response of normal muscle. 4. The protective action of these muscarinic antagonists is dose-dependent but independent of known antagonist actions at muscarinic receptors. 5. The effects of some local anaesthetics (lignocaine, prilocaine, cinchocaine, procaine) and other membrane stabilizers (quinine, ketamine, chlorpromazine, triflupromazine) were compared with those of the muscarinic antagonists in an attempt to elucidate the mode of action of these acetylcholine antagonists. The evidence is insufficient to exclude the involvement of a membrane stabilizing action.", "PMID": 435681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2905", "title": "Short and long-term effects of reserpine on the concentration of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-ethane-1,2-diol (MOPEG-SO4) in the brain of the rat.", "content": "1 Reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.) induced an increase (172% of controls) in the concentration of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-ethane-1,2-diol sulphate (MOPEG-SO(4)) in rat brain and a decrease in the noradrenaline (NA) concentration to 50% of controls 2 h after injection. At this time the MOPEG-SO(4)/NA ratio was 0.28. Thereafter the MOPEG-SO(4) concentration declined and the NA concentration decreased further to 28% of control.2 Higher doses of reserpine (2.5 and 5 mg/kg i.p.) did not induce a larger increase in the concentration of MOPEG-SO(4).3 While a second dose of reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.) given 24 h after the first did not increase the MOPEG-SO(4) concentration, amphetamine (5.0 mg/kg i.p.) administration or electrical stimulation significantly increased the concentration of MOPEG-SO(4).4 NA and MOPEG-SO(4) concentrations were examined during 5 days after a single dose of reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.). While the concentration of NA started to return towards normal after 24 h, that of MOPEG-SO(4) remained at approximately 70% of controls during the entire period.5 The probenecid-induced accumulation rate of MOPEG-SO(4) was significantly lower 3 and 4 days after reserpine and returned to the control value on the fifth day. At this time the concentration of NA had reached 50% of the control value.6 These experiments indicate that MOPEG-SO(4) is not the major metabolite of NA during the initial phase of reserpine-induced NA release. Reserpine acts on the storage pool while amphetamine (like electrical stimulation) acts on the functional pool. During the first phase of post-drug recovery, there is a clear decrease in NA output which appears to be regulated by the concentration of NA in the storage pool.", "contents": "Short and long-term effects of reserpine on the concentration of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-ethane-1,2-diol (MOPEG-SO4) in the brain of the rat. 1 Reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.) induced an increase (172% of controls) in the concentration of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-ethane-1,2-diol sulphate (MOPEG-SO(4)) in rat brain and a decrease in the noradrenaline (NA) concentration to 50% of controls 2 h after injection. At this time the MOPEG-SO(4)/NA ratio was 0.28. Thereafter the MOPEG-SO(4) concentration declined and the NA concentration decreased further to 28% of control.2 Higher doses of reserpine (2.5 and 5 mg/kg i.p.) did not induce a larger increase in the concentration of MOPEG-SO(4).3 While a second dose of reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.) given 24 h after the first did not increase the MOPEG-SO(4) concentration, amphetamine (5.0 mg/kg i.p.) administration or electrical stimulation significantly increased the concentration of MOPEG-SO(4).4 NA and MOPEG-SO(4) concentrations were examined during 5 days after a single dose of reserpine (1.25 mg/kg i.p.). While the concentration of NA started to return towards normal after 24 h, that of MOPEG-SO(4) remained at approximately 70% of controls during the entire period.5 The probenecid-induced accumulation rate of MOPEG-SO(4) was significantly lower 3 and 4 days after reserpine and returned to the control value on the fifth day. At this time the concentration of NA had reached 50% of the control value.6 These experiments indicate that MOPEG-SO(4) is not the major metabolite of NA during the initial phase of reserpine-induced NA release. Reserpine acts on the storage pool while amphetamine (like electrical stimulation) acts on the functional pool. During the first phase of post-drug recovery, there is a clear decrease in NA output which appears to be regulated by the concentration of NA in the storage pool.", "PMID": 435682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2906", "title": "The protective action of inosine on isolated arteries in hypoxia.", "content": "1 The pressor responses to injected noradrenaline (NA) of isolated perfused femoral or renal arteries of the rabbit were studied.2 Vascular smooth muscle is relatively resistant to hypoxia. A combination of hypoxia and dinitrophenol (DNP) respiratory uncoupling was necessary to abolish the pressor response to NA. Loss of the pressor response was assumed to result from decreased capacity of arteries to form adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP). Reperfusion of the hypoxic arteries with oxygenated medium resulted in recovery of the pressor response to NA.3 Inclusion of inosine (10 mM) in the hypoxic perfusion medium increased significantly the rate and extent of post-hypoxic recovery of the pressor response to NA.4 Whereas the presence of inosine in the hypoxic perfusion medium aided post-hypoxic recovery, inosine had no direct action on the pressor dose response to NA. Therefore, the action of inosine was protective as opposed to direct.5 The protective action of inosine did not involve potentiation of NA binding to NA-adrenoceptor sites (the equilibrium coefficient, K(eq) for NA-receptor interaction was unaltered by hypoxia and/or inosine).6 The results are discussed in terms of a presumptive mechanism whereby inosine is believed to act by maintaining intracellular adenine nucleotide concentrations in hypoxia.", "contents": "The protective action of inosine on isolated arteries in hypoxia. 1 The pressor responses to injected noradrenaline (NA) of isolated perfused femoral or renal arteries of the rabbit were studied.2 Vascular smooth muscle is relatively resistant to hypoxia. A combination of hypoxia and dinitrophenol (DNP) respiratory uncoupling was necessary to abolish the pressor response to NA. Loss of the pressor response was assumed to result from decreased capacity of arteries to form adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP). Reperfusion of the hypoxic arteries with oxygenated medium resulted in recovery of the pressor response to NA.3 Inclusion of inosine (10 mM) in the hypoxic perfusion medium increased significantly the rate and extent of post-hypoxic recovery of the pressor response to NA.4 Whereas the presence of inosine in the hypoxic perfusion medium aided post-hypoxic recovery, inosine had no direct action on the pressor dose response to NA. Therefore, the action of inosine was protective as opposed to direct.5 The protective action of inosine did not involve potentiation of NA binding to NA-adrenoceptor sites (the equilibrium coefficient, K(eq) for NA-receptor interaction was unaltered by hypoxia and/or inosine).6 The results are discussed in terms of a presumptive mechanism whereby inosine is believed to act by maintaining intracellular adenine nucleotide concentrations in hypoxia.", "PMID": 435683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2907", "title": "Effects of procaine and extracellular calcium concentration on response of rat stomach fundus muscle to acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine.", "content": "1. When rat stomach fundus muscle was incubated for 30 min in Tyrode solution from which calcium chloride had been omitted, there was an almost complete abolition of the contractile response to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) while that to acetylcholine (ACh) was still present. 2. The maximum tension obtainable with ACh remained the same in external calcium concentrations ranging from 0.45 to 3.6 mM, but the pD2 value increased. 3. A concentration of at least 0.9 mM calcium was needed to maintain a maximum contraction with 5-HT, and the pD2 for this agent also increased significantly with increase in calcium content of the medium. 4. The effects of procaine on the responses of the muscle to 5-HT and ACh were similar to the respective changes induced by lowering the calcium concentration, and were reduced by the addition of calcium. 5. Concentrations of 2.2 x 10(-7) to 3.6 x 10(-5) M procaine reduced the effects of both 5-HT and KCl and suppressed the maximum responses. 6. The maximum responses to KCl and 5-HT were restored at higher concentrations of procaine (greater than 3.6 x 10(-4) M), while the effect of ACh was reduced. 7. It is suggested that 5-HT, like KCl, is almost entirely dependent on extracellular calcium for inducing muscle contraction, while ACh may utilize calcium from bound stores.", "contents": "Effects of procaine and extracellular calcium concentration on response of rat stomach fundus muscle to acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. 1. When rat stomach fundus muscle was incubated for 30 min in Tyrode solution from which calcium chloride had been omitted, there was an almost complete abolition of the contractile response to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) while that to acetylcholine (ACh) was still present. 2. The maximum tension obtainable with ACh remained the same in external calcium concentrations ranging from 0.45 to 3.6 mM, but the pD2 value increased. 3. A concentration of at least 0.9 mM calcium was needed to maintain a maximum contraction with 5-HT, and the pD2 for this agent also increased significantly with increase in calcium content of the medium. 4. The effects of procaine on the responses of the muscle to 5-HT and ACh were similar to the respective changes induced by lowering the calcium concentration, and were reduced by the addition of calcium. 5. Concentrations of 2.2 x 10(-7) to 3.6 x 10(-5) M procaine reduced the effects of both 5-HT and KCl and suppressed the maximum responses. 6. The maximum responses to KCl and 5-HT were restored at higher concentrations of procaine (greater than 3.6 x 10(-4) M), while the effect of ACh was reduced. 7. It is suggested that 5-HT, like KCl, is almost entirely dependent on extracellular calcium for inducing muscle contraction, while ACh may utilize calcium from bound stores.", "PMID": 435684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2908", "title": "Shape change of blood platelets--a model for cerebral 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors?", "content": "1. In blood platelets of rabbits isolated by a stractan gradient and incubated in a protein-poor medium, tryptamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and derivatives, quipazine and mescaline caused a shape change. This shape change was inhibited by low concentrations of methysergide. 2. The most potent antagonists of the 5-HT-induced shape change included ergoline derivatives and neuroleptic drugs, which showed high stereoselectivity. 3. (+)-Lysergic acid diethylamide ((+)-LSD), psilocine and some N',N'-dimethylated tryptamines acted as mixed agonist-antagonists. 4. The compounds found to be agonists or mixed agonist-antagonists on platelets have previously been shown to act also as 5-HT agonists in the central nervous system (CNS). 5. With regard to 5-HT antagonists, the 5-HT receptors of platelets reacted differently from those described earlier in brain areas with dense 5-hydroxytryptaminergic innervation, but showed similarities to 5-HT receptors investigated previously in spinal cord, cerebral cortex and possibly reticular formation. 6. It is concluded that platelets may be considered with caution as models for some, but not for all, 5-HT receptors in the CNS.", "contents": "Shape change of blood platelets--a model for cerebral 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors? 1. In blood platelets of rabbits isolated by a stractan gradient and incubated in a protein-poor medium, tryptamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and derivatives, quipazine and mescaline caused a shape change. This shape change was inhibited by low concentrations of methysergide. 2. The most potent antagonists of the 5-HT-induced shape change included ergoline derivatives and neuroleptic drugs, which showed high stereoselectivity. 3. (+)-Lysergic acid diethylamide ((+)-LSD), psilocine and some N',N'-dimethylated tryptamines acted as mixed agonist-antagonists. 4. The compounds found to be agonists or mixed agonist-antagonists on platelets have previously been shown to act also as 5-HT agonists in the central nervous system (CNS). 5. With regard to 5-HT antagonists, the 5-HT receptors of platelets reacted differently from those described earlier in brain areas with dense 5-hydroxytryptaminergic innervation, but showed similarities to 5-HT receptors investigated previously in spinal cord, cerebral cortex and possibly reticular formation. 6. It is concluded that platelets may be considered with caution as models for some, but not for all, 5-HT receptors in the CNS.", "PMID": 435685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2909", "title": "Stimulation of specific [3H]-ouabain binding to microsomal preparations from rat heart and skeletal muscle by thyroid hormones: effects of 6-hydroxydopamine.", "content": "1. Surgical thyroidectomy decreased specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart ventricular microsomes by 43% and gastrocnemius muscle microsomes by 34%. Administration of triiodothyronine to euthyroid rats enhanced specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart and skeletal muscle membrane by 60% and 33% respectively. 2. Treatment of thyroidectomized rats with triiodothyronine increased specific [3H]-ouabain binding by 44% in skeletal muscle membrane preparation and 428% in cardiac microsomes. 3. Specific [3H]-ouabain binding decreased by 55% in heart and 53% in gastrocnemius muscle preparations following chemical sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine. 4. Treatment with triiodothyronine of euthyroid rats which had been sympathectomized did not significantly alter specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart or skeletal muscle membrane preparations. 5. Administration of triiodothyronine to thyroidectomized and sympathectomized rats increased specific [3H]-ouabain binding by 80% in heart and 83% in skeletal muscle membrane preparations. 6. These results suggest that triiodothyronine may influence specific [3H]-ouabain binding to thyroid hormone nonresponsive tissue such as sympathetic nerve endings. Therefore, the present observations are incompatible with the hypothesis that induction of (Na+ +K+)-adenosine triphosphatase of skeletal muscle membrane is the molecular mechanism for the calorigenic actions of thyroid hormones.", "contents": "Stimulation of specific [3H]-ouabain binding to microsomal preparations from rat heart and skeletal muscle by thyroid hormones: effects of 6-hydroxydopamine. 1. Surgical thyroidectomy decreased specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart ventricular microsomes by 43% and gastrocnemius muscle microsomes by 34%. Administration of triiodothyronine to euthyroid rats enhanced specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart and skeletal muscle membrane by 60% and 33% respectively. 2. Treatment of thyroidectomized rats with triiodothyronine increased specific [3H]-ouabain binding by 44% in skeletal muscle membrane preparation and 428% in cardiac microsomes. 3. Specific [3H]-ouabain binding decreased by 55% in heart and 53% in gastrocnemius muscle preparations following chemical sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine. 4. Treatment with triiodothyronine of euthyroid rats which had been sympathectomized did not significantly alter specific [3H]-ouabain binding to heart or skeletal muscle membrane preparations. 5. Administration of triiodothyronine to thyroidectomized and sympathectomized rats increased specific [3H]-ouabain binding by 80% in heart and 83% in skeletal muscle membrane preparations. 6. These results suggest that triiodothyronine may influence specific [3H]-ouabain binding to thyroid hormone nonresponsive tissue such as sympathetic nerve endings. Therefore, the present observations are incompatible with the hypothesis that induction of (Na+ +K+)-adenosine triphosphatase of skeletal muscle membrane is the molecular mechanism for the calorigenic actions of thyroid hormones.", "PMID": 435686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2910", "title": "The role of histamine H1- and H2-receptors in the generation of thromboxane A2 in perfused guinea-pig lungs.", "content": "1. When isolated perfused lungs from normal and ovalbumin sensitized guinea-pigs were challenged with histamine and 2-methylhistamine (agonists for H1-receptor), a release of thromboxane A2-like substance was observed. The effect of histamine on production of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in sensitized lungs, was more pronounced than in normal lungs (P less than 0.01). 2. Specific activation of histamine H2-receptors in normal lungs with large doses (100 micrograms) of dimaprit and 4-methylhistamine, does not produce thromboxane-like or prostaglandin-like substances. 3. Perfusion of the lungs with pyrilamine (10 micrograms/ml) inhibited the release of arachidonate metabolites induced by histamine H1-receptor stimulation, whereas cimetidine (5 micrograms/ml) was ineffective. 4. It is concluded that only the stimulation of histamine H1-receptors appears to be responsible for generation of thromboxane A2 and other prostaglandin-like substances in normal guinea-pig lungs. In sensitized lungs, an increased ability of histamine to release TXA2 could be due to a possible interconversion of H2 into H1-receptors.", "contents": "The role of histamine H1- and H2-receptors in the generation of thromboxane A2 in perfused guinea-pig lungs. 1. When isolated perfused lungs from normal and ovalbumin sensitized guinea-pigs were challenged with histamine and 2-methylhistamine (agonists for H1-receptor), a release of thromboxane A2-like substance was observed. The effect of histamine on production of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in sensitized lungs, was more pronounced than in normal lungs (P less than 0.01). 2. Specific activation of histamine H2-receptors in normal lungs with large doses (100 micrograms) of dimaprit and 4-methylhistamine, does not produce thromboxane-like or prostaglandin-like substances. 3. Perfusion of the lungs with pyrilamine (10 micrograms/ml) inhibited the release of arachidonate metabolites induced by histamine H1-receptor stimulation, whereas cimetidine (5 micrograms/ml) was ineffective. 4. It is concluded that only the stimulation of histamine H1-receptors appears to be responsible for generation of thromboxane A2 and other prostaglandin-like substances in normal guinea-pig lungs. In sensitized lungs, an increased ability of histamine to release TXA2 could be due to a possible interconversion of H2 into H1-receptors.", "PMID": 435687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2911", "title": "Action of prostaglandin dehydrogenase inhibitors on prostaglandin uptake in rat isolated lung.", "content": "1. The effects of some inhibitors of 15-hydroxy-prostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH) have been studied on the inactivation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 16, 16-dimethyl PGE2 in rat isolated lung. 2. Bioassay was used to show that the inactivation of PGE2 and its methyl analogue, was inhibited by frusemide (10(-3) M), N-ethyl maleimide (10(-5) M) and 5,5'-dithio-bis-2-nitro-benzoic acid (10(-2) M), but not by caffeine (2.5 x 10(-3) M). 3. The efflux of radioactivity from lung following injection of [14C]-PGE2 was faster in lungs treated with frusemide, N-ethyl maleimide or bromcresol green, than in untreated lungs. 4. Caffeine (10(-3), 10(-2) M) did not change the rate of 14C-efflux from lungs following injection of [14C]-PGE2. 5. From these results it is concluded that those PGDH inhibitors that prevented prostaglandin inactivation in isolated lungs did so by inhibiting uptake of prostaglandin rather than by inhibiting PGDH.", "contents": "Action of prostaglandin dehydrogenase inhibitors on prostaglandin uptake in rat isolated lung. 1. The effects of some inhibitors of 15-hydroxy-prostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH) have been studied on the inactivation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 16, 16-dimethyl PGE2 in rat isolated lung. 2. Bioassay was used to show that the inactivation of PGE2 and its methyl analogue, was inhibited by frusemide (10(-3) M), N-ethyl maleimide (10(-5) M) and 5,5'-dithio-bis-2-nitro-benzoic acid (10(-2) M), but not by caffeine (2.5 x 10(-3) M). 3. The efflux of radioactivity from lung following injection of [14C]-PGE2 was faster in lungs treated with frusemide, N-ethyl maleimide or bromcresol green, than in untreated lungs. 4. Caffeine (10(-3), 10(-2) M) did not change the rate of 14C-efflux from lungs following injection of [14C]-PGE2. 5. From these results it is concluded that those PGDH inhibitors that prevented prostaglandin inactivation in isolated lungs did so by inhibiting uptake of prostaglandin rather than by inhibiting PGDH.", "PMID": 435688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2912", "title": "Effects of verapamil, dantrolene and lanthanum on catecholamine release from rat adrenal medulla.", "content": "1. The release of catecholamines (CA) from rat adrenal incubated in vivo in Locke solution was studied. 2. Acetylcholine-induced release of CA and CA release by 56 mM KCl were inhibited by verapamil and lanthanum chloride which block calcium permeability. 3. CA secretion induced by salbutamol or by theophylline was unaffected by either verapamil or lanthanum chloride. 4. Dantrolene-sodium inhibited the CA secretion induced by theophylline but only partially reduced potassium-induced release of CA. 5. Verapamil enhanced the secretion of CA induced by salbutamol (in a calcium-free medium). 6. Tyramine-induced secretion of CA was unaffected by lanthanum chloride, verapamil or dantrolene-sodium. 7. It is suggested that cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate-mediated CA secretion (induced by theophylline or salbutamol) depends on release of calcium from intracellular stores, and that CA secretion induced by tyramine is independent of intra- or extracellular calcium.", "contents": "Effects of verapamil, dantrolene and lanthanum on catecholamine release from rat adrenal medulla. 1. The release of catecholamines (CA) from rat adrenal incubated in vivo in Locke solution was studied. 2. Acetylcholine-induced release of CA and CA release by 56 mM KCl were inhibited by verapamil and lanthanum chloride which block calcium permeability. 3. CA secretion induced by salbutamol or by theophylline was unaffected by either verapamil or lanthanum chloride. 4. Dantrolene-sodium inhibited the CA secretion induced by theophylline but only partially reduced potassium-induced release of CA. 5. Verapamil enhanced the secretion of CA induced by salbutamol (in a calcium-free medium). 6. Tyramine-induced secretion of CA was unaffected by lanthanum chloride, verapamil or dantrolene-sodium. 7. It is suggested that cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate-mediated CA secretion (induced by theophylline or salbutamol) depends on release of calcium from intracellular stores, and that CA secretion induced by tyramine is independent of intra- or extracellular calcium.", "PMID": 435689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2913", "title": "On the role of 5-hydroxytryptamine in drug-induced antinociception.", "content": "1. The effects of four specific inhibitors of 5-hydroxytryptamine (K-HT) uptake on morphine-, methadone- or pethidine-induced antinociception was studied in rats. Antinociception was assessed by means of hot plate (55 degrees C) reaction times. The effect of the compounds on the uptake of [3H]-5-HT into rat whole brain synaptosomes was also investigated. 2. Pretreatment with Org 6582, citalopram, zimelidine or femoxetine at doses devoid of antinociceptive activity potentiated morphine- but not methadone- or pethidine-induced antinociception. 3. A temporal correlation existed between the ability of Org 6582 to potentiate morphine-induced antinociception and to block synaptosomal [3H]-5-HT uptake. 4. 5-HT plays a critical role in the antinociceptive effect of morphine but not of methadone or pethidine.", "contents": "On the role of 5-hydroxytryptamine in drug-induced antinociception. 1. The effects of four specific inhibitors of 5-hydroxytryptamine (K-HT) uptake on morphine-, methadone- or pethidine-induced antinociception was studied in rats. Antinociception was assessed by means of hot plate (55 degrees C) reaction times. The effect of the compounds on the uptake of [3H]-5-HT into rat whole brain synaptosomes was also investigated. 2. Pretreatment with Org 6582, citalopram, zimelidine or femoxetine at doses devoid of antinociceptive activity potentiated morphine- but not methadone- or pethidine-induced antinociception. 3. A temporal correlation existed between the ability of Org 6582 to potentiate morphine-induced antinociception and to block synaptosomal [3H]-5-HT uptake. 4. 5-HT plays a critical role in the antinociceptive effect of morphine but not of methadone or pethidine.", "PMID": 435690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2914", "title": "Assessment of the effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on blood flow through and salivation of the dog salivary gland in comparison with those of secretin, glucagon and acetylcholine.", "content": "1. The vascular bed of the submandibular gland in situ was perfused with blood through the glandular artery at a constant pressure in anesthetized dogs. All drugs were administered intra-arterially. 2. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), secretin and acetylcholine produced a dose-dependent increase in blood flow through the artery (vasodilatation) but glucagon was almost ineffective. 3. Dose-blood flow response curves for VIP and secretin were parallel, and VIP was about 100 times as potent as secretin on a molar basis. Dose-blood flow response curves for acetylcholine were flatter than those for VIP and secretin. Acetylcholine was approximately as potent as secretin on a molar basis. 4. No tachyphylaxis developed to the vasodilator action of VIP. 5. The vasodilator responses to VIP and to electrical stimulation of the chordolingual nerve were scarcely modified by (-)-hyoscyamine in doses that fully antagonized the vasodilator response to acetylcholine. 6. VIP, secretin and glucagon were ineffective in eliciting salivary secretion. 7. The possibility that VIP is released from parasympathetic vasodilator nerves and mediates the atropine-resistant vasodilatation in the dog submandibular gland is discussed.", "contents": "Assessment of the effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on blood flow through and salivation of the dog salivary gland in comparison with those of secretin, glucagon and acetylcholine. 1. The vascular bed of the submandibular gland in situ was perfused with blood through the glandular artery at a constant pressure in anesthetized dogs. All drugs were administered intra-arterially. 2. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), secretin and acetylcholine produced a dose-dependent increase in blood flow through the artery (vasodilatation) but glucagon was almost ineffective. 3. Dose-blood flow response curves for VIP and secretin were parallel, and VIP was about 100 times as potent as secretin on a molar basis. Dose-blood flow response curves for acetylcholine were flatter than those for VIP and secretin. Acetylcholine was approximately as potent as secretin on a molar basis. 4. No tachyphylaxis developed to the vasodilator action of VIP. 5. The vasodilator responses to VIP and to electrical stimulation of the chordolingual nerve were scarcely modified by (-)-hyoscyamine in doses that fully antagonized the vasodilator response to acetylcholine. 6. VIP, secretin and glucagon were ineffective in eliciting salivary secretion. 7. The possibility that VIP is released from parasympathetic vasodilator nerves and mediates the atropine-resistant vasodilatation in the dog submandibular gland is discussed.", "PMID": 435691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2915", "title": "Investigation of the role of calcium in the supersensitivity produced by cocaine in cat spleen strips.", "content": "1. Cocaine (2 x 10(-6) M and 10(-5) M) produced 2 and 7 fold shifts to the left of the dose-response curve to (-)-noradrenaline recorded isotonically in isolated splenic capsular strips of the cat. 2. The same concentrations of cocaine also produced increases in the maximum response of the tissue to 117% and 126.7% of control. 3. Desmethylimipramine (DMI, 10(-7) to 10(-6) M) produced no significant potentiation of the response of cat spleen strips to (-)-noradrenaline. At 10(-5) M DMI decreased the maximum response. 4. Cocaine (10(-5) M) produced a 3.3 fold shift to the left of the dose-response curve whereas DMI (10(-6) M) had no effect on the dose-response curve to oxymetazoline in cat splenic capsular strips. 5. Cocaine (10(-5) M) in the presence of phentolamine (10(-6) M) produced a shift to the left and an increase in the maximum response to K+, an agonist which is believed to produce muscle contraction by increasing the membrane calcium flux. 6. Cocaine (10(-5 M) had no effect on the dose-response curve to angiotensin which is believed to contract vascular muscle by releasing calcium from intracellular storage sites. 7. The potentiating effect of cocaine (10(-5) M) on responses of spleen strips to (-)-noradrenaline was blocked by the calcium flux inhibitor SKF 525A (2.65 x 10(-5) M). 8. It is concluded that the results are compatible with the view that cocaine enhances the influx of calcium across the cell membrane during responses to agonists that utilize the extracellular pool of calcium and that this effect is responsible for a large part of the potentiation of the response.", "contents": "Investigation of the role of calcium in the supersensitivity produced by cocaine in cat spleen strips. 1. Cocaine (2 x 10(-6) M and 10(-5) M) produced 2 and 7 fold shifts to the left of the dose-response curve to (-)-noradrenaline recorded isotonically in isolated splenic capsular strips of the cat. 2. The same concentrations of cocaine also produced increases in the maximum response of the tissue to 117% and 126.7% of control. 3. Desmethylimipramine (DMI, 10(-7) to 10(-6) M) produced no significant potentiation of the response of cat spleen strips to (-)-noradrenaline. At 10(-5) M DMI decreased the maximum response. 4. Cocaine (10(-5) M) produced a 3.3 fold shift to the left of the dose-response curve whereas DMI (10(-6) M) had no effect on the dose-response curve to oxymetazoline in cat splenic capsular strips. 5. Cocaine (10(-5) M) in the presence of phentolamine (10(-6) M) produced a shift to the left and an increase in the maximum response to K+, an agonist which is believed to produce muscle contraction by increasing the membrane calcium flux. 6. Cocaine (10(-5 M) had no effect on the dose-response curve to angiotensin which is believed to contract vascular muscle by releasing calcium from intracellular storage sites. 7. The potentiating effect of cocaine (10(-5) M) on responses of spleen strips to (-)-noradrenaline was blocked by the calcium flux inhibitor SKF 525A (2.65 x 10(-5) M). 8. It is concluded that the results are compatible with the view that cocaine enhances the influx of calcium across the cell membrane during responses to agonists that utilize the extracellular pool of calcium and that this effect is responsible for a large part of the potentiation of the response.", "PMID": 435692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2916", "title": "The action of microelectrophoretically applied (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylamino)-2-imidazoline (DPI) on single cortical neurones.", "content": "1. The technique of microelectrophoresis was used in order to compare the actions of the imidazoline derivative, (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylamino)-2-imidazoline (DPI), with those of dopamine and phenylephrine on single neurones in the cerebral cortex of the rat anaesthetized with halothane. 2. DPI and phenylephrine were almost exclusively excitatory, whereas dopamine could evoke both excitatory and depressant responses. 3. In the case of excitatory responses, DPI appeared to be more potent than dopamine, and was approximately equipotent with phenylephrine. 4. The dopamine antagonist, haloperidol, could discriminate between excitatory responses to DPI and dopamine: responses to dopamine were abolished, whereas responses to DPI, and to a control agonist, acetylcholine, were unaffected. 5. The alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist, phenoxybenzamine, antagonized equally excitatory responses to DPI and phenylephrine. Responses to acetylcholine were not affected. 6. It is concluded that DPI does not stimulate dopamine receptors on cortical neurones; the excitatory responses of these cells to DPI may be mediated by alpha-adrenoceptors.", "contents": "The action of microelectrophoretically applied (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylamino)-2-imidazoline (DPI) on single cortical neurones. 1. The technique of microelectrophoresis was used in order to compare the actions of the imidazoline derivative, (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylamino)-2-imidazoline (DPI), with those of dopamine and phenylephrine on single neurones in the cerebral cortex of the rat anaesthetized with halothane. 2. DPI and phenylephrine were almost exclusively excitatory, whereas dopamine could evoke both excitatory and depressant responses. 3. In the case of excitatory responses, DPI appeared to be more potent than dopamine, and was approximately equipotent with phenylephrine. 4. The dopamine antagonist, haloperidol, could discriminate between excitatory responses to DPI and dopamine: responses to dopamine were abolished, whereas responses to DPI, and to a control agonist, acetylcholine, were unaffected. 5. The alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist, phenoxybenzamine, antagonized equally excitatory responses to DPI and phenylephrine. Responses to acetylcholine were not affected. 6. It is concluded that DPI does not stimulate dopamine receptors on cortical neurones; the excitatory responses of these cells to DPI may be mediated by alpha-adrenoceptors.", "PMID": 435693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2917", "title": "Haemophilic arthropathy in the joints of the hands and feet.", "content": "Radiographs of the hands and feet of 72 haemophilic patients were reviewed for peripheral joint involvement. Fifty patients or 69% had changes in the small joints of their hands and/or feet with a total of 160 abnormal joints. In the hands the metacarpo-phalangeal joints were predominantly involved (42 of 50 joints), and in the feet, the metatarso-phalangeal joints (68 of 110 abnormal joints), as well as the posterior subtalar joint (36 of 110 joints). R\u00f6ntgen abnormalities were characterized by irregularity and/or flattening of the articular cortices. The involvement of the small peripheral joint in haemophilic patients has not been a primary consideration in previous clinical and radiographic studies because of the more common and more debilitating changes in the large joints. The recognition of involvement of the small joints is described to avoid misinterpretation of the r\u00f6ntgen findings and to appreciate the incidence of involvement, especially with the increased availability of replacement therapy.", "contents": "Haemophilic arthropathy in the joints of the hands and feet. Radiographs of the hands and feet of 72 haemophilic patients were reviewed for peripheral joint involvement. Fifty patients or 69% had changes in the small joints of their hands and/or feet with a total of 160 abnormal joints. In the hands the metacarpo-phalangeal joints were predominantly involved (42 of 50 joints), and in the feet, the metatarso-phalangeal joints (68 of 110 abnormal joints), as well as the posterior subtalar joint (36 of 110 joints). R\u00f6ntgen abnormalities were characterized by irregularity and/or flattening of the articular cortices. The involvement of the small peripheral joint in haemophilic patients has not been a primary consideration in previous clinical and radiographic studies because of the more common and more debilitating changes in the large joints. The recognition of involvement of the small joints is described to avoid misinterpretation of the r\u00f6ntgen findings and to appreciate the incidence of involvement, especially with the increased availability of replacement therapy.", "PMID": 435694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2918", "title": "Intrathoracic rib: radiographic features of two cases.", "content": "Two cases of intrathoracic rib are presented. In one of these the anomalous rib was not supernumerary, and the investing layers of pleura caused the rib to appear abnormally dense. The relevant literature is briefly reviewed.", "contents": "Intrathoracic rib: radiographic features of two cases. Two cases of intrathoracic rib are presented. In one of these the anomalous rib was not supernumerary, and the investing layers of pleura caused the rib to appear abnormally dense. The relevant literature is briefly reviewed.", "PMID": 435695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2919", "title": "Ultrasound in the detection of chronic liver disease (the \"bright liver\").", "content": "The association of high amplitude echoes returned from the liver and advanced cirrhosis is well recognized. We have become increasingly aware of a bright liver echo pattern in relatively mild cases of cirrhosis and in other chronic liver diseases. The pattern is very characteristic but non-specific in pathological terms. We have undertaken a small pilot study based on the observation of this characteristic ultrasound appearance to assess its clinical significance. Recognition of this pattern has always corresponded with liver disease of one of five types: cirrhosis, fatty infiltration, portal tract fibrosis, severe hepatitis or longstanding congestive cardiac failure. Although the use of ultrasound appears to be sensitive in the detection of generalized liver disease, it is relatively non-specific.", "contents": "Ultrasound in the detection of chronic liver disease (the \"bright liver\"). The association of high amplitude echoes returned from the liver and advanced cirrhosis is well recognized. We have become increasingly aware of a bright liver echo pattern in relatively mild cases of cirrhosis and in other chronic liver diseases. The pattern is very characteristic but non-specific in pathological terms. We have undertaken a small pilot study based on the observation of this characteristic ultrasound appearance to assess its clinical significance. Recognition of this pattern has always corresponded with liver disease of one of five types: cirrhosis, fatty infiltration, portal tract fibrosis, severe hepatitis or longstanding congestive cardiac failure. Although the use of ultrasound appears to be sensitive in the detection of generalized liver disease, it is relatively non-specific.", "PMID": 435696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2920", "title": "The radiation dose to patients from EMI brain and body scanners.", "content": "Absorbed doses throughout the head of a Rando standard man phantom have been measured during simulated neurological examination with the EMI Mk I brain scanner and the second generation CT 1010 brain scanner. Similar measurements have been made with the CT 5005 whole-body scanner which have also included scans through thoracic and abdominal sections of the phantom. Lithium borate thermoluminescent dosimeters placed at regular intervals throughout, and on either side of the scanned volume, have enabled estimates to be made of the total energy imparted to the phantom by each scanner as well as the absorbed dose at various locations including organs of interest in health physics such as the lens of the eye, thyroid and gonads. Isodose curves have been plotted for the central transverse section of each simulated examination. Results are reported for both the standard and high accuracy scan speed options on the two scanners where this choice is available. It would appear that all three machines when operated at their standard scan speeds impart no more energy to the phantom than that associated with a few conventional radiographs of the same part of the body. Maximum skin doses vary from 30 to 56 mGy (3.0 to 5.6 rad) being highest for the CT 1010 scanner. Use of the high accuracy scan option increases the energy imparted and the maximum skin doses by a factor of about five, while providing much enhanced tissue density discrimination. In the case of the body scanner this higher value of energy imparted becomes comparable to that associated with lengthy fluoroscopic examinations like barium enemas. Recent work by EMI involving further refinements to the collimation system has reduced the dose levels by typically 50%. Some preliminary results with this new system are included to indicate the likely degree of improvement, but a detailed account will be the subject of a separate paper.", "contents": "The radiation dose to patients from EMI brain and body scanners. Absorbed doses throughout the head of a Rando standard man phantom have been measured during simulated neurological examination with the EMI Mk I brain scanner and the second generation CT 1010 brain scanner. Similar measurements have been made with the CT 5005 whole-body scanner which have also included scans through thoracic and abdominal sections of the phantom. Lithium borate thermoluminescent dosimeters placed at regular intervals throughout, and on either side of the scanned volume, have enabled estimates to be made of the total energy imparted to the phantom by each scanner as well as the absorbed dose at various locations including organs of interest in health physics such as the lens of the eye, thyroid and gonads. Isodose curves have been plotted for the central transverse section of each simulated examination. Results are reported for both the standard and high accuracy scan speed options on the two scanners where this choice is available. It would appear that all three machines when operated at their standard scan speeds impart no more energy to the phantom than that associated with a few conventional radiographs of the same part of the body. Maximum skin doses vary from 30 to 56 mGy (3.0 to 5.6 rad) being highest for the CT 1010 scanner. Use of the high accuracy scan option increases the energy imparted and the maximum skin doses by a factor of about five, while providing much enhanced tissue density discrimination. In the case of the body scanner this higher value of energy imparted becomes comparable to that associated with lengthy fluoroscopic examinations like barium enemas. Recent work by EMI involving further refinements to the collimation system has reduced the dose levels by typically 50%. Some preliminary results with this new system are included to indicate the likely degree of improvement, but a detailed account will be the subject of a separate paper.", "PMID": 435697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2921", "title": "The response of six mouse tumours to combined heat and X rays: implications for therapy.", "content": "The response of six types of mouse tumour to single doses of X rays alone or to X rays in combination with moderate hyperthermia (42.5 degrees C/60 min) has been assessed using delay in tumour regrowth. Thermal sensitization was observed in five of the six tumours. The degree of sensitization varied with the size of the X-ray dose, being larger at higher doses. The degree of sensitization also depended on the sequence and separation of the heat and irradiation. The thermal sensitization has been measured in terms of the X-ray doses to produce the same level of tumour damage with or without heat, i.e. thermal enhancement ratios. These TER values, measured for X-ray doses in excess of 20 Gy, are not greater in any of the tumours than in a range of normal tissues, if the X rays and heat are given in close succession. Separation of the heat and X rays reduces the TER values slightly, but some effect is still apparent at 3--24 hours. In normal tissues the effect of heat is totally lost within four hours. Comparison of these tumour data with published normal tissue data indicates a therapeutic advantage if the heat and X rays are separated by more than one hour. This therapeutic gain is most reliably achieved and heat given after irradiation.", "contents": "The response of six mouse tumours to combined heat and X rays: implications for therapy. The response of six types of mouse tumour to single doses of X rays alone or to X rays in combination with moderate hyperthermia (42.5 degrees C/60 min) has been assessed using delay in tumour regrowth. Thermal sensitization was observed in five of the six tumours. The degree of sensitization varied with the size of the X-ray dose, being larger at higher doses. The degree of sensitization also depended on the sequence and separation of the heat and irradiation. The thermal sensitization has been measured in terms of the X-ray doses to produce the same level of tumour damage with or without heat, i.e. thermal enhancement ratios. These TER values, measured for X-ray doses in excess of 20 Gy, are not greater in any of the tumours than in a range of normal tissues, if the X rays and heat are given in close succession. Separation of the heat and X rays reduces the TER values slightly, but some effect is still apparent at 3--24 hours. In normal tissues the effect of heat is totally lost within four hours. Comparison of these tumour data with published normal tissue data indicates a therapeutic advantage if the heat and X rays are separated by more than one hour. This therapeutic gain is most reliably achieved and heat given after irradiation.", "PMID": 435698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2922", "title": "The influence of blood flow on temperature distribution in the exteriorized mouse intestine during treatment by hyperthermia.", "content": "The non-uniform effects of hyperthermia observed in mouse intestine when heating is achieved by immersion of an exteriorized loop of jejunum in a hot bath were quantified. Intestinal damage was assayed by crypt destruction and correlated with local temperature and distance from major mesenteric blood vessels. The rate of rise of temperature during heating was much greater in regions far from blood vessels than in those close to vessels. Equilibrium temperatures in regions close to vessels were as much as 2 degrees C below liquid bath temperature. Such temperature differentials agreed well with those predicted from the heterogeneity observed in crypt destruction. Both histological and thermometric data suggest that major blood vessels may influence tissue temperature over a distance of approximately 2 mm and, within this region, temperature gradients of 1 degree C per mm may exist. These findings raise questions concerning the interpretation of previously reported data from water-bath heating of both tumours and normal tissues. They also emphasize the need for consideration of the influence of blood flow on heating patterns during hyperthermal treatment of patients.", "contents": "The influence of blood flow on temperature distribution in the exteriorized mouse intestine during treatment by hyperthermia. The non-uniform effects of hyperthermia observed in mouse intestine when heating is achieved by immersion of an exteriorized loop of jejunum in a hot bath were quantified. Intestinal damage was assayed by crypt destruction and correlated with local temperature and distance from major mesenteric blood vessels. The rate of rise of temperature during heating was much greater in regions far from blood vessels than in those close to vessels. Equilibrium temperatures in regions close to vessels were as much as 2 degrees C below liquid bath temperature. Such temperature differentials agreed well with those predicted from the heterogeneity observed in crypt destruction. Both histological and thermometric data suggest that major blood vessels may influence tissue temperature over a distance of approximately 2 mm and, within this region, temperature gradients of 1 degree C per mm may exist. These findings raise questions concerning the interpretation of previously reported data from water-bath heating of both tumours and normal tissues. They also emphasize the need for consideration of the influence of blood flow on heating patterns during hyperthermal treatment of patients.", "PMID": 435699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2923", "title": "Disease cost in a surgical ward.", "content": "Data relating to the cost of caring for individual patients were collected for all patients in a general surgical ward over a six-month period. From this the cost per patient was calculated for various diseases and was found to be related to duration of stay. Postoperative morbidity was important in determining cost. A system that calculates cost by means of units based on the use of resources rather than by cash cost accounting is probably the most suitable for a clinician who has to monitor resources.", "contents": "Disease cost in a surgical ward. Data relating to the cost of caring for individual patients were collected for all patients in a general surgical ward over a six-month period. From this the cost per patient was calculated for various diseases and was found to be related to duration of stay. Postoperative morbidity was important in determining cost. A system that calculates cost by means of units based on the use of resources rather than by cash cost accounting is probably the most suitable for a clinician who has to monitor resources.", "PMID": 435707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2924", "title": "Therapeutic effect of cimetidine in patients undergoing haemodialysis.", "content": "Blood concentrations of cimetidine were measured and the therapeutic effect of the drug assessed patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis. Thirteen patients were given a single oral 200-mg dose of cimetidine a mean of 2.7 hours before the start of dialysis. Dialysing for 6--12-6 m2 hours led to a mean fall of 71% in blood cimetidine concentration during haemodialysis. Nine patients with various upper gastrointestinal lesions diagnosed endoscopically were treated for up to six weeks with a reduced cimetidine dose of 200 mg 12-hourly; two patients received two courses of treatment. Repeat endoscopy after treatment disclosed satisfactory healing, and the drug did not accumulate. This lower dose regimen is recommended for patients receiving dialysis who develop upper gastrointestinal lesions for which a histamine H2-receptor antagonist is indicated.", "contents": "Therapeutic effect of cimetidine in patients undergoing haemodialysis. Blood concentrations of cimetidine were measured and the therapeutic effect of the drug assessed patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis. Thirteen patients were given a single oral 200-mg dose of cimetidine a mean of 2.7 hours before the start of dialysis. Dialysing for 6--12-6 m2 hours led to a mean fall of 71% in blood cimetidine concentration during haemodialysis. Nine patients with various upper gastrointestinal lesions diagnosed endoscopically were treated for up to six weeks with a reduced cimetidine dose of 200 mg 12-hourly; two patients received two courses of treatment. Repeat endoscopy after treatment disclosed satisfactory healing, and the drug did not accumulate. This lower dose regimen is recommended for patients receiving dialysis who develop upper gastrointestinal lesions for which a histamine H2-receptor antagonist is indicated.", "PMID": 435708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2925", "title": "Hyperuricaemia in hypertension: role of alcohol.", "content": "Hyperuricaemia was present in 18 out of 73 men with untreated mild hypertension and was related significantly to alcohol intake, serum aspartate transaminase activity, and obesity. In the whole group the mean serum urate concentration correlated highly significantly with alcohol intake and activities of serum aspartate and alanine transferases but not with ponderal index, serum creatinine concentration, age, or blood pressure. Hypertension and hyperuricaemia are related at least in part through their common association with frequent alcohol use. A serum urate concentration exceeding 0.5 mmol/l (8--4 mg/100 ml) in a man with untreated hypertension is highly suggestive of heavy alcohol consumption. There was no evidence that hyperuricaemia had a deleterious effect on renal function.", "contents": "Hyperuricaemia in hypertension: role of alcohol. Hyperuricaemia was present in 18 out of 73 men with untreated mild hypertension and was related significantly to alcohol intake, serum aspartate transaminase activity, and obesity. In the whole group the mean serum urate concentration correlated highly significantly with alcohol intake and activities of serum aspartate and alanine transferases but not with ponderal index, serum creatinine concentration, age, or blood pressure. Hypertension and hyperuricaemia are related at least in part through their common association with frequent alcohol use. A serum urate concentration exceeding 0.5 mmol/l (8--4 mg/100 ml) in a man with untreated hypertension is highly suggestive of heavy alcohol consumption. There was no evidence that hyperuricaemia had a deleterious effect on renal function.", "PMID": 435709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2926", "title": "Nutrient intake, adiposity, and diabetes.", "content": "To study the role of nutritional factors in the genesis of diabetes, estimations of blood sugar concentration, food intake, and adiposity (as body mass index; BMI) were carried out on three normal population samples--namely, 961 employees of Beecham Ltd, 1005 employees of the Greater London Council, and 1488 middle-aged male civil servants (Whitehall study). Blood sugar concentrations and indices of glucose tolerance correlated positively with the degree of adiposity but tended to be negatively correlated with total food energy intake and its component nutrients (total carbohydrate, sucrose, and fat). This inverse trend was largely accounted for by highly significant inverse correlations between food energy intake and adiposity, a relation found in both sexes and in all three population samples and which extended across the whole range of nutrient intake and BMI. These findings suggest that greater degrees of adiposity are associated with lower than average food energy intakes and hence lower total energy expenditures. The association of increased adiposity with low food energy consumption may indicate an underlying \"low energy throughput\" state, and it may be the mechanisms of this, as well as the obesity, that are responsible for disease.", "contents": "Nutrient intake, adiposity, and diabetes. To study the role of nutritional factors in the genesis of diabetes, estimations of blood sugar concentration, food intake, and adiposity (as body mass index; BMI) were carried out on three normal population samples--namely, 961 employees of Beecham Ltd, 1005 employees of the Greater London Council, and 1488 middle-aged male civil servants (Whitehall study). Blood sugar concentrations and indices of glucose tolerance correlated positively with the degree of adiposity but tended to be negatively correlated with total food energy intake and its component nutrients (total carbohydrate, sucrose, and fat). This inverse trend was largely accounted for by highly significant inverse correlations between food energy intake and adiposity, a relation found in both sexes and in all three population samples and which extended across the whole range of nutrient intake and BMI. These findings suggest that greater degrees of adiposity are associated with lower than average food energy intakes and hence lower total energy expenditures. The association of increased adiposity with low food energy consumption may indicate an underlying \"low energy throughput\" state, and it may be the mechanisms of this, as well as the obesity, that are responsible for disease.", "PMID": 435710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2927", "title": "Divergent views of hospital staff on detecting and managing hypertension.", "content": "A questionnaire about detecting and managing hypertension was answered by 76 out of 110 (69%) doctors and 116 out of 195 (63%) qualified nurses in a large hospital. There was no general agreement on the method of taking diastolic blood pressures or on the level of hypertension requiring treatment. Most of the clinicians treated mild hypertension, although no proof exists that such treatment is beneficial. Almost everyone questioned agreed that measuring blood pressure in all patients attending hospital is important. Agreement should be reached, however, on which phase of diastolic blood pressure should be used.", "contents": "Divergent views of hospital staff on detecting and managing hypertension. A questionnaire about detecting and managing hypertension was answered by 76 out of 110 (69%) doctors and 116 out of 195 (63%) qualified nurses in a large hospital. There was no general agreement on the method of taking diastolic blood pressures or on the level of hypertension requiring treatment. Most of the clinicians treated mild hypertension, although no proof exists that such treatment is beneficial. Almost everyone questioned agreed that measuring blood pressure in all patients attending hospital is important. Agreement should be reached, however, on which phase of diastolic blood pressure should be used.", "PMID": 435747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2928", "title": "Childhood cancer and drugs in pregnancy.", "content": "A study was carried out on 11 169 matched case-control pairs of children aged up to 15 years included in the Oxford Survey of Childhood Cancers to see whether an association exists between cancer in children and drugs given to their mothers during pregnancy. The mothers of children who developed cancer reported about 25% more illnesses during pregnancy than mothers of healthy control children. Two specific illnesses, pulmonary tuberculosis and epilepsy, were investigated. For these there was a higher than average case-control excess of reports and there had been a suggestion that the drugs used in treatment, isoniazid and phenytoin, might be carcinogenic. The results of this investigation provide no real evidence for any association between the drugs taken by the mothers during pregnancy and subsequent cancer in the child.", "contents": "Childhood cancer and drugs in pregnancy. A study was carried out on 11 169 matched case-control pairs of children aged up to 15 years included in the Oxford Survey of Childhood Cancers to see whether an association exists between cancer in children and drugs given to their mothers during pregnancy. The mothers of children who developed cancer reported about 25% more illnesses during pregnancy than mothers of healthy control children. Two specific illnesses, pulmonary tuberculosis and epilepsy, were investigated. For these there was a higher than average case-control excess of reports and there had been a suggestion that the drugs used in treatment, isoniazid and phenytoin, might be carcinogenic. The results of this investigation provide no real evidence for any association between the drugs taken by the mothers during pregnancy and subsequent cancer in the child.", "PMID": 435748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2929", "title": "Fats and atheroma: a retrial.", "content": "The controversy over medical endorsement of dietary measures to reduce cholesterol intake has been reconsidered. The results of several published reports that apparently do not confirm the association between diet, cholesterol concentrations, and ischaemic heart disease (IHD) were found to be largely inapplicable to the argument. Results of primary prevention trials, however, suggested that lowering the cholesterol concentration had a beneficial effect in reducing morbidity from IHD. The \"average Western diet\" is particularly associated with accelerated or premature atherosclerotic disease, yet the saturated fatty acid component of the diet may be only one of several factors relevant to IHD. Such diets are usually high in refined carbohydrate and total energy intake. Disordered nutrition generally, and other environmental and constitutional factors seem to be important in the aetiology of IHD. A prudent diet, incorporating decreased intake of fats, simple sugars, and refined carbohydrate, with polyunsaturated fats comprising less than 25% of total energy intake, may be the best method of reducing the incidence of IHD and other diseases of overnutrition.", "contents": "Fats and atheroma: a retrial. The controversy over medical endorsement of dietary measures to reduce cholesterol intake has been reconsidered. The results of several published reports that apparently do not confirm the association between diet, cholesterol concentrations, and ischaemic heart disease (IHD) were found to be largely inapplicable to the argument. Results of primary prevention trials, however, suggested that lowering the cholesterol concentration had a beneficial effect in reducing morbidity from IHD. The \"average Western diet\" is particularly associated with accelerated or premature atherosclerotic disease, yet the saturated fatty acid component of the diet may be only one of several factors relevant to IHD. Such diets are usually high in refined carbohydrate and total energy intake. Disordered nutrition generally, and other environmental and constitutional factors seem to be important in the aetiology of IHD. A prudent diet, incorporating decreased intake of fats, simple sugars, and refined carbohydrate, with polyunsaturated fats comprising less than 25% of total energy intake, may be the best method of reducing the incidence of IHD and other diseases of overnutrition.", "PMID": 435754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2930", "title": "Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: its effects on patient management.", "content": "Out of 95 patients referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy after a barium-meal examination, 44 underwent a change in management. Some changes were minor but in 12 patients a decision on surgery was required. Seven of these patients were among a group of 13 for whom the referring consultant would have recommended laparotomy had endoscopy not been available, while the other five were subjected to an unplanned laparotomy. These findings support the practice of performing endoscopy on patients whose symptoms are not fully explained by barium-meal examination, especially patients aged over 45. In such cases the procedure also seems to be cost-effective.", "contents": "Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: its effects on patient management. Out of 95 patients referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy after a barium-meal examination, 44 underwent a change in management. Some changes were minor but in 12 patients a decision on surgery was required. Seven of these patients were among a group of 13 for whom the referring consultant would have recommended laparotomy had endoscopy not been available, while the other five were subjected to an unplanned laparotomy. These findings support the practice of performing endoscopy on patients whose symptoms are not fully explained by barium-meal examination, especially patients aged over 45. In such cases the procedure also seems to be cost-effective.", "PMID": 435792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2931", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen in breast-cancer tissue: a useful prognostic indicator.", "content": "Sections of breast carcinomas removed from 69 patients six to 13 years previously were examined using an immunoperoxidase technique to determine whether carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was present. Patients who had CEA-negative tumours had significantly higher five- and 10-year survival rates. The difference was not related to the stage of the disease, postoperative treatment, or histological type of tumour. These results suggest that immunohistological assessment of CEA in breast-cancer tissue may provide more precise prognostic information.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen in breast-cancer tissue: a useful prognostic indicator. Sections of breast carcinomas removed from 69 patients six to 13 years previously were examined using an immunoperoxidase technique to determine whether carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was present. Patients who had CEA-negative tumours had significantly higher five- and 10-year survival rates. The difference was not related to the stage of the disease, postoperative treatment, or histological type of tumour. These results suggest that immunohistological assessment of CEA in breast-cancer tissue may provide more precise prognostic information.", "PMID": 435793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2932", "title": "Occult aortic stenosis as cause of intractable heart failure.", "content": "During a three-year period 10 patients with critical aortic stenosis were referred to a cardiac referral centre with symptoms and signs of intractable cardiac failure and low cardiac output. In nine patients the correct diagnosis was not suspected at the referring hospital, and in the remaining patient the true severity of the aortic stenosis was not appreciated and cardiomyopathy was suggested as an additional diagnosis. The most common referral diagnoses were severe mitral regurgitation (four patients), congestive cardiomyopathy (two patients), or both (three patients). Only two patients had soft ejection systolic murmurs at the base of the heart radiating into the neck, and such a murmur appeared in a third patient during medical treatment. The carotid pulses were of small volume but the characteristic slow-rising, anacrotic nature of the pulse could not be appreciated clinically. The diagnosis was suspected in nine patients because of aortic valve calcification detected by lateral chest x-ray examination in seven patients and by x-ray screening of the heart in two, and because of abnormal aortic valve echoes in the echocardiogram of all five patients in whom the aortic valve could be seen. Eight patients underwent aortic valve replacement despite seemingly poor preoperative left ventricular function. Three patients died, of whom two had severe coexistent coronary artery disease. The five survivors all returned to normal lives and needed little or no medication.Critical aortic stenosis should be actively sought in patients with severe heart failure of unknown cause since surgery may enable them to resume their normal lives.", "contents": "Occult aortic stenosis as cause of intractable heart failure. During a three-year period 10 patients with critical aortic stenosis were referred to a cardiac referral centre with symptoms and signs of intractable cardiac failure and low cardiac output. In nine patients the correct diagnosis was not suspected at the referring hospital, and in the remaining patient the true severity of the aortic stenosis was not appreciated and cardiomyopathy was suggested as an additional diagnosis. The most common referral diagnoses were severe mitral regurgitation (four patients), congestive cardiomyopathy (two patients), or both (three patients). Only two patients had soft ejection systolic murmurs at the base of the heart radiating into the neck, and such a murmur appeared in a third patient during medical treatment. The carotid pulses were of small volume but the characteristic slow-rising, anacrotic nature of the pulse could not be appreciated clinically. The diagnosis was suspected in nine patients because of aortic valve calcification detected by lateral chest x-ray examination in seven patients and by x-ray screening of the heart in two, and because of abnormal aortic valve echoes in the echocardiogram of all five patients in whom the aortic valve could be seen. Eight patients underwent aortic valve replacement despite seemingly poor preoperative left ventricular function. Three patients died, of whom two had severe coexistent coronary artery disease. The five survivors all returned to normal lives and needed little or no medication.Critical aortic stenosis should be actively sought in patients with severe heart failure of unknown cause since surgery may enable them to resume their normal lives.", "PMID": 435794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2933", "title": "Variation in hospital stay after inguinal herniorrhaphy.", "content": "A study was carried out of 1086 men aged 16-65 inclusive who were admitted under nine consultants to eight hospitals in Wessex for elective repair of an inguinal hernia. The mean postoperative stay was 5.7 +/- SD 2.7 days. For different consultants operating at any one hospital the mean postoperative stays were similar, whereas for consultants who operated at more than one hospital they were significantly different. The postoperative stay was also significantly related to the size of the hospital, development of postoperative complications, time spent on the waiting list, type of repair used, bilateral herniorrhapy, and the use of convalescent facilities. The hospital therefore appears to exercise a greater influence in determining the mean postoperative stay than does the individual consultant.", "contents": "Variation in hospital stay after inguinal herniorrhaphy. A study was carried out of 1086 men aged 16-65 inclusive who were admitted under nine consultants to eight hospitals in Wessex for elective repair of an inguinal hernia. The mean postoperative stay was 5.7 +/- SD 2.7 days. For different consultants operating at any one hospital the mean postoperative stays were similar, whereas for consultants who operated at more than one hospital they were significantly different. The postoperative stay was also significantly related to the size of the hospital, development of postoperative complications, time spent on the waiting list, type of repair used, bilateral herniorrhapy, and the use of convalescent facilities. The hospital therefore appears to exercise a greater influence in determining the mean postoperative stay than does the individual consultant.", "PMID": 435795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2934", "title": "What shall we teach undergraduates?", "content": "The opinions of 600 randomly selected doctors on what should be taught to undergraduates in clinical years were analysed. The respondents gave a high priority to general medicine, paediatrics, general surgery, casualty, and gynaecology, but a low priority to forensic medicine, plastic surgery, radiotherapy, anaesthetics, radiology, and rehabilitation medicine. Doctors thought that these should be taught to postgraduates. The two major groupings of doctors--general practitioners and consultants--gave essentially the same priorities. Undergraduate curricula cannot include all major specialities, so the results of this analysis may provide a useful basis for selecting the most suitable subjects. Criteria for including other specialties might be the ability and enthusiasm of the teachers and well-thought-out and academically sound teaching programmes.", "contents": "What shall we teach undergraduates? The opinions of 600 randomly selected doctors on what should be taught to undergraduates in clinical years were analysed. The respondents gave a high priority to general medicine, paediatrics, general surgery, casualty, and gynaecology, but a low priority to forensic medicine, plastic surgery, radiotherapy, anaesthetics, radiology, and rehabilitation medicine. Doctors thought that these should be taught to postgraduates. The two major groupings of doctors--general practitioners and consultants--gave essentially the same priorities. Undergraduate curricula cannot include all major specialities, so the results of this analysis may provide a useful basis for selecting the most suitable subjects. Criteria for including other specialties might be the ability and enthusiasm of the teachers and well-thought-out and academically sound teaching programmes.", "PMID": 435803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2935", "title": "Blood-pressure screening and supervision in general practice.", "content": "Since April 1975 all men aged 35-69 years registered with four general practices in west central Scotland have had their blood pressure checked whenever they visit the surgery. Although the practice locations range from rural to city centre and observers comprise receptionists, nurses, and doctors, a standard procedure has been adopted for the examination, recording, follow-up, and management of high blood pressure. The results confirm that raised blood pressure is common and often goes undetected. Even when hypertension is known, casual blood pressure readings often exceed accepted normal levels. The findings also show that a population may be routinely examined through normal contact with the family doctor, and that this can provide a convenient, acceptable, and effective means of detecting and reducing raised blood pressure.", "contents": "Blood-pressure screening and supervision in general practice. Since April 1975 all men aged 35-69 years registered with four general practices in west central Scotland have had their blood pressure checked whenever they visit the surgery. Although the practice locations range from rural to city centre and observers comprise receptionists, nurses, and doctors, a standard procedure has been adopted for the examination, recording, follow-up, and management of high blood pressure. The results confirm that raised blood pressure is common and often goes undetected. Even when hypertension is known, casual blood pressure readings often exceed accepted normal levels. The findings also show that a population may be routinely examined through normal contact with the family doctor, and that this can provide a convenient, acceptable, and effective means of detecting and reducing raised blood pressure.", "PMID": 435839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2936", "title": "Value of cytology for detecting endometrial abnormalities in climacteric women receiving hormone replacement therapy.", "content": "Over six months 113 endometrial specimens from 110 menopausal women receiving hormone replacement therapy were examined by two cytologists and two histopathologists. Specimens were obtained by aspiration with the Isaacs cell sampler immediately before Vabra suction curettage, both procedures being performed in the outpatient department without anaesthetic. The histologists agreed with each other on the classification of 85 specimens (75.2%) and the cytologists agreed on the classification of 44 (38.9%). In only 15 cases (13.3%) did all four observers agree. Of the three cases of cystic or adenomatous hyperplasia detected histologically, only one was diagnosed by cytology. Furthermore, both cases of adenocarcinoma escaped detection by cytology, though a third case--later confirmed-\"was suspected by one cytologist alone. Use of the Isaacs endometrial cell sampler cannot be advocated for routine screening of women with climacteric symptoms receiving hormone replacement therapy. Efforts should be made to establish the correct dose and duration of treatment with an oestrogen-progestogen preparation in order to avoid over-stimulating the endometrium and the need for regular screening for endometrial abnormalities.", "contents": "Value of cytology for detecting endometrial abnormalities in climacteric women receiving hormone replacement therapy. Over six months 113 endometrial specimens from 110 menopausal women receiving hormone replacement therapy were examined by two cytologists and two histopathologists. Specimens were obtained by aspiration with the Isaacs cell sampler immediately before Vabra suction curettage, both procedures being performed in the outpatient department without anaesthetic. The histologists agreed with each other on the classification of 85 specimens (75.2%) and the cytologists agreed on the classification of 44 (38.9%). In only 15 cases (13.3%) did all four observers agree. Of the three cases of cystic or adenomatous hyperplasia detected histologically, only one was diagnosed by cytology. Furthermore, both cases of adenocarcinoma escaped detection by cytology, though a third case--later confirmed-\"was suspected by one cytologist alone. Use of the Isaacs endometrial cell sampler cannot be advocated for routine screening of women with climacteric symptoms receiving hormone replacement therapy. Efforts should be made to establish the correct dose and duration of treatment with an oestrogen-progestogen preparation in order to avoid over-stimulating the endometrium and the need for regular screening for endometrial abnormalities.", "PMID": 435840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2937", "title": "Changes in fatty-acid composition of body fat before and after birth in Tanzania: an international comparative study.", "content": "Changes in the fatty-acid composition of human adipose tissue before birth and during infancy and childhood were studied in Tanzania and compared with data for British and Dutch infants in relation to their diet. From the 32nd to the 37th week of gestation in Tanzania the proportion in the body fat of the unsaturated fatty acid linoleic acid tended to rise, suggesting an adequate supply of this essential fatty acid from the mother to the fetus. At term 2.5% of the total fatty acids of the body fat was linoleic acid, which corresponded with values in Dutch newborn infants but was significantly higher than those in British infants. During infancy in Tanzania the composition of the fat showed a dramatic increase in the proportions of the saturated fatty acids lauric acid and myristic acid, which did not occur in Dutch and British infants. The proportion of linoleic acid increased to 8%. These changes were a reflection of the fatty-acid composition of the fat in the human milk that the infants received. During weaning (1-2 years of age) the fatty-acid composition changed only slightly. The specific fatty-acid composition of the fat in Tanzanian breast milk may have a beneficial influence on the extent of intestinal absorption in the newborn child.", "contents": "Changes in fatty-acid composition of body fat before and after birth in Tanzania: an international comparative study. Changes in the fatty-acid composition of human adipose tissue before birth and during infancy and childhood were studied in Tanzania and compared with data for British and Dutch infants in relation to their diet. From the 32nd to the 37th week of gestation in Tanzania the proportion in the body fat of the unsaturated fatty acid linoleic acid tended to rise, suggesting an adequate supply of this essential fatty acid from the mother to the fetus. At term 2.5% of the total fatty acids of the body fat was linoleic acid, which corresponded with values in Dutch newborn infants but was significantly higher than those in British infants. During infancy in Tanzania the composition of the fat showed a dramatic increase in the proportions of the saturated fatty acids lauric acid and myristic acid, which did not occur in Dutch and British infants. The proportion of linoleic acid increased to 8%. These changes were a reflection of the fatty-acid composition of the fat in the human milk that the infants received. During weaning (1-2 years of age) the fatty-acid composition changed only slightly. The specific fatty-acid composition of the fat in Tanzanian breast milk may have a beneficial influence on the extent of intestinal absorption in the newborn child.", "PMID": 435841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2938", "title": "Campylobacter colitis.", "content": "Eleven consecutive patients with diarrhoea from whose stools campylobacter were isolated were investigated by sigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsy. Eight had definite proctitis, and in seven biopsy specimens were abnormal with histological changes ranging from non-specific colitis to gross colitis with goblet-cell depletion and crypt-abscess formation. Nine of the patients passed blood in their stools, and in all but one abdominal pain was a feature of the illness. Severe campylobacter colitis may be clinically, sigmoidoscopically, and histologically difficult to differentiate from ulcerative colitis and is a differential diagnosis in acute colitis.", "contents": "Campylobacter colitis. Eleven consecutive patients with diarrhoea from whose stools campylobacter were isolated were investigated by sigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsy. Eight had definite proctitis, and in seven biopsy specimens were abnormal with histological changes ranging from non-specific colitis to gross colitis with goblet-cell depletion and crypt-abscess formation. Nine of the patients passed blood in their stools, and in all but one abdominal pain was a feature of the illness. Severe campylobacter colitis may be clinically, sigmoidoscopically, and histologically difficult to differentiate from ulcerative colitis and is a differential diagnosis in acute colitis.", "PMID": 435842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2939", "title": "Optimal timing of doses of chenic acid in patients with gall stones.", "content": "Sixteen patients with gall stones were treated with chenic acid (14-16 mg/kg/day) given at three different times in random order for one month each. Before treatment the mean (+/- SE of mean) cholesterol saturation index (SI) of fasting gall-bladder bile was 1.28 +/- 0.06. During bedtime administration of chenic acid the mean SI fell to 0.78 +/- 0.04, which was significantly lower than that obtained with administration in the morning (0.92 +/- 0.05) or with three divided doses at mealtimes (0.92 +/- 0.04). The bile remained supersaturated in seven patients when they received a single morning dose, in five patients when they received mealtime doses, but in only one patient when a single bedtime dose was given. There was no significant difference in side effects between the three different dose timings, or in the proportion of bile acids present in the bile as chenic acid. This enhanced effect obtained with bedtime administration may be due to the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids being maintained during overnight fasting.", "contents": "Optimal timing of doses of chenic acid in patients with gall stones. Sixteen patients with gall stones were treated with chenic acid (14-16 mg/kg/day) given at three different times in random order for one month each. Before treatment the mean (+/- SE of mean) cholesterol saturation index (SI) of fasting gall-bladder bile was 1.28 +/- 0.06. During bedtime administration of chenic acid the mean SI fell to 0.78 +/- 0.04, which was significantly lower than that obtained with administration in the morning (0.92 +/- 0.05) or with three divided doses at mealtimes (0.92 +/- 0.04). The bile remained supersaturated in seven patients when they received a single morning dose, in five patients when they received mealtime doses, but in only one patient when a single bedtime dose was given. There was no significant difference in side effects between the three different dose timings, or in the proportion of bile acids present in the bile as chenic acid. This enhanced effect obtained with bedtime administration may be due to the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids being maintained during overnight fasting.", "PMID": 435882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2940", "title": "Respiratory influence on heart rate in diabetes mellitus.", "content": "To find a simple and accurate test of autonomic nervous dysfunction in diabetes mellitus, 41 insulin-dependent diabetics and 25 controls were investigated. The diabetics, none of whom had symptoms of autonomic dysfunction, were tested for retinopathy and sensory neuropathy. Each subject also performed maximal deep-breathing procedures while undergoing electrocardiographic recording: in normal subjects the intervals are shortened during inspiration and prolonged during expiration, and a difference in the heart rate between inspiration and expiration of 10% or less seems to indicate autonomic dysfunction. This difference was calculated as an E:I ratio of the mean of the longest R-R interval during maximal expiration to the mean of the shortest during maximal inspiration. Ten of the 18 patients found to have sensory neuropathy had abnormal E:I ratios, and among those with absent ankle reflexes the proportion was even higher (9 out of 11). The E:I ratio also seemed to be as accurate as traditional tests for autonomic dysfunction and easier to perform. Diabetics with autonomic dysfunction have an increased risk of acute cardiorespiratory death during and after surgery, and maximal deep breathing and calculation of the E:I ratio may be a useful test to perform on diabetics at risk.", "contents": "Respiratory influence on heart rate in diabetes mellitus. To find a simple and accurate test of autonomic nervous dysfunction in diabetes mellitus, 41 insulin-dependent diabetics and 25 controls were investigated. The diabetics, none of whom had symptoms of autonomic dysfunction, were tested for retinopathy and sensory neuropathy. Each subject also performed maximal deep-breathing procedures while undergoing electrocardiographic recording: in normal subjects the intervals are shortened during inspiration and prolonged during expiration, and a difference in the heart rate between inspiration and expiration of 10% or less seems to indicate autonomic dysfunction. This difference was calculated as an E:I ratio of the mean of the longest R-R interval during maximal expiration to the mean of the shortest during maximal inspiration. Ten of the 18 patients found to have sensory neuropathy had abnormal E:I ratios, and among those with absent ankle reflexes the proportion was even higher (9 out of 11). The E:I ratio also seemed to be as accurate as traditional tests for autonomic dysfunction and easier to perform. Diabetics with autonomic dysfunction have an increased risk of acute cardiorespiratory death during and after surgery, and maximal deep breathing and calculation of the E:I ratio may be a useful test to perform on diabetics at risk.", "PMID": 435883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2941", "title": "Diabetes after infectious hepatitis: a follow-up study.", "content": "Eleven patients (nine men, one woman, and one girl) aged 11-62 years who developed diabetes mellitus after an attack of infectious hepatitis during the Eastern Nigerian epidemic of 1970-2 were followed up for two to nine years. One patient aged 60 years remained diabetic after the original illness. In the remaining 10 patients the diabetes remitted after three to nine months (mean 6.7 months) but in four it recurred after a remission lasting one and a half to four years (mean 2.6 years). Results of this follow-up study seem to confirm that the pancreas is sometimes permanently damaged during infectious hepatitis.", "contents": "Diabetes after infectious hepatitis: a follow-up study. Eleven patients (nine men, one woman, and one girl) aged 11-62 years who developed diabetes mellitus after an attack of infectious hepatitis during the Eastern Nigerian epidemic of 1970-2 were followed up for two to nine years. One patient aged 60 years remained diabetic after the original illness. In the remaining 10 patients the diabetes remitted after three to nine months (mean 6.7 months) but in four it recurred after a remission lasting one and a half to four years (mean 2.6 years). Results of this follow-up study seem to confirm that the pancreas is sometimes permanently damaged during infectious hepatitis.", "PMID": 435884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2942", "title": "Relatives and friends group in a psychiatric ward.", "content": "To enable relatives and friends of psychiatric patients in a 30-bed acute admission ward to meet the staff team together a relatives and friends group was initiated. The group was intended to provide a forum for questions about the patients' illness and treatment; allow feelings, such as anger and anxiety, about the patient's illness to be expressed; and enable relatives and friends to share their experiences and offer advice and support to each other. A study was designed to assess the feasibility of the group scheme. Relatives and friends were invited to the day room of the admission ward each Wednesday evening for one hour. The visitors chose their own topics for discussion and the staff team tried to answer questions and to facilitate a free exchange of views. An account of each meeting was documented, including details of attenders, the nature of the topics raised, and a simple measurement of some of the emotions expressed by the visitors. Overall, the effect of the meetings seemed positive and productive, for they allowed relatives and friends to ask questions about many topics, to express pent-up emotions, and to gain a better understanding and tolerance of the patient's illness. The relatives and friends group has become an integral part of treatment on the wards. Now that the feasibility of such a group is established, further studies are required to evaluate its efficacy.", "contents": "Relatives and friends group in a psychiatric ward. To enable relatives and friends of psychiatric patients in a 30-bed acute admission ward to meet the staff team together a relatives and friends group was initiated. The group was intended to provide a forum for questions about the patients' illness and treatment; allow feelings, such as anger and anxiety, about the patient's illness to be expressed; and enable relatives and friends to share their experiences and offer advice and support to each other. A study was designed to assess the feasibility of the group scheme. Relatives and friends were invited to the day room of the admission ward each Wednesday evening for one hour. The visitors chose their own topics for discussion and the staff team tried to answer questions and to facilitate a free exchange of views. An account of each meeting was documented, including details of attenders, the nature of the topics raised, and a simple measurement of some of the emotions expressed by the visitors. Overall, the effect of the meetings seemed positive and productive, for they allowed relatives and friends to ask questions about many topics, to express pent-up emotions, and to gain a better understanding and tolerance of the patient's illness. The relatives and friends group has become an integral part of treatment on the wards. Now that the feasibility of such a group is established, further studies are required to evaluate its efficacy.", "PMID": 435887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2943", "title": "Psoriasis and cancer.", "content": "The incidence of skin cancer in patients with psoriasis seems to be low, despite repeated use of known carcinogens in treating the disorder. This may be due to a reduced capacity of psoriatic skin to metabolise precarcinogens because of impaired arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) activity. If this hypothesis is correct, and impaired AHH activity in psoriatic skin is shared by other tissues, the incidence of cancers associated with environmental carcinogens may also be reduced in patients with psoriasis. Since the disease is probably genetically transmitted as a dominant trait, it may have persisted because it confers genetic advantage. This hypothesis, though speculative, provides a basis for further study.", "contents": "Psoriasis and cancer. The incidence of skin cancer in patients with psoriasis seems to be low, despite repeated use of known carcinogens in treating the disorder. This may be due to a reduced capacity of psoriatic skin to metabolise precarcinogens because of impaired arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) activity. If this hypothesis is correct, and impaired AHH activity in psoriatic skin is shared by other tissues, the incidence of cancers associated with environmental carcinogens may also be reduced in patients with psoriasis. Since the disease is probably genetically transmitted as a dominant trait, it may have persisted because it confers genetic advantage. This hypothesis, though speculative, provides a basis for further study.", "PMID": 435889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2944", "title": "Continuous narcotic infusions for relief of postoperative pain.", "content": "Relief of acute pain after surgery or trauma is still inadequate in many centres, most patients being treated with intermittent intramuscular injections of narcotic analgesics. Over the past three years continuous intravenous narcotic infusions have been used at this hospital to treat postoperative pain; recently a system has been devised whereby an hourly dose is given and the dispenser recharged every hour. The method used is cheap and reliable, and signs of overdosage may be easily checked by nursing staff. Side effects rarely occur. Fifty patients who had received intravenous infusions after undergoing major abdominal surgery were sent a questionnaire to assess postoperative pain, and the results were compared with those from 50 matched controls who had received intramuscular injections. Of those who replied, only four patients who had received the infusion had found the pain distressing compared with 13 controls. Continuous narcotic infusions are most effective in relieving postoperative pain and may be given cheaply and reliably.", "contents": "Continuous narcotic infusions for relief of postoperative pain. Relief of acute pain after surgery or trauma is still inadequate in many centres, most patients being treated with intermittent intramuscular injections of narcotic analgesics. Over the past three years continuous intravenous narcotic infusions have been used at this hospital to treat postoperative pain; recently a system has been devised whereby an hourly dose is given and the dispenser recharged every hour. The method used is cheap and reliable, and signs of overdosage may be easily checked by nursing staff. Side effects rarely occur. Fifty patients who had received intravenous infusions after undergoing major abdominal surgery were sent a questionnaire to assess postoperative pain, and the results were compared with those from 50 matched controls who had received intramuscular injections. Of those who replied, only four patients who had received the infusion had found the pain distressing compared with 13 controls. Continuous narcotic infusions are most effective in relieving postoperative pain and may be given cheaply and reliably.", "PMID": 435951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2945", "title": "Glycosylated haemoglobin concentrations in newly diagnosed diabetics before and during treatment.", "content": "Concentrations of total glycosylated haemoglobins (Hb A1) were measured in 40 diabetics at diagnosis and at monthly intervals after treatment with chlorpropamide, insulin, or diet alone was begun. The mean Hb A1 concentration at presentation in 16 patients treated with chlorpropamide was significantly higher than that in 12 patients treated with insulin, and the duration of glycaemic symptoms was much longer in the chlorpropamide-treated group. In contrast, the mean plasma glucose concentration was similar in both groups. The mean concentrations of Hb A1 and plasma glucose at diagnosis in the 12 patients treated by diet alone were lower than those in the other two groups, and most of these patients were free of symptoms. Treatment quickly relieved symptoms and lowered plasma glucose in all patients. The Hb A1 concentration fell significantly with treatment such that after two months there was no significant difference between the three groups, although results remained above the normal range. These findings support the theory that the Hb A1 concentration reflects the blood glucose control over the previous one to two months and suggest that the duration of hyperglycaemia may be important in determining the Hb A1 concentration as well as the absolute blood glucose concentration.", "contents": "Glycosylated haemoglobin concentrations in newly diagnosed diabetics before and during treatment. Concentrations of total glycosylated haemoglobins (Hb A1) were measured in 40 diabetics at diagnosis and at monthly intervals after treatment with chlorpropamide, insulin, or diet alone was begun. The mean Hb A1 concentration at presentation in 16 patients treated with chlorpropamide was significantly higher than that in 12 patients treated with insulin, and the duration of glycaemic symptoms was much longer in the chlorpropamide-treated group. In contrast, the mean plasma glucose concentration was similar in both groups. The mean concentrations of Hb A1 and plasma glucose at diagnosis in the 12 patients treated by diet alone were lower than those in the other two groups, and most of these patients were free of symptoms. Treatment quickly relieved symptoms and lowered plasma glucose in all patients. The Hb A1 concentration fell significantly with treatment such that after two months there was no significant difference between the three groups, although results remained above the normal range. These findings support the theory that the Hb A1 concentration reflects the blood glucose control over the previous one to two months and suggest that the duration of hyperglycaemia may be important in determining the Hb A1 concentration as well as the absolute blood glucose concentration.", "PMID": 435952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2946", "title": "Evaluation of two regimens to immobilise the knee after injections of yttrium-90.", "content": "Two regimens to immobilise the knee after injection were compared in patients receiving intra-articular yttrium-90 for persistent synovitis of the knee, the patients being randomly allocated to receive either complete bed rest or full mobilisation with the affected knee in a firm splint. There was no difference in the percentage of the radioisotope retained in the knee or in that taken up by other tissues between the two regimens. It is concluded that after intra-articular injections of yttrium-90 strict bed rest in hospital is unnecessary.", "contents": "Evaluation of two regimens to immobilise the knee after injections of yttrium-90. Two regimens to immobilise the knee after injection were compared in patients receiving intra-articular yttrium-90 for persistent synovitis of the knee, the patients being randomly allocated to receive either complete bed rest or full mobilisation with the affected knee in a firm splint. There was no difference in the percentage of the radioisotope retained in the knee or in that taken up by other tissues between the two regimens. It is concluded that after intra-articular injections of yttrium-90 strict bed rest in hospital is unnecessary.", "PMID": 435953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2947", "title": "Mobile orthoptic service for primary screening of visual disorder in young children.", "content": "A mobile orthoptic service was begun in 1976. General practitioners, clinic doctors, and health visitors referred 4544 preschool children to the service in 18 months. Of the children referred, no defect was detected in 3138 (69%), 927 (20%) were recalled for a second assessment within 12 months, and 479 (11%) were referred for treatment. Out of 261 who received treatment in Oxford, 24 (9%) received aftercare. Benefits of the service included a 25% decrease during 1976-7 in inappropriate referrals of preschool children to the specialist hospital. The chance of inappropriate referral was reduced by a factor of 30 if a child was referred to the mobile service instead of to the eye hospital. A prevention programme such as the mobile orthoptic service can improve the rate of detection of visual disorder in young children, while providing the support needed by primary-care doctors and nurses for visual screening of preschool children easily and cheaply.", "contents": "Mobile orthoptic service for primary screening of visual disorder in young children. A mobile orthoptic service was begun in 1976. General practitioners, clinic doctors, and health visitors referred 4544 preschool children to the service in 18 months. Of the children referred, no defect was detected in 3138 (69%), 927 (20%) were recalled for a second assessment within 12 months, and 479 (11%) were referred for treatment. Out of 261 who received treatment in Oxford, 24 (9%) received aftercare. Benefits of the service included a 25% decrease during 1976-7 in inappropriate referrals of preschool children to the specialist hospital. The chance of inappropriate referral was reduced by a factor of 30 if a child was referred to the mobile service instead of to the eye hospital. A prevention programme such as the mobile orthoptic service can improve the rate of detection of visual disorder in young children, while providing the support needed by primary-care doctors and nurses for visual screening of preschool children easily and cheaply.", "PMID": 435959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2948", "title": "The object of the sensory cortex.", "content": "The phenomenon of \"transfer\" is used to draw attention to the point that whereas the brain stem animal can solve a variety of individual problem ad hoc, only the intact animal appears to be able to use the result of one problem to solve a closely related problem. It is suggested that this is because information is organized in the cortex as objects and concepts, rather than as a set of more or less elaborate features. The shortcomings of a hierarchical system of feature detectors as a model of cortical organization are examined, and compared with a distributive model. It is pointed out that our ways of thinking about complex tones--e.g. their pitch and harmonic structure--is related to the fact that sound suffers a Fourier transform at the cochlea, and it is this transform which is represented in the brain stem. It is suggested that an analogous integral transform may equally naturally represent the data as \"objects\" in the cortex. The resistance of such transforms to degradation by ablation, and the implication for single neurone behaviour are discussed.", "contents": "The object of the sensory cortex. The phenomenon of \"transfer\" is used to draw attention to the point that whereas the brain stem animal can solve a variety of individual problem ad hoc, only the intact animal appears to be able to use the result of one problem to solve a closely related problem. It is suggested that this is because information is organized in the cortex as objects and concepts, rather than as a set of more or less elaborate features. The shortcomings of a hierarchical system of feature detectors as a model of cortical organization are examined, and compared with a distributive model. It is pointed out that our ways of thinking about complex tones--e.g. their pitch and harmonic structure--is related to the fact that sound suffers a Fourier transform at the cochlea, and it is this transform which is represented in the brain stem. It is suggested that an analogous integral transform may equally naturally represent the data as \"objects\" in the cortex. The resistance of such transforms to degradation by ablation, and the implication for single neurone behaviour are discussed.", "PMID": 435970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2949", "title": "Ontogenetic aspects on visual \"size-constancy\" phenomena in the midwife toad Alytes obstetricans (Laur.).", "content": "About 2 weeks after metamorphosis, midwife toads Alytes obstetricans judge the size of a prey object mainly in scales of visual angle. For distant objects they show a tendency to respond to absolute object size. About 6 months later the juvenile animals are able to judge absolute prey size in relation to the stimulus distance (\"size constancy\" phenomenon). This ability is not necessarily based on learning or previous experience.", "contents": "Ontogenetic aspects on visual \"size-constancy\" phenomena in the midwife toad Alytes obstetricans (Laur.). About 2 weeks after metamorphosis, midwife toads Alytes obstetricans judge the size of a prey object mainly in scales of visual angle. For distant objects they show a tendency to respond to absolute object size. About 6 months later the juvenile animals are able to judge absolute prey size in relation to the stimulus distance (\"size constancy\" phenomenon). This ability is not necessarily based on learning or previous experience.", "PMID": 435971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2950", "title": "Ultrastructural study of degeneration and regeneration in the amphibian tectum.", "content": "The processes of degeneration and reinnervation in the optic tectum of Xenopus laevis have been detailed by quantitative ultrastructural analysis. The tecta were denervated either permanently, by removing the contralateral eye, or temporarily, by cutting the optic tract. After denervation the total number of synapses decreases rapidly within 4 days of a stable level of about 40% of the original number. Vacated postsynaptic sites are subsequently removed by phagocytosis. When regenerating axons arrive in the tectum they make synaptic contact by inducing new postsynaptic membrane specializations. The ultrastructural sequence of reinnervation by optic axons resembles initial synaptogenesis.", "contents": "Ultrastructural study of degeneration and regeneration in the amphibian tectum. The processes of degeneration and reinnervation in the optic tectum of Xenopus laevis have been detailed by quantitative ultrastructural analysis. The tecta were denervated either permanently, by removing the contralateral eye, or temporarily, by cutting the optic tract. After denervation the total number of synapses decreases rapidly within 4 days of a stable level of about 40% of the original number. Vacated postsynaptic sites are subsequently removed by phagocytosis. When regenerating axons arrive in the tectum they make synaptic contact by inducing new postsynaptic membrane specializations. The ultrastructural sequence of reinnervation by optic axons resembles initial synaptogenesis.", "PMID": 435978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2951", "title": "Loss of axosomatic synapses in the dentate gyrus of aged rats.", "content": "Axosomatic synapses involving granule cells of the dentate gyrus were studied by means of quantitative electron microscopic analysis in young adult (3-month-old) and aged (25-month-old) rats. The number of axosomatic synapses per unit length of neuronal soma membrane was found to be significantly lower (by 15%) in aged animals than in young adults. This decrease in synaptic numbers is not associated with age-related changes in the size of neuronal soma profiles or in the length of their plasma membranes. The ratio between the total length of synaptic appositions and the membrane length of a neuronal soma profile was diminished by 22% in aged rats, whereas the mean length of synaptic apposition was 10% less in these animals than in young adults. These data, taken together, suggest that an absolute loss of axosomatic synapses occurs with advanced age. It appears, therefore, than not only the loss of axodendritic synapses, described previously, but also the loss of axosomatic synapses, found here, contributes to the process of age-related partial deafferentation of neurons in the rat dentate gyrus.", "contents": "Loss of axosomatic synapses in the dentate gyrus of aged rats. Axosomatic synapses involving granule cells of the dentate gyrus were studied by means of quantitative electron microscopic analysis in young adult (3-month-old) and aged (25-month-old) rats. The number of axosomatic synapses per unit length of neuronal soma membrane was found to be significantly lower (by 15%) in aged animals than in young adults. This decrease in synaptic numbers is not associated with age-related changes in the size of neuronal soma profiles or in the length of their plasma membranes. The ratio between the total length of synaptic appositions and the membrane length of a neuronal soma profile was diminished by 22% in aged rats, whereas the mean length of synaptic apposition was 10% less in these animals than in young adults. These data, taken together, suggest that an absolute loss of axosomatic synapses occurs with advanced age. It appears, therefore, than not only the loss of axodendritic synapses, described previously, but also the loss of axosomatic synapses, found here, contributes to the process of age-related partial deafferentation of neurons in the rat dentate gyrus.", "PMID": 435979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2952", "title": "Glutamate as a CNS transmitter. I. Evaluation of glucose and glutamine as precursors for the synthesis of preferentially released glutamate.", "content": "Slices of the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus of the hippocampal formation were incubated with either [14C]glucose, [14C]pyruvate or 14C glutamine and the efflux of endogenous and radioactive glutamate was monitored under various conditions. After prelabeling with either [14C]glutamine or [14C]glucose elevation of K+ concentration to 56 mM (Ca2+ free) increased efflux of endogenous and [14C]glutamate. Introduction of Ca2+ into the elevated K+ medium further increased the efflux of endogenous glutamate and radioactive glutamate derived from any of the precursors tested. In glutamine containing media, the increase in glutamate efflux as well as basal efflux was considerably higher than in the absence of glutamine and the specific activity of glutamate release was higher than that in tissue. Thus glutamine was superior to glucose or pyruvate as precursor and most specifically labeled the putative transmitter pool of glutamate. Similar experiments were carried out 4 and 14 days after a unilateral lesion in the entorhinal cortex which provides about 60% of the total synaptic input to the dentate granule cells. The Ca2+ dependent release of glutamate derived from either glucose or glutamine was markedly reduced on the operated side. This result suggests that the transmitter pool of glutamate is in perforant path terminals and can be synthesized from glucose or glutamine.", "contents": "Glutamate as a CNS transmitter. I. Evaluation of glucose and glutamine as precursors for the synthesis of preferentially released glutamate. Slices of the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus of the hippocampal formation were incubated with either [14C]glucose, [14C]pyruvate or 14C glutamine and the efflux of endogenous and radioactive glutamate was monitored under various conditions. After prelabeling with either [14C]glutamine or [14C]glucose elevation of K+ concentration to 56 mM (Ca2+ free) increased efflux of endogenous and [14C]glutamate. Introduction of Ca2+ into the elevated K+ medium further increased the efflux of endogenous glutamate and radioactive glutamate derived from any of the precursors tested. In glutamine containing media, the increase in glutamate efflux as well as basal efflux was considerably higher than in the absence of glutamine and the specific activity of glutamate release was higher than that in tissue. Thus glutamine was superior to glucose or pyruvate as precursor and most specifically labeled the putative transmitter pool of glutamate. Similar experiments were carried out 4 and 14 days after a unilateral lesion in the entorhinal cortex which provides about 60% of the total synaptic input to the dentate granule cells. The Ca2+ dependent release of glutamate derived from either glucose or glutamine was markedly reduced on the operated side. This result suggests that the transmitter pool of glutamate is in perforant path terminals and can be synthesized from glucose or glutamine.", "PMID": 435980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2953", "title": "Glutamate as a CNS transmitter. II. Regulation of synthesis in the releasable pool.", "content": "Slices of the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus of rat hippocampus were used to study the regulation of glutamate synthesis and release. Net glutamate synthesis increased dramatically during conditions which stimulated the release of glutamate. The rate of glutamine incorporation into glutamate released into the medium was increased almost immediately upon stimulation with a 56 mM KCl, 3 mM CaCl2 medium. Synthesis appeared to be regulated both by glutamine uptake and the activity og glutaminase. Glutamine uptake was stimulated in the presence of 56 mM KCl and 3 mM CaCl2. The increased glutamine uptake was not due to a decrease in efflux, was unrelated to tissue glutamate levels, and could be dissociated from the rate of glutamate biosynthesis. The presence of Ca2+ ions and depolarization seemed necessary. Glutaminase activity was regulated by end product inhibition: increased levels of tissue glutamate resulted in a decrease in glutamate synthesis. Glutamine in the presence of 56 mM KCl increased the rate of glucose incorporation into glutamate over that seen without glutamine.", "contents": "Glutamate as a CNS transmitter. II. Regulation of synthesis in the releasable pool. Slices of the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus of rat hippocampus were used to study the regulation of glutamate synthesis and release. Net glutamate synthesis increased dramatically during conditions which stimulated the release of glutamate. The rate of glutamine incorporation into glutamate released into the medium was increased almost immediately upon stimulation with a 56 mM KCl, 3 mM CaCl2 medium. Synthesis appeared to be regulated both by glutamine uptake and the activity og glutaminase. Glutamine uptake was stimulated in the presence of 56 mM KCl and 3 mM CaCl2. The increased glutamine uptake was not due to a decrease in efflux, was unrelated to tissue glutamate levels, and could be dissociated from the rate of glutamate biosynthesis. The presence of Ca2+ ions and depolarization seemed necessary. Glutaminase activity was regulated by end product inhibition: increased levels of tissue glutamate resulted in a decrease in glutamate synthesis. Glutamine in the presence of 56 mM KCl increased the rate of glucose incorporation into glutamate over that seen without glutamine.", "PMID": 435981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2954", "title": "Blockade by benzodiazepines of the selective high increase in dopamine turnover induced by stress in mesocortical dopaminergic neurons of the rat.", "content": "The effects of electrical foot shock on the activity of the ascending dopaminergic neurons were estimated in the rat by measuring the changes in DOPAC and DA levels in discrete brain areas. DOPAC and DA levels were estimated with a radioenzymatic method in microdiscs of tissues punched out from serial frontal sections of the brain. A marked rise in the ratio of DOPAC/DA levels resulting from an increase of DOPAC and a decrease of DA levels was found in the cerebral frontal cortex at the end of a 20 min stress. The effect was less pronounced in stress of shorter duration from 3 to 10 min and was only related to a reduction of DA levels. Using the DOPAC/DA ratio as an index of the activity of the neurons, the mesocortical dopaminergic neurons were found to be selectively activated under stress since this ratio was increased in the frontal and cingular cortices but not in limbic structures such as the septum, the amygdala and the nucleus accumbens or in the striatum. Finally, pretreatment of the rats with diazepam (5 mg/kg i.p.) or chlordiazepoxide (10 mg/kg i.p.) prevented the increase in the DOPAC/DA ratio in the frontal cerebral cortex of rats submitted to the 20 min stress.", "contents": "Blockade by benzodiazepines of the selective high increase in dopamine turnover induced by stress in mesocortical dopaminergic neurons of the rat. The effects of electrical foot shock on the activity of the ascending dopaminergic neurons were estimated in the rat by measuring the changes in DOPAC and DA levels in discrete brain areas. DOPAC and DA levels were estimated with a radioenzymatic method in microdiscs of tissues punched out from serial frontal sections of the brain. A marked rise in the ratio of DOPAC/DA levels resulting from an increase of DOPAC and a decrease of DA levels was found in the cerebral frontal cortex at the end of a 20 min stress. The effect was less pronounced in stress of shorter duration from 3 to 10 min and was only related to a reduction of DA levels. Using the DOPAC/DA ratio as an index of the activity of the neurons, the mesocortical dopaminergic neurons were found to be selectively activated under stress since this ratio was increased in the frontal and cingular cortices but not in limbic structures such as the septum, the amygdala and the nucleus accumbens or in the striatum. Finally, pretreatment of the rats with diazepam (5 mg/kg i.p.) or chlordiazepoxide (10 mg/kg i.p.) prevented the increase in the DOPAC/DA ratio in the frontal cerebral cortex of rats submitted to the 20 min stress.", "PMID": 435982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2955", "title": "On the characteristics of mitochondrial monoamine oxidase in pancreas and adipose tissues from genetically obese mice.", "content": "The substrate specificity of mitochondrial monoamine oxidase (MAO) in pancreatic and adipose tissues of obese mice and their lean counterparts was determined. The pancreatic MAO of obese mice had a greater specific activity than that of the lean mice. The white adipose tissue MAO was found to be more active than the brown adipose MAO in both groups of mice. While there was no appreciable difference in the MAO activities of brown adipose tissues between obese and lean mice, the enzyme from the white adipose tissue of obese mice had a higher specific activity than that of the lean mice. The higher MAO activity in white adipose tissue was observed when tyramine or serotonin was employed as substrate but not with benzylamine. Examination of mitochondrial MAO from epididymal adipocytes revealed marked differences in the properties of the enzyme between whole adipose tissue and isolated adipocytes. The inhibition characteristics of MAO from these tissues were studied with the specific inhibitors clorgyline and deprenyl.", "contents": "On the characteristics of mitochondrial monoamine oxidase in pancreas and adipose tissues from genetically obese mice. The substrate specificity of mitochondrial monoamine oxidase (MAO) in pancreatic and adipose tissues of obese mice and their lean counterparts was determined. The pancreatic MAO of obese mice had a greater specific activity than that of the lean mice. The white adipose tissue MAO was found to be more active than the brown adipose MAO in both groups of mice. While there was no appreciable difference in the MAO activities of brown adipose tissues between obese and lean mice, the enzyme from the white adipose tissue of obese mice had a higher specific activity than that of the lean mice. The higher MAO activity in white adipose tissue was observed when tyramine or serotonin was employed as substrate but not with benzylamine. Examination of mitochondrial MAO from epididymal adipocytes revealed marked differences in the properties of the enzyme between whole adipose tissue and isolated adipocytes. The inhibition characteristics of MAO from these tissues were studied with the specific inhibitors clorgyline and deprenyl.", "PMID": 436004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2956", "title": "Preparation and mass spectral behaviour of some 5 beta-cholenoic acids.", "content": "Monounsaturated 5 beta-cholanoic acids with double bonds in rings A, B, and C were prepared by POCl3 and ZnCl2 dehydration from natural bile acids with selectively blocked hydroxyl functions. The yields ranged from 15 to 100%. The products were purified by thin-layer and AgNO3 thin-layer chromatography and the structures were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The methyl ester acetates of the unsaturated 5 beta-cholanoic acids possessed chromatographic properties closely similar to those of the corresponding saturated bile acids. Several characteristic fragments were seen in the mass spectra which, in conjunction with the chromatographic properties, permitted an unambiguous distinction between different monounsaturated acids, and between saturated and unsaturated bile acids of the same number and configuration of functional groups. The 20 5 beta-cholenoic acids examined represent all of the simple chemical and enzymatic dehydration products of natural bile acids and can be completely identified by their combined chromatographic and mass spectral properties.", "contents": "Preparation and mass spectral behaviour of some 5 beta-cholenoic acids. Monounsaturated 5 beta-cholanoic acids with double bonds in rings A, B, and C were prepared by POCl3 and ZnCl2 dehydration from natural bile acids with selectively blocked hydroxyl functions. The yields ranged from 15 to 100%. The products were purified by thin-layer and AgNO3 thin-layer chromatography and the structures were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The methyl ester acetates of the unsaturated 5 beta-cholanoic acids possessed chromatographic properties closely similar to those of the corresponding saturated bile acids. Several characteristic fragments were seen in the mass spectra which, in conjunction with the chromatographic properties, permitted an unambiguous distinction between different monounsaturated acids, and between saturated and unsaturated bile acids of the same number and configuration of functional groups. The 20 5 beta-cholenoic acids examined represent all of the simple chemical and enzymatic dehydration products of natural bile acids and can be completely identified by their combined chromatographic and mass spectral properties.", "PMID": 436005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2957", "title": "Influence of magnesium and polyamines on the reactivity of individual ribosomal subunit proteins to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination.", "content": "30S and 50S subunits, in the presence of either 20 mM Mg2+ or 6 mM Mg2+ and 5mM spermidine plus 25 mM putrescine, were observed to completely associate to form 70S monosomes as monitored by sucrose gradient sedimentation. Subunits maintained under the above ionic conditions were compared with 30S and 50S particles at low (6 mM) magnesium concentration with respect to the reactivity of individual ribosomal proteins to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination. Altered reactivity to enzymatic iodination of ribosomal proteins S4, S9, S10, S14, S17, S19, and S20 in the small subunit of ribosomal proteins, L2, L9, L11, L27, and L30 in the large subunit following incubation with high magnesium or magnesium and polyamines suggests that a conformation change in both subunits accompanies the formation of 70S monosomes. The results further demonstrate that the effect of Mg2+ on subunit conformation is mimicked when polyamines are substituted for magnesium necessary for subunit association.", "contents": "Influence of magnesium and polyamines on the reactivity of individual ribosomal subunit proteins to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination. 30S and 50S subunits, in the presence of either 20 mM Mg2+ or 6 mM Mg2+ and 5mM spermidine plus 25 mM putrescine, were observed to completely associate to form 70S monosomes as monitored by sucrose gradient sedimentation. Subunits maintained under the above ionic conditions were compared with 30S and 50S particles at low (6 mM) magnesium concentration with respect to the reactivity of individual ribosomal proteins to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination. Altered reactivity to enzymatic iodination of ribosomal proteins S4, S9, S10, S14, S17, S19, and S20 in the small subunit of ribosomal proteins, L2, L9, L11, L27, and L30 in the large subunit following incubation with high magnesium or magnesium and polyamines suggests that a conformation change in both subunits accompanies the formation of 70S monosomes. The results further demonstrate that the effect of Mg2+ on subunit conformation is mimicked when polyamines are substituted for magnesium necessary for subunit association.", "PMID": 436007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2958", "title": "Synthesis and turnover of sulfogalactoglycerolipid, a membrane lipid, during spermatogenesis.", "content": "The synthesis and turnover of sulfogalactoglycerolipid (SGG) were studied by in vivo labelling of SGG with 35S. The loss of [35S]SGG from the testes and its appearance in the vas deferens plus epididymis were followed with time. DNA was labelled by administration of [3H]thymidine and the behavior of the two isotopes was compared. The results demonstrate that SGG snythesis occurs only in very early spermatocytes and that, once made, the compound does not turn over. The SGG is lost from the testes when germinal cells die or mature into spermatozoa.", "contents": "Synthesis and turnover of sulfogalactoglycerolipid, a membrane lipid, during spermatogenesis. The synthesis and turnover of sulfogalactoglycerolipid (SGG) were studied by in vivo labelling of SGG with 35S. The loss of [35S]SGG from the testes and its appearance in the vas deferens plus epididymis were followed with time. DNA was labelled by administration of [3H]thymidine and the behavior of the two isotopes was compared. The results demonstrate that SGG snythesis occurs only in very early spermatocytes and that, once made, the compound does not turn over. The SGG is lost from the testes when germinal cells die or mature into spermatozoa.", "PMID": 436008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2959", "title": "Circular dichroism studies of native and chemically modified Ca2+-dependent protein modulator.", "content": "The structural features of the native Ca2+-dependent protein modulator and two chemically modified derivatives, namely, nitrotyrosyl modulator and alkylated modulator, were examined by circular dichroism. The binding of Ca2+ to the native molecule was accompanied by an increase in helical content from 40 to 49%, with little effect on the local environments of aromatic residues in the modulator. The Mg2+ and Mn2+ do not elicit the conformational change induced by the binding of Ca2+, which also stabilizes the modulator against urea denaturation. The overall secondary structure of nitrotyrosyl modulator is indistinguishable from that of the native protein and undergoes a similar conformational change upon binding Ca2+. These observations are in agreement with the fact that nitration has no effect on modulator functions. Furthermore, nitrotyrosyl modulator interacts with troponin I only in the presence of Ca2+, as detected by circular dichroism (cd). On the other hand, alkylation of five methionine residues on the modulator with benzyl bromide affects protein conformation, as evidenced by a reduced helical content of only 35%. Alkylated modulator retains the ability of the native protein to bind Ca2+ although the affinity of this derivative for Ca2+ is reduced some three orders of magnitude relative to the native protein, with Kd = 3.2 X 10(-4) M. The results with the alkylated modulator, in conjunction with previous cd studies on N-chlorosuccinimide oxidized modulator are utilized to advance a model for the Ca2+ activation of modulator protein, based on three conformational states of the molecule.", "contents": "Circular dichroism studies of native and chemically modified Ca2+-dependent protein modulator. The structural features of the native Ca2+-dependent protein modulator and two chemically modified derivatives, namely, nitrotyrosyl modulator and alkylated modulator, were examined by circular dichroism. The binding of Ca2+ to the native molecule was accompanied by an increase in helical content from 40 to 49%, with little effect on the local environments of aromatic residues in the modulator. The Mg2+ and Mn2+ do not elicit the conformational change induced by the binding of Ca2+, which also stabilizes the modulator against urea denaturation. The overall secondary structure of nitrotyrosyl modulator is indistinguishable from that of the native protein and undergoes a similar conformational change upon binding Ca2+. These observations are in agreement with the fact that nitration has no effect on modulator functions. Furthermore, nitrotyrosyl modulator interacts with troponin I only in the presence of Ca2+, as detected by circular dichroism (cd). On the other hand, alkylation of five methionine residues on the modulator with benzyl bromide affects protein conformation, as evidenced by a reduced helical content of only 35%. Alkylated modulator retains the ability of the native protein to bind Ca2+ although the affinity of this derivative for Ca2+ is reduced some three orders of magnitude relative to the native protein, with Kd = 3.2 X 10(-4) M. The results with the alkylated modulator, in conjunction with previous cd studies on N-chlorosuccinimide oxidized modulator are utilized to advance a model for the Ca2+ activation of modulator protein, based on three conformational states of the molecule.", "PMID": 436009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2960", "title": "Naphthalenone production in Aspergillus parvulus.", "content": "The naphthalenones asparvenone and its 6-O-methyl ether are produced by Aspergillus parvulus during vegetative growth in batch-mode, shaken cultures in a glucose-glycine-salts medium. The secondary metabolites first appear around the time when hyphae of developing spores begin to make contact with each other, i.e. at a very early stage of culture development. Resuspension in new medium of mycelium that is producing the naphthalenones fails to inhibit production. When A. parvulus is grown in parallel on a glucose-glycine-salts medium and on a glucose-malt-peptone medium, the naphthalenones appear first in the richer medium despite the fact that biomass proliferation is relatively unrestricted in that medium. Radiolabelled [1-14C]-acetate is taken up quickly by the fungus (k = 0.09 min-1) and is incorporated effectively into the naphthalenones.", "contents": "Naphthalenone production in Aspergillus parvulus. The naphthalenones asparvenone and its 6-O-methyl ether are produced by Aspergillus parvulus during vegetative growth in batch-mode, shaken cultures in a glucose-glycine-salts medium. The secondary metabolites first appear around the time when hyphae of developing spores begin to make contact with each other, i.e. at a very early stage of culture development. Resuspension in new medium of mycelium that is producing the naphthalenones fails to inhibit production. When A. parvulus is grown in parallel on a glucose-glycine-salts medium and on a glucose-malt-peptone medium, the naphthalenones appear first in the richer medium despite the fact that biomass proliferation is relatively unrestricted in that medium. Radiolabelled [1-14C]-acetate is taken up quickly by the fungus (k = 0.09 min-1) and is incorporated effectively into the naphthalenones.", "PMID": 436011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2961", "title": "Crude oil utilization by fungi.", "content": "Sixty fungal isolates, 34 obtained by a static enrichment technique from soils of northern Canadian oil-producing areas and 26 from culture collections, were screened for their ability to grow on n-tetradecane, toluene, naphthalene, and seven crude oils of varying composition. Forty cultures, including 28 soil isolates, were capable of growth on one or more crude oils. The genera most frequently isolated from soils were those producing abundant small condida, e.g. Penicillium and Verticillium spp. Oil-degrading strains of Beauveria bassiana, Mortieriella sp., Phoma sp., Scolecobasidium obovatum, and Tolypocladium inflatum were also isolated. Qualitative and quantitative differences were noted among the capacities of different crude oils to sustain the growth of individual fungal isolates. Data are presented which show that ability to grow on a pure n-alkane is not a good indicator of ability to grow on crude oil. Degradation of Rainbow Lake crude oil by individual isolates was demonstrated by gravimetric and gas-chromatographic techniques. The problems involved in determining the response and the potential of fungi to degrade oil spilled in the environment are discussed.", "contents": "Crude oil utilization by fungi. Sixty fungal isolates, 34 obtained by a static enrichment technique from soils of northern Canadian oil-producing areas and 26 from culture collections, were screened for their ability to grow on n-tetradecane, toluene, naphthalene, and seven crude oils of varying composition. Forty cultures, including 28 soil isolates, were capable of growth on one or more crude oils. The genera most frequently isolated from soils were those producing abundant small condida, e.g. Penicillium and Verticillium spp. Oil-degrading strains of Beauveria bassiana, Mortieriella sp., Phoma sp., Scolecobasidium obovatum, and Tolypocladium inflatum were also isolated. Qualitative and quantitative differences were noted among the capacities of different crude oils to sustain the growth of individual fungal isolates. Data are presented which show that ability to grow on a pure n-alkane is not a good indicator of ability to grow on crude oil. Degradation of Rainbow Lake crude oil by individual isolates was demonstrated by gravimetric and gas-chromatographic techniques. The problems involved in determining the response and the potential of fungi to degrade oil spilled in the environment are discussed.", "PMID": 436012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2962", "title": "Effect of irradiance upon the population of Pseudomonas coronafaciens in leaves and symptom expression of halo blight of rye.", "content": "The toxin-induced chlorosis caused by Pseudomonas coronafaciens is influenced by irradiance. Three levels of irradiance caused differences in symptom expression but did not affect the rate of increase or final population of viable cells of P. coronafaciens in rye leaves. Distinct and faint halo blight symptoms appeared in 3--4 days in full light (1425 microW cm-2), and 58% shade (598 microW cm-2) respectively. No symptoms or only faint symptoms appeared after 7 days at 86% shade (202 microW cm-2). When plants kept in 58 and 86% shade were moved to full light 5 days after inoculation, lesion size and chlorosis increased rapidly during the next 2 days. On the 7th day after inoculation, the size of lesions from the 58 and 86% shade treatments exceeded those in full light by 2.5 and 5 times, respectively. A chlorosis index based on lesion size and chlorophyll loss within lesions also reflected this trend although chlorophyll loss was greater in lesions in full light for 7 days. Conditions of low irradiance such as that caused by overcast weather and (or) a dense leaf canopy followed by bright sunshine can cause greater losses from halo blight than a continuous period of high irradiance. Sympton expression may be masked by low irradiance but increase of inoculum is not impaired. Although increased light enhances chlorosis, toxin diffusion or production may be reduced.", "contents": "Effect of irradiance upon the population of Pseudomonas coronafaciens in leaves and symptom expression of halo blight of rye. The toxin-induced chlorosis caused by Pseudomonas coronafaciens is influenced by irradiance. Three levels of irradiance caused differences in symptom expression but did not affect the rate of increase or final population of viable cells of P. coronafaciens in rye leaves. Distinct and faint halo blight symptoms appeared in 3--4 days in full light (1425 microW cm-2), and 58% shade (598 microW cm-2) respectively. No symptoms or only faint symptoms appeared after 7 days at 86% shade (202 microW cm-2). When plants kept in 58 and 86% shade were moved to full light 5 days after inoculation, lesion size and chlorosis increased rapidly during the next 2 days. On the 7th day after inoculation, the size of lesions from the 58 and 86% shade treatments exceeded those in full light by 2.5 and 5 times, respectively. A chlorosis index based on lesion size and chlorophyll loss within lesions also reflected this trend although chlorophyll loss was greater in lesions in full light for 7 days. Conditions of low irradiance such as that caused by overcast weather and (or) a dense leaf canopy followed by bright sunshine can cause greater losses from halo blight than a continuous period of high irradiance. Sympton expression may be masked by low irradiance but increase of inoculum is not impaired. Although increased light enhances chlorosis, toxin diffusion or production may be reduced.", "PMID": 436013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2963", "title": "The production of chaetoglobosins, sterigmatocystin, O-methylsterigmatocystin, and chaetocin by Chaetomium spp. and related fungi.", "content": "Production of mycotoxins by Chaetomium spp. and related fungi on rice culture was examined by a combination of cytotoxicity tests using HeLa cells and thin-layer chromatography. Three species, C. mollipilium, C. rectum, and C. subaffine, as well as C. cochliodes and C. globosum, were proved to produce chaetoglobosins. From cultures of four strains of Chaetomium sp., assigned to C. thielavioideum, and one strain of Farrowia sp., chaetocin, sterigmatocystin, and O-methylsterigmatocystin were isolated. Morphological characteristics of the producers of sterigmatocystins are described.", "contents": "The production of chaetoglobosins, sterigmatocystin, O-methylsterigmatocystin, and chaetocin by Chaetomium spp. and related fungi. Production of mycotoxins by Chaetomium spp. and related fungi on rice culture was examined by a combination of cytotoxicity tests using HeLa cells and thin-layer chromatography. Three species, C. mollipilium, C. rectum, and C. subaffine, as well as C. cochliodes and C. globosum, were proved to produce chaetoglobosins. From cultures of four strains of Chaetomium sp., assigned to C. thielavioideum, and one strain of Farrowia sp., chaetocin, sterigmatocystin, and O-methylsterigmatocystin were isolated. Morphological characteristics of the producers of sterigmatocystins are described.", "PMID": 436014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2964", "title": "Ultrastructure of midgut events in the pathogenesis of Bacillus sphaericus strain SSII-1 infections of Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus larvae.", "content": "The fate of Bacillus sphaericus strain SSII-1 cells ingested by Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus (= C. pipiens fatigans, C. fatigans, C. quinquefasciatus of authors; Diptera: Culicidae) larvae and the cytological events preceding death of the host were observed using electron microscopy. Bacillus sphaericus cells were digested rapidly in the anterior and central midgut. The outer cell wall layer and cytoplasmic ground substance disappeared soon after ingestion. Cytolysosomes became prominent in midgut cells as these cells gradually separated from one another. All bacteria, including B. sphaericus, were confined within the peritrophic membrane until after death of the host. Digestion by the larval host is confirmed as a possible mechanism for release of B. sphaericus toxin from the bacterial cells.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of midgut events in the pathogenesis of Bacillus sphaericus strain SSII-1 infections of Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus larvae. The fate of Bacillus sphaericus strain SSII-1 cells ingested by Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus (= C. pipiens fatigans, C. fatigans, C. quinquefasciatus of authors; Diptera: Culicidae) larvae and the cytological events preceding death of the host were observed using electron microscopy. Bacillus sphaericus cells were digested rapidly in the anterior and central midgut. The outer cell wall layer and cytoplasmic ground substance disappeared soon after ingestion. Cytolysosomes became prominent in midgut cells as these cells gradually separated from one another. All bacteria, including B. sphaericus, were confined within the peritrophic membrane until after death of the host. Digestion by the larval host is confirmed as a possible mechanism for release of B. sphaericus toxin from the bacterial cells.", "PMID": 436015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2965", "title": "Penetration into caterpillar cells of virus-like particles injected during oviposition by parasitoid ichneumonid wasps.", "content": "Particles originating from the ovarial calyx epithelium of two different species of ichneumonid wasp are injected into host caterpillars during oviposition. At 1 3/4 h post oviposition, many calyx fluid particles are either associated with or have oenetrated through the basement membranes surrounding various tissues. Shortly thereafter, apparently intact particle nucleocapsids are observed in both the cytoplasm and nucleus of host cells. An unusual tubular protrusion of the viral envelope appears to be involved in either or both of penetration of basement membranes and entry of nucleocapsids into host cells.", "contents": "Penetration into caterpillar cells of virus-like particles injected during oviposition by parasitoid ichneumonid wasps. Particles originating from the ovarial calyx epithelium of two different species of ichneumonid wasp are injected into host caterpillars during oviposition. At 1 3/4 h post oviposition, many calyx fluid particles are either associated with or have oenetrated through the basement membranes surrounding various tissues. Shortly thereafter, apparently intact particle nucleocapsids are observed in both the cytoplasm and nucleus of host cells. An unusual tubular protrusion of the viral envelope appears to be involved in either or both of penetration of basement membranes and entry of nucleocapsids into host cells.", "PMID": 436016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2966", "title": "Further studies of a new pathogenic mycobacterium (M. haemophilum sp. nov.).", "content": "Mycobacterium haemophilum is an acid-fast rod-shaped organism, originally isolated from deep subcutaneous granulomata of a patient with Hodgkin's disease. Like the other two mycobacterial skin-pathogens, M. ulcerans and M. marinum, M. haemophilum has a maximum temperature for growth below 37 degrees C. Mycobacterium haemophilum is distinguished from all other species examined by its requirement of haemin for growth and its complete lack of catalase activity. Extraneous catalase cannot replace haemin as a growth factor for this organism. Mycobacterium haemophilum can also be differentiated from other species by the patterns of electrophoresis of protein extracts and by gas-liquid chromatography of saponificated and methylated lipid extracts. A monospecific-agglutinating antiserum against M. haemophilum was obtained by adsorption of an immunoserum with M. intracellulare. A number of slow-growing mycobacterial species develop on monolayers of McCoy fibroblasts, and growth on these tissue cultures can be observed much earlier than on artificial media. Mycobacterium haemophilum is characterized by exclusively intracellular development.", "contents": "Further studies of a new pathogenic mycobacterium (M. haemophilum sp. nov.). Mycobacterium haemophilum is an acid-fast rod-shaped organism, originally isolated from deep subcutaneous granulomata of a patient with Hodgkin's disease. Like the other two mycobacterial skin-pathogens, M. ulcerans and M. marinum, M. haemophilum has a maximum temperature for growth below 37 degrees C. Mycobacterium haemophilum is distinguished from all other species examined by its requirement of haemin for growth and its complete lack of catalase activity. Extraneous catalase cannot replace haemin as a growth factor for this organism. Mycobacterium haemophilum can also be differentiated from other species by the patterns of electrophoresis of protein extracts and by gas-liquid chromatography of saponificated and methylated lipid extracts. A monospecific-agglutinating antiserum against M. haemophilum was obtained by adsorption of an immunoserum with M. intracellulare. A number of slow-growing mycobacterial species develop on monolayers of McCoy fibroblasts, and growth on these tissue cultures can be observed much earlier than on artificial media. Mycobacterium haemophilum is characterized by exclusively intracellular development.", "PMID": 436017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2967", "title": "Populations of the spinach wilt pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae, in the root tissues, rhizosphere, and soil in the field.", "content": "Populations of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae in root tissues and rhizosphere soil of diseased spinach plants were higher than in the root tissues and rhizosphere soil of healthy plants. Populations in soil rhizosphere were higher than in nonrhizosphere soil. The fungus populations were very low in the root tissues of the nonsusceptible strawberry, broccoli, chinese cabbage, and mustard grown in the infested field. The populations were low at the beginning of the season, increased, and remained high during the summer, then dropped in the fall. The fungus populations ranged from 1600 to 2600 propagules/g in the top 10 cm of soil, declined sharply between 11 and 20 cm, and were nondetectable between 41 and 60 cm.", "contents": "Populations of the spinach wilt pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae, in the root tissues, rhizosphere, and soil in the field. Populations of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae in root tissues and rhizosphere soil of diseased spinach plants were higher than in the root tissues and rhizosphere soil of healthy plants. Populations in soil rhizosphere were higher than in nonrhizosphere soil. The fungus populations were very low in the root tissues of the nonsusceptible strawberry, broccoli, chinese cabbage, and mustard grown in the infested field. The populations were low at the beginning of the season, increased, and remained high during the summer, then dropped in the fall. The fungus populations ranged from 1600 to 2600 propagules/g in the top 10 cm of soil, declined sharply between 11 and 20 cm, and were nondetectable between 41 and 60 cm.", "PMID": 436018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2968", "title": "Inhibitory effect of cocoa powder on the growth of a variety of bacteria in different media.", "content": "The inhibitory effect of cocoa powder on 102 organisms belonging to 13 genera was determined. All organisms tested were inhibited by 5% cocoa. Shigella, Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, and Bacillus were the most sensitive. The degree of inhibition depended on the organism, temperature of incubation, and the medium in which the cocoa powder was suspended. Of six media tested, lactose broth and nutrient broth were the most inhibitory, while non-fat dry milk was the least inhibitory. Supplementing NB with tryptone or casein reduced the toxicity of cocoa.", "contents": "Inhibitory effect of cocoa powder on the growth of a variety of bacteria in different media. The inhibitory effect of cocoa powder on 102 organisms belonging to 13 genera was determined. All organisms tested were inhibited by 5% cocoa. Shigella, Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, and Bacillus were the most sensitive. The degree of inhibition depended on the organism, temperature of incubation, and the medium in which the cocoa powder was suspended. Of six media tested, lactose broth and nutrient broth were the most inhibitory, while non-fat dry milk was the least inhibitory. Supplementing NB with tryptone or casein reduced the toxicity of cocoa.", "PMID": 436019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2969", "title": "Formation of abdominal cyst secondary to ventriculoperitoneal shunting.", "content": "The formation of an abdominal cyst is an uncommon complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Three cases are presented in this paper and 21 previously reported cases and reviewed. The authors believe that decreased absorptive power of the peritoneum as a result of adhesions from previous multiple abdominal procedures or infection (particularly by Staphylococcus epidermidis), or both, is of etiologic significance. The patients presented with abdominal swelling and tenderness due to a malfunctioning shunt. Early diagnosis is possible by roentgenography of the abdomen and radioisotope scanning of the shunt. Paracentesis with conversion of the shunt to a ventriculoatrial or ventriculocisternal type is the treatment of choice.", "contents": "Formation of abdominal cyst secondary to ventriculoperitoneal shunting. The formation of an abdominal cyst is an uncommon complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Three cases are presented in this paper and 21 previously reported cases and reviewed. The authors believe that decreased absorptive power of the peritoneum as a result of adhesions from previous multiple abdominal procedures or infection (particularly by Staphylococcus epidermidis), or both, is of etiologic significance. The patients presented with abdominal swelling and tenderness due to a malfunctioning shunt. Early diagnosis is possible by roentgenography of the abdomen and radioisotope scanning of the shunt. Paracentesis with conversion of the shunt to a ventriculoatrial or ventriculocisternal type is the treatment of choice.", "PMID": 436026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2970", "title": "Adenocarcinoma of the trachea: palliative response to cobalt-60 irradiation.", "content": "The prognosis of mucus-secreting adenocarcinoma of the trachea is grim. Its large size and infiltrative nature prohibit surgical resection and the response to radiation therapy has been poor. The authors report a case in which notable initial palliation was achieved through cobalt-60 therapy resulting in regression of the patient's tumour and a longer survival than that previously reported in patients with this disease.", "contents": "Adenocarcinoma of the trachea: palliative response to cobalt-60 irradiation. The prognosis of mucus-secreting adenocarcinoma of the trachea is grim. Its large size and infiltrative nature prohibit surgical resection and the response to radiation therapy has been poor. The authors report a case in which notable initial palliation was achieved through cobalt-60 therapy resulting in regression of the patient's tumour and a longer survival than that previously reported in patients with this disease.", "PMID": 436027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2971", "title": "Squamous cell carcinoma arising in chronic osteomyelitis.", "content": "Analysis of three cases and a review of the recent literature on squamous cell carcinoma arising in osteomyelitis confirm that this is an uncommon condition which may run a less benign course than was earlier believed. The disease affects chiefly middle-aged and older men, usually involves the lower extremity and most often occurs in the tibia. Development of a malignant tumour is heralded by increased pain and foul-smelling drainage in the presence of a fungating ulcer. Increased bone destruction is seen on the roentgenograms. A consistent finding is the long duration of infection but the authors stress that sinus drainage of long duration is not essential: the carcinoma can arise in scar overlying quiescent osteomyelitis as is occasionally seen in burn scars. Amputation is the treatment of choice.", "contents": "Squamous cell carcinoma arising in chronic osteomyelitis. Analysis of three cases and a review of the recent literature on squamous cell carcinoma arising in osteomyelitis confirm that this is an uncommon condition which may run a less benign course than was earlier believed. The disease affects chiefly middle-aged and older men, usually involves the lower extremity and most often occurs in the tibia. Development of a malignant tumour is heralded by increased pain and foul-smelling drainage in the presence of a fungating ulcer. Increased bone destruction is seen on the roentgenograms. A consistent finding is the long duration of infection but the authors stress that sinus drainage of long duration is not essential: the carcinoma can arise in scar overlying quiescent osteomyelitis as is occasionally seen in burn scars. Amputation is the treatment of choice.", "PMID": 436028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2972", "title": "Nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity following irrigation of wounds with neomycin.", "content": "Renal failure and ototoxicity developed in two patients following wound irrigation with neomycin. In both patients the renal failure was reversible, but the deafness was progressive despite withdrawal of the neomycin. In one patient the serum neomycin concentration was still markedly elevated (42 microgram/ml) 2 days after use of the drug was discontinued. The authors suggest that irrigation of large open wounds with neomycin is dangerous since toxic blood concentrations may ensue. The benefits conferred by neomycin irrigation should be weighed against the possible danger of permanently impaired hearing.", "contents": "Nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity following irrigation of wounds with neomycin. Renal failure and ototoxicity developed in two patients following wound irrigation with neomycin. In both patients the renal failure was reversible, but the deafness was progressive despite withdrawal of the neomycin. In one patient the serum neomycin concentration was still markedly elevated (42 microgram/ml) 2 days after use of the drug was discontinued. The authors suggest that irrigation of large open wounds with neomycin is dangerous since toxic blood concentrations may ensue. The benefits conferred by neomycin irrigation should be weighed against the possible danger of permanently impaired hearing.", "PMID": 436029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2973", "title": "Localization of pheochromocytoma by selective venous catheterization and assay of plasma catecholamines.", "content": "The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma rests primarily on determination of the 24-hour urinary excretion of catecholamines and their metabolites. In most cases nephrotomography and selective arteriography or venography, or both, are sufficient to localize the tumour. Selective venous catheterization and the assay of plasma catecholamines should be considered for pheochromocytoma localization in: (a) patients in whom standard techniques fail to localize the tumour; (b) patients who exhibit idiosyncratic reactions to the angiographic contrast materials; (c) young patients or patients with familial pheochromocytoma, including those with multiple neurofibromatosis or multiple endocrine adenomatosis, type 2; (d) patients with recurrent, malignant, or suspected multicentric or extra-adrenal tumours; and (e) patients excreting only norepinephrine in the urine. The validity of the results is particularly dependent on the skill with which venous catheterization is carried out.", "contents": "Localization of pheochromocytoma by selective venous catheterization and assay of plasma catecholamines. The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma rests primarily on determination of the 24-hour urinary excretion of catecholamines and their metabolites. In most cases nephrotomography and selective arteriography or venography, or both, are sufficient to localize the tumour. Selective venous catheterization and the assay of plasma catecholamines should be considered for pheochromocytoma localization in: (a) patients in whom standard techniques fail to localize the tumour; (b) patients who exhibit idiosyncratic reactions to the angiographic contrast materials; (c) young patients or patients with familial pheochromocytoma, including those with multiple neurofibromatosis or multiple endocrine adenomatosis, type 2; (d) patients with recurrent, malignant, or suspected multicentric or extra-adrenal tumours; and (e) patients excreting only norepinephrine in the urine. The validity of the results is particularly dependent on the skill with which venous catheterization is carried out.", "PMID": 436033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2974", "title": "[Shunt glomerulonephritis: clinical and histopathological manifestations].", "content": "In patients with cerebrospinal fluid internal shunts, immune complex glomerulonephritis sometimes develops. Of two new cases the first was classic, while the second was in an adult who had had a ventriculoatril shunt for 8 years; furthermore, the patient had acute renal failure and is the first to have been reported to have Peptococcus septicemia. Shunt glomerulonephritis is characterized by the following: (a) its occurrence following, most often, Staphylococcus albus infection in a patient who usually has a ventriculoatrial shunt; (b) transitory improvement of the symptoms by antibiotherapy only; and (c) full recovery if the prosthesis is removed. Laboratory studies show a low serum concentration of the C3 component of complement, the presence of cryoglobulins and a positive rheumatoid factor test. These abnormalities are reversible with removal of the prosthesis. Optical microscopy of a renal biopsy specimen in the two cases showed cellular proliferation of the glomerular tuft, electron microscopy demonstrated subepithelial deposits and immunofluorescent studies revealed intramembranous and intramesangial immune complexes. These features are similar to those observed in experimental nephritis induced in animals by foreign protein.", "contents": "[Shunt glomerulonephritis: clinical and histopathological manifestations]. In patients with cerebrospinal fluid internal shunts, immune complex glomerulonephritis sometimes develops. Of two new cases the first was classic, while the second was in an adult who had had a ventriculoatril shunt for 8 years; furthermore, the patient had acute renal failure and is the first to have been reported to have Peptococcus septicemia. Shunt glomerulonephritis is characterized by the following: (a) its occurrence following, most often, Staphylococcus albus infection in a patient who usually has a ventriculoatrial shunt; (b) transitory improvement of the symptoms by antibiotherapy only; and (c) full recovery if the prosthesis is removed. Laboratory studies show a low serum concentration of the C3 component of complement, the presence of cryoglobulins and a positive rheumatoid factor test. These abnormalities are reversible with removal of the prosthesis. Optical microscopy of a renal biopsy specimen in the two cases showed cellular proliferation of the glomerular tuft, electron microscopy demonstrated subepithelial deposits and immunofluorescent studies revealed intramembranous and intramesangial immune complexes. These features are similar to those observed in experimental nephritis induced in animals by foreign protein.", "PMID": 436034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2975", "title": "Human somatotropin and lipotropin: relation between structure and activity.", "content": "Hormones of the anterior pituitary gland have been divided into three groups according to their chemical and biologic properties. Recent advances in knowledge of the relation between structure and activity of human somatotropin and beta-lipotropin are discussed.", "contents": "Human somatotropin and lipotropin: relation between structure and activity. Hormones of the anterior pituitary gland have been divided into three groups according to their chemical and biologic properties. Recent advances in knowledge of the relation between structure and activity of human somatotropin and beta-lipotropin are discussed.", "PMID": 436036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2976", "title": "Idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. 1. Differences in urine crystalloids, urine saturation with brushite and urine inhibitors of calcification between persons with and persons without recurrent kidney stone formation.", "content": "The propensity of urine to promote calcium stone formation was compared in 64 patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis and 30 healthy individuals without such a history. The rates of excretion of urine crystalloids, the urine saturation with brushite (CaHPO4-2H2O), the ability of the urine to calcify collagen in vitro, and the concentration of urine inhibitors of collagen calcification were measured. The patients had a reduced urine citrate excretion rate in addition to an increased urine calcium excretion rate, while the rates for urine magnesium, phosphate, uric acid and oxalate were not significantly different in the two groups of subjects. The urine concentration of magnesium, phosphate and uric acid was decreased in the patients because of the higher urine volume. The urine creatinine excretion rate correlated with the rates of excretion of urine calcium, magnesium, phosphate, uric acid and oxalate in both groups, which suggested that increased lean body mass, possibly associated with greater food intake, may be an important determinant of crystalloid excretion. The urine of the patients was significantly more saturated with brushite than the urine of the control subjects and resulted in greater collagen calcification when incubated in vitro. The urine concentration of inhibitors of collagen calcification, however, was not significantly different in the two groups. Thus, the urine of patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis is more highly saturated with brushite, largely as a result of an increased urine calcium excretion rate, and contains a lower concentration of magnesium and citrate, substances that tend to prevent the precipitation and growth of crystals in urine.", "contents": "Idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. 1. Differences in urine crystalloids, urine saturation with brushite and urine inhibitors of calcification between persons with and persons without recurrent kidney stone formation. The propensity of urine to promote calcium stone formation was compared in 64 patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis and 30 healthy individuals without such a history. The rates of excretion of urine crystalloids, the urine saturation with brushite (CaHPO4-2H2O), the ability of the urine to calcify collagen in vitro, and the concentration of urine inhibitors of collagen calcification were measured. The patients had a reduced urine citrate excretion rate in addition to an increased urine calcium excretion rate, while the rates for urine magnesium, phosphate, uric acid and oxalate were not significantly different in the two groups of subjects. The urine concentration of magnesium, phosphate and uric acid was decreased in the patients because of the higher urine volume. The urine creatinine excretion rate correlated with the rates of excretion of urine calcium, magnesium, phosphate, uric acid and oxalate in both groups, which suggested that increased lean body mass, possibly associated with greater food intake, may be an important determinant of crystalloid excretion. The urine of the patients was significantly more saturated with brushite than the urine of the control subjects and resulted in greater collagen calcification when incubated in vitro. The urine concentration of inhibitors of collagen calcification, however, was not significantly different in the two groups. Thus, the urine of patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis is more highly saturated with brushite, largely as a result of an increased urine calcium excretion rate, and contains a lower concentration of magnesium and citrate, substances that tend to prevent the precipitation and growth of crystals in urine.", "PMID": 436047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2977", "title": "Idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. 2. Differences between hypercalciuric and normocalciuric persons with recurrent kidney stone formation and persons without such a history.", "content": "Normocalciuric and hypercalciuric patients with idiopathic recurrent calcium nephrolithiasis were compared with healthy individuals without such a history to examine the factors that predispose normocalciuric patients to stone formation. The urine calcium excretion rate was higher in the normocalciuric patients than in the control subjects (227 v. 183 mg/24 h; P less than 0.01), but the urine calcium concentration was not significantly different. The urine magnesium and citrate excretion rates and concentrations were lower in the normocalciuric patients than in the control subjects (P less than 0.001), while the urine uric acid and oxalate excretion rates and concentrations and the urine saturation with brushite (CaHPO4-2H2O) were not significantly different. These results suggest the importance of slight increases in the urine calcium excretion rate together with decreased urine magnesium and citrate excretion rates in normocalciuric persons with recurrent calcium stone formation. The urine of the hypercalciuric patients was more highly saturated with brushite than the urine of the normocalciuric patients and the control subjects, and the excretion rates of uric acid and oxalate were increased in the hypercalciuric patients. The hypercalciuric patients had a higher urine creatinine excretion rate than the normocalciuric patients and a higher daily urine volume than the control subjects, which suggests that differences in lean body mass or fluid and food intake, or both, may be important determinants of these differences in crystalloid excretion. As in the normocalciuric patients, the urine citrate excretion rate and concentration were decreased in the hypercalciuric patients compared with the control subjects.", "contents": "Idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. 2. Differences between hypercalciuric and normocalciuric persons with recurrent kidney stone formation and persons without such a history. Normocalciuric and hypercalciuric patients with idiopathic recurrent calcium nephrolithiasis were compared with healthy individuals without such a history to examine the factors that predispose normocalciuric patients to stone formation. The urine calcium excretion rate was higher in the normocalciuric patients than in the control subjects (227 v. 183 mg/24 h; P less than 0.01), but the urine calcium concentration was not significantly different. The urine magnesium and citrate excretion rates and concentrations were lower in the normocalciuric patients than in the control subjects (P less than 0.001), while the urine uric acid and oxalate excretion rates and concentrations and the urine saturation with brushite (CaHPO4-2H2O) were not significantly different. These results suggest the importance of slight increases in the urine calcium excretion rate together with decreased urine magnesium and citrate excretion rates in normocalciuric persons with recurrent calcium stone formation. The urine of the hypercalciuric patients was more highly saturated with brushite than the urine of the normocalciuric patients and the control subjects, and the excretion rates of uric acid and oxalate were increased in the hypercalciuric patients. The hypercalciuric patients had a higher urine creatinine excretion rate than the normocalciuric patients and a higher daily urine volume than the control subjects, which suggests that differences in lean body mass or fluid and food intake, or both, may be important determinants of these differences in crystalloid excretion. As in the normocalciuric patients, the urine citrate excretion rate and concentration were decreased in the hypercalciuric patients compared with the control subjects.", "PMID": 436048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2978", "title": "Videotape educational program for people with asthma.", "content": "A videotape educational program was produced for use in adults with asthma. The program provided an overview of lung function, the physiologic abnormalities and treatment of asthma, and the approach to common problems encountered by the patients. Its benefits were examined in a randomized controlled study. The efficacy of the program in 62 patients whose mean duration of illness was 17 years was assessed by comparing the level of knowledge of the experimental group immediately after viewing the tape with that of the controls, who had not seen it; the experimental group scored significantly higher than the control group. Retention of knowledge attributed to the program was assessed after a mean interval of 16 months. The knowledge test score of the experimental group was found to have decreased to the level of the control group. The main areas in which the experimental group lost knowledge were self-care and drug therapy for asthma. The medical status of the two groups did not change appreciably over the period of the study.", "contents": "Videotape educational program for people with asthma. A videotape educational program was produced for use in adults with asthma. The program provided an overview of lung function, the physiologic abnormalities and treatment of asthma, and the approach to common problems encountered by the patients. Its benefits were examined in a randomized controlled study. The efficacy of the program in 62 patients whose mean duration of illness was 17 years was assessed by comparing the level of knowledge of the experimental group immediately after viewing the tape with that of the controls, who had not seen it; the experimental group scored significantly higher than the control group. Retention of knowledge attributed to the program was assessed after a mean interval of 16 months. The knowledge test score of the experimental group was found to have decreased to the level of the control group. The main areas in which the experimental group lost knowledge were self-care and drug therapy for asthma. The medical status of the two groups did not change appreciably over the period of the study.", "PMID": 436049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2979", "title": "Analysis of sudden unexpected death in southern Ontario, with emphasis on myocarditis.", "content": "The records of all 2427 autopsies performed at the Brantford (Ont.) General and Paris (Ont.) Willett hospitals from Jan. 1, 1969 to Aug. 15, 1978 were reviewed. Of the 1299 cases of sudden unexpected death investigated by a coroner almost 28% were due to unnatural causes--violence or poisoning. The main cause of natural sudden death was coronary artery disease, which accounted for 43.3% of all the sudden unexpected deaths. In 20 cases the cause of death was thought to be viral myocarditis, and in 9 of the 20 there was serologic evidence of at least previous coxsackievirus disease. Two of the nine cases were of special interest because of the finding of giant-cell myocarditis in one and aortic valve disease in the other. Eleven of the 20 persons were aged 13 to 46 years. These findings support the view that the most serious manifestation of enterovirus infection today is cardiac damage by coxsackieviruses.", "contents": "Analysis of sudden unexpected death in southern Ontario, with emphasis on myocarditis. The records of all 2427 autopsies performed at the Brantford (Ont.) General and Paris (Ont.) Willett hospitals from Jan. 1, 1969 to Aug. 15, 1978 were reviewed. Of the 1299 cases of sudden unexpected death investigated by a coroner almost 28% were due to unnatural causes--violence or poisoning. The main cause of natural sudden death was coronary artery disease, which accounted for 43.3% of all the sudden unexpected deaths. In 20 cases the cause of death was thought to be viral myocarditis, and in 9 of the 20 there was serologic evidence of at least previous coxsackievirus disease. Two of the nine cases were of special interest because of the finding of giant-cell myocarditis in one and aortic valve disease in the other. Eleven of the 20 persons were aged 13 to 46 years. These findings support the view that the most serious manifestation of enterovirus infection today is cardiac damage by coxsackieviruses.", "PMID": 436050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2980", "title": "Role of medical teams in a community disaster plan.", "content": "In London, Ont. two mock disaster exercises have indicated the need for re-evaluating the role of medical disaster teams. To coordinate and direct these teams a medical on-site coordinating team, composed of three emergency physicians with an expanded and more clearly defined role, was formed. The role of the triage teams deployed from the hospital to assess and resuscitate casualties is reviewed in detail. In addition, the communication systems, availability and deployment of medical supplies, identification of medical personnel and tagging of casualties are discussed. Because a mass casualty episode is possible in any community, disaster planning and clear outlining of the role of medical disaster teams are needed.", "contents": "Role of medical teams in a community disaster plan. In London, Ont. two mock disaster exercises have indicated the need for re-evaluating the role of medical disaster teams. To coordinate and direct these teams a medical on-site coordinating team, composed of three emergency physicians with an expanded and more clearly defined role, was formed. The role of the triage teams deployed from the hospital to assess and resuscitate casualties is reviewed in detail. In addition, the communication systems, availability and deployment of medical supplies, identification of medical personnel and tagging of casualties are discussed. Because a mass casualty episode is possible in any community, disaster planning and clear outlining of the role of medical disaster teams are needed.", "PMID": 436068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2981", "title": "Anesthesia equipment malfunction: origins and clinical recognition.", "content": "Equipment malfunction is a problem of particular importance during anesthesia and resuscitation. A review of published reports shows that the most common clinical events involve endotracheal tubes, the inspired oxygen concentration, the volume of inspired anesthetic vapours and gases, and pressures in the breathing or ventilation system. It is concluded that protection of a patient from equipment malfunction depends on: (a) appropriate application of standards set by a national standards association; (b) careful evaluation of equipment prior to purchase; (c) comprehension of equipment function by the user; (d) conscientious routine servicing of all systems concerned with anesthesia and resuscitation, and checking after service and before clinical use; (e) preanesthesia testing of equipment, including the use of an oxygen analyser in the breathing circuit; (f) early inclusion of equipment malfunction in the differential diagnosis of events during anesthesia; and (g) rapid action that cannot present a new hazard to the patient to correct the results of apparatus malfunction.", "contents": "Anesthesia equipment malfunction: origins and clinical recognition. Equipment malfunction is a problem of particular importance during anesthesia and resuscitation. A review of published reports shows that the most common clinical events involve endotracheal tubes, the inspired oxygen concentration, the volume of inspired anesthetic vapours and gases, and pressures in the breathing or ventilation system. It is concluded that protection of a patient from equipment malfunction depends on: (a) appropriate application of standards set by a national standards association; (b) careful evaluation of equipment prior to purchase; (c) comprehension of equipment function by the user; (d) conscientious routine servicing of all systems concerned with anesthesia and resuscitation, and checking after service and before clinical use; (e) preanesthesia testing of equipment, including the use of an oxygen analyser in the breathing circuit; (f) early inclusion of equipment malfunction in the differential diagnosis of events during anesthesia; and (g) rapid action that cannot present a new hazard to the patient to correct the results of apparatus malfunction.", "PMID": 436069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2982", "title": "Metatarsophalangeal fusion for hallux valgus: indications and effect on the first metatarsal ray.", "content": "Arthrodesis of metatarsophalangeal joint was performed in 31 cases of severe hallux valgus. With the surgical technique used, which is described in detail, internal fixation and plaster cast immobilization were not necessary. Analysis of the results suggested that the operation is indicated for severe deformities in elderly patients, preferably women. The basic metatarsal deformity was corrected by the procedure.", "contents": "Metatarsophalangeal fusion for hallux valgus: indications and effect on the first metatarsal ray. Arthrodesis of metatarsophalangeal joint was performed in 31 cases of severe hallux valgus. With the surgical technique used, which is described in detail, internal fixation and plaster cast immobilization were not necessary. Analysis of the results suggested that the operation is indicated for severe deformities in elderly patients, preferably women. The basic metatarsal deformity was corrected by the procedure.", "PMID": 436070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2983", "title": "Sex differences in the utilization of health services for psychiatric problems in Saskatchewan.", "content": "Comprehensive data on all pscyhiatric patients in Saskatchewan show that women are substantially higher users of health services for psychiatric problems than are men. Women: 1) use up to twice as many services as men in the private sector, but use almost the same number of public sector services; 2) tend to be treated for psychosomatic and neurotic disorders on an outpatient basis; 3) have only a slightly greater chance than men of being hospitalized; and 4) are less likely than men to have organic or addictive diagnoses. These differentials in utilization cannot be explained by age, diagnoses and/or marital status. Sex is the best predictor of utilization. These results are largely consistent with utilization and epidemiological literature. It seems more likely that these sex differences in utilization result from the interaction of biology, sex roles, and the functioning and labelling processes of the health system rather than from any single factor. Combining Andersen's components of health behaviour with Freidson's lay-professional construction of illness continuum yields a possible framework for understanding sex differences in the utilization of psychiatric health services.", "contents": "Sex differences in the utilization of health services for psychiatric problems in Saskatchewan. Comprehensive data on all pscyhiatric patients in Saskatchewan show that women are substantially higher users of health services for psychiatric problems than are men. Women: 1) use up to twice as many services as men in the private sector, but use almost the same number of public sector services; 2) tend to be treated for psychosomatic and neurotic disorders on an outpatient basis; 3) have only a slightly greater chance than men of being hospitalized; and 4) are less likely than men to have organic or addictive diagnoses. These differentials in utilization cannot be explained by age, diagnoses and/or marital status. Sex is the best predictor of utilization. These results are largely consistent with utilization and epidemiological literature. It seems more likely that these sex differences in utilization result from the interaction of biology, sex roles, and the functioning and labelling processes of the health system rather than from any single factor. Combining Andersen's components of health behaviour with Freidson's lay-professional construction of illness continuum yields a possible framework for understanding sex differences in the utilization of psychiatric health services.", "PMID": 436078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2984", "title": "A review of women's psychotropic drug use.", "content": "This paper reviews current knowledge regarding the use of psychotropic drugs by women, who are more likely than males to be frequent and, particularly, steady users. Age and work status are also correlated with use in both sexes. Differences between the sexes in help-seeking behaviour, paths to the health care system and physician prescribing practices are also examined.", "contents": "A review of women's psychotropic drug use. This paper reviews current knowledge regarding the use of psychotropic drugs by women, who are more likely than males to be frequent and, particularly, steady users. Age and work status are also correlated with use in both sexes. Differences between the sexes in help-seeking behaviour, paths to the health care system and physician prescribing practices are also examined.", "PMID": 436079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2985", "title": "Middle income, divorced female heads of families: their lifestyles, health and stress levels.", "content": "Forty-five, French-Canadian female heads of families with adequate incomes and high educational levels were identified through newspaper ads. At time of interview, the subjects had been separated or divorced for from one to three years. Interviews showed that, unlike previous reports of divorced women and female heads of families, this group enjoyed relatively good health and normal stress levels, and were generally positive about being head of the family. Among the positive changes, the majority emphasized their greater autonomy, freedom, and sense of selfhood. Some mentioned improved relations with their children. On the negative side, loneliness, absence of the father (particularly for their sons), and limited social lives were most often mentioned. It was concluded that the role of head of family is perfectly acceptable for many economically viable women, though not necessarily ideal.", "contents": "Middle income, divorced female heads of families: their lifestyles, health and stress levels. Forty-five, French-Canadian female heads of families with adequate incomes and high educational levels were identified through newspaper ads. At time of interview, the subjects had been separated or divorced for from one to three years. Interviews showed that, unlike previous reports of divorced women and female heads of families, this group enjoyed relatively good health and normal stress levels, and were generally positive about being head of the family. Among the positive changes, the majority emphasized their greater autonomy, freedom, and sense of selfhood. Some mentioned improved relations with their children. On the negative side, loneliness, absence of the father (particularly for their sons), and limited social lives were most often mentioned. It was concluded that the role of head of family is perfectly acceptable for many economically viable women, though not necessarily ideal.", "PMID": 436080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2986", "title": "Successful coping styles in professional women.", "content": "This paper describes the experiences of seven women mental health professionals who met in a leaderless group over a period of a year and a half. There is a discussion of the conflicts for women in four major areas--competition, dependency needs, economic success and the search for role models, and the suggestion of possible successful resolutions in these conflict areas. The resolutions are a result of individual experiences and discussions in the group.", "contents": "Successful coping styles in professional women. This paper describes the experiences of seven women mental health professionals who met in a leaderless group over a period of a year and a half. There is a discussion of the conflicts for women in four major areas--competition, dependency needs, economic success and the search for role models, and the suggestion of possible successful resolutions in these conflict areas. The resolutions are a result of individual experiences and discussions in the group.", "PMID": 436081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2987", "title": "The directive sex therapies in psychiatric outpatient settings.", "content": "The treatment techniques and associated outcome studies of the directive sex therapies (DST) are briefly reviewed and data on the treatment of 12 couples are presented. The directive sex therapies have achieved rather impressive results but only with highly selected populations. Studies, such as the present, with a range of patients more typical of psychiatric outpatient settings have consistently achieved lower success rates. The important effect of patient selection on outcome with DST has, to date, received little attention. The present authors discuss selection criteria for DST in the light of the literature and the outcome in their own cases.", "contents": "The directive sex therapies in psychiatric outpatient settings. The treatment techniques and associated outcome studies of the directive sex therapies (DST) are briefly reviewed and data on the treatment of 12 couples are presented. The directive sex therapies have achieved rather impressive results but only with highly selected populations. Studies, such as the present, with a range of patients more typical of psychiatric outpatient settings have consistently achieved lower success rates. The important effect of patient selection on outcome with DST has, to date, received little attention. The present authors discuss selection criteria for DST in the light of the literature and the outcome in their own cases.", "PMID": 436082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2988", "title": "The psychiatrist-woman patient relationship.", "content": "This paper contends that the psychiatrist-woman patient relationship is affected by a number of powerful, yet often subtle, pressures. There are three major interacting sets of factors: the medical and mental health systems and the process of medicalization of life that has taken place over the last century; the psychiatrist, his or her training, attitude and theoretical background; and the woman patient, her socialization and view of the world which is based on perspectives formulated from a male viewpoint. As a result of these factors, any woman referred to a psychiatrist is likely to be given a psychiatric diagnosis, her problems viewed as individual and intrapsychic, the societal obstacles she faces ignored or minimized, and treatment probably geared to helping her adapt to traditional expectations. The implications for therapy are discussed, with emphasis on the need to appreciate how women have been forced into a second-hand understanding of the world. Alternatives to traditional psychotherapy are discussed briefly, stressing the need for recognition and use of these resources.", "contents": "The psychiatrist-woman patient relationship. This paper contends that the psychiatrist-woman patient relationship is affected by a number of powerful, yet often subtle, pressures. There are three major interacting sets of factors: the medical and mental health systems and the process of medicalization of life that has taken place over the last century; the psychiatrist, his or her training, attitude and theoretical background; and the woman patient, her socialization and view of the world which is based on perspectives formulated from a male viewpoint. As a result of these factors, any woman referred to a psychiatrist is likely to be given a psychiatric diagnosis, her problems viewed as individual and intrapsychic, the societal obstacles she faces ignored or minimized, and treatment probably geared to helping her adapt to traditional expectations. The implications for therapy are discussed, with emphasis on the need to appreciate how women have been forced into a second-hand understanding of the world. Alternatives to traditional psychotherapy are discussed briefly, stressing the need for recognition and use of these resources.", "PMID": 436083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2989", "title": "Early symptoms of bioplar affective psychosis: research and clinical implications.", "content": "Review of the available literature shows that BP psychosis rarely reveals itself earlier in life, either by alternate psychiatric illness or by impairment in educational or occupational achievement. There is some evidence from early onset cases that the illness can evolve slowly but systematic studies are lacking. The possibility is raised that what was previously regarded as a premorbid \"affective\" (cyclothymic or hypomanic) personality may represent the early stages of the illness itself. This view requires prospective validation. Some research implications are discussed.", "contents": "Early symptoms of bioplar affective psychosis: research and clinical implications. Review of the available literature shows that BP psychosis rarely reveals itself earlier in life, either by alternate psychiatric illness or by impairment in educational or occupational achievement. There is some evidence from early onset cases that the illness can evolve slowly but systematic studies are lacking. The possibility is raised that what was previously regarded as a premorbid \"affective\" (cyclothymic or hypomanic) personality may represent the early stages of the illness itself. This view requires prospective validation. Some research implications are discussed.", "PMID": 436084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2990", "title": "Two shootings.", "content": "These two cases illustrate varying ways in which paranoid states can result in violence. The first case is a non-schizophrenic, non-alcoholic lifestyle, and the second shows the more classical paranoia associated with immigration, symptomatic use of alcohol, homosexual fears, and schizophrenic thought disorder.", "contents": "Two shootings. These two cases illustrate varying ways in which paranoid states can result in violence. The first case is a non-schizophrenic, non-alcoholic lifestyle, and the second shows the more classical paranoia associated with immigration, symptomatic use of alcohol, homosexual fears, and schizophrenic thought disorder.", "PMID": 436085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2991", "title": "Clinical aspects of the countertransference.", "content": "Some of the ways in which countertransference reactions may manifest themselves are outlined in a series of case examples, which also illustrate how the therapist's recognition of the countertransference brought to light hitherto unrecognized transference resistances, thereby permitting their interpretation and progress in therapy. A number of technical steps for dealing with the countertransference are outlined, along with the reminder that while attention to the countertransference is important the therapist's principal focus must remain with the patient.", "contents": "Clinical aspects of the countertransference. Some of the ways in which countertransference reactions may manifest themselves are outlined in a series of case examples, which also illustrate how the therapist's recognition of the countertransference brought to light hitherto unrecognized transference resistances, thereby permitting their interpretation and progress in therapy. A number of technical steps for dealing with the countertransference are outlined, along with the reminder that while attention to the countertransference is important the therapist's principal focus must remain with the patient.", "PMID": 436087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2992", "title": "Evaluating the competence of psychotherapists.", "content": "Pressure is increasing to develop methods for evaluating the competence of psychotherapists, not only in the field of education but also in clinical practice. The skills required of a psychotherapist have not yet been defined clearly, and are probably specific to kinds of patient and types of problem. However, there is a concensus that the capacity to establish a trusting relationship and to demonstrate concern, are essential. This relationship provides a \"power-base\" from which to influence the patient through a variety of elements which include \"interpretation\", modeling, and identification. Psychoanalysts assert that the \"working through\" of the transference is essential, but this is disputed by others. The evidence regarding the value of experience as a psychotherapist is unclear. Again there are conflicting reports. It appears that reasonable competence in technique can be acquired (through modeling) within the first year of training. It may be that the reason why experience does not emerge more strikingly as a positive factor, is that in the published material the more experienced psychotherapists treated the more difficult patients, and therefore the outcome of their treatment suffered. This paper touches on recent approaches at McMaster University to evaluate the competence of trainees; one by setting instructional objectives in family therapy, the other by means of a process analysis of videotaped interviews, in which residents and their supervisors participated. A single simulated patient was interviewed at two points in time, to indicate change and development in the psychotherapeutic techniques of the trainees.", "contents": "Evaluating the competence of psychotherapists. Pressure is increasing to develop methods for evaluating the competence of psychotherapists, not only in the field of education but also in clinical practice. The skills required of a psychotherapist have not yet been defined clearly, and are probably specific to kinds of patient and types of problem. However, there is a concensus that the capacity to establish a trusting relationship and to demonstrate concern, are essential. This relationship provides a \"power-base\" from which to influence the patient through a variety of elements which include \"interpretation\", modeling, and identification. Psychoanalysts assert that the \"working through\" of the transference is essential, but this is disputed by others. The evidence regarding the value of experience as a psychotherapist is unclear. Again there are conflicting reports. It appears that reasonable competence in technique can be acquired (through modeling) within the first year of training. It may be that the reason why experience does not emerge more strikingly as a positive factor, is that in the published material the more experienced psychotherapists treated the more difficult patients, and therefore the outcome of their treatment suffered. This paper touches on recent approaches at McMaster University to evaluate the competence of trainees; one by setting instructional objectives in family therapy, the other by means of a process analysis of videotaped interviews, in which residents and their supervisors participated. A single simulated patient was interviewed at two points in time, to indicate change and development in the psychotherapeutic techniques of the trainees.", "PMID": 436088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2993", "title": "Deployment, supervision and decision-making of residents in an emergency psychiatric service.", "content": "A lessening of personal discomfort felt by residents on-call in the Emergency Psychiatric Service has resulted from changes in the frequency of being on-call, exclusion of beginning residents from duty and arranging for the presence of a faculty psychiatrist for one or two hours during each on-call period. Coincidental significant reductions in the number of cases admitted to hospital and reductions in the proportion of discrepancies between diagnoses made by the emergency resident and those made later by inpatient unit staff have been described. The relationship of the changes in resident experience to the reduction in admissions and decreased proportion of diagnostic discrepancy has been discussed using a model of the process of emergency psychiatric admission described earlier by Bartolucci et al. (1). Less isolation, anxiety and some increased experience on the part of the psychiatric residents on duty in the Emergency Psychiatric Service results in greater awareness and better appraisal of the non-medical aspects of psychiatric emergencies.", "contents": "Deployment, supervision and decision-making of residents in an emergency psychiatric service. A lessening of personal discomfort felt by residents on-call in the Emergency Psychiatric Service has resulted from changes in the frequency of being on-call, exclusion of beginning residents from duty and arranging for the presence of a faculty psychiatrist for one or two hours during each on-call period. Coincidental significant reductions in the number of cases admitted to hospital and reductions in the proportion of discrepancies between diagnoses made by the emergency resident and those made later by inpatient unit staff have been described. The relationship of the changes in resident experience to the reduction in admissions and decreased proportion of diagnostic discrepancy has been discussed using a model of the process of emergency psychiatric admission described earlier by Bartolucci et al. (1). Less isolation, anxiety and some increased experience on the part of the psychiatric residents on duty in the Emergency Psychiatric Service results in greater awareness and better appraisal of the non-medical aspects of psychiatric emergencies.", "PMID": 436089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2994", "title": "\"Dislocation of expectations\" (management of violence on a general hospital psychiatric unit).", "content": "An approach to the management of potential violence on a General Hospital Psychiatric Unit is described as it evolved following analysis of the successful handling of a series of problem patients. The importance of an attitude of acceptance towards potentially violent persons is emphasized as is an orientation towards prevention. An approach of consistency and directness with enhancement of the patient's positive personality features is favoured. The initial assessment is considered important and clues to the prediction of violence are highlighted, as are aspects of the supervision plan. A specific technique for prevention of violence based on the principle of Dislocation of Expectations, or doing differently than the subject expects, is introduced.", "contents": "\"Dislocation of expectations\" (management of violence on a general hospital psychiatric unit). An approach to the management of potential violence on a General Hospital Psychiatric Unit is described as it evolved following analysis of the successful handling of a series of problem patients. The importance of an attitude of acceptance towards potentially violent persons is emphasized as is an orientation towards prevention. An approach of consistency and directness with enhancement of the patient's positive personality features is favoured. The initial assessment is considered important and clues to the prediction of violence are highlighted, as are aspects of the supervision plan. A specific technique for prevention of violence based on the principle of Dislocation of Expectations, or doing differently than the subject expects, is introduced.", "PMID": 436090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2995", "title": "A socio-psychiatric profile of emergency service patients.", "content": "A study of patients using the psychiatric emergency services of the Royal Ottawa Hospital was undertaken to determine their demographic and clinical characteristics, correlations between the two and comparisons with other studies. Special clinical forms of every fifth patient seen were analyzed and the data presented. These data are useful in the planning of and establishing and operating a psychiatric emergency service with an attached short-term inpatient unit, as well as assessing the feasibility and value of crisis intervention and brief psychotherapy in treating patients quickly.", "contents": "A socio-psychiatric profile of emergency service patients. A study of patients using the psychiatric emergency services of the Royal Ottawa Hospital was undertaken to determine their demographic and clinical characteristics, correlations between the two and comparisons with other studies. Special clinical forms of every fifth patient seen were analyzed and the data presented. These data are useful in the planning of and establishing and operating a psychiatric emergency service with an attached short-term inpatient unit, as well as assessing the feasibility and value of crisis intervention and brief psychotherapy in treating patients quickly.", "PMID": 436091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2996", "title": "The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH): an overview.", "content": "We have reviewed 14 cases of water intoxication in psychiatric patients. In these cases the possibility of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) was suspected or diagnosed. The SIADH should be suspected in psychotic patients who drink water excessively, develop seizures, disorientation and deterioration of mental status.", "contents": "The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH): an overview. We have reviewed 14 cases of water intoxication in psychiatric patients. In these cases the possibility of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) was suspected or diagnosed. The SIADH should be suspected in psychotic patients who drink water excessively, develop seizures, disorientation and deterioration of mental status.", "PMID": 436092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2997", "title": "Insight and hospital adjustment.", "content": "The relationship between insight and adjustment in schizophrenics was examined. Subjects who scored higher on a paper-and-pencil insight test were rated by hospital staff as better adjusted behaviourally but described themselves as more psychologically distressed than presumably less insightful subjects. Results were discussed in relation to the notion that insight in schizophrenics may intensify subjective distress while conducing to behavioural adaptation.", "contents": "Insight and hospital adjustment. The relationship between insight and adjustment in schizophrenics was examined. Subjects who scored higher on a paper-and-pencil insight test were rated by hospital staff as better adjusted behaviourally but described themselves as more psychologically distressed than presumably less insightful subjects. Results were discussed in relation to the notion that insight in schizophrenics may intensify subjective distress while conducing to behavioural adaptation.", "PMID": 436093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2998", "title": "The induction of acute psychosis in a group setting.", "content": "The case histories of two patients are described, each of whom suffered a severe psychotic decompensation, one apparently schizophreniform and the other affective, after attending a seven day marathon group conducted by a charismatic, aggressive leader. The work of Yalom and Lieberman is reviewed, with regard to leader and participant characteristics in encounter group casualties. Drawing upon the work of Bion and Kernberg, a specific means for the induction of psychosis is suggested, involving primitive splitting and the projection of \"all bad\" self-object constellations within a group setting.", "contents": "The induction of acute psychosis in a group setting. The case histories of two patients are described, each of whom suffered a severe psychotic decompensation, one apparently schizophreniform and the other affective, after attending a seven day marathon group conducted by a charismatic, aggressive leader. The work of Yalom and Lieberman is reviewed, with regard to leader and participant characteristics in encounter group casualties. Drawing upon the work of Bion and Kernberg, a specific means for the induction of psychosis is suggested, involving primitive splitting and the projection of \"all bad\" self-object constellations within a group setting.", "PMID": 436094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_2999", "title": "Names and dream-work.", "content": "Four dreams are reported in which associations leading to previously unacknowledged material were elicited by asking about names. Inquiry into names and distortions of names (rhymes, puns, contractions, initials, visual symbols) is a useful technique in the provocation of emotionally-laden connections. A possible explanation lies in the parallel between naturally occurring name transformations and the dream work of regression, displacement, condensation and symbolization.", "contents": "Names and dream-work. Four dreams are reported in which associations leading to previously unacknowledged material were elicited by asking about names. Inquiry into names and distortions of names (rhymes, puns, contractions, initials, visual symbols) is a useful technique in the provocation of emotionally-laden connections. A possible explanation lies in the parallel between naturally occurring name transformations and the dream work of regression, displacement, condensation and symbolization.", "PMID": 436095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3000", "title": "Manic depressive illness in adolescence and childhood: review and case report.", "content": "The literature on this topic from its inception by Kraepelin is reviewed. While Kraepelin and the French school always recognized juvenile mania, the Anglo-American school has no such unanimity of opinion. Less than 100 cases are described in the world literature. In Canada affective psychoses are rarely diagnosed under age 10 and of all affective psychoses admitted to institutions less than 5% are under age 20. The differences between child and adult mania are outlined. It is proposed that manic-depressive illness occurs in children but is not diagnosed more often because of its dissimilar presentation to the adult form and doubts about its existence in childhood. The case history of a 14 year old boy who presented in a hypomanic state is described. There was a strong family history of affective disorder. Both his parents and his half-sister were already on lithium for manic-depressive illness.", "contents": "Manic depressive illness in adolescence and childhood: review and case report. The literature on this topic from its inception by Kraepelin is reviewed. While Kraepelin and the French school always recognized juvenile mania, the Anglo-American school has no such unanimity of opinion. Less than 100 cases are described in the world literature. In Canada affective psychoses are rarely diagnosed under age 10 and of all affective psychoses admitted to institutions less than 5% are under age 20. The differences between child and adult mania are outlined. It is proposed that manic-depressive illness occurs in children but is not diagnosed more often because of its dissimilar presentation to the adult form and doubts about its existence in childhood. The case history of a 14 year old boy who presented in a hypomanic state is described. There was a strong family history of affective disorder. Both his parents and his half-sister were already on lithium for manic-depressive illness.", "PMID": 436097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3001", "title": "A review of pseudorabies (Aujeszky's disease) in pigs.", "content": "The main features in terms of etiology, clinical signs, pathogenesis, pathology, diagnosis, epizootiology and control and prevention that are known about pseudorabies are briefly reviewed. Areas still lacking in information which may provide more effective and reliable means of dealing with pseudorabies are mentioned and recommendations using available tools and knowledge to deal with the problem of pseudorabies are given.", "contents": "A review of pseudorabies (Aujeszky's disease) in pigs. The main features in terms of etiology, clinical signs, pathogenesis, pathology, diagnosis, epizootiology and control and prevention that are known about pseudorabies are briefly reviewed. Areas still lacking in information which may provide more effective and reliable means of dealing with pseudorabies are mentioned and recommendations using available tools and knowledge to deal with the problem of pseudorabies are given.", "PMID": 436099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3002", "title": "Pathological studies of \"Sudden death syndrome\" in broiler chickens.", "content": "Sudden death syndrome usually occurs in heavy, fast-growing and healthy-looking broilers. Most of the affected birds are males. The characteristic necropsy changes are seen in well-fleshed broilers with edema and generalized pulmonary congestion, recently ingested feed in the crop and gizzard, distended intestine with creamy content and empty gall bladder. The liver and kidneys are slightly enlarged and the latter have patchy areas of subcapsular hemorrhage. The heart contains clotted blood in the atria but the ventricles are often empty and the left ventricle in particular assumes a hypertrophied appearance. Microscopic examination of heart muscle reveals degeneration of fibers, separation of cardiac muscle fibers by edema and infiltration of heterophils. The lungs have severe vascular congestion, inflammatory cell infiltration in the mucosa of the secondary bronchi and edema fluid in the tertiary bronchi and interlobular connective tissue. The liver has moderate bile duct hyperplasia, periportal hepatitis and mononuclear cell infiltration adjacent to bile ducts which possibly leads to bile duct constriction. The kidneys have subcapsular and parenchymatous hemorrhage.", "contents": "Pathological studies of \"Sudden death syndrome\" in broiler chickens. Sudden death syndrome usually occurs in heavy, fast-growing and healthy-looking broilers. Most of the affected birds are males. The characteristic necropsy changes are seen in well-fleshed broilers with edema and generalized pulmonary congestion, recently ingested feed in the crop and gizzard, distended intestine with creamy content and empty gall bladder. The liver and kidneys are slightly enlarged and the latter have patchy areas of subcapsular hemorrhage. The heart contains clotted blood in the atria but the ventricles are often empty and the left ventricle in particular assumes a hypertrophied appearance. Microscopic examination of heart muscle reveals degeneration of fibers, separation of cardiac muscle fibers by edema and infiltration of heterophils. The lungs have severe vascular congestion, inflammatory cell infiltration in the mucosa of the secondary bronchi and edema fluid in the tertiary bronchi and interlobular connective tissue. The liver has moderate bile duct hyperplasia, periportal hepatitis and mononuclear cell infiltration adjacent to bile ducts which possibly leads to bile duct constriction. The kidneys have subcapsular and parenchymatous hemorrhage.", "PMID": 436100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3003", "title": "Studies on effect of lighting on \"Sudden death syndrome\" in broiler chickens.", "content": "Broiler chicken flocks were studied to determine the mortality from sudden death syndrome occurring in the flocks. The difference in the incidence of the syndrome in pullets and cockerels, and the age at which the most birds are affected were also studied. The weight of sudden death syndrome birds was compared with the flock average and the effect of continuous lighting as opposed to intermittent lighting was examined. The results suggest that; continuous lighting produces more sudden death syndrome deaths than intermittent lighting; that the incidence of sudden death syndrome is higher in cockerels than pullets; that the highest death rate occurred during the third and fourth weeks of life, and that sudden death syndrome birds on the average were heavier than the flock average.", "contents": "Studies on effect of lighting on \"Sudden death syndrome\" in broiler chickens. Broiler chicken flocks were studied to determine the mortality from sudden death syndrome occurring in the flocks. The difference in the incidence of the syndrome in pullets and cockerels, and the age at which the most birds are affected were also studied. The weight of sudden death syndrome birds was compared with the flock average and the effect of continuous lighting as opposed to intermittent lighting was examined. The results suggest that; continuous lighting produces more sudden death syndrome deaths than intermittent lighting; that the incidence of sudden death syndrome is higher in cockerels than pullets; that the highest death rate occurred during the third and fourth weeks of life, and that sudden death syndrome birds on the average were heavier than the flock average.", "PMID": 436101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3004", "title": "Vascular ring anomalies: case report and brief review.", "content": "During early fetal life six pair of aortic arches surround the esophagus and trachea. Normal maturation and selective regression of these structures form the adult vasculature. Abnormal location or development of the aortic arches may result in pressure on adjacent organs. Vascular ring anomalies must be considered with any patient with a history of regurgitating food shortly after eating. Physical examination, test feedings, survey and contrast radiographs may give an accurate impression of the problem but a final diagnosis can only be made following surgical exploration. In the case presented, the dog had all the clinical and diagnostic signs suggestive of a vascular ring anomaly. Thoracotomy and elimination of the vascular constriction around the esophagus was both diagnostic and therapeutic for the condition. It is important that owners be made aware that surgical correction of the stenosis does not guarantee a successful conclusion to the case. If the dilation of the esophagus cranial to the stenosis is severe, accumulation of food with subsequent regurgitation may persist. A dilation of the esophagus caudal to the stenosis is present in a large percentage of cases and this also may result in an unrelenting problem. Unfortunately, the probability of these complications cannot be accurately evaluated prior to treatment.The hereditary potential for this defect must also be considered. Congenital vascular anomalies such as patent ductus arteriosus would seem to have a hereditary basis. Therefore, it is probably correct to advise against breeding affected animals. Further, the inbreeding of nonaffected animals which come from litters containing affected animals should be avoided.", "contents": "Vascular ring anomalies: case report and brief review. During early fetal life six pair of aortic arches surround the esophagus and trachea. Normal maturation and selective regression of these structures form the adult vasculature. Abnormal location or development of the aortic arches may result in pressure on adjacent organs. Vascular ring anomalies must be considered with any patient with a history of regurgitating food shortly after eating. Physical examination, test feedings, survey and contrast radiographs may give an accurate impression of the problem but a final diagnosis can only be made following surgical exploration. In the case presented, the dog had all the clinical and diagnostic signs suggestive of a vascular ring anomaly. Thoracotomy and elimination of the vascular constriction around the esophagus was both diagnostic and therapeutic for the condition. It is important that owners be made aware that surgical correction of the stenosis does not guarantee a successful conclusion to the case. If the dilation of the esophagus cranial to the stenosis is severe, accumulation of food with subsequent regurgitation may persist. A dilation of the esophagus caudal to the stenosis is present in a large percentage of cases and this also may result in an unrelenting problem. Unfortunately, the probability of these complications cannot be accurately evaluated prior to treatment.The hereditary potential for this defect must also be considered. Congenital vascular anomalies such as patent ductus arteriosus would seem to have a hereditary basis. Therefore, it is probably correct to advise against breeding affected animals. Further, the inbreeding of nonaffected animals which come from litters containing affected animals should be avoided.", "PMID": 436102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3005", "title": "Mushroom poisoning in a dog.", "content": "The false morel (Gyromitra esculenta), a mushroom responsible for occasional fatalities in man, caused a fatal hemolytic episode in a ten week old dog. The clinical symptoms observed and the gross and histopathological findings, are discussed.", "contents": "Mushroom poisoning in a dog. The false morel (Gyromitra esculenta), a mushroom responsible for occasional fatalities in man, caused a fatal hemolytic episode in a ten week old dog. The clinical symptoms observed and the gross and histopathological findings, are discussed.", "PMID": 436103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3006", "title": "Ischaemic embolic myelopathy in a Labrador crossbred dog.", "content": "A case of ischaemic embolic myelopathy in a dog is described. It was demonstrated histologically that these focal ischaemic lesions were associated with emboli, histochemically identified as fibrocartilagenous.", "contents": "Ischaemic embolic myelopathy in a Labrador crossbred dog. A case of ischaemic embolic myelopathy in a dog is described. It was demonstrated histologically that these focal ischaemic lesions were associated with emboli, histochemically identified as fibrocartilagenous.", "PMID": 436104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3007", "title": "Blood levels of sulfamethazine achieved in beef calves on medicated drinking water.", "content": "Studies on the use of sodium sulfamethazine in drinking water at three levels (572, 1028 and 1848 mg/L) were conducted in healthy weaned beef calves under similar dietary and environmental conditions. Blood sulfonamide levels greater than 5 mg/dl were attained with each treatment level but at different time intervals. The maximum levels in blood were achieved with the highest concentration in the water. However, a reduction in water intake caused a lower than anticipated dose of sulfamethazine. Under the conditions of the experiment the administration of sulfonamide in drinking water may be an effective means of mass medication of cattle.", "contents": "Blood levels of sulfamethazine achieved in beef calves on medicated drinking water. Studies on the use of sodium sulfamethazine in drinking water at three levels (572, 1028 and 1848 mg/L) were conducted in healthy weaned beef calves under similar dietary and environmental conditions. Blood sulfonamide levels greater than 5 mg/dl were attained with each treatment level but at different time intervals. The maximum levels in blood were achieved with the highest concentration in the water. However, a reduction in water intake caused a lower than anticipated dose of sulfamethazine. Under the conditions of the experiment the administration of sulfonamide in drinking water may be an effective means of mass medication of cattle.", "PMID": 436105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3008", "title": "Topical treatment of experimental ringworm in guinea pigs with griseofulvin in dimethylsulfoxide.", "content": "The topical administration of 1.5% griseofulvin in dimethylsulfoxide for five to seven days was a satisfactory treatment regime for experimental ringworm in the guinea pig.", "contents": "Topical treatment of experimental ringworm in guinea pigs with griseofulvin in dimethylsulfoxide. The topical administration of 1.5% griseofulvin in dimethylsulfoxide for five to seven days was a satisfactory treatment regime for experimental ringworm in the guinea pig.", "PMID": 436106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3009", "title": "Case report: six cases of verminous pneumonia (Muellerius sp.) in goats.", "content": "Six cases of verminous pneumonia in goats due to Muellerius sp. were reviewed. In only one case was the pneumonia diagnosed antemortem. The gross necropsy findings and histopathology revealed a widespread interstitial pneumonia in all the cases. There was variability in the local reaction around the parasites from almost none in the mildest cases to larger focal accumulations of macrophages and mononuclear inflammatory cells. Only in the severest cases were eosinophils seen and even then were scattered and few in number. No nodular lesions were seen associated with the parasites. The pathology of the pulmonary lesions in goats appears to be more commonly of the diffuse type and therefore significantly different from the nodular lesion usually observed in sheep.", "contents": "Case report: six cases of verminous pneumonia (Muellerius sp.) in goats. Six cases of verminous pneumonia in goats due to Muellerius sp. were reviewed. In only one case was the pneumonia diagnosed antemortem. The gross necropsy findings and histopathology revealed a widespread interstitial pneumonia in all the cases. There was variability in the local reaction around the parasites from almost none in the mildest cases to larger focal accumulations of macrophages and mononuclear inflammatory cells. Only in the severest cases were eosinophils seen and even then were scattered and few in number. No nodular lesions were seen associated with the parasites. The pathology of the pulmonary lesions in goats appears to be more commonly of the diffuse type and therefore significantly different from the nodular lesion usually observed in sheep.", "PMID": 436107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3010", "title": "Equine respiratory disease on the Western Canadian racetracks.", "content": "The serological results from this study clearly show that both equine influenza and equine rhinopneumonitis viruses were present during spring and autumn epidemics of respiratory disease on Western Canadian racetracks. Approximately 11% of the horses showed significant convalescent titres to influenza while 9% showed significant convalescent titres for equine viral pneumonitis. It was noted in our study a positive vaccination history corresponded with a reduction in the severity of the respiratory infection.", "contents": "Equine respiratory disease on the Western Canadian racetracks. The serological results from this study clearly show that both equine influenza and equine rhinopneumonitis viruses were present during spring and autumn epidemics of respiratory disease on Western Canadian racetracks. Approximately 11% of the horses showed significant convalescent titres to influenza while 9% showed significant convalescent titres for equine viral pneumonitis. It was noted in our study a positive vaccination history corresponded with a reduction in the severity of the respiratory infection.", "PMID": 436108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3011", "title": "[Ecbolic and hormonal action of synthetic prostaglandin F2a in fetal mummification in two Holstein cows (author's transl)].", "content": "Ecbolic and Hormonal Action of Synthetic Prostaglandin F(2)a in Fetal Mummification in Two Holstein CowsThe effects of treatment with synthetic prostaglandin F(2)a (500mug i.m.) to correct cases of fetal mummification in two Holstein cows are described.", "contents": "[Ecbolic and hormonal action of synthetic prostaglandin F2a in fetal mummification in two Holstein cows (author's transl)]. Ecbolic and Hormonal Action of Synthetic Prostaglandin F(2)a in Fetal Mummification in Two Holstein CowsThe effects of treatment with synthetic prostaglandin F(2)a (500mug i.m.) to correct cases of fetal mummification in two Holstein cows are described.", "PMID": 436109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3012", "title": "Transplacental effect of diethylstilbestrol in female rats.", "content": "The effect of diethylstilbestrol propionate (DES; 1 mg/kg body wt. was studied in the female offspring of rats exposed subcutaneously on the 19th day of gestation. Examination of vaginal smears showed persistent estrus in adult rats treated prenatally with DES. Compensatory ovarian hypertrophy (COH) induced by hemicastration of these rats was not suppressed by estrogens. A per oral test for glucose-tolerance revealed decreased utilization of glucose in the offspring of DES-treated rats. Preliminary observations demonstrated that tumors developed in 14 of 18 (77.8%) progeny transplacentally expoed to DES and in 9 of 34 (26.5%) intact control rats. Tumors of the ovary and the endometrium were found only in the rats treated prenatally with DES; no tumors of the uterine cervix or vagina were observed in either experimental or control groups. It is suggested that a transplacental effect of DES in the female is impairment of the sex differentiation of the hypothalamus. The resulting hormonal and metabolic shifts might promote tumorigenesis.", "contents": "Transplacental effect of diethylstilbestrol in female rats. The effect of diethylstilbestrol propionate (DES; 1 mg/kg body wt. was studied in the female offspring of rats exposed subcutaneously on the 19th day of gestation. Examination of vaginal smears showed persistent estrus in adult rats treated prenatally with DES. Compensatory ovarian hypertrophy (COH) induced by hemicastration of these rats was not suppressed by estrogens. A per oral test for glucose-tolerance revealed decreased utilization of glucose in the offspring of DES-treated rats. Preliminary observations demonstrated that tumors developed in 14 of 18 (77.8%) progeny transplacentally expoed to DES and in 9 of 34 (26.5%) intact control rats. Tumors of the ovary and the endometrium were found only in the rats treated prenatally with DES; no tumors of the uterine cervix or vagina were observed in either experimental or control groups. It is suggested that a transplacental effect of DES in the female is impairment of the sex differentiation of the hypothalamus. The resulting hormonal and metabolic shifts might promote tumorigenesis.", "PMID": 436110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3013", "title": "Carcinogenic effect of N-bis(2-hydroxypropyl)nitrosamine by a single administration in rats.", "content": "The carcinogenic effect of a single intraperitoneal injection of N-bis)2-hydroxypropyl)nitrosamine (BHP) was studied in male Wistar rats. Lung tumors (adenomas and adenocarcinomas) had the highest incidence (100%). Fewer neoplasms were induced in the thyroid (adenomas and adenocarcinomas, 36%), kidney (renal cell carcinomas, 8%), and the sigmoid colon (adenomas and adenocarcinomas, 9%). No pancreatic neoplasms were found.", "contents": "Carcinogenic effect of N-bis(2-hydroxypropyl)nitrosamine by a single administration in rats. The carcinogenic effect of a single intraperitoneal injection of N-bis)2-hydroxypropyl)nitrosamine (BHP) was studied in male Wistar rats. Lung tumors (adenomas and adenocarcinomas) had the highest incidence (100%). Fewer neoplasms were induced in the thyroid (adenomas and adenocarcinomas, 36%), kidney (renal cell carcinomas, 8%), and the sigmoid colon (adenomas and adenocarcinomas, 9%). No pancreatic neoplasms were found.", "PMID": 436111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3014", "title": "Enhanced urinary excretion of 7,8-dihydro-6-hydroxylumazine by mice bearing the Ehrlich ascites tumour.", "content": "A fluorescent urinary metabolite, excreted by mice carrying the Ehrlich ascites tumour (EAT), has been identified as 7,8-dihydro-6-hydroxylumazine. This finding agrees with other data which show that a disorder in pteridine metabolism is commonly associated with the presence of malignant growth.", "contents": "Enhanced urinary excretion of 7,8-dihydro-6-hydroxylumazine by mice bearing the Ehrlich ascites tumour. A fluorescent urinary metabolite, excreted by mice carrying the Ehrlich ascites tumour (EAT), has been identified as 7,8-dihydro-6-hydroxylumazine. This finding agrees with other data which show that a disorder in pteridine metabolism is commonly associated with the presence of malignant growth.", "PMID": 436112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3015", "title": "N6(Methylnitroso)adenosine: a carcinogenic nitrosamine derived from a naturally-occurring nucleoside.", "content": "N6(Methylnitroso) adenosine (M6(NO)Ado) is found readily under acidic conditions by the interaction of nitrite with 6-methyladenosine, a naturally-occurring nucleoside. Swiss mice were treated with M6(NO)Ado by injection (40 mg/kg each treatment) transplacentally and then as newborns and young adults. The incidences of lymphomas, primary lung tumors, and hepatic neoplasms were significantly greater in these treated animals than in controls. These results demonstrate the tumorigenicity of M6(NO)Ado.", "contents": "N6(Methylnitroso)adenosine: a carcinogenic nitrosamine derived from a naturally-occurring nucleoside. N6(Methylnitroso) adenosine (M6(NO)Ado) is found readily under acidic conditions by the interaction of nitrite with 6-methyladenosine, a naturally-occurring nucleoside. Swiss mice were treated with M6(NO)Ado by injection (40 mg/kg each treatment) transplacentally and then as newborns and young adults. The incidences of lymphomas, primary lung tumors, and hepatic neoplasms were significantly greater in these treated animals than in controls. These results demonstrate the tumorigenicity of M6(NO)Ado.", "PMID": 436113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3016", "title": "Ductular origin of pancreatic cancer and its multiplicity in man comparable to experimentally induced tumors. A preliminary study.", "content": "The histologic features of 3 randomly selected pancreatic cancer cases are compared with those found in Syrian hamsters after treatment with N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine (BOP). The 3 human cases all exhibited hyperplastic, preneoplastic and malignant changes which were markedly multicentric, and which arose predominantly from ductules, as well as from small ducts. The findings were comparable to those in the hamster mode. Proliferation and malignant alterations of the intrainsular ductules were commonly seen in both human and experimental tumors. The data is consistent with the concept that cells of the small ducts and especially of the ductules represent a potential source of human, as well as experimental, tumors. The small number of human cases studied does not allow generalization, but the marked resemblances in all 3 randomly selected pancreatic cancer cases were remarkable.", "contents": "Ductular origin of pancreatic cancer and its multiplicity in man comparable to experimentally induced tumors. A preliminary study. The histologic features of 3 randomly selected pancreatic cancer cases are compared with those found in Syrian hamsters after treatment with N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine (BOP). The 3 human cases all exhibited hyperplastic, preneoplastic and malignant changes which were markedly multicentric, and which arose predominantly from ductules, as well as from small ducts. The findings were comparable to those in the hamster mode. Proliferation and malignant alterations of the intrainsular ductules were commonly seen in both human and experimental tumors. The data is consistent with the concept that cells of the small ducts and especially of the ductules represent a potential source of human, as well as experimental, tumors. The small number of human cases studied does not allow generalization, but the marked resemblances in all 3 randomly selected pancreatic cancer cases were remarkable.", "PMID": 436114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3017", "title": "Phagocytosis of asbestos fibers by human pulmonary alveolar macrophages.", "content": "Human pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) were cultured for 24--72 h with varying concentrations (0--300 microgram/ml) of amosite asbestos (AS). At lower AS concentrations, (less than 100 microgram/ml) no decrease in cell viability occurred during the first 24 h of culture. Significant cytotoxicity (P less than 0.005 in all instances) was observed, however, following incubation for 24 h with higher AS concentrations (greater than 100 microgram/ml). Even following incubation with lower concentrations of AS, significant cytotoxicity (P less than 0.006 in all instances) was observed after 48 or 72 h of culture. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) clearly illustrates the various stages of AS phagocytosis by PAMs. SEM also documented morphological changes in PAMs following AS exposure. These included increased zeiosis and the appearance of a fibrous-like material on the surface of AS fibers following initial contact with the PAM cytoplasmic membrane. Further study of the biological interactions between AS and human cells, such as PAMs, might provide valuable information regarding the etiology of AS-related lung disorders.", "contents": "Phagocytosis of asbestos fibers by human pulmonary alveolar macrophages. Human pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) were cultured for 24--72 h with varying concentrations (0--300 microgram/ml) of amosite asbestos (AS). At lower AS concentrations, (less than 100 microgram/ml) no decrease in cell viability occurred during the first 24 h of culture. Significant cytotoxicity (P less than 0.005 in all instances) was observed, however, following incubation for 24 h with higher AS concentrations (greater than 100 microgram/ml). Even following incubation with lower concentrations of AS, significant cytotoxicity (P less than 0.006 in all instances) was observed after 48 or 72 h of culture. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) clearly illustrates the various stages of AS phagocytosis by PAMs. SEM also documented morphological changes in PAMs following AS exposure. These included increased zeiosis and the appearance of a fibrous-like material on the surface of AS fibers following initial contact with the PAM cytoplasmic membrane. Further study of the biological interactions between AS and human cells, such as PAMs, might provide valuable information regarding the etiology of AS-related lung disorders.", "PMID": 436115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3018", "title": "The detection of various nitrosamines in the hepatocyte primary culture/DNA repair test.", "content": "Evaluation of 6 carcinogenic nitrosamines in the hepatocyte primary culture/DNA repair test revealed that all were active. Three non-carcinogenic analogs were negative. This sensitivity to nitrosamines, together with considerations concerning the metabolic capability and end point of this assay, indicates that it will be a useful addition to screening batteries that include bacterial mutagenesis assays.", "contents": "The detection of various nitrosamines in the hepatocyte primary culture/DNA repair test. Evaluation of 6 carcinogenic nitrosamines in the hepatocyte primary culture/DNA repair test revealed that all were active. Three non-carcinogenic analogs were negative. This sensitivity to nitrosamines, together with considerations concerning the metabolic capability and end point of this assay, indicates that it will be a useful addition to screening batteries that include bacterial mutagenesis assays.", "PMID": 436116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3019", "title": "Induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis in suspensions of rat hepatocytes by an environmental toxicant, 3,3'4,4'-tetrachloroazobenzene.", "content": "Unscheduled DNA synthesis was induced by 3,3'4,4'-tetrachloroazobenzene (TCAB)) in freshly isolated suspensions of rat hepatocytes. A dose-dependent response was demonstrated. Hepatocellular DNA was obtained after the chloroform-isoamyl alchohol-phenol extraction of the isolated nuclei. The induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis was measured by the incorporation of [3H]-thymidine in the presence of hydroxyurea as determined by the scintillation counting assay. DNA repair data obtained in this study on benzo[a]pyrene and methyl methanesulfonate are comparable to a previous report using primary cultures of hepatocytes and cesium chloride gradients. Hence, the present method offers promise as a rapid and sensitive screen for chemical carcinogens.", "contents": "Induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis in suspensions of rat hepatocytes by an environmental toxicant, 3,3'4,4'-tetrachloroazobenzene. Unscheduled DNA synthesis was induced by 3,3'4,4'-tetrachloroazobenzene (TCAB)) in freshly isolated suspensions of rat hepatocytes. A dose-dependent response was demonstrated. Hepatocellular DNA was obtained after the chloroform-isoamyl alchohol-phenol extraction of the isolated nuclei. The induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis was measured by the incorporation of [3H]-thymidine in the presence of hydroxyurea as determined by the scintillation counting assay. DNA repair data obtained in this study on benzo[a]pyrene and methyl methanesulfonate are comparable to a previous report using primary cultures of hepatocytes and cesium chloride gradients. Hence, the present method offers promise as a rapid and sensitive screen for chemical carcinogens.", "PMID": 436117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3020", "title": "A carcinogenicity study of pesticide dieldrin in hamsters.", "content": "Syrian golden hamsters were fed for their lifespan a diet containing 0, 20, 60 and 180 parts per million (ppm) Dieldrin. Tumour-bearing animals totaled 13% among control females and ranged between 3-15% in treated females. Eight per cent of male controls had tumours and between 16-23% of treated males. Incidences of endocrine organ tumours were comparable in all groups. A hepatoma was found in 1 female and 1 male led 180 ppm Dieldrin. The present results show that hamsters tolerate higher doses of Dieldrin than do mice and rats. No significant tumour incidence was observed in treated versus control Syrian golden hamsters.", "contents": "A carcinogenicity study of pesticide dieldrin in hamsters. Syrian golden hamsters were fed for their lifespan a diet containing 0, 20, 60 and 180 parts per million (ppm) Dieldrin. Tumour-bearing animals totaled 13% among control females and ranged between 3-15% in treated females. Eight per cent of male controls had tumours and between 16-23% of treated males. Incidences of endocrine organ tumours were comparable in all groups. A hepatoma was found in 1 female and 1 male led 180 ppm Dieldrin. The present results show that hamsters tolerate higher doses of Dieldrin than do mice and rats. No significant tumour incidence was observed in treated versus control Syrian golden hamsters.", "PMID": 436118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3021", "title": "Methyl glyoxal bis guanylhydrazone abolition of the toxic action of spermidine on cells in culture.", "content": "Spermidine inhibits many cells in culture because amine oxidase in the serum converts spermidine to toxic products. Methyl glyoxal bis guanylhydrazone (Methyl GAG) inhibits cells in culture because it is a specific inhibitor of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, preventing the conversion of putrescine to spermidine. When both spermidine and methyl GAG were added together, no inhibition was observed. The effect could be explained by the finding that methyl GAG was a powerful non-competitive inhibitor of the enzymatic oxidation of spermidine to acrolein.", "contents": "Methyl glyoxal bis guanylhydrazone abolition of the toxic action of spermidine on cells in culture. Spermidine inhibits many cells in culture because amine oxidase in the serum converts spermidine to toxic products. Methyl glyoxal bis guanylhydrazone (Methyl GAG) inhibits cells in culture because it is a specific inhibitor of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, preventing the conversion of putrescine to spermidine. When both spermidine and methyl GAG were added together, no inhibition was observed. The effect could be explained by the finding that methyl GAG was a powerful non-competitive inhibitor of the enzymatic oxidation of spermidine to acrolein.", "PMID": 436119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3022", "title": "Nicotine and cotinine in breast fluid.", "content": "Breast fluid which bathes the mammary ductal epithelium may contain tumorogenic components. In view of the number of tobacco components inhaled during smoking, it was of interest whether nicotine and its metabolites were present in this fluid. Fluid was obtained from the nipple from menstruating women who were smokers and non-smokers. In smokers, nicotine and cotinine were detectable in the fluid 30 min after smoking. Further analysis of breast fluid may give leads as to whether components present are related to breast carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Nicotine and cotinine in breast fluid. Breast fluid which bathes the mammary ductal epithelium may contain tumorogenic components. In view of the number of tobacco components inhaled during smoking, it was of interest whether nicotine and its metabolites were present in this fluid. Fluid was obtained from the nipple from menstruating women who were smokers and non-smokers. In smokers, nicotine and cotinine were detectable in the fluid 30 min after smoking. Further analysis of breast fluid may give leads as to whether components present are related to breast carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 436120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3023", "title": "O6-methylguanine accumulates in DNA of mammary glands after administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea to rats.", "content": "N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) induces mammary carcinoma in female rats when given intravenously. After a single intravenous dose of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (5 mg/100 g body wt.), we were unable to detect a shift of rat mammary gland DNA on an alkaline sucrose gradient. However, the alkylated products in DNA, 7-methylguanine and O6-methylguanine, were determined at various times following treatment with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. O6-Methylguanine was removed from the DNA at a slower rate than 7-methylguanine and increased in the DNA with a second injection of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. 3-Methyladenine was not detected in DNA from the mammary gland of the rat. These data support previous work with brain and bladder that suggest the persistence of O6-methylguanine in DNA might be involved in the induction of cancer by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea.", "contents": "O6-methylguanine accumulates in DNA of mammary glands after administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea to rats. N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) induces mammary carcinoma in female rats when given intravenously. After a single intravenous dose of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (5 mg/100 g body wt.), we were unable to detect a shift of rat mammary gland DNA on an alkaline sucrose gradient. However, the alkylated products in DNA, 7-methylguanine and O6-methylguanine, were determined at various times following treatment with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. O6-Methylguanine was removed from the DNA at a slower rate than 7-methylguanine and increased in the DNA with a second injection of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. 3-Methyladenine was not detected in DNA from the mammary gland of the rat. These data support previous work with brain and bladder that suggest the persistence of O6-methylguanine in DNA might be involved in the induction of cancer by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea.", "PMID": 436121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3024", "title": "Investigations on the carcinogenic burden by air pollution in man. Intratracheal instillation studies with benzo[a]pyrene in a mixture of Tris buffer and saline in Syrian golden hamsters.", "content": "Syrian golden hamster received intratracheal instillations of 0.125, 0.25, 0.50 or 1.0 mg benzo[a]pyrene (B[A]P) in a mixture of Tris buffer and physiological saline once weekly for life. Papillary polyps, squamous cell papillomas and carcinomas developed in both the larynx and trachea. In addition, bronchiogenic adenomas, adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas were induced in the lung. The highest incidence of respiratory tract tumours (83%) was seen in hamsters receiving 0.25 mg B[a]P. The results of these investigations are statistically evaluated and discussed.", "contents": "Investigations on the carcinogenic burden by air pollution in man. Intratracheal instillation studies with benzo[a]pyrene in a mixture of Tris buffer and saline in Syrian golden hamsters. Syrian golden hamster received intratracheal instillations of 0.125, 0.25, 0.50 or 1.0 mg benzo[a]pyrene (B[A]P) in a mixture of Tris buffer and physiological saline once weekly for life. Papillary polyps, squamous cell papillomas and carcinomas developed in both the larynx and trachea. In addition, bronchiogenic adenomas, adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas were induced in the lung. The highest incidence of respiratory tract tumours (83%) was seen in hamsters receiving 0.25 mg B[a]P. The results of these investigations are statistically evaluated and discussed.", "PMID": 436122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3025", "title": "The binding to mouse skin DNA of benzo[a]pyrene, its 7,8-diol and 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxides in relation to the tumorigenicity of these compounds.", "content": "Tritium labelled and carbon-14 labelled benzo[a]pyrene (PB), (+/-)trans 7,8-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene (PB-7,8-diol), (+/-)-7 alpha,8 beta-dihydroxy-9 beta,10 beta-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene and (+/-)-7 alpha, 8 beta-dihydroxy-9 alpha, 10 alpha-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]-pyrene were applied to the shaved backs of mice. After 24 h the DNA was isolated from the treated skin and the extent of hydrocarbon binding was determined. The level of DNA binding is considered in relation to the previously reported carcinogenicity of the various benzo[a]pyrene derivatives.", "contents": "The binding to mouse skin DNA of benzo[a]pyrene, its 7,8-diol and 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxides in relation to the tumorigenicity of these compounds. Tritium labelled and carbon-14 labelled benzo[a]pyrene (PB), (+/-)trans 7,8-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene (PB-7,8-diol), (+/-)-7 alpha,8 beta-dihydroxy-9 beta,10 beta-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene and (+/-)-7 alpha, 8 beta-dihydroxy-9 alpha, 10 alpha-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]-pyrene were applied to the shaved backs of mice. After 24 h the DNA was isolated from the treated skin and the extent of hydrocarbon binding was determined. The level of DNA binding is considered in relation to the previously reported carcinogenicity of the various benzo[a]pyrene derivatives.", "PMID": 436123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3026", "title": "Sodium lack prevents strophanthidin toxicity in Purkinje fibers.", "content": "The effect of strophanthidin on electrical and mechanical activity of canine cardiac Purkinje fibers perfused in vitro was tested in the presence and in the absence of sodium. The following results were obtained: (1) in Tyrode's solution, strophanthidin causes spontaneous fast rhythms; (2) perfusion of a tetraethylammonium (TEA) Na-free solution results in an initial slowing and quiescence followed by the development of spontaneous small potentials; (3) exposure to strophanthidin during the perfusion of the Na-free solution fails to induce an acceleration of spontaneous discharge; (4) on returning from Na-free to Tyrode's solution there is a temporary acceleration of the small potentials and this acceleration is larger and lasts longer when the Na-free solution contains strophanthidin, and (5) in fibers intoxicated with strophanthidin, exposure to Na-free solution stops the fast rhythms. It is concluded that sodium plays an important role in strophanthidin toxicity and no toxicity occurs when sodium is replaced by TEA.", "contents": "Sodium lack prevents strophanthidin toxicity in Purkinje fibers. The effect of strophanthidin on electrical and mechanical activity of canine cardiac Purkinje fibers perfused in vitro was tested in the presence and in the absence of sodium. The following results were obtained: (1) in Tyrode's solution, strophanthidin causes spontaneous fast rhythms; (2) perfusion of a tetraethylammonium (TEA) Na-free solution results in an initial slowing and quiescence followed by the development of spontaneous small potentials; (3) exposure to strophanthidin during the perfusion of the Na-free solution fails to induce an acceleration of spontaneous discharge; (4) on returning from Na-free to Tyrode's solution there is a temporary acceleration of the small potentials and this acceleration is larger and lasts longer when the Na-free solution contains strophanthidin, and (5) in fibers intoxicated with strophanthidin, exposure to Na-free solution stops the fast rhythms. It is concluded that sodium plays an important role in strophanthidin toxicity and no toxicity occurs when sodium is replaced by TEA.", "PMID": 436124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3027", "title": "Effect of posture on arterial pressures, timing of the arterial sounds and pulse wave velocities in the extremities.", "content": "We have recorded systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the intervals between the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram and the Korotkoff arterial sound at systolic and diastolic pressure (QKs and QKd, respectively), at the brachial and posterior malleolar arteries, for normal subjects in the supine, standing, or head-down positions on a tilt table. These data make it possible to calculate an apparent mean pulse wave velocity. Results indicate: (1) when the subject is supine (0 degrees), brachial and posterior malleolar artery blood pressures are virtually identical; (2) upon standing (+90 degrees), both systolic and diastolic pressures in the foot are elevated by a mean of approximately 70 mm Hg, whereas brachial artery systolic pressure is unaffected and brachial diastolic pressure is raised 7 mm of mercury; (3) conversely, in the head-down (feet-up) position (-30 degrees) the blood pressure in the foot was decreased approximately 20 mm of mercury, whereas the brachial arterial pressure is again unaffected; (4) as one changes from the head-down to the supine to the standing positions, the mean QKs interval at the brachial artery was increased by 5 and 15 msec, respectively; (5) conversely, the arrival of the pulse wave in the leg was hastened, with QKd decreasing by 7 and then 18 msec. The effects of QKs were slightly smaller in the brachial artery but considerably larger in the malleolar artery, with a decrease of 16 msec and then 48 msec; (6) mean apparent pulse wave velocity increases from 9.1 to 10.9 to 17.6 m/sec, as one changes from -30 degrees to 0 degrees to +90 degrees.", "contents": "Effect of posture on arterial pressures, timing of the arterial sounds and pulse wave velocities in the extremities. We have recorded systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the intervals between the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram and the Korotkoff arterial sound at systolic and diastolic pressure (QKs and QKd, respectively), at the brachial and posterior malleolar arteries, for normal subjects in the supine, standing, or head-down positions on a tilt table. These data make it possible to calculate an apparent mean pulse wave velocity. Results indicate: (1) when the subject is supine (0 degrees), brachial and posterior malleolar artery blood pressures are virtually identical; (2) upon standing (+90 degrees), both systolic and diastolic pressures in the foot are elevated by a mean of approximately 70 mm Hg, whereas brachial artery systolic pressure is unaffected and brachial diastolic pressure is raised 7 mm of mercury; (3) conversely, in the head-down (feet-up) position (-30 degrees) the blood pressure in the foot was decreased approximately 20 mm of mercury, whereas the brachial arterial pressure is again unaffected; (4) as one changes from the head-down to the supine to the standing positions, the mean QKs interval at the brachial artery was increased by 5 and 15 msec, respectively; (5) conversely, the arrival of the pulse wave in the leg was hastened, with QKd decreasing by 7 and then 18 msec. The effects of QKs were slightly smaller in the brachial artery but considerably larger in the malleolar artery, with a decrease of 16 msec and then 48 msec; (6) mean apparent pulse wave velocity increases from 9.1 to 10.9 to 17.6 m/sec, as one changes from -30 degrees to 0 degrees to +90 degrees.", "PMID": 436125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3028", "title": "The unbalanced heart. Animal models of cardiac dysrhythmias.", "content": "The heart often appears to function independently because it can maintain regular activity even when isolated from the rest of the body. Likewise, it maintains its regularity in the midst of powerful but balanced neural and pressure influences. Experimental situations designed to unbalance these forces produce rhythm disturbances resembling those encountered clinically. Unbalancing of the sympathetic supply with the parasympathetic supply totally obliterated, leads to tachycardias of various origin which are eliminated by adrenergic blockade. Removing the sinoatrial node results in atrial brady-tachyarrhythmia, eliminated by cholinergic blockade. Unbalancing the pressure load results in premature ventricular contractions that are clearly not mediated by external neural controls. Cardiac rhythm disturbances thus result from a variety of forces that may be readily tolerated when balanced by opposing forces but cannot be controlled without that buffer.", "contents": "The unbalanced heart. Animal models of cardiac dysrhythmias. The heart often appears to function independently because it can maintain regular activity even when isolated from the rest of the body. Likewise, it maintains its regularity in the midst of powerful but balanced neural and pressure influences. Experimental situations designed to unbalance these forces produce rhythm disturbances resembling those encountered clinically. Unbalancing of the sympathetic supply with the parasympathetic supply totally obliterated, leads to tachycardias of various origin which are eliminated by adrenergic blockade. Removing the sinoatrial node results in atrial brady-tachyarrhythmia, eliminated by cholinergic blockade. Unbalancing the pressure load results in premature ventricular contractions that are clearly not mediated by external neural controls. Cardiac rhythm disturbances thus result from a variety of forces that may be readily tolerated when balanced by opposing forces but cannot be controlled without that buffer.", "PMID": 436126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3029", "title": "Atrial acetylcholinesterase activity in various heart diseases of man.", "content": "Distribution and activity of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme in the human atrial myocardium was studied histochemically in a clinical series of patients subjected to cardiac surgery for (1) uncomplicated atrial septal defect (ASD), (2) ischaemic heart disease (IHD), (3) mitral and/or aortic valvular disease (VHD) necessitating replacement with a prosthetic valve, without major symptoms or signs of myocardial incompensation, or (4) clinically overt congestive heart failure (CHF) due to VHD prior to cardiac surgery. In all specimens, a rich distribution of acetylcholinesterase-positive single axons and small fascicles, constituting a three-dimensional nerve net, was observed within the myocardial tissue. This nerve net was obviously mainly parenchymatous, i.e. unrelated to the blood vessels. Small groups of acetylcholinesterase-positive small nerve cells were observed in some specimens, with loosely woven fascicles of axons emerging from one pole of the ganglia. No differences in the distribution of the acetylcholinesterase activity or in the pattern of the inbuilt intrinsic nervous apparatus were observed in the various groups of patients. All specimens were completely devoid of non-specific cholinesterase activity. It was concluded that (I) the human atrial myocardium is richly supplied with cholinergic intrinsic (post-ganglionic vagal) axons and (II) the acetylcholinesterase activity is not a major determinant of the parasympathetic abnormalities associated with cardiac diseases, especially with myocardial pump failure.", "contents": "Atrial acetylcholinesterase activity in various heart diseases of man. Distribution and activity of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme in the human atrial myocardium was studied histochemically in a clinical series of patients subjected to cardiac surgery for (1) uncomplicated atrial septal defect (ASD), (2) ischaemic heart disease (IHD), (3) mitral and/or aortic valvular disease (VHD) necessitating replacement with a prosthetic valve, without major symptoms or signs of myocardial incompensation, or (4) clinically overt congestive heart failure (CHF) due to VHD prior to cardiac surgery. In all specimens, a rich distribution of acetylcholinesterase-positive single axons and small fascicles, constituting a three-dimensional nerve net, was observed within the myocardial tissue. This nerve net was obviously mainly parenchymatous, i.e. unrelated to the blood vessels. Small groups of acetylcholinesterase-positive small nerve cells were observed in some specimens, with loosely woven fascicles of axons emerging from one pole of the ganglia. No differences in the distribution of the acetylcholinesterase activity or in the pattern of the inbuilt intrinsic nervous apparatus were observed in the various groups of patients. All specimens were completely devoid of non-specific cholinesterase activity. It was concluded that (I) the human atrial myocardium is richly supplied with cholinergic intrinsic (post-ganglionic vagal) axons and (II) the acetylcholinesterase activity is not a major determinant of the parasympathetic abnormalities associated with cardiac diseases, especially with myocardial pump failure.", "PMID": 436127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3030", "title": "Hemodynamic adjustments in hypertensive patients developing circulatory congestion during beta-adrenergic blockade.", "content": "In the course of chronic treatment with a cardioselective beta-blocking agent (atenolol) 6 patients out of a series of 38 hypertensives developed signs of circulatory congestion. In spite of this, maximal exercise capacity was maintained. This resulted from hemodynamic readjustments at rest and exercise, where an increase in stroke volume played a major role.", "contents": "Hemodynamic adjustments in hypertensive patients developing circulatory congestion during beta-adrenergic blockade. In the course of chronic treatment with a cardioselective beta-blocking agent (atenolol) 6 patients out of a series of 38 hypertensives developed signs of circulatory congestion. In spite of this, maximal exercise capacity was maintained. This resulted from hemodynamic readjustments at rest and exercise, where an increase in stroke volume played a major role.", "PMID": 436128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3031", "title": "The portal vein as collateral in inferior vena cava obstruction.", "content": "In five patients with obstruction of the inferior vena cava, collateral flow to the portal vein was demonstrated. Although there are many reports on caval occlusion, only 21 cases with this collateral circulation pattern have been reported. The reasons for this are most likely technical: To demonstrate this circulation, a large volume of contrast medium must be used and, because of the low flow velocity in the numerous wide collaterals, delayed films are also necessary.", "contents": "The portal vein as collateral in inferior vena cava obstruction. In five patients with obstruction of the inferior vena cava, collateral flow to the portal vein was demonstrated. Although there are many reports on caval occlusion, only 21 cases with this collateral circulation pattern have been reported. The reasons for this are most likely technical: To demonstrate this circulation, a large volume of contrast medium must be used and, because of the low flow velocity in the numerous wide collaterals, delayed films are also necessary.", "PMID": 436129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3032", "title": "Heparinized catheters for long-term intraarterial infusion of 5-fluorouracil in liver metastases.", "content": "A heparinized catheter was used for the regional infusion of 5-fluorouracil in seven patients with liver metastases. The hepatic artery was catheterized from the left brachial artery. The period of treatment varied from one to 13 weeks. Pull-out angiograms, obtained after eight catheterizations, revealed complete occlusion of the brachial artery in five and partial occlusion in three, although no patient had ischemic symptoms in the hand. Thus, heparinization of the catheter did not prevent thrombosis during long-term infusion therapy.", "contents": "Heparinized catheters for long-term intraarterial infusion of 5-fluorouracil in liver metastases. A heparinized catheter was used for the regional infusion of 5-fluorouracil in seven patients with liver metastases. The hepatic artery was catheterized from the left brachial artery. The period of treatment varied from one to 13 weeks. Pull-out angiograms, obtained after eight catheterizations, revealed complete occlusion of the brachial artery in five and partial occlusion in three, although no patient had ischemic symptoms in the hand. Thus, heparinization of the catheter did not prevent thrombosis during long-term infusion therapy.", "PMID": 436130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3033", "title": "Predictive value of radionuclide methods in the diagnosis of unilateral renovascular hypertension.", "content": "The validity of noninvasive (iodine-131 iodohippurate renogram, iodine-131 ortho-iodohippurate clearance, indium-113m EDTA--technetium-99m DTPA sequential renal scan) and invasive (xenon-133 washout) radionuclide screening tests was evaluated in the diagnosis of 105 patients with unilateral renovascular hypertension (RVH) and in 45 patients with essential hypertension (EH). In RVH positive findings on the stenosed side were noted in 73% of renograms, 73% of o-iodohippurate-clearance tests (N = 22), 81% of sequential renal scans, and 90% of xenon-washout studies (N = 67). In a subgroup of 55 retrospectively selected patients with normal or improved blood pressure following renovascular surgery, the preoperative findings had been positive on the stenosed side in 78% of renograms, 75% of o-iodohippurate-clearance tests (n = 20), 85% of sequential renal scans, and 93% of xenon-washout studies (n = 23). The sequential renal scan appears to be a sufficiently reliable method in noninvasive screening for unilateral RVH, although invasive xenon-washout studies show a higher percentage of hemodynamic alterations in the stenosed kidney. o-iodohippurate clearance tests, and in particular xenon-washout studies, can reveal arteriosclerotic lesions in the contralateral, non-stenosed kidney, which may be of importance when the decision for renovascular surgery is pending.", "contents": "Predictive value of radionuclide methods in the diagnosis of unilateral renovascular hypertension. The validity of noninvasive (iodine-131 iodohippurate renogram, iodine-131 ortho-iodohippurate clearance, indium-113m EDTA--technetium-99m DTPA sequential renal scan) and invasive (xenon-133 washout) radionuclide screening tests was evaluated in the diagnosis of 105 patients with unilateral renovascular hypertension (RVH) and in 45 patients with essential hypertension (EH). In RVH positive findings on the stenosed side were noted in 73% of renograms, 73% of o-iodohippurate-clearance tests (N = 22), 81% of sequential renal scans, and 90% of xenon-washout studies (N = 67). In a subgroup of 55 retrospectively selected patients with normal or improved blood pressure following renovascular surgery, the preoperative findings had been positive on the stenosed side in 78% of renograms, 75% of o-iodohippurate-clearance tests (n = 20), 85% of sequential renal scans, and 93% of xenon-washout studies (n = 23). The sequential renal scan appears to be a sufficiently reliable method in noninvasive screening for unilateral RVH, although invasive xenon-washout studies show a higher percentage of hemodynamic alterations in the stenosed kidney. o-iodohippurate clearance tests, and in particular xenon-washout studies, can reveal arteriosclerotic lesions in the contralateral, non-stenosed kidney, which may be of importance when the decision for renovascular surgery is pending.", "PMID": 436131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3034", "title": "Metastatic renal cell carcinoma to the remaining kidney 14 years after nephrectomy: report of two cases.", "content": "In two patients with renal cell carcinoma, late metastases to the remaining kidney were found. The metastases were histologically identical to the primary tumor, and more than one nodule recurred in both cases. Advanced surgical techniques allowing removal of metastases from the sole kidney make diagnosis of these lesions clinically important.", "contents": "Metastatic renal cell carcinoma to the remaining kidney 14 years after nephrectomy: report of two cases. In two patients with renal cell carcinoma, late metastases to the remaining kidney were found. The metastases were histologically identical to the primary tumor, and more than one nodule recurred in both cases. Advanced surgical techniques allowing removal of metastases from the sole kidney make diagnosis of these lesions clinically important.", "PMID": 436132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3035", "title": "Angiographic appearance of leiomyomas of the small intestine: report of two cases.", "content": "Benign and malignant smooth muscle tumors of the small intestine have each been considered as displaying distinct angiographic characteristics. However, as two cases illustrate, the angiographic features of benign and malignant smooth muscle tumors overlpa, and radiographic differentiation of these tumors is not feasible. In most cases angiography can distinguish smooth muscle tumors from other vascular lesions.", "contents": "Angiographic appearance of leiomyomas of the small intestine: report of two cases. Benign and malignant smooth muscle tumors of the small intestine have each been considered as displaying distinct angiographic characteristics. However, as two cases illustrate, the angiographic features of benign and malignant smooth muscle tumors overlpa, and radiographic differentiation of these tumors is not feasible. In most cases angiography can distinguish smooth muscle tumors from other vascular lesions.", "PMID": 436133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3036", "title": "Pitfalls in the plain film evaluation of the thoracic aorta: the mimicry of aneurysms and adjacent masses and the value of aortography. Part I. Transverse aortic arch.", "content": "In five instances, transverse aortic arch aneurysms were found that had initially, clinically and radiographically, mimicked thoracic neoplasms. Transverse aortic arch aneurysms display a wide spectrum of presentation: they may be asymptomatic, or they may cause symptoms secondary to esophageal, bronchial, vascular, or neural compression within the mediastinum and so mimic neoplasms. Conventional radiography in four projections and tomography are important components of the diagnostic evaluation of middle mediastinal masses. However, because plain film analysis is unable confidently to distinguish selected uncalcified aortic arch aneurysms from neoplasms, thoracic aortography is essential to the diagnosis.", "contents": "Pitfalls in the plain film evaluation of the thoracic aorta: the mimicry of aneurysms and adjacent masses and the value of aortography. Part I. Transverse aortic arch. In five instances, transverse aortic arch aneurysms were found that had initially, clinically and radiographically, mimicked thoracic neoplasms. Transverse aortic arch aneurysms display a wide spectrum of presentation: they may be asymptomatic, or they may cause symptoms secondary to esophageal, bronchial, vascular, or neural compression within the mediastinum and so mimic neoplasms. Conventional radiography in four projections and tomography are important components of the diagnostic evaluation of middle mediastinal masses. However, because plain film analysis is unable confidently to distinguish selected uncalcified aortic arch aneurysms from neoplasms, thoracic aortography is essential to the diagnosis.", "PMID": 436134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3037", "title": "Pitfalls in the plain film evaluation of the thoracic aorta: the mimicry of aneurysms and adjacent masses and the value of aortography. Part II. Descending thoracic aorta.", "content": "Distinguishing posterior mediastinal and pulmonary masses from aneurysms and tortuosity of the descending thoracic aorta may be difficult, as five such cases illustrate. Both the neoplasms and the aortic aneurysms or tortuosity can compress the same vital mediastinal structures; thus, they may give rise to the same symptoms. Because the plain film findings may also be similar, aortography is essential to their diagnosis.", "contents": "Pitfalls in the plain film evaluation of the thoracic aorta: the mimicry of aneurysms and adjacent masses and the value of aortography. Part II. Descending thoracic aorta. Distinguishing posterior mediastinal and pulmonary masses from aneurysms and tortuosity of the descending thoracic aorta may be difficult, as five such cases illustrate. Both the neoplasms and the aortic aneurysms or tortuosity can compress the same vital mediastinal structures; thus, they may give rise to the same symptoms. Because the plain film findings may also be similar, aortography is essential to their diagnosis.", "PMID": 436135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3038", "title": "The ascending aorta in aortic stenosis.", "content": "Dilatation of the ascending aorta, a frequently reported sign of aortic stenosis, was assessed in 47 patients for whom aortic angiograms has been recorded. Twenty-eight of the patients had rheumatic valvar disease and 19 had congenital aortic stenosis. A simple ratio between the maximal width of the mid-ascending aorta and the width of the aortic root was calculated. Patients with congenital aortic stenosis had significantly greater supravalvar aortic dilatation than did those with rheumatic aortic valve involvement. There was no correlation between the pressure difference across the aortic valve and degree of dilatation of the ascending aorta.", "contents": "The ascending aorta in aortic stenosis. Dilatation of the ascending aorta, a frequently reported sign of aortic stenosis, was assessed in 47 patients for whom aortic angiograms has been recorded. Twenty-eight of the patients had rheumatic valvar disease and 19 had congenital aortic stenosis. A simple ratio between the maximal width of the mid-ascending aorta and the width of the aortic root was calculated. Patients with congenital aortic stenosis had significantly greater supravalvar aortic dilatation than did those with rheumatic aortic valve involvement. There was no correlation between the pressure difference across the aortic valve and degree of dilatation of the ascending aorta.", "PMID": 436136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3039", "title": "Complications of coronary arteriography: a follow-up report.", "content": "A nationwide survey of complications due to coronary arteriography during 1973--74 yielded responses from 176 hospitals (89,079 coronary arteriograms). The overall mortality rate was 0.14% (brachial, 0.12%; femoral, 0.16%). In the brachial group, the mortality rate was three times as high for non-heparinized as for heparinized patients. In institutions performing fewer than 100 examinations per year, the combined incidence of death, myocardial infarction, and cerebral embolism was five times higher than in institutions performing more than 400 examinations per year. Left main coronary artery or three-vessel disease was present in most patients who died of the procedure. Compared to a previous survey of 1970--71, there was a profound decrease in significant complications (including death, myocardial infarction, and cerebral embolism) and entry site complications such as thrombosis. A reduction in mortality with the femoral technique since 1971 was not accounted for by heparinization and may reflect increasing experience with the method and shorter angiographic times.", "contents": "Complications of coronary arteriography: a follow-up report. A nationwide survey of complications due to coronary arteriography during 1973--74 yielded responses from 176 hospitals (89,079 coronary arteriograms). The overall mortality rate was 0.14% (brachial, 0.12%; femoral, 0.16%). In the brachial group, the mortality rate was three times as high for non-heparinized as for heparinized patients. In institutions performing fewer than 100 examinations per year, the combined incidence of death, myocardial infarction, and cerebral embolism was five times higher than in institutions performing more than 400 examinations per year. Left main coronary artery or three-vessel disease was present in most patients who died of the procedure. Compared to a previous survey of 1970--71, there was a profound decrease in significant complications (including death, myocardial infarction, and cerebral embolism) and entry site complications such as thrombosis. A reduction in mortality with the femoral technique since 1971 was not accounted for by heparinization and may reflect increasing experience with the method and shorter angiographic times.", "PMID": 436137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3040", "title": "Electron microscopy of the indoleamine-accumulating neurons in the retina of the rabbit.", "content": "The recently discovered indoleamine-accumulating retinal neurons were studied electron microscopically after destruction of the dopaminergic retinal neurons and subsequent labeling with 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine. These observations confirm earlier fluorescence microscopical studies on the distribution of the indoleamine-accumulating neurons in the rabbit retina. Their perikarya are known to be located in the inner nuclear layer (INL) among the amacrine cell bodies. Their processes are found only in the inner plexiform layer (IPL), most of them in the innermost third part of that layer. The indoleamine-accumulating terminals are pre- and postsynaptic to bipolar neurons in the innermost sublayer of the IPL. Reciprocal synapses are probably the rule. The synaptic vesicles of indoleamine-accumulating synapses onto bipolar cells are arranged in \"globular\" clusters around a central electron dense, round body. A number of synapses formed by unlabeled amacrine neurons with postsynaptic indoleamine-accumulating elements were also detected. These synapses were mainly found in the outermost third of the IPL. Synaptic contacts between presynaptic indoleamine-accumulating neurons and postsynaptic unlabeled processes of amacrine cells are very rare.", "contents": "Electron microscopy of the indoleamine-accumulating neurons in the retina of the rabbit. The recently discovered indoleamine-accumulating retinal neurons were studied electron microscopically after destruction of the dopaminergic retinal neurons and subsequent labeling with 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine. These observations confirm earlier fluorescence microscopical studies on the distribution of the indoleamine-accumulating neurons in the rabbit retina. Their perikarya are known to be located in the inner nuclear layer (INL) among the amacrine cell bodies. Their processes are found only in the inner plexiform layer (IPL), most of them in the innermost third part of that layer. The indoleamine-accumulating terminals are pre- and postsynaptic to bipolar neurons in the innermost sublayer of the IPL. Reciprocal synapses are probably the rule. The synaptic vesicles of indoleamine-accumulating synapses onto bipolar cells are arranged in \"globular\" clusters around a central electron dense, round body. A number of synapses formed by unlabeled amacrine neurons with postsynaptic indoleamine-accumulating elements were also detected. These synapses were mainly found in the outermost third of the IPL. Synaptic contacts between presynaptic indoleamine-accumulating neurons and postsynaptic unlabeled processes of amacrine cells are very rare.", "PMID": 436145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3041", "title": "Electron microscopic study of the termination of the centrifugal fibers in the goldfish olfactory bulb.", "content": "The terminals of centrifugal fibers to the olfactory bulbs of goldfish were studied by electron microscopy after transection of the medial, lateral or entire olfactory tract. The centrifugal fibers originate in the telencephalic hemisphere, pass through both the medial and the lateral olfactory tract, and form synaptic contacts with dendrites in the granule cell layer.", "contents": "Electron microscopic study of the termination of the centrifugal fibers in the goldfish olfactory bulb. The terminals of centrifugal fibers to the olfactory bulbs of goldfish were studied by electron microscopy after transection of the medial, lateral or entire olfactory tract. The centrifugal fibers originate in the telencephalic hemisphere, pass through both the medial and the lateral olfactory tract, and form synaptic contacts with dendrites in the granule cell layer.", "PMID": 436146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3042", "title": "Pinocytosis and locomotion of amoebae: XII. Dynamics and motive force generation during induced pinocytosis in A. proteus.", "content": "The mechanism of induced pinocytosis was investigated in Amoeba proteus by light and electron microscopy. The application of nine different inducing substances revealed that pinocytotic channel formation, elongation, vesiculation, shortening and disappearance are the result of the successive or simultaneous action of both traction and pressure forces, which are produced by the contractile activity of a plasma membrane-associated layer of filaments ranging from a few hundred nm to several micrometer in thickness. The initial phase of channel formation is caused by traction forces according to the membrane flow concept, whereas channel elongation and vesiculation mainly result from pressure forces in conjunction with the extrusion of small hyaline pseudopodia. Shortening and disappearance of the pinocytotic channels are brought about by local contractions of the cortical filament layer in the basal region of the hyaline pseudopodia. Experiments using latex beads as marker particles together with inducing substances show that a rapid membrane turnover duirng pinocytosis can be excluded, and that the plasma membrane slides as an entire structure over the underlying cytoplasm.", "contents": "Pinocytosis and locomotion of amoebae: XII. Dynamics and motive force generation during induced pinocytosis in A. proteus. The mechanism of induced pinocytosis was investigated in Amoeba proteus by light and electron microscopy. The application of nine different inducing substances revealed that pinocytotic channel formation, elongation, vesiculation, shortening and disappearance are the result of the successive or simultaneous action of both traction and pressure forces, which are produced by the contractile activity of a plasma membrane-associated layer of filaments ranging from a few hundred nm to several micrometer in thickness. The initial phase of channel formation is caused by traction forces according to the membrane flow concept, whereas channel elongation and vesiculation mainly result from pressure forces in conjunction with the extrusion of small hyaline pseudopodia. Shortening and disappearance of the pinocytotic channels are brought about by local contractions of the cortical filament layer in the basal region of the hyaline pseudopodia. Experiments using latex beads as marker particles together with inducing substances show that a rapid membrane turnover duirng pinocytosis can be excluded, and that the plasma membrane slides as an entire structure over the underlying cytoplasm.", "PMID": 436147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3043", "title": "Ultrastructure and cytochemistry of the gastric mucosa of a reptile, Tiliqua scincoides.", "content": "The gastric mucosa of a reptile, the lizard Tiliqua scincoides, has been examined by light and electron microscopy. The gastric pits lead into glands that are extensively coiled in the proximal stomach but become progressively shorter and straighter in the distal stomach. The following epithelial cell types have been identified: (i) Surface mucous cells (SMC) line the entire lumenal surface as well as the pits. They contain mucus granules that stain with periodic acid-Schiff and, like the granules of mammalian SMC, commonly contain an electron dense core that appears not to be mucus (periodic acid-chromic acid-silver methenamine nonreactive). (ii) Glandular mucous cells are present in glands throughout the mucosa. They are probably homologous with the mucous neck and antral gland cells of mammals; like SMC their mucus granules contain nonglycoprotein cores. (iii) Oxynticopeptic cells (OPC) are the predominant cell type in the proximal gland but become infrequent distally. Their fine structure resembles that of OPC in other nonmammalian vertebrates, with features like those of both parietal cells and zymogen cells of mammals. (iv) Endocrine cells of three different types have been identified. Two of these show close similarities to the EC and ECL cells of mammals.", "contents": "Ultrastructure and cytochemistry of the gastric mucosa of a reptile, Tiliqua scincoides. The gastric mucosa of a reptile, the lizard Tiliqua scincoides, has been examined by light and electron microscopy. The gastric pits lead into glands that are extensively coiled in the proximal stomach but become progressively shorter and straighter in the distal stomach. The following epithelial cell types have been identified: (i) Surface mucous cells (SMC) line the entire lumenal surface as well as the pits. They contain mucus granules that stain with periodic acid-Schiff and, like the granules of mammalian SMC, commonly contain an electron dense core that appears not to be mucus (periodic acid-chromic acid-silver methenamine nonreactive). (ii) Glandular mucous cells are present in glands throughout the mucosa. They are probably homologous with the mucous neck and antral gland cells of mammals; like SMC their mucus granules contain nonglycoprotein cores. (iii) Oxynticopeptic cells (OPC) are the predominant cell type in the proximal gland but become infrequent distally. Their fine structure resembles that of OPC in other nonmammalian vertebrates, with features like those of both parietal cells and zymogen cells of mammals. (iv) Endocrine cells of three different types have been identified. Two of these show close similarities to the EC and ECL cells of mammals.", "PMID": 436148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3044", "title": "Maturation of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system. I. Localization of neurophysin, oxytocin and vasopressin in the hypothalamus and neural lobe of the developing rat brain.", "content": "Sections of the hypothalamus, median eminence and pituitary from fetal and neonatal rats were examined with the immunoperoxidase staining technique and light microscopy. Purified antisera raised against vasopressin and oxytocin, and antisera cross-reactive with rat neurophysin were used to localize these antigens in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system (HNS). Neurophysin was detected throughout the HNS of the 18-day fetal rat. Vasopressin was present in the hypothalamus and pituitary of the 19-day fetus, and in the median eminence of the 4-day neonate. Oxytocin was not detected in the pituitary until 1--2 days after birth, in the hypothalamus after 4 days, and in the median eminence after 8 days. During the first days after birth the supraoptic nucleus was more mature than the paraventricular nucleus. The HNS did not approach maturity until at least 7 days after birth. The relative maturity of the supraoptic nucleus compared with the paraventricular nucleus, and the detection of vasopressin before oxytocin are evidence for the one-neuron-one-hormone theory. The data do not exclude the possibility that the fetal hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system, and perhaps the fetal hormone, vasotocin, affect the initiation and course of parturition.", "contents": "Maturation of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system. I. Localization of neurophysin, oxytocin and vasopressin in the hypothalamus and neural lobe of the developing rat brain. Sections of the hypothalamus, median eminence and pituitary from fetal and neonatal rats were examined with the immunoperoxidase staining technique and light microscopy. Purified antisera raised against vasopressin and oxytocin, and antisera cross-reactive with rat neurophysin were used to localize these antigens in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system (HNS). Neurophysin was detected throughout the HNS of the 18-day fetal rat. Vasopressin was present in the hypothalamus and pituitary of the 19-day fetus, and in the median eminence of the 4-day neonate. Oxytocin was not detected in the pituitary until 1--2 days after birth, in the hypothalamus after 4 days, and in the median eminence after 8 days. During the first days after birth the supraoptic nucleus was more mature than the paraventricular nucleus. The HNS did not approach maturity until at least 7 days after birth. The relative maturity of the supraoptic nucleus compared with the paraventricular nucleus, and the detection of vasopressin before oxytocin are evidence for the one-neuron-one-hormone theory. The data do not exclude the possibility that the fetal hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system, and perhaps the fetal hormone, vasotocin, affect the initiation and course of parturition.", "PMID": 436149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3045", "title": "[The significance of enzyme cytochemical methods in the classification of hemoblastoses].", "content": "Selected cytoenzymological methods together with the PAS reaction often permit more precise identifying normal and tumorous blood cells and thus determining the type of hemoblastosis. The cells of the myeloid neutrophil series are characterized by the activity of peroxidase and naphtol-AS-D-chloracetate esterase, monocytic elements by the activity of a nonspecific esterase sensitive to fluoride, the tumorous cells of the red series by the PAS positivity and paranuclear positivity of acid phosphatase. Some tumorous lymphoblasts have gross PAS--positive granules in the plasma, others, probably of T-origin, paranuclear focal positivity of acid phosphatase. Hematological classification of acute hemoblastoses does not exactly correspond to L\u00f6ffler's cytochemical classification; of diagnostic and therapeutically considerable importance is the synthetic evaluation of the hematological finding and of interpretive possibilities of individual cytochemical methods.", "contents": "[The significance of enzyme cytochemical methods in the classification of hemoblastoses]. Selected cytoenzymological methods together with the PAS reaction often permit more precise identifying normal and tumorous blood cells and thus determining the type of hemoblastosis. The cells of the myeloid neutrophil series are characterized by the activity of peroxidase and naphtol-AS-D-chloracetate esterase, monocytic elements by the activity of a nonspecific esterase sensitive to fluoride, the tumorous cells of the red series by the PAS positivity and paranuclear positivity of acid phosphatase. Some tumorous lymphoblasts have gross PAS--positive granules in the plasma, others, probably of T-origin, paranuclear focal positivity of acid phosphatase. Hematological classification of acute hemoblastoses does not exactly correspond to L\u00f6ffler's cytochemical classification; of diagnostic and therapeutically considerable importance is the synthetic evaluation of the hematological finding and of interpretive possibilities of individual cytochemical methods.", "PMID": 436160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3046", "title": "[Ultrastructural cytopathology of plasmocytic myeloma with respect to the so-called maturation nucleoplasmic asynchrony].", "content": "On the basis of electronmicroscopic study of 50 cases of plasmocytic myeloma, in part of the cases the maturational nucleoplasmic asynchrony of myelomatous plasmocytes was observed ultrastructurally. The authors discuss its importance for bioptic diagnosos.", "contents": "[Ultrastructural cytopathology of plasmocytic myeloma with respect to the so-called maturation nucleoplasmic asynchrony]. On the basis of electronmicroscopic study of 50 cases of plasmocytic myeloma, in part of the cases the maturational nucleoplasmic asynchrony of myelomatous plasmocytes was observed ultrastructurally. The authors discuss its importance for bioptic diagnosos.", "PMID": 436161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3047", "title": "[The advantage of combined histological and cytological examination for the early diagnosis of lung tumors].", "content": "The authors present an analysis of the results of pre- and postoperative cytohistological examination in patients with suspect bronchogenic carcinoma. The number of falsely cytologically positive findings in a group of 446 patients with non-tumorous affection did not exceeed 2%. In confrontation of 1516 cytological and histological perioperative results the ascertained number of incorrect cytological conclusions was not higher too.", "contents": "[The advantage of combined histological and cytological examination for the early diagnosis of lung tumors]. The authors present an analysis of the results of pre- and postoperative cytohistological examination in patients with suspect bronchogenic carcinoma. The number of falsely cytologically positive findings in a group of 446 patients with non-tumorous affection did not exceeed 2%. In confrontation of 1516 cytological and histological perioperative results the ascertained number of incorrect cytological conclusions was not higher too.", "PMID": 436162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3048", "title": "[Pleural and peritoneal cytology].", "content": "3857 secretions of the serous cavities were examined in 1964 to 1976. A positive finding from a first examination occurred in 58.8%, after repeated examination in 72.1%. Falsely negative findings formed 6.2%. The diagnostic certainty of examination was 93.4%. 93.5% of all findings were controlled by a bioptic or a necroptic finding and by a clinical finding and its development. In 93.0% histological sections, too, besides spreads, could be made from the sediment. A positive finding in both techniques occurred in 59.0%, in 4.5% the spread was negative and the histological section from the sediment positive; in 8.6% it was the other way round. In 13.1% the diagnosis was thus possible by the combination of spreads with a cytohistological technique. Determination of the primary localization of a malignant tumor was possible in 2/5 of positive cases independently; in the further 1/5 it was possible on the basis of cooperation with a clinician.", "contents": "[Pleural and peritoneal cytology]. 3857 secretions of the serous cavities were examined in 1964 to 1976. A positive finding from a first examination occurred in 58.8%, after repeated examination in 72.1%. Falsely negative findings formed 6.2%. The diagnostic certainty of examination was 93.4%. 93.5% of all findings were controlled by a bioptic or a necroptic finding and by a clinical finding and its development. In 93.0% histological sections, too, besides spreads, could be made from the sediment. A positive finding in both techniques occurred in 59.0%, in 4.5% the spread was negative and the histological section from the sediment positive; in 8.6% it was the other way round. In 13.1% the diagnosis was thus possible by the combination of spreads with a cytohistological technique. Determination of the primary localization of a malignant tumor was possible in 2/5 of positive cases independently; in the further 1/5 it was possible on the basis of cooperation with a clinician.", "PMID": 436163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3049", "title": "[Clear-cell sarcoma with melanin].", "content": "Melanin was proved in the tumorous cells in a 62-year-old man who had a malignant tumor with the structure of clear cell sarcoma of tendons on the sole of the foot. Electronoptic examination confirmed the presence of numerous melanosomas and their complexes. Although the tumor may be regarded as a special variant of melanoblastoma from clear cells (7), the authors give reasons admitting an independent position within the clear cell sarcoma of tendons.", "contents": "[Clear-cell sarcoma with melanin]. Melanin was proved in the tumorous cells in a 62-year-old man who had a malignant tumor with the structure of clear cell sarcoma of tendons on the sole of the foot. Electronoptic examination confirmed the presence of numerous melanosomas and their complexes. Although the tumor may be regarded as a special variant of melanoblastoma from clear cells (7), the authors give reasons admitting an independent position within the clear cell sarcoma of tendons.", "PMID": 436164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3050", "title": "[Histochemical diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease].", "content": "Examination of 65 rectal biopsies and 10 resections by the histochemical detection of cholinesterase leads to the following conclusions: 1. Density of the nerve fibers in lamina propria is irregular and the examination of the cholinesterase activity may lead to falsely negative results in aganglionosis. 2. Constant is, in aganglionosis, the finding of markedly increased reaction in the nerve fibers of the muscularis mucosae and submucosa. 3. Biopsy must, therefore, include even muscularis mucosae and the choice of the instrument for biopsy removal must meet this requirement.", "contents": "[Histochemical diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease]. Examination of 65 rectal biopsies and 10 resections by the histochemical detection of cholinesterase leads to the following conclusions: 1. Density of the nerve fibers in lamina propria is irregular and the examination of the cholinesterase activity may lead to falsely negative results in aganglionosis. 2. Constant is, in aganglionosis, the finding of markedly increased reaction in the nerve fibers of the muscularis mucosae and submucosa. 3. Biopsy must, therefore, include even muscularis mucosae and the choice of the instrument for biopsy removal must meet this requirement.", "PMID": 436165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3051", "title": "[Pulmonary hypertension and fetal circulation after severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors present four new born with severe anoxemia after congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair. In three babies' hypoxemia was present from birth. Cardiac catheterization revealed pulmonary hypertension, resulting in a state of fetal circulation. Tolazoline produced an improvement in oxygenation, but became secondary ineffective. In one case ductus arteriosus was occluded during cardiac catheterization, after which immediate improvement in peripheral oxygenation was seen. Ligation of the patient ductus arteriosus was proposed in that case. In the fourth infant, hypoxemia developed secondary and was successfully treated with tolazoline. It is suggested that ligation of the patient ductus arteriosus and administration of pulmonary vasodilatators are both effective in improving oxygenation, in patients who may die an anoxic death after repair of a severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia.", "contents": "[Pulmonary hypertension and fetal circulation after severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (author's transl)]. The authors present four new born with severe anoxemia after congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair. In three babies' hypoxemia was present from birth. Cardiac catheterization revealed pulmonary hypertension, resulting in a state of fetal circulation. Tolazoline produced an improvement in oxygenation, but became secondary ineffective. In one case ductus arteriosus was occluded during cardiac catheterization, after which immediate improvement in peripheral oxygenation was seen. Ligation of the patient ductus arteriosus was proposed in that case. In the fourth infant, hypoxemia developed secondary and was successfully treated with tolazoline. It is suggested that ligation of the patient ductus arteriosus and administration of pulmonary vasodilatators are both effective in improving oxygenation, in patients who may die an anoxic death after repair of a severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia.", "PMID": 436190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3052", "title": "[Meconial peritonitis. Recordings about six observations. Diagnostic and prognostic value of calcifications. Therapeutic given off (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report six cases of meconium peritonitis with intra-abdominal calcifications; surgical intervention was successful in four. In five patients, fibrocystic desease of pancreas was eliminated. Presenting this report, it is their intention to underline the good prognosis of calcifications which generally eliminate the meconium ileus.", "contents": "[Meconial peritonitis. Recordings about six observations. Diagnostic and prognostic value of calcifications. Therapeutic given off (author's transl)]. The authors report six cases of meconium peritonitis with intra-abdominal calcifications; surgical intervention was successful in four. In five patients, fibrocystic desease of pancreas was eliminated. Presenting this report, it is their intention to underline the good prognosis of calcifications which generally eliminate the meconium ileus.", "PMID": 436191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3053", "title": "[Acute acalculous gallbladder disease in children: acute cholecystitis or acute gallbladder distension (author's transl)].", "content": "Acute acalculous gallbladder disease is rarely encountered in children. Two observations permit a review of its clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects. Acute acalculous cholecystitis and acute gallbladder distension present clinically in a similar fashion, although, in the latter the fever is usually absent and there is a history of episodic pain. The pathogenesis of these affections remains uncertain but generalized infection and anomalies of the cystic duct seem to be favoring circumstances. The diagnosis, rarely initially made, could be confirmed by oral cholecystography showing an non visualized gallbladder. Surgery is necessary in order to confirme or refute the diagnosis. The therapeutic approach can be either the simple drainage of the gallbladder or a cholecystectomy. Due to the risk of allowing a cervicocystic obstacle persist, it seems that a cholecystectomy, which is well tolerated by the child, would be preferable.", "contents": "[Acute acalculous gallbladder disease in children: acute cholecystitis or acute gallbladder distension (author's transl)]. Acute acalculous gallbladder disease is rarely encountered in children. Two observations permit a review of its clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects. Acute acalculous cholecystitis and acute gallbladder distension present clinically in a similar fashion, although, in the latter the fever is usually absent and there is a history of episodic pain. The pathogenesis of these affections remains uncertain but generalized infection and anomalies of the cystic duct seem to be favoring circumstances. The diagnosis, rarely initially made, could be confirmed by oral cholecystography showing an non visualized gallbladder. Surgery is necessary in order to confirme or refute the diagnosis. The therapeutic approach can be either the simple drainage of the gallbladder or a cholecystectomy. Due to the risk of allowing a cervicocystic obstacle persist, it seems that a cholecystectomy, which is well tolerated by the child, would be preferable.", "PMID": 436192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3054", "title": "[Bronchial atresia of a segment (author's transl)].", "content": "Bronchial atresia of a segment in the lung is a very uncommon cause of pulmonary disorder. The diagnosis is very easy. The plain film is sufficient. Distension of a segment with air trapping during the inspiratory phase with one or more tumor in the hile due to the impaction of mucous secretion of the bronchi above the obstruction. Frequently asymptomatic the revelation is accidental during the evolution of a communal upper respiratory tract infection. The treatment is surgical.", "contents": "[Bronchial atresia of a segment (author's transl)]. Bronchial atresia of a segment in the lung is a very uncommon cause of pulmonary disorder. The diagnosis is very easy. The plain film is sufficient. Distension of a segment with air trapping during the inspiratory phase with one or more tumor in the hile due to the impaction of mucous secretion of the bronchi above the obstruction. Frequently asymptomatic the revelation is accidental during the evolution of a communal upper respiratory tract infection. The treatment is surgical.", "PMID": 436193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3055", "title": "[A case gallbladder torsion in a two years child is presented (author's transl)].", "content": "For this exceptionnel case seeing the young age of the child, the litterature is reviewed. This disease is seldom diagnosed before the operation but in case of acute abdominal syndrome with palpable tumor in the right subribs area, the diagnosis of gallbladder torsion can be considered. The pronostic is excellent because the quite easy gallbladder oblation brings a quick recovery without after effects.", "contents": "[A case gallbladder torsion in a two years child is presented (author's transl)]. For this exceptionnel case seeing the young age of the child, the litterature is reviewed. This disease is seldom diagnosed before the operation but in case of acute abdominal syndrome with palpable tumor in the right subribs area, the diagnosis of gallbladder torsion can be considered. The pronostic is excellent because the quite easy gallbladder oblation brings a quick recovery without after effects.", "PMID": 436195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3056", "title": "[Reversed gastric tube oesophagoplasty in children (author's transl)].", "content": "Over the last two years the authors performed 6 oesophagoplasties with reversed gastric tube, no splenectomy, retrosternal placement of the gastric tube and cervical termino-terminal anstomosis within a single operating interval. Only one death occurred, independent of the oesophagoplasy technique, as well as two minor complications favourably solved spontaneuosly (cervical anastomosis fistule). The operation was perfectly gone through, post-operation consequences were surprisingly simple and the distant result, in all five cases of survival,--clinically excellent, both oesophagoscopically and radiologically; the children went back to an absolutely normal feeding programme. Though short, this series joins the other papers published of late and indicates oesophagoplasty with reversed gastric tube as a valuable method in reconstruction children's oesophagi.", "contents": "[Reversed gastric tube oesophagoplasty in children (author's transl)]. Over the last two years the authors performed 6 oesophagoplasties with reversed gastric tube, no splenectomy, retrosternal placement of the gastric tube and cervical termino-terminal anstomosis within a single operating interval. Only one death occurred, independent of the oesophagoplasy technique, as well as two minor complications favourably solved spontaneuosly (cervical anastomosis fistule). The operation was perfectly gone through, post-operation consequences were surprisingly simple and the distant result, in all five cases of survival,--clinically excellent, both oesophagoscopically and radiologically; the children went back to an absolutely normal feeding programme. Though short, this series joins the other papers published of late and indicates oesophagoplasty with reversed gastric tube as a valuable method in reconstruction children's oesophagi.", "PMID": 436196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3057", "title": "[Efficiency and limitations of Pickrell's anomyoplasty in treatment of postoperative incontinence in children with anorectal malformations (author's transl)].", "content": "Eight children with high or intermediate anorectal malformations and fecal incontinence after primary repair were operated according the Pickrell technique. In 3 patients, the result of the Pickrell plasty was clinically not sufficient and the opposite gracilis muscle was used in addition at a second operative session. The 8 children were studied clinically, radiologically, by electromyography and manometry. The results are presented in detail. All 8 patients had a good passive continence at rest, but an active physiological continence could not be achieved. This seems to be due mainly to the absence of the internal anal sphincter, but partially also to the incomplete or even lacking adaptation of the pulled through bowel, which showed a relative hyperactivity and did not function as a neorectal reservoir. Some therapeutic measures to overcome the problems due to the fact that we deal at the same time with smooth and with striated muscles are discussed in the limelight of the present study.", "contents": "[Efficiency and limitations of Pickrell's anomyoplasty in treatment of postoperative incontinence in children with anorectal malformations (author's transl)]. Eight children with high or intermediate anorectal malformations and fecal incontinence after primary repair were operated according the Pickrell technique. In 3 patients, the result of the Pickrell plasty was clinically not sufficient and the opposite gracilis muscle was used in addition at a second operative session. The 8 children were studied clinically, radiologically, by electromyography and manometry. The results are presented in detail. All 8 patients had a good passive continence at rest, but an active physiological continence could not be achieved. This seems to be due mainly to the absence of the internal anal sphincter, but partially also to the incomplete or even lacking adaptation of the pulled through bowel, which showed a relative hyperactivity and did not function as a neorectal reservoir. Some therapeutic measures to overcome the problems due to the fact that we deal at the same time with smooth and with striated muscles are discussed in the limelight of the present study.", "PMID": 436198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3058", "title": "[Sphincter-oriented gluteal myoplasty, in the treatment of faecal incontinence in sacral agenesis and surgically treated anorectal malformations (author's transl)].", "content": "The treatment of anal incontinence associated with anorectal malformations and sacral agenesis uses, in general, the levator ani. The role of the latter muscle can, however, only be passive, since it provides only suspension and angulation of the anorectal junction. Active control of continence may be obtained by means of an operation which encircles the rectum with a contractile muscular ring made up of the gluteus maximus muscles. It reverses the anorectal angulation and ensures effectice daytime continence by voluntary contraction. This control may be lost during sleep but it is felt that rehabilitation exercises can be successful. The technique is described here, detailing the advantages which may be hoped for and the present results.", "contents": "[Sphincter-oriented gluteal myoplasty, in the treatment of faecal incontinence in sacral agenesis and surgically treated anorectal malformations (author's transl)]. The treatment of anal incontinence associated with anorectal malformations and sacral agenesis uses, in general, the levator ani. The role of the latter muscle can, however, only be passive, since it provides only suspension and angulation of the anorectal junction. Active control of continence may be obtained by means of an operation which encircles the rectum with a contractile muscular ring made up of the gluteus maximus muscles. It reverses the anorectal angulation and ensures effectice daytime continence by voluntary contraction. This control may be lost during sleep but it is felt that rehabilitation exercises can be successful. The technique is described here, detailing the advantages which may be hoped for and the present results.", "PMID": 436199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3059", "title": "Immediate effects of hydralazine-isosorbide dinitrate combination on exercise capacity and exercise hemodynamics in patients with left ventricular failure.", "content": "Resting hemodynamics improve during vasodilator administration in patients, with congestive heart failure (CHF), but the effects of these agents on exercise is unknown. Twenty-two patients with class II or III CHF performed bicycle exercise to symptomatic maximum before and 90 minutes after random double-blind administration of oral hydralazine (100 mg) and isosorbide dinitrate (40 mg) (11 patients, group 1) or placebo (11 patients, group 2). Exercise duration was unchanged after treatment in either group. Maximal oxygen consumption changed insignificantly in both groups, from 12.6 +/- 1.2 (SEM) to 13.6 +/- 1.6 ml/kg/min in group 1, and from 11.7 +/- 1.4 to 13.4 +/- 1.7 ml/kg/min in group 2. Maximal cardiac index was unchanged in both group 1 (4.00 +/- 0.33 to 4.41 +/- 0.29 l/min/m2) and group 2 (4.11 +/- 0.43 to 4.14 +/- 0.42 l/min/m2). Systemic vascular resistance at peak exercise was also unchanged in both group 1 (14.1 +/- 1.6 to 11.8 +/- 1.0 units) and group 2 (14.7 +/- 1.6 to 13.5 +/- 1.6 units). at submaximal exercise (300 kilopond-meters/min), however, cardiac index after treatment increased in group 1 (0.51 +/- 0.18 l/min/m2, p less than 0.05) and systemic vascular resistance decreased (-3.3 +/- 1.3 units, p less than 0.05), but were unchanged in group 2. Thus, although vasodilators do not improve maximal exercise capacity acutely, they can improve hemodynamics at lower work loads which may, therefore, be better tolerated in patients with CHF.", "contents": "Immediate effects of hydralazine-isosorbide dinitrate combination on exercise capacity and exercise hemodynamics in patients with left ventricular failure. Resting hemodynamics improve during vasodilator administration in patients, with congestive heart failure (CHF), but the effects of these agents on exercise is unknown. Twenty-two patients with class II or III CHF performed bicycle exercise to symptomatic maximum before and 90 minutes after random double-blind administration of oral hydralazine (100 mg) and isosorbide dinitrate (40 mg) (11 patients, group 1) or placebo (11 patients, group 2). Exercise duration was unchanged after treatment in either group. Maximal oxygen consumption changed insignificantly in both groups, from 12.6 +/- 1.2 (SEM) to 13.6 +/- 1.6 ml/kg/min in group 1, and from 11.7 +/- 1.4 to 13.4 +/- 1.7 ml/kg/min in group 2. Maximal cardiac index was unchanged in both group 1 (4.00 +/- 0.33 to 4.41 +/- 0.29 l/min/m2) and group 2 (4.11 +/- 0.43 to 4.14 +/- 0.42 l/min/m2). Systemic vascular resistance at peak exercise was also unchanged in both group 1 (14.1 +/- 1.6 to 11.8 +/- 1.0 units) and group 2 (14.7 +/- 1.6 to 13.5 +/- 1.6 units). at submaximal exercise (300 kilopond-meters/min), however, cardiac index after treatment increased in group 1 (0.51 +/- 0.18 l/min/m2, p less than 0.05) and systemic vascular resistance decreased (-3.3 +/- 1.3 units, p less than 0.05), but were unchanged in group 2. Thus, although vasodilators do not improve maximal exercise capacity acutely, they can improve hemodynamics at lower work loads which may, therefore, be better tolerated in patients with CHF.", "PMID": 436200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3060", "title": "Amrinone: a new non-glycosidic, non-adrenergic cardiotonic agent effective in the treatment of intractable myocardial failure in man.", "content": "Chronic congestive heart failure not controlled by conventional therapy was treated with intravenous amrinone, a new non-glycosidic, non-catecholamine cardiotonic agent. Eight patients with New York Heart Association functional class III-IV symptoms were hemodynamically monitored. At peak effect, cardiac index (CI) increased from 1.84 +/- 0.32 to 2.74 +/- 0.44 l/min/m2 (mean +/- SD) (p less than 0.001) and left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) decreased from 25.8 +/- 6.2 to 19.5 +/- 6.8 mm Hg (p less than 0.05), while heart rate and mean aortic blood pressure did not change significantly. Mean endocardial circumferential fiber shortening (mean Vcf), determined by echocardiography, increased from 0.61 +/- 0.27 to 0.89 +/- 0.34 cir/sec (p less than 0.05). The duration of action after bolus infusion varied from 60--90 minutes. During continuous infusion of amrinone, sustained increases in CI and reductions in LVFP, similar to those at the time of peak effect after bolus administration, were maintained for 180 minutes. These marked cardiotonic effects of amrinone in patients already taking digitalis for severe heart failure occurred without side effects of arrhythmias or altered arterial pressures. The fact that the drug is orally active makes amrinone a v:ry promising inotropic agent for the treatment of chronic heart failure in man.", "contents": "Amrinone: a new non-glycosidic, non-adrenergic cardiotonic agent effective in the treatment of intractable myocardial failure in man. Chronic congestive heart failure not controlled by conventional therapy was treated with intravenous amrinone, a new non-glycosidic, non-catecholamine cardiotonic agent. Eight patients with New York Heart Association functional class III-IV symptoms were hemodynamically monitored. At peak effect, cardiac index (CI) increased from 1.84 +/- 0.32 to 2.74 +/- 0.44 l/min/m2 (mean +/- SD) (p less than 0.001) and left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) decreased from 25.8 +/- 6.2 to 19.5 +/- 6.8 mm Hg (p less than 0.05), while heart rate and mean aortic blood pressure did not change significantly. Mean endocardial circumferential fiber shortening (mean Vcf), determined by echocardiography, increased from 0.61 +/- 0.27 to 0.89 +/- 0.34 cir/sec (p less than 0.05). The duration of action after bolus infusion varied from 60--90 minutes. During continuous infusion of amrinone, sustained increases in CI and reductions in LVFP, similar to those at the time of peak effect after bolus administration, were maintained for 180 minutes. These marked cardiotonic effects of amrinone in patients already taking digitalis for severe heart failure occurred without side effects of arrhythmias or altered arterial pressures. The fact that the drug is orally active makes amrinone a v:ry promising inotropic agent for the treatment of chronic heart failure in man.", "PMID": 436202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3061", "title": "Complications of coronary arteriography from the Collaborative Study of Coronary Artery Surgery (CASS).", "content": "Data were collected prospectively on 7553 consecutive patients undergoing coronary arteriography. The studies were performed at 13 clinics of the Collaborative Study of Coronary Artery Surgery (CASS) using brachial and femoral techniques. There were eight deaths 0--24 hours and seven deaths 24--48 hours after arteriography (2/1000). There were 15 non-fatal myocardial infarctions (MIs) 0--24 hours and four MIs 24--48 hours after arteriography (2.5/1000). Of 657 cases with left main stenosis greater than or equal to 50%, five died and three had MI. Left main disease increased risk of death by 6.8 times (p less than 0.001). Other factors increasing risk were unstable angina, congestive heart failure, multiple premature ventricular contractions, and hypertension. Of the 1187 patients studied from the brachial artery, six died (0.51%) and five had MIs (0.42%). In 6328 patients studied from the femoral artery, nine died (0.14%) and 14 had MIs (0.22%). The brachial artery technique increased the risk of death 3.6 times compared with the femoral approach (p less than 0.05). This result did not apply when analysis was restricted to laboratories with 80% or more brachial procedures. Risk was not altered by heparin. Thus, a prospective, multicenter analysis of complications reveals low risk of coronary arteriography but significant difference between two techniques.", "contents": "Complications of coronary arteriography from the Collaborative Study of Coronary Artery Surgery (CASS). Data were collected prospectively on 7553 consecutive patients undergoing coronary arteriography. The studies were performed at 13 clinics of the Collaborative Study of Coronary Artery Surgery (CASS) using brachial and femoral techniques. There were eight deaths 0--24 hours and seven deaths 24--48 hours after arteriography (2/1000). There were 15 non-fatal myocardial infarctions (MIs) 0--24 hours and four MIs 24--48 hours after arteriography (2.5/1000). Of 657 cases with left main stenosis greater than or equal to 50%, five died and three had MI. Left main disease increased risk of death by 6.8 times (p less than 0.001). Other factors increasing risk were unstable angina, congestive heart failure, multiple premature ventricular contractions, and hypertension. Of the 1187 patients studied from the brachial artery, six died (0.51%) and five had MIs (0.42%). In 6328 patients studied from the femoral artery, nine died (0.14%) and 14 had MIs (0.22%). The brachial artery technique increased the risk of death 3.6 times compared with the femoral approach (p less than 0.05). This result did not apply when analysis was restricted to laboratories with 80% or more brachial procedures. Risk was not altered by heparin. Thus, a prospective, multicenter analysis of complications reveals low risk of coronary arteriography but significant difference between two techniques.", "PMID": 436203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3062", "title": "The quality of resonance of the first heart sound after myocardial infarction: clinical significance.", "content": "Frequency analyses of the first heart sound (S1) were performed in 80 normal subjects and 80 postinfarction patients. A readily recognizable frequency pattern characterized by a quality of resonance greater than or equal to 2, as measured by the Q factor at 3 db down, was noted in 78 of the 80 apparently normal subjects. An aberrant pattern with a Q less than 2, often accompanied by a lowering of the frequency content, was found in 78 of 80 postinfarction patients. We propose that the quality of resonance of S1 is a measure of the degree to which the structural homogeneity of the left ventricle as a compliant contractile unit has been preserved after myocardial infarction.", "contents": "The quality of resonance of the first heart sound after myocardial infarction: clinical significance. Frequency analyses of the first heart sound (S1) were performed in 80 normal subjects and 80 postinfarction patients. A readily recognizable frequency pattern characterized by a quality of resonance greater than or equal to 2, as measured by the Q factor at 3 db down, was noted in 78 of the 80 apparently normal subjects. An aberrant pattern with a Q less than 2, often accompanied by a lowering of the frequency content, was found in 78 of 80 postinfarction patients. We propose that the quality of resonance of S1 is a measure of the degree to which the structural homogeneity of the left ventricle as a compliant contractile unit has been preserved after myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 436206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3063", "title": "Mechanism of propranolol withdrawal phenomena.", "content": "Nine patients on chronic treatment with propranolol for essential hypertension for 3 months or longer were studied after abrupt discontinuation of the drug. Each patient demonstrated transient supersensitivity to the chronotropic effects of isoproterenol, beginning 2--6 days (median 4 days) after propranolol withdrawal, lasting for 3--13 days (median 6 days), with the maximum sensitivity on day 6. A significantly lower dose of isoproterenol was necessary to increase heart rate 25 beats/min on day 6 (median dose 1.2 microgram, range 0.3--3.4 microgram) compared with after day 14, when sensitivity had stabilized (median dose 2.3 microgram, range 1.4--7.6 microgram). Six patients had transient symptoms (headache, chest pain, palpitations and sweating) after abrupt propranolol withdrawal, coinciding with supersensitivity to isoproterenol in five. Transient increases in plasma catecholamines and blood pressures and sustained increases in heart rate occurred during the period of isoproterenol supersensitivity in most patients, and may have contributed to symptoms noted. The delayed onset and potentially long duration of beta-adrenergic supersensitivity after abrupt propranolol withdrawal have important clinical implications.", "contents": "Mechanism of propranolol withdrawal phenomena. Nine patients on chronic treatment with propranolol for essential hypertension for 3 months or longer were studied after abrupt discontinuation of the drug. Each patient demonstrated transient supersensitivity to the chronotropic effects of isoproterenol, beginning 2--6 days (median 4 days) after propranolol withdrawal, lasting for 3--13 days (median 6 days), with the maximum sensitivity on day 6. A significantly lower dose of isoproterenol was necessary to increase heart rate 25 beats/min on day 6 (median dose 1.2 microgram, range 0.3--3.4 microgram) compared with after day 14, when sensitivity had stabilized (median dose 2.3 microgram, range 1.4--7.6 microgram). Six patients had transient symptoms (headache, chest pain, palpitations and sweating) after abrupt propranolol withdrawal, coinciding with supersensitivity to isoproterenol in five. Transient increases in plasma catecholamines and blood pressures and sustained increases in heart rate occurred during the period of isoproterenol supersensitivity in most patients, and may have contributed to symptoms noted. The delayed onset and potentially long duration of beta-adrenergic supersensitivity after abrupt propranolol withdrawal have important clinical implications.", "PMID": 436208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3064", "title": "Effects of amiodarone on cardiac and coronary hemodynamics and on myocardial metabolism in patients with coronary artery disease.", "content": "While the antiarrhythmic effects of amiodarone are well-documented, its hemodynamic effects are not. We injected 5 mg/kg amiodarone i.v. in 16 patients undergoing coronary arteriography. Heart rate did not change. Aortic (systolic, diastolic and mean) and left ventricular (systolic and end-diastolic) pressures decreased significantly (p less than 0.01) at 5 and 15 minutes; systemic vascular resistance also fell significantly (p less than 0.05), while cardiac index increased slightly but significantly (p less than 0.05). Coronary vascular resistance decreased significantly (p less than 0.01) and coronary sinus blood flow rose in most patients, from a mean of 138 ml/min to 153 ml/min at 5 minutes (p less than 0.02); it then returned toward the control value at 15 minutes (mean 145 ml/min). Myocardial metabolism of O2 was normal and unchanged. Metabolism of lactate improved in five patients, remained unchanged in seven and deteriorated transiently in four. No undesirable hemodynamic and clinical side effects occurred when the drug was administered slowly. We conclude that amiodarone is a powerful systemic and coronary vasodilator. In addition to its present indications in the treatment of angina pectoris and arrhythmias, the drug might be very useful as an afterload-reducing agent.", "contents": "Effects of amiodarone on cardiac and coronary hemodynamics and on myocardial metabolism in patients with coronary artery disease. While the antiarrhythmic effects of amiodarone are well-documented, its hemodynamic effects are not. We injected 5 mg/kg amiodarone i.v. in 16 patients undergoing coronary arteriography. Heart rate did not change. Aortic (systolic, diastolic and mean) and left ventricular (systolic and end-diastolic) pressures decreased significantly (p less than 0.01) at 5 and 15 minutes; systemic vascular resistance also fell significantly (p less than 0.05), while cardiac index increased slightly but significantly (p less than 0.05). Coronary vascular resistance decreased significantly (p less than 0.01) and coronary sinus blood flow rose in most patients, from a mean of 138 ml/min to 153 ml/min at 5 minutes (p less than 0.02); it then returned toward the control value at 15 minutes (mean 145 ml/min). Myocardial metabolism of O2 was normal and unchanged. Metabolism of lactate improved in five patients, remained unchanged in seven and deteriorated transiently in four. No undesirable hemodynamic and clinical side effects occurred when the drug was administered slowly. We conclude that amiodarone is a powerful systemic and coronary vasodilator. In addition to its present indications in the treatment of angina pectoris and arrhythmias, the drug might be very useful as an afterload-reducing agent.", "PMID": 436209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3065", "title": "Measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction by mechanical cross-sectional echocardiography.", "content": "Cross-sectional echocardiography is a new noninvasive technique for imaging the heart. We developed a method for using mechanical cross-sectional echocardiograms (sector scans) to determine left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction. Using left ventricular cineangiography as a standard, sector scan ejection fraction correlated better (r = 0.93) than M-mode echocardiography by any of three established methods, and the sector scan regression line did not differ from the line of identity (p greater than 0.33). Interobserver variability for sector scan ejection fraction was 2.3 +/- 1.2% (mean +/- SD). Variation between two studies performed within 24 hours and analyzed by the same observer was 1.4 +/- 1.5%. However, the sector scans consistently underestimated left ventricular end-diastolic volume. We conclude that sector scan echocardiography is more reliable than conventional M-mode technique for estimating left ventricular ejection fraction, but estimation of left ventricular end-diastolic volume is unreliable with the methods currently available.", "contents": "Measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction by mechanical cross-sectional echocardiography. Cross-sectional echocardiography is a new noninvasive technique for imaging the heart. We developed a method for using mechanical cross-sectional echocardiograms (sector scans) to determine left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction. Using left ventricular cineangiography as a standard, sector scan ejection fraction correlated better (r = 0.93) than M-mode echocardiography by any of three established methods, and the sector scan regression line did not differ from the line of identity (p greater than 0.33). Interobserver variability for sector scan ejection fraction was 2.3 +/- 1.2% (mean +/- SD). Variation between two studies performed within 24 hours and analyzed by the same observer was 1.4 +/- 1.5%. However, the sector scans consistently underestimated left ventricular end-diastolic volume. We conclude that sector scan echocardiography is more reliable than conventional M-mode technique for estimating left ventricular ejection fraction, but estimation of left ventricular end-diastolic volume is unreliable with the methods currently available.", "PMID": 436213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3066", "title": "The mechanism of apparent right bundle branch block after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot.", "content": "The electrocardiographic pattern of right bundle branch block (RBBB) is routinely observed after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot even though no ventriculotomy has been performed. The mechanism of this conduction disturbance was studied in 16 patients with tetralogy of Fallot and one patient with infundibular pulmonic stenosis. Preoperative ECGs and vectorcardiograms showed right ventricular hypertrophy and no RBBB. Epicardial activation maps were obtained before and after total surgical repair in all patients and after infundibular resection but before closure of ventricular septal defect (VSD) in four of these patients. After infundibular resection, RBBB appeared and activation was markedly delayed (greater than 30 msec) over the pulmonary outflow tract, but was unchanged over the body of the right ventricle. No further changes in ventricular activation occurred after closure of the VSD. This study shows that RBBB after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot is usually produced by infundibular resection, but not by VSD closure, and is associated with delayed activation of the pulmonary outflow tract and base of the right ventricle which results from damage to portions of the right ventricular conduction system.", "contents": "The mechanism of apparent right bundle branch block after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot. The electrocardiographic pattern of right bundle branch block (RBBB) is routinely observed after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot even though no ventriculotomy has been performed. The mechanism of this conduction disturbance was studied in 16 patients with tetralogy of Fallot and one patient with infundibular pulmonic stenosis. Preoperative ECGs and vectorcardiograms showed right ventricular hypertrophy and no RBBB. Epicardial activation maps were obtained before and after total surgical repair in all patients and after infundibular resection but before closure of ventricular septal defect (VSD) in four of these patients. After infundibular resection, RBBB appeared and activation was markedly delayed (greater than 30 msec) over the pulmonary outflow tract, but was unchanged over the body of the right ventricle. No further changes in ventricular activation occurred after closure of the VSD. This study shows that RBBB after transatrial repair of tetralogy of Fallot is usually produced by infundibular resection, but not by VSD closure, and is associated with delayed activation of the pulmonary outflow tract and base of the right ventricle which results from damage to portions of the right ventricular conduction system.", "PMID": 436216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3067", "title": "Body surface potential maps in patients with pulmonic valvular and aortic valvular stenosis of mild to moderate severity.", "content": "Multiple-lead surface potential maps were compared throughout ventricular activation in nine patients with mild-to-moderate pulmonic stenosis and in 12 patients with mild-to-moderate aortic stenosis. Abnormal patterns of potential distribution were found in aortic stenosis, including three patients without electrocardiographic evidence of left ventricular enlargement. When related to the onset of depolarization, abnormal departures started later, peaked later, lasted longer, and were more intense, more uniform and discrete in aortic stenosis. In pulmonic stenosis, abnormal departures started earlier, but were more dispersed in timing and location than in aortic stenosis. The left ventricle appears to be the more remote, though more powerful and compact, generator. The right ventricular shell, however, is nearer to the surface, and is more anatomically extended in surface area, permitting much wider shifts in wavefront location and orientation as a result of small differences in pressure, or volume, or location of the heart in the thorax.", "contents": "Body surface potential maps in patients with pulmonic valvular and aortic valvular stenosis of mild to moderate severity. Multiple-lead surface potential maps were compared throughout ventricular activation in nine patients with mild-to-moderate pulmonic stenosis and in 12 patients with mild-to-moderate aortic stenosis. Abnormal patterns of potential distribution were found in aortic stenosis, including three patients without electrocardiographic evidence of left ventricular enlargement. When related to the onset of depolarization, abnormal departures started later, peaked later, lasted longer, and were more intense, more uniform and discrete in aortic stenosis. In pulmonic stenosis, abnormal departures started earlier, but were more dispersed in timing and location than in aortic stenosis. The left ventricle appears to be the more remote, though more powerful and compact, generator. The right ventricular shell, however, is nearer to the surface, and is more anatomically extended in surface area, permitting much wider shifts in wavefront location and orientation as a result of small differences in pressure, or volume, or location of the heart in the thorax.", "PMID": 436219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3068", "title": "Familial occurrence of mitral valve prolapse in X-linked muscular dystrophy.", "content": "A high incidence of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) has been reported in patients with X-linked Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In our study MVP was present in six of 22 Duchenne dystrophy cases (27%) followed in the Maryland General Hospital Muscular Dystrophy Clinic. In addition, seven carriers of Duchenne and X-linked benign (Becker) dystrophy had evidence of MVP. Autosomal dominant transmission of MVP was present in four families. The unusually high prevalence of MVP in families with X-linked muscular dystrophy may have potential value in the recognition of the carrier trait.", "contents": "Familial occurrence of mitral valve prolapse in X-linked muscular dystrophy. A high incidence of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) has been reported in patients with X-linked Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In our study MVP was present in six of 22 Duchenne dystrophy cases (27%) followed in the Maryland General Hospital Muscular Dystrophy Clinic. In addition, seven carriers of Duchenne and X-linked benign (Becker) dystrophy had evidence of MVP. Autosomal dominant transmission of MVP was present in four families. The unusually high prevalence of MVP in families with X-linked muscular dystrophy may have potential value in the recognition of the carrier trait.", "PMID": 436221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3069", "title": "Effects of the Valsalva maneuver on myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease.", "content": "The influence of the Valsalva maneuver (VM) on myocardial ischemia was evaluated in 24 patients with coronary heart disease. Clinical and hemodynamic responses to the VM were studied during acute ischemia manifested by angina pectoris with transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and compared with responses during nonischemic intervals. In the absence of evidence for acute ischemia (angina and increased LV end-diastolic pressure), six patients had abnormal hemodynamic responses to the VM. Five had lack of systolic pressure overshoot and in one, systolic pressure did not decline during straining. When the VM was performed during an ischemic episode, 14 patients had abnormal responses (12 with lack of overshoot in phase IV and two with lack of systolic pressure decline in phase II). In 18 patients a prompt decline in LV end-diastolic pressure occurred with the disappearance of angina during the VM. These changes uniformly occurred during the latter part of straining (VM phase II) as cardiac size and systolic pressure declined. No adverse effects occurred when a VM was performed during acute ischemia. Our observations suggest that the VM abruptly reduces determinants of cardiac oxygen demand, relieving acute ischemia without harmful effects.", "contents": "Effects of the Valsalva maneuver on myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease. The influence of the Valsalva maneuver (VM) on myocardial ischemia was evaluated in 24 patients with coronary heart disease. Clinical and hemodynamic responses to the VM were studied during acute ischemia manifested by angina pectoris with transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and compared with responses during nonischemic intervals. In the absence of evidence for acute ischemia (angina and increased LV end-diastolic pressure), six patients had abnormal hemodynamic responses to the VM. Five had lack of systolic pressure overshoot and in one, systolic pressure did not decline during straining. When the VM was performed during an ischemic episode, 14 patients had abnormal responses (12 with lack of overshoot in phase IV and two with lack of systolic pressure decline in phase II). In 18 patients a prompt decline in LV end-diastolic pressure occurred with the disappearance of angina during the VM. These changes uniformly occurred during the latter part of straining (VM phase II) as cardiac size and systolic pressure declined. No adverse effects occurred when a VM was performed during acute ischemia. Our observations suggest that the VM abruptly reduces determinants of cardiac oxygen demand, relieving acute ischemia without harmful effects.", "PMID": 436222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3070", "title": "The conduction system in hypoplasia of the aortic tract complex.", "content": "This is a study of the course of the conduction system in two cases of hypoplasia of the aortic tract complex, one with mitral stenosis and the other with mitral atresia. In both there was a posterior atrioventricular (AV) node which formed the AV bundle. In case 1 the bundle was short and bifurcated early. The branching bundle gave off a large left bundle branch (LBB), many Mahaim fibers to the septum and a small right bundle branch (RBB). In case 2 the AV node was divided into two parts which formed two posterior bundles which joined together to form a short branching bundle. Instead of a LBB there were profuse Mahaim fibers passing from the branching bundle to the depths of the ventricular septum. The RBB was large. The abnormalities seen in the conduction system particularly in the LBB are discussed from the embryologic stand-point.", "contents": "The conduction system in hypoplasia of the aortic tract complex. This is a study of the course of the conduction system in two cases of hypoplasia of the aortic tract complex, one with mitral stenosis and the other with mitral atresia. In both there was a posterior atrioventricular (AV) node which formed the AV bundle. In case 1 the bundle was short and bifurcated early. The branching bundle gave off a large left bundle branch (LBB), many Mahaim fibers to the septum and a small right bundle branch (RBB). In case 2 the AV node was divided into two parts which formed two posterior bundles which joined together to form a short branching bundle. Instead of a LBB there were profuse Mahaim fibers passing from the branching bundle to the depths of the ventricular septum. The RBB was large. The abnormalities seen in the conduction system particularly in the LBB are discussed from the embryologic stand-point.", "PMID": 436223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3071", "title": "Relative stabilities of purified human mitochondrial and cytoplasmic isoenzymes of aspartate aminotransferase in lyophilized materials.", "content": "Eight different pools of purified human mitochondrial and cytoplasmic isoenzymes of aspartate aminotransferase were prepared, to examine the effects of the following matrix variables: the matrix support material (bovine serum albumin and polyvinylpyrrolidone), endogenous pyridoxal concentration, and azide as an antimicrobial preservation. Storage temperatures of 25 and 37 degrees C were used as a rapid and convenient means of accelerating the degradation process. Activity of the enzyme was measured with and without pyridoxal in the reaction solution. We found that the mitochondrial isoenzyme was consistently more labile than the cytoplasmic isoenzyme under identical storage conditions. Both isoenzymes were more stable in matrixes containing bovine serum albumin than in those containing polyvinylpyrrolidone. No apparent difference in the stability of either isoenzyme was observed at matrix pyridoxal concentrations of 15 micromol/L and 150 micromol/L. Only the mitochondrial isoenzyme in matrixes containing bovine serum albumin and 15 micromol of pyridoxal per liter had increased activity (about 9%) when pyridoxal was added to the enzymatic reagent. The amount of activity in reconstituted specimens did not apparently change after 72 h at 4 degrees C.", "contents": "Relative stabilities of purified human mitochondrial and cytoplasmic isoenzymes of aspartate aminotransferase in lyophilized materials. Eight different pools of purified human mitochondrial and cytoplasmic isoenzymes of aspartate aminotransferase were prepared, to examine the effects of the following matrix variables: the matrix support material (bovine serum albumin and polyvinylpyrrolidone), endogenous pyridoxal concentration, and azide as an antimicrobial preservation. Storage temperatures of 25 and 37 degrees C were used as a rapid and convenient means of accelerating the degradation process. Activity of the enzyme was measured with and without pyridoxal in the reaction solution. We found that the mitochondrial isoenzyme was consistently more labile than the cytoplasmic isoenzyme under identical storage conditions. Both isoenzymes were more stable in matrixes containing bovine serum albumin than in those containing polyvinylpyrrolidone. No apparent difference in the stability of either isoenzyme was observed at matrix pyridoxal concentrations of 15 micromol/L and 150 micromol/L. Only the mitochondrial isoenzyme in matrixes containing bovine serum albumin and 15 micromol of pyridoxal per liter had increased activity (about 9%) when pyridoxal was added to the enzymatic reagent. The amount of activity in reconstituted specimens did not apparently change after 72 h at 4 degrees C.", "PMID": 436229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3072", "title": "A simple, direct radioimmunoassay for plasma cortisol, featuring a 125I radioligand and a solid-phase separation technique.", "content": "A simple, direct radioimmunoassay for cortisol in human serum and plasma is described. An antiserum, raised in sheep to a cortisol-3-(O-carboxymethyl)oxime/bovine serum albumin conjugate, is coupled to microcellulose. No extraction is required because plasma samples and standards are incubated with the antiserum and an 125I radioligand in a low-pH buffer, which denatures cortisol-binding globulins. The assay satisfies accepted validation criteria. In addition, results from the radioimmunoassay compare well with those obtained by a gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric technique (r = 0.968; FRIA = 0.97 FGCMS + 2.0 nmol/L). The latter procedure features the very high intrinsic specificity obtained by selected ion monitoring at high mass-spectrometric resolution (M/deltaM = 8500) with a Varian MAT-731 instrument. The simplicity of the radioimmunoassay procedure, with use of reagents prepared \"in house,\" makes this a very practical and economical assay for use in the medium or large endocrine laboratory.", "contents": "A simple, direct radioimmunoassay for plasma cortisol, featuring a 125I radioligand and a solid-phase separation technique. A simple, direct radioimmunoassay for cortisol in human serum and plasma is described. An antiserum, raised in sheep to a cortisol-3-(O-carboxymethyl)oxime/bovine serum albumin conjugate, is coupled to microcellulose. No extraction is required because plasma samples and standards are incubated with the antiserum and an 125I radioligand in a low-pH buffer, which denatures cortisol-binding globulins. The assay satisfies accepted validation criteria. In addition, results from the radioimmunoassay compare well with those obtained by a gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric technique (r = 0.968; FRIA = 0.97 FGCMS + 2.0 nmol/L). The latter procedure features the very high intrinsic specificity obtained by selected ion monitoring at high mass-spectrometric resolution (M/deltaM = 8500) with a Varian MAT-731 instrument. The simplicity of the radioimmunoassay procedure, with use of reagents prepared \"in house,\" makes this a very practical and economical assay for use in the medium or large endocrine laboratory.", "PMID": 436230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3073", "title": "Predictive values of thyroxine, thyrotropin, and triiodothyronine concentrations in serum.", "content": "The predictive values of total thyroxine, thyrotropin, and total triiodothyronine concentrations in serum for clinically apparent and subclinical hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were determined by retrospective analysis of clinical cases chosen from the frequency distributions of hormone test results. Very low total thyroxine concentrations, less than 25 microgram/L, were specific for hypothyroidism. Most subclinical hypothyroid cases had intermediate or low total thyroxine concentrations, 35-60 microgram/L, with moderately increased thyrotropin concentrations, greater than 12 milli-int. units/L. Thyrotropin cut-off concentrations were identified that had predictive values greater than 90% for classifying untreated and hormone-treated hypothyroid cases. Above-normal total thyroxine concentrations, regardless of absolute value, were not specific for hyperthyroidism, because binding-protein alterations related to estrogen taking were prevalent and produced occasional marked increases in serum total thyroxine. Nevertheless, cut-off concentrations for serum total thyroxine and total triiodothyronine were identified that had a predictive value greater than 90% for hyperthyroidism, without necessitating measurement of the capacities or concentrations of hormone-binding proteins.", "contents": "Predictive values of thyroxine, thyrotropin, and triiodothyronine concentrations in serum. The predictive values of total thyroxine, thyrotropin, and total triiodothyronine concentrations in serum for clinically apparent and subclinical hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were determined by retrospective analysis of clinical cases chosen from the frequency distributions of hormone test results. Very low total thyroxine concentrations, less than 25 microgram/L, were specific for hypothyroidism. Most subclinical hypothyroid cases had intermediate or low total thyroxine concentrations, 35-60 microgram/L, with moderately increased thyrotropin concentrations, greater than 12 milli-int. units/L. Thyrotropin cut-off concentrations were identified that had predictive values greater than 90% for classifying untreated and hormone-treated hypothyroid cases. Above-normal total thyroxine concentrations, regardless of absolute value, were not specific for hyperthyroidism, because binding-protein alterations related to estrogen taking were prevalent and produced occasional marked increases in serum total thyroxine. Nevertheless, cut-off concentrations for serum total thyroxine and total triiodothyronine were identified that had a predictive value greater than 90% for hyperthyroidism, without necessitating measurement of the capacities or concentrations of hormone-binding proteins.", "PMID": 436231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3074", "title": "Outliers in clinical chemistry quality-control schemes.", "content": "Results submitted to large-scale quality-control schemes are commonly judged against the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the results from other laboratories. It is desirable to ignore outlying values in estimating this mean and standard deviation, and results more than 2.5 or 3 SD from the mean are commonly rejected. I show that an outlier can so inflate the estimated SD that its presence is not detected by this method. Alternative estimators that are less influenced by outliers are described, and their application to quality-control data is discussed.", "contents": "Outliers in clinical chemistry quality-control schemes. Results submitted to large-scale quality-control schemes are commonly judged against the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the results from other laboratories. It is desirable to ignore outlying values in estimating this mean and standard deviation, and results more than 2.5 or 3 SD from the mean are commonly rejected. I show that an outlier can so inflate the estimated SD that its presence is not detected by this method. Alternative estimators that are less influenced by outliers are described, and their application to quality-control data is discussed.", "PMID": 436232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3075", "title": "Method for determining thiocyanate in serum and urine.", "content": "We describe a method for rapid and specific measurement of thiocyanate in serum or urine. We separate thiocyanate from interfering compounds by adsorbing it on an anion-exchange resin that has special affinity for thiocyanate, then eluting with sodium perchlorate. The eluted thiocyanate is quantified by a modified K\u00f6nig reaction, sodium hypochlorite being used as the chlorinating reagent. Analytical recovery of thiocyanate added to serum and urine was quantitative; the coefficient of variation was 2.3% for both within-day and between-day precision. Cyanide and certain antibiotics interfere, but may be eliminated by including additional washing steps in the usual procedure. The proposed procedure was compared with another method, based on the oxidation of thiocyanate to cyanide. Agreement was satisfactory, both for serum and urine.", "contents": "Method for determining thiocyanate in serum and urine. We describe a method for rapid and specific measurement of thiocyanate in serum or urine. We separate thiocyanate from interfering compounds by adsorbing it on an anion-exchange resin that has special affinity for thiocyanate, then eluting with sodium perchlorate. The eluted thiocyanate is quantified by a modified K\u00f6nig reaction, sodium hypochlorite being used as the chlorinating reagent. Analytical recovery of thiocyanate added to serum and urine was quantitative; the coefficient of variation was 2.3% for both within-day and between-day precision. Cyanide and certain antibiotics interfere, but may be eliminated by including additional washing steps in the usual procedure. The proposed procedure was compared with another method, based on the oxidation of thiocyanate to cyanide. Agreement was satisfactory, both for serum and urine.", "PMID": 436233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3076", "title": "Phosphatidylglycerol in 261 samples of amniotic fluid from normal and diabetic pregnancies, as measured by one-dimensional thin-layer chromatography.", "content": "We describe a one-dimensional thin-layer chromatographic method for separating lecithin, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylglycerol, and other phospholipids. The occurrence of phosphatidylglycerol in relation to the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio is reported for 261 amniotic fluid samples. This compound does not consistently appear until the ratio exceeds about 3.1, and occurs less often in samples from diabetic patients than in those from normal patients. The respiratory distress syndrome did not occur when phosphatidylglycerol was present in amniotic fluid although the reverse was not necessarily true. Thus the presence of phosphatidylglycerol offers additional assurance of pulmonary maturity.", "contents": "Phosphatidylglycerol in 261 samples of amniotic fluid from normal and diabetic pregnancies, as measured by one-dimensional thin-layer chromatography. We describe a one-dimensional thin-layer chromatographic method for separating lecithin, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylglycerol, and other phospholipids. The occurrence of phosphatidylglycerol in relation to the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio is reported for 261 amniotic fluid samples. This compound does not consistently appear until the ratio exceeds about 3.1, and occurs less often in samples from diabetic patients than in those from normal patients. The respiratory distress syndrome did not occur when phosphatidylglycerol was present in amniotic fluid although the reverse was not necessarily true. Thus the presence of phosphatidylglycerol offers additional assurance of pulmonary maturity.", "PMID": 436234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3077", "title": "Microchemical analysis for 13 constituents of plasma from healthy children.", "content": "Normal values for 13 chemical constituents of plasma were estimated from results for 837 presumably healthy children. Ninety microliters of specimen was analyzed for lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, inorganic phosphorus, total calcium, total cholesterol, total proteins, albumin, uric acid, urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and glucose. We used two Abbott ABA-100 Bichromatic Analyzers interfaced directly to the ABA Data Management System. For each test age- and sex-related variations were assessed and normal values were estimated for six different age groups.", "contents": "Microchemical analysis for 13 constituents of plasma from healthy children. Normal values for 13 chemical constituents of plasma were estimated from results for 837 presumably healthy children. Ninety microliters of specimen was analyzed for lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, inorganic phosphorus, total calcium, total cholesterol, total proteins, albumin, uric acid, urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and glucose. We used two Abbott ABA-100 Bichromatic Analyzers interfaced directly to the ABA Data Management System. For each test age- and sex-related variations were assessed and normal values were estimated for six different age groups.", "PMID": 436235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3078", "title": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part I. Sampling and sample preparation of platelets for trace-element analysis.", "content": "Sampling of platelets for trace-element analysis poses special problems: obtaining adequate sample material, achieving a sufficient cell purity, preserving viability (integrity), correcting for trapped plasma, and controlling contamination. We used a blood-cell separator for the primary isolation of platelets from blood, and differential centrifugation in natural plasma to further isolate them. The pyrimidopyrimidine RA233 was used as a stabilizer to maintain viability. 131I-labeled human serum albumin was used to estimate trapped plasma. Contamination was controlled by using five-times-distilled water to simulate donor's blood in the system and by comparing three fractions: the serum, the first portion of the platelet-rich plasma, and the supernatant plasma after the final centrifugation. Neutron activation analysis was used for the elemental analysis. A single differential centrifugation of the platelet-rich plasma from the blood-cell separator at 400 x g for 8 min was optimum (mean mass fractions:erythrocytes/platelets less than 5 mg/g and leukocytes/platelets less than 20 mg/g). The trapped plasma in the wet platelet samples amounted to about 0.40 g/g. No appreciable contamination from the sampling system was found for the elements Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Mo, Rb, Sb, Se, and Zn.", "contents": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part I. Sampling and sample preparation of platelets for trace-element analysis. Sampling of platelets for trace-element analysis poses special problems: obtaining adequate sample material, achieving a sufficient cell purity, preserving viability (integrity), correcting for trapped plasma, and controlling contamination. We used a blood-cell separator for the primary isolation of platelets from blood, and differential centrifugation in natural plasma to further isolate them. The pyrimidopyrimidine RA233 was used as a stabilizer to maintain viability. 131I-labeled human serum albumin was used to estimate trapped plasma. Contamination was controlled by using five-times-distilled water to simulate donor's blood in the system and by comparing three fractions: the serum, the first portion of the platelet-rich plasma, and the supernatant plasma after the final centrifugation. Neutron activation analysis was used for the elemental analysis. A single differential centrifugation of the platelet-rich plasma from the blood-cell separator at 400 x g for 8 min was optimum (mean mass fractions:erythrocytes/platelets less than 5 mg/g and leukocytes/platelets less than 20 mg/g). The trapped plasma in the wet platelet samples amounted to about 0.40 g/g. No appreciable contamination from the sampling system was found for the elements Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Mo, Rb, Sb, Se, and Zn.", "PMID": 436236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3079", "title": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part II. Water content of normal human platelets and measurements of their concentrations of Cu, Fe, K, and Zn by neutron activation analysis.", "content": "We determined the elements Cu, Fe, K, and Zn in normal human platelets by neutron activation analysis. The platelets were obtained from seven donors and treated as described in Part I. The elemental composition is expressed on a wet-weight basis for plasma-free platelets. The following results were obtained (+/- values are 1 SD); \"Pure\" platelets: trapped plasma = 378 +/- 35 mg/g, water content = 715 +/- 15 mg/g, mean weight of the single platelet (by two different methods) = 9.9 +/- 1.1 pg and 11.2 +/- 1.7 pg, K = 4.39 +/- 1.06 mg/g, Zn = 49.23 +/- 10.97 microgram/g, Fe = 12.28 +/- 2.94 microgram/g, and Cu = 1.39 +/- 0.25 microgram/g. \"Impure\" platelets: trapped plasma = 349 +/- 31 mg/g, water content = 736 +/- 12 mg/g, K = 3.26 +/- 0.78 mg/g, Zn = 35.71 +/- 7.99 microgram/g, Fe = 17.11 +/- 5.10 microgram/g, and Cu = 1.39 +/- 0.21 microgram/g. To our knowledge, no data on Fe and Cu in platelets have hitherto been reported.", "contents": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part II. Water content of normal human platelets and measurements of their concentrations of Cu, Fe, K, and Zn by neutron activation analysis. We determined the elements Cu, Fe, K, and Zn in normal human platelets by neutron activation analysis. The platelets were obtained from seven donors and treated as described in Part I. The elemental composition is expressed on a wet-weight basis for plasma-free platelets. The following results were obtained (+/- values are 1 SD); \"Pure\" platelets: trapped plasma = 378 +/- 35 mg/g, water content = 715 +/- 15 mg/g, mean weight of the single platelet (by two different methods) = 9.9 +/- 1.1 pg and 11.2 +/- 1.7 pg, K = 4.39 +/- 1.06 mg/g, Zn = 49.23 +/- 10.97 microgram/g, Fe = 12.28 +/- 2.94 microgram/g, and Cu = 1.39 +/- 0.25 microgram/g. \"Impure\" platelets: trapped plasma = 349 +/- 31 mg/g, water content = 736 +/- 12 mg/g, K = 3.26 +/- 0.78 mg/g, Zn = 35.71 +/- 7.99 microgram/g, Fe = 17.11 +/- 5.10 microgram/g, and Cu = 1.39 +/- 0.21 microgram/g. To our knowledge, no data on Fe and Cu in platelets have hitherto been reported.", "PMID": 436237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3080", "title": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part III. Determination of Ag, Au, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Mo, Rb, Sb, and Se in normal human platelets by neutron activation analysis.", "content": "The elements Ag, Au, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Mo, Rb, Sb, and Se were determined in platelets from seven normal donors. The results, in ng/g wet weight, for plasma-free platelets follow: \"Pure\" platelets: Ag = 29 +/- (18), au = 0.22 +/- (0.22), Cd = 6.2 +/- 3.4, Cs = 54.8 +/- 19.2, Cr = 6.1 +/- 2.5, Co = 7.5 +/- (5.0), Mo = 3.4 +/- 1.3, Rb = 10400 +/- 3000, Sb = 18 +/- (26), and Se = 782 +/- 127. \"Impure\" platelets: Au = 0.23 +/- (0.28), Cd = 6.4 +/- 2.6, Cs = 35.2 +/- 13.8, Cr = 8.2 +/- 2.9, Co = 2.9 +/- (3.0), Mo = 3.2 +/- 0.8, Rb = 8700 +/- 1700, Sb = 13.2 +/- (8.7), and Se = 679 +/- 57. To our knowledge, none of these 10 trace elements has been determined in platelets before. The selenium concentration in platelets exceeds that in other tissues (e.g., liver). We suggest that glutathione peroxidase or other unknown selenoenzymes are particularly important in platelet metabolism. Platelets are crucial for triggering thrombosis, and so may be involved as links between selenium deficiency and the concomitant increased death rate from cardiovascular disease.", "contents": "Elemental composition of platelets. Part III. Determination of Ag, Au, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Mo, Rb, Sb, and Se in normal human platelets by neutron activation analysis. The elements Ag, Au, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Mo, Rb, Sb, and Se were determined in platelets from seven normal donors. The results, in ng/g wet weight, for plasma-free platelets follow: \"Pure\" platelets: Ag = 29 +/- (18), au = 0.22 +/- (0.22), Cd = 6.2 +/- 3.4, Cs = 54.8 +/- 19.2, Cr = 6.1 +/- 2.5, Co = 7.5 +/- (5.0), Mo = 3.4 +/- 1.3, Rb = 10400 +/- 3000, Sb = 18 +/- (26), and Se = 782 +/- 127. \"Impure\" platelets: Au = 0.23 +/- (0.28), Cd = 6.4 +/- 2.6, Cs = 35.2 +/- 13.8, Cr = 8.2 +/- 2.9, Co = 2.9 +/- (3.0), Mo = 3.2 +/- 0.8, Rb = 8700 +/- 1700, Sb = 13.2 +/- (8.7), and Se = 679 +/- 57. To our knowledge, none of these 10 trace elements has been determined in platelets before. The selenium concentration in platelets exceeds that in other tissues (e.g., liver). We suggest that glutathione peroxidase or other unknown selenoenzymes are particularly important in platelet metabolism. Platelets are crucial for triggering thrombosis, and so may be involved as links between selenium deficiency and the concomitant increased death rate from cardiovascular disease.", "PMID": 436238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3081", "title": "Significance of \"high\" acid phosphatase activity in the serum of normal children.", "content": "Serum acid phosphatase activity in normal children (newborn to 18 years) is several fold that in normal adults. Activity is age-related but not sex-related. The isoenzyme pattern in children is similar to that in adults and contains no prostatic fraction. Quantitatively, most of the enzyme activity in the serum of children is tartrate-resistant and correlates well with heat-labile fractions of alkaline phosphatase activity in serum, suggesting that the source of the higher acid phosphatase activity in children is bone. Significant tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity was demonstrated in the giant cells in three patients with giant-cell tumors, but not in the \"osteoblasts\" in six patients with osteogenic sarcomas and many other normal or abnormal tissues. This work suggests that the higher enzyme activity in the serum of children represents a normal physiological phenomenon resulting from their greater osteoclastic activity.", "contents": "Significance of \"high\" acid phosphatase activity in the serum of normal children. Serum acid phosphatase activity in normal children (newborn to 18 years) is several fold that in normal adults. Activity is age-related but not sex-related. The isoenzyme pattern in children is similar to that in adults and contains no prostatic fraction. Quantitatively, most of the enzyme activity in the serum of children is tartrate-resistant and correlates well with heat-labile fractions of alkaline phosphatase activity in serum, suggesting that the source of the higher acid phosphatase activity in children is bone. Significant tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity was demonstrated in the giant cells in three patients with giant-cell tumors, but not in the \"osteoblasts\" in six patients with osteogenic sarcomas and many other normal or abnormal tissues. This work suggests that the higher enzyme activity in the serum of children represents a normal physiological phenomenon resulting from their greater osteoclastic activity.", "PMID": 436239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3082", "title": "Anaphylaxis in the mouse--a model for using two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion to study pathological changes in multiple serum proteins simultaneously.", "content": "Two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion is rarely used in clinical chemistry, because its potentialities are not yet widely appreciated. Studying mouse anaphylaxis, we observed with this technique certain striking short- and long-term pathologic changes in several important serum antigens, which aptly demonstrate its uniqueness and potential clinical usefulness. We present some of these observations here, for illustration. We analyzed sera from CF-1 female mice that had been anaphylactically shocked with chicken conalbumin antigen and bled 45 min to 22 days afterward. In three separate experiments, with samples of serum being analyzed only once each, this technique easily and surely detected quantitative and (or) qualitative changes in several serum antigens. We discuss here the changes in 7S gamma1 immunoglobulin, C3 globulin, hemopexin, and alpha lipoprotein, and explain how some of these changes would have been difficult and others impossible to detect by currently routine tests. We urge the adoption of two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion for frequent use in the clinical laboratory for diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring pathological conditions.", "contents": "Anaphylaxis in the mouse--a model for using two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion to study pathological changes in multiple serum proteins simultaneously. Two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion is rarely used in clinical chemistry, because its potentialities are not yet widely appreciated. Studying mouse anaphylaxis, we observed with this technique certain striking short- and long-term pathologic changes in several important serum antigens, which aptly demonstrate its uniqueness and potential clinical usefulness. We present some of these observations here, for illustration. We analyzed sera from CF-1 female mice that had been anaphylactically shocked with chicken conalbumin antigen and bled 45 min to 22 days afterward. In three separate experiments, with samples of serum being analyzed only once each, this technique easily and surely detected quantitative and (or) qualitative changes in several serum antigens. We discuss here the changes in 7S gamma1 immunoglobulin, C3 globulin, hemopexin, and alpha lipoprotein, and explain how some of these changes would have been difficult and others impossible to detect by currently routine tests. We urge the adoption of two-dimensional electroimmunodiffusion for frequent use in the clinical laboratory for diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring pathological conditions.", "PMID": 436240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3083", "title": "Serum ferritin compared with other indices of iron status in children and teenagers undergoing maintenance hemodialysis.", "content": "To determine how best to assess iron status, I studied 12 young renal patients (ages 5.5 to 20 years) undergoing regular hemodialysis treatments. Iron balance was estimated by monitoring iron loss ascribable to blood loss during dialysis and diagnostic testing, and iron intake in the form of oral and intravenous iron supplements and blood transfusions. Traditional methods of evaluating iron status--measurement of hemoglobin, erythrocyte indices, reticulocyte count, iron, and transferrin--were compared with measurement of serum ferritin. The serum ferritin measurements provided superior information. In three cases this method was superior to visual assessment of bone marrow stained for iron.", "contents": "Serum ferritin compared with other indices of iron status in children and teenagers undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. To determine how best to assess iron status, I studied 12 young renal patients (ages 5.5 to 20 years) undergoing regular hemodialysis treatments. Iron balance was estimated by monitoring iron loss ascribable to blood loss during dialysis and diagnostic testing, and iron intake in the form of oral and intravenous iron supplements and blood transfusions. Traditional methods of evaluating iron status--measurement of hemoglobin, erythrocyte indices, reticulocyte count, iron, and transferrin--were compared with measurement of serum ferritin. The serum ferritin measurements provided superior information. In three cases this method was superior to visual assessment of bone marrow stained for iron.", "PMID": 436243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3084", "title": "Electrolytes of breast-cyst fluid.", "content": "We constructed an electrolyte balance sheet for 11 individual specimens and two pooled specimens of breast-cyst fluid. Na+ and K+ ranged in concentrations from those representative of extracellular fluids (147 and 9 mmol/L, respectively) to those of intracellular fluid or a high K+ secretion (23 and 168 mmol/L, respectively). Cl- concentrations ranged from 9 to 98 mmol/L (mean, 31), bicarbonate concentrations from 0 to 34 mmol/L (mean, 16). Ca2+ concentrations did not exceed 2.1 mmol/L. Total protein ranged from 14.7 to 35.8 gL. Fluid osmolality ranged from 249 to 300 mOsm/kg of water (mean, 280). The difference between measured cations and anions indicates an \"anion gap\" of 140 mmol/L, which must be carried by 46 mOsm/kg of water. We suggest that tricarboxylic acids of the Krebs cycle may account for the missing trivalent anions.", "contents": "Electrolytes of breast-cyst fluid. We constructed an electrolyte balance sheet for 11 individual specimens and two pooled specimens of breast-cyst fluid. Na+ and K+ ranged in concentrations from those representative of extracellular fluids (147 and 9 mmol/L, respectively) to those of intracellular fluid or a high K+ secretion (23 and 168 mmol/L, respectively). Cl- concentrations ranged from 9 to 98 mmol/L (mean, 31), bicarbonate concentrations from 0 to 34 mmol/L (mean, 16). Ca2+ concentrations did not exceed 2.1 mmol/L. Total protein ranged from 14.7 to 35.8 gL. Fluid osmolality ranged from 249 to 300 mOsm/kg of water (mean, 280). The difference between measured cations and anions indicates an \"anion gap\" of 140 mmol/L, which must be carried by 46 mOsm/kg of water. We suggest that tricarboxylic acids of the Krebs cycle may account for the missing trivalent anions.", "PMID": 436244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3085", "title": "Limitations of immunochemical measurement of ceruloplasmin.", "content": "We describe a quantitative immunochemical method for the nephelometric measurement of ceruloplasmin. Results are compared with those from a radial immunodiffusion technique. We examine factors affecting the results, such as antiserum source and calibrators, and list reference limits for a pediatric population.", "contents": "Limitations of immunochemical measurement of ceruloplasmin. We describe a quantitative immunochemical method for the nephelometric measurement of ceruloplasmin. Results are compared with those from a radial immunodiffusion technique. We examine factors affecting the results, such as antiserum source and calibrators, and list reference limits for a pediatric population.", "PMID": 436245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3086", "title": "Double-antibody method and the protein-A-bearing Staphylococcus aureus cells method compared for separating bound and free antigen in radioimmunoassay.", "content": "We compared the protein-A-bearing Staphylococcus aureus immunoadsorbent to the double-antibody precipitation method for separating bound and free radiolabeled antigen in a radioimmunoassay. With human albumin (antigen) and rabbit anti-human albumin (antibody) as a model, our results indicate that formalin-fixed, heat-killed S. aureus cells could be substituted for the double-antibody precipitation method. Ease of preparation and high adsorption capacity of protein-A-bearing S. aureus for most mammalian IgG make this method economical and time saving.", "contents": "Double-antibody method and the protein-A-bearing Staphylococcus aureus cells method compared for separating bound and free antigen in radioimmunoassay. We compared the protein-A-bearing Staphylococcus aureus immunoadsorbent to the double-antibody precipitation method for separating bound and free radiolabeled antigen in a radioimmunoassay. With human albumin (antigen) and rabbit anti-human albumin (antibody) as a model, our results indicate that formalin-fixed, heat-killed S. aureus cells could be substituted for the double-antibody precipitation method. Ease of preparation and high adsorption capacity of protein-A-bearing S. aureus for most mammalian IgG make this method economical and time saving.", "PMID": 436246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3087", "title": "Direct determination of mercury in blood by use of sodium borohydride reduction and atomic absorption spectrophotometry.", "content": "A method is presented for the rapid determination of total mercury in blood. The reagent used is alkaline sodium borohydride, and no digestion of the sample is needed. The detection limit and sensitivity are 1.15 and 1.59 ng of Hg, respectively. The method gives reproducible results (the CV ranged from 5.3 to 6.7% for low and high mercury blood samples, respectively), comparable to those obtained by the digestion method. The mean analytical recoveries of added mercuric chloride and methylmercuric chloride were 106.65 and 99.02%, respectively. Other advantages of the method are freedom from contamination encountered with digestion methods and elimination of matrix effects.", "contents": "Direct determination of mercury in blood by use of sodium borohydride reduction and atomic absorption spectrophotometry. A method is presented for the rapid determination of total mercury in blood. The reagent used is alkaline sodium borohydride, and no digestion of the sample is needed. The detection limit and sensitivity are 1.15 and 1.59 ng of Hg, respectively. The method gives reproducible results (the CV ranged from 5.3 to 6.7% for low and high mercury blood samples, respectively), comparable to those obtained by the digestion method. The mean analytical recoveries of added mercuric chloride and methylmercuric chloride were 106.65 and 99.02%, respectively. Other advantages of the method are freedom from contamination encountered with digestion methods and elimination of matrix effects.", "PMID": 436247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3088", "title": "Extraction of human plasma or sera by heat treatment for a solid-phase radioimmunoassay of carcinoembryonic antigen.", "content": "Heat treatment and a solid-phase radioimmunoassay are combined to give a relatively simple and rapid procedure for assay of carcinoembryonic antigen in plasma or serum. The new way we describe to extract this antigen is an alternative to the conventional method of extraction with perchloric acid. Heating plasma or serum samples in acetate buffer (0.16 mol/L, pH 5.0) at 70 degrees C for 15 min precipitates out most of the heat-labile, nonspecific plasma proteins, but leaves most of the antigen in solution, with its immunochemical properties apparently unaffected. Comparison between the heat treatment and the perchloric acid extraction yielded comparable values when tested either by solid-phase radioimmunoassay or by the zirconyl phosphate precipitation method. An added advantage of our method is that it gives the same assay values for both plasma and serum. Results for a group of pathological plasma samples, assayed by both our method and the perchloric acid-zirconyl phosphate precipitation method, gave a correlation coefficient of 0.90.", "contents": "Extraction of human plasma or sera by heat treatment for a solid-phase radioimmunoassay of carcinoembryonic antigen. Heat treatment and a solid-phase radioimmunoassay are combined to give a relatively simple and rapid procedure for assay of carcinoembryonic antigen in plasma or serum. The new way we describe to extract this antigen is an alternative to the conventional method of extraction with perchloric acid. Heating plasma or serum samples in acetate buffer (0.16 mol/L, pH 5.0) at 70 degrees C for 15 min precipitates out most of the heat-labile, nonspecific plasma proteins, but leaves most of the antigen in solution, with its immunochemical properties apparently unaffected. Comparison between the heat treatment and the perchloric acid extraction yielded comparable values when tested either by solid-phase radioimmunoassay or by the zirconyl phosphate precipitation method. An added advantage of our method is that it gives the same assay values for both plasma and serum. Results for a group of pathological plasma samples, assayed by both our method and the perchloric acid-zirconyl phosphate precipitation method, gave a correlation coefficient of 0.90.", "PMID": 436248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3089", "title": "Improved liquid-chromatographic determination of propranolol in plasma, with fluorescence detection.", "content": "We describe an analysis for propranolol in plasma, with use of reversed-phase \"high-pressure\" liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection. Pronethalol is used as the internal standard. The procedure, which involves extraction into an organic solvent, evaporation, and clean-up by micro-scale back extraction from hexane into an aqueous phase, is specific and sensitive. The detection limit is less than 6 microgram/L (2.3 X 10(-8) mol/L). Within-day and between-day coefficients of variation are 1.8 and 4.4%, respectively. Commonly used drugs, including procainamide, N-acetylprocainamide, and quinidine, do not interfere.", "contents": "Improved liquid-chromatographic determination of propranolol in plasma, with fluorescence detection. We describe an analysis for propranolol in plasma, with use of reversed-phase \"high-pressure\" liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection. Pronethalol is used as the internal standard. The procedure, which involves extraction into an organic solvent, evaporation, and clean-up by micro-scale back extraction from hexane into an aqueous phase, is specific and sensitive. The detection limit is less than 6 microgram/L (2.3 X 10(-8) mol/L). Within-day and between-day coefficients of variation are 1.8 and 4.4%, respectively. Commonly used drugs, including procainamide, N-acetylprocainamide, and quinidine, do not interfere.", "PMID": 436249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3090", "title": "Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase measurements with two automated analyzers, SMAC and the ABA-100, compared.", "content": "Measurements of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase with the SMAC were evaluated for correlation with the ABA-100, precision, linearity, and carryover. We assayed 200 specimens with normal and abnormal aminotransferase activities with both the SMAC (y) and the ABA-100 (X). Linear regression analysis of the data yielded the following: alanine aminotransferase (r = 0.9732, y = 0.96x + 3.8); and aspartate aminotransferase (r = 0.9892, y = 0.90x + 2.1). Both aminotransferases demonstrated acceptable intra- and inter-assay variations with the SMAC and ABA-100. With the SMAC the upper limit of linearity for alanine aminotransferase was 350 U/L; that for asparate aminotransferase was 450 U/L. Carryover studies for SMAC indicate that specimens immediately following specimens with alanine aminotransferase activities greater 400 U/L and (or) aspartate aminotransferase activities greater than 500 U/L should be re-analyzed.", "contents": "Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase measurements with two automated analyzers, SMAC and the ABA-100, compared. Measurements of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase with the SMAC were evaluated for correlation with the ABA-100, precision, linearity, and carryover. We assayed 200 specimens with normal and abnormal aminotransferase activities with both the SMAC (y) and the ABA-100 (X). Linear regression analysis of the data yielded the following: alanine aminotransferase (r = 0.9732, y = 0.96x + 3.8); and aspartate aminotransferase (r = 0.9892, y = 0.90x + 2.1). Both aminotransferases demonstrated acceptable intra- and inter-assay variations with the SMAC and ABA-100. With the SMAC the upper limit of linearity for alanine aminotransferase was 350 U/L; that for asparate aminotransferase was 450 U/L. Carryover studies for SMAC indicate that specimens immediately following specimens with alanine aminotransferase activities greater 400 U/L and (or) aspartate aminotransferase activities greater than 500 U/L should be re-analyzed.", "PMID": 436250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3091", "title": "Positive interference of catecholamine metabolites with quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction method.", "content": "We report the effect of major catecholamine metabolites such as homovanillic acid and vanilmandelic acid, normally present in urine, on quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction procedure [(Am. J. Clin. Pathol. 60, 691 (1973)]. When aqueous uric acid standards containing a mixture of these two metabolites, in concentrations comparable to those in a normal human 24-h urine, were added to Fe3+-phenanthroline or Fe3+-2,4,6-tripyridyl-s-triazine reaction mixture, the resulting absorbances at 505 or 593 nm considerably exceeded those of standards without such additions. Moreover, quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction procedure gave values that significantly exceeded those determined by the uricase method. Interference by the two metabolites was eliminated by extracting urine specimens with ethyl acetate before quantitation. Spectral scans revealed that homovanillic acid or vanilmandelic acid alone could also effectively reduce Fe3+-chelator complex and that the effect of these compounds on the analytical reaction was additive.", "contents": "Positive interference of catecholamine metabolites with quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction method. We report the effect of major catecholamine metabolites such as homovanillic acid and vanilmandelic acid, normally present in urine, on quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction procedure [(Am. J. Clin. Pathol. 60, 691 (1973)]. When aqueous uric acid standards containing a mixture of these two metabolites, in concentrations comparable to those in a normal human 24-h urine, were added to Fe3+-phenanthroline or Fe3+-2,4,6-tripyridyl-s-triazine reaction mixture, the resulting absorbances at 505 or 593 nm considerably exceeded those of standards without such additions. Moreover, quantitation of urinary uric acid by the direct acid ferric-reduction procedure gave values that significantly exceeded those determined by the uricase method. Interference by the two metabolites was eliminated by extracting urine specimens with ethyl acetate before quantitation. Spectral scans revealed that homovanillic acid or vanilmandelic acid alone could also effectively reduce Fe3+-chelator complex and that the effect of these compounds on the analytical reaction was additive.", "PMID": 436251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3092", "title": "A simple method for the intravenous fat-tolerance test.", "content": "A simple method for measuring intravenous fat tolerance with an artificial fat emulsion (intralipid) was studied and compared with the currently used method of Carlson and Rossner [J. Lab. Invest. 29, 271-280 (1972)]. The proposed method uses as little as 3 mL of whole blood to follow, by nephelometry, the elimination of intravenously administered fat emulsions. There is a high correlation between the K2 values obtained by the current method for plasma and those obtained by the proposed method (r = 0.903). The latter is simpler, quicker, and more acceptable to patients.", "contents": "A simple method for the intravenous fat-tolerance test. A simple method for measuring intravenous fat tolerance with an artificial fat emulsion (intralipid) was studied and compared with the currently used method of Carlson and Rossner [J. Lab. Invest. 29, 271-280 (1972)]. The proposed method uses as little as 3 mL of whole blood to follow, by nephelometry, the elimination of intravenously administered fat emulsions. There is a high correlation between the K2 values obtained by the current method for plasma and those obtained by the proposed method (r = 0.903). The latter is simpler, quicker, and more acceptable to patients.", "PMID": 436252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3093", "title": "Assessment of fetal lung maturity by colorimetric phospholipid determination without digestion.", "content": "A previously described method for the determination of phospholipid concentration in amniotic fluid without digestion has been modified to make it more suitable for use in a routine laboratory. Results compare well with those by the original procedure. Results from nearly 70 amniotic fluids, collected at delivery, were compared with lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios determined on the same fluids. Statistical analysis of these data showed that for the prediction of lung immaturity, determination of total phospholipid concentration was at least as good as the L/S ratio.", "contents": "Assessment of fetal lung maturity by colorimetric phospholipid determination without digestion. A previously described method for the determination of phospholipid concentration in amniotic fluid without digestion has been modified to make it more suitable for use in a routine laboratory. Results compare well with those by the original procedure. Results from nearly 70 amniotic fluids, collected at delivery, were compared with lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios determined on the same fluids. Statistical analysis of these data showed that for the prediction of lung immaturity, determination of total phospholipid concentration was at least as good as the L/S ratio.", "PMID": 436253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3094", "title": "A simplified assay method of superoxide dismutase activity for clinical use.", "content": "A simple and inexpensive assay method of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of various biological materials has been developed. SOD activity can easily be measured by reading the medium's intense absorbance directly, and many samples can be treated in a short time using a reaction stopper which acts for a long time. Reproducibility of the assay method was excellent for the sample from an individual estimated at two different times (a week to a month) and the coefficient of variance was 5.1%. The mean and standard deviation of SOD activities of 45 blood samples from normal Japanese males 32.9 +/- 10.5 microgram per ml of blood; estimated using bovine SOD standard. The SOD activity of the fluid from lavaged lungs was 15.7 +/- 1.8 microgram/ml, and that of lung tissue homogenates from rats was 2.85 +/- 0.66 microgram/mg of protein.", "contents": "A simplified assay method of superoxide dismutase activity for clinical use. A simple and inexpensive assay method of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of various biological materials has been developed. SOD activity can easily be measured by reading the medium's intense absorbance directly, and many samples can be treated in a short time using a reaction stopper which acts for a long time. Reproducibility of the assay method was excellent for the sample from an individual estimated at two different times (a week to a month) and the coefficient of variance was 5.1%. The mean and standard deviation of SOD activities of 45 blood samples from normal Japanese males 32.9 +/- 10.5 microgram per ml of blood; estimated using bovine SOD standard. The SOD activity of the fluid from lavaged lungs was 15.7 +/- 1.8 microgram/ml, and that of lung tissue homogenates from rats was 2.85 +/- 0.66 microgram/mg of protein.", "PMID": 436274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3095", "title": "The effect of sex, deviation from ideal weight and sampling time on blood constituents in presumably healthy subjects.", "content": "In order to verify the influence of sampling time on blood constituents, populations of supposedly healthy subjects were grouped according to age, sex, deviation from their ideal weight, state of fasting or nonfasting, and time of sampling. Each fasting subject in one group underwent two samplings during the course of a morning: the first at 08.00 and the second between 09.00 and 12.00. In the second group, the first was taken at 13.00, and the second between 14.00 and 16.00. Subjects in the second group had eaten a standard meal of 700 calories at 12.00. Differences between the paired samples from a given individual are discussed with respect to the time of sampling for plasma urea, creatinine, proteins, albumin, calcium, sodium, potassium, cholesterol, uric acid, chloride ions, phosphate, bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, alkaline phosphatase, hemoglobin and erythrocyte and leukocyte counts. Variations due to the time of sampling were large for phosphorus, bilirubin, and leukocyte count.", "contents": "The effect of sex, deviation from ideal weight and sampling time on blood constituents in presumably healthy subjects. In order to verify the influence of sampling time on blood constituents, populations of supposedly healthy subjects were grouped according to age, sex, deviation from their ideal weight, state of fasting or nonfasting, and time of sampling. Each fasting subject in one group underwent two samplings during the course of a morning: the first at 08.00 and the second between 09.00 and 12.00. In the second group, the first was taken at 13.00, and the second between 14.00 and 16.00. Subjects in the second group had eaten a standard meal of 700 calories at 12.00. Differences between the paired samples from a given individual are discussed with respect to the time of sampling for plasma urea, creatinine, proteins, albumin, calcium, sodium, potassium, cholesterol, uric acid, chloride ions, phosphate, bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, alkaline phosphatase, hemoglobin and erythrocyte and leukocyte counts. Variations due to the time of sampling were large for phosphorus, bilirubin, and leukocyte count.", "PMID": 436275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3096", "title": "A sensitive fluorimetric method for determination of platelet-bound and plasma free serotonin.", "content": "A sensitive and specific fluorimetric assay for blood platelet-bound and plasma free serotonin is described. Serotonin is concentrated and purified on Amberlite CG-50 resin, eluted by 0.15 mol/l HCl and its native fluorescence is read at 295/350 nm. The good recovery (90% about), reproducibility and sensitivity (the smallest amount detectable is 5 ng) make the assay particularly useful for the detection of free serotonin in plasma. The whole procedure is rapid enough to permit the analysis of 15--20 samples within one working day and thus the method is suitable for routine determination of serotonin in biological specimens.", "contents": "A sensitive fluorimetric method for determination of platelet-bound and plasma free serotonin. A sensitive and specific fluorimetric assay for blood platelet-bound and plasma free serotonin is described. Serotonin is concentrated and purified on Amberlite CG-50 resin, eluted by 0.15 mol/l HCl and its native fluorescence is read at 295/350 nm. The good recovery (90% about), reproducibility and sensitivity (the smallest amount detectable is 5 ng) make the assay particularly useful for the detection of free serotonin in plasma. The whole procedure is rapid enough to permit the analysis of 15--20 samples within one working day and thus the method is suitable for routine determination of serotonin in biological specimens.", "PMID": 436276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3097", "title": "Calibration drift in the automated determination of calcium and magnesium by atomic absorption.", "content": "Calibration drift was studied in the automated on-line determination of calcium and magnesium by atomic absorption over periods of up to four hours. Automatic correlation for drift improved the precision of results.", "contents": "Calibration drift in the automated determination of calcium and magnesium by atomic absorption. Calibration drift was studied in the automated on-line determination of calcium and magnesium by atomic absorption over periods of up to four hours. Automatic correlation for drift improved the precision of results.", "PMID": 436277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3098", "title": "Urinary excretion of hydroxyproline, hydroxylysine and hydroxylysine glycosides by patients with Paget's disease of bone and carcinoma with metastases in bone.", "content": "Patient's with carcinoma metastases in bone and Pagent's disease of bone have different patterns of collagen metabolite excretion. Both forms of bone disease resulted in an increased excretion of total hydroxyproline and the ratio of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylsine to galactosylhydroxylysine was below normal. The excretion of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine and galactosylhydroxylysine was increased in all patients with carcinoma metastases in bone while the excretion of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine in patients with Paget's disease. The ratio of total hydroxylysine (free hydroxylysine + glycosylated hydroxylysines) to total hydroxyproline was normal in patients with carcinoma metastases in bone and below normal in patients with Paget's disease bosne. The pattern of urinary collagen metabolite excretion is a more specific indicator of the presence of bone disease than is the measurement of the excretion rate of any individual collagen metabolite. Bone diseases of different etiologies may result in different patterns of urinary collagen metabolite excretion.", "contents": "Urinary excretion of hydroxyproline, hydroxylysine and hydroxylysine glycosides by patients with Paget's disease of bone and carcinoma with metastases in bone. Patient's with carcinoma metastases in bone and Pagent's disease of bone have different patterns of collagen metabolite excretion. Both forms of bone disease resulted in an increased excretion of total hydroxyproline and the ratio of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylsine to galactosylhydroxylysine was below normal. The excretion of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine and galactosylhydroxylysine was increased in all patients with carcinoma metastases in bone while the excretion of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine in patients with Paget's disease. The ratio of total hydroxylysine (free hydroxylysine + glycosylated hydroxylysines) to total hydroxyproline was normal in patients with carcinoma metastases in bone and below normal in patients with Paget's disease bosne. The pattern of urinary collagen metabolite excretion is a more specific indicator of the presence of bone disease than is the measurement of the excretion rate of any individual collagen metabolite. Bone diseases of different etiologies may result in different patterns of urinary collagen metabolite excretion.", "PMID": 436278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3099", "title": "Reflux of billiary components into blood in experimental intrahepatic cholestasis induced in rats by treatment with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate.", "content": "The sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate, an agent reported to cause intrahepatic cholestasis, and of rats treated with carbon tetrachloride, are examined for evidence of leakage of bile into blood. The levels of the four bile components assayed, namely IgA, free IgA secretory component, the biliary isoenzyme of 5'-nucleotidase and of direct reacting (conjugated) bilirubin, were all elevated in the sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate. No change in any of these components was found in rats treated with carbon tetrachloride, indicating that their appearance in serum is not an inevitable consequence of damage to hepatocytes. As the bile components assayed reach bile by three different routes. their rapid appearance in the sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate indicates reflux of bile into blood, presumably as a result of mechanical obstruction of intraheptic bile ducts.", "contents": "Reflux of billiary components into blood in experimental intrahepatic cholestasis induced in rats by treatment with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate. The sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate, an agent reported to cause intrahepatic cholestasis, and of rats treated with carbon tetrachloride, are examined for evidence of leakage of bile into blood. The levels of the four bile components assayed, namely IgA, free IgA secretory component, the biliary isoenzyme of 5'-nucleotidase and of direct reacting (conjugated) bilirubin, were all elevated in the sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate. No change in any of these components was found in rats treated with carbon tetrachloride, indicating that their appearance in serum is not an inevitable consequence of damage to hepatocytes. As the bile components assayed reach bile by three different routes. their rapid appearance in the sera of rats treated with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate indicates reflux of bile into blood, presumably as a result of mechanical obstruction of intraheptic bile ducts.", "PMID": 436279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3100", "title": "Appearance of creatine kinase BB isoenzyme in the serum of a patient suffering from infarction of the colon.", "content": "A case is described of multiple pathologies which was associated with very high levels of total serum creatine kinase activity. Electrophoretic analysis showed the circulating enzyme to be made up of all three isoenzyme fractions; MM, MB and BB. Acute necrosis of a portion of large intestine seems the most likely explanation for the transient appearance of the BB fraction. The implications of these findings with regard to creatine kinase isoenzyme analysis techniques are discussed.", "contents": "Appearance of creatine kinase BB isoenzyme in the serum of a patient suffering from infarction of the colon. A case is described of multiple pathologies which was associated with very high levels of total serum creatine kinase activity. Electrophoretic analysis showed the circulating enzyme to be made up of all three isoenzyme fractions; MM, MB and BB. Acute necrosis of a portion of large intestine seems the most likely explanation for the transient appearance of the BB fraction. The implications of these findings with regard to creatine kinase isoenzyme analysis techniques are discussed.", "PMID": 436281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3101", "title": "Factors in the choice of detergent in automated oestriol estimation.", "content": "Detergent must be added to the strongly acidic Kober reagent to obtain reproducible and well separated peaks in continuous flow analytical methods for oestriol in pregnancy urine. Brij 35 and other polyether detergents are not satisfactory because they or their impurities interfere in the reaction causing high blank response in colorimetric reactions and diminished fluorescence responses. In a single phase fluorometric method these detergents also caused turbidity or phase separation in the solution which passed through the fluorometer. Some anionic sulphate and sulphonate detergents were also unsatisfactory being immiscible with Kober reagent. Selected cationic and betaine detergents are shown to be possible alternatives, although one which is satisfactory in the kober reagent may be unsuitable for a dilution reagent. The betaine Empigen BB was found to be suitable for inclusion in both of these reagents.", "contents": "Factors in the choice of detergent in automated oestriol estimation. Detergent must be added to the strongly acidic Kober reagent to obtain reproducible and well separated peaks in continuous flow analytical methods for oestriol in pregnancy urine. Brij 35 and other polyether detergents are not satisfactory because they or their impurities interfere in the reaction causing high blank response in colorimetric reactions and diminished fluorescence responses. In a single phase fluorometric method these detergents also caused turbidity or phase separation in the solution which passed through the fluorometer. Some anionic sulphate and sulphonate detergents were also unsatisfactory being immiscible with Kober reagent. Selected cationic and betaine detergents are shown to be possible alternatives, although one which is satisfactory in the kober reagent may be unsuitable for a dilution reagent. The betaine Empigen BB was found to be suitable for inclusion in both of these reagents.", "PMID": 436282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3102", "title": "Peptide analysis as amino alcohols by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Application to hyperoligopeptiduria. Detection of Gly-3Hyp-4Hyp and Gly-Pro-4Hyp-Gly.", "content": "A method for the qualitative analysis of oligopeptides in human urine in cases of peptiduria is described. After sample precleaning on a strongly acidic ion exchanger, the trifluoroacetyl/methyl esters were formed and the peptide derivatives were transformed into trifluoroethyl oligoamino alcohols according to Nau and Biemann. It was found that oligoamino alcohols could be isolated selectively on a weakly acidic ion exchanger. The O-trimethylsilylated trifluoroethyl oligoamino alcohols were separated on a SE-30 glass capillary column and analyzed by computer-assisted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In order to increase specificity and to facilitate mass spectrometric interpretation, aliquots of the sample were reduced separately with lithium-aluminium deuteride and hydride. Each peptide gave a pair of derivatives with characteristic mass differences of the ions, namely 2 mass units per reduced oxo group (deuterium-hydrogen-labelling of oxo groups by reduction). Correct identification is assumed only if both mass spectral patterns fit the theory. Sample volumes of 5--100 ml of urine are needed. About six samples can be derivatized per week. Three cases with suspected peptiduria were investigated and the following peptides were found: Gly-Pro-4Hyp-Gly; Gly-Pro-4Hyp; Gly-Hyp-Hyp (postulated isomer Gly-3Hyp-4Hyp); Pro-4Hyp and Gly-Pro. With exception of the tetrapeptide, these compounds could be detected also in the urine of a healthy child.", "contents": "Peptide analysis as amino alcohols by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Application to hyperoligopeptiduria. Detection of Gly-3Hyp-4Hyp and Gly-Pro-4Hyp-Gly. A method for the qualitative analysis of oligopeptides in human urine in cases of peptiduria is described. After sample precleaning on a strongly acidic ion exchanger, the trifluoroacetyl/methyl esters were formed and the peptide derivatives were transformed into trifluoroethyl oligoamino alcohols according to Nau and Biemann. It was found that oligoamino alcohols could be isolated selectively on a weakly acidic ion exchanger. The O-trimethylsilylated trifluoroethyl oligoamino alcohols were separated on a SE-30 glass capillary column and analyzed by computer-assisted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In order to increase specificity and to facilitate mass spectrometric interpretation, aliquots of the sample were reduced separately with lithium-aluminium deuteride and hydride. Each peptide gave a pair of derivatives with characteristic mass differences of the ions, namely 2 mass units per reduced oxo group (deuterium-hydrogen-labelling of oxo groups by reduction). Correct identification is assumed only if both mass spectral patterns fit the theory. Sample volumes of 5--100 ml of urine are needed. About six samples can be derivatized per week. Three cases with suspected peptiduria were investigated and the following peptides were found: Gly-Pro-4Hyp-Gly; Gly-Pro-4Hyp; Gly-Hyp-Hyp (postulated isomer Gly-3Hyp-4Hyp); Pro-4Hyp and Gly-Pro. With exception of the tetrapeptide, these compounds could be detected also in the urine of a healthy child.", "PMID": 436283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3103", "title": "Serum and urine N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in diabetics on diagnosis and subsequent treatment, and stable insulin dependent diabetics.", "content": "N-Acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity has been measured in the serum and urine of diabetics. Results have shown significantly higher levels of serum NAG in newly diagnosed diabetics (945 +/- 372 units/ml) compared to non-diabetic controll (668 +/- 225, p less than 0.005) and the levels were reduced by treatment (778 +/- 218, p less than 0.05). Changes occurred in the same direction when urinary NAG was measured falling from a mean of 572 +/- 298 units/mg urinary creatinine, on diagnosis to 291 +/- 176 after treatment (p less than 0.005), as compared with 177 +/- 86 in non-diabetic controls. Established insulin-treated diabetics had a urinary NAG activity of 461 +/- 440 and a serum NAG activity of 790 +/- 245. No correlation was found between urine NAG activity and urine glucose (r = 0.315), or serum NAG and serum glucose (r = 0.273). An assessment of this enzyme is made in relation to early microangiopathy.", "contents": "Serum and urine N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in diabetics on diagnosis and subsequent treatment, and stable insulin dependent diabetics. N-Acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity has been measured in the serum and urine of diabetics. Results have shown significantly higher levels of serum NAG in newly diagnosed diabetics (945 +/- 372 units/ml) compared to non-diabetic controll (668 +/- 225, p less than 0.005) and the levels were reduced by treatment (778 +/- 218, p less than 0.05). Changes occurred in the same direction when urinary NAG was measured falling from a mean of 572 +/- 298 units/mg urinary creatinine, on diagnosis to 291 +/- 176 after treatment (p less than 0.005), as compared with 177 +/- 86 in non-diabetic controls. Established insulin-treated diabetics had a urinary NAG activity of 461 +/- 440 and a serum NAG activity of 790 +/- 245. No correlation was found between urine NAG activity and urine glucose (r = 0.315), or serum NAG and serum glucose (r = 0.273). An assessment of this enzyme is made in relation to early microangiopathy.", "PMID": 436284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3104", "title": "An automated amidolytic assay of thrombin generation: an alternative for the prothrombin-time test.", "content": "An automated method is presented for the determination of thrombin generation in plasma during activation by thromboplastin. The thrombin generated is allowed to split the chromogenic substrate Tol-Gly-Pro-Arg-pNA yielding p-nitroaniline. The increase in absorbance at 410 nm is recorded. This assay may serve as a specific, precise and fast alternative for the conventional clotting tests: \"Prothrombin time\" and \"Thrombotest\".", "contents": "An automated amidolytic assay of thrombin generation: an alternative for the prothrombin-time test. An automated method is presented for the determination of thrombin generation in plasma during activation by thromboplastin. The thrombin generated is allowed to split the chromogenic substrate Tol-Gly-Pro-Arg-pNA yielding p-nitroaniline. The increase in absorbance at 410 nm is recorded. This assay may serve as a specific, precise and fast alternative for the conventional clotting tests: \"Prothrombin time\" and \"Thrombotest\".", "PMID": 436285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3105", "title": "Leucocyte and erythrocyte magnesium levels after jejuno-ileal bypass surgery.", "content": "Leucocyte magnesium concentration was measured in 25 hypomagnesaemic patients following a jejuno-ilean bypass operation for gross obesity. The mean plasma magnesium concentration in the bypass group was 0.67 mmol/l compared with that of 0.90 mmol/l in a group of 17 healthy volunteers, but the leucocyte magnesium concentration in the two groups was not significantly different. The plasma potassium was found to be significantly lower in the bypass group but there was no significant difference in the leucocyte potassium concentration in the two groups. Simultaneous measurements of erythrocyte magnesium, sodium and potassium were made. There was no evidence of intracellular magnesium depletion on the basis of the tissues studied.", "contents": "Leucocyte and erythrocyte magnesium levels after jejuno-ileal bypass surgery. Leucocyte magnesium concentration was measured in 25 hypomagnesaemic patients following a jejuno-ilean bypass operation for gross obesity. The mean plasma magnesium concentration in the bypass group was 0.67 mmol/l compared with that of 0.90 mmol/l in a group of 17 healthy volunteers, but the leucocyte magnesium concentration in the two groups was not significantly different. The plasma potassium was found to be significantly lower in the bypass group but there was no significant difference in the leucocyte potassium concentration in the two groups. Simultaneous measurements of erythrocyte magnesium, sodium and potassium were made. There was no evidence of intracellular magnesium depletion on the basis of the tissues studied.", "PMID": 436286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3106", "title": "A fluorescent artefact resembling BB-creatine kinase in sera of patients with prostatic disease.", "content": "A fluorescent zone with mobility towards the anode almost equal to that of human BB-creatine kinase has been detected after electrophoresis on cellulose acetate of sera from each of 28 patients with prostatic carcinoma. The zone is not due to the BB isoenzyme and its appearance does not depend on the presence of substrates of creatine kinase. It therefore appears to be a further example of a fluorescent artefact resembling a creatine kinase ieoenzyme. These observations indicate a need for caution in assessing the possible value of BB-creatine kinase in patients with prostatic disease.", "contents": "A fluorescent artefact resembling BB-creatine kinase in sera of patients with prostatic disease. A fluorescent zone with mobility towards the anode almost equal to that of human BB-creatine kinase has been detected after electrophoresis on cellulose acetate of sera from each of 28 patients with prostatic carcinoma. The zone is not due to the BB isoenzyme and its appearance does not depend on the presence of substrates of creatine kinase. It therefore appears to be a further example of a fluorescent artefact resembling a creatine kinase ieoenzyme. These observations indicate a need for caution in assessing the possible value of BB-creatine kinase in patients with prostatic disease.", "PMID": 436287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3107", "title": "A deletion mutation in glucosephosphate isomerase (GPI Denton).", "content": "A new genetic variant form of glucosephosphate isomerase has been found in a family heterozygous for the mutant allele. The mutant enzyme, unlike other phenotypic variants, does not appear to be the result of a single amino acid replacement. The allozyme exhibits an isoelectric point of 5.7 and is thus much more acidic than the normal enzyme (pI = 9.3). The allozyme has been isolated from placenta and separated from the normal homodimer and heterodimer by isoelectric focusing. The enzyme exhibits normal Km and Ki values for the substrates and competitive inhibitors. The allozyme exhibits a normal pH optimum and thermal stability. However, the molecular specific activity of the variant enzyme as quantitated by radioimmunoassay is significantly lower than normal. Analytical gel filtration revealed that the molecular weight of the weight of the enzyme is significantly lower than the normal enzyme. These data thus suggest that the phenotype is unlike any previously reported and is due to a deletion mutation.", "contents": "A deletion mutation in glucosephosphate isomerase (GPI Denton). A new genetic variant form of glucosephosphate isomerase has been found in a family heterozygous for the mutant allele. The mutant enzyme, unlike other phenotypic variants, does not appear to be the result of a single amino acid replacement. The allozyme exhibits an isoelectric point of 5.7 and is thus much more acidic than the normal enzyme (pI = 9.3). The allozyme has been isolated from placenta and separated from the normal homodimer and heterodimer by isoelectric focusing. The enzyme exhibits normal Km and Ki values for the substrates and competitive inhibitors. The allozyme exhibits a normal pH optimum and thermal stability. However, the molecular specific activity of the variant enzyme as quantitated by radioimmunoassay is significantly lower than normal. Analytical gel filtration revealed that the molecular weight of the weight of the enzyme is significantly lower than the normal enzyme. These data thus suggest that the phenotype is unlike any previously reported and is due to a deletion mutation.", "PMID": 436288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3108", "title": "Determination of total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum.", "content": "The usual techniques for determination to total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum involving liquid-solid extraction of the bile acids with the adsorbent XAD-2 and fluorimetric measurement of NADH generated from the reaction with a NAD-linked 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase are evaluated and improved. The influence of different types of enzyme preparations on the results is examined. The results with the improved technique are compared to the results obtained with another method, avoiding extraction of the bile acids before the enzymatic reaction which is followed by fluorimetric measurement of resorufin, produced by transfer of the hydrogen of the generated NADH by diaphorase to resazurin. No significant difference between the results with the two types of methods was found. The concentration of total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum of 46 fasting 'healthy' individuals aged 17 to 82 years is estimated. 30 were females, of whom 10 were taking estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, and 16 were males. Mean +/- standard deviation in all the females was 3.0 +/- 1.1 micromol/l, and in the males 4.0 +/- 1.9 micromol/l. There was no significant difference between any of the groups.", "contents": "Determination of total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum. The usual techniques for determination to total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum involving liquid-solid extraction of the bile acids with the adsorbent XAD-2 and fluorimetric measurement of NADH generated from the reaction with a NAD-linked 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase are evaluated and improved. The influence of different types of enzyme preparations on the results is examined. The results with the improved technique are compared to the results obtained with another method, avoiding extraction of the bile acids before the enzymatic reaction which is followed by fluorimetric measurement of resorufin, produced by transfer of the hydrogen of the generated NADH by diaphorase to resazurin. No significant difference between the results with the two types of methods was found. The concentration of total 3 alpha-hydroxy bile acids in serum of 46 fasting 'healthy' individuals aged 17 to 82 years is estimated. 30 were females, of whom 10 were taking estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, and 16 were males. Mean +/- standard deviation in all the females was 3.0 +/- 1.1 micromol/l, and in the males 4.0 +/- 1.9 micromol/l. There was no significant difference between any of the groups.", "PMID": 436289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3109", "title": "Placental type of membrane-bound arylamidase (Shiba isoenzyme) found in human cancerous lung.", "content": "A placental type of membrane-bound arylamidase (Shiba isoenzyme) was found in the tissue of adenocarcinoma of the lung. Cancerous lung membrane-bound arylamidase had the same electrophoretic mobility, isoelectric point (pH 4.2), and susceptibility to SDS inactivation as placental membrane-bound arylamidase. Cancerous lung membrane-bound arylamidase had molecular weight and kinetic properties similar to normal lung membrane-bound arylamidase, but differed from the normal lung membrane-bound arylamidase with respect to electrophoretic mobility, isoelectric point, heat stability and inactivation by SDS.", "contents": "Placental type of membrane-bound arylamidase (Shiba isoenzyme) found in human cancerous lung. A placental type of membrane-bound arylamidase (Shiba isoenzyme) was found in the tissue of adenocarcinoma of the lung. Cancerous lung membrane-bound arylamidase had the same electrophoretic mobility, isoelectric point (pH 4.2), and susceptibility to SDS inactivation as placental membrane-bound arylamidase. Cancerous lung membrane-bound arylamidase had molecular weight and kinetic properties similar to normal lung membrane-bound arylamidase, but differed from the normal lung membrane-bound arylamidase with respect to electrophoretic mobility, isoelectric point, heat stability and inactivation by SDS.", "PMID": 436290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3110", "title": "Changes in type of collagen during the development of human post-burn hypertrophic scars.", "content": "Neutral-salt soluble collagen was relatively abundant in young post-burn hypertrophic scars. The content of insoluble collagen was fairly low in granulation tissues, whereas it gradually increased over 2 years and reached a significantly higher value than that in normal skins. Interrupted gel electrophoresis was carried out to estimate the relative proportions of type III and type I collagens in the pepsin digests of human normal skins and post-burn scars. Granulation tissues showed an abnormally higher ratio of type III to type I (0.37--0.72) than the mean value of normal skins (0.17 +/- 0.04 (S.D.)). The ratio gradually decreased to the normal range after 2 years or so.", "contents": "Changes in type of collagen during the development of human post-burn hypertrophic scars. Neutral-salt soluble collagen was relatively abundant in young post-burn hypertrophic scars. The content of insoluble collagen was fairly low in granulation tissues, whereas it gradually increased over 2 years and reached a significantly higher value than that in normal skins. Interrupted gel electrophoresis was carried out to estimate the relative proportions of type III and type I collagens in the pepsin digests of human normal skins and post-burn scars. Granulation tissues showed an abnormally higher ratio of type III to type I (0.37--0.72) than the mean value of normal skins (0.17 +/- 0.04 (S.D.)). The ratio gradually decreased to the normal range after 2 years or so.", "PMID": 436291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3111", "title": "The preparation of 125I-labelled bile acid ligands for use in the radioimmunoassay of bile acids.", "content": "A general method for the preparation of 125I-labelled bile acid-histamine or 125I-labelled bile acid-tyramine conjugates is presented. The method is simple, quick and produces ligands in good yield (30%). The characteristics of a radioimmunoassay for conjugated chenodeoxycholic acid, based on an 125I-labelled ligand prepared by the method, are also described. The assay produced values for fasting serum concentrations of conjugated chenodeoxycholic acid that agree well with previous data.", "contents": "The preparation of 125I-labelled bile acid ligands for use in the radioimmunoassay of bile acids. A general method for the preparation of 125I-labelled bile acid-histamine or 125I-labelled bile acid-tyramine conjugates is presented. The method is simple, quick and produces ligands in good yield (30%). The characteristics of a radioimmunoassay for conjugated chenodeoxycholic acid, based on an 125I-labelled ligand prepared by the method, are also described. The assay produced values for fasting serum concentrations of conjugated chenodeoxycholic acid that agree well with previous data.", "PMID": 436292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3112", "title": "Decreased cerebrospinal fluid concentration of free phenylacetic acid in depressive illness.", "content": "Cerebrospinal fluid free phenylacetic acid concentration in a series of depressive patients was significantly lower than values in control subjects. This acid derives from phenylethylamine and the findings may reflect a decrease in its brain formation. Such a deficit may be related to other recent observations of a decrease in urinary output of the major metabolites of the \"trace amines\", octopamine and tyramine: phenylethylamine is thought to be the precursor of these \"trace amines\".", "contents": "Decreased cerebrospinal fluid concentration of free phenylacetic acid in depressive illness. Cerebrospinal fluid free phenylacetic acid concentration in a series of depressive patients was significantly lower than values in control subjects. This acid derives from phenylethylamine and the findings may reflect a decrease in its brain formation. Such a deficit may be related to other recent observations of a decrease in urinary output of the major metabolites of the \"trace amines\", octopamine and tyramine: phenylethylamine is thought to be the precursor of these \"trace amines\".", "PMID": 436296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3113", "title": "Distribution of serum concentrations of creatine kinase MM and BB isoenzymes measured by radioimmunoassay.", "content": "Because of the recent interest in measuring serum enzyme concentration as opposed to catalytic activity, we measured the serum concentration of creatine kinase isoenzymes BB and MM by radioimmunoassay and the total creatine kinase enzymatic activity in healthy adults. For sex-race subgroups we report mean values and the 2.5, 5, 25, 50, 75, 90, 95 and 97.5 percentiles. Differences among average values of the subgroups were highly significant. Results within subgroups frequently departed from a gaussian distribution.", "contents": "Distribution of serum concentrations of creatine kinase MM and BB isoenzymes measured by radioimmunoassay. Because of the recent interest in measuring serum enzyme concentration as opposed to catalytic activity, we measured the serum concentration of creatine kinase isoenzymes BB and MM by radioimmunoassay and the total creatine kinase enzymatic activity in healthy adults. For sex-race subgroups we report mean values and the 2.5, 5, 25, 50, 75, 90, 95 and 97.5 percentiles. Differences among average values of the subgroups were highly significant. Results within subgroups frequently departed from a gaussian distribution.", "PMID": 436297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3114", "title": "Increased CK-BB concentrations in serum following cardiac surgery.", "content": "We measured the BB isoenzyme of creatine kinase by a specific radioimmunoassay in the serum of 47 patients following cardiac surgery. A sharp increase in CK-BB occurred immediately after surgery, with rapid return to baseline by the fourth post-operative day. This data, along with other reports in the literature, suggest that CK-BB is released into the circulation following myocardial insult.", "contents": "Increased CK-BB concentrations in serum following cardiac surgery. We measured the BB isoenzyme of creatine kinase by a specific radioimmunoassay in the serum of 47 patients following cardiac surgery. A sharp increase in CK-BB occurred immediately after surgery, with rapid return to baseline by the fourth post-operative day. This data, along with other reports in the literature, suggest that CK-BB is released into the circulation following myocardial insult.", "PMID": 436298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3115", "title": "[Determination of lysozyme in biological fluids by a semi-automatic kinetic technique. Discussion of the method (author's transl)].", "content": "A rapid and semi-automatic determination of lysozyme in biological fluids using kinetic analysis and turbidimetry is described and compared to other commonly used techniques. The specificity of the method is satisfactory while that of clarification of a gel medium is apparently not. Normal values and standard errors for plasma, urine, and leucocytes are given. A standardised expression of lysozyme activity is proposed and discussed. The importance of the means by which the blood sample is collected and prepared is underlined: plasma, decanted soon after collection, is preferable to serum.", "contents": "[Determination of lysozyme in biological fluids by a semi-automatic kinetic technique. Discussion of the method (author's transl)]. A rapid and semi-automatic determination of lysozyme in biological fluids using kinetic analysis and turbidimetry is described and compared to other commonly used techniques. The specificity of the method is satisfactory while that of clarification of a gel medium is apparently not. Normal values and standard errors for plasma, urine, and leucocytes are given. A standardised expression of lysozyme activity is proposed and discussed. The importance of the means by which the blood sample is collected and prepared is underlined: plasma, decanted soon after collection, is preferable to serum.", "PMID": 436299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3116", "title": "Significance of the electrophoretic modifications of defective pyruvate kinase variants. Study of six new observations.", "content": "Six new defective pyruvate kinase variants have been characterized in patients suffering from chronic hemolysis. Partially purified enzyme variants exhibited various anomalies from immunological, kinetic, stability and electrophoretic points of view. The significance of the electrophoretic anomalies has been interpreted in view of the normal post-synthetic maturation of the precursor enzyme L'4 into L2L'2 and L4, and the ability of trypsin to induce in vitro the transition L'4 leads to L4 has been tested. One defective enzyme existed in a single L'4 form and could not be transformed by trypsin into L4. In three cases slow-moving L'4 and L2L'2 forms were transformed by trypsin into an abnormal slow-moving L4 form. In the last two observations the L'4 and L2L'2 forms exhibited normal mobility and were normally transformed by trypsin into L4. The relevance of these data to the functional anomalies of the defective variants and to the nature of the primary genetic anomaly giving rise to the congenital defects in erythrocyte pyruvate kinase is discussed.", "contents": "Significance of the electrophoretic modifications of defective pyruvate kinase variants. Study of six new observations. Six new defective pyruvate kinase variants have been characterized in patients suffering from chronic hemolysis. Partially purified enzyme variants exhibited various anomalies from immunological, kinetic, stability and electrophoretic points of view. The significance of the electrophoretic anomalies has been interpreted in view of the normal post-synthetic maturation of the precursor enzyme L'4 into L2L'2 and L4, and the ability of trypsin to induce in vitro the transition L'4 leads to L4 has been tested. One defective enzyme existed in a single L'4 form and could not be transformed by trypsin into L4. In three cases slow-moving L'4 and L2L'2 forms were transformed by trypsin into an abnormal slow-moving L4 form. In the last two observations the L'4 and L2L'2 forms exhibited normal mobility and were normally transformed by trypsin into L4. The relevance of these data to the functional anomalies of the defective variants and to the nature of the primary genetic anomaly giving rise to the congenital defects in erythrocyte pyruvate kinase is discussed.", "PMID": 436300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3117", "title": "Acetylcholinesterase activity and its molecular forms in rectal tissue in the diagnosis of Hirsprung's disease.", "content": "Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and its molecular forms in the rectal tissue in Hirsprung's disease were studied. Total AChE activity was increased in Hirsprung's disease; the activity was separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis into two molecular forms. The AChE form with higher electrophoretic mobility was not observed in healthy children, and it might be of diagnostic importance in this disease.", "contents": "Acetylcholinesterase activity and its molecular forms in rectal tissue in the diagnosis of Hirsprung's disease. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and its molecular forms in the rectal tissue in Hirsprung's disease were studied. Total AChE activity was increased in Hirsprung's disease; the activity was separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis into two molecular forms. The AChE form with higher electrophoretic mobility was not observed in healthy children, and it might be of diagnostic importance in this disease.", "PMID": 436301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3118", "title": "L-thyroxine treatment of diffuse non-toxic goitre evaluated by ultrasonic determination of thyroid volume.", "content": "The effect of a daily dose of 150 micrograms l-thyroxine for one year was studied in forty-five patients with diffuse non-toxic goitre. Thyroid volume was evaluated by ultrasonic scanning. A decrease in the median value of the thyroid volume of about 20% was found after 3 months of therapy and no further change in the median value was observed in the following 9 months of treatment. About 50% of the patients showed a response to therapy and about 30% obtained normal size of the thyroid gland. Median value of the thyroid volume returned to pretreatment value 3 months after thyroxine therapy was stopped. A considerable increase in serum T4 and free T4 index was noted after 3 months of therapy and these elevated values persisted unaltered during the following 9 months of treatment. Serum T3 was studied before and after 3 months of thyroxine therapy in eleven of the patients. A small and insignificant increase in serum T3 and free T3 index was observed.", "contents": "L-thyroxine treatment of diffuse non-toxic goitre evaluated by ultrasonic determination of thyroid volume. The effect of a daily dose of 150 micrograms l-thyroxine for one year was studied in forty-five patients with diffuse non-toxic goitre. Thyroid volume was evaluated by ultrasonic scanning. A decrease in the median value of the thyroid volume of about 20% was found after 3 months of therapy and no further change in the median value was observed in the following 9 months of treatment. About 50% of the patients showed a response to therapy and about 30% obtained normal size of the thyroid gland. Median value of the thyroid volume returned to pretreatment value 3 months after thyroxine therapy was stopped. A considerable increase in serum T4 and free T4 index was noted after 3 months of therapy and these elevated values persisted unaltered during the following 9 months of treatment. Serum T3 was studied before and after 3 months of thyroxine therapy in eleven of the patients. A small and insignificant increase in serum T3 and free T3 index was observed.", "PMID": 436302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3119", "title": "Serum thyroglobulin in the diagnosis and management of thyroid carcinoma.", "content": "Serum thyroglobulin (Tg) was measured by radioimmunoassay in sixty-two control subjects, 163 euthyroid patients with nodular goitre and eighty-one patients with previously treated differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Tg was elevated in 65% of nodular goitres and failed to fall with thyroxine treatment in ten/fifteen patients treated. A diagnosis of differentiated carcinoma was confirmed in fourteen/sixty-four of these patients and Tg was elevated in twelve. Of sixty-five treated thyroid carcinoma patients without evidence of residual tumour, serum Tg was undetectable in thirty-nine, normal in twenty-four and elevated in two. There was evidence of residual tissue in the thyroid in seventeen of the patients with detectable Tg. Of the sixteen patients with residual tumour or metastases Tg was elevated in fifteen. There was a positive correlation between goitre size and Tg levels in multinodular goitre, and thyroid carcinomas of large bulk were associated with higher Tg levels. Serum Tg was normal in medullary carcinoma and in two patients with thyroid metastases from extra-thyroidal malignancies. High Tg levels in patients with residual metastases from thyroid carcinoma following thyroid ablation indicates Tg production by tumour tissue. Measurement of serum Tg of limited value in the differential diagnosis of nodular thyroid disease. It is particularly useful following surgery and 131I therapy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma. In these patients it gives confirmation of thyroid albation and may provide evidence of residual tumour tissue when the other tests are negative.", "contents": "Serum thyroglobulin in the diagnosis and management of thyroid carcinoma. Serum thyroglobulin (Tg) was measured by radioimmunoassay in sixty-two control subjects, 163 euthyroid patients with nodular goitre and eighty-one patients with previously treated differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Tg was elevated in 65% of nodular goitres and failed to fall with thyroxine treatment in ten/fifteen patients treated. A diagnosis of differentiated carcinoma was confirmed in fourteen/sixty-four of these patients and Tg was elevated in twelve. Of sixty-five treated thyroid carcinoma patients without evidence of residual tumour, serum Tg was undetectable in thirty-nine, normal in twenty-four and elevated in two. There was evidence of residual tissue in the thyroid in seventeen of the patients with detectable Tg. Of the sixteen patients with residual tumour or metastases Tg was elevated in fifteen. There was a positive correlation between goitre size and Tg levels in multinodular goitre, and thyroid carcinomas of large bulk were associated with higher Tg levels. Serum Tg was normal in medullary carcinoma and in two patients with thyroid metastases from extra-thyroidal malignancies. High Tg levels in patients with residual metastases from thyroid carcinoma following thyroid ablation indicates Tg production by tumour tissue. Measurement of serum Tg of limited value in the differential diagnosis of nodular thyroid disease. It is particularly useful following surgery and 131I therapy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma. In these patients it gives confirmation of thyroid albation and may provide evidence of residual tumour tissue when the other tests are negative.", "PMID": 436303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3120", "title": "Plasma levels of norethindrone after single oral dose administration of norethindrone and lynestrenol.", "content": "Single oral doses of 0.3 mg, 0.5 mg and 5 mg Norethindrone (NET) and 0.5 mg and 5 mg Lynestrenol (lyn) were given to five women. Lynestrenol is probably metabolized through NET and exerts its main biological activity as NET. Plasma concentrations of NET were determined by a radioimmunoassay at different intervals after administration of the tablets. Peak concentrations of NET were found within two hours after intake of each table. The plasma half life of Net after NET and lyn administration for the period 8-24 h was 8-11 h. No significant difference was found between the half life of NET and the NET tablets and after the lyn tablets. When 5 mg NET was given the plasma half life of NET for the period 24-72 h was around 10 h and this was significantly shorter than the half-life of NET after 5 mg lyn, which was 16 1/2 h. The systemic availability of the drugs was estimated by calculating and comparing the areas under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC). 0-24 H. The AUC 0.24 after 0.3 MG NET was almost identical to the AUC 0.24 after 0.5 mg lyn. The AUC 0-24 after 0.5 mg NET was significantly larger than after 0.5 lyn. No difference was found between the AUC 0-24 after 5 mg lyn and 5 mg NET. This study supports the concept of a conversion from lyn to NET. It also shows that there were only minor pharmacokinetic differences between the drugs when all samples were measured as NET.", "contents": "Plasma levels of norethindrone after single oral dose administration of norethindrone and lynestrenol. Single oral doses of 0.3 mg, 0.5 mg and 5 mg Norethindrone (NET) and 0.5 mg and 5 mg Lynestrenol (lyn) were given to five women. Lynestrenol is probably metabolized through NET and exerts its main biological activity as NET. Plasma concentrations of NET were determined by a radioimmunoassay at different intervals after administration of the tablets. Peak concentrations of NET were found within two hours after intake of each table. The plasma half life of Net after NET and lyn administration for the period 8-24 h was 8-11 h. No significant difference was found between the half life of NET and the NET tablets and after the lyn tablets. When 5 mg NET was given the plasma half life of NET for the period 24-72 h was around 10 h and this was significantly shorter than the half-life of NET after 5 mg lyn, which was 16 1/2 h. The systemic availability of the drugs was estimated by calculating and comparing the areas under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC). 0-24 H. The AUC 0.24 after 0.3 MG NET was almost identical to the AUC 0.24 after 0.5 mg lyn. The AUC 0-24 after 0.5 mg NET was significantly larger than after 0.5 lyn. No difference was found between the AUC 0-24 after 5 mg lyn and 5 mg NET. This study supports the concept of a conversion from lyn to NET. It also shows that there were only minor pharmacokinetic differences between the drugs when all samples were measured as NET.", "PMID": 436304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3121", "title": "The effect of sulpiride induced hyperprolactinaemia on glucose tolerance and insulin secretion in normal subjects.", "content": "Blood glucose concentration and insulin secretion expressed by peripheral plasma insulin (IRI) and C-peptide levels were measured during saline and sulpiride infusion in five normal men. In another experiment the same variables were analysed in six normal males before and during oral sulpiride treatment for 5 days. The i.v. and oral administration of sulpiride resulted in a significant rise in serum prolactin levels. The stimulated serum prolactin concentrations were equivalent to those seen during stress. The sulpiride induced hyperprolactinaemia did not change blood-glucose, plasma IRI levels, hepatic insulin removal and glucose utilization during basal conditions or after i.v. glucose administration.", "contents": "The effect of sulpiride induced hyperprolactinaemia on glucose tolerance and insulin secretion in normal subjects. Blood glucose concentration and insulin secretion expressed by peripheral plasma insulin (IRI) and C-peptide levels were measured during saline and sulpiride infusion in five normal men. In another experiment the same variables were analysed in six normal males before and during oral sulpiride treatment for 5 days. The i.v. and oral administration of sulpiride resulted in a significant rise in serum prolactin levels. The stimulated serum prolactin concentrations were equivalent to those seen during stress. The sulpiride induced hyperprolactinaemia did not change blood-glucose, plasma IRI levels, hepatic insulin removal and glucose utilization during basal conditions or after i.v. glucose administration.", "PMID": 436305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3122", "title": "Standard dose 131I therapy for hyperthyroidism caused by autonomously functioning thyroid nodules.", "content": "Thirty-one patients with hyperthyroidism shown on scintigram to have autonomously functioning thyroid nodules were treated with a standard dose of 15 milliocuries (mCi) of 131I. Of thirty patients who have been followed up for a least 6 months to over 3 years, all but one patient were euthyroid after a single dose. Repeat scintigram and Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) test after therapy confirmed that twenty-five patients were cured of the disease. Only one patient developed hypothyroidism. This simplified standard dose regimen of radioiodine is effective in the treatment of hyperthyroidism caused by autonomously functioning nodules and is not complicated by the high incidence of hypothyroidism that is observed following radioiodine therapy of Graves' disease.", "contents": "Standard dose 131I therapy for hyperthyroidism caused by autonomously functioning thyroid nodules. Thirty-one patients with hyperthyroidism shown on scintigram to have autonomously functioning thyroid nodules were treated with a standard dose of 15 milliocuries (mCi) of 131I. Of thirty patients who have been followed up for a least 6 months to over 3 years, all but one patient were euthyroid after a single dose. Repeat scintigram and Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) test after therapy confirmed that twenty-five patients were cured of the disease. Only one patient developed hypothyroidism. This simplified standard dose regimen of radioiodine is effective in the treatment of hyperthyroidism caused by autonomously functioning nodules and is not complicated by the high incidence of hypothyroidism that is observed following radioiodine therapy of Graves' disease.", "PMID": 436306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3123", "title": "Dopamine is a physiological regulator of thyrotrophin (TSH) secretion in normal man.", "content": "Using a sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay for human TSH we have demonstrated significant elevations in serum TSH levels in euthyroid volunteers following administration of the dopamine receptor blocking drug metoclopramide when compared with placebo. The degree of TSH response is significantly greater in females than in males and is sustained over a 3-hour period after a single oral 10 mg dose of metoclopramide. The degree of TSH release after metoclopramide is inversely related to the basal TSH level suggesting that dopamine is a determinant of low daytime TSH levels and is thus implicated in the circadian rhythm of TSH secretion. Pretreatment with 10 mg of metoclopramide orally, one hour before TRH administration leads to significant enhancement of the TSH response to TRH. Our findings provide further evidence for the physiological inhibitory role of dopamine in the contol of TSH secretion in normal man. The possible mode of action of dopamine and the clinical implications of this neuroregulatory pathway are discussed.", "contents": "Dopamine is a physiological regulator of thyrotrophin (TSH) secretion in normal man. Using a sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay for human TSH we have demonstrated significant elevations in serum TSH levels in euthyroid volunteers following administration of the dopamine receptor blocking drug metoclopramide when compared with placebo. The degree of TSH response is significantly greater in females than in males and is sustained over a 3-hour period after a single oral 10 mg dose of metoclopramide. The degree of TSH release after metoclopramide is inversely related to the basal TSH level suggesting that dopamine is a determinant of low daytime TSH levels and is thus implicated in the circadian rhythm of TSH secretion. Pretreatment with 10 mg of metoclopramide orally, one hour before TRH administration leads to significant enhancement of the TSH response to TRH. Our findings provide further evidence for the physiological inhibitory role of dopamine in the contol of TSH secretion in normal man. The possible mode of action of dopamine and the clinical implications of this neuroregulatory pathway are discussed.", "PMID": 436307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3124", "title": "Inhibition of cimetidine-induced hyperprolactinaemia by pretreatment with levodopa or bromocriptine.", "content": "A single i.v. administration of cimetidine, an histamine receptor antagonist, produced a significant increase in serum prolactin (PRL) levels in fifteen normal men. This effect was suppressed by pretreatment with levodopa or bromocriptine.", "contents": "Inhibition of cimetidine-induced hyperprolactinaemia by pretreatment with levodopa or bromocriptine. A single i.v. administration of cimetidine, an histamine receptor antagonist, produced a significant increase in serum prolactin (PRL) levels in fifteen normal men. This effect was suppressed by pretreatment with levodopa or bromocriptine.", "PMID": 436308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3125", "title": "Platelet monoamine oxidase in a pedigree with schizophrenia: an interlaboratory project.", "content": "Conflicting reports on the association between platelet MAO activity and schizophrenia prompted a critical review and determinations on identical samples at one laboratory in Sweden and one in the U.S.A. Samples originated from eight schizophrenics and 27 relatives belonging to a large pedigree, thus ensuring biological homogeneity. In the USA laboratory, a significantly lower MAO activity was found in the schizophrenics when benzylamine or beta-phenylethylamine was used as substrate (but not with tryptamine), while a similar result was obtained in the Swedish laboratory when tryptamine was used (but not with benzylamine or beta-phenylethylamine). Comparisons between materials examined in different laboratories do not seem meaningful until differences in methodologies have been clarified. At present there is neither proof nor disproof of MAO being a \"genetic marker\" for vulnerability to the schizophrenic disorder.", "contents": "Platelet monoamine oxidase in a pedigree with schizophrenia: an interlaboratory project. Conflicting reports on the association between platelet MAO activity and schizophrenia prompted a critical review and determinations on identical samples at one laboratory in Sweden and one in the U.S.A. Samples originated from eight schizophrenics and 27 relatives belonging to a large pedigree, thus ensuring biological homogeneity. In the USA laboratory, a significantly lower MAO activity was found in the schizophrenics when benzylamine or beta-phenylethylamine was used as substrate (but not with tryptamine), while a similar result was obtained in the Swedish laboratory when tryptamine was used (but not with benzylamine or beta-phenylethylamine). Comparisons between materials examined in different laboratories do not seem meaningful until differences in methodologies have been clarified. At present there is neither proof nor disproof of MAO being a \"genetic marker\" for vulnerability to the schizophrenic disorder.", "PMID": 436326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3126", "title": "Analysis of family resemblance for lipids and lipoproteins.", "content": "A path analysis of published reports on family resemblance reveals an important role for genetic factors in all lipids and lipoproteins, with no evidence of a discrepancy between twins and other relatives (which might be due to dominance or epistasis) nor between studies which used environmental indices and those which did not. Family environment within population is less important and is significantly greater for twins than for other relatives.", "contents": "Analysis of family resemblance for lipids and lipoproteins. A path analysis of published reports on family resemblance reveals an important role for genetic factors in all lipids and lipoproteins, with no evidence of a discrepancy between twins and other relatives (which might be due to dominance or epistasis) nor between studies which used environmental indices and those which did not. Family environment within population is less important and is significantly greater for twins than for other relatives.", "PMID": 436327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3127", "title": "Benign sickle cell disease in Saudi Arabia: survival estimate and population dynamics.", "content": "A survey of 8,084 adult Saudi male employment applicants yielded 872 with the sickle cell trait (AS) and 51 with sickle cell disease. Based on the known distribution of hemoglobin S genes between oasis and non-oasis populations in Saudi Arabia, and on calculation of the expected number of abnormal homozygotes within the non-oasis and oasis subgroups as well as the entire employment applicant group, it appears that virtually 100% of Saudis with SS disease survive to adult life. Saudi Arabs and other Caucasian populations in the Middle East exhibit a benign type of SS disease as compared with Blacks in Africa and the Americas. In the Middle East, gene contributions from SS individuals will shift equilibrium frequencies to higher levels than encountered in Black populations under sustained selective pressures, and the polymorphism will tend to be stable with decline in selective pressure. There are some indications that the hemoglobin S gene may have been a recent import into the Middle East.", "contents": "Benign sickle cell disease in Saudi Arabia: survival estimate and population dynamics. A survey of 8,084 adult Saudi male employment applicants yielded 872 with the sickle cell trait (AS) and 51 with sickle cell disease. Based on the known distribution of hemoglobin S genes between oasis and non-oasis populations in Saudi Arabia, and on calculation of the expected number of abnormal homozygotes within the non-oasis and oasis subgroups as well as the entire employment applicant group, it appears that virtually 100% of Saudis with SS disease survive to adult life. Saudi Arabs and other Caucasian populations in the Middle East exhibit a benign type of SS disease as compared with Blacks in Africa and the Americas. In the Middle East, gene contributions from SS individuals will shift equilibrium frequencies to higher levels than encountered in Black populations under sustained selective pressures, and the polymorphism will tend to be stable with decline in selective pressure. There are some indications that the hemoglobin S gene may have been a recent import into the Middle East.", "PMID": 436328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3128", "title": "Hereditary hypoceruloplasminemia.", "content": "Serum ceruloplasmin values of less than 21.0 mg/100 ml in males or less than 23.0 mg/100 ml in females were observed in 14 out of 156 otherwise healthy members of a pedigree. The hypoceruloplasminemia segregated in a fashion suggesting that the affected individuals are heterozygous for a mutant gene that results in hypoceruloplasminemia. This mutant gene could be a Wilson's disease gene, but excessive copper loading was absent. It is suggested that hereditary hypoceruloplasminemia may be a benign entity distinct from Wilson's disease.", "contents": "Hereditary hypoceruloplasminemia. Serum ceruloplasmin values of less than 21.0 mg/100 ml in males or less than 23.0 mg/100 ml in females were observed in 14 out of 156 otherwise healthy members of a pedigree. The hypoceruloplasminemia segregated in a fashion suggesting that the affected individuals are heterozygous for a mutant gene that results in hypoceruloplasminemia. This mutant gene could be a Wilson's disease gene, but excessive copper loading was absent. It is suggested that hereditary hypoceruloplasminemia may be a benign entity distinct from Wilson's disease.", "PMID": 436329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3129", "title": "Partial triplication and deletion of 13q: study of a family presenting with bilateral retinoblastomas.", "content": "This report compares the pathogenetic influences of selective deletion and triplicaton of chromosome 13 derived from a familial 12;13 insertional translocation. In the proband a heritable chromosomal basis for his bilateral retinoblastomas is established [46,XY,del (13) (pter leads to q12.5: :q22.1 leads to qter)mat], and in his sister the relatively modest effects of triplication of the mid-portions of 13q are demonstrated [46,XX,ins(12;13) (12pter leads to 12p11.2: :13q22.1 leads to 13q12.5: :12p11.2 leads to 12qter)mat]. Qualitative and quantitative gene marker studies and chromosomal staining techniques to differentiate timing of DNA replication failed to indicate functional gene changes about the breakpoints.", "contents": "Partial triplication and deletion of 13q: study of a family presenting with bilateral retinoblastomas. This report compares the pathogenetic influences of selective deletion and triplicaton of chromosome 13 derived from a familial 12;13 insertional translocation. In the proband a heritable chromosomal basis for his bilateral retinoblastomas is established [46,XY,del (13) (pter leads to q12.5: :q22.1 leads to qter)mat], and in his sister the relatively modest effects of triplication of the mid-portions of 13q are demonstrated [46,XX,ins(12;13) (12pter leads to 12p11.2: :13q22.1 leads to 13q12.5: :12p11.2 leads to 12qter)mat]. Qualitative and quantitative gene marker studies and chromosomal staining techniques to differentiate timing of DNA replication failed to indicate functional gene changes about the breakpoints.", "PMID": 436330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3130", "title": "Genetic studies in a family with inverted nipples (mammillae invertita).", "content": "A Jewish Sephardi family is reported in which 16 members are affected (15 females and 1 male) with inverted nipples. The one affected male and his brother also have gynecomastia. Under the assumption that this trait is transmitted as an autosomal dominant, linkage studies were done but were not revealing. Further family and investigative studies are needed in this disorder to understand better its pathogenesis and precise mode of genetic transmission.", "contents": "Genetic studies in a family with inverted nipples (mammillae invertita). A Jewish Sephardi family is reported in which 16 members are affected (15 females and 1 male) with inverted nipples. The one affected male and his brother also have gynecomastia. Under the assumption that this trait is transmitted as an autosomal dominant, linkage studies were done but were not revealing. Further family and investigative studies are needed in this disorder to understand better its pathogenesis and precise mode of genetic transmission.", "PMID": 436331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3131", "title": "Autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia: evidence for demyelination.", "content": "Neurological evaluation of a family living in rural Louisiana showed that six living members have splasticity, hyperactive stretch reflexes, and pathological reflexes. Ten deceased family members had been similarly affected. All affected persons were offspring of consanguineous marriages, and sex distribution was equal, indicating that inheritance was autosomal recessive. Although undetected clinically, conduction abnormalities suggestive of demyelination in the visual pathways were revealed by special tests.", "contents": "Autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia: evidence for demyelination. Neurological evaluation of a family living in rural Louisiana showed that six living members have splasticity, hyperactive stretch reflexes, and pathological reflexes. Ten deceased family members had been similarly affected. All affected persons were offspring of consanguineous marriages, and sex distribution was equal, indicating that inheritance was autosomal recessive. Although undetected clinically, conduction abnormalities suggestive of demyelination in the visual pathways were revealed by special tests.", "PMID": 436332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3132", "title": "Bloom's syndrome. VII. Progress report for 1978.", "content": "The Bloom's Syndrome Registry was published in this journal in 1977. Now, in the first in a series of progress reports, recent accessions to the Registry are recorded, new instances of neoplasia are listed, and recent clinical observations and experimental results of general interest are cited.", "contents": "Bloom's syndrome. VII. Progress report for 1978. The Bloom's Syndrome Registry was published in this journal in 1977. Now, in the first in a series of progress reports, recent accessions to the Registry are recorded, new instances of neoplasia are listed, and recent clinical observations and experimental results of general interest are cited.", "PMID": 436333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3133", "title": "Abnormal lymphocyte responses in residents of a town with a cluster of Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "A time-space aggregate of Hodgkin's disease was observed in a small town. A large elevator for the storage of navy beans was located in the residential area of the town. Lymphocytes of town residents compared to those of non-residents showed increased levels of transformations when challenged with extracts of navy beans. A phytohaemagglutinin from navy beans with the ability to stimulate lymphocytes was isolated and characterized. A hypothesis concerning a connection between this cluster of Hodgkin's disease and the abnormal lymphocyte responses to navy-bean phytohaemagglutinin is discussed.", "contents": "Abnormal lymphocyte responses in residents of a town with a cluster of Hodgkin's disease. A time-space aggregate of Hodgkin's disease was observed in a small town. A large elevator for the storage of navy beans was located in the residential area of the town. Lymphocytes of town residents compared to those of non-residents showed increased levels of transformations when challenged with extracts of navy beans. A phytohaemagglutinin from navy beans with the ability to stimulate lymphocytes was isolated and characterized. A hypothesis concerning a connection between this cluster of Hodgkin's disease and the abnormal lymphocyte responses to navy-bean phytohaemagglutinin is discussed.", "PMID": 436334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3134", "title": "Heterogeneous neurocytotoxic antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "Sera from eighteen patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were tested for cytotoxic antibody to three neuronal and two glial continuous cell lines of human origin. Eighty per cent (fifteen out of eighteen) of the sera were cytotoxic to at least one of the cell lines, but only seven sera were active against all five lines. Three sera had anti-neuronal but not anti-glial reactivity. No sera were gliocytotoxic without neurocytotoxicity. Three SLE sera with relatively strong cytotoxicity to all five cell lines were abosrbed with each of the cell lines separately and the absorbed sera were then tested for residual cytotoxicity to each of the cell lines. The absorptions uncovered at least six different antibody specificities directed at antigens expressed on some but not all of the neuronal and glial cell lines. Each patient's serum had its own profile of antibody specificities reactive with membrane antigens on nervous tissue-derived cells.", "contents": "Heterogeneous neurocytotoxic antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus. Sera from eighteen patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were tested for cytotoxic antibody to three neuronal and two glial continuous cell lines of human origin. Eighty per cent (fifteen out of eighteen) of the sera were cytotoxic to at least one of the cell lines, but only seven sera were active against all five lines. Three sera had anti-neuronal but not anti-glial reactivity. No sera were gliocytotoxic without neurocytotoxicity. Three SLE sera with relatively strong cytotoxicity to all five cell lines were abosrbed with each of the cell lines separately and the absorbed sera were then tested for residual cytotoxicity to each of the cell lines. The absorptions uncovered at least six different antibody specificities directed at antigens expressed on some but not all of the neuronal and glial cell lines. Each patient's serum had its own profile of antibody specificities reactive with membrane antigens on nervous tissue-derived cells.", "PMID": 436335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3135", "title": "IgG synthesis within the brain in multiple sclerosis and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.", "content": "Intracerebral IgG synthesis was measured in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) and in two control groups--patients with other neurological disorders and patients with non-neurological diseases. Significantly increased synthesis was found at all times in SSPE (P less than 0.001). Significantly elevated values were also found in MS (P less than 0.001), but in this group increased values were found mainly during relapse. These findings emphasize the immunological component in SSPE where there is known to be persistent measles virus infection in the brain, and in MS where the aetiology is unknown. Intracerebral IgG synthesis appears to be of diagnostic value in MS. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) IgG/total protein ratio was also measured in MS, and correlated only moderately well with the calculated IgG synthesis, indicating that the ratio provides a cruder estimate of intracerebral IgG synthesis.", "contents": "IgG synthesis within the brain in multiple sclerosis and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Intracerebral IgG synthesis was measured in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) and in two control groups--patients with other neurological disorders and patients with non-neurological diseases. Significantly increased synthesis was found at all times in SSPE (P less than 0.001). Significantly elevated values were also found in MS (P less than 0.001), but in this group increased values were found mainly during relapse. These findings emphasize the immunological component in SSPE where there is known to be persistent measles virus infection in the brain, and in MS where the aetiology is unknown. Intracerebral IgG synthesis appears to be of diagnostic value in MS. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) IgG/total protein ratio was also measured in MS, and correlated only moderately well with the calculated IgG synthesis, indicating that the ratio provides a cruder estimate of intracerebral IgG synthesis.", "PMID": 436336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3136", "title": "Relationships between the haemolytic activities of the human complement system and complement components.", "content": "The relationships between the haemolytic activities of complement and its components were studied. The activities studied included CH50 (classical pathway), AP50 (alternative pathway), CV50 (early part of alternative pathway) and C(3--9)H50 ((the late part of both pathways). The components included C3, C4, C5, C9, B and D. There was a good correlation between CH50 and AP50. AP50 had a good correlation with B and CV50. There was no correlation between AP50 and C(3--9)H50, and none between C(3--9)H50 and C5 or C9. AP50 may primarily represent changes in the early part of the alternative pathway. C(3--9)H50 is not influenced by respective changes in the amounts of C5 or C9. Since cell lesion is now considered to be caused by a unit of C5b to C9, a change in each component of C5 to C9 may not influence haemolytic activity.", "contents": "Relationships between the haemolytic activities of the human complement system and complement components. The relationships between the haemolytic activities of complement and its components were studied. The activities studied included CH50 (classical pathway), AP50 (alternative pathway), CV50 (early part of alternative pathway) and C(3--9)H50 ((the late part of both pathways). The components included C3, C4, C5, C9, B and D. There was a good correlation between CH50 and AP50. AP50 had a good correlation with B and CV50. There was no correlation between AP50 and C(3--9)H50, and none between C(3--9)H50 and C5 or C9. AP50 may primarily represent changes in the early part of the alternative pathway. C(3--9)H50 is not influenced by respective changes in the amounts of C5 or C9. Since cell lesion is now considered to be caused by a unit of C5b to C9, a change in each component of C5 to C9 may not influence haemolytic activity.", "PMID": 436337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3137", "title": "Peritoneal clearance and total body elimination of vancomycin during chronic intermittent peritoneal dialysis.", "content": "Vancomycin is a useful antimicrobial agent in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis treatment; its efficacy in chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has not been established. Serum (VS) and peritoneal fluid (VPF) vancomycin concentrations were measured in two CPD patients with staphylococcal peritonitis. Half-life of VS agreed with the half-life of VPF in each patient, and the VS/VPF ratio was 1.27 in both patients. Distribution volumes were 37.2 and 58.7 l, values approximating total body water in these patients. VS and VPF persisted in the therapeutic range (greater than 5 microgram/ml) for more than 16 days. In one patient, mean peritoneal clearacne was 9.8 ml/min, and overall drug clearance averaged 2.3 ml/min; in the other patient, overall clearance was 2.1 ml/min. These results indicate that therapeutic vancomycin levels can be maintained for more than 16 days with a single 1 g intravenous dose in patients receiving intermittent CPD, as is the case for hemodialysis patients. Because of this, parenteral vancomycin is useful in the treatment of staphylococcal peritonitis in CPD patients.", "contents": "Peritoneal clearance and total body elimination of vancomycin during chronic intermittent peritoneal dialysis. Vancomycin is a useful antimicrobial agent in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis treatment; its efficacy in chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has not been established. Serum (VS) and peritoneal fluid (VPF) vancomycin concentrations were measured in two CPD patients with staphylococcal peritonitis. Half-life of VS agreed with the half-life of VPF in each patient, and the VS/VPF ratio was 1.27 in both patients. Distribution volumes were 37.2 and 58.7 l, values approximating total body water in these patients. VS and VPF persisted in the therapeutic range (greater than 5 microgram/ml) for more than 16 days. In one patient, mean peritoneal clearacne was 9.8 ml/min, and overall drug clearance averaged 2.3 ml/min; in the other patient, overall clearance was 2.1 ml/min. These results indicate that therapeutic vancomycin levels can be maintained for more than 16 days with a single 1 g intravenous dose in patients receiving intermittent CPD, as is the case for hemodialysis patients. Because of this, parenteral vancomycin is useful in the treatment of staphylococcal peritonitis in CPD patients.", "PMID": 436339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3138", "title": "Persistent anemia associated with reduced serum vitamin B12 levels in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis therapy.", "content": "Four patients on regular hemodialysis therapy with a persistent anemia and reduced serum vitamin B12 levels are discribed. In each case a significant improvement occurred with B12 therapy and it is suggested that the vitamin B12 content of a 70 g protein/day diet may not be adequate to maintain stores of the vitamin.", "contents": "Persistent anemia associated with reduced serum vitamin B12 levels in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis therapy. Four patients on regular hemodialysis therapy with a persistent anemia and reduced serum vitamin B12 levels are discribed. In each case a significant improvement occurred with B12 therapy and it is suggested that the vitamin B12 content of a 70 g protein/day diet may not be adequate to maintain stores of the vitamin.", "PMID": 436340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3139", "title": "Bilateral cortical necrosis and calcification of the kidneys following snakebite: a case report.", "content": "A 16 year-old-boy was admitted to the ICU of university hospital with acute renal failure following snakebite. The clinical evolution of the patient associated with radiological findings of renal calcification suggested bilateral cortical necrosis of the kidneys. The biopsy findings were compatible with this diagnosis. The patient was discharged 86 days after his admission, with chronic renal failure, since a kidney transplantation was not possible.", "contents": "Bilateral cortical necrosis and calcification of the kidneys following snakebite: a case report. A 16 year-old-boy was admitted to the ICU of university hospital with acute renal failure following snakebite. The clinical evolution of the patient associated with radiological findings of renal calcification suggested bilateral cortical necrosis of the kidneys. The biopsy findings were compatible with this diagnosis. The patient was discharged 86 days after his admission, with chronic renal failure, since a kidney transplantation was not possible.", "PMID": 436341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3140", "title": "Urinary fibrinogen degradation products and differential protein clearances in renal disease.", "content": "The close correlation observed between urine concentration of fibrinogen degradation products and differential protein clearances in the proteinuria of renal disease has been confirmed. Heavy proteinuria in excess of 5 g/l however leads to raised FDP levels, irrespective of the selectivity of the protein clearance. A correction factor for proteinuria enables an accurate estimate of protein clearance from a single measurement of urine FDP.", "contents": "Urinary fibrinogen degradation products and differential protein clearances in renal disease. The close correlation observed between urine concentration of fibrinogen degradation products and differential protein clearances in the proteinuria of renal disease has been confirmed. Heavy proteinuria in excess of 5 g/l however leads to raised FDP levels, irrespective of the selectivity of the protein clearance. A correction factor for proteinuria enables an accurate estimate of protein clearance from a single measurement of urine FDP.", "PMID": 436342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3141", "title": "Judgments of trained observers on adverse drug reactions.", "content": "Patients (672) admitted to a department of medicine during five consecutive months were followed by an investigator who identified 110 clinical manifestations which could have been considered adverse drug reactions. From these, 42 were excluded because they did not correspond to the definition of adverse reaction or they were inadequately documented. The remaining 68 cases were submitted to three independent observers who had to reply to a series of questions; from these replies five degrees of probability for the reaction itself were deduced. Reactions (54; 49% of the manifestations reported) were considered as certain or probable by at least two observers, but only 27 rections of these (25%) were attributed to the same drug by all three observers. There was a low level of agreement between any two observers (paired agreement ratio: 0.6 to 0.7) and little difference of agreement between any one observer and each of the others (personal agreement ratio: 0.6 to 0.7).", "contents": "Judgments of trained observers on adverse drug reactions. Patients (672) admitted to a department of medicine during five consecutive months were followed by an investigator who identified 110 clinical manifestations which could have been considered adverse drug reactions. From these, 42 were excluded because they did not correspond to the definition of adverse reaction or they were inadequately documented. The remaining 68 cases were submitted to three independent observers who had to reply to a series of questions; from these replies five degrees of probability for the reaction itself were deduced. Reactions (54; 49% of the manifestations reported) were considered as certain or probable by at least two observers, but only 27 rections of these (25%) were attributed to the same drug by all three observers. There was a low level of agreement between any two observers (paired agreement ratio: 0.6 to 0.7) and little difference of agreement between any one observer and each of the others (personal agreement ratio: 0.6 to 0.7).", "PMID": 436353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3142", "title": "Biotransformation and elimination of digoxin with normal and minimal renal function.", "content": "Six subjects with normal renal function (NRF) and 6 patients with minimal renal function (MRF) on 3 times weekly hemodialysis received 150 muCi3H-digoxin-12 alpha orally. Serial urine collections were made for five days or more. Digoxin and metabolites were separated using diethylaminoethyl Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography. Mean cumulative percentages of the ingested radioactivity excreted over five days in NRF and MRF groups were: digoin, 54.5% and 14.7%; bis-digitoxoside of digoxigenin, 2.0% and 0.59%; mono-digitoxoside, 0.8% and 0.19%; digoxigenin, 0.25% and 0.03%; and dihydrodigoxin, 0.3% and 0.03%. Half-lives based on the mean rates of disappearance from urine comparing NRF and MRF groups were: for digoxin 40 hr and 120 hr; for bis-digitoxoside, 11.5 hr and 46 hr; for mono-digitoxoside, 8.5 hr and 12 hr; for digoxigenin, 2 hr and 7.5 hr; and for dihydrodigoxin, 1.2 hr and 7.0 hr. Considering the relationships of the five-day cumulative excretion and half-lives of digoxin and metabolites in the NRF and MRF groups, it appears unlikely that there is a major alteration in the biotransformation of digoxin in advanced renal failure when there appears to be a shift from renal to slower biliary excretion.", "contents": "Biotransformation and elimination of digoxin with normal and minimal renal function. Six subjects with normal renal function (NRF) and 6 patients with minimal renal function (MRF) on 3 times weekly hemodialysis received 150 muCi3H-digoxin-12 alpha orally. Serial urine collections were made for five days or more. Digoxin and metabolites were separated using diethylaminoethyl Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography. Mean cumulative percentages of the ingested radioactivity excreted over five days in NRF and MRF groups were: digoin, 54.5% and 14.7%; bis-digitoxoside of digoxigenin, 2.0% and 0.59%; mono-digitoxoside, 0.8% and 0.19%; digoxigenin, 0.25% and 0.03%; and dihydrodigoxin, 0.3% and 0.03%. Half-lives based on the mean rates of disappearance from urine comparing NRF and MRF groups were: for digoxin 40 hr and 120 hr; for bis-digitoxoside, 11.5 hr and 46 hr; for mono-digitoxoside, 8.5 hr and 12 hr; for digoxigenin, 2 hr and 7.5 hr; and for dihydrodigoxin, 1.2 hr and 7.0 hr. Considering the relationships of the five-day cumulative excretion and half-lives of digoxin and metabolites in the NRF and MRF groups, it appears unlikely that there is a major alteration in the biotransformation of digoxin in advanced renal failure when there appears to be a shift from renal to slower biliary excretion.", "PMID": 436354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3143", "title": "Cefadroxil kinetics in patients with renal insufficiency.", "content": "Kinetic parameters and bioavailability of cefadroxil were studied in 20 subjects with differing renal function as measured by endogenous creatinine clearance (CCr). Two subjects were on hemodialysis. After an overnight fast, each subject ingested two 500-mg capsules of cefadroxil. The peak serum concentration was variable (12 to 57 mg/L) and correlated inversely with the CCr. All but one patient had maximum absorption within 4 hr of ingestion and in most patients the peak was reached within the 2-hr sample. Urinary recovery within 48 hr was 45% to 106% when CCr greater than 8 ml/min. Even in patients with the most severe renal failure (CCr less than 10 ml/min), urine concentrations of cefadroxil were adequate to treat susceptible bacteria. The rate of oral absorption ka, was not affected by the state of renal function and was 0.76 +/- 0.50 hr-1. The apparent distribution volume (V d ext) was 0.28 +/- 0.09 L/kg. The plasma elimination rate was dependent on CCr wih a small fraction of drug being removed by nonrenal routes. Except in advanced renal failure, tubular secretion was present since renal clearance of cefadroxil exceeded CCr. The data suggest that little drug accumulation will occur with the usual 8- to 12-hr dosing schedule except when the CCr is less than 25 ml/min.", "contents": "Cefadroxil kinetics in patients with renal insufficiency. Kinetic parameters and bioavailability of cefadroxil were studied in 20 subjects with differing renal function as measured by endogenous creatinine clearance (CCr). Two subjects were on hemodialysis. After an overnight fast, each subject ingested two 500-mg capsules of cefadroxil. The peak serum concentration was variable (12 to 57 mg/L) and correlated inversely with the CCr. All but one patient had maximum absorption within 4 hr of ingestion and in most patients the peak was reached within the 2-hr sample. Urinary recovery within 48 hr was 45% to 106% when CCr greater than 8 ml/min. Even in patients with the most severe renal failure (CCr less than 10 ml/min), urine concentrations of cefadroxil were adequate to treat susceptible bacteria. The rate of oral absorption ka, was not affected by the state of renal function and was 0.76 +/- 0.50 hr-1. The apparent distribution volume (V d ext) was 0.28 +/- 0.09 L/kg. The plasma elimination rate was dependent on CCr wih a small fraction of drug being removed by nonrenal routes. Except in advanced renal failure, tubular secretion was present since renal clearance of cefadroxil exceeded CCr. The data suggest that little drug accumulation will occur with the usual 8- to 12-hr dosing schedule except when the CCr is less than 25 ml/min.", "PMID": 436355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3144", "title": "Site of renal action of xipamide.", "content": "Xipamide, hydrochlorothiazide, and furosemide were given to normal volunteers on a double-blind basis. During maximal water diuresis, there was a reduction in free water clearance and an increase in osmolar clearance after administration of xipamide and hydrochlorothiazide, but not in the case of furosemide. During maximal hydropenia, both xipamide and hydrochlorothiazide increased free water reabosorption in a linear relationship to osmolar clearance, while furosemide increased osmolar clearance with little change in free water reabsorption. It was concluded, therefore, that, as with hydrochlorothiazide, the site of action of xipamide was on the distal convoluted tubule, and that of furosemide on the loop of Henle.", "contents": "Site of renal action of xipamide. Xipamide, hydrochlorothiazide, and furosemide were given to normal volunteers on a double-blind basis. During maximal water diuresis, there was a reduction in free water clearance and an increase in osmolar clearance after administration of xipamide and hydrochlorothiazide, but not in the case of furosemide. During maximal hydropenia, both xipamide and hydrochlorothiazide increased free water reabosorption in a linear relationship to osmolar clearance, while furosemide increased osmolar clearance with little change in free water reabsorption. It was concluded, therefore, that, as with hydrochlorothiazide, the site of action of xipamide was on the distal convoluted tubule, and that of furosemide on the loop of Henle.", "PMID": 436356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3145", "title": "Single and divided doses of penbutolol.", "content": "Penbutolol, a nonselective beta-adrenoreceptor antagonist, induced reduction of exercise-induced heartbeats for at least 24 hr after a single 40-mg oral dose, and was equipotent with respect to a 2 X 20-mg regimen over the same period. Ingestion for 7 days did not influence the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics of penbutolol, and there was no cumulation of drug in serum. A relationship was found between the logarithms of measurable serum concentrations of penbutolol and the percentage reduction of total heartbeats. Absorption of oral penbutolol appeared to be reduced when administered in the evening. Since beta-adrenoceptor activity was relatively unchanged between 13 and 24 hr after a single 40-mg dose of penbutolol, there is a possibility that an active metabolite or metabolites may contribute to prolonged duration of action.", "contents": "Single and divided doses of penbutolol. Penbutolol, a nonselective beta-adrenoreceptor antagonist, induced reduction of exercise-induced heartbeats for at least 24 hr after a single 40-mg oral dose, and was equipotent with respect to a 2 X 20-mg regimen over the same period. Ingestion for 7 days did not influence the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics of penbutolol, and there was no cumulation of drug in serum. A relationship was found between the logarithms of measurable serum concentrations of penbutolol and the percentage reduction of total heartbeats. Absorption of oral penbutolol appeared to be reduced when administered in the evening. Since beta-adrenoceptor activity was relatively unchanged between 13 and 24 hr after a single 40-mg dose of penbutolol, there is a possibility that an active metabolite or metabolites may contribute to prolonged duration of action.", "PMID": 436357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3146", "title": "Dichloroallyl lawsone.", "content": "Dichloroallyl lawsone (DCL, NSC-126771), a synthetic analogue of the antimalarial lapachol, is potentially useful in cancer chemotherapy. Unlike most anticancer agents, DCL is not significantly myelosuppressive in animals but it induces acute cardiac toxicity in the rhesus monkey. This cardiac toxicity seems to be correlated with the maximal plasma DCL concentration, about 130 mg/L in the monkey. We have studied DCL pharmacokinetics in patients in an attempt to define safe dose limits for the Phase I clinical trial. After the rapid intravenous infusion of 10 mg/m2 of radioactive [1- or 4-14C]DCL, 250 muCi per patient, the mean peak plasma concentration of unchanged DCL in four patients was 2.9 +/- 0.3 mg/L. The drug had a mean initial plasma half-life of 48.9 +/- 19 min and a terminal half-life of 20.3 +/- 1.8 hr, with a C X t of 50.1 +/- 12 mg/L/hr, and a clearance rate of 0.08 ml/kg/min. These data suggest that in clinical trials the DCL dose given by rapid intravenous infusion should not exceed 450 mg/m2 so that the maximal plasma drug concentration remains below 130 mg/L.", "contents": "Dichloroallyl lawsone. Dichloroallyl lawsone (DCL, NSC-126771), a synthetic analogue of the antimalarial lapachol, is potentially useful in cancer chemotherapy. Unlike most anticancer agents, DCL is not significantly myelosuppressive in animals but it induces acute cardiac toxicity in the rhesus monkey. This cardiac toxicity seems to be correlated with the maximal plasma DCL concentration, about 130 mg/L in the monkey. We have studied DCL pharmacokinetics in patients in an attempt to define safe dose limits for the Phase I clinical trial. After the rapid intravenous infusion of 10 mg/m2 of radioactive [1- or 4-14C]DCL, 250 muCi per patient, the mean peak plasma concentration of unchanged DCL in four patients was 2.9 +/- 0.3 mg/L. The drug had a mean initial plasma half-life of 48.9 +/- 19 min and a terminal half-life of 20.3 +/- 1.8 hr, with a C X t of 50.1 +/- 12 mg/L/hr, and a clearance rate of 0.08 ml/kg/min. These data suggest that in clinical trials the DCL dose given by rapid intravenous infusion should not exceed 450 mg/m2 so that the maximal plasma drug concentration remains below 130 mg/L.", "PMID": 436360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3147", "title": "Prediction of steady-state imipramine and desmethylimipramine plasma concentrations from single-dose data.", "content": "Tricyclic antidepressant plasma levels were measured in patients and healthy subjects after a single dise of desmethylimipramine (DMI) or imipramine (IMI) and after chronic dosing to steady states. Tricyclic plasma levels measured 24 hr after the single oral dose correlated with steady-state plasma levels. In patients receiving DMI there was a correlation (r = 0.97, n = 10) between 24-hr and steady-state DMI levels, while in normal subjects receiving IMI the correlation was r = 0.92 (n = 20) between 24-hr and steady-state total tricyclic levels (IMI plus its metabolite, DMI). These results suggest the possibility that after a test dose of tricyclic antidepressant, a patient may be put on a \"therapeutic\" dosage regimen without delay.", "contents": "Prediction of steady-state imipramine and desmethylimipramine plasma concentrations from single-dose data. Tricyclic antidepressant plasma levels were measured in patients and healthy subjects after a single dise of desmethylimipramine (DMI) or imipramine (IMI) and after chronic dosing to steady states. Tricyclic plasma levels measured 24 hr after the single oral dose correlated with steady-state plasma levels. In patients receiving DMI there was a correlation (r = 0.97, n = 10) between 24-hr and steady-state DMI levels, while in normal subjects receiving IMI the correlation was r = 0.92 (n = 20) between 24-hr and steady-state total tricyclic levels (IMI plus its metabolite, DMI). These results suggest the possibility that after a test dose of tricyclic antidepressant, a patient may be put on a \"therapeutic\" dosage regimen without delay.", "PMID": 436362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3148", "title": "Treatment of alkalosis with ammonium chloride: a case report.", "content": "Coma due to ammonium chloride used in the treatment of severe metabolic alkalosis is reported in a patient with normal hepatic and renal function. All symptoms resolved following discontinuance. Ammonium chloride should be abandoned as a treatment for metabolic alkalosis.", "contents": "Treatment of alkalosis with ammonium chloride: a case report. Coma due to ammonium chloride used in the treatment of severe metabolic alkalosis is reported in a patient with normal hepatic and renal function. All symptoms resolved following discontinuance. Ammonium chloride should be abandoned as a treatment for metabolic alkalosis.", "PMID": 436363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3149", "title": "Hodgkin's disease: the pendulum swings. Knox lecture, Royal College of Radiologists, 1977.", "content": "There has been a profound change in the attitude of the medical profession towards patients with Hodgkin's disease. Until recently the disease was regarded, quite incorrectly, as inevitably fatal. Nowadays it is frequently assumed that it is constantly curable, which also a totally erroneous view. However, there has been an enormous improvement in the management of patients with all stages of the disease, so much so that further improvements without the production of excessive complications are becoming increasingly difficult to achieve. The author reviews the background to the present situation including some of the studies organised by the British National Lymphoma Group, which may be producing results which could be of benefit for patients. Some measures are discussed which may offer hope of improving even further the situation for the patient, without increasing risks from treatment.", "contents": "Hodgkin's disease: the pendulum swings. Knox lecture, Royal College of Radiologists, 1977. There has been a profound change in the attitude of the medical profession towards patients with Hodgkin's disease. Until recently the disease was regarded, quite incorrectly, as inevitably fatal. Nowadays it is frequently assumed that it is constantly curable, which also a totally erroneous view. However, there has been an enormous improvement in the management of patients with all stages of the disease, so much so that further improvements without the production of excessive complications are becoming increasingly difficult to achieve. The author reviews the background to the present situation including some of the studies organised by the British National Lymphoma Group, which may be producing results which could be of benefit for patients. Some measures are discussed which may offer hope of improving even further the situation for the patient, without increasing risks from treatment.", "PMID": 436364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3150", "title": "The instant enema in inflammatory disease of the colon.", "content": "The instant, or unprepared, double contrast barium enema has been used routinely at St Mark's Hospital in the investigation of active inflammatory disease of the colon since 1963. The use of air contrast is preferred to show the fine detail of the mucosal changes and to detect early involvement. With the instant enema technique the diagnostic results are satisfactory and patients are minimally disturbed by the procedure. The majority of examinations consist of a total of four films, which includes a plain film of the abdomen prior to the administration of contrast. For short-term follow-up a repeat enema with a single film is usually adequate.", "contents": "The instant enema in inflammatory disease of the colon. The instant, or unprepared, double contrast barium enema has been used routinely at St Mark's Hospital in the investigation of active inflammatory disease of the colon since 1963. The use of air contrast is preferred to show the fine detail of the mucosal changes and to detect early involvement. With the instant enema technique the diagnostic results are satisfactory and patients are minimally disturbed by the procedure. The majority of examinations consist of a total of four films, which includes a plain film of the abdomen prior to the administration of contrast. For short-term follow-up a repeat enema with a single film is usually adequate.", "PMID": 436365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3151", "title": "Chronic pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease.", "content": "A consecutive series of 59 patients with abnormal pancreatograms indicative of chronic pancreatitis included five patients who also had inflammatory bowel disease. This is greater number than would be expected by chance. The cases are presented, and possible explanations are discussed.", "contents": "Chronic pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease. A consecutive series of 59 patients with abnormal pancreatograms indicative of chronic pancreatitis included five patients who also had inflammatory bowel disease. This is greater number than would be expected by chance. The cases are presented, and possible explanations are discussed.", "PMID": 436366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3152", "title": "Rapid duodenal and jejunal intubation.", "content": "A size 12 French radiopaque catheter, 135 cm long, suitable for rapid duodenal and jejunal intubation, is described. Its size and flexibility enable it to be passed with ease through the nose, stomach and duodenum. A guide wire is used to act as a stiffener as the catheter is passed through the stomach. The catheter is suitable for infusing barium directly into the small intestine and for performing hypotonic duodenography. The technique for duodenal and jejunal intubation is discussed.", "contents": "Rapid duodenal and jejunal intubation. A size 12 French radiopaque catheter, 135 cm long, suitable for rapid duodenal and jejunal intubation, is described. Its size and flexibility enable it to be passed with ease through the nose, stomach and duodenum. A guide wire is used to act as a stiffener as the catheter is passed through the stomach. The catheter is suitable for infusing barium directly into the small intestine and for performing hypotonic duodenography. The technique for duodenal and jejunal intubation is discussed.", "PMID": 436367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3153", "title": "Radiological changes of reflux oesophagitis.", "content": "Early changes in reflux oesophagitis are difficult to assess on radiological criteria (Torrance, 1973). The later manifestations, particularly with stricture formation, are best assessed by barium swallow. Apart from stricture formation, marked reflux oesophagitis with coarsened folds may lead to a mistaken diagnosis of varices or carcinoma. The various radiological appearances that have been encountered are described.", "contents": "Radiological changes of reflux oesophagitis. Early changes in reflux oesophagitis are difficult to assess on radiological criteria (Torrance, 1973). The later manifestations, particularly with stricture formation, are best assessed by barium swallow. Apart from stricture formation, marked reflux oesophagitis with coarsened folds may lead to a mistaken diagnosis of varices or carcinoma. The various radiological appearances that have been encountered are described.", "PMID": 436368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3154", "title": "Peritoneal cannulography.", "content": "Peritoneal dialysis is a simple effective treatment for patients with some forms of renal failure, poisoning and fluid and electrolyte imbalance. There are several well-recognised complications. Common amongst these are malinsertion and positioning of the cannulae, perforation of visci and partial blockage of the cannula by debris. A simple technique of cannulography is described whereby the diagnosis of some of these conditions can be readily achieved.", "contents": "Peritoneal cannulography. Peritoneal dialysis is a simple effective treatment for patients with some forms of renal failure, poisoning and fluid and electrolyte imbalance. There are several well-recognised complications. Common amongst these are malinsertion and positioning of the cannulae, perforation of visci and partial blockage of the cannula by debris. A simple technique of cannulography is described whereby the diagnosis of some of these conditions can be readily achieved.", "PMID": 436369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3155", "title": "Computer-assisted tomography in the assessment of cervical spine trauma.", "content": "Four patients with cervical spine trauma were examined by computerised tomography in addition to standard radiography and additional useful information was thereby gained. The axial projection is particularly useful in studying the cervical spinal canal and neural arch. The examination may be performed rapidly without moving the patient, an important consideration after severe trauma.", "contents": "Computer-assisted tomography in the assessment of cervical spine trauma. Four patients with cervical spine trauma were examined by computerised tomography in addition to standard radiography and additional useful information was thereby gained. The axial projection is particularly useful in studying the cervical spinal canal and neural arch. The examination may be performed rapidly without moving the patient, an important consideration after severe trauma.", "PMID": 436370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3156", "title": "Computed tomography in pulmonary asbestosis.", "content": "Attention is drawn to the signs of asbestosis on computed axial tomography and comparison made with findings in conventional radiology in 36 patients. CT was found to be significantly more sensitive in the detection of both pleural and parenchymal disease apart from thickened fissures. A possible sign of early mesothelioma is mentioned and an encasing variety of pleural thickening described. Perfusion changes which may represent a 'pre-radiological' interstitial fibrosis are discussed.", "contents": "Computed tomography in pulmonary asbestosis. Attention is drawn to the signs of asbestosis on computed axial tomography and comparison made with findings in conventional radiology in 36 patients. CT was found to be significantly more sensitive in the detection of both pleural and parenchymal disease apart from thickened fissures. A possible sign of early mesothelioma is mentioned and an encasing variety of pleural thickening described. Perfusion changes which may represent a 'pre-radiological' interstitial fibrosis are discussed.", "PMID": 436371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3157", "title": "Percutaneous needle biopsy of thoracic lesions--an evaluation of 300 biopsies.", "content": "The results of 300 consecutive thoracic needle biopsies have been evaluated. It is concluded that this is a safe procedure for the investigation of peripheral intrathoracic masses. It should not be performed unless excellent facilities for cytopathology are available. Under these conditions there is a high degree of accuracy in differentiating between malignant and non-malignant lesions, particularly if repeated biopsies are performed when the initial results are unrewarding, equivocal or at variance with the radiographic appearances. In this series there was an imperfect correlation between the cytological and subsequent histological cell type except with squamous carcinomas. The indications are changing with the advent of flexible bronchoscopy and the increasing use of chemotherapeutic regimes. Misleading results may be obtained from biopsy of cavitating lesions and necrotic tumours.", "contents": "Percutaneous needle biopsy of thoracic lesions--an evaluation of 300 biopsies. The results of 300 consecutive thoracic needle biopsies have been evaluated. It is concluded that this is a safe procedure for the investigation of peripheral intrathoracic masses. It should not be performed unless excellent facilities for cytopathology are available. Under these conditions there is a high degree of accuracy in differentiating between malignant and non-malignant lesions, particularly if repeated biopsies are performed when the initial results are unrewarding, equivocal or at variance with the radiographic appearances. In this series there was an imperfect correlation between the cytological and subsequent histological cell type except with squamous carcinomas. The indications are changing with the advent of flexible bronchoscopy and the increasing use of chemotherapeutic regimes. Misleading results may be obtained from biopsy of cavitating lesions and necrotic tumours.", "PMID": 436372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3158", "title": "A simplified approach to the reporting of intensive therapy unit chest radiographs.", "content": "The rationale for a simplified approach to the reporting of intensive therapy unit chest radiographs is presented. Pulmonary shadowing should be reported simply as pulmonary shadowing; histological predictions are unreliable and potentially misleading. One should concentrate on the detection of pneumothorax and the differentiation between pulmonary shadowing, pleural effusion and pulmonary collapse.", "contents": "A simplified approach to the reporting of intensive therapy unit chest radiographs. The rationale for a simplified approach to the reporting of intensive therapy unit chest radiographs is presented. Pulmonary shadowing should be reported simply as pulmonary shadowing; histological predictions are unreliable and potentially misleading. One should concentrate on the detection of pneumothorax and the differentiation between pulmonary shadowing, pleural effusion and pulmonary collapse.", "PMID": 436373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3159", "title": "CT scanning in two cases of lipoma of the spinal cord.", "content": "Two cases of lipoma of the spinal cord are presented. CT gives a specific diagnosis in this condition without any contrast being given. It is important to make a preoperative diagnosis, as in lipoma of the spinal cord biopsy is dangerous and frequently makes the patient worse. CT is also valuable as the length of the required decompression laminectomy can be assessed.", "contents": "CT scanning in two cases of lipoma of the spinal cord. Two cases of lipoma of the spinal cord are presented. CT gives a specific diagnosis in this condition without any contrast being given. It is important to make a preoperative diagnosis, as in lipoma of the spinal cord biopsy is dangerous and frequently makes the patient worse. CT is also valuable as the length of the required decompression laminectomy can be assessed.", "PMID": 436374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3160", "title": "Initial experiences with a formalised teaching programme in diagnostic radiology during the clinical undergraduate course.", "content": "The initial experiences of a four-week clinical undergraduate attachment in diagnostic radiology are described. The course is divided into (1) a series of prepared lecture programmes which cover aspects of diagnostic radiology in a systematic manner, (2) experience in hospital X-ray departments, observing special investigations and routine reporting, attending clinicoradiological conferences and receiving informal and formal tuition from radiologists, and (3) visits to specialised radiological and other imaging departments, namely ultrasound, nuclear medicine, neuroradiology and paediatrics. The aims of the courses are: (i) to provide a means of teaching clinical subjects and pathology in a dimension which crosses the tightly compartmentalised undergraduate curriculum; (ii) to instil basic principles of radiological interpretation, (iii) to teach undergraduates how to use the facilities of diagnostic imaging departments effectively and efficiently when they have qualified; (iv) to increase interest in the specialty, and insight into student opinion. There are difficulties involved in this large teaching commitment, for instance, understaffing, and the development of the course has been geared to counteracting these problems.", "contents": "Initial experiences with a formalised teaching programme in diagnostic radiology during the clinical undergraduate course. The initial experiences of a four-week clinical undergraduate attachment in diagnostic radiology are described. The course is divided into (1) a series of prepared lecture programmes which cover aspects of diagnostic radiology in a systematic manner, (2) experience in hospital X-ray departments, observing special investigations and routine reporting, attending clinicoradiological conferences and receiving informal and formal tuition from radiologists, and (3) visits to specialised radiological and other imaging departments, namely ultrasound, nuclear medicine, neuroradiology and paediatrics. The aims of the courses are: (i) to provide a means of teaching clinical subjects and pathology in a dimension which crosses the tightly compartmentalised undergraduate curriculum; (ii) to instil basic principles of radiological interpretation, (iii) to teach undergraduates how to use the facilities of diagnostic imaging departments effectively and efficiently when they have qualified; (iv) to increase interest in the specialty, and insight into student opinion. There are difficulties involved in this large teaching commitment, for instance, understaffing, and the development of the course has been geared to counteracting these problems.", "PMID": 436375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3161", "title": "The Massachusetts Poison Control System.", "content": "State and federal law provided the impetus to develop a coordinated statewide poison system in Massachusetts. To achieve this objective the Commissioner of the Department of Public Health established a Statewide Poison Committee, composed of poison control representatives, physicians, nurses, and pharmacists. After a year of regular meetings, a structure for a statewide poison system was developed, meetings, a structure for a statewide poison system was developed, and as January 1978 this System has been operational in Massachusetts. The structure is based on the Department of Public Health contracting with an incorporated institution to implement the Statewide System, which consists of one information center available to the public and professionals as well as a network of all 112 acute care hospitals in the State as \"member institutions.\" Educational institutions\" are further designated with a responsibility of professional and public education in various geographic areas throughout the State. The System is responsible for providing comprehensive poison information, treatment, public education, professional education, data collection, and research. A senior Advisory Board representing institutions with major contributions to the System as well as a Coordinating Committee representing diverse geographic and professional interests serve in an advisory capacity to the System. Funding is broad-based and includes federal, state, and private institutional support.", "contents": "The Massachusetts Poison Control System. State and federal law provided the impetus to develop a coordinated statewide poison system in Massachusetts. To achieve this objective the Commissioner of the Department of Public Health established a Statewide Poison Committee, composed of poison control representatives, physicians, nurses, and pharmacists. After a year of regular meetings, a structure for a statewide poison system was developed, meetings, a structure for a statewide poison system was developed, and as January 1978 this System has been operational in Massachusetts. The structure is based on the Department of Public Health contracting with an incorporated institution to implement the Statewide System, which consists of one information center available to the public and professionals as well as a network of all 112 acute care hospitals in the State as \"member institutions.\" Educational institutions\" are further designated with a responsibility of professional and public education in various geographic areas throughout the State. The System is responsible for providing comprehensive poison information, treatment, public education, professional education, data collection, and research. A senior Advisory Board representing institutions with major contributions to the System as well as a Coordinating Committee representing diverse geographic and professional interests serve in an advisory capacity to the System. Funding is broad-based and includes federal, state, and private institutional support.", "PMID": 436381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3162", "title": "Acute dapsone intoxication: a case with prolonged symptoms.", "content": "A 45-year-old man ate about 10 gm of dapsone (DDS). After initial vomiting marked methemoglobinemia with cyanosis, headache, and confusion developed. Methemoglobinemia subsided 7 days after ingestion when the concentrations of DDS and monoacetyldapsone (MADDS) were at the therapeutic level. Signs of hemolysis appeared on the third day after DDS ingestion, the hemolysis being maximal more than one week after ingestion. The initial disappearance of DDS and MADDS was slow, the apparent half-lives being 88 and 67 hr, respectively. Peroral activated charcoal seemed to shorten the half-lives of DDS and MADDS markedly. This result supports the concept of the enterohepatic cycle of dapsone and recommends the use of activated charcoal for several days in acute poisonings caused by DDS.", "contents": "Acute dapsone intoxication: a case with prolonged symptoms. A 45-year-old man ate about 10 gm of dapsone (DDS). After initial vomiting marked methemoglobinemia with cyanosis, headache, and confusion developed. Methemoglobinemia subsided 7 days after ingestion when the concentrations of DDS and monoacetyldapsone (MADDS) were at the therapeutic level. Signs of hemolysis appeared on the third day after DDS ingestion, the hemolysis being maximal more than one week after ingestion. The initial disappearance of DDS and MADDS was slow, the apparent half-lives being 88 and 67 hr, respectively. Peroral activated charcoal seemed to shorten the half-lives of DDS and MADDS markedly. This result supports the concept of the enterohepatic cycle of dapsone and recommends the use of activated charcoal for several days in acute poisonings caused by DDS.", "PMID": 436385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3163", "title": "Acute delirious state after epsilon-amino caproic acid administration.", "content": "Prior to intravenous pyelography, a patient known to have iodine hypersensitivity was injected intravenously with a bolus of 2 gm epsilon-amino caproic acid (EACA). Immediately following the injection the patient developed an acute episode manifested by a delirious state, with auditory, visual, and kinesthetic hallucinations. The entire episode lasted 8 min, and no residual psychiatric or neurologic symptoms were observed. To the best of our knowledge no such side effect of EACA has been reported so far.", "contents": "Acute delirious state after epsilon-amino caproic acid administration. Prior to intravenous pyelography, a patient known to have iodine hypersensitivity was injected intravenously with a bolus of 2 gm epsilon-amino caproic acid (EACA). Immediately following the injection the patient developed an acute episode manifested by a delirious state, with auditory, visual, and kinesthetic hallucinations. The entire episode lasted 8 min, and no residual psychiatric or neurologic symptoms were observed. To the best of our knowledge no such side effect of EACA has been reported so far.", "PMID": 436386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3164", "title": "Fenfluramine poisoning.", "content": "In a series of 53 fenfluramine intoxications (15 taken from the literature), 10 were lethal after doses of 28.7--70 mg/kg of body weight. Cardiac arrest occurred 1--4 hr after ingestion in 9 cases; all these 9 patients died. Two out of 3 patients with more than 15 mg/kg had coma and convulsions. Other frequent signs were mydriasis, tachycardia, and rubor of the face. The additional signs of nystagmus, hypertonia, trismus, hyperreflexia, clonus, excitation, hyperthermia, and sweating define the clinical syndrome of fenfluramine intoxication. Symptoms begin 30--60 min after ingestion and can persist during several days. Early gastric lavage, instillation of activated charcoal, diazepam in case of seizures, chlorpromazine for malignant hyperthermia, propranolol for extreme tachycardia, and lidocaine in the event of ventricular extrasystoles are recommended. If trismus is a prominent sign, muscle relaxants must be given before gastric lavage can be done. The relatively benign course after survival of the first 4 hr suggests supportive therapy only in the later phase of intoxication.", "contents": "Fenfluramine poisoning. In a series of 53 fenfluramine intoxications (15 taken from the literature), 10 were lethal after doses of 28.7--70 mg/kg of body weight. Cardiac arrest occurred 1--4 hr after ingestion in 9 cases; all these 9 patients died. Two out of 3 patients with more than 15 mg/kg had coma and convulsions. Other frequent signs were mydriasis, tachycardia, and rubor of the face. The additional signs of nystagmus, hypertonia, trismus, hyperreflexia, clonus, excitation, hyperthermia, and sweating define the clinical syndrome of fenfluramine intoxication. Symptoms begin 30--60 min after ingestion and can persist during several days. Early gastric lavage, instillation of activated charcoal, diazepam in case of seizures, chlorpromazine for malignant hyperthermia, propranolol for extreme tachycardia, and lidocaine in the event of ventricular extrasystoles are recommended. If trismus is a prominent sign, muscle relaxants must be given before gastric lavage can be done. The relatively benign course after survival of the first 4 hr suggests supportive therapy only in the later phase of intoxication.", "PMID": 436387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3165", "title": "California Association of Toxicologists proficiency testing program.", "content": "A proficiency testing program that has been conducted by the California Association of Toxicologists for 10 years is described. The purpose of the program is to allow each participant the opportunity to evaluate their methodology and efficiency on a qualitative as well as quantitative basis with other laboratories in the organization. The program is conducted entirely on a volunteer basis with the sample prepared by a different member each time. The selection of drugs for inclusion in the sample, the preparation and distribution, and the collation and dissemination of the results are discussed. An evaluation of all aspects of the program is presented.", "contents": "California Association of Toxicologists proficiency testing program. A proficiency testing program that has been conducted by the California Association of Toxicologists for 10 years is described. The purpose of the program is to allow each participant the opportunity to evaluate their methodology and efficiency on a qualitative as well as quantitative basis with other laboratories in the organization. The program is conducted entirely on a volunteer basis with the sample prepared by a different member each time. The selection of drugs for inclusion in the sample, the preparation and distribution, and the collation and dissemination of the results are discussed. An evaluation of all aspects of the program is presented.", "PMID": 436395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3166", "title": "A program for maximum likelihood estimation and likelihood ratio tests in one-locus ABO-like systems based upon population phenotype data.", "content": "Phenotypes in an ABO-like system of a number of genetically-independent persons from a number of populations are supposed to be observed. The program which is written in FORTRAN calculates maximum likelihood estimates of gene frequencies and their standard errors in each population and in the populations taken together. Furthermore the program calculates expected values and likelihood ratio and goodness of fit chi-square tests of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. If several subpopulations are pooled together a likelihood ratio test of homogeneity is performed.", "contents": "A program for maximum likelihood estimation and likelihood ratio tests in one-locus ABO-like systems based upon population phenotype data. Phenotypes in an ABO-like system of a number of genetically-independent persons from a number of populations are supposed to be observed. The program which is written in FORTRAN calculates maximum likelihood estimates of gene frequencies and their standard errors in each population and in the populations taken together. Furthermore the program calculates expected values and likelihood ratio and goodness of fit chi-square tests of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. If several subpopulations are pooled together a likelihood ratio test of homogeneity is performed.", "PMID": 436405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3167", "title": "A computer program for testing average partial association in three-way contingency tables (PARCAT).", "content": "PARCAT is a computer program which implements alternative tests for average partial association in three-way contingency tables within the framework of the product multiple hypergeometric probability model. Primary attention is directed at the relationship between two of the variables, controlling for the effects of a covariable. This approach is essentially a multivariate extension of the Cochran/Mantel-Haenszel test to sets of (s x r) tables. A set of scores such as uniform, ridits, or probits can be assigned to categories which are ordinally scaled. In particular, if ridit scores with midranks assigned for ties are utilized, this procedure is equivalent to a partial Kruskal-Wallis test when one variable is ordinally scaled, and is equivalent to a partial Spearman rank correlation test when both variables are ordinally scaled.", "contents": "A computer program for testing average partial association in three-way contingency tables (PARCAT). PARCAT is a computer program which implements alternative tests for average partial association in three-way contingency tables within the framework of the product multiple hypergeometric probability model. Primary attention is directed at the relationship between two of the variables, controlling for the effects of a covariable. This approach is essentially a multivariate extension of the Cochran/Mantel-Haenszel test to sets of (s x r) tables. A set of scores such as uniform, ridits, or probits can be assigned to categories which are ordinally scaled. In particular, if ridit scores with midranks assigned for ties are utilized, this procedure is equivalent to a partial Kruskal-Wallis test when one variable is ordinally scaled, and is equivalent to a partial Spearman rank correlation test when both variables are ordinally scaled.", "PMID": 436406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3168", "title": "A method of correction for curvature and inhomogeneities in computer aided calculation of external beam radiation dose distributions.", "content": "This paper deals with the problem of finding the effective pathlength along a ray passing through a patient's outline and internal structure. The pathlength contributes to the correction applied for curvature and inhomogeneities in the computer-aided calculation of external beam radiation dose distributions. The pathlength is found by first determining the intersections of the ray with the contours defining the patient's body and the interior inhomogeneities. From these intersections the geometric length within each contour is obtained. This information is then employed in a treatment planning program for high energy gamma and X-rays and electrons, in which the radiation dose distribution is computed taking into account the actual inhomogeneous tissue structures. Other applications of the techniques described to problems in the field of radiation therapy are briefly discussed.", "contents": "A method of correction for curvature and inhomogeneities in computer aided calculation of external beam radiation dose distributions. This paper deals with the problem of finding the effective pathlength along a ray passing through a patient's outline and internal structure. The pathlength contributes to the correction applied for curvature and inhomogeneities in the computer-aided calculation of external beam radiation dose distributions. The pathlength is found by first determining the intersections of the ray with the contours defining the patient's body and the interior inhomogeneities. From these intersections the geometric length within each contour is obtained. This information is then employed in a treatment planning program for high energy gamma and X-rays and electrons, in which the radiation dose distribution is computed taking into account the actual inhomogeneous tissue structures. Other applications of the techniques described to problems in the field of radiation therapy are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 436407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3169", "title": "Two-dimensional fast transforms applied to memory limited disk operating computers.", "content": "Two-dimensional transform algorithms are usually impractical to small machines which cannot handle N2 real (or complex) data points in core when N is large. Storing the input data in N disk records and computing two sequential one-dimensional transforms requires N(N + 3) disk access and 2 N applications of the one-dimensional procedure. Expanding the fast one-dimensional algorithm it is suggested that only 2 N log2N disk accesses are needed whereas the one-dimensional procedure is activated only N times.", "contents": "Two-dimensional fast transforms applied to memory limited disk operating computers. Two-dimensional transform algorithms are usually impractical to small machines which cannot handle N2 real (or complex) data points in core when N is large. Storing the input data in N disk records and computing two sequential one-dimensional transforms requires N(N + 3) disk access and 2 N applications of the one-dimensional procedure. Expanding the fast one-dimensional algorithm it is suggested that only 2 N log2N disk accesses are needed whereas the one-dimensional procedure is activated only N times.", "PMID": 436408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3170", "title": "Interactive computer supported tumor registry in the state of Rhode Island.", "content": "A new interactive computerized tumor registry has been established for the state of Rhode Island. The registry is implemented with new data base software which features a pagination scheme with rapid retrieval of non-coded variable data. The types of data stored are discussed as well as the computer system and methods of data entry storage and retrieval.", "contents": "Interactive computer supported tumor registry in the state of Rhode Island. A new interactive computerized tumor registry has been established for the state of Rhode Island. The registry is implemented with new data base software which features a pagination scheme with rapid retrieval of non-coded variable data. The types of data stored are discussed as well as the computer system and methods of data entry storage and retrieval.", "PMID": 436409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3171", "title": "A new interactive computerized data base and retrieval system.", "content": "A new computerized data base and retrieval system for a minicomputer has been devised for storing and retrieving clinical data. It features interactive terminal input and output using a pagination scheme as well as a subset mapping scheme for interactive retrieval. The pagination system, file structuring and retrieval system are discussed.", "contents": "A new interactive computerized data base and retrieval system. A new computerized data base and retrieval system for a minicomputer has been devised for storing and retrieving clinical data. It features interactive terminal input and output using a pagination scheme as well as a subset mapping scheme for interactive retrieval. The pagination system, file structuring and retrieval system are discussed.", "PMID": 436410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3172", "title": "Compact digital storage of ECG's.", "content": "The technique of predictive coding is applied to the problem of reversible compression of digitized electrocardiograms. Integer-based predictors and MMSE predictors are studied as regards performance at varying sampling rates and digital resolutions for both long-term ECGs and ECGs recorded at rest. It is concluded that MMSE predictors are to be preferred only in the case when the ECG is oversampled (i.e., the sampling rate is much higher than twice the cut-off frequency of the presampling filter). In other cases the integer predictor which yields the so-called 2nd differences is superior. The problem of encoding the resulting residuals with a variable-length code is studied for long-term ECGs digitized at 100 Hz and using 8 bits digital resolution. The code has a simple struture leading to speed of execution while the efficiency loss is small.", "contents": "Compact digital storage of ECG's. The technique of predictive coding is applied to the problem of reversible compression of digitized electrocardiograms. Integer-based predictors and MMSE predictors are studied as regards performance at varying sampling rates and digital resolutions for both long-term ECGs and ECGs recorded at rest. It is concluded that MMSE predictors are to be preferred only in the case when the ECG is oversampled (i.e., the sampling rate is much higher than twice the cut-off frequency of the presampling filter). In other cases the integer predictor which yields the so-called 2nd differences is superior. The problem of encoding the resulting residuals with a variable-length code is studied for long-term ECGs digitized at 100 Hz and using 8 bits digital resolution. The code has a simple struture leading to speed of execution while the efficiency loss is small.", "PMID": 436411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3173", "title": "Pulmonary capillary pressure and permeability.", "content": "An appreciation of the \"state of the art\" of pulmonary capillary pressure and permeability must necessarily form an important part of the basis of a rational choice of fluid therapy. The present state of the understanding of pulmonary transcapillary fluid exchange is developed. Laboratory data are used in conjunction with clinical evidence to construct and support the physiological concepts set forth.", "contents": "Pulmonary capillary pressure and permeability. An appreciation of the \"state of the art\" of pulmonary capillary pressure and permeability must necessarily form an important part of the basis of a rational choice of fluid therapy. The present state of the understanding of pulmonary transcapillary fluid exchange is developed. Laboratory data are used in conjunction with clinical evidence to construct and support the physiological concepts set forth.", "PMID": 436429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3174", "title": "Gene dosage effect: intraband mapping of human soluble glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase.", "content": "Quantitative assays of soluble GOT were performed on fibroblasts (from two individuals) with duplications of the long arm of chromosome 10 (10q24 leads to qter). Improved karyologic technique demonstrated that the duplications differ by half a band. Correlation of GOTS activity with the karyologic data indicates that the structural locus for GOTS maps within band 10q24. This study demonstrates the utility of this approach to fine structural mapping of the human genome.", "contents": "Gene dosage effect: intraband mapping of human soluble glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase. Quantitative assays of soluble GOT were performed on fibroblasts (from two individuals) with duplications of the long arm of chromosome 10 (10q24 leads to qter). Improved karyologic technique demonstrated that the duplications differ by half a band. Correlation of GOTS activity with the karyologic data indicates that the structural locus for GOTS maps within band 10q24. This study demonstrates the utility of this approach to fine structural mapping of the human genome.", "PMID": 436447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3175", "title": "The chromosomes of the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina (Phocidae: Mammalia).", "content": "Chromosome analyses were carried out on bone marrow cells from three elephant seal pups (Mirounga leonina), a species characterized by a 2n = 34 chromosome number. Arm ratios for the different chromosomes were calculated to facilitate the classification of chromosomes into groups. The karyotype of the southern elephant seal differs from other reported 34-chromosome phocids in the morphology of the Y chromosome and in that of one of the autosomal chromosome pairs.", "contents": "The chromosomes of the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina (Phocidae: Mammalia). Chromosome analyses were carried out on bone marrow cells from three elephant seal pups (Mirounga leonina), a species characterized by a 2n = 34 chromosome number. Arm ratios for the different chromosomes were calculated to facilitate the classification of chromosomes into groups. The karyotype of the southern elephant seal differs from other reported 34-chromosome phocids in the morphology of the Y chromosome and in that of one of the autosomal chromosome pairs.", "PMID": 436448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3176", "title": "Meiotic studies of translocations causing male sterility in the mouse. II. Double heterozygotes for Robertsonian translocations.", "content": "Unusual meiotic behavior of the XY chromosome pair was observed in sterile male mice doubly heterozygous for two Robertsonian translocations, Rb(16.17)7Bnr and Rb(8.17)1Iem. Nonrandom association between the X chromosome and the translocation configuration, ascertained from the frequencies of relevant C-band contacts, was found in 9 of 10 sterile males. Besides the nonrandom association, the XY chromosomes showed signs of impaired condensation, as judged by measurement of their lengths at diakinesis/MI of the first meiotic division. In contrast, neither nonrandom contact nor decondensation of the XY chromosomes pair was found in fertile males heterozygous for a single Robertsonian translocation, Rb1Iem or Rb7Bnr. The present observations lend indirect support to the working hypothesis advanced previously, the assumption that interference with X-chromosome inactivation is a possible cause of spermatogenic breakdown in carriers of various male-sterile chromosomal transloations. Alternative explanations of the available data, which cannot be ruled out, are briefly discussed.", "contents": "Meiotic studies of translocations causing male sterility in the mouse. II. Double heterozygotes for Robertsonian translocations. Unusual meiotic behavior of the XY chromosome pair was observed in sterile male mice doubly heterozygous for two Robertsonian translocations, Rb(16.17)7Bnr and Rb(8.17)1Iem. Nonrandom association between the X chromosome and the translocation configuration, ascertained from the frequencies of relevant C-band contacts, was found in 9 of 10 sterile males. Besides the nonrandom association, the XY chromosomes showed signs of impaired condensation, as judged by measurement of their lengths at diakinesis/MI of the first meiotic division. In contrast, neither nonrandom contact nor decondensation of the XY chromosomes pair was found in fertile males heterozygous for a single Robertsonian translocation, Rb1Iem or Rb7Bnr. The present observations lend indirect support to the working hypothesis advanced previously, the assumption that interference with X-chromosome inactivation is a possible cause of spermatogenic breakdown in carriers of various male-sterile chromosomal transloations. Alternative explanations of the available data, which cannot be ruled out, are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 436449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3177", "title": "Genetic studies in NZB mice. II. Hyperdiploidy in the spleen of NZB mice and their hybrids.", "content": "The presence of hyperdiploidy was studied in New Zealand black (NZB) mice and the progeny of NZB X DBA/2 crosses and backcrosses. Hyperdiploidy was observed in the spleens of a majority of NZB mice but not in DBA/2 mice at 1 year of age. In crosses of NZB with the DBA/2 strain, hyperploidy was observed only in backcrosses to NZB. Hyperdiploidy appeared to be determined by a recessivley inherited trait and was not related to the presence of other immunological abnormalities, including splenomegaly, hypergammaglobulinemia, and spontaneous antibodies cytotoxic for T cells and reactive with single-stranded DNA. Abnormal cells were not present in Concanavalin A-stimulated 48-h spleen cultures. There was no difference in the in vitro sister chromatid exchange rate between the autoimmune NZB strain and the non-autoimmune DBA/2 strain. Identification of NZB chromosomes by banding analysis showed that chromosomes 15 and 17 were frequently present in more than two copies in hyperdiploid spleen cells. NZB chromsomes also had reduced C-banding in an autosomal pair. These studies indicate that chromosomal abnormalities which occur in NZB mice may be useful as genetic and cytogenetic markers.", "contents": "Genetic studies in NZB mice. II. Hyperdiploidy in the spleen of NZB mice and their hybrids. The presence of hyperdiploidy was studied in New Zealand black (NZB) mice and the progeny of NZB X DBA/2 crosses and backcrosses. Hyperdiploidy was observed in the spleens of a majority of NZB mice but not in DBA/2 mice at 1 year of age. In crosses of NZB with the DBA/2 strain, hyperploidy was observed only in backcrosses to NZB. Hyperdiploidy appeared to be determined by a recessivley inherited trait and was not related to the presence of other immunological abnormalities, including splenomegaly, hypergammaglobulinemia, and spontaneous antibodies cytotoxic for T cells and reactive with single-stranded DNA. Abnormal cells were not present in Concanavalin A-stimulated 48-h spleen cultures. There was no difference in the in vitro sister chromatid exchange rate between the autoimmune NZB strain and the non-autoimmune DBA/2 strain. Identification of NZB chromosomes by banding analysis showed that chromosomes 15 and 17 were frequently present in more than two copies in hyperdiploid spleen cells. NZB chromsomes also had reduced C-banding in an autosomal pair. These studies indicate that chromosomal abnormalities which occur in NZB mice may be useful as genetic and cytogenetic markers.", "PMID": 436450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3178", "title": "Emergency room intubations--complications and survival.", "content": "Forty-three consecutive patients requiring endotracheal intubation in an emergency room were studied prospectively to define the complications associated with intubation and the survival of these patients, and to evaluate emergency room policies. The indications for intubation were acute respiratory failure (ARF) in 22 patients and cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) in 21 patients. Thirty-eight complications occurred in 24 of the 43 patients. The department or level of training of the intubator did not affect the rate of complications. Furthermore, specific complications did not influence survival. Seventeen patients survived, all in the ARF group. Age less than 40 years and admission PaO2 greater than 40 mm Hg also were associated with increased survival. We conclude that the complication rate of emergency room intubations is high and would not appear to be lowered by limiting intubations to physicians from specific departments or with certain levels of training. The underlying diagnosis and condition on admission to the emergency room appear to be more important factors relating to survival than complications during intubation.", "contents": "Emergency room intubations--complications and survival. Forty-three consecutive patients requiring endotracheal intubation in an emergency room were studied prospectively to define the complications associated with intubation and the survival of these patients, and to evaluate emergency room policies. The indications for intubation were acute respiratory failure (ARF) in 22 patients and cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) in 21 patients. Thirty-eight complications occurred in 24 of the 43 patients. The department or level of training of the intubator did not affect the rate of complications. Furthermore, specific complications did not influence survival. Seventeen patients survived, all in the ARF group. Age less than 40 years and admission PaO2 greater than 40 mm Hg also were associated with increased survival. We conclude that the complication rate of emergency room intubations is high and would not appear to be lowered by limiting intubations to physicians from specific departments or with certain levels of training. The underlying diagnosis and condition on admission to the emergency room appear to be more important factors relating to survival than complications during intubation.", "PMID": 436480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3179", "title": "Airway response to hair spray in normal subjects and subjects with hyperreactive airways.", "content": "Short-term 20-second exposure to hair sprays A and B failed to show significant decreases in maximum expiratory flow rates at low pulmonary volumes in normal subjects; however, significant decreases were observed with hair spray B in eight subjects with hyperractive airways (abnormal response to inhalation of methacholine). On the partial flow-volume curves, flows at 40 percent and 25 percent of forced vital capacity decreased 8.9 to 10.3 percent and 14 to 18.7 percent, respectively. The hair sprays differed in their content of perfume and plasticizer, and since the latter is generally considered nontoxic at room temperature, the perfume may be the responsible agent. It would appear from this study that normal healthy individuals are at little risk, at least from brief exposure to hair spray; however, in the presence of hyperreactive airways, as seen in asthmatic subjects and in some people with allergic rhinitis and viral respiratory infections, an immediate response of the airways may result from exposure to some hair sprays.", "contents": "Airway response to hair spray in normal subjects and subjects with hyperreactive airways. Short-term 20-second exposure to hair sprays A and B failed to show significant decreases in maximum expiratory flow rates at low pulmonary volumes in normal subjects; however, significant decreases were observed with hair spray B in eight subjects with hyperractive airways (abnormal response to inhalation of methacholine). On the partial flow-volume curves, flows at 40 percent and 25 percent of forced vital capacity decreased 8.9 to 10.3 percent and 14 to 18.7 percent, respectively. The hair sprays differed in their content of perfume and plasticizer, and since the latter is generally considered nontoxic at room temperature, the perfume may be the responsible agent. It would appear from this study that normal healthy individuals are at little risk, at least from brief exposure to hair spray; however, in the presence of hyperreactive airways, as seen in asthmatic subjects and in some people with allergic rhinitis and viral respiratory infections, an immediate response of the airways may result from exposure to some hair sprays.", "PMID": 436481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3180", "title": "A prospective study of mitral valvular prolapse in young men.", "content": "A cardiac history, a physical examination, an electrocardiogram, phonocardiograms in the supine and standing positions, and an M-mode echocardiogram were obtained in 100 randomly selected, presumably healthy, male medical students (mean age, 26 years). Four percent met standard echocardiographic criteria for mitral valvular prolapse. No midsystolic clicks or late systolic murmurs were appreciated in this group, and none complained of chest pain or palpitations. To elucidate further the clinical implication of the echocardiographic pattern of mitral valvular prolapse, 24-hour ambulatory ECGs, multistage exercise tests, and scintiscans of myocardial perfusion at rest and after exercise (using radioactive 13nitrogen-labelled ammonium) were obtained, with normal results. The absence of life-threatening arrhythmias and exercise-induced abnormalities in these four asymptomatic subjects without abnormal physical findings suggests that the echocardiographic pattern of mitral valvular prolapse in such individuals may represent a variant of normal which does not require extensive evaluation.", "contents": "A prospective study of mitral valvular prolapse in young men. A cardiac history, a physical examination, an electrocardiogram, phonocardiograms in the supine and standing positions, and an M-mode echocardiogram were obtained in 100 randomly selected, presumably healthy, male medical students (mean age, 26 years). Four percent met standard echocardiographic criteria for mitral valvular prolapse. No midsystolic clicks or late systolic murmurs were appreciated in this group, and none complained of chest pain or palpitations. To elucidate further the clinical implication of the echocardiographic pattern of mitral valvular prolapse, 24-hour ambulatory ECGs, multistage exercise tests, and scintiscans of myocardial perfusion at rest and after exercise (using radioactive 13nitrogen-labelled ammonium) were obtained, with normal results. The absence of life-threatening arrhythmias and exercise-induced abnormalities in these four asymptomatic subjects without abnormal physical findings suggests that the echocardiographic pattern of mitral valvular prolapse in such individuals may represent a variant of normal which does not require extensive evaluation.", "PMID": 436482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3181", "title": "Irradiation-induced pericarditis.", "content": "Three patients with pericarditis following therapeutic irradiation for malignant tumors were studied at autopsy. In one subject, death occurred five days after the last dose of radiation. The pericardial involvement was characterized by fibrinous exudation. This was more marked in degree over the right side of the heart than the left and corresponded with the field of irradiation. In the remaining two patients, two and four courses of radiation had been applied, the interval between the last dose and death being seven weeks in one patiet and 1 1/2 years in the other. The lesions were those of organizing pericarditis.", "contents": "Irradiation-induced pericarditis. Three patients with pericarditis following therapeutic irradiation for malignant tumors were studied at autopsy. In one subject, death occurred five days after the last dose of radiation. The pericardial involvement was characterized by fibrinous exudation. This was more marked in degree over the right side of the heart than the left and corresponded with the field of irradiation. In the remaining two patients, two and four courses of radiation had been applied, the interval between the last dose and death being seven weeks in one patiet and 1 1/2 years in the other. The lesions were those of organizing pericarditis.", "PMID": 436483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3182", "title": "Occurrence of frequent complex arrhythmias detected by ambulatory monitoring: findings in an apparently healthy asymptomatic elderly population.", "content": "In order to delineate the frequency of arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in a group of apparently healthy elderly people, 24-hour ambulatory ECG recordings were obtained on subjects recruited from the Veterans Administration Voluntary Service. Their ages ranged from 60--84 (average 69). It is concluded from this preliminary study that complex supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias occur in an apparently healthy elderly population. These findings must be taken into account in assessing the clinical significance of arrhythmias in an elderly population.", "contents": "Occurrence of frequent complex arrhythmias detected by ambulatory monitoring: findings in an apparently healthy asymptomatic elderly population. In order to delineate the frequency of arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in a group of apparently healthy elderly people, 24-hour ambulatory ECG recordings were obtained on subjects recruited from the Veterans Administration Voluntary Service. Their ages ranged from 60--84 (average 69). It is concluded from this preliminary study that complex supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias occur in an apparently healthy elderly population. These findings must be taken into account in assessing the clinical significance of arrhythmias in an elderly population.", "PMID": 436484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3183", "title": "Antimicrobial activity of antituberculosis agents against anaerobic bacteria.", "content": "Anaerobic infections may coexist with tuberculosis, and can be mistaken for one another. The effect of therapy with antituberculosis chemotherapeutic agents against anaerobic bacteria (with the exception of rifampin) is unknown. We therefore examined the in vitro efficacy of certain commonly used antituberculosis agents (rifampin, isoniazid, and ethambutol) against 370 strains of anaerobic bacteria, including 86 isolates of Bacteroides fragilis. Rifampin at a concentration of 2 microgram/ml inhibited 91 percent of all anaerobic isolates. Both ethambutol and isoniazid were totally ineffective against any of the anaerobes tested, even at 64 microgram/ml. Therapy with rifampin in an unsuspected anaerobic infection can be misdiagnosed for tuberculosis. Therefore, when tuberculosis is suspected, isoniazid and ethambutol can be used and rifampin withheld until the acid-fast bacilli are demonstrated by additional diagnostic procedures, such as transtracheal aspiration.", "contents": "Antimicrobial activity of antituberculosis agents against anaerobic bacteria. Anaerobic infections may coexist with tuberculosis, and can be mistaken for one another. The effect of therapy with antituberculosis chemotherapeutic agents against anaerobic bacteria (with the exception of rifampin) is unknown. We therefore examined the in vitro efficacy of certain commonly used antituberculosis agents (rifampin, isoniazid, and ethambutol) against 370 strains of anaerobic bacteria, including 86 isolates of Bacteroides fragilis. Rifampin at a concentration of 2 microgram/ml inhibited 91 percent of all anaerobic isolates. Both ethambutol and isoniazid were totally ineffective against any of the anaerobes tested, even at 64 microgram/ml. Therapy with rifampin in an unsuspected anaerobic infection can be misdiagnosed for tuberculosis. Therefore, when tuberculosis is suspected, isoniazid and ethambutol can be used and rifampin withheld until the acid-fast bacilli are demonstrated by additional diagnostic procedures, such as transtracheal aspiration.", "PMID": 436485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3184", "title": "Evaluation of criteria for diagnosis of myocardial infarction: study of 256 patients with intermittent left bundle branch block.", "content": "In an attempt to elucidate the specificity and sensitivity of atypical findings during left bundle branch block (LBBB) with respect to myocardial infarction (MI), we analyzed ECGs from patients with intermittent LBBB obtained by mail solicitation of cardiologists. The group consisted of 256 patient files fulfilling the following criteria: 1) complete LBBB present on one or more 12-lead ECGs, and 2) at leat one 12-lead ECG taken subsequent to a LBBB tracing exhibiting absence of LBBB (non-LBBB). The sensitivity of atypical LBBB for predicting presence of MI was 0.41, the specificity 0.64, and the accuracy 0.59. No specific atypical finding was significantly better than any other in predicting MI. We conclude that atypical findings present during LBBB are of little value in predicting the presence of MI (as diagnosed by significant Q waves present during non-LBBB conduction).", "contents": "Evaluation of criteria for diagnosis of myocardial infarction: study of 256 patients with intermittent left bundle branch block. In an attempt to elucidate the specificity and sensitivity of atypical findings during left bundle branch block (LBBB) with respect to myocardial infarction (MI), we analyzed ECGs from patients with intermittent LBBB obtained by mail solicitation of cardiologists. The group consisted of 256 patient files fulfilling the following criteria: 1) complete LBBB present on one or more 12-lead ECGs, and 2) at leat one 12-lead ECG taken subsequent to a LBBB tracing exhibiting absence of LBBB (non-LBBB). The sensitivity of atypical LBBB for predicting presence of MI was 0.41, the specificity 0.64, and the accuracy 0.59. No specific atypical finding was significantly better than any other in predicting MI. We conclude that atypical findings present during LBBB are of little value in predicting the presence of MI (as diagnosed by significant Q waves present during non-LBBB conduction).", "PMID": 436486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3185", "title": "Cardiac anatomy viewed systematically with two dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "The details of three-dimensional cardiac anatomy are complex, and structure recognition is difficult in tomograms produced with recently developed two-dimensional ultrasonic sector scanners. This article presents a method we have found useful for systematic inclusion of most cardiac structures during such echocardiographic examinations. Orthogonal planes, aligned parallel and perpendicular to the long or major left ventricular axis, are obtained from each of three transducer positions on the body surface. Moving this X-Y image plane through the heart perpendicular to the plane (z axis) allows the viewer to integrate the images into a mental picture of the whole structure. The illustrations are oriented as they are displayed by ultrasonic sector scanners so they aid rapid recognition of cardiac structures.", "contents": "Cardiac anatomy viewed systematically with two dimensional echocardiography. The details of three-dimensional cardiac anatomy are complex, and structure recognition is difficult in tomograms produced with recently developed two-dimensional ultrasonic sector scanners. This article presents a method we have found useful for systematic inclusion of most cardiac structures during such echocardiographic examinations. Orthogonal planes, aligned parallel and perpendicular to the long or major left ventricular axis, are obtained from each of three transducer positions on the body surface. Moving this X-Y image plane through the heart perpendicular to the plane (z axis) allows the viewer to integrate the images into a mental picture of the whole structure. The illustrations are oriented as they are displayed by ultrasonic sector scanners so they aid rapid recognition of cardiac structures.", "PMID": 436487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3186", "title": "Electrophysiologic study of the left ventricle: indications and safety.", "content": "Eighty patients (69 with documented or suspected recurrent ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, ten with left bundle-branch block, and one with the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome) underwent both right ventricular and left ventricular programmed electrical stimulation, including ventricular pacing and the introduction of one or two ventricular extrastimuli or electrode catheter mapping of the left ventricle (or both). Left ventricular catheters were introduced precutaneously via the femoral artery (of 61 patients, one required secondary repair) or via brachial arteriotomy (of 19 patients, two required secondary repair). All patients received an intravenously administered bolus of hep arin (5,000 units) following the insertion of the left ventricular catheter and then 1,000 units/hr after the first hour of study. No patients had cerebrovascular, systemic thromboembolic, or cardiac sequelae. In four (12 percent) of 34 patients with inductible ventricular tachycardia, programmed electrical stimulation of the left ventricle was required for initiation. Extensive left ventricular endocardial mapping was performed in 45 patients. Our experience suggests that (1) electrophysiologic study of the left ventricle can be performed safely, (2) programmed electrical stimulation of the left ventricle is indicated when a suspected ventricular tachyarrhythmia cannot be induced from the right ventricle, and (3) endocardial mapping of the left ventricle is indicated when surgery is being considered to abolish recurrent sustained ventricular tachycardia.", "contents": "Electrophysiologic study of the left ventricle: indications and safety. Eighty patients (69 with documented or suspected recurrent ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, ten with left bundle-branch block, and one with the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome) underwent both right ventricular and left ventricular programmed electrical stimulation, including ventricular pacing and the introduction of one or two ventricular extrastimuli or electrode catheter mapping of the left ventricle (or both). Left ventricular catheters were introduced precutaneously via the femoral artery (of 61 patients, one required secondary repair) or via brachial arteriotomy (of 19 patients, two required secondary repair). All patients received an intravenously administered bolus of hep arin (5,000 units) following the insertion of the left ventricular catheter and then 1,000 units/hr after the first hour of study. No patients had cerebrovascular, systemic thromboembolic, or cardiac sequelae. In four (12 percent) of 34 patients with inductible ventricular tachycardia, programmed electrical stimulation of the left ventricle was required for initiation. Extensive left ventricular endocardial mapping was performed in 45 patients. Our experience suggests that (1) electrophysiologic study of the left ventricle can be performed safely, (2) programmed electrical stimulation of the left ventricle is indicated when a suspected ventricular tachyarrhythmia cannot be induced from the right ventricle, and (3) endocardial mapping of the left ventricle is indicated when surgery is being considered to abolish recurrent sustained ventricular tachycardia.", "PMID": 436488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3187", "title": "Chronotropic and dromotropic effects of histamine on the canine heart.", "content": "The actions of 2-methylhistamine (H1 agonists), 4-methylhistamine (H2 agonist), and histamine were studied by selective perfusion of the sinus node artery and atrioventricular node artery in 75 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium. 2-Methylhistamine and histamine had variable and inconsistent effects on the sinus rate. 4-Methylhistamine (100 microgram/ml) produced acceleration of the sinus rate from 158 +/- 4 to 173 +/- 5 beats per minute (P less than 0.05) when perfused via the sinus node artery. The effects of the histamine agonists on atrioventricular junctional rhythms were similar to the effects on sinus rhythm. The response of the sinus node to vagal stimulation was attenuated by selective perfusion with histamine; however, the direct negatively chronotropic action of acetylcholine was not affected by histamine. Neither 2-methylhistamine nor 4-methylhistamine affected the response of the sinus node to vagal stimulations. Both 4-methylhistamine and histamine (but not 2-methylhistamine) attenuated (P less than 0.05) the response of the sinus node to stimulation of the right stellate ganglion. The positively chronotropic effects of directly perfused norepinephrine were unaffected by histamine or 4-methylhistamine. These results suggest a neural depressing action of histamine on autonomic efferent fibers. In the atrioventricular junction, both histamine and 2-methylhistamine (but not 4-methylhistamine) had negatively dromotropic effects. Cimetidine (an H2 antagonist) had no significant direct effects on the sinus rate or atrioventricular conduction and failed to prevent the acceleration of the sinus rate produced by local perfusion with 4-methylhistamine.", "contents": "Chronotropic and dromotropic effects of histamine on the canine heart. The actions of 2-methylhistamine (H1 agonists), 4-methylhistamine (H2 agonist), and histamine were studied by selective perfusion of the sinus node artery and atrioventricular node artery in 75 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium. 2-Methylhistamine and histamine had variable and inconsistent effects on the sinus rate. 4-Methylhistamine (100 microgram/ml) produced acceleration of the sinus rate from 158 +/- 4 to 173 +/- 5 beats per minute (P less than 0.05) when perfused via the sinus node artery. The effects of the histamine agonists on atrioventricular junctional rhythms were similar to the effects on sinus rhythm. The response of the sinus node to vagal stimulation was attenuated by selective perfusion with histamine; however, the direct negatively chronotropic action of acetylcholine was not affected by histamine. Neither 2-methylhistamine nor 4-methylhistamine affected the response of the sinus node to vagal stimulations. Both 4-methylhistamine and histamine (but not 2-methylhistamine) attenuated (P less than 0.05) the response of the sinus node to stimulation of the right stellate ganglion. The positively chronotropic effects of directly perfused norepinephrine were unaffected by histamine or 4-methylhistamine. These results suggest a neural depressing action of histamine on autonomic efferent fibers. In the atrioventricular junction, both histamine and 2-methylhistamine (but not 4-methylhistamine) had negatively dromotropic effects. Cimetidine (an H2 antagonist) had no significant direct effects on the sinus rate or atrioventricular conduction and failed to prevent the acceleration of the sinus rate produced by local perfusion with 4-methylhistamine.", "PMID": 436489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3188", "title": "False aneurysm of the right atrium.", "content": "A false aneurysm of the right atrium is described. The false aneurysm appeared after open-heart surgery and was probably related to loosening of a right atrial suture. Because of the low pressure in the right atrium, the danger of rupture seemed to be low, and conservative therapy was chosen.", "contents": "False aneurysm of the right atrium. A false aneurysm of the right atrium is described. The false aneurysm appeared after open-heart surgery and was probably related to loosening of a right atrial suture. Because of the low pressure in the right atrium, the danger of rupture seemed to be low, and conservative therapy was chosen.", "PMID": 436496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3189", "title": "Acute miliary blastomycosis presenting as fluminating respiratory failure.", "content": "A patient with miliary blastomycosis had acute fulminating respiratory failure requiring prolonged external ventilatory support. Treatment consisted of antifungal chemotherapy with two drugs and administration of corticosteroids. Restrictive ventilatory impairment and exercise-induced hypoxemia persist at one year after completion of therapy.", "contents": "Acute miliary blastomycosis presenting as fluminating respiratory failure. A patient with miliary blastomycosis had acute fulminating respiratory failure requiring prolonged external ventilatory support. Treatment consisted of antifungal chemotherapy with two drugs and administration of corticosteroids. Restrictive ventilatory impairment and exercise-induced hypoxemia persist at one year after completion of therapy.", "PMID": 436497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3190", "title": "Spontaneous resolution of mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst.", "content": "We report the findings in a 39-year-old man with alcoholic pancreatitis and a lower posterior mediastinal mass. Endoscopic retrograde pancreatographic and ultrasonographic studies permitted an unequivocal diagnosis of mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst. The pseudocyst resolved spontaneously five weeks after diagnosis, without specific therapy.", "contents": "Spontaneous resolution of mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst. We report the findings in a 39-year-old man with alcoholic pancreatitis and a lower posterior mediastinal mass. Endoscopic retrograde pancreatographic and ultrasonographic studies permitted an unequivocal diagnosis of mediastinal pancreatic pseudocyst. The pseudocyst resolved spontaneously five weeks after diagnosis, without specific therapy.", "PMID": 436498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3191", "title": "Effect of postural changes on pulsus alternans: an echocardiographic study.", "content": "We describe a patient who had severe left ventricular dysfunction and pulsus alternans following an episode of severe viral myocarditis. Pulsus alternans was mild with the patient in the supine and squatting positions but increased dramatically on standing. Echocardiograms were used to study changes in left ventricular dimension and function with changes in posture. On standing, there was a decrease in the left ventricular diameter and an increase in the absolute and relative shortening fraction and the velocity of shortening on the strong beats, and there was a decrease in end-diastolic dimension and the measurements of ventricular contractility on the weak beats. The marked increase in pulsus alternans during standing may have been induced by increased sympathetic stimulation following the decrease in ventricular loading conditions, while the great beat-to-beat differences in end-diastolic dimension suggest, in addition, the importance of Starling's mechanism.", "contents": "Effect of postural changes on pulsus alternans: an echocardiographic study. We describe a patient who had severe left ventricular dysfunction and pulsus alternans following an episode of severe viral myocarditis. Pulsus alternans was mild with the patient in the supine and squatting positions but increased dramatically on standing. Echocardiograms were used to study changes in left ventricular dimension and function with changes in posture. On standing, there was a decrease in the left ventricular diameter and an increase in the absolute and relative shortening fraction and the velocity of shortening on the strong beats, and there was a decrease in end-diastolic dimension and the measurements of ventricular contractility on the weak beats. The marked increase in pulsus alternans during standing may have been induced by increased sympathetic stimulation following the decrease in ventricular loading conditions, while the great beat-to-beat differences in end-diastolic dimension suggest, in addition, the importance of Starling's mechanism.", "PMID": 436499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3192", "title": "Psoriasis, sacroiliitis, and aortitis: an echocardiographic mimic of aortic root dissection.", "content": "A patient with psoriasis, HLA-B27-positive sacroiliitis, and aortitis presented with clinical features suggesting acute aortic dissecting aneurysm. Although M-mode and two dimensional echocardiography supported the diagnosis, dissection was excluded by angiography and by direct observation at surgery. Asymmetric thickening of the right coronary cusp secondary to psoriatic aortitis was found to be etiologic of both the regurgitation and the false-positive echo for dissection. It is emphasized that in the setting of any fibrocalcific or inflammatory disease of the aorta, the echo diagnosis of dissection is fraught with hazard.", "contents": "Psoriasis, sacroiliitis, and aortitis: an echocardiographic mimic of aortic root dissection. A patient with psoriasis, HLA-B27-positive sacroiliitis, and aortitis presented with clinical features suggesting acute aortic dissecting aneurysm. Although M-mode and two dimensional echocardiography supported the diagnosis, dissection was excluded by angiography and by direct observation at surgery. Asymmetric thickening of the right coronary cusp secondary to psoriatic aortitis was found to be etiologic of both the regurgitation and the false-positive echo for dissection. It is emphasized that in the setting of any fibrocalcific or inflammatory disease of the aorta, the echo diagnosis of dissection is fraught with hazard.", "PMID": 436502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3193", "title": "Endobronchial polyposis secondary to thermal inhalational injury.", "content": "A 28-year-old man who sustained inhalational injury in a house fire developed symptoms of chronic cough and hemoptysis requiring bronchoscopy. Two months after the initial injury, numerous endobronchial polyps were found in the trachea and throughout the bronchial tree. His symptoms have subsequently improved over a six-month period while receiving steroid therapy. To our knowledge, this delayed complication of inhalational burn injury has not been previously reported.", "contents": "Endobronchial polyposis secondary to thermal inhalational injury. A 28-year-old man who sustained inhalational injury in a house fire developed symptoms of chronic cough and hemoptysis requiring bronchoscopy. Two months after the initial injury, numerous endobronchial polyps were found in the trachea and throughout the bronchial tree. His symptoms have subsequently improved over a six-month period while receiving steroid therapy. To our knowledge, this delayed complication of inhalational burn injury has not been previously reported.", "PMID": 436503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3194", "title": "Course of pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.", "content": "Eighty-five patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, mainly chronic bronchitis (71 patients), who had arterial hypoxemia and moderate to severe obstruction of the airways underwent at least two right cardiac catheterizations in a clinical steady state, with a delay of three years or more between the first and the last catheterization. The average delay was 60 +/- 19 months (range, 36 to 119 months). Patients were regularly examined (quarterly clinical and functional checkups). The changes in pulmonary hemodynamic data were small. In the group of 53 patients with an initial mean pulmonary arterial pressure of 20 mm Hg or less, this pressure varied from 15.4 +/- 3.1 to 18.3 +/- 6.6 mm Hg (P less than 0.001); in the group of 32 patients with an initial mean pulmonary arterial pressure greater than 20 mm Hg, this pressure varied from 27.7 +/- 6.0 to 31.0 +/- 9.3 mm Hg (P less than 0.05). The mean pulmonary arterial pressure increased by 5 mm Hg or more in only 28 patients. In these patients with hemodynamic \"worsening,\" the final arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) was lower and the final arterial carbon dioxide tension was higher than in the remaining patients. A significant negative correlation (r = -0.39; P less than 0.001) was observed between changes in PaO2 and mean pulmonary arterial pressure. There was a generally good agreement between the course of pulmonary hemodynamics (mean pulmonary arterial pressure), on the one hand, and the clinical, radiologic (transverse diameter of the heart), and electrocardiographic evolution, on the other hand. In the 33 patients who died, a relatively long survival was observed after the first episode of right-sided heart failure or after ascertaining pulmonary hypertension.", "contents": "Course of pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Eighty-five patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, mainly chronic bronchitis (71 patients), who had arterial hypoxemia and moderate to severe obstruction of the airways underwent at least two right cardiac catheterizations in a clinical steady state, with a delay of three years or more between the first and the last catheterization. The average delay was 60 +/- 19 months (range, 36 to 119 months). Patients were regularly examined (quarterly clinical and functional checkups). The changes in pulmonary hemodynamic data were small. In the group of 53 patients with an initial mean pulmonary arterial pressure of 20 mm Hg or less, this pressure varied from 15.4 +/- 3.1 to 18.3 +/- 6.6 mm Hg (P less than 0.001); in the group of 32 patients with an initial mean pulmonary arterial pressure greater than 20 mm Hg, this pressure varied from 27.7 +/- 6.0 to 31.0 +/- 9.3 mm Hg (P less than 0.05). The mean pulmonary arterial pressure increased by 5 mm Hg or more in only 28 patients. In these patients with hemodynamic \"worsening,\" the final arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) was lower and the final arterial carbon dioxide tension was higher than in the remaining patients. A significant negative correlation (r = -0.39; P less than 0.001) was observed between changes in PaO2 and mean pulmonary arterial pressure. There was a generally good agreement between the course of pulmonary hemodynamics (mean pulmonary arterial pressure), on the one hand, and the clinical, radiologic (transverse diameter of the heart), and electrocardiographic evolution, on the other hand. In the 33 patients who died, a relatively long survival was observed after the first episode of right-sided heart failure or after ascertaining pulmonary hypertension.", "PMID": 436514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3195", "title": "Bronchostenosis due to sarcoidosis: a cause of atelectasis and airway obstruction simulating pulmonary neoplasm and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.", "content": "Ninety-nine patients with clinically and histopathologically established sarcoidosis were studied during the period of January 1971 to October 1977 using the bronchoscope. In 32 patients, biopsy of the bronchial mucosa showed a microscopic picture typical of sarcoidosis. In eight (8 percent) of the 99 patients, severe stenosis of the bronchi was seen. We conclude that bronchial sarcoidosis with multiple segmental or lobar stenosis can closely imitate the clinical picture of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Bronchostenosis in sarcoidosis can cause atelectasis visible on the chest x-ray film and thus closely simulate a pulmonary neoplasm.", "contents": "Bronchostenosis due to sarcoidosis: a cause of atelectasis and airway obstruction simulating pulmonary neoplasm and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ninety-nine patients with clinically and histopathologically established sarcoidosis were studied during the period of January 1971 to October 1977 using the bronchoscope. In 32 patients, biopsy of the bronchial mucosa showed a microscopic picture typical of sarcoidosis. In eight (8 percent) of the 99 patients, severe stenosis of the bronchi was seen. We conclude that bronchial sarcoidosis with multiple segmental or lobar stenosis can closely imitate the clinical picture of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Bronchostenosis in sarcoidosis can cause atelectasis visible on the chest x-ray film and thus closely simulate a pulmonary neoplasm.", "PMID": 436515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3196", "title": "Historic and angiographic features of young adults surviving myocardial infarction.", "content": "Sixty-eight survivors of myocardial infarction occurring before the age of 36 years were studied using selective coronary cinearteriograms, regardless of symptoms. Three groups of patients were delineated; 56 patients (82 percent) had obstructive coronary arterial disease, nine (13 percent) had normal coronary arteries, and three (4 percent) had congenital coronary arterial anomalies. Because the prognosis in these three groups is different, all young patients with myocardial infarction should undergo coronary arteriographic studies after a suitable period of convalescence. Myocardial infarction in the young differs from that in the elderly by virtue of a more heterogeneous underlying coronary anatomy, an overwhelming preponderance of male patients, and a better reported prognosis.", "contents": "Historic and angiographic features of young adults surviving myocardial infarction. Sixty-eight survivors of myocardial infarction occurring before the age of 36 years were studied using selective coronary cinearteriograms, regardless of symptoms. Three groups of patients were delineated; 56 patients (82 percent) had obstructive coronary arterial disease, nine (13 percent) had normal coronary arteries, and three (4 percent) had congenital coronary arterial anomalies. Because the prognosis in these three groups is different, all young patients with myocardial infarction should undergo coronary arteriographic studies after a suitable period of convalescence. Myocardial infarction in the young differs from that in the elderly by virtue of a more heterogeneous underlying coronary anatomy, an overwhelming preponderance of male patients, and a better reported prognosis.", "PMID": 436516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3197", "title": "A rational approach to ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in the neonate.", "content": "During a 23-month period, 25 premature infants underwent ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus performed in the neonatal intensive care unit utilizing a limited posterolateral muscle-retracting incision. This approach afforded adequate exposure with minimal surgical time and trauma. All infants manifested severe respiratory distress and congestive heart failure. Both standard and contrast echocardiographic studies were used for noninvasive preoperative evaluation. Echocardiographic study proved to be a highly reliable and sensitive indicator of ductal patency. Eight infants (32 percent) died at 8 to 225 days of age. The primary cause of death was progressive pulmonary disease with subsequent failure of multiple organ systems. Seventeen (68 percent) of the 25 infants survived to leave the hospital. Advantages of ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus in the neonatal intensive care unit include the elimination of problems of transportation (thermoregulation, ventilation, and loss of lines) and continuity of ongoing care and monitoring. The standard facilities of the neonatal intensive care unit proved completely satisfactory for ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus. Ligation in the neonatal intensive care unit is suggested to minimize potential complications of care in the operating room and transport of these critically ill infants.", "contents": "A rational approach to ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in the neonate. During a 23-month period, 25 premature infants underwent ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus performed in the neonatal intensive care unit utilizing a limited posterolateral muscle-retracting incision. This approach afforded adequate exposure with minimal surgical time and trauma. All infants manifested severe respiratory distress and congestive heart failure. Both standard and contrast echocardiographic studies were used for noninvasive preoperative evaluation. Echocardiographic study proved to be a highly reliable and sensitive indicator of ductal patency. Eight infants (32 percent) died at 8 to 225 days of age. The primary cause of death was progressive pulmonary disease with subsequent failure of multiple organ systems. Seventeen (68 percent) of the 25 infants survived to leave the hospital. Advantages of ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus in the neonatal intensive care unit include the elimination of problems of transportation (thermoregulation, ventilation, and loss of lines) and continuity of ongoing care and monitoring. The standard facilities of the neonatal intensive care unit proved completely satisfactory for ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus. Ligation in the neonatal intensive care unit is suggested to minimize potential complications of care in the operating room and transport of these critically ill infants.", "PMID": 436517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3198", "title": "Pulmonary manifestations in patients with malignant melanoma during BCG immunotherapy. A preliminary report.", "content": "Ten patients with malignant melanoma who were treated with bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG) were studied with chest roentgenograms, scintiscans with radioactive 67gallium citrate, and the single-breath diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (Dsb). Three patients (stage 1B) with normal findings had no evidence of progression of disease. Seven patients had abnormal findings on at least one test. Two patients (stage 3B and stage 4B) with focal uptake in the lungs on the scintiscan had metastatic melanoma. Three patients (stage 3B) with diffuse uptake on the scintiscan and a reduced Dsb had no evidence of progression of disease. One patient (stage 1B) with an abnormal chest roentgenogram had a benign pleural effusion, and one patient (stage 4B) with a reduced Dsb was free of melanoma. A diffuse increase in the uptake of radioactive 67gallium in the lungs and a low Dsb may not indicate progression of melanoma. On the other hand, a focal uptake of 67gallium in the lungs is highly suggestive of metastatic disease.", "contents": "Pulmonary manifestations in patients with malignant melanoma during BCG immunotherapy. A preliminary report. Ten patients with malignant melanoma who were treated with bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG) were studied with chest roentgenograms, scintiscans with radioactive 67gallium citrate, and the single-breath diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (Dsb). Three patients (stage 1B) with normal findings had no evidence of progression of disease. Seven patients had abnormal findings on at least one test. Two patients (stage 3B and stage 4B) with focal uptake in the lungs on the scintiscan had metastatic melanoma. Three patients (stage 3B) with diffuse uptake on the scintiscan and a reduced Dsb had no evidence of progression of disease. One patient (stage 1B) with an abnormal chest roentgenogram had a benign pleural effusion, and one patient (stage 4B) with a reduced Dsb was free of melanoma. A diffuse increase in the uptake of radioactive 67gallium in the lungs and a low Dsb may not indicate progression of melanoma. On the other hand, a focal uptake of 67gallium in the lungs is highly suggestive of metastatic disease.", "PMID": 436519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3199", "title": "Pulmonary reaction to upper mantle radiation therapy for Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "To study the effects of upper mantle radiation therapy on pulmonary function, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), vital capacity (VC), inspiratory capacity (IC), diffusing capacity for CO (DLCO) and diffusion per unit of alveolar volume (DL/VA were determined in 28 patients with Hodgkin's disease, stages 1--3, before therapy and at regular intervals thereafter. Within the first year of follow-up there were significant declines in DLCO, VC, and IC, whereas there were no significant changes in FEV1 or DL/VA. DLCO showed the greatest decline in the largest number of subjects (22/28). Eleven of the 22 had 20 to 60 percent decline of DLCO from baseline. The maximum mean decline in DLCO was -12.7 +/- 3 percent at the 87th +/- 3 days from initiation of therapy postradiation sustained through the 150th day and improving to pretreatment value (+/- 5 percent) by the 8th to 12th month. The changes in DLCO seemed to be independent of the radiation dose ranges evaluated, clinically apparent intrathoracic lymphoma, postradiation radiographic abnormalities and respiratory symptoms. We concluded that impairment in diffusing capacity and loss of vital capacity will develop in most patients receiving upper mantle radiation therapy, indicating that pulmonary reaction occurs despite lung shielding. The functional losses were prolonged and occasionally severe, but were transient and subclinical in most but not all cases. A case of fatal radiation pneumonitis affecting the lung beyond the field of irradiation is reported.", "contents": "Pulmonary reaction to upper mantle radiation therapy for Hodgkin's disease. To study the effects of upper mantle radiation therapy on pulmonary function, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), vital capacity (VC), inspiratory capacity (IC), diffusing capacity for CO (DLCO) and diffusion per unit of alveolar volume (DL/VA were determined in 28 patients with Hodgkin's disease, stages 1--3, before therapy and at regular intervals thereafter. Within the first year of follow-up there were significant declines in DLCO, VC, and IC, whereas there were no significant changes in FEV1 or DL/VA. DLCO showed the greatest decline in the largest number of subjects (22/28). Eleven of the 22 had 20 to 60 percent decline of DLCO from baseline. The maximum mean decline in DLCO was -12.7 +/- 3 percent at the 87th +/- 3 days from initiation of therapy postradiation sustained through the 150th day and improving to pretreatment value (+/- 5 percent) by the 8th to 12th month. The changes in DLCO seemed to be independent of the radiation dose ranges evaluated, clinically apparent intrathoracic lymphoma, postradiation radiographic abnormalities and respiratory symptoms. We concluded that impairment in diffusing capacity and loss of vital capacity will develop in most patients receiving upper mantle radiation therapy, indicating that pulmonary reaction occurs despite lung shielding. The functional losses were prolonged and occasionally severe, but were transient and subclinical in most but not all cases. A case of fatal radiation pneumonitis affecting the lung beyond the field of irradiation is reported.", "PMID": 436520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3200", "title": "Myocardial oxygen supply-demand ratio: a validation of peripherally vs centrally determined values.", "content": "We sought to validate that the supply-demand ratio for myocardial oxygen could be accurately measured from tracings of peripheral as well as central arterial pressure. This ratio was the ratio of the diastolic pressure-time-index (DPTI) over the systolic pressure-time index (SPTI). Sixteen patients had the peripheral DPTI/SPTI determined at cardiac catheterization by the following two different methods: (1) P1, using the mean diastolic and systolic peripheral arterial pressure and the ratio of the duration of diastole and systole; and (2) (P2, where the peak systolic and diastolic peripheral arterial pressures are used, eliminating the need for planimetric data. The results of P1 and P2 correlated closely with the central value (r = 0.96 and 0.92, respectively). We conclude that DPTI/SPTI can reliably be measured from a tracing of peripheral arterial pressure, enabling reliable continuous monitoring of this ratio.", "contents": "Myocardial oxygen supply-demand ratio: a validation of peripherally vs centrally determined values. We sought to validate that the supply-demand ratio for myocardial oxygen could be accurately measured from tracings of peripheral as well as central arterial pressure. This ratio was the ratio of the diastolic pressure-time-index (DPTI) over the systolic pressure-time index (SPTI). Sixteen patients had the peripheral DPTI/SPTI determined at cardiac catheterization by the following two different methods: (1) P1, using the mean diastolic and systolic peripheral arterial pressure and the ratio of the duration of diastole and systole; and (2) (P2, where the peak systolic and diastolic peripheral arterial pressures are used, eliminating the need for planimetric data. The results of P1 and P2 correlated closely with the central value (r = 0.96 and 0.92, respectively). We conclude that DPTI/SPTI can reliably be measured from a tracing of peripheral arterial pressure, enabling reliable continuous monitoring of this ratio.", "PMID": 436521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3201", "title": "Secundum atrial septal defect and significant mitral regurgitation: incidence, management and morphologic basis.", "content": "To better understand the association between mitral regurgitation and secundum atrial septal defect and to clarify the evaluation and management of these patients, the records of 235 adult patients with atrial septal defect were reviewed. Ten patients (4 percent) had significant mitral regurgitation defined by clinical, hemodynamic and angiographic criteria. Three patients required mitral valve replacement at the time of closure of the atrial septal defect and four patients had closure alone, one of whom required mitral valve replacement after five years. Three patients did not undergo closure of the atrial septal defect or mitral valve replacement because of severe coexisting medical problems. In six patients, the mitral valves were studied pathologically and all had thick, fibrotic leaflets and short, thick, fibrotic chordae tendineae. Three of these valves also had scattered areas of patchy myxomatous degeneration and three had areas of vascular ingrowth suggestive of rheumatic disease. Although both invasive and noninvasive studies have high-lighted the coincidence between atrial septal defect and mitral regurgitation, particularly the frequent association of mitral valve prolapse, our data indicate that this association rarely has clinical significance. Furthermore, the morphologic basis for mitral regurgitation in patients with atrial septal defect consists of leaflet and chordal thickening fibrosis and deformity rather than attenuation and ballooning as would be expected in mitral valve prolapse.", "contents": "Secundum atrial septal defect and significant mitral regurgitation: incidence, management and morphologic basis. To better understand the association between mitral regurgitation and secundum atrial septal defect and to clarify the evaluation and management of these patients, the records of 235 adult patients with atrial septal defect were reviewed. Ten patients (4 percent) had significant mitral regurgitation defined by clinical, hemodynamic and angiographic criteria. Three patients required mitral valve replacement at the time of closure of the atrial septal defect and four patients had closure alone, one of whom required mitral valve replacement after five years. Three patients did not undergo closure of the atrial septal defect or mitral valve replacement because of severe coexisting medical problems. In six patients, the mitral valves were studied pathologically and all had thick, fibrotic leaflets and short, thick, fibrotic chordae tendineae. Three of these valves also had scattered areas of patchy myxomatous degeneration and three had areas of vascular ingrowth suggestive of rheumatic disease. Although both invasive and noninvasive studies have high-lighted the coincidence between atrial septal defect and mitral regurgitation, particularly the frequent association of mitral valve prolapse, our data indicate that this association rarely has clinical significance. Furthermore, the morphologic basis for mitral regurgitation in patients with atrial septal defect consists of leaflet and chordal thickening fibrosis and deformity rather than attenuation and ballooning as would be expected in mitral valve prolapse.", "PMID": 436522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3202", "title": "Alveolar epithelial injury causing respiratory distress in dogs: physiologic and electron-microscopic correlations.", "content": "Structural and mechanical changes were correlated in 29 dogs with acute alveolar injury induced by the subcutaneous administration of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane (NNNMU). The injury was characterized by necrosis and repair of alveolar epithelium while the vascular endothelium remained essentially intact. Compliance of the lung (CL) decreased and elastic recoil increased as epithelial necrosis occurred. During recovery, improved elastic recoil coincided with epithelial regeneration, although CL remained abnormal. The late phase was characterized histologically by widespread closure of clusters of alveoli alternating with dilated small air spaces. The process resulted in distortion of lung architecture and resembled interstitial fibrosis. Reduced lung volume and decreased distensibility of dilated small air spaces may have accounted for the persistently abnormal CL. Because of the specific site of anatomic involvement, the predictable evolution of deranged lung mechanics, and the similarity to human lung injury (adult respiratory distress syndrome), the lung injured by administration of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane is a suitable model to study pathophysiology and types of therapy in a controlled setting.", "contents": "Alveolar epithelial injury causing respiratory distress in dogs: physiologic and electron-microscopic correlations. Structural and mechanical changes were correlated in 29 dogs with acute alveolar injury induced by the subcutaneous administration of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane (NNNMU). The injury was characterized by necrosis and repair of alveolar epithelium while the vascular endothelium remained essentially intact. Compliance of the lung (CL) decreased and elastic recoil increased as epithelial necrosis occurred. During recovery, improved elastic recoil coincided with epithelial regeneration, although CL remained abnormal. The late phase was characterized histologically by widespread closure of clusters of alveoli alternating with dilated small air spaces. The process resulted in distortion of lung architecture and resembled interstitial fibrosis. Reduced lung volume and decreased distensibility of dilated small air spaces may have accounted for the persistently abnormal CL. Because of the specific site of anatomic involvement, the predictable evolution of deranged lung mechanics, and the similarity to human lung injury (adult respiratory distress syndrome), the lung injured by administration of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane is a suitable model to study pathophysiology and types of therapy in a controlled setting.", "PMID": 436524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3203", "title": "Dysfunction of small airways following pulmonary injury due to nitrogen dioxide.", "content": "Serial physiologic studies were performed to characterize both the immediate and delayed effects of a single occupational exposure to nitrogen dioxide in a nonsmoker. During the initial acute stage of pulmonary edema, the abnormal static pressure-volume curve and decreased static compliance corresponded to a reduction in pulmonary volume. During the delayed acute stage, elastic recoil and properties of resistance to flow were normal, but dynamic compliance was reduced and dependent on respiratory frequency, and oxygen transport was abnormal during exercise, which is consistent with dysfunction of the small airways.", "contents": "Dysfunction of small airways following pulmonary injury due to nitrogen dioxide. Serial physiologic studies were performed to characterize both the immediate and delayed effects of a single occupational exposure to nitrogen dioxide in a nonsmoker. During the initial acute stage of pulmonary edema, the abnormal static pressure-volume curve and decreased static compliance corresponded to a reduction in pulmonary volume. During the delayed acute stage, elastic recoil and properties of resistance to flow were normal, but dynamic compliance was reduced and dependent on respiratory frequency, and oxygen transport was abnormal during exercise, which is consistent with dysfunction of the small airways.", "PMID": 436527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3204", "title": "Precipitation of heart failure following sudden withdrawal of hydralazine.", "content": "Sudden withdrawal of oral therapy with hydralazine for reduction of afterload in a patient precipitated severe congestive heart failure. Signs of metabolic encephalopathy evolved due to low cardiac output. Reinstitution of therapy with hydralazine resulted in prompt improvement in cardiac and neurologic status. This case underscores the need for careful follow-up of such patients and argues against sudden withdrawal of vasodilator therapy.", "contents": "Precipitation of heart failure following sudden withdrawal of hydralazine. Sudden withdrawal of oral therapy with hydralazine for reduction of afterload in a patient precipitated severe congestive heart failure. Signs of metabolic encephalopathy evolved due to low cardiac output. Reinstitution of therapy with hydralazine resulted in prompt improvement in cardiac and neurologic status. This case underscores the need for careful follow-up of such patients and argues against sudden withdrawal of vasodilator therapy.", "PMID": 436528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3205", "title": "Mixed pneumoconiosis: silicosis, asbestosis, talcosis, and berylliosis.", "content": "Mixed pneumoconiosis is pulmonary disease due to two or more inhaled mineral irritants. Chronic disease due to beryllium has not been a component of any described mixed pneumoconiosis. A man with occupational exposure to a combination of dusts developed severe pulmonary disease. Silicosis, talcosis, asbestosis, and berylliosis were all documented by an open biopsy of the lung. The varieties of mixed pneumoconiosis are summarized.", "contents": "Mixed pneumoconiosis: silicosis, asbestosis, talcosis, and berylliosis. Mixed pneumoconiosis is pulmonary disease due to two or more inhaled mineral irritants. Chronic disease due to beryllium has not been a component of any described mixed pneumoconiosis. A man with occupational exposure to a combination of dusts developed severe pulmonary disease. Silicosis, talcosis, asbestosis, and berylliosis were all documented by an open biopsy of the lung. The varieties of mixed pneumoconiosis are summarized.", "PMID": 436529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3206", "title": "Transient focal septal block.", "content": "A 65-year-old woman with an acute myocardial infarction, as judged by serial enzyme changes, developed transitory Q waves in leads V2 to V4 and leads 2, 3, and aVF during an attack of pain in the chest. These Q waves were not present 12 hours later. It is suggested that these changes represent a focal block in the septal fibers of the left bundle-branch system. This defect could underlie the transient right precordial Q waves seen in myocardial infarction or ischemia, as well as the fixed Q waves of many patients without septal infarction at autopsy.", "contents": "Transient focal septal block. A 65-year-old woman with an acute myocardial infarction, as judged by serial enzyme changes, developed transitory Q waves in leads V2 to V4 and leads 2, 3, and aVF during an attack of pain in the chest. These Q waves were not present 12 hours later. It is suggested that these changes represent a focal block in the septal fibers of the left bundle-branch system. This defect could underlie the transient right precordial Q waves seen in myocardial infarction or ischemia, as well as the fixed Q waves of many patients without septal infarction at autopsy.", "PMID": 436530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3207", "title": "Pulmonary edema following intracranial hemorrhage.", "content": "Hemodynamic changes and samples of fluid from pulmonary edema were studied in a 50-year-old woman who developed florid pulmonary edema following intracranial hemorrhage. Marked systemic and pulmonary arterial hypertension were associated with the rapid production of edema fluid that contained red blood cells, but had a lower protein content than plasma. After restoration of pulmonary vascular pressures to a normal range, the production of fluid ceased, and clinical signs of edema resolved. These findings point to the sudden increase in pulmonary microvascular pressure as the cause of pulmonary edema in this patient. Our findings contrast with those of previous reports and with speculations on the extent of a defect in permeability accounting for pulmonary edema following injury to the brain.", "contents": "Pulmonary edema following intracranial hemorrhage. Hemodynamic changes and samples of fluid from pulmonary edema were studied in a 50-year-old woman who developed florid pulmonary edema following intracranial hemorrhage. Marked systemic and pulmonary arterial hypertension were associated with the rapid production of edema fluid that contained red blood cells, but had a lower protein content than plasma. After restoration of pulmonary vascular pressures to a normal range, the production of fluid ceased, and clinical signs of edema resolved. These findings point to the sudden increase in pulmonary microvascular pressure as the cause of pulmonary edema in this patient. Our findings contrast with those of previous reports and with speculations on the extent of a defect in permeability accounting for pulmonary edema following injury to the brain.", "PMID": 436531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3208", "title": "Superior vena cava syndrome due to a retained central venous pressure catheter.", "content": "A 70-year-old man had the superior vena cava syndrome. At thoracotomy a retained central venous pressure line was found to be the cause of venous thrombosis at the outlet of the superior vena cava into the right atrium. A retained central venous pressure catheter and catheter-induced venous thrombosis should be added to the list of causes of the benign form of the superior vena cava syndrome.", "contents": "Superior vena cava syndrome due to a retained central venous pressure catheter. A 70-year-old man had the superior vena cava syndrome. At thoracotomy a retained central venous pressure line was found to be the cause of venous thrombosis at the outlet of the superior vena cava into the right atrium. A retained central venous pressure catheter and catheter-induced venous thrombosis should be added to the list of causes of the benign form of the superior vena cava syndrome.", "PMID": 436532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3209", "title": "Pathologic findings and long-term sequelae in Legionnaires' disease.", "content": "A recently recognized sporadic case of Legionnaires' disease occurring in North Carolina is described. Diagnosis was made by special serologic studies performed at the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta. The light-microscopic and electron-microscopic findings are described. Organisms consistent with the etiologic agents of Legionnaires' disease were seen by electron microscopic examination. An eight-month follow-up in this case still showed the presence of some radiologic abnormalities of the pulmonary parynchema, as well as abnormal data on tests of pulmonary function.", "contents": "Pathologic findings and long-term sequelae in Legionnaires' disease. A recently recognized sporadic case of Legionnaires' disease occurring in North Carolina is described. Diagnosis was made by special serologic studies performed at the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta. The light-microscopic and electron-microscopic findings are described. Organisms consistent with the etiologic agents of Legionnaires' disease were seen by electron microscopic examination. An eight-month follow-up in this case still showed the presence of some radiologic abnormalities of the pulmonary parynchema, as well as abnormal data on tests of pulmonary function.", "PMID": 436533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3210", "title": "Apical fibrobullous disease with rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "We describe a patient who developed noninfectious apical fibrobullous disease 12 years after the diagnosis of seropositive, nodular, deforming rheumatoid arthritis. Fibrobullous disease of the pulmonary apices is a rare entity that is usually found in association with ankylosing spondylitis. Its appearance with rheumatoid arthritis has not been reported. Speculative factors which may predispose to apical fibrobullous disease, such as a stiff chest wall, impaired esophageal motiligy, and HL-A antigen B27, were not present in our patient.", "contents": "Apical fibrobullous disease with rheumatoid arthritis. We describe a patient who developed noninfectious apical fibrobullous disease 12 years after the diagnosis of seropositive, nodular, deforming rheumatoid arthritis. Fibrobullous disease of the pulmonary apices is a rare entity that is usually found in association with ankylosing spondylitis. Its appearance with rheumatoid arthritis has not been reported. Speculative factors which may predispose to apical fibrobullous disease, such as a stiff chest wall, impaired esophageal motiligy, and HL-A antigen B27, were not present in our patient.", "PMID": 436534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3211", "title": "Interpreting Parents Anonymous as a source of help for those with child abuse problems.", "content": "A study of reasons for joining the self-help group offers some considerations and guidelines for child welfare workers recommending this step to clients.", "contents": "Interpreting Parents Anonymous as a source of help for those with child abuse problems. A study of reasons for joining the self-help group offers some considerations and guidelines for child welfare workers recommending this step to clients.", "PMID": 436551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3212", "title": "A network of services for severely disturbed adolescents.", "content": "A centralized network of facilities offering a comprehensive package of treatment modalities avoids the difficulties involved in the coordination of scattered services.", "contents": "A network of services for severely disturbed adolescents. A centralized network of facilities offering a comprehensive package of treatment modalities avoids the difficulties involved in the coordination of scattered services.", "PMID": 436552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3213", "title": "An estimate of nationwide incidence of sexual offenses against children.", "content": "Complete data are lacking for accurately estimating sexual offenses against children on a national scale, but projections from statistics available indicate the magnitude of the social problem.", "contents": "An estimate of nationwide incidence of sexual offenses against children. Complete data are lacking for accurately estimating sexual offenses against children on a national scale, but projections from statistics available indicate the magnitude of the social problem.", "PMID": 436553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3214", "title": "Preschoolers entering foster care in New York City: the need to stress plans for permanency.", "content": "Analysis of data furnished by a computer system makes clear the need for special programs to plan permanency for infants and young children in foster care. A report on New York upstate data is appended to this article.", "contents": "Preschoolers entering foster care in New York City: the need to stress plans for permanency. Analysis of data furnished by a computer system makes clear the need for special programs to plan permanency for infants and young children in foster care. A report on New York upstate data is appended to this article.", "PMID": 436554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3215", "title": "Obstacles encountered in permanent planning for foster children.", "content": "Mandatory periodic review of cases of children in foster care is a promising method of preventing children from languishing in limbo, but achieving permanent planning involves difficult decisions.", "contents": "Obstacles encountered in permanent planning for foster children. Mandatory periodic review of cases of children in foster care is a promising method of preventing children from languishing in limbo, but achieving permanent planning involves difficult decisions.", "PMID": 436556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3216", "title": "Removal of status offenders from the juvenile justice system: the Florida experience.", "content": "In 1975 Florida transferred jurisdiction over runaway, truant or ungovernable children from the juvenile justice system to the child welfare system. This paper reports on the results of decriminalization.", "contents": "Removal of status offenders from the juvenile justice system: the Florida experience. In 1975 Florida transferred jurisdiction over runaway, truant or ungovernable children from the juvenile justice system to the child welfare system. This paper reports on the results of decriminalization.", "PMID": 436557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3217", "title": "Continuity of treatment and the County Department of Social Services.", "content": "Restructuring of the service delivery system in county departments of social services is proposed to accommodate the changes that followed separation of those services and public assistance.", "contents": "Continuity of treatment and the County Department of Social Services. Restructuring of the service delivery system in county departments of social services is proposed to accommodate the changes that followed separation of those services and public assistance.", "PMID": 436559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3218", "title": "Staff conflicts over use of authority in residential settings.", "content": "Confusion and controversy over the role of authority in treatment and limit setting can undermine staff morale and weaken a residential program.", "contents": "Staff conflicts over use of authority in residential settings. Confusion and controversy over the role of authority in treatment and limit setting can undermine staff morale and weaken a residential program.", "PMID": 436560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3219", "title": "A child welfare agency project: therapy for families of status offenders.", "content": "A pilot project providing therapy for families of status-offender youths has proved effective in reducing placements and costs.", "contents": "A child welfare agency project: therapy for families of status offenders. A pilot project providing therapy for families of status-offender youths has proved effective in reducing placements and costs.", "PMID": 436561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3220", "title": "Spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma in a youngster.", "content": "The case of an 8-year-old boy with spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma and complete post-operative recovery is described. A review of the literature with particular emphasis on the paediatric age-group is given. The clinical presentation and aetiology are discussed.", "contents": "Spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma in a youngster. The case of an 8-year-old boy with spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma and complete post-operative recovery is described. A review of the literature with particular emphasis on the paediatric age-group is given. The clinical presentation and aetiology are discussed.", "PMID": 436562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3221", "title": "Early surgical intervention in posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus.", "content": "10 premature infants were found to have posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) over a 4-year period. All weighed less than 2,500 g. The diagnosis was established by ventricular puncture and ventriculogram. Ventriculo-peritoneal (V-P) shunt placement was done in each infant soon after establishing the diagnosis, while the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was bloody. The mean age of infants at surgery was 21.4 days (range 16-33 days). Shunt obstruction occurred in 3 infants and infection in 1. No other complication was observed. All infants improved markedly in the immediate postoperative period, especially respirator-dependent infants. All survived; preliminary follow-up revealed that 3 were severely retarded and 2 mildly retarded; 5 infants were normal. Our preliminary experience with early V-P shunt procedure in the treatment of PHH has been favorable and follow-up appears encouraging.", "contents": "Early surgical intervention in posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus. 10 premature infants were found to have posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) over a 4-year period. All weighed less than 2,500 g. The diagnosis was established by ventricular puncture and ventriculogram. Ventriculo-peritoneal (V-P) shunt placement was done in each infant soon after establishing the diagnosis, while the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was bloody. The mean age of infants at surgery was 21.4 days (range 16-33 days). Shunt obstruction occurred in 3 infants and infection in 1. No other complication was observed. All infants improved markedly in the immediate postoperative period, especially respirator-dependent infants. All survived; preliminary follow-up revealed that 3 were severely retarded and 2 mildly retarded; 5 infants were normal. Our preliminary experience with early V-P shunt procedure in the treatment of PHH has been favorable and follow-up appears encouraging.", "PMID": 436563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3222", "title": "Successful surgical treatment of pontine vascular malformation in a 3-year old. Case report.", "content": "A 3-year-old male presented with progressive right hemiparesis. Clinical and radiological studies suggested the diagnosis of brain stem glioma. At surgery, a small vascular malformation of the pons was encountered. Although rare, vascular malformations must be considered in the differential diagnosis of brain stem masses.", "contents": "Successful surgical treatment of pontine vascular malformation in a 3-year old. Case report. A 3-year-old male presented with progressive right hemiparesis. Clinical and radiological studies suggested the diagnosis of brain stem glioma. At surgery, a small vascular malformation of the pons was encountered. Although rare, vascular malformations must be considered in the differential diagnosis of brain stem masses.", "PMID": 436564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3223", "title": "Subtemporal decompression for the slit-ventricle syndrome after shunting in hydrocephalic children.", "content": "During the past 2 years, we have performed subtemporal decompression to deal with recurrent shunt obstruction in 22 hydrocephalic patients with the slit-ventricle syndrome. 13 patients have been followed-up for more than 1 year and 2 others for more than 2 years. The frequency of hospitalization for shunt-revision has been greatly reduced. These results confirm that subtemporal craniectomy is useful in the treatment of patients in whom this syndrome develops.", "contents": "Subtemporal decompression for the slit-ventricle syndrome after shunting in hydrocephalic children. During the past 2 years, we have performed subtemporal decompression to deal with recurrent shunt obstruction in 22 hydrocephalic patients with the slit-ventricle syndrome. 13 patients have been followed-up for more than 1 year and 2 others for more than 2 years. The frequency of hospitalization for shunt-revision has been greatly reduced. These results confirm that subtemporal craniectomy is useful in the treatment of patients in whom this syndrome develops.", "PMID": 436565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3224", "title": "Hydrocephalus and elevated intracranial venous pressure. Case report.", "content": "An infant with a large arteriovenous malformation and communicating hydrocephalus is described. The author suggests that the hydrocephalus is caused by impaired absorption of cerebrospinal fluid due to increased intracranial venous pressure.", "contents": "Hydrocephalus and elevated intracranial venous pressure. Case report. An infant with a large arteriovenous malformation and communicating hydrocephalus is described. The author suggests that the hydrocephalus is caused by impaired absorption of cerebrospinal fluid due to increased intracranial venous pressure.", "PMID": 436566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3225", "title": "On the pathology of experimental hydrocephalus induced by artificial increase in endoventricular CSF pulse pressure.", "content": "In lambs, acute and chronic communicating hydrocephalus has been created by merely increasing the amplitude of the intraventricular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsations, leaving the mean CSF pressure unchanged. The pathologic changes occurring in this type of hydrocephalus do not differ qualitatively from those observed in obstructive hydrocephalus. Beside demonstrating a direct role of ventricular pulsations in the ventricular dilation, the observed findings indicate that an increase in mean CSF pressure is not a necessary condition for the occurrence of the hydrocephalus. Consequently, the hypothesis of abnormal high intraventricular CSF pressure oscillations at the basis of the ventricular dilation of normal pressure hydrocephalic patients, receives a significant support. Further support is provided is provided by considering the recorded experimental pathological lesions are quite similar to those observed in normal pressure hydrocephalic patients with patent subarachnoid CSF pathways.", "contents": "On the pathology of experimental hydrocephalus induced by artificial increase in endoventricular CSF pulse pressure. In lambs, acute and chronic communicating hydrocephalus has been created by merely increasing the amplitude of the intraventricular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsations, leaving the mean CSF pressure unchanged. The pathologic changes occurring in this type of hydrocephalus do not differ qualitatively from those observed in obstructive hydrocephalus. Beside demonstrating a direct role of ventricular pulsations in the ventricular dilation, the observed findings indicate that an increase in mean CSF pressure is not a necessary condition for the occurrence of the hydrocephalus. Consequently, the hypothesis of abnormal high intraventricular CSF pressure oscillations at the basis of the ventricular dilation of normal pressure hydrocephalic patients, receives a significant support. Further support is provided is provided by considering the recorded experimental pathological lesions are quite similar to those observed in normal pressure hydrocephalic patients with patent subarachnoid CSF pathways.", "PMID": 436567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3226", "title": "Teratocarcinoma of the brain -- a treatable disease?", "content": "Teratocarcinoma of the brain is a rare teratoid tumor. Less than 100 cases have been previously reported and only 4 were patients with tumors in the lateral ventricular system. At the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 2 patients with teratocarcinoma of the lateral ventricle of the brain have been treated in the past 5 years and both are long-term survivors. A third patient with a recurrence at University Hospital is now receiving chemotherapy. Our experience suggests that a combination of radical surgery, supervoltage radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be successful in controlling these neoplasms. Furthermore, since there is increasing evidence that they have a strong histologic relationship to the embryonal carcinomas that arise in the testes and elsewhere, it appears logical to apply chemotherapeutic strategies to these intracranial neoplasms based on experience with such tumors located in other regions of the body.", "contents": "Teratocarcinoma of the brain -- a treatable disease? Teratocarcinoma of the brain is a rare teratoid tumor. Less than 100 cases have been previously reported and only 4 were patients with tumors in the lateral ventricular system. At the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 2 patients with teratocarcinoma of the lateral ventricle of the brain have been treated in the past 5 years and both are long-term survivors. A third patient with a recurrence at University Hospital is now receiving chemotherapy. Our experience suggests that a combination of radical surgery, supervoltage radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be successful in controlling these neoplasms. Furthermore, since there is increasing evidence that they have a strong histologic relationship to the embryonal carcinomas that arise in the testes and elsewhere, it appears logical to apply chemotherapeutic strategies to these intracranial neoplasms based on experience with such tumors located in other regions of the body.", "PMID": 436568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3227", "title": "[Hypothyroid, iodine-deficient goitre in neonates (author's transl)].", "content": "Within one year 1750 mature neonates were examined for congenital hypothyroidism. The region of G\u00f6ttingen is known to be an iodine-deficient one. Sixteen goitrous, hypothyroid neonates with a low total thyroxine, and raised serum TSH concentration were first diagnosed through this screening programme. As a result of the intra-uterine iodine deficiency, serum triiodothyronine concentration was elevated while urinary iodine excretion was reduced compared with euthyroid neonates. During iodine treatment the size of the thyroid became normal within eight days, TSH after 3.8 days and serum thyroxine after three days. Serum triiodothyronine concentration remained elevated for several weeks, presumably as a result of the persisting iodine deficiency. The results indicate that a neonatal screening programme for hypothyroidism is as essential as adding iodine to table salt for avoiding neonatal and foetal maldevelopment.", "contents": "[Hypothyroid, iodine-deficient goitre in neonates (author's transl)]. Within one year 1750 mature neonates were examined for congenital hypothyroidism. The region of G\u00f6ttingen is known to be an iodine-deficient one. Sixteen goitrous, hypothyroid neonates with a low total thyroxine, and raised serum TSH concentration were first diagnosed through this screening programme. As a result of the intra-uterine iodine deficiency, serum triiodothyronine concentration was elevated while urinary iodine excretion was reduced compared with euthyroid neonates. During iodine treatment the size of the thyroid became normal within eight days, TSH after 3.8 days and serum thyroxine after three days. Serum triiodothyronine concentration remained elevated for several weeks, presumably as a result of the persisting iodine deficiency. The results indicate that a neonatal screening programme for hypothyroidism is as essential as adding iodine to table salt for avoiding neonatal and foetal maldevelopment.", "PMID": 436587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3228", "title": "[Results of reconstruction of the carotid artery (author's transl)].", "content": "In 90 patients a total of 100 reconstructions of the carotid artery had been performed between 1972 and 1977. No patient died from the operation, 3 suffered central nervous complications, and 33 had transitory defects of cranial nerves. These defects were reversible in all but two patients. After an average observation period of 20 months 11 patients had died (6 from cardiac infarction, 2 from stroke, and 3 from unknown reasons). Of the 31 patients with clinical stage II, 24 were without symptoms, 5 had only rare transient ischaemic attacks, and two patients had the same frequency of attacks as preoperatively. Among the 39 stage III patients 35 showed complete or partial regression of symptoms whereas 4 had had repeat strokes. 55 of the 59 corrected stenoses were patent as shown by Doppler ultrasound. In contrast attempts to correct complete internal carotid artery occlusions showed unsatisfactory results.", "contents": "[Results of reconstruction of the carotid artery (author's transl)]. In 90 patients a total of 100 reconstructions of the carotid artery had been performed between 1972 and 1977. No patient died from the operation, 3 suffered central nervous complications, and 33 had transitory defects of cranial nerves. These defects were reversible in all but two patients. After an average observation period of 20 months 11 patients had died (6 from cardiac infarction, 2 from stroke, and 3 from unknown reasons). Of the 31 patients with clinical stage II, 24 were without symptoms, 5 had only rare transient ischaemic attacks, and two patients had the same frequency of attacks as preoperatively. Among the 39 stage III patients 35 showed complete or partial regression of symptoms whereas 4 had had repeat strokes. 55 of the 59 corrected stenoses were patent as shown by Doppler ultrasound. In contrast attempts to correct complete internal carotid artery occlusions showed unsatisfactory results.", "PMID": 436588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3229", "title": "[The saralasin test in the diagnosis of hypertension (author's transl)].", "content": "The saralasin test was performed in 68 hypertensives. A clear-cut dependence of the test results on initial plasma-renin concentration and particular sodium balance was demonstrated. Because of this dependence the saralasin test should be performed only under constant conditions. A mild stimulation of the renin-angiotension system by salt restriction to a mean sodium excretion of 50 mmol daily and 80 mg furosemide by mouth 12 hours before the test seems best. In this way essential and renovascular hypertension could be distinguished with considerable reliability (P less than 0.001). Among patients with essential hypertension one could clearly separate those with high plasma-renin concentration from those with a normal or low one. Among patients with renovascular hypertension those with haemodynamically significant renal artery stenosis could with high probability be distinguished from those with non-effective stenosis. A positive saralasin test without testing the function of the normal contralateral kidney does not provide an indication for operation.", "contents": "[The saralasin test in the diagnosis of hypertension (author's transl)]. The saralasin test was performed in 68 hypertensives. A clear-cut dependence of the test results on initial plasma-renin concentration and particular sodium balance was demonstrated. Because of this dependence the saralasin test should be performed only under constant conditions. A mild stimulation of the renin-angiotension system by salt restriction to a mean sodium excretion of 50 mmol daily and 80 mg furosemide by mouth 12 hours before the test seems best. In this way essential and renovascular hypertension could be distinguished with considerable reliability (P less than 0.001). Among patients with essential hypertension one could clearly separate those with high plasma-renin concentration from those with a normal or low one. Among patients with renovascular hypertension those with haemodynamically significant renal artery stenosis could with high probability be distinguished from those with non-effective stenosis. A positive saralasin test without testing the function of the normal contralateral kidney does not provide an indication for operation.", "PMID": 436589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3230", "title": "[Clinically unrecognised tuberculosis in autopsy material (author's transl)].", "content": "Among 18,724 unselected postmortems performed between 1955 and 1975 811 (4.33%) cases of post-primary tuberculosis were found among which 370 (45.6%) were active and 441 (54.4%) inactive. Occurrence of death involved tuberculosis in 32% of all cases discovered at autopsy. The age group over 50 years was mainly affected and males were clearly more frequently involved, particularly in pulmonary tuberculosis. 333 cases of tuberculosis (41.1%) had been recognised clinically and had mainly consisted of chronic pulmonary forms. In the older age group the proportion of cases diagnosed prior to death decreased steadily. Tuberculosis was associated with other diseases in most patients, particularly with cardiovascular disease and malignant tumours. During the investigation period the number of patients with active tuberculosis decreased. The number of cases of miliary tuberculosis among the active forms remained approximately the same.", "contents": "[Clinically unrecognised tuberculosis in autopsy material (author's transl)]. Among 18,724 unselected postmortems performed between 1955 and 1975 811 (4.33%) cases of post-primary tuberculosis were found among which 370 (45.6%) were active and 441 (54.4%) inactive. Occurrence of death involved tuberculosis in 32% of all cases discovered at autopsy. The age group over 50 years was mainly affected and males were clearly more frequently involved, particularly in pulmonary tuberculosis. 333 cases of tuberculosis (41.1%) had been recognised clinically and had mainly consisted of chronic pulmonary forms. In the older age group the proportion of cases diagnosed prior to death decreased steadily. Tuberculosis was associated with other diseases in most patients, particularly with cardiovascular disease and malignant tumours. During the investigation period the number of patients with active tuberculosis decreased. The number of cases of miliary tuberculosis among the active forms remained approximately the same.", "PMID": 436599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3231", "title": "[Hairy cell leukaemia (author's transl)].", "content": "Among 12 patients with hairy cell leukaemia two died without splenectomy and two more 11 months and 7 1/2 years after the operation. In all patients removal of hypersplenism led to improvement of haematological criteria over several months up to many years. This was particularly true for platelets and granulocytes and thus for the proneness to infection and haemorrhagic diathesis. In two patients normalisation of all haematological parameters including histologically scarcely detectable hairy cells was observed. Differential diagnosis from prolymphocyte leukaemia is difficult. Nuclear morphology permits recognition of different degrees of maturation of hairy cells. In cases where tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) cannot be demonstrated cytologically, demonstration of isoenzyme 5 is sometimes possible using gel electrophoresis. Demonstration of TRAP remains valuable for the diagnosis of hairy cell leukaemia, however only in connection with other criteria indicating this form of leukaemia.", "contents": "[Hairy cell leukaemia (author's transl)]. Among 12 patients with hairy cell leukaemia two died without splenectomy and two more 11 months and 7 1/2 years after the operation. In all patients removal of hypersplenism led to improvement of haematological criteria over several months up to many years. This was particularly true for platelets and granulocytes and thus for the proneness to infection and haemorrhagic diathesis. In two patients normalisation of all haematological parameters including histologically scarcely detectable hairy cells was observed. Differential diagnosis from prolymphocyte leukaemia is difficult. Nuclear morphology permits recognition of different degrees of maturation of hairy cells. In cases where tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) cannot be demonstrated cytologically, demonstration of isoenzyme 5 is sometimes possible using gel electrophoresis. Demonstration of TRAP remains valuable for the diagnosis of hairy cell leukaemia, however only in connection with other criteria indicating this form of leukaemia.", "PMID": 436600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3232", "title": "[Hair growth, liver function and light sensitivity during oral retinoid therapy for psoriasis (author's transl)].", "content": "In a multicentre, cooperative study into the treatment of extensive psoriasis with a new aromatic retinoid (Ro 10--9359) trichogram, liver function tests and the light erythema threshold were investigated. In some of the patients hair loss occurred, usually in the fifth to eighth week after a total dose of 1.9 g retinoid. In all cases this improved an average of six weeks after dose reduction or cessation of treatment. The trichogram in 27 patients showed a diffuse toxic hair loss. In 70% the effluvium was telogenic, in 22% telogen-dystrophic. GPT, GOT, alkaline phosphatase and prothrombin index showed no significant alterations during retinoid treatment. However, in individual cases there was a rise in GOT and GPT up to 80 U/l. Furthermore there was a statistical tendency in rising bilirubin levels. Finally there was no evidence for an increase in light sensitivity after three weeks of retinoid treatment. Measurement of the erythema threshold showed rather more a reduction in light sensitivity under treatment.", "contents": "[Hair growth, liver function and light sensitivity during oral retinoid therapy for psoriasis (author's transl)]. In a multicentre, cooperative study into the treatment of extensive psoriasis with a new aromatic retinoid (Ro 10--9359) trichogram, liver function tests and the light erythema threshold were investigated. In some of the patients hair loss occurred, usually in the fifth to eighth week after a total dose of 1.9 g retinoid. In all cases this improved an average of six weeks after dose reduction or cessation of treatment. The trichogram in 27 patients showed a diffuse toxic hair loss. In 70% the effluvium was telogenic, in 22% telogen-dystrophic. GPT, GOT, alkaline phosphatase and prothrombin index showed no significant alterations during retinoid treatment. However, in individual cases there was a rise in GOT and GPT up to 80 U/l. Furthermore there was a statistical tendency in rising bilirubin levels. Finally there was no evidence for an increase in light sensitivity after three weeks of retinoid treatment. Measurement of the erythema threshold showed rather more a reduction in light sensitivity under treatment.", "PMID": 436601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3233", "title": "[Treatment of open cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis (author's transl)].", "content": "In two groups, each of 40 patients, with previously untreated cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis the following treatment schemes were compared in a randomised clinical study: isoniazid, ethambutol, and rifampicin (control group) and isoprodian with rifampicin (study group). Bacteriologic and radiographic parameters showed that in the study group the results were at least as good as in the control group. Symptoms of drug intolerance were equally rare in both groups.", "contents": "[Treatment of open cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis (author's transl)]. In two groups, each of 40 patients, with previously untreated cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis the following treatment schemes were compared in a randomised clinical study: isoniazid, ethambutol, and rifampicin (control group) and isoprodian with rifampicin (study group). Bacteriologic and radiographic parameters showed that in the study group the results were at least as good as in the control group. Symptoms of drug intolerance were equally rare in both groups.", "PMID": 436602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3234", "title": "[On the question of cortisol administration in adrenocortical insufficiency (author's transl)].", "content": "The question whether clinically normal adrenal cortical function can be satisfactorily checked by laboratory studies during substitution treatment with adrenocortical hormones was investigated in 39 patients with adrenal insufficiency. The routine measurement of serum cortisol levels (2 to maximally 7 hours after the morning dose of hydrocortisone or cortisone acetate) revealed marked individual variations which were relatively independent of the morning dosage. Similar extreme variations were found for free urinary corticoids in 24-hour urine. Both values could not be correlated with the clinically individualised and satisfactory long-term substitution dosage and cannot be used, therefore, in the customary manner to assess a normal hormonal state. It appears unlikely that such information can altogether be obtained from plasma levels.", "contents": "[On the question of cortisol administration in adrenocortical insufficiency (author's transl)]. The question whether clinically normal adrenal cortical function can be satisfactorily checked by laboratory studies during substitution treatment with adrenocortical hormones was investigated in 39 patients with adrenal insufficiency. The routine measurement of serum cortisol levels (2 to maximally 7 hours after the morning dose of hydrocortisone or cortisone acetate) revealed marked individual variations which were relatively independent of the morning dosage. Similar extreme variations were found for free urinary corticoids in 24-hour urine. Both values could not be correlated with the clinically individualised and satisfactory long-term substitution dosage and cannot be used, therefore, in the customary manner to assess a normal hormonal state. It appears unlikely that such information can altogether be obtained from plasma levels.", "PMID": 436613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3235", "title": "[Myelography with metrizamide (author's transl)].", "content": "Metrizamide is a non-ionised, water soluble, and completely absorbable contrast medium which can be used to demonstrate all sections of the spinal canal. The previous strict separation between water soluble, ionised media for the lumbal canal and oily media for the lumbosacral junction as well as the thoracic and cervical canal is no longer necessary. Experience in 110 patients shows that if a suitable concentration is chosen all segments of the spinal canal can be adequately investigated using the lumbal route. The application of contrast media via a lateral cervical entry or suboccipital puncture was not necessary in a single case. Side effects in the form of adhesive arachnoiditis were not observed.", "contents": "[Myelography with metrizamide (author's transl)]. Metrizamide is a non-ionised, water soluble, and completely absorbable contrast medium which can be used to demonstrate all sections of the spinal canal. The previous strict separation between water soluble, ionised media for the lumbal canal and oily media for the lumbosacral junction as well as the thoracic and cervical canal is no longer necessary. Experience in 110 patients shows that if a suitable concentration is chosen all segments of the spinal canal can be adequately investigated using the lumbal route. The application of contrast media via a lateral cervical entry or suboccipital puncture was not necessary in a single case. Side effects in the form of adhesive arachnoiditis were not observed.", "PMID": 436614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3236", "title": "[Biological availability of digoxin and beta-acetyldigoxin after single-dose administration (author's transl)].", "content": "The biological availability of digoxin tablets (Lanicor) and beta-acetyldigoxin tablets (Novodigal) was tested after single-dose administration. Plasma levels over 48 hours, the area under the blood-level curves and the cumulative urinary excretion over seven days served as a measure of biological availability. The area under the blood-level curve after 1.0 mg digoxin by mouth was 40.7 +/- 1.7 ng . ml-1 . h and after 1.0 mg beta-acetyldigoxin by mouth 39.1 +/- 1.4 ng . ml-1 h, compared with 56.1 +/- 1.4 after 1.0 mg digoxin intravenously. Seven days later 0.67 +/- 0.12 mg digoxin of the orally administered digoxin, 0.68 +/- 0.12 mg digoxin of the orally administered beta-acetyldigoxin and 0.81 +/- 0.08 mg of the intravenously administered digoxin were excreted in the urine. There was no significant difference in the biological availability of the two drugs (P greater than 0.05).", "contents": "[Biological availability of digoxin and beta-acetyldigoxin after single-dose administration (author's transl)]. The biological availability of digoxin tablets (Lanicor) and beta-acetyldigoxin tablets (Novodigal) was tested after single-dose administration. Plasma levels over 48 hours, the area under the blood-level curves and the cumulative urinary excretion over seven days served as a measure of biological availability. The area under the blood-level curve after 1.0 mg digoxin by mouth was 40.7 +/- 1.7 ng . ml-1 . h and after 1.0 mg beta-acetyldigoxin by mouth 39.1 +/- 1.4 ng . ml-1 h, compared with 56.1 +/- 1.4 after 1.0 mg digoxin intravenously. Seven days later 0.67 +/- 0.12 mg digoxin of the orally administered digoxin, 0.68 +/- 0.12 mg digoxin of the orally administered beta-acetyldigoxin and 0.81 +/- 0.08 mg of the intravenously administered digoxin were excreted in the urine. There was no significant difference in the biological availability of the two drugs (P greater than 0.05).", "PMID": 436626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3237", "title": "[Diagnostic significance of lactate concentration in CSF in patients with meningitis (author's transl)].", "content": "White-cell count and differential blood count, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase activity (E.C. 1.1.1.27) and lactate concentration were determined in 496 CSF samples, obtained by lumbar puncture. Lactate was measured with a new enzymatic test. Reference values were determined for lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (90% limits: 1.2-2.1 mmol/l and 6-26 U/l, respectively). Lactate content proved to be best in the differential diagnosis between acute bacterial and abacterial meningitis: concentrations of 3.5 mmol/ml and above were found exclusively in bacterial meningitis. As for other diseases, markedly increased lactate concentrations were measured only in patients with brain tumour or cerebrovascular disease (up to 9.3 mmol/l). Determination of lactate concentration alone would have led to a misdiagnosis of acute bacterial meningitis in 3% of cases. If the CSF contains 3.5 mmol/l lactate or more and the leucocyte cell count is above 800/microliter, brain tumour or cerebrovascular disease can be practically excluded and the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis made with a high degree of reliability.", "contents": "[Diagnostic significance of lactate concentration in CSF in patients with meningitis (author's transl)]. White-cell count and differential blood count, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase activity (E.C. 1.1.1.27) and lactate concentration were determined in 496 CSF samples, obtained by lumbar puncture. Lactate was measured with a new enzymatic test. Reference values were determined for lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (90% limits: 1.2-2.1 mmol/l and 6-26 U/l, respectively). Lactate content proved to be best in the differential diagnosis between acute bacterial and abacterial meningitis: concentrations of 3.5 mmol/ml and above were found exclusively in bacterial meningitis. As for other diseases, markedly increased lactate concentrations were measured only in patients with brain tumour or cerebrovascular disease (up to 9.3 mmol/l). Determination of lactate concentration alone would have led to a misdiagnosis of acute bacterial meningitis in 3% of cases. If the CSF contains 3.5 mmol/l lactate or more and the leucocyte cell count is above 800/microliter, brain tumour or cerebrovascular disease can be practically excluded and the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis made with a high degree of reliability.", "PMID": 436627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3238", "title": "[Prodromal symptoms of acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)].", "content": "75 out of 100 patients who had survived myocardial infarction, had had prodromal symptoms. 62 patients reported specific prodromi such as first manifestations of angina pectoris or increase in duration and intensity of angina pectoris which had existed for some time previously, and in some cases had been accompanied by general complaints. A further 13 patients had only general symptoms such as onset of dyspnoea, palpitations, or a drop in performance during the 3 months prior to the infarct. The primary manifestation of symptoms consisted of exercise-induced angina pectoris at the beginning of the defined prodromal period in most cases, whereas later in the course manifestations occurred in the form of exercise-independent and spontaneous angina pectoris. In 9 patients symptomatology changed and exercise-induced angina transformed either into spontaneous angina pectoris or permanent pectanginous pain. In 8 of these 9 patients infarction occurred within less than a week after the change of symptoms. Prodromi occurred with approximately the same frequency in anterior and posterior wall infarction. The same applied to the distribution between transmural and non-transmural infarction.", "contents": "[Prodromal symptoms of acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)]. 75 out of 100 patients who had survived myocardial infarction, had had prodromal symptoms. 62 patients reported specific prodromi such as first manifestations of angina pectoris or increase in duration and intensity of angina pectoris which had existed for some time previously, and in some cases had been accompanied by general complaints. A further 13 patients had only general symptoms such as onset of dyspnoea, palpitations, or a drop in performance during the 3 months prior to the infarct. The primary manifestation of symptoms consisted of exercise-induced angina pectoris at the beginning of the defined prodromal period in most cases, whereas later in the course manifestations occurred in the form of exercise-independent and spontaneous angina pectoris. In 9 patients symptomatology changed and exercise-induced angina transformed either into spontaneous angina pectoris or permanent pectanginous pain. In 8 of these 9 patients infarction occurred within less than a week after the change of symptoms. Prodromi occurred with approximately the same frequency in anterior and posterior wall infarction. The same applied to the distribution between transmural and non-transmural infarction.", "PMID": 436634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3239", "title": "[A comparison of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (author's transl)].", "content": "Results of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) with the Chiba needle were compared with those obtained by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). PTC was used in 102 cases, most often after ERCP had been inconclusive or had failed. Overall success rate of PTC was 79%. Contrast medium could be injected in only 66% of cases with normal-sized bile passages, but in 98% of those with enlarged passages. The most frequent side effect was temporary pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant. One patient had transitory severe peritoneal irritation with shock. Emergency operation was never required. PTC is technically simpler, takes less time and causes less stress to the patient, but it is less informative than ERCP. If, therefore, both methods are mastered technically, ERCP should be employed first. If it fails to provide the diagnosis, PTC can be performed at once. Biliojejunal anastomoses and pancreatic pseudocysts are absolute indications for the primary use of PTC to investigate the cause of biliary stasis. On the other hand, allergies to iodine or contrast medium and disorders of coagulation are absolute indications for ERCP.", "contents": "[A comparison of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (author's transl)]. Results of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) with the Chiba needle were compared with those obtained by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). PTC was used in 102 cases, most often after ERCP had been inconclusive or had failed. Overall success rate of PTC was 79%. Contrast medium could be injected in only 66% of cases with normal-sized bile passages, but in 98% of those with enlarged passages. The most frequent side effect was temporary pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant. One patient had transitory severe peritoneal irritation with shock. Emergency operation was never required. PTC is technically simpler, takes less time and causes less stress to the patient, but it is less informative than ERCP. If, therefore, both methods are mastered technically, ERCP should be employed first. If it fails to provide the diagnosis, PTC can be performed at once. Biliojejunal anastomoses and pancreatic pseudocysts are absolute indications for the primary use of PTC to investigate the cause of biliary stasis. On the other hand, allergies to iodine or contrast medium and disorders of coagulation are absolute indications for ERCP.", "PMID": 436645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3240", "title": "[Candida coxitis (author's transl)].", "content": "Following drug-induced agranulocytosis and antibiotic and steroid treatment, sepsis due to candida albicans together with bilateral fungal coxitis developed in a 41-year-old female patient. Satisfactory eradication of the inflammatory process was achieved with combined treatment with amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine, so that mobilisation was possible after surgical fitting of bilateral total endoprothesis.", "contents": "[Candida coxitis (author's transl)]. Following drug-induced agranulocytosis and antibiotic and steroid treatment, sepsis due to candida albicans together with bilateral fungal coxitis developed in a 41-year-old female patient. Satisfactory eradication of the inflammatory process was achieved with combined treatment with amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine, so that mobilisation was possible after surgical fitting of bilateral total endoprothesis.", "PMID": 436646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3241", "title": "[A simple method for determining blood-glucose levels in diabetic out-patients (author's transl)].", "content": "24 hour blood-sugar profiles were obtained in 25 diabetic out-patients. The samples were obtained by the patients themselves even when at work, the glucose-level measurements in the laboratory. The relative differences between duplicate values was less than 10%. The results obtained made it possible to alter the treatment regimen so that, on average, there was a marked reduction in blood-sugar variations during the day.", "contents": "[A simple method for determining blood-glucose levels in diabetic out-patients (author's transl)]. 24 hour blood-sugar profiles were obtained in 25 diabetic out-patients. The samples were obtained by the patients themselves even when at work, the glucose-level measurements in the laboratory. The relative differences between duplicate values was less than 10%. The results obtained made it possible to alter the treatment regimen so that, on average, there was a marked reduction in blood-sugar variations during the day.", "PMID": 436653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3242", "title": "[Demonstration of left-ventricular contraction anomalies with the two-dimensional sector-scanner (author's transl)].", "content": "Echocardiographic findings were compared with those obtained by cardiac catheterisation in 134 patients. Echocardiography was performed in the standard plane of the long and short axes, as well as from the cardiac apex. After dividing the left ventricle into several segments wall movement was measured in them and compared with those obtained by ventricular angiography in the right and left anterior oblique positions. It was found that in patients with left-ventricular aneurysm, proven by left ventricular angio, there was complete conformity with regard to localisation and extent of the aneurysm between the two methods of investigation. In this group 79% of the demonstrated segments could be adequately assessed and, in 91%, agreed with the radiological findings. In the group of patients without aneurysm only 68% of the segments could be adequately assessed, and 77% correctly assessed wall movement when compared with the laevocardiogram. Tracing recorded from the cardiac apex gave especially good results in demonstrating the ventricle and its segments.", "contents": "[Demonstration of left-ventricular contraction anomalies with the two-dimensional sector-scanner (author's transl)]. Echocardiographic findings were compared with those obtained by cardiac catheterisation in 134 patients. Echocardiography was performed in the standard plane of the long and short axes, as well as from the cardiac apex. After dividing the left ventricle into several segments wall movement was measured in them and compared with those obtained by ventricular angiography in the right and left anterior oblique positions. It was found that in patients with left-ventricular aneurysm, proven by left ventricular angio, there was complete conformity with regard to localisation and extent of the aneurysm between the two methods of investigation. In this group 79% of the demonstrated segments could be adequately assessed and, in 91%, agreed with the radiological findings. In the group of patients without aneurysm only 68% of the segments could be adequately assessed, and 77% correctly assessed wall movement when compared with the laevocardiogram. Tracing recorded from the cardiac apex gave especially good results in demonstrating the ventricle and its segments.", "PMID": 436654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3243", "title": "[Resorption, distribution and excretion of the Bulgarian preparation, adepren, in experimental animals].", "content": "The authors carried out studies of the original Bulgarian preparation Adepren on male rats Wistar with a weight of 170-200 gm. Single groups of animals were treated singly with venous doses respectively 2,5 and 10 mg/kg of body weight, but other three groups with oral administration of 10, 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight. The content of the preparation was determined after decapitation of the rats at various intervals of time in plasma, brain, liver and kidneys. Excretion was examined in urine and feces for a period of four days and nights (in metabolic cages). There was a slow resorption of Adepren in the gastro-intestinal tract. The preparation underwent biotransformation in the organism of the rats after oral usage and the basic metabolite was 4-aminocholine, excreted in urine. Adepren and its metabolites were excreted in rats mainly through urine.", "contents": "[Resorption, distribution and excretion of the Bulgarian preparation, adepren, in experimental animals]. The authors carried out studies of the original Bulgarian preparation Adepren on male rats Wistar with a weight of 170-200 gm. Single groups of animals were treated singly with venous doses respectively 2,5 and 10 mg/kg of body weight, but other three groups with oral administration of 10, 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight. The content of the preparation was determined after decapitation of the rats at various intervals of time in plasma, brain, liver and kidneys. Excretion was examined in urine and feces for a period of four days and nights (in metabolic cages). There was a slow resorption of Adepren in the gastro-intestinal tract. The preparation underwent biotransformation in the organism of the rats after oral usage and the basic metabolite was 4-aminocholine, excreted in urine. Adepren and its metabolites were excreted in rats mainly through urine.", "PMID": 436706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3244", "title": "[Morphological changes in the myocardium after thymectomy].", "content": "The authors followed in dynamics the systolic arterial blood pressure and morphometric changes in the myocardium (cardiac, index, mean number of myocardial cells per unit of area c I mm2, mean diameter of the myocardial cells of the papillary muscles and subendocardial laer of the left ventricle) in thymectomized and sham thymectomized rats. The studies were made after thymectomy and sham thymectomy on the second, sixth, twelfth and sixteenth week. The systolic arterial blood pressure in thymectomized rats was elevated gradually and reached up to 170 mmHg on the sixteenth week, but it was in normal ranges in sham thymectomized animals. The cardiac index and mean diameter of the myocardial cells were larger in thymectomized rats, but the mean number of cells was smaller in comparison with sham thymectomized animals-results showing development of myocardial hyperthrophy after thymectomy. The induced myocardial changes were probably of adaptive character and could be due to neurohormonal mechanisms and hemodynamic loading of the heart becuase of the elevated arterial blood pressure after thymectomy.", "contents": "[Morphological changes in the myocardium after thymectomy]. The authors followed in dynamics the systolic arterial blood pressure and morphometric changes in the myocardium (cardiac, index, mean number of myocardial cells per unit of area c I mm2, mean diameter of the myocardial cells of the papillary muscles and subendocardial laer of the left ventricle) in thymectomized and sham thymectomized rats. The studies were made after thymectomy and sham thymectomy on the second, sixth, twelfth and sixteenth week. The systolic arterial blood pressure in thymectomized rats was elevated gradually and reached up to 170 mmHg on the sixteenth week, but it was in normal ranges in sham thymectomized animals. The cardiac index and mean diameter of the myocardial cells were larger in thymectomized rats, but the mean number of cells was smaller in comparison with sham thymectomized animals-results showing development of myocardial hyperthrophy after thymectomy. The induced myocardial changes were probably of adaptive character and could be due to neurohormonal mechanisms and hemodynamic loading of the heart becuase of the elevated arterial blood pressure after thymectomy.", "PMID": 436707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3245", "title": "[Arterial scleroproteins in atherosclerosis and hypertension (experimental studies)].", "content": "The authors examined neosynthesis of fiber proteins (scleroproteins) in the aorta of rats with genetic hypertonia and with experimental atherosclerosis after application of 3H-proline and 3H-lysine and subsequent determination of radioactivity of collagenous and elastic in the aortic wall. There was a great increase in incorporation a labelled precursors of collagen and elastin in the aorta of hypertonic and atherosclerotic animals in comparison with the control rats-a manifestation of increased \"de novo\" synthesis of fiber proteins in rats with these arterial diseases. Furthermore the increased collagenosis dominated over that of elastogenesis. The irregularity in the activation of biosynthesis of both sclero-proteins in rats with hypertonia and atherosclerosis caused remodeling of macromolecular structure of the aretrial wall with a predominance of collagen over the remaining components of the connective tissue matrix. The resulting fibrosis of the arterial wall favoured the fixation of hypertonia and progression of atherosclerosis.", "contents": "[Arterial scleroproteins in atherosclerosis and hypertension (experimental studies)]. The authors examined neosynthesis of fiber proteins (scleroproteins) in the aorta of rats with genetic hypertonia and with experimental atherosclerosis after application of 3H-proline and 3H-lysine and subsequent determination of radioactivity of collagenous and elastic in the aortic wall. There was a great increase in incorporation a labelled precursors of collagen and elastin in the aorta of hypertonic and atherosclerotic animals in comparison with the control rats-a manifestation of increased \"de novo\" synthesis of fiber proteins in rats with these arterial diseases. Furthermore the increased collagenosis dominated over that of elastogenesis. The irregularity in the activation of biosynthesis of both sclero-proteins in rats with hypertonia and atherosclerosis caused remodeling of macromolecular structure of the aretrial wall with a predominance of collagen over the remaining components of the connective tissue matrix. The resulting fibrosis of the arterial wall favoured the fixation of hypertonia and progression of atherosclerosis.", "PMID": 436708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3246", "title": "[Changes in the transverse striated musculature during treatment with the pesticide, Neguvon, and TMB-4 reactivator].", "content": "The authors found that the contractile activity of isolated myofibers as-well as superprecipitation of myosin B were reduced after intoxication of white rats with 1/2 of dose of LD50 of neguvon. The reaktivator of cholinesterase TMB-4 (20 mg/kg) recovered the contractile capability of myofibres even on the third day after treatment, but superprecipitation of myosin B-after the twentieth day.", "contents": "[Changes in the transverse striated musculature during treatment with the pesticide, Neguvon, and TMB-4 reactivator]. The authors found that the contractile activity of isolated myofibers as-well as superprecipitation of myosin B were reduced after intoxication of white rats with 1/2 of dose of LD50 of neguvon. The reaktivator of cholinesterase TMB-4 (20 mg/kg) recovered the contractile capability of myofibres even on the third day after treatment, but superprecipitation of myosin B-after the twentieth day.", "PMID": 436709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3247", "title": "[Disturbances in the processes of division and differentiation of the spermatopoietic epithelium in chronic Ramrod poisoning].", "content": "The authors examined histomorphologic changes in the spermatopoietic epithelium in white rats during a chronic a 4-and 6-month intoxication with the herbacide ramrod, used in doses of 1/20, 1/100 and 1/200 of LD50. The authors found that the preparation, known as moderate toxic pesticide, inhibited spermatopoesis at the phase of the formation of spermatids, caused disorganization of seminal epithelium and occurrence of irregular dividing forms. There was dystrophic-degenerativ changes in sex tissue during longer intoxication as well as occurrence of multinuclear gigantic cells. Disturbance in the kynetics of the mitotic division of spermatogonium and blockade of meiosis at its early phases were found as well. The authors assumed that damages in spermatopoiesis were due to distrubed metabolism of the whole organism. An important role was given to the vascular changes, which induced secondary enhancement of the metabolic disturbances in the gonads.", "contents": "[Disturbances in the processes of division and differentiation of the spermatopoietic epithelium in chronic Ramrod poisoning]. The authors examined histomorphologic changes in the spermatopoietic epithelium in white rats during a chronic a 4-and 6-month intoxication with the herbacide ramrod, used in doses of 1/20, 1/100 and 1/200 of LD50. The authors found that the preparation, known as moderate toxic pesticide, inhibited spermatopoesis at the phase of the formation of spermatids, caused disorganization of seminal epithelium and occurrence of irregular dividing forms. There was dystrophic-degenerativ changes in sex tissue during longer intoxication as well as occurrence of multinuclear gigantic cells. Disturbance in the kynetics of the mitotic division of spermatogonium and blockade of meiosis at its early phases were found as well. The authors assumed that damages in spermatopoiesis were due to distrubed metabolism of the whole organism. An important role was given to the vascular changes, which induced secondary enhancement of the metabolic disturbances in the gonads.", "PMID": 436710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3248", "title": "[Change in ion transport across the epithelium of the frog skin isolated from the body].", "content": "The authors carried out measurements of ionic transport through the epithelium on preparations of isolated and nonisolated skin by the method of Ussing and Zerahn (short-circuiting technique). The blood and nervous connection with the body was preserved in some of the skin preparations (nonisolated) during the experiment. For the purpose the two chambers of Ussing were modified in such a way that this connection could not be interrepted becuase of compression of blood vessels and nerves. Comparative measurements showed that isolation of the skin from the body of a frog caused significant reduction of active transport of ions through the skin epithelium. After addition of acethylcholine, eserine or dipterex to the solution of the internal or external surface of the preparation the nonisolated skins revealed statisticaly not proven tendency to greater reactivity.", "contents": "[Change in ion transport across the epithelium of the frog skin isolated from the body]. The authors carried out measurements of ionic transport through the epithelium on preparations of isolated and nonisolated skin by the method of Ussing and Zerahn (short-circuiting technique). The blood and nervous connection with the body was preserved in some of the skin preparations (nonisolated) during the experiment. For the purpose the two chambers of Ussing were modified in such a way that this connection could not be interrepted becuase of compression of blood vessels and nerves. Comparative measurements showed that isolation of the skin from the body of a frog caused significant reduction of active transport of ions through the skin epithelium. After addition of acethylcholine, eserine or dipterex to the solution of the internal or external surface of the preparation the nonisolated skins revealed statisticaly not proven tendency to greater reactivity.", "PMID": 436711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3249", "title": "[Method of determining tissue renin activity using heterologous serum].", "content": "The authors described a method for determination of tissue renin activity with heterologous substrate. The preparation of the substrate was performed at several stages: salting with amonium sulfate; dialisis of the precipitate till complete separation of amonium sulfate molecules; distruction of angiotensinases by interchangeble souring and alcalization of the medium; lyophylization of the pure substrate. The obtained renin-substrate was preserved in ampules and its usage had a series of advantages--duration, economic, a possibility for standartization of the determination, etc., which were described in details in the article. The described in details also the quantitative determination of the renin activity in the tissues (renal and cerebral) with the help of the obtained substrate as the moments, modiied by the authors, were indicated.", "contents": "[Method of determining tissue renin activity using heterologous serum]. The authors described a method for determination of tissue renin activity with heterologous substrate. The preparation of the substrate was performed at several stages: salting with amonium sulfate; dialisis of the precipitate till complete separation of amonium sulfate molecules; distruction of angiotensinases by interchangeble souring and alcalization of the medium; lyophylization of the pure substrate. The obtained renin-substrate was preserved in ampules and its usage had a series of advantages--duration, economic, a possibility for standartization of the determination, etc., which were described in details in the article. The described in details also the quantitative determination of the renin activity in the tissues (renal and cerebral) with the help of the obtained substrate as the moments, modiied by the authors, were indicated.", "PMID": 436712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3250", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics of the original Bulgarian preparation, tempidon, in experimental animals].", "content": "The authors carried out a pharmacokynetic study on the Bulgarian preparation Tempidone in rats. They examined resorption, distribution and excretion of the preparation in urine, bile and feces of rat after venous and oral administration. The experiments were carried out on 207 white male rats of the Wistar strain, weighting from 160 to 180 gm. Blood samples were obtained at various intervals from the onset of venous administration of the preparation in a dose of 100 mg/kg of body weight. After oral administration of the dose of 125 mg/kg of body weight in addition to blood samples other samples from brain, liver, stomach and intestines (small and large) were obtained as well. Excretion of Tempidone through the bile was examined after intraperitoneal administration of 250 mg/kg of body weight. They proposed pharmakynetic models after venous and oral administration of Tempidone. The obtained results gave evaluation for the rate, with which the distribution processes in the organism of rats occurred. Pharmacologic action of Tempidone coinceded in time with the creation and support of effective plasma concentrations. The wide distribution and preservation of Tempidone in the tissues suggested that it underwent the so called tissue binding.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics of the original Bulgarian preparation, tempidon, in experimental animals]. The authors carried out a pharmacokynetic study on the Bulgarian preparation Tempidone in rats. They examined resorption, distribution and excretion of the preparation in urine, bile and feces of rat after venous and oral administration. The experiments were carried out on 207 white male rats of the Wistar strain, weighting from 160 to 180 gm. Blood samples were obtained at various intervals from the onset of venous administration of the preparation in a dose of 100 mg/kg of body weight. After oral administration of the dose of 125 mg/kg of body weight in addition to blood samples other samples from brain, liver, stomach and intestines (small and large) were obtained as well. Excretion of Tempidone through the bile was examined after intraperitoneal administration of 250 mg/kg of body weight. They proposed pharmakynetic models after venous and oral administration of Tempidone. The obtained results gave evaluation for the rate, with which the distribution processes in the organism of rats occurred. Pharmacologic action of Tempidone coinceded in time with the creation and support of effective plasma concentrations. The wide distribution and preservation of Tempidone in the tissues suggested that it underwent the so called tissue binding.", "PMID": 436713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3251", "title": "Characterization of cholinergic control of vasopressin release by the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system.", "content": "Acetylcholine and nicotine stimulated vasopressin (VP) release from the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system (HNS). Nicotinic antagonists, hexamethonium, tetraethylammonium chloride, and trimethaphan blocked VP release in response to acetylcholine and nicotine. A muscarinic agonist, methacholine, was ineffective in eliciting VP release from HNS explants at a molar concentration equal to the maximally effective concentration of acetylcholine (10(-5) M). Atropine, a muscarinic antagonist, was an ineffective blocking agent for acetylcholine. These data indicate that the cholinergic receptor in the HNS explant is nicotinic rather than muscarinic in character.", "contents": "Characterization of cholinergic control of vasopressin release by the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system. Acetylcholine and nicotine stimulated vasopressin (VP) release from the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system (HNS). Nicotinic antagonists, hexamethonium, tetraethylammonium chloride, and trimethaphan blocked VP release in response to acetylcholine and nicotine. A muscarinic agonist, methacholine, was ineffective in eliciting VP release from HNS explants at a molar concentration equal to the maximally effective concentration of acetylcholine (10(-5) M). Atropine, a muscarinic antagonist, was an ineffective blocking agent for acetylcholine. These data indicate that the cholinergic receptor in the HNS explant is nicotinic rather than muscarinic in character.", "PMID": 436724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3252", "title": "Steroid metabolism by the lung: conversion of dihydrotestosterone to 5 alpha-androstan-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol by rat lung tissue in vitro.", "content": "The potential of lung tissue of adult male rats metabolize dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in vitro was examined. Within 3 min, a homogenate of 100 mg lung tissue, cleared of blood by perfusion before homogenization, metabolized 90% of the [3H]DHT substrate. Appoximately 80% of the DHT was converted to 5 alpha-androstan- alpha, 17 beta-diol. The amount of 5 alpha-androstan-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol formed during a 5-min incubation increased linearly, with substrate concentrations ranging from 3.3 x 10(-8) to 3 x 10(-6) M. Thus, the capacity of rat lung tissue to metabolize DHT in vitro and the rate of 3 alpha-reduction of DHT are sufficiently great to consider the possibility that lung may be responsible for the rapid clearance of DHT from the circulation in this species.", "contents": "Steroid metabolism by the lung: conversion of dihydrotestosterone to 5 alpha-androstan-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol by rat lung tissue in vitro. The potential of lung tissue of adult male rats metabolize dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in vitro was examined. Within 3 min, a homogenate of 100 mg lung tissue, cleared of blood by perfusion before homogenization, metabolized 90% of the [3H]DHT substrate. Appoximately 80% of the DHT was converted to 5 alpha-androstan- alpha, 17 beta-diol. The amount of 5 alpha-androstan-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol formed during a 5-min incubation increased linearly, with substrate concentrations ranging from 3.3 x 10(-8) to 3 x 10(-6) M. Thus, the capacity of rat lung tissue to metabolize DHT in vitro and the rate of 3 alpha-reduction of DHT are sufficiently great to consider the possibility that lung may be responsible for the rapid clearance of DHT from the circulation in this species.", "PMID": 436725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3253", "title": "Early effects of thyrotropin on ribonucleic acid transcription in the thyroid.", "content": "Previous studies on the effects of TSH on the incorporation of labeled precursors into RNA have demonstrated an increase in the percentage of label in the phosphorylated nucleotide precursors of RNA. To avoid this nonspecific effect of TSH, we chose to measure RNA transcription in a system which uses exogenous phosphorylated precursors. Isolated nuclei were prepared from the thyroids of dogs which had been injected 90 min earlier with TSH. TSH caused a mean increase of 168% above control in total transcriptional activity, 193% in polymerase II-mediated (alpha-amanitin-sensitive) activity, and 155% in RNA polymerase I- and III-mediated (alpha-amanitin-resistant) activity. To determine whether part of this early effect of TSH was due to increased activity of RNA polymerase, incubations were also carried out in the presence of actinomycin D, which blocks transcription of endogenous template but does not inhibit transcription of added synthetic template poly deoxyadenylic-deoxythymidylic acid (dA.dT). Under these conditions, about half of the TSH-induced increase in the transcription of endogenous template could still be detected. Thus part of the early effects of TSH on RNA synthesis appears to be mediated through increased polymerase activity as well as enhanced template activity.", "contents": "Early effects of thyrotropin on ribonucleic acid transcription in the thyroid. Previous studies on the effects of TSH on the incorporation of labeled precursors into RNA have demonstrated an increase in the percentage of label in the phosphorylated nucleotide precursors of RNA. To avoid this nonspecific effect of TSH, we chose to measure RNA transcription in a system which uses exogenous phosphorylated precursors. Isolated nuclei were prepared from the thyroids of dogs which had been injected 90 min earlier with TSH. TSH caused a mean increase of 168% above control in total transcriptional activity, 193% in polymerase II-mediated (alpha-amanitin-sensitive) activity, and 155% in RNA polymerase I- and III-mediated (alpha-amanitin-resistant) activity. To determine whether part of this early effect of TSH was due to increased activity of RNA polymerase, incubations were also carried out in the presence of actinomycin D, which blocks transcription of endogenous template but does not inhibit transcription of added synthetic template poly deoxyadenylic-deoxythymidylic acid (dA.dT). Under these conditions, about half of the TSH-induced increase in the transcription of endogenous template could still be detected. Thus part of the early effects of TSH on RNA synthesis appears to be mediated through increased polymerase activity as well as enhanced template activity.", "PMID": 436728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3254", "title": "Effect of human chorionic gonadotropin and prolactin on 20 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in granulosa cells of immature rat ovary.", "content": "The effects of FSH, hCG, and PRL on the activity of 20 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20 alpha-SDH) of separate ovarian components of hypophysectomized, diethylstilbestrol-treated rats were studied. Enzyme activity was found to reside mainly in granulosa cells. FSH induced an increase in enzyme activity. A preparation of FSH was purified by adsorbing its LH contamination on rat corpora lutea membranes and by further neutralizing LH traces with an antiserum to the beta-subunit of LH. This purified FSH retained the ability to induce a 6-fold increase in specific enzyme activity in granulosa cells of hypophysectomized, diethylstilbestrol-treated rats. Administration of hCG to rats treated with purified FSH, further enhanced 20 alpha-SDH activity in granulosa cells up to 11.5-fold above control. PRL, which is known to inhibit 20 alpha-SDH activity in regressing rat corpora lutea, suppressed the FSH-induced increase in enzyme activity in the granulosa cells.", "contents": "Effect of human chorionic gonadotropin and prolactin on 20 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in granulosa cells of immature rat ovary. The effects of FSH, hCG, and PRL on the activity of 20 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20 alpha-SDH) of separate ovarian components of hypophysectomized, diethylstilbestrol-treated rats were studied. Enzyme activity was found to reside mainly in granulosa cells. FSH induced an increase in enzyme activity. A preparation of FSH was purified by adsorbing its LH contamination on rat corpora lutea membranes and by further neutralizing LH traces with an antiserum to the beta-subunit of LH. This purified FSH retained the ability to induce a 6-fold increase in specific enzyme activity in granulosa cells of hypophysectomized, diethylstilbestrol-treated rats. Administration of hCG to rats treated with purified FSH, further enhanced 20 alpha-SDH activity in granulosa cells up to 11.5-fold above control. PRL, which is known to inhibit 20 alpha-SDH activity in regressing rat corpora lutea, suppressed the FSH-induced increase in enzyme activity in the granulosa cells.", "PMID": 436730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3255", "title": "Prolactin and zinc effects on rat vascular reactivity: possible relationship to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid and to prostaglandin synthesis.", "content": "Ovine PRL at low concentrations potentiated pressor responses to norepinephrine and angiotensin in an isolated perfused rat mesenteric vascular preparation. Higher concentrations inhibited these pressor responses. Pressor responses to potassium which depend on extracellular calcium entry into the muscle were unaffected by PRL at any concentration. Either cortisol or lithium could completely block the PRL effect. Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DHGL) and prostaglandin E1 had effects similar to those of PRL in that they potentiated norepinephrine responses at low concentrations, inhibited at high ones, and had no effect on potassium responses. Arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E2 potentiated both norepinephrine and potassium responses and had no inhibitory effects at high concentrations. Neither lithium nor cortisol blocked the effects of DHGL or arachidonic acid. Zinc had actions similar to those of PRL and DHGL, but which could be blocked only by lithium and not by cortisol. These results are consistent with the concept that PRL increases synthesis of the 1 series of prostaglandins by mobilizing DHGL. They provide further evidence that zinc may play a role in some actions of PRL.", "contents": "Prolactin and zinc effects on rat vascular reactivity: possible relationship to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid and to prostaglandin synthesis. Ovine PRL at low concentrations potentiated pressor responses to norepinephrine and angiotensin in an isolated perfused rat mesenteric vascular preparation. Higher concentrations inhibited these pressor responses. Pressor responses to potassium which depend on extracellular calcium entry into the muscle were unaffected by PRL at any concentration. Either cortisol or lithium could completely block the PRL effect. Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DHGL) and prostaglandin E1 had effects similar to those of PRL in that they potentiated norepinephrine responses at low concentrations, inhibited at high ones, and had no effect on potassium responses. Arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E2 potentiated both norepinephrine and potassium responses and had no inhibitory effects at high concentrations. Neither lithium nor cortisol blocked the effects of DHGL or arachidonic acid. Zinc had actions similar to those of PRL and DHGL, but which could be blocked only by lithium and not by cortisol. These results are consistent with the concept that PRL increases synthesis of the 1 series of prostaglandins by mobilizing DHGL. They provide further evidence that zinc may play a role in some actions of PRL.", "PMID": 436735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3256", "title": "Increases in mitochondrial steroidogenesis after short term incubation of porcine ovarian follicles with luteinizing hormone.", "content": "[4-14C]Cholesterol side chain cleavage, progesterone synthesis, and cytochrome oxidase activities were measured in mitochondria from unincubated and short term incubated large (8-10 mm) follicles isolated from porcine ovaries. Compared to the activity of mitochondria from unincubated follicles, specific [4-14C]cholesterol side chain cleavage activity in mitochondria from follicles incubated with LH (0.05 microgrogram/ml) did not change significantly after 12 h, but increased almost 2-fold after 18 h and 5-fold after 24 h. Also, specific mitochondrial progesterone synthesis activity increased dramatically after incubation of follicles for 24 h with LH. In comparison, mitochondria prepared from follicles incubated without LH showed no significant change in specific [4-14C]cholesterol side chain cleavage or progesterone synthesis activities after 18 h of incubation. While both of these activities increased after incubating follicles 24 h without LH, the values were significantly lower than those observed for preparations from follicles incubated with LH. In contrast to these changes in mitochondrial steroidogenesis, specific cytochrome oxidase activity in mitochondria did not change after incubation of follicles without or with LH. It is concluded that incubation of follicles with LH stimulates the development of mitochondrial steroidogenesis but initially does not affect some components of the respiratory chain.", "contents": "Increases in mitochondrial steroidogenesis after short term incubation of porcine ovarian follicles with luteinizing hormone. [4-14C]Cholesterol side chain cleavage, progesterone synthesis, and cytochrome oxidase activities were measured in mitochondria from unincubated and short term incubated large (8-10 mm) follicles isolated from porcine ovaries. Compared to the activity of mitochondria from unincubated follicles, specific [4-14C]cholesterol side chain cleavage activity in mitochondria from follicles incubated with LH (0.05 microgrogram/ml) did not change significantly after 12 h, but increased almost 2-fold after 18 h and 5-fold after 24 h. Also, specific mitochondrial progesterone synthesis activity increased dramatically after incubation of follicles for 24 h with LH. In comparison, mitochondria prepared from follicles incubated without LH showed no significant change in specific [4-14C]cholesterol side chain cleavage or progesterone synthesis activities after 18 h of incubation. While both of these activities increased after incubating follicles 24 h without LH, the values were significantly lower than those observed for preparations from follicles incubated with LH. In contrast to these changes in mitochondrial steroidogenesis, specific cytochrome oxidase activity in mitochondria did not change after incubation of follicles without or with LH. It is concluded that incubation of follicles with LH stimulates the development of mitochondrial steroidogenesis but initially does not affect some components of the respiratory chain.", "PMID": 436736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3257", "title": "Progesterone receptor in the hypothalamic cytosol of female rats.", "content": "A progesterone (P)-binding component with a sedimentation coefficient of 8S has been demonstrated in hypothalamic cytosol from ovariectomized, estrogen-primed rats using both [H]P-containing sucrose-glycerol gradient analysis and dextran-coated charcoal adsorption of the preisolated 8S component. The association rate constant (K+1) was determined to be 1.90 +/- 0.38 (SD) X 10(6) M-1 min-1 at 0-2 C. The dissociation rate constant (K-1) was 1.86 x 10(-2) min-1, as calculated from the half-dissociation time [37.0 +/- 7.3 (SD) min]. The apparent dissociation constant (Kd) at 0-2 C was determined to be 6-10 nM by Scatchard plot analysis of data obtained from either direct [3HA]P binding or competition of the [3H]P binding by nonradioactive P and by calculating from K-1/K+1. The 8S binding component was protein in nature, and the concentration of binding sites was 12 fmol/mg cytosol protein. On a per U cytosol protein basis, the relative capacities of the specific 8S binding components were: uterus greater than pituitary greater than hypothalamus greater than hippocampus/amygdala greater than cerebral cortex. Competition studies showed a high specificity for P and 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone. Corticosterone (C), although competing for the binding, had an affinity 8-fold less than P. Implantation of C in adrenalectomized, ovariectomized, estrogen-implanted rats suppressed the 8S binding of [3H]C without affecting the [3H]P binding. The binding of [3H]P to the cytoplasmic 8S component of hypothalamus was greater than that of combined hippocampus and amygdala, while the reverse was observed for the binding of [3H]dexamethasone. These results demonstrate in rat hypothalamic cytosol a tissue and hormone-specific, high affinity, 8S progesterone-binding protein which has many of the properties expected of a hormone receptor.", "contents": "Progesterone receptor in the hypothalamic cytosol of female rats. A progesterone (P)-binding component with a sedimentation coefficient of 8S has been demonstrated in hypothalamic cytosol from ovariectomized, estrogen-primed rats using both [H]P-containing sucrose-glycerol gradient analysis and dextran-coated charcoal adsorption of the preisolated 8S component. The association rate constant (K+1) was determined to be 1.90 +/- 0.38 (SD) X 10(6) M-1 min-1 at 0-2 C. The dissociation rate constant (K-1) was 1.86 x 10(-2) min-1, as calculated from the half-dissociation time [37.0 +/- 7.3 (SD) min]. The apparent dissociation constant (Kd) at 0-2 C was determined to be 6-10 nM by Scatchard plot analysis of data obtained from either direct [3HA]P binding or competition of the [3H]P binding by nonradioactive P and by calculating from K-1/K+1. The 8S binding component was protein in nature, and the concentration of binding sites was 12 fmol/mg cytosol protein. On a per U cytosol protein basis, the relative capacities of the specific 8S binding components were: uterus greater than pituitary greater than hypothalamus greater than hippocampus/amygdala greater than cerebral cortex. Competition studies showed a high specificity for P and 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone. Corticosterone (C), although competing for the binding, had an affinity 8-fold less than P. Implantation of C in adrenalectomized, ovariectomized, estrogen-implanted rats suppressed the 8S binding of [3H]C without affecting the [3H]P binding. The binding of [3H]P to the cytoplasmic 8S component of hypothalamus was greater than that of combined hippocampus and amygdala, while the reverse was observed for the binding of [3H]dexamethasone. These results demonstrate in rat hypothalamic cytosol a tissue and hormone-specific, high affinity, 8S progesterone-binding protein which has many of the properties expected of a hormone receptor.", "PMID": 436737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3258", "title": "The testicular estrogen receptor system in two strains of mice differing in susceptibility to estrogen-induced Leydig cell tumors.", "content": "Cytosol obtained from cryptorchid testes of tumor-susceptible BALB/c and resistant C3HBi (Z) mice both bound 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and diethylstilbestrol (DES) specifically. The dissociation constant (Kd) of this binding component (RE) for E2 was determined to approximate 5 x 10(-9) M. Gel filtration of cytosols resulted in a significant increase in the binding constant (Kd approximately 3 x 10(-10) M) with the majority of the complex migrating in the 7-8S area after sucrose gradient centrifugation. Incubation of either untreated or gel-filtered cytosol with [3H]DES resulted in considerable nonspecific binding appearing in the 4S region in a low salt sucrose gradient. This 4S binding of [3H]DES was not inhibited by the addition to the incubation mixtures of a 100-fold excess of either E2 or DES, while the lesser peak at 7-8S as well as the major 7-8S peak formed with E2 were inhibited by both. In vitro translocation of the cytosol RE to the nucleus was demonstrated in both mouse strains using either estrogen. Quantitation of the in vivo translocation, employing the exchange method after a single injection of 2.5 micrograms E2/mouse, revealed a rapid increase in cytoplasmic receptor content accompanied by a concomitant increase in nuclear receptor content. Greater nuclear receptor content was identified in nuclei from BALB/c mice than in those from Z animals 45 min after injection of E2. The binding behavior of E2-RE complexes to nuclei was studied by the KCl extraction method. The percent extracted from the nuclei in the Z strain was significantly greater than that in the BALB/c at all concentrations of KCl tested. Essentially 100% of the RE was extracted from nuclei of Z animals at 0.4 M KCl, while nuclei of BALB/c mice retained 35-40% even in 2 M KCl. Cross-over experiments in a cell-free system suggested that the difference in binding was due to differences in chromatins rather than in nuclear estrogen-receptor complexes. The greater nuclear receptor content and stronger binding of nuclear receptor to chromatin might explain why estrogen-induced phenomena, including neoplastic transformation occur to a much greater degree in the BALB/c strain than in the Z strain of the mouse.", "contents": "The testicular estrogen receptor system in two strains of mice differing in susceptibility to estrogen-induced Leydig cell tumors. Cytosol obtained from cryptorchid testes of tumor-susceptible BALB/c and resistant C3HBi (Z) mice both bound 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and diethylstilbestrol (DES) specifically. The dissociation constant (Kd) of this binding component (RE) for E2 was determined to approximate 5 x 10(-9) M. Gel filtration of cytosols resulted in a significant increase in the binding constant (Kd approximately 3 x 10(-10) M) with the majority of the complex migrating in the 7-8S area after sucrose gradient centrifugation. Incubation of either untreated or gel-filtered cytosol with [3H]DES resulted in considerable nonspecific binding appearing in the 4S region in a low salt sucrose gradient. This 4S binding of [3H]DES was not inhibited by the addition to the incubation mixtures of a 100-fold excess of either E2 or DES, while the lesser peak at 7-8S as well as the major 7-8S peak formed with E2 were inhibited by both. In vitro translocation of the cytosol RE to the nucleus was demonstrated in both mouse strains using either estrogen. Quantitation of the in vivo translocation, employing the exchange method after a single injection of 2.5 micrograms E2/mouse, revealed a rapid increase in cytoplasmic receptor content accompanied by a concomitant increase in nuclear receptor content. Greater nuclear receptor content was identified in nuclei from BALB/c mice than in those from Z animals 45 min after injection of E2. The binding behavior of E2-RE complexes to nuclei was studied by the KCl extraction method. The percent extracted from the nuclei in the Z strain was significantly greater than that in the BALB/c at all concentrations of KCl tested. Essentially 100% of the RE was extracted from nuclei of Z animals at 0.4 M KCl, while nuclei of BALB/c mice retained 35-40% even in 2 M KCl. Cross-over experiments in a cell-free system suggested that the difference in binding was due to differences in chromatins rather than in nuclear estrogen-receptor complexes. The greater nuclear receptor content and stronger binding of nuclear receptor to chromatin might explain why estrogen-induced phenomena, including neoplastic transformation occur to a much greater degree in the BALB/c strain than in the Z strain of the mouse.", "PMID": 436739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3259", "title": "The availability of cortisol in amniotic fluid to the fetus and chorionic and amniotic membranes.", "content": "This study examined whether cortisol, present in amniotic fluid (AF), could reach the fetal blood, and might be available to various fetal organs and to the fetal membranes and placenta. [3H]Cortisol ([3H]F) was injected into the AF of five sheep at 130--143 days gestation. Samples of AF and fetal blood were collected for 120 min, at which time the fetuses were delivered and fetal organs and fluid were collected for measurement of the [3H]F content. [3H]F disappeared from AF with an initial half-life of about 40 min and was detected in fetal blood by 30 min after intraamniotic injection. At 120 min after injection, [3H]F was widely distributed within the pregnant uterus, and the highest concentrations of radioactivity were found in allantoic fluid, fetal membranes, and placental tissue. The concentration of [3H]F in the umbilical vein was higher than in umbilical arterial blood in four of five sheep. [3H]F and [3H]cortisone were found in several fetal tissues, including adrenal, kidney, pancreas, lung, and liver. [3H]F in tracheal and stomach fluid was generally less than in fetal blood. We conclude that 1) cortisol can reach the fetus from AF, 2) a major route of entry may be via the vasculature of the fetal membranes, 3) a considerable proportion of [3H]F is retained by the fetal membranes, and 4) interconversion of [3H]F and [3H]cortisone may occur in some fetal tissues.", "contents": "The availability of cortisol in amniotic fluid to the fetus and chorionic and amniotic membranes. This study examined whether cortisol, present in amniotic fluid (AF), could reach the fetal blood, and might be available to various fetal organs and to the fetal membranes and placenta. [3H]Cortisol ([3H]F) was injected into the AF of five sheep at 130--143 days gestation. Samples of AF and fetal blood were collected for 120 min, at which time the fetuses were delivered and fetal organs and fluid were collected for measurement of the [3H]F content. [3H]F disappeared from AF with an initial half-life of about 40 min and was detected in fetal blood by 30 min after intraamniotic injection. At 120 min after injection, [3H]F was widely distributed within the pregnant uterus, and the highest concentrations of radioactivity were found in allantoic fluid, fetal membranes, and placental tissue. The concentration of [3H]F in the umbilical vein was higher than in umbilical arterial blood in four of five sheep. [3H]F and [3H]cortisone were found in several fetal tissues, including adrenal, kidney, pancreas, lung, and liver. [3H]F in tracheal and stomach fluid was generally less than in fetal blood. We conclude that 1) cortisol can reach the fetus from AF, 2) a major route of entry may be via the vasculature of the fetal membranes, 3) a considerable proportion of [3H]F is retained by the fetal membranes, and 4) interconversion of [3H]F and [3H]cortisone may occur in some fetal tissues.", "PMID": 436746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3260", "title": "Relationship of insulin binding to amino acid transport by cultured 14-day embryonic chick heart cells.", "content": "The characteristics of insulin receptors were studied in cultured embryonic chick heart cells which demonstrated insulin-responsive amino acid transport. Binding of [125I]iodoinsulin was time dependent, reversible, saturable, species specific, and proportional to cell number. Optimum binding occurred at pH 7.8 in the presence of 0.1% bovine serum albumin. Curvilinear Scatchard plots were found for chicken and bovine insulin binding at 15 and 30 C. Equilibrium association constants (Kas) and maximum capacities were calculated based on a two-receptor model. When studied at 15 C, chicken insulin was bound with Kas of 5.0 and 0.026 nM-1 for the high and low affinity receptors, respectively. Bovine insulin bound with Kas of 2.1 and 0.03 nM-1. The binding capacities of 600 and 9000 molecules/cell for the high and low affinity receptors, respectively, were the same for both species of ligand. At 30 C, the Ka of the high affinity chicken insulin receptor interaction decreased to 1.6 nM-1, whereas the low affinity Ka was not changed. In competitive binding assays, chicken insulin was 4 and 250 times more potent than bovine and guinea pig insulin, respectively. Human GH and mouse epidermal growth factor did not compete with chicken insulin. Although mouse epidermal growth factor did not compete with insulin, it did stimulate 2-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation. The maximal stimulation by this hormone was less than and additive to that produced by the maximal stimulation of insulin. These data indicate that insulin and epidermal growth factor acted through different receptors to stimulate amino acid transport. When insulin-stimulated functional response was compared to calculated receptor occupancy in this two-receptor model, stimulation of amino acid transport paralleled occupancy of the low affinity receptor such that at half-maximal transport stimulation, approximately 50% of these receptors were occupied. Half-maximal stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport occurred at 18- and 20-nM concentrations of bovine and chicken insulins, respectively. Guinea pig insulin failed to stimulate 2-aminoisobutyric acid uptake even at 350 nM. Both the affinity of binding in the low affinity class and the insulin concentration for half-maximal stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport were independent of temperature in the temperature ranges studied. We conclude that 14-day embryonic chick heart cells possess at least two classes of receptors which bind insulin. Occupancy of the lower affinity class of insulin receptors correlates quantitatively with insulin stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport.", "contents": "Relationship of insulin binding to amino acid transport by cultured 14-day embryonic chick heart cells. The characteristics of insulin receptors were studied in cultured embryonic chick heart cells which demonstrated insulin-responsive amino acid transport. Binding of [125I]iodoinsulin was time dependent, reversible, saturable, species specific, and proportional to cell number. Optimum binding occurred at pH 7.8 in the presence of 0.1% bovine serum albumin. Curvilinear Scatchard plots were found for chicken and bovine insulin binding at 15 and 30 C. Equilibrium association constants (Kas) and maximum capacities were calculated based on a two-receptor model. When studied at 15 C, chicken insulin was bound with Kas of 5.0 and 0.026 nM-1 for the high and low affinity receptors, respectively. Bovine insulin bound with Kas of 2.1 and 0.03 nM-1. The binding capacities of 600 and 9000 molecules/cell for the high and low affinity receptors, respectively, were the same for both species of ligand. At 30 C, the Ka of the high affinity chicken insulin receptor interaction decreased to 1.6 nM-1, whereas the low affinity Ka was not changed. In competitive binding assays, chicken insulin was 4 and 250 times more potent than bovine and guinea pig insulin, respectively. Human GH and mouse epidermal growth factor did not compete with chicken insulin. Although mouse epidermal growth factor did not compete with insulin, it did stimulate 2-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation. The maximal stimulation by this hormone was less than and additive to that produced by the maximal stimulation of insulin. These data indicate that insulin and epidermal growth factor acted through different receptors to stimulate amino acid transport. When insulin-stimulated functional response was compared to calculated receptor occupancy in this two-receptor model, stimulation of amino acid transport paralleled occupancy of the low affinity receptor such that at half-maximal transport stimulation, approximately 50% of these receptors were occupied. Half-maximal stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport occurred at 18- and 20-nM concentrations of bovine and chicken insulins, respectively. Guinea pig insulin failed to stimulate 2-aminoisobutyric acid uptake even at 350 nM. Both the affinity of binding in the low affinity class and the insulin concentration for half-maximal stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport were independent of temperature in the temperature ranges studied. We conclude that 14-day embryonic chick heart cells possess at least two classes of receptors which bind insulin. Occupancy of the lower affinity class of insulin receptors correlates quantitatively with insulin stimulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport.", "PMID": 436747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3261", "title": "Development of glycoprotein hormones and their alpha- and beta-subunits in bovine fetal pituitary glands. I. Quantitation of thyrotropin, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone by radioligand receptor assays.", "content": "The development of TSH, FSH, and LH in bovine fetal pituitary glands was studied by the respective radioligand receptor assays. The content of pituitary TSH increased gradually in fetuses of both sexes throughout gestation, and no significant difference was observed for the pituitary concentration of TSH between male and female fetuses at different stages of gestation. The pituitary content of FSH increased gradually in male fetuses, but increased dramatically in female fetuses after midgestation. Similarly, the concentration of pituitary FSH was 2- to 3-fold higher in female than male fetuses after midgestation. The pituitary content of LH increased gradually and proportionally with the age of the fetus, and no significant difference was observed between sexes. However, the concentration of pituitary LH remained relatively constant for both sexes throughout gestation.", "contents": "Development of glycoprotein hormones and their alpha- and beta-subunits in bovine fetal pituitary glands. I. Quantitation of thyrotropin, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone by radioligand receptor assays. The development of TSH, FSH, and LH in bovine fetal pituitary glands was studied by the respective radioligand receptor assays. The content of pituitary TSH increased gradually in fetuses of both sexes throughout gestation, and no significant difference was observed for the pituitary concentration of TSH between male and female fetuses at different stages of gestation. The pituitary content of FSH increased gradually in male fetuses, but increased dramatically in female fetuses after midgestation. Similarly, the concentration of pituitary FSH was 2- to 3-fold higher in female than male fetuses after midgestation. The pituitary content of LH increased gradually and proportionally with the age of the fetus, and no significant difference was observed between sexes. However, the concentration of pituitary LH remained relatively constant for both sexes throughout gestation.", "PMID": 436748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3262", "title": "Plasma vasopressin in conscious goats after cerebroventricular infusions of angiotensins, sodium chloride, and fructose.", "content": "Using a sensitive RIA, the levels of plasma arginine vasopressin (pAVP) were determined from jugular venous blood of conscious goats given cerebroventricular (c.v.) infusions of angiotensins, saralasin, NaCl, and fructose. In hydrated goats, c.v. angiotensin II (0.1--1.0 microgram) caused a dose-dependent rise of pAVP, drinking, and antidiuresis. The same responses were obtained after angiotensin III (1.8 microgram) and hypertonic NaCl (0.5 M), but the effect on water intake was less striking. [des1,2]Angiotensin II hexapeptide and isotonic NaCl (0.15 M) failed to affect these variables. In nonhydrated goats, there were no changes in drinking, diuresis, or pAVP after c.v. infusions of saralasin (5.0 microgram) and isotonic NaCl (0.15 M). Fructose (0.3 M) infusions lowered the pAVP, apparently by reducing the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Na+ concentration, while the renal free water clearance turned positive. Angiotensin III thus carries the minimal structural requirements for pAVP release via central nervous receptors in the goat. Lack of a saralasin effect suggests that, in the nonhydrated goat, angiotensin II may not regulate pAVP via receptors accessible to the CSF. Sodium-sensitive cells monitoring the Na+ concentration of the CSF seem to control the pAVP.", "contents": "Plasma vasopressin in conscious goats after cerebroventricular infusions of angiotensins, sodium chloride, and fructose. Using a sensitive RIA, the levels of plasma arginine vasopressin (pAVP) were determined from jugular venous blood of conscious goats given cerebroventricular (c.v.) infusions of angiotensins, saralasin, NaCl, and fructose. In hydrated goats, c.v. angiotensin II (0.1--1.0 microgram) caused a dose-dependent rise of pAVP, drinking, and antidiuresis. The same responses were obtained after angiotensin III (1.8 microgram) and hypertonic NaCl (0.5 M), but the effect on water intake was less striking. [des1,2]Angiotensin II hexapeptide and isotonic NaCl (0.15 M) failed to affect these variables. In nonhydrated goats, there were no changes in drinking, diuresis, or pAVP after c.v. infusions of saralasin (5.0 microgram) and isotonic NaCl (0.15 M). Fructose (0.3 M) infusions lowered the pAVP, apparently by reducing the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Na+ concentration, while the renal free water clearance turned positive. Angiotensin III thus carries the minimal structural requirements for pAVP release via central nervous receptors in the goat. Lack of a saralasin effect suggests that, in the nonhydrated goat, angiotensin II may not regulate pAVP via receptors accessible to the CSF. Sodium-sensitive cells monitoring the Na+ concentration of the CSF seem to control the pAVP.", "PMID": 436751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3263", "title": "The effect of hypothyroidism on growth, serum growth hormone, the growth hormone-dependent somatomedin, insulin-like growth factor, and its carrier protein in rats.", "content": "To study the possible mechanisms involved in growth retardation associated with hypothyroidism, serum T4, GH, the GH-dependent somatomedin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and its carrier protein (CP) were measured in hypothyroid rats and their age-matched controls. Three groups of rats were studied: infant, immature, and adult. Marked hypothyroidism (serum T4, less than 1 microgram/dl) was produced in experimental animals by providing them with drinking water containing 0.05% propylthiouracil. Infant and immature hypothyroid rats weighed markedly less than normal controls and had significantly reduced serum levels of GH, IGF, and CP. Normal adult rats, treated with propylthiouracil for 60 days, also weighed considerably less than control animals and exhibited a significant drop in serum GH, IGF, and CP during this period. The administration of bovine GH to hypothyroid adult rats for 7 days did not restore either IGF or CP levels to normal, indicating that their decrease in serum was, in part, a direct result of hypothyroidism per se. These results indicate that serum levels of GH, IGF, and CP are at least partly under thyroid hormone control. Furthermore, these studies suggest that the growth retardation associated with hypothyroidism may be mediated through somatomedin activity.", "contents": "The effect of hypothyroidism on growth, serum growth hormone, the growth hormone-dependent somatomedin, insulin-like growth factor, and its carrier protein in rats. To study the possible mechanisms involved in growth retardation associated with hypothyroidism, serum T4, GH, the GH-dependent somatomedin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and its carrier protein (CP) were measured in hypothyroid rats and their age-matched controls. Three groups of rats were studied: infant, immature, and adult. Marked hypothyroidism (serum T4, less than 1 microgram/dl) was produced in experimental animals by providing them with drinking water containing 0.05% propylthiouracil. Infant and immature hypothyroid rats weighed markedly less than normal controls and had significantly reduced serum levels of GH, IGF, and CP. Normal adult rats, treated with propylthiouracil for 60 days, also weighed considerably less than control animals and exhibited a significant drop in serum GH, IGF, and CP during this period. The administration of bovine GH to hypothyroid adult rats for 7 days did not restore either IGF or CP levels to normal, indicating that their decrease in serum was, in part, a direct result of hypothyroidism per se. These results indicate that serum levels of GH, IGF, and CP are at least partly under thyroid hormone control. Furthermore, these studies suggest that the growth retardation associated with hypothyroidism may be mediated through somatomedin activity.", "PMID": 436752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3264", "title": "Glucocorticoid receptors in thymocytes of fetus, newborn, and adult CBA mice.", "content": "[3H]Dexamethasone binding was studied in vitro in cell suspensions of thymus from fetal and newborn mice. The number of glucocorticoid receptors appeared to be identical in fetal, newborn, and adult CBA mice. The affinities of these receptors, calculated by Scatchard analysis, were similar in the three groups of animals. The extent of in vitro steroid-induced inhibition of [3H]uridine incorporation by fetal and adult thymocyte suspensions was very similar. These results suggest that no significant variations in glucocorticoid receptors occur in thymic tissue during the neonatal period.", "contents": "Glucocorticoid receptors in thymocytes of fetus, newborn, and adult CBA mice. [3H]Dexamethasone binding was studied in vitro in cell suspensions of thymus from fetal and newborn mice. The number of glucocorticoid receptors appeared to be identical in fetal, newborn, and adult CBA mice. The affinities of these receptors, calculated by Scatchard analysis, were similar in the three groups of animals. The extent of in vitro steroid-induced inhibition of [3H]uridine incorporation by fetal and adult thymocyte suspensions was very similar. These results suggest that no significant variations in glucocorticoid receptors occur in thymic tissue during the neonatal period.", "PMID": 436754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3265", "title": "Delineation of the glucocorticoid-sensitive period of intestinal development in the rat.", "content": "Jejunal sucrase has been used as a marker for intestinal development. The effects of sequential adrenalectomy and sequential administration of hydrocortisone have led to the conclusion that the glucocorticoid sensitivity of the jejunum ceases abruptly at a postnatal age of 17--18 days. Adrenalectomy on day 17 or earlier resulted in significant depression of the usual developmental rise of sucrase activity, whereas adrenalectomy on days 18, 21, or 28 or in adults had no effect on sucrase activity. In contrast, the effect of adrenalectomy on body weight was similar to all ages studied. When hydrocortisone (50 microgram/g BW) was administered to intact animals on day 15 or 16, it caused significant elevation of sucrase activity but, when administered on day 17, 18, or 28, there was no difference between control and treated animals. Since adrenalectomy on day 15 delayed weaning, it was possible that the glucocorticoid dependence of the younger animals was mediated by effects on feeding behavior. However, a further study showed that complete prevention of weaning did not depress sucrase activity between days 15--21. Thus, at early ages, when the tissue was sensitive to glucocorticoid, it was independent of dietary regulation. In contrast, at later ages (days 25 and 27), prevention of weaning caused significant depression of jejunal sucrase activity.", "contents": "Delineation of the glucocorticoid-sensitive period of intestinal development in the rat. Jejunal sucrase has been used as a marker for intestinal development. The effects of sequential adrenalectomy and sequential administration of hydrocortisone have led to the conclusion that the glucocorticoid sensitivity of the jejunum ceases abruptly at a postnatal age of 17--18 days. Adrenalectomy on day 17 or earlier resulted in significant depression of the usual developmental rise of sucrase activity, whereas adrenalectomy on days 18, 21, or 28 or in adults had no effect on sucrase activity. In contrast, the effect of adrenalectomy on body weight was similar to all ages studied. When hydrocortisone (50 microgram/g BW) was administered to intact animals on day 15 or 16, it caused significant elevation of sucrase activity but, when administered on day 17, 18, or 28, there was no difference between control and treated animals. Since adrenalectomy on day 15 delayed weaning, it was possible that the glucocorticoid dependence of the younger animals was mediated by effects on feeding behavior. However, a further study showed that complete prevention of weaning did not depress sucrase activity between days 15--21. Thus, at early ages, when the tissue was sensitive to glucocorticoid, it was independent of dietary regulation. In contrast, at later ages (days 25 and 27), prevention of weaning caused significant depression of jejunal sucrase activity.", "PMID": 436755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3266", "title": "Mechanism of action of a new antialdosterone compound, prorenone.", "content": "Two new aldosterone antagonists, K-prorenoate [potassium 3(17 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 7 beta-methylen-3-oxo-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl)propionate] and prorenone [3(17 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 7 beta-methylen-3-oxo-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl) propionic acid gamma-lactone], its lactonic form, were studied in rat kidney using in vitro systems. Study of [3H]prorenone binding by a recently developed computer method indicated a high affinity, low capacity class of sites which are, seemingly, mineralocorticoid receptors. In competition experiments performed on [3H]aldosterone- and [3H]dexamethasone-binding sites, prorenone appeared to be a good competitor for mineralocorticoid-binding sites and a poor competitor for glucocorticoid-binding sites. The specificity of this molecule was further confirmed by its poor ability to displace [3H]dihydrotestosterone from rat prostate androgenic receptors compared to spironolactone [3-(3-oxo-7 alpha-acetylthio-17 beta-hydroxy-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl) propionic acid gamma-lactone]. In the same experiments, K-prorenoate demonstrated a very low affinity for the two types of receptors. The behavior of [3H]prorenone cytosolic complex was also studied in kidney mince experiments, which showed that the [3H]prorenone complex was not able to translocate into the nucleus. Prorenone inhibited the binding of [3H]aldosterone to the receptor and, consequently, the nuclear binding of aldosterone was not observed.", "contents": "Mechanism of action of a new antialdosterone compound, prorenone. Two new aldosterone antagonists, K-prorenoate [potassium 3(17 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 7 beta-methylen-3-oxo-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl)propionate] and prorenone [3(17 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 7 beta-methylen-3-oxo-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl) propionic acid gamma-lactone], its lactonic form, were studied in rat kidney using in vitro systems. Study of [3H]prorenone binding by a recently developed computer method indicated a high affinity, low capacity class of sites which are, seemingly, mineralocorticoid receptors. In competition experiments performed on [3H]aldosterone- and [3H]dexamethasone-binding sites, prorenone appeared to be a good competitor for mineralocorticoid-binding sites and a poor competitor for glucocorticoid-binding sites. The specificity of this molecule was further confirmed by its poor ability to displace [3H]dihydrotestosterone from rat prostate androgenic receptors compared to spironolactone [3-(3-oxo-7 alpha-acetylthio-17 beta-hydroxy-4-androsten-17 alpha-yl) propionic acid gamma-lactone]. In the same experiments, K-prorenoate demonstrated a very low affinity for the two types of receptors. The behavior of [3H]prorenone cytosolic complex was also studied in kidney mince experiments, which showed that the [3H]prorenone complex was not able to translocate into the nucleus. Prorenone inhibited the binding of [3H]aldosterone to the receptor and, consequently, the nuclear binding of aldosterone was not observed.", "PMID": 436757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3267", "title": "Circannual variation and genetic regulation of hepatic testosterone hydroxylase activities in inbred strains of mice.", "content": "Hydroxylation of testosterone by hepatic microsomes at positions 6 alpha, 6 beta, 7 alpha, 15 alpha, and 16 alpha has been studied in C57BL/6J, 129/J, and A/J mice. Differences in hydroxylase activities between the C57BL/6J and A/J strains and between the C57BL/6J and 129/J strains were investigated using standard genetic breeding protocols. In the C57BL/6J X A/J line, 6 alpha- and 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity appeared to be under polygenic control in both sexes, as did 15 alpha-hydroxylase activity in females. The lack of 16 alpha-hydroxylase activity observed in 129/J females behaved as a recessive, autosomal, single locus, sex-limited trait. In several instances, the level of hydroxylase activity at one position appeared to be affected by the level of hydroxylase activity at a second position; however, no clear-cut pattern was discerned. Over a period of a year, a remarkable cycle in total hydroxylase activity for all mice was observed; the average activity was greatest in December and least in April.", "contents": "Circannual variation and genetic regulation of hepatic testosterone hydroxylase activities in inbred strains of mice. Hydroxylation of testosterone by hepatic microsomes at positions 6 alpha, 6 beta, 7 alpha, 15 alpha, and 16 alpha has been studied in C57BL/6J, 129/J, and A/J mice. Differences in hydroxylase activities between the C57BL/6J and A/J strains and between the C57BL/6J and 129/J strains were investigated using standard genetic breeding protocols. In the C57BL/6J X A/J line, 6 alpha- and 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity appeared to be under polygenic control in both sexes, as did 15 alpha-hydroxylase activity in females. The lack of 16 alpha-hydroxylase activity observed in 129/J females behaved as a recessive, autosomal, single locus, sex-limited trait. In several instances, the level of hydroxylase activity at one position appeared to be affected by the level of hydroxylase activity at a second position; however, no clear-cut pattern was discerned. Over a period of a year, a remarkable cycle in total hydroxylase activity for all mice was observed; the average activity was greatest in December and least in April.", "PMID": 436758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3268", "title": "Antipsychotic drugs inhibit prolactin release from rat anterior pituitary cells in culture by a mechanism not involving the dopamine receptor.", "content": "Bromocriptine, a dopamine agonist, inhibited secretion of PRL and did not affect GH release from rat anterior pituitary cells in culture. The reversal of this inhibition of PRL release by butaclamol, a dopamine antagonist, was stereospecific; 10 nM d-butaclamol completely reversed the inhibition caused by 10 nM bromocriptine, while l-butaclamol had no effect at concentrations up to 10 microM. However, both enantiomers at 10 microM inhibited PRL release to 30% and GH release to 91% of control values. Two other dopamine antagonists also inhibited hormone release. Haloperidol (10 microM) inhibited PRL release to 23% of control values and did not affect GH release; 3.3 microM pimozide inhibited PRL and GH release to 18% and 38% of control values, respectively. These data indicate that, the inhibition of PRL by antipsychotic drugs is not mediated through the dopamine receptor.", "contents": "Antipsychotic drugs inhibit prolactin release from rat anterior pituitary cells in culture by a mechanism not involving the dopamine receptor. Bromocriptine, a dopamine agonist, inhibited secretion of PRL and did not affect GH release from rat anterior pituitary cells in culture. The reversal of this inhibition of PRL release by butaclamol, a dopamine antagonist, was stereospecific; 10 nM d-butaclamol completely reversed the inhibition caused by 10 nM bromocriptine, while l-butaclamol had no effect at concentrations up to 10 microM. However, both enantiomers at 10 microM inhibited PRL release to 30% and GH release to 91% of control values. Two other dopamine antagonists also inhibited hormone release. Haloperidol (10 microM) inhibited PRL release to 23% of control values and did not affect GH release; 3.3 microM pimozide inhibited PRL and GH release to 18% and 38% of control values, respectively. These data indicate that, the inhibition of PRL by antipsychotic drugs is not mediated through the dopamine receptor.", "PMID": 436760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3269", "title": "Purification and characterization of rat relaxin.", "content": "Two highly purified forms of relaxin, designated CM1 and CM2, were obtained from rat ovaries collected on day 20 of gestation. The isolation procedure consisted of aqueous extraction, followed by fractionation with Sephadex G-50 and ion exchange chromatography. The yields of CM1 and CM2 were approximately 140 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue. No difference in biological potency between CM1 and CM2 was found when they were bioassayed with mouse pubic symphysis bioassays. Physicochemical analyses indicated that CM1 and CM2 were similar but not identical. The molecular weights of CM1 and CM2 were approximately 6000, as determined by ultracentrifugation. Analytical acrylamide disc gel electrophoresis at pH 4.3 demonstrated that CM1 and CM2 had different electrophoretic mobilities. Electrofocusing indicated the isoelectric points of CM1 and CM2 were pH 7.6 and pH 9.4, respectively. The amino acid compositions of CM1 and CM2 were similar but not identical. Slab gel electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel with sodium dodecyl sulfate showed that both reduced rat relaxin and reduced porcine relaxin migrated farther than their unreduced forms. This observation supports the view that rat relaxin, like porcine relaxin, consists of two chains linked by disulfide bonds.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of rat relaxin. Two highly purified forms of relaxin, designated CM1 and CM2, were obtained from rat ovaries collected on day 20 of gestation. The isolation procedure consisted of aqueous extraction, followed by fractionation with Sephadex G-50 and ion exchange chromatography. The yields of CM1 and CM2 were approximately 140 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue. No difference in biological potency between CM1 and CM2 was found when they were bioassayed with mouse pubic symphysis bioassays. Physicochemical analyses indicated that CM1 and CM2 were similar but not identical. The molecular weights of CM1 and CM2 were approximately 6000, as determined by ultracentrifugation. Analytical acrylamide disc gel electrophoresis at pH 4.3 demonstrated that CM1 and CM2 had different electrophoretic mobilities. Electrofocusing indicated the isoelectric points of CM1 and CM2 were pH 7.6 and pH 9.4, respectively. The amino acid compositions of CM1 and CM2 were similar but not identical. Slab gel electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel with sodium dodecyl sulfate showed that both reduced rat relaxin and reduced porcine relaxin migrated farther than their unreduced forms. This observation supports the view that rat relaxin, like porcine relaxin, consists of two chains linked by disulfide bonds.", "PMID": 436762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3270", "title": "Development of a homologous radioimmunoassay for rat relaxin.", "content": "Highly purified rat relaxin has been radioiodinated to specific activities of approximately 100 micro Ci/microgram with the Bolton and Hunter reagent [N-succinimidyl 3-(4-hydroxy-5-[125I]iodophenyl) propionate]. A rabbit antirat relaxin serum, applicable in a final dilution of 1:100,000, was developed in a rabbit using unconjugated highly purified rat relaxin. A specific and precise double antibody RIA for rat relaxin sufficiently sensitive to routinely measure from 32--2000 pg rat relaxin was developed. Using this RIA, relaxin immunoactivity levels in extracts of pregnant rat ovaries were found to rise from 0.8 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 8 of pregnancy to 723 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 20 of pregnancy and then to drop precipitously to 6 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 1 of lactation. Consistent with the occurrence and relative levels of relaxin in the ovarian extracts, levels of relaxin in pregnant rat serum were less than 2 ng/ml on day 10 of pregnancy, approximately 150 ng/ml on days 20 and 22 of pregnancy, and 12 ng/ml on day 2 of lactation.", "contents": "Development of a homologous radioimmunoassay for rat relaxin. Highly purified rat relaxin has been radioiodinated to specific activities of approximately 100 micro Ci/microgram with the Bolton and Hunter reagent [N-succinimidyl 3-(4-hydroxy-5-[125I]iodophenyl) propionate]. A rabbit antirat relaxin serum, applicable in a final dilution of 1:100,000, was developed in a rabbit using unconjugated highly purified rat relaxin. A specific and precise double antibody RIA for rat relaxin sufficiently sensitive to routinely measure from 32--2000 pg rat relaxin was developed. Using this RIA, relaxin immunoactivity levels in extracts of pregnant rat ovaries were found to rise from 0.8 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 8 of pregnancy to 723 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 20 of pregnancy and then to drop precipitously to 6 microgram/geq ovarian fresh tissue on day 1 of lactation. Consistent with the occurrence and relative levels of relaxin in the ovarian extracts, levels of relaxin in pregnant rat serum were less than 2 ng/ml on day 10 of pregnancy, approximately 150 ng/ml on days 20 and 22 of pregnancy, and 12 ng/ml on day 2 of lactation.", "PMID": 436763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3271", "title": "Effect of lithium on bone metabolism in organ culture.", "content": "The effects of lithium on bone metabolism were determined using different organ culture models for the study of resorption and collagen synthesis. At concentrations of 3 X 10(-3)--10(-2) M, lithium blocked the stimulation of 45Ca and lysosomal enzyme release by parathyroid hormone (PTH) but did not affect bone resorption in control cultures in the absence of PTH. Lithium inhibition was observed in continuous culture with PTH or when bones were exposed to both agents for only 8 h. Lithium was less effective in inhibiting resorption of bones pretreated with PTH, and pretreatment with lithium did not prevent subsequent stimulation of bone resorption by PTH. Lithium did not inhibit the incorporation of labeled proline in collagen and noncollagen protein or of labelled thymidine into DNA.", "contents": "Effect of lithium on bone metabolism in organ culture. The effects of lithium on bone metabolism were determined using different organ culture models for the study of resorption and collagen synthesis. At concentrations of 3 X 10(-3)--10(-2) M, lithium blocked the stimulation of 45Ca and lysosomal enzyme release by parathyroid hormone (PTH) but did not affect bone resorption in control cultures in the absence of PTH. Lithium inhibition was observed in continuous culture with PTH or when bones were exposed to both agents for only 8 h. Lithium was less effective in inhibiting resorption of bones pretreated with PTH, and pretreatment with lithium did not prevent subsequent stimulation of bone resorption by PTH. Lithium did not inhibit the incorporation of labeled proline in collagen and noncollagen protein or of labelled thymidine into DNA.", "PMID": 436765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3272", "title": "Thiourea and cyanamide as inhibitors of thyroid peroxidase: the role of iodide.", "content": "Thiourea, methylmercaptoimidazole, propylthiouracil, and thiouracil are all potent inhibitors of thyroid peroxidase (TPO)-catalyzed iodination. Unlike the cyclic thioureylenes, thiourea at 5 mM has no effect on guaiacol oxidation. If iodide is added to guaiacol assays containing thiourea, enzyme activity is lost. The latter observation may be explained as follows. In the presence of iodide, the iodinating species [TPO.Ioxid], oxidizes thiourea to formamidine disulfide. This product decomposes to cyanamide at neutral pH. We have shown cyanamide to be an inhibitor of the peroxidative and iodinating functions of TPO. Studies in rats demonstrate that doses of thiourea which completely inhibit in vivo protein-bound iodine formation have no irreversible effect on TPO, as measured by guaiacol peroxidation after removal of the thyroids. The major in vivo action of cyanamide is similar to that of thiourea. The data suggest that the primary in vivo and in vitro mode of action of thiourea is the reversible Ioxid-trapping mechanism. The anomalous inhibition of guaiacol peroxidation seen in the presence of thiourea plus iodide derives from the formation of formamide disulfide, followed by its nonenzymic decomposition to cyanamide.", "contents": "Thiourea and cyanamide as inhibitors of thyroid peroxidase: the role of iodide. Thiourea, methylmercaptoimidazole, propylthiouracil, and thiouracil are all potent inhibitors of thyroid peroxidase (TPO)-catalyzed iodination. Unlike the cyclic thioureylenes, thiourea at 5 mM has no effect on guaiacol oxidation. If iodide is added to guaiacol assays containing thiourea, enzyme activity is lost. The latter observation may be explained as follows. In the presence of iodide, the iodinating species [TPO.Ioxid], oxidizes thiourea to formamidine disulfide. This product decomposes to cyanamide at neutral pH. We have shown cyanamide to be an inhibitor of the peroxidative and iodinating functions of TPO. Studies in rats demonstrate that doses of thiourea which completely inhibit in vivo protein-bound iodine formation have no irreversible effect on TPO, as measured by guaiacol peroxidation after removal of the thyroids. The major in vivo action of cyanamide is similar to that of thiourea. The data suggest that the primary in vivo and in vitro mode of action of thiourea is the reversible Ioxid-trapping mechanism. The anomalous inhibition of guaiacol peroxidation seen in the presence of thiourea plus iodide derives from the formation of formamide disulfide, followed by its nonenzymic decomposition to cyanamide.", "PMID": 436767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3273", "title": "Interactions of gonadotropins with corpus luteum surface membranes. V. Differential effects of digitonin on the buoyant densities of light and heavy rat ovarian membrane fractions.", "content": "Previous studies have indicated that rat luteal cells at certain stages of development can be fractionated so as to obtain two plasma membrane fractions with different densities and different profiles of marker enzymes. The light membrane fractions (density 1.13) contain the majority of hCG-binding sites and little or no cyclase enzyme, while the heavy membranes (density 1.17) contain the majority of cyclase enzyme and lesser quantities of hormone-binding sites. These membrane fractions were further compared with respect to their susceptibility to perturbation by digitonin. The buoyant density of luteal cell light membrane fractions, as marked by [125I]iodo-hCG binding, Mg2+-dependent ATPase, and 5'-nucleotidase, were highly perturbable by digotonin (delta density, greater than 0.05), while adenylate cyclase activity and phosphodiesterase activity associated with this fraction were only slightly perturbed (delta density, less than 0.02). The buoyant density of luteal cell heavy membrane fractions, as marked by adenylate cyclase, ATPase, and nucleotidase, was not significantly perturbed by digotonin. The hCG binding associated with the heavy membrane fraction was not perturbed by digitonin. From these studies, we conclude that the adenylate cyclase activity associated with light membrane fractions is due to contamination by heavy membranes, while the hCG-binding activity in heavy membrane fractions is intrinsic to that membrane. Except for the lysosomal marker (glucuronidase), which was solubilized by digitonin, the detergent had no significant effect on the density of mitochondrial, Golgi, GERL (Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysomal), or endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Plasma membranes from isolated granulosa cells and ovaries obtained 24 h after priming with PMS gonadotropin-hCG behaved as heavy membranes (density, 1.17) which contained hCG-binding sites, adenylate cyclase, nucleotidase, and Mg2+-dependent ATPase. These were not significantly perturbed by digitonin. The appearance of light membranes and the segregation of adenylate cyclase from the majority of hCG-binding sites is a development feature of the luteal cell.", "contents": "Interactions of gonadotropins with corpus luteum surface membranes. V. Differential effects of digitonin on the buoyant densities of light and heavy rat ovarian membrane fractions. Previous studies have indicated that rat luteal cells at certain stages of development can be fractionated so as to obtain two plasma membrane fractions with different densities and different profiles of marker enzymes. The light membrane fractions (density 1.13) contain the majority of hCG-binding sites and little or no cyclase enzyme, while the heavy membranes (density 1.17) contain the majority of cyclase enzyme and lesser quantities of hormone-binding sites. These membrane fractions were further compared with respect to their susceptibility to perturbation by digitonin. The buoyant density of luteal cell light membrane fractions, as marked by [125I]iodo-hCG binding, Mg2+-dependent ATPase, and 5'-nucleotidase, were highly perturbable by digotonin (delta density, greater than 0.05), while adenylate cyclase activity and phosphodiesterase activity associated with this fraction were only slightly perturbed (delta density, less than 0.02). The buoyant density of luteal cell heavy membrane fractions, as marked by adenylate cyclase, ATPase, and nucleotidase, was not significantly perturbed by digotonin. The hCG binding associated with the heavy membrane fraction was not perturbed by digitonin. From these studies, we conclude that the adenylate cyclase activity associated with light membrane fractions is due to contamination by heavy membranes, while the hCG-binding activity in heavy membrane fractions is intrinsic to that membrane. Except for the lysosomal marker (glucuronidase), which was solubilized by digitonin, the detergent had no significant effect on the density of mitochondrial, Golgi, GERL (Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysomal), or endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Plasma membranes from isolated granulosa cells and ovaries obtained 24 h after priming with PMS gonadotropin-hCG behaved as heavy membranes (density, 1.17) which contained hCG-binding sites, adenylate cyclase, nucleotidase, and Mg2+-dependent ATPase. These were not significantly perturbed by digitonin. The appearance of light membranes and the segregation of adenylate cyclase from the majority of hCG-binding sites is a development feature of the luteal cell.", "PMID": 436771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3274", "title": "Effect of prostaglandins (F2 alpha, E1, and E2) on blood pressure and oxytocin-induced intramammary pressure responses in rats.", "content": "In lactating rats, vasoactive prostaglandin (PG) doses of F2 alpha (4 and 8 microgram/kg), E1, and E2 (2 and 4 microgram/kg each) reduced the intramammary pressure response to standard iv doses of 300 microU oxytocin by 50--80%. Adrenergic blockers, phenoxybenzamine and/or propranolol (1 mg/kg each sc) did not influence the blood pressure response to PGF2 alpha, PGE1, or PGE2. The oxytocin-antagonistic action of a single iv PGF2 alpha dose (4 microgram/kg) could not be altered by adrenergic blockers. In contrast, the oxytocin-antagonistic effects of PGE1 and PGE2 (2 microgram/kg each) were completely eliminated after alpha-receptor blockade, while the activity of oxytocin was augmented. Under beta-receptor or alpha- and beta-receptor blockade, the oxytocin-antagonistic effects of PGE1 and PGE2 were almost abolished. alpha-Receptor blockade reduced the oxytocin-antagonistic action of infused PGF2 alpha (8 microgram/kg.min for 15 min) by 38%. beta- or alpha- and beta-receptor blockade had no effect. The oxytocin-antagonistic actions of PGE1 and PGE2 (4 microgram/kg.min for 15 min each) were greatly reduced under alpha-receptor blockade. beta-Receptor blockade had no influence on the oxytocin-antagonistic activities of PGE1 or PGE2; under alpha- and beta-receptor blockade, the inhibitory actions of PGE1 and PGE2 were reduced by 60--70%. Mechanisms of PG-induced inhibition of the oxytocin response may involve mammary vasoconstriction and/or alterations in myoepithelial activity of cAMP and cGMP.", "contents": "Effect of prostaglandins (F2 alpha, E1, and E2) on blood pressure and oxytocin-induced intramammary pressure responses in rats. In lactating rats, vasoactive prostaglandin (PG) doses of F2 alpha (4 and 8 microgram/kg), E1, and E2 (2 and 4 microgram/kg each) reduced the intramammary pressure response to standard iv doses of 300 microU oxytocin by 50--80%. Adrenergic blockers, phenoxybenzamine and/or propranolol (1 mg/kg each sc) did not influence the blood pressure response to PGF2 alpha, PGE1, or PGE2. The oxytocin-antagonistic action of a single iv PGF2 alpha dose (4 microgram/kg) could not be altered by adrenergic blockers. In contrast, the oxytocin-antagonistic effects of PGE1 and PGE2 (2 microgram/kg each) were completely eliminated after alpha-receptor blockade, while the activity of oxytocin was augmented. Under beta-receptor or alpha- and beta-receptor blockade, the oxytocin-antagonistic effects of PGE1 and PGE2 were almost abolished. alpha-Receptor blockade reduced the oxytocin-antagonistic action of infused PGF2 alpha (8 microgram/kg.min for 15 min) by 38%. beta- or alpha- and beta-receptor blockade had no effect. The oxytocin-antagonistic actions of PGE1 and PGE2 (4 microgram/kg.min for 15 min each) were greatly reduced under alpha-receptor blockade. beta-Receptor blockade had no influence on the oxytocin-antagonistic activities of PGE1 or PGE2; under alpha- and beta-receptor blockade, the inhibitory actions of PGE1 and PGE2 were reduced by 60--70%. Mechanisms of PG-induced inhibition of the oxytocin response may involve mammary vasoconstriction and/or alterations in myoepithelial activity of cAMP and cGMP.", "PMID": 436772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3275", "title": "The cholesterol side chain cleavage system of the rat adrenal cortex and its relationship to the circadian rhythm.", "content": "The adrenal mitochondrial cytochrome P450 systems were examined at the low and high points of the circadian rhythm in female rats maintained on a light cycle from 0600--1800 h. The rate of association of cholesterol with the cholesterol side chain cleavage form of cytochorme P450 (P450scc) was measured by light absorption spectrometry. Cholesterol binding to P450scc was as high in rats killed at the beginning of the dark period as it was in stressed rats at the beginning of the light period. Stressing rats at the beginning of the dark period did not result in a further increase in the rate of cholesterol association with P450scc despite a further increase in serum corticosterone levels. This suggests that other reactions of cholesterol metabolism in the adrenal cortex are contributing in a significant way to the increased rate of corticosteroidogenesis seen in the stressed animals.", "contents": "The cholesterol side chain cleavage system of the rat adrenal cortex and its relationship to the circadian rhythm. The adrenal mitochondrial cytochrome P450 systems were examined at the low and high points of the circadian rhythm in female rats maintained on a light cycle from 0600--1800 h. The rate of association of cholesterol with the cholesterol side chain cleavage form of cytochorme P450 (P450scc) was measured by light absorption spectrometry. Cholesterol binding to P450scc was as high in rats killed at the beginning of the dark period as it was in stressed rats at the beginning of the light period. Stressing rats at the beginning of the dark period did not result in a further increase in the rate of cholesterol association with P450scc despite a further increase in serum corticosterone levels. This suggests that other reactions of cholesterol metabolism in the adrenal cortex are contributing in a significant way to the increased rate of corticosteroidogenesis seen in the stressed animals.", "PMID": 436774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3276", "title": "Somatostatin analogs inhibit somatostatin release.", "content": "To determine if, like insulin, somatostatin inhibits its own secretion from the pancreas, nonimmunoreactive analogs of somatostatin were perfused in an isolated dog pancreaticoduodenal preparation using a nonrecirculating system. [D-Trp8-D-Cys14]somatostatin, at a concentration of 200 ng/ml, blocked the response of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) to cholecystokinin and arginine. When perfusion of the analog was discontinued, SLI release increased. At a concentration of 0.1 ng/ml, des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin lowered SLI levels significantly without significantly reducing glucagon levels. At a concentration of 1 ng/ml, des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin significantly inhibited SLI as well as insulin and glucagon release. Perfusion of glucagon at a concentration of 10 ng/ml failed to overcome the blockade of SLI and insulin release caused by 50 ng/ml des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin. The results are compatible with a direct inhibitory effect of somatostatin analogs upon SLI release and raise the possibility of a self-inhibiting action of the native hormone.", "contents": "Somatostatin analogs inhibit somatostatin release. To determine if, like insulin, somatostatin inhibits its own secretion from the pancreas, nonimmunoreactive analogs of somatostatin were perfused in an isolated dog pancreaticoduodenal preparation using a nonrecirculating system. [D-Trp8-D-Cys14]somatostatin, at a concentration of 200 ng/ml, blocked the response of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) to cholecystokinin and arginine. When perfusion of the analog was discontinued, SLI release increased. At a concentration of 0.1 ng/ml, des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin lowered SLI levels significantly without significantly reducing glucagon levels. At a concentration of 1 ng/ml, des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin significantly inhibited SLI as well as insulin and glucagon release. Perfusion of glucagon at a concentration of 10 ng/ml failed to overcome the blockade of SLI and insulin release caused by 50 ng/ml des Asn5-[D-Trp8]somatostatin. The results are compatible with a direct inhibitory effect of somatostatin analogs upon SLI release and raise the possibility of a self-inhibiting action of the native hormone.", "PMID": 436775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3277", "title": "The mineralocorticoid antagonist activity of an 11 beta,18-oxidopregnane.", "content": "Removal of the 18-hydroxy group of the hemiacetal form of aldosterone transforms its activity from that of pure agonist to predominant antagonist. The 18-deoxy derivative possesses one third of the binding affinity of aldosterone for the cytoplasmic mineralocorticoid receptor of rat kidney and exhibits an approximate 2:1 antagonist to agonist ratio in both toad bladder and adrenalectomized rat bioassay systems. The promising properties of the 11 beta,18-oxidopregnane tested included very low androgen receptor affinity and approximately equal effectiveness in vitro and in vivo in displacing aldosterone from mineralocorticoid-binding sites in the rat.", "contents": "The mineralocorticoid antagonist activity of an 11 beta,18-oxidopregnane. Removal of the 18-hydroxy group of the hemiacetal form of aldosterone transforms its activity from that of pure agonist to predominant antagonist. The 18-deoxy derivative possesses one third of the binding affinity of aldosterone for the cytoplasmic mineralocorticoid receptor of rat kidney and exhibits an approximate 2:1 antagonist to agonist ratio in both toad bladder and adrenalectomized rat bioassay systems. The promising properties of the 11 beta,18-oxidopregnane tested included very low androgen receptor affinity and approximately equal effectiveness in vitro and in vivo in displacing aldosterone from mineralocorticoid-binding sites in the rat.", "PMID": 436780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3278", "title": "Aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and prolactin changes during the lifespan of chronically and spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "Male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), which develop hypertension spontaneously with maturation, were autopsied at select time intervals from weaning to 28 months. Their blood pressure began to rise steeply at 4--5 weeks, reaching a zenith of 180--240 mm Hg after 4 months. Elevated blood pressures were maintained in both sexes. After 20 months, the male SHR began to die of myocardial infarction and hypotensive crisis. Heart and adrenal gland weight increased progressively not only during the phase of rapidly rising blood pressure but also during the period of plateaued but sustained high blood pressure. RIA of plasma levels of aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and PRL, under both quiescent and mildly stressful conditions, demonstrated that the pituitary-adrenal axis of SHR progressively increases its propensity to respond to stress with maturation. This capacity to respond to stress was maintained despite the severe high blood pressure and the attainment of relative old age, i.e. 2 yr. An incremental change in circulating PRL, corticosterone, and aldosterone as early as 2 months of age, when blood pressure levels are beginning to rise, suggests that there may be some connection between the genetically programmed pathogenesis of the spontaneous hypertension and the progressively increasing (with age) sensitivity of the pituitary-adrenal axis to stress.", "contents": "Aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and prolactin changes during the lifespan of chronically and spontaneously hypertensive rats. Male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), which develop hypertension spontaneously with maturation, were autopsied at select time intervals from weaning to 28 months. Their blood pressure began to rise steeply at 4--5 weeks, reaching a zenith of 180--240 mm Hg after 4 months. Elevated blood pressures were maintained in both sexes. After 20 months, the male SHR began to die of myocardial infarction and hypotensive crisis. Heart and adrenal gland weight increased progressively not only during the phase of rapidly rising blood pressure but also during the period of plateaued but sustained high blood pressure. RIA of plasma levels of aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and PRL, under both quiescent and mildly stressful conditions, demonstrated that the pituitary-adrenal axis of SHR progressively increases its propensity to respond to stress with maturation. This capacity to respond to stress was maintained despite the severe high blood pressure and the attainment of relative old age, i.e. 2 yr. An incremental change in circulating PRL, corticosterone, and aldosterone as early as 2 months of age, when blood pressure levels are beginning to rise, suggests that there may be some connection between the genetically programmed pathogenesis of the spontaneous hypertension and the progressively increasing (with age) sensitivity of the pituitary-adrenal axis to stress.", "PMID": 436781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3279", "title": "The ontogony of the human placental glucocorticoid receptor and inducibility of heat-stable alkaline phosphatase.", "content": "The human placenta was found to contain a cytosol receptor for glucocorticoids. The concentration of this receptor in term placenta was 27-fold higher than that found in cytosol from first trimester placenta. The levels of cytosol glucocorticoid receptor in three trophoblastic cell lines (JAr, BeWo, and JEG) were also determined and all were found to be low. The ability of prednisolone, a potent glucocorticoid, to stimulate heat-stable alkaline phosphatase activity found in these cells was tested. Although control experiments demonstrated that the conditions were adequate to stimulate HeLa cell alkaline phosphatase, none of the trophoblastic lines responded to prednisolone administration. This result may be explained by the observation that the JAr cells lacked any detectable glucocorticoid receptor and the receptor levels in cytosol prepared from JEG and BeWo cells were 12% and 2%, respectively, of those measured in HeLa cytosol. Our studies also suggest that the increase in serum levels of heat-stable alkaline phosphatase observed during pregnancy may reflect increasing placental sensitivity to glucocorticoids as a result of increased receptor levels.", "contents": "The ontogony of the human placental glucocorticoid receptor and inducibility of heat-stable alkaline phosphatase. The human placenta was found to contain a cytosol receptor for glucocorticoids. The concentration of this receptor in term placenta was 27-fold higher than that found in cytosol from first trimester placenta. The levels of cytosol glucocorticoid receptor in three trophoblastic cell lines (JAr, BeWo, and JEG) were also determined and all were found to be low. The ability of prednisolone, a potent glucocorticoid, to stimulate heat-stable alkaline phosphatase activity found in these cells was tested. Although control experiments demonstrated that the conditions were adequate to stimulate HeLa cell alkaline phosphatase, none of the trophoblastic lines responded to prednisolone administration. This result may be explained by the observation that the JAr cells lacked any detectable glucocorticoid receptor and the receptor levels in cytosol prepared from JEG and BeWo cells were 12% and 2%, respectively, of those measured in HeLa cytosol. Our studies also suggest that the increase in serum levels of heat-stable alkaline phosphatase observed during pregnancy may reflect increasing placental sensitivity to glucocorticoids as a result of increased receptor levels.", "PMID": 436782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3280", "title": "Suppression of vasopressin secretion by clonidine: effect of alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists.", "content": "Studies were performed in anesthetized dogs to determine if the diuretic effect of clonidine results from inhibition of vasopressin secretion. Intravenous clonidine (30 microgram/kg) decreased plasma vasopressin concentration (as measured by RIA) from 10.9 +/- 1.5 to 5.0 +/- 1.1 ng/ml (P less than 0.01) in association with a transient increase in arterial blood pressure and a decrease in heart rate. Intravenous administration of two alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists, piperoxane and phentolamine, virtually abolished the pressor effect of clonidine but did not prevent the suppression of plasma vasopressin concentration. Clonidine decreased plasma vasopressin concentration from 11.9 +/- 3.1 to 3.3 +/- 1.0 pg/ml in the phentolamine-treated dogs (P less than 0.01) and from 18.1 +/- 4.5 to 12.4 +/- 3.6 pg/ml in the piperoxane-treated dogs (P less than 0.05). These results provide direct evidence that the diuretic effect of clonidine results from inhibition of the secretion of vasopressin. This inhibition does not appear to be a consequence of the pressor effect of the drug but may result from a direct action in the central nervous system.", "contents": "Suppression of vasopressin secretion by clonidine: effect of alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists. Studies were performed in anesthetized dogs to determine if the diuretic effect of clonidine results from inhibition of vasopressin secretion. Intravenous clonidine (30 microgram/kg) decreased plasma vasopressin concentration (as measured by RIA) from 10.9 +/- 1.5 to 5.0 +/- 1.1 ng/ml (P less than 0.01) in association with a transient increase in arterial blood pressure and a decrease in heart rate. Intravenous administration of two alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists, piperoxane and phentolamine, virtually abolished the pressor effect of clonidine but did not prevent the suppression of plasma vasopressin concentration. Clonidine decreased plasma vasopressin concentration from 11.9 +/- 3.1 to 3.3 +/- 1.0 pg/ml in the phentolamine-treated dogs (P less than 0.01) and from 18.1 +/- 4.5 to 12.4 +/- 3.6 pg/ml in the piperoxane-treated dogs (P less than 0.05). These results provide direct evidence that the diuretic effect of clonidine results from inhibition of the secretion of vasopressin. This inhibition does not appear to be a consequence of the pressor effect of the drug but may result from a direct action in the central nervous system.", "PMID": 436784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3281", "title": "Immunoreactive somatostatin in rat hypophysial portal blood.", "content": "Somatostatin levels have been determined by RIA in hypophysial portal blood of pentobarbital-anesthetized male rats. In most animals, immunoreactive somatostatin (SRIF) levels were higher in hypophysial portal blood than in systemic blood. In euthyroid rats, the mean level was 158 +/- 27 pg/ml (n = 8); SRIF was undetectable (less than 30 pg/ml) in systemic blood of these rats. It is suggested that endogenous SRIF was not degraded during the collection of stalk blood, since synthetic SRIF is stable when incubated in rat serum during 4 min at 37 c and 2 h at 0 C, i.e. under the conditions the blood was kept during the collection. SRIF in hypophysial portal plasma had the same immunoreactivity with a specific antiserum against SRIF as did synthetic SRIF. Gel filtration of hypophysial portal plasma revealed two immunoreactive peaks, the major one corresponding to synthetic SRIF, the smaller one representing a larger molecular form. Thyroidectomy and excess of T4 did not modify the levels of SRIF in hypophysial portal blood, suggestinc SRIF is stable when incubated in rat serum during 4 min at 37 C and 2 h at 0 C, i.e. under the conditions the blood was kept during the collection. SRIF in hypophysial portal plasma had the same immunoreactivity with a specific antiserum against SRIF as did synthetic SRIF. Gel filtration of hypophysial portal plasma revealed two immunoreactive peaks, the major one corresponding to synthetic SRIF, the smaller one representing a large molecular form. Thyroidectomy and excess of T4 did not modify the levels of SRIF in hypophysial portal blood, suggesting that the feedback of thyroid hormones on TSH secretion does not involve changes in the secretion of SRIF by the hypothalamus.", "contents": "Immunoreactive somatostatin in rat hypophysial portal blood. Somatostatin levels have been determined by RIA in hypophysial portal blood of pentobarbital-anesthetized male rats. In most animals, immunoreactive somatostatin (SRIF) levels were higher in hypophysial portal blood than in systemic blood. In euthyroid rats, the mean level was 158 +/- 27 pg/ml (n = 8); SRIF was undetectable (less than 30 pg/ml) in systemic blood of these rats. It is suggested that endogenous SRIF was not degraded during the collection of stalk blood, since synthetic SRIF is stable when incubated in rat serum during 4 min at 37 c and 2 h at 0 C, i.e. under the conditions the blood was kept during the collection. SRIF in hypophysial portal plasma had the same immunoreactivity with a specific antiserum against SRIF as did synthetic SRIF. Gel filtration of hypophysial portal plasma revealed two immunoreactive peaks, the major one corresponding to synthetic SRIF, the smaller one representing a larger molecular form. Thyroidectomy and excess of T4 did not modify the levels of SRIF in hypophysial portal blood, suggestinc SRIF is stable when incubated in rat serum during 4 min at 37 C and 2 h at 0 C, i.e. under the conditions the blood was kept during the collection. SRIF in hypophysial portal plasma had the same immunoreactivity with a specific antiserum against SRIF as did synthetic SRIF. Gel filtration of hypophysial portal plasma revealed two immunoreactive peaks, the major one corresponding to synthetic SRIF, the smaller one representing a large molecular form. Thyroidectomy and excess of T4 did not modify the levels of SRIF in hypophysial portal blood, suggesting that the feedback of thyroid hormones on TSH secretion does not involve changes in the secretion of SRIF by the hypothalamus.", "PMID": 436785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3282", "title": "Changes in the testosterone to dihydrotestosterone ratio in plasma and testes of maturing rabbits.", "content": "Testosterone (T) and dihydrostestosterone (DHT) were radioimmunologically assayed in the testes and plasma of rabbits at 1, 10, 20, 40, and 60 days of age and at 3, 4, 5, and 8 months. In the testis (nanograms per 100 mg testis) and plasma (picograms per ml), both hormones are low at birth, reach their maxima between 60--90 days, and then decline and remain low after 120 days. In the testes, the T:DHT ratio is very high from birth (4.2 +/- 0.4) to 60 days (8.8 +/- 1.1). A significant decrease (P less than 0.001) occurs between 60 (8.8 +/- 1.1) and 90 (1.2 +/- 0.1) days. The T:DHT ratio is always less than or equal to unity after 90 days. From 1--60 days, T is the dominant testicular hormone, while the levels of DHT are greater than or equal to those of T after 60 days. The mean value of the plasma T:DHT ratio is always greater than unity from birth (1.7 +/- 0.4) to adulthood (2.6 +/- 0.7). The dominant circulating hormone, at all ages, is T. Our results show that sexual maturation in rabbits is characterized by an inversion of the T:DHT ratio in the testes but not in the plasma.", "contents": "Changes in the testosterone to dihydrotestosterone ratio in plasma and testes of maturing rabbits. Testosterone (T) and dihydrostestosterone (DHT) were radioimmunologically assayed in the testes and plasma of rabbits at 1, 10, 20, 40, and 60 days of age and at 3, 4, 5, and 8 months. In the testis (nanograms per 100 mg testis) and plasma (picograms per ml), both hormones are low at birth, reach their maxima between 60--90 days, and then decline and remain low after 120 days. In the testes, the T:DHT ratio is very high from birth (4.2 +/- 0.4) to 60 days (8.8 +/- 1.1). A significant decrease (P less than 0.001) occurs between 60 (8.8 +/- 1.1) and 90 (1.2 +/- 0.1) days. The T:DHT ratio is always less than or equal to unity after 90 days. From 1--60 days, T is the dominant testicular hormone, while the levels of DHT are greater than or equal to those of T after 60 days. The mean value of the plasma T:DHT ratio is always greater than unity from birth (1.7 +/- 0.4) to adulthood (2.6 +/- 0.7). The dominant circulating hormone, at all ages, is T. Our results show that sexual maturation in rabbits is characterized by an inversion of the T:DHT ratio in the testes but not in the plasma.", "PMID": 436787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3283", "title": "The interaction between dietary calcium and gonadal hormones in their effect on plasma calcium, bone, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase, and duodenal calcium-binding protein, measured by a radioimmunoassay in chicks.", "content": "Male chicks, fed low, normal, or high calcium- and cholecalciferol-containing diets for 14 days, were given three combined injections of 17 beta-estradiol and testosterone (7 and 2.4 mg/kg/dose, respectively) or the vehicle alone, at 3-day intervals. The hormonal treatment resulted in increased plasma calcium and medullary bone calcium concentrations, independently of the dietary calcium intake. Kidney 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase and duodenal calcium-binding protein were increased in response to gonadal hormones. The magnitude of this response markedly diminished with increased calcium intake and almost completely disappeared in chicks fed the high calcium diet. The results suggest that the increases in plasma calcium and medullary bone formation due to gonadal hormones are independent of calcium intake while the effect of hormones on duodenal calcium-binding protein and the 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase activity appears to be mediated through the change in calcium needs due to medullary bone formation.", "contents": "The interaction between dietary calcium and gonadal hormones in their effect on plasma calcium, bone, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase, and duodenal calcium-binding protein, measured by a radioimmunoassay in chicks. Male chicks, fed low, normal, or high calcium- and cholecalciferol-containing diets for 14 days, were given three combined injections of 17 beta-estradiol and testosterone (7 and 2.4 mg/kg/dose, respectively) or the vehicle alone, at 3-day intervals. The hormonal treatment resulted in increased plasma calcium and medullary bone calcium concentrations, independently of the dietary calcium intake. Kidney 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase and duodenal calcium-binding protein were increased in response to gonadal hormones. The magnitude of this response markedly diminished with increased calcium intake and almost completely disappeared in chicks fed the high calcium diet. The results suggest that the increases in plasma calcium and medullary bone formation due to gonadal hormones are independent of calcium intake while the effect of hormones on duodenal calcium-binding protein and the 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase activity appears to be mediated through the change in calcium needs due to medullary bone formation.", "PMID": 436788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3284", "title": "Effects of calcitonin and other hormones on bile calcium excretion in thyroparathyroidectomized rats.", "content": "The effects of calcitonin (CT) and other hormones on the bile calcium excretion after a single intraperitoneal administration of calcium (4.0 mg/100 g BW) was investigated in thyroparathyroidectomized rats. Porcine, salmon, and synthetic eel CT (80 MRCmU/100 g BW, respectively) markedly increased the bile calcium excretion in comparison with that of calcium-administered rats. Tetragastrin (7.5 microgram/100 g BW), and insulin (50 mU/100 g BW) did not alter significantly the bile calcium excretion, while epinephrine (100 microgram/100 g BW), glucagon (50 microgram/100 g BW), and parathyroid hormone (25 U/100 g BW) increased significantly. The increasable effect of CT on the bile calcium excretion was significantly prevented by epinephrine (10 and 100 microgram/100 g BW). The present results suggest that the bile calcium excretion may be increased by the hormones which causes the elevation of cyclic AMP in the liver cells of rats.", "contents": "Effects of calcitonin and other hormones on bile calcium excretion in thyroparathyroidectomized rats. The effects of calcitonin (CT) and other hormones on the bile calcium excretion after a single intraperitoneal administration of calcium (4.0 mg/100 g BW) was investigated in thyroparathyroidectomized rats. Porcine, salmon, and synthetic eel CT (80 MRCmU/100 g BW, respectively) markedly increased the bile calcium excretion in comparison with that of calcium-administered rats. Tetragastrin (7.5 microgram/100 g BW), and insulin (50 mU/100 g BW) did not alter significantly the bile calcium excretion, while epinephrine (100 microgram/100 g BW), glucagon (50 microgram/100 g BW), and parathyroid hormone (25 U/100 g BW) increased significantly. The increasable effect of CT on the bile calcium excretion was significantly prevented by epinephrine (10 and 100 microgram/100 g BW). The present results suggest that the bile calcium excretion may be increased by the hormones which causes the elevation of cyclic AMP in the liver cells of rats.", "PMID": 436794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3285", "title": "Chromatin transcription by progesterone-receptor complex in rabbit uterus.", "content": "This study was designed to investigate the chromatin transcription in vitro by progesterone-receptor complex in the estrogen-primed rabbit uterus. RNA synthesis by the uterine chromatin was stimulated when progesterone-uterine cytosol complex was bound to the chromatin and the stimulation was dependent upon the dose of the bound progesterone-cytosol 8S complex and upon the incubation time of the complex in the presence of the chromatin. Either norethindrone- or dydrogesterone-uterine cytosol complex also stimulated the uterine chromatin transcription but the extent was less than that of progesterone complex. These results indicate that progesterone as well as synthetic progestogens can directly regulate chromatin transcription via progesterone receptor in the rabbit uterine cells.", "contents": "Chromatin transcription by progesterone-receptor complex in rabbit uterus. This study was designed to investigate the chromatin transcription in vitro by progesterone-receptor complex in the estrogen-primed rabbit uterus. RNA synthesis by the uterine chromatin was stimulated when progesterone-uterine cytosol complex was bound to the chromatin and the stimulation was dependent upon the dose of the bound progesterone-cytosol 8S complex and upon the incubation time of the complex in the presence of the chromatin. Either norethindrone- or dydrogesterone-uterine cytosol complex also stimulated the uterine chromatin transcription but the extent was less than that of progesterone complex. These results indicate that progesterone as well as synthetic progestogens can directly regulate chromatin transcription via progesterone receptor in the rabbit uterine cells.", "PMID": 436795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3286", "title": "A case of insulin resistant diabetes with possible antibodies to insulin receptors.", "content": "A case of a 19-year-old, non-obese female with insulin resistant diabetes mellitus and polycystic ovary syndrome was reported. The maximal insulin requirement attained 360 units per day, but a satisfactory control of diabetes did not follow. The patient's serum contained not only anti-insulin antibodies, but also possible anti-insulin receptor antibodies which were demonstrated by the 125I-insulin binding test using insulin receptors derived from human placental plasma membrane. The insulin resistance in this case was assumed to be caused primarily by possible blocking antibodies to insulin receptors and partly by anti-insulin antibodies because of the following observations. First, high serum free insulin (165 microunits/ml) without hypoglycemia indicates the presence of insulin resistance due to other factors than antiinsulin antibodies. Second, the titer of 125I-insulin binding capacity of serum was not unusually higher than those seen in chronically insulin-treated diabetics. Third, immunologically heterospecies insulin (fish insulin) was also ineffective. The clinical features such as absence of ketoacidosis and association with polycystic ovary syndrome resemble those of an unique diabetic syndrome reported previously though acanthosis nigricans and endogenous hyperinsulinemia were not found in this case. Her insulin resistance remitted spontaneously and over the next 18 months' observation, her diabetes remained regulated without insulin therapy.", "contents": "A case of insulin resistant diabetes with possible antibodies to insulin receptors. A case of a 19-year-old, non-obese female with insulin resistant diabetes mellitus and polycystic ovary syndrome was reported. The maximal insulin requirement attained 360 units per day, but a satisfactory control of diabetes did not follow. The patient's serum contained not only anti-insulin antibodies, but also possible anti-insulin receptor antibodies which were demonstrated by the 125I-insulin binding test using insulin receptors derived from human placental plasma membrane. The insulin resistance in this case was assumed to be caused primarily by possible blocking antibodies to insulin receptors and partly by anti-insulin antibodies because of the following observations. First, high serum free insulin (165 microunits/ml) without hypoglycemia indicates the presence of insulin resistance due to other factors than antiinsulin antibodies. Second, the titer of 125I-insulin binding capacity of serum was not unusually higher than those seen in chronically insulin-treated diabetics. Third, immunologically heterospecies insulin (fish insulin) was also ineffective. The clinical features such as absence of ketoacidosis and association with polycystic ovary syndrome resemble those of an unique diabetic syndrome reported previously though acanthosis nigricans and endogenous hyperinsulinemia were not found in this case. Her insulin resistance remitted spontaneously and over the next 18 months' observation, her diabetes remained regulated without insulin therapy.", "PMID": 436798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3287", "title": "Studies on the effect of neonatal hypermetabolism on hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis in adult rats.", "content": "Neonatal rats which had received a daily injection of 50 microgram of 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) or 30 microgram of L-thyroxine (T 4) for 7 days beginning on the day of birth were compared as to the late effect of the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis with the neo saline control. Neo DNP rats and neo T 4 rats revealed the retardation of growth compared with neo saline rats. The plasma level of TSH in both groups presented its low response following TRH administration. Furthermore, plasma TSH levels following the challenge of PTU were depressed in both neo DNP and neo T 4 rats compared with neo saline control rats. A small dose of T 4 injection, however, did not bring any difference on plasma TSH levels between neo T 4 and neo saline control rats while neo DNP rats showed a little blunted response of pituitary compared with neo T 4 and neo saline rats. Pituitary contents of TSH in neo T 4 rats decreased, but not in neo DNP rats. These results suggest that neonatal hypermetabolism causes the hypofunction of pituitary-thyroid axis through adult life and that the alteration of hypothalamus may be more obvious in neo T 4 rats than in neo DNP rats.", "contents": "Studies on the effect of neonatal hypermetabolism on hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis in adult rats. Neonatal rats which had received a daily injection of 50 microgram of 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) or 30 microgram of L-thyroxine (T 4) for 7 days beginning on the day of birth were compared as to the late effect of the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis with the neo saline control. Neo DNP rats and neo T 4 rats revealed the retardation of growth compared with neo saline rats. The plasma level of TSH in both groups presented its low response following TRH administration. Furthermore, plasma TSH levels following the challenge of PTU were depressed in both neo DNP and neo T 4 rats compared with neo saline control rats. A small dose of T 4 injection, however, did not bring any difference on plasma TSH levels between neo T 4 and neo saline control rats while neo DNP rats showed a little blunted response of pituitary compared with neo T 4 and neo saline rats. Pituitary contents of TSH in neo T 4 rats decreased, but not in neo DNP rats. These results suggest that neonatal hypermetabolism causes the hypofunction of pituitary-thyroid axis through adult life and that the alteration of hypothalamus may be more obvious in neo T 4 rats than in neo DNP rats.", "PMID": 436799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3288", "title": "Effects of oral administration of trypsin inhibitor and repeated injections of pancreozymin on the insulin and glucagon contents of rat pancreas.", "content": "Rats were given soybean trypsin inhibitor or repeatedly injected with pancreozymin (daily 40 I.D.U./kg) for 7 days, and the insulin and glucagon contents of the pancreas were measured. The insulin and glucagon contents were markedly increased after these treatments and this effect was especially conspicuous after injections of large doses (daily 120 I.D.U.) of depot-type pancreozymin. Insulin content thus reached 1.9 times, and glucagon content 2.4 times as much in control values. This result is compatible with our previous histological finding that not only the exocrine pancreas but also islet cells undergo the trophic effect of endogenous and exogenous pancreozymin.", "contents": "Effects of oral administration of trypsin inhibitor and repeated injections of pancreozymin on the insulin and glucagon contents of rat pancreas. Rats were given soybean trypsin inhibitor or repeatedly injected with pancreozymin (daily 40 I.D.U./kg) for 7 days, and the insulin and glucagon contents of the pancreas were measured. The insulin and glucagon contents were markedly increased after these treatments and this effect was especially conspicuous after injections of large doses (daily 120 I.D.U.) of depot-type pancreozymin. Insulin content thus reached 1.9 times, and glucagon content 2.4 times as much in control values. This result is compatible with our previous histological finding that not only the exocrine pancreas but also islet cells undergo the trophic effect of endogenous and exogenous pancreozymin.", "PMID": 436800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3289", "title": "Half life of gastrointestinal glucagon-like immunoreactive materials.", "content": "The composition, half life and hyperglycemic action of the porcine gastrointestinal glucagon-like immunoreactive materials were examined. Glucagon immunoreactivity (GI) measured using specific antiglucagon serum was more abundunt in the extract from the gastric fundus than in the one from the small intestine. When the extract from the gastric fundus was injected in dogs, the half life (T1/2) of total glucagon-like immunoreactivity (total GLI) measured using nonspecific antiglucagon serum was 9.5 +/- 1.1 min (mean +/- SEM), which was longer than that of crystalline pancreatic glucagon, 3.4 +/- 0.2 min, but shorter than that of the extract from the small intestine, 15.9 +/- 1.3 min. On the other hand, T1/2 for GI from the gastric fundus was 5.1 +/- 0.9 min, which was not significantly different from that of crystalline pancreatic glucagon. Blood sugar levels were significantly increased from the basal by 25 +/- 4 mg/100 ml at 10 min and 19 +/- 4 mg/100 ml at 15 min following an injection of the extract from the gastric fundus, but such a change in blood sugar levels was not demonstrated when the extract from the small intestine was injected. These results suggest that GI of the gastric fundus is close to pancreatic glucagon in respect of its metabolism and hyperglycemic activity.", "contents": "Half life of gastrointestinal glucagon-like immunoreactive materials. The composition, half life and hyperglycemic action of the porcine gastrointestinal glucagon-like immunoreactive materials were examined. Glucagon immunoreactivity (GI) measured using specific antiglucagon serum was more abundunt in the extract from the gastric fundus than in the one from the small intestine. When the extract from the gastric fundus was injected in dogs, the half life (T1/2) of total glucagon-like immunoreactivity (total GLI) measured using nonspecific antiglucagon serum was 9.5 +/- 1.1 min (mean +/- SEM), which was longer than that of crystalline pancreatic glucagon, 3.4 +/- 0.2 min, but shorter than that of the extract from the small intestine, 15.9 +/- 1.3 min. On the other hand, T1/2 for GI from the gastric fundus was 5.1 +/- 0.9 min, which was not significantly different from that of crystalline pancreatic glucagon. Blood sugar levels were significantly increased from the basal by 25 +/- 4 mg/100 ml at 10 min and 19 +/- 4 mg/100 ml at 15 min following an injection of the extract from the gastric fundus, but such a change in blood sugar levels was not demonstrated when the extract from the small intestine was injected. These results suggest that GI of the gastric fundus is close to pancreatic glucagon in respect of its metabolism and hyperglycemic activity.", "PMID": 436801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3290", "title": "Human plasma C-peptide immunoreactivity: its correlation with immunoreactive insulin in diabetes, and chronic liver and renal diseases.", "content": "The correlation between plasma C-peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) and immunoreactive insulin (IRI) was investigated during the oral glucose tolerance test in 20 normals, 127 diabetics, and 39 non-diabetics with chronic liver or renal disorders. When all subjects were included, the increment of CPR 30 minutes after glucose load (deltaCPR) correlated well with that of IRI (deltaIRI) (r = 0.66, p less than 0.001), but the return of CPR towards the basal level was delayed as compared with IRI. The positive correlation was also observed between the sum of 6 IRI and that of 6 CPR values during the glucose tolerance test in diabetics and controls (r = 0.53, p less than 0.001). deltaCPR/deltaBS (30 min.) was also well correlated with deltaIRI/deltaBS (30 min.), and was specifically low in diabetics. Insulin-treated maturity-onset diabetics showed low but considerable CPR responses while no CPR responses were observed in insulin-treated juvenile diabetics. In each plasma sample, CPR always exceeded IRI on the molar basis. At fasting CPR/IRI ratio was 15.6 +/- 1.7 (mean +/- SE) in normals and 14.9 +/- 1.3 approximately 16.9 +/- 1.0 in diabetics. In chronic liver diseases IRI response was augmented while CPR response was not different from that of controls, and the molar ratio of CPR/IRI was significantly low (9.5 +/- 1.1). On the contrary, it exceeded that of normals in chronic renal diseases (35.7 +/- 14.9). It is concluded that, first, the plasma CPR response appears to be a valuable indicator of pancreatic B-cell function, and second, it is, nevertheless, modified in chronic liver or renal disorders.", "contents": "Human plasma C-peptide immunoreactivity: its correlation with immunoreactive insulin in diabetes, and chronic liver and renal diseases. The correlation between plasma C-peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) and immunoreactive insulin (IRI) was investigated during the oral glucose tolerance test in 20 normals, 127 diabetics, and 39 non-diabetics with chronic liver or renal disorders. When all subjects were included, the increment of CPR 30 minutes after glucose load (deltaCPR) correlated well with that of IRI (deltaIRI) (r = 0.66, p less than 0.001), but the return of CPR towards the basal level was delayed as compared with IRI. The positive correlation was also observed between the sum of 6 IRI and that of 6 CPR values during the glucose tolerance test in diabetics and controls (r = 0.53, p less than 0.001). deltaCPR/deltaBS (30 min.) was also well correlated with deltaIRI/deltaBS (30 min.), and was specifically low in diabetics. Insulin-treated maturity-onset diabetics showed low but considerable CPR responses while no CPR responses were observed in insulin-treated juvenile diabetics. In each plasma sample, CPR always exceeded IRI on the molar basis. At fasting CPR/IRI ratio was 15.6 +/- 1.7 (mean +/- SE) in normals and 14.9 +/- 1.3 approximately 16.9 +/- 1.0 in diabetics. In chronic liver diseases IRI response was augmented while CPR response was not different from that of controls, and the molar ratio of CPR/IRI was significantly low (9.5 +/- 1.1). On the contrary, it exceeded that of normals in chronic renal diseases (35.7 +/- 14.9). It is concluded that, first, the plasma CPR response appears to be a valuable indicator of pancreatic B-cell function, and second, it is, nevertheless, modified in chronic liver or renal disorders.", "PMID": 436802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3291", "title": "Studies on the nuclear binding of steroid hormone-receptor complex; binding of liver and thymus dexamethasone-receptor complex and prostate dihydrotestosterone-receptor complex to nuclei from various tissues.", "content": "To examine the binding specificity of steroid hormone-cytoplasmic receptor complexes to nuclei, binding of 3H-dexamethasone (Dex)-liver, 3H-Dex-thymus and 3H-dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-prostate receptor complexes to nuclei from liver, prostate, thymus, spleen and kidney was studied. It was observed that a significant amount of steroid-receptor complexes was bound to any nuclei used in the present study and the extent of the binding of receptor complexes to nuclei from homologous tissues was not always greater than that to nuclei from heterogenous tissues. However, a significant portion of the 3H-Dex-liver and 3H-DHT-prostate receptor complexes was not absorbed by nuclei from kidney, spleem, and thymus, and the unabsorbed complexes were efficiently bound to liver and prostate nuclei. The results obtained indicate that two types of receptor complex with regard to nuclear binding were present in cytosols of liver and prostate; one binds to nuclei from kidney, spleen, thymus, liver and prostate and the other does not bind to nuclei from kidney, spleen and thymus but does bind to nuclei of liver and prostate. The latter type of receptor complex was not observed in the cytosol from the thymus.", "contents": "Studies on the nuclear binding of steroid hormone-receptor complex; binding of liver and thymus dexamethasone-receptor complex and prostate dihydrotestosterone-receptor complex to nuclei from various tissues. To examine the binding specificity of steroid hormone-cytoplasmic receptor complexes to nuclei, binding of 3H-dexamethasone (Dex)-liver, 3H-Dex-thymus and 3H-dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-prostate receptor complexes to nuclei from liver, prostate, thymus, spleen and kidney was studied. It was observed that a significant amount of steroid-receptor complexes was bound to any nuclei used in the present study and the extent of the binding of receptor complexes to nuclei from homologous tissues was not always greater than that to nuclei from heterogenous tissues. However, a significant portion of the 3H-Dex-liver and 3H-DHT-prostate receptor complexes was not absorbed by nuclei from kidney, spleem, and thymus, and the unabsorbed complexes were efficiently bound to liver and prostate nuclei. The results obtained indicate that two types of receptor complex with regard to nuclear binding were present in cytosols of liver and prostate; one binds to nuclei from kidney, spleen, thymus, liver and prostate and the other does not bind to nuclei from kidney, spleen and thymus but does bind to nuclei of liver and prostate. The latter type of receptor complex was not observed in the cytosol from the thymus.", "PMID": 436803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3292", "title": "Stability of isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase in various buffer systems.", "content": "The stability of isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase from liver, bones and small intestine was compared after addition to inactivated serum in the buffer systems: glycine, 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, diethanolamine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propandiol at 37 degrees C. The mentioned isoenzymes were inactivated to different extents in glycine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol buffers. In diethanolamine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propandiol buffers sufficient stability of isoenzymes is obtained so that only these buffers are suitable for activity determinations of alkaline phosphatase at 37 degrees C.", "contents": "Stability of isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase in various buffer systems. The stability of isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase from liver, bones and small intestine was compared after addition to inactivated serum in the buffer systems: glycine, 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, diethanolamine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propandiol at 37 degrees C. The mentioned isoenzymes were inactivated to different extents in glycine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol buffers. In diethanolamine and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propandiol buffers sufficient stability of isoenzymes is obtained so that only these buffers are suitable for activity determinations of alkaline phosphatase at 37 degrees C.", "PMID": 436806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3293", "title": "Copper regulation of ceruloplasmin in copper-deficient rats.", "content": "In copper-deficient rats, oral intubation of copper increases the rate of ceruloplasmin synthesis without affecting general synthesis of plasma or liver proteins. It also restores the enzyme from half to full activity. Copper given by injection at doses commonly employed has additional nonspecific effects on protein synthesis and in some strains of rats produces severe hemolysis. In contrast to deficient rats, in normal rats copper does not elevate plasma ceruloplasmin unless hemolysis also occurs. Thus, at least in deficiency, copper availability controls the rate of synthesis, acitvation, and plasma concentration of ceruloplasmin.", "contents": "Copper regulation of ceruloplasmin in copper-deficient rats. In copper-deficient rats, oral intubation of copper increases the rate of ceruloplasmin synthesis without affecting general synthesis of plasma or liver proteins. It also restores the enzyme from half to full activity. Copper given by injection at doses commonly employed has additional nonspecific effects on protein synthesis and in some strains of rats produces severe hemolysis. In contrast to deficient rats, in normal rats copper does not elevate plasma ceruloplasmin unless hemolysis also occurs. Thus, at least in deficiency, copper availability controls the rate of synthesis, acitvation, and plasma concentration of ceruloplasmin.", "PMID": 436807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3294", "title": "Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from lactating rat mammary gland and R3230AC adenocarcinoma.", "content": "A number of properties of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from lactating rat mammary gland and R3230AC rat mammary adenocarcinoma are compared. The main electrophoretic forms of the enzyme from these sources are indistinguishable with respect to charge and molecular weight whereas the minor forms show differences in these properties. The subunit molecular weight and steroid inhibition of the enzymes from the lactating gland and tumor are not significantly different. These results are contrasted with similar studies in mice.", "contents": "Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from lactating rat mammary gland and R3230AC adenocarcinoma. A number of properties of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from lactating rat mammary gland and R3230AC rat mammary adenocarcinoma are compared. The main electrophoretic forms of the enzyme from these sources are indistinguishable with respect to charge and molecular weight whereas the minor forms show differences in these properties. The subunit molecular weight and steroid inhibition of the enzymes from the lactating gland and tumor are not significantly different. These results are contrasted with similar studies in mice.", "PMID": 436808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3295", "title": "Isatin-enzyme interactions. VII. Mechanism of inhibition of rat kidney alkaline phosphatase.", "content": "Isatin has been found to inhibit rat kidney alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1). The inhibition is dependent on isatin concentration and is of un-competitive type. The hydrolysis of disodium phenyl phosphate by the enzyme at different temperatures (17--37 degrees C) obeys the Arrhenius equation. Energy of activation in the absence and presence of isatin has been found to be 9.84 and 10.24 kCal/mol. The hyperbolic profile of isatin inhibition; the lowering of both Km and Vmax in the presence of isatin, and, small changes in enthalpy, free energy and entropy in the presence of isatin suggest a non-allosteric un-competitive inhibition of the enzyme.", "contents": "Isatin-enzyme interactions. VII. Mechanism of inhibition of rat kidney alkaline phosphatase. Isatin has been found to inhibit rat kidney alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1). The inhibition is dependent on isatin concentration and is of un-competitive type. The hydrolysis of disodium phenyl phosphate by the enzyme at different temperatures (17--37 degrees C) obeys the Arrhenius equation. Energy of activation in the absence and presence of isatin has been found to be 9.84 and 10.24 kCal/mol. The hyperbolic profile of isatin inhibition; the lowering of both Km and Vmax in the presence of isatin, and, small changes in enthalpy, free energy and entropy in the presence of isatin suggest a non-allosteric un-competitive inhibition of the enzyme.", "PMID": 436809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3296", "title": "Changes in pyruvate kinase isozymes of rat small intestine during development and the synergistic effect on them of thyroid and glucocorticoid hormones.", "content": "Pyruvate kinase isozymes in rat small intestine changed markedly during the postnatal period. The activities of type M2 subunits rapidly increased before weaning, while those of type L subunits decreased slightly. The administration of hydrocortisone induced normal changes prematurely, whereas the administration of thyroxine increased their extent. On simultaneous administration, the two hormones had synergistic effects.", "contents": "Changes in pyruvate kinase isozymes of rat small intestine during development and the synergistic effect on them of thyroid and glucocorticoid hormones. Pyruvate kinase isozymes in rat small intestine changed markedly during the postnatal period. The activities of type M2 subunits rapidly increased before weaning, while those of type L subunits decreased slightly. The administration of hydrocortisone induced normal changes prematurely, whereas the administration of thyroxine increased their extent. On simultaneous administration, the two hormones had synergistic effects.", "PMID": 436810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3297", "title": "Studies on the mechanism of the rate-enhancing effect of heparin on the thrombin-antithrombin III reaction.", "content": "The rate of the reaction between thrombin and antithrombin III is greatly increased in the presence of heparin. Several mechanisms for this effect are possible. To study the problems commercial heparin was fractionated into one fraction of high anticogulant activity and one of low anticoagulant activity by affinity chromatography on matrix-bound antithrombin III. The strength of the binding of the two heparin fractions to antithrombin III and thrombin, respectively, was determined by a crossed immunoelectrophoresis technique. As was to be expected, the high activity fraction was strongly bound to antithrombin III while the low activity fraction was weakly bound. In contrast, thrombin showed equal binding affinity for both heparin fractions. The ability of the two heparin fractions to catalyse the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III was determined and was found to be much greater for the high activity heparin fraction. A mechanism for the reaction between thrombin and antithrombin III in the presence of small amounts of heparin is suggested, whereby antithrombin III first binds heparin and this complex then inhibits thrombin by interaction with both the bound heparin and the antithrombin III.", "contents": "Studies on the mechanism of the rate-enhancing effect of heparin on the thrombin-antithrombin III reaction. The rate of the reaction between thrombin and antithrombin III is greatly increased in the presence of heparin. Several mechanisms for this effect are possible. To study the problems commercial heparin was fractionated into one fraction of high anticogulant activity and one of low anticoagulant activity by affinity chromatography on matrix-bound antithrombin III. The strength of the binding of the two heparin fractions to antithrombin III and thrombin, respectively, was determined by a crossed immunoelectrophoresis technique. As was to be expected, the high activity fraction was strongly bound to antithrombin III while the low activity fraction was weakly bound. In contrast, thrombin showed equal binding affinity for both heparin fractions. The ability of the two heparin fractions to catalyse the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III was determined and was found to be much greater for the high activity heparin fraction. A mechanism for the reaction between thrombin and antithrombin III in the presence of small amounts of heparin is suggested, whereby antithrombin III first binds heparin and this complex then inhibits thrombin by interaction with both the bound heparin and the antithrombin III.", "PMID": 436823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3298", "title": "Phase behaviour of cord factor and related bacterial glycolipid toxins. A monolayer study.", "content": "C-6 esters of methyl alpha-D-glucoside and C-6, C-6' 'diesters of alpha, alpha'-D-trehalose with C18 and C32 threo and erythro mycolic acids (from chemical source) and of C80-erythro-mycolic acid (from natural source) have been synthesized. Esters of a C32 deoxy analogue were prepared as well. Throughout a monolayer study at the air-water interface, these glycolipids are shown to form well organized phases in which the two hydrocarbon chains of mycoloyl residues must be in interaction. Compression isotherms of C32 esters suggested a transition between liquid-expanded and liquid-condensed states. Latent heats Qc and entropy changes delta S associated with these phase transitions as well as the critical temperature at which they occur have been measured. Within the monolayer, the molecular packing of these glycolipids depends on the presence of the hydroxyl group of mycoloyl residues and on its stereochemistry. In particular intermolecular hydrogen bonds between these groups are postulated in the case of the bis(C32-erythro-mycoloyl)-trehalose. On the other hand, short chain C18 esters form fluid phases (t greater than 10 degrees C) whereas very long chain C80 mycoloyl esters of trehalose exist in a condensed state (t = 20 degrees C). These glycolipids were found to interact strongly with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and egg yolk lecithins (3-sn-phosphatidylcholine). Their phase behaviours are discussed in connection with hypotheses concerning the way they can interact with mitochondrial membranes.", "contents": "Phase behaviour of cord factor and related bacterial glycolipid toxins. A monolayer study. C-6 esters of methyl alpha-D-glucoside and C-6, C-6' 'diesters of alpha, alpha'-D-trehalose with C18 and C32 threo and erythro mycolic acids (from chemical source) and of C80-erythro-mycolic acid (from natural source) have been synthesized. Esters of a C32 deoxy analogue were prepared as well. Throughout a monolayer study at the air-water interface, these glycolipids are shown to form well organized phases in which the two hydrocarbon chains of mycoloyl residues must be in interaction. Compression isotherms of C32 esters suggested a transition between liquid-expanded and liquid-condensed states. Latent heats Qc and entropy changes delta S associated with these phase transitions as well as the critical temperature at which they occur have been measured. Within the monolayer, the molecular packing of these glycolipids depends on the presence of the hydroxyl group of mycoloyl residues and on its stereochemistry. In particular intermolecular hydrogen bonds between these groups are postulated in the case of the bis(C32-erythro-mycoloyl)-trehalose. On the other hand, short chain C18 esters form fluid phases (t greater than 10 degrees C) whereas very long chain C80 mycoloyl esters of trehalose exist in a condensed state (t = 20 degrees C). These glycolipids were found to interact strongly with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and egg yolk lecithins (3-sn-phosphatidylcholine). Their phase behaviours are discussed in connection with hypotheses concerning the way they can interact with mitochondrial membranes.", "PMID": 436824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3299", "title": "Fluctuations in proline and other free amino acids during the mitotic cycle of the myxomycete Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "1. During synchronous growth of the acellular slime mould Physarum polycephalum the free amino pool had two maxima, one of 650 units [nmol/plasmodium dry weight (mg)] at metaphase and the other of 780 units in mid G2 with minima of 550 units before and after mitosis. 2. Proline formed 20--25% of the total pool with aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, valine, leucine, lysine and arginine making up 55% of the pool. 3. The fluctuation of proline during the mitotic cycle was quite different from that of the other amino acids and was transiently very low during telophase.", "contents": "Fluctuations in proline and other free amino acids during the mitotic cycle of the myxomycete Physarum polycephalum. 1. During synchronous growth of the acellular slime mould Physarum polycephalum the free amino pool had two maxima, one of 650 units [nmol/plasmodium dry weight (mg)] at metaphase and the other of 780 units in mid G2 with minima of 550 units before and after mitosis. 2. Proline formed 20--25% of the total pool with aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, valine, leucine, lysine and arginine making up 55% of the pool. 3. The fluctuation of proline during the mitotic cycle was quite different from that of the other amino acids and was transiently very low during telophase.", "PMID": 436826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3300", "title": "Purification and characterization of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxyase from pig kidney.", "content": "A procedure for 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase from pig kkdney purification is described in detail. The preparation has no detectable impurity on electrophoresis and on ultracentrifugation and authors. However two significant differences are observed: a different stimulation of activity by added pyridoxal 5'-phosphate and a nearly complete decarboxylation of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine in absence of added coenzyme. Absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism properties of the coenzyme-apoenzyme interaction are also described. The results are consistent with the existence of at least four coenzyme-apoenzyme complexes, three of them active.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxyase from pig kidney. A procedure for 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase from pig kkdney purification is described in detail. The preparation has no detectable impurity on electrophoresis and on ultracentrifugation and authors. However two significant differences are observed: a different stimulation of activity by added pyridoxal 5'-phosphate and a nearly complete decarboxylation of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine in absence of added coenzyme. Absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism properties of the coenzyme-apoenzyme interaction are also described. The results are consistent with the existence of at least four coenzyme-apoenzyme complexes, three of them active.", "PMID": 436828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3301", "title": "The polysomal proteins of L cells. Discrimination between the structural ribosomal proteins, the exchangeable ribosomal proteins and the non-ribosomal proteins by two-dimensional dodecylsulfate electrophoresis and autoradiography.", "content": "Three groups of proteins can be clearly discriminated in the total protein of L cell polysomes by selective labelling in the presence of low doses of actinomycin D and two-dimensional polyacrylamide/dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis followed by autoradiography: (a) structural ribosomal proteins which are not labelled in the presence of actinomycin D and form stained non-radioactive spot in gels; (b) exchangeable ribosomal proteins which are labelled in the presence of actinomycin D and stained radioactive spots; (c) non-ribosomal proteins which are detectable only by autoradiography of gels. The large and small subunits of L cell ribosomes contain respectively 45 and 34 ribosomal proteins with molecular weights less than or equal to 50 000; seven of the large subunit proteins and nine of the small subunit proteins are exchangeable. Most of the non-ribosomal proteins migrate in the region of the related to the separation of the ribosomal proteins of mammalian cells and the possible significance of the presence of non-ribosomal proteins in polysomes are discussed.", "contents": "The polysomal proteins of L cells. Discrimination between the structural ribosomal proteins, the exchangeable ribosomal proteins and the non-ribosomal proteins by two-dimensional dodecylsulfate electrophoresis and autoradiography. Three groups of proteins can be clearly discriminated in the total protein of L cell polysomes by selective labelling in the presence of low doses of actinomycin D and two-dimensional polyacrylamide/dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis followed by autoradiography: (a) structural ribosomal proteins which are not labelled in the presence of actinomycin D and form stained non-radioactive spot in gels; (b) exchangeable ribosomal proteins which are labelled in the presence of actinomycin D and stained radioactive spots; (c) non-ribosomal proteins which are detectable only by autoradiography of gels. The large and small subunits of L cell ribosomes contain respectively 45 and 34 ribosomal proteins with molecular weights less than or equal to 50 000; seven of the large subunit proteins and nine of the small subunit proteins are exchangeable. Most of the non-ribosomal proteins migrate in the region of the related to the separation of the ribosomal proteins of mammalian cells and the possible significance of the presence of non-ribosomal proteins in polysomes are discussed.", "PMID": 436829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3302", "title": "Crystal structure analysis of the tetragonal crystal form are preliminary molecular model of pig-heart citrate synthase.", "content": "The crystal structure of pig heart citrate synthase was analyzed at 0.35-nm resolution. Chain tracing was possible and an initial molecular model constructed. The dimensions of the dimer molecule (located on a crystallographic diad) are 7.5 x 6.0 x 9.0 nm. The chain folding is characterized by the predominance of helices and the absence of sheet structure. The electron density accounts for 355 residues per monomer, so that about 80 residues must be disordered in the crystal. The disordered segment in probably N-terminal. The ordered part consists of two closely associated domains, a large domain with 300 residues and a C-terminal domain of 55 residues consisting of 3(anti)parallel helices. The large domain is built from 12 helical segments, some of which are buried in the interior of the molecule. Inhibitor binding studies with citrate and CoA revealed citrate binding sites but showed no electron density for CoA. It is suggested that CoA binds to the disordered, flexible N-terminal domain. Experiments of limited proteolysis with trypsin showed that under conditions a segment of Mr 9000 is cleaved off selectively. The remaining 35 000-Mr part is dimeric.", "contents": "Crystal structure analysis of the tetragonal crystal form are preliminary molecular model of pig-heart citrate synthase. The crystal structure of pig heart citrate synthase was analyzed at 0.35-nm resolution. Chain tracing was possible and an initial molecular model constructed. The dimensions of the dimer molecule (located on a crystallographic diad) are 7.5 x 6.0 x 9.0 nm. The chain folding is characterized by the predominance of helices and the absence of sheet structure. The electron density accounts for 355 residues per monomer, so that about 80 residues must be disordered in the crystal. The disordered segment in probably N-terminal. The ordered part consists of two closely associated domains, a large domain with 300 residues and a C-terminal domain of 55 residues consisting of 3(anti)parallel helices. The large domain is built from 12 helical segments, some of which are buried in the interior of the molecule. Inhibitor binding studies with citrate and CoA revealed citrate binding sites but showed no electron density for CoA. It is suggested that CoA binds to the disordered, flexible N-terminal domain. Experiments of limited proteolysis with trypsin showed that under conditions a segment of Mr 9000 is cleaved off selectively. The remaining 35 000-Mr part is dimeric.", "PMID": 436830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3303", "title": "Identification of the amino acid residue modified in Bacillus stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase by the NAD+ analogue 4-(3-bromoacetylpyridinio)butyldiphosphoadenosine.", "content": "4-(3-Bromoacetylpyridinio)butyldiphosphoadenosine was synthesized with a [carbonyl-14C]acetyl label. The reactive coenzyme analogue inactivates alcohol dehydrogenase from Bacillus stearothermophilus by forming a covalent enzyme-coenzyme compound. The inactivation kinetics as well as the spectral properties of the modified enzyme after treatment with sodium hyposulphite suggest that the analogue is bound at the coenzyme binding site. B. stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase modified with 14C-labelled coenzyme analogue and subseqeuntly carboxymethylated with unlabelled iodoacetic acid was digested with trypsin. The radioactive peptide was isolated and sequenced in parallel with the corresponding peptide similarly isolated from unmodified enzyme that had instead been carboxymethylated with iodo[14C]acetic acid. Amino acid and sequence analysis show that Cys-38 of the B. stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase was modified by the reactive coenzyme analogue. This residue is homologous to Cys-43 in yeast alcohol dehydrogenase and Cys-46 in the horse liver enzyme but, unlike the latter two, Cys-38 is not reactive towards iodoacetate in the native bacterial enzyme.", "contents": "Identification of the amino acid residue modified in Bacillus stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase by the NAD+ analogue 4-(3-bromoacetylpyridinio)butyldiphosphoadenosine. 4-(3-Bromoacetylpyridinio)butyldiphosphoadenosine was synthesized with a [carbonyl-14C]acetyl label. The reactive coenzyme analogue inactivates alcohol dehydrogenase from Bacillus stearothermophilus by forming a covalent enzyme-coenzyme compound. The inactivation kinetics as well as the spectral properties of the modified enzyme after treatment with sodium hyposulphite suggest that the analogue is bound at the coenzyme binding site. B. stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase modified with 14C-labelled coenzyme analogue and subseqeuntly carboxymethylated with unlabelled iodoacetic acid was digested with trypsin. The radioactive peptide was isolated and sequenced in parallel with the corresponding peptide similarly isolated from unmodified enzyme that had instead been carboxymethylated with iodo[14C]acetic acid. Amino acid and sequence analysis show that Cys-38 of the B. stearothermophilus alcohol dehydrogenase was modified by the reactive coenzyme analogue. This residue is homologous to Cys-43 in yeast alcohol dehydrogenase and Cys-46 in the horse liver enzyme but, unlike the latter two, Cys-38 is not reactive towards iodoacetate in the native bacterial enzyme.", "PMID": 436831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3304", "title": "Purification and characterization of a chymotrypsin-like enzyme (protease-S) in thermally injured rat skin.", "content": "Protease-S was extracted from thermally injured rat skin, and partially purified by column chromatography using Sephadex G-50, CM-Sephadex (A-50), Sephadex G-75 gel filtration. The optimum pH of this enzyme was 8.6--8.8, and the molecular weight determined by Sephadex G-75 gel filtration was approximately 30 000. This enzyme is active on the N-acetyl-L-tyrosine ethyl ester, N-succinyl-L-phenylalanine-p-nitroanilide (of chymotrypsin substrate) but not N-tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester, N-benzoyl-L-arginine-p-nitroanilide. Also, protease-S was completely inhibited by diisopropylfluorophosphate (1 mM) or phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride (10 micrometer), and N-tosyl-L-phenylalanine chloromethylketone (1 mM). These results are very similar to those obtained with bovine chymotrypsin. But the enzyme is not identical with the chymotrypsin-like proteases in mast cells and leukocyte granules. When proteases-S was measured during the inflammatory reaction in vivo, maximal activity was found after 8 h, at the end of inflammation.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of a chymotrypsin-like enzyme (protease-S) in thermally injured rat skin. Protease-S was extracted from thermally injured rat skin, and partially purified by column chromatography using Sephadex G-50, CM-Sephadex (A-50), Sephadex G-75 gel filtration. The optimum pH of this enzyme was 8.6--8.8, and the molecular weight determined by Sephadex G-75 gel filtration was approximately 30 000. This enzyme is active on the N-acetyl-L-tyrosine ethyl ester, N-succinyl-L-phenylalanine-p-nitroanilide (of chymotrypsin substrate) but not N-tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester, N-benzoyl-L-arginine-p-nitroanilide. Also, protease-S was completely inhibited by diisopropylfluorophosphate (1 mM) or phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride (10 micrometer), and N-tosyl-L-phenylalanine chloromethylketone (1 mM). These results are very similar to those obtained with bovine chymotrypsin. But the enzyme is not identical with the chymotrypsin-like proteases in mast cells and leukocyte granules. When proteases-S was measured during the inflammatory reaction in vivo, maximal activity was found after 8 h, at the end of inflammation.", "PMID": 436832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3305", "title": "The complete amino-acid sequence of histone H2B from the mollusc Patella granatina.", "content": "1. From the marine mollusc, Patella granatina, a histone has been isolated. Its primary structure has been established and it has been designated histone H2Bpatella. It consists of a polypeptide chain of 121 amino acids. 2. In the carboxy-terminal two thirds of the molecule there is a highly degree of sequence homology to the corresponding region in calf histone H2B with identical residues in 95% of the positions. 3. In the N-terminal 22 amino acids histone H2Bpatella differs considerably from the mammalian histone H2B and it is shorter by four residues.", "contents": "The complete amino-acid sequence of histone H2B from the mollusc Patella granatina. 1. From the marine mollusc, Patella granatina, a histone has been isolated. Its primary structure has been established and it has been designated histone H2Bpatella. It consists of a polypeptide chain of 121 amino acids. 2. In the carboxy-terminal two thirds of the molecule there is a highly degree of sequence homology to the corresponding region in calf histone H2B with identical residues in 95% of the positions. 3. In the N-terminal 22 amino acids histone H2Bpatella differs considerably from the mammalian histone H2B and it is shorter by four residues.", "PMID": 436833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3306", "title": "The effect of Mg2+ on some properties of nucleotide-free elongation factor Tu from Bacillus stearothermophilus.", "content": "The nucleotide-free elongation factor from Bacillus stearothermophilus provides a means to study the effect of Mg2+ ions on various reactions of the protein. The binding of GDP to the protein is stimulated by Mg2+. From comparative studies with other metal ions, particularly Mn2+, it appears that this stimulation is due to the formation of a metal - GDP complex which is bound to the protein. Protection against proteolysis by trypsin is afforded by both Mg2+ and Mg - GDP, but not by GDP alone. The rate of substitution of the sulphydryl group associated with aminoacyl-tRNA binding, either 5,5'-dithio-bis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) or N-ethylmaleimide is reduced in the presence of Mg2+ - All these observations show that Mg2+ not only is involved in GDP binding but also has a direct effect on the tertiary structure of the protein.", "contents": "The effect of Mg2+ on some properties of nucleotide-free elongation factor Tu from Bacillus stearothermophilus. The nucleotide-free elongation factor from Bacillus stearothermophilus provides a means to study the effect of Mg2+ ions on various reactions of the protein. The binding of GDP to the protein is stimulated by Mg2+. From comparative studies with other metal ions, particularly Mn2+, it appears that this stimulation is due to the formation of a metal - GDP complex which is bound to the protein. Protection against proteolysis by trypsin is afforded by both Mg2+ and Mg - GDP, but not by GDP alone. The rate of substitution of the sulphydryl group associated with aminoacyl-tRNA binding, either 5,5'-dithio-bis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) or N-ethylmaleimide is reduced in the presence of Mg2+ - All these observations show that Mg2+ not only is involved in GDP binding but also has a direct effect on the tertiary structure of the protein.", "PMID": 436834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3307", "title": "Property and activity of mycoloyl esters of methyl glucoside and trehalose. Effect on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation related to organization of suspensions and to acyl-chain structures.", "content": "Methyl alpha-D-glucoside and alpha, alpha'-D-trehalose acylated on their primary hydroxyl group by alpha-alkyl-beta-hydroxy acids (mycolic acids) with 18, 32 and more than 80 carbon atoms were studied. These cord factors and analogues when dispersed in water gave hydrated and organized phases which bore resemblances and differences to phospholipid liposomes. Phase transition temperature was determined by fluorescence for the C32 derivatives and by differential scanning calorimetry for the C80 derivatives. A narrow temperature interval between the gel and the fluid states was observed, indicating that this transition was a strongly cooperative phenomenon. The activity on mitochondria of these diacyl trehaloses was studied with succinate as substrate. The fluid suspensions were more active than the rigid ones. There was no influence of the relative configuration of the mycoloyl residue. Acyl chains with 18, 32 and more than 80 carbon atoms had rather similar activities on phosphorylation, but differences appeared when considering effects on respiration. Electron microscopy suggested that cord factor weakened the peripheral part of the inner membrane, but cristae looked unchanged. These observations, together with the results of our previous monolayer studies of these glycolipids, led us to propose a model for interaction of cord factor with mitochondria.", "contents": "Property and activity of mycoloyl esters of methyl glucoside and trehalose. Effect on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation related to organization of suspensions and to acyl-chain structures. Methyl alpha-D-glucoside and alpha, alpha'-D-trehalose acylated on their primary hydroxyl group by alpha-alkyl-beta-hydroxy acids (mycolic acids) with 18, 32 and more than 80 carbon atoms were studied. These cord factors and analogues when dispersed in water gave hydrated and organized phases which bore resemblances and differences to phospholipid liposomes. Phase transition temperature was determined by fluorescence for the C32 derivatives and by differential scanning calorimetry for the C80 derivatives. A narrow temperature interval between the gel and the fluid states was observed, indicating that this transition was a strongly cooperative phenomenon. The activity on mitochondria of these diacyl trehaloses was studied with succinate as substrate. The fluid suspensions were more active than the rigid ones. There was no influence of the relative configuration of the mycoloyl residue. Acyl chains with 18, 32 and more than 80 carbon atoms had rather similar activities on phosphorylation, but differences appeared when considering effects on respiration. Electron microscopy suggested that cord factor weakened the peripheral part of the inner membrane, but cristae looked unchanged. These observations, together with the results of our previous monolayer studies of these glycolipids, led us to propose a model for interaction of cord factor with mitochondria.", "PMID": 436835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3308", "title": "Distribution of inverted repeat sequences in nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "Inverted repeat sequences, capable of forming stable intra-chain foldback duplexes, are shown using electron microscopy to be located in over 90% of fragments of nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum. A statistical treatment of the data indicates that, on average, foldback sequence foci are spaced every 7,000 nucleotides and that they are distributed uniformly amongst the DNA chains. The majority of inverted repeat sequences give rise to the simple types of foldback structure observed in DNA from other eukaryotic species, but a significant proportion of the DNA fragments also contain novel foldback structures with a more complex appearance, referred to as 'bubbled' hairpins. The latter structures appear to be formed by the annealing of several distinct segments of homologous inverted repeat sequence, each separated by interspersed non-foldback sequences of variable sizes up to 15,000 nucleotides in length. The size, both of the foldback duplexes and of the intervening single-chain segments of DNA, are not random. Instead, they appear to form a regular, arithmetic series of lengths. These observations suggest that the different segments of Physarum DNA from which foldback structures are derived contain nucleotide sequences that share a highly ordered and unform pattern of structural organisation. These regular units of organisation in Physarum DNA in some cases extend over distances up to 50,000 nucleotides in length.", "contents": "Distribution of inverted repeat sequences in nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum. Inverted repeat sequences, capable of forming stable intra-chain foldback duplexes, are shown using electron microscopy to be located in over 90% of fragments of nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum. A statistical treatment of the data indicates that, on average, foldback sequence foci are spaced every 7,000 nucleotides and that they are distributed uniformly amongst the DNA chains. The majority of inverted repeat sequences give rise to the simple types of foldback structure observed in DNA from other eukaryotic species, but a significant proportion of the DNA fragments also contain novel foldback structures with a more complex appearance, referred to as 'bubbled' hairpins. The latter structures appear to be formed by the annealing of several distinct segments of homologous inverted repeat sequence, each separated by interspersed non-foldback sequences of variable sizes up to 15,000 nucleotides in length. The size, both of the foldback duplexes and of the intervening single-chain segments of DNA, are not random. Instead, they appear to form a regular, arithmetic series of lengths. These observations suggest that the different segments of Physarum DNA from which foldback structures are derived contain nucleotide sequences that share a highly ordered and unform pattern of structural organisation. These regular units of organisation in Physarum DNA in some cases extend over distances up to 50,000 nucleotides in length.", "PMID": 436838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3309", "title": "Lipid composition of human malignant melanoma tumors at various levels of malignant growth.", "content": "The lipid pattern of thirteen human melanoma tumors from various tissues were investigated. In seven of the tumors, an estimate was given about the proportion of malignant melanocytes to the total cell population, and a reverse correlation was determined between the proportion of malignant cells in these tumors and their neutral lipid content. The phospholipids did not show any modification, nor did the cholesterol in the cancerous tissues. The ganglioside pattern was found to be similar in all analyzed samples, with GM3, GM2 and GD3 as major components, although no correlation was found between the malignant level and the ganglioside content of the tumors.", "contents": "Lipid composition of human malignant melanoma tumors at various levels of malignant growth. The lipid pattern of thirteen human melanoma tumors from various tissues were investigated. In seven of the tumors, an estimate was given about the proportion of malignant melanocytes to the total cell population, and a reverse correlation was determined between the proportion of malignant cells in these tumors and their neutral lipid content. The phospholipids did not show any modification, nor did the cholesterol in the cancerous tissues. The ganglioside pattern was found to be similar in all analyzed samples, with GM3, GM2 and GD3 as major components, although no correlation was found between the malignant level and the ganglioside content of the tumors.", "PMID": 436839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3310", "title": "Crayfish carboxypeptidase. Affinity chromatography, characterization and amino-terminal sequence.", "content": "In an effort to trace the evolutionary history of the pancreatic metalloexopeptidases, carboxypeptidase has been isolated from the cardia of the crayfish Astacus fluviatilis. The isolation procedure included affinity chromatography on a column of potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor covalently linked to Sepharose. Approximately 25 mg of pure enzyme can be obtained by the present procedure from 50 ml of cardia fluid. The pure enzyme resembles bovine carboxypeptidase B in specificity and is inhibited both by 3-phenyllactate and by 6-aminohexanoate. The pH optimum of activity is about pH 6.5, and the isoelectric point,pH 4.0. Inhibition by typical metal chelating agents (i.e. ethylenediamine tetraacetate and 1,10-phenanthroline) and neutron activation analysis indicate that, like the mammalian enzyme, crayfish carboxypepetidase is a zinc metalloenzyme. The purified enzyme migrates as a single band in cellulose acetate, disc gel and sodium dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis. The amino acid composition is similar to that of pancreatic carboxypeptidases except for a higher content of acidic amino acid residues. The amino acid sequence of the first 19 amino-terminal residues reveals significant homology to that of pancreatic carboxypeptidases A and B.", "contents": "Crayfish carboxypeptidase. Affinity chromatography, characterization and amino-terminal sequence. In an effort to trace the evolutionary history of the pancreatic metalloexopeptidases, carboxypeptidase has been isolated from the cardia of the crayfish Astacus fluviatilis. The isolation procedure included affinity chromatography on a column of potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor covalently linked to Sepharose. Approximately 25 mg of pure enzyme can be obtained by the present procedure from 50 ml of cardia fluid. The pure enzyme resembles bovine carboxypeptidase B in specificity and is inhibited both by 3-phenyllactate and by 6-aminohexanoate. The pH optimum of activity is about pH 6.5, and the isoelectric point,pH 4.0. Inhibition by typical metal chelating agents (i.e. ethylenediamine tetraacetate and 1,10-phenanthroline) and neutron activation analysis indicate that, like the mammalian enzyme, crayfish carboxypepetidase is a zinc metalloenzyme. The purified enzyme migrates as a single band in cellulose acetate, disc gel and sodium dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis. The amino acid composition is similar to that of pancreatic carboxypeptidases except for a higher content of acidic amino acid residues. The amino acid sequence of the first 19 amino-terminal residues reveals significant homology to that of pancreatic carboxypeptidases A and B.", "PMID": 436840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3311", "title": "Messenger RNA competition in living Xenopus oocytes.", "content": "When calf lens crystallin mRNA and rabbit globin mRNA are competing for factors limiting protein synthesis in living Xenopus oocytes, no mRNA species is preferentially selected for translation. Differences in the intrinsic translational efficiency of the mRNA species exist, but the relative efficiencies are the same at high and low mRNA concentrations. mRNAs already being translated, in particular endogenous oocyte mRNAs, are less sensitive to competitive inhibition by injected mRNAs. As injected mRNAs gradually become incorporated into the protein-synthesizing machinery of the oocyte, they acquire the same status as the oocyte's own active mRNAs. Exogenous mRNAs this become endogenous mRNAs. These results, together with previous estmates of the translational efficiency of injected heterologous mRNA species, are compatible with the assumption that a large proportion of the endogenous mRNAs is not competing for the translational apparatus of the oocyte and, therefore, probably is present in the temporarily inactivated form.", "contents": "Messenger RNA competition in living Xenopus oocytes. When calf lens crystallin mRNA and rabbit globin mRNA are competing for factors limiting protein synthesis in living Xenopus oocytes, no mRNA species is preferentially selected for translation. Differences in the intrinsic translational efficiency of the mRNA species exist, but the relative efficiencies are the same at high and low mRNA concentrations. mRNAs already being translated, in particular endogenous oocyte mRNAs, are less sensitive to competitive inhibition by injected mRNAs. As injected mRNAs gradually become incorporated into the protein-synthesizing machinery of the oocyte, they acquire the same status as the oocyte's own active mRNAs. Exogenous mRNAs this become endogenous mRNAs. These results, together with previous estmates of the translational efficiency of injected heterologous mRNA species, are compatible with the assumption that a large proportion of the endogenous mRNAs is not competing for the translational apparatus of the oocyte and, therefore, probably is present in the temporarily inactivated form.", "PMID": 436841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3312", "title": "Immunological cross-reactivity between electric-eel acetylcholinesterase and rat-tail-tendon collagen.", "content": "Immunological cross-reactivity between acetylcholinesterase from the electric organ of the electric eel and rat tail tendon collagen was examined both on the cellular and humoral levels. 1. Guinea pigs immunized with rat tail tendon collagen displayed a strong delayed-type skin reaction when tested with the elongated acetylcholinesterase preparation (i.e. 14-S + 18-S molecular forms). However, when the glubular 11-S enzyme was tested, almost no cross-reactivity was obtained. Similarly, guinea pigs immunized with 14-S + 18-S preparation exhibited skin sensitization to rat tail tendon collagen. 2. Using a radioimmunoassay, it was observed that 125I-labeled 14-S + 18-S acetylcholinesterase binds efficiently to rabbit antiserum elicited against rat tail tendon collagen, whereas 125I-labeled 11-S enzyme does not bind at all to this antiserum. Similar results were obtained by passive hemagglutination assay. The experiments suggest that 14-S + 18-S acetylcholinesterase, but not 11-S enzyme, which is devoid of the tail structure, has antigenic determinants in common with collagen from rat tail tendon.", "contents": "Immunological cross-reactivity between electric-eel acetylcholinesterase and rat-tail-tendon collagen. Immunological cross-reactivity between acetylcholinesterase from the electric organ of the electric eel and rat tail tendon collagen was examined both on the cellular and humoral levels. 1. Guinea pigs immunized with rat tail tendon collagen displayed a strong delayed-type skin reaction when tested with the elongated acetylcholinesterase preparation (i.e. 14-S + 18-S molecular forms). However, when the glubular 11-S enzyme was tested, almost no cross-reactivity was obtained. Similarly, guinea pigs immunized with 14-S + 18-S preparation exhibited skin sensitization to rat tail tendon collagen. 2. Using a radioimmunoassay, it was observed that 125I-labeled 14-S + 18-S acetylcholinesterase binds efficiently to rabbit antiserum elicited against rat tail tendon collagen, whereas 125I-labeled 11-S enzyme does not bind at all to this antiserum. Similar results were obtained by passive hemagglutination assay. The experiments suggest that 14-S + 18-S acetylcholinesterase, but not 11-S enzyme, which is devoid of the tail structure, has antigenic determinants in common with collagen from rat tail tendon.", "PMID": 436842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3313", "title": "Fast kinetic studies on the allosteric interactions between acetylcholine receptor and local anesthetic binding sites.", "content": "Preincubation of receptor-rich membrane fragments from Torpedo marmorata with tertiary amine local anesthetics and several toxins such as histrionicotoxin, crotoxin and cerulotoxin, modifies the amplitude and time course of the relaxation processes monitored upon rapid mixing of the membrane fragments with the fluorescent agonist, Dns-C6-Cho. In particular, the amplitude of the rapid relaxation process, which is proportional to the fraction of acetylcholine receptor sites in a high-affinity state, increases; accordingly, the rate constant of the 'slow' and 'intermediate' relaxation processes also increases up to ten times (except with histrionicotoxin) whereas in a higher range of local anesthetic concentrations the rate constant of the 'rapid' relaxation process decreases. The data are accounted for by a two-state model of the acetylcholine regulator, assuming distinct binding sites for cholinergic agonists and local anesthetics and allosteric interactions between these two classes of sites; local anesthetics stabilize the regulator in a high-affinity state for agonists even in the absence of agonist, and modify the rate constants for th interconversions between the low-affinity and high-affinity states. The model accounts for the 'slow' fluorescence increase monitored upon addition of local anesthetics to a suspension of receptor-rich membranes supplemented with trace amounts of Dns-C6-Cho. The effect of local anesthetics on the apparent rate constant of the 'rapid' relaxation process can be accounted for on the basis of an additional low-affinity binding of local anesthetics to the acetylcholine receptor site. Finally the increase of the apparent rate constant of the 'intermediate' relaxation process can be simply accounted for by assuming the existence of a third state, corresponding to the 'active' state, to which local anesthetics bind and block ionic transport.", "contents": "Fast kinetic studies on the allosteric interactions between acetylcholine receptor and local anesthetic binding sites. Preincubation of receptor-rich membrane fragments from Torpedo marmorata with tertiary amine local anesthetics and several toxins such as histrionicotoxin, crotoxin and cerulotoxin, modifies the amplitude and time course of the relaxation processes monitored upon rapid mixing of the membrane fragments with the fluorescent agonist, Dns-C6-Cho. In particular, the amplitude of the rapid relaxation process, which is proportional to the fraction of acetylcholine receptor sites in a high-affinity state, increases; accordingly, the rate constant of the 'slow' and 'intermediate' relaxation processes also increases up to ten times (except with histrionicotoxin) whereas in a higher range of local anesthetic concentrations the rate constant of the 'rapid' relaxation process decreases. The data are accounted for by a two-state model of the acetylcholine regulator, assuming distinct binding sites for cholinergic agonists and local anesthetics and allosteric interactions between these two classes of sites; local anesthetics stabilize the regulator in a high-affinity state for agonists even in the absence of agonist, and modify the rate constants for th interconversions between the low-affinity and high-affinity states. The model accounts for the 'slow' fluorescence increase monitored upon addition of local anesthetics to a suspension of receptor-rich membranes supplemented with trace amounts of Dns-C6-Cho. The effect of local anesthetics on the apparent rate constant of the 'rapid' relaxation process can be accounted for on the basis of an additional low-affinity binding of local anesthetics to the acetylcholine receptor site. Finally the increase of the apparent rate constant of the 'intermediate' relaxation process can be simply accounted for by assuming the existence of a third state, corresponding to the 'active' state, to which local anesthetics bind and block ionic transport.", "PMID": 436844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3314", "title": "Ribosome-protected fragments from sindbis 42-S and 26-S RNAs.", "content": "Sindbis virus 42-S and 26-S RNAs labeled with 32P were purified from infected chick embryo fibroblasts. The RNA's were incubated in the presence of a wheat germ cell-free translating system under conditions that yielded 40-S and 80-S initiation complexes. After digestion with RNase A, ribosome-protected fragments were isolated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and compared with respect to number, size, cap content and oligonucleotide composition. The two RNA species yielded several fragments of chain length about 35--40 nucleotides from 80S complexes and up to 60--65 nucleotides from 40-S complexes. The 5'-terminal capped sequence, m7 GpppA-U-G that is present in both Sindbis virus RNA's, was not retained in any of the ribosome-protected fragments. Fingerprint analyses indicated that the fragments derived from 40S and 80-S initiation complexes of each species of RNA were overlapping, but the fragments from 42-S and 26-S RNAs were unrelated. The complexity of the fingerprints were consistent with protection of a single, different initiation site in each Sindbis virus RNA.", "contents": "Ribosome-protected fragments from sindbis 42-S and 26-S RNAs. Sindbis virus 42-S and 26-S RNAs labeled with 32P were purified from infected chick embryo fibroblasts. The RNA's were incubated in the presence of a wheat germ cell-free translating system under conditions that yielded 40-S and 80-S initiation complexes. After digestion with RNase A, ribosome-protected fragments were isolated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and compared with respect to number, size, cap content and oligonucleotide composition. The two RNA species yielded several fragments of chain length about 35--40 nucleotides from 80S complexes and up to 60--65 nucleotides from 40-S complexes. The 5'-terminal capped sequence, m7 GpppA-U-G that is present in both Sindbis virus RNA's, was not retained in any of the ribosome-protected fragments. Fingerprint analyses indicated that the fragments derived from 40S and 80-S initiation complexes of each species of RNA were overlapping, but the fragments from 42-S and 26-S RNAs were unrelated. The complexity of the fingerprints were consistent with protection of a single, different initiation site in each Sindbis virus RNA.", "PMID": 436845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3315", "title": "Kinetic estimation of the base sequence complexity of poly(A)-containing mRNA in Ehrlich-ascites-tumor cells and its abundance in nuclear RNA.", "content": "Poly(A)-containing messenger RNA was isolated from polysomes of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, and analyzed for sequence complexity by hybridization to its complementary DNA. The results indicate the presence of about 27,000 diverse mRNA species in mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. Total nuclear RNA was also hybridized to cDNA transcribed from polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA up to an rot of 3,000 M . s. It was found that all classes of the polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA sequences were also present in the nucleus, although the distribution varied. About 2% of the total nuclear RNA sequences were expressed as total polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA. We also report that the total percentage of the haploid mouse genome transcribed in Ehrlich cells is significantly higher than that found in other mouse cells previously examined for poly(A)-containing mRNA sequence complexity.", "contents": "Kinetic estimation of the base sequence complexity of poly(A)-containing mRNA in Ehrlich-ascites-tumor cells and its abundance in nuclear RNA. Poly(A)-containing messenger RNA was isolated from polysomes of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, and analyzed for sequence complexity by hybridization to its complementary DNA. The results indicate the presence of about 27,000 diverse mRNA species in mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. Total nuclear RNA was also hybridized to cDNA transcribed from polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA up to an rot of 3,000 M . s. It was found that all classes of the polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA sequences were also present in the nucleus, although the distribution varied. About 2% of the total nuclear RNA sequences were expressed as total polysomal poly(A)-containing mRNA. We also report that the total percentage of the haploid mouse genome transcribed in Ehrlich cells is significantly higher than that found in other mouse cells previously examined for poly(A)-containing mRNA sequence complexity.", "PMID": 436846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3316", "title": "Immunochemical studies of partially hydrolyzed lipopolysaccharide from Fusobacterium nucleatum Fev1.", "content": "Fusobacterium nucleatum Fev1 lipopolysaccharide was split by hydrolysis with 1% acetic acid into acid-soluble polysaccharide and lipid A. Gel filtration of the polysaccharide on Bio-Gel P-60 gave a high-molecular-weight fraction eluted with the void volume, and a fraction eluted at 2.4 x Vo. The high-molecular-weight fraction contained L-glycero-D-manno-heptose in relatively large amounts, glucose, glucosamine, an unknown amino compound and small amounts of (or no) D-glycero-D-manno-heptose. Phosphorus and 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonic acid were not detected. The other fraction contained L- and D-glycero-D-manno-heptose, glucose, glucosamine, 3-deoxy-d-manno-octulosonic acid and phosphorus. Further fractionation experiments and serological investigations indicated that the high-molecular-weight fraction carried the O-antigenic side chains, whereas the material eluted from Bio-Gel P-60 at 2.4 x Vo represented the core oligosaccharide.", "contents": "Immunochemical studies of partially hydrolyzed lipopolysaccharide from Fusobacterium nucleatum Fev1. Fusobacterium nucleatum Fev1 lipopolysaccharide was split by hydrolysis with 1% acetic acid into acid-soluble polysaccharide and lipid A. Gel filtration of the polysaccharide on Bio-Gel P-60 gave a high-molecular-weight fraction eluted with the void volume, and a fraction eluted at 2.4 x Vo. The high-molecular-weight fraction contained L-glycero-D-manno-heptose in relatively large amounts, glucose, glucosamine, an unknown amino compound and small amounts of (or no) D-glycero-D-manno-heptose. Phosphorus and 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonic acid were not detected. The other fraction contained L- and D-glycero-D-manno-heptose, glucose, glucosamine, 3-deoxy-d-manno-octulosonic acid and phosphorus. Further fractionation experiments and serological investigations indicated that the high-molecular-weight fraction carried the O-antigenic side chains, whereas the material eluted from Bio-Gel P-60 at 2.4 x Vo represented the core oligosaccharide.", "PMID": 436847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3317", "title": "Specificity of diacylglycerol acyltransferase from bovine mammary gland, liver and adipose tissue towards acyl-CoA esters.", "content": "1. Microsomal diacylglycerol acyltransferase from bovine lactating mammary gland, liver and adipose tissue was capable of acylating microsomal-bound 1,2-dipalmitolyglycerol with acyl-CoA of chain length C4--C18. 2. The activity of the liver and adipose enzymes towards butyryl-CoA and hexanoyl-CoA relative to longer-chain acyl-CoA was similar to that of the mammary enzyme. The Km and V values of the three enzymes with butyryl-CoA and hexanoyl-CoA were similar, except for the V values of the adipose enzyme which were higher. 3. Microsomal diacylglycerol acyltransferase from mammary gland and liver of non-ruminants was also capable of utilizing butyryl-CoA. 4. These results indicate that the unique presence of short-chain acids in ruminant milk triacylglycerols is not caused by differences in specificity between the diacylglycerol acyltransferase from ruminant mammary and other tissues.", "contents": "Specificity of diacylglycerol acyltransferase from bovine mammary gland, liver and adipose tissue towards acyl-CoA esters. 1. Microsomal diacylglycerol acyltransferase from bovine lactating mammary gland, liver and adipose tissue was capable of acylating microsomal-bound 1,2-dipalmitolyglycerol with acyl-CoA of chain length C4--C18. 2. The activity of the liver and adipose enzymes towards butyryl-CoA and hexanoyl-CoA relative to longer-chain acyl-CoA was similar to that of the mammary enzyme. The Km and V values of the three enzymes with butyryl-CoA and hexanoyl-CoA were similar, except for the V values of the adipose enzyme which were higher. 3. Microsomal diacylglycerol acyltransferase from mammary gland and liver of non-ruminants was also capable of utilizing butyryl-CoA. 4. These results indicate that the unique presence of short-chain acids in ruminant milk triacylglycerols is not caused by differences in specificity between the diacylglycerol acyltransferase from ruminant mammary and other tissues.", "PMID": 436848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3318", "title": "A case of neuraminidase deficiency associated with a partial beta-galactosidase defect. Clinical, biochemical and radiological studies.", "content": "Neuraminidase deficiency towards fetuin, 2 leads to 3 sialyllactose and 2 leads to 6 sialyllactose was found in cultured skin fibroblasts from a 10-year-old Japanese girl who exhibits craniofacial dysmorphism, a short neck, vertebral and pelvic deformities and macular cherry-red spots. Neuraminidase deficiency in this case seems the primary enzyme defect because the enzyme activity of her parents was intermediate. In addition, beta-galactosidase in leukocytes and cultured skin fibroblasts from the patient was found to be severely deficient, but could be detected in serum and urine. In the parents, beta-galactosidase activity was normal. There were moderately increased levels of urinary sialic acid-rich oligosaccharides and glycopeptides in the patient. The clinical and biochemical observations suggest that this case is very close to mucolipidosis I.", "contents": "A case of neuraminidase deficiency associated with a partial beta-galactosidase defect. Clinical, biochemical and radiological studies. Neuraminidase deficiency towards fetuin, 2 leads to 3 sialyllactose and 2 leads to 6 sialyllactose was found in cultured skin fibroblasts from a 10-year-old Japanese girl who exhibits craniofacial dysmorphism, a short neck, vertebral and pelvic deformities and macular cherry-red spots. Neuraminidase deficiency in this case seems the primary enzyme defect because the enzyme activity of her parents was intermediate. In addition, beta-galactosidase in leukocytes and cultured skin fibroblasts from the patient was found to be severely deficient, but could be detected in serum and urine. In the parents, beta-galactosidase activity was normal. There were moderately increased levels of urinary sialic acid-rich oligosaccharides and glycopeptides in the patient. The clinical and biochemical observations suggest that this case is very close to mucolipidosis I.", "PMID": 436849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3319", "title": "Evaluation of long term tobramycin therapy in patients with cystic fibrosis and advanced pulmonary disease.", "content": "To nine cystic fibrosis patients with chronic bronchopulmonary infection of severely damaged lungs invaded by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, eleven courses of prolonged tobramycin treatment (5 mg/kg/day) for four to 16 weeks were administered. Pulmonary symptoms improved and a better quality of life was achieved in all but one patient. Objective parameters (chest X-ray, pulmonary function tests) changed to a lesser extent. In only one patient was Pseudomonas eradicated from the sputum but reappeared after discontinuation of therapy. In the rest of the patients Pseudomonas was significantly suppressed or replaced by other pathogens. Four patients showed rises of antibody titres to Candida and two to Aspergillus fumigatus. No nephrotoxic side effects were observed, but vestibular function was reversibly impaired in one patient without corresponding clinical symptoms. No bacterial resistance to tobramycin was observed during therapy.", "contents": "Evaluation of long term tobramycin therapy in patients with cystic fibrosis and advanced pulmonary disease. To nine cystic fibrosis patients with chronic bronchopulmonary infection of severely damaged lungs invaded by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, eleven courses of prolonged tobramycin treatment (5 mg/kg/day) for four to 16 weeks were administered. Pulmonary symptoms improved and a better quality of life was achieved in all but one patient. Objective parameters (chest X-ray, pulmonary function tests) changed to a lesser extent. In only one patient was Pseudomonas eradicated from the sputum but reappeared after discontinuation of therapy. In the rest of the patients Pseudomonas was significantly suppressed or replaced by other pathogens. Four patients showed rises of antibody titres to Candida and two to Aspergillus fumigatus. No nephrotoxic side effects were observed, but vestibular function was reversibly impaired in one patient without corresponding clinical symptoms. No bacterial resistance to tobramycin was observed during therapy.", "PMID": 436850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3320", "title": "Comparison between clinical and radiological classification of infants with the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).", "content": "Clinical and radiological classifications of the severity of the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) were made in 55 infants. According to the clinical classification 17 infants belonged to the first class (mild RDS), 22 to the second (moderate RDS), and 16 to the third class (severe RDS). In the classification based on radiological findings the numbers of infants in classes 1, 2 and 3 were 18, 19 and 18 respectively. On the basis of both the clinical and radiological findings, 11 infants belonged to the mild RDS class, 11 to the moderate, and 12 to the severe RDS class. Thus, 34 infants had the same clinical and radiological classification. In 21 infants there were discrepancies between the clinical and the radiological classifications, but only one infant with the most severe radiological findings belonged to the mild RDS class and only one infant with mild radiological findings belonged to the worst RDS class.", "contents": "Comparison between clinical and radiological classification of infants with the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Clinical and radiological classifications of the severity of the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) were made in 55 infants. According to the clinical classification 17 infants belonged to the first class (mild RDS), 22 to the second (moderate RDS), and 16 to the third class (severe RDS). In the classification based on radiological findings the numbers of infants in classes 1, 2 and 3 were 18, 19 and 18 respectively. On the basis of both the clinical and radiological findings, 11 infants belonged to the mild RDS class, 11 to the moderate, and 12 to the severe RDS class. Thus, 34 infants had the same clinical and radiological classification. In 21 infants there were discrepancies between the clinical and the radiological classifications, but only one infant with the most severe radiological findings belonged to the mild RDS class and only one infant with mild radiological findings belonged to the worst RDS class.", "PMID": 436851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3321", "title": "Regulation of aldosterone secretion in dehydrated babies.", "content": "The factors controlling aldosterone secretion were measured in 12 patients with moderate to severe dehydration during the first year of life. Secondary hyperaldosteronism was present in all cases (mean plasma aldosterone concentration 414.6 ng/dl), as well as increased plasma cortisol levels (mean 49.7 microgram/dl). Plasma cortisol, an indirect parameter of stimulation of the adrenal cortex by ACTH, showed the highest correlation with plasma aldosterone (r = 0.82). Despite a mean elevation of 168 ng AT/ml/h the plasma renin concentration did not seem to play the dominant role in the regulation of aldosterone secretion in these infants. High serum sodium concentrations have a clearly inhibiting effect on aldosterone secretion as shown by the negative correlation coefficient of r = 0.80.", "contents": "Regulation of aldosterone secretion in dehydrated babies. The factors controlling aldosterone secretion were measured in 12 patients with moderate to severe dehydration during the first year of life. Secondary hyperaldosteronism was present in all cases (mean plasma aldosterone concentration 414.6 ng/dl), as well as increased plasma cortisol levels (mean 49.7 microgram/dl). Plasma cortisol, an indirect parameter of stimulation of the adrenal cortex by ACTH, showed the highest correlation with plasma aldosterone (r = 0.82). Despite a mean elevation of 168 ng AT/ml/h the plasma renin concentration did not seem to play the dominant role in the regulation of aldosterone secretion in these infants. High serum sodium concentrations have a clearly inhibiting effect on aldosterone secretion as shown by the negative correlation coefficient of r = 0.80.", "PMID": 436852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3322", "title": "Assessment of adriamycin cardiotoxicity in children by systolic time intervals.", "content": "In a prospective study, 44 children receiving Adriamycin (ADR) for various neoplastic diseases underwent serial estimations of the systolic time intervals (STI) for the noninvasive assessment of left ventricular myocardial performance. Five of the 44 children developed clinical signs of ADR-related congestive heart failure at a cumulative dose of less than 550 mg/m2 body surface area. Clinical symptoms, changes in the electrocardiogram and in the chest X-ray were preceded in every case by changes of the STI, mainly a prolongation of the left ventricular pre-ejection period (PEP), or a decrease of the ejection time (ET)/pre-ejection period (PEP) ratio (ET/PEP). A continous increase of the PEP and a decrease of the ET/PEP-ratio also gave an indication of myocardial dysfunction during ADR treatment in the other children without clinical signs of congestive heart failure. This subclinical cardiotoxic effect of ADR below the critical cumulative dose of 550 mg/m2 was observed in children with pre-existent myocardial damage, with preceding thoracic irradiation, or during concurrent chemotherapy, of which cyclophosphamide seemed to be most important. Thus, the estimation of the STI proved helpful and reliable in the early detection of incipient heart failure and in the selection of high risk patients in children receiving ADR treatment.", "contents": "Assessment of adriamycin cardiotoxicity in children by systolic time intervals. In a prospective study, 44 children receiving Adriamycin (ADR) for various neoplastic diseases underwent serial estimations of the systolic time intervals (STI) for the noninvasive assessment of left ventricular myocardial performance. Five of the 44 children developed clinical signs of ADR-related congestive heart failure at a cumulative dose of less than 550 mg/m2 body surface area. Clinical symptoms, changes in the electrocardiogram and in the chest X-ray were preceded in every case by changes of the STI, mainly a prolongation of the left ventricular pre-ejection period (PEP), or a decrease of the ejection time (ET)/pre-ejection period (PEP) ratio (ET/PEP). A continous increase of the PEP and a decrease of the ET/PEP-ratio also gave an indication of myocardial dysfunction during ADR treatment in the other children without clinical signs of congestive heart failure. This subclinical cardiotoxic effect of ADR below the critical cumulative dose of 550 mg/m2 was observed in children with pre-existent myocardial damage, with preceding thoracic irradiation, or during concurrent chemotherapy, of which cyclophosphamide seemed to be most important. Thus, the estimation of the STI proved helpful and reliable in the early detection of incipient heart failure and in the selection of high risk patients in children receiving ADR treatment.", "PMID": 436854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3323", "title": "Hyperdibasicaminoaciduria in a Turkish infant without evident protein intolerance.", "content": "The first patient of Turkish descent with hyperdibasicaminoaciduria is described. Recurrent diarrhea was observed only during the first three months of life. The infant exhibited low plasma levels of ornithine and arginine. Intestinal absorption of lysine was decreased. Hyperammonemia was noticed only after an i.v. alanine load. It was prevented by addition of arginine.", "contents": "Hyperdibasicaminoaciduria in a Turkish infant without evident protein intolerance. The first patient of Turkish descent with hyperdibasicaminoaciduria is described. Recurrent diarrhea was observed only during the first three months of life. The infant exhibited low plasma levels of ornithine and arginine. Intestinal absorption of lysine was decreased. Hyperammonemia was noticed only after an i.v. alanine load. It was prevented by addition of arginine.", "PMID": 436855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3324", "title": "The development of skeletal muscles in premature infants. I. Fibre size and histochemical differentiation.", "content": "Biopsies from various skeletal muscles were taken post mortem from infants with conceptional ages between 25 and 40 weeks. Cryostat sections were analysed quantitatively. The growth of the mean fibre diameter follows an exponential curve, which is mainly due to an initial predominance of type II-fibres. Before the 34th week of gestation only isolated large \"Wohlfart\"-fibres show type I staining characteristics. A great number of smaller type I-fibres appear suddenly around the 34th week. Their percentage of the total fibre population increases linearly to 40% at term. The development of the \"tonic\" type I-fibres correlates with certain aspects of gross motor development. The importance of normal data in the diagnosis of certain congenital myopathies is emphasized.", "contents": "The development of skeletal muscles in premature infants. I. Fibre size and histochemical differentiation. Biopsies from various skeletal muscles were taken post mortem from infants with conceptional ages between 25 and 40 weeks. Cryostat sections were analysed quantitatively. The growth of the mean fibre diameter follows an exponential curve, which is mainly due to an initial predominance of type II-fibres. Before the 34th week of gestation only isolated large \"Wohlfart\"-fibres show type I staining characteristics. A great number of smaller type I-fibres appear suddenly around the 34th week. Their percentage of the total fibre population increases linearly to 40% at term. The development of the \"tonic\" type I-fibres correlates with certain aspects of gross motor development. The importance of normal data in the diagnosis of certain congenital myopathies is emphasized.", "PMID": 436856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3325", "title": "CT-findings in a case of clover-leaf skull.", "content": "The authors report a detailed CT-investigation of \"clover-leaf skull\" and compare the findings with cases reported by others.", "contents": "CT-findings in a case of clover-leaf skull. The authors report a detailed CT-investigation of \"clover-leaf skull\" and compare the findings with cases reported by others.", "PMID": 436858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3326", "title": "Hydrocephalus after subarachnoid bleeding. A correlation of clinical findings, the results of radioisotope Cisternography and computer-assisted tomography.", "content": "Out of a group of patients suffering from a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage 27 patients were checked by computer-assisted tomography (CAT), 23 patients by radioisotope cisternography, and 21 patients by both diagnostic procedures. The results were correlated with the clinical observations. The flow of the CSF was normal in 7 patients (30.43%), and pathological in 16 patients (69.56%). Of the 27 patients checked by CAT, 23 (85.18%) showed a ventricular dilatation, which in 17 patients (62.96%) was not connected with a corresponding increase of the cisterns of the convexity. The clinical symptoms of hydrocephalus, the degree of impairment of the circulation of the CSF determined by radioisotope cisternography and the ventricular diameter as determined by CAT correlated well.", "contents": "Hydrocephalus after subarachnoid bleeding. A correlation of clinical findings, the results of radioisotope Cisternography and computer-assisted tomography. Out of a group of patients suffering from a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage 27 patients were checked by computer-assisted tomography (CAT), 23 patients by radioisotope cisternography, and 21 patients by both diagnostic procedures. The results were correlated with the clinical observations. The flow of the CSF was normal in 7 patients (30.43%), and pathological in 16 patients (69.56%). Of the 27 patients checked by CAT, 23 (85.18%) showed a ventricular dilatation, which in 17 patients (62.96%) was not connected with a corresponding increase of the cisterns of the convexity. The clinical symptoms of hydrocephalus, the degree of impairment of the circulation of the CSF determined by radioisotope cisternography and the ventricular diameter as determined by CAT correlated well.", "PMID": 436859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3327", "title": "Dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin spinal fluid metabolites in temporal lobe epileptic patients with schizophrenic symptomatology.", "content": "Cerebrospinal fluid metabolites of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin were studied in two groups of left temporal lobe epileptic patients, the only difference between the two groups being that one group had paranoid schizophrenic symptomatology. Homovanillic acid accumulation was decreased in this group. This finding may be a biochemical indicator of a genetic predisposition to schizophrenic symptomatology in certain epileptic patients.", "contents": "Dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin spinal fluid metabolites in temporal lobe epileptic patients with schizophrenic symptomatology. Cerebrospinal fluid metabolites of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin were studied in two groups of left temporal lobe epileptic patients, the only difference between the two groups being that one group had paranoid schizophrenic symptomatology. Homovanillic acid accumulation was decreased in this group. This finding may be a biochemical indicator of a genetic predisposition to schizophrenic symptomatology in certain epileptic patients.", "PMID": 436860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3328", "title": "Effects of taurine, glycine and GABA on convulsions produced by strychnine in the rabbit.", "content": "The action of intravenously injected taurine, glycine and GABA has been tested on convulsions induced by strychnine using electroencephalographic and electromyographic recordings. The dose of strychnine necessary to produce a generalized tonic-clonic seizure was 0.55 +/- 0.15 mg/kg intravenously for rabbits pretreated with taurine, which was significantly higher than for control animals (0.38 +/- 0.13 mg/kg). After pretreatment with glycine, the strychnine dose required to evoke convulsions (0.51 +/- 0.22 mg/kg) was also higher than the control values, but the difference was statistically not significant. The convulsive dose of strychnine in animals pretreated with GABA was slightly but not significantly lower than in control animals (0.31 +/- 0.13 mg/kg). These results suggest that taurine is the most effective amino acid to protect rabbits from seizures induced by strychnine.", "contents": "Effects of taurine, glycine and GABA on convulsions produced by strychnine in the rabbit. The action of intravenously injected taurine, glycine and GABA has been tested on convulsions induced by strychnine using electroencephalographic and electromyographic recordings. The dose of strychnine necessary to produce a generalized tonic-clonic seizure was 0.55 +/- 0.15 mg/kg intravenously for rabbits pretreated with taurine, which was significantly higher than for control animals (0.38 +/- 0.13 mg/kg). After pretreatment with glycine, the strychnine dose required to evoke convulsions (0.51 +/- 0.22 mg/kg) was also higher than the control values, but the difference was statistically not significant. The convulsive dose of strychnine in animals pretreated with GABA was slightly but not significantly lower than in control animals (0.31 +/- 0.13 mg/kg). These results suggest that taurine is the most effective amino acid to protect rabbits from seizures induced by strychnine.", "PMID": 436861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3329", "title": "Detrusor hyperreflexia in multiple sclerosis. Alleviation by a combination of imipramine and propantheline, a clinico-laboratory study.", "content": "16 patients with multiple sclerosis, complaining of urgency, frequency and urge incontinence were studied urologically. They all suffered from detrusor hyperreflexia. We managed to improve this disturbance by lowering the parasympathetic tone and at the same time increasing the sympathetic tone of the urinary outlet, using a combination of imipramine and propantheline. The subjective clinical alleviation was also corroborated by cystomanometry and urethral pressure profile before and after treatment.", "contents": "Detrusor hyperreflexia in multiple sclerosis. Alleviation by a combination of imipramine and propantheline, a clinico-laboratory study. 16 patients with multiple sclerosis, complaining of urgency, frequency and urge incontinence were studied urologically. They all suffered from detrusor hyperreflexia. We managed to improve this disturbance by lowering the parasympathetic tone and at the same time increasing the sympathetic tone of the urinary outlet, using a combination of imipramine and propantheline. The subjective clinical alleviation was also corroborated by cystomanometry and urethral pressure profile before and after treatment.", "PMID": 436862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3330", "title": "Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease associated with 'essential tremor' and normal and/or slightly diminished motor conduction velocity. Report of 7 cases.", "content": "We present a study of 7 cases of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, associated with a dyskinesia clinically identical with essential tremor, in which motor conduction velocity in the upper limbs was normal or slightly diminished. An analysis of age of onset, sex distribution and clinical signs from cases in the literature is compared with the present series. A family with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease in which affected members have widely different motor conduction velocity values is reported. Stress is laid upon the fact that categorization of this disease on electrophysiological studies in the upper limbs may present considerable difficulties.", "contents": "Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease associated with 'essential tremor' and normal and/or slightly diminished motor conduction velocity. Report of 7 cases. We present a study of 7 cases of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, associated with a dyskinesia clinically identical with essential tremor, in which motor conduction velocity in the upper limbs was normal or slightly diminished. An analysis of age of onset, sex distribution and clinical signs from cases in the literature is compared with the present series. A family with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease in which affected members have widely different motor conduction velocity values is reported. Stress is laid upon the fact that categorization of this disease on electrophysiological studies in the upper limbs may present considerable difficulties.", "PMID": 436863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3331", "title": "Myasthenia gravis: lung-function studies without and with edrophonium chloride.", "content": "25 myasthenia gravis-afflicted patients (14 crisis-endangered and 11 not endangered) were investigated with respect to their respiratory function and reaction of the respiratory parameters to Tensilon (edrophonium chloride). Results show that the vital capacity and the value of respiratory function parameters, measured under forced conditions, were partly significantly lower than those given as predicted values for healthy individuals. Maximal inspiratory flows indicated the greatest decrease. After intravenously administered Tensilon, the pathologically reduced maximal inspiratory flows increased. This positive effect of Tensilon can mark the alteration of the respiratory muscles and also the undertreatment of the patients. The observation that Tensilon may increase -- with some permanency -- the respiratory flow resistance and may decrease the maximal expiratory flow values, draws attention to the side effect (causing obstruction of the bronchi) of the drug, limiting its therapeutic use for patients in myasthenic crisis, especially in those complicated by obstructive lung disease.", "contents": "Myasthenia gravis: lung-function studies without and with edrophonium chloride. 25 myasthenia gravis-afflicted patients (14 crisis-endangered and 11 not endangered) were investigated with respect to their respiratory function and reaction of the respiratory parameters to Tensilon (edrophonium chloride). Results show that the vital capacity and the value of respiratory function parameters, measured under forced conditions, were partly significantly lower than those given as predicted values for healthy individuals. Maximal inspiratory flows indicated the greatest decrease. After intravenously administered Tensilon, the pathologically reduced maximal inspiratory flows increased. This positive effect of Tensilon can mark the alteration of the respiratory muscles and also the undertreatment of the patients. The observation that Tensilon may increase -- with some permanency -- the respiratory flow resistance and may decrease the maximal expiratory flow values, draws attention to the side effect (causing obstruction of the bronchi) of the drug, limiting its therapeutic use for patients in myasthenic crisis, especially in those complicated by obstructive lung disease.", "PMID": 436864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3332", "title": "Semiological value of the palmo-mental reflex in vascular hemiplegia.", "content": "The palmo-mental reflex has been described, together with other neurological signs, in senile dementia. It is, however, found in normal adults, where its frequency increases with age. In vascular hemiplegia it has a considerably higher incidence, nevertheless it is not a sign of mental deterioration.", "contents": "Semiological value of the palmo-mental reflex in vascular hemiplegia. The palmo-mental reflex has been described, together with other neurological signs, in senile dementia. It is, however, found in normal adults, where its frequency increases with age. In vascular hemiplegia it has a considerably higher incidence, nevertheless it is not a sign of mental deterioration.", "PMID": 436865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3333", "title": "Histological grading of prostatic carcinoma and its clinical evaluation.", "content": "The clinical control of patients with T1--T3, N0--M0 prostatic carcinomas allows us to draw the following conclusions regarding the grading. (1) The grading of the primary tumor is of great help in establishing the prognosis. (2) The results of the various applied treatments, like radical prostatectomy, radiation, and heterosexual hormone therapy, depend on the primary grade. The use of cytostatics in badly or undifferentiated prostatic carcinomas deserves on the contrary, better attention. (3) The changing of the grading at the various check-ups is of great therapeutical significance.", "contents": "Histological grading of prostatic carcinoma and its clinical evaluation. The clinical control of patients with T1--T3, N0--M0 prostatic carcinomas allows us to draw the following conclusions regarding the grading. (1) The grading of the primary tumor is of great help in establishing the prognosis. (2) The results of the various applied treatments, like radical prostatectomy, radiation, and heterosexual hormone therapy, depend on the primary grade. The use of cytostatics in badly or undifferentiated prostatic carcinomas deserves on the contrary, better attention. (3) The changing of the grading at the various check-ups is of great therapeutical significance.", "PMID": 436866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3334", "title": "Allopurinol in the prevention of calcium oxalate renal stones. Preliminary results.", "content": "The authors report their preliminary results using allopurinol as prophylactic treatment in 30 patients suffering from recurrent calcium oxalate renal stones. The results obtained were generally good, but a longer follow-up period and a larger patient population are required before definite conclusions can be drawn.", "contents": "Allopurinol in the prevention of calcium oxalate renal stones. Preliminary results. The authors report their preliminary results using allopurinol as prophylactic treatment in 30 patients suffering from recurrent calcium oxalate renal stones. The results obtained were generally good, but a longer follow-up period and a larger patient population are required before definite conclusions can be drawn.", "PMID": 436867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3335", "title": "Selective pudendal arteriography.", "content": "Selective pudendal arteriography is indicated in selected cases of male impotence when there is a strong presumption that peripheral arterial lesions are responsible for it. These lesions are classified as: (a) traumatic; (b) obstructive in thrombo-angiitis or atheroma, and (c) dysplasic. Selective arteriography will confirm the diagnosis and indicate the nature of the obstruction, its degree and extension.", "contents": "Selective pudendal arteriography. Selective pudendal arteriography is indicated in selected cases of male impotence when there is a strong presumption that peripheral arterial lesions are responsible for it. These lesions are classified as: (a) traumatic; (b) obstructive in thrombo-angiitis or atheroma, and (c) dysplasic. Selective arteriography will confirm the diagnosis and indicate the nature of the obstruction, its degree and extension.", "PMID": 436868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3336", "title": "Urinary lithiasis associated with urinary tuberculosis.", "content": "In a series of 2,500 patients with urinary tuberculosis, 74 cases evidenced an associated lithiasis (2.96%). Intensifying and amplifying the noxious effects, the association of these affections is misleading. Referring to the published data and their own experience, the authors therefore draw attention to this association which although relatively rare, is important because of the diagnostic problems it involves.", "contents": "Urinary lithiasis associated with urinary tuberculosis. In a series of 2,500 patients with urinary tuberculosis, 74 cases evidenced an associated lithiasis (2.96%). Intensifying and amplifying the noxious effects, the association of these affections is misleading. Referring to the published data and their own experience, the authors therefore draw attention to this association which although relatively rare, is important because of the diagnostic problems it involves.", "PMID": 436869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3337", "title": "Puncture of avascular renal 'tumour' as a necessary complement of angiography.", "content": "12 cases of 'avascular tumour' of the kidney are discussed. Percutaneous renal puncture revealed: 7 cases of malignant tumour; 3 cases of hydronephrosis of the upper segment of a duplicated kidney; 1 case of abscess of the kidney, and 1 case of renal tuberculosis. 10 out of 12 patients were operated on and the histological examination confirmed the diagnosis established by puncture.", "contents": "Puncture of avascular renal 'tumour' as a necessary complement of angiography. 12 cases of 'avascular tumour' of the kidney are discussed. Percutaneous renal puncture revealed: 7 cases of malignant tumour; 3 cases of hydronephrosis of the upper segment of a duplicated kidney; 1 case of abscess of the kidney, and 1 case of renal tuberculosis. 10 out of 12 patients were operated on and the histological examination confirmed the diagnosis established by puncture.", "PMID": 436870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3338", "title": "Sequential polychemotherapy for advanced prostatic carcinoma. A preliminary cooperative study on 30 patients.", "content": "30 patients with advanced prostatic carcinomas received sequential polychemotherapy with association of vincristine (or VM 26), cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil. In addition, 13 of these 30 patients received a dose of adriamycin during the first day of treatment, which did not change the results. This treatment was well tolerated and gave a good relief of bone pains.", "contents": "Sequential polychemotherapy for advanced prostatic carcinoma. A preliminary cooperative study on 30 patients. 30 patients with advanced prostatic carcinomas received sequential polychemotherapy with association of vincristine (or VM 26), cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil. In addition, 13 of these 30 patients received a dose of adriamycin during the first day of treatment, which did not change the results. This treatment was well tolerated and gave a good relief of bone pains.", "PMID": 436871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3339", "title": "Loop cutaneous ureterostomy as a method of urinary diversion in the adult.", "content": "A loop cutaneous ureterostomy was performed as an emergency treatment in 6 patients with bladder or prostatic cancer. Out of 9 operated ureters, only one stenosis was observed. Infection is a possible complication which can sometimes alter the renal function.", "contents": "Loop cutaneous ureterostomy as a method of urinary diversion in the adult. A loop cutaneous ureterostomy was performed as an emergency treatment in 6 patients with bladder or prostatic cancer. Out of 9 operated ureters, only one stenosis was observed. Infection is a possible complication which can sometimes alter the renal function.", "PMID": 436872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3340", "title": "Metastatic tumors of the penis.", "content": "The penis is a rare site of metastatic neoplasm in spite of its rich blood supply, abundant vascular space, proximity of the pelvic organs and interconnections with the pelvic and vertebral veins as well as lymphatics. The location of primary tumor has varied widely. The urinary bladder, prostate, rectum and rectosigmoid were common primary sites. In our series the bladder was the primary site in 3 patients, prostate in 2, and lung in 1. In 1 patient the metastatic lesion was secondary to lymphoma and in another to leukemia. The mode of metastasis, symptoms, treatment and prognosis are discussed.", "contents": "Metastatic tumors of the penis. The penis is a rare site of metastatic neoplasm in spite of its rich blood supply, abundant vascular space, proximity of the pelvic organs and interconnections with the pelvic and vertebral veins as well as lymphatics. The location of primary tumor has varied widely. The urinary bladder, prostate, rectum and rectosigmoid were common primary sites. In our series the bladder was the primary site in 3 patients, prostate in 2, and lung in 1. In 1 patient the metastatic lesion was secondary to lymphoma and in another to leukemia. The mode of metastasis, symptoms, treatment and prognosis are discussed.", "PMID": 436875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3341", "title": "Results of medical treatment of cystine lithiasis.", "content": "Litholytic and prophylactic medical treatment of cystine lithiasis in 42 patients over a 5-year period is reported. Treatment consists of administration of urinary alkalizing agents and alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine. Successful results were obtained in a high percentage of cases.", "contents": "Results of medical treatment of cystine lithiasis. Litholytic and prophylactic medical treatment of cystine lithiasis in 42 patients over a 5-year period is reported. Treatment consists of administration of urinary alkalizing agents and alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine. Successful results were obtained in a high percentage of cases.", "PMID": 436876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3342", "title": "Abdominal aortic aneurysms and ureteric obstruction.", "content": "Ureteric obstruction is rarely encountered in abdominal aortic aneurysms and is due to perianeurysmal fibrosis. 3 cases are described in which aortic aneurysm and retroperitoneal fibrosis are found. Excision of the aneurysm and ureterolysis with intraperitonization of the ureter is the most appropriate surgical procedure but treatment must be individualized according to the patient's condition and the operative discoveries.", "contents": "Abdominal aortic aneurysms and ureteric obstruction. Ureteric obstruction is rarely encountered in abdominal aortic aneurysms and is due to perianeurysmal fibrosis. 3 cases are described in which aortic aneurysm and retroperitoneal fibrosis are found. Excision of the aneurysm and ureterolysis with intraperitonization of the ureter is the most appropriate surgical procedure but treatment must be individualized according to the patient's condition and the operative discoveries.", "PMID": 436877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3343", "title": "Absorption of oxalic acid in rats by means of a 14C method.", "content": "13 rats received a daily dose of 0.5 ml of a 1% solution of 14C-marked sodium oxalate (specific activity 29 nCi/ml) administered in one application with a throat probe. Feces and urine were collected every 24 h and the amount of 14C-oxalate was determined by liquid scintillation counting. The average distribution for 13 rats during 7 days showed 25.2% of 14C-oxalate in the urine and 73.4% in the feces. The rate of absorption is considerably higher than values given in literature (2.6--12% urine). These results indicate that in the pathogenesis of calcium oxalate stone formation some possible significance must be attributed to the exogenic oxalate.", "contents": "Absorption of oxalic acid in rats by means of a 14C method. 13 rats received a daily dose of 0.5 ml of a 1% solution of 14C-marked sodium oxalate (specific activity 29 nCi/ml) administered in one application with a throat probe. Feces and urine were collected every 24 h and the amount of 14C-oxalate was determined by liquid scintillation counting. The average distribution for 13 rats during 7 days showed 25.2% of 14C-oxalate in the urine and 73.4% in the feces. The rate of absorption is considerably higher than values given in literature (2.6--12% urine). These results indicate that in the pathogenesis of calcium oxalate stone formation some possible significance must be attributed to the exogenic oxalate.", "PMID": 436878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3344", "title": "Experimental ureteral replacement with a vascularized gastric tubule.", "content": "Total ureteral substitution had been performed with a pedicled gastric flap shaped as a tubule in 6 dogs. No dilatation was found at X-ray controls. No metabolic changes were recorded. The HCl secretion diminished the possibility of an infecting reflux.", "contents": "Experimental ureteral replacement with a vascularized gastric tubule. Total ureteral substitution had been performed with a pedicled gastric flap shaped as a tubule in 6 dogs. No dilatation was found at X-ray controls. No metabolic changes were recorded. The HCl secretion diminished the possibility of an infecting reflux.", "PMID": 436879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3345", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of muzolimine in cardiac failure.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of a new \"high ceiling\" diuretic, muzolimine (Bay g 2821), were investigated after a single oral dose of 40 mg in 7 patients with cardiac failure (Stages I-IV, New York Heart Association classification), and in 2 healthy subjects. Plasma concentrations peaked 1-3 h after administration and declined according to a two-compartment model. The alpha-phase (distribution phase) lasted until 12-16 h after administration and the mean t 1/2 a was 3.6 h (range 2.3-4.7) in patients, and 2.6 h (range 2.3-2.9) in healthy subjects. The mean t 1/2 beta was 13.5 h (range 7.4-22.4) in the patients and 14.0 h (range 12.4-14.6) in healthy subjects. T 1/2 beta was not correlated with the degree of heart failure or with the area beneath the plasma concentration curve, which varied three-fold. The renal clearance of muzolimine was in the range 2.7-15.3 ml . min-1 in 5 subjects in whom it was investigated. The pharmacokinetics of muzolimine appear not to be significantly altered by cardiac failure. The prolonged half-lives of the drug are probably responsible for the longer duration of diuretic action reported for muzolimine than for furosemide and bumetamide.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of muzolimine in cardiac failure. The pharmacokinetics of a new \"high ceiling\" diuretic, muzolimine (Bay g 2821), were investigated after a single oral dose of 40 mg in 7 patients with cardiac failure (Stages I-IV, New York Heart Association classification), and in 2 healthy subjects. Plasma concentrations peaked 1-3 h after administration and declined according to a two-compartment model. The alpha-phase (distribution phase) lasted until 12-16 h after administration and the mean t 1/2 a was 3.6 h (range 2.3-4.7) in patients, and 2.6 h (range 2.3-2.9) in healthy subjects. The mean t 1/2 beta was 13.5 h (range 7.4-22.4) in the patients and 14.0 h (range 12.4-14.6) in healthy subjects. T 1/2 beta was not correlated with the degree of heart failure or with the area beneath the plasma concentration curve, which varied three-fold. The renal clearance of muzolimine was in the range 2.7-15.3 ml . min-1 in 5 subjects in whom it was investigated. The pharmacokinetics of muzolimine appear not to be significantly altered by cardiac failure. The prolonged half-lives of the drug are probably responsible for the longer duration of diuretic action reported for muzolimine than for furosemide and bumetamide.", "PMID": 436918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3346", "title": "Relationship between dose and plasma level of digoxin and patient characteristics.", "content": "The correlation between the daily dose of digoxin, its plasma level and clinical characteristics of 213 patients receiving beta-acetyldigoxin treatment has been evaluated. After logarithmic transformation of lognormally distributed variables multiple linear regression analysis was performed. Eight predictor variables were chosen: sex, age, height, weight, glycoside dose, creatinine and potassium level in serum and dose of spironolactone. The resulting correlation coefficient was 0.46, i.e. only 100 x r2 = 21.4% of the variance of the steady state digoxin plasma level could be interpreted with the aid of these variables. For only 4 of the 8 variables (age, glycoside dose, serum level of creatinine, and spironolactone dose) were partial coefficients of regression and of correlation significantly different from zero. Almost 80% of the variance could not be accounted for. This finding is in accordance with conclusions in the literature.", "contents": "Relationship between dose and plasma level of digoxin and patient characteristics. The correlation between the daily dose of digoxin, its plasma level and clinical characteristics of 213 patients receiving beta-acetyldigoxin treatment has been evaluated. After logarithmic transformation of lognormally distributed variables multiple linear regression analysis was performed. Eight predictor variables were chosen: sex, age, height, weight, glycoside dose, creatinine and potassium level in serum and dose of spironolactone. The resulting correlation coefficient was 0.46, i.e. only 100 x r2 = 21.4% of the variance of the steady state digoxin plasma level could be interpreted with the aid of these variables. For only 4 of the 8 variables (age, glycoside dose, serum level of creatinine, and spironolactone dose) were partial coefficients of regression and of correlation significantly different from zero. Almost 80% of the variance could not be accounted for. This finding is in accordance with conclusions in the literature.", "PMID": 436919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3347", "title": "Image of systemic antimicrobial agents as perceived by physicians in a 900 bed hospital.", "content": "A survey among hospital staff physicians was conducted in order to evaluate their attitudes towards systemic antimicrobial agents. Direct questions about the value of different agents and choice within pairs of antimicrobial drugs, stating the reasons for the preference, were included in the questionnaire used. Gentamicin, penicillin G and ampicillin were the most popular antibiotics among respondents. On the other hand, ampicillin, penicillin G, sulfonamides, tetracycline and aminoglycosides were the agents perceived as most often associated with side-effects. Low toxicity, bactericidal effect, diffusion in the body and familiarity with the drug were acknowledged as the most important attributes in choice of a systemic antimicrobial agent, but a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity appeared as a major determinant in the choice of these drugs when physicians were asked to select one substance from members of several pairs listed. The results suggest that certain important misconceptions may have played a substantial role in the prescribing habits of the physicians surveyed.", "contents": "Image of systemic antimicrobial agents as perceived by physicians in a 900 bed hospital. A survey among hospital staff physicians was conducted in order to evaluate their attitudes towards systemic antimicrobial agents. Direct questions about the value of different agents and choice within pairs of antimicrobial drugs, stating the reasons for the preference, were included in the questionnaire used. Gentamicin, penicillin G and ampicillin were the most popular antibiotics among respondents. On the other hand, ampicillin, penicillin G, sulfonamides, tetracycline and aminoglycosides were the agents perceived as most often associated with side-effects. Low toxicity, bactericidal effect, diffusion in the body and familiarity with the drug were acknowledged as the most important attributes in choice of a systemic antimicrobial agent, but a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity appeared as a major determinant in the choice of these drugs when physicians were asked to select one substance from members of several pairs listed. The results suggest that certain important misconceptions may have played a substantial role in the prescribing habits of the physicians surveyed.", "PMID": 436920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3348", "title": "Variability and predictability of the plasma concentration of ampicillin and kanamycin in new-born infants.", "content": "The variability and predictability of the plasma concentration of ampicillin and kanamycin in new-born infants being treated for infections are discussed. For kanamycin a standard dose regimen of 7.5 mg/kg/12h is recommended.", "contents": "Variability and predictability of the plasma concentration of ampicillin and kanamycin in new-born infants. The variability and predictability of the plasma concentration of ampicillin and kanamycin in new-born infants being treated for infections are discussed. For kanamycin a standard dose regimen of 7.5 mg/kg/12h is recommended.", "PMID": 436921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3349", "title": "Use of a simulation model to study the acute haemodynamic effects of diazoxide in man.", "content": "The acute haemodynamic effects of injected diazoxide (Hyperstat Schering) have been studied in 8 hypertensive subjects. Aortic blood pressure was measured and cardiac output and peripheral conductance were assessed continuously using a simulation model. In six of the patients pulmonary artery end-diastolic pressure was also measured. Blood pressure fell in all subjects 5-10 min after injection of the drug cardiac output increased in all patients studied. however, the initial change in cardiac output differed, as it decreased in two subjects and did not change in one. The largest initial increases in cardiac output were seen in the subjects with the highest pulmonary artery end-diastolic pressure. Patients with an initial decrease in cardiac output were those with the least compliant (stiffest) aortas. We consider that the responsiveness of the baroreceptors determines the size of the increase in cardiac output immediately after reduction of blood pressure by diazoxide. Thus in a patient with a stiff aorta, particularly at low cardiac filling pressure, diazoxide might cause a fall in blood pressure to an unacceptable level.", "contents": "Use of a simulation model to study the acute haemodynamic effects of diazoxide in man. The acute haemodynamic effects of injected diazoxide (Hyperstat Schering) have been studied in 8 hypertensive subjects. Aortic blood pressure was measured and cardiac output and peripheral conductance were assessed continuously using a simulation model. In six of the patients pulmonary artery end-diastolic pressure was also measured. Blood pressure fell in all subjects 5-10 min after injection of the drug cardiac output increased in all patients studied. however, the initial change in cardiac output differed, as it decreased in two subjects and did not change in one. The largest initial increases in cardiac output were seen in the subjects with the highest pulmonary artery end-diastolic pressure. Patients with an initial decrease in cardiac output were those with the least compliant (stiffest) aortas. We consider that the responsiveness of the baroreceptors determines the size of the increase in cardiac output immediately after reduction of blood pressure by diazoxide. Thus in a patient with a stiff aorta, particularly at low cardiac filling pressure, diazoxide might cause a fall in blood pressure to an unacceptable level.", "PMID": 436922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3350", "title": "Relationship between bronchial effects and plasma practolol concentration in man.", "content": "A double-blind, balanced and randomised study in 8 healthy volunteers examined the effects of relatively high versus low single doses of practolol on heart rate and ventilation at rest and during standardised exercise. Practolol 1 and 4 mg/kg, a typically non-selective drug propranolol 0.2 mg/kg, and placebo were given intravenously at weekly intervals. Cardiac beta-adrenoceptor blockade was measured by the reduction in exercise heart rate greater than 160 beats/min, and bronchial beta-adrenoceptor blockade by the reduction in exercise peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) up to 4 h after each treatment. Results were assessed by analysis of co-variance. All three active treatments reduced exercise heart rate markedly, practolol 4 mg/kg causing most reduction. Exercise PEFR was significantly reduced by propranolol 0.2 mg/kg compared with both practolol 1 mg/kg and placebo at all times of measurement, and by practolol 4 mg/kg compared with practolol 1 mg/kg and placebo at most times. Mean plasma concentrations after practolol 4 mg/kg were 3.5 to 4.5 times higher than after 1 mg/kg. Practolol may lose its 'cardioselectivity' and cause airflow obstruction at relatively high plasma concentrations above about 2 microgram/ml.", "contents": "Relationship between bronchial effects and plasma practolol concentration in man. A double-blind, balanced and randomised study in 8 healthy volunteers examined the effects of relatively high versus low single doses of practolol on heart rate and ventilation at rest and during standardised exercise. Practolol 1 and 4 mg/kg, a typically non-selective drug propranolol 0.2 mg/kg, and placebo were given intravenously at weekly intervals. Cardiac beta-adrenoceptor blockade was measured by the reduction in exercise heart rate greater than 160 beats/min, and bronchial beta-adrenoceptor blockade by the reduction in exercise peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) up to 4 h after each treatment. Results were assessed by analysis of co-variance. All three active treatments reduced exercise heart rate markedly, practolol 4 mg/kg causing most reduction. Exercise PEFR was significantly reduced by propranolol 0.2 mg/kg compared with both practolol 1 mg/kg and placebo at all times of measurement, and by practolol 4 mg/kg compared with practolol 1 mg/kg and placebo at most times. Mean plasma concentrations after practolol 4 mg/kg were 3.5 to 4.5 times higher than after 1 mg/kg. Practolol may lose its 'cardioselectivity' and cause airflow obstruction at relatively high plasma concentrations above about 2 microgram/ml.", "PMID": 436923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3351", "title": "Plasma levels and negative chronotropic effect of metoprolol following single doses of a conventional and sustained-release formulation.", "content": "Plasma levels and associated reduction in exercise-induced tachycardia have been examined following the administration of single doses of metoprolol in conventional and slow-release tablets at different times to six healthy male subjects. The study was carried out in two parts. Initially, the tablets were given at 9 a.m. and the subjects were studied up to 14 h and then at 24 h. Subsequently, the same doses were given at 9 p.m. and the subjects were studied 12-24 h after drug administration (i.e. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. the next day). After giving the slow-release tablets the peak plasma levels were significantly lower but the drug persisted in the plasma at higher levels than after the conventional tablet. However, the beta-blocking effect was comparable from the two dosages. The results obtained for the period 12-24 h after the evening dose differed from the corresponding values after morning administration in that the plasma levels were higher and the beta-blocking effects more marked. Furthermore, the half-life values calculated from these data were significantly longer.", "contents": "Plasma levels and negative chronotropic effect of metoprolol following single doses of a conventional and sustained-release formulation. Plasma levels and associated reduction in exercise-induced tachycardia have been examined following the administration of single doses of metoprolol in conventional and slow-release tablets at different times to six healthy male subjects. The study was carried out in two parts. Initially, the tablets were given at 9 a.m. and the subjects were studied up to 14 h and then at 24 h. Subsequently, the same doses were given at 9 p.m. and the subjects were studied 12-24 h after drug administration (i.e. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. the next day). After giving the slow-release tablets the peak plasma levels were significantly lower but the drug persisted in the plasma at higher levels than after the conventional tablet. However, the beta-blocking effect was comparable from the two dosages. The results obtained for the period 12-24 h after the evening dose differed from the corresponding values after morning administration in that the plasma levels were higher and the beta-blocking effects more marked. Furthermore, the half-life values calculated from these data were significantly longer.", "PMID": 436924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3352", "title": "Identification of an IgD-like surface immunoglobulin on rabbit lymphocytes.", "content": "Rabbit immunoglobulin antigen receptor molecules were analyzed by electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. By sequential precipitation, using first anti-mu and then anti-L chain antisera, two different immunogloublins of similar molecular weight could be demonstrated. After tryptic digestion, two fractions were identified: an IgMs and an Fab fragment, the latter appearing after a few minutes of incubation. Thus, as in man and in the mouse, two main immunoglobulin antigen receptors were found in the rabbit. One receptor on rabbit lymphocytes is an IgMs molecule, and the other is easily split in the hinge region like human and mouse IgD receptors. In addition, a molecule similar to the mouse Fc receptor was nonspecifically precipitated.", "contents": "Identification of an IgD-like surface immunoglobulin on rabbit lymphocytes. Rabbit immunoglobulin antigen receptor molecules were analyzed by electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. By sequential precipitation, using first anti-mu and then anti-L chain antisera, two different immunogloublins of similar molecular weight could be demonstrated. After tryptic digestion, two fractions were identified: an IgMs and an Fab fragment, the latter appearing after a few minutes of incubation. Thus, as in man and in the mouse, two main immunoglobulin antigen receptors were found in the rabbit. One receptor on rabbit lymphocytes is an IgMs molecule, and the other is easily split in the hinge region like human and mouse IgD receptors. In addition, a molecule similar to the mouse Fc receptor was nonspecifically precipitated.", "PMID": 436925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3353", "title": "A search for hapten-binding mouse plasmacytoma proteins.", "content": "Six hundred and twelve mouse plasmacytomas were screened for hapten binding by using eleven different bacteriophage-hapten conjugates (phage T4 conjugated with haptens NP, NIP, DIP, DNP,BOC-ABA-Tyr, ABA-NP, ABA-MIP, ABS-HOP, PAB-HOP, penicillin G, cloxacillin). Fifteen ascites fluids (2.4%) inactivated at least one of the phage conjugates at a high dilution indicating binding. The specificity of these reactions was studied by titrating one ascites fluid with phage conjugates carring unrelated haptens, and by inhibiting the phage inactivation with free haptens. Of the 15 myeloma proteins, 10 had high titers (at least 30 times higher than the ascites fluid background) with the NIP-cap phage or the NP-cap phage or both. Four had high titers with the DNP-cap phage and one with the ABA-MIP phage. Thirteen of the 15 myeloma proteins were IgA, one was IgM and one IgG2b.", "contents": "A search for hapten-binding mouse plasmacytoma proteins. Six hundred and twelve mouse plasmacytomas were screened for hapten binding by using eleven different bacteriophage-hapten conjugates (phage T4 conjugated with haptens NP, NIP, DIP, DNP,BOC-ABA-Tyr, ABA-NP, ABA-MIP, ABS-HOP, PAB-HOP, penicillin G, cloxacillin). Fifteen ascites fluids (2.4%) inactivated at least one of the phage conjugates at a high dilution indicating binding. The specificity of these reactions was studied by titrating one ascites fluid with phage conjugates carring unrelated haptens, and by inhibiting the phage inactivation with free haptens. Of the 15 myeloma proteins, 10 had high titers (at least 30 times higher than the ascites fluid background) with the NIP-cap phage or the NP-cap phage or both. Four had high titers with the DNP-cap phage and one with the ABA-MIP phage. Thirteen of the 15 myeloma proteins were IgA, one was IgM and one IgG2b.", "PMID": 436927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3354", "title": "Mitogenic activity of Mycoplasma pulmonis. II. Studies on the biochemical nature of the mitogenic factor.", "content": "The mitogenic activity of Mycoplasma pulmonis has been demonstrated to reside in the membrane of this microorganism. Studies aimed at the identification of the membraneous mitogenic factor have revealed that membrane proteins are essential components of this mitogenic manifestation. In addition, it has been shown that the micro-organism's outer surface membrane proteins are responsible for mitogenic activity. It has been shown, however, that isolated membrane lipids are not mitogenic for rat lymphocytes and are not required for the membrane's mitogenic potential.", "contents": "Mitogenic activity of Mycoplasma pulmonis. II. Studies on the biochemical nature of the mitogenic factor. The mitogenic activity of Mycoplasma pulmonis has been demonstrated to reside in the membrane of this microorganism. Studies aimed at the identification of the membraneous mitogenic factor have revealed that membrane proteins are essential components of this mitogenic manifestation. In addition, it has been shown that the micro-organism's outer surface membrane proteins are responsible for mitogenic activity. It has been shown, however, that isolated membrane lipids are not mitogenic for rat lymphocytes and are not required for the membrane's mitogenic potential.", "PMID": 436928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3355", "title": "High nonspecific reactivity of normal lymphocytes against mycoplasma-infected target cells in cytotoxicity assays.", "content": "Several rat tumor cell cultures were deliberately infected with three species of mycoplasma commonly found as contaminants of cell lines grown in vitro, and the effect of mycoplasma infection on the results of cytotoxicity assays was examined. Lymph node cells and spleen cells from normal animals showed an apparently high spontaneous cytotoxic activity against tumor cells infected with either M. arginini or M. hyorhinis, but the reactivity against cells infected with M. orale was not significantly higher than that against uninfected cells. The high reactivity towards tumor cells infected with M. arginini and M. hyorhinis bore a close resemblence to natural cell-mediated immunity in that spleen cells were much more reactive than lymph node cells, spleen cells from nude mice were as effective as spleen cells from normal mice, and the reaction crossed both strain and species barriers. However, closer examination revealed that the cytotoxic effects were directly caused by depletion of arginine or other essential nutrients from the medium. These findings imply that a cautious approach should be taken when interpreting certain aspects of spontaneous cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and that the greatest care be taken to ensure that the cells used as targets in any cytotoxicity test are mycoplasma-free.", "contents": "High nonspecific reactivity of normal lymphocytes against mycoplasma-infected target cells in cytotoxicity assays. Several rat tumor cell cultures were deliberately infected with three species of mycoplasma commonly found as contaminants of cell lines grown in vitro, and the effect of mycoplasma infection on the results of cytotoxicity assays was examined. Lymph node cells and spleen cells from normal animals showed an apparently high spontaneous cytotoxic activity against tumor cells infected with either M. arginini or M. hyorhinis, but the reactivity against cells infected with M. orale was not significantly higher than that against uninfected cells. The high reactivity towards tumor cells infected with M. arginini and M. hyorhinis bore a close resemblence to natural cell-mediated immunity in that spleen cells were much more reactive than lymph node cells, spleen cells from nude mice were as effective as spleen cells from normal mice, and the reaction crossed both strain and species barriers. However, closer examination revealed that the cytotoxic effects were directly caused by depletion of arginine or other essential nutrients from the medium. These findings imply that a cautious approach should be taken when interpreting certain aspects of spontaneous cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and that the greatest care be taken to ensure that the cells used as targets in any cytotoxicity test are mycoplasma-free.", "PMID": 436929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3356", "title": "Cross-tolerance to centrally injected barbiturates.", "content": "Hypnotic responses to intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injections of either barbital, pentobarbital, R(-) and S(+) mephorbarbital, or racemic metharbital were compared to those produced by phenobarbital. Dose--response relationships were obtained for all except S(+) mephorbarbital and metharbital. Chronic i.c.v. phenobarbital administration resulted in tolerance to the drug's hypnotic effects. However, chronic barbital administration using an identical regimen did not produce tolerance, nor were phenobarbital tolerant rats cross-tolerant to barbital. Chronic i.c.v pentobarbital resulted in an irreversible decrease in responsiveness to its own effects and to those of other barbiturates. This was attributed to the high alkalinity of the solution (pH 9.6) since i.c.v. injection of saline adjusted to the same pH also reduced responsiveness to i.c.v. barbiturates. However, rats tolerant to i.c.v. phenobarbital were tolerant to acute i.c.v. injection of pentobarbital. Similar cross-tolerance was observed on systemic administration of the barbiturates. The efflux rates of i.c.v. phenobarbital or barbital and their distribution to different brain areas were identical in tolerant and nontolerant rats. Awakening phenobarbital brain levels of the tolerant rats were approximately three times higher than those in nontolerant controls. The conclusion is reached that central administration of phenobarbital provides a valid model for studying functional tolerance.", "contents": "Cross-tolerance to centrally injected barbiturates. Hypnotic responses to intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injections of either barbital, pentobarbital, R(-) and S(+) mephorbarbital, or racemic metharbital were compared to those produced by phenobarbital. Dose--response relationships were obtained for all except S(+) mephorbarbital and metharbital. Chronic i.c.v. phenobarbital administration resulted in tolerance to the drug's hypnotic effects. However, chronic barbital administration using an identical regimen did not produce tolerance, nor were phenobarbital tolerant rats cross-tolerant to barbital. Chronic i.c.v pentobarbital resulted in an irreversible decrease in responsiveness to its own effects and to those of other barbiturates. This was attributed to the high alkalinity of the solution (pH 9.6) since i.c.v. injection of saline adjusted to the same pH also reduced responsiveness to i.c.v. barbiturates. However, rats tolerant to i.c.v. phenobarbital were tolerant to acute i.c.v. injection of pentobarbital. Similar cross-tolerance was observed on systemic administration of the barbiturates. The efflux rates of i.c.v. phenobarbital or barbital and their distribution to different brain areas were identical in tolerant and nontolerant rats. Awakening phenobarbital brain levels of the tolerant rats were approximately three times higher than those in nontolerant controls. The conclusion is reached that central administration of phenobarbital provides a valid model for studying functional tolerance.", "PMID": 436931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3357", "title": "Dopamine--acetylcholine \"balance\" in nucleus accumbens and corpus striatum and its effect on hypothalamic self-stimulation.", "content": "Three experiments investigated the suppression of hypothalamic self-stimulation in rats by neuroleptics and its restoration by centrally acting anticholinergic agents. Scopolamine (0.1--1.0 mg/kg i.p.) and benztropine (1.0--10.0 mg/kg i.p.) each enhanced self-stimulation when administered alone, and partially restored performance suppressed by spiroperidol (0.05--0.15 mg/kg i.p.). Benztropine strongly inhibits transmitter reuptake at DA synapses but scopolamine does not, thus inhibition of DA reuptake cannot fully account for the stimulant or antineuroleptic action of anticholinergic drugs. Neuroleptic and anticholinergic effects on self-stimulation rate were mutually subtractive, and statistical evidence of interaction was not obtained. Scopolamine was shown also to restore performance extinguished by discontinuation of the stimulating current. Smaller doses of scopolamine (50 nmol; 19 microgram) injected directly into the nucleus accumbens septi partially restored responding suppressed by spiroperidol, though similar doses of scopolamine injected bilaterally into the caudate-putamen were ineffective. These findings suggest that hypothalamic self-stimulation may be influenced by ACh-and DA-containing systems which exert independent effects on a third system controlling performance. These effects appear to reflect the level of arousal or motivation rather than the reinforcement process itself.", "contents": "Dopamine--acetylcholine \"balance\" in nucleus accumbens and corpus striatum and its effect on hypothalamic self-stimulation. Three experiments investigated the suppression of hypothalamic self-stimulation in rats by neuroleptics and its restoration by centrally acting anticholinergic agents. Scopolamine (0.1--1.0 mg/kg i.p.) and benztropine (1.0--10.0 mg/kg i.p.) each enhanced self-stimulation when administered alone, and partially restored performance suppressed by spiroperidol (0.05--0.15 mg/kg i.p.). Benztropine strongly inhibits transmitter reuptake at DA synapses but scopolamine does not, thus inhibition of DA reuptake cannot fully account for the stimulant or antineuroleptic action of anticholinergic drugs. Neuroleptic and anticholinergic effects on self-stimulation rate were mutually subtractive, and statistical evidence of interaction was not obtained. Scopolamine was shown also to restore performance extinguished by discontinuation of the stimulating current. Smaller doses of scopolamine (50 nmol; 19 microgram) injected directly into the nucleus accumbens septi partially restored responding suppressed by spiroperidol, though similar doses of scopolamine injected bilaterally into the caudate-putamen were ineffective. These findings suggest that hypothalamic self-stimulation may be influenced by ACh-and DA-containing systems which exert independent effects on a third system controlling performance. These effects appear to reflect the level of arousal or motivation rather than the reinforcement process itself.", "PMID": 436932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3358", "title": "Morphine and naloxone: effects on conditioned fear as measured with the potentiated startle paradigm.", "content": "Morphine (0.6 to 10 mg/kg) produced a dose-dependent reduction of the potentiated startle effect where acoustic startle amplitude is normally increased in the presence of a light previously paired with a shock. The effect was selective since the same doses did not appreciably depress baseline levels of startle. Naloxone (2 mg/kg) did not significantly affect potentiated startle, but antagonized the ability of morphine (10 mg/kg) to block potentiated startle. Morphine did not block potentiated startle by accelerating extinction. The advantages of this paradigm for studying fear or anxiety were discussed.", "contents": "Morphine and naloxone: effects on conditioned fear as measured with the potentiated startle paradigm. Morphine (0.6 to 10 mg/kg) produced a dose-dependent reduction of the potentiated startle effect where acoustic startle amplitude is normally increased in the presence of a light previously paired with a shock. The effect was selective since the same doses did not appreciably depress baseline levels of startle. Naloxone (2 mg/kg) did not significantly affect potentiated startle, but antagonized the ability of morphine (10 mg/kg) to block potentiated startle. Morphine did not block potentiated startle by accelerating extinction. The advantages of this paradigm for studying fear or anxiety were discussed.", "PMID": 436933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3359", "title": "Paradoxical short-term effects of cyproheptadine on insulin and glucagon release in the rat.", "content": "The administration of cyproheptadine (25 mg/kg; i.p.) resulted in an increase of plasma insulin and glucagon (measured using 30 K antibody) 30, 60 and 120 min after injection to fasted rats. This dose of cyproheptadine also induced a hyperglycemia whereas a lower dose (5 mg/kg; i.p.), which did not alter plasma hormone levels, was associated with a hypoglycemia. Fed rats showed a reduction of plasma insulin with a similar elevation of blood glucose after cyproheptadine. Administration of an exogenous load of arginine resulted in increases of plasma insulin and glucagon of a greater magnitude than induced by cyproheptadine, however, cyproheptadine pretreatment (25 mg/kg) completely suppressed the pancreatic response to the amino acid, resulting in blood hormone levels similar to values seen after cyproheptadine administered alone. Cyproheptadine pretreatment also prevented the hyperinsulinemia and hypoglucagonemia resulting from glucose loading. alpha-Adrenergic receptor blockade (with phentolamine), beta adrenergic receptor blockade (with propranolol) and adrenodemedullation did not alter pancreatic responsiveness to the drug.", "contents": "Paradoxical short-term effects of cyproheptadine on insulin and glucagon release in the rat. The administration of cyproheptadine (25 mg/kg; i.p.) resulted in an increase of plasma insulin and glucagon (measured using 30 K antibody) 30, 60 and 120 min after injection to fasted rats. This dose of cyproheptadine also induced a hyperglycemia whereas a lower dose (5 mg/kg; i.p.), which did not alter plasma hormone levels, was associated with a hypoglycemia. Fed rats showed a reduction of plasma insulin with a similar elevation of blood glucose after cyproheptadine. Administration of an exogenous load of arginine resulted in increases of plasma insulin and glucagon of a greater magnitude than induced by cyproheptadine, however, cyproheptadine pretreatment (25 mg/kg) completely suppressed the pancreatic response to the amino acid, resulting in blood hormone levels similar to values seen after cyproheptadine administered alone. Cyproheptadine pretreatment also prevented the hyperinsulinemia and hypoglucagonemia resulting from glucose loading. alpha-Adrenergic receptor blockade (with phentolamine), beta adrenergic receptor blockade (with propranolol) and adrenodemedullation did not alter pancreatic responsiveness to the drug.", "PMID": 436934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3360", "title": "Pharmacologic response to pentobarbital in passively immunized mice.", "content": "Rabbits were actively immunized using a barbiturate--BGG conjugate as the immunogen. The antiserum obtained from actively immunized rabbits was administered intravenously to mice to accomplish passive immunization. The antibody binding capacity for 3H-phenobarbital was shown to be sustained in passively immunized mice for periods of up to three weeks. Serum levels of 3H-phenobarbital in passively immunized mice and control mice were compared following drug administration and found to be altered in the antibody-containing mice. There was a 4-fold higher amount of 3H-phenobarbital present in the serum of passively immunized mice compared to control animals. The higher barbiturate levels were due to binding of 3H-phenobarbital to globulin fraction of serum in passively immunized mice. Additionally, decreased pentobarbital-induced ataxia was demonstrated in passively immunized mice. The decreased responsiveness was selective for barbiturates in passively immunized mice and did not modify the ataxia produced in these animals by another depressant agent, ethanol.", "contents": "Pharmacologic response to pentobarbital in passively immunized mice. Rabbits were actively immunized using a barbiturate--BGG conjugate as the immunogen. The antiserum obtained from actively immunized rabbits was administered intravenously to mice to accomplish passive immunization. The antibody binding capacity for 3H-phenobarbital was shown to be sustained in passively immunized mice for periods of up to three weeks. Serum levels of 3H-phenobarbital in passively immunized mice and control mice were compared following drug administration and found to be altered in the antibody-containing mice. There was a 4-fold higher amount of 3H-phenobarbital present in the serum of passively immunized mice compared to control animals. The higher barbiturate levels were due to binding of 3H-phenobarbital to globulin fraction of serum in passively immunized mice. Additionally, decreased pentobarbital-induced ataxia was demonstrated in passively immunized mice. The decreased responsiveness was selective for barbiturates in passively immunized mice and did not modify the ataxia produced in these animals by another depressant agent, ethanol.", "PMID": 436935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3361", "title": "The effect of saline loading on blood pressure and catecholamine secretion in the rat and the cat.", "content": "The effects of acute and chronic saline loading on blood pressure and catechalomine (CA) response in the rat and cat were studied. In the rat, both acute and chronic saline loading stimulated urinary CA excretion without affecting blood pressure; adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity was increased. Pentolinium bitartrate abolished the increase in CA excretion. Chronic saline loading reduced the plasma renin concentration (PRC) and the heart noradrenaline concentration and elevated the plasma cholesterol. Acute infusion of isotonic or hypertonic saline in the cat stimulated adrenomedullary CA secretion. This response was not significantly affected after bilateral cervical vagotomy, but was totally abolished following bilateral nephrectomy. Blood pressure was increased only during the isotonic saline infusion but not during hypertonic saline administration. It is concluded that stimulation of adrenal CA secretion by saline loading is mediated through a renal factor.", "contents": "The effect of saline loading on blood pressure and catecholamine secretion in the rat and the cat. The effects of acute and chronic saline loading on blood pressure and catechalomine (CA) response in the rat and cat were studied. In the rat, both acute and chronic saline loading stimulated urinary CA excretion without affecting blood pressure; adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity was increased. Pentolinium bitartrate abolished the increase in CA excretion. Chronic saline loading reduced the plasma renin concentration (PRC) and the heart noradrenaline concentration and elevated the plasma cholesterol. Acute infusion of isotonic or hypertonic saline in the cat stimulated adrenomedullary CA secretion. This response was not significantly affected after bilateral cervical vagotomy, but was totally abolished following bilateral nephrectomy. Blood pressure was increased only during the isotonic saline infusion but not during hypertonic saline administration. It is concluded that stimulation of adrenal CA secretion by saline loading is mediated through a renal factor.", "PMID": 436936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3362", "title": "Noradrenergic processes involved in the locomotor effects of ethanol.", "content": "Male albino Wistar rats were depleted of forebrain noradrenaline by intracerebral injection of 4 microgram of 6-hydroxydopamine into the noradrenaline bundles in the mesencephalon. The locomotor response was examined in response to intraperitoneal injection of ethanol. The locomotor stimulation by 0.1 g/kg ethanol was not altered by the lesion, whereas the sedation found in response to 1 g/kg in controls failed to occur in the lesioned rats and instead a stimulation was seen.", "contents": "Noradrenergic processes involved in the locomotor effects of ethanol. Male albino Wistar rats were depleted of forebrain noradrenaline by intracerebral injection of 4 microgram of 6-hydroxydopamine into the noradrenaline bundles in the mesencephalon. The locomotor response was examined in response to intraperitoneal injection of ethanol. The locomotor stimulation by 0.1 g/kg ethanol was not altered by the lesion, whereas the sedation found in response to 1 g/kg in controls failed to occur in the lesioned rats and instead a stimulation was seen.", "PMID": 436937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3363", "title": "The effect of enkephalins on the intramural inhibitory non-adrenergic nerve responses of smooth muscle.", "content": "The study concerned the effect of enkephalins and naloxone on the inhibitory non-adrenergic nerve responses of the taenia coli and the stomach smooth muscle cells of the guinea pig. Met-enkephalin, leu-enkephalin and D-ala-enkephalin (10(-8)10(-5)M) did not affect the muscle tension or membrane potential measured simultaneously using the sucrose-gap method. Naloxone (5x10(-8)--5x10(-6)M) relaxed the stomach strip, but did not modify the inhibitory junction potential. These results indicate that enkephalins are not involved in the nonadrenergic inhibitory nervous system, except possibly as neuromodulators at an interneuronal synaptic level.", "contents": "The effect of enkephalins on the intramural inhibitory non-adrenergic nerve responses of smooth muscle. The study concerned the effect of enkephalins and naloxone on the inhibitory non-adrenergic nerve responses of the taenia coli and the stomach smooth muscle cells of the guinea pig. Met-enkephalin, leu-enkephalin and D-ala-enkephalin (10(-8)10(-5)M) did not affect the muscle tension or membrane potential measured simultaneously using the sucrose-gap method. Naloxone (5x10(-8)--5x10(-6)M) relaxed the stomach strip, but did not modify the inhibitory junction potential. These results indicate that enkephalins are not involved in the nonadrenergic inhibitory nervous system, except possibly as neuromodulators at an interneuronal synaptic level.", "PMID": 436938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3364", "title": "Inhibitory effect of tripeptides containing L-Phe-L-Tyr on neuronal excitability.", "content": "Eight tripeptides containing L-Phe-L-Tyr were synthesized, and their effects on the excitability of a giant neurone (tonically autoactive neurone, TAN), identified in the suboesophageal ganglion of an African giant snail (Achiatina fulica F\u00e9russac), were examined. Of these tripeptides, the following three showed a marked inhibitory effect: L-Glu-L-Phe-L-Tyr (most effective; critical concentration: 3 X 10(-6)--10(-5) M), Gly-L-Phe-L-Tyr and sarcosine-L-Phe-L-Tyr. The TAN inhibition caused by L-Glu-L-Phe-L-Tyr was not due to an increased membrane permeability to chloride ions.", "contents": "Inhibitory effect of tripeptides containing L-Phe-L-Tyr on neuronal excitability. Eight tripeptides containing L-Phe-L-Tyr were synthesized, and their effects on the excitability of a giant neurone (tonically autoactive neurone, TAN), identified in the suboesophageal ganglion of an African giant snail (Achiatina fulica F\u00e9russac), were examined. Of these tripeptides, the following three showed a marked inhibitory effect: L-Glu-L-Phe-L-Tyr (most effective; critical concentration: 3 X 10(-6)--10(-5) M), Gly-L-Phe-L-Tyr and sarcosine-L-Phe-L-Tyr. The TAN inhibition caused by L-Glu-L-Phe-L-Tyr was not due to an increased membrane permeability to chloride ions.", "PMID": 436939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3365", "title": "Digoxin-induced decrease in intraocular pressure in the cat.", "content": "A constant intravenous infusion of digoxin (2 micrograms/kg/min) to alpha-chloralose-anesthetized cats produced a progressive decrease in intraocular pressure with increasing doses of digoxin between 60 micrograms/kg and drug-induced ventricular arrhythmia which occurred at a mean dose of 172 micrograms/kg. Digoxin elicited a 40% decrease in intraocular pressure just prior to ventricular arrhythmia compared to a decrease of only 10% with a control infusion of diluent in the same animal (P less than 0.05). There was no significant difference (P less than 0.1) between changes in blood pressure and heart rate observed in the experimental versus the control infusions. The decrease in intraocular pressure may result from inhibition of the Na-K-ATPase in the ciliary body.", "contents": "Digoxin-induced decrease in intraocular pressure in the cat. A constant intravenous infusion of digoxin (2 micrograms/kg/min) to alpha-chloralose-anesthetized cats produced a progressive decrease in intraocular pressure with increasing doses of digoxin between 60 micrograms/kg and drug-induced ventricular arrhythmia which occurred at a mean dose of 172 micrograms/kg. Digoxin elicited a 40% decrease in intraocular pressure just prior to ventricular arrhythmia compared to a decrease of only 10% with a control infusion of diluent in the same animal (P less than 0.05). There was no significant difference (P less than 0.1) between changes in blood pressure and heart rate observed in the experimental versus the control infusions. The decrease in intraocular pressure may result from inhibition of the Na-K-ATPase in the ciliary body.", "PMID": 436941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3366", "title": "Cholinergic-mediated gastric mast cell degranulation with subsequent histamine H1-and H2-receptor activation in stress ulceration in rats.", "content": "The effects of atropine, mepyramine, metiamide or NaHCO3 on gastric ulceration, gastric secretion and gastric mast cell degranulation were studied in stressed pylorus-occluded rats. The influence of dexamethasone pretreatment on stress ulcers in animals without pylorus occlusion (intact rats) was also examined. Stress produced a high glandular lesion incidence and ulcer index, and markedly lowered gastric secretion and glandular wall mast cell counts. Injected 0.5 h before stress, atropine, mepyramine or metiamide strongly antagonised ulceration. Atropine or metiamide, but not mepyramine, reduced gastric secretion. Only atropine prevented stress-induced mast cell changes. NaHCO3, given intragastrically before stress, did not prevent ulceration or mast cell degranulation despite complete neutralisation of gastric acid. Dexamethasone-induced gastric mucosal mast cell depletion could reduce stress ulceration. The findings show that stress degranulates stomach mast cells via a cholinergic pathway; released histamine from this source is largely responsbile for gastric ulceration through H1- and H2-receptor effects. Histamine H2-receptor-mediated gastric acid may play only a small contributory role in stress ulcers in rats. The antiulcer mechanisms of histamine H1- and H2-receptor blockade are discussed.", "contents": "Cholinergic-mediated gastric mast cell degranulation with subsequent histamine H1-and H2-receptor activation in stress ulceration in rats. The effects of atropine, mepyramine, metiamide or NaHCO3 on gastric ulceration, gastric secretion and gastric mast cell degranulation were studied in stressed pylorus-occluded rats. The influence of dexamethasone pretreatment on stress ulcers in animals without pylorus occlusion (intact rats) was also examined. Stress produced a high glandular lesion incidence and ulcer index, and markedly lowered gastric secretion and glandular wall mast cell counts. Injected 0.5 h before stress, atropine, mepyramine or metiamide strongly antagonised ulceration. Atropine or metiamide, but not mepyramine, reduced gastric secretion. Only atropine prevented stress-induced mast cell changes. NaHCO3, given intragastrically before stress, did not prevent ulceration or mast cell degranulation despite complete neutralisation of gastric acid. Dexamethasone-induced gastric mucosal mast cell depletion could reduce stress ulceration. The findings show that stress degranulates stomach mast cells via a cholinergic pathway; released histamine from this source is largely responsbile for gastric ulceration through H1- and H2-receptor effects. Histamine H2-receptor-mediated gastric acid may play only a small contributory role in stress ulcers in rats. The antiulcer mechanisms of histamine H1- and H2-receptor blockade are discussed.", "PMID": 436942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3367", "title": "Cholinergic mediation of motor effects of ethanol in rats.", "content": "The role of cholinergic neurons in the motor depressant effects of ethanol was examined. Choline chloride pretreatment (30-90 mg/kg i.p.) potentiated the hypomotility produced by 2 g/kg of ethanol. Physostigmine pretreatment (0.2 mg/kg i.p.) also enhanced the motor depression produced by ethanol. Conversely, in animals pretreated with scopolamine (0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg) the depressant effect of ethanol was less. The potentiation produced by choline was not associated with changes in levels of ethanol in blood. It is concluded that cholinergic neurons are involved in the motor activity changes produced by ethanol. Such a mechanism may operate in conjunction with the dopaminergic neuronal system.", "contents": "Cholinergic mediation of motor effects of ethanol in rats. The role of cholinergic neurons in the motor depressant effects of ethanol was examined. Choline chloride pretreatment (30-90 mg/kg i.p.) potentiated the hypomotility produced by 2 g/kg of ethanol. Physostigmine pretreatment (0.2 mg/kg i.p.) also enhanced the motor depression produced by ethanol. Conversely, in animals pretreated with scopolamine (0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg) the depressant effect of ethanol was less. The potentiation produced by choline was not associated with changes in levels of ethanol in blood. It is concluded that cholinergic neurons are involved in the motor activity changes produced by ethanol. Such a mechanism may operate in conjunction with the dopaminergic neuronal system.", "PMID": 436943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3368", "title": "Mechanism of mesaconitine-induced contractile response in guinea pig vas deferens.", "content": "Mesaconitine (MA) caused contraction of the isolate guinea pig vas deferens in a dose-dependent manner (3 x 10(-6) - 10-(-4) g/ml) and nonspecifically potentiated the contractile response to norepinephrine (NE), acetylcholine, histamine and tyramine. Tachyphylaxis developed during the repeated application of MA. The contraction produced by MA was prevented by treatment with phentolamine, phenoxybenzamine, procaine, bretylium or tetrodotoxin, pretreatment with reserpine or 6-hyroxydopamine, or denervation. Atropine or hexamethonium did not abolish the effect of MA, excluding the possibility that the muscarinic and nicotinic receptors are the site of action of MA. MA elicited a dose-dependent release of NE from the isolated vas deferens which had been blocked by treatment with tetrodotoxin, pretreatment with reserpine, or the exclusion of calcium ion from the bath medium. Consequently, it is concluded that MA-induced contraction was brought about by the release of NE from pre-synaptic neuronal sites and by excitation of the post-synaptic membrane.", "contents": "Mechanism of mesaconitine-induced contractile response in guinea pig vas deferens. Mesaconitine (MA) caused contraction of the isolate guinea pig vas deferens in a dose-dependent manner (3 x 10(-6) - 10-(-4) g/ml) and nonspecifically potentiated the contractile response to norepinephrine (NE), acetylcholine, histamine and tyramine. Tachyphylaxis developed during the repeated application of MA. The contraction produced by MA was prevented by treatment with phentolamine, phenoxybenzamine, procaine, bretylium or tetrodotoxin, pretreatment with reserpine or 6-hyroxydopamine, or denervation. Atropine or hexamethonium did not abolish the effect of MA, excluding the possibility that the muscarinic and nicotinic receptors are the site of action of MA. MA elicited a dose-dependent release of NE from the isolated vas deferens which had been blocked by treatment with tetrodotoxin, pretreatment with reserpine, or the exclusion of calcium ion from the bath medium. Consequently, it is concluded that MA-induced contraction was brought about by the release of NE from pre-synaptic neuronal sites and by excitation of the post-synaptic membrane.", "PMID": 436944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3369", "title": "Disparity tuning and binocularity of single neurons in cat visual cortex.", "content": "Activity from single neurons in the visual cortex of anaesthetized and paralyzed cats were recorded in response to monocular and binocular stimuli of different retinal disparities. Three different types of disparity sensitive neurons were found, characterized by (1) a response maximum near zero disparity, (2) a response minimum near zero disparity, and (3) an asymmetric disparity sensitivity. Usually, neurons of the first type receive about the same monocular input from the two eyes; the other disparity sensitive neurons respond better to monocular stimulation of one eye as compared to the other. The results closely resemble those obtained recently in the rhesus monkey.", "contents": "Disparity tuning and binocularity of single neurons in cat visual cortex. Activity from single neurons in the visual cortex of anaesthetized and paralyzed cats were recorded in response to monocular and binocular stimuli of different retinal disparities. Three different types of disparity sensitive neurons were found, characterized by (1) a response maximum near zero disparity, (2) a response minimum near zero disparity, and (3) an asymmetric disparity sensitivity. Usually, neurons of the first type receive about the same monocular input from the two eyes; the other disparity sensitive neurons respond better to monocular stimulation of one eye as compared to the other. The results closely resemble those obtained recently in the rhesus monkey.", "PMID": 436983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3370", "title": "Characteristics of transcriptionally active and inactive neuronal and nonastrocytic glial rat brain chromatin fractions.", "content": "Rapid and reliable fractionation of neuronal and nonastrocytic glial (NAG) cerebral rat brain chromatin in transcribable and repressed portions was achieved employing the DNAase II/Mg++-solubility method of Gottesfeld et al. (1974). Compositional and transcriptional properties of these fractions have been investigated. Compared to transcriptionally repressed fractions, template-active neuronal and NAG chromatin fractions are associated with an increased content of nonhistone chromosomal (NHC-) proteins. Both of the transcribable as well as both of the repressed fractions are strikingly different in their composition as assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Comparative acid urea gel electrophoretic patterns of histones revealed that histone fraction H 1 is almost completely absent in actively transcribed neuronal chromatin and reduced in the corresponding NAG fraction while in template-inactive neuronal and NAG chromatin all five main histone fractions are present in equal amounts. The total number of RNA initiation sites available for exogenously added homologous RNA polymerase on template-active and -inactive neuronal and NAG chromatin was quantitatively measured under assay conditions completely eliminating reinitiation. Unlike the template-active neuronal and NAG fractions which are differently enriched in RNA initiation sites, transcriptionally more repressed neuronal and NAG fractions demonstrated a minimal ability to initiate RNA synthesis. Under assay conditions allowing repeated initiation of RNA chains at the same initiation site, rat brain RNA polymerase molecules were found to utilize neuronal initiation sites more frequently than NAG ones.", "contents": "Characteristics of transcriptionally active and inactive neuronal and nonastrocytic glial rat brain chromatin fractions. Rapid and reliable fractionation of neuronal and nonastrocytic glial (NAG) cerebral rat brain chromatin in transcribable and repressed portions was achieved employing the DNAase II/Mg++-solubility method of Gottesfeld et al. (1974). Compositional and transcriptional properties of these fractions have been investigated. Compared to transcriptionally repressed fractions, template-active neuronal and NAG chromatin fractions are associated with an increased content of nonhistone chromosomal (NHC-) proteins. Both of the transcribable as well as both of the repressed fractions are strikingly different in their composition as assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Comparative acid urea gel electrophoretic patterns of histones revealed that histone fraction H 1 is almost completely absent in actively transcribed neuronal chromatin and reduced in the corresponding NAG fraction while in template-inactive neuronal and NAG chromatin all five main histone fractions are present in equal amounts. The total number of RNA initiation sites available for exogenously added homologous RNA polymerase on template-active and -inactive neuronal and NAG chromatin was quantitatively measured under assay conditions completely eliminating reinitiation. Unlike the template-active neuronal and NAG fractions which are differently enriched in RNA initiation sites, transcriptionally more repressed neuronal and NAG fractions demonstrated a minimal ability to initiate RNA synthesis. Under assay conditions allowing repeated initiation of RNA chains at the same initiation site, rat brain RNA polymerase molecules were found to utilize neuronal initiation sites more frequently than NAG ones.", "PMID": 436984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3371", "title": "Ascending projections of nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones in the cat.", "content": "Single unit activity has been recorded from nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones in the lumbar spinal cord of chloralose anaesthetized and gallamine paralysed cats. Ninety-four nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones were identified by their superficial location in the dorsal horn and their ability to respond only to noxious stimulation of their cutaneous receptive fields. One-third of the Lamina I neurones responded only to noxious mechanical stimulation of the skin (Class 3a) and two-thirds responded to both mechanical and thermal noxious stimulation (Class 3b). Lissauer's tract was stimulated electrically two and three segments rostral to the recording sites. Ninety percent of the neurones tested showed a post-synaptic excitation mediated by fibres conducting at a mean velocity of 5.2 m/s (range 0.9--13.3 m/s). It is concluded that A delta and C afferent fibres running in Lissauer's tract excite nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones. Ninety-six percent of the neurones tested showed a long period of inhibition (100--200 ms) following stimulation of large afferent fibres in the dorsal column. This inhibition was increased when the intensity of stimulation recruited Lissauer's tract fibres. Fifteen percent of the neurones tested were antidromically activated by Lissauer's tract stimulation from up to 3 segments rostal to their origin. A further 18.5% were antidromically excited by stimulation of deeper tracts. The mean conduction velocity of the axons of these projecting neurones was 8.6 m/s (range 3.8--16.5 m/s) and thus are small myelinated axons. The Class 3b neurones exhibited a significantly lower conduction velocity (7.5 +/- 2.8 (S.D.) m/s) than the Class 3a neurones (10.7 +/- 3.7 (S.D.) m/s). It is concluded that at least two-thirds of the population of nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones are segmental interneurones.", "contents": "Ascending projections of nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones in the cat. Single unit activity has been recorded from nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones in the lumbar spinal cord of chloralose anaesthetized and gallamine paralysed cats. Ninety-four nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones were identified by their superficial location in the dorsal horn and their ability to respond only to noxious stimulation of their cutaneous receptive fields. One-third of the Lamina I neurones responded only to noxious mechanical stimulation of the skin (Class 3a) and two-thirds responded to both mechanical and thermal noxious stimulation (Class 3b). Lissauer's tract was stimulated electrically two and three segments rostral to the recording sites. Ninety percent of the neurones tested showed a post-synaptic excitation mediated by fibres conducting at a mean velocity of 5.2 m/s (range 0.9--13.3 m/s). It is concluded that A delta and C afferent fibres running in Lissauer's tract excite nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones. Ninety-six percent of the neurones tested showed a long period of inhibition (100--200 ms) following stimulation of large afferent fibres in the dorsal column. This inhibition was increased when the intensity of stimulation recruited Lissauer's tract fibres. Fifteen percent of the neurones tested were antidromically activated by Lissauer's tract stimulation from up to 3 segments rostal to their origin. A further 18.5% were antidromically excited by stimulation of deeper tracts. The mean conduction velocity of the axons of these projecting neurones was 8.6 m/s (range 3.8--16.5 m/s) and thus are small myelinated axons. The Class 3b neurones exhibited a significantly lower conduction velocity (7.5 +/- 2.8 (S.D.) m/s) than the Class 3a neurones (10.7 +/- 3.7 (S.D.) m/s). It is concluded that at least two-thirds of the population of nociceptor-driven Lamina I neurones are segmental interneurones.", "PMID": 436985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3372", "title": "Multichannel evoked potential fields show different properties of human upper and lower hemiretina systems.", "content": "Scalp potential fields in human subjects were evoked by checkerboard reversals to the upper and lower hermiretinae, using 1.6 and 3.2 reversals/s. Averaged fields were sampled along a saggital midline row of electrodes (field profiles) in 20 subjects, and from a 47 electrode array (field maps) in five subjects. In five subjects, profile peaks and troughs between 84 and 128 ms latency resided within the recorded electrode row surrounded by lesser potential values, and thus met the evaluation criteria. Response latency defined as maximal voltage difference between two electrodes within the profiles was significantly shorter (medians 12 and 11 ms, respectively) for upper than for lower hemiretina stimuli at both frequencies. There was a significant difference between latencies to 3.2 and 1.6 stimuli/s in the upper but not in the lower hemiretina system, suggesting different system behavior of the two retinal halves. Pertinent anatomical, electrophysiological, and behavioral data are reviewed.", "contents": "Multichannel evoked potential fields show different properties of human upper and lower hemiretina systems. Scalp potential fields in human subjects were evoked by checkerboard reversals to the upper and lower hermiretinae, using 1.6 and 3.2 reversals/s. Averaged fields were sampled along a saggital midline row of electrodes (field profiles) in 20 subjects, and from a 47 electrode array (field maps) in five subjects. In five subjects, profile peaks and troughs between 84 and 128 ms latency resided within the recorded electrode row surrounded by lesser potential values, and thus met the evaluation criteria. Response latency defined as maximal voltage difference between two electrodes within the profiles was significantly shorter (medians 12 and 11 ms, respectively) for upper than for lower hemiretina stimuli at both frequencies. There was a significant difference between latencies to 3.2 and 1.6 stimuli/s in the upper but not in the lower hemiretina system, suggesting different system behavior of the two retinal halves. Pertinent anatomical, electrophysiological, and behavioral data are reviewed.", "PMID": 436986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3373", "title": "Collageless collages - photographic reconstructions, the easy way, of neurons and other extended objects.", "content": "A small, movable aperture placed at or near the K\u00f6hler field diaphragm location of a light microscope permits making composite high contrast, high clarity photographs of objects, such as Golgi stained neurons, whose extensions in depth are greater than the depth of field of the microscope's objective. The technique is described.", "contents": "Collageless collages - photographic reconstructions, the easy way, of neurons and other extended objects. A small, movable aperture placed at or near the K\u00f6hler field diaphragm location of a light microscope permits making composite high contrast, high clarity photographs of objects, such as Golgi stained neurons, whose extensions in depth are greater than the depth of field of the microscope's objective. The technique is described.", "PMID": 436988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3374", "title": "Neurophysiological mechanisms of recovery from visual cortex damage in cats: properties of lateral suprasylvian visual area neurons following behavioral recovery.", "content": "Damage to visual cortical areas 17, 18, and 19 in the cat produces severe and long-lasting deficits in performance of form and pattern discriminations. However, with extensive retraining the animals are able to recover their ability to discriminate form and pattern stimuli. Recent behavioral experiments from this laboratory have shown that a nearby region of cortex, the lateral suprasylvian visual area (LS area), plays an important role in this recovery (Wood et al., 1974; Baumann and Spear, 1977b). The present experiment investigated the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms of the recovery by recording from single neurons in the LS area of cats which had recovered from long-term visual cortex damage. Five adult cats received bilateral removal of areas 17, 18, and 19. They were then trained to criterion on two-choice brightness, form, and pattern discriminations. Recording from LS area neurons was carried out after the behavioral training, from 3 to 7 months after the visual cortex lesions. The properties of these neurons were compared to those of LS area neurons in normal cats (Spear and Baumann, 1975) and in cats with acute or short-term visual cortex damage and no behavioral recovery (Spear and Baumann, 1979). The results showed that all of the changes from normal which were produced by acute visual cortex damage were also present after the behavioral recovery. Moreover, all of the response properties of LS area neurons which remain after acute visual cortex damage were present in similar form after the behavioral recovery. There was no evidence for any functional reorganization in the LS area concomitant with its role in the behavioral recovery. These results suggest that functional reorganization plays little or no role in recovery from visual cortex damage in adult cats. Rather, the recovery of form and pattern discrimination ability appears to be based upon the functioning of residual neural processes in the LS area which remain after the visual cortex damage.", "contents": "Neurophysiological mechanisms of recovery from visual cortex damage in cats: properties of lateral suprasylvian visual area neurons following behavioral recovery. Damage to visual cortical areas 17, 18, and 19 in the cat produces severe and long-lasting deficits in performance of form and pattern discriminations. However, with extensive retraining the animals are able to recover their ability to discriminate form and pattern stimuli. Recent behavioral experiments from this laboratory have shown that a nearby region of cortex, the lateral suprasylvian visual area (LS area), plays an important role in this recovery (Wood et al., 1974; Baumann and Spear, 1977b). The present experiment investigated the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms of the recovery by recording from single neurons in the LS area of cats which had recovered from long-term visual cortex damage. Five adult cats received bilateral removal of areas 17, 18, and 19. They were then trained to criterion on two-choice brightness, form, and pattern discriminations. Recording from LS area neurons was carried out after the behavioral training, from 3 to 7 months after the visual cortex lesions. The properties of these neurons were compared to those of LS area neurons in normal cats (Spear and Baumann, 1975) and in cats with acute or short-term visual cortex damage and no behavioral recovery (Spear and Baumann, 1979). The results showed that all of the changes from normal which were produced by acute visual cortex damage were also present after the behavioral recovery. Moreover, all of the response properties of LS area neurons which remain after acute visual cortex damage were present in similar form after the behavioral recovery. There was no evidence for any functional reorganization in the LS area concomitant with its role in the behavioral recovery. These results suggest that functional reorganization plays little or no role in recovery from visual cortex damage in adult cats. Rather, the recovery of form and pattern discrimination ability appears to be based upon the functioning of residual neural processes in the LS area which remain after the visual cortex damage.", "PMID": 436987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3375", "title": "Polarity-sensitive perceptual adaptation to temporal sawtooth modulation of luminance.", "content": "Exposure to a large uniform field modulated in luminance by a sawtooth function, repeating between 1 and 5 times per second, raised the threshold for detection of a test stimulus of similar waveform by a factor of 2 to 4.5. In comparison, the threshold elevation for a test stimulus of the inverse waveform was only half as great. This polarity-sensitive adaptation fits with Jung's hypothesis that separate channels signal 'brightening' and 'darkening' in the human visual system. Introduction of spatial contrast such as random noise does not affect adaptation to temporal luminance gradients, but does lead to some interocular transfer. The transferred component, however, shows no sensitivity to the polarity of the test stimulus.", "contents": "Polarity-sensitive perceptual adaptation to temporal sawtooth modulation of luminance. Exposure to a large uniform field modulated in luminance by a sawtooth function, repeating between 1 and 5 times per second, raised the threshold for detection of a test stimulus of similar waveform by a factor of 2 to 4.5. In comparison, the threshold elevation for a test stimulus of the inverse waveform was only half as great. This polarity-sensitive adaptation fits with Jung's hypothesis that separate channels signal 'brightening' and 'darkening' in the human visual system. Introduction of spatial contrast such as random noise does not affect adaptation to temporal luminance gradients, but does lead to some interocular transfer. The transferred component, however, shows no sensitivity to the polarity of the test stimulus.", "PMID": 436989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3376", "title": "Isolated catecholaminergic projections from substantia nigra and locus coeruleus to caudate, hippocampus and cerebral cortex formed by intraocular sequential double brain grafts.", "content": "Sequential intraocular grafting of defined areas from fetal rat brain to adult host rats was used to explore the possibility that such double grafts would become interconnected. Norepinephrine- containing neurons of the locus coeruleus were grafted together with either parietal cerebral cortex, hippocampus, or the caudate nucleus. Dopamine-containing neurons of the substantia nigra were transplanted together with either parietal cerebral cortex or the caudate nucleus. The brainstem grafts showed good survival and development in oculo, using both histochemical and electrophysiological criteria. Locus coeruleus neurons were found to innervate cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and the caudate nucleus. Substantia nigra neurons invaded cerebral cortex abundantly, with a terminal distribution typical of cortical DA terminals in situ. The innervation of the caudate nucleus from substantia nigra transplants was variable, but areas of dense confluent terminals were observed. We conclude that sequential brain grafting in oculo permits generation of isolated yet defined catecholaminergic projections, which are suitable for electrophysiological, pharmacological, and histochemical studies.", "contents": "Isolated catecholaminergic projections from substantia nigra and locus coeruleus to caudate, hippocampus and cerebral cortex formed by intraocular sequential double brain grafts. Sequential intraocular grafting of defined areas from fetal rat brain to adult host rats was used to explore the possibility that such double grafts would become interconnected. Norepinephrine- containing neurons of the locus coeruleus were grafted together with either parietal cerebral cortex, hippocampus, or the caudate nucleus. Dopamine-containing neurons of the substantia nigra were transplanted together with either parietal cerebral cortex or the caudate nucleus. The brainstem grafts showed good survival and development in oculo, using both histochemical and electrophysiological criteria. Locus coeruleus neurons were found to innervate cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and the caudate nucleus. Substantia nigra neurons invaded cerebral cortex abundantly, with a terminal distribution typical of cortical DA terminals in situ. The innervation of the caudate nucleus from substantia nigra transplants was variable, but areas of dense confluent terminals were observed. We conclude that sequential brain grafting in oculo permits generation of isolated yet defined catecholaminergic projections, which are suitable for electrophysiological, pharmacological, and histochemical studies.", "PMID": 436990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3377", "title": "The effects of unilateral cortical and tectal lesions on retinal ganglion cells in rats.", "content": "The ganglion cell layer of the retina was examined for retrograde transneuronal degeneration after removing the striate cortex unilaterally in infant or adult rats. No significant degeneration occurred, even after a survival time of 15 months, and the rat is therefore unlike other mammals in which the phenomenon has been studied. A possible explanation that most optic axons bifurcate in rats and that the tectal branch can sustain the ganglion cell after the branch to the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus has degenerated following removal of striate cortex was ruled out by the demonstration that combined unilateral removal of striate cortex and superior colliculus in adults was similarly ineffective. Unilateral removal of the superior colliculus alone also failed to affect ganglion cells of adult rats but produced conspicuous degeneration in infants. The greater vulnerability of the infantile developing visual system casts doubt on the common assumption that the effects of brain damage are less severe in infants than adults.", "contents": "The effects of unilateral cortical and tectal lesions on retinal ganglion cells in rats. The ganglion cell layer of the retina was examined for retrograde transneuronal degeneration after removing the striate cortex unilaterally in infant or adult rats. No significant degeneration occurred, even after a survival time of 15 months, and the rat is therefore unlike other mammals in which the phenomenon has been studied. A possible explanation that most optic axons bifurcate in rats and that the tectal branch can sustain the ganglion cell after the branch to the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus has degenerated following removal of striate cortex was ruled out by the demonstration that combined unilateral removal of striate cortex and superior colliculus in adults was similarly ineffective. Unilateral removal of the superior colliculus alone also failed to affect ganglion cells of adult rats but produced conspicuous degeneration in infants. The greater vulnerability of the infantile developing visual system casts doubt on the common assumption that the effects of brain damage are less severe in infants than adults.", "PMID": 436991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3378", "title": "Development of X- and Y-cells in kittens.", "content": "A contrast reversal stimulus was used to classify the retinal ganglion cells of kittens 3--12 weeks of age. At 3 and 4 weeks of age, the majority of the units were classified as Y-cells. The percentage of X-cells was similar to that of the adult at 5--6 weeks of age although other response properties were not adult-like. The angular size of the receptive field center was significantly larger than that of the adult through 5--6 weeks of age. An estimate of the position of the vertical meridian was obtained from the positions of the receptive fields in the visual field which permitted the calculation of the posterior nodal distance in kittens of various ages. From the posterior nodal distance, the linear extent of the receptive field center was determined. This showed that there is only a very slight increase in the linear size of the receptive field center from 3 weeks to adulthood.", "contents": "Development of X- and Y-cells in kittens. A contrast reversal stimulus was used to classify the retinal ganglion cells of kittens 3--12 weeks of age. At 3 and 4 weeks of age, the majority of the units were classified as Y-cells. The percentage of X-cells was similar to that of the adult at 5--6 weeks of age although other response properties were not adult-like. The angular size of the receptive field center was significantly larger than that of the adult through 5--6 weeks of age. An estimate of the position of the vertical meridian was obtained from the positions of the receptive fields in the visual field which permitted the calculation of the posterior nodal distance in kittens of various ages. From the posterior nodal distance, the linear extent of the receptive field center was determined. This showed that there is only a very slight increase in the linear size of the receptive field center from 3 weeks to adulthood.", "PMID": 436992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3379", "title": "Changes in the retino-fugal pathways following cortical and tectal lesions in neonatal and adult rats.", "content": "Several months after unilateral removal of the striate cortex or superior colliculus, or both, in infant and adult rats the retinal projections were studied autoradiographically. The retinal projection areas in adult-operated animals were not different from those of unoperated controls, but aberrant pathways were found in the infant group. Following removal of striate cortex there was a small aberrant pathway to the lateral posterior nucleus of the thalamus (LP) and possibly to the pretectum. After removal of the superior colliculus there was a conspicuous aberrant projection to LP, which was even more prominent after combined removal of striate cortex and superior colliculus. The results support the proposal that when the normal field of termination is damaged, either directly by a tectal lesion or indirectly by a cortical lesion, axons grow and innervate LP, which has been partly deafferented by the lesion and which consequently possesses vacant synaptic space. Although the different consequences of early and late lesions may indicate that only infantile damaged terminals can redistribute themselves an alternative is that in infants many axons have not yet reached their normal terminal sites at the time of operation and that only those axons have the ability to continue growing and to form an aberrant pathways. The role of the aberrant pathway in vision is unknown.", "contents": "Changes in the retino-fugal pathways following cortical and tectal lesions in neonatal and adult rats. Several months after unilateral removal of the striate cortex or superior colliculus, or both, in infant and adult rats the retinal projections were studied autoradiographically. The retinal projection areas in adult-operated animals were not different from those of unoperated controls, but aberrant pathways were found in the infant group. Following removal of striate cortex there was a small aberrant pathway to the lateral posterior nucleus of the thalamus (LP) and possibly to the pretectum. After removal of the superior colliculus there was a conspicuous aberrant projection to LP, which was even more prominent after combined removal of striate cortex and superior colliculus. The results support the proposal that when the normal field of termination is damaged, either directly by a tectal lesion or indirectly by a cortical lesion, axons grow and innervate LP, which has been partly deafferented by the lesion and which consequently possesses vacant synaptic space. Although the different consequences of early and late lesions may indicate that only infantile damaged terminals can redistribute themselves an alternative is that in infants many axons have not yet reached their normal terminal sites at the time of operation and that only those axons have the ability to continue growing and to form an aberrant pathways. The role of the aberrant pathway in vision is unknown.", "PMID": 436993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3380", "title": "Sounds evoked by brain stimulation in the oyster toadfish Opsanus tau L.", "content": "Various regions in the brains of anesthetized oyster toadfish were electrically stimulated. Temporal properties of evoked sounds formed a continuum from simple to complex. One-to-one responses (one sound pulse for each stimulus pulse) and buzzes, elicited by stimulation in the caudal medulla and cervical spinal cord, were simpler than natural sounds. Natural grunts vary from individual pulses to long variable interval series of pulses called growls. Grunts were elicited by stimulation in the diencephalon, midbrain, medulla, and spinal cord. Evoked grunt pulses varied in duration from short to long and series of grunts varied from individual pulses to bursts approaching a boatwhistle, the courtship call of the male. Boatwhistles were elicited in male as well as in one female fish by stimulation in medullary and midbrain areas. Sites evoking sound production appeared to be part of an integrated system so that boatwhistles and grunts could be evoked from a single stimulation in various parts of the brain.", "contents": "Sounds evoked by brain stimulation in the oyster toadfish Opsanus tau L. Various regions in the brains of anesthetized oyster toadfish were electrically stimulated. Temporal properties of evoked sounds formed a continuum from simple to complex. One-to-one responses (one sound pulse for each stimulus pulse) and buzzes, elicited by stimulation in the caudal medulla and cervical spinal cord, were simpler than natural sounds. Natural grunts vary from individual pulses to long variable interval series of pulses called growls. Grunts were elicited by stimulation in the diencephalon, midbrain, medulla, and spinal cord. Evoked grunt pulses varied in duration from short to long and series of grunts varied from individual pulses to bursts approaching a boatwhistle, the courtship call of the male. Boatwhistles were elicited in male as well as in one female fish by stimulation in medullary and midbrain areas. Sites evoking sound production appeared to be part of an integrated system so that boatwhistles and grunts could be evoked from a single stimulation in various parts of the brain.", "PMID": 436994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3381", "title": "Ingrowth and ramification of retinal fibers in the developing optic tectum of the chick embryo.", "content": "Onset, temporal sequence, and pattern of ingrowth of retinal fibers into the developing optic tectum of the chicken were investigated with histological procedures including the Golgi technique. Invading fibers could first be detected by stage 34 (eight days of incubation) at a specific locus which is the central area of the optic tectum. Compared to other tectal regions the central area is distinguished at this time by its advanced cytoarchitectural development and by the maturation of dendrites of radial cells located within superficial laminae. Immediately after their arrival at the central area some fibers can be observed invading the outer tectal layers and forming side branches. These observations permit the conclusion that fibers do not wait at their termination site for several days, as has been suggested earlier. Retinal axons start to invade the tectum at the site which is most advanced in its structural development. This early maturation of neurons in a specific tectal region might be a sufficient explanation for the central retinal fibers connecting to neurons of this area, which, propter hoc, is called the central tectal area.", "contents": "Ingrowth and ramification of retinal fibers in the developing optic tectum of the chick embryo. Onset, temporal sequence, and pattern of ingrowth of retinal fibers into the developing optic tectum of the chicken were investigated with histological procedures including the Golgi technique. Invading fibers could first be detected by stage 34 (eight days of incubation) at a specific locus which is the central area of the optic tectum. Compared to other tectal regions the central area is distinguished at this time by its advanced cytoarchitectural development and by the maturation of dendrites of radial cells located within superficial laminae. Immediately after their arrival at the central area some fibers can be observed invading the outer tectal layers and forming side branches. These observations permit the conclusion that fibers do not wait at their termination site for several days, as has been suggested earlier. Retinal axons start to invade the tectum at the site which is most advanced in its structural development. This early maturation of neurons in a specific tectal region might be a sufficient explanation for the central retinal fibers connecting to neurons of this area, which, propter hoc, is called the central tectal area.", "PMID": 436995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3382", "title": "The fine structure of neurones and cellular relationships in the abducens nucleus in the cat.", "content": "Light and electron microscope studies of the abducens nucleus in the cat have disclosed two populations of neurones: large neurones 25 to 75 micrometer in diameter and small neurones 10 to 25 micrometer in diameter. Characteristic of the large neurones are a highly developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and a large number of axo-somatic synapses. The small neurones have a poorly developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and comparative by few axo-somatic synapses. Injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into the ipsilateral lateral rectus muscle has been used to identify abducens motoneurones which represent 65% of the total number of cells in the abducens nucleus and form part of the large cell population. The remaining unlabelled large neurones (30% of the large cell population) probably represent motoneurones of the retractor bulbi muscles, abducens motoneurones which have failed to transport the HRP, and possibly internuclear neurones. The small neurones (5% of the total cell population) were never labelled by HRP. Axo-somatic and axo-dendritic synapses are numerous. Many of the synaptic terminals form contacts with two or more different postsynaptic elements. Axo-axonic synapses and synapses on the initial segments of large neurones are also present. Nodal synapses and branching of myelinated axons are common findings. Finally, extended areas of close apposition between dendritic membranes are frequently observed.", "contents": "The fine structure of neurones and cellular relationships in the abducens nucleus in the cat. Light and electron microscope studies of the abducens nucleus in the cat have disclosed two populations of neurones: large neurones 25 to 75 micrometer in diameter and small neurones 10 to 25 micrometer in diameter. Characteristic of the large neurones are a highly developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and a large number of axo-somatic synapses. The small neurones have a poorly developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and comparative by few axo-somatic synapses. Injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into the ipsilateral lateral rectus muscle has been used to identify abducens motoneurones which represent 65% of the total number of cells in the abducens nucleus and form part of the large cell population. The remaining unlabelled large neurones (30% of the large cell population) probably represent motoneurones of the retractor bulbi muscles, abducens motoneurones which have failed to transport the HRP, and possibly internuclear neurones. The small neurones (5% of the total cell population) were never labelled by HRP. Axo-somatic and axo-dendritic synapses are numerous. Many of the synaptic terminals form contacts with two or more different postsynaptic elements. Axo-axonic synapses and synapses on the initial segments of large neurones are also present. Nodal synapses and branching of myelinated axons are common findings. Finally, extended areas of close apposition between dendritic membranes are frequently observed.", "PMID": 436996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3383", "title": "Development of spinal motoneuron innervation of the upper limb muscle in the rat.", "content": "Horseradish peroxidase was injected into the biceps brachii muscle of rats at various stages of development, from 10 days to 50 weeks. The retrogradely labeled neurons were found in the ipsilateral ventro-lateral column of the cervical cord, C4--C8, of all stages studied, but the number of labeled neurons decreased according to exponential curve as the age advanced. A striking finding was that the contralateral ventral horn cells were also labeled in the 10- and 14-day-old rats.", "contents": "Development of spinal motoneuron innervation of the upper limb muscle in the rat. Horseradish peroxidase was injected into the biceps brachii muscle of rats at various stages of development, from 10 days to 50 weeks. The retrogradely labeled neurons were found in the ipsilateral ventro-lateral column of the cervical cord, C4--C8, of all stages studied, but the number of labeled neurons decreased according to exponential curve as the age advanced. A striking finding was that the contralateral ventral horn cells were also labeled in the 10- and 14-day-old rats.", "PMID": 436997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3384", "title": "The morphology of microtubules in incubated synaptosomes. Effect of low temperature and vinblastine.", "content": "A time-dependent rise in the percentage of microtubule-containing synaptosomes was observed reaching a 41--47% peak after 30 min incubation at room temperature (22--25 degrees C) in a saline medium. Fixation at low temperature or incubation with vinblastine decreased markedly the number of synpatosomes containing microtubules. It was concluded that incubation with cations and processing at room temperature were prerequisites of optimal preservation of synaptosomal microtubules. Their spatial orientation relative to the synaptic cleft was deduced from statistical examination of profiles in different orientations.", "contents": "The morphology of microtubules in incubated synaptosomes. Effect of low temperature and vinblastine. A time-dependent rise in the percentage of microtubule-containing synaptosomes was observed reaching a 41--47% peak after 30 min incubation at room temperature (22--25 degrees C) in a saline medium. Fixation at low temperature or incubation with vinblastine decreased markedly the number of synpatosomes containing microtubules. It was concluded that incubation with cations and processing at room temperature were prerequisites of optimal preservation of synaptosomal microtubules. Their spatial orientation relative to the synaptic cleft was deduced from statistical examination of profiles in different orientations.", "PMID": 436998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3385", "title": "Studies on the metal-complex of acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin).", "content": "The present communication deals with the isolation of acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin complexes with Bi+3 Zn+2 and UO2+2. The characterization of 1:2 complexes have been carried out with the help of conductometric, pH met;ric, elemental analysis and IR spectral studies. Spectrophotometric studies in case of UO2+2 (the only colored complex) in range of 4.2 to 5.5 pH show absorption at 490 nm and complex obey Beers Law at the concentration range of 0.01 M to 0.1 M.", "contents": "Studies on the metal-complex of acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin). The present communication deals with the isolation of acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin complexes with Bi+3 Zn+2 and UO2+2. The characterization of 1:2 complexes have been carried out with the help of conductometric, pH met;ric, elemental analysis and IR spectral studies. Spectrophotometric studies in case of UO2+2 (the only colored complex) in range of 4.2 to 5.5 pH show absorption at 490 nm and complex obey Beers Law at the concentration range of 0.01 M to 0.1 M.", "PMID": 437021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3386", "title": "Transition metals in an experimental tumour system.", "content": "In this report we present an analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry of some of the transition metals Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Co, and Ni in tissues and nuclear fractions in an experimental tumour system.", "contents": "Transition metals in an experimental tumour system. In this report we present an analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry of some of the transition metals Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Co, and Ni in tissues and nuclear fractions in an experimental tumour system.", "PMID": 437022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3387", "title": "Distribution of repetitive DNA sequences in the polytene chromosomes of Rhynchosciara americana.", "content": "The distribution of fast, intermediate and slow renaturing fractions of Rhynchosciara americana DNA was examined in the polytene salivary gland chromosomes by in situ hybridization. Heterochromatic areas readily hybridized but hybrid formation in the euchromatin depended more on the repetitiveness of the RNA probe.", "contents": "Distribution of repetitive DNA sequences in the polytene chromosomes of Rhynchosciara americana. The distribution of fast, intermediate and slow renaturing fractions of Rhynchosciara americana DNA was examined in the polytene salivary gland chromosomes by in situ hybridization. Heterochromatic areas readily hybridized but hybrid formation in the euchromatin depended more on the repetitiveness of the RNA probe.", "PMID": 437024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3388", "title": "Karyotype and DNA content of Pharctolaemus ansorgei Blgr. (Teleostei: Gonorynchifomes).", "content": "The diploid DNA content of Pharctolaemus ansorgei spinosus (Phractolaemidae) is estimated by Feulgen cytophotometry at 3 pg. The karyotype has 28 chromosomes and 54 chromosome arms; it significantly resembles the karyotype of Chanos chanos (Chanidae).", "contents": "Karyotype and DNA content of Pharctolaemus ansorgei Blgr. (Teleostei: Gonorynchifomes). The diploid DNA content of Pharctolaemus ansorgei spinosus (Phractolaemidae) is estimated by Feulgen cytophotometry at 3 pg. The karyotype has 28 chromosomes and 54 chromosome arms; it significantly resembles the karyotype of Chanos chanos (Chanidae).", "PMID": 437025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3389", "title": "Biodegradability of Tioctilate.", "content": "The biodegradability of Tioctilate (octylthiobenzoate), a new pesticide, has been examined by means of 5 tests. The compound appears to be susceptible to microbial metabolism.", "contents": "Biodegradability of Tioctilate. The biodegradability of Tioctilate (octylthiobenzoate), a new pesticide, has been examined by means of 5 tests. The compound appears to be susceptible to microbial metabolism.", "PMID": 437026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3390", "title": "[Effect of sodium ribonucleate on the growth and the hemolytic activity of Treponema hyodysenteriae].", "content": "Liquid cultures of different strains of Treponema hyodysenteriae, when supplemented with sodium ribonucleate show an increase in the hemolytic activity titers while the number of colony forming units remain constant.", "contents": "[Effect of sodium ribonucleate on the growth and the hemolytic activity of Treponema hyodysenteriae]. Liquid cultures of different strains of Treponema hyodysenteriae, when supplemented with sodium ribonucleate show an increase in the hemolytic activity titers while the number of colony forming units remain constant.", "PMID": 437027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3391", "title": "Increased activity of the ribosomal dissociation factor in the pre-replicative phase of liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy.", "content": "The activity of the ribosomal dissociation factor and the formation in vitro of free 60S and 40S subunits increased in the first 12--48 h after partial hepatectomy. This suggests an accelerated reconversion into active subunits of ribosomes that complete a translation cycle in the early phases of liver regeneration.", "contents": "Increased activity of the ribosomal dissociation factor in the pre-replicative phase of liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy. The activity of the ribosomal dissociation factor and the formation in vitro of free 60S and 40S subunits increased in the first 12--48 h after partial hepatectomy. This suggests an accelerated reconversion into active subunits of ribosomes that complete a translation cycle in the early phases of liver regeneration.", "PMID": 437028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3392", "title": "Degradation of bacterial lipopolysaccharide by gut juice os the snail Helix pomatia.", "content": "Lipopolysaccharides from several bacteria were selectively degarded by gut juice of the snail Helix pomatia with extensive loss of anticomplementary activity and changes in the electrophoretic pattern in polyacrylamide gels. The gut juice had little effect on ketodeoxyoctonate content or immunodominant sugars. The lipid A moiety of the lipopolysaccharide appeared to be the main site of attack.", "contents": "Degradation of bacterial lipopolysaccharide by gut juice os the snail Helix pomatia. Lipopolysaccharides from several bacteria were selectively degarded by gut juice of the snail Helix pomatia with extensive loss of anticomplementary activity and changes in the electrophoretic pattern in polyacrylamide gels. The gut juice had little effect on ketodeoxyoctonate content or immunodominant sugars. The lipid A moiety of the lipopolysaccharide appeared to be the main site of attack.", "PMID": 437029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3393", "title": "Thiamin turnover rate in some areas of rat brain and liver: a preliminary note.", "content": "Thiamin turnover rates in some nervous structures and liver of rats were evaluated in a steady state condition, using thiamin- 14C as a tracer. The radioactivity contents were analyzed by means of a mamillary type compartmental model. Excluding the liver, turnover rate values of the nervous structures were ordered in the following sequence: sciatic nerve (0.58 microgram/g . h) less than cerebellum less than hypothalamus less than midbrain less than corpus striatum less than cerebral cortex (0.16 microgram/g . h).", "contents": "Thiamin turnover rate in some areas of rat brain and liver: a preliminary note. Thiamin turnover rates in some nervous structures and liver of rats were evaluated in a steady state condition, using thiamin- 14C as a tracer. The radioactivity contents were analyzed by means of a mamillary type compartmental model. Excluding the liver, turnover rate values of the nervous structures were ordered in the following sequence: sciatic nerve (0.58 microgram/g . h) less than cerebellum less than hypothalamus less than midbrain less than corpus striatum less than cerebral cortex (0.16 microgram/g . h).", "PMID": 437030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3394", "title": "Oscillatory after-potentials and triggered-automaticity in mammalian ventricular muscle fibres at high resting potentials.", "content": "Oscillatory after-potentials and triggered-automaticity were observed in dog ventricular muscle fibres when the fibres were exposed to K+-free,high-Ca++-solutions after K+-free,Ca++-free perfusion. They appeared at membrane potentials more negative than--60 m V.", "contents": "Oscillatory after-potentials and triggered-automaticity in mammalian ventricular muscle fibres at high resting potentials. Oscillatory after-potentials and triggered-automaticity were observed in dog ventricular muscle fibres when the fibres were exposed to K+-free,high-Ca++-solutions after K+-free,Ca++-free perfusion. They appeared at membrane potentials more negative than--60 m V.", "PMID": 437031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3395", "title": "A simple method for observation of capillary nets in rat brain cortex.", "content": "By the authors' technic, the profiles of capillaries in rat brain cortex were clearly demonstrated. The capillaries formed complicated nets by sprouting of their finer branches and anastomosing with each other. Further, a kind of perivascular cells with yellow autofluorescent granules was distributed close to capillaries, arterioles or venules. The seemed to be a special form of macrophage in the brain cortex.", "contents": "A simple method for observation of capillary nets in rat brain cortex. By the authors' technic, the profiles of capillaries in rat brain cortex were clearly demonstrated. The capillaries formed complicated nets by sprouting of their finer branches and anastomosing with each other. Further, a kind of perivascular cells with yellow autofluorescent granules was distributed close to capillaries, arterioles or venules. The seemed to be a special form of macrophage in the brain cortex.", "PMID": 437032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3396", "title": "Experimental data on the neurotoxicity of methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK).", "content": "A severe potentiating effects of methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK) on the peripheral and central neurotoxicity of n-hexane could be demonstrated in a chronic inhalation study in rats.", "contents": "Experimental data on the neurotoxicity of methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK). A severe potentiating effects of methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK) on the peripheral and central neurotoxicity of n-hexane could be demonstrated in a chronic inhalation study in rats.", "PMID": 437033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3397", "title": "Sexually dimorphic response of the mouse submandibular gland to fasting.", "content": "The submandibular gland of male mice contained 18% more DNA, 34% more RNA and 63% more protein than that of female mice. After a 48-h fasting, the percent loss of gland weight, protein, RNA and DNA was greater in the female than in the male.", "contents": "Sexually dimorphic response of the mouse submandibular gland to fasting. The submandibular gland of male mice contained 18% more DNA, 34% more RNA and 63% more protein than that of female mice. After a 48-h fasting, the percent loss of gland weight, protein, RNA and DNA was greater in the female than in the male.", "PMID": 437034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3398", "title": "Movements of supernumerary hindlimbs after innervation by single lumbar spinal nerves of Xenopus laevis.", "content": "Lumbar spinal nerves S8, S9, and S10, together innervating normal hindlimbs in Xenopus laevis, were tested to cause coordinated movements in grafted hindlimbs. It could be shown that this ability is mainly restricted to lumbar nerve S9.", "contents": "Movements of supernumerary hindlimbs after innervation by single lumbar spinal nerves of Xenopus laevis. Lumbar spinal nerves S8, S9, and S10, together innervating normal hindlimbs in Xenopus laevis, were tested to cause coordinated movements in grafted hindlimbs. It could be shown that this ability is mainly restricted to lumbar nerve S9.", "PMID": 437035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3399", "title": "Effect of pylorus ligation on gastric mucosal mast cell population in normal and adrenalectomised albino rats.", "content": "Pylorus ligation in normal albino rats acts like a stressor leading to degranulation of mast cells in gastric mucosa, thereby decreasing their number. This decrease is less pronounced when pylorus ligation is done in adrenalectomized rats. This implies that action of a stressor on gastric function involves the adrenal steroids which liberate the powerful gastric stimulant histamine from gastric mucosal mast cells.", "contents": "Effect of pylorus ligation on gastric mucosal mast cell population in normal and adrenalectomised albino rats. Pylorus ligation in normal albino rats acts like a stressor leading to degranulation of mast cells in gastric mucosa, thereby decreasing their number. This decrease is less pronounced when pylorus ligation is done in adrenalectomized rats. This implies that action of a stressor on gastric function involves the adrenal steroids which liberate the powerful gastric stimulant histamine from gastric mucosal mast cells.", "PMID": 437036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3400", "title": "The influence of the sex-hormone testosterone on body temperature and metabolism of the male Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).", "content": "Testosterone causes a significant body temperature decrease in male quails. Oxygen consumption/g b. wt remains the same, however.", "contents": "The influence of the sex-hormone testosterone on body temperature and metabolism of the male Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Testosterone causes a significant body temperature decrease in male quails. Oxygen consumption/g b. wt remains the same, however.", "PMID": 437037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3401", "title": "Effects of isoproterenol and dopamine on the myocardial hexose monophosphate shunt.", "content": "Long-term exposure of rats to isoproterenol and dopamine resulted in an increase of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and a greater availability of 5-phosphoribosyl-l-pyrophosphate in the myocardium. These results are interpreted to indicate an enhanced flow through the hexose monophosphate shunt.", "contents": "Effects of isoproterenol and dopamine on the myocardial hexose monophosphate shunt. Long-term exposure of rats to isoproterenol and dopamine resulted in an increase of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and a greater availability of 5-phosphoribosyl-l-pyrophosphate in the myocardium. These results are interpreted to indicate an enhanced flow through the hexose monophosphate shunt.", "PMID": 437038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3402", "title": "Baroreceptor function changed by breathing.", "content": "The efferent sympathetic activity (ESA) of the carotid nerve is related to breathing, and can be driven by stimulation of the latter, e.g. by airway occlusion. The ESA controls both carotid wall stiffness and the excitability of nervous receptor elements. Therefore, breathing is capable of changing the carotid baroreceptor function.", "contents": "Baroreceptor function changed by breathing. The efferent sympathetic activity (ESA) of the carotid nerve is related to breathing, and can be driven by stimulation of the latter, e.g. by airway occlusion. The ESA controls both carotid wall stiffness and the excitability of nervous receptor elements. Therefore, breathing is capable of changing the carotid baroreceptor function.", "PMID": 437039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3403", "title": "Brominated benzene induction of hepatic porphyria.", "content": "Unlike the highly porphyrinogenic fungicide hexachlorobenzene, hexabromobenzene was a poor inducer of porphyria. Similarly, 1,2-dibromobenzene and 1,2,4-tribromobenzene, while causing small increases in hepatic porphyrins, did not increase ALA synthetase or the urinary excretion of porphobilinogen (PBG), aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or porphyrins.", "contents": "Brominated benzene induction of hepatic porphyria. Unlike the highly porphyrinogenic fungicide hexachlorobenzene, hexabromobenzene was a poor inducer of porphyria. Similarly, 1,2-dibromobenzene and 1,2,4-tribromobenzene, while causing small increases in hepatic porphyrins, did not increase ALA synthetase or the urinary excretion of porphobilinogen (PBG), aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or porphyrins.", "PMID": 437040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3404", "title": "Nerve growth factor selectively stimulates the degradation of chondromucoprotein in the embryonic cartilage in vitro.", "content": "Nerve growth factor specifically stimulates the degradation of chondromucoprotein in the chick embryonic cartilage cultivated in vitro, with little effect on chondromucoprotein, RNA, DNA and protein synthesis.", "contents": "Nerve growth factor selectively stimulates the degradation of chondromucoprotein in the embryonic cartilage in vitro. Nerve growth factor specifically stimulates the degradation of chondromucoprotein in the chick embryonic cartilage cultivated in vitro, with little effect on chondromucoprotein, RNA, DNA and protein synthesis.", "PMID": 437042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3405", "title": "Lead metabolism in lactation.", "content": "A 2-fold increase in lead absorption was observed in lactating animals which received 2 mg Pb/l in drinking water. About one-half of the absorbed lead was transferred to the litters.", "contents": "Lead metabolism in lactation. A 2-fold increase in lead absorption was observed in lactating animals which received 2 mg Pb/l in drinking water. About one-half of the absorbed lead was transferred to the litters.", "PMID": 437043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3406", "title": "Transdermal uptake of a peptide hormone: inhibition by calcitonin eardrops of induced osteolysis in guinea-pig ossicles.", "content": "In view of a recent proposal that calcitonin injections may arrest the bony pathology of otosclerosis, we have tested the possibility of obtaining locally effective concentrations by giving salmon calcitonin in eardrops. Osteolysis of guinea-pig ossicles induced by injecting parathyroid hormone shortly before explantation was markedly inhibited by 3 days prior instillation of the calcitonin in an aqueous vehicle or in dimethyl sulphoxide, but not by a solution in propylene carbonate.", "contents": "Transdermal uptake of a peptide hormone: inhibition by calcitonin eardrops of induced osteolysis in guinea-pig ossicles. In view of a recent proposal that calcitonin injections may arrest the bony pathology of otosclerosis, we have tested the possibility of obtaining locally effective concentrations by giving salmon calcitonin in eardrops. Osteolysis of guinea-pig ossicles induced by injecting parathyroid hormone shortly before explantation was markedly inhibited by 3 days prior instillation of the calcitonin in an aqueous vehicle or in dimethyl sulphoxide, but not by a solution in propylene carbonate.", "PMID": 437044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3407", "title": "Preliminary report on toxigenic fungal isolates of Aspergillus niger in market foods and foodstuffs.", "content": "14 out of 22 fungal isolates of A. niger from market foods and foodstuffs were toxigenic to weanling rats. Approximately 2/3 of these cultures were highly toxigenic. Histopathologic changes were observed mostly in kidney with necrosis of the tubular epithelium and to a less extent in liver with centrolobular necrosis of the hepatic cells.", "contents": "Preliminary report on toxigenic fungal isolates of Aspergillus niger in market foods and foodstuffs. 14 out of 22 fungal isolates of A. niger from market foods and foodstuffs were toxigenic to weanling rats. Approximately 2/3 of these cultures were highly toxigenic. Histopathologic changes were observed mostly in kidney with necrosis of the tubular epithelium and to a less extent in liver with centrolobular necrosis of the hepatic cells.", "PMID": 437045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3408", "title": "Levamisole inhibits mineral mobilisation, lactate production and lysosomal enzyme release from cultured bones.", "content": "Levamisole added to cultured calvarial bones inhibited spontaneous bone resorption, as indicated by reduced release of calcium and inorganic phosphate to the medium. In addition, levamisole reduced lactate production and release of lysosomal enzymes.", "contents": "Levamisole inhibits mineral mobilisation, lactate production and lysosomal enzyme release from cultured bones. Levamisole added to cultured calvarial bones inhibited spontaneous bone resorption, as indicated by reduced release of calcium and inorganic phosphate to the medium. In addition, levamisole reduced lactate production and release of lysosomal enzymes.", "PMID": 437047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3409", "title": "Penetration of oximes across the blood-brain barrier. A histochemical study of the cerebral cholinesterases reactivation.", "content": "The comparison of the effects of 4 oximes upon the cerebral cholinesterases reactivation after intoxication with paraoxon shows that the best results are obtained with toxogonine and 1574 [(carbaldoxime-4 pyridinium)-1(methyl-1 imidazolium-3)-3 propane]. The reactivation power of this latter compound seems due to the ease with which it can pass through the blood-brain barrier.", "contents": "Penetration of oximes across the blood-brain barrier. A histochemical study of the cerebral cholinesterases reactivation. The comparison of the effects of 4 oximes upon the cerebral cholinesterases reactivation after intoxication with paraoxon shows that the best results are obtained with toxogonine and 1574 [(carbaldoxime-4 pyridinium)-1(methyl-1 imidazolium-3)-3 propane]. The reactivation power of this latter compound seems due to the ease with which it can pass through the blood-brain barrier.", "PMID": 437048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3410", "title": "Lysosomal enzymes in the juxtaglomerular cell granules.", "content": "In addition to the already known acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase, 2 other lysosomal enzymes: aryl sulphatase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase were localized by histochemical methods in the renin-containing granules of the mouse juxtaglomerular cells.", "contents": "Lysosomal enzymes in the juxtaglomerular cell granules. In addition to the already known acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase, 2 other lysosomal enzymes: aryl sulphatase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase were localized by histochemical methods in the renin-containing granules of the mouse juxtaglomerular cells.", "PMID": 437049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3411", "title": "Ultrastructural study of somatotroph cells from mice bearing a fast growing transplanted hepatoma, in different periods of the tumor development.", "content": "The presence of a transplanted, fast-growing hepatoma (SS1-K) produces conspicuous ultrastructural changes in pituitary STH cells of C3H-S male mice. These changes are suggestive of an increased secretion of growth hormone only during the first stages of the tumor development. The hepatoma influence does not seem to be clearly related to the illumination regimen or time of killing.", "contents": "Ultrastructural study of somatotroph cells from mice bearing a fast growing transplanted hepatoma, in different periods of the tumor development. The presence of a transplanted, fast-growing hepatoma (SS1-K) produces conspicuous ultrastructural changes in pituitary STH cells of C3H-S male mice. These changes are suggestive of an increased secretion of growth hormone only during the first stages of the tumor development. The hepatoma influence does not seem to be clearly related to the illumination regimen or time of killing.", "PMID": 437050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3412", "title": "Effect of synthetic polynucleotides on the growth of transplantable tumours in BALB/c mice.", "content": "The effect of BALB/c mice pretreatment with tumour cells (a mammary adenocarcinoma, ADK-1t and an IgA secreting plasmocytoma, MOPC-315) adsorbed with poly I:C, poly I and poly C is examined. Only mice pretreated with cells of both tumours adsorbed with poly I:C and poly C proved to be extensively protected against challenge by homologous untreated tumour cells, whereas this was not so in the case of poly I. A possible explanation of this phenomenon is discussed.", "contents": "Effect of synthetic polynucleotides on the growth of transplantable tumours in BALB/c mice. The effect of BALB/c mice pretreatment with tumour cells (a mammary adenocarcinoma, ADK-1t and an IgA secreting plasmocytoma, MOPC-315) adsorbed with poly I:C, poly I and poly C is examined. Only mice pretreated with cells of both tumours adsorbed with poly I:C and poly C proved to be extensively protected against challenge by homologous untreated tumour cells, whereas this was not so in the case of poly I. A possible explanation of this phenomenon is discussed.", "PMID": 437051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3413", "title": "Uptake of exogenous protein by supraependymal cells of the feline area postrema.", "content": "Supraependymal cells occurring on the surface of the feline area postrema were examined for phagocytic ability. It was shown that they could ingest exogenous horseradish peroxidase that was experimentally introduced into the brain ventricular system. The cells thus bear functional as well as ultrastructural attributes of macrophages, similar to those found in the third ventricle and subarachnoid space.", "contents": "Uptake of exogenous protein by supraependymal cells of the feline area postrema. Supraependymal cells occurring on the surface of the feline area postrema were examined for phagocytic ability. It was shown that they could ingest exogenous horseradish peroxidase that was experimentally introduced into the brain ventricular system. The cells thus bear functional as well as ultrastructural attributes of macrophages, similar to those found in the third ventricle and subarachnoid space.", "PMID": 437052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3414", "title": "X-irradiation of mice in early fetal period influences dose-dependently sex ratio of offspring until weaning.", "content": "Fractionated X-irradiation of mouse fetuses on gestation days 11-13 resulted in a significantly increased postnatal mortality of female litters. This occurred only at 3 x 110 rad, which was the threshold for the formation of typical neuroepithelial, rosette-like malformations.", "contents": "X-irradiation of mice in early fetal period influences dose-dependently sex ratio of offspring until weaning. Fractionated X-irradiation of mouse fetuses on gestation days 11-13 resulted in a significantly increased postnatal mortality of female litters. This occurred only at 3 x 110 rad, which was the threshold for the formation of typical neuroepithelial, rosette-like malformations.", "PMID": 437053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3415", "title": "Follicles development in the foetal human ovary.", "content": "In the foetal human ovary, diameters of oocyte and follicle, as well as those of oocyte and nucleus, are found to be positively and linearly correlated with each other. Follicle diameter and number of granulosa cells also show a positive and linear relationship. Finally, in all ovaries examined, from 5 months after conception onwards, small antral follicles were assessed.", "contents": "Follicles development in the foetal human ovary. In the foetal human ovary, diameters of oocyte and follicle, as well as those of oocyte and nucleus, are found to be positively and linearly correlated with each other. Follicle diameter and number of granulosa cells also show a positive and linear relationship. Finally, in all ovaries examined, from 5 months after conception onwards, small antral follicles were assessed.", "PMID": 437054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3416", "title": "Preparative separation of nucleated cells from human bone marrow.", "content": "A comparison has been made between the separation of nucleated cells from human bone marrow aspirates by high mol. wt polymers and the buffy coat techniques.", "contents": "Preparative separation of nucleated cells from human bone marrow. A comparison has been made between the separation of nucleated cells from human bone marrow aspirates by high mol. wt polymers and the buffy coat techniques.", "PMID": 437055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3417", "title": "Evidence for synergism in steroid hormone-receptor association.", "content": "A number of glucocorticoids stimulated oestradiol binding to liver cytosol receptor; oestradiol activated glucocorticoid receptor association at a time when it reversed triamcinolone mediated increase in liver glycogen synthesis.", "contents": "Evidence for synergism in steroid hormone-receptor association. A number of glucocorticoids stimulated oestradiol binding to liver cytosol receptor; oestradiol activated glucocorticoid receptor association at a time when it reversed triamcinolone mediated increase in liver glycogen synthesis.", "PMID": 437056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3418", "title": "Estrogen action in the male.", "content": "Estrogen administration induces a migration of eosinophil leukocytes to ductus deferens.", "contents": "Estrogen action in the male. Estrogen administration induces a migration of eosinophil leukocytes to ductus deferens.", "PMID": 437057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3419", "title": "Influence of light on the plasma gonadotropin concentrations in the newborn rat.", "content": "The physiological increase in plasma gonadotropin (LH and FSH) levels in newborn rats is indisputably influenced by light. Permanent illumination accentuates this increase, whereas darkness decreases it in 16-day-old female rats. In male rats of the same age, only permanent illumination was tested with the same results.", "contents": "Influence of light on the plasma gonadotropin concentrations in the newborn rat. The physiological increase in plasma gonadotropin (LH and FSH) levels in newborn rats is indisputably influenced by light. Permanent illumination accentuates this increase, whereas darkness decreases it in 16-day-old female rats. In male rats of the same age, only permanent illumination was tested with the same results.", "PMID": 437058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3420", "title": "Colchicine-estrogen interactions.", "content": "Colchicine does not block estrogen-induced recognition of uterine blood vessel surface by eosinophils, but interfers with their migration through endothelial lining and therefore blocks estrogen-induced uterine eosinophilia and edema.", "contents": "Colchicine-estrogen interactions. Colchicine does not block estrogen-induced recognition of uterine blood vessel surface by eosinophils, but interfers with their migration through endothelial lining and therefore blocks estrogen-induced uterine eosinophilia and edema.", "PMID": 437059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3421", "title": "Allotransplantation of rat parathyroid glands: effects of organ culture and transplantation into the adrenal gland.", "content": "Allotransplantation of fresh, 1 or 2 week cultured parathyroid glands from Wistar rats (AgB2) to Fischer rats (AgB1) resulted in prompt rejection of the transplant in the muscle site; whereas transplantation into the adrenal site offered slightly prolonged survival, suggesting that the latter is a privileged transplantation site.", "contents": "Allotransplantation of rat parathyroid glands: effects of organ culture and transplantation into the adrenal gland. Allotransplantation of fresh, 1 or 2 week cultured parathyroid glands from Wistar rats (AgB2) to Fischer rats (AgB1) resulted in prompt rejection of the transplant in the muscle site; whereas transplantation into the adrenal site offered slightly prolonged survival, suggesting that the latter is a privileged transplantation site.", "PMID": 437060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3422", "title": "Thyroid morphology and activity does not respond to ELF electromagnetic field exposures.", "content": "The hypothesis that the thyroid is the sensitive organ for extremely low freqency electromagnetic field effects was tested. Rats that had been exposed either preinatally or as adults to several intensities of 0.5 Hz magnetic fields displayed no significant alterations in thyroid morphology or circulating hormone measures.", "contents": "Thyroid morphology and activity does not respond to ELF electromagnetic field exposures. The hypothesis that the thyroid is the sensitive organ for extremely low freqency electromagnetic field effects was tested. Rats that had been exposed either preinatally or as adults to several intensities of 0.5 Hz magnetic fields displayed no significant alterations in thyroid morphology or circulating hormone measures.", "PMID": 437061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3423", "title": "Sertoli cells of adult rats in vitro. II. Effect of different steroid precursors on estradiol 17 beta-synthesis.", "content": "The estradiol 17 beta-synthesis by delta 4 pathway has been studied in homogenous cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from adult rat testes. The data reported clearly demonstrate that progesterone, androstenedione, testosterone and estrone induce an increase of the estradiol 17 beta-production.", "contents": "Sertoli cells of adult rats in vitro. II. Effect of different steroid precursors on estradiol 17 beta-synthesis. The estradiol 17 beta-synthesis by delta 4 pathway has been studied in homogenous cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from adult rat testes. The data reported clearly demonstrate that progesterone, androstenedione, testosterone and estrone induce an increase of the estradiol 17 beta-production.", "PMID": 437062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3424", "title": "Theoretical prediction of carcinogenicity: quasi-quantification by quasi-valence.", "content": "We have shown the recently proposed method for prediction of carcinogenicity by \"average quasi-valence number\" to be neither a good predictor of carcinogenicity, nor of non-carcinogenicity.", "contents": "Theoretical prediction of carcinogenicity: quasi-quantification by quasi-valence. We have shown the recently proposed method for prediction of carcinogenicity by \"average quasi-valence number\" to be neither a good predictor of carcinogenicity, nor of non-carcinogenicity.", "PMID": 437063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3425", "title": "Simple theoretical criterion of chemical carcinogenicity - a refutation.", "content": "The quasi-valence number criterion for chemical carcinogenicity has been shown, through several examples, to be untenable.", "contents": "Simple theoretical criterion of chemical carcinogenicity - a refutation. The quasi-valence number criterion for chemical carcinogenicity has been shown, through several examples, to be untenable.", "PMID": 437064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3426", "title": "A rapid micro radial electrophoretic method of protein separation on cellulose acetate membranes.", "content": "A new rapid micromethod for protein separation under a radial electric field is described. As many as 12 rabbit serum samples could be separated in 4--6 min.", "contents": "A rapid micro radial electrophoretic method of protein separation on cellulose acetate membranes. A new rapid micromethod for protein separation under a radial electric field is described. As many as 12 rabbit serum samples could be separated in 4--6 min.", "PMID": 437065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3427", "title": "Circumplex model of marital and family systems: III. Empirical evaluation with families.", "content": "This study was designed to test the circumplex model of family systems that hypothesizes moderate family cohesion and moderate adaptability to be more functional than either extreme. Thirty-one Catholic family triads with daughters ranging in age from 14 to 17 years participated in a structured family interaction game (SIMFAM) and filled out questionnaires that measured the variables of cohesion and adaptability and the facilitative variables of support and creativity. All families were considered normal but were subdivided into those that had more and less difficulty with this adolescent. Analysis of the data yielded considerable support for the circumplex model. High family functioning was associated with moderate family cohesion and adaptability, and low family functioning had extreme scores on these dimensions. As predicted, high family support and creativity were also related to high family functioning. Implications of these findings for family therapy are discussed.", "contents": "Circumplex model of marital and family systems: III. Empirical evaluation with families. This study was designed to test the circumplex model of family systems that hypothesizes moderate family cohesion and moderate adaptability to be more functional than either extreme. Thirty-one Catholic family triads with daughters ranging in age from 14 to 17 years participated in a structured family interaction game (SIMFAM) and filled out questionnaires that measured the variables of cohesion and adaptability and the facilitative variables of support and creativity. All families were considered normal but were subdivided into those that had more and less difficulty with this adolescent. Analysis of the data yielded considerable support for the circumplex model. High family functioning was associated with moderate family cohesion and adaptability, and low family functioning had extreme scores on these dimensions. As predicted, high family support and creativity were also related to high family functioning. Implications of these findings for family therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 437066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3428", "title": "Circumplex model of marital and family system: I. Cohesion and adaptability dimensions, family types, and clinical applications.", "content": "The conceptual clustering of numerous concepts from family therapy and other social science fields reveals two significant dimensions of family behavior, cohesion and adaptability. These two dimensions are placed into a circumplex model that is used to identify 16 types of marital and family systems. The model proposes that a balanced level of both cohesion and adaptability is the most functional to marital and family development. It postulates the need for a balance on the cohesion dimension between too much closeness (which leads to enmeshed systems) and too little closeness (which leads to disengaged systems). There also needs to be a balance on the adaptability dimension between too much change (which leads to chaotic systems) and too little change (which leads to rigid systems). The model was developed as a tool for clinical diagnosis and for specifying treatment goals with couples and families.", "contents": "Circumplex model of marital and family system: I. Cohesion and adaptability dimensions, family types, and clinical applications. The conceptual clustering of numerous concepts from family therapy and other social science fields reveals two significant dimensions of family behavior, cohesion and adaptability. These two dimensions are placed into a circumplex model that is used to identify 16 types of marital and family systems. The model proposes that a balanced level of both cohesion and adaptability is the most functional to marital and family development. It postulates the need for a balance on the cohesion dimension between too much closeness (which leads to enmeshed systems) and too little closeness (which leads to disengaged systems). There also needs to be a balance on the adaptability dimension between too much change (which leads to chaotic systems) and too little change (which leads to rigid systems). The model was developed as a tool for clinical diagnosis and for specifying treatment goals with couples and families.", "PMID": 437067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3429", "title": "Task effects in family interaction.", "content": "The effect of different experimental tasks on emergent patterns of family activity, conflict, and influence was assessed by means of multivariate analysis procedures on a sample of 30 family triads. Although a task effect did emerge for the family activity measure, the overall pattern of findings indicates marked consistency in family interaction across the three experimental tasks. Findings are discussed in terms of methodological and theoretical explanations that could account for obtained results.", "contents": "Task effects in family interaction. The effect of different experimental tasks on emergent patterns of family activity, conflict, and influence was assessed by means of multivariate analysis procedures on a sample of 30 family triads. Although a task effect did emerge for the family activity measure, the overall pattern of findings indicates marked consistency in family interaction across the three experimental tasks. Findings are discussed in terms of methodological and theoretical explanations that could account for obtained results.", "PMID": 437068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3430", "title": "Role structure and subculture in families of elective mutists.", "content": "This study of ten case records points to a common role structure and subculture in families of elective mutists. The paper describes a theory of treatment based on breaking down the family's distrust of the outer world before social training of the identified patient is started.", "contents": "Role structure and subculture in families of elective mutists. This study of ten case records points to a common role structure and subculture in families of elective mutists. The paper describes a theory of treatment based on breaking down the family's distrust of the outer world before social training of the identified patient is started.", "PMID": 437069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3431", "title": "Marital conflict and marital intimacy: an integrative psychodynamic-behavioral-systemic model.", "content": "A conceptual model of some of the intrapsychic and interpersonal forces that stimulate and maintain repetitive, nonproductive marital conflict behavior is presented. In this model, concepts derived from psychoanalytic and social-learning theory and integrated within a family systems framework. Implications for conjoint therapy with conflictual couples are discussed.", "contents": "Marital conflict and marital intimacy: an integrative psychodynamic-behavioral-systemic model. A conceptual model of some of the intrapsychic and interpersonal forces that stimulate and maintain repetitive, nonproductive marital conflict behavior is presented. In this model, concepts derived from psychoanalytic and social-learning theory and integrated within a family systems framework. Implications for conjoint therapy with conflictual couples are discussed.", "PMID": 437070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3432", "title": "The corporate executive wife's coping patterns in response to routine husband-father absence.", "content": "The routine absence of corporate executive husband/fathers in intact families is a variation of father absence. Though not prolonged, frequent exits and reentries may stress the family system. To determine how nonclinical family members deal with routine father absence, a coping inventory was administered to 66 corporate wives. Factor analysis revealed wives coped with the stress of routine father absence by (a) fitting into the corporate lifestyle; (b) developing self; and (c) establishing independence. Though a pilot study, findings offer empirical support for a premise more traditionally accepted by family therapists than by family sociologists: Individual psychological variables need to be considered along with systems variables in the development of family stress theory.", "contents": "The corporate executive wife's coping patterns in response to routine husband-father absence. The routine absence of corporate executive husband/fathers in intact families is a variation of father absence. Though not prolonged, frequent exits and reentries may stress the family system. To determine how nonclinical family members deal with routine father absence, a coping inventory was administered to 66 corporate wives. Factor analysis revealed wives coped with the stress of routine father absence by (a) fitting into the corporate lifestyle; (b) developing self; and (c) establishing independence. Though a pilot study, findings offer empirical support for a premise more traditionally accepted by family therapists than by family sociologists: Individual psychological variables need to be considered along with systems variables in the development of family stress theory.", "PMID": 437071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3433", "title": "Transfer of therapeutic effects from institution to home: faith, hope, and behavior modification.", "content": "Effective transfer of therapeutic results from institutional to home settings is a demanding problem facing family therapists. The issues involved and one approach to their solution are examined through the case of a 10-year-old boy hospitalized for severe antisocial behavior. Once results were obtained in an institutional setting, the therapeutic program there was faded out and concurrently faded into the home. Three- and 12-month follow-ups revealed continued improvement.", "contents": "Transfer of therapeutic effects from institution to home: faith, hope, and behavior modification. Effective transfer of therapeutic results from institutional to home settings is a demanding problem facing family therapists. The issues involved and one approach to their solution are examined through the case of a 10-year-old boy hospitalized for severe antisocial behavior. Once results were obtained in an institutional setting, the therapeutic program there was faded out and concurrently faded into the home. Three- and 12-month follow-ups revealed continued improvement.", "PMID": 437072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3434", "title": "Learning multiple family therapy through simulated workshops.", "content": "Multiple Family Therapy (MFT) can be learned more rapidly through simulated workshops. A chronological approach to a simulated workshop is outlined describing mechanics and techniques. The hardest parts of simulated and real MFT are taking off and landing. Specific exercises are detailed to facilitate the early phases when professionals tend to simulate excessive psychopathology. However, recovery is usually rapid and dramatic in simulations; thus, the workshop leaders appear impressive. How to end \"healthily\" is the final challenge. Group input for assessment of simulated and real MFT is essential. From this feedback, subassertives and schizophrenics may be at the highest risk for deleterious effects from real MFT.", "contents": "Learning multiple family therapy through simulated workshops. Multiple Family Therapy (MFT) can be learned more rapidly through simulated workshops. A chronological approach to a simulated workshop is outlined describing mechanics and techniques. The hardest parts of simulated and real MFT are taking off and landing. Specific exercises are detailed to facilitate the early phases when professionals tend to simulate excessive psychopathology. However, recovery is usually rapid and dramatic in simulations; thus, the workshop leaders appear impressive. How to end \"healthily\" is the final challenge. Group input for assessment of simulated and real MFT is essential. From this feedback, subassertives and schizophrenics may be at the highest risk for deleterious effects from real MFT.", "PMID": 437073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3435", "title": "[Effect of neurotropic drugs on the excitability of the structures of the striopallidal complex].", "content": "The results of investigations into the effect of microinjections of a number of adrenocholino- and dophaminergic agents on excitability of the pale globe, caudate nucleus and shell are reported. The non-uniformity of the effects produced by the agents of the mediator type action is established both in different segments and in individual zones of the extrapyramidal system with continuous concurrent antagonism between the mimetics and the corresponding blocking agents. The presence of alpha- and beta-adrenoreceptors and also of M- and N-cholinoreceptors in the structures of the striopallidal complex is suggested.", "contents": "[Effect of neurotropic drugs on the excitability of the structures of the striopallidal complex]. The results of investigations into the effect of microinjections of a number of adrenocholino- and dophaminergic agents on excitability of the pale globe, caudate nucleus and shell are reported. The non-uniformity of the effects produced by the agents of the mediator type action is established both in different segments and in individual zones of the extrapyramidal system with continuous concurrent antagonism between the mimetics and the corresponding blocking agents. The presence of alpha- and beta-adrenoreceptors and also of M- and N-cholinoreceptors in the structures of the striopallidal complex is suggested.", "PMID": 437075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3436", "title": "[Effect of droperidol, aminazine and diazepam on the analgesic activity of leucine-enkephalin].", "content": "In experiments on rats it was shown that the neuroleptics droperidol (0.6 mg/kg) and aminazin (10 mg/kg) can potentiate the analgetic action of the endogenous morphine-like pentapeptide leucin-enkephalin administered into the brain ventricles at a dose of 50 micrograms. A statistically significant increase in the analgetic activity lf leucin-enkephalin given at a dose of 100 micrograms was induced only by droperidol. The tranquilizer diazepam (5 mg/kg) had no effect on the action lf leucin-enkephalin. Naloxon (2 mg/kg) removed the analgetic effect of leuchin-enkephalin administered both alone and after a preliminary injection od droperidol or aminazin.", "contents": "[Effect of droperidol, aminazine and diazepam on the analgesic activity of leucine-enkephalin]. In experiments on rats it was shown that the neuroleptics droperidol (0.6 mg/kg) and aminazin (10 mg/kg) can potentiate the analgetic action of the endogenous morphine-like pentapeptide leucin-enkephalin administered into the brain ventricles at a dose of 50 micrograms. A statistically significant increase in the analgetic activity lf leucin-enkephalin given at a dose of 100 micrograms was induced only by droperidol. The tranquilizer diazepam (5 mg/kg) had no effect on the action lf leucin-enkephalin. Naloxon (2 mg/kg) removed the analgetic effect of leuchin-enkephalin administered both alone and after a preliminary injection od droperidol or aminazin.", "PMID": 437076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3437", "title": "[Effect of glycerin on several indices of intracranial hemodynamics and the electroencephalogram of wakeful cats with experimental intracerebral hemorrhage].", "content": "An intravenous infusion of glycerin to cats 24-48 hours after an intracerebral hemorrhage contributes to normalization of the EEG, Intensifies the local blood flow in the visual cortex, thalamus and reticular formation of the midbrain in both hemispheres (predominantly in the regions of the right affected hemisphere). The drug produces a fall in the absolute values of the intracranial pressure without its secondary rise after infusion is discontinued and causes a moderate rise of the perfusion pressure. The intravenous infusion of glycerin is more effective than its single injection.", "contents": "[Effect of glycerin on several indices of intracranial hemodynamics and the electroencephalogram of wakeful cats with experimental intracerebral hemorrhage]. An intravenous infusion of glycerin to cats 24-48 hours after an intracerebral hemorrhage contributes to normalization of the EEG, Intensifies the local blood flow in the visual cortex, thalamus and reticular formation of the midbrain in both hemispheres (predominantly in the regions of the right affected hemisphere). The drug produces a fall in the absolute values of the intracranial pressure without its secondary rise after infusion is discontinued and causes a moderate rise of the perfusion pressure. The intravenous infusion of glycerin is more effective than its single injection.", "PMID": 437078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3438", "title": "[Effect of papaverine on the energy processes of myocardial mitochondria].", "content": "In experiments with dog's myocardial mitochondria the influence of different doses of papaverine on the succinate, glutamate and alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation was studied. The drug effect depended on its dose, it not being related to the substrate transport across the mitochondrial inner membrane and not resulting from the block of the respiratory chain between NAD.H and cytochrome b. The papaverine action is possibly due to the inhibition of specific dehydrogenases. The glutamate oxidase system proves most sensitive to inhibition produced by papaverine, while the alpha-ketoglutarate oxidase system is less susceptible to the effect of this drug. The succinate oxidase system is found to be least sensitive to the action of papaverine.", "contents": "[Effect of papaverine on the energy processes of myocardial mitochondria]. In experiments with dog's myocardial mitochondria the influence of different doses of papaverine on the succinate, glutamate and alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation was studied. The drug effect depended on its dose, it not being related to the substrate transport across the mitochondrial inner membrane and not resulting from the block of the respiratory chain between NAD.H and cytochrome b. The papaverine action is possibly due to the inhibition of specific dehydrogenases. The glutamate oxidase system proves most sensitive to inhibition produced by papaverine, while the alpha-ketoglutarate oxidase system is less susceptible to the effect of this drug. The succinate oxidase system is found to be least sensitive to the action of papaverine.", "PMID": 437079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3439", "title": "[Relationship between the structure, affinity for phospholipid membranes and anti-arrhythmic activity of 10-acylaminopropionyl derivatives of phenothiazines].", "content": "The interaction of thirteen 10-acylaminopropionyl derivatives of phenothiazine with phospholipid membranes was investigated. A correlation between the affinity of these substances to membranes and their antiarrhythmic activity was found. A molecular model of a complex of the substance-membrane is proposed. It shows how the molecular structure of the study substances affects their affinity to phospholipids and thus influences the activity of the former. The affinity chiefly depends on the accordance between the structure and the disposition of the lateral substitute, on the one hand, and the structure of the phospholipid bis-layer, and also of the hydrophobic nature of the 10-acylaminopropionyl group, on the other.", "contents": "[Relationship between the structure, affinity for phospholipid membranes and anti-arrhythmic activity of 10-acylaminopropionyl derivatives of phenothiazines]. The interaction of thirteen 10-acylaminopropionyl derivatives of phenothiazine with phospholipid membranes was investigated. A correlation between the affinity of these substances to membranes and their antiarrhythmic activity was found. A molecular model of a complex of the substance-membrane is proposed. It shows how the molecular structure of the study substances affects their affinity to phospholipids and thus influences the activity of the former. The affinity chiefly depends on the accordance between the structure and the disposition of the lateral substitute, on the one hand, and the structure of the phospholipid bis-layer, and also of the hydrophobic nature of the 10-acylaminopropionyl group, on the other.", "PMID": 437080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3440", "title": "[Effect of heparin complexed with urea on tumor growth and the ultrastructure of malignant cells].", "content": "Sarcoma 45 cells were inoculated subcutaneously to rats and carcinosarcoma. Walker 256 cells implanted intramuscularly in the Wistar rats. The injections of the heparin-urea complex with a simultaneous blocking of the vegetative nerves system created an anticoagulant and fibrinolytic background in the organism of these animals and produced an antitumorigenic effect, i.e. the inhibition of growth of primary tumors and metastases, the mitotic activity decline in the malignant tissue and a change in the submicroscopic structure of the sarcoma 45 cells (greater chromatin density, prevalence of the fibrillar component in the nuclei, swelling of the reticulum channels, condensation of mitochondria and reduction of polysomes). All this shows the physiological activity of malignant cells to decline through imitating the hyperfunction of the anticoagulation blood system.", "contents": "[Effect of heparin complexed with urea on tumor growth and the ultrastructure of malignant cells]. Sarcoma 45 cells were inoculated subcutaneously to rats and carcinosarcoma. Walker 256 cells implanted intramuscularly in the Wistar rats. The injections of the heparin-urea complex with a simultaneous blocking of the vegetative nerves system created an anticoagulant and fibrinolytic background in the organism of these animals and produced an antitumorigenic effect, i.e. the inhibition of growth of primary tumors and metastases, the mitotic activity decline in the malignant tissue and a change in the submicroscopic structure of the sarcoma 45 cells (greater chromatin density, prevalence of the fibrillar component in the nuclei, swelling of the reticulum channels, condensation of mitochondria and reduction of polysomes). All this shows the physiological activity of malignant cells to decline through imitating the hyperfunction of the anticoagulation blood system.", "PMID": 437082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3441", "title": "[Effect of several anti-arrhythmic substances on ion currents in from atrium].", "content": "On trabeculae of the frog's atrium it is shown by the method of the potential fixation with the use of a double saccharose bridge that novocainamide, quinidine and oxylidine mainly reduce the steady output membrane current and virtually have no effect on the input peak current. And, conversely, novocain significantly suppresses the input peak current and affects but little the steady membrane current.", "contents": "[Effect of several anti-arrhythmic substances on ion currents in from atrium]. On trabeculae of the frog's atrium it is shown by the method of the potential fixation with the use of a double saccharose bridge that novocainamide, quinidine and oxylidine mainly reduce the steady output membrane current and virtually have no effect on the input peak current. And, conversely, novocain significantly suppresses the input peak current and affects but little the steady membrane current.", "PMID": 437081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3442", "title": "[Effect of several diuretics on ischemic damage to the kidneys].", "content": "Furosemide, etacrynic acid and mannitol administered to the survival of rats. However, these drugs prove ineffective in the event they are indicated after the action of the ischemic factor is discontinued. Etacrynic acid and novurit inhibit the functional activity of isolated mitochondria incubated under hypoxia and at a temperature of 37 degrees C.", "contents": "[Effect of several diuretics on ischemic damage to the kidneys]. Furosemide, etacrynic acid and mannitol administered to the survival of rats. However, these drugs prove ineffective in the event they are indicated after the action of the ischemic factor is discontinued. Etacrynic acid and novurit inhibit the functional activity of isolated mitochondria incubated under hypoxia and at a temperature of 37 degrees C.", "PMID": 437083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3443", "title": "[Stabilizing effect of the antioxidants alpha-tocopherol and sodium selenite following phospholipase damage to mitochondrial membranes in a model of anoxia].", "content": "The kinetics of the free fatty acids accumulation in membranes of isolated mitochondria of the brain, heart and liver of rats, with their incubation in a medium containing no substrates and ATP, was studied. The intensity of the phospholipase damage, measured by the rate of free fatty acids accumulation, augments in the sequence of: the liver-heart-brain. The amassment of fatty acids in the mitochondrial membranes is shown to give place to their penetration into the inner space of the mitochondria. A relationship between the content of the intramitochondrial calcium and the concentration of free fatty acids in in the membranes, on the one hand, and the degree of passive swelling of the cardiac mitochondria, on the other, was revealed. It is suggested that the free fatty acids or their derivatives act as carriers of calcium to the mitochondrial membrane. A preliminary administration to rats of the vitamin E and sodium selenite protects the mitochondria of the heart against the phospholipase damage. These agents display a synergic action and are effective with administration of physiological doses. It is presumed that the protective action of these substances is due to the stabilization of biological membranes.", "contents": "[Stabilizing effect of the antioxidants alpha-tocopherol and sodium selenite following phospholipase damage to mitochondrial membranes in a model of anoxia]. The kinetics of the free fatty acids accumulation in membranes of isolated mitochondria of the brain, heart and liver of rats, with their incubation in a medium containing no substrates and ATP, was studied. The intensity of the phospholipase damage, measured by the rate of free fatty acids accumulation, augments in the sequence of: the liver-heart-brain. The amassment of fatty acids in the mitochondrial membranes is shown to give place to their penetration into the inner space of the mitochondria. A relationship between the content of the intramitochondrial calcium and the concentration of free fatty acids in in the membranes, on the one hand, and the degree of passive swelling of the cardiac mitochondria, on the other, was revealed. It is suggested that the free fatty acids or their derivatives act as carriers of calcium to the mitochondrial membrane. A preliminary administration to rats of the vitamin E and sodium selenite protects the mitochondria of the heart against the phospholipase damage. These agents display a synergic action and are effective with administration of physiological doses. It is presumed that the protective action of these substances is due to the stabilization of biological membranes.", "PMID": 437084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3444", "title": "[Effect of phenobarbital on the embryotoxic action of 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid].", "content": "Single administration of 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (2M-4C) to albino rats on the 9th and 10th day of gestation produces a teratogenic and embryotoxic action. A preliminary administration of phenobarbital in a dose of 80 mg/kg for 3 days largely reduced the embryotoxic effect of the drug, this manifesting itself in a lower general embryonal and post-implantation mortality, greater size and mass of the fetuses. It is suggested that the stimulation of the microsomal oxidation with phenobarbital led to a higher speed of the 2M-4C molecule decomposition and, consequently, to its lessened embryotoxic effect.", "contents": "[Effect of phenobarbital on the embryotoxic action of 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid]. Single administration of 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (2M-4C) to albino rats on the 9th and 10th day of gestation produces a teratogenic and embryotoxic action. A preliminary administration of phenobarbital in a dose of 80 mg/kg for 3 days largely reduced the embryotoxic effect of the drug, this manifesting itself in a lower general embryonal and post-implantation mortality, greater size and mass of the fetuses. It is suggested that the stimulation of the microsomal oxidation with phenobarbital led to a higher speed of the 2M-4C molecule decomposition and, consequently, to its lessened embryotoxic effect.", "PMID": 437086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3445", "title": "[In vitro interaction between sex hormones and lysosomes isolated from rat liver and kidney].", "content": "With incubation in vitro of the liver and kidneys lysosomes of castrated rats together with 3H-testosterone and 3H-estradiol in the end concentrations of 2.38.10(-11) M (1 microCu) and 2.8.10(-10) M (2.49 microCu), respectively it was found that the lysosomes can bind labelled hormones. The treatment of lysosomes with membrane-toxic agents (90% aqueous acetone, phospholipase C and 0.1% triton X-100) results in the elimination of labelled steroids from them. In the interaction of 3H-testosterone and 3H-estradiol with lysosomes partake both proteins and lipids of the membranes.", "contents": "[In vitro interaction between sex hormones and lysosomes isolated from rat liver and kidney]. With incubation in vitro of the liver and kidneys lysosomes of castrated rats together with 3H-testosterone and 3H-estradiol in the end concentrations of 2.38.10(-11) M (1 microCu) and 2.8.10(-10) M (2.49 microCu), respectively it was found that the lysosomes can bind labelled hormones. The treatment of lysosomes with membrane-toxic agents (90% aqueous acetone, phospholipase C and 0.1% triton X-100) results in the elimination of labelled steroids from them. In the interaction of 3H-testosterone and 3H-estradiol with lysosomes partake both proteins and lipids of the membranes.", "PMID": 437088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3446", "title": "[Comparative intensity of oxidative phosphorylation in different regions of the cerebral cortex of intact animals during anesthesia and hypoxia].", "content": "Experiments on 54 dogs with the use of the manometric method of Warburg proved that the level of oxidative phosphorylation in the brain cortex segments differing in the level of their phylogenic development is dissimilar. In the new cortex segment (sensomotor region) the oxygen and inorganic phosphorus uptake as well as the degree of their conjugation, as compared to the energy exchange intensity in the tissues of the old cortex (hippocampus), were found to show a higher level. Anesthetics, such as ether and sodium hexobarbital caused dissociation of the oxidative phosphorylation, more pronounced in the elements of the old cortical segments than in the new ones. The suppression of biochemical processes was especially profound under the effect of sodium hexobarbital and less marked under an ether poisoning. Hypoxia and combined action of an anesthetic and hypoxia produced inhibition of the energy exchange, more intensive in the new cortical segments.", "contents": "[Comparative intensity of oxidative phosphorylation in different regions of the cerebral cortex of intact animals during anesthesia and hypoxia]. Experiments on 54 dogs with the use of the manometric method of Warburg proved that the level of oxidative phosphorylation in the brain cortex segments differing in the level of their phylogenic development is dissimilar. In the new cortex segment (sensomotor region) the oxygen and inorganic phosphorus uptake as well as the degree of their conjugation, as compared to the energy exchange intensity in the tissues of the old cortex (hippocampus), were found to show a higher level. Anesthetics, such as ether and sodium hexobarbital caused dissociation of the oxidative phosphorylation, more pronounced in the elements of the old cortical segments than in the new ones. The suppression of biochemical processes was especially profound under the effect of sodium hexobarbital and less marked under an ether poisoning. Hypoxia and combined action of an anesthetic and hypoxia produced inhibition of the energy exchange, more intensive in the new cortical segments.", "PMID": 437089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3447", "title": "Analysis and exploration of age-related changes in mammalian structure and function.", "content": "Although there is a large body of data showing an age-associated decline in the physiological systems of mammals, there is a great need for more descriptive information on the morphological and functional changes that occur with age. A powerful approach for ascertaining the extent to which age-related physiological changes limit the functional capacity of mammals is to study the effects of age on the response to challenges. Food restriction that markedly increases the mean life span of rodents also provides a potentially effective experimental probe of the aging process. Results are reported from our current research on morphologic and functional changes during the total life span of rats and on the influence of food restriction on these age-related changes. The data from our study of the lean body mass, adipose tissue mass, and adipose tissue structure indicate that current dogmas need to be reexamined; moreover, they clearly show the need for and the power of life-long descriptive studies. Our research on the influence of food restriction on age-related changes in functional activity supports the hypothesis that one mechanism by which food restriction increases the life span of rats relates to the delay in time of onset and a change in chronologic course of physiologic decline.", "contents": "Analysis and exploration of age-related changes in mammalian structure and function. Although there is a large body of data showing an age-associated decline in the physiological systems of mammals, there is a great need for more descriptive information on the morphological and functional changes that occur with age. A powerful approach for ascertaining the extent to which age-related physiological changes limit the functional capacity of mammals is to study the effects of age on the response to challenges. Food restriction that markedly increases the mean life span of rodents also provides a potentially effective experimental probe of the aging process. Results are reported from our current research on morphologic and functional changes during the total life span of rats and on the influence of food restriction on these age-related changes. The data from our study of the lean body mass, adipose tissue mass, and adipose tissue structure indicate that current dogmas need to be reexamined; moreover, they clearly show the need for and the power of life-long descriptive studies. Our research on the influence of food restriction on age-related changes in functional activity supports the hypothesis that one mechanism by which food restriction increases the life span of rats relates to the delay in time of onset and a change in chronologic course of physiologic decline.", "PMID": 437139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3448", "title": "The structural organization of mouse chromatin as a function of age.", "content": "Chromatin is organized into a repeating structure (nucleosome) made up of proteins and DNA. Micrococcal nuclease and DNAase I have been used to probe this structure in nuclear populations from three tissues (liver, brain, and heart) of the inbred mouse strain C57BL at different ages. For those parameters examined, for each tissue, chromatin contained essentially the same features of nucleosomal organization, regardless of the age of the mouse. Thus, the rate and extent of nuclease digestion and the size of the DNA repeat unit and nucleosome core are not significantly different as a function of age. However, the accessibility of internucleosomal DNA to micrococcal nuclease, as determined by measuring the DNA size distribution after nuclease cutting, may be partially limited in chromatin of brain (but not liver or heart) of older animals. These results indicate that there are no gross, age-related changes in the conformational state or organization of chromatin in these tissues. The results do not exclude smaller alterations in chromatin that might occur with age, which the current methodology might not be sensitive enough to detect.", "contents": "The structural organization of mouse chromatin as a function of age. Chromatin is organized into a repeating structure (nucleosome) made up of proteins and DNA. Micrococcal nuclease and DNAase I have been used to probe this structure in nuclear populations from three tissues (liver, brain, and heart) of the inbred mouse strain C57BL at different ages. For those parameters examined, for each tissue, chromatin contained essentially the same features of nucleosomal organization, regardless of the age of the mouse. Thus, the rate and extent of nuclease digestion and the size of the DNA repeat unit and nucleosome core are not significantly different as a function of age. However, the accessibility of internucleosomal DNA to micrococcal nuclease, as determined by measuring the DNA size distribution after nuclease cutting, may be partially limited in chromatin of brain (but not liver or heart) of older animals. These results indicate that there are no gross, age-related changes in the conformational state or organization of chromatin in these tissues. The results do not exclude smaller alterations in chromatin that might occur with age, which the current methodology might not be sensitive enough to detect.", "PMID": 437140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3449", "title": "Protein synthesis and aging: studies with cell-free mammalian systems.", "content": "A cell-free system devoid of polysomes, which translates natural mRNA, has been prepared from rat liver. It contains ribosomal subunits, ribosomes, aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, tRNAs, and protein factors necessary for translation. Protein synthesis required an energy-generating system, mRNA, and 3 mM Mg2+ concentration, and it was inhibited by 7-methylguanylic acid. The total extent and the rate of protein synthesis were approximately 30% greater when the translating system was prepared from livers of 3-month-old rats, as compared to 30-month-old rats. A ribosome-free fraction containing the protein factors required for translation was also prepared from 3-month-old and 30-month-old rat livers and brains, by extraction with 0.5 M KCl. The high-salt extracts were analyzed for elongation factors EF-1 and EF-2 in a poly(U) translating system. Although the activity of EF-2 was similar in preparations from young and old rats, the EF-1 activity in the 3-month-old rat livers and brains was 30 to 40% greater than in 30-month-old animals. The protein synthesizing activity of high salt-washed ribosomes stripped of endogenous peptidyl-tRNA and mRNA, from livers and brains of young and old animals, was the same.", "contents": "Protein synthesis and aging: studies with cell-free mammalian systems. A cell-free system devoid of polysomes, which translates natural mRNA, has been prepared from rat liver. It contains ribosomal subunits, ribosomes, aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, tRNAs, and protein factors necessary for translation. Protein synthesis required an energy-generating system, mRNA, and 3 mM Mg2+ concentration, and it was inhibited by 7-methylguanylic acid. The total extent and the rate of protein synthesis were approximately 30% greater when the translating system was prepared from livers of 3-month-old rats, as compared to 30-month-old rats. A ribosome-free fraction containing the protein factors required for translation was also prepared from 3-month-old and 30-month-old rat livers and brains, by extraction with 0.5 M KCl. The high-salt extracts were analyzed for elongation factors EF-1 and EF-2 in a poly(U) translating system. Although the activity of EF-2 was similar in preparations from young and old rats, the EF-1 activity in the 3-month-old rat livers and brains was 30 to 40% greater than in 30-month-old animals. The protein synthesizing activity of high salt-washed ribosomes stripped of endogenous peptidyl-tRNA and mRNA, from livers and brains of young and old animals, was the same.", "PMID": 437141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3450", "title": "Age-related changes in function of transfer ribonucleic acid of rat livers.", "content": "Changes in transfer ribonucleic acids during aging could be caused by alterations in regulation or mutation and give rise to slower and less accurate protein synthesis. Rodent liver parenchymal cells, purified from disaggregated livers, do decrease in ability to incorporate labeled amino acids during aging. Moreover, old rodents have a rapidly degraded fraction of liver soluble RNA which is absent from middle-aged animals. In addition, tRNAs purified from old unfractionated liver cannot be acylated as well as from young. High speed supernatant tRNAs from old and young liver are quite similar in acylation capacity. Analysis indicates that a defective subfraction of tRNA may be bound to the ribosomal fraction of the liver cell. Some evidence indicates that base modification levels differ in young and old rodent liver. Shifts in the proportions of lysine and serine isoacceptors during aging are consistent with this idea. One isoacceptor change is an increase in tRNAlys4, which is correlated with cell division capacity in other systems.", "contents": "Age-related changes in function of transfer ribonucleic acid of rat livers. Changes in transfer ribonucleic acids during aging could be caused by alterations in regulation or mutation and give rise to slower and less accurate protein synthesis. Rodent liver parenchymal cells, purified from disaggregated livers, do decrease in ability to incorporate labeled amino acids during aging. Moreover, old rodents have a rapidly degraded fraction of liver soluble RNA which is absent from middle-aged animals. In addition, tRNAs purified from old unfractionated liver cannot be acylated as well as from young. High speed supernatant tRNAs from old and young liver are quite similar in acylation capacity. Analysis indicates that a defective subfraction of tRNA may be bound to the ribosomal fraction of the liver cell. Some evidence indicates that base modification levels differ in young and old rodent liver. Shifts in the proportions of lysine and serine isoacceptors during aging are consistent with this idea. One isoacceptor change is an increase in tRNAlys4, which is correlated with cell division capacity in other systems.", "PMID": 437142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3451", "title": "Influence of controlled dietary restriction on immunologic function and aging.", "content": "The underfeeding regimens tested in rodents for life span prolongation and/or immunologic effects result in a complex blend of protein and energy restriction while offering at least adequate amounts of all other essential nutrients. Underfeeding started at weaning and continued throughout life represents the only proved way of slowing the rate of aging in homeotherms. Mounting evidence indicates that underfeeding initiated later in life may also influence life span favorably. Old mice after lifelong restriction, or moderately aged mice (16.5 months) after 4.5 months of restriction, display \"younger\" immune systems than do age-matched, normally fed controls, as judged by response to mitogens, the mixed lymphocyte reaction, and other determinants. The immunologic effects of underfeeding, when measured quite early in life, are strain-dependent in the mouse. Diets designed to restrict the intake per week of energy (but not protein) produce the same effects on immune response capacity in very young mice as do energy restricted, protein unbalanced regimens. Underfeeding early in life drastically dampens thymic growth and alters the timing of involution. Early restriction also produces a profound lowering of body temperature in young (C57BL/10Sn x C3H/HeDiSn)F1 females. On the other hand, temperature lowering was not observed in males of this hybrid fed normally for the first year of life and restricted for 3 months prior to measurement. The mechanisms behind these various effects of controlled dietary restriction (i.e., undernutrition without malnutrition) are poorly understood at present.", "contents": "Influence of controlled dietary restriction on immunologic function and aging. The underfeeding regimens tested in rodents for life span prolongation and/or immunologic effects result in a complex blend of protein and energy restriction while offering at least adequate amounts of all other essential nutrients. Underfeeding started at weaning and continued throughout life represents the only proved way of slowing the rate of aging in homeotherms. Mounting evidence indicates that underfeeding initiated later in life may also influence life span favorably. Old mice after lifelong restriction, or moderately aged mice (16.5 months) after 4.5 months of restriction, display \"younger\" immune systems than do age-matched, normally fed controls, as judged by response to mitogens, the mixed lymphocyte reaction, and other determinants. The immunologic effects of underfeeding, when measured quite early in life, are strain-dependent in the mouse. Diets designed to restrict the intake per week of energy (but not protein) produce the same effects on immune response capacity in very young mice as do energy restricted, protein unbalanced regimens. Underfeeding early in life drastically dampens thymic growth and alters the timing of involution. Early restriction also produces a profound lowering of body temperature in young (C57BL/10Sn x C3H/HeDiSn)F1 females. On the other hand, temperature lowering was not observed in males of this hybrid fed normally for the first year of life and restricted for 3 months prior to measurement. The mechanisms behind these various effects of controlled dietary restriction (i.e., undernutrition without malnutrition) are poorly understood at present.", "PMID": 437143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3452", "title": "Application of equivalent electrical circuit models to study of sodium transport across epithelial tissues.", "content": "An equivalent electrical circuit model for Na transport across epithelial tissues under steady-state conditions, which incorporates the flows and forces across the two limiting membranes and the paracellular pathway, is described. The analysis of electrophysiologic data obtained on rabbit colon within the framework of this model provides information regarding the thermodynamic activity of cell Na and the resistance offered by the mucosal membrane to Na entry. The interpretation of the data dealing with the active extrusion of Na from the cell across the basolateral membrane awaits more detailed information regarding the pump mechanism responsible for this movement; until then, the electromotive force across the basolateral membrane and the resistance of that barrier must be considered phenomenologic parameters that relate the Na current to the observed electrical potential difference.", "contents": "Application of equivalent electrical circuit models to study of sodium transport across epithelial tissues. An equivalent electrical circuit model for Na transport across epithelial tissues under steady-state conditions, which incorporates the flows and forces across the two limiting membranes and the paracellular pathway, is described. The analysis of electrophysiologic data obtained on rabbit colon within the framework of this model provides information regarding the thermodynamic activity of cell Na and the resistance offered by the mucosal membrane to Na entry. The interpretation of the data dealing with the active extrusion of Na from the cell across the basolateral membrane awaits more detailed information regarding the pump mechanism responsible for this movement; until then, the electromotive force across the basolateral membrane and the resistance of that barrier must be considered phenomenologic parameters that relate the Na current to the observed electrical potential difference.", "PMID": 437144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3453", "title": "Hormonal considerations in early normal pregnancy and blighted ovum syndrome.", "content": "The hormonal profiles of six pregnancies which terminated in miscarriage with the blighted ovum syndrome have been studied and compared with those of a group of patients similarly studied who had clinically normal pregnancies terminating in live birth at term. The serum chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) values were below normal or at the lowest limit of normal in five of six patients. Three patients had progesterone values within 1 SD of the normal, with normal serum estradiol values. It was concluded that the hormonal profile of early pregnancy is characterized by rising serum HCG and estradiol levels and a declining serum progesterone level from the 5th to the 8th week. The theoretical explanation for the dichotomy seems to be that the fetal adrenal anlagen, even at this early embryonic stage, can produce steroid precursors which are aromatized to estradiol. The production of progesterone, however, does not seem to be possible. Abnormal serum estradiol levels strongly suggest the absence of fetal development and a blighted ovum. However, no single hormonal level will distinguish between blighted ovum and potentially salvagable threatened abortion.", "contents": "Hormonal considerations in early normal pregnancy and blighted ovum syndrome. The hormonal profiles of six pregnancies which terminated in miscarriage with the blighted ovum syndrome have been studied and compared with those of a group of patients similarly studied who had clinically normal pregnancies terminating in live birth at term. The serum chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) values were below normal or at the lowest limit of normal in five of six patients. Three patients had progesterone values within 1 SD of the normal, with normal serum estradiol values. It was concluded that the hormonal profile of early pregnancy is characterized by rising serum HCG and estradiol levels and a declining serum progesterone level from the 5th to the 8th week. The theoretical explanation for the dichotomy seems to be that the fetal adrenal anlagen, even at this early embryonic stage, can produce steroid precursors which are aromatized to estradiol. The production of progesterone, however, does not seem to be possible. Abnormal serum estradiol levels strongly suggest the absence of fetal development and a blighted ovum. However, no single hormonal level will distinguish between blighted ovum and potentially salvagable threatened abortion.", "PMID": 437159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3454", "title": "Sequential analysis of spontaneous abortion. II. Collaborative study data show that gravidity determines a very substantial rise in risk.", "content": "Evidence from more than 14,000 reproductive histories in the Collaborative Perinatal Project of the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke indicates that the risk of spontaneous abortion increases considerably with gravidity. Maternal age, memory errors, and sampling bias related to recurrence risk do not account for the trend. Clustering, or tendency for abortions to follow one another, occurs in histories which include live births.", "contents": "Sequential analysis of spontaneous abortion. II. Collaborative study data show that gravidity determines a very substantial rise in risk. Evidence from more than 14,000 reproductive histories in the Collaborative Perinatal Project of the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke indicates that the risk of spontaneous abortion increases considerably with gravidity. Maternal age, memory errors, and sampling bias related to recurrence risk do not account for the trend. Clustering, or tendency for abortions to follow one another, occurs in histories which include live births.", "PMID": 437160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3455", "title": "Lysis of postoperative pelvic adhesions in infertility.", "content": "Ovum pickup, sperm transport, and zygote transfer depend on unrestricted contractile, ciliary, and peristaltic mechanisms in the uterine tube and ovary. When adhesions hobble these mechanisms, infertility results. Traditional surgical correction may invite new adhesions thru trauma, disruption of blood supply, and inflammatory reactions from foreign materials. Microsurgery with electrosurgery reduced such surgical sequelae and doubled the term pregnancy rate.", "contents": "Lysis of postoperative pelvic adhesions in infertility. Ovum pickup, sperm transport, and zygote transfer depend on unrestricted contractile, ciliary, and peristaltic mechanisms in the uterine tube and ovary. When adhesions hobble these mechanisms, infertility results. Traditional surgical correction may invite new adhesions thru trauma, disruption of blood supply, and inflammatory reactions from foreign materials. Microsurgery with electrosurgery reduced such surgical sequelae and doubled the term pregnancy rate.", "PMID": 437161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3456", "title": "The importance of periadnexal adhesions in tubal reconstructive surgery for infertility.", "content": "In only a few studies of reconstructive surgery for infertility has the importance of periadnexal adhesions been examined with regard to the pregnancy rate. In the present study, 101 patients underwent reconstructive surgery for correction of infertility. Subsequent to surgery, 38.6% of the patients conceived, and 72% of the pregnancies terminated in live births. In analyzing the results, attention was focused upon the correlation between the severity of the periadnexal adhesions and the surgical outcome. By classifying the adhesions into four grades, an inverse relationship was noted between the grade of adhesions and the pregnancy rate. This relationship was consistent regardless of tubal condition, and thus became an important prognostic parameter. In the light of these findings it is felt that, in order to improve the results, more effort should be directed to the prevention of adhesion formation, together with the use of microsurgical technique in this particular field.", "contents": "The importance of periadnexal adhesions in tubal reconstructive surgery for infertility. In only a few studies of reconstructive surgery for infertility has the importance of periadnexal adhesions been examined with regard to the pregnancy rate. In the present study, 101 patients underwent reconstructive surgery for correction of infertility. Subsequent to surgery, 38.6% of the patients conceived, and 72% of the pregnancies terminated in live births. In analyzing the results, attention was focused upon the correlation between the severity of the periadnexal adhesions and the surgical outcome. By classifying the adhesions into four grades, an inverse relationship was noted between the grade of adhesions and the pregnancy rate. This relationship was consistent regardless of tubal condition, and thus became an important prognostic parameter. In the light of these findings it is felt that, in order to improve the results, more effort should be directed to the prevention of adhesion formation, together with the use of microsurgical technique in this particular field.", "PMID": 437162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3457", "title": "Hysteroscopy in 100 patients.", "content": "Seventy-five infertile patients and twenty-five in whom displacement of an intrauterine device (IUD) had occurred were examined under general anesthesia. The Storz 4-mm hysteroscope was utilized. In all cases Hyskon, high-molecular weight dextran, was used as the distention medium. Concurrent laparoscopy was performed in 80 patients. The hysteroscopic findings were compared with preoperative salpingograms or pelvic x-radiographs. In the infertility group the technique proved to be of special value in locating intrauterine adhesions which had not been detected radiologically. In the \"lost IUD\" group, hysteroscopy proved to be superior to radiography in determining whether or not a device was located within the uterine cavity, and greatly facilitated removal. Failure to carry out the procedure occurred in four patients. One suffered a serious complication: anaphylaxis to the dextran. It was concluded that hysteroscopy is a simple procedure carrying little risk. It is superior to hysterosalpingography in detecting intrauterine disease which may be a cause of infertility. It is greatly superior to radiology for the detection of lost IUDs.", "contents": "Hysteroscopy in 100 patients. Seventy-five infertile patients and twenty-five in whom displacement of an intrauterine device (IUD) had occurred were examined under general anesthesia. The Storz 4-mm hysteroscope was utilized. In all cases Hyskon, high-molecular weight dextran, was used as the distention medium. Concurrent laparoscopy was performed in 80 patients. The hysteroscopic findings were compared with preoperative salpingograms or pelvic x-radiographs. In the infertility group the technique proved to be of special value in locating intrauterine adhesions which had not been detected radiologically. In the \"lost IUD\" group, hysteroscopy proved to be superior to radiography in determining whether or not a device was located within the uterine cavity, and greatly facilitated removal. Failure to carry out the procedure occurred in four patients. One suffered a serious complication: anaphylaxis to the dextran. It was concluded that hysteroscopy is a simple procedure carrying little risk. It is superior to hysterosalpingography in detecting intrauterine disease which may be a cause of infertility. It is greatly superior to radiology for the detection of lost IUDs.", "PMID": 437163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3458", "title": "Spontaneous cure of male infertility.", "content": "Four of sixteen couples whose infertility was thought to be due to a male factor achieved a pregnancy without treatment. Pregnancy without therapy, despite compromised sperm counts or motilities, has been documented by a number of other authors. Despite this information many studies concerning the treatment of male infertility neglect to include control groups, and pregnancies which occur are credited solely to the therapy. Such claims of therapeutic success should be viewed with caution.", "contents": "Spontaneous cure of male infertility. Four of sixteen couples whose infertility was thought to be due to a male factor achieved a pregnancy without treatment. Pregnancy without therapy, despite compromised sperm counts or motilities, has been documented by a number of other authors. Despite this information many studies concerning the treatment of male infertility neglect to include control groups, and pregnancies which occur are credited solely to the therapy. Such claims of therapeutic success should be viewed with caution.", "PMID": 437164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3459", "title": "Epididymal extravasation following vasectomy as a cause for failure of vasectomy reversal.", "content": "Twenty-eight men undergoing vasectomy reversal who were found to have no sperm in the proximal vas fluid on one or both sides underwent microscopic epididymal exploration. In 33 of 39 cases so explored, normal sperm were found in the epididymal fluid of the corpus, despite absence of sperm in the vas fluid. Epididymal histology distal to this site revealed extensive interstitial sperm granulomas resulting from rupture of the epididymal duct. Testicular biopsy revealed normal spermatogenesis. Secondary epididymal obstructions were noted when there was copious fluid in the vas deferens proximal to the vasectomy site as well as when there was scanty fluid. It is concluded that persistent azoospermia after an accurate microscopic vasovasostomy results from the secondary epididymal obstruction induced by rupture of the epididymal duct related to the pressure increase after vasectomy.", "contents": "Epididymal extravasation following vasectomy as a cause for failure of vasectomy reversal. Twenty-eight men undergoing vasectomy reversal who were found to have no sperm in the proximal vas fluid on one or both sides underwent microscopic epididymal exploration. In 33 of 39 cases so explored, normal sperm were found in the epididymal fluid of the corpus, despite absence of sperm in the vas fluid. Epididymal histology distal to this site revealed extensive interstitial sperm granulomas resulting from rupture of the epididymal duct. Testicular biopsy revealed normal spermatogenesis. Secondary epididymal obstructions were noted when there was copious fluid in the vas deferens proximal to the vasectomy site as well as when there was scanty fluid. It is concluded that persistent azoospermia after an accurate microscopic vasovasostomy results from the secondary epididymal obstruction induced by rupture of the epididymal duct related to the pressure increase after vasectomy.", "PMID": 437165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3460", "title": "Is the low fertility rate after vasovasostomy caused by nerve resection during vasectomy?", "content": "Cross-sections of human spermatic cords and vasectomy specimens were prepared and the number and cross-sectional area of nerves were determined. On average, about one-half of all nerves in the near neighborhood of the vas deferens were resected during vasectomy. The total cross-sectional area of the nerves along the vasectomy specimens amounted to about one-half of the total area in the spermatic cord samples. The data support the hypothesis that removing nerves to the vas deferens during vasectomy could result in poor functional results after vasovasostomy, i.e., that powerful contraction of the proximal vas deferens and epididymis could be lacking.", "contents": "Is the low fertility rate after vasovasostomy caused by nerve resection during vasectomy? Cross-sections of human spermatic cords and vasectomy specimens were prepared and the number and cross-sectional area of nerves were determined. On average, about one-half of all nerves in the near neighborhood of the vas deferens were resected during vasectomy. The total cross-sectional area of the nerves along the vasectomy specimens amounted to about one-half of the total area in the spermatic cord samples. The data support the hypothesis that removing nerves to the vas deferens during vasectomy could result in poor functional results after vasovasostomy, i.e., that powerful contraction of the proximal vas deferens and epididymis could be lacking.", "PMID": 437166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3461", "title": "Effects of human seminal plasma on fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa.", "content": "Using zona-free hamster eggs and salt-stored human eggs for assessing the fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa, the effects of human seminal plasma on fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa were investigated. The persistent presence of seminal plasma prevented sperm attachment to and penetration into the zona pellucida and vitellus. A series of experiments with zona-free hamster eggs revealed that, once the spermatozoa were preincubated in a seminal plasma-free environment known to induce the acrosome reaction, the seminal plasma no longer interfered with sperm-egg fusion. The native seminal plasma appears to interfere with both the acrosome reaction and vigorous motility of the spermatozoa, and this could be the reason fertilization fails when the plasma is consistently present around the spermatozoa. The fertilization-disturbing factor or factors in the seminal plasma appear to be macromolecular substances or substances associated with macromolecules.", "contents": "Effects of human seminal plasma on fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa. Using zona-free hamster eggs and salt-stored human eggs for assessing the fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa, the effects of human seminal plasma on fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa were investigated. The persistent presence of seminal plasma prevented sperm attachment to and penetration into the zona pellucida and vitellus. A series of experiments with zona-free hamster eggs revealed that, once the spermatozoa were preincubated in a seminal plasma-free environment known to induce the acrosome reaction, the seminal plasma no longer interfered with sperm-egg fusion. The native seminal plasma appears to interfere with both the acrosome reaction and vigorous motility of the spermatozoa, and this could be the reason fertilization fails when the plasma is consistently present around the spermatozoa. The fertilization-disturbing factor or factors in the seminal plasma appear to be macromolecular substances or substances associated with macromolecules.", "PMID": 437167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3462", "title": "Effect of age and estrogen therapy on the immunoreactive human chorionic gonadotropin content of testes.", "content": "Levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) were determined in testicular tissue of young, apparently normal men; older men with carcinoma of the prostate; male transsexuals treated with estrogens; and also in seminal plasma of normal and vasectomized patients. In all samples with one exception (a 76-year-old male with cancer of the prostate), immunoreactive HCG activity could be detected. The immunoassayable HCG content was higher in testicular extracts from young adults as compared with older men with cancer of the prostate. In transsexuals receiving estrogen therapy, testicular HCG levels were also very low. A possible relationship between quantitatively normal spermatogenesis and the testicular HCG level has been discussed. HCG was detected in seminal plasma from both normal and vasectomized men. The origin of this HCG activity may be extratesticular, and the possible role of the prostate and seminal vesicle in the production of HCG-like activity has to be considered.", "contents": "Effect of age and estrogen therapy on the immunoreactive human chorionic gonadotropin content of testes. Levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) were determined in testicular tissue of young, apparently normal men; older men with carcinoma of the prostate; male transsexuals treated with estrogens; and also in seminal plasma of normal and vasectomized patients. In all samples with one exception (a 76-year-old male with cancer of the prostate), immunoreactive HCG activity could be detected. The immunoassayable HCG content was higher in testicular extracts from young adults as compared with older men with cancer of the prostate. In transsexuals receiving estrogen therapy, testicular HCG levels were also very low. A possible relationship between quantitatively normal spermatogenesis and the testicular HCG level has been discussed. HCG was detected in seminal plasma from both normal and vasectomized men. The origin of this HCG activity may be extratesticular, and the possible role of the prostate and seminal vesicle in the production of HCG-like activity has to be considered.", "PMID": 437168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3463", "title": "Mammary tumors and serum hormones in the bitch treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate or progesterone for four years.", "content": "After 4 years of a long-term contraceptive steroid safety study, the incidence and the histologic types of mammary dysplasia produced are shown to be similar in beagles treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (medroxyprogesterone) or progesterone. Serum insulin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine, growth hormone, prolactin, 17 beta-estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol were determined by radioimmunoassay on samples collected after 45 months of treatment. Serum growth hormone and insulin concentrations were elevated in a dose-related manner in both treatment groups. Levels of triiodothyronine, cortisol, and 17 beta-estradiol (medroxyprogesterone only) were lowered. TSH and prolactin concentrations were not changed. Pituitary-gonadal hormone interaction in the pathogenesis of mammary neoplasia of the dog is discussed. Prolonged treatment of beagles with doses of progesterone or medroxyprogesterone 1 to 25 times the human contraceptive dose or luteal phase (dog) levels, respectively, results in a dose-related incidence of mammary nodules.", "contents": "Mammary tumors and serum hormones in the bitch treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate or progesterone for four years. After 4 years of a long-term contraceptive steroid safety study, the incidence and the histologic types of mammary dysplasia produced are shown to be similar in beagles treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (medroxyprogesterone) or progesterone. Serum insulin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine, growth hormone, prolactin, 17 beta-estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol were determined by radioimmunoassay on samples collected after 45 months of treatment. Serum growth hormone and insulin concentrations were elevated in a dose-related manner in both treatment groups. Levels of triiodothyronine, cortisol, and 17 beta-estradiol (medroxyprogesterone only) were lowered. TSH and prolactin concentrations were not changed. Pituitary-gonadal hormone interaction in the pathogenesis of mammary neoplasia of the dog is discussed. Prolonged treatment of beagles with doses of progesterone or medroxyprogesterone 1 to 25 times the human contraceptive dose or luteal phase (dog) levels, respectively, results in a dose-related incidence of mammary nodules.", "PMID": 437169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3464", "title": "[Cerebral water and electrolytes during changes in the osmolarity and volume of the extracellular fluid].", "content": "The increase of osmolarity in the blood serum after administration of polyethylenglycol-400 (PEG) as well as the sharp increase of the renal loss of fluid under the influence of furosemide insignificantly affected the water contents in the white and grey brain substance. A slight dehydration of the grey substance occured on combination of osmotic gradient effect and the renal loss of fluid. Preservation of initial hydration of the brain within the skull on administration of PEG and furosemide is due to redistribution of the fluid phases: dehydration of cells is followed by an increase in the volume of sodium-containing tissue fluid where upon the amount of sodium and calcium in the tissue practically does not change.", "contents": "[Cerebral water and electrolytes during changes in the osmolarity and volume of the extracellular fluid]. The increase of osmolarity in the blood serum after administration of polyethylenglycol-400 (PEG) as well as the sharp increase of the renal loss of fluid under the influence of furosemide insignificantly affected the water contents in the white and grey brain substance. A slight dehydration of the grey substance occured on combination of osmotic gradient effect and the renal loss of fluid. Preservation of initial hydration of the brain within the skull on administration of PEG and furosemide is due to redistribution of the fluid phases: dehydration of cells is followed by an increase in the volume of sodium-containing tissue fluid where upon the amount of sodium and calcium in the tissue practically does not change.", "PMID": 437191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3465", "title": "[Functional-morphologic analysis of several cortico-caudate connections].", "content": "The connections of motor, auditory, vestibular, associative, and visual areas of the cat cerebral cortex with caudate nucleus (CN), their topographical organization and mutual overlapping of their projection areas within CN, were studied. The cortical areas were found to be connected with CN simultaneously with fibers of different diameters, their relation as well as topography of terminals being different within morphologically heterogenous CN. Studies of terminal degeneration in CN after cortical ablations revealed a greater number of cortico-caudate pathways which included the synapses different in their localization, bouton sizes and the degeneration rate. Specifics of the organization of direct connections between functionally different cortical areas with CN in respect to physiological data, are discussed.", "contents": "[Functional-morphologic analysis of several cortico-caudate connections]. The connections of motor, auditory, vestibular, associative, and visual areas of the cat cerebral cortex with caudate nucleus (CN), their topographical organization and mutual overlapping of their projection areas within CN, were studied. The cortical areas were found to be connected with CN simultaneously with fibers of different diameters, their relation as well as topography of terminals being different within morphologically heterogenous CN. Studies of terminal degeneration in CN after cortical ablations revealed a greater number of cortico-caudate pathways which included the synapses different in their localization, bouton sizes and the degeneration rate. Specifics of the organization of direct connections between functionally different cortical areas with CN in respect to physiological data, are discussed.", "PMID": 437195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3466", "title": "[Incorporation of 3H-phenylalanine into the proteins of cerebral neurons and glia during elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex].", "content": "The passive avoidance conditioning enhanced incorporation of 3H-phenylalanine into the total proteins of neurons and glial cells of CA3 hippocampus area and motor cortex, layer V. During the strengthening and maintenance of the reflex (6, 9, and 24 hrs after the learning session), turnover of proteins in the neurons and glial cells of CA3 hippocampus returned (rapidly in neurons, slowly in glia) to the level of active control. In the motor cortex, this decrease did not stop at the evel of active control: protein tureover decreased even below this level in all the cells after 9 hrs while in neuronal nuclei as late as after 24 hours.", "contents": "[Incorporation of 3H-phenylalanine into the proteins of cerebral neurons and glia during elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex]. The passive avoidance conditioning enhanced incorporation of 3H-phenylalanine into the total proteins of neurons and glial cells of CA3 hippocampus area and motor cortex, layer V. During the strengthening and maintenance of the reflex (6, 9, and 24 hrs after the learning session), turnover of proteins in the neurons and glial cells of CA3 hippocampus returned (rapidly in neurons, slowly in glia) to the level of active control. In the motor cortex, this decrease did not stop at the evel of active control: protein tureover decreased even below this level in all the cells after 9 hrs while in neuronal nuclei as late as after 24 hours.", "PMID": 437197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3467", "title": "[Effect of spinal cord section on extravagal diaphragmatic reflexes].", "content": "In anesthetized vagotomized cats breathing under resting conditions, responses of the phrenic motoneurons to tracheal occlusion, and to changes of the lung and chest volumes were studied before and after cordotomy between C6 and T1. The cordotomy did not change the breathing rate whereas the inspiratory period shortened and expiratory one became longer. The cordotomy eliminated the slight shortening of inspiration in response to tracheal occlusion. The slight decrease of inspiratory excitation of phrenic motoneurons and prolongation of the expiration in response to tracheal occlusion remained. After the cordotomy the increase and decrease of chest volumes were not accompanied by any consistent changes in activity of the phrenic motoneurons.", "contents": "[Effect of spinal cord section on extravagal diaphragmatic reflexes]. In anesthetized vagotomized cats breathing under resting conditions, responses of the phrenic motoneurons to tracheal occlusion, and to changes of the lung and chest volumes were studied before and after cordotomy between C6 and T1. The cordotomy did not change the breathing rate whereas the inspiratory period shortened and expiratory one became longer. The cordotomy eliminated the slight shortening of inspiration in response to tracheal occlusion. The slight decrease of inspiratory excitation of phrenic motoneurons and prolongation of the expiration in response to tracheal occlusion remained. After the cordotomy the increase and decrease of chest volumes were not accompanied by any consistent changes in activity of the phrenic motoneurons.", "PMID": 437198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3468", "title": "[Analysis of geometric factors determining the parameters of an extracellularly recorded pyramidal neuron action potential].", "content": "Calculation of general extracellular field characteristics of a pyramidal neuron during generation of action potential included solution of the Laplas equation for extracellular field and Hodgkin--Huxley equations for electrotonic conduction along dendrites and for excitation of soma. The results were compared with available experimental data. The general factor for action potential amplitude near the soma seems to involve the distance from the soma rather than its size.", "contents": "[Analysis of geometric factors determining the parameters of an extracellularly recorded pyramidal neuron action potential]. Calculation of general extracellular field characteristics of a pyramidal neuron during generation of action potential included solution of the Laplas equation for extracellular field and Hodgkin--Huxley equations for electrotonic conduction along dendrites and for excitation of soma. The results were compared with available experimental data. The general factor for action potential amplitude near the soma seems to involve the distance from the soma rather than its size.", "PMID": 437199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3469", "title": "[Effect of oxygen supply on isolated rat heart energetics].", "content": "The total energy expenditure of the rat isolated heart and the external work of the preparation are positively correlated with the oxygen supply of the heart. A positive partial correlation was revealed between the total energy expenditure of the heart and the oxygen supply of the heart at constant external work of the heart which means that the heart efficiency coefficient decreases on an increase in the oxygen supply. By means of calculation of the partial regression of the heart total energy expenditure on external work at a constant oxygen supply, the \"pure\" efficiency coefficient of the heart (i. e. the ratio between an increment in the heart work and the corresponding increment of the total energy expenditure of the heart) was found to be about 41 per cent on the average.", "contents": "[Effect of oxygen supply on isolated rat heart energetics]. The total energy expenditure of the rat isolated heart and the external work of the preparation are positively correlated with the oxygen supply of the heart. A positive partial correlation was revealed between the total energy expenditure of the heart and the oxygen supply of the heart at constant external work of the heart which means that the heart efficiency coefficient decreases on an increase in the oxygen supply. By means of calculation of the partial regression of the heart total energy expenditure on external work at a constant oxygen supply, the \"pure\" efficiency coefficient of the heart (i. e. the ratio between an increment in the heart work and the corresponding increment of the total energy expenditure of the heart) was found to be about 41 per cent on the average.", "PMID": 437200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3470", "title": "[Hemodynamic structure of pressor reactions to vasoactive substances].", "content": "In cats, similar changes of the blood pressure had different hemodynamic structures under the influence of catecholamines or angiotensin. Adrenalin was able to evoke a pressor response by means to either caridac or vascular factor. In the former case, the increase in the cardiac output was induced both by an increasing blood flow towards the heart and by an additive outflow of the blood from the minor to the major circulation; in the latter case, the increase in the general peripheral resistance entailed a decrease in the cardiac output in spite of the augmentation of the venous return which determined a delay of the blood in the minor circulation. The latter variant of interrelationships among hemodynamic parameters can occur under the influence of noradrenaline as well. A combined similarly rendered participation of the cardiac and the vascular factors in the increasing the blood pressure occurs under the influence of angiotensin and sometimes of noradrenaline. The participation of cardiac output in the pressor response may depend on hemodynamic shifts in the minor circulation which either limit or facilitate, or leave unchanged the rate of increment of the cardiac output.", "contents": "[Hemodynamic structure of pressor reactions to vasoactive substances]. In cats, similar changes of the blood pressure had different hemodynamic structures under the influence of catecholamines or angiotensin. Adrenalin was able to evoke a pressor response by means to either caridac or vascular factor. In the former case, the increase in the cardiac output was induced both by an increasing blood flow towards the heart and by an additive outflow of the blood from the minor to the major circulation; in the latter case, the increase in the general peripheral resistance entailed a decrease in the cardiac output in spite of the augmentation of the venous return which determined a delay of the blood in the minor circulation. The latter variant of interrelationships among hemodynamic parameters can occur under the influence of noradrenaline as well. A combined similarly rendered participation of the cardiac and the vascular factors in the increasing the blood pressure occurs under the influence of angiotensin and sometimes of noradrenaline. The participation of cardiac output in the pressor response may depend on hemodynamic shifts in the minor circulation which either limit or facilitate, or leave unchanged the rate of increment of the cardiac output.", "PMID": 437201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3471", "title": "[Changes in the respiration of rabbits in a high pressure nitrogen-oxygen mixture].", "content": "In 14 unanesthetized rabbits, the parameters and the work of respiration, the electrical activity of respiratory muscles, the oxyhemoglobin content in the arterial blood, and the oxygen available in the cerebral cortex were studied in conditions of nitrogen-oxygen mixture (PO=0.2 kgc/cm2) under increased pressure: 6, 10, 20, 30, and 40 kgc/cm2. The 6 kgc/cm2 pressure decreased the lung ventilation, intensified the work of respiration and the electrical activity of external intercostal muscles. The 20--30 kgc/cm2 pressure entailed a gradual drop of the oxyhemoglobin content in the arterial blood and of the oxygen available in the cortex. The 40 kgc/cm2 pressure stopped the breathing in rabbits within 10--30 min. The data obtained reveal a limit of the increase in the density of inspired gas which for rabbits seems to be about 51.29 g/l.", "contents": "[Changes in the respiration of rabbits in a high pressure nitrogen-oxygen mixture]. In 14 unanesthetized rabbits, the parameters and the work of respiration, the electrical activity of respiratory muscles, the oxyhemoglobin content in the arterial blood, and the oxygen available in the cerebral cortex were studied in conditions of nitrogen-oxygen mixture (PO=0.2 kgc/cm2) under increased pressure: 6, 10, 20, 30, and 40 kgc/cm2. The 6 kgc/cm2 pressure decreased the lung ventilation, intensified the work of respiration and the electrical activity of external intercostal muscles. The 20--30 kgc/cm2 pressure entailed a gradual drop of the oxyhemoglobin content in the arterial blood and of the oxygen available in the cortex. The 40 kgc/cm2 pressure stopped the breathing in rabbits within 10--30 min. The data obtained reveal a limit of the increase in the density of inspired gas which for rabbits seems to be about 51.29 g/l.", "PMID": 437202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3472", "title": "[A simplified direct radioimmunoassay for urinary aldosterone (author's transl)].", "content": "A simplified direct radioimmunoassay for urinary acid labile aldosterone was developed. One ml of urine was hydrolysed with 2 ml of 0.2N HCL at 30 degrees C for 16hrs. One tenth ml of hydrolysed urine diluted 10 times with charcoal treated aldosterone-free calf serum was used for the radioimmunoassay. The radioimmunoasssay was done with a specific antibody, 125I-aldosterone, as the labeled antigen and polyethylene glycol for bound-free separation. There were excellent correlations between the present methods and other methods, i.e., i) a method using dichloromethane extraction before the assay as well as pre-extraction before hydrolysis and ii) a commercial kit using 3H-aldosterone. The intra-assay coefficient of variation was 5.8%, and the inter-assay coefficient of variation was 9.5%. The normal value of urinary aldosterone was excretion was 3.7 plus or minus 2.5 micrograms/day by the present method, and values of patients with primary aldosteronism were between 24 to 43 micrograms/day.", "contents": "[A simplified direct radioimmunoassay for urinary aldosterone (author's transl)]. A simplified direct radioimmunoassay for urinary acid labile aldosterone was developed. One ml of urine was hydrolysed with 2 ml of 0.2N HCL at 30 degrees C for 16hrs. One tenth ml of hydrolysed urine diluted 10 times with charcoal treated aldosterone-free calf serum was used for the radioimmunoassay. The radioimmunoasssay was done with a specific antibody, 125I-aldosterone, as the labeled antigen and polyethylene glycol for bound-free separation. There were excellent correlations between the present methods and other methods, i.e., i) a method using dichloromethane extraction before the assay as well as pre-extraction before hydrolysis and ii) a commercial kit using 3H-aldosterone. The intra-assay coefficient of variation was 5.8%, and the inter-assay coefficient of variation was 9.5%. The normal value of urinary aldosterone was excretion was 3.7 plus or minus 2.5 micrograms/day by the present method, and values of patients with primary aldosteronism were between 24 to 43 micrograms/day.", "PMID": 437205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3473", "title": "[A study on the biological action of hypothalamic tridecapeptide, neurotensin (author's transl)].", "content": "Investigations on various kinds of biological actions of a newly purified hypothalamic tridecapeptide, neurotensin, were performed both in vivo and in vitro by utilizing experimental animal models. The effect of neurotensin on pituitary gonadotropin release was studied in ovariectomized estrogen-progesterone-treated rats by the measurement of serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) in radioimmunoassays. Neurotensin (340 mg/100 g BW) significantly increased serum LH and FSH 30 minutes after an intravenous injection (p smaller than 0.05) and lowered serum prolactin concentrations significantly (p less than 0.025). Bradykinin and substance P showed on significant effect on serum LH and FSH release. Intraperitoneal or intravenous administration of 0.5 n.mole neurotensin lowered blood pressure in intact mature rats from the range of 90 approximately 100 mmHg to 50 approximately 60 mmHg; however, tachyphylaxis was observed after repeated injections of the same dose of this peptide. Neurotensin was as potent as bradykinin in inducing rat duodenum relaxation and guinea pig ileum contraction in vitro. Theses effects on neurotensin and bradykinin on the intestines were not inhibited by the pre-treatment of phentolamine, propranolol, methysergide and pyribenzamine. Bradykinin induced contractions of the uterus in proestrous rats, but neurotensin induced no marked contraction. These results suggest that neurotensin in not hypothalamic releasing or inhibiting factor but possess the nature of kinin.", "contents": "[A study on the biological action of hypothalamic tridecapeptide, neurotensin (author's transl)]. Investigations on various kinds of biological actions of a newly purified hypothalamic tridecapeptide, neurotensin, were performed both in vivo and in vitro by utilizing experimental animal models. The effect of neurotensin on pituitary gonadotropin release was studied in ovariectomized estrogen-progesterone-treated rats by the measurement of serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) in radioimmunoassays. Neurotensin (340 mg/100 g BW) significantly increased serum LH and FSH 30 minutes after an intravenous injection (p smaller than 0.05) and lowered serum prolactin concentrations significantly (p less than 0.025). Bradykinin and substance P showed on significant effect on serum LH and FSH release. Intraperitoneal or intravenous administration of 0.5 n.mole neurotensin lowered blood pressure in intact mature rats from the range of 90 approximately 100 mmHg to 50 approximately 60 mmHg; however, tachyphylaxis was observed after repeated injections of the same dose of this peptide. Neurotensin was as potent as bradykinin in inducing rat duodenum relaxation and guinea pig ileum contraction in vitro. Theses effects on neurotensin and bradykinin on the intestines were not inhibited by the pre-treatment of phentolamine, propranolol, methysergide and pyribenzamine. Bradykinin induced contractions of the uterus in proestrous rats, but neurotensin induced no marked contraction. These results suggest that neurotensin in not hypothalamic releasing or inhibiting factor but possess the nature of kinin.", "PMID": 437207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3474", "title": "[Psoriasis vulgaris--decrease of serum immune complexes following photochemotherapy (author's transl)].", "content": "By means of a polyethylene glycol precipitate method [6] circulating immune complexes were examinated in increased concentration in 56 percent of the sera from psoriatic patients. The effect of photochemotherapy with external administration of 8-methoxypsoralen followed by irradiation with UVA was investigated. In 12 of 13 cases the serum immune complex concentration after the therapy was normal.", "contents": "[Psoriasis vulgaris--decrease of serum immune complexes following photochemotherapy (author's transl)]. By means of a polyethylene glycol precipitate method [6] circulating immune complexes were examinated in increased concentration in 56 percent of the sera from psoriatic patients. The effect of photochemotherapy with external administration of 8-methoxypsoralen followed by irradiation with UVA was investigated. In 12 of 13 cases the serum immune complex concentration after the therapy was normal.", "PMID": 437214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3475", "title": "[Catamnestic study about the fertility of the man (author's transl)].", "content": "Collective investigations of fertility in childless married couples were carried out in 9 andrological health centres of the GDR. Analysis of 1937 spermatograms in comparison to fertility after 1 to 2 years shows: (1) Fertility decreases significantly at sperm density nearly 10 million per ml. (2) Motility below 60 per cent caused reduced fertility. Normal motility is more important than normal density of spermatozoa. (3) Fructose level doesn't correlate to motility or fertility of man.", "contents": "[Catamnestic study about the fertility of the man (author's transl)]. Collective investigations of fertility in childless married couples were carried out in 9 andrological health centres of the GDR. Analysis of 1937 spermatograms in comparison to fertility after 1 to 2 years shows: (1) Fertility decreases significantly at sperm density nearly 10 million per ml. (2) Motility below 60 per cent caused reduced fertility. Normal motility is more important than normal density of spermatozoa. (3) Fructose level doesn't correlate to motility or fertility of man.", "PMID": 437215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3476", "title": "[Re-interviews improve source-training in Gonorrhoea (author's transl)].", "content": "A sample should be given to improve the intensity of contact-tracing. Therefore three re-interviews were performed in two groups of patients suffering on gonorrhoea (Group A=1000;Group B=110 persons) with the aim to find out, how many persons could be traced more by re-interviews and could be found infected with gonorrhoea too. By re-interviews 12.0% more contacts could be traced, of whom 55.5% were infected.", "contents": "[Re-interviews improve source-training in Gonorrhoea (author's transl)]. A sample should be given to improve the intensity of contact-tracing. Therefore three re-interviews were performed in two groups of patients suffering on gonorrhoea (Group A=1000;Group B=110 persons) with the aim to find out, how many persons could be traced more by re-interviews and could be found infected with gonorrhoea too. By re-interviews 12.0% more contacts could be traced, of whom 55.5% were infected.", "PMID": 437216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3477", "title": "Werner's syndrome: seven cases in one family.", "content": "7 cases of Werner's syndrome in one family of northern Sardinia (the female : male ratio being 4:3) are reported. A 9-year-old girl affected with Cooley's anemia is reported too. The typical complete pattern of the syndrome was observed in patients in the fourth decade of their lives, whereas in the two youngest ones, some features were missing. 1 patient died of gastric carcinoma, 1 of cachexia. Consanguinity was established in two generations. The genealogical tree suggests an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Genealogical, clinical, biochemical, and histopathological studies were performed. As far as we know, this is the largest number of patients with Werner's syndrome reported in one family.", "contents": "Werner's syndrome: seven cases in one family. 7 cases of Werner's syndrome in one family of northern Sardinia (the female : male ratio being 4:3) are reported. A 9-year-old girl affected with Cooley's anemia is reported too. The typical complete pattern of the syndrome was observed in patients in the fourth decade of their lives, whereas in the two youngest ones, some features were missing. 1 patient died of gastric carcinoma, 1 of cachexia. Consanguinity was established in two generations. The genealogical tree suggests an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Genealogical, clinical, biochemical, and histopathological studies were performed. As far as we know, this is the largest number of patients with Werner's syndrome reported in one family.", "PMID": 437224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3478", "title": "[Palmar and digital varicosis - recurrent thrombophlebitides (author's transl)].", "content": "Venectasias of palms and fingers, more or less developed, occur relatively frequently in elderly people. Other terms are palmar and digital varicosis. This abnormality is rarely observed, but it is clinically important in the case of thrombophlebitis, appearing as small, painful, palpable nodules.", "contents": "[Palmar and digital varicosis - recurrent thrombophlebitides (author's transl)]. Venectasias of palms and fingers, more or less developed, occur relatively frequently in elderly people. Other terms are palmar and digital varicosis. This abnormality is rarely observed, but it is clinically important in the case of thrombophlebitis, appearing as small, painful, palpable nodules.", "PMID": 437225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3479", "title": "Treatment of basal cell carcinoma of the skin with 5-fluorouracil ointment. A 10-year follow-up study.", "content": "During the period 1966-1968, 88 patients with a total of 95 basal cell carcinomas were treated with 5% 5-fluorouracil ointment. A follow-up study carried out from November 1977 to January 1978 revealed a total of 12 recurrences in 56 surviving patients with 56 basal cell carcinomas. The recurrence rate is thus 21.4%. It is concluded that there is hardly any indication for using 5-fluorouracil in local treatment of nodular basal cell carcinoma.", "contents": "Treatment of basal cell carcinoma of the skin with 5-fluorouracil ointment. A 10-year follow-up study. During the period 1966-1968, 88 patients with a total of 95 basal cell carcinomas were treated with 5% 5-fluorouracil ointment. A follow-up study carried out from November 1977 to January 1978 revealed a total of 12 recurrences in 56 surviving patients with 56 basal cell carcinomas. The recurrence rate is thus 21.4%. It is concluded that there is hardly any indication for using 5-fluorouracil in local treatment of nodular basal cell carcinoma.", "PMID": 437226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3480", "title": "Premature multiple Bowen's disease in poikiloderma congenitale with warty hyperkeratoses.", "content": "A constant gradual malignant degeneration of verrucous hyperkeratoses was observed in a now 16-year-old poikiloderma congenitale patient although topical immunotherapy of the warty lesions was partially successful and led to an improvement of T-cell functions.", "contents": "Premature multiple Bowen's disease in poikiloderma congenitale with warty hyperkeratoses. A constant gradual malignant degeneration of verrucous hyperkeratoses was observed in a now 16-year-old poikiloderma congenitale patient although topical immunotherapy of the warty lesions was partially successful and led to an improvement of T-cell functions.", "PMID": 437227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3481", "title": "[Primary disseminated herpesvirus hominis type 2 infection in a healthy adult].", "content": "A healthy 26-year-old patient presented a primary herpetic type 2 infection. The infection disseminated to the skin, the mucosa and the liver. The clinical course of the infection had a favorable issue.", "contents": "[Primary disseminated herpesvirus hominis type 2 infection in a healthy adult]. A healthy 26-year-old patient presented a primary herpetic type 2 infection. The infection disseminated to the skin, the mucosa and the liver. The clinical course of the infection had a favorable issue.", "PMID": 437228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3482", "title": "Human articular cartilage in relation to age, A morphometric study.", "content": "The cell density of the weight-bearing area of normal femoral head cartilage was investigated in 65 cases of both sexes ranging from 6 to 90 years of age. In the maturing cartilage (until about the third decade), the cell density decreases, while in aging cartilage (30-90 years) it remains constant. Our results are in agreement with the main trend of earlier and similar investigations. The reason for contradictory reports is suggested to be due to differences in the selection of criteria for defining 'normal' cartilage. This problem is particularly acute with advancing age, where a great part of the available material shows degenerative changes.", "contents": "Human articular cartilage in relation to age, A morphometric study. The cell density of the weight-bearing area of normal femoral head cartilage was investigated in 65 cases of both sexes ranging from 6 to 90 years of age. In the maturing cartilage (until about the third decade), the cell density decreases, while in aging cartilage (30-90 years) it remains constant. Our results are in agreement with the main trend of earlier and similar investigations. The reason for contradictory reports is suggested to be due to differences in the selection of criteria for defining 'normal' cartilage. This problem is particularly acute with advancing age, where a great part of the available material shows degenerative changes.", "PMID": 437242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3483", "title": "Potentiation of leukemogenicity and infectivity of Rauscher leukemia virus by an enhancing factor present in egg fluids.", "content": "Sequential intraperitoneal administration of a low molecular-weight-enhancing factor, isolated from egg fluids, in mice infected with Rauscher leukemia virus (RLV) significantly stimulated viral replication. This was evidenced by elevated levels of viral DNA-polymerase in mouse sera. This stimulation of viral replication correlated with aggrevation of viral leukemogenicity, as reflected by increment of splenomegalic response and shortening of survival time. The in vivo potentiation of replication and leukemogenicity of RLV is achieved at least partly by the enhancing factor at the cellular level, since RLV replication was found to be stimulated also in an in vitro system. We assume that the stimulatory effect of the enhancing factor on viral replication is connected with its stimulatory effect on the synthesis of cellular DNA.", "contents": "Potentiation of leukemogenicity and infectivity of Rauscher leukemia virus by an enhancing factor present in egg fluids. Sequential intraperitoneal administration of a low molecular-weight-enhancing factor, isolated from egg fluids, in mice infected with Rauscher leukemia virus (RLV) significantly stimulated viral replication. This was evidenced by elevated levels of viral DNA-polymerase in mouse sera. This stimulation of viral replication correlated with aggrevation of viral leukemogenicity, as reflected by increment of splenomegalic response and shortening of survival time. The in vivo potentiation of replication and leukemogenicity of RLV is achieved at least partly by the enhancing factor at the cellular level, since RLV replication was found to be stimulated also in an in vitro system. We assume that the stimulatory effect of the enhancing factor on viral replication is connected with its stimulatory effect on the synthesis of cellular DNA.", "PMID": 437243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3484", "title": "Selected morphological immunocytochemical and growth characteristics of three experimental rat gliomas and of their cells in vitro.", "content": "Tumors of the nervous system were induced in Sprague-Dawley and Long-Evans rats by weekly administrations of 6 mg/kg N-methyl-N-nitrosourea in the drinking water. Three of these tumors, a grade 2 mixed glioma, a grade 2 to 3 astrocytoma and a grade 1 to 2 oligodendroglioma, were established in culture and propagated in vitro. The mixed glioma strain (75SD-G-376) and the astrocytoma line (75SD-G-420) were repeatedly subcultured, cloned at passage 90 and 120 and designated as 75SD-G-376C and 75SD-G-420C clone, respectively. The growth rate of the oligodendroglioma cell strain (77LE-G-180) was very low and the cells died off after the 5th in vitro passage. The glial nature of all lines was ascertained by demonstrating the presence of the S-100 protein in the culture cells. 2 1/2 years after the establishment in vitro of the 75SD-G-376 and 75SD-G-420 primary cultures, mass cultures as well as clones derived from them are still producing S-100 and thus are clearly comparable to the primary cultures, at least in this respect. From a morphological standpoint based on light microscopy, cells of clonal lines with relatively few and short processes differ, however, from cells of primary cultures and their uncloned lines. Therefore, the cell morphology of these clones can be viewed upon as a form of adaptation to the in vitro conditions. It can be concluded that permanent cell lines with well-defined properties can be grown from experimental brain gliomas successfully established in culture and maintained in vitro.", "contents": "Selected morphological immunocytochemical and growth characteristics of three experimental rat gliomas and of their cells in vitro. Tumors of the nervous system were induced in Sprague-Dawley and Long-Evans rats by weekly administrations of 6 mg/kg N-methyl-N-nitrosourea in the drinking water. Three of these tumors, a grade 2 mixed glioma, a grade 2 to 3 astrocytoma and a grade 1 to 2 oligodendroglioma, were established in culture and propagated in vitro. The mixed glioma strain (75SD-G-376) and the astrocytoma line (75SD-G-420) were repeatedly subcultured, cloned at passage 90 and 120 and designated as 75SD-G-376C and 75SD-G-420C clone, respectively. The growth rate of the oligodendroglioma cell strain (77LE-G-180) was very low and the cells died off after the 5th in vitro passage. The glial nature of all lines was ascertained by demonstrating the presence of the S-100 protein in the culture cells. 2 1/2 years after the establishment in vitro of the 75SD-G-376 and 75SD-G-420 primary cultures, mass cultures as well as clones derived from them are still producing S-100 and thus are clearly comparable to the primary cultures, at least in this respect. From a morphological standpoint based on light microscopy, cells of clonal lines with relatively few and short processes differ, however, from cells of primary cultures and their uncloned lines. Therefore, the cell morphology of these clones can be viewed upon as a form of adaptation to the in vitro conditions. It can be concluded that permanent cell lines with well-defined properties can be grown from experimental brain gliomas successfully established in culture and maintained in vitro.", "PMID": 437244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3485", "title": "Effects of murine tumor necrosis factor on heterotransplanted human tumors.", "content": "A partially purified glycoprotein fraction (the G-200 II fraction) obtained from sera of CD-1 mice sensitized with Corynebacterium parvum and treated with endotoxin was designated as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Human melanoma cells exposed to this factor in vitro had decreased tumorigenicity when injected into nude mice. Human melanoma, embryonal adenocarcinoma of the testis and colon carcinoma heterotransplanted in nude mice exhibited regressions in size following intraperitoneal injections of TNF. The responses were related to dose and duration of exposure.", "contents": "Effects of murine tumor necrosis factor on heterotransplanted human tumors. A partially purified glycoprotein fraction (the G-200 II fraction) obtained from sera of CD-1 mice sensitized with Corynebacterium parvum and treated with endotoxin was designated as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Human melanoma cells exposed to this factor in vitro had decreased tumorigenicity when injected into nude mice. Human melanoma, embryonal adenocarcinoma of the testis and colon carcinoma heterotransplanted in nude mice exhibited regressions in size following intraperitoneal injections of TNF. The responses were related to dose and duration of exposure.", "PMID": 437245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3486", "title": "A new concept regarding the origin of the junctional and crevicular epithelium in rat molars.", "content": "The substitution of the internal enamel epithelium by a squamous epithelium during tooth eruption has been studied histologically in rat molars. Just prior to eruption, cytolysis of the connective tissue covering the cusp tip determines hyperplasia in the oral epithelium. A conspicuous infiltration results. Infiltrated undifferentiated cells form distinct cords which seem to be attracted by the internal enamel epithelium. They reaggregate when they come into its contact and form an underlying epithelium. The process starts in the superficial part and progressively extends towards the cervix. Finally, the internal enamel epithelium is expelled when desquamation begins. The lack of mitoses in both stratum intermedium and internal enamel epithelium and the pyknosis observed in the former, clearly show that the cells of the embryonic dental bell do not take part in the formation of the squamous epithelium as some authors still suppose.", "contents": "A new concept regarding the origin of the junctional and crevicular epithelium in rat molars. The substitution of the internal enamel epithelium by a squamous epithelium during tooth eruption has been studied histologically in rat molars. Just prior to eruption, cytolysis of the connective tissue covering the cusp tip determines hyperplasia in the oral epithelium. A conspicuous infiltration results. Infiltrated undifferentiated cells form distinct cords which seem to be attracted by the internal enamel epithelium. They reaggregate when they come into its contact and form an underlying epithelium. The process starts in the superficial part and progressively extends towards the cervix. Finally, the internal enamel epithelium is expelled when desquamation begins. The lack of mitoses in both stratum intermedium and internal enamel epithelium and the pyknosis observed in the former, clearly show that the cells of the embryonic dental bell do not take part in the formation of the squamous epithelium as some authors still suppose.", "PMID": 437246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3487", "title": "Serum theophylline levels in asthmatic children after oral administration of a slow-release aminophylline preparation (Phyllocontin Continus tablets).", "content": "Twenty-seven asthmatic children aged 3--14 years who were considered to need continuous treatment were studied. Fifteen received a low dose of slow-release aminophylline and fifteen a high dose. There was a wide range of serum theophylline levels between individuals for similar doses. Fourteen of twenty children who had five or more levels measured throughout the day had differences between maximum and minimum levels of greater than 4 microgram/ml. The peak levels occurred between 2 and 6 hours after the dose. Only four children had levels exceeding 20 microgram/ml and none was symptomatic. We suggest a dose of 14 mg/kg/dose twice daily which should be reviewed after peak serum theophylline levels are measured.", "contents": "Serum theophylline levels in asthmatic children after oral administration of a slow-release aminophylline preparation (Phyllocontin Continus tablets). Twenty-seven asthmatic children aged 3--14 years who were considered to need continuous treatment were studied. Fifteen received a low dose of slow-release aminophylline and fifteen a high dose. There was a wide range of serum theophylline levels between individuals for similar doses. Fourteen of twenty children who had five or more levels measured throughout the day had differences between maximum and minimum levels of greater than 4 microgram/ml. The peak levels occurred between 2 and 6 hours after the dose. Only four children had levels exceeding 20 microgram/ml and none was symptomatic. We suggest a dose of 14 mg/kg/dose twice daily which should be reviewed after peak serum theophylline levels are measured.", "PMID": 437305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3488", "title": "The problem of the bronchitic patient.", "content": "Chronic bronchitis is probably associated with two distinct processes, 'hypersecretory chronic bronchitis' and 'obstructive chronic bronchitis'. These, however, have common causes and typically chronic bronchitis develops as a result of several factors in conjunction. Smoking, air pollution and infection all predispose to chronic bronchitis and elimination of these hazards can slow the progress of the disease.", "contents": "The problem of the bronchitic patient. Chronic bronchitis is probably associated with two distinct processes, 'hypersecretory chronic bronchitis' and 'obstructive chronic bronchitis'. These, however, have common causes and typically chronic bronchitis develops as a result of several factors in conjunction. Smoking, air pollution and infection all predispose to chronic bronchitis and elimination of these hazards can slow the progress of the disease.", "PMID": 437307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3489", "title": "A comparison of controlled-release aminophylline (Phyllocontin Continus tablets) and sympathomimetic bronchodilators.", "content": "In a crossover trial on twenty-four patients with reversible airways obstruction the rise in FEV1 on Phyllocontin Continus tablets (15%) was comparable to that achieved with Alupent tablets (14%). The usage of inhaled salbutamol and frequency of attacks of wheeziness were both greater when the patients were taking Alupent tablets. In a second study the effect of Phyllocontin tablets and Ventolin tablets both in combination with inhaled Ventolin and alone were examined. It was found that on Phyllocontin tablets alone patients showed a similar improvement (22%) in FEV1 to Ventolin tablets alone (19%). When inhaled Ventolin was added to Phyllocontin tablets a further rise in FEV1 was seen but not when inhaled Ventolin was added to Ventolin tablets.", "contents": "A comparison of controlled-release aminophylline (Phyllocontin Continus tablets) and sympathomimetic bronchodilators. In a crossover trial on twenty-four patients with reversible airways obstruction the rise in FEV1 on Phyllocontin Continus tablets (15%) was comparable to that achieved with Alupent tablets (14%). The usage of inhaled salbutamol and frequency of attacks of wheeziness were both greater when the patients were taking Alupent tablets. In a second study the effect of Phyllocontin tablets and Ventolin tablets both in combination with inhaled Ventolin and alone were examined. It was found that on Phyllocontin tablets alone patients showed a similar improvement (22%) in FEV1 to Ventolin tablets alone (19%). When inhaled Ventolin was added to Phyllocontin tablets a further rise in FEV1 was seen but not when inhaled Ventolin was added to Ventolin tablets.", "PMID": 437308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3490", "title": "A comparative assessment of three bronchodilator preparations in general practice.", "content": "Phyllocontin Continus tablets and Ventolin Spandets were compared in a crossover study in eighteen patients with reversible airways obstruction. Results showed that Phyllocontin Continus tablets produced a highly significant (p less than 0.002) improvement in PEFR compared with Ventolin Spandets. A further comparison of Phyllocontin Continus tablets and Choledyl tablets in nineteen patients with reversible airways obstruction showed that Phyllocontin Continus tablets brought about a greater improvement in PEFR and gave better protection from breathlessness than Choledyl tablets.", "contents": "A comparative assessment of three bronchodilator preparations in general practice. Phyllocontin Continus tablets and Ventolin Spandets were compared in a crossover study in eighteen patients with reversible airways obstruction. Results showed that Phyllocontin Continus tablets produced a highly significant (p less than 0.002) improvement in PEFR compared with Ventolin Spandets. A further comparison of Phyllocontin Continus tablets and Choledyl tablets in nineteen patients with reversible airways obstruction showed that Phyllocontin Continus tablets brought about a greater improvement in PEFR and gave better protection from breathlessness than Choledyl tablets.", "PMID": 437309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3491", "title": "Theophylline levels in patients receiving a controlled-release aminophylline preparation (Phyllocontin Continus tablets).", "content": "The author describes a study which was designed to establish the blood theophylline levels in patients taking a constant dose of controlled-release aminophylline tablets.", "contents": "Theophylline levels in patients receiving a controlled-release aminophylline preparation (Phyllocontin Continus tablets). The author describes a study which was designed to establish the blood theophylline levels in patients taking a constant dose of controlled-release aminophylline tablets.", "PMID": 437310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3492", "title": "General principles in the management of asthma in childhood.", "content": "The author draws upon his extensive experience as a paediatrician to describe the assessment and management of the asthmatic child. The role of various drug therapies is discussed.", "contents": "General principles in the management of asthma in childhood. The author draws upon his extensive experience as a paediatrician to describe the assessment and management of the asthmatic child. The role of various drug therapies is discussed.", "PMID": 437311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3493", "title": "Long-term effects of propylthiouracil-induced neonatal hypothyroidism.", "content": "Hypothyroidism was induced in neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats by adding propylthiouracil to the lactating female's food and water. Behavioral evaluation on a 6-item battery occurred from 70 to 114 days of age. Results indicated long-lasting behavioral changes in the neonatal hypothyroid animals characterized by increased activity and decreased performance on avoidance and escape learning. Serum thyroxine levels were reduced in the hypothyroid animals throughout the 120-day period. Experimental animals also had fewer synaptic contacts in the cerebellar cortex when analyzed at 90 days of age.", "contents": "Long-term effects of propylthiouracil-induced neonatal hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism was induced in neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats by adding propylthiouracil to the lactating female's food and water. Behavioral evaluation on a 6-item battery occurred from 70 to 114 days of age. Results indicated long-lasting behavioral changes in the neonatal hypothyroid animals characterized by increased activity and decreased performance on avoidance and escape learning. Serum thyroxine levels were reduced in the hypothyroid animals throughout the 120-day period. Experimental animals also had fewer synaptic contacts in the cerebellar cortex when analyzed at 90 days of age.", "PMID": 437359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3494", "title": "Developmental and genotypic effects on pituitary-adrenal function and alcohol tolerance in mice.", "content": "Lactating females of 2 lines of mice selectively bred for long (LS) and short (SS) ethanol-induced sleep time (a measure of alcohol tolerance) consumed either tap water or 10% ethanol in tap water on Days 2-14 postpartum. Effects of genotype and neonatal treatment on offspring open-field behavior, alcohol-induced sleep time, and adrenocortical responsiveness to alcohol or saline injection were studied. The LS mice had higher ethanol-induced sleep times than SS mice, and also higher plasma corticosterone levels following alcohol challenge. The LS mice also responded more to saline injection and to novelty stress, suggesting that they were generally more responsive to stressors than SS mice. Significant genotype-dependent effects of neonatal treatment on (1) adrenocortical responsiveness to injection stess and (2) alcohol tolerance were noted. However, these 2 effects did not appear to be causally related. Neonatal treatment had no effect on open-field activity or defecation in either genetic line.", "contents": "Developmental and genotypic effects on pituitary-adrenal function and alcohol tolerance in mice. Lactating females of 2 lines of mice selectively bred for long (LS) and short (SS) ethanol-induced sleep time (a measure of alcohol tolerance) consumed either tap water or 10% ethanol in tap water on Days 2-14 postpartum. Effects of genotype and neonatal treatment on offspring open-field behavior, alcohol-induced sleep time, and adrenocortical responsiveness to alcohol or saline injection were studied. The LS mice had higher ethanol-induced sleep times than SS mice, and also higher plasma corticosterone levels following alcohol challenge. The LS mice also responded more to saline injection and to novelty stress, suggesting that they were generally more responsive to stressors than SS mice. Significant genotype-dependent effects of neonatal treatment on (1) adrenocortical responsiveness to injection stess and (2) alcohol tolerance were noted. However, these 2 effects did not appear to be causally related. Neonatal treatment had no effect on open-field activity or defecation in either genetic line.", "PMID": 437360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3495", "title": "Development of the acoustic startle response in the rat: ontogenetic changes in the magnitude of inhibition by prepulse stimulation.", "content": "Three experiments examined the development of the acoustic startle reflex and its modification by a preliminary stimulus in the infant rat during the 2nd and 3rd postnatal weeks. The 1st experiment employed a white noise S1 (20 msec, 70 dB), the 2nd a cutaneous S1 (.5 msec, .5 mA and 1.0 mA shock), and the 3rd identical S1-S2 pairs (20 msec, 10 kHz, 110 dB tones). The results demonstrate a similar maturation of the prepulse modification pattern over days in the 3 experiments, evidenced mainly in the growth of inhibition. The findings indicate peripheral and central mechanisms that are maturing during the period of life under observation and that contribute to the developmental patterns of modification.", "contents": "Development of the acoustic startle response in the rat: ontogenetic changes in the magnitude of inhibition by prepulse stimulation. Three experiments examined the development of the acoustic startle reflex and its modification by a preliminary stimulus in the infant rat during the 2nd and 3rd postnatal weeks. The 1st experiment employed a white noise S1 (20 msec, 70 dB), the 2nd a cutaneous S1 (.5 msec, .5 mA and 1.0 mA shock), and the 3rd identical S1-S2 pairs (20 msec, 10 kHz, 110 dB tones). The results demonstrate a similar maturation of the prepulse modification pattern over days in the 3 experiments, evidenced mainly in the growth of inhibition. The findings indicate peripheral and central mechanisms that are maturing during the period of life under observation and that contribute to the developmental patterns of modification.", "PMID": 437361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3496", "title": "Influence of neonatal injections of testosterone propionate on sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels in the male house mouse.", "content": "The effects of neonatal testosterone injections on adult male sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels were investigated in several strains of male house mice. Both sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels were increased in the testosterone-treated groups from some strains, but the 2 variables did not change concomitantly.", "contents": "Influence of neonatal injections of testosterone propionate on sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels in the male house mouse. The effects of neonatal testosterone injections on adult male sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels were investigated in several strains of male house mice. Both sexual behavior and plasma testosterone levels were increased in the testosterone-treated groups from some strains, but the 2 variables did not change concomitantly.", "PMID": 437362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3497", "title": "Behavioral effects of rotation between lactating and nonlactating females.", "content": "Rat pups stunted by housing only 8 hr daily with lactating females and 16 hr with nonlactating foster mothers showed a delay in returning to their nest from other parts of the home cage. This delay was not due to changes in activity level or to lack of attraction to the nest, but appeared to be perceptual in nature. Both lactating and nonlactating females caring for stunted litters tended to be more maternal than those caring for control pups. After nutritional rehabilitation, the adult experimental animals showed no deficits in learning a series of visual discrimination problems in a modified version of the Lashley jumping stand procedure with a nonappetitive reinforcement. We compared the results with those obtained when other methods of stunting animals are employed and concluded that different methods of stunting may result in both common and divergent effects on behavior. Although many methods of stunting may produce similar behavioral deficits during the period of food deprivation, after rehabilitation behavioral deficits reported with other techniques of stunting may be due to extranutritional causes rather than to reduced food intake per se.", "contents": "Behavioral effects of rotation between lactating and nonlactating females. Rat pups stunted by housing only 8 hr daily with lactating females and 16 hr with nonlactating foster mothers showed a delay in returning to their nest from other parts of the home cage. This delay was not due to changes in activity level or to lack of attraction to the nest, but appeared to be perceptual in nature. Both lactating and nonlactating females caring for stunted litters tended to be more maternal than those caring for control pups. After nutritional rehabilitation, the adult experimental animals showed no deficits in learning a series of visual discrimination problems in a modified version of the Lashley jumping stand procedure with a nonappetitive reinforcement. We compared the results with those obtained when other methods of stunting animals are employed and concluded that different methods of stunting may result in both common and divergent effects on behavior. Although many methods of stunting may produce similar behavioral deficits during the period of food deprivation, after rehabilitation behavioral deficits reported with other techniques of stunting may be due to extranutritional causes rather than to reduced food intake per se.", "PMID": 437363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3498", "title": "Effects of dichloroacetate on lipid metabolism in isolated rat liver cells.", "content": "Administration of dichloroacetate (DCA) to normal rats resulted in a fall in serum glucose and triglycerides and a rise in ketone bodies. Insulin and cholesterol levels were unchanged. The effects of DCA on lipid metabolism were examined in isolated rat hepatocytes. At 10 mM DCA, the incorporation of tritiated water into fatty acids (saponifiable lipids) was inhibited by 33 +/- 4% (mean +/- SEM, N = 5). No effect on incorporation into cholesterol (measured as nonsaponifiable lipids) was observed. DCA inhibited the incorporation of 14C-glucose into lipid but had no effect on glucose oxidation. Fatty acid oxidation was increased by 76 +/- 7% (mean +/- SEM, N = 6). However, DCA had no effect on the recovery of newly synthesized lipid. Thus, inhibition of tritiated water incorporation into fatty acids represents decreased synthesis rather than increased turnover. DCA did not affect the incorporation of 14C-palmitate into triglycerides or phospholipids. Cell viability, as assessed by incorporation of 3H-isoleucine into protein and trypan blue exclusion, was not affected by DCA. These results suggest that DCA lowers serum triglycerides through inhibition of fatty acid synthesis and stimulation of fatty acid oxidation by liver.", "contents": "Effects of dichloroacetate on lipid metabolism in isolated rat liver cells. Administration of dichloroacetate (DCA) to normal rats resulted in a fall in serum glucose and triglycerides and a rise in ketone bodies. Insulin and cholesterol levels were unchanged. The effects of DCA on lipid metabolism were examined in isolated rat hepatocytes. At 10 mM DCA, the incorporation of tritiated water into fatty acids (saponifiable lipids) was inhibited by 33 +/- 4% (mean +/- SEM, N = 5). No effect on incorporation into cholesterol (measured as nonsaponifiable lipids) was observed. DCA inhibited the incorporation of 14C-glucose into lipid but had no effect on glucose oxidation. Fatty acid oxidation was increased by 76 +/- 7% (mean +/- SEM, N = 6). However, DCA had no effect on the recovery of newly synthesized lipid. Thus, inhibition of tritiated water incorporation into fatty acids represents decreased synthesis rather than increased turnover. DCA did not affect the incorporation of 14C-palmitate into triglycerides or phospholipids. Cell viability, as assessed by incorporation of 3H-isoleucine into protein and trypan blue exclusion, was not affected by DCA. These results suggest that DCA lowers serum triglycerides through inhibition of fatty acid synthesis and stimulation of fatty acid oxidation by liver.", "PMID": 437364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3499", "title": "Downregulation of insulin receptors in obese man.", "content": "In an attempt to determine whether the decreased number of insulin's receptors in obesity is a result of downregulation of the receptors, diazoxide (5 mg/kg/d) was given to 10 obese subjects. Insulin's suppression by diazoxide in these 10 subjects resulted in a mild glucose intolerance and an increase in insulin's receptors in seven of the 10 subjects. The subjects could be divided into three groups by analyzing the Scatchard plots of their insulin receptor studies before and after diazoxide. Four subjects exhibited an increase in both high affinity and low affinity receptors, three showed an increase only in high affinity receptors, and three failed to demonstrate any change in receptors in response to diazoxide. These studies support the concept that the decreased number of insulin's receptors observed in obesity is a result of the downregulation of the receptors and is not the primary, underlying cause of insulin resistance in obesity, although a contributory role cannot be ruled out.", "contents": "Downregulation of insulin receptors in obese man. In an attempt to determine whether the decreased number of insulin's receptors in obesity is a result of downregulation of the receptors, diazoxide (5 mg/kg/d) was given to 10 obese subjects. Insulin's suppression by diazoxide in these 10 subjects resulted in a mild glucose intolerance and an increase in insulin's receptors in seven of the 10 subjects. The subjects could be divided into three groups by analyzing the Scatchard plots of their insulin receptor studies before and after diazoxide. Four subjects exhibited an increase in both high affinity and low affinity receptors, three showed an increase only in high affinity receptors, and three failed to demonstrate any change in receptors in response to diazoxide. These studies support the concept that the decreased number of insulin's receptors observed in obesity is a result of the downregulation of the receptors and is not the primary, underlying cause of insulin resistance in obesity, although a contributory role cannot be ruled out.", "PMID": 437366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3500", "title": "Malformations in infants of diabetic mothers occur before the seventh gestational week. Implications for treatment.", "content": "In the present study we used a developmental morphologic approach to fix the latest time in development at which the malformations commonly reported in infants of diabetic mothers could occur. Developmental morphologic dating shows that the significantly more common congenital malformations in infants of diabetic mothers occur before the seventh week of gestation. This suggests that any therapeutic intervention aimed at decreasing the incidence of congenital malformations must be instituted during the critical early period.", "contents": "Malformations in infants of diabetic mothers occur before the seventh gestational week. Implications for treatment. In the present study we used a developmental morphologic approach to fix the latest time in development at which the malformations commonly reported in infants of diabetic mothers could occur. Developmental morphologic dating shows that the significantly more common congenital malformations in infants of diabetic mothers occur before the seventh week of gestation. This suggests that any therapeutic intervention aimed at decreasing the incidence of congenital malformations must be instituted during the critical early period.", "PMID": 437367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3501", "title": "Circulating glucagon antibodies in children who have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Clinical significance and characterization.", "content": "A substance present in the sera of diabetic children that interferes with the radioimmunoassay for glucagon was found in six of 66 children who were participating in an inpatient study of diabetic control. Detailed studies documented unequivocally that this glucagon-binding substance is a specific antibody to glucagon and is located in the immunoglobulins. In a survey of diabetic children in the outpatient diabetes clinic and in a diabetes summer camp, antibodies to glucagon were found in about 12% of those evaluated. However, no children who had had diabetes for less than three years were found to have antibodies, and there appeared to be an increase with increasing duration of disease of up to greater than 20% at eight years' duration. The presence of glucagon antibodies may be of pathologic significance in that the patients have a greater tendency to develop hypoglycemia than do diabetic children without glucagon antibodies.", "contents": "Circulating glucagon antibodies in children who have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Clinical significance and characterization. A substance present in the sera of diabetic children that interferes with the radioimmunoassay for glucagon was found in six of 66 children who were participating in an inpatient study of diabetic control. Detailed studies documented unequivocally that this glucagon-binding substance is a specific antibody to glucagon and is located in the immunoglobulins. In a survey of diabetic children in the outpatient diabetes clinic and in a diabetes summer camp, antibodies to glucagon were found in about 12% of those evaluated. However, no children who had had diabetes for less than three years were found to have antibodies, and there appeared to be an increase with increasing duration of disease of up to greater than 20% at eight years' duration. The presence of glucagon antibodies may be of pathologic significance in that the patients have a greater tendency to develop hypoglycemia than do diabetic children without glucagon antibodies.", "PMID": 437368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3502", "title": "Factors related to diabetes mellitus in Puerto Rican men.", "content": "Urban-rural comparisons of the prevalence of diabetes were made in a cohort of 2567 rural and 6190 urban participants aged 45 to 64, in the Puerto Rico Heart Health Program. The prevalence of diabetes in the urban population was more than double that in the rural. Consistent with this, blood glucose concentrations were significantly higher in urban than in rural populations. The prevalence of diabetes increased with age and relative weight. It was associated with elevations of serum cholesterol, blood pressure, and fasting serum triglycerides. A positive family history was found more commonly in diabetics than in nondiabetics. If there was a history in both a sibling and a parent, there was at least a threefold increased prevalence over those with no family history. The reason for the higher prevalence of diabetes in the urban than in the rural area is elusive. In obese men, the urban and rural prevalence rates are the same, but, among relatively lean men, the prevalence in the urban area is twice that of the rural men.", "contents": "Factors related to diabetes mellitus in Puerto Rican men. Urban-rural comparisons of the prevalence of diabetes were made in a cohort of 2567 rural and 6190 urban participants aged 45 to 64, in the Puerto Rico Heart Health Program. The prevalence of diabetes in the urban population was more than double that in the rural. Consistent with this, blood glucose concentrations were significantly higher in urban than in rural populations. The prevalence of diabetes increased with age and relative weight. It was associated with elevations of serum cholesterol, blood pressure, and fasting serum triglycerides. A positive family history was found more commonly in diabetics than in nondiabetics. If there was a history in both a sibling and a parent, there was at least a threefold increased prevalence over those with no family history. The reason for the higher prevalence of diabetes in the urban than in the rural area is elusive. In obese men, the urban and rural prevalence rates are the same, but, among relatively lean men, the prevalence in the urban area is twice that of the rural men.", "PMID": 437369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3503", "title": "The effect of age on insulin-degrading activity in rat tissue.", "content": "Insulin-degrading activity was measured in the 100,000g supernatant fraction of muscle, liver, and kidney from rats of varying ages. Young animals (four weeks old) had the highest activity in all three tissues. By seven weeks of age the activity in both muscle and liver had decreased significantly as compared with four-week-old animals. A slight but nonsignificant decrease occurred in kidney. In animals over one year of age the insulin-degrading activity in all three tissues was significantly less than the activities at either four or seven weeks. In contrast the effect of age on degradation of albumin and parathormone was much less marked.", "contents": "The effect of age on insulin-degrading activity in rat tissue. Insulin-degrading activity was measured in the 100,000g supernatant fraction of muscle, liver, and kidney from rats of varying ages. Young animals (four weeks old) had the highest activity in all three tissues. By seven weeks of age the activity in both muscle and liver had decreased significantly as compared with four-week-old animals. A slight but nonsignificant decrease occurred in kidney. In animals over one year of age the insulin-degrading activity in all three tissues was significantly less than the activities at either four or seven weeks. In contrast the effect of age on degradation of albumin and parathormone was much less marked.", "PMID": 437372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3504", "title": "Glycosylated hemoglobins: increased glycosylation of hemoglobin A in diabetic patients.", "content": "The components of the hemoglobin-A1 fraction--hemoglobins A1a--c--arise from nonenzymatic glycosylation of hemoglobin A at the beta-chain N-terminal amino groups and can be resolved from hemoglobin A by cation exchange chromatography. Glycosylation can also occur at the alpha-chain N-terminals as well as the epsilon-amino groups of lysine residues of both alpha- and beta-chains; this results in glycosylated species appearing in the hemoglobin-A fraction. In this study, we determined the extent of hemoglobin-A glycosylation using a colorimetric chemical method specific for the detection of ketoamine-linked hexoses in proteins. We demonstrate increased glycosylation of the main hemoglobin-A fraction in diabetic patients, which correlates significantly (r = 0.72, P less than 0.001) with the hemoglobin-A1 percentage determined by column chromatography in the corresponding hemolysates. This finding provides the basis for the application of this chemical procedure to the measurement of total glycosylation of hemoglobin.", "contents": "Glycosylated hemoglobins: increased glycosylation of hemoglobin A in diabetic patients. The components of the hemoglobin-A1 fraction--hemoglobins A1a--c--arise from nonenzymatic glycosylation of hemoglobin A at the beta-chain N-terminal amino groups and can be resolved from hemoglobin A by cation exchange chromatography. Glycosylation can also occur at the alpha-chain N-terminals as well as the epsilon-amino groups of lysine residues of both alpha- and beta-chains; this results in glycosylated species appearing in the hemoglobin-A fraction. In this study, we determined the extent of hemoglobin-A glycosylation using a colorimetric chemical method specific for the detection of ketoamine-linked hexoses in proteins. We demonstrate increased glycosylation of the main hemoglobin-A fraction in diabetic patients, which correlates significantly (r = 0.72, P less than 0.001) with the hemoglobin-A1 percentage determined by column chromatography in the corresponding hemolysates. This finding provides the basis for the application of this chemical procedure to the measurement of total glycosylation of hemoglobin.", "PMID": 437373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3505", "title": "Theophylline: potentiation of arginine-induced somatostatin release from the isolated rat pancreas.", "content": "Somatostatin's release from the isolated rat pancreas was studied using a perfusion technique. Arginine at a concentration of 19 mM produced a biphasic increase in somatostatin release from the perfused rat pancreas. Both first and second phases of somatostatin's increase are significantly higher in the presence of 1 mM theophylline than in the absence of the drug. These results indicate the possible inclusion of the adenylate cyclase--cyclic AMP system in the regulatory mechanism of rat pancreatic somatostatin secretion.", "contents": "Theophylline: potentiation of arginine-induced somatostatin release from the isolated rat pancreas. Somatostatin's release from the isolated rat pancreas was studied using a perfusion technique. Arginine at a concentration of 19 mM produced a biphasic increase in somatostatin release from the perfused rat pancreas. Both first and second phases of somatostatin's increase are significantly higher in the presence of 1 mM theophylline than in the absence of the drug. These results indicate the possible inclusion of the adenylate cyclase--cyclic AMP system in the regulatory mechanism of rat pancreatic somatostatin secretion.", "PMID": 437374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3506", "title": "Fatty acid desaturation in experimental diabetes mellitus.", "content": "Microsomal fatty acid desaturation is defective in streptozotocin-induced experimental diabetes. This defect is correctable by insulin treatment. The electron transport chain needed for microsomal fatty acid desaturation was studied in liver microsomes of streptozotocin diabetic rats, and the defect was localized to the terminal desaturase enzyme. Cytochrome b5 levels were elevated in the face of decreased fatty acid desaturation and returned to normal after 48 h of insulin treatment; 2 U of regular insulin every 6 h for 24 h repaired the fatty acid desaturation defect, while 0.5 U failed to correct the defect. Both the delta 6 and delta 9 desaturase defects (linoleic acid and stearoyl-CoA desaturation) required similar amounts of insulin and periods of time for correction, although these are different enzymes. This is consistent with the desaturation defect being due to a protein synthetic effect. Diabetic rats treated twice daily with injections of 4 U of NPH insulin showed a \"super\" repair of their desaturase defect by 48 h: delta 9 desaturase activity increased eight times over control activity, while delta 6 desaturase activity increased two and one-half times over control activity. This, together with the fact that delta 6 desaturase activity in diabetes (64% of control) is altered less than is delta 9 desaturase activity (22% of control), indicates that delta 6 desaturase enzyme activity is less responsive to insulin than is delta 9 desaturase enzyme activity. The physiologic significance of altered fatty acid desaturation in diabetes mellitus is unknown.", "contents": "Fatty acid desaturation in experimental diabetes mellitus. Microsomal fatty acid desaturation is defective in streptozotocin-induced experimental diabetes. This defect is correctable by insulin treatment. The electron transport chain needed for microsomal fatty acid desaturation was studied in liver microsomes of streptozotocin diabetic rats, and the defect was localized to the terminal desaturase enzyme. Cytochrome b5 levels were elevated in the face of decreased fatty acid desaturation and returned to normal after 48 h of insulin treatment; 2 U of regular insulin every 6 h for 24 h repaired the fatty acid desaturation defect, while 0.5 U failed to correct the defect. Both the delta 6 and delta 9 desaturase defects (linoleic acid and stearoyl-CoA desaturation) required similar amounts of insulin and periods of time for correction, although these are different enzymes. This is consistent with the desaturation defect being due to a protein synthetic effect. Diabetic rats treated twice daily with injections of 4 U of NPH insulin showed a \"super\" repair of their desaturase defect by 48 h: delta 9 desaturase activity increased eight times over control activity, while delta 6 desaturase activity increased two and one-half times over control activity. This, together with the fact that delta 6 desaturase activity in diabetes (64% of control) is altered less than is delta 9 desaturase activity (22% of control), indicates that delta 6 desaturase enzyme activity is less responsive to insulin than is delta 9 desaturase enzyme activity. The physiologic significance of altered fatty acid desaturation in diabetes mellitus is unknown.", "PMID": 437377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3507", "title": "Splanchnic metabolism of alanine in intact man. Effects of somatostatin and somatostatin plus insulin.", "content": "We examined splanchnic metabolism of alanine in 15 normal males under three sets of conditions: infusion of saline (control studies); infusion of somatostatin (SRIF) (bihormonal deficiency of insulin and glucagon); and infusion of somatostatin plus insulin (selective glucagon deficiency). Net splanchnic alanine uptake (NSAU) remained stable over 2 h during infusion of saline. Infusion of SRIF was associated with a fall in estimated hepatic plasma flow (EHPF) whether or not insulin was infused concomitantly. With SRIF only, arterio-hepatic venous alanine differences increased such that NSAU remained stable over 2 h, despite the fall in EHPF. In contrast, with selective glucagon deficiency, NSAU fell significantly after 2 h, an effect consequent on a fall in EHPF and a delayed fall in arterio-hepatic venous (A-HV) alanine differences. Our studies are compatible with a role for basal glucagon in maintenance of splanchnic extraction of alanine in normal man. However, the SRIF-initiated fall in EHPF may exert an influence on A-HV alanine differences independent of changes in pancreatic hormone secretion.", "contents": "Splanchnic metabolism of alanine in intact man. Effects of somatostatin and somatostatin plus insulin. We examined splanchnic metabolism of alanine in 15 normal males under three sets of conditions: infusion of saline (control studies); infusion of somatostatin (SRIF) (bihormonal deficiency of insulin and glucagon); and infusion of somatostatin plus insulin (selective glucagon deficiency). Net splanchnic alanine uptake (NSAU) remained stable over 2 h during infusion of saline. Infusion of SRIF was associated with a fall in estimated hepatic plasma flow (EHPF) whether or not insulin was infused concomitantly. With SRIF only, arterio-hepatic venous alanine differences increased such that NSAU remained stable over 2 h, despite the fall in EHPF. In contrast, with selective glucagon deficiency, NSAU fell significantly after 2 h, an effect consequent on a fall in EHPF and a delayed fall in arterio-hepatic venous (A-HV) alanine differences. Our studies are compatible with a role for basal glucagon in maintenance of splanchnic extraction of alanine in normal man. However, the SRIF-initiated fall in EHPF may exert an influence on A-HV alanine differences independent of changes in pancreatic hormone secretion.", "PMID": 437378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3508", "title": "Bile acid metabolism in benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis. Comparative studies on the icteric and anicteric phases of a single case.", "content": "Bile acid compositions in the serum, urine, bile, and feces were examined in a typical case of benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis for a period of 3 yr. The serum cholesterol level remained almost constant. The serum and urinary levels of total bile acids increased markedly during the icteric phase but returned to normal toward the anicteric phase. Daily fecal excretion of bile acids in the anicteric phase was about three times the normal value. Bile acids in the bile and feces, and in the serum and urine, mainly consisted of chenodeoxycholic and cholic acids, with little deoxycholic acid even in the anicteric phase. Scarcely any coprostanol was found in the feces. These observations suggest that metabolism by intestinal bacteria was altered in this patient. The ratio of cholic acid/chenodeoxycholic acid in the serum was above 2.0 in the icteric phase but was reduced to 0.9 in the anicteric phase. At least three unusual bile acids, designated as peak 7a, 11, and 13, were detected in the feces. The amount of bile acid in peak 7a reached about 10% of the total in the anicteric phase.", "contents": "Bile acid metabolism in benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis. Comparative studies on the icteric and anicteric phases of a single case. Bile acid compositions in the serum, urine, bile, and feces were examined in a typical case of benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis for a period of 3 yr. The serum cholesterol level remained almost constant. The serum and urinary levels of total bile acids increased markedly during the icteric phase but returned to normal toward the anicteric phase. Daily fecal excretion of bile acids in the anicteric phase was about three times the normal value. Bile acids in the bile and feces, and in the serum and urine, mainly consisted of chenodeoxycholic and cholic acids, with little deoxycholic acid even in the anicteric phase. Scarcely any coprostanol was found in the feces. These observations suggest that metabolism by intestinal bacteria was altered in this patient. The ratio of cholic acid/chenodeoxycholic acid in the serum was above 2.0 in the icteric phase but was reduced to 0.9 in the anicteric phase. At least three unusual bile acids, designated as peak 7a, 11, and 13, were detected in the feces. The amount of bile acid in peak 7a reached about 10% of the total in the anicteric phase.", "PMID": 437403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3509", "title": "Erythromycin ethylsuccinate-induced cholestasis.", "content": "A 52-year-old Caucasian female developed abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice after erythromycin ethylsuccinate administration. Similar symptoms followed the administration of the same drug 5 mo earlier. It is believed that this is the first published case of erythromycin ethylsuccinate-induced cholestasis.", "contents": "Erythromycin ethylsuccinate-induced cholestasis. A 52-year-old Caucasian female developed abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice after erythromycin ethylsuccinate administration. Similar symptoms followed the administration of the same drug 5 mo earlier. It is believed that this is the first published case of erythromycin ethylsuccinate-induced cholestasis.", "PMID": 437404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3510", "title": "Small intestinal biopsy in a patient with Crohn's disease of the duodenum. The spectrum of abnormal findings in the absence of granulomas.", "content": "The case is reported of a patient who presented with an occult anemia that was due to Crohn's disease of the duodenum. The initial evaluation revealed low serum levels of iron, folate, and carotene, and a small bowel series was abnormal but not diagnostic of Crohn's disease. Numerous small intestinal biopsy specimens were obtained from the duodenum and proximal jejunum in an unsuccessful attempt to make a diagnosis. It was shown by radiography and laparotomy 2 yr later that the patient had Crohn's disease of the proximal small intestine. This report provides a detailed analysis of the spectrum of abnormalities found by peroral mucosal biopsy in this patient. These abnormalities were patchy and included flattened mucosa, an abnormal surface epithelium which was infiltrated by large numbers of polymorphonuclear leukoyctes, increased plasma cells and polymorphonuclear leuckocytes within the lamina propria, crypt abscesses, erosions, granulation tissue, and pyloric gland metaplasia, all in the absence of granulomas. Crohn's disease should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of a proximal small bowel mucosal disease, especially when a constellation of acute inflammatory changes is present.", "contents": "Small intestinal biopsy in a patient with Crohn's disease of the duodenum. The spectrum of abnormal findings in the absence of granulomas. The case is reported of a patient who presented with an occult anemia that was due to Crohn's disease of the duodenum. The initial evaluation revealed low serum levels of iron, folate, and carotene, and a small bowel series was abnormal but not diagnostic of Crohn's disease. Numerous small intestinal biopsy specimens were obtained from the duodenum and proximal jejunum in an unsuccessful attempt to make a diagnosis. It was shown by radiography and laparotomy 2 yr later that the patient had Crohn's disease of the proximal small intestine. This report provides a detailed analysis of the spectrum of abnormalities found by peroral mucosal biopsy in this patient. These abnormalities were patchy and included flattened mucosa, an abnormal surface epithelium which was infiltrated by large numbers of polymorphonuclear leukoyctes, increased plasma cells and polymorphonuclear leuckocytes within the lamina propria, crypt abscesses, erosions, granulation tissue, and pyloric gland metaplasia, all in the absence of granulomas. Crohn's disease should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of a proximal small bowel mucosal disease, especially when a constellation of acute inflammatory changes is present.", "PMID": 437405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3511", "title": "Adrenal corticosteroids cause gastrin cell hyperplasia.", "content": "Chronic exogenous high dose adrenal cortical steroid administration to dogs resulted in a 137% increase in G-cell mass with an associated enhancement of peak serum gastrin levels. Adrenalectomy caused a halving of G-cell numbers without significant changes in serum gastrin levels. Adrenal cortical steroids appear to have an important trophic role for the G-cell.", "contents": "Adrenal corticosteroids cause gastrin cell hyperplasia. Chronic exogenous high dose adrenal cortical steroid administration to dogs resulted in a 137% increase in G-cell mass with an associated enhancement of peak serum gastrin levels. Adrenalectomy caused a halving of G-cell numbers without significant changes in serum gastrin levels. Adrenal cortical steroids appear to have an important trophic role for the G-cell.", "PMID": 437419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3512", "title": "The role of intraluminal junction potentials in the generation of the gastric potential difference in man.", "content": "Using flowing isotonic NaCl or flowing molar KCl electrodes, the magnitude of liquid junction potentials between the electrode tip and gastric juice was measured directly, and calculated from electrolyte concentrations in gastric juice according to standard formulas. Gastric transepithelial potential difference was obtained by subtracting the junction potential from the measured gastric potential difference. Junction potentials by direct experiment correlated closely with calculated values. The magnitude of the junction potential was shown to depend on the level of gastric acidity as well as on the nature of the flowing intraluminal electrode. However, transepithelial potential difference was always the same with the two electrode solutions. It is impossible to measure junction potentials with an intraluminal KCl agar electrode, but they must exist because these electrodes did not accurately measure transepithelial potential difference when gastric acidity was high. Pentagastrin caused a transient decline in transepithelial potential difference; this was not observed in patients with pernicious anemia. We conclude that accurate measurement of transepithelial potential difference must include correction for liquid junction potentials, which are sizable when gastric acidity is high. This can best be done with a flowing intraluminal electrode.", "contents": "The role of intraluminal junction potentials in the generation of the gastric potential difference in man. Using flowing isotonic NaCl or flowing molar KCl electrodes, the magnitude of liquid junction potentials between the electrode tip and gastric juice was measured directly, and calculated from electrolyte concentrations in gastric juice according to standard formulas. Gastric transepithelial potential difference was obtained by subtracting the junction potential from the measured gastric potential difference. Junction potentials by direct experiment correlated closely with calculated values. The magnitude of the junction potential was shown to depend on the level of gastric acidity as well as on the nature of the flowing intraluminal electrode. However, transepithelial potential difference was always the same with the two electrode solutions. It is impossible to measure junction potentials with an intraluminal KCl agar electrode, but they must exist because these electrodes did not accurately measure transepithelial potential difference when gastric acidity was high. Pentagastrin caused a transient decline in transepithelial potential difference; this was not observed in patients with pernicious anemia. We conclude that accurate measurement of transepithelial potential difference must include correction for liquid junction potentials, which are sizable when gastric acidity is high. This can best be done with a flowing intraluminal electrode.", "PMID": 437420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3513", "title": "Effects of prolonged administration of metiamide on serum gastrin, gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus, and G-cell population in the rat.", "content": "The effect of prolonged metiamide administration on serum gastrin, gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus, and G-cell population was studied in the rat. A single subcutaneous injection of metiamide (200 mg/kg) at the onset of 16 days of continous treatment with three daily injections was followed by a fivefold increase in serum gastrin level at 4 hr in fasted and at 4 and 6 hr in fed rats. After 16 days of metiamide, the fed rats showed a peak in serum gastrin level of the same magnitude as on day 1, but only at 4 hr. Two hours later, the levels decreased rapidly to basal values. In the fasted animals, the response to metiamide was reduced to a threefold increase at 2 hr. There was no difference in gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus nor in volume density of the G-cells after the prolonged treatment compared with the controls. It is concluded that in spite of rises in serum gastrin, prolonged metiamide medication has no effect on the gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus nor on the G-cell population in the rat. Furthermore, after prolonged treatment, metiamide-induced gastrin release is diminished.", "contents": "Effects of prolonged administration of metiamide on serum gastrin, gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus, and G-cell population in the rat. The effect of prolonged metiamide administration on serum gastrin, gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus, and G-cell population was studied in the rat. A single subcutaneous injection of metiamide (200 mg/kg) at the onset of 16 days of continous treatment with three daily injections was followed by a fivefold increase in serum gastrin level at 4 hr in fasted and at 4 and 6 hr in fed rats. After 16 days of metiamide, the fed rats showed a peak in serum gastrin level of the same magnitude as on day 1, but only at 4 hr. Two hours later, the levels decreased rapidly to basal values. In the fasted animals, the response to metiamide was reduced to a threefold increase at 2 hr. There was no difference in gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus nor in volume density of the G-cells after the prolonged treatment compared with the controls. It is concluded that in spite of rises in serum gastrin, prolonged metiamide medication has no effect on the gastrin content of the antrum and gastric corpus nor on the G-cell population in the rat. Furthermore, after prolonged treatment, metiamide-induced gastrin release is diminished.", "PMID": 437421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3514", "title": "Comparison of acid secretion rates measured by gastric aspiration and by in vivo intragastric titration in healthy human subjects.", "content": "In nine healthy subjects acid secretion rates, measured first by gastric aspiration and then by in vivo intragastric titration to pH 5, were compared. In vivo intragastric titration was initiated by instilling 50, 100, or 700 ml saline (pH 5) into the stomach, followed by a continuous intragastric saline infusion at 3.3 ml/min. Irrespective of the volume of saline used to initiate in vivo intragastric titration, acid secretion rates during titration were two to three times greater than secretion rates during gastric aspiration (P less than 0.005). This difference was not due to transpyloric acid losses during aspiration, since such losses were corrected for by nonabsorbable marker recovery; nor was the difference due to a higher intragastric pH during in vivo titration, since significant differences in acid secretion rates between aspiration and titration persisted when in vivo titration was performed at an acid pH. These findings suggest that in vivo intragastric titration leads to higher measured acid secretory rates than gastric aspiration because the titration method is associated with gastric distention and even small degrees of gastric distention stimulate gastric acid secretion.", "contents": "Comparison of acid secretion rates measured by gastric aspiration and by in vivo intragastric titration in healthy human subjects. In nine healthy subjects acid secretion rates, measured first by gastric aspiration and then by in vivo intragastric titration to pH 5, were compared. In vivo intragastric titration was initiated by instilling 50, 100, or 700 ml saline (pH 5) into the stomach, followed by a continuous intragastric saline infusion at 3.3 ml/min. Irrespective of the volume of saline used to initiate in vivo intragastric titration, acid secretion rates during titration were two to three times greater than secretion rates during gastric aspiration (P less than 0.005). This difference was not due to transpyloric acid losses during aspiration, since such losses were corrected for by nonabsorbable marker recovery; nor was the difference due to a higher intragastric pH during in vivo titration, since significant differences in acid secretion rates between aspiration and titration persisted when in vivo titration was performed at an acid pH. These findings suggest that in vivo intragastric titration leads to higher measured acid secretory rates than gastric aspiration because the titration method is associated with gastric distention and even small degrees of gastric distention stimulate gastric acid secretion.", "PMID": 437422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3515", "title": "Liver collagen synthesis in schistosomiasis mansoni.", "content": "We determined collagen synthetic rates and utilization of key amino acid precursors of collagen in slices of wedge liver biopsy specimens obtained at required surgery from 9 patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis and from 4 control patients. The liver specimens from the patients with schistosomiasis showed advanced fibrosis, with histologic evidence of schistosomiasis alone in four, and both schistosomiasis and chronic active hepatitis in five cases. Liver slices were incubated with radioactive proline, arginine and glutamine, using quantitative assay conditions validated earlier for murine schistosomiasis. Collagen peptide synthesis in slices from all nine fibrotic liver specimens was 4- to 25-fold greater than normal and correlated positively with liver collagen content, which was 2- to 5-fold greater than normal. Free proline, an amino acid that may contribute to regulation of collagen peptide synthesis, was increased in six of the nine fibrotic liver specimens, and proline was actively formed from arginine in liver slices from all specimens. These measurements of the initial steps of collagen biosynthesis in fibrotic human liver are quantitatively similar to those previously made of the same processes in experimental animals.", "contents": "Liver collagen synthesis in schistosomiasis mansoni. We determined collagen synthetic rates and utilization of key amino acid precursors of collagen in slices of wedge liver biopsy specimens obtained at required surgery from 9 patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis and from 4 control patients. The liver specimens from the patients with schistosomiasis showed advanced fibrosis, with histologic evidence of schistosomiasis alone in four, and both schistosomiasis and chronic active hepatitis in five cases. Liver slices were incubated with radioactive proline, arginine and glutamine, using quantitative assay conditions validated earlier for murine schistosomiasis. Collagen peptide synthesis in slices from all nine fibrotic liver specimens was 4- to 25-fold greater than normal and correlated positively with liver collagen content, which was 2- to 5-fold greater than normal. Free proline, an amino acid that may contribute to regulation of collagen peptide synthesis, was increased in six of the nine fibrotic liver specimens, and proline was actively formed from arginine in liver slices from all specimens. These measurements of the initial steps of collagen biosynthesis in fibrotic human liver are quantitatively similar to those previously made of the same processes in experimental animals.", "PMID": 437424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3516", "title": "Biliary mannitol clearance and bile salt output before and during secretin choleresis in the dog.", "content": "The clearance of 14C-mannitol in the bile before and during intravenous secretin was measured in anesthetized dogs receiving a constant infusion of taurocholate. During secretin, bile flow (+80%) and bicarbonate output (+140%) both rose while bile salt output was unchanged (+2.4%). Mannitol clearance increased significantly by 20 +/- 8% (P less than 0.05). The ratio of bile salt output to mannitol clearance fell significantly after secretin by 14 +/- 7% (P less than 0.01). Secretin caused, therefore, a significant rise in mannitol clearance in this canine preparation. This may be due either to a rise in the bile salt independent fraction of canalicular bile or to tubular entry of mannitol.", "contents": "Biliary mannitol clearance and bile salt output before and during secretin choleresis in the dog. The clearance of 14C-mannitol in the bile before and during intravenous secretin was measured in anesthetized dogs receiving a constant infusion of taurocholate. During secretin, bile flow (+80%) and bicarbonate output (+140%) both rose while bile salt output was unchanged (+2.4%). Mannitol clearance increased significantly by 20 +/- 8% (P less than 0.05). The ratio of bile salt output to mannitol clearance fell significantly after secretin by 14 +/- 7% (P less than 0.01). Secretin caused, therefore, a significant rise in mannitol clearance in this canine preparation. This may be due either to a rise in the bile salt independent fraction of canalicular bile or to tubular entry of mannitol.", "PMID": 437425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3517", "title": "Permeability of the diaphragm and fluid resorption from the peritoneal cavity in the rat.", "content": "The ability to remove fluid from the peritoneal cavity is greatly impaired in rats after sealing the diaphragm (abrading such that fibrous tissue forms). The in vivo resorptive capacity of rats with sealed diaphragms was significantly reduced from 12.3 +/- 1.77% . hr-1 in controls to 5.05 +/- 2.53% . hr-1 in rats with sealed diaphragms. The in vitro permeability of isolated diaphragms for mannitol, inulin, and dextrans of mol wt 16,000 and 75,000 was 4.69 +/- 0.74, 1.16 +/- 0.22, 0.54 +/- 0.11, and 0.22 +/- 0.04 cm . sec-1 . 10(-6) for controls, and 0.54 +/- 0.24, 0.19 +/- 0.19, 0.09 +/- 0.03, and 0.08 +/- 0.02 cm . sec-1 . 10(-6) for sealed diaphragms, respectively. The reduction in the permeability of the fibrosed diaphragm to larger molecules could account for the reduced resorptive capacity.", "contents": "Permeability of the diaphragm and fluid resorption from the peritoneal cavity in the rat. The ability to remove fluid from the peritoneal cavity is greatly impaired in rats after sealing the diaphragm (abrading such that fibrous tissue forms). The in vivo resorptive capacity of rats with sealed diaphragms was significantly reduced from 12.3 +/- 1.77% . hr-1 in controls to 5.05 +/- 2.53% . hr-1 in rats with sealed diaphragms. The in vitro permeability of isolated diaphragms for mannitol, inulin, and dextrans of mol wt 16,000 and 75,000 was 4.69 +/- 0.74, 1.16 +/- 0.22, 0.54 +/- 0.11, and 0.22 +/- 0.04 cm . sec-1 . 10(-6) for controls, and 0.54 +/- 0.24, 0.19 +/- 0.19, 0.09 +/- 0.03, and 0.08 +/- 0.02 cm . sec-1 . 10(-6) for sealed diaphragms, respectively. The reduction in the permeability of the fibrosed diaphragm to larger molecules could account for the reduced resorptive capacity.", "PMID": 437426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3518", "title": "Hepatitis B e antigen, DNA polymerase activity, and infection of household contacts with hepatitis B virus.", "content": "To determine if the presence of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and elevated DNA polymerase activity in the serum of chronic HBeAg carriers indicate increased contagiousness in a household setting, the household contacts of 74 carriers were prospectively evaluated for serologic evidence of hepatitis B infection. Thirty of the HBsAg carriers had HBeAg and 44 had anti-HBe. Twenty-eight HBeAg-positive carriers regularly demonstrated elevated DNA polymerase when serially drawn serum samples were analyzed. None of the anti-HBE-positive carriers demonstrated elevation of DNA polymerase activity. Both household contacts of HBeAg-positive and anti-HBe-positive carriers demonstrated serologic evidence of hepatitis B infection (HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc). However, infection was significantly more frequent among spouses and sexual partners of carriers who had either HBeAg (P less than 0.001) or elevated DNA polymerase activity (P less than 0.001). Thus, the data indicate that a particular subpopulation of spouses and sexual partners of hepatitis B carriers are at significantly greater risk for acquiring infection.", "contents": "Hepatitis B e antigen, DNA polymerase activity, and infection of household contacts with hepatitis B virus. To determine if the presence of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and elevated DNA polymerase activity in the serum of chronic HBeAg carriers indicate increased contagiousness in a household setting, the household contacts of 74 carriers were prospectively evaluated for serologic evidence of hepatitis B infection. Thirty of the HBsAg carriers had HBeAg and 44 had anti-HBe. Twenty-eight HBeAg-positive carriers regularly demonstrated elevated DNA polymerase when serially drawn serum samples were analyzed. None of the anti-HBE-positive carriers demonstrated elevation of DNA polymerase activity. Both household contacts of HBeAg-positive and anti-HBe-positive carriers demonstrated serologic evidence of hepatitis B infection (HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc). However, infection was significantly more frequent among spouses and sexual partners of carriers who had either HBeAg (P less than 0.001) or elevated DNA polymerase activity (P less than 0.001). Thus, the data indicate that a particular subpopulation of spouses and sexual partners of hepatitis B carriers are at significantly greater risk for acquiring infection.", "PMID": 437428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3519", "title": "Histometric and serial section observations of the intrahepatic bile ducts in primary biliary cirrhosis.", "content": "Histometric examinations, based on the assumption that hepatic arterial branches and bile ducts run parallel within the portal tracts, suggest that in primary biliary cirrhosis bile ducts with a lumen (the smallest diameter between the subepithelial basal membranes) below 70--80 micron are destroyed. The smaller the ducts, the more they destroyed. Extensive destruction of the ducts was seen more frequently in the nonfibrotic stage of primary biliary cirrhosis than in later stages. Serial sections of the intrahepatic bile ducts in primary biliary cirrhosis revealed three types of periductal lesions preceding the disappearance of bile ducts: (A) periductal cellular reaction including features of chronic nonsuppurative destructive cholangitis, (B) periductal edema, and (C) periductal fibrosis. In the nonfibrotic stage, types A and C were frequent, whereas in the fibrotic stage types A and B were increased, and type C was predominant in the cirrhotic stage.", "contents": "Histometric and serial section observations of the intrahepatic bile ducts in primary biliary cirrhosis. Histometric examinations, based on the assumption that hepatic arterial branches and bile ducts run parallel within the portal tracts, suggest that in primary biliary cirrhosis bile ducts with a lumen (the smallest diameter between the subepithelial basal membranes) below 70--80 micron are destroyed. The smaller the ducts, the more they destroyed. Extensive destruction of the ducts was seen more frequently in the nonfibrotic stage of primary biliary cirrhosis than in later stages. Serial sections of the intrahepatic bile ducts in primary biliary cirrhosis revealed three types of periductal lesions preceding the disappearance of bile ducts: (A) periductal cellular reaction including features of chronic nonsuppurative destructive cholangitis, (B) periductal edema, and (C) periductal fibrosis. In the nonfibrotic stage, types A and C were frequent, whereas in the fibrotic stage types A and B were increased, and type C was predominant in the cirrhotic stage.", "PMID": 437429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3520", "title": "Leukocyte migration inhibition in response to biliary antigens in primary biliary cirrhosis, sclerosing cholangitis, and other chronic liver diseases.", "content": "The leukocyte migration inhibition test has been used to investigate cellular immune responses to antigens in a protein fraction (BPF) of normal human gallbladder bile in patients with a variety of intra- and extrahepatic diseases. Inhibition of leukocyte migration in the presence of BPF was observed in 30 (81%) of 37 patients with PBC, in 8 (80%) of 10 patients with sclerosing cholangitis, and in 7 (26%) of 27 patients with chronic active hepatitis. Only 1 of 31 patients with other liver diseases or with uncomplicated ulcerative colitis showed a similar response to BPF. The BPF was found to contain three antigens which were distinct from plasma proteins. Immunofluorescence studies revealed that one of these antigens appears to be derived from that part of the hepatocellular membrane which forms the bile canaliculus and that a second appears to be associated with the epithelial cell membranes of interlobular and septal bile ducts. The site of origin of the third antigen could not be established. It is suggested that cellular immune responses to biliary antigens could be involved in the progressive bile duct destruction of chronic biliary disease.", "contents": "Leukocyte migration inhibition in response to biliary antigens in primary biliary cirrhosis, sclerosing cholangitis, and other chronic liver diseases. The leukocyte migration inhibition test has been used to investigate cellular immune responses to antigens in a protein fraction (BPF) of normal human gallbladder bile in patients with a variety of intra- and extrahepatic diseases. Inhibition of leukocyte migration in the presence of BPF was observed in 30 (81%) of 37 patients with PBC, in 8 (80%) of 10 patients with sclerosing cholangitis, and in 7 (26%) of 27 patients with chronic active hepatitis. Only 1 of 31 patients with other liver diseases or with uncomplicated ulcerative colitis showed a similar response to BPF. The BPF was found to contain three antigens which were distinct from plasma proteins. Immunofluorescence studies revealed that one of these antigens appears to be derived from that part of the hepatocellular membrane which forms the bile canaliculus and that a second appears to be associated with the epithelial cell membranes of interlobular and septal bile ducts. The site of origin of the third antigen could not be established. It is suggested that cellular immune responses to biliary antigens could be involved in the progressive bile duct destruction of chronic biliary disease.", "PMID": 437430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3521", "title": "Intact hepatocyte theory of impaired drug metabolism in experimental cirrhosis in the rat.", "content": "The elimination of propranolol by perfused livers of rats made cirrhotic by chronic carbon tetrachloride inhalation during phenobarbital treatment has been compared with control animals receiving only phenobarbital. Cirrhosis reduced propranolol clearance at a constant flow of 20 ml/min from 1.43 +/- 0.08 to 1.12 +/- 0.08 ml/min/g liver (P less than 0.025). In addition, an increase in intrahepatic shunting of 15-micron microspheres from 0.41 +/- 0.01 to 9.4 +/- 4.1% was found in cirrhotic livers (P less than 0.05). Finally, in cirrhotic livers, reducing blood flow did not produce the normal rise in hepatic extraction ratio, which actually fell from 0.873 +/- 0.021 at 20 ml/min to 0.836 +/- 0.025 at 15 ml/min and 0.823 +/- 0.026 at 10 ml/min. At each flow the observed extraction was significantly lower than that predicted to result from a reduced enzyme activity alone, consistent with the development of functionally significant intrahepatic shunts. An operational model is proposed that explains impaired drug metabolism in cirrhosis on the basis of the development of intrahepatic shunts which perfuse nonfunctioning tissue, while the remaining blood flow is exposed to a reduced mass of hepatocytes with an apparently normal amount of drug metabolizing enzyme (the intact hepatocyte theory).", "contents": "Intact hepatocyte theory of impaired drug metabolism in experimental cirrhosis in the rat. The elimination of propranolol by perfused livers of rats made cirrhotic by chronic carbon tetrachloride inhalation during phenobarbital treatment has been compared with control animals receiving only phenobarbital. Cirrhosis reduced propranolol clearance at a constant flow of 20 ml/min from 1.43 +/- 0.08 to 1.12 +/- 0.08 ml/min/g liver (P less than 0.025). In addition, an increase in intrahepatic shunting of 15-micron microspheres from 0.41 +/- 0.01 to 9.4 +/- 4.1% was found in cirrhotic livers (P less than 0.05). Finally, in cirrhotic livers, reducing blood flow did not produce the normal rise in hepatic extraction ratio, which actually fell from 0.873 +/- 0.021 at 20 ml/min to 0.836 +/- 0.025 at 15 ml/min and 0.823 +/- 0.026 at 10 ml/min. At each flow the observed extraction was significantly lower than that predicted to result from a reduced enzyme activity alone, consistent with the development of functionally significant intrahepatic shunts. An operational model is proposed that explains impaired drug metabolism in cirrhosis on the basis of the development of intrahepatic shunts which perfuse nonfunctioning tissue, while the remaining blood flow is exposed to a reduced mass of hepatocytes with an apparently normal amount of drug metabolizing enzyme (the intact hepatocyte theory).", "PMID": 437433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3522", "title": "Iodipamide hepatotoxicity in the rat.", "content": "Iodipamide meglumine (Cholografin) has been implicated in several cases of liver injury in patients. The present study was designed to assess the hepatotoxic potential of this drug in rats. Iodipamide administered intraperitoneally or intravenously caused a characteristic type of necrosis which began in the midzonal area and spread to the centrilobular region. Only rats weighing 400 g or more developed necrosis when the dose administered was 2 mmol/kg. Rats weighing 200 g failed to develop liver necrosis even when given 3 mmol/kg. Selenium deficiency and pretreatment with 3-methylcholanthrene protected against liver necrosis due to iodipamide. Phenobarbital pretreatment provided little or no protection. Kidney tubular necrosis was also observed but occurred in young rats and in selenium-deficient rats which developed no liver necrosis. These results indicate that iodipamide is a hepatotoxin in rats. There are a number of factors, age being the most striking, that modify its hepatotoxicity.", "contents": "Iodipamide hepatotoxicity in the rat. Iodipamide meglumine (Cholografin) has been implicated in several cases of liver injury in patients. The present study was designed to assess the hepatotoxic potential of this drug in rats. Iodipamide administered intraperitoneally or intravenously caused a characteristic type of necrosis which began in the midzonal area and spread to the centrilobular region. Only rats weighing 400 g or more developed necrosis when the dose administered was 2 mmol/kg. Rats weighing 200 g failed to develop liver necrosis even when given 3 mmol/kg. Selenium deficiency and pretreatment with 3-methylcholanthrene protected against liver necrosis due to iodipamide. Phenobarbital pretreatment provided little or no protection. Kidney tubular necrosis was also observed but occurred in young rats and in selenium-deficient rats which developed no liver necrosis. These results indicate that iodipamide is a hepatotoxin in rats. There are a number of factors, age being the most striking, that modify its hepatotoxicity.", "PMID": 437434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3523", "title": "Complement alterations in inflammatory bowel disease.", "content": "A prospective evaluation of the activity of the complement system was undertaken in 32 patients at the time of diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, before the onset of therapy. Serum classical pathway components and function were normal, while significant abnormalities of the alternative pathway were found. Depressions of serum properdin and properdin convertase were noted in association with diminished consumption of C3--C9 after reaction with cobra venom. These abnormalities of alternative pathway integrity were most significant in regional enteritis and in ulcerative colitis with extraintestinal complications. Sequential studies extending into clinical remission revealed resolution of all significant abnormalities.", "contents": "Complement alterations in inflammatory bowel disease. A prospective evaluation of the activity of the complement system was undertaken in 32 patients at the time of diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, before the onset of therapy. Serum classical pathway components and function were normal, while significant abnormalities of the alternative pathway were found. Depressions of serum properdin and properdin convertase were noted in association with diminished consumption of C3--C9 after reaction with cobra venom. These abnormalities of alternative pathway integrity were most significant in regional enteritis and in ulcerative colitis with extraintestinal complications. Sequential studies extending into clinical remission revealed resolution of all significant abnormalities.", "PMID": 437435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3524", "title": "Enhanced colonic carcinogenesis with azoxymethane in rats after pancreaticobiliary diversion to mid small bowel.", "content": "Since biliary excretion of metabolites might determine the pattern of intestinal neoplasms induced by azoxymethane, the number and distribution of tumors were studied in rats after pancreaticobiliary diversion to the mid small bowel. Pancreaticobiliary diversion was performed either immediately before the first of 16 weekly injections of azoxymethane or 10 days after the last. Seven months after pancreaticobiliary diversion, persistent ileal hyperplasia was manifested by higher levels of mucosal RNA and DNA compared with controls (34--102%: P less than 0.001), while there was little residual adaptation in the colon. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of fecal bile acids 6--26 wk after pancreaticobiliary diversion showed few differences. Pancreaticobiliary diversion doubled the incidence of colonic tumors, whether operation preceded (P less than 0.005) or followed (P less than 0.02) the course of azoxymethane. Suture-line tumors were common in the small bowel, particularly in the transposed duodenal stump. Despite intense ileal hyperplasia as a consequence of pancreaticobiliary diversion, the ileum remained resistant to chemical carcinogenesis. The potentiation of colonic neoplasms by pancreaticobiliary diversion probably depends on the stimulation of colonic mucosal proliferation.", "contents": "Enhanced colonic carcinogenesis with azoxymethane in rats after pancreaticobiliary diversion to mid small bowel. Since biliary excretion of metabolites might determine the pattern of intestinal neoplasms induced by azoxymethane, the number and distribution of tumors were studied in rats after pancreaticobiliary diversion to the mid small bowel. Pancreaticobiliary diversion was performed either immediately before the first of 16 weekly injections of azoxymethane or 10 days after the last. Seven months after pancreaticobiliary diversion, persistent ileal hyperplasia was manifested by higher levels of mucosal RNA and DNA compared with controls (34--102%: P less than 0.001), while there was little residual adaptation in the colon. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of fecal bile acids 6--26 wk after pancreaticobiliary diversion showed few differences. Pancreaticobiliary diversion doubled the incidence of colonic tumors, whether operation preceded (P less than 0.005) or followed (P less than 0.02) the course of azoxymethane. Suture-line tumors were common in the small bowel, particularly in the transposed duodenal stump. Despite intense ileal hyperplasia as a consequence of pancreaticobiliary diversion, the ileum remained resistant to chemical carcinogenesis. The potentiation of colonic neoplasms by pancreaticobiliary diversion probably depends on the stimulation of colonic mucosal proliferation.", "PMID": 437436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3525", "title": "Esophageal scintigraphy to quantitate esophageal transit (quantitation of esophageal transit).", "content": "None of the tests employed currently to investigate esophageal transit is quantitative. The purpose of this study was to evaluate normal subjects and patients with a variety of esophageal disorders using a scintigraphic technique to quantitate esophageal transit. After oral administration of a bolus of water labeled with 99mTc-sulfur colloid, isotopic count rates were measured over the esophagus employing a gamma-camera on line to a digital computer. Esophageal transit was expressed as the percent emptying for each of the first 15-sec after the initial swallow and for 15-sec intervals after serial swallows. Sixty-two subjects were studied, including: normal volunteers; patients with motor disorders of the esophagus such as achalasia, diffuse esophageal spasm, and scleroderma; and patients with symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux both with and without esophageal motor dysfunction on manometic testing. Esophageal transit was decreased significantly after single and multiple swallows in patients with motor disorders of the esophagus. In addition, esophageal transit was abnormal in patients with reflux disease accompanied by abnormal motor function. In contrast, esophageal transit was normal after a single swallow, but incomplete after serial swallows in patients with reflux associated with normal esophageal motor function on manometry. We conclude that esophageal scintigraphy may be used to evaluate esophageal transit.", "contents": "Esophageal scintigraphy to quantitate esophageal transit (quantitation of esophageal transit). None of the tests employed currently to investigate esophageal transit is quantitative. The purpose of this study was to evaluate normal subjects and patients with a variety of esophageal disorders using a scintigraphic technique to quantitate esophageal transit. After oral administration of a bolus of water labeled with 99mTc-sulfur colloid, isotopic count rates were measured over the esophagus employing a gamma-camera on line to a digital computer. Esophageal transit was expressed as the percent emptying for each of the first 15-sec after the initial swallow and for 15-sec intervals after serial swallows. Sixty-two subjects were studied, including: normal volunteers; patients with motor disorders of the esophagus such as achalasia, diffuse esophageal spasm, and scleroderma; and patients with symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux both with and without esophageal motor dysfunction on manometic testing. Esophageal transit was decreased significantly after single and multiple swallows in patients with motor disorders of the esophagus. In addition, esophageal transit was abnormal in patients with reflux disease accompanied by abnormal motor function. In contrast, esophageal transit was normal after a single swallow, but incomplete after serial swallows in patients with reflux associated with normal esophageal motor function on manometry. We conclude that esophageal scintigraphy may be used to evaluate esophageal transit.", "PMID": 437438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3526", "title": "Mechanism of lower esophageal sphincter stimulation by bombesin in the opossum.", "content": "Effect of intravenously administered bombesin has been studied on the in vivo and in vitro motor function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) of the opossum. Intraesophageal pressures were monitored by an assembly of polyvinyl catheters attached to pressure transducers and a recorder. The catheters were continuously perfused with bubble-free water. Intravenous administration of 5, 10, 30, 50, and 100 ng/kg bombesin stimulated the LES 4, 34, 106, 148, and 130%, respectively, above control values. Atropine and hexamethonium did not antagonize the response of the LES to bombesin. Tetrodotoxin, phentolamine, and reserpine all significantly antagonized the response of the LES to bombesin. The LES stimulatory effect of bombesin injected locally in the left gastric artery (LGA) was antagonized significantly by local administration of phentolamine in the LGA. Experiments performed in vitro (25 ml baths containing oxygenated Krebs solution) showed that bombesin (10(-9) M) increased the tone of LES strips, and the effect was antagonized by phentolamine (10(-6) M). Serum gastrin concentrations increased significantly only 15 min after bombesin administration. It is concluded that bombesin is a potent stimulant of the LES. The mechanism of stimulation involves a direct effect on the smooth muscle as well as an indirect one by an effect on the postganglionic adrenergic neurons releasing norepinephrine.", "contents": "Mechanism of lower esophageal sphincter stimulation by bombesin in the opossum. Effect of intravenously administered bombesin has been studied on the in vivo and in vitro motor function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) of the opossum. Intraesophageal pressures were monitored by an assembly of polyvinyl catheters attached to pressure transducers and a recorder. The catheters were continuously perfused with bubble-free water. Intravenous administration of 5, 10, 30, 50, and 100 ng/kg bombesin stimulated the LES 4, 34, 106, 148, and 130%, respectively, above control values. Atropine and hexamethonium did not antagonize the response of the LES to bombesin. Tetrodotoxin, phentolamine, and reserpine all significantly antagonized the response of the LES to bombesin. The LES stimulatory effect of bombesin injected locally in the left gastric artery (LGA) was antagonized significantly by local administration of phentolamine in the LGA. Experiments performed in vitro (25 ml baths containing oxygenated Krebs solution) showed that bombesin (10(-9) M) increased the tone of LES strips, and the effect was antagonized by phentolamine (10(-6) M). Serum gastrin concentrations increased significantly only 15 min after bombesin administration. It is concluded that bombesin is a potent stimulant of the LES. The mechanism of stimulation involves a direct effect on the smooth muscle as well as an indirect one by an effect on the postganglionic adrenergic neurons releasing norepinephrine.", "PMID": 437439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3527", "title": "Antroduodenal motor response to solid-liquid and homogenized meals.", "content": "The effect of the physical state of food on antroduodenal motor activity and the pattern of the emptying of an aqueous phase marker were examined in 6 healthy volunteers using an intestinal perfusion technique and intraluminal pressure transducers. Ingestion of a solid-liquid meal produced marked phasic changes in pressure in the distal antrum, lasting 92 +/- 10 min (mean +/- SE), while, in contrast, ingestion of the same nutrients in a homogenized state resulted in complete absence of distal antral changes in pressure lasting 133 +/- 12 min. The motor responses of the proximal antrum and duodenum were similar for the two meals. Both meals emptied during a 3-hr period, the pattern of emptying of the aqueous phase marker being similar for the two meals except for the first 40 min, when emptying was more rapid after the solid-liquid meal. The homogenized meal emptied despite the absence of changes in distal antral pressure. The gastrin response was similar for the two meals and is therefore not responsible for the different patterns of antral motility and gastric emptying.", "contents": "Antroduodenal motor response to solid-liquid and homogenized meals. The effect of the physical state of food on antroduodenal motor activity and the pattern of the emptying of an aqueous phase marker were examined in 6 healthy volunteers using an intestinal perfusion technique and intraluminal pressure transducers. Ingestion of a solid-liquid meal produced marked phasic changes in pressure in the distal antrum, lasting 92 +/- 10 min (mean +/- SE), while, in contrast, ingestion of the same nutrients in a homogenized state resulted in complete absence of distal antral changes in pressure lasting 133 +/- 12 min. The motor responses of the proximal antrum and duodenum were similar for the two meals. Both meals emptied during a 3-hr period, the pattern of emptying of the aqueous phase marker being similar for the two meals except for the first 40 min, when emptying was more rapid after the solid-liquid meal. The homogenized meal emptied despite the absence of changes in distal antral pressure. The gastrin response was similar for the two meals and is therefore not responsible for the different patterns of antral motility and gastric emptying.", "PMID": 437442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3528", "title": "Epidemic gastritis with hypochlorhydria.", "content": "Seventeen of 37 healthy volunteers participating in studies of acid secretion and 1 patient with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome became rapidly and profoundly hypochlorhydric. A mild illness with epigastric pain occurred in 9 subjects, usually several days before detection of hypochlorhydria. Gastric mucosal biopsy specimens taken from subjects during hypochlorhydria revealed severe fundal and antral gastritis; however, even when acid secretion was severely depressed, parietal cells were abundant and appeared normal histologically. During hypochlorhydria, gastric permeability to hydrogen, sodium, and lithium was normal in 4 subjects. Serum gastrin concentrations were usually normal, whereas serum pepsinogen concentrations were invariably elevated. Serum parietal cell antibodies were not present. Acid secretion returned to near baseline levels in 14 of 17 subjects after a mean of 126 days (range 53--235); severity of gastritis diminished concurrently in 7 of 10 subjects on whom biopsies were serially performed. An infectious etiology is suspected, although serologic studies and bacterial and conventional viral cultures of stool and gastric juice have not identified a candidate agent.", "contents": "Epidemic gastritis with hypochlorhydria. Seventeen of 37 healthy volunteers participating in studies of acid secretion and 1 patient with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome became rapidly and profoundly hypochlorhydric. A mild illness with epigastric pain occurred in 9 subjects, usually several days before detection of hypochlorhydria. Gastric mucosal biopsy specimens taken from subjects during hypochlorhydria revealed severe fundal and antral gastritis; however, even when acid secretion was severely depressed, parietal cells were abundant and appeared normal histologically. During hypochlorhydria, gastric permeability to hydrogen, sodium, and lithium was normal in 4 subjects. Serum gastrin concentrations were usually normal, whereas serum pepsinogen concentrations were invariably elevated. Serum parietal cell antibodies were not present. Acid secretion returned to near baseline levels in 14 of 17 subjects after a mean of 126 days (range 53--235); severity of gastritis diminished concurrently in 7 of 10 subjects on whom biopsies were serially performed. An infectious etiology is suspected, although serologic studies and bacterial and conventional viral cultures of stool and gastric juice have not identified a candidate agent.", "PMID": 437444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3529", "title": "Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver.", "content": "The case of a 19 yr-old female with abdominal pain, jaundice, and hepatomegaly is reported. A large mass replacing the left hepatic lobe, detected by scintigraphic and angiographic studies and also by means of ultrasound and transhepatic radio-opaque filling, proved to be cystic. A left hepatic lobectomy was performed. Pathologic examination revealed a mesenchymal hamartoma, a rather rare event in view of the patient's age. Prompt recovery followed surgery, and the patient is well and symptomless 1 yr after operation.", "contents": "Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver. The case of a 19 yr-old female with abdominal pain, jaundice, and hepatomegaly is reported. A large mass replacing the left hepatic lobe, detected by scintigraphic and angiographic studies and also by means of ultrasound and transhepatic radio-opaque filling, proved to be cystic. A left hepatic lobectomy was performed. Pathologic examination revealed a mesenchymal hamartoma, a rather rare event in view of the patient's age. Prompt recovery followed surgery, and the patient is well and symptomless 1 yr after operation.", "PMID": 437445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3530", "title": "[On spasm of the bladder sphincter in a case of herpes zoster (author's transl)].", "content": "Report on a 64-year old patient with extensive Herpes zoster of the trunk. The patient presented with urinary retention which stopped after 4 tablets of the chemotherapeutic agent Flumidin. This effect of Flumidin was unknown to the manufacturer and reports on this effect in the literature were not located.", "contents": "[On spasm of the bladder sphincter in a case of herpes zoster (author's transl)]. Report on a 64-year old patient with extensive Herpes zoster of the trunk. The patient presented with urinary retention which stopped after 4 tablets of the chemotherapeutic agent Flumidin. This effect of Flumidin was unknown to the manufacturer and reports on this effect in the literature were not located.", "PMID": 437454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3531", "title": "[Discussion of a spontaneous uretero-colonic fistula with stone formation in the rectum (author's transl)].", "content": "The unusual course of a vesico vagino-rectal fistula with spontaneous development of a uretero-colonic fistula in a patient with carcinoma of the cervix is presented. After a double-barrel colostomy had been performed kidney function remained normal for many years. Because of incontinence of the anal sphincter the urinary drainage has been undisturbed inspite of stone formation in the rectum.", "contents": "[Discussion of a spontaneous uretero-colonic fistula with stone formation in the rectum (author's transl)]. The unusual course of a vesico vagino-rectal fistula with spontaneous development of a uretero-colonic fistula in a patient with carcinoma of the cervix is presented. After a double-barrel colostomy had been performed kidney function remained normal for many years. Because of incontinence of the anal sphincter the urinary drainage has been undisturbed inspite of stone formation in the rectum.", "PMID": 437455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3532", "title": "[Malacoplacia of the vagina, a rare cause of vaginal bleeding (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 74 years old woman who developed bleeding per vaginam following a paroxysm of cough colposcopic inspection revealed a yellowish-brown soft tissue of the mucous membrane of the upper vaginal vault. Microscopical examination showed a typical Malacoplacia of the vagina. Bleeding per vaginam resulted from ruptured vessels of this granulation tissue. This seems to be the 2nd case of a Malacoplacia of the vagina, as far as we are informed.", "contents": "[Malacoplacia of the vagina, a rare cause of vaginal bleeding (author's transl)]. In a 74 years old woman who developed bleeding per vaginam following a paroxysm of cough colposcopic inspection revealed a yellowish-brown soft tissue of the mucous membrane of the upper vaginal vault. Microscopical examination showed a typical Malacoplacia of the vagina. Bleeding per vaginam resulted from ruptured vessels of this granulation tissue. This seems to be the 2nd case of a Malacoplacia of the vagina, as far as we are informed.", "PMID": 437456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3533", "title": "[Endometrial carcino-sarcoma in a young woman with Turner syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "Endometrial carcino-sarcoma is a rare rapidly growing mixed muellerian tumor. The pathogenesis of this tumor is not definitely known. However, the current explanation favors the theory of the growth of this tumor from pluripotential sub-epithelial cells. The incidence of the tumor is increased in post-menopausal women. Many of these women have a history of radiotherapy of the genital organs for benign gynaecological disease. A causal relationship between occurence of carcino-sarcoma and estrogen treatment as in carcinoma of the endometrium is not mentioned in the literature. The clinical signs and symptoms are non-specific as in many other malignant tumors of the uterine body. The prognosis is very bad. The average survival from the onset of the first symptoms is only a few months. The treatment of choice appears to be total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Radical operations and ancillary radiotherapy and chemotherapy do not appear to improve the survival rate. The extremely rare coincidence of a carcino-sarcoma in a young woman with Turner Syndrome gonadal dysgenesis after five years of treatment with estrogen led to the present case report.", "contents": "[Endometrial carcino-sarcoma in a young woman with Turner syndrome (author's transl)]. Endometrial carcino-sarcoma is a rare rapidly growing mixed muellerian tumor. The pathogenesis of this tumor is not definitely known. However, the current explanation favors the theory of the growth of this tumor from pluripotential sub-epithelial cells. The incidence of the tumor is increased in post-menopausal women. Many of these women have a history of radiotherapy of the genital organs for benign gynaecological disease. A causal relationship between occurence of carcino-sarcoma and estrogen treatment as in carcinoma of the endometrium is not mentioned in the literature. The clinical signs and symptoms are non-specific as in many other malignant tumors of the uterine body. The prognosis is very bad. The average survival from the onset of the first symptoms is only a few months. The treatment of choice appears to be total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Radical operations and ancillary radiotherapy and chemotherapy do not appear to improve the survival rate. The extremely rare coincidence of a carcino-sarcoma in a young woman with Turner Syndrome gonadal dysgenesis after five years of treatment with estrogen led to the present case report.", "PMID": 437457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3534", "title": "[Serial determination of hormones in pregnancies following induction of ovulation with clomiphene and gonadotropins (author's transl)].", "content": "The HCG, HPL, progesterone and oestriol levels in the serum were determined in 33 pregnancies following induction of ovulation with clomiphene and in 7 pregnancies following induction of ovulation with gonadotropins. During these pregnancies bleeding, premature labour and toxaemia occurred more often in women who became pregnant after induction of ovulation with clomiphene. The progesterone and oestriol levels were increased up to the 12th week of gestation, whereas the HCG and HPL levels remained normal. After induction of ovulation with gonadotropins the progesterone levels remained elevated until the 19th week of gestation whereas the levels of HCG and HPL and oestriol remained normal. The course of the pregnancy in a patient who had Meigs-syndrome after treatment with gonadotropins was presented. Our results show that the hormonal evaluation of pregnancies after induction of ovulation is best accomplished during the first three months by HCG and HPL titres and during the second half of the pregnancy according to the same criteria as in other pregnancies.", "contents": "[Serial determination of hormones in pregnancies following induction of ovulation with clomiphene and gonadotropins (author's transl)]. The HCG, HPL, progesterone and oestriol levels in the serum were determined in 33 pregnancies following induction of ovulation with clomiphene and in 7 pregnancies following induction of ovulation with gonadotropins. During these pregnancies bleeding, premature labour and toxaemia occurred more often in women who became pregnant after induction of ovulation with clomiphene. The progesterone and oestriol levels were increased up to the 12th week of gestation, whereas the HCG and HPL levels remained normal. After induction of ovulation with gonadotropins the progesterone levels remained elevated until the 19th week of gestation whereas the levels of HCG and HPL and oestriol remained normal. The course of the pregnancy in a patient who had Meigs-syndrome after treatment with gonadotropins was presented. Our results show that the hormonal evaluation of pregnancies after induction of ovulation is best accomplished during the first three months by HCG and HPL titres and during the second half of the pregnancy according to the same criteria as in other pregnancies.", "PMID": 437458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3535", "title": "[Relation between endometritis post abortum and oestrogen levels in the plasma (author's transl)].", "content": "In 13 patients with abortion in the second to fourth months of pregnancy the variation in oestrogen levels in the plasma was determined before and after abrasion of the abortus, using the radioimmunoassay method, and correlated with the results of histological examination of the abraded parts. Seven women without endometritis revealed high oestrogen concentrations before and after the abrasion (mean (1734 pg/ml or 397 pg/ml, respectively). On the fifth day after abrasion the levels corresponded with those of the proliferation phase of the normal menstrual cycle (mean 115 pg/ml). In six women with histologically established endometritis low oestrogen levels were found before and after the abrasion, the mean values being 101 pg/ml and 36 pg/ml, respectively. On the fifth day the values continued to remain low (average 25 pg/ml). The difference in oestrogen concentrations of both groups was significant and correlated well with the results of histological examination of the abraded parts.", "contents": "[Relation between endometritis post abortum and oestrogen levels in the plasma (author's transl)]. In 13 patients with abortion in the second to fourth months of pregnancy the variation in oestrogen levels in the plasma was determined before and after abrasion of the abortus, using the radioimmunoassay method, and correlated with the results of histological examination of the abraded parts. Seven women without endometritis revealed high oestrogen concentrations before and after the abrasion (mean (1734 pg/ml or 397 pg/ml, respectively). On the fifth day after abrasion the levels corresponded with those of the proliferation phase of the normal menstrual cycle (mean 115 pg/ml). In six women with histologically established endometritis low oestrogen levels were found before and after the abrasion, the mean values being 101 pg/ml and 36 pg/ml, respectively. On the fifth day the values continued to remain low (average 25 pg/ml). The difference in oestrogen concentrations of both groups was significant and correlated well with the results of histological examination of the abraded parts.", "PMID": 437459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3536", "title": "[Seasonal fluctuations in the sex ratio of new borns and the influence of the declining birth rate on the sex ratio (author's transl)].", "content": "Seasonal fluctuations in the sex ratio of new borns are investigated. The largest predominance of male deliveries over female deliveries was found to be during the conception months May-June with an almost constant number of deliveries. The highest value was in June. Seasonal maximum of the male to female sex ratio is concomitant to the seasonal maximum of conceptions. The investigation of the yearly sex ratio from 1958-1978 showed changes in the secondary sex ratio concomitant to the increase or decrease of the delivery rate. When the delivery rate decreased below 10 deliveries by 1000 population a reverse in the sex ratio was noted and the lowest number of male deliveries was found. This occurred although the number of first deliveries increased further with the decrease of multiparities. The reasons for this reverse trend in the sex ratio are discussed and a possible relationship to preceeding oral contraception is mentioned.", "contents": "[Seasonal fluctuations in the sex ratio of new borns and the influence of the declining birth rate on the sex ratio (author's transl)]. Seasonal fluctuations in the sex ratio of new borns are investigated. The largest predominance of male deliveries over female deliveries was found to be during the conception months May-June with an almost constant number of deliveries. The highest value was in June. Seasonal maximum of the male to female sex ratio is concomitant to the seasonal maximum of conceptions. The investigation of the yearly sex ratio from 1958-1978 showed changes in the secondary sex ratio concomitant to the increase or decrease of the delivery rate. When the delivery rate decreased below 10 deliveries by 1000 population a reverse in the sex ratio was noted and the lowest number of male deliveries was found. This occurred although the number of first deliveries increased further with the decrease of multiparities. The reasons for this reverse trend in the sex ratio are discussed and a possible relationship to preceeding oral contraception is mentioned.", "PMID": 437460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3537", "title": "[A case of superfetation (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of superfetation is reported. A 23 year old gravida 3, para 1, aborta 1 had a D & C and partial left salpingectomy for ruptured left tubal pregnancy. The microscopic examination of the curettings and the left fallopian tube revealed two pregnancies. The tubal pregnancy was obviously older than the intra-uterine pregnancy and the two fertilized eggs had to result from different ovulations.", "contents": "[A case of superfetation (author's transl)]. A case of superfetation is reported. A 23 year old gravida 3, para 1, aborta 1 had a D & C and partial left salpingectomy for ruptured left tubal pregnancy. The microscopic examination of the curettings and the left fallopian tube revealed two pregnancies. The tubal pregnancy was obviously older than the intra-uterine pregnancy and the two fertilized eggs had to result from different ovulations.", "PMID": 437461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3538", "title": "[Suppurative parotitis in newborns (author's transl)].", "content": "Neonatal suppurative parotitis is described in 6 patients followed by a review of the literature. About 30-40% of the patients were premature, dehydration constitutes a predisposing factor. Infection occurs usually by bacteria ascending the duct. In 5 of our 6 patients infection had been caused by staphylococci; E. coli was found in 2 patients and pseudomonas in 1 patient. The parenteral therapy with antibiotics is usually sufficient.", "contents": "[Suppurative parotitis in newborns (author's transl)]. Neonatal suppurative parotitis is described in 6 patients followed by a review of the literature. About 30-40% of the patients were premature, dehydration constitutes a predisposing factor. Infection occurs usually by bacteria ascending the duct. In 5 of our 6 patients infection had been caused by staphylococci; E. coli was found in 2 patients and pseudomonas in 1 patient. The parenteral therapy with antibiotics is usually sufficient.", "PMID": 437462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3539", "title": "[Contemplations on demographic theories (author's transl)].", "content": "All demographic theories make statements on the relationship between population developments and economic developments. The demographic teachings of Adam Smith, Thomas Robert Malthus, and Karl Marx are embedded in their specific economic theories and contain ideologic statements which are not detrimental to demographic and economic sciences but a stimulus for research. The demographic theories which developed with the onset of the industrial revolution of the 19th century are all sceptical of too high populations independent of their analysis of the market mechanisms or of capitalistic production relationships. This has remained unchanged to date. The statistical evaluation of the 1980's underlines this problem. The reproductive behaviour and demographic theory of a highly industrialized economy can not be based on experience alone but must also be based on rational findings. The rejection of the prestige value of children on the reproductive behaviour which is independent of circumstances must be recognized.", "contents": "[Contemplations on demographic theories (author's transl)]. All demographic theories make statements on the relationship between population developments and economic developments. The demographic teachings of Adam Smith, Thomas Robert Malthus, and Karl Marx are embedded in their specific economic theories and contain ideologic statements which are not detrimental to demographic and economic sciences but a stimulus for research. The demographic theories which developed with the onset of the industrial revolution of the 19th century are all sceptical of too high populations independent of their analysis of the market mechanisms or of capitalistic production relationships. This has remained unchanged to date. The statistical evaluation of the 1980's underlines this problem. The reproductive behaviour and demographic theory of a highly industrialized economy can not be based on experience alone but must also be based on rational findings. The rejection of the prestige value of children on the reproductive behaviour which is independent of circumstances must be recognized.", "PMID": 437463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3540", "title": "[Anaesthesia in gynaecological outpatient treatment with particular reference to methohexital and enfluran (author's transl)].", "content": "Minor operations in gynaecology requiring anaesthesia can often be effected on an outpatient basis if the basic conditions for low-risk narcosis are complied with, such as selection of patients, availability of the necessary facilities in respect of drugs and equipment, professional qualification of the anaesthesiologist. General and specific problems involved in outpatient narcosis and patient care subsequent to anaesthesia. Basing on practical experience, the authors recommend to use the ultra-short acting anaesthetic methohexital to induce anaesthesia, and the inhalation anaesthetic enfluran in combination with a nitrous oxide-oxygen mixture to maintain the anaesthetic condition.", "contents": "[Anaesthesia in gynaecological outpatient treatment with particular reference to methohexital and enfluran (author's transl)]. Minor operations in gynaecology requiring anaesthesia can often be effected on an outpatient basis if the basic conditions for low-risk narcosis are complied with, such as selection of patients, availability of the necessary facilities in respect of drugs and equipment, professional qualification of the anaesthesiologist. General and specific problems involved in outpatient narcosis and patient care subsequent to anaesthesia. Basing on practical experience, the authors recommend to use the ultra-short acting anaesthetic methohexital to induce anaesthesia, and the inhalation anaesthetic enfluran in combination with a nitrous oxide-oxygen mixture to maintain the anaesthetic condition.", "PMID": 437464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3541", "title": "[Ovarian function and vegetative complaints after hysterectomy in normally cycling women (author's transl)].", "content": "The assessment of the hormonal cycle after hysterectomy by means of radioimmunological determination of FSH, LH, Progesterone and Estradiol-17beta in serum and BBT-measurement revealed no obvious difference to a corresponding control-group of preclimacteric and climacteric women. The vegetative climacteric syndrome is much more frequently connected with the stable hypergonadotropic type than with the fluctuating hypergonadotropic or normogonadotropic type. Within the last two groups there is no correlation between vegetative complaints and the exent of ovarian function.", "contents": "[Ovarian function and vegetative complaints after hysterectomy in normally cycling women (author's transl)]. The assessment of the hormonal cycle after hysterectomy by means of radioimmunological determination of FSH, LH, Progesterone and Estradiol-17beta in serum and BBT-measurement revealed no obvious difference to a corresponding control-group of preclimacteric and climacteric women. The vegetative climacteric syndrome is much more frequently connected with the stable hypergonadotropic type than with the fluctuating hypergonadotropic or normogonadotropic type. Within the last two groups there is no correlation between vegetative complaints and the exent of ovarian function.", "PMID": 437465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3542", "title": "[Infusion therapy after vaginal hysterectomy (author's transl)].", "content": "The applicability of a complete solution containing amino acids, electrolytes and calories for post-operative infusion therapy after vaginal hysterectomy was investigated. In the 16 patients examined it was found that using this solution it is possible to maintain a smooth nitrogen balance to a large extent. In a control group of 6 patients who only received an infusion of electrolytes and calories, the nitrogen balance was clearly noncompensated. As even with the complete solution compensation of the nitrogen balance is not achieved until the second day, it is recommended that for patients at risk the infusion treatment should be commenced on the day prior to operation.", "contents": "[Infusion therapy after vaginal hysterectomy (author's transl)]. The applicability of a complete solution containing amino acids, electrolytes and calories for post-operative infusion therapy after vaginal hysterectomy was investigated. In the 16 patients examined it was found that using this solution it is possible to maintain a smooth nitrogen balance to a large extent. In a control group of 6 patients who only received an infusion of electrolytes and calories, the nitrogen balance was clearly noncompensated. As even with the complete solution compensation of the nitrogen balance is not achieved until the second day, it is recommended that for patients at risk the infusion treatment should be commenced on the day prior to operation.", "PMID": 437466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3543", "title": "[Unexpected findings in laparotomy. Clinical and morphological aspects of the malignant hemangiopericytoma (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of hemangiopericytoma with a component of fibrosarcoma is reported. The tumour was diagnosed three years prior to the first operation which was done for increasing growth of the tumour. Three years after the first operation and radiotherapy a local recurrence was removed. Histology of the tumour showed a pure fibrosarcoma. The patient remains well for more than one year after the second operation. Because of the prolonged course without general spread is questionable that retroperitoneal tumours show the same biological propensities as other fibrosarcomas.", "contents": "[Unexpected findings in laparotomy. Clinical and morphological aspects of the malignant hemangiopericytoma (author's transl)]. A case of hemangiopericytoma with a component of fibrosarcoma is reported. The tumour was diagnosed three years prior to the first operation which was done for increasing growth of the tumour. Three years after the first operation and radiotherapy a local recurrence was removed. Histology of the tumour showed a pure fibrosarcoma. The patient remains well for more than one year after the second operation. Because of the prolonged course without general spread is questionable that retroperitoneal tumours show the same biological propensities as other fibrosarcomas.", "PMID": 437468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3544", "title": "[Single vaginal vault recurrences following endometrial carcinoma stage 1 treated by operation (author's transl)].", "content": "From 1950--1975 201 women had total abdominal hysterectomies and bilateral salpingoophorectomies for stage 1 carcinoma of the endometrium, out of a total of 280 endometrial carcinomas. All patients had post-operative external radiation. A prophylactic vaginal radium insertion was not done. Of 191 follow-up cases from between 2 and 10 years following the operation 2 patients had recurrences of the vaginal vault and 2 patients had single vaginal metastases. Based on a study of the literature and the personal results, it is suggested that a prophylactic vaginal radium insertion is justified only in cases of undifferentiated endometrial carcinomas stage 1 group I type G3 with 50% or more tumour invasion of the myometrium.", "contents": "[Single vaginal vault recurrences following endometrial carcinoma stage 1 treated by operation (author's transl)]. From 1950--1975 201 women had total abdominal hysterectomies and bilateral salpingoophorectomies for stage 1 carcinoma of the endometrium, out of a total of 280 endometrial carcinomas. All patients had post-operative external radiation. A prophylactic vaginal radium insertion was not done. Of 191 follow-up cases from between 2 and 10 years following the operation 2 patients had recurrences of the vaginal vault and 2 patients had single vaginal metastases. Based on a study of the literature and the personal results, it is suggested that a prophylactic vaginal radium insertion is justified only in cases of undifferentiated endometrial carcinomas stage 1 group I type G3 with 50% or more tumour invasion of the myometrium.", "PMID": 437469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3545", "title": "[The diagnostic value of lymphography in invasive carcinoma of the cervix stage 1B (author's transl)].", "content": "In invasive carcinoma of the cervix stage 1B our investigations showed 19% lymph node metastases (n = 47) which were verified by operation and microscopic examination. In all of these patients no lympographic evidence of metastases was observed. The value of lymphography in stage 1B invasive carcinoma of the cervix is limited. Since we found 19% false negative results and 0% false positive results, the operation of invasive carcinoma stage 1B of the cervix should therefore include a lympadenectomy which is not dependent on the results of lympography.", "contents": "[The diagnostic value of lymphography in invasive carcinoma of the cervix stage 1B (author's transl)]. In invasive carcinoma of the cervix stage 1B our investigations showed 19% lymph node metastases (n = 47) which were verified by operation and microscopic examination. In all of these patients no lympographic evidence of metastases was observed. The value of lymphography in stage 1B invasive carcinoma of the cervix is limited. Since we found 19% false negative results and 0% false positive results, the operation of invasive carcinoma stage 1B of the cervix should therefore include a lympadenectomy which is not dependent on the results of lympography.", "PMID": 437470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3546", "title": "[A case of carcinoma of the cervix in Turner-syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of carcinoma of the cervix in a patient with Turner-Syndrome is reported. The possible causes of the rare coincidence of these two diseases are discussed.", "contents": "[A case of carcinoma of the cervix in Turner-syndrome (author's transl)]. A case of carcinoma of the cervix in a patient with Turner-Syndrome is reported. The possible causes of the rare coincidence of these two diseases are discussed.", "PMID": 437471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3547", "title": "[Application of computer tomography (CT) as an additional means of follow-up gynecologic neoplasms-a case documentation (author's transl)].", "content": "The application of CT represents an important progress not only in diagnostic and therapeutic planning, but also in the evaluation of the effectiveness of follow-up procedures in gynecologic cancer therapy. The evaluation of the results of some follow-up procedures in a case of leiomyosarcoma uteri shows significance and importance of CT as a new radiologic method. Inspite of preliminary negative results of extensive radiologic, myelographic, laboratory investigations and of technetium- and gallium-scintigraphy, CT proved a solitary metastasis located at S-1 in the os sacrum. The diagnostic aspects of follow-up examinations in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery or radiotherapy are discussed. CT should not be placed at first rank position, but be considered as an helpful additional means for special cases.", "contents": "[Application of computer tomography (CT) as an additional means of follow-up gynecologic neoplasms-a case documentation (author's transl)]. The application of CT represents an important progress not only in diagnostic and therapeutic planning, but also in the evaluation of the effectiveness of follow-up procedures in gynecologic cancer therapy. The evaluation of the results of some follow-up procedures in a case of leiomyosarcoma uteri shows significance and importance of CT as a new radiologic method. Inspite of preliminary negative results of extensive radiologic, myelographic, laboratory investigations and of technetium- and gallium-scintigraphy, CT proved a solitary metastasis located at S-1 in the os sacrum. The diagnostic aspects of follow-up examinations in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery or radiotherapy are discussed. CT should not be placed at first rank position, but be considered as an helpful additional means for special cases.", "PMID": 437472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3548", "title": "[Folate- and iron-deficiency in pregnancy (author's transl)].", "content": "In an open study the influence of a pure iron-therapy (Aktiferrin) and a combined iron-folic-therapy (Aktiferrin F) on the blood and the folate levels in the serum of 60 anaemic pregnant women was compared. The prophylactic administration and the therapy of iron and folate acid in pregnancy is demanded because of the results of this examination.", "contents": "[Folate- and iron-deficiency in pregnancy (author's transl)]. In an open study the influence of a pure iron-therapy (Aktiferrin) and a combined iron-folic-therapy (Aktiferrin F) on the blood and the folate levels in the serum of 60 anaemic pregnant women was compared. The prophylactic administration and the therapy of iron and folate acid in pregnancy is demanded because of the results of this examination.", "PMID": 437473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3549", "title": "[Pregnancy and parturition in multiparae (retrospective study in 203 patients) (author's transl)].", "content": "It is a well-known fact that pregnancy and parturition, as well as the post-partum period and puerperium, present special problems in multiparae. Hence, we compared 203 of our multiparae with the total group of 3251 parturients in respect of these parameters in a retrospective study. The results were as follows: Pregnancy of multiparae is characterized by an increased incidence of monosymptomatic or polysymptomatic EPH gestosis and by diabetes mellitus. In multiparae it was considerably less often necessary to induce labour than with the other parturients. There was in increased incidence of premature rupture, meconium-stained fluid, funicular complications, vagino-operative birth and delivery in sectio. Reduced desire to nurse the baby was significant sign in multiparae. There was also a significant increase in stillbirths and in the delivery of children with a birth weight of more than 4000 g. There was no increased incidence of monstrosities.", "contents": "[Pregnancy and parturition in multiparae (retrospective study in 203 patients) (author's transl)]. It is a well-known fact that pregnancy and parturition, as well as the post-partum period and puerperium, present special problems in multiparae. Hence, we compared 203 of our multiparae with the total group of 3251 parturients in respect of these parameters in a retrospective study. The results were as follows: Pregnancy of multiparae is characterized by an increased incidence of monosymptomatic or polysymptomatic EPH gestosis and by diabetes mellitus. In multiparae it was considerably less often necessary to induce labour than with the other parturients. There was in increased incidence of premature rupture, meconium-stained fluid, funicular complications, vagino-operative birth and delivery in sectio. Reduced desire to nurse the baby was significant sign in multiparae. There was also a significant increase in stillbirths and in the delivery of children with a birth weight of more than 4000 g. There was no increased incidence of monstrosities.", "PMID": 437474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3550", "title": "[Ultrasonographic examinations of the true conjugate (author's transl)].", "content": "The sonographic examination of the true conjugate is described. The results are compared with intraoperative and radiologic measurements. There is a good correlation between these data. In a number of 39 cases the true conjugate was 12.1 cm (MV) intraoperatively and 11.9 cm (MV) echographically. With ultrasonographic measurements during the last month of 776 pregnancies a mean value of 12.0 (+/- 0.8 cm SD) was found. Based on these results one may conclude, that in correlation to the acceleration of the human body growth there is in this material also an increase of the true conjugate, which usually is quoted in the literature to be 11 cm.", "contents": "[Ultrasonographic examinations of the true conjugate (author's transl)]. The sonographic examination of the true conjugate is described. The results are compared with intraoperative and radiologic measurements. There is a good correlation between these data. In a number of 39 cases the true conjugate was 12.1 cm (MV) intraoperatively and 11.9 cm (MV) echographically. With ultrasonographic measurements during the last month of 776 pregnancies a mean value of 12.0 (+/- 0.8 cm SD) was found. Based on these results one may conclude, that in correlation to the acceleration of the human body growth there is in this material also an increase of the true conjugate, which usually is quoted in the literature to be 11 cm.", "PMID": 437475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3551", "title": "[Pregnancy and delivery combined with hereditory angioneurotic edema (author's transl)].", "content": "Two deliveries in a patient combined with hereditory angioneurotic edema are reported. Although even the smallest trauma can lead to life threatening edema the tendency to edema is reduced during pregnancy. Neither in the vagina nor the vulva the deliveries caused edema. The episiotomy did not cause a concomitant edema of the vulva, despite the predilection of the external genital organs for edema. It is possible that a correlation between the gonadotrophin level and the tendency to edema exists in hereditory angioneurotic edema.", "contents": "[Pregnancy and delivery combined with hereditory angioneurotic edema (author's transl)]. Two deliveries in a patient combined with hereditory angioneurotic edema are reported. Although even the smallest trauma can lead to life threatening edema the tendency to edema is reduced during pregnancy. Neither in the vagina nor the vulva the deliveries caused edema. The episiotomy did not cause a concomitant edema of the vulva, despite the predilection of the external genital organs for edema. It is possible that a correlation between the gonadotrophin level and the tendency to edema exists in hereditory angioneurotic edema.", "PMID": 437476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3552", "title": "[The increasing number of extra marital deliveries a sociological phenomenon (author's transl)].", "content": "Recent statistical results show an increase in extra-marital life birth. The number of older women between 26 and 28 years of age who have extra-marital deliveries has especially increased. The number of single parent families has more than doudled in the last three decades. The number of 26--28 year-old women who married following conception and then had marital deliveries has markedly decreased. Does monogamy no longer appear to offer a measure of personal happiness to the older working women? Is the social prestige of marriage and maternity within marriage less attractive to the emancipated woman?", "contents": "[The increasing number of extra marital deliveries a sociological phenomenon (author's transl)]. Recent statistical results show an increase in extra-marital life birth. The number of older women between 26 and 28 years of age who have extra-marital deliveries has especially increased. The number of single parent families has more than doudled in the last three decades. The number of 26--28 year-old women who married following conception and then had marital deliveries has markedly decreased. Does monogamy no longer appear to offer a measure of personal happiness to the older working women? Is the social prestige of marriage and maternity within marriage less attractive to the emancipated woman?", "PMID": 437477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3553", "title": "Aldolase activity and cross-reacting material in lymphocytes of aged individuals.", "content": "Aldolase activity was determined in human lymphocytes from 21 donors aged 18-84 years. The lymphocyte extracts contained exclusively aldolase A isozyme. No significnat difference in enzyme activity between adult (18-41 years) and old (56-84 years) age groups was observed. There was also no significant decrease with age of 'cross-reacting material' as determined with monospecific anti-aldolase A antibodies.", "contents": "Aldolase activity and cross-reacting material in lymphocytes of aged individuals. Aldolase activity was determined in human lymphocytes from 21 donors aged 18-84 years. The lymphocyte extracts contained exclusively aldolase A isozyme. No significnat difference in enzyme activity between adult (18-41 years) and old (56-84 years) age groups was observed. There was also no significant decrease with age of 'cross-reacting material' as determined with monospecific anti-aldolase A antibodies.", "PMID": 437507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3554", "title": "Liver damage associated with perhexiline maleate.", "content": "Two patients who developed biochemical and histological evidence of hepatitis while taking the anti-anginal drug perhexiline maleate are described. The pathological changes were those of mild to moderate fatty change together with a hepatitis which resembled alcoholic hepatitis, including in one patient the presence of material which by light microscopy was indistinguishable from Mallory's alcoholic hyalin. However, the predominantly periportal location of this material contrasted with the centrilobular distribution of Mallory's hyaline. One patient showed, in addition, severe atypia of the hepatocytes which was still present in less pronounced form 10 weeks after stopping perhexiline. The other patient had advanced hepatic fibrosis.", "contents": "Liver damage associated with perhexiline maleate. Two patients who developed biochemical and histological evidence of hepatitis while taking the anti-anginal drug perhexiline maleate are described. The pathological changes were those of mild to moderate fatty change together with a hepatitis which resembled alcoholic hepatitis, including in one patient the presence of material which by light microscopy was indistinguishable from Mallory's alcoholic hyalin. However, the predominantly periportal location of this material contrasted with the centrilobular distribution of Mallory's hyaline. One patient showed, in addition, severe atypia of the hepatocytes which was still present in less pronounced form 10 weeks after stopping perhexiline. The other patient had advanced hepatic fibrosis.", "PMID": 437550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3555", "title": "Changes in hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase in relation to the outcome of acute hepatitis type B.", "content": "Serum levels of hepatitis B virus specific DNA polymerase and hepatitis B e antigen were studied serially in 34 patients with hepatitis B virus infection--20 who had the acute illness and recovered, seven who died with fulminant disease, three who died as a result of subacute hepatic necrosis, and four who went on to develop chronic active hepatitis. DNA polymerase activity was present in 16 (80%) and HBeAg in 13 (65%) of the uncomplicated cases at presentation and in all of those patients from whom the initial sample was obtained before the peak in aminotransferase. Both markers disappeared after 30 days from the onset but DNAP remained persistently positive during a follow-up period of four to 10 months in the four patients who progressed to chronic hepatitis. These results indicate that DNAP and HBeAg are transiently present in all cases of acute hepatitis B. Only their persistence after the acute episode could represent a useful prognostic marker of chronically. In this respect, DNAP was more reliable in our patients than HBeAg. In uncomplicated acute hepatitis, the peak in DNAP levels, which defines the time of maximum virus replication in the liver, preceded the peak in aminotransferase levels. Among the 10 patients who developed massive liver damage after hepatitis B infection, DNAP was detected in five of the seven with fluminant hepatitis, with enzyme levels that were comparable with those observed in uncomplicated acute hepatitis and presentation, but not in the cases of subacute hepatic necrosis. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that in hepatitis B infection, liver damage, whatever the severity, is not directly related to the degree of virus replication.", "contents": "Changes in hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase in relation to the outcome of acute hepatitis type B. Serum levels of hepatitis B virus specific DNA polymerase and hepatitis B e antigen were studied serially in 34 patients with hepatitis B virus infection--20 who had the acute illness and recovered, seven who died with fulminant disease, three who died as a result of subacute hepatic necrosis, and four who went on to develop chronic active hepatitis. DNA polymerase activity was present in 16 (80%) and HBeAg in 13 (65%) of the uncomplicated cases at presentation and in all of those patients from whom the initial sample was obtained before the peak in aminotransferase. Both markers disappeared after 30 days from the onset but DNAP remained persistently positive during a follow-up period of four to 10 months in the four patients who progressed to chronic hepatitis. These results indicate that DNAP and HBeAg are transiently present in all cases of acute hepatitis B. Only their persistence after the acute episode could represent a useful prognostic marker of chronically. In this respect, DNAP was more reliable in our patients than HBeAg. In uncomplicated acute hepatitis, the peak in DNAP levels, which defines the time of maximum virus replication in the liver, preceded the peak in aminotransferase levels. Among the 10 patients who developed massive liver damage after hepatitis B infection, DNAP was detected in five of the seven with fluminant hepatitis, with enzyme levels that were comparable with those observed in uncomplicated acute hepatitis and presentation, but not in the cases of subacute hepatic necrosis. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that in hepatitis B infection, liver damage, whatever the severity, is not directly related to the degree of virus replication.", "PMID": 437551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3556", "title": "Plasma glucagon in diabetes of haemochromatosis: too low or too high?", "content": "Glucagon secretion before and during arginine infusions was tested in 11 patients with diabetes associated with haemochromatosis. The results were compared with those obtained in six normal subjects and five patients with haemochromatosis but normal glucose tolerance. The patients with haemochromatosis, regardless of glucose tolerance, exhibited higer level of plasma immunoreactivity for glucagon (antiserum 30-K) suggesting hyperglucagonaemia. However, additional analysis revealed that a considerable amount of this glucagon immunoreactivity was due to cross-reacting material of high molecular weight, the levels of which were significantly higher in patients with idiopathic haemochromatosis. When this was deducted from the total immunoreactivity measured, the resulting values for true glucagon concentrations were similar to those of normal subjects. The data suggest that (1) patients with idiopathic haemochromatosis, whether or not associated with diabetes, exhibit plasma glucagon levels comparable with those of normal subjects; (2) the plasma of the same patients contains significantly more high-molecular-weight substances reacting with glucagon antiserum 30-K than is present in plasma of normal subjects; and (3) 'hyperglucagonaemia' may be erroneously suggested when glucagon is measured with certain antisera reputed to be specific for glucagon.", "contents": "Plasma glucagon in diabetes of haemochromatosis: too low or too high? Glucagon secretion before and during arginine infusions was tested in 11 patients with diabetes associated with haemochromatosis. The results were compared with those obtained in six normal subjects and five patients with haemochromatosis but normal glucose tolerance. The patients with haemochromatosis, regardless of glucose tolerance, exhibited higer level of plasma immunoreactivity for glucagon (antiserum 30-K) suggesting hyperglucagonaemia. However, additional analysis revealed that a considerable amount of this glucagon immunoreactivity was due to cross-reacting material of high molecular weight, the levels of which were significantly higher in patients with idiopathic haemochromatosis. When this was deducted from the total immunoreactivity measured, the resulting values for true glucagon concentrations were similar to those of normal subjects. The data suggest that (1) patients with idiopathic haemochromatosis, whether or not associated with diabetes, exhibit plasma glucagon levels comparable with those of normal subjects; (2) the plasma of the same patients contains significantly more high-molecular-weight substances reacting with glucagon antiserum 30-K than is present in plasma of normal subjects; and (3) 'hyperglucagonaemia' may be erroneously suggested when glucagon is measured with certain antisera reputed to be specific for glucagon.", "PMID": 437552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3557", "title": "Relationship between endotoxaemia and protein concentration of ascites in cirrhotic patients.", "content": "Endotoxaemia was investigated by the Limulus assay in 42 cirrhotic patients with ascites and in 33 without ascites. The incidence of endotoxaemia in the former group (59.5%) was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in the latter (36.4%). Correlation between endotoxaemia and specific gravity and concentrations of total protein, albumin, and globulin in ascitic fluid was studied in the group with ascites. The specific gravity of ascites in 25 patients with endotoxaemia was significantly greater than that in 17 patients without endotoxaemia (P less than 0.01). The concentration of total protein in patients with endotoxaemia (13.95 +/- 7.18 milligram, mean +/- SD) was nearly twice as high (P less than 0.01) as in patients without endotoxaemia (7.49 +/- 3.60 milligram). The protein content of those who showed reactions greater or equal to 2(+) in the Limulus assay (16.78 +/- 7.14 milligram) was a significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in those with 1(+) reaction (11.26 +/- 6.33 milligram). Moreover, the concentration of albumin in patients with endotoxaemia (7.68 +/- 4.60 milligram) was more than twice that of the patients without endotoxaemia (3.39 +/- 1.58 milligram, P less than 0.01). On the other hand, globulin concentration in patients with endotoxaemia was 1.6 times that of patients without endotoxaemia (P less than 0.01). Similar differences were noted between endotoxaemic and non-endotoxaemic patients in the ascites-to-serum ratio in protein, albumin, and globulin. These results suggest that in liver cirrhosis endotoxaemia may cause an increase in protein concentrations in ascitic fluid, and that it may be a precipitating factor in the formation of ascites.", "contents": "Relationship between endotoxaemia and protein concentration of ascites in cirrhotic patients. Endotoxaemia was investigated by the Limulus assay in 42 cirrhotic patients with ascites and in 33 without ascites. The incidence of endotoxaemia in the former group (59.5%) was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in the latter (36.4%). Correlation between endotoxaemia and specific gravity and concentrations of total protein, albumin, and globulin in ascitic fluid was studied in the group with ascites. The specific gravity of ascites in 25 patients with endotoxaemia was significantly greater than that in 17 patients without endotoxaemia (P less than 0.01). The concentration of total protein in patients with endotoxaemia (13.95 +/- 7.18 milligram, mean +/- SD) was nearly twice as high (P less than 0.01) as in patients without endotoxaemia (7.49 +/- 3.60 milligram). The protein content of those who showed reactions greater or equal to 2(+) in the Limulus assay (16.78 +/- 7.14 milligram) was a significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in those with 1(+) reaction (11.26 +/- 6.33 milligram). Moreover, the concentration of albumin in patients with endotoxaemia (7.68 +/- 4.60 milligram) was more than twice that of the patients without endotoxaemia (3.39 +/- 1.58 milligram, P less than 0.01). On the other hand, globulin concentration in patients with endotoxaemia was 1.6 times that of patients without endotoxaemia (P less than 0.01). Similar differences were noted between endotoxaemic and non-endotoxaemic patients in the ascites-to-serum ratio in protein, albumin, and globulin. These results suggest that in liver cirrhosis endotoxaemia may cause an increase in protein concentrations in ascitic fluid, and that it may be a precipitating factor in the formation of ascites.", "PMID": 437553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3558", "title": "Patchy enteropathy in childhood.", "content": "Two hundred and seventy-eight duodenal biopsy specimens taken consecutively from children using either a single port paediatric Crosby capsule or a double port modification were examined both histologically and by dissecting microscopy, in order to determine the incidence of patchy mucosal lesions. One hundred and six specimens were abnormal and 49 of these were patchy. Patchy lesions occurred most commonly in cow's milk sensitive enteropathy where 66% of 33 specimens were patchy; in comparison all children with undiagnosed coeliac disease taking a normal diet showed a uniformly flat mucosa. Twenty-two per cent of specimens taken using the double port and 10% using the single port capsule were patchy, a statistically significant difference (P = 0.01) using standard errors. Where lesions were uniform, grading by dissecting microscopy correlated well with histological grading; 18 (37%) of specimens were, however, recognised as patchy only on gross appearance. The high incidence of patchy lesions of the proximal small intestine reflected the prevalence of cow's milk protein intolerance and the postenteritis syndrome in these children. The use of the double port capsule and of dissecting microscopy also contributed to the high incidence found.", "contents": "Patchy enteropathy in childhood. Two hundred and seventy-eight duodenal biopsy specimens taken consecutively from children using either a single port paediatric Crosby capsule or a double port modification were examined both histologically and by dissecting microscopy, in order to determine the incidence of patchy mucosal lesions. One hundred and six specimens were abnormal and 49 of these were patchy. Patchy lesions occurred most commonly in cow's milk sensitive enteropathy where 66% of 33 specimens were patchy; in comparison all children with undiagnosed coeliac disease taking a normal diet showed a uniformly flat mucosa. Twenty-two per cent of specimens taken using the double port and 10% using the single port capsule were patchy, a statistically significant difference (P = 0.01) using standard errors. Where lesions were uniform, grading by dissecting microscopy correlated well with histological grading; 18 (37%) of specimens were, however, recognised as patchy only on gross appearance. The high incidence of patchy lesions of the proximal small intestine reflected the prevalence of cow's milk protein intolerance and the postenteritis syndrome in these children. The use of the double port capsule and of dissecting microscopy also contributed to the high incidence found.", "PMID": 437554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3559", "title": "Amylase activity in human bile.", "content": "The mean amylase level in 42 human bile samples was 154 IU/l and there was no significant difference in the amylase activity of 32 paired serum and bile samples. Estimation of the amylase thermolability of bile showed it to be similar to that of serum. This suggests that the amylase activity in bile may have filtered through the liver from the hepatic circulation rather than refluxed from the pancreatic duct. The presence of amylase in human bile provides further evidence that the liver might have a role in the regulation of serum amylase.", "contents": "Amylase activity in human bile. The mean amylase level in 42 human bile samples was 154 IU/l and there was no significant difference in the amylase activity of 32 paired serum and bile samples. Estimation of the amylase thermolability of bile showed it to be similar to that of serum. This suggests that the amylase activity in bile may have filtered through the liver from the hepatic circulation rather than refluxed from the pancreatic duct. The presence of amylase in human bile provides further evidence that the liver might have a role in the regulation of serum amylase.", "PMID": 437555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3560", "title": "Effects of age, antigen deprivation, and allograft rejection on epithelial cell kinetics in mouse colon.", "content": "A technique of microdissection of colonic mucosa has allowed the study of mitotic activity, measured by metaphase accumulation following colchicine blockade, in individual crypts of mouse colon. The changes occurring during growth and development of normal colon have been studied and compared with changes found in antigen free colon (colonic isografts) and in cell-mediated immune damage of the bowel (allograft rejection). Metaphase accumulation was steady at two metaphases per hour in baby mouse colon until 18 days after birth. Between 18 and 24 days a rapid, and significant increase in mitotic activity occurred (P less than 0.01), reached adult values, and changed no further. Metaphase accumulation in isografts was similar to normal colon for the first two weeks after transplantation but the rise in mitotic activity in the third week did not occur. Allografts of colon showed two- to three-fold increases in metaphase accumulation when compared with both normal colon and isografts (P less than 0.01). When crypt mitotic activity was compared with the length of crypts measured in histological sections of normal colon, isografts, and allografts, no clear relationship was observed. Both changes in the luminal environment of the gut at the time of weaning and cell-mediated immune reactions in the colonic wall appeared to be associated with increased mitotic activity in colonic crypts.", "contents": "Effects of age, antigen deprivation, and allograft rejection on epithelial cell kinetics in mouse colon. A technique of microdissection of colonic mucosa has allowed the study of mitotic activity, measured by metaphase accumulation following colchicine blockade, in individual crypts of mouse colon. The changes occurring during growth and development of normal colon have been studied and compared with changes found in antigen free colon (colonic isografts) and in cell-mediated immune damage of the bowel (allograft rejection). Metaphase accumulation was steady at two metaphases per hour in baby mouse colon until 18 days after birth. Between 18 and 24 days a rapid, and significant increase in mitotic activity occurred (P less than 0.01), reached adult values, and changed no further. Metaphase accumulation in isografts was similar to normal colon for the first two weeks after transplantation but the rise in mitotic activity in the third week did not occur. Allografts of colon showed two- to three-fold increases in metaphase accumulation when compared with both normal colon and isografts (P less than 0.01). When crypt mitotic activity was compared with the length of crypts measured in histological sections of normal colon, isografts, and allografts, no clear relationship was observed. Both changes in the luminal environment of the gut at the time of weaning and cell-mediated immune reactions in the colonic wall appeared to be associated with increased mitotic activity in colonic crypts.", "PMID": 437556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3561", "title": "Colonic adenomas--a colonoscopy survey.", "content": "A colonoscopy survey of 620 patients with 1049 colon adenomas showed a predominantly left-sided distribution (77%). Of these lesions 97% were amenable to endoscopic removal or ablation. Sixty per cent of patients presented with rectal bleeding as their major symptom. There was agreement between radiology and colonoscopy in only 62% of patients, as many of the studies were single contrast barium enemas, performed before referral. Forty-eight per cent of adenomas in our series were less than 1.0 cm in diameter. Of the larger adenomas (greater than 2.0 cm in diameter) 66% were situated in the sigmoid colon, and of those containing invasive carcinoma (4.8% of the total) an even higher percentage (94%) were in the sigmoid and low descending colon. With increasing polyp size, there was a greater predominance of villous elements and this was associated with a higher risk of malignant change than the more frequent and generally smaller tubular adenoma. Local colonoscopic excision alone is sufficient treatment for adenomas with malignant change unless they are poorly differentiated histologically and providing adequate resection is demonstrated. Twenty-eight patients treated in this way are alive without recurrence at periods from six to 62 months. Although 65% of patients had only one adenoma, and 90% three or less, there is a risk of developing other benign and malignant colon neoplasms and careful follow-up is required.", "contents": "Colonic adenomas--a colonoscopy survey. A colonoscopy survey of 620 patients with 1049 colon adenomas showed a predominantly left-sided distribution (77%). Of these lesions 97% were amenable to endoscopic removal or ablation. Sixty per cent of patients presented with rectal bleeding as their major symptom. There was agreement between radiology and colonoscopy in only 62% of patients, as many of the studies were single contrast barium enemas, performed before referral. Forty-eight per cent of adenomas in our series were less than 1.0 cm in diameter. Of the larger adenomas (greater than 2.0 cm in diameter) 66% were situated in the sigmoid colon, and of those containing invasive carcinoma (4.8% of the total) an even higher percentage (94%) were in the sigmoid and low descending colon. With increasing polyp size, there was a greater predominance of villous elements and this was associated with a higher risk of malignant change than the more frequent and generally smaller tubular adenoma. Local colonoscopic excision alone is sufficient treatment for adenomas with malignant change unless they are poorly differentiated histologically and providing adequate resection is demonstrated. Twenty-eight patients treated in this way are alive without recurrence at periods from six to 62 months. Although 65% of patients had only one adenoma, and 90% three or less, there is a risk of developing other benign and malignant colon neoplasms and careful follow-up is required.", "PMID": 437557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3562", "title": "Cell proliferation in the human gallbladder epithelium: effect of distension.", "content": "DNA synthesis activity in the epithelium of the human gallbladder was studied through in vitro labelling of mucosal specimens with 3H-thymidine and autoradiography. The specimens were taken at the time of a surgical operation. Eight 'normal' gallbladders and six distended gallbladders from patients with carcinomatous obstruction of the common bile duct were examined. Proliferative activity was very low in the normal and significantly higher in the distended gallbladders.", "contents": "Cell proliferation in the human gallbladder epithelium: effect of distension. DNA synthesis activity in the epithelium of the human gallbladder was studied through in vitro labelling of mucosal specimens with 3H-thymidine and autoradiography. The specimens were taken at the time of a surgical operation. Eight 'normal' gallbladders and six distended gallbladders from patients with carcinomatous obstruction of the common bile duct were examined. Proliferative activity was very low in the normal and significantly higher in the distended gallbladders.", "PMID": 437558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3563", "title": "5'-Nucleotidase of L 1210 cells. Cytochemical and kinetic studies.", "content": "The activity of 5'-nucleotidase in L 1210 leukaemia cells fixed in situ by glutaraldehyde was established by electron microscopic cytochemistry and biochemical assays. The enzyme activity is localized uniquely on the cell surface. In biochemical assays the time course of phosphate liberation by the suspension of glutaraldehyde fixed cells was linear up to 15 min incubation. The activity was proportional to the number of cells in the suspension, amounting of 0.019 units activity per 10(8) cells.", "contents": "5'-Nucleotidase of L 1210 cells. Cytochemical and kinetic studies. The activity of 5'-nucleotidase in L 1210 leukaemia cells fixed in situ by glutaraldehyde was established by electron microscopic cytochemistry and biochemical assays. The enzyme activity is localized uniquely on the cell surface. In biochemical assays the time course of phosphate liberation by the suspension of glutaraldehyde fixed cells was linear up to 15 min incubation. The activity was proportional to the number of cells in the suspension, amounting of 0.019 units activity per 10(8) cells.", "PMID": 437576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3564", "title": "Effect of starvation on the genetic activity of nucleus and nucleolar organizer.", "content": "The investigations of root meristems and hypocotyls of Lupinus albus L. starved, and then fed with 2% sucrose were carried out and several variations in nuclear and nucleolar dimensions, their ultrastructure, template activity of DNA, activities of RNA polymerases and transcriptional activity, were found. As a result of starvation, the surface area of nuclei and nucleoli decreases several times; after 24 hours, in the presence of sucrose, it grows again, but the control state is not achieved. Moreover, in a starved material the area of condensed chromatin in nucleus is increased by 1/3; after feeding, its partial recovery to the initial state is observed. The intensity of binding of 3H AMD in a fed material is increased by 1/3 as compared with the starved one. Transcriptional activity, estimated on the basis of 3H uridine incorporation is decreased in a starved material, especially in the meristematic tissue; feeding intensificates the transcriptional activity whereas the activity of endogenous RNA polymerase, investigated in hypocotyl, is drastically lowered in a starved material. Sucrose feeding does not restore the control state, though the per cent of nuclei and nucleoli revealing the activity of RNA polymerase is much higher in a fed material than in a starved one.", "contents": "Effect of starvation on the genetic activity of nucleus and nucleolar organizer. The investigations of root meristems and hypocotyls of Lupinus albus L. starved, and then fed with 2% sucrose were carried out and several variations in nuclear and nucleolar dimensions, their ultrastructure, template activity of DNA, activities of RNA polymerases and transcriptional activity, were found. As a result of starvation, the surface area of nuclei and nucleoli decreases several times; after 24 hours, in the presence of sucrose, it grows again, but the control state is not achieved. Moreover, in a starved material the area of condensed chromatin in nucleus is increased by 1/3; after feeding, its partial recovery to the initial state is observed. The intensity of binding of 3H AMD in a fed material is increased by 1/3 as compared with the starved one. Transcriptional activity, estimated on the basis of 3H uridine incorporation is decreased in a starved material, especially in the meristematic tissue; feeding intensificates the transcriptional activity whereas the activity of endogenous RNA polymerase, investigated in hypocotyl, is drastically lowered in a starved material. Sucrose feeding does not restore the control state, though the per cent of nuclei and nucleoli revealing the activity of RNA polymerase is much higher in a fed material than in a starved one.", "PMID": 437579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3565", "title": "Demonstration of dehydrogenase activities in paraffin sections.", "content": "The possibility of demonstrating the activity of respiratory enzymes in paraffin sections was studied. Unfixed pieces of nervous tissue were incubated at 4 degrees C, 20 degrees C, 37 degrees C and 56 degrees C for various periods ranging from 1 to 24 hours. After dehydration, the tissue pieces were mounted in paraffin. The paraffin sections obtained there of were then tested with respect to the range of penetration of the substrate into the incubated tissue samples (as judged from the resulting histoenzymic reaction), and for the distinctness with which the localization of the histochemic reaction could be assessed. From the results it may be concluded that it is possible, under well defined conditions, to demonstrate the activity of dehydrogenases in paraffin sections. The resulting morphological pictures permit a much better localization of the histoenzymic reaction products than those obtained from cryostat sections. Optimal results are obtained when tissue fragments, about 1 mm in diameter are incubated for 24 hours at 4 degrees C.", "contents": "Demonstration of dehydrogenase activities in paraffin sections. The possibility of demonstrating the activity of respiratory enzymes in paraffin sections was studied. Unfixed pieces of nervous tissue were incubated at 4 degrees C, 20 degrees C, 37 degrees C and 56 degrees C for various periods ranging from 1 to 24 hours. After dehydration, the tissue pieces were mounted in paraffin. The paraffin sections obtained there of were then tested with respect to the range of penetration of the substrate into the incubated tissue samples (as judged from the resulting histoenzymic reaction), and for the distinctness with which the localization of the histochemic reaction could be assessed. From the results it may be concluded that it is possible, under well defined conditions, to demonstrate the activity of dehydrogenases in paraffin sections. The resulting morphological pictures permit a much better localization of the histoenzymic reaction products than those obtained from cryostat sections. Optimal results are obtained when tissue fragments, about 1 mm in diameter are incubated for 24 hours at 4 degrees C.", "PMID": 437580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3566", "title": "Ultrastructural alterations in extrinsic eye muscles induced by vincristine.", "content": "A comparative morphological analysis of the effects of vincristine on particular types of muscle fibres of the eye and selected trunk muscles of the mouse was performed. Great resistance of the mouse organism to the action of sublethal doses of vincristine has been found. Degenerative changes of great intensity (atrophy of myofibrils, disturbances of the Z line) and the appearance of new changes, not mentioned hitherto among the vincristine myopathies (megamitochondria, intermembranous inclusions, glycogen in mitochondria and very large vacuoles) were observed in the trunk muscles of mice. The eye muscles are seem to be more resistant to the action of vincristine. The intensity of changes in the eye muscles was connected with the types of muscle fibres. Red fibres, rich in mitochondria, underwent relatively greatest changes, whereas the smallest changes were found in tonic fibres, poor in mitochondria and sarcotubular system, i.e. these structures from which spheromembranous bodies, most characteristic of the pathogenic effects of vincristine arise.", "contents": "Ultrastructural alterations in extrinsic eye muscles induced by vincristine. A comparative morphological analysis of the effects of vincristine on particular types of muscle fibres of the eye and selected trunk muscles of the mouse was performed. Great resistance of the mouse organism to the action of sublethal doses of vincristine has been found. Degenerative changes of great intensity (atrophy of myofibrils, disturbances of the Z line) and the appearance of new changes, not mentioned hitherto among the vincristine myopathies (megamitochondria, intermembranous inclusions, glycogen in mitochondria and very large vacuoles) were observed in the trunk muscles of mice. The eye muscles are seem to be more resistant to the action of vincristine. The intensity of changes in the eye muscles was connected with the types of muscle fibres. Red fibres, rich in mitochondria, underwent relatively greatest changes, whereas the smallest changes were found in tonic fibres, poor in mitochondria and sarcotubular system, i.e. these structures from which spheromembranous bodies, most characteristic of the pathogenic effects of vincristine arise.", "PMID": 437581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3567", "title": "[Decrease of ACh response in isolated duodenum from SART stressed (repeated cold stressed) mice (author's transl)].", "content": "ACh response in the isolated duodenum from SART stressed (repeated cold stressed) mice was remarkably decreased in comparison to normal mice 5 days after onset of loading SART stress, and maximal contraction in SART stress mice duodenum was about 37% of that in non-stressed mice. Pilocarpine and KCl responses were also considerably decreased, but BaCl2 response was much the same as in the controls. Thus, the contraction system of the muscle is apparently not damaged by SART stress. Though body weights decreased, the daily intake of food incressed in SART stressed mice. Length of small intestine from SART stressed mice was much the same as in controls, but wet weights of small intestines were larger than in controls. Autonomic agonists, antagonists, tranquilizers and other drugs were given intraperitoneally to mice once daily during SART stress, and the ACh responses in the isolated duodenum were investigated. Pretreatment with adrenergic and anticholinergic drugs inhibited the decrease of ACh response, but antiadrenergic and cholinergic drugs had no effects. Pretreatment with tranquilizers such as reserpine, chlorpromazine, carpipramine and imipramine inhibited the decrease of ACh response in the isolated duodenum, but diazepam, meprobamate and benadryl had no influence. Pretreatment of neurotropin, a neurosedative had good inhibitory effects. Our results suggest that SART stressed mice may be in a state of unbalance regarding sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, particularly with regard to abnormal tension in the parasympathetic nervous system, in part of duodenum. Pretreatment with most of the above drugs had no influence on loss of body weight in SART stressed mice while pretreatment with neurotropin inhibited body weight to a considerable extent.", "contents": "[Decrease of ACh response in isolated duodenum from SART stressed (repeated cold stressed) mice (author's transl)]. ACh response in the isolated duodenum from SART stressed (repeated cold stressed) mice was remarkably decreased in comparison to normal mice 5 days after onset of loading SART stress, and maximal contraction in SART stress mice duodenum was about 37% of that in non-stressed mice. Pilocarpine and KCl responses were also considerably decreased, but BaCl2 response was much the same as in the controls. Thus, the contraction system of the muscle is apparently not damaged by SART stress. Though body weights decreased, the daily intake of food incressed in SART stressed mice. Length of small intestine from SART stressed mice was much the same as in controls, but wet weights of small intestines were larger than in controls. Autonomic agonists, antagonists, tranquilizers and other drugs were given intraperitoneally to mice once daily during SART stress, and the ACh responses in the isolated duodenum were investigated. Pretreatment with adrenergic and anticholinergic drugs inhibited the decrease of ACh response, but antiadrenergic and cholinergic drugs had no effects. Pretreatment with tranquilizers such as reserpine, chlorpromazine, carpipramine and imipramine inhibited the decrease of ACh response in the isolated duodenum, but diazepam, meprobamate and benadryl had no influence. Pretreatment of neurotropin, a neurosedative had good inhibitory effects. Our results suggest that SART stressed mice may be in a state of unbalance regarding sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, particularly with regard to abnormal tension in the parasympathetic nervous system, in part of duodenum. Pretreatment with most of the above drugs had no influence on loss of body weight in SART stressed mice while pretreatment with neurotropin inhibited body weight to a considerable extent.", "PMID": 437583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3568", "title": "[The difference of drug sensitivity of tumor cells on N-ethyloxycarbonylaminomethyl-L-isoleucine (A-145 (author's transl)].", "content": "N-Ethyloxycarbonylaminomehyl-L-isoleucine (A-145), a novel antitumor amino acid derivative, is an anti-tumor agent effect in cases of Ehrlich ascites rather than against Sarcoma-180. The chemotherapeutic index of A-145 was 14.9 for Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and 4.2 for ascites Sarcoma-180. Experimental studies on ddy mice regarding the difference in susceptibility of these two tumor cell lines to A-145 gave the following results. In in vivo experiments, the uptake of 14C-A-145 by Ehrlich ascites carcinoma was greater than by Sarcoma-180, i. e. the uptake ratio of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma/Sarcoma-180 was 1.52 at 30 min and 2.7 at 24 hr after injection. In in vivo experiments, there was no remarkable difference between Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and Sarcoma 180 in the subcellular distribution of 14C-A-145, and the majority of the radioactivity taken up was distributed in nuclei and cytosol fractions. In in vitro experiments, the uptake of 14C-A-145 by both cell lines was found to be temperature sensitive, glucose dependent, and decreased on addition of KCN, 2, 4-dinitrophenol or iodoacetic acid. In in vitro experiments, competitive inhibition by L-isoleucine on 14C-A-145 uptake into tumor cells was observed in both cell lines, however, in vitro experiments, the inhibitory effect of A-145 on cell growth in cultured Sarcoma-180 was not reversed by L-isoleucine.", "contents": "[The difference of drug sensitivity of tumor cells on N-ethyloxycarbonylaminomethyl-L-isoleucine (A-145 (author's transl)]. N-Ethyloxycarbonylaminomehyl-L-isoleucine (A-145), a novel antitumor amino acid derivative, is an anti-tumor agent effect in cases of Ehrlich ascites rather than against Sarcoma-180. The chemotherapeutic index of A-145 was 14.9 for Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and 4.2 for ascites Sarcoma-180. Experimental studies on ddy mice regarding the difference in susceptibility of these two tumor cell lines to A-145 gave the following results. In in vivo experiments, the uptake of 14C-A-145 by Ehrlich ascites carcinoma was greater than by Sarcoma-180, i. e. the uptake ratio of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma/Sarcoma-180 was 1.52 at 30 min and 2.7 at 24 hr after injection. In in vivo experiments, there was no remarkable difference between Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and Sarcoma 180 in the subcellular distribution of 14C-A-145, and the majority of the radioactivity taken up was distributed in nuclei and cytosol fractions. In in vitro experiments, the uptake of 14C-A-145 by both cell lines was found to be temperature sensitive, glucose dependent, and decreased on addition of KCN, 2, 4-dinitrophenol or iodoacetic acid. In in vitro experiments, competitive inhibition by L-isoleucine on 14C-A-145 uptake into tumor cells was observed in both cell lines, however, in vitro experiments, the inhibitory effect of A-145 on cell growth in cultured Sarcoma-180 was not reversed by L-isoleucine.", "PMID": 437584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3569", "title": "[Effects of vitamin B complex in functional changes of the peripheral nerves of alloxan-induced diabetic rats (author's transl)].", "content": "Neurophysiological properties of the peripheral nerves of alloxan-induced diabetic rats and effects of vitamin B complex (V) were studied. Alloxan monohydrate was administered to Wistar (38 mg/kg, i.v.) and Sprague-Dawley (SD, 45 mg/kg, i.v.) rats. In Wistar diabetic rats (blood sugar level: more than 400 mg/dl for 6--8 weeks), nerve potentials with 2 peaks were recorded from the tibial and peroneal nerves. The late component had a higher threshold, longer time of recovery from excitation and slower conduction velocities. Large doses of V (B1: 100, B6: 100 and B12: 1 mg/kg, i.p.) administered daily until the experiment inhibited the appearance of the late component. In SD diabetic rats(the same blood sugar content for 6 approximately 8 months), the ventral root potentials had a longer duration, higher threshold and longer time of recovery from excitation. In V administered rats, particularly along with insulin, these changes were prevented. Most efferent fibers of non-treated rats had a refractory period of less than 3.0 msec. The number of fibers with this refractory period was greatly reduced in the diabetic rats. Although rats administered each component of V 100 and V 50 had efferent fibers with similar refractory periods to that of rats in A-S group, those administered V 100 had efferent fibers with significantly shorter refractory periods. Thus, efferent fibers seem to be more sensitive than the afferent ones at the early stages of the long term diabetic state and a large dose of V, particularly along with insulin, depressed these changes.", "contents": "[Effects of vitamin B complex in functional changes of the peripheral nerves of alloxan-induced diabetic rats (author's transl)]. Neurophysiological properties of the peripheral nerves of alloxan-induced diabetic rats and effects of vitamin B complex (V) were studied. Alloxan monohydrate was administered to Wistar (38 mg/kg, i.v.) and Sprague-Dawley (SD, 45 mg/kg, i.v.) rats. In Wistar diabetic rats (blood sugar level: more than 400 mg/dl for 6--8 weeks), nerve potentials with 2 peaks were recorded from the tibial and peroneal nerves. The late component had a higher threshold, longer time of recovery from excitation and slower conduction velocities. Large doses of V (B1: 100, B6: 100 and B12: 1 mg/kg, i.p.) administered daily until the experiment inhibited the appearance of the late component. In SD diabetic rats(the same blood sugar content for 6 approximately 8 months), the ventral root potentials had a longer duration, higher threshold and longer time of recovery from excitation. In V administered rats, particularly along with insulin, these changes were prevented. Most efferent fibers of non-treated rats had a refractory period of less than 3.0 msec. The number of fibers with this refractory period was greatly reduced in the diabetic rats. Although rats administered each component of V 100 and V 50 had efferent fibers with similar refractory periods to that of rats in A-S group, those administered V 100 had efferent fibers with significantly shorter refractory periods. Thus, efferent fibers seem to be more sensitive than the afferent ones at the early stages of the long term diabetic state and a large dose of V, particularly along with insulin, depressed these changes.", "PMID": 437585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3570", "title": "Clinical use of reverse isolation in a protected environment.", "content": "The therapeutic method of reverse isolation in patients using an aseptic environment in the Life Island or Laminar Air Flow Unit apparatus systems is described on the basis of data from the literature and the authors' experience. A historical summary of views on treatment in an aseptic environment is followed by a description of the method of work with the system of reverse isolation, including important technical, operational and other data. The main indications for treatment are given and the authors' experience with the reverse isolation of 36 patients suffering from blood diseases who were treated in this way over the past four years is evaluated. The experience gained confirms data from the literature that reverse isolation is unequivocally successful in reducing the number of infections in immunologically weakened persons. Other aspects have not yet been definitely assessed.", "contents": "Clinical use of reverse isolation in a protected environment. The therapeutic method of reverse isolation in patients using an aseptic environment in the Life Island or Laminar Air Flow Unit apparatus systems is described on the basis of data from the literature and the authors' experience. A historical summary of views on treatment in an aseptic environment is followed by a description of the method of work with the system of reverse isolation, including important technical, operational and other data. The main indications for treatment are given and the authors' experience with the reverse isolation of 36 patients suffering from blood diseases who were treated in this way over the past four years is evaluated. The experience gained confirms data from the literature that reverse isolation is unequivocally successful in reducing the number of infections in immunologically weakened persons. Other aspects have not yet been definitely assessed.", "PMID": 437588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3571", "title": "A suicide by ingestion of a mixture of copper, chromium and arsenic compounds.", "content": "A suicide resulting from the ingestion of copper, chromium and arsenic is reported. Death was delayed for 36 hours, during which time copper was rapidly eliminated from the body but chromium and arsenic remained in substantial quantities. The different metabolism of these elements is discussed and the tissue levels discovered are compared with the normal levels.", "contents": "A suicide by ingestion of a mixture of copper, chromium and arsenic compounds. A suicide resulting from the ingestion of copper, chromium and arsenic is reported. Death was delayed for 36 hours, during which time copper was rapidly eliminated from the body but chromium and arsenic remained in substantial quantities. The different metabolism of these elements is discussed and the tissue levels discovered are compared with the normal levels.", "PMID": 437619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3572", "title": "A chromatography system for drug identification.", "content": "A classification system is described for drugs using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry. The TLC classifications are based on division of the plate into zones relative to a set of mixed drug standards. The GLC classification is based on Kovats' retention indices. The procedure for classifying drugs is presented, together with a list of over 200 classified drugs.", "contents": "A chromatography system for drug identification. A classification system is described for drugs using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry. The TLC classifications are based on division of the plate into zones relative to a set of mixed drug standards. The GLC classification is based on Kovats' retention indices. The procedure for classifying drugs is presented, together with a list of over 200 classified drugs.", "PMID": 437620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3573", "title": "[Genetic amniocentesis in early pregnancy].", "content": "212 amniocentesis were performed at the Gynecological Clinic of the University Graz in cooperation with the Institute for Human Genetics of the same University from 1.7.1974 to 1.4.1978 for prenatal detection of genetic disorders or inherited disorders of metabolism. In 9 cases (4,2%) pathological results or special chromosomal aberrations were found. Five pregnancies (2,3%) had to be interrupted with prostaglandins. One case of Down-Syndrome ended by spontaneous abortion. Three women had a miscarriage following amniocentesis up to 6 weeks afterwards. In two cases (0,9%) a primary connection of puncture and loss of pregnancy could be documented. 4 cases (1,8%) suffered of amniotic fluid leakage after amniocentesis. Three patients delivered healthy term babies. This study demonstrates the high accuracy of the described diagnostic procedures.", "contents": "[Genetic amniocentesis in early pregnancy]. 212 amniocentesis were performed at the Gynecological Clinic of the University Graz in cooperation with the Institute for Human Genetics of the same University from 1.7.1974 to 1.4.1978 for prenatal detection of genetic disorders or inherited disorders of metabolism. In 9 cases (4,2%) pathological results or special chromosomal aberrations were found. Five pregnancies (2,3%) had to be interrupted with prostaglandins. One case of Down-Syndrome ended by spontaneous abortion. Three women had a miscarriage following amniocentesis up to 6 weeks afterwards. In two cases (0,9%) a primary connection of puncture and loss of pregnancy could be documented. 4 cases (1,8%) suffered of amniotic fluid leakage after amniocentesis. Three patients delivered healthy term babies. This study demonstrates the high accuracy of the described diagnostic procedures.", "PMID": 437628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3574", "title": "[Treatment of ulcerations and skin defects of various etiologies with synthetic skin grafts].", "content": "A special form of therapy of ulcerations with synthetic graft is presented, especially the indication and method of this therapy and the possibility of temporary grafting with this material after large excisions of skin tumors.", "contents": "[Treatment of ulcerations and skin defects of various etiologies with synthetic skin grafts]. A special form of therapy of ulcerations with synthetic graft is presented, especially the indication and method of this therapy and the possibility of temporary grafting with this material after large excisions of skin tumors.", "PMID": 437629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3575", "title": "[Multiple illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract. Part 2: So-called second diseases of the upper abdominal organs].", "content": "Today are multiple illnesses, pertaining the internal maladies (illnesses), almost a regularity. You differentiate between combination-illnesses, which represent primarily dependent illnesses and associated illnesses independent from each other. In the following summary illnesses are mentioned, which according to present information, appear more often together or cancel each other out. Of special interest are such procedures, by which a second disorder to the one existing can appear. The patient will experience a change in his illness. The appearance of a so called second sickness is especially to be observed in such organs as liver, gallbladder and pancreas. The study of multiple illnesses is more meaningfull, because statements for the basic research can be met and next to these more aetiologic or pathogenic associated questions lead to the next step, to the clinical symptoms which experience a change, and further to certain therapeutic considerations and consequences. Finally also the prognostic statements change.", "contents": "[Multiple illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract. Part 2: So-called second diseases of the upper abdominal organs]. Today are multiple illnesses, pertaining the internal maladies (illnesses), almost a regularity. You differentiate between combination-illnesses, which represent primarily dependent illnesses and associated illnesses independent from each other. In the following summary illnesses are mentioned, which according to present information, appear more often together or cancel each other out. Of special interest are such procedures, by which a second disorder to the one existing can appear. The patient will experience a change in his illness. The appearance of a so called second sickness is especially to be observed in such organs as liver, gallbladder and pancreas. The study of multiple illnesses is more meaningfull, because statements for the basic research can be met and next to these more aetiologic or pathogenic associated questions lead to the next step, to the clinical symptoms which experience a change, and further to certain therapeutic considerations and consequences. Finally also the prognostic statements change.", "PMID": 437631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3576", "title": "[The clinical significance of hormone receptors in the treatment of breast cancer].", "content": "The assay of steroid receptors in tumor tissue has been shown to be a useful tool to evaluate the response of disseminated breast cancer to endocrine therapy. Principle and problems of this assay are outlined. An objective response of estrogen-receptor positive tumors to endocrine treatment can be achieved in about 60%. The rate of remissions in the receptor-negative group is below 10%. Possible explanations for false-positive or false-negative receptor assays are discussed. Additionally some possibilities for increasing the accuracy of the method are detailed.", "contents": "[The clinical significance of hormone receptors in the treatment of breast cancer]. The assay of steroid receptors in tumor tissue has been shown to be a useful tool to evaluate the response of disseminated breast cancer to endocrine therapy. Principle and problems of this assay are outlined. An objective response of estrogen-receptor positive tumors to endocrine treatment can be achieved in about 60%. The rate of remissions in the receptor-negative group is below 10%. Possible explanations for false-positive or false-negative receptor assays are discussed. Additionally some possibilities for increasing the accuracy of the method are detailed.", "PMID": 437632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3577", "title": "[Early symptoms and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis].", "content": "Multiple Sclerosis is one of the most common neurological diseases in North and Central Europe and USA, the prevalence is 0,03-0,06%. The precise aetiological and pathological processes underlying the disease are still unknown. As there is as yet no laboratory test that is specific for Multiple Sclerosis, the diagnosis is still a clinical one. It depends on the history--a majority of patients has a history of remissions--and on the demonstration of objective signs of lesions in the white matter of the central nervous system. There can be found some early symptoms--such as optic neuritis--and some typical combinations of symptoms that make the diagnosis Multiple Sclerosis probable or clinically definit. Among the laboratory tests the investigation of cerebrospinal fluid is most important.", "contents": "[Early symptoms and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis]. Multiple Sclerosis is one of the most common neurological diseases in North and Central Europe and USA, the prevalence is 0,03-0,06%. The precise aetiological and pathological processes underlying the disease are still unknown. As there is as yet no laboratory test that is specific for Multiple Sclerosis, the diagnosis is still a clinical one. It depends on the history--a majority of patients has a history of remissions--and on the demonstration of objective signs of lesions in the white matter of the central nervous system. There can be found some early symptoms--such as optic neuritis--and some typical combinations of symptoms that make the diagnosis Multiple Sclerosis probable or clinically definit. Among the laboratory tests the investigation of cerebrospinal fluid is most important.", "PMID": 437633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3578", "title": "[The treatment of schizophrenic psychoses with hemodialysis].", "content": "A very controversial debate, concerning the treatment of schizophrenic psychoses by means of hemodialysis, started approximately in 1977, when American scientists reported outstanding successes with this method. Until now there is no clear evidence of the underlying principle of effectiveness of this method. According to present experiences there are three theories. Already in 1960 there were reports of successful application of hemodialysis in acute schizophrenic psychoses. The authors, among other things, assumed the filtration of a toxic blood substance to be the therapeutic principle. Later, however, changes in the blood circulation during dialysis, especially the improvement of cerebral perfusion, were seen as the real therapeutic factor. The recently reported findings of abnormal endorphin in the dialysate fluid of schizophrenics, brought back the theory of detoxification. At the same time there were claims by different authors, that the positive results were only due to a \"changed psychological situation\" of the treated patients. Which of these three theories is correct can not be decided yet. Whether blood purification methods have anything to offer for the treatment of some types of schizophrenic diseases requires further research.", "contents": "[The treatment of schizophrenic psychoses with hemodialysis]. A very controversial debate, concerning the treatment of schizophrenic psychoses by means of hemodialysis, started approximately in 1977, when American scientists reported outstanding successes with this method. Until now there is no clear evidence of the underlying principle of effectiveness of this method. According to present experiences there are three theories. Already in 1960 there were reports of successful application of hemodialysis in acute schizophrenic psychoses. The authors, among other things, assumed the filtration of a toxic blood substance to be the therapeutic principle. Later, however, changes in the blood circulation during dialysis, especially the improvement of cerebral perfusion, were seen as the real therapeutic factor. The recently reported findings of abnormal endorphin in the dialysate fluid of schizophrenics, brought back the theory of detoxification. At the same time there were claims by different authors, that the positive results were only due to a \"changed psychological situation\" of the treated patients. Which of these three theories is correct can not be decided yet. Whether blood purification methods have anything to offer for the treatment of some types of schizophrenic diseases requires further research.", "PMID": 437634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3579", "title": "[Echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular function in man].", "content": "Comparison of ultrasound and invasive measurements has shown that accuracy and reproducibility of echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular performance are suitable for clinical use. We determined the influence of changes in heart rate, afterload, inotropic state and diastolic cycle length after premature beats and in atrial fibrillation on various ejection phase indices of myocardial contractility in man. Mean and maximal velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (VCF mean' VCF max) showed a slight increase during rapid atrial pacing. In contrast fractional shortening (FS%) and delta-VCF were not influenced by acute changes in heart rate. During intravenous infusion with Dobutamine VCF max and delta-VCF proved to be particular sensitive indices of left ventricular function. After permature beats and in atrial fibrillation the results indicate a linear correlation between all indices of the ejection phase and diastolic cycle length.", "contents": "[Echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular function in man]. Comparison of ultrasound and invasive measurements has shown that accuracy and reproducibility of echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular performance are suitable for clinical use. We determined the influence of changes in heart rate, afterload, inotropic state and diastolic cycle length after premature beats and in atrial fibrillation on various ejection phase indices of myocardial contractility in man. Mean and maximal velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (VCF mean' VCF max) showed a slight increase during rapid atrial pacing. In contrast fractional shortening (FS%) and delta-VCF were not influenced by acute changes in heart rate. During intravenous infusion with Dobutamine VCF max and delta-VCF proved to be particular sensitive indices of left ventricular function. After permature beats and in atrial fibrillation the results indicate a linear correlation between all indices of the ejection phase and diastolic cycle length.", "PMID": 437636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3580", "title": "[Prevention and therapy of decubitus ulcer. Oxygen availability in the skin as a function of imposed skin pressure].", "content": "Pressure is of crucial importance in the formation of decubitus ulcers. In order to elucidate the effect of imposed skin pressure we measured with a new cutaneous oxygen sensor the skin oxygen tension under increasing pressure upon skin tissue on hard sites (bony prominences) and upon soft sites (muscle padded areas). On hard sites the skin oxygen tension fell rapidly under increasing pressure (y = 90.9--0.39 x/r = 0.98) from initially 86.4 +/- 10.6 to 20.2 +/- 12.1 mmHg under an imposing skin pressure of 175 g/cm2. On soft sites a pressure load of 175 g/cm2 decreased the skin oxygen tension only from 82.9 +/- 5.8 to 71.4 +/- 10.0 mmHg. Our results may explain why hard sites (bony prominences) are preferential areas in decubitus ulcer formation.", "contents": "[Prevention and therapy of decubitus ulcer. Oxygen availability in the skin as a function of imposed skin pressure]. Pressure is of crucial importance in the formation of decubitus ulcers. In order to elucidate the effect of imposed skin pressure we measured with a new cutaneous oxygen sensor the skin oxygen tension under increasing pressure upon skin tissue on hard sites (bony prominences) and upon soft sites (muscle padded areas). On hard sites the skin oxygen tension fell rapidly under increasing pressure (y = 90.9--0.39 x/r = 0.98) from initially 86.4 +/- 10.6 to 20.2 +/- 12.1 mmHg under an imposing skin pressure of 175 g/cm2. On soft sites a pressure load of 175 g/cm2 decreased the skin oxygen tension only from 82.9 +/- 5.8 to 71.4 +/- 10.0 mmHg. Our results may explain why hard sites (bony prominences) are preferential areas in decubitus ulcer formation.", "PMID": 437638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3581", "title": "[Tolerance of the polyvalent adsorbed influenza vaccine Alorbat].", "content": "A good local and systemic tolerance of the influenza virus vaccine Alorbat was observed after a single administration in 469 patients or after a second administration within 4--6 weeks in 132 patients. An improved manufacturing process led to a higher purity of the vaccine (less protein) and therefore to a diminuation of systemic reactions. In most cases, the local reactions observed cannot be attributed to a local irritation by the vaccine but rather to mechanical damage to the skin and subcutaneous tissue after injection with a jet injector. None of the side-effects necessitated medical treatment as the systemic reactions regressed within a few hours and the local reactions disappeared spontaneously within a few days.", "contents": "[Tolerance of the polyvalent adsorbed influenza vaccine Alorbat]. A good local and systemic tolerance of the influenza virus vaccine Alorbat was observed after a single administration in 469 patients or after a second administration within 4--6 weeks in 132 patients. An improved manufacturing process led to a higher purity of the vaccine (less protein) and therefore to a diminuation of systemic reactions. In most cases, the local reactions observed cannot be attributed to a local irritation by the vaccine but rather to mechanical damage to the skin and subcutaneous tissue after injection with a jet injector. None of the side-effects necessitated medical treatment as the systemic reactions regressed within a few hours and the local reactions disappeared spontaneously within a few days.", "PMID": 437640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3582", "title": "[Pathology of cardiac insufficiency].", "content": "Giving introductory examples of autopsied cases the variable spectrum of the different forms and temporary dynamics of cardiac insufficiency are discribed. In the following chapter the etiology is discussed from the point of view of general pathology. The pathogenesis of cardiac insufficiency is discussed by taking in consideration of the \"energy problem\". Disturbances of the supply, the production, the utilization and the transposition of energy, which are to be morphologically detectable with various methods looking upon different structures, lead at least to the insufficiency of the myocardial contraction.", "contents": "[Pathology of cardiac insufficiency]. Giving introductory examples of autopsied cases the variable spectrum of the different forms and temporary dynamics of cardiac insufficiency are discribed. In the following chapter the etiology is discussed from the point of view of general pathology. The pathogenesis of cardiac insufficiency is discussed by taking in consideration of the \"energy problem\". Disturbances of the supply, the production, the utilization and the transposition of energy, which are to be morphologically detectable with various methods looking upon different structures, lead at least to the insufficiency of the myocardial contraction.", "PMID": 437642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3583", "title": "[Tuberculosis in children and adolescents in Bavaria].", "content": "In 1977 in Bavaria, 7,659 cases (incidents) of tuberculosis were reported. 797 of these cases were children under 15 and 636 were youths between 15 and 20 years of age, that is 1,433 together. The first rise in cases takes place in the age bracket up to 5 years, the second, far greater, between 15 and 25. At the end of 1977 statistics showed the existence (prevalence) of 14,642 tuberculars. Of these, 1,128 were children under 15 and 858 youths between 15 and 20. Administrative districts with the most cases were Lower Bavaria (Niederbayern), Upper Palatinate (Oberpfalz), Upper Franconia (Oberfranken), and Middle Franconia (Mittelfranken). In local epidemics 190 youths and children became ill, infected in a dance hall, a discotheque, and a factory, as well as by a kindergarten teacher. Under these unfavorable circumstances a BCG vaccination is imperative. The Bavarian Home Ministry \"publicly recommends\" the BCG vaccination for infants as well as for all tuberculin negatives who live with people who have tuberculosis or who are otherwise endangered by tuberculosis, However, under the circumstances described, all children and young adults are still endangered by tuberculosis.", "contents": "[Tuberculosis in children and adolescents in Bavaria]. In 1977 in Bavaria, 7,659 cases (incidents) of tuberculosis were reported. 797 of these cases were children under 15 and 636 were youths between 15 and 20 years of age, that is 1,433 together. The first rise in cases takes place in the age bracket up to 5 years, the second, far greater, between 15 and 25. At the end of 1977 statistics showed the existence (prevalence) of 14,642 tuberculars. Of these, 1,128 were children under 15 and 858 youths between 15 and 20. Administrative districts with the most cases were Lower Bavaria (Niederbayern), Upper Palatinate (Oberpfalz), Upper Franconia (Oberfranken), and Middle Franconia (Mittelfranken). In local epidemics 190 youths and children became ill, infected in a dance hall, a discotheque, and a factory, as well as by a kindergarten teacher. Under these unfavorable circumstances a BCG vaccination is imperative. The Bavarian Home Ministry \"publicly recommends\" the BCG vaccination for infants as well as for all tuberculin negatives who live with people who have tuberculosis or who are otherwise endangered by tuberculosis, However, under the circumstances described, all children and young adults are still endangered by tuberculosis.", "PMID": 437644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3584", "title": "[Experiences with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in ambulatory urologic practice].", "content": "The author reports about the treatment of 393 bacterial urinary tract infections with TMP/SMZ. It is shown that the success of treatment significantly depends on the constitution of the efferent urinary passages (obstructive and non-obstructive alterations, unchanged urinary passages) and the kind of organisms but only insignificantly on the duration of treatment. The germinal spectrum and the number of resistant strains of the individual kinds of organisms correspond with the results of other investigators. TMP/SMZ is a very potent antibiotic drug against the most pathogenic urinary organisms at a low rate of side effects.", "contents": "[Experiences with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in ambulatory urologic practice]. The author reports about the treatment of 393 bacterial urinary tract infections with TMP/SMZ. It is shown that the success of treatment significantly depends on the constitution of the efferent urinary passages (obstructive and non-obstructive alterations, unchanged urinary passages) and the kind of organisms but only insignificantly on the duration of treatment. The germinal spectrum and the number of resistant strains of the individual kinds of organisms correspond with the results of other investigators. TMP/SMZ is a very potent antibiotic drug against the most pathogenic urinary organisms at a low rate of side effects.", "PMID": 437645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3585", "title": "[Amniotic fluid concentrations of thyroxine, reverse triiodothyronine and lecithins].", "content": "In the present study we tried to find out relationships between lung maturation-assessable by aid of lecithin concentrations in amniotic fluid-and fetal thyreoid gland function. In 256 pregnant women amniocentesis was done after 31/0 weeks of gestation, and concentrations of thyroxin, of reverse triiodothyronine and lecithins were measured. While thyroxin and lecithin concentrations proved not to be correlated, the rT3 and lecithin concentrations showed significant correlation (2 p less than 0.001). The curves measured were interpreted as signs of maturity of various organs (lung, thyreoid gland). We found out, that clinical value of measuring thyreoid gland hormones in relation to diagnosis of fetal maturation is of less importance.", "contents": "[Amniotic fluid concentrations of thyroxine, reverse triiodothyronine and lecithins]. In the present study we tried to find out relationships between lung maturation-assessable by aid of lecithin concentrations in amniotic fluid-and fetal thyreoid gland function. In 256 pregnant women amniocentesis was done after 31/0 weeks of gestation, and concentrations of thyroxin, of reverse triiodothyronine and lecithins were measured. While thyroxin and lecithin concentrations proved not to be correlated, the rT3 and lecithin concentrations showed significant correlation (2 p less than 0.001). The curves measured were interpreted as signs of maturity of various organs (lung, thyreoid gland). We found out, that clinical value of measuring thyreoid gland hormones in relation to diagnosis of fetal maturation is of less importance.", "PMID": 437647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3586", "title": "[Pentoxifylline medication within the scope of leg-ulcer therapy. Results of a field study using Trental 400].", "content": "513 patients with chronic ulcers of the leg were treated with Trental 400 orally in addition to local therapy. Regarding the reduction of the symptoms: ulcer extension, coldness of the leg, paraesthesia, resting pain and improvement of walking distance, 215 patients were classified as considerably improved, 195 distinctly improved, 53 slightly improved and 44 unchanged. Four cases worsened, two cases could not be classified. The possibility of combining oral therapy with local treatment and surgical measures (skin-flaps) is shown in three case reports. Gastro-intestinal tolerance of Trental 400 was good, interactions with concomitantly administered drugs were not reported.", "contents": "[Pentoxifylline medication within the scope of leg-ulcer therapy. Results of a field study using Trental 400]. 513 patients with chronic ulcers of the leg were treated with Trental 400 orally in addition to local therapy. Regarding the reduction of the symptoms: ulcer extension, coldness of the leg, paraesthesia, resting pain and improvement of walking distance, 215 patients were classified as considerably improved, 195 distinctly improved, 53 slightly improved and 44 unchanged. Four cases worsened, two cases could not be classified. The possibility of combining oral therapy with local treatment and surgical measures (skin-flaps) is shown in three case reports. Gastro-intestinal tolerance of Trental 400 was good, interactions with concomitantly administered drugs were not reported.", "PMID": 437649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3587", "title": "[Maturity determination of the newborn infant].", "content": "Uncertain dating of pregnancy and the relative independency of fetal maturation of time require judgement of the maturity state of every newborn infant for obvious practical reasons. Such scoring can be easily performed using external-superficial criteria with acceptable accuracy.", "contents": "[Maturity determination of the newborn infant]. Uncertain dating of pregnancy and the relative independency of fetal maturation of time require judgement of the maturity state of every newborn infant for obvious practical reasons. Such scoring can be easily performed using external-superficial criteria with acceptable accuracy.", "PMID": 437652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3588", "title": "[Methods for the early recognition of gestosis].", "content": "The frequency of the severe forms of gestosis (preeclampsia) may be reduced by early recognition of this disease. By predicting hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, maternal and infantile perinatal mortality rates are expected to be lowered. The supine pressor test (\"roll-over test\") is recommended as an appropriate and simple method for routine screening during primigravid pregnancy. This test is rarely false-negative (2--9%; Bonn 3%), but a high percentage of false-positive results has been found in patients studied in Bonn. The angiotensin sensitivity test shows less false-positive pressor responses, but it is not practical for routine use either as infusion test nor as bolus test. The rate of false-negative results is sufficiently low in both methods. The routine determination of uric acid concentration in serum seems to be of no great value for predicting pregnancy-induced hypertension, compared with the roll-over test or with the angiotensin sensitivity test; however, it gives an additional information (a) in pregnancy women with questionable gestosis, and (b) in the differential diagnosis of pregnancy-induced versus pre-existing essential hypertension.", "contents": "[Methods for the early recognition of gestosis]. The frequency of the severe forms of gestosis (preeclampsia) may be reduced by early recognition of this disease. By predicting hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, maternal and infantile perinatal mortality rates are expected to be lowered. The supine pressor test (\"roll-over test\") is recommended as an appropriate and simple method for routine screening during primigravid pregnancy. This test is rarely false-negative (2--9%; Bonn 3%), but a high percentage of false-positive results has been found in patients studied in Bonn. The angiotensin sensitivity test shows less false-positive pressor responses, but it is not practical for routine use either as infusion test nor as bolus test. The rate of false-negative results is sufficiently low in both methods. The routine determination of uric acid concentration in serum seems to be of no great value for predicting pregnancy-induced hypertension, compared with the roll-over test or with the angiotensin sensitivity test; however, it gives an additional information (a) in pregnancy women with questionable gestosis, and (b) in the differential diagnosis of pregnancy-induced versus pre-existing essential hypertension.", "PMID": 437653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3589", "title": "[Radiodiagnosis in pheochromocytoma].", "content": "The diagnosis \"pheochromocytoma\" is established by the evaluation of catecholamins and their metabolites in urine. Therapy consists in extirpation of the hormone producing tumor. Aim of he X-ray examination is the localization of the tumor before operation. 80% of the pheochromocytomata are located in the suprarenal glands. As there is the possibility of extraadrenal localization (20%) and of multicentric manifestation (11%) the X-ray examination must not be restricted to the suprarenal glands. More than 95% of all pheochromocytomata are well vascularized, therefore abdominal aortography is the best method to search for and localize these tumors. This invasive method necessitates close teamwork of the radiologist and a physician with great experience in this field. This is necessary for the preparation of the patient for aortography and also for the treatment of possible complications during aortography, which are specific for pheochromocytoma and which can be fatal.", "contents": "[Radiodiagnosis in pheochromocytoma]. The diagnosis \"pheochromocytoma\" is established by the evaluation of catecholamins and their metabolites in urine. Therapy consists in extirpation of the hormone producing tumor. Aim of he X-ray examination is the localization of the tumor before operation. 80% of the pheochromocytomata are located in the suprarenal glands. As there is the possibility of extraadrenal localization (20%) and of multicentric manifestation (11%) the X-ray examination must not be restricted to the suprarenal glands. More than 95% of all pheochromocytomata are well vascularized, therefore abdominal aortography is the best method to search for and localize these tumors. This invasive method necessitates close teamwork of the radiologist and a physician with great experience in this field. This is necessary for the preparation of the patient for aortography and also for the treatment of possible complications during aortography, which are specific for pheochromocytoma and which can be fatal.", "PMID": 437655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3590", "title": "[Development and current possibilities of cerebrospinal fluid diagnosis in the routine laboratory. 1. Cytological and microbiological studies and methods of chemical analysis].", "content": "Although there are many precisely working procedures for diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid, very often methods are used which do not fulfill conditions of adequate quality. The aim of this survey of several cytological and chemical methods, of their development during the past 80 years, of their advantages or disadvantages, and of the various difficulties is to contribute to a discussion on improvement of quality and on unification of laboratory methods regarding diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid. Several procedures to separate protein fractions or single proteins in cerebrospinal fluid will be discussed in the second part of this paper.", "contents": "[Development and current possibilities of cerebrospinal fluid diagnosis in the routine laboratory. 1. Cytological and microbiological studies and methods of chemical analysis]. Although there are many precisely working procedures for diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid, very often methods are used which do not fulfill conditions of adequate quality. The aim of this survey of several cytological and chemical methods, of their development during the past 80 years, of their advantages or disadvantages, and of the various difficulties is to contribute to a discussion on improvement of quality and on unification of laboratory methods regarding diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid. Several procedures to separate protein fractions or single proteins in cerebrospinal fluid will be discussed in the second part of this paper.", "PMID": 437656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3591", "title": "[Effects on platelet functions].", "content": "Platelet adhesiveness was measured in a total of 589 healthy volunteers and patients. Patients suffered from heart failure, diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction and deep vein thrombosis have a significant higher platelet adhesiveness as healthy volunteers. The effect of the socalled stressors on platelet adhesiveness was shown in vivo; the same values of platelet adhesiveness were seen as in patients. Therefore it can be concluded that stressors constitute a risk factor in patients with altered vessel walls.", "contents": "[Effects on platelet functions]. Platelet adhesiveness was measured in a total of 589 healthy volunteers and patients. Patients suffered from heart failure, diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction and deep vein thrombosis have a significant higher platelet adhesiveness as healthy volunteers. The effect of the socalled stressors on platelet adhesiveness was shown in vivo; the same values of platelet adhesiveness were seen as in patients. Therefore it can be concluded that stressors constitute a risk factor in patients with altered vessel walls.", "PMID": 437658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3592", "title": "[Gunshot wounds by military weapons].", "content": "The review is based on 34 recent publications. Bullet-wounds by military weapons either in drill or war are to be regarded as special kinds of wounds, needing profound knowledge of wound ballistic. However, the therapy of late developing complications may lead to problems.", "contents": "[Gunshot wounds by military weapons]. The review is based on 34 recent publications. Bullet-wounds by military weapons either in drill or war are to be regarded as special kinds of wounds, needing profound knowledge of wound ballistic. However, the therapy of late developing complications may lead to problems.", "PMID": 437659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3593", "title": "[The etiology of necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn].", "content": "Apparently there are different causes for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in the newborn infant. Besides it may be that NEC only is caused by the interaction of several factors such as perinatal complications, medical measures, an aggressive oral alimentation and an adverse colonization of the bowel and that a critical degree of stress is required to initiate enterocolitis. This assumption would help to explain, why one newborn infant can stand an episode of perinatal stress without falling ill, while the other develops the disease a short time later. Probably NEC starts with an intestinal mucosa damage caused by ischemia or local noxae, and only subsequent invasion by the bowel flora into the damaged tissue and gas formation within the bowel wall lead to the picture of necrotizing inflammation and pneumatosis intestinalis.", "contents": "[The etiology of necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn]. Apparently there are different causes for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in the newborn infant. Besides it may be that NEC only is caused by the interaction of several factors such as perinatal complications, medical measures, an aggressive oral alimentation and an adverse colonization of the bowel and that a critical degree of stress is required to initiate enterocolitis. This assumption would help to explain, why one newborn infant can stand an episode of perinatal stress without falling ill, while the other develops the disease a short time later. Probably NEC starts with an intestinal mucosa damage caused by ischemia or local noxae, and only subsequent invasion by the bowel flora into the damaged tissue and gas formation within the bowel wall lead to the picture of necrotizing inflammation and pneumatosis intestinalis.", "PMID": 437660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3594", "title": "[Danger to the child and family from civilization and prosperity].", "content": "The advances of civilization are more and more endangering the development of the child. The most important problems are traffic accidents, the decay of the family, the falling birth-rate and the increasing abuse of drugs and alcohol as well as suicide in early years of life. The family and the child must be respected in the future to improve the situation. Adults have to accept the age specific problems of the child.", "contents": "[Danger to the child and family from civilization and prosperity]. The advances of civilization are more and more endangering the development of the child. The most important problems are traffic accidents, the decay of the family, the falling birth-rate and the increasing abuse of drugs and alcohol as well as suicide in early years of life. The family and the child must be respected in the future to improve the situation. Adults have to accept the age specific problems of the child.", "PMID": 437661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3595", "title": "[Complications and psychosomatic problems after tubal sterilization].", "content": "From 1969 to 1974, 2080 patients were sterilized, 1702 by the pelviscopic method (electrocoagulation), 375 by laparotomy, and 3 vaginally. About two thirds of the sterilisations by laparotomy were carried out after delivery or during other surgical procedures. 15% of all women were sterilized for medical reasons; the other cases had to be 35 years of age or at least 30 if they had more than 3 children. The overall complication rate was 5% with both methods. Complications during pelviscopy included hemorrhage, bowel injury and burns. Postoperative complications after laparotomy were hemorrhage, thrombosis and wound dehiscence. Only half of the patients could be followed up; there were 4 pregnancies among 1308 women. In more than 50% the sexual relations had improved, in only 3% they had worsened. About 97% of the pelviscopically sterilized patients were satisfied with surgical method chosen and with their present status. It is recommended to allow sufficient time to think the decision over prior to the operation.", "contents": "[Complications and psychosomatic problems after tubal sterilization]. From 1969 to 1974, 2080 patients were sterilized, 1702 by the pelviscopic method (electrocoagulation), 375 by laparotomy, and 3 vaginally. About two thirds of the sterilisations by laparotomy were carried out after delivery or during other surgical procedures. 15% of all women were sterilized for medical reasons; the other cases had to be 35 years of age or at least 30 if they had more than 3 children. The overall complication rate was 5% with both methods. Complications during pelviscopy included hemorrhage, bowel injury and burns. Postoperative complications after laparotomy were hemorrhage, thrombosis and wound dehiscence. Only half of the patients could be followed up; there were 4 pregnancies among 1308 women. In more than 50% the sexual relations had improved, in only 3% they had worsened. About 97% of the pelviscopically sterilized patients were satisfied with surgical method chosen and with their present status. It is recommended to allow sufficient time to think the decision over prior to the operation.", "PMID": 437664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3596", "title": "[Oral actovegin therapy in cerebrovascular insufficiency. Studies on the therapeutic value of actovegin forte dragees in elderly patients with advanced cerebrovascular insufficiency].", "content": "The therapeutic effect of Actovegin forte drag. was investigated in a combined uncontrolled-controlled study on a total of 70 senile patients with mainly considerably advanced cerebral sclerosis (32 patients post-apoplexy) and concomitant diseases (46 patients with heart diseases, 41 patients with hypertonia, 28 patients with diabetes mellitus and others). Evaluation was made according to specific criteria. During six weeks of treatment with Actovegin a statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement of the intellectual faculties, the general condition and the complaints characterized by symptoms of deficiency of memory, exhaustiveness, disorder of sleep and weakness was noted. Even higher doses of the preparation were tolerated well. The effect of Actovegin forte drag. was dose-dependent--the best results were obtained with two drag\u00e9es three times daily--and was clearly delimited from the effect of a parallel cardiac or circulatory therapy or of any other basic therapy. These results reveal that the therapy with orally administered Actovegin appears to be an appropriate supplement to the parenteral therapy with Actovegin which has so far only been possible. It is particularly suitable for ambulatory and prolonged treatment of senile patients with cerebrovascular insufficiency.", "contents": "[Oral actovegin therapy in cerebrovascular insufficiency. Studies on the therapeutic value of actovegin forte dragees in elderly patients with advanced cerebrovascular insufficiency]. The therapeutic effect of Actovegin forte drag. was investigated in a combined uncontrolled-controlled study on a total of 70 senile patients with mainly considerably advanced cerebral sclerosis (32 patients post-apoplexy) and concomitant diseases (46 patients with heart diseases, 41 patients with hypertonia, 28 patients with diabetes mellitus and others). Evaluation was made according to specific criteria. During six weeks of treatment with Actovegin a statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement of the intellectual faculties, the general condition and the complaints characterized by symptoms of deficiency of memory, exhaustiveness, disorder of sleep and weakness was noted. Even higher doses of the preparation were tolerated well. The effect of Actovegin forte drag. was dose-dependent--the best results were obtained with two drag\u00e9es three times daily--and was clearly delimited from the effect of a parallel cardiac or circulatory therapy or of any other basic therapy. These results reveal that the therapy with orally administered Actovegin appears to be an appropriate supplement to the parenteral therapy with Actovegin which has so far only been possible. It is particularly suitable for ambulatory and prolonged treatment of senile patients with cerebrovascular insufficiency.", "PMID": 437665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3597", "title": "Sinus node disease.", "content": "Sinus node dysfunction may be clinically asymptomatic or may lead to serious arrhythmias and sudden death. Symptomatology relates to the resulting brady- or tachyarrhythmias. Clinical and electrocardiographic assessements fail to identify the cause in many patients. Ambulatory electrocardiography establishes the diagnosis in a greater percentage of patients and permits the direct correlation of symptoms with rhythm disturbances. Functional electrophysiologic testing which examines the sinus node response to constant atrial pacing and premature atrial stimulation may be performed for further evaluation of these patients. Sensitivity and specificity of sinus node recovery times (SNRT) and sino- atrial conduction time (SACT) derived by functional testing vary markedly in different reports. This variation may relate to differences in patient population, limitations of testing procedures, and the uncertainties as to the normal limits of SNRT and SACT. As a result, the full value of these tests in diagnosis and in furthering our understanding of sinus node disease remains to be established. At present, permanent pacing remains the definitive treatment in symptomatic patients.", "contents": "Sinus node disease. Sinus node dysfunction may be clinically asymptomatic or may lead to serious arrhythmias and sudden death. Symptomatology relates to the resulting brady- or tachyarrhythmias. Clinical and electrocardiographic assessements fail to identify the cause in many patients. Ambulatory electrocardiography establishes the diagnosis in a greater percentage of patients and permits the direct correlation of symptoms with rhythm disturbances. Functional electrophysiologic testing which examines the sinus node response to constant atrial pacing and premature atrial stimulation may be performed for further evaluation of these patients. Sensitivity and specificity of sinus node recovery times (SNRT) and sino- atrial conduction time (SACT) derived by functional testing vary markedly in different reports. This variation may relate to differences in patient population, limitations of testing procedures, and the uncertainties as to the normal limits of SNRT and SACT. As a result, the full value of these tests in diagnosis and in furthering our understanding of sinus node disease remains to be established. At present, permanent pacing remains the definitive treatment in symptomatic patients.", "PMID": 437667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3598", "title": "Electrophysiological studies in patients with the Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome.", "content": "Electrophysiologic studies in patients with the Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome are performed for diagnostic and therapeutic reasons. Surface electrocardiographic leads plus intracardiac electrograms from different locations are stimultaneously recorded. Programmed electrical stimulation of the heart permits confirmation of pre-excitation in questionable cases and assessment of the mechanism of the arrhythmias which these patients develop as well as their therapeutic approach. The most frequent form of paroxysmal regular tachycardia observed in WPW is based on an AV-junctional re-entry mechanism utilizing the accessory pathway in the retrograde direction. The second clinically relevant arrhythmia encountered in these patients is atrial fibrillation with very rapid ventricular rates due to almost exclusive A-V conduction by way of the accessory pathway. Ventricular fibrillation may occasionally ensue as a result of these fast ventricular rates during atrial fibrillation. Determination of the antegrade effective refractory period of the accessory pathway may identify the group of patients prone to the development of this complication. The intravenous injection of Ajmaline can by a non-invasive aid in the selection of patients for further electrophysiological evaluation when this drug fails to induce complete antegrade block over the accessory pathway during sinus rhythm. Patients with tachyarrhythmias which are difficult to control with conventional drug therapy should undergo an electrophysiological investigation to select either more effective antiarrhythmic treatment or, in medically refractory patients, appropriate pacing or surgical techniques.", "contents": "Electrophysiological studies in patients with the Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome. Electrophysiologic studies in patients with the Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome are performed for diagnostic and therapeutic reasons. Surface electrocardiographic leads plus intracardiac electrograms from different locations are stimultaneously recorded. Programmed electrical stimulation of the heart permits confirmation of pre-excitation in questionable cases and assessment of the mechanism of the arrhythmias which these patients develop as well as their therapeutic approach. The most frequent form of paroxysmal regular tachycardia observed in WPW is based on an AV-junctional re-entry mechanism utilizing the accessory pathway in the retrograde direction. The second clinically relevant arrhythmia encountered in these patients is atrial fibrillation with very rapid ventricular rates due to almost exclusive A-V conduction by way of the accessory pathway. Ventricular fibrillation may occasionally ensue as a result of these fast ventricular rates during atrial fibrillation. Determination of the antegrade effective refractory period of the accessory pathway may identify the group of patients prone to the development of this complication. The intravenous injection of Ajmaline can by a non-invasive aid in the selection of patients for further electrophysiological evaluation when this drug fails to induce complete antegrade block over the accessory pathway during sinus rhythm. Patients with tachyarrhythmias which are difficult to control with conventional drug therapy should undergo an electrophysiological investigation to select either more effective antiarrhythmic treatment or, in medically refractory patients, appropriate pacing or surgical techniques.", "PMID": 437670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3599", "title": "[Hemodynamic studies during temporary, unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery (author's transl)].", "content": "During pre-operative evaluation of 35 patients prior to pulmonary resection, pressure measurements in the right heart and pulmonary circulation were performed. In addition to pressure values, pulmonary ventilation and partial pressures of the blood gases were assessed before and during unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery at rest and during exercise. Statistically significant increased values from regression analysis were obtained for mean pulmonary artery pressure, right ventricular end-diastolic pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricular work. The results show that plethysmorgraphic and ergometric studies as well as their combination with blood gas analysis, are not indicative of changes in right ventricular or pulmonary arterial hemodynamics. Prior to pulmonary resection, catheterization should be performed at rest and during exercise to assess these variables.", "contents": "[Hemodynamic studies during temporary, unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery (author's transl)]. During pre-operative evaluation of 35 patients prior to pulmonary resection, pressure measurements in the right heart and pulmonary circulation were performed. In addition to pressure values, pulmonary ventilation and partial pressures of the blood gases were assessed before and during unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery at rest and during exercise. Statistically significant increased values from regression analysis were obtained for mean pulmonary artery pressure, right ventricular end-diastolic pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricular work. The results show that plethysmorgraphic and ergometric studies as well as their combination with blood gas analysis, are not indicative of changes in right ventricular or pulmonary arterial hemodynamics. Prior to pulmonary resection, catheterization should be performed at rest and during exercise to assess these variables.", "PMID": 437671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3600", "title": "Effects of possible beta-cell membrane label, metahexamide-isothiocyanate, on insulin release.", "content": "To synthetize a specifically and covalently reacting label for the sulfonylurea receptor site, the sulfonylurea metahexmide was converted to its isothiocyano-derivative (MITC), and the effects of MITC on insulin release from the perfused rat pancreas were studied. MITC (2 micrometer) stimulated a large insulin release that persisted after the end of the MITC-infusion. At a higher concentration (50 micrometer) MITC produced only a short lasting stimulation, and thereafter inhibited either the sulfonylurea or the glucose-induced insulin release. It is suggested that the irreversible stimulation of insulin release by MITC reflects the convalent linkage of the label to the sulfonylurea receptor site, while excess isothiocyanate inhibited insulin release by reacting on less specific binding sites involved in the secretion process.", "contents": "Effects of possible beta-cell membrane label, metahexamide-isothiocyanate, on insulin release. To synthetize a specifically and covalently reacting label for the sulfonylurea receptor site, the sulfonylurea metahexmide was converted to its isothiocyano-derivative (MITC), and the effects of MITC on insulin release from the perfused rat pancreas were studied. MITC (2 micrometer) stimulated a large insulin release that persisted after the end of the MITC-infusion. At a higher concentration (50 micrometer) MITC produced only a short lasting stimulation, and thereafter inhibited either the sulfonylurea or the glucose-induced insulin release. It is suggested that the irreversible stimulation of insulin release by MITC reflects the convalent linkage of the label to the sulfonylurea receptor site, while excess isothiocyanate inhibited insulin release by reacting on less specific binding sites involved in the secretion process.", "PMID": 437672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3601", "title": "Th activities of perfused livers of control and streptozotocin diabetic rats in the synthesis of some plasma proteins and peptides.", "content": "By measuring the incorporation of 14C-DL-leucine a decreased capacity of isolated perfused steptozotocin diabetic rat liver to synthetize plasma total proteins, albumin and the seromucoid fraction was found as compared with a control. The relative rate of synthesis of the seromucoid proteins calculated as proportional to the rate of synthesis of albumin or the total plasma proteins was approximately twice as great as in control liver. 14C-DL-leucine was also incorporated in perfused liver into the nonprotein but non-dialysable sugar-peptide fraction but the synthesis of the glycopeptide components of this fraction was markedly reduced in diabetic rat liver.", "contents": "Th activities of perfused livers of control and streptozotocin diabetic rats in the synthesis of some plasma proteins and peptides. By measuring the incorporation of 14C-DL-leucine a decreased capacity of isolated perfused steptozotocin diabetic rat liver to synthetize plasma total proteins, albumin and the seromucoid fraction was found as compared with a control. The relative rate of synthesis of the seromucoid proteins calculated as proportional to the rate of synthesis of albumin or the total plasma proteins was approximately twice as great as in control liver. 14C-DL-leucine was also incorporated in perfused liver into the nonprotein but non-dialysable sugar-peptide fraction but the synthesis of the glycopeptide components of this fraction was markedly reduced in diabetic rat liver.", "PMID": 437673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3602", "title": "The determinants of insulin extraction in the isolated perfused rat liver.", "content": "The effect of hepatic blood flow and portal insulin concentration on insulin extraction during one passage through the isolated perfused rat liver was studied. The percentage of insulin extracted was constant over the physiological range of blood flows (4 to 28 ml/min). The total amount of insulin extracted increased as the input concentration was raised from 48 to 4860 microU/ml with the highest level of extraction being approximately 700 microU of insulin per gram of liver per minute. When square wave input pulses of 243 to 4860 microU/ml were presented, about 5% of this insulin was retained and then released by the liver for periods up to 15 minutes after the cessation of the input. The possible roles of glucose and glucagon as regulators of insulin extraction were studied. Glucose (300 mg/dl), as compared with no glucose, led to a significant reduction of insulin extraction (22% vs. 38%, p less than 0.001). Glucagon had no effect on insulin extraction in the presence of constant levels of glucose. It is concluded, therefore, that glucose may increase circulating insulin levels not only by its well known stimulation of insulin secretion by the pancreas, but also by inhibiting insulin extraction by the liver.", "contents": "The determinants of insulin extraction in the isolated perfused rat liver. The effect of hepatic blood flow and portal insulin concentration on insulin extraction during one passage through the isolated perfused rat liver was studied. The percentage of insulin extracted was constant over the physiological range of blood flows (4 to 28 ml/min). The total amount of insulin extracted increased as the input concentration was raised from 48 to 4860 microU/ml with the highest level of extraction being approximately 700 microU of insulin per gram of liver per minute. When square wave input pulses of 243 to 4860 microU/ml were presented, about 5% of this insulin was retained and then released by the liver for periods up to 15 minutes after the cessation of the input. The possible roles of glucose and glucagon as regulators of insulin extraction were studied. Glucose (300 mg/dl), as compared with no glucose, led to a significant reduction of insulin extraction (22% vs. 38%, p less than 0.001). Glucagon had no effect on insulin extraction in the presence of constant levels of glucose. It is concluded, therefore, that glucose may increase circulating insulin levels not only by its well known stimulation of insulin secretion by the pancreas, but also by inhibiting insulin extraction by the liver.", "PMID": 437674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3603", "title": "Comparison of several insulin-like effects of growth hormone.", "content": "Three different insulin-like effects of growth hormone were studied in segments of adipose tissue obtained from hypophysectomized rats. The onset of each response was preceded by a characteristic lag period: antilipolysis was seen only after a 10--15 minute exposure to growth hormone; stimulation of glucose oxidation was significant 20 minutes after exposure to growth hormone and increased leucine oxidation was seen only after 30 minutes. Each of the responses was measurable without a detectable delay when the tissues were exposed to hormone during a prior incubation period. Accelerated leucine oxidation was detected when 0.01 microgram/ml growth hormone was present in the incubation medium; the other responses required a minimum of 0.1 microgram/ml. Inhibitors of protein synthesis of concentrations which decreased the incorporation of 14C leucine into protein by 99% had no effect on either the antilipolytic action of growth hormone or the stimulatory action on glucose oxidation, but abolished the acceleration of leucine oxidation. In contrast to findings in diaphragm muscle, theophylline was without effect on any of the insulin-like actions of growth hormone in adipose tissue, even though it decreased the basal rate of glucose and leucine oxidation.", "contents": "Comparison of several insulin-like effects of growth hormone. Three different insulin-like effects of growth hormone were studied in segments of adipose tissue obtained from hypophysectomized rats. The onset of each response was preceded by a characteristic lag period: antilipolysis was seen only after a 10--15 minute exposure to growth hormone; stimulation of glucose oxidation was significant 20 minutes after exposure to growth hormone and increased leucine oxidation was seen only after 30 minutes. Each of the responses was measurable without a detectable delay when the tissues were exposed to hormone during a prior incubation period. Accelerated leucine oxidation was detected when 0.01 microgram/ml growth hormone was present in the incubation medium; the other responses required a minimum of 0.1 microgram/ml. Inhibitors of protein synthesis of concentrations which decreased the incorporation of 14C leucine into protein by 99% had no effect on either the antilipolytic action of growth hormone or the stimulatory action on glucose oxidation, but abolished the acceleration of leucine oxidation. In contrast to findings in diaphragm muscle, theophylline was without effect on any of the insulin-like actions of growth hormone in adipose tissue, even though it decreased the basal rate of glucose and leucine oxidation.", "PMID": 437676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3604", "title": "The influence of maternal somatostatin administration on fetal brain cell proliferation and its relationship to serum gorwth hormone and brain trophin activity.", "content": "The effect of maternal somatostatin administration from days 14 to 20 of gestation was examined. Fetal body growth was unchanged but brain cell DNA synthesis per gram of tissue decreased. Maternal serum levels of growth hormone and brain trophin were elevated following treatment conclusion. It was suggested that this was a rebound phenomenon and that short term blockade of pituitary growth hormone release during somatostatin treatment had impaired fetal brain cell DNA synthesis.", "contents": "The influence of maternal somatostatin administration on fetal brain cell proliferation and its relationship to serum gorwth hormone and brain trophin activity. The effect of maternal somatostatin administration from days 14 to 20 of gestation was examined. Fetal body growth was unchanged but brain cell DNA synthesis per gram of tissue decreased. Maternal serum levels of growth hormone and brain trophin were elevated following treatment conclusion. It was suggested that this was a rebound phenomenon and that short term blockade of pituitary growth hormone release during somatostatin treatment had impaired fetal brain cell DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 437677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3605", "title": "Effect of acute hypoxia on blood TSH levels.", "content": "The effect of simulated altitude produced by decompression chambers upon the thyroid function was studied in female rats. A significant decrease in blood TSH levels was found when the rats were maintained during 24 hours at a pressure of 0.4 atmosphere, but not at a pressure of 0.7 atmosphere.", "contents": "Effect of acute hypoxia on blood TSH levels. The effect of simulated altitude produced by decompression chambers upon the thyroid function was studied in female rats. A significant decrease in blood TSH levels was found when the rats were maintained during 24 hours at a pressure of 0.4 atmosphere, but not at a pressure of 0.7 atmosphere.", "PMID": 437679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3606", "title": "Absorption of protamine-insulin in diabetic patients. I. Preparation and characterization of protamine-125I-insulin.", "content": "Protamine-125I-insulin with low specific radioactivity was prepared using 125, 127I-insulin, 0.2 I/mole. The preparations were characterized by disc electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing and analytical gel chromatography in order to evaluate the suitability of 125I-insulin as marker for insulin in protamine-insulin. The stability of the preparations was followed up to 90 days at 4 degrees C. The biological and immunological activity was determined in mice, isolated rat fat cells and by radioimmunoassay. It was concluded that both from a chemical and a biological point of view, the protamine-125I-insulin is a satisfactory preparation that might be used in absorption studies.", "contents": "Absorption of protamine-insulin in diabetic patients. I. Preparation and characterization of protamine-125I-insulin. Protamine-125I-insulin with low specific radioactivity was prepared using 125, 127I-insulin, 0.2 I/mole. The preparations were characterized by disc electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing and analytical gel chromatography in order to evaluate the suitability of 125I-insulin as marker for insulin in protamine-insulin. The stability of the preparations was followed up to 90 days at 4 degrees C. The biological and immunological activity was determined in mice, isolated rat fat cells and by radioimmunoassay. It was concluded that both from a chemical and a biological point of view, the protamine-125I-insulin is a satisfactory preparation that might be used in absorption studies.", "PMID": 437686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3607", "title": "Is lactate involved in phenformin-induced insulin secretion?", "content": "Phenformin at high doses (10 mg/l, 50 mg/l, and 100 mg/l) increased the insulin and lactate output rates by the isolated perfused rat pancreas. Glucagon secretion was not modified. There was a statistically significant correlation between the increase in insulin and lactate output rates induced by phenformin. Intra-pancreatic L (+) lactate concentrations induced by phenformin were in the range of sodium L (+) lactate concentrations which experimentally stimulated insulin secretion by the same preparation. Thiamin pyrophosphate and sodium dichloroacetate, which promote the aerobic metabolism of pyruvate, opposed the phenoformin induced increase in lactate output by the isolated perfused rat pancreas and provoked as well a decrease in insulin release. These results suggest that the increase in insulin secretion following the administration of phenformin at high concentrations can be explained, to a large extent, by the increase in the production of lactate ions.", "contents": "Is lactate involved in phenformin-induced insulin secretion? Phenformin at high doses (10 mg/l, 50 mg/l, and 100 mg/l) increased the insulin and lactate output rates by the isolated perfused rat pancreas. Glucagon secretion was not modified. There was a statistically significant correlation between the increase in insulin and lactate output rates induced by phenformin. Intra-pancreatic L (+) lactate concentrations induced by phenformin were in the range of sodium L (+) lactate concentrations which experimentally stimulated insulin secretion by the same preparation. Thiamin pyrophosphate and sodium dichloroacetate, which promote the aerobic metabolism of pyruvate, opposed the phenoformin induced increase in lactate output by the isolated perfused rat pancreas and provoked as well a decrease in insulin release. These results suggest that the increase in insulin secretion following the administration of phenformin at high concentrations can be explained, to a large extent, by the increase in the production of lactate ions.", "PMID": 437687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3608", "title": "Use of electrophoresis and gel filtration to characterize human pituitary somatotropin preparations after storage.", "content": "Fresh and stored preparations of human pituitary somatotropin examined by different polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis techniques and by gel exclusion chromatography (Ultrogel) clearly demonstrated that the hormone undergoes a structural alteration during storage for 3 years. The formed aggregates were readily quantitated from the gel filtration profile and from polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS-PAGE). According to gel filtration the amount of aggregates in fresh and stored hormone was determined to be 2 and 10%, respectively, while SDS-PAGE indicated 6 and 14%.", "contents": "Use of electrophoresis and gel filtration to characterize human pituitary somatotropin preparations after storage. Fresh and stored preparations of human pituitary somatotropin examined by different polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis techniques and by gel exclusion chromatography (Ultrogel) clearly demonstrated that the hormone undergoes a structural alteration during storage for 3 years. The formed aggregates were readily quantitated from the gel filtration profile and from polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS-PAGE). According to gel filtration the amount of aggregates in fresh and stored hormone was determined to be 2 and 10%, respectively, while SDS-PAGE indicated 6 and 14%.", "PMID": 437688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3609", "title": "Role of ovarian secretion in the development of dysfunction in the regulation of luteinizing hormone secretion in female rats exposed to constant illumination.", "content": "Female rats in constant illumination (LL) fail to show the facilitation of LH release following steroid administration that is characteristic of animals in normal lighting. To determine whether this effect is mediated through changes in ovarian function, rats were spayed either at the time of placement into different lighting schedules (LL or a 14:10 light-dark (LD) schedule) or 10 weeks later, and their plasma LH responses to steroids were compared after an additional 3-week exposure to the experimental lighting conditions. To test the LH response, estradiol benzoate (EB) was injected at 12.00 h and followed 72 h later by injection of progesterone (P) or a second injection of EB. Neither steroid regime revealed differences in LH release between animals ovariectomized at the time of placement into LL and those spayed 10 weeks later. The duration of castration in animals in LD affected the LH response to a priming dose of EB, but not to a second dose of EB or to P. It is concluded that altered ovarian activity is not the factor which mediates the loss of a facilitatory response of LH release following administration of gonadal steroids to rats under constant illumination.", "contents": "Role of ovarian secretion in the development of dysfunction in the regulation of luteinizing hormone secretion in female rats exposed to constant illumination. Female rats in constant illumination (LL) fail to show the facilitation of LH release following steroid administration that is characteristic of animals in normal lighting. To determine whether this effect is mediated through changes in ovarian function, rats were spayed either at the time of placement into different lighting schedules (LL or a 14:10 light-dark (LD) schedule) or 10 weeks later, and their plasma LH responses to steroids were compared after an additional 3-week exposure to the experimental lighting conditions. To test the LH response, estradiol benzoate (EB) was injected at 12.00 h and followed 72 h later by injection of progesterone (P) or a second injection of EB. Neither steroid regime revealed differences in LH release between animals ovariectomized at the time of placement into LL and those spayed 10 weeks later. The duration of castration in animals in LD affected the LH response to a priming dose of EB, but not to a second dose of EB or to P. It is concluded that altered ovarian activity is not the factor which mediates the loss of a facilitatory response of LH release following administration of gonadal steroids to rats under constant illumination.", "PMID": 437689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3610", "title": "Effect of thiourea on intracranial bone tumour formation in AkR mice.", "content": "The effect of administration of thiourea (5 g/kg in diet) alone or simultaneously with thyroxine (1 mg/l in drinking water) on the frequency of hyperplastic benign osteoma of the skull was studied in AkR mice. Animals treated with both thiourea and thyroxine were in hyperthyroidism: the thyroxine dose received was higher that that required to prevent thiourea-induced thyroid gland hypertrophy. A significant increase of the intracranial bone tumour (IBT) frequency was observed both in mice treated with thiourea alone and those which received thiourea and thyroxine simultaneously. Increase of IBT frequency was not due to the antithyroid effect of thiourea but seems due to a direct toxic action of thiourea on the pituitary.", "contents": "Effect of thiourea on intracranial bone tumour formation in AkR mice. The effect of administration of thiourea (5 g/kg in diet) alone or simultaneously with thyroxine (1 mg/l in drinking water) on the frequency of hyperplastic benign osteoma of the skull was studied in AkR mice. Animals treated with both thiourea and thyroxine were in hyperthyroidism: the thyroxine dose received was higher that that required to prevent thiourea-induced thyroid gland hypertrophy. A significant increase of the intracranial bone tumour (IBT) frequency was observed both in mice treated with thiourea alone and those which received thiourea and thyroxine simultaneously. Increase of IBT frequency was not due to the antithyroid effect of thiourea but seems due to a direct toxic action of thiourea on the pituitary.", "PMID": 437690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3611", "title": "Failure to demonstrate antigonadotrophic activities of arginine vasotocin in the mouse.", "content": "Arginine vasotocin (AVT) has previously been proposed to be a pineal hormone which reduces reproductive competency in mammals. The effects of AVT on the growth of immature reproductive organs of the mouse have been studied using blind study techniques. Evidence is presented which fails to support the proposed role of AVT as a mammalian antigonadotrophin.", "contents": "Failure to demonstrate antigonadotrophic activities of arginine vasotocin in the mouse. Arginine vasotocin (AVT) has previously been proposed to be a pineal hormone which reduces reproductive competency in mammals. The effects of AVT on the growth of immature reproductive organs of the mouse have been studied using blind study techniques. Evidence is presented which fails to support the proposed role of AVT as a mammalian antigonadotrophin.", "PMID": 437691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3612", "title": "Binding of d-tubocurarine by gangliosides.", "content": "The binding of d-tubocurarine by ganglioside mixtures from chicken and bovine brain as well as by the single gangliosides GGtet1-NeuAc, GGtet2aNeuAc and GGtet3aNeuAc was demonstrated by means of equilibrium gel filtration. The sialyl-oligosaccharide derivatives of GGtet1NeuAc and GGtet2aNeuAc, however, did not bind any d-tubocurarine. A lack of binding was also found for the gangliotetraosyl-ceramide GgOse4Cer, free NeuAc, mucin and sphingomyelin. Under saturation conditions, GGtet1NeuAc bound 0.58, GGtet2aNeuAc 0.92 and GGtet3a-NeuAc 1.23 mol d-tubocurarine per mol ganglioside. Half-maximal binding was achieved between 1 and 1.5 x 10(-5)M d-tubocurarine. Ca2 was found to inhibit the binding of d-tubocurarine to gangliosides (50% at 4 x 10(-4)M Ca2). Mg2 was about 4 times less effective. Acetylcholine caused a 40% inhibition at 4 x 10(-3)M, whereas K and Na had only slight effects even at 5 x 10(-2)M.", "contents": "Binding of d-tubocurarine by gangliosides. The binding of d-tubocurarine by ganglioside mixtures from chicken and bovine brain as well as by the single gangliosides GGtet1-NeuAc, GGtet2aNeuAc and GGtet3aNeuAc was demonstrated by means of equilibrium gel filtration. The sialyl-oligosaccharide derivatives of GGtet1NeuAc and GGtet2aNeuAc, however, did not bind any d-tubocurarine. A lack of binding was also found for the gangliotetraosyl-ceramide GgOse4Cer, free NeuAc, mucin and sphingomyelin. Under saturation conditions, GGtet1NeuAc bound 0.58, GGtet2aNeuAc 0.92 and GGtet3a-NeuAc 1.23 mol d-tubocurarine per mol ganglioside. Half-maximal binding was achieved between 1 and 1.5 x 10(-5)M d-tubocurarine. Ca2 was found to inhibit the binding of d-tubocurarine to gangliosides (50% at 4 x 10(-4)M Ca2). Mg2 was about 4 times less effective. Acetylcholine caused a 40% inhibition at 4 x 10(-3)M, whereas K and Na had only slight effects even at 5 x 10(-2)M.", "PMID": 437692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3613", "title": "Changes in the concentrations of branched chain amino acids in the blood in response to alterations in the composition of a hypocaloric diet.", "content": "This report describes an investigation of the effect of an alteration in the amount of protein, carbohydrate and fat in hypocaloric diets on the concentration ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in the morning fasting blood in healthy men: in some cases the effect of a higher caloric diet was also analysed. During the nutrition periods, each over 10 days, the concentrations of branched chain amino acids and alanine, blood levels of insulin, glucose and free fatty acids and the nitrogen balance were estimated daily. With hypocaloric diets, as well as with hypercaloric diets, supplementation of food protein from 0.6 or 0.8 up to 2.0 g protein per kg body weight (isocalorically) induced a rise of the molar ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in blood from 0.98 to 1.25 (4600 kJ/d) or 1.06 to 1.45 (14600 kJ/d) respectively. A correlation of molar ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in the blood and the nitrogen balance could not be established. However, it is suggested that ratios above a limiting value exclude the possibility of a distinct negative nitrogen balance during 7 or 10 days of observation.", "contents": "Changes in the concentrations of branched chain amino acids in the blood in response to alterations in the composition of a hypocaloric diet. This report describes an investigation of the effect of an alteration in the amount of protein, carbohydrate and fat in hypocaloric diets on the concentration ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in the morning fasting blood in healthy men: in some cases the effect of a higher caloric diet was also analysed. During the nutrition periods, each over 10 days, the concentrations of branched chain amino acids and alanine, blood levels of insulin, glucose and free fatty acids and the nitrogen balance were estimated daily. With hypocaloric diets, as well as with hypercaloric diets, supplementation of food protein from 0.6 or 0.8 up to 2.0 g protein per kg body weight (isocalorically) induced a rise of the molar ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in blood from 0.98 to 1.25 (4600 kJ/d) or 1.06 to 1.45 (14600 kJ/d) respectively. A correlation of molar ratios of valine/(isoleucine + leucine) in the blood and the nitrogen balance could not be established. However, it is suggested that ratios above a limiting value exclude the possibility of a distinct negative nitrogen balance during 7 or 10 days of observation.", "PMID": 437693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3614", "title": "Synthesis of giant HnRNA in the epidermal cells of Calliphora and the role of the ring gland.", "content": "The appearance of giant HnRNA in the epidermal cells of Calliphora in the transition period from larva to pupa is ecdysone-dependent. In this specific stage of development, the initial increase of this RNA species occurs shortly after the appearance of a small peak of ecdysone. Another main peak of the hormone is a prerequisite for pupation. The removal of the ring gland, the source of ecdysone, prior to the appearance of the second peak of the hormone, was found to have no pronounced effect on HnRNA synthesis for at least 48 h after the operation. It is concluded that the larval pupal differentiation is a two-step process. Initially a gen activation occurs dependent on a low ecdysone titer. This is followed by a second final step of pupal cuticle synthesis and pupation, dependent on the presence of a high concentration of the hormone.", "contents": "Synthesis of giant HnRNA in the epidermal cells of Calliphora and the role of the ring gland. The appearance of giant HnRNA in the epidermal cells of Calliphora in the transition period from larva to pupa is ecdysone-dependent. In this specific stage of development, the initial increase of this RNA species occurs shortly after the appearance of a small peak of ecdysone. Another main peak of the hormone is a prerequisite for pupation. The removal of the ring gland, the source of ecdysone, prior to the appearance of the second peak of the hormone, was found to have no pronounced effect on HnRNA synthesis for at least 48 h after the operation. It is concluded that the larval pupal differentiation is a two-step process. Initially a gen activation occurs dependent on a low ecdysone titer. This is followed by a second final step of pupal cuticle synthesis and pupation, dependent on the presence of a high concentration of the hormone.", "PMID": 437694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3615", "title": "Receptor binding studies on A1-(2-nitro-4-trimethylammoniophenyl)insulin.", "content": "The results are presented from receptor binding studies and isolated fat cell assays on A1-(2-nitro-4-trimethylammoniophenyl)insulin. In the former tests, the derivative is shown to have properties similar to native insulin and the fat cell assays afford a value of 76 +/- 4%. The importance of a charged, hydrophilic moiety attached at A1-glycine is discussed in the light of the above findings.", "contents": "Receptor binding studies on A1-(2-nitro-4-trimethylammoniophenyl)insulin. The results are presented from receptor binding studies and isolated fat cell assays on A1-(2-nitro-4-trimethylammoniophenyl)insulin. In the former tests, the derivative is shown to have properties similar to native insulin and the fat cell assays afford a value of 76 +/- 4%. The importance of a charged, hydrophilic moiety attached at A1-glycine is discussed in the light of the above findings.", "PMID": 437696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3616", "title": "Malignancy-associated DNA-binding protein C3DP from human serum. Further characterization and purification of C3DP retaining its DNA-binding affinity.", "content": "C3DP, a malignancy-associated DNA-binding protein from human serum[1], was purified to homogeneity without loss of its DNA-binding affinity. For this purpose normal human serum was submitted to affinity chromatography on Con A-Sepharose and DNA-cellulose and to preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The purified C3DP was identified by immunodiffusion and sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and it was shown to bind to DNA by DNA-cellulose chromatography. The isoelectric point of C3DP was determined to 4.9 by isoelectric focusing.", "contents": "Malignancy-associated DNA-binding protein C3DP from human serum. Further characterization and purification of C3DP retaining its DNA-binding affinity. C3DP, a malignancy-associated DNA-binding protein from human serum[1], was purified to homogeneity without loss of its DNA-binding affinity. For this purpose normal human serum was submitted to affinity chromatography on Con A-Sepharose and DNA-cellulose and to preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The purified C3DP was identified by immunodiffusion and sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and it was shown to bind to DNA by DNA-cellulose chromatography. The isoelectric point of C3DP was determined to 4.9 by isoelectric focusing.", "PMID": 437697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3617", "title": "The synthesis of a new phospholipid from the koilin glandular layer of chicken gizzard.", "content": "In a previous publication, a new phospholipid was isolated from the keratinoidal layer of chicken gizzard, and on the basis of chemical, spectrometric (IR, NMR, UV) tests and mass analysis, the probable structure of the isolated phospholipid was proposed as 1,2-O-docosylidene-sn-glycero-3-phospho(1'-ribosyl)-ethanolamine (IX). In this paper, on the basis of probable structure, a new phospholipid was synthetized.", "contents": "The synthesis of a new phospholipid from the koilin glandular layer of chicken gizzard. In a previous publication, a new phospholipid was isolated from the keratinoidal layer of chicken gizzard, and on the basis of chemical, spectrometric (IR, NMR, UV) tests and mass analysis, the probable structure of the isolated phospholipid was proposed as 1,2-O-docosylidene-sn-glycero-3-phospho(1'-ribosyl)-ethanolamine (IX). In this paper, on the basis of probable structure, a new phospholipid was synthetized.", "PMID": 437698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3618", "title": "Carbohydrate content of human erythrocyte membrane. Variations with ABO-blood group.", "content": "The study of the carbohydrates of human erythrocyte membranes has been mainly focused on their glycopeptidic and glycolipidic complexes. Modifications of these carbohydrates have been described in subjects with various pathological states. In order to characterize possible changes of the glycopeptides, or glycolipids obtained from erythrocyte membrane in various pathological situations, the determination of the carbohydrate content of the whole membrane appeared a necessary preliminary. This study concerns the determination of the normal values of the main carbohydrates of whole human erythrocyte membranes, with respect to their blood group. Erythrocyte membranes were prepared from donors of the four ABO blood groups. After acidic hydrolysis, the contents of fucose, mannose, galactose, glucose, glucosamine, galactosamine and N-acetylneuraminic acid in each blood group were determined and compared with one another. The galactosamine content of A, B and AB erythrocyte membranes is significantly higher than that of the O-erythrocyte. For galactose, the differences are significant for the following pairs: A/O; B/O; AB/O; A/B; A/AB. Significant differences in the mannose contents of O-erythrocytes and A, B and AB erythrocytes have also been found. This result suggests that a basic difference, in the core of the oligosaccharide chains, may exist between O and A, B, AB erythrocyte membranes.", "contents": "Carbohydrate content of human erythrocyte membrane. Variations with ABO-blood group. The study of the carbohydrates of human erythrocyte membranes has been mainly focused on their glycopeptidic and glycolipidic complexes. Modifications of these carbohydrates have been described in subjects with various pathological states. In order to characterize possible changes of the glycopeptides, or glycolipids obtained from erythrocyte membrane in various pathological situations, the determination of the carbohydrate content of the whole membrane appeared a necessary preliminary. This study concerns the determination of the normal values of the main carbohydrates of whole human erythrocyte membranes, with respect to their blood group. Erythrocyte membranes were prepared from donors of the four ABO blood groups. After acidic hydrolysis, the contents of fucose, mannose, galactose, glucose, glucosamine, galactosamine and N-acetylneuraminic acid in each blood group were determined and compared with one another. The galactosamine content of A, B and AB erythrocyte membranes is significantly higher than that of the O-erythrocyte. For galactose, the differences are significant for the following pairs: A/O; B/O; AB/O; A/B; A/AB. Significant differences in the mannose contents of O-erythrocytes and A, B and AB erythrocytes have also been found. This result suggests that a basic difference, in the core of the oligosaccharide chains, may exist between O and A, B, AB erythrocyte membranes.", "PMID": 437699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3619", "title": "myo-Inositol oxygenase from rat kidneys. I: Purification by affinity chromatography; physical and catalytic properties.", "content": "Using the technique of affinity chromatography on a myo-inositol-substituted Sepharose, the myo-inositol oxygenase from rat kidneys was purified to homogeneity. The active enzyme contains iron, most probably in its divalent form. Electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecylsulphate causes the cleavage of the enzyme protein into apparently identical subunits with a molecular weight of approximately 17,000. The smallest active unit consists of 4 subunits, and is in a pH-dependent equilibium with species consisting of 8, 12, and 16 subunits, respectively, which all show the same specific enzyme activity. In the presence of oxygen the enzyme is highly unstable; at the early stages of inactivation it can be reactivated by reducing agents like NaBH4. Under anaerobic conditions or under the influence of Fe2-chelating agents, the enzyme is also inactivated; this inactivation is caused by the loss of iron and concomitant cleavage into the subunits. It can be reversed by incubation with FeSO4 in the presence of air. If myo-inositol and FeSO4 are present, the reactivation involves an oligomerization to the species with 16 subunits with the uptake of 8 gram-atoms of iron per mole of this species. The enzyme reaction follows Michaelis-Menten kinetics; the Michaelis constants are 4.5 x 10(-2)M for myo-inositol and 9.5 x 10(-6)M for oxygen.", "contents": "myo-Inositol oxygenase from rat kidneys. I: Purification by affinity chromatography; physical and catalytic properties. Using the technique of affinity chromatography on a myo-inositol-substituted Sepharose, the myo-inositol oxygenase from rat kidneys was purified to homogeneity. The active enzyme contains iron, most probably in its divalent form. Electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecylsulphate causes the cleavage of the enzyme protein into apparently identical subunits with a molecular weight of approximately 17,000. The smallest active unit consists of 4 subunits, and is in a pH-dependent equilibium with species consisting of 8, 12, and 16 subunits, respectively, which all show the same specific enzyme activity. In the presence of oxygen the enzyme is highly unstable; at the early stages of inactivation it can be reactivated by reducing agents like NaBH4. Under anaerobic conditions or under the influence of Fe2-chelating agents, the enzyme is also inactivated; this inactivation is caused by the loss of iron and concomitant cleavage into the subunits. It can be reversed by incubation with FeSO4 in the presence of air. If myo-inositol and FeSO4 are present, the reactivation involves an oligomerization to the species with 16 subunits with the uptake of 8 gram-atoms of iron per mole of this species. The enzyme reaction follows Michaelis-Menten kinetics; the Michaelis constants are 4.5 x 10(-2)M for myo-inositol and 9.5 x 10(-6)M for oxygen.", "PMID": 437700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3620", "title": "[Studies on the kinetics of the RNA metabolism in the prostate of normal and castrated rats (author's transl)].", "content": "In the prostate of adult Wistar rats the RNA/DNA quotient of the whole organ as well as the amount of RNA and DNA in the nucleus was measured at different times after castration. Furthermore the half-life time for the turnover of the RNA in the nucleus and the cytoplasm was determined for normal and castrated rats with the aid of pulse labelling using [5(-3)H]uridine. A mathematical model was developed to analyze the experimental results. This model enabled us to make differentiated statements on the heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hmRNA) and the remaining RNA in the nucleus. The evaluation of the experimental values gave the following results: 1. By deprivation of androgens the uptake of [3H]uridine into the prostate is lowered. 2. The amount of DNA in the morphologically intact nucleus remains constant at least up to the 12th day after castration. 3. 6 days after castration the amount of hmRNA decreases to 1/10 and that of cytoplasmic RNA to 1/4. 4. The half-life time for the decrease of the whole nuclear RNA is 3.7 d and that of the cytoplasmic RNA 1.7 d. 5. The half-life time for the turnover of hmRNA is 16 min and that of cytoplasmic RNA about 2 days. 6 days after castration the half-life times are unchanged. The experimental results suggest that the observed decrease of nuclear RNA following castration can mainly be attributed to a reduced synthesis of hnRNA, while the decrease of cytoplasmic RNA is first of all caused by an increase in RNA degradation.", "contents": "[Studies on the kinetics of the RNA metabolism in the prostate of normal and castrated rats (author's transl)]. In the prostate of adult Wistar rats the RNA/DNA quotient of the whole organ as well as the amount of RNA and DNA in the nucleus was measured at different times after castration. Furthermore the half-life time for the turnover of the RNA in the nucleus and the cytoplasm was determined for normal and castrated rats with the aid of pulse labelling using [5(-3)H]uridine. A mathematical model was developed to analyze the experimental results. This model enabled us to make differentiated statements on the heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hmRNA) and the remaining RNA in the nucleus. The evaluation of the experimental values gave the following results: 1. By deprivation of androgens the uptake of [3H]uridine into the prostate is lowered. 2. The amount of DNA in the morphologically intact nucleus remains constant at least up to the 12th day after castration. 3. 6 days after castration the amount of hmRNA decreases to 1/10 and that of cytoplasmic RNA to 1/4. 4. The half-life time for the decrease of the whole nuclear RNA is 3.7 d and that of the cytoplasmic RNA 1.7 d. 5. The half-life time for the turnover of hmRNA is 16 min and that of cytoplasmic RNA about 2 days. 6 days after castration the half-life times are unchanged. The experimental results suggest that the observed decrease of nuclear RNA following castration can mainly be attributed to a reduced synthesis of hnRNA, while the decrease of cytoplasmic RNA is first of all caused by an increase in RNA degradation.", "PMID": 437702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3621", "title": "Snake venoms. The amino-acid sequence of protein S2C4 from Dendroaspis jamesoni kaimosae (Jameson's mamba) venom.", "content": "A major component (S2C4) was purified from Jameson's mamba by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50 and ion-exchange chromatography on CM-cellulose. Protein S2C4 comprises 62 amino acid residues including 8 half-cystine residues. The complete amino acid sequence of the protein has been established. The sequence and the invariant amino acid residues of protein S2C4 resemble a short neurotoxin, a long neurotoxin, a cytotoxin and an angusticeps type protein. However, the position of its four disulphide bridges differs from those encountered in a short neurotoxin or a cytotoxin. Mixtures of protein S2C4 and angusticeps type proteins revealed a marked synergistic effect, in that their toxicity in combination was greater than the sum of their individual toxicities.", "contents": "Snake venoms. The amino-acid sequence of protein S2C4 from Dendroaspis jamesoni kaimosae (Jameson's mamba) venom. A major component (S2C4) was purified from Jameson's mamba by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50 and ion-exchange chromatography on CM-cellulose. Protein S2C4 comprises 62 amino acid residues including 8 half-cystine residues. The complete amino acid sequence of the protein has been established. The sequence and the invariant amino acid residues of protein S2C4 resemble a short neurotoxin, a long neurotoxin, a cytotoxin and an angusticeps type protein. However, the position of its four disulphide bridges differs from those encountered in a short neurotoxin or a cytotoxin. Mixtures of protein S2C4 and angusticeps type proteins revealed a marked synergistic effect, in that their toxicity in combination was greater than the sum of their individual toxicities.", "PMID": 437703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3622", "title": "Fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin), VI. Influence of heparin and hyaluronic acid on the binding of native collagen.", "content": "Fibronectin of human plasma associated readily with denatured collagen but gave only a weak reaction with the native protein. In the presence of heparin, however, solutions of native collagen type III, and fibronectin produced precipitates at an ionic strength of 0.2. In the presence of fibronectin and optimal additions of heparin, up to 60% of soluble native 125I-collagen type III, but only about 10% of native 125I-collagen type I, were insolubilized. Heparin also enhanced the formation of insoluble complexes from fibronectin and denatured collagen type I and type III. In the absence of collagen 125I-fibronectin was partially precipitated by heparin. Electron micrographs showed filamentous structures. Collagen did not increase the amount of 125I-fibronectin precipitated by heparin unless a critical collagen concentration was exceeded. It is suggested that heparin induced the transition of fibronectin from a globular to an elongated form, capable of forming filamentous precipitates which adsorb native collagen. Hyaluronic acid and putrescine prevented the insolubilization of native collagen type III, by fibronectin and heparin.", "contents": "Fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin), VI. Influence of heparin and hyaluronic acid on the binding of native collagen. Fibronectin of human plasma associated readily with denatured collagen but gave only a weak reaction with the native protein. In the presence of heparin, however, solutions of native collagen type III, and fibronectin produced precipitates at an ionic strength of 0.2. In the presence of fibronectin and optimal additions of heparin, up to 60% of soluble native 125I-collagen type III, but only about 10% of native 125I-collagen type I, were insolubilized. Heparin also enhanced the formation of insoluble complexes from fibronectin and denatured collagen type I and type III. In the absence of collagen 125I-fibronectin was partially precipitated by heparin. Electron micrographs showed filamentous structures. Collagen did not increase the amount of 125I-fibronectin precipitated by heparin unless a critical collagen concentration was exceeded. It is suggested that heparin induced the transition of fibronectin from a globular to an elongated form, capable of forming filamentous precipitates which adsorb native collagen. Hyaluronic acid and putrescine prevented the insolubilization of native collagen type III, by fibronectin and heparin.", "PMID": 437704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3623", "title": "[The sequence of beta A - and beta B-chains from carp hemoglobins (Cyprinus carpio L.)].", "content": "The primary structures of the beta A - and beta B-chains from the both main components of carp hemoglobins is given. The sequence was established by splitting with known methods and sequencing the products using the hydrophilic and hydrophobic programmes in the sequenator. The carp beta-chains differ from human beta-chains in the exchange of 66 and 67 amino acid residues, respectively; the beta A - beta B-chains differ by 4 amino acids (pos. no. 13, 41, 122 and 143). Both chains have one insertion in the position 121 or 122. The results are discussed.", "contents": "[The sequence of beta A - and beta B-chains from carp hemoglobins (Cyprinus carpio L.)]. The primary structures of the beta A - and beta B-chains from the both main components of carp hemoglobins is given. The sequence was established by splitting with known methods and sequencing the products using the hydrophilic and hydrophobic programmes in the sequenator. The carp beta-chains differ from human beta-chains in the exchange of 66 and 67 amino acid residues, respectively; the beta A - beta B-chains differ by 4 amino acids (pos. no. 13, 41, 122 and 143). Both chains have one insertion in the position 121 or 122. The results are discussed.", "PMID": 437706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3624", "title": "Planning mental health services for chronic patients.", "content": "At the present time, deinstitutionalized services for the chronically mentally ill are less than satisfactory. If planning for the future is to reverse the trend of incomplete service delivery for this population, it must start with the recognition and application of certain fundamental concepts. Effective planning requires idealism, vision, and a sense of reality. Six separate but interrelated dimensions of reality must be taken into account: the need for mental hospital; the importance of precise planning goals; the unique service needs of the chronically mentally ill; the need for interagency planning; the importance of a functioning and sensitive patient tracking system; and appreciation of the attitudinal structure within which services are delivered. Wherever the chronically mentally ill live, whether in the hospital or in the community, their requirements must be made the primary focus in mental health planning.", "contents": "Planning mental health services for chronic patients. At the present time, deinstitutionalized services for the chronically mentally ill are less than satisfactory. If planning for the future is to reverse the trend of incomplete service delivery for this population, it must start with the recognition and application of certain fundamental concepts. Effective planning requires idealism, vision, and a sense of reality. Six separate but interrelated dimensions of reality must be taken into account: the need for mental hospital; the importance of precise planning goals; the unique service needs of the chronically mentally ill; the need for interagency planning; the importance of a functioning and sensitive patient tracking system; and appreciation of the attitudinal structure within which services are delivered. Wherever the chronically mentally ill live, whether in the hospital or in the community, their requirements must be made the primary focus in mental health planning.", "PMID": 437711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3625", "title": "An assessment of a continuing care program.", "content": "In mid-1977 the Kern County (Calif.) Department of Mental Health Services undertook a survey of residents and operators of group and family care homes in the county to obtain their views on how services in the homes might be improved and to assess the level of skills of the patients placed there. A total of 139 former patients and 26 operators agreed to be interviewed. The results showed that few of the patients had overt behavioral problems and most were capable of self-care. For the most part the patients were satisfied with the homes, although problems related to finances and lack of outside activities were cited by both patients and operators. The authors emphasize the importance of including such assessment of consumer satisfaction in planning mental health services.", "contents": "An assessment of a continuing care program. In mid-1977 the Kern County (Calif.) Department of Mental Health Services undertook a survey of residents and operators of group and family care homes in the county to obtain their views on how services in the homes might be improved and to assess the level of skills of the patients placed there. A total of 139 former patients and 26 operators agreed to be interviewed. The results showed that few of the patients had overt behavioral problems and most were capable of self-care. For the most part the patients were satisfied with the homes, although problems related to finances and lack of outside activities were cited by both patients and operators. The authors emphasize the importance of including such assessment of consumer satisfaction in planning mental health services.", "PMID": 437712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3626", "title": "Extended hospital care as treatment of choice.", "content": "A review of the histories of six patients who failed to adapt to community living after hospital discharge identified six factors that are predictive of serious maladjustment in the community. The are the absence of a family or soical network, repeated threats of violent behavior, previous hospitalization, poor previous functioning, inability to take responsibility for medical and mental health treatment, and suffering. Patients identified by two or more factors are likely to be unable to cope with life outside the hospital. The authors question whether attempting to maintain such patients in the community is desirable in terms of economic cost and patient suffering.", "contents": "Extended hospital care as treatment of choice. A review of the histories of six patients who failed to adapt to community living after hospital discharge identified six factors that are predictive of serious maladjustment in the community. The are the absence of a family or soical network, repeated threats of violent behavior, previous hospitalization, poor previous functioning, inability to take responsibility for medical and mental health treatment, and suffering. Patients identified by two or more factors are likely to be unable to cope with life outside the hospital. The authors question whether attempting to maintain such patients in the community is desirable in terms of economic cost and patient suffering.", "PMID": 437713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3627", "title": "Locating drug addicts who have dropped out of treatment.", "content": "Staff at a VA-sponsored drug treatment center followed up dropouts one year after they left the program; they were able to locate 80 per cent of those clients. The staff found several contacts useful in locating the difficult-to-find population, including the addicts' mothers, other drug programs, prisons, and the department of motor vehicles. To make it easier for researchers to tract down dropouts, the author suggests that when patients enter a program they should be required to give names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least two friends or relatives who would know where they were. Staff should emphasize to patients that the information is for research purposes and that confidentiality will be preserved.", "contents": "Locating drug addicts who have dropped out of treatment. Staff at a VA-sponsored drug treatment center followed up dropouts one year after they left the program; they were able to locate 80 per cent of those clients. The staff found several contacts useful in locating the difficult-to-find population, including the addicts' mothers, other drug programs, prisons, and the department of motor vehicles. To make it easier for researchers to tract down dropouts, the author suggests that when patients enter a program they should be required to give names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least two friends or relatives who would know where they were. Staff should emphasize to patients that the information is for research purposes and that confidentiality will be preserved.", "PMID": 437714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3628", "title": "Patient as volunteer: an assault on chronicity.", "content": "By integrating selected former patients into its regular volunteer program, a South Australian state hospital reduced the hospital stays and the readmissions of a large number of the participants who had previously been seen as failures of the community mental health movement. The author describes the program, its benefits, and some limitations and problems, such as an occasional extra burden on ward personnel. The former patients' new roles as volunteers enabled them to get the support they needed from the hospital but through means more acceptable to them. The program also improved their self-esteem and enabled them to engage in more normalizing social relationships.", "contents": "Patient as volunteer: an assault on chronicity. By integrating selected former patients into its regular volunteer program, a South Australian state hospital reduced the hospital stays and the readmissions of a large number of the participants who had previously been seen as failures of the community mental health movement. The author describes the program, its benefits, and some limitations and problems, such as an occasional extra burden on ward personnel. The former patients' new roles as volunteers enabled them to get the support they needed from the hospital but through means more acceptable to them. The program also improved their self-esteem and enabled them to engage in more normalizing social relationships.", "PMID": 437715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3629", "title": "Suicidal patients in the emergency room: a guide for evaluation and disposition.", "content": "The inexperienced emergency room clinician can find it difficult and frustrating to make decisions about patients who have threatened or attempted suicide. A review of the literature suggests two approaches to the evaluation of suicide-attempters: awareness of demographic and social characteristics that identify patients at high risk of another attempt, and simple numerical rating scales focusing on suicide predictors that help the clinician determine level of risk. The authors discuss how to choose the most appropriate disposition for the suicidal patient and emphasize the need for adequate documentation of the decision in the medical record.", "contents": "Suicidal patients in the emergency room: a guide for evaluation and disposition. The inexperienced emergency room clinician can find it difficult and frustrating to make decisions about patients who have threatened or attempted suicide. A review of the literature suggests two approaches to the evaluation of suicide-attempters: awareness of demographic and social characteristics that identify patients at high risk of another attempt, and simple numerical rating scales focusing on suicide predictors that help the clinician determine level of risk. The authors discuss how to choose the most appropriate disposition for the suicidal patient and emphasize the need for adequate documentation of the decision in the medical record.", "PMID": 437716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3630", "title": "Cost analysis in a CMHC: determining the cost of staff time.", "content": "The program evaluation and research unit of a community mental health center developed and field-tested a survey form to measure how employees spend their time. The form is divided into direct patient care activities, which include interviewing and testing, conducting therapy, and prescribing medications, and administrative or support activities, which include filling out charts, attending meetings, and training staff. All staff record daily, for one week, the hours and minutes they spend in each activity. Using that data as a base, the evaluation unit can determine the percentage of time staff spend in each activity and the cost of each activity based on staff members' paychecks.", "contents": "Cost analysis in a CMHC: determining the cost of staff time. The program evaluation and research unit of a community mental health center developed and field-tested a survey form to measure how employees spend their time. The form is divided into direct patient care activities, which include interviewing and testing, conducting therapy, and prescribing medications, and administrative or support activities, which include filling out charts, attending meetings, and training staff. All staff record daily, for one week, the hours and minutes they spend in each activity. Using that data as a base, the evaluation unit can determine the percentage of time staff spend in each activity and the cost of each activity based on staff members' paychecks.", "PMID": 437717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3631", "title": "Rural areas face woes in health care delivery, try model systems.", "content": "Health planning such as consolidation and closure of facilities and services to contain costs often contradicts rural populations' needs for increased access to better or even basic services/Model programs to meet these needs are discussed.", "contents": "Rural areas face woes in health care delivery, try model systems. Health planning such as consolidation and closure of facilities and services to contain costs often contradicts rural populations' needs for increased access to better or even basic services/Model programs to meet these needs are discussed.", "PMID": 437728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3632", "title": "Urban hospital fosters cooperative programs to expand rural care.", "content": "An urban medical center has found that participation in cooperative programs with surrounding small rural hospitals meets its own need for a broader geographical base of operations and their needs for access to more and specialized services.", "contents": "Urban hospital fosters cooperative programs to expand rural care. An urban medical center has found that participation in cooperative programs with surrounding small rural hospitals meets its own need for a broader geographical base of operations and their needs for access to more and specialized services.", "PMID": 437729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3633", "title": "Israeli delivery system provides outreach care for nomadic Bedouins.", "content": "Israeli's Ministry of health and the Kupat Holim have penetrated cultural barriers, solved logistics, and extended curative and preventive care to a Bedouin population living in Beersheba, outlying villages and small cities, and the Negev Desert.", "contents": "Israeli delivery system provides outreach care for nomadic Bedouins. Israeli's Ministry of health and the Kupat Holim have penetrated cultural barriers, solved logistics, and extended curative and preventive care to a Bedouin population living in Beersheba, outlying villages and small cities, and the Negev Desert.", "PMID": 437730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3634", "title": "What P.L. 94-484 means to hospitals and physicians.", "content": "In this second and final article on the provisions and impact of the Health Professions Educational Assistance Act of 1976 (P.L. 94-484), the law's effects and recommendations on what can be done to cope with them are discussed.", "contents": "What P.L. 94-484 means to hospitals and physicians. In this second and final article on the provisions and impact of the Health Professions Educational Assistance Act of 1976 (P.L. 94-484), the law's effects and recommendations on what can be done to cope with them are discussed.", "PMID": 437731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3635", "title": "When enough is enough.", "content": "The goals of hospitals and hospices are not necessarily incompatible, and hospice care may be an opportunity for hospitals to further humanize their services.", "contents": "When enough is enough. The goals of hospitals and hospices are not necessarily incompatible, and hospice care may be an opportunity for hospitals to further humanize their services.", "PMID": 437732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3636", "title": "New accounting system helps control costs.", "content": "With the split-cost accounting system, charges are made more equitable and patients pay for exactly what they get/Third-party payers in Massachusetts seem to like the system.", "contents": "New accounting system helps control costs. With the split-cost accounting system, charges are made more equitable and patients pay for exactly what they get/Third-party payers in Massachusetts seem to like the system.", "PMID": 437733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3637", "title": "Social Security is still a good deal.", "content": "Employees may be paying part of their Social Security benefits through their personal income taxes in the future/The benefits of the system outweigh its drawbacks.", "contents": "Social Security is still a good deal. Employees may be paying part of their Social Security benefits through their personal income taxes in the future/The benefits of the system outweigh its drawbacks.", "PMID": 437734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3638", "title": "Hospital office leasing is on the rise.", "content": "Eighty percent of medical office buildings currently under construction are being built by hospitals.", "contents": "Hospital office leasing is on the rise. Eighty percent of medical office buildings currently under construction are being built by hospitals.", "PMID": 437735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3639", "title": "Checklist for materials managements.", "content": "Two-part report from the General Accounting Office shows how to evaluate and improve the materials management function in hospitals.", "contents": "Checklist for materials managements. Two-part report from the General Accounting Office shows how to evaluate and improve the materials management function in hospitals.", "PMID": 437736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3640", "title": "The 1980s: the rise of HMOs and marketplace competition.", "content": "Hospitals that fail to take the leadership in the capitation movement will find themselves competing in traditional ways for a shrinking share of the market.", "contents": "The 1980s: the rise of HMOs and marketplace competition. Hospitals that fail to take the leadership in the capitation movement will find themselves competing in traditional ways for a shrinking share of the market.", "PMID": 437739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3641", "title": "Marketing: changing prospective patients' behavior.", "content": "Opportunities must be seen in terms of exchange values, and the hospital--by improving the perceived advantages of hospital use to groups of patients and physicians--can make the most of its marketing opportunities.", "contents": "Marketing: changing prospective patients' behavior. Opportunities must be seen in terms of exchange values, and the hospital--by improving the perceived advantages of hospital use to groups of patients and physicians--can make the most of its marketing opportunities.", "PMID": 437741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3642", "title": "Biomedical challenges: should \"human\" be redefined?", "content": "The advance of biomedical science is raising fundamental questions about the definition of what it is to be human. Theologians and health care professionals must work together in a communal defense of the Church's profound teachings about the holiness and sacramentality of bodied existence and must relate this teaching to current reproductive technologies.", "contents": "Biomedical challenges: should \"human\" be redefined? The advance of biomedical science is raising fundamental questions about the definition of what it is to be human. Theologians and health care professionals must work together in a communal defense of the Church's profound teachings about the holiness and sacramentality of bodied existence and must relate this teaching to current reproductive technologies.", "PMID": 437742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3643", "title": "Environmental factors in affective disorders.", "content": "What are the factors that may precipitate overt depressive illness in the predisposed patient? The available data indicate that for unipolar disease, at least, the clearest correlations are not with economic or social status or with race, but rather with sex. Women display a lifetime risk about twice that of men in the same population, and the differences in social roles of the two sexes are probably largely responsible.", "contents": "Environmental factors in affective disorders. What are the factors that may precipitate overt depressive illness in the predisposed patient? The available data indicate that for unipolar disease, at least, the clearest correlations are not with economic or social status or with race, but rather with sex. Women display a lifetime risk about twice that of men in the same population, and the differences in social roles of the two sexes are probably largely responsible.", "PMID": 437747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3644", "title": "New concepts of chronic pain and their implications.", "content": "When chronic pain fails to respond to therapy, the approach often have been based on outmoded concepts of the nature of pain. The current unified pain theory takes into account recent biochemical advances and can serve as a basis for more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Various treatment modalities are reviewed in the context of the psychology as well as the physiology of severe intractable pain.", "contents": "New concepts of chronic pain and their implications. When chronic pain fails to respond to therapy, the approach often have been based on outmoded concepts of the nature of pain. The current unified pain theory takes into account recent biochemical advances and can serve as a basis for more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Various treatment modalities are reviewed in the context of the psychology as well as the physiology of severe intractable pain.", "PMID": 437749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3645", "title": "Immunologic mechanisms in nephritogenesis.", "content": "At least two different immunopathologic pathways that together account for most clinical nephritis have been delineated. Most common is the situation in which antigen-antibody complexes form in the circulation and lodge in renal basement membranes. The second involves antibodies to specific kidney structures. Both may initiate inflammatory injuries that adversely alter glomerular and tubular function.", "contents": "Immunologic mechanisms in nephritogenesis. At least two different immunopathologic pathways that together account for most clinical nephritis have been delineated. Most common is the situation in which antigen-antibody complexes form in the circulation and lodge in renal basement membranes. The second involves antibodies to specific kidney structures. Both may initiate inflammatory injuries that adversely alter glomerular and tubular function.", "PMID": 437758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3646", "title": "Antibiotic-associated colitis.", "content": "Pseudomembranous colitis, a relatively uncommon and sometimes severe diarrheal disease, recently has been linked to the administration of a number of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The cause has now been identified as a spore-forming clostridial species not previously recognized as a human pathogen. Since the organism is sensitive to moset commonly used antibiotics, its spores may be the key to the disease.", "contents": "Antibiotic-associated colitis. Pseudomembranous colitis, a relatively uncommon and sometimes severe diarrheal disease, recently has been linked to the administration of a number of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The cause has now been identified as a spore-forming clostridial species not previously recognized as a human pathogen. Since the organism is sensitive to moset commonly used antibiotics, its spores may be the key to the disease.", "PMID": 437759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3647", "title": "Insulin treatment of diabetes.", "content": "Normal blood glucose levels can be achieved and maintained in many, possibly most, diabetics who need insulin by basing dosage on currently available clinical-laboratory ahd home-monitoring techniques, thereby postponing or minimizing complications.", "contents": "Insulin treatment of diabetes. Normal blood glucose levels can be achieved and maintained in many, possibly most, diabetics who need insulin by basing dosage on currently available clinical-laboratory ahd home-monitoring techniques, thereby postponing or minimizing complications.", "PMID": 437760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3648", "title": "Trisomy for the distal third of the long arm of chromosome 19 in brother and sister.", "content": "Trisomy for the distal third of the long arm of chromosome 19 was observed in a 12-year-old boy and his 9-year-old sister. Both are affected by extremely severe statural and psychomotor retardation. The physical symptoms common to both are dwarfism, micro- and brachycephaly, antimongoloid slant of the eyes, hypertelorism, ptosis, short nose, short philtrum, poorly formed ears, short neck with excess skin, barrel-shaped thorax, diastasis of rectus muscles, kyphosis, sacral dimple, excess of digital arches, pedes valgi, laterally curved big toes, epilepsy and muscular hypotonia. The chromosomal anomaly was transmitted by the mother, who is the carrier of a translocation t(19;20)(19q133;20pter). In the pedigree, extending over four generations, among 30 pregnancies fathered or mothered by 5 carriers resulted in: 6 individuals with normal karyotype, 9 carriers, 2 confirmed and 2 presumptive unbalanced abnormal children, and 10 abortions.", "contents": "Trisomy for the distal third of the long arm of chromosome 19 in brother and sister. Trisomy for the distal third of the long arm of chromosome 19 was observed in a 12-year-old boy and his 9-year-old sister. Both are affected by extremely severe statural and psychomotor retardation. The physical symptoms common to both are dwarfism, micro- and brachycephaly, antimongoloid slant of the eyes, hypertelorism, ptosis, short nose, short philtrum, poorly formed ears, short neck with excess skin, barrel-shaped thorax, diastasis of rectus muscles, kyphosis, sacral dimple, excess of digital arches, pedes valgi, laterally curved big toes, epilepsy and muscular hypotonia. The chromosomal anomaly was transmitted by the mother, who is the carrier of a translocation t(19;20)(19q133;20pter). In the pedigree, extending over four generations, among 30 pregnancies fathered or mothered by 5 carriers resulted in: 6 individuals with normal karyotype, 9 carriers, 2 confirmed and 2 presumptive unbalanced abnormal children, and 10 abortions.", "PMID": 437769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3649", "title": "\"Complete\" trisomy 5p; de novo translocation t(2;5)(q36;p11) with isochromosome 5p. Case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A case of complete trisomy 5p due to a de novo translocation t(2;5)(q36;p11) with an isochromosome 5p is described. Complete trisomy 5p has been reported only once (Brimblecombe et al., 1977). The confusing literature relating to partial trisomy 5p is reviewed. Comparison of our case with the patients reported by Brimblecombe et al. (1977) and by Opitz and Patau (1975) is suggestive for a distinct clinical syndrome if (almost) the complete short arm of chromosome 5 is present in a trisomic state. Unfortunately the clinical findings in the case of Brimblecombe (1966, 1977) are poorly documented. The main features of this syndrome are: macrocephaly, psychomotor retardation, hypotonia, postnatal growth failure, tracheobronchial involvement, mongoloid slant of the eyes, epicanthus, low-set ears, depressed nasal bridge, short first toe, and seizures.", "contents": "\"Complete\" trisomy 5p; de novo translocation t(2;5)(q36;p11) with isochromosome 5p. Case report and review of the literature. A case of complete trisomy 5p due to a de novo translocation t(2;5)(q36;p11) with an isochromosome 5p is described. Complete trisomy 5p has been reported only once (Brimblecombe et al., 1977). The confusing literature relating to partial trisomy 5p is reviewed. Comparison of our case with the patients reported by Brimblecombe et al. (1977) and by Opitz and Patau (1975) is suggestive for a distinct clinical syndrome if (almost) the complete short arm of chromosome 5 is present in a trisomic state. Unfortunately the clinical findings in the case of Brimblecombe (1966, 1977) are poorly documented. The main features of this syndrome are: macrocephaly, psychomotor retardation, hypotonia, postnatal growth failure, tracheobronchial involvement, mongoloid slant of the eyes, epicanthus, low-set ears, depressed nasal bridge, short first toe, and seizures.", "PMID": 437770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3650", "title": "Trisomy 6q25 to 6qter in a severely retarded 7-year-old boy with turricephaly, bow-shaped mouth, hypogenitalism and club feet.", "content": "Trisomy for a small terminal segment of chromosome 6q produces a characteristic syndrome of malformations and dysmorphic signs which, on the basis of comparison with a previously published case, may be suspected on clinical grounds. The present case concerns a 7-year-old boy, the son of a carrier mother t(6;14)(q25;qter). The main symptoms are: very severe physical and mental retardation, turricephaly, Cupid's bow mouth with narrow lips, almond-shaped eyes with narrow palpebral fissures and ptosis, micropenis with absence of scrotum, club feet, hammer toes, and extension contractures. In addition, there are a great many minor dysmorphic features.", "contents": "Trisomy 6q25 to 6qter in a severely retarded 7-year-old boy with turricephaly, bow-shaped mouth, hypogenitalism and club feet. Trisomy for a small terminal segment of chromosome 6q produces a characteristic syndrome of malformations and dysmorphic signs which, on the basis of comparison with a previously published case, may be suspected on clinical grounds. The present case concerns a 7-year-old boy, the son of a carrier mother t(6;14)(q25;qter). The main symptoms are: very severe physical and mental retardation, turricephaly, Cupid's bow mouth with narrow lips, almond-shaped eyes with narrow palpebral fissures and ptosis, micropenis with absence of scrotum, club feet, hammer toes, and extension contractures. In addition, there are a great many minor dysmorphic features.", "PMID": 437771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3651", "title": "Three cases of sex chromosome mosaicism with a nonfluorescent Y.", "content": "Clinical and cytogenetic findings in three patients mosaic for sex chromosomes (45,X0/46,XY; 45,X0/46,XY/46,XYq-, and 45,X0/46,XY/46,XYY), each with a nonfluorescent Y, are presented. Hypotheses for the origin and effect of these chromosome constitutions are discussed.", "contents": "Three cases of sex chromosome mosaicism with a nonfluorescent Y. Clinical and cytogenetic findings in three patients mosaic for sex chromosomes (45,X0/46,XY; 45,X0/46,XY/46,XYq-, and 45,X0/46,XY/46,XYY), each with a nonfluorescent Y, are presented. Hypotheses for the origin and effect of these chromosome constitutions are discussed.", "PMID": 437772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3652", "title": "Congenital glaucoma: genetic models.", "content": "Modes of inheritance of congenital glaucoma have been studied. Two methods of analysis, complex segregation analysis and frequency of congenital glaucoma in second- and third-degree relatives, did not permit one to retain a unitary mode of inheritance ofthis malformation. Genetic heterogeneity of congenital glaucoma is proposed. Recurrence risks and guidelines for genetic counseling in specified situations are given.", "contents": "Congenital glaucoma: genetic models. Modes of inheritance of congenital glaucoma have been studied. Two methods of analysis, complex segregation analysis and frequency of congenital glaucoma in second- and third-degree relatives, did not permit one to retain a unitary mode of inheritance ofthis malformation. Genetic heterogeneity of congenital glaucoma is proposed. Recurrence risks and guidelines for genetic counseling in specified situations are given.", "PMID": 437773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3653", "title": "Evidence for a null allele at the esterase D (EC 3.1.1.1) locus.", "content": "Electorphoretic and quantitative assays of esterase D in a Caucasian family demonstrate the inheritance of a null allele, which was observed in the heterozygous state in six individuals.", "contents": "Evidence for a null allele at the esterase D (EC 3.1.1.1) locus. Electorphoretic and quantitative assays of esterase D in a Caucasian family demonstrate the inheritance of a null allele, which was observed in the heterozygous state in six individuals.", "PMID": 437774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3654", "title": "Heterozygote manifestation in recessive generalized myotonia.", "content": "The frequency of heterozygotes of recessive generalized myotonia may be estimated at about 1/108 in the German Federal Republic. Some heterozygotes can be identified by an EMG. However, apart from this, apparently 2%--5% of heterozygotes may show minor subclinical manifestations. Sporadic cases of myotonia with late onset and a history of preceding, extremely prolonged physical stress, undernourishment, and/or prolonged cold exposure may be due to heterozygote manifestations of this otherwise recessive gene. Late onset and sporadic appearance also are features in patients with myotonia associated with hypothyroidism. One male patient displayed myotonia after a protracted diabetic coma. In cases reported in the literature where myotonia developed in association with either propranolol (beta-adrenergic blocking agent) or fenoterolhydrobromide (stimulator of beta receptors) heterozygote manifestation of recessive generalized myotonia is suggested.", "contents": "Heterozygote manifestation in recessive generalized myotonia. The frequency of heterozygotes of recessive generalized myotonia may be estimated at about 1/108 in the German Federal Republic. Some heterozygotes can be identified by an EMG. However, apart from this, apparently 2%--5% of heterozygotes may show minor subclinical manifestations. Sporadic cases of myotonia with late onset and a history of preceding, extremely prolonged physical stress, undernourishment, and/or prolonged cold exposure may be due to heterozygote manifestations of this otherwise recessive gene. Late onset and sporadic appearance also are features in patients with myotonia associated with hypothyroidism. One male patient displayed myotonia after a protracted diabetic coma. In cases reported in the literature where myotonia developed in association with either propranolol (beta-adrenergic blocking agent) or fenoterolhydrobromide (stimulator of beta receptors) heterozygote manifestation of recessive generalized myotonia is suggested.", "PMID": 437775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3655", "title": "Frequency of sister chromatid exchanges in Bloom syndrome fibroblasts reduced by cocultivation with normal cells.", "content": "Cocultivation of fibroblast cells from a male patient with Bloom syndrome (BS) and a female control reduced the rate of sister chromatid exchanges in the BS cells from a mean of 54 SCE per metaphase (range 42--65) to 41 (range 24--59). Medium used to culture control cells for 48 h also reduced the rate of SCE (from 40--65 to 33-54), whereas medium used for only 24 h altered the SCE rate only slightly (to 39--61). Dialyzed medium concentrate with molecular cutoff at 15,000 did not alter the SCE rate. These initial studies suggest that normal cells produce an agent, presumably lacking in BS cells, that is capable of mitigating the chromosomal manifestation of the BS mutation (bl) in bl/bl cells.", "contents": "Frequency of sister chromatid exchanges in Bloom syndrome fibroblasts reduced by cocultivation with normal cells. Cocultivation of fibroblast cells from a male patient with Bloom syndrome (BS) and a female control reduced the rate of sister chromatid exchanges in the BS cells from a mean of 54 SCE per metaphase (range 42--65) to 41 (range 24--59). Medium used to culture control cells for 48 h also reduced the rate of SCE (from 40--65 to 33-54), whereas medium used for only 24 h altered the SCE rate only slightly (to 39--61). Dialyzed medium concentrate with molecular cutoff at 15,000 did not alter the SCE rate. These initial studies suggest that normal cells produce an agent, presumably lacking in BS cells, that is capable of mitigating the chromosomal manifestation of the BS mutation (bl) in bl/bl cells.", "PMID": 437776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3656", "title": "Trisomy 8p due to the 3:1 segregation of the balanced translocation t(8;15)mat.", "content": "An additional small G-like chromosome was found in a newborn female with multiple abnormalities and hemorrhagic diathesis. G banding showed that the index patient was trisomic for the short arm of chromosome 8 and revealed the anomaly t(8;15)(q12;p11) in her mother. The relationship between chromosome 8 and multiple hemorrhages is discussed.", "contents": "Trisomy 8p due to the 3:1 segregation of the balanced translocation t(8;15)mat. An additional small G-like chromosome was found in a newborn female with multiple abnormalities and hemorrhagic diathesis. G banding showed that the index patient was trisomic for the short arm of chromosome 8 and revealed the anomaly t(8;15)(q12;p11) in her mother. The relationship between chromosome 8 and multiple hemorrhages is discussed.", "PMID": 437777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3657", "title": "Partial trisomy 18q12, due to intrachromosomal duplication, is not associated with typical 18 trisomy phenotype.", "content": "Partial 18q12 trisomy, due to intrachromosomal duplication, was found in a severely mentally retarded boy. The finding of nonspecific dysmorphism in this patient demonstrates that trisomy of band 18q12 is accompanied by neither a full nor an incomplete 18 trisomy phenotype, indicating that this phenotype may be due solely to trisomy of the 18q11 band.", "contents": "Partial trisomy 18q12, due to intrachromosomal duplication, is not associated with typical 18 trisomy phenotype. Partial 18q12 trisomy, due to intrachromosomal duplication, was found in a severely mentally retarded boy. The finding of nonspecific dysmorphism in this patient demonstrates that trisomy of band 18q12 is accompanied by neither a full nor an incomplete 18 trisomy phenotype, indicating that this phenotype may be due solely to trisomy of the 18q11 band.", "PMID": 437778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3658", "title": "Pure red cell hypoplasia associated with long-arm deletion of chromosome 5.", "content": "A further instance of the new hematologic entity of pure red cell hypoplasia with deletion of the the long arm of a chromosome 5(5q-) was seen in a 59-year-old white male. Examination of the bone marrow showed depressed erythroid cells with normal granulocytic and megakaryocytic precursors. Chromosomal analysis showed deletion of a chromosome 5 without any apparent translocation. This karyotype may be associated with acute leukemia.", "contents": "Pure red cell hypoplasia associated with long-arm deletion of chromosome 5. A further instance of the new hematologic entity of pure red cell hypoplasia with deletion of the the long arm of a chromosome 5(5q-) was seen in a 59-year-old white male. Examination of the bone marrow showed depressed erythroid cells with normal granulocytic and megakaryocytic precursors. Chromosomal analysis showed deletion of a chromosome 5 without any apparent translocation. This karyotype may be associated with acute leukemia.", "PMID": 437779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3659", "title": "The 8p- syndrome.", "content": "A boy with severe retardation of growth and development, minor dysmorphic features, severe congenital heart disease, and a 46,XY,8p-karyotype is described. The clinical findings of this boy are compared with those of others reported monosomic for a portion of the short arm of chromosome 8. The red cell glutathione reductase (GSR) level is normal in our patient.", "contents": "The 8p- syndrome. A boy with severe retardation of growth and development, minor dysmorphic features, severe congenital heart disease, and a 46,XY,8p-karyotype is described. The clinical findings of this boy are compared with those of others reported monosomic for a portion of the short arm of chromosome 8. The red cell glutathione reductase (GSR) level is normal in our patient.", "PMID": 437781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3660", "title": "Clinical and ultrastructural heterogeneity of type IV Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "content": "Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) type IV is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder characterized by thin skin, prominent venous vascular markings, markedly increased bruising, and an increased likelihood of large bowel and large artery rupture. We studied two type IV EDS patients. Both have decreased amounts of type IIII collagen in skin, but ultrastructural examination of dermis showed massive dilation of rough endoplasmic reticulum in dermal fibroblasts in one, but not the other. Both had a major population of collagen fibrils of small diameter. Although previous studies suggested absent synthesis of type III collagen as the hallmark of one type of EDS IV, several abnormalities in metabolism of that type of collagen may be responsible for the phenotype in these disorders. Such disorders are likely to provide better understanding of the function of specific collagens in tissues.", "contents": "Clinical and ultrastructural heterogeneity of type IV Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) type IV is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder characterized by thin skin, prominent venous vascular markings, markedly increased bruising, and an increased likelihood of large bowel and large artery rupture. We studied two type IV EDS patients. Both have decreased amounts of type IIII collagen in skin, but ultrastructural examination of dermis showed massive dilation of rough endoplasmic reticulum in dermal fibroblasts in one, but not the other. Both had a major population of collagen fibrils of small diameter. Although previous studies suggested absent synthesis of type III collagen as the hallmark of one type of EDS IV, several abnormalities in metabolism of that type of collagen may be responsible for the phenotype in these disorders. Such disorders are likely to provide better understanding of the function of specific collagens in tissues.", "PMID": 437782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3661", "title": "Digital ridge counts and genetic fields.", "content": "Principal components analysis of quantitative digital dermatoglyphics in a large Oxfordshire sample, subdivided into male, female, urban, and rural subsamples, suggests several distinguishable components. These appear meaningful biologically in that they resemble factors of limb growth, as suggested by evidence from disturbances in limb extremity development. The components are consistent in all four subsamples and are very similar to those identified in a large sample of Berkshire data. It is suggested that digital quantitative dermatoglyphic variation may provide an example of genetic field theory.", "contents": "Digital ridge counts and genetic fields. Principal components analysis of quantitative digital dermatoglyphics in a large Oxfordshire sample, subdivided into male, female, urban, and rural subsamples, suggests several distinguishable components. These appear meaningful biologically in that they resemble factors of limb growth, as suggested by evidence from disturbances in limb extremity development. The components are consistent in all four subsamples and are very similar to those identified in a large sample of Berkshire data. It is suggested that digital quantitative dermatoglyphic variation may provide an example of genetic field theory.", "PMID": 437783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3662", "title": "Neuraminidase treatment reveals sialic acid differences in certain genetic variants of the Gc system (vitamin-D-binding protein).", "content": "Common and rare Gc phenotypes were analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis immunofixation and by isoelectric focusing immunofixation before and after neuraminidase treatment. There is a difference between Gc types with double-band and with single-band patterns. Neuraminidase affects only Gc types with a double-band pattern: The double-band pattern is reduced to a single-band pattern. The anodal band disappears after removal of sialic acid by enzymatic cleavage; the cathodal band remains unchanged in its position and becomes stronger. Single-band Gc phenotypes remain unaltered after neuraminidase treatment.", "contents": "Neuraminidase treatment reveals sialic acid differences in certain genetic variants of the Gc system (vitamin-D-binding protein). Common and rare Gc phenotypes were analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis immunofixation and by isoelectric focusing immunofixation before and after neuraminidase treatment. There is a difference between Gc types with double-band and with single-band patterns. Neuraminidase affects only Gc types with a double-band pattern: The double-band pattern is reduced to a single-band pattern. The anodal band disappears after removal of sialic acid by enzymatic cleavage; the cathodal band remains unchanged in its position and becomes stronger. Single-band Gc phenotypes remain unaltered after neuraminidase treatment.", "PMID": 437784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3663", "title": "The length of the Y chromosome in Nubian males and its location in metaphase spreads.", "content": "A total of 242 metaphase plates from the peripheral blood of Nubian males living near Aswan, Egypt were studied with respect to the length of the Y chromosome and its location in metaphase spreads. The length of the Y was similar to that found in American Negroes, and the Y chromosome was peripherally located in 79 of the 242 cells.", "contents": "The length of the Y chromosome in Nubian males and its location in metaphase spreads. A total of 242 metaphase plates from the peripheral blood of Nubian males living near Aswan, Egypt were studied with respect to the length of the Y chromosome and its location in metaphase spreads. The length of the Y was similar to that found in American Negroes, and the Y chromosome was peripherally located in 79 of the 242 cells.", "PMID": 437785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3664", "title": "Chromosome deletion [46,XX,del(20)(q11)] in agnogenic myeloid metaplasia.", "content": "A woman in the fourth year of agnogenic myeloid metaplasia was found to have partial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 20 [46,XX,del(20)(q11)] in mitoses of presumably immature myeloid cells from unstimulated cultures of peripheral blood and bone marrow. Cytogenetic studies of peripheral blood lymphocytes showed a normal female karyotype.", "contents": "Chromosome deletion [46,XX,del(20)(q11)] in agnogenic myeloid metaplasia. A woman in the fourth year of agnogenic myeloid metaplasia was found to have partial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 20 [46,XX,del(20)(q11)] in mitoses of presumably immature myeloid cells from unstimulated cultures of peripheral blood and bone marrow. Cytogenetic studies of peripheral blood lymphocytes showed a normal female karyotype.", "PMID": 437786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3665", "title": "Ring chromosome 22 in a mentally retarded child and mosaic 45,XX,-15,-22,+t(15;22)(p11;q11)/46,XX,r(22)/46,XX karyotype in the mother.", "content": "A ring chromosome 22 is described in a 6-year-old mentally retarded boy, who presented a dysmorphic syndrome. The ring chromosome 22 was inherited from the mother, in whom a 46,XX/46,XX,r(22)/45,XY,-15,-22,+t(15;22)(p11;q11) mosaic karyotype was found, indicating a high degree of instability of the chromosome(s) 22 in this woman.", "contents": "Ring chromosome 22 in a mentally retarded child and mosaic 45,XX,-15,-22,+t(15;22)(p11;q11)/46,XX,r(22)/46,XX karyotype in the mother. A ring chromosome 22 is described in a 6-year-old mentally retarded boy, who presented a dysmorphic syndrome. The ring chromosome 22 was inherited from the mother, in whom a 46,XX/46,XX,r(22)/45,XY,-15,-22,+t(15;22)(p11;q11) mosaic karyotype was found, indicating a high degree of instability of the chromosome(s) 22 in this woman.", "PMID": 437787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3666", "title": "Partial duplication of the short arm of chromosome 10. Karyotype: 46,XX,dup(10p)(pter to p12::p12::p12 to qter).", "content": "A 21-year-old mentally retarded female with 10p12 trisomy is reported. She presented a slight craniofacial dysmorphism very similar to that found in the full 10p-trisomy syndrome. Other features usually found in full 10p trisomy, however, such as failure to thrive and internal malformations, were absent.", "contents": "Partial duplication of the short arm of chromosome 10. Karyotype: 46,XX,dup(10p)(pter to p12::p12::p12 to qter). A 21-year-old mentally retarded female with 10p12 trisomy is reported. She presented a slight craniofacial dysmorphism very similar to that found in the full 10p-trisomy syndrome. Other features usually found in full 10p trisomy, however, such as failure to thrive and internal malformations, were absent.", "PMID": 437788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3667", "title": "Prenatal diagnosis and postnatal follow-up of an abnormal child with two de novo apparently balanced translocations.", "content": "By prenatal diagnosis two apparently unrelated reciprocal translocations involving chromosomes 6/15 and 13/14 were revealed in a fetus in whom echography demonstrated an abdominal tumor. Pregnancy continued. At birth the child had dysmorphia and hydronephrosis, for which surgery was performed. The psychomotor development was delayed. These abnormalities may be the result of the loss of a small amount of chromosomal material accompanying these translocations.", "contents": "Prenatal diagnosis and postnatal follow-up of an abnormal child with two de novo apparently balanced translocations. By prenatal diagnosis two apparently unrelated reciprocal translocations involving chromosomes 6/15 and 13/14 were revealed in a fetus in whom echography demonstrated an abdominal tumor. Pregnancy continued. At birth the child had dysmorphia and hydronephrosis, for which surgery was performed. The psychomotor development was delayed. These abnormalities may be the result of the loss of a small amount of chromosomal material accompanying these translocations.", "PMID": 437789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3668", "title": "Chromosome mutations and chromosome stability in children treated with different regimes of immunosuppressive drugs.", "content": "The chromosome mutations and the number of sister chromatid exchanges induced by different kinds of immunosuppressive treatment were investigated in children and adults with certain types of renal diseases. The aim of the study was to find among the treatment schedules those promising good therapeutic results with the least mutagenic effects. A slightly decreased chromosome stability was found in the patients treated by cyclophosphamide therapy.", "contents": "Chromosome mutations and chromosome stability in children treated with different regimes of immunosuppressive drugs. The chromosome mutations and the number of sister chromatid exchanges induced by different kinds of immunosuppressive treatment were investigated in children and adults with certain types of renal diseases. The aim of the study was to find among the treatment schedules those promising good therapeutic results with the least mutagenic effects. A slightly decreased chromosome stability was found in the patients treated by cyclophosphamide therapy.", "PMID": 437790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3669", "title": "The effects of inbreeding and of some genetic polymorphisms on blood pressures, pulse rate and hematocrit in Northeastern Brazil.", "content": "The possible role of genetic mechanisms, as revealed by inbreeding depression and pleiotropic effects of the ABO, Es D and CA II loci, on blood pressures, pulse rate and hematocrit, was studied in a sample of 7,642 migrant Brazilian individuals of rural origin. It was not possible to confirm previous claims of the effects of ABO blood groups system and inbreeding on diastolic blood pressure. On the other hand, a significant inbreeding depression on pulse rate of about 1.23 bmp/10% F, among adult individuals, was revealed. The observed significant effects of several markers on hemodynamic variables, due to its number, were attributed to chance.", "contents": "The effects of inbreeding and of some genetic polymorphisms on blood pressures, pulse rate and hematocrit in Northeastern Brazil. The possible role of genetic mechanisms, as revealed by inbreeding depression and pleiotropic effects of the ABO, Es D and CA II loci, on blood pressures, pulse rate and hematocrit, was studied in a sample of 7,642 migrant Brazilian individuals of rural origin. It was not possible to confirm previous claims of the effects of ABO blood groups system and inbreeding on diastolic blood pressure. On the other hand, a significant inbreeding depression on pulse rate of about 1.23 bmp/10% F, among adult individuals, was revealed. The observed significant effects of several markers on hemodynamic variables, due to its number, were attributed to chance.", "PMID": 437791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3670", "title": "Purine base transport in normal and mutant erythrocytes.", "content": "The uptake of adenine and hypoxanthine in HGPRT-deficient and normal human erythrocytes was measured using a rapid filtering centrifugation technique. The transport of hypoxanthine as well as of adenine is impaired in the mutant cells. The transport of hypoxanthine into HGPRT-deficient erythrocytes differs from that into normal cells with respect to a higher accumulation capacity, to lower initial velocities and to the kinetic properties of the translocator. In addition, a higher accumulation capacity and lower initial velocities of adenine uptake could be demonstrated in mutant cells. A linkage of the purine translocator with purine phosphoribosyltransferases associated with the erythrocyte membrane is discussed.", "contents": "Purine base transport in normal and mutant erythrocytes. The uptake of adenine and hypoxanthine in HGPRT-deficient and normal human erythrocytes was measured using a rapid filtering centrifugation technique. The transport of hypoxanthine as well as of adenine is impaired in the mutant cells. The transport of hypoxanthine into HGPRT-deficient erythrocytes differs from that into normal cells with respect to a higher accumulation capacity, to lower initial velocities and to the kinetic properties of the translocator. In addition, a higher accumulation capacity and lower initial velocities of adenine uptake could be demonstrated in mutant cells. A linkage of the purine translocator with purine phosphoribosyltransferases associated with the erythrocyte membrane is discussed.", "PMID": 437792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3671", "title": "Human saliva as a source of biochemical genetic markers. I. Techniques.", "content": "The number of genetic markers identified in human saliva is still small compared to known genetic markers of blood. Enzyme activities that can be detected in human saliva by spectrophotometric techniques are listed. The methodologies currently available for the detection of biochemical genetic markers by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis are summarized.", "contents": "Human saliva as a source of biochemical genetic markers. I. Techniques. The number of genetic markers identified in human saliva is still small compared to known genetic markers of blood. Enzyme activities that can be detected in human saliva by spectrophotometric techniques are listed. The methodologies currently available for the detection of biochemical genetic markers by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis are summarized.", "PMID": 437793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3672", "title": "Anthropometric and physiological properties in the determination of biological distances.", "content": "The investigation of anthropometric dimensions of the body and head, lung function tests and blood pressure was carried out in 3 separate groups. The analysis of 'distances' between particular pairs of the analyzed groups was performed by Penrose's CH2 and its components CQ2 and (v-l/v)CZ2. It is pointed to various ways of diversification of particular characteristics, which is likely to depend on different selective inertia of particular traits, that is, on different intensity of the effect of genetic and/or ecological factors on their formation. It is shown that as many different biological characteristics of human groups as possible should be taken into consideration for the calculation of 'distances'.", "contents": "Anthropometric and physiological properties in the determination of biological distances. The investigation of anthropometric dimensions of the body and head, lung function tests and blood pressure was carried out in 3 separate groups. The analysis of 'distances' between particular pairs of the analyzed groups was performed by Penrose's CH2 and its components CQ2 and (v-l/v)CZ2. It is pointed to various ways of diversification of particular characteristics, which is likely to depend on different selective inertia of particular traits, that is, on different intensity of the effect of genetic and/or ecological factors on their formation. It is shown that as many different biological characteristics of human groups as possible should be taken into consideration for the calculation of 'distances'.", "PMID": 437794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3673", "title": "Inheritance of Indian childhood cirrhosis.", "content": "Detailed pedigree charts were prepared from 120 index patients suffering from Indian childhood cirrhosis (ICC). Of the 120 families, 84 were informative for segregation analysis. Since families were ascertained through patients who came to hospital for treatment, the data were analyzed according to a single-selection model. The observed segregation ratio for the entire data was significantly lower than the one expected under the hypothesis of autosomal recessive inheritance (p = smaller than 0.005). On the other hand, the segregation data for families with at least two affected children (multiplex families) were compatible with autosomal recessive inheritance. On this basis, however, at least 50% of all the cases of ICC would have to be of nongenetic origin. Alternatively, analysis of the data by the Falconer method indicated that ICC could be of multifactorial origin with very strong genetic determination (over 85%).", "contents": "Inheritance of Indian childhood cirrhosis. Detailed pedigree charts were prepared from 120 index patients suffering from Indian childhood cirrhosis (ICC). Of the 120 families, 84 were informative for segregation analysis. Since families were ascertained through patients who came to hospital for treatment, the data were analyzed according to a single-selection model. The observed segregation ratio for the entire data was significantly lower than the one expected under the hypothesis of autosomal recessive inheritance (p = smaller than 0.005). On the other hand, the segregation data for families with at least two affected children (multiplex families) were compatible with autosomal recessive inheritance. On this basis, however, at least 50% of all the cases of ICC would have to be of nongenetic origin. Alternatively, analysis of the data by the Falconer method indicated that ICC could be of multifactorial origin with very strong genetic determination (over 85%).", "PMID": 437795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3674", "title": "Some aspects of the occurrence of new mutations in haemophilia.", "content": "Using the data available on a group of carriers of haemophilia, the mutation rate in the male germ line was compared with that of the female germ line. The mutation rate among the male germ line was about 1-2 times that in the female germ line. An assessment of grandparental ages as a factor in the production of new mutations of haemophilia was also investigated.", "contents": "Some aspects of the occurrence of new mutations in haemophilia. Using the data available on a group of carriers of haemophilia, the mutation rate in the male germ line was compared with that of the female germ line. The mutation rate among the male germ line was about 1-2 times that in the female germ line. An assessment of grandparental ages as a factor in the production of new mutations of haemophilia was also investigated.", "PMID": 437796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3675", "title": "Anthropometric differences between sicklers and nonsicklers in Zairian adults.", "content": "From a sample of 1,079 male adult Zairians living in regions where falciparum malaria is endemic 212 sicklers and 867 nonsicklers were compared for eight anthropometric variables. The two groups did not differ significantly in their variances. The sicklers had a higher mean for seven variables, but significantly so for head breadth only. These results are discussed in terms of the balance of the possible effects of the AS genotype on growth and of the possible selective effects of death from malaria in infancy.", "contents": "Anthropometric differences between sicklers and nonsicklers in Zairian adults. From a sample of 1,079 male adult Zairians living in regions where falciparum malaria is endemic 212 sicklers and 867 nonsicklers were compared for eight anthropometric variables. The two groups did not differ significantly in their variances. The sicklers had a higher mean for seven variables, but significantly so for head breadth only. These results are discussed in terms of the balance of the possible effects of the AS genotype on growth and of the possible selective effects of death from malaria in infancy.", "PMID": 437797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3676", "title": "The importance of stroma in morphogenesis and functional activity of urogenital epithelium.", "content": "Urogenital morphogenesis and cytodifferentiation are presented in the context of the epithelial-stromal interaction. The essential role of stroma in the processes is reviewed.", "contents": "The importance of stroma in morphogenesis and functional activity of urogenital epithelium. Urogenital morphogenesis and cytodifferentiation are presented in the context of the epithelial-stromal interaction. The essential role of stroma in the processes is reviewed.", "PMID": 437808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3677", "title": "[Cell kinetics in experimental rheumatoid lesions and application in antirheumatic drug research (author's transl)].", "content": "The kinetics of chronic inflammatory cellular infiltrates in antiglobulin-induced arthritis, peritonitis and subcutaneous fibrin granuloma were investigated. Only small numbers of the mononuclear cells were labeled after 3H-thymidine impulse labeling, whereas a high labeling index results after 3H-thymidine labeling of the bone marrow. It is concluded that in experimental arthritis the inflammatory so-called cellular hyperplasia consists in bone marrow derived mononuclear cells. In experimental peritonitis glucocorticoid treatment decreases the 3H-thymidine labeling indices. By means of such labeling studies the antiproliferative and antiexsudative properties of steroids were demonstrated quantitatively. Therefore we suggest to make use of experimental cell kinetics for the recognition of anti-rheumatic drugs.", "contents": "[Cell kinetics in experimental rheumatoid lesions and application in antirheumatic drug research (author's transl)]. The kinetics of chronic inflammatory cellular infiltrates in antiglobulin-induced arthritis, peritonitis and subcutaneous fibrin granuloma were investigated. Only small numbers of the mononuclear cells were labeled after 3H-thymidine impulse labeling, whereas a high labeling index results after 3H-thymidine labeling of the bone marrow. It is concluded that in experimental arthritis the inflammatory so-called cellular hyperplasia consists in bone marrow derived mononuclear cells. In experimental peritonitis glucocorticoid treatment decreases the 3H-thymidine labeling indices. By means of such labeling studies the antiproliferative and antiexsudative properties of steroids were demonstrated quantitatively. Therefore we suggest to make use of experimental cell kinetics for the recognition of anti-rheumatic drugs.", "PMID": 437821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3678", "title": "[Phagocytosis and nitroblue-tetrazolium reduction. Methodical variation (author's transl)].", "content": "A variation of the method of Preisig and Hitzig (18) for the determination of phagocytosis and NBT-reduction of polymorphonuclear granulocytes and monocytes in the peripheral blood is described. Contact with infectious cultures of Candida albicans is avoided by the use of baker's yeast for phagocytosis. Methylgreen is replaced by nuclear fast red for staining. The dye solution can be used over a longer period, the stained slides do not lose their colour, the contrast with the reduced blue NBT is more intense. The application of the method is demonstrated by the results of the test in the family of a boy suffering from CGD.", "contents": "[Phagocytosis and nitroblue-tetrazolium reduction. Methodical variation (author's transl)]. A variation of the method of Preisig and Hitzig (18) for the determination of phagocytosis and NBT-reduction of polymorphonuclear granulocytes and monocytes in the peripheral blood is described. Contact with infectious cultures of Candida albicans is avoided by the use of baker's yeast for phagocytosis. Methylgreen is replaced by nuclear fast red for staining. The dye solution can be used over a longer period, the stained slides do not lose their colour, the contrast with the reduced blue NBT is more intense. The application of the method is demonstrated by the results of the test in the family of a boy suffering from CGD.", "PMID": 437822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3679", "title": "[Complement-fixing antibodies to chlamydia in the population (author's transl)].", "content": "2,213 sera of normal persons and of men with nongonococcal urethritis were tested by CF. 4.5% of the males, 9.2% of the females, and 10.8% of the urethritis-patients had titers of 1 : greater than or equal to 16 when tested against a group-specific chlamydial antigen. The usefullness of the CFT for seroepidemiological studies was confirmed.", "contents": "[Complement-fixing antibodies to chlamydia in the population (author's transl)]. 2,213 sera of normal persons and of men with nongonococcal urethritis were tested by CF. 4.5% of the males, 9.2% of the females, and 10.8% of the urethritis-patients had titers of 1 : greater than or equal to 16 when tested against a group-specific chlamydial antigen. The usefullness of the CFT for seroepidemiological studies was confirmed.", "PMID": 437823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3680", "title": "Abnormality of spontaneous lymphokine synthesis by lymphocytes of patients with connective tissue disorders.", "content": "Forty-seven patients with various connective tissue disorders were studied to evaluate the spontaneous release of lymphocyte factors affecting the in vitro migration of guinea pig macrophages. In the assay used the lymphocytes from 8 patients produced an excessive amount of factors inhibiting macrophage migration while the lymphocytes from 12 patients produced an enhancement of migration. There were no differences in the delayed hypersensitivity skin test responses between the 2 groups of patients. The data are consistent with either an abnormality of suppressor lymphocyte function or an altered lymphocyte subpopulation relationship as a factor in this in vitro abnormality.", "contents": "Abnormality of spontaneous lymphokine synthesis by lymphocytes of patients with connective tissue disorders. Forty-seven patients with various connective tissue disorders were studied to evaluate the spontaneous release of lymphocyte factors affecting the in vitro migration of guinea pig macrophages. In the assay used the lymphocytes from 8 patients produced an excessive amount of factors inhibiting macrophage migration while the lymphocytes from 12 patients produced an enhancement of migration. There were no differences in the delayed hypersensitivity skin test responses between the 2 groups of patients. The data are consistent with either an abnormality of suppressor lymphocyte function or an altered lymphocyte subpopulation relationship as a factor in this in vitro abnormality.", "PMID": 437824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3681", "title": "Kinetics of cellular and humoral response of rabbits immunized with mycoplasma pneumoniae.", "content": "The cellular and humoral responses of rabbits immunized with Mycoplasms pneumoniae antigen in saline or incorporated in Freund's complete adjuvant were examined. Peripheral blood leukocytes were used for the leukocyte migration inhibition (LMI) test. Both groups of animals showed significant LMI activity in the presence of M. pneumoniae as well as cross-reacting M. salivarium antigens but response to M. pneumoniae antigen was more pronounced. In the humoral response no such cross-reactivity was observed. Although some of the animals (3/8) demonstrated antibodies to M. salivarium prior to immunization the titers were not influenced by the immunization with M. pneumoniae antigen. Both groups of animals produced antibodies to M. pneumoniae antigen only, but significantly higher titers were observed in the adjuvant group. Cold hemagglutinins in both groups appeared earlier than the specific antibodies to mycoplasma. The adjuvant had no effect on the production of the cold agglutinins.", "contents": "Kinetics of cellular and humoral response of rabbits immunized with mycoplasma pneumoniae. The cellular and humoral responses of rabbits immunized with Mycoplasms pneumoniae antigen in saline or incorporated in Freund's complete adjuvant were examined. Peripheral blood leukocytes were used for the leukocyte migration inhibition (LMI) test. Both groups of animals showed significant LMI activity in the presence of M. pneumoniae as well as cross-reacting M. salivarium antigens but response to M. pneumoniae antigen was more pronounced. In the humoral response no such cross-reactivity was observed. Although some of the animals (3/8) demonstrated antibodies to M. salivarium prior to immunization the titers were not influenced by the immunization with M. pneumoniae antigen. Both groups of animals produced antibodies to M. pneumoniae antigen only, but significantly higher titers were observed in the adjuvant group. Cold hemagglutinins in both groups appeared earlier than the specific antibodies to mycoplasma. The adjuvant had no effect on the production of the cold agglutinins.", "PMID": 437825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3682", "title": "The relative capacity of corneal, heart, kidney and skin cells to stimulate allogeneic lymphocytes.", "content": "In stimultaneous experiments, the ability of inbred Wistar-Furth rat corneal cells to stimulate inbred Fisher rat lymphocytes in mixed culture was compared with the stimulatory capacity of the same number of Wistar-Furth skin, kidney, heart and lymphocyte cells. The tissue cells were dissociated and after inhibition by mitomycin C cultured with an equal number of allogeneic spleen lymphocytes for 5 days. In all of these mixed cell cultures, the allogeneic lymphocytic response was mainly to the major Ag-B2 histocompatibility antigen. The stimulatory effect of corneal cells was found to be the same as that of heart, kidney and skin cells. The data indicate a lack of differences between the density of histocompatibility antigens on the surfaces of these cells.", "contents": "The relative capacity of corneal, heart, kidney and skin cells to stimulate allogeneic lymphocytes. In stimultaneous experiments, the ability of inbred Wistar-Furth rat corneal cells to stimulate inbred Fisher rat lymphocytes in mixed culture was compared with the stimulatory capacity of the same number of Wistar-Furth skin, kidney, heart and lymphocyte cells. The tissue cells were dissociated and after inhibition by mitomycin C cultured with an equal number of allogeneic spleen lymphocytes for 5 days. In all of these mixed cell cultures, the allogeneic lymphocytic response was mainly to the major Ag-B2 histocompatibility antigen. The stimulatory effect of corneal cells was found to be the same as that of heart, kidney and skin cells. The data indicate a lack of differences between the density of histocompatibility antigens on the surfaces of these cells.", "PMID": 437826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3683", "title": "Stability of peripheral blood lymphocyte count and E-rosette forming lymphocytes in healthy adults.", "content": "Highly reproducible peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) count and percent E-rosette forming lymphocyte (%E-RFL) assays were developed by modifying existing procedures. PBL count assay variation was reduced by using replicate electronic white blood cell (WBC) counting and 2,000 WBC differentials. The %E-RFL assay modifications reduced variation and include the use of: (a) a capillary buffy coat isolation procedure that recovered more than 85% of the PBL without the use of chemical separation media, (b) centrifugation temperatures of 20--22 degrees C, and (c) toluidine blue staining that allowed enumeration of %E-RFL and not E-rosette forming cells, by exclusion of nonlymphoid cells. Day-to-day variation of PBL count and %E-RFL was defined by making serial determinations over a period of months. The data indicate that healthy adults maintain PBL counts and %E-RFL within narrow ranges that are specific for each individual.", "contents": "Stability of peripheral blood lymphocyte count and E-rosette forming lymphocytes in healthy adults. Highly reproducible peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) count and percent E-rosette forming lymphocyte (%E-RFL) assays were developed by modifying existing procedures. PBL count assay variation was reduced by using replicate electronic white blood cell (WBC) counting and 2,000 WBC differentials. The %E-RFL assay modifications reduced variation and include the use of: (a) a capillary buffy coat isolation procedure that recovered more than 85% of the PBL without the use of chemical separation media, (b) centrifugation temperatures of 20--22 degrees C, and (c) toluidine blue staining that allowed enumeration of %E-RFL and not E-rosette forming cells, by exclusion of nonlymphoid cells. Day-to-day variation of PBL count and %E-RFL was defined by making serial determinations over a period of months. The data indicate that healthy adults maintain PBL counts and %E-RFL within narrow ranges that are specific for each individual.", "PMID": 437827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3684", "title": "Isolation of stable aggregates of IgG by zonal ultracentrifugation in sucrose gradients containing albumin.", "content": "Soluble heat aggregates of [125I]IgG (A-IgG) were prepared and separated by gel filtration or by zonal ultracentrifugation, and fractions containing different size aggregates were then analyzed by reultracentrifugation. A-IgG formed single narrow peaks with constant S rates when isolated, stored and analyzed in solution containing 0.5% serum albumin. Thus, stable homogeneous aggregates of IgG of known size can be simply prepared and should prove useful both as a model for immune complexes of specified sizes and as a standard for immune complex assays.", "contents": "Isolation of stable aggregates of IgG by zonal ultracentrifugation in sucrose gradients containing albumin. Soluble heat aggregates of [125I]IgG (A-IgG) were prepared and separated by gel filtration or by zonal ultracentrifugation, and fractions containing different size aggregates were then analyzed by reultracentrifugation. A-IgG formed single narrow peaks with constant S rates when isolated, stored and analyzed in solution containing 0.5% serum albumin. Thus, stable homogeneous aggregates of IgG of known size can be simply prepared and should prove useful both as a model for immune complexes of specified sizes and as a standard for immune complex assays.", "PMID": 437828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3685", "title": "Uptake of 125I-labelled C3a by cultured human endothelial cells.", "content": "The interactions of C3a anaphylatoxin with vascular endothelium were studied in vitro using human endothelial cells in culture and 125I-labelled human C3a. Cultured endothelial cells took up 125I-C3a in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and inactivated it. Uptake was not associated with binding to specific receptors since the amount of radioactivity accumulated by the cells was not influenced by treatment with excess unlabelled peptide, metabolic inhibitors or by low temperature. Further, we observed that uptake was not saturated during 90 min of incubation or within the concentration range of C3a tested (10(-9)--10(-6) M). C3a was taken up more rapidly than other labelled, less basic compounds, including Tyr5-bradykinin, lysozyme and albumin. Examination of the cells by autoradiographic electron microscopy revealed labelled material within the cell cysoplasm but not within specific intracellular structures, such as vesicles or vacuoles. C3a was partially inactivated after incubation with endothelial cells for 15 min, but some spasmogenic activity was retained even after 90 min incubation. Since the peptide is readily inactivated by the cells, the radioactivity in the cytoplasm may be inactive C3a and possibly C3a fragments. The combination of uptake and inactivation of C3a by endothelial cells may be an effective means of removing the peptide from circulation.", "contents": "Uptake of 125I-labelled C3a by cultured human endothelial cells. The interactions of C3a anaphylatoxin with vascular endothelium were studied in vitro using human endothelial cells in culture and 125I-labelled human C3a. Cultured endothelial cells took up 125I-C3a in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and inactivated it. Uptake was not associated with binding to specific receptors since the amount of radioactivity accumulated by the cells was not influenced by treatment with excess unlabelled peptide, metabolic inhibitors or by low temperature. Further, we observed that uptake was not saturated during 90 min of incubation or within the concentration range of C3a tested (10(-9)--10(-6) M). C3a was taken up more rapidly than other labelled, less basic compounds, including Tyr5-bradykinin, lysozyme and albumin. Examination of the cells by autoradiographic electron microscopy revealed labelled material within the cell cysoplasm but not within specific intracellular structures, such as vesicles or vacuoles. C3a was partially inactivated after incubation with endothelial cells for 15 min, but some spasmogenic activity was retained even after 90 min incubation. Since the peptide is readily inactivated by the cells, the radioactivity in the cytoplasm may be inactive C3a and possibly C3a fragments. The combination of uptake and inactivation of C3a by endothelial cells may be an effective means of removing the peptide from circulation.", "PMID": 437829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3686", "title": "Neonatal thymus grafts. I. Studies on the regulation of the level of circulating thymic factor (FTS).", "content": "The level of circulating thymic factor (FTS) tested by its action on spleen rosette-forming cells from adult thymectomized mice, has been shown to be stable in young animals. This stability suggests a regulatory mechanism. An approach of this regulation has been attempted by disrupting the FTS level either by neonatal thymus grafting in adult normal and thymectomized animals, or by injections of synthetic thymic factor into normal, thymectomized mice, grafted or ungrafted. In all cases, after an initial increase over the normal value, FTS levels returned close to the previous range, indicating the existence of some homeostatic mechanism of FTS secretion.", "contents": "Neonatal thymus grafts. I. Studies on the regulation of the level of circulating thymic factor (FTS). The level of circulating thymic factor (FTS) tested by its action on spleen rosette-forming cells from adult thymectomized mice, has been shown to be stable in young animals. This stability suggests a regulatory mechanism. An approach of this regulation has been attempted by disrupting the FTS level either by neonatal thymus grafting in adult normal and thymectomized animals, or by injections of synthetic thymic factor into normal, thymectomized mice, grafted or ungrafted. In all cases, after an initial increase over the normal value, FTS levels returned close to the previous range, indicating the existence of some homeostatic mechanism of FTS secretion.", "PMID": 437830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3687", "title": "Neonatal thymus grafts. II. Cellular events.", "content": "Neonatal thymus undergoes sequential necrosis and cell regeneration after grafting under the kidney capsule in normal and thymectomized recipients. This regeneration assessed in terms of cell number, response to mitogens, in vivo steroid sensitivity, level of antigen-binding cells, and cellular distribution on Ficoll gradient is not influenced by the presence of host thymus or by FTS injections. The grafted thymus shows a similar pattern of development as control thymus of the same age followed up in situ, with the exception of age-related involution the onset of which takes place earlier in the grafted thymus.", "contents": "Neonatal thymus grafts. II. Cellular events. Neonatal thymus undergoes sequential necrosis and cell regeneration after grafting under the kidney capsule in normal and thymectomized recipients. This regeneration assessed in terms of cell number, response to mitogens, in vivo steroid sensitivity, level of antigen-binding cells, and cellular distribution on Ficoll gradient is not influenced by the presence of host thymus or by FTS injections. The grafted thymus shows a similar pattern of development as control thymus of the same age followed up in situ, with the exception of age-related involution the onset of which takes place earlier in the grafted thymus.", "PMID": 437831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3688", "title": "A theoretical approach to precipitin reactions: insight from computer simulation.", "content": "The theoretical consequences of different hypotheses of the mechanism of precipitin reactions have been evaluated by means of computer simulation. It has been found that the formation of compositionally different complexes in different antigen/antibody mixtures provides a valid explanation of the zoning phenomenon, but this concept fails to explain the absence of free antigen and of antigen in soluble complexes at the point of maximum percipitation. It is found that the following hypothesis provides an improved qualitative and quantitative explanation of percipitin reactions. In the first stage of the total reaction a series of compositionally different complexes is formed. As the second stage of the total reaction two kinds of processes are proposed. Inherently insoluble complexes precipitate causing the remaining soluble complexes to participate in mutual rearrangements to re-establish a new state of equilibrium in the supernatant. The inherently insoluble complexes, moreover, create a hydrophobic phase, distinct from the supernatant and cause the remaining otherwise soluble complexes to distribute themselves between the two phases according to a partition coefficient. A mathematical apparatus to study the consequences of this hypothesis is presented, and it is demonstrated that the features of precipitin curves can be explained nearly completely this way.", "contents": "A theoretical approach to precipitin reactions: insight from computer simulation. The theoretical consequences of different hypotheses of the mechanism of precipitin reactions have been evaluated by means of computer simulation. It has been found that the formation of compositionally different complexes in different antigen/antibody mixtures provides a valid explanation of the zoning phenomenon, but this concept fails to explain the absence of free antigen and of antigen in soluble complexes at the point of maximum percipitation. It is found that the following hypothesis provides an improved qualitative and quantitative explanation of percipitin reactions. In the first stage of the total reaction a series of compositionally different complexes is formed. As the second stage of the total reaction two kinds of processes are proposed. Inherently insoluble complexes precipitate causing the remaining soluble complexes to participate in mutual rearrangements to re-establish a new state of equilibrium in the supernatant. The inherently insoluble complexes, moreover, create a hydrophobic phase, distinct from the supernatant and cause the remaining otherwise soluble complexes to distribute themselves between the two phases according to a partition coefficient. A mathematical apparatus to study the consequences of this hypothesis is presented, and it is demonstrated that the features of precipitin curves can be explained nearly completely this way.", "PMID": 437832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3689", "title": "Measurements of precipitin reactions by difference turbidimetry: a new method.", "content": "A new method for the measurement of precipitin and flocculation reactions between antibodies and antigens has been developed. The technique, called difference turbidimetry, involves the use of tandem cuvettes providing the opportunity of using separated and unmixed antigen and antibody as blank solutions for spectrophotometric readings in the ultraviolet wavelength range. By use of this technique genuine difference turbidity spectra have been recorded for the reaction between human serum albumin and rabbit-anti-human serum albumin IgG. It was found that difference turbidimetry at low wavelengths (e.g. 280 nm) allows the construction of precipitin curves with a very clearly expressed zoning phenomenon at a sensitivity which in terms of antigen and antibody concentrations is more than twice the sensitivity of conventional procedures. It is of special interest that the zone of equivalence differs when the same reaction between an antigen and its antibody is measured by difference turbidimetry, by absorbance of washed and redissolved precipitate, and by amount of precipitated antigen.", "contents": "Measurements of precipitin reactions by difference turbidimetry: a new method. A new method for the measurement of precipitin and flocculation reactions between antibodies and antigens has been developed. The technique, called difference turbidimetry, involves the use of tandem cuvettes providing the opportunity of using separated and unmixed antigen and antibody as blank solutions for spectrophotometric readings in the ultraviolet wavelength range. By use of this technique genuine difference turbidity spectra have been recorded for the reaction between human serum albumin and rabbit-anti-human serum albumin IgG. It was found that difference turbidimetry at low wavelengths (e.g. 280 nm) allows the construction of precipitin curves with a very clearly expressed zoning phenomenon at a sensitivity which in terms of antigen and antibody concentrations is more than twice the sensitivity of conventional procedures. It is of special interest that the zone of equivalence differs when the same reaction between an antigen and its antibody is measured by difference turbidimetry, by absorbance of washed and redissolved precipitate, and by amount of precipitated antigen.", "PMID": 437833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3690", "title": "The metabolism of nucleic acids in mice.", "content": "The metabolism of three forms of nucleic acid, native-DNA (N-DNA), single strand DNA (SS-DNA), and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I : C), was investigated in vivo in randomly bred Swiss-Webster mice. Clearance of these substances from the circulation and tissue localization were determined at selected time intervals following the intravenous injection of 125I-labelled compounds. N- and ss-DNA were removed from the circulation more rapidly than was poly I : C. All three materials localized principally in reticuloendothelial-rich organs, i.e. liver and spleen. N-DNA was degraded by the liver more slowly than was poly I : C or ss-DNA. At 4 h following injection, the liver contained 26%, 13%, and 10% of the injected doses, respectively. Three days after injection, 4.5% of the N-DNA persisted in the liver, as compared to only 0.6% of the poly I : C, and 0.2% of the ss-DNA. The possiblity that these differences in metabolism of N-DNA, poly I: C, and ss-DNA may be related to their differing immunogenic potentials in experimental systems is discussed.", "contents": "The metabolism of nucleic acids in mice. The metabolism of three forms of nucleic acid, native-DNA (N-DNA), single strand DNA (SS-DNA), and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I : C), was investigated in vivo in randomly bred Swiss-Webster mice. Clearance of these substances from the circulation and tissue localization were determined at selected time intervals following the intravenous injection of 125I-labelled compounds. N- and ss-DNA were removed from the circulation more rapidly than was poly I : C. All three materials localized principally in reticuloendothelial-rich organs, i.e. liver and spleen. N-DNA was degraded by the liver more slowly than was poly I : C or ss-DNA. At 4 h following injection, the liver contained 26%, 13%, and 10% of the injected doses, respectively. Three days after injection, 4.5% of the N-DNA persisted in the liver, as compared to only 0.6% of the poly I : C, and 0.2% of the ss-DNA. The possiblity that these differences in metabolism of N-DNA, poly I: C, and ss-DNA may be related to their differing immunogenic potentials in experimental systems is discussed.", "PMID": 437834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3691", "title": "Immunological clearance of 75Se-labelled Trypanosoma brucei in mice. I. Aspects of the radiolabelling technique.", "content": "A reliable and simple technique for the in vivo labelling of Trypanosoma brucei with [75Se]-methionine was developed. Between 97 and 99% of the radioactivity was protein bound in the trypanosomes and spontaneous elution in vitro was less than 10% over 4 h. The fate of the labelled trypanosomes after i.v. injection into normal and immune mice was studied. Whilst the vast majority of parasites remained in the circulation of normal animals they rapidly disappeared from the blood of immune animals. In the latter the liver was found to be the principal site of phagocytosis removing over 50% of the radiolabelled parasites within 15 min of injection.", "contents": "Immunological clearance of 75Se-labelled Trypanosoma brucei in mice. I. Aspects of the radiolabelling technique. A reliable and simple technique for the in vivo labelling of Trypanosoma brucei with [75Se]-methionine was developed. Between 97 and 99% of the radioactivity was protein bound in the trypanosomes and spontaneous elution in vitro was less than 10% over 4 h. The fate of the labelled trypanosomes after i.v. injection into normal and immune mice was studied. Whilst the vast majority of parasites remained in the circulation of normal animals they rapidly disappeared from the blood of immune animals. In the latter the liver was found to be the principal site of phagocytosis removing over 50% of the radiolabelled parasites within 15 min of injection.", "PMID": 437835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3692", "title": "Separation of cell-dependent antibody (CDA) and inhibitory antibody by protein-A affinity chromatography and the effect of fractions on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).", "content": "The nature of cell-dependent antibody (CDA) and the mechanism of inhibition of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) were studied in the ADCC assay system in which culture cells of methylcholanthrene-induced rat fibrosarcoma (KMT-50) were used as target cells, xenogeneic antiserum (rabbit anti-KMT-50) as the CDA, and human peripheral blood leucocytes (PBL) as effector cells, respectively. By using protein-A Sepharose CL-4B affinity column chromatography of rabbit anti-KMT-50 serum, CDA was shown to bind protein A. Complement dependent-cytotoxicity (CDC), however, was demonstrated in both the adsorbed fraction (eluate) and the non-adsorbed fraction (effluent) to protein A from the same affinity column chromatography. These data confirmed that CDA was IgG with an intact Fc portion. Inhibition of ADCC occurred by pretreatment of effector cells with rabbit anti-effector (human PBL) serum even with extremely small amounts of antiserum. Such inhibition was demonstrated with the eluate but not with the effluent from protein-A Sepharose CL-4B affinity column chromatography of rabbit anti-effector serum. F(ab')2 fragments of the same eluate (IgG) did not inhibit the ADCC activity. These data showed that the inhibition of ADCC was induced by the blocking of Fc receptors of effector cells with the Fc portions of IgG in anti-effector serum. The data obtained indicate the usefulness of protein A in separation and analysis of CDA and in investigation of the inhibitory mechanisms of ADCC.", "contents": "Separation of cell-dependent antibody (CDA) and inhibitory antibody by protein-A affinity chromatography and the effect of fractions on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). The nature of cell-dependent antibody (CDA) and the mechanism of inhibition of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) were studied in the ADCC assay system in which culture cells of methylcholanthrene-induced rat fibrosarcoma (KMT-50) were used as target cells, xenogeneic antiserum (rabbit anti-KMT-50) as the CDA, and human peripheral blood leucocytes (PBL) as effector cells, respectively. By using protein-A Sepharose CL-4B affinity column chromatography of rabbit anti-KMT-50 serum, CDA was shown to bind protein A. Complement dependent-cytotoxicity (CDC), however, was demonstrated in both the adsorbed fraction (eluate) and the non-adsorbed fraction (effluent) to protein A from the same affinity column chromatography. These data confirmed that CDA was IgG with an intact Fc portion. Inhibition of ADCC occurred by pretreatment of effector cells with rabbit anti-effector (human PBL) serum even with extremely small amounts of antiserum. Such inhibition was demonstrated with the eluate but not with the effluent from protein-A Sepharose CL-4B affinity column chromatography of rabbit anti-effector serum. F(ab')2 fragments of the same eluate (IgG) did not inhibit the ADCC activity. These data showed that the inhibition of ADCC was induced by the blocking of Fc receptors of effector cells with the Fc portions of IgG in anti-effector serum. The data obtained indicate the usefulness of protein A in separation and analysis of CDA and in investigation of the inhibitory mechanisms of ADCC.", "PMID": 437836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3693", "title": "Genetic analysis of antibody responsiveness to sheep erythrocytes in crosses between lines of mice selected for high or low antibody synthesis.", "content": "Two selective breedings of mice for minimal or maximal agglutinin response to heterologous erythrocytes were carried out (selection I and II). Preliminary reported data indicated that for both selections the heritability was between 0.18 and 0.36 and the number of relevant loci from 7--13. The results reported in this article are definitive since the data of ten to twenty generations at selection limit are available and large populations of interline hybrids F1, F2 and both backcrosses were analysed. The character 'high response' was partially dominant in F1 hybrids of both selections, the degree of this incomplete dominance was 0.27 in selection I and 0.54 in selection II. In selection I, 38% of the F2 variance was due to genetic factors (VG) and 62% to environmental effects (VE). The partition of phenotypic variance of F2 and backcrosses into additive variance (VA) and dominance variance (VD) was made according to three methods and the mean results were: VA = 0.72 and VD = 0.05. The resulting mean heritability was 0.35 and the number of relevant loci about ten. In selection II, 69% of the F2 variance was due to VG and 31% to VE. The three methods of variance calculation give somewhat discordant results. According to the more probable estimation (see discussion) VA = 0.95, the mean heritability was 0.23 and the number of loci, about 6. The results obtained in crosses between homologous lines of the two selections indicate that the two 'high' lines have probably identical homogeneous genetic constitution while the two 'low' lines contain some different 'high' effect loci.", "contents": "Genetic analysis of antibody responsiveness to sheep erythrocytes in crosses between lines of mice selected for high or low antibody synthesis. Two selective breedings of mice for minimal or maximal agglutinin response to heterologous erythrocytes were carried out (selection I and II). Preliminary reported data indicated that for both selections the heritability was between 0.18 and 0.36 and the number of relevant loci from 7--13. The results reported in this article are definitive since the data of ten to twenty generations at selection limit are available and large populations of interline hybrids F1, F2 and both backcrosses were analysed. The character 'high response' was partially dominant in F1 hybrids of both selections, the degree of this incomplete dominance was 0.27 in selection I and 0.54 in selection II. In selection I, 38% of the F2 variance was due to genetic factors (VG) and 62% to environmental effects (VE). The partition of phenotypic variance of F2 and backcrosses into additive variance (VA) and dominance variance (VD) was made according to three methods and the mean results were: VA = 0.72 and VD = 0.05. The resulting mean heritability was 0.35 and the number of relevant loci about ten. In selection II, 69% of the F2 variance was due to VG and 31% to VE. The three methods of variance calculation give somewhat discordant results. According to the more probable estimation (see discussion) VA = 0.95, the mean heritability was 0.23 and the number of loci, about 6. The results obtained in crosses between homologous lines of the two selections indicate that the two 'high' lines have probably identical homogeneous genetic constitution while the two 'low' lines contain some different 'high' effect loci.", "PMID": 437837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3694", "title": "A mechanism for secretory IgA-mediated inhibition of the cell penetration and intracellular development of Eimeria tenella.", "content": "The ability of Eimeria tenella sporozoites to develop normally in cultured chick kidney cells was used as an indicator of the anticoccidial effects of sera and extracts of caecal contents or tissue. Pre-treatment of sporozoites with normal serum globulin enhanced the frequency of intracellular development but pre-treatment in balanced salt solution, without protein, damaged sporozoites so that most had lost the ability to differentiate, even when they were able to invade host cells. The same inhibitory effect was seen when sporozoites were incubated in extracts of caecal contents from non-immunized chickens, although parasitic development was unaffected when sporozoites were pretreated in similar extracts of mucosae. Extracts of immune caecal contents impaired both cell penetration and subsequent development. These results show that sporozoites can lose the ability to differentiate before the ability to penetrate cells and provide evidence of a possible synergism between non-specific factors and secretory antibodies in anticoccidial immunity.", "contents": "A mechanism for secretory IgA-mediated inhibition of the cell penetration and intracellular development of Eimeria tenella. The ability of Eimeria tenella sporozoites to develop normally in cultured chick kidney cells was used as an indicator of the anticoccidial effects of sera and extracts of caecal contents or tissue. Pre-treatment of sporozoites with normal serum globulin enhanced the frequency of intracellular development but pre-treatment in balanced salt solution, without protein, damaged sporozoites so that most had lost the ability to differentiate, even when they were able to invade host cells. The same inhibitory effect was seen when sporozoites were incubated in extracts of caecal contents from non-immunized chickens, although parasitic development was unaffected when sporozoites were pretreated in similar extracts of mucosae. Extracts of immune caecal contents impaired both cell penetration and subsequent development. These results show that sporozoites can lose the ability to differentiate before the ability to penetrate cells and provide evidence of a possible synergism between non-specific factors and secretory antibodies in anticoccidial immunity.", "PMID": 437838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3695", "title": "Studies of macrophage function during Trichinella spiralis infection in mice.", "content": "Studies were made to investigate the quantitative and functional changes which occur in peritoneal macrophage populations obtained from mice infected orally with Trichinella spiralis larvae. C57BL/6 mice infected with T. spiralis larvae became parasitized with adult worms which were rejected from the intestine from 14 to 20 days after infection. Infected mice developed a striking increase in peritoneal exudate cells, composed largely of macrophages, which was maximal at from 16 to 18 days after infection. T. spiralis larvae and eosinophils were not seen in the peritoneal exudates. Macrophages from mice infected more than 11 days earlier inhibited DNA synthesis of syngeneic and allogeneic tumour cells, a property atributed to activated macrophages. In addition, macrophages from T. spiralis-infected mice had the functional ability to kill EL-4 tumour cells as measured by 51Cr release. Unlike activated macrophages, however, macrophages from infected mice did not develop the ability to inhibit multiplication of the intracellular pathogen Toxoplasma gondii. These studies demonstrate that T. spiralis infection in mice induces changes in macrophage function that differ from changes associated with infections by intracellular pathogens.", "contents": "Studies of macrophage function during Trichinella spiralis infection in mice. Studies were made to investigate the quantitative and functional changes which occur in peritoneal macrophage populations obtained from mice infected orally with Trichinella spiralis larvae. C57BL/6 mice infected with T. spiralis larvae became parasitized with adult worms which were rejected from the intestine from 14 to 20 days after infection. Infected mice developed a striking increase in peritoneal exudate cells, composed largely of macrophages, which was maximal at from 16 to 18 days after infection. T. spiralis larvae and eosinophils were not seen in the peritoneal exudates. Macrophages from mice infected more than 11 days earlier inhibited DNA synthesis of syngeneic and allogeneic tumour cells, a property atributed to activated macrophages. In addition, macrophages from T. spiralis-infected mice had the functional ability to kill EL-4 tumour cells as measured by 51Cr release. Unlike activated macrophages, however, macrophages from infected mice did not develop the ability to inhibit multiplication of the intracellular pathogen Toxoplasma gondii. These studies demonstrate that T. spiralis infection in mice induces changes in macrophage function that differ from changes associated with infections by intracellular pathogens.", "PMID": 437839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3696", "title": "The binding of rabbit IgG and its enzymatically derived fragments to homologous peritoneal macrophages.", "content": "Rabbit IgG and its Fab, Fc and pFc' fragments, prepared by papain or peptic digestion, were assayed for binding to homologous peritoneal macrophages. The binding affinity of IgG for the peritoneal macrophages (Ka = 5.9 +/- 1.6 x 10(5) L/M) was comparable to that recorded with alveolar macrophages (7.6 +/- 1.8 x 10(5) L/M, Arend & Mannik, 1973) but the number of receptor sites per peritoneal cell (4.6 +/- 2.1 x10(6)) was about four-fold greater than on the latter. Of the fragments, only Fc bound to macrophages with an affinity comparable to intact IgG; pFc' bound weakly and Fab was totally inactive. These data, taken with a recent study involving rabbit IgG and guinea-pig macrophages (Ovary, Saluk, Quijada & Lamm, 1976), indicate that the primary IgG binding site for macrophages is located in the C gamma 2 domain.", "contents": "The binding of rabbit IgG and its enzymatically derived fragments to homologous peritoneal macrophages. Rabbit IgG and its Fab, Fc and pFc' fragments, prepared by papain or peptic digestion, were assayed for binding to homologous peritoneal macrophages. The binding affinity of IgG for the peritoneal macrophages (Ka = 5.9 +/- 1.6 x 10(5) L/M) was comparable to that recorded with alveolar macrophages (7.6 +/- 1.8 x 10(5) L/M, Arend & Mannik, 1973) but the number of receptor sites per peritoneal cell (4.6 +/- 2.1 x10(6)) was about four-fold greater than on the latter. Of the fragments, only Fc bound to macrophages with an affinity comparable to intact IgG; pFc' bound weakly and Fab was totally inactive. These data, taken with a recent study involving rabbit IgG and guinea-pig macrophages (Ovary, Saluk, Quijada & Lamm, 1976), indicate that the primary IgG binding site for macrophages is located in the C gamma 2 domain.", "PMID": 437840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3697", "title": "Non-specific recognition in phagocytosis: ingestion of aldehyde-treated erythrocytes by rat peritoneal macrophages.", "content": "Particles were chemically modified with aldehydes and incubated with rat peritoneal cells for phagocytosis. All dialdehydes and lower monaldehydes tested (methanal, ethanal and propanal) made sheep erythrocytes phagocytosable. Failure of higher monaldehydes to induce phagocytosis of treated erythrocytes was not due to lack of reactivity with red cell membranes. All erythrocytes tested (bird and mammal red cells were used) and rat thymocytes were phagocytosed by rat macrophages after incubation with aldehyde. Treatment of Candida albicans did not induce phagocytosis: this failure was not due to lack of aldehyde binding (as demonstrated with [14C]-methanal) nor to anti-phagocytic properties of the parasite membrane. Sheep erythrocytes were submitted to enzymatic treatment (pronase, trypsin, neuraminidase) or incubated with succinic anhydride (to block free NH2 groups) or iodacetamide (to block free SH groups) before aldehyde treatment: phagocytosis was not decreased, which suggested that aldehydes did not act by altering some definite surface structure of the treated particles. Treatment of erythrocytes with cross-linking compounds such as tetraazotized o-dianisidine (coupling occurs mainly on tyrosine and histidine residues) or l-ethyl(3-dimethyl aminopropyl) carbodiimide (a bivalent reagent binding free COOH groups) did not induce any substantial phagocytosis of erythrocytes. Phagocytosis of aldehyde treated erythrocytes was partly correlated with hydrophobicity of these cells, as measured with a two-phase partition system. It is concluded that aldehyde-mediated phagocytosis of erythrocytes is mainly due to cross-linking of red cell membrane structures, probably involving free OH groups, which must increase local rigidity and thereby modify hydrophobicity of the red cell surface.", "contents": "Non-specific recognition in phagocytosis: ingestion of aldehyde-treated erythrocytes by rat peritoneal macrophages. Particles were chemically modified with aldehydes and incubated with rat peritoneal cells for phagocytosis. All dialdehydes and lower monaldehydes tested (methanal, ethanal and propanal) made sheep erythrocytes phagocytosable. Failure of higher monaldehydes to induce phagocytosis of treated erythrocytes was not due to lack of reactivity with red cell membranes. All erythrocytes tested (bird and mammal red cells were used) and rat thymocytes were phagocytosed by rat macrophages after incubation with aldehyde. Treatment of Candida albicans did not induce phagocytosis: this failure was not due to lack of aldehyde binding (as demonstrated with [14C]-methanal) nor to anti-phagocytic properties of the parasite membrane. Sheep erythrocytes were submitted to enzymatic treatment (pronase, trypsin, neuraminidase) or incubated with succinic anhydride (to block free NH2 groups) or iodacetamide (to block free SH groups) before aldehyde treatment: phagocytosis was not decreased, which suggested that aldehydes did not act by altering some definite surface structure of the treated particles. Treatment of erythrocytes with cross-linking compounds such as tetraazotized o-dianisidine (coupling occurs mainly on tyrosine and histidine residues) or l-ethyl(3-dimethyl aminopropyl) carbodiimide (a bivalent reagent binding free COOH groups) did not induce any substantial phagocytosis of erythrocytes. Phagocytosis of aldehyde treated erythrocytes was partly correlated with hydrophobicity of these cells, as measured with a two-phase partition system. It is concluded that aldehyde-mediated phagocytosis of erythrocytes is mainly due to cross-linking of red cell membrane structures, probably involving free OH groups, which must increase local rigidity and thereby modify hydrophobicity of the red cell surface.", "PMID": 437841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3698", "title": "The localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells in relation to antibody-mediated immunosuppression.", "content": "Carbon blockade of mice did not affect cytotoxic antibody production after immunization with allogeneic cells, nor did it affect the immunosuppressive activity of alloantibody. Though it inhibited the alloantibody-mediated increase in hepatic localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells it had no effect on the normal hepatic localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells. Alloantibody administered before allogeneic cells or 6 h after was equally immunosuppressive, but anti-lymphocyte antibody only had potent immunosuppressive activity when given just before the antigenic cells. These results suggest than an afferent mechanism of suppression of the humoral antibody response can be exerted by anti-lymphocyte serum and that alloantibody may also act by this method when given before the antigen. As alloantibody is also highly potent when given after the antigen when an afferent mechanism is unlikely to occur, studies on the specificity of immunosuppression, particularly the likely requirement for antibody to I region determinants, would best be conducted by giving the antibody after the antigen, thereby avoiding any possible afferent inhibitory activity.", "contents": "The localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells in relation to antibody-mediated immunosuppression. Carbon blockade of mice did not affect cytotoxic antibody production after immunization with allogeneic cells, nor did it affect the immunosuppressive activity of alloantibody. Though it inhibited the alloantibody-mediated increase in hepatic localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells it had no effect on the normal hepatic localization of allogeneic lymphoid cells. Alloantibody administered before allogeneic cells or 6 h after was equally immunosuppressive, but anti-lymphocyte antibody only had potent immunosuppressive activity when given just before the antigenic cells. These results suggest than an afferent mechanism of suppression of the humoral antibody response can be exerted by anti-lymphocyte serum and that alloantibody may also act by this method when given before the antigen. As alloantibody is also highly potent when given after the antigen when an afferent mechanism is unlikely to occur, studies on the specificity of immunosuppression, particularly the likely requirement for antibody to I region determinants, would best be conducted by giving the antibody after the antigen, thereby avoiding any possible afferent inhibitory activity.", "PMID": 437842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3699", "title": "Metabolic studies on the uptake of [14C]-histidine and [14C]-histamine and histamine synthesis by guinea-pig basophils, in vitro.", "content": "The uptake of [14C]-histidine and [14C]-histamine and the conversion of [14C]-histidine to [14C]-histamine was measured in suspensions of guinea-pig bone marrow cells rich in basophils. When comparable amounts of labelled histidine or histamine were added to equal numbers of basophils, the uptake of histidine was approximately forty-five times greater than that of histamine. Purified eosinophils, neutrophils and mononuclear cells incorporated only a small proportion of [14C]-histidine when compared to the basophil; [14C]-histamine uptake by all these cell types was virtually negligible. Histidine uptake and the amount of histamine formed de novo was directly related to the number of basophils, the time of incubation and the substrate concentration. Histidine uptake was decreased by agents which inhibit glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, Na + - K + -dependent ATPase, protein synthesis and RNA synthesis. Inhibition was demonstrable in a dose-dependent fashion and at concentrations which had no apparent effect on cell viability. Inhibitors of DNA synthesis, and of microtubule function, had no influence on histidine uptake. Cytochalasin B, an inhibitor of microfilament function, also decreased histidine uptake but only at concentrations previously showen to affect hexose transport. None of the agents tested affected the uptake of [14C]-histamine or the amounts of new histamine formed from the histidine that had been incorporated. These studies suggest that histidine is preferentially incorporated into the basophil; that the uptake depends on the integrity of a number of metabolic pathways, but that once the histidine is taken up these requirements do not apply to the formation of new histamine. In contrast, histamine appeared to diffuse passively, and in relatively small amounts, into all the cell types tested.", "contents": "Metabolic studies on the uptake of [14C]-histidine and [14C]-histamine and histamine synthesis by guinea-pig basophils, in vitro. The uptake of [14C]-histidine and [14C]-histamine and the conversion of [14C]-histidine to [14C]-histamine was measured in suspensions of guinea-pig bone marrow cells rich in basophils. When comparable amounts of labelled histidine or histamine were added to equal numbers of basophils, the uptake of histidine was approximately forty-five times greater than that of histamine. Purified eosinophils, neutrophils and mononuclear cells incorporated only a small proportion of [14C]-histidine when compared to the basophil; [14C]-histamine uptake by all these cell types was virtually negligible. Histidine uptake and the amount of histamine formed de novo was directly related to the number of basophils, the time of incubation and the substrate concentration. Histidine uptake was decreased by agents which inhibit glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, Na + - K + -dependent ATPase, protein synthesis and RNA synthesis. Inhibition was demonstrable in a dose-dependent fashion and at concentrations which had no apparent effect on cell viability. Inhibitors of DNA synthesis, and of microtubule function, had no influence on histidine uptake. Cytochalasin B, an inhibitor of microfilament function, also decreased histidine uptake but only at concentrations previously showen to affect hexose transport. None of the agents tested affected the uptake of [14C]-histamine or the amounts of new histamine formed from the histidine that had been incorporated. These studies suggest that histidine is preferentially incorporated into the basophil; that the uptake depends on the integrity of a number of metabolic pathways, but that once the histidine is taken up these requirements do not apply to the formation of new histamine. In contrast, histamine appeared to diffuse passively, and in relatively small amounts, into all the cell types tested.", "PMID": 437843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3700", "title": "Induction of an Fc conformational change by binding of antigen: the generation of protein A-reactive sites in chicken immunoglobulin.", "content": "Chicken antibody alone does not bind to Staphylococcus aureus or protein A-Sepharose. Immune complexes containing chicken antibodies do bind, however, showing protein A-binding sites exist on the molecules. Binding does not occur via the antigen contained in the complex. Complexes formed in far antigen excess also bind, suggesting that an induced conformational change in the Fc region of the immunoglobulin occurs but only a fraction of the total chicken antibody is reactive.", "contents": "Induction of an Fc conformational change by binding of antigen: the generation of protein A-reactive sites in chicken immunoglobulin. Chicken antibody alone does not bind to Staphylococcus aureus or protein A-Sepharose. Immune complexes containing chicken antibodies do bind, however, showing protein A-binding sites exist on the molecules. Binding does not occur via the antigen contained in the complex. Complexes formed in far antigen excess also bind, suggesting that an induced conformational change in the Fc region of the immunoglobulin occurs but only a fraction of the total chicken antibody is reactive.", "PMID": 437844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3701", "title": "Synthetic peptide chemotactic factors for neutrophils: the range of active peptides, their efficacy and inhibitory activity, and susceptibility of the cellular response to enzymes and bacterial toxins.", "content": "The chemotactic activity for neutrophil leucocytes of twenty-six peptides of varied sequence, of which the majority were N-formylated, was assessed by determining the concentration at which each was maximally active and the efficacy of each peptide at that concentration. These two measures of activity did not correlate with one another. Many formylated peptides with a wide variety of sequences were active. Of these, the formyl-methionyl peptides had highest efficacy, but many other peptides were active at concentrations as low as the formyl-methionyl tripeptides. Unrelated peptides, viz formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, acetyl-tri-alanine, formyl-tri--phenyla-lanine, cross-inhibit the cells' response to one another, and this inhibition is reversible. Inhibition is prevented if the cells are incubated throughout the experiment in levamisole or A23187. These experiments suggest that the leucocyte peptide receptor is capable of binding many ligands, and that activation of a response is not solely a function of binding affinity. They exclude a strict steric specificity for binding. Chemotactic responses to formylated peptides were shown to be reduced in cells pretreated with perfringolysin, a bacterial cholesterol-binding toxin, and with phospholipase C. Trypsin and pronase also reduced these responses when used at 500 micrograms per 10(6) cells but not at lower doses.", "contents": "Synthetic peptide chemotactic factors for neutrophils: the range of active peptides, their efficacy and inhibitory activity, and susceptibility of the cellular response to enzymes and bacterial toxins. The chemotactic activity for neutrophil leucocytes of twenty-six peptides of varied sequence, of which the majority were N-formylated, was assessed by determining the concentration at which each was maximally active and the efficacy of each peptide at that concentration. These two measures of activity did not correlate with one another. Many formylated peptides with a wide variety of sequences were active. Of these, the formyl-methionyl peptides had highest efficacy, but many other peptides were active at concentrations as low as the formyl-methionyl tripeptides. Unrelated peptides, viz formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, acetyl-tri-alanine, formyl-tri--phenyla-lanine, cross-inhibit the cells' response to one another, and this inhibition is reversible. Inhibition is prevented if the cells are incubated throughout the experiment in levamisole or A23187. These experiments suggest that the leucocyte peptide receptor is capable of binding many ligands, and that activation of a response is not solely a function of binding affinity. They exclude a strict steric specificity for binding. Chemotactic responses to formylated peptides were shown to be reduced in cells pretreated with perfringolysin, a bacterial cholesterol-binding toxin, and with phospholipase C. Trypsin and pronase also reduced these responses when used at 500 micrograms per 10(6) cells but not at lower doses.", "PMID": 437845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3702", "title": "Functional heterogeneity of macrophages.", "content": "The antibody-binding activities of rabbit peritoneal macrophages separated on discontinuous gradients of Ficoll were investigated. The antibody was rabbit anti-ovalbumin IgG labelled with 125I. Of the five fractions obtained, one macrophage fraction was found to bind substantially more antibody than the others. These macrophages possessed more Fc receptor sites than the others and the number of Fc receptors (n) and the association constant (K) of these cells was calculated. By electron microscopy, the phagocytic activity of the subpopulation with most Fc receptors was less than that of the others.", "contents": "Functional heterogeneity of macrophages. The antibody-binding activities of rabbit peritoneal macrophages separated on discontinuous gradients of Ficoll were investigated. The antibody was rabbit anti-ovalbumin IgG labelled with 125I. Of the five fractions obtained, one macrophage fraction was found to bind substantially more antibody than the others. These macrophages possessed more Fc receptor sites than the others and the number of Fc receptors (n) and the association constant (K) of these cells was calculated. By electron microscopy, the phagocytic activity of the subpopulation with most Fc receptors was less than that of the others.", "PMID": 437846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3703", "title": "Generation and secretion of eosinophilotactic activity from human polymorphonuclear neutrophils by various mechanisms of cell activation.", "content": "An eosinophil chemotactic factor(s) (ECF) can be generated from human polymorphonuclear neutrophils by the calcium ionophore, phagocytosis, arachidonic acid and hypotonic lysis. In kinetic studies it is observed that peak ECF activity is released prior to the maximum of lysosomal enzyme release with the calcium ionophore, phagocytosis and arachidonic acid, while under conditions of hypotonic exposure ECF activity appears after the maximum of enzyme release. The ECF obtained by hypotonic exposure shows a fluctuating pattern with sharp peaks and steep fall-offs in activity. The ECF-release for each stimulus is temperature dependent; extracellular calcium is required when the ionophore or phagocytosis are used as stimuli, while with arachidonic acid and hypotonic exposure no extracellular calcium is necessary for ECF-release. On Sephadex G-25 each preparation of ECF eluted in the low molecular weight range at approximately 500 daltons. Eosinophils can be deactivated and cross-deactivated with the various ECF-preparations indicating either a molecular identity or a common mode of action on eosinophils.", "contents": "Generation and secretion of eosinophilotactic activity from human polymorphonuclear neutrophils by various mechanisms of cell activation. An eosinophil chemotactic factor(s) (ECF) can be generated from human polymorphonuclear neutrophils by the calcium ionophore, phagocytosis, arachidonic acid and hypotonic lysis. In kinetic studies it is observed that peak ECF activity is released prior to the maximum of lysosomal enzyme release with the calcium ionophore, phagocytosis and arachidonic acid, while under conditions of hypotonic exposure ECF activity appears after the maximum of enzyme release. The ECF obtained by hypotonic exposure shows a fluctuating pattern with sharp peaks and steep fall-offs in activity. The ECF-release for each stimulus is temperature dependent; extracellular calcium is required when the ionophore or phagocytosis are used as stimuli, while with arachidonic acid and hypotonic exposure no extracellular calcium is necessary for ECF-release. On Sephadex G-25 each preparation of ECF eluted in the low molecular weight range at approximately 500 daltons. Eosinophils can be deactivated and cross-deactivated with the various ECF-preparations indicating either a molecular identity or a common mode of action on eosinophils.", "PMID": 437847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3704", "title": "Arteriovenous shunting in the lymph node before and after antigenic stimulus.", "content": "We have assessed the effects of antigenic stimulation on the regional blood flow of the lymph node. In seventeen New Zealand white rabbits, the regional blood flow to the popliteal lymph nodes was determined using 9 and 15 micron microspheres at 16, 40, and 144 h following antigen administration. The regional blood flow in the resting lymph node measured with 15 micron spheres was 0 . 46 +/- 0 . 07 ml g-1 min-1, with 9 micron spheres 0 . 26 +/- 0 . 03 ml g-1 min-1. There was a significant 'differential flow' (the difference in blood flow between the experimental and control nodes) measured with 15 micron spheres (P less than 0 . 05). This increase in blood flow was larger early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration (P less than 0 . 01). There was significant (P less than 0 . 05) 'shunt flow' (the difference in blood flow measured with 15 micron and 9 micron spheres) in the lymph node, with more shunting early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration. No significant shunting was seen in the kidney or thigh muscle. Thus, we have established: (1) a significant increase in blood flow following antigenic stimulus; (2) shunting of 9 micron microspheres in the resting popliteal lymph node; (3) increased shunting following antigenic stimulus; and (4) that the increase in nodal blood flow was, to a large extent, secondary to increased shunt flow. Both the increased blood flow and the shunting shortly after antigenic stimulus may be important in the evolution of the immune response.", "contents": "Arteriovenous shunting in the lymph node before and after antigenic stimulus. We have assessed the effects of antigenic stimulation on the regional blood flow of the lymph node. In seventeen New Zealand white rabbits, the regional blood flow to the popliteal lymph nodes was determined using 9 and 15 micron microspheres at 16, 40, and 144 h following antigen administration. The regional blood flow in the resting lymph node measured with 15 micron spheres was 0 . 46 +/- 0 . 07 ml g-1 min-1, with 9 micron spheres 0 . 26 +/- 0 . 03 ml g-1 min-1. There was a significant 'differential flow' (the difference in blood flow between the experimental and control nodes) measured with 15 micron spheres (P less than 0 . 05). This increase in blood flow was larger early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration (P less than 0 . 01). There was significant (P less than 0 . 05) 'shunt flow' (the difference in blood flow measured with 15 micron and 9 micron spheres) in the lymph node, with more shunting early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration. No significant shunting was seen in the kidney or thigh muscle. Thus, we have established: (1) a significant increase in blood flow following antigenic stimulus; (2) shunting of 9 micron microspheres in the resting popliteal lymph node; (3) increased shunting following antigenic stimulus; and (4) that the increase in nodal blood flow was, to a large extent, secondary to increased shunt flow. Both the increased blood flow and the shunting shortly after antigenic stimulus may be important in the evolution of the immune response.", "PMID": 437848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3705", "title": "Electron microscopy of Fc receptors on human lymphocytes.", "content": "The membrane receptor for Fc portions of IgG (FcR) was localized on the cell surface of humans lymphocytes by electron microscopy. The electron microscopic markers for FcR were soluble ferritin 7S anti-ferritin immune complexes prepared in forty times antigen excess than needed at equivalence. Fc receptors on the lymphocytes labelled at 0 degree in the presence of sodium azide were seen as discontinuous patches on the cell surface. In control experiments, no labelling was observed, which included lymphocytes treated with ferritin only or with F(ab')2 immune complexes as well as glutaraldehyde-fixed lymphocytes treated with 7S anti-ferritin immune complexes. The findings are discussed with relation to the widely accepted membrane fluidity model.", "contents": "Electron microscopy of Fc receptors on human lymphocytes. The membrane receptor for Fc portions of IgG (FcR) was localized on the cell surface of humans lymphocytes by electron microscopy. The electron microscopic markers for FcR were soluble ferritin 7S anti-ferritin immune complexes prepared in forty times antigen excess than needed at equivalence. Fc receptors on the lymphocytes labelled at 0 degree in the presence of sodium azide were seen as discontinuous patches on the cell surface. In control experiments, no labelling was observed, which included lymphocytes treated with ferritin only or with F(ab')2 immune complexes as well as glutaraldehyde-fixed lymphocytes treated with 7S anti-ferritin immune complexes. The findings are discussed with relation to the widely accepted membrane fluidity model.", "PMID": 437849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3706", "title": "Proline-rich polypeptide from ovine colostrum: its effect on skin permeability and on the immune response.", "content": "The effect of a proline-rich polypeptide from ovine colostrum on the humoral immune response in mice against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was studied. It was shown that the polypeptide had a regulatory activity stimulating or suppressing the immune response. The proline-rich polypeptide also increased the permeability of skin vessels in guinea-pigs. Studies on the mechanism of the effect of the proline-rich polypeptide suggest that prostaglandins are involved in the activity of the polypeptide.", "contents": "Proline-rich polypeptide from ovine colostrum: its effect on skin permeability and on the immune response. The effect of a proline-rich polypeptide from ovine colostrum on the humoral immune response in mice against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was studied. It was shown that the polypeptide had a regulatory activity stimulating or suppressing the immune response. The proline-rich polypeptide also increased the permeability of skin vessels in guinea-pigs. Studies on the mechanism of the effect of the proline-rich polypeptide suggest that prostaglandins are involved in the activity of the polypeptide.", "PMID": 437850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3707", "title": "Cellular recognition of foreign-ness in two insect species, the American cockroach and the desert locust.", "content": "Encapsulation of tissue implants by haemocytes was used as the assay for immune recognition in the insects studied. If haemocytes attach to and encapsulate an object implanted within the haemocoele, it may be assumed the implant is recognized as 'not-self'; lack of encapsulation of tissue implants may be assumed to indicate lack of recognition. The American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, and the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria, were used both as donors of tissue, and as recipients of tissue implants from various insect species. Allografts were not recognized as foreign and encapsulated by haemocytes of either S. gregaria or P. americana, a phenomenon which has been reported frequently for other insect species. Haemocytes of S. gregaria recognized and encapsulated a smaller range of xenografts compared with haemocytes of P. americana, and it appears that the acuity of immune recognition by haemocytes differs between S. gregaria and the other species tested. Reasons for the different recognition responses of P. americana and S. gregaria are suggested and discussed with particular reference to the results for Nauphoeta cinerea tissue in P. americana, and Gryllus domesticus tissue in S. gregaria, where at least half the number of implants are totally but weakly encapsulated, and it is suggested that haemocytes do not react to 'difference' unless it surpasses a certain threshold.", "contents": "Cellular recognition of foreign-ness in two insect species, the American cockroach and the desert locust. Encapsulation of tissue implants by haemocytes was used as the assay for immune recognition in the insects studied. If haemocytes attach to and encapsulate an object implanted within the haemocoele, it may be assumed the implant is recognized as 'not-self'; lack of encapsulation of tissue implants may be assumed to indicate lack of recognition. The American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, and the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria, were used both as donors of tissue, and as recipients of tissue implants from various insect species. Allografts were not recognized as foreign and encapsulated by haemocytes of either S. gregaria or P. americana, a phenomenon which has been reported frequently for other insect species. Haemocytes of S. gregaria recognized and encapsulated a smaller range of xenografts compared with haemocytes of P. americana, and it appears that the acuity of immune recognition by haemocytes differs between S. gregaria and the other species tested. Reasons for the different recognition responses of P. americana and S. gregaria are suggested and discussed with particular reference to the results for Nauphoeta cinerea tissue in P. americana, and Gryllus domesticus tissue in S. gregaria, where at least half the number of implants are totally but weakly encapsulated, and it is suggested that haemocytes do not react to 'difference' unless it surpasses a certain threshold.", "PMID": 437851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3708", "title": "Alterations of some chemical constituents in blood and liver of jowar fed chicks.", "content": "The affect of feeding jowar (Sorghum vulgare) was investigated in day old chicks for the periods of 10 and 30 days. Similar chicks serving as controls were fed on Hindlever Poultry feed. The jowar fed chicks showed marked reduction in growth, poor development of comb and feathers, and symptoms of nicotinic acid deficiency. Biochemical investigations showed that plasma alpha-amino nitrogen was significantly reduced in jowar fed groups, indicating the deficiency of utilisable proteins in these chicks. The blood sugar levels in chicks fed on jowar for 10 and 30 days were significantly higher as compared to the respective controls. Liver glycogen in 10 days jowar fed chicks was significantly greater than in the control group. These observations have been explained to be due to reduced utilization of glucose through glycolysis.", "contents": "Alterations of some chemical constituents in blood and liver of jowar fed chicks. The affect of feeding jowar (Sorghum vulgare) was investigated in day old chicks for the periods of 10 and 30 days. Similar chicks serving as controls were fed on Hindlever Poultry feed. The jowar fed chicks showed marked reduction in growth, poor development of comb and feathers, and symptoms of nicotinic acid deficiency. Biochemical investigations showed that plasma alpha-amino nitrogen was significantly reduced in jowar fed groups, indicating the deficiency of utilisable proteins in these chicks. The blood sugar levels in chicks fed on jowar for 10 and 30 days were significantly higher as compared to the respective controls. Liver glycogen in 10 days jowar fed chicks was significantly greater than in the control group. These observations have been explained to be due to reduced utilization of glucose through glycolysis.", "PMID": 437868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3709", "title": "Lognormal distribution in physical work capacity in young healthy males.", "content": "This paper evaluates the statistical distribution of physical work capacity (Vo2 max) in young healthy males. For this purpose, the normally of Vo2 max data, collected on two random samples consisting of 123 and 120 young healthy male volunteers was tested. It is concluded that physical work capacity follows lognormal distribution and the quality of fit has been found to be good as tested by chi2 test.", "contents": "Lognormal distribution in physical work capacity in young healthy males. This paper evaluates the statistical distribution of physical work capacity (Vo2 max) in young healthy males. For this purpose, the normally of Vo2 max data, collected on two random samples consisting of 123 and 120 young healthy male volunteers was tested. It is concluded that physical work capacity follows lognormal distribution and the quality of fit has been found to be good as tested by chi2 test.", "PMID": 437869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3710", "title": "The hypolipidemic effect of onion (Allium cepa Linn) in sucrose fed rabbits.", "content": "Long term administration of sucrose significantly increased triglyceride levels in normal rabbits. Effects of an aqueous extract of onion on the sucrose fed rabbits have been investigated. Administration of onion extract significantly reduced serum, liver and aorta triglycerides and serum and liver proteins. On the other hand liver free amino acids have been significantly increased in the onion treated group as compared to the sucrose fed control. The effects of onion have been ascribed to its sulfur containing principles which oxidize thiol compounds either present free or combined in a protein and NADPH which are necessary for lipid synthesis.", "contents": "The hypolipidemic effect of onion (Allium cepa Linn) in sucrose fed rabbits. Long term administration of sucrose significantly increased triglyceride levels in normal rabbits. Effects of an aqueous extract of onion on the sucrose fed rabbits have been investigated. Administration of onion extract significantly reduced serum, liver and aorta triglycerides and serum and liver proteins. On the other hand liver free amino acids have been significantly increased in the onion treated group as compared to the sucrose fed control. The effects of onion have been ascribed to its sulfur containing principles which oxidize thiol compounds either present free or combined in a protein and NADPH which are necessary for lipid synthesis.", "PMID": 437870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3711", "title": "Neuropharmacological actions of labetalol.", "content": "Labetalol, an alpha- and beta- adrenoceptor antagonist was investigated for its central nervous system effects in rats and mice. A marked reduction in the spontaneous motor activity with no concomittant muscle weakness was produced. The drug caused closure of eyelids in rats. Labetalol caused hypothermia and prolonged the pentobarbitone-induced hyposis. In animals trained for conditioned avoidance response the drug blocked the SCR in all the animals and CAR in a few number of animals. The drug did not protect the animals against electroshock convulsions. From the results it appears that labetalol is a central nervous system depressant.", "contents": "Neuropharmacological actions of labetalol. Labetalol, an alpha- and beta- adrenoceptor antagonist was investigated for its central nervous system effects in rats and mice. A marked reduction in the spontaneous motor activity with no concomittant muscle weakness was produced. The drug caused closure of eyelids in rats. Labetalol caused hypothermia and prolonged the pentobarbitone-induced hyposis. In animals trained for conditioned avoidance response the drug blocked the SCR in all the animals and CAR in a few number of animals. The drug did not protect the animals against electroshock convulsions. From the results it appears that labetalol is a central nervous system depressant.", "PMID": 437873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3712", "title": "Vagus stimulation effects during various doses of fluid infusion in dogs.", "content": "Stimulation of caudal and cranial ends of vagi in vagotomised chloralose-urethane anaesthetised dogs with 7.5V, 30Cps pulses of 2 msec width after 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 ml/kg body weight infusion dose of Ringer-Locke solution caused well known effects on heart rate, BP, amplitude of peripheral blood pressure waves, amplitude and frequency of respiration and amplitude of ECG waves. The vagal stimulation effects did not appear to be related to volume of fluid infused into circulation except that caudal end stimulation effect on QRS amplitude was prominent during higher infusion doses while its effect on amplitude of peripheral blood pressure waves and respiration was prominent during lower infusion doses.", "contents": "Vagus stimulation effects during various doses of fluid infusion in dogs. Stimulation of caudal and cranial ends of vagi in vagotomised chloralose-urethane anaesthetised dogs with 7.5V, 30Cps pulses of 2 msec width after 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 ml/kg body weight infusion dose of Ringer-Locke solution caused well known effects on heart rate, BP, amplitude of peripheral blood pressure waves, amplitude and frequency of respiration and amplitude of ECG waves. The vagal stimulation effects did not appear to be related to volume of fluid infused into circulation except that caudal end stimulation effect on QRS amplitude was prominent during higher infusion doses while its effect on amplitude of peripheral blood pressure waves and respiration was prominent during lower infusion doses.", "PMID": 437871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3713", "title": "Towards substantiation of intact nephron hypothesis.", "content": "A prolonged study on sheep and goats; whose 83% of total renal mass was removed, revealed that even an extremely heterogenous kidney not only performed the regular function but remained responsive for the demands of the body.", "contents": "Towards substantiation of intact nephron hypothesis. A prolonged study on sheep and goats; whose 83% of total renal mass was removed, revealed that even an extremely heterogenous kidney not only performed the regular function but remained responsive for the demands of the body.", "PMID": 437875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3714", "title": "Electrolyte changes in plasma and urine during tender coconut water infusion in dogs.", "content": "Intravenous infusion of tender coconut water to paraldehyde and chloralose-urethane anaesthetised dogs at a rate of 0.5 ml/kg/min to a total dose of 100 ml/kg body weight decreased serum Na and increased K and Ca levels. Simultaneously, urinary Na excretion decreased and K and Ca excretion increased and there was glycosuria. Serum electrolyte changes were more prominent in paraldehyde anaesthetised dogs.", "contents": "Electrolyte changes in plasma and urine during tender coconut water infusion in dogs. Intravenous infusion of tender coconut water to paraldehyde and chloralose-urethane anaesthetised dogs at a rate of 0.5 ml/kg/min to a total dose of 100 ml/kg body weight decreased serum Na and increased K and Ca levels. Simultaneously, urinary Na excretion decreased and K and Ca excretion increased and there was glycosuria. Serum electrolyte changes were more prominent in paraldehyde anaesthetised dogs.", "PMID": 437874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3715", "title": "Histologic explaination for reduced fetal urine production and for reduced amount of amniotic fluid in complicated pregnancy.", "content": "Reduction in the production of fetal urine and amniotic fluid has been recognised to have resulted from increased tubular mass in the kidneys of sub-acutely or chronically stressed fetuses and from reduced arteriolar luman size in kidney of acutely stressed fetuses.", "contents": "Histologic explaination for reduced fetal urine production and for reduced amount of amniotic fluid in complicated pregnancy. Reduction in the production of fetal urine and amniotic fluid has been recognised to have resulted from increased tubular mass in the kidneys of sub-acutely or chronically stressed fetuses and from reduced arteriolar luman size in kidney of acutely stressed fetuses.", "PMID": 437872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3716", "title": "Lung function tests in Rajasthani subjects.", "content": "Various lung volumes and ventilatory tests (TV, ERV, IC, MV, MVV, VC, FEV1, MMFER and PEFR) were determined and BR, DI and AVI (Air velocity Index) calculated in 241 Rajasthani subjects of either sex ranging from 17 to 40 years of age. Most of the values (Mean +/- SEM) are higher in males than in females, and also higher in the younger age groups (17 to 27 years) than in the older age groups (28 to 40 years) for the same sex.", "contents": "Lung function tests in Rajasthani subjects. Various lung volumes and ventilatory tests (TV, ERV, IC, MV, MVV, VC, FEV1, MMFER and PEFR) were determined and BR, DI and AVI (Air velocity Index) calculated in 241 Rajasthani subjects of either sex ranging from 17 to 40 years of age. Most of the values (Mean +/- SEM) are higher in males than in females, and also higher in the younger age groups (17 to 27 years) than in the older age groups (28 to 40 years) for the same sex.", "PMID": 437876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3717", "title": "Outcome of Listeria monocytogenes infection in compromised and non-compromised adults; a comparative study of seventy-two cases.", "content": "The mortality in listeric meningitis and septicaemia, the two main clinical manifestations of the infection, is generally considered to be high. However, co-existing disorders rather than the listeric infection itself seem to determine the outcome. In the present study of 72 listeric infections among non-pregnant adults, 28 patients without co-existing disease had a fatality rate of 10.7% as compared to 57.9% among 19 immunocompromised individuals. Finally, in a third group of listeric patients, including alcoholics and people with heart disease or diabetes mellitus, the fatality rate was 24.0%.", "contents": "Outcome of Listeria monocytogenes infection in compromised and non-compromised adults; a comparative study of seventy-two cases. The mortality in listeric meningitis and septicaemia, the two main clinical manifestations of the infection, is generally considered to be high. However, co-existing disorders rather than the listeric infection itself seem to determine the outcome. In the present study of 72 listeric infections among non-pregnant adults, 28 patients without co-existing disease had a fatality rate of 10.7% as compared to 57.9% among 19 immunocompromised individuals. Finally, in a third group of listeric patients, including alcoholics and people with heart disease or diabetes mellitus, the fatality rate was 24.0%.", "PMID": 437892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3718", "title": "[The behaviour of serotonin in blood, the activity of monoaminooxidase in serum and of 5-hydroxyindoloacetic acid in twenty-four hour urine in patients with viral hepatitis (author's transl)].", "content": "The level of serotonin in blood, the activity of MAO in serum and the value of 5-HIAA in 24 hour urine were estimated in 76 patients with viral hepatitis divided according to clinical parameters into three groups (mild, mild to severe and severe clinical course). A statistically significant increase of serotonin level in blood compared with the healthy control group was found. Highest values were observed in patients with the severe form of viral hepatitis. Decreased values of 5-HIAA in 24 hour urine in the early course of the disease showed a tendency to increase in later examinations. The activity of MAO in serum was significantly lowered in all clinical forms of viral hepatitis.", "contents": "[The behaviour of serotonin in blood, the activity of monoaminooxidase in serum and of 5-hydroxyindoloacetic acid in twenty-four hour urine in patients with viral hepatitis (author's transl)]. The level of serotonin in blood, the activity of MAO in serum and the value of 5-HIAA in 24 hour urine were estimated in 76 patients with viral hepatitis divided according to clinical parameters into three groups (mild, mild to severe and severe clinical course). A statistically significant increase of serotonin level in blood compared with the healthy control group was found. Highest values were observed in patients with the severe form of viral hepatitis. Decreased values of 5-HIAA in 24 hour urine in the early course of the disease showed a tendency to increase in later examinations. The activity of MAO in serum was significantly lowered in all clinical forms of viral hepatitis.", "PMID": 437893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3719", "title": "Clinical, epidemiological and therapeutical experience with human tularaemia: the role of hamster hunters.", "content": "Fifty patients suffering from tularaemia were treated in our department. The most frequent occupation of the tularaemia patients was hamster hunter. The most important source of the tularaemic infection (90%) was the hamster (Cricetus cricetus). We observed the cutano-glandular form in 90% of the patients and internal tularaemia in 10%. The antibiotics used (streptomycin i. m., oxytetracycline and doxycycline per os) were effective.", "contents": "Clinical, epidemiological and therapeutical experience with human tularaemia: the role of hamster hunters. Fifty patients suffering from tularaemia were treated in our department. The most frequent occupation of the tularaemia patients was hamster hunter. The most important source of the tularaemic infection (90%) was the hamster (Cricetus cricetus). We observed the cutano-glandular form in 90% of the patients and internal tularaemia in 10%. The antibiotics used (streptomycin i. m., oxytetracycline and doxycycline per os) were effective.", "PMID": 437894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3720", "title": "Isolation of H1N1 influenza virus in Munich.", "content": "During an outbreak of a mild upper respiratory tract infection in a university children's hospital in Munich, an H1N1 influenza virus was isolated. Serological analysis of the isolate showed that antigenically the virus resembled the USSR/90/77 strain of influenza A virus which has been isolated in many parts of the world during the last two years.", "contents": "Isolation of H1N1 influenza virus in Munich. During an outbreak of a mild upper respiratory tract infection in a university children's hospital in Munich, an H1N1 influenza virus was isolated. Serological analysis of the isolate showed that antigenically the virus resembled the USSR/90/77 strain of influenza A virus which has been isolated in many parts of the world during the last two years.", "PMID": 437895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3721", "title": "[Infections caused by the so-called atypical mycobacteria (author's transl)].", "content": "A number of cases of patients in whom the so-called atypical mycobacteria were identified in our institute are presented briefly in this report. Predisposing factors such as occupation and existing tissue damage, particularly in prolonged respiratory tract diseases, play a significant role in the establishment of the infection in the host organism. The bacteriological culturing, testing and typing of these organisms is an important adjunct to the clinical picture.", "contents": "[Infections caused by the so-called atypical mycobacteria (author's transl)]. A number of cases of patients in whom the so-called atypical mycobacteria were identified in our institute are presented briefly in this report. Predisposing factors such as occupation and existing tissue damage, particularly in prolonged respiratory tract diseases, play a significant role in the establishment of the infection in the host organism. The bacteriological culturing, testing and typing of these organisms is an important adjunct to the clinical picture.", "PMID": 437896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3722", "title": "[In vitro testing of newer cephalosporins (author's transl)].", "content": "The spectrum of activity of the newer cephalosporins is considerably wider and includes a number of gram-negative bacteria. Test results using cephalothin as 'class disc' of a class of antibiotics is therefore no longer valid for the newer members. Like cefazoline, all of the above-mentioned antibiotics are more effective against Escherichia coli. Cefuroxin and cefoxitin also display increased effectiveness against Klebsiella, as do cefoxitin against Serratia and indolpositive Proteus species, and cefamandole and cefuroxime against Enterobacter. Cefotaxim is superior to all other agents, as was also demonstrated in our own inhibition zone tests; in addition cefotaxim is effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Since the various pathogens do not exhibit a uniform pattern of resistance to these antibiotics, the four new agents should for the time being be tested independently of cephalothin and cefazoline.", "contents": "[In vitro testing of newer cephalosporins (author's transl)]. The spectrum of activity of the newer cephalosporins is considerably wider and includes a number of gram-negative bacteria. Test results using cephalothin as 'class disc' of a class of antibiotics is therefore no longer valid for the newer members. Like cefazoline, all of the above-mentioned antibiotics are more effective against Escherichia coli. Cefuroxin and cefoxitin also display increased effectiveness against Klebsiella, as do cefoxitin against Serratia and indolpositive Proteus species, and cefamandole and cefuroxime against Enterobacter. Cefotaxim is superior to all other agents, as was also demonstrated in our own inhibition zone tests; in addition cefotaxim is effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Since the various pathogens do not exhibit a uniform pattern of resistance to these antibiotics, the four new agents should for the time being be tested independently of cephalothin and cefazoline.", "PMID": 437897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3723", "title": "[The role of chlamydiae in male urethro-adnexitis (author's transl)].", "content": "Chlamydiae belonging to Subgroup A occur in both the normal male urethra and in patients with urethro-adnexitis, which means that Chlamydiae must be attributed with a significant pathogenetic role in certain cases of abacterial urethroadnexitis. Susceptibility to erythromycin therapy confirms this.", "contents": "[The role of chlamydiae in male urethro-adnexitis (author's transl)]. Chlamydiae belonging to Subgroup A occur in both the normal male urethra and in patients with urethro-adnexitis, which means that Chlamydiae must be attributed with a significant pathogenetic role in certain cases of abacterial urethroadnexitis. Susceptibility to erythromycin therapy confirms this.", "PMID": 437898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3724", "title": "Chemotaxis inhibition induced in polymorphonuclear neutrophils by soluble immune complexes.", "content": "Complement-independent chemotactic factor(s) may be generated in fresh guinea pig serum by contact with soluble Ab1Ag1 immune complexes. This activated serum is equally efficient in inducing an unresponsive state in polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) to subsequent chemotaxis challenge with sera containing C-dependent or C-independent chemotactic factors. The unresponsiveness persists long after the removal of serum. Reagents which are inactive on complement but which prevent the generation of C-independent chemotactic factors in fresh serum (diisopropyl fluorophosphate, synthetic esters, kaolin) inhibit both the induction of PMN chemotaxis and the PMN deactivation. Conversely, serum from a guinea pig decomplemented in vivo retains its ability to generate C-independent factors active in PMN attraction and desensitization. The opposition of two pathways for the production of chemotactic factors in serum, one depending on complement, the other on the contact system of coagulation, is again emphasized. A different procedure for inducing unresponsiveness in PMN with soluble complexes in the absence of serum is also presented here.", "contents": "Chemotaxis inhibition induced in polymorphonuclear neutrophils by soluble immune complexes. Complement-independent chemotactic factor(s) may be generated in fresh guinea pig serum by contact with soluble Ab1Ag1 immune complexes. This activated serum is equally efficient in inducing an unresponsive state in polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) to subsequent chemotaxis challenge with sera containing C-dependent or C-independent chemotactic factors. The unresponsiveness persists long after the removal of serum. Reagents which are inactive on complement but which prevent the generation of C-independent chemotactic factors in fresh serum (diisopropyl fluorophosphate, synthetic esters, kaolin) inhibit both the induction of PMN chemotaxis and the PMN deactivation. Conversely, serum from a guinea pig decomplemented in vivo retains its ability to generate C-independent factors active in PMN attraction and desensitization. The opposition of two pathways for the production of chemotactic factors in serum, one depending on complement, the other on the contact system of coagulation, is again emphasized. A different procedure for inducing unresponsiveness in PMN with soluble complexes in the absence of serum is also presented here.", "PMID": 437907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3725", "title": "Allergenicity of concanavalin A in mice.", "content": "Concanavalin A (Con A) is a potent allergen in certain strains of mice and in particularly the H-2Kk mice, A/J, CBA/H, and C3H/He. Using a dose of 100 microgram, the subcutaneous route of injection was the most effective means of inducing high, persistent titers of T cell-dependent circulating anti-Con A reagins without the addition of the classical IgE adjuvants, aluminium hydroxide and Bordetella pertussis vaccine. Haptenated Con A induced reagins with antihapten specificity. In the discussion, one possible contributing factor in Con A allergenicity in genetically responder strains of mice is emphasised, namely, persistence in subcutaneous injection sites.", "contents": "Allergenicity of concanavalin A in mice. Concanavalin A (Con A) is a potent allergen in certain strains of mice and in particularly the H-2Kk mice, A/J, CBA/H, and C3H/He. Using a dose of 100 microgram, the subcutaneous route of injection was the most effective means of inducing high, persistent titers of T cell-dependent circulating anti-Con A reagins without the addition of the classical IgE adjuvants, aluminium hydroxide and Bordetella pertussis vaccine. Haptenated Con A induced reagins with antihapten specificity. In the discussion, one possible contributing factor in Con A allergenicity in genetically responder strains of mice is emphasised, namely, persistence in subcutaneous injection sites.", "PMID": 437908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3726", "title": "Nephelometric detection of soluble immune complexes: methodology and clinical applications.", "content": "We have developed a method for the detection of immune complexes by laser nephelometry which is simple, reproducible, suitable for automation, and generally adaptable for diagnostic testing. Light dispersion by antigen-antibody complexes in the test samples is measured after addition of polymeric buffer, which enhances the aggregation of complexes but does not significantly affect unbound immunoglobulins. The method was used to measure immune complexes formed in vitro by incubation of tetanus toxoid with serum from a rabbit previously hyperimmunized with the same antigen, and to compare the levels of immune complexes in human sera obtained from normal adults and from 37 patients with collagen vascular diseases or endocarditis. When precautions were taken to avoid interference produced by the presence of lipoproteins or by freezing of the samples, the results obtained with human sera were consistent with those expected for normal controls and for patients with conditions thought to be associated with the presence of soluble immune complexes.", "contents": "Nephelometric detection of soluble immune complexes: methodology and clinical applications. We have developed a method for the detection of immune complexes by laser nephelometry which is simple, reproducible, suitable for automation, and generally adaptable for diagnostic testing. Light dispersion by antigen-antibody complexes in the test samples is measured after addition of polymeric buffer, which enhances the aggregation of complexes but does not significantly affect unbound immunoglobulins. The method was used to measure immune complexes formed in vitro by incubation of tetanus toxoid with serum from a rabbit previously hyperimmunized with the same antigen, and to compare the levels of immune complexes in human sera obtained from normal adults and from 37 patients with collagen vascular diseases or endocarditis. When precautions were taken to avoid interference produced by the presence of lipoproteins or by freezing of the samples, the results obtained with human sera were consistent with those expected for normal controls and for patients with conditions thought to be associated with the presence of soluble immune complexes.", "PMID": 437909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3727", "title": "Release of slow-reacting substance from anaphylactic lung tissue and its modification by beta-sympathomimetics.", "content": "Anaphylactic release of slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) from chopped guinea pig lung was studied. The antibodies mediating the anaphylactic reaction were classified as IgG antibodies by PCA technique. Isoprenaline was found to inhibit the release of SRS-A in the concentration range 10-8-10-6M, while the beta2-selective agonist terbutaline showed inhibition in the concentration range 10-6-10-5M. The beta1-selective beta-agonist tazolol was ineffective when tested in the concentration range 10-7-10-5M. The rank order of inhibitory potency of the compounds on SRS-A release agree with that for histamine release.", "contents": "Release of slow-reacting substance from anaphylactic lung tissue and its modification by beta-sympathomimetics. Anaphylactic release of slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) from chopped guinea pig lung was studied. The antibodies mediating the anaphylactic reaction were classified as IgG antibodies by PCA technique. Isoprenaline was found to inhibit the release of SRS-A in the concentration range 10-8-10-6M, while the beta2-selective agonist terbutaline showed inhibition in the concentration range 10-6-10-5M. The beta1-selective beta-agonist tazolol was ineffective when tested in the concentration range 10-7-10-5M. The rank order of inhibitory potency of the compounds on SRS-A release agree with that for histamine release.", "PMID": 437910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3728", "title": "Circulating immune complexes and prognosis in human malignant lymphoma, a prospective study.", "content": "Sera from 53 patients with Hodgkin's disease (HD) and 56 patients with non-Hodgkin malignant lymphoma (NH) were investigated, prior to treatment, for the presence of circulating immune complexes (CIC) by the 125I-C1q-binding radioassay. The patients were then followed for 14-31 months. No significant association was found between the presence of CIC and achievement of complete remission in any of the groups. In none of the groups could a difference be found between the survival rates of patients with and without CIC in their sera prior to treatment. About half of the patients were retested for the presence of CIC after completion of initial therapy. No significant association was found between the presence of post-treatment CIC and lack of complete remission in any of the patient groups. In the HD group, both pre- and post-treatment CIC appeared to be most frequent among patients over 50 years. No such association was found in the NH group.", "contents": "Circulating immune complexes and prognosis in human malignant lymphoma, a prospective study. Sera from 53 patients with Hodgkin's disease (HD) and 56 patients with non-Hodgkin malignant lymphoma (NH) were investigated, prior to treatment, for the presence of circulating immune complexes (CIC) by the 125I-C1q-binding radioassay. The patients were then followed for 14-31 months. No significant association was found between the presence of CIC and achievement of complete remission in any of the groups. In none of the groups could a difference be found between the survival rates of patients with and without CIC in their sera prior to treatment. About half of the patients were retested for the presence of CIC after completion of initial therapy. No significant association was found between the presence of post-treatment CIC and lack of complete remission in any of the patient groups. In the HD group, both pre- and post-treatment CIC appeared to be most frequent among patients over 50 years. No such association was found in the NH group.", "PMID": 437911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3729", "title": "Homogeneously staining regions on marker chromosomes in malignancy.", "content": "Direct chromosome analysis with G-banding revealed homogeneously staining regions (HSR) in five of 16 human solid malignant tumours of different histological types. The HSR's were localized either terminally or interstitially on the marker chromosomes. The great stability of the HSR-carrying markers in the tumour cells suggests an interrelationship of malignant cell proliferation with the HSR. In a single case the HSR showed a moderate staining intensity for C-heterochromatin.", "contents": "Homogeneously staining regions on marker chromosomes in malignancy. Direct chromosome analysis with G-banding revealed homogeneously staining regions (HSR) in five of 16 human solid malignant tumours of different histological types. The HSR's were localized either terminally or interstitially on the marker chromosomes. The great stability of the HSR-carrying markers in the tumour cells suggests an interrelationship of malignant cell proliferation with the HSR. In a single case the HSR showed a moderate staining intensity for C-heterochromatin.", "PMID": 437912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3730", "title": "Induction of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity and pulmonary carcinoma.", "content": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity in lymphoblasts from normal Finnish adults and from patients with pulmonary carcinomas and other types of malignancy has been studied by a modification of previously used techniques. High absolute induced aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity was found in 39% of patients with untreated lung cancer but only in 15% of normal people. No increased frequency was found in the control group comprising other malignancies. The diagnosis of pulmonary carcinoma was made at a lower mean age (4.9 years younger) in the individuals with high aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity than in those with low activity. High absolute aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity was dominantly inherited in normal individuals, and the frequency of athe Ahb gene in the Finnish population was 8%.", "contents": "Induction of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity and pulmonary carcinoma. Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity in lymphoblasts from normal Finnish adults and from patients with pulmonary carcinomas and other types of malignancy has been studied by a modification of previously used techniques. High absolute induced aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity was found in 39% of patients with untreated lung cancer but only in 15% of normal people. No increased frequency was found in the control group comprising other malignancies. The diagnosis of pulmonary carcinoma was made at a lower mean age (4.9 years younger) in the individuals with high aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity than in those with low activity. High absolute aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity was dominantly inherited in normal individuals, and the frequency of athe Ahb gene in the Finnish population was 8%.", "PMID": 437913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3731", "title": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase inducibility is not altered in bladder cancer patients or their progeny.", "content": "We investigated the possible influence of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) on susceptibility to bladder cancer in humans. AHH inducibility was measured in the cultured lymphocytes of 16 patients who were being followed after successful treatment for bladder cancer, in 53 progeny of bladder cancer patients, and in matched controls. In both the progeny and patient populations, no evidence was found for a difference between the distribution of AHH inducibility or induced AHH activity compared to the distribution among control individuals. Thus, AHH acitivity or inducibility does not appear to be a major determinant of bladder cancer risk in humans.", "contents": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase inducibility is not altered in bladder cancer patients or their progeny. We investigated the possible influence of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) on susceptibility to bladder cancer in humans. AHH inducibility was measured in the cultured lymphocytes of 16 patients who were being followed after successful treatment for bladder cancer, in 53 progeny of bladder cancer patients, and in matched controls. In both the progeny and patient populations, no evidence was found for a difference between the distribution of AHH inducibility or induced AHH activity compared to the distribution among control individuals. Thus, AHH acitivity or inducibility does not appear to be a major determinant of bladder cancer risk in humans.", "PMID": 437914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3732", "title": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase inducibility and lymphoblast formation in lung cancer patients.", "content": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) inducibility and lymphoblast formation were studied in lymphocytes from healthy control subjects and from lung cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. The relationship between AHH inducibility and percentage lymphoblasts was statistically significant only for the pre-treatment patients (r = 0.598; p less than 0.05). In the control group and in patients undergoing radiotherapy the correlation between AHH inducibility and lymphoblast formation was positive but statistically it was not significant. Our data do not suggest a linear relationship between AHH inducibility and lymphoblast formation.", "contents": "Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase inducibility and lymphoblast formation in lung cancer patients. Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) inducibility and lymphoblast formation were studied in lymphocytes from healthy control subjects and from lung cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. The relationship between AHH inducibility and percentage lymphoblasts was statistically significant only for the pre-treatment patients (r = 0.598; p less than 0.05). In the control group and in patients undergoing radiotherapy the correlation between AHH inducibility and lymphoblast formation was positive but statistically it was not significant. Our data do not suggest a linear relationship between AHH inducibility and lymphoblast formation.", "PMID": 437915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3733", "title": "Burkitt's lymphoma in Ghana: urban-rural distribution, time-space clustering and seasonality.", "content": "Epidemiological data are summarized from 236 cases of Burkitt's lymphoma (greater than 90% cytologically or histologically confirmed) seen from 1970 through 1975 at Korle Bu Hospital, Accra, Ghana. The rate of referral from rural areas was greater than that from urban areas, despite a probable bias toward referral from urban areas. The distribution of cases in Ghana appeared to be non-random but we attribute this to variable access to medical care and physician interest. Rainfall did not appear to be an important factor. Seasonal variation and time-space clustering were not observed. The incidence here seems lower than that reported in East Africa. We found no evidence of an environmental influence with a short incubation period, as has been postulated for this disease in East Africa. The higher risk among rural patients is consistent with severe malaria being a factor in the etiology of Burkitt's lymphoma.", "contents": "Burkitt's lymphoma in Ghana: urban-rural distribution, time-space clustering and seasonality. Epidemiological data are summarized from 236 cases of Burkitt's lymphoma (greater than 90% cytologically or histologically confirmed) seen from 1970 through 1975 at Korle Bu Hospital, Accra, Ghana. The rate of referral from rural areas was greater than that from urban areas, despite a probable bias toward referral from urban areas. The distribution of cases in Ghana appeared to be non-random but we attribute this to variable access to medical care and physician interest. Rainfall did not appear to be an important factor. Seasonal variation and time-space clustering were not observed. The incidence here seems lower than that reported in East Africa. We found no evidence of an environmental influence with a short incubation period, as has been postulated for this disease in East Africa. The higher risk among rural patients is consistent with severe malaria being a factor in the etiology of Burkitt's lymphoma.", "PMID": 437917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3734", "title": "Dissociation of anti-tumor immune responses in rats immunized with solubilized tumor-associated antigens from a methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma.", "content": "Soluble tumor antigens were prepared from chemically-induced rat fibrosarcoma KMT-17 cells by various methods [Na-deoxycholate (DOC), 3 M-KCI extraction, and crude membrane preparations by mechanical disruption]. Soluble tumor antigens prepared by DOC extraction (DOC-STA) could be detected by a radioisotopic footpad assay (FPA) and they showed the strongest antigenic activity in KMT-17 immune rats. Anti-tumor immune responses in rats previously immunized with DOC-STA were measured by FPA, Winn assay, and transplantation resistance. Significant responses detected by the FPA and Winn assay were demonstrated in rats immunized with DOC-STA. However, rats previously immunized with DOC-STA showed a significant enhancement of tumor growth when challenged with KMT-17 cells. This enhancement was specific for the tumor line used. Normal rats which received adoptive transfer of thymus and spleen cells from rats immunized with DOC-STA produced specific enhancement of tumor growth as compared with non-treated rats. Administration of cyclophosphamide before immunization with DOC-STA abrogated the enhanced tumor growth in the host. These results suggest that immunization with soluble tumor antigens specifically enhanced tumor grwoth by the induction of immunosuppressor cells. Dissociation between the anti-tumor immunity detected by the FPA and Winn assay and the enhanced tumor growth detected by transplantation resistance in rats immunized with DOC-STA is discussed.", "contents": "Dissociation of anti-tumor immune responses in rats immunized with solubilized tumor-associated antigens from a methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma. Soluble tumor antigens were prepared from chemically-induced rat fibrosarcoma KMT-17 cells by various methods [Na-deoxycholate (DOC), 3 M-KCI extraction, and crude membrane preparations by mechanical disruption]. Soluble tumor antigens prepared by DOC extraction (DOC-STA) could be detected by a radioisotopic footpad assay (FPA) and they showed the strongest antigenic activity in KMT-17 immune rats. Anti-tumor immune responses in rats previously immunized with DOC-STA were measured by FPA, Winn assay, and transplantation resistance. Significant responses detected by the FPA and Winn assay were demonstrated in rats immunized with DOC-STA. However, rats previously immunized with DOC-STA showed a significant enhancement of tumor growth when challenged with KMT-17 cells. This enhancement was specific for the tumor line used. Normal rats which received adoptive transfer of thymus and spleen cells from rats immunized with DOC-STA produced specific enhancement of tumor growth as compared with non-treated rats. Administration of cyclophosphamide before immunization with DOC-STA abrogated the enhanced tumor growth in the host. These results suggest that immunization with soluble tumor antigens specifically enhanced tumor grwoth by the induction of immunosuppressor cells. Dissociation between the anti-tumor immunity detected by the FPA and Winn assay and the enhanced tumor growth detected by transplantation resistance in rats immunized with DOC-STA is discussed.", "PMID": 437918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3735", "title": "Enhancement of tumor outgrowth by tumor-associated blocking factors.", "content": "Transplanted lines of 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA)-induced BALB/c sarcomas were used for experiments in which tumors were mechanically suspended in Waymouth's culture medium, the suspensions centrifuged and filtered and the remaining cell-free \"tumor fluids\" (TF) tested for activity in vitro and in vivo. TF were found to inhibit (\"block\") cell-mediated cytotoxicity to tumor target cells in vitro with specificity for each tumor tested and even at high dilutions (1:1,000-1:10,000). In vivo, TF enhances the outgrowth of subcutaneously transplanted tumors in non-immune syngeneic mice. This enhancement had both specific and non-specific components, with the non-specific component being most apparent. Enhancement was best demonstrated when the TF were inoculated together with the tumor inocula. In one of two experiments in which TF were given intraperitoneally, specific enhancement was seen, whereas in the other, inhibition of tumor outgrowth was observed.", "contents": "Enhancement of tumor outgrowth by tumor-associated blocking factors. Transplanted lines of 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA)-induced BALB/c sarcomas were used for experiments in which tumors were mechanically suspended in Waymouth's culture medium, the suspensions centrifuged and filtered and the remaining cell-free \"tumor fluids\" (TF) tested for activity in vitro and in vivo. TF were found to inhibit (\"block\") cell-mediated cytotoxicity to tumor target cells in vitro with specificity for each tumor tested and even at high dilutions (1:1,000-1:10,000). In vivo, TF enhances the outgrowth of subcutaneously transplanted tumors in non-immune syngeneic mice. This enhancement had both specific and non-specific components, with the non-specific component being most apparent. Enhancement was best demonstrated when the TF were inoculated together with the tumor inocula. In one of two experiments in which TF were given intraperitoneally, specific enhancement was seen, whereas in the other, inhibition of tumor outgrowth was observed.", "PMID": 437919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3736", "title": "Inverse correlation between cell-surface adhesiveness and malignancy in mouse fibroblastoid cell lines.", "content": "The correlation between tumorigenicity and cell-surface adhesiveness was investigated in eight mouse fibroblastoid cell lines. Four of the lines (Mc 11-Mc 15) were derived from mouse MC-induced fibrosarcomas, two were derivatives of L cells (A9, A9HT), and two (clone 3 and clone 7 H7F4) were obtained by fusion of A9HT cells with normal diploid mouse lymphocytes. Quantitative comparison of cellular adhesive properties by the Latex particle adherence assay indicated that higher malignancy of some lines (Mc 11, 13, 14, A9HT cl 7 H7F4) was regularly associated with lower cell-surface adhesiveness and conversely, lower malignancy of the other lines (Mc 15, A9, cl 3) with high cell-surface adhesiveness. The differences in adhesiveness of cell lines of high and low malignancy were determined by cell subsets not attaching and Latex particles (24.6-61.9% of cells in highly and 4.6-12.0% in slightly tumorigenic lines) and cell subsets attaching more than 25 Latex particles per cell (14.6-17.2% in highly and 46.1-71.4% in less tumorigenic lines).", "contents": "Inverse correlation between cell-surface adhesiveness and malignancy in mouse fibroblastoid cell lines. The correlation between tumorigenicity and cell-surface adhesiveness was investigated in eight mouse fibroblastoid cell lines. Four of the lines (Mc 11-Mc 15) were derived from mouse MC-induced fibrosarcomas, two were derivatives of L cells (A9, A9HT), and two (clone 3 and clone 7 H7F4) were obtained by fusion of A9HT cells with normal diploid mouse lymphocytes. Quantitative comparison of cellular adhesive properties by the Latex particle adherence assay indicated that higher malignancy of some lines (Mc 11, 13, 14, A9HT cl 7 H7F4) was regularly associated with lower cell-surface adhesiveness and conversely, lower malignancy of the other lines (Mc 15, A9, cl 3) with high cell-surface adhesiveness. The differences in adhesiveness of cell lines of high and low malignancy were determined by cell subsets not attaching and Latex particles (24.6-61.9% of cells in highly and 4.6-12.0% in slightly tumorigenic lines) and cell subsets attaching more than 25 Latex particles per cell (14.6-17.2% in highly and 46.1-71.4% in less tumorigenic lines).", "PMID": 437920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3737", "title": "Discrepant effects of interferon murine syngeneic ascites tumors and their solid metastasizing counterparts.", "content": "The effects of interferon on mice with syngeneic tumors growing either intraperitoneally or as solid tumors were analyzed. The same dose that depressed the growth of ascites tumors, enhanced growth and in one case metastasizability of the corresponding solid tumors. The possibility that this was due to some host reaction is discussed. It seems important to develop animal models for analyzing interferon effects before treatment is initiated in human tumor disease.", "contents": "Discrepant effects of interferon murine syngeneic ascites tumors and their solid metastasizing counterparts. The effects of interferon on mice with syngeneic tumors growing either intraperitoneally or as solid tumors were analyzed. The same dose that depressed the growth of ascites tumors, enhanced growth and in one case metastasizability of the corresponding solid tumors. The possibility that this was due to some host reaction is discussed. It seems important to develop animal models for analyzing interferon effects before treatment is initiated in human tumor disease.", "PMID": 437921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3738", "title": "Influence of the mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) infection on the growth of human tumors in the athymic mouse.", "content": "The growth characteristics and histological appearance of tumors resulting from transplantation of the tumor lines HEp-2 and SW480 into pathogen-free and mouse hepatitis virus infected athymic mice were studied. Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal implantation 1 x 10(6) neoplastic cells into pathogen-free animals resulted in tumor growth. Subcutaneous transplants grew locally, surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. The fibrovascular stroma supporting the neoplastic tissue was minimal and infiltration of tumor capsule was observed. Intraperitoneal tumors grew in a multifocal pattern, were not encapsulated, showed marked invasiveness and metastasized. The same number of neoplastic cells (1 x 10(6)) transplanted into hepatitis-positive animals failed to develop into grossly visible tumors. When the number of transplanted cells was increased to 2 x 10(7), tumors appeared in a few animals. All tumors, regardless of the site of transplantation, were characterized by the presence of severe fibrohistiocytic reaction at the site of implantation that possibily influenced the tumor growth. No evidence supporting T-cell-mediated tumor rejection was observed. It is concluded that the state of health of the athymic mice is critical for the growth of human tumors and may account for the variations in reporting successful transplantation of such tumors in nude mice.", "contents": "Influence of the mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) infection on the growth of human tumors in the athymic mouse. The growth characteristics and histological appearance of tumors resulting from transplantation of the tumor lines HEp-2 and SW480 into pathogen-free and mouse hepatitis virus infected athymic mice were studied. Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal implantation 1 x 10(6) neoplastic cells into pathogen-free animals resulted in tumor growth. Subcutaneous transplants grew locally, surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. The fibrovascular stroma supporting the neoplastic tissue was minimal and infiltration of tumor capsule was observed. Intraperitoneal tumors grew in a multifocal pattern, were not encapsulated, showed marked invasiveness and metastasized. The same number of neoplastic cells (1 x 10(6)) transplanted into hepatitis-positive animals failed to develop into grossly visible tumors. When the number of transplanted cells was increased to 2 x 10(7), tumors appeared in a few animals. All tumors, regardless of the site of transplantation, were characterized by the presence of severe fibrohistiocytic reaction at the site of implantation that possibily influenced the tumor growth. No evidence supporting T-cell-mediated tumor rejection was observed. It is concluded that the state of health of the athymic mice is critical for the growth of human tumors and may account for the variations in reporting successful transplantation of such tumors in nude mice.", "PMID": 437922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3739", "title": "Oesophageal cancer and alcohol consumption; importance of type of beverage.", "content": "The role of alcohol consumption in oesophageal cancer in Normandy has been studied by a retrospective study of 312 male cases and 869 controls. The linear relationship between the logarithm of risk and overall daily alcohol consumption was confirmed after adjustment for tobacco. The role of each specific alcoholic beverage was further investigated by computing relative risks for individuals consuming a given beverage and for those drinking other beverages only, within each overall alcohol consumption category. It is concluded: (1) that there is a linear relationship between the logarithm of risk of oesophageal cancer and overall daily ethanol consumption, whatever the beverage; (2) that the effect is more marked for strong beverages; (3) that there is an additional risk related to apple brandy and cider.", "contents": "Oesophageal cancer and alcohol consumption; importance of type of beverage. The role of alcohol consumption in oesophageal cancer in Normandy has been studied by a retrospective study of 312 male cases and 869 controls. The linear relationship between the logarithm of risk and overall daily alcohol consumption was confirmed after adjustment for tobacco. The role of each specific alcoholic beverage was further investigated by computing relative risks for individuals consuming a given beverage and for those drinking other beverages only, within each overall alcohol consumption category. It is concluded: (1) that there is a linear relationship between the logarithm of risk of oesophageal cancer and overall daily ethanol consumption, whatever the beverage; (2) that the effect is more marked for strong beverages; (3) that there is an additional risk related to apple brandy and cider.", "PMID": 437923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3740", "title": "Some environmental and bodily characteristics of melanoma patients. A case-control study.", "content": "A case-control study including 78 patients with malignant melanoma of the skin and 131 controls with the diagnoses of malignant lymphoma, testicular cancer or bone and soft-tissue sarcoma, was performed at the Norwegian Radium Hospital 1974-1975. The questionnaire contained questions for evaluating the comparability between cases and controls, and questions bearing on the relation between sun exposure and malignant melanoma. No essential difference between cases and controls was found as regards hair and eye colour, time spent outdoors during leisure, and degree of solar exposure. The melanoma patients liked sunbathing less than controls, worked more outdoors, more often went to Southern Europe for sunbathing and more often used sun lotions. These differences, however, were not clearly statistically significant. Highly significant differences were demonstrated as regards the tolerance of sun exposure and propensity to freckling. The melanoma patients tolerated sun exposure less well and freckled more easily than the controls. Although attempts were made to eliminate bias, there are still limitations and loop-holes in the study, and the relative risks demonstrated are not large enough to be of great immediate practical or scientific value. It seems justified, however, to advise persons with a low sun exposure tolerance to be cautious in following the sun-tan-demanding fashions. The study may also provide certain clues for the planning of future epidemiological and clinical studies regarding the etiology of malignant melanoma.", "contents": "Some environmental and bodily characteristics of melanoma patients. A case-control study. A case-control study including 78 patients with malignant melanoma of the skin and 131 controls with the diagnoses of malignant lymphoma, testicular cancer or bone and soft-tissue sarcoma, was performed at the Norwegian Radium Hospital 1974-1975. The questionnaire contained questions for evaluating the comparability between cases and controls, and questions bearing on the relation between sun exposure and malignant melanoma. No essential difference between cases and controls was found as regards hair and eye colour, time spent outdoors during leisure, and degree of solar exposure. The melanoma patients liked sunbathing less than controls, worked more outdoors, more often went to Southern Europe for sunbathing and more often used sun lotions. These differences, however, were not clearly statistically significant. Highly significant differences were demonstrated as regards the tolerance of sun exposure and propensity to freckling. The melanoma patients tolerated sun exposure less well and freckled more easily than the controls. Although attempts were made to eliminate bias, there are still limitations and loop-holes in the study, and the relative risks demonstrated are not large enough to be of great immediate practical or scientific value. It seems justified, however, to advise persons with a low sun exposure tolerance to be cautious in following the sun-tan-demanding fashions. The study may also provide certain clues for the planning of future epidemiological and clinical studies regarding the etiology of malignant melanoma.", "PMID": 437925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3741", "title": "Murine natural anti-tumor antibodies. I. Rapid in vivo binding of natural antibody by tumor cells in syngeneic mice.", "content": "A competitive radioimmunoassay (RIA) for the detection of cell-bound antibody was used to study the in vivo acquisition of immunoglobulin (Ig) by tumor cells. Several tumor lines acquired Ig rapidly between 3 and 18 h after intraperitoneal implantation into normal syngeneic mice and this Ig was recovered by elution with basic or acid buffers. The Ig eluted from the L5178Y lymphoma showed higher binding to the L5178Y than to thymocytes, bone-marrow cells, 1509a sarcoma and P-815-X2 mastocytoma. In addition, binding of the eluates to the L5178Y was specifically inhibited by L5178Y cells or by solubilized membrane antigens of the L5178Y. The in vivo acquisition of Ig by the L5178Y could also be blocked by the IV and IP injections of tumor antigen although both L5178Y and 1509a solubilized membrane antigens were effective. Some of the Ig acquired by the tumor cells was found to be complement-fixing antibody since normal rabbit complement lysed 80% of L5178Y cells obtained from the peritoneal cavity of syngeneic mice 18 h after implantation, but did not lyse in vitro L5178Y cells. The in vivo binding of the complement-fixing antibodies was also inhibited by tumor antigens in the same way as the acquisition of Ig detected by RIA. It was shown that the acquisition of Ig during the first 18h of IP growth was a T-independent phenomenon because tumor cells acquire as much Ig in AT X BM mice as in sham-thymectomized controls. In a study with 11 different clones derived from the L5178Y lymphoma, a high correlation (r = 0.75, p less than 0.005) was found between the amount of Ig acquired after in vivo implantation and the amount of Ig bound to the cells after in vitro incubation with normal syngeneic serum. It is suggested that the rapid in vivo acquisition of Ig was due to the in vivo binding of natural antibodies to tumor cells.", "contents": "Murine natural anti-tumor antibodies. I. Rapid in vivo binding of natural antibody by tumor cells in syngeneic mice. A competitive radioimmunoassay (RIA) for the detection of cell-bound antibody was used to study the in vivo acquisition of immunoglobulin (Ig) by tumor cells. Several tumor lines acquired Ig rapidly between 3 and 18 h after intraperitoneal implantation into normal syngeneic mice and this Ig was recovered by elution with basic or acid buffers. The Ig eluted from the L5178Y lymphoma showed higher binding to the L5178Y than to thymocytes, bone-marrow cells, 1509a sarcoma and P-815-X2 mastocytoma. In addition, binding of the eluates to the L5178Y was specifically inhibited by L5178Y cells or by solubilized membrane antigens of the L5178Y. The in vivo acquisition of Ig by the L5178Y could also be blocked by the IV and IP injections of tumor antigen although both L5178Y and 1509a solubilized membrane antigens were effective. Some of the Ig acquired by the tumor cells was found to be complement-fixing antibody since normal rabbit complement lysed 80% of L5178Y cells obtained from the peritoneal cavity of syngeneic mice 18 h after implantation, but did not lyse in vitro L5178Y cells. The in vivo binding of the complement-fixing antibodies was also inhibited by tumor antigens in the same way as the acquisition of Ig detected by RIA. It was shown that the acquisition of Ig during the first 18h of IP growth was a T-independent phenomenon because tumor cells acquire as much Ig in AT X BM mice as in sham-thymectomized controls. In a study with 11 different clones derived from the L5178Y lymphoma, a high correlation (r = 0.75, p less than 0.005) was found between the amount of Ig acquired after in vivo implantation and the amount of Ig bound to the cells after in vitro incubation with normal syngeneic serum. It is suggested that the rapid in vivo acquisition of Ig was due to the in vivo binding of natural antibodies to tumor cells.", "PMID": 437926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3742", "title": "Treatment of micrometastases from Lewis lung carcinoma with abrin and cyclophosphamide, given singly and in combination.", "content": "The effect of the plant toxin abrin and of cyclophosphamide given as adjuvant chemotherapy after irradiation of the primary tumor was studied in mice bearing intramuscularly growing Lewis lung carcinoma. The chemotherapy was given immediately after irradiation performed 9 days after inoculation of 10(5) tumor cells. The drugs were given in bolus injections either as single agents or concurrently. The therapeutic effect was assessed by recording the appearance of lung metastases on day 21 or the number of long-term survivors, i.e. animals alive at day 60. In the control group 21 +/- 3.4 (SD) macroscopic lung colonies was recorded on day 21. Mean survival time was 25.5 days with none of the mice alive at day 60. The optimal abrin dose (612.5 ng/kg IV) reduced the number of lung metastases to 2.6 +/- 0.8 and yielded 37% long-term survivors (11/30). The optimal dose of cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg IP) reduced the number of lung colonies to less than 1 and yielded 61% survivors (14/23). Small to moderate doses of abrin significantly potentiated the therapeutic effect of cyclophosphamide without increasing the toxicity. The best results (18/20 or 90% long-term survivors) were obtained when the optimal dose of cyclophosphamide, 150 mg/kg, was combined with 350 ng/kg of abrin. The results obtained in this highly resistant tumor suggest that combinations of the two drugs may be useful also in other tumor types.", "contents": "Treatment of micrometastases from Lewis lung carcinoma with abrin and cyclophosphamide, given singly and in combination. The effect of the plant toxin abrin and of cyclophosphamide given as adjuvant chemotherapy after irradiation of the primary tumor was studied in mice bearing intramuscularly growing Lewis lung carcinoma. The chemotherapy was given immediately after irradiation performed 9 days after inoculation of 10(5) tumor cells. The drugs were given in bolus injections either as single agents or concurrently. The therapeutic effect was assessed by recording the appearance of lung metastases on day 21 or the number of long-term survivors, i.e. animals alive at day 60. In the control group 21 +/- 3.4 (SD) macroscopic lung colonies was recorded on day 21. Mean survival time was 25.5 days with none of the mice alive at day 60. The optimal abrin dose (612.5 ng/kg IV) reduced the number of lung metastases to 2.6 +/- 0.8 and yielded 37% long-term survivors (11/30). The optimal dose of cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg IP) reduced the number of lung colonies to less than 1 and yielded 61% survivors (14/23). Small to moderate doses of abrin significantly potentiated the therapeutic effect of cyclophosphamide without increasing the toxicity. The best results (18/20 or 90% long-term survivors) were obtained when the optimal dose of cyclophosphamide, 150 mg/kg, was combined with 350 ng/kg of abrin. The results obtained in this highly resistant tumor suggest that combinations of the two drugs may be useful also in other tumor types.", "PMID": 437927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3743", "title": "Neuroendocrine cells in serially passaged rat stomach cancers induced by MNNG.", "content": "Five gastric carcinomas, induced in inbred Wistar rats by oral administration of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) dissolved in drinking water, were successfully transplanted to isologous rats. The transplants grew to a size of 10 to 35 mm in diameter within 8 to 25 weeks of implantation. In one case, serial transplantation were maintained up to the 11th generation, with occurrence of distant metastasis in the 3rd generation. Histological histochemical, and electron microscopical comparison of the original and transplanted tumors revealed that (1) the original tumors were quite well differentiated, forming either papillary or tubular structures, whereas the transplants were more anaplastic and pleomorphic showing often solid nests; and (2) tumor cells with gastrointestinal differentiation and cells with neuroendocrine differentiation were present and evenly distributed in both the original and the serially transplanted tumors. As it is unlikely that the normal and neoplastic neuroendocrine cells are growing side-by-side with and independently of the epithelial neoplastic components in the present series of transplants, the findings strongly suggest (1) the multidirectional potency of the inbred rat stomach carcinoma cells and (2) the common neoplastic origin of the epithelial and neuroendocrine components.", "contents": "Neuroendocrine cells in serially passaged rat stomach cancers induced by MNNG. Five gastric carcinomas, induced in inbred Wistar rats by oral administration of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) dissolved in drinking water, were successfully transplanted to isologous rats. The transplants grew to a size of 10 to 35 mm in diameter within 8 to 25 weeks of implantation. In one case, serial transplantation were maintained up to the 11th generation, with occurrence of distant metastasis in the 3rd generation. Histological histochemical, and electron microscopical comparison of the original and transplanted tumors revealed that (1) the original tumors were quite well differentiated, forming either papillary or tubular structures, whereas the transplants were more anaplastic and pleomorphic showing often solid nests; and (2) tumor cells with gastrointestinal differentiation and cells with neuroendocrine differentiation were present and evenly distributed in both the original and the serially transplanted tumors. As it is unlikely that the normal and neoplastic neuroendocrine cells are growing side-by-side with and independently of the epithelial neoplastic components in the present series of transplants, the findings strongly suggest (1) the multidirectional potency of the inbred rat stomach carcinoma cells and (2) the common neoplastic origin of the epithelial and neuroendocrine components.", "PMID": 437928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3744", "title": "Circadian rhythmicity in rat intestinal villus length and cell number.", "content": "Circadian rhythmicity has been reported in various small intestinal digestive-absorptive functions and in the mitotic activity of intestinal crypt cells. These functional activity rhythms and perhaps the mitotic rhythms are cued by the feeding schedule. We now report that circadian rhythms also occurred in both the villus height and cell number in rats maintained on morning or afternoon feeding schedules for 7 days. Villus width was constant. In afternoon-fed rats both villus height and cell number were 50% greater just before feeding than 12 h later. The amplitudes of the two rhythms in the morning fed rats were decreased, the general shape of the cycles were changed and the average number of cells was increased. These changes between morning and afternoon feeding are attributed to incomplete phase shifting due to an insufficient adaptation span for the morning fed rats. We conclude that circadian rhythms occurring in villus height and cell number are affected by the feeding schedule. Similarities to some previously reported functional rhythms suggest that fluctuations in cell number and/or villus length might be related to the functional changes.", "contents": "Circadian rhythmicity in rat intestinal villus length and cell number. Circadian rhythmicity has been reported in various small intestinal digestive-absorptive functions and in the mitotic activity of intestinal crypt cells. These functional activity rhythms and perhaps the mitotic rhythms are cued by the feeding schedule. We now report that circadian rhythms also occurred in both the villus height and cell number in rats maintained on morning or afternoon feeding schedules for 7 days. Villus width was constant. In afternoon-fed rats both villus height and cell number were 50% greater just before feeding than 12 h later. The amplitudes of the two rhythms in the morning fed rats were decreased, the general shape of the cycles were changed and the average number of cells was increased. These changes between morning and afternoon feeding are attributed to incomplete phase shifting due to an insufficient adaptation span for the morning fed rats. We conclude that circadian rhythms occurring in villus height and cell number are affected by the feeding schedule. Similarities to some previously reported functional rhythms suggest that fluctuations in cell number and/or villus length might be related to the functional changes.", "PMID": 437929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3745", "title": "Circadian rhythm of cholesterol biosynthesis: dietary regulation in the liver and small intestine of hamsters.", "content": "Sixty three hamsters were divided into two groups which were exposed to the same rigid lighting schedule (06(00)--18(00)) but fed at different time intervals (18(00)--22(00), and 08(00)--12(00), respectively) for five weeks. The cholesterol synthetic activity was then determined in liver, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney by in vivo incorporation of (1--14C)-acetate into cholesterol at different hours of the day. A remarkable circadian rhythm of the activity was found in the liver and small intestine, but not in other organs. Regardless of the lighting schedule, the nadir occurred, in both groups, always at the end of the fasting period and the peak four to six hours after feeding. The study clearly indicated the major role of diet in regulation of such phenomenon.", "contents": "Circadian rhythm of cholesterol biosynthesis: dietary regulation in the liver and small intestine of hamsters. Sixty three hamsters were divided into two groups which were exposed to the same rigid lighting schedule (06(00)--18(00)) but fed at different time intervals (18(00)--22(00), and 08(00)--12(00), respectively) for five weeks. The cholesterol synthetic activity was then determined in liver, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney by in vivo incorporation of (1--14C)-acetate into cholesterol at different hours of the day. A remarkable circadian rhythm of the activity was found in the liver and small intestine, but not in other organs. Regardless of the lighting schedule, the nadir occurred, in both groups, always at the end of the fasting period and the peak four to six hours after feeding. The study clearly indicated the major role of diet in regulation of such phenomenon.", "PMID": 437931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3746", "title": "Effect of photoperiod reversal on twenty-four hour patterns for dopamine levels in the corpus striatum and upper and lower brainstem of the rat.", "content": "Dopamine levels were measured in the corpus striatum, upper and lower brainstem at 6 hour intervals for a period of 24 hours in rats adapted for 3 weeks to either of two concomitantly-conducted lighting programs. On the normal cycle the animals were illuminated from 08(00)--20(00); on the reverse cycle, from 20(00)--08(00). In the corpus striatum dopamine levels peaked during the dark phase of both illumination cycles indicating that 24 hour rhythm is exogenous. On the other hand, in the upper and lower brainstem, dopamine peaks occurred in both light cycles at 00(00) or 06(00) indicating that these 24 hour rhythms are endogenous in nature. Photoperiod reversal resulted in significantly elevated dopamine levels in the corpus striatum and lower brainstem. The existence of a stress as well as a seasonal factor which affects striatal dopamine is suggested.", "contents": "Effect of photoperiod reversal on twenty-four hour patterns for dopamine levels in the corpus striatum and upper and lower brainstem of the rat. Dopamine levels were measured in the corpus striatum, upper and lower brainstem at 6 hour intervals for a period of 24 hours in rats adapted for 3 weeks to either of two concomitantly-conducted lighting programs. On the normal cycle the animals were illuminated from 08(00)--20(00); on the reverse cycle, from 20(00)--08(00). In the corpus striatum dopamine levels peaked during the dark phase of both illumination cycles indicating that 24 hour rhythm is exogenous. On the other hand, in the upper and lower brainstem, dopamine peaks occurred in both light cycles at 00(00) or 06(00) indicating that these 24 hour rhythms are endogenous in nature. Photoperiod reversal resulted in significantly elevated dopamine levels in the corpus striatum and lower brainstem. The existence of a stress as well as a seasonal factor which affects striatal dopamine is suggested.", "PMID": 437932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3747", "title": "Introduction to the theme--state intervention and the social wage: the politics of social services expansion.", "content": "State intervention in the consumption process has become increasingly critical to economic growth on the one hand and to real family income on the other. The social wage thus tends to become a conflictual political issue. As a result, the articulation of state intervention with the changing requirements of economic growth is subject to continuous political challenge. This special issue examines the problematic relationship between state intervention in social services and the organization of the capitalist economy. Some contributors study the ways in which state inter ventions are structured so as to be consonant with the requirements of economic growth and profitability, as well as the difficulties such structures pose. Feshbach's analysis of the Hill-Burton Hospital Construction Program and Mollenkopf's study of San Francisco's public transit system both reflect this concern. Other contributors study the ways in which the organization of the economy constrains the development of democratically responsive social services. Sbragia's study of the capital market and public housing in Italy and Taylor's study of free medical clinics in the U.S. both reflect this concern. Finally, contributors study macroscopic transformations in the relationship between state intervention and the organization of the capitalist economy. Esping-Andersen's study of the political logic of increasing state intervention in production and Hirschhorn's analysis of the defunctionalization of social services attendent upon the disaccumulative tendencies in capitalism both reflect this concern. This introductory paper reviews four theories which attempt to explain how state intervention is insulated from democratic controls. For each theory, the mechanisms specified to perform this function are subject to weaknesses. An attempt is made to position the contributions to this volume with respect to these theoretical traditions.", "contents": "Introduction to the theme--state intervention and the social wage: the politics of social services expansion. State intervention in the consumption process has become increasingly critical to economic growth on the one hand and to real family income on the other. The social wage thus tends to become a conflictual political issue. As a result, the articulation of state intervention with the changing requirements of economic growth is subject to continuous political challenge. This special issue examines the problematic relationship between state intervention in social services and the organization of the capitalist economy. Some contributors study the ways in which state inter ventions are structured so as to be consonant with the requirements of economic growth and profitability, as well as the difficulties such structures pose. Feshbach's analysis of the Hill-Burton Hospital Construction Program and Mollenkopf's study of San Francisco's public transit system both reflect this concern. Other contributors study the ways in which the organization of the economy constrains the development of democratically responsive social services. Sbragia's study of the capital market and public housing in Italy and Taylor's study of free medical clinics in the U.S. both reflect this concern. Finally, contributors study macroscopic transformations in the relationship between state intervention and the organization of the capitalist economy. Esping-Andersen's study of the political logic of increasing state intervention in production and Hirschhorn's analysis of the defunctionalization of social services attendent upon the disaccumulative tendencies in capitalism both reflect this concern. This introductory paper reviews four theories which attempt to explain how state intervention is insulated from democratic controls. For each theory, the mechanisms specified to perform this function are subject to weaknesses. An attempt is made to position the contributions to this volume with respect to these theoretical traditions.", "PMID": 437933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3748", "title": "Borrowing to build: private money and public welfare.", "content": "The process of local government borrowing to finance the capital needs of social services has an impact on both central-local relations and the type of service which can be offered to the citizen-consumer. Based on an examination of these relationships in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy, it is postulated that different types of central-local relations are dependent on the nature of relations between central government and the investment community. Further, through use of material from a case study of public housing politics in Italy, it is shown how the investment criteria of the so-called \"private\" sector are transferred to the operations of the public sector through the mechanism of local borrowing. This transferal affects the manner in which social services are conceived and delivered.", "contents": "Borrowing to build: private money and public welfare. The process of local government borrowing to finance the capital needs of social services has an impact on both central-local relations and the type of service which can be offered to the citizen-consumer. Based on an examination of these relationships in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy, it is postulated that different types of central-local relations are dependent on the nature of relations between central government and the investment community. Further, through use of material from a case study of public housing politics in Italy, it is shown how the investment criteria of the so-called \"private\" sector are transferred to the operations of the public sector through the mechanism of local borrowing. This transferal affects the manner in which social services are conceived and delivered.", "PMID": 437934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3749", "title": "Alternative services: the case of free clinics.", "content": "The viability of a political mobilization and reform strategy based on the provision of care of alternative social service agencies is examined in the context of the achievements of free medical clinics in the United States. The development of genuine alternatives to the contemporary American health care system is limited by the monopoly of organized medicine, the scarcity of funds for preventive care, a class-based health insurance system, and the inadvertent role of free clinics in legitimating existing structures. American medicine constrains and shapes clinic activities through its control of certification, its specialist divisions and priveleges, and its pervasive ideology. Free clinics' responses to these constraints can engender: (a) high worker turnover, low morale, legal jeopardy, and curtailment of self-help programs; (b) the reproduction of medical hierarchies; and (c) patient-imposed limitations to the acceptability of alternative therapies and therapists. Clinics often pay dearly for the meager funds available to them; strings attached to special grants can change the character of free clinics, their social composition, and the treatment they offer. The usefulness of the free clinic as a safety valve and training facility may actually legitimate the current organization of health care. Free clinics provide an alternative form of care, but in the long run they cannot be a base for radical social change.", "contents": "Alternative services: the case of free clinics. The viability of a political mobilization and reform strategy based on the provision of care of alternative social service agencies is examined in the context of the achievements of free medical clinics in the United States. The development of genuine alternatives to the contemporary American health care system is limited by the monopoly of organized medicine, the scarcity of funds for preventive care, a class-based health insurance system, and the inadvertent role of free clinics in legitimating existing structures. American medicine constrains and shapes clinic activities through its control of certification, its specialist divisions and priveleges, and its pervasive ideology. Free clinics' responses to these constraints can engender: (a) high worker turnover, low morale, legal jeopardy, and curtailment of self-help programs; (b) the reproduction of medical hierarchies; and (c) patient-imposed limitations to the acceptability of alternative therapies and therapists. Clinics often pay dearly for the meager funds available to them; strings attached to special grants can change the character of free clinics, their social composition, and the treatment they offer. The usefulness of the free clinic as a safety valve and training facility may actually legitimate the current organization of health care. Free clinics provide an alternative form of care, but in the long run they cannot be a base for radical social change.", "PMID": 437935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3750", "title": "Comparative social policy and political conflict in advanced welfare states: Denmark and Sweden.", "content": "There has developed an abundant literature on the social and political determinants of social policies, but few have addressed the question of how state policies, once implemented, affect the system of stratification in civil society. This article examines the political consequences of social policy in Denmark and Sweden, countries in which a social democratic labor movement has predominated for decades. Superficially, these two highly developed welfare states appear very similar. Yet the political and social contexts in which their social policies have evolved differ substantially. I shall demonstrate the argument that the traditional welfare state approach may be conducive to a new and powerful political conflict, which directly questions the legitimacy of the welfare state itself, unless government is successful in subordinating private capitalist growth to effective public regulation. In Denmark, where social democratic governments have failed to match welfare state growth with more control of private capital, social policy has tended to undermine the political unity of the working class. Consequently, the Social Democratic Party has been weakened. Social welfare programs, in effect, have helped create new forms of stratification within the working class. In Sweden, social democratic governments have been quite successful in shifting a decisive degree of power over the private market to the state. This has helped avert a crisis of the welfare state, and has also been an important condition for continued social democratic hegemony and working-class unity. I conclude that social reform politics tend to be problematic from the point of view of the future power of social democratic movements.", "contents": "Comparative social policy and political conflict in advanced welfare states: Denmark and Sweden. There has developed an abundant literature on the social and political determinants of social policies, but few have addressed the question of how state policies, once implemented, affect the system of stratification in civil society. This article examines the political consequences of social policy in Denmark and Sweden, countries in which a social democratic labor movement has predominated for decades. Superficially, these two highly developed welfare states appear very similar. Yet the political and social contexts in which their social policies have evolved differ substantially. I shall demonstrate the argument that the traditional welfare state approach may be conducive to a new and powerful political conflict, which directly questions the legitimacy of the welfare state itself, unless government is successful in subordinating private capitalist growth to effective public regulation. In Denmark, where social democratic governments have failed to match welfare state growth with more control of private capital, social policy has tended to undermine the political unity of the working class. Consequently, the Social Democratic Party has been weakened. Social welfare programs, in effect, have helped create new forms of stratification within the working class. In Sweden, social democratic governments have been quite successful in shifting a decisive degree of power over the private market to the state. This has helped avert a crisis of the welfare state, and has also been an important condition for continued social democratic hegemony and working-class unity. I conclude that social reform politics tend to be problematic from the point of view of the future power of social democratic movements.", "PMID": 437936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3751", "title": "The theory of social services in disaccumulationist capitalism.", "content": "The theory of social services today must be based on a more general theory of the \"disaccumulation\" of capitalist society. Capitalist society disaccumulates as new productive forces emerge within the framework of the capitalist labor market. These forces are expressed abstractly in new sources of productivity based on information and organization and concretely in a new organization of work. This new organization of work breaks down the old capitalist division between labor and non-labor time and poses instead a more fluid interaction and integration of work and non-work. Capitalist society, however, disaccumulates through social crisis. The reorganization of work is simultaneously expressed as the decay of the labor market. This decay delegitimates social services and creates the present social service crisis. Social services can find their new sources of legitimacy only if social classes can move past the crisis of disaccumulation and find the appropriate new forms of social life based on the emerging non-capitalist organization of work.", "contents": "The theory of social services in disaccumulationist capitalism. The theory of social services today must be based on a more general theory of the \"disaccumulation\" of capitalist society. Capitalist society disaccumulates as new productive forces emerge within the framework of the capitalist labor market. These forces are expressed abstractly in new sources of productivity based on information and organization and concretely in a new organization of work. This new organization of work breaks down the old capitalist division between labor and non-labor time and poses instead a more fluid interaction and integration of work and non-work. Capitalist society, however, disaccumulates through social crisis. The reorganization of work is simultaneously expressed as the decay of the labor market. This decay delegitimates social services and creates the present social service crisis. Social services can find their new sources of legitimacy only if social classes can move past the crisis of disaccumulation and find the appropriate new forms of social life based on the emerging non-capitalist organization of work.", "PMID": 437937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3752", "title": "The use of a standardized battery of Luria's tests in the diagnosis of lateralized cerebral dysfunction.", "content": "The present study was designed to examine the capability of a standardized battery of Luria's qualitative neuropsychological techniques in discriminating between right, left and diffuse brain-injured subjects. A total of sixty medically confirmed brain-damaged subjects were equally divided among the three groups. Subjects were assigned to two groups (right, left) according to medically proven lateralized brain injury to either the right or left hemisphere in the absence of verifiable insult to the opposite hemisphere. A third group was also selected in which medical evidence confirmed damage to both hemispheres (diffuse group). All three groups were matched for age and education. All subjects were tested on a standardized version of 269 Luria's qualitative neuropsychological test items. The items were divided into 11 sections based upon Luria's theory of brain function. Each of the 11 sections plus a right and a left hemisphere scale as well as an overall impairment scale yielded 14 summary measures of performance representing several areas of neuropsychological ability and overall severity of brain dysfunction. Analysis of variance and discriminant analysis were used to compare the three groups on these 14 summary measures. Analysis of variance revealed on significant difference between the three groups on the Left scale with the left group performing poorest. Discriminant analysis predicted the status of 59 of 60 subjects correctly (98% hit rate). The implication of the lack of significant simple relationships (ANOVA) and the complex interrelationships found using the discriminant analysis were discussed in terms of the support these results provide for Luria's theory of brain function. The specific qualitative aspects of the test battery and their use in the diagnosis of lateralized brain injury were also discussed. Indications for future research were pointed out.", "contents": "The use of a standardized battery of Luria's tests in the diagnosis of lateralized cerebral dysfunction. The present study was designed to examine the capability of a standardized battery of Luria's qualitative neuropsychological techniques in discriminating between right, left and diffuse brain-injured subjects. A total of sixty medically confirmed brain-damaged subjects were equally divided among the three groups. Subjects were assigned to two groups (right, left) according to medically proven lateralized brain injury to either the right or left hemisphere in the absence of verifiable insult to the opposite hemisphere. A third group was also selected in which medical evidence confirmed damage to both hemispheres (diffuse group). All three groups were matched for age and education. All subjects were tested on a standardized version of 269 Luria's qualitative neuropsychological test items. The items were divided into 11 sections based upon Luria's theory of brain function. Each of the 11 sections plus a right and a left hemisphere scale as well as an overall impairment scale yielded 14 summary measures of performance representing several areas of neuropsychological ability and overall severity of brain dysfunction. Analysis of variance and discriminant analysis were used to compare the three groups on these 14 summary measures. Analysis of variance revealed on significant difference between the three groups on the Left scale with the left group performing poorest. Discriminant analysis predicted the status of 59 of 60 subjects correctly (98% hit rate). The implication of the lack of significant simple relationships (ANOVA) and the complex interrelationships found using the discriminant analysis were discussed in terms of the support these results provide for Luria's theory of brain function. The specific qualitative aspects of the test battery and their use in the diagnosis of lateralized brain injury were also discussed. Indications for future research were pointed out.", "PMID": 437940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3753", "title": "Common dimensions of visual and auditory agnosia and an explanation of the auditory recognition deficit in aphasia.", "content": "An experimental analysis of auditory recognition disturbances was performed; 81 patients with localized cerebral lesions were examined with a recognition test for meaningful sounds and with a nonverbal intelligence test (Block Design). Sensory stimulation was 5 or 15 sec for each sound. Nonverbal intelligence accounted for a considerable and significant amount of variance in recognition performance. The aphasic group was more impaired in auditory recognition than were both the other groups, i.e., patients with right or left hemispheric lesions without aphasia. The auditory recognition disturbance in the aphasic group depended to a significant extent on stimulus duration, which means a slowing down of the recognition process in aphasia. The analogies to studies on visual agnosia are striking. In both modalities, recognition depends on intellectual functioning, sensory disturbances or reduced sensory input, and the presence of aphasia.", "contents": "Common dimensions of visual and auditory agnosia and an explanation of the auditory recognition deficit in aphasia. An experimental analysis of auditory recognition disturbances was performed; 81 patients with localized cerebral lesions were examined with a recognition test for meaningful sounds and with a nonverbal intelligence test (Block Design). Sensory stimulation was 5 or 15 sec for each sound. Nonverbal intelligence accounted for a considerable and significant amount of variance in recognition performance. The aphasic group was more impaired in auditory recognition than were both the other groups, i.e., patients with right or left hemispheric lesions without aphasia. The auditory recognition disturbance in the aphasic group depended to a significant extent on stimulus duration, which means a slowing down of the recognition process in aphasia. The analogies to studies on visual agnosia are striking. In both modalities, recognition depends on intellectual functioning, sensory disturbances or reduced sensory input, and the presence of aphasia.", "PMID": 437941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3754", "title": "Morphine and intracranial self-stimulation in the hypothalamus and dorsal brainstem: differential effects of dose, time and site.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to examine if morphine, a drug of abuse, exerts site-specific effects on intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS). Rats, implanted with dorsal brainstem (DB) and hypothalamic (HYP) electrodes, bar-pressed for ICSS at two current intensities eight hours a day during six days each of predrug saline, morphine (2.5, 5.0, 7.5 or 10.0 mg/kg) and postdrug saline conditions. There were three patterns of drug effects: \"pure\" depressions, \"pure\" facilitations and a biphasic pattern (depressions followed by facilitations). Repeated morphine administration modified the temporal patterning of these effects: shortened duration of depressions and produced earlier onsets of facilitations. Within an animal, DB electrodes displayed more depressions than the HYP electrodes. Tolerance to the depressant effects, observed frequently, occurred occasionally to the facilitative effects of morphine. The drug effects on ICSS were dissociated from those observed on other behavioral measures, and thus are not artifacts of concomitant changes in activity levels.", "contents": "Morphine and intracranial self-stimulation in the hypothalamus and dorsal brainstem: differential effects of dose, time and site. The purpose of this study was to examine if morphine, a drug of abuse, exerts site-specific effects on intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS). Rats, implanted with dorsal brainstem (DB) and hypothalamic (HYP) electrodes, bar-pressed for ICSS at two current intensities eight hours a day during six days each of predrug saline, morphine (2.5, 5.0, 7.5 or 10.0 mg/kg) and postdrug saline conditions. There were three patterns of drug effects: \"pure\" depressions, \"pure\" facilitations and a biphasic pattern (depressions followed by facilitations). Repeated morphine administration modified the temporal patterning of these effects: shortened duration of depressions and produced earlier onsets of facilitations. Within an animal, DB electrodes displayed more depressions than the HYP electrodes. Tolerance to the depressant effects, observed frequently, occurred occasionally to the facilitative effects of morphine. The drug effects on ICSS were dissociated from those observed on other behavioral measures, and thus are not artifacts of concomitant changes in activity levels.", "PMID": 437942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3755", "title": "Cultural hemisphericity: evidence from cognitive tests.", "content": "Cultural differences in appositional abilities were investigated. Items from two gestalt completion tests were modified to examine the effects of stimulus manipulations (e.g., background color, presence of details) on previously observed ethnic differences in performance. Overall, black subjects again scored higher than white subjects; women scored higher than men. However, these differences varied with certain stimulus manipulations. These findings suggest that, by investigating gestalt completion, we can better understand the cognitive factors underlying appositional abilities.", "contents": "Cultural hemisphericity: evidence from cognitive tests. Cultural differences in appositional abilities were investigated. Items from two gestalt completion tests were modified to examine the effects of stimulus manipulations (e.g., background color, presence of details) on previously observed ethnic differences in performance. Overall, black subjects again scored higher than white subjects; women scored higher than men. However, these differences varied with certain stimulus manipulations. These findings suggest that, by investigating gestalt completion, we can better understand the cognitive factors underlying appositional abilities.", "PMID": 437943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3756", "title": "How the nervous system determines the quantity of information delivered by signals.", "content": "Starting from the finding that the brain responds to received signals according to the quantity of information (Restian, 1978), the author tried to answer the question: How does the brain discover the quantity of information brought by these signals? In order to reply to this question, the author appealed to two sources that emitted similar signals containing different information. It was found that although the signals brought different information at the beginning they functioned similarly. Only after a period of time did the signals come to function differently, according to the quantity of information delivered by them. This fact demonstrates that the brain operates neither on signals nor on source-emitted information. The brain operates on information discovered by it in the respective signals, and the discovery of the information the received signals is done according an internal model constructed by the brain concerning the respective source. It can be affirmed by the fact that together with the improvement of the model, the results of the received signals are modified.", "contents": "How the nervous system determines the quantity of information delivered by signals. Starting from the finding that the brain responds to received signals according to the quantity of information (Restian, 1978), the author tried to answer the question: How does the brain discover the quantity of information brought by these signals? In order to reply to this question, the author appealed to two sources that emitted similar signals containing different information. It was found that although the signals brought different information at the beginning they functioned similarly. Only after a period of time did the signals come to function differently, according to the quantity of information delivered by them. This fact demonstrates that the brain operates neither on signals nor on source-emitted information. The brain operates on information discovered by it in the respective signals, and the discovery of the information the received signals is done according an internal model constructed by the brain concerning the respective source. It can be affirmed by the fact that together with the improvement of the model, the results of the received signals are modified.", "PMID": 437944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3757", "title": "A possible link between intelligence level and habituation of the GSR.", "content": "An attempt was made to correlate the intelligence level of three well-defined groups (Gifted, IQ 140; Normal, 95 IQ 105: Mentally retarded, 45 IQ 55) and the habituation rate and pattern of a GSR response to a series of light stimuli. The results indicate that the gifted and normal groups yield systematic patterns of GSR responding in contrast to the mentally retarded, whose distribution of GSR response pattern differs. The mentally retarded seem to yeild a larger number of ill-defined, non-systematic GSR responses. These results indicate a possible link between the measured level of intelligence by IQ test and the habituation pattern in an autonomic nervous system response.", "contents": "A possible link between intelligence level and habituation of the GSR. An attempt was made to correlate the intelligence level of three well-defined groups (Gifted, IQ 140; Normal, 95 IQ 105: Mentally retarded, 45 IQ 55) and the habituation rate and pattern of a GSR response to a series of light stimuli. The results indicate that the gifted and normal groups yield systematic patterns of GSR responding in contrast to the mentally retarded, whose distribution of GSR response pattern differs. The mentally retarded seem to yeild a larger number of ill-defined, non-systematic GSR responses. These results indicate a possible link between the measured level of intelligence by IQ test and the habituation pattern in an autonomic nervous system response.", "PMID": 437946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3758", "title": "Structural and biochemical changes in vitamin A--deficient rat retinas.", "content": "The levels of rhodopsin and opsin were investigated in relation to the maintenance of retinal structure in retinas of vitamin A--deficient rats in low levels of cyclic illumination (1.5 to 2 foot-candles). Rhodopsin levels decreased in the deficient retinas to approximately 20% of control at 9 weeks, and this level was retained through 39 weeks on the deficient diet. Opsin levels decreased at a slower rate but reached about 20% of control levels at 32 weeks. Despite the decrease in rhodopsin levels, obvious deterioration of disc structure was not observed until 16 weeks of deficiency, when opsin levels had already decreased to 60% to 70% of control. The structural disruption of photoreceptor outer segments was localized initially in discs of the distal third. Rod cell degeneration preceded cone cell degeneration in vitamin A--deficient retinas. Most of the rods and cones persisted in the posterior retina at 23 weeks on the deficient diet; however, by 40 weeks, only 11% of the rod nuclei remained. In contrast, about 63% of the cone nuclei were present at 40 weeks of deficiency. The photoreceptor cells were affected by the deficiency to a greater extent in the inferior hemisphere than in the superior hemisphere of the eye.", "contents": "Structural and biochemical changes in vitamin A--deficient rat retinas. The levels of rhodopsin and opsin were investigated in relation to the maintenance of retinal structure in retinas of vitamin A--deficient rats in low levels of cyclic illumination (1.5 to 2 foot-candles). Rhodopsin levels decreased in the deficient retinas to approximately 20% of control at 9 weeks, and this level was retained through 39 weeks on the deficient diet. Opsin levels decreased at a slower rate but reached about 20% of control levels at 32 weeks. Despite the decrease in rhodopsin levels, obvious deterioration of disc structure was not observed until 16 weeks of deficiency, when opsin levels had already decreased to 60% to 70% of control. The structural disruption of photoreceptor outer segments was localized initially in discs of the distal third. Rod cell degeneration preceded cone cell degeneration in vitamin A--deficient retinas. Most of the rods and cones persisted in the posterior retina at 23 weeks on the deficient diet; however, by 40 weeks, only 11% of the rod nuclei remained. In contrast, about 63% of the cone nuclei were present at 40 weeks of deficiency. The photoreceptor cells were affected by the deficiency to a greater extent in the inferior hemisphere than in the superior hemisphere of the eye.", "PMID": 437947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3759", "title": "Sunlight and human cataracts.", "content": "Studies of the cataractous lenses of humans in three different geographic locations indicate that where the ultraviolet components of sunlight are more intense, dark brown cataracts result at a higher frequency than in locations where they are weak. Individuals exposed to sunlight regularly by virtue of their outdoor occupations seemed to develop this dark brown type of cataract much more frequently than those who work indoors. The biochemical characteristics of all brunescent cataracts were found to be very similar, whether derived from individuals exposed to high or low levels of sunlight. These findings support the idea that exposure to sunlight specifically enhances brunescent cataract development in humans.", "contents": "Sunlight and human cataracts. Studies of the cataractous lenses of humans in three different geographic locations indicate that where the ultraviolet components of sunlight are more intense, dark brown cataracts result at a higher frequency than in locations where they are weak. Individuals exposed to sunlight regularly by virtue of their outdoor occupations seemed to develop this dark brown type of cataract much more frequently than those who work indoors. The biochemical characteristics of all brunescent cataracts were found to be very similar, whether derived from individuals exposed to high or low levels of sunlight. These findings support the idea that exposure to sunlight specifically enhances brunescent cataract development in humans.", "PMID": 437948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3760", "title": "Vision through an abnormal cornea: a pilot study of the relationship between visual loss from corneal distortion, corneal edema, keratoconus, and some allied corneal pathology.", "content": "Visual function was assessed by classic acuity measures as well as contrast thresholds over a wide spatial frequency range for subjects with experimentally induced corneal distortion and induced corneal edema. These results were compared with similar results for patients with uniocular keratoconus, bilateral keratoconus, and allied corneal pathology. Distortion and edema were found to produce characteristically different types of contrast attenuation at threshold (amplitude) and have quite different suprathreshold abnormalities (phase) for objects within the resolution limit and therefore could form the basis of a useful functional classification of the visual degradation from corneal pathology.", "contents": "Vision through an abnormal cornea: a pilot study of the relationship between visual loss from corneal distortion, corneal edema, keratoconus, and some allied corneal pathology. Visual function was assessed by classic acuity measures as well as contrast thresholds over a wide spatial frequency range for subjects with experimentally induced corneal distortion and induced corneal edema. These results were compared with similar results for patients with uniocular keratoconus, bilateral keratoconus, and allied corneal pathology. Distortion and edema were found to produce characteristically different types of contrast attenuation at threshold (amplitude) and have quite different suprathreshold abnormalities (phase) for objects within the resolution limit and therefore could form the basis of a useful functional classification of the visual degradation from corneal pathology.", "PMID": 437949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3761", "title": "Improved use of tapetal reflection for eye-position monitoring.", "content": "A new technique is described for eye-position monitoring in species with strong tapetal reflections. A fiber optic is used to introduce light into the eye, whose optics then produce an image of the fundus on a tangent in front of the animal. The technique simplifies heretofore tedious measurement of cylotorsional changes, as well as providing a very wide view of the fundus. It has been used successfully in conjunction with single-unit recording from the visual system.", "contents": "Improved use of tapetal reflection for eye-position monitoring. A new technique is described for eye-position monitoring in species with strong tapetal reflections. A fiber optic is used to introduce light into the eye, whose optics then produce an image of the fundus on a tangent in front of the animal. The technique simplifies heretofore tedious measurement of cylotorsional changes, as well as providing a very wide view of the fundus. It has been used successfully in conjunction with single-unit recording from the visual system.", "PMID": 437951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3762", "title": "Abnormal saccadic substitution during small-amplitude pursuit tracking in amblyopic eyes.", "content": "Small-amplitude, low-velocity, predictable triangular tracking was tested in patients having amblyopia without strabismus, intermittent strabismus, or constant strabismus amblyopia by means of a photoelectric eye-movement recording technique. In the majority of amblyopic patients, abnormal saccadic substitution was found; that is, abnormally large saccades rather than small-amplitude smooth movements were used by the amblyopic eye to follow a spot stimulus that moved horizontally with low to high frequencies. Pursuit for the same range of stimuli was normal for binocular tracking and for monocular tracking with the dominant eye, pointing to a sensory rather than motor basis for the defect. This abnormal saccadic substitution response appeared to be related to the presence of amblyopia rather than strabismus. Several possible mechanisms responsible for causing this unusual response are discussed, including impairment of direction sense over small central regions of the amblyopic eye.", "contents": "Abnormal saccadic substitution during small-amplitude pursuit tracking in amblyopic eyes. Small-amplitude, low-velocity, predictable triangular tracking was tested in patients having amblyopia without strabismus, intermittent strabismus, or constant strabismus amblyopia by means of a photoelectric eye-movement recording technique. In the majority of amblyopic patients, abnormal saccadic substitution was found; that is, abnormally large saccades rather than small-amplitude smooth movements were used by the amblyopic eye to follow a spot stimulus that moved horizontally with low to high frequencies. Pursuit for the same range of stimuli was normal for binocular tracking and for monocular tracking with the dominant eye, pointing to a sensory rather than motor basis for the defect. This abnormal saccadic substitution response appeared to be related to the presence of amblyopia rather than strabismus. Several possible mechanisms responsible for causing this unusual response are discussed, including impairment of direction sense over small central regions of the amblyopic eye.", "PMID": 437952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3763", "title": "Nuclear translocation of the cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor in the iris--ciliary body of the rabbit.", "content": "The cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor of the iris--ciliary body of the rabbit has been shown to translocate to the cell nucleus within 30 min of an injection of cortisol. Over the next 2 1/2 hr the amount of receptor returns to the control value. The threshold of the loss of receptor from the cytosol was found at 0.04 mg of cortisol per kilogram body weight, with a maximal loss being reached at a cortisol dose of 0.5 mg/kg B.W. The inactive glucocorticoid tetrahydrocortisol and the major sex steroids, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol, and progesterone, had little or no effect on this translocation, indicating the specificity of the cortisol effect. Thus this receptor appears to migrate to the cell nucleus in a manner similar to that found in other steroid-sensitive tissues and is consistent with the accepted mechanism whereby these hormones regulate differential gene expression in the nucleus.", "contents": "Nuclear translocation of the cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor in the iris--ciliary body of the rabbit. The cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor of the iris--ciliary body of the rabbit has been shown to translocate to the cell nucleus within 30 min of an injection of cortisol. Over the next 2 1/2 hr the amount of receptor returns to the control value. The threshold of the loss of receptor from the cytosol was found at 0.04 mg of cortisol per kilogram body weight, with a maximal loss being reached at a cortisol dose of 0.5 mg/kg B.W. The inactive glucocorticoid tetrahydrocortisol and the major sex steroids, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol, and progesterone, had little or no effect on this translocation, indicating the specificity of the cortisol effect. Thus this receptor appears to migrate to the cell nucleus in a manner similar to that found in other steroid-sensitive tissues and is consistent with the accepted mechanism whereby these hormones regulate differential gene expression in the nucleus.", "PMID": 437953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3764", "title": "X-like and Y-like ganglion cells in the Necturus retina.", "content": "The linearity of spatial summation within the receptive fields of Necturus retinal ganglion cells was examined with a counterphase-modulated split-field test stimulus. Modulation-locked histograms were constructed with the border at a variety of positions relative to the receptive field center. Most cells generated distinct, modulation-locked discharges when the border was 0.10 to 0.25 mm from the receptive field center. The discharges for more central border positions depended upon response type. Sustained-responding cells showed a sharp decrease in total response per cycle at the center position and increasing response for increasingly eccentric positions, i.e., nulling or X-like behavior. In contrast, the total response of transiently responding cells was largely independent of border position. For central positions of the border, these cells generated two bursts of impulses per cycle, i.e., frequency doubling or Y-like behavior.", "contents": "X-like and Y-like ganglion cells in the Necturus retina. The linearity of spatial summation within the receptive fields of Necturus retinal ganglion cells was examined with a counterphase-modulated split-field test stimulus. Modulation-locked histograms were constructed with the border at a variety of positions relative to the receptive field center. Most cells generated distinct, modulation-locked discharges when the border was 0.10 to 0.25 mm from the receptive field center. The discharges for more central border positions depended upon response type. Sustained-responding cells showed a sharp decrease in total response per cycle at the center position and increasing response for increasingly eccentric positions, i.e., nulling or X-like behavior. In contrast, the total response of transiently responding cells was largely independent of border position. For central positions of the border, these cells generated two bursts of impulses per cycle, i.e., frequency doubling or Y-like behavior.", "PMID": 437954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3765", "title": "Activation of initial wound healing responses in rat corneas in organ culture by mesodermal growth factor.", "content": "In organ culture, mesodermal growth factor (MGF) from mouse submaxillary glands stimulates fibroblast formation, mitosis, and migration of cells into the dead-cell zone adjacent to the wound edge of rat corneal buttons. A classic dose-response relationship between the width of the stromal fibroblast zone and the dose of MGF suggests that fibroblast zone width may be used as a measure for screening agents which influence the initial stages of corneal wound healing.", "contents": "Activation of initial wound healing responses in rat corneas in organ culture by mesodermal growth factor. In organ culture, mesodermal growth factor (MGF) from mouse submaxillary glands stimulates fibroblast formation, mitosis, and migration of cells into the dead-cell zone adjacent to the wound edge of rat corneal buttons. A classic dose-response relationship between the width of the stromal fibroblast zone and the dose of MGF suggests that fibroblast zone width may be used as a measure for screening agents which influence the initial stages of corneal wound healing.", "PMID": 437955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3766", "title": "A comparison of three methods for the measurement of corneal thickness.", "content": "Four subjects who had never worn contact lenses underwent measurement of their corneal thickness by each of three measurement methods: Haag-Streit pachometer with/and without Mishima-Hedby attachment and the Syber specular microscope. Data were collected on three separate sessions, and at each session triplicate measurement trials were made for each method. The resulting 108 measurements were analyzed statistically. Significant differences were found among the measurement methods. Two of the methods were found to be consistent from session to session. In addition, the specular microscope was found to be the most precise method within a session. It was concluded that the specular microscope, which highly trained technicians can utilize to make the measurements, offers a valuable alternative to the measurement of corneal thickness in long-term prospective studies.", "contents": "A comparison of three methods for the measurement of corneal thickness. Four subjects who had never worn contact lenses underwent measurement of their corneal thickness by each of three measurement methods: Haag-Streit pachometer with/and without Mishima-Hedby attachment and the Syber specular microscope. Data were collected on three separate sessions, and at each session triplicate measurement trials were made for each method. The resulting 108 measurements were analyzed statistically. Significant differences were found among the measurement methods. Two of the methods were found to be consistent from session to session. In addition, the specular microscope was found to be the most precise method within a session. It was concluded that the specular microscope, which highly trained technicians can utilize to make the measurements, offers a valuable alternative to the measurement of corneal thickness in long-term prospective studies.", "PMID": 437956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3767", "title": "Measurement of corneal DNA content.", "content": "The amount of DNA in the corneal epithelium, stroma, and endothelium of both rabbit and bovine tissue was measured by a diphenylamine assay procedure. The results indicate that hot perchloric acid extraction is required to effectively solubilize the corneal DNA for assay. Rabbit corneal epithelium, stroma, and endothelium were found to contain 53.8, 1.7, and 4.3 microgram of DNA per milligram of tissue dry weight, respectively. Bovine corneal epithelium contained 15.8 microgram/mg DNA, stroma 0.6 microgram/mg DNA, and endothelium 3.1 microgram/mg. These data provide a basis for an expression of the cellularity of corneal layers.", "contents": "Measurement of corneal DNA content. The amount of DNA in the corneal epithelium, stroma, and endothelium of both rabbit and bovine tissue was measured by a diphenylamine assay procedure. The results indicate that hot perchloric acid extraction is required to effectively solubilize the corneal DNA for assay. Rabbit corneal epithelium, stroma, and endothelium were found to contain 53.8, 1.7, and 4.3 microgram of DNA per milligram of tissue dry weight, respectively. Bovine corneal epithelium contained 15.8 microgram/mg DNA, stroma 0.6 microgram/mg DNA, and endothelium 3.1 microgram/mg. These data provide a basis for an expression of the cellularity of corneal layers.", "PMID": 437957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3768", "title": "[Acute generalized pustular bacterid: a variety of pustular Andrew's bacterid].", "content": "Eight cases of acute pustular bacterid preceded by angina of beta-streptococcal origin are summarized. Although this disease appears to be an acute type of pustular bacterid Andrews, the elevated antistreptolysin titers and the histological features of vasculitis with perivascular deposits of C3 and IgM seem to be remarkable findings. One of the patients' skin symptoms were complicated by a glomerulonephritis. The skin lesions improved rapidly after systemic administration of glucocorticosteroids.", "contents": "[Acute generalized pustular bacterid: a variety of pustular Andrew's bacterid]. Eight cases of acute pustular bacterid preceded by angina of beta-streptococcal origin are summarized. Although this disease appears to be an acute type of pustular bacterid Andrews, the elevated antistreptolysin titers and the histological features of vasculitis with perivascular deposits of C3 and IgM seem to be remarkable findings. One of the patients' skin symptoms were complicated by a glomerulonephritis. The skin lesions improved rapidly after systemic administration of glucocorticosteroids.", "PMID": 437970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3769", "title": "[Pseudoporphyria cutanea tarda in hemodialysis patients].", "content": "A bullous disease very similar to late onset cutaneous porphyria has been found in approximately 16 percent of the patients on intermittend hemodialysis. The bullae occur during the summer and are situated on exposed areas, particularly hands, head and neck. There is skin fragility and the bullae are transient, giving place to erosions and later to atrophic scarring. Even milia have been observed. Histology reveals a subepidermal bulla, the basis of which consists of spiky papillary dermis. Immunofluorescence shows immunoglobulin depoits in the vessels and basal membrans. All porphyrin measurements are negative. This disorder may be due to the precence of a non porphyrinogenic photosensitizing substance.", "contents": "[Pseudoporphyria cutanea tarda in hemodialysis patients]. A bullous disease very similar to late onset cutaneous porphyria has been found in approximately 16 percent of the patients on intermittend hemodialysis. The bullae occur during the summer and are situated on exposed areas, particularly hands, head and neck. There is skin fragility and the bullae are transient, giving place to erosions and later to atrophic scarring. Even milia have been observed. Histology reveals a subepidermal bulla, the basis of which consists of spiky papillary dermis. Immunofluorescence shows immunoglobulin depoits in the vessels and basal membrans. All porphyrin measurements are negative. This disorder may be due to the precence of a non porphyrinogenic photosensitizing substance.", "PMID": 437971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3770", "title": "[Carpal tunnel syndrome in diffuse scleroderma].", "content": "A 61 year old female patient with diffuse scleroderma, complicated by carpal tunnel syndrome, is reported. The coexistence of carpal tunnel syndrome with dermatomyositis and lupus erythematodes is reviewed.", "contents": "[Carpal tunnel syndrome in diffuse scleroderma]. A 61 year old female patient with diffuse scleroderma, complicated by carpal tunnel syndrome, is reported. The coexistence of carpal tunnel syndrome with dermatomyositis and lupus erythematodes is reviewed.", "PMID": 437972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3771", "title": "[Skin metastasis of an ovarian carcinoma imitating erythema anulare].", "content": "The histopathology of an anular erythemalike dermatosis unexpectedly showed metastases of a carcinoma of the ovary.", "contents": "[Skin metastasis of an ovarian carcinoma imitating erythema anulare]. The histopathology of an anular erythemalike dermatosis unexpectedly showed metastases of a carcinoma of the ovary.", "PMID": 437973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3772", "title": "[Pathophysiology and clinical aspects of the venous low-pressure system].", "content": "The pathophysiology especially of the venous low-pressure system, the venous muscle pump, and the pressure-volume relation is represented. The clinical manifestations--varicous veins-varicophlebitis, phlebothrombosis, and chronic venous insufficiency--are described. Consecutively, the ways of possible therapy are shown.", "contents": "[Pathophysiology and clinical aspects of the venous low-pressure system]. The pathophysiology especially of the venous low-pressure system, the venous muscle pump, and the pressure-volume relation is represented. The clinical manifestations--varicous veins-varicophlebitis, phlebothrombosis, and chronic venous insufficiency--are described. Consecutively, the ways of possible therapy are shown.", "PMID": 437977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3773", "title": "[Surgical therapy of venous circulatory disorders].", "content": "After a short historical review of the operative methods concerning the varicotomy some principles of the modern varicotomy were pointed out which should be noticed in case of a so-called \"standard operating technique\". In accordance with the opinion of most of the authors it has turned out that the insufficient main trunk varices together with eventually occurring dobbled cords of veins should be extracted, whereby in the area of orifice of the long saphenous vein (venae saphena magna) all side branch veins are ligated after proper preparation. Larger side branches have to be post-sclerosed or interrupted by stab incision. The perforator vein (venae perforantes) in the area of the Cockett group (communicantes) and the arcade veins must not be neglected, otherwise real recidivation could be the result. Furthermore it is evident for the operation that the number of incisions has to be kept as minor as possible and even the length of incision should be reduced to a minimum, for short incisions normally heal up without any scars. The performance of such a satisfying cosmetic surgery is absolutely conditioned by corresponding instrument.", "contents": "[Surgical therapy of venous circulatory disorders]. After a short historical review of the operative methods concerning the varicotomy some principles of the modern varicotomy were pointed out which should be noticed in case of a so-called \"standard operating technique\". In accordance with the opinion of most of the authors it has turned out that the insufficient main trunk varices together with eventually occurring dobbled cords of veins should be extracted, whereby in the area of orifice of the long saphenous vein (venae saphena magna) all side branch veins are ligated after proper preparation. Larger side branches have to be post-sclerosed or interrupted by stab incision. The perforator vein (venae perforantes) in the area of the Cockett group (communicantes) and the arcade veins must not be neglected, otherwise real recidivation could be the result. Furthermore it is evident for the operation that the number of incisions has to be kept as minor as possible and even the length of incision should be reduced to a minimum, for short incisions normally heal up without any scars. The performance of such a satisfying cosmetic surgery is absolutely conditioned by corresponding instrument.", "PMID": 437979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3774", "title": "[Drug therapy in venous circulatory disorders of the leg].", "content": "There are quite a great variety of drugs available for treating the disorders of venous blood flow and its consequences. At this point it may be cautioned against applying out of each group a representative in form of a combination of drugs. Undesired changing effects must be taken into account even though adequate results are not yet submitted for all substances. The potency of anticoagulants is known by the numerous antiinflammatories which mainly is based on the changes of protein binding. Drug therapy of the disorders of the venous blood circulation alone does not suffice, since it cannot cancel the morphological changes. It is a part of a more comprehensive therapy and should support the physical and surgical procedures.", "contents": "[Drug therapy in venous circulatory disorders of the leg]. There are quite a great variety of drugs available for treating the disorders of venous blood flow and its consequences. At this point it may be cautioned against applying out of each group a representative in form of a combination of drugs. Undesired changing effects must be taken into account even though adequate results are not yet submitted for all substances. The potency of anticoagulants is known by the numerous antiinflammatories which mainly is based on the changes of protein binding. Drug therapy of the disorders of the venous blood circulation alone does not suffice, since it cannot cancel the morphological changes. It is a part of a more comprehensive therapy and should support the physical and surgical procedures.", "PMID": 437980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3775", "title": "[Clinical forms of venous leg ulcers].", "content": "The different clinical features of venous leg ulcers have different etiology and pathogenesis, and therefore require different therapy. One should distinguish between ulcerations with origin in the external or internal fascia; also between periphlebitic, engirdling, \"blow-out\", hypodermitic and siderosclerotic ulcers, and between ulcers due to erosion or venous stasis. The differentiation into leg ulcers caused by rheumatoid disease, hematological disorders and organic diseases of large and small vessels is of importance for the proper treatment.", "contents": "[Clinical forms of venous leg ulcers]. The different clinical features of venous leg ulcers have different etiology and pathogenesis, and therefore require different therapy. One should distinguish between ulcerations with origin in the external or internal fascia; also between periphlebitic, engirdling, \"blow-out\", hypodermitic and siderosclerotic ulcers, and between ulcers due to erosion or venous stasis. The differentiation into leg ulcers caused by rheumatoid disease, hematological disorders and organic diseases of large and small vessels is of importance for the proper treatment.", "PMID": 437981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3776", "title": "[Compression therapy].", "content": "Elastic support is of primary importance for the treatment of chronic venous stasis. Elastic pressure bandages are helpful to remove edema and to restore venous reflux. Elastic pressure stocking can, if properly applied, maintain the improvement and avoid new swelling. The compression is standardized in four different degrees each having its own indication. Bedstockings should be used of patients confined to bed in order to prevent thrombophlebitis. Inflated supportive devices with changing air pressure have their own limited application.", "contents": "[Compression therapy]. Elastic support is of primary importance for the treatment of chronic venous stasis. Elastic pressure bandages are helpful to remove edema and to restore venous reflux. Elastic pressure stocking can, if properly applied, maintain the improvement and avoid new swelling. The compression is standardized in four different degrees each having its own indication. Bedstockings should be used of patients confined to bed in order to prevent thrombophlebitis. Inflated supportive devices with changing air pressure have their own limited application.", "PMID": 437982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3777", "title": "[Local therapy of ulcers].", "content": "The allergic contact dermatitis caused by iatrogenic sensibilisation represents one of the major problems involved in the local therapy of skin diseases due to chronic venous insufficiency. Among other forms of treatment it is suggested to use a local therapy without potential allergens in combination with compression therapy.", "contents": "[Local therapy of ulcers]. The allergic contact dermatitis caused by iatrogenic sensibilisation represents one of the major problems involved in the local therapy of skin diseases due to chronic venous insufficiency. Among other forms of treatment it is suggested to use a local therapy without potential allergens in combination with compression therapy.", "PMID": 437983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3778", "title": "[Erythema gyratum repens (Gammel's syndrome)].", "content": "A case of erythema gyratum repens is reported in 78 year old woman. The particularly typical eruption, mainly affecting the trunk, was associated with a squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. The paraneoplastic dermatosis cleared after radiotherapy of the cancer.", "contents": "[Erythema gyratum repens (Gammel's syndrome)]. A case of erythema gyratum repens is reported in 78 year old woman. The particularly typical eruption, mainly affecting the trunk, was associated with a squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. The paraneoplastic dermatosis cleared after radiotherapy of the cancer.", "PMID": 437984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3779", "title": "Cytochemical observations of two distinct acid phosphatase-reactive structures in anterior latissimus dorsi muscle of the chicken.", "content": "Acid phosphatase activity has been localized cytochemically in the avian anterior latissimus dorsi muscle in two distinct structures, the sarcoplasmic reticulum and membrane-limited dense bodies. Cross and longitudinal sections confirmed that the reaction product was membrane-bound. Acid phosphatase activity was observed in the longitudinal tubules of the sarcoplasmic reticulum in the region of the I band and in dense bodies located along the length of the fibre just beneath the sarcolemma and between the myofibrils. This dual localization is discussed in relationship to previous cytochemical and zonal centrifugation evidence for more than one acid phosphatase-containing organelle in skeletal muscle.", "contents": "Cytochemical observations of two distinct acid phosphatase-reactive structures in anterior latissimus dorsi muscle of the chicken. Acid phosphatase activity has been localized cytochemically in the avian anterior latissimus dorsi muscle in two distinct structures, the sarcoplasmic reticulum and membrane-limited dense bodies. Cross and longitudinal sections confirmed that the reaction product was membrane-bound. Acid phosphatase activity was observed in the longitudinal tubules of the sarcoplasmic reticulum in the region of the I band and in dense bodies located along the length of the fibre just beneath the sarcolemma and between the myofibrils. This dual localization is discussed in relationship to previous cytochemical and zonal centrifugation evidence for more than one acid phosphatase-containing organelle in skeletal muscle.", "PMID": 437998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3780", "title": "Histochemical studies on genetical control of hormonal enzyme inducibility in the mouse. III. Beta-glucuronidase distribution pattern of epididymis in different genotypes.", "content": "This article reports the application of Hayashi's histochemical technique for beta-glucuronidase to mouse epididymis. A methodological study, which established optimal conditions for demonstrating the enzyme in this organ, is reported. The distribution pattern of beta-glucuronidase is described and correlated with previous data for alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase. Differences between sites of granular and diffuse reaction product for these two enzymes are recorded. Possible interpretations of these findings in terms of intracellular localization of enzymes are discussed. Studies on different strains reveal regular differences in histochemical organization between mice of various genotypes. Histochemical data which imply androgen inducibility of beta-glucuronidase in mouse epididymis are preliminary noted.", "contents": "Histochemical studies on genetical control of hormonal enzyme inducibility in the mouse. III. Beta-glucuronidase distribution pattern of epididymis in different genotypes. This article reports the application of Hayashi's histochemical technique for beta-glucuronidase to mouse epididymis. A methodological study, which established optimal conditions for demonstrating the enzyme in this organ, is reported. The distribution pattern of beta-glucuronidase is described and correlated with previous data for alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase. Differences between sites of granular and diffuse reaction product for these two enzymes are recorded. Possible interpretations of these findings in terms of intracellular localization of enzymes are discussed. Studies on different strains reveal regular differences in histochemical organization between mice of various genotypes. Histochemical data which imply androgen inducibility of beta-glucuronidase in mouse epididymis are preliminary noted.", "PMID": 437997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3781", "title": "Oxidative enzymes in the urinary apparatus of several freshwater fishes.", "content": "The distribution and activities of several oxidative enzymes in the urinary apparatus of five freshwater fish species (river lamprey, lobe finned eel, Prussian carp, rainbow trout and three-spined stickleback) have been studied. Species were selected from three main taxonomic groups: Cyclostomata, Polypterini, Teleostei. Distinctly positive enzyme reactions were only found in the tubular elements of the kidney and the collecting duct-archinephric duct system, with the exception of the generally weak staining intensities of lactate dehydrogenase. The distal tubule normally showed strong to very strong reactions for most of the enzymes investigated. In the epithelial cells of the collecting tubule-collecting duct system, stronger reactions were observed for most of the mitochondrial-bound enzymes, especially succinate dehydrogenase and NADH-diaphorase. For these enzymes, the cells of the archinephric duct reacted strongly positive in Lampetra, Carassius and Gasterosteus. The enzyme patterns of various types of urinary tubules and ducts are compared with results of several morphological studies. In addition, the histochemical findings are discussed in relation to kidney function in different vertebrate groups.", "contents": "Oxidative enzymes in the urinary apparatus of several freshwater fishes. The distribution and activities of several oxidative enzymes in the urinary apparatus of five freshwater fish species (river lamprey, lobe finned eel, Prussian carp, rainbow trout and three-spined stickleback) have been studied. Species were selected from three main taxonomic groups: Cyclostomata, Polypterini, Teleostei. Distinctly positive enzyme reactions were only found in the tubular elements of the kidney and the collecting duct-archinephric duct system, with the exception of the generally weak staining intensities of lactate dehydrogenase. The distal tubule normally showed strong to very strong reactions for most of the enzymes investigated. In the epithelial cells of the collecting tubule-collecting duct system, stronger reactions were observed for most of the mitochondrial-bound enzymes, especially succinate dehydrogenase and NADH-diaphorase. For these enzymes, the cells of the archinephric duct reacted strongly positive in Lampetra, Carassius and Gasterosteus. The enzyme patterns of various types of urinary tubules and ducts are compared with results of several morphological studies. In addition, the histochemical findings are discussed in relation to kidney function in different vertebrate groups.", "PMID": 437999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3782", "title": "[Therapy of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (author's transl)].", "content": "Immediate operative reposition of traumatic eardrum perforations has been found to give better morphological results when compared with spontaneous healing. The operative technique and results of healing in 32 patients treated at the ENT Department, University Hospital, Z\u00fcrich, are discussed.", "contents": "[Therapy of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (author's transl)]. Immediate operative reposition of traumatic eardrum perforations has been found to give better morphological results when compared with spontaneous healing. The operative technique and results of healing in 32 patients treated at the ENT Department, University Hospital, Z\u00fcrich, are discussed.", "PMID": 438000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3783", "title": "A model of the effects of respiration on left ventricular performance.", "content": "We have investigated the interaction of left ventricular afterload and right-heart volume on left ventricular performance. By utilizing a right-heart bypassed heart-lung preparation, we have been able to control independently each factor. We have previously suggested that the major influences of the inspiratory decrease in pleural pressure in decreasing left ventricular stroke volume (LVSV) may be via the inspiratory increases in left-heart afterload and right-heart volume (RHV). Thus, our preparation serves as a model to study in detail the specific effects on the left ventricle of changes that are induced by respiration. Our results show that increases in transmural (relative to pleural pressure) aortic pressure (Pao) caused an increased left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), and that the effect of equivalent increases in Pao was greater when RHV was greater. Increase in RHV had minimal effects at low volume, but resulted in large increases in LVEDP at large RHV. These effects were markedly attenuated after pericardiectomy. Rapid increases in either RHV or Pao produced transient falls in LVSV. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that increases in both right-heart volume and LV afterload contribute to the inspiratory decrease in LVSV and increase in LVEDP.", "contents": "A model of the effects of respiration on left ventricular performance. We have investigated the interaction of left ventricular afterload and right-heart volume on left ventricular performance. By utilizing a right-heart bypassed heart-lung preparation, we have been able to control independently each factor. We have previously suggested that the major influences of the inspiratory decrease in pleural pressure in decreasing left ventricular stroke volume (LVSV) may be via the inspiratory increases in left-heart afterload and right-heart volume (RHV). Thus, our preparation serves as a model to study in detail the specific effects on the left ventricle of changes that are induced by respiration. Our results show that increases in transmural (relative to pleural pressure) aortic pressure (Pao) caused an increased left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), and that the effect of equivalent increases in Pao was greater when RHV was greater. Increase in RHV had minimal effects at low volume, but resulted in large increases in LVEDP at large RHV. These effects were markedly attenuated after pericardiectomy. Rapid increases in either RHV or Pao produced transient falls in LVSV. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that increases in both right-heart volume and LV afterload contribute to the inspiratory decrease in LVSV and increase in LVEDP.", "PMID": 438006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3784", "title": "A continuum mechanics analysis of pulmonary vascular interdependence in isolated dog lobes.", "content": "The pressure-diameter (PD) behavior of intact pulmonary vessels was measured roentgenographically at several fixed deflation transpulmonary pressures (Ptp). At any constant vascular pressure (Pv), the intact-vessel diameter was larger for higher Ptp. The behavior of the parenchyma was described by a nonlinear analysis. An excised-vessel PD behavior was computed which was consistent with both nonlinear parenchymal behavior and measured intact-vessel PD behavior. Estimates of Px', the difference between the perivascular pressure and the pleural pressure, as a function of Ptp and Pv were obtained. For physiological values of Pv, mean values of Px' for arteries were -1 cmH2O at Ptp of 4 cmH20 and decreased almost linearly to -15 cmH20 at Ptp of 25 cmH2O. Veins showed a similar behavior, but Px' was more positive. Increasing Pv raised Px' and decreasing Pv lowered Px' at all values of Ptp. These results indicate that the interdependence effect is small at functional residual capacity, increases with lung inflation, and is greater for arteries than veins.", "contents": "A continuum mechanics analysis of pulmonary vascular interdependence in isolated dog lobes. The pressure-diameter (PD) behavior of intact pulmonary vessels was measured roentgenographically at several fixed deflation transpulmonary pressures (Ptp). At any constant vascular pressure (Pv), the intact-vessel diameter was larger for higher Ptp. The behavior of the parenchyma was described by a nonlinear analysis. An excised-vessel PD behavior was computed which was consistent with both nonlinear parenchymal behavior and measured intact-vessel PD behavior. Estimates of Px', the difference between the perivascular pressure and the pleural pressure, as a function of Ptp and Pv were obtained. For physiological values of Pv, mean values of Px' for arteries were -1 cmH2O at Ptp of 4 cmH20 and decreased almost linearly to -15 cmH20 at Ptp of 25 cmH2O. Veins showed a similar behavior, but Px' was more positive. Increasing Pv raised Px' and decreasing Pv lowered Px' at all values of Ptp. These results indicate that the interdependence effect is small at functional residual capacity, increases with lung inflation, and is greater for arteries than veins.", "PMID": 438007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3785", "title": "Circulatory regulation during exercise in different ambient temperatures.", "content": "Three relatively fit subjects performed duplicate 20- to 25-min cycle ergometer exercise bouts at moderate and heavy intensities (40% and 70% Vo2 max) in ambient temperatures of 20, 26, and 36 degrees C. They approached a steady state in internal body temperature (Tes) in all but the heavy exercise in the heat, where Tes rose consistently, averaging 38.84 degrees C at the termination of exercise. Cardiac output (Q), estimated by a rebreathing technique, was proportional to Vo2 and independent of the body temperatures, except during the lower exercise intensity in the heart, where Q averaged 1.31 . min -1 higher throughout. In any environment, forearm blood flow was linearly related to Tes above the Tes threshold for vasodilation, but during heavy exercise in the heat this relationship was severely attenuated above a Tes around 38.0 degrees C, when forearm blood flow exceeded 15 ml.min -1 .100 ml -1. Plasma volume decreases during exercise were primarily a function of the intensity of exercise. During heavy exercise in the heat the relative vasconstriction contributes to the maintenance of an adequate stroke volume preventing a fall in Q. In this case, circulatory regulation has precedence over temperature regulation.", "contents": "Circulatory regulation during exercise in different ambient temperatures. Three relatively fit subjects performed duplicate 20- to 25-min cycle ergometer exercise bouts at moderate and heavy intensities (40% and 70% Vo2 max) in ambient temperatures of 20, 26, and 36 degrees C. They approached a steady state in internal body temperature (Tes) in all but the heavy exercise in the heat, where Tes rose consistently, averaging 38.84 degrees C at the termination of exercise. Cardiac output (Q), estimated by a rebreathing technique, was proportional to Vo2 and independent of the body temperatures, except during the lower exercise intensity in the heart, where Q averaged 1.31 . min -1 higher throughout. In any environment, forearm blood flow was linearly related to Tes above the Tes threshold for vasodilation, but during heavy exercise in the heat this relationship was severely attenuated above a Tes around 38.0 degrees C, when forearm blood flow exceeded 15 ml.min -1 .100 ml -1. Plasma volume decreases during exercise were primarily a function of the intensity of exercise. During heavy exercise in the heat the relative vasconstriction contributes to the maintenance of an adequate stroke volume preventing a fall in Q. In this case, circulatory regulation has precedence over temperature regulation.", "PMID": 438008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3786", "title": "Reversal of 2-deoxyglucose inhibition of serotonin uptake in isolated guinea pig lung.", "content": "The effect of various substrates on the rate of uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) from the pulmonary circulation was studied with isolated guinea pig lungs. Lungs were ventilated and were perfused with an electrolyte solution in a recirculating system. Uptake of serotonin was calculated from the rate of disappearance of [14C]serotonin from the perfusate. Serotonin uptake was inhibited by approximately 40% when 5 mM 2-deoxyglucose was substituted for glucose in the pulmonary perfusate. The inhibition due to 2-deoxyglucose was reversed by addition to the perfusate of pyruvate, lactate, acetate, alanine, beta-hydroxybutyrate, palmitate, or glycerol. Fructose ans succinate were less efficient substrates while no significant effect was noted with L-glycerol 1-phosphate or L-phenylalanine. These results indicate that a wide variety of metabolizable substrates can be utilized by the pulmonary endothelium to support uptake of serotonin.", "contents": "Reversal of 2-deoxyglucose inhibition of serotonin uptake in isolated guinea pig lung. The effect of various substrates on the rate of uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) from the pulmonary circulation was studied with isolated guinea pig lungs. Lungs were ventilated and were perfused with an electrolyte solution in a recirculating system. Uptake of serotonin was calculated from the rate of disappearance of [14C]serotonin from the perfusate. Serotonin uptake was inhibited by approximately 40% when 5 mM 2-deoxyglucose was substituted for glucose in the pulmonary perfusate. The inhibition due to 2-deoxyglucose was reversed by addition to the perfusate of pyruvate, lactate, acetate, alanine, beta-hydroxybutyrate, palmitate, or glycerol. Fructose ans succinate were less efficient substrates while no significant effect was noted with L-glycerol 1-phosphate or L-phenylalanine. These results indicate that a wide variety of metabolizable substrates can be utilized by the pulmonary endothelium to support uptake of serotonin.", "PMID": 438010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3787", "title": "Muscle strength and speed of movement in relation to age and muscle morphology.", "content": "Maximum values for isometric strength, dynamic strength, and speed of movement (MEV) in the quadriceps muscle were measured in 114 male subjects who were between 11 and 70 yr. Biopsy samples were taken from the quadriceps muscle in 51 of the subjects (22-65 yr. old). Isometric and dynamic strength increased up to the third decade, remained almost constant to the fifth decade, and then decreased with increasing age. However, no measurable external atrophy of the quadriceps muscle, explaining the decline in strength, could be seen in old age. Histochemical changes in the muscle tissue such as decreased proportion of type II fibers and a selective atrophy of type II fibers, were seen with increasing age. The strength decline in old age was also observed to correlate significantly with the type II fiber area. Multiple regression analyses indicated, however, that mechanisms other than the type II fiber atrophy might be responsible for the decline in strength performance during aging. The implications of these findings are discussed.", "contents": "Muscle strength and speed of movement in relation to age and muscle morphology. Maximum values for isometric strength, dynamic strength, and speed of movement (MEV) in the quadriceps muscle were measured in 114 male subjects who were between 11 and 70 yr. Biopsy samples were taken from the quadriceps muscle in 51 of the subjects (22-65 yr. old). Isometric and dynamic strength increased up to the third decade, remained almost constant to the fifth decade, and then decreased with increasing age. However, no measurable external atrophy of the quadriceps muscle, explaining the decline in strength, could be seen in old age. Histochemical changes in the muscle tissue such as decreased proportion of type II fibers and a selective atrophy of type II fibers, were seen with increasing age. The strength decline in old age was also observed to correlate significantly with the type II fiber area. Multiple regression analyses indicated, however, that mechanisms other than the type II fiber atrophy might be responsible for the decline in strength performance during aging. The implications of these findings are discussed.", "PMID": 438011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3788", "title": "Responses of forearm blood flow to graded leg exercise in man.", "content": "To test whether the cutaneous vascular responses to exercise are influenced by the level of work, three strategies were followed. In each, forearm blood flow and esophageal temperature were measured throughout. In part I, the forearm blood flow-internal temperature relationships from separate sessions of steady-state exercise at different loads were compared. In part II, work load was varied between 50 and 150 W. Work load was raised or lowered 50 W every 5 min over 60-75 min. The third strategy was to examine the immediate change in forearm blood flow accompanying rapid, large increments or decrements in work load. The results do not support a graded response of the cutaneous circulation to exercise. In both the first and second protocols above, the relationship of forearm blood flow to internal temperature was not measurably altered by work load. Multiple linear regression analysis failed to reveal a consistent role for work load in part II. In the third protocol, there was no consistent or sustained response to an abrupt change in work load. Thus over the range of work loads used in this study there appears to be no major role for the level of work in the regulation of forearm skin blood flow other than through the effect on internal temperature.", "contents": "Responses of forearm blood flow to graded leg exercise in man. To test whether the cutaneous vascular responses to exercise are influenced by the level of work, three strategies were followed. In each, forearm blood flow and esophageal temperature were measured throughout. In part I, the forearm blood flow-internal temperature relationships from separate sessions of steady-state exercise at different loads were compared. In part II, work load was varied between 50 and 150 W. Work load was raised or lowered 50 W every 5 min over 60-75 min. The third strategy was to examine the immediate change in forearm blood flow accompanying rapid, large increments or decrements in work load. The results do not support a graded response of the cutaneous circulation to exercise. In both the first and second protocols above, the relationship of forearm blood flow to internal temperature was not measurably altered by work load. Multiple linear regression analysis failed to reveal a consistent role for work load in part II. In the third protocol, there was no consistent or sustained response to an abrupt change in work load. Thus over the range of work loads used in this study there appears to be no major role for the level of work in the regulation of forearm skin blood flow other than through the effect on internal temperature.", "PMID": 438012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3789", "title": "Flow-volume curves of excised right and left rabbit lungs.", "content": "Static pressure-volume (PV) curves and flow-volume (VV) curves of excised right and left rabbit lungs obtained by forced and passive deflation were compared. Deflation PV curves in which the volume was expressed as either ml/lung weight or percent total lung capacity were nearly identical between right and left lungs. Descending limbs of the forced VV curves in which the flow divided by vital capacity (VC) was plotted against %VC generally agreed between right and left lungs, although peak flow tended to be higher in left lungs. However, the flow obtained during passive deflation was higher in left lungs over most of the deflation suggesting that the resistance of proximal airways per unit volume is lower in left than in right lungs.", "contents": "Flow-volume curves of excised right and left rabbit lungs. Static pressure-volume (PV) curves and flow-volume (VV) curves of excised right and left rabbit lungs obtained by forced and passive deflation were compared. Deflation PV curves in which the volume was expressed as either ml/lung weight or percent total lung capacity were nearly identical between right and left lungs. Descending limbs of the forced VV curves in which the flow divided by vital capacity (VC) was plotted against %VC generally agreed between right and left lungs, although peak flow tended to be higher in left lungs. However, the flow obtained during passive deflation was higher in left lungs over most of the deflation suggesting that the resistance of proximal airways per unit volume is lower in left than in right lungs.", "PMID": 438013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3790", "title": "Role of respiratory heat exchange in production of exercise-induced asthma.", "content": "We have hypothesized that it is the total heat flux in the tracheobronchial tree during exercise that determines the degree of postexertional obstruction in asthma, and have developed quanititative expressions that relate these two events. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the observed responses to exercise, while our subjects inhaled dry air at various temperatures ranging from subzero to 80 degrees C in a random fashion, to those that we predicted would occur based upon calculations of respiratory heat exchange. We further determined if heat could be transferred from the inspired air to the mucosa so as to offset evaporative losses from the airways. The observed responses fell as air temperature was increased from -11 to +37 degrees C and exactly matched theoretical predictions. Above 37 degrees C, the observed response exceeded predictions, indicating that it was not possible to provide sufficient heat per se in the air to offset the vaporization of water. However, when small amounts of water vapor were added to the inspirate at high temperatures, bronchospasm was virtually abolished and the response again closely matched theoretical expectations. We conclude that the magnitude of exercise-induced asthma is directly proportional to the thermal load placed on the airways and that this reaction is quantifiable in terms of respiratory heat exchange.", "contents": "Role of respiratory heat exchange in production of exercise-induced asthma. We have hypothesized that it is the total heat flux in the tracheobronchial tree during exercise that determines the degree of postexertional obstruction in asthma, and have developed quanititative expressions that relate these two events. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the observed responses to exercise, while our subjects inhaled dry air at various temperatures ranging from subzero to 80 degrees C in a random fashion, to those that we predicted would occur based upon calculations of respiratory heat exchange. We further determined if heat could be transferred from the inspired air to the mucosa so as to offset evaporative losses from the airways. The observed responses fell as air temperature was increased from -11 to +37 degrees C and exactly matched theoretical predictions. Above 37 degrees C, the observed response exceeded predictions, indicating that it was not possible to provide sufficient heat per se in the air to offset the vaporization of water. However, when small amounts of water vapor were added to the inspirate at high temperatures, bronchospasm was virtually abolished and the response again closely matched theoretical expectations. We conclude that the magnitude of exercise-induced asthma is directly proportional to the thermal load placed on the airways and that this reaction is quantifiable in terms of respiratory heat exchange.", "PMID": 438014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3791", "title": "Esophageal temperature during exercise in asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects.", "content": "We measured the temperature in the rectum and two esophageal sites (retrocardiac and retrotracheal) during exercise in eight asthmatic and six normal subjects while they breathed air at subfreezing, ambient, and body conditions. Various aspects of pulmonary mechanics were recorded before and after exercise. The asthmatic subjects developed the greatest airway obstruction following exercise with cold air and no response at body conditions. There were no changes in pulmonary mechanics in the postexercise period in the normal individuals with any of the inspired air conditions. Despite these divergent mechanical responses retrotracheal temperatures fell by the same magnitude below core values in both groups of subjects, indicating that identical degrees of airway cooling occurred. We conclude that rather than having a defect in the ability to condition inspired air, asthmatic subjects are more responsive to the effects of incompletely conditioned air.", "contents": "Esophageal temperature during exercise in asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects. We measured the temperature in the rectum and two esophageal sites (retrocardiac and retrotracheal) during exercise in eight asthmatic and six normal subjects while they breathed air at subfreezing, ambient, and body conditions. Various aspects of pulmonary mechanics were recorded before and after exercise. The asthmatic subjects developed the greatest airway obstruction following exercise with cold air and no response at body conditions. There were no changes in pulmonary mechanics in the postexercise period in the normal individuals with any of the inspired air conditions. Despite these divergent mechanical responses retrotracheal temperatures fell by the same magnitude below core values in both groups of subjects, indicating that identical degrees of airway cooling occurred. We conclude that rather than having a defect in the ability to condition inspired air, asthmatic subjects are more responsive to the effects of incompletely conditioned air.", "PMID": 438016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3792", "title": "Body temperature and ventilatory responses to CO2 during chronic respiratory acidosis.", "content": "During acute hypercapnia (5% carbon dioxide) in resting conscious dogs, ventilation (Ve) attained a new level above control within 5 min, but rectal temperature decreased gradually to reach a steady state lower than control after 40-60 min. At 2 days of breathing 5% carbon dioxide, Ve remained elevated, as in acute hypercapnia, but Paco2 increased and the threshold of the ventilatory response shifted to a higher Paco2. By 2 days of hypercapnia, rectal temperature (Tr) had returned to normal, reflecting an alteration of hypothalamic temperature control that might be expected to result in enhanced respiratory drive. Surprisingly, despite blood acid-base compensation between 2 and 14 days of hypercapnia, Ve did not decrease, whereas Paco2 decreased to the level observed during acute hypercapnia, and the threshold of the ventilatory response returned to normal. Therefore, at 14 days of respiratory acidosis, acid-based compensation resulting from increase in bicarbonate was not associated with reduced respiratory drive. This result could not be accounted for on the basis of a temperature mechanism because temperature adaptation occurred earlier.", "contents": "Body temperature and ventilatory responses to CO2 during chronic respiratory acidosis. During acute hypercapnia (5% carbon dioxide) in resting conscious dogs, ventilation (Ve) attained a new level above control within 5 min, but rectal temperature decreased gradually to reach a steady state lower than control after 40-60 min. At 2 days of breathing 5% carbon dioxide, Ve remained elevated, as in acute hypercapnia, but Paco2 increased and the threshold of the ventilatory response shifted to a higher Paco2. By 2 days of hypercapnia, rectal temperature (Tr) had returned to normal, reflecting an alteration of hypothalamic temperature control that might be expected to result in enhanced respiratory drive. Surprisingly, despite blood acid-base compensation between 2 and 14 days of hypercapnia, Ve did not decrease, whereas Paco2 decreased to the level observed during acute hypercapnia, and the threshold of the ventilatory response returned to normal. Therefore, at 14 days of respiratory acidosis, acid-based compensation resulting from increase in bicarbonate was not associated with reduced respiratory drive. This result could not be accounted for on the basis of a temperature mechanism because temperature adaptation occurred earlier.", "PMID": 438017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3793", "title": "Pulmonary microvascular response to hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation, and recovery.", "content": "We studied the effect of hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation, and recovery on the pulmonary microcirculation. We used lung lymph flow (QL) and lymph-to-plasma protein ratio as sensitive indices of transvascular fluid filtration rate and protein permeability. We measured pulmonary vascular pressures, cardiac output, blood gases, lymph flow, and lymph and plasma proteins before and during a 2-h period of shock, a 3-h period of resuscitation, and a 72-h period of recovery, in nine unanesthetized sheep with chronic lung lymph fistula. We found a 30% decrease in QL during early shock as animals were bled into bags containing an acetate citrate dextrose solution until aortic pressure was 50 Torr. QL gradually increased to or exceeded base line in five of nine animals during late shock as pulmonary vascula resistance increased by 250%. During the 3-h resuscitation period, mean QL increased by 110%, with the lymph-to-plasma protein ratio being significantly decreased, indicating no protein permeability change. In five of nine studies, lymph became visible bloody. The increased QL and lymph RBCs were felt to be secondary to an elevation in microvascular pressure. During the recovery period, pressures and QL returned to base line.", "contents": "Pulmonary microvascular response to hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation, and recovery. We studied the effect of hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation, and recovery on the pulmonary microcirculation. We used lung lymph flow (QL) and lymph-to-plasma protein ratio as sensitive indices of transvascular fluid filtration rate and protein permeability. We measured pulmonary vascular pressures, cardiac output, blood gases, lymph flow, and lymph and plasma proteins before and during a 2-h period of shock, a 3-h period of resuscitation, and a 72-h period of recovery, in nine unanesthetized sheep with chronic lung lymph fistula. We found a 30% decrease in QL during early shock as animals were bled into bags containing an acetate citrate dextrose solution until aortic pressure was 50 Torr. QL gradually increased to or exceeded base line in five of nine animals during late shock as pulmonary vascula resistance increased by 250%. During the 3-h resuscitation period, mean QL increased by 110%, with the lymph-to-plasma protein ratio being significantly decreased, indicating no protein permeability change. In five of nine studies, lymph became visible bloody. The increased QL and lymph RBCs were felt to be secondary to an elevation in microvascular pressure. During the recovery period, pressures and QL returned to base line.", "PMID": 438018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3794", "title": "Effect of pentobarbital anesthesia on rheology and transport of canine tracheal mucus.", "content": "Tracheal mucus samples were collected from six tracheostomized dogs before and after induction of pentobarbital anesthesia. The dynamic mechanical properties of the mucus were determined by the magnetic microrheometer technique. In 15 experiments, the mean value of elasticity at 1 rad/s rose from 67 dyn/cm2 before anesthesia to 212 dyn/cm2 in the period 15-90 min after induction. At the same time, mean viscosity at 1 rad/s rose from 24 to 79 P. The mucociliary transportability of some of the mucus samples was assayed by means of in vitro frog palate technique. In 10 experiments, the relative transport rate for dog tracheal mucus went from 98% of frog palate control befor anesthesia to 79% during pentobarbital anesthesia. A negative relationship between from palate transport rate and mucus elasticity was found. A negative correlation between transport and mucus viscosity at constant elasticity was also discovered. Finally, the mucus collection rate was reduced by a factor of about 8 during anesthesia, suggesting a reduction in the average depth of mucus.", "contents": "Effect of pentobarbital anesthesia on rheology and transport of canine tracheal mucus. Tracheal mucus samples were collected from six tracheostomized dogs before and after induction of pentobarbital anesthesia. The dynamic mechanical properties of the mucus were determined by the magnetic microrheometer technique. In 15 experiments, the mean value of elasticity at 1 rad/s rose from 67 dyn/cm2 before anesthesia to 212 dyn/cm2 in the period 15-90 min after induction. At the same time, mean viscosity at 1 rad/s rose from 24 to 79 P. The mucociliary transportability of some of the mucus samples was assayed by means of in vitro frog palate technique. In 10 experiments, the relative transport rate for dog tracheal mucus went from 98% of frog palate control befor anesthesia to 79% during pentobarbital anesthesia. A negative relationship between from palate transport rate and mucus elasticity was found. A negative correlation between transport and mucus viscosity at constant elasticity was also discovered. Finally, the mucus collection rate was reduced by a factor of about 8 during anesthesia, suggesting a reduction in the average depth of mucus.", "PMID": 438019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3795", "title": "A comparison of exercise responses in stairclimbing and cycling.", "content": "A free-paced 14.8-m stairclimb was compared to cycle ergometry at equivalent power outputs in six normal subjects. Heart rate (HR), inspiratory flow (VI) andd oxygen saturation in arterial blood (Sao2) were analyzed continuously, carbon dioxide output (Vco2) and oxygen consumption (Vo2) for the duration of exercise, and rebreathing mixed venous carbon dioxide pressure (Pvco2), capillary blood gases, and lactates at the completion of exercise. The average power output was 1,394 kpm/min sustained for 54.8 s. The HR and Vo2 responses were not significantly different between the two forms of exercise. VI was 20.3% less stairclimbing (P smaller than 0.005). A fall in Sao2 of 31.1% +/- 2.7) occurred in stairclimbing compared to 1.2% (+/- 2.1) in cycle ergometry. Differences in Sao2 between stairclimbing and cycling correlated with differences in VI (r = 0.80); falls in Sao2 could be prevented by overbreathing during stairclimbing or induced by controlled underbreathing during cycling. Vco2 and postexercise lactate levels were less stairclimbing (P smaller than 0.005 and P smaller than 0.01), as were Pvco2 measurements. The findings are consistent with a lower CO2 flow to the lung during stairclimbing than in cycling, which results in a lower alveolar ventilation and a consequent fall in Sao2.", "contents": "A comparison of exercise responses in stairclimbing and cycling. A free-paced 14.8-m stairclimb was compared to cycle ergometry at equivalent power outputs in six normal subjects. Heart rate (HR), inspiratory flow (VI) andd oxygen saturation in arterial blood (Sao2) were analyzed continuously, carbon dioxide output (Vco2) and oxygen consumption (Vo2) for the duration of exercise, and rebreathing mixed venous carbon dioxide pressure (Pvco2), capillary blood gases, and lactates at the completion of exercise. The average power output was 1,394 kpm/min sustained for 54.8 s. The HR and Vo2 responses were not significantly different between the two forms of exercise. VI was 20.3% less stairclimbing (P smaller than 0.005). A fall in Sao2 of 31.1% +/- 2.7) occurred in stairclimbing compared to 1.2% (+/- 2.1) in cycle ergometry. Differences in Sao2 between stairclimbing and cycling correlated with differences in VI (r = 0.80); falls in Sao2 could be prevented by overbreathing during stairclimbing or induced by controlled underbreathing during cycling. Vco2 and postexercise lactate levels were less stairclimbing (P smaller than 0.005 and P smaller than 0.01), as were Pvco2 measurements. The findings are consistent with a lower CO2 flow to the lung during stairclimbing than in cycling, which results in a lower alveolar ventilation and a consequent fall in Sao2.", "PMID": 438020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3796", "title": "Human skin wettedness and evaporative efficiency of sweating.", "content": "Rates of evaporation and sweating were recorded for three acclimatized male subjects in hot humid conditions, the ambient parameters of which were set so that the various imposed evaporative rates required the same skin wettedness at different levels of sweating. Rectal and skin temperatures were measured. Results showed that during steady state occurring during the 2nd h of exposure each subject reached the required evaporative rate by means of increases in skin wettedness regardless of the level of sweating; the sweat evaporative efficiency, defined as the ratio between evaporative rate and sweat rate, decreased as skin wettedness increased, in a range between 0.74 and 1.0 Sweat efficiency fell to 0.67 for fully wet skin. The body temperatures did not increase with time if skin wettedness was less than unity. Evaporative heat transfer coefficient (he), maximum evaporative capacity, and wettedness were estimated on the basis of the observed decrease of sweat efficiency. The relationship between skin wettedness and sweat efficiency was interpreted as a combined effect of differences in local he as well as in local sweat rates.", "contents": "Human skin wettedness and evaporative efficiency of sweating. Rates of evaporation and sweating were recorded for three acclimatized male subjects in hot humid conditions, the ambient parameters of which were set so that the various imposed evaporative rates required the same skin wettedness at different levels of sweating. Rectal and skin temperatures were measured. Results showed that during steady state occurring during the 2nd h of exposure each subject reached the required evaporative rate by means of increases in skin wettedness regardless of the level of sweating; the sweat evaporative efficiency, defined as the ratio between evaporative rate and sweat rate, decreased as skin wettedness increased, in a range between 0.74 and 1.0 Sweat efficiency fell to 0.67 for fully wet skin. The body temperatures did not increase with time if skin wettedness was less than unity. Evaporative heat transfer coefficient (he), maximum evaporative capacity, and wettedness were estimated on the basis of the observed decrease of sweat efficiency. The relationship between skin wettedness and sweat efficiency was interpreted as a combined effect of differences in local he as well as in local sweat rates.", "PMID": 438022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3797", "title": "Pulmonary hypoxic vasoconstriction: not affected by chemical sympathectomy.", "content": "The influence of chemical sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on regional alveolar hypoxic vasconstriction and on global hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction was investigated. In eight dogs a double-lumened endotracheal tube allowed ventilation of one lung with nitrogen as an alveolar hypoxic challenge while ventilation of the other lung with 100% O2 maintained adequate systemic oxygenation. Distribution of perfusion to the two lungs was determined with 133Xe and external counters. Mean perfusion to the test lung was 50.9 +/- 4.9% of total lung perfusion on room air and decreased by 32.4% (P smaller than 0.01) during alveolar hypoxia. Following 6-OHDA the test lung continued to reduce perfusion during alveolar hypoxia by 27.3%. In five dogs global hypoxia induced a 106% increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) prior to 6-OHDA and a 90% increase in PVR after 6-OHDA. After 6-OHDA no rise in PRV or systemic blood pressure occurred in response to tyramine, confirming effective sympathectomy by the 6-OHDA. Thus, sympathectomy with 6-OHDA failed to substantially block regional alveolar hypoxic vasoconstriction or global hypoxic pulmonary vasconstriction.", "contents": "Pulmonary hypoxic vasoconstriction: not affected by chemical sympathectomy. The influence of chemical sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on regional alveolar hypoxic vasconstriction and on global hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction was investigated. In eight dogs a double-lumened endotracheal tube allowed ventilation of one lung with nitrogen as an alveolar hypoxic challenge while ventilation of the other lung with 100% O2 maintained adequate systemic oxygenation. Distribution of perfusion to the two lungs was determined with 133Xe and external counters. Mean perfusion to the test lung was 50.9 +/- 4.9% of total lung perfusion on room air and decreased by 32.4% (P smaller than 0.01) during alveolar hypoxia. Following 6-OHDA the test lung continued to reduce perfusion during alveolar hypoxia by 27.3%. In five dogs global hypoxia induced a 106% increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) prior to 6-OHDA and a 90% increase in PVR after 6-OHDA. After 6-OHDA no rise in PRV or systemic blood pressure occurred in response to tyramine, confirming effective sympathectomy by the 6-OHDA. Thus, sympathectomy with 6-OHDA failed to substantially block regional alveolar hypoxic vasoconstriction or global hypoxic pulmonary vasconstriction.", "PMID": 438023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3798", "title": "Mean alveolar gases and alveolar-arterial gradients in pulmonary patients.", "content": "In view of uncertainties about the best way to estimate mean alveolar gases in patients with ventilation-perfusion inequalities, three different methods were evaluated on 54 patients. 1) O2 and CO2 were recorded by mass spectrometer on an O2 (x)-CO2 (y) diagram. The coordinates at the intersect of the expiratory record with the mixed expired R line (RE) ives the mean alveolar values (PAo2 and PAco2. 2)pa'co2 was calculated with the Bohr equation using a predicted anatomic dead space and PA'o2 was derived with the alveolar equation. 3) End-tidal (ET) P02 were averaged over 1 min at rest in steady state. Mean RET calculated from 3 was identical with RE. Mean values for PAco2, PA'CO2. and PETco2 differed by less that 1 Torr, but the variance was least with the end-tidal method. There was a highly significant correlation between delta aAPco2 using PETco2 and VD/VT, better than with either of the other methods. The end-tidal measurement appears to give the best approximation of mean alveolar gas in pulmonary patients.", "contents": "Mean alveolar gases and alveolar-arterial gradients in pulmonary patients. In view of uncertainties about the best way to estimate mean alveolar gases in patients with ventilation-perfusion inequalities, three different methods were evaluated on 54 patients. 1) O2 and CO2 were recorded by mass spectrometer on an O2 (x)-CO2 (y) diagram. The coordinates at the intersect of the expiratory record with the mixed expired R line (RE) ives the mean alveolar values (PAo2 and PAco2. 2)pa'co2 was calculated with the Bohr equation using a predicted anatomic dead space and PA'o2 was derived with the alveolar equation. 3) End-tidal (ET) P02 were averaged over 1 min at rest in steady state. Mean RET calculated from 3 was identical with RE. Mean values for PAco2, PA'CO2. and PETco2 differed by less that 1 Torr, but the variance was least with the end-tidal method. There was a highly significant correlation between delta aAPco2 using PETco2 and VD/VT, better than with either of the other methods. The end-tidal measurement appears to give the best approximation of mean alveolar gas in pulmonary patients.", "PMID": 438024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3799", "title": "Cardiac responses of dogs to nonsynchronous and heart synchronous whole-body vibration.", "content": "Changes in cardiac function produced by synchronizing vibration-induced forces with events in the cardiac cycle were compared to those for the nonsynchronous case in eight chronically instrumented, tranquilized dogs. The supine animals received sinusoidal, whole-body vibration (along the spinal +/- Gz axis) at a constant acceleration amplitude (+/- 0.75 G). The vibration frequency (2-3 Hz) was set equal to the paced heart frequency. Synchronization between vibration and cardiac cycles on a beat-by-beat basis produced a specific and sustained cardiovascular response; such a sustained response was not possible with nonsynchronous vibration. With synchronization, relationships could be found and sustained in which changes either exceeded or were below mean nonsynchronous levels, in some cases below previbration values. For the synchronous vs. nonsynchronous states, significant modification of cardiac function was reflected in parameters such as coronary flow (+15% to -34%) and myocardial oxygen consumption (+21% to -51%). Thus, whole-body oscillation acceleration (vibration) is a forcing function that can produce and maintain a particular cardiovascular response.", "contents": "Cardiac responses of dogs to nonsynchronous and heart synchronous whole-body vibration. Changes in cardiac function produced by synchronizing vibration-induced forces with events in the cardiac cycle were compared to those for the nonsynchronous case in eight chronically instrumented, tranquilized dogs. The supine animals received sinusoidal, whole-body vibration (along the spinal +/- Gz axis) at a constant acceleration amplitude (+/- 0.75 G). The vibration frequency (2-3 Hz) was set equal to the paced heart frequency. Synchronization between vibration and cardiac cycles on a beat-by-beat basis produced a specific and sustained cardiovascular response; such a sustained response was not possible with nonsynchronous vibration. With synchronization, relationships could be found and sustained in which changes either exceeded or were below mean nonsynchronous levels, in some cases below previbration values. For the synchronous vs. nonsynchronous states, significant modification of cardiac function was reflected in parameters such as coronary flow (+15% to -34%) and myocardial oxygen consumption (+21% to -51%). Thus, whole-body oscillation acceleration (vibration) is a forcing function that can produce and maintain a particular cardiovascular response.", "PMID": 438026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3800", "title": "Sex and age differences in intrathoracic airways mechanics in normal man.", "content": "Expiratory pressure-volume curves and maximal expiratory flow-volume curves were obtained in 74 healthy subjects (49 males 25 females) aged between 20 and 64. Maximal expiratory flowstatic recoil (MEFSR) curves were then constructed. Aging was associated with loss of lung recoil and reduction in maximal expiratory flow measured between 80 and 50% total lung capacity (TLC), in both males and females, with the slope of the MEFSR curve becoming steeper. In subjects less than 40 yr old the conductance of the upstream segment increased from 80 to 50% TLC, whereas in older subjects it decreased. We also studied the effects of alveolar gas compression artifacts on MEFSR curves in 12 additional subjects and 10 patients with chronic obstructive lung disease; consistent changes were found, but the subsequent shift of the MEFSR curve toward the left was only mild. These changes are interpreted as reflecting the net effects of an increase in the unstressed dimensions of the airways together with a decrease in intraparenchymal airways diameter, probably due to loss of parenchymal airways diameter, probably due to loss of parenchymal support. It was also concluded that the analysis of the MEFSR curve did not allow a quantitative estimate of the chantes in airways compressibility with aging.", "contents": "Sex and age differences in intrathoracic airways mechanics in normal man. Expiratory pressure-volume curves and maximal expiratory flow-volume curves were obtained in 74 healthy subjects (49 males 25 females) aged between 20 and 64. Maximal expiratory flowstatic recoil (MEFSR) curves were then constructed. Aging was associated with loss of lung recoil and reduction in maximal expiratory flow measured between 80 and 50% total lung capacity (TLC), in both males and females, with the slope of the MEFSR curve becoming steeper. In subjects less than 40 yr old the conductance of the upstream segment increased from 80 to 50% TLC, whereas in older subjects it decreased. We also studied the effects of alveolar gas compression artifacts on MEFSR curves in 12 additional subjects and 10 patients with chronic obstructive lung disease; consistent changes were found, but the subsequent shift of the MEFSR curve toward the left was only mild. These changes are interpreted as reflecting the net effects of an increase in the unstressed dimensions of the airways together with a decrease in intraparenchymal airways diameter, probably due to loss of parenchymal airways diameter, probably due to loss of parenchymal support. It was also concluded that the analysis of the MEFSR curve did not allow a quantitative estimate of the chantes in airways compressibility with aging.", "PMID": 438027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3801", "title": "Variability of the configuration of maximum expiratory flow-volume curves.", "content": "With a computer technique variability of the configuration of maximum expiratory flow-volume (MEFV) curves was studied in terms of slope ratio, SR. SR = dV/dV divided by V/V, where V is the instantaneous flow and V is the volume increment above residual volume.) Approximately four SR-V curves, each based on three to five smoothed and averaged MEFV curves, were derived for each of 20 normal subjects (aged 23-55 yr) on a single occasion, and again at least 1 wk later. Individual curves were largely reproducible, the maximum difference in SR at most volumes being 0.3-1 U, but frequently showed substantial yet reproducible fluctuations with volume. These corresponeded to hitherto unrecognized irregularities of maximum expiratory flow that may reflect sudden changes in the location of flow limitation.", "contents": "Variability of the configuration of maximum expiratory flow-volume curves. With a computer technique variability of the configuration of maximum expiratory flow-volume (MEFV) curves was studied in terms of slope ratio, SR. SR = dV/dV divided by V/V, where V is the instantaneous flow and V is the volume increment above residual volume.) Approximately four SR-V curves, each based on three to five smoothed and averaged MEFV curves, were derived for each of 20 normal subjects (aged 23-55 yr) on a single occasion, and again at least 1 wk later. Individual curves were largely reproducible, the maximum difference in SR at most volumes being 0.3-1 U, but frequently showed substantial yet reproducible fluctuations with volume. These corresponeded to hitherto unrecognized irregularities of maximum expiratory flow that may reflect sudden changes in the location of flow limitation.", "PMID": 438028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3802", "title": "Information content of the multibreath nitrogen washout.", "content": "The distribution of ventilation per unit volume (Va/Vol) in the lung is often studied using the multibreath N2 washout test. Most approaches have focused on the determination of a single Va/Vol distribution (consisting of from two compartments to a continuum) compatible with the data, but because the potential number of lung units greatly exceeds the number of breaths measured, many distributions are usually compatible with a given set of washout data. Interpretation of single distributions therefore requires evaluation of the variability among all such compatible distributions. The technique of linear programing is well suited to evaluation of these compatible distributions and its application to the N2 washout is explained. Twelve examples of washout data are analyzed in this way. The results indicate that using the first 20 or so breaths of the washout, narrow distributions of Va/Vol are well specified. Distributions with up to four distinct modes are also well specified, but for broad distributions the shape cannot be adequately defined. Good resolution in the region of high Va/Vol is found to be critically dependent on measuring the first few breaths of the washout.", "contents": "Information content of the multibreath nitrogen washout. The distribution of ventilation per unit volume (Va/Vol) in the lung is often studied using the multibreath N2 washout test. Most approaches have focused on the determination of a single Va/Vol distribution (consisting of from two compartments to a continuum) compatible with the data, but because the potential number of lung units greatly exceeds the number of breaths measured, many distributions are usually compatible with a given set of washout data. Interpretation of single distributions therefore requires evaluation of the variability among all such compatible distributions. The technique of linear programing is well suited to evaluation of these compatible distributions and its application to the N2 washout is explained. Twelve examples of washout data are analyzed in this way. The results indicate that using the first 20 or so breaths of the washout, narrow distributions of Va/Vol are well specified. Distributions with up to four distinct modes are also well specified, but for broad distributions the shape cannot be adequately defined. Good resolution in the region of high Va/Vol is found to be critically dependent on measuring the first few breaths of the washout.", "PMID": 438030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3803", "title": "Stroke volume and systolic time interval adjustments during bicycle exercise.", "content": "By use of the impedance noninvasive method, cardiac output (Q), stroke volume (SV), heart rate (HR), Heather index (HI), and systolic time interval (STI) values were studied in 17 subjects working at 25, 50, and 75% of their maximal oxygen uptake (Vo2 max) on a Monark bicycle. A significant increase in SV at each work load and a concomitant decrease in positive expiratory pressure (PEP), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), and PEP/LVET were observed. The linear regression equation at 75% Vo2 max between LVET and HR and SV confirms the close relationship between these parameters. The significa-t increase of the contractility index (HI) showing the stress response of the myocardium is clearly assessed. At 75% work load, its correlation with SV is low; but the high level of the correlation (r = 0.90) between HI and HR in the stress response. Consequently the changes in STI and HI provide valuable information on SV adjustment during calibrated effort responses. Consequently, the changes in STI and HI, the relationship between STI and SV, and the study of SV, HR, and Q provide valuable information about the adjustment of these parameters during calibrated efforts.", "contents": "Stroke volume and systolic time interval adjustments during bicycle exercise. By use of the impedance noninvasive method, cardiac output (Q), stroke volume (SV), heart rate (HR), Heather index (HI), and systolic time interval (STI) values were studied in 17 subjects working at 25, 50, and 75% of their maximal oxygen uptake (Vo2 max) on a Monark bicycle. A significant increase in SV at each work load and a concomitant decrease in positive expiratory pressure (PEP), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), and PEP/LVET were observed. The linear regression equation at 75% Vo2 max between LVET and HR and SV confirms the close relationship between these parameters. The significa-t increase of the contractility index (HI) showing the stress response of the myocardium is clearly assessed. At 75% work load, its correlation with SV is low; but the high level of the correlation (r = 0.90) between HI and HR in the stress response. Consequently the changes in STI and HI provide valuable information on SV adjustment during calibrated effort responses. Consequently, the changes in STI and HI, the relationship between STI and SV, and the study of SV, HR, and Q provide valuable information about the adjustment of these parameters during calibrated efforts.", "PMID": 438031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3804", "title": "Effects of pulmonary circulation on blood levels of insulin and glucagon in ambulant dogs.", "content": "The effect of the lung on insulin and glucagon were studied by comparing aortic and mixed venous levels in ambulant dogs with indwelling catheters. In the resting state ther was no difference for either hormone. After injection of insulin aortic levels exceeded mixed venous for 10 min; mixed venous levels exceeded aortic for the next 36 min. After injection of glucagon mixed venous levels consistently exceeded aortic. Single-pass studied showed an apparent gain in immunoreactive insulin as compared with [14C]inulin and 125I-albumin during passage through the lung; but no effect on glucagon could be demonstrated. A loss of immunoreactive hormone across the lung might be explained by degradation within the capillary lumen be endothelial cell surface peptidases or uptake onto specific receptors. The apparent gain of immunoreactive insulin across the lung might be due to displacement of immunoreactive exogenous hormone competing for receptor sites or modification of exogenous hormone by the lungs with increase in immunoreactivity.", "contents": "Effects of pulmonary circulation on blood levels of insulin and glucagon in ambulant dogs. The effect of the lung on insulin and glucagon were studied by comparing aortic and mixed venous levels in ambulant dogs with indwelling catheters. In the resting state ther was no difference for either hormone. After injection of insulin aortic levels exceeded mixed venous for 10 min; mixed venous levels exceeded aortic for the next 36 min. After injection of glucagon mixed venous levels consistently exceeded aortic. Single-pass studied showed an apparent gain in immunoreactive insulin as compared with [14C]inulin and 125I-albumin during passage through the lung; but no effect on glucagon could be demonstrated. A loss of immunoreactive hormone across the lung might be explained by degradation within the capillary lumen be endothelial cell surface peptidases or uptake onto specific receptors. The apparent gain of immunoreactive insulin across the lung might be due to displacement of immunoreactive exogenous hormone competing for receptor sites or modification of exogenous hormone by the lungs with increase in immunoreactivity.", "PMID": 438032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3805", "title": "A method for continuous measurement of ammonia in respiratory airways.", "content": "A method has been developed that can continuously measure respiratory NH3 with a detection limit of 30 parts per billion by volume (ppbv) at an averaging time of 1 s. The method is based on the chemiluminescent detection of NO, which is produced by oxidizing NH3 at 850 degrees C. A polyethylene sampling probe, incorporating a heated capillary tip bathed in dry, NH3-free diluent air, minimizes NH3 losses due to absorption in breath condensate. In one subject, flow and tidal volume were monitored during quiet mouth breathing while NH3 and CO2 were sampled at the lips. In 10 subjects, NH3, and CO2 were sampled at the lips during quiet mouth breathing ranged from 280 to 1,280 ppbv (mean plus or minus SE, 540 PLUS OR MINUS 85 PPBV).", "contents": "A method for continuous measurement of ammonia in respiratory airways. A method has been developed that can continuously measure respiratory NH3 with a detection limit of 30 parts per billion by volume (ppbv) at an averaging time of 1 s. The method is based on the chemiluminescent detection of NO, which is produced by oxidizing NH3 at 850 degrees C. A polyethylene sampling probe, incorporating a heated capillary tip bathed in dry, NH3-free diluent air, minimizes NH3 losses due to absorption in breath condensate. In one subject, flow and tidal volume were monitored during quiet mouth breathing while NH3 and CO2 were sampled at the lips. In 10 subjects, NH3, and CO2 were sampled at the lips during quiet mouth breathing ranged from 280 to 1,280 ppbv (mean plus or minus SE, 540 PLUS OR MINUS 85 PPBV).", "PMID": 438033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3806", "title": "Granuloma formation associated with subconjunctival injection of a corticosteroid in dogs.", "content": "In three dogs given a subconjunctival injection of methylprednisolone acetate for the treatment of ophthalmic disorders, a yellow mass developed at the injection site. Microscopic examination of each excised mass revealed circumscribed granulomatous inflammation surrounding a central core of amorphous foreign material.", "contents": "Granuloma formation associated with subconjunctival injection of a corticosteroid in dogs. In three dogs given a subconjunctival injection of methylprednisolone acetate for the treatment of ophthalmic disorders, a yellow mass developed at the injection site. Microscopic examination of each excised mass revealed circumscribed granulomatous inflammation surrounding a central core of amorphous foreign material.", "PMID": 438037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3807", "title": "Aortic interruption in a dog.", "content": "A 3-month-old English Bulldog was found to have a discontinuity between the ascending and descending aorta. There were no signs of illness associated with the interruption. The descending aorta was supplied with blood by collateral circulation. An aortic graft of woven synthetic material was surgically implanted to connect the ascending and descending aorta. Without any restrictions on the dog's activity, the dog has lived for over 1 year and continues to do well.", "contents": "Aortic interruption in a dog. A 3-month-old English Bulldog was found to have a discontinuity between the ascending and descending aorta. There were no signs of illness associated with the interruption. The descending aorta was supplied with blood by collateral circulation. An aortic graft of woven synthetic material was surgically implanted to connect the ascending and descending aorta. Without any restrictions on the dog's activity, the dog has lived for over 1 year and continues to do well.", "PMID": 438040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3808", "title": "Characterization of renal defects in dogs with a syndrome similar to the Fanconi syndrome in man.", "content": "Ten adult dogs with multiple spontaneous defects of renal tubular reabsorption were studied. Clinical signs included polydipsia, polyuria, and glycosuria for 2 to 12 months. Eight of the dogs were Basenjis. Urinalyses revealed hyposthenuria, glycosuria, and amino aciduria in most dogs. Renal function was normal in 5 dogs and slightly reduced in the remainder. Moderate metabolic acidosis had developed in 3 dogs. Renal clearance studies revealed reduced tubular reabsorption of glucose, phosphate, sodium, potassium, and uric acid. Abnormal glucose tubular maximal curves were found. Results of oral glucose tolerance tests were normal. Two patterns of abnormal amino aciduria were evident: generalized amino aciduria and a pattern similar to that of cystinuria in dogs. Radiography of long bones and bone densitometry did not reveal any skeletal abnormalities. Five of the dogs died within 90 days of diagnosis; death was due to acute renal failure associated with profound dehydration, acidosis, and papillary necrosis. The other dogs remained stable without treatment after 18 months. Histopathology of kidneys did not reveal uniform abnormalities; some dogs had variable and nonspecific changes and others were normal. Electron microscopy did not reveal ultrastructural abnormalities in renal tubular cells. It was concluded that the syndrome in these dogs represents a new entity of renal disease in dogs, similar to idiopathic Fanconi syndrome in man.", "contents": "Characterization of renal defects in dogs with a syndrome similar to the Fanconi syndrome in man. Ten adult dogs with multiple spontaneous defects of renal tubular reabsorption were studied. Clinical signs included polydipsia, polyuria, and glycosuria for 2 to 12 months. Eight of the dogs were Basenjis. Urinalyses revealed hyposthenuria, glycosuria, and amino aciduria in most dogs. Renal function was normal in 5 dogs and slightly reduced in the remainder. Moderate metabolic acidosis had developed in 3 dogs. Renal clearance studies revealed reduced tubular reabsorption of glucose, phosphate, sodium, potassium, and uric acid. Abnormal glucose tubular maximal curves were found. Results of oral glucose tolerance tests were normal. Two patterns of abnormal amino aciduria were evident: generalized amino aciduria and a pattern similar to that of cystinuria in dogs. Radiography of long bones and bone densitometry did not reveal any skeletal abnormalities. Five of the dogs died within 90 days of diagnosis; death was due to acute renal failure associated with profound dehydration, acidosis, and papillary necrosis. The other dogs remained stable without treatment after 18 months. Histopathology of kidneys did not reveal uniform abnormalities; some dogs had variable and nonspecific changes and others were normal. Electron microscopy did not reveal ultrastructural abnormalities in renal tubular cells. It was concluded that the syndrome in these dogs represents a new entity of renal disease in dogs, similar to idiopathic Fanconi syndrome in man.", "PMID": 438041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3809", "title": "Dissolution of a struvite nephrolith in a dog.", "content": "A large radiodense calculus in the left renal pelvis of a 22-month-old, male Great Dane disappeared one month following surgical removal of two struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate) calculi from the right renal pelvis. The dog's urine likely became undersaturated with struvite for a sufficient period to permit dissolution of the renal calculus. Several factors may have contributed to the decrease in urine struvite concentration, including eradication of a urease-producing Proteus sp from the urinary tract and induction of polydipsia and compensatory polyuria by oral administration of sodium chloride.", "contents": "Dissolution of a struvite nephrolith in a dog. A large radiodense calculus in the left renal pelvis of a 22-month-old, male Great Dane disappeared one month following surgical removal of two struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate) calculi from the right renal pelvis. The dog's urine likely became undersaturated with struvite for a sufficient period to permit dissolution of the renal calculus. Several factors may have contributed to the decrease in urine struvite concentration, including eradication of a urease-producing Proteus sp from the urinary tract and induction of polydipsia and compensatory polyuria by oral administration of sodium chloride.", "PMID": 438042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3810", "title": "Nondiabetic emphysematous cystitis in two dogs.", "content": "Emphysematous cystitis unassociated with diabetes mellitus was diagnosed in two dogs. One dog had chronic recurring urinary tract infection with aerobic and anaerboic bacteria, and the other had urinary tract infection associated with renal glucosuria. In both dogs, the cystitis was resolved with appropriate antibacterial therapy.", "contents": "Nondiabetic emphysematous cystitis in two dogs. Emphysematous cystitis unassociated with diabetes mellitus was diagnosed in two dogs. One dog had chronic recurring urinary tract infection with aerobic and anaerboic bacteria, and the other had urinary tract infection associated with renal glucosuria. In both dogs, the cystitis was resolved with appropriate antibacterial therapy.", "PMID": 438043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3811", "title": "Sudden death in young dogs with myocarditis caused by parvovirus.", "content": "Sudden death of pups in the 4- to 6-week age range has recently been occurring in western Canada as a result of severe, primary, nonsuppurative myocarditis. At necropsy, the prominent macroscopic lesion was pulmonary edema, and microscopically, characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies were found within cardiac myofibers in association with myocarditis. Ultrastructurally, numerous small particles resembling parvoviruses were found within the intranuclear inclusion bodies, which were positive by direct fluorescent antibody test for canine parvovirus. Of three pups inoculated with homogenate from affected myocardium, one developed lesions resembling canine parvoviral enteritis.", "contents": "Sudden death in young dogs with myocarditis caused by parvovirus. Sudden death of pups in the 4- to 6-week age range has recently been occurring in western Canada as a result of severe, primary, nonsuppurative myocarditis. At necropsy, the prominent macroscopic lesion was pulmonary edema, and microscopically, characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies were found within cardiac myofibers in association with myocarditis. Ultrastructurally, numerous small particles resembling parvoviruses were found within the intranuclear inclusion bodies, which were positive by direct fluorescent antibody test for canine parvovirus. Of three pups inoculated with homogenate from affected myocardium, one developed lesions resembling canine parvoviral enteritis.", "PMID": 438048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3812", "title": "Myocarditis of probable viral origin in pups of weaning age.", "content": "Myocarditis in 4- to 8-week-old pups from 10 litters was characterized by sudden death. Histopathologic findings included mononuclear cellular infiltration and interstitial fibrosis in the myocardium of the left ventricle. Basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies were seen in myocardial cells in 4 of 18 pups necropsied, suggesting a viral origin of the disease. Other pathologic changes were variable, but all were attributable to cardiac failure. Of 8 surviving pups examined, 7 had evidence of cardiac failure, including pulmonary edema, cardiomegaly, and cardiac arrhythmias.", "contents": "Myocarditis of probable viral origin in pups of weaning age. Myocarditis in 4- to 8-week-old pups from 10 litters was characterized by sudden death. Histopathologic findings included mononuclear cellular infiltration and interstitial fibrosis in the myocardium of the left ventricle. Basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies were seen in myocardial cells in 4 of 18 pups necropsied, suggesting a viral origin of the disease. Other pathologic changes were variable, but all were attributable to cardiac failure. Of 8 surviving pups examined, 7 had evidence of cardiac failure, including pulmonary edema, cardiomegaly, and cardiac arrhythmias.", "PMID": 438049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3813", "title": "Canine hyperadrenocorticism: pretreatment clinical and laboratory evaluation of 117 cases.", "content": "The physical findings, clinical signs, age, breed and sex distributions, and laboratory data of 117 dogs with untreated Cushing's syndrome were reviewed. Poodles, Dachshunds, and Boxers of all ages were found to be at increased risk, as were dogs of all breeds greater than or equal to 6 years old. Polydipsia, polyuria, progressive bilaterally symmetric alopecia, and abdominal distention were the most frequently observed clinical signs and physical findings. Lymphopenia, eosinopenia, above normal values of serum alkaline phosphatase, serum cholesterol, and sulfobromphthalein dye retention, and below normal urine specific gravity were the most frequent abnormalities found in the laboratory data. About 50% of the dogs had urinary tract infections. Final diagnosis was established on the basis of abnormally high plasma corticosteroid values in response to an intramuscular injection of adrenocorticotropic hormone.", "contents": "Canine hyperadrenocorticism: pretreatment clinical and laboratory evaluation of 117 cases. The physical findings, clinical signs, age, breed and sex distributions, and laboratory data of 117 dogs with untreated Cushing's syndrome were reviewed. Poodles, Dachshunds, and Boxers of all ages were found to be at increased risk, as were dogs of all breeds greater than or equal to 6 years old. Polydipsia, polyuria, progressive bilaterally symmetric alopecia, and abdominal distention were the most frequently observed clinical signs and physical findings. Lymphopenia, eosinopenia, above normal values of serum alkaline phosphatase, serum cholesterol, and sulfobromphthalein dye retention, and below normal urine specific gravity were the most frequent abnormalities found in the laboratory data. About 50% of the dogs had urinary tract infections. Final diagnosis was established on the basis of abnormally high plasma corticosteroid values in response to an intramuscular injection of adrenocorticotropic hormone.", "PMID": 438050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3814", "title": "Phycomycosis in fifteen dogs and two cats.", "content": "Phycomycosis was confirmed by histologic examination of biopsy specimens from 15 dogs and at necropsy in 2 cats. The fungal infections occurred most frequently in young adult dogs (1-3 yr) of the larger breeds. The gastrointestinal tract was the organ most commonly involved. Treatment by surgical excision, amphotericin B, and sodium iodide alone or in combination was attempted in five cases. Mortality was 100%.", "contents": "Phycomycosis in fifteen dogs and two cats. Phycomycosis was confirmed by histologic examination of biopsy specimens from 15 dogs and at necropsy in 2 cats. The fungal infections occurred most frequently in young adult dogs (1-3 yr) of the larger breeds. The gastrointestinal tract was the organ most commonly involved. Treatment by surgical excision, amphotericin B, and sodium iodide alone or in combination was attempted in five cases. Mortality was 100%.", "PMID": 438051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3815", "title": "Meningiomas in cats: a retrospective clinical study of 36 cases.", "content": "Thirty-six cases of meningiomas in cats were reviewed as to the clinical signs and anatomic location. Age, breed, and sex also were noted. It was found that, in general, meningiomas affected older cats, with two thirds of them being greater than or equal to 10 years old. There was no breed predilection, although there was a majority of male cats. In most cases, the anatomic location was supratentorial, with only one case being infratentorial, and no tumors were below the foramen magnum. A number of cats had multiple maningiomas, and this often complicated the anatomic localization by neurologic examination. Tentorial herniation (6 cases) was associated with positional nystagmus or tetraparesis, or both, in addition to the deficits caused by the tumor.", "contents": "Meningiomas in cats: a retrospective clinical study of 36 cases. Thirty-six cases of meningiomas in cats were reviewed as to the clinical signs and anatomic location. Age, breed, and sex also were noted. It was found that, in general, meningiomas affected older cats, with two thirds of them being greater than or equal to 10 years old. There was no breed predilection, although there was a majority of male cats. In most cases, the anatomic location was supratentorial, with only one case being infratentorial, and no tumors were below the foramen magnum. A number of cats had multiple maningiomas, and this often complicated the anatomic localization by neurologic examination. Tentorial herniation (6 cases) was associated with positional nystagmus or tetraparesis, or both, in addition to the deficits caused by the tumor.", "PMID": 438052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3816", "title": "Cystic lymphangioma in a colt.", "content": "A 6-month-old Morgan colt was examined because of preputial edema and multiple nodular masses in the left inguinal region. A tentative diagnosis of lymphatic hamartoma was made on the basis of initial biopsy findings. The prognosis for surgical excision was poor due to the progressive expansile growth of the tumor. Secondary infectious complications developed, and the colt was euthanatized at the owner's request. An abdominal and retroperitoneal mass was seen at postmortem examination. The mass was adherent to the left lumbar musculature, the craniodorsal aspect of the pelvic inlet, the midjejunum, the left testicle, and the left kidney. The mass extended through the left inguinal and femoral canals into the deep intermuscular fascia of the hindlimb. Histologic examination of the mass indicated that it was a cystic lymphangioma.", "contents": "Cystic lymphangioma in a colt. A 6-month-old Morgan colt was examined because of preputial edema and multiple nodular masses in the left inguinal region. A tentative diagnosis of lymphatic hamartoma was made on the basis of initial biopsy findings. The prognosis for surgical excision was poor due to the progressive expansile growth of the tumor. Secondary infectious complications developed, and the colt was euthanatized at the owner's request. An abdominal and retroperitoneal mass was seen at postmortem examination. The mass was adherent to the left lumbar musculature, the craniodorsal aspect of the pelvic inlet, the midjejunum, the left testicle, and the left kidney. The mass extended through the left inguinal and femoral canals into the deep intermuscular fascia of the hindlimb. Histologic examination of the mass indicated that it was a cystic lymphangioma.", "PMID": 438053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3817", "title": "Surgical decompression for traumatic atlantoaxial subluxation in a weanling filly.", "content": "A filly with ataxia and splinting and crepitation in the neck was found to have atlantoaxial subluxation. Radiographic diagnosis was based on the same criteria as those used in other species, ie, increased distance between the atlas and spine of the axis and increased distance between the dens and floor of the atlas. Extensive hemilaminectomy was performed to decompress the spinal cord. Stabilization was not attempted. Immediate postoperative response was encouraging, but the untimely death of the filly prevented further evaluation of the procedure.", "contents": "Surgical decompression for traumatic atlantoaxial subluxation in a weanling filly. A filly with ataxia and splinting and crepitation in the neck was found to have atlantoaxial subluxation. Radiographic diagnosis was based on the same criteria as those used in other species, ie, increased distance between the atlas and spine of the axis and increased distance between the dens and floor of the atlas. Extensive hemilaminectomy was performed to decompress the spinal cord. Stabilization was not attempted. Immediate postoperative response was encouraging, but the untimely death of the filly prevented further evaluation of the procedure.", "PMID": 438054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3818", "title": "Ultrasonic diagnosis of ocular pathology: its significance for cataract surgery with and without IOL implantation.", "content": "The use of diagnostic ultrasound can alert the eye surgeon to certain pathologic conditions of the eye before cataract surgery, including problems associated with the vitreous, retina, choroid and lens. This knowledge may be applied to all cataract surgery and in particular to intraocular lens implantation.", "contents": "Ultrasonic diagnosis of ocular pathology: its significance for cataract surgery with and without IOL implantation. The use of diagnostic ultrasound can alert the eye surgeon to certain pathologic conditions of the eye before cataract surgery, including problems associated with the vitreous, retina, choroid and lens. This knowledge may be applied to all cataract surgery and in particular to intraocular lens implantation.", "PMID": 438058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3819", "title": "Production and life span of cutaneous mast cells in young rats.", "content": "Tritiated thymidine was injected into young rats (age 7 days) in such a way as to be incorporated into the nuclei of all cells that were synthesizing DNA during a period of 22 hours. Specimens of the skin of the back and the pinna of the ear were taken at intervals from one to 112 days after injection of the [3H]thymidine. The mast cells were stained with Alcian blue, and autoradiographs were prepared. The nuclei were counterstained with alum-brazilin. Making due allowance for growth of the animals, and for shrinkage due to histological preparation, the total numbers of mast cells in the dorsal skin and in the pinna were determined. The numbers of mast cells containing [3H]thymidine were calculated from the proportions of those cells found to have radioactive nuclie. Using these data, the rates of appearance of labelled mast cells, and of decline in their numbers with time were determined for both regions of skin. No mitotic figures were seen in any mast cells. It is concluded that mast cells arise by the division of agranular precursor cells of unknown identity. The characteristic cytoplasmic granules appear to be produced by the daughter cells during the 24-48 hours following premitotic replication of DNA in the precursors. The differentiated cells have half-lives of 4-9 days in the skin of the back and 7-20 days in the external ear. All the labelled mast cells had disappeared after 28 days in the back and after 84 days in the ear. Comparison of these findings with the results of other investigators suggests that the mast cells produced early in life have much shorter life spans than do most of the mast cells present in adult rats, The longer life span found in the pinna may account for the greater density of the cells there than in the back. This regional difference may reflect the greater need for mast cells in a region which is more susceptible to adverse environmental influences.", "contents": "Production and life span of cutaneous mast cells in young rats. Tritiated thymidine was injected into young rats (age 7 days) in such a way as to be incorporated into the nuclei of all cells that were synthesizing DNA during a period of 22 hours. Specimens of the skin of the back and the pinna of the ear were taken at intervals from one to 112 days after injection of the [3H]thymidine. The mast cells were stained with Alcian blue, and autoradiographs were prepared. The nuclei were counterstained with alum-brazilin. Making due allowance for growth of the animals, and for shrinkage due to histological preparation, the total numbers of mast cells in the dorsal skin and in the pinna were determined. The numbers of mast cells containing [3H]thymidine were calculated from the proportions of those cells found to have radioactive nuclie. Using these data, the rates of appearance of labelled mast cells, and of decline in their numbers with time were determined for both regions of skin. No mitotic figures were seen in any mast cells. It is concluded that mast cells arise by the division of agranular precursor cells of unknown identity. The characteristic cytoplasmic granules appear to be produced by the daughter cells during the 24-48 hours following premitotic replication of DNA in the precursors. The differentiated cells have half-lives of 4-9 days in the skin of the back and 7-20 days in the external ear. All the labelled mast cells had disappeared after 28 days in the back and after 84 days in the ear. Comparison of these findings with the results of other investigators suggests that the mast cells produced early in life have much shorter life spans than do most of the mast cells present in adult rats, The longer life span found in the pinna may account for the greater density of the cells there than in the back. This regional difference may reflect the greater need for mast cells in a region which is more susceptible to adverse environmental influences.", "PMID": 438085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3820", "title": "The small luteal cell of the sheep.", "content": "Corpora lutea of sheep were examined by electron microscopy at day 10 of the oestrous cycle and at days 15, 25, 50, 100, 125 and 140 of pregnancy. Small luteal cells were present in all corpora lutea, and were two to three times as numerous as large luteal cells. The former were irregular in shape, with tapering cytoplasmic processes. Their major cytoplasmic organelles were a predominantly smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria with tubular and lamellar cristae, and one or more Golgi complexes. The enzyme delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase was present in their cytoplasm. Small luteal cells were often interposed between large luteal cells and capillaries, and formed close, complex surface relationships with large luteal cells. Small and large luteal cells differed in many ways, including the restriction of numerous approximately 0.2 micron cytoplasmic granules to the large cells, and no cells of intermediate structure were observed. These features of small luteal cells suggest a steroid hormone synthetic function, and direct interaction with large luteal cells.", "contents": "The small luteal cell of the sheep. Corpora lutea of sheep were examined by electron microscopy at day 10 of the oestrous cycle and at days 15, 25, 50, 100, 125 and 140 of pregnancy. Small luteal cells were present in all corpora lutea, and were two to three times as numerous as large luteal cells. The former were irregular in shape, with tapering cytoplasmic processes. Their major cytoplasmic organelles were a predominantly smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria with tubular and lamellar cristae, and one or more Golgi complexes. The enzyme delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase was present in their cytoplasm. Small luteal cells were often interposed between large luteal cells and capillaries, and formed close, complex surface relationships with large luteal cells. Small and large luteal cells differed in many ways, including the restriction of numerous approximately 0.2 micron cytoplasmic granules to the large cells, and no cells of intermediate structure were observed. These features of small luteal cells suggest a steroid hormone synthetic function, and direct interaction with large luteal cells.", "PMID": 438086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3821", "title": "Observations on the mode of termination and parenchymal distribution of the splenic artery with evidence of splenic lobation and segmentation.", "content": "The mode of termination of the splenic artery was studied in 25 cadavers. Observation on the parenchymal distribution of the artery in 17 casts revealed avascular planes that divided the spleen into lobes, inside which other avascular planes separated the lobes into segments.", "contents": "Observations on the mode of termination and parenchymal distribution of the splenic artery with evidence of splenic lobation and segmentation. The mode of termination of the splenic artery was studied in 25 cadavers. Observation on the parenchymal distribution of the artery in 17 casts revealed avascular planes that divided the spleen into lobes, inside which other avascular planes separated the lobes into segments.", "PMID": 438087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3822", "title": "Experimental degeneration of intra-epithelia nerve fibres in cat airways.", "content": "This paper describes a quantitative and ultrastructural study of the degeneration of the intra-epithelial nerves in the epithelium of the lower respiratory tract of the cat following unilateral cervical infra-nodose vagotomy and section of the superior laryngeal nerve. A significant reduction in the number of intra-epithelial axons was found on the denervated side, degeneration being more complete at the hilus than in the trachea. Cellular inclusions resembling degenerating axons were observed especially on the denervated side, and their ultrastructural morphology is described. The functions of nerves which degenerated, and of those which remained unaffected, are discussed.", "contents": "Experimental degeneration of intra-epithelia nerve fibres in cat airways. This paper describes a quantitative and ultrastructural study of the degeneration of the intra-epithelial nerves in the epithelium of the lower respiratory tract of the cat following unilateral cervical infra-nodose vagotomy and section of the superior laryngeal nerve. A significant reduction in the number of intra-epithelial axons was found on the denervated side, degeneration being more complete at the hilus than in the trachea. Cellular inclusions resembling degenerating axons were observed especially on the denervated side, and their ultrastructural morphology is described. The functions of nerves which degenerated, and of those which remained unaffected, are discussed.", "PMID": 438088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3823", "title": "Cytochemical studies of cell population in peripheral blood smears of two West African teleosts.", "content": "The peripheral blood cells of two West African teleosts were examined for lipids, glycogen, desoxyribonucleic acid, succinic, lactic and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases as well as DPNH- and TPNH-diaphorases, using cytochemical staining techniques. Our results suggest that both erythrocytes and thrombocytes as well as leucocytes are highly active metabolically, as indicated by strong reactions for LDH, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, DPNH- and TPNH-diaphorases. There is no evidence for the Krebs' cycle in any of the blood cells, The nuclei of erythrocytes and thrombocytes appear to be sites of activity of 'mitochondrial' type.", "contents": "Cytochemical studies of cell population in peripheral blood smears of two West African teleosts. The peripheral blood cells of two West African teleosts were examined for lipids, glycogen, desoxyribonucleic acid, succinic, lactic and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases as well as DPNH- and TPNH-diaphorases, using cytochemical staining techniques. Our results suggest that both erythrocytes and thrombocytes as well as leucocytes are highly active metabolically, as indicated by strong reactions for LDH, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, DPNH- and TPNH-diaphorases. There is no evidence for the Krebs' cycle in any of the blood cells, The nuclei of erythrocytes and thrombocytes appear to be sites of activity of 'mitochondrial' type.", "PMID": 438089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3824", "title": "Neutron diffraction studies of lumbar vertebrae.", "content": "Neutron diffraction measurements of the orientation of the apatite crystals show a significant preference of their c-axes for the vertical direction. This preference increases from bottom to top of each vertebral body and is substantially greater for the second than for the fifth lumbar vertebrae. This is in line with the predominantly vertical forces which the former withstands.", "contents": "Neutron diffraction studies of lumbar vertebrae. Neutron diffraction measurements of the orientation of the apatite crystals show a significant preference of their c-axes for the vertical direction. This preference increases from bottom to top of each vertebral body and is substantially greater for the second than for the fifth lumbar vertebrae. This is in line with the predominantly vertical forces which the former withstands.", "PMID": 438090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3825", "title": "An ultrastructural study of the endonasal microcirculation in the Wistar rat during fetal and early postnatal life.", "content": "Fenestrated capillaries were observed prenatally in the lateral nasal wall and in glandular capillaries of the nasal mucosa of the rat. The number of fenestrations increased towards full term and during postnatal life. Specific ultrastructural features in the vascular bed were found to be primarily determined in utero.", "contents": "An ultrastructural study of the endonasal microcirculation in the Wistar rat during fetal and early postnatal life. Fenestrated capillaries were observed prenatally in the lateral nasal wall and in glandular capillaries of the nasal mucosa of the rat. The number of fenestrations increased towards full term and during postnatal life. Specific ultrastructural features in the vascular bed were found to be primarily determined in utero.", "PMID": 438091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3826", "title": "Diaphysial nutrient foramina in human phalanges.", "content": "1770 phalanges of the hand and 660 phalanges of the foot, of unknown sex, were studied to determine the number, position and direction of the nutrient foramina. It was found that, in general, these bones had one nutrient foramen in the middle third of the shaft. The proximal phalanges of the fingers often showed double foramina. Most of the foramina were situated on the border between the palmar/plantar and dorsal surfaces. The distal phalanges of the toes, and particularly of the great toe, may have a nutrient foramen on the dorsal surface. In the intermediate phalanges of the toes it is not possible to identify the nutrient foramen with certainty. All the foramina were directed away from the growing end.", "contents": "Diaphysial nutrient foramina in human phalanges. 1770 phalanges of the hand and 660 phalanges of the foot, of unknown sex, were studied to determine the number, position and direction of the nutrient foramina. It was found that, in general, these bones had one nutrient foramen in the middle third of the shaft. The proximal phalanges of the fingers often showed double foramina. Most of the foramina were situated on the border between the palmar/plantar and dorsal surfaces. The distal phalanges of the toes, and particularly of the great toe, may have a nutrient foramen on the dorsal surface. In the intermediate phalanges of the toes it is not possible to identify the nutrient foramen with certainty. All the foramina were directed away from the growing end.", "PMID": 438092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3827", "title": "Changes in axonal numbers in developing human trochlear nerve.", "content": "Complete axonal counts have been made in the intracranial parts of trochlear nerves from human fetuses of 9.2, 10 and 24 cm crown-rump length. A count was also made in the intraorbital part of the nerve from the 10 cm specimen. Schwann cell nuclei were also counted in typical cross sections, but do not necessarily reflect very accurately the schwann cell contents of the nerves. Axonal numbers conform to the propositions (1) that they do not all grow out at once, (2) do not all survive and (3) that degeneration may occur before or after myelination has begun. It seems inevitable that some loss of Schwann cells occurs in relation to the degeneration of myelinated axons, but there is no evidence for or against such a loss in relation to the degeneration of unmyelinated axons. Overall, however, Schwann cell numbers tend to increase as the number of myelinated axons increases.", "contents": "Changes in axonal numbers in developing human trochlear nerve. Complete axonal counts have been made in the intracranial parts of trochlear nerves from human fetuses of 9.2, 10 and 24 cm crown-rump length. A count was also made in the intraorbital part of the nerve from the 10 cm specimen. Schwann cell nuclei were also counted in typical cross sections, but do not necessarily reflect very accurately the schwann cell contents of the nerves. Axonal numbers conform to the propositions (1) that they do not all grow out at once, (2) do not all survive and (3) that degeneration may occur before or after myelination has begun. It seems inevitable that some loss of Schwann cells occurs in relation to the degeneration of myelinated axons, but there is no evidence for or against such a loss in relation to the degeneration of unmyelinated axons. Overall, however, Schwann cell numbers tend to increase as the number of myelinated axons increases.", "PMID": 438093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3828", "title": "An analysis of implantation in Indian hipposiderid bats.", "content": "The meagre information on the early developmental stages and the evolutionary and taxonomic position of hipposiderid bats has stimulated the present study. The cranial segment of the uterus forms a balloon-like enlargement at the time of implantation, and the antimesometrial part of its huminal slit expands into a spacious implantation chamber. Implantation is superficial and circumferential and the embryonic disc is orientated towards the side of the uterus which lies between the lateral and the antimesometrial sides. Reichert's membrane develops early, and the formation of a symplasma is described. A comparative account of implantation in the four species of hipposiderid bats of the family Hipposideridae is given, and the taxonomic position of this family is discussed on the basis of the present observations and earlier work on the embryology of Chiroptera.", "contents": "An analysis of implantation in Indian hipposiderid bats. The meagre information on the early developmental stages and the evolutionary and taxonomic position of hipposiderid bats has stimulated the present study. The cranial segment of the uterus forms a balloon-like enlargement at the time of implantation, and the antimesometrial part of its huminal slit expands into a spacious implantation chamber. Implantation is superficial and circumferential and the embryonic disc is orientated towards the side of the uterus which lies between the lateral and the antimesometrial sides. Reichert's membrane develops early, and the formation of a symplasma is described. A comparative account of implantation in the four species of hipposiderid bats of the family Hipposideridae is given, and the taxonomic position of this family is discussed on the basis of the present observations and earlier work on the embryology of Chiroptera.", "PMID": 438094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3829", "title": "Innervation of the sinu-atrial node and neighbouring regions in two human embryos.", "content": "In human embryos of 20 to 23 mm (36 to 40 days) it is possible to identify on the right side a nerve that we may call the sinusal, which originates by several roots from the nervus vagus dexter (Figs. 1A, B, D), descending through the right ventrolateral face of the primary trachea and right bronchus (Fig. 2, arrows). Beaded in appearance, it gives a fine anastomotic branch which, passing in front of the arteria pulmonalis dextra, passes to the left side (Figs. 2B, C, D; AN). At this level it gives the large branch for the nodus sinoatrialis which, penetrating through the wall of the superior vena cava, provides a rich innervation for the nodus sinoatrialis which is already in an advanced stage of differentiation (Fig. 3, 2; Cy, D, AN). Afterwards it gives fine branches which, following the atrial fold, are distributed throughout the posterior face of the atrium dextrum (Fig. 3). It increases in diameter and, passing through the angle formed by the right pulmonary veins with the atrium dextrum, reaches the intrapericardial portion of the inferior vena cava in the vicinity of its outlet from the atrium (Fig. 3, arrows). The whole innervation is parasympathetic at the stages studied.", "contents": "Innervation of the sinu-atrial node and neighbouring regions in two human embryos. In human embryos of 20 to 23 mm (36 to 40 days) it is possible to identify on the right side a nerve that we may call the sinusal, which originates by several roots from the nervus vagus dexter (Figs. 1A, B, D), descending through the right ventrolateral face of the primary trachea and right bronchus (Fig. 2, arrows). Beaded in appearance, it gives a fine anastomotic branch which, passing in front of the arteria pulmonalis dextra, passes to the left side (Figs. 2B, C, D; AN). At this level it gives the large branch for the nodus sinoatrialis which, penetrating through the wall of the superior vena cava, provides a rich innervation for the nodus sinoatrialis which is already in an advanced stage of differentiation (Fig. 3, 2; Cy, D, AN). Afterwards it gives fine branches which, following the atrial fold, are distributed throughout the posterior face of the atrium dextrum (Fig. 3). It increases in diameter and, passing through the angle formed by the right pulmonary veins with the atrium dextrum, reaches the intrapericardial portion of the inferior vena cava in the vicinity of its outlet from the atrium (Fig. 3, arrows). The whole innervation is parasympathetic at the stages studied.", "PMID": 438095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3830", "title": "The fine structure of the proximal growth plate of the avian tibia.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the proximal tibial growth plate of the 7 weeks old chicken has been described. Little ultrastructural difference could be ascertained between growth plates examined from normal white leghorn and commercial broiler chickens. The growth plate may be divided into five zones: interstitial, proliferating, prehypertrophic, hypertrophic, and degenerating hypertrophic. These zones reflect a maturation of chondrocytes, beginning with a stage of high mitotic and cytoplasmic activity passing through a stage of active secretion of matrical components (prehypertrophic and hypertrophic) and ending with degeneration of the cells and calcification of the matrix. Mineralization of the matrix appears to be initiated within matrical dense bodies, as in the mammal. Single hydroxyapatite crystals are first encountered about 0.1 mm proximal (i.e. towards the knee) to the limit of metaphyseal blood vessel ingrowth, while dense calcification is observed 0.1 mm distal to the tips of these metaphyseal vessels. The diameter of microfibrillary collagen in the growth plate matrix ranges from approximately 9 nm in the proximal zones to 19 nm in the distal zones. Many of the fibrils in the distal zones have a more or less distinct periodicity. Other major elements of the growth plate matrix are the ruthenium red-stained syncytial aggregates of mucopolysaccharides which are probably derived from the granules within the large intracellular Golgi vesicles. These findings have led the author to conclude that, while light microscopy indicates that avian and mammalian growth plates have very different structures, electron microscopy finds many similarities, suggesting that the physiological control mechanisms in these two vertebrate classes have much in common.", "contents": "The fine structure of the proximal growth plate of the avian tibia. The ultrastructure of the proximal tibial growth plate of the 7 weeks old chicken has been described. Little ultrastructural difference could be ascertained between growth plates examined from normal white leghorn and commercial broiler chickens. The growth plate may be divided into five zones: interstitial, proliferating, prehypertrophic, hypertrophic, and degenerating hypertrophic. These zones reflect a maturation of chondrocytes, beginning with a stage of high mitotic and cytoplasmic activity passing through a stage of active secretion of matrical components (prehypertrophic and hypertrophic) and ending with degeneration of the cells and calcification of the matrix. Mineralization of the matrix appears to be initiated within matrical dense bodies, as in the mammal. Single hydroxyapatite crystals are first encountered about 0.1 mm proximal (i.e. towards the knee) to the limit of metaphyseal blood vessel ingrowth, while dense calcification is observed 0.1 mm distal to the tips of these metaphyseal vessels. The diameter of microfibrillary collagen in the growth plate matrix ranges from approximately 9 nm in the proximal zones to 19 nm in the distal zones. Many of the fibrils in the distal zones have a more or less distinct periodicity. Other major elements of the growth plate matrix are the ruthenium red-stained syncytial aggregates of mucopolysaccharides which are probably derived from the granules within the large intracellular Golgi vesicles. These findings have led the author to conclude that, while light microscopy indicates that avian and mammalian growth plates have very different structures, electron microscopy finds many similarities, suggesting that the physiological control mechanisms in these two vertebrate classes have much in common.", "PMID": 438096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3831", "title": "The uptake of horseradish peroxidase by damaged autonomic nerves in vitro.", "content": "The uptake of horseradish peroxidase by damaged autonomic nerves was studied in vitro. Large amounts of the enzyme penetrated the axons in a diffuse (nonvesicular) form. This occurred within 90 minutes of application of the enzyme. Twenty four hours after application of the enzyme diffuse peroxidase was still present in the axoplasm, but it was 'diluted' as a result of great axonal swelling. Pinocytotic uptake of the enzyme was observed both 90 minutes and 24 hours after application of the enzyme. The swollen axons close to the point of ligation showed most evidence of pinocytotic uptake, largely into coated vesicles, and much membrane-bound peroxidase reaction product was present. The uptake of peroxidase in a membrane-bound form may be of particular significance for the subsequent retrograde transport of the enzyme.", "contents": "The uptake of horseradish peroxidase by damaged autonomic nerves in vitro. The uptake of horseradish peroxidase by damaged autonomic nerves was studied in vitro. Large amounts of the enzyme penetrated the axons in a diffuse (nonvesicular) form. This occurred within 90 minutes of application of the enzyme. Twenty four hours after application of the enzyme diffuse peroxidase was still present in the axoplasm, but it was 'diluted' as a result of great axonal swelling. Pinocytotic uptake of the enzyme was observed both 90 minutes and 24 hours after application of the enzyme. The swollen axons close to the point of ligation showed most evidence of pinocytotic uptake, largely into coated vesicles, and much membrane-bound peroxidase reaction product was present. The uptake of peroxidase in a membrane-bound form may be of particular significance for the subsequent retrograde transport of the enzyme.", "PMID": 438097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3832", "title": "New antibiotics from Actinoplanes strains. Structure of A 17002 C.", "content": "A 17002 C is a new metabolite produced by Actinoplanes strains, structurally related to the virginiamycin factor M. On the basis of physico-chemical data, MS, IR, 1H and 13C NMR, structure I is assigned to A 17002 C.", "contents": "New antibiotics from Actinoplanes strains. Structure of A 17002 C. A 17002 C is a new metabolite produced by Actinoplanes strains, structurally related to the virginiamycin factor M. On the basis of physico-chemical data, MS, IR, 1H and 13C NMR, structure I is assigned to A 17002 C.", "PMID": 438098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3833", "title": "Isolation of a new peptide antibiotic, permetin A, from Bacillus circulans.", "content": "Permetin A was purified from the culture filtrate of Bacillus circulans AJ 3902 by extraction with n-butanol, precipitation with sodium helianthate, CM-cellulose column chromatography and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography. The compound was found to be a new peptide antibiotic containing 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (Dab), leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, valine, serine (in a molar ratio of 3:2:1:1:1:1) and a fatty acid. This antibiotic showed activity in vitro against Gram-negative, Gram-positive and some anaerobic bacteria.", "contents": "Isolation of a new peptide antibiotic, permetin A, from Bacillus circulans. Permetin A was purified from the culture filtrate of Bacillus circulans AJ 3902 by extraction with n-butanol, precipitation with sodium helianthate, CM-cellulose column chromatography and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography. The compound was found to be a new peptide antibiotic containing 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (Dab), leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, valine, serine (in a molar ratio of 3:2:1:1:1:1) and a fatty acid. This antibiotic showed activity in vitro against Gram-negative, Gram-positive and some anaerobic bacteria.", "PMID": 438099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3834", "title": "The structure of permetin A, a new polypeptin type antibiotic produced by Bacillus circulans.", "content": "The structure of permetin A(I), an antibiotic substance produced by Bacillus circulans AJ 3902, has been elucidated as a cyclic acyl peptide by means of the mass and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques. (Formula: see text.) The structure was found to be the same as polypeptin A(II) except that L-Thr in II is replaced by L-Ser in I. Details of the structural determination are given for the permetin A itself as well as for the hydrolyzed permetin A. (Formula: see text.)", "contents": "The structure of permetin A, a new polypeptin type antibiotic produced by Bacillus circulans. The structure of permetin A(I), an antibiotic substance produced by Bacillus circulans AJ 3902, has been elucidated as a cyclic acyl peptide by means of the mass and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques. (Formula: see text.) The structure was found to be the same as polypeptin A(II) except that L-Thr in II is replaced by L-Ser in I. Details of the structural determination are given for the permetin A itself as well as for the hydrolyzed permetin A. (Formula: see text.)", "PMID": 438100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3835", "title": "Early infantile autism in monozygotic twins.", "content": "A pair of male monozygotic twins concordant for autism is reported. During pregnancy the mother suffered from severe toxemia, and delivery occurred 2 months before term. Although there may have been a genetic influence, it appears that gestational damage was the main etiological factor for the autism in both children.", "contents": "Early infantile autism in monozygotic twins. A pair of male monozygotic twins concordant for autism is reported. During pregnancy the mother suffered from severe toxemia, and delivery occurred 2 months before term. Although there may have been a genetic influence, it appears that gestational damage was the main etiological factor for the autism in both children.", "PMID": 438110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3836", "title": "Effects of peer-mediated social initiations and prompting/reinforcement procedures on the social behavior of autistic children.", "content": "Peer-mediated social initiations and prompting/reinforcement procedures were evaluated (in training and generalization sessions) as interventions for increasing the positive social behavior of four autistic children. During baseline, the peer trainer made few social initiations and did not prompt or socially reinforce subjects. For two subjects, baseline was followed by social initiation intervention, and for the other two, baseline was followed by prompting and social reinforcement. Both interventions produced dramatic and comparable increases in positive social behavior in training sessions. Post-treatment responding was not observed for either intervention. When interventions terminated in a second baseline period, the subjects' behavior returned to the level observed during the initial baseline. The subjects were then exposed to the intervention procedure they had not yet experienced. Again, there were positive and comparable behavior changes in the treatment setting, but no increase in positive social behavior was observed during generalization assessment.", "contents": "Effects of peer-mediated social initiations and prompting/reinforcement procedures on the social behavior of autistic children. Peer-mediated social initiations and prompting/reinforcement procedures were evaluated (in training and generalization sessions) as interventions for increasing the positive social behavior of four autistic children. During baseline, the peer trainer made few social initiations and did not prompt or socially reinforce subjects. For two subjects, baseline was followed by social initiation intervention, and for the other two, baseline was followed by prompting and social reinforcement. Both interventions produced dramatic and comparable increases in positive social behavior in training sessions. Post-treatment responding was not observed for either intervention. When interventions terminated in a second baseline period, the subjects' behavior returned to the level observed during the initial baseline. The subjects were then exposed to the intervention procedure they had not yet experienced. Again, there were positive and comparable behavior changes in the treatment setting, but no increase in positive social behavior was observed during generalization assessment.", "PMID": 438112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3837", "title": "Histidinemia and infantile autism.", "content": "A 10-year-old boy first showed features of infantile autism at age 24 months. Histidinemia was also diagnosed, with histidine blood levels seven times higher than the upper normal values. If the coexistence of autism and histidinemia was not coincidental, histidinemia may have constituted a necessary but not sufficient factor leading to the clinical condition of autism. Other members of the patient's family had high blood levels of histidine, but did not show symptoms that have been related to histidinemia.", "contents": "Histidinemia and infantile autism. A 10-year-old boy first showed features of infantile autism at age 24 months. Histidinemia was also diagnosed, with histidine blood levels seven times higher than the upper normal values. If the coexistence of autism and histidinemia was not coincidental, histidinemia may have constituted a necessary but not sufficient factor leading to the clinical condition of autism. Other members of the patient's family had high blood levels of histidine, but did not show symptoms that have been related to histidinemia.", "PMID": 438113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3838", "title": "Free-play behavior of atypical children: an approach to assessment.", "content": "Children's free-play behavior and its relationship to IQ and usefulness in assessing severely disturbed children were investigated. The results indicated that (1) the play of 100 normal children scored for quality and time generally yielded significant positive correlations with Binet and WPPSI IQs; (2) the correlations remained the same when verbalizations were deleted from the play protocols; (3) the play scores for 16 severely disturbed boys significantly differentiated two subgroups differing in degree of pathology, showed significant improvement from the pre- to posttreatment periods, and indicated pretreatment scores were significantly and positively correlated with improvement assessed by observer ratings in a 2-year follow-up. Implications for the use of this measure in assessment and the role of play in development were discussed.", "contents": "Free-play behavior of atypical children: an approach to assessment. Children's free-play behavior and its relationship to IQ and usefulness in assessing severely disturbed children were investigated. The results indicated that (1) the play of 100 normal children scored for quality and time generally yielded significant positive correlations with Binet and WPPSI IQs; (2) the correlations remained the same when verbalizations were deleted from the play protocols; (3) the play scores for 16 severely disturbed boys significantly differentiated two subgroups differing in degree of pathology, showed significant improvement from the pre- to posttreatment periods, and indicated pretreatment scores were significantly and positively correlated with improvement assessed by observer ratings in a 2-year follow-up. Implications for the use of this measure in assessment and the role of play in development were discussed.", "PMID": 438114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3839", "title": "Plasma levels of folates, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and ascorbate in severely disturbed children.", "content": "The recent upsurge in megavitamin therapy raises questions about the role of vitamin deficiencies and dependencies in mental health. With this in mind, the plasma levels of folic acid, ascorbic acid, pyridoxine, and riboflavin were studied in approximately 125 children admitted to a child psychiatric unit. There were no apparent decreased levels of vitamins in these children in terms of their age, race, or psychiatric diagnosis. It is postulated that vitamin deficiencies per se cannot be proposed as etiological factors in any of the psychiatric deficits represented. Megavitamin therapy, if successful, is not effective due to crrection of vitamin deficiencies as opposed to vitamin dependencies and may be due to the metabolic onus and consequent effects of such heavy doses of vitamins.", "contents": "Plasma levels of folates, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and ascorbate in severely disturbed children. The recent upsurge in megavitamin therapy raises questions about the role of vitamin deficiencies and dependencies in mental health. With this in mind, the plasma levels of folic acid, ascorbic acid, pyridoxine, and riboflavin were studied in approximately 125 children admitted to a child psychiatric unit. There were no apparent decreased levels of vitamins in these children in terms of their age, race, or psychiatric diagnosis. It is postulated that vitamin deficiencies per se cannot be proposed as etiological factors in any of the psychiatric deficits represented. Megavitamin therapy, if successful, is not effective due to crrection of vitamin deficiencies as opposed to vitamin dependencies and may be due to the metabolic onus and consequent effects of such heavy doses of vitamins.", "PMID": 438115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3840", "title": "Effects of age on communication skill levels and prevalence of maladaptive behaviors in autistic and mentally retarded children.", "content": "This study investigated the effect of age on communication and maladaptive behavior in autistic and mentally retarded children. Forty-seven autistic and 128 mentally retarded children in a special school served as subjects. The cross-sectional method was used to compare junior and senior groups, and ratings on communication skills and maladaptive behaviors were obtained from teachers. We found that the skills of comprehension and conversation in autistic children improved significantly with age, and speech improved somewhat. In spite of this improvement in communication skills, maladaptive behaviors in the autistic children other than hyperactivity did not change significantly with age. Withdrawal improved significantly with age in the mentally retarded children but not in the autistic children.", "contents": "Effects of age on communication skill levels and prevalence of maladaptive behaviors in autistic and mentally retarded children. This study investigated the effect of age on communication and maladaptive behavior in autistic and mentally retarded children. Forty-seven autistic and 128 mentally retarded children in a special school served as subjects. The cross-sectional method was used to compare junior and senior groups, and ratings on communication skills and maladaptive behaviors were obtained from teachers. We found that the skills of comprehension and conversation in autistic children improved significantly with age, and speech improved somewhat. In spite of this improvement in communication skills, maladaptive behaviors in the autistic children other than hyperactivity did not change significantly with age. Withdrawal improved significantly with age in the mentally retarded children but not in the autistic children.", "PMID": 438116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3841", "title": "Relationship between lysostaphin endopeptidase production and cell wall composition in Staphylococcus staphylolyticus.", "content": "Mutants of Staphylococcus staphylolyticus incapable of producing an extracellular staphylolytic glycylglycine endopeptidase were isolated and found to have cells in the population susceptible to lysis by this enzyme, as did the wild-type organism under conditions in which the endopeptidase was not produced. These results suggest that cultures of this organism normally contain a heterogeneous population of cells with regard to cell wall composition and susceptibility to the enzyme. Production of the endopeptidase appears to act as a selective pressure which removes the susceptible cells in the population as the enzyme appears in the medium. A comparison of the peptidoglycan of the wild-type organism grown under conditions in which the endopeptidase was produced with that of this organism grown under nonproducing conditions and with those of endopeptidase-less mutants showed that in the presence of the endopeptidase the cell population had peptidoglycan with shorter peptide cross bridges and a greater percentage of serine in these cross bridges than was found in cells grown in the absence of the enzyme. The inability of the endopeptidase to hydrolyze glycylserine and serylglycine peptide bonds suggests that at least part of the resistance this organism has to the endopeptidase is due to relative amounts of serine found in the peptide cross bridges of some cells in the population.", "contents": "Relationship between lysostaphin endopeptidase production and cell wall composition in Staphylococcus staphylolyticus. Mutants of Staphylococcus staphylolyticus incapable of producing an extracellular staphylolytic glycylglycine endopeptidase were isolated and found to have cells in the population susceptible to lysis by this enzyme, as did the wild-type organism under conditions in which the endopeptidase was not produced. These results suggest that cultures of this organism normally contain a heterogeneous population of cells with regard to cell wall composition and susceptibility to the enzyme. Production of the endopeptidase appears to act as a selective pressure which removes the susceptible cells in the population as the enzyme appears in the medium. A comparison of the peptidoglycan of the wild-type organism grown under conditions in which the endopeptidase was produced with that of this organism grown under nonproducing conditions and with those of endopeptidase-less mutants showed that in the presence of the endopeptidase the cell population had peptidoglycan with shorter peptide cross bridges and a greater percentage of serine in these cross bridges than was found in cells grown in the absence of the enzyme. The inability of the endopeptidase to hydrolyze glycylserine and serylglycine peptide bonds suggests that at least part of the resistance this organism has to the endopeptidase is due to relative amounts of serine found in the peptide cross bridges of some cells in the population.", "PMID": 438117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3842", "title": "Release of lipoteichoic acid from Streptococcus sanguis: stimulation of release during penicillin treatment.", "content": "The spontaneous and the penicillin-stimulated release of water-soluble, glycerol-labeled polymers was compared in Streptococcus sanguis. In contrast to the spontaneous release occurring in exponentially growing or stationary-phase bacteria, penicillin-treated cells released the bulk of these polymers, and they were not replenished by synthesis during antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, a major portion of the extracellular polymers was characterized as acylated lipoteichoic acid.", "contents": "Release of lipoteichoic acid from Streptococcus sanguis: stimulation of release during penicillin treatment. The spontaneous and the penicillin-stimulated release of water-soluble, glycerol-labeled polymers was compared in Streptococcus sanguis. In contrast to the spontaneous release occurring in exponentially growing or stationary-phase bacteria, penicillin-treated cells released the bulk of these polymers, and they were not replenished by synthesis during antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, a major portion of the extracellular polymers was characterized as acylated lipoteichoic acid.", "PMID": 438118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3843", "title": "Growth yields and fermentation balance of Bacteroides fragilis cultured in glucose-enriched medium.", "content": "Bacteroides fragilis is an obligate anaerobic bacterium classified with the gram-negative, non-sporeforming bacilli and is the Bacteroides species most frequently isolated from human infections. In the present study, experiments were designed to investigate growth characteristics of B. fragilis in a complex medium. In a minimal defined medium, which was employed for comparison purposes, B. fragilis grew with a generation time of 2 h. Growth of the organism in glucose-enriched medium used in the present study was superior. Maximum generation time was 60 min. Total and viable cells (colony-forming units) were 8.9 x 10(9) and 2.1 x 10(9), respectively, at maximum measurable growth. The molar growth yield (Ym) was 51.5. Growth yields were found to reach a maximum 2 to 3 h before maximum growth and to vary with respect to the phase of growth. Estimates of the fermentation products indicated that glucose was the sole energy substrate. Major products included acetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, and succinic acid. Other products included ethyl alcohol, pyruvic acid, and fumaric acid. No attempt was made to recover CO2 or formic acid. The OR balances from two experiments were 0.013 and -0.093 and the respective carbon recoveries were 6.268 and 6.241. The results of the present study show that B. fragilis is capable of rapid rates of growth in vitro by using glucose as the sole energy source.", "contents": "Growth yields and fermentation balance of Bacteroides fragilis cultured in glucose-enriched medium. Bacteroides fragilis is an obligate anaerobic bacterium classified with the gram-negative, non-sporeforming bacilli and is the Bacteroides species most frequently isolated from human infections. In the present study, experiments were designed to investigate growth characteristics of B. fragilis in a complex medium. In a minimal defined medium, which was employed for comparison purposes, B. fragilis grew with a generation time of 2 h. Growth of the organism in glucose-enriched medium used in the present study was superior. Maximum generation time was 60 min. Total and viable cells (colony-forming units) were 8.9 x 10(9) and 2.1 x 10(9), respectively, at maximum measurable growth. The molar growth yield (Ym) was 51.5. Growth yields were found to reach a maximum 2 to 3 h before maximum growth and to vary with respect to the phase of growth. Estimates of the fermentation products indicated that glucose was the sole energy substrate. Major products included acetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, and succinic acid. Other products included ethyl alcohol, pyruvic acid, and fumaric acid. No attempt was made to recover CO2 or formic acid. The OR balances from two experiments were 0.013 and -0.093 and the respective carbon recoveries were 6.268 and 6.241. The results of the present study show that B. fragilis is capable of rapid rates of growth in vitro by using glucose as the sole energy source.", "PMID": 438119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3844", "title": "Isolation and characterization of protoplasts from Saccharomyces rouxii.", "content": "Cells of the osmotolerant yeast Saccharomyces rouxii were transformed to protoplasts in good yield (85%) by digesting cell walls with snail-gut enzyme in the presence of 10 mM dithioerythritol, 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.8), and 2.0 M KCl. The requirement for 2.0 M KCl compares with that for S. bisporus var. mellis (another osmotolerant species) and contrasts with the 0.3 to 0.8 M KCl concentrations used in the preparation of most yeast protoplasts. Short digestions (60 min or less) produced mostly spheroplasts; longer incubations (90 min or more) yielded mostly protoplasts as judged by electron micrographs. These protoplasts could be transferred to 1.0 M KCl or 2.0 M sorbitol without lysing, but lysis was pronounced in 0.5 M KCl or 1.0 M mannitol and complete in 0.02 M KCl. Protoplasts were separated from isolated cell wall remnants and debris by centrifugation on a linear gradient of Ficoll 400 (35 to 17.5%, wt/vol) containing 2.0 M KCl. Both crude and fractionated protoplast preparations contained vesicles which were identified with the periplasmic bodies of whole cells. Some of the periplasmic bodies were connected to protoplasts by fine pedicels; others appeared free. Independent degeneracy of periplasmic bodies was occasionally observed. beta-Fructofuranosidase (EC 3.2.1.26) activity is cryptic (physically) in cells of S. rouxii in contrast to the expressed enzyme (periplasmic space) of other Saccharomyces species. This enzyme remains cryptic in protoplast preparations of S. rouxii but is expressed upon lysis. The same specific activities were found per unit cell or protoplast. The possible association of the cryptic enzyme with periplasmic bodies is discussed.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of protoplasts from Saccharomyces rouxii. Cells of the osmotolerant yeast Saccharomyces rouxii were transformed to protoplasts in good yield (85%) by digesting cell walls with snail-gut enzyme in the presence of 10 mM dithioerythritol, 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.8), and 2.0 M KCl. The requirement for 2.0 M KCl compares with that for S. bisporus var. mellis (another osmotolerant species) and contrasts with the 0.3 to 0.8 M KCl concentrations used in the preparation of most yeast protoplasts. Short digestions (60 min or less) produced mostly spheroplasts; longer incubations (90 min or more) yielded mostly protoplasts as judged by electron micrographs. These protoplasts could be transferred to 1.0 M KCl or 2.0 M sorbitol without lysing, but lysis was pronounced in 0.5 M KCl or 1.0 M mannitol and complete in 0.02 M KCl. Protoplasts were separated from isolated cell wall remnants and debris by centrifugation on a linear gradient of Ficoll 400 (35 to 17.5%, wt/vol) containing 2.0 M KCl. Both crude and fractionated protoplast preparations contained vesicles which were identified with the periplasmic bodies of whole cells. Some of the periplasmic bodies were connected to protoplasts by fine pedicels; others appeared free. Independent degeneracy of periplasmic bodies was occasionally observed. beta-Fructofuranosidase (EC 3.2.1.26) activity is cryptic (physically) in cells of S. rouxii in contrast to the expressed enzyme (periplasmic space) of other Saccharomyces species. This enzyme remains cryptic in protoplast preparations of S. rouxii but is expressed upon lysis. The same specific activities were found per unit cell or protoplast. The possible association of the cryptic enzyme with periplasmic bodies is discussed.", "PMID": 438120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3845", "title": "Axial filament involvement in the motility of Leptospira interrogans.", "content": "Motility mutants of Leptospira interrogans serovar illini were isolated and analyzed by dark-field and electron microscopy. Mutants were obtained by screening for small colonies after nitrosoguanidine treatment. One class of mutants did not have hook- or spiral-shaped ends. In addition, the axial filaments from these mutants were not coiled. An analysis of revertants of two of the mutants in this class indicated that the mutations were pleiotropic with respect to motility, hook- and spiral-shaped ends, and axial filament coiling. We conclude that the axial filaments and the hook- and spiral-shaped ends are involved in L. interrogans motility.", "contents": "Axial filament involvement in the motility of Leptospira interrogans. Motility mutants of Leptospira interrogans serovar illini were isolated and analyzed by dark-field and electron microscopy. Mutants were obtained by screening for small colonies after nitrosoguanidine treatment. One class of mutants did not have hook- or spiral-shaped ends. In addition, the axial filaments from these mutants were not coiled. An analysis of revertants of two of the mutants in this class indicated that the mutations were pleiotropic with respect to motility, hook- and spiral-shaped ends, and axial filament coiling. We conclude that the axial filaments and the hook- and spiral-shaped ends are involved in L. interrogans motility.", "PMID": 438121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3846", "title": "Helix handedness of Leptospira interrogans as determined by scanning electron microscopy.", "content": "Representative serovars and strains of the seven genetic groups of Leptospira interrogans, and two previously studied serovars, were all found to form exclusively right-handed helices as determined by scanning electron microscopy. No change in handedness occurred in cells grown in a minimal medium (Tween-80 albumin) compared to cells grown in a rich medium (rabbit serum). The right-handedness of the organisms was related to the evolution, cell wall structure, and the mechanism of motility of L. interrogans.", "contents": "Helix handedness of Leptospira interrogans as determined by scanning electron microscopy. Representative serovars and strains of the seven genetic groups of Leptospira interrogans, and two previously studied serovars, were all found to form exclusively right-handed helices as determined by scanning electron microscopy. No change in handedness occurred in cells grown in a minimal medium (Tween-80 albumin) compared to cells grown in a rich medium (rabbit serum). The right-handedness of the organisms was related to the evolution, cell wall structure, and the mechanism of motility of L. interrogans.", "PMID": 438122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3847", "title": "Association of flexing and gliding in Flexibacter.", "content": "Nongliding mutants of Flexibacter FS-1 are unable to flex; revertants regain both forms of movement. A variety of conditions and treatments reversibly inhibit both gliding and flexing.", "contents": "Association of flexing and gliding in Flexibacter. Nongliding mutants of Flexibacter FS-1 are unable to flex; revertants regain both forms of movement. A variety of conditions and treatments reversibly inhibit both gliding and flexing.", "PMID": 438123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3848", "title": "Deoxyribonucleic acid-mediated transformation of Spirillum lipoferum.", "content": "The methodology for deoxyribonucleic acid-mediated transformation of Spirillum lipoferum to resistance to various antimicrobial agents is reported.", "contents": "Deoxyribonucleic acid-mediated transformation of Spirillum lipoferum. The methodology for deoxyribonucleic acid-mediated transformation of Spirillum lipoferum to resistance to various antimicrobial agents is reported.", "PMID": 438124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3849", "title": "Fatty acids in phospholipids of cells, cysts, and germinating cysts of Azotobacter vinelandii.", "content": "Cyclopropane fatty acids constitute 25% of the phospholipid acyl groups in cysts of Azotobacter vinelandii. These are lost by dilution during germination when the synthesis of the fatty acids characteristic of vegetative cell phospholipids commences.", "contents": "Fatty acids in phospholipids of cells, cysts, and germinating cysts of Azotobacter vinelandii. Cyclopropane fatty acids constitute 25% of the phospholipid acyl groups in cysts of Azotobacter vinelandii. These are lost by dilution during germination when the synthesis of the fatty acids characteristic of vegetative cell phospholipids commences.", "PMID": 438125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3850", "title": "23S ribosomal ribonucleic acid of macrolide-producing streptomycetes contains methylated adenine.", "content": "Coresistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B-type (MLS) antibiotics by a common biochemical mechanism characterizes clinically resistant pathogens. Of 10 streptomycetes tested for resistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B-type antibiotics, only 1, Streptomyces erythreus, the organism used for production of erythromycin, was found resistant to all three classes; moreover, it was the only streptomycete in the series tested found to contain N6-dimethyladenine (m62A) in 23S ribosomal ribonucleic acid, the structural alteration of ribosomal ribonucleic acid associated with clinical resistance. Of the seven streptomycetes tested for the presence of m62A and N6-methyladenine (m6A), two, S. fradiae and S. cirratus, which produce the macrolide antibiotics tylosin and cirramycin, respectively, were found to contain m6A, but not m62A. The remaining strains tested, including strains which produce lincomycin and streptogramins, contained neither m6A nor m62A.", "contents": "23S ribosomal ribonucleic acid of macrolide-producing streptomycetes contains methylated adenine. Coresistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B-type (MLS) antibiotics by a common biochemical mechanism characterizes clinically resistant pathogens. Of 10 streptomycetes tested for resistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B-type antibiotics, only 1, Streptomyces erythreus, the organism used for production of erythromycin, was found resistant to all three classes; moreover, it was the only streptomycete in the series tested found to contain N6-dimethyladenine (m62A) in 23S ribosomal ribonucleic acid, the structural alteration of ribosomal ribonucleic acid associated with clinical resistance. Of the seven streptomycetes tested for the presence of m62A and N6-methyladenine (m6A), two, S. fradiae and S. cirratus, which produce the macrolide antibiotics tylosin and cirramycin, respectively, were found to contain m6A, but not m62A. The remaining strains tested, including strains which produce lincomycin and streptogramins, contained neither m6A nor m62A.", "PMID": 438126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3851", "title": "Suppression of polar effects of nonsense mutations by ultraviolet irradiation.", "content": "Nonsense mutations in capsid genes F and G of phages S13 and phi X174 decreased the expression of genes downstream. These polar effects were suppressed by ultraviolet irradiation of the host before infection. Activities of the downstream genes were restored to between 30 and 95% of their normal levels, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the viral proteins. The effect of ultraviolet irradiation may be to suppress rhodependent termination of transcription. The polarity of one mutation was poorly suppressed by ultraviolet irradiation.", "contents": "Suppression of polar effects of nonsense mutations by ultraviolet irradiation. Nonsense mutations in capsid genes F and G of phages S13 and phi X174 decreased the expression of genes downstream. These polar effects were suppressed by ultraviolet irradiation of the host before infection. Activities of the downstream genes were restored to between 30 and 95% of their normal levels, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the viral proteins. The effect of ultraviolet irradiation may be to suppress rhodependent termination of transcription. The polarity of one mutation was poorly suppressed by ultraviolet irradiation.", "PMID": 438127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3852", "title": "Location of peptidoglycan lytic enzymes in Bacillus sphaericus.", "content": "The level of three peptidoglycan hydrolases was determined in the mother cell compartment and forespores of Bacillus sphaericus. Vegetative and sporulating cells contained in LD-carboxypeptidase active only on the vegetative cell wall peptidoglycan, and we have previously shown that sporulation is accompanied by the production of two new enzymes active only on the spore cortex peptidoglycan. These gamma-D-glutamyl-meso-diaminopimelate endopeptidase and a meso-diaminopimelate-D-alanine dipeptidase. The LD-carboxypeptidase activity appeared to be located in the membranes of both the mother cells and forespores. Endopeptidase activity was located in the integument fraction of the forespores, and the dipeptidase activity was only found in the forespore cytoplasm. These different locations comply with the probable different functions of these enzymes.", "contents": "Location of peptidoglycan lytic enzymes in Bacillus sphaericus. The level of three peptidoglycan hydrolases was determined in the mother cell compartment and forespores of Bacillus sphaericus. Vegetative and sporulating cells contained in LD-carboxypeptidase active only on the vegetative cell wall peptidoglycan, and we have previously shown that sporulation is accompanied by the production of two new enzymes active only on the spore cortex peptidoglycan. These gamma-D-glutamyl-meso-diaminopimelate endopeptidase and a meso-diaminopimelate-D-alanine dipeptidase. The LD-carboxypeptidase activity appeared to be located in the membranes of both the mother cells and forespores. Endopeptidase activity was located in the integument fraction of the forespores, and the dipeptidase activity was only found in the forespore cytoplasm. These different locations comply with the probable different functions of these enzymes.", "PMID": 438128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3853", "title": "Superoxide dismutase and O2 lethality in Bacteroides fragilis.", "content": "Exposure of midlog Bacteroides fragils (VPI 2393) to 2% O2-98% N2 caused a three- to fivefold increase in superoxide dismutase specific activity within the cells. The increase in specific activity was completed within 90 min after exposure to oxygen and was dependent upon protein synthesis. Cells containing the higher superoxide dismutase level were more resistant to the effects of 5 atm of oxygen tension than were cells containing the lower level of superoxide dismutase but were equally resistant to 5 atm of nitrogen tension. Similar results were observed upon comparing viability experiments with B. fragilis and B. vulgatus. Superoxide dismutase activity in sonic extracts of B. fragilis was rapidly inactivated by exposure to 5 mM H2O2 and was inhibited by 1 mM NaN3 but not 5 mM NaCN. The inhibition pattern is identical to the pattern demonstrated for the purified iron-containing enzyme from Escherichia coli B and suggests that the superoxide dismutase in B. fragilis is an iron enzyme.", "contents": "Superoxide dismutase and O2 lethality in Bacteroides fragilis. Exposure of midlog Bacteroides fragils (VPI 2393) to 2% O2-98% N2 caused a three- to fivefold increase in superoxide dismutase specific activity within the cells. The increase in specific activity was completed within 90 min after exposure to oxygen and was dependent upon protein synthesis. Cells containing the higher superoxide dismutase level were more resistant to the effects of 5 atm of oxygen tension than were cells containing the lower level of superoxide dismutase but were equally resistant to 5 atm of nitrogen tension. Similar results were observed upon comparing viability experiments with B. fragilis and B. vulgatus. Superoxide dismutase activity in sonic extracts of B. fragilis was rapidly inactivated by exposure to 5 mM H2O2 and was inhibited by 1 mM NaN3 but not 5 mM NaCN. The inhibition pattern is identical to the pattern demonstrated for the purified iron-containing enzyme from Escherichia coli B and suggests that the superoxide dismutase in B. fragilis is an iron enzyme.", "PMID": 438129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3854", "title": "Modifiable chromatophore proteins in photosynthetic bacteria.", "content": "The chromatophores of Chromatium vinosum, as well as six other photosynthetic bacteria, contained two or more proteins which were insoluble when heated in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and 2-mercaptoethanol (beta-ME). When the chromatophores were dissolved at room temperature in SDS-beta-ME, these proteins were present in the SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis profiles, but when the samples were dissolved at 100 degrees C, they were absent or considerably diminished. When one-dimensional gels of chromatophores solubilized at room temperature were soaked in the SDS-beta-ME solution and heated to 100 degrees C and the gels were run in a second dimension, the proteins became immobilized in the original first-dimension gel, where they could be detected by staining. The two major proteins so affected in C. vinosum had apparent molecular weights of 28,000 and 21,000. The chromatophores of several other photosynthetic bacteria also contained predominant proteins between 30,000 and 19,000 molecular weight, which became insoluble when heated in the presence of SDS and beta-ME. In at least two of the species examined, these appeared to be reaction center proteins. The conditions causing the proteins to become insoluble were complex and involved temperature, SDS concentration, and the presence of sulfhydryl reagents. The chromatophores of four of the Chromatiaceae species and two strains of one of the Rhodospirillaceae species examined had a protein-pigment complex that was visible in SDS-polyacrylamide gel profiles of samples dissolved at room temperature but was absent in samples dissolved at 100 degrees C.", "contents": "Modifiable chromatophore proteins in photosynthetic bacteria. The chromatophores of Chromatium vinosum, as well as six other photosynthetic bacteria, contained two or more proteins which were insoluble when heated in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and 2-mercaptoethanol (beta-ME). When the chromatophores were dissolved at room temperature in SDS-beta-ME, these proteins were present in the SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis profiles, but when the samples were dissolved at 100 degrees C, they were absent or considerably diminished. When one-dimensional gels of chromatophores solubilized at room temperature were soaked in the SDS-beta-ME solution and heated to 100 degrees C and the gels were run in a second dimension, the proteins became immobilized in the original first-dimension gel, where they could be detected by staining. The two major proteins so affected in C. vinosum had apparent molecular weights of 28,000 and 21,000. The chromatophores of several other photosynthetic bacteria also contained predominant proteins between 30,000 and 19,000 molecular weight, which became insoluble when heated in the presence of SDS and beta-ME. In at least two of the species examined, these appeared to be reaction center proteins. The conditions causing the proteins to become insoluble were complex and involved temperature, SDS concentration, and the presence of sulfhydryl reagents. The chromatophores of four of the Chromatiaceae species and two strains of one of the Rhodospirillaceae species examined had a protein-pigment complex that was visible in SDS-polyacrylamide gel profiles of samples dissolved at room temperature but was absent in samples dissolved at 100 degrees C.", "PMID": 438130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3855", "title": "Arrays of hemispheric surface projections on Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia trachomatis observed by scanning electron microscopy.", "content": "Scanning microscopy of two strains of Chlamydia psittaci and four strains of Chlamydia trachomatis representative of the wide diversity in origin and behavior of members of the genus revealed patches of regular arrays of hemispheric projections on the surfaces of elementary bodies of all six strains. These distinctive and perhaps unique surface structure are probably present in all populations of chlamydiae.", "contents": "Arrays of hemispheric surface projections on Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia trachomatis observed by scanning electron microscopy. Scanning microscopy of two strains of Chlamydia psittaci and four strains of Chlamydia trachomatis representative of the wide diversity in origin and behavior of members of the genus revealed patches of regular arrays of hemispheric projections on the surfaces of elementary bodies of all six strains. These distinctive and perhaps unique surface structure are probably present in all populations of chlamydiae.", "PMID": 438131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3856", "title": "Bidirectional replication of the mini-ColE1 plasmid pVH51.", "content": "Replicating molecules of the min-ColE1 plasmid pVH51 have been examined by electron microscopy after cleavage with the restriction endonuclease EcoRI. Replication apparently starts at a unique site indistinguishable from the origin of replication used by the parental plasmid ColE1. In contrast to ColE1, the structure of the majority of the replication intermediates was consistent with a bidirectional mode of replication. A minor portion of the molecules appeared to replicate unidirectionally in either direction from the same origin.", "contents": "Bidirectional replication of the mini-ColE1 plasmid pVH51. Replicating molecules of the min-ColE1 plasmid pVH51 have been examined by electron microscopy after cleavage with the restriction endonuclease EcoRI. Replication apparently starts at a unique site indistinguishable from the origin of replication used by the parental plasmid ColE1. In contrast to ColE1, the structure of the majority of the replication intermediates was consistent with a bidirectional mode of replication. A minor portion of the molecules appeared to replicate unidirectionally in either direction from the same origin.", "PMID": 438132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3857", "title": "Isolation and characterization of a cycloheximide-resistant mutant of Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff.", "content": "A cycloheximide-resistant mutant was isolated from the amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff. Drug resistance was found to be due to a ribosomal modification.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of a cycloheximide-resistant mutant of Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff. A cycloheximide-resistant mutant was isolated from the amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff. Drug resistance was found to be due to a ribosomal modification.", "PMID": 438133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3858", "title": "Fatty acid composition of lipopolysaccharides of Vibrio cholerae 35A3 (Inaba), NIB 90 (Ogawa), and 4715 (Nag).", "content": "Considerable amounts of odd-numbered fatty acids, such as non-hydroxy C15 and C17 and 3-hydroxy C11 and C13 acids, were found in lipopolysaccharides from Vibrio cholerae 35A3 (Inaba).", "contents": "Fatty acid composition of lipopolysaccharides of Vibrio cholerae 35A3 (Inaba), NIB 90 (Ogawa), and 4715 (Nag). Considerable amounts of odd-numbered fatty acids, such as non-hydroxy C15 and C17 and 3-hydroxy C11 and C13 acids, were found in lipopolysaccharides from Vibrio cholerae 35A3 (Inaba).", "PMID": 438134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3859", "title": "Induction and catabolite repression of L-rhamnose dehydrogenase in Pullularia pullulans.", "content": "The growth of Pullularia pullulans on L-rhamnose (6-deoxy-L-mannose) as the sole carbon source induces the synthesis of L-rhamnose dehydrogenase, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of the deoxy sugar to L-rhamnonolactone. The enzyme induction is inhibited by cycloheximide, suggesting de novo synthesis. The presence of d-glucose (0.2%) or D-galactose (0.2%) simultaneously with the inducer in the induction medium produced 50% repression of dehydrogenase synthesis, but no effect was detected with D-fructose and D-mannose at the same concentration. High levels of D-glucose (2%), under maximal catabolite repression conditions, produced a complete inhibition of enzyme synthesis.", "contents": "Induction and catabolite repression of L-rhamnose dehydrogenase in Pullularia pullulans. The growth of Pullularia pullulans on L-rhamnose (6-deoxy-L-mannose) as the sole carbon source induces the synthesis of L-rhamnose dehydrogenase, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of the deoxy sugar to L-rhamnonolactone. The enzyme induction is inhibited by cycloheximide, suggesting de novo synthesis. The presence of d-glucose (0.2%) or D-galactose (0.2%) simultaneously with the inducer in the induction medium produced 50% repression of dehydrogenase synthesis, but no effect was detected with D-fructose and D-mannose at the same concentration. High levels of D-glucose (2%), under maximal catabolite repression conditions, produced a complete inhibition of enzyme synthesis.", "PMID": 438135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3860", "title": "Amino acid catabolism and malic enzyme in differentiating Dictyostelium discoideum.", "content": "Amino acids produced from protein degradation are the major energy source for differentiation and aging in Dictyostelium discoideum. Considering the reactions involved in the conversion of amino acids from an average protein into tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates, a route from a cycle intermediate (probably malate) to acetyl coenzyme A is required for the complete utilization of amino acids. Citrate was isolated from cells pulse-labeled with (14)C-labeled amino acids and was cleaved with citrate lyase. When cells were pulse-labeled with [U-(14)C]-glutamate the specific radioactivity of the acetate and oxaloacetate portions of citrate were consistent with the conclusion that one-third of the carbon flowing through the tricarboxylic acid cycle is removed for the synthesis of acetyl coenzyme A. The data were also consistent with the patterns of carbon flux required to maintain steady-state levels of cycle intermediates in cells catabolizing amino acids. It is suggested that the malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.40) catalyzes the synthesis of acetyl coenzyme A from malate and is responsible for the observed citrate labeling pattern. In cell extracts the activity of this enzyme increased markedly with the onset of differentiation. The properties of partially purified (40-fold) malic enzyme isolated at culmination indicated that the enzyme was allosteric and was positively affected by aspartate and glutamate. Thus, amino acid production from protein degradation would stimulate a reaction essential for the efficient utilization of these amino acids for energy.", "contents": "Amino acid catabolism and malic enzyme in differentiating Dictyostelium discoideum. Amino acids produced from protein degradation are the major energy source for differentiation and aging in Dictyostelium discoideum. Considering the reactions involved in the conversion of amino acids from an average protein into tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates, a route from a cycle intermediate (probably malate) to acetyl coenzyme A is required for the complete utilization of amino acids. Citrate was isolated from cells pulse-labeled with (14)C-labeled amino acids and was cleaved with citrate lyase. When cells were pulse-labeled with [U-(14)C]-glutamate the specific radioactivity of the acetate and oxaloacetate portions of citrate were consistent with the conclusion that one-third of the carbon flowing through the tricarboxylic acid cycle is removed for the synthesis of acetyl coenzyme A. The data were also consistent with the patterns of carbon flux required to maintain steady-state levels of cycle intermediates in cells catabolizing amino acids. It is suggested that the malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.40) catalyzes the synthesis of acetyl coenzyme A from malate and is responsible for the observed citrate labeling pattern. In cell extracts the activity of this enzyme increased markedly with the onset of differentiation. The properties of partially purified (40-fold) malic enzyme isolated at culmination indicated that the enzyme was allosteric and was positively affected by aspartate and glutamate. Thus, amino acid production from protein degradation would stimulate a reaction essential for the efficient utilization of these amino acids for energy.", "PMID": 438136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3861", "title": "Temperature-sensitive mutants of Physarum polycephalum: viability, growth, and nuclear replication.", "content": "Using a selfing strain of Physarum polycephalum that forms haploid plasmodia, we have isolated temperature-sensitive growth mutants in two ways. The negative selectant, netropsin, was used to enrich for temperature-sensitive mutants among a population of mutagenized amoebae, and, separately, a nonselective screening method was used to isolate plasmodial temperature-sensitive mutants among clonal plasmodia derived from mutagenized amoebae. Complementation in heterokaryons was used to sort the mutants into nine functional groups. When transferred to the restrictive temperature, two mutants immediately lysed, whereas the remainder slowed or stopped growing. Of the two lytic mutants, one affected both amoebae and plasmodia, and the other affected plasmodia alone. The growth-defective mutants were examined for protein and deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis and for aberrations in mitotic behavior. One mutant may be defective in both protein and deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis, and another only in deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. The latter shows a striking reduction in the frequency of postmitotic reconstruction nuclei at the restrictive temperature. We believe that this mutant, MA67, is affected in a step in the nuclear replication cycle occurring late in G2. Execution of this step is necessary for both mitosis and chromosome replication.", "contents": "Temperature-sensitive mutants of Physarum polycephalum: viability, growth, and nuclear replication. Using a selfing strain of Physarum polycephalum that forms haploid plasmodia, we have isolated temperature-sensitive growth mutants in two ways. The negative selectant, netropsin, was used to enrich for temperature-sensitive mutants among a population of mutagenized amoebae, and, separately, a nonselective screening method was used to isolate plasmodial temperature-sensitive mutants among clonal plasmodia derived from mutagenized amoebae. Complementation in heterokaryons was used to sort the mutants into nine functional groups. When transferred to the restrictive temperature, two mutants immediately lysed, whereas the remainder slowed or stopped growing. Of the two lytic mutants, one affected both amoebae and plasmodia, and the other affected plasmodia alone. The growth-defective mutants were examined for protein and deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis and for aberrations in mitotic behavior. One mutant may be defective in both protein and deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis, and another only in deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. The latter shows a striking reduction in the frequency of postmitotic reconstruction nuclei at the restrictive temperature. We believe that this mutant, MA67, is affected in a step in the nuclear replication cycle occurring late in G2. Execution of this step is necessary for both mitosis and chromosome replication.", "PMID": 438137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3862", "title": "Respiration in the yeast and mycelial phases of Histoplasma capsulatum.", "content": "Respiration in the yeast and mycelial phases of Histoplasma capsulatum proceeds via a cytochrome system and an alternate oxidase, both present constitutively. The mycelial cytochrome system is distinguished by an additional partial shunt around the antimycin-sensitive site.", "contents": "Respiration in the yeast and mycelial phases of Histoplasma capsulatum. Respiration in the yeast and mycelial phases of Histoplasma capsulatum proceeds via a cytochrome system and an alternate oxidase, both present constitutively. The mycelial cytochrome system is distinguished by an additional partial shunt around the antimycin-sensitive site.", "PMID": 438138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3863", "title": "Presence of a major (storage?) protein in dormant spores of the fungus Botryodiplodia theobromae.", "content": "Approximately 23% of the protein isolated from dormant spores of Botryodiplodia theobromae consisted of a single polypeptide; the polypeptide is probably degraded during germination.", "contents": "Presence of a major (storage?) protein in dormant spores of the fungus Botryodiplodia theobromae. Approximately 23% of the protein isolated from dormant spores of Botryodiplodia theobromae consisted of a single polypeptide; the polypeptide is probably degraded during germination.", "PMID": 438139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3864", "title": "The difficult patient: identification and response.", "content": "A group of \"difficult\" psychiatric outpatients in a university hospital system was identified and its distinguishing characteristics compared to a sample of other psychiatric outpatients not so labeled. \"Difficult\" patients were perceived to be significantly more demanding (p less than or equal to 0.005), dangerous, difficult to empathize with, manipulative and likely to polarize the staff. These patient were perceived differently by physician and nonphysican staff. An analysis revealed that a major source of \"difficulty\" appeared to be the structure of the treatment system rather than the patient. A corrective strategy was devised to test this hypothesis.", "contents": "The difficult patient: identification and response. A group of \"difficult\" psychiatric outpatients in a university hospital system was identified and its distinguishing characteristics compared to a sample of other psychiatric outpatients not so labeled. \"Difficult\" patients were perceived to be significantly more demanding (p less than or equal to 0.005), dangerous, difficult to empathize with, manipulative and likely to polarize the staff. These patient were perceived differently by physician and nonphysican staff. An analysis revealed that a major source of \"difficulty\" appeared to be the structure of the treatment system rather than the patient. A corrective strategy was devised to test this hypothesis.", "PMID": 438141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3865", "title": "Electroencephalographic abnormalities in suicidal patients.", "content": "Struve has suggested that paroxysmal EEG abnormality is considerably more frequent in suicidal psychiatric inpatients than in nonsuicidal psychiatric inpatients. In order to see if these observations were confirmed in other populations, the Zung Index of Potential Suicide and scalp EEG were administered to 216 consecutively admitted VA psychiatric inpatients. The results indicated only slightly greater EEG abnormality in suicidal patients (14.9%), than in nonsuicidal patients (6.6%) statistical analysis failed to support either a general association between overall EEG abnormality and suicidal behavior, or the specific association between paroxysmal EEG abnormality and suicidal behavior, reported by Struve. Some of the data suggested that further EEG observations might be worthwhile on patients in the Threatener subcategory of suicidal behavior.", "contents": "Electroencephalographic abnormalities in suicidal patients. Struve has suggested that paroxysmal EEG abnormality is considerably more frequent in suicidal psychiatric inpatients than in nonsuicidal psychiatric inpatients. In order to see if these observations were confirmed in other populations, the Zung Index of Potential Suicide and scalp EEG were administered to 216 consecutively admitted VA psychiatric inpatients. The results indicated only slightly greater EEG abnormality in suicidal patients (14.9%), than in nonsuicidal patients (6.6%) statistical analysis failed to support either a general association between overall EEG abnormality and suicidal behavior, or the specific association between paroxysmal EEG abnormality and suicidal behavior, reported by Struve. Some of the data suggested that further EEG observations might be worthwhile on patients in the Threatener subcategory of suicidal behavior.", "PMID": 438142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3866", "title": "Wechsler variables as a function of age and neurologic status.", "content": "Scores on Wechsler variables were analyzed in groups of patients broken down by age and neurologic status. No differences as a function of age were found in intelligence or memory. Timed Performance subtest results were related to age, but apparent Verbal subtest age differences were eliminated by the introduction of education as a covariate. Neurologic status showed significant effects on intelligence and memory and on all but 3 Wechsler subtests. No significant interactions between age and neurologic status were seen.", "contents": "Wechsler variables as a function of age and neurologic status. Scores on Wechsler variables were analyzed in groups of patients broken down by age and neurologic status. No differences as a function of age were found in intelligence or memory. Timed Performance subtest results were related to age, but apparent Verbal subtest age differences were eliminated by the introduction of education as a covariate. Neurologic status showed significant effects on intelligence and memory and on all but 3 Wechsler subtests. No significant interactions between age and neurologic status were seen.", "PMID": 438143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3867", "title": "Evaluation of day treatment center effectiveness.", "content": "A study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of the Day Treatment Center as an alternative to rehospitalization for chronic psychiatric patients. The project utilized a subject as his own control design comparing equal time intervals before and during Day Treatment Center involvement. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the Day Treatment Center as a therapeutic modality that not only helps prevent hospitalization, but also assists in decreasing the average length of stay when admission is unavoidable.", "contents": "Evaluation of day treatment center effectiveness. A study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of the Day Treatment Center as an alternative to rehospitalization for chronic psychiatric patients. The project utilized a subject as his own control design comparing equal time intervals before and during Day Treatment Center involvement. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the Day Treatment Center as a therapeutic modality that not only helps prevent hospitalization, but also assists in decreasing the average length of stay when admission is unavoidable.", "PMID": 438144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3868", "title": "Nocturnal levels of growth hormone in hyperactive children of small stature.", "content": "Growth disturbances have been demonstrated in hyperactive children treated with stimulant medication. This study examines sleep related growth hormone secretion in patients with hyperactive syndrome and relative short stature. Five such patients were compared with 9 age matched controls. There were no differences in sleep patterns, and growth hormone levels for the hyperactive children were within normal limits. This study suggests that hyperactive children with short stature have normal sleep patterns and normal sleep related growth hormone secretion.", "contents": "Nocturnal levels of growth hormone in hyperactive children of small stature. Growth disturbances have been demonstrated in hyperactive children treated with stimulant medication. This study examines sleep related growth hormone secretion in patients with hyperactive syndrome and relative short stature. Five such patients were compared with 9 age matched controls. There were no differences in sleep patterns, and growth hormone levels for the hyperactive children were within normal limits. This study suggests that hyperactive children with short stature have normal sleep patterns and normal sleep related growth hormone secretion.", "PMID": 438145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3869", "title": "The uses of seclusion on a general hospital psychiatric unit.", "content": "Seclusion was used in the management of 36.6% of the patients on a general hospital psychiatric unit during a 6 month prospective study. It was initiated most frequently to decrease stimulation for agitated patients with poor impulse control, between 10 pm and 2 am, and when the unit census was high. Patients who required seclusion were significantly younger, hospitalized longer, more often manic and received pharmacotherapy more frequently. No correlation was found between nursing staff age and psychiatric experience and the frequency that they initiated seclusion. The value of seclusion during a medication-free diagnostic assessment period is discussed.", "contents": "The uses of seclusion on a general hospital psychiatric unit. Seclusion was used in the management of 36.6% of the patients on a general hospital psychiatric unit during a 6 month prospective study. It was initiated most frequently to decrease stimulation for agitated patients with poor impulse control, between 10 pm and 2 am, and when the unit census was high. Patients who required seclusion were significantly younger, hospitalized longer, more often manic and received pharmacotherapy more frequently. No correlation was found between nursing staff age and psychiatric experience and the frequency that they initiated seclusion. The value of seclusion during a medication-free diagnostic assessment period is discussed.", "PMID": 438146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3870", "title": "Repertory grid and biochemical characterization of depression: a comparison of case reports.", "content": "Two cases of depression are presented: One which responded to psychotherapy and the other which responded to medication. These cases were evaluated by repertory grid analysis and by biochemical analysis. These results serve as the basis for a discussion of the use of such analysis as predictors of response in depression to psychotherapy or medication.", "contents": "Repertory grid and biochemical characterization of depression: a comparison of case reports. Two cases of depression are presented: One which responded to psychotherapy and the other which responded to medication. These cases were evaluated by repertory grid analysis and by biochemical analysis. These results serve as the basis for a discussion of the use of such analysis as predictors of response in depression to psychotherapy or medication.", "PMID": 438147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3871", "title": "Delirium associated with combined fluphenazine-clonidine therapy.", "content": "The authors report a case of acute organic brain syndrome in a patient being treated with clonidine and fluphenazine that cleared when clonidine was discontinued. Theoretical considerations of dopamine-norephinephrine interactions are discussed in the context of the drug-drug interaction.", "contents": "Delirium associated with combined fluphenazine-clonidine therapy. The authors report a case of acute organic brain syndrome in a patient being treated with clonidine and fluphenazine that cleared when clonidine was discontinued. Theoretical considerations of dopamine-norephinephrine interactions are discussed in the context of the drug-drug interaction.", "PMID": 438148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3872", "title": "Immunoglobulin G antibodies to herpes simplex type 1 virus detected by radioimmunoassay in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with schizophrenia.", "content": "Serum and CSF specimens from 16 schizophrenic patients and 18 nonpsychiatric controls were tested by radioimmunoassay for immunoglobulin G antibody of capsid, envelope and excreted antigens of herpes simplex type 1 virus. There were no significant differences in the antibody levels between the schizophrenic patients and the controls. The etiological role of viruses and virus-like agents in schizophrenia and some methodological aspects are discussed.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin G antibodies to herpes simplex type 1 virus detected by radioimmunoassay in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with schizophrenia. Serum and CSF specimens from 16 schizophrenic patients and 18 nonpsychiatric controls were tested by radioimmunoassay for immunoglobulin G antibody of capsid, envelope and excreted antigens of herpes simplex type 1 virus. There were no significant differences in the antibody levels between the schizophrenic patients and the controls. The etiological role of viruses and virus-like agents in schizophrenia and some methodological aspects are discussed.", "PMID": 438149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3873", "title": "Structural characteristics of interferons from mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells.", "content": "An improved procedure for the isolation of interferons produced by mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells infected with Newcastle disease virus provides interferons of three size classes (33,000, 26,000, and 20,000 daltons) with specific activities between 2 and 3 x 10(9) units/mg of protein and a yield of 11 to 20%. The tryptic peptide maps of the two larger species are very similar; that of the smallest species is different, at least in part. The amino acid compositions of the three species are very close. Their NH2-terminal amino acids are identical and so are the amino acids released by carboxypeptidase A treatment. These data are consistent with the possibility that the differences in size between the three species may be due, at least in part, to unequal glycosylation.", "contents": "Structural characteristics of interferons from mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. An improved procedure for the isolation of interferons produced by mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells infected with Newcastle disease virus provides interferons of three size classes (33,000, 26,000, and 20,000 daltons) with specific activities between 2 and 3 x 10(9) units/mg of protein and a yield of 11 to 20%. The tryptic peptide maps of the two larger species are very similar; that of the smallest species is different, at least in part. The amino acid compositions of the three species are very close. Their NH2-terminal amino acids are identical and so are the amino acids released by carboxypeptidase A treatment. These data are consistent with the possibility that the differences in size between the three species may be due, at least in part, to unequal glycosylation.", "PMID": 438151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3874", "title": "Identification of in vitro synthesized pituitary glycoprotein alpha subunit. Translation of a possible precursor.", "content": "Bovine pituitary RNA was translated in heterologous cell-free systems derived from wheat germ and reticulocyte lysate. Analyses of the cell-free products by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed three major proteins, exhibiting apparent molecular weights of 25,000, 24,000, and 14,000. The two larger products were identified as preprolactin and pregrowth hormone by immunoprecipitation and thus demonstrated the fidelity of pituitary RNA translation. The 14,000-dalton product was shown to be immuno-precipitable with specific bovine lutropin (LH)alpha antisera. Since this protein is 3000 to 4000 daltons larger than the apoprotein form of the alpha subunits, it suggests that the subunit is synthesized in precursor form. The immunological specificity was further demonstrated by the successful competition with unlabeled alpha subunit plus the failure to immunoprecipitate this product using specific antisera to other pituitary hormones. Although specific antisera to bTSH(thyrotropin)beta and bLH(lutropin)beta failed to immunoprecipitate the 14,000-dalton product, LHbeta antisera precipitated a product with a molecular weight of approximately 18,000. Since the alpha and beta antisera specifically precipitated different products, and since a larger immunoprecipitable product was not detected, the results suggest that the two subunits are synthesized separately.", "contents": "Identification of in vitro synthesized pituitary glycoprotein alpha subunit. Translation of a possible precursor. Bovine pituitary RNA was translated in heterologous cell-free systems derived from wheat germ and reticulocyte lysate. Analyses of the cell-free products by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed three major proteins, exhibiting apparent molecular weights of 25,000, 24,000, and 14,000. The two larger products were identified as preprolactin and pregrowth hormone by immunoprecipitation and thus demonstrated the fidelity of pituitary RNA translation. The 14,000-dalton product was shown to be immuno-precipitable with specific bovine lutropin (LH)alpha antisera. Since this protein is 3000 to 4000 daltons larger than the apoprotein form of the alpha subunits, it suggests that the subunit is synthesized in precursor form. The immunological specificity was further demonstrated by the successful competition with unlabeled alpha subunit plus the failure to immunoprecipitate this product using specific antisera to other pituitary hormones. Although specific antisera to bTSH(thyrotropin)beta and bLH(lutropin)beta failed to immunoprecipitate the 14,000-dalton product, LHbeta antisera precipitated a product with a molecular weight of approximately 18,000. Since the alpha and beta antisera specifically precipitated different products, and since a larger immunoprecipitable product was not detected, the results suggest that the two subunits are synthesized separately.", "PMID": 438152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3875", "title": "Calcium-dependent activation of a multifunctional protein kinase by membrane phospholipids.", "content": "The proenzyme of a Ca2+-dependent protease-activated protein kinase previously obtained from mammalian tissues (Inoue, M., Kishimoto, A., Takai, Y., and Nishizuka, Y. (1977) J. Biol. Chem. 252, 7610-7616) was enzymatically fully active without limited proteolysis when Ca2+ and a membrane-associated factor were simultaneously present in the reaction mixture. The activation process was reversed by removing Ca2+ with ethylene glycol bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid. An apparent Ka value for Ca2+ was less than 5 x 10(-5) M. Other divalent cations were inactive except for Sr2+, which was 5% as active as Ca2+. The factor was almost exclusively localized in membrane fractions of various tissues including brain, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, blood cells, and adipose tissue. It was easily extractable with chloroform/methanol (2:1), and was recovered in the phospholipid fraction. In fact, this membrane factor could be replaced by chromatographically pure phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidic acid, or diphosphatidylglycerol. Phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin were far less effective under the comparable conditions. Ca2+-dependent modulator protein was unable to support enzymatic activity. The enzyme thus activated showed an ability to phosphorylate five histone fractions and muscle phosphorylase kinase, and appeared to possess multifunctional catalytic activities.", "contents": "Calcium-dependent activation of a multifunctional protein kinase by membrane phospholipids. The proenzyme of a Ca2+-dependent protease-activated protein kinase previously obtained from mammalian tissues (Inoue, M., Kishimoto, A., Takai, Y., and Nishizuka, Y. (1977) J. Biol. Chem. 252, 7610-7616) was enzymatically fully active without limited proteolysis when Ca2+ and a membrane-associated factor were simultaneously present in the reaction mixture. The activation process was reversed by removing Ca2+ with ethylene glycol bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid. An apparent Ka value for Ca2+ was less than 5 x 10(-5) M. Other divalent cations were inactive except for Sr2+, which was 5% as active as Ca2+. The factor was almost exclusively localized in membrane fractions of various tissues including brain, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, blood cells, and adipose tissue. It was easily extractable with chloroform/methanol (2:1), and was recovered in the phospholipid fraction. In fact, this membrane factor could be replaced by chromatographically pure phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidic acid, or diphosphatidylglycerol. Phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin were far less effective under the comparable conditions. Ca2+-dependent modulator protein was unable to support enzymatic activity. The enzyme thus activated showed an ability to phosphorylate five histone fractions and muscle phosphorylase kinase, and appeared to possess multifunctional catalytic activities.", "PMID": 438153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3876", "title": "Developmental change and genetic defect in the carbohydrate structure of band 3 glycoprotein of human erythrocyte membrane.", "content": "The chemical structure of Band 3 glycopeptide prepared from erythrocytes of normal adult (blood group OI), umbilical cord vessels (Oi), and an i adult variant who fails to develop I antigen (Oi), has been compared. Band 3 glycopeptide of cord erythrocytes gave, on permethylation analysis, predominantly 2,4,6-tri-O-methylgalactose and 3,6-di-O-methyl-2-N-methylacetamido-2-deoxyglucose, whereas the same glycopeptide of normal adult erythrocytes gave much higher amounts of 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-methylgalactose and 2,4-di-O-methylgalactose as compared with that of cord erythrocytes. Band 3 glycopeptide from i adult showed the same methylation pattern as cord-Band 3 glycopeptide. In accordance with these results, Band 3 glycopeptide of cord and i adult erythrocytes were hydrolyzed to mostly small oligosaccharides by endo-beta-galactosidase from Escherichia freundii, whereas that of normal adult produced a number of oligosaccharides with various sizes which was caused by branched structures. Based on these results and structures of released oligosaccharides, the major developmental change of carbohydrate structure in the erythrocyte membrane is the conversion of linear repeating Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 3Gal to a branched Galbeta 1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta 1 leads to 3 (R leads to 6) Gal structure. i individual may result from the lack of the branching enzyme.", "contents": "Developmental change and genetic defect in the carbohydrate structure of band 3 glycoprotein of human erythrocyte membrane. The chemical structure of Band 3 glycopeptide prepared from erythrocytes of normal adult (blood group OI), umbilical cord vessels (Oi), and an i adult variant who fails to develop I antigen (Oi), has been compared. Band 3 glycopeptide of cord erythrocytes gave, on permethylation analysis, predominantly 2,4,6-tri-O-methylgalactose and 3,6-di-O-methyl-2-N-methylacetamido-2-deoxyglucose, whereas the same glycopeptide of normal adult erythrocytes gave much higher amounts of 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-methylgalactose and 2,4-di-O-methylgalactose as compared with that of cord erythrocytes. Band 3 glycopeptide from i adult showed the same methylation pattern as cord-Band 3 glycopeptide. In accordance with these results, Band 3 glycopeptide of cord and i adult erythrocytes were hydrolyzed to mostly small oligosaccharides by endo-beta-galactosidase from Escherichia freundii, whereas that of normal adult produced a number of oligosaccharides with various sizes which was caused by branched structures. Based on these results and structures of released oligosaccharides, the major developmental change of carbohydrate structure in the erythrocyte membrane is the conversion of linear repeating Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 3Gal to a branched Galbeta 1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta 1 leads to 3 (R leads to 6) Gal structure. i individual may result from the lack of the branching enzyme.", "PMID": 438154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3877", "title": "Evidence that a single GTP is used in the formation of 80 S initiation complexes.", "content": "Evidence is presented that the GTP initially bound in ternary complex (Met-tRNAf.GTP.eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2)) is the same GTP that is hydrolyzed to allow joining of a 40 S preinitiation complex with 60 S subunits. This evidence was obtained by two quite dissimilar techniques. The first was a kinetic analysis of AUG-directed methionyl-puromycin synthesis using either eIF-2 of eIF-2A to direct the binding of Met-tRNAf to 40 S subunits. The second technique was the isolation of 40 S preinitiation complexes by Sepharose 6B chromatography and subsequent quantitation of GTP hydrolysis and methionyl-puromycin synthesis under conditions where 80 S complex formation is permitted.", "contents": "Evidence that a single GTP is used in the formation of 80 S initiation complexes. Evidence is presented that the GTP initially bound in ternary complex (Met-tRNAf.GTP.eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2)) is the same GTP that is hydrolyzed to allow joining of a 40 S preinitiation complex with 60 S subunits. This evidence was obtained by two quite dissimilar techniques. The first was a kinetic analysis of AUG-directed methionyl-puromycin synthesis using either eIF-2 of eIF-2A to direct the binding of Met-tRNAf to 40 S subunits. The second technique was the isolation of 40 S preinitiation complexes by Sepharose 6B chromatography and subsequent quantitation of GTP hydrolysis and methionyl-puromycin synthesis under conditions where 80 S complex formation is permitted.", "PMID": 438155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3878", "title": "Demonstration of a rat liver microsomal binding protein specific for beta-glucuronidase.", "content": "A binding protein with apparent specificity for beta-glucuronidase has been partially purified from a Triton X-100 extract of rat liver microsomes by affinity chromatography on glucuronidase-Sepharose 2B. It appears that once removed from the membrane, this binding protein self-aggregates to form large macromolecular complexes. With the use of polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic and sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation assays to monitor the conversion of glucuronidase tetramer to a very high molecular weight complex, it was shown that the binding activity is heatlabile and protease-sensitive. However, binding activity is not influenced by salts, carbohydrates, other proteins or glycoproteins, or by extensive periodate oxidation of beta-glucuronidase, nor does binding occur with any other protein tested. The binding protein does not discriminate against any form of beta-glucuronidase from any rat organ tested. However, the binding protein does show organ localization, being present in the liver and kidney but not the spleen. The possible relationship of this binding protein to egasyn, a membrane protein which stabilizes beta-glucuronidase in mouse liver endoplasmic reticulum, is discussed.", "contents": "Demonstration of a rat liver microsomal binding protein specific for beta-glucuronidase. A binding protein with apparent specificity for beta-glucuronidase has been partially purified from a Triton X-100 extract of rat liver microsomes by affinity chromatography on glucuronidase-Sepharose 2B. It appears that once removed from the membrane, this binding protein self-aggregates to form large macromolecular complexes. With the use of polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic and sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation assays to monitor the conversion of glucuronidase tetramer to a very high molecular weight complex, it was shown that the binding activity is heatlabile and protease-sensitive. However, binding activity is not influenced by salts, carbohydrates, other proteins or glycoproteins, or by extensive periodate oxidation of beta-glucuronidase, nor does binding occur with any other protein tested. The binding protein does not discriminate against any form of beta-glucuronidase from any rat organ tested. However, the binding protein does show organ localization, being present in the liver and kidney but not the spleen. The possible relationship of this binding protein to egasyn, a membrane protein which stabilizes beta-glucuronidase in mouse liver endoplasmic reticulum, is discussed.", "PMID": 438156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3879", "title": "Protonmotive force and catecholamine transport in isolated chromaffin granules.", "content": "The effect of the transmembrane potential (delta psi) and the proton concentration gradient (delta pH) across the chromaffin granule membrane upon the rate and extent of catecholamine accumulation was studied in isolated bovine chromaffin granules. Freshly isolated chromaffin granules had an intragranular pH of 5.5 as measured by [14C]methylamine distribution. The addition of ATP to a suspension of granules resulted in the generation of a membrane potential, positive inside, as measured by [14C]thiocyanate (SCN-) distribution. The addition of carboxyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP), a proton translocator, resulted in a reversal of the potential to negative values (measured by [3H]tetramethylphenylphosphonium (TPMP+)) approaching -90 mV. Changing the external pH of a granular suspension incubated with FCCP produced a linear perturbation in the measured potential from positive to negative values, which can be explained by the distribution of protons according to their electrochemical gradient. When ammonia (1 to 50 mM) was added to highly buffered suspensions of chromaffin granules there was a dose-dependent decrease in the transmembrane proton gradient (delta pH) and an increase in the membrane potential (delta psi). On the other hand, thiocyanate or FCCP, at varying concentration, produced a dose-related collapse of the membrane potential and had no effect upon the transmembrane proton gradient. The addition of larger concentrations of catecholamines caused a decrease in the transmembrane proton gradient and an increase in the membrane potential. Time-resolved influx of catecholamines into the granules was studied radiochemically using low external catecholamine concentrations. The accumulation of epinephrine or norepinephrine was over one order of magnitude greater in the presence of ATP than in its absence. The rate and extent of amine accumulation was found to be related to the magnitude of the membrane potential at fixed transmembrane proton concentration (delta pH) values. Likewise, the accumulation was related to the magnitude of the delta pH at fixed membrane potential values. These results suggest that the existence of both a transmembrane proton gradient and a membrane potential are required for optimal catecholamine accumulation to occur.", "contents": "Protonmotive force and catecholamine transport in isolated chromaffin granules. The effect of the transmembrane potential (delta psi) and the proton concentration gradient (delta pH) across the chromaffin granule membrane upon the rate and extent of catecholamine accumulation was studied in isolated bovine chromaffin granules. Freshly isolated chromaffin granules had an intragranular pH of 5.5 as measured by [14C]methylamine distribution. The addition of ATP to a suspension of granules resulted in the generation of a membrane potential, positive inside, as measured by [14C]thiocyanate (SCN-) distribution. The addition of carboxyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP), a proton translocator, resulted in a reversal of the potential to negative values (measured by [3H]tetramethylphenylphosphonium (TPMP+)) approaching -90 mV. Changing the external pH of a granular suspension incubated with FCCP produced a linear perturbation in the measured potential from positive to negative values, which can be explained by the distribution of protons according to their electrochemical gradient. When ammonia (1 to 50 mM) was added to highly buffered suspensions of chromaffin granules there was a dose-dependent decrease in the transmembrane proton gradient (delta pH) and an increase in the membrane potential (delta psi). On the other hand, thiocyanate or FCCP, at varying concentration, produced a dose-related collapse of the membrane potential and had no effect upon the transmembrane proton gradient. The addition of larger concentrations of catecholamines caused a decrease in the transmembrane proton gradient and an increase in the membrane potential. Time-resolved influx of catecholamines into the granules was studied radiochemically using low external catecholamine concentrations. The accumulation of epinephrine or norepinephrine was over one order of magnitude greater in the presence of ATP than in its absence. The rate and extent of amine accumulation was found to be related to the magnitude of the membrane potential at fixed transmembrane proton concentration (delta pH) values. Likewise, the accumulation was related to the magnitude of the delta pH at fixed membrane potential values. These results suggest that the existence of both a transmembrane proton gradient and a membrane potential are required for optimal catecholamine accumulation to occur.", "PMID": 438157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3880", "title": "Effect of polyanions on the kinetics of the reaction of apohemoglobin with carbonmonoxy heme.", "content": "The reaction of apohemoglobin with carbonmonoxy heme and with carbonmonoxy heme dimethyl ester was investigated in the presence and absence of inositol hexaphosphate. The binding stoichiometry of both heme derivatives to apohemoglobin was not affected by the presence of the polyphosphate, while, in both cases, the overall rate of recombination was substantially decreased. The absence of the negatively charged carboxyl groups in the dimethyl ester derivative of the heme indicated that the effect of inositol hexaphosphate on the reaction of apohemoglobin with heme was not due to electrostatic repulsions and resulted from conformational changes occurring upon the interaction of apohemoglobin with inositol hexaphosphate. Qualitative treatment of the kinetic data suggests that these conformational changes destabilize the intermediates of the reaction by increasing their redissociation into the original components. Also, benzenehexacarboxylate produced conformational changes in apohemoglobin and decreased its rate of reaction with carbonmonoxy heme, proving the aspecificity of the interaction of apohemoglobin with polyanions.", "contents": "Effect of polyanions on the kinetics of the reaction of apohemoglobin with carbonmonoxy heme. The reaction of apohemoglobin with carbonmonoxy heme and with carbonmonoxy heme dimethyl ester was investigated in the presence and absence of inositol hexaphosphate. The binding stoichiometry of both heme derivatives to apohemoglobin was not affected by the presence of the polyphosphate, while, in both cases, the overall rate of recombination was substantially decreased. The absence of the negatively charged carboxyl groups in the dimethyl ester derivative of the heme indicated that the effect of inositol hexaphosphate on the reaction of apohemoglobin with heme was not due to electrostatic repulsions and resulted from conformational changes occurring upon the interaction of apohemoglobin with inositol hexaphosphate. Qualitative treatment of the kinetic data suggests that these conformational changes destabilize the intermediates of the reaction by increasing their redissociation into the original components. Also, benzenehexacarboxylate produced conformational changes in apohemoglobin and decreased its rate of reaction with carbonmonoxy heme, proving the aspecificity of the interaction of apohemoglobin with polyanions.", "PMID": 438158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3881", "title": "Biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids. Presence of dithionite and an endogenous electron donor in Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens.", "content": "Two oxygen-consuming substances were isolated from cell-free extracts of the rumen anaerobe, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens. The major fraction comprising 97% of the total activity was characterized as a three-component mixture of glucose, maltose, and dithionite. The minor activity fraction contained an electron donor for the reduction of cis-9,trans-11-octadecadienoate to trans-11-octadecenoate. After oxidation, the electron donor could be reduced by the dithionite, thereby accounting for the previously observed capacity of cell-free extracts of the bacterium to carry out the biohydrogenation of the conjugated dienoic fatty acid.", "contents": "Biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids. Presence of dithionite and an endogenous electron donor in Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens. Two oxygen-consuming substances were isolated from cell-free extracts of the rumen anaerobe, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens. The major fraction comprising 97% of the total activity was characterized as a three-component mixture of glucose, maltose, and dithionite. The minor activity fraction contained an electron donor for the reduction of cis-9,trans-11-octadecadienoate to trans-11-octadecenoate. After oxidation, the electron donor could be reduced by the dithionite, thereby accounting for the previously observed capacity of cell-free extracts of the bacterium to carry out the biohydrogenation of the conjugated dienoic fatty acid.", "PMID": 438161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3882", "title": "Conversion by rat brain preparation of lignoceric acid to ceramides and cerebrosides containing both alpha-hydroxy and nonhydroxy fatty acids. Effects of compounds which affect sphingolipid metabolism.", "content": "Three synthetic compounds which affect sphingolipid metabolism in vitro were examined for their effects on the synthesis in a rat brain system of nonhydroxyceramide, hydroxyceramide, nonhydroxycerebroside, and hydroxycerebroside from [1-14C]ignoceric acid. These compounds are N-octanoyl-D-threo-p-nitrophenylaminopropanediol (Compound I), N-(2,3-epoxydecanoyl)-norephedrine (Compound II), and N-decyl-N'-glucosylthiourea (Compound III). In the presence of up to 0.5 mM Compound I, only the hydroxyceramide fromation increased, while the synthesis of the other three lipids decreased. Compound II strongly inhibited the formation of all four lipids at all concentrations tested (0.1 to 1 mM). Compound III increased the synthesis of both ceramides approximately 2-fold at 1 mM, but the conversion of lignoceric acid to both cerebrosides remained relatively unchanged. Several significant conclusions from these observations are discussed.", "contents": "Conversion by rat brain preparation of lignoceric acid to ceramides and cerebrosides containing both alpha-hydroxy and nonhydroxy fatty acids. Effects of compounds which affect sphingolipid metabolism. Three synthetic compounds which affect sphingolipid metabolism in vitro were examined for their effects on the synthesis in a rat brain system of nonhydroxyceramide, hydroxyceramide, nonhydroxycerebroside, and hydroxycerebroside from [1-14C]ignoceric acid. These compounds are N-octanoyl-D-threo-p-nitrophenylaminopropanediol (Compound I), N-(2,3-epoxydecanoyl)-norephedrine (Compound II), and N-decyl-N'-glucosylthiourea (Compound III). In the presence of up to 0.5 mM Compound I, only the hydroxyceramide fromation increased, while the synthesis of the other three lipids decreased. Compound II strongly inhibited the formation of all four lipids at all concentrations tested (0.1 to 1 mM). Compound III increased the synthesis of both ceramides approximately 2-fold at 1 mM, but the conversion of lignoceric acid to both cerebrosides remained relatively unchanged. Several significant conclusions from these observations are discussed.", "PMID": 438163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3883", "title": "Solubilization and characterization of a platelet membrane ADP-binding protein.", "content": "Previous studies have shown that platelet membranes bind radiolabeled ADP and have nucleoside diphosphokinase activity which transforms added ADP to ATP. In order to further characterize these reactions, the ADP-binding and nucleoside diphosphokinase activity of purified platelet membranes were solubilized by freeze-thaw injury followed by extraction with isotonic buffered saline. Up to 80% of membrane ADP-binding activity was solubilized along with 20% of the total membrane protein, a 4-fold purification. A Millipore filter binding assay was developed to detect the soluble binding protein using [3H]ADP as radioligand. Binding of [3H]ADP was rapid, reversible, saturable, and was destroyed by heat, trypsin digestion, and 1 mM N-ethylmaleimide. By Scatchard analysis, there was a single class of binding sites with a Kd of 3.8 x 10(-7) M. Unlabeled nucleotides competed with [3H]ADP with the following potency series: ATP = ADP greater than AMP greater than adenosine. The solubilized nucleoside diphosphokinase activity could be separated from ADP-binding activity by ultracentrifugation on 5 to 20% sucrose density gradients containing 0.6 M KCl suggesting that the activities reside on separate molecules. Hydrodynamic parameters were calculated for the binding protein by gel filtration and ultracentrifugation. The s20,w was 4.1, Stoke's radius 35 x 10(-8)cm, axial ratio (f/fo) 1.09, and the Mr = 61,000. The studies suggest that this platelet ADP-binding protein may act as the receptor for initiating ADP-induced aggregation and release.", "contents": "Solubilization and characterization of a platelet membrane ADP-binding protein. Previous studies have shown that platelet membranes bind radiolabeled ADP and have nucleoside diphosphokinase activity which transforms added ADP to ATP. In order to further characterize these reactions, the ADP-binding and nucleoside diphosphokinase activity of purified platelet membranes were solubilized by freeze-thaw injury followed by extraction with isotonic buffered saline. Up to 80% of membrane ADP-binding activity was solubilized along with 20% of the total membrane protein, a 4-fold purification. A Millipore filter binding assay was developed to detect the soluble binding protein using [3H]ADP as radioligand. Binding of [3H]ADP was rapid, reversible, saturable, and was destroyed by heat, trypsin digestion, and 1 mM N-ethylmaleimide. By Scatchard analysis, there was a single class of binding sites with a Kd of 3.8 x 10(-7) M. Unlabeled nucleotides competed with [3H]ADP with the following potency series: ATP = ADP greater than AMP greater than adenosine. The solubilized nucleoside diphosphokinase activity could be separated from ADP-binding activity by ultracentrifugation on 5 to 20% sucrose density gradients containing 0.6 M KCl suggesting that the activities reside on separate molecules. Hydrodynamic parameters were calculated for the binding protein by gel filtration and ultracentrifugation. The s20,w was 4.1, Stoke's radius 35 x 10(-8)cm, axial ratio (f/fo) 1.09, and the Mr = 61,000. The studies suggest that this platelet ADP-binding protein may act as the receptor for initiating ADP-induced aggregation and release.", "PMID": 438164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3884", "title": "Effect of trypsin on the cell surface proteins of hepatoma tissue culture cells. Characterization of a carbohydrate-rich glycopeptide released from a calcium binding membrane glycoprotein.", "content": "Concentrations of trypsin that bring about aggregation of hepatoma tissue culture (HTC) cells also release from the cell surface an Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide fragment. This glycopeptide fragment also accumulates in the medium, including serum-free medium, as a normal consequence of membrane protein turnover. The trypsin-released glycopeptide is labeled when cells are grown in the presence of fucose or leucine before treatment of the cells with the protease. Similarly, the glycopeptide fragment can be labeled by reacting cells in situ by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed radioiodination or by tritiated borohydride reduction of cells treated first with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase. The tryptic glycopeptide fragment was purified by concanavalin A-Sepharose chromatography, and hydroxyapatite chromatography in the presence of dodecyl sulfate. The amino acid and carbohydrate composition was determined, as was the sensitivity of the purified glycopeptide to a variety of endo- and exoglycosidases. The purified glycopeptide contains an average of 17 sialic acid residues and hence, shows charge heterogeneity after electrophoresis in isoelectric focusing gels. The charge heterogeneity can be eliminated completely by treatment with neuraminidase. The glycopeptide after this treatment is homogeneous. The trypsin-sensitive membrane glycoprotein which is the source of the Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide was identified by two-dimensional gel electrophoretic analysis of labeled cells, treated or not treated with trypsin. This glycoprotein, which has an apparent molecular weight of 85,000 and forms a homodimer in the presence of calcium ions, was purified and its identity as the parent of the Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide was confirmed by showing that the same Mr = 55,000 fragment was released by trypsin from the purified glycoprotein as was released from the intact cells.", "contents": "Effect of trypsin on the cell surface proteins of hepatoma tissue culture cells. Characterization of a carbohydrate-rich glycopeptide released from a calcium binding membrane glycoprotein. Concentrations of trypsin that bring about aggregation of hepatoma tissue culture (HTC) cells also release from the cell surface an Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide fragment. This glycopeptide fragment also accumulates in the medium, including serum-free medium, as a normal consequence of membrane protein turnover. The trypsin-released glycopeptide is labeled when cells are grown in the presence of fucose or leucine before treatment of the cells with the protease. Similarly, the glycopeptide fragment can be labeled by reacting cells in situ by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed radioiodination or by tritiated borohydride reduction of cells treated first with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase. The tryptic glycopeptide fragment was purified by concanavalin A-Sepharose chromatography, and hydroxyapatite chromatography in the presence of dodecyl sulfate. The amino acid and carbohydrate composition was determined, as was the sensitivity of the purified glycopeptide to a variety of endo- and exoglycosidases. The purified glycopeptide contains an average of 17 sialic acid residues and hence, shows charge heterogeneity after electrophoresis in isoelectric focusing gels. The charge heterogeneity can be eliminated completely by treatment with neuraminidase. The glycopeptide after this treatment is homogeneous. The trypsin-sensitive membrane glycoprotein which is the source of the Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide was identified by two-dimensional gel electrophoretic analysis of labeled cells, treated or not treated with trypsin. This glycoprotein, which has an apparent molecular weight of 85,000 and forms a homodimer in the presence of calcium ions, was purified and its identity as the parent of the Mr = 55,000 glycopeptide was confirmed by showing that the same Mr = 55,000 fragment was released by trypsin from the purified glycoprotein as was released from the intact cells.", "PMID": 438168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3885", "title": "Binding of androgen receptor to prostatic chromatin requires intact linker DNA.", "content": "Receptor-chromatin complexes were recovered from prostatic chromatin digested with micrococcal nuclease. The fragments of chromatin were separated on linear 7.6 to 76% (v/v) glycerol density gradients. With extensive digestion of DNA, receptor labeled with [1,2-3H]dihydrotestosterone was released from the chromatin. After 5% digestion of DNA to acid-soluble products, only a trace amount of labeled receptor was detected in the unbound form. In the latter instance, most of the labeled receptor was recovered from the gradients in association with five A260 peaks representing oligomeric and monomeric nucleosomes with a repeat length of 182 +/- 14 (mean +/- S.D.) base pairs. The concentration of receptors was highest in the A260 peaks, which contained large oligomers of nucleosomes, and lowest in fractions containing primarily monomer structures. Hence, the extent to which receptors remained bound to chromatin was dependent on the relative amount of intact, linker DNA present.", "contents": "Binding of androgen receptor to prostatic chromatin requires intact linker DNA. Receptor-chromatin complexes were recovered from prostatic chromatin digested with micrococcal nuclease. The fragments of chromatin were separated on linear 7.6 to 76% (v/v) glycerol density gradients. With extensive digestion of DNA, receptor labeled with [1,2-3H]dihydrotestosterone was released from the chromatin. After 5% digestion of DNA to acid-soluble products, only a trace amount of labeled receptor was detected in the unbound form. In the latter instance, most of the labeled receptor was recovered from the gradients in association with five A260 peaks representing oligomeric and monomeric nucleosomes with a repeat length of 182 +/- 14 (mean +/- S.D.) base pairs. The concentration of receptors was highest in the A260 peaks, which contained large oligomers of nucleosomes, and lowest in fractions containing primarily monomer structures. Hence, the extent to which receptors remained bound to chromatin was dependent on the relative amount of intact, linker DNA present.", "PMID": 438169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3886", "title": "Metabolism of pyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidines in Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania donovani. Allopurinol, oxipurinol, and 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine.", "content": "Leishmania donovani and Leishmania braziliensis grown in culture formed millimolar concentrations of allopurinol ribonucleoside 5'-monophosphate from [6-14C]allopurinol. In addition, allopurinol 1-ribonucleoside, oxipurinol riboside 5'-monophosphate, and three new metabolites of allopurinol, namely, 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleoside 5'-monophosphate and the corresponding di- and triphosphates (1-ribosyl 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine 5'-diphosphate and 1-ribosyl 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine 5'-triphosphate) were identified in the parasitic cells. They were formed via a unique amination reaction from 1-ribosyl allopurinol 5'-phosphate, analogous to the conversion of IMP to AMP. [6-14C]Allopurinol was incorporated into RNA of L. donovani in the form of 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine. Adenine reversed the growth inhibition of allopurinol and prevented its metabolism to all of the ribonucleotide metabolites. L. donovani was 2- to 4-fold more active in its metabolism of allopurinol to ribonucleotides than L. braziliensis. 4-Aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine inhibited cell growth and resulted in high intracellular levels of 1-ribosyl allopurinol 5'-phosphate and smaller amounts of the 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleotides. The metabolism of allopurinol to 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleotides and its resultant cytotoxicity occurs in these parasitic protozoans, but not in mammalian cells.", "contents": "Metabolism of pyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidines in Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania donovani. Allopurinol, oxipurinol, and 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine. Leishmania donovani and Leishmania braziliensis grown in culture formed millimolar concentrations of allopurinol ribonucleoside 5'-monophosphate from [6-14C]allopurinol. In addition, allopurinol 1-ribonucleoside, oxipurinol riboside 5'-monophosphate, and three new metabolites of allopurinol, namely, 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleoside 5'-monophosphate and the corresponding di- and triphosphates (1-ribosyl 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine 5'-diphosphate and 1-ribosyl 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine 5'-triphosphate) were identified in the parasitic cells. They were formed via a unique amination reaction from 1-ribosyl allopurinol 5'-phosphate, analogous to the conversion of IMP to AMP. [6-14C]Allopurinol was incorporated into RNA of L. donovani in the form of 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine. Adenine reversed the growth inhibition of allopurinol and prevented its metabolism to all of the ribonucleotide metabolites. L. donovani was 2- to 4-fold more active in its metabolism of allopurinol to ribonucleotides than L. braziliensis. 4-Aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine inhibited cell growth and resulted in high intracellular levels of 1-ribosyl allopurinol 5'-phosphate and smaller amounts of the 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleotides. The metabolism of allopurinol to 4-aminopyrazolo(3,4-d)pyrimidine ribonucleotides and its resultant cytotoxicity occurs in these parasitic protozoans, but not in mammalian cells.", "PMID": 438170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3887", "title": "Lipid requirements for the structure and function of the fatty acid synthetase complex from Ceratitis capitata.", "content": "Lipid content of purified fatty acid synthetase preparations from the Dipterous Ceratitis capitata correlated with the enzyme activity. Delipidation of the enzyme by extracting with a series of organic solvents rendered a protein without any residual activity and the treatment with phospholipase A2 for 30 min reduced the activity to 10%. Addition of lipid classes to either the native enzyme or the phospholipase-treated preparation enhanced the activity in a different manner, phosphatidylethanolamine being the most effective lipid. The role of the lipids in the lipoprotein structure of the complex was studied by circular dichroism spectra of the native enzyme and in the presence of a concentration range of urea, guanidinium chloride, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium cholate, and sodium chloride. 3 M urea and 1.5 M guanidinium chloride induced a conformational transition of the lipoprotein that lost its alpha-helical structure at higher concentrations of both reagents. Sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium cholate had little effect on the alpha-helical structure, although both reagents induced the loss of enzyme activity. Cholate had essentially the same effect as phospholipids on the maintenance of the native structure but it was unable to support the enzyme activity.", "contents": "Lipid requirements for the structure and function of the fatty acid synthetase complex from Ceratitis capitata. Lipid content of purified fatty acid synthetase preparations from the Dipterous Ceratitis capitata correlated with the enzyme activity. Delipidation of the enzyme by extracting with a series of organic solvents rendered a protein without any residual activity and the treatment with phospholipase A2 for 30 min reduced the activity to 10%. Addition of lipid classes to either the native enzyme or the phospholipase-treated preparation enhanced the activity in a different manner, phosphatidylethanolamine being the most effective lipid. The role of the lipids in the lipoprotein structure of the complex was studied by circular dichroism spectra of the native enzyme and in the presence of a concentration range of urea, guanidinium chloride, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium cholate, and sodium chloride. 3 M urea and 1.5 M guanidinium chloride induced a conformational transition of the lipoprotein that lost its alpha-helical structure at higher concentrations of both reagents. Sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium cholate had little effect on the alpha-helical structure, although both reagents induced the loss of enzyme activity. Cholate had essentially the same effect as phospholipids on the maintenance of the native structure but it was unable to support the enzyme activity.", "PMID": 438173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3888", "title": "Dependence of the quantum efficiency for photolysis of carboxyhemoglobin on the degree of ligation.", "content": "A combined stopped flow-laser photolysis apparatus was used to measure the quantum efficiency for removal of carbon monoxide bound to human hemoglobin as a function of fractional CO saturation. This flow-flash technique allows the properties of partially liganded hemoglobin molecules, which are sparsely populated under equilibrium conditions, to be conveniently studied. Experiments performed at pH 7 and 20 degrees C both in the presence and absence of phosphates gave a similar dependence of quantum efficiency on fractional saturation. The observed quantum efficiency was 0.90 +/- 0.06 at 10% saturation and decreased to 0.47 +/- 0.02 as full saturation was approached. An allosteric model in which Hb(CO)1 has a quantum efficiency of 0.99 while other liganded species have quantum efficiencies of 0.47 was used to produce a good simulation of the results.", "contents": "Dependence of the quantum efficiency for photolysis of carboxyhemoglobin on the degree of ligation. A combined stopped flow-laser photolysis apparatus was used to measure the quantum efficiency for removal of carbon monoxide bound to human hemoglobin as a function of fractional CO saturation. This flow-flash technique allows the properties of partially liganded hemoglobin molecules, which are sparsely populated under equilibrium conditions, to be conveniently studied. Experiments performed at pH 7 and 20 degrees C both in the presence and absence of phosphates gave a similar dependence of quantum efficiency on fractional saturation. The observed quantum efficiency was 0.90 +/- 0.06 at 10% saturation and decreased to 0.47 +/- 0.02 as full saturation was approached. An allosteric model in which Hb(CO)1 has a quantum efficiency of 0.99 while other liganded species have quantum efficiencies of 0.47 was used to produce a good simulation of the results.", "PMID": 438175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3889", "title": "Binding of human thrombin to cultured human endothelial cells.", "content": "Binding of thrombin to monolayer cultures of human umbilical vein endothelium is studied. Binding is measured as inhibition by unlabeled ligand of the binding of 125I-thrombin to the cells. Radioactivity bound to cultures at equilibrium is measured after draining but not washing the cells. To correct for unremoved supernatant, 131I-albumin is included as a second label in the medium. Equilibrium between bound and free thrombin is attained within 1 min, and Scatchard analysis indicates a population of approximately 3 x 10(3) sites/cell with a dissociation constant of 10(-10) M, and a larger population with a dissociation constant greater than 10(-8) M. The two populations of sites are also indicated by a biphasic dissociation of bound label. Thrombin inactivated with diisopropyl fluorophosphate binds to the same receptor, with an affinity similar to that of active thrombin. Binding is unaffected by albumin (an acidic protein) and cytochrome c (a basic protein). Cultures of umbilical cord smooth muscle and fibroblasts bind thrombin at least 100 times more weakly than endothelium, and no binding to erythrocytes or a monolayer culture of mouse neuroblastoma is detected.", "contents": "Binding of human thrombin to cultured human endothelial cells. Binding of thrombin to monolayer cultures of human umbilical vein endothelium is studied. Binding is measured as inhibition by unlabeled ligand of the binding of 125I-thrombin to the cells. Radioactivity bound to cultures at equilibrium is measured after draining but not washing the cells. To correct for unremoved supernatant, 131I-albumin is included as a second label in the medium. Equilibrium between bound and free thrombin is attained within 1 min, and Scatchard analysis indicates a population of approximately 3 x 10(3) sites/cell with a dissociation constant of 10(-10) M, and a larger population with a dissociation constant greater than 10(-8) M. The two populations of sites are also indicated by a biphasic dissociation of bound label. Thrombin inactivated with diisopropyl fluorophosphate binds to the same receptor, with an affinity similar to that of active thrombin. Binding is unaffected by albumin (an acidic protein) and cytochrome c (a basic protein). Cultures of umbilical cord smooth muscle and fibroblasts bind thrombin at least 100 times more weakly than endothelium, and no binding to erythrocytes or a monolayer culture of mouse neuroblastoma is detected.", "PMID": 438177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3890", "title": "Interferon priming. Effects on interferon messenger RNA.", "content": "The effects of priming mouse cells with interferon on the production of interferon and its mRNA were investigated. Interferon-treated (primed) mouse L929 cells produce 3 to 10 times more interferon than do nonprimed cells following induction with Newcastle disease virus. Interferon appears 2 to 4 h sooner in the primed cultures than in nonprimed cultures and interferon production by primed cells becomes resistant to inhibition by actinomycin D about 4 h sooner than interferon production in nonprimed cells. Interferon mRNA is detected in primed-induced cells about 2 h earlier than in nonprimed-induced cells. It reaches peak levels about 2 to 4 earlier in primed cells, but it also disappears sooner in primed cells. The total amounts of interferon mRNA isolated from primed-induced cells and nonprimed-induced cells were indistinguishable, by the methods utilized. Therefore, although primed cells can produce significantly more interferon and make interferon mRNA sooner than nonprimed cells, the total amount of interferon mRNA produced is apparently not increased, nor is its half-life prolonged in primed cells. Thus, enhanced interferon production in primed cells may result from enhanced efficiency of translation of interferon mRNA in the primed cells.", "contents": "Interferon priming. Effects on interferon messenger RNA. The effects of priming mouse cells with interferon on the production of interferon and its mRNA were investigated. Interferon-treated (primed) mouse L929 cells produce 3 to 10 times more interferon than do nonprimed cells following induction with Newcastle disease virus. Interferon appears 2 to 4 h sooner in the primed cultures than in nonprimed cultures and interferon production by primed cells becomes resistant to inhibition by actinomycin D about 4 h sooner than interferon production in nonprimed cells. Interferon mRNA is detected in primed-induced cells about 2 h earlier than in nonprimed-induced cells. It reaches peak levels about 2 to 4 earlier in primed cells, but it also disappears sooner in primed cells. The total amounts of interferon mRNA isolated from primed-induced cells and nonprimed-induced cells were indistinguishable, by the methods utilized. Therefore, although primed cells can produce significantly more interferon and make interferon mRNA sooner than nonprimed cells, the total amount of interferon mRNA produced is apparently not increased, nor is its half-life prolonged in primed cells. Thus, enhanced interferon production in primed cells may result from enhanced efficiency of translation of interferon mRNA in the primed cells.", "PMID": 438179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3891", "title": "Regulated synthesis of RNA polymerase II polypeptides in Chinese hamster ovary cell lines.", "content": "RNA polymerase II polypeptides present in [35S]methionine-labeled Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell extracts have been quantitatively immunoprecipitated with an anti-calf thymus RNA polymerase II serum. Analyses of the immunoprecipitates on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels indicated that the immunoprecipitated polymerase II of both wild type CHO cells and the alpha-amanitin-resistant mutant Ama1 had polypeptides of molecular weight 214,000, 140,000, 34,000, 25,000, 23,000, 20,500, and 16,500. In heterozygous alpha-amanitin-resistant/alpha-amanitin-sensitive hybrid CHO cells, growth in the presence of alpha-amanitin results in the inactivation of the alpha-amanitin-sensitive RNA polymerase II activity and a compensating increase in the activity of the alpha-amanitin-resistant enzyme. Determination of the rates of synthesis and degradation of RNA polymerase II polypeptides using [35S]methionine labeling and polymerase II immunoprecipitation demonstrated that this increase in activity of alpha-amanitin-resistant polymerase II resulted from a co-ordinate increase in the rate of synthesis of at least three polypeptides of RNA polymerase II. At the same time, there was an enhanced rate of degradation of the alpha-amanitin-inactivated RNA polymerase II polypeptides.", "contents": "Regulated synthesis of RNA polymerase II polypeptides in Chinese hamster ovary cell lines. RNA polymerase II polypeptides present in [35S]methionine-labeled Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell extracts have been quantitatively immunoprecipitated with an anti-calf thymus RNA polymerase II serum. Analyses of the immunoprecipitates on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels indicated that the immunoprecipitated polymerase II of both wild type CHO cells and the alpha-amanitin-resistant mutant Ama1 had polypeptides of molecular weight 214,000, 140,000, 34,000, 25,000, 23,000, 20,500, and 16,500. In heterozygous alpha-amanitin-resistant/alpha-amanitin-sensitive hybrid CHO cells, growth in the presence of alpha-amanitin results in the inactivation of the alpha-amanitin-sensitive RNA polymerase II activity and a compensating increase in the activity of the alpha-amanitin-resistant enzyme. Determination of the rates of synthesis and degradation of RNA polymerase II polypeptides using [35S]methionine labeling and polymerase II immunoprecipitation demonstrated that this increase in activity of alpha-amanitin-resistant polymerase II resulted from a co-ordinate increase in the rate of synthesis of at least three polypeptides of RNA polymerase II. At the same time, there was an enhanced rate of degradation of the alpha-amanitin-inactivated RNA polymerase II polypeptides.", "PMID": 438182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3892", "title": "Characterization of a type IV procollagen synthesized by human amniotic fluid cells in culture.", "content": "Fetal epithelioid cells, isolated from human amniotic fluid, synthesize and secrete a type IV-like procollagen characterized by a unique pattern of cyanogen bromide (CNBr)-produced peptides. The procollagen is disulfide-bonded and, after reduction, migrates on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as a doublet between collagen beta components and pro-alpha 1(I) chains. No conversion of the procollagen to collagen or to procollagen intermediates is observed in cell culture. The procollagen was purified by salt fractionation and ion exchange chromatography; its amino acid composition resembles that of collagenous proteins extracted from basement membranes, with a high 3- and 4-hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine content and low levels of alanine and arginine. The major products obtained after limited proteolytic digestion of the protein retain interchain disulfide bonds and, after reduction, migrate on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis near intact pro-alpha 1(I) chains. The procollagen is secreted efficiently by amniotic fluid cells despite almost complete inhibition of peptidyl hydroxylation but, unlike type I procollagen, the secreted underhydroxylated chains lack interchain disulfide bonds. Since these cells also secrete fibronectin and elaborate an extensive extracellular matrix, the system should prove useful in the study of cell-matrix interactions.", "contents": "Characterization of a type IV procollagen synthesized by human amniotic fluid cells in culture. Fetal epithelioid cells, isolated from human amniotic fluid, synthesize and secrete a type IV-like procollagen characterized by a unique pattern of cyanogen bromide (CNBr)-produced peptides. The procollagen is disulfide-bonded and, after reduction, migrates on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as a doublet between collagen beta components and pro-alpha 1(I) chains. No conversion of the procollagen to collagen or to procollagen intermediates is observed in cell culture. The procollagen was purified by salt fractionation and ion exchange chromatography; its amino acid composition resembles that of collagenous proteins extracted from basement membranes, with a high 3- and 4-hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine content and low levels of alanine and arginine. The major products obtained after limited proteolytic digestion of the protein retain interchain disulfide bonds and, after reduction, migrate on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis near intact pro-alpha 1(I) chains. The procollagen is secreted efficiently by amniotic fluid cells despite almost complete inhibition of peptidyl hydroxylation but, unlike type I procollagen, the secreted underhydroxylated chains lack interchain disulfide bonds. Since these cells also secrete fibronectin and elaborate an extensive extracellular matrix, the system should prove useful in the study of cell-matrix interactions.", "PMID": 438183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3893", "title": "Isolation and characterization of proteoglycans from porcine lungs.", "content": "Proteoglycans were extracted from porcine lungs with 4 M guanidinium chloride. The extract was subjected to associative density gradient centrifugation, and four equal fractions, labeled A1 through A4 from the bottom to the top of the gradient, were obtained. The pooled A1 fractions containing proteoglycan aggregates were further fractionated by dissociative density gradient centrifugation to yield four equal fractions labeled A1D1 through A1D4 from the bottom to the top of the gradient. These fractions were analyzed for their protein, uronic acid, glucosamine, galactosamine, hexose, and sialic acid content. The fraction A1D1 with the highest buoyant density had the highest content of uronic acid and galactosamine, and lowest content of protein, indicating the enrichment of proteoglycan monomers at the bottom of the dissociative density gradient. As the density of the gradient decreased, the protein, hexoses, and sialic acid content increased, whereas uronic acid and galactosamine content decreased. The amino acid analysis showed similar composition for all four fractions with aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, proline, glycine, alanine, valine, and leucine as the major constituent amino acids. No hydroxyproline was detected in any of the fractions. As the buoyant density of the fractions decreased, the aspartic acid content increased and glycine content decreased.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of proteoglycans from porcine lungs. Proteoglycans were extracted from porcine lungs with 4 M guanidinium chloride. The extract was subjected to associative density gradient centrifugation, and four equal fractions, labeled A1 through A4 from the bottom to the top of the gradient, were obtained. The pooled A1 fractions containing proteoglycan aggregates were further fractionated by dissociative density gradient centrifugation to yield four equal fractions labeled A1D1 through A1D4 from the bottom to the top of the gradient. These fractions were analyzed for their protein, uronic acid, glucosamine, galactosamine, hexose, and sialic acid content. The fraction A1D1 with the highest buoyant density had the highest content of uronic acid and galactosamine, and lowest content of protein, indicating the enrichment of proteoglycan monomers at the bottom of the dissociative density gradient. As the density of the gradient decreased, the protein, hexoses, and sialic acid content increased, whereas uronic acid and galactosamine content decreased. The amino acid analysis showed similar composition for all four fractions with aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, proline, glycine, alanine, valine, and leucine as the major constituent amino acids. No hydroxyproline was detected in any of the fractions. As the buoyant density of the fractions decreased, the aspartic acid content increased and glycine content decreased.", "PMID": 438187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3894", "title": "Refolding of the mixed disulfide of bovine trypsinogen and glutathione.", "content": "The mixed disulfide of bovine trypsinogen and glutathione refolded with high yields at protein concentrations of 20 microgram/ml or less, at 4-25 degrees C, pH 8.0 to 8.7, in the presence of 3 to 6 mM cysteine under anaerobic conditions. The regenerated protein behaved as native trypsinogen as judged by gel exclusion chromatography, isoelectric focusing, and activation with bovine enterokinase or trypsin. However, refolded samples that were quenched with iodoacetate and analyzed by disc gel electrophoresis formed two components corresponding to trypsinogen and S-(carboxymethylcysteine)2-(179-203)-trypsinogen. The use of cysteine as a disulfide interchange catalyst caused reduction of the 179 to 203 disulfide bond, and quenching of the refolding mixture with iodoacetate produced the carboxymethylated derivative. The overall yield of the regenerated product was 70% and the half-time at 4 degrees C was 55 min.", "contents": "Refolding of the mixed disulfide of bovine trypsinogen and glutathione. The mixed disulfide of bovine trypsinogen and glutathione refolded with high yields at protein concentrations of 20 microgram/ml or less, at 4-25 degrees C, pH 8.0 to 8.7, in the presence of 3 to 6 mM cysteine under anaerobic conditions. The regenerated protein behaved as native trypsinogen as judged by gel exclusion chromatography, isoelectric focusing, and activation with bovine enterokinase or trypsin. However, refolded samples that were quenched with iodoacetate and analyzed by disc gel electrophoresis formed two components corresponding to trypsinogen and S-(carboxymethylcysteine)2-(179-203)-trypsinogen. The use of cysteine as a disulfide interchange catalyst caused reduction of the 179 to 203 disulfide bond, and quenching of the refolding mixture with iodoacetate produced the carboxymethylated derivative. The overall yield of the regenerated product was 70% and the half-time at 4 degrees C was 55 min.", "PMID": 438188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3895", "title": "The presence of an adrenodoxin-like ferredoxin and cytochrome P-450 in brain mitochondria.", "content": "An iron-sulfur protein has been isolated from bovine brain mitochondria and purified 200-fold. The optical spectrum (peaks at 412 and 455 nm which disappear upon reduction) and the EPR spectrum (g values at 1.94 and 2.02) were typical for a ferredoxin. In reconstitution experiments, the protein could replace adrenodoxin in the cholesterol side chain cleavage reaction. The additional detection of cytochrome P-450 in brain mitochondria indicates that the isolated ferredoxin is part of a cytochrome P-450-dependent hydroxylation system.", "contents": "The presence of an adrenodoxin-like ferredoxin and cytochrome P-450 in brain mitochondria. An iron-sulfur protein has been isolated from bovine brain mitochondria and purified 200-fold. The optical spectrum (peaks at 412 and 455 nm which disappear upon reduction) and the EPR spectrum (g values at 1.94 and 2.02) were typical for a ferredoxin. In reconstitution experiments, the protein could replace adrenodoxin in the cholesterol side chain cleavage reaction. The additional detection of cytochrome P-450 in brain mitochondria indicates that the isolated ferredoxin is part of a cytochrome P-450-dependent hydroxylation system.", "PMID": 438190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3896", "title": "Proton nuclear magnetic resonance studies on bovine lutropin, its subunits, and on the alpha subunit of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin. Assignment of histidine resonances in the alpha subunit.", "content": "The pK values of the 3 histidine residues in the common alpha subunits of bovine and equine glycoprotein hormones have been determined from titration curves generated from their C-2 proton nuclear magnetic resonances at different pH values. Assignment of resonances to specific histidines is based on a comparison between the two species, which have 1 histidine residue in different positions in their sequences, and of the bovine alpha subunit after removal of its histidine 94 by treatment with carboxypeptidases. In both species, those histidines closest to the COOH terminus titrate with near normal pK values of 6.2. The histidine residue found in the bovine subunit at position 87 titrates with an approximate pK value of 5.4. Histidine 83, adjacent to an oligosaccharide moiety in both species, does not titrate over a pH range of 4.0 to 8.0 and thus appears inaccessible to solvent. Similarly, in bovine lutropin-beta, 1 of 3 histidine residues does not titrate between pH 5.0 and 7.0. In the intact hormone, 2 \"nontitratable\" histidine residues are found. Changes in the characteristics of the signals, however, preclude unambiguous assignment of these two resonances to the nontitrating histidines in the isolated subunits. It appears that changes in the environment of at least some histidines occur when the subunits combine to yield intact hormone.", "contents": "Proton nuclear magnetic resonance studies on bovine lutropin, its subunits, and on the alpha subunit of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin. Assignment of histidine resonances in the alpha subunit. The pK values of the 3 histidine residues in the common alpha subunits of bovine and equine glycoprotein hormones have been determined from titration curves generated from their C-2 proton nuclear magnetic resonances at different pH values. Assignment of resonances to specific histidines is based on a comparison between the two species, which have 1 histidine residue in different positions in their sequences, and of the bovine alpha subunit after removal of its histidine 94 by treatment with carboxypeptidases. In both species, those histidines closest to the COOH terminus titrate with near normal pK values of 6.2. The histidine residue found in the bovine subunit at position 87 titrates with an approximate pK value of 5.4. Histidine 83, adjacent to an oligosaccharide moiety in both species, does not titrate over a pH range of 4.0 to 8.0 and thus appears inaccessible to solvent. Similarly, in bovine lutropin-beta, 1 of 3 histidine residues does not titrate between pH 5.0 and 7.0. In the intact hormone, 2 \"nontitratable\" histidine residues are found. Changes in the characteristics of the signals, however, preclude unambiguous assignment of these two resonances to the nontitrating histidines in the isolated subunits. It appears that changes in the environment of at least some histidines occur when the subunits combine to yield intact hormone.", "PMID": 438191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3897", "title": "Chiral [18O]phosphorothioates. The stereochemical course of thiophosphoryl group transfer catalyzed by nucleoside phosphotransferase.", "content": "Nucleoside phosphotransferase from barley seedlings was used to catalyze the equilibration of adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate having the S configuration at phosphorus with [adenine-8-14C]adenosine to produce [adenine-8-14C]adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate and adenosine. The configuration of the chiral phosphorus in adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate which was used as the donor substrate was then compared with that of the [adenine-8-14C]adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate isolated from the reaction mixture. They were found to be the same, showing that the reaction proceeds with 99.7% retention of configuration of the [18O]phosphorothioate. This is interpreted to be indicative of the involvement of a thiophosphoryl-enzyme intermediate in the nucleoside phosphotransferase reaction. The synthesis of adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate having the R and S configurations at the phosphorus atoms is described.", "contents": "Chiral [18O]phosphorothioates. The stereochemical course of thiophosphoryl group transfer catalyzed by nucleoside phosphotransferase. Nucleoside phosphotransferase from barley seedlings was used to catalyze the equilibration of adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate having the S configuration at phosphorus with [adenine-8-14C]adenosine to produce [adenine-8-14C]adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate and adenosine. The configuration of the chiral phosphorus in adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate which was used as the donor substrate was then compared with that of the [adenine-8-14C]adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate isolated from the reaction mixture. They were found to be the same, showing that the reaction proceeds with 99.7% retention of configuration of the [18O]phosphorothioate. This is interpreted to be indicative of the involvement of a thiophosphoryl-enzyme intermediate in the nucleoside phosphotransferase reaction. The synthesis of adenosine-5'-[18O]phosphorothioate having the R and S configurations at the phosphorus atoms is described.", "PMID": 438192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3898", "title": "Induction of cholera toxin receptors in cultured cells by butyric acid.", "content": "Exposure of HeLa cells to sodium butyrate caused an increase in choleragen (cholera toxin) receptors as measured by increased binding of 125I-choleragen to the intact cells. The process was dependent on time and butyrate concentration; maximal increases (over 40-fold) were observed at 48 h and 5 mM sodium butyrate. Other short chain fatty acids were less effective in elevating choleragen receptors in the order: butyrate greater than pentanoate greater than hexanoate greater than propionate. Acetate and isobutyrate had no effect. The increase in toxin receptors caused by butyrate was reversible and occurred in serum-free medium. The affinity of choleragen for control and butyrate-treated HeLa cells appeared to be similar. Butyrate also induced an elevation in choleragen receptors in rat C6 glial and Friend erythroleukemic cells but not in a butyrate-resistant HeLa mutant. The increase observed in Friend cells paralleled the increase in ganglioside GM1 (galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl-[N-acetylneuraminyl]-galactosylglucosylceramide), the reported choleragen receptor. Although no GM1 could be detected in untreated Hela cells, small amounts were found in cells exposed to butyrate.", "contents": "Induction of cholera toxin receptors in cultured cells by butyric acid. Exposure of HeLa cells to sodium butyrate caused an increase in choleragen (cholera toxin) receptors as measured by increased binding of 125I-choleragen to the intact cells. The process was dependent on time and butyrate concentration; maximal increases (over 40-fold) were observed at 48 h and 5 mM sodium butyrate. Other short chain fatty acids were less effective in elevating choleragen receptors in the order: butyrate greater than pentanoate greater than hexanoate greater than propionate. Acetate and isobutyrate had no effect. The increase in toxin receptors caused by butyrate was reversible and occurred in serum-free medium. The affinity of choleragen for control and butyrate-treated HeLa cells appeared to be similar. Butyrate also induced an elevation in choleragen receptors in rat C6 glial and Friend erythroleukemic cells but not in a butyrate-resistant HeLa mutant. The increase observed in Friend cells paralleled the increase in ganglioside GM1 (galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl-[N-acetylneuraminyl]-galactosylglucosylceramide), the reported choleragen receptor. Although no GM1 could be detected in untreated Hela cells, small amounts were found in cells exposed to butyrate.", "PMID": 438193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3899", "title": "The degradation of proparathormone and parathormone by parathyroid and liver cathepsin B.", "content": "Purified cathepsin B from porcine parathyroid glands was allowed to act upon radioactive bovine parathormone and proparathormone at various ratios of enzyme to substrate and for different times. The reaction products were isolated by ion exchange chromatography and analyzed by gel electrophoresis, amino acid composition, sequence analysis, and bioassay. The enzyme cleaved parathormone between residues 36 and 37 yielding a major carboxyl and amino fragment and appeared to cleave proparathormone at the same locus. The amino fragments were degraded further by removal of small peptides (possibly, di- or tripeptides) from their COOH termini. In contrast there was little if any degradation of the carboxyl fragment (residues 37 to 84). Despite the ease with which the enzyme cleaved the arginyl bond in the synthetic substrate benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Lys-Lys-Arg-(4-methoxy)-2-naphthylamide, it did not remove the near homologous NH2-terminal hexapeptide extension of proparathormone (Lys-Ser-Val-Lys-Lys-Arg-R)--a reaction that would lead to the formation of parathormone from proparathormone. Purified liver cathepsin B cleaved the hormonal substrates in a fashion identical with that of the parathyroid enzyme.", "contents": "The degradation of proparathormone and parathormone by parathyroid and liver cathepsin B. Purified cathepsin B from porcine parathyroid glands was allowed to act upon radioactive bovine parathormone and proparathormone at various ratios of enzyme to substrate and for different times. The reaction products were isolated by ion exchange chromatography and analyzed by gel electrophoresis, amino acid composition, sequence analysis, and bioassay. The enzyme cleaved parathormone between residues 36 and 37 yielding a major carboxyl and amino fragment and appeared to cleave proparathormone at the same locus. The amino fragments were degraded further by removal of small peptides (possibly, di- or tripeptides) from their COOH termini. In contrast there was little if any degradation of the carboxyl fragment (residues 37 to 84). Despite the ease with which the enzyme cleaved the arginyl bond in the synthetic substrate benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Lys-Lys-Arg-(4-methoxy)-2-naphthylamide, it did not remove the near homologous NH2-terminal hexapeptide extension of proparathormone (Lys-Ser-Val-Lys-Lys-Arg-R)--a reaction that would lead to the formation of parathormone from proparathormone. Purified liver cathepsin B cleaved the hormonal substrates in a fashion identical with that of the parathyroid enzyme.", "PMID": 438195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3900", "title": "Purification to homogeneity of a beta-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase and partial purification of an alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands.", "content": "Two different sialyltransferases (EC 2.4.99.1) have been resolved from Triton X-100 extracts of porcine submaxillary glands by affinity chromatography on CDP-hexanolamine agarose. The predominant sialyltransferase of this tissue, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: alpha-D-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase, has been obtained in a partially purified and stable form. A less abundant but highly active enzyme, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: beta-D-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase, was purified over 90,000-fold to homogeneity. Chromatography of the latter enzyme on Sephadex G-200 separated two noninterconverting forms, designated A and B, with Stokes radii of 51 A and 31 A, respectively. Both forms have equal specific activity toward lactose and contain a single polypeptide with a molecular weight of about 50,000 as estimated by gel electrophoresis. Form A appears to bind 1.18 g of Triton X-100 per g of protein, or nearly an entire detergent micelle per polypeptide, while Form B binds little or no detergent. The enzymatic properties of both forms are similar (Rearick, J.I., Sadler, J.E., Paulson, J.C., and Hill, R.L. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 4444-4451) supporting the conclusion that Form A may represent the native sialyltransferase with an intact membrane-binding site, and Form B may be a large proteolytic fragment of Form A.", "contents": "Purification to homogeneity of a beta-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase and partial purification of an alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands. Two different sialyltransferases (EC 2.4.99.1) have been resolved from Triton X-100 extracts of porcine submaxillary glands by affinity chromatography on CDP-hexanolamine agarose. The predominant sialyltransferase of this tissue, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: alpha-D-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase, has been obtained in a partially purified and stable form. A less abundant but highly active enzyme, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: beta-D-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase, was purified over 90,000-fold to homogeneity. Chromatography of the latter enzyme on Sephadex G-200 separated two noninterconverting forms, designated A and B, with Stokes radii of 51 A and 31 A, respectively. Both forms have equal specific activity toward lactose and contain a single polypeptide with a molecular weight of about 50,000 as estimated by gel electrophoresis. Form A appears to bind 1.18 g of Triton X-100 per g of protein, or nearly an entire detergent micelle per polypeptide, while Form B binds little or no detergent. The enzymatic properties of both forms are similar (Rearick, J.I., Sadler, J.E., Paulson, J.C., and Hill, R.L. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 4444-4451) supporting the conclusion that Form A may represent the native sialyltransferase with an intact membrane-binding site, and Form B may be a large proteolytic fragment of Form A.", "PMID": 438196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3901", "title": "The calculation of some physical parameters of proteins from sucrose density gradient centrifugation data.", "content": "A simplified procedure is described for the calculation of protein physical parameters from data obtained by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The position of an uncharacterized protein relative to standard proteins is determined after centrifugation through linear 5-20% sucrose gradients prepared in both H2O and D2O. From these data, together with the density of each 5% sucrose buffer, the partial specific volume and standard sedimentation coefficient can be calculated without knowledge of rotor dimensions, angular velocity, time of centrifugation, or solvent viscosity. In the absence of specific solvent-induced changes in protein composition or conformation, the magnitude of error due to the approximations inherent in the method is estimated to be less than 2.3% in partial specific volume or less than 10-15% in sedimentation coefficient.", "contents": "The calculation of some physical parameters of proteins from sucrose density gradient centrifugation data. A simplified procedure is described for the calculation of protein physical parameters from data obtained by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The position of an uncharacterized protein relative to standard proteins is determined after centrifugation through linear 5-20% sucrose gradients prepared in both H2O and D2O. From these data, together with the density of each 5% sucrose buffer, the partial specific volume and standard sedimentation coefficient can be calculated without knowledge of rotor dimensions, angular velocity, time of centrifugation, or solvent viscosity. In the absence of specific solvent-induced changes in protein composition or conformation, the magnitude of error due to the approximations inherent in the method is estimated to be less than 2.3% in partial specific volume or less than 10-15% in sedimentation coefficient.", "PMID": 438197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3902", "title": "Enzymatic characterization of beta D-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary gland.", "content": "The substrate requirements, linkage specificity, and kinetic mechanism of a pure sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands have been examined. The enzyme transfers sialic acid from the donor nucleotide, CMP-NeuAc, into the sequence NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 3GalNAc, which is found in both glycoproteins and gangliosides. It forms only the alpha2 leads to 3 linkage with the disaccharide Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAc or antifreeze glycoprotein, which, along with asialoglycoproteins containing the sequence Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAcalpha1 leads to O-Thr/Ser, are the best acceptor substrates. Low molecular weight galactosides linked beta1 leads to 3 to glycose residues other than N-acetylgalactosamine are poor acceptors with relatively high Km values, while those in beta1 leads to 4 or beta1 leads to 6 linkages have both high Km and low Vmax. With glycoprotein and ganglioside acceptors this substrate specificity appears to be even more strict, with the sequence Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAc serving as the exclusive acceptor. Thus the present enzyme is not responsible either for the sequence, NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAc, found in the asparagine-linked chains of certain glycoproteins, or for the synthesis of hematoside, NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 4Glcbeta1 leads to 1Cer. Initial rate kinetic studies, with and without inhibitors, suggest that the transferase has an equilibrium random order mechanism.", "contents": "Enzymatic characterization of beta D-galactoside alpha2 leads to 3 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary gland. The substrate requirements, linkage specificity, and kinetic mechanism of a pure sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands have been examined. The enzyme transfers sialic acid from the donor nucleotide, CMP-NeuAc, into the sequence NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 3GalNAc, which is found in both glycoproteins and gangliosides. It forms only the alpha2 leads to 3 linkage with the disaccharide Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAc or antifreeze glycoprotein, which, along with asialoglycoproteins containing the sequence Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAcalpha1 leads to O-Thr/Ser, are the best acceptor substrates. Low molecular weight galactosides linked beta1 leads to 3 to glycose residues other than N-acetylgalactosamine are poor acceptors with relatively high Km values, while those in beta1 leads to 4 or beta1 leads to 6 linkages have both high Km and low Vmax. With glycoprotein and ganglioside acceptors this substrate specificity appears to be even more strict, with the sequence Gal/beta1 leads to 3GalNAc serving as the exclusive acceptor. Thus the present enzyme is not responsible either for the sequence, NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAc, found in the asparagine-linked chains of certain glycoproteins, or for the synthesis of hematoside, NeuAcalpha2 leads to 3Galbeta1 leads to 4Glcbeta1 leads to 1Cer. Initial rate kinetic studies, with and without inhibitors, suggest that the transferase has an equilibrium random order mechanism.", "PMID": 438198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3903", "title": "Defective regulation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase in a somatic cell mutant.", "content": "A somatic cell mutant of the CHO-K1 cell selected to be resistant to the killing effects of 25-hydroxycholesterol in the absence of cholesterol is shown to be defective in the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase activity by 25-hydroxycholesterol, cholesterol, and lipoproteins, thus maintaining the enzyme activity found in cells in the absence of exogenous sterol constitutively. The mutants phenotype is shown to be dominant with respect to the wild type. Actinomycin D and cycloheximide prevent the increase of HMG-CoA reductase activity that occurs in the CHO-K1 cell when cholesterol is removed from medium. Degradation of the enzyme, measured during inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide, occurs at the same rate in the mutant as in the wild type. Kinetic studies indicate that the Km for two substrates, the activation energy, and a break in the Arrhenius plot are the same for HMG-CoA reductase determined in wild type and mutant cells. From these studies it is concluded that the mutant is defective in the regulation of synthesis of HMG-CoA reductase. Of the four processes which determine cellular cholesterol levels: biosynthesis, esterification, efflux, and uptake, only biosynthesis is altered, demonstrating that these processes are not co-ordinately controlled as has been suggested previously.", "contents": "Defective regulation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase in a somatic cell mutant. A somatic cell mutant of the CHO-K1 cell selected to be resistant to the killing effects of 25-hydroxycholesterol in the absence of cholesterol is shown to be defective in the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase activity by 25-hydroxycholesterol, cholesterol, and lipoproteins, thus maintaining the enzyme activity found in cells in the absence of exogenous sterol constitutively. The mutants phenotype is shown to be dominant with respect to the wild type. Actinomycin D and cycloheximide prevent the increase of HMG-CoA reductase activity that occurs in the CHO-K1 cell when cholesterol is removed from medium. Degradation of the enzyme, measured during inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide, occurs at the same rate in the mutant as in the wild type. Kinetic studies indicate that the Km for two substrates, the activation energy, and a break in the Arrhenius plot are the same for HMG-CoA reductase determined in wild type and mutant cells. From these studies it is concluded that the mutant is defective in the regulation of synthesis of HMG-CoA reductase. Of the four processes which determine cellular cholesterol levels: biosynthesis, esterification, efflux, and uptake, only biosynthesis is altered, demonstrating that these processes are not co-ordinately controlled as has been suggested previously.", "PMID": 438201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3904", "title": "Purification and properties of heme oxygenase from rat liver microsomes.", "content": "Heme oxygenase was purified to apparent homogeneity from liver microsomes of rats which had been treated with either cobaltous chloride or hemin to induce heme oxygenase in the liver and the purified preparations from either rats showed an apparent molecular weight of about 200,000 when estimated by gel filtration on a column of Sephadex G-200, and gave a minimum molecular weight of about 32,000 on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The hepatic heme oxygenase could bind heme to form a heme . heme oxygenase complex showing an absorption peak at 405 nm, and the extinction coefficient at 405 nm of the heme . heme oxygenase complex was 140 mM-1 cm-1. The heme bound to the hepatic heme oxygenase protein was easily converted to biliverdin when the complex was incubated with the NADPH-cytochrome c reductase system in air. The hepatic heme oxygenase appears to have characteristics essentially similar to those of the splenic heme oxygenase (Yoshida, T., and Kikuchi, G. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 4224 and 4230). The heme oxygenase preparation which was purified from the cobalt-treated rats contained a small amount of cobaltic protoporphyrin, indicating that cobalt protoporphyrin was synthesized in these rats.", "contents": "Purification and properties of heme oxygenase from rat liver microsomes. Heme oxygenase was purified to apparent homogeneity from liver microsomes of rats which had been treated with either cobaltous chloride or hemin to induce heme oxygenase in the liver and the purified preparations from either rats showed an apparent molecular weight of about 200,000 when estimated by gel filtration on a column of Sephadex G-200, and gave a minimum molecular weight of about 32,000 on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The hepatic heme oxygenase could bind heme to form a heme . heme oxygenase complex showing an absorption peak at 405 nm, and the extinction coefficient at 405 nm of the heme . heme oxygenase complex was 140 mM-1 cm-1. The heme bound to the hepatic heme oxygenase protein was easily converted to biliverdin when the complex was incubated with the NADPH-cytochrome c reductase system in air. The hepatic heme oxygenase appears to have characteristics essentially similar to those of the splenic heme oxygenase (Yoshida, T., and Kikuchi, G. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 4224 and 4230). The heme oxygenase preparation which was purified from the cobalt-treated rats contained a small amount of cobaltic protoporphyrin, indicating that cobalt protoporphyrin was synthesized in these rats.", "PMID": 438202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3905", "title": "The initial stages of processing of protein-bound oligosaccharides in vitro.", "content": "Following the rapid enzymatic transfer of an oligosaccharide (GlcNAc2Man9Glc3) from a lipid carrier to endogenous protein acceptors in membrane preparations from NIL fibroblasts, the transferred oligosaccharide chain undergoes processing. Protein-bound oligosaccharides, released from the polypeptide backbone by treatment with endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H, were analyzed by gel filtration and by susceptibility to alpha-mannosidase digestion. The initial stages of this processing in vitro consist of sequential excision of 3 glucose residues prior to the removal of mannose residues. The array of oligosaccharides generated in vitro by membrane preparations from NIL cells appears to be identical with processed oligosaccharides derived in vivo in intact NIL cells.", "contents": "The initial stages of processing of protein-bound oligosaccharides in vitro. Following the rapid enzymatic transfer of an oligosaccharide (GlcNAc2Man9Glc3) from a lipid carrier to endogenous protein acceptors in membrane preparations from NIL fibroblasts, the transferred oligosaccharide chain undergoes processing. Protein-bound oligosaccharides, released from the polypeptide backbone by treatment with endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H, were analyzed by gel filtration and by susceptibility to alpha-mannosidase digestion. The initial stages of this processing in vitro consist of sequential excision of 3 glucose residues prior to the removal of mannose residues. The array of oligosaccharides generated in vitro by membrane preparations from NIL cells appears to be identical with processed oligosaccharides derived in vivo in intact NIL cells.", "PMID": 438206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3906", "title": "Mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation in liver homogenates and isolated hepatocytes from control and clofibrate-treated rats.", "content": "Mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation were compared in whole liver homogenates. Oxidation of 0.2 mM palmitoyl-CoA or oleate by mitochondria increased rapidly with increasing molar substrate:albumin ratios and became saturated at ratios below 3, while peroxisomal oxidation increased more slowly and continued to rise to reach maximal activity in the absence of albumin. Under the latter condition mitochondrial oxidation was severely depressed. In homogenates from normal liver peroxisomal oxidation was lower than mitochondrial oxidation at all ratios tested except when albumin was absent. In contrast with mitochondrial oxidation, peroxisomal oxidation did not produce ketones, was cyanide-insensitive, was not dependent on carnitine, and was not inhibited by (+)-octanoylcarnitine, malonyl-CoA and 4-pentenoate. Mitochondrial oxidation was inhibited by CoASH concentrations that were optimal for peroxisomal oxidation. In the presence of albumin, peroxisomal oxidation was stimulated by Triton X-100 but unaffected by freeze-thawing; both treatments suppressed mitochondrial oxidation. Clofibrate treatment increased mitochondrial and peroxisomal oxidation 2- and 6- to 8-fold, respectively. Peroxisomal oxidation remained unchanged in starvation and diabetes. Fatty acid oxidation was severely depressed by cyanide and (+)-octanoylcarnitine in hepatocytes from normal rats. Hepatocytes from clofibrate-treated rats, which displayed a 3- to 4-fold increase in fatty acid oxidation, were less inhibited by (+)-octanoylcarnitine. Hydrogen peroxide production was severalfold higher in hepatocytes from treated animals oxidizing fatty acids than in control hepatocytes. Assuming that all H2O2 produced during fatty acid oxidation was due to peroxisomal oxidation, it was calculated that the contribution of the peroxisomes to fatty acid oxidation was less than 10% both in cells from control and clofibrate-treated animals.", "contents": "Mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation in liver homogenates and isolated hepatocytes from control and clofibrate-treated rats. Mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation were compared in whole liver homogenates. Oxidation of 0.2 mM palmitoyl-CoA or oleate by mitochondria increased rapidly with increasing molar substrate:albumin ratios and became saturated at ratios below 3, while peroxisomal oxidation increased more slowly and continued to rise to reach maximal activity in the absence of albumin. Under the latter condition mitochondrial oxidation was severely depressed. In homogenates from normal liver peroxisomal oxidation was lower than mitochondrial oxidation at all ratios tested except when albumin was absent. In contrast with mitochondrial oxidation, peroxisomal oxidation did not produce ketones, was cyanide-insensitive, was not dependent on carnitine, and was not inhibited by (+)-octanoylcarnitine, malonyl-CoA and 4-pentenoate. Mitochondrial oxidation was inhibited by CoASH concentrations that were optimal for peroxisomal oxidation. In the presence of albumin, peroxisomal oxidation was stimulated by Triton X-100 but unaffected by freeze-thawing; both treatments suppressed mitochondrial oxidation. Clofibrate treatment increased mitochondrial and peroxisomal oxidation 2- and 6- to 8-fold, respectively. Peroxisomal oxidation remained unchanged in starvation and diabetes. Fatty acid oxidation was severely depressed by cyanide and (+)-octanoylcarnitine in hepatocytes from normal rats. Hepatocytes from clofibrate-treated rats, which displayed a 3- to 4-fold increase in fatty acid oxidation, were less inhibited by (+)-octanoylcarnitine. Hydrogen peroxide production was severalfold higher in hepatocytes from treated animals oxidizing fatty acids than in control hepatocytes. Assuming that all H2O2 produced during fatty acid oxidation was due to peroxisomal oxidation, it was calculated that the contribution of the peroxisomes to fatty acid oxidation was less than 10% both in cells from control and clofibrate-treated animals.", "PMID": 438207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3907", "title": "Interactions of cartilage proteoglycans with hyaluronate. Inhibition of the interaction by modified oligomers of hyaluronate.", "content": "Oligomers of hyaluronic acid were prepared by digestion of hyaluronic acid from rooster combs with testicular hyaluronidase (hyaluronate 4-glycanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.35), leech head hyaluronidase (hyaluronate 3-glycanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.36), and with fungal hyaluronidase (hyaluronate lyase from Streptomyces hyalurolyticus). The oligomers were fractionated by gel permeation, using Sephadex G-50. Oligomers isolated after incubation of the hyaluronic acid with the testicular hyaluronidase were further modified. To prepare oligomers with N-acetylglucosamine at both ends, terminal nonreducing glucuronic acid residues were removed with beta-glucuronidase. Reducing terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues were removed by reaction under mildly alkaline conditions. The reducing terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues were also reduced with sodium borohydride to form N-acetylglucosaminitol. The potentials of the various oligosaccharides to bind to the proteoglycan from bovine nasal septum cartilage were estimated by determining their effectiveness as inhibitors of the proteoglycan-hyaluronate interaction. The present study shows that, to bind maximally to the proteoglycan, the hyaluronate oligosaccharide must be at least 10 sugar residues in length and be terminated at the nonreducing and reducing ends with a glucuronate residue and an N-acetylglucosamine residue, respectively. Sugar residues extended beyond this basic decasaccharide, do not interact with the hyaluronate binding site on the proteoglycan.", "contents": "Interactions of cartilage proteoglycans with hyaluronate. Inhibition of the interaction by modified oligomers of hyaluronate. Oligomers of hyaluronic acid were prepared by digestion of hyaluronic acid from rooster combs with testicular hyaluronidase (hyaluronate 4-glycanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.35), leech head hyaluronidase (hyaluronate 3-glycanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.36), and with fungal hyaluronidase (hyaluronate lyase from Streptomyces hyalurolyticus). The oligomers were fractionated by gel permeation, using Sephadex G-50. Oligomers isolated after incubation of the hyaluronic acid with the testicular hyaluronidase were further modified. To prepare oligomers with N-acetylglucosamine at both ends, terminal nonreducing glucuronic acid residues were removed with beta-glucuronidase. Reducing terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues were removed by reaction under mildly alkaline conditions. The reducing terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues were also reduced with sodium borohydride to form N-acetylglucosaminitol. The potentials of the various oligosaccharides to bind to the proteoglycan from bovine nasal septum cartilage were estimated by determining their effectiveness as inhibitors of the proteoglycan-hyaluronate interaction. The present study shows that, to bind maximally to the proteoglycan, the hyaluronate oligosaccharide must be at least 10 sugar residues in length and be terminated at the nonreducing and reducing ends with a glucuronate residue and an N-acetylglucosamine residue, respectively. Sugar residues extended beyond this basic decasaccharide, do not interact with the hyaluronate binding site on the proteoglycan.", "PMID": 438208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3908", "title": "Mechanism of imipramine inhibition of platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine transport.", "content": "Plasma membrane vesicles isolated from porcine blood platelets take up approximately 8 to 15 pmol of [3H]imipramine per mg of membrane protein. This apparent binding requires Na+ in the external medium and is reversed by 5-hydroxytryptamine and fluoxetine. The apparent KD for imipramine uptake is 23 nM, which agrees well with the KI for competitive inhibition of 5-hydroxytryptamine transport by imipramine. In contrast to 5-hydroxytryptamine transport, imipramine uptake is not dependent on transmembrane Na+ and K+ gradients and is insensitive to ionophores such as nigericin and gramicidin which dissipate these gradients. Although 5-hydroxytryptamine rapidly and competitively displaces imipramine from membrane vesicles, imipramine does not cause 5-hydroxytryptamine efflux and inhibits 5-hydroxytryptamine exchange. These results are consistent with the proposal that imipramine binds to the substrate site of the 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter but cannot be transported.", "contents": "Mechanism of imipramine inhibition of platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine transport. Plasma membrane vesicles isolated from porcine blood platelets take up approximately 8 to 15 pmol of [3H]imipramine per mg of membrane protein. This apparent binding requires Na+ in the external medium and is reversed by 5-hydroxytryptamine and fluoxetine. The apparent KD for imipramine uptake is 23 nM, which agrees well with the KI for competitive inhibition of 5-hydroxytryptamine transport by imipramine. In contrast to 5-hydroxytryptamine transport, imipramine uptake is not dependent on transmembrane Na+ and K+ gradients and is insensitive to ionophores such as nigericin and gramicidin which dissipate these gradients. Although 5-hydroxytryptamine rapidly and competitively displaces imipramine from membrane vesicles, imipramine does not cause 5-hydroxytryptamine efflux and inhibits 5-hydroxytryptamine exchange. These results are consistent with the proposal that imipramine binds to the substrate site of the 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter but cannot be transported.", "PMID": 438209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3909", "title": "Synthetic glycolipids and the lectin-mediated aggregation of liposomes.", "content": "Synthetic mannose-containing glycolipids utilizing the cholesterol nucleus as a lipid anchor, and either the 6-aminohexyl- or the 6-(6-aminohexanamido)hexyl-1-thio-alpha-D-mannopyranosides as the carbohydrate ligands, have been synthesized and incorporated into small unilamellar liposomes. Incorporation of these cholesterol-mannoside derivatives at concentrations up to 14 mol% apparently does not affect the physical characteristics of the liposomes. Addition of concanavalin A to a suspension of liposomes containing the long chain cholesterol-mannose derivative causes an increase in light-scattering at 360 nm. As the increase in absorbance is completely reversed by the addition of alpha-methylmannoside, aggregation rather than fusion of the liposomes appears to be occurring. Liposomes containing 14 mol % of the short chain (6-aminohexyl-) derivative are aggregated by concanavalin A indicating that the lectin can approach to within 10 A of the lipid bilayer. Preliminary results suggest that the aggregation of vesicles containing either the long or short chain derivatives is highly dependent on the density of the sugar in the membrane.", "contents": "Synthetic glycolipids and the lectin-mediated aggregation of liposomes. Synthetic mannose-containing glycolipids utilizing the cholesterol nucleus as a lipid anchor, and either the 6-aminohexyl- or the 6-(6-aminohexanamido)hexyl-1-thio-alpha-D-mannopyranosides as the carbohydrate ligands, have been synthesized and incorporated into small unilamellar liposomes. Incorporation of these cholesterol-mannoside derivatives at concentrations up to 14 mol% apparently does not affect the physical characteristics of the liposomes. Addition of concanavalin A to a suspension of liposomes containing the long chain cholesterol-mannose derivative causes an increase in light-scattering at 360 nm. As the increase in absorbance is completely reversed by the addition of alpha-methylmannoside, aggregation rather than fusion of the liposomes appears to be occurring. Liposomes containing 14 mol % of the short chain (6-aminohexyl-) derivative are aggregated by concanavalin A indicating that the lectin can approach to within 10 A of the lipid bilayer. Preliminary results suggest that the aggregation of vesicles containing either the long or short chain derivatives is highly dependent on the density of the sugar in the membrane.", "PMID": 438211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3910", "title": "Migration of 40 S ribosomal subunits on messenger RNA when initiation is perturbed by lowering magnesium or adding drugs.", "content": "Migration of 40 S ribosomal subunits on messenger RNA, detected previously in experiments using the antibiotic edeine (Kozak, M., and Shatkin, A.J. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 6568-6577) has now been observed in the presence of other inhibitors of initiation. 40 S subunit migration has been detected in both wheat germ and reticulocyte lysates treated with edeine, pactamycin, or sodium fluoride. The variety of structurally unrelated inhibitors that mediate this effect argues against the interpretation that migration is a drug-induced artifact. Indeed, limited migration of 40 S ribosomes occurs upon simply lowering the magnesium concentration, in the absence of inhibitors. Thus, migration seems to be an inherent property of 40 S ribosomal subunits and might be involved in the mechanism by which eukaryotic ribosomes select initiation sites in messenger RNA.", "contents": "Migration of 40 S ribosomal subunits on messenger RNA when initiation is perturbed by lowering magnesium or adding drugs. Migration of 40 S ribosomal subunits on messenger RNA, detected previously in experiments using the antibiotic edeine (Kozak, M., and Shatkin, A.J. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 6568-6577) has now been observed in the presence of other inhibitors of initiation. 40 S subunit migration has been detected in both wheat germ and reticulocyte lysates treated with edeine, pactamycin, or sodium fluoride. The variety of structurally unrelated inhibitors that mediate this effect argues against the interpretation that migration is a drug-induced artifact. Indeed, limited migration of 40 S ribosomes occurs upon simply lowering the magnesium concentration, in the absence of inhibitors. Thus, migration seems to be an inherent property of 40 S ribosomal subunits and might be involved in the mechanism by which eukaryotic ribosomes select initiation sites in messenger RNA.", "PMID": 438212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3911", "title": "Stereochemical specificity of the biosynthesis of the alkyl ether bond in alkyl ether lipids.", "content": "The stereochemical course of the formation of the alkyl ether bond in alkyl ether lipids was investigated through the synthesis of stereospecifically labeled acyl R- or S-[1-3H]dihydroxyacetone 3-phosphate (DHAP) starting from L-glyceraldehyde. It was demonstrated directly that the formation of the alkyl ether bond results in the stereospecific exchange of the pro-R C-1 hydrogen of DHAP with a proton of water. The configuration of the hydrogen that is retained on C-1 after formation of the alkyl ether bond was also investigated. The alkyl ether lipid was degraded, and the DHAP backbone isolated as glycerol, converted to DHAP via glycerol 3-phosphate and treated with either aldolase or triose phosphate isomerase. The results demonstrated that the retained hydrogen on C-1, which was pro-S in the starting substrate, was pro-S in the product alkyl ether.", "contents": "Stereochemical specificity of the biosynthesis of the alkyl ether bond in alkyl ether lipids. The stereochemical course of the formation of the alkyl ether bond in alkyl ether lipids was investigated through the synthesis of stereospecifically labeled acyl R- or S-[1-3H]dihydroxyacetone 3-phosphate (DHAP) starting from L-glyceraldehyde. It was demonstrated directly that the formation of the alkyl ether bond results in the stereospecific exchange of the pro-R C-1 hydrogen of DHAP with a proton of water. The configuration of the hydrogen that is retained on C-1 after formation of the alkyl ether bond was also investigated. The alkyl ether lipid was degraded, and the DHAP backbone isolated as glycerol, converted to DHAP via glycerol 3-phosphate and treated with either aldolase or triose phosphate isomerase. The results demonstrated that the retained hydrogen on C-1, which was pro-S in the starting substrate, was pro-S in the product alkyl ether.", "PMID": 438213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3912", "title": "Activation of thymocyte glucocorticoid receptors to the steroid binding form. The roles of reduction agents, ATP, and heat-stable factors.", "content": "The specific glucocorticoid binding capacity in cytosol preparations of rat thymocytes decays with a half-life of 4 h at 0 degrees C or 20 min at 25 degrees C. Phosphatase inhibitors (molybdate, fluoride, glucose 1-phosphate) added alone do not prevent this inactivation. Dithiothreitol (2 mM) has a large stabilizing effect on the binding capacity at 0 degrees C but only a small effect at 25 degrees C. Addition of 10 mM molybdate plus 2 mM dithiothreitol totally prevents inactivation for at least 8 h at 25 degrees C as well as at 0 degrees C. Fluoride (100 mM) also retards the inactivation if added with dithiothreitol. Addition of dithiothreitol at 25 degrees C to inactivated cytosol receptors results in partial activation of the binding capacity. Addition of dithiothreitol to receptors inactivated at 25 degrees C in the presence of molybdate allows total reactivation of the binding capacity to the maximum zero time value. If binding capacity is inactivated by preincubation of the cytosol at 25 degrees C, addition of ATP with dithiothreitol enhances the activation observed with only dithiothreitol. This ATP stimulated activation is optimal at 1 to 3 mM. ATP (10 mM) is required when molybdate is added to prevent simultaneous inactivation. ADP, GTP, CTP, and UTP have some activating capacity but the effects of all nucleotides are inhibited by the ATP analog, adenyl-5'-yl (beta, gamma-methylene)diphosphonate. ATP-dependent activation can also be prevented with 50 mM EDTA, and addition of magnesium partially overcomes the EDTA inhibition. Dithiothreitol activation of thymocyte glucocorticoid binding capacity can also be enhanced by addition of a heat-stable preparation from thymocytes, L cells, or liver. Sephadex G-25 chromatography, assay of ATP, and inhibition of the activation with adenyl-5'-yl (beta, gamma-methylene)diphosphonate suggest that these preparations contain varying amounts of endogenous reducing equivalents and ATP as well as a larger heat stable factor. Maximum activation is obtained by adding dithiothreitol, ATP, molybdate, and the larger heat-stable factor. These results suggest that stabilization and activation of glucocorticoid binding capacity in thymocytes requires phosphorylation as well as reduction of the receptor itself or of some other component required for the steroid binding reaction.", "contents": "Activation of thymocyte glucocorticoid receptors to the steroid binding form. The roles of reduction agents, ATP, and heat-stable factors. The specific glucocorticoid binding capacity in cytosol preparations of rat thymocytes decays with a half-life of 4 h at 0 degrees C or 20 min at 25 degrees C. Phosphatase inhibitors (molybdate, fluoride, glucose 1-phosphate) added alone do not prevent this inactivation. Dithiothreitol (2 mM) has a large stabilizing effect on the binding capacity at 0 degrees C but only a small effect at 25 degrees C. Addition of 10 mM molybdate plus 2 mM dithiothreitol totally prevents inactivation for at least 8 h at 25 degrees C as well as at 0 degrees C. Fluoride (100 mM) also retards the inactivation if added with dithiothreitol. Addition of dithiothreitol at 25 degrees C to inactivated cytosol receptors results in partial activation of the binding capacity. Addition of dithiothreitol to receptors inactivated at 25 degrees C in the presence of molybdate allows total reactivation of the binding capacity to the maximum zero time value. If binding capacity is inactivated by preincubation of the cytosol at 25 degrees C, addition of ATP with dithiothreitol enhances the activation observed with only dithiothreitol. This ATP stimulated activation is optimal at 1 to 3 mM. ATP (10 mM) is required when molybdate is added to prevent simultaneous inactivation. ADP, GTP, CTP, and UTP have some activating capacity but the effects of all nucleotides are inhibited by the ATP analog, adenyl-5'-yl (beta, gamma-methylene)diphosphonate. ATP-dependent activation can also be prevented with 50 mM EDTA, and addition of magnesium partially overcomes the EDTA inhibition. Dithiothreitol activation of thymocyte glucocorticoid binding capacity can also be enhanced by addition of a heat-stable preparation from thymocytes, L cells, or liver. Sephadex G-25 chromatography, assay of ATP, and inhibition of the activation with adenyl-5'-yl (beta, gamma-methylene)diphosphonate suggest that these preparations contain varying amounts of endogenous reducing equivalents and ATP as well as a larger heat stable factor. Maximum activation is obtained by adding dithiothreitol, ATP, molybdate, and the larger heat-stable factor. These results suggest that stabilization and activation of glucocorticoid binding capacity in thymocytes requires phosphorylation as well as reduction of the receptor itself or of some other component required for the steroid binding reaction.", "PMID": 438214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3913", "title": "The complete primary structure of a proline-rich phosphoprotein from human saliva.", "content": "The complete amino acid sequence of a calcium-binding \"proline-rich phosphoprotein,\" named Protein A, from human saliva was determined by automated and manual Edman degradation of peptides obtained by enzymatic and chemical cleavage of the intact protein. The NH2-terminal pyrrolidone carboxylic acid was identified by means of NMR. The protein consists of 106 amino acids, including 24 residues of proline. The NH2-terminal 32 residues contain 13 of the 15 negatively charged residues including 2 phosphoserines, but only 1 proline. In spite of a high concentration of proline in the COOH-terminal part of the molecule, the longest oligoproline sequence is tetraproline. The protein contains a number of repeated sequences and there are also several sequences of 3 or 4 residues identical with known sequences of collagen, but the characteristic occurrence of glycine in every third position in collagen is not found in salivary Protein A.", "contents": "The complete primary structure of a proline-rich phosphoprotein from human saliva. The complete amino acid sequence of a calcium-binding \"proline-rich phosphoprotein,\" named Protein A, from human saliva was determined by automated and manual Edman degradation of peptides obtained by enzymatic and chemical cleavage of the intact protein. The NH2-terminal pyrrolidone carboxylic acid was identified by means of NMR. The protein consists of 106 amino acids, including 24 residues of proline. The NH2-terminal 32 residues contain 13 of the 15 negatively charged residues including 2 phosphoserines, but only 1 proline. In spite of a high concentration of proline in the COOH-terminal part of the molecule, the longest oligoproline sequence is tetraproline. The protein contains a number of repeated sequences and there are also several sequences of 3 or 4 residues identical with known sequences of collagen, but the characteristic occurrence of glycine in every third position in collagen is not found in salivary Protein A.", "PMID": 438215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3914", "title": "Properties of a soluble polyprenyl phosphate: UDP-D-glucose glucosyltransferase.", "content": "A soluble enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of D-glucose from UDP-D-glucose to dolichyl phosphate has been prepared by sonic oscillation of Acanthamoeba castellani cysts. The product of catalysis is dolichyl beta-D-glucosyl phosphate. The enzyme requires a divalent cation, either magnesium or manganese, and the presence of a reducing agent for maximum activity. Solanesyl phosphate and ficaprenyl phosphate are alternative substrates, apparently at lower rates, but GDP-D-glucose, UDP-D-glucuronic acid, UDP-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, and UDP-D-xylose are not substrates. The temperature optimum is 30 degrees C, the pH optimum is pH 7.0, the Km for UDP-Glc is 9.1 microM and for dolichyl phosphate it is 4.5 microM. Uridine monophosphate and UDP are inhibitors of the reaction, UDP causing reversal and UMP being a competitive inhibitor of UDP-Glc with a Ki of 62 microM. The enzyme can be stored indefinitely below -20 degrees C, is stable for several days at 4 degrees C, but is half-inactivated within 2 h at 30 degrees C and completely inactivated within 10 min at 52 degrees C.", "contents": "Properties of a soluble polyprenyl phosphate: UDP-D-glucose glucosyltransferase. A soluble enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of D-glucose from UDP-D-glucose to dolichyl phosphate has been prepared by sonic oscillation of Acanthamoeba castellani cysts. The product of catalysis is dolichyl beta-D-glucosyl phosphate. The enzyme requires a divalent cation, either magnesium or manganese, and the presence of a reducing agent for maximum activity. Solanesyl phosphate and ficaprenyl phosphate are alternative substrates, apparently at lower rates, but GDP-D-glucose, UDP-D-glucuronic acid, UDP-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, and UDP-D-xylose are not substrates. The temperature optimum is 30 degrees C, the pH optimum is pH 7.0, the Km for UDP-Glc is 9.1 microM and for dolichyl phosphate it is 4.5 microM. Uridine monophosphate and UDP are inhibitors of the reaction, UDP causing reversal and UMP being a competitive inhibitor of UDP-Glc with a Ki of 62 microM. The enzyme can be stored indefinitely below -20 degrees C, is stable for several days at 4 degrees C, but is half-inactivated within 2 h at 30 degrees C and completely inactivated within 10 min at 52 degrees C.", "PMID": 438216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3915", "title": "Urinary glycopeptides of fucosidosis.", "content": "Fucosidosis is unique among congenital exoglycosidase deficiencies, because not only oligosaccharides but large amount of glycopeptides are excreted in the urine. The structures of 22 major glycopeptides isolated from urine of a fucosidosis patient were determined. One of the prominent features common to all these glycopeptides was that they all contain 1 fucosyl residue at either C-3 or C-6 position of the N-acetylglucosamine which is linked to asparagine. Possibly, accumulation of glycopeptides in fucosidosis urine is caused by the inability of human endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase to cleave the asparagine-linked sugar chains, which have a fucose at the innermost N-acetylglucosamine residue.", "contents": "Urinary glycopeptides of fucosidosis. Fucosidosis is unique among congenital exoglycosidase deficiencies, because not only oligosaccharides but large amount of glycopeptides are excreted in the urine. The structures of 22 major glycopeptides isolated from urine of a fucosidosis patient were determined. One of the prominent features common to all these glycopeptides was that they all contain 1 fucosyl residue at either C-3 or C-6 position of the N-acetylglucosamine which is linked to asparagine. Possibly, accumulation of glycopeptides in fucosidosis urine is caused by the inability of human endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase to cleave the asparagine-linked sugar chains, which have a fucose at the innermost N-acetylglucosamine residue.", "PMID": 438217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3916", "title": "Cleavage of a COOH-terminal hydrophobic region from D-alanine carboxypeptidase, a penicillin-sensitive bacterial membrane enzyme. Characterization of active, water-soluble fragments.", "content": "D-Alanine carboxypeptidase (CPase), a detergent-soluble penicillin-sensitive membrane enzyme of Bacillus stearothermophilus, Mr = 46,500, was digested with either trypsin or alpha-chymotrypsin to yield water-soluble fragments, designated T-CPase and Chy-CPase, respectively, each of Mr = approximately 45,000. These fragments were generated and purified in milligram quantities by digestion of CPase covalently immobilized on a penicillin affinity column. They retained full enzymatic activity, became significantly more resistant to thermal inactivation, and lost micellar detergent binding upon proteolysis. Each was derived from CPase by loss of a COOH-terminal hydrophobic peptide. CPase was reconstituted into bacterial lipid vesicles in an enzymatically active form. Penicillin-binding sites were equally distributed on both sides of the lipid bilayer, suggesting a random orientation of the CPase molecules. Neither T-CPase nor Chy-CPase reconstituted into lipid vesicles when treated in an identical manner. CPase was slowly cleaved from the surface of these vesicles by either trypsin or alpha-chymotrypsin, yielding T-CPase and Chy-CPase, respectively. These results demonstrate that CPase is comprised of a water-soluble catalytic domain and a COOH-terminal hydrophobic region which mediates the anchoring of this enzyme to the bacterial membrane.", "contents": "Cleavage of a COOH-terminal hydrophobic region from D-alanine carboxypeptidase, a penicillin-sensitive bacterial membrane enzyme. Characterization of active, water-soluble fragments. D-Alanine carboxypeptidase (CPase), a detergent-soluble penicillin-sensitive membrane enzyme of Bacillus stearothermophilus, Mr = 46,500, was digested with either trypsin or alpha-chymotrypsin to yield water-soluble fragments, designated T-CPase and Chy-CPase, respectively, each of Mr = approximately 45,000. These fragments were generated and purified in milligram quantities by digestion of CPase covalently immobilized on a penicillin affinity column. They retained full enzymatic activity, became significantly more resistant to thermal inactivation, and lost micellar detergent binding upon proteolysis. Each was derived from CPase by loss of a COOH-terminal hydrophobic peptide. CPase was reconstituted into bacterial lipid vesicles in an enzymatically active form. Penicillin-binding sites were equally distributed on both sides of the lipid bilayer, suggesting a random orientation of the CPase molecules. Neither T-CPase nor Chy-CPase reconstituted into lipid vesicles when treated in an identical manner. CPase was slowly cleaved from the surface of these vesicles by either trypsin or alpha-chymotrypsin, yielding T-CPase and Chy-CPase, respectively. These results demonstrate that CPase is comprised of a water-soluble catalytic domain and a COOH-terminal hydrophobic region which mediates the anchoring of this enzyme to the bacterial membrane.", "PMID": 438218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3917", "title": "Preliminary crystallographic data for Bowman-Birk inhibitor from soybean seeds.", "content": "A well characterized soybean protease inhibitor, the Bowman-Birk inhibitor, has been crystallized at room temperature in the presence of polyethylene glycol 4000 by vapor diffusion against an ammonium sulfate solution containing 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol. An x-ray diffraction study reveals that the inhibitor crystallizes in a hexagonal unit cell of symmetry P6122 (or P6522) and dimensions a = b = 91.36(2) A and c = 63.92(2) A. Each of the 12 asymmetric units contains 2 molecules of molecular weight 8000. The crystal, which diffracts barely to 3-A spacings, is fairly stable to x-irradiation and has a solvent content of approximately 52% by volume.", "contents": "Preliminary crystallographic data for Bowman-Birk inhibitor from soybean seeds. A well characterized soybean protease inhibitor, the Bowman-Birk inhibitor, has been crystallized at room temperature in the presence of polyethylene glycol 4000 by vapor diffusion against an ammonium sulfate solution containing 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol. An x-ray diffraction study reveals that the inhibitor crystallizes in a hexagonal unit cell of symmetry P6122 (or P6522) and dimensions a = b = 91.36(2) A and c = 63.92(2) A. Each of the 12 asymmetric units contains 2 molecules of molecular weight 8000. The crystal, which diffracts barely to 3-A spacings, is fairly stable to x-irradiation and has a solvent content of approximately 52% by volume.", "PMID": 438219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3918", "title": "Free minicircles of kinetoplast DNA in Crithidia fasciculata.", "content": "The major form of kinetoplast DNA in Crithidia fasciculata is a network which contains thousands of minicircles linked together in a two-dimensional array. This paper reports the existence of free minicircles in Crithidia which by several criteria are identical to those in networks. They are the same size (about 2500 base pairs), and they yield the same products upon digestion with restriction enzymes. About 0.4% of the minicircles in exponentially growing nonsynchronized cells are free and the remainder are in networks. After a 5-min pulse with [3H]thymidine, above 10% of all of the incorporated radioactivity in the cell is in free minicircles, and the minicircles have a higher specific radioactivity than the average of other DNAs in the cell. Three-branched structures, which resemble Cairns-type replication intermediates, are occasionally observed by electron microscopy. Kinetic studies of the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into free minicircles indicate that they turn over, and this turnover was confirmed by a pulse-chase experiment. These properties of free minicircles suggest that they may be intermediates in the replication of network minicircles.", "contents": "Free minicircles of kinetoplast DNA in Crithidia fasciculata. The major form of kinetoplast DNA in Crithidia fasciculata is a network which contains thousands of minicircles linked together in a two-dimensional array. This paper reports the existence of free minicircles in Crithidia which by several criteria are identical to those in networks. They are the same size (about 2500 base pairs), and they yield the same products upon digestion with restriction enzymes. About 0.4% of the minicircles in exponentially growing nonsynchronized cells are free and the remainder are in networks. After a 5-min pulse with [3H]thymidine, above 10% of all of the incorporated radioactivity in the cell is in free minicircles, and the minicircles have a higher specific radioactivity than the average of other DNAs in the cell. Three-branched structures, which resemble Cairns-type replication intermediates, are occasionally observed by electron microscopy. Kinetic studies of the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into free minicircles indicate that they turn over, and this turnover was confirmed by a pulse-chase experiment. These properties of free minicircles suggest that they may be intermediates in the replication of network minicircles.", "PMID": 438220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3919", "title": "Crystallographic studies of glutamate dehydrogenase. Preliminary crystal data.", "content": "Native and pyridoxal phosphate modified rat liver glutamate dehydrogenase crystals have been obtained and used for a preliminary x-ray crystallographic analysis. The space group is P6222 (P6422) having unit cell dimensions a = b = 101 A, c = 724 A and gamma = 120 A. The unit cell contains 36 subunits (six hexameric molecules) of molecular weight 56,000 and there is one half-molecule, i.e. three subunits, in the asymmetric unit. Packing considerations suggest that the glutamate dehydrogenase molecule has the point group symmetry 32 and that each subunit can be represented as a particle with approximate dimensions of 45 x 45 x 60 A.", "contents": "Crystallographic studies of glutamate dehydrogenase. Preliminary crystal data. Native and pyridoxal phosphate modified rat liver glutamate dehydrogenase crystals have been obtained and used for a preliminary x-ray crystallographic analysis. The space group is P6222 (P6422) having unit cell dimensions a = b = 101 A, c = 724 A and gamma = 120 A. The unit cell contains 36 subunits (six hexameric molecules) of molecular weight 56,000 and there is one half-molecule, i.e. three subunits, in the asymmetric unit. Packing considerations suggest that the glutamate dehydrogenase molecule has the point group symmetry 32 and that each subunit can be represented as a particle with approximate dimensions of 45 x 45 x 60 A.", "PMID": 438222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3920", "title": "Heparinized styrene-butadiene-styrene elastomers.", "content": "A heparinized high-strength elastomer has been developed which is potentially useful as a nonthrombogenic vascular prosthesis. A surface hydroxylated styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) block copolymer with at least 40% extent of reaction after glow-discharge cleaning was coated with a 20% acetylated polyvinyl alcohol/heparin mixture containing glutaraldehyde and magnesium chloride. After curing at 80 degrees C for 100 min, the polyvinyl alcohol, heparin, and hydroxylated SBS were covalently bound to each other by acetal bridges. The effects of the various substrate and coating parameters were optimized to achieve very strong adhesion between the coating layer and the surface hydroxylated SBS. Heparin was not leached from the surface of the new material using 3M saline at pH 7.4 despite a detection limit of 10(-5) micrograms heparin/cm2 min. Prolonged partial thromboplastin times of greater than 1200 sec were observed (control: PTT = 120 sec). Preliminary ex vivo testing using a simple arteriovenous shunt in the leg of a rabbit showed good thromboresistance. The heparinized SBS shunt chamber remained patent for more than two hours without desorption of heparin. It was concluded that surface hydroxylated SBS heparinized by acetal coupling owed its thromboresistance to the heparin covalently bound to the surface and not to a microenvironment of heparin in solution at the blood/material interface.", "contents": "Heparinized styrene-butadiene-styrene elastomers. A heparinized high-strength elastomer has been developed which is potentially useful as a nonthrombogenic vascular prosthesis. A surface hydroxylated styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) block copolymer with at least 40% extent of reaction after glow-discharge cleaning was coated with a 20% acetylated polyvinyl alcohol/heparin mixture containing glutaraldehyde and magnesium chloride. After curing at 80 degrees C for 100 min, the polyvinyl alcohol, heparin, and hydroxylated SBS were covalently bound to each other by acetal bridges. The effects of the various substrate and coating parameters were optimized to achieve very strong adhesion between the coating layer and the surface hydroxylated SBS. Heparin was not leached from the surface of the new material using 3M saline at pH 7.4 despite a detection limit of 10(-5) micrograms heparin/cm2 min. Prolonged partial thromboplastin times of greater than 1200 sec were observed (control: PTT = 120 sec). Preliminary ex vivo testing using a simple arteriovenous shunt in the leg of a rabbit showed good thromboresistance. The heparinized SBS shunt chamber remained patent for more than two hours without desorption of heparin. It was concluded that surface hydroxylated SBS heparinized by acetal coupling owed its thromboresistance to the heparin covalently bound to the surface and not to a microenvironment of heparin in solution at the blood/material interface.", "PMID": 438224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3921", "title": "Effect of an in vivo environment on the strength of bone cement.", "content": "Bar-shaped polymethylmethacrylate test specimens removed from rabbits after implantation for times up to 26 months showed a significant change in fracture stress as determined by three-point bending in the period between 12 and 26 months. There were no adverse findings in the tissue which developed around the bone-cement test bars.", "contents": "Effect of an in vivo environment on the strength of bone cement. Bar-shaped polymethylmethacrylate test specimens removed from rabbits after implantation for times up to 26 months showed a significant change in fracture stress as determined by three-point bending in the period between 12 and 26 months. There were no adverse findings in the tissue which developed around the bone-cement test bars.", "PMID": 438225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3922", "title": "Time-dependent phase changes in Cu-rich amalgams.", "content": "Cu-rich amalgams represent a significant change in amalgam alloy formulations which may result in enhanced performance. Significantly, these systems reduce or eliminate the gamma2 phase. This work studied the phase changes which occurred from one hour to six months in 13 commercial amalgams by x-ray diffraction. This included 9 two-particle or blend systems and 4 single-particle systems. Gamma2 was found in all systems, but was reduced or eliminated on storage at 37 degrees C at rates which varied from system to system. During gamma2 elimination, the Cu6Sn5 content correspondingly increased, indicating that solid-state reaction occurs for up to six months in some systems.", "contents": "Time-dependent phase changes in Cu-rich amalgams. Cu-rich amalgams represent a significant change in amalgam alloy formulations which may result in enhanced performance. Significantly, these systems reduce or eliminate the gamma2 phase. This work studied the phase changes which occurred from one hour to six months in 13 commercial amalgams by x-ray diffraction. This included 9 two-particle or blend systems and 4 single-particle systems. Gamma2 was found in all systems, but was reduced or eliminated on storage at 37 degrees C at rates which varied from system to system. During gamma2 elimination, the Cu6Sn5 content correspondingly increased, indicating that solid-state reaction occurs for up to six months in some systems.", "PMID": 438226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3923", "title": "13C NMR spectroscopic analysis of poly(electrolyte) cement liquids.", "content": "13C NMR spectroscopy has been applied to the analysis of carboxylic poly-acid cement liquids. Monomer incorporation, composition ratio, sequence statistics, and stereochemical configuration have been considered theoretically, and determined experimentally, from the spectra. Conventionally polymerized poly(acrylic acid) has an approximately random configuration, but other varieties may be synthesized. Two commercial glass-ionomer cement liquids both contain tartaric acid as a chelating additive but the composition of their poly-acids are different. Itaconic acid units, distributed randomly, constitute 21% of the repeating units in one of these polyelectrolytes.", "contents": "13C NMR spectroscopic analysis of poly(electrolyte) cement liquids. 13C NMR spectroscopy has been applied to the analysis of carboxylic poly-acid cement liquids. Monomer incorporation, composition ratio, sequence statistics, and stereochemical configuration have been considered theoretically, and determined experimentally, from the spectra. Conventionally polymerized poly(acrylic acid) has an approximately random configuration, but other varieties may be synthesized. Two commercial glass-ionomer cement liquids both contain tartaric acid as a chelating additive but the composition of their poly-acids are different. Itaconic acid units, distributed randomly, constitute 21% of the repeating units in one of these polyelectrolytes.", "PMID": 438227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3924", "title": "The influence of grain size on the fatigue behavior of annealed 316 LVM stainless steel.", "content": "Experimental tests demonstrate that there is a sharp drop in resistance to fatigue fracture when the grain size is increased from 75 to 150 micrometers. This is at least a partial explanation for fatigue fractures of the stems of total hip-joint prostheses reported in the literature. It is also shown that plastic strains associated with fatigue stressing increase with increasing grain size so that loosening of the bone cement embedment may also be part of the premature failure process.", "contents": "The influence of grain size on the fatigue behavior of annealed 316 LVM stainless steel. Experimental tests demonstrate that there is a sharp drop in resistance to fatigue fracture when the grain size is increased from 75 to 150 micrometers. This is at least a partial explanation for fatigue fractures of the stems of total hip-joint prostheses reported in the literature. It is also shown that plastic strains associated with fatigue stressing increase with increasing grain size so that loosening of the bone cement embedment may also be part of the premature failure process.", "PMID": 438228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3925", "title": "Bending properties of wire-reinforced bone cement for applications in spinal fixation.", "content": "PMMA beam specimens were tested in four-point bending to determine if the bending strength of acrylic bone cement, as used in posterior spinal fusion, could be improved by metal-wire reinforcement. The result showed that the load-carrying capacities of 1- and 0.5-mm diam stainless-steel-wire-reinforced PMMA specimens in bending were significantly higher than similar unreinforced normal PMMA samples. On an average, steel reinforcement comprising approximately 1% of the cross-sectional area of the PMMA specimens caused a 15% increase in bending strength. Even after the cement fractured, the reinforcing wires still sustained an appreciable amount of bending moment, thus preventing catastrophic failure of cement alone.", "contents": "Bending properties of wire-reinforced bone cement for applications in spinal fixation. PMMA beam specimens were tested in four-point bending to determine if the bending strength of acrylic bone cement, as used in posterior spinal fusion, could be improved by metal-wire reinforcement. The result showed that the load-carrying capacities of 1- and 0.5-mm diam stainless-steel-wire-reinforced PMMA specimens in bending were significantly higher than similar unreinforced normal PMMA samples. On an average, steel reinforcement comprising approximately 1% of the cross-sectional area of the PMMA specimens caused a 15% increase in bending strength. Even after the cement fractured, the reinforcing wires still sustained an appreciable amount of bending moment, thus preventing catastrophic failure of cement alone.", "PMID": 438229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3926", "title": "Role of catheter surface morphology on intravascular thrombosis of plastic catheters.", "content": "The role of catheter surface roughness in initiation and propagation of intravascular catheter thrombosis was studied in dogs, utilizing the scanning electron microscope. Catheters were inserted in major arteries and veins for 200 min and the animals then sacrificed. Catheter segments, both with and without associated thrombi, were scrutinized with the scanning electron microscope. No correlation was found between catheter surface roughness and thrombus formation, suggesting that the inherent chemical characteristics of the catheter is most important in the initiation of intravascular catheter thrombus formation.", "contents": "Role of catheter surface morphology on intravascular thrombosis of plastic catheters. The role of catheter surface roughness in initiation and propagation of intravascular catheter thrombosis was studied in dogs, utilizing the scanning electron microscope. Catheters were inserted in major arteries and veins for 200 min and the animals then sacrificed. Catheter segments, both with and without associated thrombi, were scrutinized with the scanning electron microscope. No correlation was found between catheter surface roughness and thrombus formation, suggesting that the inherent chemical characteristics of the catheter is most important in the initiation of intravascular catheter thrombus formation.", "PMID": 438230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3927", "title": "The influence of final mercury content on the characteristics of a high-copper amalgam.", "content": "In this study, specimens of a high-copper amalgam, prepared at different final Hg contents, were examined in several different experiments. The results showed that as the Hg content is increased, a point is reached beyond which creep and the amount of Sn in gamma1 exhibit a sudden increase. As the Hg content is increased further, gamma2 can be detected. These phenomena can be explained by the hypothesis that insufficient Cu is present at higher Hg contents to combine with Sn to form Cu6Sn5.", "contents": "The influence of final mercury content on the characteristics of a high-copper amalgam. In this study, specimens of a high-copper amalgam, prepared at different final Hg contents, were examined in several different experiments. The results showed that as the Hg content is increased, a point is reached beyond which creep and the amount of Sn in gamma1 exhibit a sudden increase. As the Hg content is increased further, gamma2 can be detected. These phenomena can be explained by the hypothesis that insufficient Cu is present at higher Hg contents to combine with Sn to form Cu6Sn5.", "PMID": 438231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3928", "title": "Sustained drug delivery systems. I. The permeability of poly(epsilon-caprolactone), poly(DL-lactic acid), and their copolymers.", "content": "The maximum steady state flux, diffusion coefficients, and solubilities of five contraceptive steroids in homopolymers and copolymers of epsilon-caprolactone and DL-lactic acid were determined. The permeabilities of polymers of epsilon-caprolactone were comparable to silicone rubber and, by inference, are suitable for the construction of drug delivery devices. Poly(DL-lactic acid) was 10(4) times less permeable, although its permeability was significantly enhanced by additives.", "contents": "Sustained drug delivery systems. I. The permeability of poly(epsilon-caprolactone), poly(DL-lactic acid), and their copolymers. The maximum steady state flux, diffusion coefficients, and solubilities of five contraceptive steroids in homopolymers and copolymers of epsilon-caprolactone and DL-lactic acid were determined. The permeabilities of polymers of epsilon-caprolactone were comparable to silicone rubber and, by inference, are suitable for the construction of drug delivery devices. Poly(DL-lactic acid) was 10(4) times less permeable, although its permeability was significantly enhanced by additives.", "PMID": 438232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3929", "title": "Management of severe spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents.", "content": "Forty-three patients with a fifth lumbar-first sacral spondylolisthesis of 50 per cent or greater were reviewed. Four had been treated non-operatively; eleven, by arthrodesis; eighteen, by decompression and arthrodesis; and ten, by reduction and arthrodesis. The angle of slipping (measurement of the kyphotic relationship of the fifth lumbar to the first sacral vertebra) was found to be as important a measurement as the percentage of slipping in measuring instability and progression of slipping. Hamstring tightness did not correlate with neural deficit. Arthrodesis alone, even in the presence of minor neural deficits, tight hamstrings, or both, gave relief of pain and resolution of neural deficits and tight hamstrings. Our experience with a limited number of patients suggests that management by postoperative extension casts may achieve a significant reduction in percentage of slipping and in angle of slipping. Progression of the spondylolisthesis may occur following a solid arthrodesis.", "contents": "Management of severe spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents. Forty-three patients with a fifth lumbar-first sacral spondylolisthesis of 50 per cent or greater were reviewed. Four had been treated non-operatively; eleven, by arthrodesis; eighteen, by decompression and arthrodesis; and ten, by reduction and arthrodesis. The angle of slipping (measurement of the kyphotic relationship of the fifth lumbar to the first sacral vertebra) was found to be as important a measurement as the percentage of slipping in measuring instability and progression of slipping. Hamstring tightness did not correlate with neural deficit. Arthrodesis alone, even in the presence of minor neural deficits, tight hamstrings, or both, gave relief of pain and resolution of neural deficits and tight hamstrings. Our experience with a limited number of patients suggests that management by postoperative extension casts may achieve a significant reduction in percentage of slipping and in angle of slipping. Progression of the spondylolisthesis may occur following a solid arthrodesis.", "PMID": 438234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3930", "title": "Surgical management of thoracic kyphosis in adolescents.", "content": "Twenty-seven patients of a group of twenty-nine who underwent posterior spine fusion using Harrington compression instrumentation for Scheuermann's disease or postural roundback deformity were reviewed with a mean follow-up of 27.6 months. The mean curve before operation was 72 degrees and at review, 46.1 degrees. The mean loss of correction in the fusion from initial examination to final follow-up was 5.7 degrees. This procedure can achieve satisfactory correction of deformity as well as pain relief. We think that Harrington compression instrumentation and spine fusion is indicated in selected cases of roundback deformity.", "contents": "Surgical management of thoracic kyphosis in adolescents. Twenty-seven patients of a group of twenty-nine who underwent posterior spine fusion using Harrington compression instrumentation for Scheuermann's disease or postural roundback deformity were reviewed with a mean follow-up of 27.6 months. The mean curve before operation was 72 degrees and at review, 46.1 degrees. The mean loss of correction in the fusion from initial examination to final follow-up was 5.7 degrees. This procedure can achieve satisfactory correction of deformity as well as pain relief. We think that Harrington compression instrumentation and spine fusion is indicated in selected cases of roundback deformity.", "PMID": 438235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3931", "title": "Ipsilateral concomitant fractures of the hip and femoral shaft.", "content": "Fifty-two cases of concomitant ipsilateral fractures of the hip and femoral shaft were reviewed from the literature and twenty-one of our own were added. Thirty-one per cent of the femoral-neck fractures reported in the literature and one of our own were missed on initial evaluation. Examples of non-union and aseptic necrosis were all from the previously reported cases and occurred in the patients in whom there was a delay in diagnosis and treatment of the fracture of the neck. Nine of our patients had associated ipsilateral knee injuries. In nine pulmonary complications developed, all while in skeletal traction. If the patient survived the initial injury, the prognosis was surprisingly good. We concluded that intracapsular hip fractures should be treated by internal fixation. Good long-term results were the rule in the diaphyseal fractures. Internal fixation of both fractures should be considered in patients with severe multisystem trauma, in the very elderly, and in those with ipsilateral knee injuries. Ender pins were useful and were employed in five of our patients.", "contents": "Ipsilateral concomitant fractures of the hip and femoral shaft. Fifty-two cases of concomitant ipsilateral fractures of the hip and femoral shaft were reviewed from the literature and twenty-one of our own were added. Thirty-one per cent of the femoral-neck fractures reported in the literature and one of our own were missed on initial evaluation. Examples of non-union and aseptic necrosis were all from the previously reported cases and occurred in the patients in whom there was a delay in diagnosis and treatment of the fracture of the neck. Nine of our patients had associated ipsilateral knee injuries. In nine pulmonary complications developed, all while in skeletal traction. If the patient survived the initial injury, the prognosis was surprisingly good. We concluded that intracapsular hip fractures should be treated by internal fixation. Good long-term results were the rule in the diaphyseal fractures. Internal fixation of both fractures should be considered in patients with severe multisystem trauma, in the very elderly, and in those with ipsilateral knee injuries. Ender pins were useful and were employed in five of our patients.", "PMID": 438236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3932", "title": "Intra-articular acetabular labrum: a possible etiological factor in certain cases of osteoarthritis of the hip.", "content": "In eight patients with so-called idiopathic degenerative arthritis of the hip the acetabular labrum, at surgery, was found to lie in the articulation between the femoral head and the acetabulum. In none of the patients was there a history or roentgenographic evidence of congenital dysplasia or congenital dislocation. None of the patients had had a closed reduction or manipulation of the hip during infancy, childhood, or adolescence. No patient had had a traumatic dislocation. The findings suggest that the intra-articular labrum was a developmental abnormality and we postulate that this abnormality was the cause of the degenerative arthritis.", "contents": "Intra-articular acetabular labrum: a possible etiological factor in certain cases of osteoarthritis of the hip. In eight patients with so-called idiopathic degenerative arthritis of the hip the acetabular labrum, at surgery, was found to lie in the articulation between the femoral head and the acetabulum. In none of the patients was there a history or roentgenographic evidence of congenital dysplasia or congenital dislocation. None of the patients had had a closed reduction or manipulation of the hip during infancy, childhood, or adolescence. No patient had had a traumatic dislocation. The findings suggest that the intra-articular labrum was a developmental abnormality and we postulate that this abnormality was the cause of the degenerative arthritis.", "PMID": 438237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3933", "title": "Lengthening of the elbow flexors in cerebral palsy.", "content": "A procedure has been devised for treatment of the inability to extend the elbow due to either a fixed contracture of the flexor muscles or increased involuntary flexor-muscle tone and spasticity. The operation consists of lengthening all of the primary elbow-flexor muscles. It has been used successfully in thirty-two elbows of twenty-six children with cerebral palsy who were followed for an average of four years (range, two through six years). The average gain in extension was 40 degrees, and there was no loss of the patient's ability to flex the elbow or supinate the forearm. No vascular or neural complications were encountered. Independence in feeding was achieved in four patients. Seven patient acquired the ability to engage in sports and six, who previously had been unable to walk independently due to inability to handle crutches, could do so following this procedure.", "contents": "Lengthening of the elbow flexors in cerebral palsy. A procedure has been devised for treatment of the inability to extend the elbow due to either a fixed contracture of the flexor muscles or increased involuntary flexor-muscle tone and spasticity. The operation consists of lengthening all of the primary elbow-flexor muscles. It has been used successfully in thirty-two elbows of twenty-six children with cerebral palsy who were followed for an average of four years (range, two through six years). The average gain in extension was 40 degrees, and there was no loss of the patient's ability to flex the elbow or supinate the forearm. No vascular or neural complications were encountered. Independence in feeding was achieved in four patients. Seven patient acquired the ability to engage in sports and six, who previously had been unable to walk independently due to inability to handle crutches, could do so following this procedure.", "PMID": 438238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3934", "title": "Gross and histological abnormalities of the talus in congenital club foot.", "content": "Gross and histological abnormalities were demonstrated in a club-foot talus from a boy with multiple congenital anomalies who died when he was nine days old. Both tali were studied, the one from the club foot and the one from the normal foot. The gross anomalies involved the smaller size of the club-foot talus and the increased medial deviation of a stunted, misshapen head and neck region. Serial histological sections of both tali allowed for a three-dimensional geometric appreciation of both bones and an assessment of the nature and extent of histological and cytological features. The ossification center of the club-foot talus was absolutely and relatively smaller than that of the normal talus. It was eccentrically positioned, being more lateral and anterior than that of the normal talus. The marked histological abnormalities seen in the head and neck region of the club-foot talus involved extensive breaching of the endochondral sequence by vessels. The posterior aspect of the endochondral sequence and ossification center was normal. The extra-osseous and intra-osseous blood supply of the two tali was normal with the exception of the increased and irregular breaching of the endochondral sequence in the club-foot talus. This study demonstrates histological abnormalities in the head and neck region of the club-foot talus, which was most abnormal grossly. The eccentric position of the secondary ossification center as well as its related vascular abnormalities do not support a theory of developmental arrest of the talus but appear sufficiently abnormal to support the theory of a primary defect in the cartilage anlage. Clinically, one must bear in mind that early open reduction of the talocalcaneal navicular joint in a foot such as this would have served to reposition the navicular onto a talus that still was structurally abnormal.", "contents": "Gross and histological abnormalities of the talus in congenital club foot. Gross and histological abnormalities were demonstrated in a club-foot talus from a boy with multiple congenital anomalies who died when he was nine days old. Both tali were studied, the one from the club foot and the one from the normal foot. The gross anomalies involved the smaller size of the club-foot talus and the increased medial deviation of a stunted, misshapen head and neck region. Serial histological sections of both tali allowed for a three-dimensional geometric appreciation of both bones and an assessment of the nature and extent of histological and cytological features. The ossification center of the club-foot talus was absolutely and relatively smaller than that of the normal talus. It was eccentrically positioned, being more lateral and anterior than that of the normal talus. The marked histological abnormalities seen in the head and neck region of the club-foot talus involved extensive breaching of the endochondral sequence by vessels. The posterior aspect of the endochondral sequence and ossification center was normal. The extra-osseous and intra-osseous blood supply of the two tali was normal with the exception of the increased and irregular breaching of the endochondral sequence in the club-foot talus. This study demonstrates histological abnormalities in the head and neck region of the club-foot talus, which was most abnormal grossly. The eccentric position of the secondary ossification center as well as its related vascular abnormalities do not support a theory of developmental arrest of the talus but appear sufficiently abnormal to support the theory of a primary defect in the cartilage anlage. Clinically, one must bear in mind that early open reduction of the talocalcaneal navicular joint in a foot such as this would have served to reposition the navicular onto a talus that still was structurally abnormal.", "PMID": 438239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3935", "title": "The effect of hypotensive anesthesia on cephalothin concentrations in bone and muscle of patients undergoing total hip replacement.", "content": "Serial blood, muscle, and bone concentrations of cephalothin following intravenous infusion were determined in forty-eight patients during total hip replacement. Thirty patients received hypotensive anesthesia and the remaining eighteen received anesthesia without induced hypotension. The concentrations of cephalothin were determined during the first (early) and second (late) hours of the operation. Late serum levels were lower in the patients who had induced hypotension. In all patients at least one bone specimen contained measurable amounts of cephalothin. When pentolinium (Ansolysen) was used to induce hypotension, the late serum and early bone cephalothin concentrations were lower, while use of trimethaphan (Arfonad) did not appear to result in lower cephalothin concentrations in serum, muscle, or bone compared with patients with normotensive anesthesia.", "contents": "The effect of hypotensive anesthesia on cephalothin concentrations in bone and muscle of patients undergoing total hip replacement. Serial blood, muscle, and bone concentrations of cephalothin following intravenous infusion were determined in forty-eight patients during total hip replacement. Thirty patients received hypotensive anesthesia and the remaining eighteen received anesthesia without induced hypotension. The concentrations of cephalothin were determined during the first (early) and second (late) hours of the operation. Late serum levels were lower in the patients who had induced hypotension. In all patients at least one bone specimen contained measurable amounts of cephalothin. When pentolinium (Ansolysen) was used to induce hypotension, the late serum and early bone cephalothin concentrations were lower, while use of trimethaphan (Arfonad) did not appear to result in lower cephalothin concentrations in serum, muscle, or bone compared with patients with normotensive anesthesia.", "PMID": 438240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3936", "title": "Functional adaptation of bone to increased stress. An experimental study.", "content": "In young pigs walking normally, we recorded the principal compressive strains (epsilon 2) as revealed by strain gauges attached to the shaft of the radius. We found no correlation between the mean principal compressive strain and either age or weight in normal animals over the three-month time span of the experiment. Directly after unilateral removal of the ulnar diaphysis, the principal compressive strain on the radial shaft increased by two to two and one-half times its normal value. The increased level of strain in the radius caused by ulnar ostectomy resulted in a rapid and substantial remodeling response in the radius, but three months after ulnar ostectomy, the area of bone enclosed by the periosteal perimeter of the overstrained radius approached the value for the radius and ulna together in the contralateral limb, as did the cross-sectional area of the bone tissue in the mid-shaft of that radius. Three months after unilateral ostectomy, the principal compressive strain was not significantly different in the left and right radii and approached normal values.", "contents": "Functional adaptation of bone to increased stress. An experimental study. In young pigs walking normally, we recorded the principal compressive strains (epsilon 2) as revealed by strain gauges attached to the shaft of the radius. We found no correlation between the mean principal compressive strain and either age or weight in normal animals over the three-month time span of the experiment. Directly after unilateral removal of the ulnar diaphysis, the principal compressive strain on the radial shaft increased by two to two and one-half times its normal value. The increased level of strain in the radius caused by ulnar ostectomy resulted in a rapid and substantial remodeling response in the radius, but three months after ulnar ostectomy, the area of bone enclosed by the periosteal perimeter of the overstrained radius approached the value for the radius and ulna together in the contralateral limb, as did the cross-sectional area of the bone tissue in the mid-shaft of that radius. Three months after unilateral ostectomy, the principal compressive strain was not significantly different in the left and right radii and approached normal values.", "PMID": 438241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3937", "title": "Movement patterns of interosseus-minus fingers.", "content": "The patterns of isolated metacarpophalangeal-joint flexion and isolated interphalangeal-joint extension movements in eighty fingers with intact extrinsic and lumbrical muscles but no interossei (so-called interosseus-minus fingers) were studied. The pattern of metacarpophalangeal flexion resembled that seen in fingers with paralysis of all intrinsic muscles. From this it was inferred that in the interosseus-minus finger the lumbrical muscles are inactive during this movement. The pattern of isolated interphalangeal extension in the interosseus-minus fingers showed an improvement over that in totally intrinsic-minus fingers, suggesting that the lumbrical muscles reduce the extending forces at the metacarpophalangeal joint to some extent. Active participation of the interosseus muscles appears to be necessary for carrying out the movements of isolated metacarpophalangeal flexion and interphalangeal extension.", "contents": "Movement patterns of interosseus-minus fingers. The patterns of isolated metacarpophalangeal-joint flexion and isolated interphalangeal-joint extension movements in eighty fingers with intact extrinsic and lumbrical muscles but no interossei (so-called interosseus-minus fingers) were studied. The pattern of metacarpophalangeal flexion resembled that seen in fingers with paralysis of all intrinsic muscles. From this it was inferred that in the interosseus-minus finger the lumbrical muscles are inactive during this movement. The pattern of isolated interphalangeal extension in the interosseus-minus fingers showed an improvement over that in totally intrinsic-minus fingers, suggesting that the lumbrical muscles reduce the extending forces at the metacarpophalangeal joint to some extent. Active participation of the interosseus muscles appears to be necessary for carrying out the movements of isolated metacarpophalangeal flexion and interphalangeal extension.", "PMID": 438243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3938", "title": "Recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder. Results after the Bankart and Putti-Platt operations.", "content": "A postoperative follow-up of one and one-half to ten years was obtained in 114 of 121 patients who underwent either a Bankart or a modified Putti-Platt procedure. In the forty-six patients who had a Bankart operation, there was one recurrence (2 per cent) compared with thirteen recurrences (19 per cent) in the sixty-eight patients who had a modified Putti-Platt procedure. Twelve (36 per cent) of the latter recurrences occurred in patients who were twenty-five years old or younger at the time of the operation and only one occurred in the patients who were more than twenty-five years old. The restriction of outward rotation after shortening of the subscapular tendon averaged 6 degrees as compared with 16 degrees after a Bankart operation. A modified Putti-Platt procedure (shortening of the subscapular tendon) is recommended only for patients who are more than thirty years old. It does offer certain advantages for them because of the simplicity of the procedure and the short duration of the operation.", "contents": "Recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder. Results after the Bankart and Putti-Platt operations. A postoperative follow-up of one and one-half to ten years was obtained in 114 of 121 patients who underwent either a Bankart or a modified Putti-Platt procedure. In the forty-six patients who had a Bankart operation, there was one recurrence (2 per cent) compared with thirteen recurrences (19 per cent) in the sixty-eight patients who had a modified Putti-Platt procedure. Twelve (36 per cent) of the latter recurrences occurred in patients who were twenty-five years old or younger at the time of the operation and only one occurred in the patients who were more than twenty-five years old. The restriction of outward rotation after shortening of the subscapular tendon averaged 6 degrees as compared with 16 degrees after a Bankart operation. A modified Putti-Platt procedure (shortening of the subscapular tendon) is recommended only for patients who are more than thirty years old. It does offer certain advantages for them because of the simplicity of the procedure and the short duration of the operation.", "PMID": 438244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3939", "title": "The semiconstrained total shoulder arthroplasty.", "content": "In a two-year follow-up on sixteen total shoulder arthroplasties done with the semiconstrained Stanmore prosthesis, we found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint noted a greater relief of pain, were more satisfied with their surgery, used fewer analgesics, and had a greater increase in range of motion than patients with traumatic arthritis. Patients with irreparable rotator-cuff injury demonstrated the poorest range of motion postoperatively. Younger patients gained significantly more motion than older patients. All patients continued to have difficulty with lifting heavy loads. Complications consisted of one patient with a chronically dislocating prosthesis, one patient with a deep wound infection, and one with a postoperative wound dehiscence. The average follow-up was 31.4 months, ranging from twenty-four to fifty-three months.", "contents": "The semiconstrained total shoulder arthroplasty. In a two-year follow-up on sixteen total shoulder arthroplasties done with the semiconstrained Stanmore prosthesis, we found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint noted a greater relief of pain, were more satisfied with their surgery, used fewer analgesics, and had a greater increase in range of motion than patients with traumatic arthritis. Patients with irreparable rotator-cuff injury demonstrated the poorest range of motion postoperatively. Younger patients gained significantly more motion than older patients. All patients continued to have difficulty with lifting heavy loads. Complications consisted of one patient with a chronically dislocating prosthesis, one patient with a deep wound infection, and one with a postoperative wound dehiscence. The average follow-up was 31.4 months, ranging from twenty-four to fifty-three months.", "PMID": 438245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3940", "title": "Ligament injuries in the knees of children.", "content": "Injuries of the medial collateral ligament in children are rarely reported. We are describing six tears of the medial collateral ligament in which an operative repair was done. The patients' ages were six to eleven years. Five were boys and one, a girl. The follow-up (seven months to thirteen years) showed normal results in three; good, in two; and fair, in one. Three patients also had had an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament or an avulsion injury to the anterior tibial spine.", "contents": "Ligament injuries in the knees of children. Injuries of the medial collateral ligament in children are rarely reported. We are describing six tears of the medial collateral ligament in which an operative repair was done. The patients' ages were six to eleven years. Five were boys and one, a girl. The follow-up (seven months to thirteen years) showed normal results in three; good, in two; and fair, in one. Three patients also had had an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament or an avulsion injury to the anterior tibial spine.", "PMID": 438247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3941", "title": "Congenital deficiency of the fibula.", "content": "Ninety-seven limbs, in eighty-one patients, with a diagnosis of congenital deficiency of the fibula have been reviewed. A classification was devised to distinguish the minimal hypoplasia of the fibula (Type I) from the well-known complete absence (Type II). Congenital anomalies of the femur were present in 76 per cent of patients with Type I deficiency and in 59 per cent with Type II. The shortening of the limb was by 13 per cent in Type I and by 19 per cent in Type II, and the percentage shortening was fairly constant during growth. A detailed description of the spectrum of other congenital anomalies was found to be characteristic: for example, the ball and socket formation of the ankle, tarsal coalition and anomalies of the foot. The treatment aimed simply to equalise leg length in Type I deficiency, while amputation of the foot and the fitting of a prosthesis were necessary in Type II to obtain satisfactory function.", "contents": "Congenital deficiency of the fibula. Ninety-seven limbs, in eighty-one patients, with a diagnosis of congenital deficiency of the fibula have been reviewed. A classification was devised to distinguish the minimal hypoplasia of the fibula (Type I) from the well-known complete absence (Type II). Congenital anomalies of the femur were present in 76 per cent of patients with Type I deficiency and in 59 per cent with Type II. The shortening of the limb was by 13 per cent in Type I and by 19 per cent in Type II, and the percentage shortening was fairly constant during growth. A detailed description of the spectrum of other congenital anomalies was found to be characteristic: for example, the ball and socket formation of the ankle, tarsal coalition and anomalies of the foot. The treatment aimed simply to equalise leg length in Type I deficiency, while amputation of the foot and the fitting of a prosthesis were necessary in Type II to obtain satisfactory function.", "PMID": 438260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3942", "title": "A histological study of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the head of the femur.", "content": "We have studied the histological appearances of forty femoral heads with idiopathic avascular necrosis. The characteristic histopathological changes of recurrent necrosis were present in 83 per cent. Recurrent necrosis occurred widely after revascularisation had progressed as far as the subchondral zone. The aetiology of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the femoral head may be a chronic condition which produces repeated infarction. The deformation and incomplete revascularisation of the femoral head may be due to repeated episodes of infarction as well as to mechanical factors related to weight-bearing.", "contents": "A histological study of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the head of the femur. We have studied the histological appearances of forty femoral heads with idiopathic avascular necrosis. The characteristic histopathological changes of recurrent necrosis were present in 83 per cent. Recurrent necrosis occurred widely after revascularisation had progressed as far as the subchondral zone. The aetiology of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the femoral head may be a chronic condition which produces repeated infarction. The deformation and incomplete revascularisation of the femoral head may be due to repeated episodes of infarction as well as to mechanical factors related to weight-bearing.", "PMID": 438261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3943", "title": "Low-friction arthroplasty for healed septic and tuberculous arthritis.", "content": "Forty hips, which had previously been the site of tuberculous or pyogenic arthritis and which had later developed a degenerative arthritis, were treated by low-friction arthroplasty some forty years after the original infection. The results suggest that, when healing of the primary infection has been followed by a long period of quiescence with acceptable function before the onset of degenerative change, the arthroplasty can be confidently expected to result in greatly improved function and that this improvement is long-lasting.", "contents": "Low-friction arthroplasty for healed septic and tuberculous arthritis. Forty hips, which had previously been the site of tuberculous or pyogenic arthritis and which had later developed a degenerative arthritis, were treated by low-friction arthroplasty some forty years after the original infection. The results suggest that, when healing of the primary infection has been followed by a long period of quiescence with acceptable function before the onset of degenerative change, the arthroplasty can be confidently expected to result in greatly improved function and that this improvement is long-lasting.", "PMID": 438262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3944", "title": "The treatment of femoral fractures by cast-brace and early walking: a review of seventy-nine patients.", "content": "Seventy-nine cases of fracture of the femoral shaft treated by cast-brace and early walking have been reviewed. Discrepancy in femoral length was assessed by scanogram. The cases were analysed to relate the incidence of shortening greater than 2 centimetres to the type and site of the fracture, and the time which elapsed from injury until the cast-brace was applied. Such shortening was encountered most frequently when the cast-brace was applied within the first two weeks from injury or after six weeks and in those patients with comminuted fractures of the middle third of the femoral shaft.", "contents": "The treatment of femoral fractures by cast-brace and early walking: a review of seventy-nine patients. Seventy-nine cases of fracture of the femoral shaft treated by cast-brace and early walking have been reviewed. Discrepancy in femoral length was assessed by scanogram. The cases were analysed to relate the incidence of shortening greater than 2 centimetres to the type and site of the fracture, and the time which elapsed from injury until the cast-brace was applied. Such shortening was encountered most frequently when the cast-brace was applied within the first two weeks from injury or after six weeks and in those patients with comminuted fractures of the middle third of the femoral shaft.", "PMID": 438264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3945", "title": "Arthrodesis of the shoulder in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of forty-one cases.", "content": "Forty-one arthrodeses of the shoulder in thirty-nine patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (thirty women, nine men) have been reviewed. Using internal fixation and external splints the position of the shoulder was maintained in 55 degrees of abduction, 25 degrees of horizontal flexion and enough internal rotation to allow the patient to reach the mouth. The mean period of immobilisation in a thoracobrachial splint was nine weeks, and 90 per cent of the shoulders had solid bony fusion at review. After arthrodesis the total range of scapulothoracic movement improved by about 60 per cent, giving results rated as excellent in fifteen cases (36 per cent), as good in thirteen (32 per cent) and as fair in thirteen (32 per cent). Arthrodesis can be recommended as an easy, cheap and reliable method of treating a shoulder which has been severely destroyed by rheumatoid arthritis.", "contents": "Arthrodesis of the shoulder in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of forty-one cases. Forty-one arthrodeses of the shoulder in thirty-nine patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (thirty women, nine men) have been reviewed. Using internal fixation and external splints the position of the shoulder was maintained in 55 degrees of abduction, 25 degrees of horizontal flexion and enough internal rotation to allow the patient to reach the mouth. The mean period of immobilisation in a thoracobrachial splint was nine weeks, and 90 per cent of the shoulders had solid bony fusion at review. After arthrodesis the total range of scapulothoracic movement improved by about 60 per cent, giving results rated as excellent in fifteen cases (36 per cent), as good in thirteen (32 per cent) and as fair in thirteen (32 per cent). Arthrodesis can be recommended as an easy, cheap and reliable method of treating a shoulder which has been severely destroyed by rheumatoid arthritis.", "PMID": 438265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3946", "title": "The results of operation for ulnar neuritis.", "content": "The records of 110 cases of ulnar neuritis in 100 patients have been reviewed an average of 4.4 years after anterior transposition, or release of the aponeurosis. Seventy of the patients were reviewed personally. In over half the cases no precipitating cause was apparent. At operation the nerve was constricted by the flexor carpi ulnaris aponeurosis in fifty cases but in twenty-five no abnormal pathology was found. Recovery was greatest when operation was performed within three months of the onset of symptoms. In those cases where no abnormality was found, and those in which adhesions in the postcondylar groove involved the nerve, simple release was less effective than anterior transposition. It is therefore recommended that release be restricted to patients with a short history and with an obvious aponeurotic constriction unaccompanied by adhesions. Anterior transposition is the operation of choice where no abnormality is seen or where the nerve is dislocated, compressed or tethered proximal to the aponeurosis of flexor carpi ulnaris.", "contents": "The results of operation for ulnar neuritis. The records of 110 cases of ulnar neuritis in 100 patients have been reviewed an average of 4.4 years after anterior transposition, or release of the aponeurosis. Seventy of the patients were reviewed personally. In over half the cases no precipitating cause was apparent. At operation the nerve was constricted by the flexor carpi ulnaris aponeurosis in fifty cases but in twenty-five no abnormal pathology was found. Recovery was greatest when operation was performed within three months of the onset of symptoms. In those cases where no abnormality was found, and those in which adhesions in the postcondylar groove involved the nerve, simple release was less effective than anterior transposition. It is therefore recommended that release be restricted to patients with a short history and with an obvious aponeurotic constriction unaccompanied by adhesions. Anterior transposition is the operation of choice where no abnormality is seen or where the nerve is dislocated, compressed or tethered proximal to the aponeurosis of flexor carpi ulnaris.", "PMID": 438266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3947", "title": "Sleeve fractures of the patella in children: a report of three cases.", "content": "The clinical characteristics of sleeve fractures of the patella are described and the methods of treatment are reviewed. Attention is drawn to the fact that the diagnosis may be missed because the distal bony fragment may be so small as not to be detectable by radiography. This is important because a large fragment of articular cartilage also separates. The best result was obtained from reconstitution of the extensor apparatus by internal fixation of the patellar fracture with repair of the quadriceps expansion.", "contents": "Sleeve fractures of the patella in children: a report of three cases. The clinical characteristics of sleeve fractures of the patella are described and the methods of treatment are reviewed. Attention is drawn to the fact that the diagnosis may be missed because the distal bony fragment may be so small as not to be detectable by radiography. This is important because a large fragment of articular cartilage also separates. The best result was obtained from reconstitution of the extensor apparatus by internal fixation of the patellar fracture with repair of the quadriceps expansion.", "PMID": 438267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3948", "title": "An electromyographic investigation of subluxation of the patella.", "content": "An electromyographic investigation of patients with subluxation of the patella has been carried out on the parts of the extensor apparatus which actively contribute to the alignment of the patella, both before and after the operation to correct this disorder. The electromyographic pictures have revealed a sharp fall in the activity of the vastus medialis, with full recovery to normal values after a corrective operation. Even if the aligning function of the patella is altered by a variety of factors, the present study confirms the importance of the vastus medialis in the pathogenesis of malalignment of the extensor mechanism.", "contents": "An electromyographic investigation of subluxation of the patella. An electromyographic investigation of patients with subluxation of the patella has been carried out on the parts of the extensor apparatus which actively contribute to the alignment of the patella, both before and after the operation to correct this disorder. The electromyographic pictures have revealed a sharp fall in the activity of the vastus medialis, with full recovery to normal values after a corrective operation. Even if the aligning function of the patella is altered by a variety of factors, the present study confirms the importance of the vastus medialis in the pathogenesis of malalignment of the extensor mechanism.", "PMID": 438268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3949", "title": "The \"small patella\" syndrome.", "content": "Twelve closely related members of one family were found to have small or absent patellae. Seven of these patients also had abnormalities of the pelvic girdle and upper femora. There was a resemblance to the nail--patella syndrome in the patellar abnormalities but not in the associated conditions, and it would therefore appear that the syndrome described is a new variety of congenital abnormality of the knee.", "contents": "The \"small patella\" syndrome. Twelve closely related members of one family were found to have small or absent patellae. Seven of these patients also had abnormalities of the pelvic girdle and upper femora. There was a resemblance to the nail--patella syndrome in the patellar abnormalities but not in the associated conditions, and it would therefore appear that the syndrome described is a new variety of congenital abnormality of the knee.", "PMID": 438269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3950", "title": "Hallux valgus in the younger patient: the structural abnormality.", "content": "Standardised radiographs of the weight-bearing foot were analysed in fifty young patients undergoing osteotomy of the first metatarsal for hallux valgus. True metatarsus primus varus was not found more frequently than in a control series. The intermetatarsal angle was significantly greater in affected feet compared with controls. The structural abnormality in hallux valgus in the young is therefore due to a valgus disposition of the second and subsequent metatarsals, rather than varus inclination of the first metatarsal.", "contents": "Hallux valgus in the younger patient: the structural abnormality. Standardised radiographs of the weight-bearing foot were analysed in fifty young patients undergoing osteotomy of the first metatarsal for hallux valgus. True metatarsus primus varus was not found more frequently than in a control series. The intermetatarsal angle was significantly greater in affected feet compared with controls. The structural abnormality in hallux valgus in the young is therefore due to a valgus disposition of the second and subsequent metatarsals, rather than varus inclination of the first metatarsal.", "PMID": 438270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3951", "title": "Old fibrin coagula and their ossification in simple bone cysts.", "content": "Old calcified fibrin coagula are frequently found in simple bone cysts. They provide a scaffold on which new bone is laid down, in a process analogous to endochondral ossification. It is suggested that these coagula are derived in substantial part from the plasma-like contents of the cyst, after the release of plasma-clotting factors as the result of injury. Major haemorrhage is not involved and in many cases there is no antecedent fracture. The phenomenon is not seen in other common cystic conditions of bone and its recognition is thus helpful in the histological diagnosis of simple bone cyst. Cystic bone infarcts and their possible confusion with simple bone cysts are also briefly discussed.", "contents": "Old fibrin coagula and their ossification in simple bone cysts. Old calcified fibrin coagula are frequently found in simple bone cysts. They provide a scaffold on which new bone is laid down, in a process analogous to endochondral ossification. It is suggested that these coagula are derived in substantial part from the plasma-like contents of the cyst, after the release of plasma-clotting factors as the result of injury. Major haemorrhage is not involved and in many cases there is no antecedent fracture. The phenomenon is not seen in other common cystic conditions of bone and its recognition is thus helpful in the histological diagnosis of simple bone cyst. Cystic bone infarcts and their possible confusion with simple bone cysts are also briefly discussed.", "PMID": 438271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3952", "title": "The effects of methylprednisolone acetate in the treatment of bone cysts. Results of three years follow-up.", "content": "The treatment of bone cysts by topical injection of methylprednisolone acetate was initiated at the end of 1973, and the late results are reported in this paper. In seventy-two cases followed up for one to three years favourable results have been obtained in about 90 per cent. The technique of local injection and the surgical equipment employed, in the case of focal recurrences, are considered. With this method, surgical treatment of bone cysts in youth is seldom necessary.", "contents": "The effects of methylprednisolone acetate in the treatment of bone cysts. Results of three years follow-up. The treatment of bone cysts by topical injection of methylprednisolone acetate was initiated at the end of 1973, and the late results are reported in this paper. In seventy-two cases followed up for one to three years favourable results have been obtained in about 90 per cent. The technique of local injection and the surgical equipment employed, in the case of focal recurrences, are considered. With this method, surgical treatment of bone cysts in youth is seldom necessary.", "PMID": 438272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3953", "title": "School screening for scoliosis in Athens.", "content": "A randomly selected sample of 3494 children evenly representing a total population of 37 391 schoolchildren aged between eleven and twelve was screened for idiopathic scoliosis by the bending test. Ten per cent of the children showed clinical evidence of scoliosis and 6.4 per cent had positive radiological findings. Small curves were equally distributed between the two sexes, while large ones were more common in girls. Children with fair hair and blue eyes showed a higher percentage of positive findings than children with a dark complexion. A group of 112 children with curves between 7 and 16 degrees were followed up for an average of nineteen months. The pattern and evolution of these curves showed their close relationship to established scoliosis. Potential factors of instability and deterioration of the curves were evaluated.", "contents": "School screening for scoliosis in Athens. A randomly selected sample of 3494 children evenly representing a total population of 37 391 schoolchildren aged between eleven and twelve was screened for idiopathic scoliosis by the bending test. Ten per cent of the children showed clinical evidence of scoliosis and 6.4 per cent had positive radiological findings. Small curves were equally distributed between the two sexes, while large ones were more common in girls. Children with fair hair and blue eyes showed a higher percentage of positive findings than children with a dark complexion. A group of 112 children with curves between 7 and 16 degrees were followed up for an average of nineteen months. The pattern and evolution of these curves showed their close relationship to established scoliosis. Potential factors of instability and deterioration of the curves were evaluated.", "PMID": 438274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3954", "title": "The role of the periosteum in the growth of long bones. An experimental study in the rabbit.", "content": "Hemicircumferential division of the periosteum was performed on the upper tibia of the rabbit. Division of the medial side regularly caused a valgus angulation, but other injuries about the upper tibia had no effect. The cause of deformity after periosteal damage is discussed.", "contents": "The role of the periosteum in the growth of long bones. An experimental study in the rabbit. Hemicircumferential division of the periosteum was performed on the upper tibia of the rabbit. Division of the medial side regularly caused a valgus angulation, but other injuries about the upper tibia had no effect. The cause of deformity after periosteal damage is discussed.", "PMID": 438275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3955", "title": "Autoradiography of technetium-labelled diphosphonate in rat bone.", "content": "The passage of technetium-labelled methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) across rat bone was examined by autoradiography. The autoradiographs showed that shortly after an injection of the bone-seeking agent there was activity outside the bone, within the bone marrow and also adjacent to the highly vascular epiphysial plate; the distribution of the isotope in the incubated bone appeared to be non-uniform, a high concentration being seen adjacent to the epiphysial plate and also on the surfaces of the bone. The evidence suggested that a two-fold mechanism resulted in the uneven distribution of 99mTc-MDP. The first factor probably represented the regional distribution of blood flow with a transcapillary movement of the tracer from the capillary bed to the extravascular space; the subsequent incorporation of the tracer into bone appeared to depend on the nature of the bone matrix.", "contents": "Autoradiography of technetium-labelled diphosphonate in rat bone. The passage of technetium-labelled methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) across rat bone was examined by autoradiography. The autoradiographs showed that shortly after an injection of the bone-seeking agent there was activity outside the bone, within the bone marrow and also adjacent to the highly vascular epiphysial plate; the distribution of the isotope in the incubated bone appeared to be non-uniform, a high concentration being seen adjacent to the epiphysial plate and also on the surfaces of the bone. The evidence suggested that a two-fold mechanism resulted in the uneven distribution of 99mTc-MDP. The first factor probably represented the regional distribution of blood flow with a transcapillary movement of the tracer from the capillary bed to the extravascular space; the subsequent incorporation of the tracer into bone appeared to depend on the nature of the bone matrix.", "PMID": 438276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3956", "title": "A possible mechanism for island formation by rat ascites hepatoma cells with special reference to the function of aggregation factor at the cell surface.", "content": "Two tumor cell-aggregation factors of glycoprotein nature, separated from rat ascites hepatoma AH136B cells (forming cell islands in vivo), had different antigenicity; one was not absorbed by immunoadsorbent chromatography with anti-rat serum antibody and the other was. The unabsorbed factor induced aggregation (as shown in the form of simple apposition) of rat ascites hepatoma AH109A cells (present as a free form in vivo) and cell adhesiveness characterized by well-defined tripartite junctional complexes, including intermediate junctions, desmosomes, and tight junctions. In contrast, the absorbed factor from AH136B cells, AH109A cells or normal rat serum aggregated AH109A cells but failed to develop the junctional complexes; only simple apposition was observed. AH109A cells themselves contained the absorbed factor but not the unabsorbed factor. AH136B cells proliferating in the skin developed the junctional complexes, while AH109A cells proliferating in the skin did not from any junctional complexes.", "contents": "A possible mechanism for island formation by rat ascites hepatoma cells with special reference to the function of aggregation factor at the cell surface. Two tumor cell-aggregation factors of glycoprotein nature, separated from rat ascites hepatoma AH136B cells (forming cell islands in vivo), had different antigenicity; one was not absorbed by immunoadsorbent chromatography with anti-rat serum antibody and the other was. The unabsorbed factor induced aggregation (as shown in the form of simple apposition) of rat ascites hepatoma AH109A cells (present as a free form in vivo) and cell adhesiveness characterized by well-defined tripartite junctional complexes, including intermediate junctions, desmosomes, and tight junctions. In contrast, the absorbed factor from AH136B cells, AH109A cells or normal rat serum aggregated AH109A cells but failed to develop the junctional complexes; only simple apposition was observed. AH109A cells themselves contained the absorbed factor but not the unabsorbed factor. AH136B cells proliferating in the skin developed the junctional complexes, while AH109A cells proliferating in the skin did not from any junctional complexes.", "PMID": 438278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3957", "title": "[Tumor prevention by vitamin A: in vitro studies with human cultured fibroblasts (author's transl)].", "content": "Following the well established prevention of chemical carcinogenesis by vitamin A in several species of laboratory animals, we performed in vitro studies with human diploid fibroblasts in culture. Vitamin A-palmitate, alltransretinoic acid and the analogue compound Ro 10-9359 were found to reduce the formation of active intermediates following the administration of G3H Benzo(a)pyrene to the cells. This effect which lead to a considerable decrease of alkylated DNA is not based on a direct inhibition of Benzpyrene metabolizing enzymes by the retinoids but by a preferential inhibition of the de novo synthesis of these enzymes. This caused the well known substrate mediated enzyme induction of benzpyrene metabolizing enzymes to cease. From our data we conclude that the mechanism of the cancer protective effect of vitamin A with respect to certain carcinogens is based on an inhibited activation of procarcinogens. This effect can also be expected in human tissues.", "contents": "[Tumor prevention by vitamin A: in vitro studies with human cultured fibroblasts (author's transl)]. Following the well established prevention of chemical carcinogenesis by vitamin A in several species of laboratory animals, we performed in vitro studies with human diploid fibroblasts in culture. Vitamin A-palmitate, alltransretinoic acid and the analogue compound Ro 10-9359 were found to reduce the formation of active intermediates following the administration of G3H Benzo(a)pyrene to the cells. This effect which lead to a considerable decrease of alkylated DNA is not based on a direct inhibition of Benzpyrene metabolizing enzymes by the retinoids but by a preferential inhibition of the de novo synthesis of these enzymes. This caused the well known substrate mediated enzyme induction of benzpyrene metabolizing enzymes to cease. From our data we conclude that the mechanism of the cancer protective effect of vitamin A with respect to certain carcinogens is based on an inhibited activation of procarcinogens. This effect can also be expected in human tissues.", "PMID": 438279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3958", "title": "[Permeability of N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamido-phosphoric-acid into tumor cells (author's transl)].", "content": "The uptake of tritiated N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamido-phosphoric-acid into Ehrlich-Ascites-Tumor cells of mice was studied by means of the siliconoil-filtration technique. At 10 mM concentration no permeation of the metabolite into the tumor cells could be found within 5 min at 1 degrees C, while its congenors cyclophosphamide and 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (1 mM) were shown to permeate into the cells very easily reaching saturation values. Thus lack of permeation into tumor cells of N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamidophosphoric-acid seems to be the reason for the poor cytotoxic activity of this metabolite of cyclophosphamide.", "contents": "[Permeability of N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamido-phosphoric-acid into tumor cells (author's transl)]. The uptake of tritiated N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamido-phosphoric-acid into Ehrlich-Ascites-Tumor cells of mice was studied by means of the siliconoil-filtration technique. At 10 mM concentration no permeation of the metabolite into the tumor cells could be found within 5 min at 1 degrees C, while its congenors cyclophosphamide and 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (1 mM) were shown to permeate into the cells very easily reaching saturation values. Thus lack of permeation into tumor cells of N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-diamidophosphoric-acid seems to be the reason for the poor cytotoxic activity of this metabolite of cyclophosphamide.", "PMID": 438280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3959", "title": "Interstitial cell carcinomas of the testis in Balb/C male mice ingesting methoxychlor.", "content": "Balb/c and C3H strains male and female mice ingested 750 ppm methoxychlor or 100 ppm DDT in the diet for 2 years. Balb/c strain male mice ingesting methoxychlor developed a highly significant incidence of interstitial cell carcinomas of the testis. Balb/c strain male mice ingesting DDT and C3H strain male mice receiving methoxychlor or DDT did not have testicular tumors. The carcinomas of the testis varied from well-differentiated to poorly differentiated and undifferentiated and were capable of metastasis. Carcinomas of the testis have been described in Balb/c strain male mice, but not C3H, given estrogens. The carcinogenicity for testis of Balb/c strain male mice is most likely related to the estrogenic activity of methoxychlor.", "contents": "Interstitial cell carcinomas of the testis in Balb/C male mice ingesting methoxychlor. Balb/c and C3H strains male and female mice ingested 750 ppm methoxychlor or 100 ppm DDT in the diet for 2 years. Balb/c strain male mice ingesting methoxychlor developed a highly significant incidence of interstitial cell carcinomas of the testis. Balb/c strain male mice ingesting DDT and C3H strain male mice receiving methoxychlor or DDT did not have testicular tumors. The carcinomas of the testis varied from well-differentiated to poorly differentiated and undifferentiated and were capable of metastasis. Carcinomas of the testis have been described in Balb/c strain male mice, but not C3H, given estrogens. The carcinogenicity for testis of Balb/c strain male mice is most likely related to the estrogenic activity of methoxychlor.", "PMID": 438281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3960", "title": "Intermittent combination chemotherapy with chlorambucil and prednisone of low-grade malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphomas according to the Kiel classification.", "content": "Fourty-three of 61 patients suffering from low-grade malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphomas according to the Kiel classification were subjected to an intermittent combination chemotherapy with chlorambucil and prednisone. In 12 of 35 evaluable patients a complete remission, in 14 of 35 a partial remission could be achieved. The mean remission time of patients with a complete remission exceeds 16 months, that of patients with a partial remission amounts to more than 8 months. In 9 of 35 cases a remission could not be achieved. As 10 of the 12 patients in whom a complete remission could be obtained are alive, the median survival time in cases of complete remission cannot yet be determined. The hematological toxicity was very low, nausea and lack of appetite were observed in 9 of 35 patients. Three of 35 treated and evaluable patients died, viz., 1 patient with a centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma and 1 patient with a chronic lymphocytic leukemia died from the sequelae of progression during the chemotherapy of second choice according to the COP regimen. The third patient with a centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma died from the sequelae of an intrahepatic cholestatic icterus, also during the chemotherapy of second choice according to the COP regimen. In the last-mentioned case, autopsy also confirmed a continuous complete remission of the centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma.", "contents": "Intermittent combination chemotherapy with chlorambucil and prednisone of low-grade malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphomas according to the Kiel classification. Fourty-three of 61 patients suffering from low-grade malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphomas according to the Kiel classification were subjected to an intermittent combination chemotherapy with chlorambucil and prednisone. In 12 of 35 evaluable patients a complete remission, in 14 of 35 a partial remission could be achieved. The mean remission time of patients with a complete remission exceeds 16 months, that of patients with a partial remission amounts to more than 8 months. In 9 of 35 cases a remission could not be achieved. As 10 of the 12 patients in whom a complete remission could be obtained are alive, the median survival time in cases of complete remission cannot yet be determined. The hematological toxicity was very low, nausea and lack of appetite were observed in 9 of 35 patients. Three of 35 treated and evaluable patients died, viz., 1 patient with a centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma and 1 patient with a chronic lymphocytic leukemia died from the sequelae of progression during the chemotherapy of second choice according to the COP regimen. The third patient with a centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma died from the sequelae of an intrahepatic cholestatic icterus, also during the chemotherapy of second choice according to the COP regimen. In the last-mentioned case, autopsy also confirmed a continuous complete remission of the centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma.", "PMID": 438282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3961", "title": "The presence and significance of the Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen in mammary gland. II. Its topochemistry in normal, hyperplastic and carcinoma tissue of the breast.", "content": "Normal tissue as well as various benign and malignant lesions of the breast were histochemically examined for the presence of the Thomsen-Friedenreich (TF)-antigen. Fluorescein- or 3H-labelled peanut agglutinin was used for this purpose, a lectin that is known to have a high affinity for the TF-antigen. The occurrence of this TF-antigen seemed in all cases, even in the carcinoma lobulare in situ that is regarded as being derived from myoepithelial cells by some authors, to be associated with a secretory condition. Its presence (free and neuraminic acid covered) in normal, hyperplastic and malignant breast tissue, however, cannot be considered a specific tumour associated antigen as has been previously assumed. Furthermore the investigations have shown that the intensity of fluorescence for peanut agglutinin (PNA)-receptors was generally stronger in differentiated carcinomas than in undifferentiated carcinomas of the breast. The histochemical findings are discussed with regard to diagnostical and immunotherapeutical aspects.", "contents": "The presence and significance of the Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen in mammary gland. II. Its topochemistry in normal, hyperplastic and carcinoma tissue of the breast. Normal tissue as well as various benign and malignant lesions of the breast were histochemically examined for the presence of the Thomsen-Friedenreich (TF)-antigen. Fluorescein- or 3H-labelled peanut agglutinin was used for this purpose, a lectin that is known to have a high affinity for the TF-antigen. The occurrence of this TF-antigen seemed in all cases, even in the carcinoma lobulare in situ that is regarded as being derived from myoepithelial cells by some authors, to be associated with a secretory condition. Its presence (free and neuraminic acid covered) in normal, hyperplastic and malignant breast tissue, however, cannot be considered a specific tumour associated antigen as has been previously assumed. Furthermore the investigations have shown that the intensity of fluorescence for peanut agglutinin (PNA)-receptors was generally stronger in differentiated carcinomas than in undifferentiated carcinomas of the breast. The histochemical findings are discussed with regard to diagnostical and immunotherapeutical aspects.", "PMID": 438283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3962", "title": "Iatrogenic vascular injuries. A review of 125 cases (excluding angiographic injuries).", "content": "From the files of an insurance company and from a number of our own files as expert medical witness to the court we have been able to collect 125 cases of malpractice suits following a iatrogenic vascular injury. An analytic study has revealed the following: --12 vascular injuries occurred after stripping of varicose veins of the lower extremities; --4 accidents occurred during arterial surgery; --35 lesions followed orthopedic surgery; and --2 general surgery. Besides these 53 injuries following surgical procedures, 72 injuries are described following non-surgical diagnostic or therapeutic procedures: --sclerotherapy of varicose veins or angiomas: 34 cases; --injection of anesthesic agents: 20 cases; --injections, infusions, catheterisms: 16 cases; and --endoscopic procedures: 2 cases. Vascular risk exists in almost all medico-surgical procedures and requires constant and careful attention since professional responsibility is easily involved. Early recognition and early correction of the vascular lesion reduce the incidence and the gravity of the complications.", "contents": "Iatrogenic vascular injuries. A review of 125 cases (excluding angiographic injuries). From the files of an insurance company and from a number of our own files as expert medical witness to the court we have been able to collect 125 cases of malpractice suits following a iatrogenic vascular injury. An analytic study has revealed the following: --12 vascular injuries occurred after stripping of varicose veins of the lower extremities; --4 accidents occurred during arterial surgery; --35 lesions followed orthopedic surgery; and --2 general surgery. Besides these 53 injuries following surgical procedures, 72 injuries are described following non-surgical diagnostic or therapeutic procedures: --sclerotherapy of varicose veins or angiomas: 34 cases; --injection of anesthesic agents: 20 cases; --injections, infusions, catheterisms: 16 cases; and --endoscopic procedures: 2 cases. Vascular risk exists in almost all medico-surgical procedures and requires constant and careful attention since professional responsibility is easily involved. Early recognition and early correction of the vascular lesion reduce the incidence and the gravity of the complications.", "PMID": 438287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3963", "title": "Peroperative flow and pressure measurements in profundaplasty.", "content": "In twelve patients, the fluid resistance across the origin of the profunda femoris artery was assessed by flow and pressure recordings, before reconstructive profundaplasty was performed. There was a considerable range of resistance values obtained and in the eight patients having repeat flow and pressure recordings following the reconstruction in only five patients was there a reduction in the fluid resistance. This suggests that not all atheromatous plaques at the profunda femoris origin produce a blood flow disturbance to warrant profundaplasty, and may explain the variable results reported following this operation.", "contents": "Peroperative flow and pressure measurements in profundaplasty. In twelve patients, the fluid resistance across the origin of the profunda femoris artery was assessed by flow and pressure recordings, before reconstructive profundaplasty was performed. There was a considerable range of resistance values obtained and in the eight patients having repeat flow and pressure recordings following the reconstruction in only five patients was there a reduction in the fluid resistance. This suggests that not all atheromatous plaques at the profunda femoris origin produce a blood flow disturbance to warrant profundaplasty, and may explain the variable results reported following this operation.", "PMID": 438289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3964", "title": "Intracardiac repair of tetralogy of Fallot in adults.", "content": "This study demonstrates that total surgical correction in tetralogy of Fallot is a gratifying procedure even with advancing age especially when one reckons that a great majority of these patients showed pronounced disability at the time of surgery without the benefit of previous palliative procedures. However, there are technical difficulties in accomplishing repair in the fibrotic hearts of older patents. The early mortality and long term benefits in this age group closely parallel those in our over all experience with surgery for this anomaly. There was a 12.5% early and 10% late mortality in this series. Surviving patients have been followed up for a period ranging from 1 to 10 years (mean 18 months) and are found to be leading normal active lives.", "contents": "Intracardiac repair of tetralogy of Fallot in adults. This study demonstrates that total surgical correction in tetralogy of Fallot is a gratifying procedure even with advancing age especially when one reckons that a great majority of these patients showed pronounced disability at the time of surgery without the benefit of previous palliative procedures. However, there are technical difficulties in accomplishing repair in the fibrotic hearts of older patents. The early mortality and long term benefits in this age group closely parallel those in our over all experience with surgery for this anomaly. There was a 12.5% early and 10% late mortality in this series. Surviving patients have been followed up for a period ranging from 1 to 10 years (mean 18 months) and are found to be leading normal active lives.", "PMID": 438284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3965", "title": "Differential effects of inhibition of polyamine biosynthesis on cell cycle traverse and structure of the prematurely condensed chromosomes of normal and transformed cells.", "content": "The objective of this study was to determine the points in the cell cycle at which normal and transformed cells become arrested as a result of polyamine deprivation. Treatment of normal (human fibroblast line PA2 and mouse 3T3) and transformed (CHO, HeLa and SV3T3) cells with methylglyoxal bis-(guanyl-hydrazone) resulted in a significant decrease in the levels of spermidine and spermine which was associated with an inhibition of growth. Examination of the prematurely condensed chromosomes (PCC) of the polyaminedepleted cells, revealed that normal fibroblasts were preferentially arrested in early G1 phase while a majority of cells in the transformed lines were blocked in S phase. A close examination of the PCC of the transformed cells indicated a significant decrease in the number of DNA replication sites suggesting that polyamines have an important role in DNA chain initiation.", "contents": "Differential effects of inhibition of polyamine biosynthesis on cell cycle traverse and structure of the prematurely condensed chromosomes of normal and transformed cells. The objective of this study was to determine the points in the cell cycle at which normal and transformed cells become arrested as a result of polyamine deprivation. Treatment of normal (human fibroblast line PA2 and mouse 3T3) and transformed (CHO, HeLa and SV3T3) cells with methylglyoxal bis-(guanyl-hydrazone) resulted in a significant decrease in the levels of spermidine and spermine which was associated with an inhibition of growth. Examination of the prematurely condensed chromosomes (PCC) of the polyaminedepleted cells, revealed that normal fibroblasts were preferentially arrested in early G1 phase while a majority of cells in the transformed lines were blocked in S phase. A close examination of the PCC of the transformed cells indicated a significant decrease in the number of DNA replication sites suggesting that polyamines have an important role in DNA chain initiation.", "PMID": 438293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3966", "title": "The importance of ornithine as a precursor for proline in mammalian cells.", "content": "Ornithine aminotransferase catalyzes the reversible transamination of L-ornithine to delta1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate, the immediate precursor of proline. The direction and flux through this pathway in mammalian cells has not been established. Glutamate has generally been considered to be the most important precursor for proline biosynthesis, but recent studies in xiphoid cartilage indicate that a significant fraction of cellular proline is derived from ornithine. Using newly isolated mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells with defined defects in the proline biosynthetic pathways, we now have established that cells can grow at a maximal rate with ornithine as the sole source of proline. Furthermore, we have measured the rate of proline formation from ornithine (1.6 nmol/h/10(6) cells); Future studies with these mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells may offer insight into the regulatory mechanism which coordinates proline biosynthesis from ornithine and glutamate.", "contents": "The importance of ornithine as a precursor for proline in mammalian cells. Ornithine aminotransferase catalyzes the reversible transamination of L-ornithine to delta1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate, the immediate precursor of proline. The direction and flux through this pathway in mammalian cells has not been established. Glutamate has generally been considered to be the most important precursor for proline biosynthesis, but recent studies in xiphoid cartilage indicate that a significant fraction of cellular proline is derived from ornithine. Using newly isolated mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells with defined defects in the proline biosynthetic pathways, we now have established that cells can grow at a maximal rate with ornithine as the sole source of proline. Furthermore, we have measured the rate of proline formation from ornithine (1.6 nmol/h/10(6) cells); Future studies with these mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells may offer insight into the regulatory mechanism which coordinates proline biosynthesis from ornithine and glutamate.", "PMID": 438294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3967", "title": "Popliteal artery thrombosis in a young woman, secondary to bony exostosis.", "content": "Idiopathic thrombosis of the popliteal artery in young people is exceedingly uncommon. Previously suggested etiologies are cystic adventitial disease, popliteal entrapment syndrome, Buerger's Disease, juvenile arteriosclerosis and synovial cysts. An instance of popliteal artery thrombosis secondary to compression by a bony exostosis is recorded to call attention to this unusual etiological mechanism in a 21 year old woman. Restoration of arterial continuity was achieved by endarterectomy and a venous patch graft following excision of the bony exostosis.", "contents": "Popliteal artery thrombosis in a young woman, secondary to bony exostosis. Idiopathic thrombosis of the popliteal artery in young people is exceedingly uncommon. Previously suggested etiologies are cystic adventitial disease, popliteal entrapment syndrome, Buerger's Disease, juvenile arteriosclerosis and synovial cysts. An instance of popliteal artery thrombosis secondary to compression by a bony exostosis is recorded to call attention to this unusual etiological mechanism in a 21 year old woman. Restoration of arterial continuity was achieved by endarterectomy and a venous patch graft following excision of the bony exostosis.", "PMID": 438291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3968", "title": "Serum-dependent regulation of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid uptake in bovine granulosa cells.", "content": "The removal of serum from the medium of ovarian granulosa cells in exponential or confluent stages of growth results in a rapid and pronounced decrease in the rate of transport of the non-metabolizable amino acid, alpha-aminoisobutyric acid. This decrease is rapidly and completely reversed by the addition of serum. The decrease and its reversal are insensitive to inhibitors of RNA and protein syntheisis and are unaffected by a number of other metabolic inhibitors. The serum requirement cannot be replaced by peptide hormones known to stimulate cell division and secretion by these cells. These data are consistent with a model of post-translational control of AIB transport by a high-molecular-weight component of serum.", "contents": "Serum-dependent regulation of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid uptake in bovine granulosa cells. The removal of serum from the medium of ovarian granulosa cells in exponential or confluent stages of growth results in a rapid and pronounced decrease in the rate of transport of the non-metabolizable amino acid, alpha-aminoisobutyric acid. This decrease is rapidly and completely reversed by the addition of serum. The decrease and its reversal are insensitive to inhibitors of RNA and protein syntheisis and are unaffected by a number of other metabolic inhibitors. The serum requirement cannot be replaced by peptide hormones known to stimulate cell division and secretion by these cells. These data are consistent with a model of post-translational control of AIB transport by a high-molecular-weight component of serum.", "PMID": 438295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3969", "title": "Ordered replication of DNA sequences: synthesis of mouse satellite and adjacent main band sequences.", "content": "The replication of mouse satellite DNA was delayed when synchronized 3T3 cells were exposed to low concentrations of hydroxyurea during S phase, It appears that the onset of satellite replication is not a time dependent event, but instead requires that a certain amount of main band DNA be synthesized first. Using hydroxyapatite chromatography and S1 nuclease digestion, a procedure was developed to quantitate the synthesis of both satellite and neighboring main band sequences. The replication kinetics of satellite determined by this method agree with previous estimates. Main band sequences adjacent to satellite appear to replicate in concert with satellite DNA. The results are discussed and related to the limitations of the techniques utilized.", "contents": "Ordered replication of DNA sequences: synthesis of mouse satellite and adjacent main band sequences. The replication of mouse satellite DNA was delayed when synchronized 3T3 cells were exposed to low concentrations of hydroxyurea during S phase, It appears that the onset of satellite replication is not a time dependent event, but instead requires that a certain amount of main band DNA be synthesized first. Using hydroxyapatite chromatography and S1 nuclease digestion, a procedure was developed to quantitate the synthesis of both satellite and neighboring main band sequences. The replication kinetics of satellite determined by this method agree with previous estimates. Main band sequences adjacent to satellite appear to replicate in concert with satellite DNA. The results are discussed and related to the limitations of the techniques utilized.", "PMID": 438296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3970", "title": "A comparative study of glycosaminoglycans in cultures of human, normal and malignant glial cells.", "content": "The glycosaminoglycans (GAG) of human cultured normal glial and malignant glioma cell lines were studied using 35S-sulphate or 3H-glucosamine as markers. 35S-labelled GAG were assayed by precipitation with cetylpyridinium chloride; 3H-labelled sulphated GAG and 3H-labelled hyaluronic acid were quantitated after separation on a DEAE-cellulos column. The net production of GAG and the distribution, composition and turnover of GAG were similar in all of the normal cell lines tested, but showed a great variability in the malignant cell lines. Most of the glioma cell lines produced more hyaluronic acid and less sulphated GAG than the normal cell lines, but exceptions were noted. The GAG of the trypsin susceptible (pericellular pool of normal glial cells consisted mainly of heparan sulphate with only minor amounts of other GAG. The analogous material of most glioma cells showed hyaluronic acid as the major GAG. Material liberated by trypsin from EDTA-detached cells (membrane fraction) was enriched in heparan sulphate as compared to the entire pericellular pool. Substrate attached material (SAM) left with the plastic dish after EDTA treatment of normal cultures was rich in heparan sulphate, whereas SAM of glioma cells lacked heparan sulphate or showed greatly reduced amounts of this component. Release of newly synthesized GAG to the extracellular medium was a rapid process in the normal cells but was more or less delayed in the glioma cells. The extracellular medium of the malignant glioma cultures was consistently poor in dermatan sulphate, as compared to that of normal cultures.", "contents": "A comparative study of glycosaminoglycans in cultures of human, normal and malignant glial cells. The glycosaminoglycans (GAG) of human cultured normal glial and malignant glioma cell lines were studied using 35S-sulphate or 3H-glucosamine as markers. 35S-labelled GAG were assayed by precipitation with cetylpyridinium chloride; 3H-labelled sulphated GAG and 3H-labelled hyaluronic acid were quantitated after separation on a DEAE-cellulos column. The net production of GAG and the distribution, composition and turnover of GAG were similar in all of the normal cell lines tested, but showed a great variability in the malignant cell lines. Most of the glioma cell lines produced more hyaluronic acid and less sulphated GAG than the normal cell lines, but exceptions were noted. The GAG of the trypsin susceptible (pericellular pool of normal glial cells consisted mainly of heparan sulphate with only minor amounts of other GAG. The analogous material of most glioma cells showed hyaluronic acid as the major GAG. Material liberated by trypsin from EDTA-detached cells (membrane fraction) was enriched in heparan sulphate as compared to the entire pericellular pool. Substrate attached material (SAM) left with the plastic dish after EDTA treatment of normal cultures was rich in heparan sulphate, whereas SAM of glioma cells lacked heparan sulphate or showed greatly reduced amounts of this component. Release of newly synthesized GAG to the extracellular medium was a rapid process in the normal cells but was more or less delayed in the glioma cells. The extracellular medium of the malignant glioma cultures was consistently poor in dermatan sulphate, as compared to that of normal cultures.", "PMID": 438297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3971", "title": "Fast and slow fractions of K+ flux in human lymphocytes.", "content": "Potassium influx and efflux were studied in human peripheral blood lymphocytes equilibrated over a wide range of external K+ levels. The absence of a net ion movement throughout the flux study was established, trapped space was measured with polyethylene glycol, and cells were separated from incubation media without exposure to any washing solution. There are both rapid and slow cellular fractions of 42K influx and efflux, and half-times of exchange of around 2 minutes, and 400 minutes, respectively. The rapid component is identical in magnitude to the smaller non-saturable component of cell K+, while the slow component is identified with the larger, sigmoidal, saturable component of cell K+ that was previously shown to follow a cooperative adsorption isotherm. These results support the association-induction hypothesis, which predicts (a) a rapid fraction of K+ flux due to equilibration of ion within cell water existing in a state of polarized multilayers, and (b) a slower component of K+ flux limited by adsorption onto, or desorption from, fixed anionic sites existing throughout the cell. K+ influx, as a function of external K+, showed a triphasic relation with a peak around 1 mM K+ex, then a trough around 4mM K+ex, and then a gradual rise. This relation was readily explained, in terms of the association-induction hypothesis, by the cooperative interaction between, and ion occupancy of, fixed anionic sites that adsorb K+ or Na+.", "contents": "Fast and slow fractions of K+ flux in human lymphocytes. Potassium influx and efflux were studied in human peripheral blood lymphocytes equilibrated over a wide range of external K+ levels. The absence of a net ion movement throughout the flux study was established, trapped space was measured with polyethylene glycol, and cells were separated from incubation media without exposure to any washing solution. There are both rapid and slow cellular fractions of 42K influx and efflux, and half-times of exchange of around 2 minutes, and 400 minutes, respectively. The rapid component is identical in magnitude to the smaller non-saturable component of cell K+, while the slow component is identified with the larger, sigmoidal, saturable component of cell K+ that was previously shown to follow a cooperative adsorption isotherm. These results support the association-induction hypothesis, which predicts (a) a rapid fraction of K+ flux due to equilibration of ion within cell water existing in a state of polarized multilayers, and (b) a slower component of K+ flux limited by adsorption onto, or desorption from, fixed anionic sites existing throughout the cell. K+ influx, as a function of external K+, showed a triphasic relation with a peak around 1 mM K+ex, then a trough around 4mM K+ex, and then a gradual rise. This relation was readily explained, in terms of the association-induction hypothesis, by the cooperative interaction between, and ion occupancy of, fixed anionic sites that adsorb K+ or Na+.", "PMID": 438298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3972", "title": "Selective suppression of the transcription of ribosomal genes in mouse-human hybrid cells.", "content": "Mouse-human hybrid cells that preferentially segregate either mouse or human chromosomes were analyzed for their relative content of mouse and human rRNA genes and for their capacity to transcribe these genes. A distinctive Hind III restriction fragment containing 28S rRNA sequences was used to distinguish between mouse and human rDNA and a set of distinctive loop structures in the 45S pre-rRNA was used to distinguish between mouse and human gene transcripts. Our results indicate that the genes of only one species are transcriptionally active in these hybrid cells, even though both sets of genes are present.", "contents": "Selective suppression of the transcription of ribosomal genes in mouse-human hybrid cells. Mouse-human hybrid cells that preferentially segregate either mouse or human chromosomes were analyzed for their relative content of mouse and human rRNA genes and for their capacity to transcribe these genes. A distinctive Hind III restriction fragment containing 28S rRNA sequences was used to distinguish between mouse and human rDNA and a set of distinctive loop structures in the 45S pre-rRNA was used to distinguish between mouse and human gene transcripts. Our results indicate that the genes of only one species are transcriptionally active in these hybrid cells, even though both sets of genes are present.", "PMID": 438299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3973", "title": "Characterization of cell lines showing growth control isolated from both the wild type and a leucyl-tRNA synthetase mutant of Chinese hamster ovary cells.", "content": "The genetic approach to the problem of cellular growth control is limited by the availability of recessive mutations in cell lines which are capable of growth control in vitro. The CHO cell line has yielded many recessive mutations including, for example, tsH1, a temperature sensitive leucyl-tRNA synthetase mutant, which under non-permissive conditions rapidly shuts down protein synthesis and generates uncharged tRNA. Both CHO and tsH1 are transformed, however, and do not respond to environmental stimuli with the coordinated regulation of macromolecular processes observed in normal diploid fibroblasts. We describe here the isolation and characterization of growth control revertants obtained from both CHOwt and tsH1. The best of these GRC+L-73, isolated from tsH1, had 20 chromosomes, one less than tsH1, had normal fibroblastic morphology, would not grow in suspension, required high serum concentrations for growth, grew to relatively low cell densities at saturation in monolayer culture and showed a stationary phase characterized by arrest in a G1-like state with maintenance of high viability for several weeks. It is expected that this line as well as a ts revertant GRC+LR-73 will greatly facilitate the genetic investigation of growth control and, in particular, will help to elucidate the role of uncharged tRNA in the regulation of macromolecular synthesis in mammalian cells.", "contents": "Characterization of cell lines showing growth control isolated from both the wild type and a leucyl-tRNA synthetase mutant of Chinese hamster ovary cells. The genetic approach to the problem of cellular growth control is limited by the availability of recessive mutations in cell lines which are capable of growth control in vitro. The CHO cell line has yielded many recessive mutations including, for example, tsH1, a temperature sensitive leucyl-tRNA synthetase mutant, which under non-permissive conditions rapidly shuts down protein synthesis and generates uncharged tRNA. Both CHO and tsH1 are transformed, however, and do not respond to environmental stimuli with the coordinated regulation of macromolecular processes observed in normal diploid fibroblasts. We describe here the isolation and characterization of growth control revertants obtained from both CHOwt and tsH1. The best of these GRC+L-73, isolated from tsH1, had 20 chromosomes, one less than tsH1, had normal fibroblastic morphology, would not grow in suspension, required high serum concentrations for growth, grew to relatively low cell densities at saturation in monolayer culture and showed a stationary phase characterized by arrest in a G1-like state with maintenance of high viability for several weeks. It is expected that this line as well as a ts revertant GRC+LR-73 will greatly facilitate the genetic investigation of growth control and, in particular, will help to elucidate the role of uncharged tRNA in the regulation of macromolecular synthesis in mammalian cells.", "PMID": 438301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3974", "title": "Growth of human embryonic fibroblasts at clonal density: concordance with results from mass cultures.", "content": "In the past, it has been difficult to grow human diploid fibroblast cells at clonal densities. Newly devised cell culture media and rigorously controlled environmental conditions have greatly increased the ease with which such cells can be cloned. The present work was undertaken to determine whether, under appropriate conditions, diploid fibroblast cells from human embryonic lung, grow as well at clonal densities as in mass culture. The parameters studied were: (1) population doubling time, (2) in vitro proliferative capacity, (3) attachment, (4) percentage of non-dividing cells. In all cases essentially the same results were obtained for cultures at clonal densities and mass cultures. These results indicate that the behavior of these types of cells in clonal culture can be used to infer the behavior of individual cells and clones within a mass culture.", "contents": "Growth of human embryonic fibroblasts at clonal density: concordance with results from mass cultures. In the past, it has been difficult to grow human diploid fibroblast cells at clonal densities. Newly devised cell culture media and rigorously controlled environmental conditions have greatly increased the ease with which such cells can be cloned. The present work was undertaken to determine whether, under appropriate conditions, diploid fibroblast cells from human embryonic lung, grow as well at clonal densities as in mass culture. The parameters studied were: (1) population doubling time, (2) in vitro proliferative capacity, (3) attachment, (4) percentage of non-dividing cells. In all cases essentially the same results were obtained for cultures at clonal densities and mass cultures. These results indicate that the behavior of these types of cells in clonal culture can be used to infer the behavior of individual cells and clones within a mass culture.", "PMID": 438303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3975", "title": "RNA synthesis in growing and stationary cells of a culture of Scarlet Rose. Disproportionate synthesis of ribosomal subunits in the stationary state.", "content": "RNA synthesis has been investigated in resting and growing cells of a culture of Scarlet rose. The rates of messenger RNA (mRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis are five- and ten-fold higher, respectively, in the growing culture. In stationary phase cultures, newly synthesized 26S and 18S rRNA do not appear in the cytoplasm in equimolar amounts. Rather, the 26S/18S ratio of [3H]-uridine labeled rRNA of stationary cells ranged from 0.9 to 1.3 while the ratio of the corresponding fraction from growing cells was 1.6 to 2.0. A similar result was obtained when cells were labeled with [3H-CH3] methionine. Pulse chase experiments demonstrated that the nascent pre-rRNA in resting cells could be chased into polysomes. These data are interpreted to indicate that a major part of the regulation of rRNA synthesis in stationary cells is at the level of the processing of the rRNA transcript.", "contents": "RNA synthesis in growing and stationary cells of a culture of Scarlet Rose. Disproportionate synthesis of ribosomal subunits in the stationary state. RNA synthesis has been investigated in resting and growing cells of a culture of Scarlet rose. The rates of messenger RNA (mRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis are five- and ten-fold higher, respectively, in the growing culture. In stationary phase cultures, newly synthesized 26S and 18S rRNA do not appear in the cytoplasm in equimolar amounts. Rather, the 26S/18S ratio of [3H]-uridine labeled rRNA of stationary cells ranged from 0.9 to 1.3 while the ratio of the corresponding fraction from growing cells was 1.6 to 2.0. A similar result was obtained when cells were labeled with [3H-CH3] methionine. Pulse chase experiments demonstrated that the nascent pre-rRNA in resting cells could be chased into polysomes. These data are interpreted to indicate that a major part of the regulation of rRNA synthesis in stationary cells is at the level of the processing of the rRNA transcript.", "PMID": 438304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3976", "title": "Induction of human choriogonadotropin and follitropin in HeLa cell cultures by hyperosmolality.", "content": "The growth of cervical carcinoma cell (HeLa) cultures in a hyperosmolar environment stimulates increased production of the onco-developmental peptides human choriogonadotropin (hCG) and follitropin (FSH). This effect was observed in two sublines examined in this study, HeLa65 and HeLa71. hCG and FSH were measured by radioimmunoassay using antiserum against the beta-subunit of the hormone dimer, thus insuring immunochemical specificity, The amounts of hCG and FSH produced by HeLa65 and HeLa71 cells cultured in hyperosmolar medium were 2- to 50-fold higher than corresponding hormone levels in basal cultures. Synthesis of gonadotropins depended on concentration and duration of exposure to hyperosmolar medium. Levels of culture medium osmolality effective in inducing hormone production also inhibit the incorporation of 14C-thymidine into acid-insoluble macromolecules. Hyperosmolality thus stimulates the ectopic production of gonadotropic hormones while retarding cellular growth and nucleic acid synthesis.", "contents": "Induction of human choriogonadotropin and follitropin in HeLa cell cultures by hyperosmolality. The growth of cervical carcinoma cell (HeLa) cultures in a hyperosmolar environment stimulates increased production of the onco-developmental peptides human choriogonadotropin (hCG) and follitropin (FSH). This effect was observed in two sublines examined in this study, HeLa65 and HeLa71. hCG and FSH were measured by radioimmunoassay using antiserum against the beta-subunit of the hormone dimer, thus insuring immunochemical specificity, The amounts of hCG and FSH produced by HeLa65 and HeLa71 cells cultured in hyperosmolar medium were 2- to 50-fold higher than corresponding hormone levels in basal cultures. Synthesis of gonadotropins depended on concentration and duration of exposure to hyperosmolar medium. Levels of culture medium osmolality effective in inducing hormone production also inhibit the incorporation of 14C-thymidine into acid-insoluble macromolecules. Hyperosmolality thus stimulates the ectopic production of gonadotropic hormones while retarding cellular growth and nucleic acid synthesis.", "PMID": 438305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3977", "title": "Separation of cytoplasts and whole cells using density gradients of renografin.", "content": "Cytoplasts prepared from L929 or Hepa-2 cells were separated from whole cells using density gradients of renografin. Using this technique, cytoplasts can be isolated from cell lines which cannot be routinely enucleated with an efficiency of 100%. The purified cytoplasts excluded the vital dye trypan blue and were utilized in nuclear transplantation experiments to reconstruct whole viable cells capable of division. In addition, the renografin gradient technique was used to separate the newly reconstructed cells from any contaminating \"non-renucleated\" cytoplasts. This will permit immediate biochemical characterization of cytoplasmic-nuclear hybrid cells without interference from contaminating cytoplasts.", "contents": "Separation of cytoplasts and whole cells using density gradients of renografin. Cytoplasts prepared from L929 or Hepa-2 cells were separated from whole cells using density gradients of renografin. Using this technique, cytoplasts can be isolated from cell lines which cannot be routinely enucleated with an efficiency of 100%. The purified cytoplasts excluded the vital dye trypan blue and were utilized in nuclear transplantation experiments to reconstruct whole viable cells capable of division. In addition, the renografin gradient technique was used to separate the newly reconstructed cells from any contaminating \"non-renucleated\" cytoplasts. This will permit immediate biochemical characterization of cytoplasmic-nuclear hybrid cells without interference from contaminating cytoplasts.", "PMID": 438307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3978", "title": "[The functional result of surgery of hiatus hernia (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors study 50 case records of hiatus hernia operated according to the modified technic of Nissen or Toupet. There was no anatomical relapse, but they observed in five cases an imperfect functional result. In three cases, this imperfect result with dysphagia and esophageal dilatation, is transient and is due to restoration of the sphincter. In two other cases, the dysphagia persisted for years after the operation. The latter cases were in young subjects with digestive dystonia. From these cases, the authors distinguish hernias due to ageing and those due to deterioration of the meso-esophagus, easily curable surgically, and hernias in young subjects due to a neuro-hormonal disturbance where surgical reconstruction of the sphincter does not produce the expected functional cure.", "contents": "[The functional result of surgery of hiatus hernia (author's transl)]. The authors study 50 case records of hiatus hernia operated according to the modified technic of Nissen or Toupet. There was no anatomical relapse, but they observed in five cases an imperfect functional result. In three cases, this imperfect result with dysphagia and esophageal dilatation, is transient and is due to restoration of the sphincter. In two other cases, the dysphagia persisted for years after the operation. The latter cases were in young subjects with digestive dystonia. From these cases, the authors distinguish hernias due to ageing and those due to deterioration of the meso-esophagus, easily curable surgically, and hernias in young subjects due to a neuro-hormonal disturbance where surgical reconstruction of the sphincter does not produce the expected functional cure.", "PMID": 438308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3979", "title": "[Membrane oxygenator in cardiac surgery. Its interest in extra-corporal circulation (E.C.C.) lasting more than three hours (author's transl)].", "content": "Retrospective analysis of 20 cases of heart surgery under extracorporeal circulation lasting more than three hours was performed to assess the foreseeable character or not of the long duration of the E.C.C., furthermore the risk and interest of prolongation of the E.C.C. when the latter is performed with a membrane oxygenator. It is difficult to foresee before the operation the onset of problems of operative technic which lengthen the duration of the operation, and the necessity to continue the perfusion owing to the impossibility of stopping the E.C.C. The minimal risk of prolonging the E.C.C. when the latter is equipped with a membrane oxygenator and when the operative difficulties are solved satisfactorily leads one to consider E.C.C. an essential factor in intensive care.", "contents": "[Membrane oxygenator in cardiac surgery. Its interest in extra-corporal circulation (E.C.C.) lasting more than three hours (author's transl)]. Retrospective analysis of 20 cases of heart surgery under extracorporeal circulation lasting more than three hours was performed to assess the foreseeable character or not of the long duration of the E.C.C., furthermore the risk and interest of prolongation of the E.C.C. when the latter is performed with a membrane oxygenator. It is difficult to foresee before the operation the onset of problems of operative technic which lengthen the duration of the operation, and the necessity to continue the perfusion owing to the impossibility of stopping the E.C.C. The minimal risk of prolonging the E.C.C. when the latter is equipped with a membrane oxygenator and when the operative difficulties are solved satisfactorily leads one to consider E.C.C. an essential factor in intensive care.", "PMID": 438309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3980", "title": "[Post-operative subphrenic abscess. Information supplied by analysis of 62 recent unpublished cases (author's transl)].", "content": "We have collected 62 cases of post-operative subphrenic abscess. Two thirds of these patients were sent to us by another unit for post-operative complications. Subphrenic asbcess is still very dangerous as the mortality is still 38%. They occurred after a gastro-duodenal operation (26 times), spleno-pancreatic operation (21 times), intestinal operation (15 times), hepato-bilary operation (11 times) appendicectomy (twice). They were situated usually on the right, but 11 patients had a double subphrenic abscess and 14 an associated submesocolic abscess. Gram negative bacteria were usually the cause. These abscesses often started early. They occurred in 80% of cases in patients operated under the antibiotic cover. Chest X-ray was the best method of detection, but experience is necessary to read them. The abscesses were drained by the abdominal route in order to verify th whole peritoneal cavity. 22 patients died. 11 from septicemia. 21 out of 22 had a digestive fistula. Among the factors in prognosis, the most obvious were age, type of operation, the notion of reoperation, multiple abscess, and finally the delay in starting treatment.", "contents": "[Post-operative subphrenic abscess. Information supplied by analysis of 62 recent unpublished cases (author's transl)]. We have collected 62 cases of post-operative subphrenic abscess. Two thirds of these patients were sent to us by another unit for post-operative complications. Subphrenic asbcess is still very dangerous as the mortality is still 38%. They occurred after a gastro-duodenal operation (26 times), spleno-pancreatic operation (21 times), intestinal operation (15 times), hepato-bilary operation (11 times) appendicectomy (twice). They were situated usually on the right, but 11 patients had a double subphrenic abscess and 14 an associated submesocolic abscess. Gram negative bacteria were usually the cause. These abscesses often started early. They occurred in 80% of cases in patients operated under the antibiotic cover. Chest X-ray was the best method of detection, but experience is necessary to read them. The abscesses were drained by the abdominal route in order to verify th whole peritoneal cavity. 22 patients died. 11 from septicemia. 21 out of 22 had a digestive fistula. Among the factors in prognosis, the most obvious were age, type of operation, the notion of reoperation, multiple abscess, and finally the delay in starting treatment.", "PMID": 438310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3981", "title": "[Arterial thrombosis caused by electric injury].", "content": "A thrombosis of the axillary artery was discovered in a 36 year old man, four days after electrocution. It was treated successfully by venous bypass. The case was then compared with five similar cases in the literature. The damaged arteries were situated in the area crossed by the electric current. The artery was normal above and below the thrombosis. The thrombosis was accompanied by parietal lesions. The development of the collateral circulation explains the absence of signs of acute ischemia. The pathogenic medico-legal and therapeutic aspects of these thromboses by electrocution are then discussed.", "contents": "[Arterial thrombosis caused by electric injury]. A thrombosis of the axillary artery was discovered in a 36 year old man, four days after electrocution. It was treated successfully by venous bypass. The case was then compared with five similar cases in the literature. The damaged arteries were situated in the area crossed by the electric current. The artery was normal above and below the thrombosis. The thrombosis was accompanied by parietal lesions. The development of the collateral circulation explains the absence of signs of acute ischemia. The pathogenic medico-legal and therapeutic aspects of these thromboses by electrocution are then discussed.", "PMID": 438311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3982", "title": "[Acute primary ischemic enteritis and colitis. Clinico-pathological and physio-pathological findings].", "content": "By opposition to acute post-operative ischaemic enterocolitis, the authors isolate, with the aid of seven cases, the intestinal lesions which spontaneously occur on the small intestines and on the colon and due to an ischaemic mechanism without thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels. After the description of clinical and anatomical features, they point out the main part of the vascular factor in the genesis of the lesions.", "contents": "[Acute primary ischemic enteritis and colitis. Clinico-pathological and physio-pathological findings]. By opposition to acute post-operative ischaemic enterocolitis, the authors isolate, with the aid of seven cases, the intestinal lesions which spontaneously occur on the small intestines and on the colon and due to an ischaemic mechanism without thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels. After the description of clinical and anatomical features, they point out the main part of the vascular factor in the genesis of the lesions.", "PMID": 438312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3983", "title": "[A new aspect of physiology of the bile ducts (author's transl)].", "content": "After evaluation of the force necessary for filling of the gall bladder, it seemed to us difficult to admit that the sphincter of Oddi was the only mechanism necessary for filling, which occurs perfectly without this sphincter. This is why our attention was drawn to the possible role of cystic duct circular muscle which has an important neuro-muscular supply and a known peristaltic activity. Studying the anatomical structure of the region, we examined the various routes which may be followed by the bile during filling and emptying. Filling follows a very particular course, like a cork screw, between the wall of the cystic duct and the lower surface of Heisster's value in which the neuro-muscular mechanism is sufficient to ensure peristaltic movements which may pump the bile across Lutken's sphincter into the gall bladder.", "contents": "[A new aspect of physiology of the bile ducts (author's transl)]. After evaluation of the force necessary for filling of the gall bladder, it seemed to us difficult to admit that the sphincter of Oddi was the only mechanism necessary for filling, which occurs perfectly without this sphincter. This is why our attention was drawn to the possible role of cystic duct circular muscle which has an important neuro-muscular supply and a known peristaltic activity. Studying the anatomical structure of the region, we examined the various routes which may be followed by the bile during filling and emptying. Filling follows a very particular course, like a cork screw, between the wall of the cystic duct and the lower surface of Heisster's value in which the neuro-muscular mechanism is sufficient to ensure peristaltic movements which may pump the bile across Lutken's sphincter into the gall bladder.", "PMID": 438313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3984", "title": "[Isotopic angiography. Method of early post-operative control in peripheral vascular surgery. Report of 200 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report their experience of isotopic angiography as means of post-operative control in peripheral vascular surgery in 200 cases. This investigation is very simple and non-traumatic. It gives very satisfactory morphological information and a good idea of the hemodynamics of the acts carried out.", "contents": "[Isotopic angiography. Method of early post-operative control in peripheral vascular surgery. Report of 200 cases (author's transl)]. The authors report their experience of isotopic angiography as means of post-operative control in peripheral vascular surgery in 200 cases. This investigation is very simple and non-traumatic. It gives very satisfactory morphological information and a good idea of the hemodynamics of the acts carried out.", "PMID": 438314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3985", "title": "[Osteoblastoma of the patella (author's transl)].", "content": "Osteoblastoma is a rare bony tumour. Its localisation at the level of the patella seems exceptional. Our case is the third published case. Wide curetage was a failure, and did not permit histological diagnosis. A cure was obtained by patellectomy, after which the diagnosis of the lesion was made without any doubt.", "contents": "[Osteoblastoma of the patella (author's transl)]. Osteoblastoma is a rare bony tumour. Its localisation at the level of the patella seems exceptional. Our case is the third published case. Wide curetage was a failure, and did not permit histological diagnosis. A cure was obtained by patellectomy, after which the diagnosis of the lesion was made without any doubt.", "PMID": 438315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3986", "title": "[The functional cervico-diaphyseal approach. A new route of approach to the hip for surgery of cervico-trochanteric fractures by diaphyseal prosthesis (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report a new route of approach to the hip, specific to cervico-diaphyseal region. Its main application seems to be for the insertion of diaphyseal prostheses in cervico-trochanteric fractures in the eldery. The lack of damage to the capsule, the reconstruction of a solid weight-bearing point on the trochanter, the precise repair of the joint cavity and of muscle continuity make this a simple route of approach with minimal shock, permitting rapid rehabilitation of the patient with immediate weight-bearing.", "contents": "[The functional cervico-diaphyseal approach. A new route of approach to the hip for surgery of cervico-trochanteric fractures by diaphyseal prosthesis (author's transl)]. The authors report a new route of approach to the hip, specific to cervico-diaphyseal region. Its main application seems to be for the insertion of diaphyseal prostheses in cervico-trochanteric fractures in the eldery. The lack of damage to the capsule, the reconstruction of a solid weight-bearing point on the trochanter, the precise repair of the joint cavity and of muscle continuity make this a simple route of approach with minimal shock, permitting rapid rehabilitation of the patient with immediate weight-bearing.", "PMID": 438316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3987", "title": "[Traumatic lesions of the ureter in pelvic surgery. Apropos of 10 cases].", "content": "For ureteral lesions without loss of substance our preferences are, at the level of the lesion, either for end-to-end ureteral suture, or antireflux uretero-vesical reimplantation. For ureteral lesions with loss of substance we prefer the psoas bladder, if the bladder is healthy, large and supple, or inter-ureteral anastomosis if the bladder for some reason (radiotherapy, retracted bladder, small \"blocked pelvis\") is not available. Synthetic ureteral prosthesis may be a rapid and elegant solution in cancer patients with a limited hope of survival. Guided by these principles, we have repaired 10 ureters : 1 by ureterolysis, 2 by end-to-end suture, 3 by inter-ureteral anastomosis, 4 by antireflux uretero-vesico reimplantation. These 10 repairs gave 9 successes. The only failure (end-to-end ureteral suture) was due to our lack of experience, for in a similar case we would now perform an inter-ureteral anastomosis.", "contents": "[Traumatic lesions of the ureter in pelvic surgery. Apropos of 10 cases]. For ureteral lesions without loss of substance our preferences are, at the level of the lesion, either for end-to-end ureteral suture, or antireflux uretero-vesical reimplantation. For ureteral lesions with loss of substance we prefer the psoas bladder, if the bladder is healthy, large and supple, or inter-ureteral anastomosis if the bladder for some reason (radiotherapy, retracted bladder, small \"blocked pelvis\") is not available. Synthetic ureteral prosthesis may be a rapid and elegant solution in cancer patients with a limited hope of survival. Guided by these principles, we have repaired 10 ureters : 1 by ureterolysis, 2 by end-to-end suture, 3 by inter-ureteral anastomosis, 4 by antireflux uretero-vesico reimplantation. These 10 repairs gave 9 successes. The only failure (end-to-end ureteral suture) was due to our lack of experience, for in a similar case we would now perform an inter-ureteral anastomosis.", "PMID": 438317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3988", "title": "[Comparative study of the fate of a pancreatic stump treated by ligature or by pancreatico-jejunal anastomosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors studied in a series of 23 dogs divided up into two groups the fate of the pancreatic stump treated either by pancreatico-jejunostomy with a Y loop, or by a simple ligature. They note that although the mortality is slightly higher in the anastomoses, histological lesions are constant in both series and are fairly similar. This agrees with the findings in man by Goldsmith and justifies ligature of the remaining pancreatic stump after cephalic duodeno-pancreatectomy.", "contents": "[Comparative study of the fate of a pancreatic stump treated by ligature or by pancreatico-jejunal anastomosis (author's transl)]. The authors studied in a series of 23 dogs divided up into two groups the fate of the pancreatic stump treated either by pancreatico-jejunostomy with a Y loop, or by a simple ligature. They note that although the mortality is slightly higher in the anastomoses, histological lesions are constant in both series and are fairly similar. This agrees with the findings in man by Goldsmith and justifies ligature of the remaining pancreatic stump after cephalic duodeno-pancreatectomy.", "PMID": 438318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3989", "title": "The synthesis of glycosaminoglycans by cultures of corneal stromal cells from patients with keratoconus.", "content": "Keratoconus is a disease that results in thinning and ectasia of the central cornea. Cultures of corneal stromal cells from patients with keratoconus were established and the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans compared with the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans by normal human corneal stromal cells in culture. Keratoconus and normal control cell cultures were incubated with sodium [(35)S]sulfate and [(3)H]glucosamine for 4 h. After incubation, the labeled glycosaminoglycans were isolated from the medium fractions and cells. Keratoconus and normal control cultures synthesized similar amounts of sulfated glycosaminoglycans independent of the age of donors and(or) the number of subcultures. In contrast to normal control cultures, most of the newly synthesized glycosaminoglycans produced by keratoconus cells were found in the growth medium and much less were in the cell layer. Treatment with glycosaminoglycan-degrading enzymes followed by paper chromatography showed that keratoconus cells, as normal control cells, produced hyaluronic acid and various sulfated glycosaminoglycans. The production of cell layer-related heparan sulfate was markedly reduced in keratoconus cultures. Because heparan sulfate has been shown to be associated with cell surfaces, the decreased heparan sulfate content could reflect changes at this location.", "contents": "The synthesis of glycosaminoglycans by cultures of corneal stromal cells from patients with keratoconus. Keratoconus is a disease that results in thinning and ectasia of the central cornea. Cultures of corneal stromal cells from patients with keratoconus were established and the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans compared with the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans by normal human corneal stromal cells in culture. Keratoconus and normal control cell cultures were incubated with sodium [(35)S]sulfate and [(3)H]glucosamine for 4 h. After incubation, the labeled glycosaminoglycans were isolated from the medium fractions and cells. Keratoconus and normal control cultures synthesized similar amounts of sulfated glycosaminoglycans independent of the age of donors and(or) the number of subcultures. In contrast to normal control cultures, most of the newly synthesized glycosaminoglycans produced by keratoconus cells were found in the growth medium and much less were in the cell layer. Treatment with glycosaminoglycan-degrading enzymes followed by paper chromatography showed that keratoconus cells, as normal control cells, produced hyaluronic acid and various sulfated glycosaminoglycans. The production of cell layer-related heparan sulfate was markedly reduced in keratoconus cultures. Because heparan sulfate has been shown to be associated with cell surfaces, the decreased heparan sulfate content could reflect changes at this location.", "PMID": 438319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3990", "title": "Erythrocyte membrane proteins in hereditary glucosephosphate isomerase deficiency.", "content": "Erythrocytes (approximately equal to 50% reticulocytes) obtained from a splenectomized patient with a thermolabile variant of glucosephosphate isomerase (GPI) deficiency showed a striking degree of crenation and decreased filterability through 3-micrometer Nuclepore filters (Nuclepore Corp., Pleasanton, Calif.). Membranes prepared by hypotonic lysis of such erythrocytes were found to contain a high molecular weight aggregate which was probably disulphide-bonded. The 10% most dense erythrocyte fraction showed an accentuation of aggregate formation while aggregates could not be detected in the 10% least dense erythrocyte fraction. The aggregate consisted mainly of spectrin (band 1) and a protein with the mobility of 4.2. \"Extractability\" of spectrin from these membranes was also markedly diminished. Incubation of the erythrocytes for 24 h in substrate-free medium caused more pronounced spectrin aggregation than in low or high reticulocyte controls. Incubation of low or high reticulocyte controls for 24 h in medium that contained glucose completely prevented the formation of the high molecular weight aggregate. GPI-deficient erythrocytes incubated with glucose in the medium showed an accentuation of membrane protein aggregate formation; however, this was almost completely reversed by the addition of adenine and inosine to the incubation medium or by the use of fructose, the intermediate just distal to the \"block\" in glycolysis, as the sole substrate. ATP and reduced glutathione levels in the GPI-deficient erythrocytes incubated with glucose were similar to that found in the low and high reticulocyte controls. Our findings suggest that only a proportion of erythrocytes (the older, more dense population of cells) are susceptible to the formation of disulphide-bonded aggregates, and that this is directly related to an impairment of substrate flow through the glycolytic sequence. The exact mechanism of aggregate formation in these erythrocytes remains to be elucidated.", "contents": "Erythrocyte membrane proteins in hereditary glucosephosphate isomerase deficiency. Erythrocytes (approximately equal to 50% reticulocytes) obtained from a splenectomized patient with a thermolabile variant of glucosephosphate isomerase (GPI) deficiency showed a striking degree of crenation and decreased filterability through 3-micrometer Nuclepore filters (Nuclepore Corp., Pleasanton, Calif.). Membranes prepared by hypotonic lysis of such erythrocytes were found to contain a high molecular weight aggregate which was probably disulphide-bonded. The 10% most dense erythrocyte fraction showed an accentuation of aggregate formation while aggregates could not be detected in the 10% least dense erythrocyte fraction. The aggregate consisted mainly of spectrin (band 1) and a protein with the mobility of 4.2. \"Extractability\" of spectrin from these membranes was also markedly diminished. Incubation of the erythrocytes for 24 h in substrate-free medium caused more pronounced spectrin aggregation than in low or high reticulocyte controls. Incubation of low or high reticulocyte controls for 24 h in medium that contained glucose completely prevented the formation of the high molecular weight aggregate. GPI-deficient erythrocytes incubated with glucose in the medium showed an accentuation of membrane protein aggregate formation; however, this was almost completely reversed by the addition of adenine and inosine to the incubation medium or by the use of fructose, the intermediate just distal to the \"block\" in glycolysis, as the sole substrate. ATP and reduced glutathione levels in the GPI-deficient erythrocytes incubated with glucose were similar to that found in the low and high reticulocyte controls. Our findings suggest that only a proportion of erythrocytes (the older, more dense population of cells) are susceptible to the formation of disulphide-bonded aggregates, and that this is directly related to an impairment of substrate flow through the glycolytic sequence. The exact mechanism of aggregate formation in these erythrocytes remains to be elucidated.", "PMID": 438320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3991", "title": "Sympathetic control of lower esophageal sphincter function in the cat. Action of direct cervical and splanchnic nerve stimulation.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of direct stimulation of the sympathetic nerves on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in the anesthetized cat. Neither unilateral nor bilateral cervical sympathectomy, or splanchnicectomy significantly modified basal LES pressure in animals with intact vagi, or animals having undergone bilateral cervical vagotomy. Electrical stimulation of the cut, peripheral, cervical sympathetic trunk increased mean arterial blood pressure, but had no effect on LES pressure or LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation. Stimulation of the central end of the cervical sympathetic trunk had no effect on LES pressure. Stimulation of the central end of the cut splanchnic nerve produced a decrease in LES pressure with a maximal response of 69.1+/-16.0% (mean+/-SEM). This inhibitory response was not modified by either propranolol or bilateral cervical vagotomy. Stimulation of the peripheral end of the cut, greater splanchnic nerve gave an increase in LES pressure with a maximal response of 38.2+/-7.19 mm Hg. Guanethidine, in the presence or absence of the adrenal glands, significantly augmented this excitatory response. This response was also slightly increased by phentolamine alone at 10 V, 1 Hz, but was not altered by propranolol. The excitatory response was completely antagonized by atropine or by trimethaphan camsylate. Stimulation of the peripheral end of the splanchnic nerve inhibited LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation. The results of this study suggest that: (a) the LES in the cat is not affected by either central or peripheral stimulation of the cervical sympathetic trunk; (b) the central portion of the splanchnic nerve carries an afferent inhibitory response to the LES through yet unknown pathways; (c) the peripheral splanchnic nerve carries an atropine-sensitive excitatory response to the LES; and (d) the splanchnic nerves may modulate LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation.", "contents": "Sympathetic control of lower esophageal sphincter function in the cat. Action of direct cervical and splanchnic nerve stimulation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of direct stimulation of the sympathetic nerves on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in the anesthetized cat. Neither unilateral nor bilateral cervical sympathectomy, or splanchnicectomy significantly modified basal LES pressure in animals with intact vagi, or animals having undergone bilateral cervical vagotomy. Electrical stimulation of the cut, peripheral, cervical sympathetic trunk increased mean arterial blood pressure, but had no effect on LES pressure or LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation. Stimulation of the central end of the cervical sympathetic trunk had no effect on LES pressure. Stimulation of the central end of the cut splanchnic nerve produced a decrease in LES pressure with a maximal response of 69.1+/-16.0% (mean+/-SEM). This inhibitory response was not modified by either propranolol or bilateral cervical vagotomy. Stimulation of the peripheral end of the cut, greater splanchnic nerve gave an increase in LES pressure with a maximal response of 38.2+/-7.19 mm Hg. Guanethidine, in the presence or absence of the adrenal glands, significantly augmented this excitatory response. This response was also slightly increased by phentolamine alone at 10 V, 1 Hz, but was not altered by propranolol. The excitatory response was completely antagonized by atropine or by trimethaphan camsylate. Stimulation of the peripheral end of the splanchnic nerve inhibited LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation. The results of this study suggest that: (a) the LES in the cat is not affected by either central or peripheral stimulation of the cervical sympathetic trunk; (b) the central portion of the splanchnic nerve carries an afferent inhibitory response to the LES through yet unknown pathways; (c) the peripheral splanchnic nerve carries an atropine-sensitive excitatory response to the LES; and (d) the splanchnic nerves may modulate LES relaxation as induced by vagal stimulation.", "PMID": 438321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3992", "title": "Effect of cytochalasin B and D on groups of insulin receptors and on insulin action in rat adipocytes. Possible evidence for a structural relationship of the insulin receptor to the glucose transport system.", "content": "The possible physiological importance of the groups of insulin receptors on rat adipocytes and the relationship of these groups to insulin action were investigated. The effect of cytochalasin B and D on biological actions of insulin was measured and compared with the effect of these agents on the ultrastructural distribution of groups of insulin receptors. Cytochalasin B had no effect on epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis, insulin inhibition of epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis, or insulin stimulation of protein synthesis. Cytochalasin B, over a concentration range of 50 nM to 5 muM, progressively inhibited the basal glucose transport system, as measured by glucose oxidation, 2-deoxyglucose transport, and 3-O-methylglucose transport. Insulin was capable of fully stimulating remaining basal transport at submaximal concentrations of cytochalasin B. Insulin pretreatment of adipocytes partially protected the glucose transport system from inhibition by cytochalasin B. Cytochalasin B markedly altered the distribution pattern of insulin receptors, which caused an increase in the number of single receptor molecules by decreasing the number of larger groups. A significant correlation (r = 0.964; P < 0.001) was found between the percent increase in single receptors and the percent decrease in glucose transport. Ferritin-insulin pretreatment of adipocytes prevented disruption of the groups of insulin receptors by cytochalasin B. Cytochalasin D had no effect on the biological actions of insulin or on the groups of insulin receptors. These data suggest that the ability of insulin to affect adipocyte metabolism is independent of the hormone occupying adjacent, grouped receptor sites. The marked contrast in effects of cytochalasin B and D on groups of insulin receptors and glucose transport suggests that the microfilament system is not involved in insulin action or in holding the groups of insulin receptors together, as both agents are known disrupters of microfilaments and inhibitors of actin gelation. The correlation between the effects of cytochalasin B on insulin receptor distribution and glucose transport leads to the speculation that the glycoprotein molecules containing the insulin receptor are functionally linked with the glucose transport system.", "contents": "Effect of cytochalasin B and D on groups of insulin receptors and on insulin action in rat adipocytes. Possible evidence for a structural relationship of the insulin receptor to the glucose transport system. The possible physiological importance of the groups of insulin receptors on rat adipocytes and the relationship of these groups to insulin action were investigated. The effect of cytochalasin B and D on biological actions of insulin was measured and compared with the effect of these agents on the ultrastructural distribution of groups of insulin receptors. Cytochalasin B had no effect on epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis, insulin inhibition of epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis, or insulin stimulation of protein synthesis. Cytochalasin B, over a concentration range of 50 nM to 5 muM, progressively inhibited the basal glucose transport system, as measured by glucose oxidation, 2-deoxyglucose transport, and 3-O-methylglucose transport. Insulin was capable of fully stimulating remaining basal transport at submaximal concentrations of cytochalasin B. Insulin pretreatment of adipocytes partially protected the glucose transport system from inhibition by cytochalasin B. Cytochalasin B markedly altered the distribution pattern of insulin receptors, which caused an increase in the number of single receptor molecules by decreasing the number of larger groups. A significant correlation (r = 0.964; P < 0.001) was found between the percent increase in single receptors and the percent decrease in glucose transport. Ferritin-insulin pretreatment of adipocytes prevented disruption of the groups of insulin receptors by cytochalasin B. Cytochalasin D had no effect on the biological actions of insulin or on the groups of insulin receptors. These data suggest that the ability of insulin to affect adipocyte metabolism is independent of the hormone occupying adjacent, grouped receptor sites. The marked contrast in effects of cytochalasin B and D on groups of insulin receptors and glucose transport suggests that the microfilament system is not involved in insulin action or in holding the groups of insulin receptors together, as both agents are known disrupters of microfilaments and inhibitors of actin gelation. The correlation between the effects of cytochalasin B on insulin receptor distribution and glucose transport leads to the speculation that the glycoprotein molecules containing the insulin receptor are functionally linked with the glucose transport system.", "PMID": 438322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3993", "title": "Excretion-reuptake route of beta-hexosaminidase in normal and I-cell disease cultured fibroblasts.", "content": "It has been proposed that in cultured fibroblasts the final packaging of enzymes in lysosomes requires excretion followed by pinocytosis by neighboring cells via a carbohydrate-specific receptor mechanism. It has also been proposed that the abnormally high activity of lysosomal enzymes in the medium of cultured fibroblasts from patients with I-cell disease (mucolipidosis II) results from an altered carbohydrate recognition residue on the enzymes which prevents reuptake into the cells. With beta-hexosaminidase as a marker, and competitive inhibition of uptake by 2 mM mannose-6-phosphate, we have determined that only 12% of the total (intra- and extracellular) beta-hexosaminidase in normal fibroblasts is channeled through the excretion-reuptake route. After 9 d of exposure to mannose-6-phosphate, normal fibroblast cultures accumulated in the medium only a fraction of the enzyme excreted by I-cell disease fibroblasts in the same period. Furthermore, this minimal loss of enzyme to the medium did not result in a decrease of intracellular enzyme activity. Finally, if the defect in I-cell disease were only because of an impairment of a reuptake mechanism that involves only 12% of the total enzyme, then 88% of the newly synthesized enzyme should be retained by I-cell fibroblasts, resulting in intracellular activity three to nine times higher than that which is observed. These data are consistent with our previous proposal that excessive lysosomal enzyme activity in the medium of I-cell disease fibroblasts results from preferential exocytosis.", "contents": "Excretion-reuptake route of beta-hexosaminidase in normal and I-cell disease cultured fibroblasts. It has been proposed that in cultured fibroblasts the final packaging of enzymes in lysosomes requires excretion followed by pinocytosis by neighboring cells via a carbohydrate-specific receptor mechanism. It has also been proposed that the abnormally high activity of lysosomal enzymes in the medium of cultured fibroblasts from patients with I-cell disease (mucolipidosis II) results from an altered carbohydrate recognition residue on the enzymes which prevents reuptake into the cells. With beta-hexosaminidase as a marker, and competitive inhibition of uptake by 2 mM mannose-6-phosphate, we have determined that only 12% of the total (intra- and extracellular) beta-hexosaminidase in normal fibroblasts is channeled through the excretion-reuptake route. After 9 d of exposure to mannose-6-phosphate, normal fibroblast cultures accumulated in the medium only a fraction of the enzyme excreted by I-cell disease fibroblasts in the same period. Furthermore, this minimal loss of enzyme to the medium did not result in a decrease of intracellular enzyme activity. Finally, if the defect in I-cell disease were only because of an impairment of a reuptake mechanism that involves only 12% of the total enzyme, then 88% of the newly synthesized enzyme should be retained by I-cell fibroblasts, resulting in intracellular activity three to nine times higher than that which is observed. These data are consistent with our previous proposal that excessive lysosomal enzyme activity in the medium of I-cell disease fibroblasts results from preferential exocytosis.", "PMID": 438323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3994", "title": "Pre- and postoperative studies of plasma calcitonin in primary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "The importance of calcitonin in the homeostatic response to the chronic hypercalcemia of primary hyperparathyroidism is uncertain. To clarify this issue, we have used a new, sensitive radioimmunoassay for human calcitonin to measure basal plasma calcitonin concentrations in 50 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (32 female, 18 male). We assayed calcium-stimulated calcitonin concentrations preoperatively in 22 of the patients (16 female, 6 male) and postoperatively in 6. Finally, we assayed pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin concentrations preoperatively in eight of the patients (three female, five male). Plasma calcitonin values after an overnight fast were indistinguishable from those in normal subjects (mean+/-SE, males, 48+/-3 normal and 46+/-5 pg/ml hyperparathyroid, females, 31+/-2 normal and 37+/-3 pg/ml hyperparathyroid.) Among hyperparathyroid patients of both sexes, increases of calcitonin during Ca infusion (15 mg Ca/kg in 4 h) were within normal limits. However, the mean maximal increase of calcitonin was significantly lower in hyperparathyroid than in normal subjects (P < 0.05). In six patients normocalcemic 5-15 mo after parathyroid surgery, fasting plasma calcitonin values were not significantly different, but responses to Ca infusion were greater than preoperatively (Delta calcitonin +/-SE: 13+/-4 preoperatively and 53+/-35 pg/ml postoperatively). The mean maximal increase of calcitonin after pentagastrin (0.5 mug/kg i.v.) was slightly lower than normal in the patients (mean+/-SE, males, 45+/-8 normal and 38+/-10 pg/ml hyperparathyroid, females, 6+/-2 normal and 0 pg/ml hyperparathyroid). Thus, primary hyperparathyroidism is accompanied by normal steady-state concentrations of circulating calcitonin, and normal-to-blunted C-cell responses to pentagastrin or induced hypercalcemia, the response to calcium generally increasing after successful parathyroid surgery. These results clearly show that primary hyperparathyroidism is not characterized by hypercalcitoninemia. The seemingly paradoxical absence of elevated steady-state calcitonin concentrations may be accounted for partly by decreased secretory reserve. However, primary hyperparathyroidism may also be accompanied by an increase in the threshold of sensitivity for calcium stimulation of calcitonin secretion.", "contents": "Pre- and postoperative studies of plasma calcitonin in primary hyperparathyroidism. The importance of calcitonin in the homeostatic response to the chronic hypercalcemia of primary hyperparathyroidism is uncertain. To clarify this issue, we have used a new, sensitive radioimmunoassay for human calcitonin to measure basal plasma calcitonin concentrations in 50 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (32 female, 18 male). We assayed calcium-stimulated calcitonin concentrations preoperatively in 22 of the patients (16 female, 6 male) and postoperatively in 6. Finally, we assayed pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin concentrations preoperatively in eight of the patients (three female, five male). Plasma calcitonin values after an overnight fast were indistinguishable from those in normal subjects (mean+/-SE, males, 48+/-3 normal and 46+/-5 pg/ml hyperparathyroid, females, 31+/-2 normal and 37+/-3 pg/ml hyperparathyroid.) Among hyperparathyroid patients of both sexes, increases of calcitonin during Ca infusion (15 mg Ca/kg in 4 h) were within normal limits. However, the mean maximal increase of calcitonin was significantly lower in hyperparathyroid than in normal subjects (P < 0.05). In six patients normocalcemic 5-15 mo after parathyroid surgery, fasting plasma calcitonin values were not significantly different, but responses to Ca infusion were greater than preoperatively (Delta calcitonin +/-SE: 13+/-4 preoperatively and 53+/-35 pg/ml postoperatively). The mean maximal increase of calcitonin after pentagastrin (0.5 mug/kg i.v.) was slightly lower than normal in the patients (mean+/-SE, males, 45+/-8 normal and 38+/-10 pg/ml hyperparathyroid, females, 6+/-2 normal and 0 pg/ml hyperparathyroid). Thus, primary hyperparathyroidism is accompanied by normal steady-state concentrations of circulating calcitonin, and normal-to-blunted C-cell responses to pentagastrin or induced hypercalcemia, the response to calcium generally increasing after successful parathyroid surgery. These results clearly show that primary hyperparathyroidism is not characterized by hypercalcitoninemia. The seemingly paradoxical absence of elevated steady-state calcitonin concentrations may be accounted for partly by decreased secretory reserve. However, primary hyperparathyroidism may also be accompanied by an increase in the threshold of sensitivity for calcium stimulation of calcitonin secretion.", "PMID": 438324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3995", "title": "Polymorphonuclear leukocyte and monocyte chemoattractants produced by human fibroblasts.", "content": "The elaboration of leukocyte chemotactic factors by human fibroblasts was studied. 12 lines of normal fibroblasts obtained by skin biopsy and then cultured in vitro produced chemoattractants (assessed by modified Boyden-chamber techniques) for both peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes and monocytes (obtained by Hypaque-Ficoll and dextran sedimentation). Chemotactic activity was not present performed in fibroblasts, and cycloheximide blocked its elaboration. The chemotactic activity of crude-culture supernate was heat stable (56 degrees C for 30 min), trypsin- and pronase-sensitive, and neuraminidase resistant. Characterization of the chemotactic activity by gel filtration (Sephadex G-75) showed two active fractions, one with mol wt greater than 100,000 and the other less than 10,000. In studies designed to relate these chemotactic factors to collagen, we have confirmed that type I collagen and alpha 1-chain; are chemotactically active for monocytes but not polymorphonuclear leukocytes. However, the chemotactic activity in fibroblast-culture media was media was distinct from collagen in that it attracted neutrophils, it was not precipitated by 25% ammonium sulfate, and it was resistant to collagenase treatment; ascorbic acid, in concentrations known to stimulate fibroblast collagen synthesis, had no effect on the elaboration of the chemotactic factors. Furthermore, amino acid analysis of Sephadex G-75 fractions with chemotactic activity failed to reveal amino acids such as hydroxyproline characteristic of collagen. In addition to the chemotactic factors secreted by fibroblasts, a heat-resistant factor (30 min at 56 degrees C) which generated the chemotactically active fragment of C5 (C5a) from human serum was also secreted. The elaboration of mediators of the inflammatory and immune responses by fibroblasts may initiate and(or) modulate local skin inflammatory reactions and play a protective role in vivo.", "contents": "Polymorphonuclear leukocyte and monocyte chemoattractants produced by human fibroblasts. The elaboration of leukocyte chemotactic factors by human fibroblasts was studied. 12 lines of normal fibroblasts obtained by skin biopsy and then cultured in vitro produced chemoattractants (assessed by modified Boyden-chamber techniques) for both peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes and monocytes (obtained by Hypaque-Ficoll and dextran sedimentation). Chemotactic activity was not present performed in fibroblasts, and cycloheximide blocked its elaboration. The chemotactic activity of crude-culture supernate was heat stable (56 degrees C for 30 min), trypsin- and pronase-sensitive, and neuraminidase resistant. Characterization of the chemotactic activity by gel filtration (Sephadex G-75) showed two active fractions, one with mol wt greater than 100,000 and the other less than 10,000. In studies designed to relate these chemotactic factors to collagen, we have confirmed that type I collagen and alpha 1-chain; are chemotactically active for monocytes but not polymorphonuclear leukocytes. However, the chemotactic activity in fibroblast-culture media was media was distinct from collagen in that it attracted neutrophils, it was not precipitated by 25% ammonium sulfate, and it was resistant to collagenase treatment; ascorbic acid, in concentrations known to stimulate fibroblast collagen synthesis, had no effect on the elaboration of the chemotactic factors. Furthermore, amino acid analysis of Sephadex G-75 fractions with chemotactic activity failed to reveal amino acids such as hydroxyproline characteristic of collagen. In addition to the chemotactic factors secreted by fibroblasts, a heat-resistant factor (30 min at 56 degrees C) which generated the chemotactically active fragment of C5 (C5a) from human serum was also secreted. The elaboration of mediators of the inflammatory and immune responses by fibroblasts may initiate and(or) modulate local skin inflammatory reactions and play a protective role in vivo.", "PMID": 438325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3996", "title": "Plasma acetone metabolism in the fasting human.", "content": "The metabolism of acetone was studied in lean and obese humans during starvation ketosis. Acetone concentrations in plasma, urine, and breath; and rates of endogenous production, elimination in breath and urine, and in vivo metabolism were determined. There was a direct relationship between plasma acetone turnover (20-77 mumol/m(2) per min) and concentration (0.19-1.68 mM). Breath and urinary excretion of acetone accounted for a 2-30% of the endogenous production rate, and in vivo metabolism accounted for the remainder. Plasma acetone oxidation accounted for congruent with60% of the production rate in 3-d fasted subjects and about 25% of the production rate in 21-d fasted subjects. About 1-2% of the total CO(2) production was derived from plasma acetone oxidation and was not related to the plasma concentration or production rate. Radioactivity from [(14)C]acetone was not detected in plasma free fatty acids, acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, or other anionic compounds, but was present in plasma glucose, lipids, and proteins. If glucose synthesis from acetone is possible in humans, this process could account for 11% of the glucose production rate and 59% of the acetone production rate in 21-d fasted subjects. During maximum acetonemia, acetone production from acetoacetate could account for 37% of the anticipated acetoacetate production, which implies that a significant fraction of the latter compound does not undergo immediate terminal oxidation.", "contents": "Plasma acetone metabolism in the fasting human. The metabolism of acetone was studied in lean and obese humans during starvation ketosis. Acetone concentrations in plasma, urine, and breath; and rates of endogenous production, elimination in breath and urine, and in vivo metabolism were determined. There was a direct relationship between plasma acetone turnover (20-77 mumol/m(2) per min) and concentration (0.19-1.68 mM). Breath and urinary excretion of acetone accounted for a 2-30% of the endogenous production rate, and in vivo metabolism accounted for the remainder. Plasma acetone oxidation accounted for congruent with60% of the production rate in 3-d fasted subjects and about 25% of the production rate in 21-d fasted subjects. About 1-2% of the total CO(2) production was derived from plasma acetone oxidation and was not related to the plasma concentration or production rate. Radioactivity from [(14)C]acetone was not detected in plasma free fatty acids, acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, or other anionic compounds, but was present in plasma glucose, lipids, and proteins. If glucose synthesis from acetone is possible in humans, this process could account for 11% of the glucose production rate and 59% of the acetone production rate in 21-d fasted subjects. During maximum acetonemia, acetone production from acetoacetate could account for 37% of the anticipated acetoacetate production, which implies that a significant fraction of the latter compound does not undergo immediate terminal oxidation.", "PMID": 438326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3997", "title": "Binding of immunoglobulin G aggregates and immune complexes in human sera to Staphylococci containing protein A.", "content": "Using the Cowan I strain of Staphylococcus aureus, we compared the binding properties of human monomeric immunoglobulin (Ig)G and oligomeric or complexed IgG. Heat-aggregated IgG served as a model for complexed IgG and heat-killed, formalin-fixed S. aureus (StaphA) as a cellular receptor for IgG, in determining the parameters for oligomeric and monomeric binding. Because of its capacity for multipoint attachment, complexed IgG binding was favored over monomeric IgG binding, and this preferential binding was demonstrated kinetically in equivalent forward rates of binding but in a much slower rate of release from StaphA receptors. From binding studies, we determined which conditions maximize complexes IgG binding and minimized monomeric IgG binding and applied them to the development of an assay for aggregated IgG and immune complexes in human sera. The StaphA binding assay that was devised is quantitative, sensitive, and not complement dependent. It is relatively unaffected by factors such as heparin, complement fixation, native antibodies, and immunoglobulin concentrations, but is affected by the presence of rheumatoid factors. It compares favorably with two other complement-dependent assays of immune complexes, the 125I-Clq binding assay and the Raji cell assay, in terms of sensitivity and the size of immune complexes detected. Studies on the potential of the assay for detecting, isolating, and characterizing immune complexes in biological fluids are presented.", "contents": "Binding of immunoglobulin G aggregates and immune complexes in human sera to Staphylococci containing protein A. Using the Cowan I strain of Staphylococcus aureus, we compared the binding properties of human monomeric immunoglobulin (Ig)G and oligomeric or complexed IgG. Heat-aggregated IgG served as a model for complexed IgG and heat-killed, formalin-fixed S. aureus (StaphA) as a cellular receptor for IgG, in determining the parameters for oligomeric and monomeric binding. Because of its capacity for multipoint attachment, complexed IgG binding was favored over monomeric IgG binding, and this preferential binding was demonstrated kinetically in equivalent forward rates of binding but in a much slower rate of release from StaphA receptors. From binding studies, we determined which conditions maximize complexes IgG binding and minimized monomeric IgG binding and applied them to the development of an assay for aggregated IgG and immune complexes in human sera. The StaphA binding assay that was devised is quantitative, sensitive, and not complement dependent. It is relatively unaffected by factors such as heparin, complement fixation, native antibodies, and immunoglobulin concentrations, but is affected by the presence of rheumatoid factors. It compares favorably with two other complement-dependent assays of immune complexes, the 125I-Clq binding assay and the Raji cell assay, in terms of sensitivity and the size of immune complexes detected. Studies on the potential of the assay for detecting, isolating, and characterizing immune complexes in biological fluids are presented.", "PMID": 438327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3998", "title": "Morphologic-physiologic correlates of the severity of fibrosis and degree of cellularity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.", "content": "Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease of lung parenchyma characterized by a chronic inflammatory cellular infiltration and varying degrees of interstitial fibrosis. Current data indicate that the severity of fibrosis and the degree of cellularity determine, in part, the prognosis of IPF and the response to therapy. Whereas lung biopsy gives the best assessement of fibrosis and cellularity, physiologic studies are used to stage and monitor the disease process. To determine which physiologic studies correlate best with severity of fibrosis and degree of cellularity, these parameters were graded in lung biopsies of 23 patients with IPF and compared with a variety of physiologic studies. Although vital capacity, total lung capacity, and diffusing capacity are commonly used as objective monitors of the disease process, none of these parameters correlated with either the severity of fibrosis or the degree of cellularity in biopsy specimens. In contrast, almost all parameters of lung distensibility correlated with the morphologic assessment of degree of fibrosis; compliance had the best correlation. Parameters of distensibility, however, correlated poorly with the degree of cellularity. In comparison, gas exchange during exercise correlated with both morphologic parameters; the exercise-induced changes in arterial oxygen pressure per liter of oxygen consumed had a high correlation with the degree of fibrosis (r = 0.89; P less than 0.001) and correlated to a lesser extent with the degree of cellularity (r = 0.56; P = 0.009). In contrast, neither the resting arterial oxygen tension nor the arterial oxygen tension at maximal exercise correlated with the morphologic assessment of degree of fibrosis or the degree of cellularity. These morphologic-physiologic comparisons suggest that (a) lung volumes and diffusing capacity are poor monitors of both the degree of fibrosis and the degree of cellularity; (b) the fibrotic process contributes, at least in part, to parameters of lung distensibility, and both fibrosis and cellularity contribute to gas exchange alterations during exercise; and (c) parameters of lung distensibility and exercise-induced gas exchange alterations may be useful in staging the severity of disease in IPF.", "contents": "Morphologic-physiologic correlates of the severity of fibrosis and degree of cellularity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease of lung parenchyma characterized by a chronic inflammatory cellular infiltration and varying degrees of interstitial fibrosis. Current data indicate that the severity of fibrosis and the degree of cellularity determine, in part, the prognosis of IPF and the response to therapy. Whereas lung biopsy gives the best assessement of fibrosis and cellularity, physiologic studies are used to stage and monitor the disease process. To determine which physiologic studies correlate best with severity of fibrosis and degree of cellularity, these parameters were graded in lung biopsies of 23 patients with IPF and compared with a variety of physiologic studies. Although vital capacity, total lung capacity, and diffusing capacity are commonly used as objective monitors of the disease process, none of these parameters correlated with either the severity of fibrosis or the degree of cellularity in biopsy specimens. In contrast, almost all parameters of lung distensibility correlated with the morphologic assessment of degree of fibrosis; compliance had the best correlation. Parameters of distensibility, however, correlated poorly with the degree of cellularity. In comparison, gas exchange during exercise correlated with both morphologic parameters; the exercise-induced changes in arterial oxygen pressure per liter of oxygen consumed had a high correlation with the degree of fibrosis (r = 0.89; P less than 0.001) and correlated to a lesser extent with the degree of cellularity (r = 0.56; P = 0.009). In contrast, neither the resting arterial oxygen tension nor the arterial oxygen tension at maximal exercise correlated with the morphologic assessment of degree of fibrosis or the degree of cellularity. These morphologic-physiologic comparisons suggest that (a) lung volumes and diffusing capacity are poor monitors of both the degree of fibrosis and the degree of cellularity; (b) the fibrotic process contributes, at least in part, to parameters of lung distensibility, and both fibrosis and cellularity contribute to gas exchange alterations during exercise; and (c) parameters of lung distensibility and exercise-induced gas exchange alterations may be useful in staging the severity of disease in IPF.", "PMID": 438328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_3999", "title": "Thymosin-induced suppression of proliferative response of human lymphocytes to mitogens.", "content": "The proliferative response of human peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen were suppressed by thymosin. Greatest decreases were observed when cells were preincubated with thymosin for 18 h before a 3-d culture with mitogen in the presence of thymosin. However, significant suppression also occurred when lymphocytes were preincubated for 2 h and cultured with thymosin or preincubated for either 2 or 18 h and washed free of thymosin before culture. These effects were related to the concentration of thymosin and time of exposure to thymosin but not merely to a delay in the response to mitogen or to toxicity. The suppression of mitogen-induced proliferation by thymosin appeared to result from effects of thymosin on a suppressor cell because lymphocytes incubated with thymosin did not acquire increased responsiveness to mitogens as did cells incubated for 18 h in its absence and because mixing thymosin-pretreated lymphocytes with cells not preincubated with thymosin resulted in decreased responsiveness to photohemagglutinin.", "contents": "Thymosin-induced suppression of proliferative response of human lymphocytes to mitogens. The proliferative response of human peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen were suppressed by thymosin. Greatest decreases were observed when cells were preincubated with thymosin for 18 h before a 3-d culture with mitogen in the presence of thymosin. However, significant suppression also occurred when lymphocytes were preincubated for 2 h and cultured with thymosin or preincubated for either 2 or 18 h and washed free of thymosin before culture. These effects were related to the concentration of thymosin and time of exposure to thymosin but not merely to a delay in the response to mitogen or to toxicity. The suppression of mitogen-induced proliferation by thymosin appeared to result from effects of thymosin on a suppressor cell because lymphocytes incubated with thymosin did not acquire increased responsiveness to mitogens as did cells incubated for 18 h in its absence and because mixing thymosin-pretreated lymphocytes with cells not preincubated with thymosin resulted in decreased responsiveness to photohemagglutinin.", "PMID": 438329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4000", "title": "Regulation of hepatic transport of bile salt. Effect of protein synthesis inhibition on excretion of bile salts and their binding to liver surface membrane fractions.", "content": "The overall transport of bile salts across the hepatocyte is characterized as a carrier-mediated process whose rate-limiting step is biliary secretion. Specific bile salt binding proteins have been identified in liver surface membrane fractions and were postulated to represent the initial interaction in bile salt translocation across both the sinusoidal and canalicular membranes. To test this hypothesis, cycloheximide was administered to rats to inhibit hepatic protein synthesis. 16 h after cycloheximide administration [14C]leucine incorporation into hepatic protein was inhibited by 93% at 1 h and 47% at 12 h. However, values of liver function tests were not increased, although serum albumin, serum alanine amino-transferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly decreased. Light and electron microscopy did not demonstrate necrosis or fat accumulation. The latter demonstrated minimal disorganization of rough endoplasmic reticulum and occasional lamellar whorls. 16 h after cycloheximide administration bile salt independent bile flow, basal bile salt excretion, and basal bile flow were unaltered, but the maximum bile salt transport capacity was reduced to 62% of control and 24 h later to 38%. Decreased bile salt transport was reversible, for it returned to control values after 48 h, when hepatic protein synthesis was also normal. Maximum bromosulfophthalein (BSP) transport, on the other hand, was reduced after 16 h to only 85% of control. Both bile salt and BPS maximum transport capacities decreased with time during inhibition of protein synthesis, apparently following first order kinetics. It was estimated that their half-lives are 20 h for bile salt transport and 55 h for BSP transport. These different turnover rates suggest that cycloheximide does not decrease active transport through generalized hepatic dysfunction or alteration of high energy sources possibly required for transport. The maximum number of [14C]cholic acid binding sites in liver surface membrane fractions was determined by an ultrafiltration assay. They were reduced to 68% of control after 16 h of cycloheximide and to 25% after 24 h. This reduction in the number of binding sites is apparently selective, for the activities of the liver surface membrane enzymes (Na+-K+)ATPase, Mg++-ATPase, and 5'-nucleotidase were not significantly changed. The associated alterations in bile salt transport and the maximum number of binding sites after cycloheximide administration suggests that these receptors may be the bile salt carriers.", "contents": "Regulation of hepatic transport of bile salt. Effect of protein synthesis inhibition on excretion of bile salts and their binding to liver surface membrane fractions. The overall transport of bile salts across the hepatocyte is characterized as a carrier-mediated process whose rate-limiting step is biliary secretion. Specific bile salt binding proteins have been identified in liver surface membrane fractions and were postulated to represent the initial interaction in bile salt translocation across both the sinusoidal and canalicular membranes. To test this hypothesis, cycloheximide was administered to rats to inhibit hepatic protein synthesis. 16 h after cycloheximide administration [14C]leucine incorporation into hepatic protein was inhibited by 93% at 1 h and 47% at 12 h. However, values of liver function tests were not increased, although serum albumin, serum alanine amino-transferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly decreased. Light and electron microscopy did not demonstrate necrosis or fat accumulation. The latter demonstrated minimal disorganization of rough endoplasmic reticulum and occasional lamellar whorls. 16 h after cycloheximide administration bile salt independent bile flow, basal bile salt excretion, and basal bile flow were unaltered, but the maximum bile salt transport capacity was reduced to 62% of control and 24 h later to 38%. Decreased bile salt transport was reversible, for it returned to control values after 48 h, when hepatic protein synthesis was also normal. Maximum bromosulfophthalein (BSP) transport, on the other hand, was reduced after 16 h to only 85% of control. Both bile salt and BPS maximum transport capacities decreased with time during inhibition of protein synthesis, apparently following first order kinetics. It was estimated that their half-lives are 20 h for bile salt transport and 55 h for BSP transport. These different turnover rates suggest that cycloheximide does not decrease active transport through generalized hepatic dysfunction or alteration of high energy sources possibly required for transport. The maximum number of [14C]cholic acid binding sites in liver surface membrane fractions was determined by an ultrafiltration assay. They were reduced to 68% of control after 16 h of cycloheximide and to 25% after 24 h. This reduction in the number of binding sites is apparently selective, for the activities of the liver surface membrane enzymes (Na+-K+)ATPase, Mg++-ATPase, and 5'-nucleotidase were not significantly changed. The associated alterations in bile salt transport and the maximum number of binding sites after cycloheximide administration suggests that these receptors may be the bile salt carriers.", "PMID": 438330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4001", "title": "Glomerular permeability of macromolecules. Effect of molecular configuration on the fractional clearance of uncharged dextran and neutral horseradish peroxidase in the rat.", "content": "Molecular parameters other than size and charge are likely to influence the filtration of macromolecules across the glomerular filter. We have studies, therefore, the glomerular permeability of macromolecules with widely different molecular configuration such as horseradish peroxidase, a plant glycoprotein with an isoelectric point in the physiologic pH range, and dextran, an uncharged sugar polymer of D-glucopyranose. Simultaneous fractional clearances were determined for both test macromolecules in five Wistar-Furth rats. The results indicate that for a molecular radius of 28.45 A, as measured by gel filtration, the sugar polymer has a fractional clearance of 0.483 on the average, exceeding that of the protein tracer, with a value of 0.068, by a factor less than 7. We conclude that other molecular parameters such as shape, flexibility, and deformability play important roles in the transport of macromolecules across the extracellular matrix that constitutes the glomerular filter.", "contents": "Glomerular permeability of macromolecules. Effect of molecular configuration on the fractional clearance of uncharged dextran and neutral horseradish peroxidase in the rat. Molecular parameters other than size and charge are likely to influence the filtration of macromolecules across the glomerular filter. We have studies, therefore, the glomerular permeability of macromolecules with widely different molecular configuration such as horseradish peroxidase, a plant glycoprotein with an isoelectric point in the physiologic pH range, and dextran, an uncharged sugar polymer of D-glucopyranose. Simultaneous fractional clearances were determined for both test macromolecules in five Wistar-Furth rats. The results indicate that for a molecular radius of 28.45 A, as measured by gel filtration, the sugar polymer has a fractional clearance of 0.483 on the average, exceeding that of the protein tracer, with a value of 0.068, by a factor less than 7. We conclude that other molecular parameters such as shape, flexibility, and deformability play important roles in the transport of macromolecules across the extracellular matrix that constitutes the glomerular filter.", "PMID": 438331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4002", "title": "Activity of [des-aspartyl1]-angiotensin II in primary aldosteronism.", "content": "This study describes the effects of [des-Aspartyl(1)]-angiotensin II ([des-Asp]-AII) on blood pressure and aldosterone production in patients with primary aldosteronism due to aldosterone-producing adrenal adenoma (APA) and idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia (IHA), and in normotensive control subjects. 10 patients with primary aldosteronism, 7 with APA and 3 with IHA, and 6 normotensive control subjects were placed on a constant 150-meq sodium diet for 4 days. [des-Asp]-AII was infused for 30 min at 6, 12, and 18 pmol/kg per min. Three groups of patients were identified on the basis of aldosterone response to [des-Asp]-AII. Group I, composed of normotensive control subjects, showed incremental increases in plasma aldosterone concentration from 6+/-1 to 14+/-3 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) with [des-Asp]-AII infusion. Group II, composed of patients with primary aldosteronism, showed incremental increases in plasma aldosterone concentration from 33+/-8 to 65+/-13 ng/100 ml (P < 0.05) with 12 pmol/kg per min of [des-Asp]-AII. Group III, also composed of patients with primary aldosteronism, showed no increase of plasma aldosterone concentration with [des-Asp]-AII. Groups I and II showed similar percentage increases in plasma aldosterone concentration (P = NS). Group III showed significantly lower aldosterone responses than group I (P < 0.01). Group II included all patients with IHA and two patients with APA. Group III included only patients with APA. The blood pressure responses to [des-Asp]-AII of subjects in group I did not differ significantly from those of groups II or III.Thus, patients with IHA and a subgroup of patients with APA showed responsiveness to [des-Asp]-AII which was limited to adrenal cortical stimulation of aldosterone biosynthesis. This suggests that adrenal responsiveness to angiotensin is a major control mechanism in some forms of primary aldosteronism. The differential adrenal responsiveness to [des-Asp]-AII in patients with APA indicates either that there are two distinct subpopulations of APA, or that alteration in tumor response to angiotensin occurs during the natural progression of the disease history.", "contents": "Activity of [des-aspartyl1]-angiotensin II in primary aldosteronism. This study describes the effects of [des-Aspartyl(1)]-angiotensin II ([des-Asp]-AII) on blood pressure and aldosterone production in patients with primary aldosteronism due to aldosterone-producing adrenal adenoma (APA) and idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia (IHA), and in normotensive control subjects. 10 patients with primary aldosteronism, 7 with APA and 3 with IHA, and 6 normotensive control subjects were placed on a constant 150-meq sodium diet for 4 days. [des-Asp]-AII was infused for 30 min at 6, 12, and 18 pmol/kg per min. Three groups of patients were identified on the basis of aldosterone response to [des-Asp]-AII. Group I, composed of normotensive control subjects, showed incremental increases in plasma aldosterone concentration from 6+/-1 to 14+/-3 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) with [des-Asp]-AII infusion. Group II, composed of patients with primary aldosteronism, showed incremental increases in plasma aldosterone concentration from 33+/-8 to 65+/-13 ng/100 ml (P < 0.05) with 12 pmol/kg per min of [des-Asp]-AII. Group III, also composed of patients with primary aldosteronism, showed no increase of plasma aldosterone concentration with [des-Asp]-AII. Groups I and II showed similar percentage increases in plasma aldosterone concentration (P = NS). Group III showed significantly lower aldosterone responses than group I (P < 0.01). Group II included all patients with IHA and two patients with APA. Group III included only patients with APA. The blood pressure responses to [des-Asp]-AII of subjects in group I did not differ significantly from those of groups II or III.Thus, patients with IHA and a subgroup of patients with APA showed responsiveness to [des-Asp]-AII which was limited to adrenal cortical stimulation of aldosterone biosynthesis. This suggests that adrenal responsiveness to angiotensin is a major control mechanism in some forms of primary aldosteronism. The differential adrenal responsiveness to [des-Asp]-AII in patients with APA indicates either that there are two distinct subpopulations of APA, or that alteration in tumor response to angiotensin occurs during the natural progression of the disease history.", "PMID": 438332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4003", "title": "Effects of metoclopramide and bromocriptine on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in man. Dopaminergic control of aldosterone.", "content": "This study was designed to investigate the possible role of dopaminergic mechanisms in the control of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in normal man. Six normal male subjects in metabolic balance at 150 meq sodium, 60 meq potassium constant intake received the specific dopamine antagonist, metoclopramide, 10 mg i.v. or placebo followed by angiotensin II infusion 1 h later on 2 consecutive days. Metoclopramide increased plasma aldosterone concentration from 8.2+/-2.2 to 21.0+/-3.3 ng/100 ml (P < 0.005) and plasma prolactin concentration from 18.0+/-4.0 to 91.7+/-4.0 ng/ml (P < 0.001) within 15 min of its administration. At 1 h, plasma aldosterone and prolactin concentrations remained elevated at 16.8+/-2.1 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) and 86.8+/-15.9 ng/ml (P < 0.005), respectively. Angiotensin II at 2, 4, and 6 pmol/kg per min further increased plasma aldosterone concentration to 27.2+/-3.4, 31.9+/-5.7, and 36.0+/-6.7 ng/100 ml (P < 0.02), respectively. Placebo did not alter plasma aldosterone or prolactin concentrations, but angiotensin II increased plasma aldosterone concentration to 13.7+/-2.4, 19.0+/-1.9, and 23.3+/-3.2 ng/100 ml (P < 0.005). The increment of plasma aldosterone concentration in response to angiotensin II was similar after metoclopramide or placebo. The six subjects also received the dopamine agonist, bromocriptine, 2.5 mg or placebo at 6 p.m., midnight, and 6 a.m. followed by angiotensin II infusion on 2 consecutive d. Bromocriptine suppressed prolactin to <3 ng/ml. After placebo, plasma aldosterone concentration increased from 5.2+/-1.4 to 12.3+/-1.7, 17.2+/-2.2, and 21.8+/-3.5 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) and after bromocriptine from 7.2+/-1.0 to 14.7+/-3.0, 19.8+/-3.2, and 23.4+/-1.6 ng/100 ml (P < 0.001) with each respective angiotensin II dose. No difference in the response to angiotensin II after bromocriptine or placebo was observed. Plasma renin activity, free 11-hydroxycorticoid concentration, and serum potassium concentration were unchanged by metoclopramide or bromocriptine. The results suggest that aldosterone production is under maximum tonic dopaminergic inhibition which can be overridden with stimulation by angiotensin II in normal man.", "contents": "Effects of metoclopramide and bromocriptine on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in man. Dopaminergic control of aldosterone. This study was designed to investigate the possible role of dopaminergic mechanisms in the control of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in normal man. Six normal male subjects in metabolic balance at 150 meq sodium, 60 meq potassium constant intake received the specific dopamine antagonist, metoclopramide, 10 mg i.v. or placebo followed by angiotensin II infusion 1 h later on 2 consecutive days. Metoclopramide increased plasma aldosterone concentration from 8.2+/-2.2 to 21.0+/-3.3 ng/100 ml (P < 0.005) and plasma prolactin concentration from 18.0+/-4.0 to 91.7+/-4.0 ng/ml (P < 0.001) within 15 min of its administration. At 1 h, plasma aldosterone and prolactin concentrations remained elevated at 16.8+/-2.1 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) and 86.8+/-15.9 ng/ml (P < 0.005), respectively. Angiotensin II at 2, 4, and 6 pmol/kg per min further increased plasma aldosterone concentration to 27.2+/-3.4, 31.9+/-5.7, and 36.0+/-6.7 ng/100 ml (P < 0.02), respectively. Placebo did not alter plasma aldosterone or prolactin concentrations, but angiotensin II increased plasma aldosterone concentration to 13.7+/-2.4, 19.0+/-1.9, and 23.3+/-3.2 ng/100 ml (P < 0.005). The increment of plasma aldosterone concentration in response to angiotensin II was similar after metoclopramide or placebo. The six subjects also received the dopamine agonist, bromocriptine, 2.5 mg or placebo at 6 p.m., midnight, and 6 a.m. followed by angiotensin II infusion on 2 consecutive d. Bromocriptine suppressed prolactin to <3 ng/ml. After placebo, plasma aldosterone concentration increased from 5.2+/-1.4 to 12.3+/-1.7, 17.2+/-2.2, and 21.8+/-3.5 ng/100 ml (P < 0.01) and after bromocriptine from 7.2+/-1.0 to 14.7+/-3.0, 19.8+/-3.2, and 23.4+/-1.6 ng/100 ml (P < 0.001) with each respective angiotensin II dose. No difference in the response to angiotensin II after bromocriptine or placebo was observed. Plasma renin activity, free 11-hydroxycorticoid concentration, and serum potassium concentration were unchanged by metoclopramide or bromocriptine. The results suggest that aldosterone production is under maximum tonic dopaminergic inhibition which can be overridden with stimulation by angiotensin II in normal man.", "PMID": 438333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4004", "title": "Defects in DNA and globin messenger RNA in homozygotes for hemoglobin Lepore.", "content": "Globin messenger RNA (mRNA) isolated from three patients homozygous for hemoglobin Lepore is shown to have a marked reduction of the amount of beta-like globin mRNA (Lepore-globin mRNA sequences) compared with alpha-globin mRNA by molecular hybridization. The relative amounts of alpha- and Lepore mRNA are similar to the amounts of alpha- and Lepore globin synthesized in intact cells and by isolated mRNA in a cell-free system. It is also demonstrated that Lepore-globin mRNA can completely hybridize to full-length or nearly full-length beta-globin specific complementary DNA and protect it from nuclease digestion, indicating close homology between the delta-mRNA sequences present in Lepore mRNA and the beta-complementary-DNA probe. We have also quantitated the numbers of beta-like globin gene sequences in genomic Lepore DNA by molecular hybridization and demonstrated a reduction in their number consistent with the Lepore gene being a delta beta-gene fusion product.", "contents": "Defects in DNA and globin messenger RNA in homozygotes for hemoglobin Lepore. Globin messenger RNA (mRNA) isolated from three patients homozygous for hemoglobin Lepore is shown to have a marked reduction of the amount of beta-like globin mRNA (Lepore-globin mRNA sequences) compared with alpha-globin mRNA by molecular hybridization. The relative amounts of alpha- and Lepore mRNA are similar to the amounts of alpha- and Lepore globin synthesized in intact cells and by isolated mRNA in a cell-free system. It is also demonstrated that Lepore-globin mRNA can completely hybridize to full-length or nearly full-length beta-globin specific complementary DNA and protect it from nuclease digestion, indicating close homology between the delta-mRNA sequences present in Lepore mRNA and the beta-complementary-DNA probe. We have also quantitated the numbers of beta-like globin gene sequences in genomic Lepore DNA by molecular hybridization and demonstrated a reduction in their number consistent with the Lepore gene being a delta beta-gene fusion product.", "PMID": 438334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4005", "title": "Immunoglobulin G independent activation of the classical complement pathway by monosodium urate crystals.", "content": "10 mg of monosodium urate crystals reduced the CH50 of 1 ml of human serum by 57% after 30 min at 37 degrees C. C1, C4, and C3 depletion of 52, 68, and 46% were typical of classical pathway activation. C1 binding and activation occurred when urate crystals were incubated with isolated precursor C1, and required the intact macromolecule, C1qrs. Activation of isolated C1 by urate crystals was not diminished by F(ab')2 anti-Fc under conditions in which C1 activation by aggregated immunoglobulin (G) was blocked by the F(ab')2 antibody.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin G independent activation of the classical complement pathway by monosodium urate crystals. 10 mg of monosodium urate crystals reduced the CH50 of 1 ml of human serum by 57% after 30 min at 37 degrees C. C1, C4, and C3 depletion of 52, 68, and 46% were typical of classical pathway activation. C1 binding and activation occurred when urate crystals were incubated with isolated precursor C1, and required the intact macromolecule, C1qrs. Activation of isolated C1 by urate crystals was not diminished by F(ab')2 anti-Fc under conditions in which C1 activation by aggregated immunoglobulin (G) was blocked by the F(ab')2 antibody.", "PMID": 438335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4006", "title": "Hypoxanthine uptake in isolated rat renal cortical tubule fragments.", "content": "Isolated renal tubule fragments prepared from adult Sprague-Dawley rats were used to study the cellular uptake of hypoxanthine. This uptake was rapid, reaching a steady state after 30 min of incubation. Analysis of the intracellular pool during the initial uptake and at the steady state revealed a concentration gradient of hypoxanthine consistent with active transport, although only one-third of the transported hypoxanthine remained unmetabolized. The remainder of the transported hypoxanthine was converted to inosine and inosinic acid, but detectable conversion to uric acid was not noted. A kinetic analysis of uptake revealed that two systems for cellular entry of hypoxanthine existed with K(m1) = 0.005 and K(m2) = 0.80 mM. Hypoxanthine uptake at physiologic concentrations was oxygen, sodium, and temperature dependent, but the addition of metabolic fuels and alteration of the medium pH over the range of from 6.1 to 7.4 had no effect. Adenine, guanine, and inosine inhibited the uptake of hypoxanthine via the low-K(m) system which mediates the majority of uptake at physiologic levels. Xanthine, uric acid, and probenecid inhibited uptake via the high-K(m) system, but did not affect uptake via the low-K(m) system. The data indicate that hypoxanthine at physiologic levels is transported into the renal tubule cell via a system different from that for other oxypurines.", "contents": "Hypoxanthine uptake in isolated rat renal cortical tubule fragments. Isolated renal tubule fragments prepared from adult Sprague-Dawley rats were used to study the cellular uptake of hypoxanthine. This uptake was rapid, reaching a steady state after 30 min of incubation. Analysis of the intracellular pool during the initial uptake and at the steady state revealed a concentration gradient of hypoxanthine consistent with active transport, although only one-third of the transported hypoxanthine remained unmetabolized. The remainder of the transported hypoxanthine was converted to inosine and inosinic acid, but detectable conversion to uric acid was not noted. A kinetic analysis of uptake revealed that two systems for cellular entry of hypoxanthine existed with K(m1) = 0.005 and K(m2) = 0.80 mM. Hypoxanthine uptake at physiologic concentrations was oxygen, sodium, and temperature dependent, but the addition of metabolic fuels and alteration of the medium pH over the range of from 6.1 to 7.4 had no effect. Adenine, guanine, and inosine inhibited the uptake of hypoxanthine via the low-K(m) system which mediates the majority of uptake at physiologic levels. Xanthine, uric acid, and probenecid inhibited uptake via the high-K(m) system, but did not affect uptake via the low-K(m) system. The data indicate that hypoxanthine at physiologic levels is transported into the renal tubule cell via a system different from that for other oxypurines.", "PMID": 438336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4007", "title": "Cyclic hematopoiesis. Effects of endotoxin on colony-forming cells and colony-stimulating activity in grey collie dogs.", "content": "Cyclic changes in blood neutrophil counts of grey collie dogs with cyclic hematopoiesis can be eliminated by daily endotoxin injections. Studies were performed to determine the mechanism whereby endotoxin alters this disease. Bone marrow granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cells (colony-forming cells [CFUc]) showed cyclic variation in the untreated grey collie, which was eliminated by chronic endotoxin treatment (Salmonella typhosa lipopolysaccharide W, 5 microgram/kg per day). Similar cyclic variation in blood CFUc was eliminated by this treatment. Tritiated thymidine suicide of the marrow colony-forming cells failed to show cyclic changes to explain the marked swing in CFUc numbers in untreated grey collies. The thymidine suicide rates were not significantly changed by chronic endotoxin treatment. Similarly, serum colony-stimulating activity did not show cyclic variation with the cyclic neutrophil counts in untreated grey collies and was not altered by chronic endotoxin treatment. We suggest that endotoxin eliminates neutrophil cycling in cyclic hematopoiesis by a direct effect on the flux of pluripotent stem cells into the committed stem cell compartment and that this occurs independent of changes in serum colony-stimulating activity.", "contents": "Cyclic hematopoiesis. Effects of endotoxin on colony-forming cells and colony-stimulating activity in grey collie dogs. Cyclic changes in blood neutrophil counts of grey collie dogs with cyclic hematopoiesis can be eliminated by daily endotoxin injections. Studies were performed to determine the mechanism whereby endotoxin alters this disease. Bone marrow granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cells (colony-forming cells [CFUc]) showed cyclic variation in the untreated grey collie, which was eliminated by chronic endotoxin treatment (Salmonella typhosa lipopolysaccharide W, 5 microgram/kg per day). Similar cyclic variation in blood CFUc was eliminated by this treatment. Tritiated thymidine suicide of the marrow colony-forming cells failed to show cyclic changes to explain the marked swing in CFUc numbers in untreated grey collies. The thymidine suicide rates were not significantly changed by chronic endotoxin treatment. Similarly, serum colony-stimulating activity did not show cyclic variation with the cyclic neutrophil counts in untreated grey collies and was not altered by chronic endotoxin treatment. We suggest that endotoxin eliminates neutrophil cycling in cyclic hematopoiesis by a direct effect on the flux of pluripotent stem cells into the committed stem cell compartment and that this occurs independent of changes in serum colony-stimulating activity.", "PMID": 438337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4008", "title": "Corticosteroids inhibit complement-induced granulocyte aggregation. A possible mechanism for their efficacy in shock states.", "content": "Granulocyte (PMN) aggregation and embolization may underlie complement (C)-mediated organ dysfunction in such syndromes as hemodialysis neutropenia and Purtscher's ischem;c retinopathy. Because of clinical and pathologic parallels, we have further suggested a role for this phenomenon in the genesis of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Because corticosteroids are commonly used in immune diseases, and have particularly been claimed efficacious in shock and ARDS, we tested the capability of methylprednisolone (MP), hydrocortisone (HC), and dexamethasone (DEX) to inhibit PMN aggregation. Aggregation engendered in vitro by zymosan-activated plasma (ZAP) was inhibited by MP and HC at concentrations approximating plasma levels achieved with the large bolus (30 mg/kg i.v) therapy advocated in shock states; DEX was almost without effect. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy, we observed PMN aggregation and embolization in the mesenteric vessels of rats given intra-arterial infusions of ZAP; this was also prevented by pretreatment with 30 mg/kg MP. Steroid inhibition of aggregation seemed not to involve disruption of receptor function, because aggregation induced by alternative agents, n-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe and the ionophore A23187, was also inhibited by MP. Moreover, corticosteroid inhibition of PMN prostaglandin synthesis is also an unlikely explanation for our results, since aspirin and ibuprofen failed to block aggregation and arachidonic acid neither effected aggregation itself nor ameliorated the steroid effect. Our studies provide a plausible rationale for the empiric observation that high-dose corticosteroids may benefit patients with syndromes associated with microvascular leukostasis.", "contents": "Corticosteroids inhibit complement-induced granulocyte aggregation. A possible mechanism for their efficacy in shock states. Granulocyte (PMN) aggregation and embolization may underlie complement (C)-mediated organ dysfunction in such syndromes as hemodialysis neutropenia and Purtscher's ischem;c retinopathy. Because of clinical and pathologic parallels, we have further suggested a role for this phenomenon in the genesis of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Because corticosteroids are commonly used in immune diseases, and have particularly been claimed efficacious in shock and ARDS, we tested the capability of methylprednisolone (MP), hydrocortisone (HC), and dexamethasone (DEX) to inhibit PMN aggregation. Aggregation engendered in vitro by zymosan-activated plasma (ZAP) was inhibited by MP and HC at concentrations approximating plasma levels achieved with the large bolus (30 mg/kg i.v) therapy advocated in shock states; DEX was almost without effect. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy, we observed PMN aggregation and embolization in the mesenteric vessels of rats given intra-arterial infusions of ZAP; this was also prevented by pretreatment with 30 mg/kg MP. Steroid inhibition of aggregation seemed not to involve disruption of receptor function, because aggregation induced by alternative agents, n-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe and the ionophore A23187, was also inhibited by MP. Moreover, corticosteroid inhibition of PMN prostaglandin synthesis is also an unlikely explanation for our results, since aspirin and ibuprofen failed to block aggregation and arachidonic acid neither effected aggregation itself nor ameliorated the steroid effect. Our studies provide a plausible rationale for the empiric observation that high-dose corticosteroids may benefit patients with syndromes associated with microvascular leukostasis.", "PMID": 438338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4009", "title": "Hemoglobin biosynthesis in individual erythropoietic bursts in culture. Studies of adult peripheral blood.", "content": "By using a methylcellulose clonal assay, we cultured peripheral blood erythropoietic precursors from a patient with sickle cell anemia, a patient with sickle cell hemoglobin C disease, and a normal volunteer. We then analyzed the synthetic rates of adult and fetal hemoglobins (Hb) in individual erythropoietic bursts. Bb were labeled with 14C-amino acids in culture, separated by slab gel isoelectric focusing techniques, and quantitated by fluorographic methods. All bursts exhibited both fetal and adult Hb in varying ratios. Frequency distributions of the individual burst differing in percentage of BbF biosynthesis approached normal distributions. Further stimulation of HbF synthesis by higher erythropoietin in culture was associated with increased HbF biosynthesis in individual bursts. Augmentation of human HbF synthesis in culture appears to be controlled by qualitative intracellular changes rather than by changes in cellular population.", "contents": "Hemoglobin biosynthesis in individual erythropoietic bursts in culture. Studies of adult peripheral blood. By using a methylcellulose clonal assay, we cultured peripheral blood erythropoietic precursors from a patient with sickle cell anemia, a patient with sickle cell hemoglobin C disease, and a normal volunteer. We then analyzed the synthetic rates of adult and fetal hemoglobins (Hb) in individual erythropoietic bursts. Bb were labeled with 14C-amino acids in culture, separated by slab gel isoelectric focusing techniques, and quantitated by fluorographic methods. All bursts exhibited both fetal and adult Hb in varying ratios. Frequency distributions of the individual burst differing in percentage of BbF biosynthesis approached normal distributions. Further stimulation of HbF synthesis by higher erythropoietin in culture was associated with increased HbF biosynthesis in individual bursts. Augmentation of human HbF synthesis in culture appears to be controlled by qualitative intracellular changes rather than by changes in cellular population.", "PMID": 438339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4010", "title": "An approach to quality and performance control in a computer-assisted clinical chemistry laboratory.", "content": "A locally developed, computer-based clinical chemistry laboratory system has been in operation since 1970. This utilises a Digital Equipment Co Ltd PDP 12 and an interconnected PDP 8/F computer. Details are presented of the performance and quality control techniques incorporated into the system. Laboratory performance is assessed through analysis of results from fixed-level control sera as well as from cumulative sum methods. At a simple level the presentation may be considered purely indicative, while at a more sophisticated level statistical concepts have been introduced to aid the laboratory controller in decision-making processes.", "contents": "An approach to quality and performance control in a computer-assisted clinical chemistry laboratory. A locally developed, computer-based clinical chemistry laboratory system has been in operation since 1970. This utilises a Digital Equipment Co Ltd PDP 12 and an interconnected PDP 8/F computer. Details are presented of the performance and quality control techniques incorporated into the system. Laboratory performance is assessed through analysis of results from fixed-level control sera as well as from cumulative sum methods. At a simple level the presentation may be considered purely indicative, while at a more sophisticated level statistical concepts have been introduced to aid the laboratory controller in decision-making processes.", "PMID": 438340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4011", "title": "Urinary total porphyrins by ion exchange analysis: reference values for the normal range and remarks on preformed prophyrins in acute porphyria urine.", "content": "Determination of total porphyrin with a rapid and east method (ion exchange; spectrophotometry) was performed on 57 morning urine samples from laboratory personnel, 59 arbitrary day urine samples from blood donors, and 90 24-hour urines from medical inpatients. The upper reference limit for morning urine was 0.32 mumol/l but even a value as high as 0.7 mumol/l was found. In the donor urines the upper limit was 0.155 mumol/l. The 24-hour urines showed an upper reference limit of 271 microgram/24 h. These values are in good agreement with values from the literature, mostly based on extraction analyses. Tracings of the absorption curves in the region of 380--430 nm were performed in all analyses and showed that the non-porphyrin absorption was close to linear in most cases. Studies of porphyric urines gave no support to the claim that preformed porphyrins not formed from porphobilinogen are excreted in this disease.", "contents": "Urinary total porphyrins by ion exchange analysis: reference values for the normal range and remarks on preformed prophyrins in acute porphyria urine. Determination of total porphyrin with a rapid and east method (ion exchange; spectrophotometry) was performed on 57 morning urine samples from laboratory personnel, 59 arbitrary day urine samples from blood donors, and 90 24-hour urines from medical inpatients. The upper reference limit for morning urine was 0.32 mumol/l but even a value as high as 0.7 mumol/l was found. In the donor urines the upper limit was 0.155 mumol/l. The 24-hour urines showed an upper reference limit of 271 microgram/24 h. These values are in good agreement with values from the literature, mostly based on extraction analyses. Tracings of the absorption curves in the region of 380--430 nm were performed in all analyses and showed that the non-porphyrin absorption was close to linear in most cases. Studies of porphyric urines gave no support to the claim that preformed porphyrins not formed from porphobilinogen are excreted in this disease.", "PMID": 438341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4012", "title": "Serum protein profile in sickle cell disease.", "content": "The total protein, albumin, globulin, and immunoglobulin levels of sera from 96 children with homozygous sickle cell disease were studied. A comparison of the results with the levels found in a control group of normal children of the same age shows that the sicklers have higher total protein, globulin, and IgM levels. The amounts of albumin and IgA seen were almost the same in both groups. The IgG levels differed considerably, the sicklers having only about half the quantity seen in normal children.", "contents": "Serum protein profile in sickle cell disease. The total protein, albumin, globulin, and immunoglobulin levels of sera from 96 children with homozygous sickle cell disease were studied. A comparison of the results with the levels found in a control group of normal children of the same age shows that the sicklers have higher total protein, globulin, and IgM levels. The amounts of albumin and IgA seen were almost the same in both groups. The IgG levels differed considerably, the sicklers having only about half the quantity seen in normal children.", "PMID": 438342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4013", "title": "Comparison of passive haemagglutination and haemagglutination-inhibition techniques for detection of antibodies to rubella virus.", "content": "Because of the technical problems and length of time involved in the satisfactory performance of the haemagglutination-inhibition test for detection of rubella-specific antibodies, a commercially available passive haemagglutination (PHA) kit utilising rubella antigen-sensitised human erythrocytes was tested for its suitability for use in diagnostic laboratories. The immune response to acute rubella infections as measured by PHA was considerably delayed compared to the response measured by haemagglutination-inhitition. Titres of rubella-specific antibody only became comparable six months after the infection. The commercially available PHA kits is a useful addition to diagnostic laboratories for the determination of immune status and, in conjunction with the haemagglutination-inhibition test, can be an indicator of recent rubella infection.", "contents": "Comparison of passive haemagglutination and haemagglutination-inhibition techniques for detection of antibodies to rubella virus. Because of the technical problems and length of time involved in the satisfactory performance of the haemagglutination-inhibition test for detection of rubella-specific antibodies, a commercially available passive haemagglutination (PHA) kit utilising rubella antigen-sensitised human erythrocytes was tested for its suitability for use in diagnostic laboratories. The immune response to acute rubella infections as measured by PHA was considerably delayed compared to the response measured by haemagglutination-inhitition. Titres of rubella-specific antibody only became comparable six months after the infection. The commercially available PHA kits is a useful addition to diagnostic laboratories for the determination of immune status and, in conjunction with the haemagglutination-inhibition test, can be an indicator of recent rubella infection.", "PMID": 438343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4014", "title": "Anaerobic organisms in postoperative wounds.", "content": "A survey of the bacteria found in postoperative wounds was undertaken during a 14-month period. The yields of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in 65 appendicectomy wounds were compared; 42 wounds yielded aerobes and 51 anaerobes. Seventy-eight other operation wounds yielded anaerobes, and, overall, 33 wounds yielded anaerobes only. Bacteroides sp were the most common anaerobic organisms isolated from all operation sites except the lung.", "contents": "Anaerobic organisms in postoperative wounds. A survey of the bacteria found in postoperative wounds was undertaken during a 14-month period. The yields of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in 65 appendicectomy wounds were compared; 42 wounds yielded aerobes and 51 anaerobes. Seventy-eight other operation wounds yielded anaerobes, and, overall, 33 wounds yielded anaerobes only. Bacteroides sp were the most common anaerobic organisms isolated from all operation sites except the lung.", "PMID": 438344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4015", "title": "Anti blood group-M autoantibodies with livedo reticularis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and anaemia.", "content": "A 63-year-old woman presented with Raynaud's phenomenon and extensive cold-induced livedo reticularis. A skin biopsy showed no abnormality of the blood vessels but the blood contained high titres of a very unusual autoantibody against the M blood group, most active at low temperatures. An IgM cryoglobulin was detected, and anti-M activity was found in this fraction. The cells of the patient were grouped as MM. The direct antiglobulin test was positive due to C3 component of complement bound to the red cells. The haematological and biochemical results indicate a mild haemolytic process, which is at present well compensated.", "contents": "Anti blood group-M autoantibodies with livedo reticularis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and anaemia. A 63-year-old woman presented with Raynaud's phenomenon and extensive cold-induced livedo reticularis. A skin biopsy showed no abnormality of the blood vessels but the blood contained high titres of a very unusual autoantibody against the M blood group, most active at low temperatures. An IgM cryoglobulin was detected, and anti-M activity was found in this fraction. The cells of the patient were grouped as MM. The direct antiglobulin test was positive due to C3 component of complement bound to the red cells. The haematological and biochemical results indicate a mild haemolytic process, which is at present well compensated.", "PMID": 438345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4016", "title": "Gastin cells and fasting gastrin levels in duodenal ulcer patients: a quantitative study based on multiple biopsy specimens.", "content": "The number of gastrin-producing cells in biopsy specimens from the gastric and duodenal mucosae in 19 duodenal ulcer patients was quantitated using a morphometric method. The level of immunoreactive gastrin in a sample of fasting serum obtained at the time of the biopsy was measured by radioimmunoassay. The results show no significant difference when compared with those from a group of normal control volunteers. Moreover, there was no correlation between the numbers of gastrin-producing cells and the fasting serum gastrin level in either controls or duodenal ulcer patients.", "contents": "Gastin cells and fasting gastrin levels in duodenal ulcer patients: a quantitative study based on multiple biopsy specimens. The number of gastrin-producing cells in biopsy specimens from the gastric and duodenal mucosae in 19 duodenal ulcer patients was quantitated using a morphometric method. The level of immunoreactive gastrin in a sample of fasting serum obtained at the time of the biopsy was measured by radioimmunoassay. The results show no significant difference when compared with those from a group of normal control volunteers. Moreover, there was no correlation between the numbers of gastrin-producing cells and the fasting serum gastrin level in either controls or duodenal ulcer patients.", "PMID": 438346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4017", "title": "Histological appearances of the gastric mucosa 15--27 years after partial gastrectomy.", "content": "Sixty-three patients, who had had a partial gastrectomy 15--27 years previously, were examined by endoscopy and multiple mucosal biopsies. No patient had a completely normal gastric mucosa; they showed varying degrees of gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and dysplasia: 21% had significant dysplasia, and these are regarded as an 'at-risk' group requiring frequent follow-up examinations. One patient had severe dysplasia (carcinoma-in-situ), but no case of infiltrating carcinoma was found.", "contents": "Histological appearances of the gastric mucosa 15--27 years after partial gastrectomy. Sixty-three patients, who had had a partial gastrectomy 15--27 years previously, were examined by endoscopy and multiple mucosal biopsies. No patient had a completely normal gastric mucosa; they showed varying degrees of gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and dysplasia: 21% had significant dysplasia, and these are regarded as an 'at-risk' group requiring frequent follow-up examinations. One patient had severe dysplasia (carcinoma-in-situ), but no case of infiltrating carcinoma was found.", "PMID": 438347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4018", "title": "The priority test request form: a method for improving communication between the physician and the Emergency Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory.", "content": "Two forms--a priority test request form and a telephone results form--provide improved communication between the physician and the emergency laboratory of the Clinical Biochemistry Department. The priority test request form contains a list of available tests and it allows the physician to tell the laboratory exactly when emergency test results are required. The telephone results form ensures that the physician will receive a report, by telephone, of a test result although it may not be an urgent test. This allows a greater control of work flow, both routine and emergency, through the laboratory.", "contents": "The priority test request form: a method for improving communication between the physician and the Emergency Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory. Two forms--a priority test request form and a telephone results form--provide improved communication between the physician and the emergency laboratory of the Clinical Biochemistry Department. The priority test request form contains a list of available tests and it allows the physician to tell the laboratory exactly when emergency test results are required. The telephone results form ensures that the physician will receive a report, by telephone, of a test result although it may not be an urgent test. This allows a greater control of work flow, both routine and emergency, through the laboratory.", "PMID": 438351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4019", "title": "Enhanced transformation of digitoxin to dihydrodigitoxin in humans with renal failure.", "content": "A gas-chromatographic mass-spectroscopic technique was used to identify dihydrodigitoxin, a metabolite of digitoxin, in the plasma of healthy volunteers and patients with renal failure. Digitoxin and dihydrodigitoxin were extracted from plasma and derivatized with heptafluorbutyric anhydride. In normal subjects, only minimal concentrations of dihydrodigitoxin in plasma could be determined (1 ng/ml) after an intravenous bolus injection of digitoxin. Under a chronic treatment with a daily dose of 0.1 mg digitoxin in three out of seven individuals, detectable dihydrodigitoxin plasma levels were observed (0.7, 1.5, and 1.7 ng/ml) (Table I). On the other hand, in seven patients with renal failure, high dihydrodigitoxin plasma concentrations (8.9 +/- 0.9 ng/ml) were shown which were in a similar range as those of the parent compound (8.7 +/- 2.2 ng/ml) under a maintenance treatment with digitoxin.", "contents": "Enhanced transformation of digitoxin to dihydrodigitoxin in humans with renal failure. A gas-chromatographic mass-spectroscopic technique was used to identify dihydrodigitoxin, a metabolite of digitoxin, in the plasma of healthy volunteers and patients with renal failure. Digitoxin and dihydrodigitoxin were extracted from plasma and derivatized with heptafluorbutyric anhydride. In normal subjects, only minimal concentrations of dihydrodigitoxin in plasma could be determined (1 ng/ml) after an intravenous bolus injection of digitoxin. Under a chronic treatment with a daily dose of 0.1 mg digitoxin in three out of seven individuals, detectable dihydrodigitoxin plasma levels were observed (0.7, 1.5, and 1.7 ng/ml) (Table I). On the other hand, in seven patients with renal failure, high dihydrodigitoxin plasma concentrations (8.9 +/- 0.9 ng/ml) were shown which were in a similar range as those of the parent compound (8.7 +/- 2.2 ng/ml) under a maintenance treatment with digitoxin.", "PMID": 438353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4020", "title": "Effect of furosemide on serum clearance and renal excretion of digoxin.", "content": "Serum turnover and urinary excretion of digoxin with or without oral furosemide were studied in six healthy subjects who received 0.006 mg/kg body weight digoxin intravenously. During furosemide treatment, the total amount of urinary digoxin did not change but the digoxin clearance during the diuretic phase and the digoxin excretion after the diuresis decreased significantly. The average serum half-life was prolonged from 37 hours in the control period to 86 hours in the furosemide period. Decreased glomerular filtration rate by volume depletion might have been responsible for the decreased excretion of digoxin, but there was no significant difference in urine volume after diuresis between the two periods, suggesting the possibility of inhibition of tubular secretion of digoxin by furosemide. It is also possible that serum digoxin concentration may be elevated if furosemide were given more frequently.", "contents": "Effect of furosemide on serum clearance and renal excretion of digoxin. Serum turnover and urinary excretion of digoxin with or without oral furosemide were studied in six healthy subjects who received 0.006 mg/kg body weight digoxin intravenously. During furosemide treatment, the total amount of urinary digoxin did not change but the digoxin clearance during the diuretic phase and the digoxin excretion after the diuresis decreased significantly. The average serum half-life was prolonged from 37 hours in the control period to 86 hours in the furosemide period. Decreased glomerular filtration rate by volume depletion might have been responsible for the decreased excretion of digoxin, but there was no significant difference in urine volume after diuresis between the two periods, suggesting the possibility of inhibition of tubular secretion of digoxin by furosemide. It is also possible that serum digoxin concentration may be elevated if furosemide were given more frequently.", "PMID": 438354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4021", "title": "The respiratory effects of dezocine and pentazocine in man.", "content": "The respiratory effects of dezocine and pentazocine were studied in five volunteers. Based on their effects over a 3-hour period, it was found that dezocine was 8.6 times as potent as pentazocine in terms of their respiratory depressant effects. The clinical significance of these findings remains to be determined.", "contents": "The respiratory effects of dezocine and pentazocine in man. The respiratory effects of dezocine and pentazocine were studied in five volunteers. Based on their effects over a 3-hour period, it was found that dezocine was 8.6 times as potent as pentazocine in terms of their respiratory depressant effects. The clinical significance of these findings remains to be determined.", "PMID": 438355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4022", "title": "Human pharmacokinetics and comparative bioavailability of loperamide hydrochloride.", "content": "A pharmacokinetic study of the antidiarrheal agent loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium) was conducted in six male subjects. The study utilized a random crossover design and employed a 2-mg capsule and a 0.2-mg/ml syrup formulation. Each treatment consisted of a single oral dose of 8 mg loperamide HCl followed by a two-week interval before the next treatment. Serum and urine samples obtained at various times after drug administration were assayed for loperamide using a radioimmunoassay specific for the drug. The mean biologic half-life, calculated from the elimination phase of the log serum concentration-versus-time data, was 10.8 +/- 0.6 hours for the overall study, 10.2 +/- 0.6 hours for the syrup formulation, and 11.2 +/- 0.8 hours for the capsules. The loperamide from the syrup was absorbed more rapidly than from the capsule formulation, with the peak serum levels observed at a mean time of 2.4 +/- 0.7 hours for the syrup and 5.2 +/- 0.3 hours for the capsule formulation. The relative areas under the serum loperamide concentration-versus-time curves suggested that the two formulations have comparable physiologic availability. The maximum observed serum concentrations were also similar, indicating the safety of the syrup formulation. Excretion of approximately 1 per cent of the dose in the urine as unchanged loperamide after seven days was observed independent of the particular dosage form that was administered.", "contents": "Human pharmacokinetics and comparative bioavailability of loperamide hydrochloride. A pharmacokinetic study of the antidiarrheal agent loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium) was conducted in six male subjects. The study utilized a random crossover design and employed a 2-mg capsule and a 0.2-mg/ml syrup formulation. Each treatment consisted of a single oral dose of 8 mg loperamide HCl followed by a two-week interval before the next treatment. Serum and urine samples obtained at various times after drug administration were assayed for loperamide using a radioimmunoassay specific for the drug. The mean biologic half-life, calculated from the elimination phase of the log serum concentration-versus-time data, was 10.8 +/- 0.6 hours for the overall study, 10.2 +/- 0.6 hours for the syrup formulation, and 11.2 +/- 0.8 hours for the capsules. The loperamide from the syrup was absorbed more rapidly than from the capsule formulation, with the peak serum levels observed at a mean time of 2.4 +/- 0.7 hours for the syrup and 5.2 +/- 0.3 hours for the capsule formulation. The relative areas under the serum loperamide concentration-versus-time curves suggested that the two formulations have comparable physiologic availability. The maximum observed serum concentrations were also similar, indicating the safety of the syrup formulation. Excretion of approximately 1 per cent of the dose in the urine as unchanged loperamide after seven days was observed independent of the particular dosage form that was administered.", "PMID": 438356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4023", "title": "Hemodialysis of theophylline in uremic patients.", "content": "Hemodialysis of theophylline was studied in three uremic patients. The dialysis clearance ranged from 75.6 to 97.9 ml/min and averaged 88.1 ml/min. A much smaller value of 32.8 ml/min was reported by Levy and associates. The difference may be attributed to the two monitoring factors during hemodialysis, namely, blood and dialyzate flow rates. Both were higher in our study. Analysis of the semilogarithmic plots of the arterial plasma concentration versus time over a 3-hour period gave apparent half-lives of 3.15, 2.04, and 2.73 hours, respectively, for the three patients. Half-life of theophylline in normal subjects ranged from 4 to 6 hours or even longer. A prolonged half-life of theophylline in uremia could be expected. Our kinetic study indicated an approximately 50 per cent reduction in terminal half-life during hemodialysis. Hourly dialyzate was collected from one patient to account for drug recovery in the dialysis fluid. Forty per cent of the administered dose was recovered in the dialyzate during a 3-hour dialysis period, indicating effective removal. Dialysis clearance for creatinine was calculated by arterial-venous difference and correlated with that of theophylline. We found that theophylline was cleared by the dialyzer at a rate approximating 63 per cent of creatinine removal.", "contents": "Hemodialysis of theophylline in uremic patients. Hemodialysis of theophylline was studied in three uremic patients. The dialysis clearance ranged from 75.6 to 97.9 ml/min and averaged 88.1 ml/min. A much smaller value of 32.8 ml/min was reported by Levy and associates. The difference may be attributed to the two monitoring factors during hemodialysis, namely, blood and dialyzate flow rates. Both were higher in our study. Analysis of the semilogarithmic plots of the arterial plasma concentration versus time over a 3-hour period gave apparent half-lives of 3.15, 2.04, and 2.73 hours, respectively, for the three patients. Half-life of theophylline in normal subjects ranged from 4 to 6 hours or even longer. A prolonged half-life of theophylline in uremia could be expected. Our kinetic study indicated an approximately 50 per cent reduction in terminal half-life during hemodialysis. Hourly dialyzate was collected from one patient to account for drug recovery in the dialysis fluid. Forty per cent of the administered dose was recovered in the dialyzate during a 3-hour dialysis period, indicating effective removal. Dialysis clearance for creatinine was calculated by arterial-venous difference and correlated with that of theophylline. We found that theophylline was cleared by the dialyzer at a rate approximating 63 per cent of creatinine removal.", "PMID": 438357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4024", "title": "The relationship between information transfer and speech intelligibility of dysarthric speakers.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between information transfer and speech intelligibility, as measured by single-word and paragraph transcription across a wide range od dysarthric speakers. Nine dysarthric speakers, including ataxic, spastic, and hypokinetic types, participated in the study. Their performance was judged by 108 listeners. The correlations between information transfer and paragraph and transcription scores and between information transfer and word transcription scores were high, i.e., 0.95 and 0.90, respectively. Word transcription scores tended to be slightly lower than information transfer scores for mildly dysarthric speakers. Clinical implications of these findings were discussed.", "contents": "The relationship between information transfer and speech intelligibility of dysarthric speakers. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between information transfer and speech intelligibility, as measured by single-word and paragraph transcription across a wide range od dysarthric speakers. Nine dysarthric speakers, including ataxic, spastic, and hypokinetic types, participated in the study. Their performance was judged by 108 listeners. The correlations between information transfer and paragraph and transcription scores and between information transfer and word transcription scores were high, i.e., 0.95 and 0.90, respectively. Word transcription scores tended to be slightly lower than information transfer scores for mildly dysarthric speakers. Clinical implications of these findings were discussed.", "PMID": 438358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4025", "title": "Semantic paraphasia.", "content": "In the present paper a large corpus of semantic word selection errors from a severe Wernicke's aphasic is analyzed in accordance with a taxonomy recently proposed in the literature. In an attempt to demonstrate the systematicity of the aphasic substitutions, the errors are classified along a wide range of conceptual spheres. In addition, recent theories of the Russian neuropsychologist A. R. Luria are considered in providing an explanation for lexical selection deficits. Finally, comparisons are made between aphasic errors and similar errors seen in \"slips-of-the-tongue\" in non-brain damaged normal subjects.", "contents": "Semantic paraphasia. In the present paper a large corpus of semantic word selection errors from a severe Wernicke's aphasic is analyzed in accordance with a taxonomy recently proposed in the literature. In an attempt to demonstrate the systematicity of the aphasic substitutions, the errors are classified along a wide range of conceptual spheres. In addition, recent theories of the Russian neuropsychologist A. R. Luria are considered in providing an explanation for lexical selection deficits. Finally, comparisons are made between aphasic errors and similar errors seen in \"slips-of-the-tongue\" in non-brain damaged normal subjects.", "PMID": 438359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4026", "title": "Cortical word deafness in a child: a case history.", "content": "Despite the recent report of Goldstein et al. (1975) on pure word deafness in an adult, it still seems worthwhile to study the case of cortical deafness in a child, not only because we believe this to be one of the very few cases duly reported upon, but also because of its interesting pathological history, its implications for the existence of specific speech sound detectors, and its evidence of pathological communicative behavior which deviates from that of a deaf child.", "contents": "Cortical word deafness in a child: a case history. Despite the recent report of Goldstein et al. (1975) on pure word deafness in an adult, it still seems worthwhile to study the case of cortical deafness in a child, not only because we believe this to be one of the very few cases duly reported upon, but also because of its interesting pathological history, its implications for the existence of specific speech sound detectors, and its evidence of pathological communicative behavior which deviates from that of a deaf child.", "PMID": 438360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4027", "title": "Social class, defective hearing, and language.", "content": "Linguistic behavior of lower class normal-hearing children is less developed than that of higher class children. This study tests the hypothesis that the same applies to hearing defective (h.d.) children. Ninety-six h.d. children were tested with a linguistic ability test. The h.d. chiren scored lower than the higher class h.d. children. Within their own class the difference between the higher class h.d. and normal-hearing children was larger than that between lower class h.d. and normla-hearing children.", "contents": "Social class, defective hearing, and language. Linguistic behavior of lower class normal-hearing children is less developed than that of higher class children. This study tests the hypothesis that the same applies to hearing defective (h.d.) children. Ninety-six h.d. children were tested with a linguistic ability test. The h.d. chiren scored lower than the higher class h.d. children. Within their own class the difference between the higher class h.d. and normal-hearing children was larger than that between lower class h.d. and normla-hearing children.", "PMID": 438361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4028", "title": "Interaction of deaf and hearing preschool children.", "content": "Hearing and hearing-imparied children attending an integrated preschool were observed in a free-play situation. The principal objective was to discern how hearing and deaf children interacted and modified their communication skills as a function of hearing status. The data indicate that hearing children interact more frequently with other hearing children on several behavioral categories (approaches, vocalizations, social play, and physical contact). Although there was a tendency for deaf children to approach other deaf children more frequently than they approached hearing children, they showed no preferences for other interactions as a function of peers' hearing status. These findings are consistent with those of research on other exceptional children, such as the mentally retarded, in showing that, while hearing-impaired children showed no peer preference, they were least preferred by normal peers.", "contents": "Interaction of deaf and hearing preschool children. Hearing and hearing-imparied children attending an integrated preschool were observed in a free-play situation. The principal objective was to discern how hearing and deaf children interacted and modified their communication skills as a function of hearing status. The data indicate that hearing children interact more frequently with other hearing children on several behavioral categories (approaches, vocalizations, social play, and physical contact). Although there was a tendency for deaf children to approach other deaf children more frequently than they approached hearing children, they showed no preferences for other interactions as a function of peers' hearing status. These findings are consistent with those of research on other exceptional children, such as the mentally retarded, in showing that, while hearing-impaired children showed no peer preference, they were least preferred by normal peers.", "PMID": 438362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4029", "title": "Description and evaluation of structured speaking and listening activities for hearing-impaired adults.", "content": "This study was designed to evaluate improvement in word comprehension, pronunciation, and auditory discrimination as a result of structured group experience in speaking and listening. Subjects included 75 college students with hearing impairment and auditory discrimination for speech. Subjects were divided into three groups matched on the basis of hearing characteristics. Groups A and B received 20 hours of instruction over a 10-wk interval. Group A was evaluated relative to word comprehension, word usage in writing, and pronunciation. Group B was evaluated relative to auditory discrimination before and after training. Group C (control) did not receive training but auditory discrimination was evaluated over the 10-wk interval. Significant improvements in word comprehension, word usage in writing, pronunciation, and in auditory discrimination were achieved as a result of training. No significant change in auditory discrimination was observed in the control group.", "contents": "Description and evaluation of structured speaking and listening activities for hearing-impaired adults. This study was designed to evaluate improvement in word comprehension, pronunciation, and auditory discrimination as a result of structured group experience in speaking and listening. Subjects included 75 college students with hearing impairment and auditory discrimination for speech. Subjects were divided into three groups matched on the basis of hearing characteristics. Groups A and B received 20 hours of instruction over a 10-wk interval. Group A was evaluated relative to word comprehension, word usage in writing, and pronunciation. Group B was evaluated relative to auditory discrimination before and after training. Group C (control) did not receive training but auditory discrimination was evaluated over the 10-wk interval. Significant improvements in word comprehension, word usage in writing, pronunciation, and in auditory discrimination were achieved as a result of training. No significant change in auditory discrimination was observed in the control group.", "PMID": 438363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4030", "title": "Vocal register effects on vowel spectral noise and roughness: findings for adult females.", "content": "The effects of vocal register (vocal fry, modal, and falsetto) on the relative roughness and spectral noise level (SNL) of isolated test vowels (/u/ and/ae/) were investigated. Each of the three vocal registers; the obtained samples were magnetically recorded. A panel of 11 listeners independently verified by perceptual judgments that each recorded sample was produced in the \"desired\" vocal register. Also, they independently rated (on a 5-point equal-appearing intervals scale) the roughness of each test production. A median of the 11 roughness ratings (MRR) available was then obtained as an index of the roughness of each vowel sample. Additionally, a narrow-band (3 Hz) acoustic spectrum of each test production was made in which measures of vowel spectral noise were obtained. A mean over 25 noise measures per test production (from 100 to 2600 Hz) served as an index of the spectral noise level (SNL) for each vowel sample. The major finding in the study was that the MRR and the SNL for productions of both test vowels diminished significantly across vocal registers, from fry, to modal, to falsetto.", "contents": "Vocal register effects on vowel spectral noise and roughness: findings for adult females. The effects of vocal register (vocal fry, modal, and falsetto) on the relative roughness and spectral noise level (SNL) of isolated test vowels (/u/ and/ae/) were investigated. Each of the three vocal registers; the obtained samples were magnetically recorded. A panel of 11 listeners independently verified by perceptual judgments that each recorded sample was produced in the \"desired\" vocal register. Also, they independently rated (on a 5-point equal-appearing intervals scale) the roughness of each test production. A median of the 11 roughness ratings (MRR) available was then obtained as an index of the roughness of each vowel sample. Additionally, a narrow-band (3 Hz) acoustic spectrum of each test production was made in which measures of vowel spectral noise were obtained. A mean over 25 noise measures per test production (from 100 to 2600 Hz) served as an index of the spectral noise level (SNL) for each vowel sample. The major finding in the study was that the MRR and the SNL for productions of both test vowels diminished significantly across vocal registers, from fry, to modal, to falsetto.", "PMID": 438364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4031", "title": "The relevance of body motion cues to both functional and dysfunctional communicative behavior.", "content": "This study assessed the extent ot which a speaker's visible, spontaneous body movements can contribute to the speech process. An experiment was conducted where subjects responded to videotaped verbal stimuli in one of three conditions (audiovisual, audiovisual without lip and facial cues, and audio alone) over four signal-to-noise ratios. The results indicated that: (1) visual cues can at times significantly improve comprehension scores, even with lip-facial cues not present; (2) visual cues significantly retard decay of comprehension as noise is increasingly introduced; (3) visual cues assist the comprehension of certain types of verbal segments, regardless of the information content expressed in those types of segments. A model of the bimodal aspect of the speech process is developed which illustrates both the cognitive and message-content dimensions. Possible future applications and research objectives are discussed in terms of normal and dysfunctional communicative behavior.", "contents": "The relevance of body motion cues to both functional and dysfunctional communicative behavior. This study assessed the extent ot which a speaker's visible, spontaneous body movements can contribute to the speech process. An experiment was conducted where subjects responded to videotaped verbal stimuli in one of three conditions (audiovisual, audiovisual without lip and facial cues, and audio alone) over four signal-to-noise ratios. The results indicated that: (1) visual cues can at times significantly improve comprehension scores, even with lip-facial cues not present; (2) visual cues significantly retard decay of comprehension as noise is increasingly introduced; (3) visual cues assist the comprehension of certain types of verbal segments, regardless of the information content expressed in those types of segments. A model of the bimodal aspect of the speech process is developed which illustrates both the cognitive and message-content dimensions. Possible future applications and research objectives are discussed in terms of normal and dysfunctional communicative behavior.", "PMID": 438365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4032", "title": "The morphology of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice.", "content": "The morphology of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice has been studied in Nissl, myelin, Golgi, Timm's sulfide silver and gold chloride-sublimate preparations. It is evident from both cell-and fiber-stained sections that despite the obvious defect in the positioning of the hippocampal pyramidal and dentate granule cells in the reeler mouse within the radial dimension, the hippocampal formation as a whole shows a normal and consistent progression of cytoarchitectonic fields along its transverse axis, and a normal and consistent progression of changes in the structure of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus along their longitudinal axes. Thus, at least in these structures, the reeler gene seems to exert its effect only in the radial dimension. Cell counts in the area dentata indicate that the number of dentate granule cells in the reeler mouse is reduced compared to that found in normal or heterozygous animals. Although it has been known for some time that the number of granule cells in the reeler cerebellar cortex is markedly reduced, this appears to be the first evidence for a reduction in cell number in a forebrain structure. All the major cell types normally found in the hippocampus and the dentate gyrus are recognizable in Golgi-stained preparations from the brains of reeler mutants. However, in both regions there are a number of abnormalities in the appearance of the cells which seem to be related to the cellular ectopia. Thus, whereas most of the pyramidal and granule cells which attain a normal position in the mutant usually have normal, or near-normal dendritic arbors, the dendrites of nearly all ectopic cells are severely distorted, both in their orientation and general configuration. In preparations stained by the Timm's sulfide silver technique it is evident that the general lamination pattern seen in normal mice is retained in the reeler hippocampus and dentate gyrus despite the gross malpositioning of many of the relevant neurons. However, although the overall laminar arrangement is preserved, there are some fairly consistent abnormalities; for example, the normal trilaminar staining pattern seen in the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus is replaced in the reeler by a bilaminar pattern. In gold chloride-sublimate impregnated preparations there is no obvious alignment of the astrocytes in the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus in either normal or reeler mice. Moreover, the distribution of the astrocytes within this zone is fairly normal in the reeler mouse, although, in general, these cells appear to be more consistently stellate in form than in normal animals.", "contents": "The morphology of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice. The morphology of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice has been studied in Nissl, myelin, Golgi, Timm's sulfide silver and gold chloride-sublimate preparations. It is evident from both cell-and fiber-stained sections that despite the obvious defect in the positioning of the hippocampal pyramidal and dentate granule cells in the reeler mouse within the radial dimension, the hippocampal formation as a whole shows a normal and consistent progression of cytoarchitectonic fields along its transverse axis, and a normal and consistent progression of changes in the structure of the hippocampus and dentate gyrus along their longitudinal axes. Thus, at least in these structures, the reeler gene seems to exert its effect only in the radial dimension. Cell counts in the area dentata indicate that the number of dentate granule cells in the reeler mouse is reduced compared to that found in normal or heterozygous animals. Although it has been known for some time that the number of granule cells in the reeler cerebellar cortex is markedly reduced, this appears to be the first evidence for a reduction in cell number in a forebrain structure. All the major cell types normally found in the hippocampus and the dentate gyrus are recognizable in Golgi-stained preparations from the brains of reeler mutants. However, in both regions there are a number of abnormalities in the appearance of the cells which seem to be related to the cellular ectopia. Thus, whereas most of the pyramidal and granule cells which attain a normal position in the mutant usually have normal, or near-normal dendritic arbors, the dendrites of nearly all ectopic cells are severely distorted, both in their orientation and general configuration. In preparations stained by the Timm's sulfide silver technique it is evident that the general lamination pattern seen in normal mice is retained in the reeler hippocampus and dentate gyrus despite the gross malpositioning of many of the relevant neurons. However, although the overall laminar arrangement is preserved, there are some fairly consistent abnormalities; for example, the normal trilaminar staining pattern seen in the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus is replaced in the reeler by a bilaminar pattern. In gold chloride-sublimate impregnated preparations there is no obvious alignment of the astrocytes in the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus in either normal or reeler mice. Moreover, the distribution of the astrocytes within this zone is fairly normal in the reeler mouse, although, in general, these cells appear to be more consistently stellate in form than in normal animals.", "PMID": 438366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4033", "title": "The organization of certain afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice.", "content": "The organization of certain of the major afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus has been studied in normal and reeler mutant mice using the autoradiographic and the anterograde degeneration methods. The distribution of the hippocampal and dentate afferents which arise in the medial and lateral parts of the entorhinal cortex and the hippocampus of both sides, has been found to be generally similar to that previously described in the rat, but there are a few minor differences that are discussed in the text. Despite the marked ectopia of many of the neurons in the hippocampal formation in the reeler mouse, the principal afferents to the hippocampus and the dentate gyrus maintain many of the features seen in normal mice. In particular, they maintain a normal radial sequence and a characteristic laminated and complementary arrangement. However, there are a number of significant differences in their distribution; for example, in the reeler mouse, the entorhinal afferents occupy the entire radial extent of the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus, whereas in normal mice they are restricted to the outer four-fifths of this layer. Furthermore, in the mutant the commissural and associational afferents to the dentate gyrus do not occupy the inner one-fifth of the molecular layer (as they do in normal animals) but rather are spread throughout the zone containing granule cells, which includes both the poorly-defined stratum granulosum and most of the hilar region of the dentate gyrus. Some of the developmental and functional implications of these and other abnormalities in the organization of the afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus are discussed.", "contents": "The organization of certain afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus in normal and reeler mice. The organization of certain of the major afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus has been studied in normal and reeler mutant mice using the autoradiographic and the anterograde degeneration methods. The distribution of the hippocampal and dentate afferents which arise in the medial and lateral parts of the entorhinal cortex and the hippocampus of both sides, has been found to be generally similar to that previously described in the rat, but there are a few minor differences that are discussed in the text. Despite the marked ectopia of many of the neurons in the hippocampal formation in the reeler mouse, the principal afferents to the hippocampus and the dentate gyrus maintain many of the features seen in normal mice. In particular, they maintain a normal radial sequence and a characteristic laminated and complementary arrangement. However, there are a number of significant differences in their distribution; for example, in the reeler mouse, the entorhinal afferents occupy the entire radial extent of the stratum moleculare of the dentate gyrus, whereas in normal mice they are restricted to the outer four-fifths of this layer. Furthermore, in the mutant the commissural and associational afferents to the dentate gyrus do not occupy the inner one-fifth of the molecular layer (as they do in normal animals) but rather are spread throughout the zone containing granule cells, which includes both the poorly-defined stratum granulosum and most of the hilar region of the dentate gyrus. Some of the developmental and functional implications of these and other abnormalities in the organization of the afferents to the hippocampus and dentate gyrus are discussed.", "PMID": 438367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4034", "title": "The morphological and physiological properties of a regenerating synapse in the C.N.S. of the leech.", "content": "Regeneration of an electrical synapse between particular interneurons in the medicinal leech was traced physiologically and morphologically using intracellular recording the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) injection. The synapse between S-cell interneurons lies in the connective midway between segmental ganglia, so crushing near one ganglion severs only one S-cell's axon. The severed distal stump remains connected to the adjacent uninjured S-cell and continues for weeks to conduct impulses. The injured cell regenerates, while its uninjured \"target\" neuron in the next ganglion does not grow. After the sprouts of the regenerating neuron cross the crush, one or a few branches grow along the surviving distal stump toward the original synapse. After about one month when the region of original synapse has been reached, regenerating neurons form electrical junctions and stop growing. Thereafter electrical coupling improves in stages. Within two months the regenerated neuron attains full caliber, the stump degenerates and function is normal. In some instances within days or weeks of crushing, the regenerating neuron forms a basket of synapses upon its severed distal stump and then continues growing to synapse with the target. When this occurs, electrical coupling and subsequent impulse transmission between S-cells rapidly resumes. These experiments indicated that the regenerating neuron is guided to its proper synaptic target by recognizing and following its severed distal stump. Sometimes the distal stump itself becomes an intermediate synaptic target.", "contents": "The morphological and physiological properties of a regenerating synapse in the C.N.S. of the leech. Regeneration of an electrical synapse between particular interneurons in the medicinal leech was traced physiologically and morphologically using intracellular recording the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) injection. The synapse between S-cell interneurons lies in the connective midway between segmental ganglia, so crushing near one ganglion severs only one S-cell's axon. The severed distal stump remains connected to the adjacent uninjured S-cell and continues for weeks to conduct impulses. The injured cell regenerates, while its uninjured \"target\" neuron in the next ganglion does not grow. After the sprouts of the regenerating neuron cross the crush, one or a few branches grow along the surviving distal stump toward the original synapse. After about one month when the region of original synapse has been reached, regenerating neurons form electrical junctions and stop growing. Thereafter electrical coupling improves in stages. Within two months the regenerated neuron attains full caliber, the stump degenerates and function is normal. In some instances within days or weeks of crushing, the regenerating neuron forms a basket of synapses upon its severed distal stump and then continues growing to synapse with the target. When this occurs, electrical coupling and subsequent impulse transmission between S-cells rapidly resumes. These experiments indicated that the regenerating neuron is guided to its proper synaptic target by recognizing and following its severed distal stump. Sometimes the distal stump itself becomes an intermediate synaptic target.", "PMID": 438368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4035", "title": "Opening of tight junctions in cerebral endothelium. I. Effect of hyperosmolar mannitol infused through the internal carotid artery.", "content": "Infusion of 1.8 M mannitol solution into the internal carotid artery of Wistar rats allows horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to cross cerebral vascular endothelium via intercellular pathways. This was made evident by density gradients of HRP observed in consecutive tight junctional compartments following in vivo administration, and by the passage of colloidal lanthanum through junctional membrane appositions of glutaraldehyde fixed cerebral endothelium. Three hours after mannitol infusion, small non-capillary vascular segments were still focally permeable to HRP. Twenty-four hours after the osmotic insult, the tracer was absent in the affected hemisphere. Water and electrolyte assays indicated absence of brain edema during the period of observation of blood-brain barrier opening.", "contents": "Opening of tight junctions in cerebral endothelium. I. Effect of hyperosmolar mannitol infused through the internal carotid artery. Infusion of 1.8 M mannitol solution into the internal carotid artery of Wistar rats allows horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to cross cerebral vascular endothelium via intercellular pathways. This was made evident by density gradients of HRP observed in consecutive tight junctional compartments following in vivo administration, and by the passage of colloidal lanthanum through junctional membrane appositions of glutaraldehyde fixed cerebral endothelium. Three hours after mannitol infusion, small non-capillary vascular segments were still focally permeable to HRP. Twenty-four hours after the osmotic insult, the tracer was absent in the affected hemisphere. Water and electrolyte assays indicated absence of brain edema during the period of observation of blood-brain barrier opening.", "PMID": 438370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4036", "title": "Opening of tight junctions in cerebral endothelium. II. Effect of pressure-pulse induced acute arterial hypertension.", "content": "Acute arterial hypertension was produced in male Wistar rats by pressure pulse through the right internal carotid artery. The pressure pulse was induced by infusion of physiological saline as a bolus, at a rate of 0.63 ml per second by syringe pump. Evans blue (Eb) was used to visualize the areas of blood-brain barrier opening. Intravenously injected horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to study the ultrastructural basis of permeability changes in cerebral endothelium. Eb outlined circumscribed areas of blood-brain barrier opening. HRP extravasation was found mainly around small arteries. The capillary network was affected to a much lesser extent. Electron microscopy showed that HRP crossed the endothelial cell layer by intercellular routes. Glutaraldehyde fixed brain samples permeated with colloidal lanthanum supported these observations.", "contents": "Opening of tight junctions in cerebral endothelium. II. Effect of pressure-pulse induced acute arterial hypertension. Acute arterial hypertension was produced in male Wistar rats by pressure pulse through the right internal carotid artery. The pressure pulse was induced by infusion of physiological saline as a bolus, at a rate of 0.63 ml per second by syringe pump. Evans blue (Eb) was used to visualize the areas of blood-brain barrier opening. Intravenously injected horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to study the ultrastructural basis of permeability changes in cerebral endothelium. Eb outlined circumscribed areas of blood-brain barrier opening. HRP extravasation was found mainly around small arteries. The capillary network was affected to a much lesser extent. Electron microscopy showed that HRP crossed the endothelial cell layer by intercellular routes. Glutaraldehyde fixed brain samples permeated with colloidal lanthanum supported these observations.", "PMID": 438371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4037", "title": "Quantitation in positron emission computed tomography: 1. Effect of object size.", "content": "The effect of object size on the capability of positron emission computed tomography to measure isotope concentrations in a cross section was studied. The relationship between the apparent isotope concentration in an image and the true concentration was measured as a function of object size for three instrument resolutions and four convolution filters. The relationship between image size and object size was also measured under the same conditions. Depression of apparent isotope concentration in an image for objects equal in size to the instrument resolution (FWHM) was significant (50% for a cylinder and 25% for a bar). For objects larger than 1.0 FWHM, accurate object sizes can be estimated from the images. Thus, reasonably accurate and practical schemes of compensation for object size effects can be implemented for objects larger than 1.0 FWHM. Accuracy in quantitating isotope concentrations in smaller objects is seriously compromised by the loss of sensitivity to the object size and the large correction factors required to compensate for instrument response. The results of the measurements were found to be in good agreement with theoretical predictions for ideal systems of comparable resolution.", "contents": "Quantitation in positron emission computed tomography: 1. Effect of object size. The effect of object size on the capability of positron emission computed tomography to measure isotope concentrations in a cross section was studied. The relationship between the apparent isotope concentration in an image and the true concentration was measured as a function of object size for three instrument resolutions and four convolution filters. The relationship between image size and object size was also measured under the same conditions. Depression of apparent isotope concentration in an image for objects equal in size to the instrument resolution (FWHM) was significant (50% for a cylinder and 25% for a bar). For objects larger than 1.0 FWHM, accurate object sizes can be estimated from the images. Thus, reasonably accurate and practical schemes of compensation for object size effects can be implemented for objects larger than 1.0 FWHM. Accuracy in quantitating isotope concentrations in smaller objects is seriously compromised by the loss of sensitivity to the object size and the large correction factors required to compensate for instrument response. The results of the measurements were found to be in good agreement with theoretical predictions for ideal systems of comparable resolution.", "PMID": 438372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4038", "title": "Sphenoidal mucoceles with intracranial extension.", "content": "Two cases of sphenoid sinus mucocele with intracranial extension are presented. Multiplanar computed tomography scans delineated the extent of these lesions, facilitating both preoperative diagnosis and proper clinical management. One lesion was isodense and the other hyperdense (98 Hounsfield units: 1,000 scale). Neither demonstrated significant enhancement after the administration of contrast medium.", "contents": "Sphenoidal mucoceles with intracranial extension. Two cases of sphenoid sinus mucocele with intracranial extension are presented. Multiplanar computed tomography scans delineated the extent of these lesions, facilitating both preoperative diagnosis and proper clinical management. One lesion was isodense and the other hyperdense (98 Hounsfield units: 1,000 scale). Neither demonstrated significant enhancement after the administration of contrast medium.", "PMID": 438373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4039", "title": "Incidence of basal ganglia calcifications on computed tomography.", "content": "In a group of 3,800 computed tomography examinations, 14 patients (0.4%) were found to have high attenuating lesions suggesting calcifications within the basal ganglia. The lesions were bilateral in all patients. A majority of the patients had psychic symptoms and convulsions. Electroencephalographic changes were frequent and extrapyramidal symptoms occurred. Until now only three patients have been endocrinologically examined. One of them had hypoparathyroidism. Since parathyroid dysfunction frequently is associated with calcifications of the basal ganglia, these patients should be referred for endocrinological evaluation.", "contents": "Incidence of basal ganglia calcifications on computed tomography. In a group of 3,800 computed tomography examinations, 14 patients (0.4%) were found to have high attenuating lesions suggesting calcifications within the basal ganglia. The lesions were bilateral in all patients. A majority of the patients had psychic symptoms and convulsions. Electroencephalographic changes were frequent and extrapyramidal symptoms occurred. Until now only three patients have been endocrinologically examined. One of them had hypoparathyroidism. Since parathyroid dysfunction frequently is associated with calcifications of the basal ganglia, these patients should be referred for endocrinological evaluation.", "PMID": 438374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4040", "title": "Visualization of the longitudinal fold of the duodenum by computed tomography.", "content": "The longitudinal fold of the duodenum can be visualized by computed tomography (CT). Visualization of the fold helps localize the hepatopancreatic duct entrance into the duodenum. Many pathological processes of the head of the pancreas such as pancreatitis or malignancy can produce swelling involving the longitudinal fold, which can be visualized by CT.", "contents": "Visualization of the longitudinal fold of the duodenum by computed tomography. The longitudinal fold of the duodenum can be visualized by computed tomography (CT). Visualization of the fold helps localize the hepatopancreatic duct entrance into the duodenum. Many pathological processes of the head of the pancreas such as pancreatitis or malignancy can produce swelling involving the longitudinal fold, which can be visualized by CT.", "PMID": 438375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4041", "title": "The right posterolateral tracheal band.", "content": "Changes in the right posterolateral tracheal band and the right retrotracheal recess are reliable parameters for evaluating pathology in the right superior mediastinum. We have measured the posterolateral tracheal band at the sternal notch and 2 cm below the sternal notch in computed tomograms. At the sternal notch, the average thickness was 8.4 +/- 3.8 mm. At the level 2 cm below the sternal notch, the posterolateral band was 6.4 +/- 1.8 mm. This represents measurements from 100 normal patients. Pathology in the lungs, pleura, esophagus, soft tissues, and other mediastinal structures can clearly affect the posterolateral tracheal band, causing abnormal contours and widening of the band.", "contents": "The right posterolateral tracheal band. Changes in the right posterolateral tracheal band and the right retrotracheal recess are reliable parameters for evaluating pathology in the right superior mediastinum. We have measured the posterolateral tracheal band at the sternal notch and 2 cm below the sternal notch in computed tomograms. At the sternal notch, the average thickness was 8.4 +/- 3.8 mm. At the level 2 cm below the sternal notch, the posterolateral band was 6.4 +/- 1.8 mm. This represents measurements from 100 normal patients. Pathology in the lungs, pleura, esophagus, soft tissues, and other mediastinal structures can clearly affect the posterolateral tracheal band, causing abnormal contours and widening of the band.", "PMID": 438376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4042", "title": "The subtrapezial space.", "content": "The subtrapezial space as it is depicted on computed tomography scans of patients positioned with their arms above their heads is described and illustrated. Knowledge of the outline and contents of this area is useful in the recognition of enlarged lymph nodes.", "contents": "The subtrapezial space. The subtrapezial space as it is depicted on computed tomography scans of patients positioned with their arms above their heads is described and illustrated. Knowledge of the outline and contents of this area is useful in the recognition of enlarged lymph nodes.", "PMID": 438377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4043", "title": "Diving-type injury of the cervical spine: contribution of computed tomography to management.", "content": "We have utilized computed tomography (CT) in addition to conventional radiography for evaluation and as a guide to management of serious diving injuries to the cervical spine. This technique has proven to be invaluable in the initial assessment and further clinical management of this type of injury. A classification of these injuries and associated fractures is presented based on CT appearance. Representative cases are presented comparing standard radiography and CT.", "contents": "Diving-type injury of the cervical spine: contribution of computed tomography to management. We have utilized computed tomography (CT) in addition to conventional radiography for evaluation and as a guide to management of serious diving injuries to the cervical spine. This technique has proven to be invaluable in the initial assessment and further clinical management of this type of injury. A classification of these injuries and associated fractures is presented based on CT appearance. Representative cases are presented comparing standard radiography and CT.", "PMID": 438378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4044", "title": "Demonstration of beam hardening correction in computed tomography of the head.", "content": "The efficacy of a method of removing artifacts due to beam hardening in computed tomography of the human head is demonstrated on a realistic, mathematically described phantom. An efficient implementation is discussed.", "contents": "Demonstration of beam hardening correction in computed tomography of the head. The efficacy of a method of removing artifacts due to beam hardening in computed tomography of the human head is demonstrated on a realistic, mathematically described phantom. An efficient implementation is discussed.", "PMID": 438379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4045", "title": "Utilization of cross-plane rays for three-dimensional reconstruction by filtered back-projection.", "content": "Present popular computed tomography (CT) algorithms reconstruct an object from the ray measurements lying on a set of parallel planes. This paper presents an algorithm that can also utilize \"cross-plane\" rays (i.e., rays that cross through many planes) to reconstruct the object. In this reconstruction algorithm, the ray measurements are grouped into two-dimensional projections, filtered, and stored. The filtered projections can then be back-projected onto a three-dimensional matrix or any plane through the three-dimensional volume. General theoretical aspects are presented and then applied to the special case in which ray measurements have been made in all directions. The algorithm is tested using computer-generated data. Expressions for the noise power spectrum and the variance in the reconstruction are derived. It is shown that the noise-to-signal ratio per detected photon for this reconstruction method is close to a theoretical limit, as it also is for normal CT. The ability to use ray measurements that cross many planes is especially useful in emission CT, where order-of-magnitude improvements in image quality per unit dose can be achieved.", "contents": "Utilization of cross-plane rays for three-dimensional reconstruction by filtered back-projection. Present popular computed tomography (CT) algorithms reconstruct an object from the ray measurements lying on a set of parallel planes. This paper presents an algorithm that can also utilize \"cross-plane\" rays (i.e., rays that cross through many planes) to reconstruct the object. In this reconstruction algorithm, the ray measurements are grouped into two-dimensional projections, filtered, and stored. The filtered projections can then be back-projected onto a three-dimensional matrix or any plane through the three-dimensional volume. General theoretical aspects are presented and then applied to the special case in which ray measurements have been made in all directions. The algorithm is tested using computer-generated data. Expressions for the noise power spectrum and the variance in the reconstruction are derived. It is shown that the noise-to-signal ratio per detected photon for this reconstruction method is close to a theoretical limit, as it also is for normal CT. The ability to use ray measurements that cross many planes is especially useful in emission CT, where order-of-magnitude improvements in image quality per unit dose can be achieved.", "PMID": 438380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4046", "title": "Sarcoidosis of the central nervous system.", "content": "A case of central nervous system sarcoidosis verified by direct biopsy and skin tests and without evidence of any other system involvement is reported. The computed tomography findings are described in detail.", "contents": "Sarcoidosis of the central nervous system. A case of central nervous system sarcoidosis verified by direct biopsy and skin tests and without evidence of any other system involvement is reported. The computed tomography findings are described in detail.", "PMID": 438381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4047", "title": "Computed tomography changes in neurosarcoidosis clearing with steroid treatment.", "content": "Contrast enhancement computed tomography (CT) in a patient with central nervous system (CNS) sarcoidosis revealed increased densities particularly in the frontal and temporal areas. Treatment with prednisone improved the condition, and the CT abnormality disappeared. These previously undescribed findings can be of help in establishing the diagnosis and in following the patient's response to treatment.", "contents": "Computed tomography changes in neurosarcoidosis clearing with steroid treatment. Contrast enhancement computed tomography (CT) in a patient with central nervous system (CNS) sarcoidosis revealed increased densities particularly in the frontal and temporal areas. Treatment with prednisone improved the condition, and the CT abnormality disappeared. These previously undescribed findings can be of help in establishing the diagnosis and in following the patient's response to treatment.", "PMID": 438382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4048", "title": "Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia into the pericardium: verification of diagnosis by computed tomography.", "content": "Computed tomography (CT) is a useful modality in the evaluation of mediastinal abnormalities and in the assessment of mediastinal masses for fat content. A case of posttraumatic herniation of the omentum and large bowel into the pericardial sac is presented. The mediastinal configuration, depicted on a CT scan, is thought to be diagnostic of this extremely rare abnormality.", "contents": "Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia into the pericardium: verification of diagnosis by computed tomography. Computed tomography (CT) is a useful modality in the evaluation of mediastinal abnormalities and in the assessment of mediastinal masses for fat content. A case of posttraumatic herniation of the omentum and large bowel into the pericardial sac is presented. The mediastinal configuration, depicted on a CT scan, is thought to be diagnostic of this extremely rare abnormality.", "PMID": 438383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4049", "title": "Intrathoracic kidney.", "content": "An asymptomatic, posterior mediastinal mass first appeared in a routine chest X-ray film of a 43-year-old woman. Computed tomography (CT) permitted the diagnosis of intrathoracic kidney to be advanced. Intravenous urography confirmed the CT diagnosis.", "contents": "Intrathoracic kidney. An asymptomatic, posterior mediastinal mass first appeared in a routine chest X-ray film of a 43-year-old woman. Computed tomography (CT) permitted the diagnosis of intrathoracic kidney to be advanced. Intravenous urography confirmed the CT diagnosis.", "PMID": 438384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4050", "title": "Computed tomography in preoperative diagnosis of conjoined twins.", "content": "A case of thoracoomphalopagus twins diagnosed preoperatively by computed tomography is described.", "contents": "Computed tomography in preoperative diagnosis of conjoined twins. A case of thoracoomphalopagus twins diagnosed preoperatively by computed tomography is described.", "PMID": 438385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4051", "title": "Cerebral toxoplasmosis in the adult.", "content": "We report a case of cerebral toxoplasmosis in an adult patient. The diagnosis was established by demonstration of Toxoplasma gondii in the cerebrospinal fluid, and the patient was evaluated by computed tomography.", "contents": "Cerebral toxoplasmosis in the adult. We report a case of cerebral toxoplasmosis in an adult patient. The diagnosis was established by demonstration of Toxoplasma gondii in the cerebrospinal fluid, and the patient was evaluated by computed tomography.", "PMID": 438386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4052", "title": "Cerebral phycomycosis.", "content": "The incidence of phycomycotic infections of the central nervous system (CNS) remains high in diabetic and immunosuppressed patients. Despite increasing awareness of possible CNS fungal infections, the diagnosis during life remains difficult and is most often made at postmortem examination. The present report describes a histologically confirmed case of cerebral phycomycosis diagnosed in life. The findings on computed tomography as well as other radiological diagnostic procedures are discussed.", "contents": "Cerebral phycomycosis. The incidence of phycomycotic infections of the central nervous system (CNS) remains high in diabetic and immunosuppressed patients. Despite increasing awareness of possible CNS fungal infections, the diagnosis during life remains difficult and is most often made at postmortem examination. The present report describes a histologically confirmed case of cerebral phycomycosis diagnosed in life. The findings on computed tomography as well as other radiological diagnostic procedures are discussed.", "PMID": 438387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4053", "title": "Cervical computed tomography in multiple sclerosis with spinal cord involvement.", "content": "We present the computed tomography findings in a young man with known multiple sclerosis during an acute phase of recrudescence. An enhancing lesion is demonstrated in the brain with a possibly enhancing focus in the spinal cord.", "contents": "Cervical computed tomography in multiple sclerosis with spinal cord involvement. We present the computed tomography findings in a young man with known multiple sclerosis during an acute phase of recrudescence. An enhancing lesion is demonstrated in the brain with a possibly enhancing focus in the spinal cord.", "PMID": 438388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4054", "title": "Receiver operating characteristic curves in the evaluation of hard copies of computed tomography scans.", "content": "Receiver operating characteristic curves have been used to compare a variety of pictures derived from a number of hard copy devices used with EMI computed tomography scanners. The pictures examined were obtained from (a) a Shackman camera with bromide paper, (b) a Polaroid camera and Polaroid film, (c) a Shackman backed camera with radiographic film, and (d) an EMI multiformat imager. The results show no significant difference in detectability of an experimental object close to noise values using the various hard copies. It is concluded that the choice of a hard copy device might be based on considerations other than its physical performance.", "contents": "Receiver operating characteristic curves in the evaluation of hard copies of computed tomography scans. Receiver operating characteristic curves have been used to compare a variety of pictures derived from a number of hard copy devices used with EMI computed tomography scanners. The pictures examined were obtained from (a) a Shackman camera with bromide paper, (b) a Polaroid camera and Polaroid film, (c) a Shackman backed camera with radiographic film, and (d) an EMI multiformat imager. The results show no significant difference in detectability of an experimental object close to noise values using the various hard copies. It is concluded that the choice of a hard copy device might be based on considerations other than its physical performance.", "PMID": 438389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4055", "title": "Early histopathology of the cutaneous capillary fragility test (Rumpel-Leede).", "content": "The characteristic histologic change seen at 2 h in the Rumpel-Leede (Hess) test is, in addition to focal hemorrhage in the upper dermis, a perivascular lymphocyte infiltrate with focal areas of lymphocytic epidermal invasion. The histologic findings, even with the liquefaction degeneration, are similar to those of purpura simplex and indicate that, early in many forms of vasopermeability, the lymphocyte may be a primary inflammatory cell.", "contents": "Early histopathology of the cutaneous capillary fragility test (Rumpel-Leede). The characteristic histologic change seen at 2 h in the Rumpel-Leede (Hess) test is, in addition to focal hemorrhage in the upper dermis, a perivascular lymphocyte infiltrate with focal areas of lymphocytic epidermal invasion. The histologic findings, even with the liquefaction degeneration, are similar to those of purpura simplex and indicate that, early in many forms of vasopermeability, the lymphocyte may be a primary inflammatory cell.", "PMID": 438390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4056", "title": "Pitted keratolysis (keratolysis plantare sulcatum). Ultrastructural study.", "content": "Biopsies from typical lesions of pitted keratolysis from five patients have been investigated by electron microscopy to provide information on colonization and morphology of the microorganisms involved in this disease. A part of the biopsies was inoculated in culture media, and Corynebacteria were selected for further examination. Electron microscopy revealed a great variability in the morphologic feature of bacteria concerning size, shape, capsule, cell wall, cross wall formation, plasma membrane, nucleoplasm, cytoplasmic organelles and constituents including mesosomes, ribosomes, volutin granules, and glycogen particles. The pleomorphism is thought to be due in part to the diversity of preparation techniques used in this study and in part to different growth conditions in vivo and in vitro. As a consequence the present findings are only partly comparable with previously published data on bacteria involved in skin diseases. Evidence is presented that bacteria inducing pitted keratolysis may be able to destroy keratin by means of hydrolytic enzymatic activity.", "contents": "Pitted keratolysis (keratolysis plantare sulcatum). Ultrastructural study. Biopsies from typical lesions of pitted keratolysis from five patients have been investigated by electron microscopy to provide information on colonization and morphology of the microorganisms involved in this disease. A part of the biopsies was inoculated in culture media, and Corynebacteria were selected for further examination. Electron microscopy revealed a great variability in the morphologic feature of bacteria concerning size, shape, capsule, cell wall, cross wall formation, plasma membrane, nucleoplasm, cytoplasmic organelles and constituents including mesosomes, ribosomes, volutin granules, and glycogen particles. The pleomorphism is thought to be due in part to the diversity of preparation techniques used in this study and in part to different growth conditions in vivo and in vitro. As a consequence the present findings are only partly comparable with previously published data on bacteria involved in skin diseases. Evidence is presented that bacteria inducing pitted keratolysis may be able to destroy keratin by means of hydrolytic enzymatic activity.", "PMID": 438391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4057", "title": "Systemic mastocytosis and the mastocytosis syndrome.", "content": "A patient with extensive systemic mastocytosis and the mastocytosis syndrome was studied by light and electron microscopy. Mast cell proliferation was found in the bone marrow, the liver, spleen and lymph node. In addition, the patient had telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans and elevated histamine levels.", "contents": "Systemic mastocytosis and the mastocytosis syndrome. A patient with extensive systemic mastocytosis and the mastocytosis syndrome was studied by light and electron microscopy. Mast cell proliferation was found in the bone marrow, the liver, spleen and lymph node. In addition, the patient had telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans and elevated histamine levels.", "PMID": 438392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4058", "title": "Skin storage in liquid nitrogen. An ultrastructural investigation.", "content": "The problem of cell survival as well as the biochemical and histological effects on skin of low temperature storage in liquid nitrogen has already received attention. However, little is known of the submicroscopic alterations induced by such treatment. Our study shows that rapid or slow freezing, direct or mediate contact with the liquid nitrogen, pretreatment before freezing, type and concentration of cryoprotectants, all have various effects on the fine morphology of epidermal cells. Glycerol is shown as having better cryoprotective activity than DMSO at concentrations of 15% or less. Our data are examined taking into account all available reports on the problem of cryopreservation and the use of cryoprotectants.", "contents": "Skin storage in liquid nitrogen. An ultrastructural investigation. The problem of cell survival as well as the biochemical and histological effects on skin of low temperature storage in liquid nitrogen has already received attention. However, little is known of the submicroscopic alterations induced by such treatment. Our study shows that rapid or slow freezing, direct or mediate contact with the liquid nitrogen, pretreatment before freezing, type and concentration of cryoprotectants, all have various effects on the fine morphology of epidermal cells. Glycerol is shown as having better cryoprotective activity than DMSO at concentrations of 15% or less. Our data are examined taking into account all available reports on the problem of cryopreservation and the use of cryoprotectants.", "PMID": 438393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4059", "title": "The dermal component in melanosis naeviformis Becker.", "content": "Histological investigations were performed in 11 subjects suffering from melanosis naeviformis Becker. Apart from the well-known epidermal alterations such as basal hyperpigmentation, slight acanthosis and growth of coarse hair, dermal changes were found in each case. The dermis was considerably thickened and contained numerous small and/or large bundles of smooth muscle without relation to cutaneous adnexa. Thus, melanosis naeviformis Becker can be considered an organoid nevus with epidermal, melanocytic and dermal components.", "contents": "The dermal component in melanosis naeviformis Becker. Histological investigations were performed in 11 subjects suffering from melanosis naeviformis Becker. Apart from the well-known epidermal alterations such as basal hyperpigmentation, slight acanthosis and growth of coarse hair, dermal changes were found in each case. The dermis was considerably thickened and contained numerous small and/or large bundles of smooth muscle without relation to cutaneous adnexa. Thus, melanosis naeviformis Becker can be considered an organoid nevus with epidermal, melanocytic and dermal components.", "PMID": 438394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4060", "title": "Lichenoid delayed hypersensitivity reactions in tattoos.", "content": "Two patients with an inflammatory reaction in a red tattoo had histopathologic changes of lichen planus. The lesions demonstrated a lymphocytic bandlike infiltrate, liquefaction degeneration, acanthosis, hypergranulosis, and orthokeratosis and many hyaline bodies. Metal particles were observed in the region of the dermal-epidermal reaction. This probably is another example of the lichenoid reaction produced by delayed cellular hypersensitivity.", "contents": "Lichenoid delayed hypersensitivity reactions in tattoos. Two patients with an inflammatory reaction in a red tattoo had histopathologic changes of lichen planus. The lesions demonstrated a lymphocytic bandlike infiltrate, liquefaction degeneration, acanthosis, hypergranulosis, and orthokeratosis and many hyaline bodies. Metal particles were observed in the region of the dermal-epidermal reaction. This probably is another example of the lichenoid reaction produced by delayed cellular hypersensitivity.", "PMID": 438395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4061", "title": "Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann's disease with interstitial pneumonitis.", "content": "A case of febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann's is presented. This disorder is a severe form of pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) characterized by the sudden eruption of diffuse coalescent ulcerations associated with high fever. In the present case the disease was preceded by the milder typical form of PLEVA. Histologically a leukocytoclastic vasculitis was seen in addition to the usual lymphocytic perivascular and lichenoid infiltrate. During the course of the disease the patient developed an interstitial pneumonitis which resolved concomitantly with the cutaneous lesions. Adenovirus type II recovered at the height of the illness from the patient's urine may have etiologic implications in the pathogenesis of the disease.", "contents": "Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann's disease with interstitial pneumonitis. A case of febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann's is presented. This disorder is a severe form of pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) characterized by the sudden eruption of diffuse coalescent ulcerations associated with high fever. In the present case the disease was preceded by the milder typical form of PLEVA. Histologically a leukocytoclastic vasculitis was seen in addition to the usual lymphocytic perivascular and lichenoid infiltrate. During the course of the disease the patient developed an interstitial pneumonitis which resolved concomitantly with the cutaneous lesions. Adenovirus type II recovered at the height of the illness from the patient's urine may have etiologic implications in the pathogenesis of the disease.", "PMID": 438396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4062", "title": "Chromomycosis. Successful treatment with 5-fluorocytosine.", "content": "A case of chromomycosis, caused by Fonsecaea pedrosoi, was treated with 5-fluorocytosine. After 18 weeks of treatment the initial lesions had largely resolved, and no evidence of active disease was observed clinically, histologically or from fungal cultures of the biopsy material. Further resolution of the remaining hypertrophic scar was achieved by intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide. Minimal side-effects were encountered during the therapy, and no recurrence during an 18-month follow-up period was observed. The results of this study indicate that 5-fluorocytosine is an effective and relatively safe mode of therapy in chromomycosis.", "contents": "Chromomycosis. Successful treatment with 5-fluorocytosine. A case of chromomycosis, caused by Fonsecaea pedrosoi, was treated with 5-fluorocytosine. After 18 weeks of treatment the initial lesions had largely resolved, and no evidence of active disease was observed clinically, histologically or from fungal cultures of the biopsy material. Further resolution of the remaining hypertrophic scar was achieved by intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide. Minimal side-effects were encountered during the therapy, and no recurrence during an 18-month follow-up period was observed. The results of this study indicate that 5-fluorocytosine is an effective and relatively safe mode of therapy in chromomycosis.", "PMID": 438397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4063", "title": "Separation of a guanine nucleotide regulatory unit from the adenylate cyclase complex with GTP affinity chromatography.", "content": "We studied the relationship between guanine nucleotide binding proteins and adenylate cyclase activity of solubilized turkey erythrocyte membranes with GTP affinity chromatography. Solubilized adenylate cyclase from untreated membranes or membranes pretreated with GMP only (GMP prep) responded poorly to GTP or Gpp(NH)p but were markedly stimulated by fluoride. The solubilized enzyme from membranes pretreated with isoproterenol+GMP (ISO+GMP prep) did not respond to GTP but was markedly stimulated by Gpp(NH)p. Fluoride-stimulated activity of the ISO+GMP prep was reduced by comparison with the GMP prep but could be increased significantly by addition of GTP. GTP hexane agarose (GTP linked to matrix via morpholine derivative of ribose) failed to interact specifically with either the GMP or ISO+GMP prep. Incubation of ISO+GMP prep with GTP-gamma-agarose (GTP linked to matrix via terminal phosphate) reduced the Gpp(NH)p response and the GTP-dependent fraction of the fluoride response. GTP-gamma-agarose did not reduce the fluoride response of the GMP prep. Following incubation with ISO+GMP prep, GTP-gamma-agarose beads were eluted with buffer containing Gpp(NH)p. The eluate had only slight intrinsic adenylate cyclase activity but was able to increase significantly the activity of GTP-gamma-agarose-treated ISO+GMP prep as well as untreated GMP prep. An eluate from GTP-gamma-agarose beads incubated with GMP prep did not possess activity. Our results suggest that the guanine nucleotide-regulatory unit is reversibly associated with the adenylate cyclase complex of turkey erythrocyte membranes.", "contents": "Separation of a guanine nucleotide regulatory unit from the adenylate cyclase complex with GTP affinity chromatography. We studied the relationship between guanine nucleotide binding proteins and adenylate cyclase activity of solubilized turkey erythrocyte membranes with GTP affinity chromatography. Solubilized adenylate cyclase from untreated membranes or membranes pretreated with GMP only (GMP prep) responded poorly to GTP or Gpp(NH)p but were markedly stimulated by fluoride. The solubilized enzyme from membranes pretreated with isoproterenol+GMP (ISO+GMP prep) did not respond to GTP but was markedly stimulated by Gpp(NH)p. Fluoride-stimulated activity of the ISO+GMP prep was reduced by comparison with the GMP prep but could be increased significantly by addition of GTP. GTP hexane agarose (GTP linked to matrix via morpholine derivative of ribose) failed to interact specifically with either the GMP or ISO+GMP prep. Incubation of ISO+GMP prep with GTP-gamma-agarose (GTP linked to matrix via terminal phosphate) reduced the Gpp(NH)p response and the GTP-dependent fraction of the fluoride response. GTP-gamma-agarose did not reduce the fluoride response of the GMP prep. Following incubation with ISO+GMP prep, GTP-gamma-agarose beads were eluted with buffer containing Gpp(NH)p. The eluate had only slight intrinsic adenylate cyclase activity but was able to increase significantly the activity of GTP-gamma-agarose-treated ISO+GMP prep as well as untreated GMP prep. An eluate from GTP-gamma-agarose beads incubated with GMP prep did not possess activity. Our results suggest that the guanine nucleotide-regulatory unit is reversibly associated with the adenylate cyclase complex of turkey erythrocyte membranes.", "PMID": 438399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4064", "title": "Inhibitory effect of adrenaline on oxytocin release in the ewe during the milk-ejection reflex.", "content": "Milk-ejection activity was determined in the blood plasma of ewes during normal milking and during milking when adrenaline was injected intravenously before or after udder stimulation. It was found that administration of adrenaline either before or after udder washing, decreased the oxytocin concentration and milk yield but increased the yield by hand-stripping. Adrenaline also retards the average time for peak oxytocin concentration. These results and the use of a beta-receptor blocker to inhibit the effect of adrenaline at the myoepithelial cell level indicate that in ewes adrenaline can prevent the release of oxytocin from neurohypophysis.", "contents": "Inhibitory effect of adrenaline on oxytocin release in the ewe during the milk-ejection reflex. Milk-ejection activity was determined in the blood plasma of ewes during normal milking and during milking when adrenaline was injected intravenously before or after udder stimulation. It was found that administration of adrenaline either before or after udder washing, decreased the oxytocin concentration and milk yield but increased the yield by hand-stripping. Adrenaline also retards the average time for peak oxytocin concentration. These results and the use of a beta-receptor blocker to inhibit the effect of adrenaline at the myoepithelial cell level indicate that in ewes adrenaline can prevent the release of oxytocin from neurohypophysis.", "PMID": 438400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4065", "title": "Metabolism of [U-14C; 2,3-3H]-L-valine by the isolated perfused goat udder.", "content": "Two lactating mammary glands excised from 2 goats were perfused for several hours in the presence of [U-14C; 2,3-3H]-L-valine and received adequate quantities of glucose, acetate and amino acids. In the synthesized milk 96 and 89% respectively of the casein valine was derived from free plasma valine. Valine was extensively catabolized by mammary tissue, resulting in a considerable 14CO2 production and in the incorporation of 14C into milk citric acid and to a lesser extent into casein aspartic acid and glutamic acid. About 30% of the valine molecules which were taken up by the mammary gland were oxidized to CO2 and 70% were incorporated in casein as valine residues. About 10% of the plasma valine molecules were reversibly transaminated during one passage through the udder. An important amount of radioactivity of plasma was present in unknown metabolites. Only 7% of this activity was localized in isobutyrate. The radioactivity of total milk fat was very low. Mainly iso-14:0, iso-16:0 and 15:0 were labelled.", "contents": "Metabolism of [U-14C; 2,3-3H]-L-valine by the isolated perfused goat udder. Two lactating mammary glands excised from 2 goats were perfused for several hours in the presence of [U-14C; 2,3-3H]-L-valine and received adequate quantities of glucose, acetate and amino acids. In the synthesized milk 96 and 89% respectively of the casein valine was derived from free plasma valine. Valine was extensively catabolized by mammary tissue, resulting in a considerable 14CO2 production and in the incorporation of 14C into milk citric acid and to a lesser extent into casein aspartic acid and glutamic acid. About 30% of the valine molecules which were taken up by the mammary gland were oxidized to CO2 and 70% were incorporated in casein as valine residues. About 10% of the plasma valine molecules were reversibly transaminated during one passage through the udder. An important amount of radioactivity of plasma was present in unknown metabolites. Only 7% of this activity was localized in isobutyrate. The radioactivity of total milk fat was very low. Mainly iso-14:0, iso-16:0 and 15:0 were labelled.", "PMID": 438401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4066", "title": "Effects of increased supply of essential amino acids on the metabolism of the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland.", "content": "The effects of high rates of infusion of essential amino acids on amino acid uptake by the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland were studied. Infusion of methionine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine and tryptophan (designated group 1) resulted in significant increases in the uptakes of tyrosine, phenylalanine and histidine. Methionine, tryptophan and other essential amino acids were not significantly affected. Infusion of threonine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine and arginine (designated group 2) resulted in significant increases in uptake of all these amino acids. Group 1 amino acid uptake was not significantly affected. Infusion of all the essential amino acids (i.e. groups 1 and 2 together) resulted in significant increases in all their uptakes. Using as index 'the predicted rate of protein synthesis', infusion of group 1 and 2 together led to an apparent 27% increase in protein synthesis. The above results are discussed in relation to the control of milk protein synthesis by limiting essential amino acids.", "contents": "Effects of increased supply of essential amino acids on the metabolism of the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland. The effects of high rates of infusion of essential amino acids on amino acid uptake by the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland were studied. Infusion of methionine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine and tryptophan (designated group 1) resulted in significant increases in the uptakes of tyrosine, phenylalanine and histidine. Methionine, tryptophan and other essential amino acids were not significantly affected. Infusion of threonine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine and arginine (designated group 2) resulted in significant increases in uptake of all these amino acids. Group 1 amino acid uptake was not significantly affected. Infusion of all the essential amino acids (i.e. groups 1 and 2 together) resulted in significant increases in all their uptakes. Using as index 'the predicted rate of protein synthesis', infusion of group 1 and 2 together led to an apparent 27% increase in protein synthesis. The above results are discussed in relation to the control of milk protein synthesis by limiting essential amino acids.", "PMID": 438402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4067", "title": "Effects of restriction of amino acid supply to the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland.", "content": "When individual essential amino acids were omitted for periods of 40--100 min from the infusate substrate solution in isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland experiments, uptake of methionine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine and tryptophan (group 1) was significantly depressed by a mean of 49.8%, whereas the remaining essential amino acids (group 2) showed no significant decrease in uptake. During depletion periods oxidation of [14C]amino acids was increased. The possible significance of the differences in absorption between the 2 groups of amino acids is discussed.", "contents": "Effects of restriction of amino acid supply to the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland. When individual essential amino acids were omitted for periods of 40--100 min from the infusate substrate solution in isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland experiments, uptake of methionine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine and tryptophan (group 1) was significantly depressed by a mean of 49.8%, whereas the remaining essential amino acids (group 2) showed no significant decrease in uptake. During depletion periods oxidation of [14C]amino acids was increased. The possible significance of the differences in absorption between the 2 groups of amino acids is discussed.", "PMID": 438403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4068", "title": "Benign follicular neoplasias.", "content": "The generality of benign epithelial neoplasias of follicular origin or with differentiation toward follicular structures is briefly reviewed. Recently delineated examples of this group are more extensively discussed.", "contents": "Benign follicular neoplasias. The generality of benign epithelial neoplasias of follicular origin or with differentiation toward follicular structures is briefly reviewed. Recently delineated examples of this group are more extensively discussed.", "PMID": 438412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4069", "title": "Local anesthesia of the face.", "content": "The principles and practice of local anesthesia on the face are discussed in terms of preoperative preparation of the patient, effective topical and injectable local anesthetics, innervation of the face, and techniques of topical application and injection of local anesthetics.", "contents": "Local anesthesia of the face. The principles and practice of local anesthesia on the face are discussed in terms of preoperative preparation of the patient, effective topical and injectable local anesthetics, innervation of the face, and techniques of topical application and injection of local anesthetics.", "PMID": 438413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4070", "title": "Primary cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma on the face: penetration to the base of the brain.", "content": "A recurrent squamous-cell carcinoma that was found clinically to have metastasized to regional lymph nodes was managed by a surgeon skilled in Moh's techniques, a plastic surgeon, and a radiotherapist in a premeditated plan. The malignancy was further found to have extended to the base of the brain. As much surgery as was deemed feasible, still short of complete ablation of the malignancy, was performed. Radiotherapy to the neck prior to radical lymphadenectomy and to the base of the brain subsequently was administered. After one year of follow-up, the patient is well, though prognosis is guarded.", "contents": "Primary cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma on the face: penetration to the base of the brain. A recurrent squamous-cell carcinoma that was found clinically to have metastasized to regional lymph nodes was managed by a surgeon skilled in Moh's techniques, a plastic surgeon, and a radiotherapist in a premeditated plan. The malignancy was further found to have extended to the base of the brain. As much surgery as was deemed feasible, still short of complete ablation of the malignancy, was performed. Radiotherapy to the neck prior to radical lymphadenectomy and to the base of the brain subsequently was administered. After one year of follow-up, the patient is well, though prognosis is guarded.", "PMID": 438414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4071", "title": "Controversies in dermatopathology.", "content": "Five controversial topics in dermatopathology are discussed. Penile lesions with atypical epidermal cells in young men, neoplasms with intraepithelial cellular nests, neoplasms with a trichilemmal outer layer, neoplasms with eddies of squamous cells, and the origin of seborrheic keratoses are analyzed to suggest a means of clinical recognition and understanding.", "contents": "Controversies in dermatopathology. Five controversial topics in dermatopathology are discussed. Penile lesions with atypical epidermal cells in young men, neoplasms with intraepithelial cellular nests, neoplasms with a trichilemmal outer layer, neoplasms with eddies of squamous cells, and the origin of seborrheic keratoses are analyzed to suggest a means of clinical recognition and understanding.", "PMID": 438415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4072", "title": "Hyponatraemia in patients with head injury.", "content": "Three patients with head injury are described to illustrate certain features of the development, treatment and recovery of hyponatraemia. The hyponatraemia is initially due to water retention but true sodium depletion may develop because of an associated urine sodium loss. The mechanism of the latter is discussed.", "contents": "Hyponatraemia in patients with head injury. Three patients with head injury are described to illustrate certain features of the development, treatment and recovery of hyponatraemia. The hyponatraemia is initially due to water retention but true sodium depletion may develop because of an associated urine sodium loss. The mechanism of the latter is discussed.", "PMID": 438422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4073", "title": "Conservative management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants.", "content": "We report our experience of medical treatment, chiefly based on prolonged artificial ventilation, of 33 preterm infants with PDA and heart failure whose survival rate was 88%. All of them had clinical criteria used by others to indicate surgical ligation of the ductus arteriosus. This conservative approach seems to give better results than surgical ligation, despite a high frequency of bronchopulmonary dysplasia among survivors.", "contents": "Conservative management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. We report our experience of medical treatment, chiefly based on prolonged artificial ventilation, of 33 preterm infants with PDA and heart failure whose survival rate was 88%. All of them had clinical criteria used by others to indicate surgical ligation of the ductus arteriosus. This conservative approach seems to give better results than surgical ligation, despite a high frequency of bronchopulmonary dysplasia among survivors.", "PMID": 438423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4074", "title": "Guide wire-sheath technique for pulmonary artery catheterization and central vein cannulation.", "content": "The combination of a spring guide wire with a sheath introducer system has been successfully used for the routine placement of pulmonary artery and central venous catheters. The method, which is described is simple, quick, and safe. It is applicable to the initial placement of the catheter, to any necessary alterations in its position, and to its eventual replacement with a central venous cannula.", "contents": "Guide wire-sheath technique for pulmonary artery catheterization and central vein cannulation. The combination of a spring guide wire with a sheath introducer system has been successfully used for the routine placement of pulmonary artery and central venous catheters. The method, which is described is simple, quick, and safe. It is applicable to the initial placement of the catheter, to any necessary alterations in its position, and to its eventual replacement with a central venous cannula.", "PMID": 438424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4075", "title": "Evaluation of a simple device for regulating intravenous infusions.", "content": "Dial-A-Flo, an infusion control device, is assessed for accuracy, in vitro and in vivo. The unit did not permit accurate control and particularly so at lower flow rates. The normal spontaneous variations in venous pressure that occur around an infusion cannula tip, further increase the error of gravity-fed infusions. Dial-A-Flo has no advantage over a standard administration set alone, and should not be used for controlled administration of cardiac drugs.", "contents": "Evaluation of a simple device for regulating intravenous infusions. Dial-A-Flo, an infusion control device, is assessed for accuracy, in vitro and in vivo. The unit did not permit accurate control and particularly so at lower flow rates. The normal spontaneous variations in venous pressure that occur around an infusion cannula tip, further increase the error of gravity-fed infusions. Dial-A-Flo has no advantage over a standard administration set alone, and should not be used for controlled administration of cardiac drugs.", "PMID": 438425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4076", "title": "Description and evaluation of a preventive mental health program for preschoolers.", "content": "A school-based model of preventive intervention is described which identified and significantly overcame school maladaptation among preschool children enrolled in a Detroit Public School Title I Program. Children were screened by teachers for learning and behavioral difficulties using the AML Scale, the Classroom Adjustment Rating Scale, and the Caldwell Preschool Inventory. Sixty-four children were identified on the basis of these instruments as exhibiting some form of school maladaptation. These children were randomly assigned to an experimental condition (N = 32) or placebo control (N = 32). Individually designed prescriptive techniques were developed for high-risk children in the experimental group and were implemented by college student aides after training by the project staff. A multivariate analysis of variance and follow-up univariate analyses, testing differences between experimental and control groups on the posttests, were performed. The difference between the groups on all three criteria measures was significant and favored the experimental children.", "contents": "Description and evaluation of a preventive mental health program for preschoolers. A school-based model of preventive intervention is described which identified and significantly overcame school maladaptation among preschool children enrolled in a Detroit Public School Title I Program. Children were screened by teachers for learning and behavioral difficulties using the AML Scale, the Classroom Adjustment Rating Scale, and the Caldwell Preschool Inventory. Sixty-four children were identified on the basis of these instruments as exhibiting some form of school maladaptation. These children were randomly assigned to an experimental condition (N = 32) or placebo control (N = 32). Individually designed prescriptive techniques were developed for high-risk children in the experimental group and were implemented by college student aides after training by the project staff. A multivariate analysis of variance and follow-up univariate analyses, testing differences between experimental and control groups on the posttests, were performed. The difference between the groups on all three criteria measures was significant and favored the experimental children.", "PMID": 438427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4077", "title": "The discriminative efficiency of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development.", "content": "This study was designed to determine the discriminative efficiency of the Bayley Mental and Motor Scales for classifying infants as neurologically suspicious and neurologically normal. The two groups employed in the study were formed on the basis of the results from comprehensive neurological examinations performed at ages 1 and 7. Three discriminant function analyses were conducted, one for each scale separately and a third incorporating both scales using a stepwise procedure. Efficiency was measured in terms of number of correct and incorrect classifications, false positive and false negative errors, and validity coefficients. Comparisons among the analyses were examined by means of relative discrimination power and incremental validity. The findings suggested that the Motor Scale provides the most accurate identification of infants with suspected neurological impairments. A statistically significant likelihood discriminant function derived from both scales yielded some additional discriminative power. The law of parsimony, however, dictated the use of the single Motor Scale.", "contents": "The discriminative efficiency of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. This study was designed to determine the discriminative efficiency of the Bayley Mental and Motor Scales for classifying infants as neurologically suspicious and neurologically normal. The two groups employed in the study were formed on the basis of the results from comprehensive neurological examinations performed at ages 1 and 7. Three discriminant function analyses were conducted, one for each scale separately and a third incorporating both scales using a stepwise procedure. Efficiency was measured in terms of number of correct and incorrect classifications, false positive and false negative errors, and validity coefficients. Comparisons among the analyses were examined by means of relative discrimination power and incremental validity. The findings suggested that the Motor Scale provides the most accurate identification of infants with suspected neurological impairments. A statistically significant likelihood discriminant function derived from both scales yielded some additional discriminative power. The law of parsimony, however, dictated the use of the single Motor Scale.", "PMID": 438428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4078", "title": "An adolescent symptom checklist for juvenile deliquents.", "content": "A rating instrument was developed to assess the personality functioning of problem adolescents who have a brief history of official delinquency. Subjects were 186 residents at a short-term diagnostic detention facility. The instrument that emerged from a factor analysis was tested for reliability, validity, and cross-situational generality. Two major orthogonal factors emerged, Apathy-Withdrawal (I) and Anger-Defiance (II). Each factor was found to be congruent with the corresponding dimension on behavior rating instruments that had previously yielded two orthogonal factors and that had been shown to be relevant to a large number of psychological and educational issues. Significant correlations between the factors and a series of global ratings measuring behavior and measures indicative of the frequency and seriousness of official delinquency provided further evidence of construct and discriminant validity as well as evidence of cross-setting consistency of personality functioning.", "contents": "An adolescent symptom checklist for juvenile deliquents. A rating instrument was developed to assess the personality functioning of problem adolescents who have a brief history of official delinquency. Subjects were 186 residents at a short-term diagnostic detention facility. The instrument that emerged from a factor analysis was tested for reliability, validity, and cross-situational generality. Two major orthogonal factors emerged, Apathy-Withdrawal (I) and Anger-Defiance (II). Each factor was found to be congruent with the corresponding dimension on behavior rating instruments that had previously yielded two orthogonal factors and that had been shown to be relevant to a large number of psychological and educational issues. Significant correlations between the factors and a series of global ratings measuring behavior and measures indicative of the frequency and seriousness of official delinquency provided further evidence of construct and discriminant validity as well as evidence of cross-setting consistency of personality functioning.", "PMID": 438429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4079", "title": "An analysis of observational learning in autistic and normal children.", "content": "The present investigation studied observational learning in autistic children. Fifteen autistic and 15 normal children watched an adult model engage in a set of behaviors under specific verbal instructions. After observing this situation, the children were tested to determine what they had acquired through observation. The results showed that (1) the majority of the autistic and the youngest normal children acquired only some limited features of the observational situation and (2) chronological age was related to the amount of learning through observation in the normal children but not in the autistics. The deficit that the autistic children showed in observational learning may be related to a failure to discriminate or attend to the total stimulus input presented. Their failure in observational learning can be seen to contribute in a major way to the severely impoverished behavioral repertoires of these children.", "contents": "An analysis of observational learning in autistic and normal children. The present investigation studied observational learning in autistic children. Fifteen autistic and 15 normal children watched an adult model engage in a set of behaviors under specific verbal instructions. After observing this situation, the children were tested to determine what they had acquired through observation. The results showed that (1) the majority of the autistic and the youngest normal children acquired only some limited features of the observational situation and (2) chronological age was related to the amount of learning through observation in the normal children but not in the autistics. The deficit that the autistic children showed in observational learning may be related to a failure to discriminate or attend to the total stimulus input presented. Their failure in observational learning can be seen to contribute in a major way to the severely impoverished behavioral repertoires of these children.", "PMID": 438430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4080", "title": "Test anxiety and evaluation threat: children's behavior in the classroom.", "content": "Children differing in test anxiety level were observed in two art classes, one immediately preceding a classroom examination, the other when no examination was expected. The observational analyses indicated the following: (a) When an examination was expected there were general increases both in children's task orientation and in their concern with other's evaluations, and a decrease in general activity level. It was suggested that future research examine the effects of additional situational variables on children's classroom behaviors. (b) Highly test-anxious children were generally hardworking and inactive. They reacted to examination expectancy with a decrease in task orientation, reduction in communications, and attentional constriction. Less anxious children reacted to examination expectancy by working harder, eliminating task-irrelevant behaviors, and seeking feedback. These results were interpreted as supporting a cognitive theory of test anxiety.", "contents": "Test anxiety and evaluation threat: children's behavior in the classroom. Children differing in test anxiety level were observed in two art classes, one immediately preceding a classroom examination, the other when no examination was expected. The observational analyses indicated the following: (a) When an examination was expected there were general increases both in children's task orientation and in their concern with other's evaluations, and a decrease in general activity level. It was suggested that future research examine the effects of additional situational variables on children's classroom behaviors. (b) Highly test-anxious children were generally hardworking and inactive. They reacted to examination expectancy with a decrease in task orientation, reduction in communications, and attentional constriction. Less anxious children reacted to examination expectancy by working harder, eliminating task-irrelevant behaviors, and seeking feedback. These results were interpreted as supporting a cognitive theory of test anxiety.", "PMID": 438431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4081", "title": "Behavior problems of preschool children: dimensions and congenital correlates.", "content": "Factor analysis of a revised Behavior Problem Checklist for a sample of preschool children yielded six oblique primary factors and two orthogonal second-order factors. Scores on these factors were correlated with activity level, gross- and fine-motor incoordination, minor physical anomalies, and sociability. There were sex differences and factor differences in the resulting patterns of correlations. The patterns of correlations also indicated that the six primary factors could be collapsed into two broad (Conduct and Personality) and two narrow (Distractibility and Attention Seeking) factors.", "contents": "Behavior problems of preschool children: dimensions and congenital correlates. Factor analysis of a revised Behavior Problem Checklist for a sample of preschool children yielded six oblique primary factors and two orthogonal second-order factors. Scores on these factors were correlated with activity level, gross- and fine-motor incoordination, minor physical anomalies, and sociability. There were sex differences and factor differences in the resulting patterns of correlations. The patterns of correlations also indicated that the six primary factors could be collapsed into two broad (Conduct and Personality) and two narrow (Distractibility and Attention Seeking) factors.", "PMID": 438432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4082", "title": "Relationship among environmental and demographic variables and teacher-rated hyperactivity.", "content": "This study assessed the role of environmental and demographic factors in the occurrence of teacher-rated hyperactivity. The subject group consisted of 79 hyperactive and 81 nonhyperactive children ranging from 5 to 12 years of age. Parents of the subjects were interviewed to obtain information regarding the environmental and demographic factors of sex, race, birth order, number of siblings, frequency of change of residence, income level, mother's age, father's age, educational level of mother, educational level of father, parents' marital status, and the method of child discipline used in the home. Comparison between the the hyperactive and nonhyperactive groups suggested nonsignificant differences with the exception of sex (p less than .001), in which the ratio of hyperactive males to hyperactive females was 5:1.", "contents": "Relationship among environmental and demographic variables and teacher-rated hyperactivity. This study assessed the role of environmental and demographic factors in the occurrence of teacher-rated hyperactivity. The subject group consisted of 79 hyperactive and 81 nonhyperactive children ranging from 5 to 12 years of age. Parents of the subjects were interviewed to obtain information regarding the environmental and demographic factors of sex, race, birth order, number of siblings, frequency of change of residence, income level, mother's age, father's age, educational level of mother, educational level of father, parents' marital status, and the method of child discipline used in the home. Comparison between the the hyperactive and nonhyperactive groups suggested nonsignificant differences with the exception of sex (p less than .001), in which the ratio of hyperactive males to hyperactive females was 5:1.", "PMID": 438433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4083", "title": "An interview with a child to assess psychiatric disturbance: a note on its reliability and validity.", "content": "Forty-six children with enuresis were given a psychiatirc interview. The two writers made independent ratings of 10 behavioral variables. Seven of these showed satisfactory interrater reliability. No relationship was established between child psychiatric disturbance assessed in this way and estimates of disorder obtained from information given by mothers and teachers.", "contents": "An interview with a child to assess psychiatric disturbance: a note on its reliability and validity. Forty-six children with enuresis were given a psychiatirc interview. The two writers made independent ratings of 10 behavioral variables. Seven of these showed satisfactory interrater reliability. No relationship was established between child psychiatric disturbance assessed in this way and estimates of disorder obtained from information given by mothers and teachers.", "PMID": 438434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4084", "title": "A psychosocial study of hyperactive and learning-disabled boys.", "content": "Adequately reading hyperactive boys, normally behaved learning-disabled (LD) boys, and normal controls were contrasted on tests measuring personality traits, cognitive role taking, and moral resoning. Additionally, parents and teachers rated all children on a number of behaviors, and parents were interviewed in a process-oriented fashion to assess home stimulation potential. Hyperactive boys were rated more aggressive and anxious than LD boys and controls and had not been encouraged as much by parents to achieve. Hyperactives had been born to younger parents, on the average, and 25% lived with their mothers and stepfathers. None of the LD or control boys had stepfathers. The groups did not differ significantly in moral reasoning ability, cognitive role taking, or locus of control; on the Junior Personality Inventory hyperactives tended to have elevated scores on the neuroticism scale while LD boys had higher scores on the lie scale.", "contents": "A psychosocial study of hyperactive and learning-disabled boys. Adequately reading hyperactive boys, normally behaved learning-disabled (LD) boys, and normal controls were contrasted on tests measuring personality traits, cognitive role taking, and moral resoning. Additionally, parents and teachers rated all children on a number of behaviors, and parents were interviewed in a process-oriented fashion to assess home stimulation potential. Hyperactive boys were rated more aggressive and anxious than LD boys and controls and had not been encouraged as much by parents to achieve. Hyperactives had been born to younger parents, on the average, and 25% lived with their mothers and stepfathers. None of the LD or control boys had stepfathers. The groups did not differ significantly in moral reasoning ability, cognitive role taking, or locus of control; on the Junior Personality Inventory hyperactives tended to have elevated scores on the neuroticism scale while LD boys had higher scores on the lie scale.", "PMID": 438435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4085", "title": "Food and nutrition policy: probability and practicality.", "content": "The nutrition community has, unfortunately, tended to overemphasize the benefits to be derived from consumption of recommended levels of essential nutrients and has tended to ignore or underemphasize--except for obesity--the effects of over-consumption. New guidelines incorporating both concepts must and will be formulated. The nutrition community has the opportunity to provide the leadership required. If it does not meet the challenge, that will be assumed by others.", "contents": "Food and nutrition policy: probability and practicality. The nutrition community has, unfortunately, tended to overemphasize the benefits to be derived from consumption of recommended levels of essential nutrients and has tended to ignore or underemphasize--except for obesity--the effects of over-consumption. New guidelines incorporating both concepts must and will be formulated. The nutrition community has the opportunity to provide the leadership required. If it does not meet the challenge, that will be assumed by others.", "PMID": 438449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4086", "title": "The scientific basis of the \"Goals\": what can be done now?", "content": "Universal dietary goals for the general public cannot be formulated or implented. More appropriate would be guidelines to serve as preventive measures for specific groups, based on genetic endowment, age, sex, and condition. Nutrition education as a component in health education is essential.", "contents": "The scientific basis of the \"Goals\": what can be done now? Universal dietary goals for the general public cannot be formulated or implented. More appropriate would be guidelines to serve as preventive measures for specific groups, based on genetic endowment, age, sex, and condition. Nutrition education as a component in health education is essential.", "PMID": 438450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4087", "title": "Are professionals jumping the gun in the fight against chronic diseases?", "content": "The first steps in implementing a national nutrition policy of providing a food supply which meets the nutritional requirements of our population have been the periodic issuance of the Recommended Dietary Allowances. More recently, the \"Dietary Goals for the United States\" have been released by the Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs of the U.S. Senate, developed in the belief that they would, if followed, serve as one avenue of preventing coronary heart disease. The author presents a \"critique\" of the Dietary Goals, including a re-examination of food consumption statistics and a summary of intervention trials in five countries in which diet or drug therapy was aimed at lowering serum cholesterol. Listed are four criteria for evaluating recommendations to the public about diet and chronic disease. Rather than making a major revision in the proportion of fat and carbohydrates in our national diet, he recommends only limitation of the overall amounts to achieve weight control for those who need it.", "contents": "Are professionals jumping the gun in the fight against chronic diseases? The first steps in implementing a national nutrition policy of providing a food supply which meets the nutritional requirements of our population have been the periodic issuance of the Recommended Dietary Allowances. More recently, the \"Dietary Goals for the United States\" have been released by the Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs of the U.S. Senate, developed in the belief that they would, if followed, serve as one avenue of preventing coronary heart disease. The author presents a \"critique\" of the Dietary Goals, including a re-examination of food consumption statistics and a summary of intervention trials in five countries in which diet or drug therapy was aimed at lowering serum cholesterol. Listed are four criteria for evaluating recommendations to the public about diet and chronic disease. Rather than making a major revision in the proportion of fat and carbohydrates in our national diet, he recommends only limitation of the overall amounts to achieve weight control for those who need it.", "PMID": 438451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4088", "title": "Are low-cholesterol diets expensive?", "content": "To serve as the basis of cost comparison, USDA \"moderate-cost\" and \"thrifty\" menus for one week were modified to meet guidelines for a cholesterol-lowering diet. Prices of individual items on the menus at both cost levels were obtained from two supermarkets and averaged. Items on the moderate-cost, cholesterol-lowering diet were $1.37 less than the USDA menus. At the low-cost level, the modified menus cost 22 cents more. In neither case was the difference significant by the t-test.", "contents": "Are low-cholesterol diets expensive? To serve as the basis of cost comparison, USDA \"moderate-cost\" and \"thrifty\" menus for one week were modified to meet guidelines for a cholesterol-lowering diet. Prices of individual items on the menus at both cost levels were obtained from two supermarkets and averaged. Items on the moderate-cost, cholesterol-lowering diet were $1.37 less than the USDA menus. At the low-cost level, the modified menus cost 22 cents more. In neither case was the difference significant by the t-test.", "PMID": 438452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4089", "title": "Cholesterol Index of foods. Teaching tool for fat-modified diets.", "content": "The Cholesterol Index of foods expresses the relative effect of individual portions of foods on the serum cholesterol of an average individual. It is calculated from food cholesterol content and fatty acid composition. The total Cholesterol Index for the day has a value of 100 for a 2,400-kcal, prudent diet and a value of slightly above 200 for an equicaloric average American diet. The Cholesterol Index for a recipe prepared at home is the sum of the Index values for its ingredients. The Index can be adapted to individual dietary prescriptions fo patients with hyperlipidemia. After publication of Cholesterol Index tables, the Index could be used by dietitians or by individuals who wish to alter their present food pattern to a more prudent diet.", "contents": "Cholesterol Index of foods. Teaching tool for fat-modified diets. The Cholesterol Index of foods expresses the relative effect of individual portions of foods on the serum cholesterol of an average individual. It is calculated from food cholesterol content and fatty acid composition. The total Cholesterol Index for the day has a value of 100 for a 2,400-kcal, prudent diet and a value of slightly above 200 for an equicaloric average American diet. The Cholesterol Index for a recipe prepared at home is the sum of the Index values for its ingredients. The Index can be adapted to individual dietary prescriptions fo patients with hyperlipidemia. After publication of Cholesterol Index tables, the Index could be used by dietitians or by individuals who wish to alter their present food pattern to a more prudent diet.", "PMID": 438453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4090", "title": "Environmental fate of rice paddy pesticides in a model ecosystem.", "content": "The distribution and metabolic fate of several rice paddy pesticides were evaluated in a modified model ecosystem. Among the three BHC isomers, beta-isomer was the most stable and bioconcentrated in all of the organisms. Alpha- and gamma-isomers were moderately persistent and degraded to some extent during the 33 day period. Disulfoton was relatively persistent due to the transformation to its oxidation products. Pyridaphenthion was fairly biodegradable. N-Phenyl maleic hydrazide derived from the hydrolysis of pyridaphenthion was not detected in the organisms though it was found in the aquarium water after 33 days. Cartap and edifenphos were considerably biodegradable, and the ratio of the conversion to water soluble metabolites was very high. There was a distinct difference in the persistence of Kitazin P and edifenphos in the aquarium water. It appeared that the hydrolysis rate of the pesticides affected their fate in the organisms. PCP appeared to be moderately biodegradable. CNP was considerably stable and stored in the organisms though the concentration in the aquarium water was relatively low. The persistence and distribution of the pesticides in the model ecosystem were dependent on their chemical structures. In spite of the limitation derived from short experimental period, the model ecosystem may be applicable for predicting the environmental fate of pesticides.", "contents": "Environmental fate of rice paddy pesticides in a model ecosystem. The distribution and metabolic fate of several rice paddy pesticides were evaluated in a modified model ecosystem. Among the three BHC isomers, beta-isomer was the most stable and bioconcentrated in all of the organisms. Alpha- and gamma-isomers were moderately persistent and degraded to some extent during the 33 day period. Disulfoton was relatively persistent due to the transformation to its oxidation products. Pyridaphenthion was fairly biodegradable. N-Phenyl maleic hydrazide derived from the hydrolysis of pyridaphenthion was not detected in the organisms though it was found in the aquarium water after 33 days. Cartap and edifenphos were considerably biodegradable, and the ratio of the conversion to water soluble metabolites was very high. There was a distinct difference in the persistence of Kitazin P and edifenphos in the aquarium water. It appeared that the hydrolysis rate of the pesticides affected their fate in the organisms. PCP appeared to be moderately biodegradable. CNP was considerably stable and stored in the organisms though the concentration in the aquarium water was relatively low. The persistence and distribution of the pesticides in the model ecosystem were dependent on their chemical structures. In spite of the limitation derived from short experimental period, the model ecosystem may be applicable for predicting the environmental fate of pesticides.", "PMID": 438458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4091", "title": "Effects of dieldrin on operant behavior of bobwhites.", "content": "Bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) were trained to peck a green lighted key to receive food. Bird response performance was monitored for 14 days, then birds were dosed with five levels of dieldrin (50 to 300 micrograms every other day) for 42 days while their response performance was monitored. At the end of the 42-day dosage period, mean brain concentrations of dieldrin ranged from 2.6 ppm to 11.8 ppm; lower concentrations associated with lower dosage levels. All dieldrin dosage levels altered cage behavior of bobwhites, dieldrin dosage levels greater than 100 micrograms resulted in slower and less accurate responses by dosed birds during the 42-day trial period.", "contents": "Effects of dieldrin on operant behavior of bobwhites. Bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) were trained to peck a green lighted key to receive food. Bird response performance was monitored for 14 days, then birds were dosed with five levels of dieldrin (50 to 300 micrograms every other day) for 42 days while their response performance was monitored. At the end of the 42-day dosage period, mean brain concentrations of dieldrin ranged from 2.6 ppm to 11.8 ppm; lower concentrations associated with lower dosage levels. All dieldrin dosage levels altered cage behavior of bobwhites, dieldrin dosage levels greater than 100 micrograms resulted in slower and less accurate responses by dosed birds during the 42-day trial period.", "PMID": 438459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4092", "title": "Photomirex: a teratogenicity and tissue distribution study in the rabbit.", "content": "Adult New Zealand white does were intubated orally with single daily doses of 0, 5, or 10 mg of photomirex (8-monohydromirex) per kg body weight from the 6th through to the 18th day of gestation. Pregnancies were interrupted at term by cesarian section and fetuses removed and evaluated by following routine teratologic methods. Both maternal and fetal tissues were analyzed for residues of photomirex. None of the treated does showed any sign of toxicity. Except for a significant reduction in the mean fetal weight of the 10 mg/kg group all other parameters which evaluated fetal survival and fetal development were within the control range. Photomirex was found in all tissues examined. In the doe, the highest levels were found in fat followed by liver, kidney, spleen, heart, brain and blood. Photomirex was readily transferred across the placenta and accumulated in the fetus. However, in the fetus the highest levels were found in the heart, followed by liver, brain and blood. There were no teratogenic effects at the doses used in this study.", "contents": "Photomirex: a teratogenicity and tissue distribution study in the rabbit. Adult New Zealand white does were intubated orally with single daily doses of 0, 5, or 10 mg of photomirex (8-monohydromirex) per kg body weight from the 6th through to the 18th day of gestation. Pregnancies were interrupted at term by cesarian section and fetuses removed and evaluated by following routine teratologic methods. Both maternal and fetal tissues were analyzed for residues of photomirex. None of the treated does showed any sign of toxicity. Except for a significant reduction in the mean fetal weight of the 10 mg/kg group all other parameters which evaluated fetal survival and fetal development were within the control range. Photomirex was found in all tissues examined. In the doe, the highest levels were found in fat followed by liver, kidney, spleen, heart, brain and blood. Photomirex was readily transferred across the placenta and accumulated in the fetus. However, in the fetus the highest levels were found in the heart, followed by liver, brain and blood. There were no teratogenic effects at the doses used in this study.", "PMID": 438460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4093", "title": "Persistence and movement of chlorbromuron in potato soil.", "content": "Movement and persistence of chlorbromuron applied at rates of 1.5, 3, and 6 kg a.i./ha was studied in a New Brunswick potato soil for one growing season. Most of the chlorbromuron remained in the 0 - 2.5 cm soil depth with slight residues in the 2.5 - 5, 5 - 7.5, and 7.5 - 10 cm depths. After 47 days the chlorbromuron residues had dropped to 40%, then gradually levelled off to 25% at the end of the season. Chlorbromuron was determined directly by electron capture gas chromatography using a short glass column of 3% OV-210.", "contents": "Persistence and movement of chlorbromuron in potato soil. Movement and persistence of chlorbromuron applied at rates of 1.5, 3, and 6 kg a.i./ha was studied in a New Brunswick potato soil for one growing season. Most of the chlorbromuron remained in the 0 - 2.5 cm soil depth with slight residues in the 2.5 - 5, 5 - 7.5, and 7.5 - 10 cm depths. After 47 days the chlorbromuron residues had dropped to 40%, then gradually levelled off to 25% at the end of the season. Chlorbromuron was determined directly by electron capture gas chromatography using a short glass column of 3% OV-210.", "PMID": 438461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4094", "title": "Determination of disulfoton and permethrin residues in an organic soil and their translocation into lettuce, onion and carrot.", "content": "The residues of disulfoton and permethrin in an organic soil and in vegetables grown in soil treated with a granular formulation of the pesticides were determined by gas chromatography. The residues were removed from soil or plant samples by successive extractions with acetone and hexane. Permethrin persisted in the soil for the initial 28 days and declined slowly during the rest of the season but disulfoton after persisting for one week at the applied concentration was degraded in the next two weeks. The insecticides did not translocate into the edible parts of the vegetables but were present in the root system of onion and lettuce. Carrot and lettuce yields were not singificantly different from those of the controls but onion yields were substantially decreased by the use of permethrin.", "contents": "Determination of disulfoton and permethrin residues in an organic soil and their translocation into lettuce, onion and carrot. The residues of disulfoton and permethrin in an organic soil and in vegetables grown in soil treated with a granular formulation of the pesticides were determined by gas chromatography. The residues were removed from soil or plant samples by successive extractions with acetone and hexane. Permethrin persisted in the soil for the initial 28 days and declined slowly during the rest of the season but disulfoton after persisting for one week at the applied concentration was degraded in the next two weeks. The insecticides did not translocate into the edible parts of the vegetables but were present in the root system of onion and lettuce. Carrot and lettuce yields were not singificantly different from those of the controls but onion yields were substantially decreased by the use of permethrin.", "PMID": 438462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4095", "title": "Effects of sub-chronic low-level dietary intake of chlordane on rats with cirrhosis of the liver.", "content": "Male rats, 60 days old, were treated with chlordane during or after induction of liver cirrhosis with carbon tetrachloride to determine the effect of treatment with chlordane on the response of the rats to the disease. When liver cirrhosis was induced simultaneously with chlordane treatment the disease symptoms were aggravated; the lipid content of the tissue was lowered significantly, growth rate was significantly lower than controls and there was no apparent replacement of damaged liver tissue by liver growth. The cytochrome P450 content of the liver was similar after both treatments. Continuation of the chlordane treatment after termination of the carbon tetrachloride treatment brought about a more rapid recovery from the induced cirrhotic condition. All these responses were to a dose range one tenth the recommended \"no effect\" level for healthy animals.", "contents": "Effects of sub-chronic low-level dietary intake of chlordane on rats with cirrhosis of the liver. Male rats, 60 days old, were treated with chlordane during or after induction of liver cirrhosis with carbon tetrachloride to determine the effect of treatment with chlordane on the response of the rats to the disease. When liver cirrhosis was induced simultaneously with chlordane treatment the disease symptoms were aggravated; the lipid content of the tissue was lowered significantly, growth rate was significantly lower than controls and there was no apparent replacement of damaged liver tissue by liver growth. The cytochrome P450 content of the liver was similar after both treatments. Continuation of the chlordane treatment after termination of the carbon tetrachloride treatment brought about a more rapid recovery from the induced cirrhotic condition. All these responses were to a dose range one tenth the recommended \"no effect\" level for healthy animals.", "PMID": 438463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4096", "title": "Delayed neuropathy in sheep by the phosphonothioate insecticide cyanofenphos.", "content": "Cyanofenphos (surecide)(R), 25% E.C., O-ethyl O-(4-cyanophenyl) phenylphosphonothioate, was orally administered to one year old lambs at sublethal doses of 1 mg, 2 mg and 4 mg active ingredient kg-1 day-1 for time intervals 60, 45 and 30 days respectively. Irreversible paralytic ataxia symptoms of delayed neuropathy appeared at about 80, 50 and 30 days respectively. In weekly blood samples, AChE (acetylcholine-sterase) and MAO (monoamine oxidase) activities were inhibited depending upon level of dosing and time interval. However no significant correlation was found between the extent of plasma AChE and MAO inhibition and the onset of ataxia symptoms. In brain samples from ataxiated animals, AChE, MAO and NTE (neurotoxic esterase) activities were assayed simultaneously with untreated animal. Direct correlation was shown between in vivo NTE inhibition and the occurrence of delayed neuropathy. Cyanofenphos is the third compound of the phenyl phosphonothioate type on the market showing delayed neuropathy together with Leptophos and EPN.", "contents": "Delayed neuropathy in sheep by the phosphonothioate insecticide cyanofenphos. Cyanofenphos (surecide)(R), 25% E.C., O-ethyl O-(4-cyanophenyl) phenylphosphonothioate, was orally administered to one year old lambs at sublethal doses of 1 mg, 2 mg and 4 mg active ingredient kg-1 day-1 for time intervals 60, 45 and 30 days respectively. Irreversible paralytic ataxia symptoms of delayed neuropathy appeared at about 80, 50 and 30 days respectively. In weekly blood samples, AChE (acetylcholine-sterase) and MAO (monoamine oxidase) activities were inhibited depending upon level of dosing and time interval. However no significant correlation was found between the extent of plasma AChE and MAO inhibition and the onset of ataxia symptoms. In brain samples from ataxiated animals, AChE, MAO and NTE (neurotoxic esterase) activities were assayed simultaneously with untreated animal. Direct correlation was shown between in vivo NTE inhibition and the occurrence of delayed neuropathy. Cyanofenphos is the third compound of the phenyl phosphonothioate type on the market showing delayed neuropathy together with Leptophos and EPN.", "PMID": 438464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4097", "title": "The metabolic fate of N-isopropyl-N-phenyloxamic acid in the rat and the milk goat.", "content": "Rats excreted the 14C from a single oral dose of N-isopropyl-N-[14C]phenyloxamic acid [I, a soil metabolite from 2-chloro-N-isopropylacetanilide (propachlor)] in approximately equal quantities in the urine (49.2%) and feces (48.2%). A milking goat given daily oral doses of [14C]-I (1 mg of I three times daily) excreted more 14C in the feces (56.6%) than it excreted in the urine. From both species, I accounted for 97 to 100% of the urinary 14C, and all of the 14C that was extractable from the feces (73 to 75% of the 14C in feces was extractable with methanol). Goat milk samples collected 16 hr after the last dose contained no detectable 14C. Tissue residues of 14C were determined.", "contents": "The metabolic fate of N-isopropyl-N-phenyloxamic acid in the rat and the milk goat. Rats excreted the 14C from a single oral dose of N-isopropyl-N-[14C]phenyloxamic acid [I, a soil metabolite from 2-chloro-N-isopropylacetanilide (propachlor)] in approximately equal quantities in the urine (49.2%) and feces (48.2%). A milking goat given daily oral doses of [14C]-I (1 mg of I three times daily) excreted more 14C in the feces (56.6%) than it excreted in the urine. From both species, I accounted for 97 to 100% of the urinary 14C, and all of the 14C that was extractable from the feces (73 to 75% of the 14C in feces was extractable with methanol). Goat milk samples collected 16 hr after the last dose contained no detectable 14C. Tissue residues of 14C were determined.", "PMID": 438465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4098", "title": "Fate of ochratoxin A in goats.", "content": "The fate of ochratoxin A (OA) was studied in goats given a single oral dose of 3H-OA (0.5 mg/kg). More than 90% of the radioactivity was found to be excreted in 7 days and the majority (53%) was found in feces. Thirty-eight percent, 6% and 2.26% of the activity was found in urine, milk and serum, respectively. The radioactivity in the liver and kidney 6 hours after feeding amounted to 1.5 and 0.5% of the total dose administered, respectively. Subsequent fractionation of liver and kidney homogenates revealed that microsomes, ribosomes and post-ribosomal supernatant fractions contained most radioactivity. Thin layer chromatographic analyses revealed two additional radioactive spots with Rf values and fluorescent characteristics different from OA, Oalpha and 4-OH-OA. Whereas OA was found as the unaltered molecule in feces, the metabolites were primarily found in urine and milk. Less than 0.03% of free OA was found in milk during the 7-day period.", "contents": "Fate of ochratoxin A in goats. The fate of ochratoxin A (OA) was studied in goats given a single oral dose of 3H-OA (0.5 mg/kg). More than 90% of the radioactivity was found to be excreted in 7 days and the majority (53%) was found in feces. Thirty-eight percent, 6% and 2.26% of the activity was found in urine, milk and serum, respectively. The radioactivity in the liver and kidney 6 hours after feeding amounted to 1.5 and 0.5% of the total dose administered, respectively. Subsequent fractionation of liver and kidney homogenates revealed that microsomes, ribosomes and post-ribosomal supernatant fractions contained most radioactivity. Thin layer chromatographic analyses revealed two additional radioactive spots with Rf values and fluorescent characteristics different from OA, Oalpha and 4-OH-OA. Whereas OA was found as the unaltered molecule in feces, the metabolites were primarily found in urine and milk. Less than 0.03% of free OA was found in milk during the 7-day period.", "PMID": 438467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4099", "title": "Effect of ferrous sulfate on parathion degradation in flooded soil.", "content": "In an isotope study, the effect of ferrous sulfate on the degradation of parathion was studied under flooded soil conditions. The addition of ferrous sulfate to flooded soil led to more rapid and extensive degradation of parathion with the formation of additional degradation products in ferrous sulfate-amended soil. This effect was not pronounced when ferrous sulfate was added to non-flooded soil or to flooded autoclaved soil. Sulfate, rather than Fe2+, was implicated in the extensive degradation of parathion.", "contents": "Effect of ferrous sulfate on parathion degradation in flooded soil. In an isotope study, the effect of ferrous sulfate on the degradation of parathion was studied under flooded soil conditions. The addition of ferrous sulfate to flooded soil led to more rapid and extensive degradation of parathion with the formation of additional degradation products in ferrous sulfate-amended soil. This effect was not pronounced when ferrous sulfate was added to non-flooded soil or to flooded autoclaved soil. Sulfate, rather than Fe2+, was implicated in the extensive degradation of parathion.", "PMID": 438468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4100", "title": "Blood-brain barrier permeability in senescent rats.", "content": "Cerebrovascular permeability to 14C-sucrose was measured in 3-mo-old and 28-mo-old conscious, restrained Fischer 344 male rats. Tracer was injected intravenously in these animals and arterial plasma concentrations were followed for 50 to 240 min, when animals were killed and regional brain radioactivity was measured. Equations derived by a two-compartment diffusion model were fit to concentration data to estimate PA (product of cerebral capillary permeability and surface area) and Ve (cerebral distribution space of 14C-sucrose). PA in 3-mo-old rats averaged 7.53 x 10(-6) sec-1 in 14 cerebral regions, and was not significantly elevated in 28-mo-old rats except possibly at white matter. Ve fell from an average of 0.126 in control rats to 0.070 in 28-mo-old rats. This 45% reduction may reflect a reduced extracellular space in the older animals. The findings do not support the hypothesis that aging of the central nervous system is related to breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.", "contents": "Blood-brain barrier permeability in senescent rats. Cerebrovascular permeability to 14C-sucrose was measured in 3-mo-old and 28-mo-old conscious, restrained Fischer 344 male rats. Tracer was injected intravenously in these animals and arterial plasma concentrations were followed for 50 to 240 min, when animals were killed and regional brain radioactivity was measured. Equations derived by a two-compartment diffusion model were fit to concentration data to estimate PA (product of cerebral capillary permeability and surface area) and Ve (cerebral distribution space of 14C-sucrose). PA in 3-mo-old rats averaged 7.53 x 10(-6) sec-1 in 14 cerebral regions, and was not significantly elevated in 28-mo-old rats except possibly at white matter. Ve fell from an average of 0.126 in control rats to 0.070 in 28-mo-old rats. This 45% reduction may reflect a reduced extracellular space in the older animals. The findings do not support the hypothesis that aging of the central nervous system is related to breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.", "PMID": 438469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4101", "title": "Trypsinization frequency and loss of proliferative capacity in WI-38 cells.", "content": "The effect of the trypsinization procedure employed in routine serial subcultivation on the proliferative life span of WI-38 cells was studied by varying the frequency of trypsinization and by using a nonenzymatic subcultivation technique. The results indicate that recurrent trypsinization does not contribute to loss of proliferative capacity and may, in fact, delay this loss to some degree.", "contents": "Trypsinization frequency and loss of proliferative capacity in WI-38 cells. The effect of the trypsinization procedure employed in routine serial subcultivation on the proliferative life span of WI-38 cells was studied by varying the frequency of trypsinization and by using a nonenzymatic subcultivation technique. The results indicate that recurrent trypsinization does not contribute to loss of proliferative capacity and may, in fact, delay this loss to some degree.", "PMID": 438470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4102", "title": "Sequential appearance of auto-erythrocyte antibody immunoglobulin classes with age.", "content": "The autoimmune, short-lived, NZB/BINJ mice were followed for the changes taking place in the number of thymic and splenic nucleated cells from day 1 up to 12 mo of age. The long-lived C57BL/6J mice were monitored in parallel with the NZB mice to see whether similar changes were reflected. Both strains of mice were investigated for the sequential appearance of anti-erythrocyte autoantibody classes by the direct Coombs' agglutination test. IgG1 was the first class of antibody detected on the erythrocytes and was followed by IgG3, IgG2 and IgA, simultaneously. IgM was the last antibody to react with erythrocytes. The C57BL strain had a very small number of mice with low levels of IgG1 antibody on erythrocytes throughout the study.", "contents": "Sequential appearance of auto-erythrocyte antibody immunoglobulin classes with age. The autoimmune, short-lived, NZB/BINJ mice were followed for the changes taking place in the number of thymic and splenic nucleated cells from day 1 up to 12 mo of age. The long-lived C57BL/6J mice were monitored in parallel with the NZB mice to see whether similar changes were reflected. Both strains of mice were investigated for the sequential appearance of anti-erythrocyte autoantibody classes by the direct Coombs' agglutination test. IgG1 was the first class of antibody detected on the erythrocytes and was followed by IgG3, IgG2 and IgA, simultaneously. IgM was the last antibody to react with erythrocytes. The C57BL strain had a very small number of mice with low levels of IgG1 antibody on erythrocytes throughout the study.", "PMID": 438471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4103", "title": "Heart rate and skin conductance during cognitive processes as a function of age.", "content": "Heart rate (HR) and skin conductance (SC) were measured in males ranging in age from 23 to 87 years while they were performing mental arithmetic tasks, subtractions, and during multiple trial free recall. Performance on the arithmetic tasks was not affected by age. HR but not SC showed greater changes from basal levels in young subjects. Free recall was greater in young than in old subjects, and changes in HR were again greater in the young subjects. During intertrial rest periods HR returned t9 basal levels in young but not in old subjects. These changes are similar to those seen in older people after physical exercise. Correlations between HR and SC changes during arithmetic performance and during free recall indicated that response stereotypy is to some extent age dependent.", "contents": "Heart rate and skin conductance during cognitive processes as a function of age. Heart rate (HR) and skin conductance (SC) were measured in males ranging in age from 23 to 87 years while they were performing mental arithmetic tasks, subtractions, and during multiple trial free recall. Performance on the arithmetic tasks was not affected by age. HR but not SC showed greater changes from basal levels in young subjects. Free recall was greater in young than in old subjects, and changes in HR were again greater in the young subjects. During intertrial rest periods HR returned t9 basal levels in young but not in old subjects. These changes are similar to those seen in older people after physical exercise. Correlations between HR and SC changes during arithmetic performance and during free recall indicated that response stereotypy is to some extent age dependent.", "PMID": 438472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4104", "title": "Anxiety, aging and the third emergency reaction.", "content": "Severe anxiety, unlike severe depression, is not common among the aged. In view of the multitude of stresses accompanying later life and considering the fact that lack of success in mastering stress typically produces anxiety, one should expect a high frequency of anxiety among the aged. To explain the deficit, it is proposed that those who survive into old age have developed strategies to successfully deal with stress, that among these strategies is a passive stance, termed \"freeze,\" and that \"freeze\" is a third emergency reaction, one which was omitted from the fight-flight paradigm of emergency reactions.", "contents": "Anxiety, aging and the third emergency reaction. Severe anxiety, unlike severe depression, is not common among the aged. In view of the multitude of stresses accompanying later life and considering the fact that lack of success in mastering stress typically produces anxiety, one should expect a high frequency of anxiety among the aged. To explain the deficit, it is proposed that those who survive into old age have developed strategies to successfully deal with stress, that among these strategies is a passive stance, termed \"freeze,\" and that \"freeze\" is a third emergency reaction, one which was omitted from the fight-flight paradigm of emergency reactions.", "PMID": 438473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4105", "title": "Participation of senior citizens in the swine flu inoculation program: an analysis of Health Belief Model variables in preventive health behavior.", "content": "Evidence is presented of statistically significant and strong relationships between Swine Flu Inoculation status and nine variables in the reformulated Health Belief Model with 122 randomly selected subjects, primarily Black and Portuguese-American, who are active members of two Providence, Rhode Island senior centers. No statistically significant relationship was discovered between inoculation status and previously having had the flu. The variables which were found related are: Efficacy, Safety, Knowledge of Side Effects, Prior Flu Shot Status, Proportion of Friends and Relatives Who Got the Shot, Sex, Race, Future Plans for Flu Shots, and Future Plans for Other Inoculations. The data were obtained through personal interviews in the Spring of 1977. It is suggested that the results provide some basis for optimism for successful intervention designed to change the future preventive health behaviors of nonparticipants in the Swine Flu Inoculation Program. Many nonparticipants had fears and doubts about the effectiveness and safety of the shot and are amendable to suggestions from physicians about future inoculation participation. Full information should be provided to high-risk groups such as senior citizens about the relative risks of suffering serious side effects, the effectiveness and safety of the procedure for persons their age with the typical health problems of senior citizens, and the relative risks and dangers to them of contracting the illness against which the shot is designed to protect them.", "contents": "Participation of senior citizens in the swine flu inoculation program: an analysis of Health Belief Model variables in preventive health behavior. Evidence is presented of statistically significant and strong relationships between Swine Flu Inoculation status and nine variables in the reformulated Health Belief Model with 122 randomly selected subjects, primarily Black and Portuguese-American, who are active members of two Providence, Rhode Island senior centers. No statistically significant relationship was discovered between inoculation status and previously having had the flu. The variables which were found related are: Efficacy, Safety, Knowledge of Side Effects, Prior Flu Shot Status, Proportion of Friends and Relatives Who Got the Shot, Sex, Race, Future Plans for Flu Shots, and Future Plans for Other Inoculations. The data were obtained through personal interviews in the Spring of 1977. It is suggested that the results provide some basis for optimism for successful intervention designed to change the future preventive health behaviors of nonparticipants in the Swine Flu Inoculation Program. Many nonparticipants had fears and doubts about the effectiveness and safety of the shot and are amendable to suggestions from physicians about future inoculation participation. Full information should be provided to high-risk groups such as senior citizens about the relative risks of suffering serious side effects, the effectiveness and safety of the procedure for persons their age with the typical health problems of senior citizens, and the relative risks and dangers to them of contracting the illness against which the shot is designed to protect them.", "PMID": 438474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4106", "title": "The influence of stimulus age and sex on person perception.", "content": "College males and females evaluated 25-, 50-, and 75-year-old males and females using a semantic differential. Evaluations became more negative with increasing age of stimulus concept. Males were perceived as more effective and autonomous than females until age 75. Females were perceived as more personally acceptable at all ages. The aging process was perceived as similar for males and females between 25 and 50 but more detrimental to males than to females between 50 and 75. Female Ss evaluated male and female stimulus concepts similarly while male Ss evaluated male stimuli more positively than female stimuli.", "contents": "The influence of stimulus age and sex on person perception. College males and females evaluated 25-, 50-, and 75-year-old males and females using a semantic differential. Evaluations became more negative with increasing age of stimulus concept. Males were perceived as more effective and autonomous than females until age 75. Females were perceived as more personally acceptable at all ages. The aging process was perceived as similar for males and females between 25 and 50 but more detrimental to males than to females between 50 and 75. Female Ss evaluated male and female stimulus concepts similarly while male Ss evaluated male stimuli more positively than female stimuli.", "PMID": 438475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4107", "title": "Differences in the magnitude of the Delboeuf Illusion and Usnadze Effect during adulthood.", "content": "The Delboeuf illusion (Type I) and Usnadze Effect (Type II) were used to investigate changes in perceptual processes in 72 female subjects, aged 20-79 years. Unlike other studies, small figures (less than 2 degrees) were presented for brief periods under fixation conditions. The magnitude of the Delboeuf illusion increased in old age, while the magnitude of the Usnadze Effect showed no change.", "contents": "Differences in the magnitude of the Delboeuf Illusion and Usnadze Effect during adulthood. The Delboeuf illusion (Type I) and Usnadze Effect (Type II) were used to investigate changes in perceptual processes in 72 female subjects, aged 20-79 years. Unlike other studies, small figures (less than 2 degrees) were presented for brief periods under fixation conditions. The magnitude of the Delboeuf illusion increased in old age, while the magnitude of the Usnadze Effect showed no change.", "PMID": 438476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4108", "title": "Age-related differences in two stages of central perceptual processes: the effects of short duration targets and criterion differences.", "content": "Two experiments investigated age differences in speed of central perceptual processes using a dichoptic backward masking paradigm. Twelve young (mean age = 19.6 years) and 12 old (mean age = 68.5 years) adults served as subjects. Exp. 1 examined age differences in speed of central perceptual processes using an ascending limits procedure and forced-choice responding to control for criterion differences. Target durations from 2 to 30 msec were used to further test the fit of young and elderly masking functions to the additive rule believed to describe masking which arises centrally (Turvey, 1973). Results from Exp. 1 showed a 33% slower speed of processing in the elderly sample. Furthermore, masking functions for both age groups fit the central rule across the wide range of target durations used. Exp. 2 examined the perceptual detectability of a 2- and 20-msec target at 7 stimulus onset asynchronies between target and masking stimuli using a forced-choice procedure. Subanalysis of two different components of the observed masking functions suggested the elderly sample was equally slow in completing both an early and late stage of central perceptual processing.", "contents": "Age-related differences in two stages of central perceptual processes: the effects of short duration targets and criterion differences. Two experiments investigated age differences in speed of central perceptual processes using a dichoptic backward masking paradigm. Twelve young (mean age = 19.6 years) and 12 old (mean age = 68.5 years) adults served as subjects. Exp. 1 examined age differences in speed of central perceptual processes using an ascending limits procedure and forced-choice responding to control for criterion differences. Target durations from 2 to 30 msec were used to further test the fit of young and elderly masking functions to the additive rule believed to describe masking which arises centrally (Turvey, 1973). Results from Exp. 1 showed a 33% slower speed of processing in the elderly sample. Furthermore, masking functions for both age groups fit the central rule across the wide range of target durations used. Exp. 2 examined the perceptual detectability of a 2- and 20-msec target at 7 stimulus onset asynchronies between target and masking stimuli using a forced-choice procedure. Subanalysis of two different components of the observed masking functions suggested the elderly sample was equally slow in completing both an early and late stage of central perceptual processing.", "PMID": 438477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4109", "title": "A long-term longitudinal study of intellectual ability of older adults: the matter of selective subject attrition.", "content": "Two hundred and forty-six subjects aged 60 to 94 were tested with the WAIS at test session 1, the start of a longitudinal study which lasted approximately 20 years. The subject attrition from the first session to the last (session No. 11) was progressive and selective, leaving mainly the intellectually superior ones in the study. Two facts appeared particularly important: One, little intellectual decline was seen in these superior subjects until very late in life. Two, analyses based on such superior subjects without reference to the larger body of subject populations can lead to spurious generalizations about aging in general. Age decline in intellectual ability seen in more representative populations may not be apparent when analyzing data of select samples.", "contents": "A long-term longitudinal study of intellectual ability of older adults: the matter of selective subject attrition. Two hundred and forty-six subjects aged 60 to 94 were tested with the WAIS at test session 1, the start of a longitudinal study which lasted approximately 20 years. The subject attrition from the first session to the last (session No. 11) was progressive and selective, leaving mainly the intellectually superior ones in the study. Two facts appeared particularly important: One, little intellectual decline was seen in these superior subjects until very late in life. Two, analyses based on such superior subjects without reference to the larger body of subject populations can lead to spurious generalizations about aging in general. Age decline in intellectual ability seen in more representative populations may not be apparent when analyzing data of select samples.", "PMID": 438478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4110", "title": "WAIS performance for different age groups of hypertensive and control subjects during the administration of a diuretic.", "content": "This study examined the effects of age and hypertension on WAIS performance. Previous studies have reported that hypertension adversely affects cognitive functioning, but few have considered the influence of hypertension on discrete age groups. Hypertension was found to be negatively associated with WAIS Verbal scores for younger (21 to 39 years) but not older (45 to 65 years) subjects. Further, younger subjects attained higher WAIS Performance scores than did older subjects. Medication history was not associated with performance levels for hypertensives, nor was performance of controls influenced by whether or not they were tested while on a diuretic. When WAIS Performance scores were analyzed for subjects matched on WAIS Verbal scores across age (21 to 39 vs 45 to 65 years) and blood pressure (normotensive vs hypertensive), a significant age by blood pressure interaction was found. The effect of blood pressure on Performance scores was found to be greater for younger than for older subjects. The association between plasma renin activity (PRA) level and WAIS Performance scores was also examined. Contrary to previous findings PRA was not related to Performance scores. The results are discussed in the context of previous hypertension research and their implications for comparisons across age levels.", "contents": "WAIS performance for different age groups of hypertensive and control subjects during the administration of a diuretic. This study examined the effects of age and hypertension on WAIS performance. Previous studies have reported that hypertension adversely affects cognitive functioning, but few have considered the influence of hypertension on discrete age groups. Hypertension was found to be negatively associated with WAIS Verbal scores for younger (21 to 39 years) but not older (45 to 65 years) subjects. Further, younger subjects attained higher WAIS Performance scores than did older subjects. Medication history was not associated with performance levels for hypertensives, nor was performance of controls influenced by whether or not they were tested while on a diuretic. When WAIS Performance scores were analyzed for subjects matched on WAIS Verbal scores across age (21 to 39 vs 45 to 65 years) and blood pressure (normotensive vs hypertensive), a significant age by blood pressure interaction was found. The effect of blood pressure on Performance scores was found to be greater for younger than for older subjects. The association between plasma renin activity (PRA) level and WAIS Performance scores was also examined. Contrary to previous findings PRA was not related to Performance scores. The results are discussed in the context of previous hypertension research and their implications for comparisons across age levels.", "PMID": 438479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4111", "title": "Pre-retirement life-style and the degree of planning for retirement.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the pre-retirement life-style of adult men, and both the degree of planning for the retirement years and the decision to retire early. Adult males (N = 360) between 55 and 64 years of age were interviewed about their present leisure life-style and the amount of retirement planning they were doing or had done. In order to determine which demographic, attitudinal and social participation variables predict retirement related behavior, Multiple Classification Analysis (MCA) was used. It was found that socioeconomic status, health, involvement in expressive type organizations, job satisfaction and degree of leisure orientation were associated with pre-retirement attitudes toward retirement.", "contents": "Pre-retirement life-style and the degree of planning for retirement. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the pre-retirement life-style of adult men, and both the degree of planning for the retirement years and the decision to retire early. Adult males (N = 360) between 55 and 64 years of age were interviewed about their present leisure life-style and the amount of retirement planning they were doing or had done. In order to determine which demographic, attitudinal and social participation variables predict retirement related behavior, Multiple Classification Analysis (MCA) was used. It was found that socioeconomic status, health, involvement in expressive type organizations, job satisfaction and degree of leisure orientation were associated with pre-retirement attitudes toward retirement.", "PMID": 438480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4112", "title": "Age and the satisfactions from work.", "content": "This research documents age differences in the relative importance of intrinsic work satisfactions as determinants of the individual's sense of global well-being. Evidence of a decline in the importance of these intrinsic satisfactions for men during the later stages of labor force participation is not an artifact of lower levels of satisfaction. Rather, it appears that toward the end of the period of labor force participation, the satisfactions men derive from work are transferred from the actual experience of work to its consequences. The relevance of the results to early retirement policies is considered. Data used in the analysis come from the 1971 Quality of American Life survey. The national cross-sectional survey allows for comparison of the multivariate structure of life satisfactions among four age groups of labor force participants (i.e., 21-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64).", "contents": "Age and the satisfactions from work. This research documents age differences in the relative importance of intrinsic work satisfactions as determinants of the individual's sense of global well-being. Evidence of a decline in the importance of these intrinsic satisfactions for men during the later stages of labor force participation is not an artifact of lower levels of satisfaction. Rather, it appears that toward the end of the period of labor force participation, the satisfactions men derive from work are transferred from the actual experience of work to its consequences. The relevance of the results to early retirement policies is considered. Data used in the analysis come from the 1971 Quality of American Life survey. The national cross-sectional survey allows for comparison of the multivariate structure of life satisfactions among four age groups of labor force participants (i.e., 21-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64).", "PMID": 438481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4113", "title": "Differentials in survivorship of the older populations among areas within a state. The case of Pennsylvania.", "content": "It has often been assumed when making estimates or projections of populations of sub-state areas that survival ratios of the state, region, or even the nation may be used since significant differentials are not expected within the state. The validity of this assumption is questioned, employing single-year-of-age survival ratios estimated for each planning and service area in Pennsylvania. Regression analysis estimations were made to determine whether the survival functions of the areas were statistically the same as the survival functions of the state. The survival functions were partitioned into two groups by age; a 10 to 49 year age group and a 50 to 84+ year age group. Briefly, the results indicated that, at least for Pennsylvania significant differences existed and that these differences are more likely to occur among the older group.", "contents": "Differentials in survivorship of the older populations among areas within a state. The case of Pennsylvania. It has often been assumed when making estimates or projections of populations of sub-state areas that survival ratios of the state, region, or even the nation may be used since significant differentials are not expected within the state. The validity of this assumption is questioned, employing single-year-of-age survival ratios estimated for each planning and service area in Pennsylvania. Regression analysis estimations were made to determine whether the survival functions of the areas were statistically the same as the survival functions of the state. The survival functions were partitioned into two groups by age; a 10 to 49 year age group and a 50 to 84+ year age group. Briefly, the results indicated that, at least for Pennsylvania significant differences existed and that these differences are more likely to occur among the older group.", "PMID": 438482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4114", "title": "Recovery of sensibility after suture of digital nerves.", "content": "A group of 49 patients with 74 injured digital nerves was studied more than 5 years following epineurial nerve suture. Three tests of return of sensibility were used: von Frey plastic filaments, a modified Weber two-point discrimination device, and a dynamic test--the plastic ridge. The correlation between two-point discrimination and tactilegnosis in the range of 8 to 12 mm was poor. The plastic ridge device detects the presence or absence of tactilegnosis in patients in the intermediate range of two-point discrimination between 8 and 12 mm. Of the factors studied, the patient's age at the time of nerve suture was found to be directly related to the return of sensibility by both two-point discrimination and ridge criteria.", "contents": "Recovery of sensibility after suture of digital nerves. A group of 49 patients with 74 injured digital nerves was studied more than 5 years following epineurial nerve suture. Three tests of return of sensibility were used: von Frey plastic filaments, a modified Weber two-point discrimination device, and a dynamic test--the plastic ridge. The correlation between two-point discrimination and tactilegnosis in the range of 8 to 12 mm was poor. The plastic ridge device detects the presence or absence of tactilegnosis in patients in the intermediate range of two-point discrimination between 8 and 12 mm. Of the factors studied, the patient's age at the time of nerve suture was found to be directly related to the return of sensibility by both two-point discrimination and ridge criteria.", "PMID": 438483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4115", "title": "Skeletal deformities of the denervated hand in Hansen's disease.", "content": "Skeletal deformities of the denervated hand are subtle in their development and pose a more formidable problem than do primary deformities of Hansen's disease. Basic osseous changes consist of concentric, longitudinal, or the longitudinal varying methods of absorption. Knowledge of their pathogenesis provides the basis for their management. Prevention of deformity and conservative management of secondary complications are necessary to salvage as much of the hand as possible.", "contents": "Skeletal deformities of the denervated hand in Hansen's disease. Skeletal deformities of the denervated hand are subtle in their development and pose a more formidable problem than do primary deformities of Hansen's disease. Basic osseous changes consist of concentric, longitudinal, or the longitudinal varying methods of absorption. Knowledge of their pathogenesis provides the basis for their management. Prevention of deformity and conservative management of secondary complications are necessary to salvage as much of the hand as possible.", "PMID": 438484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4116", "title": "Ray transposition for central digital loss.", "content": "In fourteen cases transposition of either the second or fifth ray was used following traumatic amputation of one or both central digits, or in conjunction with surgical removal of either the middle or ring finger when it was rendered useless by trauma, involved with a malignancy, or congenitally hypoplastic. The operative technique consisted of osteotomies at the base of the metacarpals with internal fixation of the transposed ray. When the fifth ray was transposed, the level of division of the bone was such as to provide the appearance of a more normal length of the digit.", "contents": "Ray transposition for central digital loss. In fourteen cases transposition of either the second or fifth ray was used following traumatic amputation of one or both central digits, or in conjunction with surgical removal of either the middle or ring finger when it was rendered useless by trauma, involved with a malignancy, or congenitally hypoplastic. The operative technique consisted of osteotomies at the base of the metacarpals with internal fixation of the transposed ray. When the fifth ray was transposed, the level of division of the bone was such as to provide the appearance of a more normal length of the digit.", "PMID": 438485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4117", "title": "Compartment syndromes of the forearm: early recognition using tissue pressure measurements.", "content": "A compartment syndrome of the forearm can be a devastating injury if not relieved promptly by early fasciotomy. Of five patients who developed compartment syndromes, compartment pressures were measured in four and found to average 69 mm Hg. Tissue pressure measurements provided early objective evidence of the presence of the compartment syndrome and contributed significantly to the ultimate functional recovery. We would advise repeating the measurement for pressures in excess of 30 mm Hg in the upper extremity, and fasciotomy for pressures in excess of 40 mm Hg when accompanied by any neurovascular compromise.", "contents": "Compartment syndromes of the forearm: early recognition using tissue pressure measurements. A compartment syndrome of the forearm can be a devastating injury if not relieved promptly by early fasciotomy. Of five patients who developed compartment syndromes, compartment pressures were measured in four and found to average 69 mm Hg. Tissue pressure measurements provided early objective evidence of the presence of the compartment syndrome and contributed significantly to the ultimate functional recovery. We would advise repeating the measurement for pressures in excess of 30 mm Hg in the upper extremity, and fasciotomy for pressures in excess of 40 mm Hg when accompanied by any neurovascular compromise.", "PMID": 438486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4118", "title": "Fibromatosis of the upper limb.", "content": "Two cases of fibromatosis of the upper limb are presented, neither of which could be placed in a specific category as described in the literature. Both patients were black, and both had a history of previous trauma to the region, which has been regarded as an initiating factor. Emphasis is placed on conservative treatment in order to maintain hand function as long as possible.", "contents": "Fibromatosis of the upper limb. Two cases of fibromatosis of the upper limb are presented, neither of which could be placed in a specific category as described in the literature. Both patients were black, and both had a history of previous trauma to the region, which has been regarded as an initiating factor. Emphasis is placed on conservative treatment in order to maintain hand function as long as possible.", "PMID": 438487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4119", "title": "Iterative image transformations for an automatic screening of cervical smears.", "content": "The new generation of image analysis systems permits the use of iterative image transformations. It is now possible to construct algorithms where the elementary steps are not arithmetic operations but image transformations. This will be illustrated by two examples. In the first, the absorption image of Feulgen Stained nuclei is processed by contrast algorithms in order to detect suspect cells. In the second, free lying cells are separated from overlapping cells and other artefacts by the use of skeletonization procedures.", "contents": "Iterative image transformations for an automatic screening of cervical smears. The new generation of image analysis systems permits the use of iterative image transformations. It is now possible to construct algorithms where the elementary steps are not arithmetic operations but image transformations. This will be illustrated by two examples. In the first, the absorption image of Feulgen Stained nuclei is processed by contrast algorithms in order to detect suspect cells. In the second, free lying cells are separated from overlapping cells and other artefacts by the use of skeletonization procedures.", "PMID": 438499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4120", "title": "Transformation of nuclear morphology during cellular maturation.", "content": "Using in vivo labeling of mouse leukocytes with tritiated thymidine, cells in the neutrophilic series were studied to determine the change in their nuclear shape as a function of maturation level. Several morphologic shape parameters including perimeter and bending energy were used to quantify the distribution of the nuclear morphology in a given age cohort. The change in these distributions as a function of calender age level was determined. The two parameters named above were used to test the possibility of inferring the age from the quantitative morphology.", "contents": "Transformation of nuclear morphology during cellular maturation. Using in vivo labeling of mouse leukocytes with tritiated thymidine, cells in the neutrophilic series were studied to determine the change in their nuclear shape as a function of maturation level. Several morphologic shape parameters including perimeter and bending energy were used to quantify the distribution of the nuclear morphology in a given age cohort. The change in these distributions as a function of calender age level was determined. The two parameters named above were used to test the possibility of inferring the age from the quantitative morphology.", "PMID": 438500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4121", "title": "Light scattering and fluorescence by small particles having internal structure.", "content": "We consider two related, yet distinct queries: 1. How does the internal morphology of a small particle affect the elastic light scattering signals? We have devised an algorithm, presently accurate for particles comparable only to small biological spheres (diameter less than 1 micron), which suggests that light scattering is sensitive to internal morphology only in the backward directions. Accordingly, observations should be obtained in these directions when probing for internal morphology. 2. How are fluorescent signals affected when the active molecules are variously distributed within small particles? One cannot assume that the fluorescent signals are simply proportional to the number of active molecules contained in the particle because there may also be a dependence upon the geometrical and optical properties of the particle and upon the particular spatial distribution of these molecules within the particle. Indeed, even the measured emission spectrum may be affected by such morphological features. Here, too, these calculations are mainly restricted to small particles (diameter less than 1 micron) in which the fluorescent molecules are isotropic and immobile. Under these conditions the effects are quite dramatic. These effects should be considered in quantitative procedures which utilize fluorescence for determining the concentration of specific molecules in small particles such as biological cells. They may provide a clue for discriminating among cells which differ morphologically or in which the spatial distribution of the fluorescent moiety differs. These effects may be minimized by utilizing a light source which is polarized perpendicularly to the scattering plane.", "contents": "Light scattering and fluorescence by small particles having internal structure. We consider two related, yet distinct queries: 1. How does the internal morphology of a small particle affect the elastic light scattering signals? We have devised an algorithm, presently accurate for particles comparable only to small biological spheres (diameter less than 1 micron), which suggests that light scattering is sensitive to internal morphology only in the backward directions. Accordingly, observations should be obtained in these directions when probing for internal morphology. 2. How are fluorescent signals affected when the active molecules are variously distributed within small particles? One cannot assume that the fluorescent signals are simply proportional to the number of active molecules contained in the particle because there may also be a dependence upon the geometrical and optical properties of the particle and upon the particular spatial distribution of these molecules within the particle. Indeed, even the measured emission spectrum may be affected by such morphological features. Here, too, these calculations are mainly restricted to small particles (diameter less than 1 micron) in which the fluorescent molecules are isotropic and immobile. Under these conditions the effects are quite dramatic. These effects should be considered in quantitative procedures which utilize fluorescence for determining the concentration of specific molecules in small particles such as biological cells. They may provide a clue for discriminating among cells which differ morphologically or in which the spatial distribution of the fluorescent moiety differs. These effects may be minimized by utilizing a light source which is polarized perpendicularly to the scattering plane.", "PMID": 438501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4122", "title": "Cell volume decrease during Friend leukemia cell differentiation.", "content": "Friend leukemia cells (GM86, clone 745) were induced to differentiate with dimethyl sulfoxide or butyric acid. The kinetics of induction were measured by cell growth, cell volume distributions, and [3H]thymidine incorporation. From the volume distributions, it was found that the rate of induction was both agent sensitive and concentration dependent. The changes in volume distributions occurred approximately 4 hr earlier with dimethyl sulfoxide induction relative to butyric acid induction. However, the changes with the butyric acid induction were more dependent on concentration. A decrease in labeling indices during the 12- to 20-hr time period was correlated to a decrease in mean cell volume and an increase in the proportion of G1 cells. After the 20-hr time period of induction, an increase in labeling indices and in the percentage of large cells was observed. The data suggest that a transient block of cells in G1 occurred between 12 to 20 hr, and that the early differentiation involved a volume decrease which was related to a redistribution of cell cycle stages. The study was also shown that the changes of cell volume are a rapid monitor to determine the early events of the differentiation process.", "contents": "Cell volume decrease during Friend leukemia cell differentiation. Friend leukemia cells (GM86, clone 745) were induced to differentiate with dimethyl sulfoxide or butyric acid. The kinetics of induction were measured by cell growth, cell volume distributions, and [3H]thymidine incorporation. From the volume distributions, it was found that the rate of induction was both agent sensitive and concentration dependent. The changes in volume distributions occurred approximately 4 hr earlier with dimethyl sulfoxide induction relative to butyric acid induction. However, the changes with the butyric acid induction were more dependent on concentration. A decrease in labeling indices during the 12- to 20-hr time period was correlated to a decrease in mean cell volume and an increase in the proportion of G1 cells. After the 20-hr time period of induction, an increase in labeling indices and in the percentage of large cells was observed. The data suggest that a transient block of cells in G1 occurred between 12 to 20 hr, and that the early differentiation involved a volume decrease which was related to a redistribution of cell cycle stages. The study was also shown that the changes of cell volume are a rapid monitor to determine the early events of the differentiation process.", "PMID": 438503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4123", "title": "Cellular autofluorescence--is it due to flavins?", "content": "For many cell types, cellular autofluorescence in the 500-600 nm spectral region can result in a significant background signal for measurements of weakly fluorescent probes. Measurements of fluorescence intensity and spectra of a variety of cell types and assays of neuronal homogenates are presented to demonstrate that this autofluorescence is most likely due to endogenous flavoproteins.", "contents": "Cellular autofluorescence--is it due to flavins? For many cell types, cellular autofluorescence in the 500-600 nm spectral region can result in a significant background signal for measurements of weakly fluorescent probes. Measurements of fluorescence intensity and spectra of a variety of cell types and assays of neuronal homogenates are presented to demonstrate that this autofluorescence is most likely due to endogenous flavoproteins.", "PMID": 438504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4124", "title": "Polarization of fluorescein fluorescence in single cells.", "content": "Measurement of fluorescence polarization (P) gives information about the immediate environment of the fluorescent molecule. We used a flow polarimeter to investigate the factors influencing P of fluorescein in mammalian cells to determine whether such measurements are useful for characterizing heterogeneous cell populations. Fluorescein was introduced into cells by incubation with FDA. Measurements of the intensity of fluorescence (TI) and polarization (P) revealed an unexpected dependence: P decreased with increasing intensity of fluorescence. This may be accounted for by the classical model of the binding of small molecules to protein in which P is dependent on the ratio bound to unbound molecules. We have been able to estimate the quenching due to binding and construct a Scatchard plot. We estimated a wavelength shift from in vitro data consistent with the dependence of P on wavelength seen in our cell work. Generally, the distributions of P are symmetrical. Photon statistics broadens the P distribution of dim cells. However, structure does develop in the P distribution when the cells are deprived of calcium or incubated in the cold. This appears as a shoulder on the P distribution or resolves into two peaks. Calcium deprivation may differentially affect a subpopulation of cells whose significance remains to be explored in various cell types.", "contents": "Polarization of fluorescein fluorescence in single cells. Measurement of fluorescence polarization (P) gives information about the immediate environment of the fluorescent molecule. We used a flow polarimeter to investigate the factors influencing P of fluorescein in mammalian cells to determine whether such measurements are useful for characterizing heterogeneous cell populations. Fluorescein was introduced into cells by incubation with FDA. Measurements of the intensity of fluorescence (TI) and polarization (P) revealed an unexpected dependence: P decreased with increasing intensity of fluorescence. This may be accounted for by the classical model of the binding of small molecules to protein in which P is dependent on the ratio bound to unbound molecules. We have been able to estimate the quenching due to binding and construct a Scatchard plot. We estimated a wavelength shift from in vitro data consistent with the dependence of P on wavelength seen in our cell work. Generally, the distributions of P are symmetrical. Photon statistics broadens the P distribution of dim cells. However, structure does develop in the P distribution when the cells are deprived of calcium or incubated in the cold. This appears as a shoulder on the P distribution or resolves into two peaks. Calcium deprivation may differentially affect a subpopulation of cells whose significance remains to be explored in various cell types.", "PMID": 438505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4125", "title": "Centrifugal separation of cells in sputum.", "content": "A centrifugation technique was developed and used to separate fixed cells from the sputa of patients with bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma and ones with no evidence of cancer. This article presents the relative frequencies of occurrence of five cell types (i.e., leukocytes, macrophages, squamous, columnar and atypical/cancer) in specimen fractions separated from a discontinuous aqueous Ficoll density gradient. These differential counts show that individual cell types may be selectively collected. Atypical and cancer cells are found at high-density gradient fractions (p congruent to 1.138-1.155 g/ml) with a 10-fold enrichment over unprocessed samples.", "contents": "Centrifugal separation of cells in sputum. A centrifugation technique was developed and used to separate fixed cells from the sputa of patients with bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma and ones with no evidence of cancer. This article presents the relative frequencies of occurrence of five cell types (i.e., leukocytes, macrophages, squamous, columnar and atypical/cancer) in specimen fractions separated from a discontinuous aqueous Ficoll density gradient. These differential counts show that individual cell types may be selectively collected. Atypical and cancer cells are found at high-density gradient fractions (p congruent to 1.138-1.155 g/ml) with a 10-fold enrichment over unprocessed samples.", "PMID": 438506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4126", "title": "A microplate immunoenzyme assay for anti-influenza antibodies.", "content": "An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using horseradish peroxidase is described for the detection and quantitation of anti-influenza virus antibodies. Compared with complement fixation and hemagglutination inhibition tests, ELISA is far superior with respect to sensitivity and reliability. Non-specific viral inhibitors present in sera do not affect the titer in ELISA. Its sensitivity, close to that of radioimmunoassay permits detection of small amounts of antibodies in pulmonary secretions and supernatants from in vitro spleen cell cultures.", "contents": "A microplate immunoenzyme assay for anti-influenza antibodies. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using horseradish peroxidase is described for the detection and quantitation of anti-influenza virus antibodies. Compared with complement fixation and hemagglutination inhibition tests, ELISA is far superior with respect to sensitivity and reliability. Non-specific viral inhibitors present in sera do not affect the titer in ELISA. Its sensitivity, close to that of radioimmunoassay permits detection of small amounts of antibodies in pulmonary secretions and supernatants from in vitro spleen cell cultures.", "PMID": 438513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4127", "title": "Methods for binding cells to plastic: application to a solid-phase radioimmunoassay for cell-surface antigens.", "content": "Two methods are described for attaching cells to plastic plates such that they may be used for antibody binding assays. In the first method, lymphoid cells or erythrocytes were attached to the wells of plastic plates using glutaraldehyde. This resulted in monolayers of fixed cells which retained surface antigens and were stable to storage. The second method involved binding of unfixed cells to the plastic surface by means of antibodies non-specifically adsorbed to the plate. Both methods resulted in cell layers which remained attached to the plate during the washing and incubation procedures of a radioimmunoassay. The cell layers were shown to be suitable for screening the product of hybrid cell lines for the presence of monoclonal antibodies to cell-surface antigens.", "contents": "Methods for binding cells to plastic: application to a solid-phase radioimmunoassay for cell-surface antigens. Two methods are described for attaching cells to plastic plates such that they may be used for antibody binding assays. In the first method, lymphoid cells or erythrocytes were attached to the wells of plastic plates using glutaraldehyde. This resulted in monolayers of fixed cells which retained surface antigens and were stable to storage. The second method involved binding of unfixed cells to the plastic surface by means of antibodies non-specifically adsorbed to the plate. Both methods resulted in cell layers which remained attached to the plate during the washing and incubation procedures of a radioimmunoassay. The cell layers were shown to be suitable for screening the product of hybrid cell lines for the presence of monoclonal antibodies to cell-surface antigens.", "PMID": 438515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4128", "title": "The effect of cryopreservation of lymphocytes on E rosetting ability: a study in lung cancer patients and controls.", "content": "Two methods of measuring total T cell percentages have been used to assess the effect of freezing and storage on the ability of lymphocytes to form rosettes in blood transfusion donors, laboratory staff, patients awaiting surgery for non-malignant conditions and 48 preoperative lung cancer patients. A significant reduction in rosetting ability after freezing was found for the surgical patients group but not for the other groups. With frozen lymphocytes we have found the same significant decrease in the percentage of T cells seen with fresh lymphocytes when lung cancer patients are compared with the blood donor group. A significant difference in the percentage of T cells detected by the two assays with frozen lymphocytes was found in the control groups.", "contents": "The effect of cryopreservation of lymphocytes on E rosetting ability: a study in lung cancer patients and controls. Two methods of measuring total T cell percentages have been used to assess the effect of freezing and storage on the ability of lymphocytes to form rosettes in blood transfusion donors, laboratory staff, patients awaiting surgery for non-malignant conditions and 48 preoperative lung cancer patients. A significant reduction in rosetting ability after freezing was found for the surgical patients group but not for the other groups. With frozen lymphocytes we have found the same significant decrease in the percentage of T cells seen with fresh lymphocytes when lung cancer patients are compared with the blood donor group. A significant difference in the percentage of T cells detected by the two assays with frozen lymphocytes was found in the control groups.", "PMID": 438516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4129", "title": "Recovery of soluble feline oncornavirus-associated cell membrane antigen from large volumes of tissue culture fluids.", "content": "Feline oncornavirus-associated cell membrane antigen (FOCMA), which is released spontaneously in tissue culture, was harvested from large volumes of culture fluid. Continuous-flow molecular filtration was the method of choice for concentrating the component. The yield of antigen recovered, as determined by cytotoxicity inhibition, was equal to that recovered with concentration in cellulose membrane tubing against polyethylene glycol and half that obtained by lyophilization. The latter two techniques were found to be impractical for handling large volumes of material. However, lyophilization was used for the final concentration step following volume reduction to approximately 300 ml in the molecular filtration system. Antigen yields were equivalent when removing salt by constant-volume molecular washing, prior to concentration in the filtration system, or when removing salt by conventional diffusion through cellulose membrane tubing.", "contents": "Recovery of soluble feline oncornavirus-associated cell membrane antigen from large volumes of tissue culture fluids. Feline oncornavirus-associated cell membrane antigen (FOCMA), which is released spontaneously in tissue culture, was harvested from large volumes of culture fluid. Continuous-flow molecular filtration was the method of choice for concentrating the component. The yield of antigen recovered, as determined by cytotoxicity inhibition, was equal to that recovered with concentration in cellulose membrane tubing against polyethylene glycol and half that obtained by lyophilization. The latter two techniques were found to be impractical for handling large volumes of material. However, lyophilization was used for the final concentration step following volume reduction to approximately 300 ml in the molecular filtration system. Antigen yields were equivalent when removing salt by constant-volume molecular washing, prior to concentration in the filtration system, or when removing salt by conventional diffusion through cellulose membrane tubing.", "PMID": 438517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4130", "title": "Circulating immune complexes in experimental streptococcal endocarditis: a monitor of therapeutic efficacy.", "content": "An important problem in the management of infective endocarditis has been the delineation of laboratory procedures that are sensitive, reliable indicators of therapeutic efficacy. Because circulating, complement-containing immune complexes of the IgG type (CICs) have been demonstrated in most humans with infective endocarditis, serum CIC levels during the natural course of the infection and in response to penicillin therapy were studied in 42 rabbits with right-sided endocarditis due to Streptococcus salivarius. A significant rise in the level of CICs in both 21 control rabbits and 21 treated rabbits was observed after induction but before treatment of infective endocarditis (P less than 0.01). In the 17 successfully treated rabbits, CIC levels fell sharply during the first week of therapy and remained at preinduction levels thereafter (P less than 0.005). In contrast, CIC values did not change significantly either in control animals or in the four treated animals with refractory endocarditis, although in the latter animals, serum bactericidal titers remained less than or equal to 1:32. These findings suggest that serial measurements of CIC levels during antimicrobial therapy of infective endocarditis may aid in monitoring therapeutic efficacy.", "contents": "Circulating immune complexes in experimental streptococcal endocarditis: a monitor of therapeutic efficacy. An important problem in the management of infective endocarditis has been the delineation of laboratory procedures that are sensitive, reliable indicators of therapeutic efficacy. Because circulating, complement-containing immune complexes of the IgG type (CICs) have been demonstrated in most humans with infective endocarditis, serum CIC levels during the natural course of the infection and in response to penicillin therapy were studied in 42 rabbits with right-sided endocarditis due to Streptococcus salivarius. A significant rise in the level of CICs in both 21 control rabbits and 21 treated rabbits was observed after induction but before treatment of infective endocarditis (P less than 0.01). In the 17 successfully treated rabbits, CIC levels fell sharply during the first week of therapy and remained at preinduction levels thereafter (P less than 0.005). In contrast, CIC values did not change significantly either in control animals or in the four treated animals with refractory endocarditis, although in the latter animals, serum bactericidal titers remained less than or equal to 1:32. These findings suggest that serial measurements of CIC levels during antimicrobial therapy of infective endocarditis may aid in monitoring therapeutic efficacy.", "PMID": 438528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4131", "title": "Plasmid-mediated, transferable resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin in Bacteroides fragilis.", "content": "A clindamycin- and erythromycin-resistant strain of Bacteroides fragilis, TMP10, that had been isolated from a blood culture transferred its drug resistance in a Millipore mating procedure to another strain of B. fragilis, TM2000, and to a strain of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. Donor strain TMP10 contained numerous species of extrachromosomal DNA ranging from approximately 2 x 10(6) to 20 x 10(6) daltons in molecular weight, as revealed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Clindamycin- and erythromycin-resistant transcipient cells of B. fragilis strain TM2000 always contained at least two plasmid species with molecular weights of 2 x 10(6) and 20 x 10(6) daltons, respectively, although other plasmid species were also transferred.", "contents": "Plasmid-mediated, transferable resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin in Bacteroides fragilis. A clindamycin- and erythromycin-resistant strain of Bacteroides fragilis, TMP10, that had been isolated from a blood culture transferred its drug resistance in a Millipore mating procedure to another strain of B. fragilis, TM2000, and to a strain of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. Donor strain TMP10 contained numerous species of extrachromosomal DNA ranging from approximately 2 x 10(6) to 20 x 10(6) daltons in molecular weight, as revealed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Clindamycin- and erythromycin-resistant transcipient cells of B. fragilis strain TM2000 always contained at least two plasmid species with molecular weights of 2 x 10(6) and 20 x 10(6) daltons, respectively, although other plasmid species were also transferred.", "PMID": 438530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4132", "title": "Enterobacter cloacae septicemia in a burn center: epidemiology and control of an outbreak.", "content": "An outbreak of infections due to Enterobacter cloacae occurred in the burn center at the Medical College of Virginia (Richmond, Virginia) in 1976. Fifteen patients had bacteremia due to E. cloacae; 10 cases of bacteremia occurred during a six-week period in January and February. The development of bacteremia was significantly related to the extent of third-degree burn and to admission to the burn center in January and February but not to the presence of an intravenous cannula, underlying disease, or antimicrobial therapy. E. cloacae was spread by contaminated hands of personnel and by cross-contamination of hydrotherapy water. A shortage of staff appeared to be an important factor in the occurrence of the outbreak. Control measures included an increase in the number of personnel, instruction of personnel in proper aseptic technique, and adoption of a new hydrotherapy protocol.", "contents": "Enterobacter cloacae septicemia in a burn center: epidemiology and control of an outbreak. An outbreak of infections due to Enterobacter cloacae occurred in the burn center at the Medical College of Virginia (Richmond, Virginia) in 1976. Fifteen patients had bacteremia due to E. cloacae; 10 cases of bacteremia occurred during a six-week period in January and February. The development of bacteremia was significantly related to the extent of third-degree burn and to admission to the burn center in January and February but not to the presence of an intravenous cannula, underlying disease, or antimicrobial therapy. E. cloacae was spread by contaminated hands of personnel and by cross-contamination of hydrotherapy water. A shortage of staff appeared to be an important factor in the occurrence of the outbreak. Control measures included an increase in the number of personnel, instruction of personnel in proper aseptic technique, and adoption of a new hydrotherapy protocol.", "PMID": 438531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4133", "title": "Marked differences between pigmented and albino rabbits in the concentration of clindamycin in iris and choroid-retina.", "content": "The concentrations of clindamycin were significantly higher in iris and choroid-retina or pigmented rabbits than in those of albino rabbits after subconjunctival injection. Equilibrium dialysis experiments showed no affinity of clindamycin for synthetic melanin or for collagenase digests of pigmented tissues. In contrast, strips of iris and choroid-retina took up clindamycin rapidly from solution, achieving concentrations substantially higher than those in the medium. Uptake by tissue strips was not influenced by temperature (4 C vs. 37 C), cyanide, or ouabain. However, N-ethylmaleimide, which reacts with sulfhydryl groups, decreased the tissue-to-medium ratios by about 50% for both albino and pigmented choroid-retina. Even in the presence of this inhibitor, the ratio for pigmented tissues remained higher than that for albino specimens. These findings suggest the existence of one, or possibly two, mechanisms of energy-independent accumulation of clindamycin by pigmented ocular tissues: one may relate to protein sulfhydryl bonds that are present in both breeds; the other may involve the pigmentation apparatus.", "contents": "Marked differences between pigmented and albino rabbits in the concentration of clindamycin in iris and choroid-retina. The concentrations of clindamycin were significantly higher in iris and choroid-retina or pigmented rabbits than in those of albino rabbits after subconjunctival injection. Equilibrium dialysis experiments showed no affinity of clindamycin for synthetic melanin or for collagenase digests of pigmented tissues. In contrast, strips of iris and choroid-retina took up clindamycin rapidly from solution, achieving concentrations substantially higher than those in the medium. Uptake by tissue strips was not influenced by temperature (4 C vs. 37 C), cyanide, or ouabain. However, N-ethylmaleimide, which reacts with sulfhydryl groups, decreased the tissue-to-medium ratios by about 50% for both albino and pigmented choroid-retina. Even in the presence of this inhibitor, the ratio for pigmented tissues remained higher than that for albino specimens. These findings suggest the existence of one, or possibly two, mechanisms of energy-independent accumulation of clindamycin by pigmented ocular tissues: one may relate to protein sulfhydryl bonds that are present in both breeds; the other may involve the pigmentation apparatus.", "PMID": 438532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4134", "title": "Levels of exfoliatin antitoxin in pooled human serum globulin.", "content": "The potential value of human serum globulin for treatment of patients with the staphylococcal scalded-skin syndrome was determined by measuring the exfoliatin antitoxin content of globulin pools. Of 16 lots tested, only four had detectable antitoxin activity, and in these the levels were minimal. These findings suggest that pooled serum globulin is not a practical source of exfoliatin antitoxin.", "contents": "Levels of exfoliatin antitoxin in pooled human serum globulin. The potential value of human serum globulin for treatment of patients with the staphylococcal scalded-skin syndrome was determined by measuring the exfoliatin antitoxin content of globulin pools. Of 16 lots tested, only four had detectable antitoxin activity, and in these the levels were minimal. These findings suggest that pooled serum globulin is not a practical source of exfoliatin antitoxin.", "PMID": 438533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4135", "title": "Effect of chloramphenicol on in vitro function of lymphocytes.", "content": "The effect of chloramphenicol on the in vitro function of human peripheral blood lymphocytes was studied in assays of lymphocyte transformation and lymphokine production. When lymphocytes were stimulated by phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, or pokeweed mitogen in the presence of various concentrations of chloramphenicol, only minimal effects on blastogenesis were noted. However, suppression by chloramphenicol of blastogenesis induced by candida antigen or streptokinase-streptodornase was greater in magnitude and was dose-dependent; blastogenesis was suppressed to 25%--30% or normal levels by concentrations of chloramphenicol of 25--50 microgram/ml. Chloramphenicol had little effect on the production of the lymphokine leukocyte migration inhibition factor by lymphocytes stimulated either by candida antigen or by concanavalin A, whereas puromycin at a concentration of 5 microgram/ml significantly suppressed this response. Thus chloramphenicol appears to suppress antigen-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis significantly but not lymphokine production by stimulated lymphocytes.", "contents": "Effect of chloramphenicol on in vitro function of lymphocytes. The effect of chloramphenicol on the in vitro function of human peripheral blood lymphocytes was studied in assays of lymphocyte transformation and lymphokine production. When lymphocytes were stimulated by phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, or pokeweed mitogen in the presence of various concentrations of chloramphenicol, only minimal effects on blastogenesis were noted. However, suppression by chloramphenicol of blastogenesis induced by candida antigen or streptokinase-streptodornase was greater in magnitude and was dose-dependent; blastogenesis was suppressed to 25%--30% or normal levels by concentrations of chloramphenicol of 25--50 microgram/ml. Chloramphenicol had little effect on the production of the lymphokine leukocyte migration inhibition factor by lymphocytes stimulated either by candida antigen or by concanavalin A, whereas puromycin at a concentration of 5 microgram/ml significantly suppressed this response. Thus chloramphenicol appears to suppress antigen-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis significantly but not lymphokine production by stimulated lymphocytes.", "PMID": 438534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4136", "title": "Resistance to Listeria monocytogenes in mice: genetic control by genes that are not linked to the H-2 complex.", "content": "After mice of several inbred strains were injected with Listeria monoyctogenes, two parameters of resistance, the 50% lethal dose and the suppression of bacterial proliferation in spleen, were determined. The strains of mice tested could be segregated into two groups: the resistant C57BL/10Sn mice and the sensitive A/J and DBA/2J mice. Congenic resistant strains of mice were used because they would express the H-2 haplotype of the sensitive strains (H-2a or H-2d) on the background of a resistant strain, C57BL/10Sn. Both the B10.A/SgSn (H-2a) and the B10.D2/Sn (H-2d) mice were as resistant as mice from their background strain and were significantly more resistant than the strains that donated their H-2 locus (A/J or DBA/2J). Therefore, the resistance of mice to Listeria, although genetically controlled, is not controlled by gene (s) linked to the H-2 haplotype. On the other hand, the level of specific immunity to listeria antigens (as indicated by the footpad reaction) was higher in the C57BL/10Sn (H-2b) mice than in either the A/J and B10.A/SgSn (H-2a) mice or the DBA/2J and B10.D2/Sn (H-2d) mice. This observation suggests an H-2 linkage of specific immunity to Listeria.", "contents": "Resistance to Listeria monocytogenes in mice: genetic control by genes that are not linked to the H-2 complex. After mice of several inbred strains were injected with Listeria monoyctogenes, two parameters of resistance, the 50% lethal dose and the suppression of bacterial proliferation in spleen, were determined. The strains of mice tested could be segregated into two groups: the resistant C57BL/10Sn mice and the sensitive A/J and DBA/2J mice. Congenic resistant strains of mice were used because they would express the H-2 haplotype of the sensitive strains (H-2a or H-2d) on the background of a resistant strain, C57BL/10Sn. Both the B10.A/SgSn (H-2a) and the B10.D2/Sn (H-2d) mice were as resistant as mice from their background strain and were significantly more resistant than the strains that donated their H-2 locus (A/J or DBA/2J). Therefore, the resistance of mice to Listeria, although genetically controlled, is not controlled by gene (s) linked to the H-2 haplotype. On the other hand, the level of specific immunity to listeria antigens (as indicated by the footpad reaction) was higher in the C57BL/10Sn (H-2b) mice than in either the A/J and B10.A/SgSn (H-2a) mice or the DBA/2J and B10.D2/Sn (H-2d) mice. This observation suggests an H-2 linkage of specific immunity to Listeria.", "PMID": 438535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4137", "title": "Infection with Chlamydia trachomatis: involvement of multiple anatomic sites in neonates.", "content": "In a study of infection due to Chlamydia trachomatis in infants, chlamydiae were recovered not only from the conjunctiva and respiratory tract but also from the vagina and rectum. The timing of recovery suggested that the vagina and conjunctivae are exposed to chlamydiae at birth and that pneumonia and gastrointestinal infection occur later. Sampling of the rectum may be a useful procedure for the diagnosis of chlamydial disease in infants.", "contents": "Infection with Chlamydia trachomatis: involvement of multiple anatomic sites in neonates. In a study of infection due to Chlamydia trachomatis in infants, chlamydiae were recovered not only from the conjunctiva and respiratory tract but also from the vagina and rectum. The timing of recovery suggested that the vagina and conjunctivae are exposed to chlamydiae at birth and that pneumonia and gastrointestinal infection occur later. Sampling of the rectum may be a useful procedure for the diagnosis of chlamydial disease in infants.", "PMID": 438536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4138", "title": "Unmasking of actual and potential receptor sites for cholera toxin in intestinal mucosal homogenates.", "content": "Endongenous and exogenous sialidases appear to unmask sialidase-stable and sialidase-labile gangliosides in intestinal mucosal homogenates by attacking glycoproteins. Exogenous (but not endogenous) sialidase then converts sialidase-labile gangliosides into the cholera toxin-binding, sialidase-stable ganglioside GM1 (galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl [sialosyl] lactosyl ceramide). Since Vibrio cholerae produces sialidase, these observations may be relevant to the course of cholera.", "contents": "Unmasking of actual and potential receptor sites for cholera toxin in intestinal mucosal homogenates. Endongenous and exogenous sialidases appear to unmask sialidase-stable and sialidase-labile gangliosides in intestinal mucosal homogenates by attacking glycoproteins. Exogenous (but not endogenous) sialidase then converts sialidase-labile gangliosides into the cholera toxin-binding, sialidase-stable ganglioside GM1 (galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl [sialosyl] lactosyl ceramide). Since Vibrio cholerae produces sialidase, these observations may be relevant to the course of cholera.", "PMID": 438537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4139", "title": "Defective leukotaxis in monocytes from patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.", "content": "Because the accumulation of macrophages and their precursors, peripheral blood monocytes, in foci of infection is an important feature of the host reponse to mycobacterial challenge, the leukotactic responsiveness of monocytes from patients with active tuberculosis was evaluated. With a double-filter, in vitro technique, defective leukotaxis was demonstrated in monocytes from 19 of 20 untreated patients, whereas normal leukotactic responses were found in monocytes from 11 of 15 patients with chronic, nontuberculous pulmonary inflammatory diseases. This defect may be related to increased activity of a naturally occurring, heat-stable plasma substance with a molecular mass of approximately 2.3 x 10(5) daltons that inhibited leukotactic responsiveness. Monocyte leukotaxis improved and the leukotactic inhibitory activity of plasma disappeared in most patients while they were on therapy; these phenomena were unrelated to bacteriologic conversion or resolution of symptoms. In vitro studies with isoniazid, ethambutol, and rifampin excluded a direct effect of these drugs or their metabolites on monocytes or on the leukotactic inhibitor in plasma. Thus, defective leukotaxis of monocytes in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis may be an epiphenomenon of the local tissue reaction.", "contents": "Defective leukotaxis in monocytes from patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Because the accumulation of macrophages and their precursors, peripheral blood monocytes, in foci of infection is an important feature of the host reponse to mycobacterial challenge, the leukotactic responsiveness of monocytes from patients with active tuberculosis was evaluated. With a double-filter, in vitro technique, defective leukotaxis was demonstrated in monocytes from 19 of 20 untreated patients, whereas normal leukotactic responses were found in monocytes from 11 of 15 patients with chronic, nontuberculous pulmonary inflammatory diseases. This defect may be related to increased activity of a naturally occurring, heat-stable plasma substance with a molecular mass of approximately 2.3 x 10(5) daltons that inhibited leukotactic responsiveness. Monocyte leukotaxis improved and the leukotactic inhibitory activity of plasma disappeared in most patients while they were on therapy; these phenomena were unrelated to bacteriologic conversion or resolution of symptoms. In vitro studies with isoniazid, ethambutol, and rifampin excluded a direct effect of these drugs or their metabolites on monocytes or on the leukotactic inhibitor in plasma. Thus, defective leukotaxis of monocytes in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis may be an epiphenomenon of the local tissue reaction.", "PMID": 438541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4140", "title": "Detection of tobramycin- and netilmicin-induced ototoxicity in guinea pigs with evoked action potentials.", "content": "To evaluate the action potentials evoked in the cochlea in aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity, 80 guinea pigs were given 25, 50, 75, or 100 mg of tobramycin or netilmicin/kg per day for 14 or 28 days. Ten other guinea pigs (controls) were given 200 mg of ampicillin/kg per day for 14 or 28 days. Cochlear evoked action potentials (CEAP) before and after treatment were measured, and the cochlea was examined microscopically after treatment. Comparison of initial and final values showed that the threshold of the main negative (N1) wave rose (p less than 0.00001 for dose and duration factors), the amplitude decreased (P less than 0.00001 for dose factors at sound intensities of 120 and 90 dB, P less than 0.001 at 70 dB), and the latency lengthened (P less than 0.0001 for dose factors at 120 and 90 dB). The CEAP method appeared to be more sensitive than microscopic examination of the cochlea for detection of ototoxicity induced by the lower dosages of the aminoglycosides. No significant differences were observed between the effects of tobramycin and netilmicin. In conclusion, the CEAP method appears to be a promising tool for detection of aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity.", "contents": "Detection of tobramycin- and netilmicin-induced ototoxicity in guinea pigs with evoked action potentials. To evaluate the action potentials evoked in the cochlea in aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity, 80 guinea pigs were given 25, 50, 75, or 100 mg of tobramycin or netilmicin/kg per day for 14 or 28 days. Ten other guinea pigs (controls) were given 200 mg of ampicillin/kg per day for 14 or 28 days. Cochlear evoked action potentials (CEAP) before and after treatment were measured, and the cochlea was examined microscopically after treatment. Comparison of initial and final values showed that the threshold of the main negative (N1) wave rose (p less than 0.00001 for dose and duration factors), the amplitude decreased (P less than 0.00001 for dose factors at sound intensities of 120 and 90 dB, P less than 0.001 at 70 dB), and the latency lengthened (P less than 0.0001 for dose factors at 120 and 90 dB). The CEAP method appeared to be more sensitive than microscopic examination of the cochlea for detection of ototoxicity induced by the lower dosages of the aminoglycosides. No significant differences were observed between the effects of tobramycin and netilmicin. In conclusion, the CEAP method appears to be a promising tool for detection of aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity.", "PMID": 438542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4141", "title": "5-fluorocytosine: inhibition of hematopoiesis in vitro and reversal of inhibition by uracil.", "content": "The in vitro effect of 5-fluorocytosine on human and murine hematopoiesis was studied by means of soft-gel assays for erythroid and myeloid colony-forming cells. The drug consistently inhibited colony formation by granulocyte-monocyte and erythroid precursor cells. Clear effects were observable at concentrations of 5-fluorocytosine of 5 x 10(-5) M (6.5 micrograms/ml), and concentrations of 5 x 10(-4) M (65 micrograms/ml) caused approximately 90% inhibition of cloning of bone marrow myeloid colony-forming cells from mice and normal humans. Greater concentrations of 5-fluorocytosine were required to inhibit erythroid progenitors than to inhibit myeloid precursors. Uracil competitively reversed the toxicity of 5-fluorocytosine. Our data strongly suggest that the hematopoietic toxicity of 5-5-fluorocytosine is mediated through cellular metabolism of the drug. The reversal of mammalian, but not of fungal, cytotoxic effects of 5-fluorocytosine by uracil may have important clinical applications.", "contents": "5-fluorocytosine: inhibition of hematopoiesis in vitro and reversal of inhibition by uracil. The in vitro effect of 5-fluorocytosine on human and murine hematopoiesis was studied by means of soft-gel assays for erythroid and myeloid colony-forming cells. The drug consistently inhibited colony formation by granulocyte-monocyte and erythroid precursor cells. Clear effects were observable at concentrations of 5-fluorocytosine of 5 x 10(-5) M (6.5 micrograms/ml), and concentrations of 5 x 10(-4) M (65 micrograms/ml) caused approximately 90% inhibition of cloning of bone marrow myeloid colony-forming cells from mice and normal humans. Greater concentrations of 5-fluorocytosine were required to inhibit erythroid progenitors than to inhibit myeloid precursors. Uracil competitively reversed the toxicity of 5-fluorocytosine. Our data strongly suggest that the hematopoietic toxicity of 5-5-fluorocytosine is mediated through cellular metabolism of the drug. The reversal of mammalian, but not of fungal, cytotoxic effects of 5-fluorocytosine by uracil may have important clinical applications.", "PMID": 438544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4142", "title": "Preparation of competent single-cell suspensions of Mycoplasma hominis tets and Mycoplasma salivarium tets for genetic transformation to tetracycline resistance by DNA extracted from Mycoplamsa hominis tetr.", "content": "DNA extracted from Mycomplasma hominis (Sprott strain), resistant to 100 micrograms of tetracycline/ml transformed M. hominis strain H29 and Mycoplasma salivarium strain S9, which are sensitive to 2.5 and 5.0 micrograms of tetracycline/ml, respectively, to resistance. The transformants were selected on agar medium containing 10 micrograms of tetracycline/ml. Some transformants were resistant also to 20 micrograms of tetracycline/ml, a finding confirming that transformation occurred between homologous and heterologous species and that resistance is stepwise and controlled by several genetic loci. Medium containing 10 micrograms of tetracycline/ml was bacteriostatic. Prototype experiments employing mixtures of strains that were tetr and tets (tetracycline-resistant and tetracycline-sensitive, respectively) demonstrated that tetr mutants and transformants formed typical fried-egg colonies when mixtures containing not more than 10(9) mycoplasmas were spread on tetracycline agar plates. No mutants to tetracycline resistance were detected. Both M. hominis and M. salivarium were competent after treatment with MgCl2 and CaCl2, while Mycoplasma orale type 2 was inactivated. During DNA extraction different quantities of DNA formed insoluble precipitates with protein, thus preventing quantitative experiments.", "contents": "Preparation of competent single-cell suspensions of Mycoplasma hominis tets and Mycoplasma salivarium tets for genetic transformation to tetracycline resistance by DNA extracted from Mycoplamsa hominis tetr. DNA extracted from Mycomplasma hominis (Sprott strain), resistant to 100 micrograms of tetracycline/ml transformed M. hominis strain H29 and Mycoplasma salivarium strain S9, which are sensitive to 2.5 and 5.0 micrograms of tetracycline/ml, respectively, to resistance. The transformants were selected on agar medium containing 10 micrograms of tetracycline/ml. Some transformants were resistant also to 20 micrograms of tetracycline/ml, a finding confirming that transformation occurred between homologous and heterologous species and that resistance is stepwise and controlled by several genetic loci. Medium containing 10 micrograms of tetracycline/ml was bacteriostatic. Prototype experiments employing mixtures of strains that were tetr and tets (tetracycline-resistant and tetracycline-sensitive, respectively) demonstrated that tetr mutants and transformants formed typical fried-egg colonies when mixtures containing not more than 10(9) mycoplasmas were spread on tetracycline agar plates. No mutants to tetracycline resistance were detected. Both M. hominis and M. salivarium were competent after treatment with MgCl2 and CaCl2, while Mycoplasma orale type 2 was inactivated. During DNA extraction different quantities of DNA formed insoluble precipitates with protein, thus preventing quantitative experiments.", "PMID": 438545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4143", "title": "Synergy of vancomycin plus cefazolin or cephalothin against methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus epidermidis.", "content": "The in vitro activity of cephalothin, cefazolin, and vancomycin against 25 isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis was determined by means of a broth dilution technique with two sizes of inoculum. The size of the inoculum had a marked effect on the minimal inhibitory concentrations and the minimal bactericidal concentrations of all three antibiotics. With a small inoculum, 100% of the isolates were inhibited by 3.12 micrograms of vancomycin/ml, 76% by 12.5 micrograms of cephalothin/ml, and 64% by 12.5 micrograms of cefazolin/ml. With a large inoculum 100% of the isolates were inhibited by 200 micrograms of vancomycin/ml, 40% by 12.5 micrograms of cephalothin/ml, and 12% by 12.5 micrograms of cefazolin/ml. As determined by a tube dilution checkerboard technique for both sizes of inoculum, the combination of vancomycin plus cephalothin was synergistic against methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis in 45 of 50 cases, and the combination of vancomycin plus cefazolin was synergistic in 39 or 50 cases. These data from in vitro studies suggest that these antibiotic combinations should be evaluated clinically in patients with severe infections caused by methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis.", "contents": "Synergy of vancomycin plus cefazolin or cephalothin against methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus epidermidis. The in vitro activity of cephalothin, cefazolin, and vancomycin against 25 isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis was determined by means of a broth dilution technique with two sizes of inoculum. The size of the inoculum had a marked effect on the minimal inhibitory concentrations and the minimal bactericidal concentrations of all three antibiotics. With a small inoculum, 100% of the isolates were inhibited by 3.12 micrograms of vancomycin/ml, 76% by 12.5 micrograms of cephalothin/ml, and 64% by 12.5 micrograms of cefazolin/ml. With a large inoculum 100% of the isolates were inhibited by 200 micrograms of vancomycin/ml, 40% by 12.5 micrograms of cephalothin/ml, and 12% by 12.5 micrograms of cefazolin/ml. As determined by a tube dilution checkerboard technique for both sizes of inoculum, the combination of vancomycin plus cephalothin was synergistic against methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis in 45 of 50 cases, and the combination of vancomycin plus cefazolin was synergistic in 39 or 50 cases. These data from in vitro studies suggest that these antibiotic combinations should be evaluated clinically in patients with severe infections caused by methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis.", "PMID": 438546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4144", "title": "Non-B hepatitis in Japanese recipients of blood transfusions: clinical and serologic studies after the introduction of laboratory screening of donor blood for hepatitis B surface antigen.", "content": "Cases of hepatitis virus infection in Japanese recipients of blood transfusions were serologically and clinically analyzed after the introduction of laboratory screening of donor blood for hepatitis B surface antigen by counter immunoelectrophoresis. Non-A, non-B hepatitis occurred in 116 (10.7%) and hepatitis type B in nine (0.9%) of the 1,082 recipients. The incubation period of the post-transfusion non-A, non-B hepatitis cases varied from two to 33 weeks, but most occurred within 15 weeks. In 97 (83.6%) of the 116 cases of non-A, non-B hepatitis studied, the duration of abnormal elevation of the level of serum alanine aminotransferase (glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [SGPT]) was 16 weeks. The cases of non-A, non-B hepatitis could be divided into three groups according to the pattern of elevation of SGPT levels. These findings may suggest either a multiple etiology for non-A, non-B hepatitis or a variety of clinical symptoms with a single etiology for the infection.", "contents": "Non-B hepatitis in Japanese recipients of blood transfusions: clinical and serologic studies after the introduction of laboratory screening of donor blood for hepatitis B surface antigen. Cases of hepatitis virus infection in Japanese recipients of blood transfusions were serologically and clinically analyzed after the introduction of laboratory screening of donor blood for hepatitis B surface antigen by counter immunoelectrophoresis. Non-A, non-B hepatitis occurred in 116 (10.7%) and hepatitis type B in nine (0.9%) of the 1,082 recipients. The incubation period of the post-transfusion non-A, non-B hepatitis cases varied from two to 33 weeks, but most occurred within 15 weeks. In 97 (83.6%) of the 116 cases of non-A, non-B hepatitis studied, the duration of abnormal elevation of the level of serum alanine aminotransferase (glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [SGPT]) was 16 weeks. The cases of non-A, non-B hepatitis could be divided into three groups according to the pattern of elevation of SGPT levels. These findings may suggest either a multiple etiology for non-A, non-B hepatitis or a variety of clinical symptoms with a single etiology for the infection.", "PMID": 438550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4145", "title": "Comparison of the features of astroviruses and caliciviruses seen in samples of feces by electron microscopy.", "content": "Astroviruses and caliciviruses may both be observed in the feces of babies by electron microscopy and are two of the viruses whose relationship to infantile diarrhea is still being established. Although similar in size and in their star-shaped surface configurations, they differ in detailed structure. The astrovirus has a round unbroken edge, a six-pointed star with a white center, and surface hollows that are triangular. The calicivirus has a feathery edge, a six-pointed star with a dark hollow in the center (Star-of-David) appearance), and surface hollows that appear round or oval. Because only a minority of the virions of both viruses exhibit a completely characteristic structure, careful searching may be necessary to distinguish between the two viruses.", "contents": "Comparison of the features of astroviruses and caliciviruses seen in samples of feces by electron microscopy. Astroviruses and caliciviruses may both be observed in the feces of babies by electron microscopy and are two of the viruses whose relationship to infantile diarrhea is still being established. Although similar in size and in their star-shaped surface configurations, they differ in detailed structure. The astrovirus has a round unbroken edge, a six-pointed star with a white center, and surface hollows that are triangular. The calicivirus has a feathery edge, a six-pointed star with a dark hollow in the center (Star-of-David) appearance), and surface hollows that appear round or oval. Because only a minority of the virions of both viruses exhibit a completely characteristic structure, careful searching may be necessary to distinguish between the two viruses.", "PMID": 438551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4146", "title": "Seroepidemiology of infection with hepatitis A and B viruses in an isolated Pacific population.", "content": "To determine the prevalence of infection with hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B virus in an isolated population, samples of serum were collected from 574 healthy subjects living on the remote Pacific Island of Funafuti. Each specimen was tested for antibody to hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B surface antigen, and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen by solid-phase radioimmunoassay. Overall, 79.8% of the population showed evidence of previous infection with hepatitis A virus, and 72.5% with hepatitis B virus; the high prevalence of antibody to both viruses in young adults suggested that the majority of infections were acquired in the first decade of life. Although it is known that hepatitis B virus maintains itself in isolated populations through a reservoir of chronic carriers, the reason for the persistently high rate of infection with hepatitis A virus is unknown.", "contents": "Seroepidemiology of infection with hepatitis A and B viruses in an isolated Pacific population. To determine the prevalence of infection with hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B virus in an isolated population, samples of serum were collected from 574 healthy subjects living on the remote Pacific Island of Funafuti. Each specimen was tested for antibody to hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B surface antigen, and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen by solid-phase radioimmunoassay. Overall, 79.8% of the population showed evidence of previous infection with hepatitis A virus, and 72.5% with hepatitis B virus; the high prevalence of antibody to both viruses in young adults suggested that the majority of infections were acquired in the first decade of life. Although it is known that hepatitis B virus maintains itself in isolated populations through a reservoir of chronic carriers, the reason for the persistently high rate of infection with hepatitis A virus is unknown.", "PMID": 438552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4147", "title": "Radioimmunoassay of somatostatin and its application in the study of pancreatic somatostatin secretion in vitro.", "content": "A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay for somatostatin is described. With the use of this system, somatostatin release from incubated rat pancreatic islets and perfused rat pancreases has been studied in vitro. Both arginine and glucose, known modulators of insulin and glucagon secretion, were found to stimulate somatostatin release. These results provide additional support for the concept that somatostatin may act as a local regulator of pancreatic A cell function.", "contents": "Radioimmunoassay of somatostatin and its application in the study of pancreatic somatostatin secretion in vitro. A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay for somatostatin is described. With the use of this system, somatostatin release from incubated rat pancreatic islets and perfused rat pancreases has been studied in vitro. Both arginine and glucose, known modulators of insulin and glucagon secretion, were found to stimulate somatostatin release. These results provide additional support for the concept that somatostatin may act as a local regulator of pancreatic A cell function.", "PMID": 438602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4148", "title": "Metal-dependent neutral proteoglycanase activity from monolayer-cultured lapine articular chondrocytes.", "content": "Neutral proteoglycanase and other protease activity from cellular and CM fractions of monolayer-cultured rabbit articular chondrocytes were studied. The cellular fraction comprising soluble cytoplasmic enzymes possessed concentration-dependent elastase-like esterase activity and activity against trypsin and chymotrypsin synthetic substrates but had little caseinase activity. The 20% ammonium sulfate precipitate of CM possessed more neutral caseinase activity than the 60% ammonium sulfate precipitate and the bulk of activity against the synthetic substrates. Activity against bovine nasal septum PG was present in these fractions. Both the 20% and 60% ammonium sulfate fractions reduced the viscosity and the S of the PG substrate. This activity was incompletely inhibited by preincubation with either 5 mM o-phenanthroline or 10 mM EDTA, indicating that it was paritally metal-dependent. The activity in the cellular fraction was also partially inhibited by o-phenanthroline but more so by EDTA. These data indicate that chondrocytes synthesize and secrete into the culture medium neutral proteoglycanase(s) capable of initiating degradation of PG derived from the neutral pH cartilage matrix. The inhibitory profiles, together with recent evidence of enzymes with similar activity extracted from cartilage suggested that the proteoglycanase enzyme(s) may occur in multiple forms.", "contents": "Metal-dependent neutral proteoglycanase activity from monolayer-cultured lapine articular chondrocytes. Neutral proteoglycanase and other protease activity from cellular and CM fractions of monolayer-cultured rabbit articular chondrocytes were studied. The cellular fraction comprising soluble cytoplasmic enzymes possessed concentration-dependent elastase-like esterase activity and activity against trypsin and chymotrypsin synthetic substrates but had little caseinase activity. The 20% ammonium sulfate precipitate of CM possessed more neutral caseinase activity than the 60% ammonium sulfate precipitate and the bulk of activity against the synthetic substrates. Activity against bovine nasal septum PG was present in these fractions. Both the 20% and 60% ammonium sulfate fractions reduced the viscosity and the S of the PG substrate. This activity was incompletely inhibited by preincubation with either 5 mM o-phenanthroline or 10 mM EDTA, indicating that it was paritally metal-dependent. The activity in the cellular fraction was also partially inhibited by o-phenanthroline but more so by EDTA. These data indicate that chondrocytes synthesize and secrete into the culture medium neutral proteoglycanase(s) capable of initiating degradation of PG derived from the neutral pH cartilage matrix. The inhibitory profiles, together with recent evidence of enzymes with similar activity extracted from cartilage suggested that the proteoglycanase enzyme(s) may occur in multiple forms.", "PMID": 438603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4149", "title": "The effects of dihydrotachysterol therapy on the measurement of plasma 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D in humans.", "content": "Anephric patients have undetectable plasma concentrations of 1,25-(OH)2-D, but when anephric patients are treated with DHT2 (Hytakerol), their plasma contains a substance that is co-purified with and displaces authentic 3H-1,25(OH)2-D3 from its intestinal cytoplasmic receptor. The concentration of this substance in the plasma of anephric patients taking DHT2 is proportional to the administered daily dose of DHT2 per kilogram body weight. When DHT2 therapy is discontinued, the substance disappears from plasma with an average t 1/2 of about 8 days.", "contents": "The effects of dihydrotachysterol therapy on the measurement of plasma 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D in humans. Anephric patients have undetectable plasma concentrations of 1,25-(OH)2-D, but when anephric patients are treated with DHT2 (Hytakerol), their plasma contains a substance that is co-purified with and displaces authentic 3H-1,25(OH)2-D3 from its intestinal cytoplasmic receptor. The concentration of this substance in the plasma of anephric patients taking DHT2 is proportional to the administered daily dose of DHT2 per kilogram body weight. When DHT2 therapy is discontinued, the substance disappears from plasma with an average t 1/2 of about 8 days.", "PMID": 438604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4150", "title": "A method for continuous drug infusion in unrestrained rats: its application in evaluating the toxicity of 5-fluorouracil/thymidine combinations.", "content": "A method for continuous infusion of drugs into the tail vein of rats was developed. This simple procedure has the advantage of permitting freedom of movement of the animal during extended drug exposure. Utilization of an aluminum sheath as a tail cover prevents destruction of the cannulating apparatus without placing additional stress upon the animal. This method produced no adverse effects upon rats during prolonged infusion (up to 7 days) and may be useful in the routine evaluation of agents having a short plasma half-life. The lethality of FU alone or in combination with TdR was evaluated with this technique. Infusion of up to 10 gm/kg/72 hr of TdR produced no mortality. Co-administration of TdR at 1 gm/kg/72 hr with FU, however, potentiated the toxicity of FU. These data indicate that the toxicity of FU may be modified by provision of TdR with this method.", "contents": "A method for continuous drug infusion in unrestrained rats: its application in evaluating the toxicity of 5-fluorouracil/thymidine combinations. A method for continuous infusion of drugs into the tail vein of rats was developed. This simple procedure has the advantage of permitting freedom of movement of the animal during extended drug exposure. Utilization of an aluminum sheath as a tail cover prevents destruction of the cannulating apparatus without placing additional stress upon the animal. This method produced no adverse effects upon rats during prolonged infusion (up to 7 days) and may be useful in the routine evaluation of agents having a short plasma half-life. The lethality of FU alone or in combination with TdR was evaluated with this technique. Infusion of up to 10 gm/kg/72 hr of TdR produced no mortality. Co-administration of TdR at 1 gm/kg/72 hr with FU, however, potentiated the toxicity of FU. These data indicate that the toxicity of FU may be modified by provision of TdR with this method.", "PMID": 438606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4151", "title": "Blood coagulation system pathophysiology in acute myocardial infarction: the influence of anticoagulant treatment on laboratory findings.", "content": "Two hundred twenty patients admitted to a Coronary Care Unit were studied by serial plasma fibrinogen chromatography--a method for quantification of HMWFCs, native fibrinogen, and other fibrinogen derivatives in plasma. Enhanced formation of fibrin (intravascular coagulation/thrombosis) is reflected by elevation of plasma HMWFC. One hundred ten patients suffering from documented acute myocardial infarction showed early, sharp elevation of plasma HMWFC (p less than 0.001 when compared to normal and cardiac control groups), a finding which persisted for 10 to 20 days after infarction. Forty-three of the patients did not receive anticoagulant therapy, and the others received either initial heparin, heparin plus warfarin, or werfarin therapy. Plasma fibrinogen chromatographic findings, days 1 to 5, did not differ between the anticoagulated and nonanticoagulated treatment groups, although there were minor differences in the data for days 6 to 10. The results demonstrate that patients with acute myocardial infarction develop a coagulopathy characterized by enhanced fibrin formation, which is influenced to only a minor degree by conventional dosage anticoagulant therapy.", "contents": "Blood coagulation system pathophysiology in acute myocardial infarction: the influence of anticoagulant treatment on laboratory findings. Two hundred twenty patients admitted to a Coronary Care Unit were studied by serial plasma fibrinogen chromatography--a method for quantification of HMWFCs, native fibrinogen, and other fibrinogen derivatives in plasma. Enhanced formation of fibrin (intravascular coagulation/thrombosis) is reflected by elevation of plasma HMWFC. One hundred ten patients suffering from documented acute myocardial infarction showed early, sharp elevation of plasma HMWFC (p less than 0.001 when compared to normal and cardiac control groups), a finding which persisted for 10 to 20 days after infarction. Forty-three of the patients did not receive anticoagulant therapy, and the others received either initial heparin, heparin plus warfarin, or werfarin therapy. Plasma fibrinogen chromatographic findings, days 1 to 5, did not differ between the anticoagulated and nonanticoagulated treatment groups, although there were minor differences in the data for days 6 to 10. The results demonstrate that patients with acute myocardial infarction develop a coagulopathy characterized by enhanced fibrin formation, which is influenced to only a minor degree by conventional dosage anticoagulant therapy.", "PMID": 438607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4152", "title": "Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in uremic women.", "content": "Menstrual abnormalities are common with decreasing renal function and uremia. Maintenance hemodialysis therapy partially corrects some of the abnormalities. Since the pathophysiology of the menstural irregularities is unknown, the secretion of LH, FSH, estrogen, and PRL was studied under basal conditions and after provocative testing in 13 women undergoing chronic maintenance hemodialysis. Elevated LH concentrations were found in all six premenopausal (44.1 +/- 26.4 mlU/ml, normal follicular phase 4 to 30) and seven postmenopausal (246.1 +/- 171.4 mlU/ml, normal 35 to 200) women studied. FSH values were normal both in the premenopausal women (7.9 +/- 4.1 mlU/ml, normal 2 to 20) and in postmenopausal women (88.0 +/- 69.0 mlU/ml, normal 40 to 200). FSH and LH levels did not show typical ovulatory spikes in three of four women studied. Pulsatile hormonal release was absent. The pituitary response to LH-RH was adequate and prolonged, but the response to clomiphene citrate was variable. The study documents the existence of abnormalities at various levels of the hypothalamic-putuitary-ovarian axis.", "contents": "Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in uremic women. Menstrual abnormalities are common with decreasing renal function and uremia. Maintenance hemodialysis therapy partially corrects some of the abnormalities. Since the pathophysiology of the menstural irregularities is unknown, the secretion of LH, FSH, estrogen, and PRL was studied under basal conditions and after provocative testing in 13 women undergoing chronic maintenance hemodialysis. Elevated LH concentrations were found in all six premenopausal (44.1 +/- 26.4 mlU/ml, normal follicular phase 4 to 30) and seven postmenopausal (246.1 +/- 171.4 mlU/ml, normal 35 to 200) women studied. FSH values were normal both in the premenopausal women (7.9 +/- 4.1 mlU/ml, normal 2 to 20) and in postmenopausal women (88.0 +/- 69.0 mlU/ml, normal 40 to 200). FSH and LH levels did not show typical ovulatory spikes in three of four women studied. Pulsatile hormonal release was absent. The pituitary response to LH-RH was adequate and prolonged, but the response to clomiphene citrate was variable. The study documents the existence of abnormalities at various levels of the hypothalamic-putuitary-ovarian axis.", "PMID": 438608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4153", "title": "Serum alkaline phosphatase in azotemic and hemodialysis osteodystrophy: a study of isoenzyme patterns, their correlation with bone histology, and their changes in response to treatment with 1alphaOHD3 and 1,25(OH)2D3.", "content": "One hundren seventy-eight azotemic patients, 114 on hemodialysis, had measurements of total serum ALP, and definition of isoenzyme patterns on acrylamide gel electrophoresis. In addition, bone histomorphometry was defined in all of the patients by means of transiliac bone biopsies. Serial estimations over 2 years were carried out on several patients, including some being treated with vitamin D2, 1alphaOHD3, and 1,25(OH)2D3. (1) In both nondialyzed and dialyzed patients, serum ALP showed a significant positive correlation with osteitis fibrosa due to secondary hyperparathyroidism irrespective of the presence or absence of concurrent osteomalacia. Increases in the bone isoenzyme were largely responsible for the rise in total ALP. (2) A higher incidence of osteomalacia (p less than 0.001) was observed in patients on hemodialysis in Newcastle Upon Tyne. In hemodialyzed patients where osteomalacia was accompanied by either no secondary hyperparathyroidism (21 patients) or minimal secondary hyperparathyroidism (14 patients), serum ALP remained within normal limits, giving no indication of the existing osteomalacic bone disease. Isoenzyme studies revealed a high prevalence of the intestinal type and also varied combinations of hepatic, intestinal, and bone types. (3) Good response to vitamin D depended on the presence of significant amounts of the bone isoenzyme. Azotemic osteodystrophy characterized by a raised serum ALP and a prominent bone isoenzyme predicted a good response to vitamin D, and the decrease in serum ALP following vitamin D was the result of a reduction in the bone isoenzyme. Patients with symptomatic dialysis osteomalacic bone disease, accompanied by normal total serum ALP and no elevation of the bone isoenzyme, responded less well.", "contents": "Serum alkaline phosphatase in azotemic and hemodialysis osteodystrophy: a study of isoenzyme patterns, their correlation with bone histology, and their changes in response to treatment with 1alphaOHD3 and 1,25(OH)2D3. One hundren seventy-eight azotemic patients, 114 on hemodialysis, had measurements of total serum ALP, and definition of isoenzyme patterns on acrylamide gel electrophoresis. In addition, bone histomorphometry was defined in all of the patients by means of transiliac bone biopsies. Serial estimations over 2 years were carried out on several patients, including some being treated with vitamin D2, 1alphaOHD3, and 1,25(OH)2D3. (1) In both nondialyzed and dialyzed patients, serum ALP showed a significant positive correlation with osteitis fibrosa due to secondary hyperparathyroidism irrespective of the presence or absence of concurrent osteomalacia. Increases in the bone isoenzyme were largely responsible for the rise in total ALP. (2) A higher incidence of osteomalacia (p less than 0.001) was observed in patients on hemodialysis in Newcastle Upon Tyne. In hemodialyzed patients where osteomalacia was accompanied by either no secondary hyperparathyroidism (21 patients) or minimal secondary hyperparathyroidism (14 patients), serum ALP remained within normal limits, giving no indication of the existing osteomalacic bone disease. Isoenzyme studies revealed a high prevalence of the intestinal type and also varied combinations of hepatic, intestinal, and bone types. (3) Good response to vitamin D depended on the presence of significant amounts of the bone isoenzyme. Azotemic osteodystrophy characterized by a raised serum ALP and a prominent bone isoenzyme predicted a good response to vitamin D, and the decrease in serum ALP following vitamin D was the result of a reduction in the bone isoenzyme. Patients with symptomatic dialysis osteomalacic bone disease, accompanied by normal total serum ALP and no elevation of the bone isoenzyme, responded less well.", "PMID": 438610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4154", "title": "Clinical studies with a nonvasoactive peritoneal dialysis solution.", "content": "Topical application of dialysis solution to the rat microcirculation causes a transient vasoconstriction for 2 to 3 min. We assessed the clinical importance of this vasoconstriction by developing a dialysis solution without vasoactive properties, as assessed in the microcirculatory laboratory. The solution was of similar composition to human extracellular fluid. We tested its effects on Cur, Ccr, Cin, and dialysate protein concentration. We found that compared to commercial solutions, the lower osmolality of the NVS resulted in loss of ultrafiltration and decreases in clearance of urea and creatinine. The clearance of inulin was unchanged, and dialysate protein increased, suggesting a major increase in diffusive transport of large solutes. Increased diffusive transport of large solutes with NVS suggests that initial vasoconstriction seen in the rat could be present and clinically important during peritoneal dialysis in humans.", "contents": "Clinical studies with a nonvasoactive peritoneal dialysis solution. Topical application of dialysis solution to the rat microcirculation causes a transient vasoconstriction for 2 to 3 min. We assessed the clinical importance of this vasoconstriction by developing a dialysis solution without vasoactive properties, as assessed in the microcirculatory laboratory. The solution was of similar composition to human extracellular fluid. We tested its effects on Cur, Ccr, Cin, and dialysate protein concentration. We found that compared to commercial solutions, the lower osmolality of the NVS resulted in loss of ultrafiltration and decreases in clearance of urea and creatinine. The clearance of inulin was unchanged, and dialysate protein increased, suggesting a major increase in diffusive transport of large solutes. Increased diffusive transport of large solutes with NVS suggests that initial vasoconstriction seen in the rat could be present and clinically important during peritoneal dialysis in humans.", "PMID": 438611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4155", "title": "Hb P-Nilotic in association with beta0-thalassemia: cis-mutation of a hemoglobin betaA chain regulatory determinant?", "content": "Hb P-Nilotic which is produced by a hybrid of beta and delta genes was found in several members of a Sudanese family, three of whom had an associated beta-thalassemia. Chemical analyses confirmed the crossover between positions 22 and 50 of the beta delta P chain. The Hb p-Nilotic heterozygote had completely normal hematology, but the patients with the Hb P-Nilotic--beta-thalassemia condition had moderately severe clinical and hematological abnormalities which were considerably more pronounced than those in the father who had a beta-thalassemia heterozygosity. The absolute cellular contents of normal and abnormal non-alpha chains in these subjects and the results of in vitro chain synthesis analyses suggested that the thalassemia gene in this family is of the beta0 type and that the beta A gene which is present in cis to the beta delta P gene is incapable of being stimulated when the beta0-thalassemia determinant is present in trans. It is proposed that a number of recombination events produced a beta delta P hydrid gene with duplication of the beta A gene in cis as well as a change in an untranscribed strand of DNA which controls the expression of the beta A gene.", "contents": "Hb P-Nilotic in association with beta0-thalassemia: cis-mutation of a hemoglobin betaA chain regulatory determinant? Hb P-Nilotic which is produced by a hybrid of beta and delta genes was found in several members of a Sudanese family, three of whom had an associated beta-thalassemia. Chemical analyses confirmed the crossover between positions 22 and 50 of the beta delta P chain. The Hb p-Nilotic heterozygote had completely normal hematology, but the patients with the Hb P-Nilotic--beta-thalassemia condition had moderately severe clinical and hematological abnormalities which were considerably more pronounced than those in the father who had a beta-thalassemia heterozygosity. The absolute cellular contents of normal and abnormal non-alpha chains in these subjects and the results of in vitro chain synthesis analyses suggested that the thalassemia gene in this family is of the beta0 type and that the beta A gene which is present in cis to the beta delta P gene is incapable of being stimulated when the beta0-thalassemia determinant is present in trans. It is proposed that a number of recombination events produced a beta delta P hydrid gene with duplication of the beta A gene in cis as well as a change in an untranscribed strand of DNA which controls the expression of the beta A gene.", "PMID": 438612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4156", "title": "Acinic cell carcinoma: a clinicopathologic study of thirty-five cases.", "content": "A clinicopathologic study of 35 cases of acinic cell carcinomas is presented. Complete follow-up information was available on 31 patients (average period, 7-5 years). The malignant potential of these neoplasms is affirmed by observations that metastases (local and distant) occurred in nine patients and that eight patients died as a consequence of their carcinoma. Retrospective classification of the carcinomas into high and low grade lesions correlated well with ultimate biologic behavior but is unlikely to be successful in an intra-operative (frozen section) mode. This limitation is due to: (a) sampling limitations at the time of primary surgery and (b) the malignant behavior of the occasional low grade carcinoma. Histologic features characterizing high grade carcinomas are local aggressive infiltration and areas of the tumor that appear analogous to the embryonic and post-embryonic terminal tubules and intercalated ducts. The best opportunity for cure of these neoplasms lies in their complete surgical removal at the time of initial treatment. For this, a total parotidectomy is the procedure of choice. Enucleation and local excision is to be condemned.", "contents": "Acinic cell carcinoma: a clinicopathologic study of thirty-five cases. A clinicopathologic study of 35 cases of acinic cell carcinomas is presented. Complete follow-up information was available on 31 patients (average period, 7-5 years). The malignant potential of these neoplasms is affirmed by observations that metastases (local and distant) occurred in nine patients and that eight patients died as a consequence of their carcinoma. Retrospective classification of the carcinomas into high and low grade lesions correlated well with ultimate biologic behavior but is unlikely to be successful in an intra-operative (frozen section) mode. This limitation is due to: (a) sampling limitations at the time of primary surgery and (b) the malignant behavior of the occasional low grade carcinoma. Histologic features characterizing high grade carcinomas are local aggressive infiltration and areas of the tumor that appear analogous to the embryonic and post-embryonic terminal tubules and intercalated ducts. The best opportunity for cure of these neoplasms lies in their complete surgical removal at the time of initial treatment. For this, a total parotidectomy is the procedure of choice. Enucleation and local excision is to be condemned.", "PMID": 438614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4157", "title": "Interaction of kanamycin and noise exposure.", "content": "The amount of hair cell damage in the cochleas of guinea pigs after exposure to different experimental conditions suggests that a 'safe' level of kanamycin has a potentiating effect on damage due to noise. Such an effect lasts more than 20 days after the cessation of the drug administration.", "contents": "Interaction of kanamycin and noise exposure. The amount of hair cell damage in the cochleas of guinea pigs after exposure to different experimental conditions suggests that a 'safe' level of kanamycin has a potentiating effect on damage due to noise. Such an effect lasts more than 20 days after the cessation of the drug administration.", "PMID": 438615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4158", "title": "Submucous resection. The treatment of choice in the nose-ear distress syndrome.", "content": "The combination of nasal septal deviation and Eustachian tube dysfunction, in the absence of any other pathology, constitutes the Nose-Ear Distress Syndrome. We have undertaken a clinical assessment of the relationship between uncomplicated deviation of the nasal septum and Eustachian tube dysfunction in Naval Personnel who are serving in environments of primarily increased barometric pressure. 120 candidates to the Submarine, Diving and Aircrew branches of the Royal Navy who presented with the Nose-Ear distress syndrome were initially surveyed. None were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased ambient pressure of 3 metres of water. Submucous resection was performed on 116, of whom 110 (94.83 per cent) were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased ambient pressure of 9 metres of water post-operatively. Xenon 133 Scintigraphy was performed on a further 25 recruits to delineate the post-nasal airflow. This investigation was performed pre- and post-operatively. Pre-operatively, Scintigraphy showed the presence of turbulence in the post-nasal space, while post-operatively the turbulence was absent. All the candidates were unable to equilibrate their middle ear pressures pre-operatively, but after submucous resection 24 (96 per cent) were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased barometric pressure of 9 metres of water.", "contents": "Submucous resection. The treatment of choice in the nose-ear distress syndrome. The combination of nasal septal deviation and Eustachian tube dysfunction, in the absence of any other pathology, constitutes the Nose-Ear Distress Syndrome. We have undertaken a clinical assessment of the relationship between uncomplicated deviation of the nasal septum and Eustachian tube dysfunction in Naval Personnel who are serving in environments of primarily increased barometric pressure. 120 candidates to the Submarine, Diving and Aircrew branches of the Royal Navy who presented with the Nose-Ear distress syndrome were initially surveyed. None were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased ambient pressure of 3 metres of water. Submucous resection was performed on 116, of whom 110 (94.83 per cent) were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased ambient pressure of 9 metres of water post-operatively. Xenon 133 Scintigraphy was performed on a further 25 recruits to delineate the post-nasal airflow. This investigation was performed pre- and post-operatively. Pre-operatively, Scintigraphy showed the presence of turbulence in the post-nasal space, while post-operatively the turbulence was absent. All the candidates were unable to equilibrate their middle ear pressures pre-operatively, but after submucous resection 24 (96 per cent) were able to equilibrate their middle ear pressures at an increased barometric pressure of 9 metres of water.", "PMID": 438617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4159", "title": "Complications of long-term nasal and oral endotracheal intubation.", "content": "A case of multiple complications following long-term endotracheal intubation in an adult is presented. It is important to suspect multiple injuries in such a case and to do a complete radiological and endoscopic examination. In this way various problems will be identified and treated promptly.", "contents": "Complications of long-term nasal and oral endotracheal intubation. A case of multiple complications following long-term endotracheal intubation in an adult is presented. It is important to suspect multiple injuries in such a case and to do a complete radiological and endoscopic examination. In this way various problems will be identified and treated promptly.", "PMID": 438618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4160", "title": "The treatment of juvenile multiple laryngeal papillomatosis by suction diathermy.", "content": "Ten cases of laryngeal papillomatosis treated by suction diathermy are described. The results of this treatment compare favourably with other far more expensive techniques. It is emphasised that proper paediatric anaesthesia is most important.", "contents": "The treatment of juvenile multiple laryngeal papillomatosis by suction diathermy. Ten cases of laryngeal papillomatosis treated by suction diathermy are described. The results of this treatment compare favourably with other far more expensive techniques. It is emphasised that proper paediatric anaesthesia is most important.", "PMID": 438619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4161", "title": "Recurrence of carcinoma of maxillary antrum after 25 years.", "content": "A true recurrence of a glandular carcinoma of the antrum was diagnosed 20 years after treatment of the original condition: such an occurrence is rare. Detection of the tumour, however, was delayed as inspection of the original site was not possible during follow-up. Adequate visualization of the tumour area is considered to be of vital importance in the management of cases of malignant disease involving the antrum. The tumour showed a surprisingly good response to radiotherapy.", "contents": "Recurrence of carcinoma of maxillary antrum after 25 years. A true recurrence of a glandular carcinoma of the antrum was diagnosed 20 years after treatment of the original condition: such an occurrence is rare. Detection of the tumour, however, was delayed as inspection of the original site was not possible during follow-up. Adequate visualization of the tumour area is considered to be of vital importance in the management of cases of malignant disease involving the antrum. The tumour showed a surprisingly good response to radiotherapy.", "PMID": 438621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4162", "title": "Dentigerous cyst with oro-antral fistula.", "content": "A dentigerous cyst of the upper jaw is a common disease, forming 3 per cent of all alveolar cysts. However, its association with an oro-antral fistula is extremely rare and only a few cases have been reported so far.", "contents": "Dentigerous cyst with oro-antral fistula. A dentigerous cyst of the upper jaw is a common disease, forming 3 per cent of all alveolar cysts. However, its association with an oro-antral fistula is extremely rare and only a few cases have been reported so far.", "PMID": 438622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4163", "title": "Mesenchymal chondrosarcomas of the head and neck.", "content": "Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma, in both osseous and extra-skeletal forms, has a decided predilection for the head and neck region. The two cases presented in this report affirm this tendency and also illustrate the capricious biologic behavior of the neoplasms as manifested by the 30 additional cases recorded in the literature. Histopathologic confusion with hemangiopericytoma is avoided by identification of the cartilage component in the mesenchymal chondrosarcoma and by the undifferentiated nature of the cellular (non-cartilaginous) component.", "contents": "Mesenchymal chondrosarcomas of the head and neck. Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma, in both osseous and extra-skeletal forms, has a decided predilection for the head and neck region. The two cases presented in this report affirm this tendency and also illustrate the capricious biologic behavior of the neoplasms as manifested by the 30 additional cases recorded in the literature. Histopathologic confusion with hemangiopericytoma is avoided by identification of the cartilage component in the mesenchymal chondrosarcoma and by the undifferentiated nature of the cellular (non-cartilaginous) component.", "PMID": 438624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4164", "title": "Cranial nerve involvement in malignant lymphoma.", "content": "A rare case of malignant lymphomas extensively invading the central nervous system is presented. Cranial nerve involvement is usually a late complication of this disease and its presentation is an ominous sign. This patient presented with symptoms and signs related to the fifth to tenth cranial nerves inclusive. He responded promptly to chemotherapy and has been followed up for 14 months without recurrence.", "contents": "Cranial nerve involvement in malignant lymphoma. A rare case of malignant lymphomas extensively invading the central nervous system is presented. Cranial nerve involvement is usually a late complication of this disease and its presentation is an ominous sign. This patient presented with symptoms and signs related to the fifth to tenth cranial nerves inclusive. He responded promptly to chemotherapy and has been followed up for 14 months without recurrence.", "PMID": 438625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4165", "title": "Primary lymphoma of the parotid gland.", "content": "Primary lymphomas of the salivary glands are very rare. Approximately fifty possible cases have been reported. Whether primary malignant lymphoma of the parotid gland is extranodular or not, is not yet clear. We describe two cases of primary lymphoma of the parotid gland and review the literature of this condition.", "contents": "Primary lymphoma of the parotid gland. Primary lymphomas of the salivary glands are very rare. Approximately fifty possible cases have been reported. Whether primary malignant lymphoma of the parotid gland is extranodular or not, is not yet clear. We describe two cases of primary lymphoma of the parotid gland and review the literature of this condition.", "PMID": 438626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4166", "title": "Acinic cell carcinoma of intraoral minor salivary gland origin.", "content": "A case of acinic cell carcinoma involving minor salivary gland tissue is reported. This is an exceptional occurrence. The response to radiotherapy is described and it is suggested that this form of treatment should be considered in these cases.", "contents": "Acinic cell carcinoma of intraoral minor salivary gland origin. A case of acinic cell carcinoma involving minor salivary gland tissue is reported. This is an exceptional occurrence. The response to radiotherapy is described and it is suggested that this form of treatment should be considered in these cases.", "PMID": 438627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4167", "title": "Acoustic impedance measurements and their importance in cleft palate patients.", "content": "There is a high incidence of middle ear pathology in cleft palate patients, secretory otitis media being the most common lesion. Impedence audiometry gives more valid information about conditions in the middle ear, as confirmed by exploratory paracenteses. Impedance audiometry, therefore, should be done as a routine, wherever facilities exist, in conjunction with the clinical examination.", "contents": "Acoustic impedance measurements and their importance in cleft palate patients. There is a high incidence of middle ear pathology in cleft palate patients, secretory otitis media being the most common lesion. Impedence audiometry gives more valid information about conditions in the middle ear, as confirmed by exploratory paracenteses. Impedance audiometry, therefore, should be done as a routine, wherever facilities exist, in conjunction with the clinical examination.", "PMID": 438629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4168", "title": "The transformation of laryngeal leucoplakia to cancer.", "content": "In the transformation of laryngeal keratosis to cancer what one may be witnessing is a progression from normal epithelium to keratosis without cellular atypia, through varying degrees of atypia to the stage of carcinoma-in-situ when the full thickness of the epithelium is occupied by atypical cells until finally, with breaching of the basement membrane, an invasive carcinoma occurs (Fig. 12). Although this is, in theory, an attractive sequence, in practice it seems rare to detect an alteration in the epithelium from keratosis without atypia to keratosis with atypia and furthermore most of the carcinomas which developed were not in-situ but invasive. Therefore the significant pathway is probably a change from normal non-keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium via keratosis with atypia to invasive carcinoma (Fig. 13).", "contents": "The transformation of laryngeal leucoplakia to cancer. In the transformation of laryngeal keratosis to cancer what one may be witnessing is a progression from normal epithelium to keratosis without cellular atypia, through varying degrees of atypia to the stage of carcinoma-in-situ when the full thickness of the epithelium is occupied by atypical cells until finally, with breaching of the basement membrane, an invasive carcinoma occurs (Fig. 12). Although this is, in theory, an attractive sequence, in practice it seems rare to detect an alteration in the epithelium from keratosis without atypia to keratosis with atypia and furthermore most of the carcinomas which developed were not in-situ but invasive. Therefore the significant pathway is probably a change from normal non-keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium via keratosis with atypia to invasive carcinoma (Fig. 13).", "PMID": 438630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4169", "title": "Hereditary deafness in children: diagnosis and a family report.", "content": "A family with hereditary deafness is presented. The mother and ten of her children suffer sensorineural hearing loss. The maternal grandparents and four uncles and aunts were all hard of hearing. Clinical examination revealed no accompanying gross anomalies. In one child, Mondini deformity is the cause of deafness. In the rest of the family isolated membranous labyrinth deformity is suggested. The methods of early diagnosis are discussed, among which polytomography proved the most reliable for diagnosing Mondini and Michel deformities. We demonstrated how early fitting of hearing aids is essential for language acquisition and speech development. Clinical ability to differentiate between subtypes of inner ear hereditary deafness not accompanied by gross anomalies is limited. This problem and the problem arising from late diagnosis are illustrated by a report on a family of ten children, nine of whom suffer sensorineural hearing loss.", "contents": "Hereditary deafness in children: diagnosis and a family report. A family with hereditary deafness is presented. The mother and ten of her children suffer sensorineural hearing loss. The maternal grandparents and four uncles and aunts were all hard of hearing. Clinical examination revealed no accompanying gross anomalies. In one child, Mondini deformity is the cause of deafness. In the rest of the family isolated membranous labyrinth deformity is suggested. The methods of early diagnosis are discussed, among which polytomography proved the most reliable for diagnosing Mondini and Michel deformities. We demonstrated how early fitting of hearing aids is essential for language acquisition and speech development. Clinical ability to differentiate between subtypes of inner ear hereditary deafness not accompanied by gross anomalies is limited. This problem and the problem arising from late diagnosis are illustrated by a report on a family of ten children, nine of whom suffer sensorineural hearing loss.", "PMID": 438632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4170", "title": "Multicentric metachronous primary carcinoma of the upper alimentary tract in 'Biri' smokers.", "content": "Three Biri smokers with multicentric primary metachronous squamous cell carcinomas of the upper alimentary tract are presented. The susceptibility of the tissues of the upper alimentary tract to multiple malignancies, and the carcinogenic effect of radiation and Biri smoke on these tissues, are discussed. We have tried to assess the role of continuous Biri smoking in the production of a second malignancy of the upper food passages in patients who received radiotherapy for their first tumour.", "contents": "Multicentric metachronous primary carcinoma of the upper alimentary tract in 'Biri' smokers. Three Biri smokers with multicentric primary metachronous squamous cell carcinomas of the upper alimentary tract are presented. The susceptibility of the tissues of the upper alimentary tract to multiple malignancies, and the carcinogenic effect of radiation and Biri smoke on these tissues, are discussed. We have tried to assess the role of continuous Biri smoking in the production of a second malignancy of the upper food passages in patients who received radiotherapy for their first tumour.", "PMID": 438635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4171", "title": "Internal cysts and fistulae of branchial origin.", "content": "Cysts and fistulae related to the second and third pharyngeal pouches are described. These anomalies probably occur more often than presumed. Unilateral recurring infections of the tonsillar region, including parapharyngeal abscess, may be caused by anomalies related to the second pouch. Third pouch anomalies are located in the piriform recess. Cysts may reach a size that causes obstruction to the larynx and hypopharynx, while diverticulae cause few symptoms.", "contents": "Internal cysts and fistulae of branchial origin. Cysts and fistulae related to the second and third pharyngeal pouches are described. These anomalies probably occur more often than presumed. Unilateral recurring infections of the tonsillar region, including parapharyngeal abscess, may be caused by anomalies related to the second pouch. Third pouch anomalies are located in the piriform recess. Cysts may reach a size that causes obstruction to the larynx and hypopharynx, while diverticulae cause few symptoms.", "PMID": 438636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4172", "title": "Biliary lipid secretion in hypercholesterolemia.", "content": "A report on the effects of primary bile acid ingestion alone or in combination with plant sterols on serum cholesterol levels, biliary lipid secretion, and bile acid metabolism. Biliary bile acid and cholesterol secretion were measured in four patients with type IIa hypercholesterolemia before and after randomized treatment periods. During these periods either a bile acid mixture (cholic-chenodeoxycholic 2:1, a proportion similar to that endogenously synthesized in health), at a level of 20 mg/kg, or the same mixture plus sitosterols, 200 mg/kg, was fed. Serum cholesterol and the cholesterol saturation of fasting-state bile was also measured. Pretreatment biliary lipid secretion was within normal limits. Bile acid kinetic measurements were also recorded before treatment and showed that cholic acid synthesis was disproportionately decreased relative to that of chenodeoxycholic acid, a finding previously reported by others. Administration of the bile acid mixture increased biliary bile acid secretion in 3 of 4 patients, but did not influence biliary cholesterol secretion. The combination of sitosterol-bile acid, however, caused a relative decrease in cholesterol secretion in bile, and fasting-state bile became unsaturated in all patients. No change in fecal neutral sterol excretion occurred during the beta-sitosterol-bile acid regimen, suggesting that simultaneous bile acid feeding blocks the compensatory increase in cholesterol synthesis known to be induced by beta-sitosterol feeding in hypercholesterolemic patients. Serum cholesterol levels also fell modestly during the sitosterol-bile acid regimen, the decrease averaging 15%. We conclude that the abnormally low rate of bile acid synthesis in patients with type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia does not influence biliary lipid secretion; that increasing the input of the two primary bile acids into the enterohepatic circulation does not increase biliary cholesterol secretion or lower serum cholesterol levels in such patients; and that the usual increase in cholesterol synthesis induced by beta-sitosterol feeding does not occur if bile acids are administered simultaneously.", "contents": "Biliary lipid secretion in hypercholesterolemia. A report on the effects of primary bile acid ingestion alone or in combination with plant sterols on serum cholesterol levels, biliary lipid secretion, and bile acid metabolism. Biliary bile acid and cholesterol secretion were measured in four patients with type IIa hypercholesterolemia before and after randomized treatment periods. During these periods either a bile acid mixture (cholic-chenodeoxycholic 2:1, a proportion similar to that endogenously synthesized in health), at a level of 20 mg/kg, or the same mixture plus sitosterols, 200 mg/kg, was fed. Serum cholesterol and the cholesterol saturation of fasting-state bile was also measured. Pretreatment biliary lipid secretion was within normal limits. Bile acid kinetic measurements were also recorded before treatment and showed that cholic acid synthesis was disproportionately decreased relative to that of chenodeoxycholic acid, a finding previously reported by others. Administration of the bile acid mixture increased biliary bile acid secretion in 3 of 4 patients, but did not influence biliary cholesterol secretion. The combination of sitosterol-bile acid, however, caused a relative decrease in cholesterol secretion in bile, and fasting-state bile became unsaturated in all patients. No change in fecal neutral sterol excretion occurred during the beta-sitosterol-bile acid regimen, suggesting that simultaneous bile acid feeding blocks the compensatory increase in cholesterol synthesis known to be induced by beta-sitosterol feeding in hypercholesterolemic patients. Serum cholesterol levels also fell modestly during the sitosterol-bile acid regimen, the decrease averaging 15%. We conclude that the abnormally low rate of bile acid synthesis in patients with type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia does not influence biliary lipid secretion; that increasing the input of the two primary bile acids into the enterohepatic circulation does not increase biliary cholesterol secretion or lower serum cholesterol levels in such patients; and that the usual increase in cholesterol synthesis induced by beta-sitosterol feeding does not occur if bile acids are administered simultaneously.", "PMID": 438650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4173", "title": "Synthesis of [24, 25-3H]cholesterol: a new substrate for determining the rate of cholesterol side chain oxidation.", "content": "A procedure for the synthesis of [24,25-3H]cholesterol from the nonradioactive precursor desmosterol is described. The intermediate, isodesmosterol, which was purified by column chromatography, was formed to protect the original double bond (delta 5-6) from hydrogenation. Tritium was introduced into the side chain by catalytic reduction of the double bond (delta 24-25) of the isodesmosterol in the presence of carrier-free tritium. After ring rearrangement of the iso-[24,25-3H]cholesterol acetate, the acetate was hydrolyzed to form the free labeled cholesterol. Hepatic oxidation of the [24,25-3H]cholesterol side chain release tritium into water which freely equilibrates with cell and body water pools. Thus, the rate of 3H2O appearance corresponds to the rate of cholesterol side chain oxidation. Applications of this method to in vivo, isolated perfused liver, and isolated hepatocyte preparations of the rat are discussed.", "contents": "Synthesis of [24, 25-3H]cholesterol: a new substrate for determining the rate of cholesterol side chain oxidation. A procedure for the synthesis of [24,25-3H]cholesterol from the nonradioactive precursor desmosterol is described. The intermediate, isodesmosterol, which was purified by column chromatography, was formed to protect the original double bond (delta 5-6) from hydrogenation. Tritium was introduced into the side chain by catalytic reduction of the double bond (delta 24-25) of the isodesmosterol in the presence of carrier-free tritium. After ring rearrangement of the iso-[24,25-3H]cholesterol acetate, the acetate was hydrolyzed to form the free labeled cholesterol. Hepatic oxidation of the [24,25-3H]cholesterol side chain release tritium into water which freely equilibrates with cell and body water pools. Thus, the rate of 3H2O appearance corresponds to the rate of cholesterol side chain oxidation. Applications of this method to in vivo, isolated perfused liver, and isolated hepatocyte preparations of the rat are discussed.", "PMID": 438651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4174", "title": "Evidence that cholic acid CoA ligase is located asymmetrically on the cytoplasmic surface of hepatic microsomal vesicles.", "content": "The cholic acid CoA ligase activity of rat liver was quantitatively inactivated by proteolysis with pronase, chymotrypsin, subtilisin, or proteinase K in intact microsomal vesicles. Under the conditions employed, less than 14% of the lumenal mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity was lost, and the mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity remained highly latent. After microsomal integrity was disrupted with sodium deoxycholate, protease treatment resulted in a loss of greater than 74% of the mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity. Cholic acid CoA ligase activity was unaffected by preincubation of microsomes with sodium taurocholate under conditions that led to the complete expression of latent mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity. The data suggest that cholic acid CoA ligase activity is located on the cytoplasmic surface of hepatic microsomal vesicles.", "contents": "Evidence that cholic acid CoA ligase is located asymmetrically on the cytoplasmic surface of hepatic microsomal vesicles. The cholic acid CoA ligase activity of rat liver was quantitatively inactivated by proteolysis with pronase, chymotrypsin, subtilisin, or proteinase K in intact microsomal vesicles. Under the conditions employed, less than 14% of the lumenal mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity was lost, and the mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity remained highly latent. After microsomal integrity was disrupted with sodium deoxycholate, protease treatment resulted in a loss of greater than 74% of the mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity. Cholic acid CoA ligase activity was unaffected by preincubation of microsomes with sodium taurocholate under conditions that led to the complete expression of latent mannose-6-phosphate phosphatase activity. The data suggest that cholic acid CoA ligase activity is located on the cytoplasmic surface of hepatic microsomal vesicles.", "PMID": 438652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4175", "title": "Metabolism of potential precursors of chenodeoxycholic acid in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX).", "content": "In patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX), diminished cholic acid production is associated with incomplete oxidation of the cholesterol side chain and the excretion of C(25)-hydroxy bile alcohols. The aims of this investigation were 1) to provide quantitative information on the pool size and production rate of chenodeoxycholic acid by the isotope dilution technique; and 2) to investigate the possible existence of a block in chenodeoxycholic acid synthesis and explain the absence of chenodeoxycholic acid precursors in CTX. After the injection of [24-(14)C]chenodeoxycholic acid, measurements of chenodeoxycholic acid pool size and production rate in a CTX subject were, respectively, 1/20 and 1/6 as great as controls. Further, three potential precursors of chenodeoxycholic acid, namely [G-(3)H]7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, [G-(3)H]5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,25-triol, and [G-(3)H]5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,26-triol, were administered to the CTX and control subjects and the specific activity curves of [G-(3)H]cholic acid and [G-(3)H]chenodeoxycholic acid were constructed and compared. In the control subjects, the two bile acids decayed exponentially, but in the CTX patient maximum specific activities were abnormally delayed, indicating the hindered transformation of precursor into bile acid. These results show that chenodeoxycholic acid synthesis is small in CTX and that the conversion of 7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, 5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,25-triol, and 5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,26-triol to both chenodeoxycholic acid and cholic acid were similarly impaired.", "contents": "Metabolism of potential precursors of chenodeoxycholic acid in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX). In patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX), diminished cholic acid production is associated with incomplete oxidation of the cholesterol side chain and the excretion of C(25)-hydroxy bile alcohols. The aims of this investigation were 1) to provide quantitative information on the pool size and production rate of chenodeoxycholic acid by the isotope dilution technique; and 2) to investigate the possible existence of a block in chenodeoxycholic acid synthesis and explain the absence of chenodeoxycholic acid precursors in CTX. After the injection of [24-(14)C]chenodeoxycholic acid, measurements of chenodeoxycholic acid pool size and production rate in a CTX subject were, respectively, 1/20 and 1/6 as great as controls. Further, three potential precursors of chenodeoxycholic acid, namely [G-(3)H]7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, [G-(3)H]5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,25-triol, and [G-(3)H]5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,26-triol, were administered to the CTX and control subjects and the specific activity curves of [G-(3)H]cholic acid and [G-(3)H]chenodeoxycholic acid were constructed and compared. In the control subjects, the two bile acids decayed exponentially, but in the CTX patient maximum specific activities were abnormally delayed, indicating the hindered transformation of precursor into bile acid. These results show that chenodeoxycholic acid synthesis is small in CTX and that the conversion of 7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, 5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,25-triol, and 5beta-cholestane-3alpha,7alpha,26-triol to both chenodeoxycholic acid and cholic acid were similarly impaired.", "PMID": 438653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4176", "title": "Improved methods for the solubilization and assay of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase.", "content": "A method for solubilizing HMG-CoA reductase is described that reproducibly yielded approximately 190% of the activity assayed in rat liver microsomes. Optimal solubilization occurred when microsomal membranes were frozen at a fixed concentration, thawed, homogenized in a buffer containing 50% glycerol, and incubated at 37 degrees C for 60 minutes. A rapid spectrophotometric assay of the reductase has been developed and the optimal conditions defined. Using this assay, the kinetics were determined for HMG-CoA reductase purified to a specific activity of 17,400 nmol NADPH oxidized per minute per mg protein.", "contents": "Improved methods for the solubilization and assay of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase. A method for solubilizing HMG-CoA reductase is described that reproducibly yielded approximately 190% of the activity assayed in rat liver microsomes. Optimal solubilization occurred when microsomal membranes were frozen at a fixed concentration, thawed, homogenized in a buffer containing 50% glycerol, and incubated at 37 degrees C for 60 minutes. A rapid spectrophotometric assay of the reductase has been developed and the optimal conditions defined. Using this assay, the kinetics were determined for HMG-CoA reductase purified to a specific activity of 17,400 nmol NADPH oxidized per minute per mg protein.", "PMID": 438654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4177", "title": "Quantitative assay of conjugated and free bile acids as heptafluorobutyrate derivatives by gas-liquid chromatography.", "content": "Quantitative analyses of individual bile acids in biological samples are limited by the lengthy multistep preparations necessary. Using heptafluorobutyric acid anhydride in pyridine as derivatizing agent, we reduced several steps to one. Bile acids and their glycine and taurine conjugates form stable heptafluorobutyrate derivatives, climinating the need for deconjugation and preparation of methyl esters. The derivatives have been characterized by mass spectrometry, and optimum reaction yields have been determined. Operating conditions for analyzing the bile acid heptafluorobutyrates by gas-liquid chromatography on various column packings were investigated, and 0.5% QF-1 or 3% OV-255 was found suitable. The bile acid derivatives were identical whether starting with the bile acid or the glycine or taurine conjugates. The procedure was applied to a quantitative analysis of artificial mixtures of bile acids and bile conjugates, and also of human bile. The results compared favorably to those obtained with a 3 alpha- and 7 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase fluorimetric method.", "contents": "Quantitative assay of conjugated and free bile acids as heptafluorobutyrate derivatives by gas-liquid chromatography. Quantitative analyses of individual bile acids in biological samples are limited by the lengthy multistep preparations necessary. Using heptafluorobutyric acid anhydride in pyridine as derivatizing agent, we reduced several steps to one. Bile acids and their glycine and taurine conjugates form stable heptafluorobutyrate derivatives, climinating the need for deconjugation and preparation of methyl esters. The derivatives have been characterized by mass spectrometry, and optimum reaction yields have been determined. Operating conditions for analyzing the bile acid heptafluorobutyrates by gas-liquid chromatography on various column packings were investigated, and 0.5% QF-1 or 3% OV-255 was found suitable. The bile acid derivatives were identical whether starting with the bile acid or the glycine or taurine conjugates. The procedure was applied to a quantitative analysis of artificial mixtures of bile acids and bile conjugates, and also of human bile. The results compared favorably to those obtained with a 3 alpha- and 7 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase fluorimetric method.", "PMID": 438655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4178", "title": "Mechanism of insulin resistance in adipocytes of rats fed a high-fat diet.", "content": "Insulin's ability to stimulate glucose metabolism is severely diminished in the adipose tissue of rats fed a high-fat diet as compared to that of rats fed a low-fat diet. To elucidate the mechanism for this effect we have measured the binding of insulin, the hormone effect on 2-deoxyglucose uptake and the major pathways of [1-(14)C]glucose metabolism, and the activity of lipogenesis-related enzymes in adipocytes of rats fed a low- or high-fat diet for 7 days. Rats fed high- or low-fat diets bound equal amounts of insulin per adipocyte at all insulin concentrations tested. Basal and maximally insulin-stimulated 2-deoxyglucose uptake per fat cell were reduced in high-fat-fed rats. However, the insulin stimulation over basal was the same in both groups (230%). Submaximal doses of insulin produced equivalent increments of 2-deoxyglucose uptake in both groups, as would be predicted by the binding studies. The effect of both submaximal and maximal insulin concentration on the labeling of CO(2) and fatty acids was markedly decreased by high-fat feeding. The insulin response of the glyceride-glycerol pathway was less severely, though significantly, reduced. Acetyl CoA carboxylase and malic enzyme in adipocytes of high-fat-fed rats were reduced to 13% of the activity in the low-fat-fed rats. Glucose-6-phosphate and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenases were decreased to 20% and 34% of their activities in low-fat-fed rats, respectively. These reductions paralleled the changes in insulin-stimulated glucose oxidation and fatty acid synthesis. The data therefore strongly suggest that the blunted response of glucose metabolism to insulin in adipocytes of high-fat-fed rats is a result of a decreased intracellular capacity to utilize glucose for lipogenesis.", "contents": "Mechanism of insulin resistance in adipocytes of rats fed a high-fat diet. Insulin's ability to stimulate glucose metabolism is severely diminished in the adipose tissue of rats fed a high-fat diet as compared to that of rats fed a low-fat diet. To elucidate the mechanism for this effect we have measured the binding of insulin, the hormone effect on 2-deoxyglucose uptake and the major pathways of [1-(14)C]glucose metabolism, and the activity of lipogenesis-related enzymes in adipocytes of rats fed a low- or high-fat diet for 7 days. Rats fed high- or low-fat diets bound equal amounts of insulin per adipocyte at all insulin concentrations tested. Basal and maximally insulin-stimulated 2-deoxyglucose uptake per fat cell were reduced in high-fat-fed rats. However, the insulin stimulation over basal was the same in both groups (230%). Submaximal doses of insulin produced equivalent increments of 2-deoxyglucose uptake in both groups, as would be predicted by the binding studies. The effect of both submaximal and maximal insulin concentration on the labeling of CO(2) and fatty acids was markedly decreased by high-fat feeding. The insulin response of the glyceride-glycerol pathway was less severely, though significantly, reduced. Acetyl CoA carboxylase and malic enzyme in adipocytes of high-fat-fed rats were reduced to 13% of the activity in the low-fat-fed rats. Glucose-6-phosphate and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenases were decreased to 20% and 34% of their activities in low-fat-fed rats, respectively. These reductions paralleled the changes in insulin-stimulated glucose oxidation and fatty acid synthesis. The data therefore strongly suggest that the blunted response of glucose metabolism to insulin in adipocytes of high-fat-fed rats is a result of a decreased intracellular capacity to utilize glucose for lipogenesis.", "PMID": 438656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4179", "title": "Analysis and quantitation of free ceramide containing nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids, and phytosphingosine by high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "Reaction of ceramides containing nonhydroxy fatty acids with benzoyl chloride in pyridine at 70 degrees C for 1 hr resulted in N-benzoylation to form N,N-acyl,benzoyl derivatives; O-benzoylation also occurred. However with ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids and phytosphingosine only O-benzoylation occurred even on prolonged treatment. Only O-benzoylation occurred on reaction with benzoic an hydride. However, the benzoylation of ceramides with phytosphingosine could not be achieved with benzoic anhydride and this benzoylation was performed by reaction with benzoyl chloride at 70 degrees C for 4 hr. Because N,N-acyl,benzoyl derivatives of ceramides containing nonhydroxy fatty acids produced by treatment with benzoyl chloride overlap methyl benzoate on high-performance liquid chromatography, benzoic anhydride was preferable for benzoylation of ceramides with nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids. On the other hand, the reaction with benzoyl chloride at 70 degrees C for 4 hr was used for quantitation of benzoylated ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids and phytosphingosine. 3-(p-Phenylbenzoyl)estrone was used as an internal standard for both reactions and values for ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids obtained by the two reactions were in good agreement. This procedure was applied to measurement of the ceramide levels in the brain, liver, and kidney of rats during development. The levels of ceramides containing nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids in the brain, liver, and kidney increased to the adult levels and then remained unchanged. Ceramide with phytosphingosine was detected in the liver and kidney, where its concentration gradually increased with age, but it was not found in the brain. The composition of nonhydroxy fatty acids were also analyzed.", "contents": "Analysis and quantitation of free ceramide containing nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids, and phytosphingosine by high-performance liquid chromatography. Reaction of ceramides containing nonhydroxy fatty acids with benzoyl chloride in pyridine at 70 degrees C for 1 hr resulted in N-benzoylation to form N,N-acyl,benzoyl derivatives; O-benzoylation also occurred. However with ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids and phytosphingosine only O-benzoylation occurred even on prolonged treatment. Only O-benzoylation occurred on reaction with benzoic an hydride. However, the benzoylation of ceramides with phytosphingosine could not be achieved with benzoic anhydride and this benzoylation was performed by reaction with benzoyl chloride at 70 degrees C for 4 hr. Because N,N-acyl,benzoyl derivatives of ceramides containing nonhydroxy fatty acids produced by treatment with benzoyl chloride overlap methyl benzoate on high-performance liquid chromatography, benzoic anhydride was preferable for benzoylation of ceramides with nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids. On the other hand, the reaction with benzoyl chloride at 70 degrees C for 4 hr was used for quantitation of benzoylated ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids and phytosphingosine. 3-(p-Phenylbenzoyl)estrone was used as an internal standard for both reactions and values for ceramides containing 2-hydroxy fatty acids obtained by the two reactions were in good agreement. This procedure was applied to measurement of the ceramide levels in the brain, liver, and kidney of rats during development. The levels of ceramides containing nonhydroxy and 2-hydroxy fatty acids in the brain, liver, and kidney increased to the adult levels and then remained unchanged. Ceramide with phytosphingosine was detected in the liver and kidney, where its concentration gradually increased with age, but it was not found in the brain. The composition of nonhydroxy fatty acids were also analyzed.", "PMID": 438657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4180", "title": "Effect of diosgenin on lipid metabolism in rats.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine whether diosgenin suppresses cholesterol absorption in rats, and to examine relevant changes in cholesterol and bile acid metabolism. Diosgenin fed with the diet for 1 week inhibited cholesterol absorption as determined by the serum isotope ratio technique, as well as by measuring in the feces the amount of unabsorbed radioactivity from orally administered [3H]cholesterol. In addition, diosgenin suppressed the serum and liver uptake of radioactivity from co-administered [3H]cholesterol as well as the accumulation of liver cholesterol in the cholesterol-fed rat; diosgenin was substantially more active than cholestyramine or beta-sitosterol. In vitro, diosgenin had no effect on the activity of rat pancreatic esterase. Diosgenin decreased the elevated cholesterol in serum LDL and elevated cholesterol in the HDL fraction of cholesterol-fed rats; diosgenin had no effect on serum cholesterol in normocholesterolemic rats. In contrast to cholestyramine, diosgenin markedly increased neutral sterol excretion without altering bile acid excretion; in vitro, diosgenin had no effect on bile acid binding. Diosgenin treatment increased hepatic and intestinal cholesterol synthesis as well as the activity of hepatic HMG CoA reductase. This was accompanied by increased biliary concentration of cholesterol, but not of bile acids. Diosgenin had no effect on cholesterol synthesis when added to normal rat liver homogenates. It was concluded that diosgenin interferes with the absorption of cholesterol of both exogenous and endogenous origin; such interference is accompanied by derepressed, i.e., increased, rates of hepatic and intestinal cholesterol synthesis. The increased unabsorbed cholesterol together with enhanced secretion of cholesterol into bile resulted in increased excretion of neutral sterols without affecting the biliary and fecal excretion of bile acids.", "contents": "Effect of diosgenin on lipid metabolism in rats. The purpose of this study was to determine whether diosgenin suppresses cholesterol absorption in rats, and to examine relevant changes in cholesterol and bile acid metabolism. Diosgenin fed with the diet for 1 week inhibited cholesterol absorption as determined by the serum isotope ratio technique, as well as by measuring in the feces the amount of unabsorbed radioactivity from orally administered [3H]cholesterol. In addition, diosgenin suppressed the serum and liver uptake of radioactivity from co-administered [3H]cholesterol as well as the accumulation of liver cholesterol in the cholesterol-fed rat; diosgenin was substantially more active than cholestyramine or beta-sitosterol. In vitro, diosgenin had no effect on the activity of rat pancreatic esterase. Diosgenin decreased the elevated cholesterol in serum LDL and elevated cholesterol in the HDL fraction of cholesterol-fed rats; diosgenin had no effect on serum cholesterol in normocholesterolemic rats. In contrast to cholestyramine, diosgenin markedly increased neutral sterol excretion without altering bile acid excretion; in vitro, diosgenin had no effect on bile acid binding. Diosgenin treatment increased hepatic and intestinal cholesterol synthesis as well as the activity of hepatic HMG CoA reductase. This was accompanied by increased biliary concentration of cholesterol, but not of bile acids. Diosgenin had no effect on cholesterol synthesis when added to normal rat liver homogenates. It was concluded that diosgenin interferes with the absorption of cholesterol of both exogenous and endogenous origin; such interference is accompanied by derepressed, i.e., increased, rates of hepatic and intestinal cholesterol synthesis. The increased unabsorbed cholesterol together with enhanced secretion of cholesterol into bile resulted in increased excretion of neutral sterols without affecting the biliary and fecal excretion of bile acids.", "PMID": 438658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4181", "title": "Norethindrone acetate inhibition of splanchnic triglyceride secretion in conscious glucose-fed siwne.", "content": "The effects of conventional doses of two synthetic contraceptive steroids on the concentration and rate of secretion of plasma triglycerides from the splanchnic region were investigated. Studies were undertaken in miniature swine under steady state conditions produced by prolonged constant hypercaloric intravenous infusions of glucose. The steroids, alone or in combination, were administered with the high carbohydrate diet for at least 2 weeks prior to study of splanchnic metabolism and were also infused intravenously during the studies. Splanchnic triglyceride secretion was determined from measurements of plasma flow and transsplanchnic radiochemical gradients of plasma triglycerides. Compared with studies in the untreated animal, norethindrone acetate significantly reduced the arterial concentration (1.1 +/- 0.1 vs. 0.7 +/- 0.1 mM) and rate of splanchnic secretion of plasma triglyceride fatty acids (2.0 +/- 0.4 vs. 0.8 +/- 0.1 micro mol/min.kg body wt(0.75)) and decreased the percent of free fatty acids entering the splanchnic region that was converted to plasma triglycerides (22 +/- 5 vs. 13 +/- 3%, P < 0.05). Ethynylestradiol, in the dose employed, had no significant effect on these variables; however, ethynylestradiol and norethindrone acetate together gave responses similar to norethindrone acetate alone. When the glucose was given intraduodenally vs. intravenously, values for splanchnic metabolism of triglycerides were unchanged. The hypolipemic effect of norethindrone acetate in glucose-fed swine was attributable to inhibition of hepatic triglyceride secretion.-Wolfe, B. M., and D. M. Grace. Norethindrone acetate inhibition of splanchnic triglyceride secretion in conscious glucose-fed swine.", "contents": "Norethindrone acetate inhibition of splanchnic triglyceride secretion in conscious glucose-fed siwne. The effects of conventional doses of two synthetic contraceptive steroids on the concentration and rate of secretion of plasma triglycerides from the splanchnic region were investigated. Studies were undertaken in miniature swine under steady state conditions produced by prolonged constant hypercaloric intravenous infusions of glucose. The steroids, alone or in combination, were administered with the high carbohydrate diet for at least 2 weeks prior to study of splanchnic metabolism and were also infused intravenously during the studies. Splanchnic triglyceride secretion was determined from measurements of plasma flow and transsplanchnic radiochemical gradients of plasma triglycerides. Compared with studies in the untreated animal, norethindrone acetate significantly reduced the arterial concentration (1.1 +/- 0.1 vs. 0.7 +/- 0.1 mM) and rate of splanchnic secretion of plasma triglyceride fatty acids (2.0 +/- 0.4 vs. 0.8 +/- 0.1 micro mol/min.kg body wt(0.75)) and decreased the percent of free fatty acids entering the splanchnic region that was converted to plasma triglycerides (22 +/- 5 vs. 13 +/- 3%, P < 0.05). Ethynylestradiol, in the dose employed, had no significant effect on these variables; however, ethynylestradiol and norethindrone acetate together gave responses similar to norethindrone acetate alone. When the glucose was given intraduodenally vs. intravenously, values for splanchnic metabolism of triglycerides were unchanged. The hypolipemic effect of norethindrone acetate in glucose-fed swine was attributable to inhibition of hepatic triglyceride secretion.-Wolfe, B. M., and D. M. Grace. Norethindrone acetate inhibition of splanchnic triglyceride secretion in conscious glucose-fed swine.", "PMID": 438659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4182", "title": "Interactions of cholesterol esters with phospholipids: cholesteryl myristate and dimyristoyl lecithin.", "content": "The ternary phase diagram of cholesteryl myristate--dimyristoyl lecithin--water has been determined by polarizing light microscopy, scanning calorimetry, and x-ray diffraction. Hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin forms a lamellar liquid--crystalline phase (L alpha) at temperatures greater than 23 degrees C into which limited amounts of cholesteryl myristate (less than 5 wt. %) can be incorporated. The amount of cholesterol ester incorporated is dependent upon the degree of hydration of the L alpha phase. Below 23 degrees C dimyristoyl lecithin forms ordered hydrocarbon chain structures (L beta' and P beta') which do not incorporate cholesterol ester. Comparison with other phospholipid--cholesterol ester--water phase diagrams suggests the following general principles: i) the incorporation of cholesterol ester occurs only into liquid crystalling phospholipid bilayers, ii) the extent of incorporation is temperature-dependent, with increasing amounts of cholesterol ester being incorporated at higher temperatures, and iii) unsaturated cholesterol esters induce increased disordering of the phospholipid bilayers.", "contents": "Interactions of cholesterol esters with phospholipids: cholesteryl myristate and dimyristoyl lecithin. The ternary phase diagram of cholesteryl myristate--dimyristoyl lecithin--water has been determined by polarizing light microscopy, scanning calorimetry, and x-ray diffraction. Hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin forms a lamellar liquid--crystalline phase (L alpha) at temperatures greater than 23 degrees C into which limited amounts of cholesteryl myristate (less than 5 wt. %) can be incorporated. The amount of cholesterol ester incorporated is dependent upon the degree of hydration of the L alpha phase. Below 23 degrees C dimyristoyl lecithin forms ordered hydrocarbon chain structures (L beta' and P beta') which do not incorporate cholesterol ester. Comparison with other phospholipid--cholesterol ester--water phase diagrams suggests the following general principles: i) the incorporation of cholesterol ester occurs only into liquid crystalling phospholipid bilayers, ii) the extent of incorporation is temperature-dependent, with increasing amounts of cholesterol ester being incorporated at higher temperatures, and iii) unsaturated cholesterol esters induce increased disordering of the phospholipid bilayers.", "PMID": 438660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4183", "title": "Inhibition of epinephrine-induced lipolysis in isolated white adipocytes of aging rabbits by increased alpha-adrenergic responsiveness.", "content": "The aim of this study was to explain the unresponsiveness of rabbit perirenal adipose tissue to epinephrine. The in vitro lipolytic response to isoproterenol and to epinephrine alone or associated with alpha- or beta-adrenergic blocking agents, was studied in the adipocytes of rabbits of various ages. Epinephrine induces a large glycerol release in young rabbit adipocytes whereas an increase in the rate of lipolysis cannot be shown with adult rabbit fat cells. Moreover, an antilipolytic effect can be shown for low concentrations of epinephrine when the basal rate of lipolysis is high in older rabbit adipocytes. Isoproterenol (beta-adrenomimetic) always exerts a strong adipokinetic effect, thus revealing functional beta-receptor sites. The blockade of alpha-adreneoceptor sites by phentolamine, which has no effect on young rabbits, abolishes the antilipolytic effect and unmasks strong lipolytic effect of epinephrine on aged and normal rabbit adipocytes. The loss of beta-adrenergic responsiveness towards epinephrine in the aging rabbit is linked to the involvement of an increased alpha-adrenergic responsiveness. The stimulation of alpha receptor sites by epinephrine leads to a depressive effect on lipolysis (lack of adipokinetic effect or antilipolytic action).", "contents": "Inhibition of epinephrine-induced lipolysis in isolated white adipocytes of aging rabbits by increased alpha-adrenergic responsiveness. The aim of this study was to explain the unresponsiveness of rabbit perirenal adipose tissue to epinephrine. The in vitro lipolytic response to isoproterenol and to epinephrine alone or associated with alpha- or beta-adrenergic blocking agents, was studied in the adipocytes of rabbits of various ages. Epinephrine induces a large glycerol release in young rabbit adipocytes whereas an increase in the rate of lipolysis cannot be shown with adult rabbit fat cells. Moreover, an antilipolytic effect can be shown for low concentrations of epinephrine when the basal rate of lipolysis is high in older rabbit adipocytes. Isoproterenol (beta-adrenomimetic) always exerts a strong adipokinetic effect, thus revealing functional beta-receptor sites. The blockade of alpha-adreneoceptor sites by phentolamine, which has no effect on young rabbits, abolishes the antilipolytic effect and unmasks strong lipolytic effect of epinephrine on aged and normal rabbit adipocytes. The loss of beta-adrenergic responsiveness towards epinephrine in the aging rabbit is linked to the involvement of an increased alpha-adrenergic responsiveness. The stimulation of alpha receptor sites by epinephrine leads to a depressive effect on lipolysis (lack of adipokinetic effect or antilipolytic action).", "PMID": 438661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4184", "title": "The stereochemical configuration of lysosomal phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine: comparison with lysobisphosphatidic acid.", "content": "Lysosomal phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine were isolated from liver of rats treated with Triton WR 1339 and from cultured BHK-cells. Stereochemical analysis proved that these lipids, in contrast to the lysosomal lysobisphosphatidic acid, were derivatives of sn-glycero-3-phosphate.", "contents": "The stereochemical configuration of lysosomal phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine: comparison with lysobisphosphatidic acid. Lysosomal phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine were isolated from liver of rats treated with Triton WR 1339 and from cultured BHK-cells. Stereochemical analysis proved that these lipids, in contrast to the lysosomal lysobisphosphatidic acid, were derivatives of sn-glycero-3-phosphate.", "PMID": 438662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4185", "title": "12alpha-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase from Clostridium group P strain C48-50 ATCC No. 29733: partial purification and characterization.", "content": "The growth of Clostridium group P strain C48-50 [an anaerobe that contains 12alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (12alpha-HSDH) in the absence of other dehydrogenases active upon bile salts] is greatly enhanced by the addition of 2.0% d-fructose or d-glucose to the growth medium. Other sugars were less effective. The production of NADP-dependent 12alpha-HSDH paralleled the growth of the organism which was optimal at 72 hr. Growth (and enzyme production) were suppressed by the addition of bile salt to the medium; the order of suppression was deoxycholate > chenodeoxycholate >> cholate; 1 mM of either of the dihydroxy-bile salts inhibited 96% of the growth and 100% of the enzyme production. Kinetic studies on cell-free preparations of 12alpha-HSDH revealed a pH optimum of 7.8 with greater linearity of NADP evolution with time occurring only at more alkaline pH values (9-10). Lineweaver-Burke plots revealed Michaelis constant (K(m)) values in the range of 3-5 x 10(-4) M for deoxycholate and its glycine and taurine conjugates, while higher values were found for cholate and conjugates (K(m) value for taurocholate was 3 x 10(-3) M). Although there was no activity with NAD, 12alpha-HSDH was shown to bind onto both NAD- and NADP-Sepharose columns, with stronger binding on the latter. The enzyme was purified 20-fold by NAD-Sepharose chromatography. The molecular weight was estimated at 100,000 by Sephadex G-200 and a series of molecular weight markers. Substrate specificity studies showed that a variety of bile salts containing 12alpha-OH groups reacted; notably, the 3alpha-sulfates of cholate and deoxycholate were nonsubstrates.-Macdonald, I. A., J. F. Jellett and D. E. Mahony. 12alpha-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase from Clostridium Group P strain C48-50 #29733: partial purification and characterization.", "contents": "12alpha-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase from Clostridium group P strain C48-50 ATCC No. 29733: partial purification and characterization. The growth of Clostridium group P strain C48-50 [an anaerobe that contains 12alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (12alpha-HSDH) in the absence of other dehydrogenases active upon bile salts] is greatly enhanced by the addition of 2.0% d-fructose or d-glucose to the growth medium. Other sugars were less effective. The production of NADP-dependent 12alpha-HSDH paralleled the growth of the organism which was optimal at 72 hr. Growth (and enzyme production) were suppressed by the addition of bile salt to the medium; the order of suppression was deoxycholate > chenodeoxycholate >> cholate; 1 mM of either of the dihydroxy-bile salts inhibited 96% of the growth and 100% of the enzyme production. Kinetic studies on cell-free preparations of 12alpha-HSDH revealed a pH optimum of 7.8 with greater linearity of NADP evolution with time occurring only at more alkaline pH values (9-10). Lineweaver-Burke plots revealed Michaelis constant (K(m)) values in the range of 3-5 x 10(-4) M for deoxycholate and its glycine and taurine conjugates, while higher values were found for cholate and conjugates (K(m) value for taurocholate was 3 x 10(-3) M). Although there was no activity with NAD, 12alpha-HSDH was shown to bind onto both NAD- and NADP-Sepharose columns, with stronger binding on the latter. The enzyme was purified 20-fold by NAD-Sepharose chromatography. The molecular weight was estimated at 100,000 by Sephadex G-200 and a series of molecular weight markers. Substrate specificity studies showed that a variety of bile salts containing 12alpha-OH groups reacted; notably, the 3alpha-sulfates of cholate and deoxycholate were nonsubstrates.-Macdonald, I. A., J. F. Jellett and D. E. Mahony. 12alpha-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase from Clostridium Group P strain C48-50 #29733: partial purification and characterization.", "PMID": 438663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4186", "title": "Enzyme-linked immunoassay of ursodeoxycholic acid in serum.", "content": "A sensitive and specific enzyme-linked immunoassay for the measurement of ursodeoxycholic acid in human serum was developed. Ursodeoxycholic acid conjugated to alkaline phosphatase (from calf intestine) was used as a tracer. An antiserum to ursodeoxycholic acid serum was raised in rabbits using ursodeoxycholic acid--bovine serum albumin conjugate as an antigen. The binding required 1 hr at 42 degrees C; separation of the bound tracer was achieved by addition of a second antibody, and alkaline phosphatase activity of this bound complex was measured colorimetrically. The ratio of bound to total enzyme activity decreased linearly with a logarithmic increase in ursodeoxycholic acid concentration from 20 to 900 pmol. The specificity and sensitivity of this enzyme-linked immunoassay were similar to those of a radioimmunoassay reported previously. The serum ursodeoxycholic acid levels measured by this method correlated well with those determined by gas--liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay. Based on these findings, this enzyme-linked immunoassay of bile acid might be useful as a tool for the routine clinical analysis of serum bile acids.", "contents": "Enzyme-linked immunoassay of ursodeoxycholic acid in serum. A sensitive and specific enzyme-linked immunoassay for the measurement of ursodeoxycholic acid in human serum was developed. Ursodeoxycholic acid conjugated to alkaline phosphatase (from calf intestine) was used as a tracer. An antiserum to ursodeoxycholic acid serum was raised in rabbits using ursodeoxycholic acid--bovine serum albumin conjugate as an antigen. The binding required 1 hr at 42 degrees C; separation of the bound tracer was achieved by addition of a second antibody, and alkaline phosphatase activity of this bound complex was measured colorimetrically. The ratio of bound to total enzyme activity decreased linearly with a logarithmic increase in ursodeoxycholic acid concentration from 20 to 900 pmol. The specificity and sensitivity of this enzyme-linked immunoassay were similar to those of a radioimmunoassay reported previously. The serum ursodeoxycholic acid levels measured by this method correlated well with those determined by gas--liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay. Based on these findings, this enzyme-linked immunoassay of bile acid might be useful as a tool for the routine clinical analysis of serum bile acids.", "PMID": 438664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4187", "title": "Metabolism of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid by rat liver in vivo and in vitro.", "content": "The metabolism of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid was studied in the bile fistula rats and in preparations from rat liver homogenates. In the bile fistula rats, the main products were chenodeoxycholic acid, alpha-muricholic acid, and beta-muricholic acid. Only small amounts of cholic acid were formed. Incubations of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid with microsomes and NADPH yielded as the main product 3 alpha, 6 beta, 7 alpha-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid. The formation of small amounts of 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid was shown. The major product in incubations of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid with microsomes and the 100,000 g supernatant fluid fortified with ATP was identified as 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 24 xi-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid. This compound was converted into chenodeoxycholic acid and its metabolites in the bile fistula rat.", "contents": "Metabolism of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid by rat liver in vivo and in vitro. The metabolism of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid was studied in the bile fistula rats and in preparations from rat liver homogenates. In the bile fistula rats, the main products were chenodeoxycholic acid, alpha-muricholic acid, and beta-muricholic acid. Only small amounts of cholic acid were formed. Incubations of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid with microsomes and NADPH yielded as the main product 3 alpha, 6 beta, 7 alpha-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid. The formation of small amounts of 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid was shown. The major product in incubations of 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid with microsomes and the 100,000 g supernatant fluid fortified with ATP was identified as 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 24 xi-trihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid. This compound was converted into chenodeoxycholic acid and its metabolites in the bile fistula rat.", "PMID": 438665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4188", "title": "Synthesis of all-cis-1,3-diacylcyclopentane-1,2,3-triol-2-phosphate via acyl group migration in a cyclic diglyceride analog.", "content": "The acid-catalyzed isomerization of the diglyceride analog (1,2,3/0)-1,2-dipalmitoylcyclopentane-1,2,3-triol has been used to generate syn-syn-1,3-diacyl-cyclopentane-1,2,3-triol, a required intermediate in the synthesis of a symmetrical all-cis-1,2,3/0-2P cyclopentanoid phosphatidic acid analog. The all-cis cyclo-phosphatidic acid analog has therefore been obtained in the free acid form and as the diphenyl ester, dimethyl ester, and dipotassium salt derivatives. The compounds have been characterized by microanalysis and spectroscopic methods. The 1,2,3/0-2P analog is now available for comparative studies with the corresponding all-trans cyclophosphatidic acid (1,3/2-2P).", "contents": "Synthesis of all-cis-1,3-diacylcyclopentane-1,2,3-triol-2-phosphate via acyl group migration in a cyclic diglyceride analog. The acid-catalyzed isomerization of the diglyceride analog (1,2,3/0)-1,2-dipalmitoylcyclopentane-1,2,3-triol has been used to generate syn-syn-1,3-diacyl-cyclopentane-1,2,3-triol, a required intermediate in the synthesis of a symmetrical all-cis-1,2,3/0-2P cyclopentanoid phosphatidic acid analog. The all-cis cyclo-phosphatidic acid analog has therefore been obtained in the free acid form and as the diphenyl ester, dimethyl ester, and dipotassium salt derivatives. The compounds have been characterized by microanalysis and spectroscopic methods. The 1,2,3/0-2P analog is now available for comparative studies with the corresponding all-trans cyclophosphatidic acid (1,3/2-2P).", "PMID": 438666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4189", "title": "An improved method for the covalent attachment of glycolipids to solid supports and macromolecules.", "content": "A simplified method is presented for the oxidation of the olefinic bond of the sphingosine moiety of glycosphingolipids to a carboxyl group. Coupling of such \"glycolipid acids\" to glass beads, agarose gels, proteins, and polyacrylic hydrazide polymers is described. Solid supports and macromolecules that have been derivatized in this fashion are useful reagents for a variety of studies in cell biology and immunology.", "contents": "An improved method for the covalent attachment of glycolipids to solid supports and macromolecules. A simplified method is presented for the oxidation of the olefinic bond of the sphingosine moiety of glycosphingolipids to a carboxyl group. Coupling of such \"glycolipid acids\" to glass beads, agarose gels, proteins, and polyacrylic hydrazide polymers is described. Solid supports and macromolecules that have been derivatized in this fashion are useful reagents for a variety of studies in cell biology and immunology.", "PMID": 438667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4190", "title": "Proton magnetic resonance identification and discrimination of stereoisomers of C27 steroids using lanthanide shift reagents.", "content": "A simple proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic method is described for the identification and and confirmation of several stereoisomeric paris of C27 stanols as well as their keto and acetate derivatives related to cholesterol. The method, which involves the use of lanthanide shift reagents, is useful in distinguishing clearly between the isomeric pairs differing only in the geometry of a functional group and/or of the A/B-ring junction in the steroid skeleton.", "contents": "Proton magnetic resonance identification and discrimination of stereoisomers of C27 steroids using lanthanide shift reagents. A simple proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic method is described for the identification and and confirmation of several stereoisomeric paris of C27 stanols as well as their keto and acetate derivatives related to cholesterol. The method, which involves the use of lanthanide shift reagents, is useful in distinguishing clearly between the isomeric pairs differing only in the geometry of a functional group and/or of the A/B-ring junction in the steroid skeleton.", "PMID": 438668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4191", "title": "Extraction of small amounts of oxytocin from biological fluids by means of agarose-bound neurophysin.", "content": "The use of agarose-bound neurophysin for the extraction of oxytocin from biological fluids is described. Oxytocin can be extracted from plasma, urine and cerebrospinal fluid with a high rate of recovery and samples varying widely in volume and oxytocin concentration can be tested by the method. Columns can be used to extract and concentrate dilute samples, or to help identify small amounts of neurohypophysial hormones by affinity chromatography. The oxytocin can be eluted from the column directly into the buffer used for subsequent bioassay. The composition of the final extract is constant and independent of the composition of the sample. The specificity of the binding is high. It is suggested that the method has many advantages over others in current use.", "contents": "Extraction of small amounts of oxytocin from biological fluids by means of agarose-bound neurophysin. The use of agarose-bound neurophysin for the extraction of oxytocin from biological fluids is described. Oxytocin can be extracted from plasma, urine and cerebrospinal fluid with a high rate of recovery and samples varying widely in volume and oxytocin concentration can be tested by the method. Columns can be used to extract and concentrate dilute samples, or to help identify small amounts of neurohypophysial hormones by affinity chromatography. The oxytocin can be eluted from the column directly into the buffer used for subsequent bioassay. The composition of the final extract is constant and independent of the composition of the sample. The specificity of the binding is high. It is suggested that the method has many advantages over others in current use.", "PMID": 438695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4192", "title": "Effects of cyproterone and cyproterone acetate on the adrenal gland in the rat: studies in vivo and in vitro.", "content": "Male Wistar rats were treated for three weeks with cyproterone (1.7 or 5.1 mg/day) or cyproterone acetate (2 or 6 mg/day). The adrenal weights of animals treated with either dose of cyproterone acetate were significantly less (P less than 0.001) than those of untreated animals. In contrast, the adrenal weights of animals treated with cyproterone did not differ from those of the controls. The concentrations of corticosterone in the plasma were significantly less (P less than 0.001) in both groups treated with cyproterone acetate compared with those of the controls; only the higher dose of cyproterone reduced the plasma concentration of corticosterone (P less than 0.001). Cyproterone acetate inhibited the rat adrenal 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-5-ene,4-ene-isomerase complex in vitro, with both pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone as substrates. Analysis of the reaction rates suggested an uncompetitive mode of inhibition. These results suggest that in rats the antiandrogens cyproterone and cyproterone acetate may provoke adrenal insufficiency by inhibition of steroid biosynthesis. Furthermore, indirect evidence from the mass and morphology of the adrenal suggests that cyproterone acetate may also suppress production or secretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland.", "contents": "Effects of cyproterone and cyproterone acetate on the adrenal gland in the rat: studies in vivo and in vitro. Male Wistar rats were treated for three weeks with cyproterone (1.7 or 5.1 mg/day) or cyproterone acetate (2 or 6 mg/day). The adrenal weights of animals treated with either dose of cyproterone acetate were significantly less (P less than 0.001) than those of untreated animals. In contrast, the adrenal weights of animals treated with cyproterone did not differ from those of the controls. The concentrations of corticosterone in the plasma were significantly less (P less than 0.001) in both groups treated with cyproterone acetate compared with those of the controls; only the higher dose of cyproterone reduced the plasma concentration of corticosterone (P less than 0.001). Cyproterone acetate inhibited the rat adrenal 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-5-ene,4-ene-isomerase complex in vitro, with both pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone as substrates. Analysis of the reaction rates suggested an uncompetitive mode of inhibition. These results suggest that in rats the antiandrogens cyproterone and cyproterone acetate may provoke adrenal insufficiency by inhibition of steroid biosynthesis. Furthermore, indirect evidence from the mass and morphology of the adrenal suggests that cyproterone acetate may also suppress production or secretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland.", "PMID": 438696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4193", "title": "Involvement of prostaglandins in the inhibition of growth hormone production in cultured pituitary cells by insulin.", "content": "The effect of insulin was tested on the rate of synthesis and release of growth hormone in cultured rat anterior pituitary cells. Concentrations of insulin between 10(-9) and 10(-7) mol/l (6--600 ng/ml or 0.15--15 mu./ml) inhibited synthesis of growth hormone; 10(-8) mol insulin/l was most effective. The effect was observed after a time-lag of at least 1 h. Insulin at concentrations between 3 x 10(-9) mol/l and 3 x 10(-7) mol/l also inhibited growth hormone secretion in 30 min incubations. The most effective insulin concentration in this case was 3 x 10(-8) mol/l. Insulin (10(-9)-10(-7) mol/l) also decreased the intracellular content of prostaglandins E and F. The effect was rapid, reaching a maximum after 30 min. Indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase, dramatically lowered the concentration of prostaglandins in the cells within 30 min; growth hormone synthesis was also decreased, but not until after 2 h of incubation. The results suggest that an initial response to insulin treatment is a lowering of intracellular levels of prostaglandins, which may then mediate a decrease in growth hormone synthesis, after a 1--2 h delay.", "contents": "Involvement of prostaglandins in the inhibition of growth hormone production in cultured pituitary cells by insulin. The effect of insulin was tested on the rate of synthesis and release of growth hormone in cultured rat anterior pituitary cells. Concentrations of insulin between 10(-9) and 10(-7) mol/l (6--600 ng/ml or 0.15--15 mu./ml) inhibited synthesis of growth hormone; 10(-8) mol insulin/l was most effective. The effect was observed after a time-lag of at least 1 h. Insulin at concentrations between 3 x 10(-9) mol/l and 3 x 10(-7) mol/l also inhibited growth hormone secretion in 30 min incubations. The most effective insulin concentration in this case was 3 x 10(-8) mol/l. Insulin (10(-9)-10(-7) mol/l) also decreased the intracellular content of prostaglandins E and F. The effect was rapid, reaching a maximum after 30 min. Indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase, dramatically lowered the concentration of prostaglandins in the cells within 30 min; growth hormone synthesis was also decreased, but not until after 2 h of incubation. The results suggest that an initial response to insulin treatment is a lowering of intracellular levels of prostaglandins, which may then mediate a decrease in growth hormone synthesis, after a 1--2 h delay.", "PMID": 438697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4194", "title": "Interaction of ovarian tissues in the control of follicular steroidogenesis in culture.", "content": "The interaction between developing antral follicles and other ovarian tissues in sheep was examined in vitro. Small follicles (2.0--2.9 mm in diameter) were co-cultured with a single ovarian component for 48 h, then separated and cultured singly for a further 72 h during which time changes in follicular steroidogenesis and structure were measured. Control follicles, cultured together for 48 h before separation, had a mean total daily steroid output during the 72 h test period of 180.4 +/- 12.6 (S.E.M.) pmol mg tissue-1 24 h-1; oestrogen (61.7 +/- 8.2 pmol mg-1 24 h-1) and testosterone (84.4 +/- 9.2 pmol mg-1 24 h-1) accounted for 81% of the steroid secreted by control follicles. The presence of stromal tissue during co-culture depressed (P less than 0.01) the subsequent output of total steroid by 22%, oestrogen by 81% and testosterone by 38%; progesterone output was, however, over twice that of the controls. There was no distinctive structural differences between follicles in the control and stromal groups. Luteal tissue enhanced (P less than 0.01) the output of total steroid by 51%, testosterone by 55% and progesterone by 242%; oestrogen output was similar to that in the controls. Follicles co-cultured with luteal tissue were characterized by extensive hypertrophy of the theca interna. Developing follicles co-cultured with large non-atretic follicles had a similar total steroid output, a slightly higher oestrogen output and more thecal hypertrophy than the controls. Follicles co-cultured with large atretic follicles differed from controls only with respect to their greater capacity to synthesize progesterone.", "contents": "Interaction of ovarian tissues in the control of follicular steroidogenesis in culture. The interaction between developing antral follicles and other ovarian tissues in sheep was examined in vitro. Small follicles (2.0--2.9 mm in diameter) were co-cultured with a single ovarian component for 48 h, then separated and cultured singly for a further 72 h during which time changes in follicular steroidogenesis and structure were measured. Control follicles, cultured together for 48 h before separation, had a mean total daily steroid output during the 72 h test period of 180.4 +/- 12.6 (S.E.M.) pmol mg tissue-1 24 h-1; oestrogen (61.7 +/- 8.2 pmol mg-1 24 h-1) and testosterone (84.4 +/- 9.2 pmol mg-1 24 h-1) accounted for 81% of the steroid secreted by control follicles. The presence of stromal tissue during co-culture depressed (P less than 0.01) the subsequent output of total steroid by 22%, oestrogen by 81% and testosterone by 38%; progesterone output was, however, over twice that of the controls. There was no distinctive structural differences between follicles in the control and stromal groups. Luteal tissue enhanced (P less than 0.01) the output of total steroid by 51%, testosterone by 55% and progesterone by 242%; oestrogen output was similar to that in the controls. Follicles co-cultured with luteal tissue were characterized by extensive hypertrophy of the theca interna. Developing follicles co-cultured with large non-atretic follicles had a similar total steroid output, a slightly higher oestrogen output and more thecal hypertrophy than the controls. Follicles co-cultured with large atretic follicles differed from controls only with respect to their greater capacity to synthesize progesterone.", "PMID": 438699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4195", "title": "Unoccupied binding sites for oestradiol in nuclei from human breast carcinomatous tissue.", "content": "The binding of oestradiol to a nuclear fraction extracted from human breast carcinomatous tissue was demonstrated. The material, which was extracted with KCl, sedimented at 3--4S and bound oestradiol with high affinity (dissociation constant approximately 2 X 10(-10) mol/l). Oestriol, diethylstilboestrol and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (100-fold excesses) competed with [3H]oestradiol for the binding sites (binding inhibited by 89 +/- 8 (S.D.), 92 +/- 6 and 57 +/- 8% respectively), whereas progesterone and cortisol (100-fold excesses) did not (binding suppressed by 5 +/- 5 and 2 +/- 3% respectively). Similar competition patterns were found for cytoplasmic material which bound oestradiol. The binding occurred at 4 degrees C and was therefore considered to be a measure of the amount of binding material unoccupied by endogenous oestrogen, Unoccupied binding sites for oestradiol in the nucleus and cytoplasm were measured in 35 samples of breast carcinomatous tissue using sucrose gradient centrifugation. In 17 out of 35 tumorus, unoccupied nuclear and cytoplasmic 8S and 4S binding sites could be detected. Three out of 35 tumours contained unoccupied nuclear binding sites and 4S cytoplasmic binding sites. Nuclear binding sites only were found in two out of 35 tumours. Unoccupied nuclear binding sites were not detected in 13 out of 35 tumours and ten of these tumours also did not contain unoccupied cytoplasmic binding sites.", "contents": "Unoccupied binding sites for oestradiol in nuclei from human breast carcinomatous tissue. The binding of oestradiol to a nuclear fraction extracted from human breast carcinomatous tissue was demonstrated. The material, which was extracted with KCl, sedimented at 3--4S and bound oestradiol with high affinity (dissociation constant approximately 2 X 10(-10) mol/l). Oestriol, diethylstilboestrol and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (100-fold excesses) competed with [3H]oestradiol for the binding sites (binding inhibited by 89 +/- 8 (S.D.), 92 +/- 6 and 57 +/- 8% respectively), whereas progesterone and cortisol (100-fold excesses) did not (binding suppressed by 5 +/- 5 and 2 +/- 3% respectively). Similar competition patterns were found for cytoplasmic material which bound oestradiol. The binding occurred at 4 degrees C and was therefore considered to be a measure of the amount of binding material unoccupied by endogenous oestrogen, Unoccupied binding sites for oestradiol in the nucleus and cytoplasm were measured in 35 samples of breast carcinomatous tissue using sucrose gradient centrifugation. In 17 out of 35 tumorus, unoccupied nuclear and cytoplasmic 8S and 4S binding sites could be detected. Three out of 35 tumours contained unoccupied nuclear binding sites and 4S cytoplasmic binding sites. Nuclear binding sites only were found in two out of 35 tumours. Unoccupied nuclear binding sites were not detected in 13 out of 35 tumours and ten of these tumours also did not contain unoccupied cytoplasmic binding sites.", "PMID": 438706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4196", "title": "Adrenocortical function tests in dogs with hyperfunctioning adrenocortical tumours.", "content": "The response has been studied in nine dogs with hyperadrenocorticism due to adrenocortical tumours to the administration of dexamethasone, insulin, lysine-vasopressin and tetracosactide by measuring the changes in plasma cortisol concentration. Administration of dexamethasone did not produce a decrease in the plasma concentration of cortisol in any of these dogs. Administration of insulin caused slight increases in the plasma concentration of cortisol in four out of eight dogs. Lysine-vasopressin increased the plasma concentration of cortisol in eight out of nine dogs, three responded supranomally. Eight out of the nine dogs responded to tetracosactide administration, three responded supranormally, It is concluded that in the dog, in contrast to man, the lysine-vasopressin test cannot be used to differentiate between pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and hyperadrenocorticism due to an adenocortical tumour. Apparently pituitary ACTH is not completely depleted in dogs with hyperfunctioning adrenocortical tumours.", "contents": "Adrenocortical function tests in dogs with hyperfunctioning adrenocortical tumours. The response has been studied in nine dogs with hyperadrenocorticism due to adrenocortical tumours to the administration of dexamethasone, insulin, lysine-vasopressin and tetracosactide by measuring the changes in plasma cortisol concentration. Administration of dexamethasone did not produce a decrease in the plasma concentration of cortisol in any of these dogs. Administration of insulin caused slight increases in the plasma concentration of cortisol in four out of eight dogs. Lysine-vasopressin increased the plasma concentration of cortisol in eight out of nine dogs, three responded supranomally. Eight out of the nine dogs responded to tetracosactide administration, three responded supranormally, It is concluded that in the dog, in contrast to man, the lysine-vasopressin test cannot be used to differentiate between pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and hyperadrenocorticism due to an adenocortical tumour. Apparently pituitary ACTH is not completely depleted in dogs with hyperfunctioning adrenocortical tumours.", "PMID": 438707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4197", "title": "Production of testosterone, 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol and androsterone by dispersed testicular interstitial cells and whole testes in vitro.", "content": "The production of 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol (androstanediol), androsterone and testosterone by whole rat testes and testicular interstitial cells dispersed with collagenase was studied in vitro. Luteinizing hormone stimulated the production of each of the androgens by cells prepared from 31- to 34-day-old rats. Half maximum stimulation of the production of each androgen occurred with approximately 3.5 ng NIH-LH-B9/ml medium. Androstanediol was the predominant product then androsterone and then testosterone. Luteinizing hormone stimulated the production of testerone, but not androstanediol or androsterone by dispersed interstitial cells from 200-day-old rats. The time-course of production and the effect of the concentration of cells on the production of these androgens suggested that in dispersed testicular interstitial cells from immature animals androstanediol and androsterone are formed, at least partially, by the metabolism of testosterone. In these experiments LH-stimulated testosterone production increased during incubation for 15--60 min and then remained constant up to 180 min. The concentrations of androstanediol and androsterone increased in a linear manner during incubation for 60--180 min. Varying the number of cells incubated yielded a positive correlation between cell concentration and the ratio 5 alpha-reduced androgen : testosterone produced. Luteinizing hormone stimulated production of each androgen by whole tests obtained from rats at 30--175 days of age. The serum concentration of testosterone in these rats increased abruptly at 50 days of age. Significant changes in androgen production in vitro also observed at this age included: (1) increased production of the three steroids when incubated in either the presence or absence of LH and (2) testosterone production, either in the presence or absence of LH, which represented a greater percentage of the total production of the three androgens.", "contents": "Production of testosterone, 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol and androsterone by dispersed testicular interstitial cells and whole testes in vitro. The production of 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol (androstanediol), androsterone and testosterone by whole rat testes and testicular interstitial cells dispersed with collagenase was studied in vitro. Luteinizing hormone stimulated the production of each of the androgens by cells prepared from 31- to 34-day-old rats. Half maximum stimulation of the production of each androgen occurred with approximately 3.5 ng NIH-LH-B9/ml medium. Androstanediol was the predominant product then androsterone and then testosterone. Luteinizing hormone stimulated the production of testerone, but not androstanediol or androsterone by dispersed interstitial cells from 200-day-old rats. The time-course of production and the effect of the concentration of cells on the production of these androgens suggested that in dispersed testicular interstitial cells from immature animals androstanediol and androsterone are formed, at least partially, by the metabolism of testosterone. In these experiments LH-stimulated testosterone production increased during incubation for 15--60 min and then remained constant up to 180 min. The concentrations of androstanediol and androsterone increased in a linear manner during incubation for 60--180 min. Varying the number of cells incubated yielded a positive correlation between cell concentration and the ratio 5 alpha-reduced androgen : testosterone produced. Luteinizing hormone stimulated production of each androgen by whole tests obtained from rats at 30--175 days of age. The serum concentration of testosterone in these rats increased abruptly at 50 days of age. Significant changes in androgen production in vitro also observed at this age included: (1) increased production of the three steroids when incubated in either the presence or absence of LH and (2) testosterone production, either in the presence or absence of LH, which represented a greater percentage of the total production of the three androgens.", "PMID": 438708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4198", "title": "Alterations in adrenal growth and corticosteroid content in foetal and neonatal rats developing at high altitude.", "content": "To study the effects of chronic maternal hypoxia on the growth and functional development of foetal and neonatal adrenal glands, Long-Evans rats were acclimatized to high altitude (3800 m) before mating and were maintained at this height throughout gestation. The body growth of the progeny at high altitude was essentially normal during the perinatal period, but adrenal weight and adrenocortical function showed marked differences from those of control rats maintained at sea level. The adrenal glands were larger in foetuses but smaller in neonates, compared with the adrenal glands of control animals maintained at sea level. Differences in the protein content of the adrenal glands between the two groups paralleled differences in adrenal weight. The concentration and content of corticosterone in the adrenal glands of both foetuses and neonates kept at high altitude were markedly lower than values in animals kept at sea level. The lower adrenal corticosterone content was not reflected in the concentration of the hormone in the peripheral plasma, since this was essentially the same at high altitude and at sea level in both mothers and perinatal animals. The reduction in the adrenal corticosterone content was accompanied by and may have resulted from, a reduction in the concentration of cytochrome P-450 in the adrenal tissue of foetuses maintained at high altitude. Possible explanations for the dichotomous results are discussed.", "contents": "Alterations in adrenal growth and corticosteroid content in foetal and neonatal rats developing at high altitude. To study the effects of chronic maternal hypoxia on the growth and functional development of foetal and neonatal adrenal glands, Long-Evans rats were acclimatized to high altitude (3800 m) before mating and were maintained at this height throughout gestation. The body growth of the progeny at high altitude was essentially normal during the perinatal period, but adrenal weight and adrenocortical function showed marked differences from those of control rats maintained at sea level. The adrenal glands were larger in foetuses but smaller in neonates, compared with the adrenal glands of control animals maintained at sea level. Differences in the protein content of the adrenal glands between the two groups paralleled differences in adrenal weight. The concentration and content of corticosterone in the adrenal glands of both foetuses and neonates kept at high altitude were markedly lower than values in animals kept at sea level. The lower adrenal corticosterone content was not reflected in the concentration of the hormone in the peripheral plasma, since this was essentially the same at high altitude and at sea level in both mothers and perinatal animals. The reduction in the adrenal corticosterone content was accompanied by and may have resulted from, a reduction in the concentration of cytochrome P-450 in the adrenal tissue of foetuses maintained at high altitude. Possible explanations for the dichotomous results are discussed.", "PMID": 438709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4199", "title": "Mammary growth during pregnancy in hypophysectomized or bromocriptine-treated goats.", "content": "Mammogenesis in primiparous hypophysectomized goats has been assessed between days 60 and 120 of gestation and compared with that found in untreated goats and goats treated with 5 mg bromocriptine/day. There were fivefold increases in the weight of lobulo-alveolar tissue in the hypophysectomized and bromocriptine-treated goats and a tenfold increase in the untreated goats. Histological examination of the mammary glands at 120 days showed normal structure, and determinations of lactose, lactose synthetase, cytosol enzymes, protein, DNA and RNA indicated qualitatively normal initiation of milk synthetic capabilities in both the hypophysectomized and bromocriptine-treated goats. Bromocriptine treatment lowered the plasma concentration of placental lactogen as well as that of prolactin. The results indicate that placental lactogen has important mammogenic effects during pregnancy.", "contents": "Mammary growth during pregnancy in hypophysectomized or bromocriptine-treated goats. Mammogenesis in primiparous hypophysectomized goats has been assessed between days 60 and 120 of gestation and compared with that found in untreated goats and goats treated with 5 mg bromocriptine/day. There were fivefold increases in the weight of lobulo-alveolar tissue in the hypophysectomized and bromocriptine-treated goats and a tenfold increase in the untreated goats. Histological examination of the mammary glands at 120 days showed normal structure, and determinations of lactose, lactose synthetase, cytosol enzymes, protein, DNA and RNA indicated qualitatively normal initiation of milk synthetic capabilities in both the hypophysectomized and bromocriptine-treated goats. Bromocriptine treatment lowered the plasma concentration of placental lactogen as well as that of prolactin. The results indicate that placental lactogen has important mammogenic effects during pregnancy.", "PMID": 438710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4200", "title": "Effects of exogenous cortisol on the uptake of corticosteroid by the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland.", "content": "Assay of corticosteroids in the plasma of guinea-pigs showed that concentrations were higher in lactating than in non-lactating and male animals. In five isolated perfused mammary gland experiments in which corticosteroids were at concentrations of 1,3--3,0 microgram/ml in the perfusate, equivalent to concentrations during lactation, the mean (+/- S.E.M.) uptake by the mammary gland was 900 +/- 210 ng g-1 h-1. In five experiments in which the concentrations of corticosteroid in the perfusate were 190--580 ng/ml, the uptake by the mammary gland was significantly lower (316 +/- 73 ng g-1 h-1; P less than 0.05). For the ten experiments there was a significant correlation between the concentration of corticosteroid in the perfusate and uptake by the mammary gland (P less than 0.05). No convincing evidence for a galactopoietic role of corticosteroids in the guinea-pig was obtained, although administration of cortisol signficantly stimulated the uptake of glutamine by the perfused gland.", "contents": "Effects of exogenous cortisol on the uptake of corticosteroid by the isolated perfused guinea-pig mammary gland. Assay of corticosteroids in the plasma of guinea-pigs showed that concentrations were higher in lactating than in non-lactating and male animals. In five isolated perfused mammary gland experiments in which corticosteroids were at concentrations of 1,3--3,0 microgram/ml in the perfusate, equivalent to concentrations during lactation, the mean (+/- S.E.M.) uptake by the mammary gland was 900 +/- 210 ng g-1 h-1. In five experiments in which the concentrations of corticosteroid in the perfusate were 190--580 ng/ml, the uptake by the mammary gland was significantly lower (316 +/- 73 ng g-1 h-1; P less than 0.05). For the ten experiments there was a significant correlation between the concentration of corticosteroid in the perfusate and uptake by the mammary gland (P less than 0.05). No convincing evidence for a galactopoietic role of corticosteroids in the guinea-pig was obtained, although administration of cortisol signficantly stimulated the uptake of glutamine by the perfused gland.", "PMID": 438711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4201", "title": "Internal quality control of radioimmunoassays: monitoring of error.", "content": "A cumulative sum technique has been specially designed to monitor the error between replicate determinations made on quality control plasma for consecutive batches of assays. This procedure has played a vital role in assessing assay performance. Special consideration has been given to small sample sizes (n = 2 or 3) which is generally the rule rather than the exception in many situations. This technique has been applied to numerous steroid radioimmunoassays and has ensured that both the mean value and the standard error of hormone levels of a quality control pool were under control. Data from routine assays of oestriol and testosterone in plasma from women are presented. Since this technique provides a sensitive measure of monitoring error, it assists the endocrinologist in elucidating statistical inferences which are a manifestation of assay performance.", "contents": "Internal quality control of radioimmunoassays: monitoring of error. A cumulative sum technique has been specially designed to monitor the error between replicate determinations made on quality control plasma for consecutive batches of assays. This procedure has played a vital role in assessing assay performance. Special consideration has been given to small sample sizes (n = 2 or 3) which is generally the rule rather than the exception in many situations. This technique has been applied to numerous steroid radioimmunoassays and has ensured that both the mean value and the standard error of hormone levels of a quality control pool were under control. Data from routine assays of oestriol and testosterone in plasma from women are presented. Since this technique provides a sensitive measure of monitoring error, it assists the endocrinologist in elucidating statistical inferences which are a manifestation of assay performance.", "PMID": 438712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4202", "title": "Effects of pinealectomy on the secretion of luteinizing hormone, testosterone and prolactin in rams exposed to various lighting r\u00e9gimes.", "content": "Two experiments were carried out to study the effects of controlled lighting r\u00e9gimes on plasma levels of LH were low in all groups of rams, which made the detection of significant effects of any treatment very unlikely. Pinealectomy reduced the effects of changes in the daily photoperiod on the patterns of secretion of testosterone and prolactin. These findings establish the pineal gland as an organ which influences the endocrine responses of rams to photoperiodic stimuli and it is concluded that the pineal gland is probably important as a mediator of seasonal reproductive changes in these animals.", "contents": "Effects of pinealectomy on the secretion of luteinizing hormone, testosterone and prolactin in rams exposed to various lighting r\u00e9gimes. Two experiments were carried out to study the effects of controlled lighting r\u00e9gimes on plasma levels of LH were low in all groups of rams, which made the detection of significant effects of any treatment very unlikely. Pinealectomy reduced the effects of changes in the daily photoperiod on the patterns of secretion of testosterone and prolactin. These findings establish the pineal gland as an organ which influences the endocrine responses of rams to photoperiodic stimuli and it is concluded that the pineal gland is probably important as a mediator of seasonal reproductive changes in these animals.", "PMID": 438714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4203", "title": "Tissue distribution of immunoreactive somatostatin in the South African clawed toad (Xenopus laevis).", "content": "Immunoreactive somatostatin is present in the brain, gut and pancreas of the South African clawed toad, but is absent from the skin, a rich source of many other brain-gut peptides.", "contents": "Tissue distribution of immunoreactive somatostatin in the South African clawed toad (Xenopus laevis). Immunoreactive somatostatin is present in the brain, gut and pancreas of the South African clawed toad, but is absent from the skin, a rich source of many other brain-gut peptides.", "PMID": 438715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4204", "title": "Effect of the timing of perphenazine administration on pregnancy in the rat.", "content": "Perphenazine in doses of 10--50 mg kg-1 day-1 given at the early stages of pregnancy delayed nidation up to day 8 of pregnancy. Once nidation had occurred the length of the rest of the gestation period was normal. Doses of up to 20 mg perphenazine kg-1 day-1, injected on days 1--7, prolonged gestation but the mothers and young were apparently normal; lower doses were effective only when treatment commenced soon after copulation. The delay in implantation of the ovum caused by perphenazine was corrected and and implantation was brought about immediately, by injection of 0.1 microgram oestradiol together with perphenazine. It is suggested that perphenazine delays and prevents implantation in rats by counteracting oestrogen release from the ovaries.", "contents": "Effect of the timing of perphenazine administration on pregnancy in the rat. Perphenazine in doses of 10--50 mg kg-1 day-1 given at the early stages of pregnancy delayed nidation up to day 8 of pregnancy. Once nidation had occurred the length of the rest of the gestation period was normal. Doses of up to 20 mg perphenazine kg-1 day-1, injected on days 1--7, prolonged gestation but the mothers and young were apparently normal; lower doses were effective only when treatment commenced soon after copulation. The delay in implantation of the ovum caused by perphenazine was corrected and and implantation was brought about immediately, by injection of 0.1 microgram oestradiol together with perphenazine. It is suggested that perphenazine delays and prevents implantation in rats by counteracting oestrogen release from the ovaries.", "PMID": 438716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4205", "title": "Effect of pregnancy on the collagen content of the oviduct in the lizard.", "content": "It was shown experimentally that both the growth and total collagen content of the oviduct in the lizard Acanthodactylus scutellatus hardyi are mainly dependent on the number of eggs present. There was rapid formation of collagen if more than two eggs were present.", "contents": "Effect of pregnancy on the collagen content of the oviduct in the lizard. It was shown experimentally that both the growth and total collagen content of the oviduct in the lizard Acanthodactylus scutellatus hardyi are mainly dependent on the number of eggs present. There was rapid formation of collagen if more than two eggs were present.", "PMID": 438717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4206", "title": "The electrical properties of a crustacean sensory dendrite.", "content": "1. The input properties and the response to stretch of a coxal receptor, the S fibre of the crab Scylla serrata, were studied using two and three intracellular microelectrodes. 2. In the relaxed receptor the transmembrane potential ranged from about -60 to -70 mV, and the input resistance, RT, from 1 to 3 M omega. The input IV relationship, studied by injecting slow-rising current ramps, was not linear either in the hyperpolarizing or in the depolarizing quadrants. 3. Low values of RT and linear IV relationship were associated with a large leakage of the microelectrodes. 4. The response to step stretches was complex, consisting of an initial depolarizing transient, Va, and a steady-state depolarizing plateau, Vs. Both Va and Vs propagated with decrement in the fibre which was about 9 mm long. The spatial decrement of Va and Vs was equal to that of the response to distally injected current pulses of comparable duration and amplitude. 5. On the basis of the spatial decrement of both Va and Vs the dendrite can be considered equivalent, for current flowing from its distal to its proximal end, to a semi-infinite cable having a length constant of between 4 and 6 cm. 6. The voltage transients recorded in response to long current pulses reached 84% of their final value in a time (t84%) ranging from 150 to 180 ms in fibres in which RT was 2 M omega or larger. t84% was smaller in fibres having a lower RT. 7. The time course of the transients recorded in response to injected current pulses deviated from the semi-infinite cable model in a manner suggesting the presence of a partial short-circuit. For this reason the membrane time constant of the fibre is considered larger (by an undetermined amount/ than t84%. 8. The fibre presented less resistance to current flowing from its proximal to its distal end than to current flowing in the opposite direction. For this reason, and also because of the time course of the voltage transient, it is concluded that the distal sensory endings of the fibre have the properties of a leaky end termination, even in the non-stimulated receptors.", "contents": "The electrical properties of a crustacean sensory dendrite. 1. The input properties and the response to stretch of a coxal receptor, the S fibre of the crab Scylla serrata, were studied using two and three intracellular microelectrodes. 2. In the relaxed receptor the transmembrane potential ranged from about -60 to -70 mV, and the input resistance, RT, from 1 to 3 M omega. The input IV relationship, studied by injecting slow-rising current ramps, was not linear either in the hyperpolarizing or in the depolarizing quadrants. 3. Low values of RT and linear IV relationship were associated with a large leakage of the microelectrodes. 4. The response to step stretches was complex, consisting of an initial depolarizing transient, Va, and a steady-state depolarizing plateau, Vs. Both Va and Vs propagated with decrement in the fibre which was about 9 mm long. The spatial decrement of Va and Vs was equal to that of the response to distally injected current pulses of comparable duration and amplitude. 5. On the basis of the spatial decrement of both Va and Vs the dendrite can be considered equivalent, for current flowing from its distal to its proximal end, to a semi-infinite cable having a length constant of between 4 and 6 cm. 6. The voltage transients recorded in response to long current pulses reached 84% of their final value in a time (t84%) ranging from 150 to 180 ms in fibres in which RT was 2 M omega or larger. t84% was smaller in fibres having a lower RT. 7. The time course of the transients recorded in response to injected current pulses deviated from the semi-infinite cable model in a manner suggesting the presence of a partial short-circuit. For this reason the membrane time constant of the fibre is considered larger (by an undetermined amount/ than t84%. 8. The fibre presented less resistance to current flowing from its proximal to its distal end than to current flowing in the opposite direction. For this reason, and also because of the time course of the voltage transient, it is concluded that the distal sensory endings of the fibre have the properties of a leaky end termination, even in the non-stimulated receptors.", "PMID": 438718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4207", "title": "Respiratory gas exchange in the resting starry flounder, Platichthys stellatus: a comparison with other teleosts.", "content": "A wide range of respiratory, ventilatory, and cardiovascular parameters have been recorded under completely resting conditions in the starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus), a generally inactive benthic teleost. The results differ in a number of important respects from those of a previous study on the same species. The present data have also been compared with those reported for the active pelagic rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and for other teleost species. Of particular note in the flounder, relative to the trout, are low arterial and venous PO2's, a low arterial-venous O2 content difference, a low transfer factor and high diffusion gradient for O2 across the gills, a high in vivo blood O2 affinity, a high cardiac output and stroke volume accompanied by a low peripheral vascular resistance, a low ventilation volume, a low ventilation-perfusion ratio, and a low capacity-rate ratio for O2 exchange at the gills. Parameters of CO2 transport and acid-base regulation appear conventional, though blood CO2 contents and lactate concentrations are low. The respiratory strategies of inactive versus active, and benthic versus pelagic teleosts are discussed.", "contents": "Respiratory gas exchange in the resting starry flounder, Platichthys stellatus: a comparison with other teleosts. A wide range of respiratory, ventilatory, and cardiovascular parameters have been recorded under completely resting conditions in the starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus), a generally inactive benthic teleost. The results differ in a number of important respects from those of a previous study on the same species. The present data have also been compared with those reported for the active pelagic rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and for other teleost species. Of particular note in the flounder, relative to the trout, are low arterial and venous PO2's, a low arterial-venous O2 content difference, a low transfer factor and high diffusion gradient for O2 across the gills, a high in vivo blood O2 affinity, a high cardiac output and stroke volume accompanied by a low peripheral vascular resistance, a low ventilation volume, a low ventilation-perfusion ratio, and a low capacity-rate ratio for O2 exchange at the gills. Parameters of CO2 transport and acid-base regulation appear conventional, though blood CO2 contents and lactate concentrations are low. The respiratory strategies of inactive versus active, and benthic versus pelagic teleosts are discussed.", "PMID": 438719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4208", "title": "A sliding microtubule model incorporating axonemal twist and compatible with three-dimensional ciliary bending.", "content": "1. Equations are developed to calculate the relative displacements of the doublet microtubules at the tip of a cilium when the microtubules twist about the axis of the organelle. 2. Displacements measured from electron micrographs show asymmetry (or skew) which can be matched quantitatively by the theoretical model with the appropriate selection of twist angle and orientation of the axoneme with respect to the plane of beat. 3. For Elliptio cilia the experimental results are consistent with a planar effective stroke and a recovery stroke involving a three-dimensional bend. The plane of the effective stroke is not normal to a surface containing the central pair of microtubules but contains microtubule 2 to produce the observed skew. 4. This model for the beat also explains the range of orientations of axoneme observed in sections through the metachronal wave.", "contents": "A sliding microtubule model incorporating axonemal twist and compatible with three-dimensional ciliary bending. 1. Equations are developed to calculate the relative displacements of the doublet microtubules at the tip of a cilium when the microtubules twist about the axis of the organelle. 2. Displacements measured from electron micrographs show asymmetry (or skew) which can be matched quantitatively by the theoretical model with the appropriate selection of twist angle and orientation of the axoneme with respect to the plane of beat. 3. For Elliptio cilia the experimental results are consistent with a planar effective stroke and a recovery stroke involving a three-dimensional bend. The plane of the effective stroke is not normal to a surface containing the central pair of microtubules but contains microtubule 2 to produce the observed skew. 4. This model for the beat also explains the range of orientations of axoneme observed in sections through the metachronal wave.", "PMID": 438720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4209", "title": "Electrogenic Na+ transport in a crustacean coxal receptor.", "content": "1. The response of the coxal receptors of the crab Scylla serrata to step stretches consisted of a partial action potential, Va, followed by a steady-state depolarization, Vs. The input resistance of the fibre was reduced during Vs. 2. In the absence of stimulation, the dendrites of the receptors depolarized when external Na+ was substituted with choline or Li+, and when the external K+ concentration was increased or decreased. The dendrites also depolarized when ouabain was added to the saline. 3. The amplitude of both Va and Vs was dependent on external Na+. In cells which were depolarized by ouabain, the amplitude of Vs increased when the K+ concentration of the saline was reduced. 4. Vs was followed by a small, but long-lasting, after-potential which was depolarizing when the membrane potential was between -70 and -60 mV. In cells depolarized by ouabain or by low K+ saline, the after-potential became hyperpolarizing. 5. When trains of brief stretches (each 5 ms in duration) were used as stimuli, the cells responded with trains of Va responses. During this tetanic stimulation the cells hyperpolarized; cessation of the stimulus train was followed by a long-lasting hyperpolarization (PTH). 6. PTH was abolished in Li+ saline, in low K+ saline, and in the presence of ouabain. In control or in low K+ saline, PTH was not accompanied by a decrease in the input resistance of the fibres. 7. It is concluded that an electrogenic Na+ pump (or equivalent process) contributes a substantial fraction of the membrane potential of the unstimulated coxal receptors. Pump activity could be increased by Na+-loading the distal part of the cells with trains of Va responses. By contrast, during the steady-state response to stretch, the pump was not activated.", "contents": "Electrogenic Na+ transport in a crustacean coxal receptor. 1. The response of the coxal receptors of the crab Scylla serrata to step stretches consisted of a partial action potential, Va, followed by a steady-state depolarization, Vs. The input resistance of the fibre was reduced during Vs. 2. In the absence of stimulation, the dendrites of the receptors depolarized when external Na+ was substituted with choline or Li+, and when the external K+ concentration was increased or decreased. The dendrites also depolarized when ouabain was added to the saline. 3. The amplitude of both Va and Vs was dependent on external Na+. In cells which were depolarized by ouabain, the amplitude of Vs increased when the K+ concentration of the saline was reduced. 4. Vs was followed by a small, but long-lasting, after-potential which was depolarizing when the membrane potential was between -70 and -60 mV. In cells depolarized by ouabain or by low K+ saline, the after-potential became hyperpolarizing. 5. When trains of brief stretches (each 5 ms in duration) were used as stimuli, the cells responded with trains of Va responses. During this tetanic stimulation the cells hyperpolarized; cessation of the stimulus train was followed by a long-lasting hyperpolarization (PTH). 6. PTH was abolished in Li+ saline, in low K+ saline, and in the presence of ouabain. In control or in low K+ saline, PTH was not accompanied by a decrease in the input resistance of the fibres. 7. It is concluded that an electrogenic Na+ pump (or equivalent process) contributes a substantial fraction of the membrane potential of the unstimulated coxal receptors. Pump activity could be increased by Na+-loading the distal part of the cells with trains of Va responses. By contrast, during the steady-state response to stretch, the pump was not activated.", "PMID": 438721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4210", "title": "Fluorescence and luminescence of isolated photophores of Porichthys.", "content": "1. Isolated photophores of Porichthys exposed to u.v. light (365 nm) exhibit a green fluorescence localized in the photocytes and a bluish fluorescence originating from the lens-like body. 2. The luminescence of photophores evoked by epinephrine, nor-epinephrine or potassium cyanide decreases with the intensity of the green fluorescence of the photogenic tissue; the bluish fluorescence of the lens-like body does not change significantly. 3. The total amount of light emitted is a linear function of the decrease of the greenish fluorescence intensity. The slope of the regression line is maximal in response to epinephrine or nor-epinephrine 5.10(-4)M and potassium cyanide 10(-3)M. It decreases significantly for higher concentrations. 4. The decrease of fluorescence observed during the light emission is tentatively explained by oxidation of a luciferin present in a fluorescent form in a fresh photophore.", "contents": "Fluorescence and luminescence of isolated photophores of Porichthys. 1. Isolated photophores of Porichthys exposed to u.v. light (365 nm) exhibit a green fluorescence localized in the photocytes and a bluish fluorescence originating from the lens-like body. 2. The luminescence of photophores evoked by epinephrine, nor-epinephrine or potassium cyanide decreases with the intensity of the green fluorescence of the photogenic tissue; the bluish fluorescence of the lens-like body does not change significantly. 3. The total amount of light emitted is a linear function of the decrease of the greenish fluorescence intensity. The slope of the regression line is maximal in response to epinephrine or nor-epinephrine 5.10(-4)M and potassium cyanide 10(-3)M. It decreases significantly for higher concentrations. 4. The decrease of fluorescence observed during the light emission is tentatively explained by oxidation of a luciferin present in a fluorescent form in a fresh photophore.", "PMID": 438722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4211", "title": "[Organ preservation by heavy water (D2O). Morphological and biochemical studies on heart and liver (author's transl)].", "content": "The tissue H2O of rabbit heart and rat liver was partially exchanged in situ with D2O. In rat liver, the loss of ATP, resulting from normothermic ischemia, was decreased after perfusion with D2O. The maximal protective effect was found when the proportion of D2O in the water of the liver tissue was 0.20. In both organs the protective effect of D2O could be correlated with a marked decrease in severe ischemic damage of cellular organelles, in particular mitochondria. D2O also increased the protective action of Mg-ions in the heart.", "contents": "[Organ preservation by heavy water (D2O). Morphological and biochemical studies on heart and liver (author's transl)]. The tissue H2O of rabbit heart and rat liver was partially exchanged in situ with D2O. In rat liver, the loss of ATP, resulting from normothermic ischemia, was decreased after perfusion with D2O. The maximal protective effect was found when the proportion of D2O in the water of the liver tissue was 0.20. In both organs the protective effect of D2O could be correlated with a marked decrease in severe ischemic damage of cellular organelles, in particular mitochondria. D2O also increased the protective action of Mg-ions in the heart.", "PMID": 438727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4212", "title": "Selenium content and glutathione peroxidase activity in the plasma and erythrocytes of non-pregnant and pregnant women.", "content": "Decreases in the glutathione peroxidase activity and in the selenium content were found in the plasma of pregnant women as compared with a control group. In the erythrocytes, both parameters remained unchanged. In both groups a fraction of about 0.90 of the glutathione peroxidase in the blood, was contained in the erythrocytes, whereas the selenium was nearly evenly distributed between plasma and red blood cells. A positive correlation existed between the total amount of selenium in the erythrocytes and that in the plasma.", "contents": "Selenium content and glutathione peroxidase activity in the plasma and erythrocytes of non-pregnant and pregnant women. Decreases in the glutathione peroxidase activity and in the selenium content were found in the plasma of pregnant women as compared with a control group. In the erythrocytes, both parameters remained unchanged. In both groups a fraction of about 0.90 of the glutathione peroxidase in the blood, was contained in the erythrocytes, whereas the selenium was nearly evenly distributed between plasma and red blood cells. A positive correlation existed between the total amount of selenium in the erythrocytes and that in the plasma.", "PMID": 438728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4213", "title": "Age related reference values for urinary free amino acids: a simple method of evaluation.", "content": "The urinary excretion of free amino acids has been studied on 339 normal subjects, using ion exchange chromatography. Age related reference values were obtained. A simple method for their evaluation is discussed, and the application of the method to the detection of increased glycinuria, resulting from n-dipropyl acetate therapy, is described.", "contents": "Age related reference values for urinary free amino acids: a simple method of evaluation. The urinary excretion of free amino acids has been studied on 339 normal subjects, using ion exchange chromatography. Age related reference values were obtained. A simple method for their evaluation is discussed, and the application of the method to the detection of increased glycinuria, resulting from n-dipropyl acetate therapy, is described.", "PMID": 438729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4214", "title": "Arginase and free amino acids in hyperargininemia: leukocyte arginine as a diagnostic parameter for heterozygotes.", "content": "Arginase activity and free amino acids were measured in plasma, erythrocytes and leukocytes of patients with hyperargininemia and in controls. There is no arginase activity in the leukocytes and erythrocytes of homozygous patients; in heterozygotes it is normal to low. The activity is 50 to 100 times higher in leukocytes than in erythrocytes. In controls as well as in patients and heterozygotes, the amino acid concentrations are higher in leukocytes than in plasma and erythrocytes. In addition to the increased arginine in the three blood compartments (the result of an arginase deficiency), there is also an obvious decrease of aspartic acid in the erythrocytes of the patients. The arginine concentration in leukocytes of heterozygotes is as high as in homozygotes and can therefore be used as a diagnostic parameter for heterozygotes.", "contents": "Arginase and free amino acids in hyperargininemia: leukocyte arginine as a diagnostic parameter for heterozygotes. Arginase activity and free amino acids were measured in plasma, erythrocytes and leukocytes of patients with hyperargininemia and in controls. There is no arginase activity in the leukocytes and erythrocytes of homozygous patients; in heterozygotes it is normal to low. The activity is 50 to 100 times higher in leukocytes than in erythrocytes. In controls as well as in patients and heterozygotes, the amino acid concentrations are higher in leukocytes than in plasma and erythrocytes. In addition to the increased arginine in the three blood compartments (the result of an arginase deficiency), there is also an obvious decrease of aspartic acid in the erythrocytes of the patients. The arginine concentration in leukocytes of heterozygotes is as high as in homozygotes and can therefore be used as a diagnostic parameter for heterozygotes.", "PMID": 438730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4215", "title": "Long-term observation of biochemical effects of lead in human experiments.", "content": "In extension of two previous series of experiments, the results of which have been partially reported (1), further long-term tests were performed with daily oral doses of 5 mg Pb++ in 2 subjects. Lead in whole blood, free protoporphyrin 9 (III) and 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity in erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and urinary 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin III excretion values were measured. From experiences with 8 human experiments, three compartmental phases of early detectable lead effect were postulated: 1. an \"erythrocytic\" reaction of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity, 2. \"hepatic\" reactions of 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin, and 3. an \"erythropoietic\" reaction of protoporphyrin.", "contents": "Long-term observation of biochemical effects of lead in human experiments. In extension of two previous series of experiments, the results of which have been partially reported (1), further long-term tests were performed with daily oral doses of 5 mg Pb++ in 2 subjects. Lead in whole blood, free protoporphyrin 9 (III) and 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity in erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and urinary 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin III excretion values were measured. From experiences with 8 human experiments, three compartmental phases of early detectable lead effect were postulated: 1. an \"erythrocytic\" reaction of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity, 2. \"hepatic\" reactions of 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin, and 3. an \"erythropoietic\" reaction of protoporphyrin.", "PMID": 438732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4216", "title": "A rapid enzymatic assay for methotrexate in serum.", "content": "A kinetic enzymological assay for methotrexate in serum is described; the results are available after 1.5 hours. The lower limit of sensivity is 50 nmol/1; the day-to-day variation coefficients compare favourably with other procedures (about 7% in the 200-600 nmol/1 range). The method uses purified dihydrofolic acid reductase from bovine liver. The problem of its instability in the assay is circumvented by several measures, e.g. the use of a reaction rate analyser.", "contents": "A rapid enzymatic assay for methotrexate in serum. A kinetic enzymological assay for methotrexate in serum is described; the results are available after 1.5 hours. The lower limit of sensivity is 50 nmol/1; the day-to-day variation coefficients compare favourably with other procedures (about 7% in the 200-600 nmol/1 range). The method uses purified dihydrofolic acid reductase from bovine liver. The problem of its instability in the assay is circumvented by several measures, e.g. the use of a reaction rate analyser.", "PMID": 438733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4217", "title": "[Computerized data processing for radioimmunoassay (author's transl)].", "content": "The computer programm of Marschner et al. ((1974), Arztl. Lab. 20, 184-191) for the calculation of radioimmunoassay data by spline functions was improved with regard to immediate availability of quality parameters. The existing programm was adapted to a computer Siemens 4004/151. Methods are reported for obtaining an exactly reproducible and objective smoothing of spline functions. The additional modifications enable even unskilled technicians to use the programm.", "contents": "[Computerized data processing for radioimmunoassay (author's transl)]. The computer programm of Marschner et al. ((1974), Arztl. Lab. 20, 184-191) for the calculation of radioimmunoassay data by spline functions was improved with regard to immediate availability of quality parameters. The existing programm was adapted to a computer Siemens 4004/151. Methods are reported for obtaining an exactly reproducible and objective smoothing of spline functions. The additional modifications enable even unskilled technicians to use the programm.", "PMID": 438734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4218", "title": "An automated microassay for blood ammonia.", "content": "A microassay for blood ammonia has been developed. After dilution, blood is dialyzed by a continuous flow procedure, and the ammonium ions in the dialysate are assayed colorimetrically by the hypochlorite-phenol Berthelot reaction. Concentrations from 1 to 400 mumol/l NH+4 can be measured in a 50 mul whole blood sample. Using slight modifications, concentrations up to 800 mumol/l NH+4 can be determined. The precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the method have been studied. In man, the usual values (mean +/- 2 SD) found are 27.4 +/- 10.2 mumol/l NH+4 in arterial blood, 20.9 +/- 9.8 mumol/l in venous blood. The usual values in rats and mice are very close to those given for man.", "contents": "An automated microassay for blood ammonia. A microassay for blood ammonia has been developed. After dilution, blood is dialyzed by a continuous flow procedure, and the ammonium ions in the dialysate are assayed colorimetrically by the hypochlorite-phenol Berthelot reaction. Concentrations from 1 to 400 mumol/l NH+4 can be measured in a 50 mul whole blood sample. Using slight modifications, concentrations up to 800 mumol/l NH+4 can be determined. The precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the method have been studied. In man, the usual values (mean +/- 2 SD) found are 27.4 +/- 10.2 mumol/l NH+4 in arterial blood, 20.9 +/- 9.8 mumol/l in venous blood. The usual values in rats and mice are very close to those given for man.", "PMID": 438735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4219", "title": "[Quantitative analysis of L-hydroxyproline in human biological material by gas-chromatography (author's transl)].", "content": "Quantitative amino acid analysis by gas chromatography was applied to the determination of 4-hydroxy-L-proline in biological material. After addition of a known amount of allo-4-hydroxy-D-proline, quantitative analysis of 4-hydroxy-L-proline can be performed by gas chromatographic separation of the amino acid enantiomers; since the standard and sample have identical chemical behaviour, they respond identically during derivatization. The accuracy, reproducibility, and sample requirement of this procedure are more advantageous than those of hitherto existing methods. This study is also an example of the application of chiral stationary phases, which permit the simultaneous separation of amino acids and amino acid enantiomers.", "contents": "[Quantitative analysis of L-hydroxyproline in human biological material by gas-chromatography (author's transl)]. Quantitative amino acid analysis by gas chromatography was applied to the determination of 4-hydroxy-L-proline in biological material. After addition of a known amount of allo-4-hydroxy-D-proline, quantitative analysis of 4-hydroxy-L-proline can be performed by gas chromatographic separation of the amino acid enantiomers; since the standard and sample have identical chemical behaviour, they respond identically during derivatization. The accuracy, reproducibility, and sample requirement of this procedure are more advantageous than those of hitherto existing methods. This study is also an example of the application of chiral stationary phases, which permit the simultaneous separation of amino acids and amino acid enantiomers.", "PMID": 438736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4220", "title": "[Investigations on the utilization of D-gluconate and D-glucono-delta-lactone in the metabolism of the normal and alloxan diabetic rat (author's transl)].", "content": "Radioactivity was measured in the blood of normal and alloxan diabetic rats, after the oral administration of [U-14C]gluconate and [U-14C]glucono-delta-lactone, respectively. Radioactivity was also measured in the intestinal contents and feces 5 h after ingestion of the radioactive materials, It was concluded that the lactone is better absorbed from the intestine than the gluconate anion. According to this enhanced membrane permeation and the higher concentration reached in blood, the space of distribution of the lactone is larger than that of gluconate (50 and 41% of body weight, respectively); a higher retention in tissues and a greater loss in urine was also observed after administration of the lactone. Incorporation into liver glycogen is also higher from the lactone than from gluconate after oral administration, particularly in diabetic animals. The initial deficit in the oxidation of gluconate compared to that of the lactone, caused by a lag period of 7 and 4 h, respectively, is completely compensated during the following 8-9 h. The oxidative turnover of gluconolactone and of gluconate is significantly enhanced in diabetic animals. The better utilization in diabetic metabolism is in part explainable by a rise of glycolytic intermediates in the liver, which are decreased in starvation and diabetes. The limiting step of gluconate metabolism is the initial phosphorylation. Possibilities are discufor the dietetic use of gluconic acid in the form of an apolar derivative (lactone, ester).", "contents": "[Investigations on the utilization of D-gluconate and D-glucono-delta-lactone in the metabolism of the normal and alloxan diabetic rat (author's transl)]. Radioactivity was measured in the blood of normal and alloxan diabetic rats, after the oral administration of [U-14C]gluconate and [U-14C]glucono-delta-lactone, respectively. Radioactivity was also measured in the intestinal contents and feces 5 h after ingestion of the radioactive materials, It was concluded that the lactone is better absorbed from the intestine than the gluconate anion. According to this enhanced membrane permeation and the higher concentration reached in blood, the space of distribution of the lactone is larger than that of gluconate (50 and 41% of body weight, respectively); a higher retention in tissues and a greater loss in urine was also observed after administration of the lactone. Incorporation into liver glycogen is also higher from the lactone than from gluconate after oral administration, particularly in diabetic animals. The initial deficit in the oxidation of gluconate compared to that of the lactone, caused by a lag period of 7 and 4 h, respectively, is completely compensated during the following 8-9 h. The oxidative turnover of gluconolactone and of gluconate is significantly enhanced in diabetic animals. The better utilization in diabetic metabolism is in part explainable by a rise of glycolytic intermediates in the liver, which are decreased in starvation and diabetes. The limiting step of gluconate metabolism is the initial phosphorylation. Possibilities are discufor the dietetic use of gluconic acid in the form of an apolar derivative (lactone, ester).", "PMID": 438737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4221", "title": "Effects of an educational feedback strategy on physician utilization of thyroid function panels.", "content": "Physician overutilization of clinical laboratory tests has been well documented, but previous attempts aimed at changing this behavior have met with limited success. An educational feedback strategy was used to try to change physician behavior in ordering thyroid function panels (TFPs) in the Duke-Watts Family Medicine group practice. The rate of TFP ordering significantly decreased for three months following the intervention but rose to the preintervention level within six months. Senior residents appeared to be more responsive to the educational feedback than junior residents. Results obtained in this and other studies suggest that other factors compete with educational approaches in motivating physician behavior, and these override rational decision making.", "contents": "Effects of an educational feedback strategy on physician utilization of thyroid function panels. Physician overutilization of clinical laboratory tests has been well documented, but previous attempts aimed at changing this behavior have met with limited success. An educational feedback strategy was used to try to change physician behavior in ordering thyroid function panels (TFPs) in the Duke-Watts Family Medicine group practice. The rate of TFP ordering significantly decreased for three months following the intervention but rose to the preintervention level within six months. Senior residents appeared to be more responsive to the educational feedback than junior residents. Results obtained in this and other studies suggest that other factors compete with educational approaches in motivating physician behavior, and these override rational decision making.", "PMID": 438739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4222", "title": "Some non-random views of statistical significance.", "content": "Although research in family medicine is growing rapidly, few family physicians have had experience or training in statistical methods. Statistical significance and P values are often misunderstood and frequently misapplied. \"Significance\" is arbitrary; the actual P value is of greater interest than a significant/not significant statement; P values do not measure the strength of an association; statistical significance is not equivalent to \"actual\" significance; P values are largely dependent on sample size; and data \"dredging\" is guaranteed to yield spurious results. Competent statistical consultation, careful study planning, and recognition of statistical pitfalls are important to anyone who does research, and knowledge of these areas is useful as well to anyone reading the medical literature.", "contents": "Some non-random views of statistical significance. Although research in family medicine is growing rapidly, few family physicians have had experience or training in statistical methods. Statistical significance and P values are often misunderstood and frequently misapplied. \"Significance\" is arbitrary; the actual P value is of greater interest than a significant/not significant statement; P values do not measure the strength of an association; statistical significance is not equivalent to \"actual\" significance; P values are largely dependent on sample size; and data \"dredging\" is guaranteed to yield spurious results. Competent statistical consultation, careful study planning, and recognition of statistical pitfalls are important to anyone who does research, and knowledge of these areas is useful as well to anyone reading the medical literature.", "PMID": 438740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4223", "title": "Inhospital family practice--a one year summary.", "content": "A review of 914 medical records of patients hospitalized at the Polyclinic Medical Center of Harrisburg by members of the Department of Family Practice is presented. The age distribution of these patients was essentially bimodal, with peak numbers in the less than one year and greater than 65 years age groups. Physicians and physician groups which perform obstetrics rendered hospital care to a larger number of infants than those not performing obstetrics. The family physicians gave hospital care for a large number of different conditions. The family physicians frequently consulted other medical specialists, especially cardiologists and general surgeons. The consultation rate varied considerably among the physicians studied.", "contents": "Inhospital family practice--a one year summary. A review of 914 medical records of patients hospitalized at the Polyclinic Medical Center of Harrisburg by members of the Department of Family Practice is presented. The age distribution of these patients was essentially bimodal, with peak numbers in the less than one year and greater than 65 years age groups. Physicians and physician groups which perform obstetrics rendered hospital care to a larger number of infants than those not performing obstetrics. The family physicians gave hospital care for a large number of different conditions. The family physicians frequently consulted other medical specialists, especially cardiologists and general surgeons. The consultation rate varied considerably among the physicians studied.", "PMID": 438741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4224", "title": "An analysis of returning patients in family practice.", "content": "Morbidity records from eight practices participating for three years in the Virginia Family Practice Data System are analyzed with respect to two mutually exclusive groups of patients: those who return from one year to the next and those who do not return. Initially, substantial interpractice variation in patient return rates is presented, and age and sex characteristics of these patients are examined. The data indicate that approximately 40 percent of patients visiting the practice in one year return in the next, 25 percent return in each of two subsequent years, and only 12 percent return two years hence. Returning patients are found to be significantly older and more likely to be female than non-returning patients. These two groups of patients are then compared in terms of recorded morbidity and workload rates. Specific categories of problems, such as Diseases of the Circulatory System, are associated with returning patients. This paper thus presents empirical evidence which supports common assumptions concerning patients and problems seen in family practice.", "contents": "An analysis of returning patients in family practice. Morbidity records from eight practices participating for three years in the Virginia Family Practice Data System are analyzed with respect to two mutually exclusive groups of patients: those who return from one year to the next and those who do not return. Initially, substantial interpractice variation in patient return rates is presented, and age and sex characteristics of these patients are examined. The data indicate that approximately 40 percent of patients visiting the practice in one year return in the next, 25 percent return in each of two subsequent years, and only 12 percent return two years hence. Returning patients are found to be significantly older and more likely to be female than non-returning patients. These two groups of patients are then compared in terms of recorded morbidity and workload rates. Specific categories of problems, such as Diseases of the Circulatory System, are associated with returning patients. This paper thus presents empirical evidence which supports common assumptions concerning patients and problems seen in family practice.", "PMID": 438742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4225", "title": "Consultation and referral in a Vermont family practice: a study of utilization, specialty distribution, and outcome.", "content": "Referral patterns and outcome were studied in an ambulatory family practice facility. One hundred eight referrals were initiated and studied during a period when 7,220 patients were seen--a 1.5 percent referral rate. Satisfactory outcomes occurred in 67 of the cases. Changing patterns of health care delivery may require new definitions of the consulation-referral process.", "contents": "Consultation and referral in a Vermont family practice: a study of utilization, specialty distribution, and outcome. Referral patterns and outcome were studied in an ambulatory family practice facility. One hundred eight referrals were initiated and studied during a period when 7,220 patients were seen--a 1.5 percent referral rate. Satisfactory outcomes occurred in 67 of the cases. Changing patterns of health care delivery may require new definitions of the consulation-referral process.", "PMID": 438743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4226", "title": "Suprapubic bladder needle aspiration in infants and children.", "content": "Suprapubic needle aspiration of the bladder represents an excellent alternative to urethral catheterization to document bladder bacteriuria. Specific indications include documentation of bacteriuria in infants, in uncircumcised male children, in myelodysplastic children, and in children with abnormal genitalia.", "contents": "Suprapubic bladder needle aspiration in infants and children. Suprapubic needle aspiration of the bladder represents an excellent alternative to urethral catheterization to document bladder bacteriuria. Specific indications include documentation of bacteriuria in infants, in uncircumcised male children, in myelodysplastic children, and in children with abnormal genitalia.", "PMID": 438744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4227", "title": "Heparin and warfarin: use of anticoagulants in the prevention and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.", "content": "The physician frequently encounters the problems of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Recently, a number of studies have been published which are of considerable help in the management of these disorders. It has been shown that in many cases, low-dose heparin is effective in the prevention of both venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. However, once venous thrombosis has already occurred, it is necessary to use full-dose heparin, preferably by the continuous intravenous route, with maintenance of the partial thromboplastin time (PTT) at 1 1/2 times the control at all times. Although monitoring the PTT may not prevent hemorrhage, it will help prevent further thrombosis. Heparin is generally continued for seven to ten days. During this time warfarin is generally begun, and it is important to continue the patient on warfarin for five to seven days while the patient is receiving intravenous heparin therapy. After stopping heparin, oral anticoagulation with warfarin should be continued for six weeks. Then, in the absence of a previous history of venous thromboembolism or a known predisposing condition, it is safe to abruptly discontinue anticoagulation in most patients.", "contents": "Heparin and warfarin: use of anticoagulants in the prevention and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. The physician frequently encounters the problems of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Recently, a number of studies have been published which are of considerable help in the management of these disorders. It has been shown that in many cases, low-dose heparin is effective in the prevention of both venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. However, once venous thrombosis has already occurred, it is necessary to use full-dose heparin, preferably by the continuous intravenous route, with maintenance of the partial thromboplastin time (PTT) at 1 1/2 times the control at all times. Although monitoring the PTT may not prevent hemorrhage, it will help prevent further thrombosis. Heparin is generally continued for seven to ten days. During this time warfarin is generally begun, and it is important to continue the patient on warfarin for five to seven days while the patient is receiving intravenous heparin therapy. After stopping heparin, oral anticoagulation with warfarin should be continued for six weeks. Then, in the absence of a previous history of venous thromboembolism or a known predisposing condition, it is safe to abruptly discontinue anticoagulation in most patients.", "PMID": 438753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4228", "title": "A multidisciplinary audit of diabetes mellitus.", "content": "A multidisciplinary audit evaluating the quality of care of patients with a primary diagnosis of diabetes mellitus was performed at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The audit served to evaluate the treatment and care of diabetic patients, in both the inpatient and ambulatory care settings, and also to identify interaction problems involving patient care among physicians, nurses, dieticians, and social workers. Analysis of the data indicated that each discipline rendered adequate patient care. As other published audits have also indicated, this multidisciplinary audit revealed that documentation of services is frequently lacking and that communication between the involved disciplines was less than desirable. The audit disclosed a need to educate the hospital staff (medical and nursing) as to the role and function of the Social Services Department. As a result of this audit, definite measures have been instituted in each participating department in an attempt to further upgrade the quality of medical care and improve interdepartmental communication and cooperation.", "contents": "A multidisciplinary audit of diabetes mellitus. A multidisciplinary audit evaluating the quality of care of patients with a primary diagnosis of diabetes mellitus was performed at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The audit served to evaluate the treatment and care of diabetic patients, in both the inpatient and ambulatory care settings, and also to identify interaction problems involving patient care among physicians, nurses, dieticians, and social workers. Analysis of the data indicated that each discipline rendered adequate patient care. As other published audits have also indicated, this multidisciplinary audit revealed that documentation of services is frequently lacking and that communication between the involved disciplines was less than desirable. The audit disclosed a need to educate the hospital staff (medical and nursing) as to the role and function of the Social Services Department. As a result of this audit, definite measures have been instituted in each participating department in an attempt to further upgrade the quality of medical care and improve interdepartmental communication and cooperation.", "PMID": 438754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4229", "title": "Management of grief in the hypochondriac.", "content": "This paper illustrates the presentation and management of a grief reaction in a chronic hypochondriacal patient seen in a family medicine office. The manifestations of grief in the hypochondriacal patient are influenced by the unique characteristics of the chronic, somatic complainer in whom the grief reaction appeared as an intensification of the chronic complaints. The treatment of the grief reaction in these patients should take into account the techniques for managing the hypochondriacal patient.", "contents": "Management of grief in the hypochondriac. This paper illustrates the presentation and management of a grief reaction in a chronic hypochondriacal patient seen in a family medicine office. The manifestations of grief in the hypochondriacal patient are influenced by the unique characteristics of the chronic, somatic complainer in whom the grief reaction appeared as an intensification of the chronic complaints. The treatment of the grief reaction in these patients should take into account the techniques for managing the hypochondriacal patient.", "PMID": 438755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4230", "title": "Community medicine in the training of family physicians.", "content": "Family practice residency programs are encouraged to include community medicine training in their curriculum, but there is little agreement as to what community medicine is or what would constitute appropriate training. Community medicine is most commonly defined as a discipline concerned with the identification and solution of health care problems of communities or other defined populations. The inclusion of training experiences in the identification and solution of health care problems of communities has two basic advantages for family practice residency programs: it fosters a contextual approach in the care of individual patients and it builds knowledge and skills for those who will work with communities in future practices. An example of curricular content is included. A survey was conducted in order to determine what residency programs teach in the field of community medicine. The results show that few of the responding programs include the areas which most clearly relate to community medicine. It is hoped that the report of these results, the rationale presented for including community medicine in the training of family physicians, and the suggested outline of curricular content will further encourage and assist family practice residency programs to incorporate such training in their curricula.", "contents": "Community medicine in the training of family physicians. Family practice residency programs are encouraged to include community medicine training in their curriculum, but there is little agreement as to what community medicine is or what would constitute appropriate training. Community medicine is most commonly defined as a discipline concerned with the identification and solution of health care problems of communities or other defined populations. The inclusion of training experiences in the identification and solution of health care problems of communities has two basic advantages for family practice residency programs: it fosters a contextual approach in the care of individual patients and it builds knowledge and skills for those who will work with communities in future practices. An example of curricular content is included. A survey was conducted in order to determine what residency programs teach in the field of community medicine. The results show that few of the responding programs include the areas which most clearly relate to community medicine. It is hoped that the report of these results, the rationale presented for including community medicine in the training of family physicians, and the suggested outline of curricular content will further encourage and assist family practice residency programs to incorporate such training in their curricula.", "PMID": 438756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4231", "title": "Continuity of care in a family practice residency program.", "content": "Continuity of care, one of the basic characteristics of family medicine, was studied over a 12-month period in a family practice residency program. Continuity was measured in three contact areas; office hours, after hours, and on the inpatient service. The intensity of continuity was defined at three levels, from encounters with the personal physician to those with physicians on other medical teams. Continuity was further assessed in relation to family encounters. Third year residents averaged 83 percent continuity with their individual patients and 70 percent with their assigned families. Residents from other years were noted to have lower levels of continuity. Similar figures were noted for family practice inpatients. Continuity of care in private practice occurs in about 80 percent of patient encounters and it seems reasonable and feasible to expect residency training programs to come close to this figure.", "contents": "Continuity of care in a family practice residency program. Continuity of care, one of the basic characteristics of family medicine, was studied over a 12-month period in a family practice residency program. Continuity was measured in three contact areas; office hours, after hours, and on the inpatient service. The intensity of continuity was defined at three levels, from encounters with the personal physician to those with physicians on other medical teams. Continuity was further assessed in relation to family encounters. Third year residents averaged 83 percent continuity with their individual patients and 70 percent with their assigned families. Residents from other years were noted to have lower levels of continuity. Similar figures were noted for family practice inpatients. Continuity of care in private practice occurs in about 80 percent of patient encounters and it seems reasonable and feasible to expect residency training programs to come close to this figure.", "PMID": 438757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4232", "title": "Glucose effect on respiration: possible mechanism for capacitation in guinea pig spermatozoa.", "content": "Guinea pig sperm respiration was determined in minimal capacitation medium (MCM) with different energy sources. The ZO2 observed for spermatozoa suspended in media containing pyruvate and lactate was 35.7 +/- 5.9, pyruvate alone, 27.9 +/- 3.8 and D-glucose alone 3.4 +/- 1.1. When D-glucose was added to spermatozoa rapidly respiring in media containing pyruvate as the only exogenous energy source, an immediate suppression in respiration was observed. Further reduction was caused by continued addition of D-glucose. Fructose and mannose also produced a suppression in respiratory rate. However, lactose, fucose, sucrose, L-glucose, and galactose did not alter the respiratory rate. The suppression of respiration by metabolizable sugars is paralleled by a suppression of acrosome reaction in guinea pig spermatozoa. The possibility that suppression of respiration is the mechanism for retardation of capacitation and the subsequent acrosome reaction by D-glucose and other metabolizable sugars is suggested.", "contents": "Glucose effect on respiration: possible mechanism for capacitation in guinea pig spermatozoa. Guinea pig sperm respiration was determined in minimal capacitation medium (MCM) with different energy sources. The ZO2 observed for spermatozoa suspended in media containing pyruvate and lactate was 35.7 +/- 5.9, pyruvate alone, 27.9 +/- 3.8 and D-glucose alone 3.4 +/- 1.1. When D-glucose was added to spermatozoa rapidly respiring in media containing pyruvate as the only exogenous energy source, an immediate suppression in respiration was observed. Further reduction was caused by continued addition of D-glucose. Fructose and mannose also produced a suppression in respiratory rate. However, lactose, fucose, sucrose, L-glucose, and galactose did not alter the respiratory rate. The suppression of respiration by metabolizable sugars is paralleled by a suppression of acrosome reaction in guinea pig spermatozoa. The possibility that suppression of respiration is the mechanism for retardation of capacitation and the subsequent acrosome reaction by D-glucose and other metabolizable sugars is suggested.", "PMID": 438758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4233", "title": "Investigations into the degree of cell mixing that occurs between the 8-cell stage and the blastocyst stage of mouse development.", "content": "This study was designed to assess the degree of cell mixing that occurs during the early development of the mouse embryo, and thus provide information which is important in relation to the current theories of differentiation. Previous studies of this nature have involved either chimeric composites, or have only followed a very limited number of cells in the embryo. Here the products of one of the 4-cell stage blastomeres have been labeled with tritiated thymidine, at a level which allows their descendants to be identified three or four cell divisions later, and recombined with the remaining blastomeres of the same embryo. After fixing and sectioning of the embryos at the blastocyst stage the locations of the labelled cells have been analyzed to assess the degree of clumping that they display. A significant tendency for the products of this one 4-cell stage blastomere to be confined to a single area in the blastocyst is demonstrated. This indicates that there is little marked cell movement during the observation period. The relevance of these results to current knowledge of blastocyst development is discussed.", "contents": "Investigations into the degree of cell mixing that occurs between the 8-cell stage and the blastocyst stage of mouse development. This study was designed to assess the degree of cell mixing that occurs during the early development of the mouse embryo, and thus provide information which is important in relation to the current theories of differentiation. Previous studies of this nature have involved either chimeric composites, or have only followed a very limited number of cells in the embryo. Here the products of one of the 4-cell stage blastomeres have been labeled with tritiated thymidine, at a level which allows their descendants to be identified three or four cell divisions later, and recombined with the remaining blastomeres of the same embryo. After fixing and sectioning of the embryos at the blastocyst stage the locations of the labelled cells have been analyzed to assess the degree of clumping that they display. A significant tendency for the products of this one 4-cell stage blastomere to be confined to a single area in the blastocyst is demonstrated. This indicates that there is little marked cell movement during the observation period. The relevance of these results to current knowledge of blastocyst development is discussed.", "PMID": 438759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4234", "title": "Lactate dehydrogenase C4 in male sex accessory glands of normal mice and in testes of sex-reversed mice.", "content": "Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) C4 activity was observed in testis extracts of sex-reversed mice (Sxr) and in male sex accessory gland (seminal vesicle and prostate) extracts from C3H/He and C57BL/Go mice. These results reflect either (1) the presence of low concentrations of germinal cells in these tissues; or (2) the synthesis of LDH-C4 by somatic cells in Sxr testes and normal male sex accessory glands.", "contents": "Lactate dehydrogenase C4 in male sex accessory glands of normal mice and in testes of sex-reversed mice. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) C4 activity was observed in testis extracts of sex-reversed mice (Sxr) and in male sex accessory gland (seminal vesicle and prostate) extracts from C3H/He and C57BL/Go mice. These results reflect either (1) the presence of low concentrations of germinal cells in these tissues; or (2) the synthesis of LDH-C4 by somatic cells in Sxr testes and normal male sex accessory glands.", "PMID": 438760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4235", "title": "Dynamics of 9-aminoacridine block of sodium channels in squid axons.", "content": "The interactions of 9-aminoacridine with ionic channels were studied in internally perfused squid axons. The kinetics of block of Na channels with 9-aminoacridine varies depending on the voltage-clamp pulses and the state of gating machinery of Na channels. In an axon with intact h gate, the block exhibits frequency- and voltage-dependent characteristics. However, in the pronase-perfused axon, the frequency-dependent block disappears, whereas the voltage-dependent block remains unchanged. A time-dependent decrease in Na currents indicative of direct block of Na channel by drug molecule follows a single exponential function with a time constant of 2.0 +/- 0.18 and 1.0 +/- 0.19 ms (at 10 degrees C and 80 m V) for 30 and 100 microM 9-aminoacridine, respectively. A steady-state block can be achieved during a single 8-ms depolarizing pulse when the h gate has been removed. The block in the h-gate intact axon can be achieved only with multiple conditioning pulses. The voltage-dependent block suggests that 9-aminoacridine binds to a site located halfway across the membrane with a dissociation constant of 62 microM at 0 m V. 9-Aminoacridine also blocks K channels, and the block is time- and voltage-dependent.", "contents": "Dynamics of 9-aminoacridine block of sodium channels in squid axons. The interactions of 9-aminoacridine with ionic channels were studied in internally perfused squid axons. The kinetics of block of Na channels with 9-aminoacridine varies depending on the voltage-clamp pulses and the state of gating machinery of Na channels. In an axon with intact h gate, the block exhibits frequency- and voltage-dependent characteristics. However, in the pronase-perfused axon, the frequency-dependent block disappears, whereas the voltage-dependent block remains unchanged. A time-dependent decrease in Na currents indicative of direct block of Na channel by drug molecule follows a single exponential function with a time constant of 2.0 +/- 0.18 and 1.0 +/- 0.19 ms (at 10 degrees C and 80 m V) for 30 and 100 microM 9-aminoacridine, respectively. A steady-state block can be achieved during a single 8-ms depolarizing pulse when the h gate has been removed. The block in the h-gate intact axon can be achieved only with multiple conditioning pulses. The voltage-dependent block suggests that 9-aminoacridine binds to a site located halfway across the membrane with a dissociation constant of 62 microM at 0 m V. 9-Aminoacridine also blocks K channels, and the block is time- and voltage-dependent.", "PMID": 438763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4236", "title": "A common origin of voltage noise and generator potentials in statocyst hair cells.", "content": "Voltage noise, generator potentials, and hair movements in the Hermissenda statocyst were analyzed. Motile hairs on the cyst's luminal surface moved as rods through +/- 10 degrees Hz when free and at 7 Hz when loaded with the weight of the statoconia (at 120 degrees C). For hair cells oriented opposite to a centrifugal force vector, rotation caused depolarization and increase of voltage noise variance. The depolarizing generator potential and the increase in voltage noise variance were similarly reduced by perfusion with zero external sodium or chloral hydrate. Cooling, perfusion with zero external sodium or chloral hydrate reduced the movement frequencies of the hairs but increased their range of motion. The same treatments reduced voltage noise variance and increased input resistance of the hair cell membrane. The results indicate that voltage noise and hair cell generator potential have a common origin: exertion of force on statocyst hairs by the weight of statoconia. The collision of statoconia with the motile hairs, not the hairs' bending, produces most of the voltage noise.", "contents": "A common origin of voltage noise and generator potentials in statocyst hair cells. Voltage noise, generator potentials, and hair movements in the Hermissenda statocyst were analyzed. Motile hairs on the cyst's luminal surface moved as rods through +/- 10 degrees Hz when free and at 7 Hz when loaded with the weight of the statoconia (at 120 degrees C). For hair cells oriented opposite to a centrifugal force vector, rotation caused depolarization and increase of voltage noise variance. The depolarizing generator potential and the increase in voltage noise variance were similarly reduced by perfusion with zero external sodium or chloral hydrate. Cooling, perfusion with zero external sodium or chloral hydrate reduced the movement frequencies of the hairs but increased their range of motion. The same treatments reduced voltage noise variance and increased input resistance of the hair cell membrane. The results indicate that voltage noise and hair cell generator potential have a common origin: exertion of force on statocyst hairs by the weight of statoconia. The collision of statoconia with the motile hairs, not the hairs' bending, produces most of the voltage noise.", "PMID": 438764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4237", "title": "Heterogeneity in dog red blood cells: sodium and potassium transport.", "content": "After incubation in isotonic KCl, dog red blood cells can be separated by centrifugation into subgroups which assume different cell volumes and possess different transport characteristics. Those red cells which swell in isotonic KCl exhibit a higher permeability to K and possess a greater volume dependence for transport of K than those red cells which shrink. A high Na permeability characterizes cells which shrink in isotonic KCl and these cells exhibit a larger volume-dependent Na flux than those red cells which swell. These two subgroups of red cells do not seem to represent two cell populations of different age. The results indicate that the population of normal cells is evidently heterogeneous in that the volume-dependent changes in Na and K permeability are distributed between differnt cell types rather than representing a single cell type which reciprocally changes its selectivity to Na and K.", "contents": "Heterogeneity in dog red blood cells: sodium and potassium transport. After incubation in isotonic KCl, dog red blood cells can be separated by centrifugation into subgroups which assume different cell volumes and possess different transport characteristics. Those red cells which swell in isotonic KCl exhibit a higher permeability to K and possess a greater volume dependence for transport of K than those red cells which shrink. A high Na permeability characterizes cells which shrink in isotonic KCl and these cells exhibit a larger volume-dependent Na flux than those red cells which swell. These two subgroups of red cells do not seem to represent two cell populations of different age. The results indicate that the population of normal cells is evidently heterogeneous in that the volume-dependent changes in Na and K permeability are distributed between differnt cell types rather than representing a single cell type which reciprocally changes its selectivity to Na and K.", "PMID": 438765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4238", "title": "Ionic mechanisms of two types of on-center bipolar cells in the carp retina. I. The responses to central illumination.", "content": "Properties of the depolarizing response of on-center bipolar cells to a light spot stimulus were studied in the carp retina. On-center bipolar cells were classified into two types, cone-dominant and rod-dominant, according to their major input from cones and rods. Cone-dominant bipolar cells responded to spectral light with the maximum amplitude near 625 nm, suggesting major input from red cones. The response was accompanied by a resistance increase and showed a reversal potential at -63 +/- 21 mV when the membrane was hyperpolarized by current. The results suggest that the photoresponse of cone-dominant cells is due to a decrease of gK and/or gCl, membrane conductances to potassium and chloride, respectively. Rod-dominant bipolar cells responded to spectral light with the maximum amplitude near 525 nm under scotopic conditions and near 625 nm under photopic conditions, providing evidence that they receive input from rods and red cones. In the scoptopic condition their response was accompanied by a resistance decrease and showed a reversal potential at 29 +/- 13 mV, whereas in the photopic condition the response in most of them was accompanied by a resistance increase, at least in their part and showed a reversal at -53 +/- 11 mV. The results suggest that the photoresponse activated by rod input is due to an increase in gNa. In the mesopic condition rod-dominant cells showed complex electrical membrane properties as the result of electric interaction between the above two differnt ionic mechanisms activated by rod and cone inputs.", "contents": "Ionic mechanisms of two types of on-center bipolar cells in the carp retina. I. The responses to central illumination. Properties of the depolarizing response of on-center bipolar cells to a light spot stimulus were studied in the carp retina. On-center bipolar cells were classified into two types, cone-dominant and rod-dominant, according to their major input from cones and rods. Cone-dominant bipolar cells responded to spectral light with the maximum amplitude near 625 nm, suggesting major input from red cones. The response was accompanied by a resistance increase and showed a reversal potential at -63 +/- 21 mV when the membrane was hyperpolarized by current. The results suggest that the photoresponse of cone-dominant cells is due to a decrease of gK and/or gCl, membrane conductances to potassium and chloride, respectively. Rod-dominant bipolar cells responded to spectral light with the maximum amplitude near 525 nm under scotopic conditions and near 625 nm under photopic conditions, providing evidence that they receive input from rods and red cones. In the scoptopic condition their response was accompanied by a resistance decrease and showed a reversal potential at 29 +/- 13 mV, whereas in the photopic condition the response in most of them was accompanied by a resistance increase, at least in their part and showed a reversal at -53 +/- 11 mV. The results suggest that the photoresponse activated by rod input is due to an increase in gNa. In the mesopic condition rod-dominant cells showed complex electrical membrane properties as the result of electric interaction between the above two differnt ionic mechanisms activated by rod and cone inputs.", "PMID": 438766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4239", "title": "Calcium influx in internally dialyzed squid giant axons.", "content": "A method has been developed to measure Ca influx in internally dialyzed squid axons. This was achieved by controlling the dialyzed segment of the axon exposed to the external radioactive medium. The capacity of EGTA to buffer all the Ca entering the fiber was explored by changing the free EGTA at constant [Ca++]i. At a free [EGTA]i greater than 200 microM, the measured resting Ca influx and the expected increment in Ca entry during electrical stimulation were independent of the axoplasmic free [EGTA]. To avoid Ca uptake by the mitochondrial system, cyanide, oligomycin, and FCCP were included in the perfusate. Axons dialyzed with a standard medium containing: [ATP] = 2 mM, [Ca++]i = 0.06 microM, [Ca++]o = 10 mM, [Na+]i = 70 mM, and [Na+]o = 465 mM, gave a mean Ca influx of 0.14 +/- 0.012 pmol.cm-2.s-1 (n = 12. Removal of ATP drops the Ca influx to 0.085 +/- 0.007 pmol.cm-2.s-1 (n = 12). Ca influx increased to 0.35 pmol.cm-2,s-1 when Nao was removed. The increment was completely abolished by removing Nai+ and (or) ATP from the dialysis medium. At nominal zero [Ca++]i, no Nai-dependent Ca influx was observed. In the presence of ATP and Nai [Ca++]i activates the Ca influx along a sigmoid curve without saturation up to 1 microM [Ca++]i. Removal of Nai+ always reduced the Ca influx to a value similar to that observed in the absence of [Ca++]i (0.087 +/- 0.008 pmol.cm-2.s-1; n = 11). Under the above standard conditions, 50-60% of the total Ca influx was found to be insensitive to Nai+, Cai++, and ATP, sensitive to membrane potential, and partially inhibited by external Co++.", "contents": "Calcium influx in internally dialyzed squid giant axons. A method has been developed to measure Ca influx in internally dialyzed squid axons. This was achieved by controlling the dialyzed segment of the axon exposed to the external radioactive medium. The capacity of EGTA to buffer all the Ca entering the fiber was explored by changing the free EGTA at constant [Ca++]i. At a free [EGTA]i greater than 200 microM, the measured resting Ca influx and the expected increment in Ca entry during electrical stimulation were independent of the axoplasmic free [EGTA]. To avoid Ca uptake by the mitochondrial system, cyanide, oligomycin, and FCCP were included in the perfusate. Axons dialyzed with a standard medium containing: [ATP] = 2 mM, [Ca++]i = 0.06 microM, [Ca++]o = 10 mM, [Na+]i = 70 mM, and [Na+]o = 465 mM, gave a mean Ca influx of 0.14 +/- 0.012 pmol.cm-2.s-1 (n = 12. Removal of ATP drops the Ca influx to 0.085 +/- 0.007 pmol.cm-2.s-1 (n = 12). Ca influx increased to 0.35 pmol.cm-2,s-1 when Nao was removed. The increment was completely abolished by removing Nai+ and (or) ATP from the dialysis medium. At nominal zero [Ca++]i, no Nai-dependent Ca influx was observed. In the presence of ATP and Nai [Ca++]i activates the Ca influx along a sigmoid curve without saturation up to 1 microM [Ca++]i. Removal of Nai+ always reduced the Ca influx to a value similar to that observed in the absence of [Ca++]i (0.087 +/- 0.008 pmol.cm-2.s-1; n = 11). Under the above standard conditions, 50-60% of the total Ca influx was found to be insensitive to Nai+, Cai++, and ATP, sensitive to membrane potential, and partially inhibited by external Co++.", "PMID": 438767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4240", "title": "Influence of chloride, potassium, and tetraethylammonium on the early outward current of sheep cardiac Purkinje fibers.", "content": "In voltage clamp studies of cardiac Purkinje fibers, a large early outward current is consistently observed during depolarizations to voltages more positive than -20 mV. After the outward peak of the current, the total membrane current declines slowly. Dudel et al. (1967. Pfluegers Arch. Eur. J. Physiol. 294:197--212) reduced the extracellular chloride concentration and found that the outward peak and the decline of the current were abolished. They concluded that the total membrane current at these voltages was largely determined by a time- and voltage-dependent change in the membrane chloride conductance. We reinvestigated the chloride sensitivity of this current, taking care to minimize possible sources of error. When the extracellular chloride concentration was reduced to 8.6% of control, the principal effect was a 20% decrease in the peak amplitude of the outward current. This implies that the membrane chloride conductance is not the major determinant of the total current at these voltages. The reversal potential of current tails obtained after a short conditioning depolarization was not changed by alterations in the extracellular chloride or potassium concentrations. We suspect that the tail currents contain both inward and outward components, and that the apparent reversal potential of the net tail current largely reflects the kinetics of the outward component, so that this experiment does not rule out potassium as a possible charge carrier. The possibility that potassium carries much of the early outward current was further investigated using tetraethylammonium, which blocks potassium currents in nerve and skeletal muscle. This drug substantially reduced the early outward current, which suggests that much of the early outward current is carried by potassium ions.", "contents": "Influence of chloride, potassium, and tetraethylammonium on the early outward current of sheep cardiac Purkinje fibers. In voltage clamp studies of cardiac Purkinje fibers, a large early outward current is consistently observed during depolarizations to voltages more positive than -20 mV. After the outward peak of the current, the total membrane current declines slowly. Dudel et al. (1967. Pfluegers Arch. Eur. J. Physiol. 294:197--212) reduced the extracellular chloride concentration and found that the outward peak and the decline of the current were abolished. They concluded that the total membrane current at these voltages was largely determined by a time- and voltage-dependent change in the membrane chloride conductance. We reinvestigated the chloride sensitivity of this current, taking care to minimize possible sources of error. When the extracellular chloride concentration was reduced to 8.6% of control, the principal effect was a 20% decrease in the peak amplitude of the outward current. This implies that the membrane chloride conductance is not the major determinant of the total current at these voltages. The reversal potential of current tails obtained after a short conditioning depolarization was not changed by alterations in the extracellular chloride or potassium concentrations. We suspect that the tail currents contain both inward and outward components, and that the apparent reversal potential of the net tail current largely reflects the kinetics of the outward component, so that this experiment does not rule out potassium as a possible charge carrier. The possibility that potassium carries much of the early outward current was further investigated using tetraethylammonium, which blocks potassium currents in nerve and skeletal muscle. This drug substantially reduced the early outward current, which suggests that much of the early outward current is carried by potassium ions.", "PMID": 438768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4241", "title": "Voltage clamp analysis of embryonic heart cell aggregates.", "content": "The double-microelectrode voltage clamp technique was applied to small spheroidal aggregates of heart cells from 7-d chick embryos. A third intracellular electrode was sometimes used to monitor spatial homogeneity. On average, aggregates were found to deviate from isopotentiality by 12% during the first 3--5 ms of large depolarizing voltage steps, when inward current was maximal, and by less than 3% thereafter. Two components of inward current were recorded: (a) a fast, transient current associated with the rapid upstroke of the action potential, which was abolished by tetrodotoxin (TTX); and (b) a slower inward current related to the plateau, which was not affected by TTX but was blocked by D600. The magnitudes, kinetics, and voltage dependence of these two inward currents and a delayed outward current were similar to those reported for adult cardiac preparations. From a holding potential of -60 mV, the peak fast component at the point of maximal activation (-20 mV) was -185 microA/cm2. This value was about seven times greater than the maximal slow component which peaked at 0 mV. The ratio of rate constants for the decay of the two currents was between 10:1 and 30:1.", "contents": "Voltage clamp analysis of embryonic heart cell aggregates. The double-microelectrode voltage clamp technique was applied to small spheroidal aggregates of heart cells from 7-d chick embryos. A third intracellular electrode was sometimes used to monitor spatial homogeneity. On average, aggregates were found to deviate from isopotentiality by 12% during the first 3--5 ms of large depolarizing voltage steps, when inward current was maximal, and by less than 3% thereafter. Two components of inward current were recorded: (a) a fast, transient current associated with the rapid upstroke of the action potential, which was abolished by tetrodotoxin (TTX); and (b) a slower inward current related to the plateau, which was not affected by TTX but was blocked by D600. The magnitudes, kinetics, and voltage dependence of these two inward currents and a delayed outward current were similar to those reported for adult cardiac preparations. From a holding potential of -60 mV, the peak fast component at the point of maximal activation (-20 mV) was -185 microA/cm2. This value was about seven times greater than the maximal slow component which peaked at 0 mV. The ratio of rate constants for the decay of the two currents was between 10:1 and 30:1.", "PMID": 438769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4242", "title": "The effects of acidosis and bicarbonate on action potential repolarization in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers.", "content": "Studies were performed on canine cardiac Purkinje fibers to evaluate the effects of acidosis and bicarbonate (HCO3) on action potential repolarization. Extracellular pH (pHe) was reduced from 7.4 to 6.8 by increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration from 4 to 15% in a HCO3-buffered solution or by NaOH titration in a Hepes-buffered solution. Both types of acidosis produced a slowing of the rate of terminal repolarization (i.e., period of repolarization starting at about -60 mV and ending at the maximum diastolic potential) with an attendant increase in action potential duration of 10--20 ms. This was accompanied by a reduction in the maximum diastolic potential of 2--8 mV. In contrast, if the same pH change was made by keeping CO2 concentration constant and lowering extracellular HCO3 from 23.7 to 6.0 mM, in addition to the slowing of terminal repolarization, the plateau was markedly prolonged resulting in an additional 50- to 80-ms increase in action potential duration. If pHe was held constant at 7.4 and HCO3 reduced from 23.7 mM to 0 (Hepes-buffered solution), the changes in repolarization were nearly identical to those seen in 6.0 mM HCO3 except that terminal repolarization was unchanged. This response was unaltered by doubling the concentration of Hepes. Reducing HCO3 to 12.0 mM produced changes in repolarization of about one-half the magnitude of those in 6.0 mM HCO3. These findings suggest that in Purkinje fibers, HCO3 either acts as a current that slows repolarization or modulates the ionic currents responsible for repolarization.", "contents": "The effects of acidosis and bicarbonate on action potential repolarization in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers. Studies were performed on canine cardiac Purkinje fibers to evaluate the effects of acidosis and bicarbonate (HCO3) on action potential repolarization. Extracellular pH (pHe) was reduced from 7.4 to 6.8 by increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration from 4 to 15% in a HCO3-buffered solution or by NaOH titration in a Hepes-buffered solution. Both types of acidosis produced a slowing of the rate of terminal repolarization (i.e., period of repolarization starting at about -60 mV and ending at the maximum diastolic potential) with an attendant increase in action potential duration of 10--20 ms. This was accompanied by a reduction in the maximum diastolic potential of 2--8 mV. In contrast, if the same pH change was made by keeping CO2 concentration constant and lowering extracellular HCO3 from 23.7 to 6.0 mM, in addition to the slowing of terminal repolarization, the plateau was markedly prolonged resulting in an additional 50- to 80-ms increase in action potential duration. If pHe was held constant at 7.4 and HCO3 reduced from 23.7 mM to 0 (Hepes-buffered solution), the changes in repolarization were nearly identical to those seen in 6.0 mM HCO3 except that terminal repolarization was unchanged. This response was unaltered by doubling the concentration of Hepes. Reducing HCO3 to 12.0 mM produced changes in repolarization of about one-half the magnitude of those in 6.0 mM HCO3. These findings suggest that in Purkinje fibers, HCO3 either acts as a current that slows repolarization or modulates the ionic currents responsible for repolarization.", "PMID": 438770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4243", "title": "The initiation of excitation and light adaptation in Limulus ventral photoreceptors.", "content": "Two types of experiments indicate that light adaptation and excitation are initiated by the same, rather than different, populations of visual pigment. (a) The criterion action spectra of light adaptation and excitation are the same. (b) Increment-threshold curves were measured with a voltage-clamp technique under conditions of high and low concentration of plasma membrane rhodopsin (Rhpm). SD, the dark-adapted sensitivity, and 1/I2, the inverse of the background irradiance that desensitized by 0.3 log units, underwent the same fractional change when the rhodopsin concentration was changed. Both quantities appear to be linearly related to Rhpm. Reversible reductions in Rhpm were achieved by orange irradiation during a brief increase of extracellular pH from 7.8 to 10. This procedure would be unlikely to produce similar concentration changes in a hypothetical intracellular pigment because the concurrent change in intracellular pH, measured using the dye, phenol red, was only 0.45 pH units. It is thus unlikely that an intracellular pigment initiates light adaptation. On the assumption that light adaptation is mediated by a light-induced release of Ca++ from an intracellular store. the results reported here imply that an intracellular transmitter is needed to couple Rhpm to the intracellular store.", "contents": "The initiation of excitation and light adaptation in Limulus ventral photoreceptors. Two types of experiments indicate that light adaptation and excitation are initiated by the same, rather than different, populations of visual pigment. (a) The criterion action spectra of light adaptation and excitation are the same. (b) Increment-threshold curves were measured with a voltage-clamp technique under conditions of high and low concentration of plasma membrane rhodopsin (Rhpm). SD, the dark-adapted sensitivity, and 1/I2, the inverse of the background irradiance that desensitized by 0.3 log units, underwent the same fractional change when the rhodopsin concentration was changed. Both quantities appear to be linearly related to Rhpm. Reversible reductions in Rhpm were achieved by orange irradiation during a brief increase of extracellular pH from 7.8 to 10. This procedure would be unlikely to produce similar concentration changes in a hypothetical intracellular pigment because the concurrent change in intracellular pH, measured using the dye, phenol red, was only 0.45 pH units. It is thus unlikely that an intracellular pigment initiates light adaptation. On the assumption that light adaptation is mediated by a light-induced release of Ca++ from an intracellular store. the results reported here imply that an intracellular transmitter is needed to couple Rhpm to the intracellular store.", "PMID": 438771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4244", "title": "Synaptic inputs to the ganglion cells in the tiger salamander retina.", "content": "The postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) that form the ganglion cell light response were isolated by polarizing the cell membrane with extrinsic currents while stimulating at either the center or surround of the cell's receptive field. The time-course and receptive field properties of the PSPs were correlated with those of the bipolar and amacrine cells. The tiger salamander retina contains four main types of ganglion cell: \"on\" center, \"off\" center, \"on-off\", and a \"hybrid\" cell that responds transiently to center, but sustainedly, to surround illumination. The results lead to these inferences. The on-ganglion cell receives excitatory synpatic input from the on bipolars and that synapse is \"silent\" in the dark. The off-ganglion cell receives excitatory synaptic input from the off bipolars with this synapse tonically active in the dark. The on-off and hybrid ganglion cells receive a transient excitatory input with narrow receptive field, not simply correlated with the activity of any presynaptic cell. All cell types receive a broad field transient inhibitory input, which apparently originates in the transient amacrine cells. Thus, most, but not all, ganglion cell responses can be explained in terms of synaptic inputs from bipolar and amacrine cells, integrated at the ganglion cell membrane.", "contents": "Synaptic inputs to the ganglion cells in the tiger salamander retina. The postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) that form the ganglion cell light response were isolated by polarizing the cell membrane with extrinsic currents while stimulating at either the center or surround of the cell's receptive field. The time-course and receptive field properties of the PSPs were correlated with those of the bipolar and amacrine cells. The tiger salamander retina contains four main types of ganglion cell: \"on\" center, \"off\" center, \"on-off\", and a \"hybrid\" cell that responds transiently to center, but sustainedly, to surround illumination. The results lead to these inferences. The on-ganglion cell receives excitatory synpatic input from the on bipolars and that synapse is \"silent\" in the dark. The off-ganglion cell receives excitatory synaptic input from the off bipolars with this synapse tonically active in the dark. The on-off and hybrid ganglion cells receive a transient excitatory input with narrow receptive field, not simply correlated with the activity of any presynaptic cell. All cell types receive a broad field transient inhibitory input, which apparently originates in the transient amacrine cells. Thus, most, but not all, ganglion cell responses can be explained in terms of synaptic inputs from bipolar and amacrine cells, integrated at the ganglion cell membrane.", "PMID": 438772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4245", "title": "Fluid transport and the dimensions of cells and interspaces of living Necturus gallbladder.", "content": "The volume of the cells and lateral intercellular spaces were measured in living Necturus gallbladder epithelium. Under control conditions, the volume of the lateral spaces was 9% of the cell volume. Replacement of mucosal NaCl by sucrose or tetramethylammonium chloride (TMACl) caused intercellular spaces to collapse. During mucosal NaCl replacement, cell volume decreased to 79% of its control value. When NaCl was reintroduced into the mucosal bath, the intercellular spaces reopened and the cells returned to control volume. The NaCl active transport rate, calculated from the rate of cell volume decrease, was 266 pM/cm2.s, close to the observed rate of transepithelial salt transport. It was calculated from the decrease in cell volume that all of the intracellular NaCl was transported out of the cell during removal of mucosal NaCl. The flux of salt across the apical membrane, calculated from the rate of cell volume increase upon reintroducing mucosal NaCl, was 209 pM/cm2.s, in good agreement with estimates by other methods. The electrical resistance of the tight junctions was estimated to be 83.9% of the total tissue resistance in control conditions, suggesting that the lateral intercellular spaces normally offer only a small resistance to electrolyte movement.", "contents": "Fluid transport and the dimensions of cells and interspaces of living Necturus gallbladder. The volume of the cells and lateral intercellular spaces were measured in living Necturus gallbladder epithelium. Under control conditions, the volume of the lateral spaces was 9% of the cell volume. Replacement of mucosal NaCl by sucrose or tetramethylammonium chloride (TMACl) caused intercellular spaces to collapse. During mucosal NaCl replacement, cell volume decreased to 79% of its control value. When NaCl was reintroduced into the mucosal bath, the intercellular spaces reopened and the cells returned to control volume. The NaCl active transport rate, calculated from the rate of cell volume decrease, was 266 pM/cm2.s, close to the observed rate of transepithelial salt transport. It was calculated from the decrease in cell volume that all of the intracellular NaCl was transported out of the cell during removal of mucosal NaCl. The flux of salt across the apical membrane, calculated from the rate of cell volume increase upon reintroducing mucosal NaCl, was 209 pM/cm2.s, in good agreement with estimates by other methods. The electrical resistance of the tight junctions was estimated to be 83.9% of the total tissue resistance in control conditions, suggesting that the lateral intercellular spaces normally offer only a small resistance to electrolyte movement.", "PMID": 438773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4246", "title": "Calcium content and net fluxes in squid giant axons.", "content": "Axons freshly dissected from living specimens of the tropical squid Dorytheutis plei have a calcium content of 68 mumol/kg of axoplasm. Fibers stimulated at 100 impulses/s in 100 mM Ca seawater increase their Ca content by 150 mumol/kg.min; axons placed in 3 Ca (choline) seawater increase their Ca content by 12 mumol/kg.min. Axons loaded with 0.2--1.5 mmol Ca/kg of axoplasm extruded Ca with a half time of 15--30 min when allowed to recover in 3 Ca (Na) seawater. The half time for recovery of loaded axons poisoned with carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP) and iodoacetic acid (IAA) is about the same as control axons. Axons placed in 40 mM Na choline seawater (to reduce chemical gradient for Na) or in 40 mM Na, 410 mM K seawater to reduce the electrochemical gradient for Na to near zero either fail to lose previously loaded Ca or gain further Ca.", "contents": "Calcium content and net fluxes in squid giant axons. Axons freshly dissected from living specimens of the tropical squid Dorytheutis plei have a calcium content of 68 mumol/kg of axoplasm. Fibers stimulated at 100 impulses/s in 100 mM Ca seawater increase their Ca content by 150 mumol/kg.min; axons placed in 3 Ca (choline) seawater increase their Ca content by 12 mumol/kg.min. Axons loaded with 0.2--1.5 mmol Ca/kg of axoplasm extruded Ca with a half time of 15--30 min when allowed to recover in 3 Ca (Na) seawater. The half time for recovery of loaded axons poisoned with carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP) and iodoacetic acid (IAA) is about the same as control axons. Axons placed in 40 mM Na choline seawater (to reduce chemical gradient for Na) or in 40 mM Na, 410 mM K seawater to reduce the electrochemical gradient for Na to near zero either fail to lose previously loaded Ca or gain further Ca.", "PMID": 438774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4247", "title": "Properties of chloride transport in barnacle muscle fibers.", "content": "Unidirectional chloride-36 fluxes were measured in internally dialyzed barnacle giant muscle fibers. About 50--60% of the Cl efflux was irreversibly blocked by the amino-group reactive agent, 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (SITS), when it was applied either intra- or extracellularly. Similarly, Cl influx was also blocked by SITS. No significant effect on [Cl]i of SITS was noted in intact muscle fibers. However, the rate of net Cl efflux from muscle fibers which were Cl-loaded by overnight storage at 6 degrees C could be slowed by SITS treatment. Two classes of anions were defined based upon their effects on Cl efflux. Methanesulfonate and nitrate inhibited Cl efflux either when they replaced external chloride or when they were added to a constant external chloride concentration. The other group of anions (propionate, formate) stimulated both Cl efflux and influx and such stimulation could be blocked by SITS. Propionate influx was not nearly as large as the stimulated Cl efflux and was unaffected by SITS. Neither the effects of SITS nor those of the anion substitutes could be simply accounted for by changes in the membrane resting potential or conductance. These results suggest a mediated transport system for chloride across the barnacle sarcolemma.", "contents": "Properties of chloride transport in barnacle muscle fibers. Unidirectional chloride-36 fluxes were measured in internally dialyzed barnacle giant muscle fibers. About 50--60% of the Cl efflux was irreversibly blocked by the amino-group reactive agent, 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (SITS), when it was applied either intra- or extracellularly. Similarly, Cl influx was also blocked by SITS. No significant effect on [Cl]i of SITS was noted in intact muscle fibers. However, the rate of net Cl efflux from muscle fibers which were Cl-loaded by overnight storage at 6 degrees C could be slowed by SITS treatment. Two classes of anions were defined based upon their effects on Cl efflux. Methanesulfonate and nitrate inhibited Cl efflux either when they replaced external chloride or when they were added to a constant external chloride concentration. The other group of anions (propionate, formate) stimulated both Cl efflux and influx and such stimulation could be blocked by SITS. Propionate influx was not nearly as large as the stimulated Cl efflux and was unaffected by SITS. Neither the effects of SITS nor those of the anion substitutes could be simply accounted for by changes in the membrane resting potential or conductance. These results suggest a mediated transport system for chloride across the barnacle sarcolemma.", "PMID": 438775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4248", "title": "The nature of arginine auxotrophy in cutaneous populations of staphylococci.", "content": "L-Arginine was required for growth by a high percentage of strains of Staphylococcus species that were niche-specific and/or host-specific, but was usually not required for growth by species showing a wide host range. Growth stimulation patterns with arginine intermediates indicated that most of the auxotrophic strains had blocks in an early step(s) in arginine biosynthesis. These strains were designated phenotypically as Arg(CHG) according to the Salmonella typhimurium classification scheme. Staphylococcus simulans strains appeared to be either ArgA or Arg I. The ArgI strains of S. simulans and S. capitis had moderate to high ornithine carbamoyltransferase (EC 2.1.3.3) activities and therefore could not be designated as argI mutants. ArgI strains in other species had no or very low ornithine carbamoyltransferase activities. All of the natural Staphylococcus auxotrophs tested grew in the presence of L-citrulline and had moderate to high argininosuccinase (EC 4.3.2.1) activities. Arginine auxotrophs of species with a wide host range were often capable of reverting to arginine-independent or complete prototrophic growth, whereas auxotrophs of species that tended to be niche-specific and/or host-specific were incapable of reversion to arginine-independence, even in the presence of various mutagens. A relationship between the nature of arginine auxotrophy and habitat is suggested.", "contents": "The nature of arginine auxotrophy in cutaneous populations of staphylococci. L-Arginine was required for growth by a high percentage of strains of Staphylococcus species that were niche-specific and/or host-specific, but was usually not required for growth by species showing a wide host range. Growth stimulation patterns with arginine intermediates indicated that most of the auxotrophic strains had blocks in an early step(s) in arginine biosynthesis. These strains were designated phenotypically as Arg(CHG) according to the Salmonella typhimurium classification scheme. Staphylococcus simulans strains appeared to be either ArgA or Arg I. The ArgI strains of S. simulans and S. capitis had moderate to high ornithine carbamoyltransferase (EC 2.1.3.3) activities and therefore could not be designated as argI mutants. ArgI strains in other species had no or very low ornithine carbamoyltransferase activities. All of the natural Staphylococcus auxotrophs tested grew in the presence of L-citrulline and had moderate to high argininosuccinase (EC 4.3.2.1) activities. Arginine auxotrophs of species with a wide host range were often capable of reverting to arginine-independent or complete prototrophic growth, whereas auxotrophs of species that tended to be niche-specific and/or host-specific were incapable of reversion to arginine-independence, even in the presence of various mutagens. A relationship between the nature of arginine auxotrophy and habitat is suggested.", "PMID": 438776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4249", "title": "Simultaneous and successive cognitive processes in the Mueller-Lyer illusion.", "content": "Performance in the Mueller-Lyer Illusion was analyzed for whole and partial presentations of the figure. S s were 120 third grade boys and girls. Four experimental groups were formed with the use of the human abilities model of simultaneous and successive syntheses, and the two types of presentation were given to each group. Results indicated that illusory effects in both presentations of the figure were significantly reduced by ability in simultaneous synthesis. Performance in the two presentations was also affected by successive ability, but these effects were in opposite directions for the two forms of presentation. The results did not support Piaget's theory of perceptual development, although they were consistent with the theory of simultaneous and successive syntheses. Suggestions are made for the design of future research.", "contents": "Simultaneous and successive cognitive processes in the Mueller-Lyer illusion. Performance in the Mueller-Lyer Illusion was analyzed for whole and partial presentations of the figure. S s were 120 third grade boys and girls. Four experimental groups were formed with the use of the human abilities model of simultaneous and successive syntheses, and the two types of presentation were given to each group. Results indicated that illusory effects in both presentations of the figure were significantly reduced by ability in simultaneous synthesis. Performance in the two presentations was also affected by successive ability, but these effects were in opposite directions for the two forms of presentation. The results did not support Piaget's theory of perceptual development, although they were consistent with the theory of simultaneous and successive syntheses. Suggestions are made for the design of future research.", "PMID": 438779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4250", "title": "Effects of alcohol on moral functioning in male social drinkers.", "content": "The present study investigated the effect of alcohol consumption on both moral reasoning and moral values, cognitive variables which are likely to mediate moral behavior. Fifty-five male social drinkers (Mean age = 19.75 years) participated in a one-way pretest-posttest design incorporating two experimental (alcohol) and three control groups. Results showed that alcohol did not affect moral stage reasoning on the Defining Issues Test. However, the endorsement of meaningless items was significantly, but differentially, affected by the alcohol doses administered. No group differences were found in regard to moral values. These findings are related to previous research on alcohol and cognitive processes.", "contents": "Effects of alcohol on moral functioning in male social drinkers. The present study investigated the effect of alcohol consumption on both moral reasoning and moral values, cognitive variables which are likely to mediate moral behavior. Fifty-five male social drinkers (Mean age = 19.75 years) participated in a one-way pretest-posttest design incorporating two experimental (alcohol) and three control groups. Results showed that alcohol did not affect moral stage reasoning on the Defining Issues Test. However, the endorsement of meaningless items was significantly, but differentially, affected by the alcohol doses administered. No group differences were found in regard to moral values. These findings are related to previous research on alcohol and cognitive processes.", "PMID": 438780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4251", "title": "Predictive validity of the Rorschach Prognostic Rating Scale with schizophrenic patients.", "content": "The prognostic validity of the Rorschach Rating Scale was assessed with schizophrenic patients. Through the use of a standardized structured interview and a diagnostic system for schizophrenia based on the use of discriminant function analysis with nonpathognomonic symptom combinations, a reliable and valid system was used to establish the criterion diagnosis. Outcome criteria used included a variety of measures of schizophrenic thought disorder. The results help to establish the practical utility of the PRS empirically with schizophrenic patients by demonstrating efficient prediction when other relevant demographic and nontest variables have been controlled. Furthermore, the concept of ego strength from which the PRS was developed does not appear to be too global a characteristic when the area for change is specifically delineated.", "contents": "Predictive validity of the Rorschach Prognostic Rating Scale with schizophrenic patients. The prognostic validity of the Rorschach Rating Scale was assessed with schizophrenic patients. Through the use of a standardized structured interview and a diagnostic system for schizophrenia based on the use of discriminant function analysis with nonpathognomonic symptom combinations, a reliable and valid system was used to establish the criterion diagnosis. Outcome criteria used included a variety of measures of schizophrenic thought disorder. The results help to establish the practical utility of the PRS empirically with schizophrenic patients by demonstrating efficient prediction when other relevant demographic and nontest variables have been controlled. Furthermore, the concept of ego strength from which the PRS was developed does not appear to be too global a characteristic when the area for change is specifically delineated.", "PMID": 438781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4252", "title": "Is outcome for schizophrenia better in nonindustrial societies? The case of Sri Lanka.", "content": "We now have evidence that the prognosis for schizophrenia is much better in nonindustrial than in industrial societies. This paper reports on a 5-year follow-up of schizophrenic patients living in the peasant society of Sri Lanka and shows that social adjustment and clinical state of a sample of first admission schizophrenic patients examined at the end of 5 years are remarkably good. Further, the 5-year outcome for these patients is consistent with WHO's samples followed in Nigeria and India, for example, and consistently different from outcome for schizophrenic patients followed in industrial societies such as Denmark, U.S.A., U.K., and U.S.S.R. Further, we have shown for the Sri Lanka schizophrenics that good outcome cannot be explained by artifacts of sampling or diagnostic methods, by type of treatment, or by the family's willingness to tolerate deviance. Instead, to explain cultural differences in prognosis, we propose a theoretical alternative to the medical model of disease, social labeling theory, that attributes good prognosis to cultural factors such as the traditional system of beliefs, structure of the treatment system, and family norms. In modern industrial societies, expectations and beliefs about mental illness and the operation of the treatment system serve largely to alienate schizophrenic patients from their normal roles and thus to prolong illness. In contrast, beliefs and practices in nonindustrial societies encourage short term illness and quick return to normality. Cultural differences in prognosis, then, may be the result of culturally based self-fulfilling prophecies.", "contents": "Is outcome for schizophrenia better in nonindustrial societies? The case of Sri Lanka. We now have evidence that the prognosis for schizophrenia is much better in nonindustrial than in industrial societies. This paper reports on a 5-year follow-up of schizophrenic patients living in the peasant society of Sri Lanka and shows that social adjustment and clinical state of a sample of first admission schizophrenic patients examined at the end of 5 years are remarkably good. Further, the 5-year outcome for these patients is consistent with WHO's samples followed in Nigeria and India, for example, and consistently different from outcome for schizophrenic patients followed in industrial societies such as Denmark, U.S.A., U.K., and U.S.S.R. Further, we have shown for the Sri Lanka schizophrenics that good outcome cannot be explained by artifacts of sampling or diagnostic methods, by type of treatment, or by the family's willingness to tolerate deviance. Instead, to explain cultural differences in prognosis, we propose a theoretical alternative to the medical model of disease, social labeling theory, that attributes good prognosis to cultural factors such as the traditional system of beliefs, structure of the treatment system, and family norms. In modern industrial societies, expectations and beliefs about mental illness and the operation of the treatment system serve largely to alienate schizophrenic patients from their normal roles and thus to prolong illness. In contrast, beliefs and practices in nonindustrial societies encourage short term illness and quick return to normality. Cultural differences in prognosis, then, may be the result of culturally based self-fulfilling prophecies.", "PMID": 438782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4253", "title": "Neurological soft signs and psychopathology. I. Findings in schizophrenia.", "content": "Systematic, standardized evaluations for neurological soft signs were conducted on five psychiatric populations and a control group of medical inpatients. Soft signs were grouped according to their probable clinical association with cortical lobe dysfunction. Preliminary results indicated that schizophrenics, compared to other groups, showed significant increased presence of soft signs presumably related to frontal and parietal lobe dysfunction.", "contents": "Neurological soft signs and psychopathology. I. Findings in schizophrenia. Systematic, standardized evaluations for neurological soft signs were conducted on five psychiatric populations and a control group of medical inpatients. Soft signs were grouped according to their probable clinical association with cortical lobe dysfunction. Preliminary results indicated that schizophrenics, compared to other groups, showed significant increased presence of soft signs presumably related to frontal and parietal lobe dysfunction.", "PMID": 438784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4254", "title": "Quantification of the human orienting response to another human: lesioned and psychiatric patients compared to normals.", "content": "A method for eliciting, controlling, and quantifying the alpha suppression response to a human \"real-person\" stimulus is presented. Improved control is achieved by a feedback from the EEG response to the presentation of the stimulus. Quantification is comprehensive in that initial response and subsequent habituation for both latency and duration are described. Patients who had suffered a focal lesion but who had recovered sufficiently to travel from one hospital to another by taxi were compared with hospitalized psychiatric patients and normal volunteers. Lesioned patients showed less EEG response to visual stimuli than did the other groups, even with an evocative, real-person stimulus. The differences among the three groups were most evident at the onset of stimulation and less so after habituation had occurred.", "contents": "Quantification of the human orienting response to another human: lesioned and psychiatric patients compared to normals. A method for eliciting, controlling, and quantifying the alpha suppression response to a human \"real-person\" stimulus is presented. Improved control is achieved by a feedback from the EEG response to the presentation of the stimulus. Quantification is comprehensive in that initial response and subsequent habituation for both latency and duration are described. Patients who had suffered a focal lesion but who had recovered sufficiently to travel from one hospital to another by taxi were compared with hospitalized psychiatric patients and normal volunteers. Lesioned patients showed less EEG response to visual stimuli than did the other groups, even with an evocative, real-person stimulus. The differences among the three groups were most evident at the onset of stimulation and less so after habituation had occurred.", "PMID": 438785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4255", "title": "The diagnosis of Briquet's syndrome in a male population: the Veterans Administration revisited.", "content": "Fifty psychiatric inpatients at a VA Hospital felt to be at high risk for the development of somatic complaints were surveyed for Briquet's syndrome. When criteria for the syndrome were strictly applied, no men were found with the disorder. If the criteria were minimally relaxed, two patients did have a sufficient number of symptoms in multiple areas to qualify for the diagnosis. However, they had alternative clinical and research diagnoses and none of the personality characteristics noted in previous populations of women surveyed for Briquet's syndrome.", "contents": "The diagnosis of Briquet's syndrome in a male population: the Veterans Administration revisited. Fifty psychiatric inpatients at a VA Hospital felt to be at high risk for the development of somatic complaints were surveyed for Briquet's syndrome. When criteria for the syndrome were strictly applied, no men were found with the disorder. If the criteria were minimally relaxed, two patients did have a sufficient number of symptoms in multiple areas to qualify for the diagnosis. However, they had alternative clinical and research diagnoses and none of the personality characteristics noted in previous populations of women surveyed for Briquet's syndrome.", "PMID": 438786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4256", "title": "Comparison of the clinical effectiveness of \"short\" versus \"long\" stay psychiatric hospitalization. IV. Predictors of differential benefit.", "content": "One hundred seventy-three patients were randomly assigned to LT (long term, unlimited length of stay, mean 179 days) vs. ST (short term, 90-day limit) psychiatric hospitalization. Three-year follow-up results showed few between-group differences, although LT patients tended to be rehospitalized more and had superior relative ratings of psychopathology. Demographic and clinical data did not predict differential benefit from LT or ST hospitalization. Diagnosis did not generally predict differential benefit either, except that clinically diagnosed personality disorders, given LT as opposed to ST hospitalization, had poorer role functioning and less psychiatric treatments after discharge. Patients with a history of drug abuse did worse if given LT hospitalization in terms of role functioning and rehospitalization. Overall, this study agrees with other relevant studies in indicating that hospitalization should be kept as short as feasible.", "contents": "Comparison of the clinical effectiveness of \"short\" versus \"long\" stay psychiatric hospitalization. IV. Predictors of differential benefit. One hundred seventy-three patients were randomly assigned to LT (long term, unlimited length of stay, mean 179 days) vs. ST (short term, 90-day limit) psychiatric hospitalization. Three-year follow-up results showed few between-group differences, although LT patients tended to be rehospitalized more and had superior relative ratings of psychopathology. Demographic and clinical data did not predict differential benefit from LT or ST hospitalization. Diagnosis did not generally predict differential benefit either, except that clinically diagnosed personality disorders, given LT as opposed to ST hospitalization, had poorer role functioning and less psychiatric treatments after discharge. Patients with a history of drug abuse did worse if given LT hospitalization in terms of role functioning and rehospitalization. Overall, this study agrees with other relevant studies in indicating that hospitalization should be kept as short as feasible.", "PMID": 438787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4257", "title": "Lithium toxicity with hypothyroidism as a possible determinant.", "content": "A case of a woman with severe lithium toxicity and hypothyroidism with persistent hyponatremia and hypokalemia is presented. The mechanisms of the development of lithium toxicity by alterations in fluid and sodium metabolism, including those induced by lithium itself, are reviewed. The possibility that hypothyroidism may have been a significant determinant in the development of this case of lithium toxicity is considered and discussed. This is of special interest given that lithium can induce hypothyroidism. In addition, the safe reinstitution of lithium prophylaxis in this woman can be reported.", "contents": "Lithium toxicity with hypothyroidism as a possible determinant. A case of a woman with severe lithium toxicity and hypothyroidism with persistent hyponatremia and hypokalemia is presented. The mechanisms of the development of lithium toxicity by alterations in fluid and sodium metabolism, including those induced by lithium itself, are reviewed. The possibility that hypothyroidism may have been a significant determinant in the development of this case of lithium toxicity is considered and discussed. This is of special interest given that lithium can induce hypothyroidism. In addition, the safe reinstitution of lithium prophylaxis in this woman can be reported.", "PMID": 438788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4258", "title": "Frequency of depressive disorder in patients entering home hemodialysis.", "content": "Fifty-eight patients were systematically interviewed at the time of their entry into a home hemodialysis training program. The social, demographic, medical, and psychological characteristics of the sample are described. On interview, 13 (22%) of the 58 patients were found to be experiencing rigorously defined depressive disorder. The importance of further study regarding the incidence of depressive illness in similar groups of patients and the need for further research in defining adequate therapy for these patients are emphasized.", "contents": "Frequency of depressive disorder in patients entering home hemodialysis. Fifty-eight patients were systematically interviewed at the time of their entry into a home hemodialysis training program. The social, demographic, medical, and psychological characteristics of the sample are described. On interview, 13 (22%) of the 58 patients were found to be experiencing rigorously defined depressive disorder. The importance of further study regarding the incidence of depressive illness in similar groups of patients and the need for further research in defining adequate therapy for these patients are emphasized.", "PMID": 438789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4259", "title": "Cerebral hemispheric lateralization of cognitive deficits due to alcoholism.", "content": "Twenty chronic alcoholics and a group of matched control subjects were tested on verbal and visuospatial memory tasks in order to test directly the hypothesis that alcoholism disturbs cognitive functions subserved by the right hemisphere more than those subserved by the left hemisphere. The results provide some support for the hypothesis and indicate that information may be lost by pooling together test results from alcoholics which come from a mixture of verbal and nonverbal tasks.", "contents": "Cerebral hemispheric lateralization of cognitive deficits due to alcoholism. Twenty chronic alcoholics and a group of matched control subjects were tested on verbal and visuospatial memory tasks in order to test directly the hypothesis that alcoholism disturbs cognitive functions subserved by the right hemisphere more than those subserved by the left hemisphere. The results provide some support for the hypothesis and indicate that information may be lost by pooling together test results from alcoholics which come from a mixture of verbal and nonverbal tasks.", "PMID": 438791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4260", "title": "Hypochondriasis and paranoia: similar delusional systems in an institutionalized geriatric population.", "content": "Hypochondriasis and paranoia are common psychopathologies of aging. The former may be secondary to depression or organic brain syndrome, whereas the latter may be secondary to sensory impairment or organic brain syndrome. Paranoid schizophrenia, with delusions of grandeur, is rare in later life. The authors classified 273 institutionalized geriatric patients by means of staff ratings into categories such as lucid and alert, confused, hypochondriacal, paranoid, etc. Among confused patients there was a correlation of .45 (p less than .001) between hypochondriasis and paranoia. Even among nonconfused patients, there was a slight positive correlation. The authors concluded that geriatric paranoia and hypochrondriasis have similar structure (delusion) and functions (safeguarding self-esteem and manipulating others). An interpersonal perspective can also provide guidelines for when to treat these conditions.", "contents": "Hypochondriasis and paranoia: similar delusional systems in an institutionalized geriatric population. Hypochondriasis and paranoia are common psychopathologies of aging. The former may be secondary to depression or organic brain syndrome, whereas the latter may be secondary to sensory impairment or organic brain syndrome. Paranoid schizophrenia, with delusions of grandeur, is rare in later life. The authors classified 273 institutionalized geriatric patients by means of staff ratings into categories such as lucid and alert, confused, hypochondriacal, paranoid, etc. Among confused patients there was a correlation of .45 (p less than .001) between hypochondriasis and paranoia. Even among nonconfused patients, there was a slight positive correlation. The authors concluded that geriatric paranoia and hypochrondriasis have similar structure (delusion) and functions (safeguarding self-esteem and manipulating others). An interpersonal perspective can also provide guidelines for when to treat these conditions.", "PMID": 438793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4261", "title": "Presentation of the steroid psychoses.", "content": "This study suggests that patients receiving daily doses of 40 mg of prednisone or its equivalent, are at greater risk for developing steroid psychosis. Psychotic reactions were twice as likely to occur during the first 5 days of treatment as subsequently. Premorbid personality, history of previous psychiatric disorder, and a history of previous steroid psychosis did not clearly increase the patient's risk of developing psychotic reaction during any given course of therapy. Steroid psychoses present as spectrum psychoses with symptoms ranging from affective through schizophreniform to those of an organic brain syndrome. No characteristic stable presentation was observed in these 14 cases reported here. The most prominent symptom constellation to appear some time during the course of the illness consisted of emotional lability, anxiety, distractibility, pressured speech, sensory flooding, insomnia, depression, perplexity, agitation, auditory and visual hallucinations, intermittent memory impairment, mutism, disturbances of body image, delusions, apathy, and hypomania. Phenothiazines administered in average daily doses of 212 mg produced excellent response in all patients studied. Of particular note was the fact that tricyclic antidepressants produced an exacerbation or worsening of the clinical state in all patients to whom they were administered.", "contents": "Presentation of the steroid psychoses. This study suggests that patients receiving daily doses of 40 mg of prednisone or its equivalent, are at greater risk for developing steroid psychosis. Psychotic reactions were twice as likely to occur during the first 5 days of treatment as subsequently. Premorbid personality, history of previous psychiatric disorder, and a history of previous steroid psychosis did not clearly increase the patient's risk of developing psychotic reaction during any given course of therapy. Steroid psychoses present as spectrum psychoses with symptoms ranging from affective through schizophreniform to those of an organic brain syndrome. No characteristic stable presentation was observed in these 14 cases reported here. The most prominent symptom constellation to appear some time during the course of the illness consisted of emotional lability, anxiety, distractibility, pressured speech, sensory flooding, insomnia, depression, perplexity, agitation, auditory and visual hallucinations, intermittent memory impairment, mutism, disturbances of body image, delusions, apathy, and hypomania. Phenothiazines administered in average daily doses of 212 mg produced excellent response in all patients studied. Of particular note was the fact that tricyclic antidepressants produced an exacerbation or worsening of the clinical state in all patients to whom they were administered.", "PMID": 438794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4262", "title": "Subclinical depression and performance expectations, evaluations of performance, and actual performance.", "content": "Four hundred sixty-nine female and 311 male college students were administered a depression scale, an analogies test, and questions related to expectations and evaluations of performance. As predicted, significant negative correlations were found between subclinical depression and expectations and evaluations of performance. A significant negative correlation between depression and actual performance was apparent for females only. However, this correlation was much weaker than similar correlations previously reported for college student populations. It was concluded that low performance expectations constitute one dimension of subclinical depression. This suggests that Beck's theory of clinical depression, which holds that negative self-perceptions and other cognitions are importantly involved in depression, may be useful in understanding normal mood variation. The findings also suggest that some similarities exist between clinically and subclinically depressed groups in that both groups are reported to hold low performance expectations, but display minimal performance deficits.", "contents": "Subclinical depression and performance expectations, evaluations of performance, and actual performance. Four hundred sixty-nine female and 311 male college students were administered a depression scale, an analogies test, and questions related to expectations and evaluations of performance. As predicted, significant negative correlations were found between subclinical depression and expectations and evaluations of performance. A significant negative correlation between depression and actual performance was apparent for females only. However, this correlation was much weaker than similar correlations previously reported for college student populations. It was concluded that low performance expectations constitute one dimension of subclinical depression. This suggests that Beck's theory of clinical depression, which holds that negative self-perceptions and other cognitions are importantly involved in depression, may be useful in understanding normal mood variation. The findings also suggest that some similarities exist between clinically and subclinically depressed groups in that both groups are reported to hold low performance expectations, but display minimal performance deficits.", "PMID": 438795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4263", "title": "The frequency and identification of false positive conversion reactions.", "content": "The frequency with which conversion reaction diagnoses are inappropriately applied to persons with physical diseases was estimated in a sample of medical hospital patients diagnosed hysteric. This was accomplished by ratings based on file information available at the time of diagnosis and at a 10-year follow\"up, and a count of patients whose \"conversion\" symptoms were later diagnosed as physical illnesses. The estimated false positive rate was 25%. The symptoms most characteristic of the false positives were degenerative diseases and structural failures affecting the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. An effort to identify psychological parameters capable of separating true conversion reactions from false positives with a variety of behavioral symptoms and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory scores was not productive.", "contents": "The frequency and identification of false positive conversion reactions. The frequency with which conversion reaction diagnoses are inappropriately applied to persons with physical diseases was estimated in a sample of medical hospital patients diagnosed hysteric. This was accomplished by ratings based on file information available at the time of diagnosis and at a 10-year follow\"up, and a count of patients whose \"conversion\" symptoms were later diagnosed as physical illnesses. The estimated false positive rate was 25%. The symptoms most characteristic of the false positives were degenerative diseases and structural failures affecting the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. An effort to identify psychological parameters capable of separating true conversion reactions from false positives with a variety of behavioral symptoms and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory scores was not productive.", "PMID": 438796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4264", "title": "A biphasic change in mood with a tricyclic antidepressant.", "content": "Eight depressed patients received 150 mg of clomipramine for 4 weeks. They completed the Profile of Mood States five to seven times the first week of treatment and five to seven times at the end of treatment. Moods showing significant decrease from the beginning to the end of the first week were: tension-anxiety, depression, anger-hostility, and confusion. The only changes from the beginning to the end of the 4-week period were an increase in vigor and a decrease in fatigue. The occurrence of rapid and slow mood changes with antidepressants suggested that the former were due to sedative effects and the latter occurred at the rate of the improvement in the disease depression.", "contents": "A biphasic change in mood with a tricyclic antidepressant. Eight depressed patients received 150 mg of clomipramine for 4 weeks. They completed the Profile of Mood States five to seven times the first week of treatment and five to seven times at the end of treatment. Moods showing significant decrease from the beginning to the end of the first week were: tension-anxiety, depression, anger-hostility, and confusion. The only changes from the beginning to the end of the 4-week period were an increase in vigor and a decrease in fatigue. The occurrence of rapid and slow mood changes with antidepressants suggested that the former were due to sedative effects and the latter occurred at the rate of the improvement in the disease depression.", "PMID": 438797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4265", "title": "Cross-cultural differences in indicators of improvement from psychosis: the case of betel nut chewing.", "content": "This paper uses a case from the Micronesian Island of Yap to illustrate that indicators of improvement from an episode of schizophrenic psychosis can vary tremendously from culture to culture. At times, the clinician must search diligently for such indicators since the patient will not verbalize any perception of improvement. A 39-year-old Yapese woman was evaluated by a psychiatrist and was found to have been psychotic for several years, suffering from gross delusions, and auditory hallucinations, flattened affect, and social isolation. In addition, she had discontinued chewing betel nut that was used daily by virtually all of her fellow islanders on Yap. Two months after beginning treatment with twice monthly injectable antipsychotic medication she was still delusional, with flat affect, and heard the same voices. She was slightly less socially withdrawn and she had interestingly resumed chewing betel nut. It seemed that she had given up betel nut chewing during the socially withdrawn phase of her illness and had resumed it as she improved and became less autistically preoccupied. In her culture, betel chewing was a main avenue of social intercourse and an intrinsic part of almost all social activities. In her particular case, the resumption of betel chewing was a primary indicator of her improvement from psychosis and reintegration into her social group.", "contents": "Cross-cultural differences in indicators of improvement from psychosis: the case of betel nut chewing. This paper uses a case from the Micronesian Island of Yap to illustrate that indicators of improvement from an episode of schizophrenic psychosis can vary tremendously from culture to culture. At times, the clinician must search diligently for such indicators since the patient will not verbalize any perception of improvement. A 39-year-old Yapese woman was evaluated by a psychiatrist and was found to have been psychotic for several years, suffering from gross delusions, and auditory hallucinations, flattened affect, and social isolation. In addition, she had discontinued chewing betel nut that was used daily by virtually all of her fellow islanders on Yap. Two months after beginning treatment with twice monthly injectable antipsychotic medication she was still delusional, with flat affect, and heard the same voices. She was slightly less socially withdrawn and she had interestingly resumed chewing betel nut. It seemed that she had given up betel nut chewing during the socially withdrawn phase of her illness and had resumed it as she improved and became less autistically preoccupied. In her culture, betel chewing was a main avenue of social intercourse and an intrinsic part of almost all social activities. In her particular case, the resumption of betel chewing was a primary indicator of her improvement from psychosis and reintegration into her social group.", "PMID": 438798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4266", "title": "Effects of 4-aminopyridine on the turnover of monoamines in the central nervous system of the rat.", "content": "The effects of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on the turnovers of 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine and noradrenaline in the central nervous system of rats were studied by means of amine disappearance following inhibition of tryptophan or tyrosin hydroxylase. 4-AP (3 mg/kg i.p.) did not change the utilizations of 5-hydroxytryptamine or dopamine but it markedly accelerated that of noradrenaline in the brain and in the spinal cord. This stimulatory effect of 4-AP was completely dependent on nerve impulses since no effect was observed following an acute section of the noradrenaline nerves to the spinal cord. The effect of 4-AP was blocked by the alpha-adrenoreceptor stimulating agent clonidine. Pentylenetetrazole, at a dose producing similar behavioural changes as 4-AP, caused only a slight stimulation of the noradrenaline turnover. 4-AP might enhance the flux of calcium ions into nerve terminals during depolarization, and thus increase the release of noradrenaline, whereas this process might be of less importance in the dopamine and the 5-hydroxytryptamine nerves.", "contents": "Effects of 4-aminopyridine on the turnover of monoamines in the central nervous system of the rat. The effects of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on the turnovers of 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine and noradrenaline in the central nervous system of rats were studied by means of amine disappearance following inhibition of tryptophan or tyrosin hydroxylase. 4-AP (3 mg/kg i.p.) did not change the utilizations of 5-hydroxytryptamine or dopamine but it markedly accelerated that of noradrenaline in the brain and in the spinal cord. This stimulatory effect of 4-AP was completely dependent on nerve impulses since no effect was observed following an acute section of the noradrenaline nerves to the spinal cord. The effect of 4-AP was blocked by the alpha-adrenoreceptor stimulating agent clonidine. Pentylenetetrazole, at a dose producing similar behavioural changes as 4-AP, caused only a slight stimulation of the noradrenaline turnover. 4-AP might enhance the flux of calcium ions into nerve terminals during depolarization, and thus increase the release of noradrenaline, whereas this process might be of less importance in the dopamine and the 5-hydroxytryptamine nerves.", "PMID": 438799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4267", "title": "Effect of mazindol on brain dopamine turnover in spiperone-treated rats.", "content": "Mazindol, an anorexic drug, caused a large increase in brain 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) concentration in spiperone-pretreated rats. The increase was dose-related over a 1--10 mg/kg dose range of mazindol and was maximum within 1 hour after maxzindol injection into rats pretreated 1 hour previously with spiperone. In spiperone-pretreated rats, mazindol accelerated the disappearance of dopamine after the inhibition of dopamine synthesis by alpha-methyltyrosine. Mazindol apparently resembles amfonelic acid, methylphenidate, and cocaine in facilitating the impulse-mediated release of dopamine.", "contents": "Effect of mazindol on brain dopamine turnover in spiperone-treated rats. Mazindol, an anorexic drug, caused a large increase in brain 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) concentration in spiperone-pretreated rats. The increase was dose-related over a 1--10 mg/kg dose range of mazindol and was maximum within 1 hour after maxzindol injection into rats pretreated 1 hour previously with spiperone. In spiperone-pretreated rats, mazindol accelerated the disappearance of dopamine after the inhibition of dopamine synthesis by alpha-methyltyrosine. Mazindol apparently resembles amfonelic acid, methylphenidate, and cocaine in facilitating the impulse-mediated release of dopamine.", "PMID": 438800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4268", "title": "Failure of anticholinergic drugs to antagonize the increase in dopamine seen after gammahydroxybutyric acid and axotomy.", "content": "The increase in dopamine (DA) seen either 30 or 90 min after injection of gammahydroxybutyric acid or 90 min after axotomy of the nigrostriatal DA-fibers was not affected by i.p. injections of either atropine sulfate or atropine methyl nitrate or benztropine. These increases in DA are most probably due to feedback-mechanisms which do not involve cholinergic neurons.", "contents": "Failure of anticholinergic drugs to antagonize the increase in dopamine seen after gammahydroxybutyric acid and axotomy. The increase in dopamine (DA) seen either 30 or 90 min after injection of gammahydroxybutyric acid or 90 min after axotomy of the nigrostriatal DA-fibers was not affected by i.p. injections of either atropine sulfate or atropine methyl nitrate or benztropine. These increases in DA are most probably due to feedback-mechanisms which do not involve cholinergic neurons.", "PMID": 438801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4269", "title": "d-Amphetamine-induced increase in catecholamine synthesis in the corpus striatum of the rat: persistence of the effect after tolerance.", "content": "The effect of d-amphetamine on in vivo catecholamine synthesis in four regions of rat brain was determined by measuring the accumulation of dopa after inhibiton of dopa decarboxylase. In doses up to 2.5 mg/kg, d-amphetamine caused dose-dependent increases in striatal dopa accumulation to a maximum of 280% of control; further increases in dose resulted in smaller effects until 10 mg/kg d-amphetamine was not significantly different from control. d-Amphetamine did not alter dopa accumulation in telencephalon, in diencephalon-mesencephalon, or in pons-medulla oblongata. d-Amphetamine did not affect either dopamine levels in striatum or NE levels in pons-medulla oblongata; at high doses, d-amphetamine did reduce norepinephrine levels in telencephalon and in diencephalon-mesencephalon. Daily administration of pre-session but not of post-session d-amphetamine produced tolerance to the effects of d-amphetamine on milk consumption in rats. The ability of d-amphetamine to increase striatal catecholamine synthesis was not altered by the development of tolerance to d-amphetamine. These results suggest that tolerance to d-amphetamine is not related to its effect on catecholamine synthesis but instead occurs via changes in aspects of catecholamine metabolism other than synthesis via change in catecholamine release, reuptake, or receptor sensitivity, or via changes in non-catecholaminergic mechanisms.", "contents": "d-Amphetamine-induced increase in catecholamine synthesis in the corpus striatum of the rat: persistence of the effect after tolerance. The effect of d-amphetamine on in vivo catecholamine synthesis in four regions of rat brain was determined by measuring the accumulation of dopa after inhibiton of dopa decarboxylase. In doses up to 2.5 mg/kg, d-amphetamine caused dose-dependent increases in striatal dopa accumulation to a maximum of 280% of control; further increases in dose resulted in smaller effects until 10 mg/kg d-amphetamine was not significantly different from control. d-Amphetamine did not alter dopa accumulation in telencephalon, in diencephalon-mesencephalon, or in pons-medulla oblongata. d-Amphetamine did not affect either dopamine levels in striatum or NE levels in pons-medulla oblongata; at high doses, d-amphetamine did reduce norepinephrine levels in telencephalon and in diencephalon-mesencephalon. Daily administration of pre-session but not of post-session d-amphetamine produced tolerance to the effects of d-amphetamine on milk consumption in rats. The ability of d-amphetamine to increase striatal catecholamine synthesis was not altered by the development of tolerance to d-amphetamine. These results suggest that tolerance to d-amphetamine is not related to its effect on catecholamine synthesis but instead occurs via changes in aspects of catecholamine metabolism other than synthesis via change in catecholamine release, reuptake, or receptor sensitivity, or via changes in non-catecholaminergic mechanisms.", "PMID": 438802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4270", "title": "Studies on the colour-change mechanism in a fresh-water teleost, Nandus nandus (Ham.). I. Neural control.", "content": "The existence and nature of chromatic fibres controlling the colour-change mechanism in the teleost, Nandus nandus has been studied by means of spinal sectioning at various vertebral levels of the animal between vertebrae 3 to 10. Spinal sectioning at or anterior to 5th vertebra completely eliminated the neural control of colour-change. As a result, the animal darkened to its maximum and the neural responses of different backgrounds were abolished. Spinal sectioning at or posterior to vertebra 6 did not affect the melanophores and at the same time did not interfere with the normal background responses of the animal. This study clearly shows that the chromatic fibres in this species run in the spinal cord and leave the latter at 5/6th vertebral level. Effect of adrenaline in the chromatic spinal-sectioned fish shows that the fibres innervating the melanophores are aggregating in nature and adrenergic in character. The results also suggest that the dispersed condition of pigment in the melanophores represents the \"resting state\" of the melanophores when they are under no stimulation.", "contents": "Studies on the colour-change mechanism in a fresh-water teleost, Nandus nandus (Ham.). I. Neural control. The existence and nature of chromatic fibres controlling the colour-change mechanism in the teleost, Nandus nandus has been studied by means of spinal sectioning at various vertebral levels of the animal between vertebrae 3 to 10. Spinal sectioning at or anterior to 5th vertebra completely eliminated the neural control of colour-change. As a result, the animal darkened to its maximum and the neural responses of different backgrounds were abolished. Spinal sectioning at or posterior to vertebra 6 did not affect the melanophores and at the same time did not interfere with the normal background responses of the animal. This study clearly shows that the chromatic fibres in this species run in the spinal cord and leave the latter at 5/6th vertebral level. Effect of adrenaline in the chromatic spinal-sectioned fish shows that the fibres innervating the melanophores are aggregating in nature and adrenergic in character. The results also suggest that the dispersed condition of pigment in the melanophores represents the \"resting state\" of the melanophores when they are under no stimulation.", "PMID": 438803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4271", "title": "Developmental changes in the activity of catechol-O-methyl transferase in rat and rabbit fetuses.", "content": "Variations in the activity of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) in peripheral organs in the brain of rat and rabbit fetus during development have been studied. The pattern of changes in COMT activity in rat fetus differed to a great extent according to the respective organs studied. In kidney and liver sharp declines occurred between days 18 and 20 and days 16 and 18 of fetal life respectively, followed by progressive increases up to onset of birth. Brain COMT of rat fetus declined progressively from day 16 of fetal life up to 0 hours after birth, while COMPT activity in adrenal and heart showed its maximum value at the 20th day of fetal life and at 0 hours after birth respectively. In the contrary, the developmental changes in activity of rabbit fetus were very similar in all the organs except in the adrenals, since it decreased between day 24 to 8 hours after birth in heart, liver, brain and kidney. In the adrenals an important increase could be seen between the 24th and 28th days of fetal life. Rat COMT activity during 4 and 8 hours of postnatal life in heart, liver and kidney declined from 0-hour value but it increased in the brain and adrenals. COMT in rabbit increased after birth in all the organs studied. The results suggest that metabolic degradation of catecholamines by 3-O-methylation in rat and rabbit fetus may have different developmental patterns to some extent according to the physiological status of the organ concerned. These species related differences for monoamine inactivation during fetal development may suggest a physiological role for COMT as a marker of the maturation of the autonomic nervous system.", "contents": "Developmental changes in the activity of catechol-O-methyl transferase in rat and rabbit fetuses. Variations in the activity of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) in peripheral organs in the brain of rat and rabbit fetus during development have been studied. The pattern of changes in COMT activity in rat fetus differed to a great extent according to the respective organs studied. In kidney and liver sharp declines occurred between days 18 and 20 and days 16 and 18 of fetal life respectively, followed by progressive increases up to onset of birth. Brain COMT of rat fetus declined progressively from day 16 of fetal life up to 0 hours after birth, while COMPT activity in adrenal and heart showed its maximum value at the 20th day of fetal life and at 0 hours after birth respectively. In the contrary, the developmental changes in activity of rabbit fetus were very similar in all the organs except in the adrenals, since it decreased between day 24 to 8 hours after birth in heart, liver, brain and kidney. In the adrenals an important increase could be seen between the 24th and 28th days of fetal life. Rat COMT activity during 4 and 8 hours of postnatal life in heart, liver and kidney declined from 0-hour value but it increased in the brain and adrenals. COMT in rabbit increased after birth in all the organs studied. The results suggest that metabolic degradation of catecholamines by 3-O-methylation in rat and rabbit fetus may have different developmental patterns to some extent according to the physiological status of the organ concerned. These species related differences for monoamine inactivation during fetal development may suggest a physiological role for COMT as a marker of the maturation of the autonomic nervous system.", "PMID": 438804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4272", "title": "Histochemical identification of acetylcholinesterase in dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons.", "content": "By combining histochemical procedures, evidence was obtained in the rat that acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is contained within perikarya of dopaminergic substantia nigra cells which project to the caudoputamen. Nigrostriatal neurons were identified by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Simultaneous incubation of substantia nigra sections for the presence of AChE and HRP demonstrated both reaction products in the same cell bodies. The catecholaminergic nature of these cells was determined by a loss of HRP and AChE reaction products subsequent to intranigral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine.", "contents": "Histochemical identification of acetylcholinesterase in dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons. By combining histochemical procedures, evidence was obtained in the rat that acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is contained within perikarya of dopaminergic substantia nigra cells which project to the caudoputamen. Nigrostriatal neurons were identified by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Simultaneous incubation of substantia nigra sections for the presence of AChE and HRP demonstrated both reaction products in the same cell bodies. The catecholaminergic nature of these cells was determined by a loss of HRP and AChE reaction products subsequent to intranigral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine.", "PMID": 438805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4273", "title": "A survey of some active sheep pineal fractions and a discussion on the possible significance of pteridines in those fractions in in vitro and in vivo assays.", "content": "Aqueous extracts of sheep pineals are separated on Sephadex G-25 fraction with antigonadotropic activity are ultrafiltered through the membrane UM 2. The UM 2 filtrate is subsequently filtered through the membrane UM 05. The actions of the different fractions on the anterior hypophysis and hypothalamus are discussed. The fractions which show an activity are further separated on Sephadex G-10. The active Sephadex G-10 fractions of the UM 05 filtrate acting on the anterior hypophysis in vitro are purified by electrophoresis and paper chromatography. After elution of different fluorescence bands the main inhibitory activity is found in a region, with the same Rf value as synthetic 6-biopterin. Gas liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry studies of the isolated fractions are carried out. The mass spectrum of an isolated compound from that fraction is identical with that of synthetic 6-biopterin. Thinlayer chromatography and the results of the Crithidia fasciculata test reveal that the isolated compound is probably identical with 6-L-erythrobiopterin. The activity of the active paper chromatography fraction (C4) is compared with the activity of three synthetic biopterin-preparations in vitro and in vivo.", "contents": "A survey of some active sheep pineal fractions and a discussion on the possible significance of pteridines in those fractions in in vitro and in vivo assays. Aqueous extracts of sheep pineals are separated on Sephadex G-25 fraction with antigonadotropic activity are ultrafiltered through the membrane UM 2. The UM 2 filtrate is subsequently filtered through the membrane UM 05. The actions of the different fractions on the anterior hypophysis and hypothalamus are discussed. The fractions which show an activity are further separated on Sephadex G-10. The active Sephadex G-10 fractions of the UM 05 filtrate acting on the anterior hypophysis in vitro are purified by electrophoresis and paper chromatography. After elution of different fluorescence bands the main inhibitory activity is found in a region, with the same Rf value as synthetic 6-biopterin. Gas liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry studies of the isolated fractions are carried out. The mass spectrum of an isolated compound from that fraction is identical with that of synthetic 6-biopterin. Thinlayer chromatography and the results of the Crithidia fasciculata test reveal that the isolated compound is probably identical with 6-L-erythrobiopterin. The activity of the active paper chromatography fraction (C4) is compared with the activity of three synthetic biopterin-preparations in vitro and in vivo.", "PMID": 438806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4274", "title": "Dose-dependent pharmacokinetics of alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (alpha-MT) and comparison of catecholamine turnover rates after two doses of alpha-MT.", "content": "Groups of rats were injected i.p. with 0.407 or 1.02 mmoles/kg of D,L-alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine methylester HCl (alpha-MT). The time-courses for alpha-MT in plasma and brain were followed together with the endogenous brain dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) contents. The elimination of alpha-MT from plasma and brain was markedly delayed after the high alpha-MT dose compared with the low dose. At 40 hours after the injection of 1.02 mmoles/kg of alpha-MT both plasma and brain levels were high, whereas no alpha-MT could be detected in plasma or brain at 16 hours after the lower dose. The brain catecholamines were decreased to very low values after the higher alpha-MT dose (DA 14% and NA 10% of controls at 8 and 24 hours respectively). There was no complete recuperation at 40 hours of any of the amines. After the lower alpha-MT dose, the DA concentration was back to control levels at 16 hours and NA at 12 hours. Between 16--40 hours after the high alpha-MT dose a majority of the rats showed prominent signs of sedation, weight loss and dehydration. No such signs were observed in rats receiving 0.407 mmoles/kg. During the first hour after the alpha-MT injection the declines of DA and NA respectively were almost identical for both alpha-MT doses. When the whole time-course (0--8 hours) after the high dose was considered, biphasic declines were obtained for both DA and NA, suggesting at least two different catecholamine pools. However, due to toxic effects after the high alpha-MT dose, turnover data have to be interpreted with caution.", "contents": "Dose-dependent pharmacokinetics of alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (alpha-MT) and comparison of catecholamine turnover rates after two doses of alpha-MT. Groups of rats were injected i.p. with 0.407 or 1.02 mmoles/kg of D,L-alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine methylester HCl (alpha-MT). The time-courses for alpha-MT in plasma and brain were followed together with the endogenous brain dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) contents. The elimination of alpha-MT from plasma and brain was markedly delayed after the high alpha-MT dose compared with the low dose. At 40 hours after the injection of 1.02 mmoles/kg of alpha-MT both plasma and brain levels were high, whereas no alpha-MT could be detected in plasma or brain at 16 hours after the lower dose. The brain catecholamines were decreased to very low values after the higher alpha-MT dose (DA 14% and NA 10% of controls at 8 and 24 hours respectively). There was no complete recuperation at 40 hours of any of the amines. After the lower alpha-MT dose, the DA concentration was back to control levels at 16 hours and NA at 12 hours. Between 16--40 hours after the high alpha-MT dose a majority of the rats showed prominent signs of sedation, weight loss and dehydration. No such signs were observed in rats receiving 0.407 mmoles/kg. During the first hour after the alpha-MT injection the declines of DA and NA respectively were almost identical for both alpha-MT doses. When the whole time-course (0--8 hours) after the high dose was considered, biphasic declines were obtained for both DA and NA, suggesting at least two different catecholamine pools. However, due to toxic effects after the high alpha-MT dose, turnover data have to be interpreted with caution.", "PMID": 438807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4275", "title": "The effect of repeated administration of antidepressant drugs on the responsiveness of rats to catecholamine agonists.", "content": "The antidepressant drugs, imipramine (10 mg/kg s.c.), amitriptyline (10 mg/kg s.c.), mianserin (2 mg/kg i.p.), danitracen (3 mg/kg i.p.) or the vehicle were administered to rats twice a day for 4 or 10 days. Clonidine (0.5 mg/kg s.c.) induced in rats chronically treated with the compounds studied an increase in locomotor activity but, at the same time, did not affect or decreased this activity in rats chronically treated with the vehicle or a single dose of an antidepressant. This refers, in particular, to imipramine, amitriptyline and danitracen which have a similar effect. This effect, an increase in motility, was most pronounced and common for all the three drugs (after a 4- and 10-day treatment) when clonidine was administered 72 hours after the last dose of an antidepressant. Only in a few cases the amphetamine-induced hypermotility was enhanced by a chronic administration of antidepressants (a 4-day amitriptyline treatment, 72 hours after the last injection; a 4-day mianserin or danitracen treatment, 48 hours after the last injection). The results obtained seem to suggest that a chronic administration of the antidepressant drugs may cause a change in the sensitivity of the central noradrenaline receptors.", "contents": "The effect of repeated administration of antidepressant drugs on the responsiveness of rats to catecholamine agonists. The antidepressant drugs, imipramine (10 mg/kg s.c.), amitriptyline (10 mg/kg s.c.), mianserin (2 mg/kg i.p.), danitracen (3 mg/kg i.p.) or the vehicle were administered to rats twice a day for 4 or 10 days. Clonidine (0.5 mg/kg s.c.) induced in rats chronically treated with the compounds studied an increase in locomotor activity but, at the same time, did not affect or decreased this activity in rats chronically treated with the vehicle or a single dose of an antidepressant. This refers, in particular, to imipramine, amitriptyline and danitracen which have a similar effect. This effect, an increase in motility, was most pronounced and common for all the three drugs (after a 4- and 10-day treatment) when clonidine was administered 72 hours after the last dose of an antidepressant. Only in a few cases the amphetamine-induced hypermotility was enhanced by a chronic administration of antidepressants (a 4-day amitriptyline treatment, 72 hours after the last injection; a 4-day mianserin or danitracen treatment, 48 hours after the last injection). The results obtained seem to suggest that a chronic administration of the antidepressant drugs may cause a change in the sensitivity of the central noradrenaline receptors.", "PMID": 438808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4276", "title": "Trazodone, a central serotonin antagonist and agonist.", "content": "We examined the effect of trazodone (TR), a non-tricyclic antidepressant drug with an unknown mechanism of action, as well as its supposed metabolites beta-(3-oxo-s-triazolo-[4, 3 a]-pyridin-2-yl-propionic acid (OTPA) and 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-piperazine (CPP) on the serotonin (5-HT) -system in a model of the hind limb flexor reflex of the spinal rat. When given alone at low doses (1 mg/kg) TR does not change the flexor reflex but counteracts its serotonergic stimulation induced by LSD, quipazine or fenfluramine. At higher doses (6--8 mg/kg), after a period of latency, it enhances the reflex; this effect is antagonized by the 5-HT receptor blockers (cyproheptadine, WA-335 and metergoline) but not by imipramine. From the two TR metabolites studied only CPP exerts an effect in the flexor reflex model. It considerably enhances (0.05--1 mg/kg) the reflex, this effect being antagonized by cyproheptadine, WA-335 and metergoline, but not by imipramine. Our findings indicate that TR has a double effect on the central 5-HT system: at low doses it acts as a 5-HT antagonist, whereas at higher ones--as a 5-HT agonist. The latter effect may be connected with formation of a metabolite, CPP, or a compound chemically related to CPP.", "contents": "Trazodone, a central serotonin antagonist and agonist. We examined the effect of trazodone (TR), a non-tricyclic antidepressant drug with an unknown mechanism of action, as well as its supposed metabolites beta-(3-oxo-s-triazolo-[4, 3 a]-pyridin-2-yl-propionic acid (OTPA) and 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-piperazine (CPP) on the serotonin (5-HT) -system in a model of the hind limb flexor reflex of the spinal rat. When given alone at low doses (1 mg/kg) TR does not change the flexor reflex but counteracts its serotonergic stimulation induced by LSD, quipazine or fenfluramine. At higher doses (6--8 mg/kg), after a period of latency, it enhances the reflex; this effect is antagonized by the 5-HT receptor blockers (cyproheptadine, WA-335 and metergoline) but not by imipramine. From the two TR metabolites studied only CPP exerts an effect in the flexor reflex model. It considerably enhances (0.05--1 mg/kg) the reflex, this effect being antagonized by cyproheptadine, WA-335 and metergoline, but not by imipramine. Our findings indicate that TR has a double effect on the central 5-HT system: at low doses it acts as a 5-HT antagonist, whereas at higher ones--as a 5-HT agonist. The latter effect may be connected with formation of a metabolite, CPP, or a compound chemically related to CPP.", "PMID": 438809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4277", "title": "Familial occurrence of moya-moya disease: report of three Japanese families.", "content": "Three Japanese families with moya-moya disease in six patients are presented. These six patients were among 49 cases of confirmed moya-moya disease in our experience, and the familial incidence was more than 12%. A relatively high familial incidence (7%) was found in the total Japanese series emphasising the important hereditary components in the pathogenesis of the disease.", "contents": "Familial occurrence of moya-moya disease: report of three Japanese families. Three Japanese families with moya-moya disease in six patients are presented. These six patients were among 49 cases of confirmed moya-moya disease in our experience, and the familial incidence was more than 12%. A relatively high familial incidence (7%) was found in the total Japanese series emphasising the important hereditary components in the pathogenesis of the disease.", "PMID": 438828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4278", "title": "Computerised tomography after recent severe head injury in patients without acute intracranial haematoma.", "content": "Sixty patients with severe head injury who did not have an acute intracranial haematoma on CAT scanning are reviewed. The scans are correlated with the level of consciousness at the time of scanning and with the outcome six months after injury. The initial scan was interpreted as being normal in 38% of the cases. In the remainder the most common abnormalities were small ventricles and areas of mixed increased and decreased density interpreted as contusions. All the patients with small ventricles were under 20 years of age. Postmortem examinations were undertaken on 15 of the 19 fatal cases. There was evidence of a high intracranial pressure in 12, cerebral contusions were absent or minimal in 10, there was diffuse immediate impact damage to white matter in six, and there was moderate or severe hypoxic damage in four.", "contents": "Computerised tomography after recent severe head injury in patients without acute intracranial haematoma. Sixty patients with severe head injury who did not have an acute intracranial haematoma on CAT scanning are reviewed. The scans are correlated with the level of consciousness at the time of scanning and with the outcome six months after injury. The initial scan was interpreted as being normal in 38% of the cases. In the remainder the most common abnormalities were small ventricles and areas of mixed increased and decreased density interpreted as contusions. All the patients with small ventricles were under 20 years of age. Postmortem examinations were undertaken on 15 of the 19 fatal cases. There was evidence of a high intracranial pressure in 12, cerebral contusions were absent or minimal in 10, there was diffuse immediate impact damage to white matter in six, and there was moderate or severe hypoxic damage in four.", "PMID": 438829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4279", "title": "Wernicke's encephalopathy: a more common disease than realised. A neuropathological study of 51 cases.", "content": "During a four year peirod, 51 cases of Wernicke's encephalopathy were diagnosed at necropsy, an incidence of 1.7% of all necropsies performed at the Royal Perth Hospital and by the Perth City coroner. Only seven had been diagnosed during life. Many of the patients died suddenly and unexpectedly, apparently as a result of haemorrhagic brainstem lesions, typical of acute Wernicke's encephalopathy, since no other cause of death was found. There was a high incidence of epilepsy and four patients were hypothermic. The diagnosis of Wernicke's encephalopathy may be missed at necropsy unless the brain is examined histologically. Cerebral atrophy and ventricular dilatation were common findings. This is a more common disease than is generally recognised, one which can be readily treated and, more importantly, prevented by adequate nutrition.", "contents": "Wernicke's encephalopathy: a more common disease than realised. A neuropathological study of 51 cases. During a four year peirod, 51 cases of Wernicke's encephalopathy were diagnosed at necropsy, an incidence of 1.7% of all necropsies performed at the Royal Perth Hospital and by the Perth City coroner. Only seven had been diagnosed during life. Many of the patients died suddenly and unexpectedly, apparently as a result of haemorrhagic brainstem lesions, typical of acute Wernicke's encephalopathy, since no other cause of death was found. There was a high incidence of epilepsy and four patients were hypothermic. The diagnosis of Wernicke's encephalopathy may be missed at necropsy unless the brain is examined histologically. Cerebral atrophy and ventricular dilatation were common findings. This is a more common disease than is generally recognised, one which can be readily treated and, more importantly, prevented by adequate nutrition.", "PMID": 438830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4280", "title": "Ballistic elbow flexion movements in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.", "content": "Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis made stereotyped 20 degrees elbow flexion movements as rapidly as possible while surface EMG was recorded from biceps and triceps. The characteristic ballistic movement EMG pattern could be recognised in almost all the patients. The first agonist burst and the first antagonist burst, which are normally limited in duration, were prolonged in patients with clinical signs of pyramidal tract disease or alpha motor neurone disease or both. Prolongation of these components permits the muscles to generate sufficient forces to accomplish the movements.", "contents": "Ballistic elbow flexion movements in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis made stereotyped 20 degrees elbow flexion movements as rapidly as possible while surface EMG was recorded from biceps and triceps. The characteristic ballistic movement EMG pattern could be recognised in almost all the patients. The first agonist burst and the first antagonist burst, which are normally limited in duration, were prolonged in patients with clinical signs of pyramidal tract disease or alpha motor neurone disease or both. Prolongation of these components permits the muscles to generate sufficient forces to accomplish the movements.", "PMID": 438831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4281", "title": "Delayed cervical somatosensory potentials in cervical spondylosis.", "content": "The cervical somatosensory evoked potential after median nerve stimulation was recorded in 14 patients with cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy and, in 10 cases, myelopathy. Four patients had normal potentials, five showed delayed potentials, and in five others no potential could be seen.", "contents": "Delayed cervical somatosensory potentials in cervical spondylosis. The cervical somatosensory evoked potential after median nerve stimulation was recorded in 14 patients with cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy and, in 10 cases, myelopathy. Four patients had normal potentials, five showed delayed potentials, and in five others no potential could be seen.", "PMID": 438832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4282", "title": "Slow cord dorsum potentials elicited by descending volleys in man.", "content": "Human cord dorsum potential (CDP) was recorded from the posterior epidural space at the levels of cervical and lumbar enlargements, using epidural catheters as the recording electrodes, in 15 normal volunteers and six patients suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In normal subjects the CDP elicited by descending volleys consisted of spike potentials followed by sharp negative and slow positive waves which were very similar to the P1, N1, and P2 potentials, respectively, of the CDP evoked segmentally. By contrast, in all patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis both the sharp negative and slow positive waves were absent in the CDP elicited by descending volleys, while the pattern of each component of the segmentally evoked CDP remained unchanged. Thus, the sharp negative and slow positive waves of human CDP elicited by descending volleys might reflect the activity of interneurones and primary afferent depolarisation respectively, produced by impulses through the corticospinal tract.", "contents": "Slow cord dorsum potentials elicited by descending volleys in man. Human cord dorsum potential (CDP) was recorded from the posterior epidural space at the levels of cervical and lumbar enlargements, using epidural catheters as the recording electrodes, in 15 normal volunteers and six patients suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In normal subjects the CDP elicited by descending volleys consisted of spike potentials followed by sharp negative and slow positive waves which were very similar to the P1, N1, and P2 potentials, respectively, of the CDP evoked segmentally. By contrast, in all patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis both the sharp negative and slow positive waves were absent in the CDP elicited by descending volleys, while the pattern of each component of the segmentally evoked CDP remained unchanged. Thus, the sharp negative and slow positive waves of human CDP elicited by descending volleys might reflect the activity of interneurones and primary afferent depolarisation respectively, produced by impulses through the corticospinal tract.", "PMID": 438833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4283", "title": "Effect of raising body temperature on visual and somatosensory evoked potentials in patients with multiple sclerosis.", "content": "The effects of raising body temperature on the visual (VEP) and somatosensory (SEP) evoked potentials were observed in normal subjects and in patients with multiple sclerosis. The amplitude of the VEP was significantly reduced to the same degree after heating in normal subjects and in patients with multiple sclerosis but there was no effect on the latency of the potential. Changes in amplitude could not be related to reduction in acuity. In contrast, the cervical SEP was greatly disorganised after heating in many patients with multiple sclerosis while the only effect in normal subjects was to reduce the latency by increasing peripheral conduction velocity. These results suggest that heat caused conduction block in demyelinated axons in the sensory pathways of the cervical spinal cord.", "contents": "Effect of raising body temperature on visual and somatosensory evoked potentials in patients with multiple sclerosis. The effects of raising body temperature on the visual (VEP) and somatosensory (SEP) evoked potentials were observed in normal subjects and in patients with multiple sclerosis. The amplitude of the VEP was significantly reduced to the same degree after heating in normal subjects and in patients with multiple sclerosis but there was no effect on the latency of the potential. Changes in amplitude could not be related to reduction in acuity. In contrast, the cervical SEP was greatly disorganised after heating in many patients with multiple sclerosis while the only effect in normal subjects was to reduce the latency by increasing peripheral conduction velocity. These results suggest that heat caused conduction block in demyelinated axons in the sensory pathways of the cervical spinal cord.", "PMID": 438834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4284", "title": "Mental aspects of temporal lobe epilepsy. Follow-up of 74 patients after resection of a temporal lobe.", "content": "Psychiatric disorders were investigated in 74 patients with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (complex partial epilepsy). In all cases unilateral anterior temporal lobectomy had been performed during the period 1960-69. At follow-up in 1970-71, 45 patients were free from seizures, and in a further group of 15 patients seizure frequency had been substantially reduced. There were four postoperative deaths. Six patients were psychiatrically normal and had no history of any such disorder. Behavioural disturbances were observed in 55 patients. Before operation 11 patients displayed schizophrenia-like psychoses, and nine others became psychotic during follow-up. Fourteen patients attempted suicide on one or more occasions. Half the patients had diminished sexual drive. Improvement in psychiatric status was clearly correlated with relief from seizures and, in those cases with only a few or no seizures after operation, led directly to social rehabilitation. The presence or absence of a psychiatric disorder was not useful as a criterion for or against surgery.", "contents": "Mental aspects of temporal lobe epilepsy. Follow-up of 74 patients after resection of a temporal lobe. Psychiatric disorders were investigated in 74 patients with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (complex partial epilepsy). In all cases unilateral anterior temporal lobectomy had been performed during the period 1960-69. At follow-up in 1970-71, 45 patients were free from seizures, and in a further group of 15 patients seizure frequency had been substantially reduced. There were four postoperative deaths. Six patients were psychiatrically normal and had no history of any such disorder. Behavioural disturbances were observed in 55 patients. Before operation 11 patients displayed schizophrenia-like psychoses, and nine others became psychotic during follow-up. Fourteen patients attempted suicide on one or more occasions. Half the patients had diminished sexual drive. Improvement in psychiatric status was clearly correlated with relief from seizures and, in those cases with only a few or no seizures after operation, led directly to social rehabilitation. The presence or absence of a psychiatric disorder was not useful as a criterion for or against surgery.", "PMID": 438835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4285", "title": "Pure agraphia: a discrete form of aphasia.", "content": "A 62 year old, right handed man developed a pure agraphia as the result of a left temporal lobe stroke. Isolated writing disturbances persisted for seven months until he had a second cerebrovascular accident resulting in total aphasia and right hemiplegia. A CAT scan obtained four months after the first episode showed a localised dilatation of the posterior portion of the left Sylvian cistern and patchy areas of low absorption in the left temporal lobe. The report supports suggestions that localised damage to the language area can produce a pure agraphia as the sole detectable disorder of language organisation.", "contents": "Pure agraphia: a discrete form of aphasia. A 62 year old, right handed man developed a pure agraphia as the result of a left temporal lobe stroke. Isolated writing disturbances persisted for seven months until he had a second cerebrovascular accident resulting in total aphasia and right hemiplegia. A CAT scan obtained four months after the first episode showed a localised dilatation of the posterior portion of the left Sylvian cistern and patchy areas of low absorption in the left temporal lobe. The report supports suggestions that localised damage to the language area can produce a pure agraphia as the sole detectable disorder of language organisation.", "PMID": 438836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4286", "title": "Remittent painful ophthalmoplegia: the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome? A report of seven cases and review of the literature.", "content": "Seven patients with remittent painful ophthalmoplegia for which no specific local cause was found were seen during a period of five years. One had coincidental rheumatoid arthritis, and another had actinomycosis of the ipsilateral middle ear and contralateral parotid gland. The other five had no evidence of generalised autoimmune disease nor any other systemic disorder, two having separate episodes affecting each side. A history of relapsing and remitting painful ophthalmoplegia is suggestive of the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, but it is rarely possible to confirm that the lesion in the cavernous sinus is the result of non-specific granulomatous infiltration so that the diagnosis remains one of exclusion. Carotid arteriography may show narrowing of the intracavernous part of the internal carotid artery. Orbital venography may also be helpful, particularly when the carotid arteriogram is normal. We believe that the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is more common in England than is generally realised, but that its clinical features do not necessarily indicate a single pathological entity. Its recognition is important since the response to steroids, although not specific, is rapid in most patients, and the prognosis for complete recovery is relatively good.", "contents": "Remittent painful ophthalmoplegia: the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome? A report of seven cases and review of the literature. Seven patients with remittent painful ophthalmoplegia for which no specific local cause was found were seen during a period of five years. One had coincidental rheumatoid arthritis, and another had actinomycosis of the ipsilateral middle ear and contralateral parotid gland. The other five had no evidence of generalised autoimmune disease nor any other systemic disorder, two having separate episodes affecting each side. A history of relapsing and remitting painful ophthalmoplegia is suggestive of the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, but it is rarely possible to confirm that the lesion in the cavernous sinus is the result of non-specific granulomatous infiltration so that the diagnosis remains one of exclusion. Carotid arteriography may show narrowing of the intracavernous part of the internal carotid artery. Orbital venography may also be helpful, particularly when the carotid arteriogram is normal. We believe that the Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is more common in England than is generally realised, but that its clinical features do not necessarily indicate a single pathological entity. Its recognition is important since the response to steroids, although not specific, is rapid in most patients, and the prognosis for complete recovery is relatively good.", "PMID": 438837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4287", "title": "Rigid spine syndrome.", "content": "A patient is described with distinctive clinical features including childhood onset of non-progressive muscle weakness, limitation of flexion of the neck and spine, scoliosis, and joint contracture. Muscle biopsy and electromyography showed findings suggestive of a myopathic disorder. The combination of these distinctive clinical features is termed the rigid spine syndrome. Only six cases have been reported in the literature to date.", "contents": "Rigid spine syndrome. A patient is described with distinctive clinical features including childhood onset of non-progressive muscle weakness, limitation of flexion of the neck and spine, scoliosis, and joint contracture. Muscle biopsy and electromyography showed findings suggestive of a myopathic disorder. The combination of these distinctive clinical features is termed the rigid spine syndrome. Only six cases have been reported in the literature to date.", "PMID": 438838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4288", "title": "Cauda equina compression presenting as spontaneous priapism.", "content": "Disturbance of autonomic function is an unusual feature of compression of the cauda equina. A 61 year old man who had complete occlusion of the lumbar spinal canal with compression of the cauda equina from a large centrally prolapsed disc, had spontaneous priapism, precipitated by walking and relieved by resting. This symptom was comparable to claudication by compression of cauda equina. It subsided completely after surgical removal of a prolapsed L4-5 disc.", "contents": "Cauda equina compression presenting as spontaneous priapism. Disturbance of autonomic function is an unusual feature of compression of the cauda equina. A 61 year old man who had complete occlusion of the lumbar spinal canal with compression of the cauda equina from a large centrally prolapsed disc, had spontaneous priapism, precipitated by walking and relieved by resting. This symptom was comparable to claudication by compression of cauda equina. It subsided completely after surgical removal of a prolapsed L4-5 disc.", "PMID": 438839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4289", "title": "Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP): purification from human fibrillary astrocytoma, development and validation of a radioimmunoassay for GFAP-like immunoactivity.", "content": "The extraction and purification of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) from human fibrillary cerebellar astrocytoma is described. Using an immunoperoxidase method, antisera raised to the protein showed specific staining of astrocytes in normal spinal cord and in tumours of astrocytic origin. A double antibody radioimmunoassay for GFAP in tissue extract was developed, the detection limit of the assay being 360 pg. Extracts of tissues other than brain or spinal cord did not cross-react significantly in the assay, neither did purified preparations of myelin basic and S-100 proteins. Levels of GFAP in normal CNS tissue were higest in spinal cord (1370 microgram/g wet weight) but a level of 3050 microgram/g wet weight was detected in a fibrillary astrocytoma.", "contents": "Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP): purification from human fibrillary astrocytoma, development and validation of a radioimmunoassay for GFAP-like immunoactivity. The extraction and purification of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) from human fibrillary cerebellar astrocytoma is described. Using an immunoperoxidase method, antisera raised to the protein showed specific staining of astrocytes in normal spinal cord and in tumours of astrocytic origin. A double antibody radioimmunoassay for GFAP in tissue extract was developed, the detection limit of the assay being 360 pg. Extracts of tissues other than brain or spinal cord did not cross-react significantly in the assay, neither did purified preparations of myelin basic and S-100 proteins. Levels of GFAP in normal CNS tissue were higest in spinal cord (1370 microgram/g wet weight) but a level of 3050 microgram/g wet weight was detected in a fibrillary astrocytoma.", "PMID": 438840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4290", "title": "Maturation of human skeletal muscle fibres in explant tissue culture.", "content": "Human foetal skeletal muscle was grown in explant cultures and the development of myotubes was monitored morphologically and by the development of membrane potential and acetycholine sensitivity. Migration of uninucleate cells from the explants occurred in the first day of culture and formation of multinucleated myotubes took place between 7 to 10 days. Early myotubes were variable in appearance, being either flat and nonrefractile or narrow and cylindrical. Some cross-striated cells were observed. Resting membrane potentials were around -25mV and there was great variation in myotube sensitivity to acetylcholine. After about 6 weeks in culture most myotubes were of the refractile type. Many had hypolemmal nuclei and were cross-striated; some contracted spontaneously. All myotubes had developed high sensitivity to acetylcholine although there had been no increase in resting membrane potential.", "contents": "Maturation of human skeletal muscle fibres in explant tissue culture. Human foetal skeletal muscle was grown in explant cultures and the development of myotubes was monitored morphologically and by the development of membrane potential and acetycholine sensitivity. Migration of uninucleate cells from the explants occurred in the first day of culture and formation of multinucleated myotubes took place between 7 to 10 days. Early myotubes were variable in appearance, being either flat and nonrefractile or narrow and cylindrical. Some cross-striated cells were observed. Resting membrane potentials were around -25mV and there was great variation in myotube sensitivity to acetylcholine. After about 6 weeks in culture most myotubes were of the refractile type. Many had hypolemmal nuclei and were cross-striated; some contracted spontaneously. All myotubes had developed high sensitivity to acetylcholine although there had been no increase in resting membrane potential.", "PMID": 438841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4291", "title": "Effect of tenotomy on self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscle of rat.", "content": "The time course and degree of atrophic changes caused by tenotomy were compared in normal, self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscle 6 months after transsection and reunion of the nerve at different distances from the muscle. Comparison was made between the behaviour of Type I and Type II fibers, distinguished on the basis of histochemical myofibrillar ATPase and succinic dehydrogenase reactions. Cross-sectional areas of individual muscle fibers were measured using Quantimet 720 image analyser. Selective atrophy of Type I muscle fibers as determined by structural and histochemical changes was observed after tenotomy of normal, self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscles after transsection of the muscular branch of the tibial nerve, Type II muscle fibers in randomly reinnervated muscles were found to be relatively insensitive to tenotomy, as in normal muscle. In randomly reinnervated muscles after transsection and reunion of the sciatic nerve, tenotomy did not cause any visible structural and histochemical abnormalities although a decrease of muscle weight and cross-sectional surface area of fibers was noted. Since in these muscles Type II fibers increased to about 70% of the muscle fiber population, it is suggested that the increased percentage of Type II fibers seemed to prevent the atrophic changes in Type I fibers after tenotomy.", "contents": "Effect of tenotomy on self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscle of rat. The time course and degree of atrophic changes caused by tenotomy were compared in normal, self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscle 6 months after transsection and reunion of the nerve at different distances from the muscle. Comparison was made between the behaviour of Type I and Type II fibers, distinguished on the basis of histochemical myofibrillar ATPase and succinic dehydrogenase reactions. Cross-sectional areas of individual muscle fibers were measured using Quantimet 720 image analyser. Selective atrophy of Type I muscle fibers as determined by structural and histochemical changes was observed after tenotomy of normal, self-reinnervated and randomly reinnervated soleus muscles after transsection of the muscular branch of the tibial nerve, Type II muscle fibers in randomly reinnervated muscles were found to be relatively insensitive to tenotomy, as in normal muscle. In randomly reinnervated muscles after transsection and reunion of the sciatic nerve, tenotomy did not cause any visible structural and histochemical abnormalities although a decrease of muscle weight and cross-sectional surface area of fibers was noted. Since in these muscles Type II fibers increased to about 70% of the muscle fiber population, it is suggested that the increased percentage of Type II fibers seemed to prevent the atrophic changes in Type I fibers after tenotomy.", "PMID": 438843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4292", "title": "Neutralizing antibodies to canine distemper and measles virus in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Serum neutralizing antibody to canine distemper virus (CDV) was measured in 142 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), an equal number of age and sex-matched normal controls, and 75 patients with other neurological disorders. An elevated antibody titer was found in the MS population compared to controls. Measles-neutralizing antibody was also found to be elevated in 128 patients with MS. The mean ratio of measles to CDV antibody was similar in the control and MS groups, but a wide range of measles to CDV ratios was found in individual patients and controls. No significant correlation was found between IgG levels and neutralizing antibody titers in MS sera. While the increased titer of measles and CDV antibody may represent a non-specific immunological response, these findings are also consistent with the hypothesis that CDV or a closely related measles virus may stimulate the increased level of measles and CDV antibodies found in MS sera.", "contents": "Neutralizing antibodies to canine distemper and measles virus in multiple sclerosis. Serum neutralizing antibody to canine distemper virus (CDV) was measured in 142 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), an equal number of age and sex-matched normal controls, and 75 patients with other neurological disorders. An elevated antibody titer was found in the MS population compared to controls. Measles-neutralizing antibody was also found to be elevated in 128 patients with MS. The mean ratio of measles to CDV antibody was similar in the control and MS groups, but a wide range of measles to CDV ratios was found in individual patients and controls. No significant correlation was found between IgG levels and neutralizing antibody titers in MS sera. While the increased titer of measles and CDV antibody may represent a non-specific immunological response, these findings are also consistent with the hypothesis that CDV or a closely related measles virus may stimulate the increased level of measles and CDV antibodies found in MS sera.", "PMID": 438844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4293", "title": "A histological, histochemical and biochemical study of the macroscopically normal white matter in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "In a combined histological, biochemical and histochemical study of the macroscopically normal white matter in multipe sclerosis 72% of samples were histologically abnormal. The significance of this fact in the interpretation of previous biochemical studies and in the design of future studies is discussed. The present study showed a significant elevation of the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucosaminidase in the microscopically normal white matter in MS as compared with controls. Studies on lysosomes separated from microscopically normal or mild to moderately gliosed white matter in multiple sclerosis showed an increase in lysosomal fragility. Histochemical study of the microscopically normal white matter in multiple sclerosis revealed an increase in the number of acid phosphate-containing cells as compared with normal and neurological control material. The significance of these findings is discussed and it is suggested that irrespective of the primary or secondary nature of these abnormalities, the white matter may be rendered more susceptible to the pathogenetic process in this disease.", "contents": "A histological, histochemical and biochemical study of the macroscopically normal white matter in multiple sclerosis. In a combined histological, biochemical and histochemical study of the macroscopically normal white matter in multipe sclerosis 72% of samples were histologically abnormal. The significance of this fact in the interpretation of previous biochemical studies and in the design of future studies is discussed. The present study showed a significant elevation of the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucosaminidase in the microscopically normal white matter in MS as compared with controls. Studies on lysosomes separated from microscopically normal or mild to moderately gliosed white matter in multiple sclerosis showed an increase in lysosomal fragility. Histochemical study of the microscopically normal white matter in multiple sclerosis revealed an increase in the number of acid phosphate-containing cells as compared with normal and neurological control material. The significance of these findings is discussed and it is suggested that irrespective of the primary or secondary nature of these abnormalities, the white matter may be rendered more susceptible to the pathogenetic process in this disease.", "PMID": 438845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4294", "title": "Fatal lipid storage myopathy in an infant: case report and autopsy findings.", "content": "The clinical presentation, muscle biopsy appearances and autopsy findings in a male infant dying at the age of 13 weeks with a lipid storage myopathy are described. The primary metabolic abnormality was not elucidated but was thought not to be carnitine deficiency.", "contents": "Fatal lipid storage myopathy in an infant: case report and autopsy findings. The clinical presentation, muscle biopsy appearances and autopsy findings in a male infant dying at the age of 13 weeks with a lipid storage myopathy are described. The primary metabolic abnormality was not elucidated but was thought not to be carnitine deficiency.", "PMID": 438846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4295", "title": "Alcohol embryo- and fetopathy. Neuropathology of 3 children and 3 fetuses.", "content": "Maternal chronic ethanol abuse during pregnancy causes malformations of the offspring. Three children (aged 6 months, 9 months, 4 1/2 years) and 3 fetuses (17th, 18th, and 20th gestational week) showed a wide spectrum of disorders ranging from severe dysraphic state, arhinencephaly, porencephaly, agenesis of corpus callosum, a range from hydranencephaly to microdysplasias (p.e. reduced gyration of dentate nucleus and inferior olives), and a range from gastrochisis or congenital heart defects to craniofacial dysmorphogenesis and palmar crease anomalies. The patterns of the cerebral malformations were not as uniform as the clinical phenotype of the alcohol embryopathy. The observations did not support the assumption that there exists a specific period for alcohol teratogenicity.", "contents": "Alcohol embryo- and fetopathy. Neuropathology of 3 children and 3 fetuses. Maternal chronic ethanol abuse during pregnancy causes malformations of the offspring. Three children (aged 6 months, 9 months, 4 1/2 years) and 3 fetuses (17th, 18th, and 20th gestational week) showed a wide spectrum of disorders ranging from severe dysraphic state, arhinencephaly, porencephaly, agenesis of corpus callosum, a range from hydranencephaly to microdysplasias (p.e. reduced gyration of dentate nucleus and inferior olives), and a range from gastrochisis or congenital heart defects to craniofacial dysmorphogenesis and palmar crease anomalies. The patterns of the cerebral malformations were not as uniform as the clinical phenotype of the alcohol embryopathy. The observations did not support the assumption that there exists a specific period for alcohol teratogenicity.", "PMID": 438847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4296", "title": "Intranervous regeneration. The study of motor axon reflexes.", "content": "More than 1000 motor axon reflexes (ARs) have been studied. The AR often has a long latency and the first excited branch almost always has the fastest conduction velocity. Sometimes the potentials of the two branches are recorded at the same needle placement, giving the appearance in the EMG tracing of a coupling discharge. Stimulation of the axons in the muscle produces more ARs than stimulation of the nerve trunk. ARs are recorded in denervated muscles but never in normal subjects. All kinds of lower motor neuron lesions produce ARs. They are more frequent in the Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies where the axonal lesions are mainly located at the traditional sites of entrapment. The possibility of neurolysis in some of these cases has to be considered. Obstetrical brachial plexus palsies furnish many ARs linking two muscles, thus explaining the associated contractions in these cases.", "contents": "Intranervous regeneration. The study of motor axon reflexes. More than 1000 motor axon reflexes (ARs) have been studied. The AR often has a long latency and the first excited branch almost always has the fastest conduction velocity. Sometimes the potentials of the two branches are recorded at the same needle placement, giving the appearance in the EMG tracing of a coupling discharge. Stimulation of the axons in the muscle produces more ARs than stimulation of the nerve trunk. ARs are recorded in denervated muscles but never in normal subjects. All kinds of lower motor neuron lesions produce ARs. They are more frequent in the Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies where the axonal lesions are mainly located at the traditional sites of entrapment. The possibility of neurolysis in some of these cases has to be considered. Obstetrical brachial plexus palsies furnish many ARs linking two muscles, thus explaining the associated contractions in these cases.", "PMID": 438848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4297", "title": "Cellular responses to free grafting of the extensor digitorum longus muscle of the rat.", "content": "The cellular and subcellular responses related to the survival or destruction and subsequent regeneration of muscle fibers within the freely grafted extensor digitorum longus muscle of the rat were examined by light and electron microscopy. A small number of fibers at the periphery of the grafts survived the initial ischemia but underwent denervation changes and accumulated lipid deposits. The majority of fibers in the grafts, however, became ischemic and underwent an intrinsic degeneration within 4 hours. Cell-mediated destruction of the degenerating fibers occurred as the grafts became revascularized. The basal laminae and some of the satellite cells were the only elements of the original fibers that persisted. Regeneration began at the periphery of the graft within three days after grafting and reached the center about three days later. After phagocytosis of the original fibers, presumptive myoblasts within the grafts differentiated into myoblasts and myotubes. The formation of myotubes followed a biphasic pattern of development comparable to that of normal fetal muscle. Although most of the myotubes were formed within the basal lamina remaining from the original fiber, there was also evidence for regeneration outside the basal lamina. Myotubes matured into muscle fibers which were essentially normal in apperance when examined up to 180 days after grafting. Some fibers, however, were atrophic, presumably due to a failure to become innervated, and some fibers were joined by myo-myous junctions. Pre-denervated grafts and Marcaine-treated grafts were also examined. There were more surviving fibers in pre-denervated grafts, and cell-mediated destruction of degenerating fibers proceeded more rapidly than in normal grafts. No surviving fibers were found in Marcaine-treated grafts. The changes in these grafts were otherwise similar to normal grafts. A schematic model of the spatial and temporal sequence of degeneration and regeneration within a free muscle graft is presented.", "contents": "Cellular responses to free grafting of the extensor digitorum longus muscle of the rat. The cellular and subcellular responses related to the survival or destruction and subsequent regeneration of muscle fibers within the freely grafted extensor digitorum longus muscle of the rat were examined by light and electron microscopy. A small number of fibers at the periphery of the grafts survived the initial ischemia but underwent denervation changes and accumulated lipid deposits. The majority of fibers in the grafts, however, became ischemic and underwent an intrinsic degeneration within 4 hours. Cell-mediated destruction of the degenerating fibers occurred as the grafts became revascularized. The basal laminae and some of the satellite cells were the only elements of the original fibers that persisted. Regeneration began at the periphery of the graft within three days after grafting and reached the center about three days later. After phagocytosis of the original fibers, presumptive myoblasts within the grafts differentiated into myoblasts and myotubes. The formation of myotubes followed a biphasic pattern of development comparable to that of normal fetal muscle. Although most of the myotubes were formed within the basal lamina remaining from the original fiber, there was also evidence for regeneration outside the basal lamina. Myotubes matured into muscle fibers which were essentially normal in apperance when examined up to 180 days after grafting. Some fibers, however, were atrophic, presumably due to a failure to become innervated, and some fibers were joined by myo-myous junctions. Pre-denervated grafts and Marcaine-treated grafts were also examined. There were more surviving fibers in pre-denervated grafts, and cell-mediated destruction of degenerating fibers proceeded more rapidly than in normal grafts. No surviving fibers were found in Marcaine-treated grafts. The changes in these grafts were otherwise similar to normal grafts. A schematic model of the spatial and temporal sequence of degeneration and regeneration within a free muscle graft is presented.", "PMID": 438849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4298", "title": "Bulbocavernosus reflex in patients with conus medullaris and cauda equina lesions.", "content": "The clinical value and practical application of the electrically induced BC reflex was investigated in 40 patients with traumatic or compressive lesions of the conus medullaris or cauda equina. It was shown that the BC reflex was either absent or delayed depending upon the invovlement of the sacral 2--4 spinal and radicular segments. The latency of the BC reflex was normal in patients with mainly epiconus and lumbar cord involvement. The loss of the BC reflex in the acute period of traumatic lesions was an adverse prognostic sign while the presence of the reflex whether or not delayed, indicated a more benign final outcome of sphincter and sexual reflex disturbances. In chronic progressive compression, the latency of BC reflex was often delayed.", "contents": "Bulbocavernosus reflex in patients with conus medullaris and cauda equina lesions. The clinical value and practical application of the electrically induced BC reflex was investigated in 40 patients with traumatic or compressive lesions of the conus medullaris or cauda equina. It was shown that the BC reflex was either absent or delayed depending upon the invovlement of the sacral 2--4 spinal and radicular segments. The latency of the BC reflex was normal in patients with mainly epiconus and lumbar cord involvement. The loss of the BC reflex in the acute period of traumatic lesions was an adverse prognostic sign while the presence of the reflex whether or not delayed, indicated a more benign final outcome of sphincter and sexual reflex disturbances. In chronic progressive compression, the latency of BC reflex was often delayed.", "PMID": 438850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4299", "title": "Fatty acid activation and transfer in blood cells of patients with muscular dystrophy.", "content": "Two membrane-bound enzymes, concerned in repair of erythrocyte membranes, have been investigated in patients with muscular dystrophy. The activation of long-chain fatty acids is normal in erythrocytes from Duchenne patients, but increases two-fold in cells from myotonic dystrophy patients (congenital form). This alteration is not present in leucocytes. In all leucocytes tested palmitate was the preferred substrate while palmitoleate and linoleate were activated at a lower rate. In the erythrocytes the 3 fatty acids were activated at the same rate. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase was not significantly altered in erythrocytes of both groups of patients.", "contents": "Fatty acid activation and transfer in blood cells of patients with muscular dystrophy. Two membrane-bound enzymes, concerned in repair of erythrocyte membranes, have been investigated in patients with muscular dystrophy. The activation of long-chain fatty acids is normal in erythrocytes from Duchenne patients, but increases two-fold in cells from myotonic dystrophy patients (congenital form). This alteration is not present in leucocytes. In all leucocytes tested palmitate was the preferred substrate while palmitoleate and linoleate were activated at a lower rate. In the erythrocytes the 3 fatty acids were activated at the same rate. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase was not significantly altered in erythrocytes of both groups of patients.", "PMID": 438851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4300", "title": "Muscle carnitine deficiency. Genetic heterogeneity.", "content": "Two types of lipid storage myopathy have been associated with decreased content of carnitine in muscle. In \"muscle carnitine deficiency\", carnitine concentration is normal in serum, but reduced in muscle. In \"systemic carnitine deficiency\", apparently due to imparied synthesis of carnitine in the liver, carnitine content is low in both serum and muscle. We studied a woman with a corticosteroid-responsive, probably autosomal recessive, lipid storage myopathy. Carnitine therapy was ineffective and carnitine failed to correct the impaired fatty acid oxidation in muscle homogenates, in contrast to a previous case. Carnitine transport into skeletal muscle was normal. These observations suggest that ll cases of \"muscle carnitine deficiency are not the same.", "contents": "Muscle carnitine deficiency. Genetic heterogeneity. Two types of lipid storage myopathy have been associated with decreased content of carnitine in muscle. In \"muscle carnitine deficiency\", carnitine concentration is normal in serum, but reduced in muscle. In \"systemic carnitine deficiency\", apparently due to imparied synthesis of carnitine in the liver, carnitine content is low in both serum and muscle. We studied a woman with a corticosteroid-responsive, probably autosomal recessive, lipid storage myopathy. Carnitine therapy was ineffective and carnitine failed to correct the impaired fatty acid oxidation in muscle homogenates, in contrast to a previous case. Carnitine transport into skeletal muscle was normal. These observations suggest that ll cases of \"muscle carnitine deficiency are not the same.", "PMID": 438852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4301", "title": "Regional cerebral blood flow measured by 133Xe inhalation in tracheostomized and laryngectomized men and women.", "content": "The question of contamination of cerebral clearance curves utilized for measuring regional cerebral blood flow by radioactivity derived from the nasopharyngeal air passages following inhalation of 133Xe was tested in patients with chronic tracheostomy. The peak counts for head curves were 5--9% higher when 133Xe was inhaled via a face mask than when inhaled via the tracheal stoma. Calculated flow values using standard recommended start-fit-times were not significantly different between these two different methods. Present results indicate that neither overestimation of fast flow values due to contamination from rapid 133Xe washout recorded from the air passages nor the underestimation of slow flow due to contamination from 133Xe trapped in the air sinuses produced significant measurement errors. However, if earlier start-fit-times were used, flow values were artificially high, particularly for brain stem/cerebellar probes because of an initial rapid decline in the head desaturation curves due to an arterial peak believed to be derived from the basilar artery.", "contents": "Regional cerebral blood flow measured by 133Xe inhalation in tracheostomized and laryngectomized men and women. The question of contamination of cerebral clearance curves utilized for measuring regional cerebral blood flow by radioactivity derived from the nasopharyngeal air passages following inhalation of 133Xe was tested in patients with chronic tracheostomy. The peak counts for head curves were 5--9% higher when 133Xe was inhaled via a face mask than when inhaled via the tracheal stoma. Calculated flow values using standard recommended start-fit-times were not significantly different between these two different methods. Present results indicate that neither overestimation of fast flow values due to contamination from rapid 133Xe washout recorded from the air passages nor the underestimation of slow flow due to contamination from 133Xe trapped in the air sinuses produced significant measurement errors. However, if earlier start-fit-times were used, flow values were artificially high, particularly for brain stem/cerebellar probes because of an initial rapid decline in the head desaturation curves due to an arterial peak believed to be derived from the basilar artery.", "PMID": 438853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4302", "title": "Identification of glycosaminoglycans in nerve terminals.", "content": "Synaptosomes were prepared using sucrose and Ficoll density-gradient-centrifugation procedures. Extraction of lipid-free material from both preparations with guanidinium chloride together with papain treatment released hexuronic-containing fractions. The glycosaminoglycan fractions (C1, C2, and C3) were isolated after ion-exchange chromatography. Chemical studies identified fraction C1 as a chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan whereas fractions C2 and C3 were characterised as hyaluronic acid and heparan sulphate. The relative yields of glycosaminoglycans (as compared with brain mitochondria) strongly suggest that these macromolecules form an integral component of nerve endings. The possible role of glycosaminoglycans in synaptosomes is also discussed.", "contents": "Identification of glycosaminoglycans in nerve terminals. Synaptosomes were prepared using sucrose and Ficoll density-gradient-centrifugation procedures. Extraction of lipid-free material from both preparations with guanidinium chloride together with papain treatment released hexuronic-containing fractions. The glycosaminoglycan fractions (C1, C2, and C3) were isolated after ion-exchange chromatography. Chemical studies identified fraction C1 as a chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan whereas fractions C2 and C3 were characterised as hyaluronic acid and heparan sulphate. The relative yields of glycosaminoglycans (as compared with brain mitochondria) strongly suggest that these macromolecules form an integral component of nerve endings. The possible role of glycosaminoglycans in synaptosomes is also discussed.", "PMID": 438854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4303", "title": "[Effects of juxtafastigial stimulation on the rhythmic activity of Purkinje cells in harmaline-treated rats].", "content": "In the anaesthetized rat, harmaline induces an olivary activation which results in rhythmic complex-spike (CS) discharges of Purkinje cells (4--8/sec) in the vermian cortex. The temporal organization of the rhythmic CS activity was studied. While some Purkinje cells present long periods of continuous rhythmic activity, the rhythmic CS discharge of other cells is modulated by periodical suppression of activity, with a total cycle length of about 10 sec. This organization can be modified by electrical stimulation of the juxtafastigial region (JF). During periods without spontaneous rhythmical CS firing, single JF shocks produce a late reflex response (200--300 msec) of the Purkinje cells, which appears as a repetitive sequence of CS (up to 30) at the harmaline-like induced frequency. The response obtained is the same whether the electrical stimulus is single or given in succession at regular intervals; however, in order to obtain such an effect, the frequency of the JF stimulation has to be inferior to the rhythmic CS frequency produced by the drug. At a higher stimulation rate (10 c/sec, 3 sec) the JF-induced response of Purkinje cells is abolished and we observe the suppression--4 to 8 sec following stimulation - of any rhythmic CS activity. This experimental modulation of rhythmic activity of the Purkinje cells (inducement or suppression of the CS firing), controlled indirectly by the olivary system, reproduces the spontaneous fluctuations of the thythmicity under harmaline. A neurophysiological model is presented and the functional significance of the results is discussed.", "contents": "[Effects of juxtafastigial stimulation on the rhythmic activity of Purkinje cells in harmaline-treated rats]. In the anaesthetized rat, harmaline induces an olivary activation which results in rhythmic complex-spike (CS) discharges of Purkinje cells (4--8/sec) in the vermian cortex. The temporal organization of the rhythmic CS activity was studied. While some Purkinje cells present long periods of continuous rhythmic activity, the rhythmic CS discharge of other cells is modulated by periodical suppression of activity, with a total cycle length of about 10 sec. This organization can be modified by electrical stimulation of the juxtafastigial region (JF). During periods without spontaneous rhythmical CS firing, single JF shocks produce a late reflex response (200--300 msec) of the Purkinje cells, which appears as a repetitive sequence of CS (up to 30) at the harmaline-like induced frequency. The response obtained is the same whether the electrical stimulus is single or given in succession at regular intervals; however, in order to obtain such an effect, the frequency of the JF stimulation has to be inferior to the rhythmic CS frequency produced by the drug. At a higher stimulation rate (10 c/sec, 3 sec) the JF-induced response of Purkinje cells is abolished and we observe the suppression--4 to 8 sec following stimulation - of any rhythmic CS activity. This experimental modulation of rhythmic activity of the Purkinje cells (inducement or suppression of the CS firing), controlled indirectly by the olivary system, reproduces the spontaneous fluctuations of the thythmicity under harmaline. A neurophysiological model is presented and the functional significance of the results is discussed.", "PMID": 438855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4304", "title": "Morphometric quantification of the cervical limb motor cells in controls and in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.", "content": "The limb motor cells of the C6 segment of the spinal cord were counted and correlated with quantified histological findings of biceps brachii muscles in controls and in cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In 12 controls the motor cells were divided into larger ones with a minimum diameter greater than 20 micron, and smaller cells. Total numbers of the larger motor cells decreased significantly in 11 of 12 cases of ALS and of the smaller cells in 4 cases. In 4 controls most of the constituents of the biceps brachii muscle were normal-sized fibers, while in ALS smaller fibers and interstitial connective tissue increased and hypertrophic fibers decreased in association with a decrease of normal-sized fibers. The correlation coefficients between total numbers of the larger or smaller motor cells and normal-sized fibers in ALS were 0.92 and 0.65 respectively, and the larger motor cells, correlating with muscular atrophy of the upper arm, were considered to be alpha motor cells. Although in ALS the larger motor cells decreased almost diffusely, there were segmental variations, similar to controls, in numbers of the motor cells per 500 micron thickness.", "contents": "Morphometric quantification of the cervical limb motor cells in controls and in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The limb motor cells of the C6 segment of the spinal cord were counted and correlated with quantified histological findings of biceps brachii muscles in controls and in cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In 12 controls the motor cells were divided into larger ones with a minimum diameter greater than 20 micron, and smaller cells. Total numbers of the larger motor cells decreased significantly in 11 of 12 cases of ALS and of the smaller cells in 4 cases. In 4 controls most of the constituents of the biceps brachii muscle were normal-sized fibers, while in ALS smaller fibers and interstitial connective tissue increased and hypertrophic fibers decreased in association with a decrease of normal-sized fibers. The correlation coefficients between total numbers of the larger or smaller motor cells and normal-sized fibers in ALS were 0.92 and 0.65 respectively, and the larger motor cells, correlating with muscular atrophy of the upper arm, were considered to be alpha motor cells. Although in ALS the larger motor cells decreased almost diffusely, there were segmental variations, similar to controls, in numbers of the motor cells per 500 micron thickness.", "PMID": 438856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4305", "title": "Glycogen accumulation in the central nervous system in the cerebro-hepato-renal syndrome. Report of a case with ultrastructural studies.", "content": "We found marked accumulation of glycogen in the brain in one case of the cerebro-hepato-renal syndrome (CHRS). Glycogen in the form of beta-particles was deposited freely within the nucleus, perikaryon and cell processes of neurons and glial cells. The changes involved the gray matter diffusely but were more prominent in the cerebral cortex. The patient died at the age of 4 months after a clinical course characterized by severe hypotonia, seizures, and apneic episodes. Other neuropathologic findings were developmental malformations of the central nervous systen (CNS) (pachygyria, polymicrogyria, and hypoplasia of the inferior olives), white matter abnormalities (deficiency in myelination and diffuse accumulation of sudanophilic droplets within glial cells), clusters of peculiar \"globoid\" histiocytes with pleomorphic lipid inclusions, and microglial nodules in gray and white matter. This unusual combination of findings is regarded as characteristic of the CHRS.", "contents": "Glycogen accumulation in the central nervous system in the cerebro-hepato-renal syndrome. Report of a case with ultrastructural studies. We found marked accumulation of glycogen in the brain in one case of the cerebro-hepato-renal syndrome (CHRS). Glycogen in the form of beta-particles was deposited freely within the nucleus, perikaryon and cell processes of neurons and glial cells. The changes involved the gray matter diffusely but were more prominent in the cerebral cortex. The patient died at the age of 4 months after a clinical course characterized by severe hypotonia, seizures, and apneic episodes. Other neuropathologic findings were developmental malformations of the central nervous systen (CNS) (pachygyria, polymicrogyria, and hypoplasia of the inferior olives), white matter abnormalities (deficiency in myelination and diffuse accumulation of sudanophilic droplets within glial cells), clusters of peculiar \"globoid\" histiocytes with pleomorphic lipid inclusions, and microglial nodules in gray and white matter. This unusual combination of findings is regarded as characteristic of the CHRS.", "PMID": 438858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4306", "title": "[Paralysis of the 3d cranial nerves in diabetes and common oculomotor vascularization].", "content": "The purpose of this paper is to present explanations for various patterns of IIIrd cranial nerve involvement in diabetes mellitsus, based on its vascularisation. Three clinical cases of diabetes with numerous attacks of IIIrd nerve paralysis are reported. The following patterns were observed: (1) isolated; (2) associated with Vth nerve involvement and; (3) associated with invovlement of the Vth, IVth, VIth, and occasionally IInd and VIIth nerves. An anatomical study of IIIrd nerve vascularisation demonstrates three territories which could correspond to the 3 patterns of clinical expression. The arterial branches to the IIIrd nerve give off no collaterals in the posterior region of the circle of Willis. In the supra-cavernous region, vascularisation of the IIIrd nerve may be associated with that of the IVth. Eventually, vascularisation of the IIIrd nerve in the intracavernous region is associated with that of the Vth, IVth, VIth, and occasionally IInd and VIIth cranial nerves. Thus, a painless paralysis of the IIIrd nerve (isolated or associated only with an involvement of the IVth) would predictably be related to a vascular disturbance limited to the first or second portion of this nerve, whereas a painful paralysis of the IIIrd nerve, without or with associated involvement of other cranial nerves, would relate to a vascular distrubance in the intra-cavernous region. The anatomo-clinical relationships that have been presented: (1) support the vascular basis of IIIrd nerve paralysis in diabetes; (2) explain the various clinical patterns of IIIrd nerve involvement in that disorder and; (3) act as a model which can be applied to the study of ischemic pathology in other cranial nerves and other etiologies.", "contents": "[Paralysis of the 3d cranial nerves in diabetes and common oculomotor vascularization]. The purpose of this paper is to present explanations for various patterns of IIIrd cranial nerve involvement in diabetes mellitsus, based on its vascularisation. Three clinical cases of diabetes with numerous attacks of IIIrd nerve paralysis are reported. The following patterns were observed: (1) isolated; (2) associated with Vth nerve involvement and; (3) associated with invovlement of the Vth, IVth, VIth, and occasionally IInd and VIIth nerves. An anatomical study of IIIrd nerve vascularisation demonstrates three territories which could correspond to the 3 patterns of clinical expression. The arterial branches to the IIIrd nerve give off no collaterals in the posterior region of the circle of Willis. In the supra-cavernous region, vascularisation of the IIIrd nerve may be associated with that of the IVth. Eventually, vascularisation of the IIIrd nerve in the intracavernous region is associated with that of the Vth, IVth, VIth, and occasionally IInd and VIIth cranial nerves. Thus, a painless paralysis of the IIIrd nerve (isolated or associated only with an involvement of the IVth) would predictably be related to a vascular disturbance limited to the first or second portion of this nerve, whereas a painful paralysis of the IIIrd nerve, without or with associated involvement of other cranial nerves, would relate to a vascular distrubance in the intra-cavernous region. The anatomo-clinical relationships that have been presented: (1) support the vascular basis of IIIrd nerve paralysis in diabetes; (2) explain the various clinical patterns of IIIrd nerve involvement in that disorder and; (3) act as a model which can be applied to the study of ischemic pathology in other cranial nerves and other etiologies.", "PMID": 438859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4307", "title": "A longitudinal study of immunological parameters in multiple sclerosis. Cytotoxic antibodies.", "content": "Complement-dependent gliotoxic antibody activity was determined in 22 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 19 normal control persons. Peripheral blood serum was collected from MS patients at about 4-week intervals for one year, and the results of cytotoxicity tests correlated with the course of disease. For 10 MS patients with stable disease, complement-dependent cytotoxic antibodies directed against a noncytocidally infected mouse glial cell line (an as yet unidentified virus) were found in significantly higher than normal titer. For 12 MS patients with fluctuating clinical course, the gliotoxic antibody titer remained relatively constant before relapse. During relapse, the titer remained constant or dropped. With remission initially low titers increased appreciably.", "contents": "A longitudinal study of immunological parameters in multiple sclerosis. Cytotoxic antibodies. Complement-dependent gliotoxic antibody activity was determined in 22 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 19 normal control persons. Peripheral blood serum was collected from MS patients at about 4-week intervals for one year, and the results of cytotoxicity tests correlated with the course of disease. For 10 MS patients with stable disease, complement-dependent cytotoxic antibodies directed against a noncytocidally infected mouse glial cell line (an as yet unidentified virus) were found in significantly higher than normal titer. For 12 MS patients with fluctuating clinical course, the gliotoxic antibody titer remained relatively constant before relapse. During relapse, the titer remained constant or dropped. With remission initially low titers increased appreciably.", "PMID": 438860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4308", "title": "Distribution of adrenaline-synthesizing enzyme activity in the human brain.", "content": "A study of the distribution of phenylethanolamine-N-methyl-transferase (PNMT) activity in normal human brain is presented. After a preliminary dissection to separate brain tissue for formalin fixation and tissue designed for biochemical studies, the hemi-brain stem is cut in slices by hand and a cerebral hemisphere is cut on a cyromicrotome. \"Punches\" are made with an operating microscope. The dissection method was used to study the distribution of PNMT activity in 117 \"punches\" made on 21 slices obtained from 5 normal human brains. The caudo-rostral distribution of PNMT activity in C1 and C2 groups was found to be identical in each brain. The distribution of PNMT activity was found to be similar to that in the rat, but, in addition, important activity was found in the substantia nigra, internal pallidium and nucleus accumbens.", "contents": "Distribution of adrenaline-synthesizing enzyme activity in the human brain. A study of the distribution of phenylethanolamine-N-methyl-transferase (PNMT) activity in normal human brain is presented. After a preliminary dissection to separate brain tissue for formalin fixation and tissue designed for biochemical studies, the hemi-brain stem is cut in slices by hand and a cerebral hemisphere is cut on a cyromicrotome. \"Punches\" are made with an operating microscope. The dissection method was used to study the distribution of PNMT activity in 117 \"punches\" made on 21 slices obtained from 5 normal human brains. The caudo-rostral distribution of PNMT activity in C1 and C2 groups was found to be identical in each brain. The distribution of PNMT activity was found to be similar to that in the rat, but, in addition, important activity was found in the substantia nigra, internal pallidium and nucleus accumbens.", "PMID": 438861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4309", "title": "Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy.", "content": "Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy is a newly recognized motor neuron disease occurring in Brittany Spaniels. The clinical manifestations, pattern of inheritance, electrodiagnostic findings, and muscle biopsies have features in common with human spinal muscular atrophy. Neuropathological examination discloses some loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem. Many of the surviving motor neurons have neurofibrillary swellings in proximal axons, an abnormality similar to that which occurs early in the course of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These axonal swellings are filled with maloriented skeins of neurofilaments. Since the proteins comprising neurofilaments are carried by slow axonal transport, their accumulation within axons suggest that the swellings may result from impaired slow transport, a hypothesis that can be tested in affected Brittany Spaniels. Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy is a new genetic, clinical, and pathological entity, and, at present, it appears to be the best currently available animal model of motor neuron disease.", "contents": "Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy. Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy is a newly recognized motor neuron disease occurring in Brittany Spaniels. The clinical manifestations, pattern of inheritance, electrodiagnostic findings, and muscle biopsies have features in common with human spinal muscular atrophy. Neuropathological examination discloses some loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem. Many of the surviving motor neurons have neurofibrillary swellings in proximal axons, an abnormality similar to that which occurs early in the course of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These axonal swellings are filled with maloriented skeins of neurofilaments. Since the proteins comprising neurofilaments are carried by slow axonal transport, their accumulation within axons suggest that the swellings may result from impaired slow transport, a hypothesis that can be tested in affected Brittany Spaniels. Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy is a new genetic, clinical, and pathological entity, and, at present, it appears to be the best currently available animal model of motor neuron disease.", "PMID": 438862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4310", "title": "Early and late mechanisms of increased vascular permeability following experimental cerebral infarction.", "content": "Cerebral infarction was produced in rats by a combination of transient unilateral common carotid artery occlusion and systemic hypoxia. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and Evans blue were given 5 minutes prior to sacrifice to assess the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) at 1 minute, 30 minutes, and 2 hours following the ischemic insult. There was immediate permeability to HRP in the early (1 minute and 30 minutes) post-ischemic period, whereas, Evans blue was not seen until the late (1.5 to 2 hours) post-ischemic period. Ultrastructural examination showed two routes of barrier permeability to HRP. In the early post-ischemic period, HRP was transported by pinocytosis through endothelial cells in areas of brain containing ischemic neurons. In the late post-ischemic period, HRP diffusely leaked into the brain through the necrotic walls of vessels in areas of infarction. In contrast to previous reports, these results show that the BBB becomes permeable immediately following hypoxia-ischemia. In addition, this study shows that BBB permeability to HRP during cerebral ischemia occurs through two mechanisms: an active, energy-requiring permeability through enhanced pinocytosis within endothelial cells and a passive leakage of protein tracers through necrotic vessel walls.", "contents": "Early and late mechanisms of increased vascular permeability following experimental cerebral infarction. Cerebral infarction was produced in rats by a combination of transient unilateral common carotid artery occlusion and systemic hypoxia. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and Evans blue were given 5 minutes prior to sacrifice to assess the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) at 1 minute, 30 minutes, and 2 hours following the ischemic insult. There was immediate permeability to HRP in the early (1 minute and 30 minutes) post-ischemic period, whereas, Evans blue was not seen until the late (1.5 to 2 hours) post-ischemic period. Ultrastructural examination showed two routes of barrier permeability to HRP. In the early post-ischemic period, HRP was transported by pinocytosis through endothelial cells in areas of brain containing ischemic neurons. In the late post-ischemic period, HRP diffusely leaked into the brain through the necrotic walls of vessels in areas of infarction. In contrast to previous reports, these results show that the BBB becomes permeable immediately following hypoxia-ischemia. In addition, this study shows that BBB permeability to HRP during cerebral ischemia occurs through two mechanisms: an active, energy-requiring permeability through enhanced pinocytosis within endothelial cells and a passive leakage of protein tracers through necrotic vessel walls.", "PMID": 438863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4311", "title": "Phagocytic astrocytes and neurons in old encephalomalacia.", "content": "Cytoplasmic accumulation of hemosiderin was observed within astrocytes and neurons as well as in other phagocytes associated with old encephalomalacia. The first patient was 3 years old when she died with malnutrition and superimposed infection. A cortical infarct had been caused by an old thrombus in a small artery. The second case was a 9-year-old girl who had old encephalomalacia in the pineal region after extirpation of a pineoloma. The third patient was a 22-year-old man who had a cortical infarct from an embolus associated with chronic rheumatic endocarditis. Granules of hemosiderin had accumulated within the perikaryon of many astrocytes and other phagocytes in all cases, and in a few neurons in the second instance. Review of the literature reveals that cytoplasmic accumulation of particulate matter has been described infrequently with regard to neuroepithelial derivatives. Our findings indicate that astrocytes and neurons as well as derivations of mesenchyme may act as phagocytes of old blood.", "contents": "Phagocytic astrocytes and neurons in old encephalomalacia. Cytoplasmic accumulation of hemosiderin was observed within astrocytes and neurons as well as in other phagocytes associated with old encephalomalacia. The first patient was 3 years old when she died with malnutrition and superimposed infection. A cortical infarct had been caused by an old thrombus in a small artery. The second case was a 9-year-old girl who had old encephalomalacia in the pineal region after extirpation of a pineoloma. The third patient was a 22-year-old man who had a cortical infarct from an embolus associated with chronic rheumatic endocarditis. Granules of hemosiderin had accumulated within the perikaryon of many astrocytes and other phagocytes in all cases, and in a few neurons in the second instance. Review of the literature reveals that cytoplasmic accumulation of particulate matter has been described infrequently with regard to neuroepithelial derivatives. Our findings indicate that astrocytes and neurons as well as derivations of mesenchyme may act as phagocytes of old blood.", "PMID": 438864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4312", "title": "The persistence and possible externalization of axonal debris during Wallerian degeneration.", "content": "The sequence of changes in transected rat sciatic nerves were subjected to parallel ultrastructural and biochemical studies. Widespread granular disintegration of axoplasmic microtubules and neurofilaments occurred in the 24--72 hour interval following nerve transection. These changes were associated with a loss of neurofilament proteins and a marked enhancement of 53,000, 70--73,000 and 85,000 MW proteins in transected nerve. The emergence of prominent nerve proteins during the aftermath of axonal degeneration supports their derivation from axonal sources. These three proteins remained prominent components in transected nerves and comprised the major proteins found in 34-day transected nerves. Amorphous granular breakdown products from myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers were encountered with progressively decreasing frequency after 48 hours. This diminution of intracellular axonal debris was accompanied by the appearance and increasing prominence of amorphous granular deposits within the endoneurium of transected nerves. These endoneurial deposits became closely associated with collagen fibers and persisted as a prominent component in 34-, 80- and 120-day transected nerves. It is suggested that the amorphous endoneurial granular deposits arise in part from the externalization of granular axoplasmic breakdown products. Externalized axonal components could have important implications for tissue reaction to injury.", "contents": "The persistence and possible externalization of axonal debris during Wallerian degeneration. The sequence of changes in transected rat sciatic nerves were subjected to parallel ultrastructural and biochemical studies. Widespread granular disintegration of axoplasmic microtubules and neurofilaments occurred in the 24--72 hour interval following nerve transection. These changes were associated with a loss of neurofilament proteins and a marked enhancement of 53,000, 70--73,000 and 85,000 MW proteins in transected nerve. The emergence of prominent nerve proteins during the aftermath of axonal degeneration supports their derivation from axonal sources. These three proteins remained prominent components in transected nerves and comprised the major proteins found in 34-day transected nerves. Amorphous granular breakdown products from myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers were encountered with progressively decreasing frequency after 48 hours. This diminution of intracellular axonal debris was accompanied by the appearance and increasing prominence of amorphous granular deposits within the endoneurium of transected nerves. These endoneurial deposits became closely associated with collagen fibers and persisted as a prominent component in 34-, 80- and 120-day transected nerves. It is suggested that the amorphous endoneurial granular deposits arise in part from the externalization of granular axoplasmic breakdown products. Externalized axonal components could have important implications for tissue reaction to injury.", "PMID": 438865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4313", "title": "Pineocytoma with astrocytomatous differentiation.", "content": "A pineocytoma with astrocytomatous differentiation in a 57-year-old man is reported. The histogenetic and oncogenetic implications of this neoplasm are briefly discussed.", "contents": "Pineocytoma with astrocytomatous differentiation. A pineocytoma with astrocytomatous differentiation in a 57-year-old man is reported. The histogenetic and oncogenetic implications of this neoplasm are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 438866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4314", "title": "Neurogenesis and neuron regeneration in the olfactory system of mammals. I. Morphological aspects of differentiation and structural organization of the olfactory sensory neurons.", "content": "The neurogenetic process leading to the formation of primary sensory neurons persists into adult life in the olfactory epithelium of mammals. The morphological stages of maturation and ageing of this exceptional neuron have been described both at light and electron microscopical levels. For descriptive purposes the neural elements have been classified as: (1) basal cells proper, (2) globose basal cells, and (3) neurons. Intermediate stages, however, have been identified. Autoradiographic observations complement the morphological studies and provide a time sequence of the morphological stages leading to the mature neurons. A typical columnar arrangement of the sensory neurons has been described. Furthermore, active and quiescent zones have been recognized in the neuroepithelium. In the active zones the neurogenetic process is vigorous, and the zones are characterized by the presence of immature elements. However, in the quiescent zones there exists a population of mature elements while immature neurons are sparse.", "contents": "Neurogenesis and neuron regeneration in the olfactory system of mammals. I. Morphological aspects of differentiation and structural organization of the olfactory sensory neurons. The neurogenetic process leading to the formation of primary sensory neurons persists into adult life in the olfactory epithelium of mammals. The morphological stages of maturation and ageing of this exceptional neuron have been described both at light and electron microscopical levels. For descriptive purposes the neural elements have been classified as: (1) basal cells proper, (2) globose basal cells, and (3) neurons. Intermediate stages, however, have been identified. Autoradiographic observations complement the morphological studies and provide a time sequence of the morphological stages leading to the mature neurons. A typical columnar arrangement of the sensory neurons has been described. Furthermore, active and quiescent zones have been recognized in the neuroepithelium. In the active zones the neurogenetic process is vigorous, and the zones are characterized by the presence of immature elements. However, in the quiescent zones there exists a population of mature elements while immature neurons are sparse.", "PMID": 438867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4315", "title": "An ultrastructural study of transganglionic degeneration in the main sensory trigeminal nucleus of the rat.", "content": "In adult rats subjected to unilateral transection of the infraorbital nerve, the main sensory trigeminal nucleus was studied by electron microscopy. Post-operative survival times varied between 2 and 60 days. A variety of ultrastructural alterations was observed from the sixth post-operative day onwards. These changes were in many respects similar to those seen in the course of Wallerian degeneration. Neurofilamentous boutons and axons were found 6-30 days post-operatively. Various types of dark boutons were observed between 7 and 30 days and axonal changes indicative of degeneration between 7 and 60 days post-operatively. Astrocytes and microglial cells contained degenerating structures 7-60 days post-operatively. The alterations observed in the present study are interpreted as related, at least in part, to the nerve cell degeneration and the nerve cell death previously shown to occur in the trigeminal ganglion after infraorbital nerve transection.", "contents": "An ultrastructural study of transganglionic degeneration in the main sensory trigeminal nucleus of the rat. In adult rats subjected to unilateral transection of the infraorbital nerve, the main sensory trigeminal nucleus was studied by electron microscopy. Post-operative survival times varied between 2 and 60 days. A variety of ultrastructural alterations was observed from the sixth post-operative day onwards. These changes were in many respects similar to those seen in the course of Wallerian degeneration. Neurofilamentous boutons and axons were found 6-30 days post-operatively. Various types of dark boutons were observed between 7 and 30 days and axonal changes indicative of degeneration between 7 and 60 days post-operatively. Astrocytes and microglial cells contained degenerating structures 7-60 days post-operatively. The alterations observed in the present study are interpreted as related, at least in part, to the nerve cell degeneration and the nerve cell death previously shown to occur in the trigeminal ganglion after infraorbital nerve transection.", "PMID": 438868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4316", "title": "Paramembranous densities of 'C' terminal-motoneuron synapses in the spinal cord of the rat.", "content": "A category of large boutons forming synapses with the soma and proximal dendrites of spinal motoneurons was studied in glutaraldehyde-fixed, non-osmicated tissue stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. The identity of these boutons with 'C' boutons was indicated by their shape, frequency and distribution as well as by the ultrastructural characteristics of the boutons and the associated postsynaptic structures. In contrast to previous descriptions based on osmicated tissue, this study demonstrates that paramembranous densities are a feature of 'C' terminal-motoneuron synapses.", "contents": "Paramembranous densities of 'C' terminal-motoneuron synapses in the spinal cord of the rat. A category of large boutons forming synapses with the soma and proximal dendrites of spinal motoneurons was studied in glutaraldehyde-fixed, non-osmicated tissue stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. The identity of these boutons with 'C' boutons was indicated by their shape, frequency and distribution as well as by the ultrastructural characteristics of the boutons and the associated postsynaptic structures. In contrast to previous descriptions based on osmicated tissue, this study demonstrates that paramembranous densities are a feature of 'C' terminal-motoneuron synapses.", "PMID": 438869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4317", "title": "Electron microscopic localization of [125I]alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites in the outer plexiform layer of the goldfish retina.", "content": "Light and electron microscope autoradiography were performed on goldfish (Carassius auratus) retinas incubated in [125I]labelled alpha-bungarotoxin. The toxin was bound preferentially to membrane receptors in the inner and outer plexiform layers. Binding was suppressed by 10(-5) M nicotine or 10(-5) M native alpha-bungarotoxin. Electron microscopic analysis of the outer plexiform layer (OPL) strongly suggested that alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites were located on small bipolar cell dendritic processes that invaginated rod and cone synaptic terminals, and on large bipolar cell dendritic processes more proximally situated in the OPL. Large horizontal cell processes in the OPL and horizontal cell processes that invaginated rod and cone synaptic terminals did not appear to be labelled.", "contents": "Electron microscopic localization of [125I]alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites in the outer plexiform layer of the goldfish retina. Light and electron microscope autoradiography were performed on goldfish (Carassius auratus) retinas incubated in [125I]labelled alpha-bungarotoxin. The toxin was bound preferentially to membrane receptors in the inner and outer plexiform layers. Binding was suppressed by 10(-5) M nicotine or 10(-5) M native alpha-bungarotoxin. Electron microscopic analysis of the outer plexiform layer (OPL) strongly suggested that alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites were located on small bipolar cell dendritic processes that invaginated rod and cone synaptic terminals, and on large bipolar cell dendritic processes more proximally situated in the OPL. Large horizontal cell processes in the OPL and horizontal cell processes that invaginated rod and cone synaptic terminals did not appear to be labelled.", "PMID": 438870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4318", "title": "Location of interganglionic neurons in the stomatogastric system of the spiny lobster.", "content": "The stomatogastric ganglion produces distinct and complex patterned output driving the mastication and filtration of food. It does so with a small number of neurons whose properties and interconnections have been extensively examined. The motor patterns are subject to modulation and integration by neurons of other ganglia. This paper reports a search for interneurons of the four interconnecting ganglia of this system, using cobalt chloride backfilling techniques. It was determined that only a small number of neurons may interconnect these ganglia: (1) In the stomatogastric ganglion there are two to three small neurons and six large neurons with neurites projecting anteriorly towards the other ganglia. (2) In the two commissural ganglia there are one to three small neurons whose neurites project to the primary input nerve of the stomatogastric ganglion. (3) In the oesophageal ganglion there are three small neurons whose location would allow them to play a co-ordinating role in the output of all four ganglia.", "contents": "Location of interganglionic neurons in the stomatogastric system of the spiny lobster. The stomatogastric ganglion produces distinct and complex patterned output driving the mastication and filtration of food. It does so with a small number of neurons whose properties and interconnections have been extensively examined. The motor patterns are subject to modulation and integration by neurons of other ganglia. This paper reports a search for interneurons of the four interconnecting ganglia of this system, using cobalt chloride backfilling techniques. It was determined that only a small number of neurons may interconnect these ganglia: (1) In the stomatogastric ganglion there are two to three small neurons and six large neurons with neurites projecting anteriorly towards the other ganglia. (2) In the two commissural ganglia there are one to three small neurons whose neurites project to the primary input nerve of the stomatogastric ganglion. (3) In the oesophageal ganglion there are three small neurons whose location would allow them to play a co-ordinating role in the output of all four ganglia.", "PMID": 438871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4319", "title": "Endplates after esterase inactivation in vivo: correlation between esterase concentration, functional response and fine structure.", "content": "Mouse sternomastoid muscles were incubated with diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) in vivo, and the time course of recovery was studied using histochemistry, EM autoradiography and physiology. We found that: (1) the ability of the muscle to sustain tetanus in response to nerve stimulation is eliminated when the esterases at the neuromuscular junctions are saturated with DFP. This ability is regained partially when less than 10% of the DFP-binding sites have recovered. (2) There is a positive correlation between the frequency of stimulation at which the tetanic response can be maintained and the extent of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) recovery. (3) Tetanic responses at fusion frequency (about 100 Hz) appear indistinguishable from controls with only about 25% of normal AChE. (4) Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) possibly of Schwann cell origin recovers more rapidly than does AChE. (5) The muscle shows fine structural changes involving Z band dissolution and the breakdown of sarcoplasmic reticulum within hours after esterase inactivation. (6) This myopathy reaches a peak at three days after esterase inactivation and is almost fully recovered by two weeks. (7) It can be eliminated if, at the time of esterase inactivation, the nerve is cut or the acetylcholine receptors at the endplate are inactivated by alpha-bungarotoxin. We suggest that the myopathy, seen after DFP, is mediated by Ca2+ fluxes due to prolonged action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the absence of esterases.", "contents": "Endplates after esterase inactivation in vivo: correlation between esterase concentration, functional response and fine structure. Mouse sternomastoid muscles were incubated with diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) in vivo, and the time course of recovery was studied using histochemistry, EM autoradiography and physiology. We found that: (1) the ability of the muscle to sustain tetanus in response to nerve stimulation is eliminated when the esterases at the neuromuscular junctions are saturated with DFP. This ability is regained partially when less than 10% of the DFP-binding sites have recovered. (2) There is a positive correlation between the frequency of stimulation at which the tetanic response can be maintained and the extent of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) recovery. (3) Tetanic responses at fusion frequency (about 100 Hz) appear indistinguishable from controls with only about 25% of normal AChE. (4) Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) possibly of Schwann cell origin recovers more rapidly than does AChE. (5) The muscle shows fine structural changes involving Z band dissolution and the breakdown of sarcoplasmic reticulum within hours after esterase inactivation. (6) This myopathy reaches a peak at three days after esterase inactivation and is almost fully recovered by two weeks. (7) It can be eliminated if, at the time of esterase inactivation, the nerve is cut or the acetylcholine receptors at the endplate are inactivated by alpha-bungarotoxin. We suggest that the myopathy, seen after DFP, is mediated by Ca2+ fluxes due to prolonged action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the absence of esterases.", "PMID": 438872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4320", "title": "Chemotherapy as an adjunct in the initial management of cerebellar medulloblastomas. A preliminary report.", "content": "Eight consecutive children with biopsy-proven cerebellar medulloblastoma were treated with a combination of whole neuraxis radiation and prolonged chemotherapy using vincristine and cyclophosphamide. There was no evidence of tumor recurrence in the follow-up period, which ranged from 16 months to 7 years and 8 months following diagnosis. Morbidity associated with this regimen has been infrequent and easily reversible.", "contents": "Chemotherapy as an adjunct in the initial management of cerebellar medulloblastomas. A preliminary report. Eight consecutive children with biopsy-proven cerebellar medulloblastoma were treated with a combination of whole neuraxis radiation and prolonged chemotherapy using vincristine and cyclophosphamide. There was no evidence of tumor recurrence in the follow-up period, which ranged from 16 months to 7 years and 8 months following diagnosis. Morbidity associated with this regimen has been infrequent and easily reversible.", "PMID": 438873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4321", "title": "Reconstitution of \"totally\" occluded internal carotid arteries: angiographic and technical considerations.", "content": "The authors describe their experiences with five patients with delayed transient ischemic symptoms homolateral to internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusions. In each instance, initial arteriograms were interpreted as showing irreversible occlusions of these arteries in the neck and microvascular bypass procedures were contemplated. However, after repeat arteriographic evaluations with a modified injection technique, certain angiographic features were identified that suggested the mechanism of the symptoms in these patients and that their ICA's could be reconstituted in the neck. This was successfully accomplished in each patient with complete relief of ischemic symptoms. The angiographic technique employed and the arterial flow patterns identified in these patients are discussed. The details of the operative technique are described. It is concluded that routine arteriographic techniques may be inadequate to identify the reversible carotid occlusion. This may account for some of the confusion which surrounds the surgery of these vessels as well as the failure of extracranial-intracranial bypass to relieve recurrent ischemic symptoms in these individuals.", "contents": "Reconstitution of \"totally\" occluded internal carotid arteries: angiographic and technical considerations. The authors describe their experiences with five patients with delayed transient ischemic symptoms homolateral to internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusions. In each instance, initial arteriograms were interpreted as showing irreversible occlusions of these arteries in the neck and microvascular bypass procedures were contemplated. However, after repeat arteriographic evaluations with a modified injection technique, certain angiographic features were identified that suggested the mechanism of the symptoms in these patients and that their ICA's could be reconstituted in the neck. This was successfully accomplished in each patient with complete relief of ischemic symptoms. The angiographic technique employed and the arterial flow patterns identified in these patients are discussed. The details of the operative technique are described. It is concluded that routine arteriographic techniques may be inadequate to identify the reversible carotid occlusion. This may account for some of the confusion which surrounds the surgery of these vessels as well as the failure of extracranial-intracranial bypass to relieve recurrent ischemic symptoms in these individuals.", "PMID": 438875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4322", "title": "Nonvolumetric methods of detecting impaired intracranial compliance or reactivity: pulse width and wave form analysis.", "content": "The authors have attempted to find a clinically reliable method of measuring intracranial pressure (ICP) compliance or reactivity that does not require volumetric manipulation. An analysis was undertaken of ICP, pulse widths and of the presence or absence of B waves, both experimentally in dogs and clinically in postoperative human patients. In both dogs and humans, ICP pulse width generally increased with increasing ICP and with increasing intracranial mass, and definitely increased with systolic arterial blood pressure. Nonetheless, ICP pulse width commonly failed to increase with increasing cerebral reactivity, and low ICP pulse width measurements were at times recorded in distinctly pathological situations. From the clinical study it was found that B waves were encountered more commonly in patients with increased ICP or increased ICP pulse width. However, the correlation between B waves alone or in combination with increased ICP or ICP pulse width and quantitative measurements of ICP reactivity was not significant. Mean reactivity and the range of reactivity measurements were almost identical in patient groups with and without B waves. For the time being the \"ICP reserve test\" remains the most accurate, the safest, and the most clinically useful method of quantitating ICP reserve.", "contents": "Nonvolumetric methods of detecting impaired intracranial compliance or reactivity: pulse width and wave form analysis. The authors have attempted to find a clinically reliable method of measuring intracranial pressure (ICP) compliance or reactivity that does not require volumetric manipulation. An analysis was undertaken of ICP, pulse widths and of the presence or absence of B waves, both experimentally in dogs and clinically in postoperative human patients. In both dogs and humans, ICP pulse width generally increased with increasing ICP and with increasing intracranial mass, and definitely increased with systolic arterial blood pressure. Nonetheless, ICP pulse width commonly failed to increase with increasing cerebral reactivity, and low ICP pulse width measurements were at times recorded in distinctly pathological situations. From the clinical study it was found that B waves were encountered more commonly in patients with increased ICP or increased ICP pulse width. However, the correlation between B waves alone or in combination with increased ICP or ICP pulse width and quantitative measurements of ICP reactivity was not significant. Mean reactivity and the range of reactivity measurements were almost identical in patient groups with and without B waves. For the time being the \"ICP reserve test\" remains the most accurate, the safest, and the most clinically useful method of quantitating ICP reserve.", "PMID": 438876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4323", "title": "Pulmonary shunt as a prognostic indicator in head injury.", "content": "Severe head injury may cause momentary respiratory arrest. Resultant hypoxia would increase cerebral edema and adversely affect the quality of survival. This study examines the effect of hypoxemia on outcome. Pulmonary shunt was calculated as a convenient measurement of respiratory insufficiency in 86 severely head-injured patients who underwent surgery. All samples were taken shortly after induction into anesthesia when controlled ventilation with high inspired-oxygen concentration had been established. In 39 patients who improved, mean pulmonary shunt was 8.9%. Twelve patients who survived with deficit showed a mean shunt of 13.6%, and in 35 patients who died, the mean initial shunt was 15.6%. No significant correlation was found between abnormal chest x-ray findings or the occurrence of hypertension and shunt percentage. The American Society of Anesthesiologists at-risk classification correlated grossly with the outcome. Early pulmonary shunt is a prognostic indicator in severe head injury and should be used in conjunction with the Glasgow Coma Scale in assessing outcome. Despite an apparently adequate respiratory pattern, all patients with severe head injury must be assumed to be hypoxic until proven otherwise. While hypoxemia may prove to be refractory in overwhelming injury, patients who score low on the Glasgow Coma Scale but who have relatively normal oxygen exchange may still survive with little deficit.", "contents": "Pulmonary shunt as a prognostic indicator in head injury. Severe head injury may cause momentary respiratory arrest. Resultant hypoxia would increase cerebral edema and adversely affect the quality of survival. This study examines the effect of hypoxemia on outcome. Pulmonary shunt was calculated as a convenient measurement of respiratory insufficiency in 86 severely head-injured patients who underwent surgery. All samples were taken shortly after induction into anesthesia when controlled ventilation with high inspired-oxygen concentration had been established. In 39 patients who improved, mean pulmonary shunt was 8.9%. Twelve patients who survived with deficit showed a mean shunt of 13.6%, and in 35 patients who died, the mean initial shunt was 15.6%. No significant correlation was found between abnormal chest x-ray findings or the occurrence of hypertension and shunt percentage. The American Society of Anesthesiologists at-risk classification correlated grossly with the outcome. Early pulmonary shunt is a prognostic indicator in severe head injury and should be used in conjunction with the Glasgow Coma Scale in assessing outcome. Despite an apparently adequate respiratory pattern, all patients with severe head injury must be assumed to be hypoxic until proven otherwise. While hypoxemia may prove to be refractory in overwhelming injury, patients who score low on the Glasgow Coma Scale but who have relatively normal oxygen exchange may still survive with little deficit.", "PMID": 438877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4324", "title": "Results of urinary diversion in patients with myelomeningocele.", "content": "Among 481 children with myelomeningocele seen at the North Carolina Baptist Hospital since 1949, 46 have undergone a urinary diversion procedure, as follows: ileal loop in 43; sigmoid loop in two; and transverse colon conduit in one. The indications for diversion were incontinence in 28, urinary infection or pyelonephritis in 27, and hydronephrosis, pyelocaliectasis, and reflux in 12 patients. No deaths resulted from the diversionary procedures. One patient required early surgical revision and seven patients required late surgical revision. Two patients have since died, 44 have been followed for an average of 7.9 years, 15 for more than 10 years. Overall, of 26 patients with normal prediversionary intravenous pyelograms (IVP's), 88% now have normal or nearly normal IVP's; of 14 patients with abnormal prediversionary IVP's, 79% now have normal, improved, or unaltered IVP's. Renal function has remained normal in all 44 patients, and renal calculi have developed in 10 patients. Ileal loop diversion appears to convert a high-pressure system into a low-pressure system, thereby helping to prevent further renal damage. This procedure tends to stabilize, rather than improve, urinary-tract function. For these children already so incapacitated by their basic disease, this goal is acceptable, particularly since it also provides continence and independence from parental nursing.", "contents": "Results of urinary diversion in patients with myelomeningocele. Among 481 children with myelomeningocele seen at the North Carolina Baptist Hospital since 1949, 46 have undergone a urinary diversion procedure, as follows: ileal loop in 43; sigmoid loop in two; and transverse colon conduit in one. The indications for diversion were incontinence in 28, urinary infection or pyelonephritis in 27, and hydronephrosis, pyelocaliectasis, and reflux in 12 patients. No deaths resulted from the diversionary procedures. One patient required early surgical revision and seven patients required late surgical revision. Two patients have since died, 44 have been followed for an average of 7.9 years, 15 for more than 10 years. Overall, of 26 patients with normal prediversionary intravenous pyelograms (IVP's), 88% now have normal or nearly normal IVP's; of 14 patients with abnormal prediversionary IVP's, 79% now have normal, improved, or unaltered IVP's. Renal function has remained normal in all 44 patients, and renal calculi have developed in 10 patients. Ileal loop diversion appears to convert a high-pressure system into a low-pressure system, thereby helping to prevent further renal damage. This procedure tends to stabilize, rather than improve, urinary-tract function. For these children already so incapacitated by their basic disease, this goal is acceptable, particularly since it also provides continence and independence from parental nursing.", "PMID": 438878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4325", "title": "Analysis and measurement of some sources of variability in experimental spinal cord trauma.", "content": "Experiments were performed on anesthetized cats to determine whether the variability that is common in experimental spinal cord injuries produced by the weight-drop technique can be reduced if a more accurate determination of the actual intensity of the insult to the cord is measured. In addition, determinations of the contribution of such variables as mass of drop-weight, impounder diameter, and animal weight to variability were made. It was found that of the three measures of intensity readily available from a strain gauge transducer, impulse (change in momentum of drop-weight) showed the highest correlation with the histologically determined extent of the lesion. It was shown that the mass of the drop-weight had a significant effect on lesion size even when the gram X centimeter quantification of the injury was constant. Animal weight and impounder diameter did not make a significant contribution to the variability of injury as determined by low-power microscopy.", "contents": "Analysis and measurement of some sources of variability in experimental spinal cord trauma. Experiments were performed on anesthetized cats to determine whether the variability that is common in experimental spinal cord injuries produced by the weight-drop technique can be reduced if a more accurate determination of the actual intensity of the insult to the cord is measured. In addition, determinations of the contribution of such variables as mass of drop-weight, impounder diameter, and animal weight to variability were made. It was found that of the three measures of intensity readily available from a strain gauge transducer, impulse (change in momentum of drop-weight) showed the highest correlation with the histologically determined extent of the lesion. It was shown that the mass of the drop-weight had a significant effect on lesion size even when the gram X centimeter quantification of the injury was constant. Animal weight and impounder diameter did not make a significant contribution to the variability of injury as determined by low-power microscopy.", "PMID": 438880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4326", "title": "Paraplegia due to posttraumatic pelvic arteriovenous fistula treated by surgery and embolization. Case report.", "content": "A case is presented in which a posttraumatic pelvic arteriovenous fistula caused progressive paraplegia because of voluminous shunting into the epidural venous system. Surgical ligation and transcatheter embolization of major and minor arterial feeders decreased shunt flow sufficiently to permit direct embolization of the fistula by an injectable plastic. This combined approach may allow obliteration of unresectable acquired or congenital arteriovenous malformations.", "contents": "Paraplegia due to posttraumatic pelvic arteriovenous fistula treated by surgery and embolization. Case report. A case is presented in which a posttraumatic pelvic arteriovenous fistula caused progressive paraplegia because of voluminous shunting into the epidural venous system. Surgical ligation and transcatheter embolization of major and minor arterial feeders decreased shunt flow sufficiently to permit direct embolization of the fistula by an injectable plastic. This combined approach may allow obliteration of unresectable acquired or congenital arteriovenous malformations.", "PMID": 438884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4327", "title": "Localized primary intracranial Ewing's sarcoma of the orbital roof. Case report.", "content": "A rare case of a primary Ewing's sarcoma arising from the intracranial portion of the right orbital roof is presented. Clinical presentation was that of a rapidly growing tender exostosis, associated with headaches. History indicated that the tumor may have been present for more than 1 year. Skull x-rays showed marked diastasis of the coronal suture and a \"mottled\" appearance on the right frontal bone suggestive of a sarcoma. Bone scan further confirmed the presence of a malignant bone tumor. Computerized tomography scan showed the intracranial extension of the tumor and a follow-up scan allowed us to see the response of the tumor to therapy. Only two other cases with details as to intracranial localization were found in the literature.", "contents": "Localized primary intracranial Ewing's sarcoma of the orbital roof. Case report. A rare case of a primary Ewing's sarcoma arising from the intracranial portion of the right orbital roof is presented. Clinical presentation was that of a rapidly growing tender exostosis, associated with headaches. History indicated that the tumor may have been present for more than 1 year. Skull x-rays showed marked diastasis of the coronal suture and a \"mottled\" appearance on the right frontal bone suggestive of a sarcoma. Bone scan further confirmed the presence of a malignant bone tumor. Computerized tomography scan showed the intracranial extension of the tumor and a follow-up scan allowed us to see the response of the tumor to therapy. Only two other cases with details as to intracranial localization were found in the literature.", "PMID": 438885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4328", "title": "Replacement of L-phenylalanine and L-leucine by alpha-hydroxy analogues in the diets of germfree rats.", "content": "It has been suggested that the metabolic activity of the intestinal microflora is necessary for the utilization of the alpha-keto and alpha-hydroxy analogues of the essential amino acids. This role of the intestinal microflora has been examined by comparing weight gain of germfree and conventional rats in response to the substitution of one amino acid in the diet by its analogue. Using a completely defined liquid diet it was found that weight gain of germfree rats was well maintained and comparable to that of conventional rats when 1.5 M equivalents of DL-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid was substituted for L-leucine in the diet. Although weight gain was not fully maintained when 2.0 M equivalents of L-phenyllactate was substituted for L-phenylalanine, germfree and conventional rats showed similar weight gains. These results exclude an obligatory role for the flora in the utilization of these non-nitrogen containing analogues of L-phenylalanine and L-leucine.", "contents": "Replacement of L-phenylalanine and L-leucine by alpha-hydroxy analogues in the diets of germfree rats. It has been suggested that the metabolic activity of the intestinal microflora is necessary for the utilization of the alpha-keto and alpha-hydroxy analogues of the essential amino acids. This role of the intestinal microflora has been examined by comparing weight gain of germfree and conventional rats in response to the substitution of one amino acid in the diet by its analogue. Using a completely defined liquid diet it was found that weight gain of germfree rats was well maintained and comparable to that of conventional rats when 1.5 M equivalents of DL-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid was substituted for L-leucine in the diet. Although weight gain was not fully maintained when 2.0 M equivalents of L-phenyllactate was substituted for L-phenylalanine, germfree and conventional rats showed similar weight gains. These results exclude an obligatory role for the flora in the utilization of these non-nitrogen containing analogues of L-phenylalanine and L-leucine.", "PMID": 438892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4329", "title": "Vitamin B6 dependence of selenomethionine and selenite utilization for glutathione peroxidase in the rat.", "content": "The biological availability of selenium from sodium selenite and selenomethionine for glutathione peroxidase activity was studied. Rats were fed ad libitum for 2 weeks a basal diet deficient in both selenium and vitamin B6, and then for the subsequent 2 weeks the same diet supplemented with vitamin B6 (2.5 micrograms as pyridoxine-HCl/g diet) or selenium (2 microgram/g diet) or both. In the presence of vitamin B6, selenite and selenomethionine increased equally the glutathione peroxidase activity in both the liver and erythrocytes above that of selenium-unsupplemented controls. In the absence of vitamin B6, selenomethionine was less effective in the liver and ineffective in the erythrocytes while selenite was equally effective in both tissues and was as effective as in the presence of vitamin B6. These results indicate that selenite selenium is readily available for glutathione peroxidase induction as compared with selenomethionine, and establish that vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of selenomethionine to supply selenium for glutathione peroxidase.", "contents": "Vitamin B6 dependence of selenomethionine and selenite utilization for glutathione peroxidase in the rat. The biological availability of selenium from sodium selenite and selenomethionine for glutathione peroxidase activity was studied. Rats were fed ad libitum for 2 weeks a basal diet deficient in both selenium and vitamin B6, and then for the subsequent 2 weeks the same diet supplemented with vitamin B6 (2.5 micrograms as pyridoxine-HCl/g diet) or selenium (2 microgram/g diet) or both. In the presence of vitamin B6, selenite and selenomethionine increased equally the glutathione peroxidase activity in both the liver and erythrocytes above that of selenium-unsupplemented controls. In the absence of vitamin B6, selenomethionine was less effective in the liver and ineffective in the erythrocytes while selenite was equally effective in both tissues and was as effective as in the presence of vitamin B6. These results indicate that selenite selenium is readily available for glutathione peroxidase induction as compared with selenomethionine, and establish that vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of selenomethionine to supply selenium for glutathione peroxidase.", "PMID": 438893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4330", "title": "Effect of food toxicants on voluntary wheel running in rats.", "content": "Voluntary wheel running in rats in reaction to a dietary deficiency of iron or food toxicants of natural (dioscin) and environmental (cadmium) origins was used to develop a behavioral model by which rapid detection of food contaminants was accomplished following induction of spontaneous activity by techniques of feed restriction. High levels of voluntary wheel running in reference controls were followed by significant depressions in running activity in animals fed the dietary toxicants. Analyses of blood and liver tissues and depressions of testes size confirmed the presence of the insults to metabolism.", "contents": "Effect of food toxicants on voluntary wheel running in rats. Voluntary wheel running in rats in reaction to a dietary deficiency of iron or food toxicants of natural (dioscin) and environmental (cadmium) origins was used to develop a behavioral model by which rapid detection of food contaminants was accomplished following induction of spontaneous activity by techniques of feed restriction. High levels of voluntary wheel running in reference controls were followed by significant depressions in running activity in animals fed the dietary toxicants. Analyses of blood and liver tissues and depressions of testes size confirmed the presence of the insults to metabolism.", "PMID": 438894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4331", "title": "Effect of capsaicin on gastric acid secretion and mucosal blood flow in the rat.", "content": "The effect of capsaicin, a pungent ingredient in capsicum fruit, upon gastric acid secretion and mucosal blood flow was assessed in the anesthetized rat. At each 15 minute interval, 0.3 ml saline solution, with or without various doses of pure synthetic capsaicin (the doses varied from 50 to 2,000 microgram/kg rat) was delivered into the gastric lumen via a gastric fistula. The gastric contents were withdrawn after 15 minutes for acid assay and replaced with a new saline solution. Capsaicin of increasing doses (up to 1,000 microgram/kg) progressively increased the acid output. Gastric inhibitors hexamethonium and atropine, completely abolished the acid secretion induced by capsaicin whereas secretin only partially reduced such a response. The systemic blood pressure was not affected by the capsaicin or the method employed. However, the aminopyrine clearance which was the indicator of the gastric mucosal blood flow increased in accordance with the increase in the acid output. It is suggested that the effect of capsaicin on the acid secretion and mucosal blood flow is by the release of endogenous gastric secretagogues which increase both tissue perfusion and the secretory activity.", "contents": "Effect of capsaicin on gastric acid secretion and mucosal blood flow in the rat. The effect of capsaicin, a pungent ingredient in capsicum fruit, upon gastric acid secretion and mucosal blood flow was assessed in the anesthetized rat. At each 15 minute interval, 0.3 ml saline solution, with or without various doses of pure synthetic capsaicin (the doses varied from 50 to 2,000 microgram/kg rat) was delivered into the gastric lumen via a gastric fistula. The gastric contents were withdrawn after 15 minutes for acid assay and replaced with a new saline solution. Capsaicin of increasing doses (up to 1,000 microgram/kg) progressively increased the acid output. Gastric inhibitors hexamethonium and atropine, completely abolished the acid secretion induced by capsaicin whereas secretin only partially reduced such a response. The systemic blood pressure was not affected by the capsaicin or the method employed. However, the aminopyrine clearance which was the indicator of the gastric mucosal blood flow increased in accordance with the increase in the acid output. It is suggested that the effect of capsaicin on the acid secretion and mucosal blood flow is by the release of endogenous gastric secretagogues which increase both tissue perfusion and the secretory activity.", "PMID": 438895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4332", "title": "Response of plasma levels of vitamin A to a dose of vitamin A as an indicator of hepatic vitamin A reserves in rats.", "content": "Rats were fed diets deficient [-A] or sufficient [+A] (3 mg retinol equivalents/kg) in vitamin A, and without [-RA] or with [+RA] (12 mg/kg) retinoic acid supplementation for up to 33 days. Rats with plasma vitamin A levels ranging from 7 to 62 micrograms/dl were studied at intervals during progressive depletion of liver stores of vitamin A (expt. 2) and when liver stores were nearly exhausted (less than 10 micrograms/g) or replete (up to 100 micrograms/g) with vitamin A (expt. 1). A dose of retinyl acetate in corn oil (20 micrograms retinol equivalents) was administered by intubation directly into the stomach. The relative dose response (RDR), expressed as a percentage and defined as the absolute magnitude of the rise in plasma vitamin A levels 5 hours after the dose of retinyl acetate, divided by the plasma level of vitamin A attained after 5 hours, was determined for each rat and correlated over a wide range of vitamin A plasma and liver levels. An RDR above 50% invariably was associated with low plasma levels (10 to 30 micrograms/dl) and low liver stores (less than 10 micrograms/g) of vitamin A, whereas an RDR of less than 40% was associated with plasma levels above 30 micrograms/dl and liver stores ranging from 3 to 100 micrograms/g.", "contents": "Response of plasma levels of vitamin A to a dose of vitamin A as an indicator of hepatic vitamin A reserves in rats. Rats were fed diets deficient [-A] or sufficient [+A] (3 mg retinol equivalents/kg) in vitamin A, and without [-RA] or with [+RA] (12 mg/kg) retinoic acid supplementation for up to 33 days. Rats with plasma vitamin A levels ranging from 7 to 62 micrograms/dl were studied at intervals during progressive depletion of liver stores of vitamin A (expt. 2) and when liver stores were nearly exhausted (less than 10 micrograms/g) or replete (up to 100 micrograms/g) with vitamin A (expt. 1). A dose of retinyl acetate in corn oil (20 micrograms retinol equivalents) was administered by intubation directly into the stomach. The relative dose response (RDR), expressed as a percentage and defined as the absolute magnitude of the rise in plasma vitamin A levels 5 hours after the dose of retinyl acetate, divided by the plasma level of vitamin A attained after 5 hours, was determined for each rat and correlated over a wide range of vitamin A plasma and liver levels. An RDR above 50% invariably was associated with low plasma levels (10 to 30 micrograms/dl) and low liver stores (less than 10 micrograms/g) of vitamin A, whereas an RDR of less than 40% was associated with plasma levels above 30 micrograms/dl and liver stores ranging from 3 to 100 micrograms/g.", "PMID": 438896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4333", "title": "Effects of dietary vitamin A deficiency, retinoic acid and protein quantity and quality on serially obtained plasma and liver levels of vitamin A in rats.", "content": "Rats were fed vitamin A-deficient diets either alone, supplemented with retinoic acid (RA), or of limited protein quality or quantity (7%rice or 7% casein protein); one group was fed 7% rice protein supplemented with vitamin A. Plasma and liver levels of vitamin A were determined serially. Plasma levels in rats fed otherwise adequate vitamin A-deficient diets remained above 30 micrograms/dl until liver reserves were below 10 micrograms/g tissue, at which point plasma levels decreased in some but not all rats while liver levels continued to decline (at a slower rate) to levels as low as 3 micrograms/g. Supplementation with RA caused an immediate and sustained reduction of 15 to 20 micrograms/dl in circulating vitamin A. At 7% dietary protein, plasma levels of vitamin A remained above 30 micrograms/dl when casein protein was fed or when the rice protein diet was supplemented with dietary vitamin A, but not when the rice protein diet was fed without an exogenous source of the vitamin. A scheme is proposed suggesting possible regulatory mechanisms that might control homeostatic levels of plasma vitamin A.", "contents": "Effects of dietary vitamin A deficiency, retinoic acid and protein quantity and quality on serially obtained plasma and liver levels of vitamin A in rats. Rats were fed vitamin A-deficient diets either alone, supplemented with retinoic acid (RA), or of limited protein quality or quantity (7%rice or 7% casein protein); one group was fed 7% rice protein supplemented with vitamin A. Plasma and liver levels of vitamin A were determined serially. Plasma levels in rats fed otherwise adequate vitamin A-deficient diets remained above 30 micrograms/dl until liver reserves were below 10 micrograms/g tissue, at which point plasma levels decreased in some but not all rats while liver levels continued to decline (at a slower rate) to levels as low as 3 micrograms/g. Supplementation with RA caused an immediate and sustained reduction of 15 to 20 micrograms/dl in circulating vitamin A. At 7% dietary protein, plasma levels of vitamin A remained above 30 micrograms/dl when casein protein was fed or when the rice protein diet was supplemented with dietary vitamin A, but not when the rice protein diet was fed without an exogenous source of the vitamin. A scheme is proposed suggesting possible regulatory mechanisms that might control homeostatic levels of plasma vitamin A.", "PMID": 438897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4334", "title": "Dietary fat-dependent changes in hepatic cholesterogenesis and the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase in fasted-refed rats.", "content": "Effects of various dietary fats on the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase and sterol and fatty acid synthesis from [1-14C]acetate and [2-14C]mevalonate were examined in the liver from fasted-refed rats. Rats fasted for 2 days were refed a fat-free diet or diets containing various fats (tricaprylin, trilaurin, trimyristin, tristearin, camellia oil, or safflower oil) at the 10% level for 1, 3, or 7 days. The activity of HMG-CoA reductase was restored to about one-half of the pre-fasting levels in all groups after refeeding for 1 day and increased to above the pre-fasting levels after 3 days, with the exception of safflower oil, the rise was especially noticeable when fat-free, tricaprylin, and tristearin diets were fed. After 7 days, the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, except for rats refed tristearin, was decreased to levels that were far below those observed after 1 day-refeeding. This was particularly marked with tricaprylin, trilaurin, and camellia oil. The response of sterogenesis resembled that of the reductase. Dietary fat-dependent modification of fatty acid synthesis from [1-14C]acetate was first demonstrated after 7 days. Hepatic esterified cholesterol tended to accumulate and the deposition was marked after 3 days of refeeding. However, fat-dependent alterations of this parameter were remarkable on day 7. The concentration of plasma cholesterol also showed dietary fat-dependent changes after refeeding. Dietary fats appear to play an important role not only in the regulation of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase and sterol synthesis, but also in the overall processes of cholesterol dynamics.", "contents": "Dietary fat-dependent changes in hepatic cholesterogenesis and the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase in fasted-refed rats. Effects of various dietary fats on the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase and sterol and fatty acid synthesis from [1-14C]acetate and [2-14C]mevalonate were examined in the liver from fasted-refed rats. Rats fasted for 2 days were refed a fat-free diet or diets containing various fats (tricaprylin, trilaurin, trimyristin, tristearin, camellia oil, or safflower oil) at the 10% level for 1, 3, or 7 days. The activity of HMG-CoA reductase was restored to about one-half of the pre-fasting levels in all groups after refeeding for 1 day and increased to above the pre-fasting levels after 3 days, with the exception of safflower oil, the rise was especially noticeable when fat-free, tricaprylin, and tristearin diets were fed. After 7 days, the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, except for rats refed tristearin, was decreased to levels that were far below those observed after 1 day-refeeding. This was particularly marked with tricaprylin, trilaurin, and camellia oil. The response of sterogenesis resembled that of the reductase. Dietary fat-dependent modification of fatty acid synthesis from [1-14C]acetate was first demonstrated after 7 days. Hepatic esterified cholesterol tended to accumulate and the deposition was marked after 3 days of refeeding. However, fat-dependent alterations of this parameter were remarkable on day 7. The concentration of plasma cholesterol also showed dietary fat-dependent changes after refeeding. Dietary fats appear to play an important role not only in the regulation of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase and sterol synthesis, but also in the overall processes of cholesterol dynamics.", "PMID": 438898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4335", "title": "Effect of mineral mixture in diet on protein intake regulation in the weanling rat.", "content": "Weanling rats fed a choice of two diets varying only in protein concentration (10 and 60% casein) select a lower proportion of dietary energy as protein when the dietary minerals are supplied by a mineral mixture high in Na, K, and Cl but low in P and Cu (Hi Cl) than when the diets contain the Bernhart-Tomarelli (BT) mineral mixture. The addition of Na and/or K as acetate salts to the BT mineral mixture, to levels in the Hi Cl mixture, had no effect on regulation of protein intake. However, the addition of Na and/or K as chloride salts to the BT mineral mixture resulted in the rats selecting a protein concentration equivalent to the Hi Cl fed group. Weight gains and energy consumption were similar for all groups. It was therefore concluded that dietary chloride affects protein feeding behavior.", "contents": "Effect of mineral mixture in diet on protein intake regulation in the weanling rat. Weanling rats fed a choice of two diets varying only in protein concentration (10 and 60% casein) select a lower proportion of dietary energy as protein when the dietary minerals are supplied by a mineral mixture high in Na, K, and Cl but low in P and Cu (Hi Cl) than when the diets contain the Bernhart-Tomarelli (BT) mineral mixture. The addition of Na and/or K as acetate salts to the BT mineral mixture, to levels in the Hi Cl mixture, had no effect on regulation of protein intake. However, the addition of Na and/or K as chloride salts to the BT mineral mixture resulted in the rats selecting a protein concentration equivalent to the Hi Cl fed group. Weight gains and energy consumption were similar for all groups. It was therefore concluded that dietary chloride affects protein feeding behavior.", "PMID": 438899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4336", "title": "Protein quality of high-protein and low-protein milled rices in preschool children.", "content": "High-protein (11.0%, IR480-5-9) and low-protein (7.1%, IR32) milled rices were compared with casein as a control when fed as the main source of dietary N to eight apparently normal Filipino children, 1.5 to 2.0 years of age. Daily diets were formulated to contain 250 mg N and 100 kcal/kg body weight. Apparent digestibility of 60.0% for high-protein rice was lower than for low-protein rice (66.2%), and higher values of 76.8 and 80.8% were obtained for the two casein control diets. Corresponding apparent retentions were similar for the two rices, at 23.4 and 26.9%, respectively, as compared to 25.0 and 38.6% for the two casein control diets. These results support previous data on children fed non-isonitrogenous rice-based diets indicating that an increase in protein content of milled rice results in only a slight decrease in its protein quality. The results were similar to those obtained with Peruvian children on a similar protocol.", "contents": "Protein quality of high-protein and low-protein milled rices in preschool children. High-protein (11.0%, IR480-5-9) and low-protein (7.1%, IR32) milled rices were compared with casein as a control when fed as the main source of dietary N to eight apparently normal Filipino children, 1.5 to 2.0 years of age. Daily diets were formulated to contain 250 mg N and 100 kcal/kg body weight. Apparent digestibility of 60.0% for high-protein rice was lower than for low-protein rice (66.2%), and higher values of 76.8 and 80.8% were obtained for the two casein control diets. Corresponding apparent retentions were similar for the two rices, at 23.4 and 26.9%, respectively, as compared to 25.0 and 38.6% for the two casein control diets. These results support previous data on children fed non-isonitrogenous rice-based diets indicating that an increase in protein content of milled rice results in only a slight decrease in its protein quality. The results were similar to those obtained with Peruvian children on a similar protocol.", "PMID": 438900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4337", "title": "Use of tritiated water for measurement of 24-hour milk intake in suckling lean and genetically obese (ob/ob) mice.", "content": "A non-invasive method has been developed for measuring milk intake of suckling mice under physiological conditions. This method was used to determine whether genetically obese (ob/ob) mice are hyperphagic at 10 and 15 days of age. Lactating dams were injected with tritiated water (3H2O), which equilibrated in body water within 30 minutes. A constant specific activity of 3H2O was maintained over a 24-hour period by provision of 3H2O in drinking water. Tritium accumulation in body water of pups was proportional to their milk intake. After 24 hours, pups were removed from the dam, weighed, and blood samples (less than 10 microliters) obtained for assay of plasma 3H content by liquid scintillation counting. Body water content was computed from body weight. The composition of mouse milk taken from dams on days 10 and 15 of lactation was analyzed both volumetrically and gravimetrically. Water content was 68 to 69%; lipid content was 20% on day 10, 17% on day 15. At 10 days, mean milk intake was 0.96 ml, independent of litter size. At 15 days, intake per pup tended to decrease, from 1.4 to 0.8 ml, with increasing litter size. Using this method we have established that under physiological conditions ob/ob mice, which were identified as such at 4 to 5 weeks of age, do not have increased milk consumption at either 10 or 15 days of age.", "contents": "Use of tritiated water for measurement of 24-hour milk intake in suckling lean and genetically obese (ob/ob) mice. A non-invasive method has been developed for measuring milk intake of suckling mice under physiological conditions. This method was used to determine whether genetically obese (ob/ob) mice are hyperphagic at 10 and 15 days of age. Lactating dams were injected with tritiated water (3H2O), which equilibrated in body water within 30 minutes. A constant specific activity of 3H2O was maintained over a 24-hour period by provision of 3H2O in drinking water. Tritium accumulation in body water of pups was proportional to their milk intake. After 24 hours, pups were removed from the dam, weighed, and blood samples (less than 10 microliters) obtained for assay of plasma 3H content by liquid scintillation counting. Body water content was computed from body weight. The composition of mouse milk taken from dams on days 10 and 15 of lactation was analyzed both volumetrically and gravimetrically. Water content was 68 to 69%; lipid content was 20% on day 10, 17% on day 15. At 10 days, mean milk intake was 0.96 ml, independent of litter size. At 15 days, intake per pup tended to decrease, from 1.4 to 0.8 ml, with increasing litter size. Using this method we have established that under physiological conditions ob/ob mice, which were identified as such at 4 to 5 weeks of age, do not have increased milk consumption at either 10 or 15 days of age.", "PMID": 438901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4338", "title": "Fetal skeletal malformations associated with moderate zinc deficiency during pregnancy.", "content": "This study investigated the effects of moderate zinc deficiency on the development of rat fetal skeleton. Eighteen pregnant rats were fed zinc deficient diet (1.3 ppm) from days 3 to 15 of gestation. An additional 18 rats were pair fed the same diet supplemented with 100 ppm zinc and served as controls. The levels of zinc in plasma were determined on days 15 and 20 of gestation and in the amniotic fluid on day 20. The pregnant rats were killed on day 20 and fetuses were cleared and stained with alizarin red. The weight of zinc deficient fetuses was significantly less than that of controls. The uncleared, as well as stained zinc supplemented fetuses, showed no anomalies. The alizarin stained experimental fetuses showed severe anomalies of long bones, vertebrae, and ribs. The overall calcification of bones was also considerably less as compared to zinc supplemented controls. The zinc levels were significantly less in plasma (day 15) and amniotic fluid (day 20) of experimental dams. The results also indicated that although moderate zinc deficiency does not cause external craniofacial malformations, it severely affects the calcification and development of cranial bones.", "contents": "Fetal skeletal malformations associated with moderate zinc deficiency during pregnancy. This study investigated the effects of moderate zinc deficiency on the development of rat fetal skeleton. Eighteen pregnant rats were fed zinc deficient diet (1.3 ppm) from days 3 to 15 of gestation. An additional 18 rats were pair fed the same diet supplemented with 100 ppm zinc and served as controls. The levels of zinc in plasma were determined on days 15 and 20 of gestation and in the amniotic fluid on day 20. The pregnant rats were killed on day 20 and fetuses were cleared and stained with alizarin red. The weight of zinc deficient fetuses was significantly less than that of controls. The uncleared, as well as stained zinc supplemented fetuses, showed no anomalies. The alizarin stained experimental fetuses showed severe anomalies of long bones, vertebrae, and ribs. The overall calcification of bones was also considerably less as compared to zinc supplemented controls. The zinc levels were significantly less in plasma (day 15) and amniotic fluid (day 20) of experimental dams. The results also indicated that although moderate zinc deficiency does not cause external craniofacial malformations, it severely affects the calcification and development of cranial bones.", "PMID": 438902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4339", "title": "Cancer mortality in oil refinery workers.", "content": "The cancer mortality experience from 1964 to 1973 of employees of the Imperial Oil Limited was examined in a cohort study. Employees in jobs which exposed them on a daily basis to crude petroleum or its products, compared with nonexposed employees, were found to have more than three times the risk of esophageal and stomach cancer and about twice the risk of lung cancer. In the exposed group, increasing risks of both cancers occurred with increasing duration of employment. In the absence of more complete information on the similarity of the exposed and nonexposed employees, these results cannot be ascribed with certainty to a carcinogenic effect of petroleum. However, there was no other clear explanation for the results, and further study is required. When refinery workers were compared with nonrefinery workers without consideration of exposure to petroleum in either group, the refinery workers were found to have twice the risk of cancer of the intestines (including rectum) and other digestive organs. No relationship with duration of employment was evident. Although the increased intestinal cancer mortality in the refinery workers was not consistent, bias was not an obvious explanation for the observed relationship. Therefore, the presence on a refinery site of a carcinogen other than petroleum has not been ruled out, and further study is urged.", "contents": "Cancer mortality in oil refinery workers. The cancer mortality experience from 1964 to 1973 of employees of the Imperial Oil Limited was examined in a cohort study. Employees in jobs which exposed them on a daily basis to crude petroleum or its products, compared with nonexposed employees, were found to have more than three times the risk of esophageal and stomach cancer and about twice the risk of lung cancer. In the exposed group, increasing risks of both cancers occurred with increasing duration of employment. In the absence of more complete information on the similarity of the exposed and nonexposed employees, these results cannot be ascribed with certainty to a carcinogenic effect of petroleum. However, there was no other clear explanation for the results, and further study is required. When refinery workers were compared with nonrefinery workers without consideration of exposure to petroleum in either group, the refinery workers were found to have twice the risk of cancer of the intestines (including rectum) and other digestive organs. No relationship with duration of employment was evident. Although the increased intestinal cancer mortality in the refinery workers was not consistent, bias was not an obvious explanation for the observed relationship. Therefore, the presence on a refinery site of a carcinogen other than petroleum has not been ruled out, and further study is urged.", "PMID": 438906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4340", "title": "Urinary and plasma concentrations of nickel as indicators of exposure to nickel in an electroplating shop.", "content": "The relationship between atmospheric exposure to nickel and urine and plasma nickel concentrations was studied by following four workers from an electroplating shop for one work week by daily measurements of the nickel concentration in workroom air with personal samplers and nickel concentrations in blood and urine samples collected before and after the work shift. The workroom air concentrations ranged from 0.03 to 0.16 mg/m3. The urinary and plasma nickel concentrations were higher in the samples taken after than before the work shift and a close positive correlation was found between the air nickel concentrations and the urine and plasma nickel concentrations, respectively. There was also a close correlation between urinary and plasma nickel concentrations. A slight accumulation of nickel occurred as judged from the increasing concentrations of nickel in the urine and plasma morning samples during the study week. This study indicates that both plasma and urine nickel concentrations may be used as biological indicators of exposure to soluble nickel compounds.", "contents": "Urinary and plasma concentrations of nickel as indicators of exposure to nickel in an electroplating shop. The relationship between atmospheric exposure to nickel and urine and plasma nickel concentrations was studied by following four workers from an electroplating shop for one work week by daily measurements of the nickel concentration in workroom air with personal samplers and nickel concentrations in blood and urine samples collected before and after the work shift. The workroom air concentrations ranged from 0.03 to 0.16 mg/m3. The urinary and plasma nickel concentrations were higher in the samples taken after than before the work shift and a close positive correlation was found between the air nickel concentrations and the urine and plasma nickel concentrations, respectively. There was also a close correlation between urinary and plasma nickel concentrations. A slight accumulation of nickel occurred as judged from the increasing concentrations of nickel in the urine and plasma morning samples during the study week. This study indicates that both plasma and urine nickel concentrations may be used as biological indicators of exposure to soluble nickel compounds.", "PMID": 438908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4341", "title": "Harvester exposure to Zolone (phosalone) residues in peach orchards.", "content": "This field study was undertaken to quantitate the exposures of peach pickers to pesticide residues. Five fields were harvested each for three days at decreasing post-application intervals. Aerosol and dermal exposure estimates indicated 98-99% of the workers' dose was dermal, predominantly to the hands and upper extremities. Estimates of dose correlated with measurements of foliar residues. Despite estimated dose rates of up to 14 mg/hr, the RBC cholinesterase in these workers may have been only slightly inhibited (circa 4%) when compared to an unexposed, control population. Comparisons of these results with earlier studies of parathion residues on citrus indicate a consistent pattern of worker exposure. However, a concern is raised over the efficacy of using existing foliar residue sampling methodologies for all other pesticides.", "contents": "Harvester exposure to Zolone (phosalone) residues in peach orchards. This field study was undertaken to quantitate the exposures of peach pickers to pesticide residues. Five fields were harvested each for three days at decreasing post-application intervals. Aerosol and dermal exposure estimates indicated 98-99% of the workers' dose was dermal, predominantly to the hands and upper extremities. Estimates of dose correlated with measurements of foliar residues. Despite estimated dose rates of up to 14 mg/hr, the RBC cholinesterase in these workers may have been only slightly inhibited (circa 4%) when compared to an unexposed, control population. Comparisons of these results with earlier studies of parathion residues on citrus indicate a consistent pattern of worker exposure. However, a concern is raised over the efficacy of using existing foliar residue sampling methodologies for all other pesticides.", "PMID": 438909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4342", "title": "Significance of data collection. Viewpoint - academia.", "content": "The academic view of the collection of data relating to the health of workers must reflect a concern for the value of the data for research purposes. Most routine data systems do not provide information of research quality, and often are not appropriate or sufficiently detailed to allow specific hypotheses to be tested. the cost of serving research purposes in such systems is likely to be prohibitive. However, the monitoring of illness in groups of employees can and should serve as a most valuable research resource when viewed as a screening and detection mechanism. Therefore, a data collection system should be carefully designed with research needs in mind, so that it will be appropriately sensitive and consistent.", "contents": "Significance of data collection. Viewpoint - academia. The academic view of the collection of data relating to the health of workers must reflect a concern for the value of the data for research purposes. Most routine data systems do not provide information of research quality, and often are not appropriate or sufficiently detailed to allow specific hypotheses to be tested. the cost of serving research purposes in such systems is likely to be prohibitive. However, the monitoring of illness in groups of employees can and should serve as a most valuable research resource when viewed as a screening and detection mechanism. Therefore, a data collection system should be carefully designed with research needs in mind, so that it will be appropriately sensitive and consistent.", "PMID": 438911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4343", "title": "Medically-related absenteeism: random or motivated behavior?", "content": "The present study examined alternative measures of absence proneness related to organizationally-defined measures of absenteeism. A typical distinction among various types of absences is to separate medically-related absences from other types, since medically-related absences are believed to reflect random or unsystematic causes of behavior rather than voluntary choice behavior of the employee. The present study defined absence proneness as the degree to which individuals repeat their behavior. Three years of absence data for a sample of employees from one company were examined to discover the degree of absence proneness present in organizationally-defined forms of medically-related and voluntary absenteeism. In addition, a survey was administered to the sample to measure employee perceptions of work and non-work-related factors which were believed to be motivational determinants of absenteeism. A multiple discriminant analysis was developed in an attempt to classify employees to a survey designed to measure motivational determinants of absenteeism. The classification results supported the view that medically-related absenteeism has motivational determinants related to employee work and non-work preferences. Implications for management are discussed.", "contents": "Medically-related absenteeism: random or motivated behavior? The present study examined alternative measures of absence proneness related to organizationally-defined measures of absenteeism. A typical distinction among various types of absences is to separate medically-related absences from other types, since medically-related absences are believed to reflect random or unsystematic causes of behavior rather than voluntary choice behavior of the employee. The present study defined absence proneness as the degree to which individuals repeat their behavior. Three years of absence data for a sample of employees from one company were examined to discover the degree of absence proneness present in organizationally-defined forms of medically-related and voluntary absenteeism. In addition, a survey was administered to the sample to measure employee perceptions of work and non-work-related factors which were believed to be motivational determinants of absenteeism. A multiple discriminant analysis was developed in an attempt to classify employees to a survey designed to measure motivational determinants of absenteeism. The classification results supported the view that medically-related absenteeism has motivational determinants related to employee work and non-work preferences. Implications for management are discussed.", "PMID": 438913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4344", "title": "Critical analysis of the effectiveness of secondary prevention of occupational hearing loss.", "content": "There is an unavoidable error margin associated with audiometric measurements. This error margin was used to set specificity and sensitivity criteria for repeated testing of hearing. The criteria were applied to the time growth function of occupational hearing loss for typical noise exposures. It is shown that monitoring audiometry can be an effective screening procedure only for the first five to ten years of exposure to a given noise environment. A strategy for effective secondary prevention of occupational hearing loss is outlined.", "contents": "Critical analysis of the effectiveness of secondary prevention of occupational hearing loss. There is an unavoidable error margin associated with audiometric measurements. This error margin was used to set specificity and sensitivity criteria for repeated testing of hearing. The criteria were applied to the time growth function of occupational hearing loss for typical noise exposures. It is shown that monitoring audiometry can be an effective screening procedure only for the first five to ten years of exposure to a given noise environment. A strategy for effective secondary prevention of occupational hearing loss is outlined.", "PMID": 438914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4345", "title": "Instrumentation for measurement of sensory loss in the fingertips.", "content": "Four aesthesiometers measuring fingertip sensation were fabricated, two for depth-sense perception and two for two-point discrimination. With the use of 20 normal subjects (10 female and 10 male) and seven subjects with vasospastic disturbance (three female and four male) comparisons were made to determine which of each pair of instruments was the more sensitive. The results indicated that instrument A is preferable to B in measuring depth-sense perception, and C is preferable to D in measuring two-point discrimination. Females appear to have more acute sensory perception than males. Female and male patients diagnosed as having \"Raynaud's disease\" show a loss in fingertip sensory perception.", "contents": "Instrumentation for measurement of sensory loss in the fingertips. Four aesthesiometers measuring fingertip sensation were fabricated, two for depth-sense perception and two for two-point discrimination. With the use of 20 normal subjects (10 female and 10 male) and seven subjects with vasospastic disturbance (three female and four male) comparisons were made to determine which of each pair of instruments was the more sensitive. The results indicated that instrument A is preferable to B in measuring depth-sense perception, and C is preferable to D in measuring two-point discrimination. Females appear to have more acute sensory perception than males. Female and male patients diagnosed as having \"Raynaud's disease\" show a loss in fingertip sensory perception.", "PMID": 438916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4346", "title": "Strength and fitness and subsequent back injuries in firefighters.", "content": "This prospective investigation was done to evaluate five strength and fitness measurements and the subsequent occurrence of back injuries in 1652 firefighters for the years 1971 to 1974. The prospective measurements included flexibility, isometric lifting strength, bicycle ergometer exercise measurements of two-minute recovery heart rate, diastolic blood pressure at a heart rate of 160 beats per minute and watts of effort required to sustain heart rate at 160. Three fitness and conditioning groups were established by multivariate ranking and regression techniques (259 high, 266 low, and 1127 middle) and the subsequent back injuries were tabulated for the three groups. The results showed a graded and statistically significant protective effect for added levels of fitness and conditioning (least fit, 7.1% injured; middle fit, 3.2% jured; and most fit, 0.8% injured). It was concluded that physical fitness and conditioning of firefighters are preventive of back injuries and that further investigations are warranted to study other injuries and physical fitness in this physically active occupational group.", "contents": "Strength and fitness and subsequent back injuries in firefighters. This prospective investigation was done to evaluate five strength and fitness measurements and the subsequent occurrence of back injuries in 1652 firefighters for the years 1971 to 1974. The prospective measurements included flexibility, isometric lifting strength, bicycle ergometer exercise measurements of two-minute recovery heart rate, diastolic blood pressure at a heart rate of 160 beats per minute and watts of effort required to sustain heart rate at 160. Three fitness and conditioning groups were established by multivariate ranking and regression techniques (259 high, 266 low, and 1127 middle) and the subsequent back injuries were tabulated for the three groups. The results showed a graded and statistically significant protective effect for added levels of fitness and conditioning (least fit, 7.1% injured; middle fit, 3.2% jured; and most fit, 0.8% injured). It was concluded that physical fitness and conditioning of firefighters are preventive of back injuries and that further investigations are warranted to study other injuries and physical fitness in this physically active occupational group.", "PMID": 438917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4347", "title": "Prevalence of respiratory disease in a cotton compress and warehouse. A preliminary survey.", "content": "A preliminary survey was undertaken to explore the relationship of respiratory symptoms and disease to work in a cotton compress and warehouse operation. A respiratory history was obtained from all 70 employees in a single cotton compress and warehouse complex. Sixteen of 70 employees (23%) had respiratory symptoms but none were typical of byssinosis. Fifteen of the 16 employees with positive respiratory symptoms were further studied by objective pulmonary function tests. Five of these 15 workers had abnormal results: one with an FEV1 decrement greater that 5% only, one with a ratio of FEV1, to FVC less than 70% only, and two with both abnormalities. One additional employee had an FEV1 of 73% predicted as his only abnormality.", "contents": "Prevalence of respiratory disease in a cotton compress and warehouse. A preliminary survey. A preliminary survey was undertaken to explore the relationship of respiratory symptoms and disease to work in a cotton compress and warehouse operation. A respiratory history was obtained from all 70 employees in a single cotton compress and warehouse complex. Sixteen of 70 employees (23%) had respiratory symptoms but none were typical of byssinosis. Fifteen of the 16 employees with positive respiratory symptoms were further studied by objective pulmonary function tests. Five of these 15 workers had abnormal results: one with an FEV1 decrement greater that 5% only, one with a ratio of FEV1, to FVC less than 70% only, and two with both abnormalities. One additional employee had an FEV1 of 73% predicted as his only abnormality.", "PMID": 438918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4348", "title": "Studies of respiratory cancer in high risk communities.", "content": "Mortality from cancers of the respiratory tract show marked geographic variation within the U.S. This review describes the unusual patterns of these tumors, and traces how new clues to environmental and occupational determinants are being tested by epidemiologic studies in areas of the country where rates are high.", "contents": "Studies of respiratory cancer in high risk communities. Mortality from cancers of the respiratory tract show marked geographic variation within the U.S. This review describes the unusual patterns of these tumors, and traces how new clues to environmental and occupational determinants are being tested by epidemiologic studies in areas of the country where rates are high.", "PMID": 438919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4349", "title": "The problems of asbestosis in Spain.", "content": "About 50 cases of asbestosis have been descirbed in Spain from 1948 through 1974. Since 1975 the Instituto Territorial de Barcelona, Servicio Social de Higiene y Seguridad del Trabajo, has initiated a survey of all the industries with an asbestosis risk in the Barcelona area. Nearly 300 cases of asbestosis have been detected to date. Given the poor hygienic conditions of most of the industries, with an asbestosis risk, and the considerably large number of exposed people, it can easily be predicted that a rapid increase of the incidence of the disease in the years to come will occur. Most of the observed cases in Barcelona were from two fibrocement industries. Of a total of 1003 workers examined, 247 (about 25%) had asbestosis.", "contents": "The problems of asbestosis in Spain. About 50 cases of asbestosis have been descirbed in Spain from 1948 through 1974. Since 1975 the Instituto Territorial de Barcelona, Servicio Social de Higiene y Seguridad del Trabajo, has initiated a survey of all the industries with an asbestosis risk in the Barcelona area. Nearly 300 cases of asbestosis have been detected to date. Given the poor hygienic conditions of most of the industries, with an asbestosis risk, and the considerably large number of exposed people, it can easily be predicted that a rapid increase of the incidence of the disease in the years to come will occur. Most of the observed cases in Barcelona were from two fibrocement industries. Of a total of 1003 workers examined, 247 (about 25%) had asbestosis.", "PMID": 438920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4350", "title": "Median cleft face syndrome or frontonasal dysplasia: a case report with associated kidney malformation.", "content": "The authors present a case of an 11-month-old girl with the medial cleft face syndrome and the following malformations: ocular hyperterolism, primary telecanthus, cleft nose with absent tip, broad nasal root, complete absence of the left upper lid, and abnormal hair-line implantation in the corresponding frontal region, high arched palate, neurosensorial deafness and agenesia of the right kidney. The authors propose that the eyelid is responsible for the area of hair growth suppression around the eyes. This is the first case report of median cleft face syndrome associated with renal agenesia.", "contents": "Median cleft face syndrome or frontonasal dysplasia: a case report with associated kidney malformation. The authors present a case of an 11-month-old girl with the medial cleft face syndrome and the following malformations: ocular hyperterolism, primary telecanthus, cleft nose with absent tip, broad nasal root, complete absence of the left upper lid, and abnormal hair-line implantation in the corresponding frontal region, high arched palate, neurosensorial deafness and agenesia of the right kidney. The authors propose that the eyelid is responsible for the area of hair growth suppression around the eyes. This is the first case report of median cleft face syndrome associated with renal agenesia.", "PMID": 438926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4351", "title": "Rate and various aspects of eye infection resulting from congenital rubella.", "content": "A study on the eyes of 39 embryos, which were removed from women who had contracted clinical or subclinical rubella during the first and beginning of the second trimester of gestation is presented. A virological and histological study was performed on the eyes. In four cases rubella virus was isolated from the eye tissues (10.3%) and in nine cases, histological evidence of rubella cataract was found (27.3%). These results suggest that the rubella infection, even in cases of subclinical infections in pregnant women in the first trimester, are highly dangerous (in our study--37.6%) to the eye of the fetus, and, therefore, early diagnosis is necessary in order to avoid the risk of the consequences of congenital rubella infections in the newborn.", "contents": "Rate and various aspects of eye infection resulting from congenital rubella. A study on the eyes of 39 embryos, which were removed from women who had contracted clinical or subclinical rubella during the first and beginning of the second trimester of gestation is presented. A virological and histological study was performed on the eyes. In four cases rubella virus was isolated from the eye tissues (10.3%) and in nine cases, histological evidence of rubella cataract was found (27.3%). These results suggest that the rubella infection, even in cases of subclinical infections in pregnant women in the first trimester, are highly dangerous (in our study--37.6%) to the eye of the fetus, and, therefore, early diagnosis is necessary in order to avoid the risk of the consequences of congenital rubella infections in the newborn.", "PMID": 438927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4352", "title": "Isolation of rubella virus from lens material in cases of congenital cataracts.", "content": "Rubella virus cultures were carried on lens materials from seven cases of bilateral congenital cataracts and in one of them it was possible to isolate the virus. This case is one of those rare cases in which the virus was isolated.", "contents": "Isolation of rubella virus from lens material in cases of congenital cataracts. Rubella virus cultures were carried on lens materials from seven cases of bilateral congenital cataracts and in one of them it was possible to isolate the virus. This case is one of those rare cases in which the virus was isolated.", "PMID": 438928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4353", "title": "Comparison and combination of recall and Background Interference Procedures for the Bender-Gestalt Test with brain-damaged and schizophrenic patients.", "content": "The Bender-Gestalt Test was administered under standard, recall, Background Interference Procedure (BIP), and BIP-recall conditions to 20 brain-damaged and 20 schizophrenic male inpatients. Individual recall, BIP, and BIP-recall scores differentiated between the groups prior to controlling for IQ, but only recall and BIP-recall continued to discriminate once IQ was held constant. The use of difference scores corrected for standard copy performance (base level) resulted in improved diagnostic discrimination compared to difference scores alone. However, this procedure also produced a substantial multiple correlation with IQ and a consequent loss of group differentiation for the BIP difference score, while failing to yield an appreciable increase in predictive accuracy over individual scores for recall and BIP-recall. Nonetheless, a significant effect emerged independently of both recall and IQ for the BIP-recall score, suggesting that the BIP hypothesis may have merit within the context of memory functioning.", "contents": "Comparison and combination of recall and Background Interference Procedures for the Bender-Gestalt Test with brain-damaged and schizophrenic patients. The Bender-Gestalt Test was administered under standard, recall, Background Interference Procedure (BIP), and BIP-recall conditions to 20 brain-damaged and 20 schizophrenic male inpatients. Individual recall, BIP, and BIP-recall scores differentiated between the groups prior to controlling for IQ, but only recall and BIP-recall continued to discriminate once IQ was held constant. The use of difference scores corrected for standard copy performance (base level) resulted in improved diagnostic discrimination compared to difference scores alone. However, this procedure also produced a substantial multiple correlation with IQ and a consequent loss of group differentiation for the BIP difference score, while failing to yield an appreciable increase in predictive accuracy over individual scores for recall and BIP-recall. Nonetheless, a significant effect emerged independently of both recall and IQ for the BIP-recall score, suggesting that the BIP hypothesis may have merit within the context of memory functioning.", "PMID": 438934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4354", "title": "The diagnosis of brain-damage by the MMPI: a comprehensive evaluation.", "content": "A number of research studies have proposed various methods for using the MMPI to identify brain dysfunction. This previous research has taken one of three major approaches. The present study compared the major approaches in a population consisting of 30 schizophrenic, 30 brain-damaged and 30 hospitalized normal patients. The results indicated that the most effective diagnosis device was the use of the Sc scale alone or in conjunction with the remaining clinical scales and the F scale. None of the organic scales or keys were able to match the performance of the Sc scale alone. The poor results obtained bring into question the use of these scales in any other setting without an extensive research validation. An alternate method that might be used to employ the MMPI in the diagnosis of brain dysfunction was suggested.", "contents": "The diagnosis of brain-damage by the MMPI: a comprehensive evaluation. A number of research studies have proposed various methods for using the MMPI to identify brain dysfunction. This previous research has taken one of three major approaches. The present study compared the major approaches in a population consisting of 30 schizophrenic, 30 brain-damaged and 30 hospitalized normal patients. The results indicated that the most effective diagnosis device was the use of the Sc scale alone or in conjunction with the remaining clinical scales and the F scale. None of the organic scales or keys were able to match the performance of the Sc scale alone. The poor results obtained bring into question the use of these scales in any other setting without an extensive research validation. An alternate method that might be used to employ the MMPI in the diagnosis of brain dysfunction was suggested.", "PMID": 438935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4355", "title": "Superior oblique strengthening procedures in hypertropia I and II.", "content": "Strengthening the paretic superior oblique has an effective role in the management of cyclovertical hypertropia. Resection of the tendon is safe and the reduction of the deviation is long lasting.", "contents": "Superior oblique strengthening procedures in hypertropia I and II. Strengthening the paretic superior oblique has an effective role in the management of cyclovertical hypertropia. Resection of the tendon is safe and the reduction of the deviation is long lasting.", "PMID": 438930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4356", "title": "Alternate day esotropia.", "content": "A six-year-old girl was noted to develop alternate day esotropia three years following surgery for a moderate \"v\" esotropia. Many of the usual features of cyclic esotropia, including moderate hypermetropia, mild amblyopia, moderate to large deviation, a 48-hour cyclic pattern, and a high AC/C ratio were present. A therapeutic trial with strong miotics was unsuccessful. Saccadic velocity studies revealed no evidence of lateral rectus palsy. No fluctuations in pupillary size or response, refractive errors, accommodative amplitude, visual acuity, blood pressure, behavior, and the electroencephalographic pattern were noted. Following bimedial recession surgery, the eyes have remained straight and the cyclic pattern has been abolished for a two and one half year follow-up period. There is evidence to suggest that these patients are basically strabismic with cycles of remission.", "contents": "Alternate day esotropia. A six-year-old girl was noted to develop alternate day esotropia three years following surgery for a moderate \"v\" esotropia. Many of the usual features of cyclic esotropia, including moderate hypermetropia, mild amblyopia, moderate to large deviation, a 48-hour cyclic pattern, and a high AC/C ratio were present. A therapeutic trial with strong miotics was unsuccessful. Saccadic velocity studies revealed no evidence of lateral rectus palsy. No fluctuations in pupillary size or response, refractive errors, accommodative amplitude, visual acuity, blood pressure, behavior, and the electroencephalographic pattern were noted. Following bimedial recession surgery, the eyes have remained straight and the cyclic pattern has been abolished for a two and one half year follow-up period. There is evidence to suggest that these patients are basically strabismic with cycles of remission.", "PMID": 438929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4357", "title": "Cross validation of the 2-8/8-2 MMPI code type for young adult psychiatric outpatients.", "content": "Young adults attending a college student mental health center and obtaining 2 and 8 as their highest scale elevations (and not scale 7 as the third elevation) on the MMPI were compared to other patients at the center on 175 descriptors obtained from intake interviews. Those items which discriminated (chi2, p less than .05) 2-8/8-2 patients from others in the sample are presented in relationship to the descriptors obtained for this code type by other investigators. The statements generated by the Marks and Seeman interpretive system for adults were then reanalyzed by the Chi Square method to demonstrate the differential effect of statistical method upon code type interpretation. Although previously established correlates of 2-8/8-2 profiles were partially validated, a number of different descriptors emerge for males and females in this population. Questions are raised and discussed concerning methodologies for generating interpretive statements for various clinical populations.", "contents": "Cross validation of the 2-8/8-2 MMPI code type for young adult psychiatric outpatients. Young adults attending a college student mental health center and obtaining 2 and 8 as their highest scale elevations (and not scale 7 as the third elevation) on the MMPI were compared to other patients at the center on 175 descriptors obtained from intake interviews. Those items which discriminated (chi2, p less than .05) 2-8/8-2 patients from others in the sample are presented in relationship to the descriptors obtained for this code type by other investigators. The statements generated by the Marks and Seeman interpretive system for adults were then reanalyzed by the Chi Square method to demonstrate the differential effect of statistical method upon code type interpretation. Although previously established correlates of 2-8/8-2 profiles were partially validated, a number of different descriptors emerge for males and females in this population. Questions are raised and discussed concerning methodologies for generating interpretive statements for various clinical populations.", "PMID": 438936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4358", "title": "The Mosher Forced Choice Guilt Scale as a measure of anxiety.", "content": "Women divided into two levels of sex-guilt were administered the Word Association Test under three different conditions. In the first a confederate modeled sexual responses, in the second a confederate modeled nonsexual responses, and in the third condition no confederate was present. The results indicated that both low- and high-guilt women made significantly more sexual responses when exposed to the sexual model than in the nonsexual or no-model conditions. The results were interpreted as supporting an avoidant-anxiety conceptualization of guilt as opposed to Mosher's preservation of self-esteem view.", "contents": "The Mosher Forced Choice Guilt Scale as a measure of anxiety. Women divided into two levels of sex-guilt were administered the Word Association Test under three different conditions. In the first a confederate modeled sexual responses, in the second a confederate modeled nonsexual responses, and in the third condition no confederate was present. The results indicated that both low- and high-guilt women made significantly more sexual responses when exposed to the sexual model than in the nonsexual or no-model conditions. The results were interpreted as supporting an avoidant-anxiety conceptualization of guilt as opposed to Mosher's preservation of self-esteem view.", "PMID": 438937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4359", "title": "MMPI validity scales and behavioral disturbance in psychiatric inpatients.", "content": "Sixty psychiatric inpatients were assigned to one of three groups on the basis of F and K MMPI validity scales. Staff ratings of patient behavior and recorded incidents of \"acting-out\" behavior were obtained for patients with: (a) \"plea for help\" validity profiles, (b) hyper-defensive profiles, and (c) average profiles. Patients with \"plea for help\" profiles were perceived as \"acting-out\" more frequently and engendering more feelings of frustration than patients in the other groups. These patients account for 77% of the incidents of inappropriate, destructive behavior and 83% of the seclusions in the patients sampled. Although the \"plea for help\" profile is considered invalid in some scoring systems, results suggest that this validity profile may be useful in treatment planning.", "contents": "MMPI validity scales and behavioral disturbance in psychiatric inpatients. Sixty psychiatric inpatients were assigned to one of three groups on the basis of F and K MMPI validity scales. Staff ratings of patient behavior and recorded incidents of \"acting-out\" behavior were obtained for patients with: (a) \"plea for help\" validity profiles, (b) hyper-defensive profiles, and (c) average profiles. Patients with \"plea for help\" profiles were perceived as \"acting-out\" more frequently and engendering more feelings of frustration than patients in the other groups. These patients account for 77% of the incidents of inappropriate, destructive behavior and 83% of the seclusions in the patients sampled. Although the \"plea for help\" profile is considered invalid in some scoring systems, results suggest that this validity profile may be useful in treatment planning.", "PMID": 438938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4360", "title": "Studies on skin-electrode ERG in the closed-eye state.", "content": "Electroretinograms (ERG) were recorded using contact lens electrode and periorbital skin electrode in the opened- and closed-eye states in 15 volunteers. The implicit times of a-wave and b-wave were almost equal between recordings by contact lens electrode and those by skin electrode, when the tested eye was opened. Implicit times were prolonged when tested in the closed-eye state. In the opened-eye state, the b-wave amplitude by skin electrode was decreased to an extent of about 40%, compared to that by contact lens electrode. If repetitional stimuli of higher intensities were employed and responses were averaged, clinically satisfactory ERGs were recordable with skin electrodes in the closed-eye state.", "contents": "Studies on skin-electrode ERG in the closed-eye state. Electroretinograms (ERG) were recorded using contact lens electrode and periorbital skin electrode in the opened- and closed-eye states in 15 volunteers. The implicit times of a-wave and b-wave were almost equal between recordings by contact lens electrode and those by skin electrode, when the tested eye was opened. Implicit times were prolonged when tested in the closed-eye state. In the opened-eye state, the b-wave amplitude by skin electrode was decreased to an extent of about 40%, compared to that by contact lens electrode. If repetitional stimuli of higher intensities were employed and responses were averaged, clinically satisfactory ERGs were recordable with skin electrodes in the closed-eye state.", "PMID": 438933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4361", "title": "Correspondence between psychological reports based on the Mini-Mult and the MMPI.", "content": "In order to assess the utility of the Mini-Mult with a university counseling center clientele, MMPI answer sheets of 10 students at the University of Miami Counseling Center were scored for both the MMPI and the Mini-Mult. Four judges completed psychological reports (Q-item questionnaires) based on the profiles. Correlations between judges' responses to MMPI and Mini-Mult profiles were calculated as an indication of the correspondence between the two tests. In addition, correlations between judges' responses to repeated presentations of MMPI profiles were calculated as an indication of the judges' reliability over time. The results do not support the use of the Mini-Mult with a university counseling center clientele.", "contents": "Correspondence between psychological reports based on the Mini-Mult and the MMPI. In order to assess the utility of the Mini-Mult with a university counseling center clientele, MMPI answer sheets of 10 students at the University of Miami Counseling Center were scored for both the MMPI and the Mini-Mult. Four judges completed psychological reports (Q-item questionnaires) based on the profiles. Correlations between judges' responses to MMPI and Mini-Mult profiles were calculated as an indication of the correspondence between the two tests. In addition, correlations between judges' responses to repeated presentations of MMPI profiles were calculated as an indication of the judges' reliability over time. The results do not support the use of the Mini-Mult with a university counseling center clientele.", "PMID": 438939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4362", "title": "Locus of control and behavior in treatment groups.", "content": "Studied the Rotter Locus of Control scale for effective prediction of behavior in small groups. Subjects were 205 male VA Hospital patients participating in self-directed groups who completed the AGCT, Psychological and Somatic Symptom Scales, and Rotter's I-E measure of locus of control. Group behavior was measured through sociometry and a Group Member Evaluation form. Three hypotheses were not supported: (a) Persons scoring high in the direction of internal control (internals) will be more likely to act to influence their social environment; (b) internals will be more active than externals in gathering and processing information in group discussions, and (c) internals will be more self-directed and less susceptible to being influenced by others. Two hypotheses were supported: (a) externals will express more somatic and psychological complaints than internals, and (b) externals will be perceived as behaving more defensively than internals. In contrast, intelligence was correlated with a large number of group process measures. Locus of control and intelligence measures predict different kinds of behavior in groups.", "contents": "Locus of control and behavior in treatment groups. Studied the Rotter Locus of Control scale for effective prediction of behavior in small groups. Subjects were 205 male VA Hospital patients participating in self-directed groups who completed the AGCT, Psychological and Somatic Symptom Scales, and Rotter's I-E measure of locus of control. Group behavior was measured through sociometry and a Group Member Evaluation form. Three hypotheses were not supported: (a) Persons scoring high in the direction of internal control (internals) will be more likely to act to influence their social environment; (b) internals will be more active than externals in gathering and processing information in group discussions, and (c) internals will be more self-directed and less susceptible to being influenced by others. Two hypotheses were supported: (a) externals will express more somatic and psychological complaints than internals, and (b) externals will be perceived as behaving more defensively than internals. In contrast, intelligence was correlated with a large number of group process measures. Locus of control and intelligence measures predict different kinds of behavior in groups.", "PMID": 438941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4363", "title": "Synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation of quaternary salts of 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and 3,6-dimethyl-6-phenyl-tetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazine.", "content": "Fifteen predominantly alkyl bromide quaternary salts of 1-substituted 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and 10 from 3,6-dimethyl-l-phenyltetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazine were synthesized. None was effective against the parasitic protozoan Eimeria tenella and the helminth trichostrongyle nematode. Nearly all inhibited Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria; maximum efficiency was obtained with nonyl through dodecyl bromide salt derivatives. Antifungal effectiveness paralleled these results. The oxazinium salt analogs were inhibitory in an in vitro peridontal microorganism screen. The decyl bromide derivative at 0.05% in drinking water prevented dental plaque and reduced calculus deposition in rats but not in hamsters fed cariogenic diets. A 0.01% concentration of the tetrahydropyridinium analog caused increased plaque in rats compared to nonmedicated control animals.", "contents": "Synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation of quaternary salts of 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and 3,6-dimethyl-6-phenyl-tetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazine. Fifteen predominantly alkyl bromide quaternary salts of 1-substituted 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and 10 from 3,6-dimethyl-l-phenyltetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazine were synthesized. None was effective against the parasitic protozoan Eimeria tenella and the helminth trichostrongyle nematode. Nearly all inhibited Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria; maximum efficiency was obtained with nonyl through dodecyl bromide salt derivatives. Antifungal effectiveness paralleled these results. The oxazinium salt analogs were inhibitory in an in vitro peridontal microorganism screen. The decyl bromide derivative at 0.05% in drinking water prevented dental plaque and reduced calculus deposition in rats but not in hamsters fed cariogenic diets. A 0.01% concentration of the tetrahydropyridinium analog caused increased plaque in rats compared to nonmedicated control animals.", "PMID": 438958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4364", "title": "Analysis of fludrocortisone acetate and its solid dosage forms by high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "A newly developed reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic assay and test method for determining content uniformity are described for fludrocortisone acetate. The method is stability indicating and separates most known degradation products and impurities. In addition, the method is simple, sensitive, accurate, and relatively free of interferences. The coefficient of variation for multiple weight assays is between 0.3 and 1.8%.", "contents": "Analysis of fludrocortisone acetate and its solid dosage forms by high-performance liquid chromatography. A newly developed reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic assay and test method for determining content uniformity are described for fludrocortisone acetate. The method is stability indicating and separates most known degradation products and impurities. In addition, the method is simple, sensitive, accurate, and relatively free of interferences. The coefficient of variation for multiple weight assays is between 0.3 and 1.8%.", "PMID": 438959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4365", "title": "Dielectric constants of solid-liquid and liquid-liquid systems as a function of composition.", "content": "The dielectric constant of a solid substance in the dissolved state may be found by using a solvent with a dielectric constant that remains invariable when the solid substance is dissolved. The slope values obtained from dielectric constant versus concentration plots of the solid substance in two solvents with different dielectric constants are extrapolated or interpolated. The dielectric constant of a solid substance in the dissolved state also can be found directly from the dielectric constants of solutions of the solid in one solvent at two concentrations. The dielectric constants are converted to polarizations, and the two values allow calculations of the polarizations of the solvent and solute separately. From the polarization of the solute, one can calculate its dielectric constant (in dissolved state). Such a procedure is correct only if the dielectric constant is concentration independent.", "contents": "Dielectric constants of solid-liquid and liquid-liquid systems as a function of composition. The dielectric constant of a solid substance in the dissolved state may be found by using a solvent with a dielectric constant that remains invariable when the solid substance is dissolved. The slope values obtained from dielectric constant versus concentration plots of the solid substance in two solvents with different dielectric constants are extrapolated or interpolated. The dielectric constant of a solid substance in the dissolved state also can be found directly from the dielectric constants of solutions of the solid in one solvent at two concentrations. The dielectric constants are converted to polarizations, and the two values allow calculations of the polarizations of the solvent and solute separately. From the polarization of the solute, one can calculate its dielectric constant (in dissolved state). Such a procedure is correct only if the dielectric constant is concentration independent.", "PMID": 438960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4366", "title": "Acid dissociation and metal complex formation constants of penicillamine, cysteine, and antiarthritic gold complexes at simulated biological conditions.", "content": "Ionization constants for acid functions of D-penicillamine, L-cysteine, thiomalic acid, and thioglucose were measured by pH titration at 37 degrees and 0.15 M ionic strength. Chelate formation constants for these ligands with calcium(II), iron(III), and gold(I) were then determined under the same conditions chosen to approximate the in vivo situation. Only iron(III) formed both 1:1 and 1:2 chelates with D-penicillamine, L-cysteine, and thiomalate; calcium formed weak and gold strong 1:1 complexes with all ligands studied. Because of precipitate formation, the stability constants for the systems thioglucose-iron(III), D-penicillamine-gold(I), and L-cysteine-gold(I) had to be determined indirectly with thiomalic acid as the competing ligand. The in vivo fate of antiarthritic gold(I) compounds remained uncertain, but gold(I) chelates probably persist as such for extended periods.", "contents": "Acid dissociation and metal complex formation constants of penicillamine, cysteine, and antiarthritic gold complexes at simulated biological conditions. Ionization constants for acid functions of D-penicillamine, L-cysteine, thiomalic acid, and thioglucose were measured by pH titration at 37 degrees and 0.15 M ionic strength. Chelate formation constants for these ligands with calcium(II), iron(III), and gold(I) were then determined under the same conditions chosen to approximate the in vivo situation. Only iron(III) formed both 1:1 and 1:2 chelates with D-penicillamine, L-cysteine, and thiomalate; calcium formed weak and gold strong 1:1 complexes with all ligands studied. Because of precipitate formation, the stability constants for the systems thioglucose-iron(III), D-penicillamine-gold(I), and L-cysteine-gold(I) had to be determined indirectly with thiomalic acid as the competing ligand. The in vivo fate of antiarthritic gold(I) compounds remained uncertain, but gold(I) chelates probably persist as such for extended periods.", "PMID": 438961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4367", "title": "Predictability of warfarin dose requirements: theoretical considerations.", "content": "The theoretical basis of the predictability of warfarin maintenance dose requirements was evaluated using computer-generated hypothetical patient responses to a 10-mg/day \"loading\" dose regimen. Correlations between these responses and projected maintenance dose requirements were evaluated statistically, and a significant relationship was identified.", "contents": "Predictability of warfarin dose requirements: theoretical considerations. The theoretical basis of the predictability of warfarin maintenance dose requirements was evaluated using computer-generated hypothetical patient responses to a 10-mg/day \"loading\" dose regimen. Correlations between these responses and projected maintenance dose requirements were evaluated statistically, and a significant relationship was identified.", "PMID": 438962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4368", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of topically applied pilocarpine in the albino rabbit eye.", "content": "The temporal and spatial pattern of [3H]-pilocarpine nitrate distribution in the albino rabbit eye following topical administration was determined. A four-compartment caternary chain model describing this disposition corresponds to the precorneal area, the cornea, the aqueous humor, and the lens and vitreous. Simultaneous computer fitting of data from tissue corresponding to some compartments in the model supported the proposed model. Additional support was provided by the excellent correlation between predicted and observed values in multiple-dosing studies. Several important aspects of ocular drug disposition are evident from the model. The extensive parallel elimination at the absorption site gives rise to an apparent absorption rate constant that is one to two orders of magnitude larger than the true absorption rate constant. In addition, aqueous flow accounts for most of the drug removal. Thus, major effects on absorption and elimination, independent of the drug structure, suggest the possibility of similar pharmacokinetics for vastly different drugs.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of topically applied pilocarpine in the albino rabbit eye. The temporal and spatial pattern of [3H]-pilocarpine nitrate distribution in the albino rabbit eye following topical administration was determined. A four-compartment caternary chain model describing this disposition corresponds to the precorneal area, the cornea, the aqueous humor, and the lens and vitreous. Simultaneous computer fitting of data from tissue corresponding to some compartments in the model supported the proposed model. Additional support was provided by the excellent correlation between predicted and observed values in multiple-dosing studies. Several important aspects of ocular drug disposition are evident from the model. The extensive parallel elimination at the absorption site gives rise to an apparent absorption rate constant that is one to two orders of magnitude larger than the true absorption rate constant. In addition, aqueous flow accounts for most of the drug removal. Thus, major effects on absorption and elimination, independent of the drug structure, suggest the possibility of similar pharmacokinetics for vastly different drugs.", "PMID": 438963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4369", "title": "Rapid determination of theophylline in serum by electron-capture GLC.", "content": "A rapid and sensitive GLC procedure was developed for the determination of theophylline in serum. After extraction from serum with ethyl acetate, theophylline and the internal standard were derivatized with pentafluorobenzyl bromide under alkaline conditions. The derivatives were quantitated by electron-capture detection. The method has a sensitivity of 0.1 microgram/ml with a 0.1-ml serum sample.", "contents": "Rapid determination of theophylline in serum by electron-capture GLC. A rapid and sensitive GLC procedure was developed for the determination of theophylline in serum. After extraction from serum with ethyl acetate, theophylline and the internal standard were derivatized with pentafluorobenzyl bromide under alkaline conditions. The derivatives were quantitated by electron-capture detection. The method has a sensitivity of 0.1 microgram/ml with a 0.1-ml serum sample.", "PMID": 438964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4370", "title": "Sensitive GLC assay for pemoline in biological fluids using nitrogen-specific detection.", "content": "Extractive alkylation was used to determine intact pemoline in serum and urine. Pemoline was extracted into methylene chloride as an ion-pair with tetrapentylammonium hydroxide under alkaline conditions. Evaporation of the solvent at 70 degrees in the presence of methyl iodide yielded the N,N-dimethylpemoline derivative. GLC analysis was performed on a 5% FFAP column with nitrogen-specific detection. Sensitivity was 0.05 microgram/ml with 1 ml of urine of serum. Calibration curves were linear to at least 4 microgram/ml with serum and 15 microgram/ml with urine. Precision was excellent with a pooled relative standard deviation of +/- 7.5% for serum samples in a 0.1-4 microgram/ml range.", "contents": "Sensitive GLC assay for pemoline in biological fluids using nitrogen-specific detection. Extractive alkylation was used to determine intact pemoline in serum and urine. Pemoline was extracted into methylene chloride as an ion-pair with tetrapentylammonium hydroxide under alkaline conditions. Evaporation of the solvent at 70 degrees in the presence of methyl iodide yielded the N,N-dimethylpemoline derivative. GLC analysis was performed on a 5% FFAP column with nitrogen-specific detection. Sensitivity was 0.05 microgram/ml with 1 ml of urine of serum. Calibration curves were linear to at least 4 microgram/ml with serum and 15 microgram/ml with urine. Precision was excellent with a pooled relative standard deviation of +/- 7.5% for serum samples in a 0.1-4 microgram/ml range.", "PMID": 438965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4371", "title": "Quinidine and dihydroquinidine interactions in human plasma.", "content": "The protein-binding characteristics of dihydroquinidine, a known impurity in drug grade quinidine, in human plasma and the effects of dihydroquinidine on quinidine interactions with these plasma constituents were studied by equilibrium dialysis. In the plasma concentration range of 1.75-23.0 mg/liter, dihydroquinidine binding was similar to the binding observed with quinidine. The data suggested the presence of a single class of binding sites for both compounds in the plasma drug concentration range and samples studied. The mean values for the association constant, K, and the total concentration of binding sites, nPt, for dihydroquinidine were 4.75 +/- 0.67 X 10(4) M-1 and 5.78 +/- 0.17 x 10(-5) M, respectively. The corresponding values for quinidine were 4.78 +/- 1.00 x 10(4) M-1 and 5.65 +/- 0.48 x 10(-5) M. In the presence of 5 and 10% (of total alkaloid content) dihydroquinidine, the plasma concentration of unbound quinidine did not change significantly. At a 20% level of dihydroquinidine, however, an increase in unbound quinidine was observed (p less than 0.05). The elevations in free quinidine concentrations were directly related to the level of dihydroquinidine present. The results of this study indicate that the interactions between dihydroquinidine and quinidine for binding sites on human plasma proteins are competitive.", "contents": "Quinidine and dihydroquinidine interactions in human plasma. The protein-binding characteristics of dihydroquinidine, a known impurity in drug grade quinidine, in human plasma and the effects of dihydroquinidine on quinidine interactions with these plasma constituents were studied by equilibrium dialysis. In the plasma concentration range of 1.75-23.0 mg/liter, dihydroquinidine binding was similar to the binding observed with quinidine. The data suggested the presence of a single class of binding sites for both compounds in the plasma drug concentration range and samples studied. The mean values for the association constant, K, and the total concentration of binding sites, nPt, for dihydroquinidine were 4.75 +/- 0.67 X 10(4) M-1 and 5.78 +/- 0.17 x 10(-5) M, respectively. The corresponding values for quinidine were 4.78 +/- 1.00 x 10(4) M-1 and 5.65 +/- 0.48 x 10(-5) M. In the presence of 5 and 10% (of total alkaloid content) dihydroquinidine, the plasma concentration of unbound quinidine did not change significantly. At a 20% level of dihydroquinidine, however, an increase in unbound quinidine was observed (p less than 0.05). The elevations in free quinidine concentrations were directly related to the level of dihydroquinidine present. The results of this study indicate that the interactions between dihydroquinidine and quinidine for binding sites on human plasma proteins are competitive.", "PMID": 438966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4372", "title": "Improved delivery of methoxsalen.", "content": "Significant improvement in the effective bioavailability of methoxsalen was achieved when it was administered to rats and dogs in a solution as compared to a suspension. Much earlier and higher peak levels were observed for the solution in both animals. The possible impact of these observations on current use of this agent for psoriasis treatment is discussed.", "contents": "Improved delivery of methoxsalen. Significant improvement in the effective bioavailability of methoxsalen was achieved when it was administered to rats and dogs in a solution as compared to a suspension. Much earlier and higher peak levels were observed for the solution in both animals. The possible impact of these observations on current use of this agent for psoriasis treatment is discussed.", "PMID": 438967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4373", "title": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of amoxicillin in urine.", "content": "A rapid and specific high-pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay was developed for the simultaneous determination of amoxicillin and its pencilloic acid metabolite in urine. The two compounds, assayed directly in urine or after dilution with water-methanol (85:15), are separated by reversed-phase chromatography and quantitated spectrofluorometrically following postcolumn derivatization with fluorescamine. Linear calibration curves were measured in the ranges of 25-250 and 50-400 ng injected for amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite, respectively. The sensitivity limit of the assay is 2.5-5.0 microgram/ml of urine for amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite. Urine samples (0-8 hr) taken from six subjects following single 250-mg po doses and assayed by HPLC showed ranges of cumulative percent of the dose excreted as amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite (reported as amoxicillin equivalents) of 50.2-68.0, and 21.6-30.0%, respectively. An excellent correlation (r = 0.985) was demonstrated for the measurement of amoxicillin concentrations by the HPLC and microbiological assays.", "contents": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of amoxicillin in urine. A rapid and specific high-pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay was developed for the simultaneous determination of amoxicillin and its pencilloic acid metabolite in urine. The two compounds, assayed directly in urine or after dilution with water-methanol (85:15), are separated by reversed-phase chromatography and quantitated spectrofluorometrically following postcolumn derivatization with fluorescamine. Linear calibration curves were measured in the ranges of 25-250 and 50-400 ng injected for amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite, respectively. The sensitivity limit of the assay is 2.5-5.0 microgram/ml of urine for amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite. Urine samples (0-8 hr) taken from six subjects following single 250-mg po doses and assayed by HPLC showed ranges of cumulative percent of the dose excreted as amoxicillin and the penicilloic acid metabolite (reported as amoxicillin equivalents) of 50.2-68.0, and 21.6-30.0%, respectively. An excellent correlation (r = 0.985) was demonstrated for the measurement of amoxicillin concentrations by the HPLC and microbiological assays.", "PMID": 438968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4374", "title": "Antibacterial and antifungal activities of isatin N-Mannich bases.", "content": "The antimicrobial and antifungal activities of 29 congeneric isatin N-Mannich bases were investigated by testing against standard test microorganisms and 21 pathogenic Gram-negative microorganisms. Considerable growth inhibition of Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts and slight inhibition of Gram-positive bacteria resulted when they were treated with the various N-Mannich bases of isatin and 5-nitroisatin, respectively.", "contents": "Antibacterial and antifungal activities of isatin N-Mannich bases. The antimicrobial and antifungal activities of 29 congeneric isatin N-Mannich bases were investigated by testing against standard test microorganisms and 21 pathogenic Gram-negative microorganisms. Considerable growth inhibition of Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts and slight inhibition of Gram-positive bacteria resulted when they were treated with the various N-Mannich bases of isatin and 5-nitroisatin, respectively.", "PMID": 438969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4375", "title": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships and dipole moments of anticonvulsants and CNS depressants.", "content": "The anticonvulsant and CNS-depressant activities of 16 commercially available antiepileptics were subjected to regression analysis. For the maximal electroshock seizure test and pentylenetetrazol seizure threshold test, good correlations were obtained only after diazepam, clonazepam, and carbamazepam were deleted; for the median toxic dose (rotorod ataxia), all 16 compounds can be included in one single equation using log MW, log P, and dipole moment (mu) terms. For the anticonvulsant activities of 7-substituted 1,4-benzodiazepinones, a parabolic equation of pi combined with the Hammett sigma constant gave fair correlations for most derivatives examined in three different tests. Based upon the correlations obtained, further molecular modifications are suggested. The dipole moments of seven clinically used antiepileptic drugs were measured in 1,4-dioxane for the first time.", "contents": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships and dipole moments of anticonvulsants and CNS depressants. The anticonvulsant and CNS-depressant activities of 16 commercially available antiepileptics were subjected to regression analysis. For the maximal electroshock seizure test and pentylenetetrazol seizure threshold test, good correlations were obtained only after diazepam, clonazepam, and carbamazepam were deleted; for the median toxic dose (rotorod ataxia), all 16 compounds can be included in one single equation using log MW, log P, and dipole moment (mu) terms. For the anticonvulsant activities of 7-substituted 1,4-benzodiazepinones, a parabolic equation of pi combined with the Hammett sigma constant gave fair correlations for most derivatives examined in three different tests. Based upon the correlations obtained, further molecular modifications are suggested. The dipole moments of seven clinically used antiepileptic drugs were measured in 1,4-dioxane for the first time.", "PMID": 438970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4376", "title": "Fourier transform carbon-13 NMR spectra of ampyrone and aminopyrine.", "content": "The natural abundance 13C-NMR spectra of ampyrone and aminopyrine were obtained using the pulse Fourier transform technique. The chemical shifts were assigned with the help of the chemical shift theory, multiplicity generated in single-frequency off-resonance decoupled spectra, relaxation time, and comparison with structurally related compounds.", "contents": "Fourier transform carbon-13 NMR spectra of ampyrone and aminopyrine. The natural abundance 13C-NMR spectra of ampyrone and aminopyrine were obtained using the pulse Fourier transform technique. The chemical shifts were assigned with the help of the chemical shift theory, multiplicity generated in single-frequency off-resonance decoupled spectra, relaxation time, and comparison with structurally related compounds.", "PMID": 438972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4377", "title": "Evaluation of adsorption from dispersion charge profile.", "content": "The evaluation of adsorption behavior from the charge profile of an adsorbent dispersion determined as a function of the adsorbate concentration was investigated by the streaming current measurement, using methylene blue and erythrosine as adsorbates and activated charcoal, microcrystalline cellulose, and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone as adsorbents. Adsorption capacity was evaluated using streaming current versus solute concentration plots of dye solutions and of corresponding dye solutions equilibrated with the adsorbent. It was also determined by adsorption isotherm measurement and application of the Langmuir equation. Good agreement was obtained between the adsorption capacity values from streaming current data and adsorption isotherm measurements for microcrystalline cellulose, suggesting that adsorption here was a surface phenomenon without water-soluble extractives affecting particle charge. Similar agreement was not obtained for charcoal adsorption, and this result was attributed to the unusual adsorption behavior of charcoal. Since polyvinylpolypyrrolidone gave a dispersion with high particle charge, the streaming current method could not be used with this system. The charge profile could be useful in characterizing powders for unusual adsorption behavior and possible water-soluble extractives as well as for surface area estimation in the absence of these factors.", "contents": "Evaluation of adsorption from dispersion charge profile. The evaluation of adsorption behavior from the charge profile of an adsorbent dispersion determined as a function of the adsorbate concentration was investigated by the streaming current measurement, using methylene blue and erythrosine as adsorbates and activated charcoal, microcrystalline cellulose, and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone as adsorbents. Adsorption capacity was evaluated using streaming current versus solute concentration plots of dye solutions and of corresponding dye solutions equilibrated with the adsorbent. It was also determined by adsorption isotherm measurement and application of the Langmuir equation. Good agreement was obtained between the adsorption capacity values from streaming current data and adsorption isotherm measurements for microcrystalline cellulose, suggesting that adsorption here was a surface phenomenon without water-soluble extractives affecting particle charge. Similar agreement was not obtained for charcoal adsorption, and this result was attributed to the unusual adsorption behavior of charcoal. Since polyvinylpolypyrrolidone gave a dispersion with high particle charge, the streaming current method could not be used with this system. The charge profile could be useful in characterizing powders for unusual adsorption behavior and possible water-soluble extractives as well as for surface area estimation in the absence of these factors.", "PMID": 438973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4378", "title": "Microencapsulation of bitolterol for controlled release and its effect on bronchodilator and heart rate activities in dogs.", "content": "Spheronized cores produced by extrusion and marumerization were microencapsulated with ethylcellulose by organic phase separation to produce beads exhibiting controlled-release characteristics. In vitro dissolution studies indicated that the drug was released as a first-order model and that the release rates were proportional to the amount of film on the bead. The bronchodilator activity in the anesthetized dog and the heart rate effect in the unanesthetized trained dog were evaluated. Microencapsulated beads were prepared which produced controlled release as assayed by bronchodilation. The heart rate increases induced by the controlled-release formulations were gradual in onset, and the total increase in heart rate over a 6-hr period was less than that associated with the plain drug powder.", "contents": "Microencapsulation of bitolterol for controlled release and its effect on bronchodilator and heart rate activities in dogs. Spheronized cores produced by extrusion and marumerization were microencapsulated with ethylcellulose by organic phase separation to produce beads exhibiting controlled-release characteristics. In vitro dissolution studies indicated that the drug was released as a first-order model and that the release rates were proportional to the amount of film on the bead. The bronchodilator activity in the anesthetized dog and the heart rate effect in the unanesthetized trained dog were evaluated. Microencapsulated beads were prepared which produced controlled release as assayed by bronchodilation. The heart rate increases induced by the controlled-release formulations were gradual in onset, and the total increase in heart rate over a 6-hr period was less than that associated with the plain drug powder.", "PMID": 438974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4379", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of ketoprofen in blood and urine.", "content": "A rapid, simple determination was developed for ketoprofen in biological fluids using high-performance liquid chromatography. The method requires selective extraction of this antirheumatic medicament and an internal standard with ether from the previously acidified plasma and urine. After evaporation of the ether, the residue is taken up by methanol and analyzed by reversed-phase liquid chromatography with detection at 254 nm. A concentration as low as 0.1 microgram/ml can be determined with a 0.5-ml sample.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of ketoprofen in blood and urine. A rapid, simple determination was developed for ketoprofen in biological fluids using high-performance liquid chromatography. The method requires selective extraction of this antirheumatic medicament and an internal standard with ether from the previously acidified plasma and urine. After evaporation of the ether, the residue is taken up by methanol and analyzed by reversed-phase liquid chromatography with detection at 254 nm. A concentration as low as 0.1 microgram/ml can be determined with a 0.5-ml sample.", "PMID": 438975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4380", "title": "Surfactant solutions as test liquids for measurement of critical surface tension.", "content": "Contact angles of various liquids and surfactant solutions on polytef and paraffin were measured. Critical surface tension values were obtained by extrapolation of plots of cosine of the contact angles versus corresponding surface tension values. Contact angles measured using polyoxyethylene octylphenols produced linear Zisman plots and yielded critical surface tensions that agreed with accepted values. This liquid series provides a reasonable approach to the measurement of critical surface tension for solid drugs that are soluble in organic liquids but relatively insoluble in water.", "contents": "Surfactant solutions as test liquids for measurement of critical surface tension. Contact angles of various liquids and surfactant solutions on polytef and paraffin were measured. Critical surface tension values were obtained by extrapolation of plots of cosine of the contact angles versus corresponding surface tension values. Contact angles measured using polyoxyethylene octylphenols produced linear Zisman plots and yielded critical surface tensions that agreed with accepted values. This liquid series provides a reasonable approach to the measurement of critical surface tension for solid drugs that are soluble in organic liquids but relatively insoluble in water.", "PMID": 438976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4381", "title": "Critical surface tensions of pharmaceutical solids.", "content": "Advancing contact angles measured on compacts of several drugs by the sessile drop method and also by penetration through a column of drug granules were used to find the critical surface tension of the drugs. After liquid was delivered at a very slow rate, the contact angle of sessile drops decreased with time, but use of a consistent method of timing always led to the same value for critical surface tension. Results from penetration studies and work on compacts were in agreement, provided that the surfaces of the compacts were smooth and highly reflective. Critical surface tension of the six drugs, three analgesics and three sulfonamides, ranged from 31 to 33 dynes/cm. The critical surface tension of mixtures of phenacetin and microcrystalline cellulose was not a linear function of the relative surface fractions of the two materials. If the surface contained 25% or more of phenacetin, the critical surface tension barely differed from that of pure phenacetin.", "contents": "Critical surface tensions of pharmaceutical solids. Advancing contact angles measured on compacts of several drugs by the sessile drop method and also by penetration through a column of drug granules were used to find the critical surface tension of the drugs. After liquid was delivered at a very slow rate, the contact angle of sessile drops decreased with time, but use of a consistent method of timing always led to the same value for critical surface tension. Results from penetration studies and work on compacts were in agreement, provided that the surfaces of the compacts were smooth and highly reflective. Critical surface tension of the six drugs, three analgesics and three sulfonamides, ranged from 31 to 33 dynes/cm. The critical surface tension of mixtures of phenacetin and microcrystalline cellulose was not a linear function of the relative surface fractions of the two materials. If the surface contained 25% or more of phenacetin, the critical surface tension barely differed from that of pure phenacetin.", "PMID": 438977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4382", "title": "Stability-indicating assay for vidarabine.", "content": "A physicochemical procedure for the analysis of vidarabine in aqueous parenteral formulations was needed to assure potency and to define stability. Concurrent with the development of this method, its decomposition products and route in aqueous solution were determined. A quantitative procedure was developed to determine intact drug in the presence of decomposition products, and the results obtained were validated by microbial assay. Spectral (UV and polarimetric) and TLC evidence indicated that, in aqueous solution, hydrolysis without racemization occurs, yielding adenine and arabinose. The sensitivity of the method to decomposition is improved by ion-exchange separation of adenine and drug before UV measurement. Analysis of partially decomposed solutions of the drug by both ion-exchange and microbiological methods gave comparable results.", "contents": "Stability-indicating assay for vidarabine. A physicochemical procedure for the analysis of vidarabine in aqueous parenteral formulations was needed to assure potency and to define stability. Concurrent with the development of this method, its decomposition products and route in aqueous solution were determined. A quantitative procedure was developed to determine intact drug in the presence of decomposition products, and the results obtained were validated by microbial assay. Spectral (UV and polarimetric) and TLC evidence indicated that, in aqueous solution, hydrolysis without racemization occurs, yielding adenine and arabinose. The sensitivity of the method to decomposition is improved by ion-exchange separation of adenine and drug before UV measurement. Analysis of partially decomposed solutions of the drug by both ion-exchange and microbiological methods gave comparable results.", "PMID": 438978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4383", "title": "GLC determination of trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride dosage forms.", "content": "A rapid, sensitive, and specific GLC method for the quantitation of trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride in various pharmaceutical dosage forms is described. The procedure involves chloroform extraction of the active ingredient from a weakly acidic solution, followed by GLC determination using a 3% methyl silicone column. The specificity of the system in relation to several compendial drug analogs also is reported.", "contents": "GLC determination of trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride dosage forms. A rapid, sensitive, and specific GLC method for the quantitation of trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride in various pharmaceutical dosage forms is described. The procedure involves chloroform extraction of the active ingredient from a weakly acidic solution, followed by GLC determination using a 3% methyl silicone column. The specificity of the system in relation to several compendial drug analogs also is reported.", "PMID": 438979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4384", "title": "Simultaneous GLC determination of methyl salicylate and menthol in a topical analgesic formulation.", "content": "A simultaneous GLC determination for methyl salicylate and menthol in a topical analgesic formulation is reported. n-Nonadecane is used as the internal standard. The method is rapid, accurate, precise, and selective in the presence of salicylic acid and ethyl salicylate.", "contents": "Simultaneous GLC determination of methyl salicylate and menthol in a topical analgesic formulation. A simultaneous GLC determination for methyl salicylate and menthol in a topical analgesic formulation is reported. n-Nonadecane is used as the internal standard. The method is rapid, accurate, precise, and selective in the presence of salicylic acid and ethyl salicylate.", "PMID": 438980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4385", "title": "Analysis of dienestrol and its dosage forms by high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis is described for dienestrol as a drug substance and in cream, foam, and tablet dosage forms. After incorporation of the drug or dosage form into a solvent mixture containing an internal standard, biphenyl, an aliquot was chromatographed using a reversed-phase medium, followed by UV spectrophotometric detection at 254 nm. The response of the chromatographic system was linear over a concentration range corresponding to 50-200% of the labeled amount of dienestrol. Satisfactory accuracy and precision were confirmed by analyzing cream by the standard addition method. The advantages of the HPLC method are its simplicity, speed, and sensitivity, which permit direct analysis of single-dose quantities of dienestrol.", "contents": "Analysis of dienestrol and its dosage forms by high-performance liquid chromatography. A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis is described for dienestrol as a drug substance and in cream, foam, and tablet dosage forms. After incorporation of the drug or dosage form into a solvent mixture containing an internal standard, biphenyl, an aliquot was chromatographed using a reversed-phase medium, followed by UV spectrophotometric detection at 254 nm. The response of the chromatographic system was linear over a concentration range corresponding to 50-200% of the labeled amount of dienestrol. Satisfactory accuracy and precision were confirmed by analyzing cream by the standard addition method. The advantages of the HPLC method are its simplicity, speed, and sensitivity, which permit direct analysis of single-dose quantities of dienestrol.", "PMID": 438981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4386", "title": "Improved electron-capture GLC determination of alprenolol and oxprenolol in serum using a wall-coated open tubular column.", "content": "An accurate, rapid, and sensitive GLC determination of alprenolol and oxprenolol in serum is described. This method combines an electron-capture detector with a wall-coated open tubular column. The lowest detectable amount of the halogenated (heptafluoroacyl) derivatives of alprenolol and oxprenolol is 2 pg. The high resolving power and the rapid elution time of the wall-coated open tubular column dramatically improve the performance (accuracy and sensitivity) of the conventional electron-capture detector and packed column system in these determinations. This method allows the use of small volumes of sample (100-200 microliter), does not require redistilled reagents, and has a simplified extraction procedure.", "contents": "Improved electron-capture GLC determination of alprenolol and oxprenolol in serum using a wall-coated open tubular column. An accurate, rapid, and sensitive GLC determination of alprenolol and oxprenolol in serum is described. This method combines an electron-capture detector with a wall-coated open tubular column. The lowest detectable amount of the halogenated (heptafluoroacyl) derivatives of alprenolol and oxprenolol is 2 pg. The high resolving power and the rapid elution time of the wall-coated open tubular column dramatically improve the performance (accuracy and sensitivity) of the conventional electron-capture detector and packed column system in these determinations. This method allows the use of small volumes of sample (100-200 microliter), does not require redistilled reagents, and has a simplified extraction procedure.", "PMID": 438982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4387", "title": "New spectrophotometric determination of inorganic bromide and chloride salts in aqueous solutions.", "content": "A new method for the determination of inorganic salts of chloride and bromide is described. The method is based on the facts that iodine forms complexes with the anions and that these complexes absorb strongly in the UV region. The molar absorptivities of I2Br- at 265 nm and I2Cl- at 245 nm were calculated to be 3.27 X 10(4) and 2.3 X 10(4) M-1 cm-1, respectively.", "contents": "New spectrophotometric determination of inorganic bromide and chloride salts in aqueous solutions. A new method for the determination of inorganic salts of chloride and bromide is described. The method is based on the facts that iodine forms complexes with the anions and that these complexes absorb strongly in the UV region. The molar absorptivities of I2Br- at 265 nm and I2Cl- at 245 nm were calculated to be 3.27 X 10(4) and 2.3 X 10(4) M-1 cm-1, respectively.", "PMID": 438983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4388", "title": "Stability of 10-acetylphenothiazine.", "content": "The degradation kinetics of 10-acetylphenothiazine were studied after isolation and identification of its degradation products, phenothiazine, phenothiazine-5-oxide, 3H-phenothiazine-3-one, and 7-(10'-phenothiazinyl)-3H-phenothiazine-3-one. The acetyl group was not present in any degradation product. The degradation rate was independent of oxygen but highly pH dependent, indicating a specific hydrogen-ion-catalyzed hydrolysis of 10-acetylphenothiazine to give phenothiazine, which was oxidized. The experimental values for the phenothiazine concentration were in good agreement with values calculated on the basis of this assumption, both in the presence and absence of oxygen.", "contents": "Stability of 10-acetylphenothiazine. The degradation kinetics of 10-acetylphenothiazine were studied after isolation and identification of its degradation products, phenothiazine, phenothiazine-5-oxide, 3H-phenothiazine-3-one, and 7-(10'-phenothiazinyl)-3H-phenothiazine-3-one. The acetyl group was not present in any degradation product. The degradation rate was independent of oxygen but highly pH dependent, indicating a specific hydrogen-ion-catalyzed hydrolysis of 10-acetylphenothiazine to give phenothiazine, which was oxidized. The experimental values for the phenothiazine concentration were in good agreement with values calculated on the basis of this assumption, both in the presence and absence of oxygen.", "PMID": 438984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4389", "title": "Drug absorption from in situ rat small intestine during metoclopramide administration.", "content": "The effect of metoclopramide on the absorption of drugs in solution in the small intestinal lumen of rats in situ was studied. Metoclopramide in doses up to 50 mg/kg sc did not significantly modify the disappearance of isoniazid and quinidine from the small intestinal lumen. At the end of the absorption experiments, quinidine in the whole blood of the experimental animals was increased after metoclopramide. The blood level did not correlate to the drug disappearance from the intestinal lumen. The results probably differ from those obtained when drugs are given orally to subjects treated with metoclopramide.", "contents": "Drug absorption from in situ rat small intestine during metoclopramide administration. The effect of metoclopramide on the absorption of drugs in solution in the small intestinal lumen of rats in situ was studied. Metoclopramide in doses up to 50 mg/kg sc did not significantly modify the disappearance of isoniazid and quinidine from the small intestinal lumen. At the end of the absorption experiments, quinidine in the whole blood of the experimental animals was increased after metoclopramide. The blood level did not correlate to the drug disappearance from the intestinal lumen. The results probably differ from those obtained when drugs are given orally to subjects treated with metoclopramide.", "PMID": 438985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4390", "title": "Synthesis of 3-hydroxy-3-phenacyloxindole analogs.", "content": "Substituted isatins and substituted acetophenones were condensed to give analogs of 3-hydroxy-3-phenacyloxindole. These alcohols were dehydrated, and the alkene was reduced. None of the products had the level of anticonvulsant activity exhibited by the parent compound.", "contents": "Synthesis of 3-hydroxy-3-phenacyloxindole analogs. Substituted isatins and substituted acetophenones were condensed to give analogs of 3-hydroxy-3-phenacyloxindole. These alcohols were dehydrated, and the alkene was reduced. None of the products had the level of anticonvulsant activity exhibited by the parent compound.", "PMID": 438986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4391", "title": "Synthesis of methyl 1-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate.", "content": "Methyl 1-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate was prepared by alkylation of methyl hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate with alpha,3,4-trichlorotoluene. The compound showed significant antifungal activity when challenged by a spectrum of pathogenic yeast species in a minimum inhibitory concentration test. It was active against some dermatophytic fungi and Aspergillus niger.", "contents": "Synthesis of methyl 1-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate. Methyl 1-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate was prepared by alkylation of methyl hexahydro-2,3-dioxo-4-pyridinecarboxylate with alpha,3,4-trichlorotoluene. The compound showed significant antifungal activity when challenged by a spectrum of pathogenic yeast species in a minimum inhibitory concentration test. It was active against some dermatophytic fungi and Aspergillus niger.", "PMID": 438987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4392", "title": "Rapid, stability-indicating, high-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of theophylline, guaifenesin, and benzoic acid in liquid and solid pharmaceutical dosage forms.", "content": "Theophylline, guaifenesin, and benzoic acid were determined by reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography without interference from active and/or vehicle decomposition. A degradation product of sucrose, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, can be identified and quantified in liquid samples simultaneously.", "contents": "Rapid, stability-indicating, high-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of theophylline, guaifenesin, and benzoic acid in liquid and solid pharmaceutical dosage forms. Theophylline, guaifenesin, and benzoic acid were determined by reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography without interference from active and/or vehicle decomposition. A degradation product of sucrose, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, can be identified and quantified in liquid samples simultaneously.", "PMID": 438988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4393", "title": "Influence of neuronal activity levels on the cytotoxic effects of guanethidine.", "content": "Reduction of activity levels in the noradrenergic innervation of the iris of the rat by decentralization of the superior cervical ganglion resulted in a marked increase in sensitivity of these fibers to damage by chronic guanethidine treatment (15 mg/kg/day) as shown by fluorescence histochemistry. Guanethidine also had an increased cytotoxic effect on the decentralized nerve cell bodies. These results suggest that the relative inactivity of male \"short\" noradrenergic neurons may contribute to their sensitivity to damage by guanethidine. The nature of the damage produced in other tissues by this dose of guanethidine indicates that levels of neuronal activity are not the only factor determining sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of this drug.", "contents": "Influence of neuronal activity levels on the cytotoxic effects of guanethidine. Reduction of activity levels in the noradrenergic innervation of the iris of the rat by decentralization of the superior cervical ganglion resulted in a marked increase in sensitivity of these fibers to damage by chronic guanethidine treatment (15 mg/kg/day) as shown by fluorescence histochemistry. Guanethidine also had an increased cytotoxic effect on the decentralized nerve cell bodies. These results suggest that the relative inactivity of male \"short\" noradrenergic neurons may contribute to their sensitivity to damage by guanethidine. The nature of the damage produced in other tissues by this dose of guanethidine indicates that levels of neuronal activity are not the only factor determining sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of this drug.", "PMID": 438995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4394", "title": "Effect of acute smoke exposure on hepatic protein synthesis.", "content": "In vivo hepatic protein synthesis was monitored in female rats under control and smoke-exposed conditions. During the 15 min period after i.v. administration of [3H]proline protein synthesis was 206 +/- 35 nmol of proline per mg of DNA for sham-control animals. When animals were subjected to acute exposure to cigarette smoke, protein synthesis was inhibited and the extent of inhibition was positively correlated with the dosage of smoke (32%, 15 puffs; 66%, 60 puffs). The inhibitory effect of whole smoke on protein synthesis was unaltered by passing the smoke through either charcoal or cambridge filters. Carbon monoxide in smoke is not removed by either type of filter. At a level comparable to that in cigarette smoke carbon monoxide depressed hepatic protein synthesis to the same extent as did whole or filtered smoke.", "contents": "Effect of acute smoke exposure on hepatic protein synthesis. In vivo hepatic protein synthesis was monitored in female rats under control and smoke-exposed conditions. During the 15 min period after i.v. administration of [3H]proline protein synthesis was 206 +/- 35 nmol of proline per mg of DNA for sham-control animals. When animals were subjected to acute exposure to cigarette smoke, protein synthesis was inhibited and the extent of inhibition was positively correlated with the dosage of smoke (32%, 15 puffs; 66%, 60 puffs). The inhibitory effect of whole smoke on protein synthesis was unaltered by passing the smoke through either charcoal or cambridge filters. Carbon monoxide in smoke is not removed by either type of filter. At a level comparable to that in cigarette smoke carbon monoxide depressed hepatic protein synthesis to the same extent as did whole or filtered smoke.", "PMID": 438996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4395", "title": "Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on renal excretion of sodium and water, and on body fluid volume in rats.", "content": "Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on urine volume and urinary sodium excretion, and on plasma volume and extracellular fluid volume were examined in conscious rats. The basal urine volume and urinary sodium excretion were decreased and the increased urine volume and urinary sodium excretion elicited by saline load (25 ml/kg) and by hydrochlorothiazide (10 mg/kg) were inhibited after oral administration of NSAID in doses which inhibited the rat carrageenin-induced hind paw edema (indomethacin, 1--10 mg/kg; tolmetin, 3--30 mg/kg; phenylbutazone, 3--30 mg/kg; aspirin, 30--300 mg/kg), but aminopyrine (30--300 mg/kg) did not show such an effect. The inhibitory activity on renal function was diminished gradually with repeated administration of NSAID. NSAID (indomethacin, 3 mg/kg; tolmetin, 10 mg/kg; phenoxybenzamin, 10 mg/kg; aspirin, 100 mg/kg) increased plasma volume and extracellular fluid volume of rats after repeated medication for 3 or 5 days, but the body fluid volume expansion disappeared with further repeated administration of NSAID. These results suggest that NSAID may inhibit the intrarenal role of prostaglandins and decrease sodium and water excretion in urine with resulting increased body fluid volume. Tolerance to these actions of NSAID developed after repeated administration.", "contents": "Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on renal excretion of sodium and water, and on body fluid volume in rats. Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on urine volume and urinary sodium excretion, and on plasma volume and extracellular fluid volume were examined in conscious rats. The basal urine volume and urinary sodium excretion were decreased and the increased urine volume and urinary sodium excretion elicited by saline load (25 ml/kg) and by hydrochlorothiazide (10 mg/kg) were inhibited after oral administration of NSAID in doses which inhibited the rat carrageenin-induced hind paw edema (indomethacin, 1--10 mg/kg; tolmetin, 3--30 mg/kg; phenylbutazone, 3--30 mg/kg; aspirin, 30--300 mg/kg), but aminopyrine (30--300 mg/kg) did not show such an effect. The inhibitory activity on renal function was diminished gradually with repeated administration of NSAID. NSAID (indomethacin, 3 mg/kg; tolmetin, 10 mg/kg; phenoxybenzamin, 10 mg/kg; aspirin, 100 mg/kg) increased plasma volume and extracellular fluid volume of rats after repeated medication for 3 or 5 days, but the body fluid volume expansion disappeared with further repeated administration of NSAID. These results suggest that NSAID may inhibit the intrarenal role of prostaglandins and decrease sodium and water excretion in urine with resulting increased body fluid volume. Tolerance to these actions of NSAID developed after repeated administration.", "PMID": 438997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4396", "title": "Gallamine and pancuronium inhibit pre- and postjunctional muscarine receptors in canine saphenous veins.", "content": "The influence of gallamine, pancuronium, suxamethonium and d-tubocurarine on adrenergic neurotransmission was studied in the isolated saphenous vein of the dog. Pancuronium but not the other muscle relaxants increased significantly the response to sympathetic stimulation and to exogenous norepipephrine; these increases were abolished after blockade of neuronal uptake by cocaine. Pancuronium and gallamine inhibited both the relaxation produced by lower doses of acetylcholine added during sympathetic stimulation (prejunctional effect) and the direct contractions evoked by high doses of the amine (postjunctional effect). In strips previously incubated with [3H]norepinephrine, gallamine had no effect on [3H]norepinephrine efflux in basal conditions and during sympathetic stimulation; it increased markedly the efflux evoked by sympathetic stimulation in the presence of acetylcholine confirming that gallamine inhibits the prejunctional effect of the latter on adrenergic transmission. When extrapolated to the intact organism, the present experiments indicate that gallamine and pancuronium augment the release of norepinephrine in vascular tissue under vagal control, which explains in part the cardiovascular effects of these muscle relaxants.", "contents": "Gallamine and pancuronium inhibit pre- and postjunctional muscarine receptors in canine saphenous veins. The influence of gallamine, pancuronium, suxamethonium and d-tubocurarine on adrenergic neurotransmission was studied in the isolated saphenous vein of the dog. Pancuronium but not the other muscle relaxants increased significantly the response to sympathetic stimulation and to exogenous norepipephrine; these increases were abolished after blockade of neuronal uptake by cocaine. Pancuronium and gallamine inhibited both the relaxation produced by lower doses of acetylcholine added during sympathetic stimulation (prejunctional effect) and the direct contractions evoked by high doses of the amine (postjunctional effect). In strips previously incubated with [3H]norepinephrine, gallamine had no effect on [3H]norepinephrine efflux in basal conditions and during sympathetic stimulation; it increased markedly the efflux evoked by sympathetic stimulation in the presence of acetylcholine confirming that gallamine inhibits the prejunctional effect of the latter on adrenergic transmission. When extrapolated to the intact organism, the present experiments indicate that gallamine and pancuronium augment the release of norepinephrine in vascular tissue under vagal control, which explains in part the cardiovascular effects of these muscle relaxants.", "PMID": 438998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4397", "title": "Urinary excretion of meperidine by the fetal lamb.", "content": "The renal excretion of meperidine by the fetus was determined in five chronic, unanesthesized fetal lamb preparations. Chronic indwelling catheters were implanted in the maternal aorta and vena cava, the fetal aorta, amniotic sac and allantoic sac. Via laparotomy, two catheters were implanted in the fetal bladder; the urachus and urethra were ligated. After intravenous administration of 2.5 mg/kg to the mother, meperidine rapidly appears in fetal urine. Approximately 0.02 to 0.05% of the maternal dose was excreted into fetal urine as unchanged meperidine in 300 min. The elimination half-life of meperidine in the fetus is 32.6 +/- 3.7 min when calculated from the urinary excretion rates, and 28.6 +/- 3.9 min when estimated from the plasma decay curve. The renal clearance of meperidine by the fetus ranged from 2.8 to 16.7 ml/min. Although the urachus and urethra were ligated, meperidine is found in samples of amniotic and allantoic fluid, indicating that the drug can diffuse across the placental membranes from the mother into these fluids. We have demonstrated that renal elimination of meperidine is a route of drug elimination by the fetus. These data support a pharmacokinetic model that describes the disposition of meperidine in the maternal-fetal unit by use of a two-compartment open model with elimination from both maternal and fetal compartments.", "contents": "Urinary excretion of meperidine by the fetal lamb. The renal excretion of meperidine by the fetus was determined in five chronic, unanesthesized fetal lamb preparations. Chronic indwelling catheters were implanted in the maternal aorta and vena cava, the fetal aorta, amniotic sac and allantoic sac. Via laparotomy, two catheters were implanted in the fetal bladder; the urachus and urethra were ligated. After intravenous administration of 2.5 mg/kg to the mother, meperidine rapidly appears in fetal urine. Approximately 0.02 to 0.05% of the maternal dose was excreted into fetal urine as unchanged meperidine in 300 min. The elimination half-life of meperidine in the fetus is 32.6 +/- 3.7 min when calculated from the urinary excretion rates, and 28.6 +/- 3.9 min when estimated from the plasma decay curve. The renal clearance of meperidine by the fetus ranged from 2.8 to 16.7 ml/min. Although the urachus and urethra were ligated, meperidine is found in samples of amniotic and allantoic fluid, indicating that the drug can diffuse across the placental membranes from the mother into these fluids. We have demonstrated that renal elimination of meperidine is a route of drug elimination by the fetus. These data support a pharmacokinetic model that describes the disposition of meperidine in the maternal-fetal unit by use of a two-compartment open model with elimination from both maternal and fetal compartments.", "PMID": 439000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4398", "title": "A new extracorporeal reactor-dialyzer for enzyme therapy using immobilized L-asparaginase.", "content": "Depletion of circulating L-asparagine has proved beneficial in the treatment of some acute lymphoyctic leukemias. To avoid the immunologic sequelae of administering L-asparaginase parenterally, we have covalently attached the enzyme to the outside of the fibers of a conventional hollow fiber hemodialyzer. This provides ready access of the substrate to the enzyme, while simultaneously isolating the foreign protein from the immune system. Such reactor-dialyzers perform well, both in vitro and in vivo. Circulating L-asparagine in the healthy dog is reduced from about 50 micrometer to less than 2 micrometer within 30 min of connecting the reactor-dialyzer and the reduction persists for at least 4 hr after cessation of treatment.", "contents": "A new extracorporeal reactor-dialyzer for enzyme therapy using immobilized L-asparaginase. Depletion of circulating L-asparagine has proved beneficial in the treatment of some acute lymphoyctic leukemias. To avoid the immunologic sequelae of administering L-asparaginase parenterally, we have covalently attached the enzyme to the outside of the fibers of a conventional hollow fiber hemodialyzer. This provides ready access of the substrate to the enzyme, while simultaneously isolating the foreign protein from the immune system. Such reactor-dialyzers perform well, both in vitro and in vivo. Circulating L-asparagine in the healthy dog is reduced from about 50 micrometer to less than 2 micrometer within 30 min of connecting the reactor-dialyzer and the reduction persists for at least 4 hr after cessation of treatment.", "PMID": 439002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4399", "title": "Influence of epinephrine and propranolol on transmembrane K transfer in anuric dogs with hyperkalemia.", "content": "In anuric dogs K loaded by infusion of 2 mEq of KCl per kg per hr the quantity of K transferred to intracellular fluid in ureter-ligated animals is considerably less than in nephrectomized ones; the combination of ureter ligation and hyperkalemia seems to suppress transmembrane K transfer. In the present investigation we found that treatment of K loaded ureter-ligated dogs with epinephrine markedly increased the animals' ability to transfer K to intracellular fluid, and that administration of propranolol (with and without epinephrine) reduced K transfer capacity below the control level. Further, we found that propranolol treatment of K-loaded nephrectomized dogs produced a striking diminution of K transfer ability. The data suggest that beta adrenergic receptors are importantly involved in the transmembrane K transfer of K-loaded anuric dogs, and that ureter ligation and hyperkalemia suppress K transfer capacity by blocking beta receptors.", "contents": "Influence of epinephrine and propranolol on transmembrane K transfer in anuric dogs with hyperkalemia. In anuric dogs K loaded by infusion of 2 mEq of KCl per kg per hr the quantity of K transferred to intracellular fluid in ureter-ligated animals is considerably less than in nephrectomized ones; the combination of ureter ligation and hyperkalemia seems to suppress transmembrane K transfer. In the present investigation we found that treatment of K loaded ureter-ligated dogs with epinephrine markedly increased the animals' ability to transfer K to intracellular fluid, and that administration of propranolol (with and without epinephrine) reduced K transfer capacity below the control level. Further, we found that propranolol treatment of K-loaded nephrectomized dogs produced a striking diminution of K transfer ability. The data suggest that beta adrenergic receptors are importantly involved in the transmembrane K transfer of K-loaded anuric dogs, and that ureter ligation and hyperkalemia suppress K transfer capacity by blocking beta receptors.", "PMID": 439003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4400", "title": "The effects of perhexiline on the sympathetic nervous system.", "content": "The effects of perhexiline on sympathetic nervous system function were studied in vitro and in vivo. Perhexiline decreased the field stimulation-induced contractile response of the isolated vas deferens and significantly decreased the quantity of norepinephrine released during stimulation of this preparation. In vivo studies in dogs showed that perhexiline reduced the heart rate response to cardiac accelerator nerve stimulation, an effect not associated with an increase in cholinergic tone or beta adrenergic blockade. Measurements of norepinephrine released from the heart during cardiac nerve stimulation showed that perhexiline (3 mg/kg) decreased norepinephrine release by approximately 35%. These results suggest that a presynatpic effect of perhexiline, which results in a decrease in norepinephrine release, contributes significantly to the attenuated heart rate response which occurs after administration of this drug. A decrease in transmitter release during sympathetic stimulation could play an important role in the mechanism for the protective effects of perhexiline in myocardial ischemic damage.", "contents": "The effects of perhexiline on the sympathetic nervous system. The effects of perhexiline on sympathetic nervous system function were studied in vitro and in vivo. Perhexiline decreased the field stimulation-induced contractile response of the isolated vas deferens and significantly decreased the quantity of norepinephrine released during stimulation of this preparation. In vivo studies in dogs showed that perhexiline reduced the heart rate response to cardiac accelerator nerve stimulation, an effect not associated with an increase in cholinergic tone or beta adrenergic blockade. Measurements of norepinephrine released from the heart during cardiac nerve stimulation showed that perhexiline (3 mg/kg) decreased norepinephrine release by approximately 35%. These results suggest that a presynatpic effect of perhexiline, which results in a decrease in norepinephrine release, contributes significantly to the attenuated heart rate response which occurs after administration of this drug. A decrease in transmitter release during sympathetic stimulation could play an important role in the mechanism for the protective effects of perhexiline in myocardial ischemic damage.", "PMID": 439004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4401", "title": "Steady-state disposition of propranolol and its total metabolites in the spontaneously hypertensive rat: chronic subcutaneous vs. intracerebroventricular infusion with osmotic minipumps.", "content": "The steady-state disposition of propranolol and its total metabolites was measured after 6 day continuous subcutaneous (1 mg/kg/day) or intracerebroventricular (i.c.v., 0.01 and 1 mg/kg/day) infusion of dl-[3H]propranolol with osmotic minipumps in spontaneously hypertensive rats. After 2 days daily excretion of total radioactivity was 70% or more of the total dose infused each day. Steady-state plasma concentrations (day 3 and 6) of propranolol and its total metabolites did not differ significantly during subcutaneous or i.c.v. infusion of 1 mg/kg/day. During i.c.v. infusion with 0.01 mg/kg/day these concentrations were only 0.01 to 0.02 times as high. Propranolol and its total metabolite concentrations did not differ significantly in peripheral tissues during subcutaneous or i.c.v. infusion of 1 mg/kg/day, whereas brain propranolol concentrations were 40- to 600-fold higher during i.c.v. infusion. During i.c.v. infusion with 0.001 mg/kg/day, peripheral propranolol and total metabolite concentrations were only 0.003 to 0.02 times those following 1 mg/kg/day. Brain propranolol concentrations after 0.01 mg/kg/day i.c.v. were in the same range as those following 1 mg/kg/day subcutaneously. The data suggest that the osmotic minipump is a useful tool for creating and maintaining a steady-state for propranolol in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Moreover, by i.c.v. placement of the pump outlet the brain can be selectively perfused with this agent for a prolonged period of time.", "contents": "Steady-state disposition of propranolol and its total metabolites in the spontaneously hypertensive rat: chronic subcutaneous vs. intracerebroventricular infusion with osmotic minipumps. The steady-state disposition of propranolol and its total metabolites was measured after 6 day continuous subcutaneous (1 mg/kg/day) or intracerebroventricular (i.c.v., 0.01 and 1 mg/kg/day) infusion of dl-[3H]propranolol with osmotic minipumps in spontaneously hypertensive rats. After 2 days daily excretion of total radioactivity was 70% or more of the total dose infused each day. Steady-state plasma concentrations (day 3 and 6) of propranolol and its total metabolites did not differ significantly during subcutaneous or i.c.v. infusion of 1 mg/kg/day. During i.c.v. infusion with 0.01 mg/kg/day these concentrations were only 0.01 to 0.02 times as high. Propranolol and its total metabolite concentrations did not differ significantly in peripheral tissues during subcutaneous or i.c.v. infusion of 1 mg/kg/day, whereas brain propranolol concentrations were 40- to 600-fold higher during i.c.v. infusion. During i.c.v. infusion with 0.001 mg/kg/day, peripheral propranolol and total metabolite concentrations were only 0.003 to 0.02 times those following 1 mg/kg/day. Brain propranolol concentrations after 0.01 mg/kg/day i.c.v. were in the same range as those following 1 mg/kg/day subcutaneously. The data suggest that the osmotic minipump is a useful tool for creating and maintaining a steady-state for propranolol in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Moreover, by i.c.v. placement of the pump outlet the brain can be selectively perfused with this agent for a prolonged period of time.", "PMID": 439006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4402", "title": "Intestinal absorption of S-adenosyl-L-methionine.", "content": "The gastrointestinal absorption of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) is demonstrated by evaluating plasma levels and gastrointestinal content of the unmodified molecule after oral administration. When [methyl-14C]SAMe is given orally, the radioactivity found in the liver is associated both with SAMe and phosphatidylcholine, a compound known to be derived from the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine with SAMe as a methyl donor. These results and low plasma levels after the oral administration may be suggestive of a first-pass effect of SAMe characterized by an extensive uptake of the drug by the liver where it is rapidly metabolized.", "contents": "Intestinal absorption of S-adenosyl-L-methionine. The gastrointestinal absorption of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) is demonstrated by evaluating plasma levels and gastrointestinal content of the unmodified molecule after oral administration. When [methyl-14C]SAMe is given orally, the radioactivity found in the liver is associated both with SAMe and phosphatidylcholine, a compound known to be derived from the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine with SAMe as a methyl donor. These results and low plasma levels after the oral administration may be suggestive of a first-pass effect of SAMe characterized by an extensive uptake of the drug by the liver where it is rapidly metabolized.", "PMID": 439007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4403", "title": "The effect of water deprivation on lithium clearance and lithium excretion fraction in lithium-polyuric rats.", "content": "The effect of water deprivation on lithium clearance was studied in rats with lithium-induced polyuria. During a 3-hr period of water deprivation, the rats lost water in amounts corresponding to about 10% of body weight. Lithium clearance fell to about 25% of the level observed in rats which were not water deprived. During shorter periods of water deprivation, the fall of lithium clearance was less. The decrease of lithium clearance was partly due to a fall of inulin clearance and partly due to a fall of fractional excretion of lithium. The decrease of the two variables contributed to the same extent to the decrease of lithium clearance. The findings support the suggestion that insufficient intake of water in patients with lithium-induced polyuria may lead to a rapid lowering of lithium clearance and, hence, to a rise of the serum lithium concentration and development of intoxication.", "contents": "The effect of water deprivation on lithium clearance and lithium excretion fraction in lithium-polyuric rats. The effect of water deprivation on lithium clearance was studied in rats with lithium-induced polyuria. During a 3-hr period of water deprivation, the rats lost water in amounts corresponding to about 10% of body weight. Lithium clearance fell to about 25% of the level observed in rats which were not water deprived. During shorter periods of water deprivation, the fall of lithium clearance was less. The decrease of lithium clearance was partly due to a fall of inulin clearance and partly due to a fall of fractional excretion of lithium. The decrease of the two variables contributed to the same extent to the decrease of lithium clearance. The findings support the suggestion that insufficient intake of water in patients with lithium-induced polyuria may lead to a rapid lowering of lithium clearance and, hence, to a rise of the serum lithium concentration and development of intoxication.", "PMID": 439008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4404", "title": "Comparison of the activity of the cis and trans isomer of vitamin K1 in vitamin K-deficient and coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated rats.", "content": "The cis and trans isomers of vitamin K1 have been prepared at a purity of better than 99.5% and tested for effect on plasma level of factor VII in coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated and vitamin K-deficient rats. Both isomers show activity, but in coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated animals the cis isomer has approximately 10% and in vitamin K-deficient approximately 1% of the activity of the trans isomer. The cis isomer also shows slower onset and rate of increase of the response. Reduction of the 2',3'-double bond of the phytyl side chain of either isomer to the same 2',3'-dihydro derivative of vitamin K1 leaves the activity of the trans isomer unchanged but increases the activity of the cis isomer to that of the trans isomer. The results suggest that the phytyl side chain not only serves to increase lipid solubility, but may play a more direct functional role.", "contents": "Comparison of the activity of the cis and trans isomer of vitamin K1 in vitamin K-deficient and coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated rats. The cis and trans isomers of vitamin K1 have been prepared at a purity of better than 99.5% and tested for effect on plasma level of factor VII in coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated and vitamin K-deficient rats. Both isomers show activity, but in coumarin anticoagulant-pretreated animals the cis isomer has approximately 10% and in vitamin K-deficient approximately 1% of the activity of the trans isomer. The cis isomer also shows slower onset and rate of increase of the response. Reduction of the 2',3'-double bond of the phytyl side chain of either isomer to the same 2',3'-dihydro derivative of vitamin K1 leaves the activity of the trans isomer unchanged but increases the activity of the cis isomer to that of the trans isomer. The results suggest that the phytyl side chain not only serves to increase lipid solubility, but may play a more direct functional role.", "PMID": 439009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4405", "title": "Transmural distribution of metabolites and blood flow in the canine left ventricle following isoproterenol infusions.", "content": "The effects of intravenous infusions of isoproterenol (0.1, 1.0 or 2.5 micrograms/kg/min for 1 hr) on the transmural distribution of myocardial high-energy phosphates and glycolytic intermediates were determined in anesthetized, open chested dogs. The transmural distribution of blood flow across the left ventricular wall was determined after serial injections of 15 mu radioactively labeled microspheres. A biopsy of the posterolateral wall was frozen in liquid nitrogen, divided into epicardial, midmyocardial and endocardial thirds, and assayed for metabolites. The remainder of the heart was processed for light and electron microscopy. At the infusion rate of 2.5 micrograms/kg/min, isoproterenol caused nonuniform reductions in ATP, phosphocreatine, total adenine nucleotides and glycogen, which were particularly depleted in the endocardium. Isoproterenol also caused nonuniform increases above baseline in blood flow (epicardial, 492%; midmyocardial, 197%; and endocardial, 131%). The endocardial/epicardial blood flow ratios, however, were reduced. Evidence of cellular damage was demonstrated by the presence of numerous contraction band lesions along with mitochondrial swelling and the appearance of electron-dense deposits. It is concluded that necrogenic infusions of isoproterenol impair myocardial energy production in all myocardial layers despite an overall increase in blood flow. There appears to be a link between the gradients in metabolites and the distribution of blood flow such that the endocardium becomes more vulnerable to injury.", "contents": "Transmural distribution of metabolites and blood flow in the canine left ventricle following isoproterenol infusions. The effects of intravenous infusions of isoproterenol (0.1, 1.0 or 2.5 micrograms/kg/min for 1 hr) on the transmural distribution of myocardial high-energy phosphates and glycolytic intermediates were determined in anesthetized, open chested dogs. The transmural distribution of blood flow across the left ventricular wall was determined after serial injections of 15 mu radioactively labeled microspheres. A biopsy of the posterolateral wall was frozen in liquid nitrogen, divided into epicardial, midmyocardial and endocardial thirds, and assayed for metabolites. The remainder of the heart was processed for light and electron microscopy. At the infusion rate of 2.5 micrograms/kg/min, isoproterenol caused nonuniform reductions in ATP, phosphocreatine, total adenine nucleotides and glycogen, which were particularly depleted in the endocardium. Isoproterenol also caused nonuniform increases above baseline in blood flow (epicardial, 492%; midmyocardial, 197%; and endocardial, 131%). The endocardial/epicardial blood flow ratios, however, were reduced. Evidence of cellular damage was demonstrated by the presence of numerous contraction band lesions along with mitochondrial swelling and the appearance of electron-dense deposits. It is concluded that necrogenic infusions of isoproterenol impair myocardial energy production in all myocardial layers despite an overall increase in blood flow. There appears to be a link between the gradients in metabolites and the distribution of blood flow such that the endocardium becomes more vulnerable to injury.", "PMID": 439010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4406", "title": "Systemic administration of prostaglandin E1 produces hypothermic effects in unanesthetized rats.", "content": "The effects of intraperitoneal administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) on thermoregulatory responses were assessed in unanesthetized rats at ambient temperatures (Ta) of 8, 22 and 29 degrees C. The body temperatures, metabolic rate, respiratory evaporative heat loss and vasomotor activity in response to PGE1 were observed. Intraperitoneal administration of PGE1 produced dose-dependent hypothermia at Ta's of both 8 and 22 degrees C. The PGE1 hypothermia was due to both the decreased metabolic rate and the cutaneous vasodilation. However, at a Ta of 29 degrees C, intraperitoneal administration of PGE1 produced no changes in rectal temperature, since the thermoregulatory responses were not affected by PGE1 application at this Ta. The data indicate that peripheral administration of PGE1 decreases metabolic heat production and increases heat loss, which leads to hypothermia in rats, in contrast to hyperthermia seen after central administration.", "contents": "Systemic administration of prostaglandin E1 produces hypothermic effects in unanesthetized rats. The effects of intraperitoneal administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) on thermoregulatory responses were assessed in unanesthetized rats at ambient temperatures (Ta) of 8, 22 and 29 degrees C. The body temperatures, metabolic rate, respiratory evaporative heat loss and vasomotor activity in response to PGE1 were observed. Intraperitoneal administration of PGE1 produced dose-dependent hypothermia at Ta's of both 8 and 22 degrees C. The PGE1 hypothermia was due to both the decreased metabolic rate and the cutaneous vasodilation. However, at a Ta of 29 degrees C, intraperitoneal administration of PGE1 produced no changes in rectal temperature, since the thermoregulatory responses were not affected by PGE1 application at this Ta. The data indicate that peripheral administration of PGE1 decreases metabolic heat production and increases heat loss, which leads to hypothermia in rats, in contrast to hyperthermia seen after central administration.", "PMID": 439011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4407", "title": "Effects of imipramine on cellular electrophysiological properties of cardiac Purkinje fibers.", "content": "The electrophysiological effects of imipramine (Tofranil) on cardiac Purkinje fibers were studied in vitro. Imipramine has a direct membrane action. It reduces excitatory inward current in Purkinje fibers, at least as measured by Vmax and conduction velocity. The mechanism of action of imipramine is probably by both reduction in gNa and marked slowing of the time constants of recovery of the rapid inward sodium current. Imipramine also reduces the action protential duration, decreasing the absolute refractory period. This effect is not seen with antiarrhythmic agents of the local anesthetic class, but it is similar to lidocaine. This effect may be a result of the decrease in steady-state gNa, but effects of the drug on other ionic conductances could play a role.", "contents": "Effects of imipramine on cellular electrophysiological properties of cardiac Purkinje fibers. The electrophysiological effects of imipramine (Tofranil) on cardiac Purkinje fibers were studied in vitro. Imipramine has a direct membrane action. It reduces excitatory inward current in Purkinje fibers, at least as measured by Vmax and conduction velocity. The mechanism of action of imipramine is probably by both reduction in gNa and marked slowing of the time constants of recovery of the rapid inward sodium current. Imipramine also reduces the action protential duration, decreasing the absolute refractory period. This effect is not seen with antiarrhythmic agents of the local anesthetic class, but it is similar to lidocaine. This effect may be a result of the decrease in steady-state gNa, but effects of the drug on other ionic conductances could play a role.", "PMID": 439013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4408", "title": "Denervation-like supersensitivity in the rat vas deferens induced by local application of colchicine to the hypogastric plexus.", "content": "In an attempt to induce denervation-like supersensitivity in the smooth muscle of the vas deferens without depriving the tissue of its innervation, a small amount of colchicine was locally applied to the hypogastric plexus of the rat. Colchicine produced supersensitivity and a partial depletion of the tissue norepinephrine. These effects were dose-dependent. The supersensitivity produced by colchicine was qualitatively and quantitatively similar to that induced by denervation. Following application of 20 micrograms of colchicine, the supersensitivity was fully developed by the 4th day. The supersensitivity began to decline by the 6th day but was measurable even after 16 days. Functional neuromuscular transmission was maintained even on the 4th day after colchicine application, although it was significantly less than the control. The time course of the development of supersensitivity was dependent on the length of the adrenergic nerve between the colchicine-applied site and the effector cells. The results indicate that supersensitivity is independent of an irreversible degeneration of the adrenergic nerves. The possible mechanisms of action of colchicine are discussed in relation to the known effects of colchicine on axoplasmic transport.", "contents": "Denervation-like supersensitivity in the rat vas deferens induced by local application of colchicine to the hypogastric plexus. In an attempt to induce denervation-like supersensitivity in the smooth muscle of the vas deferens without depriving the tissue of its innervation, a small amount of colchicine was locally applied to the hypogastric plexus of the rat. Colchicine produced supersensitivity and a partial depletion of the tissue norepinephrine. These effects were dose-dependent. The supersensitivity produced by colchicine was qualitatively and quantitatively similar to that induced by denervation. Following application of 20 micrograms of colchicine, the supersensitivity was fully developed by the 4th day. The supersensitivity began to decline by the 6th day but was measurable even after 16 days. Functional neuromuscular transmission was maintained even on the 4th day after colchicine application, although it was significantly less than the control. The time course of the development of supersensitivity was dependent on the length of the adrenergic nerve between the colchicine-applied site and the effector cells. The results indicate that supersensitivity is independent of an irreversible degeneration of the adrenergic nerves. The possible mechanisms of action of colchicine are discussed in relation to the known effects of colchicine on axoplasmic transport.", "PMID": 439014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4409", "title": "Effects of verapamil on rapid Na channel-dependent action potentials of K+-depolarized ventricular fibers.", "content": "We studied the effects of 1 to 3 micrograms/ml of verapamil on Vmax and plateau duration in guinea-pig papillary muscles depolarized from -90 to -55 mV by increasing extracellular potassium from 5.4 to 20 mM. Under the conditions of our experiments, we found that verapamil did not influence the steady-state or recovery characteristics of Vmax at any of the studied K levels even when Vmax was less than 20 V/sec. Thus in the absence of rapid sodium channel blockade, the value of Vmax cannot be used to identify slow channel-dependent action potentials. Verapamil caused no shortening of plateau or total action potential duration when potassium was less than 7.5 mM. Above this level, verapamil caused progressive shortening of plateau and total action potential duration, due to the increase in potassium and not the associated decrease in resting membrane potential. Increasing extracellular calcium shortened plateau duration at all levels of potassium before verapamil but lengthened plateau duration in the high K, verapamil-treated fibers. These results, which can be explained by known effect of verapamil on the slow outward as well as slow inward currents, provide a mechanism whereby verapamil may increase Vmax of K-depolarized but rapid sodium current-dependent premature action potentials.", "contents": "Effects of verapamil on rapid Na channel-dependent action potentials of K+-depolarized ventricular fibers. We studied the effects of 1 to 3 micrograms/ml of verapamil on Vmax and plateau duration in guinea-pig papillary muscles depolarized from -90 to -55 mV by increasing extracellular potassium from 5.4 to 20 mM. Under the conditions of our experiments, we found that verapamil did not influence the steady-state or recovery characteristics of Vmax at any of the studied K levels even when Vmax was less than 20 V/sec. Thus in the absence of rapid sodium channel blockade, the value of Vmax cannot be used to identify slow channel-dependent action potentials. Verapamil caused no shortening of plateau or total action potential duration when potassium was less than 7.5 mM. Above this level, verapamil caused progressive shortening of plateau and total action potential duration, due to the increase in potassium and not the associated decrease in resting membrane potential. Increasing extracellular calcium shortened plateau duration at all levels of potassium before verapamil but lengthened plateau duration in the high K, verapamil-treated fibers. These results, which can be explained by known effect of verapamil on the slow outward as well as slow inward currents, provide a mechanism whereby verapamil may increase Vmax of K-depolarized but rapid sodium current-dependent premature action potentials.", "PMID": 439018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4410", "title": "Effect of antrum exclusion on endocrine cells of rat stomach.", "content": "1. Following antrum exclusion the serum gastrin concentration was raised and independent of the prandial state. The antral gastrin concentration and number of gastrin cells were greatly lowered. 2. The histamine content and the number of histamine-storing endocrine ('entero-chromaffin-like') cells in the oxyntic mucosa was almost doubled and the mucosal histidine decarboxylase activity was greatly elevated following antrum exclusion. 3. At the ultrastructural level both types of histamine-storing endocrine cells (ECL and A-like) were found to be enlarged and to have a reduced number of granules per unit cytoplasm. These changes are compatible with an increased secretory activity. The G (gastrin) cells were not increased in size but their granule volume density was lowered. 4. We propose that antrum exclusion results in uninhibited gastrin release causing profound changes in the histamine-storing endocrine cells of the oxyntic mucosa. The cells respond to the hypergastrinemia by an increase in functional activity (activation of histidine decarboxylase and reduction of granule volume density) as well as by an increase in number and size.", "contents": "Effect of antrum exclusion on endocrine cells of rat stomach. 1. Following antrum exclusion the serum gastrin concentration was raised and independent of the prandial state. The antral gastrin concentration and number of gastrin cells were greatly lowered. 2. The histamine content and the number of histamine-storing endocrine ('entero-chromaffin-like') cells in the oxyntic mucosa was almost doubled and the mucosal histidine decarboxylase activity was greatly elevated following antrum exclusion. 3. At the ultrastructural level both types of histamine-storing endocrine cells (ECL and A-like) were found to be enlarged and to have a reduced number of granules per unit cytoplasm. These changes are compatible with an increased secretory activity. The G (gastrin) cells were not increased in size but their granule volume density was lowered. 4. We propose that antrum exclusion results in uninhibited gastrin release causing profound changes in the histamine-storing endocrine cells of the oxyntic mucosa. The cells respond to the hypergastrinemia by an increase in functional activity (activation of histidine decarboxylase and reduction of granule volume density) as well as by an increase in number and size.", "PMID": 439021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4411", "title": "Immobilization of intramembrane charge in Myxicola giant axons.", "content": "1. Immobilization of gating charge was examined in Myxicola giant axons dialysed with Cs+. 2. With increasing pulse durations the ratio QOFF/QON decreases to as little as 0.25 with a time constant of 3.2 msec determined from composite data. Na inactivation time constants measured in the same axons ranged from 0.8 to 1.5 msec. A slow component of QOFF tends to appear as QOFF/QON decreases. 3. Both QON and QOFF may be decreased by a prepulse with no change in their time course. In this case the time course of the decrease is similar to that observed for INA. 4. The normalized steady-state charge immobilization curve is shifted in the depolarized direction by 15--20 mV from the normalized Na inactivation curve.", "contents": "Immobilization of intramembrane charge in Myxicola giant axons. 1. Immobilization of gating charge was examined in Myxicola giant axons dialysed with Cs+. 2. With increasing pulse durations the ratio QOFF/QON decreases to as little as 0.25 with a time constant of 3.2 msec determined from composite data. Na inactivation time constants measured in the same axons ranged from 0.8 to 1.5 msec. A slow component of QOFF tends to appear as QOFF/QON decreases. 3. Both QON and QOFF may be decreased by a prepulse with no change in their time course. In this case the time course of the decrease is similar to that observed for INA. 4. The normalized steady-state charge immobilization curve is shifted in the depolarized direction by 15--20 mV from the normalized Na inactivation curve.", "PMID": 439022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4412", "title": "Carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptor control of splanchnic and forearm vascular resistance during venous pooling in man.", "content": "1. This study evaluated the contribution of carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptors to reflex splanchnic and forearm vascular adjustments during venous pooling in man. We compared (a) responses to lower body suction which produces venous pooling with (b) responses to lower body suction plus simultaneous application of neck suction. The rationale was that simultaneous application of neck suction, which stretches carotid baroreceptors, would minimize the contribution of carotid baroreceptors to circulatory adjustments produced by lower body suction.2. Lower body suction at 40 mmHg decreased central venous pressure and arterial pulse pressure and increased forearm vascular resistance (plethysmography), splanchnic vascular resistance (indocyanine green dye clearance), and heart rate. Simultaneous application of neck suction prevented the tachycardia and most of the splanchnic vasoconstriction during lower body suction, but did not significantly attenuate the forearm vasoconstriction.3. The major findings in this study are first, that the splanchnic vasoconstrictor response during venous pooling is mediated primarily through carotid baroreceptors, and secondly, that carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptors produce strikingly contrasting and non-uniform regional vascular responses during venous pooling. Cardiopulmonary baroreceptors exert the predominant influence on forearm vascular resistance, but appear to have only a minor influence on splanchnic vascular resistance. Carotid baroreceptors produce most of the splanchnic vasoconstriction during venous pooling. but have a minor role in the forearm vasoconstriction.", "contents": "Carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptor control of splanchnic and forearm vascular resistance during venous pooling in man. 1. This study evaluated the contribution of carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptors to reflex splanchnic and forearm vascular adjustments during venous pooling in man. We compared (a) responses to lower body suction which produces venous pooling with (b) responses to lower body suction plus simultaneous application of neck suction. The rationale was that simultaneous application of neck suction, which stretches carotid baroreceptors, would minimize the contribution of carotid baroreceptors to circulatory adjustments produced by lower body suction.2. Lower body suction at 40 mmHg decreased central venous pressure and arterial pulse pressure and increased forearm vascular resistance (plethysmography), splanchnic vascular resistance (indocyanine green dye clearance), and heart rate. Simultaneous application of neck suction prevented the tachycardia and most of the splanchnic vasoconstriction during lower body suction, but did not significantly attenuate the forearm vasoconstriction.3. The major findings in this study are first, that the splanchnic vasoconstrictor response during venous pooling is mediated primarily through carotid baroreceptors, and secondly, that carotid and cardiopulmonary baroreceptors produce strikingly contrasting and non-uniform regional vascular responses during venous pooling. Cardiopulmonary baroreceptors exert the predominant influence on forearm vascular resistance, but appear to have only a minor influence on splanchnic vascular resistance. Carotid baroreceptors produce most of the splanchnic vasoconstriction during venous pooling. but have a minor role in the forearm vasoconstriction.", "PMID": 439023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4413", "title": "Relation of potassium transport to oxidative metabolism in isolated brain capillaries.", "content": "1. The uptake of K by a capillary suspension isolated from rat brain was studied with the radioactive analogue (86)Rb.2. Rb uptake was dependent upon the presence of oxygen and could be markedly inhibited with ouabain.3. The ouabain sensitive Rb uptake was measured at varying external concentrations of K. Uptake of K (as (86)Rb) was half-maximal when the K concentration was 3.0 mM. This in vitro affinity of the transport carrier for K is similar to that found in previous in vivo studies of K efflux from brain to blood.4. I propose that the ouabain sensitive K pump is located on the antiluminal plasma membrane of brain capillary endothelial cells and that this pump contributes to the maintenance of a constant concentration (i.e. 3 mM) of K in brain interstitial fluid.5. Glucose and palmitate were tested as possible energy substrates for the support of active Rb uptake by isolated brain capillaries. The rate of Rb uptake increased 40% when 0.25 mM-palmitate was added to a capillary suspension containing 5 mM-glucose. This stimulation of Rb uptake could be blocked by 1 mM-4-pentenoic acid, an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation. In contrast, the fraction of Rb uptake supported by glucose was not altered by 4-pentenoic acid.6. The rates of [U-(14)C]glucose and [U-(14)C]palmitate oxidation to CO(2) were measured in isolated brain capillaries and compared to their oxidation by brain slices and synaptosomes. Palmitate was the source of 28% of the (14)CO(2) produced by the capillaries but only 0.5% of the (14)CO(2) produced by the brain slices and synaptosomes.7. It is concluded that brain capillaries are similar to renal tubules in their polar distribution of ouabain sensitive K transport carriers, dependence on oxidative metabolism for active ion transport, and use of fatty acids as energy substrates. These features may underlie the vulnerability of brain capillaries in several metabolic diseases that cause brain oedema.", "contents": "Relation of potassium transport to oxidative metabolism in isolated brain capillaries. 1. The uptake of K by a capillary suspension isolated from rat brain was studied with the radioactive analogue (86)Rb.2. Rb uptake was dependent upon the presence of oxygen and could be markedly inhibited with ouabain.3. The ouabain sensitive Rb uptake was measured at varying external concentrations of K. Uptake of K (as (86)Rb) was half-maximal when the K concentration was 3.0 mM. This in vitro affinity of the transport carrier for K is similar to that found in previous in vivo studies of K efflux from brain to blood.4. I propose that the ouabain sensitive K pump is located on the antiluminal plasma membrane of brain capillary endothelial cells and that this pump contributes to the maintenance of a constant concentration (i.e. 3 mM) of K in brain interstitial fluid.5. Glucose and palmitate were tested as possible energy substrates for the support of active Rb uptake by isolated brain capillaries. The rate of Rb uptake increased 40% when 0.25 mM-palmitate was added to a capillary suspension containing 5 mM-glucose. This stimulation of Rb uptake could be blocked by 1 mM-4-pentenoic acid, an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation. In contrast, the fraction of Rb uptake supported by glucose was not altered by 4-pentenoic acid.6. The rates of [U-(14)C]glucose and [U-(14)C]palmitate oxidation to CO(2) were measured in isolated brain capillaries and compared to their oxidation by brain slices and synaptosomes. Palmitate was the source of 28% of the (14)CO(2) produced by the capillaries but only 0.5% of the (14)CO(2) produced by the brain slices and synaptosomes.7. It is concluded that brain capillaries are similar to renal tubules in their polar distribution of ouabain sensitive K transport carriers, dependence on oxidative metabolism for active ion transport, and use of fatty acids as energy substrates. These features may underlie the vulnerability of brain capillaries in several metabolic diseases that cause brain oedema.", "PMID": 439024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4414", "title": "Natural selective cooling of the human brain: evidence of its occurrence and magnitude.", "content": "1. The technique of perceptual rating of thermal stimuli was used, in eight human subjects immersed in warm water, in order to appreciate whether they were hypo-, normo- or hyperthermic. Oesophageal, tympanic and forehead skin temperatures were recorded, as also was the temperature of the skin above the angularis oculi vein. Once the subjects gave clearly hyperthermic ratings, one arm was exposed to a 6 m/s wind. After 5--10 min the arm was re-immersed and the face was fanned. 2. Fanning of the arm resulted in lowering of body core temperature. However ratings of thermal stimuli remained hyperthermic. 3. Face fanning decreased forehead skin, angularis oculi vein and tympanic temperatures. Hyperthermic ratings were replaced by normothermic ratings, although oesophageal temperature continued to rise. 4. The upper limit of oesophageal temperature for normothermic ratings was 37.o6 +/- 0.09 degrees C during the control period without fanning. This temperature rose to 37.91 +/- 0.09 degrees C during facial ventilation. 5. These results suggest a selective cerebral cooling due to venous blood returning from facial skin via the ophthalmic vein to the cavernous sinus, where a cooling of arterial blood ascending to the brain can take place.", "contents": "Natural selective cooling of the human brain: evidence of its occurrence and magnitude. 1. The technique of perceptual rating of thermal stimuli was used, in eight human subjects immersed in warm water, in order to appreciate whether they were hypo-, normo- or hyperthermic. Oesophageal, tympanic and forehead skin temperatures were recorded, as also was the temperature of the skin above the angularis oculi vein. Once the subjects gave clearly hyperthermic ratings, one arm was exposed to a 6 m/s wind. After 5--10 min the arm was re-immersed and the face was fanned. 2. Fanning of the arm resulted in lowering of body core temperature. However ratings of thermal stimuli remained hyperthermic. 3. Face fanning decreased forehead skin, angularis oculi vein and tympanic temperatures. Hyperthermic ratings were replaced by normothermic ratings, although oesophageal temperature continued to rise. 4. The upper limit of oesophageal temperature for normothermic ratings was 37.o6 +/- 0.09 degrees C during the control period without fanning. This temperature rose to 37.91 +/- 0.09 degrees C during facial ventilation. 5. These results suggest a selective cerebral cooling due to venous blood returning from facial skin via the ophthalmic vein to the cavernous sinus, where a cooling of arterial blood ascending to the brain can take place.", "PMID": 439025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4415", "title": "Tactile sensibility in the human hand: relative and absolute densities of four types of mechanoreceptive units in glabrous skin.", "content": "1. Single unit impulses were recorded with percutaneously inserted tungsten needle electrodes from the median nerve in conscious human subjects. 2. A sample of 334 low threshold mechanoreceptive units innervating the glabrous skin area of the hand were studied. In accordance with earlier investigations, the units were separated into four groups on the basis of their adaptation and receptive field properties: RA, PC, SA I and SA II units. 3. The locations of the receptive fields of individual units were determined and the relative unit densities within various skin regions were calculated. The over-all density was found to increase in the proximo-distal direction. There was a slight increase from the palm to the main part of the finger and an abrupt increase from the main part of the finger to the finger tip. The relative densities in these three regions were 1, 1.6, 4.2. 4. The differences in over-all density were essentially accounted for by the two types of units characterized by small and well defined receptive fields, the RA and SA I units, whereas the PC and SA II units were almost evenly distributed over the whole glabrous skin area. 5. The spatial distribution of densities supports the idea that the RA and SA I units account for spatial acuity in psychophysical tests. This capacity is known to increase in distal direction along the hand. 6. On the basis of histological data regarding the number of myelinated fibres in the median nerve, a model of the absolute unit density was proposed. It was estimated that the density of low threshold mechanoreceptive units at the finger tip is as high as 241 u./cm2, whereas in the palm it is only 58 u./cm2.", "contents": "Tactile sensibility in the human hand: relative and absolute densities of four types of mechanoreceptive units in glabrous skin. 1. Single unit impulses were recorded with percutaneously inserted tungsten needle electrodes from the median nerve in conscious human subjects. 2. A sample of 334 low threshold mechanoreceptive units innervating the glabrous skin area of the hand were studied. In accordance with earlier investigations, the units were separated into four groups on the basis of their adaptation and receptive field properties: RA, PC, SA I and SA II units. 3. The locations of the receptive fields of individual units were determined and the relative unit densities within various skin regions were calculated. The over-all density was found to increase in the proximo-distal direction. There was a slight increase from the palm to the main part of the finger and an abrupt increase from the main part of the finger to the finger tip. The relative densities in these three regions were 1, 1.6, 4.2. 4. The differences in over-all density were essentially accounted for by the two types of units characterized by small and well defined receptive fields, the RA and SA I units, whereas the PC and SA II units were almost evenly distributed over the whole glabrous skin area. 5. The spatial distribution of densities supports the idea that the RA and SA I units account for spatial acuity in psychophysical tests. This capacity is known to increase in distal direction along the hand. 6. On the basis of histological data regarding the number of myelinated fibres in the median nerve, a model of the absolute unit density was proposed. It was estimated that the density of low threshold mechanoreceptive units at the finger tip is as high as 241 u./cm2, whereas in the palm it is only 58 u./cm2.", "PMID": 439026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4416", "title": "The excitation of mammalian central neurones by amino acids.", "content": "1. The relative potencies of a number of analogues of L-glutamate as excitants of thalamic neurones in the rat have been compared. The most powerful compounds were kainate, ibotenate and (+/-)cis-1-amino-1,3-dicarboxycyclopentane. The D- and L-isomers of glutamate and aspartate were also compared. Whereas D-glutamate is approximately one-half as active as the L-form, D-aspartate is more potent than L-aspartate. 2. Computer analysis has indicated that ibotenate and cis-1-amino-1,3-dicarboxy-cyclopentane have relatively fixed and similar C alpha-N, Comega-N and C alpha-Comega interatomic distances which can also be achieved by glutamate in certain conformations of the molecule, but not by aspartate. 3. Parallel examination of the antagonists glutamate diethylester and D-alpha-aminoadipate has shown that the former preferentially reduces L-glutamate effects while the latter blocks the actions of other amino acid excitants more readily than those of L-glutamate. 4. The evidence is consistent with the hypothesis that at least two populations of neuronal receptors for the excitatory amino acids exist.", "contents": "The excitation of mammalian central neurones by amino acids. 1. The relative potencies of a number of analogues of L-glutamate as excitants of thalamic neurones in the rat have been compared. The most powerful compounds were kainate, ibotenate and (+/-)cis-1-amino-1,3-dicarboxycyclopentane. The D- and L-isomers of glutamate and aspartate were also compared. Whereas D-glutamate is approximately one-half as active as the L-form, D-aspartate is more potent than L-aspartate. 2. Computer analysis has indicated that ibotenate and cis-1-amino-1,3-dicarboxy-cyclopentane have relatively fixed and similar C alpha-N, Comega-N and C alpha-Comega interatomic distances which can also be achieved by glutamate in certain conformations of the molecule, but not by aspartate. 3. Parallel examination of the antagonists glutamate diethylester and D-alpha-aminoadipate has shown that the former preferentially reduces L-glutamate effects while the latter blocks the actions of other amino acid excitants more readily than those of L-glutamate. 4. The evidence is consistent with the hypothesis that at least two populations of neuronal receptors for the excitatory amino acids exist.", "PMID": 439027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4417", "title": "Efferent control of stimulus access to the hamster vomeronasal organ.", "content": "Previous workers had identified the vomeronasal organ, on anatomical evidence, as an accessory olfactory organ, present in most terrestrial vertebrates. Lesion experiments had demonstrated its importance in sexual behaviour in the hamster. Howevever, the sequestered position of the vomeronasal receptor epithelium within the organ raised questions concerning the access of olfactory stimuli. Using electrophysiological and pharmacological methods we have now demonstrated the following. 1. A pumping mechanism exists, powered by vasomotor movements, which can suck stimulus substances into the vonmeronasal organ. 2. A mechanism also exists for the active expulsion of the contents of the vomeronasal organ. 3. These mechanisms are activated by fibres running in the nasopalatine nerve. 4. The suction mechanism is controlled by sympathetic, probably adrenergic, fibres from the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. Control of the expulsion mechanism has not been definitely established but does not appear to be sympathetic. 5. The vomeronasal organ can be adequately stimulated by activation of the pumping mechanism in the presence of odour. 6. Odour responses of single units in the accessory olfactory bulb have been recorded for the first time. 7. The time course of neuronal response in the accessory olfactory bulb is more rapid than predicted by many authors. The response is sufficiently fast that the vomeronasal system cannot be ruled out as a possible sensory pathway in many odour related behaviours. Possible modes of action of the pumping mechanism in awake animals are discussed.", "contents": "Efferent control of stimulus access to the hamster vomeronasal organ. Previous workers had identified the vomeronasal organ, on anatomical evidence, as an accessory olfactory organ, present in most terrestrial vertebrates. Lesion experiments had demonstrated its importance in sexual behaviour in the hamster. Howevever, the sequestered position of the vomeronasal receptor epithelium within the organ raised questions concerning the access of olfactory stimuli. Using electrophysiological and pharmacological methods we have now demonstrated the following. 1. A pumping mechanism exists, powered by vasomotor movements, which can suck stimulus substances into the vonmeronasal organ. 2. A mechanism also exists for the active expulsion of the contents of the vomeronasal organ. 3. These mechanisms are activated by fibres running in the nasopalatine nerve. 4. The suction mechanism is controlled by sympathetic, probably adrenergic, fibres from the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. Control of the expulsion mechanism has not been definitely established but does not appear to be sympathetic. 5. The vomeronasal organ can be adequately stimulated by activation of the pumping mechanism in the presence of odour. 6. Odour responses of single units in the accessory olfactory bulb have been recorded for the first time. 7. The time course of neuronal response in the accessory olfactory bulb is more rapid than predicted by many authors. The response is sufficiently fast that the vomeronasal system cannot be ruled out as a possible sensory pathway in many odour related behaviours. Possible modes of action of the pumping mechanism in awake animals are discussed.", "PMID": 439028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4418", "title": "The transport of the lead cation across the intestinal membrane.", "content": "1. The transport of the lead cation has been investigated using the everted sac preparation of Wilson & Wiseman (1954).2. Only a small percentage of lead was transported into the serosal compartment but there was a rapid and massive uptake onto the tissue. There was no significant difference in the amount of lead cations transported across different regions of the small intestine.3. Both the rate of transport into the serosal compartment and the tissue uptake increased linearly with increasing concentration of the lead cation, from 10(-7)M to 5 x 10(-5)M. Little evidence for saturation of serosal transport or tissue uptake was found.4. Lead transport into the serosal compartment appeared to be related to water movement, but was little affected by changes in glucose concentration and temperature.5. It is concluded that lead is transported into the serosal space by a process of passive diffusion linked to water transport.6. The interaction between lead ions and the intestinal tissue was extremely tenacious and displayed characteristics of covalent bonding.7. It is suggested that the lead cation interacts with tissue phosphate ions thus removing lead ions from the transport pool. Chelation of lead to form a neutral species reduces this interaction and also promotes transport.", "contents": "The transport of the lead cation across the intestinal membrane. 1. The transport of the lead cation has been investigated using the everted sac preparation of Wilson & Wiseman (1954).2. Only a small percentage of lead was transported into the serosal compartment but there was a rapid and massive uptake onto the tissue. There was no significant difference in the amount of lead cations transported across different regions of the small intestine.3. Both the rate of transport into the serosal compartment and the tissue uptake increased linearly with increasing concentration of the lead cation, from 10(-7)M to 5 x 10(-5)M. Little evidence for saturation of serosal transport or tissue uptake was found.4. Lead transport into the serosal compartment appeared to be related to water movement, but was little affected by changes in glucose concentration and temperature.5. It is concluded that lead is transported into the serosal space by a process of passive diffusion linked to water transport.6. The interaction between lead ions and the intestinal tissue was extremely tenacious and displayed characteristics of covalent bonding.7. It is suggested that the lead cation interacts with tissue phosphate ions thus removing lead ions from the transport pool. Chelation of lead to form a neutral species reduces this interaction and also promotes transport.", "PMID": 439029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4419", "title": "Noradrenaline as a possible mediator of the actions of angiotensin on fluid transport by rat jejunum in vivo.", "content": "1. Net fluid absorption and transmural potential difference were measured in the rat jejunum in vivo.2. Increased rates of net fluid transport were observed following infusions of angiotensin or noradrenaline. There was a small, but significant, fall in transmural p.d. associated with noradrenaline but not with angiotensin infusions.3. The alpha-adrenergic antagonists phentolamine and dihydroergotamine abolished both the angiotensin and the noradrenaline stimulations of transport and the noradrenaline-induced fall in p.d., whereas the beta-adrenergic antagonist propranolol did not significantly affect these responses.4. Phentolamine did not alter the rise in p.d. following administration of the cholinergic agonist pilocarpine.5. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide abolished both the angiotensin and the noradrenaline-induced stimulation of fluid transport.6. Neither angiotensin nor noradrenaline significantly altered jejunal cyclic AMP levels.7. Bilateral nephrectomy had no apparent effect upon the increase in fluid transport following noradrenaline infusions.8. The noradrenaline-induced stimulation of transport was unaffected, and the fall in p.d. potentiated in rats pre-treated with reserpine, but a marked inhibition of transport was observed following angiotensin infusions.9. The results are consistent with the view that noradrenaline may mediate the actions of angiotensin upon intestinal fluid absorption in the rat.", "contents": "Noradrenaline as a possible mediator of the actions of angiotensin on fluid transport by rat jejunum in vivo. 1. Net fluid absorption and transmural potential difference were measured in the rat jejunum in vivo.2. Increased rates of net fluid transport were observed following infusions of angiotensin or noradrenaline. There was a small, but significant, fall in transmural p.d. associated with noradrenaline but not with angiotensin infusions.3. The alpha-adrenergic antagonists phentolamine and dihydroergotamine abolished both the angiotensin and the noradrenaline stimulations of transport and the noradrenaline-induced fall in p.d., whereas the beta-adrenergic antagonist propranolol did not significantly affect these responses.4. Phentolamine did not alter the rise in p.d. following administration of the cholinergic agonist pilocarpine.5. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide abolished both the angiotensin and the noradrenaline-induced stimulation of fluid transport.6. Neither angiotensin nor noradrenaline significantly altered jejunal cyclic AMP levels.7. Bilateral nephrectomy had no apparent effect upon the increase in fluid transport following noradrenaline infusions.8. The noradrenaline-induced stimulation of transport was unaffected, and the fall in p.d. potentiated in rats pre-treated with reserpine, but a marked inhibition of transport was observed following angiotensin infusions.9. The results are consistent with the view that noradrenaline may mediate the actions of angiotensin upon intestinal fluid absorption in the rat.", "PMID": 439030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4420", "title": "Non-electrolyte permeability of trout gills: effect of temperature and adrenaline.", "content": "1. The gill permeability to various non-electrolytes (P(s)) was measured in fresh-water and sea-water adapted trout (Salmo gairdneri). This study was performed in vitro using a ;head-perfused' preparation. The influence of temperature and adrenaline (10(-6)M) on permeability to non-electrolytes was also investigated.2. During salt adaptation P(butanol) and P(water) decrease, P(mannitol) rises and P(dextran) stays constant. In view of recently acquired morphological data these results back up the hypothesis of different pathways across the gill epithelium (transcellular, vesicular and paracellular) according to the physico-chemical characteristics of the molecules. The low selectivity of the gill epithelium as a function of the liposolubility of the molecules used testifies to the hydrophilic nature of diffusion across this epithelium, a feature becoming more pronounced during salt adaptation.3. The activation energies are about 4 kcal/mol, an energy comparable to diffusion in water for most of the substances tested, exceptions being butanol for fresh-water adapted gills and water for fresh-water and sea-water adapted gills. Arrhenius plots for butanol in fresh water gills show a transition temperature at 15 degrees C, suggesting an increased membrane lipid fluidity above this temperature.4. Adrenaline has no effect on P(mannitol) and P(dextran), but increases P(butanol) and P(water) selectively according to the adaptation medium (+ 160% and + 100% in fresh water and + 25% and + 20% in sea water respectively). These results point to an effect of this catecholamine on the membrane lipid fluidity.", "contents": "Non-electrolyte permeability of trout gills: effect of temperature and adrenaline. 1. The gill permeability to various non-electrolytes (P(s)) was measured in fresh-water and sea-water adapted trout (Salmo gairdneri). This study was performed in vitro using a ;head-perfused' preparation. The influence of temperature and adrenaline (10(-6)M) on permeability to non-electrolytes was also investigated.2. During salt adaptation P(butanol) and P(water) decrease, P(mannitol) rises and P(dextran) stays constant. In view of recently acquired morphological data these results back up the hypothesis of different pathways across the gill epithelium (transcellular, vesicular and paracellular) according to the physico-chemical characteristics of the molecules. The low selectivity of the gill epithelium as a function of the liposolubility of the molecules used testifies to the hydrophilic nature of diffusion across this epithelium, a feature becoming more pronounced during salt adaptation.3. The activation energies are about 4 kcal/mol, an energy comparable to diffusion in water for most of the substances tested, exceptions being butanol for fresh-water adapted gills and water for fresh-water and sea-water adapted gills. Arrhenius plots for butanol in fresh water gills show a transition temperature at 15 degrees C, suggesting an increased membrane lipid fluidity above this temperature.4. Adrenaline has no effect on P(mannitol) and P(dextran), but increases P(butanol) and P(water) selectively according to the adaptation medium (+ 160% and + 100% in fresh water and + 25% and + 20% in sea water respectively). These results point to an effect of this catecholamine on the membrane lipid fluidity.", "PMID": 439031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4421", "title": "Serotonergic innervation of the locus coeruleus from the dorsal raphe and its action on responses to noxious stimuli.", "content": "The connexions between the dorsal raphe nucleus and the nucleus locus coeruleus were studied in urethane anaesthetized rats. 1. Cells in the locus coeruleus gave an excitatory response to a noxious stimulus, e.g. leg pinch. 2. This excitatory response was blocked by either a parenteral or an ionophoretic injection of morphine and recovered after an injection of naloxone. 3. Electrical stimulation in the region of the dorsal raphe blocked excitatory locus coeruleus responses to noxious stimuli. 4. While naloxone did not antagonize the effects of the dorsal raphe stimulation towards locus coeruleus activity, these effects were absent in rats pretreated with a serotonin synthesis inhibitor, PCPA or with 5,7-DHT which destroys serotonin-containing terminals, and were reduced by the serotonin antagonist methysergide. 5. A serotonin-containing inhibitory pathway between the dorsal raphe and the locus coeruleus is proposed to account for these results.", "contents": "Serotonergic innervation of the locus coeruleus from the dorsal raphe and its action on responses to noxious stimuli. The connexions between the dorsal raphe nucleus and the nucleus locus coeruleus were studied in urethane anaesthetized rats. 1. Cells in the locus coeruleus gave an excitatory response to a noxious stimulus, e.g. leg pinch. 2. This excitatory response was blocked by either a parenteral or an ionophoretic injection of morphine and recovered after an injection of naloxone. 3. Electrical stimulation in the region of the dorsal raphe blocked excitatory locus coeruleus responses to noxious stimuli. 4. While naloxone did not antagonize the effects of the dorsal raphe stimulation towards locus coeruleus activity, these effects were absent in rats pretreated with a serotonin synthesis inhibitor, PCPA or with 5,7-DHT which destroys serotonin-containing terminals, and were reduced by the serotonin antagonist methysergide. 5. A serotonin-containing inhibitory pathway between the dorsal raphe and the locus coeruleus is proposed to account for these results.", "PMID": 439032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4422", "title": "Calcium current in molluscan neurones: measurement under conditions which maximize its visibility.", "content": "1. Membrane currents were studied in isolated somata of molluscan neurones from Archidoris monteryensis and Anisodoris nobilis. Under voltage clamp, inward current displayed a two phase time course, and in some cases a clear reversal potential difference could be shown for the fast and slow phases. The slower phase was carried predominantly by calcium ions. 2. The apparent magnitude of the slower phase was greatly influenced by conditions which altered potassium current flow. Blocking voltage-dependent potassium conductances, either by appropriate conditioning polarizations or by tetraethyl-ammonium (TEA) ion, enhanced the magnitude, while conditions which augmented potassium current made the slow phase disappear. 3. A fraction of the membrane potassium conductance was TEA insensitive. This fraction could be blocked by procedures which prevented internal levels of calcium from increasing during the voltage clamp pulse. Three such procedures were demonstrated; replacement of external calcium by magnesium, internal buffering by EGTA, and replacement of calcium by permeant barium. 4. Internal EGTA buffering or external barium in combination with external TEA produced an extreme change in membrane current as compared with the normal time course. Membrane current, when activated by pulses up to +50 mV, was net inward and showed only fractional inactivation over time courses running to several seconds. Pulses to voltages greater than +60 mV resulted in outward current. 5. It is concluded that under normal conditions the calcium conductance has the extended time course clearly evident under the modified conditions of paragraph 4 but that the calcium flux component is easily missed. 6. In agreement with several prior studies it is also concluded that a rise in internal calcium is causally related to a rise in potassium conductance. A transmembrane flux of calcium can be uncoupled from the gK increase by appropriate buffering of internal calcium. 7. The transient potassium current, IA, which bears a resemblance to calcium-dependent potassium transients in some muscle cells did not depend upon internal calcium but instead is a voltage-activated mechanism.", "contents": "Calcium current in molluscan neurones: measurement under conditions which maximize its visibility. 1. Membrane currents were studied in isolated somata of molluscan neurones from Archidoris monteryensis and Anisodoris nobilis. Under voltage clamp, inward current displayed a two phase time course, and in some cases a clear reversal potential difference could be shown for the fast and slow phases. The slower phase was carried predominantly by calcium ions. 2. The apparent magnitude of the slower phase was greatly influenced by conditions which altered potassium current flow. Blocking voltage-dependent potassium conductances, either by appropriate conditioning polarizations or by tetraethyl-ammonium (TEA) ion, enhanced the magnitude, while conditions which augmented potassium current made the slow phase disappear. 3. A fraction of the membrane potassium conductance was TEA insensitive. This fraction could be blocked by procedures which prevented internal levels of calcium from increasing during the voltage clamp pulse. Three such procedures were demonstrated; replacement of external calcium by magnesium, internal buffering by EGTA, and replacement of calcium by permeant barium. 4. Internal EGTA buffering or external barium in combination with external TEA produced an extreme change in membrane current as compared with the normal time course. Membrane current, when activated by pulses up to +50 mV, was net inward and showed only fractional inactivation over time courses running to several seconds. Pulses to voltages greater than +60 mV resulted in outward current. 5. It is concluded that under normal conditions the calcium conductance has the extended time course clearly evident under the modified conditions of paragraph 4 but that the calcium flux component is easily missed. 6. In agreement with several prior studies it is also concluded that a rise in internal calcium is causally related to a rise in potassium conductance. A transmembrane flux of calcium can be uncoupled from the gK increase by appropriate buffering of internal calcium. 7. The transient potassium current, IA, which bears a resemblance to calcium-dependent potassium transients in some muscle cells did not depend upon internal calcium but instead is a voltage-activated mechanism.", "PMID": 439033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4423", "title": "Diffusional inhomogeneity: gas mixing efficiency in the new-born lung.", "content": "1. The results of 105 nitrogen washouts on seventy-six new-born babies are presented; the mean lung volume (functional residual capacity, FRC) of the seventy-six babies measured at more than 1 hr of age was 77.5 +/- 2.9 (S.E. of mean; S.D. = 25.4). 2. The mean gas mixing efficiency was 0.466 +/- 0.0097 (S. E. of mean; S.D. = 0.096). The reasons for the difference between this figure and the normal for adults of 0.66--0.76 are discussed, and it is suggested that the very much greater turnover rate of gas within the lungs is responsible for diffusion inefficiency. 3. Calculations indicate that there is a tenfold fall in diffusion inefficiency for every 9.8 sec turnover time (the time for VE to equal VFRC). In the baby the turnover time is 5--6 sec on average but with a very wide spread; in the adult it is of the order of 30 sec, so that diffusion inefficiency of gas in the lung would be only 0.001 or 0.1%. 4. The significance of this is that the effective alveolar ventilation of the average neonate is less than half the total ventilation (as opposed to two-thirds if deadspace only is considered), becoming a smaller fraction of VE on hyperventilation. This would explain discrepancies in the calculation of alveolar carbon dioxide levels from the output of that gas and the non-deadspace ventilation.", "contents": "Diffusional inhomogeneity: gas mixing efficiency in the new-born lung. 1. The results of 105 nitrogen washouts on seventy-six new-born babies are presented; the mean lung volume (functional residual capacity, FRC) of the seventy-six babies measured at more than 1 hr of age was 77.5 +/- 2.9 (S.E. of mean; S.D. = 25.4). 2. The mean gas mixing efficiency was 0.466 +/- 0.0097 (S. E. of mean; S.D. = 0.096). The reasons for the difference between this figure and the normal for adults of 0.66--0.76 are discussed, and it is suggested that the very much greater turnover rate of gas within the lungs is responsible for diffusion inefficiency. 3. Calculations indicate that there is a tenfold fall in diffusion inefficiency for every 9.8 sec turnover time (the time for VE to equal VFRC). In the baby the turnover time is 5--6 sec on average but with a very wide spread; in the adult it is of the order of 30 sec, so that diffusion inefficiency of gas in the lung would be only 0.001 or 0.1%. 4. The significance of this is that the effective alveolar ventilation of the average neonate is less than half the total ventilation (as opposed to two-thirds if deadspace only is considered), becoming a smaller fraction of VE on hyperventilation. This would explain discrepancies in the calculation of alveolar carbon dioxide levels from the output of that gas and the non-deadspace ventilation.", "PMID": 439034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4424", "title": "Prolonged changes in excitability of pyramidal tract neurones in the cat: a post-synaptic mechanism.", "content": "1. Prolonged changes in the excitability of cortical neurones can be produced by altering their firing rates for brief periods. In the anaesthetized cat, increased firing of pyramidal tract cells induced by trains of antidromic conditioning shocks led to increases in cell excitability, as measured by the size of the mass response at the medullary pyramid to test shocks applied to the cortical surface. We have shown in two ways that post-synaptic mechanisms could be responsible. 2. In one experimental design, MgCl2 solution (1 mole/l.) was applied to the cortical surface in order to block synaptic activity throughout the cortical depth. Following antidromic conditioning trains, cell excitability was increased; the size of the mass response was up to 30% larger than the control values. This persisted undiminished for up to 3 hr. 3. In the second experimental design, synaptic activity was not blocked, but we compared the effects of antidromic plus synaptic activation of pyramidal tract cells with the effects of synaptic activation alone. Antidromic plus synaptic activation was obtained by applying conditioning trains to the pyramidal tract at the medulla ipsilateral to the cortical test shock; prolonged increases in the ipsilateral response to the test shock were produced. Synaptic activation alone was obtained by the same conditioning trains, but in those cells whose axons projected into the contralateral pyramidal tract; prolonged increases in the contralateral response to the cortical test shock were never seen. In many instances prolonged decreases in excitability were found. 4. We conclude that prolonged increases in excitability of pyramidal tract cells can occur in the absence of any synaptic input, demonstrating that the underlying mechanism is post-synaptic; this does not preclude the action of synaptic mechanisms when synaptic transmission is not blocked.", "contents": "Prolonged changes in excitability of pyramidal tract neurones in the cat: a post-synaptic mechanism. 1. Prolonged changes in the excitability of cortical neurones can be produced by altering their firing rates for brief periods. In the anaesthetized cat, increased firing of pyramidal tract cells induced by trains of antidromic conditioning shocks led to increases in cell excitability, as measured by the size of the mass response at the medullary pyramid to test shocks applied to the cortical surface. We have shown in two ways that post-synaptic mechanisms could be responsible. 2. In one experimental design, MgCl2 solution (1 mole/l.) was applied to the cortical surface in order to block synaptic activity throughout the cortical depth. Following antidromic conditioning trains, cell excitability was increased; the size of the mass response was up to 30% larger than the control values. This persisted undiminished for up to 3 hr. 3. In the second experimental design, synaptic activity was not blocked, but we compared the effects of antidromic plus synaptic activation of pyramidal tract cells with the effects of synaptic activation alone. Antidromic plus synaptic activation was obtained by applying conditioning trains to the pyramidal tract at the medulla ipsilateral to the cortical test shock; prolonged increases in the ipsilateral response to the test shock were produced. Synaptic activation alone was obtained by the same conditioning trains, but in those cells whose axons projected into the contralateral pyramidal tract; prolonged increases in the contralateral response to the cortical test shock were never seen. In many instances prolonged decreases in excitability were found. 4. We conclude that prolonged increases in excitability of pyramidal tract cells can occur in the absence of any synaptic input, demonstrating that the underlying mechanism is post-synaptic; this does not preclude the action of synaptic mechanisms when synaptic transmission is not blocked.", "PMID": 439035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4425", "title": "Different mechanisms for neutral amino acid uptake by new-born pig colon.", "content": "1. Mucosal amino acid uptake by pig proximal colon, measured independently for fourteen different amino acids each used at a concentration of 1 mM, ranged from 0.6 to 8.6 n-mole. cm(-2). min(-1) in the new-born to 0 to 0.3 n-mole. cm(-2). min(-1) in the 2-day-old animal. Long chain amino acids entered the mucosa of new-born pig proximal colon much more readily than did short chain amino acids.2. Glycine was used extensively to inhibit the uptake of other neutral amino acids. The degree of maximal inhibition produced depended on the amino acid used. The relative inability of glycine to inhibit the uptake of long chain amino acids suggested that these compounds could cross the brush border on a carrier inaccessible to glycine. The glycine-sensitive uptake remained more or less constant for all amino acids tested (1-2 n-mole.cm(-2).min(-1)); the glycine-insensitive uptake varied from 0 to 7 n-mole.cm(-2).min(-1) (glycine and methionine respectively).3. It is suggested that at least two mechanisms exist for the entry of neutral amino acids into pig proximal colon, one showing specificity for hydrophobic amino acids and the other having broad specificity. The mechanism responsible for the uptake of long chain essential amino acids predominates over the less specific mechanism.4. These results are discussed in relation to previous work carried out on the rabbit ileum where two similar systems for neutral amino acid entry have been shown to be present. Both tissues transport hydrophobic amino acids on their own specific carrier at approximately the same rate; the ability of the pig colon to transport amino acids on the broad specificity carrier is eight times less than in the rabbit ileum. The possibility is raised that this system is subject to regulation.", "contents": "Different mechanisms for neutral amino acid uptake by new-born pig colon. 1. Mucosal amino acid uptake by pig proximal colon, measured independently for fourteen different amino acids each used at a concentration of 1 mM, ranged from 0.6 to 8.6 n-mole. cm(-2). min(-1) in the new-born to 0 to 0.3 n-mole. cm(-2). min(-1) in the 2-day-old animal. Long chain amino acids entered the mucosa of new-born pig proximal colon much more readily than did short chain amino acids.2. Glycine was used extensively to inhibit the uptake of other neutral amino acids. The degree of maximal inhibition produced depended on the amino acid used. The relative inability of glycine to inhibit the uptake of long chain amino acids suggested that these compounds could cross the brush border on a carrier inaccessible to glycine. The glycine-sensitive uptake remained more or less constant for all amino acids tested (1-2 n-mole.cm(-2).min(-1)); the glycine-insensitive uptake varied from 0 to 7 n-mole.cm(-2).min(-1) (glycine and methionine respectively).3. It is suggested that at least two mechanisms exist for the entry of neutral amino acids into pig proximal colon, one showing specificity for hydrophobic amino acids and the other having broad specificity. The mechanism responsible for the uptake of long chain essential amino acids predominates over the less specific mechanism.4. These results are discussed in relation to previous work carried out on the rabbit ileum where two similar systems for neutral amino acid entry have been shown to be present. Both tissues transport hydrophobic amino acids on their own specific carrier at approximately the same rate; the ability of the pig colon to transport amino acids on the broad specificity carrier is eight times less than in the rabbit ileum. The possibility is raised that this system is subject to regulation.", "PMID": 439036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4426", "title": "The effects of background illumination on the photoresponses of red and green cones.", "content": "1. The photoresponses of light- and dark-adapted red and green cone photoreceptors were recorded intracellularly in the retina of the turtle, Pseduemys scripta elegans. Background illumination produced similar effects on both types of cones. 2. In response to the onset of a prolonged, steady background illumination the cone initially hyperpolarized to a peak which then sagged back to a steady-state polarization that was typically about one half the initial peak amplitude. This sag was observed for all backgrounds studied (dim as well as bright). 3. A resensitization was observed concomitantly with this sag; both the maximum increment and decrement responses grew in amplitude as light-adaptation proceeded. After about 2--3 min of background illumination, the amplitudes of these responses stabilized. 4. The dark-adapted cone produced graded responses to test pulses over a range of intensities spanning about 3.5 log units. The amplitudes of these responses were well fit by the relationship V = I.Vm/(I + sigma). 5. After 2--3 min of background illumination, 500 msec test pulses either brighter or dimmer than the background intensity were substituted for the background. The light-adapted intensity-response curves constructed from this data were similar to the dark-adapted curve but were shifted horizontally and slightly vertically, so that they still spanned about 3.5 log units of intensity. Thus, in the light-adapted cone, graded responses were elicited by a range of bright test pulses which would have produced saturated responses when delivered to the dark-adapted cone. 6. The 'off response' observed at the offset of the background became faster as the background intensity was increased. It also became faster with time following the onset of any particular background intensity. 7. It was concluded that cone sensitivity during any state of light-adaptation is determined by two mechanisms; response compression resulting from the instantaneous non-linearity between 'internal transmitter' concentration and membrane potential and a more active 'cellular adaptation' mechanism which is manifest as a shift in the intensity-response curve. In the steady-state condition of light-adaptation, most of the sensitivity changes are a result of the cellular adaptation mechanism. 8. Photopigment bleaching caused by the backgrounds, negative feed-back from horizontal cells and voltage dependent mechanisms in the cones could not account for this cellular adaptation. These effects of background illumination were interpreted in terms of the 'internal transmitter' hypothesis of phototransduction.", "contents": "The effects of background illumination on the photoresponses of red and green cones. 1. The photoresponses of light- and dark-adapted red and green cone photoreceptors were recorded intracellularly in the retina of the turtle, Pseduemys scripta elegans. Background illumination produced similar effects on both types of cones. 2. In response to the onset of a prolonged, steady background illumination the cone initially hyperpolarized to a peak which then sagged back to a steady-state polarization that was typically about one half the initial peak amplitude. This sag was observed for all backgrounds studied (dim as well as bright). 3. A resensitization was observed concomitantly with this sag; both the maximum increment and decrement responses grew in amplitude as light-adaptation proceeded. After about 2--3 min of background illumination, the amplitudes of these responses stabilized. 4. The dark-adapted cone produced graded responses to test pulses over a range of intensities spanning about 3.5 log units. The amplitudes of these responses were well fit by the relationship V = I.Vm/(I + sigma). 5. After 2--3 min of background illumination, 500 msec test pulses either brighter or dimmer than the background intensity were substituted for the background. The light-adapted intensity-response curves constructed from this data were similar to the dark-adapted curve but were shifted horizontally and slightly vertically, so that they still spanned about 3.5 log units of intensity. Thus, in the light-adapted cone, graded responses were elicited by a range of bright test pulses which would have produced saturated responses when delivered to the dark-adapted cone. 6. The 'off response' observed at the offset of the background became faster as the background intensity was increased. It also became faster with time following the onset of any particular background intensity. 7. It was concluded that cone sensitivity during any state of light-adaptation is determined by two mechanisms; response compression resulting from the instantaneous non-linearity between 'internal transmitter' concentration and membrane potential and a more active 'cellular adaptation' mechanism which is manifest as a shift in the intensity-response curve. In the steady-state condition of light-adaptation, most of the sensitivity changes are a result of the cellular adaptation mechanism. 8. Photopigment bleaching caused by the backgrounds, negative feed-back from horizontal cells and voltage dependent mechanisms in the cones could not account for this cellular adaptation. These effects of background illumination were interpreted in terms of the 'internal transmitter' hypothesis of phototransduction.", "PMID": 439037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4427", "title": "Electrolyte secretion by the isolated cat pancreas during replacement of extracellular bicarbonate by organic anions and chloride by inorganic anions.", "content": "1. The effect of replacing extracellular bicarbonate and chloride by other anions on the volume and composition of secretin-stimulated pancreatic juice has been analysed in the isolated, perfused cat pancreas. 2. The anions of some aliphatic carboxylic acids were able partially to substitute for bicarbonate in sustaining pancreatic secretion. The order of effectiveness was: acetate greater than proprionate greater than butyrate greater than formate. 3. The rate of secretion in the presence of 25 mM-acetate was 42% of that achieved with 25 mM-bicarbonate. The concentration of acetate in the secretion varied with flow rate, reaching a maximum of 120 mM at high flow rates and declining at lower flow rates, with reciprocal changes in chloride concentration. Bicarbonate was always present in the secretion at a concentration of 5--7 mM. 4. Inorganic anions were able totally or partially to substitute for chloride in sustaining secretion. In relation to chloride, their degree of effectiveness was: chloride = bromide = or greater than nitrate greater than iodide greater than sulphate greater than methyl sulphate greater than isethionate. Those anions which had no effect on secretion rate (i.e. bromide and nitrate) also had no effect on the bicarbonate concentration of the secretion and themselves appeared in the secretion in place of chloride. Those anions which inhibited secretion increased the bicarbonate concentration in the secretion in proportion to the degree of inhibition they caused (i.e. the increase was greatest with isethionate). 5. When perfusate chloride was only partially replaced by bromide or iodide the ratios of chloride: bromide and chloride: iodide in the secretion were approximately equal to those in the perfusate. 6. The carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide reduced secretory rate and bicarbonate concentration when added to normal perfusion fluid or chloride-substituted fluids, but had no effect following replacement of perfusate bicarbonate by acetate. 7. These observations illustrate that an extracellular source of permeant anions is required for optimal pancreatic bicarbonate secretion to occur. This may indicate the participation of an anion exchange carrier in the transport events responsible for this secretory process.", "contents": "Electrolyte secretion by the isolated cat pancreas during replacement of extracellular bicarbonate by organic anions and chloride by inorganic anions. 1. The effect of replacing extracellular bicarbonate and chloride by other anions on the volume and composition of secretin-stimulated pancreatic juice has been analysed in the isolated, perfused cat pancreas. 2. The anions of some aliphatic carboxylic acids were able partially to substitute for bicarbonate in sustaining pancreatic secretion. The order of effectiveness was: acetate greater than proprionate greater than butyrate greater than formate. 3. The rate of secretion in the presence of 25 mM-acetate was 42% of that achieved with 25 mM-bicarbonate. The concentration of acetate in the secretion varied with flow rate, reaching a maximum of 120 mM at high flow rates and declining at lower flow rates, with reciprocal changes in chloride concentration. Bicarbonate was always present in the secretion at a concentration of 5--7 mM. 4. Inorganic anions were able totally or partially to substitute for chloride in sustaining secretion. In relation to chloride, their degree of effectiveness was: chloride = bromide = or greater than nitrate greater than iodide greater than sulphate greater than methyl sulphate greater than isethionate. Those anions which had no effect on secretion rate (i.e. bromide and nitrate) also had no effect on the bicarbonate concentration of the secretion and themselves appeared in the secretion in place of chloride. Those anions which inhibited secretion increased the bicarbonate concentration in the secretion in proportion to the degree of inhibition they caused (i.e. the increase was greatest with isethionate). 5. When perfusate chloride was only partially replaced by bromide or iodide the ratios of chloride: bromide and chloride: iodide in the secretion were approximately equal to those in the perfusate. 6. The carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide reduced secretory rate and bicarbonate concentration when added to normal perfusion fluid or chloride-substituted fluids, but had no effect following replacement of perfusate bicarbonate by acetate. 7. These observations illustrate that an extracellular source of permeant anions is required for optimal pancreatic bicarbonate secretion to occur. This may indicate the participation of an anion exchange carrier in the transport events responsible for this secretory process.", "PMID": 439038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4428", "title": "Mechanics of the trachea and behaviour of its slowly adapting stretch receptors.", "content": "1. The trachea is constructed by a series of U-shaped cartilaginous rings supporting a membranous posterior wall. We have studied separately the pressure-volume relationships of the two components. 2. The motion of the membranous posterior wall contributes most to the tracheal volume change caused by any given transmural pressure change; the cartilaginous rings provide a semi-rigid support to the posterior wall and have a far greater compliance with negative than positive transmural pressure. 3. The response of tracheal stretch receptors to transmural pressure can be explained by the mechanical coupling between cartilages and posterior wall. They respond both to positive and negative transmural pressure, they are active at zero transmural pressure and have a point of least activity with small negative transmural pressures. 4. The stress-strain relationship of the posterior wall has been studied in static and dynamic conditions in control situations and after removal of either the tunica fibrosa or the trachealis muscle. Each of these two components contributes to the stiffness of the posterior wall, with the trachealis muscle providing most of its viscosity. 5. The response of tracheal stretch receptors to transverse traction of the posterior membranous wall has been studied in both static and dynamic conditions before and after removal of the tunica fibrosa. The behaviour of these receptors reflects the visco-elastic properties of the trachealis muscle in which they have been localized.", "contents": "Mechanics of the trachea and behaviour of its slowly adapting stretch receptors. 1. The trachea is constructed by a series of U-shaped cartilaginous rings supporting a membranous posterior wall. We have studied separately the pressure-volume relationships of the two components. 2. The motion of the membranous posterior wall contributes most to the tracheal volume change caused by any given transmural pressure change; the cartilaginous rings provide a semi-rigid support to the posterior wall and have a far greater compliance with negative than positive transmural pressure. 3. The response of tracheal stretch receptors to transmural pressure can be explained by the mechanical coupling between cartilages and posterior wall. They respond both to positive and negative transmural pressure, they are active at zero transmural pressure and have a point of least activity with small negative transmural pressures. 4. The stress-strain relationship of the posterior wall has been studied in static and dynamic conditions in control situations and after removal of either the tunica fibrosa or the trachealis muscle. Each of these two components contributes to the stiffness of the posterior wall, with the trachealis muscle providing most of its viscosity. 5. The response of tracheal stretch receptors to transverse traction of the posterior membranous wall has been studied in both static and dynamic conditions before and after removal of the tunica fibrosa. The behaviour of these receptors reflects the visco-elastic properties of the trachealis muscle in which they have been localized.", "PMID": 439039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4429", "title": "Measurement of calcium influx under voltage clamp in molluscan neurones using the metallochromic dye arsenazo III.", "content": "1. The metallochromic indicator dye, arsenazo III, was injected into somata of molluscan neurones from Archidoris monteryensis. Membrane current and dye absorbance change were simultaneously monitored under voltage clamp. 2. Absorbance measured at 660 nm increased during positive-going voltage steps large enough to activate membrane conductances. In situ idifference spectra were qualitatively similar to dye, dye-calcium difference spectra recorded in vitro. The absorbance change was abolished by either a thorough removal of external calcium or internal chelation of calcium by EGTA. It was concluded that the absorbance increase primarily reflected changing internal calcium concentration and that the calcium entered from the outside. 3. Dye absorbance increased in a nearly linear fashion during voltage clamp pulses of 100--300 msec duration. This is in qualitative agreement with electrical stuidies which demonstrated only fractional inactivation of calcium conductance during such periods. Plots of absorbance change vs. Vm peaked at +30 to +40 mV and fell off sharply until approximately +70 mV where the slope became less steep. A null or reversal of the absorbance change was generally observed aroung +110 mV. Evidence is presented that calcium influx was in some cases sufficient to cause sizeable changes in its equilibrium potential. 4. During multisecond voltage clamps the slope of the absorbance change showed a large decline. Where barium substituted for calcium as the influx species in identical clamps, the absorbance at 660 nm also increased but in a much more linear fashion. Except for a slight effect on the initial few pulses, the absorbance signal did not recover after a period of barium influx. These results suggest that part of the slope decline might result from processes related to calcium uptake and not to membrane conductance decrease. 5. Dye absorbance changes during normal and TEA action potentials were measured. Comparison of these changes with voltage clamp records indicated that calcium influx during a spike was capable of raising concentration by roughly 2 X 10(-7) M if the cell were considered to be a uniform sphere with no buffering capacity. Calcium influx during action potentials was increased dramatically by TEA, primarily as a result of a prolonged plateau phase. The existence and duration of the plateau was controlled mainly by potassium conductance systems, however. There was no evidence found for facilitation of the calcium conductance. 6. Following a moderate influx of calcium it required 20--60 sec, depending on the neurone, for the dye absorbance to return to base line (at 9 degrees C). The recovery time course showed a marked difference when examined at different wavelengths. For lambda = 660 nm there was an initial period in which the absorbance decreased rapidly, followed by a slower phase which generally carried the absorbance below the initial (prepulse) value...", "contents": "Measurement of calcium influx under voltage clamp in molluscan neurones using the metallochromic dye arsenazo III. 1. The metallochromic indicator dye, arsenazo III, was injected into somata of molluscan neurones from Archidoris monteryensis. Membrane current and dye absorbance change were simultaneously monitored under voltage clamp. 2. Absorbance measured at 660 nm increased during positive-going voltage steps large enough to activate membrane conductances. In situ idifference spectra were qualitatively similar to dye, dye-calcium difference spectra recorded in vitro. The absorbance change was abolished by either a thorough removal of external calcium or internal chelation of calcium by EGTA. It was concluded that the absorbance increase primarily reflected changing internal calcium concentration and that the calcium entered from the outside. 3. Dye absorbance increased in a nearly linear fashion during voltage clamp pulses of 100--300 msec duration. This is in qualitative agreement with electrical stuidies which demonstrated only fractional inactivation of calcium conductance during such periods. Plots of absorbance change vs. Vm peaked at +30 to +40 mV and fell off sharply until approximately +70 mV where the slope became less steep. A null or reversal of the absorbance change was generally observed aroung +110 mV. Evidence is presented that calcium influx was in some cases sufficient to cause sizeable changes in its equilibrium potential. 4. During multisecond voltage clamps the slope of the absorbance change showed a large decline. Where barium substituted for calcium as the influx species in identical clamps, the absorbance at 660 nm also increased but in a much more linear fashion. Except for a slight effect on the initial few pulses, the absorbance signal did not recover after a period of barium influx. These results suggest that part of the slope decline might result from processes related to calcium uptake and not to membrane conductance decrease. 5. Dye absorbance changes during normal and TEA action potentials were measured. Comparison of these changes with voltage clamp records indicated that calcium influx during a spike was capable of raising concentration by roughly 2 X 10(-7) M if the cell were considered to be a uniform sphere with no buffering capacity. Calcium influx during action potentials was increased dramatically by TEA, primarily as a result of a prolonged plateau phase. The existence and duration of the plateau was controlled mainly by potassium conductance systems, however. There was no evidence found for facilitation of the calcium conductance. 6. Following a moderate influx of calcium it required 20--60 sec, depending on the neurone, for the dye absorbance to return to base line (at 9 degrees C). The recovery time course showed a marked difference when examined at different wavelengths. For lambda = 660 nm there was an initial period in which the absorbance decreased rapidly, followed by a slower phase which generally carried the absorbance below the initial (prepulse) value...", "PMID": 439040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4430", "title": "Metabolism of boar spermatozoa before, during preparation for, and after storage in liquid nitrogen.", "content": "Boar spermatozoa incorporated more [14C]glycerol into lipid when incubated with 200 mM- than with 25 mM-glycerol. Measurements were made of the metabolism of spermatozoa while they were being prepared for frozen storage. [14C]-Glucose was converted to CO2 and lipid while the cells were cooling to 15 degrees C. Glycerol was added at 15 degrees C and during further cooling to 5 degrees C glucose metabolism was greatly reduced but [14C]glycerol was converted to CO2 and lipid. Under aerobic conditions spermatozoa accumulated lactate while cooling from 30 to 15 degrees C and from 15 to 5 degrees C. With essentially anaerobic conditions, although more lactate was accumulated this occurred only while the cells were cooling from 30 to 15 degrees C, and no further accumulation could be detected during cooling from 15 to 5 degrees C. When boar spermatozoa were incubated at 37 degrees C after storage in liquid nitrogen, metabolism of glycerol was greater than metabolism of glucose. It is suggested that this preferential use of glycerol during cooling and after storage may be one facet of its cryoprotective function. After storage, boar spermatozoa incorporated relatively less [14C]stearic and [14C]palmitic acids into phospholipids (especially phosphatidyl choline) than did freshly collected cells. Caffeine stimulated the oxygen uptake of freshly collected and thawed cells.", "contents": "Metabolism of boar spermatozoa before, during preparation for, and after storage in liquid nitrogen. Boar spermatozoa incorporated more [14C]glycerol into lipid when incubated with 200 mM- than with 25 mM-glycerol. Measurements were made of the metabolism of spermatozoa while they were being prepared for frozen storage. [14C]-Glucose was converted to CO2 and lipid while the cells were cooling to 15 degrees C. Glycerol was added at 15 degrees C and during further cooling to 5 degrees C glucose metabolism was greatly reduced but [14C]glycerol was converted to CO2 and lipid. Under aerobic conditions spermatozoa accumulated lactate while cooling from 30 to 15 degrees C and from 15 to 5 degrees C. With essentially anaerobic conditions, although more lactate was accumulated this occurred only while the cells were cooling from 30 to 15 degrees C, and no further accumulation could be detected during cooling from 15 to 5 degrees C. When boar spermatozoa were incubated at 37 degrees C after storage in liquid nitrogen, metabolism of glycerol was greater than metabolism of glucose. It is suggested that this preferential use of glycerol during cooling and after storage may be one facet of its cryoprotective function. After storage, boar spermatozoa incorporated relatively less [14C]stearic and [14C]palmitic acids into phospholipids (especially phosphatidyl choline) than did freshly collected cells. Caffeine stimulated the oxygen uptake of freshly collected and thawed cells.", "PMID": 439061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4431", "title": "Effects of osmolality, bicarbonate and buffer on the metabolism and motility of testicular, epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa of boars.", "content": "Spermatozoa were collected from the rete testis of conscious boars, from the cauda epididymidis by retro-flushing, and by ejaculation. Testicular spermatozoa showed no progressive motility, and that of ejaculated was greater than that of epididymal spermatozoa. Glycolysis and respiration of testicular spermatozoa, while lower than that of the more mature cells, were only slightly affected by the incubation conditions. Epididymal spermatozoa converted 83% of the glucose they utilized to CO2 or lactate, but testicular cells converted only 35% to these metabolites. Synthesis of lipid was greatest by testicular spermatozoa. With the more mature cells hyperosmolar conditions depressed CO2 production, but increased lactate production, and these changes were greater for ejaculated than for epididymal spermatozoa. Glycolysis plus respiration of these cells was related to their motility. These results were interpreted as showing increasing motility, glycolysis and respiration with maturation, but also decreased synthetic capacity and increased sensitivity to the environment.", "contents": "Effects of osmolality, bicarbonate and buffer on the metabolism and motility of testicular, epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa of boars. Spermatozoa were collected from the rete testis of conscious boars, from the cauda epididymidis by retro-flushing, and by ejaculation. Testicular spermatozoa showed no progressive motility, and that of ejaculated was greater than that of epididymal spermatozoa. Glycolysis and respiration of testicular spermatozoa, while lower than that of the more mature cells, were only slightly affected by the incubation conditions. Epididymal spermatozoa converted 83% of the glucose they utilized to CO2 or lactate, but testicular cells converted only 35% to these metabolites. Synthesis of lipid was greatest by testicular spermatozoa. With the more mature cells hyperosmolar conditions depressed CO2 production, but increased lactate production, and these changes were greater for ejaculated than for epididymal spermatozoa. Glycolysis plus respiration of these cells was related to their motility. These results were interpreted as showing increasing motility, glycolysis and respiration with maturation, but also decreased synthetic capacity and increased sensitivity to the environment.", "PMID": 439062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4432", "title": "Effects of urine from pregnant and lactating female house mice on oestrous cycles of adult females.", "content": "It was demonstrated that mice treated with urine from pregnant or lactating females experienced longer periods of oestrus than did mice treated with water or urine from singly caged females. Application of urine by means of perforated capsules placed in the cage of the test mouse showed that the factor(s) responsible for the longer periods of oestrus was an airborne pheromone. The females experiencing longer oestrous periods ovulated (ova in oviducts), became pregnant and gave birth.", "contents": "Effects of urine from pregnant and lactating female house mice on oestrous cycles of adult females. It was demonstrated that mice treated with urine from pregnant or lactating females experienced longer periods of oestrus than did mice treated with water or urine from singly caged females. Application of urine by means of perforated capsules placed in the cage of the test mouse showed that the factor(s) responsible for the longer periods of oestrus was an airborne pheromone. The females experiencing longer oestrous periods ovulated (ova in oviducts), became pregnant and gave birth.", "PMID": 439063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4433", "title": "Measurement of thymus weight, lumbar node weight and progesterone levels in syngeneically pregnant, allogeneically pregnant, and pseudopregnant mice.", "content": "Female CBA mice were mated to fertile CBA males, to vasectomized CBA males, to fertile C57BL males or to vasectomized C57BL males. After allogeneic or syngeneic mating the extent of thymic involution on the 10th day of pregnancy and pseudopregnancy was similar. Lumbar lymph node weight was not affected by pseudopregnancy but increased similarly in allogeneic and syngeneic pregnancies. Serum progesterone levels on the 10th day of pseudopregnancy were similar to those of non-pregnant females, and significantly lower than those of pregnant females. On the 4th to 7th days progesterone levels in pseudopregnant animals were equal to those in pregnant animals. Progesterone levels and thymic involution were similar in syngeneically and allogeneically pregnant females. Progesterone levels were negatively correlated with thymus weight but reached significance only when the mating was allogeneic. It is suggested that there is an interaction between progesterone concentrations and the degree of thymic involution during pregnancy.", "contents": "Measurement of thymus weight, lumbar node weight and progesterone levels in syngeneically pregnant, allogeneically pregnant, and pseudopregnant mice. Female CBA mice were mated to fertile CBA males, to vasectomized CBA males, to fertile C57BL males or to vasectomized C57BL males. After allogeneic or syngeneic mating the extent of thymic involution on the 10th day of pregnancy and pseudopregnancy was similar. Lumbar lymph node weight was not affected by pseudopregnancy but increased similarly in allogeneic and syngeneic pregnancies. Serum progesterone levels on the 10th day of pseudopregnancy were similar to those of non-pregnant females, and significantly lower than those of pregnant females. On the 4th to 7th days progesterone levels in pseudopregnant animals were equal to those in pregnant animals. Progesterone levels and thymic involution were similar in syngeneically and allogeneically pregnant females. Progesterone levels were negatively correlated with thymus weight but reached significance only when the mating was allogeneic. It is suggested that there is an interaction between progesterone concentrations and the degree of thymic involution during pregnancy.", "PMID": 439064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4434", "title": "Effects of vasectomy on the blood-testis barrier of the hamster.", "content": "The effects of vasectomy on the blood-testis and blood-epididymal barriers to 3H2O, [3H]inulin, and [14C]urea were examined by study of the radioactivity appearing in micropuncture samples of fluids from the seminiferous tubules and cauda epididymidis. By 4 months after vasectomy, there were changes in the blood-seminiferous tubule barrier to [3H]water and [14C]urea (increased entry) and in the blood-epididymal barrier to [3H]water and [3H]inulin (increased entry) and to [14C]urea (decreased entry). These subtle changes could have an impact on spermatogenesis and/or sperm maturation after vasectomy.", "contents": "Effects of vasectomy on the blood-testis barrier of the hamster. The effects of vasectomy on the blood-testis and blood-epididymal barriers to 3H2O, [3H]inulin, and [14C]urea were examined by study of the radioactivity appearing in micropuncture samples of fluids from the seminiferous tubules and cauda epididymidis. By 4 months after vasectomy, there were changes in the blood-seminiferous tubule barrier to [3H]water and [14C]urea (increased entry) and in the blood-epididymal barrier to [3H]water and [3H]inulin (increased entry) and to [14C]urea (decreased entry). These subtle changes could have an impact on spermatogenesis and/or sperm maturation after vasectomy.", "PMID": 439065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4435", "title": "Differential transport of embryos and degenerating ova by the oviducts of the long-tongued bat, Glossophaga soricina.", "content": "Female long-tongued bats which had been maintained in sexually segregated groups in captivity for more than 8 months were bred and killed at various intervals between Days 1 and 25 post coitum. Their reproductive tracts were then examined histologically. In 20 of the 28 bats carrying tubal embryos the remnants of 1-4 other ova were also observed in the oviductal ampullae. These remnants consisted of intact zonae pellucidae containing cellular debris, empty zonae, and/or zona fragments. Since long-tongued bats are monovular, the remnants had apparently been retained in the oviducts from previous, non-fertile reproductive cycles. In 27 of the 31 bats carrying implanting blastocysts, zonae pellucidae probably shed by the embryos had been retained in the oviducts. The remnants of 1-3 ova were also observed in the oviductal ampullae of 22 of the 31 bats carrying uterine blastocysts. In at least 14 of these bats the embryos had by-passed ovum remnants in the oviducts on their way to the uterus. No evidence of such remnants was found in the oviducts of 17 animals with tubal or uterine embryos, although old, as well as new, CL were present in the ovaries.", "contents": "Differential transport of embryos and degenerating ova by the oviducts of the long-tongued bat, Glossophaga soricina. Female long-tongued bats which had been maintained in sexually segregated groups in captivity for more than 8 months were bred and killed at various intervals between Days 1 and 25 post coitum. Their reproductive tracts were then examined histologically. In 20 of the 28 bats carrying tubal embryos the remnants of 1-4 other ova were also observed in the oviductal ampullae. These remnants consisted of intact zonae pellucidae containing cellular debris, empty zonae, and/or zona fragments. Since long-tongued bats are monovular, the remnants had apparently been retained in the oviducts from previous, non-fertile reproductive cycles. In 27 of the 31 bats carrying implanting blastocysts, zonae pellucidae probably shed by the embryos had been retained in the oviducts. The remnants of 1-3 ova were also observed in the oviductal ampullae of 22 of the 31 bats carrying uterine blastocysts. In at least 14 of these bats the embryos had by-passed ovum remnants in the oviducts on their way to the uterus. No evidence of such remnants was found in the oviducts of 17 animals with tubal or uterine embryos, although old, as well as new, CL were present in the ovaries.", "PMID": 439066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4436", "title": "Effect of underfeeding on the inhibition of gonadotrophin secretion by testosterone propionate in rats.", "content": "Single (0 . 25 mg/100 g body wt) or multiple (5 x 20 microgram/100 g) injections of testosterone propionate were given to castrated male rats fed normally or restricted to a 50% intake. Serum FSH and LH levels were higher in the underfed rats and the effectiveness of testosterone propionate in suppressing serum levels of gonadotrophins was increased by underfeeding.", "contents": "Effect of underfeeding on the inhibition of gonadotrophin secretion by testosterone propionate in rats. Single (0 . 25 mg/100 g body wt) or multiple (5 x 20 microgram/100 g) injections of testosterone propionate were given to castrated male rats fed normally or restricted to a 50% intake. Serum FSH and LH levels were higher in the underfed rats and the effectiveness of testosterone propionate in suppressing serum levels of gonadotrophins was increased by underfeeding.", "PMID": 439067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4437", "title": "Radioimmunoassay for PMSG and its application to in-vivo studies.", "content": "A double-antibody radioimmunoassay for PMSG, especially for meauring PMSG in cattle blood after exogenous application, has been developed. A rabbit antiserum against PMSG and pure PMSG for radioiodination were used. There was a strong cross-reaction against equine LH and FSH, but the slight cross-reaction against bovine LH and FSH could be eliminated by adding bovine LH to each tube during the assay. Unspecific, interfering influences of equine or cow serum could be eliminated by adding a constant amount of PMSG-free serum to each tube. PMSG added to 200 microliter of serum could be recovered by this method with a mean of 90 . 5 +/- 9 . 9%. Inhibition curves obtained with pregnant mare serum or cow serum after administration of PMSG were parallel to those obtained with the PMSG standard preparation. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) was 6 . 9%. The inter-assay CV was 12 . 6%. Sensitivity of the assay was 1 mi.u. PMSG/tube. Values of PMSG measured in the serum of pregnant mares by this assay were comparable with those obtained by a bioassay on the same samples. PMSG was still measurable in blood serum about 10 days after injection of 1500-3000 i.u. PMSG. After infusion of 12,000 i.u. PMSG for 3 h (2 heifers), the half-life of PMSG was found to have two components, one of 51 or 40 h and a slower one of 123 or 118 h.", "contents": "Radioimmunoassay for PMSG and its application to in-vivo studies. A double-antibody radioimmunoassay for PMSG, especially for meauring PMSG in cattle blood after exogenous application, has been developed. A rabbit antiserum against PMSG and pure PMSG for radioiodination were used. There was a strong cross-reaction against equine LH and FSH, but the slight cross-reaction against bovine LH and FSH could be eliminated by adding bovine LH to each tube during the assay. Unspecific, interfering influences of equine or cow serum could be eliminated by adding a constant amount of PMSG-free serum to each tube. PMSG added to 200 microliter of serum could be recovered by this method with a mean of 90 . 5 +/- 9 . 9%. Inhibition curves obtained with pregnant mare serum or cow serum after administration of PMSG were parallel to those obtained with the PMSG standard preparation. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) was 6 . 9%. The inter-assay CV was 12 . 6%. Sensitivity of the assay was 1 mi.u. PMSG/tube. Values of PMSG measured in the serum of pregnant mares by this assay were comparable with those obtained by a bioassay on the same samples. PMSG was still measurable in blood serum about 10 days after injection of 1500-3000 i.u. PMSG. After infusion of 12,000 i.u. PMSG for 3 h (2 heifers), the half-life of PMSG was found to have two components, one of 51 or 40 h and a slower one of 123 or 118 h.", "PMID": 439068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4438", "title": "Selective oocyte degeneration and impaired fertility in rats treated with the aliphatic monoterpene, Citral.", "content": "Mature female rats treated with Citral (3-7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienal) either topically for 60 or 100 days or by 6 i.p. injections (at 4-5 day day intervals) showed a marked decrease in the number of normal follicles per section, because oocytes tended to degenerate although the follicular cells remained normal. The reproductive performance after Citral treatment was impaired: there was a reduction in implantation number and litter size and an increased post-implantation fetal wastage. None of the young survived after 100 days of topical Citral treatment. It is suggested that Citral directly affects the oocytes.", "contents": "Selective oocyte degeneration and impaired fertility in rats treated with the aliphatic monoterpene, Citral. Mature female rats treated with Citral (3-7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienal) either topically for 60 or 100 days or by 6 i.p. injections (at 4-5 day day intervals) showed a marked decrease in the number of normal follicles per section, because oocytes tended to degenerate although the follicular cells remained normal. The reproductive performance after Citral treatment was impaired: there was a reduction in implantation number and litter size and an increased post-implantation fetal wastage. None of the young survived after 100 days of topical Citral treatment. It is suggested that Citral directly affects the oocytes.", "PMID": 439069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4439", "title": "Plasma levels of progesterone, provera, oestradiol-17beta, and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F in cows treated with provera-impregnated intravaginal sponges.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of progesterone and Provera were measured daily in 3 cows during 21 days of treatment with Provera-impregnated intravaginal sponges. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol-17beta and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F (PGFM) were measured hourly from 5 h before until 62 h after sponge removal. The profile of progesterone concentrations indicated that luteolysis occurred at the expected time (Days 19 to 23 of the cycle), even though plasma Provera concentrations were 150-250 pg/ml. The occurrence of peaks of PGFM after sponge withdrawal suggests that PGF-2alpha release is stimulated by falling levels of progestagen.", "contents": "Plasma levels of progesterone, provera, oestradiol-17beta, and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F in cows treated with provera-impregnated intravaginal sponges. Plasma concentrations of progesterone and Provera were measured daily in 3 cows during 21 days of treatment with Provera-impregnated intravaginal sponges. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol-17beta and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F (PGFM) were measured hourly from 5 h before until 62 h after sponge removal. The profile of progesterone concentrations indicated that luteolysis occurred at the expected time (Days 19 to 23 of the cycle), even though plasma Provera concentrations were 150-250 pg/ml. The occurrence of peaks of PGFM after sponge withdrawal suggests that PGF-2alpha release is stimulated by falling levels of progestagen.", "PMID": 439070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4440", "title": "Gonadotrophin-induced accumulation of 'interstitial fluid' in the rat testis.", "content": "'Interstitial fluid' containing high levels of testosterone (60-250 ng/ml) was recovered from the testes of rats, the amounts increasing with increase in age and testis weight. Injection of 170 i.u. hCG/kg resulted 20 h later in significant increases in interstitial fluid and its testosterone content (300-800 ng/ml). In immature rats this effect of hCG was dose-dependent and time-related and the accumulated fluid contained high levels of potassium and phosphate; levels of sodium, calcium and protein were similar to those in serum. At 20 h after injection of hCG, other testicular changes were (1) increased 'adhesiveness', (2) reduced in-vitro binding of 125I-labelled hCG, and (3) an hCG-induced increase in the testis:blood ratio of hCG in vivo.", "contents": "Gonadotrophin-induced accumulation of 'interstitial fluid' in the rat testis. 'Interstitial fluid' containing high levels of testosterone (60-250 ng/ml) was recovered from the testes of rats, the amounts increasing with increase in age and testis weight. Injection of 170 i.u. hCG/kg resulted 20 h later in significant increases in interstitial fluid and its testosterone content (300-800 ng/ml). In immature rats this effect of hCG was dose-dependent and time-related and the accumulated fluid contained high levels of potassium and phosphate; levels of sodium, calcium and protein were similar to those in serum. At 20 h after injection of hCG, other testicular changes were (1) increased 'adhesiveness', (2) reduced in-vitro binding of 125I-labelled hCG, and (3) an hCG-induced increase in the testis:blood ratio of hCG in vivo.", "PMID": 439071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4441", "title": "The occurrence of non-tubal ectopic pregnancies in women with an intrauterine device.", "content": "The occurrence of intra-ovarian gestation in 2 women and an abdominal pregnancy in a third, all bearing IUDs, is described.", "contents": "The occurrence of non-tubal ectopic pregnancies in women with an intrauterine device. The occurrence of intra-ovarian gestation in 2 women and an abdominal pregnancy in a third, all bearing IUDs, is described.", "PMID": 439072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4442", "title": "The effects of vasectomy on testicular metabolism in the guinea-pig.", "content": "The effects of vasectomy on testicular DNA production were studied in guinea-pigs at 2 weeks and 2 and 6 months after surgery. By 6 months, vasectomy had resulted in lower testicular weight and absolute DNA, RNA and protein contents, although RNA and DNA concentrations/protein were unchanged. Incorporation of thymidine into the testis had decreased by 2 weeks after vasectomy, and continued to do so unless the ductal system subsequently ruptured and formed a granuloma when thymidine incorporation returned to normal control levels. It is suggested that in the guinea=pig vasectomy alters spermatogenesis by reducing testicular DNA synthesis.", "contents": "The effects of vasectomy on testicular metabolism in the guinea-pig. The effects of vasectomy on testicular DNA production were studied in guinea-pigs at 2 weeks and 2 and 6 months after surgery. By 6 months, vasectomy had resulted in lower testicular weight and absolute DNA, RNA and protein contents, although RNA and DNA concentrations/protein were unchanged. Incorporation of thymidine into the testis had decreased by 2 weeks after vasectomy, and continued to do so unless the ductal system subsequently ruptured and formed a granuloma when thymidine incorporation returned to normal control levels. It is suggested that in the guinea=pig vasectomy alters spermatogenesis by reducing testicular DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 439073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4443", "title": "Incidence of polyspermy in mouse eggs fertilized in vivo and in vitro after administration of progesterone and oestradiol.", "content": "Female mice, induced to superovulate, were injected subcutaneously with progesterone or oestradiol near the time when hCG was given. The incidence of polyspermy in first-cleavage embryos following mating or in-vitro fertilization was then determined. There were no detectable differences in the incidence or degree of polyspermy between treated and control in either the in-vitro or in-vivo groups, although the mean incidence of polyspermy was higher in vitro than in vivo. Furthermore, there was no detectable acceleration of egg transport after administration of either hormone.", "contents": "Incidence of polyspermy in mouse eggs fertilized in vivo and in vitro after administration of progesterone and oestradiol. Female mice, induced to superovulate, were injected subcutaneously with progesterone or oestradiol near the time when hCG was given. The incidence of polyspermy in first-cleavage embryos following mating or in-vitro fertilization was then determined. There were no detectable differences in the incidence or degree of polyspermy between treated and control in either the in-vitro or in-vivo groups, although the mean incidence of polyspermy was higher in vitro than in vivo. Furthermore, there was no detectable acceleration of egg transport after administration of either hormone.", "PMID": 439074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4444", "title": "Sperm head length as a predictor of fecundity in the sandhill crane, Grus canadensis.", "content": "Semen samples from 14 sandhill cranes were collected for 15 weeks. Mean sperm head length which did not vary significantly over weeks was found to be significantly correlated with fertility (P less than 0 . 04; r = 0 . 54, n = 14).", "contents": "Sperm head length as a predictor of fecundity in the sandhill crane, Grus canadensis. Semen samples from 14 sandhill cranes were collected for 15 weeks. Mean sperm head length which did not vary significantly over weeks was found to be significantly correlated with fertility (P less than 0 . 04; r = 0 . 54, n = 14).", "PMID": 439075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4445", "title": "Effect of hypophysectomy on mouse oocyte maturation in vitro.", "content": "There was no difference in frequency of maturation of oocytes obtained from mice hypophysectomized for 2 weeks compared to those from sham-operated or untreated (control) animals of the same age. By 7 weeks, and also at 12 and 17 weeks, the incidence of polar body formation in vitro was significantly reduced. The number of oocytes which remained meiotically inactive in culture was increased at 7, 12 and 17 weeks after hypophysectomy. This decrease in spontaneous oocyte maturation in vitro could be partly overcome by administering exogenous PMSG, oestradiol-17beta or PMSG + oestradiol-17beta, but not progesteron or hCG, to hypophysectomized mice.", "contents": "Effect of hypophysectomy on mouse oocyte maturation in vitro. There was no difference in frequency of maturation of oocytes obtained from mice hypophysectomized for 2 weeks compared to those from sham-operated or untreated (control) animals of the same age. By 7 weeks, and also at 12 and 17 weeks, the incidence of polar body formation in vitro was significantly reduced. The number of oocytes which remained meiotically inactive in culture was increased at 7, 12 and 17 weeks after hypophysectomy. This decrease in spontaneous oocyte maturation in vitro could be partly overcome by administering exogenous PMSG, oestradiol-17beta or PMSG + oestradiol-17beta, but not progesteron or hCG, to hypophysectomized mice.", "PMID": 439076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4446", "title": "The effect of LH on the fertilizability and developmental capacity of rat oocytes matured in vitro.", "content": "The effect of adding LH (10 microgram NIH-LH-B8/ml) to the medium in which oocytes were undergoing maturation in vitro was studied. The fertilizability of the oocytes was evaluated in the sterile oviduct of a unilaterally ovariectomized, mated recipient. Freshly ovulated oocytes, used as a control of the method, were fertilized at a rate of 72%. Only 14% of oocytes matured in culture (without LH) were penetrated by spermatozoa, and 11% were fertilized normally. Addition of LH to the medium increased these proportions to 43 and 33% respectively. Oocytes matured in the presence of LH were able to develop into apparently normal rats. It is concluded that, although oocytes can mature in vitro spontaneously, and that these matured oocytes can be fertilized, addition of LH increases the numbers 3-fold. LH therefore has a direct maturation-promoting action on the rat oocyte-cumulus complex in vitro.", "contents": "The effect of LH on the fertilizability and developmental capacity of rat oocytes matured in vitro. The effect of adding LH (10 microgram NIH-LH-B8/ml) to the medium in which oocytes were undergoing maturation in vitro was studied. The fertilizability of the oocytes was evaluated in the sterile oviduct of a unilaterally ovariectomized, mated recipient. Freshly ovulated oocytes, used as a control of the method, were fertilized at a rate of 72%. Only 14% of oocytes matured in culture (without LH) were penetrated by spermatozoa, and 11% were fertilized normally. Addition of LH to the medium increased these proportions to 43 and 33% respectively. Oocytes matured in the presence of LH were able to develop into apparently normal rats. It is concluded that, although oocytes can mature in vitro spontaneously, and that these matured oocytes can be fertilized, addition of LH increases the numbers 3-fold. LH therefore has a direct maturation-promoting action on the rat oocyte-cumulus complex in vitro.", "PMID": 439077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4447", "title": "The state of the device and copper levels in the products of conception in women becoming pregnant with a copper-bearing IUD in situ.", "content": "Of the 8 pregnancies studied, 2 were of small gestational sacs with blighted ova and were associated with devices in which the copper wire had very high detectable X-ray emissions for copper (greater than 90%). In 2 other pregnancies intrauterine deaths had occurred by the time of termination at 13 and 17 weeks and copper levels in the products of conception were variable. There was no abnormality of the fetus in the term pregnancy but it seems possible that copper can affect the early growth and development of the embryo. On only 1 of the 8 devices was any great amount of calcium deposited and it is therefore considered unlikely that calcium deposition increases the risk of pregnancy by preventing the release of copper.", "contents": "The state of the device and copper levels in the products of conception in women becoming pregnant with a copper-bearing IUD in situ. Of the 8 pregnancies studied, 2 were of small gestational sacs with blighted ova and were associated with devices in which the copper wire had very high detectable X-ray emissions for copper (greater than 90%). In 2 other pregnancies intrauterine deaths had occurred by the time of termination at 13 and 17 weeks and copper levels in the products of conception were variable. There was no abnormality of the fetus in the term pregnancy but it seems possible that copper can affect the early growth and development of the embryo. On only 1 of the 8 devices was any great amount of calcium deposited and it is therefore considered unlikely that calcium deposition increases the risk of pregnancy by preventing the release of copper.", "PMID": 439078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4448", "title": "Inhibition of in-vitro fertilization of intact and denuded hamster eggs by univalent anti-sperm antibodies.", "content": "Univalent (Fab) rabbit anti-hamster sperm antibodies added to an in-vitro fertilization system did not interfere with the sperm acrosome reaction or motility, but inhibited cumulus dispersion by the spermatozoa, sperm binding to and passage through the zona pellucida as well as sperm-egg fusion. Addition of the Fab preparations to the capacitated spermatozoa at various times before or up to 40-45 min after the sperm-egg mixing prevented penetration of spermatozoa through the zona pellucida. Detachment of the spermatozoa already bound as well as those partly inside the zona pellucida was achieved by a late addition of antibodies. In experiments with zona-free hamster eggs, addition of the Fab antibodies to the spermatozoa 10 min to 5 h before the introduction of unfertilized eggs reduced the rate of adhesion and fertilization to very low levels. These antibodies were not absorbed on hamster ovary, liver or kidney and had no direct effect on the fertilizability of zona-intact or zona-free eggs.", "contents": "Inhibition of in-vitro fertilization of intact and denuded hamster eggs by univalent anti-sperm antibodies. Univalent (Fab) rabbit anti-hamster sperm antibodies added to an in-vitro fertilization system did not interfere with the sperm acrosome reaction or motility, but inhibited cumulus dispersion by the spermatozoa, sperm binding to and passage through the zona pellucida as well as sperm-egg fusion. Addition of the Fab preparations to the capacitated spermatozoa at various times before or up to 40-45 min after the sperm-egg mixing prevented penetration of spermatozoa through the zona pellucida. Detachment of the spermatozoa already bound as well as those partly inside the zona pellucida was achieved by a late addition of antibodies. In experiments with zona-free hamster eggs, addition of the Fab antibodies to the spermatozoa 10 min to 5 h before the introduction of unfertilized eggs reduced the rate of adhesion and fertilization to very low levels. These antibodies were not absorbed on hamster ovary, liver or kidney and had no direct effect on the fertilizability of zona-intact or zona-free eggs.", "PMID": 439079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4449", "title": "The effect of reserpine, oestradiol and in-vitro perfusion on oviduct calcium levels in the mouse during egg transport.", "content": "Mouse oviduct calcium content, determined by atomic absorbance after ashing of the tissue, showed a significant fall on Day 2 of pregnancy followed by a significant rise on Day 3. This pattern was altered by administration of reserpine and oestradiol in doses which were shown to alter the rate of egg transport. In-vitro perfusion of the oviduct, capable of maintaining muscular activity and back and forth movement of eggs for 24 h, was associated with lack of forward progressive motion of eggs and by a more rapid increase in tissue calcium levels during incubation than occurred in vivo.", "contents": "The effect of reserpine, oestradiol and in-vitro perfusion on oviduct calcium levels in the mouse during egg transport. Mouse oviduct calcium content, determined by atomic absorbance after ashing of the tissue, showed a significant fall on Day 2 of pregnancy followed by a significant rise on Day 3. This pattern was altered by administration of reserpine and oestradiol in doses which were shown to alter the rate of egg transport. In-vitro perfusion of the oviduct, capable of maintaining muscular activity and back and forth movement of eggs for 24 h, was associated with lack of forward progressive motion of eggs and by a more rapid increase in tissue calcium levels during incubation than occurred in vivo.", "PMID": 439080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4450", "title": "Complete and partial vaginal agenesis.", "content": "The proper diagnosis and treatment of a patient with vaginal agenesis demands a thorough knowledge of the relevant embryology, anatomy and physiology as well as sensitivity to the potentially emotionally devastating effects of the condition. Ten patients with vaginal agenesis were evaluated and treated at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center over a three-year period. The patients fell into three groups, those with: (1) M\u00fcllerian atresia, complete or partial; (2) maldevelopment of the lower one-third of the vagina; and (3) testicular ferminization. Other congenital anomalies existed in many of these patients. Most of the patients were treated with the Frank method of vaginal development with good results. Some underwent surgical correction.", "contents": "Complete and partial vaginal agenesis. The proper diagnosis and treatment of a patient with vaginal agenesis demands a thorough knowledge of the relevant embryology, anatomy and physiology as well as sensitivity to the potentially emotionally devastating effects of the condition. Ten patients with vaginal agenesis were evaluated and treated at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center over a three-year period. The patients fell into three groups, those with: (1) M\u00fcllerian atresia, complete or partial; (2) maldevelopment of the lower one-third of the vagina; and (3) testicular ferminization. Other congenital anomalies existed in many of these patients. Most of the patients were treated with the Frank method of vaginal development with good results. Some underwent surgical correction.", "PMID": 439081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4451", "title": "A preliminary report of \"subclinical varicocele\": diagnosis by Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope. Examination and initial results of surgical therapy.", "content": "Two hundred sixteen consecutive infertility patients were examined with the Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope to detect incompetence of the gonadal vein valves, the precursor of frank varicocele. All 75 men with clinically palpable varicoceles had positive Doppler findings. In 33 cases varicocele could not be definitely excluded because of unsatisfactory physical examinations; the Doppler findings were negative in 13, positive in 13 and equivocal in 7 of these men. Eighty-nine men had no evidence of varicocele on physical examination and negative Doppler findings. However, 19, patients with no palpable varicocele had positive Doppler examinations. With respect to testicular size and semen quality, this subclinical varicocele group could not be clearly distinguished from patients with idiopathic semen quality depression. Nevertheless, five men with subclinical varicocele and oligoasthenospermia underwent internal spermatic vein ligation. Postoperatively, four had negative Doppler examinations. Two patients showed a significant improvement in semen quality, and both men fathered children after several months. We believe that these preliminary results justify further investigation of \"subclinical varicocele\".", "contents": "A preliminary report of \"subclinical varicocele\": diagnosis by Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope. Examination and initial results of surgical therapy. Two hundred sixteen consecutive infertility patients were examined with the Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope to detect incompetence of the gonadal vein valves, the precursor of frank varicocele. All 75 men with clinically palpable varicoceles had positive Doppler findings. In 33 cases varicocele could not be definitely excluded because of unsatisfactory physical examinations; the Doppler findings were negative in 13, positive in 13 and equivocal in 7 of these men. Eighty-nine men had no evidence of varicocele on physical examination and negative Doppler findings. However, 19, patients with no palpable varicocele had positive Doppler examinations. With respect to testicular size and semen quality, this subclinical varicocele group could not be clearly distinguished from patients with idiopathic semen quality depression. Nevertheless, five men with subclinical varicocele and oligoasthenospermia underwent internal spermatic vein ligation. Postoperatively, four had negative Doppler examinations. Two patients showed a significant improvement in semen quality, and both men fathered children after several months. We believe that these preliminary results justify further investigation of \"subclinical varicocele\".", "PMID": 439082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4452", "title": "Ovarian hemorrhage in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy.", "content": "During a 10-year period, five laparotomies were performed on three patients for hemorrhage from nonneoplastic ovarian lesions that occurred while the patients were on anticoagulant therapy. The patients were stabilized with blood transfusions, given medication to reverse the anticoagulants and underwent immediate surgery. Nineteen similar patients have been reported on previously. During the brief follow-up a 31% incidence of recurrent hemorrhage was observed in those patients continued on anticoagulants postoperatively. All physicians caring for women on anticoagulants should be on the alert for this life-threatening complication.", "contents": "Ovarian hemorrhage in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy. During a 10-year period, five laparotomies were performed on three patients for hemorrhage from nonneoplastic ovarian lesions that occurred while the patients were on anticoagulant therapy. The patients were stabilized with blood transfusions, given medication to reverse the anticoagulants and underwent immediate surgery. Nineteen similar patients have been reported on previously. During the brief follow-up a 31% incidence of recurrent hemorrhage was observed in those patients continued on anticoagulants postoperatively. All physicians caring for women on anticoagulants should be on the alert for this life-threatening complication.", "PMID": 439083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4453", "title": "Ectopic pregnancy. An eight-year review.", "content": "Ruptured ectopic pregnancy constitutes a major gynecologic emergency that may result in death. From January 1968 through December 1975, 313 patients with ectopic pregnancy were treated at Chicago Lying-In Hospital. The historical and physical findings, diagnostic procedures, causative factors and patient management are reviewed and discussed. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain and amenorrhea. More than half the patients were misdiagnosed prior to admission. Only 30% had distinct adnexal masses. The treatment of choice was salpingectomy unless the opposite tube was absent or damaged. Three deaths occurred in this series. Only 31% of the patients gave histopathologic evidence of pelvic inflammatory disease.", "contents": "Ectopic pregnancy. An eight-year review. Ruptured ectopic pregnancy constitutes a major gynecologic emergency that may result in death. From January 1968 through December 1975, 313 patients with ectopic pregnancy were treated at Chicago Lying-In Hospital. The historical and physical findings, diagnostic procedures, causative factors and patient management are reviewed and discussed. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain and amenorrhea. More than half the patients were misdiagnosed prior to admission. Only 30% had distinct adnexal masses. The treatment of choice was salpingectomy unless the opposite tube was absent or damaged. Three deaths occurred in this series. Only 31% of the patients gave histopathologic evidence of pelvic inflammatory disease.", "PMID": 439084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4454", "title": "Verrucous carcinoma of the vulva.", "content": "A case of invasive verrucous carcinoma of the vulva is reported. The English literature is reviewed and the mode of therapy discussed.", "contents": "Verrucous carcinoma of the vulva. A case of invasive verrucous carcinoma of the vulva is reported. The English literature is reviewed and the mode of therapy discussed.", "PMID": 439085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4455", "title": "Urinary nitrogen excretion as related to dietary protein in pregnant women.", "content": "The amount of urea in the urine acutely decreases when dietary protein is restricted. This change in urinary urea nitrogen can be represented satisfactorily by the urea nitrogen/total nitrogen (UN/TN) ratio or the UN/creatinine nitrogen (UN/CN) ratio. These determinations are apparently effective tools for simply and objectively describing the recent protein intake of pregnant women.", "contents": "Urinary nitrogen excretion as related to dietary protein in pregnant women. The amount of urea in the urine acutely decreases when dietary protein is restricted. This change in urinary urea nitrogen can be represented satisfactorily by the urea nitrogen/total nitrogen (UN/TN) ratio or the UN/creatinine nitrogen (UN/CN) ratio. These determinations are apparently effective tools for simply and objectively describing the recent protein intake of pregnant women.", "PMID": 439087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4456", "title": "Ovarian surface papillomatosis of borderline malignancy.", "content": "Bilateral ovarian surface papillomatosis of borderline malignancy is a rare condition. In our case it was associated with benign serous cystadenofibroma. The histologic diagnosis and the clinical aspects are discussed.", "contents": "Ovarian surface papillomatosis of borderline malignancy. Bilateral ovarian surface papillomatosis of borderline malignancy is a rare condition. In our case it was associated with benign serous cystadenofibroma. The histologic diagnosis and the clinical aspects are discussed.", "PMID": 439088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4457", "title": "Reliability factors of delivery due dates.", "content": "This study attempted to identify the factors that are most important in establishing accurate pregnancy due dates. It quantitated the influence of many factors that affect the duration of pregnancy, as calculated from the last menstrual period, with data from a large prospective study. To limit the influence of maternal constitutional factors, analyses were conducted on the differences between the durations of repeat pregnancies in the same mothers. The mean difference between the calculated durations of successive pregnancies in 4,599 mothers was 18 days. This difference was reduced to 10 days when the pregnancies had been planned and the dates of the last menstrual period had been recorded in the first trimester of pregnancy. Many other factors, including maternal and fetal disorders, significantly altered the length of individual pregnancies but had no significant influence on the overall duration of pregnancies in the study.", "contents": "Reliability factors of delivery due dates. This study attempted to identify the factors that are most important in establishing accurate pregnancy due dates. It quantitated the influence of many factors that affect the duration of pregnancy, as calculated from the last menstrual period, with data from a large prospective study. To limit the influence of maternal constitutional factors, analyses were conducted on the differences between the durations of repeat pregnancies in the same mothers. The mean difference between the calculated durations of successive pregnancies in 4,599 mothers was 18 days. This difference was reduced to 10 days when the pregnancies had been planned and the dates of the last menstrual period had been recorded in the first trimester of pregnancy. Many other factors, including maternal and fetal disorders, significantly altered the length of individual pregnancies but had no significant influence on the overall duration of pregnancies in the study.", "PMID": 439089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4458", "title": "Utilization of gyniatricians as primary health care providers for women.", "content": "The role, functions, activities, educational preparation and relationship with other health professionals of a new type of primary health care provider is described. The name gyniatrician has been applied to this kind of physician, who will be qualified to provide overall primary health care for women from the onset of puberty through adult life.", "contents": "Utilization of gyniatricians as primary health care providers for women. The role, functions, activities, educational preparation and relationship with other health professionals of a new type of primary health care provider is described. The name gyniatrician has been applied to this kind of physician, who will be qualified to provide overall primary health care for women from the onset of puberty through adult life.", "PMID": 439090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4459", "title": "An unusual cause of postoperative fever: a case report.", "content": "A typical gynecologic approach to postoperative fever and its theoretical as well as practical shortcomings is discussed. Difficulties in establishing a specific diagnosis in the gynecologic patient with postoperative fever are explored. A case of exacerbation of dermatomyositis in the immediate postoperative period illustrates the failings of our current approach to postoperative fever.", "contents": "An unusual cause of postoperative fever: a case report. A typical gynecologic approach to postoperative fever and its theoretical as well as practical shortcomings is discussed. Difficulties in establishing a specific diagnosis in the gynecologic patient with postoperative fever are explored. A case of exacerbation of dermatomyositis in the immediate postoperative period illustrates the failings of our current approach to postoperative fever.", "PMID": 439091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4460", "title": "Congenital incompetence of the cervical os: reduction of bulging membranes with a modified Foley catheter.", "content": "A case is described of congenital incompetence of the cervix associated with pronounced bulging of the fetal membranes through the cervical os. The patient, a primigravida, presented at 25 weeks' gestation without any evidence of uterine activity. She had no past history of cervical surgery or disease. The tip beyond the bulb of a size 22 Foley catheter was removed. We inflated the bulb progressively while applying sustained, gentle pressure to the bag of forewaters. Upon reducing the membranes to within the uterine cavity, we inflated the bulb of the catheter further with saline to a total volume of 25 cc. This procedure maintained the catheter within the uterine cavity and facilitated the insertion of a MacDonald cerclage in the region of the internal cervical os.", "contents": "Congenital incompetence of the cervical os: reduction of bulging membranes with a modified Foley catheter. A case is described of congenital incompetence of the cervix associated with pronounced bulging of the fetal membranes through the cervical os. The patient, a primigravida, presented at 25 weeks' gestation without any evidence of uterine activity. She had no past history of cervical surgery or disease. The tip beyond the bulb of a size 22 Foley catheter was removed. We inflated the bulb progressively while applying sustained, gentle pressure to the bag of forewaters. Upon reducing the membranes to within the uterine cavity, we inflated the bulb of the catheter further with saline to a total volume of 25 cc. This procedure maintained the catheter within the uterine cavity and facilitated the insertion of a MacDonald cerclage in the region of the internal cervical os.", "PMID": 439092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4461", "title": "Spontaneous rupture of a primigravid uterus.", "content": "The spontaneous rupture of the primigravid uterus is an obstetric rarity prior to the onset of labor. Invariably there is a history of antecedent scarring. A case of uterine rupture is reported on where the only antecedent history was damage by the second trocar during laparoscopy. The use of electrocautery and the immediacy of subsequent conception are probably implicated in the pathogenesis. It is recommended that should the fundus be damaged during laparoscopy as part of a subfertility investigation, barrier contraception should be advised for a two-month period.", "contents": "Spontaneous rupture of a primigravid uterus. The spontaneous rupture of the primigravid uterus is an obstetric rarity prior to the onset of labor. Invariably there is a history of antecedent scarring. A case of uterine rupture is reported on where the only antecedent history was damage by the second trocar during laparoscopy. The use of electrocautery and the immediacy of subsequent conception are probably implicated in the pathogenesis. It is recommended that should the fundus be damaged during laparoscopy as part of a subfertility investigation, barrier contraception should be advised for a two-month period.", "PMID": 439093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4462", "title": "Systemic Herpesvirus hominis in pregnancy.", "content": "Primary genital herpesvirus infection occurring in late gestation may provide the portal of entry for systemic infection. This report describes the clinical events and pathologic findings of lethal disseminated herpetic infection after a primary genital lesion in late gestation and reviews the physiologic changes of pregnancy that may cause the failure of normal defenses against the systemic spread of the virus.", "contents": "Systemic Herpesvirus hominis in pregnancy. Primary genital herpesvirus infection occurring in late gestation may provide the portal of entry for systemic infection. This report describes the clinical events and pathologic findings of lethal disseminated herpetic infection after a primary genital lesion in late gestation and reviews the physiologic changes of pregnancy that may cause the failure of normal defenses against the systemic spread of the virus.", "PMID": 439094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4463", "title": "A rapid, sensitive technique to assay penicillamine levels in blood and urine.", "content": "We have used a rapid, sensitive technique to assay penicillamine and its disulphide metabolites in body fluids. Penicillamine in serum is rapidly oxidized and the serum levels of the reduced material found in a pilot study of 10 patients ranged between 0.07 to 0.28 mg%. This technique may prove useful in allowing closer monitoring of therapy with this agent.", "contents": "A rapid, sensitive technique to assay penicillamine levels in blood and urine. We have used a rapid, sensitive technique to assay penicillamine and its disulphide metabolites in body fluids. Penicillamine in serum is rapidly oxidized and the serum levels of the reduced material found in a pilot study of 10 patients ranged between 0.07 to 0.28 mg%. This technique may prove useful in allowing closer monitoring of therapy with this agent.", "PMID": 439105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4464", "title": "An assessment of penicillamine therapy in rheumatoid arthritis and the influence of previous gold therapy.", "content": "One hundred and fourteen patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had received treatment with penicillamine are reviewed. Side effects occurred in 50 patients. Sixty patients were considered to be improved with the drug. Low and high maintenance regimes were compared. There was no significant difference in the incidence of side effects or clinical improvement. Previous gold therapy did not influence the therapeutic response or total incidence of side effects observed with penicillamine. Rashes were, however, more common if patients had previously had treatment with gold.", "contents": "An assessment of penicillamine therapy in rheumatoid arthritis and the influence of previous gold therapy. One hundred and fourteen patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had received treatment with penicillamine are reviewed. Side effects occurred in 50 patients. Sixty patients were considered to be improved with the drug. Low and high maintenance regimes were compared. There was no significant difference in the incidence of side effects or clinical improvement. Previous gold therapy did not influence the therapeutic response or total incidence of side effects observed with penicillamine. Rashes were, however, more common if patients had previously had treatment with gold.", "PMID": 439106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4465", "title": "Cytotoxicity in progressive systemic sclerosis: no evidence for increased cytotoxicity against fibroblasts of different origin.", "content": "Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 13 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and 10 normal controls were tested in a cytotoxicity assay against fibroblasts derived from normal adult skin, scleroderma-involved skin and fetal skin. No differences between controls and patients were demonstrated. Sera from patients and controls revealed no differences in cytotoxic effect on scleroderma fibroblast cultures, and patients' sera did not induce antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity when added in combination with control peripheral blood mononuclear cells.", "contents": "Cytotoxicity in progressive systemic sclerosis: no evidence for increased cytotoxicity against fibroblasts of different origin. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 13 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and 10 normal controls were tested in a cytotoxicity assay against fibroblasts derived from normal adult skin, scleroderma-involved skin and fetal skin. No differences between controls and patients were demonstrated. Sera from patients and controls revealed no differences in cytotoxic effect on scleroderma fibroblast cultures, and patients' sera did not induce antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity when added in combination with control peripheral blood mononuclear cells.", "PMID": 439107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4466", "title": "Chronic active hepatitis in a patient presenting with clinical and serological evidence of SLE.", "content": "A patient with clinical and serological manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) without renal or neurological manifestations was managed conservatively for 4 1/2 years. At this time she developed ascites and abnormal liver function tests, and was found to have severe chronic active hepatitis (CAH) with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. No clinical or biochemical evidence of liver disease was documented over the first 3 1/2 years of her illness, though no tests were performed in the 12 months before diagnosis. This case emphasizes the value of monitoring liver function tests over extended periods in such patients, since appropriate immunosuppressive therapy may benefit CAH, and as in this case, systemic manifestations of CAH may simulate SLE and precede clinical liver disease.", "contents": "Chronic active hepatitis in a patient presenting with clinical and serological evidence of SLE. A patient with clinical and serological manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) without renal or neurological manifestations was managed conservatively for 4 1/2 years. At this time she developed ascites and abnormal liver function tests, and was found to have severe chronic active hepatitis (CAH) with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. No clinical or biochemical evidence of liver disease was documented over the first 3 1/2 years of her illness, though no tests were performed in the 12 months before diagnosis. This case emphasizes the value of monitoring liver function tests over extended periods in such patients, since appropriate immunosuppressive therapy may benefit CAH, and as in this case, systemic manifestations of CAH may simulate SLE and precede clinical liver disease.", "PMID": 439109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4467", "title": "Systemic lupus erythematosus, partial lipodystrophy and hypocomplementemia.", "content": "A patient with partial lipodystrophy, increased susceptibility to infection and a clinical picture compatible with systemic lupus erythematosus is described. This patient had persistently low serum C3 levels and a C3-cleaving factor similar to the C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF). During periods of disease inactivity, serum levels of the other components of the classical and alternative pathways of complement measured were normal; heat labile opsonic capacity was low, suggesting functional depletion of factors of the alternative pathway of complement activation.", "contents": "Systemic lupus erythematosus, partial lipodystrophy and hypocomplementemia. A patient with partial lipodystrophy, increased susceptibility to infection and a clinical picture compatible with systemic lupus erythematosus is described. This patient had persistently low serum C3 levels and a C3-cleaving factor similar to the C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF). During periods of disease inactivity, serum levels of the other components of the classical and alternative pathways of complement measured were normal; heat labile opsonic capacity was low, suggesting functional depletion of factors of the alternative pathway of complement activation.", "PMID": 439110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4468", "title": "Osteomalacia complicating a blind loop syndrome from congenital megaesophagus-megaduodenum.", "content": "A young female with osteomalacia complicating a blind loop syndrome associated with congenital megaduodenum is described. In this case, the correction of vitamin D malabsorption by administration of antibiotics highlights the role of massive intraluminal bacterial overgrowth from destruction of vitamin D, or decreased unicellar solubilization due to deconjugation of biliary acids. The importance of cutaneous vitamin D synthesis in patients with osteomalacia of gastrointestinal origin is emphasized. The detection of megaduodenum and megaesophagus in the patient's father may be the first report of a familial association of these gastrointestinal abnormalities.", "contents": "Osteomalacia complicating a blind loop syndrome from congenital megaesophagus-megaduodenum. A young female with osteomalacia complicating a blind loop syndrome associated with congenital megaduodenum is described. In this case, the correction of vitamin D malabsorption by administration of antibiotics highlights the role of massive intraluminal bacterial overgrowth from destruction of vitamin D, or decreased unicellar solubilization due to deconjugation of biliary acids. The importance of cutaneous vitamin D synthesis in patients with osteomalacia of gastrointestinal origin is emphasized. The detection of megaduodenum and megaesophagus in the patient's father may be the first report of a familial association of these gastrointestinal abnormalities.", "PMID": 439112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4469", "title": "Osteomalacia and weakness complicating jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "Five years following jejunoileal intestinal bypass surgery for obesity, a patient developed debilitating weakness and muscle pain. Osteomalacia was suspected clinically by radiographic and laboratory abnormalities and confirmed by bone biopsy. Malabsorption was documented as well as secondary hyperparathyroidism. Successful treatment of this syndrome with vitamin D and calcium identified a medically reversible disorder which obviated the need for surgical reanastomosis.", "contents": "Osteomalacia and weakness complicating jejunoileal bypass. Five years following jejunoileal intestinal bypass surgery for obesity, a patient developed debilitating weakness and muscle pain. Osteomalacia was suspected clinically by radiographic and laboratory abnormalities and confirmed by bone biopsy. Malabsorption was documented as well as secondary hyperparathyroidism. Successful treatment of this syndrome with vitamin D and calcium identified a medically reversible disorder which obviated the need for surgical reanastomosis.", "PMID": 439111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4470", "title": "The development of membranous glomerulonephritis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "content": "A case of classical rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome complicated by the development of membranous glomerulopathy is presented. Circulating immune complexes were demonstrated. The possible relationship between glomerulitis and rheumatoid arthritis is discussed and the literature is reviewed. Chrysotherapy was instituted because of persistent synovitis. The patient responded and her proteinuria did not increase.", "contents": "The development of membranous glomerulonephritis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome. A case of classical rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome complicated by the development of membranous glomerulopathy is presented. Circulating immune complexes were demonstrated. The possible relationship between glomerulitis and rheumatoid arthritis is discussed and the literature is reviewed. Chrysotherapy was instituted because of persistent synovitis. The patient responded and her proteinuria did not increase.", "PMID": 439113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4471", "title": "Electron microscopic study of depot corticosteroid crystals with clinical studies after intra-articular injection.", "content": "Depot corticosteroid crystals and their in vivo handling after intra-articular injection have not been studied by electron microscope (EM). We therefore injected 20 mg of either prednisolone tebuate or triamcinolone hexacetonide into knee joints of 7 patients with osteoarthritis and painful effusions. Six patients had a rise in the synovial fluid leukocyte counts, but only 1 patient had clinical evidence of a post-injection flare. Scanning and transmission EM revealed intra- and extracellular crystals 24 hours and 1 week after the initial injection. These combined EM studies provide an adjunct to compensated polarized microscopy in differentiation of depot steroid from other crystals.", "contents": "Electron microscopic study of depot corticosteroid crystals with clinical studies after intra-articular injection. Depot corticosteroid crystals and their in vivo handling after intra-articular injection have not been studied by electron microscope (EM). We therefore injected 20 mg of either prednisolone tebuate or triamcinolone hexacetonide into knee joints of 7 patients with osteoarthritis and painful effusions. Six patients had a rise in the synovial fluid leukocyte counts, but only 1 patient had clinical evidence of a post-injection flare. Scanning and transmission EM revealed intra- and extracellular crystals 24 hours and 1 week after the initial injection. These combined EM studies provide an adjunct to compensated polarized microscopy in differentiation of depot steroid from other crystals.", "PMID": 439114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4472", "title": "Vasculitis of the gallbladder in a 70-year-old man with giant cell (temporal) arteritis.", "content": "A patient with giant cell (temporal) arteritis developed acute cholecystitis related to vasculitis. Histopathologically, the vasculitic lesions in the gallbladder resembled polyarteritis nodosa. In addition to demonstrating the rare occurrence of vasculitis of the gallbladder in a patient with giant cell arteritis, this case points out the inadequacies of currently used criteria to separate the various forms of arteritis.", "contents": "Vasculitis of the gallbladder in a 70-year-old man with giant cell (temporal) arteritis. A patient with giant cell (temporal) arteritis developed acute cholecystitis related to vasculitis. Histopathologically, the vasculitic lesions in the gallbladder resembled polyarteritis nodosa. In addition to demonstrating the rare occurrence of vasculitis of the gallbladder in a patient with giant cell arteritis, this case points out the inadequacies of currently used criteria to separate the various forms of arteritis.", "PMID": 439115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4473", "title": "Psycho-social adjustment of rheumatoid arthritis patients from two alternative treatment settings.", "content": "Fifty rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients are compared with a control sample of 72 non-patients on five attitude scales which measure psychol-social adjustment. Patients generally indicate more negative attitudes toward self, which are significantly related to variables such as severity of condition and socio-economic status. The adjustment of patients who are being treated by registered nurses (physician extenders) is not significantly different from that of patients who are being treated by physicians.", "contents": "Psycho-social adjustment of rheumatoid arthritis patients from two alternative treatment settings. Fifty rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients are compared with a control sample of 72 non-patients on five attitude scales which measure psychol-social adjustment. Patients generally indicate more negative attitudes toward self, which are significantly related to variables such as severity of condition and socio-economic status. The adjustment of patients who are being treated by registered nurses (physician extenders) is not significantly different from that of patients who are being treated by physicians.", "PMID": 439116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4474", "title": "University center and community hospital: problems in integration.", "content": "This study of health care in Chicago and its suburbs deals with a dilemma faced by many university hospitals located in our nation's metropolitan areas. Because of a massive displacement of population from the city to its suburban ring, some of the major medical centers in Chicago's inner zone have experienced a leveling-off of inpatient admissions. In contrast, outer zone and suburban community hospitals are in need of referral sources with specialized personnel and equipment to accommodate growing admissions. This imbalance would be corrected in a regional network based on an exchange of clients and services. A case study of the University of Chicago Medical Center highlights the tensions, strains, and resistances which inhibit the development of such a system and thus raises questions about the role of the research and teaching hospital in regional health care planning.", "contents": "University center and community hospital: problems in integration. This study of health care in Chicago and its suburbs deals with a dilemma faced by many university hospitals located in our nation's metropolitan areas. Because of a massive displacement of population from the city to its suburban ring, some of the major medical centers in Chicago's inner zone have experienced a leveling-off of inpatient admissions. In contrast, outer zone and suburban community hospitals are in need of referral sources with specialized personnel and equipment to accommodate growing admissions. This imbalance would be corrected in a regional network based on an exchange of clients and services. A case study of the University of Chicago Medical Center highlights the tensions, strains, and resistances which inhibit the development of such a system and thus raises questions about the role of the research and teaching hospital in regional health care planning.", "PMID": 439121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4475", "title": "Hospitals and medical schools as factors in the selection of location of practice.", "content": "A study analyzing the relationship between the state in which a physician practices and the location of residency training was conducted using as subjects 467 individuals who entered graduate medical training programs at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School at Dallas. The study population included physicians who were graduated from medical schools between 1955 and 1969 and who entered a phase of graduate training (internship/residency) at one of Southwestern Medical School's affiliated teaching hospitals. Results of the study support the conclusions of an earlier report that stressed the influence of the location of residency training in retaining physicians in Texas. The statistical findings indicate that if all other factors are equal, additional residency positions filled by graduates of medical schools in the same state might aid in increasing the retention rate of medical practitioners there.", "contents": "Hospitals and medical schools as factors in the selection of location of practice. A study analyzing the relationship between the state in which a physician practices and the location of residency training was conducted using as subjects 467 individuals who entered graduate medical training programs at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School at Dallas. The study population included physicians who were graduated from medical schools between 1955 and 1969 and who entered a phase of graduate training (internship/residency) at one of Southwestern Medical School's affiliated teaching hospitals. Results of the study support the conclusions of an earlier report that stressed the influence of the location of residency training in retaining physicians in Texas. The statistical findings indicate that if all other factors are equal, additional residency positions filled by graduates of medical schools in the same state might aid in increasing the retention rate of medical practitioners there.", "PMID": 439122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4476", "title": "A teaching hospital medical clinic: secondary rather than primary care.", "content": "Although medical clinics in teaching hospitals are said to dispense primary care, the assertion has not been established by formal descriptions of care in such clinics. In this paper the authors describe 287 patient visits to a medical polyclinic (where generalists and subspecialists of internal medicine practice together) over a one-year period. The prevalence of disease was much higher than in existing descriptions of office-based primary care. The majority of visits to subspecialists involved medical problems relevant to the subspecialty, but both subspecialists and generalists dealt with medical problems across subspecialty lines because most patients had multiple problems. Although the data indicate these patients' need for accessibility, comprehensiveness, coordination, and continuity is at least as great as that of patients receiving primary care, this clinic is most appropriately described as a secondary-care facility.", "contents": "A teaching hospital medical clinic: secondary rather than primary care. Although medical clinics in teaching hospitals are said to dispense primary care, the assertion has not been established by formal descriptions of care in such clinics. In this paper the authors describe 287 patient visits to a medical polyclinic (where generalists and subspecialists of internal medicine practice together) over a one-year period. The prevalence of disease was much higher than in existing descriptions of office-based primary care. The majority of visits to subspecialists involved medical problems relevant to the subspecialty, but both subspecialists and generalists dealt with medical problems across subspecialty lines because most patients had multiple problems. Although the data indicate these patients' need for accessibility, comprehensiveness, coordination, and continuity is at least as great as that of patients receiving primary care, this clinic is most appropriately described as a secondary-care facility.", "PMID": 439123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4477", "title": "Histocompatibility antigens in paraplegic or quadriplegic patients with sacroiliac joint changes.", "content": "HLA typing for the A and B loci and radiographic examination of the sacroiliac joints were performed in 54 randomly selected patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia of more than 3 years' duration. The sacroiliac joints were abnormal in 24 patients. No association was found between any of the HLA antigens of the A and B loci and the sacroiliac joint changes. There was, however, an increased incidnece of sacroiliac joint changes in quadriplegic as compared to paraplegic patients.", "contents": "Histocompatibility antigens in paraplegic or quadriplegic patients with sacroiliac joint changes. HLA typing for the A and B loci and radiographic examination of the sacroiliac joints were performed in 54 randomly selected patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia of more than 3 years' duration. The sacroiliac joints were abnormal in 24 patients. No association was found between any of the HLA antigens of the A and B loci and the sacroiliac joint changes. There was, however, an increased incidnece of sacroiliac joint changes in quadriplegic as compared to paraplegic patients.", "PMID": 439117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4478", "title": "Inpatient performance of primary care residents: impact of reduction in time on the ward.", "content": "The inpatient (ward/intensive-care-unit) performance of primary care medical residents was compared with that of their peers in the standard internal medicine residency program. The primary care residents spent half as much time on inpatient rotations as did their peers in the first two years of training. History-taking, physical examination, case presentation, record-keeping, patient management, and overall performance were assessed and scored by the attending physicians using the American Board of Internal Medicine's Clinical Performance Evaluation Form. The performances of the two groups were nearly identical, suggesting that substantial time in the first two years of residency can be devoted to ambulatory training without markedly compromising development of acute care skills.", "contents": "Inpatient performance of primary care residents: impact of reduction in time on the ward. The inpatient (ward/intensive-care-unit) performance of primary care medical residents was compared with that of their peers in the standard internal medicine residency program. The primary care residents spent half as much time on inpatient rotations as did their peers in the first two years of training. History-taking, physical examination, case presentation, record-keeping, patient management, and overall performance were assessed and scored by the attending physicians using the American Board of Internal Medicine's Clinical Performance Evaluation Form. The performances of the two groups were nearly identical, suggesting that substantial time in the first two years of residency can be devoted to ambulatory training without markedly compromising development of acute care skills.", "PMID": 439124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4479", "title": "The impact of a required preceptorship on senior medical students.", "content": "The impact of a required preceptorship program was measured by comparing the perceptions of senior medical students who would have elected the preceptorship rotation had it not been required (the elective group) and those who participated only to fulfill the requirement (the required group). The main difference between the two groups before the preceptorship was the elective group's career preference for family medicine and the required group's preference for an internal medicine subspecialty. The preceptorship had no impact for either group on inclinations toward other specialties, preferred practice setting, or assessment of practice location determinants. Both groups, however, perceived an increase in knowledge of primary care practice and confidence in relevant clinical skills following the preceptorship. These results are used to support the value of a required preceptorship program.", "contents": "The impact of a required preceptorship on senior medical students. The impact of a required preceptorship program was measured by comparing the perceptions of senior medical students who would have elected the preceptorship rotation had it not been required (the elective group) and those who participated only to fulfill the requirement (the required group). The main difference between the two groups before the preceptorship was the elective group's career preference for family medicine and the required group's preference for an internal medicine subspecialty. The preceptorship had no impact for either group on inclinations toward other specialties, preferred practice setting, or assessment of practice location determinants. Both groups, however, perceived an increase in knowledge of primary care practice and confidence in relevant clinical skills following the preceptorship. These results are used to support the value of a required preceptorship program.", "PMID": 439125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4480", "title": "Septic subcutaneous bursitis. Report of sixteen cases.", "content": "Sixteen cases of bacterial infection of subcutaneous bursae were reviewed. Septic subcutaneous bursitis usually occurred following injury to the skin overlying the bursa. Two cases developed after bursal corticosteroid injection for treatment of aseptic bursitis. Bursal fluid culture yielded staphlococci in 14 cases and streptococci in 2. Blood cultures obtained in 8 patients were negative. No patient had clinical manifestations suggestive of bacteremia. Needle and/or incisional drainage of the bursa plus systemic antibiotics led to uneventful recovery in 14 patients. Two patients had chronic drainage. One resolved spontaneously and the other required bursectomy.", "contents": "Septic subcutaneous bursitis. Report of sixteen cases. Sixteen cases of bacterial infection of subcutaneous bursae were reviewed. Septic subcutaneous bursitis usually occurred following injury to the skin overlying the bursa. Two cases developed after bursal corticosteroid injection for treatment of aseptic bursitis. Bursal fluid culture yielded staphlococci in 14 cases and streptococci in 2. Blood cultures obtained in 8 patients were negative. No patient had clinical manifestations suggestive of bacteremia. Needle and/or incisional drainage of the bursa plus systemic antibiotics led to uneventful recovery in 14 patients. Two patients had chronic drainage. One resolved spontaneously and the other required bursectomy.", "PMID": 439118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4481", "title": "Teaching interviewing skills by encountering patients.", "content": "First-year psychiatric residents were observed to lack many interviewing skills considered to be necessary for both physicians and psychiatrists. A method of teaching the skills in a group setting with live patients was constructed. The essential feature of the method is the total direction of attention to the process of interviewing as opposed to the content of the interview. Segments of videotaped interviews of the residents taken before and after the seminar series were rated by examiners who did not know the residents. In addition, participants reported a number of features about this seminar which helped them to improve their interviewing skills. The research results supported the self-report changes, demonstrating that each resident improved on the qualities measured as empathy, congruence, and level of regard.", "contents": "Teaching interviewing skills by encountering patients. First-year psychiatric residents were observed to lack many interviewing skills considered to be necessary for both physicians and psychiatrists. A method of teaching the skills in a group setting with live patients was constructed. The essential feature of the method is the total direction of attention to the process of interviewing as opposed to the content of the interview. Segments of videotaped interviews of the residents taken before and after the seminar series were rated by examiners who did not know the residents. In addition, participants reported a number of features about this seminar which helped them to improve their interviewing skills. The research results supported the self-report changes, demonstrating that each resident improved on the qualities measured as empathy, congruence, and level of regard.", "PMID": 439126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4482", "title": "Two types of amino acid substitutions in protein evolution.", "content": "The frequency of amino acid substitutions, relative to the frequency expected by chance, decreases linearly with the increase in physico-chemical differences between amino acid pairs involved in a substitution. This correlation does not apply to abnormal human hemoglobins. Since abnormal hemoglobins mostly reflect the process of mutation rather than selection, the correlation manifest during protein evolution between substitution frequency and physico-chemical difference in amino acids can be attributed to natural selection. Outside of 'abnormal' proteins, the correlation also does not apply to certain regions of proteins characterized by rapid rates of substitution. In these cases again, except for the largest physico-chemical differences between amino acid pairs, the substitution frequencies seem to be independent of the physico-chemical parameters. The limination of the substituents involving the largest physico-chemical differences can once more be attributed to natural selection. For smaller physico-chemical differences, natural selection, if it is operating in the polypeptide regions, must be based on parameters other than those examined.", "contents": "Two types of amino acid substitutions in protein evolution. The frequency of amino acid substitutions, relative to the frequency expected by chance, decreases linearly with the increase in physico-chemical differences between amino acid pairs involved in a substitution. This correlation does not apply to abnormal human hemoglobins. Since abnormal hemoglobins mostly reflect the process of mutation rather than selection, the correlation manifest during protein evolution between substitution frequency and physico-chemical difference in amino acids can be attributed to natural selection. Outside of 'abnormal' proteins, the correlation also does not apply to certain regions of proteins characterized by rapid rates of substitution. In these cases again, except for the largest physico-chemical differences between amino acid pairs, the substitution frequencies seem to be independent of the physico-chemical parameters. The limination of the substituents involving the largest physico-chemical differences can once more be attributed to natural selection. For smaller physico-chemical differences, natural selection, if it is operating in the polypeptide regions, must be based on parameters other than those examined.", "PMID": 439147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4483", "title": "Prebiotic nucleotide oligomerization in a fluctuating environment: effects of kaolinite and cyanamide.", "content": "The day kaolinite was tested for its ability to promote nucleotide oligomerization in model prebiotic systems. Heterogeneous mixtures of clay, water and nucleotide were repeatedly evaporated to dryness at 60 degrees C and redissolved in water in cyclic fashion in the presence or absence of cyanamide and/or ammonium chloride. With or without cycling, kaolinite alone did not promote the oligomerization of nucleotides at detectable levels. Cycling of clay in combination with cyanamide, however, promoted high levels of condensation to a mixture of oligonucleotides and dinucleotide pyrophosphate without requiring ammonium chloride. Although cycling with clay favored synthesis of dinucleotide pyrophosphate, cycling without clay enhanced formation of oligonucleotides. These results support the hypothesis that the presence of clays in fluctuating environments would have influenced the -ourse of prebiotic condensation reactions.", "contents": "Prebiotic nucleotide oligomerization in a fluctuating environment: effects of kaolinite and cyanamide. The day kaolinite was tested for its ability to promote nucleotide oligomerization in model prebiotic systems. Heterogeneous mixtures of clay, water and nucleotide were repeatedly evaporated to dryness at 60 degrees C and redissolved in water in cyclic fashion in the presence or absence of cyanamide and/or ammonium chloride. With or without cycling, kaolinite alone did not promote the oligomerization of nucleotides at detectable levels. Cycling of clay in combination with cyanamide, however, promoted high levels of condensation to a mixture of oligonucleotides and dinucleotide pyrophosphate without requiring ammonium chloride. Although cycling with clay favored synthesis of dinucleotide pyrophosphate, cycling without clay enhanced formation of oligonucleotides. These results support the hypothesis that the presence of clays in fluctuating environments would have influenced the -ourse of prebiotic condensation reactions.", "PMID": 439148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4484", "title": "Countertransference as a factor in premature termination of apparently successful cases.", "content": "In brief sex therapy rapid disappearance of symptoms may appear to signal success. However, superficial indications of success may be utilized by the sex therapist as an opportunity to escape from a therapeutic situation which evokes uncomfortable feelings. The need to terminate treatment abruptly may be conscious or unconscious. This presentation discusses a few of the multiple factors which may lead the therapist to initiate premature termination or to collude with the patient's problems rather than the patients' to alert clinicians to the adverse effects of countertransference.", "contents": "Countertransference as a factor in premature termination of apparently successful cases. In brief sex therapy rapid disappearance of symptoms may appear to signal success. However, superficial indications of success may be utilized by the sex therapist as an opportunity to escape from a therapeutic situation which evokes uncomfortable feelings. The need to terminate treatment abruptly may be conscious or unconscious. This presentation discusses a few of the multiple factors which may lead the therapist to initiate premature termination or to collude with the patient's problems rather than the patients' to alert clinicians to the adverse effects of countertransference.", "PMID": 439149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4485", "title": "Treating the marital crisis with the two-marriage equation.", "content": "The technique the authors call\"two-marriage therapy\" (conjoint cotherapy by a married cotherapy team) has been developed to help the couple in a marital crisis confront the elusive nature of marriage, a being with self-images and unconscious deceptions, different from, but not separate from, the images and unconscious deceptions of the separate spouses. The key to the two-marriage analysis os discovering the limitations of cooperative relationships based on roles and expectations and the exploration of a mode of concern we term \"coliberation\". This paper attempts to show how the presence of a married cotherapy team facilitates this process and adds a significant salutary perspective on the marriage in conflict.", "contents": "Treating the marital crisis with the two-marriage equation. The technique the authors call\"two-marriage therapy\" (conjoint cotherapy by a married cotherapy team) has been developed to help the couple in a marital crisis confront the elusive nature of marriage, a being with self-images and unconscious deceptions, different from, but not separate from, the images and unconscious deceptions of the separate spouses. The key to the two-marriage analysis os discovering the limitations of cooperative relationships based on roles and expectations and the exploration of a mode of concern we term \"coliberation\". This paper attempts to show how the presence of a married cotherapy team facilitates this process and adds a significant salutary perspective on the marriage in conflict.", "PMID": 439150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4486", "title": "The weekend workshop for dysfunctional couples: assets and limitations.", "content": "Two major new trends are emerging in the field of sexual counseling: the use of self-help programs and the increasing reliance on group therapy to overcome specific sexual complaints. The weekend sexual enhancement workshop represents a synthesis of both trends, but efficacy regarding outcome has not been well documented. In order to investigate specific changes in sexual and marital adjustment, two intensive weekend programs were conducted. Pre- and postmeasures were obtained for both groups. Based on the results of 15 couples who displayed a diversity of sexual dysfunctions, several conclusions can be drawn. The weekend workshop format appears effective in achieving three of its four major goals: (1) Couple communication improves via the stimulus of new information, group discussion, and permission to talk sexually. Marital satisfaction increases, particularly where the history of marital conflict is not chronic. (2) Attitude change occurs, and erroneous beliefs are relinquished in the face of new input. (3) The frequency of sexual interaction increases. (4) Long-standing sexual dysfunctions are not resolved as a result of group participation and information on self-help methods alone. Finally, the role of such weekend programs in sexual counseling in discussed.", "contents": "The weekend workshop for dysfunctional couples: assets and limitations. Two major new trends are emerging in the field of sexual counseling: the use of self-help programs and the increasing reliance on group therapy to overcome specific sexual complaints. The weekend sexual enhancement workshop represents a synthesis of both trends, but efficacy regarding outcome has not been well documented. In order to investigate specific changes in sexual and marital adjustment, two intensive weekend programs were conducted. Pre- and postmeasures were obtained for both groups. Based on the results of 15 couples who displayed a diversity of sexual dysfunctions, several conclusions can be drawn. The weekend workshop format appears effective in achieving three of its four major goals: (1) Couple communication improves via the stimulus of new information, group discussion, and permission to talk sexually. Marital satisfaction increases, particularly where the history of marital conflict is not chronic. (2) Attitude change occurs, and erroneous beliefs are relinquished in the face of new input. (3) The frequency of sexual interaction increases. (4) Long-standing sexual dysfunctions are not resolved as a result of group participation and information on self-help methods alone. Finally, the role of such weekend programs in sexual counseling in discussed.", "PMID": 439151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4487", "title": "Trace elements: an association with cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.", "content": "Abnormalities associated with trace elements have not received much attention from clinicians in the past; however, in the past few years there has been a veritable explosion of knowledge about trace elements which are associated with abnormalities in experimental animals as well as in humans. The information explosion is rapidly reaching the stage where clinicians will be called upon more frequently to diagnose and treat trace element-related maladies.This article introduces to the clinician some pertinent relationships between several of the more common trace elements and their suspected relationship with cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.", "contents": "Trace elements: an association with cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. Abnormalities associated with trace elements have not received much attention from clinicians in the past; however, in the past few years there has been a veritable explosion of knowledge about trace elements which are associated with abnormalities in experimental animals as well as in humans. The information explosion is rapidly reaching the stage where clinicians will be called upon more frequently to diagnose and treat trace element-related maladies.This article introduces to the clinician some pertinent relationships between several of the more common trace elements and their suspected relationship with cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.", "PMID": 439152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4488", "title": "Intramedullary tuberculoma of the spinal cord.", "content": "In the differential diagnosis of intramedullary masses or tumors of the spinal cord, tuberculoma is an often overlooked possibility. Although rare, this entity should be considered in the differential gamut of spinal cord lesions even in the presence of a normal chest x-ray.", "contents": "Intramedullary tuberculoma of the spinal cord. In the differential diagnosis of intramedullary masses or tumors of the spinal cord, tuberculoma is an often overlooked possibility. Although rare, this entity should be considered in the differential gamut of spinal cord lesions even in the presence of a normal chest x-ray.", "PMID": 439153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4489", "title": "Outer space medicine and relevant ongoing biomedical research.", "content": "An update of outer space medicine is given emphasizing main areas such as cardiopulmonary responses, vestibular functions, physiology, weightlessness, ecosystems, and radiation. A prospective view is also presented on the medical problems resulting from various hazards of outer space and planetary missions. Although an outgrowth of aviation and environmental medicine, this relatively new, special branch of medicine is currently undergoing an unprecedented rise as a vital modern specialty. The aims of the United States, Russia, and the nations of Europe in space research are shown to be in accord in learning how to live and work in space when confronted with the unique factors of zero gravity, cosmic radiation, and magnetic variations.", "contents": "Outer space medicine and relevant ongoing biomedical research. An update of outer space medicine is given emphasizing main areas such as cardiopulmonary responses, vestibular functions, physiology, weightlessness, ecosystems, and radiation. A prospective view is also presented on the medical problems resulting from various hazards of outer space and planetary missions. Although an outgrowth of aviation and environmental medicine, this relatively new, special branch of medicine is currently undergoing an unprecedented rise as a vital modern specialty. The aims of the United States, Russia, and the nations of Europe in space research are shown to be in accord in learning how to live and work in space when confronted with the unique factors of zero gravity, cosmic radiation, and magnetic variations.", "PMID": 439154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4490", "title": "Respiratory effects of a single, moderately acute, smoke inhalation episode.", "content": "Twenty-three hospital employees who suffered ill effects of smoke inhalation were pulmonary-function tested within 72 hours, after ten weeks, and again after 45 weeks of exposure. Four nonexposed control subjects were selected for comparison of data.Exposed persons commonly had restrictive lung disease which may have resulted from stimulation of irritant receptors in bronchi and/or interstitial edema of chemical injury at the level of the ventilation-perfusion unit. Airways obstruction was infrequent, despite the possibility of inhalation of di-isocyanates, an intermediary product of burning polyurethane foam that may cause chemical asthma. Eye and constitutional symptoms were also frequent.Clinical recovery was as a rule rapid and complete (within a week), but physiologic recovery was protracted (over 45 weeks in some cases). Most surprisingly, cigarette smoking and/or presence of cardiopulmonary disease did not contribute to morbidity.", "contents": "Respiratory effects of a single, moderately acute, smoke inhalation episode. Twenty-three hospital employees who suffered ill effects of smoke inhalation were pulmonary-function tested within 72 hours, after ten weeks, and again after 45 weeks of exposure. Four nonexposed control subjects were selected for comparison of data.Exposed persons commonly had restrictive lung disease which may have resulted from stimulation of irritant receptors in bronchi and/or interstitial edema of chemical injury at the level of the ventilation-perfusion unit. Airways obstruction was infrequent, despite the possibility of inhalation of di-isocyanates, an intermediary product of burning polyurethane foam that may cause chemical asthma. Eye and constitutional symptoms were also frequent.Clinical recovery was as a rule rapid and complete (within a week), but physiologic recovery was protracted (over 45 weeks in some cases). Most surprisingly, cigarette smoking and/or presence of cardiopulmonary disease did not contribute to morbidity.", "PMID": 439155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4491", "title": "Congenital stenosis of the cervical spine: diagnosis and management.", "content": "An analysis of 11 cases of congenital stenosis of the cervical spine seen over the past three years is reported. The authors' experiences at an urban community hospital, as well as a large Veterans Administration Hospital, lead them to conclude that this disorder is a neurologically significant anomaly which is probably more common than published reports would imply. It can be clinically and radiographically distinguished from \"pure\" cervical spondylosis, to which it is related, and its treatment should be appropriately modified. It appears to have a predilection for young adult black males, and cervical myelopathy is the predominant clinical feature. Varying degrees of trauma, a disease endemic to the inner city, plays a major role in precipitating the neurological catastrophes associated with this potentially correctable disorder. Proper management of this entity demands a heightened awareness of its existence as well as a high standard of neurological and roentgenographic diagnosis, and operative performance. A flexible operative strategy which takes into account the specific biomechanical factors involved in this disorder as well as the patient's individual physiological and social status is imperative. Surgery offers a good opportunity for improving neurological function.", "contents": "Congenital stenosis of the cervical spine: diagnosis and management. An analysis of 11 cases of congenital stenosis of the cervical spine seen over the past three years is reported. The authors' experiences at an urban community hospital, as well as a large Veterans Administration Hospital, lead them to conclude that this disorder is a neurologically significant anomaly which is probably more common than published reports would imply. It can be clinically and radiographically distinguished from \"pure\" cervical spondylosis, to which it is related, and its treatment should be appropriately modified. It appears to have a predilection for young adult black males, and cervical myelopathy is the predominant clinical feature. Varying degrees of trauma, a disease endemic to the inner city, plays a major role in precipitating the neurological catastrophes associated with this potentially correctable disorder. Proper management of this entity demands a heightened awareness of its existence as well as a high standard of neurological and roentgenographic diagnosis, and operative performance. A flexible operative strategy which takes into account the specific biomechanical factors involved in this disorder as well as the patient's individual physiological and social status is imperative. Surgery offers a good opportunity for improving neurological function.", "PMID": 439156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4492", "title": "Endurance, strength, and coordination exercises without cardiovascular or respiratory stress.", "content": "In an attempt to maintain physical health, the author studied various exercises and after six years of research has knowledge of a form of exercise which increases endurance, strength, and coordination without cardiovascular or respiratory strain. This paper introduces five exercises, outlines their physiology, and proposes some aspects of their mechanisms of action.", "contents": "Endurance, strength, and coordination exercises without cardiovascular or respiratory stress. In an attempt to maintain physical health, the author studied various exercises and after six years of research has knowledge of a form of exercise which increases endurance, strength, and coordination without cardiovascular or respiratory strain. This paper introduces five exercises, outlines their physiology, and proposes some aspects of their mechanisms of action.", "PMID": 439157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4493", "title": "Perforated duodenal ulcer in a tropical African population.", "content": "Duodenal ulcer is common in tropical African countries. In many cases, the patients are first seen as cases of gastric outlet obstruction because, in this environment, people present at the hospital in late stages of disease. Perforated duodenal ulcer in this environment, however, has received very little attention in the literature because previously it was rarely seen. It is not unlikely that some cases of severe gastric outlet obstruction from chronic duodenal ulcer are due to unrecognized perforated duodenal ulcers that have healed.Perforated duodenal ulcer is seen mainly in males, and many of these patients have never before been diagnosed as cases of peptic ulcer disease. The disease seems to be more common in people with blood groups O and AB. The majority of cases have a positive radiological examination.As the duration of presentation is relatively long, all patients in this series are treated with satisfactory results by simple closure and abdominal toileting.Gastric ulcer was not seen during this period of review.", "contents": "Perforated duodenal ulcer in a tropical African population. Duodenal ulcer is common in tropical African countries. In many cases, the patients are first seen as cases of gastric outlet obstruction because, in this environment, people present at the hospital in late stages of disease. Perforated duodenal ulcer in this environment, however, has received very little attention in the literature because previously it was rarely seen. It is not unlikely that some cases of severe gastric outlet obstruction from chronic duodenal ulcer are due to unrecognized perforated duodenal ulcers that have healed.Perforated duodenal ulcer is seen mainly in males, and many of these patients have never before been diagnosed as cases of peptic ulcer disease. The disease seems to be more common in people with blood groups O and AB. The majority of cases have a positive radiological examination.As the duration of presentation is relatively long, all patients in this series are treated with satisfactory results by simple closure and abdominal toileting.Gastric ulcer was not seen during this period of review.", "PMID": 439158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4494", "title": "Simplified double contrast examination of the esophagus.", "content": "A modification of the \"straw technic\" of Amplatz(1) (used in examination of the stomach and duodenum) is employed as an inexpensive, rapid, and simple method for double contrast examination of the duodenum.", "contents": "Simplified double contrast examination of the esophagus. A modification of the \"straw technic\" of Amplatz(1) (used in examination of the stomach and duodenum) is employed as an inexpensive, rapid, and simple method for double contrast examination of the duodenum.", "PMID": 439159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4495", "title": "Role of radiotherapy in management of cancer pain.", "content": "To a cancer patient, pain is a very distressing symptom and to the physician it heralds advanced nature of the disease. While the mechanisms of initiation of pain are simple, its perception is very complex. In cancer, the tumor growth which results in producing pressure, destruction of tissue, and obstruction is the main cause of pain production. Ionizing radiation, which checks tumor growth and shrinks the tumor most of the time, plays a major role in relieving pain in a cancer patient.", "contents": "Role of radiotherapy in management of cancer pain. To a cancer patient, pain is a very distressing symptom and to the physician it heralds advanced nature of the disease. While the mechanisms of initiation of pain are simple, its perception is very complex. In cancer, the tumor growth which results in producing pressure, destruction of tissue, and obstruction is the main cause of pain production. Ionizing radiation, which checks tumor growth and shrinks the tumor most of the time, plays a major role in relieving pain in a cancer patient.", "PMID": 439160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4496", "title": "High output cardiac failure secondary to a Brescia-Cimino fistula.", "content": "A patient with high output cardiac failure secondary to a Brescia-Cimino fistula is presented. The heart failure responded to a reduction in the fistula size. The literature on this complication is reviewed.", "contents": "High output cardiac failure secondary to a Brescia-Cimino fistula. A patient with high output cardiac failure secondary to a Brescia-Cimino fistula is presented. The heart failure responded to a reduction in the fistula size. The literature on this complication is reviewed.", "PMID": 439161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4497", "title": "Pelvic endometriosis as demonstrated by gray scale ultrasound.", "content": "Six cases of pelvic endometriosis are discussed and their ultrasonic appearances presented. The literature is reviewed concerning the ultrasonic appearance of pelvic endometriosis. The clinical significance of endometriosis in the differential diagnosis of females with pelvic pain is stressed. In this series endometriosis could not be differentiated from cystic lesions of the ovaries and from pelvic inflammatory disease ultrasonically. Other confirmatory measures or studies such as laparoscopy and biopsy were usually needed.", "contents": "Pelvic endometriosis as demonstrated by gray scale ultrasound. Six cases of pelvic endometriosis are discussed and their ultrasonic appearances presented. The literature is reviewed concerning the ultrasonic appearance of pelvic endometriosis. The clinical significance of endometriosis in the differential diagnosis of females with pelvic pain is stressed. In this series endometriosis could not be differentiated from cystic lesions of the ovaries and from pelvic inflammatory disease ultrasonically. Other confirmatory measures or studies such as laparoscopy and biopsy were usually needed.", "PMID": 439162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4498", "title": "Spousal abuse.", "content": "Spouse abuse is being discussed and agonized over more frequently than in past years. Although interpousal and intrafamilial violence have been behaviors of note and considerable consequence, they have been attributable, almost exclusively, to the lower socioeconomic classes. Many hypotheses have been proposed concerning the etiology of violence. The author discusses some of the more general sociopolitical theories of violence and proposes three areas of significant moment to behaviorists.", "contents": "Spousal abuse. Spouse abuse is being discussed and agonized over more frequently than in past years. Although interpousal and intrafamilial violence have been behaviors of note and considerable consequence, they have been attributable, almost exclusively, to the lower socioeconomic classes. Many hypotheses have been proposed concerning the etiology of violence. The author discusses some of the more general sociopolitical theories of violence and proposes three areas of significant moment to behaviorists.", "PMID": 439165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4499", "title": "Cancer incidence in the Western United States: ethnic differences.", "content": "Incidence rates of selected cancer sites reported by the California Tumor Registry and the New Mexico Tumor Registry are analyzed to study ethnic differences in cancer in the United States. The white majority population shows high incidence of lung and breast cancers. Black males show the highest prostatic cancer rate. Data also confirm the unusually high incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer and low prostatic cancer rates among Chinese males. The Japanese have the highest stomach cancer incidence among all the ethnic groups analyzed. A comparison with the cancer incidence in the same ethnic groups in their native countries reveals the impact of environmental or cultural changes on lung, breast, and stomach cancers, and a possible genetic influence on the high incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer among the Chinese population in the United States.", "contents": "Cancer incidence in the Western United States: ethnic differences. Incidence rates of selected cancer sites reported by the California Tumor Registry and the New Mexico Tumor Registry are analyzed to study ethnic differences in cancer in the United States. The white majority population shows high incidence of lung and breast cancers. Black males show the highest prostatic cancer rate. Data also confirm the unusually high incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer and low prostatic cancer rates among Chinese males. The Japanese have the highest stomach cancer incidence among all the ethnic groups analyzed. A comparison with the cancer incidence in the same ethnic groups in their native countries reveals the impact of environmental or cultural changes on lung, breast, and stomach cancers, and a possible genetic influence on the high incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer among the Chinese population in the United States.", "PMID": 439166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4500", "title": "Immunobiology of malaria.", "content": "Malaria, the number one disease in the world, is caused by intracellular protozoans belonging to the Subphylum, Sporozoa; Suborder, Haemosphoridia; and Family, Plasmodiidae. The four classical organisms producing disease in man are Plasmodium vivax, P. falciparum, P. malariae, and P. ovale. Although malaria has been known to man for centuries, attempts are still being made to control and eliminate its devastating effects in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Current active interest in malarial immunology and immunopathology derives from two main facts: (1) that human malaria is still one of the chief health problems in a broad tropical and subtropical zone in which lie most of the developing countries; and (2) most of the seminal leads in basic immunology are being applied to malarial immunology, either directly in human patients, or using laboratory animals as test objects.This paper addresses the nature of malarial immunity and target organs in malarial pathology.", "contents": "Immunobiology of malaria. Malaria, the number one disease in the world, is caused by intracellular protozoans belonging to the Subphylum, Sporozoa; Suborder, Haemosphoridia; and Family, Plasmodiidae. The four classical organisms producing disease in man are Plasmodium vivax, P. falciparum, P. malariae, and P. ovale. Although malaria has been known to man for centuries, attempts are still being made to control and eliminate its devastating effects in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Current active interest in malarial immunology and immunopathology derives from two main facts: (1) that human malaria is still one of the chief health problems in a broad tropical and subtropical zone in which lie most of the developing countries; and (2) most of the seminal leads in basic immunology are being applied to malarial immunology, either directly in human patients, or using laboratory animals as test objects.This paper addresses the nature of malarial immunity and target organs in malarial pathology.", "PMID": 439167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4501", "title": "Malignant melanoma of the foot in black patients: a case report and literature survey.", "content": "Malignant melanoma in black patients is not the rare entity previously supposed if the numerous reported accounts are considered. In black patients, the tumor appears most commonly in the pedal region. The plantar surface appears to be most frequently involved. The literature on melanoma in blacks provides confusing statistics. Malignant melanoma in blacks represents a small, well-delineated subset of melanomas possibly with its own incidence and prognosis. A case report is presented, with a search of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center Tumor Registry and a review of pertinent current dermatological literature.", "contents": "Malignant melanoma of the foot in black patients: a case report and literature survey. Malignant melanoma in black patients is not the rare entity previously supposed if the numerous reported accounts are considered. In black patients, the tumor appears most commonly in the pedal region. The plantar surface appears to be most frequently involved. The literature on melanoma in blacks provides confusing statistics. Malignant melanoma in blacks represents a small, well-delineated subset of melanomas possibly with its own incidence and prognosis. A case report is presented, with a search of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center Tumor Registry and a review of pertinent current dermatological literature.", "PMID": 439168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4502", "title": "The right to health care: a brief review.", "content": "The organization and delivery of health care in the United States is undergoing critical review. In recent years, the costs of medical services have skyrocketed to such an extent that many Americans have exhausted their scanty life savings for hospitalizations or other related medical expenditures. As a result, health care consumers have become disenchanted and are now demanding a change in the medical care system.In addition, there appears to be a conceptual change from good health being considered an individual responsibility, to one of social concern. Have we gained from Sweden's experience in health care or is this a moral issue?It is well known that health care system in the United States is in need of fundamental change, but we also know that change of this magnitude is usually quite slow and painful. One seriously ponders whether public dissatisfaction will surface to those heights which led to the massive revolt of the Great Depression. This is a moot question.", "contents": "The right to health care: a brief review. The organization and delivery of health care in the United States is undergoing critical review. In recent years, the costs of medical services have skyrocketed to such an extent that many Americans have exhausted their scanty life savings for hospitalizations or other related medical expenditures. As a result, health care consumers have become disenchanted and are now demanding a change in the medical care system.In addition, there appears to be a conceptual change from good health being considered an individual responsibility, to one of social concern. Have we gained from Sweden's experience in health care or is this a moral issue?It is well known that health care system in the United States is in need of fundamental change, but we also know that change of this magnitude is usually quite slow and painful. One seriously ponders whether public dissatisfaction will surface to those heights which led to the massive revolt of the Great Depression. This is a moot question.", "PMID": 439169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4503", "title": "The need for psychoanalysis is alive and well in community psychiatry.", "content": "While the author recognizes the positive impact community psychiatry has had on postpsychotic patients by the uses of medical management and environmental manipulation, he demonstrates that there is a deficiency in the treatment of lower socioeconomic patients with neurotic illnesses. Specifically, neurotic patients tend to be given supportive therapy and psychopharmacotherapy when a form of psychoanalytic psychotherapy would be more appropriate. The author supports these contentions by presenting three cases which have a diagnosis of hysterical neurosis and which clearly demonstrate the economic, topographical, structural, dynamic, and genetic components of the psychoanalytic theory. Finally, as psychoanalytic psychotherapy is too time-consuming, the author suggests that Freud's early psychoanalytic technique of symptom removal by memory recovery be used when appropriate.", "contents": "The need for psychoanalysis is alive and well in community psychiatry. While the author recognizes the positive impact community psychiatry has had on postpsychotic patients by the uses of medical management and environmental manipulation, he demonstrates that there is a deficiency in the treatment of lower socioeconomic patients with neurotic illnesses. Specifically, neurotic patients tend to be given supportive therapy and psychopharmacotherapy when a form of psychoanalytic psychotherapy would be more appropriate. The author supports these contentions by presenting three cases which have a diagnosis of hysterical neurosis and which clearly demonstrate the economic, topographical, structural, dynamic, and genetic components of the psychoanalytic theory. Finally, as psychoanalytic psychotherapy is too time-consuming, the author suggests that Freud's early psychoanalytic technique of symptom removal by memory recovery be used when appropriate.", "PMID": 439170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4504", "title": "Economic stress and mental health.", "content": "This paper correlates economic stress with minority status, resource allocations for mental health programs, and vulnerability to mental disability. Several hypotheses are advanced:1. A major and recurring psychological pattern of the American national character is prowhite, antiblack paranoia.2. Mental health fiscal allocations and programmatic determinations in ghetto, lower socioeconomic, minority-populated urban areas are predicated on political and racist considerations, the underlying motivation being to keep minorities at greater risk of mental disability.3. Economic privation and stress increase vulnerability to mental illness, especially in a minority population for whom health, mental health, educational, and social services are grossly inadequate.4. Poverty and economic stress combine with health systems that are unresponsive to the needs of blacks and other minorities, resulting in the perpetuation of disabilities and other conditions in blacks that are potentially preventable.5. Health and mental health resources should be increased rather than diminished during periods of economic stress, especially in the public sector.6. In order to provide each citizen with access to quality health and mental health care regardless of race and/or economic status, there must be enacted a national health insurance program based on tax-levy monies that will cover all aspects of health and mental health care.7. Racism and social status will continue to be powerful determinants of the quality of service that white professionals render to black patients and to poor white patients, unless our training institutions mount a massive campaign to train appropriately and to include significant numbers of minority candidates and trainees in the effort. To date this effort is virtually nonexistent.", "contents": "Economic stress and mental health. This paper correlates economic stress with minority status, resource allocations for mental health programs, and vulnerability to mental disability. Several hypotheses are advanced:1. A major and recurring psychological pattern of the American national character is prowhite, antiblack paranoia.2. Mental health fiscal allocations and programmatic determinations in ghetto, lower socioeconomic, minority-populated urban areas are predicated on political and racist considerations, the underlying motivation being to keep minorities at greater risk of mental disability.3. Economic privation and stress increase vulnerability to mental illness, especially in a minority population for whom health, mental health, educational, and social services are grossly inadequate.4. Poverty and economic stress combine with health systems that are unresponsive to the needs of blacks and other minorities, resulting in the perpetuation of disabilities and other conditions in blacks that are potentially preventable.5. Health and mental health resources should be increased rather than diminished during periods of economic stress, especially in the public sector.6. In order to provide each citizen with access to quality health and mental health care regardless of race and/or economic status, there must be enacted a national health insurance program based on tax-levy monies that will cover all aspects of health and mental health care.7. Racism and social status will continue to be powerful determinants of the quality of service that white professionals render to black patients and to poor white patients, unless our training institutions mount a massive campaign to train appropriately and to include significant numbers of minority candidates and trainees in the effort. To date this effort is virtually nonexistent.", "PMID": 439171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4505", "title": "Diagnostic value of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes in the absence of elevated total CPK.", "content": "The value of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes, in the presence of normal total CPK, for assessing myocardial infarction is discussed. Forty-six patients in a coronary care unit were studied to ascertain the clinical usefulness of CPK isoenzymes for diagnosing myocardial infarction when the levels of total CPK were within normal range. The majority of patients studied had some cardiac abnormality on either ECG or x-ray examination. Approximately 50 percent of patients had chest pain, but only five of the 46 had a detectable CPK isoenzyme level on CPK electrophoresis. The results of this study suggest that CPK isoenzymes do not add anything of diagnostic value to the clinical picture if the total CPK is normal.", "contents": "Diagnostic value of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes in the absence of elevated total CPK. The value of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes, in the presence of normal total CPK, for assessing myocardial infarction is discussed. Forty-six patients in a coronary care unit were studied to ascertain the clinical usefulness of CPK isoenzymes for diagnosing myocardial infarction when the levels of total CPK were within normal range. The majority of patients studied had some cardiac abnormality on either ECG or x-ray examination. Approximately 50 percent of patients had chest pain, but only five of the 46 had a detectable CPK isoenzyme level on CPK electrophoresis. The results of this study suggest that CPK isoenzymes do not add anything of diagnostic value to the clinical picture if the total CPK is normal.", "PMID": 439172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4506", "title": "Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus in Nigerians.", "content": "Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus has been considered very rare in the native African population. Only seven cases, all among the Bantu, have been described to date. Five cases are now reported and these cases are believed to be the first from West Africa.", "contents": "Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus in Nigerians. Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus has been considered very rare in the native African population. Only seven cases, all among the Bantu, have been described to date. Five cases are now reported and these cases are believed to be the first from West Africa.", "PMID": 439173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4507", "title": "Basal cell carcinoma of the ridge of the nose treated with Cobalt-60.", "content": "A case is reported of an elderly woman treated for a basal cell carcinoma, located on the ridge of the nose. The malignancy had invaded the outer surface of the bone and nearby cartilage. It is well known that when carcinoma of the skin is located near to bony cartilage structures, those structures are prone to necrosis when treated with ionizing radiation. In this case, the authors treated the nose using telecobalt therapy and increased the effect of radiation therapy on the skin using a bolus. Results during the short follow-up after completion of treatment have been excellent.", "contents": "Basal cell carcinoma of the ridge of the nose treated with Cobalt-60. A case is reported of an elderly woman treated for a basal cell carcinoma, located on the ridge of the nose. The malignancy had invaded the outer surface of the bone and nearby cartilage. It is well known that when carcinoma of the skin is located near to bony cartilage structures, those structures are prone to necrosis when treated with ionizing radiation. In this case, the authors treated the nose using telecobalt therapy and increased the effect of radiation therapy on the skin using a bolus. Results during the short follow-up after completion of treatment have been excellent.", "PMID": 439174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4508", "title": "Cultural consciousness and minority representation in health professions.", "content": "It appears the problems inherent in the underrepresentation of minorities in the health professions, especially medicine, are likely to continue, at least in the near future. This being the case, it becomes important to maximize the effectiveness of those minorities already in the system.This paper describes a study conducted to verify certain assumptions which underlie programs aimed at increasing minority student enrollment in medical schools. It is assumed minority students are aware of the health problems unique to minority populations, that they plan to do something to address these problems, and that they will have some effect on the problem and the health of minority populations.", "contents": "Cultural consciousness and minority representation in health professions. It appears the problems inherent in the underrepresentation of minorities in the health professions, especially medicine, are likely to continue, at least in the near future. This being the case, it becomes important to maximize the effectiveness of those minorities already in the system.This paper describes a study conducted to verify certain assumptions which underlie programs aimed at increasing minority student enrollment in medical schools. It is assumed minority students are aware of the health problems unique to minority populations, that they plan to do something to address these problems, and that they will have some effect on the problem and the health of minority populations.", "PMID": 439175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4509", "title": "Deinstitutionalization.", "content": "This paper treats the issue of the treatment of the chronically mentally disabled. The author challenges the feasibility of plans for the treatment of the chronically disabled outside of mental institutions and questions whether in actuality there has been a sufficient commitment (moral, professional, and financial) to the local noninstitutional care of this population. The history of treatment of the mentally disabled over the past three centuries is reviewed. The failure of the community mental health center movement during the 1960s is described, and the reasons for that failure are presented. A note of extreme caution is sounded as behavioral scientists and mental health planners devise methods of caring for the chronic population, lest courses be embarked upon that have been given inadequate consideration and planning.", "contents": "Deinstitutionalization. This paper treats the issue of the treatment of the chronically mentally disabled. The author challenges the feasibility of plans for the treatment of the chronically disabled outside of mental institutions and questions whether in actuality there has been a sufficient commitment (moral, professional, and financial) to the local noninstitutional care of this population. The history of treatment of the mentally disabled over the past three centuries is reviewed. The failure of the community mental health center movement during the 1960s is described, and the reasons for that failure are presented. A note of extreme caution is sounded as behavioral scientists and mental health planners devise methods of caring for the chronic population, lest courses be embarked upon that have been given inadequate consideration and planning.", "PMID": 439176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4510", "title": "Long-term results of resection of the distal ulna for post-traumatic conditions.", "content": "Sixty-two patients underwent resection of the distal ulna because of pain or limited motion after wrist trauma. The median length of resection was 23 mm. Injury to the distal radioulnar joint occurred primarily during fractures of the distal radius. Followup time averaged 87 months. The primary surgical indication was pain, but some procedures were performed in an effort to increase motion. All patients improved after surgery. Three patients had residual pain, 25 had mild pain, and 34 had no pain. Supination was greatly improved, with only modest improvement in other wrist motions. Four patients developed ulnar translation of the carpus (from 1 to 3 mm). Pseudoarticulation and ulnar regrowth of the carpus were noted, but neither pseudoarticulation nor regrowth was clinically symptomatic. Grip strength improved significantly after surgery, the average from 45.3 to 78.9% of the unaffected wrist. The presence or absence of radiocarpal arthritis preoperatively had no significant effect on the patients' estimates of results. Overall, 51 patients (82%) had satisfactory results. The primary gains were pain relief, increased supination, and increased strength.", "contents": "Long-term results of resection of the distal ulna for post-traumatic conditions. Sixty-two patients underwent resection of the distal ulna because of pain or limited motion after wrist trauma. The median length of resection was 23 mm. Injury to the distal radioulnar joint occurred primarily during fractures of the distal radius. Followup time averaged 87 months. The primary surgical indication was pain, but some procedures were performed in an effort to increase motion. All patients improved after surgery. Three patients had residual pain, 25 had mild pain, and 34 had no pain. Supination was greatly improved, with only modest improvement in other wrist motions. Four patients developed ulnar translation of the carpus (from 1 to 3 mm). Pseudoarticulation and ulnar regrowth of the carpus were noted, but neither pseudoarticulation nor regrowth was clinically symptomatic. Grip strength improved significantly after surgery, the average from 45.3 to 78.9% of the unaffected wrist. The presence or absence of radiocarpal arthritis preoperatively had no significant effect on the patients' estimates of results. Overall, 51 patients (82%) had satisfactory results. The primary gains were pain relief, increased supination, and increased strength.", "PMID": 439177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4511", "title": "The effect of thermal injury on hemodynamic, respiratory, and hematologic variables in relation to complement activation.", "content": "The effects of thermal injury on circulation, respiration, and complement activity was studied in dogs. An aggregation of platelets in the blood and trapping in the lung were observed following burn injury. Leukopenia appeared first, then leukocytosis. Hemolysis of red cells corresponding to a destruction of about 30% of the erythrocytes was observed. A blood pressure decrease and a tracheal insufflation pressure increase followed thermal injury. Blood gas and lactate changes like those seen during a low perfusion state were recorded, but signs of impaired oxygenation of arterial blood were also observed. A possible mechanism by which denatured proteins might initiate some of the symptoms seen after thermal injury is suggested and its relation to complement activation is evaluated.", "contents": "The effect of thermal injury on hemodynamic, respiratory, and hematologic variables in relation to complement activation. The effects of thermal injury on circulation, respiration, and complement activity was studied in dogs. An aggregation of platelets in the blood and trapping in the lung were observed following burn injury. Leukopenia appeared first, then leukocytosis. Hemolysis of red cells corresponding to a destruction of about 30% of the erythrocytes was observed. A blood pressure decrease and a tracheal insufflation pressure increase followed thermal injury. Blood gas and lactate changes like those seen during a low perfusion state were recorded, but signs of impaired oxygenation of arterial blood were also observed. A possible mechanism by which denatured proteins might initiate some of the symptoms seen after thermal injury is suggested and its relation to complement activation is evaluated.", "PMID": 439178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4512", "title": "Arterial plasma amino acids during the first week following femoral shaft fracture.", "content": "In ten patients with a femoral shaft fracture, arterial plasma amino acids and glucagon, blood glucose, and serum insulin were measured after an overnight fast on the third, fifth, and seventh days following injury. Ten normal subjects were controls. On all days, concentrations of the key glucogenic amino acid, alanine, were the same in both groups, but levels of another glucogenic amino acid, glycine, were significantly less in the fracture patients. Other amino acid changes following injury were maximal at 7 days, with significant elevations of phenylalanine, methionine, tyrosine, ornithine, lysine, arginine, valine, isoleucine, and leucine. Increased levels of insulin, glucose, valine, isoleucine, and leucine on the fifth and seventh days after injury implied insulin resistance. Plasma glucagon was elevated on the third (p less than 0.05) and seventh (p less than 0.01) days after injury, but the concentrations measured are insufficient to explain the impaired carbohydrate tolerance following a fracture.", "contents": "Arterial plasma amino acids during the first week following femoral shaft fracture. In ten patients with a femoral shaft fracture, arterial plasma amino acids and glucagon, blood glucose, and serum insulin were measured after an overnight fast on the third, fifth, and seventh days following injury. Ten normal subjects were controls. On all days, concentrations of the key glucogenic amino acid, alanine, were the same in both groups, but levels of another glucogenic amino acid, glycine, were significantly less in the fracture patients. Other amino acid changes following injury were maximal at 7 days, with significant elevations of phenylalanine, methionine, tyrosine, ornithine, lysine, arginine, valine, isoleucine, and leucine. Increased levels of insulin, glucose, valine, isoleucine, and leucine on the fifth and seventh days after injury implied insulin resistance. Plasma glucagon was elevated on the third (p less than 0.05) and seventh (p less than 0.01) days after injury, but the concentrations measured are insufficient to explain the impaired carbohydrate tolerance following a fracture.", "PMID": 439179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4513", "title": "Chronic traumatic aneurysms of the thoracic aorta: an analysis of 50 patients.", "content": "The records of 50 patients having thoracic aortic aneurysms and a remote history of severe chest trauma were reviewed. Time intervals between thoracic trauma and operation varied from 3 months to 32 years (average, 11.9 years). In 25 patients (50%) this interval was greater than 10 years and in six (12%) greater than 20 years. Surgical correction was accomplished with low mortality and morbidity. Detection and diagnosis of chronic traumatic thoracic aortic injuries may not become clinically evident in some cases for many years. This diagnosis should be considered in all patients with a history of severe thoracic trauma, no matter how remote.", "contents": "Chronic traumatic aneurysms of the thoracic aorta: an analysis of 50 patients. The records of 50 patients having thoracic aortic aneurysms and a remote history of severe chest trauma were reviewed. Time intervals between thoracic trauma and operation varied from 3 months to 32 years (average, 11.9 years). In 25 patients (50%) this interval was greater than 10 years and in six (12%) greater than 20 years. Surgical correction was accomplished with low mortality and morbidity. Detection and diagnosis of chronic traumatic thoracic aortic injuries may not become clinically evident in some cases for many years. This diagnosis should be considered in all patients with a history of severe thoracic trauma, no matter how remote.", "PMID": 439180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4514", "title": "Operative treatment of pertrochanteric fractures of the femur: report of a three-year series.", "content": "A series of 70 consecutive patients with pertrochanteric fractures of the femur treated by condylo-trochanteric (C-T) nailing is reported. Patients' ages ranged from 54 to 96 years, and they were followed up for 4 to 32 months. The mortality rate was 1.4%, and the overall complication rate among survivors 20.3%, but all complications were minor and transient. The fracture healed in every case, and the functional and anatomic results were good. The results are thought to be due to the superiority of indirect methods of fixation, which are in general technically easy and involve no major surgical intervention. This fact is highly favorable in this group of elderly and frail patients, among whom a major osteosynthesis would certainly carry a risk of high operative mortality.", "contents": "Operative treatment of pertrochanteric fractures of the femur: report of a three-year series. A series of 70 consecutive patients with pertrochanteric fractures of the femur treated by condylo-trochanteric (C-T) nailing is reported. Patients' ages ranged from 54 to 96 years, and they were followed up for 4 to 32 months. The mortality rate was 1.4%, and the overall complication rate among survivors 20.3%, but all complications were minor and transient. The fracture healed in every case, and the functional and anatomic results were good. The results are thought to be due to the superiority of indirect methods of fixation, which are in general technically easy and involve no major surgical intervention. This fact is highly favorable in this group of elderly and frail patients, among whom a major osteosynthesis would certainly carry a risk of high operative mortality.", "PMID": 439181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4515", "title": "Neurogenic gastroduodenal ulceration and bleeding associated with spinal cord injuries.", "content": "Twenty-four of 576 consecutive patients with spinal cord injuries developed acute gastroduodenal ulceration and hemorrhage. Twenty-two were males and two were females: 88% were 12 to 25 years old. Seventeen patients sustained injuries to the spinal cord in sports and recreation related activities. Twenty-three patients had lesions of the spinal cord above the sympathetic outflow. Twenty patients developed gastroduodenal perforation or bleeding within 4 weeks following the injury. Ten patients developed perforation of gastric or duodenal ulcer and \"shoulder tip\" pain was a symptom of perforation in six patients. Six patients of seven who had gastroscopy and upper GI series were found at laparotomy to have ulcers. Gastric (nine) and duodenal (seven) ulcers were evenly distributed. There were no deaths due to gastroduodenal hemorrhage in the present series. A single cause for the pathogenesis of gastroduodenal ulceration and hemorrhage cannot be pinpointed. However, ischemia of gastric mucosa produced in various ways and altered equilibrium between the parasympathetic and sympathetic neural pathways following trauma to the spinal cord seem to be important in initiating the process.", "contents": "Neurogenic gastroduodenal ulceration and bleeding associated with spinal cord injuries. Twenty-four of 576 consecutive patients with spinal cord injuries developed acute gastroduodenal ulceration and hemorrhage. Twenty-two were males and two were females: 88% were 12 to 25 years old. Seventeen patients sustained injuries to the spinal cord in sports and recreation related activities. Twenty-three patients had lesions of the spinal cord above the sympathetic outflow. Twenty patients developed gastroduodenal perforation or bleeding within 4 weeks following the injury. Ten patients developed perforation of gastric or duodenal ulcer and \"shoulder tip\" pain was a symptom of perforation in six patients. Six patients of seven who had gastroscopy and upper GI series were found at laparotomy to have ulcers. Gastric (nine) and duodenal (seven) ulcers were evenly distributed. There were no deaths due to gastroduodenal hemorrhage in the present series. A single cause for the pathogenesis of gastroduodenal ulceration and hemorrhage cannot be pinpointed. However, ischemia of gastric mucosa produced in various ways and altered equilibrium between the parasympathetic and sympathetic neural pathways following trauma to the spinal cord seem to be important in initiating the process.", "PMID": 439182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4516", "title": "Traumatic renal artery occlusion.", "content": "Six cases of complete occlusion of the main renal artery and one case of incomplete renal artery occlusion secondary to blunt abdominal trauma are reported, and the literature reviewed. The reported cases are analyzed as to clinical and radiographic findings, and mechanism of injury. Left renal artery occlusion occurs due to intimal fracture secondary to deceleration forces on the abdomen. Right renal artery occlusion results from direct epigastric trauma and compression of the artery against the vertebral column. An intravenous urogram with nonvisualization of the affected kidney should lead to immediate angiography. Arteriography is diagnostic, showing abrupt occlusion of the renal artery several centimeters beyond its origin, or before occlusion, an intimal flap.", "contents": "Traumatic renal artery occlusion. Six cases of complete occlusion of the main renal artery and one case of incomplete renal artery occlusion secondary to blunt abdominal trauma are reported, and the literature reviewed. The reported cases are analyzed as to clinical and radiographic findings, and mechanism of injury. Left renal artery occlusion occurs due to intimal fracture secondary to deceleration forces on the abdomen. Right renal artery occlusion results from direct epigastric trauma and compression of the artery against the vertebral column. An intravenous urogram with nonvisualization of the affected kidney should lead to immediate angiography. Arteriography is diagnostic, showing abrupt occlusion of the renal artery several centimeters beyond its origin, or before occlusion, an intimal flap.", "PMID": 439183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4517", "title": "Unsuspected atlas fracture and instability associated with oropharyngeal injury: case report.", "content": "A case of oropharyngeal injury associated with an unsuspected direct atlas anterior arch fracture is presented. Instability at the occipito-atlanto-axial joints developed because of the coexistence of a rather common congenital defect of the posterior atlas arch. Awareness of the frequency of congenital atlas anomalies and the possibility of direct cervical spine injury with pharyngeal trauma will aid early recognition of this problem and allow early effective treatment.", "contents": "Unsuspected atlas fracture and instability associated with oropharyngeal injury: case report. A case of oropharyngeal injury associated with an unsuspected direct atlas anterior arch fracture is presented. Instability at the occipito-atlanto-axial joints developed because of the coexistence of a rather common congenital defect of the posterior atlas arch. Awareness of the frequency of congenital atlas anomalies and the possibility of direct cervical spine injury with pharyngeal trauma will aid early recognition of this problem and allow early effective treatment.", "PMID": 439184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4518", "title": "Undiagnosed intrusion of a lateral incisor following trauma.", "content": "The need to account for teeth missing after a traumatic episode, and the need for radiologic methods of investigation of the oral, perioral, and respiratory areas into which teeth may lodge are discussed. A patient with undiagnosed traumatic intrusion of a lateral incisor is presented in whose case routine radiographic investigation before restorative treatment planning revealed the tooth in the maxilla. If such teeth are not removed, respiratory distress or abscess, or delayed healing may complicate recovery.", "contents": "Undiagnosed intrusion of a lateral incisor following trauma. The need to account for teeth missing after a traumatic episode, and the need for radiologic methods of investigation of the oral, perioral, and respiratory areas into which teeth may lodge are discussed. A patient with undiagnosed traumatic intrusion of a lateral incisor is presented in whose case routine radiographic investigation before restorative treatment planning revealed the tooth in the maxilla. If such teeth are not removed, respiratory distress or abscess, or delayed healing may complicate recovery.", "PMID": 439185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4519", "title": "Traumatic ulnar neuropathy from jet injection: case report.", "content": "The usefulness and relative safety of the technique of jet injection, mainly used in mass immunization, have been well established. A patient who developed a traumatic ulnar neuroma at the site of jet injection of swine flu vaccine is reported. This unusual and previously unreported complication of this procedure is thought to have occurred because of the patient's extremely small size and small muscles.", "contents": "Traumatic ulnar neuropathy from jet injection: case report. The usefulness and relative safety of the technique of jet injection, mainly used in mass immunization, have been well established. A patient who developed a traumatic ulnar neuroma at the site of jet injection of swine flu vaccine is reported. This unusual and previously unreported complication of this procedure is thought to have occurred because of the patient's extremely small size and small muscles.", "PMID": 439186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4520", "title": "Traumatic forequarter amputation: case report.", "content": "Traumatic forequarter amputation is rare and extremely mutilating. A 21-year-old male factory worker who sustained a traumatic shoulder girdle amputation is described. The injury mechanism was traction from the machine's force combined with the compressive force on the sternoclavicular joint. The factors leading to survival from this injury include rapid transportation, prompt and effective resuscitation, including treatment of shock, and adequate surgical management. Recognition of the complications associated with retrosternoclavicular dislocation is emphasized.", "contents": "Traumatic forequarter amputation: case report. Traumatic forequarter amputation is rare and extremely mutilating. A 21-year-old male factory worker who sustained a traumatic shoulder girdle amputation is described. The injury mechanism was traction from the machine's force combined with the compressive force on the sternoclavicular joint. The factors leading to survival from this injury include rapid transportation, prompt and effective resuscitation, including treatment of shock, and adequate surgical management. Recognition of the complications associated with retrosternoclavicular dislocation is emphasized.", "PMID": 439187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4521", "title": "Acute esophageal perforation in an adolescent burn patient.", "content": "Acute esophageal perforation in a 15-year-old male who sustained 40% body burns in a gasoline explosion is reported. He experienced an acute esophageal perforation from gastric distention and esophageal reflux during initial transit to the Cincinnati Shriners Burns Institute on the second postburn day. Bilateral hydropneumothorax occurred and the patient soon expired without treatment. Prevention of this complication is best achieved by placement of a nasogastric tube and aggressive antacid therapy.", "contents": "Acute esophageal perforation in an adolescent burn patient. Acute esophageal perforation in a 15-year-old male who sustained 40% body burns in a gasoline explosion is reported. He experienced an acute esophageal perforation from gastric distention and esophageal reflux during initial transit to the Cincinnati Shriners Burns Institute on the second postburn day. Bilateral hydropneumothorax occurred and the patient soon expired without treatment. Prevention of this complication is best achieved by placement of a nasogastric tube and aggressive antacid therapy.", "PMID": 439188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4522", "title": "Posterior fracture-dislocation of the IV metacarpal hamate articulation: case report.", "content": "Posterior fracture-dislocation of the metacarpal hamate articulation is rare. A single case managed with splint immobilization and early finger motion is reported. The early functional results utilizing this method are excellent.", "contents": "Posterior fracture-dislocation of the IV metacarpal hamate articulation: case report. Posterior fracture-dislocation of the metacarpal hamate articulation is rare. A single case managed with splint immobilization and early finger motion is reported. The early functional results utilizing this method are excellent.", "PMID": 439189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4523", "title": "[Etiopathogenesis of so-called congenital hydronephrosis].", "content": "Taking up again inquiries already known in the past, documents of pathological anatomy of his own person experience, and facts of embryology, the authors explain the etiology of the obstructive malformation of pyelo-ureteral function the etiology brings out two phenomena: --The insufficient hollowing of the cephalic end of the ureteral bud, which is initially grooved, when it detaches itself from the Wolffian canal, can transform itself into a full cellular cord which secondarily forms a groove after 23 mm stage.--The insufficient vascularization of the ureter just below the pelvis because of an abnormal anatomical disposition which causes displacement of the longitudinal uretero-pelvic arteries to a point clearly below the ureteropelvic junction. There an ischemia impedes the muscular development of the ureter just below the pelvic of which the wall becomes more sclerotic and fibrous than muscular. Thus a defect in the grooving of the ureteral bud and an arterial blood deficit results in a congenital ureteral stenosis. Pathological anatomical documents illustrate this theory from which flow two imperative technics; the necessity to eliminate the initial obstructive ureteral segment; care to protect the pelvic vessels which will have to vascularize the ureter which will be anastomosed to the cut edge of the pelvis.", "contents": "[Etiopathogenesis of so-called congenital hydronephrosis]. Taking up again inquiries already known in the past, documents of pathological anatomy of his own person experience, and facts of embryology, the authors explain the etiology of the obstructive malformation of pyelo-ureteral function the etiology brings out two phenomena: --The insufficient hollowing of the cephalic end of the ureteral bud, which is initially grooved, when it detaches itself from the Wolffian canal, can transform itself into a full cellular cord which secondarily forms a groove after 23 mm stage.--The insufficient vascularization of the ureter just below the pelvis because of an abnormal anatomical disposition which causes displacement of the longitudinal uretero-pelvic arteries to a point clearly below the ureteropelvic junction. There an ischemia impedes the muscular development of the ureter just below the pelvic of which the wall becomes more sclerotic and fibrous than muscular. Thus a defect in the grooving of the ureteral bud and an arterial blood deficit results in a congenital ureteral stenosis. Pathological anatomical documents illustrate this theory from which flow two imperative technics; the necessity to eliminate the initial obstructive ureteral segment; care to protect the pelvic vessels which will have to vascularize the ureter which will be anastomosed to the cut edge of the pelvis.", "PMID": 439196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4524", "title": "[What is the value of segmental urethrectomy for urethral stenosis in males?].", "content": "The authors analyze the results obtained in a homogenous series of 49 patients with urethral stenosis treated by segmental resection of the urethra and end-to-end urethro-urethral suture, with the following conclusions:--Segmental urethrectomy is indicated only for short lengths of stenosis, which do not require the sacrifice of more than 4 cm.--Excellent results were obtained in 41 out of 49 cases (84%).--Good results remain stable, as they were still present in 33 of these 41 successful cases after periods varying from 14 months to 7 years (average: 3 years and 2 months).--Good results have a good chance of remaining as out of the 8 failures only 2 were due to secondary deterioration after a satisfactory initial result. Traumatic and congenital stenoses give the best results as suture of the two healthy sections of the urethra can be performed. Nine successful results were obtained in 10 cases of iatrogenic stenosis after in-dwelling urethral sounds or endoscopic procedures. Twelve cases were successful out of 16 traumatic stenoses of the membranous urethra following pelvic fractures. Two cases of traumatic stenosis of the perineal urethra were both treated with success, as were fourteen out of 15 so-called \"congenital\" urethral stenoses in which there was no history of trauma or infection. As far as the procedure used is concerned, a successful outcome depends upon the degree of mobilization of the urethral ends, which should be large in order to be able to suture without tension.--The factors causing failure include: absence of excision of post-traumatic callus, insufficient hemostasis, insufficiently prolonged modelling of the suture, favourable for the formation of synechia and, more particularly, a poor condition of the urethra: sclerosed inflammatory stenoses and untreated associated prostatitis.--Sexual impotence is found, temporarily, in all patients operated upon for urethral stenosis, but virility returns in all cases within variable periods of up to two years.", "contents": "[What is the value of segmental urethrectomy for urethral stenosis in males?]. The authors analyze the results obtained in a homogenous series of 49 patients with urethral stenosis treated by segmental resection of the urethra and end-to-end urethro-urethral suture, with the following conclusions:--Segmental urethrectomy is indicated only for short lengths of stenosis, which do not require the sacrifice of more than 4 cm.--Excellent results were obtained in 41 out of 49 cases (84%).--Good results remain stable, as they were still present in 33 of these 41 successful cases after periods varying from 14 months to 7 years (average: 3 years and 2 months).--Good results have a good chance of remaining as out of the 8 failures only 2 were due to secondary deterioration after a satisfactory initial result. Traumatic and congenital stenoses give the best results as suture of the two healthy sections of the urethra can be performed. Nine successful results were obtained in 10 cases of iatrogenic stenosis after in-dwelling urethral sounds or endoscopic procedures. Twelve cases were successful out of 16 traumatic stenoses of the membranous urethra following pelvic fractures. Two cases of traumatic stenosis of the perineal urethra were both treated with success, as were fourteen out of 15 so-called \"congenital\" urethral stenoses in which there was no history of trauma or infection. As far as the procedure used is concerned, a successful outcome depends upon the degree of mobilization of the urethral ends, which should be large in order to be able to suture without tension.--The factors causing failure include: absence of excision of post-traumatic callus, insufficient hemostasis, insufficiently prolonged modelling of the suture, favourable for the formation of synechia and, more particularly, a poor condition of the urethra: sclerosed inflammatory stenoses and untreated associated prostatitis.--Sexual impotence is found, temporarily, in all patients operated upon for urethral stenosis, but virility returns in all cases within variable periods of up to two years.", "PMID": 439197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4525", "title": "[Problems of cystic uretero-pyelitis (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report on a series of 7 new cases of cystic uretero-pyelitis (C.U.P.). An historical and pathogenic review of this anatamo-radiologic entity is presented. The conditions for discovery were: renal colic in 4 instances, discovery during surgery in association with a pyeo-ureteral junction syndrome in one instance, and a hematuria in three instances (1 being accompanied by renal colic). Age varied from 22 to 78 years, with an average age of 61 years. The distribution between the sexes was equal: 4 women and 3 men. Urinary infection was observed in cases (colibacilluria), whereas it was absent in 3 cases. If hematuria is present, one should, as a rule, look for a possible association with an ureteral or vesical tumor (1 case). The final diagnosis can be established only through histological examination (this was the case in only 3 of our patients), but when there is a suggestive radiologic image and a reassuring clinical picture, one can recommend a simple medical treatment (1 recovery) and propose a steady radiologic surveillance. In case of doubt or hematuria, it is preferable to advocate surgical investigation: 2 patients out of the 3 showing a hematuria, were operated on, the third having refused. In one case, hematuria was due only to cystic uretero-pyelitis, while the second was known to have a vesical tumor with C.U.P. The real danger, in presuming a cystic uretero-pyelitis, is the failure to recognize a ureteral papillomatosis, hence the necessity of radiologic surveillance. The authors did not note any serious bilateral form. The only bilateral involvement seen in the 7 cases was not accompanied by reanl deficiency.", "contents": "[Problems of cystic uretero-pyelitis (author's transl)]. The authors report on a series of 7 new cases of cystic uretero-pyelitis (C.U.P.). An historical and pathogenic review of this anatamo-radiologic entity is presented. The conditions for discovery were: renal colic in 4 instances, discovery during surgery in association with a pyeo-ureteral junction syndrome in one instance, and a hematuria in three instances (1 being accompanied by renal colic). Age varied from 22 to 78 years, with an average age of 61 years. The distribution between the sexes was equal: 4 women and 3 men. Urinary infection was observed in cases (colibacilluria), whereas it was absent in 3 cases. If hematuria is present, one should, as a rule, look for a possible association with an ureteral or vesical tumor (1 case). The final diagnosis can be established only through histological examination (this was the case in only 3 of our patients), but when there is a suggestive radiologic image and a reassuring clinical picture, one can recommend a simple medical treatment (1 recovery) and propose a steady radiologic surveillance. In case of doubt or hematuria, it is preferable to advocate surgical investigation: 2 patients out of the 3 showing a hematuria, were operated on, the third having refused. In one case, hematuria was due only to cystic uretero-pyelitis, while the second was known to have a vesical tumor with C.U.P. The real danger, in presuming a cystic uretero-pyelitis, is the failure to recognize a ureteral papillomatosis, hence the necessity of radiologic surveillance. The authors did not note any serious bilateral form. The only bilateral involvement seen in the 7 cases was not accompanied by reanl deficiency.", "PMID": 439198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4526", "title": "Evaluation of perihilar and central renal masses using the Chiba needle.", "content": "The Chiba needle was used to puncture 14 central renal masses believed to be cysts. Of these masses 13 were cysts and 1 was a peripelvic liposarcoma. Arteriography was not done before puncture. No complications occurred when these central masses surrounded by parenchyma or adjacent to hilar structures were punctured. Renal cyst puncture and cystography using the Chiba needle are safe methods for optimal diagnosis of central and peripelvic systs.", "contents": "Evaluation of perihilar and central renal masses using the Chiba needle. The Chiba needle was used to puncture 14 central renal masses believed to be cysts. Of these masses 13 were cysts and 1 was a peripelvic liposarcoma. Arteriography was not done before puncture. No complications occurred when these central masses surrounded by parenchyma or adjacent to hilar structures were punctured. Renal cyst puncture and cystography using the Chiba needle are safe methods for optimal diagnosis of central and peripelvic systs.", "PMID": 439208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4527", "title": "Rheumatoid factor: correlation with recurrence in transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder.", "content": "The serum rheumatoid factor was measured by the latex fixation test in different titrations in 100 cases of bladder tumors. The rheumatoid factor was found in transitional and squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder. The percentage of positive studies correlated well with the clinical staging of the tumors. The rheumatoid factor activity also correlated with the recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma. A high recurrence rate was found when the rheumatoid factor was present in contrast to a low recurrence rate when it was absent at the initial examination. The percentage of recurrences correlated with the titration of the rheumatoid factor. The mechanism of production of the rheumatoid factor and its correlation with tumor recurrence are discussed.", "contents": "Rheumatoid factor: correlation with recurrence in transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The serum rheumatoid factor was measured by the latex fixation test in different titrations in 100 cases of bladder tumors. The rheumatoid factor was found in transitional and squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder. The percentage of positive studies correlated well with the clinical staging of the tumors. The rheumatoid factor activity also correlated with the recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma. A high recurrence rate was found when the rheumatoid factor was present in contrast to a low recurrence rate when it was absent at the initial examination. The percentage of recurrences correlated with the titration of the rheumatoid factor. The mechanism of production of the rheumatoid factor and its correlation with tumor recurrence are discussed.", "PMID": 439209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4528", "title": "The possible role of the catecholamines of the corpora in penile erection.", "content": "The etiology of impotence, which effects 50 per cent of the men with diabetes, is unknown. The neurotransmitter (norepinephrine) released from adrenergic neurons is thought to be the most direct regulator of vascular smooth muscle. We have measured the norepinephrine content of the erectile tissue of diabetic men. Our results indicate the presence of a dual neural regulator mechanism of the corpora that controls penile erection.", "contents": "The possible role of the catecholamines of the corpora in penile erection. The etiology of impotence, which effects 50 per cent of the men with diabetes, is unknown. The neurotransmitter (norepinephrine) released from adrenergic neurons is thought to be the most direct regulator of vascular smooth muscle. We have measured the norepinephrine content of the erectile tissue of diabetic men. Our results indicate the presence of a dual neural regulator mechanism of the corpora that controls penile erection.", "PMID": 439210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4529", "title": "Management of advanced testicular seminoma.", "content": "The treatment of seminoma (stages A, B1 and B2) with conventional x-ray therapy can be expected to give satisfactory cure rates. However, the cure rate for patients with advanced stages of B3 and C disease, treated with conventional radiation therapy, is unacceptable (22 per cent). It appears that with a pre-radiation/chemotherapeutic plan consisting of actinomycin D, vincristine and cyclophosphamide survival can be improved dramatically in these patients. After a rest period of 2 to 4 weeks radiation therapy is given to the retroperitoneal, mediastinal and supraclavicular lymph nodes as per standard therapy. If evidence of bulk disease persists or if positive alpha-fetoprotein or beta-human chorionic gonadotropin has been detected then retroperitoneal lymph-adenectomy should be done after completion of the radiation therapy. With adjuvant chemotherapy 5 of 5 patients survive free of disease 18 months to 5 years after therapy.", "contents": "Management of advanced testicular seminoma. The treatment of seminoma (stages A, B1 and B2) with conventional x-ray therapy can be expected to give satisfactory cure rates. However, the cure rate for patients with advanced stages of B3 and C disease, treated with conventional radiation therapy, is unacceptable (22 per cent). It appears that with a pre-radiation/chemotherapeutic plan consisting of actinomycin D, vincristine and cyclophosphamide survival can be improved dramatically in these patients. After a rest period of 2 to 4 weeks radiation therapy is given to the retroperitoneal, mediastinal and supraclavicular lymph nodes as per standard therapy. If evidence of bulk disease persists or if positive alpha-fetoprotein or beta-human chorionic gonadotropin has been detected then retroperitoneal lymph-adenectomy should be done after completion of the radiation therapy. With adjuvant chemotherapy 5 of 5 patients survive free of disease 18 months to 5 years after therapy.", "PMID": 439211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4530", "title": "Cortisone acetate versus clomiphene citrate in per-germinal idiopathic oligospermia.", "content": "Long-term, low dose clomiphene citrate (25 mg./day for 25-day cycles with 5-day rest periods) and long-term, low dose cortisone acetate (5 mg. twice daily) were compared in equivalent populations of men with idiopathic oligospermia. Clomiphene citrate seemed to be more effective than cortisone acetate in enhancing spermatozoal number and the likelihood of pregnancy. In addition, clomiphene citrate increased serum testosterone levels and provided an indicator of hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis responsiveness.", "contents": "Cortisone acetate versus clomiphene citrate in per-germinal idiopathic oligospermia. Long-term, low dose clomiphene citrate (25 mg./day for 25-day cycles with 5-day rest periods) and long-term, low dose cortisone acetate (5 mg. twice daily) were compared in equivalent populations of men with idiopathic oligospermia. Clomiphene citrate seemed to be more effective than cortisone acetate in enhancing spermatozoal number and the likelihood of pregnancy. In addition, clomiphene citrate increased serum testosterone levels and provided an indicator of hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis responsiveness.", "PMID": 439212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4531", "title": "The varicocele and semen characteristics.", "content": "Our results indicate that the physical presence of a varicicele is not always associated with an alteration in sperm cell concentration and that a reduction of semen characteristics is more likely in men with reduced sperm counts. Our study also indicates that a higher pregnancy rate after varicocele ligation occurred in wives of patients in the lower sperm count groups. Other forms of therapy also were found to be associated with pregnancy in wives of men with varicoceles. The post-surgical pregnancy rate was 25 per cent compared to 12 per cent in the non-surgical group.", "contents": "The varicocele and semen characteristics. Our results indicate that the physical presence of a varicicele is not always associated with an alteration in sperm cell concentration and that a reduction of semen characteristics is more likely in men with reduced sperm counts. Our study also indicates that a higher pregnancy rate after varicocele ligation occurred in wives of patients in the lower sperm count groups. Other forms of therapy also were found to be associated with pregnancy in wives of men with varicoceles. The post-surgical pregnancy rate was 25 per cent compared to 12 per cent in the non-surgical group.", "PMID": 439213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4532", "title": "Prostatic acid phosphatase by radioimmunoassay tumor marker in bone marrow.", "content": "Bone marrow acid phosphatase was determined by radioimmunoassay and enzymatic analysis in 95 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy, 50 patients with disseminated prostatic carcinoma and 36 patients with non-prostatic malignancy. The results indicate superior specificity of the radioimmunoassay. A brief review of the topic and the clinical implications are discussed.", "contents": "Prostatic acid phosphatase by radioimmunoassay tumor marker in bone marrow. Bone marrow acid phosphatase was determined by radioimmunoassay and enzymatic analysis in 95 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy, 50 patients with disseminated prostatic carcinoma and 36 patients with non-prostatic malignancy. The results indicate superior specificity of the radioimmunoassay. A brief review of the topic and the clinical implications are discussed.", "PMID": 439214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4533", "title": "Complications of 125iodine implantation and pelvic lymphadenectomy in the treatment of prostatic cancer.", "content": "The operative, postoperative and late complications experienced by 300 consecutive patients who underwent 125iodine implantation and pelvic lymphadenectomy for localized prostatic cancer were analyzed. Of the patients reviewed 68 per cent had clinical stage B lesions, while 32 per cent had clinical stage C lesions. The incidence of intraoperative complications was 6 per cent. There were 2 postoperative deaths and 23 per cent of the patients had postoperative complications. Of 177 patients followed postoperatively for 6 months or more (mean 29.3 months) late morbidity was experienced by 49 (28 per cent). The incidence of impotence in 109 patients who were potent preoperatively and who were followed for a minimum of 15 months was 7 per cent.", "contents": "Complications of 125iodine implantation and pelvic lymphadenectomy in the treatment of prostatic cancer. The operative, postoperative and late complications experienced by 300 consecutive patients who underwent 125iodine implantation and pelvic lymphadenectomy for localized prostatic cancer were analyzed. Of the patients reviewed 68 per cent had clinical stage B lesions, while 32 per cent had clinical stage C lesions. The incidence of intraoperative complications was 6 per cent. There were 2 postoperative deaths and 23 per cent of the patients had postoperative complications. Of 177 patients followed postoperatively for 6 months or more (mean 29.3 months) late morbidity was experienced by 49 (28 per cent). The incidence of impotence in 109 patients who were potent preoperatively and who were followed for a minimum of 15 months was 7 per cent.", "PMID": 439215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4534", "title": "Treatment of stage D hormone-resistant carcinoma of the prostate with estramustine phosphate.", "content": "We report on 51 patients with hormone-resistant, stage D prostatic carcinoma who were treated with estramustine phosphate and followed for at least 6 months. Of the 51 patients 5 (10 per cent) had a partial objective response, 30 (59 per cent) remained stable and 16 (31 per cent) had progression of the disease. All of those patients who had a partial response or remained stable also experienced subjective improvement as judged by relief of pain and performance status. Approximately 8 per cent of the patients will be unable to take estramustine phosphate because of intolerable gastrointestinal side effects.", "contents": "Treatment of stage D hormone-resistant carcinoma of the prostate with estramustine phosphate. We report on 51 patients with hormone-resistant, stage D prostatic carcinoma who were treated with estramustine phosphate and followed for at least 6 months. Of the 51 patients 5 (10 per cent) had a partial objective response, 30 (59 per cent) remained stable and 16 (31 per cent) had progression of the disease. All of those patients who had a partial response or remained stable also experienced subjective improvement as judged by relief of pain and performance status. Approximately 8 per cent of the patients will be unable to take estramustine phosphate because of intolerable gastrointestinal side effects.", "PMID": 439216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4535", "title": "Urological injuries associated with pelvic trauma.", "content": "We reviewed 100 consecutive cases of pelvic fractures at our hospital to establish the relationship between bone injuries and urological lesions. There were 11 major urological injuries found: 6 patients had bladder laceration, 4 had rupture of the membranous urethra and 1 had a ureteral injury. Emphasis is placed on the physiopathology of the urological injuries.", "contents": "Urological injuries associated with pelvic trauma. We reviewed 100 consecutive cases of pelvic fractures at our hospital to establish the relationship between bone injuries and urological lesions. There were 11 major urological injuries found: 6 patients had bladder laceration, 4 had rupture of the membranous urethra and 1 had a ureteral injury. Emphasis is placed on the physiopathology of the urological injuries.", "PMID": 439217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4536", "title": "Bladder function in children with meningomyelocele: comparison of cine-fluoroscopy and urodynamics.", "content": "We have assessed 60 children on an outpatient basis with cine-fluoroscopy combined with urodynamics. Bladder and rectal pressure together with sphincter electromyography were measured during bladder filling under fluoroscopy, which was followed by measurement of rectal pressure and sphincter electromyography during voiding under fluoroscopy. Comparison of the x-ray studies and urodynamics showed that the cystogram alone was not a reliable indicator of ray studies and urodynamics showed that the cystogram along was not a reliable indicator of detrusor function. The sphincter electromyogram during voiding must be interpreted in the face of intra-abdominal pressure changes owing to straining or Cred\u00e9's maneuver. Residual urine estimations and the appearance of the bladder outflow on fluoroscopy were better parameters of outflow obstruction than sphincter electromyography.", "contents": "Bladder function in children with meningomyelocele: comparison of cine-fluoroscopy and urodynamics. We have assessed 60 children on an outpatient basis with cine-fluoroscopy combined with urodynamics. Bladder and rectal pressure together with sphincter electromyography were measured during bladder filling under fluoroscopy, which was followed by measurement of rectal pressure and sphincter electromyography during voiding under fluoroscopy. Comparison of the x-ray studies and urodynamics showed that the cystogram alone was not a reliable indicator of ray studies and urodynamics showed that the cystogram along was not a reliable indicator of detrusor function. The sphincter electromyogram during voiding must be interpreted in the face of intra-abdominal pressure changes owing to straining or Cred\u00e9's maneuver. Residual urine estimations and the appearance of the bladder outflow on fluoroscopy were better parameters of outflow obstruction than sphincter electromyography.", "PMID": 439218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4537", "title": "External sphincterotomy at the 12 o'clock position.", "content": "Transurethral resection of the external sphincter was done at the 12 o'clock position 61 times in 60 men. There was a 2.8 per cent incidence of postoperative impotence and a 75 per cent cure of vesicoureteral reflux but there was only a 65 per cent success rate of decreasing post-voiding residual urine after 6 months. The techniques and applications of the procedure are discussed.", "contents": "External sphincterotomy at the 12 o'clock position. Transurethral resection of the external sphincter was done at the 12 o'clock position 61 times in 60 men. There was a 2.8 per cent incidence of postoperative impotence and a 75 per cent cure of vesicoureteral reflux but there was only a 65 per cent success rate of decreasing post-voiding residual urine after 6 months. The techniques and applications of the procedure are discussed.", "PMID": 439219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4538", "title": "Biofeedback in urology using urodynamics: preliminary observations.", "content": "Biofeedback training aided by urodynamic instrumentation produced significant clinical improvement in 4 of 8 urological patients. The display of electromyographic activity of the periurethral striated muscles was facilitated by the use of a new intraurethral catheter with 5 surface mounted electrodes. This modality of treatment seems worth considering for selected patients with urinary retention or urinary incontinence.", "contents": "Biofeedback in urology using urodynamics: preliminary observations. Biofeedback training aided by urodynamic instrumentation produced significant clinical improvement in 4 of 8 urological patients. The display of electromyographic activity of the periurethral striated muscles was facilitated by the use of a new intraurethral catheter with 5 surface mounted electrodes. This modality of treatment seems worth considering for selected patients with urinary retention or urinary incontinence.", "PMID": 439220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4539", "title": "Clean intermittent catheterization in children.", "content": "The results of the application of clean intermittent catheterization to children are discussed. Of 34 patients only 7 maintained persistently sterile urine and 52 per cent had more than 1 positive culture in the followup period. Complications of the application of this technique are discussed. The major complication rate was 15 per cent and 6 per cent were considered failures of therapy. Only 1 of the 34 patients demonstrated progression of upper tract disease by excretory urography during the followup period. Intermittent catheterization was found to be effective in preserving renal function as well as helping to improve patient social acceptability.", "contents": "Clean intermittent catheterization in children. The results of the application of clean intermittent catheterization to children are discussed. Of 34 patients only 7 maintained persistently sterile urine and 52 per cent had more than 1 positive culture in the followup period. Complications of the application of this technique are discussed. The major complication rate was 15 per cent and 6 per cent were considered failures of therapy. Only 1 of the 34 patients demonstrated progression of upper tract disease by excretory urography during the followup period. Intermittent catheterization was found to be effective in preserving renal function as well as helping to improve patient social acceptability.", "PMID": 439221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4540", "title": "The exstrophy support team: a new concept in the care of the exstrophy patient.", "content": "The concept of the exstrophy support team is reported. It has extended the care of children with exstrophy into a lifelong continuum of effective assistence, not just by way of medical and surgical interaction but through knowledgeable and sympathetic coordination. There has been a spectacular improvement in over-all lifetime survival and much greater patient interest and appreciation with better followup and maintenance so that we can help quickly and effectively when problems arise. Now that we have achieved an increased longevity for these patients, we must be able to assure them the best possible quality of life.", "contents": "The exstrophy support team: a new concept in the care of the exstrophy patient. The concept of the exstrophy support team is reported. It has extended the care of children with exstrophy into a lifelong continuum of effective assistence, not just by way of medical and surgical interaction but through knowledgeable and sympathetic coordination. There has been a spectacular improvement in over-all lifetime survival and much greater patient interest and appreciation with better followup and maintenance so that we can help quickly and effectively when problems arise. Now that we have achieved an increased longevity for these patients, we must be able to assure them the best possible quality of life.", "PMID": 439222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4541", "title": "Hypospadias: a familial study.", "content": "The families of 177 boys with varying degrees of hypospadias were evaluated prospectively to determine the occurrence of hypospadias and other congenital anomalies within this population. A significant number of male subjects in each family member category were affected, with first degree relatives (brothers and fathers) having a 14 and 9 per cent incidence, respectively. Siblings were at a greater risk for having this anomaly when the proband had a more severe degree of hypospadias and when the abnormality also was present in other relatives. A multifactorial mode of inheritance is suggested as the basis for transmission of this congenital defect.", "contents": "Hypospadias: a familial study. The families of 177 boys with varying degrees of hypospadias were evaluated prospectively to determine the occurrence of hypospadias and other congenital anomalies within this population. A significant number of male subjects in each family member category were affected, with first degree relatives (brothers and fathers) having a 14 and 9 per cent incidence, respectively. Siblings were at a greater risk for having this anomaly when the proband had a more severe degree of hypospadias and when the abnormality also was present in other relatives. A multifactorial mode of inheritance is suggested as the basis for transmission of this congenital defect.", "PMID": 439223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4542", "title": "Urolithiasis in children.", "content": "A 10-year review of stones in children at the St. Louis University Hospitals is presented. Stones related to infection were seen most often and urinary diversion secondary to congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract was the most frequent predisposing cause. The morbidity of stones in children is high.", "contents": "Urolithiasis in children. A 10-year review of stones in children at the St. Louis University Hospitals is presented. Stones related to infection were seen most often and urinary diversion secondary to congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract was the most frequent predisposing cause. The morbidity of stones in children is high.", "PMID": 439224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4543", "title": "Unusual aspects of urinary calculi in children.", "content": "Urinary calculous disease is unusual in children in the United States. During the last 5 years (1972 to 1977) we have examined and treated 35 children with urinary calculi. The predisposing factors to calculus formation have been established in 20 children. Metabolic screening, although mandatory, has proved unrewarding in the evaluation of children with urinary calculi. Obstructive uropathy, immobilization, urinary stasis and infection, previously undiagnosed urologic anomalies, steroid therapy, milk-alkali syndrome, iatrogenic disease and endemic disease have contributed to stone formation. The management of children with urinary calculi generally parallels that of adults but reflects a need for caution when performing transurethral extraction of lower ureteral calculi. Reduction in dairy product intake, fluid diuresis and frequent changes in position may provide adequate prophylaxis against urinary calculi in children who must be immobilized.", "contents": "Unusual aspects of urinary calculi in children. Urinary calculous disease is unusual in children in the United States. During the last 5 years (1972 to 1977) we have examined and treated 35 children with urinary calculi. The predisposing factors to calculus formation have been established in 20 children. Metabolic screening, although mandatory, has proved unrewarding in the evaluation of children with urinary calculi. Obstructive uropathy, immobilization, urinary stasis and infection, previously undiagnosed urologic anomalies, steroid therapy, milk-alkali syndrome, iatrogenic disease and endemic disease have contributed to stone formation. The management of children with urinary calculi generally parallels that of adults but reflects a need for caution when performing transurethral extraction of lower ureteral calculi. Reduction in dairy product intake, fluid diuresis and frequent changes in position may provide adequate prophylaxis against urinary calculi in children who must be immobilized.", "PMID": 439225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4544", "title": "Benign giant adrenal cyst and parathyroid adenoma: a case report.", "content": "An unusual case of a benign adrenal cyst and a parathyroid adenoma occurring in a 59-year-old man with hypercalcemia is reported. Excretory urography, ultrasound, renal aortography, computerized axial tomography and selective thyroid venous sampling were used to establish a diagnosis. Left adrenalectomy was done because of a suspicion of malignancy, which was followed by excision of a retrolaryngeal parathyroid adenoma.", "contents": "Benign giant adrenal cyst and parathyroid adenoma: a case report. An unusual case of a benign adrenal cyst and a parathyroid adenoma occurring in a 59-year-old man with hypercalcemia is reported. Excretory urography, ultrasound, renal aortography, computerized axial tomography and selective thyroid venous sampling were used to establish a diagnosis. Left adrenalectomy was done because of a suspicion of malignancy, which was followed by excision of a retrolaryngeal parathyroid adenoma.", "PMID": 439227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4545", "title": "Apparent exceptions to the usual patterns in renal trauma.", "content": "Selected cases of renal injuries illustrate the impression that clinical exceptions often may reflect errors in diagnostic interpretation and reaction rather than actual complications, rendering a policy incompetent or dangerously unreliable. These cases, as well as a comparison of debates regarding the management of renal trauma, are intended to offer further encouragement to a non-operative approach to injuries of intermediate degree.", "contents": "Apparent exceptions to the usual patterns in renal trauma. Selected cases of renal injuries illustrate the impression that clinical exceptions often may reflect errors in diagnostic interpretation and reaction rather than actual complications, rendering a policy incompetent or dangerously unreliable. These cases, as well as a comparison of debates regarding the management of renal trauma, are intended to offer further encouragement to a non-operative approach to injuries of intermediate degree.", "PMID": 439228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4546", "title": "Benign cholestatic jaundice after nephrectomy for pyonephrosis and sepsis.", "content": "Severe benign postoperative intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice appeared immediately after nephrectomy in a patient with nephrolithiasis and septicemia. Convalescence was uneventful and no treatment was necessary. This diagnostic possibility should be considered whenever jaundice appears postoperatively for pyonephrosis and septicemia.", "contents": "Benign cholestatic jaundice after nephrectomy for pyonephrosis and sepsis. Severe benign postoperative intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice appeared immediately after nephrectomy in a patient with nephrolithiasis and septicemia. Convalescence was uneventful and no treatment was necessary. This diagnostic possibility should be considered whenever jaundice appears postoperatively for pyonephrosis and septicemia.", "PMID": 439229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4547", "title": "Quadruple renal neoplasia: bilateral renal tumors of dissimilar histogenesis.", "content": "Four separate renal neoplasms were removed from a 64-year-old man during a period of 8 months. A lesion was first identified in the left kidney and the nephrectomy specimen had 2 separate adenocarcinomas. A third adenocarcinoma and a papillary urothelial pelvic carcinoma were found subsequently and segmentally resected from the right kidney. The patient died 9 years later with local recurrence of the urothelial neoplasm but no evidence of metastatic carcinoma.", "contents": "Quadruple renal neoplasia: bilateral renal tumors of dissimilar histogenesis. Four separate renal neoplasms were removed from a 64-year-old man during a period of 8 months. A lesion was first identified in the left kidney and the nephrectomy specimen had 2 separate adenocarcinomas. A third adenocarcinoma and a papillary urothelial pelvic carcinoma were found subsequently and segmentally resected from the right kidney. The patient died 9 years later with local recurrence of the urothelial neoplasm but no evidence of metastatic carcinoma.", "PMID": 439230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4548", "title": "Proliferative glomerulonephritis associated with reflex nephropathy.", "content": "A case of unilateral reflux nephropathy treated by initial ureteral reimplantation and subsequent nephrectomy is reported. Pathologic examination of the resected kidney showed unsuspected proliferative glomerulonephritis. The relationship of chronic atrophic pyelonephritis, as seen in reflux nephropathy, and glomerulonephritis is discussed to emphasize that reflux nephropathy does not exclude the presence of other renal disease that may complicate the long-term care of the patient.", "contents": "Proliferative glomerulonephritis associated with reflex nephropathy. A case of unilateral reflux nephropathy treated by initial ureteral reimplantation and subsequent nephrectomy is reported. Pathologic examination of the resected kidney showed unsuspected proliferative glomerulonephritis. The relationship of chronic atrophic pyelonephritis, as seen in reflux nephropathy, and glomerulonephritis is discussed to emphasize that reflux nephropathy does not exclude the presence of other renal disease that may complicate the long-term care of the patient.", "PMID": 439231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4549", "title": "Renal failure owing to oxalate nephrosis after jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "Oxalate nephrosis resulted in progressive renal failure in 4 patients after jejunoileal bypass for morbid obesity. In general, increased levels of oxalates in the blood and urine of such patients result from enhanced absorption of exogenous oxalates. Urinary calculous formation is determined further by concomitant deficiency of inhibitor substances, whereas oxalate nephrosis probably occurs as a result of oxalate deposition in renal interstitium via the blood stream. Clinical manifestations of oxalate nephrosis include pain, infection, hematuria and renal failure. Routine postoperative renal function studies and early renal biopsy in suspicious cases are urged to establish early diagnosis. Continued deterioration of renal function, despite therapy with oxalate restruction and oxalate binding agents, indicates a reversal of the bypass to preserve unaffected renal substance.", "contents": "Renal failure owing to oxalate nephrosis after jejunoileal bypass. Oxalate nephrosis resulted in progressive renal failure in 4 patients after jejunoileal bypass for morbid obesity. In general, increased levels of oxalates in the blood and urine of such patients result from enhanced absorption of exogenous oxalates. Urinary calculous formation is determined further by concomitant deficiency of inhibitor substances, whereas oxalate nephrosis probably occurs as a result of oxalate deposition in renal interstitium via the blood stream. Clinical manifestations of oxalate nephrosis include pain, infection, hematuria and renal failure. Routine postoperative renal function studies and early renal biopsy in suspicious cases are urged to establish early diagnosis. Continued deterioration of renal function, despite therapy with oxalate restruction and oxalate binding agents, indicates a reversal of the bypass to preserve unaffected renal substance.", "PMID": 439232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4550", "title": "Coexistence of renal artery stenosis and uretheropelvic junction obstruction in hypertensive patients with elevated renin.", "content": "Two hypertensive patients with elevated renin presenting with renal artery stenosis and ureteropelvic junction obstruction are reported. Nephrectomy was successful in 1 patient and the other patient was treated wiht renal autotransplantation and dismembered pyeloplasty. The diagnostic and therapeutic problems of coexistent renal lesions are discussed.", "contents": "Coexistence of renal artery stenosis and uretheropelvic junction obstruction in hypertensive patients with elevated renin. Two hypertensive patients with elevated renin presenting with renal artery stenosis and ureteropelvic junction obstruction are reported. Nephrectomy was successful in 1 patient and the other patient was treated wiht renal autotransplantation and dismembered pyeloplasty. The diagnostic and therapeutic problems of coexistent renal lesions are discussed.", "PMID": 439233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4551", "title": "Retrocaval ureter: report of 8 cases and the surgical management.", "content": "We present 8 cases of retrocaval ureter, one of which concerns a unique periureteral venous ring formed by the persistence of the right posterior cardinal vein along with a normal vena cava. Current radiographic concepts are reviewed and the importance of inferior venacavography in the preoperative evaluation for correction of the retrocaval ureter is emphasized.", "contents": "Retrocaval ureter: report of 8 cases and the surgical management. We present 8 cases of retrocaval ureter, one of which concerns a unique periureteral venous ring formed by the persistence of the right posterior cardinal vein along with a normal vena cava. Current radiographic concepts are reviewed and the importance of inferior venacavography in the preoperative evaluation for correction of the retrocaval ureter is emphasized.", "PMID": 439235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4552", "title": "Tandem transureteroureterostomy.", "content": "A case of bilateral hydronephrosis after transureteroureterostomy is reported. Management of such complications may be difficult and should include innovative ureteral salvage based upon fundamental principles of ureteral surgery.", "contents": "Tandem transureteroureterostomy. A case of bilateral hydronephrosis after transureteroureterostomy is reported. Management of such complications may be difficult and should include innovative ureteral salvage based upon fundamental principles of ureteral surgery.", "PMID": 439236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4553", "title": "Bladder perforations secondary to surgical drains.", "content": "Three patients with complications secondary to pelvic surgical drains are described. The mechanism and management of complication as well as methods of prevention are discussed.", "contents": "Bladder perforations secondary to surgical drains. Three patients with complications secondary to pelvic surgical drains are described. The mechanism and management of complication as well as methods of prevention are discussed.", "PMID": 439237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4554", "title": "Fibroepithelial polyp of the verumontanum: a case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A fibrous polyp of the verumontanum in a 10-year-old boy is described. The diagnosis, treatment and histology are discussed and the literature is reviewed. Perhaps this lesion will be noted more frequently with the availability of improved radiographic and cystoscopic techniques. The treatment has been greatly simplified with the advent of the pediatric resectoscope.", "contents": "Fibroepithelial polyp of the verumontanum: a case report and review of the literature. A fibrous polyp of the verumontanum in a 10-year-old boy is described. The diagnosis, treatment and histology are discussed and the literature is reviewed. Perhaps this lesion will be noted more frequently with the availability of improved radiographic and cystoscopic techniques. The treatment has been greatly simplified with the advent of the pediatric resectoscope.", "PMID": 439238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4555", "title": "Penile lengthening after previous repair of epispadias.", "content": "Unsatisfactory appearance and function of the penis are common after repair of complete epispadias. Reoperation can benefit the majority of these patients. The principles of repair in secondary cases as well as primary cases include wide mobilization of the corpora to gain length, resection of dorsal chordee to straighten the shaft, augmentation of urethral length with a graft, secure closure of the corpora over the urethra to avoid a fistula, wide mobilization of the mons to place hair-bearing skin in proper location and Z-plasty closure.", "contents": "Penile lengthening after previous repair of epispadias. Unsatisfactory appearance and function of the penis are common after repair of complete epispadias. Reoperation can benefit the majority of these patients. The principles of repair in secondary cases as well as primary cases include wide mobilization of the corpora to gain length, resection of dorsal chordee to straighten the shaft, augmentation of urethral length with a graft, secure closure of the corpora over the urethra to avoid a fistula, wide mobilization of the mons to place hair-bearing skin in proper location and Z-plasty closure.", "PMID": 439239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4556", "title": "Scrotal cystocele.", "content": "Massive inguinoscrotal bladder herniation is a surgical rarity. A 2-stage voiding pattern is typically noted. Excretory urography and retrogradecystography are extremely helpful in verifying the diagnosis of bladder herniation. A case of scrotal cystocele is reported.", "contents": "Scrotal cystocele. Massive inguinoscrotal bladder herniation is a surgical rarity. A 2-stage voiding pattern is typically noted. Excretory urography and retrogradecystography are extremely helpful in verifying the diagnosis of bladder herniation. A case of scrotal cystocele is reported.", "PMID": 439240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4557", "title": "Sacral agenesis: diagnosis, treatment and followup of urological complications.", "content": "Sacral agenesis is an uncommon congenital anomaly that usually is accompanied by other orthopedic anomalies but often occurs singularly. We report our experience in the treatment and long-term followup of 4 cases of pure sacral agenesis. We strongly stress the need for early diagnosis and long-term careful followup. In our group the diagnosis was often overlooked and followup was poor. Studies must be undertaken to determine the type and degree of neurogenic vesicopathy in each child since this may vary from one patient to the next. We urge the early and long-term use of intermittent catheterization.", "contents": "Sacral agenesis: diagnosis, treatment and followup of urological complications. Sacral agenesis is an uncommon congenital anomaly that usually is accompanied by other orthopedic anomalies but often occurs singularly. We report our experience in the treatment and long-term followup of 4 cases of pure sacral agenesis. We strongly stress the need for early diagnosis and long-term careful followup. In our group the diagnosis was often overlooked and followup was poor. Studies must be undertaken to determine the type and degree of neurogenic vesicopathy in each child since this may vary from one patient to the next. We urge the early and long-term use of intermittent catheterization.", "PMID": 439241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4558", "title": "Renal artery stenosis in hypertensive diabetics.", "content": "The incidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis was compared in consecutive renal angiography of 28 hypertensive diabetics and 104 hypertensive non-diabetics. Mean age and sex distribution were comparable. Angiographic evidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis was present in 10 diabetics (36 per cent) and 50 non-diabetics (48 per cent). Stenosis was considered hemodynamically significant if the renal vein renin ratio of the involved to uninvolved side was 1.4:1.0 or more. A renal vein renin ratio equal to or more than 1.4 was observed in 4 of 7 diabetics (57 per cent) and 31 of 47 non-diabetics (67 per cent). Fibromuscular hyperplasia was not seen in diabetics but was present in 12 per cent of the non-diabetics. Hypertension was treated surgically and improved in 2 of 3 diabetics (67 per cent) and in 17 of 19 non-diabetics (89 per cent) with angiographic and hemodynamic evidence of renal artery stenosis. In this series the incidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis of physiologic consequence was not significantly different in hypertensive diabetics when compared to hypertensive non-diabetics.", "contents": "Renal artery stenosis in hypertensive diabetics. The incidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis was compared in consecutive renal angiography of 28 hypertensive diabetics and 104 hypertensive non-diabetics. Mean age and sex distribution were comparable. Angiographic evidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis was present in 10 diabetics (36 per cent) and 50 non-diabetics (48 per cent). Stenosis was considered hemodynamically significant if the renal vein renin ratio of the involved to uninvolved side was 1.4:1.0 or more. A renal vein renin ratio equal to or more than 1.4 was observed in 4 of 7 diabetics (57 per cent) and 31 of 47 non-diabetics (67 per cent). Fibromuscular hyperplasia was not seen in diabetics but was present in 12 per cent of the non-diabetics. Hypertension was treated surgically and improved in 2 of 3 diabetics (67 per cent) and in 17 of 19 non-diabetics (89 per cent) with angiographic and hemodynamic evidence of renal artery stenosis. In this series the incidence of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis of physiologic consequence was not significantly different in hypertensive diabetics when compared to hypertensive non-diabetics.", "PMID": 439246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4559", "title": "New technique for percutaneous nephrostomy under ultrasound guidance.", "content": "The 8F cystocath has been used as a temporary percutaneous nephrostomy. B-mode ultrasonography was used to determine the depth and direction of trocar placement after initial confirmation with a spinal needle. No immediate complications were noted in 10 successful insertions and there was only 1 failure of entry.", "contents": "New technique for percutaneous nephrostomy under ultrasound guidance. The 8F cystocath has been used as a temporary percutaneous nephrostomy. B-mode ultrasonography was used to determine the depth and direction of trocar placement after initial confirmation with a spinal needle. No immediate complications were noted in 10 successful insertions and there was only 1 failure of entry.", "PMID": 439247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4560", "title": "Intraoperative localization of renal calculi using the Polarex 2 C-arm image intensifier.", "content": "We present our experience with the C-arm image intensifier in the localization of renal calculi. We have found this technique to be exceptionally easy to use and extraordinarily efficient. However, unless the disk images are used primarily, rather than continuous fluoroscopy, the radiation exposure can be significant. This technique can be somewhat limiting in that exceptionally small stones or poorly opacified stones cannot be picked up easily.", "contents": "Intraoperative localization of renal calculi using the Polarex 2 C-arm image intensifier. We present our experience with the C-arm image intensifier in the localization of renal calculi. We have found this technique to be exceptionally easy to use and extraordinarily efficient. However, unless the disk images are used primarily, rather than continuous fluoroscopy, the radiation exposure can be significant. This technique can be somewhat limiting in that exceptionally small stones or poorly opacified stones cannot be picked up easily.", "PMID": 439248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4561", "title": "Outpatient evaluation of patients with calcium urolithiasis.", "content": "Eighty patients with proved calcium urolithiasis participated in an outpatient study designed to define the most likely metabolic problem related to the cause of the stone disease. Diagnostic categories included absorptive hypercalciuria (33 patients), renal leak hypercalciuria (20 patients), hypomagnesiumuria (27 patients), hyperuricemia and hyperuricuria (16 patients), hyperoxaluria (15 patients), normal stone-former (4 patients), renal tubular acidosis (2 patients) and suspicion of hyperparathyroidism (7 patients). Of the 80 patients 40 had more than 1 defect. Patients with a high suspicion of hyperparathyroidism were excluded from the study. Based on these criteria treatment plans incorporating medications, diet or both were instituted. Of 21 patients observed for greater than 2 years 90 per cent have shown no new stone disease.", "contents": "Outpatient evaluation of patients with calcium urolithiasis. Eighty patients with proved calcium urolithiasis participated in an outpatient study designed to define the most likely metabolic problem related to the cause of the stone disease. Diagnostic categories included absorptive hypercalciuria (33 patients), renal leak hypercalciuria (20 patients), hypomagnesiumuria (27 patients), hyperuricemia and hyperuricuria (16 patients), hyperoxaluria (15 patients), normal stone-former (4 patients), renal tubular acidosis (2 patients) and suspicion of hyperparathyroidism (7 patients). Of the 80 patients 40 had more than 1 defect. Patients with a high suspicion of hyperparathyroidism were excluded from the study. Based on these criteria treatment plans incorporating medications, diet or both were instituted. Of 21 patients observed for greater than 2 years 90 per cent have shown no new stone disease.", "PMID": 439249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4562", "title": "Calcified renal cell carcinoma: a clinical, radiographic and pathologic study.", "content": "A retrospective review from 1954 to 1977 revealed 17 patients with radiographically calcified renal cell carcinoma. Any calcified renal lesion, regardless of the characteristics of the calcification, must be regarded as suspicious for a malignant neoplasm. Calcified renal cell carcinoma appears to be a biologically distinct subgroup of renal parenchymal tumors. The angiographic diagnosis of these tumors often was difficult since most were either hypovascular or avascular. Most calcified renal parenchymal tumors were relatively large but tended to be localized and histologically well differentiated. These tumors were associated with a predicted 5-year survival rate of 77 per cent.", "contents": "Calcified renal cell carcinoma: a clinical, radiographic and pathologic study. A retrospective review from 1954 to 1977 revealed 17 patients with radiographically calcified renal cell carcinoma. Any calcified renal lesion, regardless of the characteristics of the calcification, must be regarded as suspicious for a malignant neoplasm. Calcified renal cell carcinoma appears to be a biologically distinct subgroup of renal parenchymal tumors. The angiographic diagnosis of these tumors often was difficult since most were either hypovascular or avascular. Most calcified renal parenchymal tumors were relatively large but tended to be localized and histologically well differentiated. These tumors were associated with a predicted 5-year survival rate of 77 per cent.", "PMID": 439250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4563", "title": "Controlled ureteral meatotomy.", "content": "An endourologic technique for a safe and adequate ureteral meatotomy has been devised. The ureter is catheterized anterograde through a percutaneous nephrostomy and a controlled ureteral meatotomy is done with a modified ureteral catheter. A silicone splint is then placed. The technique is safer than other techniques because repeated, more proximal incisions can be made and because the splint and proximal urinary division will prevent extravasation.", "contents": "Controlled ureteral meatotomy. An endourologic technique for a safe and adequate ureteral meatotomy has been devised. The ureter is catheterized anterograde through a percutaneous nephrostomy and a controlled ureteral meatotomy is done with a modified ureteral catheter. A silicone splint is then placed. The technique is safer than other techniques because repeated, more proximal incisions can be made and because the splint and proximal urinary division will prevent extravasation.", "PMID": 439251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4564", "title": "Surgical correction of ureteroceles.", "content": "A personal experience in the management of 73 ureterocele cases during the last 17 years and points of technical importance in the correction of this sometimes complex problem are described. Small adult-type ureteroceles are best resected, reimplanting the ureter, since simple unroofing can cause reflux. The infant-type ureterocele with a duplex collecting system requires individualization according to the status of the patient. In ectopic ureterocele cases the bladder outlet often requires repair. The spectrum of management for this group of problems is shown by representative cases.", "contents": "Surgical correction of ureteroceles. A personal experience in the management of 73 ureterocele cases during the last 17 years and points of technical importance in the correction of this sometimes complex problem are described. Small adult-type ureteroceles are best resected, reimplanting the ureter, since simple unroofing can cause reflux. The infant-type ureterocele with a duplex collecting system requires individualization according to the status of the patient. In ectopic ureterocele cases the bladder outlet often requires repair. The spectrum of management for this group of problems is shown by representative cases.", "PMID": 439252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4565", "title": "Ureteral replacement using a new variation of the tailored ileal segment.", "content": "Long-term complications of ureteral replacement by the small intestine are discussed. A new concept of tailoring the intestinal graft has proved successful in experimental animals. The first clinical application of this technique involves a 22-year-old women whose left kidney and right ureter were destroyed by tuberculosis. Excellent results were noted at the 3-year followup.", "contents": "Ureteral replacement using a new variation of the tailored ileal segment. Long-term complications of ureteral replacement by the small intestine are discussed. A new concept of tailoring the intestinal graft has proved successful in experimental animals. The first clinical application of this technique involves a 22-year-old women whose left kidney and right ureter were destroyed by tuberculosis. Excellent results were noted at the 3-year followup.", "PMID": 439253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4566", "title": "An evaluation of 170 diagnostic pressure flow studies of the upper urinary tract.", "content": "An analysis of 170 pressure flow perfusion studies reveals that they can be valuable in patients of all ages, but particularly so in children, and in a variety of clinical conditions. The complication rate is low and there are few patients in whom these studies do not provide a clear-cut answer on the degree of obstruction. They can be recommended as useful and, at times, invaluable clinical tools.", "contents": "An evaluation of 170 diagnostic pressure flow studies of the upper urinary tract. An analysis of 170 pressure flow perfusion studies reveals that they can be valuable in patients of all ages, but particularly so in children, and in a variety of clinical conditions. The complication rate is low and there are few patients in whom these studies do not provide a clear-cut answer on the degree of obstruction. They can be recommended as useful and, at times, invaluable clinical tools.", "PMID": 439254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4567", "title": "Urethral compression procedure for the treatment of male urinary incontinence.", "content": "We believe that there still is a place for passive compression of the bulbous urethra in the treatment of male urinary incontinence after prostatectomy or sphincterotomy. The procedure is simple to do and it is relatively free of complications. However, since it provides only passive resistance and cannot compensate for sudden increases in intravesical pressure, stress incontinence of minor degree is not uncommon. In our series of 184 cases 61 (33 per cent) became completely dry, required no protection and voided with a good stream and without residual urine. Another 51 patients had some stress incontinence but were pleased with the results so that 61 per cent derived definite benefit from the operation. There were 20 (11 per cent) major complications in this series. With recent modifications of the technique and the prosthesis the complication rate has been reduced to 7 per cent in the last 50 cases. The opportunity to adjust the compression postoperatively by injection provides advantages over other passive compression procedures.", "contents": "Urethral compression procedure for the treatment of male urinary incontinence. We believe that there still is a place for passive compression of the bulbous urethra in the treatment of male urinary incontinence after prostatectomy or sphincterotomy. The procedure is simple to do and it is relatively free of complications. However, since it provides only passive resistance and cannot compensate for sudden increases in intravesical pressure, stress incontinence of minor degree is not uncommon. In our series of 184 cases 61 (33 per cent) became completely dry, required no protection and voided with a good stream and without residual urine. Another 51 patients had some stress incontinence but were pleased with the results so that 61 per cent derived definite benefit from the operation. There were 20 (11 per cent) major complications in this series. With recent modifications of the technique and the prosthesis the complication rate has been reduced to 7 per cent in the last 50 cases. The opportunity to adjust the compression postoperatively by injection provides advantages over other passive compression procedures.", "PMID": 439255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4568", "title": "A comparison of the Small-Carrion and Scott-Bradley penile prostheses.", "content": "The Small-Carrion penile prosthesis has been implanted in 28 patients and the Scott-Bradley inflatable prosthesis has been implanted in 17. Almost all patients are satisfied with the results. There appeared to be no absolute correlation between the postoperative appearance of the penis and the sexual performance. Provided a reasonable cosmetic result is obtained the patient's attitude is the most important determinant of sexual function.", "contents": "A comparison of the Small-Carrion and Scott-Bradley penile prostheses. The Small-Carrion penile prosthesis has been implanted in 28 patients and the Scott-Bradley inflatable prosthesis has been implanted in 17. Almost all patients are satisfied with the results. There appeared to be no absolute correlation between the postoperative appearance of the penis and the sexual performance. Provided a reasonable cosmetic result is obtained the patient's attitude is the most important determinant of sexual function.", "PMID": 439256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4569", "title": "Extended pelvic lymphadenectomy for prostatic cancer.", "content": "Thirty patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma underwent extended pelvic lymph-adenectomy, including the presacral and presciatic (lateral sacral) areas. The first echelon of pelvic nodes to be involved by metastases was the external iliac, obturator, presacral and presciatic. The deep presacral-presciatic nodes were involved almost as often as the more superficial external iliac-obturator group. Metastases limited only to the deep pelvic nodes were found in 14 per cent of the cases.", "contents": "Extended pelvic lymphadenectomy for prostatic cancer. Thirty patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma underwent extended pelvic lymph-adenectomy, including the presacral and presciatic (lateral sacral) areas. The first echelon of pelvic nodes to be involved by metastases was the external iliac, obturator, presacral and presciatic. The deep presacral-presciatic nodes were involved almost as often as the more superficial external iliac-obturator group. Metastases limited only to the deep pelvic nodes were found in 14 per cent of the cases.", "PMID": 439257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4570", "title": "Preservation of sexual potency in prostatic cancer patients after pelvic lymphadenectomy and retropubic 125I implantation.", "content": "Sexual histories were obtained from 51 patients (average age 67.7 years) with prostatic cancer and their spouses before and after pelvic lymphadenectomy and retropubic 125iodine implantation. Sexual potency was retained in 40 of the 41 patients who were sexually active preoperatively. Ten patients were sexually inactive preoperatively: 4 with diminished potency and 6 with complete erectile impotence. Sexual dysfunction was most often psychogenic in origin. At 6 months 5 of these patients had resumed satisfactory sexual intercourse as a result of reassurance, encouragement and education of remaining sexual potential. No patient suffered complete erectile impotence as a result of the procedure.", "contents": "Preservation of sexual potency in prostatic cancer patients after pelvic lymphadenectomy and retropubic 125I implantation. Sexual histories were obtained from 51 patients (average age 67.7 years) with prostatic cancer and their spouses before and after pelvic lymphadenectomy and retropubic 125iodine implantation. Sexual potency was retained in 40 of the 41 patients who were sexually active preoperatively. Ten patients were sexually inactive preoperatively: 4 with diminished potency and 6 with complete erectile impotence. Sexual dysfunction was most often psychogenic in origin. At 6 months 5 of these patients had resumed satisfactory sexual intercourse as a result of reassurance, encouragement and education of remaining sexual potential. No patient suffered complete erectile impotence as a result of the procedure.", "PMID": 439258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4571", "title": "Applications of thin needle aspiration biopsy in urology.", "content": "Percutaneous thin needle aspiration biopsy was done on 34 patients for better staging of malignant disease by study of opacified lymph nodes, on 12 patients to eliminate the possibility of a malignant etiology of ureteral obstruction and on 7 patients with potentially metastatic soft tissue or visceral lesions. Ideally, a positive biopsy should change subsequent patient management and may eliminate the need for an exploratory operation. A significant number of falsely negative results occur and, for this reason, a negative biopsy should not affect subsequent patient management.", "contents": "Applications of thin needle aspiration biopsy in urology. Percutaneous thin needle aspiration biopsy was done on 34 patients for better staging of malignant disease by study of opacified lymph nodes, on 12 patients to eliminate the possibility of a malignant etiology of ureteral obstruction and on 7 patients with potentially metastatic soft tissue or visceral lesions. Ideally, a positive biopsy should change subsequent patient management and may eliminate the need for an exploratory operation. A significant number of falsely negative results occur and, for this reason, a negative biopsy should not affect subsequent patient management.", "PMID": 439259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4572", "title": "Transcatheter arterial embolization in urological tumors: the use of isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate.", "content": "Transcatheter arterial embolization is a useful technique to manage urological tumors. Herein we describe a new embolic material (isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate) in 5 cases of renal cancer embolization and in 1 case of bilateral hypogastric embolization for bladder cancer hemorrhage. Isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate provides a complete, distal and irreversible embolization, making it suitable material in cancer embolization.", "contents": "Transcatheter arterial embolization in urological tumors: the use of isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate. Transcatheter arterial embolization is a useful technique to manage urological tumors. Herein we describe a new embolic material (isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate) in 5 cases of renal cancer embolization and in 1 case of bilateral hypogastric embolization for bladder cancer hemorrhage. Isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate provides a complete, distal and irreversible embolization, making it suitable material in cancer embolization.", "PMID": 439260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4573", "title": "Urodynamic testing: alternatives to electronics.", "content": "Electronic urodynamic testing, including bladder pressure, urethral pressure profile, voiding rate and velocity, and electromyography, is expensive in terms of equipment, operator and time. Clinical urodynamic testing, including voiding habits and timing, bladder capacity, residual urine volume, voiding cystography, cystometrography and neurologic evaluation, is readily done in the office. Analysis of common syndromes requiring urodynamic assay shows that clinical urodynamic testing may be more useful than electronic urodynamic testing for appropriate treatment.", "contents": "Urodynamic testing: alternatives to electronics. Electronic urodynamic testing, including bladder pressure, urethral pressure profile, voiding rate and velocity, and electromyography, is expensive in terms of equipment, operator and time. Clinical urodynamic testing, including voiding habits and timing, bladder capacity, residual urine volume, voiding cystography, cystometrography and neurologic evaluation, is readily done in the office. Analysis of common syndromes requiring urodynamic assay shows that clinical urodynamic testing may be more useful than electronic urodynamic testing for appropriate treatment.", "PMID": 439261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4574", "title": "Extravesical ureteroplasty.", "content": "The results of extravesical ureteroplasty (Lich-Gregoir technique) for primary extravesical reflux in 62 children with 82 refluxing renal units are evaluated. Postoperative radiograms revealed persistent reflux in 5 (6.1 per cent) and obstruction in 1 (1.2 per cent) of the renal units. Of 7 patients in whom bilateral reflux had been noted previously but who had unilateral reflux at the time of operation, unilateral repair resulted in absence of reflux on the contralateral side in 6. The favorable success rate, low morbidity and median 5-day hospitalization support the use of extravesical ureteroplasty for uncomplicated reflux.", "contents": "Extravesical ureteroplasty. The results of extravesical ureteroplasty (Lich-Gregoir technique) for primary extravesical reflux in 62 children with 82 refluxing renal units are evaluated. Postoperative radiograms revealed persistent reflux in 5 (6.1 per cent) and obstruction in 1 (1.2 per cent) of the renal units. Of 7 patients in whom bilateral reflux had been noted previously but who had unilateral reflux at the time of operation, unilateral repair resulted in absence of reflux on the contralateral side in 6. The favorable success rate, low morbidity and median 5-day hospitalization support the use of extravesical ureteroplasty for uncomplicated reflux.", "PMID": 439262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4575", "title": "Ketamine as a detumescence agent during hypospadias repair.", "content": "Ketamine hydrochloride was used successfully to produce detumescence in 7 children undergoing hypospadias repair. There have been no complications or side effects. We recommend ketamine hydrochloride as a useful adjunct in managing corporeal erections during urologic procedures.", "contents": "Ketamine as a detumescence agent during hypospadias repair. Ketamine hydrochloride was used successfully to produce detumescence in 7 children undergoing hypospadias repair. There have been no complications or side effects. We recommend ketamine hydrochloride as a useful adjunct in managing corporeal erections during urologic procedures.", "PMID": 439264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4576", "title": "Childhood urolithiasis.", "content": "Between 1965 and 1976, 54 children with urolithiasis were evaluated and treated. Age, sex, race distribution, patient symptomatology, stone localization and type are outlined. The relationship of stone formation to urinary infection and/or genitourinary anomalies is reviewed, and treatment and recurrence patterns are studied.", "contents": "Childhood urolithiasis. Between 1965 and 1976, 54 children with urolithiasis were evaluated and treated. Age, sex, race distribution, patient symptomatology, stone localization and type are outlined. The relationship of stone formation to urinary infection and/or genitourinary anomalies is reviewed, and treatment and recurrence patterns are studied.", "PMID": 439265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4577", "title": "Urinary kallikrein excretion in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.", "content": "The plasma kallikrein-kinin system, a potent vasodilator, has been implicated in causing the protein loss of the idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. However, the kidney possesses a kallikrein-kinin system separate from the plasma system. Thus, urinary kallikrein may reflect more accurately intrarenal events. Using a radiochemical esterolytic assay we measured the urinary kallikrein excretion in a patient with a minimal lesion nephrotic syndrome during relapse. Protein excretion was initially elevated (8.1 plus or minus 2.0 gm. per 24 hours) as was urinary kallikrein excretion (96.4 plus or minus 46.6 EU per 24 hours). After initiation of steroid therapy protein and kallikrein excretion decreased significantly (p less than 0.05). During the entire study kallikrein excretion was significantly correlated with protein excretion (r equals 0.89, p less than 0.01). It is tempting to speculate that activation of the intrarenal kallikrein-kinin system participates in the protein loss characteristic of the nephrotic syndrome.", "contents": "Urinary kallikrein excretion in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. The plasma kallikrein-kinin system, a potent vasodilator, has been implicated in causing the protein loss of the idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. However, the kidney possesses a kallikrein-kinin system separate from the plasma system. Thus, urinary kallikrein may reflect more accurately intrarenal events. Using a radiochemical esterolytic assay we measured the urinary kallikrein excretion in a patient with a minimal lesion nephrotic syndrome during relapse. Protein excretion was initially elevated (8.1 plus or minus 2.0 gm. per 24 hours) as was urinary kallikrein excretion (96.4 plus or minus 46.6 EU per 24 hours). After initiation of steroid therapy protein and kallikrein excretion decreased significantly (p less than 0.05). During the entire study kallikrein excretion was significantly correlated with protein excretion (r equals 0.89, p less than 0.01). It is tempting to speculate that activation of the intrarenal kallikrein-kinin system participates in the protein loss characteristic of the nephrotic syndrome.", "PMID": 439267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4578", "title": "Renal angiomyolipoma: diagnosis by combined ultrasound and computerized tomography.", "content": "A case is presented of a 2 cm. renal angiomyolipoma. Computerized tomography demonstrated a region of low attenuation coefficient within this tumor, while B-mode ultrasound visualizes the tumor as a cluster of high amplitude echoes. The diagnosis of a renal angiomylipoma may be suspected preoperatively when this combination of findings is present with computerized tomography and ultrasound.", "contents": "Renal angiomyolipoma: diagnosis by combined ultrasound and computerized tomography. A case is presented of a 2 cm. renal angiomyolipoma. Computerized tomography demonstrated a region of low attenuation coefficient within this tumor, while B-mode ultrasound visualizes the tumor as a cluster of high amplitude echoes. The diagnosis of a renal angiomylipoma may be suspected preoperatively when this combination of findings is present with computerized tomography and ultrasound.", "PMID": 439268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4579", "title": "Renal cell carcinoma in a horseshoe kidney associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease.", "content": "The first case of a renal cell carcinoma in a horseshoe kidney associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease is reported. Manifestations of the disease process as well as important points concerning the urological care of these patients are discussed.", "contents": "Renal cell carcinoma in a horseshoe kidney associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease. The first case of a renal cell carcinoma in a horseshoe kidney associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease is reported. Manifestations of the disease process as well as important points concerning the urological care of these patients are discussed.", "PMID": 439269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4580", "title": "Primary carcinoma in situ of the ureter and renal pelvis.", "content": "Primary carcinoma in situ of the ureter or renal pelvis is rare. We describe 3 patients, each of whom had a different mode of presentation. When malignant cells in the urine from the upper urinary tract are associated with urographic evidence of an appropriate lesion, aggressive surgical therapy is indicated. In the absence of such a urographic abnormality patients with positive cytologic examinations should be followed closely because the exfoliated cells usually are from poorly differentiated neoplasms.", "contents": "Primary carcinoma in situ of the ureter and renal pelvis. Primary carcinoma in situ of the ureter or renal pelvis is rare. We describe 3 patients, each of whom had a different mode of presentation. When malignant cells in the urine from the upper urinary tract are associated with urographic evidence of an appropriate lesion, aggressive surgical therapy is indicated. In the absence of such a urographic abnormality patients with positive cytologic examinations should be followed closely because the exfoliated cells usually are from poorly differentiated neoplasms.", "PMID": 439270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4581", "title": "Severe mannitol-induced hyponatremia complicating transurethral prostatic resection.", "content": "A case is presented in which the absorption of mannitol irrigation solution across prostatic veins resulted in severe hyponatremia in a patient undergoing transurethral prostatic resection. Since hyposmolality of the extracellular fluid was not seen because of the presence of mannitol the patient was asymptomatic despite a rapid decrease in the serum sodium concentration to 99 mEq./l. The importance of distinguishing dilutional hyponatremia from hyponatremia with normal or elevated osmolality is discussed.", "contents": "Severe mannitol-induced hyponatremia complicating transurethral prostatic resection. A case is presented in which the absorption of mannitol irrigation solution across prostatic veins resulted in severe hyponatremia in a patient undergoing transurethral prostatic resection. Since hyposmolality of the extracellular fluid was not seen because of the presence of mannitol the patient was asymptomatic despite a rapid decrease in the serum sodium concentration to 99 mEq./l. The importance of distinguishing dilutional hyponatremia from hyponatremia with normal or elevated osmolality is discussed.", "PMID": 439271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4582", "title": "The pneumococcal vaccine. Immunization at a crossroad.", "content": "A new polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine (Pneumovax) was released in February 1978. In an effort to chronicle the dissemination of the vaccine to high-risk patients, we prospectively followed up a single clinic population and conducted a telephone survey of three neighborhood health centers, two private practices, and a university hematology clinic. Three months after notification of the vaccine arrival, physicians in the prospectively chronicled clinic had immunized six of 12 patients with sickle cell disease, five of 80 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, three of 225 patients with diabetes, and three of 45 patients older than 80 years. Immunization policy in the other clinics surveyed varied greatly. As an attempt to curb low-prevalence, high-severity illness in a small target population, the pneumococcal vaccine presents a new set of problems in the systematic implementation of an immunization.", "contents": "The pneumococcal vaccine. Immunization at a crossroad. A new polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine (Pneumovax) was released in February 1978. In an effort to chronicle the dissemination of the vaccine to high-risk patients, we prospectively followed up a single clinic population and conducted a telephone survey of three neighborhood health centers, two private practices, and a university hematology clinic. Three months after notification of the vaccine arrival, physicians in the prospectively chronicled clinic had immunized six of 12 patients with sickle cell disease, five of 80 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, three of 225 patients with diabetes, and three of 45 patients older than 80 years. Immunization policy in the other clinics surveyed varied greatly. As an attempt to curb low-prevalence, high-severity illness in a small target population, the pneumococcal vaccine presents a new set of problems in the systematic implementation of an immunization.", "PMID": 439296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4583", "title": "Antibiotic control in a municipal hospital.", "content": "The choice of an antibiotic for a patient is often a difficult decision. The clinician must contend with a bewildering variety of bacteria and use a number of expensive and toxic antimicrobial agents judiciously. To deal with the problems of excessive and inappropriate use, the medical staff of Coney Island Hospital established compulsory, prospective antibiotic control. Two years after initiation of this program, we analyzed changes in sensitivity patterns of hospital flora, physicians' prescribing habits and antibiotic use. A trend toward increasing resistance on the part of some Gram-negative isolates to certain beta-lactam antibiotics was noted. Antibiotic costs decreased an average of 38%, while prescribing skills improved.", "contents": "Antibiotic control in a municipal hospital. The choice of an antibiotic for a patient is often a difficult decision. The clinician must contend with a bewildering variety of bacteria and use a number of expensive and toxic antimicrobial agents judiciously. To deal with the problems of excessive and inappropriate use, the medical staff of Coney Island Hospital established compulsory, prospective antibiotic control. Two years after initiation of this program, we analyzed changes in sensitivity patterns of hospital flora, physicians' prescribing habits and antibiotic use. A trend toward increasing resistance on the part of some Gram-negative isolates to certain beta-lactam antibiotics was noted. Antibiotic costs decreased an average of 38%, while prescribing skills improved.", "PMID": 439297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4584", "title": "Satellite streptococci. A major cause of \"negative\" blood cultures in bacterial endocarditis?", "content": "In three of the 20 patients with bacterial endocarditis in our institution since 1975, satellite streptococci were recovered from the blood stream (15%). These organisms do not grow under usual laboratory conditions and may only be demonstrable after fortuitous contamination of the media. Clinicians and microbiologists must be alert to the possibility of satellite streptococci in patients with suspected bacterial endocarditis, and measures should be instituted to identify the organism.", "contents": "Satellite streptococci. A major cause of \"negative\" blood cultures in bacterial endocarditis? In three of the 20 patients with bacterial endocarditis in our institution since 1975, satellite streptococci were recovered from the blood stream (15%). These organisms do not grow under usual laboratory conditions and may only be demonstrable after fortuitous contamination of the media. Clinicians and microbiologists must be alert to the possibility of satellite streptococci in patients with suspected bacterial endocarditis, and measures should be instituted to identify the organism.", "PMID": 439298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4585", "title": "Timolol in the treatment of open angle glaucoma.", "content": "Timolol maleate is the first beta-adrenergic-blocking drug available in the United States for topical therapy in open angle glaucoma. It may be used alone for initial therapy in selected patients or with other antiglaucoma drugs in patients requiring additional control. It should be tried, before resorting to surgery, when traditional maximal medical therapy has failed or is not tolerated. Timolol has few local side effects, but since it is absorbed, it may produce systemic reactions similar to those induced by orally administered propranolol hydrochloride. Timolol appears to be an important advance in antiglaucoma therapy, although further experience is needed to determine whether its long-term usefulness will be limited by the development of tolerance or the appearance of unexpected side effects.", "contents": "Timolol in the treatment of open angle glaucoma. Timolol maleate is the first beta-adrenergic-blocking drug available in the United States for topical therapy in open angle glaucoma. It may be used alone for initial therapy in selected patients or with other antiglaucoma drugs in patients requiring additional control. It should be tried, before resorting to surgery, when traditional maximal medical therapy has failed or is not tolerated. Timolol has few local side effects, but since it is absorbed, it may produce systemic reactions similar to those induced by orally administered propranolol hydrochloride. Timolol appears to be an important advance in antiglaucoma therapy, although further experience is needed to determine whether its long-term usefulness will be limited by the development of tolerance or the appearance of unexpected side effects.", "PMID": 439303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4586", "title": "Gentamicin and ticarcillin serum levels.", "content": "Ticarcillin disodium and gentamicin sulfate serum levels were measured one and five hours after intravenous administration. Patients receiving ticarcillin plus gentamicin had a significantly lower mean gentamicin level one and five hours after antibiotic administration than patients receiving cephalothin sodium plus gentamicin. The serum ticarcillin levels were significantly lower five hours after administration in patients receiving ticarcillin plus gentamicin than in those receiving ticarcillin plus cephalothin. Low antibiotic serum levels in patients with serious infections treated with these antibiotic combinations are of potential clinical significance; therefore, to ensure an optimal antimicrobial therapy, it is advisable to determine the drug serum concentrations (especially aminoglycoside) even in patients with normal renal function when treating with combinations of antimicrobials.", "contents": "Gentamicin and ticarcillin serum levels. Ticarcillin disodium and gentamicin sulfate serum levels were measured one and five hours after intravenous administration. Patients receiving ticarcillin plus gentamicin had a significantly lower mean gentamicin level one and five hours after antibiotic administration than patients receiving cephalothin sodium plus gentamicin. The serum ticarcillin levels were significantly lower five hours after administration in patients receiving ticarcillin plus gentamicin than in those receiving ticarcillin plus cephalothin. Low antibiotic serum levels in patients with serious infections treated with these antibiotic combinations are of potential clinical significance; therefore, to ensure an optimal antimicrobial therapy, it is advisable to determine the drug serum concentrations (especially aminoglycoside) even in patients with normal renal function when treating with combinations of antimicrobials.", "PMID": 439317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4587", "title": "Adolescent suicide attempts.", "content": "The conditions of 40 adolescents in treatment following a suicide attempt were diagnosed according to the multiaxial classification of the American Psychiatric Association's proposed third edition of the diagnostic and statistical manual. All were psychiatrically ill before the suicide attempt. The most common diagnoses were those of depressive disorders and substance abuse disorders on the clinical psychiatric syndrome axis and borderline personality disorder on the personality and developmental disorder axis. The typical patient was a polydrug-abusing girl with a borderline personality disorder and a superimposed major depressive disorder. The most prominent personality characteristics associated with suicide attempts by these adolescents were a tendency to react severely to a loss, poorly controlled rage, and impulsivity. Suicide attempts by adolescents should be taken seriously by the physician and necessitate a thorough search for a possible underlying pathological condition.", "contents": "Adolescent suicide attempts. The conditions of 40 adolescents in treatment following a suicide attempt were diagnosed according to the multiaxial classification of the American Psychiatric Association's proposed third edition of the diagnostic and statistical manual. All were psychiatrically ill before the suicide attempt. The most common diagnoses were those of depressive disorders and substance abuse disorders on the clinical psychiatric syndrome axis and borderline personality disorder on the personality and developmental disorder axis. The typical patient was a polydrug-abusing girl with a borderline personality disorder and a superimposed major depressive disorder. The most prominent personality characteristics associated with suicide attempts by these adolescents were a tendency to react severely to a loss, poorly controlled rage, and impulsivity. Suicide attempts by adolescents should be taken seriously by the physician and necessitate a thorough search for a possible underlying pathological condition.", "PMID": 439318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4588", "title": "Heparin-induced spinal fractures.", "content": "A 27-year-old woman received heparin sodium for 152 days because of antepartum iliofemoral thrombophlebitis. At the end of this time, spinal osteoporosis and multiple vertebral fractures became clinically evident and were attributed to the prolonged administration of heparin. Previously reported cases of \"heparin osteoporosis\" were reviewed. The significance of the daily dose of heparin and the duration of therapy are reemphasized. This therapeutic complication and the management of antepartum iliofemoral thrombophlebitis are discussed. Prolonged administration of heparin in daily doses exceeding 10,000 units is potentially hazardous.", "contents": "Heparin-induced spinal fractures. A 27-year-old woman received heparin sodium for 152 days because of antepartum iliofemoral thrombophlebitis. At the end of this time, spinal osteoporosis and multiple vertebral fractures became clinically evident and were attributed to the prolonged administration of heparin. Previously reported cases of \"heparin osteoporosis\" were reviewed. The significance of the daily dose of heparin and the duration of therapy are reemphasized. This therapeutic complication and the management of antepartum iliofemoral thrombophlebitis are discussed. Prolonged administration of heparin in daily doses exceeding 10,000 units is potentially hazardous.", "PMID": 439319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4589", "title": "Death caused by recreational cocaine use.", "content": "Sixty-eight deaths associated with the recreational use of illicit cocaine were investigated by the Medical Examiner's Office of Dade County in Florida. Most fatalities occurred since 1975. Although 29 involved the use of other drugs (usually heroin), 24 persons died directly of the toxic effects of cocaine. Respiratory collapse and death occurred rapidly after the intravenous injection of cocaine. Oral or nasal ingestion resulted in a symptom-free interval lasting as long as an hour followed suddenly by generalized seizures and death. Toxicological analysis could not causally relate lidocaine hydrochloride or other adulterants to the untoward reactions. The data suggest that the rate of absorption, the peak blood concentration, and the prior use of cocaine all contribute to the possibility of a fatal reaction. Despite current belief, cocaine cannot be considered a safe recreational drug.", "contents": "Death caused by recreational cocaine use. Sixty-eight deaths associated with the recreational use of illicit cocaine were investigated by the Medical Examiner's Office of Dade County in Florida. Most fatalities occurred since 1975. Although 29 involved the use of other drugs (usually heroin), 24 persons died directly of the toxic effects of cocaine. Respiratory collapse and death occurred rapidly after the intravenous injection of cocaine. Oral or nasal ingestion resulted in a symptom-free interval lasting as long as an hour followed suddenly by generalized seizures and death. Toxicological analysis could not causally relate lidocaine hydrochloride or other adulterants to the untoward reactions. The data suggest that the rate of absorption, the peak blood concentration, and the prior use of cocaine all contribute to the possibility of a fatal reaction. Despite current belief, cocaine cannot be considered a safe recreational drug.", "PMID": 439335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4590", "title": "How ominous is an abnormal scan in bronchogenic carcinoma?", "content": "Bone, brain, and liver radioisotope scans as prognostic indicators were studied in a series of 162 patients with primary bronchogenic carcinoma. One or more scans positive for metastasis reliably predicted death in less than six months. An abnormal bone scan was most significant (P less than .001). Reliability in predicting less than one year's survival in abnormal liver and brain scans was P less than .05 for both. Patients with two normal scans were found to have a 50% six-month survival expectation. Brain scans added little information, as they would have predicted a different prognosis for only three of 114 patients who received them.", "contents": "How ominous is an abnormal scan in bronchogenic carcinoma? Bone, brain, and liver radioisotope scans as prognostic indicators were studied in a series of 162 patients with primary bronchogenic carcinoma. One or more scans positive for metastasis reliably predicted death in less than six months. An abnormal bone scan was most significant (P less than .001). Reliability in predicting less than one year's survival in abnormal liver and brain scans was P less than .05 for both. Patients with two normal scans were found to have a 50% six-month survival expectation. Brain scans added little information, as they would have predicted a different prognosis for only three of 114 patients who received them.", "PMID": 439336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4591", "title": "Behavioral factors and urinary tract infection.", "content": "Voiding and sexual habits of 84 female university students with a history of recurrent urinary infection were compared with those of a control group. There was one highly significant difference between the two groups: 61% of the patients but only 11% of the controls gave a history of regular voluntary deferral of micturition for periods of one hour to longer than six hours. Sexual practices among patients and controls were remarkably similar. A behavioral regimen stressing regular, complete bladder emptying was shown to be effective in preventing reinfection in the patient group. Voluntary urinary retention may play a pathogenic role in women with recurrent urinary tract infection, and its correction may play an important part in the management of urinary tract infection.", "contents": "Behavioral factors and urinary tract infection. Voiding and sexual habits of 84 female university students with a history of recurrent urinary infection were compared with those of a control group. There was one highly significant difference between the two groups: 61% of the patients but only 11% of the controls gave a history of regular voluntary deferral of micturition for periods of one hour to longer than six hours. Sexual practices among patients and controls were remarkably similar. A behavioral regimen stressing regular, complete bladder emptying was shown to be effective in preventing reinfection in the patient group. Voluntary urinary retention may play a pathogenic role in women with recurrent urinary tract infection, and its correction may play an important part in the management of urinary tract infection.", "PMID": 439337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4592", "title": "Therapeutic use of albumin.", "content": "Increasing use of normal human serum albumin may be contributing to the rising cost of medical care. To investigate whether albumin is extensively overused or abused, a study of the quality of albumin use was conducted in a Veterans Administration Hospital. Specific criteria for appropriate use were developed using guidelines defined at a national symposium. A review of use during a three-month period showed that surgery patients received 91% of the albumin administered during that period; of the total amount administered, 41% was used inappropriately; the decision to administer albumin to patients undergoing surgery appeared to be correct only 29% of the time; and an estimated $40,000 was spent on inappropriately used albumin at this hospital in 1977.", "contents": "Therapeutic use of albumin. Increasing use of normal human serum albumin may be contributing to the rising cost of medical care. To investigate whether albumin is extensively overused or abused, a study of the quality of albumin use was conducted in a Veterans Administration Hospital. Specific criteria for appropriate use were developed using guidelines defined at a national symposium. A review of use during a three-month period showed that surgery patients received 91% of the albumin administered during that period; of the total amount administered, 41% was used inappropriately; the decision to administer albumin to patients undergoing surgery appeared to be correct only 29% of the time; and an estimated $40,000 was spent on inappropriately used albumin at this hospital in 1977.", "PMID": 439338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4593", "title": "Monitoring tricyclic antidepressant plasma concentrations.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of tricyclic antidepressants were monitored during treatment of 126 patients. Noncompliance in taking medication was suspected in 19 patients because of unusually low plasma concentrations in relation to the presumed dose. Determinations of plasma concentrations may also be useful for detecting inadequate treatment as judged by levels below the presumed therapeutic range. Attempts to correlate plasma concentrations with clinical response to amitriptyline hydrochloride and nortriptyline hydrochloride failed, probably because of the heterogeneity of depressive syndromes being treated. Plasma concentrations were correlated highly with dose in the case of amitriptyline, less so in the case of other drugs. Amitriptyline and imipramine hydrochloride generally produced plasma concentrations of the parent drug and metabolite higher in nanograms per milliliter than was the daily dose in milligrams; nortriptyline and desipramine hydrochloride did the opposite.", "contents": "Monitoring tricyclic antidepressant plasma concentrations. Plasma concentrations of tricyclic antidepressants were monitored during treatment of 126 patients. Noncompliance in taking medication was suspected in 19 patients because of unusually low plasma concentrations in relation to the presumed dose. Determinations of plasma concentrations may also be useful for detecting inadequate treatment as judged by levels below the presumed therapeutic range. Attempts to correlate plasma concentrations with clinical response to amitriptyline hydrochloride and nortriptyline hydrochloride failed, probably because of the heterogeneity of depressive syndromes being treated. Plasma concentrations were correlated highly with dose in the case of amitriptyline, less so in the case of other drugs. Amitriptyline and imipramine hydrochloride generally produced plasma concentrations of the parent drug and metabolite higher in nanograms per milliliter than was the daily dose in milligrams; nortriptyline and desipramine hydrochloride did the opposite.", "PMID": 439339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4594", "title": "Patient behavior for blood pressure control. Guidelines for professionals.", "content": "Behaviors critical to hypertensive patients' achieving therapeutic control and assuming active responsibility for their own care were defined by an interdisciplinary group brought together by the National High Blood Pressure Education Program. The report focused on the achievement and maintenance of long-term control through drug therapy and concentrated on the patient-physician interaction as a critical factor. The basic hypothesis that active participation by the patient favors successful management of hypertension identifies the physician, the prime diagnostician and initiator of the subsequent interaction, as a promotor of that important collaboration. The working group views the patient as the decision-maker and problemsolver, with the professional functioning as advisor and guide. This synthesis of available theory and practice in therapy adherence includes knowledge, attitudes, and skills defined under four major behaviors: making the decision for control, taking medication, monitoring progress, and problem solving.", "contents": "Patient behavior for blood pressure control. Guidelines for professionals. Behaviors critical to hypertensive patients' achieving therapeutic control and assuming active responsibility for their own care were defined by an interdisciplinary group brought together by the National High Blood Pressure Education Program. The report focused on the achievement and maintenance of long-term control through drug therapy and concentrated on the patient-physician interaction as a critical factor. The basic hypothesis that active participation by the patient favors successful management of hypertension identifies the physician, the prime diagnostician and initiator of the subsequent interaction, as a promotor of that important collaboration. The working group views the patient as the decision-maker and problemsolver, with the professional functioning as advisor and guide. This synthesis of available theory and practice in therapy adherence includes knowledge, attitudes, and skills defined under four major behaviors: making the decision for control, taking medication, monitoring progress, and problem solving.", "PMID": 439340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4595", "title": "Multiple cardiovascular injuries and motor vehicle accidents.", "content": "A patient sustained blunt chest trauma in a motor vehicle accident. Cardiovascular trauma was initially obscured by more obvious orthopedic injuries. Thoracic aortic transection with false aneurysm formation was discovered incidentally during cardiac catheterization for traumatic tricuspid insufficiency. Successful repair of both lesions was subseqeuntly performed. This case demonstrates the difficulty in recognizing cardiovascular trauma in survivors of motor vehicle accidents and emphasizes the need for an aggressive diagnostic approach with consideration of coexisting injuries in patients who have sustained blunt chest trauma.", "contents": "Multiple cardiovascular injuries and motor vehicle accidents. A patient sustained blunt chest trauma in a motor vehicle accident. Cardiovascular trauma was initially obscured by more obvious orthopedic injuries. Thoracic aortic transection with false aneurysm formation was discovered incidentally during cardiac catheterization for traumatic tricuspid insufficiency. Successful repair of both lesions was subseqeuntly performed. This case demonstrates the difficulty in recognizing cardiovascular trauma in survivors of motor vehicle accidents and emphasizes the need for an aggressive diagnostic approach with consideration of coexisting injuries in patients who have sustained blunt chest trauma.", "PMID": 439341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4596", "title": "Erectile impotence treated with an implantable, inflatable prosthesis. Five years of clinical experience.", "content": "Erectile impotence can now be treated with a device that mimics a natural erection. Between 1973 and 1977, we implanted an inflatable prosthesis in 245 men (235 with organic impotence and ten with psychogenic impotence). Of these, 234 are able to use the device to their satisfaction; no failures have occurred in the 152 cases treated in 1976 and 1977. The success of this treatment rests in part on the careful selection of patients by a team--a urologist, a sleep researcher, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist--each evaluating the patient independently. Our experience suggest that erectile impotence may be more common than generally believed and that impotence from organic causes may account for a greater percentage of cases than formerly thought.", "contents": "Erectile impotence treated with an implantable, inflatable prosthesis. Five years of clinical experience. Erectile impotence can now be treated with a device that mimics a natural erection. Between 1973 and 1977, we implanted an inflatable prosthesis in 245 men (235 with organic impotence and ten with psychogenic impotence). Of these, 234 are able to use the device to their satisfaction; no failures have occurred in the 152 cases treated in 1976 and 1977. The success of this treatment rests in part on the careful selection of patients by a team--a urologist, a sleep researcher, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist--each evaluating the patient independently. Our experience suggest that erectile impotence may be more common than generally believed and that impotence from organic causes may account for a greater percentage of cases than formerly thought.", "PMID": 439356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4597", "title": "Bronchodilator effects on gastric acid secretion.", "content": "Nine patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were given oral aminophylline, intravenous aminophylline, and various inhaled and oral adrenergic bronchodilators to determine the effect of these agents on gastric acid secretion and gastrin release. Inhaled epinephrine hydrochloride resulted in an increase in basal acid output of borderline significance (.05 less than P less than .10). Oral aminophylline caused a significant increase in basal acid output from 2.43 to 4.06 mEq (P less than .05). Intravenous aminophylline also caused a significant increase in basal acid output from 0.66 to 2.19 mEq (P less than .01). There were no statistically significant changes in serum gastrin levels after administration of any of the bronchodilators. Aminophylline should be used with caution, if at all, in patients with peptic ulcer disease. In these patients, a beta agonist should be used for initial therapy. If the addition of aminophylline is necessary, antacids should be given.", "contents": "Bronchodilator effects on gastric acid secretion. Nine patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were given oral aminophylline, intravenous aminophylline, and various inhaled and oral adrenergic bronchodilators to determine the effect of these agents on gastric acid secretion and gastrin release. Inhaled epinephrine hydrochloride resulted in an increase in basal acid output of borderline significance (.05 less than P less than .10). Oral aminophylline caused a significant increase in basal acid output from 2.43 to 4.06 mEq (P less than .05). Intravenous aminophylline also caused a significant increase in basal acid output from 0.66 to 2.19 mEq (P less than .01). There were no statistically significant changes in serum gastrin levels after administration of any of the bronchodilators. Aminophylline should be used with caution, if at all, in patients with peptic ulcer disease. In these patients, a beta agonist should be used for initial therapy. If the addition of aminophylline is necessary, antacids should be given.", "PMID": 439357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4598", "title": "Acute adverse reactions to ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "Three young women with systemic lupus erythematosus who were given ibuprofen for arthritis voluntarily discontinued taking the drug. On reinstitution of therapy, profound hypotension, fever, and headaches developed within hours, without other identifiable cause. A possible relationship to salicylate intolerance was considered. Because of these apparent side effects, we stress caution in the use of ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly if there is any history of salicylate intolerance.", "contents": "Acute adverse reactions to ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus. Three young women with systemic lupus erythematosus who were given ibuprofen for arthritis voluntarily discontinued taking the drug. On reinstitution of therapy, profound hypotension, fever, and headaches developed within hours, without other identifiable cause. A possible relationship to salicylate intolerance was considered. Because of these apparent side effects, we stress caution in the use of ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly if there is any history of salicylate intolerance.", "PMID": 439358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4599", "title": "The dissemination of new medical information.", "content": "Dissemination of new medical information to the practicing physician is a complex and often faulty process. To examine the magnitude of this problem, we surveyed primary care physicians to determine their knowledge of the results of the cooperative trial of photocoagulation in diabetic retinopathy. Despite the acknowledge relevance to their practice, only 28% (38/137) of family physicians and 46% (42/91) of internists were aware of the study results (P less than .001). Respondents were asked to manage two patient problems involving diabetic retinopathy. Only 33% (75/229) handled both correctly, although the retinopathy photocoagulation study had been published 18 months earlier. These findings indicate that results from clinical trials may not be disseminated to practicing physicians and, therefore, not incorporated into practice. Greater attention should be directed toward making findings from clinical trials available to practitioners.", "contents": "The dissemination of new medical information. Dissemination of new medical information to the practicing physician is a complex and often faulty process. To examine the magnitude of this problem, we surveyed primary care physicians to determine their knowledge of the results of the cooperative trial of photocoagulation in diabetic retinopathy. Despite the acknowledge relevance to their practice, only 28% (38/137) of family physicians and 46% (42/91) of internists were aware of the study results (P less than .001). Respondents were asked to manage two patient problems involving diabetic retinopathy. Only 33% (75/229) handled both correctly, although the retinopathy photocoagulation study had been published 18 months earlier. These findings indicate that results from clinical trials may not be disseminated to practicing physicians and, therefore, not incorporated into practice. Greater attention should be directed toward making findings from clinical trials available to practitioners.", "PMID": 439359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4600", "title": "Human lymphocyte-tumor cell interaction. A scanning electron microscopy study.", "content": "Cells from the metastatic chest wall lesions of a patient with adenocarcinoma of the breast were incubated with autologous lymphocytes. Their interactions were observed in the scanning electron microscope. The lymphocytes first surrounded the cancer cells; cancer cells then were destroyed while the lymphocytes in contact with them lost their microvilli. The heterologous human lymphocytes being used as controls surrounded the tumor cells but did not destroy them. Lymphocytes in the presence of tumor cells showed interconnections through cytoplasmic bridging.", "contents": "Human lymphocyte-tumor cell interaction. A scanning electron microscopy study. Cells from the metastatic chest wall lesions of a patient with adenocarcinoma of the breast were incubated with autologous lymphocytes. Their interactions were observed in the scanning electron microscope. The lymphocytes first surrounded the cancer cells; cancer cells then were destroyed while the lymphocytes in contact with them lost their microvilli. The heterologous human lymphocytes being used as controls surrounded the tumor cells but did not destroy them. Lymphocytes in the presence of tumor cells showed interconnections through cytoplasmic bridging.", "PMID": 439360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4601", "title": "Colonic ileus. Indication for prompt decompression.", "content": "Eleven cases of colonic ileus were associated with a variety of clinical conditions. The dominant roentgenographic finding was severe cecal dilation. Its recognition and prompt management are required to prevent possible disastrous perforation.", "contents": "Colonic ileus. Indication for prompt decompression. Eleven cases of colonic ileus were associated with a variety of clinical conditions. The dominant roentgenographic finding was severe cecal dilation. Its recognition and prompt management are required to prevent possible disastrous perforation.", "PMID": 439361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4602", "title": "[Effect of fosmocyin-Na on reproductive performance of rats and rabbits. I. Teratogenicity test (author's transl)].", "content": "The teratogenicity study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats and New Zealand white rabbits. Rats were treated intraperitoneally at dose levels of 125, 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day from day 7 to day 17 of gestation, and rabbits were treated intravenously at dose levels of 80, 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg/day from day 6 to day 18 of gestation. In the case of rats, two-thirds of pregnant mothers in each group was sacrificed on day 20 of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. The remaining mothers were allowed to deliver naturally, and then their offsprings were examined for postnatal development. In the case of rabbits, all pregnant mothers were sacrificed on day 29 of gestation and their fetuses were examined. Body weight of rat mothers during gestation were decreased and 4 mothers were dead until day 20 of gestation in the maximum dose. In this dose, foetal toxicity was recognized too. However, external, visceral and skeletal anomalies related with FOM-Na treatment were not observed in all groups. No effect on development of offsprings was observed. No effect of treatment of FOM-Na to rabbits was found except foetal body weight was slightly decreased in the maximum dose.", "contents": "[Effect of fosmocyin-Na on reproductive performance of rats and rabbits. I. Teratogenicity test (author's transl)]. The teratogenicity study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats and New Zealand white rabbits. Rats were treated intraperitoneally at dose levels of 125, 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day from day 7 to day 17 of gestation, and rabbits were treated intravenously at dose levels of 80, 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg/day from day 6 to day 18 of gestation. In the case of rats, two-thirds of pregnant mothers in each group was sacrificed on day 20 of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. The remaining mothers were allowed to deliver naturally, and then their offsprings were examined for postnatal development. In the case of rabbits, all pregnant mothers were sacrificed on day 29 of gestation and their fetuses were examined. Body weight of rat mothers during gestation were decreased and 4 mothers were dead until day 20 of gestation in the maximum dose. In this dose, foetal toxicity was recognized too. However, external, visceral and skeletal anomalies related with FOM-Na treatment were not observed in all groups. No effect on development of offsprings was observed. No effect of treatment of FOM-Na to rabbits was found except foetal body weight was slightly decreased in the maximum dose.", "PMID": 439386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4603", "title": "[Effect of fosfomycin-Na on reproductive performance of rats. II. Fertility test (author's transl)].", "content": "The fertility study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats. FOM-Na was administered intraperitoneally at dose levels of 125, 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day. The male rats were continuously treated with FOM-Na from 63 days before mating and the females were treated from 14 days before mating. The males and females were treated through the mating period and then the pregnant rats were treated until 7 days of gestation. All pregnant rats were sacrificed on day 20 of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. Mean body weight of males decreased and 6 males and 3 females died in the maximum dose. However, no significant differences were found between treated groups and the control with regard to fertility rate and pregnant rate. External, visceral and skeletal anomalies related with FOM-Na treatment were not observed. In this experiment, no effects of FOM-Na for reproductive performance in rats were observed.", "contents": "[Effect of fosfomycin-Na on reproductive performance of rats. II. Fertility test (author's transl)]. The fertility study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats. FOM-Na was administered intraperitoneally at dose levels of 125, 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day. The male rats were continuously treated with FOM-Na from 63 days before mating and the females were treated from 14 days before mating. The males and females were treated through the mating period and then the pregnant rats were treated until 7 days of gestation. All pregnant rats were sacrificed on day 20 of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. Mean body weight of males decreased and 6 males and 3 females died in the maximum dose. However, no significant differences were found between treated groups and the control with regard to fertility rate and pregnant rate. External, visceral and skeletal anomalies related with FOM-Na treatment were not observed. In this experiment, no effects of FOM-Na for reproductive performance in rats were observed.", "PMID": 439387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4604", "title": "[Effect of fosfomycin-Na on reproductive performance of rats. III. Peri- and post-natal examination (author's transl)].", "content": "The peri- and post-natal study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats. FOM-Na was administered intraperitoneally at dose levels of 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day from day 14 of gestation to day 21 after delivery. It could be concluded that delivery rate in the 750 and 1,500 mg/kg groups decreased, but no influence of FOM-Na was found on postnatal development of offspring (F1) and neonate (F2) without maximum dose.", "contents": "[Effect of fosfomycin-Na on reproductive performance of rats. III. Peri- and post-natal examination (author's transl)]. The peri- and post-natal study of fosfomycin-Na (FOM-Na) was undertaken in Wistar rats. FOM-Na was administered intraperitoneally at dose levels of 250, 750 and 1,500 mg/kg/day from day 14 of gestation to day 21 after delivery. It could be concluded that delivery rate in the 750 and 1,500 mg/kg groups decreased, but no influence of FOM-Na was found on postnatal development of offspring (F1) and neonate (F2) without maximum dose.", "PMID": 439388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4605", "title": "[General pharmacological studies on fosfomycin sodium (author's transl)].", "content": "The pharmacological effects of fosfomycin sodium, a new antibiotic agent, were studied on central nervous system, neuromuscular junction, isolated smooth muscles, blood coagulation, red blood cell resistance, body temperature, permeability of skin vessels and IgG and IgE antibody formation in laboratory animals. Fosfomycin sodium inhibited activities on the isolated smooth muscles, elevated body temperature, and increased permeability of skin vessels. Any of these actions, however, was noticeable only when it was administered in higher doses. Except for these above effects, fosfomycin sodium did not show any actions. Consequently, it can be concluded that fosfomycin sodium has no specific pharmacological actions.", "contents": "[General pharmacological studies on fosfomycin sodium (author's transl)]. The pharmacological effects of fosfomycin sodium, a new antibiotic agent, were studied on central nervous system, neuromuscular junction, isolated smooth muscles, blood coagulation, red blood cell resistance, body temperature, permeability of skin vessels and IgG and IgE antibody formation in laboratory animals. Fosfomycin sodium inhibited activities on the isolated smooth muscles, elevated body temperature, and increased permeability of skin vessels. Any of these actions, however, was noticeable only when it was administered in higher doses. Except for these above effects, fosfomycin sodium did not show any actions. Consequently, it can be concluded that fosfomycin sodium has no specific pharmacological actions.", "PMID": 439389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4606", "title": "[Bacteriological and clinical studies on metronidazole in Bacteroides fragilis infections (author's transl)].", "content": "The antimicrobial activity of 24 Bacteroides fragilis, 13 Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and 5 Bacteroides vulgatus, all of which were recent clinical isolates, was determined by the agar dilution technique. These three species had similar susceptibility patterns, but the B. thetaiotaomicron strains were generally less susceptible than the B. fragilis strains. Clindamycin was very active against 81% of the Bacteroides strains at 3.1 mcg/ml of less while 21% of the Bacteroides strains had MICs of 100 mcg/ml or above. Metronidazole was active against all Bacteroides strains at 1.6 mcg/ml or less. The patients with decubitus ulcers and B. fragilis septicemia, who responded satisfactorily to the combination of metronidazole and tobramycin, were presented.", "contents": "[Bacteriological and clinical studies on metronidazole in Bacteroides fragilis infections (author's transl)]. The antimicrobial activity of 24 Bacteroides fragilis, 13 Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and 5 Bacteroides vulgatus, all of which were recent clinical isolates, was determined by the agar dilution technique. These three species had similar susceptibility patterns, but the B. thetaiotaomicron strains were generally less susceptible than the B. fragilis strains. Clindamycin was very active against 81% of the Bacteroides strains at 3.1 mcg/ml of less while 21% of the Bacteroides strains had MICs of 100 mcg/ml or above. Metronidazole was active against all Bacteroides strains at 1.6 mcg/ml or less. The patients with decubitus ulcers and B. fragilis septicemia, who responded satisfactorily to the combination of metronidazole and tobramycin, were presented.", "PMID": 439390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4607", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics and clinical studies on CS-1170 (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors have carried out the pharmacokinetics and clinical studies of CS-1170. The results were as follows; CS-1170 was given by drip infusion for 1 hour dose of 20 mg per kg body weight to 3 children. The maximum blood level was reached at one hour after drip infusion. This blood levels were 38 micrograms/ml, 68 micrograms/ml and 86 micrograms/ml, respectively, (mean 64 micrograms/ml), and level at 2 hours, 11.5 micrograms/ml, 9.4 micrograms/ml, 16 micrograms/ml respectively, (mean 12.3 micrograms/ml), the blood level at 6 hours was not determined. The urinary excretion rates were 94.8 approximately 96.8% up to 6 hours after drip infusion dose of 20 mg per kg body weight. CS-1170 was effective in 7 of 8 cases with pediatric bacterial infections. An ineffective case was a pneumonia due to Serratia marcescens. No side effect was observed except for 2 cases with diarrhea and one case with elevation of GOT and GPT.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics and clinical studies on CS-1170 (author's transl)]. The authors have carried out the pharmacokinetics and clinical studies of CS-1170. The results were as follows; CS-1170 was given by drip infusion for 1 hour dose of 20 mg per kg body weight to 3 children. The maximum blood level was reached at one hour after drip infusion. This blood levels were 38 micrograms/ml, 68 micrograms/ml and 86 micrograms/ml, respectively, (mean 64 micrograms/ml), and level at 2 hours, 11.5 micrograms/ml, 9.4 micrograms/ml, 16 micrograms/ml respectively, (mean 12.3 micrograms/ml), the blood level at 6 hours was not determined. The urinary excretion rates were 94.8 approximately 96.8% up to 6 hours after drip infusion dose of 20 mg per kg body weight. CS-1170 was effective in 7 of 8 cases with pediatric bacterial infections. An ineffective case was a pneumonia due to Serratia marcescens. No side effect was observed except for 2 cases with diarrhea and one case with elevation of GOT and GPT.", "PMID": 439393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4608", "title": "[Fundamental and clinical studies on CS--1170 in pediatric field (author's transl)].", "content": "Fundamental studies and clinical evaluation of CS-1170 were carried out in the field of pediatrics, and the following results were obtained: 1) A high serum concentration of the drug was observed by 30 minutes after the commencement of intravenous drip infusion of 20 and 30 mg/kg, with the peak appearing at the end of the infusion. Serum level of 10.0 micrograms/ml or more was observed even 2 hours after the completion of the drip infusion. 2) The peak of serum concentration appeared at 30 minutes after intravenous injection of 20 mg/kg, and the blood level 4 hours after the injection was 4.3 micrograms/ml or more. 3) Excretion of the drug into the urine by 6 hours after intravenous drip infusion or one-shot injection was 60% or more on the average, with the major portion of the drug in the active state excreted by 4 hours after the administration. 4) Twenty-five children with acute infections (5 types of diseases) were treated with CS-1170 mainly by intravenous drip infusion, and the following clinical results were obtained: The overall clinical effective rate of 96.0% was obtained with the daily dosage of CS-1170 ranging mostly from 50 to 80 mg/kg in the total 25 cases including 7 cases of acute bronchitis (100%), 13 cases of bronchopneumonia (92.3%), 3 cases of acute urinary tract infections (100%), a case each of staphylococal exanthema and lymphadenitis in the neck (100%). 5) Thorough analyses of the liver and kidney functions and the hematological features at the time of, and about 10 days after the administration of CS-1170 in each case so far revealed no abnormality. The drug did not affect the site of injection or the whole body.", "contents": "[Fundamental and clinical studies on CS--1170 in pediatric field (author's transl)]. Fundamental studies and clinical evaluation of CS-1170 were carried out in the field of pediatrics, and the following results were obtained: 1) A high serum concentration of the drug was observed by 30 minutes after the commencement of intravenous drip infusion of 20 and 30 mg/kg, with the peak appearing at the end of the infusion. Serum level of 10.0 micrograms/ml or more was observed even 2 hours after the completion of the drip infusion. 2) The peak of serum concentration appeared at 30 minutes after intravenous injection of 20 mg/kg, and the blood level 4 hours after the injection was 4.3 micrograms/ml or more. 3) Excretion of the drug into the urine by 6 hours after intravenous drip infusion or one-shot injection was 60% or more on the average, with the major portion of the drug in the active state excreted by 4 hours after the administration. 4) Twenty-five children with acute infections (5 types of diseases) were treated with CS-1170 mainly by intravenous drip infusion, and the following clinical results were obtained: The overall clinical effective rate of 96.0% was obtained with the daily dosage of CS-1170 ranging mostly from 50 to 80 mg/kg in the total 25 cases including 7 cases of acute bronchitis (100%), 13 cases of bronchopneumonia (92.3%), 3 cases of acute urinary tract infections (100%), a case each of staphylococal exanthema and lymphadenitis in the neck (100%). 5) Thorough analyses of the liver and kidney functions and the hematological features at the time of, and about 10 days after the administration of CS-1170 in each case so far revealed no abnormality. The drug did not affect the site of injection or the whole body.", "PMID": 439394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4609", "title": "[Clinical study of CS-1170 in children (author's transl)].", "content": "CS-1170 was administered to 9 cases of the pediatric field. The clinical effect was good in 6 cases, fair in 2, and poor in one. The doses ranged from 80 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg, and an intravenous injection of 300 mg/kg was given in only one case. In the poor case, continuous instillation of 100 mg/kg was given. In the 2 fair cases, the patients with septicemia received 80 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg, respectively. There was no improvement in clinical findings, but the bacteria alone disappeared. As side effects, vasalgia due to intravenous injection was observed in 2 cases, but it disappared by the intravenous injection of 500 mg dissolved in 10 ml. No case showed eruption, diarrhea, or acidophilia. GOT or GPT increased in no case either.", "contents": "[Clinical study of CS-1170 in children (author's transl)]. CS-1170 was administered to 9 cases of the pediatric field. The clinical effect was good in 6 cases, fair in 2, and poor in one. The doses ranged from 80 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg, and an intravenous injection of 300 mg/kg was given in only one case. In the poor case, continuous instillation of 100 mg/kg was given. In the 2 fair cases, the patients with septicemia received 80 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg, respectively. There was no improvement in clinical findings, but the bacteria alone disappeared. As side effects, vasalgia due to intravenous injection was observed in 2 cases, but it disappared by the intravenous injection of 500 mg dissolved in 10 ml. No case showed eruption, diarrhea, or acidophilia. GOT or GPT increased in no case either.", "PMID": 439395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4610", "title": "[Clinical evaluation of CS-1170 in pediatric field (author's transl)].", "content": "CS-1170 was used for treatment of 26 children who were diagnosed as bacterial infections, and a response rate of 88% was obtained as the drug was effective in 15 of 17 determinable cases. In our evaluation, daily dosage of 75 approximately 270 mg/kg (100 approximately 200 mg/kg in the majority of the cases) was divided into 4 doses, and administered intravenously by one-shot injection over a 10-minute period. The period of drug administration ranged from 1.5 to 25.5 days, but in most cases it was 3 to 6 days. Elevation of GOT and GPT as a side effect of the drug was seen in one case (3.8%), which was reverted to normal level upon cessation of the drug administration.", "contents": "[Clinical evaluation of CS-1170 in pediatric field (author's transl)]. CS-1170 was used for treatment of 26 children who were diagnosed as bacterial infections, and a response rate of 88% was obtained as the drug was effective in 15 of 17 determinable cases. In our evaluation, daily dosage of 75 approximately 270 mg/kg (100 approximately 200 mg/kg in the majority of the cases) was divided into 4 doses, and administered intravenously by one-shot injection over a 10-minute period. The period of drug administration ranged from 1.5 to 25.5 days, but in most cases it was 3 to 6 days. Elevation of GOT and GPT as a side effect of the drug was seen in one case (3.8%), which was reverted to normal level upon cessation of the drug administration.", "PMID": 439397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4611", "title": "[Clinical effects of CS-1170 on respiratory tract infections. II: Mainly on the use of 2 g piggy bag alone (author's transl)].", "content": "The following results have been obtained in our trial of CS-1170, in 2 g piggy bag, on the respiratory tract infections: 1) CS-1170 was found to be effective in all the cases treated, including 6 cases in which CS-1170 was used alone. The cases treated with CS-1170 included those cases in which no other antibiotics had been used, as well as 5 cases in which other penicillins and cephalosporins were found to be ineffective or not adequately effective. The results indicate the usefulness of CS-1170 in the treatment of the respiratory tract infections. 2) Slight elevation of GOT and GPT was observed in one case as the side effect of CS-1170. No abnormality was found in other laboratory tests. The incidence of side effects of CS-1170 is believed to be not higher than those of other cephalosporins.", "contents": "[Clinical effects of CS-1170 on respiratory tract infections. II: Mainly on the use of 2 g piggy bag alone (author's transl)]. The following results have been obtained in our trial of CS-1170, in 2 g piggy bag, on the respiratory tract infections: 1) CS-1170 was found to be effective in all the cases treated, including 6 cases in which CS-1170 was used alone. The cases treated with CS-1170 included those cases in which no other antibiotics had been used, as well as 5 cases in which other penicillins and cephalosporins were found to be ineffective or not adequately effective. The results indicate the usefulness of CS-1170 in the treatment of the respiratory tract infections. 2) Slight elevation of GOT and GPT was observed in one case as the side effect of CS-1170. No abnormality was found in other laboratory tests. The incidence of side effects of CS-1170 is believed to be not higher than those of other cephalosporins.", "PMID": 439401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4612", "title": "[Laboratory and clinical studies CS-1170 (author's transl)].", "content": "CS-1170 is a new antibiotic, a derivative of cephamycin C. In vitro, 50 strains of E. coli and Klebsiella consisting of gentamicin-sensitive isolated from the blood and gentamicin-resistant strains isolated from the urine were inhibited at concentrations from 0.4 to 12.5 mcg/ml of CS-1170, whereas only 2 strain of Klebsiella isolated from the blood had MIC more than 50 mcg/ml of the antibiotic. Moreover, CS-1170 was significantly more effective than cefazolin and cephalothin against these strains. Ten strains of gentamicin-sensitive Serratia isolated from the blood and the 2 gentamicin-resistant strains were inhibited at concentrations from 3.2 to 50 mcg/ml of CS-1170 and only one strain was resistant to this agent. All tested Serratia were resistant to cefazolin and cephalothin. CS-1170 was not effective against Enterobacter. Three cases of biliary tract infections consisting of 2 cases of cholelithiasis and a case of carcinoma of bile duct were treated with 4 g/day dosage of CS-1170. The remarkable effects were obtained in the two cases with cholelithiasis, whereas a case with the carcinoma was treated not so effectively by administration of CS-1170.", "contents": "[Laboratory and clinical studies CS-1170 (author's transl)]. CS-1170 is a new antibiotic, a derivative of cephamycin C. In vitro, 50 strains of E. coli and Klebsiella consisting of gentamicin-sensitive isolated from the blood and gentamicin-resistant strains isolated from the urine were inhibited at concentrations from 0.4 to 12.5 mcg/ml of CS-1170, whereas only 2 strain of Klebsiella isolated from the blood had MIC more than 50 mcg/ml of the antibiotic. Moreover, CS-1170 was significantly more effective than cefazolin and cephalothin against these strains. Ten strains of gentamicin-sensitive Serratia isolated from the blood and the 2 gentamicin-resistant strains were inhibited at concentrations from 3.2 to 50 mcg/ml of CS-1170 and only one strain was resistant to this agent. All tested Serratia were resistant to cefazolin and cephalothin. CS-1170 was not effective against Enterobacter. Three cases of biliary tract infections consisting of 2 cases of cholelithiasis and a case of carcinoma of bile duct were treated with 4 g/day dosage of CS-1170. The remarkable effects were obtained in the two cases with cholelithiasis, whereas a case with the carcinoma was treated not so effectively by administration of CS-1170.", "PMID": 439400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4613", "title": "[Clinical studies of cefmetazole (author's transl)].", "content": "1. Cefmetazole was administered to 10 patients; 5 acute cholecystitis, 4 acute peritonitis and 1 periproctitis. 2. Cefmetazole was given by drip infusion at a daily dose of 2 to 4 g. 3. Clinical response was excellent in 3 patients, and good in other 7 patients. 4. No clinical adverse effect was recognized except the increase of GOT and GPT in 1 patient.", "contents": "[Clinical studies of cefmetazole (author's transl)]. 1. Cefmetazole was administered to 10 patients; 5 acute cholecystitis, 4 acute peritonitis and 1 periproctitis. 2. Cefmetazole was given by drip infusion at a daily dose of 2 to 4 g. 3. Clinical response was excellent in 3 patients, and good in other 7 patients. 4. No clinical adverse effect was recognized except the increase of GOT and GPT in 1 patient.", "PMID": 439402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4614", "title": "[Experience with CS-1170 in gynecological infections (author's transl)].", "content": "CS-1170 was used in gynecological cases of infection, and the following satisfactory results were obtained. 1. The drug was markedly effective in 3 of 12 cases, effective in 7, and ineffective in 2, being the efficacy rate 83.3%. 2. It was highly effective even in the cases in which cefazolin (CEZ) and sulbenicillin (SBPC) were ineffective. 3. The results of the bacteriological examinations turned to negative in 7 cases, but continued to be positive in 2, being the bacteriological efficacy rate 77.7%. It is noteworthy that E. coli completely disappeared by the administration of CS-1170 in 2 cases in which CEZ was ineffective. 4. No side effect attributable to CS-1170 administration was observed.", "contents": "[Experience with CS-1170 in gynecological infections (author's transl)]. CS-1170 was used in gynecological cases of infection, and the following satisfactory results were obtained. 1. The drug was markedly effective in 3 of 12 cases, effective in 7, and ineffective in 2, being the efficacy rate 83.3%. 2. It was highly effective even in the cases in which cefazolin (CEZ) and sulbenicillin (SBPC) were ineffective. 3. The results of the bacteriological examinations turned to negative in 7 cases, but continued to be positive in 2, being the bacteriological efficacy rate 77.7%. It is noteworthy that E. coli completely disappeared by the administration of CS-1170 in 2 cases in which CEZ was ineffective. 4. No side effect attributable to CS-1170 administration was observed.", "PMID": 439404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4615", "title": "[The clinical studies about side effects of sodium cefapirin in the stomatic infective diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical effects and side effects of administrating sodium cefapirin to the stomatic infective diseases were examined in twelve cases. The following are the main results: (1) The clinical results of the treatment were noted effective in one case, effective in nine cases and slightly effective in two cases. (2) The results of renal function tests were as follows: After the administration, it was observed that the values of Ccr test decreased in two cases, the values of PSP test decreased in one case, but the BUN values remained within the normal range in all cases. However, in all cases, no significant deviations were observed in the values of each test measured before and after the test. (3) The results of hepatic function tests were as follows. The values of GOT and GPT showed slight decrease in majority cases. However, the difference between pro and post values was within the normal range and no significant deviations were observed. (4) No side effects including drug allergy were observed in every cases.", "contents": "[The clinical studies about side effects of sodium cefapirin in the stomatic infective diseases (author's transl)]. The clinical effects and side effects of administrating sodium cefapirin to the stomatic infective diseases were examined in twelve cases. The following are the main results: (1) The clinical results of the treatment were noted effective in one case, effective in nine cases and slightly effective in two cases. (2) The results of renal function tests were as follows: After the administration, it was observed that the values of Ccr test decreased in two cases, the values of PSP test decreased in one case, but the BUN values remained within the normal range in all cases. However, in all cases, no significant deviations were observed in the values of each test measured before and after the test. (3) The results of hepatic function tests were as follows. The values of GOT and GPT showed slight decrease in majority cases. However, the difference between pro and post values was within the normal range and no significant deviations were observed. (4) No side effects including drug allergy were observed in every cases.", "PMID": 439407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4616", "title": "[Clinical studies on apalcillin treatment for bile duct infections (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical effects of apalcillin (APPC) treatment for 7 patients with bile duct infections were investigated and the following results were obtained. 1) Clinical effectiveness: Of 7 patients treated with APPC, the results were good in 5 cases, fair in 1 case and poor in 1 case. 2) Absorption and excretion of APPC: One g of APPC was administered with one shot intravenously to 4 patients of which 2 were malignant tumor cases and the remaining 2 non tumor cases. A peak of APPC level in serum and bile was 79 microgram/ml and 140 microgram/ml respectively in malignant tumor cases and 96 microgram/ml and 180 microgram/ml respectively in non tumor cases. 3) Side effects of APPC: No significant side effects were observed in 7 patients treated with APPC, except abnormal elevation of S-GOT and S-GPT levels occurred transiently in 2 of 7 cases.", "contents": "[Clinical studies on apalcillin treatment for bile duct infections (author's transl)]. The clinical effects of apalcillin (APPC) treatment for 7 patients with bile duct infections were investigated and the following results were obtained. 1) Clinical effectiveness: Of 7 patients treated with APPC, the results were good in 5 cases, fair in 1 case and poor in 1 case. 2) Absorption and excretion of APPC: One g of APPC was administered with one shot intravenously to 4 patients of which 2 were malignant tumor cases and the remaining 2 non tumor cases. A peak of APPC level in serum and bile was 79 microgram/ml and 140 microgram/ml respectively in malignant tumor cases and 96 microgram/ml and 180 microgram/ml respectively in non tumor cases. 3) Side effects of APPC: No significant side effects were observed in 7 patients treated with APPC, except abnormal elevation of S-GOT and S-GPT levels occurred transiently in 2 of 7 cases.", "PMID": 439408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4617", "title": "Role of thymectomy in the surgical treatment of myasthenia gravis.", "content": "Of the 26 patients with myasthenia gravis undergone thymectomy, 11 cases had either benign or malignant thymoma as judged not only by hitological examination but also by their clinical and operative findings. Age of initial onset ranged from 13 to 64 years old. Fifteen out of 26 (58 per cent) benefited from thymectomy. Duration of the symptom from the onset to the operation and the presence or absence of the thymoma are not related to their outcome. Benign or malignant nature of thymoma should not be determined by histological examination alone but by combined evaluation of clinical and operative findings. Serial studies of serum immunoglobulin levels before and after thymectomy suggested that this disorder could be associated with humoral antibody (IgG). HLA typing of the patients with myasthenia gravis did not indicate the presence of any specific antigens.", "contents": "Role of thymectomy in the surgical treatment of myasthenia gravis. Of the 26 patients with myasthenia gravis undergone thymectomy, 11 cases had either benign or malignant thymoma as judged not only by hitological examination but also by their clinical and operative findings. Age of initial onset ranged from 13 to 64 years old. Fifteen out of 26 (58 per cent) benefited from thymectomy. Duration of the symptom from the onset to the operation and the presence or absence of the thymoma are not related to their outcome. Benign or malignant nature of thymoma should not be determined by histological examination alone but by combined evaluation of clinical and operative findings. Serial studies of serum immunoglobulin levels before and after thymectomy suggested that this disorder could be associated with humoral antibody (IgG). HLA typing of the patients with myasthenia gravis did not indicate the presence of any specific antigens.", "PMID": 439498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4618", "title": "Clinicopathological studies on thyroglossal duct remnant.", "content": "The clinicopathological findings in 48 cases underwent complete surgical excision of epithelial tissue of the thyoglossal duct remnants were reviewed. Simple incision of the cyst does not seem to have any therapeutic value and would be followed frequently by recurrence. The widely used Sistrunk procedure 2,6 surgical excision of the central portion of the hyoid bone together with fibrous tract extending to the base of tongue, seems to be warranted in some cases so long as complete eradication of the epithelial tissue can be made.", "contents": "Clinicopathological studies on thyroglossal duct remnant. The clinicopathological findings in 48 cases underwent complete surgical excision of epithelial tissue of the thyoglossal duct remnants were reviewed. Simple incision of the cyst does not seem to have any therapeutic value and would be followed frequently by recurrence. The widely used Sistrunk procedure 2,6 surgical excision of the central portion of the hyoid bone together with fibrous tract extending to the base of tongue, seems to be warranted in some cases so long as complete eradication of the epithelial tissue can be made.", "PMID": 439499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4619", "title": "Submucosal esophagography: a new method for demonstrating the depth of invasion of esophageal cancer.", "content": "We developed a new method to determine the depth of esophageal cancer invasion prior to surgery. According to this method, a fiberoptic esophagoscope is used to insert a double cannula into the biopsy canal and the submucosal layer is punctured and fixed by the needle at the tip of the inner cannula through which iodized oil fluid is injected into the submucosal layer. After this procedure, plain films of the posterior mediastinum and an esophagogram are taken in at least four different directions at 24 hour, three and seven day intervals. Seventy one esophageal cancer patients were examined with this method in order to determine the depth of invasion, and whether the adventitia was involved. In three cases the method failed due to technical difficulties and in 14 surgical treatment was not indicated. In 50 of the 54 remaining patients who underwent surgery, preoperative results obtained by using this method coincided well with operative findings. Our findings strongly indicate that this method is diagnostically highly accurate in determining the surgical procedure to be used. Furthermore, this method was proven very useful in obtaining a differential diagnosis of the malignancy of submucosal esophageal tumors,", "contents": "Submucosal esophagography: a new method for demonstrating the depth of invasion of esophageal cancer. We developed a new method to determine the depth of esophageal cancer invasion prior to surgery. According to this method, a fiberoptic esophagoscope is used to insert a double cannula into the biopsy canal and the submucosal layer is punctured and fixed by the needle at the tip of the inner cannula through which iodized oil fluid is injected into the submucosal layer. After this procedure, plain films of the posterior mediastinum and an esophagogram are taken in at least four different directions at 24 hour, three and seven day intervals. Seventy one esophageal cancer patients were examined with this method in order to determine the depth of invasion, and whether the adventitia was involved. In three cases the method failed due to technical difficulties and in 14 surgical treatment was not indicated. In 50 of the 54 remaining patients who underwent surgery, preoperative results obtained by using this method coincided well with operative findings. Our findings strongly indicate that this method is diagnostically highly accurate in determining the surgical procedure to be used. Furthermore, this method was proven very useful in obtaining a differential diagnosis of the malignancy of submucosal esophageal tumors,", "PMID": 439500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4620", "title": "Wraparound end-to-end hepaticojejunostomy (Roux-en-Y) for intrahepatic pigment calculi.", "content": "Intrahepatic pigment calculi are frequently found in East Asia and are associated with a considerable morbidity and mortality. The various methods of surgical treatment are unsatisfactory. A wraparound end-to-end hepaticojejunostomy presented may provide an effective and alternative method of treatment.", "contents": "Wraparound end-to-end hepaticojejunostomy (Roux-en-Y) for intrahepatic pigment calculi. Intrahepatic pigment calculi are frequently found in East Asia and are associated with a considerable morbidity and mortality. The various methods of surgical treatment are unsatisfactory. A wraparound end-to-end hepaticojejunostomy presented may provide an effective and alternative method of treatment.", "PMID": 439501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4621", "title": "A radiopharmaceutical in the diagnosis of congenital biliary atresia.", "content": "Diethyl-HIDA, a new hepatobiliary radiopharmaceutical labeled with 99mTc, was used in the preoperative diagnosis of biliary atresia and in the postoperative evaluation of hepatic-porto-enterostomy function. The good results obtained in the four first cases suggest extensive use of the method, with the aim of a more precocious and more attendable diagnosis.", "contents": "A radiopharmaceutical in the diagnosis of congenital biliary atresia. Diethyl-HIDA, a new hepatobiliary radiopharmaceutical labeled with 99mTc, was used in the preoperative diagnosis of biliary atresia and in the postoperative evaluation of hepatic-porto-enterostomy function. The good results obtained in the four first cases suggest extensive use of the method, with the aim of a more precocious and more attendable diagnosis.", "PMID": 439502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4622", "title": "Measurement of local blood flow of the intestine by hydrogen clearance method; experimental study.", "content": "Local blood flow of the bowel wall was measured by hydrogen clearance method both in the muscular and submucosal layers in the mongrel dog, separately and concurrently. A platinum wire electrode with a bare tip of 0.5 mm in length and 0.2 mm in diameter was inserted into the each layer. About 10 per cent hydrogen gas was inhalated directly through the side hole attached to the endotracheal tube for 1-2 minutes and the obtained clearance curves were plotted on the semi-logarithmic scale, which was almost monoexponential. The results obtained were as follows: 1) Mean basal perfusion rate of the muscular layer of the intestine was 0.81-0.92 ml/min/gm, whereas that of the submucosal layer was 1.29-1.31 ml/min/gm, respectively. There was little difference of perfusion rates between the small and the large intestine. The results showed good correlationship with those reported by other authors. 2) The effect of vasoactive substances such as vasoconstrictor and vasodilator on the local blood flow in the bowel wall was confirmed. 3) This method is repeatedly applicable for measurement and also renders the information on the distribution of blood flow in the splanchnic area.", "contents": "Measurement of local blood flow of the intestine by hydrogen clearance method; experimental study. Local blood flow of the bowel wall was measured by hydrogen clearance method both in the muscular and submucosal layers in the mongrel dog, separately and concurrently. A platinum wire electrode with a bare tip of 0.5 mm in length and 0.2 mm in diameter was inserted into the each layer. About 10 per cent hydrogen gas was inhalated directly through the side hole attached to the endotracheal tube for 1-2 minutes and the obtained clearance curves were plotted on the semi-logarithmic scale, which was almost monoexponential. The results obtained were as follows: 1) Mean basal perfusion rate of the muscular layer of the intestine was 0.81-0.92 ml/min/gm, whereas that of the submucosal layer was 1.29-1.31 ml/min/gm, respectively. There was little difference of perfusion rates between the small and the large intestine. The results showed good correlationship with those reported by other authors. 2) The effect of vasoactive substances such as vasoconstrictor and vasodilator on the local blood flow in the bowel wall was confirmed. 3) This method is repeatedly applicable for measurement and also renders the information on the distribution of blood flow in the splanchnic area.", "PMID": 439503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4623", "title": "Results of stripping operation for varicose veins.", "content": "Approximately 150 stripping operations for primary varicose veins of the lower extremities were performed. Long-term evaluation (postoperative follow-up of more than five years) was made on 102 extremities and 83 per cent of these showed good or excellent results. Six patients were reoperated due to recurrence of varices. Accurate diagnosis and complete operation are most important in stripping operations.", "contents": "Results of stripping operation for varicose veins. Approximately 150 stripping operations for primary varicose veins of the lower extremities were performed. Long-term evaluation (postoperative follow-up of more than five years) was made on 102 extremities and 83 per cent of these showed good or excellent results. Six patients were reoperated due to recurrence of varices. Accurate diagnosis and complete operation are most important in stripping operations.", "PMID": 439504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4624", "title": "Idiopathic granulomatous orchitis.", "content": "A case of idiopathic granulomatous orchitis in a 37-year-old Nigerian male is discussed. He presented with a history of pain and swelling of left testis of three weeks duration. A clinical impression of tumor of the testis was made followed by orchidectomy. A systemic review failed to show evidence of any infective proccess. Histology showed non-caseating tuberculoid granulomas replacing the seminiferous tubules.", "contents": "Idiopathic granulomatous orchitis. A case of idiopathic granulomatous orchitis in a 37-year-old Nigerian male is discussed. He presented with a history of pain and swelling of left testis of three weeks duration. A clinical impression of tumor of the testis was made followed by orchidectomy. A systemic review failed to show evidence of any infective proccess. Histology showed non-caseating tuberculoid granulomas replacing the seminiferous tubules.", "PMID": 439505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4625", "title": "Effects of aldosterone and dexamethasone on blood chemical mediators in endotoxin shock.", "content": "Although the pathogenesis of endotoxins shock is still a matter of speculation, we attach importance to chemical mediators in endotoxin shock. We measured chemical mediators such as histamine, serotonin, bradykinin and catecholamines and investigated the anti-toxic effects of aldosterone and dexamethasone on rabbits in endotoxin shock. Histamine, serotonin and catecholamines were measured by fluorometric assay. Bradykinin was measured by bioassay using rat uteri. The blood concentration of chemical mediators after endotoxin administration was elevated. Aldosterone and dexamethasone inhibited the release of chemical mediators, thereby preventing endotoxin shock.", "contents": "Effects of aldosterone and dexamethasone on blood chemical mediators in endotoxin shock. Although the pathogenesis of endotoxins shock is still a matter of speculation, we attach importance to chemical mediators in endotoxin shock. We measured chemical mediators such as histamine, serotonin, bradykinin and catecholamines and investigated the anti-toxic effects of aldosterone and dexamethasone on rabbits in endotoxin shock. Histamine, serotonin and catecholamines were measured by fluorometric assay. Bradykinin was measured by bioassay using rat uteri. The blood concentration of chemical mediators after endotoxin administration was elevated. Aldosterone and dexamethasone inhibited the release of chemical mediators, thereby preventing endotoxin shock.", "PMID": 439506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4626", "title": "Blood levels following intravenous and endotracheal epinephrine administration.", "content": "The blood levels of epinephrine and its metabolites which were obtained when the drug was given by both the intravenous (IV) and endotracheal (ET) routes were compared. Anesthetized dogs were subjected to radioactive epinephrine in doses of 0.005, 0.03, 0.06, and 0.09 mg/kg administered both intravenously and endotracheally. Blood levels were obtained at 0.25, 0.75, 1.5, 3, 5, 10 and 30 minutes following injection and analyzed by thin layer chromatography. The maximum measured concentration following IV injection was observed at 15 seconds. Epinephrine was rapidly metabolized with 20% of the original concentration detected at 5 minutes following IV injection. When the drug was given by the ET route, the maximum measured concentration was similarly observed at 15 seconds. Following ET installation, initial blood concentrations are sustained over a much longer period of time and 80% of the initial concentration was detected at 5 minutes. Maximum concentrations are approximately one-tenth of those achieved with an equal IV dosage. It is concluded that endotracheally and intravenously administered epinephrine rapidly reach maximum blood levels although there are differences in kinetics between the two routes.", "contents": "Blood levels following intravenous and endotracheal epinephrine administration. The blood levels of epinephrine and its metabolites which were obtained when the drug was given by both the intravenous (IV) and endotracheal (ET) routes were compared. Anesthetized dogs were subjected to radioactive epinephrine in doses of 0.005, 0.03, 0.06, and 0.09 mg/kg administered both intravenously and endotracheally. Blood levels were obtained at 0.25, 0.75, 1.5, 3, 5, 10 and 30 minutes following injection and analyzed by thin layer chromatography. The maximum measured concentration following IV injection was observed at 15 seconds. Epinephrine was rapidly metabolized with 20% of the original concentration detected at 5 minutes following IV injection. When the drug was given by the ET route, the maximum measured concentration was similarly observed at 15 seconds. Following ET installation, initial blood concentrations are sustained over a much longer period of time and 80% of the initial concentration was detected at 5 minutes. Maximum concentrations are approximately one-tenth of those achieved with an equal IV dosage. It is concluded that endotracheally and intravenously administered epinephrine rapidly reach maximum blood levels although there are differences in kinetics between the two routes.", "PMID": 439542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4627", "title": "Ketamine dissociative anesthesia--emergency department use in children.", "content": "An on-going study to determine the efficacy and safety of ketamine dissociative anesthesia in the emergency department for children less than 10 years of age is presented. Preliminary results of the first 30 cases indicate that this technique may be safe and convenient if used within the appropriate protocol.", "contents": "Ketamine dissociative anesthesia--emergency department use in children. An on-going study to determine the efficacy and safety of ketamine dissociative anesthesia in the emergency department for children less than 10 years of age is presented. Preliminary results of the first 30 cases indicate that this technique may be safe and convenient if used within the appropriate protocol.", "PMID": 439543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4628", "title": "Acute chlorine gas exposure.", "content": "The heavy use of chlorine gas in industry and water purification poses the constant threat of mass gas exposure. In a recent experience with a chlorine gas disaster involving over 100 patients, 64, including six subsequently requiring admission, were treated in the main emergency unit facility. The remainder were triaged to a safe area away from the emergency unit with instructions for symptomatic treatment. Injuries were limited to four organ systems: pulmonary, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and cutaneous. Current treatment methods are compared with those in the literature and a protocol for management provided.", "contents": "Acute chlorine gas exposure. The heavy use of chlorine gas in industry and water purification poses the constant threat of mass gas exposure. In a recent experience with a chlorine gas disaster involving over 100 patients, 64, including six subsequently requiring admission, were treated in the main emergency unit facility. The remainder were triaged to a safe area away from the emergency unit with instructions for symptomatic treatment. Injuries were limited to four organ systems: pulmonary, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and cutaneous. Current treatment methods are compared with those in the literature and a protocol for management provided.", "PMID": 439544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4629", "title": "An injury severity scale for comprehensive management of central nervous system trauma.", "content": "The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is used in central Virginia by emergency medical technicians (EMT's), emergency department personnel and neurosurgical staff to evaluate patients with central nervous system (CNS) trauma. In a series of 406 patients admitted to the neurosurgical services at the University of Virgina Hospital between October 1977 and February 1978, a GCS score was recorded by the neurosurgeon, nurse, and EMT. All 250 data points, including clinical diagnosis and incidence of associated injuries were entered into our information system analysis. The scale can be easily mastered by all members of the emergency medical team giving reproducible results. It also appears to be a valid predictor of the ultimate outcomes of head injury. The GCS has substantial clinical value in the management of the nuerotrauma patient. It is presently being employed in all phases of the emergency medical system to monitor the progression of the neurologic injury. Ultimately, this injury severity scoring system will be used to standardize patient populations in well controlled clinical studies in which different treatment parameters will be assessed.", "contents": "An injury severity scale for comprehensive management of central nervous system trauma. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is used in central Virginia by emergency medical technicians (EMT's), emergency department personnel and neurosurgical staff to evaluate patients with central nervous system (CNS) trauma. In a series of 406 patients admitted to the neurosurgical services at the University of Virgina Hospital between October 1977 and February 1978, a GCS score was recorded by the neurosurgeon, nurse, and EMT. All 250 data points, including clinical diagnosis and incidence of associated injuries were entered into our information system analysis. The scale can be easily mastered by all members of the emergency medical team giving reproducible results. It also appears to be a valid predictor of the ultimate outcomes of head injury. The GCS has substantial clinical value in the management of the nuerotrauma patient. It is presently being employed in all phases of the emergency medical system to monitor the progression of the neurologic injury. Ultimately, this injury severity scoring system will be used to standardize patient populations in well controlled clinical studies in which different treatment parameters will be assessed.", "PMID": 439545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4630", "title": "Emergency management of acute phencyclidine intoxication.", "content": "Phencyclidine (PCP) is a potent sympathomimetic and hallucinogenic dissociative anesthetic agent. As an abused street drug, it is most often smoked, thus allowing the user to titrate the dose. The clinical signs of PCP intoxication can be viewed in three dose-related stages, but waxing and waning of signs through the three stages is not uncommon. Treatment protocols for each stage address drug therapy and both clinical and psychological supportive measures.", "contents": "Emergency management of acute phencyclidine intoxication. Phencyclidine (PCP) is a potent sympathomimetic and hallucinogenic dissociative anesthetic agent. As an abused street drug, it is most often smoked, thus allowing the user to titrate the dose. The clinical signs of PCP intoxication can be viewed in three dose-related stages, but waxing and waning of signs through the three stages is not uncommon. Treatment protocols for each stage address drug therapy and both clinical and psychological supportive measures.", "PMID": 439546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4631", "title": "Orientation program for emergency medicine residents.", "content": "An orientation curriculum was developed for incoming residents in emergency medicine at the University of Cincinnati (UC) in July, 1976. The major objectives of the orientation were 1) to identify and delineate the subject matter of emergency medicine, and 2) to review the basic elements of emergency medicine. Results of a pre- and posttest using the residency program at the Medical College of Pennsylvania (MCP) as a control group are presented. The pretest scores of the study groups showed no significant difference at a .05 level. The posttest, however, resulted in a significant improvement of the UC scores (p less than 0.05), while little change occurred in the MCP scores. An inter-group evaluation shows the UC group to have out-performed the MCP group significantly (p less than 0.05). Results of a one-year posttest showed the UC residents scoring an overall average of six points higher on the test. However, the general difference between the two groups of residents was not significant at the 0.05 level.", "contents": "Orientation program for emergency medicine residents. An orientation curriculum was developed for incoming residents in emergency medicine at the University of Cincinnati (UC) in July, 1976. The major objectives of the orientation were 1) to identify and delineate the subject matter of emergency medicine, and 2) to review the basic elements of emergency medicine. Results of a pre- and posttest using the residency program at the Medical College of Pennsylvania (MCP) as a control group are presented. The pretest scores of the study groups showed no significant difference at a .05 level. The posttest, however, resulted in a significant improvement of the UC scores (p less than 0.05), while little change occurred in the MCP scores. An inter-group evaluation shows the UC group to have out-performed the MCP group significantly (p less than 0.05). Results of a one-year posttest showed the UC residents scoring an overall average of six points higher on the test. However, the general difference between the two groups of residents was not significant at the 0.05 level.", "PMID": 439547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4632", "title": "Clinical assessment of patients undergoing CPR in the emergency department.", "content": "A problem frequently encountered in the emergency department is assessing the effectiveness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), particularly when it is continued over a period of time. To evaluate the effectiveness of CPR in our emergency department we use a mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitator (Michigan Instruments, Thumper) together with early invasive monitoring of pulse and blood pressure. This also allows for frequent monitoring of blood gases. Three patients are presented who underwent longterm CPR (ie, longer than one hour), and invasive monitoring. Results indicate that better management of the clinical status of patients undergoing prolonged resuscitation can be obtained by using continuous blood pressure and pulse monitoring, and frequent blood gas analysis. In addition, when frequent arrhythmias are taking place, this system allows for better determination of appropriate procedures and medications.", "contents": "Clinical assessment of patients undergoing CPR in the emergency department. A problem frequently encountered in the emergency department is assessing the effectiveness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), particularly when it is continued over a period of time. To evaluate the effectiveness of CPR in our emergency department we use a mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitator (Michigan Instruments, Thumper) together with early invasive monitoring of pulse and blood pressure. This also allows for frequent monitoring of blood gases. Three patients are presented who underwent longterm CPR (ie, longer than one hour), and invasive monitoring. Results indicate that better management of the clinical status of patients undergoing prolonged resuscitation can be obtained by using continuous blood pressure and pulse monitoring, and frequent blood gas analysis. In addition, when frequent arrhythmias are taking place, this system allows for better determination of appropriate procedures and medications.", "PMID": 439548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4633", "title": "Laparotomy in the emergency department.", "content": "Reports of advancements in emergency department operative resuscitative skills have included craniotomy, thoracotomy, cardiorrhaphy and even cardiopulmonary bypass. The efficacy and advisability of laparotomy in the emergency department remain in question. Between July, 1972, and July, 1977, adhering to an established protocol, resuscitative laparotomy was performed on 51 patients in the emergency department. All 51 patients underwent emergency thoracotomy also. Twenty-four patients were victims of gunshot wounds, 24 had sustained blunt trauma, and three had abdominal stab wounds. Injuries to the liver, major vessels, and spleen were most common. Control of hemorrhage by clamps, packs or pressure was the primary objective of laparotomy. Control of exsanguinating hemorrhage with precise application of vascular clamps was possible in all but 15 patients. Because of extensive multiple injuries and inability to achieve cardiovascular stability, only 11 patients reached the operating room, and none survived to leave the hospital. Although technically possible, laparotomy in the emergency center did not alter the fatal outcome of moribund patients in this series.", "contents": "Laparotomy in the emergency department. Reports of advancements in emergency department operative resuscitative skills have included craniotomy, thoracotomy, cardiorrhaphy and even cardiopulmonary bypass. The efficacy and advisability of laparotomy in the emergency department remain in question. Between July, 1972, and July, 1977, adhering to an established protocol, resuscitative laparotomy was performed on 51 patients in the emergency department. All 51 patients underwent emergency thoracotomy also. Twenty-four patients were victims of gunshot wounds, 24 had sustained blunt trauma, and three had abdominal stab wounds. Injuries to the liver, major vessels, and spleen were most common. Control of hemorrhage by clamps, packs or pressure was the primary objective of laparotomy. Control of exsanguinating hemorrhage with precise application of vascular clamps was possible in all but 15 patients. Because of extensive multiple injuries and inability to achieve cardiovascular stability, only 11 patients reached the operating room, and none survived to leave the hospital. Although technically possible, laparotomy in the emergency center did not alter the fatal outcome of moribund patients in this series.", "PMID": 439555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4634", "title": "Incidence, etiology, and outcome of pulseless idioventricular rhythm treated with dexamethasone during advanced CPR.", "content": "The cardiac resuscitation records of 458 patients who received advanced cardiac life support at Detroit General Hospital during the last two years were reviewed to identify patients who had pulseless idioventricular rhythm (PIVR) recognized and treated with dexamethasone. Twenty-five cases were identified. The initial successful resuscitation rate of 52% in these patients contrasts sharply with other published data indicating 100% failure with the use of conventional chronotropic drugs. The most common etiology of cardiac arrest in our patients who display PIVR during resuscitation is hypoperfusion shock. Dexamethasone may counteract the lethal arrhythmia by causing the release of aditional adenosine triphosphate into the cytoplasm from the mitochondria.", "contents": "Incidence, etiology, and outcome of pulseless idioventricular rhythm treated with dexamethasone during advanced CPR. The cardiac resuscitation records of 458 patients who received advanced cardiac life support at Detroit General Hospital during the last two years were reviewed to identify patients who had pulseless idioventricular rhythm (PIVR) recognized and treated with dexamethasone. Twenty-five cases were identified. The initial successful resuscitation rate of 52% in these patients contrasts sharply with other published data indicating 100% failure with the use of conventional chronotropic drugs. The most common etiology of cardiac arrest in our patients who display PIVR during resuscitation is hypoperfusion shock. Dexamethasone may counteract the lethal arrhythmia by causing the release of aditional adenosine triphosphate into the cytoplasm from the mitochondria.", "PMID": 439556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4635", "title": "Caustic esophageal and gastric erosion without evidence of oral burns following detergent ingestion.", "content": "The effects of accidental ingestion of a caustic detergent are studied in the report of 14 patients seen in the Hennepin County Medical Center. Since the history of amount ingested was unclear, all patients underwent endoscopy. Four patients had esophageal injury serious enough to warrant hospitalization. None of the patients had evidence of oropharyngeal burns, thus challenging the validity of the widely held notion that oral lesions nearly always accompany esophageal injury following caustic ingestion. The importance of analyzing the ingested substance is emphasized, as is the need for emergency departments to have wide range pH paper available to help determine the necessity for endoscopy.", "contents": "Caustic esophageal and gastric erosion without evidence of oral burns following detergent ingestion. The effects of accidental ingestion of a caustic detergent are studied in the report of 14 patients seen in the Hennepin County Medical Center. Since the history of amount ingested was unclear, all patients underwent endoscopy. Four patients had esophageal injury serious enough to warrant hospitalization. None of the patients had evidence of oropharyngeal burns, thus challenging the validity of the widely held notion that oral lesions nearly always accompany esophageal injury following caustic ingestion. The importance of analyzing the ingested substance is emphasized, as is the need for emergency departments to have wide range pH paper available to help determine the necessity for endoscopy.", "PMID": 439557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4636", "title": "Observations on the rate and mechanism of hemolysis in individuals with Hb Z\u00fcrich [His E7(63)beta leads to Arg]: II. Thermal denaturation of hemoglobin as a cause of anemia during fever.", "content": "Individuals with unstable hemoglobins may become more anemic during episodes of intercurrent viral or bacterial infections. Pathophysiologic mechanisms that are responsible for this phenomenon have not been elucidated. Recently we observed a patient with Hb Z\u00fcrich [His E7(63)beta leads to Arg] whose anemia worsened during a febrile episode characterized by temperatures ranging between 40 degrees and 41 degrees C, splenomegaly, and the appearance of Heinz bodies in the circulating erythrocytes. There was no history of self-medication and no drugs were administered during hospitalization. To determine the effect of a 3 degrees to 4 degrees temperature elevation above the physiologic range on the rate and degree of Heinz body formation, normal (Hb A) and Hb Z\u00fcrich bloods were incubated in vitro at 4 degrees C, 37 degrees C, and 41 degrees C for 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours and stained for two minutes at the end of each incubation period with rhodanile blue. No Heinz bodies appeared at 4 degrees C. The rate of Heinz body formation was significantly greater in Hb Z\u00fcrich than normal blood, both at 37 degrees C and 41 degrees C. These observations suggest that in vivo exposure of red cells to temperatures in the biologic range of fever may contribute to the worsening of anemia that occurs during infections in individuals with unstable hemoglobins. Incubating whole blood at 41 degrees C for three hours and staining with rhodanile blue for two minutes appears to be a simple and effective screening test for Hb Z\u00fcrich and possibly the other unstable hemoglobins. Also the technique is semi-quantitative and may be useful as a research tool for defining factors altering the in vivo stability of the unstable hemoglobins.", "contents": "Observations on the rate and mechanism of hemolysis in individuals with Hb Z\u00fcrich [His E7(63)beta leads to Arg]: II. Thermal denaturation of hemoglobin as a cause of anemia during fever. Individuals with unstable hemoglobins may become more anemic during episodes of intercurrent viral or bacterial infections. Pathophysiologic mechanisms that are responsible for this phenomenon have not been elucidated. Recently we observed a patient with Hb Z\u00fcrich [His E7(63)beta leads to Arg] whose anemia worsened during a febrile episode characterized by temperatures ranging between 40 degrees and 41 degrees C, splenomegaly, and the appearance of Heinz bodies in the circulating erythrocytes. There was no history of self-medication and no drugs were administered during hospitalization. To determine the effect of a 3 degrees to 4 degrees temperature elevation above the physiologic range on the rate and degree of Heinz body formation, normal (Hb A) and Hb Z\u00fcrich bloods were incubated in vitro at 4 degrees C, 37 degrees C, and 41 degrees C for 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours and stained for two minutes at the end of each incubation period with rhodanile blue. No Heinz bodies appeared at 4 degrees C. The rate of Heinz body formation was significantly greater in Hb Z\u00fcrich than normal blood, both at 37 degrees C and 41 degrees C. These observations suggest that in vivo exposure of red cells to temperatures in the biologic range of fever may contribute to the worsening of anemia that occurs during infections in individuals with unstable hemoglobins. Incubating whole blood at 41 degrees C for three hours and staining with rhodanile blue for two minutes appears to be a simple and effective screening test for Hb Z\u00fcrich and possibly the other unstable hemoglobins. Also the technique is semi-quantitative and may be useful as a research tool for defining factors altering the in vivo stability of the unstable hemoglobins.", "PMID": 439565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4637", "title": "[Effect of hyaluronidase on morphological changes in the myocardium in experimental myocardial infarct].", "content": "ECG, histological, and histochemical examinations on a model of experimental myocardial infarction showed that hyaluronidase administration leads to a decrease in the sum of elevation of the ST segment and the number of points (NST) at which this elevation is recorded, acceleration of healing processes in the affected zone, and to activation of respiratory enzymes and the pentosophosphate shunt in some of the fibres of the peri-infarction zone.", "contents": "[Effect of hyaluronidase on morphological changes in the myocardium in experimental myocardial infarct]. ECG, histological, and histochemical examinations on a model of experimental myocardial infarction showed that hyaluronidase administration leads to a decrease in the sum of elevation of the ST segment and the number of points (NST) at which this elevation is recorded, acceleration of healing processes in the affected zone, and to activation of respiratory enzymes and the pentosophosphate shunt in some of the fibres of the peri-infarction zone.", "PMID": 439587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4638", "title": "[Hemodynamic variants of acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "In 165 patients with myocardial infarction admitted to the clinic within the first 24 hours of the disease the size of the zone of the lesion and its dynamics were appraised in the immediate 4-5 days. Cartographic ECG analysis and study of the vectorcardiogram in dynamics and analysis of the creatine phosphokinase activity curves make it possible to appraise the dynamics of the necrotic zone in the first days of myocardial infarction. It was found that in most patients with macrofocal myocardial infarction the zone of the necrosis increases both in length and in depth in the first days of the disease.", "contents": "[Hemodynamic variants of acute myocardial infarct]. In 165 patients with myocardial infarction admitted to the clinic within the first 24 hours of the disease the size of the zone of the lesion and its dynamics were appraised in the immediate 4-5 days. Cartographic ECG analysis and study of the vectorcardiogram in dynamics and analysis of the creatine phosphokinase activity curves make it possible to appraise the dynamics of the necrotic zone in the first days of myocardial infarction. It was found that in most patients with macrofocal myocardial infarction the zone of the necrosis increases both in length and in depth in the first days of the disease.", "PMID": 439590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4639", "title": "[State of general and renal hemodynamics in acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "The results of studying central and renal hemodynamics in 49 patients with a different course of myocardial infarction in the acute period (1st, 3rd, and 10th day) are analysed. It was established that on the 1st day the cardiac output decreases considerably in circulatory insufficiency and hardly changes in an uncomplicated course of the disease. The stroke output of the heart reduces significantly in all forms of the course of myocardial infarction. At an increase of total peripheral resistance is observed in myocardial infarction, particularly in circulatory insufficiency. A significant increase in the central hemodynamics indices is noted at the end of the acute period. On analysing the dependence of central and renal hemodynamics, the authors conclude that local mechanisms are involved in the changes in renal hemodynamics in addition to its dependence on the disorders of central hemodynamics.", "contents": "[State of general and renal hemodynamics in acute myocardial infarct]. The results of studying central and renal hemodynamics in 49 patients with a different course of myocardial infarction in the acute period (1st, 3rd, and 10th day) are analysed. It was established that on the 1st day the cardiac output decreases considerably in circulatory insufficiency and hardly changes in an uncomplicated course of the disease. The stroke output of the heart reduces significantly in all forms of the course of myocardial infarction. At an increase of total peripheral resistance is observed in myocardial infarction, particularly in circulatory insufficiency. A significant increase in the central hemodynamics indices is noted at the end of the acute period. On analysing the dependence of central and renal hemodynamics, the authors conclude that local mechanisms are involved in the changes in renal hemodynamics in addition to its dependence on the disorders of central hemodynamics.", "PMID": 439591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4640", "title": "[Spasm of the coronary arteries in acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "Emergency coronarography was performed in 36 patients with myocardial infarction. Spasms of the coronary artery supplying the area of the infarction were observed in some cases. The fact that the vessel was demonstrated along its entire length after 0.5 mg of nitroglycerine was placed under the tongue confirmed the existence of the spasm. In most patients with acute myocardial infarction the vessel supplying the area of the affected muscle has the appearance of a stump, i.e. its peripheral segments are not demonstrated. At the same time, in some patients, who died some time after the examination, anatomical study of the heart showed that these segments of the vessel were not occluded. Such an angiographic picture may also be explained by the spasm of the coronary arteries. The angiographic pattern of the coronary channel in patients with acute myocardial infarction suggests that coronarolytics and spasmolytics injected both intravenously and into the coronary vessel in coronarography may be used still more extensively.", "contents": "[Spasm of the coronary arteries in acute myocardial infarct]. Emergency coronarography was performed in 36 patients with myocardial infarction. Spasms of the coronary artery supplying the area of the infarction were observed in some cases. The fact that the vessel was demonstrated along its entire length after 0.5 mg of nitroglycerine was placed under the tongue confirmed the existence of the spasm. In most patients with acute myocardial infarction the vessel supplying the area of the affected muscle has the appearance of a stump, i.e. its peripheral segments are not demonstrated. At the same time, in some patients, who died some time after the examination, anatomical study of the heart showed that these segments of the vessel were not occluded. Such an angiographic picture may also be explained by the spasm of the coronary arteries. The angiographic pattern of the coronary channel in patients with acute myocardial infarction suggests that coronarolytics and spasmolytics injected both intravenously and into the coronary vessel in coronarography may be used still more extensively.", "PMID": 439592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4641", "title": "[Use of the method of counterpulsation by means of an intra-aortic balloon in the treatment of myocardial infarct].", "content": "The results of applying counterpulsation with an intraaortic balloon in the treatment of 17 patients suffering from myocardial infarction are discussed. Counterpulsation was indicated in 15 patients because of cardiogenic shock and in 2 (with concomitant arterial hypertension) because of expansion of the zone of myocarial infarction against the background of unstable arterial pressure. Nine patients died, counterpulsation in these cases was begun 5 hours after the appearance of the shock symptoms or later. A comparative analysis of hemodynamic changes associated with counterpulsation in patients who survived and in those who died is made.", "contents": "[Use of the method of counterpulsation by means of an intra-aortic balloon in the treatment of myocardial infarct]. The results of applying counterpulsation with an intraaortic balloon in the treatment of 17 patients suffering from myocardial infarction are discussed. Counterpulsation was indicated in 15 patients because of cardiogenic shock and in 2 (with concomitant arterial hypertension) because of expansion of the zone of myocarial infarction against the background of unstable arterial pressure. Nine patients died, counterpulsation in these cases was begun 5 hours after the appearance of the shock symptoms or later. A comparative analysis of hemodynamic changes associated with counterpulsation in patients who survived and in those who died is made.", "PMID": 439594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4642", "title": "[Clinico-morphological characteristics of recurrent myocardial infarct with lethal outcome].", "content": "The work is based on the results of follow-up of 656 patients with myocardial infarction who survived the first 72 hours after the attack. The disease followed a recurrent course in 105 persons (16.1%), 32 (30.4%) of whom died. Nine (1.6%) out of 551 patients who had no recurrence of the disease died. Recurrent necrosis was the principal cause of hospital mortality in myocardial infarction, with death occurring 3 days after the onset of the disease. The clinical picture of recurrent myocardial infarction with a lethal outcome is characterized by a high incidence of the predominance of the asthmatic and arrhythmic variants. The morphologic picture of recurrent myocardial infarction is characterized by the predominance of colliquative necrosis, large foci of myocardial \"injury\" in the perinecrotic zone, and poorly demonstrated proliferative processes.", "contents": "[Clinico-morphological characteristics of recurrent myocardial infarct with lethal outcome]. The work is based on the results of follow-up of 656 patients with myocardial infarction who survived the first 72 hours after the attack. The disease followed a recurrent course in 105 persons (16.1%), 32 (30.4%) of whom died. Nine (1.6%) out of 551 patients who had no recurrence of the disease died. Recurrent necrosis was the principal cause of hospital mortality in myocardial infarction, with death occurring 3 days after the onset of the disease. The clinical picture of recurrent myocardial infarction with a lethal outcome is characterized by a high incidence of the predominance of the asthmatic and arrhythmic variants. The morphologic picture of recurrent myocardial infarction is characterized by the predominance of colliquative necrosis, large foci of myocardial \"injury\" in the perinecrotic zone, and poorly demonstrated proliferative processes.", "PMID": 439596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4643", "title": "[Diagnostic value of the system of Frank's orthogonal leads in inveterate myocardial infarct].", "content": "Comparison of data obtained in recording corrected orthogonal leads of the Frank system and 12 classical ECG leads in 118 patients with ischemic heart disease, among whom there were 76 patients with an old myocardial infarction, showed that corrected orthogonal leads may be used in mass population survey with the use of automatic diagnostic machines. It was established that the following ECG indices may be used in recording Frank's corrected orthogonal leads in the diagnosis of cicatricial myocardial changes: amplitude and duration of Q wave, the Q/R and R/S coefficients, the appearance of wave S in lead \"Z\". In an old myocardial infarction of posterior localization changes are recorded in lead \"Y\", in infarction of antero-septal localization changes are recorded in lead \"Z\" and to a lesser degree in lead \"X\"; in infarction of antero-lateral localization changes are recorded in lead \"X\" and to a lesser degree in lead \"Z\".", "contents": "[Diagnostic value of the system of Frank's orthogonal leads in inveterate myocardial infarct]. Comparison of data obtained in recording corrected orthogonal leads of the Frank system and 12 classical ECG leads in 118 patients with ischemic heart disease, among whom there were 76 patients with an old myocardial infarction, showed that corrected orthogonal leads may be used in mass population survey with the use of automatic diagnostic machines. It was established that the following ECG indices may be used in recording Frank's corrected orthogonal leads in the diagnosis of cicatricial myocardial changes: amplitude and duration of Q wave, the Q/R and R/S coefficients, the appearance of wave S in lead \"Z\". In an old myocardial infarction of posterior localization changes are recorded in lead \"Y\", in infarction of antero-septal localization changes are recorded in lead \"Z\" and to a lesser degree in lead \"X\"; in infarction of antero-lateral localization changes are recorded in lead \"X\" and to a lesser degree in lead \"Z\".", "PMID": 439597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4644", "title": "[Comparison of the blood plasma depressor prostaglandin content and the indicators of hemodynamics in dogs with experimental myocardial infarct and cardiogenic shock].", "content": "The quantitative composition of depressor prostaglandins PGE1 and PGA1 in the plasma of arterial and venous blood and blood from the great cardiac vein was studied in comparison with the values of hemodynamics in dogs with experimental myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock. The content of prostaglandins in blood plasma was determined by the radioimmune method. The development of acute coronary insufficiency was attended with changes in the quantitative composition of the depressor PGE1 and PGA1 in the plasma of arterial and venous blood and blood from the great cardiac vein. In myocardial infarction and particularly in cardiogenic shock, intensification of PGE1 and PGA1 synthesis and an increase in the consumption of these PG by the myocardium occurred beginning with the first hours following occlusion of the coronary arteries, which suggests that PGE1 and PGA1 may probably take part in the normalization of the activity of the affected heart.", "contents": "[Comparison of the blood plasma depressor prostaglandin content and the indicators of hemodynamics in dogs with experimental myocardial infarct and cardiogenic shock]. The quantitative composition of depressor prostaglandins PGE1 and PGA1 in the plasma of arterial and venous blood and blood from the great cardiac vein was studied in comparison with the values of hemodynamics in dogs with experimental myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock. The content of prostaglandins in blood plasma was determined by the radioimmune method. The development of acute coronary insufficiency was attended with changes in the quantitative composition of the depressor PGE1 and PGA1 in the plasma of arterial and venous blood and blood from the great cardiac vein. In myocardial infarction and particularly in cardiogenic shock, intensification of PGE1 and PGA1 synthesis and an increase in the consumption of these PG by the myocardium occurred beginning with the first hours following occlusion of the coronary arteries, which suggests that PGE1 and PGA1 may probably take part in the normalization of the activity of the affected heart.", "PMID": 439598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4645", "title": "[Various characteristics of lipid metabolism in experimental myocardial infarct and their effect on myocardial contraction].", "content": "It was established in rabbit experiments that in acute focal myocardial ischemia induced by ligation of the descending branch of the left coronary artery, diminution of the force of cardiac contractions and an increase in the content of free fatty acids in blood plasma are observed. Progressing intramyocardial lipolysis is noted for 6 days. Lipolysis blockade with large doses of nicotinic acid leads to an extremely sharp drop in the contractile force of the heart in experimental animals with acute focal myocardial ischemia and to drastic damage of the myocardial ultrastructures as well as to disorders of the metabolism of intracellular lipids.", "contents": "[Various characteristics of lipid metabolism in experimental myocardial infarct and their effect on myocardial contraction]. It was established in rabbit experiments that in acute focal myocardial ischemia induced by ligation of the descending branch of the left coronary artery, diminution of the force of cardiac contractions and an increase in the content of free fatty acids in blood plasma are observed. Progressing intramyocardial lipolysis is noted for 6 days. Lipolysis blockade with large doses of nicotinic acid leads to an extremely sharp drop in the contractile force of the heart in experimental animals with acute focal myocardial ischemia and to drastic damage of the myocardial ultrastructures as well as to disorders of the metabolism of intracellular lipids.", "PMID": 439599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4646", "title": "[Adenosine metabolism in the myocardium in experimental myocardial infarct].", "content": "It was shown in dog experiments that the formation and content of the adenosine precursor in the zone of the infarction and the surrounding parts of the myocardium undergo no essential changes. At the same time, further conversion of adenosine monophosphate in an infarction heart is deeply disturbed due to shifts in the enzymatic systems of the adenosine cycle. In the area of the necrosis adenosine monophosphate is metabolized mainly without the production of adenosine because high activity of AMP aminohydrolase here occurs in conjunction with deep inhibition of 5-nucleotidase. Diametrically opposite relationships are created in the myocardium outside of the focus of infarction and adenosine production does not suffer evidently. In both areas of the involved heart adenosine decomposition is delayed due to the inhibition of adenosine deaminase, but in the infarction zone this shift is restricted to 48 hours whereas in the periinfarction zone it is not corrected even 10 days after reproduction of the pathological condition.", "contents": "[Adenosine metabolism in the myocardium in experimental myocardial infarct]. It was shown in dog experiments that the formation and content of the adenosine precursor in the zone of the infarction and the surrounding parts of the myocardium undergo no essential changes. At the same time, further conversion of adenosine monophosphate in an infarction heart is deeply disturbed due to shifts in the enzymatic systems of the adenosine cycle. In the area of the necrosis adenosine monophosphate is metabolized mainly without the production of adenosine because high activity of AMP aminohydrolase here occurs in conjunction with deep inhibition of 5-nucleotidase. Diametrically opposite relationships are created in the myocardium outside of the focus of infarction and adenosine production does not suffer evidently. In both areas of the involved heart adenosine decomposition is delayed due to the inhibition of adenosine deaminase, but in the infarction zone this shift is restricted to 48 hours whereas in the periinfarction zone it is not corrected even 10 days after reproduction of the pathological condition.", "PMID": 439600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4647", "title": "[Significance of the atrial stimulation test in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease. A comparison with measured physical loading on the bicycle ergometer and with coronary angiographic data].", "content": "The results of the atrial stimulation test were compared with the data of the test on a bicycle ergometer and coronary arteriography. The atrial stimulation test made it possible to diagnose coronary insufficiency in 91.6% of patients with ischemic heart disease. It was established that atrial stimulation helps in determining exactly the causes of a vague cardialgic syndrome in some cases in which the test on a bicycle ergometer cannot be carried out or when it is difficult to appraise its results. As compared to the test with dosed physical load on a bicycle ergometer, the atrial stimulation test proved more sensitive and less specific.", "contents": "[Significance of the atrial stimulation test in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease. A comparison with measured physical loading on the bicycle ergometer and with coronary angiographic data]. The results of the atrial stimulation test were compared with the data of the test on a bicycle ergometer and coronary arteriography. The atrial stimulation test made it possible to diagnose coronary insufficiency in 91.6% of patients with ischemic heart disease. It was established that atrial stimulation helps in determining exactly the causes of a vague cardialgic syndrome in some cases in which the test on a bicycle ergometer cannot be carried out or when it is difficult to appraise its results. As compared to the test with dosed physical load on a bicycle ergometer, the atrial stimulation test proved more sensitive and less specific.", "PMID": 439603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4648", "title": "[Comparison of electrocardiographic tests with measured physical loading in ischemic heart disease].", "content": "The results of tests with physical load on a bicycle ergometer and treadmill in 50 patients with ischemic heart disease were compared. The control group was formed of 20 patients with neurocirculatory dystonia. Agreement between the results of both tests was encountered in 90% of patients with ischemic heart disease. The authors conclude that the tests do not differ essentially in the main indices (rate of cardiac contractions, index of cardiac activity at the peak of the load, time of uninterrupted work until the criteria of load cessation). It is suggested that tests on the treadmill and those on the bicycle ergometer in patients with ischemic heart disease are equivalent.", "contents": "[Comparison of electrocardiographic tests with measured physical loading in ischemic heart disease]. The results of tests with physical load on a bicycle ergometer and treadmill in 50 patients with ischemic heart disease were compared. The control group was formed of 20 patients with neurocirculatory dystonia. Agreement between the results of both tests was encountered in 90% of patients with ischemic heart disease. The authors conclude that the tests do not differ essentially in the main indices (rate of cardiac contractions, index of cardiac activity at the peak of the load, time of uninterrupted work until the criteria of load cessation). It is suggested that tests on the treadmill and those on the bicycle ergometer in patients with ischemic heart disease are equivalent.", "PMID": 439605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4649", "title": "[Measured physical load test and the atrial stimulation test in the differential diagnosis of ischemic heart disease in patients with unchanged coronary angiograms].", "content": "Assessment of the clinical findings and the results of the bicycle ergometry test conducted in 17 patients and the atrial stimulation test performed in 13 patients allowed the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease to be made in 8 of 20 patients with normal coronary arteriogram. It is noted that the combined performance of the test with dosed physical load on a bicycle ergometer and the atrial stimulation test raises their values in differential diagnosis. The authors content that to improve the differential diagnosis of ischemic heart disease and functional cardiopathy in patients with normal coronary arteriogram it is advisable to study coronary microcirculation and myocardial metabolism during performance of the atrial stimulation test.", "contents": "[Measured physical load test and the atrial stimulation test in the differential diagnosis of ischemic heart disease in patients with unchanged coronary angiograms]. Assessment of the clinical findings and the results of the bicycle ergometry test conducted in 17 patients and the atrial stimulation test performed in 13 patients allowed the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease to be made in 8 of 20 patients with normal coronary arteriogram. It is noted that the combined performance of the test with dosed physical load on a bicycle ergometer and the atrial stimulation test raises their values in differential diagnosis. The authors content that to improve the differential diagnosis of ischemic heart disease and functional cardiopathy in patients with normal coronary arteriogram it is advisable to study coronary microcirculation and myocardial metabolism during performance of the atrial stimulation test.", "PMID": 439606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4650", "title": "[Importance of the atrial vectorcardiogram in evaluating the myocardial functional state in ischemic heart disease].", "content": "The results of examination of 61 patients suffering from ischemic heart disease are analysed. All were subjected to catheterization of the right and left parts of the heart, left ventriculography, and selective coronarography. Some parameters of intracardiac hemodynamics, including the end diastolic pressure in the left ventricle, were determined. Atrial vectorcardiogram was recorded after I. T. Akulinichev's system (with mV = 100 mm). Comparison of the parameters of the atrial P loop of the vectorcardiogram with the findings of heart catheterization showed a direct dependence between the atrial changes recorded on the vectorcardiogram and the value of the left ventricular end diastolic pressure. Signs of overexertion of the left atrium grow with an increase in the end diastolic pressure. Quantitative dependence between these parameters is demonstrated. When the end diastolic pressure grows higher, overexertion of the left atrium is naturally joined by overexertion of the right atrium. Atrial vectorcardiography may be an important invasive method for appraising the functional condition of the left ventricular myocardium in patients with ischemic heart disease.", "contents": "[Importance of the atrial vectorcardiogram in evaluating the myocardial functional state in ischemic heart disease]. The results of examination of 61 patients suffering from ischemic heart disease are analysed. All were subjected to catheterization of the right and left parts of the heart, left ventriculography, and selective coronarography. Some parameters of intracardiac hemodynamics, including the end diastolic pressure in the left ventricle, were determined. Atrial vectorcardiogram was recorded after I. T. Akulinichev's system (with mV = 100 mm). Comparison of the parameters of the atrial P loop of the vectorcardiogram with the findings of heart catheterization showed a direct dependence between the atrial changes recorded on the vectorcardiogram and the value of the left ventricular end diastolic pressure. Signs of overexertion of the left atrium grow with an increase in the end diastolic pressure. Quantitative dependence between these parameters is demonstrated. When the end diastolic pressure grows higher, overexertion of the left atrium is naturally joined by overexertion of the right atrium. Atrial vectorcardiography may be an important invasive method for appraising the functional condition of the left ventricular myocardium in patients with ischemic heart disease.", "PMID": 439607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4651", "title": "[Myocardial contractile function in ischemic heart disease patients who have had a myocardial infarct].", "content": "The results of the examination (electrocardiography, selective coronary arteriography, and left ventriculography) of 100 patients with ischemic heart disease and a history of myocardial infarction are discussed. All patients with postinfarction cicatricial changes in the myocardium of the anterior wall had severe affection (occlusion or stenosis by more than 75%) of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery, while 93% of patients with cicatricial changes in the myocardium of the inferior wall had affection of the right coronary artery. The parameters of myocardial contractility (ejection fraction, left ventricular and diastolic pressure, and Vmax) in patients with microfocal postinfarction cardiosclerosis both of the anterior and the inferior walls and in patients with macrofocal cardiosclerosis of the inferior wall remain within the lowest normal level. The contractility of the myocardium is sharply impaired in patients with macrofocal cardiosclerosis of the anterior wall and in those with combined cardiosclerosis of the anterior and inferior walls.", "contents": "[Myocardial contractile function in ischemic heart disease patients who have had a myocardial infarct]. The results of the examination (electrocardiography, selective coronary arteriography, and left ventriculography) of 100 patients with ischemic heart disease and a history of myocardial infarction are discussed. All patients with postinfarction cicatricial changes in the myocardium of the anterior wall had severe affection (occlusion or stenosis by more than 75%) of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery, while 93% of patients with cicatricial changes in the myocardium of the inferior wall had affection of the right coronary artery. The parameters of myocardial contractility (ejection fraction, left ventricular and diastolic pressure, and Vmax) in patients with microfocal postinfarction cardiosclerosis both of the anterior and the inferior walls and in patients with macrofocal cardiosclerosis of the inferior wall remain within the lowest normal level. The contractility of the myocardium is sharply impaired in patients with macrofocal cardiosclerosis of the anterior wall and in those with combined cardiosclerosis of the anterior and inferior walls.", "PMID": 439608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4652", "title": "[Fate of ischemic heart disease patients depending on the nature of the coronary artery lesion].", "content": "The natural course of ischemic heart disease was followed up in 240 patients in periods of 1 to 7 years (average follow-up period 3 years). In all patients the character of affection of the coronary arteries was verified by angiography. The coronary arteries were normal or had mild changes in 27 patients. Obstruction of arteries (50 to 100%) was found in 189 patients. The study made it possible to establish the prognostic significance of angiographic and clinical data. Survival was highest when the coronary arteries were normal or only mildly changed as well as in isolated affection of a single artery. The disease followed a severe course with high mortality in involvement of three coronary arteries with grade III--IV stenosis.", "contents": "[Fate of ischemic heart disease patients depending on the nature of the coronary artery lesion]. The natural course of ischemic heart disease was followed up in 240 patients in periods of 1 to 7 years (average follow-up period 3 years). In all patients the character of affection of the coronary arteries was verified by angiography. The coronary arteries were normal or had mild changes in 27 patients. Obstruction of arteries (50 to 100%) was found in 189 patients. The study made it possible to establish the prognostic significance of angiographic and clinical data. Survival was highest when the coronary arteries were normal or only mildly changed as well as in isolated affection of a single artery. The disease followed a severe course with high mortality in involvement of three coronary arteries with grade III--IV stenosis.", "PMID": 439609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4653", "title": "[Lipid level in the blood, based on multiple study data, and the characteristics of the course of ischemic heart disease].", "content": "The blood lipid content and lipoprotein spectrum were repeatedly tested in 216 males with ischemic heart disease for follow-up periods of 4 to 5 years. Irrespective of the type of hyperlipoproteinemia, the blood triglyceride level was marked by the greatest individual fluctuations and the level of total cholesterol by the least fluctuations. Comparison of the clinical course of ischemic heart disease with the peculiarities of the changes in the blood lipid content revealed a higher incidence of recurrent myocardial infarction and sudden death among individuals with type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia. Recurrent vascular catastrophes were observed not only in patients with stable hypercholesterolemia but also in individuals with its labile form. It is concluded that repeated tests for the blood lipid content provide for more reliable diagnosis of hyperlipidemia and the type of hyperlipoproteinemia, which is of unquestionable practical importance.", "contents": "[Lipid level in the blood, based on multiple study data, and the characteristics of the course of ischemic heart disease]. The blood lipid content and lipoprotein spectrum were repeatedly tested in 216 males with ischemic heart disease for follow-up periods of 4 to 5 years. Irrespective of the type of hyperlipoproteinemia, the blood triglyceride level was marked by the greatest individual fluctuations and the level of total cholesterol by the least fluctuations. Comparison of the clinical course of ischemic heart disease with the peculiarities of the changes in the blood lipid content revealed a higher incidence of recurrent myocardial infarction and sudden death among individuals with type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia. Recurrent vascular catastrophes were observed not only in patients with stable hypercholesterolemia but also in individuals with its labile form. It is concluded that repeated tests for the blood lipid content provide for more reliable diagnosis of hyperlipidemia and the type of hyperlipoproteinemia, which is of unquestionable practical importance.", "PMID": 439611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4654", "title": "[Thrombocyte phospholipids in ischemic heart disease with a varying degree of coronary arteriosclerosis severity].", "content": "A significant increase of the relative phosphatidyl serine level, a decrease in the percentage of lipoleic and arachidonic acids, and an increase in the oleic acid level were revealed in blood platelet phospholipids of patients with ischemic heart disease and severe coronary atherosclerosis. In the entire group of patients with ischemic heart disease (with coronary atherosclerosis of various degree), these changes are less marked and only the decrease in the linoleic acid level as compared to that in healthy individuals is significant. It was established that besides these changes in the phospholipid structures, blood platelet aggregation increases when the severity of the atherosclerotic process in the coronary arteries becomes more pronounced.", "contents": "[Thrombocyte phospholipids in ischemic heart disease with a varying degree of coronary arteriosclerosis severity]. A significant increase of the relative phosphatidyl serine level, a decrease in the percentage of lipoleic and arachidonic acids, and an increase in the oleic acid level were revealed in blood platelet phospholipids of patients with ischemic heart disease and severe coronary atherosclerosis. In the entire group of patients with ischemic heart disease (with coronary atherosclerosis of various degree), these changes are less marked and only the decrease in the linoleic acid level as compared to that in healthy individuals is significant. It was established that besides these changes in the phospholipid structures, blood platelet aggregation increases when the severity of the atherosclerotic process in the coronary arteries becomes more pronounced.", "PMID": 439612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4655", "title": "[Cardiodynamic characteristics of chronic coronary insufficiency patients at medical rehabilitation stages using therapeutic physical exercise measures].", "content": "The functional condition of the cardiovascular system was studied in patients with chronic coronary insufficiency in various stages of rehabilitation employing measures of remedial gymnastics with the elaboration of criteria for substaintiating the broadening of the movement regimen. Sixty patients suffering from ischemic heart disease marked by the clinical picture of chronic coronary insufficiency and 25 persons forming a control group were examined Polycardiography, aortic and arterial rheocardiography, and tele-electrocardiography were used. A follow-up of the functional condition of the cardiovascular system makes it possible to detect signs of the development of its reserve possibilities under the effect of long-term remedial gymnastics. Favourable shifts in the functional ability of the cardiovascular system may be only produced after long-term (12 months) remedial gymnastics performed regularly and with sufficient physical exertion, including walking and running.", "contents": "[Cardiodynamic characteristics of chronic coronary insufficiency patients at medical rehabilitation stages using therapeutic physical exercise measures]. The functional condition of the cardiovascular system was studied in patients with chronic coronary insufficiency in various stages of rehabilitation employing measures of remedial gymnastics with the elaboration of criteria for substaintiating the broadening of the movement regimen. Sixty patients suffering from ischemic heart disease marked by the clinical picture of chronic coronary insufficiency and 25 persons forming a control group were examined Polycardiography, aortic and arterial rheocardiography, and tele-electrocardiography were used. A follow-up of the functional condition of the cardiovascular system makes it possible to detect signs of the development of its reserve possibilities under the effect of long-term remedial gymnastics. Favourable shifts in the functional ability of the cardiovascular system may be only produced after long-term (12 months) remedial gymnastics performed regularly and with sufficient physical exertion, including walking and running.", "PMID": 439613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4656", "title": "[State of hemostasis and blood rheology in congestive circulatory insufficiency].", "content": "One hundred and ninety-eight patients with congestive circulatory insufficiency were examined; 54 had stage IIA, 88 stage IIB, and 56 stage III of the disease. Blood viscosity, blood platelet and erythrocyte aggregation, fibrinogen disintegration products, and soluble fibrin were determined and the protamine sulfate test was performed. Statistically significant reduction of hematocrit, increase of erythrocyte aggregation, dysfunction of blood platelets, and increase in the content of products of fibrinogen and fibrin disintegration were revealed with progression of congestive circulatory insufficiency. These changes are evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation in such patients and are important in prognostication.", "contents": "[State of hemostasis and blood rheology in congestive circulatory insufficiency]. One hundred and ninety-eight patients with congestive circulatory insufficiency were examined; 54 had stage IIA, 88 stage IIB, and 56 stage III of the disease. Blood viscosity, blood platelet and erythrocyte aggregation, fibrinogen disintegration products, and soluble fibrin were determined and the protamine sulfate test was performed. Statistically significant reduction of hematocrit, increase of erythrocyte aggregation, dysfunction of blood platelets, and increase in the content of products of fibrinogen and fibrin disintegration were revealed with progression of congestive circulatory insufficiency. These changes are evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation in such patients and are important in prognostication.", "PMID": 439614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4657", "title": "[Presystolic change in the length of the ischemic, border and distant myocardial areas in experimental coronary insufficiency and the action of inderal and metacin].", "content": "Changes in the presystolic length in the phase of late diastole and in the size of active shortening in the phase of ejection were determined in the ischemic area and in areas of the myocardium bordering upon and in those remote from the focus of ischemia in acute experiments on the 20th and 60th seconds of reversible clamping of the coronary artery. Marked increase in the presystolic length and size of active shortening of the remote areas was noted by the 20th second. In the ischemic zone these values decreased. Due to the effect of a therapeutic dose of inderal, the intensifying reaction of the remote areas diminished markedly and the unfavourable effect of ischemia on the stretching and shortening functions of the ischemic zone became somewhat weaker. Metacin caused no such effect.", "contents": "[Presystolic change in the length of the ischemic, border and distant myocardial areas in experimental coronary insufficiency and the action of inderal and metacin]. Changes in the presystolic length in the phase of late diastole and in the size of active shortening in the phase of ejection were determined in the ischemic area and in areas of the myocardium bordering upon and in those remote from the focus of ischemia in acute experiments on the 20th and 60th seconds of reversible clamping of the coronary artery. Marked increase in the presystolic length and size of active shortening of the remote areas was noted by the 20th second. In the ischemic zone these values decreased. Due to the effect of a therapeutic dose of inderal, the intensifying reaction of the remote areas diminished markedly and the unfavourable effect of ischemia on the stretching and shortening functions of the ischemic zone became somewhat weaker. Metacin caused no such effect.", "PMID": 439615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4658", "title": "[Topography of orbital lymphomas (author's transl)].", "content": "In 15 cases of orbital lymphoma topographic characteristics are demonstrated by contact B-scan ultrasonography as follows: The tumour is only infiltrating some single structures of the orbit as muscles. Tenon's membrane, lacrimal gland and the peripheral orbital space. Such enables the examiner, to take an excision exact in this point, where the tumour is located. The problems in differentiating lymphomas from other pseudotumours and from sarcomas by echography are discussed.", "contents": "[Topography of orbital lymphomas (author's transl)]. In 15 cases of orbital lymphoma topographic characteristics are demonstrated by contact B-scan ultrasonography as follows: The tumour is only infiltrating some single structures of the orbit as muscles. Tenon's membrane, lacrimal gland and the peripheral orbital space. Such enables the examiner, to take an excision exact in this point, where the tumour is located. The problems in differentiating lymphomas from other pseudotumours and from sarcomas by echography are discussed.", "PMID": 439691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4659", "title": "[Aetiology and therapy of Mooren's ulcer (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is given of 34 cases of Ulcus rodens of the eye (Mooren), which were examined and treaded during a period of five years in Togo, West Africa. The cases were divided into two groups according to the development of the disease. In fourteen cases the progress of the disease was arrested by local treatment (described individually for each eye), and by simultaneous treatment of the Helminthosis (Ascaris lumbricoides and Ankylostoma duodenale), from which the patients were also suffering. It seems likely that Ulcus rodens is caused by an antigen-antibody reaction to Helminth toxins.", "contents": "[Aetiology and therapy of Mooren's ulcer (author's transl)]. A report is given of 34 cases of Ulcus rodens of the eye (Mooren), which were examined and treaded during a period of five years in Togo, West Africa. The cases were divided into two groups according to the development of the disease. In fourteen cases the progress of the disease was arrested by local treatment (described individually for each eye), and by simultaneous treatment of the Helminthosis (Ascaris lumbricoides and Ankylostoma duodenale), from which the patients were also suffering. It seems likely that Ulcus rodens is caused by an antigen-antibody reaction to Helminth toxins.", "PMID": 439692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4660", "title": "[The artificial epithelium in chronic corneal diseases and to avoid emergency keratoplasty (author's transl)].", "content": "Report on the treatment of 41 patients in the last 10 years. In chronic corneal diseases epikeratoprosthesis is possible when every other therapy failed. With growing experience functional results are better and complications seldom. Since several years we use glued-on contact lenses in acute ulcers too in order to avoid emergency keratoplasty. When suitable donor material is missing or if plastic surgery of the eye lids is necessary the artificial epithelium prevents ulcer perforation as a mechanical collagenase inhibitor. The anterior chamber can be reinstalled in perforated ulcers by sealing with cyanoacrylate glue and covering with artificial epithelium. A corticosteroid therapy of the iritis becomes possible to avoid the frequent complication of anterior synechia in later keratoplasty. By reducing the steroid dosis vascularisation of the ulcer is reached and a corneal grafting can be evaded sometimes if the prognosis of keratoplasty is poor or the central cornea is clear such as in ulcers near the limbus.", "contents": "[The artificial epithelium in chronic corneal diseases and to avoid emergency keratoplasty (author's transl)]. Report on the treatment of 41 patients in the last 10 years. In chronic corneal diseases epikeratoprosthesis is possible when every other therapy failed. With growing experience functional results are better and complications seldom. Since several years we use glued-on contact lenses in acute ulcers too in order to avoid emergency keratoplasty. When suitable donor material is missing or if plastic surgery of the eye lids is necessary the artificial epithelium prevents ulcer perforation as a mechanical collagenase inhibitor. The anterior chamber can be reinstalled in perforated ulcers by sealing with cyanoacrylate glue and covering with artificial epithelium. A corticosteroid therapy of the iritis becomes possible to avoid the frequent complication of anterior synechia in later keratoplasty. By reducing the steroid dosis vascularisation of the ulcer is reached and a corneal grafting can be evaded sometimes if the prognosis of keratoplasty is poor or the central cornea is clear such as in ulcers near the limbus.", "PMID": 439693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4661", "title": "[Keratoconjunctivitis sicca caused by denervation of lacrimal gland (author's transl)].", "content": "An irreversible, unilateral keratoconjunctivitis sicca developed in a healthy 16-year-old female patient due to traumatic denervation of the lacrimal gland after oto-basal skull fracture with reversible complete peripheral facial paralysis, the corneal sensitivity remaining normal. This observation and other reports on keratoconjunctivitis sicca caused by isolated lacrimal gland insufficiency indicate the physiological importance of the main lacrimal gland as indispensable part of the secretory tear system.", "contents": "[Keratoconjunctivitis sicca caused by denervation of lacrimal gland (author's transl)]. An irreversible, unilateral keratoconjunctivitis sicca developed in a healthy 16-year-old female patient due to traumatic denervation of the lacrimal gland after oto-basal skull fracture with reversible complete peripheral facial paralysis, the corneal sensitivity remaining normal. This observation and other reports on keratoconjunctivitis sicca caused by isolated lacrimal gland insufficiency indicate the physiological importance of the main lacrimal gland as indispensable part of the secretory tear system.", "PMID": 439694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4662", "title": "[Correcture of keratoconus with contact lenses made from HEMA and gas permeable materials (author's transl)].", "content": "After discussing the oxygen demand of the cornea the relevance is shown on basis of 100 patients who wear normal HEMA-lenses in contrast to 100 patients with ultra-thin-lenses, and after doing so it is stated that as well cornea curvations as well as refractions are hardly changed by the wear of ultra-thin contact lenses. These ultra-thin soft lenses have proved extremely successful in case of visual defects ranging from - 16,0 to + 16,0 dioptrics. The use of ultra-thin soft lenses has not proved successful in case of heavy astigmatism and keratoconus. In these cases lenses made from Polycon and BPflex were used, which proved very compatible and have corrigated the visual defect in the best way possible. Also here a comparativing research of 100 patients with PMMA-lenses and 100 patients with Polycon and BPflex-lenses has proved a successful fit and possiblity of correcture of these beforesaid visual defects.", "contents": "[Correcture of keratoconus with contact lenses made from HEMA and gas permeable materials (author's transl)]. After discussing the oxygen demand of the cornea the relevance is shown on basis of 100 patients who wear normal HEMA-lenses in contrast to 100 patients with ultra-thin-lenses, and after doing so it is stated that as well cornea curvations as well as refractions are hardly changed by the wear of ultra-thin contact lenses. These ultra-thin soft lenses have proved extremely successful in case of visual defects ranging from - 16,0 to + 16,0 dioptrics. The use of ultra-thin soft lenses has not proved successful in case of heavy astigmatism and keratoconus. In these cases lenses made from Polycon and BPflex were used, which proved very compatible and have corrigated the visual defect in the best way possible. Also here a comparativing research of 100 patients with PMMA-lenses and 100 patients with Polycon and BPflex-lenses has proved a successful fit and possiblity of correcture of these beforesaid visual defects.", "PMID": 439695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4663", "title": "[Improvement of fixation by early Fadenoperation (clinical and experimental observations) (author's transl)].", "content": "17 children aged 6 months to 2 1/2 years with strabismus convergence, amblyopia and overconvergence were treated with Fadenoperation on the medial rectus of the deviating eye, after therapy with occlusion had not been tolerated. In all cases tolerance of the occlusion had been achieved, central fixation in 15, unrestricted abduction in 9 children. The period of observation ranged from 18 to 24 months. Repeated controls after Fadenoperation on infantile rabbit's eyes and echografic measurements on 6 patients have stated that there is no danger of a restriction in the bulbus growth. As late retinal complication following Fadenoperation cannot be excluded, a serious indication is recommended.", "contents": "[Improvement of fixation by early Fadenoperation (clinical and experimental observations) (author's transl)]. 17 children aged 6 months to 2 1/2 years with strabismus convergence, amblyopia and overconvergence were treated with Fadenoperation on the medial rectus of the deviating eye, after therapy with occlusion had not been tolerated. In all cases tolerance of the occlusion had been achieved, central fixation in 15, unrestricted abduction in 9 children. The period of observation ranged from 18 to 24 months. Repeated controls after Fadenoperation on infantile rabbit's eyes and echografic measurements on 6 patients have stated that there is no danger of a restriction in the bulbus growth. As late retinal complication following Fadenoperation cannot be excluded, a serious indication is recommended.", "PMID": 439696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4664", "title": "[First results with hydrophile tear duct prosthesis (author's transl)].", "content": "The author reports on a new tear duct prosthesis from hydrophile silicone. The advantage of this material is its hydrophilia absorbing the tears to the medial angle, and its softness preventing pressure necrosis and allowing an exact fixation in the medial angle of the lid. The implantation of the prosthesis in combination with conjunctivo-dacryocystotomy seems to be the best technique but also other techniques are demonstrated and discussed.", "contents": "[First results with hydrophile tear duct prosthesis (author's transl)]. The author reports on a new tear duct prosthesis from hydrophile silicone. The advantage of this material is its hydrophilia absorbing the tears to the medial angle, and its softness preventing pressure necrosis and allowing an exact fixation in the medial angle of the lid. The implantation of the prosthesis in combination with conjunctivo-dacryocystotomy seems to be the best technique but also other techniques are demonstrated and discussed.", "PMID": 439697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4665", "title": "[The pharmacocinetics of azlocillin (author's transl)].", "content": "Azlocillin concentrations in the rabbit eye were studied after intravenous and subconjunctival injections. The following results were found: therapeutic levels of Azlocillin were achieved in the aqueous humor, using either way of administration. Concentrations of the antibiotic were much higher after s. c. injection than after i. v. administration. The pharmacocinetics of Azlocillin proved to be comparable to those of other penicillins. No antibiotic could be detected in the vitreous body, irrespectively of the administration. With regard to the better antibacterial activity of Azlocillin in comparison with other known penicillins it should be preferred in eye infections caused by gramnegative rods, especially by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.", "contents": "[The pharmacocinetics of azlocillin (author's transl)]. Azlocillin concentrations in the rabbit eye were studied after intravenous and subconjunctival injections. The following results were found: therapeutic levels of Azlocillin were achieved in the aqueous humor, using either way of administration. Concentrations of the antibiotic were much higher after s. c. injection than after i. v. administration. The pharmacocinetics of Azlocillin proved to be comparable to those of other penicillins. No antibiotic could be detected in the vitreous body, irrespectively of the administration. With regard to the better antibacterial activity of Azlocillin in comparison with other known penicillins it should be preferred in eye infections caused by gramnegative rods, especially by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.", "PMID": 439698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4666", "title": "[Is a general operative prophylaxis of the fellow eye in cases of acute glaucoma necessary? (author's transl)].", "content": "The fellow eyes of 136 patients suffering from acute glaucoma were checked during their hospitalization by means of provocation-tests and gonioscopy. Ten cases had a simultaneous attack of both eyes, and 27 were submitted to a peripheral iridectomy prophylactically after a positive provocation-test. Of the remaining 99 patients observed up to 12 years after the operation only 22 developed an attack in the fellow eye; 11 of them were below the age of 60 years, and only 4 over 70.", "contents": "[Is a general operative prophylaxis of the fellow eye in cases of acute glaucoma necessary? (author's transl)]. The fellow eyes of 136 patients suffering from acute glaucoma were checked during their hospitalization by means of provocation-tests and gonioscopy. Ten cases had a simultaneous attack of both eyes, and 27 were submitted to a peripheral iridectomy prophylactically after a positive provocation-test. Of the remaining 99 patients observed up to 12 years after the operation only 22 developed an attack in the fellow eye; 11 of them were below the age of 60 years, and only 4 over 70.", "PMID": 439699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4667", "title": "[Concerning the Toti operative procedure (author's transl)].", "content": "It has been shown by a series of 127 dacryocystorhinostomies using the Toti technique, that this operation, which is independent of age or aethiology, can be performed using a simple procedure and a short hospitalization time. The success rate of over 90% indicates that this operation should be used as a standard procedure in preference to the intubation with polyethylene tubes.", "contents": "[Concerning the Toti operative procedure (author's transl)]. It has been shown by a series of 127 dacryocystorhinostomies using the Toti technique, that this operation, which is independent of age or aethiology, can be performed using a simple procedure and a short hospitalization time. The success rate of over 90% indicates that this operation should be used as a standard procedure in preference to the intubation with polyethylene tubes.", "PMID": 439700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4668", "title": "[The incidence of squinting in school beginners in Hamburg (author's transl)].", "content": "In 830 children medically examined at the time of beginning school 20% showed conditions which needed treatment or correction. From these children half had never been in ophthalmological treatment. We found a squint in 52 children (6.3%), and from these, 9 (17.3% of the squinters) showed microstrabismus. One squinter in five had never started ophthalmological treatment. Out of the non-squinting children, however, 15 out of 778 (1.9%) had amblyopia (6/12 or worse visual acuity). In 4 cases an organic condition was the cause of the reduced visual acuity. Among the squinters amblyopia was commoner--23 out of 52 cases (44.2%). From these 4 showed bilateral amblyopia.", "contents": "[The incidence of squinting in school beginners in Hamburg (author's transl)]. In 830 children medically examined at the time of beginning school 20% showed conditions which needed treatment or correction. From these children half had never been in ophthalmological treatment. We found a squint in 52 children (6.3%), and from these, 9 (17.3% of the squinters) showed microstrabismus. One squinter in five had never started ophthalmological treatment. Out of the non-squinting children, however, 15 out of 778 (1.9%) had amblyopia (6/12 or worse visual acuity). In 4 cases an organic condition was the cause of the reduced visual acuity. Among the squinters amblyopia was commoner--23 out of 52 cases (44.2%). From these 4 showed bilateral amblyopia.", "PMID": 439701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4669", "title": "[On the etiology and therapy of essential blepharospasm (author's transl)].", "content": "The etiology of essential blepharospasm is extraordinarily manifold and still not clarified in many instances. The therapeutic possibilities are as manifold and not always satisfactory. One of these surgical interventions consists in the dissection of the auriculo-temporal nerve shortly after its separation from the stem of the facial nerve. In 3 cases with particularly severe blepharospasm, a permanent therapeutic result which was satisfactory in every respect could be achieved in cooperation with an otorhinolaryngologist. For the ophthalmologist, a knowledge of the various therapeutic possibilities is of significance in order to adjust the treatment accordingly.", "contents": "[On the etiology and therapy of essential blepharospasm (author's transl)]. The etiology of essential blepharospasm is extraordinarily manifold and still not clarified in many instances. The therapeutic possibilities are as manifold and not always satisfactory. One of these surgical interventions consists in the dissection of the auriculo-temporal nerve shortly after its separation from the stem of the facial nerve. In 3 cases with particularly severe blepharospasm, a permanent therapeutic result which was satisfactory in every respect could be achieved in cooperation with an otorhinolaryngologist. For the ophthalmologist, a knowledge of the various therapeutic possibilities is of significance in order to adjust the treatment accordingly.", "PMID": 439702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4670", "title": "[Visual field in the Cushing syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "According to traditional opinion the basophile adenoma, in contrast to the eosinophile or chromophobe tumours of the hypophyse, practically never causes lesion of the chiasm. However, the case of a 16-year-old girl suffering from adiposis, hypertonia, striae distensae and a \"full moon face\" is used to demonstrate that through the precis examination of the visual field on the Goldmann perimeter even with normal disque of the optic nerve, normal sella turcica established by X-ray, and uncharacteristic hormon condition, a slight chiasmal lesion caused by pressure from below can be established.", "contents": "[Visual field in the Cushing syndrome (author's transl)]. According to traditional opinion the basophile adenoma, in contrast to the eosinophile or chromophobe tumours of the hypophyse, practically never causes lesion of the chiasm. However, the case of a 16-year-old girl suffering from adiposis, hypertonia, striae distensae and a \"full moon face\" is used to demonstrate that through the precis examination of the visual field on the Goldmann perimeter even with normal disque of the optic nerve, normal sella turcica established by X-ray, and uncharacteristic hormon condition, a slight chiasmal lesion caused by pressure from below can be established.", "PMID": 439703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4671", "title": "[Retinitis septica Roth (author's transl)].", "content": "The authors report on a case of retinitis septica Roth in a 27-year-old pregnant woman with septic pyelonephritis caused by enterobacter aerugines.", "contents": "[Retinitis septica Roth (author's transl)]. The authors report on a case of retinitis septica Roth in a 27-year-old pregnant woman with septic pyelonephritis caused by enterobacter aerugines.", "PMID": 439704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4672", "title": "[Influence of anticholinergic drugs on the intraocular tension of medicinally treated glaucoma simplex (author's transl)].", "content": "In 10 patients the influence of pizotifen on the intraocular tension of their medicinally treated open-angle glaucoma was examined. The clinical results and their statistical evaluation showed that anticholinergic drugs behaving pharmacologically like pizotifen do not impair conservative antiglaucomatous local treatment. Therefore, they may be used in cases of open-angle glaucoma.", "contents": "[Influence of anticholinergic drugs on the intraocular tension of medicinally treated glaucoma simplex (author's transl)]. In 10 patients the influence of pizotifen on the intraocular tension of their medicinally treated open-angle glaucoma was examined. The clinical results and their statistical evaluation showed that anticholinergic drugs behaving pharmacologically like pizotifen do not impair conservative antiglaucomatous local treatment. Therefore, they may be used in cases of open-angle glaucoma.", "PMID": 439705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4673", "title": "[Bupranolol eye-drops (Ophtorenin) in long-term therapy of glaucoma (author's transl)].", "content": "A clinical study with Bupranolol (Ophtorenin), a beta adrenergic blocking agent, is presented. 85 eyes with kinds species of glaucoma were treated during 22 months. A satisfying hypotensive effect was attained in a high percentage. Suitable combinations with Clonidine and Acetazolamide were tested. Based on its atoxic properties and lack of adverse reactions Bupranolol represents a valuable enlargement of glaucoma therapy.", "contents": "[Bupranolol eye-drops (Ophtorenin) in long-term therapy of glaucoma (author's transl)]. A clinical study with Bupranolol (Ophtorenin), a beta adrenergic blocking agent, is presented. 85 eyes with kinds species of glaucoma were treated during 22 months. A satisfying hypotensive effect was attained in a high percentage. Suitable combinations with Clonidine and Acetazolamide were tested. Based on its atoxic properties and lack of adverse reactions Bupranolol represents a valuable enlargement of glaucoma therapy.", "PMID": 439706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4674", "title": "[Experiences with continuous wear of silicone lenses (author's transl)].", "content": "Experiences with continuous wear of silicone lenses in 66 aphakic eyes are reported. By a careful fitting a long-term wearing has been obtained, the lenses were well tolerated in all cases. There was no vascularisation of the cornea. Three cases of temporary infiltration of the cornea have occured.", "contents": "[Experiences with continuous wear of silicone lenses (author's transl)]. Experiences with continuous wear of silicone lenses in 66 aphakic eyes are reported. By a careful fitting a long-term wearing has been obtained, the lenses were well tolerated in all cases. There was no vascularisation of the cornea. Three cases of temporary infiltration of the cornea have occured.", "PMID": 439707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4675", "title": "[Contact lenses and parachute jumping (author's transl)].", "content": "The wearing of corneal contact lenses during parachute jumping has not caused any impairment of vision or other problems in 18 jumps executed by the author. Thus corneal contact lenses can be tolerated for parachute jumping.", "contents": "[Contact lenses and parachute jumping (author's transl)]. The wearing of corneal contact lenses during parachute jumping has not caused any impairment of vision or other problems in 18 jumps executed by the author. Thus corneal contact lenses can be tolerated for parachute jumping.", "PMID": 439708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4676", "title": "[Cinematography of ocular fundus with a jointed optical system and tv or cine-camera (author's transl)].", "content": "A method of Cinematography of the ocular fundus is introduced which--by connecting a camera with an indirect ophthalmoscop--allows to record the monocular picture of the fundus as produced by the ophthalmic lens.", "contents": "[Cinematography of ocular fundus with a jointed optical system and tv or cine-camera (author's transl)]. A method of Cinematography of the ocular fundus is introduced which--by connecting a camera with an indirect ophthalmoscop--allows to record the monocular picture of the fundus as produced by the ophthalmic lens.", "PMID": 439709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4677", "title": "Renal and vascular activity of prolactin preparations. Contamination of prolactin preparations with ADH and implications on renal and vascular prolactin research.", "content": "Prolactin, as a \"broad spectrum hormone\", has been described to exert also vascular and renal actions in laboratory animals and in humans. However, prolactin preparations of various species are contaminated with neurohypophysial hormones (ADH, oxytocin) which possess vascular and renal activities. Antisera against ADH, oxytocin and prolactin are rather specific inactivators of the biologic activity of the respective hormone; the oxytocinasevasopressinase system of pregnancy plasma destroys ADH and oxytocin. Incubation-identification procedures with antisera against ADH, oxytocin and prolactin and with pregnancy plasma revealed that changes in blood pressure, urine flow and urinary osmolarity cannot be ascribed to prolactin per se but to the ADH impurity of prolactin preparations. Furthermore, recent metabolic studies in normally hydrated, overhydrate and dehydrated animals and humans have shown that prolactin does not affect renal water and electrolyte excretion. Thus, earlier reports on vascular and renal activity of prolactin in laboratory animals and humans should be viewed with great caution. Elimination of neurohypophysial hormone impurities of prolactin preparations by incubation with either ADH and oxytocin antisera or with pregnancy plasma provides techniques for better assessment of the real biologic effects of the prolactin molecule.", "contents": "Renal and vascular activity of prolactin preparations. Contamination of prolactin preparations with ADH and implications on renal and vascular prolactin research. Prolactin, as a \"broad spectrum hormone\", has been described to exert also vascular and renal actions in laboratory animals and in humans. However, prolactin preparations of various species are contaminated with neurohypophysial hormones (ADH, oxytocin) which possess vascular and renal activities. Antisera against ADH, oxytocin and prolactin are rather specific inactivators of the biologic activity of the respective hormone; the oxytocinasevasopressinase system of pregnancy plasma destroys ADH and oxytocin. Incubation-identification procedures with antisera against ADH, oxytocin and prolactin and with pregnancy plasma revealed that changes in blood pressure, urine flow and urinary osmolarity cannot be ascribed to prolactin per se but to the ADH impurity of prolactin preparations. Furthermore, recent metabolic studies in normally hydrated, overhydrate and dehydrated animals and humans have shown that prolactin does not affect renal water and electrolyte excretion. Thus, earlier reports on vascular and renal activity of prolactin in laboratory animals and humans should be viewed with great caution. Elimination of neurohypophysial hormone impurities of prolactin preparations by incubation with either ADH and oxytocin antisera or with pregnancy plasma provides techniques for better assessment of the real biologic effects of the prolactin molecule.", "PMID": 439776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4678", "title": "[Improved method for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (author's transl)].", "content": "Based on a sample of 953 subjects without known metabolic abnormalities and a sample of 186 diabetics a classification rule was developed by a quadratic discriminant analysis. The measurements of blood glucose 1 and 2 h after the oral administration of 100 g oligosaccharids are used to classify the patients into the categories of \"healthy\", \"suspect\" and \"diabetic\". The rates of false positive and false negative classification were estimated from a second sample of 128 non-diabetic and 73 diabetics. By administration of 100 g oligosaccharids these rates were found to be 3.1% and 0%, respectively. An analogous study for the administration of 100 g glucose was based on a different sample of N = 472, 99 diabetics included. Misclassification rates were found to be 1.6% and 2.7%, respectively. For practical application of the rules two-dimensional netplanes are given.", "contents": "[Improved method for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (author's transl)]. Based on a sample of 953 subjects without known metabolic abnormalities and a sample of 186 diabetics a classification rule was developed by a quadratic discriminant analysis. The measurements of blood glucose 1 and 2 h after the oral administration of 100 g oligosaccharids are used to classify the patients into the categories of \"healthy\", \"suspect\" and \"diabetic\". The rates of false positive and false negative classification were estimated from a second sample of 128 non-diabetic and 73 diabetics. By administration of 100 g oligosaccharids these rates were found to be 3.1% and 0%, respectively. An analogous study for the administration of 100 g glucose was based on a different sample of N = 472, 99 diabetics included. Misclassification rates were found to be 1.6% and 2.7%, respectively. For practical application of the rules two-dimensional netplanes are given.", "PMID": 439777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4679", "title": "Alcohol metabolism in man: effect of intravenous fructose infusion on blood ethanol elimination rate following stimulation by phenobarbital treatment or chronic alcohol consumption.", "content": "The effect of phenobarbital (PB) pretreatment and of chronic alcoholism on blood ethanol elimination rate (BEER) was investigated in man. In order to gain additional information concerning the mechanism of possible changes BEER was determined before and during intravenous infusion of fructose, a compound known to increase the NADH-oxidizing capacity of the liver and thereby stimulating alcohol oxidation rate. Following PB-treatment (300 mg/day for 5-6 days, n = 8) a marked increase in unstimulated (U-) BEER was obtained. But the fructose stimulated (FS-) BEER was not significantly changed by PB-treatment. In chronic alcoholics (n = 15) U-BEER values above the upper limit (chi + 2 S D) obtained in healthy controls, were observed only when the time of sobriety was less than one week (n = 6). Values of FS-BEER in chronic alcoholics with increased basal alcohol oxidation rates were in the same range as those of healthy controls. In 5 out of the 6 alcoholics in whom the values were elevated on admission, BEER decreased significantly after withdrawal of alcohol for 2-4 weeks. Since FS-BEER was nearly identical in all conditions tested, the distinct changes in U-BEER are probably independent of changes in the activity of enzymes involved in alcohol oxidation. It is assumed that alcohol metabolism in man is mainly controlled by the rate of NADH reoxidation in the liver.", "contents": "Alcohol metabolism in man: effect of intravenous fructose infusion on blood ethanol elimination rate following stimulation by phenobarbital treatment or chronic alcohol consumption. The effect of phenobarbital (PB) pretreatment and of chronic alcoholism on blood ethanol elimination rate (BEER) was investigated in man. In order to gain additional information concerning the mechanism of possible changes BEER was determined before and during intravenous infusion of fructose, a compound known to increase the NADH-oxidizing capacity of the liver and thereby stimulating alcohol oxidation rate. Following PB-treatment (300 mg/day for 5-6 days, n = 8) a marked increase in unstimulated (U-) BEER was obtained. But the fructose stimulated (FS-) BEER was not significantly changed by PB-treatment. In chronic alcoholics (n = 15) U-BEER values above the upper limit (chi + 2 S D) obtained in healthy controls, were observed only when the time of sobriety was less than one week (n = 6). Values of FS-BEER in chronic alcoholics with increased basal alcohol oxidation rates were in the same range as those of healthy controls. In 5 out of the 6 alcoholics in whom the values were elevated on admission, BEER decreased significantly after withdrawal of alcohol for 2-4 weeks. Since FS-BEER was nearly identical in all conditions tested, the distinct changes in U-BEER are probably independent of changes in the activity of enzymes involved in alcohol oxidation. It is assumed that alcohol metabolism in man is mainly controlled by the rate of NADH reoxidation in the liver.", "PMID": 439778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4680", "title": "Influence of somatostatin on carbohydrate absorption in human small intestine.", "content": "Oral carbohydrate tolerance tests with xylose, galactose and lactose were performed. After an interval of at least 24 h the same tests were repeated following an i.v. bolus and during infusion of somatostatin. Somatostatin does not influence xylose absorption. However, absorption of galactose and lactose is significantly reduced (p less than 0.01/0.008) during somatostatin infusion. On the other hand, serum levels of galactose remain unchanged despite administration of somatostatin, when galactose is given parenterally. The results support the assumption that the absorption process in small intestine is affected by somatostatin. Possible effects of somatostatin on hormones regulating the intestinal absorption and on energy-depending carrier mechanisms are discussed.", "contents": "Influence of somatostatin on carbohydrate absorption in human small intestine. Oral carbohydrate tolerance tests with xylose, galactose and lactose were performed. After an interval of at least 24 h the same tests were repeated following an i.v. bolus and during infusion of somatostatin. Somatostatin does not influence xylose absorption. However, absorption of galactose and lactose is significantly reduced (p less than 0.01/0.008) during somatostatin infusion. On the other hand, serum levels of galactose remain unchanged despite administration of somatostatin, when galactose is given parenterally. The results support the assumption that the absorption process in small intestine is affected by somatostatin. Possible effects of somatostatin on hormones regulating the intestinal absorption and on energy-depending carrier mechanisms are discussed.", "PMID": 439779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4681", "title": "[Histopathology of the kidney in pseudo-Bartter's Syndrome induced by chronic abuse of diuretics (author's transl)].", "content": "A 38-year-old female patient developed a Pseudo-Bartter's-Syndrome with hypokalemic alkalosis, hyponatremia and hyperrenism as the result of the abuse of diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone, thiabutacide) for a period of more than 10 years. The needle biopsy specimen from the kidney showed a hyperplasia of the juxtaglomerular apparatus and of the mesangium cells as the morphologic basis of hyperrenism, a focal vacuolisation of the proximal tubular epithelium and a focal atrophy of the distal tubules. The pathogenesis of the tubular alterations and their possible relation to hypokalemia, hypoxemia or drug-toxicity is discussed, a satisfactory interpretation, however, cannot be given. The encroachment of proximal tubular epithelium on the parietal layer of Bowman's capsule is another striking pathoanatomical finding, and considered a compensatory mechanism under the continuous loss of water.", "contents": "[Histopathology of the kidney in pseudo-Bartter's Syndrome induced by chronic abuse of diuretics (author's transl)]. A 38-year-old female patient developed a Pseudo-Bartter's-Syndrome with hypokalemic alkalosis, hyponatremia and hyperrenism as the result of the abuse of diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone, thiabutacide) for a period of more than 10 years. The needle biopsy specimen from the kidney showed a hyperplasia of the juxtaglomerular apparatus and of the mesangium cells as the morphologic basis of hyperrenism, a focal vacuolisation of the proximal tubular epithelium and a focal atrophy of the distal tubules. The pathogenesis of the tubular alterations and their possible relation to hypokalemia, hypoxemia or drug-toxicity is discussed, a satisfactory interpretation, however, cannot be given. The encroachment of proximal tubular epithelium on the parietal layer of Bowman's capsule is another striking pathoanatomical finding, and considered a compensatory mechanism under the continuous loss of water.", "PMID": 439780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4682", "title": "Indomethacin induced hypotension in sodium and volume depleted rats.", "content": "After a single oral dose of 4 mg/kg indomethacin (IDM) to sodium and volume depleted rats plasma renin activity (PRA) and systolic blood pressure fell significantly within four hours. In sodium repleted animals indomethacin did not change systolic blood pressure (BP) although plasma renin activity was decreased. Thus, indomethacin by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis may diminish the blood pressure maintaining effect of the stimulated renin-angiotensin system in sodium and volume depletion.", "contents": "Indomethacin induced hypotension in sodium and volume depleted rats. After a single oral dose of 4 mg/kg indomethacin (IDM) to sodium and volume depleted rats plasma renin activity (PRA) and systolic blood pressure fell significantly within four hours. In sodium repleted animals indomethacin did not change systolic blood pressure (BP) although plasma renin activity was decreased. Thus, indomethacin by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis may diminish the blood pressure maintaining effect of the stimulated renin-angiotensin system in sodium and volume depletion.", "PMID": 439781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4683", "title": "[Plasma renin activity, plasma volume extracellular fluid volume and cardiac output in essential hypertension (author's transl)].", "content": "The plasma renin activity (PRA), the plasma volume (PV), the extracellular fluid volume (ECV), the cardiac output and the peripheral vascular resistance (TPR) were determined in 51 patients (14 women, 37 men) with essential hypertension of varying severity. The following findings were achieved: 1. In 9 of the 51 patients with essential hypertension (approximately 18%) a low and non-sensitive PRA was detected. 2. PV, ECV, cardiac output and the calculated peripheral vascular resistance of the essential hypertensive patients with low and non-sensitive PRA did not differ significantly from those of the essential hypertensive patients with normal or elevated PRA. 3. The hypertensive patients with low and nonsensitive PRA had the highest average arterial pressure. From these findings it can be concluded that the essential hypertensive patients with low PRA are not an homogeneous group. It is assumed that in a subgroup the elevated blood pressure may be the cause of the renin suppression.", "contents": "[Plasma renin activity, plasma volume extracellular fluid volume and cardiac output in essential hypertension (author's transl)]. The plasma renin activity (PRA), the plasma volume (PV), the extracellular fluid volume (ECV), the cardiac output and the peripheral vascular resistance (TPR) were determined in 51 patients (14 women, 37 men) with essential hypertension of varying severity. The following findings were achieved: 1. In 9 of the 51 patients with essential hypertension (approximately 18%) a low and non-sensitive PRA was detected. 2. PV, ECV, cardiac output and the calculated peripheral vascular resistance of the essential hypertensive patients with low and non-sensitive PRA did not differ significantly from those of the essential hypertensive patients with normal or elevated PRA. 3. The hypertensive patients with low and nonsensitive PRA had the highest average arterial pressure. From these findings it can be concluded that the essential hypertensive patients with low PRA are not an homogeneous group. It is assumed that in a subgroup the elevated blood pressure may be the cause of the renin suppression.", "PMID": 439783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4684", "title": "[Increase of force of concentration under hypoxic conditions by glucose-insulin. Experiments in isolated papillary muscles of the guinea pig (author's transl)].", "content": "The minimally remaining force of contraction under the influence of hypoxia was measured in isolated right-ventricular papillary muscles of the guinea-pig, incubated in hypoxic (pO2 90 mm Hg) and oxygenated (pO2 630 mm Hg) buffer solution. With insulin (0.05 IE/ml) and elevated glucose (300 mg% compared to 100 mg%) the force of contraction fell to only 70 +/- 9% minimally instead of 38 +/- 11% (control, p less than 0,001). Elevated glucose or insulin alone had less pronounced effects which were not statistically significant for insulin. The results show an increase of tolerance against hypoxia of isolated papillary muscles under the influence of glucose and insulin.", "contents": "[Increase of force of concentration under hypoxic conditions by glucose-insulin. Experiments in isolated papillary muscles of the guinea pig (author's transl)]. The minimally remaining force of contraction under the influence of hypoxia was measured in isolated right-ventricular papillary muscles of the guinea-pig, incubated in hypoxic (pO2 90 mm Hg) and oxygenated (pO2 630 mm Hg) buffer solution. With insulin (0.05 IE/ml) and elevated glucose (300 mg% compared to 100 mg%) the force of contraction fell to only 70 +/- 9% minimally instead of 38 +/- 11% (control, p less than 0,001). Elevated glucose or insulin alone had less pronounced effects which were not statistically significant for insulin. The results show an increase of tolerance against hypoxia of isolated papillary muscles under the influence of glucose and insulin.", "PMID": 439784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4685", "title": "Deposition of amyloid in the liver of hamsters: an enzyme-histochemical and electron-microscopical study.", "content": "In induced amyloidosis the amyloid was first deposited in the portal areas, then in the centre of the lobule and disseminated through it in the spaces of Disse. No intracellular amyloid was found in the predeposit phase. In the hepatic lobule both mononuclear phagocytes and hepatocytes showed a topographic relationship to the first deposits of amyloid. Some macrophages showed invaginations or vacuoles containing amyloid fibrils. Between the microvilli of hepatocytes, parallel amyloid fibrils occurred. Between the amyloid fibrils were 30-50 nm membrane-bounded spherical particles which may have been lipoprotein aggregates. There was no large-scale phagocytosis of amyloid during the induction period or after survival without casein treatment up to 18 weeks. Lysosomal enzyme activity was seen in the deposits of extracellular amyloid.", "contents": "Deposition of amyloid in the liver of hamsters: an enzyme-histochemical and electron-microscopical study. In induced amyloidosis the amyloid was first deposited in the portal areas, then in the centre of the lobule and disseminated through it in the spaces of Disse. No intracellular amyloid was found in the predeposit phase. In the hepatic lobule both mononuclear phagocytes and hepatocytes showed a topographic relationship to the first deposits of amyloid. Some macrophages showed invaginations or vacuoles containing amyloid fibrils. Between the microvilli of hepatocytes, parallel amyloid fibrils occurred. Between the amyloid fibrils were 30-50 nm membrane-bounded spherical particles which may have been lipoprotein aggregates. There was no large-scale phagocytosis of amyloid during the induction period or after survival without casein treatment up to 18 weeks. Lysosomal enzyme activity was seen in the deposits of extracellular amyloid.", "PMID": 439836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4686", "title": "Haemoglobin variants in mice.", "content": "Haemoglobin variants were studied in wild and laboratory house mice (Mus musculus), including standard and new inbred strains, using starch-gel electrophoretic technique. Single (Hbbs) or diffuse (Hbbd) types of haemoglobin were found in all of them. The embryonic haemoglobin pattern was different from although similar to that of the adult in all the strains. The haemoglobins revealed monomorphism in the inbred strains, while polymorphism was observed in non-inbred laboratory and wild mice.", "contents": "Haemoglobin variants in mice. Haemoglobin variants were studied in wild and laboratory house mice (Mus musculus), including standard and new inbred strains, using starch-gel electrophoretic technique. Single (Hbbs) or diffuse (Hbbd) types of haemoglobin were found in all of them. The embryonic haemoglobin pattern was different from although similar to that of the adult in all the strains. The haemoglobins revealed monomorphism in the inbred strains, while polymorphism was observed in non-inbred laboratory and wild mice.", "PMID": 439837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4687", "title": "Urolithiasis in the Sprague--Dawley rat.", "content": "A 7 year collection of calculi from short- and long-term studies with Sprague-Dawley rats showed that although the incidence of rats with urolithiasis was small (0.5%), the variety of sizes and composition of the calculi could be of general interest.", "contents": "Urolithiasis in the Sprague--Dawley rat. A 7 year collection of calculi from short- and long-term studies with Sprague-Dawley rats showed that although the incidence of rats with urolithiasis was small (0.5%), the variety of sizes and composition of the calculi could be of general interest.", "PMID": 439839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4688", "title": "Peak littering and the stud male in relation to virgin and remated female P(SD) mice.", "content": "Peak littering occurred on the 22nd day after pairing. The percentage of pregnancies from virgin females increased as the stud males became more experienced; their success with remated females showed a more varied and lower response.", "contents": "Peak littering and the stud male in relation to virgin and remated female P(SD) mice. Peak littering occurred on the 22nd day after pairing. The percentage of pregnancies from virgin females increased as the stud males became more experienced; their success with remated females showed a more varied and lower response.", "PMID": 439840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4689", "title": "Conjunctivitis in the nude rat (rnu/rnu).", "content": "Nude rats are susceptible to similar eye problems to those suffered by nude mice, notably conjunctivitis leading to periorbital abscesses. Pasteurella pneumotropica has been isolated from the conjunctiva. The condition can be alleviated by washing the eyes of mildly affected rats with warm water. More severe cases respond to treatment with ampicillin. Conjunctivitis has not appeared in a germ-free colony of nude rats.", "contents": "Conjunctivitis in the nude rat (rnu/rnu). Nude rats are susceptible to similar eye problems to those suffered by nude mice, notably conjunctivitis leading to periorbital abscesses. Pasteurella pneumotropica has been isolated from the conjunctiva. The condition can be alleviated by washing the eyes of mildly affected rats with warm water. More severe cases respond to treatment with ampicillin. Conjunctivitis has not appeared in a germ-free colony of nude rats.", "PMID": 439841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4690", "title": "A radio-controlled live trap.", "content": "A live trap, designed to drop a net by radio control, was constructed to capture small wild mammals and birds. Advantages of the radio-controlled trap included capabilities to select and trap only the species desired, collect animals immediately after capture, eliminate injuries during capture and operate from a protected area a distance from the trap.", "contents": "A radio-controlled live trap. A live trap, designed to drop a net by radio control, was constructed to capture small wild mammals and birds. Advantages of the radio-controlled trap included capabilities to select and trap only the species desired, collect animals immediately after capture, eliminate injuries during capture and operate from a protected area a distance from the trap.", "PMID": 439843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4691", "title": "Blood sampling and intravenous injections in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).", "content": "The suitability of five different sites (brachial, jugular, caudal tibial vein, external dorsal thoracic vein and the heart) were examined for blood sampling and intravenous injections in Japanese quail. In terms of safety, ease of collection, repeated collections or injections, the jugular vein was found to be the most suitable.", "contents": "Blood sampling and intravenous injections in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). The suitability of five different sites (brachial, jugular, caudal tibial vein, external dorsal thoracic vein and the heart) were examined for blood sampling and intravenous injections in Japanese quail. In terms of safety, ease of collection, repeated collections or injections, the jugular vein was found to be the most suitable.", "PMID": 439844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4692", "title": "Dissection hood to control irritating fumes and vapors in biological research.", "content": "A small exhaust hood was designed and constructed of clear acrylic plastic for use within a biological research environment. The hood's primary function was to draw irritating vapors away from the user's breathing zone and into an exhaust system. The hood was of simple construction.", "contents": "Dissection hood to control irritating fumes and vapors in biological research. A small exhaust hood was designed and constructed of clear acrylic plastic for use within a biological research environment. The hood's primary function was to draw irritating vapors away from the user's breathing zone and into an exhaust system. The hood was of simple construction.", "PMID": 439845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4693", "title": "General anesthesia in pigs.", "content": "Conventional swine weighing 20-45 kg were anesthetized for surgical procedures. After fasting for 24 hours, ketamine hydrochloride and xylazine were administered intramuscularly. Following tracheal intubation, sodium thiopental was administered via the aural or femoral vein.", "contents": "General anesthesia in pigs. Conventional swine weighing 20-45 kg were anesthetized for surgical procedures. After fasting for 24 hours, ketamine hydrochloride and xylazine were administered intramuscularly. Following tracheal intubation, sodium thiopental was administered via the aural or femoral vein.", "PMID": 439846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4694", "title": "Partial oculocutaneous albinism in Mystromys albicaudatus: nonhomology with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome.", "content": "Partially albinic Mystromys albicaudatus were examined to determine if the condition in these animals was homologous with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome. Tissues and cells from partially albinic and normal Mystromys albicaudatus were studied by light and electron microscopy. No evidence of cytoplasmic granule enlargement, which is characteristic of the Chediak-Higashi syndrome, was detected in the cells of the partially albinic rats when compared to controls. It was concluded that the inherited condition of partial albinism of Mystromys albicaudatus was not homologous with the inherited partially albinic disease known as the Chediak-Higashi syndrome.", "contents": "Partial oculocutaneous albinism in Mystromys albicaudatus: nonhomology with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome. Partially albinic Mystromys albicaudatus were examined to determine if the condition in these animals was homologous with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome. Tissues and cells from partially albinic and normal Mystromys albicaudatus were studied by light and electron microscopy. No evidence of cytoplasmic granule enlargement, which is characteristic of the Chediak-Higashi syndrome, was detected in the cells of the partially albinic rats when compared to controls. It was concluded that the inherited condition of partial albinism of Mystromys albicaudatus was not homologous with the inherited partially albinic disease known as the Chediak-Higashi syndrome.", "PMID": 439847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4695", "title": "Organ weights and organ:body weight ratios of the African white-tailed rat (Mystromys albicaudatus).", "content": "Fifty-three adult female and 51 adult male white-tailed rats (Mystromys albicaudatus) were killed with ether and weighed; the spleen, kidneys, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, brain and gonads were dissected free of adhering tissue and weighted. The mean absolute organ weight and organ:body weight ratios by sex and organ were calculated and compared. The male rats were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) heavier. The mean weight of the males was 110.0 +/- 23.8 g versus 82.9 +/- 16.1 g for the females. The absolute weights of the heart, liver and kidneys were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) greater for the males. The organ:body weight ratios, except for heart and brain (excluding ovary and testicle), were unaffected by sex. The heart to body weight ratio and the brain to body weight ratio were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) larger in female rats.", "contents": "Organ weights and organ:body weight ratios of the African white-tailed rat (Mystromys albicaudatus). Fifty-three adult female and 51 adult male white-tailed rats (Mystromys albicaudatus) were killed with ether and weighed; the spleen, kidneys, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, brain and gonads were dissected free of adhering tissue and weighted. The mean absolute organ weight and organ:body weight ratios by sex and organ were calculated and compared. The male rats were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) heavier. The mean weight of the males was 110.0 +/- 23.8 g versus 82.9 +/- 16.1 g for the females. The absolute weights of the heart, liver and kidneys were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) greater for the males. The organ:body weight ratios, except for heart and brain (excluding ovary and testicle), were unaffected by sex. The heart to body weight ratio and the brain to body weight ratio were significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) larger in female rats.", "PMID": 439848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4696", "title": "Total lung capacity of baboons and humans determined by planimetry of radiographs.", "content": "Total lung capacity and radiographic lung area of 25 young and 7 aged baboons (Papio cynocephalus) and seven nonsmoking young adult men were measured. For all subjects, total lung capacity and radiographic lung area raised to the 3/2 power were shown to be highly correlated (r = 0.995). The regression equation for this relationship was total lung capacity (ml) = 78 + 0.234 x radiographic lung area (1.5) (cm2). A more useful regression equation for predicting values of total lung capacity was found to be log total lung capacity = -0.3819 + 1.4153 x log radiographic lung area (r = 0.993), because the standard error of estimate remains a constant percentage of Y values (+/- 12%). Total lung capacity and radiographic lung area were also highly correlated with height, weight and arm span of young baboons and men (r greater than 0.92), but the lungs of aged baboons were disproportionately larger.", "contents": "Total lung capacity of baboons and humans determined by planimetry of radiographs. Total lung capacity and radiographic lung area of 25 young and 7 aged baboons (Papio cynocephalus) and seven nonsmoking young adult men were measured. For all subjects, total lung capacity and radiographic lung area raised to the 3/2 power were shown to be highly correlated (r = 0.995). The regression equation for this relationship was total lung capacity (ml) = 78 + 0.234 x radiographic lung area (1.5) (cm2). A more useful regression equation for predicting values of total lung capacity was found to be log total lung capacity = -0.3819 + 1.4153 x log radiographic lung area (r = 0.993), because the standard error of estimate remains a constant percentage of Y values (+/- 12%). Total lung capacity and radiographic lung area were also highly correlated with height, weight and arm span of young baboons and men (r greater than 0.92), but the lungs of aged baboons were disproportionately larger.", "PMID": 439849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4697", "title": "A visual display board used for efficient breeding and utilization of an athymic (nude) mouse colony.", "content": "A visual display board was designed to aid in the management of a barrier sustained athymic (nude) mouse colony. The board displayed pertinent information for breeding and weaning, including phenotype and age for each animal in the colony. In addition, the board showed the availability and current status of experimental groups. This system provided an efficient means of organizing production and planning utilization of animals in the colony.", "contents": "A visual display board used for efficient breeding and utilization of an athymic (nude) mouse colony. A visual display board was designed to aid in the management of a barrier sustained athymic (nude) mouse colony. The board displayed pertinent information for breeding and weaning, including phenotype and age for each animal in the colony. In addition, the board showed the availability and current status of experimental groups. This system provided an efficient means of organizing production and planning utilization of animals in the colony.", "PMID": 439850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4698", "title": "A simple technique for rapid implantation of a permanent cannula into the rat brain ventricular system.", "content": "A simple, rapid method of implantation of a permanent cannula into the ventricular system of the rat brain was developed using polyethylene tubing. Intraventricular injections were performed on nonrestrained, conscious animals. This cannula was used repeatedly during several weeks.", "contents": "A simple technique for rapid implantation of a permanent cannula into the rat brain ventricular system. A simple, rapid method of implantation of a permanent cannula into the ventricular system of the rat brain was developed using polyethylene tubing. Intraventricular injections were performed on nonrestrained, conscious animals. This cannula was used repeatedly during several weeks.", "PMID": 439851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4699", "title": "Chronic intravenous infusion in the rat: a nonsurgical approach.", "content": "A rapid, simplified technique of intravenous catheterization of the unanesthetized rat was developed for continuous infusion. A 19-gauge thin-walled needle was inserted percutaneously into the dilated tail vein, and polyethylene tubing was advanced through the needle into the vein. The catheter was protected by wire mesh electrical sheathing taped securely to the tail. This approach eliminated the need for anesthesia and surgery which were traumatic to the animal and time consuming for the investigator. This method was used successfully in 32 rats given continous infusion for up to 5 days.", "contents": "Chronic intravenous infusion in the rat: a nonsurgical approach. A rapid, simplified technique of intravenous catheterization of the unanesthetized rat was developed for continuous infusion. A 19-gauge thin-walled needle was inserted percutaneously into the dilated tail vein, and polyethylene tubing was advanced through the needle into the vein. The catheter was protected by wire mesh electrical sheathing taped securely to the tail. This approach eliminated the need for anesthesia and surgery which were traumatic to the animal and time consuming for the investigator. This method was used successfully in 32 rats given continous infusion for up to 5 days.", "PMID": 439852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4700", "title": "Bronchoscopy in the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus).", "content": "A pediatric bronchoscope was modified for use in the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus) and has been used successfully to obtain biopsy specimens from these animals. Biopsy specimens were obtained by means of small forceps with visual control given by the modified bronchoscope.", "contents": "Bronchoscopy in the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus). A pediatric bronchoscope was modified for use in the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus) and has been used successfully to obtain biopsy specimens from these animals. Biopsy specimens were obtained by means of small forceps with visual control given by the modified bronchoscope.", "PMID": 439853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4701", "title": "Noninvasive measurement of bone mineral mass in the unanesthetized rabbit.", "content": "Direct photon absorptiometry was used for the in vivo measurement of bone mineral mass in the rabbit tibia. Bone mineral mass in 124 male and female rabbits was correlated (p less than 0.001) with age to 26 weeks and weight to 5.5 kg. Examining reproducibility and repositioning error, three rabbits were measured 12 times each. Bone mineral mass in the three rabbits was: 0.432 +/- 0.020 g/cm2, 0.414 +/- 0.010 g/cm2 and 0.487 +/- 0.037 g/cm2. The greatest coefficients of variance observed for measurements without repositioning and measurements with repositioning were 4.8% and 7.6%, respectively. The technique provided sensitive, reproducible and noninvasive measurement of bone mineral mass without anesthesia or undue restraint.", "contents": "Noninvasive measurement of bone mineral mass in the unanesthetized rabbit. Direct photon absorptiometry was used for the in vivo measurement of bone mineral mass in the rabbit tibia. Bone mineral mass in 124 male and female rabbits was correlated (p less than 0.001) with age to 26 weeks and weight to 5.5 kg. Examining reproducibility and repositioning error, three rabbits were measured 12 times each. Bone mineral mass in the three rabbits was: 0.432 +/- 0.020 g/cm2, 0.414 +/- 0.010 g/cm2 and 0.487 +/- 0.037 g/cm2. The greatest coefficients of variance observed for measurements without repositioning and measurements with repositioning were 4.8% and 7.6%, respectively. The technique provided sensitive, reproducible and noninvasive measurement of bone mineral mass without anesthesia or undue restraint.", "PMID": 439854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4702", "title": "Structural distortion of glomerular capillary loops in the chronic phase of rat Masugi nephritis.", "content": "Structural distortion of glomerular capillaries in chronic rat Masugi nephritis was studied by light, transmission electron, and scanning electron microscopy. A few months after rats were given injections of heterologous nephrotoxic antibodies, focal and local mesangial as well as basement membrane thickenings were observed. Using scanning electron microscopy, glomerular corrosion castings disclosed that definite loop constriction with occasional gaps occurred in such local foci. The local changes were gradually extended to adjacent areas in rats with severe proteinuria, later resulting in a broad disappearance of the loops. Also observed were glomeruli undergoing a collapse with structural simplification resulting from multiple loss of communicating branches. At the terminal stage, almost all glomeruli were involved in varying degrees in either of these changes. In contrast, no progression of the disease process was observed in rats with minimal proteinuria. By scanning electron microscopy, a large number of castings from various angles revealed that morphologically normal glomeruli were involved in local and ultimately global obsolescence under the condition of persistent proteinuria.", "contents": "Structural distortion of glomerular capillary loops in the chronic phase of rat Masugi nephritis. Structural distortion of glomerular capillaries in chronic rat Masugi nephritis was studied by light, transmission electron, and scanning electron microscopy. A few months after rats were given injections of heterologous nephrotoxic antibodies, focal and local mesangial as well as basement membrane thickenings were observed. Using scanning electron microscopy, glomerular corrosion castings disclosed that definite loop constriction with occasional gaps occurred in such local foci. The local changes were gradually extended to adjacent areas in rats with severe proteinuria, later resulting in a broad disappearance of the loops. Also observed were glomeruli undergoing a collapse with structural simplification resulting from multiple loss of communicating branches. At the terminal stage, almost all glomeruli were involved in varying degrees in either of these changes. In contrast, no progression of the disease process was observed in rats with minimal proteinuria. By scanning electron microscopy, a large number of castings from various angles revealed that morphologically normal glomeruli were involved in local and ultimately global obsolescence under the condition of persistent proteinuria.", "PMID": 439855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4703", "title": "Silicate pneumoconiosis of farm workers.", "content": "Abnormal numbers of birefringent particles have been found in the lungs of seven patients (five vineyard workers, one farmer, and one rural resident) in association with a spectrum of early to late interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Nodular granulomas of the type seen in silicosis were absent. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis of 177 individual particles (less than 5 micrometer.) in situ in the lungs of four of the patients showed mostly silicates (notably aluminum, silicon, and potassium), with 5 to 10 per cent silicon dioxide. An analysis of particles less than 5 micrometer. from both vineyard and non-vineyard soil showed lung and soil particles to have a similar composition. The presence of large amounts of silicates in the lung tissues, in association with chronic inflammation and fibrosis, implicates the silicates in the causation of the fibrosis. The silicate deposits may, in large part, be a marker, reflecting a mixture of toxic soil additives or pesticides found in commercial clay silicate products or in dusts from the soil itself. The findings do not exclude lung pathology of a similar nature in regions outside of the farm.", "contents": "Silicate pneumoconiosis of farm workers. Abnormal numbers of birefringent particles have been found in the lungs of seven patients (five vineyard workers, one farmer, and one rural resident) in association with a spectrum of early to late interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Nodular granulomas of the type seen in silicosis were absent. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis of 177 individual particles (less than 5 micrometer.) in situ in the lungs of four of the patients showed mostly silicates (notably aluminum, silicon, and potassium), with 5 to 10 per cent silicon dioxide. An analysis of particles less than 5 micrometer. from both vineyard and non-vineyard soil showed lung and soil particles to have a similar composition. The presence of large amounts of silicates in the lung tissues, in association with chronic inflammation and fibrosis, implicates the silicates in the causation of the fibrosis. The silicate deposits may, in large part, be a marker, reflecting a mixture of toxic soil additives or pesticides found in commercial clay silicate products or in dusts from the soil itself. The findings do not exclude lung pathology of a similar nature in regions outside of the farm.", "PMID": 439858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4704", "title": "A correlated thin section and freeze-fracture study of mouse tracheal epithelium before and after ether anesthesia.", "content": "Tracheal epithelium of mice anesthetized with ethyl ether was studied in the electron microscope with the techniques of thin sectioning and freeze fracture. After ether anesthesia, alterations in the tight junction between epithelial cells were observed. In the control animals, the junctional strands were either parallel or had a polygonal arrangement of continuous solid strands. After anesthesia, the junctional strands became fragmented. Other specializations of the membrane of epithelial cells such as gap junctions and rectilinear entities were not altered by ether.", "contents": "A correlated thin section and freeze-fracture study of mouse tracheal epithelium before and after ether anesthesia. Tracheal epithelium of mice anesthetized with ethyl ether was studied in the electron microscope with the techniques of thin sectioning and freeze fracture. After ether anesthesia, alterations in the tight junction between epithelial cells were observed. In the control animals, the junctional strands were either parallel or had a polygonal arrangement of continuous solid strands. After anesthesia, the junctional strands became fragmented. Other specializations of the membrane of epithelial cells such as gap junctions and rectilinear entities were not altered by ether.", "PMID": 439859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4705", "title": "Analysis of the cores of ferruginous (asbestos) bodies from the general population. III. Patients with environmental exposure.", "content": "Typical asbestos bodies visible by light microscopy were isolated from the lungs of 29 persons with fewer than 100 such bodies per gram of lung, a level that is considered indicative of environmental rather than occupational asbestos exposure. Of 144 bodies examined by electron diffraction, 143 contained an amphibole asbestos core and one contained a chrysotile asbestos core. Thirty-five bodies from 21 patients were also analyzed by electron microprobe. Of these, 21 were chemically consistent with amosite or crocidolite asbestos, 13 with anthophyllite asbestos, and one with tremolite asbestos. Certain differences in chemical fiber types between men and women became apparent. Although cores of amosite and crocidolite predominated in men (12 of 14, 86 per cent), anthophyllite and tremolite comprised 57 per cent (12 of 21) of the cores found in women, a statistically significant difference. These differences suggest that the major commerical varieties of amphibole asbestos (amosite and crocidolite) are the source of the fibers in men, whereas in women a major source may be cosmetic talc, which is often contaminated with anthophyllite and tremolite. On the basis of this study and our previous studies, we conclude that almost all typical asbestos bodies from the lungs of the general population contain an amphibole asbestos core.", "contents": "Analysis of the cores of ferruginous (asbestos) bodies from the general population. III. Patients with environmental exposure. Typical asbestos bodies visible by light microscopy were isolated from the lungs of 29 persons with fewer than 100 such bodies per gram of lung, a level that is considered indicative of environmental rather than occupational asbestos exposure. Of 144 bodies examined by electron diffraction, 143 contained an amphibole asbestos core and one contained a chrysotile asbestos core. Thirty-five bodies from 21 patients were also analyzed by electron microprobe. Of these, 21 were chemically consistent with amosite or crocidolite asbestos, 13 with anthophyllite asbestos, and one with tremolite asbestos. Certain differences in chemical fiber types between men and women became apparent. Although cores of amosite and crocidolite predominated in men (12 of 14, 86 per cent), anthophyllite and tremolite comprised 57 per cent (12 of 21) of the cores found in women, a statistically significant difference. These differences suggest that the major commerical varieties of amphibole asbestos (amosite and crocidolite) are the source of the fibers in men, whereas in women a major source may be cosmetic talc, which is often contaminated with anthophyllite and tremolite. On the basis of this study and our previous studies, we conclude that almost all typical asbestos bodies from the lungs of the general population contain an amphibole asbestos core.", "PMID": 439861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4706", "title": "Proteolytic cleavage and structural transformation: their relationship in bacteriophage T4 capsid maturation.", "content": "Giant T4 phage capsoids formed in canavanine-treated cultures infected by phage mutants in genes 21 and 17, respectively, differ with regard to cleavage of the major capsid protein, gp23, and in the fine structure of their hexagonal surface lattices. Quantitative computer processing of electron micrographs shows that the significant differences in capsomer morphology amount to six symmetrically placed features present in the uncleaved hexamer but absent after cleavage. These features may be related with the N-terminal portions of gp23 monomers excised by phage-specific proteolysis. Cleaved 17- giants can be induced to undergo a further structural transformation (expansion). Structural characteristics of partially transformed giant particles give clues about the dynamics of the cleavage and expansion transformations. Both processes appear to be polar, initiating in one cap and propagating along the particle. The transition zone of partial cleavage is diffuse, whereas the transition between unexpanded and expanded areas is confined to a narrow band of some 20 nm width.", "contents": "Proteolytic cleavage and structural transformation: their relationship in bacteriophage T4 capsid maturation. Giant T4 phage capsoids formed in canavanine-treated cultures infected by phage mutants in genes 21 and 17, respectively, differ with regard to cleavage of the major capsid protein, gp23, and in the fine structure of their hexagonal surface lattices. Quantitative computer processing of electron micrographs shows that the significant differences in capsomer morphology amount to six symmetrically placed features present in the uncleaved hexamer but absent after cleavage. These features may be related with the N-terminal portions of gp23 monomers excised by phage-specific proteolysis. Cleaved 17- giants can be induced to undergo a further structural transformation (expansion). Structural characteristics of partially transformed giant particles give clues about the dynamics of the cleavage and expansion transformations. Both processes appear to be polar, initiating in one cap and propagating along the particle. The transition zone of partial cleavage is diffuse, whereas the transition between unexpanded and expanded areas is confined to a narrow band of some 20 nm width.", "PMID": 439892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4707", "title": "Tight junction development between cultured hepatoma cells: possible stages in assembly and enhancement with dexamethasone.", "content": "Freeze-fracture and thin-section methods were used to study tight junction formation between confluent H4-II-E hepatoma cells that were plated in monolayer culture in media with and without dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid. Three presumptive stages in the genesis of tight junctions were suggested by these studies: 1) \"formation zones\" (smooth P-fracture face ridges deficient in intramembranous particles), apparently matched across a partially reduced extracellular space, develop between adjacent cells; 2) linear strands and aggregates of 9--11 nm particles collect along the ridges of the formation zones. The extracellular space was always reduced when these structures were found matched with pits in gentle E-face depressions; 3) the linear arrays of particles on the ridges associate within the membranes to form the fibrils characteristic of mature tight junctions. The formation zones resemble tight junctions in terms of size, complexity and the patterns of membrane ridges. Although some of the beaded particle specializations may actually be gap junctions, it is unlikely that all can be interpreted in this way. No other membrane structures were detected that could represent developmental stages of tight junctions. Dexamethasone (at 2 x 10(-6)M) apparently stimulated formation of tight junctions. Treated cultures had a greater number of formation zones and mature tight junctions, although no differences in qualitative features of the junctions were noted.", "contents": "Tight junction development between cultured hepatoma cells: possible stages in assembly and enhancement with dexamethasone. Freeze-fracture and thin-section methods were used to study tight junction formation between confluent H4-II-E hepatoma cells that were plated in monolayer culture in media with and without dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid. Three presumptive stages in the genesis of tight junctions were suggested by these studies: 1) \"formation zones\" (smooth P-fracture face ridges deficient in intramembranous particles), apparently matched across a partially reduced extracellular space, develop between adjacent cells; 2) linear strands and aggregates of 9--11 nm particles collect along the ridges of the formation zones. The extracellular space was always reduced when these structures were found matched with pits in gentle E-face depressions; 3) the linear arrays of particles on the ridges associate within the membranes to form the fibrils characteristic of mature tight junctions. The formation zones resemble tight junctions in terms of size, complexity and the patterns of membrane ridges. Although some of the beaded particle specializations may actually be gap junctions, it is unlikely that all can be interpreted in this way. No other membrane structures were detected that could represent developmental stages of tight junctions. Dexamethasone (at 2 x 10(-6)M) apparently stimulated formation of tight junctions. Treated cultures had a greater number of formation zones and mature tight junctions, although no differences in qualitative features of the junctions were noted.", "PMID": 439893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4708", "title": "Differences in the redistribution of concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin binding sites on mouse neuroblastoma cells.", "content": "Concanavalin A (Con A), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and Ricinus communis agglutinin (RCA) bound with either 125I, fluorescent dyes, or fluorescent polymeric microspheres were used to quantitate and visualize the distribution of lectin binding sites on mouse neuroblastoma cells. As viewed by fluorescent light and scanning electron microscopy, over 10(7) binding sites for Con A, WGA, and RCA appeared to be distributed randomly over the surface of differentiated and undifferentiated cells. An energy-dependent redistribution of labeled sites into a central spot occurred when the cells were labeled with a saturating dose of fluorescent lectin and maintained at 37 degrees C for 60 min. Reversible labeling using appropriate saccharide inhibitors indicated that the labeled sites had undergone endocytosis by the cell. A difference in the mode of redistribution of WGA or RCA and Con A binding sites was observed in double labeling experiments. When less than 10% of the WGA or RCA lectin binding sites were labeled, only these labeled sites appeared to be removed from the cell surface. In contrast, when less than 10% of the Con A sites were labeled, both labeled and unlabeled Con A binding sites were removed from the cell surface. Cytochalasin B uncoupled the coordinate redistribution of labeled and unlabeled Con A sites, suggesting the involvement of microfilaments. Finally, double labeling experiments employing fluorescein-tagged Con A and rhodamine-tagged WGA indicate that most Con A and WGA binding sites reside on different membrane components and redistribute independenty of each other.", "contents": "Differences in the redistribution of concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin binding sites on mouse neuroblastoma cells. Concanavalin A (Con A), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and Ricinus communis agglutinin (RCA) bound with either 125I, fluorescent dyes, or fluorescent polymeric microspheres were used to quantitate and visualize the distribution of lectin binding sites on mouse neuroblastoma cells. As viewed by fluorescent light and scanning electron microscopy, over 10(7) binding sites for Con A, WGA, and RCA appeared to be distributed randomly over the surface of differentiated and undifferentiated cells. An energy-dependent redistribution of labeled sites into a central spot occurred when the cells were labeled with a saturating dose of fluorescent lectin and maintained at 37 degrees C for 60 min. Reversible labeling using appropriate saccharide inhibitors indicated that the labeled sites had undergone endocytosis by the cell. A difference in the mode of redistribution of WGA or RCA and Con A binding sites was observed in double labeling experiments. When less than 10% of the WGA or RCA lectin binding sites were labeled, only these labeled sites appeared to be removed from the cell surface. In contrast, when less than 10% of the Con A sites were labeled, both labeled and unlabeled Con A binding sites were removed from the cell surface. Cytochalasin B uncoupled the coordinate redistribution of labeled and unlabeled Con A sites, suggesting the involvement of microfilaments. Finally, double labeling experiments employing fluorescein-tagged Con A and rhodamine-tagged WGA indicate that most Con A and WGA binding sites reside on different membrane components and redistribute independenty of each other.", "PMID": 439895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4709", "title": "Cross-linkings between spectrin and band 3 in human erythroycte membranes.", "content": "A specific structural association between spectrin component 1 and band 3 in human erythrocyte membrane has been demonstrated by covalent cross-linkings, specific labeling, and the technique of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. A complex of 330,000 daltons, representing 1 + 3, was produced in mildly oxidized membranes at physiologic pH and isotonic conditions but not at hypotonic conditions ( less than 10 mM KCl or NaCl). The yield of this complex decreased dramatically as the monovalent cation concentration decreased from 90 mM to 30 mM. The presence of Mg++ or Ca++ (2 mM) at low ionic strength promoted 1 + 3 cross-linking in an amount similar to that produced at isotonic conditions. The specific segment of band 3 involved in the cross-linking was also investigated by means of chymotrypsin digestion of band 3 in the intact red cells. The results showed the cross-links between spectrin component 1 and the 55,000-dalton fragment of band 3 at physiologic pH and isotonic conditions. This is consistent with the idea that band 3 is anchored on or contacted with the submembrane meshwork at the cytoplasmic membrane surface.", "contents": "Cross-linkings between spectrin and band 3 in human erythroycte membranes. A specific structural association between spectrin component 1 and band 3 in human erythrocyte membrane has been demonstrated by covalent cross-linkings, specific labeling, and the technique of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. A complex of 330,000 daltons, representing 1 + 3, was produced in mildly oxidized membranes at physiologic pH and isotonic conditions but not at hypotonic conditions ( less than 10 mM KCl or NaCl). The yield of this complex decreased dramatically as the monovalent cation concentration decreased from 90 mM to 30 mM. The presence of Mg++ or Ca++ (2 mM) at low ionic strength promoted 1 + 3 cross-linking in an amount similar to that produced at isotonic conditions. The specific segment of band 3 involved in the cross-linking was also investigated by means of chymotrypsin digestion of band 3 in the intact red cells. The results showed the cross-links between spectrin component 1 and the 55,000-dalton fragment of band 3 at physiologic pH and isotonic conditions. This is consistent with the idea that band 3 is anchored on or contacted with the submembrane meshwork at the cytoplasmic membrane surface.", "PMID": 439896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4710", "title": "Certain aspects of analysis of complement dependent antibody in breast cancer patients.", "content": "Specific anti-breast cancer complement dependent antibody (CDA) was sequentially determined in the sera of patients before and after mastectomy or during progressive recurrent breast cancer. Several observations were made. (1) There appears to be a different pattern of antigenic cross-reactivity detected by cancer patients' anti-tumor CDA than by their anti-tumor cell-mediated immunity; the former being broader than the latter. (2) Patients can be classified into three categories: those with persistent anti-tumor CDA pre- and post-mastectomy; those with detectable CDA post-mastectomy but not pre-mastectomy; and those with only occasionally detectable CDA. (3) Some sera obtained from patients with clinically evident tumor inhibited anti-tumor CDA found in the sera of other cancer patients. The significance of these results are discussed.", "contents": "Certain aspects of analysis of complement dependent antibody in breast cancer patients. Specific anti-breast cancer complement dependent antibody (CDA) was sequentially determined in the sera of patients before and after mastectomy or during progressive recurrent breast cancer. Several observations were made. (1) There appears to be a different pattern of antigenic cross-reactivity detected by cancer patients' anti-tumor CDA than by their anti-tumor cell-mediated immunity; the former being broader than the latter. (2) Patients can be classified into three categories: those with persistent anti-tumor CDA pre- and post-mastectomy; those with detectable CDA post-mastectomy but not pre-mastectomy; and those with only occasionally detectable CDA. (3) Some sera obtained from patients with clinically evident tumor inhibited anti-tumor CDA found in the sera of other cancer patients. The significance of these results are discussed.", "PMID": 439897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4711", "title": "Serum immunoglobulins in breast cancer.", "content": "Eighty-one women admitted for breast tumor biopsy have been followed sequentially for 12 months. Thirty-one women had clinical stage I and II breast cancer and 50 had benign breast disease. All these women had serum immunoglobulin IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE levels measured by immunodiffusion and radioimmunoassay preoperatively, two weeks postoperatively, then three months, six months, nine months and twelve months postoperatively. Significant differences were found in IgA and IgG levels preoperatively in the cancer group while no differences were found in IgM or IgE levels at any time. There was positive correlation between the extent of metastatic breast cancer and IgA level. There was negative correlation between the extent of metastatic breast cancer and IgM levels. These findings raise the value of measuring the levels of immunoglobulins in patients with breast cancer as a guide to subclinical spread of the disease. The results may also support the hypothesis of the role of early immune defect in immunoglobulin metabolism in the pathogenesis of breast cancer.", "contents": "Serum immunoglobulins in breast cancer. Eighty-one women admitted for breast tumor biopsy have been followed sequentially for 12 months. Thirty-one women had clinical stage I and II breast cancer and 50 had benign breast disease. All these women had serum immunoglobulin IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE levels measured by immunodiffusion and radioimmunoassay preoperatively, two weeks postoperatively, then three months, six months, nine months and twelve months postoperatively. Significant differences were found in IgA and IgG levels preoperatively in the cancer group while no differences were found in IgM or IgE levels at any time. There was positive correlation between the extent of metastatic breast cancer and IgA level. There was negative correlation between the extent of metastatic breast cancer and IgM levels. These findings raise the value of measuring the levels of immunoglobulins in patients with breast cancer as a guide to subclinical spread of the disease. The results may also support the hypothesis of the role of early immune defect in immunoglobulin metabolism in the pathogenesis of breast cancer.", "PMID": 439898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4712", "title": "Autoantigens in breast cancer tissue.", "content": "Two antigens in specimens of human breast cancer have been identified as autoantigens. One antigen appears to be an IgG Fc fragment; the other, an IgG Fab fragment. Antibodies in sera of cancer patients directed against these antigens have also been identified. These autoantibodies occur in patients with breast cancer as well as other cancers, and rarely in patients with non-cancerous disease or in people screened in a detection center for breast diseases. The breast cancer patient found to have antibody directed against the IgG Fab antigen falls into a group that has improved two-year survival statistics over groups of patients who lack this antibody.", "contents": "Autoantigens in breast cancer tissue. Two antigens in specimens of human breast cancer have been identified as autoantigens. One antigen appears to be an IgG Fc fragment; the other, an IgG Fab fragment. Antibodies in sera of cancer patients directed against these antigens have also been identified. These autoantibodies occur in patients with breast cancer as well as other cancers, and rarely in patients with non-cancerous disease or in people screened in a detection center for breast diseases. The breast cancer patient found to have antibody directed against the IgG Fab antigen falls into a group that has improved two-year survival statistics over groups of patients who lack this antibody.", "PMID": 439899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4713", "title": "Tumoricidal effects of Mycobacterium ulcerans toxin on murine adenocarcinoma (C3HBA).", "content": "Fresh homogenized mammary gland adenocarcinoma (C3HBA) material was subcutaneously inoculated in the anterior right thigh of transplant host mice (C3H/HeJ). When tumors were palpable, the mice were separated into three groups. The test group received biweekly intratumoral injections of Mycobacterium ulcerans filtrate containing 40 mg of protein per ml. One control group received intratumoral injections of normal physiological saline, and the remaining group received no treatment at all. The survival rate of toxin-treated animals was 13.5% at 15 weeks when compared with the control groups. Additionally, tumor metastasis was apparently abrogated in test animals when compared to the control animals. Marked necrosis of the tumors in the test animals was noted by histological examination. Controls showed slight to moderate degrees of tumor necrosis. In this model Mycobacterium ulcerans toxin appears to have therapeutic value as an antitumor agent.", "contents": "Tumoricidal effects of Mycobacterium ulcerans toxin on murine adenocarcinoma (C3HBA). Fresh homogenized mammary gland adenocarcinoma (C3HBA) material was subcutaneously inoculated in the anterior right thigh of transplant host mice (C3H/HeJ). When tumors were palpable, the mice were separated into three groups. The test group received biweekly intratumoral injections of Mycobacterium ulcerans filtrate containing 40 mg of protein per ml. One control group received intratumoral injections of normal physiological saline, and the remaining group received no treatment at all. The survival rate of toxin-treated animals was 13.5% at 15 weeks when compared with the control groups. Additionally, tumor metastasis was apparently abrogated in test animals when compared to the control animals. Marked necrosis of the tumors in the test animals was noted by histological examination. Controls showed slight to moderate degrees of tumor necrosis. In this model Mycobacterium ulcerans toxin appears to have therapeutic value as an antitumor agent.", "PMID": 439900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4714", "title": "Assessment of myelotoxic effects of chemotherapy from early leukopenic response: application of a mathematical model for granulopoiesis.", "content": "A recently developed model of the human granulpoietic system had been used to analyze the toxic effects of 5-fluorouracil administered to cancer patients. From this analysis there appeared to be a relationship between the level of the early leukopenic depression and the rate at which the drug kills cells in the marrow. In particular, it may be possible to estimate this kill rate from the extent of the maximal depression in the white blood count during the second or third week after treatment begins. This estimate may be useful when planning modifications in treatment in order to prevent the onset of hematologic crises.", "contents": "Assessment of myelotoxic effects of chemotherapy from early leukopenic response: application of a mathematical model for granulopoiesis. A recently developed model of the human granulpoietic system had been used to analyze the toxic effects of 5-fluorouracil administered to cancer patients. From this analysis there appeared to be a relationship between the level of the early leukopenic depression and the rate at which the drug kills cells in the marrow. In particular, it may be possible to estimate this kill rate from the extent of the maximal depression in the white blood count during the second or third week after treatment begins. This estimate may be useful when planning modifications in treatment in order to prevent the onset of hematologic crises.", "PMID": 439901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4715", "title": "Explorations of antimitotic agents in the treatment of a congenital disease, ichthyosis linearis circumflexa.", "content": "Successful therapy of a genetic disorder, Ichthyosis Linearis Circumflexa, was achieved using a low dose systemic cyclophosphamide. Prior to such therapy, 80 to 90% of the body surface was affected; the use of antimitotic agents reduced the extent of the lesions to less than 15% of the body surface. As a result, the clinical status was changed from severely disabling to being compatible with a normal way of life. It is believed that this phenomenon is related to selective effects of cyclophosphamide, such as those on lymphocyte subpopulations. To our knowledge, successful chemotherapy for diseases of genetic or congenital origin has not been previously reported.", "contents": "Explorations of antimitotic agents in the treatment of a congenital disease, ichthyosis linearis circumflexa. Successful therapy of a genetic disorder, Ichthyosis Linearis Circumflexa, was achieved using a low dose systemic cyclophosphamide. Prior to such therapy, 80 to 90% of the body surface was affected; the use of antimitotic agents reduced the extent of the lesions to less than 15% of the body surface. As a result, the clinical status was changed from severely disabling to being compatible with a normal way of life. It is believed that this phenomenon is related to selective effects of cyclophosphamide, such as those on lymphocyte subpopulations. To our knowledge, successful chemotherapy for diseases of genetic or congenital origin has not been previously reported.", "PMID": 439902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4716", "title": "The spouse as facilitator for esophageal speech: a research perspective.", "content": "The role of the spouse in relation to the quality of esophageal speech of laryngectomized patients was investigated using psychodiagnostic instruments and speech ratings and through an assessment of the verbal interactions between the patient and spouse. Analysis of the results indicates that those speakers who were objectively judged to have higher quality speech and learned esophageal speech rapidly had spouses who were more likely to disagree verbally with them, addressed them in a way that encouraged long answers, and evidenced reciprocal compatibility for meeting affectional needs.", "contents": "The spouse as facilitator for esophageal speech: a research perspective. The role of the spouse in relation to the quality of esophageal speech of laryngectomized patients was investigated using psychodiagnostic instruments and speech ratings and through an assessment of the verbal interactions between the patient and spouse. Analysis of the results indicates that those speakers who were objectively judged to have higher quality speech and learned esophageal speech rapidly had spouses who were more likely to disagree verbally with them, addressed them in a way that encouraged long answers, and evidenced reciprocal compatibility for meeting affectional needs.", "PMID": 439903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4717", "title": "Cardiac surgery under age two years. A review.", "content": "To assess the current status and risks of both open and closed cardiac procedures for congenital heart disease in patients under the age of 2 years, we reviewed all cardiac catheterizations and cardiac operations done from January, 1974, through December, 1977, at The Children's Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. In this interval 370 patients under 2 years of age were catheterized. Eighty open procedures were performed in patients under 2 years of age, with seven hospital deaths. One hundred twenty-four closed heart procedures were performed on children under the age of 2 years, with eight deaths, for a hospital mortality rate of 6.5 percent. This review of consecutive cases over a 4 year period suggests that the judicious application of palliation or open repair using current techniques can lead to an overall mortality rate of between 6 and 7 percent for both open and closed heart procedures in children under 2 years of age. Since all deaths except one in the open-heart group occurred in patients with the most complex multiple defects, it seems reasonable to suggest that improved intraoperative and postoperative techniques have lowered the time for repair of straightforward congenital heart defects to under 2 years of age.", "contents": "Cardiac surgery under age two years. A review. To assess the current status and risks of both open and closed cardiac procedures for congenital heart disease in patients under the age of 2 years, we reviewed all cardiac catheterizations and cardiac operations done from January, 1974, through December, 1977, at The Children's Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. In this interval 370 patients under 2 years of age were catheterized. Eighty open procedures were performed in patients under 2 years of age, with seven hospital deaths. One hundred twenty-four closed heart procedures were performed on children under the age of 2 years, with eight deaths, for a hospital mortality rate of 6.5 percent. This review of consecutive cases over a 4 year period suggests that the judicious application of palliation or open repair using current techniques can lead to an overall mortality rate of between 6 and 7 percent for both open and closed heart procedures in children under 2 years of age. Since all deaths except one in the open-heart group occurred in patients with the most complex multiple defects, it seems reasonable to suggest that improved intraoperative and postoperative techniques have lowered the time for repair of straightforward congenital heart defects to under 2 years of age.", "PMID": 439918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4718", "title": "Repair of tetralogy of Fallot after Waterston anastomosis.", "content": "Sixty-three corrective operations have been performed in patients with Tetralogy of Fallot and a previously constructed Waterston shunt. The patients were from 1.4 to 8 years of age (median 4.3 years), and the mean interval between the Waterston shunt and the repair was 39.3 +/- 16.05 months. Three patients developed pulmonary atresia and six required a second anastomosis prior to intracardiac repair. Kinking and stenosis of the right pulmonary artery at the site of the Waterston anastomosis occurred in 12 (19 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 14 to 26 percent) patients who required patch enlargement of the right pulmonary artery at repair. Seven (11 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 7 to 17 percent) patients died in the hospital and three (5 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 2 to 11 percent) during the period of late follow-up. None of the early or late deaths was specifically related to the presence of the previously performed Waterston anastomosis.", "contents": "Repair of tetralogy of Fallot after Waterston anastomosis. Sixty-three corrective operations have been performed in patients with Tetralogy of Fallot and a previously constructed Waterston shunt. The patients were from 1.4 to 8 years of age (median 4.3 years), and the mean interval between the Waterston shunt and the repair was 39.3 +/- 16.05 months. Three patients developed pulmonary atresia and six required a second anastomosis prior to intracardiac repair. Kinking and stenosis of the right pulmonary artery at the site of the Waterston anastomosis occurred in 12 (19 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 14 to 26 percent) patients who required patch enlargement of the right pulmonary artery at repair. Seven (11 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 7 to 17 percent) patients died in the hospital and three (5 percent; 70 percent confidence limits 2 to 11 percent) during the period of late follow-up. None of the early or late deaths was specifically related to the presence of the previously performed Waterston anastomosis.", "PMID": 439919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4719", "title": "Taussig-Bing anomaly with straddling mitral valve.", "content": "Five patients with the left-sided or intermediate type (Lev) of the Taussig-Bing anomaly were found to have an associated straddling of the mitral valve. In four patients the anomaly of the mitral valve was not recognized preoperatively, and all four died postoperatively. The persistent subpulmonic obstruction caused by the abnormal attachment of the anterior mitral leaflet is considered a significant factor in the poor operative outcome. Retrospective study of angiograms in these four patients revealed diagnostic clues of straddling mitral valve which enabled us to diagnose a fifth patient angiographically and confirm the diagnosis by cross-sectional echocardiography. A surgical approach to correct this association of abnormalities is proposed which avoids operating upon the mitral valve. Its function is thereby preserved, yet the hemodynamic problem caused by the straddling is bypassed. The fifth patient in this series was successfully treated by the proposed operative method.", "contents": "Taussig-Bing anomaly with straddling mitral valve. Five patients with the left-sided or intermediate type (Lev) of the Taussig-Bing anomaly were found to have an associated straddling of the mitral valve. In four patients the anomaly of the mitral valve was not recognized preoperatively, and all four died postoperatively. The persistent subpulmonic obstruction caused by the abnormal attachment of the anterior mitral leaflet is considered a significant factor in the poor operative outcome. Retrospective study of angiograms in these four patients revealed diagnostic clues of straddling mitral valve which enabled us to diagnose a fifth patient angiographically and confirm the diagnosis by cross-sectional echocardiography. A surgical approach to correct this association of abnormalities is proposed which avoids operating upon the mitral valve. Its function is thereby preserved, yet the hemodynamic problem caused by the straddling is bypassed. The fifth patient in this series was successfully treated by the proposed operative method.", "PMID": 439920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4720", "title": "Further evaluation of the sutureless, screw-in electrode for cardiac pacing. Experience with first 300 implantations.", "content": "This report details our experience with 300 sutureless epicardial electrode implantations performed in the past 6 years. Indications for pacing, surgical approaches, implantation sites and complications are presented. The subxiphoid approach was valuable in obtaining safe, reliable, and long-term impulse generation. Complications have been few and of short duration. In general, pacing thresholds have been lower and sensitivity thresholds higher with left ventricular implantation than with right ventricular implantation. Endocarcial pacing is reserved for the very aged and debilitated patients, patients requiring implantation within 4 to 6 weeks of acute myocardial infarction, and for atrial or atrioventricular sequential pacing.", "contents": "Further evaluation of the sutureless, screw-in electrode for cardiac pacing. Experience with first 300 implantations. This report details our experience with 300 sutureless epicardial electrode implantations performed in the past 6 years. Indications for pacing, surgical approaches, implantation sites and complications are presented. The subxiphoid approach was valuable in obtaining safe, reliable, and long-term impulse generation. Complications have been few and of short duration. In general, pacing thresholds have been lower and sensitivity thresholds higher with left ventricular implantation than with right ventricular implantation. Endocarcial pacing is reserved for the very aged and debilitated patients, patients requiring implantation within 4 to 6 weeks of acute myocardial infarction, and for atrial or atrioventricular sequential pacing.", "PMID": 439921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4721", "title": "The mechanism of opening of the aortic valve.", "content": "The mechanism of opening of the aortic valve was investigated in dogs by attaching radiopaque markers to the commissures and the leaflets. Analysis of abnormal cardiac cycles demonstrated that, when the ventricular pressure first equalled the aortic pressure, the intercomissural distances increased 9 percent, and the valve opened with a stellate orifice without forward flow and without a rise in aortic pressure. Further opening of the aortic valve was dependent on forward flow over a narrow range. A new mechanism of aortic valve opening is proposed. This mechanism results in minimal flexion stresses on the leaflets and is important for the longevity of the normal aortic valve. It can occur only if the leaflets arise from an expansile aortic root.", "contents": "The mechanism of opening of the aortic valve. The mechanism of opening of the aortic valve was investigated in dogs by attaching radiopaque markers to the commissures and the leaflets. Analysis of abnormal cardiac cycles demonstrated that, when the ventricular pressure first equalled the aortic pressure, the intercomissural distances increased 9 percent, and the valve opened with a stellate orifice without forward flow and without a rise in aortic pressure. Further opening of the aortic valve was dependent on forward flow over a narrow range. A new mechanism of aortic valve opening is proposed. This mechanism results in minimal flexion stresses on the leaflets and is important for the longevity of the normal aortic valve. It can occur only if the leaflets arise from an expansile aortic root.", "PMID": 439922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4722", "title": "Acute renal failure following cardiac surgery.", "content": "In a prospective 6 month study of 204 patients requiring cardiac operations, five (2.5 percent) developed acute renal failure (ARF) and five (2.5 percent) had documented renal dysfunction (RD). Preoperative left ventricular dysfunction and prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were important predictors of subsequent RD/ARF; CPB pressure per se was not. Physiological and clinical studies in 51 selected patients studied over an 18 month period documented the effectiveness of low flow, low pressure CPB in preserving postoperative renal function. Twenty-two patients with nonazotemic postoperative courses demonstrated moderate depression of cardiac function while the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was normal (98 +/- 30 ml./min/1.73 M.2) within 24 hours of operation. Seventeen high risk patients developed AFF (65 percent mortality rate) and 12 experienced severe RD without ARF (17 percent mortality). ARF (65 percent mortality rate) and 12 experienced severe RD without ARF (17 percent mortality). Eleven patients with ARF and 11 with RD were studied in the early postoperative period; at this time, all 22 patients demonstrated RD with equivalent severe depression of cardiac and renal function. Superposition of further hemodynamic or toxic insults upon ischemic kidneys was usually necessary for ARF to occur.", "contents": "Acute renal failure following cardiac surgery. In a prospective 6 month study of 204 patients requiring cardiac operations, five (2.5 percent) developed acute renal failure (ARF) and five (2.5 percent) had documented renal dysfunction (RD). Preoperative left ventricular dysfunction and prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were important predictors of subsequent RD/ARF; CPB pressure per se was not. Physiological and clinical studies in 51 selected patients studied over an 18 month period documented the effectiveness of low flow, low pressure CPB in preserving postoperative renal function. Twenty-two patients with nonazotemic postoperative courses demonstrated moderate depression of cardiac function while the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was normal (98 +/- 30 ml./min/1.73 M.2) within 24 hours of operation. Seventeen high risk patients developed AFF (65 percent mortality rate) and 12 experienced severe RD without ARF (17 percent mortality). ARF (65 percent mortality rate) and 12 experienced severe RD without ARF (17 percent mortality). Eleven patients with ARF and 11 with RD were studied in the early postoperative period; at this time, all 22 patients demonstrated RD with equivalent severe depression of cardiac and renal function. Superposition of further hemodynamic or toxic insults upon ischemic kidneys was usually necessary for ARF to occur.", "PMID": 439924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4723", "title": "Effects of systemic hypothermia on myocardial metabolism and coronary blood flow in the fibrillating heart.", "content": "Ventricular fibrillation during normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass is deleterious to the myocardium. This study was undertaken to determine if moderate systemic hypothermia would protect the myocardium during ventricular fibrillation. Fourteen mongrel dogs were subjected to 1 hour, 15 minutes of total cardiopulmonary bypass. Ventricular fibrillation was induced by a continuous electrical alternating current applied at the beginning of bypass and lasting for 1 hour. Six animals were maintained at normothermia (Group I), and eight were cooled to 30 degrees C. for 1 hour (Group II). The hypothermic group (Group II) demonstrated lower myocardial oxygen consumption and metabolism, decreased coronary blood flow, and less myocardial lactate production during ventricular fibrillation than did Group I. It is concluded that hypothermia does offer some protection, although not complete, against the deleterious effects of ventricular fibrillation described previously.", "contents": "Effects of systemic hypothermia on myocardial metabolism and coronary blood flow in the fibrillating heart. Ventricular fibrillation during normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass is deleterious to the myocardium. This study was undertaken to determine if moderate systemic hypothermia would protect the myocardium during ventricular fibrillation. Fourteen mongrel dogs were subjected to 1 hour, 15 minutes of total cardiopulmonary bypass. Ventricular fibrillation was induced by a continuous electrical alternating current applied at the beginning of bypass and lasting for 1 hour. Six animals were maintained at normothermia (Group I), and eight were cooled to 30 degrees C. for 1 hour (Group II). The hypothermic group (Group II) demonstrated lower myocardial oxygen consumption and metabolism, decreased coronary blood flow, and less myocardial lactate production during ventricular fibrillation than did Group I. It is concluded that hypothermia does offer some protection, although not complete, against the deleterious effects of ventricular fibrillation described previously.", "PMID": 439925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4724", "title": "Comparative study of prophylactic antibiotics in cardiac surgery. Clindamycin versus cephalothin.", "content": "A randomized, prospective study of the relative effectiveness of clindamycin versus cephalothin was performed in 263 adult patients having cardiac surgery from September, 1977, to August, 1978. There were no statistically significant differences in frequency of postoperative infections in these two antibiotic groups. Wound infection developed in 6.5 percent of the cephalothin group and 3.2 percent of the clindamycin group. Urinary tract infection developed in 5.6 percent of the clindamycin group and 2.1 percent of the cephalothin group. Four bacteremic episodes occurred in the clindamycin-treated patients, and one episode of bacteremia occurred in a cephalothin-treated patient. No cases of endocarditis occurred during the study. Clindamycin deserved consideration as an alternative prophylactic agent to cephalothin for cardiac surgery.", "contents": "Comparative study of prophylactic antibiotics in cardiac surgery. Clindamycin versus cephalothin. A randomized, prospective study of the relative effectiveness of clindamycin versus cephalothin was performed in 263 adult patients having cardiac surgery from September, 1977, to August, 1978. There were no statistically significant differences in frequency of postoperative infections in these two antibiotic groups. Wound infection developed in 6.5 percent of the cephalothin group and 3.2 percent of the clindamycin group. Urinary tract infection developed in 5.6 percent of the clindamycin group and 2.1 percent of the cephalothin group. Four bacteremic episodes occurred in the clindamycin-treated patients, and one episode of bacteremia occurred in a cephalothin-treated patient. No cases of endocarditis occurred during the study. Clindamycin deserved consideration as an alternative prophylactic agent to cephalothin for cardiac surgery.", "PMID": 439926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4725", "title": "Compensatory synapse growth in aged animals after neuronal death.", "content": "The capacity of neurons to grow new synapses following partial denervation has been studied in the brain of aged rats and compared to that of younger animals. Lesion induced synapse formation is reduced in aged rats in the hippocampus and septum, two brain areas which show particularly robust growth responses in younger animals. The rate of growth as well as the final magnitude of the response is diminished in aged animals. A possible mechanism for the decreased growth response in aged animals is discussed in light of current models of reactive synaptogenesis. The loss of a compensatory growth response in the aged animal may be one of the factors which contribute to decreased brain plasticity and the slower and poorer recovery from brain damage following injury.", "contents": "Compensatory synapse growth in aged animals after neuronal death. The capacity of neurons to grow new synapses following partial denervation has been studied in the brain of aged rats and compared to that of younger animals. Lesion induced synapse formation is reduced in aged rats in the hippocampus and septum, two brain areas which show particularly robust growth responses in younger animals. The rate of growth as well as the final magnitude of the response is diminished in aged animals. A possible mechanism for the decreased growth response in aged animals is discussed in light of current models of reactive synaptogenesis. The loss of a compensatory growth response in the aged animal may be one of the factors which contribute to decreased brain plasticity and the slower and poorer recovery from brain damage following injury.", "PMID": 439948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4726", "title": "Synaptic atrophy in the senescent hippocampus.", "content": "Quantitative analyses of electron micrographs have shown a decrease in the number of synapses in the dentate gyrus of the senescent Fischer-344 rat. The loss of synapses, involving both dendritic spines and shafts and axon terminals of more than one population of presynaptic neurons, did not depend upon the antecedent loss of postsynaptic neurons or their dendrites. These findings suggest that the age-related loss of synapses in the dentate gyrus may depend upon an inability of presynaptic elements to maintain the structural integrity of synapses in senescence. It is proposed that a change in the glycoprotein component of presynaptic plasma membranes resulting from a deficiency in axonal transport mechanisms in the septo-hippocampal pathway may underly this presynaptic malfunction. The resulting partial deafferentation of neurons in the dentate gyrus in senescence appears to be associated with a secondary atrophy of dendrites, which results in a loss of postsynaptic membranes before a loss of postsynaptic neurons can be documented.", "contents": "Synaptic atrophy in the senescent hippocampus. Quantitative analyses of electron micrographs have shown a decrease in the number of synapses in the dentate gyrus of the senescent Fischer-344 rat. The loss of synapses, involving both dendritic spines and shafts and axon terminals of more than one population of presynaptic neurons, did not depend upon the antecedent loss of postsynaptic neurons or their dendrites. These findings suggest that the age-related loss of synapses in the dentate gyrus may depend upon an inability of presynaptic elements to maintain the structural integrity of synapses in senescence. It is proposed that a change in the glycoprotein component of presynaptic plasma membranes resulting from a deficiency in axonal transport mechanisms in the septo-hippocampal pathway may underly this presynaptic malfunction. The resulting partial deafferentation of neurons in the dentate gyrus in senescence appears to be associated with a secondary atrophy of dendrites, which results in a loss of postsynaptic membranes before a loss of postsynaptic neurons can be documented.", "PMID": 439949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4727", "title": "Multigene families, histocompatibility systems, transformation, meiosis, stem cells, and DNA repair.", "content": "Aging is probably not directly traceable to changes along the whole genome, but to a small portion thereof. The main histocompatibility complex appears to be one among the postulated sets of multigene families responsible. The immortality of transformed cells, the germ line, and possibly certain pluripotential stem cells may suggest common qualitative and/or quantitative differences in DNA repair mechanisms between these cell populations and committed, normal cell populations. A relationship between HLA and at least two diseases showing defective DNA-repair suggests that the same chromosome carrying the main histocompatibility complex may control some repair processes. The correspondence of variation in lifespans in different mouse strains with the DNA repair capabilities and degrees of autoimmune susceptibility of the same strains lends further support to the idea that DNA repair, immune dysfunction and aging in higher animals may be intimately related.", "contents": "Multigene families, histocompatibility systems, transformation, meiosis, stem cells, and DNA repair. Aging is probably not directly traceable to changes along the whole genome, but to a small portion thereof. The main histocompatibility complex appears to be one among the postulated sets of multigene families responsible. The immortality of transformed cells, the germ line, and possibly certain pluripotential stem cells may suggest common qualitative and/or quantitative differences in DNA repair mechanisms between these cell populations and committed, normal cell populations. A relationship between HLA and at least two diseases showing defective DNA-repair suggests that the same chromosome carrying the main histocompatibility complex may control some repair processes. The correspondence of variation in lifespans in different mouse strains with the DNA repair capabilities and degrees of autoimmune susceptibility of the same strains lends further support to the idea that DNA repair, immune dysfunction and aging in higher animals may be intimately related.", "PMID": 439951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4728", "title": "The hippocampus: organizational patterns in health and senescence.", "content": "The human hippocampal-dentate complex and the adjacent entorhinal cortex undergo a sequence of histological changes during the process of aging and senescence. Such alterations show a loose correlation with the age of the individual, and a more precise fit with the degree of clinical and psychosocial deterioration demonstrated prior to the individual's death. The structural changes are more or less idiosyncratic to the specific area involved but, in general, include loss of dendrite spines. distortion and swelling of the cell-body dendrite complex, and progressive destruction of the dendrite domain. Since one-third to two-thirds of the complement of archicortical neurons may be involved, a very significant fraction of synaptic connections are lost, and with them, much of the computational power of these areas. Psychophysiological studies strongly suggest a relationship between the human hippocampus-entorhinal complex with memory formation and/or retrieval. Animal studies indicate a possible role for the hippocampus as a cognitive mapping system which generates working models of the environment. The utility of such models might lie in part in facilitating selection of context-dependent behavior in a changing spatio-temporal setting. Progressive alteration of hippocampal function with aging and senescence could thus contribute significantly to patterns of increasing confusion and disorientation so common in the senile individual.", "contents": "The hippocampus: organizational patterns in health and senescence. The human hippocampal-dentate complex and the adjacent entorhinal cortex undergo a sequence of histological changes during the process of aging and senescence. Such alterations show a loose correlation with the age of the individual, and a more precise fit with the degree of clinical and psychosocial deterioration demonstrated prior to the individual's death. The structural changes are more or less idiosyncratic to the specific area involved but, in general, include loss of dendrite spines. distortion and swelling of the cell-body dendrite complex, and progressive destruction of the dendrite domain. Since one-third to two-thirds of the complement of archicortical neurons may be involved, a very significant fraction of synaptic connections are lost, and with them, much of the computational power of these areas. Psychophysiological studies strongly suggest a relationship between the human hippocampus-entorhinal complex with memory formation and/or retrieval. Animal studies indicate a possible role for the hippocampus as a cognitive mapping system which generates working models of the environment. The utility of such models might lie in part in facilitating selection of context-dependent behavior in a changing spatio-temporal setting. Progressive alteration of hippocampal function with aging and senescence could thus contribute significantly to patterns of increasing confusion and disorientation so common in the senile individual.", "PMID": 439952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4729", "title": "Spontaneous mutations balance reproductive selective advantage and genetically determine longevity.", "content": "The theory is presented that the genetic potential for longevity of a given species in a protected environment is determined by the rate of predation in the wild and by the frequency of spontaneous mutations. A common genetically determined lifespan representative of rare, long-lived individuals in the wild results from the slight selective advantage conferred by genotypes which do not cause early death. The selective advantage of reproductive rare survivors is limited by the rate of spontaneous mutations from a common potential longevity to those which limit lifespan to shorter times. The equilibrium frequency of life-limiting genes increases exponentially with increasing age when the rate of mutations is uniform for different degrees of life-shortening.", "contents": "Spontaneous mutations balance reproductive selective advantage and genetically determine longevity. The theory is presented that the genetic potential for longevity of a given species in a protected environment is determined by the rate of predation in the wild and by the frequency of spontaneous mutations. A common genetically determined lifespan representative of rare, long-lived individuals in the wild results from the slight selective advantage conferred by genotypes which do not cause early death. The selective advantage of reproductive rare survivors is limited by the rate of spontaneous mutations from a common potential longevity to those which limit lifespan to shorter times. The equilibrium frequency of life-limiting genes increases exponentially with increasing age when the rate of mutations is uniform for different degrees of life-shortening.", "PMID": 439953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4730", "title": "Polygamy and the evolution of human longevity.", "content": "An alternative to previous explanations of the rapid increase in man's longevity and intelligence during the several million years of his recent evolution from pre-hominid, clearly shorter-lived and less intelligent, primate ancestors is presented. The general thesis is that a very greatly accelerated rate of incorporation of favorable genes or gene combinations can be achieved in surprisingly few generations among social animals provided that dominant males become the patriarchs of many descendents by virtue of their partial or complete monopoly on available females. The conclusion is that man probably differs from his ancesters of 0.5 to 5 million years ago by many thousands of genes (both structural and regulatory) rather than the dozens or few hundreds that have been postulated on the basis of more classical treatments of selection pressures, gene frequency changes and mutation rates. The concepts developed here formally apply only to two alternative alleles, rather than to groups of genes which segregate independently, or to characters determined by multiple alleles. The appropriate mathematical treatment of the latter real situation is not readily visualized; nor is account taken of the likelihood that different tribes of pre-humans developed different specializations via the above mechanisms which were then (later) combined into an emerging human stock through matings between members of different tribes. The very great variability both in longevity and in intelligence between different races of animals such as dogs, which have been the objects of deliberate genetic selection by humans for particular heritable traits, may parallel our own recent history, even though the selection mechanism (deliberate human selection vs. polygamous dominance) is quite different in the two cases. The onset of civilizations consisting of amalgums between smaller, previously competing tribes, together with the humanitarian responsibilities to each other we share as a species, ironically has probably arrested further evolution of human longevity (and perhaps of intelligence) in the modern world. Possibly even retrogressive changes are occurring, except in those rare sub-populations in which special social and cultural practices tend to favor selective perpetuation of characteristics which are usually viewed as beneficial.", "contents": "Polygamy and the evolution of human longevity. An alternative to previous explanations of the rapid increase in man's longevity and intelligence during the several million years of his recent evolution from pre-hominid, clearly shorter-lived and less intelligent, primate ancestors is presented. The general thesis is that a very greatly accelerated rate of incorporation of favorable genes or gene combinations can be achieved in surprisingly few generations among social animals provided that dominant males become the patriarchs of many descendents by virtue of their partial or complete monopoly on available females. The conclusion is that man probably differs from his ancesters of 0.5 to 5 million years ago by many thousands of genes (both structural and regulatory) rather than the dozens or few hundreds that have been postulated on the basis of more classical treatments of selection pressures, gene frequency changes and mutation rates. The concepts developed here formally apply only to two alternative alleles, rather than to groups of genes which segregate independently, or to characters determined by multiple alleles. The appropriate mathematical treatment of the latter real situation is not readily visualized; nor is account taken of the likelihood that different tribes of pre-humans developed different specializations via the above mechanisms which were then (later) combined into an emerging human stock through matings between members of different tribes. The very great variability both in longevity and in intelligence between different races of animals such as dogs, which have been the objects of deliberate genetic selection by humans for particular heritable traits, may parallel our own recent history, even though the selection mechanism (deliberate human selection vs. polygamous dominance) is quite different in the two cases. The onset of civilizations consisting of amalgums between smaller, previously competing tribes, together with the humanitarian responsibilities to each other we share as a species, ironically has probably arrested further evolution of human longevity (and perhaps of intelligence) in the modern world. Possibly even retrogressive changes are occurring, except in those rare sub-populations in which special social and cultural practices tend to favor selective perpetuation of characteristics which are usually viewed as beneficial.", "PMID": 439954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4731", "title": "Abnormal haemoglobin in Finnsheep.", "content": "An abnormal type of haemoglobin in one ewe and one of her four lambs of Finnish breed has been reported. This type of haemoglobin in Finnsheep seems to be similar to HbC reported in some Norwegian breeds and in anaemic Merino sheep.", "contents": "Abnormal haemoglobin in Finnsheep. An abnormal type of haemoglobin in one ewe and one of her four lambs of Finnish breed has been reported. This type of haemoglobin in Finnsheep seems to be similar to HbC reported in some Norwegian breeds and in anaemic Merino sheep.", "PMID": 439955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4732", "title": "[Reactive immunologic changes during intraarterial methotrexate therapy in patients with carcinoma of the oropharynx (author's transl)].", "content": "The immunity deficiency as colateral effect of intra arterial therapy with methotrexate in oropharynx carcinoma was measured by lymphocyte stimulation tests. Ten patients taken in two groups were treated with different doses of methotrexate and citrovorum factor. In determined stages of the cellular cycle an extensive reactive trauma to the lymphocytes was detected. This is not the case in the usual measurement of the number of lymphocytes, leucocytes and thrombocytes. This method seems to be appropriate in order to establish the doses, period of time and frequency for application of the intra arterial perfusion with methotrexate.", "contents": "[Reactive immunologic changes during intraarterial methotrexate therapy in patients with carcinoma of the oropharynx (author's transl)]. The immunity deficiency as colateral effect of intra arterial therapy with methotrexate in oropharynx carcinoma was measured by lymphocyte stimulation tests. Ten patients taken in two groups were treated with different doses of methotrexate and citrovorum factor. In determined stages of the cellular cycle an extensive reactive trauma to the lymphocytes was detected. This is not the case in the usual measurement of the number of lymphocytes, leucocytes and thrombocytes. This method seems to be appropriate in order to establish the doses, period of time and frequency for application of the intra arterial perfusion with methotrexate.", "PMID": 439984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4733", "title": "[Preserved human cartilage grafts and autogenous viable transplants for nose and middle ear (author's transl)].", "content": "57% of the preserved human cartilage chips being implanted in the nose lead to a remarkable up to a complete resorption. 94% of the patients have nevertheless a sufficiently or well working function of the nose; besides that they are as well satisfied with the shape of their nose. The most important reason for the resorption are mechanical factors; this has been shown by comparing the load of implanted tissue on the columella and on the dorsum of the nose. We can't exclude the possibility of late immunologic reaction. Comparing these results with those of the middle ear by missing any mechanical load, we registered nevertheless a remarkable loss of the volume of the cartilage. This is an intense indication for an immunologic reaction, especially because there is a more intense vascularisation in the middle ear and a strong activity of fibroblasts based on the mesenchymal potency of middle ear mucosa. It's only in the middle ear that preserved cartilage can be substituted by connective tissue, viable cartilage or viable bone.", "contents": "[Preserved human cartilage grafts and autogenous viable transplants for nose and middle ear (author's transl)]. 57% of the preserved human cartilage chips being implanted in the nose lead to a remarkable up to a complete resorption. 94% of the patients have nevertheless a sufficiently or well working function of the nose; besides that they are as well satisfied with the shape of their nose. The most important reason for the resorption are mechanical factors; this has been shown by comparing the load of implanted tissue on the columella and on the dorsum of the nose. We can't exclude the possibility of late immunologic reaction. Comparing these results with those of the middle ear by missing any mechanical load, we registered nevertheless a remarkable loss of the volume of the cartilage. This is an intense indication for an immunologic reaction, especially because there is a more intense vascularisation in the middle ear and a strong activity of fibroblasts based on the mesenchymal potency of middle ear mucosa. It's only in the middle ear that preserved cartilage can be substituted by connective tissue, viable cartilage or viable bone.", "PMID": 439985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4734", "title": "[A combined allogenic implant for the dorsum of the nose (author's transl)].", "content": "Report of three patients with small bony defects on the lateral bony wall or the bridge of the nose. Reconstruction was performed with a combined cushion like implant of lyodura polsted with merthiolate preserved allongene crashed cartilage. Over a follow up time period of two years the cosmetic results are good. The histological behavior of these implants was studied in animals.", "contents": "[A combined allogenic implant for the dorsum of the nose (author's transl)]. Report of three patients with small bony defects on the lateral bony wall or the bridge of the nose. Reconstruction was performed with a combined cushion like implant of lyodura polsted with merthiolate preserved allongene crashed cartilage. Over a follow up time period of two years the cosmetic results are good. The histological behavior of these implants was studied in animals.", "PMID": 439986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4735", "title": "[Morphological changes in the hypopharynx-esophageal region following laryngectomy. II. Median-sagittal infolding above the ventral aspect of the hypopharynx-esophageal region (author's transl)].", "content": "This paper deals with the morphological findings in the hypopharynx-esophageal region of two patients following laryngectomy. In these patients we found a median-sagittal infolding, situated above the ventral aspect of the hypopharynx-esophageal region. This infolding was due to the surgical closure of the ventral wall of the esophagus, following laryngectomy. Histological examination revealed a hernia-like prolapse of the tunica m\u00fccosa, m. mucosae and tela submucosa with numerous proliferated macrophages and blood vessels, but no lymphatics. These macrophages are concerned with the removal of an edema, which, however, is only imperfectly removed and finally turns out into a fibrous tissue. The functional meaning of this infolding is not yet clear, but it seems intimately related to the altered function of the hypopharynx-esophageal region following laryngectomy.", "contents": "[Morphological changes in the hypopharynx-esophageal region following laryngectomy. II. Median-sagittal infolding above the ventral aspect of the hypopharynx-esophageal region (author's transl)]. This paper deals with the morphological findings in the hypopharynx-esophageal region of two patients following laryngectomy. In these patients we found a median-sagittal infolding, situated above the ventral aspect of the hypopharynx-esophageal region. This infolding was due to the surgical closure of the ventral wall of the esophagus, following laryngectomy. Histological examination revealed a hernia-like prolapse of the tunica m\u00fccosa, m. mucosae and tela submucosa with numerous proliferated macrophages and blood vessels, but no lymphatics. These macrophages are concerned with the removal of an edema, which, however, is only imperfectly removed and finally turns out into a fibrous tissue. The functional meaning of this infolding is not yet clear, but it seems intimately related to the altered function of the hypopharynx-esophageal region following laryngectomy.", "PMID": 439987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4736", "title": "[Tracheal transplantation in inbred strains of rats. II. Survival rates and gross findings after auto-, iso- and allogenous tracheal transplantations (author's transl)].", "content": "Report of gross findings and survival rates in 148 cases of tracheal transplants in and between isogeneic strains of rats. The results imply that the composite graft of tracheal tissue apparently possesses only minor organ specific antigenicity.", "contents": "[Tracheal transplantation in inbred strains of rats. II. Survival rates and gross findings after auto-, iso- and allogenous tracheal transplantations (author's transl)]. Report of gross findings and survival rates in 148 cases of tracheal transplants in and between isogeneic strains of rats. The results imply that the composite graft of tracheal tissue apparently possesses only minor organ specific antigenicity.", "PMID": 439988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4737", "title": "[Effects of pull upon the growth of the trachea (author's transl)].", "content": "The effect of pull following segmental resection with subsequent anastomosing was studied in animal experiments in regards to the growth of the trachea. A corresponding decrease in body-weight is demonstrated following resection of 4-7 tracheal segments. Even a small pull leads to a decrease of cartilage thickness of the entire trachea. The correlation between the number of the resected cartilage segments and the resulting stenosis in the region of the anastomosis is significant. The decreased area of the canal in the anastomosed region amounts to a maximum of 66% after resection of 7 tracheal segments without the appearance of disorders of ventilation in form of an in- and expiratory stridor. After resection of up to 3 tracheal segments telescopic cartilage overlappings are observed. The mucosa shows a metaplastic regeneration at the anastomosis.", "contents": "[Effects of pull upon the growth of the trachea (author's transl)]. The effect of pull following segmental resection with subsequent anastomosing was studied in animal experiments in regards to the growth of the trachea. A corresponding decrease in body-weight is demonstrated following resection of 4-7 tracheal segments. Even a small pull leads to a decrease of cartilage thickness of the entire trachea. The correlation between the number of the resected cartilage segments and the resulting stenosis in the region of the anastomosis is significant. The decreased area of the canal in the anastomosed region amounts to a maximum of 66% after resection of 7 tracheal segments without the appearance of disorders of ventilation in form of an in- and expiratory stridor. After resection of up to 3 tracheal segments telescopic cartilage overlappings are observed. The mucosa shows a metaplastic regeneration at the anastomosis.", "PMID": 439989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4738", "title": "[Ear pains by alterations of the mandibular joint (author's transl)].", "content": "17 patients with alterations of the mandibular joint complained of pain of the external auditory canal, the tragal region and the side of the face. In women between 25 and 35 an unphysiologic stress of the joint, in patients over 45 insufficient or missing prosthetics were identified as cause. Other symptoms such as inner ear deafness, vertigo and globus hystericus were not seen.", "contents": "[Ear pains by alterations of the mandibular joint (author's transl)]. 17 patients with alterations of the mandibular joint complained of pain of the external auditory canal, the tragal region and the side of the face. In women between 25 and 35 an unphysiologic stress of the joint, in patients over 45 insufficient or missing prosthetics were identified as cause. Other symptoms such as inner ear deafness, vertigo and globus hystericus were not seen.", "PMID": 439990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4739", "title": "[Problems in visiometry examining tracheo-bronchial-secretions (author's transl)].", "content": "For documentation of the influence of secretolytica tracheo-bronchial-secretions of 60 tracheotomied patients were examined with a modified cone and plate viscosimeter. The reliability of this method is discussed and compared wtih other technics of viscosimetry.", "contents": "[Problems in visiometry examining tracheo-bronchial-secretions (author's transl)]. For documentation of the influence of secretolytica tracheo-bronchial-secretions of 60 tracheotomied patients were examined with a modified cone and plate viscosimeter. The reliability of this method is discussed and compared wtih other technics of viscosimetry.", "PMID": 439991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4740", "title": "[A new method to get pure nasal secretions (author's transl)].", "content": "A new method to get pure nasal secretions is introduced. In comparison to the other methods, which are described in the literature, by this method it is possible to get qualitative and quantitative estimable amounts of nasal secretions. The advantage of this method is discussed. First results are reported about protein concentration and diskelectrophoretic separations of the nasal secretions.", "contents": "[A new method to get pure nasal secretions (author's transl)]. A new method to get pure nasal secretions is introduced. In comparison to the other methods, which are described in the literature, by this method it is possible to get qualitative and quantitative estimable amounts of nasal secretions. The advantage of this method is discussed. First results are reported about protein concentration and diskelectrophoretic separations of the nasal secretions.", "PMID": 439992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4741", "title": "[About progressive deafness after a detonation and explosion trauma (author's transl)].", "content": "A case is reported in which deafness was caused by an explosion trauma during wartime. In an expertise in 1954 a causal relationship between the explosion and the deafness was rejected. Advances in medical technology and research into deafness resulting from acustic trauma led to a revision of the previous decision, therefore in 1978 the deafness was acknowledged as war damage and this statement was confirmed by court judgement. The possibilities of a progressive development of ear or skull trauma due to sound is discussed. The point is stressed that there can be longtime intervals between the trauma and the onset and development of resulting deafness. This fact should induce therapeutic consequences, some of the so far tried approaches in therapy are reported.", "contents": "[About progressive deafness after a detonation and explosion trauma (author's transl)]. A case is reported in which deafness was caused by an explosion trauma during wartime. In an expertise in 1954 a causal relationship between the explosion and the deafness was rejected. Advances in medical technology and research into deafness resulting from acustic trauma led to a revision of the previous decision, therefore in 1978 the deafness was acknowledged as war damage and this statement was confirmed by court judgement. The possibilities of a progressive development of ear or skull trauma due to sound is discussed. The point is stressed that there can be longtime intervals between the trauma and the onset and development of resulting deafness. This fact should induce therapeutic consequences, some of the so far tried approaches in therapy are reported.", "PMID": 439993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4742", "title": "[Remarks on the medical opinion of noise induced hearing loss (author's transl)].", "content": "Analysis of 763 debatable examinations by experts and the study of 104 bulletins. It because clear that the results of language-audiometry can not at all be reproduced in the same way as the results of tone-audiometry. The reason for this is not only a different technique of measure, but obviewsly the patient accommodates himself to being examined. Therefore a sole deterioration of any language-audiogramme without the deterioration of the tone-audiogramme must be critically deliberated by any expert.", "contents": "[Remarks on the medical opinion of noise induced hearing loss (author's transl)]. Analysis of 763 debatable examinations by experts and the study of 104 bulletins. It because clear that the results of language-audiometry can not at all be reproduced in the same way as the results of tone-audiometry. The reason for this is not only a different technique of measure, but obviewsly the patient accommodates himself to being examined. Therefore a sole deterioration of any language-audiogramme without the deterioration of the tone-audiogramme must be critically deliberated by any expert.", "PMID": 439994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4743", "title": "[The semiautomatic speech audiometry (author's transl)].", "content": "In co-operation with the Viennatone Company we developed an apparatus to perform a \"semiautomatic speech audiometry (SAS)\". The patient is instructed to repeat the understood words into a cassette recorder when a signal lamp is on. The sequence of the test including the attenuation of intensities and a programmed change of the ear to be tested is automatically controlled. The evaluation of the patient's answers can be carried out by the assistent at any time that is suitable. The advantages of the SAS are a gain in time and the fact that during the test performance the assistent is free to pursue other activities. With the means of the SAS the possibility is now available to perform speech audiometry in very well frequented surgeries of specialists. In a surgery the apparatus was tested in 700 patients with success.", "contents": "[The semiautomatic speech audiometry (author's transl)]. In co-operation with the Viennatone Company we developed an apparatus to perform a \"semiautomatic speech audiometry (SAS)\". The patient is instructed to repeat the understood words into a cassette recorder when a signal lamp is on. The sequence of the test including the attenuation of intensities and a programmed change of the ear to be tested is automatically controlled. The evaluation of the patient's answers can be carried out by the assistent at any time that is suitable. The advantages of the SAS are a gain in time and the fact that during the test performance the assistent is free to pursue other activities. With the means of the SAS the possibility is now available to perform speech audiometry in very well frequented surgeries of specialists. In a surgery the apparatus was tested in 700 patients with success.", "PMID": 439995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4744", "title": "[Electric response audiometry (brainstem potentials, late auditory potential N1): observations at patients suffering from meni\u00e8re's disease or sudden hearing loss (author's transl)].", "content": "At some patients suffering from Meni\u00e8re's disease or sudden hearing loss the late auditory potential N1 and the brainstem potentials were registered. It could be shown, that an exact differential diagnosis between these both illnesses was not possible by means of these acoustically evoked potentials. A statistical analysis of the measured values of the brainstem potential IV ascertained this statement. Furthermore it was not possible by means of these potential to predict an improvement of hearing at patients with sudden hearing loss. Finally the potentials showed an increasing of their latencies which was greater at patients with sudden hearing loss than at patients with Meni\u00e8re's disease.", "contents": "[Electric response audiometry (brainstem potentials, late auditory potential N1): observations at patients suffering from meni\u00e8re's disease or sudden hearing loss (author's transl)]. At some patients suffering from Meni\u00e8re's disease or sudden hearing loss the late auditory potential N1 and the brainstem potentials were registered. It could be shown, that an exact differential diagnosis between these both illnesses was not possible by means of these acoustically evoked potentials. A statistical analysis of the measured values of the brainstem potential IV ascertained this statement. Furthermore it was not possible by means of these potential to predict an improvement of hearing at patients with sudden hearing loss. Finally the potentials showed an increasing of their latencies which was greater at patients with sudden hearing loss than at patients with Meni\u00e8re's disease.", "PMID": 439996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4745", "title": "[The anatomic and physiologic foundations of the measuring of time in hearing (author's transl)].", "content": "Hornbostel and Wertheimer proved in 1920, that human hearing is able to measure a time difference of 0,03 msec. This \"Hornbostel-effect\" surpasses by more than a hundredfold the average efficiency of the nervous system. It is only possible by: 1. unusually even diameter of the nervus acusticus fibres 5 micron (Lorente de No 1933), 2. the short way of the nervus acusticus (ca. 4,0 cm) and only two switch-communications (Keidel 1975) from the cochlea to the analysing nucleus accessorius (Galambos and Schwartzkopff 1959), 3. the \"miniaturisation\" of the cochlea (Keidel 1975), 4. the equal length of the nerve fibres in the cochlea through spiral of the cochlea tapering off to the top (Heermann 1958), 5. ascertainment of statistic average results of numerous simultaneous nerve actions by a neuro-physiologic computer. By altering the speed of speech records and tapes by more than 130% the time pattern, absolutely necessary for understanding language is distroyed, whereas a reproduction of music remains intelligible. By installing an adjustable loop between the high and deep pass sound heads of Matzker's binaural summations test apparatus monaural presentations showed a small deterioration at a retardation of more than 10 msec. At a 90 msec. retardation complete deterioration of speech was observed. At a retardation of 20 msec. the plosives and the short consonants disappear first; next follow the other consonants, whereas vowels remain intelligible at a 100 msec. retardation.", "contents": "[The anatomic and physiologic foundations of the measuring of time in hearing (author's transl)]. Hornbostel and Wertheimer proved in 1920, that human hearing is able to measure a time difference of 0,03 msec. This \"Hornbostel-effect\" surpasses by more than a hundredfold the average efficiency of the nervous system. It is only possible by: 1. unusually even diameter of the nervus acusticus fibres 5 micron (Lorente de No 1933), 2. the short way of the nervus acusticus (ca. 4,0 cm) and only two switch-communications (Keidel 1975) from the cochlea to the analysing nucleus accessorius (Galambos and Schwartzkopff 1959), 3. the \"miniaturisation\" of the cochlea (Keidel 1975), 4. the equal length of the nerve fibres in the cochlea through spiral of the cochlea tapering off to the top (Heermann 1958), 5. ascertainment of statistic average results of numerous simultaneous nerve actions by a neuro-physiologic computer. By altering the speed of speech records and tapes by more than 130% the time pattern, absolutely necessary for understanding language is distroyed, whereas a reproduction of music remains intelligible. By installing an adjustable loop between the high and deep pass sound heads of Matzker's binaural summations test apparatus monaural presentations showed a small deterioration at a retardation of more than 10 msec. At a 90 msec. retardation complete deterioration of speech was observed. At a retardation of 20 msec. the plosives and the short consonants disappear first; next follow the other consonants, whereas vowels remain intelligible at a 100 msec. retardation.", "PMID": 439997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4746", "title": "[Air caloric test: as useful as the water caloric test (author's transl)].", "content": "Twenty normal probands were examined by us with air (60 sec, 121/min, 45 degrees/29 degrees C) and 25 with water (30 sec, 30 cm3, 44 degrees/30 degrees C) caloric test. Additionally we evaluated the influence of flow rate and tip position on the temperature near the tympanic membrane during the irrigation, using a polyacryl copy of the external auditory canal. A high flow rate and a reproducible tip position very near to the tympanic membrane during the irrigation appeared to be essential to achieve reliable results in air caloric test. Measurements of the actual temperatur should be done therefore at the irrigation tip delivery in every caloric test with air. Lower heat capacity of air, air jamming near the tympanic membrane and heat losses through the meatus wall are the main reasons of more distinct temperature drops and a higher variability in air caloric test, than in the common caloric test with water. Therefore, the air caloric test as a reliable instrument should be reserved for those cases, were water is contradicted.", "contents": "[Air caloric test: as useful as the water caloric test (author's transl)]. Twenty normal probands were examined by us with air (60 sec, 121/min, 45 degrees/29 degrees C) and 25 with water (30 sec, 30 cm3, 44 degrees/30 degrees C) caloric test. Additionally we evaluated the influence of flow rate and tip position on the temperature near the tympanic membrane during the irrigation, using a polyacryl copy of the external auditory canal. A high flow rate and a reproducible tip position very near to the tympanic membrane during the irrigation appeared to be essential to achieve reliable results in air caloric test. Measurements of the actual temperatur should be done therefore at the irrigation tip delivery in every caloric test with air. Lower heat capacity of air, air jamming near the tympanic membrane and heat losses through the meatus wall are the main reasons of more distinct temperature drops and a higher variability in air caloric test, than in the common caloric test with water. Therefore, the air caloric test as a reliable instrument should be reserved for those cases, were water is contradicted.", "PMID": 439998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4747", "title": "[Resistometry-improvement of the hydrodynamic function test of sinus frontalis duct system (author's transl)].", "content": "The biophysical and technical base as well as clinical applications of a new functional diagnostic system of sinus frontalis disorders are described. The system consists of a ventilation test and the so called \"resistometry\". The principle of the resistometry is the generation of a fluid flow in the frontal sinus duct system by a pressure regulated injector, the measurement and registration of flow and pressure and the calculation of the hydrodynamic resistance of the duct system. The resistance is determined in \"Resistance Units\" (RU). The possibilities of the proposed diagnostic system in differential diagnosis are shown in 156 cases. Apart from the quantitative assessment of the classical inflammations of the frontal sinus the functional diseases of the duct system may be discriminated with certainity.", "contents": "[Resistometry-improvement of the hydrodynamic function test of sinus frontalis duct system (author's transl)]. The biophysical and technical base as well as clinical applications of a new functional diagnostic system of sinus frontalis disorders are described. The system consists of a ventilation test and the so called \"resistometry\". The principle of the resistometry is the generation of a fluid flow in the frontal sinus duct system by a pressure regulated injector, the measurement and registration of flow and pressure and the calculation of the hydrodynamic resistance of the duct system. The resistance is determined in \"Resistance Units\" (RU). The possibilities of the proposed diagnostic system in differential diagnosis are shown in 156 cases. Apart from the quantitative assessment of the classical inflammations of the frontal sinus the functional diseases of the duct system may be discriminated with certainity.", "PMID": 439999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4748", "title": "[Concentrations of antibiotics (ampicilline, doxycycline) in the chronic-hyperplastic alterated mucosa of the maxillary sinuses (author's transl)].", "content": "Surgical treatment of chronic sinusitis is usually preceeded by the attempt of curing the disease by antibiotic and antiphlogistic therapy. Since no studies on the concentration of antibiotics in chronic-hyperplastic mucosa of the maxillary sinuses could be found in the literature, two groups of each 20 patients were subjected to treatment with ampicilline (Binotal) and doxycycline (Vibramycin) respectively and the concentrations of the antibiotics in the maxillary sinus tissue gained during operation were measured. It was shown that therapy with doxycycline produces higher tissue levels than with ampicilline. So it can be assumed that with doxycycline the treatment of chronic-hyperplastic sinusitis will be more frequently successful than with ampicilline. But, with regard to the tissue concentrations found in the study, also with doxycycline only part of infections (e. g. due to certain grampositive cocci, hemophilic bacteria, Pasteurellae) seems to be controllable. Since bacteria of different species could be isolated from the excided mucosa of about 50% of the patients and, on the other hand, the serum levels especially in case of doxycycline were constantly high, the prophylactic use of this drug before operation is recommended in order to avoid inflammatory complications.", "contents": "[Concentrations of antibiotics (ampicilline, doxycycline) in the chronic-hyperplastic alterated mucosa of the maxillary sinuses (author's transl)]. Surgical treatment of chronic sinusitis is usually preceeded by the attempt of curing the disease by antibiotic and antiphlogistic therapy. Since no studies on the concentration of antibiotics in chronic-hyperplastic mucosa of the maxillary sinuses could be found in the literature, two groups of each 20 patients were subjected to treatment with ampicilline (Binotal) and doxycycline (Vibramycin) respectively and the concentrations of the antibiotics in the maxillary sinus tissue gained during operation were measured. It was shown that therapy with doxycycline produces higher tissue levels than with ampicilline. So it can be assumed that with doxycycline the treatment of chronic-hyperplastic sinusitis will be more frequently successful than with ampicilline. But, with regard to the tissue concentrations found in the study, also with doxycycline only part of infections (e. g. due to certain grampositive cocci, hemophilic bacteria, Pasteurellae) seems to be controllable. Since bacteria of different species could be isolated from the excided mucosa of about 50% of the patients and, on the other hand, the serum levels especially in case of doxycycline were constantly high, the prophylactic use of this drug before operation is recommended in order to avoid inflammatory complications.", "PMID": 440000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4749", "title": "[The electromyography as an aid the for differential diagnosis of laryngeal movement disturbances (author's transl)].", "content": "Laryngeal movement disturbances especially require a differential diagnosis between innervation disturbances and other organic causes. Although this is to be achieved by means of electromyographic examination of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx only, this relatively easy and almost riskless method has been applied for clinical-diagnostic purposes only rarely until now. After a brief description of the technical procedure a few cases (secundary fixation of the cricoarytaenoid joint after an old paralysis of the recurrent nerve; lesion of the recurrent nerve by compression after endotracheal intubation; late lesion of the vagal nerve after operation; paralyses of N. laryngicus cranialis after thyroidectomy; congenital bilateral anchylosis of the cricoarytaenoid joints; prove of re-innervation after surgical repair of the recurrent nerve) are reported to demonstrate that this diagnostic aid is necessary as therapy often depends on the electromyographic findings. Electromyography may give valuable informations about the prognosis of vocal cord paralysis and may become quite important for forensic questions.", "contents": "[The electromyography as an aid the for differential diagnosis of laryngeal movement disturbances (author's transl)]. Laryngeal movement disturbances especially require a differential diagnosis between innervation disturbances and other organic causes. Although this is to be achieved by means of electromyographic examination of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx only, this relatively easy and almost riskless method has been applied for clinical-diagnostic purposes only rarely until now. After a brief description of the technical procedure a few cases (secundary fixation of the cricoarytaenoid joint after an old paralysis of the recurrent nerve; lesion of the recurrent nerve by compression after endotracheal intubation; late lesion of the vagal nerve after operation; paralyses of N. laryngicus cranialis after thyroidectomy; congenital bilateral anchylosis of the cricoarytaenoid joints; prove of re-innervation after surgical repair of the recurrent nerve) are reported to demonstrate that this diagnostic aid is necessary as therapy often depends on the electromyographic findings. Electromyography may give valuable informations about the prognosis of vocal cord paralysis and may become quite important for forensic questions.", "PMID": 440001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4750", "title": "[X-ray-Kinematographic examinations of the movement of the velum during the process of sneezing in comparison with cough (author's transl)].", "content": "Because of X-ray examinations during the process of sneezing the report of Weber is confirmed, that the cavity of the mouth is sealed against the nose in the moment of sneezing. So sneezing can only be done through the mouth. At the same time a spcial middle phase of the velum is described, i.e. its lifting by an active contraction before the actuel exspirational thrust as an essential difference to the coughing reflex. While coughing the movement of the velum is purely passive because of the exspirational thrust. The seal between the nose and cavity of the mouth is often not complete.", "contents": "[X-ray-Kinematographic examinations of the movement of the velum during the process of sneezing in comparison with cough (author's transl)]. Because of X-ray examinations during the process of sneezing the report of Weber is confirmed, that the cavity of the mouth is sealed against the nose in the moment of sneezing. So sneezing can only be done through the mouth. At the same time a spcial middle phase of the velum is described, i.e. its lifting by an active contraction before the actuel exspirational thrust as an essential difference to the coughing reflex. While coughing the movement of the velum is purely passive because of the exspirational thrust. The seal between the nose and cavity of the mouth is often not complete.", "PMID": 440002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4751", "title": "[Analysis of motility disturbances due to a combination of different orbital lesions by means of the synoptometer (author's transl)].", "content": "There is no clear cut symptomatology of the ocular motility in blow-out fractures. It is essentially dependant on the number of muscles involved, what muscle in particular and where the muscle in incarcerated. Besides the blow-out fracture an additional impairment of motility can occur, for example central nerve palsy or Brown's syndrome of traumatic origin. For the exact analysis of the deviation measurement from 10 to 10 degrees is essential which can best be achieved with the synoptometer of C\u00fcppers.", "contents": "[Analysis of motility disturbances due to a combination of different orbital lesions by means of the synoptometer (author's transl)]. There is no clear cut symptomatology of the ocular motility in blow-out fractures. It is essentially dependant on the number of muscles involved, what muscle in particular and where the muscle in incarcerated. Besides the blow-out fracture an additional impairment of motility can occur, for example central nerve palsy or Brown's syndrome of traumatic origin. For the exact analysis of the deviation measurement from 10 to 10 degrees is essential which can best be achieved with the synoptometer of C\u00fcppers.", "PMID": 440003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4752", "title": "[Toxoplasmosis and otolaryngology (author's transl)].", "content": "A 5-year-Toxoplasmosis material of the Otorhino-laryngological Department of University School, Szeged has been analyzed on the basis of age, sex, laboratory data and literature. The occurance of the disease was most frequent in the 20--35-year-old population in both sexes. The diagnosis was proved by serological and histological investigations. A one month administration of Tindurin (25 mg Pyrimethamin) combined with Sulphonamid has been used in the therapy with satisfactory effect. The etiological role of toxoplasmosis is emphasised in the differential diagnosis of the cervical lympadenopathy.", "contents": "[Toxoplasmosis and otolaryngology (author's transl)]. A 5-year-Toxoplasmosis material of the Otorhino-laryngological Department of University School, Szeged has been analyzed on the basis of age, sex, laboratory data and literature. The occurance of the disease was most frequent in the 20--35-year-old population in both sexes. The diagnosis was proved by serological and histological investigations. A one month administration of Tindurin (25 mg Pyrimethamin) combined with Sulphonamid has been used in the therapy with satisfactory effect. The etiological role of toxoplasmosis is emphasised in the differential diagnosis of the cervical lympadenopathy.", "PMID": 440004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4753", "title": "[Measurements of temperatures in gold-light endoscopical optics (author's transl)].", "content": "Measurements in 5 several Hopkins-Optics demonstrated temperatures up to 121,9 degrees Celsius. The electric light was produced by a normal 150 Watt light source and a special Xenon light source.", "contents": "[Measurements of temperatures in gold-light endoscopical optics (author's transl)]. Measurements in 5 several Hopkins-Optics demonstrated temperatures up to 121,9 degrees Celsius. The electric light was produced by a normal 150 Watt light source and a special Xenon light source.", "PMID": 440005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4754", "title": "Fatty acid metabolism in the calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus: 1. Polyunsaturated fatty acids.", "content": "The metabolic fate of radioactive linoleate and alpha-linolenate administered to the South Atlantic copepod Paracalanus parvus was studied. The wild copepod was able to incorporate the labeled acids dissolved in seawater. The radioactive linoleate was elongated to 20:2omega6 and 22:2omega6 and desaturated by a delta6 desaturase to 18:3omega6. alpha-Linolenate was also desaturated by a delta6 desaturase to 18:4omega3 and elongated to 20:3omega3. The copepod was able to convert alpha-18:3 to 20:5omega3 and 22:6omega3.", "contents": "Fatty acid metabolism in the calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus: 1. Polyunsaturated fatty acids. The metabolic fate of radioactive linoleate and alpha-linolenate administered to the South Atlantic copepod Paracalanus parvus was studied. The wild copepod was able to incorporate the labeled acids dissolved in seawater. The radioactive linoleate was elongated to 20:2omega6 and 22:2omega6 and desaturated by a delta6 desaturase to 18:3omega6. alpha-Linolenate was also desaturated by a delta6 desaturase to 18:4omega3 and elongated to 20:3omega3. The copepod was able to convert alpha-18:3 to 20:5omega3 and 22:6omega3.", "PMID": 440021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4755", "title": "Fatty acid metabolism of the calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus: 2. Palmitate, stearate, oleate and acetate.", "content": "The de novo biosynthesis of fatty acids in the wild, calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus was studied. The incubation of labeled acetate proved the de novo biosynthesis of saturated and monounsaturated even fatty acids from 14 to 20 carbons and the 22:1 acid. Saturated and monounsaturated uneven fatty acids from 15 to 21 carbons were also synthesized. The copepod could not synthesize linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids. By administration of [1-14C]palmitate, [1-14C]stearate and [1-14C]oleate, it was possible to elucidate the general pattern of the de novo biosynthesis of fatty acids in the wild P. parvus.", "contents": "Fatty acid metabolism of the calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus: 2. Palmitate, stearate, oleate and acetate. The de novo biosynthesis of fatty acids in the wild, calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus was studied. The incubation of labeled acetate proved the de novo biosynthesis of saturated and monounsaturated even fatty acids from 14 to 20 carbons and the 22:1 acid. Saturated and monounsaturated uneven fatty acids from 15 to 21 carbons were also synthesized. The copepod could not synthesize linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids. By administration of [1-14C]palmitate, [1-14C]stearate and [1-14C]oleate, it was possible to elucidate the general pattern of the de novo biosynthesis of fatty acids in the wild P. parvus.", "PMID": 440022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4756", "title": "Lipid composition of Yoshida ascites hepatoma and of livers and blood plasma from host and normal rats.", "content": "The lipid composition of Yoshida ascites hepatoma cells was analyzed together with that of ascitic plasma and of livers and blood plasma from host and normal rats. In comparison to normal livers, host livers showed no significant differences in the content of the various lipid classes, but contained a higher percentage of palmitic acid and a lower proportion of arachidonic acid in the major phospholipid classes. In addition, tumor growth induced a marked hypertriglyceridemia in host animals; changes in the concentration of other plasma lipid classes were not statistically significant. The ascitic plasma contained small amounts of lipids mainly constituted by cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. Yoshida hepatoma cells contained less phospholipids in comparison to both host and normal liver, while the increased level of triglycerides and the decrease of free fatty acids were not statistically significant. Hepatoma cells showed appreciable amounts of ether-linked lipids associated in part to neutral lipids (as glyceryl ether diesters) and, in part, to ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides. The alkyl groups in GEDE as well as in ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides were mainly constituted by C16:0 and C18:0 followed by C18:1. The alk-1-enyl groups in ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides were C16:0 and C18:0 with only a minor proportion of C18:1. In comparison to both host and normal liver, Yoshida hepatoma cells showed significant changes in the fatty acid composition of neutral lipids and phospholipids. Some of the major changes consisted of an increase of monoenoic acids associated with a decrease of arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids in phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylinositol.", "contents": "Lipid composition of Yoshida ascites hepatoma and of livers and blood plasma from host and normal rats. The lipid composition of Yoshida ascites hepatoma cells was analyzed together with that of ascitic plasma and of livers and blood plasma from host and normal rats. In comparison to normal livers, host livers showed no significant differences in the content of the various lipid classes, but contained a higher percentage of palmitic acid and a lower proportion of arachidonic acid in the major phospholipid classes. In addition, tumor growth induced a marked hypertriglyceridemia in host animals; changes in the concentration of other plasma lipid classes were not statistically significant. The ascitic plasma contained small amounts of lipids mainly constituted by cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. Yoshida hepatoma cells contained less phospholipids in comparison to both host and normal liver, while the increased level of triglycerides and the decrease of free fatty acids were not statistically significant. Hepatoma cells showed appreciable amounts of ether-linked lipids associated in part to neutral lipids (as glyceryl ether diesters) and, in part, to ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides. The alkyl groups in GEDE as well as in ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides were mainly constituted by C16:0 and C18:0 followed by C18:1. The alk-1-enyl groups in ethanolamine and choline phosphoglycerides were C16:0 and C18:0 with only a minor proportion of C18:1. In comparison to both host and normal liver, Yoshida hepatoma cells showed significant changes in the fatty acid composition of neutral lipids and phospholipids. Some of the major changes consisted of an increase of monoenoic acids associated with a decrease of arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids in phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylinositol.", "PMID": 440023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4757", "title": "Apoproteins in association with Intralipid incubations in rat and human plasma.", "content": "Intralipid was incubated with rat and human plasma and examined for changes in lipid and aproprotein composition. Upon incubation in rat plasma, Intralipid acquired an apoprotein complement similar to that found in chylomicrons following plasma incubation or in chylomicrons after alimentary lipemia. Since the apoproteins of lipoproteins probably govern their metabolism, these results suggest that Intralipid and chylomicrons undergo similar metabolic fates. This pattern is characterized by a predominance of Apo E (the arginine-rich apoprotein) and Apo C. Incubation of Intralipid with human plasma showed the uptake of Apo A-I and Apo A-IV as well. Density fractionation of the plasma into separate lipoprotein classes identification of high density lipoprotein as the major apoprotein donor to the Intralipid. When rat lipoprotein-free plasma (delta greater than 1.21) was incubated with Intralipid, a different apoprotein pattern appeared in the particles of Sf greater than 400 depending on whether the entire Intralipid preparation or only the Sf greater than 400 fraction alone was incubated. The difference consisted of a virtual total absence of the arginine-rich protein on the Sf greater than 400 particles in whole Intralipid incubation. Density fractionation of the Sf less than 400 particles of Intralipid and recombination of these fractions with the Sf greater than 400 fraction before incubation revealed the major inhibitory fraction to be delta less than 1.006 (Sf 20-400).", "contents": "Apoproteins in association with Intralipid incubations in rat and human plasma. Intralipid was incubated with rat and human plasma and examined for changes in lipid and aproprotein composition. Upon incubation in rat plasma, Intralipid acquired an apoprotein complement similar to that found in chylomicrons following plasma incubation or in chylomicrons after alimentary lipemia. Since the apoproteins of lipoproteins probably govern their metabolism, these results suggest that Intralipid and chylomicrons undergo similar metabolic fates. This pattern is characterized by a predominance of Apo E (the arginine-rich apoprotein) and Apo C. Incubation of Intralipid with human plasma showed the uptake of Apo A-I and Apo A-IV as well. Density fractionation of the plasma into separate lipoprotein classes identification of high density lipoprotein as the major apoprotein donor to the Intralipid. When rat lipoprotein-free plasma (delta greater than 1.21) was incubated with Intralipid, a different apoprotein pattern appeared in the particles of Sf greater than 400 depending on whether the entire Intralipid preparation or only the Sf greater than 400 fraction alone was incubated. The difference consisted of a virtual total absence of the arginine-rich protein on the Sf greater than 400 particles in whole Intralipid incubation. Density fractionation of the Sf less than 400 particles of Intralipid and recombination of these fractions with the Sf greater than 400 fraction before incubation revealed the major inhibitory fraction to be delta less than 1.006 (Sf 20-400).", "PMID": 440024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4758", "title": "Characterization of branched-chain fatty acids from fallow deer perinephric triacylglycerols by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.", "content": "Branched-chain fatty acids of perinephric triacylglycerols of semi-feral fallow deer (Dama dama dama) were analyzed by high resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Of the total fatty acids, 15.50% were Branched-chain components including 8.96% iso acids, mostly 14-methylpentacanoic acid, 2.85% anteiso acids and 1.73% of other monomethyl-substituted acids; dimethyl-branched acids with an iso structure (1.05%) and with an anteiso structure (0.18%) were also present. Whereas the predominant iso acids and methyl-substituted iso acids had chain lengths of 13 and 15 carbon atoms, the anteiso acids and methyl-substituted anteiso acids had chain lengths of 14 and 16 carbon atoms. Methyl substitution occurred on the even numbered carbon atoms relative to the carboxyl group. The general composition is also given of the fatty acids comprising the triacylglycerols of subcutaneous (rump area) and perinephric adipose tissue.", "contents": "Characterization of branched-chain fatty acids from fallow deer perinephric triacylglycerols by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Branched-chain fatty acids of perinephric triacylglycerols of semi-feral fallow deer (Dama dama dama) were analyzed by high resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Of the total fatty acids, 15.50% were Branched-chain components including 8.96% iso acids, mostly 14-methylpentacanoic acid, 2.85% anteiso acids and 1.73% of other monomethyl-substituted acids; dimethyl-branched acids with an iso structure (1.05%) and with an anteiso structure (0.18%) were also present. Whereas the predominant iso acids and methyl-substituted iso acids had chain lengths of 13 and 15 carbon atoms, the anteiso acids and methyl-substituted anteiso acids had chain lengths of 14 and 16 carbon atoms. Methyl substitution occurred on the even numbered carbon atoms relative to the carboxyl group. The general composition is also given of the fatty acids comprising the triacylglycerols of subcutaneous (rump area) and perinephric adipose tissue.", "PMID": 440025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4759", "title": "Comparison of lipid status in the hearts of piglets and rats on short term feeding of marine oils and rapeseed oils.", "content": "A series of 4 experiments with piglets and one experiment with rats has been conducted to establish the cardiac lipid status of weanling (3 weeks old) male animals fed fats with different contents of docosenoic fatty acids. Experimental fats were rapeseed oil (RSO) (48.0% 22:1), refined fish oil (RFO) (14.6% 22:1), partially hydrogenated fish oil (PHFO) (14.3% 22:1) and lard (0% 22:1) combined with sunflower seed oil (SFO) in different proportions in diets with 21% total fat. Lipidosis could not be detected in piglets as increased heart weights, by chemical assay for myocardial contents of triglycerides, or by accumulation of docosenoic fatty acids or nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA). In rats, diets with RSO at a level of 16% increased myocardial triglyceride and docosenoic fatty acid contents about 7 times while the effect on cardiac NEFA was inconsistent. Histological examinations of the hearts revealed stainable intracellular fat droplets in some piglets fed 16% RSO for 8 to 13 days, but not after 2, 4 and 6 and 16, 19 and 22 days of feeding. After 10 days of feeding, mild to moderate histological lipidosis was found in piglets fed diets containing 2% or more of 22:1 fatty acids, with no significant difference between RSO, RFO and PHFO in this respect. The same diets in rats gave about 5 times more histological lipidosis than in piglets. This is attributed to a difference in species response, the rat reacting in a more pronounced manner than the piglet. The cardiac lipidosis no-effect level in piglets corresponded to a daily intake of docosenoic fatty acids of 0.4 g per kg body weight. Mild lipidosis was also found in a few animals on docosenoic acid-free diets.", "contents": "Comparison of lipid status in the hearts of piglets and rats on short term feeding of marine oils and rapeseed oils. A series of 4 experiments with piglets and one experiment with rats has been conducted to establish the cardiac lipid status of weanling (3 weeks old) male animals fed fats with different contents of docosenoic fatty acids. Experimental fats were rapeseed oil (RSO) (48.0% 22:1), refined fish oil (RFO) (14.6% 22:1), partially hydrogenated fish oil (PHFO) (14.3% 22:1) and lard (0% 22:1) combined with sunflower seed oil (SFO) in different proportions in diets with 21% total fat. Lipidosis could not be detected in piglets as increased heart weights, by chemical assay for myocardial contents of triglycerides, or by accumulation of docosenoic fatty acids or nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA). In rats, diets with RSO at a level of 16% increased myocardial triglyceride and docosenoic fatty acid contents about 7 times while the effect on cardiac NEFA was inconsistent. Histological examinations of the hearts revealed stainable intracellular fat droplets in some piglets fed 16% RSO for 8 to 13 days, but not after 2, 4 and 6 and 16, 19 and 22 days of feeding. After 10 days of feeding, mild to moderate histological lipidosis was found in piglets fed diets containing 2% or more of 22:1 fatty acids, with no significant difference between RSO, RFO and PHFO in this respect. The same diets in rats gave about 5 times more histological lipidosis than in piglets. This is attributed to a difference in species response, the rat reacting in a more pronounced manner than the piglet. The cardiac lipidosis no-effect level in piglets corresponded to a daily intake of docosenoic fatty acids of 0.4 g per kg body weight. Mild lipidosis was also found in a few animals on docosenoic acid-free diets.", "PMID": 440026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4760", "title": "Cholesterol metabolism in the liver and intestine of the chick: effect of dietary cholesterol, taurocholic acid and cholestyramine.", "content": "The effect of feeding cholesterol, taurocholic acid, or cholestyramine to chicks on cholesterogenesis from [1-14C] acetate in liver and intestine was determined in vitro using tissue slices, and in vivo by i.v. injection of [14C] acetate. The conversion of cholesterol to bile acids in liver in vivo was measured in the same treatments after i.v. injection of [3H] cholesterol. Hepatic cholesterogenesis in vitro and in vivo was depressed by dietary cholesterol and taurocholate and enhanced by cholestyramine. Intestinal cholesterogenesis in vivo was depressed only by taurocholate whereas ileal cholesterogenesis in vitro was reduced by dietary cholesterol. Conversion of cholesterol to bile acids was enhanced by dietary cholesterol and cholestyramine and depressed by taurocholate. Hepatic cholesterol metabolism in the chick appears to be regulated by mechanisms similar to those reported for other species.", "contents": "Cholesterol metabolism in the liver and intestine of the chick: effect of dietary cholesterol, taurocholic acid and cholestyramine. The effect of feeding cholesterol, taurocholic acid, or cholestyramine to chicks on cholesterogenesis from [1-14C] acetate in liver and intestine was determined in vitro using tissue slices, and in vivo by i.v. injection of [14C] acetate. The conversion of cholesterol to bile acids in liver in vivo was measured in the same treatments after i.v. injection of [3H] cholesterol. Hepatic cholesterogenesis in vitro and in vivo was depressed by dietary cholesterol and taurocholate and enhanced by cholestyramine. Intestinal cholesterogenesis in vivo was depressed only by taurocholate whereas ileal cholesterogenesis in vitro was reduced by dietary cholesterol. Conversion of cholesterol to bile acids was enhanced by dietary cholesterol and cholestyramine and depressed by taurocholate. Hepatic cholesterol metabolism in the chick appears to be regulated by mechanisms similar to those reported for other species.", "PMID": 440028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4761", "title": "Influence of elevated levels of linoleic acid on the thermal properties of bovine milk fat.", "content": "The thermal properties of bovine milk fat containing 15.5% linoleic acid have been compared with those of milk fat containing a normal level (1.8%) of linoleic acid in order to examine the influence of altered triglyceride (TG) composition on their physical characteristics. The total TGs of 18:2-rich milk fat melted over the range -38 to 30 C compared with the range -33 to 34 C for control milk fat. Polymorphism exhibited by the high mol wt TGs of control milk fat was absent in the same fraction of 18:2-rich milk fat. Similarly, the complex melting thermogram of the low mol wt TGs of control milk fat and its obvious polymorphic behavior contrasted with the single broad melting peak of the low mol wt TGs of 18:2-rich milk fat. This solid miscibility in the 18:2-rich milk fat could be a consequence of the lower proportion of saturated TGs or the presence of high proportions of diene and triene TGs containing 18:2 instead of monoene and diene TGs containing 18:1.", "contents": "Influence of elevated levels of linoleic acid on the thermal properties of bovine milk fat. The thermal properties of bovine milk fat containing 15.5% linoleic acid have been compared with those of milk fat containing a normal level (1.8%) of linoleic acid in order to examine the influence of altered triglyceride (TG) composition on their physical characteristics. The total TGs of 18:2-rich milk fat melted over the range -38 to 30 C compared with the range -33 to 34 C for control milk fat. Polymorphism exhibited by the high mol wt TGs of control milk fat was absent in the same fraction of 18:2-rich milk fat. Similarly, the complex melting thermogram of the low mol wt TGs of control milk fat and its obvious polymorphic behavior contrasted with the single broad melting peak of the low mol wt TGs of 18:2-rich milk fat. This solid miscibility in the 18:2-rich milk fat could be a consequence of the lower proportion of saturated TGs or the presence of high proportions of diene and triene TGs containing 18:2 instead of monoene and diene TGs containing 18:1.", "PMID": 440029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4762", "title": "Effect of lecithin on jejunal absorption of micellar lipids in man and on their monomer activity in vitro.", "content": "The effect of lecithin on jejunal absorption of fatty acids and octadecenoylglycerol was studied in healthy volunteers with a jejunal perfusion system which excluded pancreatic and biliary secretions from the test segment. Lecithin significantly reduced the absorption of oleic acid (P less than 0.05) and octadecenoylglycerol (P less than 0.01), while it had no effect on the absorption of ricinoleic acid. In vitro, lecithin reduced monomer activities of all three lipids; the changes were greater for oleic acid and octadecenoylglycerol than for ricinoleic acid (P less than 0.02). From these data it is concluded that lecithin reduces monomer activity of fatty acids in mixed micellar solutions and that it can thereby reduce the absorption rates of micellar lipids. Intact lecithin is not absorbed under these conditions. Maldigestion of lecithin in pancreatic insufficiency may, therefore, aggravate the steatorrhea observed in this condition.", "contents": "Effect of lecithin on jejunal absorption of micellar lipids in man and on their monomer activity in vitro. The effect of lecithin on jejunal absorption of fatty acids and octadecenoylglycerol was studied in healthy volunteers with a jejunal perfusion system which excluded pancreatic and biliary secretions from the test segment. Lecithin significantly reduced the absorption of oleic acid (P less than 0.05) and octadecenoylglycerol (P less than 0.01), while it had no effect on the absorption of ricinoleic acid. In vitro, lecithin reduced monomer activities of all three lipids; the changes were greater for oleic acid and octadecenoylglycerol than for ricinoleic acid (P less than 0.02). From these data it is concluded that lecithin reduces monomer activity of fatty acids in mixed micellar solutions and that it can thereby reduce the absorption rates of micellar lipids. Intact lecithin is not absorbed under these conditions. Maldigestion of lecithin in pancreatic insufficiency may, therefore, aggravate the steatorrhea observed in this condition.", "PMID": 440030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4763", "title": "The use of essential fatty acid deficient rats to study pathophysiological roles of prostaglandins. Comparison of prostaglandin production with some parameters of deficiency.", "content": "In a retrospective study on essential fatty acid deficient (EFAD) rats used to study pathophysiological roles of prostaglandins (PGs), slight increases in the linoleic acid content of the diet were found to gradually restore the depressed growth rate and to increase the reduced endogenous PG production. These apparently poorly deficient animals had a serum triene tetraene (omega9:omega6) ratio much higher than the value of 0.4 used as a criterion for EFA deficiency by nutritionists. Changes in body weight, serum omega9:omega6 and platelet PG production were not correlated with each other. Feeding rats on a diet containing less than 0.1 mg/g/linoleic acid led to decreasing platelet PG production as the degree of EFA deficiency increased. At this high level of deficiency, a serum omega9:omega6 ratio of 6 or over was achieved. This high ratio may be taken as an indicator of the degree of EFA deficiency required for studies on PG deprivation, but PG production by the tissue investigated or by platelets should preferentially be measured.", "contents": "The use of essential fatty acid deficient rats to study pathophysiological roles of prostaglandins. Comparison of prostaglandin production with some parameters of deficiency. In a retrospective study on essential fatty acid deficient (EFAD) rats used to study pathophysiological roles of prostaglandins (PGs), slight increases in the linoleic acid content of the diet were found to gradually restore the depressed growth rate and to increase the reduced endogenous PG production. These apparently poorly deficient animals had a serum triene tetraene (omega9:omega6) ratio much higher than the value of 0.4 used as a criterion for EFA deficiency by nutritionists. Changes in body weight, serum omega9:omega6 and platelet PG production were not correlated with each other. Feeding rats on a diet containing less than 0.1 mg/g/linoleic acid led to decreasing platelet PG production as the degree of EFA deficiency increased. At this high level of deficiency, a serum omega9:omega6 ratio of 6 or over was achieved. This high ratio may be taken as an indicator of the degree of EFA deficiency required for studies on PG deprivation, but PG production by the tissue investigated or by platelets should preferentially be measured.", "PMID": 440031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4764", "title": "[The evaluation of vaginal smears in cytological hormone diagnosis: a pilot study (author's transl)].", "content": "The estimation of the composition of the vaginal smear of the cytological hormone diagnosis is given by a sampling method. The results show that the cells should be distributed in a more uniform way on the slide than it is the case within conventional smears.", "contents": "[The evaluation of vaginal smears in cytological hormone diagnosis: a pilot study (author's transl)]. The estimation of the composition of the vaginal smear of the cytological hormone diagnosis is given by a sampling method. The results show that the cells should be distributed in a more uniform way on the slide than it is the case within conventional smears.", "PMID": 440140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4765", "title": "[Sexual differentiation of newborn rabbits with karyotype analysis for experimental use (author's transl)].", "content": "The sex of newborn rabbits is differentiated. A three-day blood culture of the blood of the retrobulbar venous plexus and a short term culture within one hour was followed by the preparation of the chromosome metaphases. The mitoses have a good spreading, and they are numerous for the sex differentiation. The sex determination is carried out with the Focomat microscope (E. Leitz, Wetzlar) after having photographed the metaphases.", "contents": "[Sexual differentiation of newborn rabbits with karyotype analysis for experimental use (author's transl)]. The sex of newborn rabbits is differentiated. A three-day blood culture of the blood of the retrobulbar venous plexus and a short term culture within one hour was followed by the preparation of the chromosome metaphases. The mitoses have a good spreading, and they are numerous for the sex differentiation. The sex determination is carried out with the Focomat microscope (E. Leitz, Wetzlar) after having photographed the metaphases.", "PMID": 440141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4766", "title": "Optical detection of cell-surface changes associated with malignant transformations in vitro.", "content": "A need exists for new experimental approaches for the direct detection of cell-surface changes associated with malignant transformations. The usual methods of fractionating the cell to obtain plasma-membrane segments are disruptive and are influenced by uncertainties that frustrate most attempts to distinguish between the cell memebrane in the normal and malignant states. Here we describe a non-destructive microprobe technique using a light beam to monitor cell-surface changes in situ. Many investigations of tumor-cell behavior in culture are based on substrate-adherent populations of cells. By choosing the substrate to be optically dense and transparent, and by striking the substrate/cell interface by a light beam from the substrate side at an angle of incidence greater than the critical angle of total-internal reflection, an evanescent electromagnetic wave interacts with the peripheral zone of the substrate-adherent cells. Both the intensity and ellipse of polarization of the reflected wave can be monitored as the malignant transformation takes place, either chemically or virally. This technique should also provide new information concerning the molecular organization of the cell periphery from measurements on living cells.", "contents": "Optical detection of cell-surface changes associated with malignant transformations in vitro. A need exists for new experimental approaches for the direct detection of cell-surface changes associated with malignant transformations. The usual methods of fractionating the cell to obtain plasma-membrane segments are disruptive and are influenced by uncertainties that frustrate most attempts to distinguish between the cell memebrane in the normal and malignant states. Here we describe a non-destructive microprobe technique using a light beam to monitor cell-surface changes in situ. Many investigations of tumor-cell behavior in culture are based on substrate-adherent populations of cells. By choosing the substrate to be optically dense and transparent, and by striking the substrate/cell interface by a light beam from the substrate side at an angle of incidence greater than the critical angle of total-internal reflection, an evanescent electromagnetic wave interacts with the peripheral zone of the substrate-adherent cells. Both the intensity and ellipse of polarization of the reflected wave can be monitored as the malignant transformation takes place, either chemically or virally. This technique should also provide new information concerning the molecular organization of the cell periphery from measurements on living cells.", "PMID": 440142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4767", "title": "Freeze-etching of dispersions without contamination of the fracture faces.", "content": "The physical processes occuring while the fracture face of a dispersion is being freeze-etched are described and the resulting opportunities for elimination of contamination phenomena are discussed. An anticontamination device which can be used in combination with a drop freeze-fracture apparatus is described. The main advantages of the device, high effectiveness and great simplicity, are demonstrated by several practical examples.", "contents": "Freeze-etching of dispersions without contamination of the fracture faces. The physical processes occuring while the fracture face of a dispersion is being freeze-etched are described and the resulting opportunities for elimination of contamination phenomena are discussed. An anticontamination device which can be used in combination with a drop freeze-fracture apparatus is described. The main advantages of the device, high effectiveness and great simplicity, are demonstrated by several practical examples.", "PMID": 440143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4768", "title": "Some physicochemical characteristics of an immune lymphocyte product which inhibits the multiplication of toxoplasma within mouse macrophages.", "content": "In response to antigenic stimulation, the splenic lymphocytes from Toxoplasma-infected mice produce a factor which is called by the authors the Toxoplasma growth inhibitory factor (Toxo-GIF) and which inhibits the multiplication of Toxoplasma within nonimmune macrophages in vitro. In this study, partial characterization of murine Toxo-GIF was examined using Sephadex G-100 gel-filtration, isoelectric focusing, zonal electrophoresis and heat and enzymatic treatment. Peak activity of Toxo-GIF was found in a Sephadex G-100 fraction with a similar molecular size to that of the ovalbumin. The molecular weight of Toxo-GIF was calculated to be between 38,000 and 55,000. Toxo-GIF was stable to heating at 56 C for 30 min but lost its activity at 80 for 30 min or by exposure to pH values of 5 and 2. Exposure of Toxo-GIF to water-insoluble chymotrypsin or neuraminidase markedly decreased its ability to induce enhanced microbicidal activity of cultured macrophages, suggesting that Toxo-GIF was a glycoprotein. Furthermore, Toxo-GIF migrated in a region cathodal to mouse albumin on agar zone electrophoresis. Isoelectric focusing of active Sephadex fractions showed a well-defined peak of Toxo-GIF activity with an isoelectric point of pH 4.9 to 5.9.", "contents": "Some physicochemical characteristics of an immune lymphocyte product which inhibits the multiplication of toxoplasma within mouse macrophages. In response to antigenic stimulation, the splenic lymphocytes from Toxoplasma-infected mice produce a factor which is called by the authors the Toxoplasma growth inhibitory factor (Toxo-GIF) and which inhibits the multiplication of Toxoplasma within nonimmune macrophages in vitro. In this study, partial characterization of murine Toxo-GIF was examined using Sephadex G-100 gel-filtration, isoelectric focusing, zonal electrophoresis and heat and enzymatic treatment. Peak activity of Toxo-GIF was found in a Sephadex G-100 fraction with a similar molecular size to that of the ovalbumin. The molecular weight of Toxo-GIF was calculated to be between 38,000 and 55,000. Toxo-GIF was stable to heating at 56 C for 30 min but lost its activity at 80 for 30 min or by exposure to pH values of 5 and 2. Exposure of Toxo-GIF to water-insoluble chymotrypsin or neuraminidase markedly decreased its ability to induce enhanced microbicidal activity of cultured macrophages, suggesting that Toxo-GIF was a glycoprotein. Furthermore, Toxo-GIF migrated in a region cathodal to mouse albumin on agar zone electrophoresis. Isoelectric focusing of active Sephadex fractions showed a well-defined peak of Toxo-GIF activity with an isoelectric point of pH 4.9 to 5.9.", "PMID": 440144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4769", "title": "[Growth of Ectothiorhodospira shaposhnikovii on media with various sulfur compounds].", "content": "Ectothiorhodospira shaposhnikovii, strain 1, can use thiosulphate, sulphide, sulphite, sulphate, cystein, methionine and glutathione as a source of sulphur during its growth in the light and in the dark. Thiosulphate, sulphide and sulphite are used by the bacterium also as electron donors in photosynthesis so that it can grow in anaerobic autotrophic conditions. Growth of the cultures in the presence of various sulphur compounds depends on the concentration of sodium and potassium salts in the medium, particularly when the bacteria grow in the light and in the dark under aerobic conditions in the presence of such sulphur sources as sulphate, cysteine or methionine. The cells of E. shaposhnikovii produce thiosulphate reductase independent of a source of sulphur and growth conditions. The activity of sulphite reductase can be detected when the cells are cultivated in the presence of sulphates. The activity of APS-reductase has not been found in the cells grown under different conditions.", "contents": "[Growth of Ectothiorhodospira shaposhnikovii on media with various sulfur compounds]. Ectothiorhodospira shaposhnikovii, strain 1, can use thiosulphate, sulphide, sulphite, sulphate, cystein, methionine and glutathione as a source of sulphur during its growth in the light and in the dark. Thiosulphate, sulphide and sulphite are used by the bacterium also as electron donors in photosynthesis so that it can grow in anaerobic autotrophic conditions. Growth of the cultures in the presence of various sulphur compounds depends on the concentration of sodium and potassium salts in the medium, particularly when the bacteria grow in the light and in the dark under aerobic conditions in the presence of such sulphur sources as sulphate, cysteine or methionine. The cells of E. shaposhnikovii produce thiosulphate reductase independent of a source of sulphur and growth conditions. The activity of sulphite reductase can be detected when the cells are cultivated in the presence of sulphates. The activity of APS-reductase has not been found in the cells grown under different conditions.", "PMID": 440157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4770", "title": "[Participation of methylcobalamin in the methylation of Propionibacterium shermanii DNA].", "content": "Propionibacterium shermanii is characterized by a high content of 5-methylcytosine (5 MC). The level of 5-MC in B12-deficient cells of the culture is twice as low as in the control. The in vitro treatment of DNA isolated from the B12-deficient cells with methyl-cobalamin in the presence of the extract of control cells possessing the activity of DNA-methylase increases the content of 5-MC to the control level. No additional methylation of DNA in vitro takes place in the absence of the methylase system and in the presence of other forms of corrynoids. The methylating activity is displayed either in the presence of methionine or without it. The inhibitor of methylcobalamin, i.e. diftorchlormethyl-cobalamin, blocks methylation of DNA. Small quantities of S-adenosylmethionine are necessary for the reaction of methylation.", "contents": "[Participation of methylcobalamin in the methylation of Propionibacterium shermanii DNA]. Propionibacterium shermanii is characterized by a high content of 5-methylcytosine (5 MC). The level of 5-MC in B12-deficient cells of the culture is twice as low as in the control. The in vitro treatment of DNA isolated from the B12-deficient cells with methyl-cobalamin in the presence of the extract of control cells possessing the activity of DNA-methylase increases the content of 5-MC to the control level. No additional methylation of DNA in vitro takes place in the absence of the methylase system and in the presence of other forms of corrynoids. The methylating activity is displayed either in the presence of methionine or without it. The inhibitor of methylcobalamin, i.e. diftorchlormethyl-cobalamin, blocks methylation of DNA. Small quantities of S-adenosylmethionine are necessary for the reaction of methylation.", "PMID": 440158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4771", "title": "[Bacillus thuringiensis plasmid DNA].", "content": "Plasmid DNAs were isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis and their physico-chemical properties were studied. The DNAs were purified using ultracentrifugation in a CsCl2 density gradient. The molecular weight of these extrachromosomal DNAs determined by electrophoresis in 0.6% agarose gel and by electron microscopy was 6 . 10(6)--10 . 10(6) daltons; a DNA with a molecular weight of 90 . 10(6) daltons was also found. Digestion with restriction endonuclease EcoRI yielded fragments of the plasmid DNAs with cohesive ends; these were further identified by means of electrophoresis in 1% agarose gel.", "contents": "[Bacillus thuringiensis plasmid DNA]. Plasmid DNAs were isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis and their physico-chemical properties were studied. The DNAs were purified using ultracentrifugation in a CsCl2 density gradient. The molecular weight of these extrachromosomal DNAs determined by electrophoresis in 0.6% agarose gel and by electron microscopy was 6 . 10(6)--10 . 10(6) daltons; a DNA with a molecular weight of 90 . 10(6) daltons was also found. Digestion with restriction endonuclease EcoRI yielded fragments of the plasmid DNAs with cohesive ends; these were further identified by means of electrophoresis in 1% agarose gel.", "PMID": 440159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4772", "title": "[Change in the morphological structure of the population and in the flavin level in the cells of Candida guilliermondii yeasts under periodic cultivation].", "content": "The growth of Candida guilliermondii on media with glucose and acetate is described by statistical functions for cell volume (size) distribution. Special instrument has been used to measure the volume of cells and volume distributions. Changes in the morphological structure of populations (both in the average size of cells and in the extent of the size heterogeneity) were detected throughout the whole period of the cultural growth including the exponential phase. These changes hardly differed during the growth on media with glucose or with acetate. The content of flavins in cells also varied in the course of periodic growth. Their total level in cells, as well as the level of FAD, was higher in the exponential phase of growth than during the subsequent phases. Changes in the intracellular level of flavins were found also in yeast populations synchronized by nitrogen limitation.", "contents": "[Change in the morphological structure of the population and in the flavin level in the cells of Candida guilliermondii yeasts under periodic cultivation]. The growth of Candida guilliermondii on media with glucose and acetate is described by statistical functions for cell volume (size) distribution. Special instrument has been used to measure the volume of cells and volume distributions. Changes in the morphological structure of populations (both in the average size of cells and in the extent of the size heterogeneity) were detected throughout the whole period of the cultural growth including the exponential phase. These changes hardly differed during the growth on media with glucose or with acetate. The content of flavins in cells also varied in the course of periodic growth. Their total level in cells, as well as the level of FAD, was higher in the exponential phase of growth than during the subsequent phases. Changes in the intracellular level of flavins were found also in yeast populations synchronized by nitrogen limitation.", "PMID": 440160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4773", "title": "[Change in the structural organization of the respiratory apparatus of Mycobacterium rubrum depending on the cultivation conditions].", "content": "Changes in the respiration apparatus of Mycobacterium rubrum were studied in the lag phase. The number of mitochondrial analogues was found to increase in parallel with the cellular growth, reaching a certain density of distribution per unit surface of the cells. The analogues of mitochondria were very labile. They rearranged easily, depending on the conditions of bacterial cultivation, but were always present in the cells as a discrete structure. The cellular growth and an increase of the mitochondrial analogues in them at 24 and 37 degrees C ceased by the 6-8th hr, regardless of the presence of glucose in the medium. Transition of the culture to the log phase at 24 degrees C was delayed to 16-18 hrs. After division, cells cultivated in media containing glucose were much larger than those grown in media without glucose, and the density of distribution in them of the mitochondrial analogues was higher. A decrease of temperature had no effect on the bacterial growth, but inhibited their division. The rate of oxygen uptake by cell suspensions at different periods of the lag phase correlated with the content of the mitochondrial analogues in them.", "contents": "[Change in the structural organization of the respiratory apparatus of Mycobacterium rubrum depending on the cultivation conditions]. Changes in the respiration apparatus of Mycobacterium rubrum were studied in the lag phase. The number of mitochondrial analogues was found to increase in parallel with the cellular growth, reaching a certain density of distribution per unit surface of the cells. The analogues of mitochondria were very labile. They rearranged easily, depending on the conditions of bacterial cultivation, but were always present in the cells as a discrete structure. The cellular growth and an increase of the mitochondrial analogues in them at 24 and 37 degrees C ceased by the 6-8th hr, regardless of the presence of glucose in the medium. Transition of the culture to the log phase at 24 degrees C was delayed to 16-18 hrs. After division, cells cultivated in media containing glucose were much larger than those grown in media without glucose, and the density of distribution in them of the mitochondrial analogues was higher. A decrease of temperature had no effect on the bacterial growth, but inhibited their division. The rate of oxygen uptake by cell suspensions at different periods of the lag phase correlated with the content of the mitochondrial analogues in them.", "PMID": 440162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4774", "title": "[Lysogeny of Rhizobium japonicum and the sensitivity of these cultures to phages isolated from soil].", "content": "Twenty cultures of Rhizobium japonicum of various origin were tested for lysogeny using a cross technique with a preliminary UV induction and without it as well as by electron microscopy. None of the cultures was found in the lysogenic state. Phages active against Rh. japonicum were detected in four soil samples on which soybean plants were grown; 27 phages were isolated by the enrichment method and 3 phages without enrichment. The phages were capable of lysis of only Rh. japonicum cultures and differed in the spectrum of lytic action. Some of them were very specific: 9 phages caused lysis of only one among the 28 tested cultures, and 10 phages lysed 2 cultures. Phages with a broad spectrum of lytic action induced lysis of 7-9 cultures. Some of the phages isolated from soils of different type were identical and some were similar in the spectrum of lytic action. Among 28 cultures of Rh. japonicum, 8 cultures were sensitive to all of the 30 phages isolated from soil and 2 cultures were sensitive to most of the phages; the remaining cultures were sensitive to 1-8 phages. Phages and cultures have been selected which can be used for experimental preparation of lysogenic systems and further studies of lysogeny in Rh. japonicum.", "contents": "[Lysogeny of Rhizobium japonicum and the sensitivity of these cultures to phages isolated from soil]. Twenty cultures of Rhizobium japonicum of various origin were tested for lysogeny using a cross technique with a preliminary UV induction and without it as well as by electron microscopy. None of the cultures was found in the lysogenic state. Phages active against Rh. japonicum were detected in four soil samples on which soybean plants were grown; 27 phages were isolated by the enrichment method and 3 phages without enrichment. The phages were capable of lysis of only Rh. japonicum cultures and differed in the spectrum of lytic action. Some of them were very specific: 9 phages caused lysis of only one among the 28 tested cultures, and 10 phages lysed 2 cultures. Phages with a broad spectrum of lytic action induced lysis of 7-9 cultures. Some of the phages isolated from soils of different type were identical and some were similar in the spectrum of lytic action. Among 28 cultures of Rh. japonicum, 8 cultures were sensitive to all of the 30 phages isolated from soil and 2 cultures were sensitive to most of the phages; the remaining cultures were sensitive to 1-8 phages. Phages and cultures have been selected which can be used for experimental preparation of lysogenic systems and further studies of lysogeny in Rh. japonicum.", "PMID": 440166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4775", "title": "[Electron microscopic structure of the Oidium, Oospora fragrans, a producer of lipase].", "content": "The fungus Oospora fragrans Berkh. was studied by electron microscopy. Both aerial and submerged oidia were found to be formed by division (septation) of mycelial hyphae in the course of growth. The ultrastructure of the aerial and submerged oidia was identical as was established by the techniques of ultratomy and freezing-etching. The latter technique revealed a certain difference in the morphology of the cytoplasmic membrane of these cells. The oidia of this fungus (arthrospores) differed in their structure from the arthrospores of actinomycetes.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic structure of the Oidium, Oospora fragrans, a producer of lipase]. The fungus Oospora fragrans Berkh. was studied by electron microscopy. Both aerial and submerged oidia were found to be formed by division (septation) of mycelial hyphae in the course of growth. The ultrastructure of the aerial and submerged oidia was identical as was established by the techniques of ultratomy and freezing-etching. The latter technique revealed a certain difference in the morphology of the cytoplasmic membrane of these cells. The oidia of this fungus (arthrospores) differed in their structure from the arthrospores of actinomycetes.", "PMID": 440165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4776", "title": "[Effect of prolonged, continuous fermentation on the morphology and physiology of fixed yeasts].", "content": "As a result of long continuous fermentation of brewing wort by fixed yeast cells, the number of cells in the fermenter increased as well as their wet weight. The average dimensions of cells (length, width, volume) also increased. The length-to-width ratio of cells decreased. The fermenting activity decreased if calculated per wet weight but remained at the same level if calculated per cell. The overall productiveness of the fermenter with a carrier increased in proportion to the number of cells but not to their weight. The morphological and physiological properties of yeast cells changed as compared to the original ones.", "contents": "[Effect of prolonged, continuous fermentation on the morphology and physiology of fixed yeasts]. As a result of long continuous fermentation of brewing wort by fixed yeast cells, the number of cells in the fermenter increased as well as their wet weight. The average dimensions of cells (length, width, volume) also increased. The length-to-width ratio of cells decreased. The fermenting activity decreased if calculated per wet weight but remained at the same level if calculated per cell. The overall productiveness of the fermenter with a carrier increased in proportion to the number of cells but not to their weight. The morphological and physiological properties of yeast cells changed as compared to the original ones.", "PMID": 440163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4777", "title": "[Deformation of lucerne root hairs caused by the growth substances and culture broth filtrates of Rhizobium meliloti].", "content": "Deformation of lucerne root hairs caused by the action of beta-indolylacetic acid (IAA) and alpha-naphthylacetic acid (NAA) differs from deformation induced by Rhizobium meliloti. High concentrations of IAA brought about abnormal deformation of root hairs wherease the action of average concentrations of IAA resulted in corkscrew-like winding and wavy structures. No deformation was observed under the action of low IAA concentrations or the cultural broth of Rhizobium. Infective filaments in root hairs were found only upon infection with pure cultures of Rhizobium.", "contents": "[Deformation of lucerne root hairs caused by the growth substances and culture broth filtrates of Rhizobium meliloti]. Deformation of lucerne root hairs caused by the action of beta-indolylacetic acid (IAA) and alpha-naphthylacetic acid (NAA) differs from deformation induced by Rhizobium meliloti. High concentrations of IAA brought about abnormal deformation of root hairs wherease the action of average concentrations of IAA resulted in corkscrew-like winding and wavy structures. No deformation was observed under the action of low IAA concentrations or the cultural broth of Rhizobium. Infective filaments in root hairs were found only upon infection with pure cultures of Rhizobium.", "PMID": 440167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4778", "title": "[Hydrocarbon-oxidizing microflora of uncontaminated seawater].", "content": "The distribution of hydrocarbon-oxidizing microflora in noncontaminated sea waters was studied in the northern region of the Pacific Ocean in the vicinity of the Copper Island. The total number of microorganisms was assayed as well as the number of heterotrophic, oligocarbophilic and hydrocarbon-oxidizing microorganisms. Oligocarbophilic bacteria were the most abundant group (from 120 to 24,000 cells per 1 ml), and predominated in 12 stations among 23. The number of heterotrophic organisms was not great and did not exceed 200 cells per 1 ml in 13 stations. A solid medium with an oil product (1%) which was used to determine the number of hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria gave overstated results due to the growth of oligocarbophilic forms that could survive in the presence of high hydrocarbon concentrations in the medium. A silica gel medium with an oil product is recommended. Despite the absence of oil contaminations in littoral waters, hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria were found in all samples and their content was high in some stations. This can be accounted for by the variety of nutrient requirements of these microorganisms and, apparently, by the presence in water of high molecular weight aliphatic lipids inding the capacity to oxidize hydrocarbons. Organisms belonging to the genera Mycobacterium and Arthrobacter prevailed among hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria.", "contents": "[Hydrocarbon-oxidizing microflora of uncontaminated seawater]. The distribution of hydrocarbon-oxidizing microflora in noncontaminated sea waters was studied in the northern region of the Pacific Ocean in the vicinity of the Copper Island. The total number of microorganisms was assayed as well as the number of heterotrophic, oligocarbophilic and hydrocarbon-oxidizing microorganisms. Oligocarbophilic bacteria were the most abundant group (from 120 to 24,000 cells per 1 ml), and predominated in 12 stations among 23. The number of heterotrophic organisms was not great and did not exceed 200 cells per 1 ml in 13 stations. A solid medium with an oil product (1%) which was used to determine the number of hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria gave overstated results due to the growth of oligocarbophilic forms that could survive in the presence of high hydrocarbon concentrations in the medium. A silica gel medium with an oil product is recommended. Despite the absence of oil contaminations in littoral waters, hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria were found in all samples and their content was high in some stations. This can be accounted for by the variety of nutrient requirements of these microorganisms and, apparently, by the presence in water of high molecular weight aliphatic lipids inding the capacity to oxidize hydrocarbons. Organisms belonging to the genera Mycobacterium and Arthrobacter prevailed among hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria.", "PMID": 440168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4779", "title": "[Submicroscopic organization and spore formation of Desulfotomaculum nigrificans].", "content": "The submicroscopic organization and spore formation were studied in two strains of Desulfotomaculum nigrificans, 435 and 781. Cross-sections of cells fixed with osmic acid and contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate revealed a cell wall devoid of the outer lipoprotein membrane, which was typical of gram-positive bacteria. The cell wall consisted of three electron-dense layers and two layers of lower electron density. A layer of a microcapsule having fibrillar structure and a thickness of 23-33 nm was detected on the surface of the cell wall. The cytoplasmic membrane and intracellular membrane structures were represented by the Robertson membrane about 9 nm thick. The cytoplasm contained electron-dense polyribosomal granules and inclusions having fine-granular structure. The nucleoid was located in the central part of the cell as an electron-transparent zone penetrated with electron-dense DNA threads 2.5 nm thick. The paper presents microphotographs of the main stages of spore formation which follows the mechanism described for bacteria of the Bacillus genus. The poles of spindle-like cells have electron-dense disk-shaped formations covered with a three-layer membrane and containing electron-dense granules, apparently, corresponding to polyribosomes.", "contents": "[Submicroscopic organization and spore formation of Desulfotomaculum nigrificans]. The submicroscopic organization and spore formation were studied in two strains of Desulfotomaculum nigrificans, 435 and 781. Cross-sections of cells fixed with osmic acid and contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate revealed a cell wall devoid of the outer lipoprotein membrane, which was typical of gram-positive bacteria. The cell wall consisted of three electron-dense layers and two layers of lower electron density. A layer of a microcapsule having fibrillar structure and a thickness of 23-33 nm was detected on the surface of the cell wall. The cytoplasmic membrane and intracellular membrane structures were represented by the Robertson membrane about 9 nm thick. The cytoplasm contained electron-dense polyribosomal granules and inclusions having fine-granular structure. The nucleoid was located in the central part of the cell as an electron-transparent zone penetrated with electron-dense DNA threads 2.5 nm thick. The paper presents microphotographs of the main stages of spore formation which follows the mechanism described for bacteria of the Bacillus genus. The poles of spindle-like cells have electron-dense disk-shaped formations covered with a three-layer membrane and containing electron-dense granules, apparently, corresponding to polyribosomes.", "PMID": 440164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4780", "title": "[Relationship of hydrogen bacteria to carbon monoxide].", "content": "The purpose of this work was to study the ability of various cultures of hydrogen bacteria to grow in a gaseous mixture containing, apart from H2, O2 and CO2, carbon monoxide at a concentration of 10% (v/v) and higher. In contrast to CO-oxidizing bacteria, these organisms could not use CO as a sole source of energy. Among 17 studied strains of hydrogen bacteria, only those belonging to the group Alcaligenes eutrophus could withstand 10% of CO (v/v) in a gaseous mixture.", "contents": "[Relationship of hydrogen bacteria to carbon monoxide]. The purpose of this work was to study the ability of various cultures of hydrogen bacteria to grow in a gaseous mixture containing, apart from H2, O2 and CO2, carbon monoxide at a concentration of 10% (v/v) and higher. In contrast to CO-oxidizing bacteria, these organisms could not use CO as a sole source of energy. Among 17 studied strains of hydrogen bacteria, only those belonging to the group Alcaligenes eutrophus could withstand 10% of CO (v/v) in a gaseous mixture.", "PMID": 440170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4781", "title": "[Vertical distribution and the characteristics of the species composition of the microorganisms of some stratified lakes in Estonia].", "content": "The total number, vertical distribution, and special composition of microorganisms from three stratified lakes in the South-Eastern Estonia containing hydrogen sulfide and ferrous iron were studied in March, 1976. The number of bacteria was lowest in surface water samples (1.2-1.9 x 10(6) cells/ml). It increased first in the zone where oxygen disappeared (2.4-7.6 x 10(6) cells/ml), then slightly decreased, and again increased near the bottom where it became maximal (3.7-14.0 x 10(6) cells/ml). The vertical distribution of individual microbial species corresponded to ecological niches. The content of Spirillum and Flexibacter, colonies of parallel rods containing gaseous vacuoles, was highest in the zone in which oxygen was still present. Iron bacteria, purple sulfur bacteria, colourless sulfur bacteria, and green bacteria Chloronema appeared deeper, in the microaerophilic conditions. Ancalochloris perfilievil, Chloroplana vacuolata, Chlorochromatium aggregatum, Pelochromatium roseum, Hyalosoris sp., and Peloploca sp. were found in the strictly anaerobic conditions. Morphological forms of microorganisms were most versatile in the region of contact between the aerobic and anaerobic zones. Most of the morphologically peculiar species of microorganisms were detected in all three lakes, but some bacterial forms were typical of some of the lakes.", "contents": "[Vertical distribution and the characteristics of the species composition of the microorganisms of some stratified lakes in Estonia]. The total number, vertical distribution, and special composition of microorganisms from three stratified lakes in the South-Eastern Estonia containing hydrogen sulfide and ferrous iron were studied in March, 1976. The number of bacteria was lowest in surface water samples (1.2-1.9 x 10(6) cells/ml). It increased first in the zone where oxygen disappeared (2.4-7.6 x 10(6) cells/ml), then slightly decreased, and again increased near the bottom where it became maximal (3.7-14.0 x 10(6) cells/ml). The vertical distribution of individual microbial species corresponded to ecological niches. The content of Spirillum and Flexibacter, colonies of parallel rods containing gaseous vacuoles, was highest in the zone in which oxygen was still present. Iron bacteria, purple sulfur bacteria, colourless sulfur bacteria, and green bacteria Chloronema appeared deeper, in the microaerophilic conditions. Ancalochloris perfilievil, Chloroplana vacuolata, Chlorochromatium aggregatum, Pelochromatium roseum, Hyalosoris sp., and Peloploca sp. were found in the strictly anaerobic conditions. Morphological forms of microorganisms were most versatile in the region of contact between the aerobic and anaerobic zones. Most of the morphologically peculiar species of microorganisms were detected in all three lakes, but some bacterial forms were typical of some of the lakes.", "PMID": 440169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4782", "title": "[Amnestic episode (transient global amnesia) (author's transl)].", "content": "The appearance of the amnestic episode is discussed by presentation of 4 own cases and by means of literature. The amnestic episode is a mental disorder, which exclusively affects short-term memory with a sudden onset and a duration of some hours, seldom up to several days, and often it is connected with a retrograde amnesia. The latter disappears in all cases, but there remains a permanent lack of memory for the time of the episode. Recidivism is rare. Internal, neurological and neurophysiological findings during and after the amnestic episode regularly are normal, at least certainly without characteristic findings. The main age of manifestation lies between the 40th and 70th year of life, there is no priority between women and men. Probably a disturbance of blood flow in the supplying area of the basilaric arteria is responsible, though the proof is still missing.", "contents": "[Amnestic episode (transient global amnesia) (author's transl)]. The appearance of the amnestic episode is discussed by presentation of 4 own cases and by means of literature. The amnestic episode is a mental disorder, which exclusively affects short-term memory with a sudden onset and a duration of some hours, seldom up to several days, and often it is connected with a retrograde amnesia. The latter disappears in all cases, but there remains a permanent lack of memory for the time of the episode. Recidivism is rare. Internal, neurological and neurophysiological findings during and after the amnestic episode regularly are normal, at least certainly without characteristic findings. The main age of manifestation lies between the 40th and 70th year of life, there is no priority between women and men. Probably a disturbance of blood flow in the supplying area of the basilaric arteria is responsible, though the proof is still missing.", "PMID": 440180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4783", "title": "Positron emission tomography.", "content": "Conventional nuclear imaging techniques utilizing lead collimation rely on radioactive tracers with little role in human physiology. The principles of imaging based on coincidence detection of the annihilation radiation produced in positron decay indicate that this mode of detection is uniquely suited for use in emission computed tomography. The only gamma-ray-emitting isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen are positron emitters, which yield energies too high for conventional imaging techniques. Thus development of positron emitters in nuclear medicine imaging would make possible the use of a new class of physiologically active, positron-emitting radiopharmaceuticals. The application of these principles is described in the use of a physiologically active compound labeled with a positron emitter and positron-emission computed tomography to measure the local cerebral metabolic rate in humans.", "contents": "Positron emission tomography. Conventional nuclear imaging techniques utilizing lead collimation rely on radioactive tracers with little role in human physiology. The principles of imaging based on coincidence detection of the annihilation radiation produced in positron decay indicate that this mode of detection is uniquely suited for use in emission computed tomography. The only gamma-ray-emitting isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen are positron emitters, which yield energies too high for conventional imaging techniques. Thus development of positron emitters in nuclear medicine imaging would make possible the use of a new class of physiologically active, positron-emitting radiopharmaceuticals. The application of these principles is described in the use of a physiologically active compound labeled with a positron emitter and positron-emission computed tomography to measure the local cerebral metabolic rate in humans.", "PMID": 440173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4784", "title": "Gamma cameras--state of the art.", "content": "The growth of nuclear medicine has paralleled the development and acceptance of gamma cameras, which are stationary instruments that produce an image of an isotope distribution. The most successful gamma camera is based on a large, single crystal of the scintillator sodium iodide coupled to an array of photomultiplier tubes and electronic networks to determine the location of a gamma ray. Current cameras are capable of spatial resolution of 4.0 mm or better. Other types of gamma cameras have been developed, including the multi-crystal camera and a limited number of instruments using gas detectors and semiconductor detectors. The scintillation type of gamma camera will continue to be the dominant camera for the next 5 to 10 years, and will continue to gradually improve. Most significant improvements will result from application of digital electronics to position circuits.", "contents": "Gamma cameras--state of the art. The growth of nuclear medicine has paralleled the development and acceptance of gamma cameras, which are stationary instruments that produce an image of an isotope distribution. The most successful gamma camera is based on a large, single crystal of the scintillator sodium iodide coupled to an array of photomultiplier tubes and electronic networks to determine the location of a gamma ray. Current cameras are capable of spatial resolution of 4.0 mm or better. Other types of gamma cameras have been developed, including the multi-crystal camera and a limited number of instruments using gas detectors and semiconductor detectors. The scintillation type of gamma camera will continue to be the dominant camera for the next 5 to 10 years, and will continue to gradually improve. Most significant improvements will result from application of digital electronics to position circuits.", "PMID": 440176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4785", "title": "Computers in nuclear imaging.", "content": "Currently, the practice of nuclear medicine in larger institutions is practically dependent upon the availability of a computer system. Gamma cameras are connected online to mini-computer systems which have the ability to collect image data in a number of different formats. This permits sophisticated analysis techniques to be used so that quantitative data may be extracted from the images. In some instances, as in tomography, data are reconstructed into images to give views of organs that would otherwise be impossible to obtain.", "contents": "Computers in nuclear imaging. Currently, the practice of nuclear medicine in larger institutions is practically dependent upon the availability of a computer system. Gamma cameras are connected online to mini-computer systems which have the ability to collect image data in a number of different formats. This permits sophisticated analysis techniques to be used so that quantitative data may be extracted from the images. In some instances, as in tomography, data are reconstructed into images to give views of organs that would otherwise be impossible to obtain.", "PMID": 440175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4786", "title": "[First experiences in severe intoxications with diaethylpentenamide (author's transl)].", "content": "14 patients suffering from diaethylpentenamide-intoxication were treated in the medical School Hannover, in the period from January 1 to June 6, 1978. 7 of the patients had to be treated in the intensive care unit, and of these 5 received haemoperfusion therapy. The indications for haemoperfusion were severe clinical symptoms and a plasma diaethylpentenamide-level in excess 285 mu mol/l. The duration of coma was significantly less for patients treated by haemoperfusions than for those without haemoperfusion. Although preparations containing diaethylpentenamide are only available through prescription in Germany now, it can be expected that these drugs will continue to be used in cases of suicidal intent. Haemoperfusion seems to be the most effective therapy of diaethylpentenamide-intoxication.", "contents": "[First experiences in severe intoxications with diaethylpentenamide (author's transl)]. 14 patients suffering from diaethylpentenamide-intoxication were treated in the medical School Hannover, in the period from January 1 to June 6, 1978. 7 of the patients had to be treated in the intensive care unit, and of these 5 received haemoperfusion therapy. The indications for haemoperfusion were severe clinical symptoms and a plasma diaethylpentenamide-level in excess 285 mu mol/l. The duration of coma was significantly less for patients treated by haemoperfusions than for those without haemoperfusion. Although preparations containing diaethylpentenamide are only available through prescription in Germany now, it can be expected that these drugs will continue to be used in cases of suicidal intent. Haemoperfusion seems to be the most effective therapy of diaethylpentenamide-intoxication.", "PMID": 440182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4787", "title": "Criteria for determining steam sterilization cycles for lubricated and nonlubricated mechanical equipment.", "content": "Requirements and procedures for determining steam sterilization cycles for lubricated and nonlubricated, complex, mechanical equipment are established. Factors affecting exposure times are discussed, as are procedures and data needed to determine the penetrability of steam into mechanical equipment, and the effect of lubricating oil in impeding steam penetration to the spore. The total effects of these factors in sterilizing times are presented. Sterilizers with a prevacuum cycle, which can remove air from the equipment efficiently and replace it with saturated steam, are recommended for complex mechanical equipment.", "contents": "Criteria for determining steam sterilization cycles for lubricated and nonlubricated mechanical equipment. Requirements and procedures for determining steam sterilization cycles for lubricated and nonlubricated, complex, mechanical equipment are established. Factors affecting exposure times are discussed, as are procedures and data needed to determine the penetrability of steam into mechanical equipment, and the effect of lubricating oil in impeding steam penetration to the spore. The total effects of these factors in sterilizing times are presented. Sterilizers with a prevacuum cycle, which can remove air from the equipment efficiently and replace it with saturated steam, are recommended for complex mechanical equipment.", "PMID": 440177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4788", "title": "Scintillation probe detector in the assessment of cardiovascular disease.", "content": "A simple device that permits measurement of cardiac function in humans after intravenous injection of technetium-99m-labeled albumin or red blood cells is described. The device (nuclear stethoscope cardiac probe) is based on the application of microprocessor technology to a scintillation detector. It can be used to monitor ventricular function continuously and in exercise testing for the detection of coronary heart disease.", "contents": "Scintillation probe detector in the assessment of cardiovascular disease. A simple device that permits measurement of cardiac function in humans after intravenous injection of technetium-99m-labeled albumin or red blood cells is described. The device (nuclear stethoscope cardiac probe) is based on the application of microprocessor technology to a scintillation detector. It can be used to monitor ventricular function continuously and in exercise testing for the detection of coronary heart disease.", "PMID": 440174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4789", "title": "Patterns of the pediatric pneumogram.", "content": "The pediatric pneumogram (PPG) is a technique that permits continuous, magnetic-tape recording of the respiratory pattern of infants over an extended period of time. The technique, introduced in 1975, uses an impedance method. As a diagnostic tool, PPG can objectively quantify rate of respiration, the respiratory rhythm, the relative amplitude of respiratory activity, and the incidence of apnea, as well as any resultant bradycardia. Investigations are presently under way using PPG to study the relationship between apnea and sudden infant death syndrome.", "contents": "Patterns of the pediatric pneumogram. The pediatric pneumogram (PPG) is a technique that permits continuous, magnetic-tape recording of the respiratory pattern of infants over an extended period of time. The technique, introduced in 1975, uses an impedance method. As a diagnostic tool, PPG can objectively quantify rate of respiration, the respiratory rhythm, the relative amplitude of respiratory activity, and the incidence of apnea, as well as any resultant bradycardia. Investigations are presently under way using PPG to study the relationship between apnea and sudden infant death syndrome.", "PMID": 440178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4790", "title": "[Clinical and endoscopic radiologic results after transduodenal papilloplasty (author's transl)].", "content": "The study comprises 56 patients, who underwent transduodenal papilloplasty. More than 15% were symptom-free at least 4 years following surgery. All the symptoms the patients suffered from were nonspecific and the pathological findings of the blood samples were not correlated with the width of the orificium of the papilla of Vater or the diameter of the common bile duct. In 49 patients the ERCP was performed. In 48 cases the retrograde cholangiography was successful, in 1 case only the retrograde pancreatography was possible. In all patients we found normal efflux of contrastmedium out of the papilla. Bile stones, one localized in the common bile duct and the other in the cyst remnant were the most important findings. The diameters of the common bile ducts varied considerably and were not dependent on the velocity of the efflux of the contrast medium. Contrary to the observations of other authors, in only 15% of our patients free air bubbles were found in the bile tree. Peripapillary diverticula of the duodenum were detected in 15% of our patients, but did not lead to compression or obstruction of the common bile duct. Even without histologic examination of the liver, we believe that a broad papilloplasty of the papilla prevents an ascending cholangitis or other related complications.", "contents": "[Clinical and endoscopic radiologic results after transduodenal papilloplasty (author's transl)]. The study comprises 56 patients, who underwent transduodenal papilloplasty. More than 15% were symptom-free at least 4 years following surgery. All the symptoms the patients suffered from were nonspecific and the pathological findings of the blood samples were not correlated with the width of the orificium of the papilla of Vater or the diameter of the common bile duct. In 49 patients the ERCP was performed. In 48 cases the retrograde cholangiography was successful, in 1 case only the retrograde pancreatography was possible. In all patients we found normal efflux of contrastmedium out of the papilla. Bile stones, one localized in the common bile duct and the other in the cyst remnant were the most important findings. The diameters of the common bile ducts varied considerably and were not dependent on the velocity of the efflux of the contrast medium. Contrary to the observations of other authors, in only 15% of our patients free air bubbles were found in the bile tree. Peripapillary diverticula of the duodenum were detected in 15% of our patients, but did not lead to compression or obstruction of the common bile duct. Even without histologic examination of the liver, we believe that a broad papilloplasty of the papilla prevents an ascending cholangitis or other related complications.", "PMID": 440190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4791", "title": "[Benign liver-cell-tumors and oral contraceptives (author's transl)].", "content": "The report concerns two female patients who had taken contraceptives for a period of eight to ten years and were found to have benign liver-cell-tumor. The possibility of liver-cell-tumor induced by oral contraceptives is discussed with regard to the literature.", "contents": "[Benign liver-cell-tumors and oral contraceptives (author's transl)]. The report concerns two female patients who had taken contraceptives for a period of eight to ten years and were found to have benign liver-cell-tumor. The possibility of liver-cell-tumor induced by oral contraceptives is discussed with regard to the literature.", "PMID": 440191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4792", "title": "[Complications following aorto-iliac surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "We report on complications following vascular surgery of the aorto-iliac segment. Recurrent occlusions were observed in 15.3% of our cases. The operative mortality was 1.8%. The etiology of anastomotic false aneurysms is discussed. One deep graft infection was successfully managed. Ureteric lesions following aortic surgery are exceptional. No ischemic colitis occurred among our patients. Two cases of aorto-intestinal fistulae are described.", "contents": "[Complications following aorto-iliac surgery (author's transl)]. We report on complications following vascular surgery of the aorto-iliac segment. Recurrent occlusions were observed in 15.3% of our cases. The operative mortality was 1.8%. The etiology of anastomotic false aneurysms is discussed. One deep graft infection was successfully managed. Ureteric lesions following aortic surgery are exceptional. No ischemic colitis occurred among our patients. Two cases of aorto-intestinal fistulae are described.", "PMID": 440192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4793", "title": "[Infection prophylaxis with cefamandole. Clinical evaluation in the open heart-surgery and the prosthetic vascular reconstruction (author's transl)].", "content": "The experience with the cefamandole prophylaxis in 244 patients with open heart-surgery, and another 84 patients operated upon on prosthetic vascular reconstruction was evaluated. No case of endocarditis, sepsis or massive wound infection with infected prosthesis was found in the reviewed patients. Considering the fact that patients undergoing open heart-surgery and prosthetic vascular reconstruction are subjected to much more bacterial contamination than patients undergoing any other surgical procedure, the cephalosporin treatment (in our study cefamandole) should be considered the antibiotic of choice in preventing of infection during and after such surgical intervention.", "contents": "[Infection prophylaxis with cefamandole. Clinical evaluation in the open heart-surgery and the prosthetic vascular reconstruction (author's transl)]. The experience with the cefamandole prophylaxis in 244 patients with open heart-surgery, and another 84 patients operated upon on prosthetic vascular reconstruction was evaluated. No case of endocarditis, sepsis or massive wound infection with infected prosthesis was found in the reviewed patients. Considering the fact that patients undergoing open heart-surgery and prosthetic vascular reconstruction are subjected to much more bacterial contamination than patients undergoing any other surgical procedure, the cephalosporin treatment (in our study cefamandole) should be considered the antibiotic of choice in preventing of infection during and after such surgical intervention.", "PMID": 440193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4794", "title": "[Pregnancies without complications of patients with jejuno-ileal bypass because of extreme obesity (author's transl)].", "content": "Report about 3 pregnancies without complications of patients, who had been treated by jejuno-ileal bypass because of extreme obesity. There is no increased risk for the successful finishing of a pregnancy of these patients. A close cooperation between the treating doctors is necessary to cope with possible problems.", "contents": "[Pregnancies without complications of patients with jejuno-ileal bypass because of extreme obesity (author's transl)]. Report about 3 pregnancies without complications of patients, who had been treated by jejuno-ileal bypass because of extreme obesity. There is no increased risk for the successful finishing of a pregnancy of these patients. A close cooperation between the treating doctors is necessary to cope with possible problems.", "PMID": 440196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4795", "title": "[Clinical aspects and morphology of placenta increta and placenta percreta (two case examples) (author's transl)].", "content": "The cases of a female patient with placenta increta and of another patient with placenta percreta and rupture of the uterus are presented. Both women were 41 years old, multiparae and had a history of multiple abortions as well as a Caesarean section. In both cases a Caesarean section, followed by a hysterectomy and supracervical amputation of the uterus respectively was done. Frequency, clinical aspects, histology and aetiology of the above described disorders of placentation are discussed.", "contents": "[Clinical aspects and morphology of placenta increta and placenta percreta (two case examples) (author's transl)]. The cases of a female patient with placenta increta and of another patient with placenta percreta and rupture of the uterus are presented. Both women were 41 years old, multiparae and had a history of multiple abortions as well as a Caesarean section. In both cases a Caesarean section, followed by a hysterectomy and supracervical amputation of the uterus respectively was done. Frequency, clinical aspects, histology and aetiology of the above described disorders of placentation are discussed.", "PMID": 440197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4796", "title": "Epidemiology of influenza in Lower Saxony during the period 1968-1978 with particular emphasis on subtypes A(H3N2) and A(H1N1) in winter 1977-78.", "content": "The influenza surveillance in Lower Saxony is based mainly on laboratory investigations, and especially those which involve the isolation of influenza viruses throughout the year. These investigations have provided information on the circulation of influenza viruses and of the antigenic drift during the Hong Kong period which resulted in many different variants. Since the advent of the Hong Kong virus subtype, a high excess mortality was observed only in the winter of 1969-70. In most of the other years there was a low excess mortality which coincided with the circulation of the influenza A viruses in the population. During the last winter 1978, influenza A viruses were not isolated before February. In February and March, the two distinct subtypes H3N2 and H1N1 circulated simultaneously. The influenza A(H1N1) virus attacked only children and young adults whereas the patients infected with influenza A(H3N2) virus ranged over all age groups.", "contents": "Epidemiology of influenza in Lower Saxony during the period 1968-1978 with particular emphasis on subtypes A(H3N2) and A(H1N1) in winter 1977-78. The influenza surveillance in Lower Saxony is based mainly on laboratory investigations, and especially those which involve the isolation of influenza viruses throughout the year. These investigations have provided information on the circulation of influenza viruses and of the antigenic drift during the Hong Kong period which resulted in many different variants. Since the advent of the Hong Kong virus subtype, a high excess mortality was observed only in the winter of 1969-70. In most of the other years there was a low excess mortality which coincided with the circulation of the influenza A viruses in the population. During the last winter 1978, influenza A viruses were not isolated before February. In February and March, the two distinct subtypes H3N2 and H1N1 circulated simultaneously. The influenza A(H1N1) virus attacked only children and young adults whereas the patients infected with influenza A(H3N2) virus ranged over all age groups.", "PMID": 440200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4797", "title": "Encapsulated strains of Bacteroides fragilis in clinical specimens.", "content": "Studies were made of the presence of capsules in 294 strains of the Bacteroides fragilis group of bacteria isolated from clinical infections and in 30 strains from the fecal flora using the Indian ink and ruthenium red staining methods. A total of 77% of the B. fragilis strains were encapsulated; higher figures were observed in isolates from blood and wound infections. Of the B. ovatus, B. distasonis, B. vulgatus, B. uniformis, and B. thetaiotaomicron isolates from clinical infections, 17% were encapsulated. The percentage of encapsulated Bacteroides strains isolated from feces was approximately the same as in the strains isolated from clinical infections.", "contents": "Encapsulated strains of Bacteroides fragilis in clinical specimens. Studies were made of the presence of capsules in 294 strains of the Bacteroides fragilis group of bacteria isolated from clinical infections and in 30 strains from the fecal flora using the Indian ink and ruthenium red staining methods. A total of 77% of the B. fragilis strains were encapsulated; higher figures were observed in isolates from blood and wound infections. Of the B. ovatus, B. distasonis, B. vulgatus, B. uniformis, and B. thetaiotaomicron isolates from clinical infections, 17% were encapsulated. The percentage of encapsulated Bacteroides strains isolated from feces was approximately the same as in the strains isolated from clinical infections.", "PMID": 440201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4798", "title": "Phagocytosis and intracellular killing of coagulase-negative staphylococci.", "content": "The phagocytosis and intracellular killing of different coagulase-negative staphylococcal species by polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes from one healthy donor were compared. The uptake of strains belonging to a given species varied from 60 to 80% with an average of 70% after 20 min incubation at 37 degrees C. Up to 95% of intracellular bacteria were killed after 10 min. There was no correlation between uptake capacity and species or biotype. The average rates of phagocytosis and killing strains whether isolated from urinary tract infections or from the skin were virtually the same.", "contents": "Phagocytosis and intracellular killing of coagulase-negative staphylococci. The phagocytosis and intracellular killing of different coagulase-negative staphylococcal species by polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes from one healthy donor were compared. The uptake of strains belonging to a given species varied from 60 to 80% with an average of 70% after 20 min incubation at 37 degrees C. Up to 95% of intracellular bacteria were killed after 10 min. There was no correlation between uptake capacity and species or biotype. The average rates of phagocytosis and killing strains whether isolated from urinary tract infections or from the skin were virtually the same.", "PMID": 440202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4799", "title": "The effect of methanol extraction residue of BCG on the cellular immune response in patients with malignant melanoma.", "content": "Twenty-one patients with malignant melanoma stage III and IV were treated by intradermal injections of MER--methanol extraction residue of Baccillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG). Twelve of the patients, all with active disease, received chemotherapy in addition. Tests of skin reactivity to recall antigens and in vitro lymphocyte transformation by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), purified protein derivative (PPD), Canadidine, and Varidase were performed in 19 of the patients before and after the MER therapy. The skin reactivity improved in 8 patients, 5 patients maintained their cutaneous competence, 3 remained incompetent, and in 3 other patients a decrease in reactivity occurred. Improvement or maintenance of cutaneous response was more common in stage III than in stage IV patients. The in vitro lymphocyte stimulation tests have shown that reactivity increased or remained at a high level in 9 of 11 patients in stage III. It dropped or remained low in 2 patients in respect to all antigens used in spite of repeated MER injections. In most patients with stage IV disease no improvement could be detected. MER seems to be a potent immunostimulator in patients in stage III. The side effects were tolerable in all patients and consisted of local reactions and influenza-like symptoms. In 4 patients treated with MER by intralesional injections, transient flattening of nodules occurred but no complete regression was observed.", "contents": "The effect of methanol extraction residue of BCG on the cellular immune response in patients with malignant melanoma. Twenty-one patients with malignant melanoma stage III and IV were treated by intradermal injections of MER--methanol extraction residue of Baccillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG). Twelve of the patients, all with active disease, received chemotherapy in addition. Tests of skin reactivity to recall antigens and in vitro lymphocyte transformation by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), purified protein derivative (PPD), Canadidine, and Varidase were performed in 19 of the patients before and after the MER therapy. The skin reactivity improved in 8 patients, 5 patients maintained their cutaneous competence, 3 remained incompetent, and in 3 other patients a decrease in reactivity occurred. Improvement or maintenance of cutaneous response was more common in stage III than in stage IV patients. The in vitro lymphocyte stimulation tests have shown that reactivity increased or remained at a high level in 9 of 11 patients in stage III. It dropped or remained low in 2 patients in respect to all antigens used in spite of repeated MER injections. In most patients with stage IV disease no improvement could be detected. MER seems to be a potent immunostimulator in patients in stage III. The side effects were tolerable in all patients and consisted of local reactions and influenza-like symptoms. In 4 patients treated with MER by intralesional injections, transient flattening of nodules occurred but no complete regression was observed.", "PMID": 440203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4800", "title": "Thirty-six-hour preoperative high-dose methotrexate infusion in patients with squamous carcinoma of the head and neck.", "content": "Twenty 36-hour infusions of high-dose methotrexate were given preoperatively to 10 patients with head and neck cancer. Plasma methotrexate levels of greater than 1 X 10(-5) M were maintained for 36 hours and declined with primary and secondary plasma half-lives of 1.7 and 9.2 hours following the end of the infusion. Toxicity of this infusion regimen was minimal (10% incidence of significant (WBC less than 2000/mm3) myelosuppression; no renal toxicity) and all patients underwent surgical resection within 3 weeks of therapy without obvious increase in operative complications. Four of ten patients responded to chemotherapy. Further comparison of the therapeutic efficacy of this prolonged preoperative infusion regimen with surgery alone or schedules employing conventional doses or 6-hour infusions of high-dose methotrexate appears warranted.", "contents": "Thirty-six-hour preoperative high-dose methotrexate infusion in patients with squamous carcinoma of the head and neck. Twenty 36-hour infusions of high-dose methotrexate were given preoperatively to 10 patients with head and neck cancer. Plasma methotrexate levels of greater than 1 X 10(-5) M were maintained for 36 hours and declined with primary and secondary plasma half-lives of 1.7 and 9.2 hours following the end of the infusion. Toxicity of this infusion regimen was minimal (10% incidence of significant (WBC less than 2000/mm3) myelosuppression; no renal toxicity) and all patients underwent surgical resection within 3 weeks of therapy without obvious increase in operative complications. Four of ten patients responded to chemotherapy. Further comparison of the therapeutic efficacy of this prolonged preoperative infusion regimen with surgery alone or schedules employing conventional doses or 6-hour infusions of high-dose methotrexate appears warranted.", "PMID": 440204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4801", "title": "Bone marrow biopsy in children: a study of 111 patients.", "content": "Closed trephine needle biopsy of the bone marrow has become an established procedure in the evaluation of many malignant and benign diseases in adults; however, its role in pediatric pathology has not yet been defined. In the period from February 1974 to April 1978 we have performed 164 such biopsies in 111 children under 15 years of age. A representative specimen has been obtained in over 80% of cases. This series included, in order of frequency, non-Hodgkin lymphomas, Hodgkin lymphomas, aplastic anemias, rhabdomyosarcomas, neuroblastomas, miscellaneous solid tumors, and single cases of histiocytosis X, malignant histiocytosis, sarcoidosis, malignant histiocytoma, and Castleman lymphoma of the hyaline-vascular type. Histology has been found superior to cytology in the detection of neuroblastoma invasion; the evaluation of the true cellularity in aplastic anemia, and the detection of granulomatous tissue in the only case of sarcoidosis. In other diseases histology and cytology gave similar information, except for the few cases of acute leukemia in partial relapse, which has been better defined in the aspirate smears than in the core specimen. Further evaluation of this technique in other patient series appears advisable.", "contents": "Bone marrow biopsy in children: a study of 111 patients. Closed trephine needle biopsy of the bone marrow has become an established procedure in the evaluation of many malignant and benign diseases in adults; however, its role in pediatric pathology has not yet been defined. In the period from February 1974 to April 1978 we have performed 164 such biopsies in 111 children under 15 years of age. A representative specimen has been obtained in over 80% of cases. This series included, in order of frequency, non-Hodgkin lymphomas, Hodgkin lymphomas, aplastic anemias, rhabdomyosarcomas, neuroblastomas, miscellaneous solid tumors, and single cases of histiocytosis X, malignant histiocytosis, sarcoidosis, malignant histiocytoma, and Castleman lymphoma of the hyaline-vascular type. Histology has been found superior to cytology in the detection of neuroblastoma invasion; the evaluation of the true cellularity in aplastic anemia, and the detection of granulomatous tissue in the only case of sarcoidosis. In other diseases histology and cytology gave similar information, except for the few cases of acute leukemia in partial relapse, which has been better defined in the aspirate smears than in the core specimen. Further evaluation of this technique in other patient series appears advisable.", "PMID": 440205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4802", "title": "Granulocyte transfusions in infected neutropenic children with malignancies.", "content": "Thirty-six febrile neutropenic episodes were treated by granulocyte transfusions in 33 children. Septicemia and mucous membrane ulcerations were most commonly associated with the fever. Infection cleared in 81% of the episodes, eight per cent ended in death from bacterial infections, 11% from nonbacterial infections or hemorrhage. The median number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes given was 1.1 X 10(10)/m2/transfusion. Two to twenty-eight (median 8.5) transfusions were given over 3--34 days (median 10.5). The source of cells (parental or random) and the method of collection did not seem to affect the outcome. None of the 23 patients whose marrow recovered during the transfusions died of bacterial infections. Infection cleared even without marrow recovery in 62% of the patients, but then only 25% lived for more than two months after clearing of sepsis. In a subgroup of patients with nonlymphoblastic leukemia on the same chemotherapy and antibiotic treatment protocol, 8/11 (73%) survived bacteremia when white cell support was available; only 2/11 (18%) of a historical control group survived when such support was not available. Granulocyte support appears to be a valuable tool in helping neutropenic patients overcome their infections or, at the very least, helping them survive long enough for normal marrow recovery to occur.", "contents": "Granulocyte transfusions in infected neutropenic children with malignancies. Thirty-six febrile neutropenic episodes were treated by granulocyte transfusions in 33 children. Septicemia and mucous membrane ulcerations were most commonly associated with the fever. Infection cleared in 81% of the episodes, eight per cent ended in death from bacterial infections, 11% from nonbacterial infections or hemorrhage. The median number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes given was 1.1 X 10(10)/m2/transfusion. Two to twenty-eight (median 8.5) transfusions were given over 3--34 days (median 10.5). The source of cells (parental or random) and the method of collection did not seem to affect the outcome. None of the 23 patients whose marrow recovered during the transfusions died of bacterial infections. Infection cleared even without marrow recovery in 62% of the patients, but then only 25% lived for more than two months after clearing of sepsis. In a subgroup of patients with nonlymphoblastic leukemia on the same chemotherapy and antibiotic treatment protocol, 8/11 (73%) survived bacteremia when white cell support was available; only 2/11 (18%) of a historical control group survived when such support was not available. Granulocyte support appears to be a valuable tool in helping neutropenic patients overcome their infections or, at the very least, helping them survive long enough for normal marrow recovery to occur.", "PMID": 440206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4803", "title": "Management of carcinoid syndrome.", "content": "Two patients who had severe carcinoid syndrome are presented. In one patient prednisone relieved symptoms for 20 months, and in the second patient chemotherapy appears to have precipitated fatal carcinoid crisis. Changes in mentation, increased frequency and intensity of flushing, and hypotension indicate increased risk of a chemotherapy induced carcinoid crisis. Since prednisone may produce relatively long control of carcinoid syndrome, it should be tried before chemotherapy in patients who have increased risk of carcinoid crisis. If chemotherapy is given, doses should be decreased by 50%, and patients should be followed closely.", "contents": "Management of carcinoid syndrome. Two patients who had severe carcinoid syndrome are presented. In one patient prednisone relieved symptoms for 20 months, and in the second patient chemotherapy appears to have precipitated fatal carcinoid crisis. Changes in mentation, increased frequency and intensity of flushing, and hypotension indicate increased risk of a chemotherapy induced carcinoid crisis. Since prednisone may produce relatively long control of carcinoid syndrome, it should be tried before chemotherapy in patients who have increased risk of carcinoid crisis. If chemotherapy is given, doses should be decreased by 50%, and patients should be followed closely.", "PMID": 440207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4804", "title": "On optimizing the xeromammographic image.", "content": "This work undertakes a detailed system-based analysis of the xeromammographic process starting from basic considerations. Both the edge enhancement and wide-recording latitude, the two principal characteristics of xeroradiography, are shown to bear an intimate relationship to the electric-field distribution. Criteria and methods are formulated for optimizing xeromammographic image quality and a procedure is developed for calculating the white gap. Densitometric curves are derived for both positive- and negative-mode xeroradiography and found to be in excellent agreement with experiment. The question of image linearity is examined carefully and a threshold value of the electrostatic contrast is established, which sets a natural criterion for the application of Fourier analysis. Furthermore, it is shown that, in xeromammography with its inherently low-contrast structures, an optimal exposure exists which optimizes simultaneously all low-contrast edges. This last finding, coupled with experimental results, suggest immediately the possibility of an automatic exposure termination in xeromammography. Beam hardening is also investigated and it is shown that increased filtration combined with a lower bias potential leads to substantial dose reduction without significant loss of image quality. The paper concludes with a discussion of scattered radiation and how it affects xeromammographic image quality.", "contents": "On optimizing the xeromammographic image. This work undertakes a detailed system-based analysis of the xeromammographic process starting from basic considerations. Both the edge enhancement and wide-recording latitude, the two principal characteristics of xeroradiography, are shown to bear an intimate relationship to the electric-field distribution. Criteria and methods are formulated for optimizing xeromammographic image quality and a procedure is developed for calculating the white gap. Densitometric curves are derived for both positive- and negative-mode xeroradiography and found to be in excellent agreement with experiment. The question of image linearity is examined carefully and a threshold value of the electrostatic contrast is established, which sets a natural criterion for the application of Fourier analysis. Furthermore, it is shown that, in xeromammography with its inherently low-contrast structures, an optimal exposure exists which optimizes simultaneously all low-contrast edges. This last finding, coupled with experimental results, suggest immediately the possibility of an automatic exposure termination in xeromammography. Beam hardening is also investigated and it is shown that increased filtration combined with a lower bias potential leads to substantial dose reduction without significant loss of image quality. The paper concludes with a discussion of scattered radiation and how it affects xeromammographic image quality.", "PMID": 440225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4805", "title": "Computer generation of dose distributions for a fast-neutron therapy beam.", "content": "A system has been developed for the computer generation of dose distributions for the MANTA-NRL fast-neutron radiotherapy beam. This program is based on scatter-air ratio (SAR) techniques. A method has been developed to unfold the effect of the neutron-beam profile in the derivation of SARs so that the SARs obtained are those which would be derived if the beam profile were flat. Tables of zero-area tissue-air ratios and SARs are presented. Comparisons of calculated and measured dose distributions are shown. An empirical correction to the usual SAR methods was required to obtain agreement between calculated and measured dose distributions at source-to-skin distances (SSD) which are different from the SSD at which the SAR are derived.", "contents": "Computer generation of dose distributions for a fast-neutron therapy beam. A system has been developed for the computer generation of dose distributions for the MANTA-NRL fast-neutron radiotherapy beam. This program is based on scatter-air ratio (SAR) techniques. A method has been developed to unfold the effect of the neutron-beam profile in the derivation of SARs so that the SARs obtained are those which would be derived if the beam profile were flat. Tables of zero-area tissue-air ratios and SARs are presented. Comparisons of calculated and measured dose distributions are shown. An empirical correction to the usual SAR methods was required to obtain agreement between calculated and measured dose distributions at source-to-skin distances (SSD) which are different from the SSD at which the SAR are derived.", "PMID": 440226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4806", "title": "Measurement of the effect of inhomogeneities and compensating bolus in clinical pion beams.", "content": "Measurement of the effects of Telfon and air inhomogeneities on the ionization distributions of clinical negative-pion beams have been made at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility. Inhomogeneity location and pion-beam energy vary the effect of multiple coulomb scattering on the dose distribution lying in the penumbra of the inhomogeneity. CH2 bolus adequately corrects for the effects of these inhomogeneities. Bolus misalignment less than 0.5 cm does not seem critical because of large multiple coulomb scattering of the pion beam. However, this and secondary particles emitted from pion stars prevent the pion beam from being precisely shaped with sharp edges, as demonstrated by measurements under a patient bolus.", "contents": "Measurement of the effect of inhomogeneities and compensating bolus in clinical pion beams. Measurement of the effects of Telfon and air inhomogeneities on the ionization distributions of clinical negative-pion beams have been made at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility. Inhomogeneity location and pion-beam energy vary the effect of multiple coulomb scattering on the dose distribution lying in the penumbra of the inhomogeneity. CH2 bolus adequately corrects for the effects of these inhomogeneities. Bolus misalignment less than 0.5 cm does not seem critical because of large multiple coulomb scattering of the pion beam. However, this and secondary particles emitted from pion stars prevent the pion beam from being precisely shaped with sharp edges, as demonstrated by measurements under a patient bolus.", "PMID": 440228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4807", "title": "High-LET pion dose contours under the LAMPF biomedical channel by plastic track detector scanning.", "content": "Cellulose-nitrate plastic track detectors have been tested as high spatial-resolution dosimeters at the Biomedical Channel of the Clinton P. Anderson Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory during pilot clinical trials with negative pi mesons (pions). Six plots of dose contours are presented. Reliable macrodosimetry with track detectors would in principle require detector calibration for the particular conditions of geometry and beam parameters in every case but it is interesting that absolute dose values, estimated from data taken with a quite different calibration geometry, were within 20% of agreement with dose values obtained by electronic dosimetry methods. The track detectors measure only the high linear energy transfer (LET) components produced by the pion beam; it is these components which are of special interest in the negative-pion therapy program. Plastic track detectors appear to have many favorable properties for pion dosimetry.", "contents": "High-LET pion dose contours under the LAMPF biomedical channel by plastic track detector scanning. Cellulose-nitrate plastic track detectors have been tested as high spatial-resolution dosimeters at the Biomedical Channel of the Clinton P. Anderson Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory during pilot clinical trials with negative pi mesons (pions). Six plots of dose contours are presented. Reliable macrodosimetry with track detectors would in principle require detector calibration for the particular conditions of geometry and beam parameters in every case but it is interesting that absolute dose values, estimated from data taken with a quite different calibration geometry, were within 20% of agreement with dose values obtained by electronic dosimetry methods. The track detectors measure only the high linear energy transfer (LET) components produced by the pion beam; it is these components which are of special interest in the negative-pion therapy program. Plastic track detectors appear to have many favorable properties for pion dosimetry.", "PMID": 440229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4808", "title": "Characterization of Clinac-18 electron-beam energy using a magnetic analysis method.", "content": "Clinac-18 electron-beam energies and spectral energy distributions were measured by a magnetic analysis method to verify results obtained by the standard range method. A comparison of these measurements with nominal energies quoted by the manufacturer indicates that electron-beam measured by both methods are in agreement with the manufacturer's specifications to +/- 0.6 MeV. Spectral energy distribution of the electron beam was measured to be approximately 1 MeV (FWHM) at all energies.", "contents": "Characterization of Clinac-18 electron-beam energy using a magnetic analysis method. Clinac-18 electron-beam energies and spectral energy distributions were measured by a magnetic analysis method to verify results obtained by the standard range method. A comparison of these measurements with nominal energies quoted by the manufacturer indicates that electron-beam measured by both methods are in agreement with the manufacturer's specifications to +/- 0.6 MeV. Spectral energy distribution of the electron beam was measured to be approximately 1 MeV (FWHM) at all energies.", "PMID": 440231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4809", "title": "Specific gamma-ray constant and exposure rate constant of 192Ir.", "content": "Calculated values of the 192Ir specific gamma-ray constant, Gamma range from the low value of 3.948 R cm2h-1mCi-1 recommended in NCRP No. 41 to a high of 4.89 R cm2h-1mCi-1. Measured values of Gamma range only from 4.85 to 5.0 Rcm2h-1mCi-1. Discrepancies in reported calculated values exist because the isotope decay scheme and other nuclear spectroscopy data pertinent to these calculations were not well known. Using the 28 gamma rays and relative intensities from the most recent Evaluated Nuclear Structure Data File (ENSDF), Gamma is calculated to be 4.62 +/- 0.05 Rcm2h-1mCi-1 and the exposure rate constant Gamma delta is 4.69 +/- 0.05 Rcm2h-1mCi-1. These new calculations are presented and previously reported values of Gamma and Gamma delta are reviewed.", "contents": "Specific gamma-ray constant and exposure rate constant of 192Ir. Calculated values of the 192Ir specific gamma-ray constant, Gamma range from the low value of 3.948 R cm2h-1mCi-1 recommended in NCRP No. 41 to a high of 4.89 R cm2h-1mCi-1. Measured values of Gamma range only from 4.85 to 5.0 Rcm2h-1mCi-1. Discrepancies in reported calculated values exist because the isotope decay scheme and other nuclear spectroscopy data pertinent to these calculations were not well known. Using the 28 gamma rays and relative intensities from the most recent Evaluated Nuclear Structure Data File (ENSDF), Gamma is calculated to be 4.62 +/- 0.05 Rcm2h-1mCi-1 and the exposure rate constant Gamma delta is 4.69 +/- 0.05 Rcm2h-1mCi-1. These new calculations are presented and previously reported values of Gamma and Gamma delta are reviewed.", "PMID": 440232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4810", "title": "An interesting form of high-energy gamma-ray--detector interaction and its effect on spectral peak centroid determination.", "content": "The pulse-height continuum produced in a radiation detector following the interaction of photons by pair-production is discussed. The event when one annihilation photon escapes from the detector without interaction while the other escapes after one Compton scattering interaction produces a characteristic component in the pulse-height spectrum. The significance of this component in influencing the accurate determination of the centroid of the double-escape peak is examined and shown to be negligibly small.", "contents": "An interesting form of high-energy gamma-ray--detector interaction and its effect on spectral peak centroid determination. The pulse-height continuum produced in a radiation detector following the interaction of photons by pair-production is discussed. The event when one annihilation photon escapes from the detector without interaction while the other escapes after one Compton scattering interaction produces a characteristic component in the pulse-height spectrum. The significance of this component in influencing the accurate determination of the centroid of the double-escape peak is examined and shown to be negligibly small.", "PMID": 440235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4811", "title": "Empirical equation for tissue-maximum ratios/scatter-maximum ratios for indirectly ionizing radiotherapy beams.", "content": "A six-parameter equation has been fitted to the tissue-maximum ratio/scatter maximum ration (TMR/SMR) tables for 60Co, 4-, 6-, and 10-MV photon beams as well as the 35 MeV d leads to Be neutron beam. The empirical equation has been shown to fit the 60Co tissue-air ratio/scatter-air ratio (TAR/SAR) data equally well. The TMR/SMR model was developed from a three-parameter equation designed to eliminate the graphical extrapolation of zero-field size TARs.", "contents": "Empirical equation for tissue-maximum ratios/scatter-maximum ratios for indirectly ionizing radiotherapy beams. A six-parameter equation has been fitted to the tissue-maximum ratio/scatter maximum ration (TMR/SMR) tables for 60Co, 4-, 6-, and 10-MV photon beams as well as the 35 MeV d leads to Be neutron beam. The empirical equation has been shown to fit the 60Co tissue-air ratio/scatter-air ratio (TAR/SAR) data equally well. The TMR/SMR model was developed from a three-parameter equation designed to eliminate the graphical extrapolation of zero-field size TARs.", "PMID": 440236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4812", "title": "Extraction of information from CT scans at different energies.", "content": "The image displayed in computed tomography is a scaled representation of attenuation coefficients within the patient's body. A number of authors have presented methods by which additional information (such as electron density, effective atomic number, and extrapolated attenuation coefficients for therapy applications) can be extracted from CT scans carried out at different energies. In the present paper, the dual-energy method described by Rutherford has been used to produce complete images of effective atomic number and electron density of a known phantom (the AAPM phantom) in order to investigate the usefulness of applying this method to current commercial scanners.", "contents": "Extraction of information from CT scans at different energies. The image displayed in computed tomography is a scaled representation of attenuation coefficients within the patient's body. A number of authors have presented methods by which additional information (such as electron density, effective atomic number, and extrapolated attenuation coefficients for therapy applications) can be extracted from CT scans carried out at different energies. In the present paper, the dual-energy method described by Rutherford has been used to produce complete images of effective atomic number and electron density of a known phantom (the AAPM phantom) in order to investigate the usefulness of applying this method to current commercial scanners.", "PMID": 440238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4813", "title": "Staphylococcal nuclease reviewed: a prototypic study in contemporary enzymology. III. Correlation of the three-dimensional structure with the mechanisms of enzymatic action.", "content": "This is the third in a series of four articles in which the chemical, enzymological and crystallographic work on Ribonucleate (deoxribonucleate)-3'-nucleotidohydrolase, EC 3.1.4.4 (staphylococcal nuclease, micrococcal nuclease) will be reviewed and correlated. This article describes the structure of the nuclease and of a nuclease-inhibitor complex as determined by x-ray crystallography. The crystal structures are correlated with some of the known chemical and enzymological properties of the enzyme, and the three areas combined to propose a mechanism of action.", "contents": "Staphylococcal nuclease reviewed: a prototypic study in contemporary enzymology. III. Correlation of the three-dimensional structure with the mechanisms of enzymatic action. This is the third in a series of four articles in which the chemical, enzymological and crystallographic work on Ribonucleate (deoxribonucleate)-3'-nucleotidohydrolase, EC 3.1.4.4 (staphylococcal nuclease, micrococcal nuclease) will be reviewed and correlated. This article describes the structure of the nuclease and of a nuclease-inhibitor complex as determined by x-ray crystallography. The crystal structures are correlated with some of the known chemical and enzymological properties of the enzyme, and the three areas combined to propose a mechanism of action.", "PMID": 440298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4814", "title": "Inhibitors of oxidative degradation of protein: gerontological implications.", "content": "Compounds were studied that inhibit the oxidative degradation of human serum albumin by peroxidase and the enzyme model, iron hydroxide. Differences between the two oxidants gave clues for the mechanism of inhibition. The inhibitors studied were inorganic anions, phosphate, sulfate, carbonate and molybdate; organic anions, decanoate and glycocholate; and the nonionic species, glycogen. Such inhibitors might be considered as adjuvants in senescence: by decreasing the rate of enzymic oxidation of essential body proteins, they would, in the course of aging, reduce some of the physiological changes occurring as a result of accumulation of degraded protein.", "contents": "Inhibitors of oxidative degradation of protein: gerontological implications. Compounds were studied that inhibit the oxidative degradation of human serum albumin by peroxidase and the enzyme model, iron hydroxide. Differences between the two oxidants gave clues for the mechanism of inhibition. The inhibitors studied were inorganic anions, phosphate, sulfate, carbonate and molybdate; organic anions, decanoate and glycocholate; and the nonionic species, glycogen. Such inhibitors might be considered as adjuvants in senescence: by decreasing the rate of enzymic oxidation of essential body proteins, they would, in the course of aging, reduce some of the physiological changes occurring as a result of accumulation of degraded protein.", "PMID": 440299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4815", "title": "Protein biosynthesis in isolated human scalp hair follicles.", "content": "The present study demonstrates that protein biosynthesis can be studied in single isolated human scalp hair follicles. The matrix and the sheath are the main regions where amino acids are built in. Incorporation is linear for at least five hours. The newly synthesized proteins can be separated into a water-soluble, a urea-soluble and a urea-insoluble fraction. Product analysis has been performed on the first two fractions, revealing different protein patterns.", "contents": "Protein biosynthesis in isolated human scalp hair follicles. The present study demonstrates that protein biosynthesis can be studied in single isolated human scalp hair follicles. The matrix and the sheath are the main regions where amino acids are built in. Incorporation is linear for at least five hours. The newly synthesized proteins can be separated into a water-soluble, a urea-soluble and a urea-insoluble fraction. Product analysis has been performed on the first two fractions, revealing different protein patterns.", "PMID": 440300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4816", "title": "Differences in the incorporation of [3H]-glucosamine into nascent polypeptide chains on free polysomes and two fractions of membrane-bound polysomes in mouse myeloma cells.", "content": "The incorporation of [3H]-glucosamine into polypeptides of three fractions of polysomes in MPC-11 cells was studied. After short term incubation greatest incorporation was observed in a fraction of membrane-bound polysomes, which after nitrogen cavitation of cells, remained bound to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) associated with the nucleus (fraction 2). Polypeptide chains on membrane-bound polysomes in the microsomal fraction (fraction 1) and free polysomes contained much less radioactivity. Since nascent polypeptide chains contained within membrane-bound polysomes of fraction 2 are glycosylated at an earlier stage than those in fraction 1 it is likely that this represents a difference in type of proteins synthesized in the respective fractions of ER.", "contents": "Differences in the incorporation of [3H]-glucosamine into nascent polypeptide chains on free polysomes and two fractions of membrane-bound polysomes in mouse myeloma cells. The incorporation of [3H]-glucosamine into polypeptides of three fractions of polysomes in MPC-11 cells was studied. After short term incubation greatest incorporation was observed in a fraction of membrane-bound polysomes, which after nitrogen cavitation of cells, remained bound to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) associated with the nucleus (fraction 2). Polypeptide chains on membrane-bound polysomes in the microsomal fraction (fraction 1) and free polysomes contained much less radioactivity. Since nascent polypeptide chains contained within membrane-bound polysomes of fraction 2 are glycosylated at an earlier stage than those in fraction 1 it is likely that this represents a difference in type of proteins synthesized in the respective fractions of ER.", "PMID": 440301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4817", "title": "Polyadenylated RNA in the lower eukaryote Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "Utilizing a method which quantitatively extracts high molecular weight RNA, including intact precursor as well as mature ribosomal RNAs, adenylated molecules have been isolated from nuclear- and cytoplasmic-enriched fractions of Physarum microplasmodia labeled with [3H]-uridine. Electrophoretic analysis of denatured adenylated RNA from the nuclear-enriched fraction indicated the presence of a population of large molecules not found in the cytoplasmic-enriched fraction.", "contents": "Polyadenylated RNA in the lower eukaryote Physarum polycephalum. Utilizing a method which quantitatively extracts high molecular weight RNA, including intact precursor as well as mature ribosomal RNAs, adenylated molecules have been isolated from nuclear- and cytoplasmic-enriched fractions of Physarum microplasmodia labeled with [3H]-uridine. Electrophoretic analysis of denatured adenylated RNA from the nuclear-enriched fraction indicated the presence of a population of large molecules not found in the cytoplasmic-enriched fraction.", "PMID": 440302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4818", "title": "Intracellular distribution of biotin-14COOH in rat liver.", "content": "Biotin clearance, its distribution in liver and liver fractions after intravenous administration of 5 muCi/100 g body weight (21.55 microgram) of biotin-14COOH in normal and biotin-deficient rats are reported. In the biotin deficient animal there is a more rapid disappearance of the labeled biotin from the blood stream. Biotin-14COOH incorporation in the liver of the deficient rat is more rapid and larger than the incorporation in normal rat liver. Almost all the biotin recovered from liver homogenate is found in the mitochondria and in the pH 5.2 cytosol fraction; whereas in the microsomes only a very small amount is present. The intracellular distribution of biotin is in agreement with its known metabolic roles.", "contents": "Intracellular distribution of biotin-14COOH in rat liver. Biotin clearance, its distribution in liver and liver fractions after intravenous administration of 5 muCi/100 g body weight (21.55 microgram) of biotin-14COOH in normal and biotin-deficient rats are reported. In the biotin deficient animal there is a more rapid disappearance of the labeled biotin from the blood stream. Biotin-14COOH incorporation in the liver of the deficient rat is more rapid and larger than the incorporation in normal rat liver. Almost all the biotin recovered from liver homogenate is found in the mitochondria and in the pH 5.2 cytosol fraction; whereas in the microsomes only a very small amount is present. The intracellular distribution of biotin is in agreement with its known metabolic roles.", "PMID": 440303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4819", "title": "[Several kinetic features of nitrogenase reactions].", "content": "The dependence of the nitrogen reduction rate on N2-concentration under high nitrogen pressures was measured. The reason for the sharp break of the Arrenius curves in nitrogenase reactions at 20 degrees C was examined. The influence of nitrogen on isotope effect catalyzed by nitrogenase was studied. The kinetic schemes that explain the peculiarities of the nitrogenase reactions were analyzed by the graph's theory. On the base of new conception of inhibitor-\"interceptor\" of electrons the literature data were discussed.", "contents": "[Several kinetic features of nitrogenase reactions]. The dependence of the nitrogen reduction rate on N2-concentration under high nitrogen pressures was measured. The reason for the sharp break of the Arrenius curves in nitrogenase reactions at 20 degrees C was examined. The influence of nitrogen on isotope effect catalyzed by nitrogenase was studied. The kinetic schemes that explain the peculiarities of the nitrogenase reactions were analyzed by the graph's theory. On the base of new conception of inhibitor-\"interceptor\" of electrons the literature data were discussed.", "PMID": 440307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4820", "title": "[Graph method of analyzing the stationary kinetics of polyenzyme systems].", "content": "Methods based on the graphical representation of relations between metabolites concentrations were worked out for the description and analysis of the steady-state kinetics of the multienzyme systems. The properties of graphics characterizing various steady-state regimens were investigated. Relations relevant to the analysis of regulatory phenomena were derived for the concentration of non-adjacent metabolites. Rules are presented for the kinetical description of multienzyme systems posessing external inputs and outputs. Certain branchings occuring in multienzyme systems were considered. The developed methods allow generalization concerning multisubstrate multiproduct reactions as well as systems containing regulatory enzymes with non-michaelian kinetics. It is suggested that the generalized methods may be helpful for the analysis of the metabolic regulation.", "contents": "[Graph method of analyzing the stationary kinetics of polyenzyme systems]. Methods based on the graphical representation of relations between metabolites concentrations were worked out for the description and analysis of the steady-state kinetics of the multienzyme systems. The properties of graphics characterizing various steady-state regimens were investigated. Relations relevant to the analysis of regulatory phenomena were derived for the concentration of non-adjacent metabolites. Rules are presented for the kinetical description of multienzyme systems posessing external inputs and outputs. Certain branchings occuring in multienzyme systems were considered. The developed methods allow generalization concerning multisubstrate multiproduct reactions as well as systems containing regulatory enzymes with non-michaelian kinetics. It is suggested that the generalized methods may be helpful for the analysis of the metabolic regulation.", "PMID": 440305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4821", "title": "[Physical mapping of the genome of phage Cd].", "content": "The effect of 7 specific endonucleases EcoRI, BamHI, BglII, SalI HindIII, XhoI, SmaI, on the genome of the phage Sd was studied. The molecular weight of the genome was estimated as 45.10(6). BamHI, EcoRI, HindIII, BglII, SmaI have altogether 15 sites of restriction SalI and XhoI do not hydrolyse the phage DNA. Fragmentation of the phage DNA in conditions of partial hydrolysis and simultaneous action of several enzymes have allowed to draw a physical man to the phage Sd DNA is more resistent to the action of restriction enzymes than DNAs from other phages. The mean size of Sd DNA fragments exceeds the statistical value almost by one order of magnitude.", "contents": "[Physical mapping of the genome of phage Cd]. The effect of 7 specific endonucleases EcoRI, BamHI, BglII, SalI HindIII, XhoI, SmaI, on the genome of the phage Sd was studied. The molecular weight of the genome was estimated as 45.10(6). BamHI, EcoRI, HindIII, BglII, SmaI have altogether 15 sites of restriction SalI and XhoI do not hydrolyse the phage DNA. Fragmentation of the phage DNA in conditions of partial hydrolysis and simultaneous action of several enzymes have allowed to draw a physical man to the phage Sd DNA is more resistent to the action of restriction enzymes than DNAs from other phages. The mean size of Sd DNA fragments exceeds the statistical value almost by one order of magnitude.", "PMID": 440304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4822", "title": "[Complementary interaction of multialkylated polyribonucleotides].", "content": "Effect of modification of polyinosinic acid (poly(I)) by alkylating agent 4-N,N-bis (beta-chloroethyl) aminobenzaldedehyde on its complementary interaction with polycytidylic acid (poly(C)) was investigated. The data demonstrate that when no more than 10% of inosine residues are modified poly(I) still retains its capacity to form complementary complex with poly (C) this capacity disappears after modification of 11--13% of inosine residues. However when more than 3,5% of inosine residues were modified the poly(I). .poly(C) complex became sensitive to RNAse T1 and its Tm decreases, indicating that single-stranded regions (loops) are formed under these conditions. The data suggest that modified polynucleotides carrying alkylating groups on their surface can be applied for the directed action on the complementary regions of the genome.", "contents": "[Complementary interaction of multialkylated polyribonucleotides]. Effect of modification of polyinosinic acid (poly(I)) by alkylating agent 4-N,N-bis (beta-chloroethyl) aminobenzaldedehyde on its complementary interaction with polycytidylic acid (poly(C)) was investigated. The data demonstrate that when no more than 10% of inosine residues are modified poly(I) still retains its capacity to form complementary complex with poly (C) this capacity disappears after modification of 11--13% of inosine residues. However when more than 3,5% of inosine residues were modified the poly(I). .poly(C) complex became sensitive to RNAse T1 and its Tm decreases, indicating that single-stranded regions (loops) are formed under these conditions. The data suggest that modified polynucleotides carrying alkylating groups on their surface can be applied for the directed action on the complementary regions of the genome.", "PMID": 440306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4823", "title": "[Nuclear ribonucleoproteins containing pro-mRNA. XIV. Structural study using ethidium and fluorescamine].", "content": "Nuclear 30S RNP particles were studied by means of fluorescence techniques. It's shown that fluorescamin interacts with NH2-groups of protein molecule. As a result, covalent fluorescent label is formed. Quantum yield (rho), fluorescence spectra, lifetime of excited state (tau) and polarization of fluorescamin complexes with 30S particles were studied. Excitation spectra have their maximum at 395 nm, and fluorescence spectrum at 480 nm. These figures correspond to spectra of fluorescamin complexes with NH2-groups of lysine. Mean quantum yield (rho = 0.27) and lifetime of excited state of fluorescence (tau = 7.8 nsec) were measured. It's shown that fluorescamin forms two types of fluorescent complexes in 30S particles. These complexes differ only by their rho(rho1 = 0.11, rho2 = 0.30) and rho(rho1 = 3.6 nsec, rho2 = 10.0 nsec) by 2.7 times. Migration radius between fluorescamin bound to protein and ethydium bromide adsorbed on double-stranded regions of pre-mRNA in RNP-particles was measured. It's equal to 32 A. Adsorbtion isotherms of ethydium bromide were measured by fluorescence in 0.1 and 0.4 M NaCl. Data obtained showed that 6% of pre-mRNA in 30S particles bound the dye as a strong complex, i. e. this part of pre-mRNA is double-stranded. RNase treatment of RNP had no effect on this value. But the increase of NaCl concentration up to 0.4 M caused the dissociation of protein subunits to some extent followed by appearance of up to 40% free NH2-groups interacting with fluorescamin. Measuring of energy migration from fluorescamin to ethydium bromide showed that double-stranded pre-mRNA regions strictly bound to protein sticked out from RNP particle at a distance of about 27 A. The increase of NaCl concentration up to 0.4 M leads to disruption of this strict bond of double-stranded regions with protein. As a result, these regions of pre-mRNA become labile and move away from the RNP particle at more than 30 A. According to theoretical calculations, there is about 1--2 pre-mRNA hairpins (18--9 base pairs respectively) per one 30S particle.", "contents": "[Nuclear ribonucleoproteins containing pro-mRNA. XIV. Structural study using ethidium and fluorescamine]. Nuclear 30S RNP particles were studied by means of fluorescence techniques. It's shown that fluorescamin interacts with NH2-groups of protein molecule. As a result, covalent fluorescent label is formed. Quantum yield (rho), fluorescence spectra, lifetime of excited state (tau) and polarization of fluorescamin complexes with 30S particles were studied. Excitation spectra have their maximum at 395 nm, and fluorescence spectrum at 480 nm. These figures correspond to spectra of fluorescamin complexes with NH2-groups of lysine. Mean quantum yield (rho = 0.27) and lifetime of excited state of fluorescence (tau = 7.8 nsec) were measured. It's shown that fluorescamin forms two types of fluorescent complexes in 30S particles. These complexes differ only by their rho(rho1 = 0.11, rho2 = 0.30) and rho(rho1 = 3.6 nsec, rho2 = 10.0 nsec) by 2.7 times. Migration radius between fluorescamin bound to protein and ethydium bromide adsorbed on double-stranded regions of pre-mRNA in RNP-particles was measured. It's equal to 32 A. Adsorbtion isotherms of ethydium bromide were measured by fluorescence in 0.1 and 0.4 M NaCl. Data obtained showed that 6% of pre-mRNA in 30S particles bound the dye as a strong complex, i. e. this part of pre-mRNA is double-stranded. RNase treatment of RNP had no effect on this value. But the increase of NaCl concentration up to 0.4 M caused the dissociation of protein subunits to some extent followed by appearance of up to 40% free NH2-groups interacting with fluorescamin. Measuring of energy migration from fluorescamin to ethydium bromide showed that double-stranded pre-mRNA regions strictly bound to protein sticked out from RNP particle at a distance of about 27 A. The increase of NaCl concentration up to 0.4 M leads to disruption of this strict bond of double-stranded regions with protein. As a result, these regions of pre-mRNA become labile and move away from the RNP particle at more than 30 A. According to theoretical calculations, there is about 1--2 pre-mRNA hairpins (18--9 base pairs respectively) per one 30S particle.", "PMID": 440309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4824", "title": "[Study of the complex of myoglobin with nicotinic acid by the method magnetic circular dichroism. Nature of the double hemochromogen].", "content": "The complex formed by myoglobin and nicotinic acid exhibits unusual spectral properties. Instead of the usual two bands in the visible region the complex shows four bands assigned to the so called twin hemochromogen. Some attempts were previously made to clarify the nature of the twin hemochromogen, but the interpretation given was somewhat doubtful. We have shown that the combination of two spectral methods, namely magnetic circular dichroism and absorption spectra, give evidence that unusual absorption spectrum of the myoglobin complex with nicotinic acid is not attributed neither to the presence of the other hemochromogen nor to the soft vibrations but is due to the strong splitting of the pure electronic Q00 band into two Qox and Q0y bands. The splitting is caused by the distortion of heme structure by its asymmetrical environment.", "contents": "[Study of the complex of myoglobin with nicotinic acid by the method magnetic circular dichroism. Nature of the double hemochromogen]. The complex formed by myoglobin and nicotinic acid exhibits unusual spectral properties. Instead of the usual two bands in the visible region the complex shows four bands assigned to the so called twin hemochromogen. Some attempts were previously made to clarify the nature of the twin hemochromogen, but the interpretation given was somewhat doubtful. We have shown that the combination of two spectral methods, namely magnetic circular dichroism and absorption spectra, give evidence that unusual absorption spectrum of the myoglobin complex with nicotinic acid is not attributed neither to the presence of the other hemochromogen nor to the soft vibrations but is due to the strong splitting of the pure electronic Q00 band into two Qox and Q0y bands. The splitting is caused by the distortion of heme structure by its asymmetrical environment.", "PMID": 440310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4825", "title": "The distribution of spontaneous chromosome aberrations in BHK21/C13 fibroblasts.", "content": "Previous investigations of spontaneous aberrations in mammalian cells have been carried out on large heterogeneous samples of individuals, each of whom had had a different exposure to exogenous clastogens. In the present analysis using Syrian Hamster cells, a large number of metaphases were analysed from one sample of control cells. In this way all cells were exposed to the same doses of any unknown clastogens. The overall distribution of spontaneous breaks was found to be nonrandom. Breaks involved in different types of aberration had a nonrandom distribution, which was specific for each type. (e.g. terminal deletion and rearrangement).", "contents": "The distribution of spontaneous chromosome aberrations in BHK21/C13 fibroblasts. Previous investigations of spontaneous aberrations in mammalian cells have been carried out on large heterogeneous samples of individuals, each of whom had had a different exposure to exogenous clastogens. In the present analysis using Syrian Hamster cells, a large number of metaphases were analysed from one sample of control cells. In this way all cells were exposed to the same doses of any unknown clastogens. The overall distribution of spontaneous breaks was found to be nonrandom. Breaks involved in different types of aberration had a nonrandom distribution, which was specific for each type. (e.g. terminal deletion and rearrangement).", "PMID": 440319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4826", "title": "[Reaction between the protein of gene 32 of phage T4 with DNA. Comparison of the properties of native protein and the product of its limited hydrolysis].", "content": "Interaction between DNA and limited hydrolysate of T4 gene 32 protein has been studied. This limited hydrolysate is obtained when 8000 dalton segment of native 32 protein is removed proteolitically, its molecular weight being 26,000 dalton. It is shown that the melting temperatures of DNA as well as that of the synthetic homopolymer poly[d(AT)] complexed with this modified protein are more than 60 degrees lower than that of pure DNA and poly[d(AT]. The secondary structure defects in DNA promote its unwinding by the modified 32 protein. As follows from the analysis of the melting curves of the modified 32 protein -- DNA complex, this protein cooperatively binds to denatured DNA. The binding constants and cooperativity parameters are found to be equal to 10(8)--10(10) M-1 AND 10(3) respectively. It is shown that the gene 32 protein in the same environmental conditions does not destabilized native DNA and poly[d(AT)].", "contents": "[Reaction between the protein of gene 32 of phage T4 with DNA. Comparison of the properties of native protein and the product of its limited hydrolysis]. Interaction between DNA and limited hydrolysate of T4 gene 32 protein has been studied. This limited hydrolysate is obtained when 8000 dalton segment of native 32 protein is removed proteolitically, its molecular weight being 26,000 dalton. It is shown that the melting temperatures of DNA as well as that of the synthetic homopolymer poly[d(AT)] complexed with this modified protein are more than 60 degrees lower than that of pure DNA and poly[d(AT]. The secondary structure defects in DNA promote its unwinding by the modified 32 protein. As follows from the analysis of the melting curves of the modified 32 protein -- DNA complex, this protein cooperatively binds to denatured DNA. The binding constants and cooperativity parameters are found to be equal to 10(8)--10(10) M-1 AND 10(3) respectively. It is shown that the gene 32 protein in the same environmental conditions does not destabilized native DNA and poly[d(AT)].", "PMID": 440308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4827", "title": "Studies of X-ray-induced chromosome aberrations in cells of the black-tailed wallaby. I. Non-random exchange in peripheral blood cells irradiated in Go.", "content": "The distribution of exchanges between individual chromosome arms in mitotic peripheral blood cells following X-irradiation in Go has been measured. It was found that, although all arms exchanged with each other, there were small but significant departures from the frequencies expected on the basis of random breakage and exchange. It is suggested that non-randomness may reflect the non-uniform state of condensation of chromatin in Go lymphocytes.", "contents": "Studies of X-ray-induced chromosome aberrations in cells of the black-tailed wallaby. I. Non-random exchange in peripheral blood cells irradiated in Go. The distribution of exchanges between individual chromosome arms in mitotic peripheral blood cells following X-irradiation in Go has been measured. It was found that, although all arms exchanged with each other, there were small but significant departures from the frequencies expected on the basis of random breakage and exchange. It is suggested that non-randomness may reflect the non-uniform state of condensation of chromatin in Go lymphocytes.", "PMID": 440320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4828", "title": "Procarbazine-induced specific-locus mutations in male mice.", "content": "Procarbazine is used in drug-combination treatment of Hodgkin's disease. The specific locus method was used to test and confirm the ability of procarbazine to induce gene mutations in pre- and post-meiotic germ cells of male mice. The lowest dose of procarbazine that significantly increased the mutation frequency in As spermatogonia over the control frequency was 400 mg/kg (P = 0.003). The corresponding dose for the post-spermatogonial germ-cell stages was 600 mg/kg (P = 0.009). The dose--response was linear for the point estimates of the mutation frequencies after treatment of As spermatogonia with 0, 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg. The point estimate of the mutation frequency at the 800 mg/kg level was one-third of that expected from a linear extrapolation. Variation in mutation rates among the 7 loci between the lowest (a locus) and the highest (p locus) was 12-fold. Only 24% of procarbazine-induced specific locus mutations in As spermatogonia were lethal in the homozygous condition. From the mutation spectra and the viability tests, it is concluded that procarbazine-induced mutations may be mainly due to base-pair changes. Procarbazine-induced specific-locus mutations fulfilled the criteria for the estimation of the doubling dose, the dose necessary to induce as many mutations as occur spontaneously. The doubling dose of procarbazine in As spermatogonia of mice was 114 mg/kg. The therapeutic dose for procarbazine is about 215 mg/kg. If man and mouse were equally sensitive, this dose would induce 1.9 times as many mutations as arise spontaneously. From the incidence of patients with Hodgkin's disease (1 : 42 000) the calculated population dose of procarbazine is 5.12 micrograms/kg. Assuming equal sensitivity between the sexes we can calculate, for an estimated number of 30 000 genes, the induction of about 22 mutations per million children due to procarbazine treatment. The same number of induced mutations can be calculated if the risk of patients is used for the estimation of the genetic hazard.", "contents": "Procarbazine-induced specific-locus mutations in male mice. Procarbazine is used in drug-combination treatment of Hodgkin's disease. The specific locus method was used to test and confirm the ability of procarbazine to induce gene mutations in pre- and post-meiotic germ cells of male mice. The lowest dose of procarbazine that significantly increased the mutation frequency in As spermatogonia over the control frequency was 400 mg/kg (P = 0.003). The corresponding dose for the post-spermatogonial germ-cell stages was 600 mg/kg (P = 0.009). The dose--response was linear for the point estimates of the mutation frequencies after treatment of As spermatogonia with 0, 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg. The point estimate of the mutation frequency at the 800 mg/kg level was one-third of that expected from a linear extrapolation. Variation in mutation rates among the 7 loci between the lowest (a locus) and the highest (p locus) was 12-fold. Only 24% of procarbazine-induced specific locus mutations in As spermatogonia were lethal in the homozygous condition. From the mutation spectra and the viability tests, it is concluded that procarbazine-induced mutations may be mainly due to base-pair changes. Procarbazine-induced specific-locus mutations fulfilled the criteria for the estimation of the doubling dose, the dose necessary to induce as many mutations as occur spontaneously. The doubling dose of procarbazine in As spermatogonia of mice was 114 mg/kg. The therapeutic dose for procarbazine is about 215 mg/kg. If man and mouse were equally sensitive, this dose would induce 1.9 times as many mutations as arise spontaneously. From the incidence of patients with Hodgkin's disease (1 : 42 000) the calculated population dose of procarbazine is 5.12 micrograms/kg. Assuming equal sensitivity between the sexes we can calculate, for an estimated number of 30 000 genes, the induction of about 22 mutations per million children due to procarbazine treatment. The same number of induced mutations can be calculated if the risk of patients is used for the estimation of the genetic hazard.", "PMID": 440322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4829", "title": "Increased frequencies of aberrant sperm as indicators of mutagenic damage in mice.", "content": "We have tested the effects of TEM in 3 strains of mice using the sperm morphology assay. In addition, we have made an attempt to evaluate this test system with respect to experimental design, statistical problems and possible interlaboratory differences. Treatment with TEM results in significant increases in the percent of abnormally shaped sperm. These increases are readily detectable in sperm treated as spermatocytes and spermatogonial stages. Our data indicate possible problems associated with inter-laboratory variation in slide analysis. We have found that despite the introduction of such sources of variation, our data were consistent with respect to the effects of TEM. Another area of concern in the sperm morphology test is the presence of \"outlier\" animals. In our study, such animals comprised 4% of the total number of animals considered. Statistical analysis of the slides from these animals have shown that this problem can be dealt with and that when recognized as such, \"outliers\" do not effect the outcome of the sperm morphology assay.", "contents": "Increased frequencies of aberrant sperm as indicators of mutagenic damage in mice. We have tested the effects of TEM in 3 strains of mice using the sperm morphology assay. In addition, we have made an attempt to evaluate this test system with respect to experimental design, statistical problems and possible interlaboratory differences. Treatment with TEM results in significant increases in the percent of abnormally shaped sperm. These increases are readily detectable in sperm treated as spermatocytes and spermatogonial stages. Our data indicate possible problems associated with inter-laboratory variation in slide analysis. We have found that despite the introduction of such sources of variation, our data were consistent with respect to the effects of TEM. Another area of concern in the sperm morphology test is the presence of \"outlier\" animals. In our study, such animals comprised 4% of the total number of animals considered. Statistical analysis of the slides from these animals have shown that this problem can be dealt with and that when recognized as such, \"outliers\" do not effect the outcome of the sperm morphology assay.", "PMID": 440324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4830", "title": "Cis-platinum(II) diamine dichloride causes mutation, transformation, and sister-chromatid exchanges in cultured mammalian cells.", "content": "The anti-tumor agent cis-platinum(II) diamine dichloride caused dose-dependent toxicity in V79 Chinese hamster cells and in secondary Syrian hamster embryo cells. Chromosome aberrations were induced and positive dose--response relationships were observed for induction of sister-chromatid exchanges and 6-thioguanine-resistant mutations in V79 cells and morphologic transformation of secondary Syrian hamster embryo cells. The findings suggest that this chemical is a potential human carcinogen.", "contents": "Cis-platinum(II) diamine dichloride causes mutation, transformation, and sister-chromatid exchanges in cultured mammalian cells. The anti-tumor agent cis-platinum(II) diamine dichloride caused dose-dependent toxicity in V79 Chinese hamster cells and in secondary Syrian hamster embryo cells. Chromosome aberrations were induced and positive dose--response relationships were observed for induction of sister-chromatid exchanges and 6-thioguanine-resistant mutations in V79 cells and morphologic transformation of secondary Syrian hamster embryo cells. The findings suggest that this chemical is a potential human carcinogen.", "PMID": 440327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4831", "title": "Private cost containment.", "content": "Physicians should recognize that a more competitive health-care market would provide the best defense against government regulation. Aside from group-practice health-maintenance organizations, the cost-containment steps that might be taken in such a market are not well understood. In particular, little attention has been paid to how private health insurers might redefine their coverage to limit the cost-increasing effects of third-party payment. Insurer-provider agreements negotiated in a competitive environment would seem to be especially promising. Competing insurance plans would be variously organized and operated according to provider and consumer preferences. Traditional doctor-patient relations as well as fee-for-service payment could be preserved. The antitrust laws, while curbing concerted effort to prevent change, should assure that physicians are not exploited by dominant buyers. Lucrative opportunities already exist for enterprising and efficient providers.", "contents": "Private cost containment. Physicians should recognize that a more competitive health-care market would provide the best defense against government regulation. Aside from group-practice health-maintenance organizations, the cost-containment steps that might be taken in such a market are not well understood. In particular, little attention has been paid to how private health insurers might redefine their coverage to limit the cost-increasing effects of third-party payment. Insurer-provider agreements negotiated in a competitive environment would seem to be especially promising. Competing insurance plans would be variously organized and operated according to provider and consumer preferences. Traditional doctor-patient relations as well as fee-for-service payment could be preserved. The antitrust laws, while curbing concerted effort to prevent change, should assure that physicians are not exploited by dominant buyers. Lucrative opportunities already exist for enterprising and efficient providers.", "PMID": 440332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4832", "title": "Frequency and clinical description of high-cost patients in 17 acute-care hospitals.", "content": "To assess the potential impact of national \"catastrophic\" health insurance on the medical-care system, the frequency and clinical characteristics of high-cost patients were surveyed at 17 acute-care hospitals in the San Francisco Bay Area. The percentage of patients whose yearly hospital charges exceeded $4000 in 1976 ranged from 4 at a community hospital to 24 at a referral hospital. Hospital costs charged to these patients ranged from 20 to 68 per cent of total billings, with the highest percentages generally occurring at large referral hospitals. Forty-seven per cent of adult high-cost patients had chronic medical conditions, and only one in six suffered from an acute medical \"catastrophe.\" In addition, more than 13 per cent of high-cost patients died in the hospital. National catastrophic health insurance is likely to pay for much chronic illness and terminal care and divert resources toward acute-care hospitals.", "contents": "Frequency and clinical description of high-cost patients in 17 acute-care hospitals. To assess the potential impact of national \"catastrophic\" health insurance on the medical-care system, the frequency and clinical characteristics of high-cost patients were surveyed at 17 acute-care hospitals in the San Francisco Bay Area. The percentage of patients whose yearly hospital charges exceeded $4000 in 1976 ranged from 4 at a community hospital to 24 at a referral hospital. Hospital costs charged to these patients ranged from 20 to 68 per cent of total billings, with the highest percentages generally occurring at large referral hospitals. Forty-seven per cent of adult high-cost patients had chronic medical conditions, and only one in six suffered from an acute medical \"catastrophe.\" In addition, more than 13 per cent of high-cost patients died in the hospital. National catastrophic health insurance is likely to pay for much chronic illness and terminal care and divert resources toward acute-care hospitals.", "PMID": 440333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4833", "title": "Analysis of probability as an aid in the clinical diagnosis of coronary-artery disease.", "content": "The diagnosis of coronary-artery disease has become increasingly complex. Many different results, obtained from tests with substantial imperfections, must be integrated into a diagnostic conclusion about the probability of disease in a given patient. To approach this problem in a practical manner, we reviewed the literature to estimate the pretest likelihood of disease (defined by age, sex and symptoms) and the sensitivity and specificity of four diagnostic tests: stress electrocardiography, cardiokymography, thallium scintigraphy and cardiac fluoroscopy. With this information, test results can be analyzed by use of Bayes' theorem of conditional probability. This approach has several advantages. It pools the diagnostic experience of many physicians ans integrates fundamental pretest clinical descriptors with many varying test results to summarize reproducibly and meaningfully the probability of angiographic coronary-artery disease. This approach also aids, but does not replace, the physician's judgment and may assit in decisions on cost effectiveness of tests.", "contents": "Analysis of probability as an aid in the clinical diagnosis of coronary-artery disease. The diagnosis of coronary-artery disease has become increasingly complex. Many different results, obtained from tests with substantial imperfections, must be integrated into a diagnostic conclusion about the probability of disease in a given patient. To approach this problem in a practical manner, we reviewed the literature to estimate the pretest likelihood of disease (defined by age, sex and symptoms) and the sensitivity and specificity of four diagnostic tests: stress electrocardiography, cardiokymography, thallium scintigraphy and cardiac fluoroscopy. With this information, test results can be analyzed by use of Bayes' theorem of conditional probability. This approach has several advantages. It pools the diagnostic experience of many physicians ans integrates fundamental pretest clinical descriptors with many varying test results to summarize reproducibly and meaningfully the probability of angiographic coronary-artery disease. This approach also aids, but does not replace, the physician's judgment and may assit in decisions on cost effectiveness of tests.", "PMID": 440357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4834", "title": "Cost containment through risk-sharing by primary-care physicians.", "content": "A new type of independent practice association has been organized to encourage primary-care physicians in private practice to become coordinators and financial managers for all medical care. Each patient chooses one internist, family or general physician or pediatrician and must be referred by that physician for all specialized care. The primary-care physician authorizes payment from his own account for all care provided to his patients. He shares any dificit or surplus remaining at the end of the year. After four years of operation, United Healthcare has 610 primary-care physicians treating 23,000 patients. Total hospital use during 1978 and 293 bed-days per 1000 patients, as compared with 479 for Blue Cross. The hospital-admission rate per 1000 was 88, as compared with 101 for Blue Cross. Average lengths of stay were 3.3 and 4.7 dyas, respectively. This plan represents another means to control costs in the private medical marketplace.", "contents": "Cost containment through risk-sharing by primary-care physicians. A new type of independent practice association has been organized to encourage primary-care physicians in private practice to become coordinators and financial managers for all medical care. Each patient chooses one internist, family or general physician or pediatrician and must be referred by that physician for all specialized care. The primary-care physician authorizes payment from his own account for all care provided to his patients. He shares any dificit or surplus remaining at the end of the year. After four years of operation, United Healthcare has 610 primary-care physicians treating 23,000 patients. Total hospital use during 1978 and 293 bed-days per 1000 patients, as compared with 479 for Blue Cross. The hospital-admission rate per 1000 was 88, as compared with 101 for Blue Cross. Average lengths of stay were 3.3 and 4.7 dyas, respectively. This plan represents another means to control costs in the private medical marketplace.", "PMID": 440358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4835", "title": "The contribution of specialists to the delivery of primary care.", "content": "Despite increased numbers of medical-school graduates and opportunities for \"primary-care\" specialty training since the mid-1960's, many believe that the shortage of physicians delivering generalist care will continue through the 1980's. Missing, however, is solid information on the role of physician specialists in providing such care. Two national studies have shown that one of every five Americans now receives continuing general medical care from a specialist physician. Our study suggests that, despite the current shortage of generalist-physician services, continuing specialist participation in primary care will lead to sufficient generalist medical services by the mid-1980's. Whether specialist participation is the most appropriate or cost-effective way to improve access to such care is unclear. However, until this question is resolved, more governmental regulation of graduate medical education may be unwise. Offering all physicains, regardless of specialty, more primary-care experience during residency training might better deal with this aspect of American medical practice.", "contents": "The contribution of specialists to the delivery of primary care. Despite increased numbers of medical-school graduates and opportunities for \"primary-care\" specialty training since the mid-1960's, many believe that the shortage of physicians delivering generalist care will continue through the 1980's. Missing, however, is solid information on the role of physician specialists in providing such care. Two national studies have shown that one of every five Americans now receives continuing general medical care from a specialist physician. Our study suggests that, despite the current shortage of generalist-physician services, continuing specialist participation in primary care will lead to sufficient generalist medical services by the mid-1980's. Whether specialist participation is the most appropriate or cost-effective way to improve access to such care is unclear. However, until this question is resolved, more governmental regulation of graduate medical education may be unwise. Offering all physicains, regardless of specialty, more primary-care experience during residency training might better deal with this aspect of American medical practice.", "PMID": 440359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4836", "title": "United States citizens in foreign medical schools and the future supply of physicians.", "content": "Between 1973 and 1977, the number of United States citizens in foreign medical schools increased from 12,000 to 15,000, with Mexico and Italy responsible for training 55 per cent of these students. If all these students can successfully meet the requirements for entry into graduate training in the United States, their numbers, combined with the increasing size of entering classes in American medical schools, may exceed the number of positions presently available for first-year graduate training. Serious problems in the quality of education received in several new foreign medical schools must be addressed if these students are to enter the American medical system.", "contents": "United States citizens in foreign medical schools and the future supply of physicians. Between 1973 and 1977, the number of United States citizens in foreign medical schools increased from 12,000 to 15,000, with Mexico and Italy responsible for training 55 per cent of these students. If all these students can successfully meet the requirements for entry into graduate training in the United States, their numbers, combined with the increasing size of entering classes in American medical schools, may exceed the number of positions presently available for first-year graduate training. Serious problems in the quality of education received in several new foreign medical schools must be addressed if these students are to enter the American medical system.", "PMID": 440390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4837", "title": "Isolation and partial characterization of immunologically reactive fractions from chitinase digested cell wall of Trichophyton mentagrophytes.", "content": "Cell wall preparations of Trichophyton mentagrophytes were digested with chitinase following which various fractions were isolated by ultrafiltration and Sephadex gel filtration. All fractions isolated contained both polysaccharide and peptide material. A correlation was seen between those fractions capable of eliciting immediate and delayed skin reactions in sensitized guinea pigs and those capable of stimulating the in vitro proliferation of lymphocytes taken from sensitized guinea pigs. These immunologically active fractions also developed precipitin lines with antiserum taken from sensitized animals. A low molecular weight fraction was found to be completely reactive immunologically (UM2(a)), and appeared to have a molecular weight in the range of 2,000--4,000 as assessed by ultrafiltration and gel filtration studies.", "contents": "Isolation and partial characterization of immunologically reactive fractions from chitinase digested cell wall of Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Cell wall preparations of Trichophyton mentagrophytes were digested with chitinase following which various fractions were isolated by ultrafiltration and Sephadex gel filtration. All fractions isolated contained both polysaccharide and peptide material. A correlation was seen between those fractions capable of eliciting immediate and delayed skin reactions in sensitized guinea pigs and those capable of stimulating the in vitro proliferation of lymphocytes taken from sensitized guinea pigs. These immunologically active fractions also developed precipitin lines with antiserum taken from sensitized animals. A low molecular weight fraction was found to be completely reactive immunologically (UM2(a)), and appeared to have a molecular weight in the range of 2,000--4,000 as assessed by ultrafiltration and gel filtration studies.", "PMID": 440399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4838", "title": "Characterization of immunologically active peptides from the cell wall of T. mentagrophytes.", "content": "A low molecular weight fraction from chitinase digested cell walls of T. mentagrophytes containing both polysaccharide and peptide moieties was found to have immunological reactivity at both the cellular and humoral level. This fraction (UM2(a)) was further degraded by treatment with either a combination of pronase and carboxypeptidase A or with trypsin. Peptides were separated from the carbohydrate-rich fraction by ultrafiltration. The carbohydrate-rich fraction retained the ability to induce both immediate and delayed skin reactions in sensitized guinea pigs and to stimulate the proliferation of sensitized lymphocytes in vitro. The peptide moieties retained reactivity in that they caused delayed reactions and lymphocyte proliferation but were unable to induce immediate or Arthus reactions in sensitized animals. Tryptic peptides from UM2(a) were purified by ion exchange chromatography. A high proportion of these peptides demonstrated immunological activity at both the cellular and humoral level since they were capable of inducing delayed reactions and/or lymphocyte transformation, as well as being capable of blocking the complement fixation reaction between UM2(a) and specific antiserum.", "contents": "Characterization of immunologically active peptides from the cell wall of T. mentagrophytes. A low molecular weight fraction from chitinase digested cell walls of T. mentagrophytes containing both polysaccharide and peptide moieties was found to have immunological reactivity at both the cellular and humoral level. This fraction (UM2(a)) was further degraded by treatment with either a combination of pronase and carboxypeptidase A or with trypsin. Peptides were separated from the carbohydrate-rich fraction by ultrafiltration. The carbohydrate-rich fraction retained the ability to induce both immediate and delayed skin reactions in sensitized guinea pigs and to stimulate the proliferation of sensitized lymphocytes in vitro. The peptide moieties retained reactivity in that they caused delayed reactions and lymphocyte proliferation but were unable to induce immediate or Arthus reactions in sensitized animals. Tryptic peptides from UM2(a) were purified by ion exchange chromatography. A high proportion of these peptides demonstrated immunological activity at both the cellular and humoral level since they were capable of inducing delayed reactions and/or lymphocyte transformation, as well as being capable of blocking the complement fixation reaction between UM2(a) and specific antiserum.", "PMID": 440400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4839", "title": "Studies on a species of Monosporascus isolated from Triticum.", "content": "A species of Monosporascus isolated from darkened stem bases of Triticum in Libya is compared with the two known species of the genus: M. cannonballus and M. eutypoides. The isolate resembles M. cannonballus in the type of ostiole developed but M. eutypoides in having mainly two-spored asci. It differs from M. eutypoides in having a reduced ostiole but this may be a response to growth in culture as this species has only previously been reported from infected tissues. In addition to having mainly two-spored and not one-spored asci, the isolate differs from M. cannonballus in that the spores pass through a stage in which a reticulum is visible when viewed by SEM. SEM photographs of the spores of both M. cannonballus and M. eutypoides, to which species this fungus is tentatively referred, are included. On germination the ascospores of the Triticum isolate produce 5--10 germ tubes. A growth curve for cultures is provided showing that the optimum temperature for growth is in the range 25--35 degrees C. Subcultures held at 48 degrees and 55 degrees C for five days failed to grow when transferred to 30 degrees C but ones held at 45 degrees for the same period grew normally when the temperature was reduced to 30 degrees C. The appearance of the colonies at different temperatures is also described.", "contents": "Studies on a species of Monosporascus isolated from Triticum. A species of Monosporascus isolated from darkened stem bases of Triticum in Libya is compared with the two known species of the genus: M. cannonballus and M. eutypoides. The isolate resembles M. cannonballus in the type of ostiole developed but M. eutypoides in having mainly two-spored asci. It differs from M. eutypoides in having a reduced ostiole but this may be a response to growth in culture as this species has only previously been reported from infected tissues. In addition to having mainly two-spored and not one-spored asci, the isolate differs from M. cannonballus in that the spores pass through a stage in which a reticulum is visible when viewed by SEM. SEM photographs of the spores of both M. cannonballus and M. eutypoides, to which species this fungus is tentatively referred, are included. On germination the ascospores of the Triticum isolate produce 5--10 germ tubes. A growth curve for cultures is provided showing that the optimum temperature for growth is in the range 25--35 degrees C. Subcultures held at 48 degrees and 55 degrees C for five days failed to grow when transferred to 30 degrees C but ones held at 45 degrees for the same period grew normally when the temperature was reduced to 30 degrees C. The appearance of the colonies at different temperatures is also described.", "PMID": 440401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4840", "title": "Conservation of reference strains of Fusarium in pure culture.", "content": "More than 300 reference strains representing 60 species and varieties of Fusarium cultures named according to different taxonomic systems are currently maintained at the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC). They have been preserved by freeze-drying and by freezing and subsequent storage in liquid nitrogen (-196 degrees C) to insure their viability without contamination, variation, mutation, or deterioration. The materials and procedures used at the ATCC for the acquisition, accessioning, cataloguing, preservation and distribution are described. Longevity storage data for the strains available for distribution are presented and discussed.", "contents": "Conservation of reference strains of Fusarium in pure culture. More than 300 reference strains representing 60 species and varieties of Fusarium cultures named according to different taxonomic systems are currently maintained at the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC). They have been preserved by freeze-drying and by freezing and subsequent storage in liquid nitrogen (-196 degrees C) to insure their viability without contamination, variation, mutation, or deterioration. The materials and procedures used at the ATCC for the acquisition, accessioning, cataloguing, preservation and distribution are described. Longevity storage data for the strains available for distribution are presented and discussed.", "PMID": 440402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4841", "title": "Inhibitory effects of condiments and herbal drugs on the growth and toxin production of toxigenic fungi.", "content": "The effects of thirteen kinds of powdered herbal drugs and seven kinds of commercial dry condiments on the growth and toxin production of Aspergillus parasiticus, A. flavus, A. ochraceus, and A. versicolor were observed by introducing these substances into culture media for mycotoxin production. Of the twenty samples tested, cinnamon bark completely inhibited the fungal growth, while the others only inhibited the toxin production. The inhibitors were easily extracted from the samples with solvents such as hot water, chloroform, or ethanol. The extracts from coptis, philodendron bark, mustard, green tea leaves, and zanthoxylum completely inhibited the aflatoxin production of A. parasiticus, however, they had little or no inhibitory effect against A. flavus.", "contents": "Inhibitory effects of condiments and herbal drugs on the growth and toxin production of toxigenic fungi. The effects of thirteen kinds of powdered herbal drugs and seven kinds of commercial dry condiments on the growth and toxin production of Aspergillus parasiticus, A. flavus, A. ochraceus, and A. versicolor were observed by introducing these substances into culture media for mycotoxin production. Of the twenty samples tested, cinnamon bark completely inhibited the fungal growth, while the others only inhibited the toxin production. The inhibitors were easily extracted from the samples with solvents such as hot water, chloroform, or ethanol. The extracts from coptis, philodendron bark, mustard, green tea leaves, and zanthoxylum completely inhibited the aflatoxin production of A. parasiticus, however, they had little or no inhibitory effect against A. flavus.", "PMID": 440403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4842", "title": "Effect of peanut tannins on percent seed colonization and in vitro growth by Aspergillus parasiticus.", "content": "The relationship between tannin content of mature, intact, cured peanut seed and percent seed colonization by Aspergillus parasiticus was examined. Tannin content in 9 cultivars, 7 of which were grown in both Tifton, Georgia and Puerto Rico, was significantly correlated with percent seed colonization. For data expressed as mg tannin/g intact seed and mg tannin/g seed coat, correlation coefficients with percent colonization were 0.74 and 0.76, respectively. Seed coat tannin, methanol-extracted, water-soluble material from peanut seed coats, was tested in vitro for effects on growth of A. parasiticus. As concentrations of tannins were increased to 7.5%, inhibition of fungal growth increased linearly to 88%; a concentration of 20% produced over 96% inhibition.", "contents": "Effect of peanut tannins on percent seed colonization and in vitro growth by Aspergillus parasiticus. The relationship between tannin content of mature, intact, cured peanut seed and percent seed colonization by Aspergillus parasiticus was examined. Tannin content in 9 cultivars, 7 of which were grown in both Tifton, Georgia and Puerto Rico, was significantly correlated with percent seed colonization. For data expressed as mg tannin/g intact seed and mg tannin/g seed coat, correlation coefficients with percent colonization were 0.74 and 0.76, respectively. Seed coat tannin, methanol-extracted, water-soluble material from peanut seed coats, was tested in vitro for effects on growth of A. parasiticus. As concentrations of tannins were increased to 7.5%, inhibition of fungal growth increased linearly to 88%; a concentration of 20% produced over 96% inhibition.", "PMID": 440404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4843", "title": "Toxigenic fungi isolated from Roquefort cheese.", "content": "To evaluate the potential for mycotoxin production by fungi contaminating blue-veined cheese, as well as by the ripening fungus, Penicillium roqueforti, the fungal flora of six of local and imported brands was determined. A total of 19 fungi were isolated from the six brands tested. Fourteen of the isolates were toxic to chicken embryos. The toxigenic fungi produced the following mycotoxins: Aspergillus fumigatus, kojic acid; A. versicolor, sterigmatocystin; Penicillium roqueforti, penicillic acid and unidentified toxic metabolites.", "contents": "Toxigenic fungi isolated from Roquefort cheese. To evaluate the potential for mycotoxin production by fungi contaminating blue-veined cheese, as well as by the ripening fungus, Penicillium roqueforti, the fungal flora of six of local and imported brands was determined. A total of 19 fungi were isolated from the six brands tested. Fourteen of the isolates were toxic to chicken embryos. The toxigenic fungi produced the following mycotoxins: Aspergillus fumigatus, kojic acid; A. versicolor, sterigmatocystin; Penicillium roqueforti, penicillic acid and unidentified toxic metabolites.", "PMID": 440405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4844", "title": "Candida infected ascites caused by perforated ulcer.", "content": "A case is presented of ascites infected with candida in a cirrhotic patient. Candida infection of the ascitic fluid and candidemia were found 24 hours after perforation of a gastric ulcer. Combined intravenous therapy with Amphotericin B and 5-Fluorocytosine eradicated the infection within two weeks. The need for comprehensive therapeutic approach in the debilitated patient prone to fungal and bacterial infection is emphasized.", "contents": "Candida infected ascites caused by perforated ulcer. A case is presented of ascites infected with candida in a cirrhotic patient. Candida infection of the ascitic fluid and candidemia were found 24 hours after perforation of a gastric ulcer. Combined intravenous therapy with Amphotericin B and 5-Fluorocytosine eradicated the infection within two weeks. The need for comprehensive therapeutic approach in the debilitated patient prone to fungal and bacterial infection is emphasized.", "PMID": 440406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4845", "title": "The ovalbumin gene region: common features in the organisation of three genes expressed in chicken oviduct under hormonal control.", "content": "Two large DNA fragments overlapping the chicken ovalbumin gene have been isolated by molecular cloning. Analysis of these fragments provided a map of a 46,000-base pair region of the chicken genome. This region contains the complete ovalbumin gene (including its mRNA leader-coding sequence) and at least two other genes of unknown function. All three genes are orientated in the same direction and their expression in chicken oviduct is under hormonal control. The three genes share some sequence homologies, suggesting that duplications have occurred in the ovalbumin gene region in the course of evolution.", "contents": "The ovalbumin gene region: common features in the organisation of three genes expressed in chicken oviduct under hormonal control. Two large DNA fragments overlapping the chicken ovalbumin gene have been isolated by molecular cloning. Analysis of these fragments provided a map of a 46,000-base pair region of the chicken genome. This region contains the complete ovalbumin gene (including its mRNA leader-coding sequence) and at least two other genes of unknown function. All three genes are orientated in the same direction and their expression in chicken oviduct is under hormonal control. The three genes share some sequence homologies, suggesting that duplications have occurred in the ovalbumin gene region in the course of evolution.", "PMID": 440416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4846", "title": "Histone genes are clustered with a 15-kilobase repeat in the chicken genome.", "content": "Histone mRNA isolated from 5-day-old chick embryos has been used as a template for complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis. The resultant cDNA, after removal of sequences complementary to rRNA, was used to detect histone genes in adult chicken genomal DNA. Hybridisation data indicate that the histone genes are repeated about 10-fold in the chicken genome. Restriction endonuclease analysis reveals some sequence heterogeneity in these genes. However, the results show that chicken histone genes are clustered with a basic repeat unit of 15 kilobases.", "contents": "Histone genes are clustered with a 15-kilobase repeat in the chicken genome. Histone mRNA isolated from 5-day-old chick embryos has been used as a template for complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis. The resultant cDNA, after removal of sequences complementary to rRNA, was used to detect histone genes in adult chicken genomal DNA. Hybridisation data indicate that the histone genes are repeated about 10-fold in the chicken genome. Restriction endonuclease analysis reveals some sequence heterogeneity in these genes. However, the results show that chicken histone genes are clustered with a basic repeat unit of 15 kilobases.", "PMID": 440417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4847", "title": "A mutation altering the function of a carbohydrate binding protein blocks cell-cell cohesion in developing Dictyostelium discoideum.", "content": "In Dictyostelium discoideum, carbohydrate binding proteins (CBPs) or lectins have been implicated in the molecular basis of cellular cohesion. To determine the role of these CBPs, we have attempted to isolate structural gene mutants in which the CBPs have a defective affinity for carbohydrate ligands. We now report the isolation of a spontaneous, cross-reacting material (CRM) mutant which is non-cohesive and fails to develop. The mutant seems to have a defect in the structural gene for one of the two developmentally regulated carbohydrate binding proteins (CBP-26), which renders it unable to bind to galactose-containing ligands. The fact that wild-type cells interact with the mutant and carry it through development strongly supports a model of cell-cell interaction in which cohesion is mediated by complementary molecules.", "contents": "A mutation altering the function of a carbohydrate binding protein blocks cell-cell cohesion in developing Dictyostelium discoideum. In Dictyostelium discoideum, carbohydrate binding proteins (CBPs) or lectins have been implicated in the molecular basis of cellular cohesion. To determine the role of these CBPs, we have attempted to isolate structural gene mutants in which the CBPs have a defective affinity for carbohydrate ligands. We now report the isolation of a spontaneous, cross-reacting material (CRM) mutant which is non-cohesive and fails to develop. The mutant seems to have a defect in the structural gene for one of the two developmentally regulated carbohydrate binding proteins (CBP-26), which renders it unable to bind to galactose-containing ligands. The fact that wild-type cells interact with the mutant and carry it through development strongly supports a model of cell-cell interaction in which cohesion is mediated by complementary molecules.", "PMID": 440430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4848", "title": "[Studies in biotechnology at the Federal Technical College, Zurich].", "content": "A new Curriculum, termed Technical Biology (or Biotechnology) has been instituted at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Switzerland. Biotechnology is regarded not as a Natural Science, but as an Engineering Science. On a solid basis of two years of mathematics, physics, chemistry, physical chemistry, and biology, courses are offered in technical microbiology and process and control engineering.", "contents": "[Studies in biotechnology at the Federal Technical College, Zurich]. A new Curriculum, termed Technical Biology (or Biotechnology) has been instituted at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Switzerland. Biotechnology is regarded not as a Natural Science, but as an Engineering Science. On a solid basis of two years of mathematics, physics, chemistry, physical chemistry, and biology, courses are offered in technical microbiology and process and control engineering.", "PMID": 440440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4849", "title": "[Concepts for the synthesis of new biologically active substances].", "content": "Three concepts for the synthesis of biologically active compounds are discussed and illustrated by examples. In addition to the accidental finding of biologically active compounds, synthesized purely for chemical reasons, analogy models can serve as guidelines for synthesis. In the latter, naturally occurring or synthetic biologically active molecules are modified to optimize or alter the biological properties. A third approach for the synthesis of active substances is oriented according to the side of action. Models from biochemistry and molecular biology serve as a basis for synthesis planning.", "contents": "[Concepts for the synthesis of new biologically active substances]. Three concepts for the synthesis of biologically active compounds are discussed and illustrated by examples. In addition to the accidental finding of biologically active compounds, synthesized purely for chemical reasons, analogy models can serve as guidelines for synthesis. In the latter, naturally occurring or synthetic biologically active molecules are modified to optimize or alter the biological properties. A third approach for the synthesis of active substances is oriented according to the side of action. Models from biochemistry and molecular biology serve as a basis for synthesis planning.", "PMID": 440441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4850", "title": "[Computer and chemical synthesis].", "content": "Numerous computer programs have gained entry into drug research; some of them are already used as a matter of routine, whereas others are still being tested. The special advantages of the use of computer programs are shown for the two fields \"computer-assisted synthesis planning\" and \"quantitative structure-activity relationships\". Several aspects of cooperation between man and computer are briefly discussed.", "contents": "[Computer and chemical synthesis]. Numerous computer programs have gained entry into drug research; some of them are already used as a matter of routine, whereas others are still being tested. The special advantages of the use of computer programs are shown for the two fields \"computer-assisted synthesis planning\" and \"quantitative structure-activity relationships\". Several aspects of cooperation between man and computer are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 440442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4851", "title": "[Cochleotopic organization of the primary auditory region of the cerebral cortex in cats].", "content": "The cochleotopic organization of the primary auditory cortex (AI) was investigated by means of focal potentials evoked by direct electrical stimulation of the cochlea in cats under nembutal anesthesia. Two foci of maximal activity (dorsal and ventral) which were more prominent in the rostral and medial parts of AI appeared in 85% of animals in response to local stimulation of different cochlear regions. The analysis of the projectional maps shows that different cochlear regions are represented in AI nonproportionally. The basal region is projected to a larger cortical area than both the middle and apical ones. Significant variability was found for cochlear representation in the auditory cortex of different cats.", "contents": "[Cochleotopic organization of the primary auditory region of the cerebral cortex in cats]. The cochleotopic organization of the primary auditory cortex (AI) was investigated by means of focal potentials evoked by direct electrical stimulation of the cochlea in cats under nembutal anesthesia. Two foci of maximal activity (dorsal and ventral) which were more prominent in the rostral and medial parts of AI appeared in 85% of animals in response to local stimulation of different cochlear regions. The analysis of the projectional maps shows that different cochlear regions are represented in AI nonproportionally. The basal region is projected to a larger cortical area than both the middle and apical ones. Significant variability was found for cochlear representation in the auditory cortex of different cats.", "PMID": 440484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4852", "title": "[Heterogeneity of a neuron population with complex receptive fields in the visual cortex of costs].", "content": "Visual responses of the striate complex cells to stimuli orientation, direction and velocity of movement were studied in awakening, unanesthetized cats. \"Complex\" cells were divided into four groups according to the response characteristics which were obtained using a stationary slit, moving light spot and moving oriented stimulus. The first group units response characteristics suggest the presence of the orientation selectivity mechanism in their receptive field organization, the fourth group--the direction selectivity mechanisms, the second and third groups--the presence of both mechanisms. It is supposed that there are two separate mechanisms for coding the orientation and direction of the stimulus movement in the neuronal structures of the visual cortex.", "contents": "[Heterogeneity of a neuron population with complex receptive fields in the visual cortex of costs]. Visual responses of the striate complex cells to stimuli orientation, direction and velocity of movement were studied in awakening, unanesthetized cats. \"Complex\" cells were divided into four groups according to the response characteristics which were obtained using a stationary slit, moving light spot and moving oriented stimulus. The first group units response characteristics suggest the presence of the orientation selectivity mechanism in their receptive field organization, the fourth group--the direction selectivity mechanisms, the second and third groups--the presence of both mechanisms. It is supposed that there are two separate mechanisms for coding the orientation and direction of the stimulus movement in the neuronal structures of the visual cortex.", "PMID": 440483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4853", "title": "[Horseradish peroxidase labeled neurons of the ventrobasal complex of the thalamus projecting to the somatosensory zone I of the cat cerebral cortex].", "content": "The morphology and topography of the neurons in the ventro-basal complex (VB) projecting to the somatic sensory cortex (SI) were studied by the method of the retrograde axonic transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Different types of HRP-labelled cells were found in this structure. The concentration of labelled cells was the greatest in the central part of the VB. The most peculiar feature in the distribution of HRP-positive neurons was their organization in two large populations in the dorsal and ventral portions of the VB. A comparison with the somatotopic map of the VB revealed that the central region of this complex is the area of the representation of the forelimb and the head. Our morphological results confirm the neurophysiological conception about the organization of the thalamo-cortical input on the \"point-to-point\" projection principles.", "contents": "[Horseradish peroxidase labeled neurons of the ventrobasal complex of the thalamus projecting to the somatosensory zone I of the cat cerebral cortex]. The morphology and topography of the neurons in the ventro-basal complex (VB) projecting to the somatic sensory cortex (SI) were studied by the method of the retrograde axonic transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Different types of HRP-labelled cells were found in this structure. The concentration of labelled cells was the greatest in the central part of the VB. The most peculiar feature in the distribution of HRP-positive neurons was their organization in two large populations in the dorsal and ventral portions of the VB. A comparison with the somatotopic map of the VB revealed that the central region of this complex is the area of the representation of the forelimb and the head. Our morphological results confirm the neurophysiological conception about the organization of the thalamo-cortical input on the \"point-to-point\" projection principles.", "PMID": 440485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4854", "title": "[Late prolonged discharges in the motor nerves of the hindlimbs and their relationship to locomotor rhythmicity in thalamically immobilized cats].", "content": "Effects of flexor reflex afferents stimulation were investigated on high decerebrated curarized cats. Stimulation of ipsilateral flexor reflex afferents evoked late long-lasting discharges in flexor nerves. Contralateral flexor reflex afferents stimulation evoked late discharges both in extensor and flexor nerves. Transition from late discharges to rhythmic discharges was observed. Early segmental reflexes were tonically depressed in thalamic in comparison with acute spinal cats. A similar tonic depression of segmental reflexes took place in acute spinal cats after DOPA injection. Segmental reflexes were distinctly modulated during late and rhythmic discharges. On the basis of the data available possible central mechanisms of the observed changes of segmental reflexes are discussed.", "contents": "[Late prolonged discharges in the motor nerves of the hindlimbs and their relationship to locomotor rhythmicity in thalamically immobilized cats]. Effects of flexor reflex afferents stimulation were investigated on high decerebrated curarized cats. Stimulation of ipsilateral flexor reflex afferents evoked late long-lasting discharges in flexor nerves. Contralateral flexor reflex afferents stimulation evoked late discharges both in extensor and flexor nerves. Transition from late discharges to rhythmic discharges was observed. Early segmental reflexes were tonically depressed in thalamic in comparison with acute spinal cats. A similar tonic depression of segmental reflexes took place in acute spinal cats after DOPA injection. Segmental reflexes were distinctly modulated during late and rhythmic discharges. On the basis of the data available possible central mechanisms of the observed changes of segmental reflexes are discussed.", "PMID": 440486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4855", "title": "[Structure of the theoretical distributions of postsynaptic potential amplitudes upon quantum analysis].", "content": "It is suggested that formulas commonly used to calculate theoretical amplitude distributions of postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) for their further quantum analysis lead to the overestimation of the quantum value variations (sigma nu) and neglect the variations of a noise level (sigma 2n). A proper formula taking into account both parameters in proposed. The necessity to consider sigma 2n is shown by statistical analysis of \"individual\" and \"minimal\" PSPs recorded in the neurons of the central ganglion of the snail and hippocampal neurons of the rabbit. Taking into account sigma 2n resulted in a better agreement between theoretical and experimental distributions and provided an indirect method for sigma nu estimation.", "contents": "[Structure of the theoretical distributions of postsynaptic potential amplitudes upon quantum analysis]. It is suggested that formulas commonly used to calculate theoretical amplitude distributions of postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) for their further quantum analysis lead to the overestimation of the quantum value variations (sigma nu) and neglect the variations of a noise level (sigma 2n). A proper formula taking into account both parameters in proposed. The necessity to consider sigma 2n is shown by statistical analysis of \"individual\" and \"minimal\" PSPs recorded in the neurons of the central ganglion of the snail and hippocampal neurons of the rabbit. Taking into account sigma 2n resulted in a better agreement between theoretical and experimental distributions and provided an indirect method for sigma nu estimation.", "PMID": 440487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4856", "title": "[Electrical responses recorded from the round window of the cat cochlea].", "content": "The parameters of the cochlear round window responses to stimulation by acoustic clicks of different intensity, polarity and frequency were studied in experiments on anesthetized cats. The intensity function reflecting the dependence of the amplitude of potential change upon the level of stimulating click included two parts differing in slope. The dependence of the electric responses on the stimulus intensity and frequency was also studied. A specific form of the reaction was found in some cases. The study of all these parameters gives us some reasons to make a conclusion on the function of the auditory nerve.", "contents": "[Electrical responses recorded from the round window of the cat cochlea]. The parameters of the cochlear round window responses to stimulation by acoustic clicks of different intensity, polarity and frequency were studied in experiments on anesthetized cats. The intensity function reflecting the dependence of the amplitude of potential change upon the level of stimulating click included two parts differing in slope. The dependence of the electric responses on the stimulus intensity and frequency was also studied. A specific form of the reaction was found in some cases. The study of all these parameters gives us some reasons to make a conclusion on the function of the auditory nerve.", "PMID": 440488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4857", "title": "[Responses of ampullae of Lorenzini in a uniform electric field].", "content": "Analysis of discharges of a single electroreceptor in a uniform electric field resulted in the conclusion that there is a linear relationship between the potential difference on a single ampulla and relative changes in the spike frequency. The topography of the ampullar groups can be described as a system composed by electric gratings. It is supposed that the maximum of the directional diagram of a grating corresponds to the area of a maximum sensitivity of an ampular group.", "contents": "[Responses of ampullae of Lorenzini in a uniform electric field]. Analysis of discharges of a single electroreceptor in a uniform electric field resulted in the conclusion that there is a linear relationship between the potential difference on a single ampulla and relative changes in the spike frequency. The topography of the ampullar groups can be described as a system composed by electric gratings. It is supposed that the maximum of the directional diagram of a grating corresponds to the area of a maximum sensitivity of an ampular group.", "PMID": 440489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4858", "title": "[Cooperative effect of calcium ions in freeing a mediator from the neuromuscular synapses of large and small muscle fibers of frog sartorius muscle].", "content": "The dependence of a amplitude and quantum content (m) of the end plate potentials on the external calcium concentration was studied in experiments on the frog sartorius amplitude of the miniature end plate potentials were found. The data obtained suggest that the number of calcium ions taking part in the release of each transmitter quantum may be different.", "contents": "[Cooperative effect of calcium ions in freeing a mediator from the neuromuscular synapses of large and small muscle fibers of frog sartorius muscle]. The dependence of a amplitude and quantum content (m) of the end plate potentials on the external calcium concentration was studied in experiments on the frog sartorius amplitude of the miniature end plate potentials were found. The data obtained suggest that the number of calcium ions taking part in the release of each transmitter quantum may be different.", "PMID": 440490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4859", "title": "[Synapses with myelinated and unmyelinated preterminal portions of axons in cat cerebral cortex].", "content": "The electron microscopic study of the cat cerebral cortex revealed two kinds of preterminal axonal regions with synaptic boutons at the end: nonmyelinated and myelinated. In the first case their diameter was about 90 nm; in the second case it was considerably greater; the myelin could reach the bouton. The possible physiological meaning of these structural features is discussed.", "contents": "[Synapses with myelinated and unmyelinated preterminal portions of axons in cat cerebral cortex]. The electron microscopic study of the cat cerebral cortex revealed two kinds of preterminal axonal regions with synaptic boutons at the end: nonmyelinated and myelinated. In the first case their diameter was about 90 nm; in the second case it was considerably greater; the myelin could reach the bouton. The possible physiological meaning of these structural features is discussed.", "PMID": 440492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4860", "title": "[Feedback inhibition in microsegments of the visual cortex].", "content": "Interaction between 3-4 neighbouring neurons in the visual cortex of awakening cats was examined using a cross-correlation analysis. In some microsystems neurons revealed a tendency towards synchronized activity indicating a shared excitatory input. In other microsystems asymmetrical interaction was observed: neurons with larger spike amplitudes exhibited excitatory effect on neurons with smaller spike amplitudes (latent period about 5 ms) and neurons with small spike amplitudes inhibited neurons with large spike amplitudes (latent period 1-8 ms, duration of inhibition 30-200 ms). Suggestions were made about the existence of recurrent inhibition and inhibitory interneurons in microsystems of the visual cortex.", "contents": "[Feedback inhibition in microsegments of the visual cortex]. Interaction between 3-4 neighbouring neurons in the visual cortex of awakening cats was examined using a cross-correlation analysis. In some microsystems neurons revealed a tendency towards synchronized activity indicating a shared excitatory input. In other microsystems asymmetrical interaction was observed: neurons with larger spike amplitudes exhibited excitatory effect on neurons with smaller spike amplitudes (latent period about 5 ms) and neurons with small spike amplitudes inhibited neurons with large spike amplitudes (latent period 1-8 ms, duration of inhibition 30-200 ms). Suggestions were made about the existence of recurrent inhibition and inhibitory interneurons in microsystems of the visual cortex.", "PMID": 440493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4861", "title": "[Interaction between auditory and trigeminal afferent volleys in the dorsal cochlear nucleus of rats].", "content": "In chloralose anaesthetized rats preliminary electrical stimulation of the second branch of the trigeminal nerve diminished the amplitude of all component of the evoked potential produced by click, when the interval between conditioning and testing stimuli was up to 40 ms. Only late negative-positive component of the evoked potential was depressed when the interval between the stimuli was increased. The conclusion is made that the afferent inflow to the dorsal cochlear nucleus is controlled by peripheral mechanisms changing the sensory input and by central descending inhibitory influences on the nucleus.", "contents": "[Interaction between auditory and trigeminal afferent volleys in the dorsal cochlear nucleus of rats]. In chloralose anaesthetized rats preliminary electrical stimulation of the second branch of the trigeminal nerve diminished the amplitude of all component of the evoked potential produced by click, when the interval between conditioning and testing stimuli was up to 40 ms. Only late negative-positive component of the evoked potential was depressed when the interval between the stimuli was increased. The conclusion is made that the afferent inflow to the dorsal cochlear nucleus is controlled by peripheral mechanisms changing the sensory input and by central descending inhibitory influences on the nucleus.", "PMID": 440494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4862", "title": "[Change in the feedback inhibition of monosynaptic spinal cord reflexes following removal of the anterior lobe of the cerebellum in cats].", "content": "In acute experiments on cats monosynaptic extensor and flexor reflexes and their recurrent inhibition were recorded from a L7 ventral root filament before and after removal of the anterior lobe of the cerebellum. Removal of the anterior lobe reduced the amplitude of monosynaptic extensor and flexor responses and at the same time decreased the level of recurrent inhibition of extensor reflexes and increased that of flexor reflexes. On the basis of these data it is suggested that the background control form the anterior lobe of the level of recurrent inhibition is one of the possible mechanisms participating in the cerebellar control of spinal motoneurons.", "contents": "[Change in the feedback inhibition of monosynaptic spinal cord reflexes following removal of the anterior lobe of the cerebellum in cats]. In acute experiments on cats monosynaptic extensor and flexor reflexes and their recurrent inhibition were recorded from a L7 ventral root filament before and after removal of the anterior lobe of the cerebellum. Removal of the anterior lobe reduced the amplitude of monosynaptic extensor and flexor responses and at the same time decreased the level of recurrent inhibition of extensor reflexes and increased that of flexor reflexes. On the basis of these data it is suggested that the background control form the anterior lobe of the level of recurrent inhibition is one of the possible mechanisms participating in the cerebellar control of spinal motoneurons.", "PMID": 440495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4863", "title": "[Dynamics of neuronal responses of the auditory zone of the cortex of wakeful cats during the process of elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex to acoustic stimulation].", "content": "In chronic experiments on cats the neuronal responses (recording by means of glass microelectrodes) of auditory cortex I were studied during elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex to a sound stimulus. During conditioning the biphasic reactions with a rather short-latent (50-100 ms) and more long-latent (400-500 and 800-900 ms) activation were predominant. The neighbouring neurons whose responses were recorded by the same microelectrode were involved into the activity more intensively. A differentiating stimulus in 70% of applications caused distinct changes in neuronal activity (predominantly of activation type). Analysis of the dynamics of responses of the same neuron during a great deal of combinations and its comparison with the formation of a motor reaction showed no direct correlation between the two events.", "contents": "[Dynamics of neuronal responses of the auditory zone of the cortex of wakeful cats during the process of elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex to acoustic stimulation]. In chronic experiments on cats the neuronal responses (recording by means of glass microelectrodes) of auditory cortex I were studied during elaboration of a defensive conditioned reflex to a sound stimulus. During conditioning the biphasic reactions with a rather short-latent (50-100 ms) and more long-latent (400-500 and 800-900 ms) activation were predominant. The neighbouring neurons whose responses were recorded by the same microelectrode were involved into the activity more intensively. A differentiating stimulus in 70% of applications caused distinct changes in neuronal activity (predominantly of activation type). Analysis of the dynamics of responses of the same neuron during a great deal of combinations and its comparison with the formation of a motor reaction showed no direct correlation between the two events.", "PMID": 440496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4864", "title": "Hypertension in children: endocrine aspects.", "content": "Hypertension in children is a rare disorder with reliable estimates of annual incidence that do not exceed 0.1%. At least one third of these cases have no definable etiology when all of the presently available diagnostic studies are used. Major invasive or expensive evaluations are indicated when hypertension is sustained or severe, and should be directed toward the renal and renovascular areas. Serum potassium and calcium estimates are essential in every case, but the more extensive evaluations of thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal cortical and adrenal medullary hormones should be reserved for patients with specific indications of malfunction in those systems.", "contents": "Hypertension in children: endocrine aspects. Hypertension in children is a rare disorder with reliable estimates of annual incidence that do not exceed 0.1%. At least one third of these cases have no definable etiology when all of the presently available diagnostic studies are used. Major invasive or expensive evaluations are indicated when hypertension is sustained or severe, and should be directed toward the renal and renovascular areas. Serum potassium and calcium estimates are essential in every case, but the more extensive evaluations of thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal cortical and adrenal medullary hormones should be reserved for patients with specific indications of malfunction in those systems.", "PMID": 440507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4865", "title": "Hypercalcemic and hypocalcemic disorders: diagnosis and treatment.", "content": "Current concepts concerning the mechanisms, diagnosis and means of treatment of a number of the major causes of hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia are reviewed. In particular, the role of abnormalities in metabolism of vitamin D including (1) excessive hepatic production of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D intoxication), (2) increased production of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (hyperparathyroidism and sarcoidosis), (3) impaired production of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (hypoparathyroidism, renal failure, vitamin-D-dependent rickets type I, pseudohypoparathyroidism) and (4) resistance to 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D; the use of vitamin D and its metabolites therapeutically is discussed.", "contents": "Hypercalcemic and hypocalcemic disorders: diagnosis and treatment. Current concepts concerning the mechanisms, diagnosis and means of treatment of a number of the major causes of hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia are reviewed. In particular, the role of abnormalities in metabolism of vitamin D including (1) excessive hepatic production of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D intoxication), (2) increased production of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (hyperparathyroidism and sarcoidosis), (3) impaired production of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (hypoparathyroidism, renal failure, vitamin-D-dependent rickets type I, pseudohypoparathyroidism) and (4) resistance to 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D; the use of vitamin D and its metabolites therapeutically is discussed.", "PMID": 440508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4866", "title": "Relationship of sympathetic nervous system tone and blood pressure.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) appear to reflect sympathetic nervous system (SNS) tone. Plasma NE increases substantially when the SNS is stressed by acute postural change or physical exercise. Standing up from the recumbent position elevates NE by about 90% in healthy normotensive and hypertensive subjects. Although a primary role of the SNS is the maintenance and stabilization of blood pressure, there does not seem to be a direct relationship between plasma levels of NE and blood pressure. Patients with essential hypertension cannot be differentiated from normotensive subjects of the same mean age on the basis of either basal plasma levels of NE nor increments in NE after a standard postural stress. Patients with syndromes affecting the autonomic nervous system who suffer from orthostatic hypotension may have striking abnormalities in SNS response to stress, and some subgroups may be distinguished on the basis of the plasma concentrations of NE and the changes in NE elicited by stress.", "contents": "Relationship of sympathetic nervous system tone and blood pressure. Plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) appear to reflect sympathetic nervous system (SNS) tone. Plasma NE increases substantially when the SNS is stressed by acute postural change or physical exercise. Standing up from the recumbent position elevates NE by about 90% in healthy normotensive and hypertensive subjects. Although a primary role of the SNS is the maintenance and stabilization of blood pressure, there does not seem to be a direct relationship between plasma levels of NE and blood pressure. Patients with essential hypertension cannot be differentiated from normotensive subjects of the same mean age on the basis of either basal plasma levels of NE nor increments in NE after a standard postural stress. Patients with syndromes affecting the autonomic nervous system who suffer from orthostatic hypotension may have striking abnormalities in SNS response to stress, and some subgroups may be distinguished on the basis of the plasma concentrations of NE and the changes in NE elicited by stress.", "PMID": 440510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4867", "title": "Chronobiology of blood pressure.", "content": "Blood pressure in normal and hypertensive subjects shows circadian variability with the minima during the hours of sleep. The factors influencing blood pressure show circadian variability, in particular, plasma and urinary aldosterone, plasma deoxycorticosterone and urinary sodium (factors implicated in cardiac output), angiotensin II as measured by plasma renin activity, plasma and urinary epinephrine and norepinephrine, and plasma and urinary prostaglandins of the E series (factors implicated in peripheral resistance). Direct causal relationships have not been established. The treatment of hypertensive subjects in relation to the circadian variability is reviewed.", "contents": "Chronobiology of blood pressure. Blood pressure in normal and hypertensive subjects shows circadian variability with the minima during the hours of sleep. The factors influencing blood pressure show circadian variability, in particular, plasma and urinary aldosterone, plasma deoxycorticosterone and urinary sodium (factors implicated in cardiac output), angiotensin II as measured by plasma renin activity, plasma and urinary epinephrine and norepinephrine, and plasma and urinary prostaglandins of the E series (factors implicated in peripheral resistance). Direct causal relationships have not been established. The treatment of hypertensive subjects in relation to the circadian variability is reviewed.", "PMID": 440511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4868", "title": "Hydrochlorothiazide diuresis in healthy man: review of the circadian mediation.", "content": "This is a review of evidence for a circadian-mediated pharmacology of a single dose of hydrochlorothiazide in normal man. The normal circadian rhythms of urine volume and electrolytes are discussed in detail. Information is documented that hydrochlorothiazide diuresis, in normal subjects on a normal schedule of diurnal activity/nocturnal rest, progressively increases for 4 h after a.m. administration and for 8 h after p.m. administration. This suggests that the therapeutic efficiency of a single dose may be enhanced (nearly 50%) by the simple expedient of prescribing in the afternoon. No information is provided as to whether the circadian-mediated response appertains in disease or with continued drug administration. The word 'circadian' is not found in classical pharmacological texts although many examples of circadian-mediated drug action have now been described. A circadian reappraisal of drug effects in general is overdue.", "contents": "Hydrochlorothiazide diuresis in healthy man: review of the circadian mediation. This is a review of evidence for a circadian-mediated pharmacology of a single dose of hydrochlorothiazide in normal man. The normal circadian rhythms of urine volume and electrolytes are discussed in detail. Information is documented that hydrochlorothiazide diuresis, in normal subjects on a normal schedule of diurnal activity/nocturnal rest, progressively increases for 4 h after a.m. administration and for 8 h after p.m. administration. This suggests that the therapeutic efficiency of a single dose may be enhanced (nearly 50%) by the simple expedient of prescribing in the afternoon. No information is provided as to whether the circadian-mediated response appertains in disease or with continued drug administration. The word 'circadian' is not found in classical pharmacological texts although many examples of circadian-mediated drug action have now been described. A circadian reappraisal of drug effects in general is overdue.", "PMID": 440512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4869", "title": "[A study on the problem of thoracic discprolapse (author's transl)].", "content": "The article reports on twenty patients with thoracic prolapsed discs treated by surgery within a period of ten years. The incidence in relation to prolapses at all levels was 1.2%. The average age was 50.3 years and there was no definite sex predominance. The segments Th 10-11 and Th 11-12 were the preferred sites. The period of the disease varied from a few hours to nine years. Among the most frequent subjective complaints were radiating pain, paraparesis of the legs and disturbed micturition. A definitely traumatic cause of the disease was present in one case only. Besides exact neurological diagnosis it is imperative to effect myelography with positive contrast medium, revealing the typical circular or oval-shaped filling defects. In our patients, laminectomy was performed 17 times, and hemilaminectomy three times. Besides removal of the prolapse, the dentate ligament was always divided. In some cases we also performed rhizotomy. Operation improved 15 patients, whereas in two patients the condition got worse and three patients showed neither improvement nor deterioration.", "contents": "[A study on the problem of thoracic discprolapse (author's transl)]. The article reports on twenty patients with thoracic prolapsed discs treated by surgery within a period of ten years. The incidence in relation to prolapses at all levels was 1.2%. The average age was 50.3 years and there was no definite sex predominance. The segments Th 10-11 and Th 11-12 were the preferred sites. The period of the disease varied from a few hours to nine years. Among the most frequent subjective complaints were radiating pain, paraparesis of the legs and disturbed micturition. A definitely traumatic cause of the disease was present in one case only. Besides exact neurological diagnosis it is imperative to effect myelography with positive contrast medium, revealing the typical circular or oval-shaped filling defects. In our patients, laminectomy was performed 17 times, and hemilaminectomy three times. Besides removal of the prolapse, the dentate ligament was always divided. In some cases we also performed rhizotomy. Operation improved 15 patients, whereas in two patients the condition got worse and three patients showed neither improvement nor deterioration.", "PMID": 440514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4870", "title": "The recurrence of intracranial meningiomas.", "content": "A series of 126 patients with meningioma, operated upon 7-17 years ago, is reviewed as to the recurrence of the tumour. The overall rate of recurrence of the histologically benign lesions was 29 per cent. The most important factors influencing the prognosis were the site of the tumour and the degree of radicality of excision. Both factors were illustrated best in the parasagittal meningiomas, which carry the highest rate of recurrence. Infiltration of tumour into adjacent bone does not necessarily carry a higher risk of a clinically relevant recurrence. There seems to be a great variation in the rate of growth of different meningiomas.", "contents": "The recurrence of intracranial meningiomas. A series of 126 patients with meningioma, operated upon 7-17 years ago, is reviewed as to the recurrence of the tumour. The overall rate of recurrence of the histologically benign lesions was 29 per cent. The most important factors influencing the prognosis were the site of the tumour and the degree of radicality of excision. Both factors were illustrated best in the parasagittal meningiomas, which carry the highest rate of recurrence. Infiltration of tumour into adjacent bone does not necessarily carry a higher risk of a clinically relevant recurrence. There seems to be a great variation in the rate of growth of different meningiomas.", "PMID": 440515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4871", "title": "Angiographic diagnosis of cerebral oedema.", "content": "Cerebral oedema is usually associated with brain vascular lesions, such as infarction, neoplasms, angiitis, thrombophlebitis, etc. and we consider that angiographic examination is essential for the diagnosis. In this paper we analyse the angiographic signs of cerebral oedema and the differential diagnosis between oedema and any associated lesions. We also consider that it is very important to establish a diagnosis between primary oedema and hydrocephalus with a view to establishing the correct treatment in each case.", "contents": "Angiographic diagnosis of cerebral oedema. Cerebral oedema is usually associated with brain vascular lesions, such as infarction, neoplasms, angiitis, thrombophlebitis, etc. and we consider that angiographic examination is essential for the diagnosis. In this paper we analyse the angiographic signs of cerebral oedema and the differential diagnosis between oedema and any associated lesions. We also consider that it is very important to establish a diagnosis between primary oedema and hydrocephalus with a view to establishing the correct treatment in each case.", "PMID": 440516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4872", "title": "[Secondary blood coagulation disturbances after severe head injuries (author's transl)].", "content": "The release of tissue thromboplastin after a severe brain injury can lead to a consumption coagulopathy. In a group of 83 patients with severe brain injury, platelet count, fibrinogen, prothrombin, partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time were investigated. The pathological laboratory findings in 14 were compatible with a consumption coagulopathy. These alterations were demonstrated during the first hours following trauma and represented an extra handicap for the patients who had to be treated surgically.", "contents": "[Secondary blood coagulation disturbances after severe head injuries (author's transl)]. The release of tissue thromboplastin after a severe brain injury can lead to a consumption coagulopathy. In a group of 83 patients with severe brain injury, platelet count, fibrinogen, prothrombin, partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time were investigated. The pathological laboratory findings in 14 were compatible with a consumption coagulopathy. These alterations were demonstrated during the first hours following trauma and represented an extra handicap for the patients who had to be treated surgically.", "PMID": 440517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4873", "title": "[Pineal teratoma--case report (author's transl)].", "content": "A 3-year-old boy had a history of nausea and vomiting for 1 month. After two episodes of tonic cramp, he became drowsy and then semicomatous. Physical examination on admission revealed a dehydrated semicomatous boy with fixed, dilated pupils of equal size, horizontal nystagmus, and left hemiparesis with bilateral Babinski signs. Plain skull films showed a separation of coronal and sagittal sutures. A high density area surrounded by cyst was found in the pineal region in CT scan. Angiography demonstrated stretching of the posterior choroidal arteries, backward displacement of the Galen, the posterior mesencephalic and the precentral vein. The right occipital transtentorial approach was selected to remove the tumor totally. Histology revealed epidermis, hair follicle, sebaceus and sweat glands, columar gland, bone, cartilage, muscle, fatty tissue, nervous tissue, and connective tissue, indicating a pineal teratoma. There was no evidence of germinoma.", "contents": "[Pineal teratoma--case report (author's transl)]. A 3-year-old boy had a history of nausea and vomiting for 1 month. After two episodes of tonic cramp, he became drowsy and then semicomatous. Physical examination on admission revealed a dehydrated semicomatous boy with fixed, dilated pupils of equal size, horizontal nystagmus, and left hemiparesis with bilateral Babinski signs. Plain skull films showed a separation of coronal and sagittal sutures. A high density area surrounded by cyst was found in the pineal region in CT scan. Angiography demonstrated stretching of the posterior choroidal arteries, backward displacement of the Galen, the posterior mesencephalic and the precentral vein. The right occipital transtentorial approach was selected to remove the tumor totally. Histology revealed epidermis, hair follicle, sebaceus and sweat glands, columar gland, bone, cartilage, muscle, fatty tissue, nervous tissue, and connective tissue, indicating a pineal teratoma. There was no evidence of germinoma.", "PMID": 440519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4874", "title": "[Aneurysm surgery in the older patients (author's transl)].", "content": "A series of 9 patients over 70 years of age with saccular aneurysms, operated on by a direct surgery is reviewed in order to discuss the aneurysm surgery in the older patients. The median age of the patients was 74 years, and median interval from the hemorrhage to surgery was 18 days. Operative mortality was 11% and morbidity was 33%. Result of intracranial aneurysm surgery in the older patients depends on the surgical technique for the arteriosclerosis. 1. Treatment of the aneurysm neck must be abandoned when a severe arteriosclerosis exists around it. Subsequent to exposure of the whole aneurysm, a complete reinforcement of the aneurysm wall should be undertaken. 2. Especially gentle manipulation of the brain is necessary since small arteries are easily pulled out from the sclerotic artery. 3. The cerebral veins must be preserved as well as possible to avoid the venous congestion, which easily causes an intracerebral hematoma following brain retraction. 4. The frequency of pre and postoperative complications is high, but through vigorous care, they are kept under control. 5. It is best not to judge the surgical indication simply by the chronological age, but rather to consider the physical age including the laboratory findings. Therefore, other than cases of severe arteriosclerosis, the same principles for surgical indication in younger patients should be used for older patients.", "contents": "[Aneurysm surgery in the older patients (author's transl)]. A series of 9 patients over 70 years of age with saccular aneurysms, operated on by a direct surgery is reviewed in order to discuss the aneurysm surgery in the older patients. The median age of the patients was 74 years, and median interval from the hemorrhage to surgery was 18 days. Operative mortality was 11% and morbidity was 33%. Result of intracranial aneurysm surgery in the older patients depends on the surgical technique for the arteriosclerosis. 1. Treatment of the aneurysm neck must be abandoned when a severe arteriosclerosis exists around it. Subsequent to exposure of the whole aneurysm, a complete reinforcement of the aneurysm wall should be undertaken. 2. Especially gentle manipulation of the brain is necessary since small arteries are easily pulled out from the sclerotic artery. 3. The cerebral veins must be preserved as well as possible to avoid the venous congestion, which easily causes an intracerebral hematoma following brain retraction. 4. The frequency of pre and postoperative complications is high, but through vigorous care, they are kept under control. 5. It is best not to judge the surgical indication simply by the chronological age, but rather to consider the physical age including the laboratory findings. Therefore, other than cases of severe arteriosclerosis, the same principles for surgical indication in younger patients should be used for older patients.", "PMID": 440521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4875", "title": "[Surgical treatment of the carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms (author's transl)].", "content": "Six cases of carotid-ophthalmic aneurysm submitted to direct operation were studied. 1. One out of six cases died postoperatively (mortality rate 16.7%). 2. Exposure of the internal carotid artery at the neck is absolutely necessary for its temporary occlusion. Temporary occlusion of the internal carotid artery at the neck makes the dissection of the aneurysmal neck easier and prevents the aneurysmal rupture during operation. 3. To cope with various complicated handlings, bifrontal carniotomy is recommended. 4. In order to make easy the dissection of the aneurysmal neck, the unroofing of the optic canal as well as the extensive removal of the tip of the anterior clinoid should be performed. 5. From our experience as well as review of the literature, the surgical result of the giant aneurysms is bad. Some new therapy is expected to be developed for the giant aneurysm of this site.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of the carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms (author's transl)]. Six cases of carotid-ophthalmic aneurysm submitted to direct operation were studied. 1. One out of six cases died postoperatively (mortality rate 16.7%). 2. Exposure of the internal carotid artery at the neck is absolutely necessary for its temporary occlusion. Temporary occlusion of the internal carotid artery at the neck makes the dissection of the aneurysmal neck easier and prevents the aneurysmal rupture during operation. 3. To cope with various complicated handlings, bifrontal carniotomy is recommended. 4. In order to make easy the dissection of the aneurysmal neck, the unroofing of the optic canal as well as the extensive removal of the tip of the anterior clinoid should be performed. 5. From our experience as well as review of the literature, the surgical result of the giant aneurysms is bad. Some new therapy is expected to be developed for the giant aneurysm of this site.", "PMID": 440522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4876", "title": "[Cervical internal carotid artery occlusion after recovery from suicidal hanging--a case report (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of internal carotid artery occlusion due to attempted hanging was reported. This 51-year-old man, who failed in suicidal hanging, remained in right hemiplegia and total aphasia. Left carotid arteriogram revealed complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery approximately 1 cm distal to its origin. Surgical exposure of the internal carotid artery was performed 4 weeks after the attempted hanging. The occlusive portion was percutaneously injured by ligature, whereby there was a horizontal breach of intima, media and adventitia at the level of the ligature. The damaged arterial wall was resected, and a reconstructive vascular surgery in the neck was performed. But postoperative arteriogram showed an unsatisfactory result. Pathogenesis of traumatic involvements of the internal carotid artery was discussed with literature. Also it was discussed that internal carotid artery occlusion was a very important factor causing death in suicidal hanging.", "contents": "[Cervical internal carotid artery occlusion after recovery from suicidal hanging--a case report (author's transl)]. A case of internal carotid artery occlusion due to attempted hanging was reported. This 51-year-old man, who failed in suicidal hanging, remained in right hemiplegia and total aphasia. Left carotid arteriogram revealed complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery approximately 1 cm distal to its origin. Surgical exposure of the internal carotid artery was performed 4 weeks after the attempted hanging. The occlusive portion was percutaneously injured by ligature, whereby there was a horizontal breach of intima, media and adventitia at the level of the ligature. The damaged arterial wall was resected, and a reconstructive vascular surgery in the neck was performed. But postoperative arteriogram showed an unsatisfactory result. Pathogenesis of traumatic involvements of the internal carotid artery was discussed with literature. Also it was discussed that internal carotid artery occlusion was a very important factor causing death in suicidal hanging.", "PMID": 440526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4877", "title": "[An operated case of clivus chondroma (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of clivus chondroma was presented in detail with a review of twenty-four cases reported in Japan. A twenty-eight-year-old house wife was admitted to hospital with complaints of muscle weakness and numbness on the right side of the body. Neurological examination revealed the right hemiparesis and hemihypesthesia. Cranial nerve palsies were also disclosed on the right Vth and the left IXth, Xth and XIth nerves. Craniograms showed a ring-like calcified shadow localized in the clival region without definite bone destruction. Roentgenograms disclosed many well-demarcated radioluscent areas in the phalanges of both hands and feet. The marked separation between the basilar artery and the clivus was demonstrated on vertebal angiograms and pneumoventriculograms. CT scan showed an irregularly shaped low density area localized on the clivus, which turned out to be enhanced following contrast infusion. The tumor was partially removed by the subtemporal approach, and was histologically chondroma. The patient was discharged, gaining adequate muscle strength after operations.", "contents": "[An operated case of clivus chondroma (author's transl)]. A case of clivus chondroma was presented in detail with a review of twenty-four cases reported in Japan. A twenty-eight-year-old house wife was admitted to hospital with complaints of muscle weakness and numbness on the right side of the body. Neurological examination revealed the right hemiparesis and hemihypesthesia. Cranial nerve palsies were also disclosed on the right Vth and the left IXth, Xth and XIth nerves. Craniograms showed a ring-like calcified shadow localized in the clival region without definite bone destruction. Roentgenograms disclosed many well-demarcated radioluscent areas in the phalanges of both hands and feet. The marked separation between the basilar artery and the clivus was demonstrated on vertebal angiograms and pneumoventriculograms. CT scan showed an irregularly shaped low density area localized on the clivus, which turned out to be enhanced following contrast infusion. The tumor was partially removed by the subtemporal approach, and was histologically chondroma. The patient was discharged, gaining adequate muscle strength after operations.", "PMID": 440527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4878", "title": "Activation of masculine sexual behavior by intracranial estradiol benzoate implants in male rats.", "content": "Intracranial implants of estradiol benzoate (EB) were used to explore sites of action for the activation of masculine copulatory behavior in castrated male rats. In experiment 1, 27 or 30 gauge implants were placed unilaterally throughout the hypothalamus and preoptic area. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was administered subcutaneously (s.c.) to each male. 25 of 42 males with EB implants located in the medial anterior hypothalamic-preoptic area (AHPOA) exhibited ejaculatory patterns on at least 40% of the post-implantation tests. In contrast, only 4 of 18 of the males with implants located posterior to the anterior hypothalamic area displayed this level of response. This difference in the proportion of animals responding for each implant group was statistically significant. Seminal vesicle weights were not correlated with the occurrence of copulation. In experiment 2, either EB-filled or empty cannulae were placed unilaterally in the AHPOA. Half of the males of each group also received DHT s.c. Intracranial EB in conjunction with DHT s.c. resulted in a significantly greater frequency of ejaculatory response than any other treatment. Despite significant differences among the groups in seminal vesicle weights, there was no correlation with occurrence of ejaculatory behavior. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that testosterone (T) exerts its effects upon masculine sexual behavior via conversion to estradiol (E2); and that the principal neural site of action is the AHPOA.", "contents": "Activation of masculine sexual behavior by intracranial estradiol benzoate implants in male rats. Intracranial implants of estradiol benzoate (EB) were used to explore sites of action for the activation of masculine copulatory behavior in castrated male rats. In experiment 1, 27 or 30 gauge implants were placed unilaterally throughout the hypothalamus and preoptic area. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was administered subcutaneously (s.c.) to each male. 25 of 42 males with EB implants located in the medial anterior hypothalamic-preoptic area (AHPOA) exhibited ejaculatory patterns on at least 40% of the post-implantation tests. In contrast, only 4 of 18 of the males with implants located posterior to the anterior hypothalamic area displayed this level of response. This difference in the proportion of animals responding for each implant group was statistically significant. Seminal vesicle weights were not correlated with the occurrence of copulation. In experiment 2, either EB-filled or empty cannulae were placed unilaterally in the AHPOA. Half of the males of each group also received DHT s.c. Intracranial EB in conjunction with DHT s.c. resulted in a significantly greater frequency of ejaculatory response than any other treatment. Despite significant differences among the groups in seminal vesicle weights, there was no correlation with occurrence of ejaculatory behavior. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that testosterone (T) exerts its effects upon masculine sexual behavior via conversion to estradiol (E2); and that the principal neural site of action is the AHPOA.", "PMID": 440530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4879", "title": "Observations on the secretions of the subcommissural organ and the pineal in the adult brush-talled possum (Trichosurus vulpecula).", "content": "Secretory functions of the subcommissural organ (SCO) were investigated using mainly transmission and scanning electron microscopes, in 40 adult (19 males, 21 females) Trichosurus vulpecula which were caught in different seasons over several years. There is clear evidence of apical secretion, Reissner's fiber (RF), a presumptive basal secretory material with associated perivascular space and labyrinthine basal lamina. Secretory function does not appear to be related to the sex of the animal or to the season when they were investigated. Radioimmunoassay of blood, SCO and pineal gland (PIN) for melatonin (MEL) was carried out in 18 adult animals in summer and winter. Gonads were also histologically examined. The SCO showed very little MEL. Findings suggest that the PIN of this animal has a low capacity to store and secrete MEL. Further, there is no evidence for the increased storage or secretion of MEL during darkness, and more specifically at midnight. The present investigators support the view that other indoles such as methoxytryptophol or pineal peptides may elicit the physiological effects of PIN.", "contents": "Observations on the secretions of the subcommissural organ and the pineal in the adult brush-talled possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). Secretory functions of the subcommissural organ (SCO) were investigated using mainly transmission and scanning electron microscopes, in 40 adult (19 males, 21 females) Trichosurus vulpecula which were caught in different seasons over several years. There is clear evidence of apical secretion, Reissner's fiber (RF), a presumptive basal secretory material with associated perivascular space and labyrinthine basal lamina. Secretory function does not appear to be related to the sex of the animal or to the season when they were investigated. Radioimmunoassay of blood, SCO and pineal gland (PIN) for melatonin (MEL) was carried out in 18 adult animals in summer and winter. Gonads were also histologically examined. The SCO showed very little MEL. Findings suggest that the PIN of this animal has a low capacity to store and secrete MEL. Further, there is no evidence for the increased storage or secretion of MEL during darkness, and more specifically at midnight. The present investigators support the view that other indoles such as methoxytryptophol or pineal peptides may elicit the physiological effects of PIN.", "PMID": 440531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4880", "title": "Central effects of angiotensin II in water and saline loaded rats.", "content": "In unanesthetized water-loaded rats, intracerebroventricular (IVT) angiotensin II (AII) injections produce centrally mediated pressor effects and antidiuresis. Experiments were performed to evaluate the role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release versus neurogenic mechanisms in the antidiuretic responses to central AII median eminence lesions used to block ADH release abolish antidiuretic effects but only attenuated pressor responses to IVT AII infusions. Pretreatment with an intravenous infusion of ADH antibody had a similar effect. Central administration of AII in water and saline-loaded rats produced no change in effective renal plasma flow or glomerular filtration rate, Natriuretic and kaliuretic responses to IVT AII injections were similar to those observed to intravenous ADH infusions. These data are consistent with the suggestion that antidiuresis and osmotic excretion observed after IVT AII injections in the rats are the result of ADH release, and that neurogenic mechanisms play a major role in the blood pressure but not in the antidiuretic responses.", "contents": "Central effects of angiotensin II in water and saline loaded rats. In unanesthetized water-loaded rats, intracerebroventricular (IVT) angiotensin II (AII) injections produce centrally mediated pressor effects and antidiuresis. Experiments were performed to evaluate the role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release versus neurogenic mechanisms in the antidiuretic responses to central AII median eminence lesions used to block ADH release abolish antidiuretic effects but only attenuated pressor responses to IVT AII infusions. Pretreatment with an intravenous infusion of ADH antibody had a similar effect. Central administration of AII in water and saline-loaded rats produced no change in effective renal plasma flow or glomerular filtration rate, Natriuretic and kaliuretic responses to IVT AII injections were similar to those observed to intravenous ADH infusions. These data are consistent with the suggestion that antidiuresis and osmotic excretion observed after IVT AII injections in the rats are the result of ADH release, and that neurogenic mechanisms play a major role in the blood pressure but not in the antidiuretic responses.", "PMID": 440532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4881", "title": "The effect of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) on the prolactin response to sexual behavior in the male rat.", "content": "L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) to sexually experienced male rats, and blood was collected both by decapitation without anesthesia and by cardiac puncture with ether anesthesia. Samples were taken before and during mating with a receptive female. Both the prolactin (Prl) response to ether and the Prl response to mating were suppressed by L-dopa. Basal Prl levels were depressed, but not significantly. However, sexual behavior was not altered by L-dopa. It was concluded that the previously reported loss of the Prl response to an estrous female in male rats lesioned in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) could not account for their loss of sexual behavior. Further, elevation of Prl levels during mating is not necessary to normal sexual behavior in the intact male rat.", "contents": "The effect of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) on the prolactin response to sexual behavior in the male rat. L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) to sexually experienced male rats, and blood was collected both by decapitation without anesthesia and by cardiac puncture with ether anesthesia. Samples were taken before and during mating with a receptive female. Both the prolactin (Prl) response to ether and the Prl response to mating were suppressed by L-dopa. Basal Prl levels were depressed, but not significantly. However, sexual behavior was not altered by L-dopa. It was concluded that the previously reported loss of the Prl response to an estrous female in male rats lesioned in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) could not account for their loss of sexual behavior. Further, elevation of Prl levels during mating is not necessary to normal sexual behavior in the intact male rat.", "PMID": 440533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4882", "title": "The effect of hypothalamic lesions on estradiol-induced changes in LH release in the ewe.", "content": "The effect of hypothalamic lesions on estradiol-induced changes in plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) concentration was studied in ovariectomized ewes. The ewes had stainless steel electrodes chronically implanted in the hypothalamus (HYP), and electrolytic lesions were made within 1 h after the injection of 50 microgram estradial benzoate (EB) i.m. Blood samples were collected at 2--6 h intervals for 30 h after EB, and the plasma was subsequently assayed for LH. None of the lesions produced had any effect on the normal immediate (within 12 h after injection) inhibitory effect of estrogen on LH release. However basal hyothalamic lesions, ranging from the suprachiamatic region back over the optic chiasma down to include the anterior tuberal region, effectively inhibited the normal stimulatory effect of estrogen (12--30 h after injection) on LH release. The results are consistent with the interpretation that, in the normal biphasic LH response to injected estrogen in the ewe, the early inhibition of LH release results from direct inhibition of pituitary sensitivity to endogenous LH-releasing factor (LRF). On the other hand the estrogen-induced LH release which occurs subsequent to this inhibitory phase is principally the result of increased LRF secretion by the HYP.", "contents": "The effect of hypothalamic lesions on estradiol-induced changes in LH release in the ewe. The effect of hypothalamic lesions on estradiol-induced changes in plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) concentration was studied in ovariectomized ewes. The ewes had stainless steel electrodes chronically implanted in the hypothalamus (HYP), and electrolytic lesions were made within 1 h after the injection of 50 microgram estradial benzoate (EB) i.m. Blood samples were collected at 2--6 h intervals for 30 h after EB, and the plasma was subsequently assayed for LH. None of the lesions produced had any effect on the normal immediate (within 12 h after injection) inhibitory effect of estrogen on LH release. However basal hyothalamic lesions, ranging from the suprachiamatic region back over the optic chiasma down to include the anterior tuberal region, effectively inhibited the normal stimulatory effect of estrogen (12--30 h after injection) on LH release. The results are consistent with the interpretation that, in the normal biphasic LH response to injected estrogen in the ewe, the early inhibition of LH release results from direct inhibition of pituitary sensitivity to endogenous LH-releasing factor (LRF). On the other hand the estrogen-induced LH release which occurs subsequent to this inhibitory phase is principally the result of increased LRF secretion by the HYP.", "PMID": 440534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4883", "title": "Cystic lesions associated with intracranial meningiomas.", "content": "Three unusual cases of large, peritumoral cystic lesions associated with intracranial meningiomas are reported. In each case, the cyst caused difficulty in the interpretation of the computed tomogram when the latter was considered as a diagnostic test by itself, but the composite information obtained from the clinical history, cerebral angiography, and a radionuclide brain scan led to the correct preoperative diagnosis. The cyst was extrinsic to the tumor and contained xanthochromic fluid with a high protein content. The cyst wall consisted of brain parenchyma that showed glial cell proliferation (confirmed by the presence of glial fibrillary acidic protein by immunoperoxidase staining).", "contents": "Cystic lesions associated with intracranial meningiomas. Three unusual cases of large, peritumoral cystic lesions associated with intracranial meningiomas are reported. In each case, the cyst caused difficulty in the interpretation of the computed tomogram when the latter was considered as a diagnostic test by itself, but the composite information obtained from the clinical history, cerebral angiography, and a radionuclide brain scan led to the correct preoperative diagnosis. The cyst was extrinsic to the tumor and contained xanthochromic fluid with a high protein content. The cyst wall consisted of brain parenchyma that showed glial cell proliferation (confirmed by the presence of glial fibrillary acidic protein by immunoperoxidase staining).", "PMID": 440541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4884", "title": "Total morbidity and mortality rates of patients with surgically treated intracranial aneurysms.", "content": "The authors report their recent experience in treating 80 patients with intracranial aneurysms. A total of 83 surgical procedures were performed with a surgical mortality of 4.8%. Fifty-six patients had suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Total mortality for this group was 14.2% regardless of clinical grade. Early surgical intervention, meticulous preoperative monitoring, and control of circulatory dynamics were used to improve the perioperative morbidity and mortality rates. We believe that any major improvements in the outcome of patients with aneurysms will come from advances in perioperative management.", "contents": "Total morbidity and mortality rates of patients with surgically treated intracranial aneurysms. The authors report their recent experience in treating 80 patients with intracranial aneurysms. A total of 83 surgical procedures were performed with a surgical mortality of 4.8%. Fifty-six patients had suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Total mortality for this group was 14.2% regardless of clinical grade. Early surgical intervention, meticulous preoperative monitoring, and control of circulatory dynamics were used to improve the perioperative morbidity and mortality rates. We believe that any major improvements in the outcome of patients with aneurysms will come from advances in perioperative management.", "PMID": 440543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4885", "title": "Microsurgical lumbar discectomy: preliminary report of 83 consecutive cases.", "content": "The application of microsurgical technique to lumbar discectomy may be of dual value: minimal disruption of the integrity of normal anatomy and meticulous hemostasis may help to speed the process of convalescence, and the retention of epidural fat around the nerve root may help to prevent adhesions, a common cause of the late, \"failed disc\" syndrome. The authors report their experience with 83 consecutive microdiscectomies for lumbar disc protrusions. The results must be considered as tentative because the follow-up period has been short and the authors found it difficult to quantify the quality of health during the convalescent phase, although this seemed to be excellent. Their short term results are similar to those of the larger series reported by Williams, whose experience with microsurgical lumbar discectomies began 6 years ago. No other series have been reported. The authors describe their technique and compare it to that of Williams.", "contents": "Microsurgical lumbar discectomy: preliminary report of 83 consecutive cases. The application of microsurgical technique to lumbar discectomy may be of dual value: minimal disruption of the integrity of normal anatomy and meticulous hemostasis may help to speed the process of convalescence, and the retention of epidural fat around the nerve root may help to prevent adhesions, a common cause of the late, \"failed disc\" syndrome. The authors report their experience with 83 consecutive microdiscectomies for lumbar disc protrusions. The results must be considered as tentative because the follow-up period has been short and the authors found it difficult to quantify the quality of health during the convalescent phase, although this seemed to be excellent. Their short term results are similar to those of the larger series reported by Williams, whose experience with microsurgical lumbar discectomies began 6 years ago. No other series have been reported. The authors describe their technique and compare it to that of Williams.", "PMID": 440544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4886", "title": "Personality factors and results of lumbar disc surgery.", "content": "Patients undergoing surgery for herniated lumbar discs were evaluated prospectively with a battery of psychological tests. Personality factors in patients having a good outcome were compared to those in patients having a bad outcome. Both groups had similar surgical findings. Patients with a good outcome were more stable, cautious, efficiently defensive, self-confident, realistically concerned with their illness, mildly depressed, generally optimistic regarding outcome, and able to withstand setbacks without resorting to emergency reactions. Patients with a bad outcome were less stable, were unpredictable, had inefficient defenses, were more obviously depressed, and were less able to withstand stress and breakdown. However, even the degree of psychological testing used in this study does not definitely predict outcome.", "contents": "Personality factors and results of lumbar disc surgery. Patients undergoing surgery for herniated lumbar discs were evaluated prospectively with a battery of psychological tests. Personality factors in patients having a good outcome were compared to those in patients having a bad outcome. Both groups had similar surgical findings. Patients with a good outcome were more stable, cautious, efficiently defensive, self-confident, realistically concerned with their illness, mildly depressed, generally optimistic regarding outcome, and able to withstand setbacks without resorting to emergency reactions. Patients with a bad outcome were less stable, were unpredictable, had inefficient defenses, were more obviously depressed, and were less able to withstand stress and breakdown. However, even the degree of psychological testing used in this study does not definitely predict outcome.", "PMID": 440545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4887", "title": "Effects of glycine administration on canine experimental spinal spasticity and the levels of glycine, glutamate, and aspartate in the lumbar spinal cord.", "content": "Twelve female mongrel dogs were made paraplegic by midthoracic spinal cord transection. Beginning at 9 weeks posttransection, either glycine (50 mg/kg) or saline was injected intramuscularly each day and the signs of spinal spasticity were assessed clinically. After treating the dogs for 3 weeks, we removed the lumbar enlargement of each dog and microdissected it into gray and white areas which we assayed for glycine, glutamate, and aspartate content. Some of the clinical signs of spasticity improved in the animals injected with glycine compared to the saline-injected controls. The content of glycine was significantly elevated in the central gray matter and ventral medial white matter of the glycine-treated dogs. The levels of glutamate were also significantly elevated in the central, lateral ventral, and medial ventral gray matter and in the dorsal lateral and ventral medial white matter of the glycine-treated dogs. The possible role of these segmental putative neurotransmitters in spinal spasticity is discussed.", "contents": "Effects of glycine administration on canine experimental spinal spasticity and the levels of glycine, glutamate, and aspartate in the lumbar spinal cord. Twelve female mongrel dogs were made paraplegic by midthoracic spinal cord transection. Beginning at 9 weeks posttransection, either glycine (50 mg/kg) or saline was injected intramuscularly each day and the signs of spinal spasticity were assessed clinically. After treating the dogs for 3 weeks, we removed the lumbar enlargement of each dog and microdissected it into gray and white areas which we assayed for glycine, glutamate, and aspartate content. Some of the clinical signs of spasticity improved in the animals injected with glycine compared to the saline-injected controls. The content of glycine was significantly elevated in the central gray matter and ventral medial white matter of the glycine-treated dogs. The levels of glutamate were also significantly elevated in the central, lateral ventral, and medial ventral gray matter and in the dorsal lateral and ventral medial white matter of the glycine-treated dogs. The possible role of these segmental putative neurotransmitters in spinal spasticity is discussed.", "PMID": 440547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4888", "title": "Effect of total body temperature on toxicity of 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU).", "content": "One hundred eighty-two rats were divided into groups to test the effect of three different total body temperature levels on the toxic effect of three different dose levels of 1,3-bis(2-chlorethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU) and to assess the effect of delayed total body temperature elevation on BCNU breakdown products. Results were tabulated on the basis of life survival figures. At depressed total body temperatures (28 degrees C), normally expected toxicity was avoided. Elevated body temperatures, on the other hand, enhanced the toxic effect of BCNU. Delayed total body temperature elevation (3 and 6 days after BCNU administration) created similar toxicity. This finding was not observed when total body temperature elevation was delayed 10 days. The results point toward an interesting interaction between BCNU and heat (immediate and delayed) on the basis of an elevated metabolic rate of tissue, a synergistic effect of two therapeutic modalities, interference with normal reparative processes by the combination, or an enhancement of retained serum protein-bound breakdown products of BCNU.", "contents": "Effect of total body temperature on toxicity of 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU). One hundred eighty-two rats were divided into groups to test the effect of three different total body temperature levels on the toxic effect of three different dose levels of 1,3-bis(2-chlorethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU) and to assess the effect of delayed total body temperature elevation on BCNU breakdown products. Results were tabulated on the basis of life survival figures. At depressed total body temperatures (28 degrees C), normally expected toxicity was avoided. Elevated body temperatures, on the other hand, enhanced the toxic effect of BCNU. Delayed total body temperature elevation (3 and 6 days after BCNU administration) created similar toxicity. This finding was not observed when total body temperature elevation was delayed 10 days. The results point toward an interesting interaction between BCNU and heat (immediate and delayed) on the basis of an elevated metabolic rate of tissue, a synergistic effect of two therapeutic modalities, interference with normal reparative processes by the combination, or an enhancement of retained serum protein-bound breakdown products of BCNU.", "PMID": 440548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4889", "title": "Successful management of bilateral carotid-cavernous fistulae with a trans-sphenoidal approach.", "content": "A patient with traumatic bilateral carotid-cavernous fistulae was successfully treated by an entirely extracranial approach. The larger fistula on the left was exposed via a transethmoidal, trans-sphenoidal route and was directly opened and packed while the cavernous carotid artery was stented open by an intraluminal balloon catheter. The balloon catheter provided temporary hemostasis and was removed after the fistula had been packed. The left carotid artery remained patent, and the smaller fistula on the right was subsequently obliterated by a balloon catheter. The fistulae have remained cured, and the left internal carotid artery supplies the cerebral circulation.", "contents": "Successful management of bilateral carotid-cavernous fistulae with a trans-sphenoidal approach. A patient with traumatic bilateral carotid-cavernous fistulae was successfully treated by an entirely extracranial approach. The larger fistula on the left was exposed via a transethmoidal, trans-sphenoidal route and was directly opened and packed while the cavernous carotid artery was stented open by an intraluminal balloon catheter. The balloon catheter provided temporary hemostasis and was removed after the fistula had been packed. The left carotid artery remained patent, and the smaller fistula on the right was subsequently obliterated by a balloon catheter. The fistulae have remained cured, and the left internal carotid artery supplies the cerebral circulation.", "PMID": 440549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4890", "title": "Alexia without agraphia in a musician after transcallosal removal of a left intraventricular meningioma.", "content": "After a meningioma situated in the trigone of the left lateral ventricle was excised by the transcallosal approach of Kempe and Blaylock, a right-handed musician with a right hemianopsia developed alexia without agraphia. In contrast to previously reported cases of this syndrome arising from other etiologies, he was unable to read single letters or numbers. Neuropsychological studies at 42 and 126 days after operation also disclosed an inability to associate auditory or tactile stimuli with visually perceived material, whereas speech and verbal comprehension were intact. Although the alexia extended to musical notes, he could interpret other musical symbols (e.g., treble clef). Appreciation of rhythm and expressive musical ability were relatively preserved, although judgment of other musical features (including discrimination of pitch, duration, and loudness) was compromised. The findings suggest that alexia may occur as a consequence of the transcallosal procedure when a right hemianopsia is present. However, other linguistic abilities may be better preserved by the transcallosal approach to the ventricle than by a transcortical operation.", "contents": "Alexia without agraphia in a musician after transcallosal removal of a left intraventricular meningioma. After a meningioma situated in the trigone of the left lateral ventricle was excised by the transcallosal approach of Kempe and Blaylock, a right-handed musician with a right hemianopsia developed alexia without agraphia. In contrast to previously reported cases of this syndrome arising from other etiologies, he was unable to read single letters or numbers. Neuropsychological studies at 42 and 126 days after operation also disclosed an inability to associate auditory or tactile stimuli with visually perceived material, whereas speech and verbal comprehension were intact. Although the alexia extended to musical notes, he could interpret other musical symbols (e.g., treble clef). Appreciation of rhythm and expressive musical ability were relatively preserved, although judgment of other musical features (including discrimination of pitch, duration, and loudness) was compromised. The findings suggest that alexia may occur as a consequence of the transcallosal procedure when a right hemianopsia is present. However, other linguistic abilities may be better preserved by the transcallosal approach to the ventricle than by a transcortical operation.", "PMID": 440550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4891", "title": "Calvarial hemangioendothelioma with intracranial hemorrhage: case report.", "content": "A case of a hemangioendothelioma of the occipital bone that presented clinically as an acute epidural hematoma is reported. The literature regarding this rare bone tumor is reviewed. The treatment of choice seems to be wide surgical excision, but life-threatening hemorrhage may occur due to extreme tumor vascularity. The role of radiotherapy remains uncertain.", "contents": "Calvarial hemangioendothelioma with intracranial hemorrhage: case report. A case of a hemangioendothelioma of the occipital bone that presented clinically as an acute epidural hematoma is reported. The literature regarding this rare bone tumor is reviewed. The treatment of choice seems to be wide surgical excision, but life-threatening hemorrhage may occur due to extreme tumor vascularity. The role of radiotherapy remains uncertain.", "PMID": 440551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4892", "title": "Chondroma of the spine in a newborn infant: case report.", "content": "We report a newborn infant with a chondroma of the spine covered by a large lipoma. The child had no neurological deficit. Presenting as a tumor of the back, the chondroma was successfully excised. A review of the pertinent literature emphasizes the rarity of this lesion.", "contents": "Chondroma of the spine in a newborn infant: case report. We report a newborn infant with a chondroma of the spine covered by a large lipoma. The child had no neurological deficit. Presenting as a tumor of the back, the chondroma was successfully excised. A review of the pertinent literature emphasizes the rarity of this lesion.", "PMID": 440552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4893", "title": "Response to amitriptyline and urinary MHPG in bipolar depressive patients.", "content": "This investigation was done in order to test the hypothesis that urinary MHPG levels provide a predictor of response to therapy in depressed patients. 15 elderly biopolar depressives were included in this study. Their depressive state was estimated by the Hamilton Depressive Scale and their urinary MHPG levels were simultaneously measured before and after 5 weeks of amitriptyline therapy. When comparing amitriptyline responders to nonresponders by parametric techniques, the responders excreted significantly higher mean MHPG levels before the treatment than the nonresponders. During treatment MHPG levels rose significantly in both groups.", "contents": "Response to amitriptyline and urinary MHPG in bipolar depressive patients. This investigation was done in order to test the hypothesis that urinary MHPG levels provide a predictor of response to therapy in depressed patients. 15 elderly biopolar depressives were included in this study. Their depressive state was estimated by the Hamilton Depressive Scale and their urinary MHPG levels were simultaneously measured before and after 5 weeks of amitriptyline therapy. When comparing amitriptyline responders to nonresponders by parametric techniques, the responders excreted significantly higher mean MHPG levels before the treatment than the nonresponders. During treatment MHPG levels rose significantly in both groups.", "PMID": 440555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4894", "title": "Interaction between intermittent photic stimulation and auditory stimulation on the human EEG. Preliminary investigation through power spectral analysis.", "content": "The effects of flicker photic stimulation (6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 flashes/sec) and of white noise (80 dB SPL) on the EEG of man were investigated with the aid of power spectral analysis. In order to evaluate both the alpha attenuation response (AAR) and the 'driving' reaction induced by flicker as well as the effect of noise, the analysis was carried out on broad (delta, theta, alpha, beta) and on narrow (bandwidth: 1 Hz) spectral bands. A significant correlation between the amount of AAR induced by noise and a measure of the tendency to exhibit photic driving was found, though there was no clear-cut interaction between the photic stimuli and noise when delivered stimultaneously.", "contents": "Interaction between intermittent photic stimulation and auditory stimulation on the human EEG. Preliminary investigation through power spectral analysis. The effects of flicker photic stimulation (6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 flashes/sec) and of white noise (80 dB SPL) on the EEG of man were investigated with the aid of power spectral analysis. In order to evaluate both the alpha attenuation response (AAR) and the 'driving' reaction induced by flicker as well as the effect of noise, the analysis was carried out on broad (delta, theta, alpha, beta) and on narrow (bandwidth: 1 Hz) spectral bands. A significant correlation between the amount of AAR induced by noise and a measure of the tendency to exhibit photic driving was found, though there was no clear-cut interaction between the photic stimuli and noise when delivered stimultaneously.", "PMID": 440556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4895", "title": "[Purpose, organization and structure of the coronary unit].", "content": "The purposes of the coronary unit are: 1) monitoring of fatal arrhythmias; 2) monitoring of shock and decompensation; 3) protection of the ischaemic myocardium. The structure and organization that a coronary unit should have to fulfil its purposes are described.", "contents": "[Purpose, organization and structure of the coronary unit]. The purposes of the coronary unit are: 1) monitoring of fatal arrhythmias; 2) monitoring of shock and decompensation; 3) protection of the ischaemic myocardium. The structure and organization that a coronary unit should have to fulfil its purposes are described.", "PMID": 440568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4896", "title": "[Occupational toxic hepatopathies. Current etiopathogenetic and diagnostic trends].", "content": "The large number of xenobiotic agents, associated with work or otherwise, that can attack the body, and the fundamental part played by the liver in the control of metabolic homeostasis offered the occasion for an examination of the present position with regard to the aetiopathogenesis and diagnosis of occupational toxic diseases of the liver. Attention is particularly directed to recent biochemical knowledge (molecular and cellular), to the main aetiopathogenetic features, and to the most modern criteria for the evaluation of liver damage, especially that of a chronic kind.", "contents": "[Occupational toxic hepatopathies. Current etiopathogenetic and diagnostic trends]. The large number of xenobiotic agents, associated with work or otherwise, that can attack the body, and the fundamental part played by the liver in the control of metabolic homeostasis offered the occasion for an examination of the present position with regard to the aetiopathogenesis and diagnosis of occupational toxic diseases of the liver. Attention is particularly directed to recent biochemical knowledge (molecular and cellular), to the main aetiopathogenetic features, and to the most modern criteria for the evaluation of liver damage, especially that of a chronic kind.", "PMID": 440569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4897", "title": "[Ileo-cecal malignant carcinoid tumor with orbital metastases as initial symptoms. Anatomo-clinical study].", "content": "A case of carcinoid tumor of the last ileal loop is presented; the first clinical sign was exophthalmos due to bilateral orbital metastases. The case is believed to be the third recorded one of carcinoid with metastases to the orbit; other metastatic lesions were located in myocardium, liver, spleen, kidney, ovary and trachea. Porgressive hirsutism was present in association with the somewhat atypical clinical picture.", "contents": "[Ileo-cecal malignant carcinoid tumor with orbital metastases as initial symptoms. Anatomo-clinical study]. A case of carcinoid tumor of the last ileal loop is presented; the first clinical sign was exophthalmos due to bilateral orbital metastases. The case is believed to be the third recorded one of carcinoid with metastases to the orbit; other metastatic lesions were located in myocardium, liver, spleen, kidney, ovary and trachea. Porgressive hirsutism was present in association with the somewhat atypical clinical picture.", "PMID": 440570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4898", "title": "[The electrocardiogram and arterial hypertension in primary hyperparathyroidism].", "content": "Cardiovascular conditions of 27 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism have been examinated. Hypertension has been found to be the only alteration significantly present (33,33% of patients), while heart disease are uncommon. Hypertension is often present without concomitant disease of the kidney. Blood pressure became normal in only one case over nine (11,11%) after parathyroidectomy.", "contents": "[The electrocardiogram and arterial hypertension in primary hyperparathyroidism]. Cardiovascular conditions of 27 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism have been examinated. Hypertension has been found to be the only alteration significantly present (33,33% of patients), while heart disease are uncommon. Hypertension is often present without concomitant disease of the kidney. Blood pressure became normal in only one case over nine (11,11%) after parathyroidectomy.", "PMID": 440571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4899", "title": "[Antibacterial effects of 70 percent denatured ethyl alcohol on hospital bacteria strains].", "content": "Data relating to a study of the activity of 70 percent methylated spirits on some bacterial strains isolated in a hospital environment are reported. It was found that the spirit had very little effect over times of 30'' or less, a good bactericidal power for time of 1', and an excellent bactericidal power for times of more than 1'.", "contents": "[Antibacterial effects of 70 percent denatured ethyl alcohol on hospital bacteria strains]. Data relating to a study of the activity of 70 percent methylated spirits on some bacterial strains isolated in a hospital environment are reported. It was found that the spirit had very little effect over times of 30'' or less, a good bactericidal power for time of 1', and an excellent bactericidal power for times of more than 1'.", "PMID": 440573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4900", "title": "[The Pelger-Huet granulocytic anomaly].", "content": "Pelger-Huet's granulocyte abnormality is discussed. This abnormality is characterized by the presence of granuloyctes with a non-segmented nucleus and thick nuclear chromatin gathered in large lumps, in contrast with the \"youthful\" appearance of the nuclei. In humans, a real Pelger-Huet abnormality with familial character and dominant autosomic transmission is distinguished together with a pseudo-Pelger in which the granulocytes assume cytological features similar to those typical of the constitutional abnormality but whose genesis is closely correlated to the disease of which these are an epiphenomenon.", "contents": "[The Pelger-Huet granulocytic anomaly]. Pelger-Huet's granulocyte abnormality is discussed. This abnormality is characterized by the presence of granuloyctes with a non-segmented nucleus and thick nuclear chromatin gathered in large lumps, in contrast with the \"youthful\" appearance of the nuclei. In humans, a real Pelger-Huet abnormality with familial character and dominant autosomic transmission is distinguished together with a pseudo-Pelger in which the granulocytes assume cytological features similar to those typical of the constitutional abnormality but whose genesis is closely correlated to the disease of which these are an epiphenomenon.", "PMID": 440574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4901", "title": "[Value and limitations of exfoliative cytological study of the pancreatico-duodenal juice collected during the secretin and pancreozymin test in the diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma].", "content": "Studies on exfoliative cytology of the pancreatic-duodenal juice in the diagnosis of pancreas neoplasia are not numerous and the data reported are not uniform. The present study examines 176 patients, 18 of them suffering from carcinoma of the pancreas. In these latter patients there were no advanced signs of the disease. Cytology gave a correctly negative result in 46.8% of the normal subjects and in those with non-neoplastic pancreatic or digestive conditions, correctly positive in 66.6% of the pancreas neoplasias, falsely negative in 2,2% of the total series and in 33.3% of the pancreatic cancers, and falsely positive in 1,1% of the series. In 47.7% of cases, the study proved useless owing to the absence of material in the collected juice.", "contents": "[Value and limitations of exfoliative cytological study of the pancreatico-duodenal juice collected during the secretin and pancreozymin test in the diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma]. Studies on exfoliative cytology of the pancreatic-duodenal juice in the diagnosis of pancreas neoplasia are not numerous and the data reported are not uniform. The present study examines 176 patients, 18 of them suffering from carcinoma of the pancreas. In these latter patients there were no advanced signs of the disease. Cytology gave a correctly negative result in 46.8% of the normal subjects and in those with non-neoplastic pancreatic or digestive conditions, correctly positive in 66.6% of the pancreas neoplasias, falsely negative in 2,2% of the total series and in 33.3% of the pancreatic cancers, and falsely positive in 1,1% of the series. In 47.7% of cases, the study proved useless owing to the absence of material in the collected juice.", "PMID": 440613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4902", "title": "[2 cases of Apud cell tumors of the rectum and colon].", "content": "Two cases of Apud cell tumour of the rectosigmoid are presented. The question of gross diagnosis and the therapeutic efficacy of polypectomy are discussed. Lastly, an account is given of the morphological, functional and embryogenetic features of these tumours.", "contents": "[2 cases of Apud cell tumors of the rectum and colon]. Two cases of Apud cell tumour of the rectosigmoid are presented. The question of gross diagnosis and the therapeutic efficacy of polypectomy are discussed. Lastly, an account is given of the morphological, functional and embryogenetic features of these tumours.", "PMID": 440614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4903", "title": "[Value of allergic intradermal reactions to antibiotics in preparation for surgery (in patients with a history of drug allergy)].", "content": "An allergological examination technique for application in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to antibiotics is described with reference to a personal series of 250 subjects admitted to the Bologna University obstetric and gynaecological pathology department for small pelvis surgery. The method of investigation is described and the results obtained are reviewed. It is felt that the investigation is of value in preoperative screening insofar as it eliminates or reduces the risk of allergic shock, and enables more precisely directed antibiotic management to be employed.", "contents": "[Value of allergic intradermal reactions to antibiotics in preparation for surgery (in patients with a history of drug allergy)]. An allergological examination technique for application in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to antibiotics is described with reference to a personal series of 250 subjects admitted to the Bologna University obstetric and gynaecological pathology department for small pelvis surgery. The method of investigation is described and the results obtained are reviewed. It is felt that the investigation is of value in preoperative screening insofar as it eliminates or reduces the risk of allergic shock, and enables more precisely directed antibiotic management to be employed.", "PMID": 440616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4904", "title": "[The behavior of lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in acute viral hepatitis and post-hepatitis cirrhosis].", "content": "The behaviour of LCAT was examined in acute viral hepatitis and post-hepatic cirrhosis. In the former case, the enzyme was also investigated during remissions. The influence of cholestasis on LCAT activity was evaluated. Depression was noted in cirrhosis and the acute stage of hepatitis, whereas enhanced values were observed during remissions. Depression of the enzyme by cholestasis is explained in a variety of ways.", "contents": "[The behavior of lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in acute viral hepatitis and post-hepatitis cirrhosis]. The behaviour of LCAT was examined in acute viral hepatitis and post-hepatic cirrhosis. In the former case, the enzyme was also investigated during remissions. The influence of cholestasis on LCAT activity was evaluated. Depression was noted in cirrhosis and the acute stage of hepatitis, whereas enhanced values were observed during remissions. Depression of the enzyme by cholestasis is explained in a variety of ways.", "PMID": 440618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4905", "title": "[Behavior of post-ischemic reactive hyperemia in increasing periods of circulatory arrest in healthy subjects and in patients with peripheral obliterating arteriopathy].", "content": "Reactive hyperemia was studied by plethysmographic measurement of the blood flow in the calf in normal subjects and in patients with peripheral arterial disease following circulatory arrest for periods ranging between 1 and 20 minutes. The duration of occlusion is an important factor in determining the behaviour of reactive hyperemia. Peak flow increases significantly when there is up to 10 minutes of circulatory arrest. Following release of an occlusion of 15 or 20 minutes, the further rise of peak flow is very moderate. The duration of subsequent hyperemia is greater in patients than in normal subjects, when the length of the occlusion is of 1 to 10 minutes. When circulatory arrest is prolonged for more than 10 minutes, the recovery time of basal flow is significantly greater in normal subjects. Several mechanisms are involved in reactive hyperemia; their relative importance may vary with the duration of occlusion. Circulatory arrest of 3--5 minutes is a useful clinical test to screen patients with arterial occlusive disease. It is not the best for a full evaluation of the blood flow in the lower limbs either in normal subjects or in partients.", "contents": "[Behavior of post-ischemic reactive hyperemia in increasing periods of circulatory arrest in healthy subjects and in patients with peripheral obliterating arteriopathy]. Reactive hyperemia was studied by plethysmographic measurement of the blood flow in the calf in normal subjects and in patients with peripheral arterial disease following circulatory arrest for periods ranging between 1 and 20 minutes. The duration of occlusion is an important factor in determining the behaviour of reactive hyperemia. Peak flow increases significantly when there is up to 10 minutes of circulatory arrest. Following release of an occlusion of 15 or 20 minutes, the further rise of peak flow is very moderate. The duration of subsequent hyperemia is greater in patients than in normal subjects, when the length of the occlusion is of 1 to 10 minutes. When circulatory arrest is prolonged for more than 10 minutes, the recovery time of basal flow is significantly greater in normal subjects. Several mechanisms are involved in reactive hyperemia; their relative importance may vary with the duration of occlusion. Circulatory arrest of 3--5 minutes is a useful clinical test to screen patients with arterial occlusive disease. It is not the best for a full evaluation of the blood flow in the lower limbs either in normal subjects or in partients.", "PMID": 440622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4906", "title": "[Histological and clinical correlations in thyroid pathology].", "content": "The cases of 138 patients who underwent, during the last six years, an operation for thyroid affections, have been reviewed in order to compare the definitive histological response with the clinical diagnosis. On the basis of this analysis it was pointed out that, even with the aid of the commonly used diagnostic investigations, it is difficult to get a certain and sure knowledge of the anatomo-pathological picture, before beginning the operation. Furthermore, the definitive histological diagnosis itself may be wrong if it is not based upon the examination of the whole removed tissue, using as many sections as possible.", "contents": "[Histological and clinical correlations in thyroid pathology]. The cases of 138 patients who underwent, during the last six years, an operation for thyroid affections, have been reviewed in order to compare the definitive histological response with the clinical diagnosis. On the basis of this analysis it was pointed out that, even with the aid of the commonly used diagnostic investigations, it is difficult to get a certain and sure knowledge of the anatomo-pathological picture, before beginning the operation. Furthermore, the definitive histological diagnosis itself may be wrong if it is not based upon the examination of the whole removed tissue, using as many sections as possible.", "PMID": 440623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4907", "title": "[Oxolinic acid treatment of urinary sepsis in patients with renal insufficiency].", "content": "The effect of oxolinic acid, administered at the rate of 750 mg twice/day, has been studied on 31 patients with urinary tract infections. Many of them had a marked impairment of renal function due to nephropathies of various origin. Favourable results, with sterile urine and complete remission of symptoms, were obtained in 73.3%. Patients who were resistant to previous different therapies, were successfully treated. Oxolinic acid was on the whole well tolerated and proved to be effective also in patients with impaired renal function. In some of the latter an improvement in renal function occurred as a result of the effective urinary infection care. The tolerability of oxolinic acid was good: only one patient interrupted the treatment because of insomnia; other 4 had transient and mild side-effects.", "contents": "[Oxolinic acid treatment of urinary sepsis in patients with renal insufficiency]. The effect of oxolinic acid, administered at the rate of 750 mg twice/day, has been studied on 31 patients with urinary tract infections. Many of them had a marked impairment of renal function due to nephropathies of various origin. Favourable results, with sterile urine and complete remission of symptoms, were obtained in 73.3%. Patients who were resistant to previous different therapies, were successfully treated. Oxolinic acid was on the whole well tolerated and proved to be effective also in patients with impaired renal function. In some of the latter an improvement in renal function occurred as a result of the effective urinary infection care. The tolerability of oxolinic acid was good: only one patient interrupted the treatment because of insomnia; other 4 had transient and mild side-effects.", "PMID": 440624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4908", "title": "[Changes in zinc retention in pregnancy].", "content": "Enhanced retention of nutrients in the gravid organism, which exceeds the normal deposition in the reproductive organs and in fetuses, is called 'pregnancy anabolism'. For zinc this superretention could be established only in the liver which was enlarged in gravid rats, too. In all other tissues of gravid animals, zinc contents were lower compared with nongravid rats. After lactation, these changes in zinc status were equalized, and gravid and nongravid animals showed the same values.", "contents": "[Changes in zinc retention in pregnancy]. Enhanced retention of nutrients in the gravid organism, which exceeds the normal deposition in the reproductive organs and in fetuses, is called 'pregnancy anabolism'. For zinc this superretention could be established only in the liver which was enlarged in gravid rats, too. In all other tissues of gravid animals, zinc contents were lower compared with nongravid rats. After lactation, these changes in zinc status were equalized, and gravid and nongravid animals showed the same values.", "PMID": 440626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4909", "title": "[Enhanced retention of zinc in the gravid organism].", "content": "Enhanced retention of nutrients in the gravid organism, which exceeds the normal deposition in the reproductive organs and in fetuses, is called 'pregnancy anabolism'. For zinc this superretention could be established only in the liver which was enlarged in gravid rats, too. In all other tissues of gravid animals, zinc contents were lower compared with nongravid rats. After lactation, these changes in zinc status were equalized, and gravid and nongravid animals showed the same values.", "contents": "[Enhanced retention of zinc in the gravid organism]. Enhanced retention of nutrients in the gravid organism, which exceeds the normal deposition in the reproductive organs and in fetuses, is called 'pregnancy anabolism'. For zinc this superretention could be established only in the liver which was enlarged in gravid rats, too. In all other tissues of gravid animals, zinc contents were lower compared with nongravid rats. After lactation, these changes in zinc status were equalized, and gravid and nongravid animals showed the same values.", "PMID": 440627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4910", "title": "Influence of norepinephrine and fasting on the oxygen consumption of genetically-obese mice.", "content": "Oxygen consumption was monitored in fed and fasted, lean and obese mice of the ob/ob strain before and after subcutaneous injections of norepinephrine (NE). The increase in oxygen consumption after NE was of a similar magnitude in both lean and obese fed mice, but of a longer duration in the obese. Prior fasting caused a diminution of the response in the lean but was associated with an enhanced response in the obese mice. Fasting also resulted in a significant depression of the resting oxygen consumption of the obese mice but not of the lean. The relevance of these findings to the inability of the obese mouse to withstand cold exposure and to the maintenance of the obese state is discussed.", "contents": "Influence of norepinephrine and fasting on the oxygen consumption of genetically-obese mice. Oxygen consumption was monitored in fed and fasted, lean and obese mice of the ob/ob strain before and after subcutaneous injections of norepinephrine (NE). The increase in oxygen consumption after NE was of a similar magnitude in both lean and obese fed mice, but of a longer duration in the obese. Prior fasting caused a diminution of the response in the lean but was associated with an enhanced response in the obese mice. Fasting also resulted in a significant depression of the resting oxygen consumption of the obese mice but not of the lean. The relevance of these findings to the inability of the obese mouse to withstand cold exposure and to the maintenance of the obese state is discussed.", "PMID": 440628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4911", "title": "Effects of exercise on plasma and liver lipids of rats. IV. Effects of exercise on hepatic cholesterogenesis and fecal steroid excretion in rats.", "content": "The effects of treadmill exercise on hepatic cholesterogenesis and fecal steroid excretion were studied using male Wistar rats fed a commercial pellet ration. Exercise, in comparison with ad libitum or pair-feeding sedentary groups, caused the following significant changes: (i) a reduction in the concentration of plasma triglyceride, phospholipid and cholesterol; (ii) a reduction in liver weight; (iii) increases in hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase activity and incorporation of mevalonate into digitonin precipitable sterol; (iv) increases in excretion of neutral and acidic steroids into the feces; (v) the increase in lipoprotein lipase activity in the cardiac muscle, and (vi) the decrease in the concentration of carcass triglyceride but not of cholesterol. These data suggest that the mechanism responsible for the plasma cholesterol-lowering effect of exercise is attributable to an increase in exretion of fecal neutral and acidic steroids accompanied by an acceleration of cholesterol turnover in the body.", "contents": "Effects of exercise on plasma and liver lipids of rats. IV. Effects of exercise on hepatic cholesterogenesis and fecal steroid excretion in rats. The effects of treadmill exercise on hepatic cholesterogenesis and fecal steroid excretion were studied using male Wistar rats fed a commercial pellet ration. Exercise, in comparison with ad libitum or pair-feeding sedentary groups, caused the following significant changes: (i) a reduction in the concentration of plasma triglyceride, phospholipid and cholesterol; (ii) a reduction in liver weight; (iii) increases in hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase activity and incorporation of mevalonate into digitonin precipitable sterol; (iv) increases in excretion of neutral and acidic steroids into the feces; (v) the increase in lipoprotein lipase activity in the cardiac muscle, and (vi) the decrease in the concentration of carcass triglyceride but not of cholesterol. These data suggest that the mechanism responsible for the plasma cholesterol-lowering effect of exercise is attributable to an increase in exretion of fecal neutral and acidic steroids accompanied by an acceleration of cholesterol turnover in the body.", "PMID": 440629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4912", "title": "Beneficial effect of zinc supplementation on reproduction in rats fed rapeseed protein concentrate.", "content": "Three groups of 33 90-day-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed, ad libitum, the following diets for 2 weeks before breeding. Diet 1 (D1) contained 20% protein from casein, diet 2 (D2) had the same level of protein from Tower rapeseed (Brassica napus) protein concontrate (RPC) and diet 3 (D3) was the same as D2 with a zinc supplement (70 mg/l) in the drinking water. From each group 6 animals were killed before breeding and 5-9 animals were killed at 1 and 2 weeks of gestation and post-partum. From each rat, blood, thyroids, liver and femur were collected for the determination of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium and magnesium. As a measure of the reproductive performance, body weight, number of pups in the uterus or delivered live or dead, and gestations days before parturition were recorded. The pups were examined for obvious deformities and also analysed for the above mineral elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy. In group D2, levels of zinc in maternal serum, liver, femur and in the pups were significantly lower than the comparable levels in the other two groups. The zinc supplemented RPC-fed group did not show the anorexia experienced by the unsupplemented group and there was neither a significant difference between reproductive performances of groups D1 and D3 nor was there any significant difference between the zinc levels determined. It was concluded that the toxic symptoms caused by RPC feeding was attributable to zinc deficiency probably caused by the high phytate level in the RPC.", "contents": "Beneficial effect of zinc supplementation on reproduction in rats fed rapeseed protein concentrate. Three groups of 33 90-day-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed, ad libitum, the following diets for 2 weeks before breeding. Diet 1 (D1) contained 20% protein from casein, diet 2 (D2) had the same level of protein from Tower rapeseed (Brassica napus) protein concontrate (RPC) and diet 3 (D3) was the same as D2 with a zinc supplement (70 mg/l) in the drinking water. From each group 6 animals were killed before breeding and 5-9 animals were killed at 1 and 2 weeks of gestation and post-partum. From each rat, blood, thyroids, liver and femur were collected for the determination of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium and magnesium. As a measure of the reproductive performance, body weight, number of pups in the uterus or delivered live or dead, and gestations days before parturition were recorded. The pups were examined for obvious deformities and also analysed for the above mineral elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy. In group D2, levels of zinc in maternal serum, liver, femur and in the pups were significantly lower than the comparable levels in the other two groups. The zinc supplemented RPC-fed group did not show the anorexia experienced by the unsupplemented group and there was neither a significant difference between reproductive performances of groups D1 and D3 nor was there any significant difference between the zinc levels determined. It was concluded that the toxic symptoms caused by RPC feeding was attributable to zinc deficiency probably caused by the high phytate level in the RPC.", "PMID": 440630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4913", "title": "Beneficial effect of zinc supplementation on reproduction in rats red rapeseed protein concentrate.", "content": "Three groups of 33 90-day-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed, ad libitum, the following diets for 2 weeks before breeding. Diet 1 (D1) contained 20% protein from casein, diet 2 (D2) had the same level of protein from Tower rapeseed (Brassica napus) protein concontrate (RPC) and diet 3 (D3) was the same as D2 with a zinc supplement (70 mg/l) in the drinking water. From each group 6 animals were killed before breeding and 5--9 animals were killed at 1 and 2 weeks of gestation and post-partum. From each rat, blood, thyroids, liver and femur were collected for the determination of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium and magnesium. As a measure of the reproductive performance, body weight, number of pups in the uterus or delivered live or dead, and gestation days before parturition were recorded. The pups were examined for obvious deformities and also analyzed for the above mineral elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy. In group D2, levels of zinc in maternal serum, liver, femur and in the pups were significantly lower than the comparable levels in the other two groups. The zinc supplemented RPC-fed group did not show the anorexia experienced by the unsupplemented group and there was neither a significant difference between reproductive performances of groups D1 and D3 nor was there any significant difference between the zinc levels determined. It was concluded that the toxic symptoms caused by RPC feeding were attributable to zinc deficiency probably caused by the high phytate level in the RPC.", "contents": "Beneficial effect of zinc supplementation on reproduction in rats red rapeseed protein concentrate. Three groups of 33 90-day-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed, ad libitum, the following diets for 2 weeks before breeding. Diet 1 (D1) contained 20% protein from casein, diet 2 (D2) had the same level of protein from Tower rapeseed (Brassica napus) protein concontrate (RPC) and diet 3 (D3) was the same as D2 with a zinc supplement (70 mg/l) in the drinking water. From each group 6 animals were killed before breeding and 5--9 animals were killed at 1 and 2 weeks of gestation and post-partum. From each rat, blood, thyroids, liver and femur were collected for the determination of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium and magnesium. As a measure of the reproductive performance, body weight, number of pups in the uterus or delivered live or dead, and gestation days before parturition were recorded. The pups were examined for obvious deformities and also analyzed for the above mineral elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy. In group D2, levels of zinc in maternal serum, liver, femur and in the pups were significantly lower than the comparable levels in the other two groups. The zinc supplemented RPC-fed group did not show the anorexia experienced by the unsupplemented group and there was neither a significant difference between reproductive performances of groups D1 and D3 nor was there any significant difference between the zinc levels determined. It was concluded that the toxic symptoms caused by RPC feeding were attributable to zinc deficiency probably caused by the high phytate level in the RPC.", "PMID": 440631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4914", "title": "Bioavailability of zinc in infant cereals.", "content": "The bioabailability of zinc in three cereals was determined by a rat assay, using total femur zinc as the indicator. The basal diet contained 25% egg white solids and 0.6 microgram zinc per gram. The infant cereals were included in the diets at three graded levels to supply 3--12 microgram zinc per gram. Zinc sulphate was used as a standard source, with and without supplemental iron (185, 370, 555 microgram/g, respectively) at 3, 6 and 9 microgram zinc per gram with a view to determine the effect of excess iron on zinc availability. Added iron from sodium iron pyrophosphate was not found to have any effect on the bioavailability of zinc from zinc sulphate. The responses for the three cereals were linear but the regression lines representing them and the standard source did not have a common intercept. However, the ratio of the slope of the regression line for the test source to that of the standard indicated that the cereal containing soy protein was a better source of zinc (ratio = 0.49) than the barley cereal (9.10) or the rice cereal (0.32). These ratios did not show any correlation with the actual iron-precipitable phytate phosphorus content or the reported crude fibre content.", "contents": "Bioavailability of zinc in infant cereals. The bioabailability of zinc in three cereals was determined by a rat assay, using total femur zinc as the indicator. The basal diet contained 25% egg white solids and 0.6 microgram zinc per gram. The infant cereals were included in the diets at three graded levels to supply 3--12 microgram zinc per gram. Zinc sulphate was used as a standard source, with and without supplemental iron (185, 370, 555 microgram/g, respectively) at 3, 6 and 9 microgram zinc per gram with a view to determine the effect of excess iron on zinc availability. Added iron from sodium iron pyrophosphate was not found to have any effect on the bioavailability of zinc from zinc sulphate. The responses for the three cereals were linear but the regression lines representing them and the standard source did not have a common intercept. However, the ratio of the slope of the regression line for the test source to that of the standard indicated that the cereal containing soy protein was a better source of zinc (ratio = 0.49) than the barley cereal (9.10) or the rice cereal (0.32). These ratios did not show any correlation with the actual iron-precipitable phytate phosphorus content or the reported crude fibre content.", "PMID": 440632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4915", "title": "Effect of zinc on some biochemical indices of metabolism.", "content": "The role of zinc in some metabolic functions in man was investigated in 14 healthy male volunteers with primarily high or low serum zinc. In all the subjects, results of laboratory tests reflecting blood picture, metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and thyroid function as well as serum calcium and phosphate levels varied within the normal range. Significant differences between the subjects classified by serum zinc were found in alpha1-globulins. Serm thyroxins, effective thyroxine ratio and the immunoglobulins IgA showed a tendency to lower levels in subjects with low serum zinc. Substitution with zinc sulphate resulted in an increase of alpha 1-globulins, serum thyroxine and effective thyroxine ratio, and a decrease of albumin. Other tests remained by the therapy. The results suggest that there is a relationship between zinc and some metabolic functions in healthy subjects without symptoms of zinc deficiency.", "contents": "Effect of zinc on some biochemical indices of metabolism. The role of zinc in some metabolic functions in man was investigated in 14 healthy male volunteers with primarily high or low serum zinc. In all the subjects, results of laboratory tests reflecting blood picture, metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and thyroid function as well as serum calcium and phosphate levels varied within the normal range. Significant differences between the subjects classified by serum zinc were found in alpha1-globulins. Serm thyroxins, effective thyroxine ratio and the immunoglobulins IgA showed a tendency to lower levels in subjects with low serum zinc. Substitution with zinc sulphate resulted in an increase of alpha 1-globulins, serum thyroxine and effective thyroxine ratio, and a decrease of albumin. Other tests remained by the therapy. The results suggest that there is a relationship between zinc and some metabolic functions in healthy subjects without symptoms of zinc deficiency.", "PMID": 440633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4916", "title": "Influence of different dietary carbohydrates on liver and plasma constituents in rats adapted to meal feeding.", "content": "Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given in one experiment diets with starch or sucrose and in a second experiment diets with glucose or fructose. In each experiment, one group of 5 rats was fed ad libitum and five other groups fed a 3-hour meal each day. After 36 days, one group of the meal-fed rats was killed when the meal was due, and the other groups at intervals after the beginning of the meal. The group fed ad libitum was killed the next day after 21 h fasting. Meal feeding led to a smaller food intake and a smaller gain in weight, and a lower blood concentration of triacylglycerol. The diets with sucrose or fructose produced heavier livers and kidneys than did those with starch or glucose. The consumption of the meal led also to a temporary increase in the weight of the liver. The weight of the kidney, however, did not change in rats given starch or gluocse, but fell in rats given sucrose or fructose. Meal consumption was also followed by an increase in the concentration of liver glycogen, irrespective of the nature of the dietary carbohydrate. The concentration of plasma fatty acids was affected differently by meals containing the different carbohydrates, the extremes being a continuing fall with starch and no change with fructose. The concentration of triacyglycerol was increased by sucrose or fructose after the presentation of the meal. The concentration of blood glucose rose and then fell when the meal contained starch or glucose, but fell and then rose when it contained sucrose, and especially when it contained fructose. The concentration of insulin in meal-fed rats receiving sucrose was higher than that of rats receiving starch, both before and after the meal. This difference was not seen in rats fed ad libitum. The results indicate that the effects of meal feeding, or of sucrose or fructose, are not additive.", "contents": "Influence of different dietary carbohydrates on liver and plasma constituents in rats adapted to meal feeding. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given in one experiment diets with starch or sucrose and in a second experiment diets with glucose or fructose. In each experiment, one group of 5 rats was fed ad libitum and five other groups fed a 3-hour meal each day. After 36 days, one group of the meal-fed rats was killed when the meal was due, and the other groups at intervals after the beginning of the meal. The group fed ad libitum was killed the next day after 21 h fasting. Meal feeding led to a smaller food intake and a smaller gain in weight, and a lower blood concentration of triacylglycerol. The diets with sucrose or fructose produced heavier livers and kidneys than did those with starch or glucose. The consumption of the meal led also to a temporary increase in the weight of the liver. The weight of the kidney, however, did not change in rats given starch or gluocse, but fell in rats given sucrose or fructose. Meal consumption was also followed by an increase in the concentration of liver glycogen, irrespective of the nature of the dietary carbohydrate. The concentration of plasma fatty acids was affected differently by meals containing the different carbohydrates, the extremes being a continuing fall with starch and no change with fructose. The concentration of triacyglycerol was increased by sucrose or fructose after the presentation of the meal. The concentration of blood glucose rose and then fell when the meal contained starch or glucose, but fell and then rose when it contained sucrose, and especially when it contained fructose. The concentration of insulin in meal-fed rats receiving sucrose was higher than that of rats receiving starch, both before and after the meal. This difference was not seen in rats fed ad libitum. The results indicate that the effects of meal feeding, or of sucrose or fructose, are not additive.", "PMID": 440634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4917", "title": "The effects of dietary sucrose and streptozotocin-diabetes on blood and liver constituents.", "content": "The levels of ATP, ADP, AMP, inorganic phosphate and 2,3-DPG have been determined in blood and liver of normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats maintained for up to 11 months on a diet in which the sole carbohydrate source was either starch or sucrose. The feeding of sucrose to normal rats did not significantly alter the adenine nucleotide or phosphate content of the liver and blood. The diabetic state caused a reduction in the ATP, and an increase in AMP and phosphate content of the liver. The feeding of sucrose to the diabetic animals increased the blood phosphate level. The erythrocyte 2,3-DPG content was unaffected by the alterations of ATP and phosphate levels or by the diabetes.", "contents": "The effects of dietary sucrose and streptozotocin-diabetes on blood and liver constituents. The levels of ATP, ADP, AMP, inorganic phosphate and 2,3-DPG have been determined in blood and liver of normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats maintained for up to 11 months on a diet in which the sole carbohydrate source was either starch or sucrose. The feeding of sucrose to normal rats did not significantly alter the adenine nucleotide or phosphate content of the liver and blood. The diabetic state caused a reduction in the ATP, and an increase in AMP and phosphate content of the liver. The feeding of sucrose to the diabetic animals increased the blood phosphate level. The erythrocyte 2,3-DPG content was unaffected by the alterations of ATP and phosphate levels or by the diabetes.", "PMID": 440635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4918", "title": "Nutritional properties of poppyseed oil relative to some other oils.", "content": "Male Wistar rats were fed a purified basal diet with 20% lard and corn oil (3:1), sunflower oil, poppyseed oil, low-erucic rapeseed oil from Brassica napus, cultivar Tower, or mixtures of these oils, for 1 or 26 weeks. None of the hearts exhibited lipidosis at 1 week. At 26 weeks, the level of serum triglycerides was higher in rats fed the mixture of lard and corn oil than in those fed only vegetable oil, and the incidence of cardiac necrosis and fibrosis was higher in rats fed the rapeseed oil than in the other animals. Cardiac phospholipids in rats fed the rapeseed oil contained an elevated level of omega 3 docosahexaenoic acid, particularly in phosphatidylethanolamine. Poppyseed oil exhibited properties similar to those of sunflower oil, was absorbed as well as olive oil, and appeared to be a promising oil for human consumption.", "contents": "Nutritional properties of poppyseed oil relative to some other oils. Male Wistar rats were fed a purified basal diet with 20% lard and corn oil (3:1), sunflower oil, poppyseed oil, low-erucic rapeseed oil from Brassica napus, cultivar Tower, or mixtures of these oils, for 1 or 26 weeks. None of the hearts exhibited lipidosis at 1 week. At 26 weeks, the level of serum triglycerides was higher in rats fed the mixture of lard and corn oil than in those fed only vegetable oil, and the incidence of cardiac necrosis and fibrosis was higher in rats fed the rapeseed oil than in the other animals. Cardiac phospholipids in rats fed the rapeseed oil contained an elevated level of omega 3 docosahexaenoic acid, particularly in phosphatidylethanolamine. Poppyseed oil exhibited properties similar to those of sunflower oil, was absorbed as well as olive oil, and appeared to be a promising oil for human consumption.", "PMID": 440636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4919", "title": "Exercise management.", "content": "Aerobic exercise is receiving increasing emphasis as an important health promoting behavior. This paper provides a model for assessment and management of the healthy exercising adult. A data base is presented that enables the practitioner to determine the presence of risk factors and/or disease, to identify health problems which might modify exercise prescription and to collect information to individualize the prescription. The remainder of the paper details the elements of exercise prescription with a specific focus on patient education.", "contents": "Exercise management. Aerobic exercise is receiving increasing emphasis as an important health promoting behavior. This paper provides a model for assessment and management of the healthy exercising adult. A data base is presented that enables the practitioner to determine the presence of risk factors and/or disease, to identify health problems which might modify exercise prescription and to collect information to individualize the prescription. The remainder of the paper details the elements of exercise prescription with a specific focus on patient education.", "PMID": 440638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4920", "title": "The pathology of female genital tuberculosis. A 31-year study of 1436 cases.", "content": "The pathology of 1436 cases of female genital tuberculosis (FGTB) observed from 1946 to 1977 is reviewed. The frequency of FGTB was highest in 1956, when it represented 5.5% of all gynecologic pathology specimens. The incidence declined in 1964 as a result of a nationwide antituberculosis campaign, falling to 0.27% in 1977. Sixty-six percent of the patients were 25-35 years of age, and 11% were postmenopausal. All patients presented with either primary (94%) or secondary (6%) infertility. The percentages of involvement of the different parts of the genital tract were: fallopian tubes 100%, endometrium 79%, cervix 24%, vulva and vagina 0.07%, and ovaries 11%. The clinicopathologic and diagnostic criteria of FGTB in the different regions are described, and special attention is paid to the effects of specific treatment on the tuberculous lesion.", "contents": "The pathology of female genital tuberculosis. A 31-year study of 1436 cases. The pathology of 1436 cases of female genital tuberculosis (FGTB) observed from 1946 to 1977 is reviewed. The frequency of FGTB was highest in 1956, when it represented 5.5% of all gynecologic pathology specimens. The incidence declined in 1964 as a result of a nationwide antituberculosis campaign, falling to 0.27% in 1977. Sixty-six percent of the patients were 25-35 years of age, and 11% were postmenopausal. All patients presented with either primary (94%) or secondary (6%) infertility. The percentages of involvement of the different parts of the genital tract were: fallopian tubes 100%, endometrium 79%, cervix 24%, vulva and vagina 0.07%, and ovaries 11%. The clinicopathologic and diagnostic criteria of FGTB in the different regions are described, and special attention is paid to the effects of specific treatment on the tuberculous lesion.", "PMID": 440643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4921", "title": "The occasional need for myomectomy.", "content": "Only occasionally is there a good indication for either abdominal myomectomy or vaginal myomectomy. Among 3205 patients who had major gynecologic operations, 1022 had leiomyofibromas; 718 needed abdominal hysterectomy, 253 needed vaginal hysterectomy, and only 51 were treated by myomectomy. Vaginal myomas and a few submucous uterine myomas were excised vaginally. Parasitic myomas and a few intramural myomas were excised abdominally. Indications, symptoms, number, size, tissue characteristics, methods, subsequent fertility, and subsequent pelvic operations are all discussed. In 26 of these patients, myomas were discovered during other conservative gynecologic operations, requiring decision-making during operations; criteria are discussed.", "contents": "The occasional need for myomectomy. Only occasionally is there a good indication for either abdominal myomectomy or vaginal myomectomy. Among 3205 patients who had major gynecologic operations, 1022 had leiomyofibromas; 718 needed abdominal hysterectomy, 253 needed vaginal hysterectomy, and only 51 were treated by myomectomy. Vaginal myomas and a few submucous uterine myomas were excised vaginally. Parasitic myomas and a few intramural myomas were excised abdominally. Indications, symptoms, number, size, tissue characteristics, methods, subsequent fertility, and subsequent pelvic operations are all discussed. In 26 of these patients, myomas were discovered during other conservative gynecologic operations, requiring decision-making during operations; criteria are discussed.", "PMID": 440644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4922", "title": "The role of ultrasonography in the management of endometritis/salpingitis/peritonitis.", "content": "Ultrasonography has been used as an adjunct in managing pelvic infections when culdocentesis is contraindicated. Twenty-three of 42 women presenting with endometritis/salpingitis/peritonitis (ESP) had ultrasonographic masses. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell count (WBC), and the highest temperature in the first 24 hours failed to distinguish those with sonographic masses from 19 patients without pelvic masses. The clinical parameter that tended to distinguish patients with masses versus no masses occurred in individuals who had an IUD at the time of admission. If a patient had an ESR greater than 65 mm/hr and an IUD, sonography demonstrated a mass in 71.4% of the cases. The clinical response to multidrug therapy (bactericidal-bacteriostatic, bactericidal-bactericidal, and triple-drug therapy) were comparable in the patient populations with or without a sonographic mass. Sonography is of little use in the acute phase of ESP. It is best reserved for those patients who do not respond to adequate antibiotic therapy and for the serial evaluation of a large tubo-ovarian complex when conservative management is indicated.", "contents": "The role of ultrasonography in the management of endometritis/salpingitis/peritonitis. Ultrasonography has been used as an adjunct in managing pelvic infections when culdocentesis is contraindicated. Twenty-three of 42 women presenting with endometritis/salpingitis/peritonitis (ESP) had ultrasonographic masses. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell count (WBC), and the highest temperature in the first 24 hours failed to distinguish those with sonographic masses from 19 patients without pelvic masses. The clinical parameter that tended to distinguish patients with masses versus no masses occurred in individuals who had an IUD at the time of admission. If a patient had an ESR greater than 65 mm/hr and an IUD, sonography demonstrated a mass in 71.4% of the cases. The clinical response to multidrug therapy (bactericidal-bacteriostatic, bactericidal-bactericidal, and triple-drug therapy) were comparable in the patient populations with or without a sonographic mass. Sonography is of little use in the acute phase of ESP. It is best reserved for those patients who do not respond to adequate antibiotic therapy and for the serial evaluation of a large tubo-ovarian complex when conservative management is indicated.", "PMID": 440645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4923", "title": "Neurological assessment of the hemiplegic patient.", "content": "There are more and more situations where nursing is responsible for ongoing assessment of the functioning of the hemiplegic patient who has been discharged from an acute care setting. The goal of the neurological assessment in the primary care setting is to determine the ability of the hemiplegic patient to perform activities of daily living. The objectives of this paper are to: 1) suggest a guideline for neurological examination of the hemiplegic patient in seven functional areas. The purpose is not to describe the total neurological examination, but rather to focus on the examination of pertinent neurological areas that provide data about the functioning of the patient; 2) outline potential problems derived from pertinent neurological findings in these seven areas; 3) discuss general implications these problems have for the nurse to assist the hemiplegic patient and his family, optimizing his potential. No attempt will be made to discuss details of nursing intervention.", "contents": "Neurological assessment of the hemiplegic patient. There are more and more situations where nursing is responsible for ongoing assessment of the functioning of the hemiplegic patient who has been discharged from an acute care setting. The goal of the neurological assessment in the primary care setting is to determine the ability of the hemiplegic patient to perform activities of daily living. The objectives of this paper are to: 1) suggest a guideline for neurological examination of the hemiplegic patient in seven functional areas. The purpose is not to describe the total neurological examination, but rather to focus on the examination of pertinent neurological areas that provide data about the functioning of the patient; 2) outline potential problems derived from pertinent neurological findings in these seven areas; 3) discuss general implications these problems have for the nurse to assist the hemiplegic patient and his family, optimizing his potential. No attempt will be made to discuss details of nursing intervention.", "PMID": 440640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4924", "title": "Surgical complications and results of modified Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure for urinary incontinence.", "content": "At the Mayo Clinic from January 1960 through December 1975, 673 patients underwent a modification of the Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz operation as a primary or secondary procedure for recurrent stress incontinence. There were 96 patients (14%) lost to follow-up, and 28 patients have died; 549 patients have been followed for 2-16 years. Of the 549 patients, 227 underwent the procedure as a primary operative effort; 91% of these were cured or much improved from socially disabling stress urinary incontinence, 7% were unchanged, and 2% became worse. There were 322 patients who underwent surgery for persistent or recurrent stress incontinence. This group had had a total of 740 previous unsuccessful operations (an average of 2.3 per patient) specifically for stress incontinence; 90% of these patients were cured or much improved, 5.3% were unchanged, and 4.7% became worse. The Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz operation is an effective and safe procedure associated with minimal morbidity and no mortality.", "contents": "Surgical complications and results of modified Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure for urinary incontinence. At the Mayo Clinic from January 1960 through December 1975, 673 patients underwent a modification of the Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz operation as a primary or secondary procedure for recurrent stress incontinence. There were 96 patients (14%) lost to follow-up, and 28 patients have died; 549 patients have been followed for 2-16 years. Of the 549 patients, 227 underwent the procedure as a primary operative effort; 91% of these were cured or much improved from socially disabling stress urinary incontinence, 7% were unchanged, and 2% became worse. There were 322 patients who underwent surgery for persistent or recurrent stress incontinence. This group had had a total of 740 previous unsuccessful operations (an average of 2.3 per patient) specifically for stress incontinence; 90% of these patients were cured or much improved, 5.3% were unchanged, and 4.7% became worse. The Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz operation is an effective and safe procedure associated with minimal morbidity and no mortality.", "PMID": 440646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4925", "title": "Skeletal muscle adaptations to growth and exercise.", "content": "Because of the structure of the body, humans are able to carry out a wide variety of different physical activities. This versatility is due primarily to the efficiency and design of the muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems. The skeletal muscles are the focal point of movement, and are designed to adapt during growth to fit the changing skeletal size, to hypertrophy as a result of overload to more easily handle a task, and to increase oxidative capacity as a result of endurance work so that a person can resist fatigue for increasing periods of time. The purpose of this article is to review these processes of adaptation.", "contents": "Skeletal muscle adaptations to growth and exercise. Because of the structure of the body, humans are able to carry out a wide variety of different physical activities. This versatility is due primarily to the efficiency and design of the muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems. The skeletal muscles are the focal point of movement, and are designed to adapt during growth to fit the changing skeletal size, to hypertrophy as a result of overload to more easily handle a task, and to increase oxidative capacity as a result of endurance work so that a person can resist fatigue for increasing periods of time. The purpose of this article is to review these processes of adaptation.", "PMID": 440641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4926", "title": "Smooth muscle within ovarian decidual nodules: a link to leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata?", "content": "Evidence is presented for the coexistence of smooth muscle and decidual cells in nodules on and within the ovarian tunica albuginea at term. Routine histologic techniques and electron microscopy have been employed in characterizing the morphology of the nodules. Recent literature concerning the frequency of ovarian decidualization during pregnancy is discussed with respect to the possible relationship of such decidualization to the histogenesis of leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD). The hypothesis that LPD may represent \"disseminated fibrosing decidua\" is discussed in light of finding collagen fibrils, secretory decidual cells, and smooth muscle cells in these nodules. It is concluded that the present case does not represent \"fibrosing decidua.\" The authors agree with others who have proposed that the smooth muscle in ovarian decidua and LPD result from proliferation of stem cells which may reside in the subperitoneal stroma in association with ectopic endometrial stroma and which may respond to the hormones of pregnancy.", "contents": "Smooth muscle within ovarian decidual nodules: a link to leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata? Evidence is presented for the coexistence of smooth muscle and decidual cells in nodules on and within the ovarian tunica albuginea at term. Routine histologic techniques and electron microscopy have been employed in characterizing the morphology of the nodules. Recent literature concerning the frequency of ovarian decidualization during pregnancy is discussed with respect to the possible relationship of such decidualization to the histogenesis of leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD). The hypothesis that LPD may represent \"disseminated fibrosing decidua\" is discussed in light of finding collagen fibrils, secretory decidual cells, and smooth muscle cells in these nodules. It is concluded that the present case does not represent \"fibrosing decidua.\" The authors agree with others who have proposed that the smooth muscle in ovarian decidua and LPD result from proliferation of stem cells which may reside in the subperitoneal stroma in association with ectopic endometrial stroma and which may respond to the hormones of pregnancy.", "PMID": 440647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4927", "title": "Ovarian hilus cell heterotopia.", "content": "A systematic pathologic study was done of the paratubal and parametrial tissues, submitted along with distal tubal segments excised for sterilization and with uteri (with or without attached adnexa) removed for common gynecologic conditions. Heterotopic ovarian hilus cell rests were noted in 12 cases, giving an overall incidence of 0.52% (12/2299). These cell rests, confined exclusively to the endosalpinx and perisalpinx, were easily differentiated from pregnancy-related decidual nodules, Walthard rests, foci of paratubal endometriosis, and ectopic adrenal rests.", "contents": "Ovarian hilus cell heterotopia. A systematic pathologic study was done of the paratubal and parametrial tissues, submitted along with distal tubal segments excised for sterilization and with uteri (with or without attached adnexa) removed for common gynecologic conditions. Heterotopic ovarian hilus cell rests were noted in 12 cases, giving an overall incidence of 0.52% (12/2299). These cell rests, confined exclusively to the endosalpinx and perisalpinx, were easily differentiated from pregnancy-related decidual nodules, Walthard rests, foci of paratubal endometriosis, and ectopic adrenal rests.", "PMID": 440648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4928", "title": "Invasive cancer of the cervix after cryosurgery. Pitfalls of conservative management.", "content": "Eight cases of invasive cervical carcinoma detected after cryotherapy for presumably noninvasive cervical lesions are reported. Three of these patients died from their disease less than 2 years following definitive therapy. The potential dangers of a less-than-optimal work-up of patients prior to freezing are analyzed and discussed in detail. Possible explanations for failures of cryotherapy are discussed, and guidelines for prevention of failures are presented.", "contents": "Invasive cancer of the cervix after cryosurgery. Pitfalls of conservative management. Eight cases of invasive cervical carcinoma detected after cryotherapy for presumably noninvasive cervical lesions are reported. Three of these patients died from their disease less than 2 years following definitive therapy. The potential dangers of a less-than-optimal work-up of patients prior to freezing are analyzed and discussed in detail. Possible explanations for failures of cryotherapy are discussed, and guidelines for prevention of failures are presented.", "PMID": 440649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4929", "title": "Mesonephroid carcinoma of the ovary. A clinicopathologic, histochemical, and electron microscopic study.", "content": "Eighteen patients with mesonephroid ovarian carcinoma were investigated. Typical findings for the mesonephroid tumors were abundant extracellular an some intracellular neutral mucin mixed with sulfate and carboxyl groups, and large amounts of glycogen, especially in clear cells. The latter observation is considered to be an important aid in distinguishing them from other epithelial ovarian carcinomas. Some cells contained intracellular cysts that were covered with stubby microvilli similar to those found on the lumenal surfaces of the larger cysts in the tumors. Simultaneous estrogenic endometrial activity in the post-menopausal patients was frequently observed. The significance of this observation is discussed.", "contents": "Mesonephroid carcinoma of the ovary. A clinicopathologic, histochemical, and electron microscopic study. Eighteen patients with mesonephroid ovarian carcinoma were investigated. Typical findings for the mesonephroid tumors were abundant extracellular an some intracellular neutral mucin mixed with sulfate and carboxyl groups, and large amounts of glycogen, especially in clear cells. The latter observation is considered to be an important aid in distinguishing them from other epithelial ovarian carcinomas. Some cells contained intracellular cysts that were covered with stubby microvilli similar to those found on the lumenal surfaces of the larger cysts in the tumors. Simultaneous estrogenic endometrial activity in the post-menopausal patients was frequently observed. The significance of this observation is discussed.", "PMID": 440650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4930", "title": "The prognostic value of serum immunosuppressive effect in patients with ovarian cancer.", "content": "Sixteen patients who underwent surgery and postoperative chemotherapy for carcinoma of the ovary were studied. Eleven survived more than 18 months without evidence of recurrence, and 5 died more than 5 months after surgery. Serial determinations were made preoperatively and postoperatively of the immunosuppressive effect of the serums of these patients on the response of normal lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin stimulation. These determinations were plotted for each patient; the shapes of the curves for patients who survived are markedly different from those of patients who died. The prognostic value of these findings is discussed.", "contents": "The prognostic value of serum immunosuppressive effect in patients with ovarian cancer. Sixteen patients who underwent surgery and postoperative chemotherapy for carcinoma of the ovary were studied. Eleven survived more than 18 months without evidence of recurrence, and 5 died more than 5 months after surgery. Serial determinations were made preoperatively and postoperatively of the immunosuppressive effect of the serums of these patients on the response of normal lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin stimulation. These determinations were plotted for each patient; the shapes of the curves for patients who survived are markedly different from those of patients who died. The prognostic value of these findings is discussed.", "PMID": 440651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4931", "title": "Management of abnormal Papanicolaou smears in pregnancy.", "content": "All pregnant patients with abnormal cervical cytologic smears were evaluated as outpatients in the colposcopy clinic. Of the 131 patients, 84% had colposcopically directed biosies. Initial biopsy diagnosis of severe dysplasia/carcinoma in situ was noted in 16% of patients with class II smears and 43% of patients with class III smears. Two patients underwent conization and 2 had modified conizations because they failed to meet our criteria for adequate colposcopic evaluation. Of the 110 patients available for postpartum follow-up, all had either the same or a lesser degree of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Invasive carcinoma was not detected in any patient who underwent subsequent hysterectomy or conization. No abortions or premature labors could be directly attributed to the procedure.", "contents": "Management of abnormal Papanicolaou smears in pregnancy. All pregnant patients with abnormal cervical cytologic smears were evaluated as outpatients in the colposcopy clinic. Of the 131 patients, 84% had colposcopically directed biosies. Initial biopsy diagnosis of severe dysplasia/carcinoma in situ was noted in 16% of patients with class II smears and 43% of patients with class III smears. Two patients underwent conization and 2 had modified conizations because they failed to meet our criteria for adequate colposcopic evaluation. Of the 110 patients available for postpartum follow-up, all had either the same or a lesser degree of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Invasive carcinoma was not detected in any patient who underwent subsequent hysterectomy or conization. No abortions or premature labors could be directly attributed to the procedure.", "PMID": 440652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4932", "title": "Glucose intolerance during pregnancy. II. A comparative study of diagnostic screening methods.", "content": "The present study was designed to compare the relative validity of the 2-hour postprandial glucose test (2hpp) and the rapid intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) as predictors of the outcome of pregnancy. Both tests were performed at the onset of the third trimester of pregnancy in each of 77 women who constituted a selected group of patients considered to be at high risk of developing gestational diabetes. Data concerning newborns were recorded in each case. The IVGTT was found to give a significantly larger yield of positive results (44.15%) as compared to the 2hpp test (35.06%). Furthermore, significantly heavier babies and higher rates of perinatal morbidity were noted in those cases with abnormal IVGTT results as compared to those with normal values. No such association was seen in those cases with abnormal values of 2hpp. These results suggest that the rapid IVGTT is a more dependable test than a single postprandial blood glucose estimation in screening pregnant women for gestational diabetes.", "contents": "Glucose intolerance during pregnancy. II. A comparative study of diagnostic screening methods. The present study was designed to compare the relative validity of the 2-hour postprandial glucose test (2hpp) and the rapid intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) as predictors of the outcome of pregnancy. Both tests were performed at the onset of the third trimester of pregnancy in each of 77 women who constituted a selected group of patients considered to be at high risk of developing gestational diabetes. Data concerning newborns were recorded in each case. The IVGTT was found to give a significantly larger yield of positive results (44.15%) as compared to the 2hpp test (35.06%). Furthermore, significantly heavier babies and higher rates of perinatal morbidity were noted in those cases with abnormal IVGTT results as compared to those with normal values. No such association was seen in those cases with abnormal values of 2hpp. These results suggest that the rapid IVGTT is a more dependable test than a single postprandial blood glucose estimation in screening pregnant women for gestational diabetes.", "PMID": 440654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4933", "title": "The use of ultrasound in multiple gestations.", "content": "A retrospective study of 20 multiple pregnancies and a prospective study of 13 multiple pregnancies were done to determine the accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis and dating of multiple pregnancy and in predicting intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). The diagnosis of 1 multiple pregnancy in our study was missed. In another case triplets were erroneously diagnosed as a twin gestation. Fetal biparietal diameter correlates well with gestational age, particularly when the characteristic growth pattern of twins is taken into account. Ultrasound was noted to be of only limited use in antenatal diagnosis of IUGR, with a significant number of false positives and false negatives noted.", "contents": "The use of ultrasound in multiple gestations. A retrospective study of 20 multiple pregnancies and a prospective study of 13 multiple pregnancies were done to determine the accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis and dating of multiple pregnancy and in predicting intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). The diagnosis of 1 multiple pregnancy in our study was missed. In another case triplets were erroneously diagnosed as a twin gestation. Fetal biparietal diameter correlates well with gestational age, particularly when the characteristic growth pattern of twins is taken into account. Ultrasound was noted to be of only limited use in antenatal diagnosis of IUGR, with a significant number of false positives and false negatives noted.", "PMID": 440655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4934", "title": "Urologic and obstetric significance of urinary calculi in pregnancy.", "content": "Thirteen patients whose pregnancies were complicated by urinary calculi are presented. Difficulties of diagnosis and treatment with reference to obstetric outcome were assessed. In this series the evidence shows that diagnosis with a high index of suspicion is not difficult. There are apparently no ill effects on the pregnancy from the calculus nor from any necessary surgical management.", "contents": "Urologic and obstetric significance of urinary calculi in pregnancy. Thirteen patients whose pregnancies were complicated by urinary calculi are presented. Difficulties of diagnosis and treatment with reference to obstetric outcome were assessed. In this series the evidence shows that diagnosis with a high index of suspicion is not difficult. There are apparently no ill effects on the pregnancy from the calculus nor from any necessary surgical management.", "PMID": 440656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4935", "title": "The fetal right to live.", "content": "There is an ethical and legal problem for obstetricians when a pregnant patient, before or during labor, is notified by her physician that the fetus is in danger of dying and in need of surgical intervention, and she does not accept this advice. Such a case may occur for various reasons. This report attempts to address the issue of the fetus' right to life and the legal aspects thereof according to the laws of different countries. We accept the fact that the fetus has a legal right to live and the parents are the natural guardians. If the child is capable of being born alive and the patient does not consent to being subjected to a given treatment directed to save the fetus, the doctor must be legally entitled to warn the patient that she is committing a felony.", "contents": "The fetal right to live. There is an ethical and legal problem for obstetricians when a pregnant patient, before or during labor, is notified by her physician that the fetus is in danger of dying and in need of surgical intervention, and she does not accept this advice. Such a case may occur for various reasons. This report attempts to address the issue of the fetus' right to life and the legal aspects thereof according to the laws of different countries. We accept the fact that the fetus has a legal right to live and the parents are the natural guardians. If the child is capable of being born alive and the patient does not consent to being subjected to a given treatment directed to save the fetus, the doctor must be legally entitled to warn the patient that she is committing a felony.", "PMID": 440657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4936", "title": "Xerox telecopier transmission of fetal monitor tracings: a 4-year experience.", "content": "A telephone consultation system using the Xerox 400 Telecopier has been established to transmit fetal monitor data to a tertiary center from regional hospitals with limited experience in interpreting this data. This report reviews a 4-year experience with this consultative device, discusses both the advantages and disadvantages of such a program, and recommends the establishment of similar services in other tertiary centers. We believe that the establishment of such services can be of diagnostic and therapeutic benefit to inexperienced medical personnel when first confronted with the concept of fetal monitoring. Hopefully, by so doing, hospital use of fetal monitoring will increase.", "contents": "Xerox telecopier transmission of fetal monitor tracings: a 4-year experience. A telephone consultation system using the Xerox 400 Telecopier has been established to transmit fetal monitor data to a tertiary center from regional hospitals with limited experience in interpreting this data. This report reviews a 4-year experience with this consultative device, discusses both the advantages and disadvantages of such a program, and recommends the establishment of similar services in other tertiary centers. We believe that the establishment of such services can be of diagnostic and therapeutic benefit to inexperienced medical personnel when first confronted with the concept of fetal monitoring. Hopefully, by so doing, hospital use of fetal monitoring will increase.", "PMID": 440659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4937", "title": "Use of a high-frequency aspiration-biopsy transducer for direct ultrasound-guided amniocentesis.", "content": "The techniques and applications of amniocentesis performed with a new high-frequency aspiration-biopsy transducer are described in detail. The advantages of this technique are greatest in third-trimester patients where active fetal motion and diminished amniotic fluid volumes make unguided punctures difficult or impossible. The ability to visualize small-caliber needles within the fluid space further enhances the effectiveness of this technique.", "contents": "Use of a high-frequency aspiration-biopsy transducer for direct ultrasound-guided amniocentesis. The techniques and applications of amniocentesis performed with a new high-frequency aspiration-biopsy transducer are described in detail. The advantages of this technique are greatest in third-trimester patients where active fetal motion and diminished amniotic fluid volumes make unguided punctures difficult or impossible. The ability to visualize small-caliber needles within the fluid space further enhances the effectiveness of this technique.", "PMID": 440660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4938", "title": "Fetal heart patterns. A study of the anencephalic fetus.", "content": "The anencephalic fetus is an interesting model for the study of the fetal heart rate (FHR). Such a fetus could serve as a model for the examination of the effect of \"intracranial\" pressure on the FHR, because its central nervous system (CNS) is directly exposed to intraamniotic pressure changes. The FHR was monitored in 10 anencephalic fetuses of normal, uncomplicated pregnancies and of gestational age between 35 and 42 weeks. Silent-pattern heart rate was observed in 6 of the monitored anencephalic fetuses. No other consistent heart rate pattern was obtained. A relatively high incidence of extreme early decelerations may be attributed to the exposure of the fetal CNS to direct pressure.", "contents": "Fetal heart patterns. A study of the anencephalic fetus. The anencephalic fetus is an interesting model for the study of the fetal heart rate (FHR). Such a fetus could serve as a model for the examination of the effect of \"intracranial\" pressure on the FHR, because its central nervous system (CNS) is directly exposed to intraamniotic pressure changes. The FHR was monitored in 10 anencephalic fetuses of normal, uncomplicated pregnancies and of gestational age between 35 and 42 weeks. Silent-pattern heart rate was observed in 6 of the monitored anencephalic fetuses. No other consistent heart rate pattern was obtained. A relatively high incidence of extreme early decelerations may be attributed to the exposure of the fetal CNS to direct pressure.", "PMID": 440661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4939", "title": "The bacterial pathogenesis of infection following cesarean section.", "content": "To further define the bacterial pathogenesis of infections following cesarean section, amnionic fluid was obtained transabdominally at the time of surgery from 56 women whose membranes were ruptured for more than 6 hours. In all specimens, bacterial growth was demonstrated, and 53 of these women developed postoperative myometritis. A mean of 2.5 pathogenic bacteria was isolated from each specimen. More than 90% of the amnionic fluid specimens had polymicrobial anaerobic/aerobic growth (63%) or anaerobes only (30%). Aerobic and anaerobic streptococci accounted for 72% of all bacterial isolates; Bacteroides and Escherichia coli were the next most commonly recovered species. In women treated for myometritis and who subsequently developed a wound or pelvic abscess, cultures from these wounds or abscesses were positive for 1-3 organisms present in amnionic fluid. These data indicate that ascending colonization of flora from the lower genital tract and inoculation into surgically traumatized tissues usually result in polymicrobial pelvic infection with a predominance of anaerobic pathogens. Moreover, abscess development in these women is probably associated with organisms identified in amnionic fluid. Bacterial isolates from these women are remarkably similar to those from women with other pelvic infections.", "contents": "The bacterial pathogenesis of infection following cesarean section. To further define the bacterial pathogenesis of infections following cesarean section, amnionic fluid was obtained transabdominally at the time of surgery from 56 women whose membranes were ruptured for more than 6 hours. In all specimens, bacterial growth was demonstrated, and 53 of these women developed postoperative myometritis. A mean of 2.5 pathogenic bacteria was isolated from each specimen. More than 90% of the amnionic fluid specimens had polymicrobial anaerobic/aerobic growth (63%) or anaerobes only (30%). Aerobic and anaerobic streptococci accounted for 72% of all bacterial isolates; Bacteroides and Escherichia coli were the next most commonly recovered species. In women treated for myometritis and who subsequently developed a wound or pelvic abscess, cultures from these wounds or abscesses were positive for 1-3 organisms present in amnionic fluid. These data indicate that ascending colonization of flora from the lower genital tract and inoculation into surgically traumatized tissues usually result in polymicrobial pelvic infection with a predominance of anaerobic pathogens. Moreover, abscess development in these women is probably associated with organisms identified in amnionic fluid. Bacterial isolates from these women are remarkably similar to those from women with other pelvic infections.", "PMID": 440664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4940", "title": "Patterns of bacterial colonization of human milk.", "content": "Bacterial studies on breast milk collected by an electric suction pump from 44 postpartum mothers were conducted. All samples had bacterial growth, while 84% had organisms identical to those cultured from the mother's nipple. Colony counts varied greatly, with a median of 8700 and mean of nearly 20,000. In 30% of the milk samples, potentially pathogenic organisms were recovered. The significance of these results and collection techniques that might modify these results are discussed.", "contents": "Patterns of bacterial colonization of human milk. Bacterial studies on breast milk collected by an electric suction pump from 44 postpartum mothers were conducted. All samples had bacterial growth, while 84% had organisms identical to those cultured from the mother's nipple. Colony counts varied greatly, with a median of 8700 and mean of nearly 20,000. In 30% of the milk samples, potentially pathogenic organisms were recovered. The significance of these results and collection techniques that might modify these results are discussed.", "PMID": 440665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4941", "title": "Relation of HVH-II to carcinoma of the cervix.", "content": "An animal model is described that demonstrates the development of varying degrees of basal cell hyperplasia, metaplasia, and dysplasia following cervicovaginal herpesvirus hominis type II (HVH-II) infection. Although the study spanned a period of 30 months, the equivalent of 60 human years, there was no evidence of anaplasia. These results are considered in relation to the role of HVH-II as an initiator in the multistep process leading to cervical carcinoma.", "contents": "Relation of HVH-II to carcinoma of the cervix. An animal model is described that demonstrates the development of varying degrees of basal cell hyperplasia, metaplasia, and dysplasia following cervicovaginal herpesvirus hominis type II (HVH-II) infection. Although the study spanned a period of 30 months, the equivalent of 60 human years, there was no evidence of anaplasia. These results are considered in relation to the role of HVH-II as an initiator in the multistep process leading to cervical carcinoma.", "PMID": 440666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4942", "title": "An ultrastructural comparison of human endometrial adenocarcinoma with normal postmenopausal endometrium.", "content": "Although electron microscopy has been of limited value in detecting malignant neoplasms, some neoplasms do exhibit characteristic ultrastructural features. Intensive study of these features may offer insight into the etiology and activity of such tumors. In an attempt to characterize the ultrastructure of endometrial adenocarcinoma, tissue was examined with the electron microscope and compared with normal postmenopausal endometrium. Endometria from biopsy, hysterectomy, or curettage were processed routinely for light and electron microscopy. Several ultrastructural features of the adenocarcinoma were common both to previous descriptions of endometrium of the postovulatory phase and to the normal postmenopausal endometrium, described here, viz, atypical mitochondrial forms and cell surface modifications. Ribosomes were abundant in adenocarcinoma of the endometrium, normal postmenopausal endometrium, and normal cyclic endometrium in the preovulatory phase.", "contents": "An ultrastructural comparison of human endometrial adenocarcinoma with normal postmenopausal endometrium. Although electron microscopy has been of limited value in detecting malignant neoplasms, some neoplasms do exhibit characteristic ultrastructural features. Intensive study of these features may offer insight into the etiology and activity of such tumors. In an attempt to characterize the ultrastructure of endometrial adenocarcinoma, tissue was examined with the electron microscope and compared with normal postmenopausal endometrium. Endometria from biopsy, hysterectomy, or curettage were processed routinely for light and electron microscopy. Several ultrastructural features of the adenocarcinoma were common both to previous descriptions of endometrium of the postovulatory phase and to the normal postmenopausal endometrium, described here, viz, atypical mitochondrial forms and cell surface modifications. Ribosomes were abundant in adenocarcinoma of the endometrium, normal postmenopausal endometrium, and normal cyclic endometrium in the preovulatory phase.", "PMID": 440667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4943", "title": "Histamine levels in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.", "content": "Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was produced in rabbits by administration of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Histamine levels in the animals' plasma were determined by an enzymatic-isotopic assay. The results of this study show that there is no statistically significant difference between histamine levels in ovarian hyperstimulated animals as compared with control animals. Furthermore, no differences in the number of mast cells in the ovaries could be demonstrated between the 2 groups. It is concluded that histamine probably does not play a role in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. The relevance of this suggestion to other proposed mechanisms on the etiology of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is discussed.", "contents": "Histamine levels in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was produced in rabbits by administration of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Histamine levels in the animals' plasma were determined by an enzymatic-isotopic assay. The results of this study show that there is no statistically significant difference between histamine levels in ovarian hyperstimulated animals as compared with control animals. Furthermore, no differences in the number of mast cells in the ovaries could be demonstrated between the 2 groups. It is concluded that histamine probably does not play a role in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. The relevance of this suggestion to other proposed mechanisms on the etiology of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is discussed.", "PMID": 440668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4944", "title": "Placental histopathology of midtrimester termination.", "content": "Placentas spontaneously passed after second-trimester terminations of pregnancy using either hypertonic sodium chloride or hyperosmolar urea plus prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) were examined to determine histologic characteristics. The placentas of hypertonic sodium chloride terminations demonstrated a type of \"coagulation necrosis\" that has been described previously, while placentas of pregnancies terminated by hyperosmolar urea plus PGF2alpha showed a similar pattern in about one half the cases but a histologic pattern of less severe damage in the remaining cases. The 2 groups showed no significant differences when characteristics such as injection-abortion interval or estimated hypertonicity of the fluid were examined.", "contents": "Placental histopathology of midtrimester termination. Placentas spontaneously passed after second-trimester terminations of pregnancy using either hypertonic sodium chloride or hyperosmolar urea plus prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) were examined to determine histologic characteristics. The placentas of hypertonic sodium chloride terminations demonstrated a type of \"coagulation necrosis\" that has been described previously, while placentas of pregnancies terminated by hyperosmolar urea plus PGF2alpha showed a similar pattern in about one half the cases but a histologic pattern of less severe damage in the remaining cases. The 2 groups showed no significant differences when characteristics such as injection-abortion interval or estimated hypertonicity of the fluid were examined.", "PMID": 440669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4945", "title": "Experience with midtrimester abortion.", "content": "The midtrimester abortion program at a large community hospital was evaluated. During the 3-year study, 1839 patients aborted in the midtrimester by intraamniotic injection of hypertonic saline, prostaglandin F2alpha or a combination of saline and prostaglandin F2alpha. The method, using a combination of saline and prostaglandin F2alpha together with intracervical laminaria, showed significant reduction in the number of failures (4.3 to 1.0%), reduction in the injection-abortion interval from 33.9 to 14.6 hours, shortening of the hospital stay from 2 1/2 to 1 1/3 days, minimum incidence of live abortions (0.9%), infrequent need for oxytocin to effect delivery (7.7%); and low rates of hemorrhage (1.5%) and fever (2.8%). The main disadvantage was an increased rate of incomplete abortions (32.3%), which could be reduced to 27% by patient selection.", "contents": "Experience with midtrimester abortion. The midtrimester abortion program at a large community hospital was evaluated. During the 3-year study, 1839 patients aborted in the midtrimester by intraamniotic injection of hypertonic saline, prostaglandin F2alpha or a combination of saline and prostaglandin F2alpha. The method, using a combination of saline and prostaglandin F2alpha together with intracervical laminaria, showed significant reduction in the number of failures (4.3 to 1.0%), reduction in the injection-abortion interval from 33.9 to 14.6 hours, shortening of the hospital stay from 2 1/2 to 1 1/3 days, minimum incidence of live abortions (0.9%), infrequent need for oxytocin to effect delivery (7.7%); and low rates of hemorrhage (1.5%) and fever (2.8%). The main disadvantage was an increased rate of incomplete abortions (32.3%), which could be reduced to 27% by patient selection.", "PMID": 440670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4946", "title": "Congenital annular constrictions and intrauterine amputations revisited.", "content": "The etiology of annular constrictions and/or intrauterine amputations is believed to be the result of an embryologic developmental defect or of a happenstance mechanical constriction. Evidence drawn from 3 infants and 1 fetus is used to evaluate the above theories. It is concluded that simple mechanical constriction is most likely not the etiology, and that a focal degenerative process is operative, which is consistent with the changes originally described by Streeter. In view of present embryologic concepts, this lesion is not a primary embryologic defect as postulated by Streeter, but a secondary superimposed disease process of unknown etiology.", "contents": "Congenital annular constrictions and intrauterine amputations revisited. The etiology of annular constrictions and/or intrauterine amputations is believed to be the result of an embryologic developmental defect or of a happenstance mechanical constriction. Evidence drawn from 3 infants and 1 fetus is used to evaluate the above theories. It is concluded that simple mechanical constriction is most likely not the etiology, and that a focal degenerative process is operative, which is consistent with the changes originally described by Streeter. In view of present embryologic concepts, this lesion is not a primary embryologic defect as postulated by Streeter, but a secondary superimposed disease process of unknown etiology.", "PMID": 440671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4947", "title": "Cell surface lipid in the amniotic fluid.", "content": "Limitations of cell staining and light microscopy have led to confusion as to the etiology and morphologic characteristics of nile-blue-sulfate-stained orange cells in amniotic fluid. Nomarski Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy (NDICM) was used to study these cells as they appear in their unstained state. The presence of lipid-bearing cells was correlated with gestational age and mode of delivery, and incubation studies were applied toward an evaluation of the mechanism of lipid formation. Lipid-bearing cells in the amniotic fluid appeared after 37 1/2 weeks' gestation in association with fetal lung maturity.", "contents": "Cell surface lipid in the amniotic fluid. Limitations of cell staining and light microscopy have led to confusion as to the etiology and morphologic characteristics of nile-blue-sulfate-stained orange cells in amniotic fluid. Nomarski Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy (NDICM) was used to study these cells as they appear in their unstained state. The presence of lipid-bearing cells was correlated with gestational age and mode of delivery, and incubation studies were applied toward an evaluation of the mechanism of lipid formation. Lipid-bearing cells in the amniotic fluid appeared after 37 1/2 weeks' gestation in association with fetal lung maturity.", "PMID": 440672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4948", "title": "Fetal and maternal copper levels in patients at term with and without premature rupture of membranes.", "content": "This study evaluated the relationship between serum copper levels and premature rupture of the membranes (PROM). Serum copper levels are significantly lower in fetuses and their mothers with PROM at term as compared with a control group without PROM. Birth weights of the newborns delivered following PROM are significantly lower than those in the control group despite similarity of gestational ages. The significance of these findings is discussed.", "contents": "Fetal and maternal copper levels in patients at term with and without premature rupture of membranes. This study evaluated the relationship between serum copper levels and premature rupture of the membranes (PROM). Serum copper levels are significantly lower in fetuses and their mothers with PROM at term as compared with a control group without PROM. Birth weights of the newborns delivered following PROM are significantly lower than those in the control group despite similarity of gestational ages. The significance of these findings is discussed.", "PMID": 440673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4949", "title": "Diagnosis of rupture of the fetal membranes by glucose and fructose measurements.", "content": "A new method is presented for differentiating amniotic fluid from cervical mucus, based on differences in the respective carbohydrate concentrations present in these fluids. Glucose and fructose are present in high concentrations in cervical mucus during pregnancy, average values being 240 and 30.4 mg/100 ml, respectively. Their concentrations in amniotic fluid, however, are low, averaging 39 and 3.3 mg/ml, respectively. Examination of 215 women between 36 and 42 weeks' gestation, using either glucose or fructose values, revealed a high degree of discrimination between amniotic fluid and cervical mucus. The best results, however, were obtained by employing the calculated linear sum 3.32 log glucose plus log fructose for each sample. Inaccuracy rates were low in comparison to those of other diagnostic methods, such as pH values, ferning, and Nile blue sulfate staining. A further advantage of the method is that it remains fairly accurate even when the time interval between rupture of the membranes and the investigation exceeds 24 hours.", "contents": "Diagnosis of rupture of the fetal membranes by glucose and fructose measurements. A new method is presented for differentiating amniotic fluid from cervical mucus, based on differences in the respective carbohydrate concentrations present in these fluids. Glucose and fructose are present in high concentrations in cervical mucus during pregnancy, average values being 240 and 30.4 mg/100 ml, respectively. Their concentrations in amniotic fluid, however, are low, averaging 39 and 3.3 mg/ml, respectively. Examination of 215 women between 36 and 42 weeks' gestation, using either glucose or fructose values, revealed a high degree of discrimination between amniotic fluid and cervical mucus. The best results, however, were obtained by employing the calculated linear sum 3.32 log glucose plus log fructose for each sample. Inaccuracy rates were low in comparison to those of other diagnostic methods, such as pH values, ferning, and Nile blue sulfate staining. A further advantage of the method is that it remains fairly accurate even when the time interval between rupture of the membranes and the investigation exceeds 24 hours.", "PMID": 440674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4950", "title": "Steroids in human myometrium and maternal and umbilical cord plasma before and during labor.", "content": "Concentrations of estrone, estradiol, and progesterone in the myometrium, maternal peripheral vein, and mixed umbilical cord plasma were determined before and during labor by radioimmunoassay. Of the 29 patients studied, 4 underwent elective abortions by hysterotomy in the second trimester of pregnancy, and 25 underwent cesarean section (elective or during labor). The concentration of umbilical cord cortisol in the latter group of patients was also determined. Advanced labor was characterized by a high concentration of estrone in the maternal peripheral vein, the umbilical cord, and the myometrium. Concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol in cord plasma also increased during labor. From the second trimester to term pregnancy, increases in the concentrations of estrone and estradiol in the myometrium were proportionately greater than those of progesterone. During labor, there were no significant changes in the myometrial concentrations of estrone, estradiol, or progesterone. During labor in term pregnancies, the myometrial concentration of estrone was higher than that of estradiol.", "contents": "Steroids in human myometrium and maternal and umbilical cord plasma before and during labor. Concentrations of estrone, estradiol, and progesterone in the myometrium, maternal peripheral vein, and mixed umbilical cord plasma were determined before and during labor by radioimmunoassay. Of the 29 patients studied, 4 underwent elective abortions by hysterotomy in the second trimester of pregnancy, and 25 underwent cesarean section (elective or during labor). The concentration of umbilical cord cortisol in the latter group of patients was also determined. Advanced labor was characterized by a high concentration of estrone in the maternal peripheral vein, the umbilical cord, and the myometrium. Concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol in cord plasma also increased during labor. From the second trimester to term pregnancy, increases in the concentrations of estrone and estradiol in the myometrium were proportionately greater than those of progesterone. During labor, there were no significant changes in the myometrial concentrations of estrone, estradiol, or progesterone. During labor in term pregnancies, the myometrial concentration of estrone was higher than that of estradiol.", "PMID": 440675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4951", "title": "Serum unconjugated estriol after intravenous cortisol administration in late pregnancy.", "content": "Serum unconjugated estriol levels were measured in 44 pregnant women treated with corticoids for the prevention of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. Intravenous administration of cortisol (1 g every 6 hours for 24 hours) decreased the level of circulating unconjugated estriol to 40% of the initial value after 6 hours and to 27% after 24 hours. During the 2 succeeding days, all the results remain below the pretreatment values. On the third day, the mean value is no longer different from the control value, but in some patients recovery takes more than 3 days.", "contents": "Serum unconjugated estriol after intravenous cortisol administration in late pregnancy. Serum unconjugated estriol levels were measured in 44 pregnant women treated with corticoids for the prevention of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. Intravenous administration of cortisol (1 g every 6 hours for 24 hours) decreased the level of circulating unconjugated estriol to 40% of the initial value after 6 hours and to 27% after 24 hours. During the 2 succeeding days, all the results remain below the pretreatment values. On the third day, the mean value is no longer different from the control value, but in some patients recovery takes more than 3 days.", "PMID": 440676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4952", "title": "Prolactin levels during labor.", "content": "To test the hypothesis that prolactin (PRL) plays a role in the hormonal events of labor, serum PRL levels in 15 normal secundigravidas were measured on 2 occasions 10-15 days before delivery, at the onset of labor, at cervical dilatation of 5 and 10 cm, at the time of delivery, and on the first, second, and fifth days postpartum. The mean level of PRL was 163 ng/ml +/- 26 ng/ml at the onset of cervical dilatation; it typically decreased with the progress of labor, reaching a value of 140 ng/ml +/- 21 ng/ml at the time of delivery. The differences during the various stages of labor, however, were not found to be statistically significant. Postpartum values were significantly lower (P less than 0.01) on the fifth day after parturition. It is therefore unlikely that PRL is involved in or influenced by the hormonal interplay that occurs during labor.", "contents": "Prolactin levels during labor. To test the hypothesis that prolactin (PRL) plays a role in the hormonal events of labor, serum PRL levels in 15 normal secundigravidas were measured on 2 occasions 10-15 days before delivery, at the onset of labor, at cervical dilatation of 5 and 10 cm, at the time of delivery, and on the first, second, and fifth days postpartum. The mean level of PRL was 163 ng/ml +/- 26 ng/ml at the onset of cervical dilatation; it typically decreased with the progress of labor, reaching a value of 140 ng/ml +/- 21 ng/ml at the time of delivery. The differences during the various stages of labor, however, were not found to be statistically significant. Postpartum values were significantly lower (P less than 0.01) on the fifth day after parturition. It is therefore unlikely that PRL is involved in or influenced by the hormonal interplay that occurs during labor.", "PMID": 440677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4953", "title": "The effect of a perinatal center on perinatal mortality.", "content": "The evolution of a perinatal center over the past 12 years was reviewed. Factors in obstetric practices, maternal morbidity, and perinatal mortality were evaluated. The reduction in conditions leading to uteroplacental insufficiency (toxemia, hypertension, high parity) has been the most significant result. This in turn has led to a decrease in deaths from abruption, asphyxia, and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The practice of referring high-risk mothers to a perinatal center for delivery can continue to reduce perinatal mortality significantly.", "contents": "The effect of a perinatal center on perinatal mortality. The evolution of a perinatal center over the past 12 years was reviewed. Factors in obstetric practices, maternal morbidity, and perinatal mortality were evaluated. The reduction in conditions leading to uteroplacental insufficiency (toxemia, hypertension, high parity) has been the most significant result. This in turn has led to a decrease in deaths from abruption, asphyxia, and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The practice of referring high-risk mothers to a perinatal center for delivery can continue to reduce perinatal mortality significantly.", "PMID": 440678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4954", "title": "Professional liability insurance in obstetrics-gynecology.", "content": "A geographically stratified sample of Fellows and Junior Fellows of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) responded to a questionnaire, describing the source, coverage, and cost of their professional liability insurance, and the effects this had on patterns of practice. Most physicians carry primary professional liability coverage, although 6% do not. The majority pay less than $8000/year for a wide variety of dollar coverages. Less than half of the surveyed obstetrician-gynecologists carry excess/umbrella liability insurance, and a majority pay less than $2000/year for this coverage. The liability problem has not had a substantial effect on restricting the number of obstetrician-gynecologists, but it has had a major effect on patterns of practice.", "contents": "Professional liability insurance in obstetrics-gynecology. A geographically stratified sample of Fellows and Junior Fellows of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) responded to a questionnaire, describing the source, coverage, and cost of their professional liability insurance, and the effects this had on patterns of practice. Most physicians carry primary professional liability coverage, although 6% do not. The majority pay less than $8000/year for a wide variety of dollar coverages. Less than half of the surveyed obstetrician-gynecologists carry excess/umbrella liability insurance, and a majority pay less than $2000/year for this coverage. The liability problem has not had a substantial effect on restricting the number of obstetrician-gynecologists, but it has had a major effect on patterns of practice.", "PMID": 440679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4955", "title": "Academic manpower for obstetrics and gynecology in the United States.", "content": "All 119 medical schools in the United States provided information for a study of academic manpower conducted by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO). The average number of full-time faculty members per medical school is 13.2, with 2 positions vacant per school. Subspecialists are concentrated in university medical school departments, which also have large residency programs. A perceived need for 46% more faculty over the next 5 years will probably aggravate the shortage.", "contents": "Academic manpower for obstetrics and gynecology in the United States. All 119 medical schools in the United States provided information for a study of academic manpower conducted by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO). The average number of full-time faculty members per medical school is 13.2, with 2 positions vacant per school. Subspecialists are concentrated in university medical school departments, which also have large residency programs. A perceived need for 46% more faculty over the next 5 years will probably aggravate the shortage.", "PMID": 440680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4956", "title": "Ultrasonography in the evaluation of intrauterine transfusion.", "content": "Numerous techniques have been described in the literature to aid the obstetrician in safely and easily performing an intrauterine transfusion. None, however, have addressed themselves to the question of whether the transfused cells actually enter the fetal peritoneal cavity. We have used gray-scale ultrasonography to evaluate this question in 4 patients who had undergone a total of 8 intrauterine transfusions. By scanning the fetal abdomen both before and after the transfusion, we were able to identify the transfused fluid within the fetal abdomen in all cases.", "contents": "Ultrasonography in the evaluation of intrauterine transfusion. Numerous techniques have been described in the literature to aid the obstetrician in safely and easily performing an intrauterine transfusion. None, however, have addressed themselves to the question of whether the transfused cells actually enter the fetal peritoneal cavity. We have used gray-scale ultrasonography to evaluate this question in 4 patients who had undergone a total of 8 intrauterine transfusions. By scanning the fetal abdomen both before and after the transfusion, we were able to identify the transfused fluid within the fetal abdomen in all cases.", "PMID": 440681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4957", "title": "Early prenatal diagnosis of soft-tissue malformations.", "content": "This study presents 3 cases of severe soft-tissue malformations of the fetus. Prenatal diagnosis was established early in the second trimester, and the accuracy of the diagnosis was confirmed by pathological examination in each instance. A clinically oriented work-up plan for early prenatal diagnosis is proposed.", "contents": "Early prenatal diagnosis of soft-tissue malformations. This study presents 3 cases of severe soft-tissue malformations of the fetus. Prenatal diagnosis was established early in the second trimester, and the accuracy of the diagnosis was confirmed by pathological examination in each instance. A clinically oriented work-up plan for early prenatal diagnosis is proposed.", "PMID": 440682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4958", "title": "[Prevention of retinal detachment].", "content": "The decision to prophylactically treat retinal lesions which could eventually lead to retinal detachment is often a delicate one. The author attempts to outline the principles of an attitude as reasonable as possible to limit the risks inherent in such a prophylactic treatment and to avoid its excessive use.", "contents": "[Prevention of retinal detachment]. The decision to prophylactically treat retinal lesions which could eventually lead to retinal detachment is often a delicate one. The author attempts to outline the principles of an attitude as reasonable as possible to limit the risks inherent in such a prophylactic treatment and to avoid its excessive use.", "PMID": 440696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4959", "title": "Transconjunctival buckling for retinal detachment.", "content": "A specially designed ring indentator for transconjunctival buckling of retinal detachments is described. The experience on the first 15 patients treated is reported.", "contents": "Transconjunctival buckling for retinal detachment. A specially designed ring indentator for transconjunctival buckling of retinal detachments is described. The experience on the first 15 patients treated is reported.", "PMID": 440697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4960", "title": "Simple glaucoma before the age of 30 years.", "content": "'Juvenile glaucoma' is a meaningless term which should not be used. Glaucoma in young subjects can be hydrophthalmus, secondary or simple glaucoma. In this paper, early simple glaucoma is described in 15 patients (8 males, 7 females) below the age of 30 years, starting in some subjects already at 8 years of age. Inheritance was dominant in 6 patients. Anticipation could be shown in 2 pedigrees through 4 and 5 generations, respectively. The course of the disease was severe in 8 patients, with intraocular pressures over 40 mm Hg and/or heavy functional loss. There were usually no subjective symptoms. The chamber angles were gonioscopically normal in all patients. Miotics were effective but did not normalize the intraocular pressure. Surgical treatment is discussed.", "contents": "Simple glaucoma before the age of 30 years. 'Juvenile glaucoma' is a meaningless term which should not be used. Glaucoma in young subjects can be hydrophthalmus, secondary or simple glaucoma. In this paper, early simple glaucoma is described in 15 patients (8 males, 7 females) below the age of 30 years, starting in some subjects already at 8 years of age. Inheritance was dominant in 6 patients. Anticipation could be shown in 2 pedigrees through 4 and 5 generations, respectively. The course of the disease was severe in 8 patients, with intraocular pressures over 40 mm Hg and/or heavy functional loss. There were usually no subjective symptoms. The chamber angles were gonioscopically normal in all patients. Miotics were effective but did not normalize the intraocular pressure. Surgical treatment is discussed.", "PMID": 440698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4961", "title": "Adult rabbit eye and orbital volumes after periodic intrabulbar injections of silicone.", "content": "The intent of this experiment was to determine whether periodic injections of silicone into the adult rabbit eye would alter the volume of the eye and/or orbit. This procedure in growing rabbits had resulted in increased volumes of both the eye and orbit. Nineteen 13-month-old (adult) rabbits were used. In 12 animals silicone was injected into one eye but not the opposite one. No silicone was injected into the eyes of 7 untreated rabbits. In a 9-week period the total amount of ten silicone injections into each treated eye ranged from 5.7 to 7.6 ml. 1 week after the last injection each eye was enucleated, an impression made immediately, and a permanent model subsequently developed. From this the volume was determined. A t test was performed on the mean differences of the eye and orbital volumes of the injected and noninjected sides for each group. No significant differences was found. It was concluded within the limitations of this experiment that there was no evidence that periodic intrabulbar injection of silicone into the adult rabbit eye altered its volume. Thus, this procedure also did not alter orbital volume. In contrast, in the growing rabbit both eye and orbital volume had increased significantly after intrabulbar injection of silicone.", "contents": "Adult rabbit eye and orbital volumes after periodic intrabulbar injections of silicone. The intent of this experiment was to determine whether periodic injections of silicone into the adult rabbit eye would alter the volume of the eye and/or orbit. This procedure in growing rabbits had resulted in increased volumes of both the eye and orbit. Nineteen 13-month-old (adult) rabbits were used. In 12 animals silicone was injected into one eye but not the opposite one. No silicone was injected into the eyes of 7 untreated rabbits. In a 9-week period the total amount of ten silicone injections into each treated eye ranged from 5.7 to 7.6 ml. 1 week after the last injection each eye was enucleated, an impression made immediately, and a permanent model subsequently developed. From this the volume was determined. A t test was performed on the mean differences of the eye and orbital volumes of the injected and noninjected sides for each group. No significant differences was found. It was concluded within the limitations of this experiment that there was no evidence that periodic intrabulbar injection of silicone into the adult rabbit eye altered its volume. Thus, this procedure also did not alter orbital volume. In contrast, in the growing rabbit both eye and orbital volume had increased significantly after intrabulbar injection of silicone.", "PMID": 440700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4962", "title": "[Encephalic Doppler ultrasonography in everyday ophthalmology].", "content": "Encephalic circulation has been studied by Doppler ultrasonography in a number of persons who complained of discreet visual troubles, transient alterations of the uni- or bilateral visual acuity, apparently isolated alterations of the visual fields, or organic or functional alterations of the retina. In a significant number of cases, the examination has shown cerebral vascular alterations--sometimes very severe--which warrant very careful medical supervision and the institution of a sustained vascular treatment.", "contents": "[Encephalic Doppler ultrasonography in everyday ophthalmology]. Encephalic circulation has been studied by Doppler ultrasonography in a number of persons who complained of discreet visual troubles, transient alterations of the uni- or bilateral visual acuity, apparently isolated alterations of the visual fields, or organic or functional alterations of the retina. In a significant number of cases, the examination has shown cerebral vascular alterations--sometimes very severe--which warrant very careful medical supervision and the institution of a sustained vascular treatment.", "PMID": 440699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4963", "title": "[Treatment of retinoblastomas, Clinique de Lausanne, 1944--1978].", "content": "Retinoblastoma remains a rare disease, but still one which has an uncertain life and functional prognosis. The diagnosis is often made late because the principal signs such as leukokoria and strabismus have not been recognized, thus a conservative treatment is no longer possible. However, when treated at an early stage, a child suffering from retinoblastoma has every chance of a complete cure and even normal vision may be preserved. Irradiation therapy plays an essential role, using local radiation by radioactive applicators or by external Betatron electron beams. Based on 52 cases, the methods of treatment and the results obtained at the Ophthalmology Department of Lausanne are reported, including one case of spontaneous cure of a bilateral retinoblastoma.", "contents": "[Treatment of retinoblastomas, Clinique de Lausanne, 1944--1978]. Retinoblastoma remains a rare disease, but still one which has an uncertain life and functional prognosis. The diagnosis is often made late because the principal signs such as leukokoria and strabismus have not been recognized, thus a conservative treatment is no longer possible. However, when treated at an early stage, a child suffering from retinoblastoma has every chance of a complete cure and even normal vision may be preserved. Irradiation therapy plays an essential role, using local radiation by radioactive applicators or by external Betatron electron beams. Based on 52 cases, the methods of treatment and the results obtained at the Ophthalmology Department of Lausanne are reported, including one case of spontaneous cure of a bilateral retinoblastoma.", "PMID": 440701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4964", "title": "[Operation on a congenital cataract in a Siberian Tiger].", "content": "A cataract operation in a young Siberian tiger is reported. This 5-month-old tiger, presenting with blindness, showed bilateral residual pupillary membranes and anterior polar cataracts combined with nuclear cataracts. After unilateral intracapsular extraction of the lens, the tiger adapted well to the improvement in sight and behaved almost like an animal with normal vision. The animal died 3 months post-operatively from unknown cause. Histological examination of the aphakic eye showed, at the site of operation on the cornea, an intact epithelium with discrete infiltration of the stroma together with low-grade vascularisation. In the eye not treated operatively, both an anterior polar cataract with adherent pupillary membrane strands and a central cataract were seen. Of particular note, when comparing this large wild cat with the domestic cat, was the marked development of the tapetum lucidum (up to 30 cell layers).", "contents": "[Operation on a congenital cataract in a Siberian Tiger]. A cataract operation in a young Siberian tiger is reported. This 5-month-old tiger, presenting with blindness, showed bilateral residual pupillary membranes and anterior polar cataracts combined with nuclear cataracts. After unilateral intracapsular extraction of the lens, the tiger adapted well to the improvement in sight and behaved almost like an animal with normal vision. The animal died 3 months post-operatively from unknown cause. Histological examination of the aphakic eye showed, at the site of operation on the cornea, an intact epithelium with discrete infiltration of the stroma together with low-grade vascularisation. In the eye not treated operatively, both an anterior polar cataract with adherent pupillary membrane strands and a central cataract were seen. Of particular note, when comparing this large wild cat with the domestic cat, was the marked development of the tapetum lucidum (up to 30 cell layers).", "PMID": 440702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4965", "title": "[Dynamics of nitrogen-containing compounds in the hemolymph of 2d- and 3d-stage larvae of the reindeer warblefly (Hypodermatidae)].", "content": "The content of the total protein, residual and amine nitrogen, urea and ammoniac depends on the physiological state of the warble fly larvae of the reindeer. Metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds carries out most intensively in the growing organism and during the moulting period. The moulting period is characterized by the fall in the total protein, residual and amine nitrogen and increase of the ammonias and urea.", "contents": "[Dynamics of nitrogen-containing compounds in the hemolymph of 2d- and 3d-stage larvae of the reindeer warblefly (Hypodermatidae)]. The content of the total protein, residual and amine nitrogen, urea and ammoniac depends on the physiological state of the warble fly larvae of the reindeer. Metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds carries out most intensively in the growing organism and during the moulting period. The moulting period is characterized by the fall in the total protein, residual and amine nitrogen and increase of the ammonias and urea.", "PMID": 440775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4966", "title": "[Circadian rhythm of the dropping of engorged larvae in 2 species of ixodid ticks (Ixodidae) and its photoperiodic entrainment].", "content": "Daily rhythm of detachment of engorged larvae of Ixodes ricinus L. and Hyalomma anatolicum Koch is regulated by photoperiod. In photoperiodic conditions (16--20 hours of light p. d.) the maximum of detachment in H. anatolicum occurs at the beginning of photophase (the first 4--8 hours), but in I. ricinus it occurs at the second part of photo-phase (12--16 hours after the light is on). The rhythm of detachment is regulated according to the processes of endogenous circadian nature which are maintained in the continuous light and are species-specific. The phase entrainment of detachment in continuous light is also influenced by biorhythms of hosts.", "contents": "[Circadian rhythm of the dropping of engorged larvae in 2 species of ixodid ticks (Ixodidae) and its photoperiodic entrainment]. Daily rhythm of detachment of engorged larvae of Ixodes ricinus L. and Hyalomma anatolicum Koch is regulated by photoperiod. In photoperiodic conditions (16--20 hours of light p. d.) the maximum of detachment in H. anatolicum occurs at the beginning of photophase (the first 4--8 hours), but in I. ricinus it occurs at the second part of photo-phase (12--16 hours after the light is on). The rhythm of detachment is regulated according to the processes of endogenous circadian nature which are maintained in the continuous light and are species-specific. The phase entrainment of detachment in continuous light is also influenced by biorhythms of hosts.", "PMID": 440776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4967", "title": "[Basic trends in the research for the control of infected blood-sucking ticks and insects, the vectors of human diseases].", "content": "Attention was given to the necessity of control of the infected part of the population of vectors of transmissible infections. For this purpose it was suggested to investigate the nature of parasitism of the agent, to look for synergists of their pathogenic effect and to study the ecology of vectors in order to use control measures against the infected part of the population in the sites of aggregation.", "contents": "[Basic trends in the research for the control of infected blood-sucking ticks and insects, the vectors of human diseases]. Attention was given to the necessity of control of the infected part of the population of vectors of transmissible infections. For this purpose it was suggested to investigate the nature of parasitism of the agent, to look for synergists of their pathogenic effect and to study the ecology of vectors in order to use control measures against the infected part of the population in the sites of aggregation.", "PMID": 440774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4968", "title": "[Histopathological changes in the skin of the rabbit fed on by preimaginal phases of the tick, Alveonasus lahorensis (Argasidae)].", "content": "During the feeding of larvae and nymphs of A. lahorensis haemorrhagic inflammation develops in the rabbit's skin. Lymphocytes and macrophages are the dominant cell elements in the reaction while during the feeding of nymphs eosinophilous leucocytes are observed in great number in the infiltrate. Around the oral parts of the tick an infiltration of collagenous fibres of the connective tissue is formed, which serves for a more firm attachment of the parasite, while beneath the proboscis a light band is formed from which the tick sucks the food substratum. By the end of the feeding of nymphs III in the place of skin affection a crust can be formed on account of the host's atrophied tissues, and in the integuments there are formed necrotic foci due to the hystolitic and toxic effect of the saliva.", "contents": "[Histopathological changes in the skin of the rabbit fed on by preimaginal phases of the tick, Alveonasus lahorensis (Argasidae)]. During the feeding of larvae and nymphs of A. lahorensis haemorrhagic inflammation develops in the rabbit's skin. Lymphocytes and macrophages are the dominant cell elements in the reaction while during the feeding of nymphs eosinophilous leucocytes are observed in great number in the infiltrate. Around the oral parts of the tick an infiltration of collagenous fibres of the connective tissue is formed, which serves for a more firm attachment of the parasite, while beneath the proboscis a light band is formed from which the tick sucks the food substratum. By the end of the feeding of nymphs III in the place of skin affection a crust can be formed on account of the host's atrophied tissues, and in the integuments there are formed necrotic foci due to the hystolitic and toxic effect of the saliva.", "PMID": 440777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4969", "title": "[Effect of the diapause in the Ixodes ricinus (Ixodidae) tick on the multiplication of the tick-borne encephalitis virus in its body].", "content": "The tick encephalitis virus was found to multiply more intensively in ticks developing without diapause. Thus, in larvae developing with diapause, in 4 and 8 weeks after they feed on infected animals, the virus titers were 3.0 and 3.5 lg LD50 respectively. At the development without diapause the titers were 4.3 and 5.3, respectively (P less than 0.05). The virus titers in infected nymphs developing without diapause were 2.5 to 3.9 lg LD50 higher than those of the diapausing individuals. In diapausing larvae and nymphs the tick encephalitis virus remained for a long time (8 to 10 weeks) without fall of titers. The fall of virus titers was not recorded either during the moulting of larvae for nymphs and nymphs for imago but in hungry ticks, which were maintained for a long time at 18 to 23 C, the amount of virus gradually diminished.", "contents": "[Effect of the diapause in the Ixodes ricinus (Ixodidae) tick on the multiplication of the tick-borne encephalitis virus in its body]. The tick encephalitis virus was found to multiply more intensively in ticks developing without diapause. Thus, in larvae developing with diapause, in 4 and 8 weeks after they feed on infected animals, the virus titers were 3.0 and 3.5 lg LD50 respectively. At the development without diapause the titers were 4.3 and 5.3, respectively (P less than 0.05). The virus titers in infected nymphs developing without diapause were 2.5 to 3.9 lg LD50 higher than those of the diapausing individuals. In diapausing larvae and nymphs the tick encephalitis virus remained for a long time (8 to 10 weeks) without fall of titers. The fall of virus titers was not recorded either during the moulting of larvae for nymphs and nymphs for imago but in hungry ticks, which were maintained for a long time at 18 to 23 C, the amount of virus gradually diminished.", "PMID": 440778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4970", "title": "Where do the heaviest children come from? A prospective study of white children from birth to 5 years of age.", "content": "A prospective follow-up study, from birth to age 5, of height, weight, and weight/height indices in 582 white children was carried out in a suburban private pediatric practice. The purpose of the study was to examine trends in height and weight over time, to evaluate any differences in measures of ponderosity between breast-fed and bottle-fed infants, and to locate the heaviest children at age 5. There were significant correlations between height, weight, the ratio of height to weight, the ponderal index (height/weight 1/3), and the Quetelet index (weight/height2) achieved during the first year of life, and that attained at age 5 years. However, approximately 70% of the variance in weight and ponderosity indices at age 5 could not be accounted for by measurement of weight and ponderosity during the first year of life. Breast-fed and bottle-fed infants did not differ in weight and weight/height indices. There was a modest, but consistent, \"tracking\" pattern among children in the upper decile for weight and ponderosity at age 5 years in that 30% of them were also in the top decile for weight and ponderosity at age 6 months, and 30% to 40% were in the top decile at age 1 year. More than half of the variance in weight or indices of body proportion at age 5 is not accounted for by these variables in the first year of life, indicating limitations to the generalizability of the concept, that obese infants become obese children.", "contents": "Where do the heaviest children come from? A prospective study of white children from birth to 5 years of age. A prospective follow-up study, from birth to age 5, of height, weight, and weight/height indices in 582 white children was carried out in a suburban private pediatric practice. The purpose of the study was to examine trends in height and weight over time, to evaluate any differences in measures of ponderosity between breast-fed and bottle-fed infants, and to locate the heaviest children at age 5. There were significant correlations between height, weight, the ratio of height to weight, the ponderal index (height/weight 1/3), and the Quetelet index (weight/height2) achieved during the first year of life, and that attained at age 5 years. However, approximately 70% of the variance in weight and ponderosity indices at age 5 could not be accounted for by measurement of weight and ponderosity during the first year of life. Breast-fed and bottle-fed infants did not differ in weight and weight/height indices. There was a modest, but consistent, \"tracking\" pattern among children in the upper decile for weight and ponderosity at age 5 years in that 30% of them were also in the top decile for weight and ponderosity at age 6 months, and 30% to 40% were in the top decile at age 1 year. More than half of the variance in weight or indices of body proportion at age 5 is not accounted for by these variables in the first year of life, indicating limitations to the generalizability of the concept, that obese infants become obese children.", "PMID": 440785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4971", "title": "Further observations on noise levels in infant incubators.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to conduct an acoustic analysis of incubator noise under two conditions: when the incubator was associated with different types of life-support equipment; and when impulse noise was created by striking the side of the incubator or by opening and closing the doors of the storage unit. It was found that the life-support equipment increased the overall noise levels of incubators by as much as 15 to 20 dB. Much of this increased energy was in the high frequency region. Impulse signals created by striking the side of the incubator ranged from 130 to 140 dB. A representative impulse for opening the incubator was 92.8 dB, whereas closing the door produced a peak amplitude of 114 dB.", "contents": "Further observations on noise levels in infant incubators. The purpose of this study was to conduct an acoustic analysis of incubator noise under two conditions: when the incubator was associated with different types of life-support equipment; and when impulse noise was created by striking the side of the incubator or by opening and closing the doors of the storage unit. It was found that the life-support equipment increased the overall noise levels of incubators by as much as 15 to 20 dB. Much of this increased energy was in the high frequency region. Impulse signals created by striking the side of the incubator ranged from 130 to 140 dB. A representative impulse for opening the incubator was 92.8 dB, whereas closing the door produced a peak amplitude of 114 dB.", "PMID": 440786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4972", "title": "[Karyotypes of the stem eelworms from wild-growing plants].", "content": "Unlike the stem eelworms of cultivated plants, which have n = 12, the stem eelworms of wild plants (Picris sp., Taraxacum officinale, Hieracium pratense, H. pilosella, Cirsium setosum and Falcaria vulgaris) possess high chromosomal numbers (from n = 19 in the first to n = 28 in the latter). Due to this the stem eelworms of wild plants must be separated from the collective species Ditylenchus dipsaci. Apparently these forms of stem eelworms are distinct species polyploid in their origin.", "contents": "[Karyotypes of the stem eelworms from wild-growing plants]. Unlike the stem eelworms of cultivated plants, which have n = 12, the stem eelworms of wild plants (Picris sp., Taraxacum officinale, Hieracium pratense, H. pilosella, Cirsium setosum and Falcaria vulgaris) possess high chromosomal numbers (from n = 19 in the first to n = 28 in the latter). Due to this the stem eelworms of wild plants must be separated from the collective species Ditylenchus dipsaci. Apparently these forms of stem eelworms are distinct species polyploid in their origin.", "PMID": 440781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4973", "title": "[Role of Toxoplasma gondii in human and animal chromosomal pathology].", "content": "Toxoplasma gondii was found to cause an appearance of cells with a changed number of chromosomes in the bone marrow of infected white rats. Besides the increase of aneuploid and polyploid cells the infection with toxoplasms inhibits the mitotic activity in bone marrow of rats. The similar changes were observed in blood leucocytes of toxoplasmosis patients.", "contents": "[Role of Toxoplasma gondii in human and animal chromosomal pathology]. Toxoplasma gondii was found to cause an appearance of cells with a changed number of chromosomes in the bone marrow of infected white rats. Besides the increase of aneuploid and polyploid cells the infection with toxoplasms inhibits the mitotic activity in bone marrow of rats. The similar changes were observed in blood leucocytes of toxoplasmosis patients.", "PMID": 440780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4974", "title": "Treatment of isoimmune thrombocytopenia of the newborn with transfusion of maternal platelets.", "content": "Isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia is a rare condition with potentially serious complications and mortality of 10%. There are several ways of diagnosing and treating this potential neonatal emergency, but the most simple and effective method we have found is that of transfusing maternal platelets. Two cases are reported in which this type of management was successful.", "contents": "Treatment of isoimmune thrombocytopenia of the newborn with transfusion of maternal platelets. Isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia is a rare condition with potentially serious complications and mortality of 10%. There are several ways of diagnosing and treating this potential neonatal emergency, but the most simple and effective method we have found is that of transfusing maternal platelets. Two cases are reported in which this type of management was successful.", "PMID": 440787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4975", "title": "[Systematic position of Hemiurus macrouri Gayevskaya, 1975 (Trematoda: Hemiuridae)].", "content": "On the basis of the structure of the terminal parts of the genital system Hemiurus macrouri Gayevskaya, 1975 is transferred to the genus Glomericirrus. G. ulmeri Campbell and Munroe, 1977 is considered as a synonym of G. macrouri (Gayevskaya, 1975). It is noted that G. macrouri occurs but rarely (1.1%) in Coryphaenoides rupestris from the northern part of the Middle Atlantic ridge.", "contents": "[Systematic position of Hemiurus macrouri Gayevskaya, 1975 (Trematoda: Hemiuridae)]. On the basis of the structure of the terminal parts of the genital system Hemiurus macrouri Gayevskaya, 1975 is transferred to the genus Glomericirrus. G. ulmeri Campbell and Munroe, 1977 is considered as a synonym of G. macrouri (Gayevskaya, 1975). It is noted that G. macrouri occurs but rarely (1.1%) in Coryphaenoides rupestris from the northern part of the Middle Atlantic ridge.", "PMID": 440783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4976", "title": "Mitral valve prolapse syndrome in children with Duchenne's progressive muscular dystrophy.", "content": "Myocardial function was evaluated prospectively by noninvasive methods in 20 boys with clinical, biochemical, muscle biopsy, and electromyographic evidence of Duchenne's progressive muscular dystrophy. Auscultatory evidence of a nonejection systolic click suggested mitral valve prolapse (MVP) syndrome in seven patients. Phonocardiography disclosed that the click was mid-systolic in four patients and early in three. Echocardiographic features consistent with this diagnosis were identified in all seven patients and in an additional four. One of these had an apical pansystolic murmur, suggestive of mitral regurgitation, whereas in the other three, prolapse of the mitral valve was \"silent\". Echocardiographic findings included an abrupt midsystolic, posterior motion (greater than 3 mm beyond the CD line) in five patients, multiple sequence echoes in six, and posterior coaptation of the mitral valve near the left atrial wall in six. The features most characteristic of MVP syndrome was a smooth, pansystolic, anteriorly concave (hammock-like) posterior motion deviating more than 3 mm beyond the CD line. Among the remaining nine patients who did not have echocardiographic evidence of prolapsing mitral valve, none had an early, middle or late nonejection systolic click or a heart murmur, although four patients in this group had moderate to severe scoliosis. These observations document of occurrence of MVP syndrome in children with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and indicate that its prevalence is high. We speculate that prolapse of the mitral valve in these patients is an expression of the underlying cardiomyopathy characteristic of Duchenne's muscular dystrophy rather than an isolated, dystrophic involvement of the mitral valve leaflets.", "contents": "Mitral valve prolapse syndrome in children with Duchenne's progressive muscular dystrophy. Myocardial function was evaluated prospectively by noninvasive methods in 20 boys with clinical, biochemical, muscle biopsy, and electromyographic evidence of Duchenne's progressive muscular dystrophy. Auscultatory evidence of a nonejection systolic click suggested mitral valve prolapse (MVP) syndrome in seven patients. Phonocardiography disclosed that the click was mid-systolic in four patients and early in three. Echocardiographic features consistent with this diagnosis were identified in all seven patients and in an additional four. One of these had an apical pansystolic murmur, suggestive of mitral regurgitation, whereas in the other three, prolapse of the mitral valve was \"silent\". Echocardiographic findings included an abrupt midsystolic, posterior motion (greater than 3 mm beyond the CD line) in five patients, multiple sequence echoes in six, and posterior coaptation of the mitral valve near the left atrial wall in six. The features most characteristic of MVP syndrome was a smooth, pansystolic, anteriorly concave (hammock-like) posterior motion deviating more than 3 mm beyond the CD line. Among the remaining nine patients who did not have echocardiographic evidence of prolapsing mitral valve, none had an early, middle or late nonejection systolic click or a heart murmur, although four patients in this group had moderate to severe scoliosis. These observations document of occurrence of MVP syndrome in children with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and indicate that its prevalence is high. We speculate that prolapse of the mitral valve in these patients is an expression of the underlying cardiomyopathy characteristic of Duchenne's muscular dystrophy rather than an isolated, dystrophic involvement of the mitral valve leaflets.", "PMID": 440788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4977", "title": "Ultrastructural abnormalities of the carotid body in sudden infant death syndrome.", "content": "The carotid bodies of four infants who died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) were compared, using electron microscopic techniques, with the carotid bodies of various control subjects. In the SIDS patients, there was a marked reduction or absence of the dense cytoplasmic granules of the carotid chemorecptor cells, as well as a reduction in cell number and size. These ultrastructural abnormalities may be pathophysiologically related to SIDS. A defect in this respiratory control organ could block normal stimulation of respiration during the periods of hypoxia that occur during episodes of sleep apnea in infancy. Further studies by electron microscopy are required to confirm degranulation of the carotid body as a pathognomonic sign of SIDS. Screening of high-risk infants should be directed at studying the carotid body and its mediated responses to hypoxia.", "contents": "Ultrastructural abnormalities of the carotid body in sudden infant death syndrome. The carotid bodies of four infants who died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) were compared, using electron microscopic techniques, with the carotid bodies of various control subjects. In the SIDS patients, there was a marked reduction or absence of the dense cytoplasmic granules of the carotid chemorecptor cells, as well as a reduction in cell number and size. These ultrastructural abnormalities may be pathophysiologically related to SIDS. A defect in this respiratory control organ could block normal stimulation of respiration during the periods of hypoxia that occur during episodes of sleep apnea in infancy. Further studies by electron microscopy are required to confirm degranulation of the carotid body as a pathognomonic sign of SIDS. Screening of high-risk infants should be directed at studying the carotid body and its mediated responses to hypoxia.", "PMID": 440789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4978", "title": "Severe immobilization hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency, and calcification.", "content": "Severe hypercalcemia with decreased renal function, hypertension, and renal calcifications developed in a 14-year-old boy who required prolonged immobilization for multiple fractures. Parathyroid hormone was not detectable in the serum. Urinary calcium excretion was high. Initially, mobilization was impossible and the patient was treated with a high fluid intake, low calcium intake, acidification of the urine, furosemide, and a passive exercise program. Renal function improved and renal calcifications resolved but hypercalcemia did not resolve. After mobilization the serum calcium concentration became normal rapidly. This treatment regimen is suggested for use in patients with immobilization hypercalcemia when mobilization is impossible.", "contents": "Severe immobilization hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency, and calcification. Severe hypercalcemia with decreased renal function, hypertension, and renal calcifications developed in a 14-year-old boy who required prolonged immobilization for multiple fractures. Parathyroid hormone was not detectable in the serum. Urinary calcium excretion was high. Initially, mobilization was impossible and the patient was treated with a high fluid intake, low calcium intake, acidification of the urine, furosemide, and a passive exercise program. Renal function improved and renal calcifications resolved but hypercalcemia did not resolve. After mobilization the serum calcium concentration became normal rapidly. This treatment regimen is suggested for use in patients with immobilization hypercalcemia when mobilization is impossible.", "PMID": 440790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4979", "title": "Increased muscularity of the pylmonary circulation in victims of sudden infant death syndrome.", "content": "It has recently become apparent that some victims of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) are chronically hypoxemic before death. In this study, the structural alterations in the pulmonary circulation of 15 victims of SIDS were examined using precise quantitative morphometric techniques applied to the injected and inflated lung. Increased muscularity of the pulmonary circulation has been demonstrated, as evidenced by the extension of muscle into arteries not usually muscularized during the first year of life, and by an increased thickness of the medial wall in some patients. This confirms the findings of Naeye and further justifies the shift of investigative efforts from the events immediately surrounding death to a search for chronic abnormalities.", "contents": "Increased muscularity of the pylmonary circulation in victims of sudden infant death syndrome. It has recently become apparent that some victims of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) are chronically hypoxemic before death. In this study, the structural alterations in the pulmonary circulation of 15 victims of SIDS were examined using precise quantitative morphometric techniques applied to the injected and inflated lung. Increased muscularity of the pulmonary circulation has been demonstrated, as evidenced by the extension of muscle into arteries not usually muscularized during the first year of life, and by an increased thickness of the medial wall in some patients. This confirms the findings of Naeye and further justifies the shift of investigative efforts from the events immediately surrounding death to a search for chronic abnormalities.", "PMID": 440797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4980", "title": "The chest roentgenogram in cystic fibrosis: a new scoring system.", "content": "A roentgenogram scoring system is presented that is useful in the evaluation and follow-up of patients with cystic fibrosis. The system has been shown to be reproducible by and between observers and to correlate significantly with results of pulmonary function tests, Shwachman-Kulczycki scores, and, in a short-term evaluation, morbidity.", "contents": "The chest roentgenogram in cystic fibrosis: a new scoring system. A roentgenogram scoring system is presented that is useful in the evaluation and follow-up of patients with cystic fibrosis. The system has been shown to be reproducible by and between observers and to correlate significantly with results of pulmonary function tests, Shwachman-Kulczycki scores, and, in a short-term evaluation, morbidity.", "PMID": 440798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4981", "title": "Roentgenographic follow-up of acute pneumonia in children.", "content": "The need for follow-up roentgenograms documenting complete clearing of pulmonary infiltrates in the pediatric patient with acute pneumonia was studied prospectively. Seventy of 129 children enrolled in the study had a repeat roentgenogram within three to four weeks after initial diagnosis. Twenty percent of this group had residual pulmonary infiltrates. Of the two thirds of those who returned for a second follow-up roetgenogram, the infiltratrates had cleared completely within three months. Routine repeat chest roentgenograms may not be necessary unless there is clinical evidence of persistent respiratory difficulty or failure to thrive.", "contents": "Roentgenographic follow-up of acute pneumonia in children. The need for follow-up roentgenograms documenting complete clearing of pulmonary infiltrates in the pediatric patient with acute pneumonia was studied prospectively. Seventy of 129 children enrolled in the study had a repeat roentgenogram within three to four weeks after initial diagnosis. Twenty percent of this group had residual pulmonary infiltrates. Of the two thirds of those who returned for a second follow-up roetgenogram, the infiltratrates had cleared completely within three months. Routine repeat chest roentgenograms may not be necessary unless there is clinical evidence of persistent respiratory difficulty or failure to thrive.", "PMID": 440799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4982", "title": "Hypertension screening in schools: results of the Dallas study.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of persistent blood pressure elevations in an eighth-grade population composed of three ethnic groups, and to determine the feasibility of using school health facilities for hypertension screening. Blood pressure was recorded in 10,641 subjects (90% of the total eighth-grade population) in the Dallas Independent School District. Blacks made up 46% of the population; non-Latin whites, 40.1%; and Latin-Americans, 13.9%. On the first blood pressure screening, 8.9% had systolic or diastolic pressures or both at or above the 95th percentile. Of those whose blood pressures were elevated on the first examination, 98.3% were reexamined. After the third examination, 1.2% continued to have systolic hypertension, and 0.37% diastolic hypertension. No student had diastolic pressure above 90 mm Hg on all three examinations. The prevalence of persistent hypertension was similar for the three ethnic groups. Analysis of variation in blood pressure measurements revealed that the school nurses introduced a relatively small increase in variability. These data indicate that although school screening initially identifies large numbers of students as having inconstant pressure elevations, subsequent follow-up examinations show that less than 2% have persistent hypertension.", "contents": "Hypertension screening in schools: results of the Dallas study. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of persistent blood pressure elevations in an eighth-grade population composed of three ethnic groups, and to determine the feasibility of using school health facilities for hypertension screening. Blood pressure was recorded in 10,641 subjects (90% of the total eighth-grade population) in the Dallas Independent School District. Blacks made up 46% of the population; non-Latin whites, 40.1%; and Latin-Americans, 13.9%. On the first blood pressure screening, 8.9% had systolic or diastolic pressures or both at or above the 95th percentile. Of those whose blood pressures were elevated on the first examination, 98.3% were reexamined. After the third examination, 1.2% continued to have systolic hypertension, and 0.37% diastolic hypertension. No student had diastolic pressure above 90 mm Hg on all three examinations. The prevalence of persistent hypertension was similar for the three ethnic groups. Analysis of variation in blood pressure measurements revealed that the school nurses introduced a relatively small increase in variability. These data indicate that although school screening initially identifies large numbers of students as having inconstant pressure elevations, subsequent follow-up examinations show that less than 2% have persistent hypertension.", "PMID": 440800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4983", "title": "Appendiceal rupture: a continuing diagnostic problem.", "content": "The mortality rate for appendicitis in children has remained relatively unchanged since the 1940s, when antibiotics were introduced in the treatment of appendiceal peritonitis. However, since this time the incidence of appendiceal rupture has increased appreciably, presumably owing to a failure of early recognition and treatment. At Columbus Children's Hospital, one half of all patients undergoing appendectomy for ruptured appendix in 1975 had been seen by another physician before admission, but the correct diagnosis had not been made. The history obtained by the primary physician and that given on admission were similar, yet differed from the histories given by patients whose disease had been correctly diagnosed. Findings on in-hospital physical examination of incorrectly diagnosed patients differed from those recorded by the primary physician, but were similar to those of patients whose disease had been correctly diagnosed. Since it is unlikely that the natural history of the disease has changed, the increased incidence of rupture must result either from early misinterpretation of physical findings or from greater delay by parents in responding to the child's illness. Physicians and parents must share the responsibility equally for the increasing incidence of appendiceal rupture in children.", "contents": "Appendiceal rupture: a continuing diagnostic problem. The mortality rate for appendicitis in children has remained relatively unchanged since the 1940s, when antibiotics were introduced in the treatment of appendiceal peritonitis. However, since this time the incidence of appendiceal rupture has increased appreciably, presumably owing to a failure of early recognition and treatment. At Columbus Children's Hospital, one half of all patients undergoing appendectomy for ruptured appendix in 1975 had been seen by another physician before admission, but the correct diagnosis had not been made. The history obtained by the primary physician and that given on admission were similar, yet differed from the histories given by patients whose disease had been correctly diagnosed. Findings on in-hospital physical examination of incorrectly diagnosed patients differed from those recorded by the primary physician, but were similar to those of patients whose disease had been correctly diagnosed. Since it is unlikely that the natural history of the disease has changed, the increased incidence of rupture must result either from early misinterpretation of physical findings or from greater delay by parents in responding to the child's illness. Physicians and parents must share the responsibility equally for the increasing incidence of appendiceal rupture in children.", "PMID": 440801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4984", "title": "Recurrent pulmonary disease in children: a complication of gastroesophageal reflux.", "content": "To evaluate the role of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) as a possible cause of recurrent pulmonary disease, 30 children, aged 1 to 18 years, were studied prospectively with esophageal function tests. These included esophagram (30 patients), esophageal manometry (29 patients), pH probe (Tuttle) test (29 patients), and esophagoscopy with esophageal biopsy (23 patients). The patients studied had either chronic asthma or two or more documented pneumonias within a one-year period. Nineteen (63%) had GER based on two or more positive tests. Eighteen had positive Tuttle tests; 13 had abnormal manometry studies; nine had esophagitis on biopsy; six had esophagitis on esophagoscopy; and five had reflux on esophagram. Of those with GER, 17 had a history of nocturnal cough and eight vomited during infancy. Children with recurrent pulmonary disease should have esophageal function testing to exclude GER as the cause.", "contents": "Recurrent pulmonary disease in children: a complication of gastroesophageal reflux. To evaluate the role of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) as a possible cause of recurrent pulmonary disease, 30 children, aged 1 to 18 years, were studied prospectively with esophageal function tests. These included esophagram (30 patients), esophageal manometry (29 patients), pH probe (Tuttle) test (29 patients), and esophagoscopy with esophageal biopsy (23 patients). The patients studied had either chronic asthma or two or more documented pneumonias within a one-year period. Nineteen (63%) had GER based on two or more positive tests. Eighteen had positive Tuttle tests; 13 had abnormal manometry studies; nine had esophagitis on biopsy; six had esophagitis on esophagoscopy; and five had reflux on esophagram. Of those with GER, 17 had a history of nocturnal cough and eight vomited during infancy. Children with recurrent pulmonary disease should have esophageal function testing to exclude GER as the cause.", "PMID": 440802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4985", "title": "L-Glutaric acidemia: investigation of a patient and his family.", "content": "A 5-month-old infant had an unusual combination of clinical signs and symptoms. These consisted of irritability, dystonia, lack of head control, grimacing, opisthotonos, choreoathetoid movements, delayed development, and severe metabolic acidosis. Metabolic investigation by gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry detected urinary organic acids. This confirmed the diagnosis of L-glutaric aciduria. The concentration of L-glutaric acid in the patient's plasma was 2.5 mg/dl (normal range, 0 to 0.1 mg/dl), and in the patient's urine was 4.6 mg/mg of creatinine (normal range, 0 to 0.05 mg/mg of creatinine), but the concentration was not elevated in the plasma and urine of the infant's parents nor of two other family members. No glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase activity was found in leukocytes taken from the patient. Three of the four family members, including the parents, demonstrated 38%, 42%, and 42% activity, respectively, compared with the activity of normal controls. These findings are consistent with an autosomal recessive disorder involving the metabolism of glutaryl-CoA to crotonyl-Co-a. Dietary restriction was instituted on two separate occasions. First, a low protein diet of 1.6 gm/kg of body weight per day was given, then a low lysine intake of 50 mg/kg/day. These dietary manipulations caused a decrease in the plasma and urine concentrations of L-glutaric acid and beta-hydroxyglutaric acid. However, no effect on the clinical manifestations of the disease was noted.", "contents": "L-Glutaric acidemia: investigation of a patient and his family. A 5-month-old infant had an unusual combination of clinical signs and symptoms. These consisted of irritability, dystonia, lack of head control, grimacing, opisthotonos, choreoathetoid movements, delayed development, and severe metabolic acidosis. Metabolic investigation by gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry detected urinary organic acids. This confirmed the diagnosis of L-glutaric aciduria. The concentration of L-glutaric acid in the patient's plasma was 2.5 mg/dl (normal range, 0 to 0.1 mg/dl), and in the patient's urine was 4.6 mg/mg of creatinine (normal range, 0 to 0.05 mg/mg of creatinine), but the concentration was not elevated in the plasma and urine of the infant's parents nor of two other family members. No glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase activity was found in leukocytes taken from the patient. Three of the four family members, including the parents, demonstrated 38%, 42%, and 42% activity, respectively, compared with the activity of normal controls. These findings are consistent with an autosomal recessive disorder involving the metabolism of glutaryl-CoA to crotonyl-Co-a. Dietary restriction was instituted on two separate occasions. First, a low protein diet of 1.6 gm/kg of body weight per day was given, then a low lysine intake of 50 mg/kg/day. These dietary manipulations caused a decrease in the plasma and urine concentrations of L-glutaric acid and beta-hydroxyglutaric acid. However, no effect on the clinical manifestations of the disease was noted.", "PMID": 440804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4986", "title": "Kawasaki disease: effect of treatment on coronary artery involvement.", "content": "Ninety-two patients with Kawasaki disease were treated with five different types of drug therapy: a steroid preparation (prednisolone), aspirin, an antibiotic, a combination of steroid plus aspirin, and a combination of steroid plus warfarin. One or two months after the onset of the disease, coronary angiography demonstrated coronary aneurysms in 20% of cases treated with an antibiotic alone, 64.7% of cases in the steroid-treated group, and 11% of those in the aspirin-treated group. These findings suggest that the steroid might act adversely to cause a progression of coronary lesions of the disease. The aspirin-treated group did not have a significantly lower incidence of coronary lesions compared with the group treated with an antibiotic alone. But in view of the fact that the direct cause of sudden death of the disease is thrombotic occlusion of a coronary artery, aspirin might act as the effective means for prevention of sudden death due to Kawasaki disease.", "contents": "Kawasaki disease: effect of treatment on coronary artery involvement. Ninety-two patients with Kawasaki disease were treated with five different types of drug therapy: a steroid preparation (prednisolone), aspirin, an antibiotic, a combination of steroid plus aspirin, and a combination of steroid plus warfarin. One or two months after the onset of the disease, coronary angiography demonstrated coronary aneurysms in 20% of cases treated with an antibiotic alone, 64.7% of cases in the steroid-treated group, and 11% of those in the aspirin-treated group. These findings suggest that the steroid might act adversely to cause a progression of coronary lesions of the disease. The aspirin-treated group did not have a significantly lower incidence of coronary lesions compared with the group treated with an antibiotic alone. But in view of the fact that the direct cause of sudden death of the disease is thrombotic occlusion of a coronary artery, aspirin might act as the effective means for prevention of sudden death due to Kawasaki disease.", "PMID": 440805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4987", "title": "Clinical characteristics of the afebrile pneumonia associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection in infants less than 6 months of age.", "content": "Respiratory tract colonization with Chlamydia trachomatis commonly occurs in natally acquired chlamydial infection and is sometimes associated with a chronic, afebrile pneumonia that has relatively distinctive clinical characteristics. To further define the frequency and clinical characteristics of lower respiratory tract disease associated with C trachomatis, we grouped 56 infants aged less than 6 months with afebrile pneumonia according to nasopharyngeal shedding of Chlamydia and viruses and compared their illnesses. Forty-one (73%) were positive for C trachomatis (23 had C trachomatis only, while 18 had C trachomatis plus a virus [cytomegalovirus, respiratory synctial virus, adenovirus, rhinovirus, or enterovirus]), and 15 were C trachomatis negative (nine had a virus only, and six had neither C trachomatis nor virus). The 41 infants with C trachomatis alone or C trachomatis plus a virus were similar clinically and differed significantly from other infants in several ways: (1) onset of symptoms before 8 weeks of age; (2) gradually worsening symptoms; (3) presentation for care at 4 to 11 weeks of age; (4) presence of conjunctivitis and ear abnormalities; (5) chest roentgenograms showing bilateral, symmetrical, interstitial infiltrates and hyperexpansion; (6) peripheral blood eosinophils greater than or equal to 300/cu mm; and (7) elevated values for serum immunoglobulins M, G, and A. Pediatrics 63:192--197, 1979, Chlamydia trachomatis, pneumonia, afebrile pneumonia, interstitial pneumonia.", "contents": "Clinical characteristics of the afebrile pneumonia associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection in infants less than 6 months of age. Respiratory tract colonization with Chlamydia trachomatis commonly occurs in natally acquired chlamydial infection and is sometimes associated with a chronic, afebrile pneumonia that has relatively distinctive clinical characteristics. To further define the frequency and clinical characteristics of lower respiratory tract disease associated with C trachomatis, we grouped 56 infants aged less than 6 months with afebrile pneumonia according to nasopharyngeal shedding of Chlamydia and viruses and compared their illnesses. Forty-one (73%) were positive for C trachomatis (23 had C trachomatis only, while 18 had C trachomatis plus a virus [cytomegalovirus, respiratory synctial virus, adenovirus, rhinovirus, or enterovirus]), and 15 were C trachomatis negative (nine had a virus only, and six had neither C trachomatis nor virus). The 41 infants with C trachomatis alone or C trachomatis plus a virus were similar clinically and differed significantly from other infants in several ways: (1) onset of symptoms before 8 weeks of age; (2) gradually worsening symptoms; (3) presentation for care at 4 to 11 weeks of age; (4) presence of conjunctivitis and ear abnormalities; (5) chest roentgenograms showing bilateral, symmetrical, interstitial infiltrates and hyperexpansion; (6) peripheral blood eosinophils greater than or equal to 300/cu mm; and (7) elevated values for serum immunoglobulins M, G, and A. Pediatrics 63:192--197, 1979, Chlamydia trachomatis, pneumonia, afebrile pneumonia, interstitial pneumonia.", "PMID": 440806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4988", "title": "Treatment of chlamydial pneumonia of infancy.", "content": "Infants with untreated chlamydial pneumonia shed Chlamydia trachomatis and are symptomatic for may weeks. We used sulfisoxazole, 150 mg/kg/day, or erythromycin ethyl succinate, 40 mg/kg/day, for approximately 14 days to treat 32 patients with chlamydial pneumonia of infancy, and observed them for nasopharyngeal shedding of C trachomatis and changing clinical status. All infants stopped shedding chlamydiae soon after treatment was started. After treatment, three of the 25 infants tested again became culture positive (but did not have clinical relapse). All infants improved clinically. In 24 (83%) of 29 infants, where the onset of improvement could be times, improvement began within seven days of starting treatment. Progression to complete recovery was observed in 27 of 28 infants examined between two weeks and two months of treatment completion. Neither the existence of concomitant viral infection nor the duration of illness or hospitalization before starting treatment influenced the interval between initiation of treatment and onset of clinical improvement. While these observations do not prove, they are at least compatible with the hypotheses that C trachomatis plays a central etiologic role in this illness and that termination of chlamydial infection is beneficial clinically. Pending the availibility of data from controlled studies, we believe that either of the treatment programs outlined warrant consideration in the clinical management of patients with chlamydial pneumonia of infancy.", "contents": "Treatment of chlamydial pneumonia of infancy. Infants with untreated chlamydial pneumonia shed Chlamydia trachomatis and are symptomatic for may weeks. We used sulfisoxazole, 150 mg/kg/day, or erythromycin ethyl succinate, 40 mg/kg/day, for approximately 14 days to treat 32 patients with chlamydial pneumonia of infancy, and observed them for nasopharyngeal shedding of C trachomatis and changing clinical status. All infants stopped shedding chlamydiae soon after treatment was started. After treatment, three of the 25 infants tested again became culture positive (but did not have clinical relapse). All infants improved clinically. In 24 (83%) of 29 infants, where the onset of improvement could be times, improvement began within seven days of starting treatment. Progression to complete recovery was observed in 27 of 28 infants examined between two weeks and two months of treatment completion. Neither the existence of concomitant viral infection nor the duration of illness or hospitalization before starting treatment influenced the interval between initiation of treatment and onset of clinical improvement. While these observations do not prove, they are at least compatible with the hypotheses that C trachomatis plays a central etiologic role in this illness and that termination of chlamydial infection is beneficial clinically. Pending the availibility of data from controlled studies, we believe that either of the treatment programs outlined warrant consideration in the clinical management of patients with chlamydial pneumonia of infancy.", "PMID": 440807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4989", "title": "Spontaneous closure of small ventricular septal defects: ten-year follow-up.", "content": "The natural history of small ventricular septal defect (VSD) was studied in 50 infants for up to 10.5 years. The VSD closed spontaneously in 34 patients. Life-table analysis of the data showed that by 10 years of age, 75% of small VSD will close spontaneously; the figure is higher for defects in the muscular septum (83%).", "contents": "Spontaneous closure of small ventricular septal defects: ten-year follow-up. The natural history of small ventricular septal defect (VSD) was studied in 50 infants for up to 10.5 years. The VSD closed spontaneously in 34 patients. Life-table analysis of the data showed that by 10 years of age, 75% of small VSD will close spontaneously; the figure is higher for defects in the muscular septum (83%).", "PMID": 440808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4990", "title": "Gastroesophageal reflux in steroid-dependent asthmatic youths.", "content": "The aims of this study were to evaluate the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in chronic allergic steroid-dependent asthmatic children and to assess whether a medical antireflux regimen might improve pulmonary status of asthmatics found to have reflux. Nineteen patients had a determination of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, pH assessment after acid instillation into the stomach (acid reflux test), and esophagram. After the reflux evaluation, an antireflux regimen was instituted for three weeks; patients were followed with asthma symptom diaries and weekly pulmonary function tests for this period and for another three weeks after finishing the regimen. Gastroesophageal reflux, diagnosed by positive acid reflux test, occurred in nine patients. Five patients had low LES pressure (less than or equal to 12 mm Hg), and two patients had an abnormal esophagram. There were no significant changes in asthma symptoms or pulmonary function tests with the medical antireflux regimen. Although GER does exist in a high percentage of this patient sample (47%), a short-term antacid and positional antireflux regimen does not improve the pulmonary status of these patients.", "contents": "Gastroesophageal reflux in steroid-dependent asthmatic youths. The aims of this study were to evaluate the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in chronic allergic steroid-dependent asthmatic children and to assess whether a medical antireflux regimen might improve pulmonary status of asthmatics found to have reflux. Nineteen patients had a determination of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, pH assessment after acid instillation into the stomach (acid reflux test), and esophagram. After the reflux evaluation, an antireflux regimen was instituted for three weeks; patients were followed with asthma symptom diaries and weekly pulmonary function tests for this period and for another three weeks after finishing the regimen. Gastroesophageal reflux, diagnosed by positive acid reflux test, occurred in nine patients. Five patients had low LES pressure (less than or equal to 12 mm Hg), and two patients had an abnormal esophagram. There were no significant changes in asthma symptoms or pulmonary function tests with the medical antireflux regimen. Although GER does exist in a high percentage of this patient sample (47%), a short-term antacid and positional antireflux regimen does not improve the pulmonary status of these patients.", "PMID": 440809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4991", "title": "Amniotic fluid microviscosity determined by fluorescence polarization: methodology and relation to gestational age.", "content": "The fluorescence polarization of 116 amniotic fluid specimens obtained from 22 isoimmunized pregnant women was determined. The degree of fluorescence polarization of amniotic fluid provides an index of microvisocity in lipid aggregates that is dependent on the lecithin-to-sphingomyelin ratio and the degree of saturation of fatty acid side chains. We confirmed the reproducibility of the measurement of amniotic fluid microviscosity (coefficient of variation, 2.0%). The measurements are not effected by bilirubin concentration of amniotic fluid dilution. The pattern of change of amniotic fluid microviscosity during gestation parallels the expected development of the surfactant system. Amniotic fluid microviscosity is high during early gestation and abruptly and sequentially decreases between the 28th and 36th week of gestation. Since the measurements are an accurate reflection of the biochemical properties of amniotic fluid lipids and parallel the development of the surfactant system, we conclude that amniotic fluid microviscosity may well serve as an indicator of the process of fetal lung maturation.", "contents": "Amniotic fluid microviscosity determined by fluorescence polarization: methodology and relation to gestational age. The fluorescence polarization of 116 amniotic fluid specimens obtained from 22 isoimmunized pregnant women was determined. The degree of fluorescence polarization of amniotic fluid provides an index of microvisocity in lipid aggregates that is dependent on the lecithin-to-sphingomyelin ratio and the degree of saturation of fatty acid side chains. We confirmed the reproducibility of the measurement of amniotic fluid microviscosity (coefficient of variation, 2.0%). The measurements are not effected by bilirubin concentration of amniotic fluid dilution. The pattern of change of amniotic fluid microviscosity during gestation parallels the expected development of the surfactant system. Amniotic fluid microviscosity is high during early gestation and abruptly and sequentially decreases between the 28th and 36th week of gestation. Since the measurements are an accurate reflection of the biochemical properties of amniotic fluid lipids and parallel the development of the surfactant system, we conclude that amniotic fluid microviscosity may well serve as an indicator of the process of fetal lung maturation.", "PMID": 440810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4992", "title": "Vaccination of children with human cell culture rabies vaccine.", "content": "Three children exposed to the bites of proved or probably rabid animals were immunized with human rabies immune globulin and human diploid cell culture vaccine. There were no significant clinical reactions, and all three developed high levels of rabies antibody. The patients have remained well from four to 18 months.", "contents": "Vaccination of children with human cell culture rabies vaccine. Three children exposed to the bites of proved or probably rabid animals were immunized with human rabies immune globulin and human diploid cell culture vaccine. There were no significant clinical reactions, and all three developed high levels of rabies antibody. The patients have remained well from four to 18 months.", "PMID": 440811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4993", "title": "Early detection of adenomatous polyposis coli in Gardner's syndrome.", "content": "Gardner's syndrome, an autosomal dominant disorder, consists of multiple polyposis of the colon associated with various soft- and hard-tissue tumors. The appearance of adenomatous hyperplasia and polyposis in at-risk patients before adolescence has not been full appreciated. Four preadolescent children from a kindred with Gardner's syndrome were examined by use of colonoscopy and mucosal biopsy. In three children (18 months, 6 years, and 9 years old) adenomatous hyperplasia or polyposis was found. The colon of the fourth child (3 years old) was normal. The three affected children were asymptomatic. The youngest had a barium enema and results were normal. The oldest child had polyps. Biopsies revealed focal atypical hyperplasia of the glands with pseudostratification of the epithelial cells, frequent mitotic figures, and the absence of goblet cells. More severe manifestations were noted in the splenic flexure than in the sigmoid flexure or rectum. The youngest patient showed early adenomatous hyperplasia characterized by a marked reduction of the goblet cells, especially in the surface epithelium. Colonoscopy and mucosal biopsies are mandatory in at-risk children. By deferring colonic examination until adolescence, a patient is placed at risk for malignant degeneration of the adenomatous tumor.", "contents": "Early detection of adenomatous polyposis coli in Gardner's syndrome. Gardner's syndrome, an autosomal dominant disorder, consists of multiple polyposis of the colon associated with various soft- and hard-tissue tumors. The appearance of adenomatous hyperplasia and polyposis in at-risk patients before adolescence has not been full appreciated. Four preadolescent children from a kindred with Gardner's syndrome were examined by use of colonoscopy and mucosal biopsy. In three children (18 months, 6 years, and 9 years old) adenomatous hyperplasia or polyposis was found. The colon of the fourth child (3 years old) was normal. The three affected children were asymptomatic. The youngest had a barium enema and results were normal. The oldest child had polyps. Biopsies revealed focal atypical hyperplasia of the glands with pseudostratification of the epithelial cells, frequent mitotic figures, and the absence of goblet cells. More severe manifestations were noted in the splenic flexure than in the sigmoid flexure or rectum. The youngest patient showed early adenomatous hyperplasia characterized by a marked reduction of the goblet cells, especially in the surface epithelium. Colonoscopy and mucosal biopsies are mandatory in at-risk children. By deferring colonic examination until adolescence, a patient is placed at risk for malignant degeneration of the adenomatous tumor.", "PMID": 440812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4994", "title": "Munchausen syndrome by proxy: definition of factitious bleeding in an infant by 51Cr labeling of erythrocytes.", "content": "The Munchausen syndrome by proxy is a phenomenon in which symptoms of a disease are fabricated by some person other than the patient. This report describes and 8-week-old infant with repetitive bleeding episodes, presumably originating from the upper respiratory tract. Extensive investigations, including angiography, several endoscopies under general anesthesia, and reinfusion of the infant's red cells labeled with 51Cr followed by pulmonary and upper airway scanning, failed to reveal the source of bleeding. Within two weeks after initiation of the 51Cr studies, radioactivity of facial blood from two separate bleeding episodes did not exceed background counts. Simultaneous examination of the infant's capillary blood, however, showed moderate to marked radioactivity. The Rh subtype of the facial blood was cc, whereas the infant's type was Cc. These findings indicated that the facial blood was factitious in origin. No further \"bleeding\" occurred after this information was presented to the parents. This case represents an unusual example of the Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Awareness of this entity can prevent potentially harmful investigations. Documenting its occurrence and sharing the information with parents in a nonaccusatory manner may prevent future harm to the patient.", "contents": "Munchausen syndrome by proxy: definition of factitious bleeding in an infant by 51Cr labeling of erythrocytes. The Munchausen syndrome by proxy is a phenomenon in which symptoms of a disease are fabricated by some person other than the patient. This report describes and 8-week-old infant with repetitive bleeding episodes, presumably originating from the upper respiratory tract. Extensive investigations, including angiography, several endoscopies under general anesthesia, and reinfusion of the infant's red cells labeled with 51Cr followed by pulmonary and upper airway scanning, failed to reveal the source of bleeding. Within two weeks after initiation of the 51Cr studies, radioactivity of facial blood from two separate bleeding episodes did not exceed background counts. Simultaneous examination of the infant's capillary blood, however, showed moderate to marked radioactivity. The Rh subtype of the facial blood was cc, whereas the infant's type was Cc. These findings indicated that the facial blood was factitious in origin. No further \"bleeding\" occurred after this information was presented to the parents. This case represents an unusual example of the Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Awareness of this entity can prevent potentially harmful investigations. Documenting its occurrence and sharing the information with parents in a nonaccusatory manner may prevent future harm to the patient.", "PMID": 440813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4995", "title": "Sickle cell anemia in two White American children: essential laboratory criteria for diagnosis.", "content": "A number of hematologic disorders share diagnostic and clinical features of sickle cell anemia but have significantly different genetic implications and prognosis. Because of these differences, the establishment of a precise diagnosis is essential for the child in whom any form of sickle cell disease is identified. To illustrate the requirements for a definitive laboratory diagnosis of sickle cell anemia, this report presents the approach to establishing this diagnosis in two white American patients. From a review of the literature, these patients appear to be the only white Americans with sickle cell anemia in whom the diagnosis has been unequivocally established.", "contents": "Sickle cell anemia in two White American children: essential laboratory criteria for diagnosis. A number of hematologic disorders share diagnostic and clinical features of sickle cell anemia but have significantly different genetic implications and prognosis. Because of these differences, the establishment of a precise diagnosis is essential for the child in whom any form of sickle cell disease is identified. To illustrate the requirements for a definitive laboratory diagnosis of sickle cell anemia, this report presents the approach to establishing this diagnosis in two white American patients. From a review of the literature, these patients appear to be the only white Americans with sickle cell anemia in whom the diagnosis has been unequivocally established.", "PMID": 440814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4996", "title": "Maternal oral herpes: isolation policy.", "content": "Current official recommendations are that parents and personnel with oral herpes lesions be isolated from newborn infants. A survey of 110 neonatal centers, 50% of them replying, showed that most centers do not isolate mothers with oral herpes from their newborn infants. A review of the literature suggest that exposure of infants to personnel or family with oral herpes lesions might occasionally result in disseminated neonatal herpes simplex virus disease. Since the separation of a mother from her newborn infant up to 1 week of ages is a decision that should not be taken lightly, more information is urgently needed to decide whether or not to isolate mothers and hospital personnel with oral herpes lesions from newborn infants. Recommendations to obtain more information concerning these infants are provided.", "contents": "Maternal oral herpes: isolation policy. Current official recommendations are that parents and personnel with oral herpes lesions be isolated from newborn infants. A survey of 110 neonatal centers, 50% of them replying, showed that most centers do not isolate mothers with oral herpes from their newborn infants. A review of the literature suggest that exposure of infants to personnel or family with oral herpes lesions might occasionally result in disseminated neonatal herpes simplex virus disease. Since the separation of a mother from her newborn infant up to 1 week of ages is a decision that should not be taken lightly, more information is urgently needed to decide whether or not to isolate mothers and hospital personnel with oral herpes lesions from newborn infants. Recommendations to obtain more information concerning these infants are provided.", "PMID": 440815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4997", "title": "A new device for diagnosis and treatment of neonatal pneumothorax.", "content": "A new closed-system device for the diagnosis and treatment of pneumothorax was evaluated in ten New Zealand white rabbits and compared with and open-system needle. The closed-system device proved to be safe for diagnostic thoracentesis. There were no pneumothoraces as a result of the procedure with the closed-system device as confirmed by chest roentgenograms and pleural pressure measurements. In contrast, 70% of the diagnostic thoracenteses with the open-system needle were associated with pneumothorax documented by x-ray films and a significant increase in mean pleural pressure. The new apparatus was more efficacious for evacuation of pneumothoraces because complete air removal occurred in 90% of the rabbits as compared with 60% of trials with the open-system needle. If the efficacy of the new closed-system device proves to be good in human infants, the pediatrician encountering a tension pneumothorax in the newborn can use a completely assembled system that is safe for diagnosing and treating this acute life-threatening condition.", "contents": "A new device for diagnosis and treatment of neonatal pneumothorax. A new closed-system device for the diagnosis and treatment of pneumothorax was evaluated in ten New Zealand white rabbits and compared with and open-system needle. The closed-system device proved to be safe for diagnostic thoracentesis. There were no pneumothoraces as a result of the procedure with the closed-system device as confirmed by chest roentgenograms and pleural pressure measurements. In contrast, 70% of the diagnostic thoracenteses with the open-system needle were associated with pneumothorax documented by x-ray films and a significant increase in mean pleural pressure. The new apparatus was more efficacious for evacuation of pneumothoraces because complete air removal occurred in 90% of the rabbits as compared with 60% of trials with the open-system needle. If the efficacy of the new closed-system device proves to be good in human infants, the pediatrician encountering a tension pneumothorax in the newborn can use a completely assembled system that is safe for diagnosing and treating this acute life-threatening condition.", "PMID": 440816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4998", "title": "Diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine: reactogenicity of commercial products.", "content": "Parents from four practices were surveyed to ascertain reactions of children to diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) vaccine in the 48 hours after immunization. Vaccines were administered according to current recommendations. Responses were scored in three categories: temperature, behavioral changes, and local reactions. Questionnaires were returned by 1,232 (84.9%) patients. Only 7.0% reported no reaction, while 336 (27.3%) reported mild, 722 (58.6%) moderate, and 88 (7.1%) severe reactions. Over 50% experienced temperatures of at least 100 F, and 80% noted behavioral changes; 72.2% had local reactions. No encephalitis, seizures, or hospitalizations were reported. Reactogenicity was similar for the five immunizations of the recommended series and the two manufacturers evaluated. Reported reactions in the control group were significantly lower than in the study group. These reaction rates underline the need to reevaluate present DPT vaccines.", "contents": "Diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine: reactogenicity of commercial products. Parents from four practices were surveyed to ascertain reactions of children to diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) vaccine in the 48 hours after immunization. Vaccines were administered according to current recommendations. Responses were scored in three categories: temperature, behavioral changes, and local reactions. Questionnaires were returned by 1,232 (84.9%) patients. Only 7.0% reported no reaction, while 336 (27.3%) reported mild, 722 (58.6%) moderate, and 88 (7.1%) severe reactions. Over 50% experienced temperatures of at least 100 F, and 80% noted behavioral changes; 72.2% had local reactions. No encephalitis, seizures, or hospitalizations were reported. Reactogenicity was similar for the five immunizations of the recommended series and the two manufacturers evaluated. Reported reactions in the control group were significantly lower than in the study group. These reaction rates underline the need to reevaluate present DPT vaccines.", "PMID": 440817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_4999", "title": "The pharyngeal effect of partial nasal obstruction.", "content": "The case histroy and cinematoradiographic findings of a baby with partial nasal obstruction are presented. This infant's restriction to air entry at the nose led to severe airway obstruction during inspiration by a forward movement of the posterior pharyngeal wall and backward movement of the tongue and lower jaw. At the height of inspiration, there was total airway occlusion in the pharynx. These events can be explained by the pressure drop that takes place behind a restriction if air is sucked through it forcibly from an area of atmospheric pressure. Studies of postpalatal pressures in adults and infants demonstrate such a drop in pressure during nasal breathing if the nose is partly obstructed. If the adult or infant is able to respond to the diminished nasal airway by mouth breathing, there is no postpalatal pressure drop. It is suggested that partial nasal obstruction in a sleeping obligatory nasal-breathing infant could result in a sucking back of the tongue over the larynx in this \"cafe coronary\" type of situation. This could be the mechanism of the obstructive type of apnea recorded by Steinschneider, and of the asphyxial type of death that is suggested by autopsies on some \"cot death\" victims. This hypothesis is consistent with the frequency of infection of rhinitis and pharyngitis in victims of sudden infant death syndrome and with the seasonal incidence. Prevention of this obstructive type of apnea would depend on the recognition of infants showing inspiratory and expiratory changes in pharyngeal airway size as can be seen externally by the movements in the carotid triangle of the neck and confirmed by roentgenography or cinematoradiography.", "contents": "The pharyngeal effect of partial nasal obstruction. The case histroy and cinematoradiographic findings of a baby with partial nasal obstruction are presented. This infant's restriction to air entry at the nose led to severe airway obstruction during inspiration by a forward movement of the posterior pharyngeal wall and backward movement of the tongue and lower jaw. At the height of inspiration, there was total airway occlusion in the pharynx. These events can be explained by the pressure drop that takes place behind a restriction if air is sucked through it forcibly from an area of atmospheric pressure. Studies of postpalatal pressures in adults and infants demonstrate such a drop in pressure during nasal breathing if the nose is partly obstructed. If the adult or infant is able to respond to the diminished nasal airway by mouth breathing, there is no postpalatal pressure drop. It is suggested that partial nasal obstruction in a sleeping obligatory nasal-breathing infant could result in a sucking back of the tongue over the larynx in this \"cafe coronary\" type of situation. This could be the mechanism of the obstructive type of apnea recorded by Steinschneider, and of the asphyxial type of death that is suggested by autopsies on some \"cot death\" victims. This hypothesis is consistent with the frequency of infection of rhinitis and pharyngitis in victims of sudden infant death syndrome and with the seasonal incidence. Prevention of this obstructive type of apnea would depend on the recognition of infants showing inspiratory and expiratory changes in pharyngeal airway size as can be seen externally by the movements in the carotid triangle of the neck and confirmed by roentgenography or cinematoradiography.", "PMID": 440818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5000", "title": "A comparative study of the behavior of Greek neonates.", "content": "Three groups of 30 Greek neonates each (an adoptive group from the Metera orphanage, a lower-class group, and a middle-class group) were evaluated at days 1, 5, and 10 after birth using a behavioral scale of 21 items and a neurologic evaluation of 16 items. Behaviors were examined for group differences and group-by-age recovery curves were determined during the first ten days. Significant differences were found in the separate items and items grouped to reflect interactive, motor, and state behavioral dimensions. The adoptive babies at the Metera orphanage generally performed the most poorly. This difference seems not only to reflect intrauterine differences, especially in regard to nutrition, but to point to the likelihood of eliciting less than optimal responses from future environments. The middle-class group had the worst scores on physiologic items and were similar to the Metera babies in having initially depressed interactive, motor, and state behavior. Improvement in these areas over ten days suggested that temporary effects of maternal medication caused the poor scores. The recovery curves of the infants pointed to the important effects of such perinatal variables as maternal medication on early neonatal behavior.", "contents": "A comparative study of the behavior of Greek neonates. Three groups of 30 Greek neonates each (an adoptive group from the Metera orphanage, a lower-class group, and a middle-class group) were evaluated at days 1, 5, and 10 after birth using a behavioral scale of 21 items and a neurologic evaluation of 16 items. Behaviors were examined for group differences and group-by-age recovery curves were determined during the first ten days. Significant differences were found in the separate items and items grouped to reflect interactive, motor, and state behavioral dimensions. The adoptive babies at the Metera orphanage generally performed the most poorly. This difference seems not only to reflect intrauterine differences, especially in regard to nutrition, but to point to the likelihood of eliciting less than optimal responses from future environments. The middle-class group had the worst scores on physiologic items and were similar to the Metera babies in having initially depressed interactive, motor, and state behavior. Improvement in these areas over ten days suggested that temporary effects of maternal medication caused the poor scores. The recovery curves of the infants pointed to the important effects of such perinatal variables as maternal medication on early neonatal behavior.", "PMID": 440820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5001", "title": "Hydrops of the gallbladder in a child: diagnosis by ultrasonography.", "content": "Hydrops of the gallbladder is a rare cause of right upper quadrant mass in children. A case of acute hydrops of the gallbladder in a 5-year-old child is reported. A specific and accurate diagnosis can be made preoperatively only by sonography. Characteristic sonographic findings are described.", "contents": "Hydrops of the gallbladder in a child: diagnosis by ultrasonography. Hydrops of the gallbladder is a rare cause of right upper quadrant mass in children. A case of acute hydrops of the gallbladder in a 5-year-old child is reported. A specific and accurate diagnosis can be made preoperatively only by sonography. Characteristic sonographic findings are described.", "PMID": 440822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5002", "title": "Tropical pyomyositis: a case report and review.", "content": "Tropical pyomyositis is a disease of skeletal muscle characterized by single or multiple abscesses. The infective organism is most often penicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Only recently have case reports appeared in the literature from temperate zones; however, this disease is common in the tropics. This report reviews the literature and describes a child from rural North Carolina in whom tropical pyomyositis developed after incision and drainage of a furuncle.", "contents": "Tropical pyomyositis: a case report and review. Tropical pyomyositis is a disease of skeletal muscle characterized by single or multiple abscesses. The infective organism is most often penicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Only recently have case reports appeared in the literature from temperate zones; however, this disease is common in the tropics. This report reviews the literature and describes a child from rural North Carolina in whom tropical pyomyositis developed after incision and drainage of a furuncle.", "PMID": 440823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5003", "title": "American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Drugs: anticonvulsants and pregnancy.", "content": "There is an increased risk of congenital heart disease and cleft palate among the offspring of women with epilepsy, most of whom are on anticonvulsants. Part of this increase may be caused by phenytoin. The risk of all abnormalities in these infants appears to be about 4% to 5%, which is approximately double the rate of malformations in the general population. There appears to be an ill-defined \"syndrome\" associated with fetal exposure to hydantoin, although it has not been proven to be caused by the drug. The risk of this \"syndrome\" is of unknown magnitude, but it is probably less than 10%. The significance to a given child of the abnormalities in this \"syndrome\" is not predictable at this time.", "contents": "American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Drugs: anticonvulsants and pregnancy. There is an increased risk of congenital heart disease and cleft palate among the offspring of women with epilepsy, most of whom are on anticonvulsants. Part of this increase may be caused by phenytoin. The risk of all abnormalities in these infants appears to be about 4% to 5%, which is approximately double the rate of malformations in the general population. There appears to be an ill-defined \"syndrome\" associated with fetal exposure to hydantoin, although it has not been proven to be caused by the drug. The risk of this \"syndrome\" is of unknown magnitude, but it is probably less than 10%. The significance to a given child of the abnormalities in this \"syndrome\" is not predictable at this time.", "PMID": 440824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5004", "title": "Periodic breathing in infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome.", "content": "Twelve-hour nocturnal home recordings of respiration and heart rates were obtained during sleep in 32 infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and in 32 control infants, and the recordings were analyzed for periodic breathing. An episode of periodic breathing was defined as three or more apneic pauses of three or more seconds. The duration of respirations interrupting the pauses was 20 seconds or less. Analysis revealed a statistically significant difference (P less than .001) between the two groups, using criteria of percent of periodic breathing episodes, number of periodic breathing episodes/100 min of recorded sleep time, average duration of all episodes, and duration of the longest episode of periodic breathing. It is concluded that periodic breathing is present in excessive amounts during sleep in infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome.", "contents": "Periodic breathing in infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome. Twelve-hour nocturnal home recordings of respiration and heart rates were obtained during sleep in 32 infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and in 32 control infants, and the recordings were analyzed for periodic breathing. An episode of periodic breathing was defined as three or more apneic pauses of three or more seconds. The duration of respirations interrupting the pauses was 20 seconds or less. Analysis revealed a statistically significant difference (P less than .001) between the two groups, using criteria of percent of periodic breathing episodes, number of periodic breathing episodes/100 min of recorded sleep time, average duration of all episodes, and duration of the longest episode of periodic breathing. It is concluded that periodic breathing is present in excessive amounts during sleep in infants with near-miss sudden infant death syndrome.", "PMID": 440836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5005", "title": "Multifocal myocardial necrosis and fibrosis in pancreatic diseases of children.", "content": "From a review of 2,000 autopsies of children, 16 cases of extensive necrosis and scarring fibrosis of the myocardium were found. These lesions involved mainly the left ventricle and spared the endocardium, the pericardium, and the coronary vessels. These necrotic of fibrotic heart lesions were found to be closely associated with various pancreatic diseases: cystic fibrosis (11 cases), pancreatic lipomatosis (2 cases), extensive small bowel resection (3 cases, 2 of which were associated with acute interstitial pancreatitis). To explain these unexpected associations, two hypotheses can be put forth: (1) The lack of absorption of some presently undetermined substances indispensable for the correct trophicity of the myocardium, and (2) the release in the blood of proteolytic enzymes with consecutive activation of phlogistic substances such as kinins.", "contents": "Multifocal myocardial necrosis and fibrosis in pancreatic diseases of children. From a review of 2,000 autopsies of children, 16 cases of extensive necrosis and scarring fibrosis of the myocardium were found. These lesions involved mainly the left ventricle and spared the endocardium, the pericardium, and the coronary vessels. These necrotic of fibrotic heart lesions were found to be closely associated with various pancreatic diseases: cystic fibrosis (11 cases), pancreatic lipomatosis (2 cases), extensive small bowel resection (3 cases, 2 of which were associated with acute interstitial pancreatitis). To explain these unexpected associations, two hypotheses can be put forth: (1) The lack of absorption of some presently undetermined substances indispensable for the correct trophicity of the myocardium, and (2) the release in the blood of proteolytic enzymes with consecutive activation of phlogistic substances such as kinins.", "PMID": 440837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5006", "title": "Strychnine therapy in nonketotic hyperglycinemia.", "content": "Nonketotic hyperglycinemia is an inborn error of metabolism resulting from a defect in the glycine cleavage enzyme system. It is characterized biochemically by elevated concentrations of glycine in blood, spinal fluid, and urine. Previous therapies which have been directed toward reducing the glycine concentration in plasma and CSF have not been successful in preventing neurological deterioration, which may be the result of the role of glycine as an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Strychnine treatment was initiated because it is a specific antagonist of glycine at postsynaptic membranes. The patient reported here has shown clinical and EEG improvement while taking strychnine in conjunction with sodium benzoate.", "contents": "Strychnine therapy in nonketotic hyperglycinemia. Nonketotic hyperglycinemia is an inborn error of metabolism resulting from a defect in the glycine cleavage enzyme system. It is characterized biochemically by elevated concentrations of glycine in blood, spinal fluid, and urine. Previous therapies which have been directed toward reducing the glycine concentration in plasma and CSF have not been successful in preventing neurological deterioration, which may be the result of the role of glycine as an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Strychnine treatment was initiated because it is a specific antagonist of glycine at postsynaptic membranes. The patient reported here has shown clinical and EEG improvement while taking strychnine in conjunction with sodium benzoate.", "PMID": 440838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5007", "title": "Age, sex, and season of onset of juvenile diabetes in different geographic areas.", "content": "Age, sex, and estimated time of onset of insulin-dependent diabetes were determined for children in Pittsburgh (N = 673), Gainesville (N = 976), Galveston (n = 741), and Melbourne (N = 851). The US cities had a decrease in new cases during the summer and peak incidence in January through April. In Melbourne, monthly trends were reversed: there were more cases during May through August. In US cities, but not in Melbourne, children less than 6 years old showed a greater variation by season than children 6 years old and older. Observations of the same fall and winter onset (in different calendar months) of insulin-dependent diabetes in Australia and the United States, and exaggeration of seasonal differences in young US children, suggest that onset of insulin-dependent diabetes is associated with seasonally varying viral diseases. Mumps and rubella infections do not seem to be responsible for much of the seasonal variation. Seasonal peaks of mumps and rubella are later than those observed for insulin-dependent diabetes, and immunization with live mumps and rubella viruses has not been associated with changes in incidence of insulin-dependent diabetes. An increase in disease incidence in boys over girls below age 6 years and in girls over boys at ages 6 through 11 years was consistently observed but not explained.", "contents": "Age, sex, and season of onset of juvenile diabetes in different geographic areas. Age, sex, and estimated time of onset of insulin-dependent diabetes were determined for children in Pittsburgh (N = 673), Gainesville (N = 976), Galveston (n = 741), and Melbourne (N = 851). The US cities had a decrease in new cases during the summer and peak incidence in January through April. In Melbourne, monthly trends were reversed: there were more cases during May through August. In US cities, but not in Melbourne, children less than 6 years old showed a greater variation by season than children 6 years old and older. Observations of the same fall and winter onset (in different calendar months) of insulin-dependent diabetes in Australia and the United States, and exaggeration of seasonal differences in young US children, suggest that onset of insulin-dependent diabetes is associated with seasonally varying viral diseases. Mumps and rubella infections do not seem to be responsible for much of the seasonal variation. Seasonal peaks of mumps and rubella are later than those observed for insulin-dependent diabetes, and immunization with live mumps and rubella viruses has not been associated with changes in incidence of insulin-dependent diabetes. An increase in disease incidence in boys over girls below age 6 years and in girls over boys at ages 6 through 11 years was consistently observed but not explained.", "PMID": 440839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5008", "title": "Alterations in gastrointestinal microflora during antimicrobial therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis.", "content": "Changes in the gastrointestinal microflora were noted in 22 infants during combined topical and parenteral antimicrobial therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Gastric and fecal cultures obtained during therapy showed significantly decreased Gram-negative aerobic organisms, most of which were Enterobacteriaceae, when compared with pretreatment cultures. Members of this bacterial family have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NEC in many reports. The data presented here show that the number of organisms retrieved can be reduced with this method of antimicrobial therapy.", "contents": "Alterations in gastrointestinal microflora during antimicrobial therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis. Changes in the gastrointestinal microflora were noted in 22 infants during combined topical and parenteral antimicrobial therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Gastric and fecal cultures obtained during therapy showed significantly decreased Gram-negative aerobic organisms, most of which were Enterobacteriaceae, when compared with pretreatment cultures. Members of this bacterial family have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NEC in many reports. The data presented here show that the number of organisms retrieved can be reduced with this method of antimicrobial therapy.", "PMID": 440844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5009", "title": "Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial flora of the maternal cervix and newborn gastric fluid and conjunctiva: a prospective study.", "content": "Aerobic and anaerobic cultures were performed on cervical swabs from 35 mothers and their newborn infants' gastric aspirates and conjunctival sacs. Four hundred seventy-nine isolates were obtained; 287 were aerobes and 192 were anaerobes. The cervical and gastric cultures overall yielded a similar flora, but this was not always the case when one compared mothers with their own newborn infants. The conjunctival cultures yielded about half of the number of bacteria per specimen that the gastric contents yielded, and a repeat conjunctival culture done 48 hours later showed a marked reduction in the number of potentially pathogenic bacteria isolated. The predominant aerobes isolated were Staphylococcus epidermidis, diphtheroids, viridans streptococci and Haemophilus vaginalis. The predominant anaerobes were the Bacteroides fragilis group, Propionibacterium acnes, Peptococcus, other Bacteroides and Peptostreptococcus organisms. Statistical analysis revealed significant positive correlation between the isolation of certain groups of organisms and increased duration of pregnancy, increased baby's weight, and prolonged duration of labor.", "contents": "Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial flora of the maternal cervix and newborn gastric fluid and conjunctiva: a prospective study. Aerobic and anaerobic cultures were performed on cervical swabs from 35 mothers and their newborn infants' gastric aspirates and conjunctival sacs. Four hundred seventy-nine isolates were obtained; 287 were aerobes and 192 were anaerobes. The cervical and gastric cultures overall yielded a similar flora, but this was not always the case when one compared mothers with their own newborn infants. The conjunctival cultures yielded about half of the number of bacteria per specimen that the gastric contents yielded, and a repeat conjunctival culture done 48 hours later showed a marked reduction in the number of potentially pathogenic bacteria isolated. The predominant aerobes isolated were Staphylococcus epidermidis, diphtheroids, viridans streptococci and Haemophilus vaginalis. The predominant anaerobes were the Bacteroides fragilis group, Propionibacterium acnes, Peptococcus, other Bacteroides and Peptostreptococcus organisms. Statistical analysis revealed significant positive correlation between the isolation of certain groups of organisms and increased duration of pregnancy, increased baby's weight, and prolonged duration of labor.", "PMID": 440845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5010", "title": "Neonatal traumatic proximal femoral epiphysiolysis.", "content": "Traumatic proximal femoral epiphysiolysis is a rare event. Early recognition and management are important to minimize sequelae. Evaluation should include plain roentgenograms and arthrography. Treatment should be conservative with open reduction reserved only for severe cases.", "contents": "Neonatal traumatic proximal femoral epiphysiolysis. Traumatic proximal femoral epiphysiolysis is a rare event. Early recognition and management are important to minimize sequelae. Evaluation should include plain roentgenograms and arthrography. Treatment should be conservative with open reduction reserved only for severe cases.", "PMID": 440846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5011", "title": "Postnatal acquisition of herpes simplex virus by the newborn infant: a review of the literature.", "content": "The literature relating to the hazards of herpes simplex virus acquired by newborn infants after birth is reviewed. A total of 24 infants has been reported who have acquired the infection in this manner; 66% of these infants expired. Transmission of virus from mothers, adults (including personnel) other than the mother, and other infants has been reported. In order to prevent this infrequent but life-threatening illness, separation of the newborn infant from any person with active lesions caused by herpes simplex virus is recommended.", "contents": "Postnatal acquisition of herpes simplex virus by the newborn infant: a review of the literature. The literature relating to the hazards of herpes simplex virus acquired by newborn infants after birth is reviewed. A total of 24 infants has been reported who have acquired the infection in this manner; 66% of these infants expired. Transmission of virus from mothers, adults (including personnel) other than the mother, and other infants has been reported. In order to prevent this infrequent but life-threatening illness, separation of the newborn infant from any person with active lesions caused by herpes simplex virus is recommended.", "PMID": 440848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5012", "title": "A decongestant-antihistamine mixture in the prevention of otitis media in children with colds.", "content": "One hundred four preschool-age patients in a private pediatric practice were treated prospectively during colds with either decongestant-antihistamine or placebo to determine if the decongestant-antihistamine mixture was effective in the prevention of otitis media. Each child received a standard dosage of the study medicine according to a double-blind, crossover design. Otitis media was diagnosed on the basis of clinical criteria. Fifteen (6.4%) of 234 colds treated with placebo and 14 (5.8%) of 241 colds treated with the study drug were followed by otitis. The decongestant-antihistamine mixture was not useful in preventing development of otitis media in children with colds.", "contents": "A decongestant-antihistamine mixture in the prevention of otitis media in children with colds. One hundred four preschool-age patients in a private pediatric practice were treated prospectively during colds with either decongestant-antihistamine or placebo to determine if the decongestant-antihistamine mixture was effective in the prevention of otitis media. Each child received a standard dosage of the study medicine according to a double-blind, crossover design. Otitis media was diagnosed on the basis of clinical criteria. Fifteen (6.4%) of 234 colds treated with placebo and 14 (5.8%) of 241 colds treated with the study drug were followed by otitis. The decongestant-antihistamine mixture was not useful in preventing development of otitis media in children with colds.", "PMID": 440849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5013", "title": "Emergency room utilization in the first 15 months of life: a randomized study.", "content": "The impact of a system of primary pediatric care on emergency room use in a municipal hospital was measured by comparing that use in two randomly selected populations. The population that was offered participation in a primary care program consistently used the emergency room less than did the control group. Analysis of the pattern of utilization revealed that the differences were limited to patients who actually participated in the program, and to weekday use of the emergency room. Unusually heavy (greater than ten visits per year) use of the emergency room was virtually eliminated among participants in the primary care program.", "contents": "Emergency room utilization in the first 15 months of life: a randomized study. The impact of a system of primary pediatric care on emergency room use in a municipal hospital was measured by comparing that use in two randomly selected populations. The population that was offered participation in a primary care program consistently used the emergency room less than did the control group. Analysis of the pattern of utilization revealed that the differences were limited to patients who actually participated in the program, and to weekday use of the emergency room. Unusually heavy (greater than ten visits per year) use of the emergency room was virtually eliminated among participants in the primary care program.", "PMID": 440850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5014", "title": "Attitudes and interpersonal skills during pediatric internship.", "content": "The initial phases of a program for analyzing interpersonal skills and attitudes and personal adaptation of pediatric interns at a high-pressure tertiary care hospital are described. Interns found internship stressful and less satisfying in many regards than they expected. They were often unable to cope adaptively with the stresses encountered. There were indications of worsening attitudes toward aspects of patient care. However, interns' confidence increased during the year. A videotape vignette test of interpersonal sensitivity showed no change in sensitivity from beginning to end of the year. Videotapes of interns' visits with clinic outpatients made at three points during the year also showed no improvement in interpersonal or communication skills or attention to psychosocial issues. While parents were generally satisfied with the visit, interns lacked skills in some of these areas. None of the data collected, including sex, marital status, and pre-admission rank by the selection committee, predicted end-of-year performance rating by the chief residents. Sex and marital status were also uncorrelated with measured skills and attitudes.", "contents": "Attitudes and interpersonal skills during pediatric internship. The initial phases of a program for analyzing interpersonal skills and attitudes and personal adaptation of pediatric interns at a high-pressure tertiary care hospital are described. Interns found internship stressful and less satisfying in many regards than they expected. They were often unable to cope adaptively with the stresses encountered. There were indications of worsening attitudes toward aspects of patient care. However, interns' confidence increased during the year. A videotape vignette test of interpersonal sensitivity showed no change in sensitivity from beginning to end of the year. Videotapes of interns' visits with clinic outpatients made at three points during the year also showed no improvement in interpersonal or communication skills or attention to psychosocial issues. While parents were generally satisfied with the visit, interns lacked skills in some of these areas. None of the data collected, including sex, marital status, and pre-admission rank by the selection committee, predicted end-of-year performance rating by the chief residents. Sex and marital status were also uncorrelated with measured skills and attitudes.", "PMID": 440851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5015", "title": "The Alice in Wonderland syndrome in juvenile migraine.", "content": "Two children are reported who had recurrent attacks of impairment of time sense, body image, and visual analysis of the environment. These occurred with a clear state of consciousness and in the absence of any evidence of an encephalitic process, seizures, drug ingestion, or psychiatric illness. Both children had recurrent headaches; one was clearly migrainous. There was a family history of migraine in both cases. These children represent examples of the Alice in Wonderland syndrome in juvenile migraine.", "contents": "The Alice in Wonderland syndrome in juvenile migraine. Two children are reported who had recurrent attacks of impairment of time sense, body image, and visual analysis of the environment. These occurred with a clear state of consciousness and in the absence of any evidence of an encephalitic process, seizures, drug ingestion, or psychiatric illness. Both children had recurrent headaches; one was clearly migrainous. There was a family history of migraine in both cases. These children represent examples of the Alice in Wonderland syndrome in juvenile migraine.", "PMID": 440858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5016", "title": "Jimson \"loco\" weed abuse in adolescents.", "content": "Over a three-year period, 29 adolescent patients were hospitalized because of intentional Jimson weed ingestion. Their records were reviewed for the presence of signs and symptoms of atropine/scopolamine toxicity clinical course, treatment, and outcome. Twenty-two were male and seven were female. All had mydriasis, hallucinations, and were disoriented. Tachycardia (heart rate greater than 95), dry mucous membranes, and flushed facies were often present. Urinary retention requiring catheterization was present in five patients. Sixty-five percent (17/26) had detectable atropine or scopolamine in their urine. The average length of hospitalization was 1.8 days. No serious complications were encountered during hospitalization and full recovery were noted in all patients. Gastric lavage and hospital admission for close monitoring and medical support are essential phases of management. Physicians who care for adolescents should be aware of this relatively new form of drug abuse and its management.", "contents": "Jimson \"loco\" weed abuse in adolescents. Over a three-year period, 29 adolescent patients were hospitalized because of intentional Jimson weed ingestion. Their records were reviewed for the presence of signs and symptoms of atropine/scopolamine toxicity clinical course, treatment, and outcome. Twenty-two were male and seven were female. All had mydriasis, hallucinations, and were disoriented. Tachycardia (heart rate greater than 95), dry mucous membranes, and flushed facies were often present. Urinary retention requiring catheterization was present in five patients. Sixty-five percent (17/26) had detectable atropine or scopolamine in their urine. The average length of hospitalization was 1.8 days. No serious complications were encountered during hospitalization and full recovery were noted in all patients. Gastric lavage and hospital admission for close monitoring and medical support are essential phases of management. Physicians who care for adolescents should be aware of this relatively new form of drug abuse and its management.", "PMID": 440859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5017", "title": "Ganglioneuroblastoma and fetal hydantoin-alcohol syndromes.", "content": "A ganglioneuroblastoma developed in a 35-month-old boy with both the fetal hydantoin and fetal alcohol syndromes. Our case, plus two recent reports in the literature, would very likely establish the relationship between fetal hydantoin syndrome and the development of neural crest tumors. Infants exposed in utero to hydantoins should be closely observed for the development of these tumors.", "contents": "Ganglioneuroblastoma and fetal hydantoin-alcohol syndromes. A ganglioneuroblastoma developed in a 35-month-old boy with both the fetal hydantoin and fetal alcohol syndromes. Our case, plus two recent reports in the literature, would very likely establish the relationship between fetal hydantoin syndrome and the development of neural crest tumors. Infants exposed in utero to hydantoins should be closely observed for the development of these tumors.", "PMID": 440860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5018", "title": "Effect of supine and prone positions on arterial oxygen tension in the preterm infant.", "content": "To determine the optimal position for the preterm infant, arterial oxygen tension (Pao2) was monitored in 16 preterm infants by the transcutaneous method with the infants in both supine and prone positions. When the infants were prone, Pao2 rose by a mean of 7.4 mm Hg (P less than .001), an increase of 15%. In those infants with residual cardiopulmonary disease a 25% increase was noted. The higher Pao2 in the prone position was accompanied by a significant decrease in the amount of time the chest wall moved asynchronously. This improved oxygenation in the prone position appears to be the result of enhanced ventilation/perfusion ratios and not merely secondary to an alteration in sleep state with positioning of the infant. These findings may have important implications in the management of preterm infants, requiring neonatal intensive care.", "contents": "Effect of supine and prone positions on arterial oxygen tension in the preterm infant. To determine the optimal position for the preterm infant, arterial oxygen tension (Pao2) was monitored in 16 preterm infants by the transcutaneous method with the infants in both supine and prone positions. When the infants were prone, Pao2 rose by a mean of 7.4 mm Hg (P less than .001), an increase of 15%. In those infants with residual cardiopulmonary disease a 25% increase was noted. The higher Pao2 in the prone position was accompanied by a significant decrease in the amount of time the chest wall moved asynchronously. This improved oxygenation in the prone position appears to be the result of enhanced ventilation/perfusion ratios and not merely secondary to an alteration in sleep state with positioning of the infant. These findings may have important implications in the management of preterm infants, requiring neonatal intensive care.", "PMID": 440861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5019", "title": "Effect of posture on the pattern of stomach emptying in the newborn.", "content": "To determine the effect of posture on the pattern of neonatal stomach emptying, 56 test meals of a 10% dextrose were given to 14 healthy infants over a period of two or three consecutive days. The infants, whose postnatal age ranged between 5 and 27 days, were studied in each of four positions. The emptying pattern was determined by the double-sampling dye-technique. The results indicate that there are no significant postural differences in the pattern of stomach emptying. They also indicate that neonatal and adult patterns are similar.", "contents": "Effect of posture on the pattern of stomach emptying in the newborn. To determine the effect of posture on the pattern of neonatal stomach emptying, 56 test meals of a 10% dextrose were given to 14 healthy infants over a period of two or three consecutive days. The infants, whose postnatal age ranged between 5 and 27 days, were studied in each of four positions. The emptying pattern was determined by the double-sampling dye-technique. The results indicate that there are no significant postural differences in the pattern of stomach emptying. They also indicate that neonatal and adult patterns are similar.", "PMID": 440862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5020", "title": "Resting oxygen consumption of premature infants covered with a plastic thermal blanket.", "content": "Premature infants in single-wall incubators covered with \"thermal blankets\" made of plastic packing material have large reductions in insensible water loss (IWL) compared with naked infants. We postulated that such reductions inevaporative heat loss would not result in decreases in caloric expenditure if body temperature were maintained by a servocontrolled heat source. Using an open-circuit technique, we measured oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and abdominal skin (Tabd), cheek, thigh, rectal, incubator air, wall, and room air temperatures in ten infants less than 37 weeks gestational age and from 2 to 24 days of age both naked and covered with a plastic thermal blanket. Tabd temperature was maintained between 36.2 and 36.8 C and rectal temperature between 36.8 and 37.2 C in each environment by manual or automatic servocontrol. A \"resting state\" was defined by using a combination of subjective and objective criteria. The mean values of VO2 during the \"resting state\" were 7.31 and 7.59 cc/kg of body weight per minute for naked and covered infants, respectively. There were no significant differences between mean values of VCO2, respiratory quotient, HR, RR, abdominal, cheek, thigh, or rectal temperatures in the two environments. Operant temperatures averaged 0.5 C lower when the infants were covered. These data support the hypothesis that decreases in insensible water loss do not necessarily imply reductions in caloric requirements in infants where Tabd is maintained by servocontrol.", "contents": "Resting oxygen consumption of premature infants covered with a plastic thermal blanket. Premature infants in single-wall incubators covered with \"thermal blankets\" made of plastic packing material have large reductions in insensible water loss (IWL) compared with naked infants. We postulated that such reductions inevaporative heat loss would not result in decreases in caloric expenditure if body temperature were maintained by a servocontrolled heat source. Using an open-circuit technique, we measured oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and abdominal skin (Tabd), cheek, thigh, rectal, incubator air, wall, and room air temperatures in ten infants less than 37 weeks gestational age and from 2 to 24 days of age both naked and covered with a plastic thermal blanket. Tabd temperature was maintained between 36.2 and 36.8 C and rectal temperature between 36.8 and 37.2 C in each environment by manual or automatic servocontrol. A \"resting state\" was defined by using a combination of subjective and objective criteria. The mean values of VO2 during the \"resting state\" were 7.31 and 7.59 cc/kg of body weight per minute for naked and covered infants, respectively. There were no significant differences between mean values of VCO2, respiratory quotient, HR, RR, abdominal, cheek, thigh, or rectal temperatures in the two environments. Operant temperatures averaged 0.5 C lower when the infants were covered. These data support the hypothesis that decreases in insensible water loss do not necessarily imply reductions in caloric requirements in infants where Tabd is maintained by servocontrol.", "PMID": 440864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5021", "title": "Psychological management of acute paraplegia in adolescence.", "content": "Important management principles regarding emotional needs of the teenager with acute paraplegia during early hospitalization are discussed. One illustrative case is presented. Mourning reaction of the patient and family to this severe loss of bodily function is reviewed. Reaction of medical caretakers to this catastrophe is also discussed. It is emphasized that these concepts be applied by pediatricians in managing adolescent paraplegics.", "contents": "Psychological management of acute paraplegia in adolescence. Important management principles regarding emotional needs of the teenager with acute paraplegia during early hospitalization are discussed. One illustrative case is presented. Mourning reaction of the patient and family to this severe loss of bodily function is reviewed. Reaction of medical caretakers to this catastrophe is also discussed. It is emphasized that these concepts be applied by pediatricians in managing adolescent paraplegics.", "PMID": 440865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5022", "title": "School health experience before and after completion of pediatric training.", "content": "A questionnaire regarding school health training and current school-based activities was completed by 116 of 141 young pediatricians practicing in four southwestern states. Responses indicated that few (22.4%) were exposed to school health during their residencies, although most (65.5%) are now providing some school health services. Those who had had school health training during residency are much more likely to be providing services than those who did not. Likewise, during their residencies, few received instruction in methods of health education, though many, led again by those who had appropriate residency experience, now participate in school health education programs. Residency programs should provide training in school health to improve the physician's comfort and efficiency in the roles he is presently asked to play, and to increase his involvement in this critically important area of pediatrics.", "contents": "School health experience before and after completion of pediatric training. A questionnaire regarding school health training and current school-based activities was completed by 116 of 141 young pediatricians practicing in four southwestern states. Responses indicated that few (22.4%) were exposed to school health during their residencies, although most (65.5%) are now providing some school health services. Those who had had school health training during residency are much more likely to be providing services than those who did not. Likewise, during their residencies, few received instruction in methods of health education, though many, led again by those who had appropriate residency experience, now participate in school health education programs. Residency programs should provide training in school health to improve the physician's comfort and efficiency in the roles he is presently asked to play, and to increase his involvement in this critically important area of pediatrics.", "PMID": 440866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5023", "title": "Physiologic determinants of serum urate levels in adolescence.", "content": "During adolescence, serum urate increases and adult levels are achieved. Physiologic factors related to serum urate were investigated in a nationally representative population of 6,768 youths aged 12 to 17 years (the US Health Examination Survey). Serum urate concentration increases markedly from ages 12 to 14 years in males, and levels were related to sexual and skeletal maturation. Although similar relationships were observed in females, the association is less striking, probably because of earlier pubescence, which was not captured in this study, and a pronounced androgenic response. In the later stages of adolescence (ages 15 to 17 years for males and 13 to 17 years for females), body composition (body mass index and skinfold thickness), blood pressure, and hematocrit have stronger relationships than sexual and somatic maturation. These latter relationships are similar to those in adults. This survey affords a portrayal of physiologic interrelationships with serum uric acid during adolescence.", "contents": "Physiologic determinants of serum urate levels in adolescence. During adolescence, serum urate increases and adult levels are achieved. Physiologic factors related to serum urate were investigated in a nationally representative population of 6,768 youths aged 12 to 17 years (the US Health Examination Survey). Serum urate concentration increases markedly from ages 12 to 14 years in males, and levels were related to sexual and skeletal maturation. Although similar relationships were observed in females, the association is less striking, probably because of earlier pubescence, which was not captured in this study, and a pronounced androgenic response. In the later stages of adolescence (ages 15 to 17 years for males and 13 to 17 years for females), body composition (body mass index and skinfold thickness), blood pressure, and hematocrit have stronger relationships than sexual and somatic maturation. These latter relationships are similar to those in adults. This survey affords a portrayal of physiologic interrelationships with serum uric acid during adolescence.", "PMID": 440867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5024", "title": "Hypoelectrolytemia and metabolic alkalosis in infants with cystic fibrosis.", "content": "The records of all children in the Tucson area diagnosed as having cystic fibrosis (CF) before the age of 12 months were reviewed to ascertain the prevalence of metabolic alkalosis as a major presenting manifestation of CF. Five of eleven infants (46%) in whom CF had been diagnosed between 1 and 12 months of age initially were seen with hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and metabolic alkalosis unassociated with marked dehydration, hyperpyrexia, or major pulmonary and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. Two infants had repeated episodes of metabolic alkalosis; for one of these infants, both episodes of metabolic alkalosis occurred before the diagnosis of CF. It is postulated that chronic loss of sweat electrolytes together with mild gastrointestinal or respiratory illness may predispose the infant with cystic fibrosis to a severe electrolyte and acid-base disturbance. The lack of shock and hyperpyrexia together with the apparent chronicity of electrolyte losses differentiates metabolic alkalosis from the heat prostration syndrome, a more acute complication of cystic fibrosis. Quantitative sweat testing should be part of the evaluation of any infant with unexplained metabolic alkalosis. Serum electrolytes should be assessed regularly in infants with cystic fibrosis during hot weather months.", "contents": "Hypoelectrolytemia and metabolic alkalosis in infants with cystic fibrosis. The records of all children in the Tucson area diagnosed as having cystic fibrosis (CF) before the age of 12 months were reviewed to ascertain the prevalence of metabolic alkalosis as a major presenting manifestation of CF. Five of eleven infants (46%) in whom CF had been diagnosed between 1 and 12 months of age initially were seen with hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and metabolic alkalosis unassociated with marked dehydration, hyperpyrexia, or major pulmonary and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. Two infants had repeated episodes of metabolic alkalosis; for one of these infants, both episodes of metabolic alkalosis occurred before the diagnosis of CF. It is postulated that chronic loss of sweat electrolytes together with mild gastrointestinal or respiratory illness may predispose the infant with cystic fibrosis to a severe electrolyte and acid-base disturbance. The lack of shock and hyperpyrexia together with the apparent chronicity of electrolyte losses differentiates metabolic alkalosis from the heat prostration syndrome, a more acute complication of cystic fibrosis. Quantitative sweat testing should be part of the evaluation of any infant with unexplained metabolic alkalosis. Serum electrolytes should be assessed regularly in infants with cystic fibrosis during hot weather months.", "PMID": 440868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5025", "title": "Accidental childhood iron poisoning: a problem of marketing and labeling.", "content": "Accidental iron poisoning still represents a significant hazard in children less than 5 years of age. The problem is compounded by the attractiveness of dosage forms, their high availability, and ambiguities in product labeling. Manufacturers accentuate label ambiguity by not specifically designating the iron as being total elemental iron or iron compound. A list of products that contain iron has been prepared to help clarify this issue.", "contents": "Accidental childhood iron poisoning: a problem of marketing and labeling. Accidental iron poisoning still represents a significant hazard in children less than 5 years of age. The problem is compounded by the attractiveness of dosage forms, their high availability, and ambiguities in product labeling. Manufacturers accentuate label ambiguity by not specifically designating the iron as being total elemental iron or iron compound. A list of products that contain iron has been prepared to help clarify this issue.", "PMID": 440869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5026", "title": "Transmission of hepatitis B virus infection by asymptomatic chronic HBsAg carrier mothers.", "content": "The courses of 18 children born to 13 chronic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier mothers were followed prospectively for serological and biochemical evidence of type B hepatitis. Three children developed transient HBsAg positivity accompanied by the appearance of antibody to the hepatitis B core antigen. Two others had no detectable HBsAg but developed antibody to HBsAg. These serological manifestations of hepatitis B virus infection occurred late--6 to 24 months after birth. None of the children had clinical evidence of hepatitis and none became chronic HBsAg carriers. The infrequency of transmission of infection, the mild course of disease, and the lack of persistence of HBsAg in these children probably reflected the low level of infectivity of the chronic carrier mothers and perhaps the healthy immunologic status of the children.", "contents": "Transmission of hepatitis B virus infection by asymptomatic chronic HBsAg carrier mothers. The courses of 18 children born to 13 chronic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier mothers were followed prospectively for serological and biochemical evidence of type B hepatitis. Three children developed transient HBsAg positivity accompanied by the appearance of antibody to the hepatitis B core antigen. Two others had no detectable HBsAg but developed antibody to HBsAg. These serological manifestations of hepatitis B virus infection occurred late--6 to 24 months after birth. None of the children had clinical evidence of hepatitis and none became chronic HBsAg carriers. The infrequency of transmission of infection, the mild course of disease, and the lack of persistence of HBsAg in these children probably reflected the low level of infectivity of the chronic carrier mothers and perhaps the healthy immunologic status of the children.", "PMID": 440870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5027", "title": "Repeated naloxone administration for morphine overdose in a 1-month-old infant.", "content": "Repeated injections of naloxone by hydrochloride, a pure narcotic antagonist, were administered to a 3,320-gm 4-week-old boy for treatment of an accidental morphine overdose. The infant received frequent naloxone hydrochloride injections (0.2 mg per injection) during the first 12 hours of therapy to reverse morphine-induced apnea, hypothermia, and flaccidity. A cumulative dose of 2.73 mg of naloxone hydrochloride (0.822 mg/kg) was administered over 27 hours without apparent adverse effect or evidence of toxicity.", "contents": "Repeated naloxone administration for morphine overdose in a 1-month-old infant. Repeated injections of naloxone by hydrochloride, a pure narcotic antagonist, were administered to a 3,320-gm 4-week-old boy for treatment of an accidental morphine overdose. The infant received frequent naloxone hydrochloride injections (0.2 mg per injection) during the first 12 hours of therapy to reverse morphine-induced apnea, hypothermia, and flaccidity. A cumulative dose of 2.73 mg of naloxone hydrochloride (0.822 mg/kg) was administered over 27 hours without apparent adverse effect or evidence of toxicity.", "PMID": 440871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5028", "title": "Dystonia associated with carbamazepine administration: experience in brain-damaged children.", "content": "Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant most effective in treating complex partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. We have cared for three children in whom four episodes of dystonia proceeding to opisthotonus occurred in association with carbamazepine use. The patients, a 4-year-old with microcephaly and severe retardation, a 1-year-old with cerebral dysgenesis, and a 5-year-old with spastic quadriplegia and mild retardation, all had seizures unresponsive to multiple anticonvulsant combinations. In all three patients carbamazepine was introduced and gradually increased to a maximum dosage of 25 mg/kg of body weight per day. Dystonic symptoms began two to three weeks after introduction of therapy and subsided within three weeks after discontinuation. In one child, a second course of carbamazepine resulted in a return of the dystonia. The currently available clinical and neuropharmacologic data suggest that carbamazepine may be an antagonist of dopamine and that this property is responsible for the production of dystonia.", "contents": "Dystonia associated with carbamazepine administration: experience in brain-damaged children. Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant most effective in treating complex partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. We have cared for three children in whom four episodes of dystonia proceeding to opisthotonus occurred in association with carbamazepine use. The patients, a 4-year-old with microcephaly and severe retardation, a 1-year-old with cerebral dysgenesis, and a 5-year-old with spastic quadriplegia and mild retardation, all had seizures unresponsive to multiple anticonvulsant combinations. In all three patients carbamazepine was introduced and gradually increased to a maximum dosage of 25 mg/kg of body weight per day. Dystonic symptoms began two to three weeks after introduction of therapy and subsided within three weeks after discontinuation. In one child, a second course of carbamazepine resulted in a return of the dystonia. The currently available clinical and neuropharmacologic data suggest that carbamazepine may be an antagonist of dopamine and that this property is responsible for the production of dystonia.", "PMID": 440873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5029", "title": "Psychologic adjustment of siblings of children with chronic illness.", "content": "Although numerous references are made to the stressful, deleterious effects of chronic or terminal illnesses and handicaps on the siblings of pediatric patients, very few studies have been conducted using comparison groups. The present study compared the adjustment of 3- to 13-year-old siblings of pediatric hematology (N = 62), cardiology (N = 57), and plastic surgery patients (N = 37) with healthy siblings (N = 46). The adjustment measure was an objective, paper-and-pencil measure of children's emotional and behavioral problems, the Louisville Behavior Checklist. On analyses of covariance, the patient groups were more likely to show symptoms of irritability and social withdrawal, and the differences between illness groups approached significance on measures of fear and inhibition. Among the younger children, ages 3 to 6, there were significant group differences, with the siblings of patients undergoing plastic surgery showing the highest level of general psychopathology. Among children ages 7 to 13, male siblings of patients with blood disorders were more likely to show signs of emotional disturbance than female siblings. No group differences were noted on measures of aggression or learning problems. Significant interactions between sex and age relationship to the child were noted on scales of social withdrawal, inhibition, immaturity, and irritability.", "contents": "Psychologic adjustment of siblings of children with chronic illness. Although numerous references are made to the stressful, deleterious effects of chronic or terminal illnesses and handicaps on the siblings of pediatric patients, very few studies have been conducted using comparison groups. The present study compared the adjustment of 3- to 13-year-old siblings of pediatric hematology (N = 62), cardiology (N = 57), and plastic surgery patients (N = 37) with healthy siblings (N = 46). The adjustment measure was an objective, paper-and-pencil measure of children's emotional and behavioral problems, the Louisville Behavior Checklist. On analyses of covariance, the patient groups were more likely to show symptoms of irritability and social withdrawal, and the differences between illness groups approached significance on measures of fear and inhibition. Among the younger children, ages 3 to 6, there were significant group differences, with the siblings of patients undergoing plastic surgery showing the highest level of general psychopathology. Among children ages 7 to 13, male siblings of patients with blood disorders were more likely to show signs of emotional disturbance than female siblings. No group differences were noted on measures of aggression or learning problems. Significant interactions between sex and age relationship to the child were noted on scales of social withdrawal, inhibition, immaturity, and irritability.", "PMID": 440874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5030", "title": "Purulent ocular discharge in neonates: significance of Chlamydia trachomatis.", "content": "We obtained cultures for bacteria and chlamydiae from 100 infants with conjunctivitis that began during the first month of life. Sixty-nine infants were evaluated during well-child visits (group A); 31 were seen specifically for the ocular discharge (group B). Potentially pathogenic bacteria, predominantly Staphylococcus aureus, were cultured from one third of the infants in each group. Chlamydia trachomatis was recovered from three infants (4%) in group A and from ten (32%) in group B. Three infants with chlamydial conjunctivitis (two in group A, one in group B) had only mild inflammation. Initial treatment with topical antibiotics was unsuccessful in eliminating the organism from seven of 11 infants.", "contents": "Purulent ocular discharge in neonates: significance of Chlamydia trachomatis. We obtained cultures for bacteria and chlamydiae from 100 infants with conjunctivitis that began during the first month of life. Sixty-nine infants were evaluated during well-child visits (group A); 31 were seen specifically for the ocular discharge (group B). Potentially pathogenic bacteria, predominantly Staphylococcus aureus, were cultured from one third of the infants in each group. Chlamydia trachomatis was recovered from three infants (4%) in group A and from ten (32%) in group B. Three infants with chlamydial conjunctivitis (two in group A, one in group B) had only mild inflammation. Initial treatment with topical antibiotics was unsuccessful in eliminating the organism from seven of 11 infants.", "PMID": 440875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5031", "title": "Variations in utilization of health services by children.", "content": "In this longitudinal study in two prepaid group practices, many more children stayed at the same level of use of services over a six- to ten-year period than would be expected if use of services had distributed randomly. Overall, about 13% remained consistently in the highest third of the distribution of use, and another 13% remained consistently in the middle or lowest third. If use of services had distributed randomly, 4% and 7%, respectively, would have been in these groups. Conversely, many fewer children (25%) showed fluctuating patterns of use over time than would be expected by chance alone (37%). Although the reasons for this phenomenon are unknown (and may be multiple), the findings have implications both for clinical care and for development of policy regarding the organization and financing of health services for children.", "contents": "Variations in utilization of health services by children. In this longitudinal study in two prepaid group practices, many more children stayed at the same level of use of services over a six- to ten-year period than would be expected if use of services had distributed randomly. Overall, about 13% remained consistently in the highest third of the distribution of use, and another 13% remained consistently in the middle or lowest third. If use of services had distributed randomly, 4% and 7%, respectively, would have been in these groups. Conversely, many fewer children (25%) showed fluctuating patterns of use over time than would be expected by chance alone (37%). Although the reasons for this phenomenon are unknown (and may be multiple), the findings have implications both for clinical care and for development of policy regarding the organization and financing of health services for children.", "PMID": 440876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5032", "title": "Lactobezoar formation associated with high-density caloric formula.", "content": "Two cases of lactobezoar formation were seen in premature low-birth-weight infants in a 24 cal/oz formula fortified with medium-chain triglycerides and glucose polymers given by continuous nasogastric infusion. Medical management included cessation of oral feedings and increased hydration and led to a rapid dissolution of the problem. The use of this preparation in small low-birth-weight infants is not recommended as an initial formula, and it should only be used when oral feedings have been well tolerated in a growing premature infant.", "contents": "Lactobezoar formation associated with high-density caloric formula. Two cases of lactobezoar formation were seen in premature low-birth-weight infants in a 24 cal/oz formula fortified with medium-chain triglycerides and glucose polymers given by continuous nasogastric infusion. Medical management included cessation of oral feedings and increased hydration and led to a rapid dissolution of the problem. The use of this preparation in small low-birth-weight infants is not recommended as an initial formula, and it should only be used when oral feedings have been well tolerated in a growing premature infant.", "PMID": 440877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5033", "title": "Effect of safety packaging on aspirin ingestion by children.", "content": "The effectiveness of child-resistant closures, required under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970, in reducing the incidence of accidental ingestion of aspirin and aspirin-containing products among children less than 5 years of age has been investigated. Data from Poison Control Centers and the National Center for Health Statistics were analyzed to determine the ingestion level before and two to three years after safety closures were required. Baby aspirin and nonbaby aspirin products were analyzed separately. For baby aspirin. It is estimated that safety packaging has reduced the incidence of ingestions 45% to 55%. For nonbaby aspirin products, the reduction has been 40% to 45%.", "contents": "Effect of safety packaging on aspirin ingestion by children. The effectiveness of child-resistant closures, required under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970, in reducing the incidence of accidental ingestion of aspirin and aspirin-containing products among children less than 5 years of age has been investigated. Data from Poison Control Centers and the National Center for Health Statistics were analyzed to determine the ingestion level before and two to three years after safety closures were required. Baby aspirin and nonbaby aspirin products were analyzed separately. For baby aspirin. It is estimated that safety packaging has reduced the incidence of ingestions 45% to 55%. For nonbaby aspirin products, the reduction has been 40% to 45%.", "PMID": 440889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5034", "title": "Intellectual development and familial dysautonomia.", "content": "The study examined adaptive trends in cognitive development among individuals with familial dysautonomia and sought to establish new base rates of intelligence for the dysautonomic population. Fifty-two subjects, aged 6 to 28 years, were administered the Wechsler scales of intelligence. The results indicate that there is less cognitive impairment than previous research would suggest, and that more dysautonomic children are capable of adjusting to standard school programs than was heretofore thought possible. Specific deficits seen in this population are discussed along with a rationale for deleting the term retarded where most of these individuals are concerned.", "contents": "Intellectual development and familial dysautonomia. The study examined adaptive trends in cognitive development among individuals with familial dysautonomia and sought to establish new base rates of intelligence for the dysautonomic population. Fifty-two subjects, aged 6 to 28 years, were administered the Wechsler scales of intelligence. The results indicate that there is less cognitive impairment than previous research would suggest, and that more dysautonomic children are capable of adjusting to standard school programs than was heretofore thought possible. Specific deficits seen in this population are discussed along with a rationale for deleting the term retarded where most of these individuals are concerned.", "PMID": 440890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5035", "title": "Food intake and growth of children between 30 and 48 months of age in Jerusalem.", "content": "The food intake and body size of a sample of children from a western neighborhood of Jerusalem were determined at 30, 36, and 48 months of age. The mean caloric intake was below the 100% of the Recommended dietary allowance (RDA). The percentage of children receiving less than 100% of the RDA increased slightly with age. Less than 20% of the children had intakes below 60% of the RDA. The mean protein intake was 200% of the RDA. Iron intake met the World Health Organization recommendations. The heme component of the iron intake decreased with age. The mean protein and caloric intake increased as the mother's educational level increased. The weight and height distribution of this population does not differ significantly from the US reference population. At 48 months of age, the children are heavy for their height. Some difficulties of dietary intake studies and the association between food intake and growth are discussed.", "contents": "Food intake and growth of children between 30 and 48 months of age in Jerusalem. The food intake and body size of a sample of children from a western neighborhood of Jerusalem were determined at 30, 36, and 48 months of age. The mean caloric intake was below the 100% of the Recommended dietary allowance (RDA). The percentage of children receiving less than 100% of the RDA increased slightly with age. Less than 20% of the children had intakes below 60% of the RDA. The mean protein intake was 200% of the RDA. Iron intake met the World Health Organization recommendations. The heme component of the iron intake decreased with age. The mean protein and caloric intake increased as the mother's educational level increased. The weight and height distribution of this population does not differ significantly from the US reference population. At 48 months of age, the children are heavy for their height. Some difficulties of dietary intake studies and the association between food intake and growth are discussed.", "PMID": 440891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5036", "title": "Apnea recordings of healthy infants at 40, 44, and 52 weeks postconception.", "content": "A total of 129 recordings of the respiratory activity of 46 normal full-term infants were obtained continuously for 24 hours in the hospital nursery at 3 days of life and in the home environment at 4 weeks and 12 weeks after birth. The pediatric pneumogram (PPG) technique, an impedance method, was used. Pneumogram data over longer than 16 hours was obtained on 77% of infants monitored. No infants experienced apnea longer than 15 seconds in duration at 40 and 44 weeks postconception, or greater than 11 seconds at 52 weeks postconception. Twenty-four hour plots of hourly apnea frequency revealed a marked variability, with evidence of clustering of apneic episodes during periods of reported sleep. Longest apnea time and hourly frequency of apneic episodes were highly correlated.", "contents": "Apnea recordings of healthy infants at 40, 44, and 52 weeks postconception. A total of 129 recordings of the respiratory activity of 46 normal full-term infants were obtained continuously for 24 hours in the hospital nursery at 3 days of life and in the home environment at 4 weeks and 12 weeks after birth. The pediatric pneumogram (PPG) technique, an impedance method, was used. Pneumogram data over longer than 16 hours was obtained on 77% of infants monitored. No infants experienced apnea longer than 15 seconds in duration at 40 and 44 weeks postconception, or greater than 11 seconds at 52 weeks postconception. Twenty-four hour plots of hourly apnea frequency revealed a marked variability, with evidence of clustering of apneic episodes during periods of reported sleep. Longest apnea time and hourly frequency of apneic episodes were highly correlated.", "PMID": 440893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5037", "title": "Lung function in adolescents receiving high-dose methotrexate.", "content": "Methotrexate (MTX) has been implicated as a cause of interstitial pneumonitis and/or fibrosis, but the mechanism by which the drug causes these processes is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients receiving high-dose MTX developed a consistent decrease in pulmonary function, which would implicate a role for total dose of MTX received in the pathogenesis of the lung toxicity. Pulmonary function studies, including spirometry, plethysmography, and diffusing capacity at two levels of alveolar PO2, were performed in 38 adolescents treated for osteogenic sarcoma. The patients were divided into three groups including 12 patients (group 1) studied before and during therapy, 15 patients (group 2) studied during therapy, and 11 patients (group 3) studied after completion of treatment. While total dose received at the time of the study varied from 0 to 256 gm/sq m, pulmonary function showed no change, with one exception. A mild restrictive defect and decrease in diffusing capacity due to unilateral pleural and diaphragmatic disease, whose relationship to MTX therapy is uncertain, developed in one patient. MTX, when administered in high dose to young patients by the described protocol, causes no dose-related decrease in pulmonary function.", "contents": "Lung function in adolescents receiving high-dose methotrexate. Methotrexate (MTX) has been implicated as a cause of interstitial pneumonitis and/or fibrosis, but the mechanism by which the drug causes these processes is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients receiving high-dose MTX developed a consistent decrease in pulmonary function, which would implicate a role for total dose of MTX received in the pathogenesis of the lung toxicity. Pulmonary function studies, including spirometry, plethysmography, and diffusing capacity at two levels of alveolar PO2, were performed in 38 adolescents treated for osteogenic sarcoma. The patients were divided into three groups including 12 patients (group 1) studied before and during therapy, 15 patients (group 2) studied during therapy, and 11 patients (group 3) studied after completion of treatment. While total dose received at the time of the study varied from 0 to 256 gm/sq m, pulmonary function showed no change, with one exception. A mild restrictive defect and decrease in diffusing capacity due to unilateral pleural and diaphragmatic disease, whose relationship to MTX therapy is uncertain, developed in one patient. MTX, when administered in high dose to young patients by the described protocol, causes no dose-related decrease in pulmonary function.", "PMID": 440894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5038", "title": "Cloprednol therapy in steroid-dependent asthma.", "content": "Cloprednol is a new oral corticosteroid with a short half-life that is presently under investigation for use in asthma. Seventeen steroid-dependent children and adolescents were switched from daily treatment with prednisone to cloprednol for a one-year study. Patients showed a statistically significant improvement in symptoms while receiving cloprednol therapy. Two patients had extraordinarily good responses. Growth trends, bone age, and chest roentgenograms were not remarkably changed by cloprednol. Pulmonary function was stable. There was a significant improvement in fasting morning cortisol levels and ability to respond to metyrapone and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge. Cloprednol appears to be a promising drug for steroid-dependent patients who require oral corticosteroid therapy.", "contents": "Cloprednol therapy in steroid-dependent asthma. Cloprednol is a new oral corticosteroid with a short half-life that is presently under investigation for use in asthma. Seventeen steroid-dependent children and adolescents were switched from daily treatment with prednisone to cloprednol for a one-year study. Patients showed a statistically significant improvement in symptoms while receiving cloprednol therapy. Two patients had extraordinarily good responses. Growth trends, bone age, and chest roentgenograms were not remarkably changed by cloprednol. Pulmonary function was stable. There was a significant improvement in fasting morning cortisol levels and ability to respond to metyrapone and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge. Cloprednol appears to be a promising drug for steroid-dependent patients who require oral corticosteroid therapy.", "PMID": 440895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5039", "title": "Long-term use of propranolol, ibuprofen, and spironolactone in the management of Bartter's syndrome.", "content": "This report concerns two patients with Bartter's syndrome who were treated with propranolol, spironolactone, and potassium supplements. When ibuprofen was added to this regimen, potassium supplements were no longer required. In both patients, plasma renin activity decreased, plasma volumes increased, and a \"catch-up\" in linear growth ensued. This report confirms others that indicate prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors are a useful adjunct in the therapy of Bartter's syndrome.", "contents": "Long-term use of propranolol, ibuprofen, and spironolactone in the management of Bartter's syndrome. This report concerns two patients with Bartter's syndrome who were treated with propranolol, spironolactone, and potassium supplements. When ibuprofen was added to this regimen, potassium supplements were no longer required. In both patients, plasma renin activity decreased, plasma volumes increased, and a \"catch-up\" in linear growth ensued. This report confirms others that indicate prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors are a useful adjunct in the therapy of Bartter's syndrome.", "PMID": 440896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5040", "title": "Ferrochelatase deficiency in an infant with anemia and growth delay.", "content": "A 5-month-old infant with hypochromic anemia and iron overload secondary to ferrochelatase (heme synthetase) deficiency is described. Decreased activity of iron-containing enzymes in the absence of any other proven cause is suggested as the main cause of the associated growth retardation.", "contents": "Ferrochelatase deficiency in an infant with anemia and growth delay. A 5-month-old infant with hypochromic anemia and iron overload secondary to ferrochelatase (heme synthetase) deficiency is described. Decreased activity of iron-containing enzymes in the absence of any other proven cause is suggested as the main cause of the associated growth retardation.", "PMID": 440897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5041", "title": "Cerebral cysticercosis.", "content": "A case of cerebral cysticercosis in an American child is described. The patient was only 2 years old and had never left the United States. Her symptoms began with febrile seizures and progressed to focal motor seizures. Cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis with eosinophilia, candle-guttering of the walls of the ventricles on pneumoencephalography, and a titer of 1:4,096 against cysticercosis antigen in her blood led to the diagnosis. Over a five-year follow-up period, the patient's course has been one of resolution of her symptoms, improvement in her electroencephalogram, and excellent seizure control with anticonvulsant therapy. Cysticercosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child who shows CSF pleocytosis with eosinophilia, particularly if accompanied by focal seizures.", "contents": "Cerebral cysticercosis. A case of cerebral cysticercosis in an American child is described. The patient was only 2 years old and had never left the United States. Her symptoms began with febrile seizures and progressed to focal motor seizures. Cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis with eosinophilia, candle-guttering of the walls of the ventricles on pneumoencephalography, and a titer of 1:4,096 against cysticercosis antigen in her blood led to the diagnosis. Over a five-year follow-up period, the patient's course has been one of resolution of her symptoms, improvement in her electroencephalogram, and excellent seizure control with anticonvulsant therapy. Cysticercosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child who shows CSF pleocytosis with eosinophilia, particularly if accompanied by focal seizures.", "PMID": 440898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5042", "title": "The frequency of pericardial effusions in bacterial meningitis.", "content": "Because of our experience with four cases of purulent pericarditis complicating bacterial meningitis during a 13-month period, we performed a prospective study to determine the frequency of this complication. Echocardiograms were done on 100 patients with bacterial meningitis. Small or moderate pericardial effusions were detected in 19 patients, but none had symptoms or signs related to the effusion. Pericardiocentesis was done in one infant; all the other effusions resolved spontaneously. Patients with effusion were significantly younger than those without this complication, but no other significant risk factors were identified. A literature survey indicated that symptomatic pericarditis occurs in fewer than 1% of patients with meningitis. Conversely, in series of cases of purulent pericarditis, associated meningitis was reported in 12% of patients. We concluded that pericardial infection is common in patients with meningitis but that it is usually of no clinical significance and resolves with antibiotic therapy.", "contents": "The frequency of pericardial effusions in bacterial meningitis. Because of our experience with four cases of purulent pericarditis complicating bacterial meningitis during a 13-month period, we performed a prospective study to determine the frequency of this complication. Echocardiograms were done on 100 patients with bacterial meningitis. Small or moderate pericardial effusions were detected in 19 patients, but none had symptoms or signs related to the effusion. Pericardiocentesis was done in one infant; all the other effusions resolved spontaneously. Patients with effusion were significantly younger than those without this complication, but no other significant risk factors were identified. A literature survey indicated that symptomatic pericarditis occurs in fewer than 1% of patients with meningitis. Conversely, in series of cases of purulent pericarditis, associated meningitis was reported in 12% of patients. We concluded that pericardial infection is common in patients with meningitis but that it is usually of no clinical significance and resolves with antibiotic therapy.", "PMID": 440899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5043", "title": "Left atrial myxoma: association with acute coronary embolization in an 11-year-old boy.", "content": "An 11-year-old boy had clinical signs of an acute inferior wall myocardial infarction. On echocardiography, a left atrial myxoma was demonstrated. Coronary artery embolization from myxoma was confirmed by selective coronary arteriography. The tumor was removed 12 days after acute coronary embolization. The clinical value of echocardiography is demonstrated in this report of a successful surgical excision of left atrial myxoma in a child with a myocardial infarction due to tumor embolization.", "contents": "Left atrial myxoma: association with acute coronary embolization in an 11-year-old boy. An 11-year-old boy had clinical signs of an acute inferior wall myocardial infarction. On echocardiography, a left atrial myxoma was demonstrated. Coronary artery embolization from myxoma was confirmed by selective coronary arteriography. The tumor was removed 12 days after acute coronary embolization. The clinical value of echocardiography is demonstrated in this report of a successful surgical excision of left atrial myxoma in a child with a myocardial infarction due to tumor embolization.", "PMID": 440900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5044", "title": "Inheritance of uncomplicated hypospadias.", "content": "Isolated first-degree hypospadias in three generations of one family and in two generations of two families is reported and the literature reviewed. Pedigree information suggests autosomal-dominant, sex-limited inheritance in these cases although other inheritance patterns are possible. Mendelian transmission of hypospadias may be more frequent than commonly believed and implies that the abnormality is potentially definable in molecular terms.", "contents": "Inheritance of uncomplicated hypospadias. Isolated first-degree hypospadias in three generations of one family and in two generations of two families is reported and the literature reviewed. Pedigree information suggests autosomal-dominant, sex-limited inheritance in these cases although other inheritance patterns are possible. Mendelian transmission of hypospadias may be more frequent than commonly believed and implies that the abnormality is potentially definable in molecular terms.", "PMID": 440901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5045", "title": "The right not to read.", "content": "Skill in reading is desirable. However, the importance of reading may be overemphasized in schools. Reading skills are determined relatively and not absolutely. Thus, relatively poor readers will persist. Schools cannot eradicate individual differences. Biological makeup and societal pressures are the important factors in determining reading skill. Present methods of reading remediation are of questionable efficacy and are traumatic to some children. Time with its associated normal development succeeds in remediating the majority of children with dyslexia. Most poor readers eventually attain reading levels that enable them to comprehend the types of printed materials commonly encountered. If a child finds reading difficult or distasteful, that child should be encouraged to read but should have the right not to be forced to read.", "contents": "The right not to read. Skill in reading is desirable. However, the importance of reading may be overemphasized in schools. Reading skills are determined relatively and not absolutely. Thus, relatively poor readers will persist. Schools cannot eradicate individual differences. Biological makeup and societal pressures are the important factors in determining reading skill. Present methods of reading remediation are of questionable efficacy and are traumatic to some children. Time with its associated normal development succeeds in remediating the majority of children with dyslexia. Most poor readers eventually attain reading levels that enable them to comprehend the types of printed materials commonly encountered. If a child finds reading difficult or distasteful, that child should be encouraged to read but should have the right not to be forced to read.", "PMID": 440902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5046", "title": "[Thyroid hemiagenesis (single thyroid lobe). 8 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Thyroid agenesis would appear to be a rare abnormality (50 cases, including 8 personal). In fact, it is a simple anatomical curiosity which may be found in the presence of any type of thyroid condition (simple goitre: 4 cases, thyrotoxicosis: 2 cases, cold nodule: 2 cases, as far as our own patients were concerned). Our 8 patients were all women, hemiagenesis being more commonly discovered in the female sex. In 2 patients the right lobe was absent, and the left in the other 6. In general, the abnormality affects the left lobe three times more commonly than the right. The differential diagnosis essentially lies with autonomic thyroid nodules, which are much more common, and isotope scanning provides the answer.", "contents": "[Thyroid hemiagenesis (single thyroid lobe). 8 cases (author's transl)]. Thyroid agenesis would appear to be a rare abnormality (50 cases, including 8 personal). In fact, it is a simple anatomical curiosity which may be found in the presence of any type of thyroid condition (simple goitre: 4 cases, thyrotoxicosis: 2 cases, cold nodule: 2 cases, as far as our own patients were concerned). Our 8 patients were all women, hemiagenesis being more commonly discovered in the female sex. In 2 patients the right lobe was absent, and the left in the other 6. In general, the abnormality affects the left lobe three times more commonly than the right. The differential diagnosis essentially lies with autonomic thyroid nodules, which are much more common, and isotope scanning provides the answer.", "PMID": 440944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5047", "title": "[Haemoperfusion on coated activited charcoal. Experience in French anti-poison centres based upon 60 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Sixty three sessions of haemoperfusion on coated activated charcoal were carried out in 60 cases of poisoning. The indications concerned 2 clinical situations: - massive poisoning with coma (by hypnotics or chlorine-containing solvents) with high extracellular concentrations of the toxic agent, with the aim of reducing the duration of the coma; - intoxications with a high mortality rate, such as those due to paraquat, colchicine, digitoxine, tricyclic antidepressants, and heavy metals, even when plasma levels were low in relation to the dose ingested. Such discordance may be related not only to predominantly intracellular fixation, but also to low intestinal absorption. The effectiveness of haemoperfusion was estimated in terms of the amount of toxic substance extracted, measured either indirectly by repeated calculation of the arteriovenous difference multiplied by the flow rate through the column, or directly by elution of the column. This method for the removal of toxic substances would not appear to be life-saving, is too costly for the extraction obtained and is not free from specific complications. Thrombocytopaenia remains an epiphenomenon, but the frequency of infection is significantly higher than with haemodialysis. An effective and safe method for the vascular extraction of poisons, particularly one favourising removal of toxic substances from intracellular localisation, remains to be found.", "contents": "[Haemoperfusion on coated activited charcoal. Experience in French anti-poison centres based upon 60 cases (author's transl)]. Sixty three sessions of haemoperfusion on coated activated charcoal were carried out in 60 cases of poisoning. The indications concerned 2 clinical situations: - massive poisoning with coma (by hypnotics or chlorine-containing solvents) with high extracellular concentrations of the toxic agent, with the aim of reducing the duration of the coma; - intoxications with a high mortality rate, such as those due to paraquat, colchicine, digitoxine, tricyclic antidepressants, and heavy metals, even when plasma levels were low in relation to the dose ingested. Such discordance may be related not only to predominantly intracellular fixation, but also to low intestinal absorption. The effectiveness of haemoperfusion was estimated in terms of the amount of toxic substance extracted, measured either indirectly by repeated calculation of the arteriovenous difference multiplied by the flow rate through the column, or directly by elution of the column. This method for the removal of toxic substances would not appear to be life-saving, is too costly for the extraction obtained and is not free from specific complications. Thrombocytopaenia remains an epiphenomenon, but the frequency of infection is significantly higher than with haemodialysis. An effective and safe method for the vascular extraction of poisons, particularly one favourising removal of toxic substances from intracellular localisation, remains to be found.", "PMID": 440945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5048", "title": "[Malabsorption syndrome during the initial phase of a case of severe rheumatoid purpura].", "content": "We report a case of severe Henoch syndrome in which the first manifestation was digestive with a prolonged and important intestinal malabsorption syndrome. The clinical, radiological and histological data allow to consider a malabsorption due to lesions of the chorion and submucosa probably secondary to the allergic vasculitis. The malabsorption syndrome, confirmed by the intestinal absorption tests, the study of which must be more systematic, seems to belong to the severe and polyvisceral forms of the Sch\u00f6nlein-Henoch syndrome.", "contents": "[Malabsorption syndrome during the initial phase of a case of severe rheumatoid purpura]. We report a case of severe Henoch syndrome in which the first manifestation was digestive with a prolonged and important intestinal malabsorption syndrome. The clinical, radiological and histological data allow to consider a malabsorption due to lesions of the chorion and submucosa probably secondary to the allergic vasculitis. The malabsorption syndrome, confirmed by the intestinal absorption tests, the study of which must be more systematic, seems to belong to the severe and polyvisceral forms of the Sch\u00f6nlein-Henoch syndrome.", "PMID": 440946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5049", "title": "[Total iliectomy with preservation of the lower limb (author's transl)].", "content": "We treated a chondro-sarcoma of the ilium by total resection of the hemipelvis preserving the lower limb. We describe our technique and give the fonctionnel result of this operation which we believe could in certain cases replace a hemipelvectomy.", "contents": "[Total iliectomy with preservation of the lower limb (author's transl)]. We treated a chondro-sarcoma of the ilium by total resection of the hemipelvis preserving the lower limb. We describe our technique and give the fonctionnel result of this operation which we believe could in certain cases replace a hemipelvectomy.", "PMID": 440947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5050", "title": "Regulation of hemopoiesis.", "content": "The development of in vitro cloning systems for populations of hemopoietic and lymphoid cells has enabled a family of specific regulatory macromolecules to be detected and characterized. These macromolecules control proliferation and differentiation in hemopoietic cell populations. Studies have demonstrated the complexity of the spectrum of molecules which are involved in the regulation of each group of hemopoietic cells. Heterogeneous subpopulations of molecules exist for each regulatory function and more than one molecular form exists for the various regulator molecules. While the cellular origin of many of these regulators has not been clearly demonstrated, it is apparent that hemopoietic populations themselves can be significant sources of both stimulatory and inhibitory regulators. In particular, there are now clear examples of regulatory interactions which occur in both directions between hemopoietic and lymphoid populations. While in no case a complete analysis of the control systems has been achieved, maintenance of homeostasis in hemopoietic systems is now better understood than for most other cell populations in the body. Further, with existing techniques, and in particular, the exploitation of the full potential of the semi-solid cloning systems, it is realistic to expect that a complete analysis of hemopoietic regulation can now be accomplished.", "contents": "Regulation of hemopoiesis. The development of in vitro cloning systems for populations of hemopoietic and lymphoid cells has enabled a family of specific regulatory macromolecules to be detected and characterized. These macromolecules control proliferation and differentiation in hemopoietic cell populations. Studies have demonstrated the complexity of the spectrum of molecules which are involved in the regulation of each group of hemopoietic cells. Heterogeneous subpopulations of molecules exist for each regulatory function and more than one molecular form exists for the various regulator molecules. While the cellular origin of many of these regulators has not been clearly demonstrated, it is apparent that hemopoietic populations themselves can be significant sources of both stimulatory and inhibitory regulators. In particular, there are now clear examples of regulatory interactions which occur in both directions between hemopoietic and lymphoid populations. While in no case a complete analysis of the control systems has been achieved, maintenance of homeostasis in hemopoietic systems is now better understood than for most other cell populations in the body. Further, with existing techniques, and in particular, the exploitation of the full potential of the semi-solid cloning systems, it is realistic to expect that a complete analysis of hemopoietic regulation can now be accomplished.", "PMID": 440957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5051", "title": "[Repeated sampling of rat polymorphonuclear leucocytes from the pleural cavity. Application for the study of leucocyte chemotaxis (author's transl)].", "content": "A method is described for allowing the sampling of a homogeneous population of polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) from the rat pleural cavity a well as a technique involving the use of a phase-contrast microscope and video-recording system to study the necrotaxis of rat PMN towards a single erythrocyte lysed by ruby-laser irradiation. This allows both the speed of the leucocytes and the degree of their chemotactic response to be determined. The advantages and disadvantages of the experimental technique are discussed along with its application to the study of in vitro and in vivo actions of various drugs on rat PMN chemotaxis.", "contents": "[Repeated sampling of rat polymorphonuclear leucocytes from the pleural cavity. Application for the study of leucocyte chemotaxis (author's transl)]. A method is described for allowing the sampling of a homogeneous population of polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) from the rat pleural cavity a well as a technique involving the use of a phase-contrast microscope and video-recording system to study the necrotaxis of rat PMN towards a single erythrocyte lysed by ruby-laser irradiation. This allows both the speed of the leucocytes and the degree of their chemotactic response to be determined. The advantages and disadvantages of the experimental technique are discussed along with its application to the study of in vitro and in vivo actions of various drugs on rat PMN chemotaxis.", "PMID": 440958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5052", "title": "Proliferation of human lymphocytes in culutre: determination by measurement of nuclear volume and cell number.", "content": "Proliferation of stimulated human lymphocytes was studied in cultures by determining cell counts and nuclear volume enlargement. DNA content and the nuclear volume increase before the cell divides. Volume-frequency curves were obtained of unstimulated and phytohemagglutinin (PHA) stimulated lymphocytes on 0, 3, 6 and 9 days of cultures with the Coulter Counter H4 system. As the number of lymphocytes in the cultures transformed and enlarged in volume, the area under the volume-frequency curve increased proportionately. The fraction of transforming cells was determined by comparing the area under the curve of the unstimulated and the stimulated lymphocytes. This method provides both the fraction of cells transformed and the increment of the number of cells in the culture and is therefore a better indicator of cell proliferation than the commonly used isotope-labeled thymidine uptake method which monitors the fraction of the cells in DNA synthesis phase only.", "contents": "Proliferation of human lymphocytes in culutre: determination by measurement of nuclear volume and cell number. Proliferation of stimulated human lymphocytes was studied in cultures by determining cell counts and nuclear volume enlargement. DNA content and the nuclear volume increase before the cell divides. Volume-frequency curves were obtained of unstimulated and phytohemagglutinin (PHA) stimulated lymphocytes on 0, 3, 6 and 9 days of cultures with the Coulter Counter H4 system. As the number of lymphocytes in the cultures transformed and enlarged in volume, the area under the volume-frequency curve increased proportionately. The fraction of transforming cells was determined by comparing the area under the curve of the unstimulated and the stimulated lymphocytes. This method provides both the fraction of cells transformed and the increment of the number of cells in the culture and is therefore a better indicator of cell proliferation than the commonly used isotope-labeled thymidine uptake method which monitors the fraction of the cells in DNA synthesis phase only.", "PMID": 440959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5053", "title": "[Study of the electrophoretic and kinetic properties of erythrocyte glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in hereditary enzyme deficiencies. Description of a new variant of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase: the Gd Kremenchug].", "content": "A study of the activity of human erythrocyte G-6-PD has been completed on a great number of normal controls, coming from different regions of the USSR. This study has led to the discovery of a new variant of erythrocytic Gd, which was named \"Kremenchug\" from the origin of the patient. This new Gd, has a very low Km for G-6-P, and has a greater affinity for 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate. The maximal activity versus the pH of the medium is also characteristic of this new Gd.", "contents": "[Study of the electrophoretic and kinetic properties of erythrocyte glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in hereditary enzyme deficiencies. Description of a new variant of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase: the Gd Kremenchug]. A study of the activity of human erythrocyte G-6-PD has been completed on a great number of normal controls, coming from different regions of the USSR. This study has led to the discovery of a new variant of erythrocytic Gd, which was named \"Kremenchug\" from the origin of the patient. This new Gd, has a very low Km for G-6-P, and has a greater affinity for 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate. The maximal activity versus the pH of the medium is also characteristic of this new Gd.", "PMID": 440960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5054", "title": "[In vitro study of erythroblast precursors in Vasquez disease (polycythemia vera). Arguments in favor of a double population of erythroblastic stem cells in the bone marrow].", "content": "In vitro studies using the plasma clot culture system have been performed in order to compare the red cell pregenitors able to rise to erythrocytic colonies in 7 days (CFUE) in the bone marrow of polycythemia vera (PV), secondary polycythemias and normal subjects. In PV but never in normal individuals or secondary polycythemias, the bone marrow cells producing erythroid colonies without addition of erythropoietin were found. The erythropoietin dode response curves in PV is biphasic with a plateau up to a concentration of erythropoietin of 0.02-0.05 i.U./ml followed by a near normal response to erythropoietin at higher doses. Thus our results demonstrate that two populations of erythroid stem cells coexist in PV, one being abnormally sensitive to (or independant of) erythropoietin, the other normally responding to erythropoietin. After remission induced by P32 treatment, the abnormal population can disappear but the prognostic significance of this disappearance is uncertain. On the whole these results are in agreement with those of others laboratories using the plasma clot culture system. The reasons of the disagreement with the data published using the methylcellulose technic of culture are discussed.", "contents": "[In vitro study of erythroblast precursors in Vasquez disease (polycythemia vera). Arguments in favor of a double population of erythroblastic stem cells in the bone marrow]. In vitro studies using the plasma clot culture system have been performed in order to compare the red cell pregenitors able to rise to erythrocytic colonies in 7 days (CFUE) in the bone marrow of polycythemia vera (PV), secondary polycythemias and normal subjects. In PV but never in normal individuals or secondary polycythemias, the bone marrow cells producing erythroid colonies without addition of erythropoietin were found. The erythropoietin dode response curves in PV is biphasic with a plateau up to a concentration of erythropoietin of 0.02-0.05 i.U./ml followed by a near normal response to erythropoietin at higher doses. Thus our results demonstrate that two populations of erythroid stem cells coexist in PV, one being abnormally sensitive to (or independant of) erythropoietin, the other normally responding to erythropoietin. After remission induced by P32 treatment, the abnormal population can disappear but the prognostic significance of this disappearance is uncertain. On the whole these results are in agreement with those of others laboratories using the plasma clot culture system. The reasons of the disagreement with the data published using the methylcellulose technic of culture are discussed.", "PMID": 440961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5055", "title": "[Distribution of HLA antigens among the population of Finist\u00e8re (France) (author's transl)].", "content": "We have studied by using HLA system, 200 people, without filiation but having the same geographic origine (Finist\u00e8re). The results have been compared with those measured for Parisian and Basque population. A significantly decrease of antigen A29, B18 and BW16 frequency have been observed in the population from Finistere. But, antigen B8 and B27 seems to be more frequent than in population from Paris. A linkage desequilibrium is described for A1-B8 and A3-B7 haplotypes as in population from Paris; but the desequilibrium for A11-B5 seens to be characteristic of population from Finistere.", "contents": "[Distribution of HLA antigens among the population of Finist\u00e8re (France) (author's transl)]. We have studied by using HLA system, 200 people, without filiation but having the same geographic origine (Finist\u00e8re). The results have been compared with those measured for Parisian and Basque population. A significantly decrease of antigen A29, B18 and BW16 frequency have been observed in the population from Finistere. But, antigen B8 and B27 seems to be more frequent than in population from Paris. A linkage desequilibrium is described for A1-B8 and A3-B7 haplotypes as in population from Paris; but the desequilibrium for A11-B5 seens to be characteristic of population from Finistere.", "PMID": 440962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5056", "title": "[Materno-foetal transfer of anti-HLA antibodies. Study by using LDA test (author's transl)].", "content": "The LDA test was used to study the materno-foetal transfer of anti-HLA antibodies. The results were compared with those obtained earlier by the complement dependent lymphocytotoxicity test (CdL). Although more sensitive than CdL, the LDA test did not demonstrate more maternal antibodies in cord blood when these antibodies corresponded to the child's paternal antigens. Nevertheless LDA demonstrated antibodies did not always behave similarly to those seen by CdL.", "contents": "[Materno-foetal transfer of anti-HLA antibodies. Study by using LDA test (author's transl)]. The LDA test was used to study the materno-foetal transfer of anti-HLA antibodies. The results were compared with those obtained earlier by the complement dependent lymphocytotoxicity test (CdL). Although more sensitive than CdL, the LDA test did not demonstrate more maternal antibodies in cord blood when these antibodies corresponded to the child's paternal antigens. Nevertheless LDA demonstrated antibodies did not always behave similarly to those seen by CdL.", "PMID": 440963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5057", "title": "Hydergine and vincamine derivative LD 4298 exhibit no anti-sickling properties in vitro.", "content": "Amongst the treatments proposed for Sickle Cell disease Ergot derivatives and extracts from Pervinca have been proposed. We have studied in vitro the effect of Hydergine and LD 4298 on Sickle Cells and Sickle Hemoglobin according to the following four parameters: percentage of sickling, potassium leak, minimum gelation concentration and speed of gelation. In these studies no anti-sickling effect was detected. Moreover Hydergine at 50 microgram/ml increased spontaneous potassium loss without any anti-sickling effect. One can conclude that these two drugs have no effect on sickling.", "contents": "Hydergine and vincamine derivative LD 4298 exhibit no anti-sickling properties in vitro. Amongst the treatments proposed for Sickle Cell disease Ergot derivatives and extracts from Pervinca have been proposed. We have studied in vitro the effect of Hydergine and LD 4298 on Sickle Cells and Sickle Hemoglobin according to the following four parameters: percentage of sickling, potassium leak, minimum gelation concentration and speed of gelation. In these studies no anti-sickling effect was detected. Moreover Hydergine at 50 microgram/ml increased spontaneous potassium loss without any anti-sickling effect. One can conclude that these two drugs have no effect on sickling.", "PMID": 440964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5058", "title": "The mechanism of action of tRNA methylases studied with immobilized tRNAs.", "content": "Each of the individual tRNAs immobilized on aminohydroxybutyl-cellulose (ABC) through their oxidized 3'-terminal binds affinitively all methylases present in the enzyme extract irrespective of whether this tRNA will be involved in the following step of methylation or not. These data allow to suggest that (a) the formation of a methylase-tRNA complex and the catalytic act of methylation are indeed autonomous processes and (b) the first step of interaction between tRNAs and tRNA methylases is rather unspecific and consists in the recognition of the whole class of tRNA molecules.", "contents": "The mechanism of action of tRNA methylases studied with immobilized tRNAs. Each of the individual tRNAs immobilized on aminohydroxybutyl-cellulose (ABC) through their oxidized 3'-terminal binds affinitively all methylases present in the enzyme extract irrespective of whether this tRNA will be involved in the following step of methylation or not. These data allow to suggest that (a) the formation of a methylase-tRNA complex and the catalytic act of methylation are indeed autonomous processes and (b) the first step of interaction between tRNAs and tRNA methylases is rather unspecific and consists in the recognition of the whole class of tRNA molecules.", "PMID": 440965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5059", "title": "The DNA polymerases associated with the adenovirus type 2 replication complex: effect of 2'-3'-dideoxythymidine-5'-triphosphate on viral DNA synthesis.", "content": "An adenovirus (Ad) DNA replication complex extracted from infected HeLa nuclei could be purified free of the bulk of intracellular DNA polymerase activity by sedimetation in neutral sucrose gradients. However, the replication complex still retained some alpha and gamma DNA-polymerase activity. Since this complex is inhibited by 2', 3' dideoxythymidine-5'-triphosphate (ddTTP), an inhibitor of DNA polymerase gamma, a functional role for this enzyme in Ad DNA replication is suggested. Similar inhibition by ddTTP in intact Ad infected nuclei and comparable inhibition of Ad DNA synthesis in whole cells by dideoxythymidine (ddThy) are consistent with a role for DNA polymerase gamma. Uninfected HeLa nuclei or whole cells are not similarly inhibited by ddTTP or DDThy respectively. Such data does not rule out an additional functional role for other DNA polymerases, and recent experiments from this laboratory (1) suggest that DNA polymerase alpha is also involved in Ad DNA synthesis.", "contents": "The DNA polymerases associated with the adenovirus type 2 replication complex: effect of 2'-3'-dideoxythymidine-5'-triphosphate on viral DNA synthesis. An adenovirus (Ad) DNA replication complex extracted from infected HeLa nuclei could be purified free of the bulk of intracellular DNA polymerase activity by sedimetation in neutral sucrose gradients. However, the replication complex still retained some alpha and gamma DNA-polymerase activity. Since this complex is inhibited by 2', 3' dideoxythymidine-5'-triphosphate (ddTTP), an inhibitor of DNA polymerase gamma, a functional role for this enzyme in Ad DNA replication is suggested. Similar inhibition by ddTTP in intact Ad infected nuclei and comparable inhibition of Ad DNA synthesis in whole cells by dideoxythymidine (ddThy) are consistent with a role for DNA polymerase gamma. Uninfected HeLa nuclei or whole cells are not similarly inhibited by ddTTP or DDThy respectively. Such data does not rule out an additional functional role for other DNA polymerases, and recent experiments from this laboratory (1) suggest that DNA polymerase alpha is also involved in Ad DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 440966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5060", "title": "Raman spectral studies of poly(1-methylinosinic acid).", "content": "The synthesis and characterization of poly(1-methylinosinic acid) are described. Laser Raman spectra of poly (mII) were obtained as a function of temperature in D2O solution. Thermal melting profiles derived from the intensity variations of the 712, 795, 814, 986, 1333, 1509, 1550 and 1680 cm-1 bands indicate a cooperative melting temperature of 9 +/- 1 degree C. The low temperature form of poly(mII) exhibits a carbonyl frequency at 1710 cm-I which is decreased to 1680 cm-I upon melting. The Raman hypochromism in the bands reported are equal to or much larger than any reported for other nucleic acids. The data are consistent with the low temperature form of poly(mII) being an ordered single stranded unit with a high degree of basestacking. The melting profiles obtained from the uv and cd spectra are consistent with and support the Raman data. This single stranded RNA exhibits an uncharacteristic behavior in that it melts cooperatively.", "contents": "Raman spectral studies of poly(1-methylinosinic acid). The synthesis and characterization of poly(1-methylinosinic acid) are described. Laser Raman spectra of poly (mII) were obtained as a function of temperature in D2O solution. Thermal melting profiles derived from the intensity variations of the 712, 795, 814, 986, 1333, 1509, 1550 and 1680 cm-1 bands indicate a cooperative melting temperature of 9 +/- 1 degree C. The low temperature form of poly(mII) exhibits a carbonyl frequency at 1710 cm-I which is decreased to 1680 cm-I upon melting. The Raman hypochromism in the bands reported are equal to or much larger than any reported for other nucleic acids. The data are consistent with the low temperature form of poly(mII) being an ordered single stranded unit with a high degree of basestacking. The melting profiles obtained from the uv and cd spectra are consistent with and support the Raman data. This single stranded RNA exhibits an uncharacteristic behavior in that it melts cooperatively.", "PMID": 440967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5061", "title": "Model studies of interactions between nucleic acids and proteins: hydrogen bonding of amides with nucleic acid bases.", "content": "The formation of hydrogen bonded complexes between nucleic acid bases and acetamide has been studied by nuclear magnetic resonance in CDC13 at different temperatures. Pairs of hydrogen bonds are formed when acetamide binds to nucleic acid bases. Thermodynamic parameters have been computed and compared to those obtained for the association of carboxylic acids with nucleic acid bases. The role of hydrogen bonded complexes in the association of proteins with nucleic acids is discussed.", "contents": "Model studies of interactions between nucleic acids and proteins: hydrogen bonding of amides with nucleic acid bases. The formation of hydrogen bonded complexes between nucleic acid bases and acetamide has been studied by nuclear magnetic resonance in CDC13 at different temperatures. Pairs of hydrogen bonds are formed when acetamide binds to nucleic acid bases. Thermodynamic parameters have been computed and compared to those obtained for the association of carboxylic acids with nucleic acid bases. The role of hydrogen bonded complexes in the association of proteins with nucleic acids is discussed.", "PMID": 440968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5062", "title": "Anisotropic flexibility of DNA and the nucleosomal structure.", "content": "Potential energy calculations of the DNA duplex dimeric subunit show that the double helix may be bent in the direction of minor and major grooves much more easily than in other directions. It is found that the total winding angle of DNA decreases upon such bending. A new model for DNA folding in the nucleosome is proposed on the basis of these findings according to which the DNA molecule is kinked each fifth base pair to the side of the minor and major grooves alternatively. The model explains the known contradiction between a C-like circular dichroism for the nucleosomal DNA and the nuclease digestion data, which testify to the B-form of DNA.", "contents": "Anisotropic flexibility of DNA and the nucleosomal structure. Potential energy calculations of the DNA duplex dimeric subunit show that the double helix may be bent in the direction of minor and major grooves much more easily than in other directions. It is found that the total winding angle of DNA decreases upon such bending. A new model for DNA folding in the nucleosome is proposed on the basis of these findings according to which the DNA molecule is kinked each fifth base pair to the side of the minor and major grooves alternatively. The model explains the known contradiction between a C-like circular dichroism for the nucleosomal DNA and the nuclease digestion data, which testify to the B-form of DNA.", "PMID": 440969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5063", "title": "Properties of a small transcribed poly A sequence in heterogeneous nuclear RNA of HeLa cells.", "content": "A class of heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) molecules contain an internal transcribed poly A sequence of close to 25 uninterrupted AMP residues. HnRNA molecules containing this sequence are separable from those containing the large 3' terminal poly A sequence on the basis of their differential affinity for oligo dT cellulose. The fact that the transcribed small poly A and the 3' terminal poly A are not found in the same hnRNA molecules even though both are present in similar size classes and that the small poly A is absent from cytoplasmic messenger RNA (mRNA) has led us to propose a scheme for mRNA processing in which the 3' end of the small poly A in hnRNA becomes a priming size for the post-transcriptional addiction of the large poly A.", "contents": "Properties of a small transcribed poly A sequence in heterogeneous nuclear RNA of HeLa cells. A class of heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) molecules contain an internal transcribed poly A sequence of close to 25 uninterrupted AMP residues. HnRNA molecules containing this sequence are separable from those containing the large 3' terminal poly A sequence on the basis of their differential affinity for oligo dT cellulose. The fact that the transcribed small poly A and the 3' terminal poly A are not found in the same hnRNA molecules even though both are present in similar size classes and that the small poly A is absent from cytoplasmic messenger RNA (mRNA) has led us to propose a scheme for mRNA processing in which the 3' end of the small poly A in hnRNA becomes a priming size for the post-transcriptional addiction of the large poly A.", "PMID": 440970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5064", "title": "A conformational study of nucleic acid phosphate ester bonds using phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance.", "content": "A systematic phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance study of some nucleic acid constituents (6-N-(dimethyl)adenylyl-(3',5')-uridine and some nucleotide methyl esters) is presented. The temperature dependent phosphorus-31 chemical shifts were analyzed by standard thermodynamic procedures. It is shown that gt conformations about the P-O ester bonds have a lower free energy content relative to gg conformers.", "contents": "A conformational study of nucleic acid phosphate ester bonds using phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance. A systematic phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance study of some nucleic acid constituents (6-N-(dimethyl)adenylyl-(3',5')-uridine and some nucleotide methyl esters) is presented. The temperature dependent phosphorus-31 chemical shifts were analyzed by standard thermodynamic procedures. It is shown that gt conformations about the P-O ester bonds have a lower free energy content relative to gg conformers.", "PMID": 440971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5065", "title": "Cytoplasmic location of undermethylated messenger RNA in Novikoff cells.", "content": "Novikoff cells in culture were labeled with L-[methyl-3H]methionine and [U-14C]uridine in the presence of (a) TubHcy2, (b) AdoHcy, (c) homocysteine, (d) tubercidin, or (e) without any additions. Only in cultures labeled in the presence of TubHcy were undermethylated cap structures observed to represent a significant portion of [3H]methyl radioactivity. Novikoff cells in culture were then simultaneously labeled with L-[methyl-3H]methionine and [32P]orthophosphate in the presence or absence of TubHcy. Total cytoplasmic, polysomal and monosomal poly(A)-containing RNAs were analyzed. Both monosomal and polysomal mRNA fractions from TubHcy-treated cells contain partially methylated cap structures, suggesting that 2'-O-methylation of the nucleoside adjacent to the pyrophosphate linkage in caps is not required for transport, ribosomal binding or translation. Comparison of nuclear and cytoplasmic cap structures from normal and inhibited cultures indicate that an altered mRNA population is generated in the presence of TubHcy.", "contents": "Cytoplasmic location of undermethylated messenger RNA in Novikoff cells. Novikoff cells in culture were labeled with L-[methyl-3H]methionine and [U-14C]uridine in the presence of (a) TubHcy2, (b) AdoHcy, (c) homocysteine, (d) tubercidin, or (e) without any additions. Only in cultures labeled in the presence of TubHcy were undermethylated cap structures observed to represent a significant portion of [3H]methyl radioactivity. Novikoff cells in culture were then simultaneously labeled with L-[methyl-3H]methionine and [32P]orthophosphate in the presence or absence of TubHcy. Total cytoplasmic, polysomal and monosomal poly(A)-containing RNAs were analyzed. Both monosomal and polysomal mRNA fractions from TubHcy-treated cells contain partially methylated cap structures, suggesting that 2'-O-methylation of the nucleoside adjacent to the pyrophosphate linkage in caps is not required for transport, ribosomal binding or translation. Comparison of nuclear and cytoplasmic cap structures from normal and inhibited cultures indicate that an altered mRNA population is generated in the presence of TubHcy.", "PMID": 440972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5066", "title": "The use of exonuclease III for preparing single stranded DNA for use as a template in the chain terminator sequencing method.", "content": "Exonuclease III, which degrades DNA 3' leads to 5' and is specific for duplex DNA, can be used to prepare single stranded DNA from linear duplexes. This is shown to be suitable as a template for use with the chain terminator DNA sequencing method of Sanger et al. [1]. Strategies are discussed for preparing single stranded DNA templates by this method and, in particular, its application to the sequence analysis of DNA cloned in plasmid vectors.", "contents": "The use of exonuclease III for preparing single stranded DNA for use as a template in the chain terminator sequencing method. Exonuclease III, which degrades DNA 3' leads to 5' and is specific for duplex DNA, can be used to prepare single stranded DNA from linear duplexes. This is shown to be suitable as a template for use with the chain terminator DNA sequencing method of Sanger et al. [1]. Strategies are discussed for preparing single stranded DNA templates by this method and, in particular, its application to the sequence analysis of DNA cloned in plasmid vectors.", "PMID": 440973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5067", "title": "The mode of Mg++ binding to oligonucleotides. Inner sphere complexes as markers for recognition?", "content": "Large changes of UV absorbance and CD spectra as well as specific relaxation processes with time constrants around 50 mus are found for the association of Mg++ with A(pa)n. The Mg++ binding constants strongly increase with increasing n. The relaxation data demonstrate that a large fraction of Mg++ bound to short A(pA)n forms inner sphere complexes (ISC), with H2O molecules from the inner hydration sphere of Mg++ exchanged against some site (s) of the oligomer. This fraction decreases from about 85% for A(pA)4 to less than 10% for A(pA)17. A parallel decrease is observed in the relative change of CD spectrum upon Mg++ binding from 77.5% for A(pA)4 to 13.4% for (pA)17. The rate of ISC formation decreases with increasing n suggesting some (probably sterical) hindrance effect at high n. The data support the conclusion that Mg++ favours the formation of outer sphere complexes with linear polynucleotides and require a special chain folding for ISC. Measurements of Mg++ binding to C(pC)5, U(pU)5, I(pI)5 and d[A(pA)5] did not give evidence for the formation of ISC, indicating that both specific base and sugar residues are required for ISC. These results suggest the possibility that Mg++ISC ARE USED FOR SPECific recognition of nucleic acid sequences.", "contents": "The mode of Mg++ binding to oligonucleotides. Inner sphere complexes as markers for recognition? Large changes of UV absorbance and CD spectra as well as specific relaxation processes with time constrants around 50 mus are found for the association of Mg++ with A(pa)n. The Mg++ binding constants strongly increase with increasing n. The relaxation data demonstrate that a large fraction of Mg++ bound to short A(pA)n forms inner sphere complexes (ISC), with H2O molecules from the inner hydration sphere of Mg++ exchanged against some site (s) of the oligomer. This fraction decreases from about 85% for A(pA)4 to less than 10% for A(pA)17. A parallel decrease is observed in the relative change of CD spectrum upon Mg++ binding from 77.5% for A(pA)4 to 13.4% for (pA)17. The rate of ISC formation decreases with increasing n suggesting some (probably sterical) hindrance effect at high n. The data support the conclusion that Mg++ favours the formation of outer sphere complexes with linear polynucleotides and require a special chain folding for ISC. Measurements of Mg++ binding to C(pC)5, U(pU)5, I(pI)5 and d[A(pA)5] did not give evidence for the formation of ISC, indicating that both specific base and sugar residues are required for ISC. These results suggest the possibility that Mg++ISC ARE USED FOR SPECific recognition of nucleic acid sequences.", "PMID": 440974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5068", "title": "Comparison of non histone proteins selectively associated with nucleosomes with proteins released during limited DNase digestions.", "content": "Cultured mammary cells from GR mouse were used to analyse proteins associated with the mononucleosomes and released by a short micrococcal DNase treatment of nuclei. On metrizamide density gradients, mononucleosomes appear to be heterogeneous according to their content of associated non-histone proteins. Proteins associated with the denser fraction (1.22 - 1.24 g/ml) were analysed by two dimensional electrophoresis and compared to the proteins released by DNase I treatment. All the proteins associated with mononucleosomes were also released by DNase I treatment. It could then be assumed that these proteins are associated with the active part of the genome. Additional proteins were released by micrococcal DNase treatment of the nuclei. They could be involved in a higher order organization of chromatin.", "contents": "Comparison of non histone proteins selectively associated with nucleosomes with proteins released during limited DNase digestions. Cultured mammary cells from GR mouse were used to analyse proteins associated with the mononucleosomes and released by a short micrococcal DNase treatment of nuclei. On metrizamide density gradients, mononucleosomes appear to be heterogeneous according to their content of associated non-histone proteins. Proteins associated with the denser fraction (1.22 - 1.24 g/ml) were analysed by two dimensional electrophoresis and compared to the proteins released by DNase I treatment. All the proteins associated with mononucleosomes were also released by DNase I treatment. It could then be assumed that these proteins are associated with the active part of the genome. Additional proteins were released by micrococcal DNase treatment of the nuclei. They could be involved in a higher order organization of chromatin.", "PMID": 440975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5069", "title": "Isolation of hydroxy-Y base from rat liver tRNAPhe.", "content": "A Y-base derivative was isolated from rat liver tRNAPhe and its structure was assigned to be alpha-(carboxyamino)-beta-hydroxy-4,9-dihydro-4,6-dimethyl-9-oxo-1H-imidazol[1,2-a]purine-7-butyric acid dimethyl ester (hydroxy-Y), based on the results of mass spectrometry and chemical degradation. This modified base seems to be the major fluorescent component of rat liver tRNAPhe; the peroxy-Y base previously isolated from rat liver tRNAPhe and characterized by Nakanishi and his coworkers (1,2) was not present in our preparation.", "contents": "Isolation of hydroxy-Y base from rat liver tRNAPhe. A Y-base derivative was isolated from rat liver tRNAPhe and its structure was assigned to be alpha-(carboxyamino)-beta-hydroxy-4,9-dihydro-4,6-dimethyl-9-oxo-1H-imidazol[1,2-a]purine-7-butyric acid dimethyl ester (hydroxy-Y), based on the results of mass spectrometry and chemical degradation. This modified base seems to be the major fluorescent component of rat liver tRNAPhe; the peroxy-Y base previously isolated from rat liver tRNAPhe and characterized by Nakanishi and his coworkers (1,2) was not present in our preparation.", "PMID": 440976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5070", "title": "Isolation and partial characterization of plasma membranes from rat lung alveoli.", "content": "Plasma membranes from rat lung alveoli were isolated under hypotonic conditions (1 mM NaHCO3, 5 mM dithiothreitol, pH 7.5) using differential centrifugation and nonlinear sucrose gradient centrifugation techniques. Plasma membranes possessed densities of 1.13 and 1.16 g/cm3. The low density (1.13 g/cm3) fraction represented 2.2 and 2.0% of the total initial homogenate 5'-nucleotidase, EC 3.1.3.5 (a plasma membrane marker enzyme for rat lung, B.L. Riemer and C.C. Widnell, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 171, 343-347, 1975) and adenylate cyclase, EC 4.6.1.1, respectively. The purification of 5'-nucleotidase and adenylate cyclase in the low density fraction relative to their specific activities in the homogenate was 11.2 and 5.7, respectively. The cholesterol to phospholipid ratio of this fraction was 0.73. The electron microscopic study of this fraction revealed the presence of small vesicles exhibiting a typical unit membrane structure. Plasma membrane vesicles isolated by this procedure could provide a source of material to study this adenylate cyclase system.", "contents": "Isolation and partial characterization of plasma membranes from rat lung alveoli. Plasma membranes from rat lung alveoli were isolated under hypotonic conditions (1 mM NaHCO3, 5 mM dithiothreitol, pH 7.5) using differential centrifugation and nonlinear sucrose gradient centrifugation techniques. Plasma membranes possessed densities of 1.13 and 1.16 g/cm3. The low density (1.13 g/cm3) fraction represented 2.2 and 2.0% of the total initial homogenate 5'-nucleotidase, EC 3.1.3.5 (a plasma membrane marker enzyme for rat lung, B.L. Riemer and C.C. Widnell, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 171, 343-347, 1975) and adenylate cyclase, EC 4.6.1.1, respectively. The purification of 5'-nucleotidase and adenylate cyclase in the low density fraction relative to their specific activities in the homogenate was 11.2 and 5.7, respectively. The cholesterol to phospholipid ratio of this fraction was 0.73. The electron microscopic study of this fraction revealed the presence of small vesicles exhibiting a typical unit membrane structure. Plasma membrane vesicles isolated by this procedure could provide a source of material to study this adenylate cyclase system.", "PMID": 441047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5071", "title": "A rapid procedure for the large scale purification of elastase and cathepsin G from human sputum.", "content": "A procedure is described which permits the rapid isolation of large amounts of elastase and cathepsin G from purulent sputum. This procedure involves: (1) digestion of sputum with DNase, (2) extraction of the insoluble residue that remains with 1 M NaCl, pH 8, (3) affinity chromatography on Sepharose-bound Trasylol, and (4) separation of the two enzymes by chromatogrphy on CM-Sephadex. Starting with 500 g of sputum it was possible to isolate 175 mg of each of these two enzymes within 7 to 10 days. Active site titration indicated both enzymes to be at least 97% pure. Disc gel electrophoresis in the presence and absence of SDS and amino acid sequence of the N-terminal region support the conclusion that the elastase and cathepsin G isolated from sputum are identical to the same enzymes isolated directly from the leukocytes of human blood.", "contents": "A rapid procedure for the large scale purification of elastase and cathepsin G from human sputum. A procedure is described which permits the rapid isolation of large amounts of elastase and cathepsin G from purulent sputum. This procedure involves: (1) digestion of sputum with DNase, (2) extraction of the insoluble residue that remains with 1 M NaCl, pH 8, (3) affinity chromatography on Sepharose-bound Trasylol, and (4) separation of the two enzymes by chromatogrphy on CM-Sephadex. Starting with 500 g of sputum it was possible to isolate 175 mg of each of these two enzymes within 7 to 10 days. Active site titration indicated both enzymes to be at least 97% pure. Disc gel electrophoresis in the presence and absence of SDS and amino acid sequence of the N-terminal region support the conclusion that the elastase and cathepsin G isolated from sputum are identical to the same enzymes isolated directly from the leukocytes of human blood.", "PMID": 441048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5072", "title": "On preparative separation of brain mitochondrial monoamine oxidases.", "content": "A method was developed for solubilization from bovine brain stem mitochondrial fraction of monoamine oxidases deminating biogenic amines. Preparative separation of the monoamine oxidases, possessing different substrate specificities, was achieved by column chromatography on a biospecific adsorbent AH-Sepharose 4 B. The enzyme preparations thus obtained did not contain any detectable by disc-electrophoresis of isoelectrofocusing in polyacrylamide gels proteins which were devoid of the monoamine oxidase activity.", "contents": "On preparative separation of brain mitochondrial monoamine oxidases. A method was developed for solubilization from bovine brain stem mitochondrial fraction of monoamine oxidases deminating biogenic amines. Preparative separation of the monoamine oxidases, possessing different substrate specificities, was achieved by column chromatography on a biospecific adsorbent AH-Sepharose 4 B. The enzyme preparations thus obtained did not contain any detectable by disc-electrophoresis of isoelectrofocusing in polyacrylamide gels proteins which were devoid of the monoamine oxidase activity.", "PMID": 441049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5073", "title": "Interaction of brain noradrenaline and the pituitary-adrenal axis in learning and extinction.", "content": "The effect of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced degeneration of the dorsal tegmental noradrenergic (NA) projection alone or in combination with the removal of the adrenal glands was examined on several behavioral tasks. No impairment of acquisition on a continuously reinforced lever pressing response for food reward was seen as a result of the combined treatment. However, resistance to extinction was observed after depletion of forebrain noradrenaline on its own and this effect was prevented by the adrenalectomy. Adrenalectomy on its own failed to affect extinction. Acquisition of a passive avoidance task was slightly impaired after forebrain noradrenaline depletion but only the group with combined noradrenaline loss and adrenalectomy showed a 24 hour retention deficit. No alteration in shock thresholds was found in any group although both adrenalectomized groups consumed less food and were slightly less active in locomotor cages. It is suggested that previous reports of acquisition and retention deficits in avoidance tasks after combined dorsal NA bundle lesions and adrenalectomy are due to alterations in fear motivation rather than to a general learning impairment.", "contents": "Interaction of brain noradrenaline and the pituitary-adrenal axis in learning and extinction. The effect of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced degeneration of the dorsal tegmental noradrenergic (NA) projection alone or in combination with the removal of the adrenal glands was examined on several behavioral tasks. No impairment of acquisition on a continuously reinforced lever pressing response for food reward was seen as a result of the combined treatment. However, resistance to extinction was observed after depletion of forebrain noradrenaline on its own and this effect was prevented by the adrenalectomy. Adrenalectomy on its own failed to affect extinction. Acquisition of a passive avoidance task was slightly impaired after forebrain noradrenaline depletion but only the group with combined noradrenaline loss and adrenalectomy showed a 24 hour retention deficit. No alteration in shock thresholds was found in any group although both adrenalectomized groups consumed less food and were slightly less active in locomotor cages. It is suggested that previous reports of acquisition and retention deficits in avoidance tasks after combined dorsal NA bundle lesions and adrenalectomy are due to alterations in fear motivation rather than to a general learning impairment.", "PMID": 441087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5074", "title": "Effects of chronic intraventricular administration of angiotensin II on drinking behavior and blood pressure.", "content": "Angiotensin II was continuously infused into the lateral cerebral ventricle of rats, and the effects on daily food and water consumption, urine volume, and aortic blood pressure were studied. All was infused at a rate of 10 ng/hr for seven days, using subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps. An intraventricular (IVT) control group was infused with only the saline vehicle, while a third group received AII subcutaneously. IVT AII rats showed a four-fold increase in water consumption, to a mean of 171 ml/day during Days 2-4 of infusion, whereas water intake of the other groups did not change from preinfusion levels. Urine volume showed a similar pattern to water intake, increasing five-fold in the IVT AII group during Days 2-4. These measures declined during the final three days of AII infusion, but significant tolerance was not observed. Food intake decreased markedly in both saline and IVT AII groups after implantation of the pumps, but the latter resumed normal food intake more slowly than the former, and body weight remained below preinfusion levels throughout the AII period. Aortic blood pressure of the IVT AII rats showed a slight, but progressive, rise during the infusion period, but it did not significantly exceed that of the saline rats. These results indicate that continuous, low-level, intraventricular infusion of AII may markedly increase water intake without significantly increasing fluid retention or blood pressure.", "contents": "Effects of chronic intraventricular administration of angiotensin II on drinking behavior and blood pressure. Angiotensin II was continuously infused into the lateral cerebral ventricle of rats, and the effects on daily food and water consumption, urine volume, and aortic blood pressure were studied. All was infused at a rate of 10 ng/hr for seven days, using subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps. An intraventricular (IVT) control group was infused with only the saline vehicle, while a third group received AII subcutaneously. IVT AII rats showed a four-fold increase in water consumption, to a mean of 171 ml/day during Days 2-4 of infusion, whereas water intake of the other groups did not change from preinfusion levels. Urine volume showed a similar pattern to water intake, increasing five-fold in the IVT AII group during Days 2-4. These measures declined during the final three days of AII infusion, but significant tolerance was not observed. Food intake decreased markedly in both saline and IVT AII groups after implantation of the pumps, but the latter resumed normal food intake more slowly than the former, and body weight remained below preinfusion levels throughout the AII period. Aortic blood pressure of the IVT AII rats showed a slight, but progressive, rise during the infusion period, but it did not significantly exceed that of the saline rats. These results indicate that continuous, low-level, intraventricular infusion of AII may markedly increase water intake without significantly increasing fluid retention or blood pressure.", "PMID": 441088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5075", "title": "Free-operant and auto-titration brain self-stimulation procedures in the rat: a comparison of drug effects.", "content": "Rats were implanted with bipolar stimulating electrodes aimed at the medial forebrain bundle of the lateral hypothalamus, and trained to press a lever in one of two different procedures in order to receive electrical stimulation through the electrodes. In a free-operant procedure, each response produced a 200 msec train of electric pulses at a suprathreshold current, the intensity of which remained constant throughout the session. In an auto-titration procedure, each response produced an electrical stimulus which was initially set at a suprathreshold intensity. Every 15th response reduced the stimulation current by 3 muA. The animal could reset the current to its initial intensity at any time by pressing a second lever in the test chamber. The average current at which the animal pressed the reset lever was defined as the reinforcement threshold. Dose-response functions were determined for d- and l-amphetamine, alpha-methyltyrosine, and haloperidol. The reinforcement threshold was decreased by both d- and l-amphetamine, increased by haloperidol, and not changed by alpha-methyltyrosine. These effects on reinforcement threshold were not consistently related to the drug-induced changes in response rate in either procedure. The auto-titration procedure may be useful for distinguishing between drugs which cause nonspecific changes in the rate of ongoing behavior and those which specifically modify the reinforcement efficacy of brain stimulation.", "contents": "Free-operant and auto-titration brain self-stimulation procedures in the rat: a comparison of drug effects. Rats were implanted with bipolar stimulating electrodes aimed at the medial forebrain bundle of the lateral hypothalamus, and trained to press a lever in one of two different procedures in order to receive electrical stimulation through the electrodes. In a free-operant procedure, each response produced a 200 msec train of electric pulses at a suprathreshold current, the intensity of which remained constant throughout the session. In an auto-titration procedure, each response produced an electrical stimulus which was initially set at a suprathreshold intensity. Every 15th response reduced the stimulation current by 3 muA. The animal could reset the current to its initial intensity at any time by pressing a second lever in the test chamber. The average current at which the animal pressed the reset lever was defined as the reinforcement threshold. Dose-response functions were determined for d- and l-amphetamine, alpha-methyltyrosine, and haloperidol. The reinforcement threshold was decreased by both d- and l-amphetamine, increased by haloperidol, and not changed by alpha-methyltyrosine. These effects on reinforcement threshold were not consistently related to the drug-induced changes in response rate in either procedure. The auto-titration procedure may be useful for distinguishing between drugs which cause nonspecific changes in the rate of ongoing behavior and those which specifically modify the reinforcement efficacy of brain stimulation.", "PMID": 441089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5076", "title": "Avoidance, operant and locomotor behavior in rats with neostriatal injections of kainic acid.", "content": "Compared with saline injected controls, rats with bilateral injections of kainic acid (KA) in the dorsal neostriatum showed increased locomotor response to d-amphetamine, increased resistance to extinction and impaired acquisition and retention of passive avoidance. The KA injection resulted in loss of local neurons in the dorsal neostriatum, with no appreciable damage either to dopaminergic terminals or to extrinsic myelinated axons, thus supporting both the selective neurotoxic action of KA on neuronal perikarya and the proposed similarity of KA-induced neostriatal lesions with those found in the caudate-putamen of patients with Huntington's disease. Although loss of hippocampal neurons was occasionally observed, the behavioral results could not be wholly attributed to hippocampal damage, since rats with no demonstrable extrastriatal lesions were not less impaired than those with hippocampal damage. An altered arousal reaction to stressful situations might account for the learning and memory impairments of the KA neostriatal rats.", "contents": "Avoidance, operant and locomotor behavior in rats with neostriatal injections of kainic acid. Compared with saline injected controls, rats with bilateral injections of kainic acid (KA) in the dorsal neostriatum showed increased locomotor response to d-amphetamine, increased resistance to extinction and impaired acquisition and retention of passive avoidance. The KA injection resulted in loss of local neurons in the dorsal neostriatum, with no appreciable damage either to dopaminergic terminals or to extrinsic myelinated axons, thus supporting both the selective neurotoxic action of KA on neuronal perikarya and the proposed similarity of KA-induced neostriatal lesions with those found in the caudate-putamen of patients with Huntington's disease. Although loss of hippocampal neurons was occasionally observed, the behavioral results could not be wholly attributed to hippocampal damage, since rats with no demonstrable extrastriatal lesions were not less impaired than those with hippocampal damage. An altered arousal reaction to stressful situations might account for the learning and memory impairments of the KA neostriatal rats.", "PMID": 441090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5077", "title": "Disruption of taste aversion learning by pretreatment with diazepam and morphine.", "content": "Laboratory rats were pretreated with either morphine (9 mg/kg IP), diazepam (4 mg/kg 1P) or Ringer's solution 2, 3 1/2, and 2 hr, respectively, prior to ingestion of a novel tasting saccharin solution followed immediately by a single injection of one of these agents. Animals pretreated with Ringer's solution followed by an injection of either morphine or diazepam showed a conditioned taste aversion (CTA) as determined by a significant reduction in the mean saccharin intake on a subsequent test trial. Although the drug pretreatments alone produced no conditioned avoidance behavior, the diazepam pretreatment completely blocked the development of both diazepam and morphine-evoked CTAs while the morphine pretreatment prevented a CTA induced by itself but not by diazepam. The results were discussed in terms of the attenuating effects of the pretreatments on the relative saliency of the subsequent conditioning drug injection.", "contents": "Disruption of taste aversion learning by pretreatment with diazepam and morphine. Laboratory rats were pretreated with either morphine (9 mg/kg IP), diazepam (4 mg/kg 1P) or Ringer's solution 2, 3 1/2, and 2 hr, respectively, prior to ingestion of a novel tasting saccharin solution followed immediately by a single injection of one of these agents. Animals pretreated with Ringer's solution followed by an injection of either morphine or diazepam showed a conditioned taste aversion (CTA) as determined by a significant reduction in the mean saccharin intake on a subsequent test trial. Although the drug pretreatments alone produced no conditioned avoidance behavior, the diazepam pretreatment completely blocked the development of both diazepam and morphine-evoked CTAs while the morphine pretreatment prevented a CTA induced by itself but not by diazepam. The results were discussed in terms of the attenuating effects of the pretreatments on the relative saliency of the subsequent conditioning drug injection.", "PMID": 441091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5078", "title": "Reversal of ethanol induced body dehydration with prolonged consumption in rats.", "content": "Ethanol induced negative water balance has been previously inferred from fluid turnover rates upon initial exposure followed by restored normal fluid balance with prolonged exposure. The first two experiments of the present investigation noted hypovolemia and carcass dehydration during the initial few days of forced choice maintenance on 10% ethanol with recovery to near normal levels of intravascular volume and carcass water after 2 months of forced consumption. A third experiment attempted to test whether the alcohol induced dehydration could be corrected with the administration of exogenous ADH.", "contents": "Reversal of ethanol induced body dehydration with prolonged consumption in rats. Ethanol induced negative water balance has been previously inferred from fluid turnover rates upon initial exposure followed by restored normal fluid balance with prolonged exposure. The first two experiments of the present investigation noted hypovolemia and carcass dehydration during the initial few days of forced choice maintenance on 10% ethanol with recovery to near normal levels of intravascular volume and carcass water after 2 months of forced consumption. A third experiment attempted to test whether the alcohol induced dehydration could be corrected with the administration of exogenous ADH.", "PMID": 441092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5079", "title": "Cross-tolerance between delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and ethanol: the role of drug disposition.", "content": "Acute challenge doses of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 10.1 mg/kg, administered intragastrically by gavage (IG), or ethanol, 1.24 g/kg, IP, reduced the rotarod performance of female rats by 50%. Daily treatment of the animals with THC, 10.1 mg/kg, IG, or ethanol, 4 g/kg, IG, resulted in tolerance development to the impairing effects of the challenge doses of each drug on rotarod performance. THC-tolerant animals were cross-tolerant to the challenge dose of ethanol, but ethanol-tolerant rats did not show complete cross-tolerance to the challenge dose of THC. THC-tolerant animals initially had higher blood levels of 14C-THC than controls after IG drug administration. Following IV injection, the rates of 14C-THC disappearance were equivalent in the latter groups. 14C-THC disappearance was not altered in ethanol-tolerant animals. The rates of ethanol disappearance were not significantly modified in THC- or ethanol-tolerant animals. In conclusion, THC-tolerant female rats demonstrated cross-tolerance to ethanol as shown previously for males. Furthermore, the development of tolerance and cross-tolerance was not a function of changes in drug disappearance.", "contents": "Cross-tolerance between delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and ethanol: the role of drug disposition. Acute challenge doses of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 10.1 mg/kg, administered intragastrically by gavage (IG), or ethanol, 1.24 g/kg, IP, reduced the rotarod performance of female rats by 50%. Daily treatment of the animals with THC, 10.1 mg/kg, IG, or ethanol, 4 g/kg, IG, resulted in tolerance development to the impairing effects of the challenge doses of each drug on rotarod performance. THC-tolerant animals were cross-tolerant to the challenge dose of ethanol, but ethanol-tolerant rats did not show complete cross-tolerance to the challenge dose of THC. THC-tolerant animals initially had higher blood levels of 14C-THC than controls after IG drug administration. Following IV injection, the rates of 14C-THC disappearance were equivalent in the latter groups. 14C-THC disappearance was not altered in ethanol-tolerant animals. The rates of ethanol disappearance were not significantly modified in THC- or ethanol-tolerant animals. In conclusion, THC-tolerant female rats demonstrated cross-tolerance to ethanol as shown previously for males. Furthermore, the development of tolerance and cross-tolerance was not a function of changes in drug disappearance.", "PMID": 441094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5080", "title": "Effects of clozapine on the activity of central dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons.", "content": "The effects of clozapine on the spontaneous firing rate of noradrenergic (NE, locus coeruleus), dopaminergic (DA, zona compacta, ventral tegmental area) and non-dopaminergic (zona reticulata) neurons was studied in chloral hydrate anesthetized rats. Clozapine administered intraperitoneally significantly increased the spontaneous activity of NE and DA neurons. After a cumulative dose of 8 mg/kg clozapine, the increase of mean firing rate per min of zona compacta and ventral tegmental area neurons attained almost similar values. Amphetamine reversed the clozapine-induced stimulation of NE and DA neurons. Zona reticulata neurons were depressed by clozapine. Neither amphetamine nor physostigmine were effective in antagonizing the inhibition. Our results suggest that clozapine blocks central NE and DA receptors. Furthermore, they fail to reveal a smaller sensitivity of the striatum as compared to the limbic system to the effects of clozapine.", "contents": "Effects of clozapine on the activity of central dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons. The effects of clozapine on the spontaneous firing rate of noradrenergic (NE, locus coeruleus), dopaminergic (DA, zona compacta, ventral tegmental area) and non-dopaminergic (zona reticulata) neurons was studied in chloral hydrate anesthetized rats. Clozapine administered intraperitoneally significantly increased the spontaneous activity of NE and DA neurons. After a cumulative dose of 8 mg/kg clozapine, the increase of mean firing rate per min of zona compacta and ventral tegmental area neurons attained almost similar values. Amphetamine reversed the clozapine-induced stimulation of NE and DA neurons. Zona reticulata neurons were depressed by clozapine. Neither amphetamine nor physostigmine were effective in antagonizing the inhibition. Our results suggest that clozapine blocks central NE and DA receptors. Furthermore, they fail to reveal a smaller sensitivity of the striatum as compared to the limbic system to the effects of clozapine.", "PMID": 441095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5081", "title": "Possible involvement of brainstem norepinephrine in pentylenetetrazol convulsions in rats.", "content": "The thresholds of twitch and clonic convulsion induced by intravenous infusion of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) were measured in rats treated with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). In adult rats, intraventricularly applied 6-OHDA increased susceptibility to PTZ convulsions and decreased norepinephrine (NE) contents of the cortex, hypothalamus and brainstem. When 6-OHDA was applied intraventricularly at 8 days after birth, PTZ convulsion susceptibility was slightly decreased and brainstem NE content was significantly increased. However, the effects of 6-OHDA given at 20 days after birth were similar to those observed in adults. Significant decrease of cortical and hypothalamic NE contents, but no change in PTZ convulsion susceptibility, occurred following 6-OHDA injections into the dorsal and ventral NE bundles. These results suggest that the brainstem NE neurons play an inhibitory role on the development of PTZ convulsions.", "contents": "Possible involvement of brainstem norepinephrine in pentylenetetrazol convulsions in rats. The thresholds of twitch and clonic convulsion induced by intravenous infusion of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) were measured in rats treated with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). In adult rats, intraventricularly applied 6-OHDA increased susceptibility to PTZ convulsions and decreased norepinephrine (NE) contents of the cortex, hypothalamus and brainstem. When 6-OHDA was applied intraventricularly at 8 days after birth, PTZ convulsion susceptibility was slightly decreased and brainstem NE content was significantly increased. However, the effects of 6-OHDA given at 20 days after birth were similar to those observed in adults. Significant decrease of cortical and hypothalamic NE contents, but no change in PTZ convulsion susceptibility, occurred following 6-OHDA injections into the dorsal and ventral NE bundles. These results suggest that the brainstem NE neurons play an inhibitory role on the development of PTZ convulsions.", "PMID": 441096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5082", "title": "Opiate modification of intracranial self-stimulation in the rat.", "content": "Studies were conducted to confirm the involvement of central opiate receptors in the expression of opiate modulation of intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS). Biphasic, dose-related changes in ICSS responding are described following IP administration of morphine sulfate (1-25 mg/kg) and levorphanol tartrate (LEV, 0.5-5 mg/kg). Similar patterns of response modification are reported following intraventricular (IVt) administration of LEV (0.01-0.2 muMoles) LEV's enantiomorph, dextrorphan, was not found to elicit comparable effects after either IP or IVt administration. Both the facilitatory and the depressant phases of LEV's action were antagonized by naltrexone (10 microgram, IVt), which had no apparent effect on ICSS by itself. Complete tolerance developed to the suppression of responding by 2.5 mg/kg LEV (IP) but not to the facilitatory effect of 0.5 mg/kg (IP), during a 5-day course of administration. The implications of these results for opiate reinforcement theory are discussed and possible mechanisms are advanced.", "contents": "Opiate modification of intracranial self-stimulation in the rat. Studies were conducted to confirm the involvement of central opiate receptors in the expression of opiate modulation of intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS). Biphasic, dose-related changes in ICSS responding are described following IP administration of morphine sulfate (1-25 mg/kg) and levorphanol tartrate (LEV, 0.5-5 mg/kg). Similar patterns of response modification are reported following intraventricular (IVt) administration of LEV (0.01-0.2 muMoles) LEV's enantiomorph, dextrorphan, was not found to elicit comparable effects after either IP or IVt administration. Both the facilitatory and the depressant phases of LEV's action were antagonized by naltrexone (10 microgram, IVt), which had no apparent effect on ICSS by itself. Complete tolerance developed to the suppression of responding by 2.5 mg/kg LEV (IP) but not to the facilitatory effect of 0.5 mg/kg (IP), during a 5-day course of administration. The implications of these results for opiate reinforcement theory are discussed and possible mechanisms are advanced.", "PMID": 441097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5083", "title": "Cholecystokinin, amphetamine and diazepam and feeding in lean and obese Zucker rats.", "content": "The hyperphagia characteristic of some types of obesity may result from a deficiency in one or more components of the systems controlling satiety which in rats may include the gastrointestinal hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). Obesity may also influence responsivity to often used central nervous system (CNS)-acting drugs and combination of drugs. In these experiments it was shown that: (1) Zucker fatty rats were less sensitive than lean to intraperitoneal injections of 20 U/kg CCK after a 6-hr fast and when reduced were less sensitive than lean and less sensitive than when obese to injections of 5 U/kg CCK; (2) Although fatties were equally sensitive as leans to injections of 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg d-amphetamine sulfate, when reduced, they were less sensitive; (3) Injections of 1.25 and 2.5 mg/kg diazepam produced smaller increases in food intake after a 6-hr fast in fatty and reduced fatty than lean rats; (4) Combination of diazepam with cholecystokinin in both fatty and lean rats produced feeding similar to that following injection of carrier; and (5) A similar additive effect was obtained in both fatty and lean rats when diazepam was combined with amphetamine; however, the fatty appeared to be more sensitive to the amphetamine than the diazepam effect. Thus the Zucker fatty rat appears to be less sensitive to these chemicals which affect food intake, which supports the contention that their CNS is generally less responsive.", "contents": "Cholecystokinin, amphetamine and diazepam and feeding in lean and obese Zucker rats. The hyperphagia characteristic of some types of obesity may result from a deficiency in one or more components of the systems controlling satiety which in rats may include the gastrointestinal hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). Obesity may also influence responsivity to often used central nervous system (CNS)-acting drugs and combination of drugs. In these experiments it was shown that: (1) Zucker fatty rats were less sensitive than lean to intraperitoneal injections of 20 U/kg CCK after a 6-hr fast and when reduced were less sensitive than lean and less sensitive than when obese to injections of 5 U/kg CCK; (2) Although fatties were equally sensitive as leans to injections of 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg d-amphetamine sulfate, when reduced, they were less sensitive; (3) Injections of 1.25 and 2.5 mg/kg diazepam produced smaller increases in food intake after a 6-hr fast in fatty and reduced fatty than lean rats; (4) Combination of diazepam with cholecystokinin in both fatty and lean rats produced feeding similar to that following injection of carrier; and (5) A similar additive effect was obtained in both fatty and lean rats when diazepam was combined with amphetamine; however, the fatty appeared to be more sensitive to the amphetamine than the diazepam effect. Thus the Zucker fatty rat appears to be less sensitive to these chemicals which affect food intake, which supports the contention that their CNS is generally less responsive.", "PMID": 441098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5084", "title": "Drug induced activity in lead-exposed mice.", "content": "Three interrelated studies were conducted to examine the locomotor activity of lead-exposed mice. The effects of lead were examined as a function of the dose and duration of exposure. Exposure during the first three weeks occurred via the maternal milk supply. Exposure following weaning was achieved via the water supply. Mice received challenges with various pharmaceutical agents, including d-amphetamine, methylphenidate, apomorphine and phenobarbital. The spontaneous activity prior to injection and the drug-induced activity were monitored. Lead-exposed mice usually displayed spontaneous activity which was indistinguishable from that of the control animals. In only one set of observations did lead exposure result in a modest increase in spontaneous activity. The drug-induced activity varied in a complex manner as a function of the magnitude and duration of the lead exposure. Depressed body weight, which was concurrent with high lead exposure (0.5% Pb(Ac)2) was also a significant parameter affecting both the spontaneous and drug-induced activity.", "contents": "Drug induced activity in lead-exposed mice. Three interrelated studies were conducted to examine the locomotor activity of lead-exposed mice. The effects of lead were examined as a function of the dose and duration of exposure. Exposure during the first three weeks occurred via the maternal milk supply. Exposure following weaning was achieved via the water supply. Mice received challenges with various pharmaceutical agents, including d-amphetamine, methylphenidate, apomorphine and phenobarbital. The spontaneous activity prior to injection and the drug-induced activity were monitored. Lead-exposed mice usually displayed spontaneous activity which was indistinguishable from that of the control animals. In only one set of observations did lead exposure result in a modest increase in spontaneous activity. The drug-induced activity varied in a complex manner as a function of the magnitude and duration of the lead exposure. Depressed body weight, which was concurrent with high lead exposure (0.5% Pb(Ac)2) was also a significant parameter affecting both the spontaneous and drug-induced activity.", "PMID": 441099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5085", "title": "[Identification of an antimicrobially active constituent isolated from propolis (author's transl)].", "content": "On isolating and identifying antimicrobially active propolis constituents, the authors detected a substance that must be regarded as a mixture of caffeic acid esters. The caffeic acid moiety was unequivocally identified by various chemical and spectroscopic methods. The results obtained from the gas chromatographic study of the alcohol fraction after hydrolysis of the isolated compound identify benzyl alcohol, phenyl ethyl alcohol and cinnamic alcohol as ester components. Furthermore, the mass spectroscopic findings are indicative of the presence of a caffeic acid pentenyl ester in the mixture. Attempts to separate this ester mixture by recrystallization and thin-layer chromatography failed.", "contents": "[Identification of an antimicrobially active constituent isolated from propolis (author's transl)]. On isolating and identifying antimicrobially active propolis constituents, the authors detected a substance that must be regarded as a mixture of caffeic acid esters. The caffeic acid moiety was unequivocally identified by various chemical and spectroscopic methods. The results obtained from the gas chromatographic study of the alcohol fraction after hydrolysis of the isolated compound identify benzyl alcohol, phenyl ethyl alcohol and cinnamic alcohol as ester components. Furthermore, the mass spectroscopic findings are indicative of the presence of a caffeic acid pentenyl ester in the mixture. Attempts to separate this ester mixture by recrystallization and thin-layer chromatography failed.", "PMID": 441103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5086", "title": "[On the importance of the steam trap to the efficient sterilization of solutions in stored blood bottles by saturated steam under pressure (author's transl)].", "content": "Biological tests with soil samples were performed to fix the sterilization time for a new steam sterilizer. These tests yielded repeatedly positive spore findings despite modifications of the conditions of sterilization. Having excluded a series of possible sources of trouble, the authors stated that the quality of the steam was the assignable cause. After restoration of the functionality of the steam traps, the biological tests yielded negative results also under normal conditions of sterilization.", "contents": "[On the importance of the steam trap to the efficient sterilization of solutions in stored blood bottles by saturated steam under pressure (author's transl)]. Biological tests with soil samples were performed to fix the sterilization time for a new steam sterilizer. These tests yielded repeatedly positive spore findings despite modifications of the conditions of sterilization. Having excluded a series of possible sources of trouble, the authors stated that the quality of the steam was the assignable cause. After restoration of the functionality of the steam traps, the biological tests yielded negative results also under normal conditions of sterilization.", "PMID": 441107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5087", "title": "Synthesis of some substituted aminophenazones of possible therapeutic interest.", "content": "Synthesis of four different series of compounds having the phenazone moitety was accomplished, in the hope that one or more of the prepared compounds might possess pharmacological activity. These compounds may contain a hydrazone, an acid hydrazide, certain basic residues, or disubstituted urea structure.", "contents": "Synthesis of some substituted aminophenazones of possible therapeutic interest. Synthesis of four different series of compounds having the phenazone moitety was accomplished, in the hope that one or more of the prepared compounds might possess pharmacological activity. These compounds may contain a hydrazone, an acid hydrazide, certain basic residues, or disubstituted urea structure.", "PMID": 441108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5088", "title": "[Contribution to the stability of papaverine. Part 2: Quantitative determination of papaverine in the presence of degradation products (author's transl)].", "content": "With resort to the coralyne reaction the authors present a fluorometric method permitting to determine papaverine directly in the presence of papaverinol and papaveraldine. The standard deviation of the method is +/- 1.63.", "contents": "[Contribution to the stability of papaverine. Part 2: Quantitative determination of papaverine in the presence of degradation products (author's transl)]. With resort to the coralyne reaction the authors present a fluorometric method permitting to determine papaverine directly in the presence of papaverinol and papaveraldine. The standard deviation of the method is +/- 1.63.", "PMID": 441109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5089", "title": "Effect of certain additives on the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol.", "content": "A study was conducted on the effect of certain additives on the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol. The effect of adsorbents, natural and synthetic surface active agents, diluents and lubricants was studied. Many of these additives increased the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol from capsules.", "contents": "Effect of certain additives on the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol. A study was conducted on the effect of certain additives on the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol. The effect of adsorbents, natural and synthetic surface active agents, diluents and lubricants was studied. Many of these additives increased the dissolution rate of chloramphenicol from capsules.", "PMID": 441110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5090", "title": "Effect of chronic exposure to tobacco smoke on some blood lipids and coagulation parameters in the rat.", "content": "Adult male rats were exposed to tobacco smoke from filter-tipped cigarettes twice daily for a period of four months. Some blood lipids and coagulation parameters were studied. This treatment did not change the serum cholesterol, whereas it significantly increased serum triglycerides and plasma free fatty acids; these were possibly secondary to nicotine-induced catecholamine release. Blood thromboplastic activity as well as platelet aggregation were significantly increased. On the other hand blood fibrinolytic and prothrombin activities were unaffected. These results were discussed.", "contents": "Effect of chronic exposure to tobacco smoke on some blood lipids and coagulation parameters in the rat. Adult male rats were exposed to tobacco smoke from filter-tipped cigarettes twice daily for a period of four months. Some blood lipids and coagulation parameters were studied. This treatment did not change the serum cholesterol, whereas it significantly increased serum triglycerides and plasma free fatty acids; these were possibly secondary to nicotine-induced catecholamine release. Blood thromboplastic activity as well as platelet aggregation were significantly increased. On the other hand blood fibrinolytic and prothrombin activities were unaffected. These results were discussed.", "PMID": 441111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5091", "title": "Assessing exercise tolerance: a review.", "content": "The purpose of this article is to provide guidelines for monitoring and assessing exercise tolerance. Monitoring and interpreting pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration, skin characteristics, fatigue, pain, coordination, and electrocardiography are discussed. The basis for applying these principles to graded-exercise-tolerance testing is also discussed.", "contents": "Assessing exercise tolerance: a review. The purpose of this article is to provide guidelines for monitoring and assessing exercise tolerance. Monitoring and interpreting pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration, skin characteristics, fatigue, pain, coordination, and electrocardiography are discussed. The basis for applying these principles to graded-exercise-tolerance testing is also discussed.", "PMID": 441112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5092", "title": "Energy cost of walking of below-knee amputees having no vascular disease.", "content": "Fifteen unilateral below-knee amputees with no preexisting vascular disease were studied during free velocity walking to determine energy expenditure with and without a prosthesis. Expired air was collected, and heart rate and respiratory rate data were telemetered. Mean velocity for the unrestrained walking was 71 m/min, both during ambulation with a prosthesis and during crutch walking (without a prosthesis). Heart rates were within normal ranges during prosthetic walking (106 beats/min), but rose significantly to 135 beats/min for crutch walking. Energy cost also rose significantly from a mean of 15.5 ml O2/kg/min with a prosthesis of 22.3 ml O2/kg/min with crutches. The oxygen uptake measured in units of ml O2/kg/m increased when the subjects walked faster or slower than their free cadence. We concluded that the use of the prosthesis should be encouraged and that the amputee should be allowed to choose his natural velocity of walking.", "contents": "Energy cost of walking of below-knee amputees having no vascular disease. Fifteen unilateral below-knee amputees with no preexisting vascular disease were studied during free velocity walking to determine energy expenditure with and without a prosthesis. Expired air was collected, and heart rate and respiratory rate data were telemetered. Mean velocity for the unrestrained walking was 71 m/min, both during ambulation with a prosthesis and during crutch walking (without a prosthesis). Heart rates were within normal ranges during prosthetic walking (106 beats/min), but rose significantly to 135 beats/min for crutch walking. Energy cost also rose significantly from a mean of 15.5 ml O2/kg/min with a prosthesis of 22.3 ml O2/kg/min with crutches. The oxygen uptake measured in units of ml O2/kg/m increased when the subjects walked faster or slower than their free cadence. We concluded that the use of the prosthesis should be encouraged and that the amputee should be allowed to choose his natural velocity of walking.", "PMID": 441113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5093", "title": "The right to health care. Ideal or imperative?", "content": "The purpose of this presentation is to increase the physcial therapist's understanding of the current concept of a \"right to health care\" and to explore the moral implications for physical therapy arising out of the various interpretations currently being advanced. The term \"right\" is used in two ways: 1) \"freedom right,\" providing freedoms from certain types of interferences and 2) \"entitlement rights,\" calling for positive action on the part of others. The right to health care is viewed as an entitlement right. As such, it has been variously interpreted as a praiseworthy ideal or an imperative upon society. The moral implications associated with accepting either position are briefly examined, giving special attention to the dilemmas and promises posed for physical therapists in both positions.", "contents": "The right to health care. Ideal or imperative? The purpose of this presentation is to increase the physcial therapist's understanding of the current concept of a \"right to health care\" and to explore the moral implications for physical therapy arising out of the various interpretations currently being advanced. The term \"right\" is used in two ways: 1) \"freedom right,\" providing freedoms from certain types of interferences and 2) \"entitlement rights,\" calling for positive action on the part of others. The right to health care is viewed as an entitlement right. As such, it has been variously interpreted as a praiseworthy ideal or an imperative upon society. The moral implications associated with accepting either position are briefly examined, giving special attention to the dilemmas and promises posed for physical therapists in both positions.", "PMID": 441117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5094", "title": "The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex in normal full-term infants.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to determine whether the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex was present in normal 1- to 12-week-old infants. Twelve infants were observed seven times within the first 12 weeks: at the first and second week and every other week thereafter. Spontaneous behavior was videotaped while the infant lay supine. Infants maintained a head-turned posture during every visit. The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex was present: 1) in the infants' arms during every visit, at a maximum at the sixth week; 2) in their legs, with the longest duration of the response at the first week's visit; and 3) in both arms and legs, with no change throughout seven visits. There were more movements of the face arm than of the skull arm during the seven visits, and the additional movements were in the extension range. The face leg moved more than the skull leg, but only at the 6th, 8th, and 10th weeks. The study confirms that the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex can be observed in the posture and movement of normal infants and that the pattern of appearance of the reflex differs in arms and legs.", "contents": "The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex in normal full-term infants. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex was present in normal 1- to 12-week-old infants. Twelve infants were observed seven times within the first 12 weeks: at the first and second week and every other week thereafter. Spontaneous behavior was videotaped while the infant lay supine. Infants maintained a head-turned posture during every visit. The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex was present: 1) in the infants' arms during every visit, at a maximum at the sixth week; 2) in their legs, with the longest duration of the response at the first week's visit; and 3) in both arms and legs, with no change throughout seven visits. There were more movements of the face arm than of the skull arm during the seven visits, and the additional movements were in the extension range. The face leg moved more than the skull leg, but only at the 6th, 8th, and 10th weeks. The study confirms that the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex can be observed in the posture and movement of normal infants and that the pattern of appearance of the reflex differs in arms and legs.", "PMID": 441119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5095", "title": "Establishing activity and training levels for patients with ischemic heart disease.", "content": "The paper presents guidelines for determining ideal training heart rates and recreational and occupational energy-cost levels for individual patients with ischemic heart disease. These guidelines were established by Karvonen, are based on results of progressive exercise testing, and have been applied to a broad spectrum of subjects in outpatient conditioning programs. How to apply these guidelines to establish beneficial and safe activity levels is illustrated with a fictional patient's medical history, progressive exercise test results, and recreational and occupational history and preferences.", "contents": "Establishing activity and training levels for patients with ischemic heart disease. The paper presents guidelines for determining ideal training heart rates and recreational and occupational energy-cost levels for individual patients with ischemic heart disease. These guidelines were established by Karvonen, are based on results of progressive exercise testing, and have been applied to a broad spectrum of subjects in outpatient conditioning programs. How to apply these guidelines to establish beneficial and safe activity levels is illustrated with a fictional patient's medical history, progressive exercise test results, and recreational and occupational history and preferences.", "PMID": 441120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5096", "title": "The effect of an exercise program on change in curve in adolescents with minimal idiopathic scoliosis. A preliminary study.", "content": "Forty-two adolescents with minimal idiopathic scoliosis, who had been on an exercise program for 9 to 15 months, were evaluated to determine the influence of exercise on change in their curvatures. A difference of 4 degrees or greater between initial and final curve measurements was considered to be a change. Five percent of the curves increased, 74% remained the same, and 21% decreased. Change in curvature for these patients was also compared with that of a matched retrospective group of adolescents with scoliosis who had not had the exercise program. No significant difference in change in curve between the two groups was found. For patients who had been on the exercise program, there was no significant relationship between change in curve and extent of physical activity or between change in curve and exercise recall, correct performance, or frequency. Limitations in the study design and possible explanations for the results are discussed.", "contents": "The effect of an exercise program on change in curve in adolescents with minimal idiopathic scoliosis. A preliminary study. Forty-two adolescents with minimal idiopathic scoliosis, who had been on an exercise program for 9 to 15 months, were evaluated to determine the influence of exercise on change in their curvatures. A difference of 4 degrees or greater between initial and final curve measurements was considered to be a change. Five percent of the curves increased, 74% remained the same, and 21% decreased. Change in curvature for these patients was also compared with that of a matched retrospective group of adolescents with scoliosis who had not had the exercise program. No significant difference in change in curve between the two groups was found. For patients who had been on the exercise program, there was no significant relationship between change in curve and extent of physical activity or between change in curve and exercise recall, correct performance, or frequency. Limitations in the study design and possible explanations for the results are discussed.", "PMID": 441121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5097", "title": "Is there a reduction mammaplasty for \"all seasons?\".", "content": "No technique will serve the needs of all patients requiring a reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy. However, the modified, inferiorly-based dermal flap technique appears to us to offer the most advantages and the greatest latitude for a predictable breast reduction in most of these patients.", "contents": "Is there a reduction mammaplasty for \"all seasons?\". No technique will serve the needs of all patients requiring a reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy. However, the modified, inferiorly-based dermal flap technique appears to us to offer the most advantages and the greatest latitude for a predictable breast reduction in most of these patients.", "PMID": 441191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5098", "title": "Prevention of muscle necrosis in an experimental neurovascular island muscle flap by a vasodilator drug--isoxsuprine.", "content": "We report an experiment that demonstrates one means to prevent necrosis in an experimental island muscle flap. The results imply that necrosis of skeletal muscle in a clinical flap could be prevented by treatment with isoxsuprine.", "contents": "Prevention of muscle necrosis in an experimental neurovascular island muscle flap by a vasodilator drug--isoxsuprine. We report an experiment that demonstrates one means to prevent necrosis in an experimental island muscle flap. The results imply that necrosis of skeletal muscle in a clinical flap could be prevented by treatment with isoxsuprine.", "PMID": 441192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5099", "title": "Five-year history of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, 1974--1978.", "content": "This report was intended to summarize the significant happenings in the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and its affiliates, from the end of the annual meeting in 1973 to the end of the 1978 annual meeting. It was decided to not include our sister organizations--the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons--because their historians publish periodic reports about their activities. I am sure that the future reports of historians will record with pride the continued growth and development of plastic surgery, because the future of our specialty has never seemed brighter.", "contents": "Five-year history of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, 1974--1978. This report was intended to summarize the significant happenings in the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and its affiliates, from the end of the annual meeting in 1973 to the end of the 1978 annual meeting. It was decided to not include our sister organizations--the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons--because their historians publish periodic reports about their activities. I am sure that the future reports of historians will record with pride the continued growth and development of plastic surgery, because the future of our specialty has never seemed brighter.", "PMID": 441194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5100", "title": "The fate of breast implants with infections around them.", "content": "In a retrospective study of 41 infected breasts following the insertion of implants, a high incidence of postoperative hematoma was noted. When infection occurred, cultures usually demonstrated the causative organism to be Staphylococcus aureus. Treatment by conservative drainage and vigorous antibiotics was generally successful in salvaging those implants which had been inserted through an areolar incision for simple augmentation, or under the pectoralis muscle (or a dermal pedicle) after a subcutaneous mastectomy. Those patients whose augmentations had been done through an inframammary incision, or whose implant after a subcutaneous mastectomy was under the skin flap, had a statistically higher incidence of implant loss. Most breasts will salvaged implants became firm.", "contents": "The fate of breast implants with infections around them. In a retrospective study of 41 infected breasts following the insertion of implants, a high incidence of postoperative hematoma was noted. When infection occurred, cultures usually demonstrated the causative organism to be Staphylococcus aureus. Treatment by conservative drainage and vigorous antibiotics was generally successful in salvaging those implants which had been inserted through an areolar incision for simple augmentation, or under the pectoralis muscle (or a dermal pedicle) after a subcutaneous mastectomy. Those patients whose augmentations had been done through an inframammary incision, or whose implant after a subcutaneous mastectomy was under the skin flap, had a statistically higher incidence of implant loss. Most breasts will salvaged implants became firm.", "PMID": 441195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5101", "title": "Successful lymph node transplantation in rats, with restoration of lymphatic function.", "content": "After doing a popliteal lymphadenectomy in rats, we were able to transfer a mass of inguinal nodes to the area, either on an island pedicle of the superficial epigastric vessels, or as a free flap by microvascular anastomoses. The transplants survived and at 7 days were able to entrap india ink particles, or particles of radioactive gold, injected in the distal part of the extremity.", "contents": "Successful lymph node transplantation in rats, with restoration of lymphatic function. After doing a popliteal lymphadenectomy in rats, we were able to transfer a mass of inguinal nodes to the area, either on an island pedicle of the superficial epigastric vessels, or as a free flap by microvascular anastomoses. The transplants survived and at 7 days were able to entrap india ink particles, or particles of radioactive gold, injected in the distal part of the extremity.", "PMID": 441196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5102", "title": "Aneurysms after microvascular anastomoses. Incidence and pathogenesis in experimental animals.", "content": "This study has demonstrated that aneurysms occur in about 50 percent of the rat femoral arteries subjected to microvascular anastomosis. These aneurysms are consistent histologically--being characterized by medial necrosis, loss of elastic lamellae, and subintimal hyperplasia. Mechanical trauma is implicated as a factor in their pathogenesis, though further study in necessary to define the exact etiology.", "contents": "Aneurysms after microvascular anastomoses. Incidence and pathogenesis in experimental animals. This study has demonstrated that aneurysms occur in about 50 percent of the rat femoral arteries subjected to microvascular anastomosis. These aneurysms are consistent histologically--being characterized by medial necrosis, loss of elastic lamellae, and subintimal hyperplasia. Mechanical trauma is implicated as a factor in their pathogenesis, though further study in necessary to define the exact etiology.", "PMID": 441197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5103", "title": "Easy removal of a partially embedded ring from a finger.", "content": "An unusual case of a wedding band embedded under the skin of the ring finger is presented. A technique for removal of an embedded ring is described, which avoids additional trauma to the finger.", "contents": "Easy removal of a partially embedded ring from a finger. An unusual case of a wedding band embedded under the skin of the ring finger is presented. A technique for removal of an embedded ring is described, which avoids additional trauma to the finger.", "PMID": 441201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5104", "title": "Blowout fracture of the medial orbital wall, with entrapment of the medial rectus muscle.", "content": "A case of fracture of the orbital wall, with entrapment of the medial rectus muscle and paresis of the 6th nerve in association with a large fracture of the orbital floor, is presented. The diagnosis was made primarily by the forced duction test.", "contents": "Blowout fracture of the medial orbital wall, with entrapment of the medial rectus muscle. A case of fracture of the orbital wall, with entrapment of the medial rectus muscle and paresis of the 6th nerve in association with a large fracture of the orbital floor, is presented. The diagnosis was made primarily by the forced duction test.", "PMID": 441202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5105", "title": "[Serum creatine kinase activity in psychoses].", "content": "This is a report of the initial results of determinations of the creatine kinase activity in the serum of forty psychiatric and twenty-five neurological patients. A determination of the creatine kinase activity made in the first days of an acute endogenous psychosis invariably showed an increase in creatine kinase which returned to normal values after eight to fourteen days. Patients with residual schizophrenia, conditions of acute excitation accompanying psychopathy, and abnormal personality or circumscribed paranoid development showed creatine activity in the range of normal values. Alcoholics with incipient or strongly marked delirium tremens showed normal creatine kinase activity in those cases where the situation was not complicated by additional traumata or other accompanying diseases.", "contents": "[Serum creatine kinase activity in psychoses]. This is a report of the initial results of determinations of the creatine kinase activity in the serum of forty psychiatric and twenty-five neurological patients. A determination of the creatine kinase activity made in the first days of an acute endogenous psychosis invariably showed an increase in creatine kinase which returned to normal values after eight to fourteen days. Patients with residual schizophrenia, conditions of acute excitation accompanying psychopathy, and abnormal personality or circumscribed paranoid development showed creatine activity in the range of normal values. Alcoholics with incipient or strongly marked delirium tremens showed normal creatine kinase activity in those cases where the situation was not complicated by additional traumata or other accompanying diseases.", "PMID": 441205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5106", "title": "[Medical prerequisites for the rehabilitation of adult epileptics].", "content": "The rehabilitation of adult epileptics may be substantially improved by (1) having all patients suffering from attacks carefully examined by specialists; (2) perfecting methods of diagnosis with the goal of drastically reducing the number of inexplainable cases of epilepsy; (3) making further progress in therapy and improving the present methods of checking the results of treatment; (4) and removing prejudices against both epilepsy and epileptics.", "contents": "[Medical prerequisites for the rehabilitation of adult epileptics]. The rehabilitation of adult epileptics may be substantially improved by (1) having all patients suffering from attacks carefully examined by specialists; (2) perfecting methods of diagnosis with the goal of drastically reducing the number of inexplainable cases of epilepsy; (3) making further progress in therapy and improving the present methods of checking the results of treatment; (4) and removing prejudices against both epilepsy and epileptics.", "PMID": 441206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5107", "title": "[Diagnostic problems of chronic misuse of barbiturate-free sedatives].", "content": "Atypical neuropsychiatric disease pictures resulting from chronic abuse of barbiturate-free soporifics are often misinterpreted diagnostically. The problems of diagnosis are discussed on the basis of experience gathered by the authors and with due consideration of results reported in the literature.", "contents": "[Diagnostic problems of chronic misuse of barbiturate-free sedatives]. Atypical neuropsychiatric disease pictures resulting from chronic abuse of barbiturate-free soporifics are often misinterpreted diagnostically. The problems of diagnosis are discussed on the basis of experience gathered by the authors and with due consideration of results reported in the literature.", "PMID": 441207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5108", "title": "[Oral automatism in acute coma].", "content": "Of 98 patients in ai acute state of coma different etiology, 18 (or 18.4 percent) showed series of rhythmic oral motions (\"chewing automatisms\"). Only one of these patients was observed to develop an apallic syndrome. The characteristic features of chewing automatisms and their concomitant symptoms are described, and the need for delimiting them from more differentiated oral-motor patterns is emphasized. Both forms are of different importance to an assessment of the respective course of disease. The observation of chewing automatisms in acute states of coma does not allow the incipient development of an apallic syndrome to be inferred.", "contents": "[Oral automatism in acute coma]. Of 98 patients in ai acute state of coma different etiology, 18 (or 18.4 percent) showed series of rhythmic oral motions (\"chewing automatisms\"). Only one of these patients was observed to develop an apallic syndrome. The characteristic features of chewing automatisms and their concomitant symptoms are described, and the need for delimiting them from more differentiated oral-motor patterns is emphasized. Both forms are of different importance to an assessment of the respective course of disease. The observation of chewing automatisms in acute states of coma does not allow the incipient development of an apallic syndrome to be inferred.", "PMID": 441208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5109", "title": "Depressive affect, anxiety, and psychic conflict in the phallic-oedipal phase.", "content": "The author's recent contributions to affect theory and its relation to psychic conflict are applied to the understanding of the nature, genesis, and consequences of psychic conflict in the phallic-oedipal phase. These contributions lead to a better understanding of 1) the importance of depressive affect in phallic-oedipal conflicts, 2) similarities and differences between such conflicts in boys and girls, 3) depression as a symptom in adult life, and 4) some aspects of narcissism.", "contents": "Depressive affect, anxiety, and psychic conflict in the phallic-oedipal phase. The author's recent contributions to affect theory and its relation to psychic conflict are applied to the understanding of the nature, genesis, and consequences of psychic conflict in the phallic-oedipal phase. These contributions lead to a better understanding of 1) the importance of depressive affect in phallic-oedipal conflicts, 2) similarities and differences between such conflicts in boys and girls, 3) depression as a symptom in adult life, and 4) some aspects of narcissism.", "PMID": 441209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5110", "title": "An approach to the study of analyzability and analyses: the course of forty consecutive cases selected for supervised analysis.", "content": "The cases of 40 consecutive patients, accepted for supervised psychoanalysis at the Treatment Center of The New York Psychoanalytic Institute, are reviewed. The process of the initial evaluation is examined as well as the nature of the patient group, the characteristics of the treatment, outcome, and follow-up data. A survey of a group of 42 patients from the private practice of a group of graduate analysts during the same period of time is also reported. Both studies are discussed in relation to methodological issues, and an approach is suggested for the study of assessment of analyzability and analyses through a systematic prospective study of analytic treatments conducted by experienced analysts.", "contents": "An approach to the study of analyzability and analyses: the course of forty consecutive cases selected for supervised analysis. The cases of 40 consecutive patients, accepted for supervised psychoanalysis at the Treatment Center of The New York Psychoanalytic Institute, are reviewed. The process of the initial evaluation is examined as well as the nature of the patient group, the characteristics of the treatment, outcome, and follow-up data. A survey of a group of 42 patients from the private practice of a group of graduate analysts during the same period of time is also reported. Both studies are discussed in relation to methodological issues, and an approach is suggested for the study of assessment of analyzability and analyses through a systematic prospective study of analytic treatments conducted by experienced analysts.", "PMID": 441210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5111", "title": "Form creation in rat: an ego-psychological approach to creativity.", "content": "The recent ego-psychological approach to form in art is utilized to understand the significance of form creation to artistic creativity in general. Two kinds of form in art are discussed--\"good form\" and \"perfect form\". The first is explained as the means used by the artist's ego to facilitate the expression and communication of latent meanings; the second, as the means used by the artist's ego to order disparate mental elements and to reconcile those opposite wishes, ideas, and emotions, whose opposite valences may endanger the integrity and cohesion of the self. In line with the assumptions presented in the paper, creativity and neurosis are described as two different methods used by the ego to solve the same underlying problems.", "contents": "Form creation in rat: an ego-psychological approach to creativity. The recent ego-psychological approach to form in art is utilized to understand the significance of form creation to artistic creativity in general. Two kinds of form in art are discussed--\"good form\" and \"perfect form\". The first is explained as the means used by the artist's ego to facilitate the expression and communication of latent meanings; the second, as the means used by the artist's ego to order disparate mental elements and to reconcile those opposite wishes, ideas, and emotions, whose opposite valences may endanger the integrity and cohesion of the self. In line with the assumptions presented in the paper, creativity and neurosis are described as two different methods used by the ego to solve the same underlying problems.", "PMID": 441211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5112", "title": "Imaginary companions in childhood and adult creativity.", "content": "Case material is presented to illustrate the thesis that the ability to create an imaginary companion during childhood is an early expression of the special ego aptitudes found in creative individuals in adult life. Such \"companions\" allow these children to attempt to master creatively a variety of narcissistic mortifications suffered in reality and to displace unacceptable affects. In creative adults who had imaginary companions in childhood, the early fantasies serve as an organizing schema in memory for the childhood traumata. Stimuli in adult life which evoke the earlier traumata may revive the original imaginary companion fantasies. These then serve as nodal bases for the creation of specific adult works of art.", "contents": "Imaginary companions in childhood and adult creativity. Case material is presented to illustrate the thesis that the ability to create an imaginary companion during childhood is an early expression of the special ego aptitudes found in creative individuals in adult life. Such \"companions\" allow these children to attempt to master creatively a variety of narcissistic mortifications suffered in reality and to displace unacceptable affects. In creative adults who had imaginary companions in childhood, the early fantasies serve as an organizing schema in memory for the childhood traumata. Stimuli in adult life which evoke the earlier traumata may revive the original imaginary companion fantasies. These then serve as nodal bases for the creation of specific adult works of art.", "PMID": 441213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5113", "title": "A signal detection analysis of the effects of transcutaneous stimulation on pain.", "content": "Transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TNS) applied both ipsilaterally and contralaterally with a tonic pain stimulus was compared to a control condition to determine its effect on pain reports. The ipsilateral TNS condition significantly reduced ratings and increased pain thresholds relative to the contralateral and control conditions which did not significantly differ from each other. A Signal Detection Theory analysis of the data was employed to assess the sensitivity and response bias effects of the treatment conditions. Ipsilateral TNS significantly reduced pain sensitivity and response bias in the direction of showing a lesser tendency to report pain. The effects of ipsilateral TNS were most pronounced at the higher levels of stimulation. The results are consistent with Gate Control Theory which holds that ipsilateral TNS attenuates painful sensation. Most importantly, these results support the efficacy of TNS for the treatment of clinical pain.", "contents": "A signal detection analysis of the effects of transcutaneous stimulation on pain. Transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TNS) applied both ipsilaterally and contralaterally with a tonic pain stimulus was compared to a control condition to determine its effect on pain reports. The ipsilateral TNS condition significantly reduced ratings and increased pain thresholds relative to the contralateral and control conditions which did not significantly differ from each other. A Signal Detection Theory analysis of the data was employed to assess the sensitivity and response bias effects of the treatment conditions. Ipsilateral TNS significantly reduced pain sensitivity and response bias in the direction of showing a lesser tendency to report pain. The effects of ipsilateral TNS were most pronounced at the higher levels of stimulation. The results are consistent with Gate Control Theory which holds that ipsilateral TNS attenuates painful sensation. Most importantly, these results support the efficacy of TNS for the treatment of clinical pain.", "PMID": 441227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5114", "title": "Medical outcome in asthmatic patients: effects of airways hyperreactivity and symptom-focused anxiety.", "content": "Hypotheses about medical outcome in asthma, indexed by rates of rehospitalization within 6 months after discharge from long-term intensive care, were evaluated. Predictions for rehospitalization were based on the levels of airways hyperreactivity, indexed by inhalation challenges with histamine or methacholine, and levels of anxiety focused upon and concurrent with periods of asthmatic distress, indexed by Panic-Fear symptomatology. Results indicated that, although some prediction could be made on the basis of levels of anxiety and airways hyperreactivity alone, the best predictions resulted from the combined effects of these factors. Almost half of the patients who had highly hyperreactive airways and a tendency to disregard symptoms of breathing difficulty were rehospitalized. By comparison, none of the patients who had less hyperreactive airways and a tendency to be vigilant about their symptoms were rehospitalized. The hypotheses and results are discussed with respect to symptom-focused and general, illness-dependent types of anxiety which have different effects upon medical outcome in chronic asthma. The results have implications for the application of anxiety-reducing forms of intervention in asthma.", "contents": "Medical outcome in asthmatic patients: effects of airways hyperreactivity and symptom-focused anxiety. Hypotheses about medical outcome in asthma, indexed by rates of rehospitalization within 6 months after discharge from long-term intensive care, were evaluated. Predictions for rehospitalization were based on the levels of airways hyperreactivity, indexed by inhalation challenges with histamine or methacholine, and levels of anxiety focused upon and concurrent with periods of asthmatic distress, indexed by Panic-Fear symptomatology. Results indicated that, although some prediction could be made on the basis of levels of anxiety and airways hyperreactivity alone, the best predictions resulted from the combined effects of these factors. Almost half of the patients who had highly hyperreactive airways and a tendency to disregard symptoms of breathing difficulty were rehospitalized. By comparison, none of the patients who had less hyperreactive airways and a tendency to be vigilant about their symptoms were rehospitalized. The hypotheses and results are discussed with respect to symptom-focused and general, illness-dependent types of anxiety which have different effects upon medical outcome in chronic asthma. The results have implications for the application of anxiety-reducing forms of intervention in asthma.", "PMID": 441228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5115", "title": "Adjustment in diabetic adolescent Girls: I. Development of the Diabetic Adjustment Scale.", "content": "A 37-item scale was designed to assess life adjustment in 105 adolescent girls with juvenile diabetes. The scale elicited information on peer relationships, family relationships, body image concerns, dependence-independence conflicts, school adjustment, and attitudes toward diabetes. Results of this initial attempt at measuring diabetic adjustment suggest that this group of girls was relatively well adjusted and that their attitudes toward diabetes correlate positively with many adjustment factors. The importance of self-report scales which address the realities of life with diabetes is emphasized.", "contents": "Adjustment in diabetic adolescent Girls: I. Development of the Diabetic Adjustment Scale. A 37-item scale was designed to assess life adjustment in 105 adolescent girls with juvenile diabetes. The scale elicited information on peer relationships, family relationships, body image concerns, dependence-independence conflicts, school adjustment, and attitudes toward diabetes. Results of this initial attempt at measuring diabetic adjustment suggest that this group of girls was relatively well adjusted and that their attitudes toward diabetes correlate positively with many adjustment factors. The importance of self-report scales which address the realities of life with diabetes is emphasized.", "PMID": 441229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5116", "title": "Adjustment in diabetic adolescent girls: II. Adjustment, self-esteem, and depression in diabetic adolescent girls.", "content": "The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Sullivan Diabetic Adjustment Scale were administered to 105 adolescent girls with diabetes. Results indicate that levels of self-esteem and depression highly correlate with the level of adjustment as assessed on the Diabetic Adjustment Scale (DAS). That is, the adjustment of adolescent diabetic girls in peer and family relationships, dependence-independence conflicts, and attitudes toward diabetes is significantly related to self-esteem; and the level of depression is significantly related to all these adjustment factors as well as body image. The results point to the usefulness of the DAS as a potential screening device for low self-esteem and depression in adolescent girls who have diabetes. The importance of diabetes as a scapegoat for normal adolescent concerns is discussed. It was also hypothesized that depression in adolescents may be expressed through concerns about diabetes. The importance of exploring relationships with peers and fathers is emphasized.", "contents": "Adjustment in diabetic adolescent girls: II. Adjustment, self-esteem, and depression in diabetic adolescent girls. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Sullivan Diabetic Adjustment Scale were administered to 105 adolescent girls with diabetes. Results indicate that levels of self-esteem and depression highly correlate with the level of adjustment as assessed on the Diabetic Adjustment Scale (DAS). That is, the adjustment of adolescent diabetic girls in peer and family relationships, dependence-independence conflicts, and attitudes toward diabetes is significantly related to self-esteem; and the level of depression is significantly related to all these adjustment factors as well as body image. The results point to the usefulness of the DAS as a potential screening device for low self-esteem and depression in adolescent girls who have diabetes. The importance of diabetes as a scapegoat for normal adolescent concerns is discussed. It was also hypothesized that depression in adolescents may be expressed through concerns about diabetes. The importance of exploring relationships with peers and fathers is emphasized.", "PMID": 441230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5117", "title": "Learned control of coronary blood flow.", "content": "Mongrel dogs with chronically implanted electromagnetic flow probes on the left coronary artery were curarized and trained to decrease coronary blood flow in order to avoid and escape from stress. Each of four animals learned to consistently decrease coronary flow with increasing independence from changes in other cardiovascular dynamics. One animal achieved dramatic decreases suggestive of profound coronary vasoconstriction. The results may have important implications for the understanding of ischemic heart disease.", "contents": "Learned control of coronary blood flow. Mongrel dogs with chronically implanted electromagnetic flow probes on the left coronary artery were curarized and trained to decrease coronary blood flow in order to avoid and escape from stress. Each of four animals learned to consistently decrease coronary flow with increasing independence from changes in other cardiovascular dynamics. One animal achieved dramatic decreases suggestive of profound coronary vasoconstriction. The results may have important implications for the understanding of ischemic heart disease.", "PMID": 441231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5118", "title": "Computed tomography of the pancreas: a new roentgenographic examination.", "content": "Lesions of the pancreas are considered to be among the most difficult lesions to visualize roentgenographically. The capability of computed tomography to record accurately the attenuation coefficients of human body tissue in cross section has enabled detailed images of the pancreas to be obtained for the first time. Computed tomography is proving to be one of the most reliable imaging modalities for demonstrating some of the many complex lesions of the pancreas.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the pancreas: a new roentgenographic examination. Lesions of the pancreas are considered to be among the most difficult lesions to visualize roentgenographically. The capability of computed tomography to record accurately the attenuation coefficients of human body tissue in cross section has enabled detailed images of the pancreas to be obtained for the first time. Computed tomography is proving to be one of the most reliable imaging modalities for demonstrating some of the many complex lesions of the pancreas.", "PMID": 441288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5119", "title": "Systematic approach to inservice education.", "content": "To insure the success of an inservice education program in radiology, it is necessary for persons with the responsibility for it to base all programs on the needs of the patients, department, technologists, and other workers. In determining these needs and applying solutions to meet these needs, a systematic approach such as the one presented here should be used. It should guide those persons involved from a realization that needs exist to the implementation and evaluation of workable solutions.", "contents": "Systematic approach to inservice education. To insure the success of an inservice education program in radiology, it is necessary for persons with the responsibility for it to base all programs on the needs of the patients, department, technologists, and other workers. In determining these needs and applying solutions to meet these needs, a systematic approach such as the one presented here should be used. It should guide those persons involved from a realization that needs exist to the implementation and evaluation of workable solutions.", "PMID": 441289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5120", "title": "Integration of clinical physics in radiation therapy education.", "content": "The need and importance of training in clinical physics for the radiation student cannot be overemphasized. Through the approach described--the integration of clinical physics tutorial sessions with radiation therapy educational programs--there is no doubt that the student should be well versed in clinical physics before the completion of the program. It will enhance the technologists's position among his colleagues and he will be able to communicate intelligently with the three-member team--the radiation oncologist, the clinical physicist, and the radiation therapy technologist. The time and effort that the physics section extends to the student in radiation therapy technology will only enhance the professional status of the radiation therapy technological community.", "contents": "Integration of clinical physics in radiation therapy education. The need and importance of training in clinical physics for the radiation student cannot be overemphasized. Through the approach described--the integration of clinical physics tutorial sessions with radiation therapy educational programs--there is no doubt that the student should be well versed in clinical physics before the completion of the program. It will enhance the technologists's position among his colleagues and he will be able to communicate intelligently with the three-member team--the radiation oncologist, the clinical physicist, and the radiation therapy technologist. The time and effort that the physics section extends to the student in radiation therapy technology will only enhance the professional status of the radiation therapy technological community.", "PMID": 441290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5121", "title": "[\"Polycystic disease\": evaluation of the value of nuclear medicine. A case report (author's transl)].", "content": "The value of examining \"polycystic disease\" by means of nuclear medicine is being demonstrated -- using one case as an example. Nuclear medicine studies, because of their inherent capability of evaluating both morphology and function at the same time, seem to place this method ahead of others, including ultrasound and C.T.", "contents": "[\"Polycystic disease\": evaluation of the value of nuclear medicine. A case report (author's transl)]. The value of examining \"polycystic disease\" by means of nuclear medicine is being demonstrated -- using one case as an example. Nuclear medicine studies, because of their inherent capability of evaluating both morphology and function at the same time, seem to place this method ahead of others, including ultrasound and C.T.", "PMID": 441297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5122", "title": "[The anterior chorioidal artery and the posterior communicating artery in traumatic lesions of the middle cranial fossa (author's transl)].", "content": "The anterior chorioidal artery and the posterior communicating artery are for the angiographic evaluation of space occupying lesions in the middle cranial fossa very important. Dislocation of the temporal lobe can be differentiated in 5 types by angiographic demonstration of these arteries.", "contents": "[The anterior chorioidal artery and the posterior communicating artery in traumatic lesions of the middle cranial fossa (author's transl)]. The anterior chorioidal artery and the posterior communicating artery are for the angiographic evaluation of space occupying lesions in the middle cranial fossa very important. Dislocation of the temporal lobe can be differentiated in 5 types by angiographic demonstration of these arteries.", "PMID": 441298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5123", "title": "X-ray tube failures and prevention: a preliminary report.", "content": "In a busy radiology department, the failure of a radiographic or fluoroscopic x-ray tube is costly in respect to the replacement of the tube and the amount of time that the radiographic or fluoroscopic suite is down. Several examples of tube failures are given, many methods of how tube failures can be prevented are discussed, and illustrative cases are shown.", "contents": "X-ray tube failures and prevention: a preliminary report. In a busy radiology department, the failure of a radiographic or fluoroscopic x-ray tube is costly in respect to the replacement of the tube and the amount of time that the radiographic or fluoroscopic suite is down. Several examples of tube failures are given, many methods of how tube failures can be prevented are discussed, and illustrative cases are shown.", "PMID": 441291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5124", "title": "Student preceptorships--a factor in alleviating maldistribution of health professionals?", "content": "The maldistribution of health professionals between metropolitan and rural areas is a well-documented fact. The preceptorship has been hypothesized as a means of alleviating this problem. Upon completion of a preceptorship in radiologic technology, the students completed a questionnaire concerning values and interpretations derived from the preceptorship. This paper describes the results of the preceptorship and questionnaire.", "contents": "Student preceptorships--a factor in alleviating maldistribution of health professionals? The maldistribution of health professionals between metropolitan and rural areas is a well-documented fact. The preceptorship has been hypothesized as a means of alleviating this problem. Upon completion of a preceptorship in radiologic technology, the students completed a questionnaire concerning values and interpretations derived from the preceptorship. This paper describes the results of the preceptorship and questionnaire.", "PMID": 441292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5125", "title": "[Extension of thoracic roentgen diagnosis by computer tomography (author's transl)].", "content": "In 400 examinations of the thorax results of computer tomography were compared with respective pa chest films and conbentional tomograms. In the peripheral areas of the lung, interstitial parenchymal alterations and metastases were better visualized by CT. The size of central bronchial carcinomas and space-occupying lesions of the thoracic wall can be determined with greater accuracy by CT. Primary tumors, lymphnode enlargement and vascular alterations can be differentiated and localized more precisely by CT. The size of the heart chambers, intracavitary tumors as well as septal and myocardial wall thickness can be determined non invasively.", "contents": "[Extension of thoracic roentgen diagnosis by computer tomography (author's transl)]. In 400 examinations of the thorax results of computer tomography were compared with respective pa chest films and conbentional tomograms. In the peripheral areas of the lung, interstitial parenchymal alterations and metastases were better visualized by CT. The size of central bronchial carcinomas and space-occupying lesions of the thoracic wall can be determined with greater accuracy by CT. Primary tumors, lymphnode enlargement and vascular alterations can be differentiated and localized more precisely by CT. The size of the heart chambers, intracavitary tumors as well as septal and myocardial wall thickness can be determined non invasively.", "PMID": 441299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5126", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics of intravascular contrast agents in computerized tomography (author's transl)].", "content": "The pharmacokinetic behaviour of intravascular renal and biliary contrast agents is being evaluated with help of CT-densitometry. Contrast enhancement is best with high-dose bolus injection and rapid sequence CT-scanning of at least 4 cuts per minute.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics of intravascular contrast agents in computerized tomography (author's transl)]. The pharmacokinetic behaviour of intravascular renal and biliary contrast agents is being evaluated with help of CT-densitometry. Contrast enhancement is best with high-dose bolus injection and rapid sequence CT-scanning of at least 4 cuts per minute.", "PMID": 441300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5127", "title": "[The use of a new renotropic contrast-medium in infants with special reference to magnesium metabolism (author's transl)].", "content": "Rayvist is the meglumine ioglicinate. This contrast medium is compared with Urovist in two groups of 15 infants. Electrolyte and osmolality changes in both groups are equal. In infants receiving Rayvist there were less gastro-intestinal distrubances than in those receiving Urovist. The drop of magnesium level in both groups is similar to the drop of calcium level following contrast medium injection. It is recommended to add calcium to the contrast medium in infants (1 ccm Calcium gluconicum 10% for 10 ccm contrast medium).", "contents": "[The use of a new renotropic contrast-medium in infants with special reference to magnesium metabolism (author's transl)]. Rayvist is the meglumine ioglicinate. This contrast medium is compared with Urovist in two groups of 15 infants. Electrolyte and osmolality changes in both groups are equal. In infants receiving Rayvist there were less gastro-intestinal distrubances than in those receiving Urovist. The drop of magnesium level in both groups is similar to the drop of calcium level following contrast medium injection. It is recommended to add calcium to the contrast medium in infants (1 ccm Calcium gluconicum 10% for 10 ccm contrast medium).", "PMID": 441301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5128", "title": "[Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants (author's transl)].", "content": "Clinical and laboratory data are frequently unspecific in acute hematogenous osteomyelitis of infants. As prognosis is dependent on early treatment, a timely radiologic diagnosis is mandatory. Because of specialties in the vascular supply, the roentgenmorphologic alterations of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants differ from the appearance of the disease in other age groups. The acute osteomyelitis in infants frequently leads to destruction of the epiphysis and purulent joint effusion. A subtle analysis of soft tissue lesions will already rise suspicion for acute hematogenous osteomyelitis before destructive or reactive osseous alterations prove the diagnosis by roentgenology. Nuclear medicine examinations of the bone have contributed significantly to radiologic diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants despite of few negative results. Osseous trauma and other diseases should be included in differential diagnosis. Especially in neonatals and premature infants, variations in the typical course and appearance of the disease may occur.", "contents": "[Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants (author's transl)]. Clinical and laboratory data are frequently unspecific in acute hematogenous osteomyelitis of infants. As prognosis is dependent on early treatment, a timely radiologic diagnosis is mandatory. Because of specialties in the vascular supply, the roentgenmorphologic alterations of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants differ from the appearance of the disease in other age groups. The acute osteomyelitis in infants frequently leads to destruction of the epiphysis and purulent joint effusion. A subtle analysis of soft tissue lesions will already rise suspicion for acute hematogenous osteomyelitis before destructive or reactive osseous alterations prove the diagnosis by roentgenology. Nuclear medicine examinations of the bone have contributed significantly to radiologic diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in infants despite of few negative results. Osseous trauma and other diseases should be included in differential diagnosis. Especially in neonatals and premature infants, variations in the typical course and appearance of the disease may occur.", "PMID": 441302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5129", "title": "[Soft tissue changes of fingers in rheumatoid arthritis. Results of low k.v. radiographs in three views (author's transl)].", "content": "Based upon a large series of low k.v. radiographs of fingers in three views, the X-ray anatomy of the soft tissue of fingers is presented and soft tissue changes in joints, tendons and tendon sheaths due to rheumatoid arthritis as well as perifocal effects of the inflammatory process upon the subcutaneous tissue and the skin are described. Because of the resolution of even minute soft tissue changes it is possible to recognize the incipient stage of rheumatoid arthritis and of relapses devoid of clinical symptoms.", "contents": "[Soft tissue changes of fingers in rheumatoid arthritis. Results of low k.v. radiographs in three views (author's transl)]. Based upon a large series of low k.v. radiographs of fingers in three views, the X-ray anatomy of the soft tissue of fingers is presented and soft tissue changes in joints, tendons and tendon sheaths due to rheumatoid arthritis as well as perifocal effects of the inflammatory process upon the subcutaneous tissue and the skin are described. Because of the resolution of even minute soft tissue changes it is possible to recognize the incipient stage of rheumatoid arthritis and of relapses devoid of clinical symptoms.", "PMID": 441303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5130", "title": "[Neuroradiological findings in epilepsies without consideration of cranial computerized tomography and radioactive brain scanning (author's transl)].", "content": "This paper gives a detailed summary of neuroradiological findings (X-rays of the skull, pneumoencephalograms and angiograms) in epilepsies and epileptic seizures, that is based on 902 patients, which have been treated in the Neuro-Psychiatric university hospital of Mainz during 1960 and 1975. First the different pathological findings and their frequency in relation to the single types of epilepsy are described. Then it is tried to draw conclusions from the neuroradiological findings to the etiology of the particular seizure-classes. In further passages important etiologies are chosen and the appearing different seizures with their neuroradiological findings are presented. Epilepsies due to unknown causes, due to brain damage in early childhood, post-traumatically, alcohologenic and caused by brain-tumors are considered. As no similar classification was found in the literature, our data could only be compared with those of different papers, each dealing with some aspects. In the absence of recent publications with statistical data we also had to refer to older papers. Differences between our results and those of the literature are discussed.", "contents": "[Neuroradiological findings in epilepsies without consideration of cranial computerized tomography and radioactive brain scanning (author's transl)]. This paper gives a detailed summary of neuroradiological findings (X-rays of the skull, pneumoencephalograms and angiograms) in epilepsies and epileptic seizures, that is based on 902 patients, which have been treated in the Neuro-Psychiatric university hospital of Mainz during 1960 and 1975. First the different pathological findings and their frequency in relation to the single types of epilepsy are described. Then it is tried to draw conclusions from the neuroradiological findings to the etiology of the particular seizure-classes. In further passages important etiologies are chosen and the appearing different seizures with their neuroradiological findings are presented. Epilepsies due to unknown causes, due to brain damage in early childhood, post-traumatically, alcohologenic and caused by brain-tumors are considered. As no similar classification was found in the literature, our data could only be compared with those of different papers, each dealing with some aspects. In the absence of recent publications with statistical data we also had to refer to older papers. Differences between our results and those of the literature are discussed.", "PMID": 441304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5131", "title": "[Right vertebral artery originating from the right common carotid (author's transl)].", "content": "In the study of 273 aortic arch angiograms, one case of right vertebral artery arising from the right common carotid artery was encountered. The embryology of this anomaly and its clinical significance are discussed.", "contents": "[Right vertebral artery originating from the right common carotid (author's transl)]. In the study of 273 aortic arch angiograms, one case of right vertebral artery arising from the right common carotid artery was encountered. The embryology of this anomaly and its clinical significance are discussed.", "PMID": 441305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5132", "title": "[Soft tissue hemorrhage in acute pelvic vein thrombosis. A rare phlebographic diagnosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Clinically suspected deep leg--and/or pelvic vein thrombosis nowadays is usually evaluated by ascending phlebography. This paper demonstrates the unusual additional finding of soft tissue hemorrhage--shown by Phlebography--in a 53 year old female suffering from acute pelvic vein thrombosis. A possible pathophysiologic mechanism for this hemorrhage is being discussed briefly.", "contents": "[Soft tissue hemorrhage in acute pelvic vein thrombosis. A rare phlebographic diagnosis (author's transl)]. Clinically suspected deep leg--and/or pelvic vein thrombosis nowadays is usually evaluated by ascending phlebography. This paper demonstrates the unusual additional finding of soft tissue hemorrhage--shown by Phlebography--in a 53 year old female suffering from acute pelvic vein thrombosis. A possible pathophysiologic mechanism for this hemorrhage is being discussed briefly.", "PMID": 441306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5133", "title": "Radiographic patterns of drug-induced lung diseases.", "content": "Drugs which induce lung disease are categorized according to the radiographic pattern of the disease. The five categories are: (a) diffuse interstitial (reticulo-nodular) findings, (b) diffuse air-space consolidation, (c) pleural effusion of fibrosis, (d) hilar or mediastinal widening, and (e) localized areas of consolidation. Information regarding onset, reversibility, fever, eosinophilia, and findings associated with each drug is presented. An extensive list of references is included.", "contents": "Radiographic patterns of drug-induced lung diseases. Drugs which induce lung disease are categorized according to the radiographic pattern of the disease. The five categories are: (a) diffuse interstitial (reticulo-nodular) findings, (b) diffuse air-space consolidation, (c) pleural effusion of fibrosis, (d) hilar or mediastinal widening, and (e) localized areas of consolidation. Information regarding onset, reversibility, fever, eosinophilia, and findings associated with each drug is presented. An extensive list of references is included.", "PMID": 441307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5134", "title": "Pulmonary lesions due to Dirofilaria immitis (dog heartworm). Report of four cases with radiologic findings.", "content": "Chest radiographs of 4 patients with Dirofilaria immitis (dog heartworm) revealed solitary, small, peripheral, noncalcified nodular lesions. The pulmonary lesions were apparently produced secondary to lodging of the parasite in peripheral pulmonary vessels. None of the patients had symptoms referable to the heartworm lesions. Needle aspiration in 2 patients revealed a nonspecific inflammatory lesion.", "contents": "Pulmonary lesions due to Dirofilaria immitis (dog heartworm). Report of four cases with radiologic findings. Chest radiographs of 4 patients with Dirofilaria immitis (dog heartworm) revealed solitary, small, peripheral, noncalcified nodular lesions. The pulmonary lesions were apparently produced secondary to lodging of the parasite in peripheral pulmonary vessels. None of the patients had symptoms referable to the heartworm lesions. Needle aspiration in 2 patients revealed a nonspecific inflammatory lesion.", "PMID": 441308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5135", "title": "The lateral radiograph for early diagnosis of lung cancer.", "content": "The authors reviewed lateral radiographs to analyze the first findings in lung cancer in three groups of patients: those with proved lung cancer (78 patients); those with lung cancer initially undetected (27 patients); and those who had chest radiographs for any reason (10,597 patients). In no instance was a lesion detected on the lateral view only.", "contents": "The lateral radiograph for early diagnosis of lung cancer. The authors reviewed lateral radiographs to analyze the first findings in lung cancer in three groups of patients: those with proved lung cancer (78 patients); those with lung cancer initially undetected (27 patients); and those who had chest radiographs for any reason (10,597 patients). In no instance was a lesion detected on the lateral view only.", "PMID": 441309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5136", "title": "Pulmonary pseudonodule.", "content": "A nodular density seen at the posterior lung base on lateral chest radiographs proved to be normal bone in the spine. This nodule results from slight thickening of the bone at the superior aspect of the area where the two laminae join to form the spinous process.", "contents": "Pulmonary pseudonodule. A nodular density seen at the posterior lung base on lateral chest radiographs proved to be normal bone in the spine. This nodule results from slight thickening of the bone at the superior aspect of the area where the two laminae join to form the spinous process.", "PMID": 441310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5137", "title": "The coracoclavicular joint.", "content": "The coracoclavicular joints are genetically determined anatomic variants. There are problems in determining their presence by dissection examination of osteologic material as well as by radiography. Based on a survey of published material and a prospective radiological survey carried out in Malaysia, it is clear that the anomaly is more frequent in Asia than in Europe and Africa. There is a high incidence in people from Southern China. The joints are subject to osteophytic marginal lipping without development of symptoms or disability.", "contents": "The coracoclavicular joint. The coracoclavicular joints are genetically determined anatomic variants. There are problems in determining their presence by dissection examination of osteologic material as well as by radiography. Based on a survey of published material and a prospective radiological survey carried out in Malaysia, it is clear that the anomaly is more frequent in Asia than in Europe and Africa. There is a high incidence in people from Southern China. The joints are subject to osteophytic marginal lipping without development of symptoms or disability.", "PMID": 441311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5138", "title": "Augmentation enterocystoplasty.", "content": "The anatomy and radiographic appearance of five types of augmentation enterocystoplasty (ileocystoplasty, cecocystoplasty, ileocecocystoplasty, sigmoidocystoplasty, and enterourethroplasty) are described. Retrograde cystrography is the procedure of choice for optimal visualization of an augmented bladder and most complications. Excretory urography is useful for following concurrent upper tract disease and ureteral stenosis. Critical factors in a optimal examination are maximal filling of the bladder and radiographs in multiple projections.", "contents": "Augmentation enterocystoplasty. The anatomy and radiographic appearance of five types of augmentation enterocystoplasty (ileocystoplasty, cecocystoplasty, ileocecocystoplasty, sigmoidocystoplasty, and enterourethroplasty) are described. Retrograde cystrography is the procedure of choice for optimal visualization of an augmented bladder and most complications. Excretory urography is useful for following concurrent upper tract disease and ureteral stenosis. Critical factors in a optimal examination are maximal filling of the bladder and radiographs in multiple projections.", "PMID": 441312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5139", "title": "Renal duplication with a diminutive lower pole: the Nubbin sign.", "content": "Eight patients with a duplex kidney demonstrated severe attenuation of parenchyma in the lower pole. The radiographic appearance of a diminutive lower collecting system indicated the proper diagnosis when there was sufficient parenchyma for visualization. Parenchymal attenuation may represent either hypoplasia or inflammatory atrophy. Whichever the cause, it is important that the diminutive lower pole not be mistaken for a renal mass, extrinsic tumor, renal infarction, or a postoperative change.", "contents": "Renal duplication with a diminutive lower pole: the Nubbin sign. Eight patients with a duplex kidney demonstrated severe attenuation of parenchyma in the lower pole. The radiographic appearance of a diminutive lower collecting system indicated the proper diagnosis when there was sufficient parenchyma for visualization. Parenchymal attenuation may represent either hypoplasia or inflammatory atrophy. Whichever the cause, it is important that the diminutive lower pole not be mistaken for a renal mass, extrinsic tumor, renal infarction, or a postoperative change.", "PMID": 441313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5140", "title": "Arthrotomography of the glenoid labrum.", "content": "Arthrotomography was used to study the glenoid labrum in 8 patients with problems of shoulder instability. In 4 patients, an anterior lesion of the labrum was noted radiographically. The abnormality was confirmed at surgery in 3 of the 4. In 1 of the 3, anterior capsular detachment was also demonstrated radiographically and confirmed surgically. One patient had voluntary posterior subluxation: radiographically, the labrum was normal, and at surgery no abnormalities could be found. The technique, which is simple to perform is described and radiographic anatomy discussed.", "contents": "Arthrotomography of the glenoid labrum. Arthrotomography was used to study the glenoid labrum in 8 patients with problems of shoulder instability. In 4 patients, an anterior lesion of the labrum was noted radiographically. The abnormality was confirmed at surgery in 3 of the 4. In 1 of the 3, anterior capsular detachment was also demonstrated radiographically and confirmed surgically. One patient had voluntary posterior subluxation: radiographically, the labrum was normal, and at surgery no abnormalities could be found. The technique, which is simple to perform is described and radiographic anatomy discussed.", "PMID": 441314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5141", "title": "Differential diagnosis of brown tumor vs. cystic osteitis by arteriography and computed tomography.", "content": "An expansile lytic lesion of bone can be either a brown tumor or a cyst when the patient has hyperparathyroidism. If weight-bearing bones are involved, the diagnosis must be made prior to parathyroidectomy in order to avert a possible pathological fracture. In the authors' patient, arteriography and computed tomography both demonstrated that the lesion in question was a brown tumor, which is hypervascular and clearly separable from a fluid-filled cyst; however, CT has the advantage of being a noninvasive procedure.", "contents": "Differential diagnosis of brown tumor vs. cystic osteitis by arteriography and computed tomography. An expansile lytic lesion of bone can be either a brown tumor or a cyst when the patient has hyperparathyroidism. If weight-bearing bones are involved, the diagnosis must be made prior to parathyroidectomy in order to avert a possible pathological fracture. In the authors' patient, arteriography and computed tomography both demonstrated that the lesion in question was a brown tumor, which is hypervascular and clearly separable from a fluid-filled cyst; however, CT has the advantage of being a noninvasive procedure.", "PMID": 441315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5142", "title": "Thermographic diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis.", "content": "Two hundred patients with suspected deep venous thrombosis had thermography performed prior to ascending phlebography. Diagnostic agreement was obtained in 79%. Published diagnostic thermographic criteria were used; it was not possible to diagnose consistently limited or early thrombosis, especially in the calf muscle veins. Venous insufficiency produced the majority of false positives.", "contents": "Thermographic diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis. Two hundred patients with suspected deep venous thrombosis had thermography performed prior to ascending phlebography. Diagnostic agreement was obtained in 79%. Published diagnostic thermographic criteria were used; it was not possible to diagnose consistently limited or early thrombosis, especially in the calf muscle veins. Venous insufficiency produced the majority of false positives.", "PMID": 441316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5143", "title": "The radiographic signs of fatty liver.", "content": "Ninteen cases of radiographically visible fatty liver are presented. The four radiographic signs are muscle-fat interface, fat-water interface, a visible hollow viscus wall, and blurring of the medial margin of the right properitoneal fat stripe. The last sign, the authors believe, is the earliest radiographic change in developing fatty liver. In one case, isolated glycogen synthetase deficiency was the cause of fatty liver; this finding, to the authors' knowledge, has not previously been described. The value of the chest radiograph in diagnosing fatty liver is stressed.", "contents": "The radiographic signs of fatty liver. Ninteen cases of radiographically visible fatty liver are presented. The four radiographic signs are muscle-fat interface, fat-water interface, a visible hollow viscus wall, and blurring of the medial margin of the right properitoneal fat stripe. The last sign, the authors believe, is the earliest radiographic change in developing fatty liver. In one case, isolated glycogen synthetase deficiency was the cause of fatty liver; this finding, to the authors' knowledge, has not previously been described. The value of the chest radiograph in diagnosing fatty liver is stressed.", "PMID": 441317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5144", "title": "Simple serous cysts of the kidney in children.", "content": "Simple renal cysts and reported in 9 children. Two children presented with hematuria following trauma and the cyst was demonstrated on the initial excretory urogram. The other 7 had cysts found on excretory urograms in be course of evaluation of various urologic complaints. The diagnostic approach used was identical to that advocated for adults, namely, percutaneous needle puncture once a solid renal mass has been excluded by an appropriate screening procedure such as ultrasonography. These cysts are benign lesions similar to cysts in adults and are probably more common than the few reported cases would suggest.", "contents": "Simple serous cysts of the kidney in children. Simple renal cysts and reported in 9 children. Two children presented with hematuria following trauma and the cyst was demonstrated on the initial excretory urogram. The other 7 had cysts found on excretory urograms in be course of evaluation of various urologic complaints. The diagnostic approach used was identical to that advocated for adults, namely, percutaneous needle puncture once a solid renal mass has been excluded by an appropriate screening procedure such as ultrasonography. These cysts are benign lesions similar to cysts in adults and are probably more common than the few reported cases would suggest.", "PMID": 441318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5145", "title": "Mastocytosis with skeletal and gastrointestinal involvement in infancy. Two case reports and a review of the literature.", "content": "Two cases of mastocytosis with skeletal involvement in children three and six months old are reported. Bone lesions, either sclerotic or lytic, were encountered in their skeletal surveys. Gastrointestinal lesions in children with mastocytosis are exceedingly rare; in addition to skeletal lesions, one of our patients had a large duodenal ulcer. The diagnosis of mastocytosis was established by skin biopsy in both patients. A review of the literature is also presented.", "contents": "Mastocytosis with skeletal and gastrointestinal involvement in infancy. Two case reports and a review of the literature. Two cases of mastocytosis with skeletal involvement in children three and six months old are reported. Bone lesions, either sclerotic or lytic, were encountered in their skeletal surveys. Gastrointestinal lesions in children with mastocytosis are exceedingly rare; in addition to skeletal lesions, one of our patients had a large duodenal ulcer. The diagnosis of mastocytosis was established by skin biopsy in both patients. A review of the literature is also presented.", "PMID": 441319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5146", "title": "Exaggerated anterior vertebral notching.", "content": "Three children with marrow-packing disorders demonstrated exaggerated anterior vertebral notches with poorly defined cortical margins. One child had thalassemia major, another had Gaucher disease, and a third had metastatic neuroblastoma. A discussion of each case and the etiology of the notches is presented.", "contents": "Exaggerated anterior vertebral notching. Three children with marrow-packing disorders demonstrated exaggerated anterior vertebral notches with poorly defined cortical margins. One child had thalassemia major, another had Gaucher disease, and a third had metastatic neuroblastoma. A discussion of each case and the etiology of the notches is presented.", "PMID": 441320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5147", "title": "Pseudohyperphalangism in fetal Dilantin syndrome.", "content": "Apparent distal hyperphalangism was observed in three siblings with fetal Dilantin syndrome. Other stigmata of this syndrome were also present. The anomaly in these patients was cuased by division of an otherwise normal phalanx, as opposed to the case in true hyperphalangism.", "contents": "Pseudohyperphalangism in fetal Dilantin syndrome. Apparent distal hyperphalangism was observed in three siblings with fetal Dilantin syndrome. Other stigmata of this syndrome were also present. The anomaly in these patients was cuased by division of an otherwise normal phalanx, as opposed to the case in true hyperphalangism.", "PMID": 441322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5148", "title": "Expanded high iodine dose in computed cranial tomography: a preliminary report.", "content": "Fifty patients undergoing cranial CT had expanded-high-iodine-dose (EHID) scans. The EHID was given either as an additional bolus dose (37--40 g iodine) after a routine infusion contrast scan (42.3 g), or as a continuous infusion (total 74--80 g). Diseases presented include primary and metastatic neoplasm, pituitary neoplasm, and demyelinating disease. The results suggest that the primary usefulness of the EHID is in (a) detecting multiple rather than solitary brain lesions, (b) the definitive demonstration of an equivocal area of abnormal enhancement, and (c) differentiating solid histologically microcystic from frankly macrocystic neoplasms.", "contents": "Expanded high iodine dose in computed cranial tomography: a preliminary report. Fifty patients undergoing cranial CT had expanded-high-iodine-dose (EHID) scans. The EHID was given either as an additional bolus dose (37--40 g iodine) after a routine infusion contrast scan (42.3 g), or as a continuous infusion (total 74--80 g). Diseases presented include primary and metastatic neoplasm, pituitary neoplasm, and demyelinating disease. The results suggest that the primary usefulness of the EHID is in (a) detecting multiple rather than solitary brain lesions, (b) the definitive demonstration of an equivocal area of abnormal enhancement, and (c) differentiating solid histologically microcystic from frankly macrocystic neoplasms.", "PMID": 441323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5149", "title": "Rapid-high-dose contrast computed tomography of isodense subdural hematoma and cerebral swelling.", "content": "Ten patients were studied in whom precontrast computed tomography (CT) revealed an isodense mass which obliterated cerebral sulci and deformed the ventricle(s). Upon rapid-high-dose (RHD) contrast enhancement, the cerebral hemispheric surface was so well demonstrated, that in 4 patients the possibility of an isodense subdural hematoma was exluded, while in the other 6 it was correctly diagnosed. Preoperative angiography was not necessary.", "contents": "Rapid-high-dose contrast computed tomography of isodense subdural hematoma and cerebral swelling. Ten patients were studied in whom precontrast computed tomography (CT) revealed an isodense mass which obliterated cerebral sulci and deformed the ventricle(s). Upon rapid-high-dose (RHD) contrast enhancement, the cerebral hemispheric surface was so well demonstrated, that in 4 patients the possibility of an isodense subdural hematoma was exluded, while in the other 6 it was correctly diagnosed. Preoperative angiography was not necessary.", "PMID": 441324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5150", "title": "Computed tomography of the enlarged cisterna magna.", "content": "The unusual appearance of the large cisterna magna on computed tomography is presented and the radiographic signs are reviewed and correlated. This entity may be confused with a variety of other lesions. Awareness of such developmental anomalies may obviate the need for angiography and pneumoencephalography in selected cases.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the enlarged cisterna magna. The unusual appearance of the large cisterna magna on computed tomography is presented and the radiographic signs are reviewed and correlated. This entity may be confused with a variety of other lesions. Awareness of such developmental anomalies may obviate the need for angiography and pneumoencephalography in selected cases.", "PMID": 441325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5151", "title": "Sensitivity of computed tomography and serial scintigraphy in cerebrovascular disease.", "content": "Computed tomography and serial scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate (radionuclide angiography and early and late static imaging) were compared in 214 patients with cerebrovascular disease. CT correctly identified 151 (95.0%) of 159 patients with completed ischemic stroke but was positive in only 11 (25%) of 44 patients with asymptomatic stenosis, transient ischemic attacks (TIA), or prolonged reversible ischemic neurological deficit (PRIND). Scintigraphy was positive in 93.1% of patients with completed stroke. CT detected 175 territories of vascular supply involved, scintigraphy 164. In patients with asymptomatic stenosis, TIA, or PRIND, scintigraphy was correct in 77.3% of cases. The combined evaluation offered a sensitivity of 97.5% in patients with completed stroke and 86.4% in those with asymptomatic stenosis, TIA, or PRIND. The rate of true-positive scintigraphic findings in patients with completed stroke did not change as the interval between ictus and study increased. In patients with intracerebral hematoma, CT was far more specific than scintigraphy. If cerebrovascular disease is suspected, radionuclide angiography should be performed first.", "contents": "Sensitivity of computed tomography and serial scintigraphy in cerebrovascular disease. Computed tomography and serial scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate (radionuclide angiography and early and late static imaging) were compared in 214 patients with cerebrovascular disease. CT correctly identified 151 (95.0%) of 159 patients with completed ischemic stroke but was positive in only 11 (25%) of 44 patients with asymptomatic stenosis, transient ischemic attacks (TIA), or prolonged reversible ischemic neurological deficit (PRIND). Scintigraphy was positive in 93.1% of patients with completed stroke. CT detected 175 territories of vascular supply involved, scintigraphy 164. In patients with asymptomatic stenosis, TIA, or PRIND, scintigraphy was correct in 77.3% of cases. The combined evaluation offered a sensitivity of 97.5% in patients with completed stroke and 86.4% in those with asymptomatic stenosis, TIA, or PRIND. The rate of true-positive scintigraphic findings in patients with completed stroke did not change as the interval between ictus and study increased. In patients with intracerebral hematoma, CT was far more specific than scintigraphy. If cerebrovascular disease is suspected, radionuclide angiography should be performed first.", "PMID": 441326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5152", "title": "The value of routine cranial computed tomography in neurologically intact patients with primary carcinoma of the lung.", "content": "The most common cerebral metastatic lesion is from carcinoma of the lung. Preoperative cranial computed tomography (CCT) with contrast enhancement was performed in 55 neurologically intact patients with a diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma; 3 patients (5%) demonstrated cerebral metastasis. CCT could spare a significant number of such patients from unnecessary surgery, with a net saving substantially greater than its cost.", "contents": "The value of routine cranial computed tomography in neurologically intact patients with primary carcinoma of the lung. The most common cerebral metastatic lesion is from carcinoma of the lung. Preoperative cranial computed tomography (CCT) with contrast enhancement was performed in 55 neurologically intact patients with a diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma; 3 patients (5%) demonstrated cerebral metastasis. CCT could spare a significant number of such patients from unnecessary surgery, with a net saving substantially greater than its cost.", "PMID": 441327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5153", "title": "Computed tomography in Beh\u00e7et disease.", "content": "In Beh\u00e7et disease, CT may demonstrate low attenuation mass lesions with or without contrast enhancement. Since neurologic involvement may precede the typical dermatologic manifestations, Beh\u00e7et disease should be included in the differential diagnosis of intracranial mass lesions. A case is presented with central nervous system involvement.", "contents": "Computed tomography in Beh\u00e7et disease. In Beh\u00e7et disease, CT may demonstrate low attenuation mass lesions with or without contrast enhancement. Since neurologic involvement may precede the typical dermatologic manifestations, Beh\u00e7et disease should be included in the differential diagnosis of intracranial mass lesions. A case is presented with central nervous system involvement.", "PMID": 441328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5154", "title": "Computed tomographic metrizamide myelography in syringohydromyelia.", "content": "Four patients with surgically verified syringohydromyelia, including 2 with and 2 without a collapsing cord, were examined with computed tomographic metrizamide myelography (CTMM). When the cord is collapsed, or a contrast-containing cyst is observed on the scan, no further examination is necessary. If the cord is not collapsed, it is difficult to differentiate an intramedullary cyst from a tumor. Flattening of the ventral border of the cord in the supine position, coupled with an increased transverse diameter and alteration of the normally smooth, oval shape are suggestive of syringohydromyelia.", "contents": "Computed tomographic metrizamide myelography in syringohydromyelia. Four patients with surgically verified syringohydromyelia, including 2 with and 2 without a collapsing cord, were examined with computed tomographic metrizamide myelography (CTMM). When the cord is collapsed, or a contrast-containing cyst is observed on the scan, no further examination is necessary. If the cord is not collapsed, it is difficult to differentiate an intramedullary cyst from a tumor. Flattening of the ventral border of the cord in the supine position, coupled with an increased transverse diameter and alteration of the normally smooth, oval shape are suggestive of syringohydromyelia.", "PMID": 441329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5155", "title": "Symmetrical extracranial fenestrations of the vertebral artery. Two cases revealed by angiography.", "content": "Extracranial duplication of the vertebral artery was demonstrated angiographically on both sides in a patient with postmeningitis hydrocephalus and in another with hemangioblastoma. Forty-six cases of this anomaly are reviewed.", "contents": "Symmetrical extracranial fenestrations of the vertebral artery. Two cases revealed by angiography. Extracranial duplication of the vertebral artery was demonstrated angiographically on both sides in a patient with postmeningitis hydrocephalus and in another with hemangioblastoma. Forty-six cases of this anomaly are reviewed.", "PMID": 441330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5156", "title": "Lumbar epidural venography. Review of 1,200 cases.", "content": "A review of 1,200 lumbar epidural venograms demonstrated venography to be accurate in 98.5% of 595 patients operated on for lumbar disc herniations. Venography is particularly valuable in two situations: first, in extreme lateral disc herniations, which frequently cannot be demonstrated by myelography, and second, if the caudal sac ends more cephalad than usual or tapers sharply, a centrally herniated L5-S1 disc can be missed by myelography. The examination is done on an outpatient basis, causes negligible discomfort, and is essentially free of complications. The authors feel that venography is the examination of choice in the investigation of suspected disc herniation. If there is clinical suspicion of an intradural lesion, myelography should be performed first.", "contents": "Lumbar epidural venography. Review of 1,200 cases. A review of 1,200 lumbar epidural venograms demonstrated venography to be accurate in 98.5% of 595 patients operated on for lumbar disc herniations. Venography is particularly valuable in two situations: first, in extreme lateral disc herniations, which frequently cannot be demonstrated by myelography, and second, if the caudal sac ends more cephalad than usual or tapers sharply, a centrally herniated L5-S1 disc can be missed by myelography. The examination is done on an outpatient basis, causes negligible discomfort, and is essentially free of complications. The authors feel that venography is the examination of choice in the investigation of suspected disc herniation. If there is clinical suspicion of an intradural lesion, myelography should be performed first.", "PMID": 441331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5157", "title": "Epidural venography in the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis.", "content": "Epidural venography is valuable in diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis. It shows anterior displacement of the posterior medial longitudinal intervertebral veins at the level of the lamina and the superior and inferior articular facets. This results in decreased distance between and sometimes overlapping of the posterior and anterior medial longitudinal intervertebral veins. Three cases of spinal stenosis diagnosed by epidural venography are presented.", "contents": "Epidural venography in the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis. Epidural venography is valuable in diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis. It shows anterior displacement of the posterior medial longitudinal intervertebral veins at the level of the lamina and the superior and inferior articular facets. This results in decreased distance between and sometimes overlapping of the posterior and anterior medial longitudinal intervertebral veins. Three cases of spinal stenosis diagnosed by epidural venography are presented.", "PMID": 441332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5158", "title": "Computed tomography of focal hepatic lesions: a blind clinical evaluation of the effect of contrast enhancement.", "content": "Hepatic CT scans in 61 consecutive patients with proved liver metastasis performed both before and after administration of contrast medium were subjected to blind analysis by two observers. In 10 patients (16%) hepatic lesions were better defined before CE and focal hepatic lesions were diagnostically visible only before CE in 8 patients (13%). Lesions were better defined following CE in 16 patients (26%) but in only 2 cases (3%) were lesions diagnostically visible only after CE. The majority of lesions [35 (58%)] were equally well visualized before and after CE.", "contents": "Computed tomography of focal hepatic lesions: a blind clinical evaluation of the effect of contrast enhancement. Hepatic CT scans in 61 consecutive patients with proved liver metastasis performed both before and after administration of contrast medium were subjected to blind analysis by two observers. In 10 patients (16%) hepatic lesions were better defined before CE and focal hepatic lesions were diagnostically visible only before CE in 8 patients (13%). Lesions were better defined following CE in 16 patients (26%) but in only 2 cases (3%) were lesions diagnostically visible only after CE. The majority of lesions [35 (58%)] were equally well visualized before and after CE.", "PMID": 441333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5159", "title": "Comparison of computed tomography and other imaging modalities in the evaluation of musculoskeletal tumors.", "content": "An algorithmic approach for the evaluation of musculoskeletal tumors is proposed on the basis of a prospective comparison of different imaging techniques in 50 unselected patients. Conventional radiography was superior to other techniques in predicting the nature of primary bone tumors. Computed tomography proved the most effective method for assessing the extent of musculoskeletal tumors and therefore had a significant influence on management in 66% of patients studied. CT was more informative than angiography and also provided more anatomical detail than ultrasound. Radionuclide scanning was mainly of value in detecting unsuspected skeletal metastases in patients with apparently solitary skeletal lesions.", "contents": "Comparison of computed tomography and other imaging modalities in the evaluation of musculoskeletal tumors. An algorithmic approach for the evaluation of musculoskeletal tumors is proposed on the basis of a prospective comparison of different imaging techniques in 50 unselected patients. Conventional radiography was superior to other techniques in predicting the nature of primary bone tumors. Computed tomography proved the most effective method for assessing the extent of musculoskeletal tumors and therefore had a significant influence on management in 66% of patients studied. CT was more informative than angiography and also provided more anatomical detail than ultrasound. Radionuclide scanning was mainly of value in detecting unsuspected skeletal metastases in patients with apparently solitary skeletal lesions.", "PMID": 441334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5160", "title": "The sonographic diagnosis of neonatal adrenal hemorrhage.", "content": "Neonatal adrenal hemorrhage can be diagnosed with a combination of ultrasound and excretory urography without resorting to surgical exploration or invasive diagnostic procedures. The radiologic findings of adrenal hemorrhage on excretory urography include downward displacement of the kidney on the affected side and a radiolucent suprarenal mass on the body nephrogram phase. Ultrasound studies reveal a sonolucent suprarenal mass. Four cases of varying degrees of adrenal hemorrhage are presented together with the radiographic and sonographic findings.", "contents": "The sonographic diagnosis of neonatal adrenal hemorrhage. Neonatal adrenal hemorrhage can be diagnosed with a combination of ultrasound and excretory urography without resorting to surgical exploration or invasive diagnostic procedures. The radiologic findings of adrenal hemorrhage on excretory urography include downward displacement of the kidney on the affected side and a radiolucent suprarenal mass on the body nephrogram phase. Ultrasound studies reveal a sonolucent suprarenal mass. Four cases of varying degrees of adrenal hemorrhage are presented together with the radiographic and sonographic findings.", "PMID": 441335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5161", "title": "Lack of an acoustic shadow on scans of gallstones: a possible artifact.", "content": "The high attenuation of gallstones results in the formation of an acoustic shadow on the ultrasound scan. Such shadows are best seen when the stone lies within the focal zone of the transducer and is large in comparison to the beam width or wavelength employed. Inadequecies in the dynamic range of available TV display units necessitate the use of compression-amplification signal processing which may preclude perception of such a shadow and seriously interfere with diagnostic accuracy.", "contents": "Lack of an acoustic shadow on scans of gallstones: a possible artifact. The high attenuation of gallstones results in the formation of an acoustic shadow on the ultrasound scan. Such shadows are best seen when the stone lies within the focal zone of the transducer and is large in comparison to the beam width or wavelength employed. Inadequecies in the dynamic range of available TV display units necessitate the use of compression-amplification signal processing which may preclude perception of such a shadow and seriously interfere with diagnostic accuracy.", "PMID": 441336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5162", "title": "Placenta praevia: significance in the second trimester.", "content": "A prospective study was performed on 98 patients to determine the risk of a second trimester placenta praevia remaining until term. The presence and degree of anterior or posterior praevia were scored for each patient. Follow-up data were obtained at delivery on 58 patients. A greater fraction (63.8%) of second trimester praevia was implanted posteriorly. The overall incidence of a second trimester praevia persisting until term was 8.8%.", "contents": "Placenta praevia: significance in the second trimester. A prospective study was performed on 98 patients to determine the risk of a second trimester placenta praevia remaining until term. The presence and degree of anterior or posterior praevia were scored for each patient. Follow-up data were obtained at delivery on 58 patients. A greater fraction (63.8%) of second trimester praevia was implanted posteriorly. The overall incidence of a second trimester praevia persisting until term was 8.8%.", "PMID": 441337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5163", "title": "The clinical impact of ultrasonic beam focusing patterns.", "content": "Previous clinical ultrasound investigations have been adversely affected by inadequate knowledge of the focusing characteristics of the transducer. Precise knowledge of the beam width profile has substantial impact on routine diagnostic procedures and is essential for proper display of the anechoic nature of small cysts, tissue textures, and particularly the distal shadow which characterizes gallstones. In vitro and in vivo tests using transducers with various beam focusing profiles clearly demonstrate that optimal imaging performance occurs within a very narrow range at a critical distance from the transducer face.", "contents": "The clinical impact of ultrasonic beam focusing patterns. Previous clinical ultrasound investigations have been adversely affected by inadequate knowledge of the focusing characteristics of the transducer. Precise knowledge of the beam width profile has substantial impact on routine diagnostic procedures and is essential for proper display of the anechoic nature of small cysts, tissue textures, and particularly the distal shadow which characterizes gallstones. In vitro and in vivo tests using transducers with various beam focusing profiles clearly demonstrate that optimal imaging performance occurs within a very narrow range at a critical distance from the transducer face.", "PMID": 441338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5164", "title": "R-wave synchronized blood-pool imaging.", "content": "Three methods for determining the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) from R-wave synchronized blood-pool images were compared to contrast angiography; the reproducibility of these methods was established in 51 patients. The EF was systematically underestimated by the fixed region-of-interest (ROI) method compared to the two methods that used varying ROI's which track the left ventricular boundary. All methods correlated reasonably well with angiography and were highly reproducible. Use of varying ROI's resulted in EF values that were essentially identical to those determined by angiography. Resolution-recovery image processing appeared to improve reproducibility when varying ROI's were used.", "contents": "R-wave synchronized blood-pool imaging. Three methods for determining the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) from R-wave synchronized blood-pool images were compared to contrast angiography; the reproducibility of these methods was established in 51 patients. The EF was systematically underestimated by the fixed region-of-interest (ROI) method compared to the two methods that used varying ROI's which track the left ventricular boundary. All methods correlated reasonably well with angiography and were highly reproducible. Use of varying ROI's resulted in EF values that were essentially identical to those determined by angiography. Resolution-recovery image processing appeared to improve reproducibility when varying ROI's were used.", "PMID": 441339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5165", "title": "Demonstration of gastroesophageal reflux in children by radionuclide gastroesophagography.", "content": "Twenty-five infants and children with proved gastroesophageal reflux were studied by radionuclide gastroesophagography to determine its sensitivity in detecting reflux. Patients swallowed an inert radiotracer (Tc-99m sulfur colloid) and gamma camera images of the stomach and esophagus were made with and without abdominal pressure. The test was easy to perform and was well tolerated. Reflux was demonstrated in 20 patients (80%); this compared favorably with barium gastroesophagography.", "contents": "Demonstration of gastroesophageal reflux in children by radionuclide gastroesophagography. Twenty-five infants and children with proved gastroesophageal reflux were studied by radionuclide gastroesophagography to determine its sensitivity in detecting reflux. Patients swallowed an inert radiotracer (Tc-99m sulfur colloid) and gamma camera images of the stomach and esophagus were made with and without abdominal pressure. The test was easy to perform and was well tolerated. Reflux was demonstrated in 20 patients (80%); this compared favorably with barium gastroesophagography.", "PMID": 441340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5166", "title": "Radionuclide skeletal survey in neuroblastoma.", "content": "Of 63 99mTc-phosphate bone images in 49 patients with neuroblastoma, 41 were abnormal, 17 showed tracer uptake within the primary tumor, 29 showed evidence of skeletal metastatic disease, and 17 demonstrated renal/urinary tract involvement. The metastases were asymmetric in 24 patients and symmetrical in 9, in whom they involved the metaphyses and epiphyses of the long bones. Except for one patient with multiple \"cold\" areas, all metastases were seen as focal hyperactive regions. Eleven of 42 skeletal radiographic surveys were abnormal. The radionuclide study appears to be more accurate than skeletal radiography in estimating bone involvement in neuroblastoma. Primary tumor concentration of the tracer is almost pathognomonic of neural crest neoplasms in childhood.", "contents": "Radionuclide skeletal survey in neuroblastoma. Of 63 99mTc-phosphate bone images in 49 patients with neuroblastoma, 41 were abnormal, 17 showed tracer uptake within the primary tumor, 29 showed evidence of skeletal metastatic disease, and 17 demonstrated renal/urinary tract involvement. The metastases were asymmetric in 24 patients and symmetrical in 9, in whom they involved the metaphyses and epiphyses of the long bones. Except for one patient with multiple \"cold\" areas, all metastases were seen as focal hyperactive regions. Eleven of 42 skeletal radiographic surveys were abnormal. The radionuclide study appears to be more accurate than skeletal radiography in estimating bone involvement in neuroblastoma. Primary tumor concentration of the tracer is almost pathognomonic of neural crest neoplasms in childhood.", "PMID": 441341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5167", "title": "Comparison of dosimetry and image quality in computed and conventional tomography.", "content": "Comparison was made of tomograms of a phantom head and a normal adult cadaver head on GE CT/T, Delta 50, EMI 5005, and CGR Stratomatic units. Image quality was ranked as follows: First, GE CT/T 8800 system; second, EMI; third, GE CT/T 7800 and Delta. The GE CT/T 7800 imaged 3.7 line pairs at high contrast with an exposure to the head phantom of 2.5 R (6.5 X 10(-4) C kg-1). The EMI exposure level was 5 R (13 X 10(-4) C kg-1) in the fast mode and 12 R (31 X 10(-4) C kg-1) in the slow mode, while the Delta 50 exposure level was fixed at 2 R (5.2 X 10(-4) C kg-1). The GE CT/T 8800 could image 6.1 line pairs/cm in a high-contrast phantom with exposures as low as 100 mR (25.8 muC/kg) but a typical operating exposure would be about 1--2 R (2.58 -5.2 X 10 (-4) C kg-1). Dosimetry ranged from 1.1 to 5.5 R/scan section (2.8--14.2 x 10(-4) C kg-1) in the CT units but never increased by a factor of more than 2, irrespective of the number of sections scanned. In conventional tomography, however, exposure increased almost arithmetically with the number of contiguous sections scanned.", "contents": "Comparison of dosimetry and image quality in computed and conventional tomography. Comparison was made of tomograms of a phantom head and a normal adult cadaver head on GE CT/T, Delta 50, EMI 5005, and CGR Stratomatic units. Image quality was ranked as follows: First, GE CT/T 8800 system; second, EMI; third, GE CT/T 7800 and Delta. The GE CT/T 7800 imaged 3.7 line pairs at high contrast with an exposure to the head phantom of 2.5 R (6.5 X 10(-4) C kg-1). The EMI exposure level was 5 R (13 X 10(-4) C kg-1) in the fast mode and 12 R (31 X 10(-4) C kg-1) in the slow mode, while the Delta 50 exposure level was fixed at 2 R (5.2 X 10(-4) C kg-1). The GE CT/T 8800 could image 6.1 line pairs/cm in a high-contrast phantom with exposures as low as 100 mR (25.8 muC/kg) but a typical operating exposure would be about 1--2 R (2.58 -5.2 X 10 (-4) C kg-1). Dosimetry ranged from 1.1 to 5.5 R/scan section (2.8--14.2 x 10(-4) C kg-1) in the CT units but never increased by a factor of more than 2, irrespective of the number of sections scanned. In conventional tomography, however, exposure increased almost arithmetically with the number of contiguous sections scanned.", "PMID": 441342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5168", "title": "Differential effect of procaine on irradiated mammalian cells in culture.", "content": "HeLa and V-79 Chinese hamster cells temporarily stored in ampoules were treated with the local anesthetic procaine. Postirradiation treatment increased lethality in HeLa cells depending on drug concentration, duration of treatment and cell density, as measured by colony-forming ability upon plating. If present during irradiation only, procaine protected from irradiation. In V-79 cells procaine potentiated radiation lethality only in freshly trypsinized cells. Procaine effect was thus cell type specific and most likely involved the cell membrane.", "contents": "Differential effect of procaine on irradiated mammalian cells in culture. HeLa and V-79 Chinese hamster cells temporarily stored in ampoules were treated with the local anesthetic procaine. Postirradiation treatment increased lethality in HeLa cells depending on drug concentration, duration of treatment and cell density, as measured by colony-forming ability upon plating. If present during irradiation only, procaine protected from irradiation. In V-79 cells procaine potentiated radiation lethality only in freshly trypsinized cells. Procaine effect was thus cell type specific and most likely involved the cell membrane.", "PMID": 441343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5169", "title": "Tissue signatures with dual-energy computed tomography.", "content": "By providing information on two parameters, dual-energy computed tomography can offer clinically useful tissue signatures for metallic deposits (Ca) or injected iodine, as well as for different normal and abnormal types of brain parenchymal tissues and CSF. Cerebral CT was performed on 36 patients and tissue differences analyzed using Hounsfield notation.", "contents": "Tissue signatures with dual-energy computed tomography. By providing information on two parameters, dual-energy computed tomography can offer clinically useful tissue signatures for metallic deposits (Ca) or injected iodine, as well as for different normal and abnormal types of brain parenchymal tissues and CSF. Cerebral CT was performed on 36 patients and tissue differences analyzed using Hounsfield notation.", "PMID": 441344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5170", "title": "After-loading transperineal iridium-192 wire implantation of the prostate.", "content": "Aided by suprapubic surgical access, after-loading transperineal iridium-192 wire implantations have been done for prostatic cancer in 16 patients, with major complications in 3. Personnel exposure is reduced, and, more especially, precision and flexibility of dose control and source geometry are improved. The technique is thought to render permanent implantation with grains or seeds obsolete.", "contents": "After-loading transperineal iridium-192 wire implantation of the prostate. Aided by suprapubic surgical access, after-loading transperineal iridium-192 wire implantations have been done for prostatic cancer in 16 patients, with major complications in 3. Personnel exposure is reduced, and, more especially, precision and flexibility of dose control and source geometry are improved. The technique is thought to render permanent implantation with grains or seeds obsolete.", "PMID": 441345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5171", "title": "A semi-upright portable venographic table.", "content": "A 45 degrees semi-upright venographic table which incorporates superimposed variable-ratio water grids and variable speed screens in long cassettes for leg phlebographic recording is described. It is constructed from used x-ray table top material placed on a standard equipment moving truck, for convenient use and easy upright storage.", "contents": "A semi-upright portable venographic table. A 45 degrees semi-upright venographic table which incorporates superimposed variable-ratio water grids and variable speed screens in long cassettes for leg phlebographic recording is described. It is constructed from used x-ray table top material placed on a standard equipment moving truck, for convenient use and easy upright storage.", "PMID": 441346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5172", "title": "The use of a CT scan computer for non-CT applications: teaching file program.", "content": "The utility of CT scanners may be further increased by using the computer contained in such scanners for non-CT purposes-the creation of a teaching file in this case. No knowledge of computer programming is assumed on the part of the operator. Directions are given in accessing the computer as well as in programming.", "contents": "The use of a CT scan computer for non-CT applications: teaching file program. The utility of CT scanners may be further increased by using the computer contained in such scanners for non-CT purposes-the creation of a teaching file in this case. No knowledge of computer programming is assumed on the part of the operator. Directions are given in accessing the computer as well as in programming.", "PMID": 441347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5173", "title": "An electronic digital display system to record contrast medium injection rates on angiographic film.", "content": "The authors describe an electronic numerical digital display system which utilizes light emitting diodes to record contrast medium injection rates on serial angiographic film. The display system is conveniently mounted within the film changer. It was developed to record injection rates during an increasing rate of injection employed in the radiographic \"spillover\" technique or estimating blood flow.", "contents": "An electronic digital display system to record contrast medium injection rates on angiographic film. The authors describe an electronic numerical digital display system which utilizes light emitting diodes to record contrast medium injection rates on serial angiographic film. The display system is conveniently mounted within the film changer. It was developed to record injection rates during an increasing rate of injection employed in the radiographic \"spillover\" technique or estimating blood flow.", "PMID": 441348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5174", "title": "A new needle for pre-operative localization of nonpalpable breast lesions.", "content": "A new needle for pre-operative localization of nonpalpable breast lesions is described. Its major advantage is that it can be sutured to the skin to prevent dislodgement.", "contents": "A new needle for pre-operative localization of nonpalpable breast lesions. A new needle for pre-operative localization of nonpalpable breast lesions is described. Its major advantage is that it can be sutured to the skin to prevent dislodgement.", "PMID": 441349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5175", "title": "A simplified method for intracavitary radiation for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma.", "content": "A simplified method for constructing a custom-made mold to hold radium for intracavitary radiation therapy of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma was developed. The technique for fabrication and insertion of the mold in a single operative procedure is described. Computer dose distributions were obtained and the applications were well tolerated by the patients.", "contents": "A simplified method for intracavitary radiation for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A simplified method for constructing a custom-made mold to hold radium for intracavitary radiation therapy of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma was developed. The technique for fabrication and insertion of the mold in a single operative procedure is described. Computer dose distributions were obtained and the applications were well tolerated by the patients.", "PMID": 441350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5176", "title": "A nomogram for time-dose-fractionation factors.", "content": "Time-Dose-Fractionation (TDF) factors have been defined mathematically and listed in table form. A rapid reference, single-page nomogram representation of these factors is presented here.", "contents": "A nomogram for time-dose-fractionation factors. Time-Dose-Fractionation (TDF) factors have been defined mathematically and listed in table form. A rapid reference, single-page nomogram representation of these factors is presented here.", "PMID": 441351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5177", "title": "A modified technique for percutaneous insertion of biliary T-tube.", "content": "Following percutaneous removal of retained biliary calculi through a t-tube tract, a tube should be reinserted over a guide wire. Reinsertion usually is easy; however, if buckling occurs, a coaxial system consisting of a t-tube over a teflon dilator will give added stiffness, and the t-tube will advance easily into the common bile duct.", "contents": "A modified technique for percutaneous insertion of biliary T-tube. Following percutaneous removal of retained biliary calculi through a t-tube tract, a tube should be reinserted over a guide wire. Reinsertion usually is easy; however, if buckling occurs, a coaxial system consisting of a t-tube over a teflon dilator will give added stiffness, and the t-tube will advance easily into the common bile duct.", "PMID": 441354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5178", "title": "Hysterosalpingography using a Foley catheter.", "content": "The authors describe a simple method of hysterosalpingography using a Foley catheter to inject contrast media. The technique allows the patient to assume a more comfortable position during the study. The radiologist can perform the examination without the need of a second physician to assist during spot filming and with no chance of metal artifacts obscuring anatomy.", "contents": "Hysterosalpingography using a Foley catheter. The authors describe a simple method of hysterosalpingography using a Foley catheter to inject contrast media. The technique allows the patient to assume a more comfortable position during the study. The radiologist can perform the examination without the need of a second physician to assist during spot filming and with no chance of metal artifacts obscuring anatomy.", "PMID": 441356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5179", "title": "Foley catheter hysterosalpingography: a simplified technique for investigating infertility.", "content": "A simplified technique for hysterosalpingography, based on over 5,000 studies, is described. This method is quickly and easily performed. Patient acceptance is high.", "contents": "Foley catheter hysterosalpingography: a simplified technique for investigating infertility. A simplified technique for hysterosalpingography, based on over 5,000 studies, is described. This method is quickly and easily performed. Patient acceptance is high.", "PMID": 441357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5180", "title": "Lymphography following leg amputation.", "content": "Bilateral lower-extremity lymphangiograms were obtained on 2 patients who previously had one leg amputated for unrelated indications. In both cases an underlying malignant tumor was present, and opacification of the lymph nodes draining the amputated limb was clinically important.", "contents": "Lymphography following leg amputation. Bilateral lower-extremity lymphangiograms were obtained on 2 patients who previously had one leg amputated for unrelated indications. In both cases an underlying malignant tumor was present, and opacification of the lymph nodes draining the amputated limb was clinically important.", "PMID": 441358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5181", "title": "Contrast-induced renal failure: a radiological problem and radiological diagnosis.", "content": "Renal failure induced by intravenous iodinated contrast media is a frequent medical problem. While such cases are generally reported first by the clinician, the phenomenon can be seen even earlier by the radiologist. An abnormally persistent nephrogram is a sign of abnormal clearance, which in turn should alert the physician to the likelihood of renal failure.", "contents": "Contrast-induced renal failure: a radiological problem and radiological diagnosis. Renal failure induced by intravenous iodinated contrast media is a frequent medical problem. While such cases are generally reported first by the clinician, the phenomenon can be seen even earlier by the radiologist. An abnormally persistent nephrogram is a sign of abnormal clearance, which in turn should alert the physician to the likelihood of renal failure.", "PMID": 441360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5182", "title": "Risk of breast cancer following low-dose radiation exposure.", "content": "Risk of breast cancer following radiation exposure was studied, based on surveys of tuberculosis patients who had multiple fluoroscopic examinations of the chest, mastitis patients given radiotherapy, and atomic bomb survivors. Analysis suggests that the risk is greatest for persons exposed as adolescents, although exposure at all ages carries some risk. The dose-response relationship was consistent with linearity in all studies. Direct evidence of radiation risk at doses under 0.5 Gy (50 rad) is apparent among A-bomb survivors. Fractionation does not appear to diminish risk, nor does time since exposure (even after 45 years of observation). The interval between exposure and the clinical appearance of radiogenic breast cancer may be mediated by hormonal or other age-related factors but is unrelated to dose. Age-specific absolute risk estimates for all studies are remarkably similar. The best estimate of risk among American women exposed after age 20 is 6.6 excess cancers/10(4) WY-G-Y (10(6) WY-rad).", "contents": "Risk of breast cancer following low-dose radiation exposure. Risk of breast cancer following radiation exposure was studied, based on surveys of tuberculosis patients who had multiple fluoroscopic examinations of the chest, mastitis patients given radiotherapy, and atomic bomb survivors. Analysis suggests that the risk is greatest for persons exposed as adolescents, although exposure at all ages carries some risk. The dose-response relationship was consistent with linearity in all studies. Direct evidence of radiation risk at doses under 0.5 Gy (50 rad) is apparent among A-bomb survivors. Fractionation does not appear to diminish risk, nor does time since exposure (even after 45 years of observation). The interval between exposure and the clinical appearance of radiogenic breast cancer may be mediated by hormonal or other age-related factors but is unrelated to dose. Age-specific absolute risk estimates for all studies are remarkably similar. The best estimate of risk among American women exposed after age 20 is 6.6 excess cancers/10(4) WY-G-Y (10(6) WY-rad).", "PMID": 441361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5183", "title": "Microfocal spot magnification mammography using xeroradiographic and screen-film recording systems.", "content": "Direct radiographic magnification (1.5X) of the breast, using a microfocal spot x-ray tube and either a xeroradiographic or screen-film recording system, produces images superior in quality (improved resolution, reduced noise) to conventional contact mammograms. Six hundred twenty-one patients had a single magnification mammogram in addition to conventional mammography; 216 subsequently underwent biopsy within one month of study. The additional magnification mammogram increased the diagnostic accuracy of the conventional examination in 40% of the pathologically proved cases, particularly among those for which conventional mammograms were interpreted as equivocal for malignancy. The superior image quality of magnification mammograms appears useful in distinguishing malignant from benign breast disease.", "contents": "Microfocal spot magnification mammography using xeroradiographic and screen-film recording systems. Direct radiographic magnification (1.5X) of the breast, using a microfocal spot x-ray tube and either a xeroradiographic or screen-film recording system, produces images superior in quality (improved resolution, reduced noise) to conventional contact mammograms. Six hundred twenty-one patients had a single magnification mammogram in addition to conventional mammography; 216 subsequently underwent biopsy within one month of study. The additional magnification mammogram increased the diagnostic accuracy of the conventional examination in 40% of the pathologically proved cases, particularly among those for which conventional mammograms were interpreted as equivocal for malignancy. The superior image quality of magnification mammograms appears useful in distinguishing malignant from benign breast disease.", "PMID": 441362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5184", "title": "The angiographic appearance of the coronary arteries in constrictive pericarditis.", "content": "Coronary artery motion was evaluated in normal subjects and patients with constrictive pericarditis (CP), congestive cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy, and coronary artery disease. Seven of the 8 patients with CP had lack of motion of the major coronary arteries. Nine of the 10 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy and a markedly reduced ejection fraction showed normal motion, as did all 4 with restrictive cardiomyopathy and 9 of the 10 with segmental dysfunction due to coronary disease. Pericardial stripping in 5 patients with CP revealed epicardial involvement corresponding to regions of absent motion; one CP patient with normal motion had no epicardial involvement. Lack of motion may suggest CP when the diagnosis is unsuspected, right heart pressures are not obtained, or hemodynamics are atypical. This sign may also help to distinguish CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy, which produces similar hemodynamics.", "contents": "The angiographic appearance of the coronary arteries in constrictive pericarditis. Coronary artery motion was evaluated in normal subjects and patients with constrictive pericarditis (CP), congestive cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy, and coronary artery disease. Seven of the 8 patients with CP had lack of motion of the major coronary arteries. Nine of the 10 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy and a markedly reduced ejection fraction showed normal motion, as did all 4 with restrictive cardiomyopathy and 9 of the 10 with segmental dysfunction due to coronary disease. Pericardial stripping in 5 patients with CP revealed epicardial involvement corresponding to regions of absent motion; one CP patient with normal motion had no epicardial involvement. Lack of motion may suggest CP when the diagnosis is unsuspected, right heart pressures are not obtained, or hemodynamics are atypical. This sign may also help to distinguish CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy, which produces similar hemodynamics.", "PMID": 441363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5185", "title": "Embolotherapy with detachable silicone balloons: technique and clinical results.", "content": "Catheter techniques and early clinical results of therapeutic embolization with detachable silicone rubber balloons are described in 13 patients. Effective control of post-traumatic or spontaneously occurring hemorrhage or preoperative devascularization of neoplasms was achieved in 10 patients. Three additional patients, one each with pelvic arteriovenous malformation. pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, and hemangioendothelioma of the liver, were partially treated by balloon occulsion. Therapeutic embolization with detachable silicone balloons provides a method of long-term, extremely selective arterial occlusion with reduced risks from inadvertent embolization of neighboring circulations.", "contents": "Embolotherapy with detachable silicone balloons: technique and clinical results. Catheter techniques and early clinical results of therapeutic embolization with detachable silicone rubber balloons are described in 13 patients. Effective control of post-traumatic or spontaneously occurring hemorrhage or preoperative devascularization of neoplasms was achieved in 10 patients. Three additional patients, one each with pelvic arteriovenous malformation. pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, and hemangioendothelioma of the liver, were partially treated by balloon occulsion. Therapeutic embolization with detachable silicone balloons provides a method of long-term, extremely selective arterial occlusion with reduced risks from inadvertent embolization of neighboring circulations.", "PMID": 441364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5186", "title": "The serratus anterior muscle on chest radiographs.", "content": "The radiographic appearance of the serratus anterior muscle shadow is analyzed. In frontal and near-frontal views, it produces a \"bowling-pin\" silhouette. When the muscle is well developed, the medial edge of this silhouette may be superimposed upon the air shadow of the lung in a variety of ways. When it overlies the apex of the lung, it gives rise to the companion shadow; when overlying the midlateral lung edge and costophrenic angle it may mimic pleural and/or extrapleural disease. Recognition of the various possible patterns is important to prevent overdiagnosis of disease, particularly asbestosis.", "contents": "The serratus anterior muscle on chest radiographs. The radiographic appearance of the serratus anterior muscle shadow is analyzed. In frontal and near-frontal views, it produces a \"bowling-pin\" silhouette. When the muscle is well developed, the medial edge of this silhouette may be superimposed upon the air shadow of the lung in a variety of ways. When it overlies the apex of the lung, it gives rise to the companion shadow; when overlying the midlateral lung edge and costophrenic angle it may mimic pleural and/or extrapleural disease. Recognition of the various possible patterns is important to prevent overdiagnosis of disease, particularly asbestosis.", "PMID": 441365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5187", "title": "Sarcoidosis of the larynx.", "content": "Sarcoid involvement of the larynx is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of systemic sarcoidosis. A classic, clinical, radiologic, and pathologic case is presented.", "contents": "Sarcoidosis of the larynx. Sarcoid involvement of the larynx is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of systemic sarcoidosis. A classic, clinical, radiologic, and pathologic case is presented.", "PMID": 441366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5188", "title": "Acute bowing fracture of the fibula in an adult.", "content": "Acute traumatic bowing of bone has only recently been recognized. Although most of these unusual fractures have been described in the pediatric forearm, bowing fractures of other juvenile long bones have also been reported. The authors describe a case of an acute bowing fracture of the fibula in a young adult.", "contents": "Acute bowing fracture of the fibula in an adult. Acute traumatic bowing of bone has only recently been recognized. Although most of these unusual fractures have been described in the pediatric forearm, bowing fractures of other juvenile long bones have also been reported. The authors describe a case of an acute bowing fracture of the fibula in a young adult.", "PMID": 441367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5189", "title": "Acute plastic bowing fractures of the fibula.", "content": "Two cases of acute plastic bowing fractures of the fibula are described. A brief description of the mechanism of bone deformation under stress and the pathological cortical microfractures involved in bowing fractures is given.", "contents": "Acute plastic bowing fractures of the fibula. Two cases of acute plastic bowing fractures of the fibula are described. A brief description of the mechanism of bone deformation under stress and the pathological cortical microfractures involved in bowing fractures is given.", "PMID": 441368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5190", "title": "Lymphangiography in staging of carcinoma of the prostate: the potential value of percutaneous lymph node biopsy.", "content": "Bilateral pedal lymphangiography was performed in the staging of 208 patients with prostatic carcinoma. Forty-seven (23%) were found to have lymph node involvement, and 40 of these 47 had Stage C disease. Nine per cent of the Stage C1 patients (moderately advanced disease) and 37% of Stage C2 (massive carcinoma) had lymph node metastases. The distribution of the abnormal nodes was in continuity with the lymph node drainage from the prostate. The external iliac nodes were the most frequent site of metastases. Histological confirmation was obtained in 20 of the 40 positive Stage C2 cases. More recently, percutaneous aspiration biopsy of the opacified nodes was used to document the presence of metastic disease, thereby extending the value of lymphangiography.", "contents": "Lymphangiography in staging of carcinoma of the prostate: the potential value of percutaneous lymph node biopsy. Bilateral pedal lymphangiography was performed in the staging of 208 patients with prostatic carcinoma. Forty-seven (23%) were found to have lymph node involvement, and 40 of these 47 had Stage C disease. Nine per cent of the Stage C1 patients (moderately advanced disease) and 37% of Stage C2 (massive carcinoma) had lymph node metastases. The distribution of the abnormal nodes was in continuity with the lymph node drainage from the prostate. The external iliac nodes were the most frequent site of metastases. Histological confirmation was obtained in 20 of the 40 positive Stage C2 cases. More recently, percutaneous aspiration biopsy of the opacified nodes was used to document the presence of metastic disease, thereby extending the value of lymphangiography.", "PMID": 441369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5191", "title": "Percutaneous transperitoneal lymph-node biopsy as a means of improving lymphographic diagnosis.", "content": "Percutaneous transperitoneal fine-needle lymph-node biopsy was performed in 52 patients to establish a diagnosis of metastatic disease in nodal defects detected during lymphography. The procedure was found to be highly accurate, with few false-negatives and no false-positives.", "contents": "Percutaneous transperitoneal lymph-node biopsy as a means of improving lymphographic diagnosis. Percutaneous transperitoneal fine-needle lymph-node biopsy was performed in 52 patients to establish a diagnosis of metastatic disease in nodal defects detected during lymphography. The procedure was found to be highly accurate, with few false-negatives and no false-positives.", "PMID": 441370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5192", "title": "Pneumonia of atypical measles.", "content": "Infection with rubeola virus after previous immunization with killed measles virus vaccine produced abnormal chest radiographs in 9 patients. Variable pneumonic consolidation occurred in all cases and was mainly lobar or segmental in distribution. Four patients had hilar adenopathy, 3 pleural effusion, and in 1 instance a pulmonary nodule remained 9 months after clearing of the acute pneumonia. Atypical measles pneumonia is a presumed hypersensitivity response in incompletely immunized patients.", "contents": "Pneumonia of atypical measles. Infection with rubeola virus after previous immunization with killed measles virus vaccine produced abnormal chest radiographs in 9 patients. Variable pneumonic consolidation occurred in all cases and was mainly lobar or segmental in distribution. Four patients had hilar adenopathy, 3 pleural effusion, and in 1 instance a pulmonary nodule remained 9 months after clearing of the acute pneumonia. Atypical measles pneumonia is a presumed hypersensitivity response in incompletely immunized patients.", "PMID": 441371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5193", "title": "Hamartoma (mesenchymoma) of the chest wall in infancy.", "content": "Chest wall hamartoma, commonly known as mesenchymoma, is very rare in infants and usually present at birth. This lesion is a focal overgrowth of normal skeletal elements, Histologically, it is benign. The radiographic appearance is that of a partially mineralized extrapleural mass involving one or more ribs. Surgical ablation seems to be the proper treatment and is curative. Nine cases of this condition are presented, including long-term follow-up in 4.", "contents": "Hamartoma (mesenchymoma) of the chest wall in infancy. Chest wall hamartoma, commonly known as mesenchymoma, is very rare in infants and usually present at birth. This lesion is a focal overgrowth of normal skeletal elements, Histologically, it is benign. The radiographic appearance is that of a partially mineralized extrapleural mass involving one or more ribs. Surgical ablation seems to be the proper treatment and is curative. Nine cases of this condition are presented, including long-term follow-up in 4.", "PMID": 441372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5194", "title": "Polyvinyl foam embolization of vascular and neoplastic lesions of the head, neck, and spine.", "content": "Embolization of vascular and neoplastic lesions of the head, neck, and spine may be performed either as primary therapy (particularly for lesions which are difficult to approach surgically) or preoperatively to decrease blood loss. Polyvinyl alcohol foam (PAF) offers a number of advantages over other embolic material, including biocompatibility, promotion of progressive thrombosis and fibrosis, permanence, compressibility, and manageability. The clinical cases illustrate the kinds of lesions that are amenable to embolization, including arteriovenous malformations, arteriovenous fistulas, meningiomas, and nasopharyngeal tumors. Techniques and possible complications are discussed.", "contents": "Polyvinyl foam embolization of vascular and neoplastic lesions of the head, neck, and spine. Embolization of vascular and neoplastic lesions of the head, neck, and spine may be performed either as primary therapy (particularly for lesions which are difficult to approach surgically) or preoperatively to decrease blood loss. Polyvinyl alcohol foam (PAF) offers a number of advantages over other embolic material, including biocompatibility, promotion of progressive thrombosis and fibrosis, permanence, compressibility, and manageability. The clinical cases illustrate the kinds of lesions that are amenable to embolization, including arteriovenous malformations, arteriovenous fistulas, meningiomas, and nasopharyngeal tumors. Techniques and possible complications are discussed.", "PMID": 441373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5195", "title": "Cerebral thrombosis associated with Amicar therapy.", "content": "Amicar (epsilon-aminocaproic acid) has been used in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage to promote clotting. However, cerebral thrombosis has been reported in various vascular compartments following its use. The authors describe 2 patients who had cerebral angiography after Amicar therapy and demonstrated thrombosis unrelated to vascular spasm or technical complications of angiography. Careful screening is needed in patients treated with Amicar to determine if an increased risk of thrombosis exists.", "contents": "Cerebral thrombosis associated with Amicar therapy. Amicar (epsilon-aminocaproic acid) has been used in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage to promote clotting. However, cerebral thrombosis has been reported in various vascular compartments following its use. The authors describe 2 patients who had cerebral angiography after Amicar therapy and demonstrated thrombosis unrelated to vascular spasm or technical complications of angiography. Careful screening is needed in patients treated with Amicar to determine if an increased risk of thrombosis exists.", "PMID": 441374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5196", "title": "Computed tomographic positive contrast peritoneography.", "content": "Despite the use of intravenous and oral contrast material and antiperistaltic pharmaceuticals, abdominal computed tomography has limitations in the morphological study of the gastrointestinal tract, retroperitoneum, and pelvis. To better define these regions, positive contrast material was infused into the peritoneal space prior to abdominal CT. Results included: improved visualization of the peritoneal cavity and its contents; evident demarcation between the retroperitoneal space and intraperitoneal structures; sharp delineation of serosal surfaces of the bowel and solid viscera; and an obvious distinction between impinging bowel loops and pelvic organs.", "contents": "Computed tomographic positive contrast peritoneography. Despite the use of intravenous and oral contrast material and antiperistaltic pharmaceuticals, abdominal computed tomography has limitations in the morphological study of the gastrointestinal tract, retroperitoneum, and pelvis. To better define these regions, positive contrast material was infused into the peritoneal space prior to abdominal CT. Results included: improved visualization of the peritoneal cavity and its contents; evident demarcation between the retroperitoneal space and intraperitoneal structures; sharp delineation of serosal surfaces of the bowel and solid viscera; and an obvious distinction between impinging bowel loops and pelvic organs.", "PMID": 441375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5197", "title": "Gray-scale ultrasonic features of ovarian teratomas.", "content": "Forty patients with pelvic masses were examined with ultrasound; surgical exploration subsequently revealed an ovarian teratoma. The echographic appearance of the lesions was extremely variable. Although a number of characteristic features of teratomas have been described (axial location, solid mural component, acoustic shadow, and \"hair/fluid level\"), these occurred only in a minority (17/40) of patients. When the clinical setting suggests an ovarian teratoma, the ultrasonographer should consider it regardless of the internal architecture and consistency of the mass.", "contents": "Gray-scale ultrasonic features of ovarian teratomas. Forty patients with pelvic masses were examined with ultrasound; surgical exploration subsequently revealed an ovarian teratoma. The echographic appearance of the lesions was extremely variable. Although a number of characteristic features of teratomas have been described (axial location, solid mural component, acoustic shadow, and \"hair/fluid level\"), these occurred only in a minority (17/40) of patients. When the clinical setting suggests an ovarian teratoma, the ultrasonographer should consider it regardless of the internal architecture and consistency of the mass.", "PMID": 441376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5198", "title": "High-resolution ultrasonography of scrotal pathology.", "content": "A prototype high-resolution (10-MHz) real-time ultrasonic system was used to study 22 patients who were ultimately proved to have intra- and extratesticular tumors, scrotal fluid collections, and inflammatory processes. In 5 of 6 patients with primary testicular masses, there were areas of decreased echogenicity within the testis when compared with surrounding normal tissue. In general, the method was highly effective in differentiating and characterizing testicular and extratesticular processes.", "contents": "High-resolution ultrasonography of scrotal pathology. A prototype high-resolution (10-MHz) real-time ultrasonic system was used to study 22 patients who were ultimately proved to have intra- and extratesticular tumors, scrotal fluid collections, and inflammatory processes. In 5 of 6 patients with primary testicular masses, there were areas of decreased echogenicity within the testis when compared with surrounding normal tissue. In general, the method was highly effective in differentiating and characterizing testicular and extratesticular processes.", "PMID": 441377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5199", "title": "67Ga scanning in the evaluation of esophageal carcinoma.", "content": "Eighty-nine patients with histologically proved esophageal carcinoma were scanned with 67Ga to screen for extramural tumor extension and lymph-node involvement. Radiation dose and reduction of uptake were correlated. 67Ga accumulation indicated extramural extension with a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 93%. Marked uptake in an extraprimary site in the mediastinum or upper abdomen indicated lymph-node involvement with a sensitivity of 27% and a specificity of 100%. Irradiation with more than 20 Gy (2,000 rad) reduced uptake (P less than 0.05). 67Ga scanning appears to be useful in the evaluation of esophageal carcinoma.", "contents": "67Ga scanning in the evaluation of esophageal carcinoma. Eighty-nine patients with histologically proved esophageal carcinoma were scanned with 67Ga to screen for extramural tumor extension and lymph-node involvement. Radiation dose and reduction of uptake were correlated. 67Ga accumulation indicated extramural extension with a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 93%. Marked uptake in an extraprimary site in the mediastinum or upper abdomen indicated lymph-node involvement with a sensitivity of 27% and a specificity of 100%. Irradiation with more than 20 Gy (2,000 rad) reduced uptake (P less than 0.05). 67Ga scanning appears to be useful in the evaluation of esophageal carcinoma.", "PMID": 441378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5200", "title": "Scintigraphic features of nonosteogenic fibroma.", "content": "Three cases of nonosteogenic fibroma or fibrous cortical defect are presented which demonstrated scintigraphic findings of minimal to mild increased uptake of bone-seeking radiopharmaceutical and thus helped to distinguish these lesions from other benign or malignant abnormalities. The authors suggest that the two types of lesion are not fundamentally different from one another.", "contents": "Scintigraphic features of nonosteogenic fibroma. Three cases of nonosteogenic fibroma or fibrous cortical defect are presented which demonstrated scintigraphic findings of minimal to mild increased uptake of bone-seeking radiopharmaceutical and thus helped to distinguish these lesions from other benign or malignant abnormalities. The authors suggest that the two types of lesion are not fundamentally different from one another.", "PMID": 441379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5201", "title": "The opossum as an animal model for studying radiation esophagitis.", "content": "Six opossums were evaluated as a possible animal model of radiation esophagitis. In a single exposure to the esophagus, four animals received 60Co radiation of various doses; two served as controls. Pre- and postirradiation evaluations using fiberoptic endoscopy, mucosal biopsy, barium esophagography, and manometry were performed. Esophagitis developed at one week in irradiated animals. Opossums receiving 17.5, 20, and 22.5 Gy (1,750; 2,000; and 2,250 rad) became anorexic one week postirradiation, and abnormal motility subsequently developed. The controls and the animal receiving 15 Gy (1,500 rad) remained normal. Histological changes in the irradiated opossum esophagus resembled those found in humans.", "contents": "The opossum as an animal model for studying radiation esophagitis. Six opossums were evaluated as a possible animal model of radiation esophagitis. In a single exposure to the esophagus, four animals received 60Co radiation of various doses; two served as controls. Pre- and postirradiation evaluations using fiberoptic endoscopy, mucosal biopsy, barium esophagography, and manometry were performed. Esophagitis developed at one week in irradiated animals. Opossums receiving 17.5, 20, and 22.5 Gy (1,750; 2,000; and 2,250 rad) became anorexic one week postirradiation, and abnormal motility subsequently developed. The controls and the animal receiving 15 Gy (1,500 rad) remained normal. Histological changes in the irradiated opossum esophagus resembled those found in humans.", "PMID": 441380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5202", "title": "Light output and x-ray attenuation measurements at mammographic beam qualities for nine commercial intensifying screens.", "content": "X-ray attenuation and intensity of light emitted were measured for nine intensifying screens used in mammography. Incident beam qualities with half value layers in the range of 0.38 to 2.68 mm Al were used to simulate the range of clinical conditions encountered in mammography. All the screens attenuated the x-ray beam to a similar extent at these beam qualities, but a wide variation in the intensity of light emitted was observed. The interrelation of the measured physical parameters in determining both the system speed and noise properties is discussed.", "contents": "Light output and x-ray attenuation measurements at mammographic beam qualities for nine commercial intensifying screens. X-ray attenuation and intensity of light emitted were measured for nine intensifying screens used in mammography. Incident beam qualities with half value layers in the range of 0.38 to 2.68 mm Al were used to simulate the range of clinical conditions encountered in mammography. All the screens attenuated the x-ray beam to a similar extent at these beam qualities, but a wide variation in the intensity of light emitted was observed. The interrelation of the measured physical parameters in determining both the system speed and noise properties is discussed.", "PMID": 441381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5203", "title": "Magnification mammography: a low-dose technique.", "content": "Image quality and radiation exposures of a mammographic technique using direct radiographic magnification at 2 X with a microfocal spot x-ray tube and a fast, double screen-film system were compared to those of conventional contact mammography with a rare-earth screen and molybdenum target tube. The results indicate that the magnification technique yields improved detection of microcalcifications and comparable visualization of soft-tissue details, with a large reduction in radiation exposure. This technique has demonstrated the feasibility of carrying out high-quality mammography with an entrance dose of 1.35 X 10(-3) Gy (135 mrad) for the average breast.", "contents": "Magnification mammography: a low-dose technique. Image quality and radiation exposures of a mammographic technique using direct radiographic magnification at 2 X with a microfocal spot x-ray tube and a fast, double screen-film system were compared to those of conventional contact mammography with a rare-earth screen and molybdenum target tube. The results indicate that the magnification technique yields improved detection of microcalcifications and comparable visualization of soft-tissue details, with a large reduction in radiation exposure. This technique has demonstrated the feasibility of carrying out high-quality mammography with an entrance dose of 1.35 X 10(-3) Gy (135 mrad) for the average breast.", "PMID": 441382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5204", "title": "Modification of radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats.", "content": "Male rats received 25 Gy (2,500 rad) of gamma rays to the right hemithorax and were killed three or six months later. Microscopic pulmonary abnormalities developed sooner and progressed more rapidly in animals given control feed than in those given the collagen antagonist D-penicillamine (10 mg/day, p.o.). Three and four months after irradiation, hypoperfusion and radiographic hyperlucency of the right lung were observed in both the treated and control animals.", "contents": "Modification of radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. Male rats received 25 Gy (2,500 rad) of gamma rays to the right hemithorax and were killed three or six months later. Microscopic pulmonary abnormalities developed sooner and progressed more rapidly in animals given control feed than in those given the collagen antagonist D-penicillamine (10 mg/day, p.o.). Three and four months after irradiation, hypoperfusion and radiographic hyperlucency of the right lung were observed in both the treated and control animals.", "PMID": 441383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5205", "title": "Comparison of the protective action of glutathione and cysteamine on radiation-induced mitotic delay in cultured S-5 cells.", "content": "The protective effect of glutathione (GSH) and cysteamine (MEA) on radiation-induced mitotic delay in cultured mammalian L-5 cells was studied. Cells treated with 20 mM of GSH during irradiation with 2 Gy (200 rad) showed faster recovery of the mitotic index than control cells irradiated without chemical treatment; however, GSH had no effect on mitotic delay time. Inhibition of mitosis was observed with 80, 100, and 120 mM of GSH. Cells treated with 5 mM of MEA during irradiation also showed faster recovery of the mitotic index than the controls, but in addition the delay time was shortened. Progression of G2-phase cells treated with 5-fluorouracil to mitosis after irradiation was protected by MEA but not by GSH. Progression of S-phase cells labeled with 3H-thymidine to mitosis was accelerated by both agents during irradiation.", "contents": "Comparison of the protective action of glutathione and cysteamine on radiation-induced mitotic delay in cultured S-5 cells. The protective effect of glutathione (GSH) and cysteamine (MEA) on radiation-induced mitotic delay in cultured mammalian L-5 cells was studied. Cells treated with 20 mM of GSH during irradiation with 2 Gy (200 rad) showed faster recovery of the mitotic index than control cells irradiated without chemical treatment; however, GSH had no effect on mitotic delay time. Inhibition of mitosis was observed with 80, 100, and 120 mM of GSH. Cells treated with 5 mM of MEA during irradiation also showed faster recovery of the mitotic index than the controls, but in addition the delay time was shortened. Progression of G2-phase cells treated with 5-fluorouracil to mitosis after irradiation was protected by MEA but not by GSH. Progression of S-phase cells labeled with 3H-thymidine to mitosis was accelerated by both agents during irradiation.", "PMID": 441384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5206", "title": "Irradiation of the microvasculature with fast neutrons.", "content": "Single- and split-dose irradiation of the eyes of dogs was performed with cyclotron-produced polyenergetic neutrons at a rate of about 0.2 Gy (20 rad) per minute. Neovascularization was subsequently induced surgically in the avascular corneas and stimulated for 7 days to study the response of slowly proliferating capillary endothelial cells. Corneal tissue samples were evaluated quantitatively by morphometric methods. A dose-response curve was drawn by plotting per cent capillary volume versus dose. D0 was 2 Gy (200 rad), and the recovery ability was determined to be equivalent to 1.3 Gy (130 rad). Depending on the level of damage, relative biological effectiveness (RBE) values were 1.9 to 2.3.", "contents": "Irradiation of the microvasculature with fast neutrons. Single- and split-dose irradiation of the eyes of dogs was performed with cyclotron-produced polyenergetic neutrons at a rate of about 0.2 Gy (20 rad) per minute. Neovascularization was subsequently induced surgically in the avascular corneas and stimulated for 7 days to study the response of slowly proliferating capillary endothelial cells. Corneal tissue samples were evaluated quantitatively by morphometric methods. A dose-response curve was drawn by plotting per cent capillary volume versus dose. D0 was 2 Gy (200 rad), and the recovery ability was determined to be equivalent to 1.3 Gy (130 rad). Depending on the level of damage, relative biological effectiveness (RBE) values were 1.9 to 2.3.", "PMID": 441385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5207", "title": "Transmission computed tomographic diagnosis of experimentally produced acute pulmonary vascular occlusion in the dog.", "content": "Acute experimental pulmonary arterial occlusions were produced in 5 dogs. The chest was subsequently imaged with computed tomography (CT), 99mTc-MAA scintigraphy, and plain radiography. Gamma images revealed all 6 lesions, and plain radiographs were uniformly negative. Enhanced CT scans demonstrated 3 of 5 lesions, and unenhanced scans revealed 1 of 6. CT findings were variable.", "contents": "Transmission computed tomographic diagnosis of experimentally produced acute pulmonary vascular occlusion in the dog. Acute experimental pulmonary arterial occlusions were produced in 5 dogs. The chest was subsequently imaged with computed tomography (CT), 99mTc-MAA scintigraphy, and plain radiography. Gamma images revealed all 6 lesions, and plain radiographs were uniformly negative. Enhanced CT scans demonstrated 3 of 5 lesions, and unenhanced scans revealed 1 of 6. CT findings were variable.", "PMID": 441386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5208", "title": "Heparin-induced thromboembolism: angiographic features.", "content": "Angiographic evaluation of heparin-induced thromboembolism in 3 patients who suffered disastrous consequences revealed a distinctive radiographic appearance consisting of mural filling defects quite unlike atheromatous plaques. These lesions were broad-based, isolated, gently lobulated excrescences which produced 30-95% narrowing of the arterial lumen. In eache case, the lesions were located proximal to sites of arterial occlusion.", "contents": "Heparin-induced thromboembolism: angiographic features. Angiographic evaluation of heparin-induced thromboembolism in 3 patients who suffered disastrous consequences revealed a distinctive radiographic appearance consisting of mural filling defects quite unlike atheromatous plaques. These lesions were broad-based, isolated, gently lobulated excrescences which produced 30-95% narrowing of the arterial lumen. In eache case, the lesions were located proximal to sites of arterial occlusion.", "PMID": 441387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5209", "title": "Desferoxamine mesylate (Desferal): a contrast-enhancing agent for gallium-37 imaging.", "content": "Desferal (desferoxamine mesylate) was investigated as a contrast-enhancing agent for tumor and abscess imaging with 67Ga-citrate. Tumor studies were performed in mice with Cloudman S-91 melanoma. Abscess studies were performed with a subcutaneous abscess model in rabbits. When Desferal is administered 16 to 18 hours after injection of 67Ga, rapid blood clearance of 67 Ga occurs with only slight (tumor) or no (abscess) loss of activity from the lesion. Retention in other organs is variable. Tumor-to-blood ratios are improved eightfold in tumor and fourfold in abscess in studies performed with single Desferal injections of 150 mg/kg. Blood and total body clearance studies in rabbits reveal that maximum Desferal effect is achieved in the 17 to 50 mg/kg dose range and that only minimal improvement occurs at higher doses.", "contents": "Desferoxamine mesylate (Desferal): a contrast-enhancing agent for gallium-37 imaging. Desferal (desferoxamine mesylate) was investigated as a contrast-enhancing agent for tumor and abscess imaging with 67Ga-citrate. Tumor studies were performed in mice with Cloudman S-91 melanoma. Abscess studies were performed with a subcutaneous abscess model in rabbits. When Desferal is administered 16 to 18 hours after injection of 67Ga, rapid blood clearance of 67 Ga occurs with only slight (tumor) or no (abscess) loss of activity from the lesion. Retention in other organs is variable. Tumor-to-blood ratios are improved eightfold in tumor and fourfold in abscess in studies performed with single Desferal injections of 150 mg/kg. Blood and total body clearance studies in rabbits reveal that maximum Desferal effect is achieved in the 17 to 50 mg/kg dose range and that only minimal improvement occurs at higher doses.", "PMID": 441388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5210", "title": "Ultrasonic measurement of the fetal ventricular system.", "content": "The ventricular systems of 178 fetal heads, ranging from 13 weeks gestation to term, were examined with ultrasonic \"B\" scans. The width of the frontal horns and of the third ventricle was measured. The distances between the temporal horns and between the sylvian fissures were also examined. The most important clinical measurement is that of the frontal horns. The combined width of the two frontal horns averaged 1.1 cm at 13 weeks and grew to an average of 2.4 cm at term. The 99% upper limits of confidence for these measurements were 1.45 cm and 2.78 cm, respectively. The frontal horn to BPD ratio decreased from 0.48 at 13 weeks to 0.25 at term. These measurements are considered important for the evaluation of possible ventricular dilatation in utero.", "contents": "Ultrasonic measurement of the fetal ventricular system. The ventricular systems of 178 fetal heads, ranging from 13 weeks gestation to term, were examined with ultrasonic \"B\" scans. The width of the frontal horns and of the third ventricle was measured. The distances between the temporal horns and between the sylvian fissures were also examined. The most important clinical measurement is that of the frontal horns. The combined width of the two frontal horns averaged 1.1 cm at 13 weeks and grew to an average of 2.4 cm at term. The 99% upper limits of confidence for these measurements were 1.45 cm and 2.78 cm, respectively. The frontal horn to BPD ratio decreased from 0.48 at 13 weeks to 0.25 at term. These measurements are considered important for the evaluation of possible ventricular dilatation in utero.", "PMID": 441389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5211", "title": "Real-time high resolution ultrasound in the detection of biliary calculi.", "content": "A high-resolution real-time ultrasound sector scanner was used in the evaluation of patients with suspected gallbladder disease. This technique is noninvasive, requires minimal preparation, and takes less than five minutes for a thorough examination of the gallbladder and related anatomy. In 17 months, 959 patients were examined for suspected gallbladder disease and the gallbladder was adequately visualized in all but 5 patients. Follow-up information was obtained from surgery in 153 cases. There were 132 true-positive studies, 15 true-negative, 5 false-negative and one-false positive study. In a correlative study with oral cholecystography, calculi were detected ultrasonically in 5 cases that had been missed on the oral cholecystogram.", "contents": "Real-time high resolution ultrasound in the detection of biliary calculi. A high-resolution real-time ultrasound sector scanner was used in the evaluation of patients with suspected gallbladder disease. This technique is noninvasive, requires minimal preparation, and takes less than five minutes for a thorough examination of the gallbladder and related anatomy. In 17 months, 959 patients were examined for suspected gallbladder disease and the gallbladder was adequately visualized in all but 5 patients. Follow-up information was obtained from surgery in 153 cases. There were 132 true-positive studies, 15 true-negative, 5 false-negative and one-false positive study. In a correlative study with oral cholecystography, calculi were detected ultrasonically in 5 cases that had been missed on the oral cholecystogram.", "PMID": 441390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5212", "title": "The effect of penicillamine on radiation-induced pulmonary lethality in mice.", "content": "The collagen inhibitor D-penicillamine was evaluated as a potential radiation reaction preventive agent by studying its effect on deaths attributed to pulmonary damage in mice. Long-term administration of D-penicillamine at a rate of 100 mg/kg/day had no significant effect on the LD50/160 in mice following pulmonary irradiation.", "contents": "The effect of penicillamine on radiation-induced pulmonary lethality in mice. The collagen inhibitor D-penicillamine was evaluated as a potential radiation reaction preventive agent by studying its effect on deaths attributed to pulmonary damage in mice. Long-term administration of D-penicillamine at a rate of 100 mg/kg/day had no significant effect on the LD50/160 in mice following pulmonary irradiation.", "PMID": 441391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5213", "title": "Low-reflectance eyeglass lenses: a viewing aid to radiologists.", "content": "Low-reflectance coatings can significantly improve the low contrast resolution (MTF) of eyeglass lenses. The reflectance per surface can be reduced from 4.25% for uncoated lenses to 0.5% for multi-layer coated lenses. The radiologist who wears glasses will note improved viewing comfort with coated lenses and possibly a reduced error rate.", "contents": "Low-reflectance eyeglass lenses: a viewing aid to radiologists. Low-reflectance coatings can significantly improve the low contrast resolution (MTF) of eyeglass lenses. The reflectance per surface can be reduced from 4.25% for uncoated lenses to 0.5% for multi-layer coated lenses. The radiologist who wears glasses will note improved viewing comfort with coated lenses and possibly a reduced error rate.", "PMID": 441392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5214", "title": "Simplified solid-particle embolization with a new introducer.", "content": "A new and simple introducer for solid embolic particles consists of teflon tubing sized to prevent particle overriding, coupled with a backflow-limiting end adaptor, and has sterilization caps. The size-coded introducers can be of a preselected diameter and easily introduce from 1 to 30 emboli at a time.", "contents": "Simplified solid-particle embolization with a new introducer. A new and simple introducer for solid embolic particles consists of teflon tubing sized to prevent particle overriding, coupled with a backflow-limiting end adaptor, and has sterilization caps. The size-coded introducers can be of a preselected diameter and easily introduce from 1 to 30 emboli at a time.", "PMID": 441393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5215", "title": "Radiation measurement with a solid-state-matrix camera.", "content": "A solid-state-matrix camera containing 32 X 32 photodiode array served as the output device on an image intensifier tube. The resulting images had poor spatial resolution but permitted precise measurement of x-ray intensity. Transmission differences of 1% were detectable.", "contents": "Radiation measurement with a solid-state-matrix camera. A solid-state-matrix camera containing 32 X 32 photodiode array served as the output device on an image intensifier tube. The resulting images had poor spatial resolution but permitted precise measurement of x-ray intensity. Transmission differences of 1% were detectable.", "PMID": 441394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5216", "title": "The pediatric tracheostomy: simple roentgen studies of morphology and function.", "content": "Following tracheostomy, simple roentgen studies coordinated with decannulation permit accurate evaluation of the pediatric patient. These studies require alertness to the child's clinical condition as well as a selective, monitored roentgen technique. The conventional lateral neck radiograph and the high-kV frontal tracheogram complete the evaluation in most cases. Fluoroscopy and xerography can be of additional value if decannulation is difficult, though xerography should be used only to confirm the presence of a granuloma seen on the conventional radiograph.", "contents": "The pediatric tracheostomy: simple roentgen studies of morphology and function. Following tracheostomy, simple roentgen studies coordinated with decannulation permit accurate evaluation of the pediatric patient. These studies require alertness to the child's clinical condition as well as a selective, monitored roentgen technique. The conventional lateral neck radiograph and the high-kV frontal tracheogram complete the evaluation in most cases. Fluoroscopy and xerography can be of additional value if decannulation is difficult, though xerography should be used only to confirm the presence of a granuloma seen on the conventional radiograph.", "PMID": 441395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5217", "title": "Smooth muscle tumors of the stomach and small bowel.", "content": "Smooth muscle tumors of the stomach and small bowel, although rare, have a favorable prognosis when recognized and treated promptly. This review of 33 patients with leiomyoma, leiomyblastoma, or leiomyosarcoma of the stomach and small intestine reveals that all but two were treated by resection of the tumor, with good results.", "contents": "Smooth muscle tumors of the stomach and small bowel. Smooth muscle tumors of the stomach and small bowel, although rare, have a favorable prognosis when recognized and treated promptly. This review of 33 patients with leiomyoma, leiomyblastoma, or leiomyosarcoma of the stomach and small intestine reveals that all but two were treated by resection of the tumor, with good results.", "PMID": 441397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5218", "title": "Electroconvulsive therapy: an overview.", "content": "Modifications in technique, including the use of anesthesia and muscle-relaxing drugs, make electroconvulsive therapy safe and easy to administer. There are few contraindications, complications are rare, and efficacy is well-documented.", "contents": "Electroconvulsive therapy: an overview. Modifications in technique, including the use of anesthesia and muscle-relaxing drugs, make electroconvulsive therapy safe and easy to administer. There are few contraindications, complications are rare, and efficacy is well-documented.", "PMID": 441398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5219", "title": "Kidney neoplasms.", "content": "The author reviews the diagnosis and treatment of carcinoma of the kidney. Surgery remains the most effective therapy. The management of metastatic disease is discussed.", "contents": "Kidney neoplasms. The author reviews the diagnosis and treatment of carcinoma of the kidney. Surgery remains the most effective therapy. The management of metastatic disease is discussed.", "PMID": 441399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5220", "title": "Rupture of the uterus following treatment with 16-16-dimethyl E 2 prostaglandin vagitories.", "content": "Rupture of the uterine body was found after induction of therapeutic abortion with vaginal suppositories containing 16, 16-dimethyl prostaglandin E 2 in a 20-year-old primigravida. A short discussion is given on the cervical complications that can occur after prostaglandin induction of abortion, stating that rupture of the uterine body also can be seen. So far, no prostaglandin compound seems to avoid such complications.", "contents": "Rupture of the uterus following treatment with 16-16-dimethyl E 2 prostaglandin vagitories. Rupture of the uterine body was found after induction of therapeutic abortion with vaginal suppositories containing 16, 16-dimethyl prostaglandin E 2 in a 20-year-old primigravida. A short discussion is given on the cervical complications that can occur after prostaglandin induction of abortion, stating that rupture of the uterine body also can be seen. So far, no prostaglandin compound seems to avoid such complications.", "PMID": 441421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5221", "title": "Cervical ripening prior to induction of labor (intracervical application of a PG E2 viscous gel).", "content": "In 38 pregnant patients at term with unfavorable cervices labor induction was initiated with PG-E2 after a preceding intracervical application of 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 mg PG-E2 in 1 ml viscous gel. The mean Bishop score improved from 3.36 to 7.0 in an average time of 2 h 37 min. The cervical diameter increased from 14 mm to 22.7 mm. 31 patients delivered their babies spontaneously, while 7 patients were delivered by cesarean section due to cervical dystocia and delayed labor. Fetal outcome was normal in all cases, with an average Apgar score of 8.7 and an average pH-value in the umbilical artery of 7.245. The study indicates that local application of PG-E2 induces cervical dilatation, and is of particular use in patients presenting a low Bishop score. A possible local effect of PG E2 is discussed.", "contents": "Cervical ripening prior to induction of labor (intracervical application of a PG E2 viscous gel). In 38 pregnant patients at term with unfavorable cervices labor induction was initiated with PG-E2 after a preceding intracervical application of 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 mg PG-E2 in 1 ml viscous gel. The mean Bishop score improved from 3.36 to 7.0 in an average time of 2 h 37 min. The cervical diameter increased from 14 mm to 22.7 mm. 31 patients delivered their babies spontaneously, while 7 patients were delivered by cesarean section due to cervical dystocia and delayed labor. Fetal outcome was normal in all cases, with an average Apgar score of 8.7 and an average pH-value in the umbilical artery of 7.245. The study indicates that local application of PG-E2 induces cervical dilatation, and is of particular use in patients presenting a low Bishop score. A possible local effect of PG E2 is discussed.", "PMID": 441422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5222", "title": "Relationship between seminal PGE and 19-OH PGE and seminal fructose in man.", "content": "Seminal PGE, 19-OH PGE and fructose were assayed in normal volunteers and in infertile patients. From data obtained it appears that seminal PGE are probably not synthesized exclusively at seminal vesicles level since no relationship was observed between PGE and fructose. On the other hand the seminal vesicles appear to be the preferential site of seminal 19-OH PGE production since a close relationship was observed between 19-OH PGE and fructose in those case in which these prostaglandins were below minimum normal values. Various hypotheses are advanced in order to interpret the lack of correlation in the presence of high 19-OH PGE levels.", "contents": "Relationship between seminal PGE and 19-OH PGE and seminal fructose in man. Seminal PGE, 19-OH PGE and fructose were assayed in normal volunteers and in infertile patients. From data obtained it appears that seminal PGE are probably not synthesized exclusively at seminal vesicles level since no relationship was observed between PGE and fructose. On the other hand the seminal vesicles appear to be the preferential site of seminal 19-OH PGE production since a close relationship was observed between 19-OH PGE and fructose in those case in which these prostaglandins were below minimum normal values. Various hypotheses are advanced in order to interpret the lack of correlation in the presence of high 19-OH PGE levels.", "PMID": 441423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5223", "title": "Lysozyme in amniotic fluid during rivanol-induced second trimester abortion.", "content": "The concentrations of lysozyme and free arachidonic acid in amniotic fluid were determined in eight patients during induction of second trimester abortion. Abortion was induced by extraamniotic instillation of 150 ml 0.1% Rivanol. Lysozyme increased in all patients during the induction reaching significancy after 60% of the induction-abortion time. This suggests a leakage of lysosomal enzymes from the fetal membranes. Free arachidonic acid relative to total free fatty acids increased parallell to lysozyme.", "contents": "Lysozyme in amniotic fluid during rivanol-induced second trimester abortion. The concentrations of lysozyme and free arachidonic acid in amniotic fluid were determined in eight patients during induction of second trimester abortion. Abortion was induced by extraamniotic instillation of 150 ml 0.1% Rivanol. Lysozyme increased in all patients during the induction reaching significancy after 60% of the induction-abortion time. This suggests a leakage of lysosomal enzymes from the fetal membranes. Free arachidonic acid relative to total free fatty acids increased parallell to lysozyme.", "PMID": 441424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5224", "title": "Influence of the arachidonic acid cascade on the in vitro hepatic response to hypoxia.", "content": "Studies were undertaken to determine the effect of arachidonic acid, the precursor of bisenoic prostanoic acid derivatives, on the response of the isolated, perfused rabbit liver to hypoxia. Two and one half hours of severe hypoxia resulted in significant increases in hepatic vascular perfusion pressure, tissue wet weight, and the rates of cellular loss of lactic dehydrogenase, malic dehydrogenase, and acid phosphatase into the perfusing medium. Hypoxia also increased the rate of hepatic PGF2 alpha production by 25% after 2 1/2 hours (p less than 0.05, hypoxia vs sham). The addition of arachidonic acid (0.1 microgram/g/min for 150 minutes) to the perfusion medium of hypoxic livers significantly attenuated the changes in perfusion pressure, tissue wet weight, and loss of cellular enzymes. Arachidonic acid administration increased the rate of PGF2 alpha production by 100% (p less than 0.05, sham vs hypoxia + arachidonic acid) within 30 min after hypoxia and maintained this rate for the duration of the study. These results demonstrate that hypoxia mediated prostaglandin F2 alpha synthesis in the rabbit liver can occur in the absence of neural and blood borne components and that significant activation of the arachidonic acid cascade via the administration of exogenous arachidonic acid has a salutary effect on hepatic hemodynamics and cellular integrity during hypoxia.", "contents": "Influence of the arachidonic acid cascade on the in vitro hepatic response to hypoxia. Studies were undertaken to determine the effect of arachidonic acid, the precursor of bisenoic prostanoic acid derivatives, on the response of the isolated, perfused rabbit liver to hypoxia. Two and one half hours of severe hypoxia resulted in significant increases in hepatic vascular perfusion pressure, tissue wet weight, and the rates of cellular loss of lactic dehydrogenase, malic dehydrogenase, and acid phosphatase into the perfusing medium. Hypoxia also increased the rate of hepatic PGF2 alpha production by 25% after 2 1/2 hours (p less than 0.05, hypoxia vs sham). The addition of arachidonic acid (0.1 microgram/g/min for 150 minutes) to the perfusion medium of hypoxic livers significantly attenuated the changes in perfusion pressure, tissue wet weight, and loss of cellular enzymes. Arachidonic acid administration increased the rate of PGF2 alpha production by 100% (p less than 0.05, sham vs hypoxia + arachidonic acid) within 30 min after hypoxia and maintained this rate for the duration of the study. These results demonstrate that hypoxia mediated prostaglandin F2 alpha synthesis in the rabbit liver can occur in the absence of neural and blood borne components and that significant activation of the arachidonic acid cascade via the administration of exogenous arachidonic acid has a salutary effect on hepatic hemodynamics and cellular integrity during hypoxia.", "PMID": 441425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5225", "title": "Does 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase contribute to prostaglandin inactivation in brain?", "content": "15-Methyl prostaglandin E2, a compound which is not a substrate for 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase, is a more potent pyretic agent than prostaglandin E2 when injected into the third ventricle of conscious cats. This finding raises the possibility that 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase contributes to prostaglandin inactivation in brain, notwithstanding its low activity.", "contents": "Does 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase contribute to prostaglandin inactivation in brain? 15-Methyl prostaglandin E2, a compound which is not a substrate for 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase, is a more potent pyretic agent than prostaglandin E2 when injected into the third ventricle of conscious cats. This finding raises the possibility that 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase contributes to prostaglandin inactivation in brain, notwithstanding its low activity.", "PMID": 441426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5226", "title": "Prostaglandin synthesis in isolated glomeruli.", "content": "Prostaglandins are thought to play an important role in the local regulation of glomerular blood flow and in the release of renin from the juxtaglomerular apparatus. We therefore examined prostaglandin synthesis by isolated rat glomeruli. Isolated glomeruli were either prelabeled with [14C] arachidonic acid or were incubated with [14C] arachidonic acid for the entire experimental incubation in Krebs buffer. Prostaglandin synthesis was determined by thin layer radio-chromatography of acid extracts of the supernatant solutions. Indomethacin inhibitable synthesis of small amounts of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the metabolite of prostacyclin (PGI2,) and larger amounts of PGF2 alpha, and PGE2, and possibly thromboxane B2 (TXB2) by isolated glomeruli could be demonstrated with either prelabeling or direct incubation. These findings support the hypothesis that prostaglandins are produced within the glomerulus where they may affect local glomerular blood flow and function.", "contents": "Prostaglandin synthesis in isolated glomeruli. Prostaglandins are thought to play an important role in the local regulation of glomerular blood flow and in the release of renin from the juxtaglomerular apparatus. We therefore examined prostaglandin synthesis by isolated rat glomeruli. Isolated glomeruli were either prelabeled with [14C] arachidonic acid or were incubated with [14C] arachidonic acid for the entire experimental incubation in Krebs buffer. Prostaglandin synthesis was determined by thin layer radio-chromatography of acid extracts of the supernatant solutions. Indomethacin inhibitable synthesis of small amounts of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the metabolite of prostacyclin (PGI2,) and larger amounts of PGF2 alpha, and PGE2, and possibly thromboxane B2 (TXB2) by isolated glomeruli could be demonstrated with either prelabeling or direct incubation. These findings support the hypothesis that prostaglandins are produced within the glomerulus where they may affect local glomerular blood flow and function.", "PMID": 441427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5227", "title": "Effect of low and high methional concentrations on prostaglandin biosynthesis in microsomes from bovine and sheep vesicular glands.", "content": "The effect of methional on prostaglandin biosynthesis from 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid was studied with microsomes from both bovine vesicular glands (BVG) and sheep vesicular glands (SVG). Ethylene was identified when methional was added to the fatty acid-microsome incubation systems showing that oxygen centered radicals such as hydroxyl radical were generated during incubation. A low methional level, 1 mM, enhanced the rate of prostaglandin biosynthesis in both BVG and SVG. A high methional level, 10 mM, inhibited prostaglandin biosynthesis in both BVG alone and SVG solubilized with 1% Tween 20. The inhibitory effect of 10 mM methional was reversed by lyophilization. These data suggest that oxygen centered radicals are used in prostaglandin biosynthesis even though they inactivate the enzyme complex.", "contents": "Effect of low and high methional concentrations on prostaglandin biosynthesis in microsomes from bovine and sheep vesicular glands. The effect of methional on prostaglandin biosynthesis from 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid was studied with microsomes from both bovine vesicular glands (BVG) and sheep vesicular glands (SVG). Ethylene was identified when methional was added to the fatty acid-microsome incubation systems showing that oxygen centered radicals such as hydroxyl radical were generated during incubation. A low methional level, 1 mM, enhanced the rate of prostaglandin biosynthesis in both BVG and SVG. A high methional level, 10 mM, inhibited prostaglandin biosynthesis in both BVG alone and SVG solubilized with 1% Tween 20. The inhibitory effect of 10 mM methional was reversed by lyophilization. These data suggest that oxygen centered radicals are used in prostaglandin biosynthesis even though they inactivate the enzyme complex.", "PMID": 441428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5228", "title": "Comparison of the effects of prostaglandins E1 and A1 on coronary occlusion induced arrhythmia.", "content": "The present study compares the effects of PGE1 and PGA1 on ventricular arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion. The left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was occluded abruptly in 55 cats anesthetized with alpha-chloralose. Lead II of the ECG along with arterial blood pressure were monitored for one hour after occlusion. Either vehicle or prostaglandin was infused into the left atrium (LA) or femoral vein (IV) 15 min prior to and for 1 hour after LAD occlusion at a rate of 0.15 ml/min. Prostaglandin was infused at either a high dose (1.0 microgram/kg/min) or a low dose (0.1 microgram/kg/min). Infusion of either PGE1 or PGA1 produced a marked fall in blood pressure and heart rate which returned toward control before occlusion. Abrupt occlusion of the LAD produced ventricular arrhythmia in all cats ranging from ventricular premature beats to ventricular fibrillation (VF). The control animals had a 38% incidence of VF. VF occurred in 75% of the animals in which PGE1 was administered into the LA at either the high or low dose while the occurrence in those administered PGA1 was 67% and 50%, respectively. Intravenous administration of the high dose of PGE1 or PGA1 resulted in VF in 13% and 67% of the animals after LAD occlusion, respectively. These data indicate that the IV administration of PGE1 may protect the heart from VF while the infusion of PGE1 or PGA1 into the LA may enhance VF after LAD occlusion.", "contents": "Comparison of the effects of prostaglandins E1 and A1 on coronary occlusion induced arrhythmia. The present study compares the effects of PGE1 and PGA1 on ventricular arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion. The left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was occluded abruptly in 55 cats anesthetized with alpha-chloralose. Lead II of the ECG along with arterial blood pressure were monitored for one hour after occlusion. Either vehicle or prostaglandin was infused into the left atrium (LA) or femoral vein (IV) 15 min prior to and for 1 hour after LAD occlusion at a rate of 0.15 ml/min. Prostaglandin was infused at either a high dose (1.0 microgram/kg/min) or a low dose (0.1 microgram/kg/min). Infusion of either PGE1 or PGA1 produced a marked fall in blood pressure and heart rate which returned toward control before occlusion. Abrupt occlusion of the LAD produced ventricular arrhythmia in all cats ranging from ventricular premature beats to ventricular fibrillation (VF). The control animals had a 38% incidence of VF. VF occurred in 75% of the animals in which PGE1 was administered into the LA at either the high or low dose while the occurrence in those administered PGA1 was 67% and 50%, respectively. Intravenous administration of the high dose of PGE1 or PGA1 resulted in VF in 13% and 67% of the animals after LAD occlusion, respectively. These data indicate that the IV administration of PGE1 may protect the heart from VF while the infusion of PGE1 or PGA1 into the LA may enhance VF after LAD occlusion.", "PMID": 441429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5229", "title": "Cancer growth, response to treatment and survival time in mice: beneficial effect of the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor flurbiprofen.", "content": "Adult mice were injected subcutaneously with cells from a syngeneic metastasizing mammary cancer. Daily treatment with flurbiprofen starting before injection of the cancer cells reduced tumour growth and lengthened the survival of mice whose tumours were excised at 3 weeks. When low doses of radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given, additional treatment with flurbiprofen starting 25 days after injecting the cancer cells substantially inhibited tumour growth.", "contents": "Cancer growth, response to treatment and survival time in mice: beneficial effect of the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor flurbiprofen. Adult mice were injected subcutaneously with cells from a syngeneic metastasizing mammary cancer. Daily treatment with flurbiprofen starting before injection of the cancer cells reduced tumour growth and lengthened the survival of mice whose tumours were excised at 3 weeks. When low doses of radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given, additional treatment with flurbiprofen starting 25 days after injecting the cancer cells substantially inhibited tumour growth.", "PMID": 441430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5230", "title": "Effect of prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha on neutrophil aggregation.", "content": "Recently we have found that chemotactic factors stimulate neutrophils in suspension to aggregate. Because of an obvious analogy to platelet aggregation, we examined the influence of three prostaglandins on this process. Prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha alone did not cause aggregation of the neutrophils but were able to partially inhibit the aggregation response induced by the synthetic chemotactic tripeptide, formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine. The minimal inhibitory concentrations for prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha were 10(-7), 10(-6) and 10(-5)M, respectively. These results are similar to those found for the prostaglandin-induced inhibition of platelet aggregation. It may be, therefore, that neutrophil aggregation, like platelet aggregation, is modulated by intracellular prostaglandins and other products of arachidonic acid metabolism.", "contents": "Effect of prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha on neutrophil aggregation. Recently we have found that chemotactic factors stimulate neutrophils in suspension to aggregate. Because of an obvious analogy to platelet aggregation, we examined the influence of three prostaglandins on this process. Prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha alone did not cause aggregation of the neutrophils but were able to partially inhibit the aggregation response induced by the synthetic chemotactic tripeptide, formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine. The minimal inhibitory concentrations for prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha were 10(-7), 10(-6) and 10(-5)M, respectively. These results are similar to those found for the prostaglandin-induced inhibition of platelet aggregation. It may be, therefore, that neutrophil aggregation, like platelet aggregation, is modulated by intracellular prostaglandins and other products of arachidonic acid metabolism.", "PMID": 441431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5231", "title": "Synthesis of the sultam analog of 11-deoxy PGE2.", "content": "As an extension of our work on the series of N-alkylmethanesulfonamidoheptanoic acids, we have prepared the cyclic-sulfonamide (sultam) analog of 11-deoxy PGE2. Although numerous publications have described the introduction of heteroatoms into the 5-membered ring of the prostaglandins, the cyclic-sulfonamides have remained a heretofore unexplored class. The synthetic scheme for the preparation of this unique PG analog is presented in this paper.", "contents": "Synthesis of the sultam analog of 11-deoxy PGE2. As an extension of our work on the series of N-alkylmethanesulfonamidoheptanoic acids, we have prepared the cyclic-sulfonamide (sultam) analog of 11-deoxy PGE2. Although numerous publications have described the introduction of heteroatoms into the 5-membered ring of the prostaglandins, the cyclic-sulfonamides have remained a heretofore unexplored class. The synthetic scheme for the preparation of this unique PG analog is presented in this paper.", "PMID": 441432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5232", "title": "Effects of prostaglandin E1 and indomethacin on fetal and neonatal lamb mesenteric artery responses to norepinephrine.", "content": "The effects of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and indomethacin on isolated fetal and neonatal lamb mesenteric artery responses to norepinephrine were investigated. PGE1 (1.5 micrometer) significantly reduced vasoconstriction responses to 0.5 to 5 micrometer norepinephrine. Indomethacin (1 micrometer) markedly potentiated the constrictor effects of 0.5 to 10 micrometer norepinephrine. PGE1 prevented the potentiating effect of indomethacin. Neither PGE1 nor indomethacin altered basal muscle tension. These results suggest that endogenous PGs modify adrenergic responses in the isolated mesenteric arteries of preterm and newborn lambs.", "contents": "Effects of prostaglandin E1 and indomethacin on fetal and neonatal lamb mesenteric artery responses to norepinephrine. The effects of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and indomethacin on isolated fetal and neonatal lamb mesenteric artery responses to norepinephrine were investigated. PGE1 (1.5 micrometer) significantly reduced vasoconstriction responses to 0.5 to 5 micrometer norepinephrine. Indomethacin (1 micrometer) markedly potentiated the constrictor effects of 0.5 to 10 micrometer norepinephrine. PGE1 prevented the potentiating effect of indomethacin. Neither PGE1 nor indomethacin altered basal muscle tension. These results suggest that endogenous PGs modify adrenergic responses in the isolated mesenteric arteries of preterm and newborn lambs.", "PMID": 441433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5233", "title": "The 8-isoprostaglandins: evidence for eight compounds in human semen.", "content": "Evidence is presented for the existence of a group of 8-iso prostaglandins in human semen, comprising 8-iso PG E1, 8-iso PG E2, 8-iso PG F1 alpha, 8-iso PG F2 alpha and the four corresponding 19-hydroxy prostaglandins. The E and F compounds have been positively identified by comparison of their mass spectra and chromatographic properties with those of authentic standards. Preliminary measurements of levels of these compounds in pooled semen are presented.", "contents": "The 8-isoprostaglandins: evidence for eight compounds in human semen. Evidence is presented for the existence of a group of 8-iso prostaglandins in human semen, comprising 8-iso PG E1, 8-iso PG E2, 8-iso PG F1 alpha, 8-iso PG F2 alpha and the four corresponding 19-hydroxy prostaglandins. The E and F compounds have been positively identified by comparison of their mass spectra and chromatographic properties with those of authentic standards. Preliminary measurements of levels of these compounds in pooled semen are presented.", "PMID": 441435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5234", "title": "On the mechanism of action of 15-methyl-PGF2 alpha as an abortifacient.", "content": "Several hours following administration of long acting vaginal suppositories containing 3.0 mg of 15-methyl-PGF2 alpha for interruption of second trimester pregnancies there is an up to 10-fold increase in endogenous production of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha before abortion as reflected by gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric determination of the major plasma metabolites of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha. The data suggest that this increased formation of endogenous prostaglandins contributes to the induced uterine activity during the latter part of the abortion process.", "contents": "On the mechanism of action of 15-methyl-PGF2 alpha as an abortifacient. Several hours following administration of long acting vaginal suppositories containing 3.0 mg of 15-methyl-PGF2 alpha for interruption of second trimester pregnancies there is an up to 10-fold increase in endogenous production of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha before abortion as reflected by gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric determination of the major plasma metabolites of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha. The data suggest that this increased formation of endogenous prostaglandins contributes to the induced uterine activity during the latter part of the abortion process.", "PMID": 441436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5235", "title": "The mechanism of prostaglandin action on the pregnant human uterus.", "content": "The concentrations of 15 methyl PGF2 alpha, progesterone and estradiol in the peripheral plasma were assayed sequentially and the resting and active pressures of the uterus were quantitated in 10 first trimester pregnant patients, treated with a vaginal suppository containing 3 mg U-36,384. The purpose of the study was to determine the sequence of the prostaglandin induced changes in regulatory profile and uterine function and thus expose further the mechanism of prostaglandin action. The temporal relationships of the changes revealed that the primary action of exogenous prostaglandin is the disruption of the normal endocrine function of the conceptus and that the delayed oxytocic effect of this compound is secondary, a consequence of the primary action. Apparently prostaglandins are only effective as postconceptional agents if they convert the refractory normal pregnant uterus into a reactive organ. The academic and therapeutic significance of this finding is discussed.", "contents": "The mechanism of prostaglandin action on the pregnant human uterus. The concentrations of 15 methyl PGF2 alpha, progesterone and estradiol in the peripheral plasma were assayed sequentially and the resting and active pressures of the uterus were quantitated in 10 first trimester pregnant patients, treated with a vaginal suppository containing 3 mg U-36,384. The purpose of the study was to determine the sequence of the prostaglandin induced changes in regulatory profile and uterine function and thus expose further the mechanism of prostaglandin action. The temporal relationships of the changes revealed that the primary action of exogenous prostaglandin is the disruption of the normal endocrine function of the conceptus and that the delayed oxytocic effect of this compound is secondary, a consequence of the primary action. Apparently prostaglandins are only effective as postconceptional agents if they convert the refractory normal pregnant uterus into a reactive organ. The academic and therapeutic significance of this finding is discussed.", "PMID": 441437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5236", "title": "Luteolytic prostaglandins. Synthesis and biological activity.", "content": "Analogues of PGF2 alpha with enhanced luteolytic activity were synthesized using the Corey synthesis. The luteolytic activity of the new prostaglandins was tested in the hamster. In addition the smooth muscle activity of the new compounds was compared with that of PGA2 on the longitudinal strip of rat stomach fundus. Structure-activity relationships in the new series of 17,18,19,20-tetranor-16-thienyl-oxy-PGF2 alpha are discussed.", "contents": "Luteolytic prostaglandins. Synthesis and biological activity. Analogues of PGF2 alpha with enhanced luteolytic activity were synthesized using the Corey synthesis. The luteolytic activity of the new prostaglandins was tested in the hamster. In addition the smooth muscle activity of the new compounds was compared with that of PGA2 on the longitudinal strip of rat stomach fundus. Structure-activity relationships in the new series of 17,18,19,20-tetranor-16-thienyl-oxy-PGF2 alpha are discussed.", "PMID": 441438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5237", "title": "Neutron activation analysis of selenium and 17 elements in sediment.", "content": "Instrumental neutron activation analysis was performed to determine Na, Mg, Al, Cl, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Rb, Sb, Cs, Ba, Ce and Eu in the Pacific core sediment. Selenium was also determined by neutron activation analysis, by applying a solvent extraction method with 2,3-diaminonaphthalene (DAN) as a post-irradiation procedure, after the wet-ashing of the sediment. Homogeneity of trace constituents in the sediment and neutron flux corrections for accurate determination were also investigated.", "contents": "Neutron activation analysis of selenium and 17 elements in sediment. Instrumental neutron activation analysis was performed to determine Na, Mg, Al, Cl, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Rb, Sb, Cs, Ba, Ce and Eu in the Pacific core sediment. Selenium was also determined by neutron activation analysis, by applying a solvent extraction method with 2,3-diaminonaphthalene (DAN) as a post-irradiation procedure, after the wet-ashing of the sediment. Homogeneity of trace constituents in the sediment and neutron flux corrections for accurate determination were also investigated.", "PMID": 441440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5238", "title": "Clinical evaluation of thyroid imaging with 201T1-chloride.", "content": "Clinical value and limitation of thyroid imaging with 201T1Cl were studied. The positive rate of 201T1 was 82% in 22 malignant thyroid lesions and 46% in 37 benign lesions. A 201T1 positive image was obtained when a lesion was parenchymatous and a 201T1 negative one when it was cystic, filled with colloid or hyaline and had massive necrosis or bleeding. Thus 201T1Cl localized in a parenchymatous lesion and did not in a nonparenchymatous one regardless of a malignant or benign disease. An increasing positive lesion in contrast with the surrounding thyroid tissue implies that it may be malignant and a decreasing one benign as a results of review of serial scintiphotos. Scintigraphic methods with 131I and 201T1 are complementary each other and a 201T1 negative image itself has a high diagnostic value but it seems to be better to attach much value to the finding of imaging with 131I when a 201T1 positive image is obtained.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation of thyroid imaging with 201T1-chloride. Clinical value and limitation of thyroid imaging with 201T1Cl were studied. The positive rate of 201T1 was 82% in 22 malignant thyroid lesions and 46% in 37 benign lesions. A 201T1 positive image was obtained when a lesion was parenchymatous and a 201T1 negative one when it was cystic, filled with colloid or hyaline and had massive necrosis or bleeding. Thus 201T1Cl localized in a parenchymatous lesion and did not in a nonparenchymatous one regardless of a malignant or benign disease. An increasing positive lesion in contrast with the surrounding thyroid tissue implies that it may be malignant and a decreasing one benign as a results of review of serial scintiphotos. Scintigraphic methods with 131I and 201T1 are complementary each other and a 201T1 negative image itself has a high diagnostic value but it seems to be better to attach much value to the finding of imaging with 131I when a 201T1 positive image is obtained.", "PMID": 441442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5239", "title": "[Coprecipitation of rare earth elements with hydroxyapatite (author's transl)].", "content": "The distribution behavior of trace rare earth elements between an aqueous phase and hydroxyapatite crystals was investigated. The apatite prepared by adding phosphate ion extremely slowly to an aqueous solution containing calcium, rare earth elements, ethylenediamine and nitrilotriacetate ion at 80 degrees C. Apparently the coprecipitation reaction seems to be anomalous, because the apparent distribution coefficient did not have a constant value through the reaction. But when the true distribution coefficient was calculated by using the thermodynamic data at 80 degrees C, it was revealed that rare earth ions were coprecipitated obeying logarithmic distribution law. The true distribution coefficient values of tervalent yttrium, scandium, europium and cerium ions were about 10(7.3), 10(9.8), 10(7.4) and 10(6.5), respectively.", "contents": "[Coprecipitation of rare earth elements with hydroxyapatite (author's transl)]. The distribution behavior of trace rare earth elements between an aqueous phase and hydroxyapatite crystals was investigated. The apatite prepared by adding phosphate ion extremely slowly to an aqueous solution containing calcium, rare earth elements, ethylenediamine and nitrilotriacetate ion at 80 degrees C. Apparently the coprecipitation reaction seems to be anomalous, because the apparent distribution coefficient did not have a constant value through the reaction. But when the true distribution coefficient was calculated by using the thermodynamic data at 80 degrees C, it was revealed that rare earth ions were coprecipitated obeying logarithmic distribution law. The true distribution coefficient values of tervalent yttrium, scandium, europium and cerium ions were about 10(7.3), 10(9.8), 10(7.4) and 10(6.5), respectively.", "PMID": 441450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5240", "title": "Role of the hypophysis in thyroid regeneration after partial thyroidectomy.", "content": "The role of the hypophysis in thyroid regeneration was investigated by measuring the mitotic activity of the thyroid remnant in hemithyroidectomized rats as well as the blood levels of thyroid hormone at various time-intervals after hemithyroidectomy. Mitotic activity underwent a significant increase to reach a peak (a 5- to 8- fold increase) 2 days after hemithyroidectomy. The thyroid hormone level in blood was lower than in controls. Histologically, the thyroid gland showed signs of an elevated rate of functional activity, as indicated by losses of colloid and cell hypertrophy. In a second approach, the mitotic activity of the thyroid remnant was estimated in hypophysectomized and in thyroxine treated rats. Both hypophysectomy and thyroxine injection prevented occurrence of the mitotic peak at 2 days. The regeneration of the thyroid after hemithyroidectomy, as it occurred in the present work, may be explained by a release of thyroid stimulating hormone from the pituitary, brought about by the low level of circulating thyroid hormone, itself resulting from a loss of thyroid tissue.", "contents": "Role of the hypophysis in thyroid regeneration after partial thyroidectomy. The role of the hypophysis in thyroid regeneration was investigated by measuring the mitotic activity of the thyroid remnant in hemithyroidectomized rats as well as the blood levels of thyroid hormone at various time-intervals after hemithyroidectomy. Mitotic activity underwent a significant increase to reach a peak (a 5- to 8- fold increase) 2 days after hemithyroidectomy. The thyroid hormone level in blood was lower than in controls. Histologically, the thyroid gland showed signs of an elevated rate of functional activity, as indicated by losses of colloid and cell hypertrophy. In a second approach, the mitotic activity of the thyroid remnant was estimated in hypophysectomized and in thyroxine treated rats. Both hypophysectomy and thyroxine injection prevented occurrence of the mitotic peak at 2 days. The regeneration of the thyroid after hemithyroidectomy, as it occurred in the present work, may be explained by a release of thyroid stimulating hormone from the pituitary, brought about by the low level of circulating thyroid hormone, itself resulting from a loss of thyroid tissue.", "PMID": 441451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5241", "title": "[Relationship between anatomical structure and metabolism of plant tissues. I. Differences between the qualitative and quantitative composition of phenolic substances of apple explants and that of callus and cells produced by the culture].", "content": "Relationship between anatomical structure and metabolism of plant tissues. I. Differences between the qualitative and quantitative composition of phenolic substances of apple-fruit explants and that of calli and cells cultured from these explants. Phenolic compounds of intact apple-fruits (CV. Golden delicious), fruit fragments cultured on agar medium, newly formed calli and cell suspensions prepared from these calli, were studied quantitatively and qualitatively. The phenol content of the tissues decreased during the first days of culture, then recovered practically the initial level just before the initiating calli became visible. This content is very low in the calli and in the cultured cells. But the most remarkable result is that the qualitative compositions of the phenols extracted from the fruit tissues, the calli and the cells were different : p-coumaryglucose, which is abundant in the fruit, disappeared almost completely in the calli, in which three compounds were formed de novo, X1 which was tentatively identified as ferulylquinic acid, X2, a glycoside of p-coumaric acid different from p-coumarylglucose, and X3 not yet identified; the cells synthesized also X1 and X3 but not X2, and contained no p-coumaryglucose while feruylquinic acid was abundant. The study on the processes of induction or regulation of the enzymes implied in these metabolic modifications is under way.", "contents": "[Relationship between anatomical structure and metabolism of plant tissues. I. Differences between the qualitative and quantitative composition of phenolic substances of apple explants and that of callus and cells produced by the culture]. Relationship between anatomical structure and metabolism of plant tissues. I. Differences between the qualitative and quantitative composition of phenolic substances of apple-fruit explants and that of calli and cells cultured from these explants. Phenolic compounds of intact apple-fruits (CV. Golden delicious), fruit fragments cultured on agar medium, newly formed calli and cell suspensions prepared from these calli, were studied quantitatively and qualitatively. The phenol content of the tissues decreased during the first days of culture, then recovered practically the initial level just before the initiating calli became visible. This content is very low in the calli and in the cultured cells. But the most remarkable result is that the qualitative compositions of the phenols extracted from the fruit tissues, the calli and the cells were different : p-coumaryglucose, which is abundant in the fruit, disappeared almost completely in the calli, in which three compounds were formed de novo, X1 which was tentatively identified as ferulylquinic acid, X2, a glycoside of p-coumaric acid different from p-coumarylglucose, and X3 not yet identified; the cells synthesized also X1 and X3 but not X2, and contained no p-coumaryglucose while feruylquinic acid was abundant. The study on the processes of induction or regulation of the enzymes implied in these metabolic modifications is under way.", "PMID": 441452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5242", "title": "The effect of luminance upon the distribution and behavior of the Eleotrid fish Gobiomorus dormitor, and its prey.", "content": "Gobiomorus dormitor success in capturing prey, cichlids, poeciliids and atherinids, is correlated with low luminance. Both prey and predator populations inhabiting rocky areas in Lake Jiloa, Nicaragua shift to deeper water during the dry season when luminance is greater. Predator and prey populations are also deeper over bright sandy areas than over rocks. Predators, during the middle of the day, attack prey significantly less in water above 3 m than in water between 3-12 m, but there is a significant increase in the number of attacks occurring above 3 m at twilight. The predator becomes more active, and the prey disappear into holes at twilight. These data suggest that conclusions concerning the importance of light in structuring the community and behavior of marine fishes can be generalized to tropical freshwater systems.", "contents": "The effect of luminance upon the distribution and behavior of the Eleotrid fish Gobiomorus dormitor, and its prey. Gobiomorus dormitor success in capturing prey, cichlids, poeciliids and atherinids, is correlated with low luminance. Both prey and predator populations inhabiting rocky areas in Lake Jiloa, Nicaragua shift to deeper water during the dry season when luminance is greater. Predator and prey populations are also deeper over bright sandy areas than over rocks. Predators, during the middle of the day, attack prey significantly less in water above 3 m than in water between 3-12 m, but there is a significant increase in the number of attacks occurring above 3 m at twilight. The predator becomes more active, and the prey disappear into holes at twilight. These data suggest that conclusions concerning the importance of light in structuring the community and behavior of marine fishes can be generalized to tropical freshwater systems.", "PMID": 441453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5243", "title": "Diel locomotor activity pattern of juvenile Limulus polyphemus Linnaeus.", "content": "Ten juvenile Limulus polyphemus, tested individually for 3-day periods in electronic shuttleboxes, exhibited a nocturnal activity pattern; activity was four times as great at Night as during the Day.", "contents": "Diel locomotor activity pattern of juvenile Limulus polyphemus Linnaeus. Ten juvenile Limulus polyphemus, tested individually for 3-day periods in electronic shuttleboxes, exhibited a nocturnal activity pattern; activity was four times as great at Night as during the Day.", "PMID": 441454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5244", "title": "Behavioral thermoregulation in the grass shrimp Palaemonetes vulgaris (Say).", "content": "Grass shrimp (Palaemonetes vulgaris) tested in a horizontal linear gradient trough exhibited a modal final thermal preferendum of 27 degrees C, and voluntarily occupied a 24-31 degrees C range.", "contents": "Behavioral thermoregulation in the grass shrimp Palaemonetes vulgaris (Say). Grass shrimp (Palaemonetes vulgaris) tested in a horizontal linear gradient trough exhibited a modal final thermal preferendum of 27 degrees C, and voluntarily occupied a 24-31 degrees C range.", "PMID": 441455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5245", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the mid-intestine muscle of the larva of Calliphora erythrocephala Meig].", "content": "The fine structure of the mid-gut muscle in larval Calliphora Erythrocephala Meig. Electron microscopy reveals and mid-gut muscle fibres to be composed of an array of actin and myosin myofilaments. The perforated Z-band divides the fibril to sarcomeres. The average length of the sarcomere in 5,34 micrometer for the non contracted muscle and 2,09 micrometer for the fully contracted muscle. The thick filaments of the fully contracted muscle pass through the spaces of the Z-structures.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the mid-intestine muscle of the larva of Calliphora erythrocephala Meig]. The fine structure of the mid-gut muscle in larval Calliphora Erythrocephala Meig. Electron microscopy reveals and mid-gut muscle fibres to be composed of an array of actin and myosin myofilaments. The perforated Z-band divides the fibril to sarcomeres. The average length of the sarcomere in 5,34 micrometer for the non contracted muscle and 2,09 micrometer for the fully contracted muscle. The thick filaments of the fully contracted muscle pass through the spaces of the Z-structures.", "PMID": 441456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5246", "title": "Nylidrin: a potent anti-hypertensive agent in hypertensive rats.", "content": "Nylidrin HCl lowered the blood pressure and increased the heart rate of conscious, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), Goldblatt hypertensive rats, and DOCA hypertensive rates. In SHR, the minimum effective dose was 0.5 mg/kg, s.c. At that dose, the anti-hypertensive activity of nylidrin lasted more than 3 hours. Propranolol reversed both effects on blood pressure and heart rate by nylidrin, whereas atenolol, a specific cardiac beta 1 blocker, only blocked or reversed the tachycardia caused by nylidrin but did not block the anti-hypertensive effect of the compound. In normotensive rats of Wistar/Kyoto strain (WKY) and Holtzman strain, nylidrin at 5 or 10 mg/kg, s.c., produced a transient hypotensive effect which lasted less than an hour and tachycardia that persisted for several hours. In WKY, atenolol prolonged the hypotensive activity of the compound by partially reversing the tachycardia. These observations indicate that SHR is more sensitive than WKY to the anti-hypertensive activity of nylidrin, which is probably caused by vasodilatation mediated by beta 2 receptors.", "contents": "Nylidrin: a potent anti-hypertensive agent in hypertensive rats. Nylidrin HCl lowered the blood pressure and increased the heart rate of conscious, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), Goldblatt hypertensive rats, and DOCA hypertensive rates. In SHR, the minimum effective dose was 0.5 mg/kg, s.c. At that dose, the anti-hypertensive activity of nylidrin lasted more than 3 hours. Propranolol reversed both effects on blood pressure and heart rate by nylidrin, whereas atenolol, a specific cardiac beta 1 blocker, only blocked or reversed the tachycardia caused by nylidrin but did not block the anti-hypertensive effect of the compound. In normotensive rats of Wistar/Kyoto strain (WKY) and Holtzman strain, nylidrin at 5 or 10 mg/kg, s.c., produced a transient hypotensive effect which lasted less than an hour and tachycardia that persisted for several hours. In WKY, atenolol prolonged the hypotensive activity of the compound by partially reversing the tachycardia. These observations indicate that SHR is more sensitive than WKY to the anti-hypertensive activity of nylidrin, which is probably caused by vasodilatation mediated by beta 2 receptors.", "PMID": 441505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5247", "title": "Delayed sexual maturation in female C57BL/6J mice prenatally exposed to alcohol.", "content": "Prenatal exposure of mice to alcohol during days 5 to 11 of gestation resulted in delayed sexual maturation as measured by the time of vaginal opening. Data from some of these mice suggest that vaginal epithelial differentiation may also be altered.", "contents": "Delayed sexual maturation in female C57BL/6J mice prenatally exposed to alcohol. Prenatal exposure of mice to alcohol during days 5 to 11 of gestation resulted in delayed sexual maturation as measured by the time of vaginal opening. Data from some of these mice suggest that vaginal epithelial differentiation may also be altered.", "PMID": 441506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5248", "title": "Renal anomalies in mice prenatally exposed to ethanol.", "content": "The current observations confirm and extend earlier data demonstrating the deleterious effects of ethanol in the C57BL/6J mouse. Ethanol given to pregnant mice from gestation-day 5 to gestation-day 11 reduced the number of mice going to full term, decreased the number of pups per litter, and lowered the birthweight of the live pups. Prenatal exposure to ethanol also produced a high incidence of hydronephrosis in the offspring.", "contents": "Renal anomalies in mice prenatally exposed to ethanol. The current observations confirm and extend earlier data demonstrating the deleterious effects of ethanol in the C57BL/6J mouse. Ethanol given to pregnant mice from gestation-day 5 to gestation-day 11 reduced the number of mice going to full term, decreased the number of pups per litter, and lowered the birthweight of the live pups. Prenatal exposure to ethanol also produced a high incidence of hydronephrosis in the offspring.", "PMID": 441507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5249", "title": "Post mortem stability of catecholamines in discrete regions of rat brain.", "content": "Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-300 g) were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and left either at room temperature (21-23 degrees C) for periods of 1, 2, and 4 hours or in the refrigerator (4-5 degrees C) for periods of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24 hours. The brains were left in the intact animals in order to stimulate human autopsy materials. At the end of each period, the rat was decapitated and the brain removed and immediately dissected into the following regions: cerebral cortex, striatum, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum. The levels of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) in brain regions were determined fluorometrically. In animals kept at room temperature the level of NE decreased gradually with time reaching 61%, 76%, 68%, and 68% of control in the cerebral cortex, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum at 4 hours post mortem respectively. Striatal DA reached 61% of control at 2 hours and remained the same at 4 hours post mortem. The NE level declined at a slower rate in brain regions obtained from refrigerated animals, reaching 65%, 81%, 77%, and 77% of control in cerebral cortex, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum at 24 hours post mortem. Striatal DA reached 54% of control at 16 hours and showed no further decline at 54 hours post mortem. There was a significant post mortem decrease in NE and DA levels in all brain regions examined, however, the rate of this decline varied from region to region. The tissues obtained from refrigerated animals showed statistically less of a decline in amine levels.", "contents": "Post mortem stability of catecholamines in discrete regions of rat brain. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-300 g) were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and left either at room temperature (21-23 degrees C) for periods of 1, 2, and 4 hours or in the refrigerator (4-5 degrees C) for periods of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24 hours. The brains were left in the intact animals in order to stimulate human autopsy materials. At the end of each period, the rat was decapitated and the brain removed and immediately dissected into the following regions: cerebral cortex, striatum, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum. The levels of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) in brain regions were determined fluorometrically. In animals kept at room temperature the level of NE decreased gradually with time reaching 61%, 76%, 68%, and 68% of control in the cerebral cortex, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum at 4 hours post mortem respectively. Striatal DA reached 61% of control at 2 hours and remained the same at 4 hours post mortem. The NE level declined at a slower rate in brain regions obtained from refrigerated animals, reaching 65%, 81%, 77%, and 77% of control in cerebral cortex, midbrain, pons and medulla, and cerebellum at 24 hours post mortem. Striatal DA reached 54% of control at 16 hours and showed no further decline at 54 hours post mortem. There was a significant post mortem decrease in NE and DA levels in all brain regions examined, however, the rate of this decline varied from region to region. The tissues obtained from refrigerated animals showed statistically less of a decline in amine levels.", "PMID": 441508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5250", "title": "Increased serum erythropoietin activity in rats following intrarenal injection of nickel subsulfide.", "content": "To investigate the pathophysiologic mechanisms of nicekl-induced erythrocytosis, serum erythropoietin activities were measured in (a) pooled serum from rats at 2 wk after intrarenal injection of alpha Ni3S2 (5 mg/rat), and (b) pooled serum from control rats at 2 wk after intrarenal injection of sterile NaCl vehicle (0.4 ml/rat). A sensitive erythropoietin bioassay was employed, which entailed repetitive administration of test serums to post-hypoxic polycythemic mice in divided doses (12 s.c. injections of 0.5 ml of serum at 6 hr intervals for 3 da; total dose = 6 ml of serum/mouse). The erythropoietin detection limit was congruent to 20 I.U./liter of serum. In mice which received pooled serum from alpha Ni3S2-treated rats, erythrocyte 59Fe-uptake averaged 28% (S.D. +/- 5) (vs 3.7 +/- 1.1% in control rats; P less than 0.001). Based upon a 7-point calibration plot, the erythropoietin activity in pooled serum from alpha Ni3S2-treated rats averaged 130 I.U./liter (S.D. +/- 18) (vs 27 +/- 6 I.U./liter in control rats; P less than 0.001). In vitro addition of Ni(II) to rat serum (100 microgram/liter) had no effect upon serum erythropoietin activity. This study demonstrates that induction of erythrocytosis in rats by intrarenal injection of alpha Ni3S2 is mediated by increased serum erythropoietin activity.", "contents": "Increased serum erythropoietin activity in rats following intrarenal injection of nickel subsulfide. To investigate the pathophysiologic mechanisms of nicekl-induced erythrocytosis, serum erythropoietin activities were measured in (a) pooled serum from rats at 2 wk after intrarenal injection of alpha Ni3S2 (5 mg/rat), and (b) pooled serum from control rats at 2 wk after intrarenal injection of sterile NaCl vehicle (0.4 ml/rat). A sensitive erythropoietin bioassay was employed, which entailed repetitive administration of test serums to post-hypoxic polycythemic mice in divided doses (12 s.c. injections of 0.5 ml of serum at 6 hr intervals for 3 da; total dose = 6 ml of serum/mouse). The erythropoietin detection limit was congruent to 20 I.U./liter of serum. In mice which received pooled serum from alpha Ni3S2-treated rats, erythrocyte 59Fe-uptake averaged 28% (S.D. +/- 5) (vs 3.7 +/- 1.1% in control rats; P less than 0.001). Based upon a 7-point calibration plot, the erythropoietin activity in pooled serum from alpha Ni3S2-treated rats averaged 130 I.U./liter (S.D. +/- 18) (vs 27 +/- 6 I.U./liter in control rats; P less than 0.001). In vitro addition of Ni(II) to rat serum (100 microgram/liter) had no effect upon serum erythropoietin activity. This study demonstrates that induction of erythrocytosis in rats by intrarenal injection of alpha Ni3S2 is mediated by increased serum erythropoietin activity.", "PMID": 441509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5251", "title": "Amino acid conferred protection against melphalan: comparison of amino acids which reduce melphalan toxicity to murine bone marrow precursor cells (CFU-C) and murine L1210 leukemia cells.", "content": "The effect of the naturally occuring amino acids upon melphalan (L-phenylalanine mustard, L-PAM) toxicity to a host sensitive tissue, the granulocyte and macrophage precursor cells of murine bone marrow (CFU-C), was investigated. At physiological concentrations the L isomers of leucine and glutamine were found to be the most effective of the naturally occurring amino acids in reducing drug toxicity. Tyrosine, phenylalanine and methionine also protected murine CFU-C from melphalan toxicity although the amount of protection provided by these amino acids at physiological concentrations was less than that provided by leucine and glutamine. Little difference was observed in the pattern of amino acid protection of murine CFU-C and murine L1210 leukemia cells. Murine CFU-C however were more sensitive to melphalan both in the absence and presence of amino acids.", "contents": "Amino acid conferred protection against melphalan: comparison of amino acids which reduce melphalan toxicity to murine bone marrow precursor cells (CFU-C) and murine L1210 leukemia cells. The effect of the naturally occuring amino acids upon melphalan (L-phenylalanine mustard, L-PAM) toxicity to a host sensitive tissue, the granulocyte and macrophage precursor cells of murine bone marrow (CFU-C), was investigated. At physiological concentrations the L isomers of leucine and glutamine were found to be the most effective of the naturally occurring amino acids in reducing drug toxicity. Tyrosine, phenylalanine and methionine also protected murine CFU-C from melphalan toxicity although the amount of protection provided by these amino acids at physiological concentrations was less than that provided by leucine and glutamine. Little difference was observed in the pattern of amino acid protection of murine CFU-C and murine L1210 leukemia cells. Murine CFU-C however were more sensitive to melphalan both in the absence and presence of amino acids.", "PMID": 441510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5252", "title": "Influence of perfusion and mechanical activity of ornithine decarboxylase activity in the isolated rat heart.", "content": "A small, but not significant, decrease in ornithine decarboxylase activity occurred in isolated hearts during one hour of recirculating perfusion with Krebs-Henseleit solution. A significantly greater decrease occurred with a non-recirculating system. Ornithine decarboxylase activity was the same in the working heart preparation as in the non-working preparation. It is concluded that a substance, necessary for the maintenance of ornithine decarboxylase, is removed during perfusion. The nature of the mechanical activity of the heart did not appear to be a determining factor.", "contents": "Influence of perfusion and mechanical activity of ornithine decarboxylase activity in the isolated rat heart. A small, but not significant, decrease in ornithine decarboxylase activity occurred in isolated hearts during one hour of recirculating perfusion with Krebs-Henseleit solution. A significantly greater decrease occurred with a non-recirculating system. Ornithine decarboxylase activity was the same in the working heart preparation as in the non-working preparation. It is concluded that a substance, necessary for the maintenance of ornithine decarboxylase, is removed during perfusion. The nature of the mechanical activity of the heart did not appear to be a determining factor.", "PMID": 441511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5253", "title": "Prevention by coenzyme Q10 of the electrocardiographic changes induced by adriamycin in rats.", "content": "The administration of adriamycin (ADM) to rats has consistently caused a widening of the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram. When coenzyme Q10 was also administered, beginning two days before ADM, this widening of the QRS complex and the elongation of the Q-T interval were reduced or totally prevented, depending upon conditions. ADM alone or with coenzyme Q10 did not alter the P-R interval. Some control by coenzyme Q10 of the cardiotoxicity of adriamycin in cancer patients is promising.", "contents": "Prevention by coenzyme Q10 of the electrocardiographic changes induced by adriamycin in rats. The administration of adriamycin (ADM) to rats has consistently caused a widening of the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram. When coenzyme Q10 was also administered, beginning two days before ADM, this widening of the QRS complex and the elongation of the Q-T interval were reduced or totally prevented, depending upon conditions. ADM alone or with coenzyme Q10 did not alter the P-R interval. Some control by coenzyme Q10 of the cardiotoxicity of adriamycin in cancer patients is promising.", "PMID": 441512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5254", "title": "Comparative first dose effects of prazosin and tiodazosin (BL-5111) in spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "Prazosin produces a \"first-dose\" phenomenon in man clinically characterized by an exaggerated hypotensive response to the initial dose of the drug, with subsequent doses not producing this exaggerated effect. In spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), prazosin (1 mg kg po) produced a similar effect, appreciably reducing systolic blood pressure at 12 hours after the first dose but having little or no effect at 12 hours after the subsequent doses. In contrast, BL-5111, an antihypertensive agent similar in chemical structure and shown in previous studies to be slightly less potent than prazosin but with appreciably less alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist activity, had no effect on blood pressure at 12 hours after dosing (1 and 2 mg/kg po). Pretreatment of rats with an ineffective blood pressure lowering dose of prazosin (0.03 mg/kg po) significantly attenuated the first dose effect of prazosin, resembling the clinical observations seen in patients. Thus, the SHR may be a useful model for predicting the prazosin-like \"first-dose\" phenomenon with related analogs.", "contents": "Comparative first dose effects of prazosin and tiodazosin (BL-5111) in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Prazosin produces a \"first-dose\" phenomenon in man clinically characterized by an exaggerated hypotensive response to the initial dose of the drug, with subsequent doses not producing this exaggerated effect. In spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), prazosin (1 mg kg po) produced a similar effect, appreciably reducing systolic blood pressure at 12 hours after the first dose but having little or no effect at 12 hours after the subsequent doses. In contrast, BL-5111, an antihypertensive agent similar in chemical structure and shown in previous studies to be slightly less potent than prazosin but with appreciably less alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist activity, had no effect on blood pressure at 12 hours after dosing (1 and 2 mg/kg po). Pretreatment of rats with an ineffective blood pressure lowering dose of prazosin (0.03 mg/kg po) significantly attenuated the first dose effect of prazosin, resembling the clinical observations seen in patients. Thus, the SHR may be a useful model for predicting the prazosin-like \"first-dose\" phenomenon with related analogs.", "PMID": 441514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5255", "title": "Effects of clenbuterol on bronchial, cardiac and hypothalamic adenylate cyclase.", "content": "Present experiments have shown that clenbuterol produces (at the bronchial level) powerful stimulation of adenylate cyclase. This effect is due to a specific stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors.", "contents": "Effects of clenbuterol on bronchial, cardiac and hypothalamic adenylate cyclase. Present experiments have shown that clenbuterol produces (at the bronchial level) powerful stimulation of adenylate cyclase. This effect is due to a specific stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors.", "PMID": 441515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5256", "title": "Morphine as a discriminative stimulus: role of periaqueductal gray neurons.", "content": "The present study investigated the degree of involvement of the periaqueductal gray (PAG) in the mediation of the discriminative stimulus (DS) effects of morphine sulfate (MS). Eleven rats were trained to discriminate MS (3 mg/kg; s.c.) from saline (1 ml/kg; s.c.) using a two-bar operant procedure. After the rats learned the discrimination to the criterion of 80% correct responding, cannulae were unilaterally implanted into the PAG. Intracerebral (i.c.) injection of MS (1 microliter) into the PAG produced stimulus control similar to that observed following systemic MS. Doses of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 microgram elicited MS-correct responding of 27, 57, 63 and 77% respectively. The highest intraPAG MS dose elicited significantly more MS correct responding than did either systemic or the i.c. injection of saline, while not differing from systemically-administered MS. These results suggest that the PAG may at least be partially responsible for the generation of morphine's DS effect when administered s.c.", "contents": "Morphine as a discriminative stimulus: role of periaqueductal gray neurons. The present study investigated the degree of involvement of the periaqueductal gray (PAG) in the mediation of the discriminative stimulus (DS) effects of morphine sulfate (MS). Eleven rats were trained to discriminate MS (3 mg/kg; s.c.) from saline (1 ml/kg; s.c.) using a two-bar operant procedure. After the rats learned the discrimination to the criterion of 80% correct responding, cannulae were unilaterally implanted into the PAG. Intracerebral (i.c.) injection of MS (1 microliter) into the PAG produced stimulus control similar to that observed following systemic MS. Doses of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 microgram elicited MS-correct responding of 27, 57, 63 and 77% respectively. The highest intraPAG MS dose elicited significantly more MS correct responding than did either systemic or the i.c. injection of saline, while not differing from systemically-administered MS. These results suggest that the PAG may at least be partially responsible for the generation of morphine's DS effect when administered s.c.", "PMID": 441516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5257", "title": "Antagonism of cisplatin induced emesis in the dog.", "content": "Cisplatin (cis-diammine-dichloro-platinum) administered at a dose of 3 mg/kg iv induced a reproducible and characteristic emetic response in the dog. It was characterized by a latency period (90-120 min) and multiple emetic episodes occuring within 5 hours following drug administration with sporadic delayed emesis later within the first 24 hours. There was a qualitative similarity between the emetic response of Cisplatin seen in dogs and cancer patients. Metoclopramide (1, 3 mg/kg sc) was found to be the most effective antagonsit of Cisplatin emesis in the dog while haloperidol (1 mg/kg sc) and chlorpromazine (0.3, 1, 3 mg/kg sc) offered a less complete protection. Nabilone (0.1 mg/kg iv) and AL-1612 (1 mg/kg sc) failed to to demonstrate any significant activity. A relationship between antagonism patterns of emetic responses induced by Cisplatin and apomorphine was discussed.", "contents": "Antagonism of cisplatin induced emesis in the dog. Cisplatin (cis-diammine-dichloro-platinum) administered at a dose of 3 mg/kg iv induced a reproducible and characteristic emetic response in the dog. It was characterized by a latency period (90-120 min) and multiple emetic episodes occuring within 5 hours following drug administration with sporadic delayed emesis later within the first 24 hours. There was a qualitative similarity between the emetic response of Cisplatin seen in dogs and cancer patients. Metoclopramide (1, 3 mg/kg sc) was found to be the most effective antagonsit of Cisplatin emesis in the dog while haloperidol (1 mg/kg sc) and chlorpromazine (0.3, 1, 3 mg/kg sc) offered a less complete protection. Nabilone (0.1 mg/kg iv) and AL-1612 (1 mg/kg sc) failed to to demonstrate any significant activity. A relationship between antagonism patterns of emetic responses induced by Cisplatin and apomorphine was discussed.", "PMID": 441517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5258", "title": "Dantrolene inhibition of the hepatic mixed function oxidase system.", "content": "The effect of dantrolene sodium, a skeletal muscle relaxant, on the hepatic MFO system has been investigated. The dantrolene produces a dose related inhibition of the system. Single doses of 100 mg/kg and accumulative doses up to 125 mg/kg prolong pentobarbital sleeping time and decrease the rate of aminopyrine N-demethylation without altering cytochrome P450 content. However, single doses of 400 mg/kg and accumulative doses of 500 mg/kg do cause a decrease in cytochrome P450 content as part of the dantrolene induced inhibition of the hepatic MFO system.", "contents": "Dantrolene inhibition of the hepatic mixed function oxidase system. The effect of dantrolene sodium, a skeletal muscle relaxant, on the hepatic MFO system has been investigated. The dantrolene produces a dose related inhibition of the system. Single doses of 100 mg/kg and accumulative doses up to 125 mg/kg prolong pentobarbital sleeping time and decrease the rate of aminopyrine N-demethylation without altering cytochrome P450 content. However, single doses of 400 mg/kg and accumulative doses of 500 mg/kg do cause a decrease in cytochrome P450 content as part of the dantrolene induced inhibition of the hepatic MFO system.", "PMID": 441518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5259", "title": "Antagonistic effects of prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase.", "content": "Both prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid markedly reduce 3',5'-cyclic AMP-accumulation and lipolysis in adipose tissue. These effects were assumed to be mediated via inhibition of the fat cell adenylate cyclase. Therefore, the effects of prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase were compared. Prostaglandin E1 caused a dose-dependent stimulation of the enzyme, whereas nicotinic acid was found to act as an unspecific inhibitor depressing all expressions of enzyme activity including prostaglandin E1-stimulated rates of 3',5'-cyclic AMP formation. It is concluded that the common metabolic effects of nicotinic acid and prostaglandin E1 are unlikely to be mediated via the membrane-bound adenylate cyclase in human adipose tissue.", "contents": "Antagonistic effects of prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase. Both prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid markedly reduce 3',5'-cyclic AMP-accumulation and lipolysis in adipose tissue. These effects were assumed to be mediated via inhibition of the fat cell adenylate cyclase. Therefore, the effects of prostaglandin E1 and nicotinic acid on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase were compared. Prostaglandin E1 caused a dose-dependent stimulation of the enzyme, whereas nicotinic acid was found to act as an unspecific inhibitor depressing all expressions of enzyme activity including prostaglandin E1-stimulated rates of 3',5'-cyclic AMP formation. It is concluded that the common metabolic effects of nicotinic acid and prostaglandin E1 are unlikely to be mediated via the membrane-bound adenylate cyclase in human adipose tissue.", "PMID": 441519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5260", "title": "Antagonism of prostaglandin E1 and E2 fever by catecholamines.", "content": "Antagonism of PGE1 and PGE2 fever by catecholamines in adult fowls was studied by infusing these substances into the brain. PGE1 and PGE2, given into the third cerebral ventricle or into the hypothalamus, produced an immediate, intense and long-lasting increase in body temperature. Noradrenaline and alpha-methylnoradrenaline infused into the hypothalamus or into the third cerebral ventricle during the fever peak were able to antagonize it and to revert the hyperthermic effect into an hypothermic effect. The possible modes of action of PG's and relations with catecholaminergic neurons in the hypothalamus are discussed.", "contents": "Antagonism of prostaglandin E1 and E2 fever by catecholamines. Antagonism of PGE1 and PGE2 fever by catecholamines in adult fowls was studied by infusing these substances into the brain. PGE1 and PGE2, given into the third cerebral ventricle or into the hypothalamus, produced an immediate, intense and long-lasting increase in body temperature. Noradrenaline and alpha-methylnoradrenaline infused into the hypothalamus or into the third cerebral ventricle during the fever peak were able to antagonize it and to revert the hyperthermic effect into an hypothermic effect. The possible modes of action of PG's and relations with catecholaminergic neurons in the hypothalamus are discussed.", "PMID": 441520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5261", "title": "Neurochemical effects of peroral administration of technical pentachlorophenol.", "content": "Administration of technical pentachlorophenol in drinking water (20 mg/l) to male Wistar rats caused significant liver concentration of tetrachlorophenol which remained stable during the exposure of 14 weeks. Pentachlorophenol and tetrachlorophenol accumulated to some extent in the perirenal fat whereas only pentachlorophenol could be found in brain. A period of four weeks of chlorophenol-free diet was sufficiently long to allow removal of the major part of the chlorophenol burden. The neurochemical effects included increased acid proteinase activity at the 8th week of exposure. It levelled off while superoxide dismutase activity increased to twice the control level. Glial glutathione peroxidase activity did not change whereas glial glutathione concentration was below the control range at the 12th week of exposure. Cerebral diaphorase activity was below the control range initially, and its activity increased above the control level during the recovery period whereas other biochemical changes levelled off.", "contents": "Neurochemical effects of peroral administration of technical pentachlorophenol. Administration of technical pentachlorophenol in drinking water (20 mg/l) to male Wistar rats caused significant liver concentration of tetrachlorophenol which remained stable during the exposure of 14 weeks. Pentachlorophenol and tetrachlorophenol accumulated to some extent in the perirenal fat whereas only pentachlorophenol could be found in brain. A period of four weeks of chlorophenol-free diet was sufficiently long to allow removal of the major part of the chlorophenol burden. The neurochemical effects included increased acid proteinase activity at the 8th week of exposure. It levelled off while superoxide dismutase activity increased to twice the control level. Glial glutathione peroxidase activity did not change whereas glial glutathione concentration was below the control range at the 12th week of exposure. Cerebral diaphorase activity was below the control range initially, and its activity increased above the control level during the recovery period whereas other biochemical changes levelled off.", "PMID": 441521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5262", "title": "Inhibition of human intestinal alpha-glucosidehydrolases by a new complex oligosaccharide.", "content": "The effect of a new complex oligosaccharide (Bay g 5421) of microbial origin on human intestinal alpha-glucosidehydrolase activity was tested in mucosal homogenate from human small bowel biopsy specimens. The alpha-glucosidehydrolase inhibitor (alpha-GHI) exerted a potent inhibitory effect on glucoamylase, sucrase, and maltase, was minimally effective on isomaltase, and did not affect trehalase and lactase activity. Kinetic analysis revealed a fully competitive type of inhibition with a Ki of 1.3 x 10(-6) M; thus the inhibitor had a 15,000-fold higher affinity to the enzyme sucrase than its natural substrate sucrose. The new compound may prove to be useful in the study of carbohydrate maldigestion and malabsorption and may possibly be of therapeutic benefit in diabetes and obesity.", "contents": "Inhibition of human intestinal alpha-glucosidehydrolases by a new complex oligosaccharide. The effect of a new complex oligosaccharide (Bay g 5421) of microbial origin on human intestinal alpha-glucosidehydrolase activity was tested in mucosal homogenate from human small bowel biopsy specimens. The alpha-glucosidehydrolase inhibitor (alpha-GHI) exerted a potent inhibitory effect on glucoamylase, sucrase, and maltase, was minimally effective on isomaltase, and did not affect trehalase and lactase activity. Kinetic analysis revealed a fully competitive type of inhibition with a Ki of 1.3 x 10(-6) M; thus the inhibitor had a 15,000-fold higher affinity to the enzyme sucrase than its natural substrate sucrose. The new compound may prove to be useful in the study of carbohydrate maldigestion and malabsorption and may possibly be of therapeutic benefit in diabetes and obesity.", "PMID": 441522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5263", "title": "Proximal and distal intestinal calcium transport in vitro as influenced by low calcium diet, uremia, parathyroidectomy and 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol treatment in rats.", "content": "Duodenal and ileal in vitro calcium transport was studied in 5/6 nephrectomized rats. Low calcium diet resulted in an increase of the duodenal calcium transport in kidney intact control animals but not in uremic rats; the ileal transport however increased in controls as well as in uremic rats. Parathyroidectomy decreased this adaptive transport at both gut sites in intact and uremic rats. Supplementation with low doses of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) restored the duodenal transport in nephrectomized rats to the level of controls; nephrectomized plus parathyroidectomized animals increased the duodenal but not the ileal calcium transport. A close correlation between calcium transport and serum phosphorus concentrations of all groups of rats studied points towards a possible role of phosphate for intestinal calcium transport. It is concluded that duodenal calcium transport is regulated by the parathyroid-1,25-DHCC axis with 1,25-DHCC as effector; ileal calcium transport in contrast is regulated by combined direct effects of 1,25-DHCC and parathyroid hormone, the latter being essential for active transport.", "contents": "Proximal and distal intestinal calcium transport in vitro as influenced by low calcium diet, uremia, parathyroidectomy and 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol treatment in rats. Duodenal and ileal in vitro calcium transport was studied in 5/6 nephrectomized rats. Low calcium diet resulted in an increase of the duodenal calcium transport in kidney intact control animals but not in uremic rats; the ileal transport however increased in controls as well as in uremic rats. Parathyroidectomy decreased this adaptive transport at both gut sites in intact and uremic rats. Supplementation with low doses of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) restored the duodenal transport in nephrectomized rats to the level of controls; nephrectomized plus parathyroidectomized animals increased the duodenal but not the ileal calcium transport. A close correlation between calcium transport and serum phosphorus concentrations of all groups of rats studied points towards a possible role of phosphate for intestinal calcium transport. It is concluded that duodenal calcium transport is regulated by the parathyroid-1,25-DHCC axis with 1,25-DHCC as effector; ileal calcium transport in contrast is regulated by combined direct effects of 1,25-DHCC and parathyroid hormone, the latter being essential for active transport.", "PMID": 441523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5264", "title": "[The effect of unconjugated bile salts on the intestinal absorption of electrolytes and water in the proximal jejunum. Studies in conscious rats (author's transl)].", "content": "With an in vivo-perfusion-technique the influence of unconjugated bile salts (cholate, desoxycholate) on the net electrolyte and volume absorption is studied in the jejunum of conscious rats. The applied doses correspond to physiological concentrations in the intestine of rats. Control experiments were performed in the same animal. Cholate and desoxycholate diminish the net electrolyte and volume absorption resp. cause a net secretion. The effects are largely reversible. The extent of net volume absorption depends on the applied dose of each bile salt. The possible mode of action of unconjugated bile salts on the electrolyte and water absorption in the small intestine is discussed.", "contents": "[The effect of unconjugated bile salts on the intestinal absorption of electrolytes and water in the proximal jejunum. Studies in conscious rats (author's transl)]. With an in vivo-perfusion-technique the influence of unconjugated bile salts (cholate, desoxycholate) on the net electrolyte and volume absorption is studied in the jejunum of conscious rats. The applied doses correspond to physiological concentrations in the intestine of rats. Control experiments were performed in the same animal. Cholate and desoxycholate diminish the net electrolyte and volume absorption resp. cause a net secretion. The effects are largely reversible. The extent of net volume absorption depends on the applied dose of each bile salt. The possible mode of action of unconjugated bile salts on the electrolyte and water absorption in the small intestine is discussed.", "PMID": 441524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5265", "title": "The effect of normovolemic hemodilution on microvascular hemostasis in the rabbit.", "content": "Hemostatic plug formation has been studied in the rabbit mesenteric microcirculation during normovolemic hemodilution. A hemodilution method has been developed which maintains a constant platelet count. Using this method the primary hemostatic plug formation time (PHT) and the total hemostatic plug formation time (THT) has been assessed for different degrees of hemodilutions. Both PHT and THT are significantly prolonged for arterioles perfused with low hematocrits (10.6 and 14.2). At a hematocrit of 19.0 the hemostasis is most effective with the shortest hemostatic plug formation times.", "contents": "The effect of normovolemic hemodilution on microvascular hemostasis in the rabbit. Hemostatic plug formation has been studied in the rabbit mesenteric microcirculation during normovolemic hemodilution. A hemodilution method has been developed which maintains a constant platelet count. Using this method the primary hemostatic plug formation time (PHT) and the total hemostatic plug formation time (THT) has been assessed for different degrees of hemodilutions. Both PHT and THT are significantly prolonged for arterioles perfused with low hematocrits (10.6 and 14.2). At a hematocrit of 19.0 the hemostasis is most effective with the shortest hemostatic plug formation times.", "PMID": 441525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5266", "title": "Lymphocyte proliferation to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in hepatitis B antigen-positive and -negative hepatitis.", "content": "Lymphocytes from patients with HBs-Ag-positive and -negative acute, chronic-persistent, and chronic-active hepatitis, from healthy controls and from patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis were tested under standardized conditions. These included use of a single charge of Phytohemagglutinin (PHA-P) dissolved and diluted in one operation, of a single pool of homologous serum of the major blood group AB found free of HBs-Ag and cytotixic factor, and elaboration of PHA dose response curves in the presence of autologous and homologous serum in each case examined. During the early phase of acute virus hepatitis B and non-B, and in HBs-Ag-positive chronic persistent and active hepatitis, hyperresponsiveness of lymphocytes to PHA was observed independently of the source of the serum present in the culture. Lymphocyte responsiveness returned to normal in the later phase of acute hepatitis and depressed in alcoholic liver cirrhosis and in cases of HBs-Ag-positive chronic active hepatitis in which cirrhosis had developed. Although the cause of these alterations in lymphocyte responsiveness is not completely understood, the central role of a primary change of the lymphocytes themselves affecting their ability to react to PHA seems probable.", "contents": "Lymphocyte proliferation to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in hepatitis B antigen-positive and -negative hepatitis. Lymphocytes from patients with HBs-Ag-positive and -negative acute, chronic-persistent, and chronic-active hepatitis, from healthy controls and from patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis were tested under standardized conditions. These included use of a single charge of Phytohemagglutinin (PHA-P) dissolved and diluted in one operation, of a single pool of homologous serum of the major blood group AB found free of HBs-Ag and cytotixic factor, and elaboration of PHA dose response curves in the presence of autologous and homologous serum in each case examined. During the early phase of acute virus hepatitis B and non-B, and in HBs-Ag-positive chronic persistent and active hepatitis, hyperresponsiveness of lymphocytes to PHA was observed independently of the source of the serum present in the culture. Lymphocyte responsiveness returned to normal in the later phase of acute hepatitis and depressed in alcoholic liver cirrhosis and in cases of HBs-Ag-positive chronic active hepatitis in which cirrhosis had developed. Although the cause of these alterations in lymphocyte responsiveness is not completely understood, the central role of a primary change of the lymphocytes themselves affecting their ability to react to PHA seems probable.", "PMID": 441526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5267", "title": "Therapeutical influence of vagus blockade on antigen-induced airway obstruction.", "content": "The influence of bilateral vagus blockade on airway resistance induced by allergen exposure, while aerosol was given, was tested on 3 dogs. The therapeutic effect of vagus blockade could be demonstrated, which showed to be in a same degree as its prophylactic effect demonstrated in experiences before.", "contents": "Therapeutical influence of vagus blockade on antigen-induced airway obstruction. The influence of bilateral vagus blockade on airway resistance induced by allergen exposure, while aerosol was given, was tested on 3 dogs. The therapeutic effect of vagus blockade could be demonstrated, which showed to be in a same degree as its prophylactic effect demonstrated in experiences before.", "PMID": 441527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5268", "title": "[Computation of the average in- and expiratory airway resistance (author's transl)].", "content": "This paper extends the mathematical model of Jaeger and Otis to a separate computation of the mean airway resistance in the in- and expiratory phase. The extended method is illustrated and compared to known methods by means of data on 12 healthy subjects and 12 patients with obstructive airway diseases.", "contents": "[Computation of the average in- and expiratory airway resistance (author's transl)]. This paper extends the mathematical model of Jaeger and Otis to a separate computation of the mean airway resistance in the in- and expiratory phase. The extended method is illustrated and compared to known methods by means of data on 12 healthy subjects and 12 patients with obstructive airway diseases.", "PMID": 441528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5269", "title": "Resistance of airways in animals following tracheal plastic surgery.", "content": "A simple method for the evaluation of the tracheal lumens in rabbits following tracheal plastic surgery is described. The results are compared with those obtained by blood gas analysis and ray cinematography.", "contents": "Resistance of airways in animals following tracheal plastic surgery. A simple method for the evaluation of the tracheal lumens in rabbits following tracheal plastic surgery is described. The results are compared with those obtained by blood gas analysis and ray cinematography.", "PMID": 441529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5270", "title": "Bronchial aspirate alkaline phosphatase: a sensitive marker enzyme to evaluate bronchial cell damage.", "content": "A correlation between the number of bronchial cells and alkaline phosphatase levels in bronchial aspirates obtained from patients was demonstrated.", "contents": "Bronchial aspirate alkaline phosphatase: a sensitive marker enzyme to evaluate bronchial cell damage. A correlation between the number of bronchial cells and alkaline phosphatase levels in bronchial aspirates obtained from patients was demonstrated.", "PMID": 441530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5271", "title": "A comprehensive on-line computerised lung function screening test.", "content": "An on-line computerised lung function screening test is described which prints out 22 lung function parameters and a functional diagnosis. The complete test with print-out data takes less than 8 min per patient which implies that more than 60 out-patients can be 'screened' per day. Furthermore, for patients about to undergo major surgery a lung function operative risk grading is also available. The developed computer system is comparatively inexpensive, simple to operate and can be immediately on-lined to most apparatus without special interfacing. The total screening system can be operated by a single technologist and the required respiratory manoeuvres can be performed by almost all patients irrespective of the degree of lung function impairment. Although comprehensive in itself the screening test has been invaluable in deciding upon which patients require more intensive and time-consuming lung function investigations.", "contents": "A comprehensive on-line computerised lung function screening test. An on-line computerised lung function screening test is described which prints out 22 lung function parameters and a functional diagnosis. The complete test with print-out data takes less than 8 min per patient which implies that more than 60 out-patients can be 'screened' per day. Furthermore, for patients about to undergo major surgery a lung function operative risk grading is also available. The developed computer system is comparatively inexpensive, simple to operate and can be immediately on-lined to most apparatus without special interfacing. The total screening system can be operated by a single technologist and the required respiratory manoeuvres can be performed by almost all patients irrespective of the degree of lung function impairment. Although comprehensive in itself the screening test has been invaluable in deciding upon which patients require more intensive and time-consuming lung function investigations.", "PMID": 441531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5272", "title": "Tracheal contractility and flow resistance in anesthetized dogs with and without vagal block.", "content": "The study was carried out on 8 boxer dogs in three groups. They were anesthetized, intubated and breathed spontaneously. The animals were exposed to inhalative acetylcholine (ACH) aerosol, mechanical stimulus to the bronchial tree, intrabronchial and intravenous application of ACH solution. Dynamic elasticity, lung resistance, tracheal resistance and breathing rates were determined. A special method was used for recording tracheal activity in spontaneously breathing animals and noted as tracheal pressure. Those parameters were noted before and after partial blocking of the cervical vagus nerves on both sides. Bilateral vagal block entirely prevented the response produced by mechanical irritation and intrabronchial ACH. Inhalative and intravenous ACH produced significantly less response after vagal block, but certain residues remained. It is concluded that mechanical irritation works entirely through the reflex path, but ACH mostly follows the reflex path a little on the smooth muscle directly.", "contents": "Tracheal contractility and flow resistance in anesthetized dogs with and without vagal block. The study was carried out on 8 boxer dogs in three groups. They were anesthetized, intubated and breathed spontaneously. The animals were exposed to inhalative acetylcholine (ACH) aerosol, mechanical stimulus to the bronchial tree, intrabronchial and intravenous application of ACH solution. Dynamic elasticity, lung resistance, tracheal resistance and breathing rates were determined. A special method was used for recording tracheal activity in spontaneously breathing animals and noted as tracheal pressure. Those parameters were noted before and after partial blocking of the cervical vagus nerves on both sides. Bilateral vagal block entirely prevented the response produced by mechanical irritation and intrabronchial ACH. Inhalative and intravenous ACH produced significantly less response after vagal block, but certain residues remained. It is concluded that mechanical irritation works entirely through the reflex path, but ACH mostly follows the reflex path a little on the smooth muscle directly.", "PMID": 441532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5273", "title": "Effect of furosemide on altitude tolerance in experimental animals.", "content": "Furosemide which is claimed to prevent acute mountain sickness and pulmonary oedema of high altitude was tried in experimental animals to evaluate its usefulness or otherwise as a measure of prophylaxis. 90 mice, 128 rats and 44 guinea pigs--all males--were used for the studies. Half the number in each species were kept as controls. The remaining half were further divided into two batches. The first batch was given furosemide 10 mg/kg body weight. Two h later they were exposed to simulated altitude of 30,000 ft for 6 h. The second batch was given two injections of furosemide at intervals of 24 h before exposure to simulated altitude. The controls were given distilled water. Our results show that the death rate was more in the furosemide-treated groups, both under mild as well as severe dehydration in all species. The present study does not substantiate the claim than the drug can be used as prophylactic against acute mountain sickness and pulmonary oedema of high altitude.", "contents": "Effect of furosemide on altitude tolerance in experimental animals. Furosemide which is claimed to prevent acute mountain sickness and pulmonary oedema of high altitude was tried in experimental animals to evaluate its usefulness or otherwise as a measure of prophylaxis. 90 mice, 128 rats and 44 guinea pigs--all males--were used for the studies. Half the number in each species were kept as controls. The remaining half were further divided into two batches. The first batch was given furosemide 10 mg/kg body weight. Two h later they were exposed to simulated altitude of 30,000 ft for 6 h. The second batch was given two injections of furosemide at intervals of 24 h before exposure to simulated altitude. The controls were given distilled water. Our results show that the death rate was more in the furosemide-treated groups, both under mild as well as severe dehydration in all species. The present study does not substantiate the claim than the drug can be used as prophylactic against acute mountain sickness and pulmonary oedema of high altitude.", "PMID": 441533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5274", "title": "A new lung function index: the area under the maximum expiratory flow-volume curve.", "content": "A new lung function index, the area under the maximum expiratory flow-volume curve (AFVx) is described. A predicted AFVx based on age, sex and height is determined, and the measured to predicted AFVx ratio is assessed by comparison with other established lung function parameters. This ratio appears to be a very sensitive indicator of the degree of lung function impariment.", "contents": "A new lung function index: the area under the maximum expiratory flow-volume curve. A new lung function index, the area under the maximum expiratory flow-volume curve (AFVx) is described. A predicted AFVx based on age, sex and height is determined, and the measured to predicted AFVx ratio is assessed by comparison with other established lung function parameters. This ratio appears to be a very sensitive indicator of the degree of lung function impariment.", "PMID": 441534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5275", "title": "A single-breath method of alveolar O2 determination.", "content": "We designed a single-breath method of alveolar O2 determination, requiring only a single tidal breath expirate and concomitant arterial blood sample. The PAO2 equation used in our method was derived by applying the Bohr equation to both O2 and CO2 and independant of VO2, VCO2 and RQ. In 35 patients with different degrees of airway obstruction, at rest and during exercise, the single-breath method agreed well with the classic method of PAO2 determination which required 3 min of expired gas collection and derivation of VO2, VCO2 and RQ. The mean difference between the PAO2 estimates by the two methods was 0.36 mm Hg as calculated for all patients, both at rest and during exercise. At rest, in 2 out of 35 cases the difference was greater than 2 mm Hg and such difference happened only in 1 case during exercise. A good correlation existed between the two PAO2 estimates by the two methods (r ranging from 0.977 to 0.996). The data indicated that single-breath method of PAO2 determination was reliable. Its extreme simplicity would facilitate greatly the assessment of gas exchange efficiency in situations where both patient's cooperation and laborator equipment are less than optimum.", "contents": "A single-breath method of alveolar O2 determination. We designed a single-breath method of alveolar O2 determination, requiring only a single tidal breath expirate and concomitant arterial blood sample. The PAO2 equation used in our method was derived by applying the Bohr equation to both O2 and CO2 and independant of VO2, VCO2 and RQ. In 35 patients with different degrees of airway obstruction, at rest and during exercise, the single-breath method agreed well with the classic method of PAO2 determination which required 3 min of expired gas collection and derivation of VO2, VCO2 and RQ. The mean difference between the PAO2 estimates by the two methods was 0.36 mm Hg as calculated for all patients, both at rest and during exercise. At rest, in 2 out of 35 cases the difference was greater than 2 mm Hg and such difference happened only in 1 case during exercise. A good correlation existed between the two PAO2 estimates by the two methods (r ranging from 0.977 to 0.996). The data indicated that single-breath method of PAO2 determination was reliable. Its extreme simplicity would facilitate greatly the assessment of gas exchange efficiency in situations where both patient's cooperation and laborator equipment are less than optimum.", "PMID": 441535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5276", "title": "[Pathogenesis of acute hypercapnic hyperammoniaemia (author's transl)].", "content": "Alterations in the ammonia concentration in arterial blood due to drug-induced portal vasoconstriction (oxprenolol 1 mg/kg) or vasodilatation (phentolamine 0.5 mg/kg) were studied in anaesthetized and artificially respirated mongrel dogs during normal air ventilation, during hypercapnia induced by ventilation with an appropriate gas mixture, and during episodes. The NH3 values in arterial-blood plasma were in the region of 41 microgram/100 ml and those in portal-blood plasma 3--4 times higher. The induction of progressive levels of hypercapnia opened the portal-to-systemic venous shunt, producing an increase in arterial NH3 and, to a lesser extent, NH3 in the CSF. The portal vasoconstriction caused by oxprenolol 1 mg/kg i.v. resulted in the functional elimination of the shunt during normoxia or hypercapnia, leading to a decrease in the NH3 concentration in the arteral blood and hence also in the CSF. The vasodilating effect of phentolamine 0.5 mg/kg i.v., on the other hand, caused a transient, stastically significant increase in arterial NH3 during normoxia; during hypercapnia the NH3 values did not differ from the controls.", "contents": "[Pathogenesis of acute hypercapnic hyperammoniaemia (author's transl)]. Alterations in the ammonia concentration in arterial blood due to drug-induced portal vasoconstriction (oxprenolol 1 mg/kg) or vasodilatation (phentolamine 0.5 mg/kg) were studied in anaesthetized and artificially respirated mongrel dogs during normal air ventilation, during hypercapnia induced by ventilation with an appropriate gas mixture, and during episodes. The NH3 values in arterial-blood plasma were in the region of 41 microgram/100 ml and those in portal-blood plasma 3--4 times higher. The induction of progressive levels of hypercapnia opened the portal-to-systemic venous shunt, producing an increase in arterial NH3 and, to a lesser extent, NH3 in the CSF. The portal vasoconstriction caused by oxprenolol 1 mg/kg i.v. resulted in the functional elimination of the shunt during normoxia or hypercapnia, leading to a decrease in the NH3 concentration in the arteral blood and hence also in the CSF. The vasodilating effect of phentolamine 0.5 mg/kg i.v., on the other hand, caused a transient, stastically significant increase in arterial NH3 during normoxia; during hypercapnia the NH3 values did not differ from the controls.", "PMID": 441536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5277", "title": "Analysis of the changes in ECG during status asthmaticus.", "content": "An analysis was made of the changes in ECG in 61 random patients during status asthmaticus. It was found that a statistically significant increase occurred in the amplitude of the P wave in the inferior leads. P. pulmonale was noticed in lead II in 26%, in lead III in 18%, and in lead aVF in 25% during status asthmaticus, whereas corresponding values in the controls were 5%, 5% and 3%. A tendency to rS was also seen in the precordial leads, as were a small clockwise rotation, a small rotation of the frontal QRS axis to the right, and slight changes in the ST segment and T wave.", "contents": "Analysis of the changes in ECG during status asthmaticus. An analysis was made of the changes in ECG in 61 random patients during status asthmaticus. It was found that a statistically significant increase occurred in the amplitude of the P wave in the inferior leads. P. pulmonale was noticed in lead II in 26%, in lead III in 18%, and in lead aVF in 25% during status asthmaticus, whereas corresponding values in the controls were 5%, 5% and 3%. A tendency to rS was also seen in the precordial leads, as were a small clockwise rotation, a small rotation of the frontal QRS axis to the right, and slight changes in the ST segment and T wave.", "PMID": 441537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5278", "title": "Collateral ventilation in excised human lungs.", "content": "Collateral ventilation was determined in 13 isolated human lungs obtained at postmortem. These included lungs from patients with pneumonia (2 cases), metastatic breast carcinoma (3), emphysema (5), pulmonary fibrosis (2) and hemorrhagic abscess (1). The amount of collateral ventilation was variable and related to the pathological process within the lung. Flow and resistance of collateral pathways were determined for each studied lung. Demonstration of collateral flow was made with the use of 133Xe and recorded by radiographic imaging. Further demonstration of the collateral pathways was done by use of 1 micrometer sized particles of tantalum. Histological examination showed tantalum dust to accumulate at gaps in the alveolar wall at the lobar junction and to pass through this area. Although the sample population is small, no correlation was found for age and the amount of flow through the channels. This study demonstrated that alveolar pores play a role in collateral ventilation. No collateral flow was observed in six pediatric lungs tested. It is likely that collateral ventilation is an acquired phenomenon in humans.", "contents": "Collateral ventilation in excised human lungs. Collateral ventilation was determined in 13 isolated human lungs obtained at postmortem. These included lungs from patients with pneumonia (2 cases), metastatic breast carcinoma (3), emphysema (5), pulmonary fibrosis (2) and hemorrhagic abscess (1). The amount of collateral ventilation was variable and related to the pathological process within the lung. Flow and resistance of collateral pathways were determined for each studied lung. Demonstration of collateral flow was made with the use of 133Xe and recorded by radiographic imaging. Further demonstration of the collateral pathways was done by use of 1 micrometer sized particles of tantalum. Histological examination showed tantalum dust to accumulate at gaps in the alveolar wall at the lobar junction and to pass through this area. Although the sample population is small, no correlation was found for age and the amount of flow through the channels. This study demonstrated that alveolar pores play a role in collateral ventilation. No collateral flow was observed in six pediatric lungs tested. It is likely that collateral ventilation is an acquired phenomenon in humans.", "PMID": 441539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5279", "title": "Respiration in conscious dogs at rest and during exercise.", "content": "25 mongrel dogs (average b.w. 24.6 kg) were studied on several occasions at rest and during treadmill exercise of up to 10 mph (15% incline). Minute ventilation (VE), oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), tidal volume (VT) and respiratory frequency (f) were determined at rest and at each level of exercise. Individual variability in resting VO2 was considerable (71--695 ml/min). Most often the dogs panted, with VE's above 25 liters/min and f's above 100 min-1. The averate VE/VO2 was 109 at rest. VO2 was linearly related to VE (VO2 = 9.17 VE + 66.9; r = 0.80). Differences in resting VE were largely due to differences in f (f = 3.57 VE + 21.2; r = 0.82). Considerable individual variability in VO2 for a given work load was also observed during exercise. Some dogs showed significant differences in VO2 from experiment to experiment while running at a given treadmill speed. These differences were largely related to the levels of VE. VE/VO2 decreased to 50. We found a leveling off of VO2 (at about 60 ml/min/kg) at treadmill speeds of 5 mph, suggesting that the maximal VO2 in dogs is less than previously reported.", "contents": "Respiration in conscious dogs at rest and during exercise. 25 mongrel dogs (average b.w. 24.6 kg) were studied on several occasions at rest and during treadmill exercise of up to 10 mph (15% incline). Minute ventilation (VE), oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), tidal volume (VT) and respiratory frequency (f) were determined at rest and at each level of exercise. Individual variability in resting VO2 was considerable (71--695 ml/min). Most often the dogs panted, with VE's above 25 liters/min and f's above 100 min-1. The averate VE/VO2 was 109 at rest. VO2 was linearly related to VE (VO2 = 9.17 VE + 66.9; r = 0.80). Differences in resting VE were largely due to differences in f (f = 3.57 VE + 21.2; r = 0.82). Considerable individual variability in VO2 for a given work load was also observed during exercise. Some dogs showed significant differences in VO2 from experiment to experiment while running at a given treadmill speed. These differences were largely related to the levels of VE. VE/VO2 decreased to 50. We found a leveling off of VO2 (at about 60 ml/min/kg) at treadmill speeds of 5 mph, suggesting that the maximal VO2 in dogs is less than previously reported.", "PMID": 441540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5280", "title": "Effect of hypoxia on regional lung perfusion, by scanning.", "content": "Lung scanning was performed in 12 subjects who had pulmonary oedema of high altitude (POHA) before, and in 8 men who had been at high altitude without developing pulmonary oedema. Scanning done before and after 5 min 10% O2 breathing showed (a) increased perfusion in POHA subjects after hypoxia, (b) more in the lower than in upper zones, and (c) striking increase in perfusion in localised areas. In controls, however, there was significant reduction in perfusion after hypoxia in most areas. The reduction was less marked in the lower zones than in the upper zones. POHA subjects were hyperreactors to hypoxia, compared to controls. It is concluded that scanning before and after hypoxic breathing might help in differentiating hyperreactors.", "contents": "Effect of hypoxia on regional lung perfusion, by scanning. Lung scanning was performed in 12 subjects who had pulmonary oedema of high altitude (POHA) before, and in 8 men who had been at high altitude without developing pulmonary oedema. Scanning done before and after 5 min 10% O2 breathing showed (a) increased perfusion in POHA subjects after hypoxia, (b) more in the lower than in upper zones, and (c) striking increase in perfusion in localised areas. In controls, however, there was significant reduction in perfusion after hypoxia in most areas. The reduction was less marked in the lower zones than in the upper zones. POHA subjects were hyperreactors to hypoxia, compared to controls. It is concluded that scanning before and after hypoxic breathing might help in differentiating hyperreactors.", "PMID": 441541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5281", "title": "The role of upper airways in antigen-induced bronchoconstriction.", "content": "The bronchoconstrictor effect of antigen was tested in 15 dogs. The upper and the lower airways were sequently exposed through a specially confected endotracheal tube. The antigen was also generally administered through a mouth mask. Bronchoconstriction was induced after each kind of exposure. The results argue for reflex bronchoconstriction. The sensory receptors localized in the upper part of the airways are responsible for about 50% of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction. The decrease of PO2a was less marked following Ascaris suum extract aerosol administration to the upper part of the airways. Control measurements demonstrated the reproducibility of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction.", "contents": "The role of upper airways in antigen-induced bronchoconstriction. The bronchoconstrictor effect of antigen was tested in 15 dogs. The upper and the lower airways were sequently exposed through a specially confected endotracheal tube. The antigen was also generally administered through a mouth mask. Bronchoconstriction was induced after each kind of exposure. The results argue for reflex bronchoconstriction. The sensory receptors localized in the upper part of the airways are responsible for about 50% of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction. The decrease of PO2a was less marked following Ascaris suum extract aerosol administration to the upper part of the airways. Control measurements demonstrated the reproducibility of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction.", "PMID": 441542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5282", "title": "Meniscus formation in airways of excised rat lungs.", "content": "The object of this study was to determine the transpulmonary pressure at which menisci form in the airways of excised rat lungs. The necessary geometric requirements for meniscus formation are normally met in the airways, but a meniscus is presumably prevented from forming at large lung volumes because too little fluid is present. At lower lung volumes a meniscus could form easier since airway caliber is reduced and less fluid is required. A series of pressure-volume curves were recorded for lungs in which meniscus formation was inhibited by increasing the end expiratory pressure. Assuming the number of airways containing at least one meniscus was proportional to the amount of gas trapped in the excised rat lung, it was found that the menisci were formed in 68% of the airways between positive transpulmonary pressures of 1.4 and 3.0 cm H2O during deflation.", "contents": "Meniscus formation in airways of excised rat lungs. The object of this study was to determine the transpulmonary pressure at which menisci form in the airways of excised rat lungs. The necessary geometric requirements for meniscus formation are normally met in the airways, but a meniscus is presumably prevented from forming at large lung volumes because too little fluid is present. At lower lung volumes a meniscus could form easier since airway caliber is reduced and less fluid is required. A series of pressure-volume curves were recorded for lungs in which meniscus formation was inhibited by increasing the end expiratory pressure. Assuming the number of airways containing at least one meniscus was proportional to the amount of gas trapped in the excised rat lung, it was found that the menisci were formed in 68% of the airways between positive transpulmonary pressures of 1.4 and 3.0 cm H2O during deflation.", "PMID": 441568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5283", "title": "Static volume-pressure relationship in normal rats at various stages of growth.", "content": "Static deflation air volume-pressure (V-P) curves were studied in 136 open-chested normal male rats ranging from 103 to 604 g in weight. The lungs accepted a greater volume of air as rats grew in size, but beyond 8 weeks of age, the volume expressed per g of lung weight progressively decreased. In older rats, V-P curves in precent maximum lung air volume (%MLV) were shifted upward and to the left compared to younger rats. We believe that these differences reflect various phases in the postnatal growth of rat lungs and loss of tiss elasticity due to the aging process, respectively. Lung air volume at 30 cm H2O Ptp (MLV30) showed a significantly higher linear relationship with body weight (r = 0.93) than with lung-heart weight (r = 0.80) as the independent variable. We present V-P nomograms and discuss two techniques of measuring V-P relationships with their specific applications.", "contents": "Static volume-pressure relationship in normal rats at various stages of growth. Static deflation air volume-pressure (V-P) curves were studied in 136 open-chested normal male rats ranging from 103 to 604 g in weight. The lungs accepted a greater volume of air as rats grew in size, but beyond 8 weeks of age, the volume expressed per g of lung weight progressively decreased. In older rats, V-P curves in precent maximum lung air volume (%MLV) were shifted upward and to the left compared to younger rats. We believe that these differences reflect various phases in the postnatal growth of rat lungs and loss of tiss elasticity due to the aging process, respectively. Lung air volume at 30 cm H2O Ptp (MLV30) showed a significantly higher linear relationship with body weight (r = 0.93) than with lung-heart weight (r = 0.80) as the independent variable. We present V-P nomograms and discuss two techniques of measuring V-P relationships with their specific applications.", "PMID": 441569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5284", "title": "Corrections to the Hazelhoff model of airflow in the avian lung.", "content": "The ventilatory activity of the anterior and posterior groups of air sacs was simulated in unidirectionally-ventilated geese and the resultant flow of air in the mediodorsal secondary bronchi was used as an indicator of the route which air followed through the lung. The results were used to isolate the roles of the respective groups of air sacs in the shaping of the unidirectional pattern of airflow known to exist during normal respiration. Findings indicated that, in contrast to Hazelhoff's model, the anterior and not the posterior sacs are responsible for producing the caudo-cranial flow of air through the parabronchi during inspiration. The posterior sacs, as predicted by Hazelhoffs model, and primarily responsible for driving the caudo-cranial current through the parabronchi during expiration.", "contents": "Corrections to the Hazelhoff model of airflow in the avian lung. The ventilatory activity of the anterior and posterior groups of air sacs was simulated in unidirectionally-ventilated geese and the resultant flow of air in the mediodorsal secondary bronchi was used as an indicator of the route which air followed through the lung. The results were used to isolate the roles of the respective groups of air sacs in the shaping of the unidirectional pattern of airflow known to exist during normal respiration. Findings indicated that, in contrast to Hazelhoff's model, the anterior and not the posterior sacs are responsible for producing the caudo-cranial flow of air through the parabronchi during inspiration. The posterior sacs, as predicted by Hazelhoffs model, and primarily responsible for driving the caudo-cranial current through the parabronchi during expiration.", "PMID": 441570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5285", "title": "Role of PCO2 as determinant of CSF [HCO-3] in metabolic acidosis.", "content": "To study regulation of CSF [HCO-3] in metabolic acidosis and in particular the role of CSF PCO2 in establishing CSF bicarbonate level, acute metabolic acidosis was induced by the intravenous infusion of HCl in three groups of anesthetized dogs for six hours when PaCO2 was changed at different rates. Plasma [HCO-3] was lowered to 12 +/- 2 meq/L within one hour and maintained at that level thereafter in all groups. (I) Seven dogs were kept isocapnic while metabolic acidosis was induced. The cisternal CSF [HCO-3] fell by only 2.6 meq/L after six hours and was not significantly different from control. (II) In 11 dogs metabolic acidosis was induced while the dogs breathed spontaneously. There was a gradual drop in PaCO2 accompanied by a similar drop in CSF PCO2 of 14.5 torr. CSF [HCO-3] fell significantly by 6.1 meq/L at 6 hours and in parallel with the fall in CSF PCO2. (III) In order to show interdependence of the rate of fall in CSF [HCO-3] with rate of fall in cisternal PCO2 six dogs were mechanically hyperventilated and PaCO2 reduced to 21 torr rapidly and maintained there for six hours. CSF PCO2 followed PaCO. CSF bicarbonate fell rapidly and by 5 meq/L. In groups II and III the fall in cisternal [HCO-3] paralleled the drop in PCO2. Therefore, in metabolic acidosis the rate of the fall in cisternal bicarbonate appears to be a function of the rate of fall in CSF PCO2. It is speculated that the coupling of CSF [HCO-3] reduction in metabolic acidosis to CSF PCO2 fall is primarily for the benefit of CNS H+ homeostasis.", "contents": "Role of PCO2 as determinant of CSF [HCO-3] in metabolic acidosis. To study regulation of CSF [HCO-3] in metabolic acidosis and in particular the role of CSF PCO2 in establishing CSF bicarbonate level, acute metabolic acidosis was induced by the intravenous infusion of HCl in three groups of anesthetized dogs for six hours when PaCO2 was changed at different rates. Plasma [HCO-3] was lowered to 12 +/- 2 meq/L within one hour and maintained at that level thereafter in all groups. (I) Seven dogs were kept isocapnic while metabolic acidosis was induced. The cisternal CSF [HCO-3] fell by only 2.6 meq/L after six hours and was not significantly different from control. (II) In 11 dogs metabolic acidosis was induced while the dogs breathed spontaneously. There was a gradual drop in PaCO2 accompanied by a similar drop in CSF PCO2 of 14.5 torr. CSF [HCO-3] fell significantly by 6.1 meq/L at 6 hours and in parallel with the fall in CSF PCO2. (III) In order to show interdependence of the rate of fall in CSF [HCO-3] with rate of fall in cisternal PCO2 six dogs were mechanically hyperventilated and PaCO2 reduced to 21 torr rapidly and maintained there for six hours. CSF PCO2 followed PaCO. CSF bicarbonate fell rapidly and by 5 meq/L. In groups II and III the fall in cisternal [HCO-3] paralleled the drop in PCO2. Therefore, in metabolic acidosis the rate of the fall in cisternal bicarbonate appears to be a function of the rate of fall in CSF PCO2. It is speculated that the coupling of CSF [HCO-3] reduction in metabolic acidosis to CSF PCO2 fall is primarily for the benefit of CNS H+ homeostasis.", "PMID": 441571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5286", "title": "An analysis of respiratory frequency alterations in vagotomized, decerebrate cats.", "content": "Changes in inspiratory (TI), expiratory (TE) and total respiratory cycle (TTOT) durations with hypercapnia- of hypoxia-induced tidal volume (VT) elevations were evaluated in midcollicular decerebrate cats. As VT increased, TI, TE, and TTOT decreased for most animals having intact vagi. Following vagotomy, TI, TE, and TTOT increased with hypercapnia for cats which had TI, TE and TTOT values shorter than 1.6, 3.7 and 5.2 sec respectively while breathing 100% O2; values longer than these forecast hypercapnia-induced decreases in each parameter. Similar systematic changes were not evident for hypoxia-induced responses. Varying the midbrain transection level or pentobarbital administration altered TI, TE and TTOT values while breathing 100% O2; however, the predictability of hypercapnia-induced responses, based on data analysis from midcollicular decerebrate cats, was maintained. It is concluded that the vagally-independent brainstem frequency controller is sensitive to hypercapnia and hypoxia. The predictability of hypercapnia-induced TI, TE and TTOT changes in vagotomized animals is considered in the context of previous models for respiratory rhythm generation.", "contents": "An analysis of respiratory frequency alterations in vagotomized, decerebrate cats. Changes in inspiratory (TI), expiratory (TE) and total respiratory cycle (TTOT) durations with hypercapnia- of hypoxia-induced tidal volume (VT) elevations were evaluated in midcollicular decerebrate cats. As VT increased, TI, TE, and TTOT decreased for most animals having intact vagi. Following vagotomy, TI, TE, and TTOT increased with hypercapnia for cats which had TI, TE and TTOT values shorter than 1.6, 3.7 and 5.2 sec respectively while breathing 100% O2; values longer than these forecast hypercapnia-induced decreases in each parameter. Similar systematic changes were not evident for hypoxia-induced responses. Varying the midbrain transection level or pentobarbital administration altered TI, TE and TTOT values while breathing 100% O2; however, the predictability of hypercapnia-induced responses, based on data analysis from midcollicular decerebrate cats, was maintained. It is concluded that the vagally-independent brainstem frequency controller is sensitive to hypercapnia and hypoxia. The predictability of hypercapnia-induced TI, TE and TTOT changes in vagotomized animals is considered in the context of previous models for respiratory rhythm generation.", "PMID": 441572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5287", "title": "Regulation of ventilatory responses in vagotomized cats by caudal brainstem sites.", "content": "Respiratory responses to hypercapnia and isocapnic hypoxia were evaluated in vagotomized decerebrate cats prior to and following lesions in the midline at the pontomedullary junction. Subsequent to these lesions, frequency responses to hypercapnia were significantly elevated whereas the concomitantly determined tidal volumes were significantly lowered. In the post-lesion phase, the durations of inspiration, expiration and the total respiratory cycle at maximum hypercapnia-induced tidal volumes were lower than comparable values at maximum tidal volumes in the pre-lesion phase. The same lesions produced no significant alteration of respiratory responses to hypoxia. Mesencephalic or rostral pontile lesions caused no systematic changes in either hypercapnia- or hypoxia-induced responses. It is concluded that the lesions at the pontomedullary junction produce ventilatory alterations by interrupting a pathway interconnecting the caudal pontile apneustic center with the medullary respiratory complex. The possibility that this interruption produces an alteration in the threshold of the inspiratory off-switch mechanism of the brainstem respiratory controller is considered and discussed.", "contents": "Regulation of ventilatory responses in vagotomized cats by caudal brainstem sites. Respiratory responses to hypercapnia and isocapnic hypoxia were evaluated in vagotomized decerebrate cats prior to and following lesions in the midline at the pontomedullary junction. Subsequent to these lesions, frequency responses to hypercapnia were significantly elevated whereas the concomitantly determined tidal volumes were significantly lowered. In the post-lesion phase, the durations of inspiration, expiration and the total respiratory cycle at maximum hypercapnia-induced tidal volumes were lower than comparable values at maximum tidal volumes in the pre-lesion phase. The same lesions produced no significant alteration of respiratory responses to hypoxia. Mesencephalic or rostral pontile lesions caused no systematic changes in either hypercapnia- or hypoxia-induced responses. It is concluded that the lesions at the pontomedullary junction produce ventilatory alterations by interrupting a pathway interconnecting the caudal pontile apneustic center with the medullary respiratory complex. The possibility that this interruption produces an alteration in the threshold of the inspiratory off-switch mechanism of the brainstem respiratory controller is considered and discussed.", "PMID": 441573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5288", "title": "Pentobarbitone effects on respiration related units; selective depression of bulbopontine reticular neurones.", "content": "Respiration related units (RRUs) were recorded in cats, locally anesthetized, vagotomized and immobilized, under two different experimental conditions: (1) receiving pentobarbitone intravenously at a dose inducing slight but highly significant changes in phrenic discharge; (2) unanesthetized, with a spinal section at C6. RRU characteristics were analysed in unitary volumes constituted by cubes of a matrix including the brain stem. Four parameters of RRU discharges were compared in cubes = RRU density (RRUD), RRU proportion and two indices of respiratory modulation. Cubes were sampled in: (1) dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei, (2) pneumotaxic centre (PC), and (3) seven fields of the bulbopontine and mesencephalic reticular formation. Using the paired sample method for comparing data cube by cube in the two conditions it was shown that under pentobarbitone, RRU activity was profoundly depressed in the reticular formation surrounding dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei, in the region bridging the gap between these and the pneumotaxic centre and extending from the pneumotaxic level to the decussation of the brachium conjunctivum. In contrast RRU activity was unchanged at the level of dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei and in the nucleus parabrachiallis medialis (NPBM) and was increased in the K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nucleus (KF). In the mesencephalic reticular formation, increased activity was observed for non-modulated units and to a larger extent for units driven by the bulbopontine respiratory system.", "contents": "Pentobarbitone effects on respiration related units; selective depression of bulbopontine reticular neurones. Respiration related units (RRUs) were recorded in cats, locally anesthetized, vagotomized and immobilized, under two different experimental conditions: (1) receiving pentobarbitone intravenously at a dose inducing slight but highly significant changes in phrenic discharge; (2) unanesthetized, with a spinal section at C6. RRU characteristics were analysed in unitary volumes constituted by cubes of a matrix including the brain stem. Four parameters of RRU discharges were compared in cubes = RRU density (RRUD), RRU proportion and two indices of respiratory modulation. Cubes were sampled in: (1) dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei, (2) pneumotaxic centre (PC), and (3) seven fields of the bulbopontine and mesencephalic reticular formation. Using the paired sample method for comparing data cube by cube in the two conditions it was shown that under pentobarbitone, RRU activity was profoundly depressed in the reticular formation surrounding dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei, in the region bridging the gap between these and the pneumotaxic centre and extending from the pneumotaxic level to the decussation of the brachium conjunctivum. In contrast RRU activity was unchanged at the level of dorsal and ventral bulbar respiratory nuclei and in the nucleus parabrachiallis medialis (NPBM) and was increased in the K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nucleus (KF). In the mesencephalic reticular formation, increased activity was observed for non-modulated units and to a larger extent for units driven by the bulbopontine respiratory system.", "PMID": 441574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5289", "title": "Histamine and phenyldiguanide induced tachypnea in hypercapnia and hypoxia.", "content": "The rapid shallow breathing of pulmonary vagal origin following administration of histamine (H) and phenyldiguanide (PDG) was studied at different levels of hypercapnic and hypoxic stimulation. At all levels of chemical drive H and PDG caused an excitatory effect on timing of breathing and an inhibitory effect on the respiratory output. The latter was evaluated from the mean inspiratory flow rate and the mean rate of change of pressure developed in the lungs during an inspiratory effort against closed airways. The timing effect was greater at low than at high PaCO2 while the opposite was true for the output effect. At all PaCO2, H and PDG decreased the volume-threshold for termination of inspiration (leftward displacement of the VT vs TI relationship) of the VT Vs TI relationship). Hypoxia increased the respiratory output in control as much as with drug stimulation. Moreover, hypoxia did not affect the volume-threshold curve both in control and with H and PDG. We concluded that vagal afferents stimulated by H and PDG (irritant and/or J receptors) interfere with the timing and output response to central chemoreceptors stimulation (CO2 sensitivity) without affecting the response to peripheral chemoreceptors stimulation (mainly hypoxic chemosensitivity).", "contents": "Histamine and phenyldiguanide induced tachypnea in hypercapnia and hypoxia. The rapid shallow breathing of pulmonary vagal origin following administration of histamine (H) and phenyldiguanide (PDG) was studied at different levels of hypercapnic and hypoxic stimulation. At all levels of chemical drive H and PDG caused an excitatory effect on timing of breathing and an inhibitory effect on the respiratory output. The latter was evaluated from the mean inspiratory flow rate and the mean rate of change of pressure developed in the lungs during an inspiratory effort against closed airways. The timing effect was greater at low than at high PaCO2 while the opposite was true for the output effect. At all PaCO2, H and PDG decreased the volume-threshold for termination of inspiration (leftward displacement of the VT vs TI relationship) of the VT Vs TI relationship). Hypoxia increased the respiratory output in control as much as with drug stimulation. Moreover, hypoxia did not affect the volume-threshold curve both in control and with H and PDG. We concluded that vagal afferents stimulated by H and PDG (irritant and/or J receptors) interfere with the timing and output response to central chemoreceptors stimulation (CO2 sensitivity) without affecting the response to peripheral chemoreceptors stimulation (mainly hypoxic chemosensitivity).", "PMID": 441575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5290", "title": "Role of glucose in contractility of airway smooth muscle.", "content": "This study investigated the response of isolated tracheal preparation (ITP) from guinea pigs to three bronchoconstrictive drugs: histamine (H), carbachol (CAR), and acetylcholine (ACH). Cumulative dose-response curves were obtained in substrate-rich (5.50 mM of glucose) and substrate-free physiological salt solutions under aerobic conditions (PO2 = 95 +/- 0.5 Torr) or in acute 30-min hypoxia (PO2 = 30 +/- 2 Torr). The reactivity of ITP was measured by ED50 (effective dose developing 50% of maximal response); and the contractility of ITP was measured by a maximal developed isometric tension. This study showed that the contractile response of isolated segments of tracheas to H, CAR, and ACH was significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) when the experimental medium contained no glucose, or when glucose was replaced with metabolic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose. This data contrasted with findings obtained with main pulmonary arteries (MPAs) isolated from the same species, where the absence of glucose in the experimental medium did not affect patterns of histamine cumulative dose-response curves. It was also shown that pretreatment of isolated tracheas with a small dose of insulin significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) the contractile response of airway smooth muscle to histamine. In both experiments, either with or without glucose in the experimental medium, acute hypoxia (30 min) had a significantly greater effect (P less than 0.05) on the development of isometric tension of MPA compared with that on ITP. Both removal of glucose from the experimental medium and/or acute hypoxia significantly decreased (P less than 0.001) adenosin triphosphate and creatine phosphate contents of tracheal segments but did not influence the high-energy phosphate content of main pulmonary arteries exposed to similar conditions. In addition to pointing out the physiological and metabolic differences between pulmonary vascular and airway smooth muscle, this study showed the important dependence of airway smooth muscle on glucose as a substrate.", "contents": "Role of glucose in contractility of airway smooth muscle. This study investigated the response of isolated tracheal preparation (ITP) from guinea pigs to three bronchoconstrictive drugs: histamine (H), carbachol (CAR), and acetylcholine (ACH). Cumulative dose-response curves were obtained in substrate-rich (5.50 mM of glucose) and substrate-free physiological salt solutions under aerobic conditions (PO2 = 95 +/- 0.5 Torr) or in acute 30-min hypoxia (PO2 = 30 +/- 2 Torr). The reactivity of ITP was measured by ED50 (effective dose developing 50% of maximal response); and the contractility of ITP was measured by a maximal developed isometric tension. This study showed that the contractile response of isolated segments of tracheas to H, CAR, and ACH was significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) when the experimental medium contained no glucose, or when glucose was replaced with metabolic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose. This data contrasted with findings obtained with main pulmonary arteries (MPAs) isolated from the same species, where the absence of glucose in the experimental medium did not affect patterns of histamine cumulative dose-response curves. It was also shown that pretreatment of isolated tracheas with a small dose of insulin significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) the contractile response of airway smooth muscle to histamine. In both experiments, either with or without glucose in the experimental medium, acute hypoxia (30 min) had a significantly greater effect (P less than 0.05) on the development of isometric tension of MPA compared with that on ITP. Both removal of glucose from the experimental medium and/or acute hypoxia significantly decreased (P less than 0.001) adenosin triphosphate and creatine phosphate contents of tracheal segments but did not influence the high-energy phosphate content of main pulmonary arteries exposed to similar conditions. In addition to pointing out the physiological and metabolic differences between pulmonary vascular and airway smooth muscle, this study showed the important dependence of airway smooth muscle on glucose as a substrate.", "PMID": 441576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5291", "title": "Respiratory responses to changes in airflow resistance in conscious man.", "content": "The time course and magnitude of adjustments in respiratory activity during the application and following the removal of inspiratory resistive loads were determined in conscious men. Changes in airflow resistance were made periodically during rebreathing of a gas mixture of carbon dioxide and oxygen. Ventilation, the ratio of tidal volume to inspiratory duration and the mouth pressure during airway occlusion, 100 ms after the onset of inspiration were used as measures of inspiratory neuromuscular activity. The occlusion pressure was measured during each breath using an electrically activated solenoid shutter which obstructed the airway for only the first 100 ms of each inspiration. During the second breath following the application of the resistive load, there was an increase in inspiratory output which occurred independently of changes in PCO2 and PO2. Further increases in inspiratory activity during successive loaded breaths, however, were due exclusively to changing chemical drive. The level of inspiratory neuromuscular activity remained elevated for a single breath following removal of the added resistance. Adjustments in respiratory activity were greater the more severe the load. The results suggest that non-chemically mediated respiratory compensation in conscious individuals develops rapidly and is important in maintaining ventilation when breathing is encumbered.", "contents": "Respiratory responses to changes in airflow resistance in conscious man. The time course and magnitude of adjustments in respiratory activity during the application and following the removal of inspiratory resistive loads were determined in conscious men. Changes in airflow resistance were made periodically during rebreathing of a gas mixture of carbon dioxide and oxygen. Ventilation, the ratio of tidal volume to inspiratory duration and the mouth pressure during airway occlusion, 100 ms after the onset of inspiration were used as measures of inspiratory neuromuscular activity. The occlusion pressure was measured during each breath using an electrically activated solenoid shutter which obstructed the airway for only the first 100 ms of each inspiration. During the second breath following the application of the resistive load, there was an increase in inspiratory output which occurred independently of changes in PCO2 and PO2. Further increases in inspiratory activity during successive loaded breaths, however, were due exclusively to changing chemical drive. The level of inspiratory neuromuscular activity remained elevated for a single breath following removal of the added resistance. Adjustments in respiratory activity were greater the more severe the load. The results suggest that non-chemically mediated respiratory compensation in conscious individuals develops rapidly and is important in maintaining ventilation when breathing is encumbered.", "PMID": 441577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5292", "title": "The measurement of metabolic gas exchange and minute volume by mass spectrometry alone.", "content": "Metabolic gas exchange and respired minute volume were measured on 37 occasions in 9 normal adults on exercise and at rest, using the concentration of an injected gas, argon, as a measure of flow. These measurements were compared with simultaneous Douglas bag collections in which volumes were determined with a dry gas meter. The two types of measurements agreed within +/- 5%. It was concluded that this technique, designed for the remote monitoring of unconscious patients was suitable for a wide variety of clinical and experimental situations.", "contents": "The measurement of metabolic gas exchange and minute volume by mass spectrometry alone. Metabolic gas exchange and respired minute volume were measured on 37 occasions in 9 normal adults on exercise and at rest, using the concentration of an injected gas, argon, as a measure of flow. These measurements were compared with simultaneous Douglas bag collections in which volumes were determined with a dry gas meter. The two types of measurements agreed within +/- 5%. It was concluded that this technique, designed for the remote monitoring of unconscious patients was suitable for a wide variety of clinical and experimental situations.", "PMID": 441578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5293", "title": "Hen's eggs with retarded gas exchange. I. Chorioallantoic capillary growth.", "content": "The diffusing capacity of the hen's egg for carbon monoxide (D tau co) increases during incubation, reflecting the development of the chorioallantoic circulation. Previous work showed that the increase in D tau co could be diminished by incubating eggs in a 60% oxygen environment. The present work explored the effects of impeding gas exchange on the development of D tau co. Half the shell area was covered during incubation by a removable neoprene membrane which limited D tau co by approximately 20%. No difference could be detected between the D tau co values (measured with the membrane removed) of these eggs and control eggs incubated in the same 21% oxygen environment without a neoprene membrane. We conclude that the development of the chorioallantoic circulation is at its maximum under normal conditions of incubation and cannot be accelerated by restricting gas exchange.", "contents": "Hen's eggs with retarded gas exchange. I. Chorioallantoic capillary growth. The diffusing capacity of the hen's egg for carbon monoxide (D tau co) increases during incubation, reflecting the development of the chorioallantoic circulation. Previous work showed that the increase in D tau co could be diminished by incubating eggs in a 60% oxygen environment. The present work explored the effects of impeding gas exchange on the development of D tau co. Half the shell area was covered during incubation by a removable neoprene membrane which limited D tau co by approximately 20%. No difference could be detected between the D tau co values (measured with the membrane removed) of these eggs and control eggs incubated in the same 21% oxygen environment without a neoprene membrane. We conclude that the development of the chorioallantoic circulation is at its maximum under normal conditions of incubation and cannot be accelerated by restricting gas exchange.", "PMID": 441579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5294", "title": "Decay rate of inspiratory muscle pressure during expiration in man.", "content": "Decay rate of inspiratory muscle pressure (PmusI) was studied in 4 subjects during post-inspiratory period of zero flow (TEz) occurring under discontinuous inspiratory elastic load (DIL). End-inspiratory pressure (PmuseI) was increased by dead spaces or exercises. Decay rate was related to PmuseI by a power function with exponent greater than 1. It was not directly affected by concomitant changes of PCO2. It did not increase when an expiratory resistive load was added, i.e. when braking action of inspiratory muscles was no longer required. Time course of PmusI during TEz was more straight than exponential. Relative decay rate increased with PmuseI and with decrease of inspiratory or expiratory time. Experiments with resistive loads suggest that relative rate is mainly related to timing factors. During voluntary inspiratory efforts with closed airways, relative decay rate was not related to PmuseI, while decay rate increased linearly with PmuseI.", "contents": "Decay rate of inspiratory muscle pressure during expiration in man. Decay rate of inspiratory muscle pressure (PmusI) was studied in 4 subjects during post-inspiratory period of zero flow (TEz) occurring under discontinuous inspiratory elastic load (DIL). End-inspiratory pressure (PmuseI) was increased by dead spaces or exercises. Decay rate was related to PmuseI by a power function with exponent greater than 1. It was not directly affected by concomitant changes of PCO2. It did not increase when an expiratory resistive load was added, i.e. when braking action of inspiratory muscles was no longer required. Time course of PmusI during TEz was more straight than exponential. Relative decay rate increased with PmuseI and with decrease of inspiratory or expiratory time. Experiments with resistive loads suggest that relative rate is mainly related to timing factors. During voluntary inspiratory efforts with closed airways, relative decay rate was not related to PmuseI, while decay rate increased linearly with PmuseI.", "PMID": 441580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5295", "title": "Mechanical properties of the harbor porpoise lung, Phocoena phocoena.", "content": "The pressure-volume and pressure-flow characteristics of the excised lungs of 5 harbor porpoise were determined. It was found that: (1) in comparison to terrestrial mammals the lung volume relative to body weight is large, (2) the lungs are capable of emptying to less than 17% of total lung capacity, (3) peak expiratory flowrates of 5 to 10 vital capacities (VC).sec-1 are relatively high for mammals, (4) isovolume pressure flow curves showed a clustering of flowrate plateaus from 40 to 80% VC, with a marked drop in the flow rate plateau at 20% VC, (5) the profile of flow-volume curves is unusually square shaped with flows remaining above 2 VC.sec-1 at a lung volume of 20% VC, (6) this feature is responsible for the short emptying time of less than 0.2 sec. It is concluded that cartilaginous airway reinforcement, which extends to the alveolar sac, is responsible for the unusual flow-volume properties. These porpoises have the capability of exchanging a large percent of their lung gas very rapidly during their brief pass through the air-water interface.", "contents": "Mechanical properties of the harbor porpoise lung, Phocoena phocoena. The pressure-volume and pressure-flow characteristics of the excised lungs of 5 harbor porpoise were determined. It was found that: (1) in comparison to terrestrial mammals the lung volume relative to body weight is large, (2) the lungs are capable of emptying to less than 17% of total lung capacity, (3) peak expiratory flowrates of 5 to 10 vital capacities (VC).sec-1 are relatively high for mammals, (4) isovolume pressure flow curves showed a clustering of flowrate plateaus from 40 to 80% VC, with a marked drop in the flow rate plateau at 20% VC, (5) the profile of flow-volume curves is unusually square shaped with flows remaining above 2 VC.sec-1 at a lung volume of 20% VC, (6) this feature is responsible for the short emptying time of less than 0.2 sec. It is concluded that cartilaginous airway reinforcement, which extends to the alveolar sac, is responsible for the unusual flow-volume properties. These porpoises have the capability of exchanging a large percent of their lung gas very rapidly during their brief pass through the air-water interface.", "PMID": 441581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5296", "title": "Carbon dioxide sensitivity of aortic chemoreceptors in the cat.", "content": "Steady state CO2 sensitivity in the aortic chemoreceptors was variable. For 70.3% of the steady state response lines to increasing CO2 the slope was not significantly different from zero. For 24.3%, it was significantly positive and for 5.4% significantly negative. In contrast, in 86.7% of cases the oscillating response to alternate breaths of high and low CO2 suggested a transient response line which was significantly steeper than the steady state line. Removing CO2 from a high CO2 content inspirate for one breath caused a distinct drop in discharge on 83.3% of occasions. The significance of such transient CO2 sensitivity in the absence of clear steady state sensitivity is discussed.", "contents": "Carbon dioxide sensitivity of aortic chemoreceptors in the cat. Steady state CO2 sensitivity in the aortic chemoreceptors was variable. For 70.3% of the steady state response lines to increasing CO2 the slope was not significantly different from zero. For 24.3%, it was significantly positive and for 5.4% significantly negative. In contrast, in 86.7% of cases the oscillating response to alternate breaths of high and low CO2 suggested a transient response line which was significantly steeper than the steady state line. Removing CO2 from a high CO2 content inspirate for one breath caused a distinct drop in discharge on 83.3% of occasions. The significance of such transient CO2 sensitivity in the absence of clear steady state sensitivity is discussed.", "PMID": 441582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5297", "title": "Inspiratory-expiratory responses to alternate-breath oscillation of PACO2 and PAO2.", "content": "Breath-by-breath respiratory responses of three healthy adults to imposed alternate-breath oscillation of end-tidal PCO2 (between +5 and +15 torr above the eupnoeic level) and/or PO2 (between 80 and 45 torr) were studied at rest and during mild cycle ergometer exercise. There was often alternation in inspiratory and expiratory tidal volumes and mean flows, and in expiratory duration, but not in inspiratory duration. The latency of responses, estimated by cross-correlation, corresponded closely to the lung-ear transport delay (measured by oximetry). There were two general patterns of response: in-phase, with inspiratory responses leading expiratory, and, more often, out-of-phase, with expiratory responses leading inspiratory. These patterns were associated with arrival of the onset of the alternating signal at the ear in inspiration and expiration, respectively. It is concluded that the timing of alternating humoral signals at the carotid bodies in relation to the phase of respiration determines the pattern of inspiratory-expiratory response, and that expiratory events can be independent of the previous inspiration.", "contents": "Inspiratory-expiratory responses to alternate-breath oscillation of PACO2 and PAO2. Breath-by-breath respiratory responses of three healthy adults to imposed alternate-breath oscillation of end-tidal PCO2 (between +5 and +15 torr above the eupnoeic level) and/or PO2 (between 80 and 45 torr) were studied at rest and during mild cycle ergometer exercise. There was often alternation in inspiratory and expiratory tidal volumes and mean flows, and in expiratory duration, but not in inspiratory duration. The latency of responses, estimated by cross-correlation, corresponded closely to the lung-ear transport delay (measured by oximetry). There were two general patterns of response: in-phase, with inspiratory responses leading expiratory, and, more often, out-of-phase, with expiratory responses leading inspiratory. These patterns were associated with arrival of the onset of the alternating signal at the ear in inspiration and expiration, respectively. It is concluded that the timing of alternating humoral signals at the carotid bodies in relation to the phase of respiration determines the pattern of inspiratory-expiratory response, and that expiratory events can be independent of the previous inspiration.", "PMID": 441583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5298", "title": "Reflex influences from the extrathoracic trachea during airway occlusion.", "content": "We have performed experiments in 26 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital and fitted with an endotracheal tube. The inflatable cuff of this tube was positioned either at the level of the cricoid cartilage or at the thoracic inlet. In this latter situation the extrathoracic trachea (E.T.T.) is not subjected to any change in transmural pressure both during breathing and airway occlusion. We have compared the inspiratory output in term of the integrated phrenic discharge during airway occlusion at FRC with the tracheal tube positioned at either one of the two levels. In most of the experiments (16 out of 26) the inspiratory output during airway occlusion is significantly greater (157%) when the E.T.T. is not by-passed and this difference disappears after bilateral vagotomy. We interpret these results by the asymmetrical response of the tracheal stretch receptors to positive and negative transmural pressure (Pt); most of these receptors are active at FRC and decrease their activity at low negative Pt, as that attained in the first occluded breath. These results seem to suggest that the reflex influences from the extrathoracic tracheal receptors on the inspiratory output are similar to those originating from the intrathoracic airway stretch receptors.", "contents": "Reflex influences from the extrathoracic trachea during airway occlusion. We have performed experiments in 26 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital and fitted with an endotracheal tube. The inflatable cuff of this tube was positioned either at the level of the cricoid cartilage or at the thoracic inlet. In this latter situation the extrathoracic trachea (E.T.T.) is not subjected to any change in transmural pressure both during breathing and airway occlusion. We have compared the inspiratory output in term of the integrated phrenic discharge during airway occlusion at FRC with the tracheal tube positioned at either one of the two levels. In most of the experiments (16 out of 26) the inspiratory output during airway occlusion is significantly greater (157%) when the E.T.T. is not by-passed and this difference disappears after bilateral vagotomy. We interpret these results by the asymmetrical response of the tracheal stretch receptors to positive and negative transmural pressure (Pt); most of these receptors are active at FRC and decrease their activity at low negative Pt, as that attained in the first occluded breath. These results seem to suggest that the reflex influences from the extrathoracic tracheal receptors on the inspiratory output are similar to those originating from the intrathoracic airway stretch receptors.", "PMID": 441584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5299", "title": "Behavior of expiratory neurons in response to mechanical and chemical loading.", "content": "The response of medullary expiratory neurons to added mechanical and chemical loads was studied in anesthetized cats. Alterations in burst characteristics and central timing were compared in the intact and bilaterally vagotomized cat. The following results were obtained: (1) Graded expiratory airflow resistances caused progressive increases in burst duration, spikes per burst and firing rate; similar effects were noted for end-inspiratory tracheal occlusions and continuous positive breathing; all facilitation was eliminated by vagotomy. (2) Graded inspiratory airflow resistances delayed the onset of an expiratory burst but did not change the overall burst characteristics. (3) Acute hypercapnia increased ventilation without noticeable changes in expiratory burst characteristics; acute hypoxia produced a reduction in burst duration concomitant with changes in ventilation. It is concluded that (1) expiratory neurons are responsive to vagally mediated volume information and (2) transient hypoxia and hypercapnia sufficient to increase ventilation does not increase the firing rate of expiratory neurons but exerts differential effects with respect to timing. It is suggested that expiratory duration is related to the time integral of expired volume and that the increase in FRC imposed by expiratory loads does not alter the central timing of the next inspiration.", "contents": "Behavior of expiratory neurons in response to mechanical and chemical loading. The response of medullary expiratory neurons to added mechanical and chemical loads was studied in anesthetized cats. Alterations in burst characteristics and central timing were compared in the intact and bilaterally vagotomized cat. The following results were obtained: (1) Graded expiratory airflow resistances caused progressive increases in burst duration, spikes per burst and firing rate; similar effects were noted for end-inspiratory tracheal occlusions and continuous positive breathing; all facilitation was eliminated by vagotomy. (2) Graded inspiratory airflow resistances delayed the onset of an expiratory burst but did not change the overall burst characteristics. (3) Acute hypercapnia increased ventilation without noticeable changes in expiratory burst characteristics; acute hypoxia produced a reduction in burst duration concomitant with changes in ventilation. It is concluded that (1) expiratory neurons are responsive to vagally mediated volume information and (2) transient hypoxia and hypercapnia sufficient to increase ventilation does not increase the firing rate of expiratory neurons but exerts differential effects with respect to timing. It is suggested that expiratory duration is related to the time integral of expired volume and that the increase in FRC imposed by expiratory loads does not alter the central timing of the next inspiration.", "PMID": 441585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5300", "title": "Properties of inspiratory termination by superior laryngeal and vagal stimulation.", "content": "Electrical stimulation of two respiratory afferent nerves, the vagus and the internal branch of the superior laryngeal, was used to terminate inspiration. The short latency responses of phrenic motoneurones to these stimuli were studied to determine if inspiratory termination was preceded by a characteristic phrenic motoneurone discharge pattern, reflecting changes in brainstem inspiratory neurone discharge and inspiratory terminating mechanisms. Stimulus trains of sufficient intensity delivered to the superior laryngeal nerve terminated inspiration within 50 ms and were preceded by a stereotyped pattern of phrenic motoneurone discharge. This consisted of a short latency (disynaptic), predominantly contralateral excitation in response to the first shock of the train, followed by a marked and long lasting inhibition. In contrast, vagal stimulation typically terminated inspiration hundreds of milliseconds after the onset of the stimulus train and was not preceded by a stereotyped pattern of phrenic motoneurone responses to single shocks. Transient short latency responses were obtained but were extremely small, requiring considerable excitation followed by a moderate bilateral depression of activity. Inspiration could be terminated with or without the presence of these short latency responses. These results indicate that superior laryngeal and vagal (presumably pulmonary stretch receptor) afferents have different projections to brainstem inspiratory neurones and may exert their effects on inspiratory duration through different, but as yet undefined, neural mechanisms.", "contents": "Properties of inspiratory termination by superior laryngeal and vagal stimulation. Electrical stimulation of two respiratory afferent nerves, the vagus and the internal branch of the superior laryngeal, was used to terminate inspiration. The short latency responses of phrenic motoneurones to these stimuli were studied to determine if inspiratory termination was preceded by a characteristic phrenic motoneurone discharge pattern, reflecting changes in brainstem inspiratory neurone discharge and inspiratory terminating mechanisms. Stimulus trains of sufficient intensity delivered to the superior laryngeal nerve terminated inspiration within 50 ms and were preceded by a stereotyped pattern of phrenic motoneurone discharge. This consisted of a short latency (disynaptic), predominantly contralateral excitation in response to the first shock of the train, followed by a marked and long lasting inhibition. In contrast, vagal stimulation typically terminated inspiration hundreds of milliseconds after the onset of the stimulus train and was not preceded by a stereotyped pattern of phrenic motoneurone responses to single shocks. Transient short latency responses were obtained but were extremely small, requiring considerable excitation followed by a moderate bilateral depression of activity. Inspiration could be terminated with or without the presence of these short latency responses. These results indicate that superior laryngeal and vagal (presumably pulmonary stretch receptor) afferents have different projections to brainstem inspiratory neurones and may exert their effects on inspiratory duration through different, but as yet undefined, neural mechanisms.", "PMID": 441586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5301", "title": "Respiratory stimulation by angiotensin II.", "content": "The changes in breathing accompanying increases in arterial pressure caused by intravenous injections of angiotensin II were examined in dogs anaesthetized with chloralose, and in unanaesthetized rabbits. They were compared with the effects on breathing caused when the alpha-adrenergic vasoconstrictor, phenylephrine, or inflation of an aortic balloon were used to raise blood pressure to comparable levels. Phenylephrine and balloon inflation always depressed breathing: this depression was secondary to the increase in arterial pressure and was abolished by denervation of the arterial baroreceptors. In every animal ventilation was greater with angiotensin II than it was at a comparable blood pressure achieved with phenylephrine or balloon inflation. When compared with control levels of ventilation, however, angiotensin II sometimes caused an increase in breathing, sometimes a reduction, and sometimes had little effect. When both carotid sinus and vagus nerves were cut, angiotensin II consistently stimulated breathing. This shows that angiotensin II has an independent stimulating effect on ventilation which cannot be attributed to inhibition of any baroreceptor-mediated respiratory restraint nor to stimulation of either arterial chemoreceptors or intrathoracic receptors which run to the CNS through the vagus.", "contents": "Respiratory stimulation by angiotensin II. The changes in breathing accompanying increases in arterial pressure caused by intravenous injections of angiotensin II were examined in dogs anaesthetized with chloralose, and in unanaesthetized rabbits. They were compared with the effects on breathing caused when the alpha-adrenergic vasoconstrictor, phenylephrine, or inflation of an aortic balloon were used to raise blood pressure to comparable levels. Phenylephrine and balloon inflation always depressed breathing: this depression was secondary to the increase in arterial pressure and was abolished by denervation of the arterial baroreceptors. In every animal ventilation was greater with angiotensin II than it was at a comparable blood pressure achieved with phenylephrine or balloon inflation. When compared with control levels of ventilation, however, angiotensin II sometimes caused an increase in breathing, sometimes a reduction, and sometimes had little effect. When both carotid sinus and vagus nerves were cut, angiotensin II consistently stimulated breathing. This shows that angiotensin II has an independent stimulating effect on ventilation which cannot be attributed to inhibition of any baroreceptor-mediated respiratory restraint nor to stimulation of either arterial chemoreceptors or intrathoracic receptors which run to the CNS through the vagus.", "PMID": 441587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5302", "title": "Acclimatization of newborn rats and guinea pigs to 3000 to 5000 m simulated altitudes.", "content": "Two species of newborn rodents (guinea pigs and rats) were acclimatized to simulated altitudes of 3000 to 6000 m during 2 to 8 weeks after birth. Body weight increase was significantly retarded in both species at altitudes of 5000 m and higher. Heart weight relative to body weight increased by 50% at 3000 m and 300% at 5000 m (after 7 weeks) in rats but was only 17% increased even at 5000 (6 weeks) in guinea pigs. Relative lung weights increased by 40% at 3000 m in rats and 5000 m in guinea pigs; at 5000 m rats showed a 130% increase. Hb-concentration increase (20%) was not significantly different in rats at 3000 m and 5000 m, respectively, in guinea pigs it was below 10% at 3000 m and around 40% at 5000 m. Half saturation pressures of blood (P50) increased in rats significantly compared to controls but not in guinea pigs. The results suggest that relative maturity and high blood oxygen affinity in newborn guinea pigs favor high altitude acclimatization. Immaturity of newborn rats, their low blood oxygen affinity and immature enzyme patterns are considered as reasons for the smaller resistance against high altitude stress compared to guinea pigs.", "contents": "Acclimatization of newborn rats and guinea pigs to 3000 to 5000 m simulated altitudes. Two species of newborn rodents (guinea pigs and rats) were acclimatized to simulated altitudes of 3000 to 6000 m during 2 to 8 weeks after birth. Body weight increase was significantly retarded in both species at altitudes of 5000 m and higher. Heart weight relative to body weight increased by 50% at 3000 m and 300% at 5000 m (after 7 weeks) in rats but was only 17% increased even at 5000 (6 weeks) in guinea pigs. Relative lung weights increased by 40% at 3000 m in rats and 5000 m in guinea pigs; at 5000 m rats showed a 130% increase. Hb-concentration increase (20%) was not significantly different in rats at 3000 m and 5000 m, respectively, in guinea pigs it was below 10% at 3000 m and around 40% at 5000 m. Half saturation pressures of blood (P50) increased in rats significantly compared to controls but not in guinea pigs. The results suggest that relative maturity and high blood oxygen affinity in newborn guinea pigs favor high altitude acclimatization. Immaturity of newborn rats, their low blood oxygen affinity and immature enzyme patterns are considered as reasons for the smaller resistance against high altitude stress compared to guinea pigs.", "PMID": 441588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5303", "title": "Long-term studies on therapy and tolerance of ketoprofen.", "content": "The therapeutic value of non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents for therapy of rheumatoid arthritis is discussed and a long-term study is described which was carried out for up to 12 monts on tolerance of ketoprofen compared with indomethacin. Objective laboratory data were used as criteria for possible influence on organ function. No abnormalities in renal and liver function were observed.", "contents": "Long-term studies on therapy and tolerance of ketoprofen. The therapeutic value of non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents for therapy of rheumatoid arthritis is discussed and a long-term study is described which was carried out for up to 12 monts on tolerance of ketoprofen compared with indomethacin. Objective laboratory data were used as criteria for possible influence on organ function. No abnormalities in renal and liver function were observed.", "PMID": 441625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5304", "title": "Prospective chromosomal study of 30 patients undergoing 90Y synovectomy.", "content": "Chromosome studies were performed on 30 patients undergoing 90Y synovectomy before and after therapy. It was observed that overall there was a small but significant rise from 0.33% to 0.87% in the frequency of cells with specific chromosome aberrations following treatment. These findings agree well with those of other surveys. Analysis of individual results show that, of the 30 patients, only 10 showed chromosome damage that could be attributed unequivocally to the 90Y therapy.", "contents": "Prospective chromosomal study of 30 patients undergoing 90Y synovectomy. Chromosome studies were performed on 30 patients undergoing 90Y synovectomy before and after therapy. It was observed that overall there was a small but significant rise from 0.33% to 0.87% in the frequency of cells with specific chromosome aberrations following treatment. These findings agree well with those of other surveys. Analysis of individual results show that, of the 30 patients, only 10 showed chromosome damage that could be attributed unequivocally to the 90Y therapy.", "PMID": 441629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5305", "title": "Social implications of rheumatoid arthritis in young mothers.", "content": "A brief survey of the difficulties facing a mother of pre-school children has been made. The time from 1 to 2 1/2 years is probably most demanding of the mother's patience and energy. Much can be done to support the family by adequate control of the disease, splinting and sparing of involved joints and provision of an easily maintained home, children's clothes and attention to environmental design. Domestic help, education of the husband, playgroup for the child and correct family spacing are all helpful.", "contents": "Social implications of rheumatoid arthritis in young mothers. A brief survey of the difficulties facing a mother of pre-school children has been made. The time from 1 to 2 1/2 years is probably most demanding of the mother's patience and energy. Much can be done to support the family by adequate control of the disease, splinting and sparing of involved joints and provision of an easily maintained home, children's clothes and attention to environmental design. Domestic help, education of the husband, playgroup for the child and correct family spacing are all helpful.", "PMID": 441636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5306", "title": "Rehabilitation in juvenile chronic arthritis.", "content": "Rehabilitation or, in the case of young children, habilitation, begins with an appraisal of the type of disease process and therefore its possible outcome and the various problems that are likely to be encountered. This will need to be accompanied by a careful assessment of the whole family background, including the ability and willingness of the parents to carry out what is going to be a long, often difficult and very time-consuming programme. The principles of management are maintenance or improvement in position and function of joints, the learning of new skills consistent with the age of the child and the continuation of education so that the young adult is able to enter the world with as little physical and mental scarring as possible.", "contents": "Rehabilitation in juvenile chronic arthritis. Rehabilitation or, in the case of young children, habilitation, begins with an appraisal of the type of disease process and therefore its possible outcome and the various problems that are likely to be encountered. This will need to be accompanied by a careful assessment of the whole family background, including the ability and willingness of the parents to carry out what is going to be a long, often difficult and very time-consuming programme. The principles of management are maintenance or improvement in position and function of joints, the learning of new skills consistent with the age of the child and the continuation of education so that the young adult is able to enter the world with as little physical and mental scarring as possible.", "PMID": 441637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5307", "title": "Management of the rheumatoid hand.", "content": "The hand is often forgotten in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid disease in the hand, as elsewhere, can be divided into three phases: the early proliferative stage, the period of synovial regression and the stage of fixed deformity. Our studies suggest that the eventual pattern of hand deformity is related to the site, severity and sequence of synovial involvement. It is, therefore, likely that the results of early medical and surgical treatment of the rheumatoid hand will be more rewarding than those of late reconstructive procedures.", "contents": "Management of the rheumatoid hand. The hand is often forgotten in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid disease in the hand, as elsewhere, can be divided into three phases: the early proliferative stage, the period of synovial regression and the stage of fixed deformity. Our studies suggest that the eventual pattern of hand deformity is related to the site, severity and sequence of synovial involvement. It is, therefore, likely that the results of early medical and surgical treatment of the rheumatoid hand will be more rewarding than those of late reconstructive procedures.", "PMID": 441638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5308", "title": "Rehabilitation of the rheumatoid shoulder.", "content": "In the treatment of the rheumatoid shoulder physiotherapy allows the use of positions relieving the joint of discomfort and preventing deformities. Isometric contractions prevent muscular atrophy. An individual programme of gentle, progressive assisted mobilization permits the total rapid recovery of painful stiffness in simple synovitis and partial recovery of painful stiffness in simple synovitis and partial recovery in the more advanced arthritic lesions. Occupational therapy techniques are proposed to complete the effect of physiotherapy at a means of adapting the patient to the difficulties encountered in daily living.", "contents": "Rehabilitation of the rheumatoid shoulder. In the treatment of the rheumatoid shoulder physiotherapy allows the use of positions relieving the joint of discomfort and preventing deformities. Isometric contractions prevent muscular atrophy. An individual programme of gentle, progressive assisted mobilization permits the total rapid recovery of painful stiffness in simple synovitis and partial recovery of painful stiffness in simple synovitis and partial recovery in the more advanced arthritic lesions. Occupational therapy techniques are proposed to complete the effect of physiotherapy at a means of adapting the patient to the difficulties encountered in daily living.", "PMID": 441639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5309", "title": "The balneotherapy of rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Balneotherapy as a special form of physiotherapy has, with other measures, a definite place in the plan of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. The range of indication for a specific application is extremely wide. It can be introduced with different therapeutic objectives and be adapted to the situation prevailing during the course of rheumatoid arthritis. Careful analysis of the individual case is necessary, in which duration, intensity of the disease, activity of the disease process, progression and stage are taken into account. An acute episode of rheumatoid arthritis with high activity of the disease process is an absolute contraindication for any stimulus therapy. It this phase of the disease the most important aim of treatment is to stop the inflammation and ankylosis. The intensely stimulating sulphur and mud baths are indicated mainly in non-progressive forms of rheumatoid arthritis and in post-arthritic arthroses without or with low activity.", "contents": "The balneotherapy of rheumatoid arthritis. Balneotherapy as a special form of physiotherapy has, with other measures, a definite place in the plan of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. The range of indication for a specific application is extremely wide. It can be introduced with different therapeutic objectives and be adapted to the situation prevailing during the course of rheumatoid arthritis. Careful analysis of the individual case is necessary, in which duration, intensity of the disease, activity of the disease process, progression and stage are taken into account. An acute episode of rheumatoid arthritis with high activity of the disease process is an absolute contraindication for any stimulus therapy. It this phase of the disease the most important aim of treatment is to stop the inflammation and ankylosis. The intensely stimulating sulphur and mud baths are indicated mainly in non-progressive forms of rheumatoid arthritis and in post-arthritic arthroses without or with low activity.", "PMID": 441640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5310", "title": "The pharmacological properties of ketoprofen and its place in antirheumatic therapy.", "content": "The anti-inflammatory effects of ketoprofen (Alrheumat) in inflamed areas are achieved by antagonizing inflammation mediators or blocking their synthesis. In addition to this peripheral effect, central analgesic and antipyretic effects also are detectable. The pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of ketoprofen clearly distinguish it from other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. These properties could also explain the low number of side-effects.", "contents": "The pharmacological properties of ketoprofen and its place in antirheumatic therapy. The anti-inflammatory effects of ketoprofen (Alrheumat) in inflamed areas are achieved by antagonizing inflammation mediators or blocking their synthesis. In addition to this peripheral effect, central analgesic and antipyretic effects also are detectable. The pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of ketoprofen clearly distinguish it from other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. These properties could also explain the low number of side-effects.", "PMID": 441641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5311", "title": "[Differential diagnosis of contrast medium recesses of the renal pelvis or the renal calyx system (author's transl)].", "content": "Contrast medium recesses in the renal pelvis and calyx system of a retrograde pyelogram or urogram are due to many widely different pathologico-anatomical changes in the renal region. It is the aim of the present study to show up this multitude of differential diagnostic possibilities which lead to contrast medium recesses in the renal pelvis and renal calyx system of a pyelogram.", "contents": "[Differential diagnosis of contrast medium recesses of the renal pelvis or the renal calyx system (author's transl)]. Contrast medium recesses in the renal pelvis and calyx system of a retrograde pyelogram or urogram are due to many widely different pathologico-anatomical changes in the renal region. It is the aim of the present study to show up this multitude of differential diagnostic possibilities which lead to contrast medium recesses in the renal pelvis and renal calyx system of a pyelogram.", "PMID": 441642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5312", "title": "[Double-contrast examination in hypotonia in the operated stomach (author's transl)].", "content": "The technique of examination, as well as the extent and quality of visualisation are described, basing on a selected case material of patients who had been subjected to stomach surgery; the extensive possibilities of diagnosis are studied. Hypotonia and double contrast offer considerable advantages over the conventional examination of the operated stomach. Assessment of mucosal conditions, especially in the anastomosis range, is facilitated, thus offering a chance to improve the method of diagnosis. Hypotonic double-contrast examination should always be performed if there are no possibilities of endoscopic examination.", "contents": "[Double-contrast examination in hypotonia in the operated stomach (author's transl)]. The technique of examination, as well as the extent and quality of visualisation are described, basing on a selected case material of patients who had been subjected to stomach surgery; the extensive possibilities of diagnosis are studied. Hypotonia and double contrast offer considerable advantages over the conventional examination of the operated stomach. Assessment of mucosal conditions, especially in the anastomosis range, is facilitated, thus offering a chance to improve the method of diagnosis. Hypotonic double-contrast examination should always be performed if there are no possibilities of endoscopic examination.", "PMID": 441643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5313", "title": "[Pseudotumors after gastric and small bowel surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "After surgery of the upper gastrointestinal tract operation induced alterations with tumoraspect (pseudotumors) must be separated from malignomas. There are characteristic pseudotumors after the different operations that can be identified during the barium meal. If an early postoperativ roentgenexamination is available, the differential-diagnosis may be possible even in otherwise doubtful cases.", "contents": "[Pseudotumors after gastric and small bowel surgery (author's transl)]. After surgery of the upper gastrointestinal tract operation induced alterations with tumoraspect (pseudotumors) must be separated from malignomas. There are characteristic pseudotumors after the different operations that can be identified during the barium meal. If an early postoperativ roentgenexamination is available, the differential-diagnosis may be possible even in otherwise doubtful cases.", "PMID": 441644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5314", "title": "[The value of xerotomography of the lung and mediastinum in routine diagnosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Using controlled case material (n = 55), the weighted value of xerotomography is compared with that of conventional film tomography for the examination of mediastinum and lung. The validity of information of both methods for the final diagnosis is compared. In the visualisation of bronchial units and vascular structures, xerotomography is slightly superior to tomography with silver halogenide films, due to high degree of sharpness of detail, great object range and amplification of the marginal areas. Nodular hilar processes which are in spatial relationship to plane, pulmonary infiltrations or are overshadowed by the cardiac shadow, can be better clarified via conventional technique because of the differences in film density. Overshadowing of linear structures can simulate calcifications in the xeroradiographic image. In our opinion, a combination of film tomography in two planes with xerotomography in an optimal sectional plane can be recommended as a suitable procedure.", "contents": "[The value of xerotomography of the lung and mediastinum in routine diagnosis (author's transl)]. Using controlled case material (n = 55), the weighted value of xerotomography is compared with that of conventional film tomography for the examination of mediastinum and lung. The validity of information of both methods for the final diagnosis is compared. In the visualisation of bronchial units and vascular structures, xerotomography is slightly superior to tomography with silver halogenide films, due to high degree of sharpness of detail, great object range and amplification of the marginal areas. Nodular hilar processes which are in spatial relationship to plane, pulmonary infiltrations or are overshadowed by the cardiac shadow, can be better clarified via conventional technique because of the differences in film density. Overshadowing of linear structures can simulate calcifications in the xeroradiographic image. In our opinion, a combination of film tomography in two planes with xerotomography in an optimal sectional plane can be recommended as a suitable procedure.", "PMID": 441645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5315", "title": "[Differential diagnosis of gynaecomastia in the mammogram (author's transl)].", "content": "The purely clinical examination of swelling in the region of the male mammary gland involves a high error quota and must, therefore, be supplemented by other methods. Mammography has proved to be a reliable diagnostic method in the differential diagnosis of diseases of the mammary gland in the male; this method is of great importance in a positive sense as well. Gynaecomastia, with its typical criteria, must first of all be excluded. This enables the doctor to differentiate between various forms of gynaecomastia and to classify them into a kind of scheme. In all patients over 25 years of age, a carcinoma must be suspected particularly in case of a unilateral finding.", "contents": "[Differential diagnosis of gynaecomastia in the mammogram (author's transl)]. The purely clinical examination of swelling in the region of the male mammary gland involves a high error quota and must, therefore, be supplemented by other methods. Mammography has proved to be a reliable diagnostic method in the differential diagnosis of diseases of the mammary gland in the male; this method is of great importance in a positive sense as well. Gynaecomastia, with its typical criteria, must first of all be excluded. This enables the doctor to differentiate between various forms of gynaecomastia and to classify them into a kind of scheme. In all patients over 25 years of age, a carcinoma must be suspected particularly in case of a unilateral finding.", "PMID": 441646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5316", "title": "[Results of cervical discography compared with surgical findings (author's transl)].", "content": "In 220 patients in whom ventral fusion according to Cloward was performed because of traumatic or degenerative discopathy, the pre-surgery finding of discography was compared with the finding established during the operation. It was found that pre-operative discography enables to diagnose damage of the nucleus pulposus and anulus fibrosus, as well as tearing of the posterior and anterior longitudinal ligament. It is emphasized that in degenerative damage, escape of the contrast medium in ventral direction merely represents backflow of the contrast medium along the puncture channel and rarely represents rupture of the anterior longitudinal ligament. Side localisation is possible by means of the semioblique x-ray. In case of a traumatic damage, at least two disc spaces should be diagnosed.", "contents": "[Results of cervical discography compared with surgical findings (author's transl)]. In 220 patients in whom ventral fusion according to Cloward was performed because of traumatic or degenerative discopathy, the pre-surgery finding of discography was compared with the finding established during the operation. It was found that pre-operative discography enables to diagnose damage of the nucleus pulposus and anulus fibrosus, as well as tearing of the posterior and anterior longitudinal ligament. It is emphasized that in degenerative damage, escape of the contrast medium in ventral direction merely represents backflow of the contrast medium along the puncture channel and rarely represents rupture of the anterior longitudinal ligament. Side localisation is possible by means of the semioblique x-ray. In case of a traumatic damage, at least two disc spaces should be diagnosed.", "PMID": 441647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5317", "title": "[One year of computed tomography in radiological specialist practice (author's transl)].", "content": "After the introduction of computed tomography through G. Hounsfield and its clinical further development by J. Ambrose, this method of examination has proved its importance especially with regard to examination of the skull and brain. Our aim is to reflect the results of the first year of computed tomography in radiological specialist practice. Our radiological activity had covered the fields of general radiology and nuclear medicine at the time when computed tomography was introduced.", "contents": "[One year of computed tomography in radiological specialist practice (author's transl)]. After the introduction of computed tomography through G. Hounsfield and its clinical further development by J. Ambrose, this method of examination has proved its importance especially with regard to examination of the skull and brain. Our aim is to reflect the results of the first year of computed tomography in radiological specialist practice. Our radiological activity had covered the fields of general radiology and nuclear medicine at the time when computed tomography was introduced.", "PMID": 441648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5318", "title": "[The value of the chest radiograph in thoracic aortic dissection and traumatic rupture (author's transl)].", "content": "The plain chest radiographs of 40 patients with angiographically proven thoracic aortic dissection or traumatic rupture are analyzed retrospectively with regard to their value. Only in two cases completely normal findings were observed. In all other cases characteristic changes could be observed leading to an immediate aortography. The plain chest radiograph is very important in the decision whether and when an aortography has to be performed on clinical suspected patients.", "contents": "[The value of the chest radiograph in thoracic aortic dissection and traumatic rupture (author's transl)]. The plain chest radiographs of 40 patients with angiographically proven thoracic aortic dissection or traumatic rupture are analyzed retrospectively with regard to their value. Only in two cases completely normal findings were observed. In all other cases characteristic changes could be observed leading to an immediate aortography. The plain chest radiograph is very important in the decision whether and when an aortography has to be performed on clinical suspected patients.", "PMID": 441649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5319", "title": "[Acute left decompensation--significance of thoracic bed roentgenography for assessing pulmonary venous pressure (author's transl)].", "content": "25 thoracic bed x-ray films from 20 intensive-care patients were classified roentgenologically according to three degrees of severity of left decompensation, and compared with the end-diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure. Very good correlation was seen in 60% of the cases and a satisfactory agreement in 30%, whereas a discrepancy compared with haemodynamic parameters was observed in about 10% of the patients. Possibilities of explaining discrepancies are discussed within the framework of error analysis.", "contents": "[Acute left decompensation--significance of thoracic bed roentgenography for assessing pulmonary venous pressure (author's transl)]. 25 thoracic bed x-ray films from 20 intensive-care patients were classified roentgenologically according to three degrees of severity of left decompensation, and compared with the end-diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure. Very good correlation was seen in 60% of the cases and a satisfactory agreement in 30%, whereas a discrepancy compared with haemodynamic parameters was observed in about 10% of the patients. Possibilities of explaining discrepancies are discussed within the framework of error analysis.", "PMID": 441650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5320", "title": "[Results of female breast diagnostics (author's transl)].", "content": "A retrospective 2-years' study conducted in 3,563 patients showed that triple diagnostics involving clinic, mammography and puncture cytology occupies a central position in the diagnostics of the female breast, whereas plate thermography represents an additional method to clarify unclear clinical or mammographic findings. 88.9% of tumours were detected by means of a careful clinical examination. Over and above this, mammography enables identification of the occult carcinoma, which is extirpated in a controlled manner by means of preparation radiography. Puncture and cytology enable a nonsurgical clarification and treatment of cysts and are, therefore, an important control indicator of mastopathically changed mammae.", "contents": "[Results of female breast diagnostics (author's transl)]. A retrospective 2-years' study conducted in 3,563 patients showed that triple diagnostics involving clinic, mammography and puncture cytology occupies a central position in the diagnostics of the female breast, whereas plate thermography represents an additional method to clarify unclear clinical or mammographic findings. 88.9% of tumours were detected by means of a careful clinical examination. Over and above this, mammography enables identification of the occult carcinoma, which is extirpated in a controlled manner by means of preparation radiography. Puncture and cytology enable a nonsurgical clarification and treatment of cysts and are, therefore, an important control indicator of mastopathically changed mammae.", "PMID": 441651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5321", "title": "[Mass radiography via mammography in women with enhanced risk of cancer of the breast (author's transl)].", "content": "Mammographic and clinical examination of 1,751 women with one or several risk factors of the screening programme revealed 5.2% carcinomas but only 1.6% occult carcinomas. The results are not better than those of mass radiographies of non-selected groups of women. The article discusses the course of the examination, radiation load, frequency rates of mastopathies and their relation to endocrinological factors, as well as cost and procedure.", "contents": "[Mass radiography via mammography in women with enhanced risk of cancer of the breast (author's transl)]. Mammographic and clinical examination of 1,751 women with one or several risk factors of the screening programme revealed 5.2% carcinomas but only 1.6% occult carcinomas. The results are not better than those of mass radiographies of non-selected groups of women. The article discusses the course of the examination, radiation load, frequency rates of mastopathies and their relation to endocrinological factors, as well as cost and procedure.", "PMID": 441652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5322", "title": "[Ascending and descending myelography with water-soluble contrast medium. A report on thoracic and cervical metrizamid-myelography in 200 patients (author's transl)].", "content": "Ascending and descending thoracic and/or cervical metrizamid myelographies were conducted in 200 patients of all age groups. The apparatus used was of the type usually available in x-ray departments. Diagnostic results were good, or at least satisfactory, for a broad spectrum of diseases. No additional myelographic examinations using conventional contrast media were necessary. Metrizamid myelography represents a successful compromise between air and iodine-oil myelography, ie it combined their essential advantages, absorbability of the contrast medium, or favourable contrast. It is superior to both methods in respect of clarity of detail. The incidence of complications can be kept low mainly by limiting the amount of contrast medium or the concentrations used, as well as by employing a careful examination technique. Previous experience in myelography with oily contrast media will prove very useful.", "contents": "[Ascending and descending myelography with water-soluble contrast medium. A report on thoracic and cervical metrizamid-myelography in 200 patients (author's transl)]. Ascending and descending thoracic and/or cervical metrizamid myelographies were conducted in 200 patients of all age groups. The apparatus used was of the type usually available in x-ray departments. Diagnostic results were good, or at least satisfactory, for a broad spectrum of diseases. No additional myelographic examinations using conventional contrast media were necessary. Metrizamid myelography represents a successful compromise between air and iodine-oil myelography, ie it combined their essential advantages, absorbability of the contrast medium, or favourable contrast. It is superior to both methods in respect of clarity of detail. The incidence of complications can be kept low mainly by limiting the amount of contrast medium or the concentrations used, as well as by employing a careful examination technique. Previous experience in myelography with oily contrast media will prove very useful.", "PMID": 441653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5323", "title": "[Transversal blurring in tomography (author's transl)].", "content": "The article discusses the factors which govern blurring in transversal tomography. The amount of blurring is a multiple of the degree of blurring which occurs in normal horizontal tomography, assuming the usual conditions, ie small angle of incidence in case of fixed focus, and large diameter of rotation in case of a rotating arrangement. Hence, only large details will show up in transversal tomography, in contrast to the results obtained via comparable horizontal tomograms.", "contents": "[Transversal blurring in tomography (author's transl)]. The article discusses the factors which govern blurring in transversal tomography. The amount of blurring is a multiple of the degree of blurring which occurs in normal horizontal tomography, assuming the usual conditions, ie small angle of incidence in case of fixed focus, and large diameter of rotation in case of a rotating arrangement. Hence, only large details will show up in transversal tomography, in contrast to the results obtained via comparable horizontal tomograms.", "PMID": 441654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5324", "title": "Panoramic orthopantomography for patients with multiple injuries. A preliminary report.", "content": "The text introduces an apparatus for panoramic tomographies enabling examination of supine patients. The apparatus is suitable for examination of patients with multiple injuries and suspected jaw fractures.", "contents": "Panoramic orthopantomography for patients with multiple injuries. A preliminary report. The text introduces an apparatus for panoramic tomographies enabling examination of supine patients. The apparatus is suitable for examination of patients with multiple injuries and suspected jaw fractures.", "PMID": 441655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5325", "title": "[Formation of a large blister with subsequent necrosis of the skin following paravenous contrast medium injection at the dorsum of the foot in a patient with oedema and deep phlebothrombosis (author's transl)].", "content": "In a female patient with an oedema of the leg as a result of deep phlebothrombosis, a great blister developed at the dorsum of the foot proximal to the site of injection following phlebography effected by paravasal contrast medium injection. The blister was transparent and contained clear, serous liquid. Skin necrosis developed at this site which took months to heal. The reason is sought in a stasis of contrast medium caused by the oedema. It is suggested that in future cases of this kind, cortisone treatment should be attempted.", "contents": "[Formation of a large blister with subsequent necrosis of the skin following paravenous contrast medium injection at the dorsum of the foot in a patient with oedema and deep phlebothrombosis (author's transl)]. In a female patient with an oedema of the leg as a result of deep phlebothrombosis, a great blister developed at the dorsum of the foot proximal to the site of injection following phlebography effected by paravasal contrast medium injection. The blister was transparent and contained clear, serous liquid. Skin necrosis developed at this site which took months to heal. The reason is sought in a stasis of contrast medium caused by the oedema. It is suggested that in future cases of this kind, cortisone treatment should be attempted.", "PMID": 441656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5326", "title": "[Mastocyte osteoporosis].", "content": "We present five cases of severe osteoporosis accompanied by a skin and/or bone mastocytosis. The rarity of mastocytosis demonstrates that these cases are not the result of simple coincidence, especially since none of them involves other general of phospho-calcium anomalies that could explain the demineralization. The latter is accompanied by a high level of histaminemia or histaminuria, a non-specific anomaly. Mastocyte osteoporosis involves a great many unknown factors on the physiopathological level, but in practice it is necessary to look for a mastocytosis when confronted with a severe osteoporosis that appears to be primary. Cytostatic treatment (chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide) seems capable of improving the evolution of the bone disease.", "contents": "[Mastocyte osteoporosis]. We present five cases of severe osteoporosis accompanied by a skin and/or bone mastocytosis. The rarity of mastocytosis demonstrates that these cases are not the result of simple coincidence, especially since none of them involves other general of phospho-calcium anomalies that could explain the demineralization. The latter is accompanied by a high level of histaminemia or histaminuria, a non-specific anomaly. Mastocyte osteoporosis involves a great many unknown factors on the physiopathological level, but in practice it is necessary to look for a mastocytosis when confronted with a severe osteoporosis that appears to be primary. Cytostatic treatment (chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide) seems capable of improving the evolution of the bone disease.", "PMID": 441665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5327", "title": "[Partial algodystrophy].", "content": "The authors describe, on the basis of 7 cases, a special form of decalcifying algodystrophy not described in the literature, characterized by a very localized pain beginning gradually, or more often suddenly. It is of mechanical or mixed type, accompanied by local, pseudo-inflammatory signs being either apparent or discrete, very elective and very sharp pain upon palpation of a very limited area of a condyle or a tibial plate, with hyperfixation located through scintigraphy with technetium 99m polyphosphates, and regressing either spontaneously, or more quickly under treatment, of which thyrocalcitone is the essential part, without undergoing a phase of intense loco-regional demineralization. This form of algodystrophy, that they propose to call partial algodystrophy, can, like the other forms of algodystrophy, appear in monofocal or plurifocal form, either straight off or at a distance from the first incidence, which leads this new radioclinical type to be considered a simple form of algodystrophy of the limbs, midway between the types without radiological anomaly during development and the complete and extensive ones with major radiological signs. Finally, they underline the great value or scintigraphy in diagnosing this form of algodystrophy and algodystrophy without radiologic anomaly.", "contents": "[Partial algodystrophy]. The authors describe, on the basis of 7 cases, a special form of decalcifying algodystrophy not described in the literature, characterized by a very localized pain beginning gradually, or more often suddenly. It is of mechanical or mixed type, accompanied by local, pseudo-inflammatory signs being either apparent or discrete, very elective and very sharp pain upon palpation of a very limited area of a condyle or a tibial plate, with hyperfixation located through scintigraphy with technetium 99m polyphosphates, and regressing either spontaneously, or more quickly under treatment, of which thyrocalcitone is the essential part, without undergoing a phase of intense loco-regional demineralization. This form of algodystrophy, that they propose to call partial algodystrophy, can, like the other forms of algodystrophy, appear in monofocal or plurifocal form, either straight off or at a distance from the first incidence, which leads this new radioclinical type to be considered a simple form of algodystrophy of the limbs, midway between the types without radiological anomaly during development and the complete and extensive ones with major radiological signs. Finally, they underline the great value or scintigraphy in diagnosing this form of algodystrophy and algodystrophy without radiologic anomaly.", "PMID": 441666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5328", "title": "[Idiopathic hypercalciuria. Correlative study of bone tissue and phosphocalcium investigations].", "content": "The authors report on the clinical, biological and radiological anomalies observed in a series of 42 cases of idiopathic hypercalciuria. An histological bone study showed \"osteomalacia\" type changes (an increase in the osteoid volume and a decrease in the mineralization speed). The Ca45 isotope studies showed that there was an exchangable pool of calcium and a turnover, which was generally low. A study of the kidney functions revealed a decrease in the tubular reabsorption of calcium, while that of phosphorous remained within normal limits. There was no case of hyperparathyroidism in this series. The authors pose the question of whether the failure of calcium to settle on the tissues and the lack of tubular reabsorption of calcium, does not result from the relatively ineffective action of the endogenous circulating parathyroid hormone.", "contents": "[Idiopathic hypercalciuria. Correlative study of bone tissue and phosphocalcium investigations]. The authors report on the clinical, biological and radiological anomalies observed in a series of 42 cases of idiopathic hypercalciuria. An histological bone study showed \"osteomalacia\" type changes (an increase in the osteoid volume and a decrease in the mineralization speed). The Ca45 isotope studies showed that there was an exchangable pool of calcium and a turnover, which was generally low. A study of the kidney functions revealed a decrease in the tubular reabsorption of calcium, while that of phosphorous remained within normal limits. There was no case of hyperparathyroidism in this series. The authors pose the question of whether the failure of calcium to settle on the tissues and the lack of tubular reabsorption of calcium, does not result from the relatively ineffective action of the endogenous circulating parathyroid hormone.", "PMID": 441670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5329", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in patients with alcoholic liver diseases.", "content": "The mean plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level was found to be significantly increased in 66 patients with alcoholic liver disease (4.4 micrograms/1) compared with the mean CEA level in 164 healthy blood donors (1.6 micrograms/1, p less than 0.001). Eighteen of the patients (27%) had values above our upper normal values of 5 micrograms/1, compared with 3 of 41 (7%) in a group of patients with non-alcoholic liver diseases. On the other hand, the mean CEA values in the two groups did not differ significantly. The CEA level remained unchanged in patients who continued drinking. However, in 20 patients who stopped drinking, the mean CEA levels dropped significantly from 6.6 micrograms/1 to 3.7 micrograms/1. Concomitant fluctuations were seen in CEA, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (gamma-GT), asparate aminotransferase (ASAT), and alkaline phosphatase, although a significant correlation was found only between CEA level and the level of gamma-GT (r = 0.32, p less than 0.02). The correlation between CEA and gamma-GT was best in 41 patients without complicating disorders (r = 0.55, p less than 0.001). CEA was significantly increased in patients with complicating disorders. Much of the increase of CEA in many patients with alcoholic liver disease might be secondary to complicating disorders in the respiratory and/or gastrointestinal tracts. This could possible explain why patients with alcoholic liver disease more often than other patients with benign diseases have elevated CEA.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in patients with alcoholic liver diseases. The mean plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level was found to be significantly increased in 66 patients with alcoholic liver disease (4.4 micrograms/1) compared with the mean CEA level in 164 healthy blood donors (1.6 micrograms/1, p less than 0.001). Eighteen of the patients (27%) had values above our upper normal values of 5 micrograms/1, compared with 3 of 41 (7%) in a group of patients with non-alcoholic liver diseases. On the other hand, the mean CEA values in the two groups did not differ significantly. The CEA level remained unchanged in patients who continued drinking. However, in 20 patients who stopped drinking, the mean CEA levels dropped significantly from 6.6 micrograms/1 to 3.7 micrograms/1. Concomitant fluctuations were seen in CEA, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (gamma-GT), asparate aminotransferase (ASAT), and alkaline phosphatase, although a significant correlation was found only between CEA level and the level of gamma-GT (r = 0.32, p less than 0.02). The correlation between CEA and gamma-GT was best in 41 patients without complicating disorders (r = 0.55, p less than 0.001). CEA was significantly increased in patients with complicating disorders. Much of the increase of CEA in many patients with alcoholic liver disease might be secondary to complicating disorders in the respiratory and/or gastrointestinal tracts. This could possible explain why patients with alcoholic liver disease more often than other patients with benign diseases have elevated CEA.", "PMID": 441676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5330", "title": "Determination of HBeAg by radioimmunoassay: prognostic implications in hepatitis B.", "content": "A radioimmunoassay was used to determine the presence of the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and anti-HBe in the serum of 12 hepatitis B patients, who were follofed from an early phase of the illness into convalescence. The duration of detectable HBeAg in serum from these patients, in all ow whom the disease ran a normal course, was compared with the persistence of HBeAg in serum of nine patients with a protracted course and persistence of HBsAg in serum for more than 1 year. None of the hepatitis B patients with a normal course of the disease had HBeAg demonstrable for more than 9 weeks after the onset of illness (mean 5.4 weeks), whereas all patients developing chronic hepatitis had HBeAg in serum for more than 1 year after the onset of illness. These findings indicate that the detection of HBeAg in serum by radioimmunoassay for 10 weeks or more after the onset of illness implies a great risk of progression of the hepatitis B infection to chronic liver disease.", "contents": "Determination of HBeAg by radioimmunoassay: prognostic implications in hepatitis B. A radioimmunoassay was used to determine the presence of the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and anti-HBe in the serum of 12 hepatitis B patients, who were follofed from an early phase of the illness into convalescence. The duration of detectable HBeAg in serum from these patients, in all ow whom the disease ran a normal course, was compared with the persistence of HBeAg in serum of nine patients with a protracted course and persistence of HBsAg in serum for more than 1 year. None of the hepatitis B patients with a normal course of the disease had HBeAg demonstrable for more than 9 weeks after the onset of illness (mean 5.4 weeks), whereas all patients developing chronic hepatitis had HBeAg in serum for more than 1 year after the onset of illness. These findings indicate that the detection of HBeAg in serum by radioimmunoassay for 10 weeks or more after the onset of illness implies a great risk of progression of the hepatitis B infection to chronic liver disease.", "PMID": 441677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5331", "title": "Time course and sensitivity of secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion and blood flow in the anesthetized dog.", "content": "Time-effect relationship and sensitivity of pancreatic exocrine secretion and pancreatic blood flow were established, to test the supposition that blood flow to the pancreas is controlled by the secretory process. Pancreatic exocrine secretion rate was stimulated by incremental iv doses of secretin (Karolinska, 0.001--4 U/kg) in pentobarbital anesthetized dogs. Arterial pancreatic blood flow was measured by electromagnetic flowmeters; secretion rate was determined by measurement of frequency of consecutive secretory drops. Exocrine secretion rate and blood flow increased markedly. Secretion responded at a dose level 3-7 times lower than blood flow did. So at low secretory performance, the pancreas seemed to be well provided with basal blood supply. At moderate and high secretory levels blood flow did increase, but the flow increase was seen 16-22 sec before the secretion increase. So the additional support of blood flow in the secretory process occurred during the cellular preparation and during the start of the secretion increase. This suggests that secretion increase and blood flow increase are mediated by independent processes or receptors, but these processes seem to cooperate in processing the pancreatic juice.", "contents": "Time course and sensitivity of secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion and blood flow in the anesthetized dog. Time-effect relationship and sensitivity of pancreatic exocrine secretion and pancreatic blood flow were established, to test the supposition that blood flow to the pancreas is controlled by the secretory process. Pancreatic exocrine secretion rate was stimulated by incremental iv doses of secretin (Karolinska, 0.001--4 U/kg) in pentobarbital anesthetized dogs. Arterial pancreatic blood flow was measured by electromagnetic flowmeters; secretion rate was determined by measurement of frequency of consecutive secretory drops. Exocrine secretion rate and blood flow increased markedly. Secretion responded at a dose level 3-7 times lower than blood flow did. So at low secretory performance, the pancreas seemed to be well provided with basal blood supply. At moderate and high secretory levels blood flow did increase, but the flow increase was seen 16-22 sec before the secretion increase. So the additional support of blood flow in the secretory process occurred during the cellular preparation and during the start of the secretion increase. This suggests that secretion increase and blood flow increase are mediated by independent processes or receptors, but these processes seem to cooperate in processing the pancreatic juice.", "PMID": 441678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5332", "title": "Plasma gastrin concentrations following sham feeding in duodenal ulcer patients.", "content": "Sham feeding experiments were performed in 20 duodenal ulcer (DU) patients by using adequate sham feeding and modified sham feeding (the 'chew-and-spit' technique). A 15-min sham feeding induced a marked secretion of gastric acid but only an insignificant increase in total gastrin or in gastrin17 concentrations in plasma. Nor did prolonged sham feeding (30 min) with intragastric neutralization significantly increase the gastrin concentrations. We conclude that sham feeding in DU patients induces a release of recognized gastrin components in amounts that are barely detectable radioimmunologically. Therefore, the acid secretory effects of vagally released gastrins in DU patients remains to be established.", "contents": "Plasma gastrin concentrations following sham feeding in duodenal ulcer patients. Sham feeding experiments were performed in 20 duodenal ulcer (DU) patients by using adequate sham feeding and modified sham feeding (the 'chew-and-spit' technique). A 15-min sham feeding induced a marked secretion of gastric acid but only an insignificant increase in total gastrin or in gastrin17 concentrations in plasma. Nor did prolonged sham feeding (30 min) with intragastric neutralization significantly increase the gastrin concentrations. We conclude that sham feeding in DU patients induces a release of recognized gastrin components in amounts that are barely detectable radioimmunologically. Therefore, the acid secretory effects of vagally released gastrins in DU patients remains to be established.", "PMID": 441679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5333", "title": "Cephalic phase of pancreatic-polypeptide secretion studied by sham feeding in man.", "content": "The effect of sham feeding on pancreatic-polypeptide (PP) secretion was studied in 26 duodenal ulcer (DU) patients and in 8 healthy subjects. Modified sham feeding (MSF) by the 'chew and spit' technique induced a rapid increase in plasma concentrations of PP both in DU patients, 56 (2-138) pmol/l, and in the healthy subjects, 24 (2-45) pmol/l, median peak-increment and range. Four out of 26 DU patients and 2 out of 8 healthy subjects did not show any PP response to MSF. The PP response to MSF was abolished by pretreatment with atropine, or benzilonium, a quarternary anti-muscarinic agent with minimal cerebral actions. The PP response to MSF was not dependent on the gastric acid response, since a PP response to sham feeding was found in 13 out of 17 patients with selectively denervated parietal cell area, and thus, without acid response. During adequate sham feeding, in which the food is also swallowed but does not reach the stomach, the PP increment, 100 (81-129) pmol/l, was larger than during MSF in the same patients, 51 (8-78) pmol/l, median and total range, P less than 0.05, N = 7. No correlation was found between the PP and acid responses to sham feeding. It is concluded that cephalic stimulation provoked by tasting, chewing and swallowing is a major stimulus in the initial, rapid PP response during a meal; and that the PP cells are probably stimulated directly by a cholinergic mechanism.", "contents": "Cephalic phase of pancreatic-polypeptide secretion studied by sham feeding in man. The effect of sham feeding on pancreatic-polypeptide (PP) secretion was studied in 26 duodenal ulcer (DU) patients and in 8 healthy subjects. Modified sham feeding (MSF) by the 'chew and spit' technique induced a rapid increase in plasma concentrations of PP both in DU patients, 56 (2-138) pmol/l, and in the healthy subjects, 24 (2-45) pmol/l, median peak-increment and range. Four out of 26 DU patients and 2 out of 8 healthy subjects did not show any PP response to MSF. The PP response to MSF was abolished by pretreatment with atropine, or benzilonium, a quarternary anti-muscarinic agent with minimal cerebral actions. The PP response to MSF was not dependent on the gastric acid response, since a PP response to sham feeding was found in 13 out of 17 patients with selectively denervated parietal cell area, and thus, without acid response. During adequate sham feeding, in which the food is also swallowed but does not reach the stomach, the PP increment, 100 (81-129) pmol/l, was larger than during MSF in the same patients, 51 (8-78) pmol/l, median and total range, P less than 0.05, N = 7. No correlation was found between the PP and acid responses to sham feeding. It is concluded that cephalic stimulation provoked by tasting, chewing and swallowing is a major stimulus in the initial, rapid PP response during a meal; and that the PP cells are probably stimulated directly by a cholinergic mechanism.", "PMID": 441680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5334", "title": "The lactulose hydrogen breath test as a diagnostic test for small-bowel bacterial overgrowth.", "content": "The lactulose hydrogen breath test has been evaluated as a diagnostic test for small-bowel bacterial overgrowth using the 14C-glycocholate breath test for comparison. Twenty-seven patients with suspected bacterial overgrowth and 37 control patients were studied. The lactulose test was positive in 8 out of 9 patients with Subsequently proven bacterial overgrowth, all of whom had positive 14C-glycocholate tests. However, 6 patients with ileal disease or resection had positive 14C-glycocholate tests but negative lactulose tests. subsequent bacteriological study of duodenal juice from these patients was negative. Negative results were obtained by both tests in the remaining 12 patients, none of whom were subsequently shown to have bacterial overgrowth. All 37 control subjects had negative lactulose tests. The lactulose breath test is a simple and promising diagnostic test for the detection of small-bowel bacterial overgrowth and, unlike the 14C-glycocholate test, has the advantage of being able to distinguish bacterial overgrowth from ileal disease.", "contents": "The lactulose hydrogen breath test as a diagnostic test for small-bowel bacterial overgrowth. The lactulose hydrogen breath test has been evaluated as a diagnostic test for small-bowel bacterial overgrowth using the 14C-glycocholate breath test for comparison. Twenty-seven patients with suspected bacterial overgrowth and 37 control patients were studied. The lactulose test was positive in 8 out of 9 patients with Subsequently proven bacterial overgrowth, all of whom had positive 14C-glycocholate tests. However, 6 patients with ileal disease or resection had positive 14C-glycocholate tests but negative lactulose tests. subsequent bacteriological study of duodenal juice from these patients was negative. Negative results were obtained by both tests in the remaining 12 patients, none of whom were subsequently shown to have bacterial overgrowth. All 37 control subjects had negative lactulose tests. The lactulose breath test is a simple and promising diagnostic test for the detection of small-bowel bacterial overgrowth and, unlike the 14C-glycocholate test, has the advantage of being able to distinguish bacterial overgrowth from ileal disease.", "PMID": 441681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5335", "title": "Lymph and blood enzymes and pathologic alterations in canine experimental pancreatitis after administration of benzo-pyrones.", "content": "The effect of Venalot, a combination of two benzo-pyrones, on canine experimental acute pancreatitis was examined. Activities of lymph and blood plasma enzymes, thoracic duct lymph flow, and morphological changes of the pancreas were compared with those of a control group of dogs. The drug was found to enhance the removal of amylase and trypsin via lymph from the gland and to decrease the elevation of plasma amylase and lactate dehydrogenase. When administered simultaneously with the induction of pancreatitis, benzo-pyrones were effective in the reduction of pancreatic edema and necroses.", "contents": "Lymph and blood enzymes and pathologic alterations in canine experimental pancreatitis after administration of benzo-pyrones. The effect of Venalot, a combination of two benzo-pyrones, on canine experimental acute pancreatitis was examined. Activities of lymph and blood plasma enzymes, thoracic duct lymph flow, and morphological changes of the pancreas were compared with those of a control group of dogs. The drug was found to enhance the removal of amylase and trypsin via lymph from the gland and to decrease the elevation of plasma amylase and lactate dehydrogenase. When administered simultaneously with the induction of pancreatitis, benzo-pyrones were effective in the reduction of pancreatic edema and necroses.", "PMID": 441682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5336", "title": "Kinetics of the agglutination of IgG-coated latex particles by C1q: the influence of heat-labile serum components.", "content": "Interaction between human C1q and IgG coated latex particles has been studied by means of a standard aggregometer equipment. A dose-dependent agglutination was observed and 100 ng of C1q were readily detected. The kinetics of the agglutination was also monitored. Serum, partially purified C1, and high molecular weight fractions from Sephadex G-200 fractionated serum produced agglutination only in the presence of EDTA. In the absence of this chelator these products disintegrated preformed C1q-IgG-latex particle agglutinates. This disagglutinating principle is heat-sensitive and tentatively macromolecular C1 dependent. The most probable basis of the activity is the competition between C1, with a high affinity for IgG particles, and C1q. The inability of C1 to induce particle agglutination might be caused by the C1 subunits C1r and C1s sterically inhibiting the subunit C1q to bridge between the particles.", "contents": "Kinetics of the agglutination of IgG-coated latex particles by C1q: the influence of heat-labile serum components. Interaction between human C1q and IgG coated latex particles has been studied by means of a standard aggregometer equipment. A dose-dependent agglutination was observed and 100 ng of C1q were readily detected. The kinetics of the agglutination was also monitored. Serum, partially purified C1, and high molecular weight fractions from Sephadex G-200 fractionated serum produced agglutination only in the presence of EDTA. In the absence of this chelator these products disintegrated preformed C1q-IgG-latex particle agglutinates. This disagglutinating principle is heat-sensitive and tentatively macromolecular C1 dependent. The most probable basis of the activity is the competition between C1, with a high affinity for IgG particles, and C1q. The inability of C1 to induce particle agglutination might be caused by the C1 subunits C1r and C1s sterically inhibiting the subunit C1q to bridge between the particles.", "PMID": 441683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5337", "title": "Assessing vulnerability to schizophrenia or manic-depression in borderline states.", "content": "In a discussion of the article on genetic determinants of borderline conditions by Siever and Gunderson, a phenotypic continuum between pure schizotypal and pure affective conditions is postulated. Many \"borderline\" cases are seen as attenuated forms of schizophrenia, schizoaffective psychosis, or manic-depression. A Venn diagram illustrates differences among syndromes described by Gunderson, Kernberg, Spitzer, and Klein (\"hysteroid dysphoria\"). Evidence is presented suggesting that Gunderson's borderline syndrome contains more schizotypal individuals than Kernberg's, whereas hysteroid dysphoria is nearer the affective pole of the continuum. A second diagram illustrates how the strength and nature of the genetic factors vary according to the syndrome.", "contents": "Assessing vulnerability to schizophrenia or manic-depression in borderline states. In a discussion of the article on genetic determinants of borderline conditions by Siever and Gunderson, a phenotypic continuum between pure schizotypal and pure affective conditions is postulated. Many \"borderline\" cases are seen as attenuated forms of schizophrenia, schizoaffective psychosis, or manic-depression. A Venn diagram illustrates differences among syndromes described by Gunderson, Kernberg, Spitzer, and Klein (\"hysteroid dysphoria\"). Evidence is presented suggesting that Gunderson's borderline syndrome contains more schizotypal individuals than Kernberg's, whereas hysteroid dysphoria is nearer the affective pole of the continuum. A second diagram illustrates how the strength and nature of the genetic factors vary according to the syndrome.", "PMID": 441684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5338", "title": "The treatment of female borderlines.", "content": "Failure to complete needed operations in the separation-individuation process during early childhood development is increasingly suspected of being a major source of borderline pathology. Building on Mahler's descriptions of this process as an interpersonal operation between child and mother, we have directly intervened in the patient-mother relationship in a small group of adult female borderlines. All patients displayed rapid and apparently complete clearing of borderline symptoms following limited conjoint therapy. Although neuroses remained, the criteria for a borderline diagnosis were no longer met. Treatment results with six women who had pretreatment and posttreatment psychological testing are reported. Testing confirmed clinical impressions of significant shifts in psychological defenses as well as perceptions of self and others. Fundamentals of this approach are discussed briefly, and observations regarding possible borderline pathology, mother-daughter interactions, family dynamics, and therapeutic philosophy are made. This approach appears not only to be effective but offers promise of simplifying both the role of the therapist and the therapy itself.", "contents": "The treatment of female borderlines. Failure to complete needed operations in the separation-individuation process during early childhood development is increasingly suspected of being a major source of borderline pathology. Building on Mahler's descriptions of this process as an interpersonal operation between child and mother, we have directly intervened in the patient-mother relationship in a small group of adult female borderlines. All patients displayed rapid and apparently complete clearing of borderline symptoms following limited conjoint therapy. Although neuroses remained, the criteria for a borderline diagnosis were no longer met. Treatment results with six women who had pretreatment and posttreatment psychological testing are reported. Testing confirmed clinical impressions of significant shifts in psychological defenses as well as perceptions of self and others. Fundamentals of this approach are discussed briefly, and observations regarding possible borderline pathology, mother-daughter interactions, family dynamics, and therapeutic philosophy are made. This approach appears not only to be effective but offers promise of simplifying both the role of the therapist and the therapy itself.", "PMID": 441685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5339", "title": "Therapist ratings of achievement of objectives in psychotherapy with acute schizophrenics.", "content": "Therapist ratings of patients' achievement of objectives in psychotherapy were used to examine the impact of drugs on psychotherapy, to identify attributes of patients who achieve therapy objectives, and to assess the importance of the implementation of a crisis-oriented model of therapy. Patients were part of a project investigating the long-acting phenothiazine fluphenazine enanthate and crisis-oriented family therapy in a 6-week program of aftercare treatment for briefly hospitalized first admission acute schizophrenics. The 44 patients in this study were randomly assigned to the psychotherapy condition and to either a high or low dosage of phenothiazines. Therapist ratings of the achievement of therapy objectives were significantly related to independent ratings on two outcome measures, the Global Assessment Scale and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) factor Thought Disorder, at 6-month followup. Analyses of predictors of the achievement of therapy objectives revealed significant interactions between drug level and Venables and O'Connor ratings of paranoid symptomatology among good permorbid patients and between drug level and BPRS ratings of Hostility for the entire sample.", "contents": "Therapist ratings of achievement of objectives in psychotherapy with acute schizophrenics. Therapist ratings of patients' achievement of objectives in psychotherapy were used to examine the impact of drugs on psychotherapy, to identify attributes of patients who achieve therapy objectives, and to assess the importance of the implementation of a crisis-oriented model of therapy. Patients were part of a project investigating the long-acting phenothiazine fluphenazine enanthate and crisis-oriented family therapy in a 6-week program of aftercare treatment for briefly hospitalized first admission acute schizophrenics. The 44 patients in this study were randomly assigned to the psychotherapy condition and to either a high or low dosage of phenothiazines. Therapist ratings of the achievement of therapy objectives were significantly related to independent ratings on two outcome measures, the Global Assessment Scale and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) factor Thought Disorder, at 6-month followup. Analyses of predictors of the achievement of therapy objectives revealed significant interactions between drug level and Venables and O'Connor ratings of paranoid symptomatology among good permorbid patients and between drug level and BPRS ratings of Hostility for the entire sample.", "PMID": 441686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5340", "title": "The psychotherapy of schizophrenia: Semrad's contributions to current psychoanalytic concepts.", "content": "Elvin Semrad's contributions to the understanding and psychotherapy of schizophrenia are described. The author defines the principles that guided Semrad in his theoretical understanding of schizophrenic patients, and elaborates the practical application of these principles. Semrad's contributions are related to recent work by Winnicott and Kohut on the holding environment and on the self-object and narcissistic transferences. The author's formulations about the relationship of schizophrenic regressions to borderline and narcissistic personalities, and the relevance of Semrad's work to these concepts, are reviewed.", "contents": "The psychotherapy of schizophrenia: Semrad's contributions to current psychoanalytic concepts. Elvin Semrad's contributions to the understanding and psychotherapy of schizophrenia are described. The author defines the principles that guided Semrad in his theoretical understanding of schizophrenic patients, and elaborates the practical application of these principles. Semrad's contributions are related to recent work by Winnicott and Kohut on the holding environment and on the self-object and narcissistic transferences. The author's formulations about the relationship of schizophrenic regressions to borderline and narcissistic personalities, and the relevance of Semrad's work to these concepts, are reviewed.", "PMID": 441687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5341", "title": "The relatedness of borderline and schizophrenic disorders.", "content": "This article is an editor's introduction to the theme of a special issue of the Schizophrenia Bulletin devoted to borderline conditions. The editor reviews various approaches to defining borderline patients and concludes that these descriptive efforts are now showing considerable consensus. Questions remain, however, about whether borderline patients constitute a diagnostic category that is unrelated to schizophrenia or some other established diagnostic group. The historical origins of these questions are briefly reviewed, and then the multiple interpretations given to the current research efforts to answer them are described.", "contents": "The relatedness of borderline and schizophrenic disorders. This article is an editor's introduction to the theme of a special issue of the Schizophrenia Bulletin devoted to borderline conditions. The editor reviews various approaches to defining borderline patients and concludes that these descriptive efforts are now showing considerable consensus. Questions remain, however, about whether borderline patients constitute a diagnostic category that is unrelated to schizophrenia or some other established diagnostic group. The historical origins of these questions are briefly reviewed, and then the multiple interpretations given to the current research efforts to answer them are described.", "PMID": 441689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5342", "title": "Sex differences in schizophrenia: a commentary.", "content": "A critique is offered of Samuels' article suggesting that reported sex differences in concordance rates for schizophrenia are either methodological artifacts or a function of sociological processes. Evidence of sex differences in age of onset, clinical expression, concordance rates among primary relatives, and premorbid competence is cited. Finally, it is concluded that sex differences in schizophrenia offer important clues to the development of the disorder and should be considered in future theories of schizophrenia.", "contents": "Sex differences in schizophrenia: a commentary. A critique is offered of Samuels' article suggesting that reported sex differences in concordance rates for schizophrenia are either methodological artifacts or a function of sociological processes. Evidence of sex differences in age of onset, clinical expression, concordance rates among primary relatives, and premorbid competence is cited. Finally, it is concluded that sex differences in schizophrenia offer important clues to the development of the disorder and should be considered in future theories of schizophrenia.", "PMID": 441690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5343", "title": "Diagnosis of borderlines: a discussion.", "content": "In a discussion of two reviews of the literature on borderline conditions by Liebowitz (1979) and Rieder (1979), the author briefly describes his own research on clinical aspects of the borderline syndrome. Each of the investigators involved in the study of borderline conditions seems to have his own theoretical position and diagnostic evaluation procedures. There seems to be a consensus, however, that the syndrome represents a basic developmental defect with relatively \"stable instability\" within four subcategories.", "contents": "Diagnosis of borderlines: a discussion. In a discussion of two reviews of the literature on borderline conditions by Liebowitz (1979) and Rieder (1979), the author briefly describes his own research on clinical aspects of the borderline syndrome. Each of the investigators involved in the study of borderline conditions seems to have his own theoretical position and diagnostic evaluation procedures. There seems to be a consensus, however, that the syndrome represents a basic developmental defect with relatively \"stable instability\" within four subcategories.", "PMID": 441691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5344", "title": "Two reviews of the literature on borderlines: an assessment.", "content": "The author discusses Liebowitz's (1979) and Rieder's (1979) reviews of current issues regarding the diagnosis of borderline patients. He cites the need for further research examining the basic characteristics of the borderline syndrome. He also recommends that greater attention be directed toward defining subtypes of the syndrome. The author believes that a combination of the descriptive approach of Gunderson and Kolb (1978) and his own psychostructural approach (Kernberg 1977) would prove fruitful.", "contents": "Two reviews of the literature on borderlines: an assessment. The author discusses Liebowitz's (1979) and Rieder's (1979) reviews of current issues regarding the diagnosis of borderline patients. He cites the need for further research examining the basic characteristics of the borderline syndrome. He also recommends that greater attention be directed toward defining subtypes of the syndrome. The author believes that a combination of the descriptive approach of Gunderson and Kolb (1978) and his own psychostructural approach (Kernberg 1977) would prove fruitful.", "PMID": 441692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5345", "title": "Justification for separating schizotypal and borderline personality disorders.", "content": "Siever and Gunderson (1979) have questioned the decision to separate Schizotypal Personality Disorder from Borderline Personality Disorder in DSM-III. The justification for this separation rests not on genetic evidence, but rather on the relative independence of the behavioral characteristics of two dimensions that up to now have both been referred to with the appellation \"borderline.\" We believe that this separation provides the tools with which investigators may usefully study the interaction of genetic and environmental factors as they relate to personality and the major psychiatric disorders. The benefits of this separation are already apparent in that research investigators are now using two terms to describe different phenomena, when previously they were using the single term borderline. Proposed diagnostic criteria for Schizotypal Personality Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder are appended.", "contents": "Justification for separating schizotypal and borderline personality disorders. Siever and Gunderson (1979) have questioned the decision to separate Schizotypal Personality Disorder from Borderline Personality Disorder in DSM-III. The justification for this separation rests not on genetic evidence, but rather on the relative independence of the behavioral characteristics of two dimensions that up to now have both been referred to with the appellation \"borderline.\" We believe that this separation provides the tools with which investigators may usefully study the interaction of genetic and environmental factors as they relate to personality and the major psychiatric disorders. The benefits of this separation are already apparent in that research investigators are now using two terms to describe different phenomena, when previously they were using the single term borderline. Proposed diagnostic criteria for Schizotypal Personality Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder are appended.", "PMID": 441693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5346", "title": "Relapsing spontaneous pneumopericardium and pneumothorax with proven pleuropericardial defect. A case report.", "content": "A pneumopericardium was seen in a 25-year-old man each time he developed a right-sided pneumothorax. The chest roentgenograms were suggestive of a pleuropericardial defect. This was confirmed by subsequent thoracotomy.", "contents": "Relapsing spontaneous pneumopericardium and pneumothorax with proven pleuropericardial defect. A case report. A pneumopericardium was seen in a 25-year-old man each time he developed a right-sided pneumothorax. The chest roentgenograms were suggestive of a pleuropericardial defect. This was confirmed by subsequent thoracotomy.", "PMID": 441694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5347", "title": "Treatment of severe haemoptysis by embolisation of the bronchial artery. A case report.", "content": "A case report is presented of a 50-year-old man with severe haemoptysis. The exact source of the bleeding was not known and medical treatment had no effect. Selective angiography of the bronchial arteries showed extravasation of the contrast medium into a bronchus. Embolisation of the bleeding bronchial artery caused the haemoptysis to stop immediately.", "contents": "Treatment of severe haemoptysis by embolisation of the bronchial artery. A case report. A case report is presented of a 50-year-old man with severe haemoptysis. The exact source of the bleeding was not known and medical treatment had no effect. Selective angiography of the bronchial arteries showed extravasation of the contrast medium into a bronchus. Embolisation of the bleeding bronchial artery caused the haemoptysis to stop immediately.", "PMID": 441695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5348", "title": "Sarcoidosis of the stomach. A case report.", "content": "A case of sarcoidosis of the stomach in a 76-year-old woman is described. Fiberoptic gastroscopy and roengenograms presented the appearance of an infiltrating carcinoma. It was possible to follow the spontaneous behaviour or roentgenograms during a period of 4 years. A preceding, spontaneously remitted lesion of the lungs is described, and the lack of parallelism between the two lesions is discussed. The case is seen in the light of other cases described in the literature, and the difficulties concerning the differential diagnosis are discussed.", "contents": "Sarcoidosis of the stomach. A case report. A case of sarcoidosis of the stomach in a 76-year-old woman is described. Fiberoptic gastroscopy and roengenograms presented the appearance of an infiltrating carcinoma. It was possible to follow the spontaneous behaviour or roentgenograms during a period of 4 years. A preceding, spontaneously remitted lesion of the lungs is described, and the lack of parallelism between the two lesions is discussed. The case is seen in the light of other cases described in the literature, and the difficulties concerning the differential diagnosis are discussed.", "PMID": 441696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5349", "title": "Cardiac output and blood pressure at rest and during exercise in boys with bronchial asthma.", "content": "Cardiac output, using dye-dilution technique, and intra-arterial blood pressure at rest and during exercise on a bicycle ergometer were determined in six boys with bronchial asthma, mean age 11.9 years. Intra-arterial blood pressure was also measured in another group of eight boys with bronchial asthma. Cardiac output, stroke volume, arteriovenous oxygen difference, blood pressure and total peripheral vascular resistance at rest and during exercise up to maximal level were within the normal limits of healthy boys of the same age. At maximal exercise, cardiac output averaged 12.4 l/min, stroke volume 66 ml, systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressures 128, 81 and 107 mmHg, respectively, and total peripheral vascular resistance 10.9 mmHg/l/min. The maximal arteriovenous oxygen difference amounted to 14.1 ml/100 ml blood which is similar to that in healthy adults.", "contents": "Cardiac output and blood pressure at rest and during exercise in boys with bronchial asthma. Cardiac output, using dye-dilution technique, and intra-arterial blood pressure at rest and during exercise on a bicycle ergometer were determined in six boys with bronchial asthma, mean age 11.9 years. Intra-arterial blood pressure was also measured in another group of eight boys with bronchial asthma. Cardiac output, stroke volume, arteriovenous oxygen difference, blood pressure and total peripheral vascular resistance at rest and during exercise up to maximal level were within the normal limits of healthy boys of the same age. At maximal exercise, cardiac output averaged 12.4 l/min, stroke volume 66 ml, systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressures 128, 81 and 107 mmHg, respectively, and total peripheral vascular resistance 10.9 mmHg/l/min. The maximal arteriovenous oxygen difference amounted to 14.1 ml/100 ml blood which is similar to that in healthy adults.", "PMID": 441697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5350", "title": "Blood volume and arterial blood gases in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease during and after acute respiratory failure.", "content": "The blood volume and arterial blood gases of 18 patients with chronic obstructive lung disease were studied over a period of 1/2 to 5 years, including 35 acute exacerbations of the lung disease. Treatment during exacerbation was directed at infection, bronchial obstruction and hypervolemia. Long-term diuretic therapy was instituted during the follow-up period. On admission all patients suffered from severe dyspnoea, all but two had signs of peripheral oedema and/or liver congestion and one-third had increased jugular venous pressure. Blood volume was increased in all patients and eight of them had a hematocrit above 50%. PaCO2 was severely reduced and PaCO2 increased on admission. At discharge, these symptoms and signs had all diminished or disappeared. Blood volume had fallen an average of 11 and a further reduction of 0.41 was noticed during the follow-up period. Blood gases had improved by discharge and a further improvement accompanied the reduction of blood volume during the follow-up period. It is suggested that 1) hypervolemia is common in patients with advanced chronic obstructive lung disease; 2) hypervolemia may impair arterial oxygenation; 3) long-term diuretic therapy seems to be necessary for maintaining a normal blood volume.", "contents": "Blood volume and arterial blood gases in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease during and after acute respiratory failure. The blood volume and arterial blood gases of 18 patients with chronic obstructive lung disease were studied over a period of 1/2 to 5 years, including 35 acute exacerbations of the lung disease. Treatment during exacerbation was directed at infection, bronchial obstruction and hypervolemia. Long-term diuretic therapy was instituted during the follow-up period. On admission all patients suffered from severe dyspnoea, all but two had signs of peripheral oedema and/or liver congestion and one-third had increased jugular venous pressure. Blood volume was increased in all patients and eight of them had a hematocrit above 50%. PaCO2 was severely reduced and PaCO2 increased on admission. At discharge, these symptoms and signs had all diminished or disappeared. Blood volume had fallen an average of 11 and a further reduction of 0.41 was noticed during the follow-up period. Blood gases had improved by discharge and a further improvement accompanied the reduction of blood volume during the follow-up period. It is suggested that 1) hypervolemia is common in patients with advanced chronic obstructive lung disease; 2) hypervolemia may impair arterial oxygenation; 3) long-term diuretic therapy seems to be necessary for maintaining a normal blood volume.", "PMID": 441698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5351", "title": "Elimination of test particles from the human tracheobronchial tract by voluntary coughing.", "content": "The effect of coughing on the elimination of inhaled 6 micrometer radioactively tagged teflon particles in humans was studied by external measurements of the radioactivity retained in the lungs before and after 1--2 min of voluntary coughing. In six healthy subjects coughing produced no substantial elimination of the particles. Six out of eight patients with lung disease produced expectorate and also eliminated particles from the lungs by coughing. The other two patients had no phlegm, did not produce any expectorate and did not eliminate particles by coughing. An increased amount of tracheobronchial secretion thus seems to be necessary for coughing to be effective. In the patients, the elimination of particles by coughing was fairly reproducible, suggesting that the test model may be useful for investigation of the influence of physiological and pharmacological factors on the elimination process.", "contents": "Elimination of test particles from the human tracheobronchial tract by voluntary coughing. The effect of coughing on the elimination of inhaled 6 micrometer radioactively tagged teflon particles in humans was studied by external measurements of the radioactivity retained in the lungs before and after 1--2 min of voluntary coughing. In six healthy subjects coughing produced no substantial elimination of the particles. Six out of eight patients with lung disease produced expectorate and also eliminated particles from the lungs by coughing. The other two patients had no phlegm, did not produce any expectorate and did not eliminate particles by coughing. An increased amount of tracheobronchial secretion thus seems to be necessary for coughing to be effective. In the patients, the elimination of particles by coughing was fairly reproducible, suggesting that the test model may be useful for investigation of the influence of physiological and pharmacological factors on the elimination process.", "PMID": 441699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5352", "title": "Proteins in bronchial secretion of children with chronic pulmonary diseases. I. Relation to clinical diagnosis.", "content": "Bronchial secretions from 207 children suffering from various pulmonary diseases and from 15 healthy controls were tested concentration of IgA, IgG, lactoferrin and lysozyme. The results obtained suggest that in many cases of chronic lung diseases in children the levels of lactoferrin and immunoglobulins, especially secretory IgA, are very low. In severe infections (cystic fibrosis, bronchiectases) significant increase of IgG concentration was observed.", "contents": "Proteins in bronchial secretion of children with chronic pulmonary diseases. I. Relation to clinical diagnosis. Bronchial secretions from 207 children suffering from various pulmonary diseases and from 15 healthy controls were tested concentration of IgA, IgG, lactoferrin and lysozyme. The results obtained suggest that in many cases of chronic lung diseases in children the levels of lactoferrin and immunoglobulins, especially secretory IgA, are very low. In severe infections (cystic fibrosis, bronchiectases) significant increase of IgG concentration was observed.", "PMID": 441700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5353", "title": "Proteins in bronchial secretion of children with chronic pulmonary diseases. II. Relation to bronchoscopic and bronchographic examination.", "content": "The concentration of immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and lysozyme we compared in bronchial secretions obtained from children with various chronic lung diseases. The IgG, lactoferrin and lysozyme, but not secretory IgA, concentrations were shown to be increased during chronic inflammatory response.", "contents": "Proteins in bronchial secretion of children with chronic pulmonary diseases. II. Relation to bronchoscopic and bronchographic examination. The concentration of immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and lysozyme we compared in bronchial secretions obtained from children with various chronic lung diseases. The IgG, lactoferrin and lysozyme, but not secretory IgA, concentrations were shown to be increased during chronic inflammatory response.", "PMID": 441701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5354", "title": "Occupation and bronchial carcinoma.", "content": "All patients newly diagnosed as bronchial carcinoma were studied during a 5-year period. There were 212 male and 61 female patients. A careful occupational history was taken and the occupations of the patients in 1950 were compared with the County's official occupational statistics of that year, and their chest X-rays were scrutinized for pleural plaques. A significantly higher proportion of metal workers and workers from the building industry was found among the patients, while agricultural workers were under-represented. Smoking habits did not explain the difference. The number of patients with pleural plaques was four times higher than expected. It is concluded that dust in certain occupations has an additive effect on the carcinogenic effect of smoking.", "contents": "Occupation and bronchial carcinoma. All patients newly diagnosed as bronchial carcinoma were studied during a 5-year period. There were 212 male and 61 female patients. A careful occupational history was taken and the occupations of the patients in 1950 were compared with the County's official occupational statistics of that year, and their chest X-rays were scrutinized for pleural plaques. A significantly higher proportion of metal workers and workers from the building industry was found among the patients, while agricultural workers were under-represented. Smoking habits did not explain the difference. The number of patients with pleural plaques was four times higher than expected. It is concluded that dust in certain occupations has an additive effect on the carcinogenic effect of smoking.", "PMID": 441702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5355", "title": "Lung cancer and residency--a case-referent study on the possible impact of of exposure to radon and its daughters in dwellings.", "content": "In view of the well-known urban-rural difference in lung cancer rates, remaining also after standardization for smoking, it is suggested that low levels of radon and its daughters in dwellings might be of etiologic importance to this disease. To test this hypothesis, a case-referent (case-control) study was undertaken in a rural area; it considered residency in wooden houses (assumed to be associated with low-level exposure to radon and its daughters), \"mixed type\" houses (medium exposure) and stone houses (high-level exposure) among cases of lung cancer and referents (controls). The results indicate an increased risk of lung cancer among residents in \"mixed type\" and stone houses. Additional studies are highly desirable to confirm or refute these findings, which, if valid, mean increasing lung cancer hazards caused by a decrease in ventilation in future energy saving unless special measures are undertaken to reduce radon daughters in dwellings.", "contents": "Lung cancer and residency--a case-referent study on the possible impact of of exposure to radon and its daughters in dwellings. In view of the well-known urban-rural difference in lung cancer rates, remaining also after standardization for smoking, it is suggested that low levels of radon and its daughters in dwellings might be of etiologic importance to this disease. To test this hypothesis, a case-referent (case-control) study was undertaken in a rural area; it considered residency in wooden houses (assumed to be associated with low-level exposure to radon and its daughters), \"mixed type\" houses (medium exposure) and stone houses (high-level exposure) among cases of lung cancer and referents (controls). The results indicate an increased risk of lung cancer among residents in \"mixed type\" and stone houses. Additional studies are highly desirable to confirm or refute these findings, which, if valid, mean increasing lung cancer hazards caused by a decrease in ventilation in future energy saving unless special measures are undertaken to reduce radon daughters in dwellings.", "PMID": 441704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5356", "title": "Hazards in the work environment--hydrogen sulfide. Spectrophotometric determination of hydrogen sulfide.", "content": "A convenient method for determing hydrogen sulfide in air has been developed in which the gas is first absorbed in silica gel and thereafter analyzed spectrophotometically. The limit of detection is one part per billion when measured at a wavelength of 670 nm.", "contents": "Hazards in the work environment--hydrogen sulfide. Spectrophotometric determination of hydrogen sulfide. A convenient method for determing hydrogen sulfide in air has been developed in which the gas is first absorbed in silica gel and thereafter analyzed spectrophotometically. The limit of detection is one part per billion when measured at a wavelength of 670 nm.", "PMID": 441707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5357", "title": "An exchange of membrane filter samples of airborne asbestos between one United Kingdom and three Scandinavian laboratories.", "content": "An asbestos fiber counting trial based on the postal exchange of mounted and unmounted membrane filter samples was conducted between laboratories in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The exchange was organized on the same basis as a previous international exchange involving nine countries (5); the United Kingdom laboratory had also participated in the previous exchange. Differences in counting techniques were distinguished from those due to the method used to make the filter transparent. Counting techniques gave rise to the biggest differences, giving a ratio of highest to lowest count of 2.75 for amphibole and 3.2 for chrysotile asbestos slides. A comparison was also made with the results of the previous international trial; it was made possible by the recounting of some of the slides from this exchange. Serious deterioration over two years was found in all slides except those mounted with the acetone/triacetin method.", "contents": "An exchange of membrane filter samples of airborne asbestos between one United Kingdom and three Scandinavian laboratories. An asbestos fiber counting trial based on the postal exchange of mounted and unmounted membrane filter samples was conducted between laboratories in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The exchange was organized on the same basis as a previous international exchange involving nine countries (5); the United Kingdom laboratory had also participated in the previous exchange. Differences in counting techniques were distinguished from those due to the method used to make the filter transparent. Counting techniques gave rise to the biggest differences, giving a ratio of highest to lowest count of 2.75 for amphibole and 3.2 for chrysotile asbestos slides. A comparison was also made with the results of the previous international trial; it was made possible by the recounting of some of the slides from this exchange. Serious deterioration over two years was found in all slides except those mounted with the acetone/triacetin method.", "PMID": 441708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5358", "title": "Effects of vanadium on the upper respiratory tract of workers in a vanadium factory. A macroscopic and microscopic study.", "content": "An epidemiologic cross-sectional case-history study on the injurious effects of vanadium was carried out among the workers of a vanadium factory. The upper respiratory tract of 63 male workers exposed to vanadium dust was examined macroscopically and microscopically, and the findings were compared with those of a reference group of workers who were exposed to inert dust only. The groups compared were of similar ages and had similar smoking habits. Nasal smears and sputum cells were studied microscopically, and biopsies for histological study were taken from the nasal mucosa. The biopsies from the vanadium workers showed a significant increase in the number of plasma and round cells, and the histological picture was almost characteristic. There were no increased numbers of secretion eosinophils or other signs indicative of allergic inflammation.", "contents": "Effects of vanadium on the upper respiratory tract of workers in a vanadium factory. A macroscopic and microscopic study. An epidemiologic cross-sectional case-history study on the injurious effects of vanadium was carried out among the workers of a vanadium factory. The upper respiratory tract of 63 male workers exposed to vanadium dust was examined macroscopically and microscopically, and the findings were compared with those of a reference group of workers who were exposed to inert dust only. The groups compared were of similar ages and had similar smoking habits. Nasal smears and sputum cells were studied microscopically, and biopsies for histological study were taken from the nasal mucosa. The biopsies from the vanadium workers showed a significant increase in the number of plasma and round cells, and the histological picture was almost characteristic. There were no increased numbers of secretion eosinophils or other signs indicative of allergic inflammation.", "PMID": 441709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5359", "title": "Individual mercury exposure of chloralkali workers and its relation to blood and urinary mercury levels.", "content": "On two occasions, chloralkali workers were investigated with regard to personal air mercury exposure, blood mercury and urinary mercury. The first investigation (13 workers, 2 weeks) was made at an exposure above the threshold limit value (64 microgram/m3, range 36--112), the second (16 workers, 8 weeks) at a lower exposure (23 microgram/m3, range 15--43). At the higher level of exposure, good correlations were found between air exposure and blood or urinary mercury for the group, but not for individuals. At the lower level, the correlations were less pronounced for the group. For individuals, the best correlation was found between mean air exposure during one week and blood mercury about half a week later. Other individuals, mainly the least exposed, showed no such correlation. Corresponding correlations were not found for urinary mercury. The urinary excretion rate was determined only for the last few hours of the workday, but the results agree with earlier investigations of 24-h excretion on a group basis. The threshold limit value for mercury in air (50 microgram/m3) corresponds to 150--175 nmol Hg/1 blood (= 30--35 microgram/1) for the group, with large individual variation.", "contents": "Individual mercury exposure of chloralkali workers and its relation to blood and urinary mercury levels. On two occasions, chloralkali workers were investigated with regard to personal air mercury exposure, blood mercury and urinary mercury. The first investigation (13 workers, 2 weeks) was made at an exposure above the threshold limit value (64 microgram/m3, range 36--112), the second (16 workers, 8 weeks) at a lower exposure (23 microgram/m3, range 15--43). At the higher level of exposure, good correlations were found between air exposure and blood or urinary mercury for the group, but not for individuals. At the lower level, the correlations were less pronounced for the group. For individuals, the best correlation was found between mean air exposure during one week and blood mercury about half a week later. Other individuals, mainly the least exposed, showed no such correlation. Corresponding correlations were not found for urinary mercury. The urinary excretion rate was determined only for the last few hours of the workday, but the results agree with earlier investigations of 24-h excretion on a group basis. The threshold limit value for mercury in air (50 microgram/m3) corresponds to 150--175 nmol Hg/1 blood (= 30--35 microgram/1) for the group, with large individual variation.", "PMID": 441710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5360", "title": "[Overview of the epidemiology of stonefish poisonings, their treatment and preventive measures].", "content": "A review is presented of work on envenomation by stonefish (Synanceja spp.), which represent not only a danger for the inhabitants of tropical coasts but also for tourists. Stonefish are common in shallow water of reef areas by the shores of the Indian and Indopacific Ocean. The bizarrely shaped fish is often taken for a weed-covered stone and accidents occur when swimmers, divers or fishermen step on the stings of the dorsal fin. These stings are provided with poison glands. The venom has neurotoxic, myotoxic and hemorrhagic effects. The case of a 39-year-old diver is cited who suffered a stonefish stab which lasted for several weeks. Generally envenomations by Synanceja cause severe local pain and enormous swelling of the limb; systemic symptoms as usually found with neurotoxins are common; death may occur by shock, by paralysis of the diaphragm or cardiac arrest. For first aid bathing of the limb in hot water is recommended. Clinical measures are local analgesia, local neutralization of the venom, if possible antiserum therapy and intensive care with symptomatic treatment of systemic complications. The most effective prevention is adequate foot protection when wading in the sea.", "contents": "[Overview of the epidemiology of stonefish poisonings, their treatment and preventive measures]. A review is presented of work on envenomation by stonefish (Synanceja spp.), which represent not only a danger for the inhabitants of tropical coasts but also for tourists. Stonefish are common in shallow water of reef areas by the shores of the Indian and Indopacific Ocean. The bizarrely shaped fish is often taken for a weed-covered stone and accidents occur when swimmers, divers or fishermen step on the stings of the dorsal fin. These stings are provided with poison glands. The venom has neurotoxic, myotoxic and hemorrhagic effects. The case of a 39-year-old diver is cited who suffered a stonefish stab which lasted for several weeks. Generally envenomations by Synanceja cause severe local pain and enormous swelling of the limb; systemic symptoms as usually found with neurotoxins are common; death may occur by shock, by paralysis of the diaphragm or cardiac arrest. For first aid bathing of the limb in hot water is recommended. Clinical measures are local analgesia, local neutralization of the venom, if possible antiserum therapy and intensive care with symptomatic treatment of systemic complications. The most effective prevention is adequate foot protection when wading in the sea.", "PMID": 441711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5361", "title": "[Exhaled hydrogen test in the detection of lactase deficiency].", "content": "To determine the validity of breath H2 measurements in detecting lactase deficiency, capillary blood glucose and breath H2 were measured after ingestion of 50 g lactose in 34 patients with abdominal symptoms or diarrhea. 18 patients had biopsy-proven lactase deficiency and 16 normal lactase activity. Blood glucose determination produced 2 false-positive results while breath H2 measurements provided 2 false-negative and 4 false-positive results.", "contents": "[Exhaled hydrogen test in the detection of lactase deficiency]. To determine the validity of breath H2 measurements in detecting lactase deficiency, capillary blood glucose and breath H2 were measured after ingestion of 50 g lactose in 34 patients with abdominal symptoms or diarrhea. 18 patients had biopsy-proven lactase deficiency and 16 normal lactase activity. Blood glucose determination produced 2 false-positive results while breath H2 measurements provided 2 false-negative and 4 false-positive results.", "PMID": 441712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5362", "title": "[Hemolytic crisis and acute kidney failure from rifampicin].", "content": "Two cases are reported of hemolytic crisis and acute anuria after intermittent rifampicin medication. Immunologic tests demonstrate that the hemolysis was of the drug-induced heteroimmune type whereas the pathogenesis of the anuria was uncertain. For both complications the prognosis is good.", "contents": "[Hemolytic crisis and acute kidney failure from rifampicin]. Two cases are reported of hemolytic crisis and acute anuria after intermittent rifampicin medication. Immunologic tests demonstrate that the hemolysis was of the drug-induced heteroimmune type whereas the pathogenesis of the anuria was uncertain. For both complications the prognosis is good.", "PMID": 441713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5363", "title": "[Isolated hepatosplenic tuberculosis: 1 case].", "content": "A 27-year-old woman presented with high spiking fevers, progressive malaise, weight loss, and marked hepatosplenomegaly. The clinical picture and laboratory findings (including hepatic scintiscan, coeliac arteriography and abdominal lymphangiography) prompted surgical exploration of hypochondriac organs. On laparotomy, both liver and spleen surface exhibited extensive inflammatory lesions. Histopathologic investigations on hepatic tissue showed microscopic caseating granulomata. Specific stains and cultures for mycobacterium, fungi etc. were negative in tissue preparations. Antituberculous and steroid therapy elicited a rapid response. Follow-up observations indicated the resolution of specific hepatic lesions.", "contents": "[Isolated hepatosplenic tuberculosis: 1 case]. A 27-year-old woman presented with high spiking fevers, progressive malaise, weight loss, and marked hepatosplenomegaly. The clinical picture and laboratory findings (including hepatic scintiscan, coeliac arteriography and abdominal lymphangiography) prompted surgical exploration of hypochondriac organs. On laparotomy, both liver and spleen surface exhibited extensive inflammatory lesions. Histopathologic investigations on hepatic tissue showed microscopic caseating granulomata. Specific stains and cultures for mycobacterium, fungi etc. were negative in tissue preparations. Antituberculous and steroid therapy elicited a rapid response. Follow-up observations indicated the resolution of specific hepatic lesions.", "PMID": 441714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5364", "title": "[Idiopathic hemochromatosis: current problems in diagnosis and therapy].", "content": "The main interest in idiopathic hemochromatosis (IH) currently centers more and more on early detection of the basic pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease, and on the prevention of organ lesions rather than therapy of the late syndrome. An understanding of the pathophysiology of this inborn error of iron metabolism, which is briefly outlined, enables the physician to motivate a still healthy potential IH patient for the simple but life-long therapeutic regimen (phlebotomy). The possible organ lesions of IH are briefly mentioned, and early recognition of arthropathy as a far from exceptional first symptom of the disease is emphasized. With regard to the detection of the latent disease, the practical value of liver biopsy, serum iron, the still debated serum ferritin, and the desferrioxamine test are discussed. Personal experience with a new and sensitive test for the screening of relatives, the cobalt absorption/excretion test, is also presented. After the recent clarification of the mode of inheritance of IH (autosomal recessive), the question arises whether heterozygote individuals, who obviously exhibit increased iron absorption, augmented transferrin saturation and an increased hepatic iron content, should also be treated prophylactically.", "contents": "[Idiopathic hemochromatosis: current problems in diagnosis and therapy]. The main interest in idiopathic hemochromatosis (IH) currently centers more and more on early detection of the basic pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease, and on the prevention of organ lesions rather than therapy of the late syndrome. An understanding of the pathophysiology of this inborn error of iron metabolism, which is briefly outlined, enables the physician to motivate a still healthy potential IH patient for the simple but life-long therapeutic regimen (phlebotomy). The possible organ lesions of IH are briefly mentioned, and early recognition of arthropathy as a far from exceptional first symptom of the disease is emphasized. With regard to the detection of the latent disease, the practical value of liver biopsy, serum iron, the still debated serum ferritin, and the desferrioxamine test are discussed. Personal experience with a new and sensitive test for the screening of relatives, the cobalt absorption/excretion test, is also presented. After the recent clarification of the mode of inheritance of IH (autosomal recessive), the question arises whether heterozygote individuals, who obviously exhibit increased iron absorption, augmented transferrin saturation and an increased hepatic iron content, should also be treated prophylactically.", "PMID": 441715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5365", "title": "[Fenestration of the peritoneal cavity with a mersilen net. A contribution to the treatment of peritonitis].", "content": "A new method for the treatment of peritonitis, fenestration of the peritoneal cavity with a mersilen net, has been used in two patients. Drainage by mersilen net window proved adequate for weeks. No complications occurred and the disadvantages of the conventional method were not encountered.", "contents": "[Fenestration of the peritoneal cavity with a mersilen net. A contribution to the treatment of peritonitis]. A new method for the treatment of peritonitis, fenestration of the peritoneal cavity with a mersilen net, has been used in two patients. Drainage by mersilen net window proved adequate for weeks. No complications occurred and the disadvantages of the conventional method were not encountered.", "PMID": 441716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5366", "title": "[Carcinoma of the anal canal. Anatomical study of 21 cases].", "content": "21 cases of carcinoma of the anal canal in 20 patients are reported. There is a marked predominance in females (17 cases). The preferential location is the posterior wall of the anal canal. Basaloid type carcinoma is most frequent. At the time of diagnosis most patients exhibited marked extension of the tumour, either in the form of infiltration of adjacent organs (10/18 cases), especially to the rectovaginal space, or of metastases to regional lymph nodes or elswhere. The prognosis is as a rule poor. Apart from 3 patients still living, there were no survivors at 3 years.", "contents": "[Carcinoma of the anal canal. Anatomical study of 21 cases]. 21 cases of carcinoma of the anal canal in 20 patients are reported. There is a marked predominance in females (17 cases). The preferential location is the posterior wall of the anal canal. Basaloid type carcinoma is most frequent. At the time of diagnosis most patients exhibited marked extension of the tumour, either in the form of infiltration of adjacent organs (10/18 cases), especially to the rectovaginal space, or of metastases to regional lymph nodes or elswhere. The prognosis is as a rule poor. Apart from 3 patients still living, there were no survivors at 3 years.", "PMID": 441717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5367", "title": "[Normogram study of the health of male industrial workers in northern Switzerland. Part 3: present medical care - frequency].", "content": "A study has been conducted to obtain representative data on the health of industrial workers in northern Switzerland. 1260 men from 44 plants were covered. At the time of the study 21.3% were under treatment by a doctor. From all these patients 14.4% were suffering from heart diseases, 12.6% from articular rheumatism and muscle diseases, 10.3% from neurological and 9% from dermatological diseases. Of subjects aged 43--65, 1.7 times more were under treatment by a doctor than subjects aged 20--42.", "contents": "[Normogram study of the health of male industrial workers in northern Switzerland. Part 3: present medical care - frequency]. A study has been conducted to obtain representative data on the health of industrial workers in northern Switzerland. 1260 men from 44 plants were covered. At the time of the study 21.3% were under treatment by a doctor. From all these patients 14.4% were suffering from heart diseases, 12.6% from articular rheumatism and muscle diseases, 10.3% from neurological and 9% from dermatological diseases. Of subjects aged 43--65, 1.7 times more were under treatment by a doctor than subjects aged 20--42.", "PMID": 441718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5368", "title": "[Spontaneous pneumathorax and pregnancy].", "content": "A case is reported of rare spontaneous pneumothorax during a first pregnancy and recurring during a second pregnancy. No explanation or pathological reasons have been found which could cause this condition. The literature confirms the rarity of this pathology in connection with pregnancy. The pregnancy hormonal levels do not seem to play a role in the pathogenesis. No alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency was observed.", "contents": "[Spontaneous pneumathorax and pregnancy]. A case is reported of rare spontaneous pneumothorax during a first pregnancy and recurring during a second pregnancy. No explanation or pathological reasons have been found which could cause this condition. The literature confirms the rarity of this pathology in connection with pregnancy. The pregnancy hormonal levels do not seem to play a role in the pathogenesis. No alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency was observed.", "PMID": 441719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5369", "title": "[Bartter's syndrome: Recurrence in the course of a treatment inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis].", "content": "Two adults with Bartter's syndrome were treated first with propranolol and a potassium-sparing diuretic and then with indomethacin for 22 months. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin, confirmed by a fall in urinary excretion rate of prostaglandins E2 and F2 alpha, induced a marked decrease in plasma renin activity and aldosterone excretion rate and an increase in plasma potassium. While the first patient was well controlled by this therapy, the second had elevation of prostaglandin excretion after 8 months associated with a relapse of symptomatic hypokalemia. Reintroduction of propranolol in addition to indomethacin led to renormalization of plasma potassium. A therapeutic trial with another prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, meclofenamate, also produced partial correction of hyperreninemia and hypokalemia but only for a short time. From these observations it is concluded that (1) inhibition of renal prostaglandins by indomethacin or meclofenamate represents an effective but transient therapy for Bartter's syndrome, and (2) while prostaglandin secretion may elude pharmacological inhibition, the addition of propranolol restores complete inhibition and the therapeutic benefits of the previous treatment.", "contents": "[Bartter's syndrome: Recurrence in the course of a treatment inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis]. Two adults with Bartter's syndrome were treated first with propranolol and a potassium-sparing diuretic and then with indomethacin for 22 months. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin, confirmed by a fall in urinary excretion rate of prostaglandins E2 and F2 alpha, induced a marked decrease in plasma renin activity and aldosterone excretion rate and an increase in plasma potassium. While the first patient was well controlled by this therapy, the second had elevation of prostaglandin excretion after 8 months associated with a relapse of symptomatic hypokalemia. Reintroduction of propranolol in addition to indomethacin led to renormalization of plasma potassium. A therapeutic trial with another prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, meclofenamate, also produced partial correction of hyperreninemia and hypokalemia but only for a short time. From these observations it is concluded that (1) inhibition of renal prostaglandins by indomethacin or meclofenamate represents an effective but transient therapy for Bartter's syndrome, and (2) while prostaglandin secretion may elude pharmacological inhibition, the addition of propranolol restores complete inhibition and the therapeutic benefits of the previous treatment.", "PMID": 441720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5370", "title": "[Chemotherapy of human echinococcosis with mebendazole (Vermox): preliminary clinical results].", "content": "Two patients with inoperable multiple Echinococcus granulosus infections involving the lungs and the liver (one patient) were treated with the following daily doses of mebendazole (Vermox): 3 days 1000 mg, 3 days 1500 mg, the following 3 months 30-40 mg/kg body weight. One of the patients had been treated before with mebendazole in similar doses for 3 periods of 5-6 weeks each. The patients received the drug as 500 mg tablets divided into 3 daily doses after meals. After termination of treatment a distinct regression of lung cysts was demonstrable in both patients, with the exception of one cyst. The liver cyst in one of the patients had also decreased in size. About 8 months after therapy signs of reactivation of lung cysts were observed in one patient, and a new course of mebendazole treatment was therefore started.", "contents": "[Chemotherapy of human echinococcosis with mebendazole (Vermox): preliminary clinical results]. Two patients with inoperable multiple Echinococcus granulosus infections involving the lungs and the liver (one patient) were treated with the following daily doses of mebendazole (Vermox): 3 days 1000 mg, 3 days 1500 mg, the following 3 months 30-40 mg/kg body weight. One of the patients had been treated before with mebendazole in similar doses for 3 periods of 5-6 weeks each. The patients received the drug as 500 mg tablets divided into 3 daily doses after meals. After termination of treatment a distinct regression of lung cysts was demonstrable in both patients, with the exception of one cyst. The liver cyst in one of the patients had also decreased in size. About 8 months after therapy signs of reactivation of lung cysts were observed in one patient, and a new course of mebendazole treatment was therefore started.", "PMID": 441721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5371", "title": "[Histopathologic classification of malignant melanoma of the skin. Retrospective study of 149 cases].", "content": "In a retrospective study, the histological slides of 149 cutaneous melanomas are classified according to CLARK et al. (1969) into four levels of dermal invasion and three types of melanoma. Simultaneously, the depth measured in millimeters is added in a slightly modified version of BESLOW's method. This demonstrates the practicability of CLARK'S classification with only a few routine sections. The presumptions are (1) The tumor must be cut through its largest extension. (2) The bordering parts of the lesion in the epidermis must be examinable. (3) The specimen must be excised down to the subcutaneous fat. (4) Beside the H\u00e4malaun-Eosin stains, a Van Gieson Elastica stain should be available to determine the level of invasion. Although it is easy to recognize level V, it is difficult to distinguish level II from III or III from IV in some cases. Our material, as compared to the literature, contained more nodular melanomas and lesions of levels IV and V. The reasons for this are discussed. The prognosis of nodular melanomas is worse than that of superficial spreading melanomas even when they are classified into the same level of invasion. A good correlation between the survival rate and the level of invasion is shown. In addition, the prognostic value of the histological staging can probably be optimized by measuring the vertical extent of the lesions in millimeters.", "contents": "[Histopathologic classification of malignant melanoma of the skin. Retrospective study of 149 cases]. In a retrospective study, the histological slides of 149 cutaneous melanomas are classified according to CLARK et al. (1969) into four levels of dermal invasion and three types of melanoma. Simultaneously, the depth measured in millimeters is added in a slightly modified version of BESLOW's method. This demonstrates the practicability of CLARK'S classification with only a few routine sections. The presumptions are (1) The tumor must be cut through its largest extension. (2) The bordering parts of the lesion in the epidermis must be examinable. (3) The specimen must be excised down to the subcutaneous fat. (4) Beside the H\u00e4malaun-Eosin stains, a Van Gieson Elastica stain should be available to determine the level of invasion. Although it is easy to recognize level V, it is difficult to distinguish level II from III or III from IV in some cases. Our material, as compared to the literature, contained more nodular melanomas and lesions of levels IV and V. The reasons for this are discussed. The prognosis of nodular melanomas is worse than that of superficial spreading melanomas even when they are classified into the same level of invasion. A good correlation between the survival rate and the level of invasion is shown. In addition, the prognostic value of the histological staging can probably be optimized by measuring the vertical extent of the lesions in millimeters.", "PMID": 441722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5372", "title": "[Pathogenesis of bone marrow necrosis in a patient with cancer].", "content": "Bone marrow necrosis was observed in a 23-year-old pregnant woman with severe anemia and thrombocytopenia due to bilateral ovarian carcinoma. After removal of the primary tumors, the hematological findings returned to normal, but the progression of the metastasis lead to respiratory insufficiency and death. The possible mechanisms leading to bone marrow necrosis are discussed. In our case, it could be shown that emboli of tumor cells into the vessels of the bone marrow lead to the necrosis of the marrow. The embolization was temporarily stopped after removal of the ovaries.", "contents": "[Pathogenesis of bone marrow necrosis in a patient with cancer]. Bone marrow necrosis was observed in a 23-year-old pregnant woman with severe anemia and thrombocytopenia due to bilateral ovarian carcinoma. After removal of the primary tumors, the hematological findings returned to normal, but the progression of the metastasis lead to respiratory insufficiency and death. The possible mechanisms leading to bone marrow necrosis are discussed. In our case, it could be shown that emboli of tumor cells into the vessels of the bone marrow lead to the necrosis of the marrow. The embolization was temporarily stopped after removal of the ovaries.", "PMID": 441723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5373", "title": "The theoretical basis of column chromatography in multicomponent separation.", "content": "Microparticulate packings (silica and chemically bonded silica) developed in our institute and produced in China have been evaluated by the method published previously with a column efficiency of 1,400 to 10,000 theoretical plates per 10 cm length for HPLC and 1,700 to 4,400 plates per 10 cm length for GC. By varying the surface area of silica and composition of the eluent, the linear relationship of capacity factor of various compounds and the high speed chromatograms of HPLC and HPGC have been given.", "contents": "The theoretical basis of column chromatography in multicomponent separation. Microparticulate packings (silica and chemically bonded silica) developed in our institute and produced in China have been evaluated by the method published previously with a column efficiency of 1,400 to 10,000 theoretical plates per 10 cm length for HPLC and 1,700 to 4,400 plates per 10 cm length for GC. By varying the surface area of silica and composition of the eluent, the linear relationship of capacity factor of various compounds and the high speed chromatograms of HPLC and HPGC have been given.", "PMID": 441724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5374", "title": "Role of sustained neurones of cat lateral geniculate nucleus in processing luminance information.", "content": "The properties of the sustained cells in the lateral geniculate nucleus of cat have been studied quantitatively. These cells may be subdivided into two groups, the brightness and the darkness detectors. The former is photoexcitatory neurone and the latter, photoinhibitory. In both types, the rates of sustained discharges are closely related to the levels of retinal illumination over a range about 4 log units. The receptive fields of sustained cells again can be roughly divided into two subtypes according to their size. The large receptive field cells all belong to darkness detectors and are distributed mostly at retinal periphery, which may play some role in signalling the background luminance. The small receptive field cells comprise all brightness detectors and a part of darkness detectors, which are located predominantly around area centralis and may transmit the message of brightness or darkness about picture details and enhance the boundaries of a two-dimensional figure.", "contents": "Role of sustained neurones of cat lateral geniculate nucleus in processing luminance information. The properties of the sustained cells in the lateral geniculate nucleus of cat have been studied quantitatively. These cells may be subdivided into two groups, the brightness and the darkness detectors. The former is photoexcitatory neurone and the latter, photoinhibitory. In both types, the rates of sustained discharges are closely related to the levels of retinal illumination over a range about 4 log units. The receptive fields of sustained cells again can be roughly divided into two subtypes according to their size. The large receptive field cells all belong to darkness detectors and are distributed mostly at retinal periphery, which may play some role in signalling the background luminance. The small receptive field cells comprise all brightness detectors and a part of darkness detectors, which are located predominantly around area centralis and may transmit the message of brightness or darkness about picture details and enhance the boundaries of a two-dimensional figure.", "PMID": 441725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5375", "title": "Mercury vapor as a contaminant of hospital environment.", "content": "Surveys for airborne mercury in two Ottawa hospitals have been conducted. Two different analytical methods were used. Although the concentrations of mercury vapor were below the TLV, all samples analyzed showed measureable amounts of mercury to be present. Predominant sources of mercury contamination are broken thermometers and sphygmomanometers.", "contents": "Mercury vapor as a contaminant of hospital environment. Surveys for airborne mercury in two Ottawa hospitals have been conducted. Two different analytical methods were used. Although the concentrations of mercury vapor were below the TLV, all samples analyzed showed measureable amounts of mercury to be present. Predominant sources of mercury contamination are broken thermometers and sphygmomanometers.", "PMID": 441726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5376", "title": "Flow cytometry: a high-resolution instrument for everyone.", "content": "A new flow configuration for flow cytometry has been devised in which a flat, laminar stream of water, containing the stained cells in a narrow sector, is formed on a microscope cover slip by a pressurized jet of water directed onto the glass at low angle. The stream of cells is viewed by means of a fluorescence microscope with incident illumination and a pulse photometer. Coupled to a multichannel pulse height analyzer, the instrument constitutes a stable and easy-to-operate flow cytometer with a resolution equal to or better than a coefficient of variance of 1.4 percent in measurements of cellular DNA.", "contents": "Flow cytometry: a high-resolution instrument for everyone. A new flow configuration for flow cytometry has been devised in which a flat, laminar stream of water, containing the stained cells in a narrow sector, is formed on a microscope cover slip by a pressurized jet of water directed onto the glass at low angle. The stream of cells is viewed by means of a fluorescence microscope with incident illumination and a pulse photometer. Coupled to a multichannel pulse height analyzer, the instrument constitutes a stable and easy-to-operate flow cytometer with a resolution equal to or better than a coefficient of variance of 1.4 percent in measurements of cellular DNA.", "PMID": 441727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5377", "title": "Distribution of nitrogen-13 from labeled nitrate (13No3-) in humans and rats.", "content": "The body distribution of gavaged or intravenously administered nitrate labeled with nitrogen-13 was studied in humans and rats with the following results: (i) the labeled compound is not quickly absorbed from the stomach; (ii) the concentration of the label increases inside the lower intestinal tract (cercum and large intestine) when ingested or intravenously injected; and (iii) humans and rats have the capacity to store a portion of the label in their bodies. These observation indicate that depletion of body stores, the passage of nitrate down the gut, or the secretion of nitrate into the intestinal lumen may be a better explanation of the urinary, ileal, and fecal concentrations of nitrate and nitrite recently measured in humans that a bacterial nitrification reaction in the intestines, as suggested by Tannenbbaum et al.", "contents": "Distribution of nitrogen-13 from labeled nitrate (13No3-) in humans and rats. The body distribution of gavaged or intravenously administered nitrate labeled with nitrogen-13 was studied in humans and rats with the following results: (i) the labeled compound is not quickly absorbed from the stomach; (ii) the concentration of the label increases inside the lower intestinal tract (cercum and large intestine) when ingested or intravenously injected; and (iii) humans and rats have the capacity to store a portion of the label in their bodies. These observation indicate that depletion of body stores, the passage of nitrate down the gut, or the secretion of nitrate into the intestinal lumen may be a better explanation of the urinary, ileal, and fecal concentrations of nitrate and nitrite recently measured in humans that a bacterial nitrification reaction in the intestines, as suggested by Tannenbbaum et al.", "PMID": 441728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5378", "title": "Influence of cartilage geometry on the pressure distribution in the human hip joint.", "content": "To elucidate the role of mechanical factors in the etiology of osteoarthritis, the detailed geometry of the weight-bearing cartilage layer over the human hip socket is compared with the corresponding pressure distribution. The shape of the pressure distribution is strongly correlated with the shape of the cartilage compression distribution.", "contents": "Influence of cartilage geometry on the pressure distribution in the human hip joint. To elucidate the role of mechanical factors in the etiology of osteoarthritis, the detailed geometry of the weight-bearing cartilage layer over the human hip socket is compared with the corresponding pressure distribution. The shape of the pressure distribution is strongly correlated with the shape of the cartilage compression distribution.", "PMID": 441729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5379", "title": "Immunocompetence in the lowest metazoan phylum: transplantation immunity in sponges.", "content": "Isografts of Callyspongia diffusa fuse compatibly, but allografts are invariably incompatible. Extensive polymorphism of cell-surface histocompatibility markers is evident. The histocompatibility barriers range from strong to weak depending on the interclonal combination, but early rejection with conspicous cytotoxic sequelae is typical. Reaction times of first-set, second-set, and third-party grafts indicate highly discriminating transplantation immunity with a specific memory component.", "contents": "Immunocompetence in the lowest metazoan phylum: transplantation immunity in sponges. Isografts of Callyspongia diffusa fuse compatibly, but allografts are invariably incompatible. Extensive polymorphism of cell-surface histocompatibility markers is evident. The histocompatibility barriers range from strong to weak depending on the interclonal combination, but early rejection with conspicous cytotoxic sequelae is typical. Reaction times of first-set, second-set, and third-party grafts indicate highly discriminating transplantation immunity with a specific memory component.", "PMID": 441730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5380", "title": "The oilbird: hearing and echolocation.", "content": "Oilbirds can navigate in total darkness by echolocation. The sound energy in their sonar cries is unevenly distributed over the range from about 1 to 15 kilohertz, with a dominant frequency range of 1.5 to 2.5 kilohertz. This corresponds to the most sensitive range of their hearing as determined by neurophysiological methods. Behavioral tests in their home cave indicate that the smallest object avoided by this is a disk 20 centimeters in diameter.", "contents": "The oilbird: hearing and echolocation. Oilbirds can navigate in total darkness by echolocation. The sound energy in their sonar cries is unevenly distributed over the range from about 1 to 15 kilohertz, with a dominant frequency range of 1.5 to 2.5 kilohertz. This corresponds to the most sensitive range of their hearing as determined by neurophysiological methods. Behavioral tests in their home cave indicate that the smallest object avoided by this is a disk 20 centimeters in diameter.", "PMID": 441731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5381", "title": "Thyroxine increases nerve growth factor concentration in adult mouse brain.", "content": "The effects of thyroxine and propylthiouracil on nerve growth factor concentrations in cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem of adult male mice were assessed by using a sensitive radioimmunoassay for the beta-subunit of mouse nerve growth factor. Thyroxine administration significantly increased the concentration of nerve growth factor in all three brain areas compared to control values, whereas propylthiouracil was without effect. These results suggest that thyroid hormones stimulate nerve growth factor synthesis in the mature central nervous system, and raise the possibility that the influence of thyroid hormones on central nervous system development might be mediated or influenced by nerve growth factor.", "contents": "Thyroxine increases nerve growth factor concentration in adult mouse brain. The effects of thyroxine and propylthiouracil on nerve growth factor concentrations in cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem of adult male mice were assessed by using a sensitive radioimmunoassay for the beta-subunit of mouse nerve growth factor. Thyroxine administration significantly increased the concentration of nerve growth factor in all three brain areas compared to control values, whereas propylthiouracil was without effect. These results suggest that thyroid hormones stimulate nerve growth factor synthesis in the mature central nervous system, and raise the possibility that the influence of thyroid hormones on central nervous system development might be mediated or influenced by nerve growth factor.", "PMID": 441732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5382", "title": "Periodicity of deoxyribonuclease I digestion of chromatin.", "content": "Two methods have been used to measure the single-strand lengths of the DNA fragments produced by deoxyribonuclease I digestion of chromatin. The average lengths obtained are muliples of about 10.4 bases, significantly different from the value of 10 previously reported. This periodicity in fragment lengths is closely related to the periodicity of the DNA double helix in chromatin, but the two values need not be exactly the same.", "contents": "Periodicity of deoxyribonuclease I digestion of chromatin. Two methods have been used to measure the single-strand lengths of the DNA fragments produced by deoxyribonuclease I digestion of chromatin. The average lengths obtained are muliples of about 10.4 bases, significantly different from the value of 10 previously reported. This periodicity in fragment lengths is closely related to the periodicity of the DNA double helix in chromatin, but the two values need not be exactly the same.", "PMID": 441739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5383", "title": "Normal anterior endoderm corrects the heart defect in cardiac mutant salamanders (Ambystoma mexicanum).", "content": "Recessive mutant gene c in axolotl embryos results in an absence of heart function. Normal (+/+) anterior endoderm cultured with mutant (c/c) hearts totally corrects the defect.", "contents": "Normal anterior endoderm corrects the heart defect in cardiac mutant salamanders (Ambystoma mexicanum). Recessive mutant gene c in axolotl embryos results in an absence of heart function. Normal (+/+) anterior endoderm cultured with mutant (c/c) hearts totally corrects the defect.", "PMID": 441740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5384", "title": "Immunoassay by differential pulse polarography.", "content": "An immunological method based on labeling an antigen with an electroactive group detectable by differential pulse polarography has been demonstrated. Estriol labeled with mercuric acetate is electroactive, giving a reduction wave at -300 millivolts versus a standard calomel electrode. Addition of estriol antibody to 4-mercuric acetate estriol diminishes the peak current as a result of the antigen-antibody binding reaction. Separation of free-labeled estriol from antibody-bound-labeled antigen is unnecessary. The method is potentially useful as an analytical immunological technique.", "contents": "Immunoassay by differential pulse polarography. An immunological method based on labeling an antigen with an electroactive group detectable by differential pulse polarography has been demonstrated. Estriol labeled with mercuric acetate is electroactive, giving a reduction wave at -300 millivolts versus a standard calomel electrode. Addition of estriol antibody to 4-mercuric acetate estriol diminishes the peak current as a result of the antigen-antibody binding reaction. Separation of free-labeled estriol from antibody-bound-labeled antigen is unnecessary. The method is potentially useful as an analytical immunological technique.", "PMID": 441741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5385", "title": "Fluorescent retrograde double labeling: axonal branching in the ascending raphe and nigral projections.", "content": "Red fluorescent Evans blue and blue fluorescent DAPI-primuline were injected into the anterior-medial and lateral-caudal forebrains, respectively, of the same rats. Separate clusters of cells labeled by retrograde transport were observed in the substantia nigra, while in the dorsal raphe many cells were double-labeled. Thus, single raphe cells send divergent axon collaterals to widespread forebrain areas.", "contents": "Fluorescent retrograde double labeling: axonal branching in the ascending raphe and nigral projections. Red fluorescent Evans blue and blue fluorescent DAPI-primuline were injected into the anterior-medial and lateral-caudal forebrains, respectively, of the same rats. Separate clusters of cells labeled by retrograde transport were observed in the substantia nigra, while in the dorsal raphe many cells were double-labeled. Thus, single raphe cells send divergent axon collaterals to widespread forebrain areas.", "PMID": 441742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5386", "title": "Binocularity in kittens reared with optically induced squint.", "content": "The effects of conflicting visual images were studied without the confounding influences of oculomotor abnormalities: strabismus was simulated by rearing kittens with ophthalmic prisms before the eyes. After the animals had matured, the response properties of neurons in the visual cortex were studied. The proportion of binocularly excited neurons decreased; however, the extent of the ocular dominance alterations was related to the amount and direction of the prism-induced deviation.", "contents": "Binocularity in kittens reared with optically induced squint. The effects of conflicting visual images were studied without the confounding influences of oculomotor abnormalities: strabismus was simulated by rearing kittens with ophthalmic prisms before the eyes. After the animals had matured, the response properties of neurons in the visual cortex were studied. The proportion of binocularly excited neurons decreased; however, the extent of the ocular dominance alterations was related to the amount and direction of the prism-induced deviation.", "PMID": 441743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5387", "title": "[Decrease in the alcohol level in blood and urine stains].", "content": "Changes in the known alcohol levels in blood and urine stains on different underlays were studied. Alcohol levels were determined using the Widmark method at 60 min. intervals. Moisture and temperature of the surroundings were measured simultaneously. The alcohol levels decrease to zero or 0,3% values 3 to 4 hrs. after the application of stains.", "contents": "[Decrease in the alcohol level in blood and urine stains]. Changes in the known alcohol levels in blood and urine stains on different underlays were studied. Alcohol levels were determined using the Widmark method at 60 min. intervals. Moisture and temperature of the surroundings were measured simultaneously. The alcohol levels decrease to zero or 0,3% values 3 to 4 hrs. after the application of stains.", "PMID": 441759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5388", "title": "[Medico-legal investigations of 66 homicides].", "content": "The experiences gained from the medicolegal investigation of murdered 34 women an 32 men are being dealt with. In the causes of death prevailed the combined injuries, followed by the blunt force injuries, asphyxia, injuries by gunfire and sharp force injuries. In the majority of cases the offenders are men up to the age of 30. The investigation covered the laboratory examination of the clothes of the victims and offenders, biological stains, histology and hairs. 22% of the victims and 60% of the offenders were under the influence of alcohol at the time of homicide. Drugs were found in 19% of the victims and 20% of the offenders. The medicolegal investigation of homicide requires further and improved methods especially in the examination of biological stains.", "contents": "[Medico-legal investigations of 66 homicides]. The experiences gained from the medicolegal investigation of murdered 34 women an 32 men are being dealt with. In the causes of death prevailed the combined injuries, followed by the blunt force injuries, asphyxia, injuries by gunfire and sharp force injuries. In the majority of cases the offenders are men up to the age of 30. The investigation covered the laboratory examination of the clothes of the victims and offenders, biological stains, histology and hairs. 22% of the victims and 60% of the offenders were under the influence of alcohol at the time of homicide. Drugs were found in 19% of the victims and 20% of the offenders. The medicolegal investigation of homicide requires further and improved methods especially in the examination of biological stains.", "PMID": 441760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5389", "title": "Hemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis.", "content": "We describe a case of Hemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis in a previously healthy 26-year-old man, and review 21 cases from the literature. Although H parainfluenzae is considered to be part of the normal flora of the upper respiratory tract in man, it can cause serious disease. H parainfluenzae endocarditis is often difficult to diagnose. The patients generally had a history of recent infection of the upper respiratory tract, but a majority denied previous heart disease. Upon entry to the hospital, after an average of seven weeks of febrile illness, nearly one third of patients were found not to have a heart murmur. Furthermore, the organism was often difficult to grow from blood cultures, a problem possibly related to the need for accessory growth factors. The mortality with modern therapy was 12%, and the major complication was cerebral embolus. Antibiotic therapy of choice is ampicillin, generally used together with an aminoglycoside, though ampicillin alone may be sufficient.", "contents": "Hemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis. We describe a case of Hemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis in a previously healthy 26-year-old man, and review 21 cases from the literature. Although H parainfluenzae is considered to be part of the normal flora of the upper respiratory tract in man, it can cause serious disease. H parainfluenzae endocarditis is often difficult to diagnose. The patients generally had a history of recent infection of the upper respiratory tract, but a majority denied previous heart disease. Upon entry to the hospital, after an average of seven weeks of febrile illness, nearly one third of patients were found not to have a heart murmur. Furthermore, the organism was often difficult to grow from blood cultures, a problem possibly related to the need for accessory growth factors. The mortality with modern therapy was 12%, and the major complication was cerebral embolus. Antibiotic therapy of choice is ampicillin, generally used together with an aminoglycoside, though ampicillin alone may be sufficient.", "PMID": 441762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5390", "title": "Infectious mononucleosis with severe neutropenia and opsonic antineutrophil activity.", "content": "Severe granulocytopenia is an uncommon complication of infectious mononucleosis, only 18 cases having been reported previously. Our review and experience with this case would indicate that (1) severe granulocytopenia is usually diagnosed at about the third or fourth week of illness, (2) bone marrow examination most commonly reveals lack of mature neutrophil precursors in the myelocytic series, (3) the duration of usually short, lasting about a week, and (4) most patients recover without treatment. The laboratory findings in our case suggests that the neutropenia may be antibody mediated.", "contents": "Infectious mononucleosis with severe neutropenia and opsonic antineutrophil activity. Severe granulocytopenia is an uncommon complication of infectious mononucleosis, only 18 cases having been reported previously. Our review and experience with this case would indicate that (1) severe granulocytopenia is usually diagnosed at about the third or fourth week of illness, (2) bone marrow examination most commonly reveals lack of mature neutrophil precursors in the myelocytic series, (3) the duration of usually short, lasting about a week, and (4) most patients recover without treatment. The laboratory findings in our case suggests that the neutropenia may be antibody mediated.", "PMID": 441763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5391", "title": "Posterior pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle: a prospective echocardiographic diagnosis.", "content": "A 69-year-old man had a posterior pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle shown by echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. The patient had resection of the pseudoaneurysm and did well. The case illustrates the usefulness of echocardiography for detecting and evaluating left ventricular pseudoaneurysm and the effectiveness of surgery for that entity.", "contents": "Posterior pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle: a prospective echocardiographic diagnosis. A 69-year-old man had a posterior pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle shown by echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. The patient had resection of the pseudoaneurysm and did well. The case illustrates the usefulness of echocardiography for detecting and evaluating left ventricular pseudoaneurysm and the effectiveness of surgery for that entity.", "PMID": 441764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5392", "title": "In utero distal pulmonary meconium aspiration.", "content": "We have recently had eight cases of severe meconium aspiration syndrome which occurred despite clearing of the posterior pharynx of meconium after delivery of the head but before delivery of the body. Seven of the eight cases had documented fetal distress before delivery. Two stillborns with meconium aspiration are presented and illustrate that electronic fetal monitoring and aggressive obstetric intervention should be coupled with the suctioning technic to prevent significant mortality and morbidity associated with meconium-stained deliveries.", "contents": "In utero distal pulmonary meconium aspiration. We have recently had eight cases of severe meconium aspiration syndrome which occurred despite clearing of the posterior pharynx of meconium after delivery of the head but before delivery of the body. Seven of the eight cases had documented fetal distress before delivery. Two stillborns with meconium aspiration are presented and illustrate that electronic fetal monitoring and aggressive obstetric intervention should be coupled with the suctioning technic to prevent significant mortality and morbidity associated with meconium-stained deliveries.", "PMID": 441765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5393", "title": "Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease.", "content": "Three new cases of gastroduodenal Crohn's disease are presented, two with obstruction and one with massive gastrointestinal bleeding. Of the 124 cases reported in the literature up to 1972, only four had massive gastrointestinal bleeding. An accurate preoperative diagnosis is difficult. When peptic epigastric distress and retention type of vomiting are associated with diarrhea, the diagnosis of gastroduodenal Crohn's disease should be strongly considered. A surgical bypass procedure or resection is indicated when symptoms of duodenal obstruction do not respond to medical treatment.", "contents": "Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease. Three new cases of gastroduodenal Crohn's disease are presented, two with obstruction and one with massive gastrointestinal bleeding. Of the 124 cases reported in the literature up to 1972, only four had massive gastrointestinal bleeding. An accurate preoperative diagnosis is difficult. When peptic epigastric distress and retention type of vomiting are associated with diarrhea, the diagnosis of gastroduodenal Crohn's disease should be strongly considered. A surgical bypass procedure or resection is indicated when symptoms of duodenal obstruction do not respond to medical treatment.", "PMID": 441766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5394", "title": "Myopathy of chronic organophosphate poisoning: a clinical entity?", "content": "The acute aspects of organophosphate poisoning are well understood. Persistent weakness and muscular wasting in some cases have been attributed to neuropathic effects resulting in muscular atrophy from denervation. Recently, necrosis of skeletal muscle has been induced by chronic inhibition of cholinesterase with organic phosphates in a reproducible experimental model. The literature on organophosphate poisoning in man alludes to cases in which it appears plausible to postulate this mechanism as a cause of a residual myopathy. A new case in which chronic organophosphate intoxication may be implicated in the etiology of a proximal myopathy is presented. Reports of additional cases, followed up from the onset of symptoms, are needed to determine whether primary myopathic effects are a clinically significant complication of chronic organophosphate poisoning.", "contents": "Myopathy of chronic organophosphate poisoning: a clinical entity? The acute aspects of organophosphate poisoning are well understood. Persistent weakness and muscular wasting in some cases have been attributed to neuropathic effects resulting in muscular atrophy from denervation. Recently, necrosis of skeletal muscle has been induced by chronic inhibition of cholinesterase with organic phosphates in a reproducible experimental model. The literature on organophosphate poisoning in man alludes to cases in which it appears plausible to postulate this mechanism as a cause of a residual myopathy. A new case in which chronic organophosphate intoxication may be implicated in the etiology of a proximal myopathy is presented. Reports of additional cases, followed up from the onset of symptoms, are needed to determine whether primary myopathic effects are a clinically significant complication of chronic organophosphate poisoning.", "PMID": 441767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5395", "title": "Arthrography in acute shoulder dislocations.", "content": "Arthrography of the shoulder was performed on 50 patients with acute traumatic shoulder dislocations. The mean interval between injury and arthrogram was 2.3 days, with a median interval of one day. Anterior dislocations occurred in 96% of patients, and posterior dislocations in 4%. Initial dislocations were present in 74%, and recurrent dislocations in 26%. The most frequent abnormality identified or arthrograms was an enlarged but intact shoulder capsule (58%), most commonly seen in shoulders subject to recurrent dislocations (77%). Shoulder joint capsular tears or disruptions were seen in 48% of the patients. The next most common lesion was fracture (52%), identified on standard roentgenograms. These included Hill-Sachs lesions (28%), greater tuberosity fractures (22%), and coracoid fractures (2%). Ruptures of the rotator cuff, present in 28% of the cases (14 patients), occurred more frequently in initial dislocations (62%) than in recurrent ones (36%). The high frequency of enlarged intact shoulder capsules, even after an acute initial joint dislocation (58%), suggests that the humeral head does not routinely rupture the capsule during dislocation, but rather tears the glenoid labrum at its bony attachment and dislocates subperiosteally, dissecting a false pouch below the periosteum and under the subscapularis.", "contents": "Arthrography in acute shoulder dislocations. Arthrography of the shoulder was performed on 50 patients with acute traumatic shoulder dislocations. The mean interval between injury and arthrogram was 2.3 days, with a median interval of one day. Anterior dislocations occurred in 96% of patients, and posterior dislocations in 4%. Initial dislocations were present in 74%, and recurrent dislocations in 26%. The most frequent abnormality identified or arthrograms was an enlarged but intact shoulder capsule (58%), most commonly seen in shoulders subject to recurrent dislocations (77%). Shoulder joint capsular tears or disruptions were seen in 48% of the patients. The next most common lesion was fracture (52%), identified on standard roentgenograms. These included Hill-Sachs lesions (28%), greater tuberosity fractures (22%), and coracoid fractures (2%). Ruptures of the rotator cuff, present in 28% of the cases (14 patients), occurred more frequently in initial dislocations (62%) than in recurrent ones (36%). The high frequency of enlarged intact shoulder capsules, even after an acute initial joint dislocation (58%), suggests that the humeral head does not routinely rupture the capsule during dislocation, but rather tears the glenoid labrum at its bony attachment and dislocates subperiosteally, dissecting a false pouch below the periosteum and under the subscapularis.", "PMID": 441768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5396", "title": "Pulmonary function studies in acute pulmonary histoplasmosis.", "content": "We performed follow-up pulmonary function studies on three patients with acute pulmonary histoplasmosis over a period of several months, and found that the disease is benign and usually responds well to treatment or is self-limiting. There are four major changes in lung function, namely a restrictive defect, an impairment of diffusing capacity, stiff lung, and obstruction in small airways. These changes usually lead to disturbance of ventilation-perfusion ratios and impaired gas transport across alveolar capillary membranes, resulting in arterial hypoxemia. There is also hypocapnia from alveolar hyperventilation commonly found in restrictive and stiff lung syndrome.", "contents": "Pulmonary function studies in acute pulmonary histoplasmosis. We performed follow-up pulmonary function studies on three patients with acute pulmonary histoplasmosis over a period of several months, and found that the disease is benign and usually responds well to treatment or is self-limiting. There are four major changes in lung function, namely a restrictive defect, an impairment of diffusing capacity, stiff lung, and obstruction in small airways. These changes usually lead to disturbance of ventilation-perfusion ratios and impaired gas transport across alveolar capillary membranes, resulting in arterial hypoxemia. There is also hypocapnia from alveolar hyperventilation commonly found in restrictive and stiff lung syndrome.", "PMID": 441769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5397", "title": "Preoperative diagnosis of splenic abscess by ultrasonography and radionuclide scanning.", "content": "Abscess of the spleen is uncommon and potentially lethal, but until recently it was rarely diagnosed except by exploratory celiotomy or at autopsy. Now, with the advent of radionuclide scanning, ultrasonography, and selective angiography, earlier diagnosis is possible in most cases. We report a case of traumatic abscess of the spleen, which was diagnosed preoperatively and ultrasonography and scanning with gallium citrate Ga 67 and technetium Tc 99m without the need for the more invasive technic of angiography.", "contents": "Preoperative diagnosis of splenic abscess by ultrasonography and radionuclide scanning. Abscess of the spleen is uncommon and potentially lethal, but until recently it was rarely diagnosed except by exploratory celiotomy or at autopsy. Now, with the advent of radionuclide scanning, ultrasonography, and selective angiography, earlier diagnosis is possible in most cases. We report a case of traumatic abscess of the spleen, which was diagnosed preoperatively and ultrasonography and scanning with gallium citrate Ga 67 and technetium Tc 99m without the need for the more invasive technic of angiography.", "PMID": 441770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5398", "title": "Value of nephrotomography in evaluating nonvisualized kidney in renal absence: the colon sign.", "content": "Nephrotomography is a simple, highly accurate, noninvasive procedure and is extremely helpful in differentiating a nonvisualized kidney due to renal agenesis, ectopia, or nephrectomy from other acquired renal diseases. Early recognition of the characteristic malpositioning of the colon, \"the colon sign,\" eliminates the need for more invasive investigations.", "contents": "Value of nephrotomography in evaluating nonvisualized kidney in renal absence: the colon sign. Nephrotomography is a simple, highly accurate, noninvasive procedure and is extremely helpful in differentiating a nonvisualized kidney due to renal agenesis, ectopia, or nephrectomy from other acquired renal diseases. Early recognition of the characteristic malpositioning of the colon, \"the colon sign,\" eliminates the need for more invasive investigations.", "PMID": 441771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5399", "title": "Microsurgical technics in reconstructive surgery of the fallopian tube.", "content": "Only in the last few years have gynecologists begun to investigate the use of microsurgical technics. Investigators in Europe, Canada, and the United States have recently reported improvements in patency and intrauterine pregnancy rates using these meticulous technics. At Vanderbilt University Medical Center, gynecologic microsurgery has been applied for the last two years, and this report reviews our experience in 24 patients undergoing reversal of a previous sterilization. Preoperative counseling and evaluation of patients considering surgery are discussed. Technical points regarding choice of instruments, intraoperative technics, and ancillary therapy, such as steroids, postoperative hydrotubation, and the use of intraperitoneal dextran, are reviewed. The results are presented and compared with reports using conventional surgical technics for reversal of female sterilization.", "contents": "Microsurgical technics in reconstructive surgery of the fallopian tube. Only in the last few years have gynecologists begun to investigate the use of microsurgical technics. Investigators in Europe, Canada, and the United States have recently reported improvements in patency and intrauterine pregnancy rates using these meticulous technics. At Vanderbilt University Medical Center, gynecologic microsurgery has been applied for the last two years, and this report reviews our experience in 24 patients undergoing reversal of a previous sterilization. Preoperative counseling and evaluation of patients considering surgery are discussed. Technical points regarding choice of instruments, intraoperative technics, and ancillary therapy, such as steroids, postoperative hydrotubation, and the use of intraperitoneal dextran, are reviewed. The results are presented and compared with reports using conventional surgical technics for reversal of female sterilization.", "PMID": 441772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5400", "title": "Serum ferritin as an early determinant of decreased iron stores in pregnant women.", "content": "Serum ferritin has been shown to be an excellent determinant of iron stores. In a consecutive group of women registering at the regular prenatal clinic, we measured serum ferritin, iron, iron-binding capacity, and hemoglobin to determine their hematologic status as to anemia. It was found that serum ferritin is the most sensitive determinant of depleted iron stores, with serum iron being next in sensitivity. This assay is a rapid, economic, sensitive measure of iron stores, and results are not altered significantly by other types of anemia or oral iron therapy.", "contents": "Serum ferritin as an early determinant of decreased iron stores in pregnant women. Serum ferritin has been shown to be an excellent determinant of iron stores. In a consecutive group of women registering at the regular prenatal clinic, we measured serum ferritin, iron, iron-binding capacity, and hemoglobin to determine their hematologic status as to anemia. It was found that serum ferritin is the most sensitive determinant of depleted iron stores, with serum iron being next in sensitivity. This assay is a rapid, economic, sensitive measure of iron stores, and results are not altered significantly by other types of anemia or oral iron therapy.", "PMID": 441773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5401", "title": "Rat bite fever misdiagnosed as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.", "content": "A patient who had been exposed to ticks and who had also been bitten by a laboratory rat developed fever, headache, and a rash. He was treated with chloramphenicol for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and recovered. Blood cultures, however, grew Streptobacillus moniliformis, a causative agent of rat bite fever. The case report illustrates the clinical similarities between rat bite fever and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.", "contents": "Rat bite fever misdiagnosed as Rocky Mountain spotted fever. A patient who had been exposed to ticks and who had also been bitten by a laboratory rat developed fever, headache, and a rash. He was treated with chloramphenicol for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and recovered. Blood cultures, however, grew Streptobacillus moniliformis, a causative agent of rat bite fever. The case report illustrates the clinical similarities between rat bite fever and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.", "PMID": 441774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5402", "title": "Treatment of localized pulmonary phycomycosis.", "content": "A patient cured of localized pulmonary phycomycosis occurring at the site of a previous lung abscess is described and the other survivors of this unusual entity are discussed. Whole-lung computerized tomographic (CT) scanning was useful in confirming the presence of a single localized lesion and led to the choice of surgical excision. A diagnostic and therapeutic approach including whole-lung CT scanning and preoperative and postoperative systemic amphotericin B therapy is suggested pending pathologic review of the tissues for possible fungal invasion beyond the resected area. The value of surgical excision when the disease appears localized is emphasized.", "contents": "Treatment of localized pulmonary phycomycosis. A patient cured of localized pulmonary phycomycosis occurring at the site of a previous lung abscess is described and the other survivors of this unusual entity are discussed. Whole-lung computerized tomographic (CT) scanning was useful in confirming the presence of a single localized lesion and led to the choice of surgical excision. A diagnostic and therapeutic approach including whole-lung CT scanning and preoperative and postoperative systemic amphotericin B therapy is suggested pending pathologic review of the tissues for possible fungal invasion beyond the resected area. The value of surgical excision when the disease appears localized is emphasized.", "PMID": 441775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5403", "title": "Percutaneous catheterization of the gallbladder with ultrasonic guidance.", "content": "We have described a case in which the gallbladder was catheterized by the Seldinger technic, using ultrasonic guidance. The biliary tree was flushed until clear and free passage of bile into the duodenum occurred. Thick inspissated bile can cause intrinsic echoes in the gallbladder that can be mistaken for gallstones.", "contents": "Percutaneous catheterization of the gallbladder with ultrasonic guidance. We have described a case in which the gallbladder was catheterized by the Seldinger technic, using ultrasonic guidance. The biliary tree was flushed until clear and free passage of bile into the duodenum occurred. Thick inspissated bile can cause intrinsic echoes in the gallbladder that can be mistaken for gallstones.", "PMID": 441776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5404", "title": "Hypoplasia of the abdominal aorta associated with rubella syndrome.", "content": "Our patient, a 23-year-old white woman with congenital rubella syndrome, presented with claudication and upper extremity hypertension. To our knowledge this is the first patient with congenital rubella syndrome to present with an abdominal coarctation. Since 75% of the patients with abdominal coarctation are young women, this may be only a chance association.", "contents": "Hypoplasia of the abdominal aorta associated with rubella syndrome. Our patient, a 23-year-old white woman with congenital rubella syndrome, presented with claudication and upper extremity hypertension. To our knowledge this is the first patient with congenital rubella syndrome to present with an abdominal coarctation. Since 75% of the patients with abdominal coarctation are young women, this may be only a chance association.", "PMID": 441778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5405", "title": "Gonadoblastoma associated with malignant teratoma.", "content": "A case of gonadoblastoma associated with malignant teratoma in the contralateral ovary is described. Considerations are offered concerning the malignant potential of dysgenetic gonads as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in such situations.", "contents": "Gonadoblastoma associated with malignant teratoma. A case of gonadoblastoma associated with malignant teratoma in the contralateral ovary is described. Considerations are offered concerning the malignant potential of dysgenetic gonads as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in such situations.", "PMID": 441779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5406", "title": "Penile tourniquet syndrome caused by hair.", "content": "We have described two circumcised children who developed a urethral fistula caused by long hairs constricting and ulcerating the penis. These cases are presented to remind physicians to examine the infant's penis when he presents with a swollen glans, abnormal urinary stream, and a parent with long hair.", "contents": "Penile tourniquet syndrome caused by hair. We have described two circumcised children who developed a urethral fistula caused by long hairs constricting and ulcerating the penis. These cases are presented to remind physicians to examine the infant's penis when he presents with a swollen glans, abnormal urinary stream, and a parent with long hair.", "PMID": 441780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5407", "title": "Intussusception after jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "We have described a case of intussusception of the defunctionalized loop of small bowel after jejunoileal bypass. This complication may be avoidable by suturing the free end of the proximal jejunum to the root of the transverse mesocolon. Diagnosis is aided by closely placing silver clips on these same structures and observing for their separation on radiographs of the abdomen.", "contents": "Intussusception after jejunoileal bypass. We have described a case of intussusception of the defunctionalized loop of small bowel after jejunoileal bypass. This complication may be avoidable by suturing the free end of the proximal jejunum to the root of the transverse mesocolon. Diagnosis is aided by closely placing silver clips on these same structures and observing for their separation on radiographs of the abdomen.", "PMID": 441782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5408", "title": "Fibrous dysplasia and precocious puberty (McCune-Albright syndrome).", "content": "A patient with fibrous dysplasia and precocious puberty, with pneumogynographic demonstration of an enlarged uterus and ovaries at age 16 months has been followed up to age 14 years. The pneumogynographic findings and the chemistries implicate central nervous system stimulation as the cause of the precocious puberty.", "contents": "Fibrous dysplasia and precocious puberty (McCune-Albright syndrome). A patient with fibrous dysplasia and precocious puberty, with pneumogynographic demonstration of an enlarged uterus and ovaries at age 16 months has been followed up to age 14 years. The pneumogynographic findings and the chemistries implicate central nervous system stimulation as the cause of the precocious puberty.", "PMID": 441783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5409", "title": "Lightning: a rare cause of intrauterine death with maternal survival.", "content": "Being struck by lightning is frequently a fatal event. Prompt attention to cardiopulmonary resuscitation, even in the patient who appears dead, will often bring dramatic results. In the pregnant patient, one can only hope that rapid restoration of cardiac and pulmonary activity will decrease perinatal mortality.", "contents": "Lightning: a rare cause of intrauterine death with maternal survival. Being struck by lightning is frequently a fatal event. Prompt attention to cardiopulmonary resuscitation, even in the patient who appears dead, will often bring dramatic results. In the pregnant patient, one can only hope that rapid restoration of cardiac and pulmonary activity will decrease perinatal mortality.", "PMID": 441784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5410", "title": "Gaucher disease in the Afrikaner population of South Africa.", "content": "The chronic non-neuropathic form of Gaucher disease has been encountered in 10 individuals in the Afrikaner population of South Africa. The minimum prevalence in this community is 1 in 200 000 with a gene frequency of 0,0022, a heterozygote rate of 0,0044 and at least 9 000 clinically asymptomatic carriers of the abnormal gene. This gene must be present in about 1 in every 220 Afrikaners. The majority of previously reported patients have been Ashkenazi Jews, in whom the condition is relatively benign. By contrast, the disorder in the Afrikaners is precocious in onset, with serious complications and rapid progression. The occurrence of Gaucher disease in a relatively high frequency in the Afrikaner population is important in terms of differential diagnosis, genetic counselling and prevention.", "contents": "Gaucher disease in the Afrikaner population of South Africa. The chronic non-neuropathic form of Gaucher disease has been encountered in 10 individuals in the Afrikaner population of South Africa. The minimum prevalence in this community is 1 in 200 000 with a gene frequency of 0,0022, a heterozygote rate of 0,0044 and at least 9 000 clinically asymptomatic carriers of the abnormal gene. This gene must be present in about 1 in every 220 Afrikaners. The majority of previously reported patients have been Ashkenazi Jews, in whom the condition is relatively benign. By contrast, the disorder in the Afrikaners is precocious in onset, with serious complications and rapid progression. The occurrence of Gaucher disease in a relatively high frequency in the Afrikaner population is important in terms of differential diagnosis, genetic counselling and prevention.", "PMID": 441851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5411", "title": "Blood viscosity during fluid infusion in the preterm infant.", "content": "Whole blood viscosity, haematocrit and plasma osmolality were measured in a group of preterm infants receiving a standard infusion (60 ml/kg/d) of 10,7% dextrose water with 4% sodium bicarbonate. There were no significant changes in the three parameters during the infusion period. It was concluded that although the infused solution was hypertonic, it did not result in a hyperviscous or hyperosmolar state.", "contents": "Blood viscosity during fluid infusion in the preterm infant. Whole blood viscosity, haematocrit and plasma osmolality were measured in a group of preterm infants receiving a standard infusion (60 ml/kg/d) of 10,7% dextrose water with 4% sodium bicarbonate. There were no significant changes in the three parameters during the infusion period. It was concluded that although the infused solution was hypertonic, it did not result in a hyperviscous or hyperosmolar state.", "PMID": 441852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5412", "title": "Decompression sickness in South African sport divers.", "content": "During the period 1 January 1969 to 31 December 1977 56 underwater diving accidents were reported among amateur sport divers in South Africa. Of these, 4 were diagnosed and treated as decompression sickness (DS), an incidence of 7%. Analysis of the 4 cases of DS indicates that they were all in the serious type II neurological category. This is in keeping with results found in Hawaii and Australia, and the reasons for this finding are discussed. An emergency medical system (EMS) for on-site, pre-chamber and decompression chamber treatment is discussed.", "contents": "Decompression sickness in South African sport divers. During the period 1 January 1969 to 31 December 1977 56 underwater diving accidents were reported among amateur sport divers in South Africa. Of these, 4 were diagnosed and treated as decompression sickness (DS), an incidence of 7%. Analysis of the 4 cases of DS indicates that they were all in the serious type II neurological category. This is in keeping with results found in Hawaii and Australia, and the reasons for this finding are discussed. An emergency medical system (EMS) for on-site, pre-chamber and decompression chamber treatment is discussed.", "PMID": 441853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5413", "title": "The value of the anteroposterior radiograph in 'hidden' fractures and dislocations of the lower cervical spine. A case report.", "content": "Fractures and dislocations of the cervical spine may be overlooked if the lower cervical vertebrae are not adequately demonstrated on the supine lateral radiograph. Failure to diagnose cervical spinal injury radiologically may have tragic consequences should delayed spinal cord damage ensue. A case report illustrating this is presented. Since no difficulty is encountered in demonstrating the lower cervical vertebrae on the anteroposterior view with the patient supine, careful attention to the position and appearances of the spinous processes on this radiograph may enable diagnosis of fractures and/or dislocations to be made. Three radiological signs of value are discussed.", "contents": "The value of the anteroposterior radiograph in 'hidden' fractures and dislocations of the lower cervical spine. A case report. Fractures and dislocations of the cervical spine may be overlooked if the lower cervical vertebrae are not adequately demonstrated on the supine lateral radiograph. Failure to diagnose cervical spinal injury radiologically may have tragic consequences should delayed spinal cord damage ensue. A case report illustrating this is presented. Since no difficulty is encountered in demonstrating the lower cervical vertebrae on the anteroposterior view with the patient supine, careful attention to the position and appearances of the spinous processes on this radiograph may enable diagnosis of fractures and/or dislocations to be made. Three radiological signs of value are discussed.", "PMID": 441854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5414", "title": "Treatment of familial hypercholesterolaemia by partial ileal bypass.", "content": "Ten patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (Fredrickson type II) were treated by the operation of partial ileal bypass. Postoperatively, serum cholesterol levels fell by an average of 34% (P less than 0.005), and the decrease was satisfactorily sustained over a period of 12-30 months. Angina and xanthomas also improved in some patients. Postoperatively all patients experienced considerable diarrhoea, which lessened with time. Other complications of surgery included abdominal distension and cramps, colonic dilatation, sepsis and intestinal obstruction. It is concluded that partial ileal bypass significantly lowers serum cholesterol levels, but that in view of the complications the operation should be offered only to carefully selected patients who are intolerant of or unresponsive to conservative measures.", "contents": "Treatment of familial hypercholesterolaemia by partial ileal bypass. Ten patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (Fredrickson type II) were treated by the operation of partial ileal bypass. Postoperatively, serum cholesterol levels fell by an average of 34% (P less than 0.005), and the decrease was satisfactorily sustained over a period of 12-30 months. Angina and xanthomas also improved in some patients. Postoperatively all patients experienced considerable diarrhoea, which lessened with time. Other complications of surgery included abdominal distension and cramps, colonic dilatation, sepsis and intestinal obstruction. It is concluded that partial ileal bypass significantly lowers serum cholesterol levels, but that in view of the complications the operation should be offered only to carefully selected patients who are intolerant of or unresponsive to conservative measures.", "PMID": 441862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5415", "title": "Hypertension in urban Black outpatients. Who gets treated and for how long?", "content": "Two-thirds of all Black patients who attended the Medical Outpatient Department of the Johannesburg General Hospital for the first time during May 1975 had recorded diastolic blood pressures of 90 mmHg or above. Almost one-third of all patients were treated for hypertension. About half of the patients with diastolic blood pressures between 90 and 119 mmHg were started on treatment, a decision which was predicted by diastolic blood pressure, recorded symptoms and systolic blood pressure, but not by age. Four of the 50 patients with diastolic blood pressures of 120 mmHg or above were not treated. Less than one-third of all patients started on anti-hypertensive treatment were still returning for treatment at the end of 1 year. There was no difference in initial diastolic blood pressure between those patients who did and those who did not return for treatment. Hospital policies are required for standardizing initial decision-making and long-term treatment of hypertension. Strategies to improve compliance by altering health care delivery and changing patient behaviour must be developed and evaluated.", "contents": "Hypertension in urban Black outpatients. Who gets treated and for how long? Two-thirds of all Black patients who attended the Medical Outpatient Department of the Johannesburg General Hospital for the first time during May 1975 had recorded diastolic blood pressures of 90 mmHg or above. Almost one-third of all patients were treated for hypertension. About half of the patients with diastolic blood pressures between 90 and 119 mmHg were started on treatment, a decision which was predicted by diastolic blood pressure, recorded symptoms and systolic blood pressure, but not by age. Four of the 50 patients with diastolic blood pressures of 120 mmHg or above were not treated. Less than one-third of all patients started on anti-hypertensive treatment were still returning for treatment at the end of 1 year. There was no difference in initial diastolic blood pressure between those patients who did and those who did not return for treatment. Hospital policies are required for standardizing initial decision-making and long-term treatment of hypertension. Strategies to improve compliance by altering health care delivery and changing patient behaviour must be developed and evaluated.", "PMID": 441863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5416", "title": "Rubella infection and other factors associated with congenital cataracts in Cape Town.", "content": "An analysis of 56 patients with congenital cataracts was made to determine which factors played a role in the causation of these lenticular defects in Cape Town. There is good evidence that 16% of the defects were caused by intra-uterine rubella virus infection and that a further 30% were hereditary in origin.", "contents": "Rubella infection and other factors associated with congenital cataracts in Cape Town. An analysis of 56 patients with congenital cataracts was made to determine which factors played a role in the causation of these lenticular defects in Cape Town. There is good evidence that 16% of the defects were caused by intra-uterine rubella virus infection and that a further 30% were hereditary in origin.", "PMID": 441864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5417", "title": "[Community psychiatry and general practice].", "content": "As part of the development of a comprehensive community-orientated psychiatric service, a questionnaire with multiple-choice answers was sent to 244 general practitioners in the catchment area of Stikland Hospital. The attitudes and opinions expressed regarding certain principles of community psychiatry are analysed and discussed.", "contents": "[Community psychiatry and general practice]. As part of the development of a comprehensive community-orientated psychiatric service, a questionnaire with multiple-choice answers was sent to 244 general practitioners in the catchment area of Stikland Hospital. The attitudes and opinions expressed regarding certain principles of community psychiatry are analysed and discussed.", "PMID": 441865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5418", "title": "[Occupational health as a priority].", "content": "The development of occupational health services in the Republic of South Africa has been limited by three factors. Firstly, occupational safety completely overshadowed occupational health. Secondly, about 8 state departments were active in its administration. Thirdly, occupational health was not interpreted as a preventable disease under the old Public Health Act No. 36 of 1919, and was hence excluded from the usual community health activities. The recommendations of the 1975 Commission of Inquiry that occupational health should fall under the scope of the Department of Health, and that the National Research Institute for Occupational Diseases should be transferred from the South African Medical Research Council to the Department of Health, have not yet been implemented. The advantages of such implementation and the estimated costs involved are discussed. A primary prerequisite is that all occupational diseases should be made notifiable diseases.", "contents": "[Occupational health as a priority]. The development of occupational health services in the Republic of South Africa has been limited by three factors. Firstly, occupational safety completely overshadowed occupational health. Secondly, about 8 state departments were active in its administration. Thirdly, occupational health was not interpreted as a preventable disease under the old Public Health Act No. 36 of 1919, and was hence excluded from the usual community health activities. The recommendations of the 1975 Commission of Inquiry that occupational health should fall under the scope of the Department of Health, and that the National Research Institute for Occupational Diseases should be transferred from the South African Medical Research Council to the Department of Health, have not yet been implemented. The advantages of such implementation and the estimated costs involved are discussed. A primary prerequisite is that all occupational diseases should be made notifiable diseases.", "PMID": 441866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5419", "title": "Agnogenic myeloid metaplasia and spinal cord compression.", "content": "A 55-year-old White male with agnogenic myeloid metaplasia, proved on bone marrow trephine biopsy, underwent splenectomy for abdominal discomfort. Six months later he developed paraparesis and on myelography multiple extradural obstructions were seen. In the absence of other obvious diagnostic possibilities, these were attributed to areas of extramedullary haematopoiesis, and he was treated with local radiotherapy. However, the neurological deficit progressed and emergency laminectomy and decompression were undertaken. Tissue obtained at this time confirmed the diagnosis of agnogenic myeloid metaplasia. A repeat myelogram showed complete relief of the obstruction, but the patient developed fulminating septicaemia and died. These findings are reported in view of the great rarity of spinal cord compression due to multiple areas of extramedullary haematopoiesis.", "contents": "Agnogenic myeloid metaplasia and spinal cord compression. A 55-year-old White male with agnogenic myeloid metaplasia, proved on bone marrow trephine biopsy, underwent splenectomy for abdominal discomfort. Six months later he developed paraparesis and on myelography multiple extradural obstructions were seen. In the absence of other obvious diagnostic possibilities, these were attributed to areas of extramedullary haematopoiesis, and he was treated with local radiotherapy. However, the neurological deficit progressed and emergency laminectomy and decompression were undertaken. Tissue obtained at this time confirmed the diagnosis of agnogenic myeloid metaplasia. A repeat myelogram showed complete relief of the obstruction, but the patient developed fulminating septicaemia and died. These findings are reported in view of the great rarity of spinal cord compression due to multiple areas of extramedullary haematopoiesis.", "PMID": 441867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5420", "title": "[A new method of measuring serotonin in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid].", "content": "A new rapid method for the microdetermination of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid is described. A recovery coefficient of 98% was obtained in the present method, with the use of [3H]-hydroxytryptamine creatinine sulphate as an internal standard, compared with recovery coefficients of 31% and 66% for the two existing methods generally used for serotonin determination. This method involves a one-step sample deproteinization by perchloric acid, resulting in a high stability of serotonin.", "contents": "[A new method of measuring serotonin in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid]. A new rapid method for the microdetermination of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid is described. A recovery coefficient of 98% was obtained in the present method, with the use of [3H]-hydroxytryptamine creatinine sulphate as an internal standard, compared with recovery coefficients of 31% and 66% for the two existing methods generally used for serotonin determination. This method involves a one-step sample deproteinization by perchloric acid, resulting in a high stability of serotonin.", "PMID": 441868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5421", "title": "Eosinophilic fasciitis. A case report.", "content": "We describe a patient with a scleroderma-like illness which involved the arms and legs but not the face and hands. Clinical, laboratory and histological features were those of the recently described syndrome, eosinophilic fasciitis. This rare condition is worthy of note because it appears to have a much better prognosis than conventional scleroderma, and because it responds very well to corticosteroid therapy.", "contents": "Eosinophilic fasciitis. A case report. We describe a patient with a scleroderma-like illness which involved the arms and legs but not the face and hands. Clinical, laboratory and histological features were those of the recently described syndrome, eosinophilic fasciitis. This rare condition is worthy of note because it appears to have a much better prognosis than conventional scleroderma, and because it responds very well to corticosteroid therapy.", "PMID": 441869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5422", "title": "Serum ferritin estimation in the assessment of iron stores in severe iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy and the response to treatment.", "content": "Serum ferritin estimation was used to determine the iron stores in 55 patients with severe iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy. The response to oral or intravenous iron therapy was monitored in 18 of these patients. The results in all cases indicated deficient iron stores. Replenishment of iron stores was significantly greater in those patients treated with parenteral iron. This may be the treatment of choice for severe iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy.", "contents": "Serum ferritin estimation in the assessment of iron stores in severe iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy and the response to treatment. Serum ferritin estimation was used to determine the iron stores in 55 patients with severe iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy. The response to oral or intravenous iron therapy was monitored in 18 of these patients. The results in all cases indicated deficient iron stores. Replenishment of iron stores was significantly greater in those patients treated with parenteral iron. This may be the treatment of choice for severe iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy.", "PMID": 441879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5423", "title": "The clinical syndrome of Impila (Callilepis laureola) poisoning in children.", "content": "The administration of herbal medicines made from Callilepis laureola is common among the Black population in Natal. This practice can and does cause poisoning, which has only been diagnosed with any confidence at postmortem examination, where the characteristic hepatic and renal tubular necrosis is obvious. Necropsy records of 50 children in whom these typical histological changes were noted were analysed retrospectively in order to determine the clinical picture. Results show that the disease can be recognized in young Black children when there is hypoglycaemia and an alteration in the level of consciousness, together with evidence of hepatic and renal dysfunction. This syndrome can easily be distinguished from viral hepatitis and fulminant hepatic failure, but less readily from Reye's syndrome.", "contents": "The clinical syndrome of Impila (Callilepis laureola) poisoning in children. The administration of herbal medicines made from Callilepis laureola is common among the Black population in Natal. This practice can and does cause poisoning, which has only been diagnosed with any confidence at postmortem examination, where the characteristic hepatic and renal tubular necrosis is obvious. Necropsy records of 50 children in whom these typical histological changes were noted were analysed retrospectively in order to determine the clinical picture. Results show that the disease can be recognized in young Black children when there is hypoglycaemia and an alteration in the level of consciousness, together with evidence of hepatic and renal dysfunction. This syndrome can easily be distinguished from viral hepatitis and fulminant hepatic failure, but less readily from Reye's syndrome.", "PMID": 441880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5424", "title": "[Carcinoid tumour of the stomach].", "content": "Carcinoid tumours are not common, but have been found along the digestive tract and at other sites in the body. The carcinoid syndrome is associated with some of these tumours. A case of gastric carcinoid, without the syndrome, is discussed, and a review of the biochemistry involved and the treatment is given.", "contents": "[Carcinoid tumour of the stomach]. Carcinoid tumours are not common, but have been found along the digestive tract and at other sites in the body. The carcinoid syndrome is associated with some of these tumours. A case of gastric carcinoid, without the syndrome, is discussed, and a review of the biochemistry involved and the treatment is given.", "PMID": 441882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5425", "title": "Galactosaemia in three Rhodesian infants.", "content": "The clinically relevant types of genetic galactosaemia involve deficiency of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) or galactokinase (EC 2.7.1.6). Specific diagnosis is made by quantitative assay of these two enzymes. Seven Black patients were referred from Harare Hospital, Rhodesia, with features suggestive of galactosaemia. Enzyme assay identified classic homozygous transferase deficiency in 3 of these patients. The incidence in this population was calculated to be 1:52 000.", "contents": "Galactosaemia in three Rhodesian infants. The clinically relevant types of genetic galactosaemia involve deficiency of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) or galactokinase (EC 2.7.1.6). Specific diagnosis is made by quantitative assay of these two enzymes. Seven Black patients were referred from Harare Hospital, Rhodesia, with features suggestive of galactosaemia. Enzyme assay identified classic homozygous transferase deficiency in 3 of these patients. The incidence in this population was calculated to be 1:52 000.", "PMID": 441883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5426", "title": "Haemostatic factors in Black and White diabetics.", "content": "Haemostatic factors in 33 Black and 32 White maturity-onset diabetics were analysed and compared with those in 19 normal Black and 19 White subjects. The Black-White diabetic group comparisons revealed depressed antithrombin (AT) III functional activity, a raised factor VII level and a raised factor V level in females in the White diabetic group. On comparing the White diabetics with their respective controls a rise in factor VIII and fibrinogen activity was demonstrated. These changes are suggestive of a hypercoagulable state in the White maturity-onset diabetic. In contrast, Black diabetics have higher functional AT III levels than their respective controls. This may indicate a protective reaction which would explain in part the reported lower incidence of occlusive vascular disease in this group. Platelet hyperactivity was not demonstrated in the majority of White and Black diabetics. Black diabetics and controls demonstrated higher factor VIII levels than the corresponding White groups, confirming previous observations of raised factor VIII levels among Blacks and suggesting that this feature is a racial characteristic.", "contents": "Haemostatic factors in Black and White diabetics. Haemostatic factors in 33 Black and 32 White maturity-onset diabetics were analysed and compared with those in 19 normal Black and 19 White subjects. The Black-White diabetic group comparisons revealed depressed antithrombin (AT) III functional activity, a raised factor VII level and a raised factor V level in females in the White diabetic group. On comparing the White diabetics with their respective controls a rise in factor VIII and fibrinogen activity was demonstrated. These changes are suggestive of a hypercoagulable state in the White maturity-onset diabetic. In contrast, Black diabetics have higher functional AT III levels than their respective controls. This may indicate a protective reaction which would explain in part the reported lower incidence of occlusive vascular disease in this group. Platelet hyperactivity was not demonstrated in the majority of White and Black diabetics. Black diabetics and controls demonstrated higher factor VIII levels than the corresponding White groups, confirming previous observations of raised factor VIII levels among Blacks and suggesting that this feature is a racial characteristic.", "PMID": 441893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5427", "title": "Treatment with diazepam of children with drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms.", "content": "Thirteen patients with acute dystonia and extrapyramidal symptoms as a result of drug intoxication are reported. In a number of instances, the symptoms were due to more than one drug being given to the patient, among which were phenothiazine derivatives, non-phenothiazine tranquilizers and metoclopramide. Diazepam (Valium) given intravenously caused the patients to fall asleep immediately and to wake within an hour, free from all symptoms. It is felt that in patients with drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, diazepam should be considered as the possible drug of choice.", "contents": "Treatment with diazepam of children with drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms. Thirteen patients with acute dystonia and extrapyramidal symptoms as a result of drug intoxication are reported. In a number of instances, the symptoms were due to more than one drug being given to the patient, among which were phenothiazine derivatives, non-phenothiazine tranquilizers and metoclopramide. Diazepam (Valium) given intravenously caused the patients to fall asleep immediately and to wake within an hour, free from all symptoms. It is felt that in patients with drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, diazepam should be considered as the possible drug of choice.", "PMID": 441894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5428", "title": "The use of glycosylated haemoglobin measurements in the control of the diabetic patient.", "content": "Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) has recently been used as an indicator of long-term diabetic control. This study compares the efficacy of HbA1c measurements and postprandial blood glucose estimations in assessing diabetic control in 51 diabetic patients. It was found that the HbA1c levels reflected overall diabetic control significantly better than did a single postprandial blood glucose estimation. HbA1c measurements give considerable aid in the assessment of the longitudinal blood sugar control in the diabetic, and may be a useful indicator of the efficacy of diabetic treatment.", "contents": "The use of glycosylated haemoglobin measurements in the control of the diabetic patient. Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) has recently been used as an indicator of long-term diabetic control. This study compares the efficacy of HbA1c measurements and postprandial blood glucose estimations in assessing diabetic control in 51 diabetic patients. It was found that the HbA1c levels reflected overall diabetic control significantly better than did a single postprandial blood glucose estimation. HbA1c measurements give considerable aid in the assessment of the longitudinal blood sugar control in the diabetic, and may be a useful indicator of the efficacy of diabetic treatment.", "PMID": 441895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5429", "title": "Protean appearance of craniopharyngioma on computed tomography.", "content": "Craniopharyngiomas present a diverse appearance on computed tomography. Histological diagnosis is not always possible, but computed tomography is of great assistance in the delineation of the tumour as well as of the degree of associated hydrocephalus. Computed tomography also enables rapid non-invasive follow-up after surgery or radiotherapy, or both.", "contents": "Protean appearance of craniopharyngioma on computed tomography. Craniopharyngiomas present a diverse appearance on computed tomography. Histological diagnosis is not always possible, but computed tomography is of great assistance in the delineation of the tumour as well as of the degree of associated hydrocephalus. Computed tomography also enables rapid non-invasive follow-up after surgery or radiotherapy, or both.", "PMID": 441896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5430", "title": "A new method for producing virus plaques in cell cultures.", "content": "Human oesophageal carcinoma cells can be grown on one side of a microporous gelatin membrane and fed from the other side. When they are infected with human herpesvirus type I at high dilutions, they produce plaques of virus-infected cells which can be detected by ordinary staining methods. This procedure may be suitable for the determination of the numbers of infectious particles in preparations of other viruses which are difficult to assay by conventional plaque assay techniques.", "contents": "A new method for producing virus plaques in cell cultures. Human oesophageal carcinoma cells can be grown on one side of a microporous gelatin membrane and fed from the other side. When they are infected with human herpesvirus type I at high dilutions, they produce plaques of virus-infected cells which can be detected by ordinary staining methods. This procedure may be suitable for the determination of the numbers of infectious particles in preparations of other viruses which are difficult to assay by conventional plaque assay techniques.", "PMID": 441897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5431", "title": "Maternal and child care services in rural Kwazulu.", "content": "Two hundred rural Zulu mothers were interviewed individually in order to obtain general information relevant to maternal and child care services, identify specific needs and problems related to the health of mother and child, and determine where the services failed or succeeded in answering these needs and problems. The main findings were the following: very low income per head per household (less than R2 per week), acceptance of both traditional and modern health practices during pregnancy, widespread demand for well-baby services in contrast to the underuse of available child health facilities, and negativism about general health matters.", "contents": "Maternal and child care services in rural Kwazulu. Two hundred rural Zulu mothers were interviewed individually in order to obtain general information relevant to maternal and child care services, identify specific needs and problems related to the health of mother and child, and determine where the services failed or succeeded in answering these needs and problems. The main findings were the following: very low income per head per household (less than R2 per week), acceptance of both traditional and modern health practices during pregnancy, widespread demand for well-baby services in contrast to the underuse of available child health facilities, and negativism about general health matters.", "PMID": 441898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5432", "title": "Angiography in the diagnosis and management of duodenal arteriovenous malformation. A case report.", "content": "A case of duodenojejunal arteriovenous malformation with repeated melaena without apparent cause on endoscopy and barium studies is presented. The importance of arteriography in the diagnosis and management is emphasized.", "contents": "Angiography in the diagnosis and management of duodenal arteriovenous malformation. A case report. A case of duodenojejunal arteriovenous malformation with repeated melaena without apparent cause on endoscopy and barium studies is presented. The importance of arteriography in the diagnosis and management is emphasized.", "PMID": 441899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5433", "title": "Cysteine biosynthesis in a fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum.", "content": "We have analyzed a step in cysteine biosynthesis in several strains of the pathogenic dimorphic fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. Mycelial cells of all strains tested are prototrophic. However, the yeast phase cells of most stains do not grow in the absence of -SH-containing compounds due to the apparent lack of an active form of sulfite reductase, a crucial enzyme in the cysteine biosynthetic pathway. In contrast, the yeast phase cells of one strain (Downs) have been found to have an active sulfite reductase and can grow in the absence of cysteine if serine is added. A different metabolic block must thus exist in this strain. Sulfite reductase in the yeast form of Downs strain is completely repressed by growth on cysteine while the mycelial form seems to be constitutive. The yeast and mycelial phase extracts were analyzed on polyacrylamide gels. A distinct protein band appeared in extracts prepared from the yeast cells incubated in minimal or serine-containing media, but not in extracts from mycelia or from cysteine-grown yeast cells.", "contents": "Cysteine biosynthesis in a fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. We have analyzed a step in cysteine biosynthesis in several strains of the pathogenic dimorphic fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. Mycelial cells of all strains tested are prototrophic. However, the yeast phase cells of most stains do not grow in the absence of -SH-containing compounds due to the apparent lack of an active form of sulfite reductase, a crucial enzyme in the cysteine biosynthetic pathway. In contrast, the yeast phase cells of one strain (Downs) have been found to have an active sulfite reductase and can grow in the absence of cysteine if serine is added. A different metabolic block must thus exist in this strain. Sulfite reductase in the yeast form of Downs strain is completely repressed by growth on cysteine while the mycelial form seems to be constitutive. The yeast and mycelial phase extracts were analyzed on polyacrylamide gels. A distinct protein band appeared in extracts prepared from the yeast cells incubated in minimal or serine-containing media, but not in extracts from mycelia or from cysteine-grown yeast cells.", "PMID": 441900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5434", "title": "[Microsporum gypseum: endothrix parasitism with medium or large spores in hair of children].", "content": "Five cases of tinea corporis in children by Microsporum gypseum are presented. In four of them an endothrix type of parasitism with arthrospores 4 to 8 microns in diameter was observed. In the other case ectothrix and endothrix types of parasitism were seen in different hairs. Endothrix infection of hairs by species of the genus Microsporum has not been clearly demonstrated until the present. Three isolates were identified as Nannazzia gypsea of the \"+\" mating type.", "contents": "[Microsporum gypseum: endothrix parasitism with medium or large spores in hair of children]. Five cases of tinea corporis in children by Microsporum gypseum are presented. In four of them an endothrix type of parasitism with arthrospores 4 to 8 microns in diameter was observed. In the other case ectothrix and endothrix types of parasitism were seen in different hairs. Endothrix infection of hairs by species of the genus Microsporum has not been clearly demonstrated until the present. Three isolates were identified as Nannazzia gypsea of the \"+\" mating type.", "PMID": 441901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5435", "title": "Evaluation of industrial yeasts for pathogenicity.", "content": "Eleven yeasts representative of species of industrial interest were compared with Candida albicans for their potential pathogenicity for untreated and cortisone-treated mice. Only C. tropicalis produced a progressive infection similar to that produced by C. albicans. Candida lipolytica, Torulopsis spp., and Hansenula polymorpha were not recovered from mice 6 days after inoculation. Kluyveromyces fragilis, C. pseudotropicalis, C. utilis, C. guilliermondii and C. maltosa were recovered from mice but did not produce evidence of infection.", "contents": "Evaluation of industrial yeasts for pathogenicity. Eleven yeasts representative of species of industrial interest were compared with Candida albicans for their potential pathogenicity for untreated and cortisone-treated mice. Only C. tropicalis produced a progressive infection similar to that produced by C. albicans. Candida lipolytica, Torulopsis spp., and Hansenula polymorpha were not recovered from mice 6 days after inoculation. Kluyveromyces fragilis, C. pseudotropicalis, C. utilis, C. guilliermondii and C. maltosa were recovered from mice but did not produce evidence of infection.", "PMID": 441902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5436", "title": "Black-white differences in private pensions: findings from the retirement history study.", "content": "This article compares older black workers and older white workers on coverage under private pension plans, the receipt of pension benefits upon retirement, and the job characteristics associated with both coverage and receipt. Data are from the 1969 and 1975 interviews of the Retirement History Study and describe pre-ERISA conditions among persons in their late fifties to mid-sixties. Black workers were much less likely than white workers to have been covered by a private pension on their longest job. Moreover, among those who were covered, they were less likely to have received benefits. The racial differences appear to result in part from subtantial differences on job characteristics, particularly industry.", "contents": "Black-white differences in private pensions: findings from the retirement history study. This article compares older black workers and older white workers on coverage under private pension plans, the receipt of pension benefits upon retirement, and the job characteristics associated with both coverage and receipt. Data are from the 1969 and 1975 interviews of the Retirement History Study and describe pre-ERISA conditions among persons in their late fifties to mid-sixties. Black workers were much less likely than white workers to have been covered by a private pension on their longest job. Moreover, among those who were covered, they were less likely to have received benefits. The racial differences appear to result in part from subtantial differences on job characteristics, particularly industry.", "PMID": 441903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5437", "title": "The ultrasound of thyroid masses.", "content": "Ultrasonography of the thyroid gland permits differentiation between cystic, solid, and mixed lesions, allowing conservative management of cystic lesions, which constitute 20% of hypofunctioning nodules. The combination of ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration cytology appears to be a great advance in the preoperative diagnosis of nontoxic goiter and permits individualized treatment in as precise a manner as is possible at present.", "contents": "The ultrasound of thyroid masses. Ultrasonography of the thyroid gland permits differentiation between cystic, solid, and mixed lesions, allowing conservative management of cystic lesions, which constitute 20% of hypofunctioning nodules. The combination of ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration cytology appears to be a great advance in the preoperative diagnosis of nontoxic goiter and permits individualized treatment in as precise a manner as is possible at present.", "PMID": 441905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5438", "title": "Angiographic study of cerebral vasospasm following rupture of intracranial aneurysms: Part I. Time of the appearance.", "content": "An investigation of the time of appearance of vasospasm as seen angiographically after the onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage was carried out on 797 cases of intracranial saccular aneurysm in which operations were performed. It has been reported that vasospasm often occurs early after the onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage. With only one subarachnoid hemorrhage, vasospasm occurred within three days after the hemorrhage in only 4.2% of the 120 cases in this study. The appearance of vasospasm was most frequently seen angiographically between ten and 17 days. During this period vasospasm was seen in 49.1% of 116 cases. In those cases with a subarachnoid hemorrhage one to 17 days before the last one, vasospasm within three days after the last hemorrhage was seen in 38.7% of 62 cases. During the period between ten and 17 days after the last hemorrhage, vasospasm was seen in only 20% of 25 cases. The preceding subarachnoid hemorrhage, which had occurred between one and 17 days before the last hemorrhage, seemed to be responsible for the high rate of vasospasm within three days after the last hemorrhage, and the low rate of vasospasm in the period between ten and 17 days after the last hemorrhage.", "contents": "Angiographic study of cerebral vasospasm following rupture of intracranial aneurysms: Part I. Time of the appearance. An investigation of the time of appearance of vasospasm as seen angiographically after the onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage was carried out on 797 cases of intracranial saccular aneurysm in which operations were performed. It has been reported that vasospasm often occurs early after the onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage. With only one subarachnoid hemorrhage, vasospasm occurred within three days after the hemorrhage in only 4.2% of the 120 cases in this study. The appearance of vasospasm was most frequently seen angiographically between ten and 17 days. During this period vasospasm was seen in 49.1% of 116 cases. In those cases with a subarachnoid hemorrhage one to 17 days before the last one, vasospasm within three days after the last hemorrhage was seen in 38.7% of 62 cases. During the period between ten and 17 days after the last hemorrhage, vasospasm was seen in only 20% of 25 cases. The preceding subarachnoid hemorrhage, which had occurred between one and 17 days before the last hemorrhage, seemed to be responsible for the high rate of vasospasm within three days after the last hemorrhage, and the low rate of vasospasm in the period between ten and 17 days after the last hemorrhage.", "PMID": 441910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5439", "title": "Angiography study of cerebral vasospasm following the rupture of intracranial aneurysms: Part II. Relation between the site of aneurysm and the occurrence of the vasospasm.", "content": "The relation between the occurrence of vasospasm and the site of ruptured aneurysm was investigated. Vasospasm tended to occur initially on arteries close to the aneurysm, later extending to other locations. Contralateral spasm was more frequent the closer the site of the aneurysm to the mid-sagittal line. The spasm observed angiographically varies in relation to the site of the aneurysm; the site of the hematoma in the subarachnoid space was supposed to be the cause of such variation.", "contents": "Angiography study of cerebral vasospasm following the rupture of intracranial aneurysms: Part II. Relation between the site of aneurysm and the occurrence of the vasospasm. The relation between the occurrence of vasospasm and the site of ruptured aneurysm was investigated. Vasospasm tended to occur initially on arteries close to the aneurysm, later extending to other locations. Contralateral spasm was more frequent the closer the site of the aneurysm to the mid-sagittal line. The spasm observed angiographically varies in relation to the site of the aneurysm; the site of the hematoma in the subarachnoid space was supposed to be the cause of such variation.", "PMID": 441911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5440", "title": "Vertex epidural hematomas.", "content": "Fourteen cases of vertex epidural hematomas encountered in patients admitted over a 12-year period (1964-1976) at the University of Genoa Neurosurgical Clinic are presented. Special emphasis is put on the large number of cases (nine) without a free interval. Clinical and neuroradiological findings, treatment and results are reported. A clinical classification of this traumatic pathology according to the epidural hematoma classification of Pecker et al is proposed.", "contents": "Vertex epidural hematomas. Fourteen cases of vertex epidural hematomas encountered in patients admitted over a 12-year period (1964-1976) at the University of Genoa Neurosurgical Clinic are presented. Special emphasis is put on the large number of cases (nine) without a free interval. Clinical and neuroradiological findings, treatment and results are reported. A clinical classification of this traumatic pathology according to the epidural hematoma classification of Pecker et al is proposed.", "PMID": 441913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5441", "title": "Trigeminal neuralgia caused by compression of trigeminal nerve by pontine vein.", "content": "A case of trigeminal neuralgia which was apparently caused by compression of the trigeminal nerve by a pontine vein is presented. Complete relief followed the coagulation and dissection of the vein.", "contents": "Trigeminal neuralgia caused by compression of trigeminal nerve by pontine vein. A case of trigeminal neuralgia which was apparently caused by compression of the trigeminal nerve by a pontine vein is presented. Complete relief followed the coagulation and dissection of the vein.", "PMID": 441914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5442", "title": "A telemetric pressure sensor for ventricular shunt systems.", "content": "A fully implantable telemetric differential pressure sensor has been developed which is incorporated with a shunt valve system. It is a unique single diaphragm device that allows in vivo confirmation of zero-point and pressure calibrations. The telemetry is implemented by a resonant circuit in the sensor and a radio frequency detector outside the body, and the in vivo pressure calibration is derived from a pressure-balancing method. The pressure sensor has been implanted with shunts in several patients, and is shown to be valuable both for measurements of intraventricular pressure and for determining proper function of hydrocephalus shunt valves and catheters.", "contents": "A telemetric pressure sensor for ventricular shunt systems. A fully implantable telemetric differential pressure sensor has been developed which is incorporated with a shunt valve system. It is a unique single diaphragm device that allows in vivo confirmation of zero-point and pressure calibrations. The telemetry is implemented by a resonant circuit in the sensor and a radio frequency detector outside the body, and the in vivo pressure calibration is derived from a pressure-balancing method. The pressure sensor has been implanted with shunts in several patients, and is shown to be valuable both for measurements of intraventricular pressure and for determining proper function of hydrocephalus shunt valves and catheters.", "PMID": 441915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5443", "title": "Contamination of Pantopaque by glass.", "content": "Investigation has shown that when ampules containing Pantopaque are opened, a variable amount of fragments of glass may fall into the Pantopaque. When the Pantopaque is injected into the spinal canal these fragments may also be injected. As yet the results of injecting fragments of glass into the spinal subarachnoid space are unknown. The glass can be removed by passing the Pantopaque through a 0.22 micron Millex Filter.", "contents": "Contamination of Pantopaque by glass. Investigation has shown that when ampules containing Pantopaque are opened, a variable amount of fragments of glass may fall into the Pantopaque. When the Pantopaque is injected into the spinal canal these fragments may also be injected. As yet the results of injecting fragments of glass into the spinal subarachnoid space are unknown. The glass can be removed by passing the Pantopaque through a 0.22 micron Millex Filter.", "PMID": 441916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5444", "title": "Experimentally induced cerebral aneurysms in rats: Part III. Pathology.", "content": "Experimentally induced cerebral aneurysms in rats treated with unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery, deoxycorticosterone and salt hypertension, and beta-aminopropionitrile, were studied macroscopically and with light-microscopy. The material consisted of 13 aneurysms located on the anterior cerebral-anterior communicating arterial complex and one on the posterior cerebral artery. The findings were generally in accordance with that of spontaneous lesions in man. The results show the validity of these experimental aneurysms as a model for saccular cerebral aneurysms in man.", "contents": "Experimentally induced cerebral aneurysms in rats: Part III. Pathology. Experimentally induced cerebral aneurysms in rats treated with unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery, deoxycorticosterone and salt hypertension, and beta-aminopropionitrile, were studied macroscopically and with light-microscopy. The material consisted of 13 aneurysms located on the anterior cerebral-anterior communicating arterial complex and one on the posterior cerebral artery. The findings were generally in accordance with that of spontaneous lesions in man. The results show the validity of these experimental aneurysms as a model for saccular cerebral aneurysms in man.", "PMID": 441917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5445", "title": "Trigeminal neurilemmoma presenting as a sphenoid sinus mass.", "content": "Trigeminal neurilemmomas have been known to invade the posterior fossa. Infratemporal fossa, encroach upon the lateral wall of the sphenoid sinus and extend along the three divisions of the trigeminal nerve. Herein described, is a patient with a trigeminal neurilemmoma that extended into the sphenoid sinus, necessitating transphenoidal excision.", "contents": "Trigeminal neurilemmoma presenting as a sphenoid sinus mass. Trigeminal neurilemmomas have been known to invade the posterior fossa. Infratemporal fossa, encroach upon the lateral wall of the sphenoid sinus and extend along the three divisions of the trigeminal nerve. Herein described, is a patient with a trigeminal neurilemmoma that extended into the sphenoid sinus, necessitating transphenoidal excision.", "PMID": 441918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5446", "title": "Intramastoid packing for CSF rhinorrhea following acoustic neurinoma removal.", "content": "A case is presented of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea following operation on an acoustic neurinoma by suboccipital transmeatal approach. The rhinorrhea was cured by sealing the mastoid air cells with muscle pieces. Possible route of CSF rhinorrhea and significance of its treatment are discussed.", "contents": "Intramastoid packing for CSF rhinorrhea following acoustic neurinoma removal. A case is presented of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea following operation on an acoustic neurinoma by suboccipital transmeatal approach. The rhinorrhea was cured by sealing the mastoid air cells with muscle pieces. Possible route of CSF rhinorrhea and significance of its treatment are discussed.", "PMID": 441919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5447", "title": "Prolonged cerebral \"luxury perfusion\" after removal of a convexity meningioma.", "content": "Following total removal of a convexity meningioma, serial computerized tomographic scans disclosed massive hemispheric contrast enhancement compatible with \"luxury perfusion\". Maximum enhancement occurred one month following the operation and resolved two months postoperatively. Luxury perfusion appeared to be associated with slowly resolving cerebral edema.", "contents": "Prolonged cerebral \"luxury perfusion\" after removal of a convexity meningioma. Following total removal of a convexity meningioma, serial computerized tomographic scans disclosed massive hemispheric contrast enhancement compatible with \"luxury perfusion\". Maximum enhancement occurred one month following the operation and resolved two months postoperatively. Luxury perfusion appeared to be associated with slowly resolving cerebral edema.", "PMID": 441920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5448", "title": "Precocious puberty of cerebral origin.", "content": "Eighty-two cases of precocious puberty of cerebral origin were reviewed. All shared as a common factor the distortion, compression, or destruction of diencephalic structures. Attempts were made to parallel basic research findings with those derived from human pathology, hoping to gain further insight into the physiopathology of precocious puberty of cerebral origin.", "contents": "Precocious puberty of cerebral origin. Eighty-two cases of precocious puberty of cerebral origin were reviewed. All shared as a common factor the distortion, compression, or destruction of diencephalic structures. Attempts were made to parallel basic research findings with those derived from human pathology, hoping to gain further insight into the physiopathology of precocious puberty of cerebral origin.", "PMID": 441921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5449", "title": "Effect of a calcium antagonist on experimental constriction of human brain vessels.", "content": "In search for a potent dilatator or deactivator of constriction of cerebrovascular smooth muscle, the effects of a specific antagonist of the calcium influx necessary for the excitation-contraction coupling process was studied on isolated human pial arteries. The arteries were constricted by addition of noradrenaline, 5-hydroxytryptamine, human plasma or blood. All these agents induced a strong contraction which could effectively be reduced by addition of the Ca++-antagonist, nifedipine, to the organ bath. It is suggested that calcium antagonists might be of value in the treatment of cerebrovascular spasm following a subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "contents": "Effect of a calcium antagonist on experimental constriction of human brain vessels. In search for a potent dilatator or deactivator of constriction of cerebrovascular smooth muscle, the effects of a specific antagonist of the calcium influx necessary for the excitation-contraction coupling process was studied on isolated human pial arteries. The arteries were constricted by addition of noradrenaline, 5-hydroxytryptamine, human plasma or blood. All these agents induced a strong contraction which could effectively be reduced by addition of the Ca++-antagonist, nifedipine, to the organ bath. It is suggested that calcium antagonists might be of value in the treatment of cerebrovascular spasm following a subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "PMID": 441922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5450", "title": "Supracerebellar-infratentorial approach to pineal tumors.", "content": "Utilizing the Krause exposure, we have operated on 21 cases of tumors of the pineal region encountering a wide variety of histology with an overall 30% incidence of benign lesions. There has been no significant morbidity in the post-operative management of these patients and one surgical death in a patient with a highly malignant glioma who developed a delayed hemorrhage into the tumor following the operation. In those tumors of recognized malignancy, post-operative radiotherapy has been utilized. In tumors of the germinoma, variety radiation of the entire neural axis is advocated. Since many of the patients have undergone radiotherapy prior to our exposure of the pineal tumor, we have had an opportunity to witness the effects of radiation on this region. In those cases of benign tumors we have found dense adhesions between the tumor and the brain, making definitive surgical treatment of the tumor more difficult.", "contents": "Supracerebellar-infratentorial approach to pineal tumors. Utilizing the Krause exposure, we have operated on 21 cases of tumors of the pineal region encountering a wide variety of histology with an overall 30% incidence of benign lesions. There has been no significant morbidity in the post-operative management of these patients and one surgical death in a patient with a highly malignant glioma who developed a delayed hemorrhage into the tumor following the operation. In those tumors of recognized malignancy, post-operative radiotherapy has been utilized. In tumors of the germinoma, variety radiation of the entire neural axis is advocated. Since many of the patients have undergone radiotherapy prior to our exposure of the pineal tumor, we have had an opportunity to witness the effects of radiation on this region. In those cases of benign tumors we have found dense adhesions between the tumor and the brain, making definitive surgical treatment of the tumor more difficult.", "PMID": 441923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5451", "title": "The Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter as an adjunct to operative management of cerebral arteriovenous malformations.", "content": "The Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter has been used to assist in the removal of five intracranial arteriovenous malformations. The instrument is generally available in most institutions, and is simple and easy to use. It provides a means for locating and confirming the boundaries of a malformation, distinguishing feeding arteries from arterialized draining veins, determining whether the artery is going to the malformation or normal brain, and evaluating the completeness of obliteration.", "contents": "The Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter as an adjunct to operative management of cerebral arteriovenous malformations. The Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter has been used to assist in the removal of five intracranial arteriovenous malformations. The instrument is generally available in most institutions, and is simple and easy to use. It provides a means for locating and confirming the boundaries of a malformation, distinguishing feeding arteries from arterialized draining veins, determining whether the artery is going to the malformation or normal brain, and evaluating the completeness of obliteration.", "PMID": 441924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5452", "title": "Fluid and electrolyte disturbances in patients with intracranial aneurysms.", "content": "Eighty-eight cases with water and electrolyte disturbances, including polyuria, hyper- or hyponatremia, were found in 1,000 cases of surgically treated cerebral aneurysms and 80 nonoperated cases. In this paper, the clinical courses of the 88 cases were studied and an investigation was made of the hypothalamic lesions seen in ten autopsy cases. Water and electrolyte disturbances were most numerous in cases of anterior communicating aneurysms, and the prognosis was poor. Those with hypernatremia had a poor prognosis, with a 42% mortality rate during hospitalization. In contrast, the mortality rate for those with hyponatremia was 15%. Post-mortem studies showed various hemorrhagic and/or ischemic changes in the hypothalamus, with a high incidence of cerebral vasospasm. Massive hemorrhages in the hypothalamus tended to be associated with hypernatremia.", "contents": "Fluid and electrolyte disturbances in patients with intracranial aneurysms. Eighty-eight cases with water and electrolyte disturbances, including polyuria, hyper- or hyponatremia, were found in 1,000 cases of surgically treated cerebral aneurysms and 80 nonoperated cases. In this paper, the clinical courses of the 88 cases were studied and an investigation was made of the hypothalamic lesions seen in ten autopsy cases. Water and electrolyte disturbances were most numerous in cases of anterior communicating aneurysms, and the prognosis was poor. Those with hypernatremia had a poor prognosis, with a 42% mortality rate during hospitalization. In contrast, the mortality rate for those with hyponatremia was 15%. Post-mortem studies showed various hemorrhagic and/or ischemic changes in the hypothalamus, with a high incidence of cerebral vasospasm. Massive hemorrhages in the hypothalamus tended to be associated with hypernatremia.", "PMID": 441925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5453", "title": "Hypertension following carotid endarterectomy.", "content": "Seventy-nine patients undergoing staged bilateral carotid endarterectomy were studied to determine the relationship of perioperative hypertension to postoperative neurologic deficits. Six of the eight neurologic deficits following 158 endarterectomies (5%) occurred after the first operation, all being temporary. Comparison of the mean blood pressures in patients with and without postoperative strokes revealed no statistically significant differences. Patients on antihypertensive medications were at a significantly higher risk of developing postoperative strokes. A trend towards higher blood pressure was noted following the second endarterectomy, particularly when they were staged more than 60 days apart. Based on our findings, a cautious approach is warranted in the treatment of postendarterectomy hypertension.", "contents": "Hypertension following carotid endarterectomy. Seventy-nine patients undergoing staged bilateral carotid endarterectomy were studied to determine the relationship of perioperative hypertension to postoperative neurologic deficits. Six of the eight neurologic deficits following 158 endarterectomies (5%) occurred after the first operation, all being temporary. Comparison of the mean blood pressures in patients with and without postoperative strokes revealed no statistically significant differences. Patients on antihypertensive medications were at a significantly higher risk of developing postoperative strokes. A trend towards higher blood pressure was noted following the second endarterectomy, particularly when they were staged more than 60 days apart. Based on our findings, a cautious approach is warranted in the treatment of postendarterectomy hypertension.", "PMID": 441926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5454", "title": "Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: localization of dural fistulae using metrizamide, hypocycloidal tomography and computed tomography.", "content": "Demonstration of the exact site of the dural fistulae in cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea is difficult. This paper presents a technique for accurate localization of these fistulae, using metrizamide cisternography combined with both hypocycloidal tomography and computed tomography.", "contents": "Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: localization of dural fistulae using metrizamide, hypocycloidal tomography and computed tomography. Demonstration of the exact site of the dural fistulae in cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea is difficult. This paper presents a technique for accurate localization of these fistulae, using metrizamide cisternography combined with both hypocycloidal tomography and computed tomography.", "PMID": 441928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5455", "title": "\"True\" posterior communicating artery aneurysm.", "content": "A \"true\" posterior communicating artery aneurysm was noted in our series of 490 intracranial aneurysms among 419 patients. The possible surgical significance of this type of aneurysm is discussed.", "contents": "\"True\" posterior communicating artery aneurysm. A \"true\" posterior communicating artery aneurysm was noted in our series of 490 intracranial aneurysms among 419 patients. The possible surgical significance of this type of aneurysm is discussed.", "PMID": 441929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5456", "title": "Intra-operative computerized axial tomography.", "content": "A case is presented in which the entire surgical procedure for a recurrent brain glioma was carried out on the computerized axial tomography (CAT) table. Repeated intra-operative CAT scans provided vital information as to the extent of the tumor. Using this method there was no remnant of tumor tissue detectable on the CAT scan at the end of the operation.", "contents": "Intra-operative computerized axial tomography. A case is presented in which the entire surgical procedure for a recurrent brain glioma was carried out on the computerized axial tomography (CAT) table. Repeated intra-operative CAT scans provided vital information as to the extent of the tumor. Using this method there was no remnant of tumor tissue detectable on the CAT scan at the end of the operation.", "PMID": 441930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5457", "title": "Cerebral venous angiomas.", "content": "The literature on venous angiomas is generally confusing, although recent reports confirm the existence of this entity. A survey of the published cases, with addition of two of our own, is presented in the current study. Characteristic histological and angiographic features are described. The value of radioisotope techniques is emphasized with regard to the modifications which these angiomas cause in cerebral circulation.", "contents": "Cerebral venous angiomas. The literature on venous angiomas is generally confusing, although recent reports confirm the existence of this entity. A survey of the published cases, with addition of two of our own, is presented in the current study. Characteristic histological and angiographic features are described. The value of radioisotope techniques is emphasized with regard to the modifications which these angiomas cause in cerebral circulation.", "PMID": 441931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5458", "title": "Epicranial plexiform neurofibroma.", "content": "Epicranial plexiform neurofibroma is a rare presentation of neurofibromatosis. Two such cases are presented in which epicranial tumors constituted isolated manifestations of the disease except for skin pigmentation. Tumor development began at two and three months of age respectively; one case showed a calvarian bony defect associated with the tumor.", "contents": "Epicranial plexiform neurofibroma. Epicranial plexiform neurofibroma is a rare presentation of neurofibromatosis. Two such cases are presented in which epicranial tumors constituted isolated manifestations of the disease except for skin pigmentation. Tumor development began at two and three months of age respectively; one case showed a calvarian bony defect associated with the tumor.", "PMID": 441932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5459", "title": "Cerebral arteriovenous malformation with intracranial hypertension.", "content": "A parasagittal arterio-venous malformation with symptoms and signs of intracranial hypertension, is reported. The CT scan was considered normal, but following contrast enhancement the responsible lesion was demonstrated. The pertinent literature is briefly reviewed and possible pathogenetic mechanisms for the intracranial hypertension are discussed.", "contents": "Cerebral arteriovenous malformation with intracranial hypertension. A parasagittal arterio-venous malformation with symptoms and signs of intracranial hypertension, is reported. The CT scan was considered normal, but following contrast enhancement the responsible lesion was demonstrated. The pertinent literature is briefly reviewed and possible pathogenetic mechanisms for the intracranial hypertension are discussed.", "PMID": 441933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5460", "title": "75Se-sodium selenite as a diagnostic aid in the assessment of peripheral pulmonary opacities.", "content": "To establish or exclude the diagnosis of bronchial carcinoma a series of 43 patients with peripheral pulmonary opacities was studied by lung scanning after intravenous injection of 75Se-sodium selenite. A diagnosis was ultimately obtained in all patients. The incidence of both false-positive and false-negative results was high. Selenite was taken up by a range of non-neoplastic processes including inflammatory lesions. The value of the procedure in distinguishing bronchial carcinoma from non-neoplastic conditions of the lung that radiographically mimic carcinoma was not confirmed.", "contents": "75Se-sodium selenite as a diagnostic aid in the assessment of peripheral pulmonary opacities. To establish or exclude the diagnosis of bronchial carcinoma a series of 43 patients with peripheral pulmonary opacities was studied by lung scanning after intravenous injection of 75Se-sodium selenite. A diagnosis was ultimately obtained in all patients. The incidence of both false-positive and false-negative results was high. Selenite was taken up by a range of non-neoplastic processes including inflammatory lesions. The value of the procedure in distinguishing bronchial carcinoma from non-neoplastic conditions of the lung that radiographically mimic carcinoma was not confirmed.", "PMID": 441987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5461", "title": "Pleural effusion: laboratory tests in 300 cases.", "content": "The cause of pleural effusion was studied in 300 consecutive patients by clinical examination and laboratory tests. The three most common causes were found to be cancer 117 cases (metastatic 65, bronchogenic 34, mesothelioma 10, lymphoma 7, other 1); tuberculous infection 53; and bacterial infection 38. The cause was not found in 62 patients. Cancer diagnosis was established by cytological examination of pleural fluid (63), closed pleural biopsy (37), and open pleural biopsy (11). Tuberculosis was diagnosed by culture of pleural fluid (12), closed pleural biopsy (38), and open pleural biopsy (3). In cases of empyema 12 Gram-positive and two Gram-negative cocci and two anaerobes were identified. The various causes and the usefulness of the different investigative procedures are discussed, and the data evaluated in the light of current knowledge about mechanisms of transfer through the pleural space.", "contents": "Pleural effusion: laboratory tests in 300 cases. The cause of pleural effusion was studied in 300 consecutive patients by clinical examination and laboratory tests. The three most common causes were found to be cancer 117 cases (metastatic 65, bronchogenic 34, mesothelioma 10, lymphoma 7, other 1); tuberculous infection 53; and bacterial infection 38. The cause was not found in 62 patients. Cancer diagnosis was established by cytological examination of pleural fluid (63), closed pleural biopsy (37), and open pleural biopsy (11). Tuberculosis was diagnosed by culture of pleural fluid (12), closed pleural biopsy (38), and open pleural biopsy (3). In cases of empyema 12 Gram-positive and two Gram-negative cocci and two anaerobes were identified. The various causes and the usefulness of the different investigative procedures are discussed, and the data evaluated in the light of current knowledge about mechanisms of transfer through the pleural space.", "PMID": 441988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5462", "title": "Dilatation of the azygos vein simulating a mediastinal tumour.", "content": "A mediastinal tumour was simulated by gross dilatation of the azygos vein resulting from compression by enlarged hilar lymph nodes at the point where it crossed the right main bronchus to enter the superior vena cava. This cause of dilatation of the azygos vein has not previously been reported. Published reports are reviewed and attention drawn to the large proportion of patients (11/19) with this condition who had needless thoracotomies. The possibility of making a diagnosis by means of clinical observation and simple radiological techniques and thus avoiding surgical intervention is discussed.", "contents": "Dilatation of the azygos vein simulating a mediastinal tumour. A mediastinal tumour was simulated by gross dilatation of the azygos vein resulting from compression by enlarged hilar lymph nodes at the point where it crossed the right main bronchus to enter the superior vena cava. This cause of dilatation of the azygos vein has not previously been reported. Published reports are reviewed and attention drawn to the large proportion of patients (11/19) with this condition who had needless thoracotomies. The possibility of making a diagnosis by means of clinical observation and simple radiological techniques and thus avoiding surgical intervention is discussed.", "PMID": 441989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5463", "title": "Occupational asthma in an electronics factory.", "content": "Workers in a modern electronics factory were surveyed by questionnaire and lung function testing to see if there was evidence of widespread work-related respiratory symptoms. Of the responding workers exposed to solder flux fumes on the shop floor, 22% had work-related breathlessness or wheeze or both. Exposed workers had a lower FEV1 and FVC than unexposed workers. Work-related rhinitis was also present in 22% of exposed workers. The most likely cause for these results is sensitivity to colophony fumes, released from solder flux during soldering. Levels of solder flux fume were below the threshold limit value in this factory during the survey.", "contents": "Occupational asthma in an electronics factory. Workers in a modern electronics factory were surveyed by questionnaire and lung function testing to see if there was evidence of widespread work-related respiratory symptoms. Of the responding workers exposed to solder flux fumes on the shop floor, 22% had work-related breathlessness or wheeze or both. Exposed workers had a lower FEV1 and FVC than unexposed workers. Work-related rhinitis was also present in 22% of exposed workers. The most likely cause for these results is sensitivity to colophony fumes, released from solder flux during soldering. Levels of solder flux fume were below the threshold limit value in this factory during the survey.", "PMID": 441994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5464", "title": "Work-related respiratory disease in employees leaving an electronics factory.", "content": "Examination of the records of employees leaving an electronics factory over three-and-a-half years showed that a significantly greater proportion left the shop floor (where soldering took place) because of ill health than left the stores and office areas. This difference was largely due to work-related respiratory disease in those whose job was soldering. Shop floor workers leaving for health reasons also had increased sickness certification due to respiratory illness compared to stores and office workers. These findings suggest that work-related respiratory illness is a significant cause of morbidity and loss of employment in solderers working at the factory and that this has been a longstanding problem with its onset before the first recorded cases of occupational asthma caused by solder flux containing colophony.", "contents": "Work-related respiratory disease in employees leaving an electronics factory. Examination of the records of employees leaving an electronics factory over three-and-a-half years showed that a significantly greater proportion left the shop floor (where soldering took place) because of ill health than left the stores and office areas. This difference was largely due to work-related respiratory disease in those whose job was soldering. Shop floor workers leaving for health reasons also had increased sickness certification due to respiratory illness compared to stores and office workers. These findings suggest that work-related respiratory illness is a significant cause of morbidity and loss of employment in solderers working at the factory and that this has been a longstanding problem with its onset before the first recorded cases of occupational asthma caused by solder flux containing colophony.", "PMID": 441996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5465", "title": "Intrathoracic manifestations in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.", "content": "A total of 16 of 86 patients (19%) with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were found to have intrathoracic disease in this retrospective study. Paratracheal, mediastinal, and hilar lymphadenopathy was the commonest manifestation followed by pulmonary lesions and pleural effusion. The lymphoma was at an advanced clinical stage in all the patients with intrathoracic disease. About one-third of the intrathoracic lesions first developed at the time of relapse after successful initial therapy. There was a better response to therapy when intrathoracic disease was part of the initial presentation than when it was a manifestation of relapse. If it did not respond to therapy it was always indicative of a poor prognosis.", "contents": "Intrathoracic manifestations in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. A total of 16 of 86 patients (19%) with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were found to have intrathoracic disease in this retrospective study. Paratracheal, mediastinal, and hilar lymphadenopathy was the commonest manifestation followed by pulmonary lesions and pleural effusion. The lymphoma was at an advanced clinical stage in all the patients with intrathoracic disease. About one-third of the intrathoracic lesions first developed at the time of relapse after successful initial therapy. There was a better response to therapy when intrathoracic disease was part of the initial presentation than when it was a manifestation of relapse. If it did not respond to therapy it was always indicative of a poor prognosis.", "PMID": 441997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5466", "title": "Resectional surgery in the treatment of primary carcinoma of the lung with mediastinal lymph node metastases.", "content": "Between 1966 and 1970 we reviewed 46 consecutive patients undergoing resection for primary carcinoma of the lung, in whom mediastinal lymph node metastases were found at operation. There was one operative death. Five of the remaining 45 patients survived five years--one of 10 cases of large cell carcinoma, one of 19 cases of adenocarcinoma, and three of 12 cases of epidermoid carcinoma. We believe that mediastinal lymph node metastases are not per se a contraindication to resection of epidermoid carcinoma of the lung.", "contents": "Resectional surgery in the treatment of primary carcinoma of the lung with mediastinal lymph node metastases. Between 1966 and 1970 we reviewed 46 consecutive patients undergoing resection for primary carcinoma of the lung, in whom mediastinal lymph node metastases were found at operation. There was one operative death. Five of the remaining 45 patients survived five years--one of 10 cases of large cell carcinoma, one of 19 cases of adenocarcinoma, and three of 12 cases of epidermoid carcinoma. We believe that mediastinal lymph node metastases are not per se a contraindication to resection of epidermoid carcinoma of the lung.", "PMID": 441998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5467", "title": "\"Acute\" asthma in adults.", "content": "Forty-four adult patients with acute severe asthma were studied on admission to a general hospital to determine the mode of presentation and clinical severity of the acute illness. Most patients described poorly controlled wheezing for a mean period of five weeks before a more rapid deterioration, usually over 24 hours, caused them to seek medical attention. The clinical severity of the acute attach was not related to the duration of acute wheezing before admission to hospital. Recovery, studied in 11 of the patients, was slow, and most had reached only 70% of their predicted spirometric values after seven days' treatment in hospital. The rate of recovery was not influenced by the antecedent history of acute wheezing. Very sudden deterioration from a background of good control appears to be uncommon in adults with asthma who present to hospital as emergencies, and it is likely that improvement in the standard of routine management of asthmatics at home would prevent many such admissions.", "contents": "\"Acute\" asthma in adults. Forty-four adult patients with acute severe asthma were studied on admission to a general hospital to determine the mode of presentation and clinical severity of the acute illness. Most patients described poorly controlled wheezing for a mean period of five weeks before a more rapid deterioration, usually over 24 hours, caused them to seek medical attention. The clinical severity of the acute attach was not related to the duration of acute wheezing before admission to hospital. Recovery, studied in 11 of the patients, was slow, and most had reached only 70% of their predicted spirometric values after seven days' treatment in hospital. The rate of recovery was not influenced by the antecedent history of acute wheezing. Very sudden deterioration from a background of good control appears to be uncommon in adults with asthma who present to hospital as emergencies, and it is likely that improvement in the standard of routine management of asthmatics at home would prevent many such admissions.", "PMID": 441999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5468", "title": "Sudden death in asthma.", "content": "Two deaths after sudden severe asthma attacks in young people are reported from a clinic set up to identify and manage \"at risk\" patients. These deaths occurred despite frequent visits at which recommendations made by previous studies were implemented. The risk factors and management of such episodes have been reviewed. Precautions taken proved inadequate due to the severe, abrupt nature of the attacks, failure of the patients' immediate treatment, and delay in reaching hospital. Consideration should be given to the self-administration of subcutaneous adrenaline or specific beta-agonists, the provision of a detailed medical card, and free access to the nearest hospital in such cases.", "contents": "Sudden death in asthma. Two deaths after sudden severe asthma attacks in young people are reported from a clinic set up to identify and manage \"at risk\" patients. These deaths occurred despite frequent visits at which recommendations made by previous studies were implemented. The risk factors and management of such episodes have been reviewed. Precautions taken proved inadequate due to the severe, abrupt nature of the attacks, failure of the patients' immediate treatment, and delay in reaching hospital. Consideration should be given to the self-administration of subcutaneous adrenaline or specific beta-agonists, the provision of a detailed medical card, and free access to the nearest hospital in such cases.", "PMID": 442000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5469", "title": "Lung clearance of soluble radioaerosols of different molecular weights in systemic sclerosis.", "content": "Clearance rates of soluble radioaerosols of sodium pertechnetate (99mTcO4; mol wt 163) and diethylenetriaminepenta-acetate (99mTc-DTPA; mol wt 492) were determined in seven normal subjects and ten patients with systemic sclerosis affecting the lungs. Twenty millicuries (mCi) each of 99mTcO4 and 99mTc-DTPA in 5 ml saline were aerosolised and inhaled using a disposable \"Blount\" nebuliser on two different days. Two regions of interest over each posterior lung field were monitored with scintillation camera, and data were stored on magnetic tape using a Hewlett Packard Data Analyser. Decreasing levels of radioactivity were plotted semilogarithmically and half-time (T 1 1/2) removal rates were calculated. The T 1 1/2) values in normal subjects did not differ significantly from T 142 values of the patients with TcO4. However, the removal rates of the higher molecular weight solute were significantly faster from lower lung zones in patients with systemic sclerosis than in the normal subjects. The faster absorption of DTPA from lower lung zones of the patients could be due to regional abnormalities of alveolar epithelium at the lung bases, presumably as a result of greater retractive forces secondary to fibrosis.", "contents": "Lung clearance of soluble radioaerosols of different molecular weights in systemic sclerosis. Clearance rates of soluble radioaerosols of sodium pertechnetate (99mTcO4; mol wt 163) and diethylenetriaminepenta-acetate (99mTc-DTPA; mol wt 492) were determined in seven normal subjects and ten patients with systemic sclerosis affecting the lungs. Twenty millicuries (mCi) each of 99mTcO4 and 99mTc-DTPA in 5 ml saline were aerosolised and inhaled using a disposable \"Blount\" nebuliser on two different days. Two regions of interest over each posterior lung field were monitored with scintillation camera, and data were stored on magnetic tape using a Hewlett Packard Data Analyser. Decreasing levels of radioactivity were plotted semilogarithmically and half-time (T 1 1/2) removal rates were calculated. The T 1 1/2) values in normal subjects did not differ significantly from T 142 values of the patients with TcO4. However, the removal rates of the higher molecular weight solute were significantly faster from lower lung zones in patients with systemic sclerosis than in the normal subjects. The faster absorption of DTPA from lower lung zones of the patients could be due to regional abnormalities of alveolar epithelium at the lung bases, presumably as a result of greater retractive forces secondary to fibrosis.", "PMID": 442001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5470", "title": "Cell-mediated immunity in operable bronchial carcinoma: the effect of injecting irradiated autologous tumour cells and BCG.", "content": "In 52 patients undergoing tests of cell-mediated immunity before surgical resection of bronchial carcinoma a positive tuberculin test result was found in 71% compared with 68% of age- and sex-matched controls. Sensitisation to DNCB occurred in 52% of 37 patients but in 78% of controls. There was depression of lymphocyte transformation by PPD in 19 patients compared with controls (P=0.001), but there was no difference in lymphocyte transformation by PHA or pokeweed mitogen between 34 patients and controls. In a pilot study patients were randomly allocated to autograft (eight) or non-autograft (seven) groups. The autograft group were given an intradermal injection of a suspension of irradiated autologous tumour-cells mixed with intradermal BCG on the day of operation. Tests of cell-mediated immunity were repeated two weeks after operation. Five patients in each group received a course of radiotherapy to the mediastinum three weeks after operation. There was a rise in cutaneous tuberculin reactivity (P=0.08) and total leucocyte count (P=0.09) in the autograft group postoperatively with a fall in total lymphocyte and T lymphocyte counts in the non-autograft group (P less 0.05). These differences, however, were not followed by any difference in the frequency of tumour recurrence or the survival rate two years after operation. The results show that the immunological surveillance mechanism is impaired even in patients with early bronchial carcinoma and that it is possible to overcome postoperative immunological depression with specific immunotherapy combined with BCG. This treatment did not produce any clinical advantage in this small number of patients and the skin lesions caused the patients considerable discomfort.", "contents": "Cell-mediated immunity in operable bronchial carcinoma: the effect of injecting irradiated autologous tumour cells and BCG. In 52 patients undergoing tests of cell-mediated immunity before surgical resection of bronchial carcinoma a positive tuberculin test result was found in 71% compared with 68% of age- and sex-matched controls. Sensitisation to DNCB occurred in 52% of 37 patients but in 78% of controls. There was depression of lymphocyte transformation by PPD in 19 patients compared with controls (P=0.001), but there was no difference in lymphocyte transformation by PHA or pokeweed mitogen between 34 patients and controls. In a pilot study patients were randomly allocated to autograft (eight) or non-autograft (seven) groups. The autograft group were given an intradermal injection of a suspension of irradiated autologous tumour-cells mixed with intradermal BCG on the day of operation. Tests of cell-mediated immunity were repeated two weeks after operation. Five patients in each group received a course of radiotherapy to the mediastinum three weeks after operation. There was a rise in cutaneous tuberculin reactivity (P=0.08) and total leucocyte count (P=0.09) in the autograft group postoperatively with a fall in total lymphocyte and T lymphocyte counts in the non-autograft group (P less 0.05). These differences, however, were not followed by any difference in the frequency of tumour recurrence or the survival rate two years after operation. The results show that the immunological surveillance mechanism is impaired even in patients with early bronchial carcinoma and that it is possible to overcome postoperative immunological depression with specific immunotherapy combined with BCG. This treatment did not produce any clinical advantage in this small number of patients and the skin lesions caused the patients considerable discomfort.", "PMID": 442002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5471", "title": "Pectus excavatum and cardiac dysfunction: a case report with pre- and post-operative haemodynamic studies.", "content": "A 48-year-old man with severe pectus excavatum presented with incapacitating supraventricular tachycardia, paroxysmal in nature and invariably provoked by exercise. During mild supine leg exercise on a bicycle ergometer an abnormal increase in right heart pressures, particularly in the right atrium, was observed, followed immediately by supraventricular tachycardia. The latter was also shown during upright exercise on a treadmill. Operative correction of the deformity led to complete relief from the dysrhythmia and a normal haemodynamic response on exercise. The pre- and post-operative studies lend support to the conclusion that the sternal depression was the most likely cause of the cardiac abnormality.", "contents": "Pectus excavatum and cardiac dysfunction: a case report with pre- and post-operative haemodynamic studies. A 48-year-old man with severe pectus excavatum presented with incapacitating supraventricular tachycardia, paroxysmal in nature and invariably provoked by exercise. During mild supine leg exercise on a bicycle ergometer an abnormal increase in right heart pressures, particularly in the right atrium, was observed, followed immediately by supraventricular tachycardia. The latter was also shown during upright exercise on a treadmill. Operative correction of the deformity led to complete relief from the dysrhythmia and a normal haemodynamic response on exercise. The pre- and post-operative studies lend support to the conclusion that the sternal depression was the most likely cause of the cardiac abnormality.", "PMID": 442003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5472", "title": "Ultrastructural artefacts in biopsied normal myocardium and their relevance to myocardial biopsy in man.", "content": "Biopsy specimens, as a source of myocardial tissue, are being used increasingly in the appraisal of various myocardial diseases. A study of myocardial tissue, biopsied and processed in various ways, and obtained from normal healthy experimental animals, showed that a variety of artefacts may be found. These artefacts develop in reactive, beating myocardium but not in non-reactive hearts. The artefacts are in many instances similar to, or mimic, changes previously described as pathological in origin. This is most unsatisfactory, and if valid pathological appraisals of myocardial biopsies are to be made, a technique allowing the recovery of tissue, free of biopsy artefact, is required. Such a technique is described.", "contents": "Ultrastructural artefacts in biopsied normal myocardium and their relevance to myocardial biopsy in man. Biopsy specimens, as a source of myocardial tissue, are being used increasingly in the appraisal of various myocardial diseases. A study of myocardial tissue, biopsied and processed in various ways, and obtained from normal healthy experimental animals, showed that a variety of artefacts may be found. These artefacts develop in reactive, beating myocardium but not in non-reactive hearts. The artefacts are in many instances similar to, or mimic, changes previously described as pathological in origin. This is most unsatisfactory, and if valid pathological appraisals of myocardial biopsies are to be made, a technique allowing the recovery of tissue, free of biopsy artefact, is required. Such a technique is described.", "PMID": 442004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5473", "title": "[Some results obtained in artificial insemination on a large rabbit farm (author's transl)].", "content": "In commercial rabbit-farming, activities associated with mating take up a great deal of the working hours required. Efforts were made to help to obtain optimum results in rabbit-farming by carrying out artificial insemination. The conception rates following insemination of does which are not prepared to mate naturally, are too low. After preliminary treatment of these animals with 20 I.U. of pregnant mare serum forty-eight hours prior to insemination, the results obtained were more satisfactory. It is concluded that artificial insemination in rabbit farming does not present any technical problems and that satisfactory results should be obtainable on healthy farms.", "contents": "[Some results obtained in artificial insemination on a large rabbit farm (author's transl)]. In commercial rabbit-farming, activities associated with mating take up a great deal of the working hours required. Efforts were made to help to obtain optimum results in rabbit-farming by carrying out artificial insemination. The conception rates following insemination of does which are not prepared to mate naturally, are too low. After preliminary treatment of these animals with 20 I.U. of pregnant mare serum forty-eight hours prior to insemination, the results obtained were more satisfactory. It is concluded that artificial insemination in rabbit farming does not present any technical problems and that satisfactory results should be obtainable on healthy farms.", "PMID": 442049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5474", "title": "[The effect of Mycoplasma synoviae infection on the state of health and results of fattening of broiler chickens compared with the effects of various virus infections. A field study (author's transl)].", "content": "Field studies in 160 flocks of broiler chickens in two areas in the Netherlands showed that Mycoplasma synoviae infection, the presence of which was detected by serological testing in 17.5 per cent, had only a slight adverse effect on the results of fattening. Mycoplasma synoviae as well as IB infections were found to be more common in flocks affected with colibacillosis and/or in which higher proportions of birds were condemned because of polyserositis. Infectious bursal disease, IB and CELO virus infections are very common particularly in the southern areas of the Netherlands, and have a significantly adverse effect on the results of fattening. The findings suggest that vaccination against IB and Gumboro disease often fails in flocks in areas showing a high incidence of infection.", "contents": "[The effect of Mycoplasma synoviae infection on the state of health and results of fattening of broiler chickens compared with the effects of various virus infections. A field study (author's transl)]. Field studies in 160 flocks of broiler chickens in two areas in the Netherlands showed that Mycoplasma synoviae infection, the presence of which was detected by serological testing in 17.5 per cent, had only a slight adverse effect on the results of fattening. Mycoplasma synoviae as well as IB infections were found to be more common in flocks affected with colibacillosis and/or in which higher proportions of birds were condemned because of polyserositis. Infectious bursal disease, IB and CELO virus infections are very common particularly in the southern areas of the Netherlands, and have a significantly adverse effect on the results of fattening. The findings suggest that vaccination against IB and Gumboro disease often fails in flocks in areas showing a high incidence of infection.", "PMID": 442052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5475", "title": "Recovery of the heart after normothermic ischemia. Part I: Ultrastructural findings during postischemic reperfusion.", "content": "The influence of controlled ischemia on myocardial ultrastructure was investigated in isolated, metabolically supported canine hearts. Recovery of functionally normal tissue as indicated by the reversibility of morphological alterations was observed up to 60 minutes of anoxia. It was shown that prolonged reperfusion of the empty beating heart supports the recovery of normal cellular ultrastructure. Severe ischemic damage of mitochondria due to ischemia of 60 minutes was almost completely reversible after a reperfusion period of 50 minutes.", "contents": "Recovery of the heart after normothermic ischemia. Part I: Ultrastructural findings during postischemic reperfusion. The influence of controlled ischemia on myocardial ultrastructure was investigated in isolated, metabolically supported canine hearts. Recovery of functionally normal tissue as indicated by the reversibility of morphological alterations was observed up to 60 minutes of anoxia. It was shown that prolonged reperfusion of the empty beating heart supports the recovery of normal cellular ultrastructure. Severe ischemic damage of mitochondria due to ischemia of 60 minutes was almost completely reversible after a reperfusion period of 50 minutes.", "PMID": 442056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5476", "title": "Penetrating wounds of the heart and pericardium.", "content": "Fifty-seven patients with penetrating cardiac or pericardial trauma were treated at the Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, University of Stellenbosch at the Tygerberg Hospital during a 6 1/2 year period from June 1971 to January 1978. Eleven patients were treated by aspiration alone because tamponade was mild, or because they were seen between 24 hours and 3 weeks after injury. Six patients underwent late elective surgery. Cardiopulmonary bypass had to be employed in four patients to correct intracardiac lesions. All other patients underwent emergency operations 8 minutes to 2 hours after admission to hospital. The hospital mortality was 4 of 57 patients (7%), lower than rates reported in other series. Some selected cases will be described more fully and our present plan of management is outlined.", "contents": "Penetrating wounds of the heart and pericardium. Fifty-seven patients with penetrating cardiac or pericardial trauma were treated at the Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, University of Stellenbosch at the Tygerberg Hospital during a 6 1/2 year period from June 1971 to January 1978. Eleven patients were treated by aspiration alone because tamponade was mild, or because they were seen between 24 hours and 3 weeks after injury. Six patients underwent late elective surgery. Cardiopulmonary bypass had to be employed in four patients to correct intracardiac lesions. All other patients underwent emergency operations 8 minutes to 2 hours after admission to hospital. The hospital mortality was 4 of 57 patients (7%), lower than rates reported in other series. Some selected cases will be described more fully and our present plan of management is outlined.", "PMID": 442057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5477", "title": "Surgical treatment of aneurysms of the ascending aorta: early experience with the sinus-shaped composite dacron graft.", "content": "This paper reviews the early and late results of 36 operations for aneurysms of the ascending aorta. Cystic medial necrosis was the predominant cause of aneurysm formation (56%), followed by arteriosclerosis (25%), previous aortotomy (11%) and syphilitic aortitis (8%). Dissection was encountered in 42%. The ascending aorta was replaced by a tubular Darcron graft in 26 patients, whereas 10 underwent aneurysmorrhaphy. Additional procedures were aortic valve replacement (27), resuspension of the aortic commissures (4) and coronary ostial implantation into sinus-shaped composite Dacron graft (4). Hospital mortality (0--18 days) was 8/36 patients (22%), but higher with cystic medial necrosis (30%), dissection (33%), duration of ECC greater than 180 minutes (38%), graft replacement (44%), emergency operation (45%) and heart volume greater than 900 ml/m2 BSA (50%). Late mortality (average 3 years) was 29%, but higher with cystic medial necrosis (33%), following aortic valve replacement (36%) and during anticoagulation (47%). Late cumulative survival (average 3 years) was 47% for the entire series, but only 33% in the presence of cystic medial necrosis. The poor overall prognosis for patients with cystic medial degeneration was closely related to a high incidence of fatal anastomotic complications and late deaths from cerebral haemorrhage during anticoagulation. Radical exclusion of the diseased aortic wall and omission of long-term anticoagulation are therefore desirable in order to lower the mortality rate. Surgery concerns the aneurysm per se, the aortic incompetence and the coronary ostia. The sinus-shaped composite graft with a Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley prosthesis at its base appears to be a promising device for such a procedure, which should be performed electively, following early diagnosis in order to prevent dissection and emergency operations.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of aneurysms of the ascending aorta: early experience with the sinus-shaped composite dacron graft. This paper reviews the early and late results of 36 operations for aneurysms of the ascending aorta. Cystic medial necrosis was the predominant cause of aneurysm formation (56%), followed by arteriosclerosis (25%), previous aortotomy (11%) and syphilitic aortitis (8%). Dissection was encountered in 42%. The ascending aorta was replaced by a tubular Darcron graft in 26 patients, whereas 10 underwent aneurysmorrhaphy. Additional procedures were aortic valve replacement (27), resuspension of the aortic commissures (4) and coronary ostial implantation into sinus-shaped composite Dacron graft (4). Hospital mortality (0--18 days) was 8/36 patients (22%), but higher with cystic medial necrosis (30%), dissection (33%), duration of ECC greater than 180 minutes (38%), graft replacement (44%), emergency operation (45%) and heart volume greater than 900 ml/m2 BSA (50%). Late mortality (average 3 years) was 29%, but higher with cystic medial necrosis (33%), following aortic valve replacement (36%) and during anticoagulation (47%). Late cumulative survival (average 3 years) was 47% for the entire series, but only 33% in the presence of cystic medial necrosis. The poor overall prognosis for patients with cystic medial degeneration was closely related to a high incidence of fatal anastomotic complications and late deaths from cerebral haemorrhage during anticoagulation. Radical exclusion of the diseased aortic wall and omission of long-term anticoagulation are therefore desirable in order to lower the mortality rate. Surgery concerns the aneurysm per se, the aortic incompetence and the coronary ostia. The sinus-shaped composite graft with a Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley prosthesis at its base appears to be a promising device for such a procedure, which should be performed electively, following early diagnosis in order to prevent dissection and emergency operations.", "PMID": 442058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5478", "title": "Long term performance of 580 homograft and autograft valves used for aortic valve replacement.", "content": "Homograft valves have been used at the National Heart Hospital since 1964, and autograft valves since 1967. The homografts were treated either by freeze drying, by flash freezing, or by tissue maintenance in a nutrient medium (fresh). In order to compare these three groups of homograft valves with the autograft valves some long term assessment of valve function was required. In the whole group of 580 valves there have been 40 late deaths, which is a probability of only 7% over 6 to 14 years. Homografts and autografts are therefore excellent valves in terms of patient survival. Thromboembolism, haemolysis and bleeding may be regarded as complications which do not occur with homograft and autograft valves. There was one thrombogenic episode in this group, an incidence of one per 11,994 patient years and a probability of only 0.000083 patient years. Potentially fatal hazards of late complications with homoor autograft valves decrease with time and at this time is a negligible factor. The similarity in pattern of onset of late infections and degeneration probably reflects the greater susceptibility to infection of a degenerating valve. All three groups of homografts are very similar and differ only from the excellent performance of the autograft valves.", "contents": "Long term performance of 580 homograft and autograft valves used for aortic valve replacement. Homograft valves have been used at the National Heart Hospital since 1964, and autograft valves since 1967. The homografts were treated either by freeze drying, by flash freezing, or by tissue maintenance in a nutrient medium (fresh). In order to compare these three groups of homograft valves with the autograft valves some long term assessment of valve function was required. In the whole group of 580 valves there have been 40 late deaths, which is a probability of only 7% over 6 to 14 years. Homografts and autografts are therefore excellent valves in terms of patient survival. Thromboembolism, haemolysis and bleeding may be regarded as complications which do not occur with homograft and autograft valves. There was one thrombogenic episode in this group, an incidence of one per 11,994 patient years and a probability of only 0.000083 patient years. Potentially fatal hazards of late complications with homoor autograft valves decrease with time and at this time is a negligible factor. The similarity in pattern of onset of late infections and degeneration probably reflects the greater susceptibility to infection of a degenerating valve. All three groups of homografts are very similar and differ only from the excellent performance of the autograft valves.", "PMID": 442059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5479", "title": "Mitral annuloplasty--a long term clinical and haemodynamic study.", "content": "One hundred and thirteen hospital survivors with mitral annuloplasty have been followed-up from 3--19 years. Actuarially 82.4 +/- 12.1% and 65.1 +/- 18.1% of all patients are expected to be alive at 10 and 19 years respectively. 90.1 +/- 5.9% of patients were predicted to be free from reoperation at 5 years postop, while at 10 and 15 years the figures are 77.2 +/- 13.9% and 53.8 +/- 23.9% respectively. Postoperative haemodynamic investigations, performed in 18 patients at a mean duration of 8.5 (range 4--11) years, showed significant reduction in both mean pulmonary artery and wedge pressures as compared to pre-operative values. 92% of patients were in grade I and II (NYHA) clinically at the latest evaluation as compared to 84% being in grade III and IV pre-operatively. Mitral annuloplasty provides statisfactory long term clinical and haemodynamic improvement in a selected group of patients and should always be considered in the management of mitral regurgitation.", "contents": "Mitral annuloplasty--a long term clinical and haemodynamic study. One hundred and thirteen hospital survivors with mitral annuloplasty have been followed-up from 3--19 years. Actuarially 82.4 +/- 12.1% and 65.1 +/- 18.1% of all patients are expected to be alive at 10 and 19 years respectively. 90.1 +/- 5.9% of patients were predicted to be free from reoperation at 5 years postop, while at 10 and 15 years the figures are 77.2 +/- 13.9% and 53.8 +/- 23.9% respectively. Postoperative haemodynamic investigations, performed in 18 patients at a mean duration of 8.5 (range 4--11) years, showed significant reduction in both mean pulmonary artery and wedge pressures as compared to pre-operative values. 92% of patients were in grade I and II (NYHA) clinically at the latest evaluation as compared to 84% being in grade III and IV pre-operatively. Mitral annuloplasty provides statisfactory long term clinical and haemodynamic improvement in a selected group of patients and should always be considered in the management of mitral regurgitation.", "PMID": 442060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5480", "title": "Twelve year results with a caged-ball mitral prosthesis.", "content": "Over a 12 year period in 230 patients mitral valve replacement was performed using the model 6120 Starr-Edwards prosthesis. Operative mortality was 6.5%, mean follow-up of the operative survivors was 3.9 years. Estimated late survival rate was 80% at 5 years and 73% at 12 years. 38% of late deaths were considered valve-related. Under routine anticoagulation thromboembolism occurred at a rate of 4.7% per patient-year with a fatal thromboembolic incidence of 1.4% per patient-year. In comparison with data available on other currently used prosthetic valves it appears that the rates of valve-related complications are quite similar, with the 6120 Starr-Edwards model being subject to the longest follow-up.", "contents": "Twelve year results with a caged-ball mitral prosthesis. Over a 12 year period in 230 patients mitral valve replacement was performed using the model 6120 Starr-Edwards prosthesis. Operative mortality was 6.5%, mean follow-up of the operative survivors was 3.9 years. Estimated late survival rate was 80% at 5 years and 73% at 12 years. 38% of late deaths were considered valve-related. Under routine anticoagulation thromboembolism occurred at a rate of 4.7% per patient-year with a fatal thromboembolic incidence of 1.4% per patient-year. In comparison with data available on other currently used prosthetic valves it appears that the rates of valve-related complications are quite similar, with the 6120 Starr-Edwards model being subject to the longest follow-up.", "PMID": 442061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5481", "title": "Rupture of the ventricle following prosthetic replacement of the mitral valve.", "content": "40 cases, 36 from the literature and 4 of ours, of rupture of the posterior wall of the left ventricle following prosthetic mitral valve replacement are presented. Twelve of these patients survived. Possible causes of this complication, the therapeutic approach and its prevention are discussed.", "contents": "Rupture of the ventricle following prosthetic replacement of the mitral valve. 40 cases, 36 from the literature and 4 of ours, of rupture of the posterior wall of the left ventricle following prosthetic mitral valve replacement are presented. Twelve of these patients survived. Possible causes of this complication, the therapeutic approach and its prevention are discussed.", "PMID": 442062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5482", "title": "Funnel chest correction by use of AO implants and instruments.", "content": "A new method for funnel chest correction using AO implants and instruments is described. The method appears to offer certain advantages particularly in the more rigid chest wall of aldolescents and adults.", "contents": "Funnel chest correction by use of AO implants and instruments. A new method for funnel chest correction using AO implants and instruments is described. The method appears to offer certain advantages particularly in the more rigid chest wall of aldolescents and adults.", "PMID": 442063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5483", "title": "HLA--A, B haplotype frequencies in 5,202 unrelated Danes by a maximum-likelihood method of gene counting.", "content": "A population sample of 5,202 persons comprising normal, healthy individuals from three laboratories in Copenhagen was used for estimating HLA-A, -B antigen, gene, and haplotype frequencies, besides delta-values and their standard errors. The serum panels used allowed the determination of a total of 273 HLA-A, -B haplotypes, and the most significant delta-values were in agreement with those found in other Caucasian populations. The methods used for the calculations of frequencies, delta-values, and standard errors are described.", "contents": "HLA--A, B haplotype frequencies in 5,202 unrelated Danes by a maximum-likelihood method of gene counting. A population sample of 5,202 persons comprising normal, healthy individuals from three laboratories in Copenhagen was used for estimating HLA-A, -B antigen, gene, and haplotype frequencies, besides delta-values and their standard errors. The serum panels used allowed the determination of a total of 273 HLA-A, -B haplotypes, and the most significant delta-values were in agreement with those found in other Caucasian populations. The methods used for the calculations of frequencies, delta-values, and standard errors are described.", "PMID": 442064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5484", "title": "The distribution of HLA antigens and genes in the Greek population.", "content": "200 Greeks were typed by lymphocytotoxicity for 14 HLA-A and 18 HLA-B antigens with 120 sera. A high frequency of Bw35 and B5 antigen was apparent. The most remarkable disequilibria found were those between A2-B5 and A9-B18.", "contents": "The distribution of HLA antigens and genes in the Greek population. 200 Greeks were typed by lymphocytotoxicity for 14 HLA-A and 18 HLA-B antigens with 120 sera. A high frequency of Bw35 and B5 antigen was apparent. The most remarkable disequilibria found were those between A2-B5 and A9-B18.", "PMID": 442065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5485", "title": "HLA antigens in chronic alcoholic pancreatitis.", "content": "HLA typing was performed in 90 unrelated patients with chronic alcohol-associated pancreatitis. Compared with 523 healthy controls, an increased frequency was found for the HLA-B series antigen, B40 (Pless than 0.00041, corrected P less than 0.011). The increase was slightly more pronounced in patients without pancreatic calcifications than in those with calcifications. Factors such as alcohol consumption, age of disease onset and the presence of diabetes did not affect antigen frequency distribution.", "contents": "HLA antigens in chronic alcoholic pancreatitis. HLA typing was performed in 90 unrelated patients with chronic alcohol-associated pancreatitis. Compared with 523 healthy controls, an increased frequency was found for the HLA-B series antigen, B40 (Pless than 0.00041, corrected P less than 0.011). The increase was slightly more pronounced in patients without pancreatic calcifications than in those with calcifications. Factors such as alcohol consumption, age of disease onset and the presence of diabetes did not affect antigen frequency distribution.", "PMID": 442066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5486", "title": "Assay for antibody mediated cytotoxicity of mouse spermatozoa by 86rubidium release.", "content": "The analysis of the antigenic structure of murine spermatozoa has been hampered by the lack of a convenient objective serological assay. Spermatozoa, in common with other cells, are capable of concentrating 86rubidium. Antibody mediated complement dependent cytotoxicity of murine spermatozoa has been quantitated by measuring release of 86rubidium from pre-labeled spermatozoa. We have used this assay to study the murine T/t locus.", "contents": "Assay for antibody mediated cytotoxicity of mouse spermatozoa by 86rubidium release. The analysis of the antigenic structure of murine spermatozoa has been hampered by the lack of a convenient objective serological assay. Spermatozoa, in common with other cells, are capable of concentrating 86rubidium. Antibody mediated complement dependent cytotoxicity of murine spermatozoa has been quantitated by measuring release of 86rubidium from pre-labeled spermatozoa. We have used this assay to study the murine T/t locus.", "PMID": 442070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5487", "title": "HLA-A and B antigen frequencies in an asbestos exposed population with normal and abnormal chest radiographs.", "content": "Previous studies of HLA antigen frequencies in asbestos related pulmonary fibrosis have suggested some weak associations both with susceptibility to the disease (B12 and B27) and protection from the disease (B18 and Bw35). HLA typing was performed on a further series of 64 asbestos workers with no chest abnormality and 166 workers with various radiographic changes, 78 having pulmonary fibrosis. The results fail to give statistical confirmation of these associations although B27 was twice as frequently associated with pulmonary fibrosis and diffuse pleural thickening. Analysis of the combined data from this and four other studies failed to show any consistent associations.", "contents": "HLA-A and B antigen frequencies in an asbestos exposed population with normal and abnormal chest radiographs. Previous studies of HLA antigen frequencies in asbestos related pulmonary fibrosis have suggested some weak associations both with susceptibility to the disease (B12 and B27) and protection from the disease (B18 and Bw35). HLA typing was performed on a further series of 64 asbestos workers with no chest abnormality and 166 workers with various radiographic changes, 78 having pulmonary fibrosis. The results fail to give statistical confirmation of these associations although B27 was twice as frequently associated with pulmonary fibrosis and diffuse pleural thickening. Analysis of the combined data from this and four other studies failed to show any consistent associations.", "PMID": 442071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5488", "title": "Observations of vincristine-induced paracrystals in human erythroblasts in vitro.", "content": "Ultrastructural observations were made on human erythroblasts incubated in a vincristine solution. In certain concentrations and at certain incubation time intervals, paracrystals were observed in the erythroblasts. The fine structure of the paracrystals was similar to that described in platelets, leukemic lymphoblasts or cultured fibroblasts. They showed parallel filaments, amorphous mass or honeycomb-like crystalline structure. One paracrystalline form turned into another form when the sections were tilted by the use of goniometer. These paracrystals were often closely related to other organelles, such as lysosome, Golgi apparatus and nucleus. In the mitotic erythroblasts degraded microtubules coexisted with typical paracrystals.", "contents": "Observations of vincristine-induced paracrystals in human erythroblasts in vitro. Ultrastructural observations were made on human erythroblasts incubated in a vincristine solution. In certain concentrations and at certain incubation time intervals, paracrystals were observed in the erythroblasts. The fine structure of the paracrystals was similar to that described in platelets, leukemic lymphoblasts or cultured fibroblasts. They showed parallel filaments, amorphous mass or honeycomb-like crystalline structure. One paracrystalline form turned into another form when the sections were tilted by the use of goniometer. These paracrystals were often closely related to other organelles, such as lysosome, Golgi apparatus and nucleus. In the mitotic erythroblasts degraded microtubules coexisted with typical paracrystals.", "PMID": 442073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5489", "title": "Arrest reaction in man: motor arrest response by electrical stimulation of the deep structure of the cerebrum.", "content": "In spite of many reports of arrest reaction in animals, there are very few reports in man. During a therapeutic stereotactic operation we observed peculiar phenomena caused by electrical stimulation to the deep structure of the cerebrum. The electrical stimulation caused an interruption of counting and other motor actions, which could be resumed following release of stimuli. In almost all cases psychic confusion of memory disturbances were not observed. The head of the caudate nucleus and its adjacent white matter cause arrest reaction with the lowest threshold of 5 V; on the other hand, substantia medullaris lobi frontalis, radiatio corporis callosi and nucl. reticularis oralis of the thalamus caused arrest reaction with the highest threshold of 10--15 V. The arrest reaction that we observed is thought to be due to a direct effect on the head of the caudate nucleus, not due to secondary effects on the internal capsule and the motor fiber in the vicinity of the caudate nucleus. However, the possibility that the current spread to the motor fiber cannot be definitely ruled out.", "contents": "Arrest reaction in man: motor arrest response by electrical stimulation of the deep structure of the cerebrum. In spite of many reports of arrest reaction in animals, there are very few reports in man. During a therapeutic stereotactic operation we observed peculiar phenomena caused by electrical stimulation to the deep structure of the cerebrum. The electrical stimulation caused an interruption of counting and other motor actions, which could be resumed following release of stimuli. In almost all cases psychic confusion of memory disturbances were not observed. The head of the caudate nucleus and its adjacent white matter cause arrest reaction with the lowest threshold of 5 V; on the other hand, substantia medullaris lobi frontalis, radiatio corporis callosi and nucl. reticularis oralis of the thalamus caused arrest reaction with the highest threshold of 10--15 V. The arrest reaction that we observed is thought to be due to a direct effect on the head of the caudate nucleus, not due to secondary effects on the internal capsule and the motor fiber in the vicinity of the caudate nucleus. However, the possibility that the current spread to the motor fiber cannot be definitely ruled out.", "PMID": 442075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5490", "title": "Contribution of beta-glucuronidase to the degradation of chondroitin 4-sulfate by canine liver lysosomal enzymes.", "content": "Oligosaccharides derived from chondroitin 4-sulfate (Ch4-S) and chondroitin were digested by canine liver lysosomes under acidic conditions. The degree of digestion of Ch4-S by hyaluronidase and beta-glucuronidase was examined on the basis of types of the digestion products. Tetradeca- and dodecasaccharides derived from Ch4-S and chondroitin were first digested by hyaluronidase, while the octasaccharide was hydrolyzed by beta-glucuronidase. Decasaccharide was degraded by both hyaluronidase and beta-glucuronidase. The results showed that decasaccharide from Ch4-S served as the largest-molecular-weight substrate for beta-glucuronidase in the degradation of Ch4-S by the enzymes of lysosomes in contrast to the results of the digestion studies of hyaluronic acid (HA). The contribution of beta-glucuronidase to the depolymerization of chondroitin and HA by hyaluronidase was examined in the presence of saccharo-1,4-lactone, a specific inhibitor of beta-glucuronidase, in the reaction mixture. The depolymerization of chondroitin by hyaluronidase was significantly reduced by the addition of saccharo-1,4-lactone. From the results, it is suggested that beta-glucuronidase contributes to the degradation of the even-numbered oligosaccharides which inhibit the action of hyaluronidase in the depolymerization of Ch4-S.", "contents": "Contribution of beta-glucuronidase to the degradation of chondroitin 4-sulfate by canine liver lysosomal enzymes. Oligosaccharides derived from chondroitin 4-sulfate (Ch4-S) and chondroitin were digested by canine liver lysosomes under acidic conditions. The degree of digestion of Ch4-S by hyaluronidase and beta-glucuronidase was examined on the basis of types of the digestion products. Tetradeca- and dodecasaccharides derived from Ch4-S and chondroitin were first digested by hyaluronidase, while the octasaccharide was hydrolyzed by beta-glucuronidase. Decasaccharide was degraded by both hyaluronidase and beta-glucuronidase. The results showed that decasaccharide from Ch4-S served as the largest-molecular-weight substrate for beta-glucuronidase in the degradation of Ch4-S by the enzymes of lysosomes in contrast to the results of the digestion studies of hyaluronic acid (HA). The contribution of beta-glucuronidase to the depolymerization of chondroitin and HA by hyaluronidase was examined in the presence of saccharo-1,4-lactone, a specific inhibitor of beta-glucuronidase, in the reaction mixture. The depolymerization of chondroitin by hyaluronidase was significantly reduced by the addition of saccharo-1,4-lactone. From the results, it is suggested that beta-glucuronidase contributes to the degradation of the even-numbered oligosaccharides which inhibit the action of hyaluronidase in the depolymerization of Ch4-S.", "PMID": 442079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5491", "title": "Adriamycin instillation therapy for bladder tumors.", "content": "Topical instillation of Adriamycin, 40 mg in 20 ml sterilized distilled water, was performed in 20 cases of bladder tumors every day for two weeks. In 8 cases (40%) the tumors disappeared completely, while in 5 cases (25%) tumors were reduced in size, but in 7 cases (35%) there was no effect. Therefore, the rate of effectiveness was 65%. The local bladder reaction and urethral pain were noted in all cases, as a result of which the therapy was interrupted in 2 cases. Abnormal values of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets were not observed. In 3 cases the serum level of Adriamycin was only trace 1 or 2 hr after instillation. In conclusion, Mitomycin C was thought to be superior to Adriamycin as far as the effectiveness and irritability on the normal bladder epithelium were concerned.", "contents": "Adriamycin instillation therapy for bladder tumors. Topical instillation of Adriamycin, 40 mg in 20 ml sterilized distilled water, was performed in 20 cases of bladder tumors every day for two weeks. In 8 cases (40%) the tumors disappeared completely, while in 5 cases (25%) tumors were reduced in size, but in 7 cases (35%) there was no effect. Therefore, the rate of effectiveness was 65%. The local bladder reaction and urethral pain were noted in all cases, as a result of which the therapy was interrupted in 2 cases. Abnormal values of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets were not observed. In 3 cases the serum level of Adriamycin was only trace 1 or 2 hr after instillation. In conclusion, Mitomycin C was thought to be superior to Adriamycin as far as the effectiveness and irritability on the normal bladder epithelium were concerned.", "PMID": 442080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5492", "title": "Immunotherapeutic effect of allogeneic tumor cells on the growth of autochthonous 3-methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas in rats.", "content": "The tumor-inhibitory effect of injections of allogeneic tumor cells was observed. Established autochthonous sarcomas induced in the subcutaneous tissue of rats by 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) were treated with immunization by using allogeneic Hirosaki sarcoma cells. When MCA-induced sarcomas grew to approximately 1 cm in mean diameter, Hirosaki sarcoma cells were inoculated into various tissues of primary tumor-bearing rats. Immunizing procedures consisted of intraperitoneal and subcutaneous injections in one experimental group, and of intradermal and intraperitoneal injections in another. Significantly inhibitory effect on the growth of autochthonous sarcomas was observed in the initial stage up to 2 cm in diameter as compared with that of control sarcomas. No significant inhibition was seen in the course of the growth of sarcomas larger than 2 cm in diameter. This results may indicate that immunotherapy by using allogeneic tumor cells should be considered to be valuable for the treatment of human cancer.", "contents": "Immunotherapeutic effect of allogeneic tumor cells on the growth of autochthonous 3-methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas in rats. The tumor-inhibitory effect of injections of allogeneic tumor cells was observed. Established autochthonous sarcomas induced in the subcutaneous tissue of rats by 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) were treated with immunization by using allogeneic Hirosaki sarcoma cells. When MCA-induced sarcomas grew to approximately 1 cm in mean diameter, Hirosaki sarcoma cells were inoculated into various tissues of primary tumor-bearing rats. Immunizing procedures consisted of intraperitoneal and subcutaneous injections in one experimental group, and of intradermal and intraperitoneal injections in another. Significantly inhibitory effect on the growth of autochthonous sarcomas was observed in the initial stage up to 2 cm in diameter as compared with that of control sarcomas. No significant inhibition was seen in the course of the growth of sarcomas larger than 2 cm in diameter. This results may indicate that immunotherapy by using allogeneic tumor cells should be considered to be valuable for the treatment of human cancer.", "PMID": 442081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5493", "title": "Evolution of glomerular lesions in rats with spontaneous diabetes.", "content": "The development of glomerular lesions associated with ageing was investigated electron microscopically in rats with spontaneous diabetes. In young diabetic rats at eight weeks of age, there was no particular difference in ultrastructure from age-matched control rats showing an even contour of glomerular basement membrane, whereas in the diabetic rats at 12 weeks of age thickening of basement membrane with irregular protrusion of the epithelial side of lamina densa and accumulation of basement membrane-like materials in the mesangial regions could be observed. After 16 to 24 weeks of age in the diabetic rats, hemispherical thickening in addition to diffuse thickening of glomerular basement membrane was noted. The thickening of basement membrane was due to widening of lamina densa consisting of accumulation of basement membrane-materials on the epithelial side of the lamina densa, all the way along the peripheral capillary loops. These features of glomerular lesions in the diabetic rats were progressively accentuated accompanying ageing. The early glomerular ultrastructural alterations in the diabetic rats were very compatible with those seen in the elder control rats. The results indicated that the development of diabetic glomerulopathy might be destined very early in life of the spontaneously diabetic rats supposedly by their diabetic genes.", "contents": "Evolution of glomerular lesions in rats with spontaneous diabetes. The development of glomerular lesions associated with ageing was investigated electron microscopically in rats with spontaneous diabetes. In young diabetic rats at eight weeks of age, there was no particular difference in ultrastructure from age-matched control rats showing an even contour of glomerular basement membrane, whereas in the diabetic rats at 12 weeks of age thickening of basement membrane with irregular protrusion of the epithelial side of lamina densa and accumulation of basement membrane-like materials in the mesangial regions could be observed. After 16 to 24 weeks of age in the diabetic rats, hemispherical thickening in addition to diffuse thickening of glomerular basement membrane was noted. The thickening of basement membrane was due to widening of lamina densa consisting of accumulation of basement membrane-materials on the epithelial side of the lamina densa, all the way along the peripheral capillary loops. These features of glomerular lesions in the diabetic rats were progressively accentuated accompanying ageing. The early glomerular ultrastructural alterations in the diabetic rats were very compatible with those seen in the elder control rats. The results indicated that the development of diabetic glomerulopathy might be destined very early in life of the spontaneously diabetic rats supposedly by their diabetic genes.", "PMID": 442082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5494", "title": "Isolation and characterization of proteohyaluronic acid from human umbilical cord.", "content": "Proteohyaluronic acid was extracted from human umbilical cord with 0.2% NaCl, then purified by cetylpyridinium chloride(CPC)-precipitation, DEAE-cellulose column chromatography, gel-filtration on Sephadex G-200 and on Sepharose 4B, in succession. The purified preparation contained glucosamine (40.1%), glucuronic acid (45.7%) and protein (2.6%). Glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, serine and aspartic acid were the major amino acids of the protein moiety. The result of the gel-filtration suggested that an average molecular weight was more than 1 x 10(6). Although analytical data for the constituent sugars and infrared spectra were similar before and after pronase digestion of this proteohyaluronic acid, the mobilities in electrophoresis and the elution patterns of gel-filtration differed remarkably from one another. Since the protein content decreased from 2.6% to 0.3% by the proteolytic digestion, it is evident that the degraded protein moiety played an important role in maintaining the macromolecular structure of this proteohyaluronic acid.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of proteohyaluronic acid from human umbilical cord. Proteohyaluronic acid was extracted from human umbilical cord with 0.2% NaCl, then purified by cetylpyridinium chloride(CPC)-precipitation, DEAE-cellulose column chromatography, gel-filtration on Sephadex G-200 and on Sepharose 4B, in succession. The purified preparation contained glucosamine (40.1%), glucuronic acid (45.7%) and protein (2.6%). Glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, serine and aspartic acid were the major amino acids of the protein moiety. The result of the gel-filtration suggested that an average molecular weight was more than 1 x 10(6). Although analytical data for the constituent sugars and infrared spectra were similar before and after pronase digestion of this proteohyaluronic acid, the mobilities in electrophoresis and the elution patterns of gel-filtration differed remarkably from one another. Since the protein content decreased from 2.6% to 0.3% by the proteolytic digestion, it is evident that the degraded protein moiety played an important role in maintaining the macromolecular structure of this proteohyaluronic acid.", "PMID": 442083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5495", "title": "Ammonia metabolism in the rat liver in biliary obstruction.", "content": "Arginine synthetase activity and ammonia removal in liver slices were determined in rats with obstructive jaundice or acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver dysfunction and the following results were obtained: (1) Urea synthesis and ammonia removal in liver slices progressively decreased with prolonged biliary obstruction. The effects of ATP and/or ornithine addition were also markedly decreased, particularly in the group with 6 weeks of biliary obstruction. (2) Arginine synthetase activity also fell with prolongation of biliary obstruction and the fall was most pronounced in the 6-week group. (3) The CCl4-induced liver dysfunction group showed a significantly higher level of arginine synthetase activity than the group with 6 weeks of biliary obstruction, but ammonia removal was markedly decreased and the effects of ATP and ornithine addition were prominent. From the results, it is concluded that, due to a fall in the enzyme activity of the urea cycle in obstructive jaundice, liver dysfunction can easily occur with prolongation of the obstruction, while hepatic urea cycle dysfunction is brought about by severe metabolic disruption in the liver damaged by CCl4.", "contents": "Ammonia metabolism in the rat liver in biliary obstruction. Arginine synthetase activity and ammonia removal in liver slices were determined in rats with obstructive jaundice or acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver dysfunction and the following results were obtained: (1) Urea synthesis and ammonia removal in liver slices progressively decreased with prolonged biliary obstruction. The effects of ATP and/or ornithine addition were also markedly decreased, particularly in the group with 6 weeks of biliary obstruction. (2) Arginine synthetase activity also fell with prolongation of biliary obstruction and the fall was most pronounced in the 6-week group. (3) The CCl4-induced liver dysfunction group showed a significantly higher level of arginine synthetase activity than the group with 6 weeks of biliary obstruction, but ammonia removal was markedly decreased and the effects of ATP and ornithine addition were prominent. From the results, it is concluded that, due to a fall in the enzyme activity of the urea cycle in obstructive jaundice, liver dysfunction can easily occur with prolongation of the obstruction, while hepatic urea cycle dysfunction is brought about by severe metabolic disruption in the liver damaged by CCl4.", "PMID": 442084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5496", "title": "Uteroplacental blood flow and uteroplacental shunt rates in normal and prolonged pregnancies in rats.", "content": "To reveal the regulatory function in uteroplacental blood flow we measured, using the method of double tracer microspheres, the rates of uteroplacental blood flow (UPBF) and uteroplacental shunt (UP-shunt) in SD-strain rats of normal and prolonged pregnancy. (1) In the group of rats of normal pregnancy, the rate of UPBF attained a peak on the 20th day of gestation, while the UP-shunt rate was highest on the 18th day of gestation. (2) In the progesterone-induced prolonged pregnancy group, the rate of UPBF remained at an 8% level until the the 22nd day, i.e., the first day of prolonged pregnancy, and dropped to 6.6% on the 23rd day. The UP-shunt rate in the progesterone-administered group was about 27% on the 20th day, more favorable than the corresponding rate in the normal group, but thereafter rapidly decreased. The rate of increase in fetal body weight in this group became lower, showing a fetal death rate of 4.6%. (3) The decreases in placental alkaline phosphatase and leucine aminopeptidase examined as markers of placental function lagged behind the fall in the UP-shunt rate. On the 23rd day of gestation when the rates of UPBF and UP-shunt dropped, the decreases in their placental enzyme activities were remarkable.", "contents": "Uteroplacental blood flow and uteroplacental shunt rates in normal and prolonged pregnancies in rats. To reveal the regulatory function in uteroplacental blood flow we measured, using the method of double tracer microspheres, the rates of uteroplacental blood flow (UPBF) and uteroplacental shunt (UP-shunt) in SD-strain rats of normal and prolonged pregnancy. (1) In the group of rats of normal pregnancy, the rate of UPBF attained a peak on the 20th day of gestation, while the UP-shunt rate was highest on the 18th day of gestation. (2) In the progesterone-induced prolonged pregnancy group, the rate of UPBF remained at an 8% level until the the 22nd day, i.e., the first day of prolonged pregnancy, and dropped to 6.6% on the 23rd day. The UP-shunt rate in the progesterone-administered group was about 27% on the 20th day, more favorable than the corresponding rate in the normal group, but thereafter rapidly decreased. The rate of increase in fetal body weight in this group became lower, showing a fetal death rate of 4.6%. (3) The decreases in placental alkaline phosphatase and leucine aminopeptidase examined as markers of placental function lagged behind the fall in the UP-shunt rate. On the 23rd day of gestation when the rates of UPBF and UP-shunt dropped, the decreases in their placental enzyme activities were remarkable.", "PMID": 442085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5497", "title": "[Radiotherapy of the medulloblastoma: development of methods and results of the treatment of 30 patients from 1963 to 1976 (author's transl)].", "content": "The results of the treatment of 30 patients with medulloblastoma from 1963--1976 are analysed. 20% of all patients had no evidence of disease after five years. Radiation technique and dose were subject to change in these years and the results show, that a 5 year cure rate about 40% or more can only be achieved, if the radiation dose in the fossa posterior is about 5000 rd in 5--6 weeks. The ongoing studies will show, whether the results of an optimized radiotherapy can further be enhanced by chemotherapy.", "contents": "[Radiotherapy of the medulloblastoma: development of methods and results of the treatment of 30 patients from 1963 to 1976 (author's transl)]. The results of the treatment of 30 patients with medulloblastoma from 1963--1976 are analysed. 20% of all patients had no evidence of disease after five years. Radiation technique and dose were subject to change in these years and the results show, that a 5 year cure rate about 40% or more can only be achieved, if the radiation dose in the fossa posterior is about 5000 rd in 5--6 weeks. The ongoing studies will show, whether the results of an optimized radiotherapy can further be enhanced by chemotherapy.", "PMID": 442113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5498", "title": "[Bisectorial small-angle pendulum irradiation alternatively to other methods of 60Co-teletherapy: valence and volume doses (author's transl)].", "content": "A comparison is made between five irradiation methods, the dose distribution and volume doses of which had been ascertained by means of two phantoms presupposed differently large. Of the two methods of small-angle pendulum irradiation, the bisectorial monaxial pendulum technique turns out to be a practicalbe alternative to fixed-field and rotation irradiations. Similarly to fixed-field irradiation with two opposed fields, to which, after all, this technique is superior in every respect, it makes possible a relatively simple spatial irradiation planning. In this regard it is also more favorable than the rotation irradiations, though they give security of a more homogeneous load to axially parallel focuses; but an oblique position of the focal axis can be compensated only by an extension of the target volume and consequently augmentation of the volume dose. The necessity of confining to a certain extent the sum of absorbed energy is accentuated.", "contents": "[Bisectorial small-angle pendulum irradiation alternatively to other methods of 60Co-teletherapy: valence and volume doses (author's transl)]. A comparison is made between five irradiation methods, the dose distribution and volume doses of which had been ascertained by means of two phantoms presupposed differently large. Of the two methods of small-angle pendulum irradiation, the bisectorial monaxial pendulum technique turns out to be a practicalbe alternative to fixed-field and rotation irradiations. Similarly to fixed-field irradiation with two opposed fields, to which, after all, this technique is superior in every respect, it makes possible a relatively simple spatial irradiation planning. In this regard it is also more favorable than the rotation irradiations, though they give security of a more homogeneous load to axially parallel focuses; but an oblique position of the focal axis can be compensated only by an extension of the target volume and consequently augmentation of the volume dose. The necessity of confining to a certain extent the sum of absorbed energy is accentuated.", "PMID": 442114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5499", "title": "[Further considerations on the basis of the Ellis-formula and its application (author's transl)].", "content": "Computational methods for the determination of normal tissue tolerance under various modes of dose fractionation are applied at many radiation therapy installations. The methods differ in details, but most are based on the Ellis-formula. A survey of the relevant quantities and relations is given in order to facilitate comparison of the various methods. The established equations which are applicable to regular fractionation are related to the generalization of the Ellis-formula which is also applicable to irregular fractionation modes.", "contents": "[Further considerations on the basis of the Ellis-formula and its application (author's transl)]. Computational methods for the determination of normal tissue tolerance under various modes of dose fractionation are applied at many radiation therapy installations. The methods differ in details, but most are based on the Ellis-formula. A survey of the relevant quantities and relations is given in order to facilitate comparison of the various methods. The established equations which are applicable to regular fractionation are related to the generalization of the Ellis-formula which is also applicable to irregular fractionation modes.", "PMID": 442115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5500", "title": "[Thermographically visualized cutaneous reactions after irradiation with fast electrons (author's transl)].", "content": "A comparison was made between thermographically visualized cutaneous reactions of two groups of patients after a therapy with fast electrons. One group underwent one-series irradiation, the other group received two series with an interval of 21 days. The cutaneous reaction after the interval only appeared following considerably higher doses than with one-series therapy. This difference indicates the recuperative capability of normal tissue after the exposition to subtolerance effects. The data were evaluated using a function derived from the Ellis-formula. A \"biological dosimeter\" can be developed based on thermic reactions of subcutaneous connective tissue.", "contents": "[Thermographically visualized cutaneous reactions after irradiation with fast electrons (author's transl)]. A comparison was made between thermographically visualized cutaneous reactions of two groups of patients after a therapy with fast electrons. One group underwent one-series irradiation, the other group received two series with an interval of 21 days. The cutaneous reaction after the interval only appeared following considerably higher doses than with one-series therapy. This difference indicates the recuperative capability of normal tissue after the exposition to subtolerance effects. The data were evaluated using a function derived from the Ellis-formula. A \"biological dosimeter\" can be developed based on thermic reactions of subcutaneous connective tissue.", "PMID": 442116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5501", "title": "[Cellular immune response and concentrations of serum immunoglobulins in patients with Hodgkin's disease (author's transl)].", "content": "The cellular immune response was explored by us with the help of tuberculin and DNCB reactions in 73 cases of Hodgkin's disease. Serum immunoglobulins were simultaneously determined. Tuberculin and DNCB reactions had significantly been decreased before treatment. A significant augmentation of the IgA is remarkable in tuberculin and DNCB positive groups. The positivity of the cutaneous tests is only temporarily lowered by radiation therapy, the difference being not significant, while IgM values in patients who had undergone radiation therapy are remaining at a lower level. Patients in remission revealed a positivity in tests that was approximating the values before treatment. Lower values were observed in all the three groups of immunoglobulins; the decrease of the IgM-values was significant. In case of a relapse, a significant decrease of positivity developed, accompanied by significantly increased values of IgA in tuberculin and DNCB negative groups. Only insignificantly positive values of the cutaneous tests were seen in the course of cytostatic treatment, and the values of the IgM were significantly decreased.", "contents": "[Cellular immune response and concentrations of serum immunoglobulins in patients with Hodgkin's disease (author's transl)]. The cellular immune response was explored by us with the help of tuberculin and DNCB reactions in 73 cases of Hodgkin's disease. Serum immunoglobulins were simultaneously determined. Tuberculin and DNCB reactions had significantly been decreased before treatment. A significant augmentation of the IgA is remarkable in tuberculin and DNCB positive groups. The positivity of the cutaneous tests is only temporarily lowered by radiation therapy, the difference being not significant, while IgM values in patients who had undergone radiation therapy are remaining at a lower level. Patients in remission revealed a positivity in tests that was approximating the values before treatment. Lower values were observed in all the three groups of immunoglobulins; the decrease of the IgM-values was significant. In case of a relapse, a significant decrease of positivity developed, accompanied by significantly increased values of IgA in tuberculin and DNCB negative groups. Only insignificantly positive values of the cutaneous tests were seen in the course of cytostatic treatment, and the values of the IgM were significantly decreased.", "PMID": 442117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5502", "title": "Characterization of metronidazole-phosphate, a water-soluble metronidazole derivative, as a radiosensitizer of hypoxic cells.", "content": "A water-soluble derivative of metronidazole (Flagyl) was synthetized with the purpose to overcome some practical difficulties in the clinical administration of the drug. The derivative, a phosphate ester of metronidazole, was characterized for different physical-chemical properties. It had a low toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, it retained a radiosensitizing effect specific for hypoxic cells which was, however, decreased in comparison with the parent compound. The decreased sensitization was related to a decreased one-electron reduction potential and octanol/water partition coefficient. In mice, metronidazole-phosphate had a prolonged blood life in comparison to metronidazole.", "contents": "Characterization of metronidazole-phosphate, a water-soluble metronidazole derivative, as a radiosensitizer of hypoxic cells. A water-soluble derivative of metronidazole (Flagyl) was synthetized with the purpose to overcome some practical difficulties in the clinical administration of the drug. The derivative, a phosphate ester of metronidazole, was characterized for different physical-chemical properties. It had a low toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, it retained a radiosensitizing effect specific for hypoxic cells which was, however, decreased in comparison with the parent compound. The decreased sensitization was related to a decreased one-electron reduction potential and octanol/water partition coefficient. In mice, metronidazole-phosphate had a prolonged blood life in comparison to metronidazole.", "PMID": 442119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5503", "title": "Liver RNA biosynthesis in adrenalectomized rats: effect of whole-body X-irradiation.", "content": "Exposure of rats to a single whole-body dose of X-rays led to an enhanced rate of RNA synthesis in the liver during 4 to 18 hours post-irradiation. This increase in RNA synthesis could not be obliterated by protecting the liver during irradiation. On the other hand, if adrenals were surgically removed prior to whole-body radiation exposure, no elevation either in liver RNA synthesis in vivo or liver chromatin template activity in vitro was apparent. Protection of only the head during irradiation could also prevent the stimulation in liver RNA synthesis in vivo. These results are suggestive of the involvement of neuro-endocrine reactions along the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axes to be the underlying factors in whole-body radiation-evoked activation of the transcription machinery in the liver.", "contents": "Liver RNA biosynthesis in adrenalectomized rats: effect of whole-body X-irradiation. Exposure of rats to a single whole-body dose of X-rays led to an enhanced rate of RNA synthesis in the liver during 4 to 18 hours post-irradiation. This increase in RNA synthesis could not be obliterated by protecting the liver during irradiation. On the other hand, if adrenals were surgically removed prior to whole-body radiation exposure, no elevation either in liver RNA synthesis in vivo or liver chromatin template activity in vitro was apparent. Protection of only the head during irradiation could also prevent the stimulation in liver RNA synthesis in vivo. These results are suggestive of the involvement of neuro-endocrine reactions along the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axes to be the underlying factors in whole-body radiation-evoked activation of the transcription machinery in the liver.", "PMID": 442120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5504", "title": "Steroid synthesis. The modified Hunsdiecker degradation of bile acids and related compounds.", "content": "The modified Hunsdiecker degradation using red mercuric oxide-bromine has been found to be a convenient method for the conversion of bile acids to steroids containing bromo alkyl sidechains.", "contents": "Steroid synthesis. The modified Hunsdiecker degradation of bile acids and related compounds. The modified Hunsdiecker degradation using red mercuric oxide-bromine has been found to be a convenient method for the conversion of bile acids to steroids containing bromo alkyl sidechains.", "PMID": 442121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5505", "title": "Differences in steroid specificity for rat androgen binding protein and the cytoplasmic receptor.", "content": "Two proteins in the rat, androgen binding protein (ABP) and the cytoplasmic receptor (CR), have high affinity and limited capacity for binding androgens. To determine the structural requirements for binding with high affinity, each protein was partially purified and the ability of over 100 steroids to compete with [3H]dihydrotestosterone (17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-3-one) for binding sites was assessed. The results indicate marked differences in the steroid specificities of the two proteins. Some alterations of dihydrotestosterone at C-2 or C-2 and C-3 increase binding to ABP two to four-fold. Similarly, the affinity of 17 beta-hydroxy-7 alpha-methyl-4-estren-3-one for ABP increases two-fold when a double bond is created at C-14. Addition of a methyl group in the alpha position at C-7 or C-17, or an ethinyl group at C-17 cause little change in affinity; however, modifications at C-11 and C-17 beta, and deletion of the methyl group at C-10 significantly impair binding to ABP. Binding to the CR is maintained or increased by deletion of the methyl group at C-10. Binding is lessened by modifications at C-3 and C-17 beta. Most alterations at C-2, C-7, C-11, and C-17 alpha have only minor effects on binding to the CR. These studies should provide a molecular basis for predicting the effects of specific structural modifications. When some modifications at C-2 or C-2 and C-3 are combined with changes at C-17 beta, the resulting steroids retain very high affinity for ABP and very limited binding to the CR. Such steroids may provide a means for assessing the function of ABP.", "contents": "Differences in steroid specificity for rat androgen binding protein and the cytoplasmic receptor. Two proteins in the rat, androgen binding protein (ABP) and the cytoplasmic receptor (CR), have high affinity and limited capacity for binding androgens. To determine the structural requirements for binding with high affinity, each protein was partially purified and the ability of over 100 steroids to compete with [3H]dihydrotestosterone (17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-3-one) for binding sites was assessed. The results indicate marked differences in the steroid specificities of the two proteins. Some alterations of dihydrotestosterone at C-2 or C-2 and C-3 increase binding to ABP two to four-fold. Similarly, the affinity of 17 beta-hydroxy-7 alpha-methyl-4-estren-3-one for ABP increases two-fold when a double bond is created at C-14. Addition of a methyl group in the alpha position at C-7 or C-17, or an ethinyl group at C-17 cause little change in affinity; however, modifications at C-11 and C-17 beta, and deletion of the methyl group at C-10 significantly impair binding to ABP. Binding to the CR is maintained or increased by deletion of the methyl group at C-10. Binding is lessened by modifications at C-3 and C-17 beta. Most alterations at C-2, C-7, C-11, and C-17 alpha have only minor effects on binding to the CR. These studies should provide a molecular basis for predicting the effects of specific structural modifications. When some modifications at C-2 or C-2 and C-3 are combined with changes at C-17 beta, the resulting steroids retain very high affinity for ABP and very limited binding to the CR. Such steroids may provide a means for assessing the function of ABP.", "PMID": 442122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5506", "title": "Selective inhibition by secosteroids of 5 alpha-reductase activity in human sex skin fibroblasts.", "content": "The effects of 5,10-secoestra-4,5-diene-3,10,17-trione (Compound I) and 5,10-seco-19-norpregna-4,5-diene,3,10,20-trione (Compound II) on the 5 alpha-reductase activity and on the androgen receptors of normal human sex skin fibroblasts were investigated. The Vmax and Km of the transformation of testosterone to 5 alpha-reduced products was 387 pg/microgram DNA/30 min and 234 X 10(-9)M, respectively. When the inhibitors were introduced in the assay, the 5 alpha-reductase activity was markedly reduced, Compound I being a less potent inhibitor than Compound II. At 15 min, the inhibition was greater than at 30 and 60 min. The Ki for Compound I was 1.60 x 10(-6)M with a Vmax of 83 to 553 pg/microgram DNA/30 min. For Compound II, the Ki was 0.53 x 10(-6)M with a Vmax of 70 to 340 pg/microgram DNA/30 min. The inhibition was of the noncompetitive type. Studies with androgen receptors showed that Compound I had a lower affinity for the receptors than Compound II. The ID50 for 3H-DHT and 3H-T for Compound I were 42.9 x 10(-7)M and 8.6 x 10(-7)M, respectively, whereas for Compound II, they were 10.6 x 10(-7)M and 4.8 x 10(-7)M.", "contents": "Selective inhibition by secosteroids of 5 alpha-reductase activity in human sex skin fibroblasts. The effects of 5,10-secoestra-4,5-diene-3,10,17-trione (Compound I) and 5,10-seco-19-norpregna-4,5-diene,3,10,20-trione (Compound II) on the 5 alpha-reductase activity and on the androgen receptors of normal human sex skin fibroblasts were investigated. The Vmax and Km of the transformation of testosterone to 5 alpha-reduced products was 387 pg/microgram DNA/30 min and 234 X 10(-9)M, respectively. When the inhibitors were introduced in the assay, the 5 alpha-reductase activity was markedly reduced, Compound I being a less potent inhibitor than Compound II. At 15 min, the inhibition was greater than at 30 and 60 min. The Ki for Compound I was 1.60 x 10(-6)M with a Vmax of 83 to 553 pg/microgram DNA/30 min. For Compound II, the Ki was 0.53 x 10(-6)M with a Vmax of 70 to 340 pg/microgram DNA/30 min. The inhibition was of the noncompetitive type. Studies with androgen receptors showed that Compound I had a lower affinity for the receptors than Compound II. The ID50 for 3H-DHT and 3H-T for Compound I were 42.9 x 10(-7)M and 8.6 x 10(-7)M, respectively, whereas for Compound II, they were 10.6 x 10(-7)M and 4.8 x 10(-7)M.", "PMID": 442123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5507", "title": "Lumi-mestranol and epi-lumi-mestranol.", "content": "Treatment of lumi-estrone 3-methyl ether (I) with acetylene gave the C-17-epimeric compounds lumi-mestranol (3-methoxy-17 alpha-ethynyl-13 alpha-estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17 beta-ol, III ) and epi-lumi-mestranol (3-methoxy-17 beta-ethynyl-13 alpha-estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17 alpha-ol, IV). The structures of the two isomers were assigned on the basis of their molecular rotations and shift-reagent experiments in the NMR. The irradiation of estrone 3-methyl ether (II) to provide compound I was investigated in two solvent systems. Minor products of these reactions were the seco-steroids VII, VIII and X.", "contents": "Lumi-mestranol and epi-lumi-mestranol. Treatment of lumi-estrone 3-methyl ether (I) with acetylene gave the C-17-epimeric compounds lumi-mestranol (3-methoxy-17 alpha-ethynyl-13 alpha-estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17 beta-ol, III ) and epi-lumi-mestranol (3-methoxy-17 beta-ethynyl-13 alpha-estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17 alpha-ol, IV). The structures of the two isomers were assigned on the basis of their molecular rotations and shift-reagent experiments in the NMR. The irradiation of estrone 3-methyl ether (II) to provide compound I was investigated in two solvent systems. Minor products of these reactions were the seco-steroids VII, VIII and X.", "PMID": 442124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5508", "title": "The synthesis of methyl 3 alpha, 7 alpha-diacetoxy-11-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate.", "content": "Reaction of methyl-3 alpha-7 alpha-diacetoxy-11 alpha-bromo-12-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate with sodium borohydride in pyridine solution containing sodium acetate gave the corresponding 11 beta, 12 beta-epoxide in 65% yield. The epoxy-ring was opened with hydrobromic or hydroiodic acid to give the corresponding 12 alpha-halo-11 beta-alcohols, which were converted to the halo-ketones and finally to methyl 3 alpha,7 alpha-diacetoxy-11-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate.", "contents": "The synthesis of methyl 3 alpha, 7 alpha-diacetoxy-11-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate. Reaction of methyl-3 alpha-7 alpha-diacetoxy-11 alpha-bromo-12-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate with sodium borohydride in pyridine solution containing sodium acetate gave the corresponding 11 beta, 12 beta-epoxide in 65% yield. The epoxy-ring was opened with hydrobromic or hydroiodic acid to give the corresponding 12 alpha-halo-11 beta-alcohols, which were converted to the halo-ketones and finally to methyl 3 alpha,7 alpha-diacetoxy-11-oxo-5 beta-cholan-24-oate.", "PMID": 442125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5509", "title": "Significance of various cholesterol, ester hydrolases in aorta.", "content": "This study for the first time has simultaneously assayed three cholesteryl ester hydrolase activities located in the various subcellular fractions (lysosomal, microsomal, and soluble) of the aorta and their significance in aortic cholesteryl ester accumulation during genetic and cholesterol-fed atherosclerosis is assessed. When the enzyme activities in the aorta of age-matched atherosclerosis-susceptible White Carneau and atherosclerosis-resistant Show Racer pigeons were compared, a decrease in microsomal cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity was found during the period of cholesteryl ester accumulation. However, under cholesterol-fed conditions (which further increase cholesteryl ester accumulation), an increase in lysosomal cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity and a decrease in soluble cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity was found. These studies have documented differences in response in specific cholesteryl ester hydrosases of the aorta to genetic and cholesterol-fed atherogenesis and warrant further studies to investigate the effect of hormonal and dietary factors on the activities of these enzymes.", "contents": "Significance of various cholesterol, ester hydrolases in aorta. This study for the first time has simultaneously assayed three cholesteryl ester hydrolase activities located in the various subcellular fractions (lysosomal, microsomal, and soluble) of the aorta and their significance in aortic cholesteryl ester accumulation during genetic and cholesterol-fed atherosclerosis is assessed. When the enzyme activities in the aorta of age-matched atherosclerosis-susceptible White Carneau and atherosclerosis-resistant Show Racer pigeons were compared, a decrease in microsomal cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity was found during the period of cholesteryl ester accumulation. However, under cholesterol-fed conditions (which further increase cholesteryl ester accumulation), an increase in lysosomal cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity and a decrease in soluble cholesteryl ester hydrolase activity was found. These studies have documented differences in response in specific cholesteryl ester hydrosases of the aorta to genetic and cholesterol-fed atherogenesis and warrant further studies to investigate the effect of hormonal and dietary factors on the activities of these enzymes.", "PMID": 442126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5510", "title": "Configurational assignment of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol excreted by patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (a circular dichroism study).", "content": "The absolute configuration of the C27 pentahydroxy bile alcohol present in bile and feces of two patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) was determined by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Under anhydrous conditions CD spectra of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol in the presence of Eu (fod) 3[tris (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3-hepta fluoro-7, 7-dimethyl-octane-4, 6-dionato) europium (III)] exhibited a large induced split Cotton effect at ca. 310 nm. From the induced circular dichroism of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol with Eu(fod) 3 it was concluded that the CTX bile alcohol has the 1, 3 glycol structure with carbon 23 having the R configuration. This information will be useful in elucidating a structural mechanism for the conversion of 5 beta-cholestranepentols into bile acids in man and rat.", "contents": "Configurational assignment of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol excreted by patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (a circular dichroism study). The absolute configuration of the C27 pentahydroxy bile alcohol present in bile and feces of two patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) was determined by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Under anhydrous conditions CD spectra of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol in the presence of Eu (fod) 3[tris (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3-hepta fluoro-7, 7-dimethyl-octane-4, 6-dionato) europium (III)] exhibited a large induced split Cotton effect at ca. 310 nm. From the induced circular dichroism of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 23, 25-pentol with Eu(fod) 3 it was concluded that the CTX bile alcohol has the 1, 3 glycol structure with carbon 23 having the R configuration. This information will be useful in elucidating a structural mechanism for the conversion of 5 beta-cholestranepentols into bile acids in man and rat.", "PMID": 442127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5511", "title": "Synthesis of iodine-131 labeled 6 beta-iodomethyl-19-norsitost-5(10)-en-3 beta-ol and 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol for adrenal imaging.", "content": "6 BETA-Iodomethyl-19-norsitost-5(10)-en-3 beta-ol (V) was synthesized by homoallylic rearrangement of 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol (IV), which was obtained by the hydrolysis of 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol acetate (III) derived from the displacement of sitost-5-ene-3 beta, 19-diol 3-acetate 19-p-toluenesulfonate (I) with sodium iodide in isopropanol. The radioiodinated IV and V were prepared by isotope exchange with sodium iodide-I-131.", "contents": "Synthesis of iodine-131 labeled 6 beta-iodomethyl-19-norsitost-5(10)-en-3 beta-ol and 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol for adrenal imaging. 6 BETA-Iodomethyl-19-norsitost-5(10)-en-3 beta-ol (V) was synthesized by homoallylic rearrangement of 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol (IV), which was obtained by the hydrolysis of 19-iodositost-5-en-3 beta-ol acetate (III) derived from the displacement of sitost-5-ene-3 beta, 19-diol 3-acetate 19-p-toluenesulfonate (I) with sodium iodide in isopropanol. The radioiodinated IV and V were prepared by isotope exchange with sodium iodide-I-131.", "PMID": 442128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5512", "title": "Mass spectrometry and stability of t-butyldimethylsilylethers of some estrogens and androstanes.", "content": "In addition to using radioimmunoassays for the determination of estrogens and other steroids, the possibility of using mass fragmentography for analysis was investigated. t-Butyldimethylsilyl chloride was selected as a reagent for derivatisation because it forms rather stable silylethers. In all the mass-spectra obrained from the steroid derivatives, one pronounced peak suitable for mass fragmentography was always present. Some of the spectra of the investigated estrogens, as well as testosterone, 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one and 17 alpha-methyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-3-one are discussed. The stability of various t-butyldimethylsilylethers and the rate of enolization of testosterone and progesterone in the presence of the silylation-agent under different conditions were established.", "contents": "Mass spectrometry and stability of t-butyldimethylsilylethers of some estrogens and androstanes. In addition to using radioimmunoassays for the determination of estrogens and other steroids, the possibility of using mass fragmentography for analysis was investigated. t-Butyldimethylsilyl chloride was selected as a reagent for derivatisation because it forms rather stable silylethers. In all the mass-spectra obrained from the steroid derivatives, one pronounced peak suitable for mass fragmentography was always present. Some of the spectra of the investigated estrogens, as well as testosterone, 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one and 17 alpha-methyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-3-one are discussed. The stability of various t-butyldimethylsilylethers and the rate of enolization of testosterone and progesterone in the presence of the silylation-agent under different conditions were established.", "PMID": 442130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5513", "title": "A microassay for the measurement of androgen receptors in human prostatic tissue.", "content": "A microassay utilizing R 1881 (methyltrienolone) has been developed for the measurement of androgen receptor sites in the cytosol and nuclear extract of human prostatic tissue. Binding of R 1881 to the progesterone binding molecule in cytosol was eliminated by the addition of triamcinolone acetonide. Utilizing a six tube, single point assay, the number of binding sites estimated in nuclear extract averaged 95% of the number measured by a full 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number estimated by the microassay in cytosol averaged 91%. When the single point assay was applied to needle biopsy specimens (200 mg of tissue), the estimated number of binding sites in nuclei averageed 83% of the number measured in bulk tissue (2 grams) utilizing a 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number in cytosol estimated by the microassay on needle biopsy specimens averaged 73%. It is hoped that this technique may be useful in correlating receptor content with hormonal responsiveness in men with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.", "contents": "A microassay for the measurement of androgen receptors in human prostatic tissue. A microassay utilizing R 1881 (methyltrienolone) has been developed for the measurement of androgen receptor sites in the cytosol and nuclear extract of human prostatic tissue. Binding of R 1881 to the progesterone binding molecule in cytosol was eliminated by the addition of triamcinolone acetonide. Utilizing a six tube, single point assay, the number of binding sites estimated in nuclear extract averaged 95% of the number measured by a full 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number estimated by the microassay in cytosol averaged 91%. When the single point assay was applied to needle biopsy specimens (200 mg of tissue), the estimated number of binding sites in nuclei averageed 83% of the number measured in bulk tissue (2 grams) utilizing a 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number in cytosol estimated by the microassay on needle biopsy specimens averaged 73%. It is hoped that this technique may be useful in correlating receptor content with hormonal responsiveness in men with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.", "PMID": 442131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5514", "title": "Binding properties of testosterone receptors in the hypothalamic-preoptic area of the adult male mouse brain.", "content": "This study reports the specificity, kinetics and thermodynamics of the binding of tritiated testosterone to specific receptors in the cytosol of the hypothalamic-preoptic area of the adult male mouse brain. Values for the kinetic is parametrs KA, KD, ka, kd and the apparent free energy (delta GOoc) are reported. The specificity of these receptors was investigated by LH-20 chromatography and sucrose-gradient centrifugation. Differences inreceptor specificity between the mouse and that reported for the rat are described. The effects of the antiandrogens, cyproterone acetate and BOMT, and the anti-estrogens MER-25 and clomiphene citrate on the binding of tritiated testosterone to specific 8S receptors are also reported. The effect of these steroid receptor antagonists on testosterone binding is discussed in relation to the current theory on the mechanism by which androgens influence brain function.", "contents": "Binding properties of testosterone receptors in the hypothalamic-preoptic area of the adult male mouse brain. This study reports the specificity, kinetics and thermodynamics of the binding of tritiated testosterone to specific receptors in the cytosol of the hypothalamic-preoptic area of the adult male mouse brain. Values for the kinetic is parametrs KA, KD, ka, kd and the apparent free energy (delta GOoc) are reported. The specificity of these receptors was investigated by LH-20 chromatography and sucrose-gradient centrifugation. Differences inreceptor specificity between the mouse and that reported for the rat are described. The effects of the antiandrogens, cyproterone acetate and BOMT, and the anti-estrogens MER-25 and clomiphene citrate on the binding of tritiated testosterone to specific 8S receptors are also reported. The effect of these steroid receptor antagonists on testosterone binding is discussed in relation to the current theory on the mechanism by which androgens influence brain function.", "PMID": 442132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5515", "title": "Novel epimerization of steroidal allylic alcohols.", "content": "Epimerization of 4-pregnene-3 beta,20 alpha-diol into 4-pregnene-3 alpha,20 alpha-diol was achieved under the mild condition of an acidic medium at room temperature. This reaction was favorable for synthesis of 4-pregnene-3 alpha,20 alpha-diol in better yield, after chemical reduction of 20 alpha-hydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one with metal hydrides, which resulted in predominant production of 4-pregnene-3 beta,20 alpha-diol. The by-product which was formed more by raising the temperature was identified as 3,5-pregnadien-20 alpha-ol. This method was also applicable for epimerization of other delta 4-3 beta-hydroxysteroids.", "contents": "Novel epimerization of steroidal allylic alcohols. Epimerization of 4-pregnene-3 beta,20 alpha-diol into 4-pregnene-3 alpha,20 alpha-diol was achieved under the mild condition of an acidic medium at room temperature. This reaction was favorable for synthesis of 4-pregnene-3 alpha,20 alpha-diol in better yield, after chemical reduction of 20 alpha-hydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one with metal hydrides, which resulted in predominant production of 4-pregnene-3 beta,20 alpha-diol. The by-product which was formed more by raising the temperature was identified as 3,5-pregnadien-20 alpha-ol. This method was also applicable for epimerization of other delta 4-3 beta-hydroxysteroids.", "PMID": 442133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5516", "title": "Estradiol 17 beta-dehydrogenase and estradiol binding in human mammary tumors.", "content": "The metabolism of estradiol was studied in 31 human breast carcinoma in vitro. All 16 estrogen-receptor-poor tumors transformed estradiol to estrone with percent conversions ranging from 11.4 to 95 except for one poorly differentiated tumor where 0.5% conversion to estrone was observed. On the contrary, only 3 out of 15 estrogen-receptor-rich tumors showed higher than 10% conversion of estradiol to estrone (p = 0.001). There is indication that the enzymatic activity in receptor-poor tumors steadily decreases in premenopausal patients as they approach menopausal age, whereas, the activity steadily increases in post-menopausal patients as the duration of menopause lengthens.", "contents": "Estradiol 17 beta-dehydrogenase and estradiol binding in human mammary tumors. The metabolism of estradiol was studied in 31 human breast carcinoma in vitro. All 16 estrogen-receptor-poor tumors transformed estradiol to estrone with percent conversions ranging from 11.4 to 95 except for one poorly differentiated tumor where 0.5% conversion to estrone was observed. On the contrary, only 3 out of 15 estrogen-receptor-rich tumors showed higher than 10% conversion of estradiol to estrone (p = 0.001). There is indication that the enzymatic activity in receptor-poor tumors steadily decreases in premenopausal patients as they approach menopausal age, whereas, the activity steadily increases in post-menopausal patients as the duration of menopause lengthens.", "PMID": 442134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5517", "title": "Failure of thiopental to modify global anoxic injury.", "content": "To corroborate thiopental protection from cerebral anoxia after cardiopulmonary arrest, 23 sedated, curarized, adult dogs were asphyxiated by plugging the endotracheal tube. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was started 7 minutes after electrocortical silence. Twelve animals received no other treatment (controls), 10 regained consciousness and spontaneous respirations, but remained decerebrate, blind, unable to drink or feed. Two dogs returned to a normal neurologic state. Ten dogs were treated with thiopental after CPR, 7 received 15 mg/kg the first minute, followed by 23 mg/kg over 1 hour; 3 received 60 mg/kg in the first 3 minutes, followed by 30 mg/kg over 1 hour. Except for 1 dog in the low-dose group that recovered neurologically, thiopental-treated dogs showed no neurological or survival improvement over the controls.", "contents": "Failure of thiopental to modify global anoxic injury. To corroborate thiopental protection from cerebral anoxia after cardiopulmonary arrest, 23 sedated, curarized, adult dogs were asphyxiated by plugging the endotracheal tube. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was started 7 minutes after electrocortical silence. Twelve animals received no other treatment (controls), 10 regained consciousness and spontaneous respirations, but remained decerebrate, blind, unable to drink or feed. Two dogs returned to a normal neurologic state. Ten dogs were treated with thiopental after CPR, 7 received 15 mg/kg the first minute, followed by 23 mg/kg over 1 hour; 3 received 60 mg/kg in the first 3 minutes, followed by 30 mg/kg over 1 hour. Except for 1 dog in the low-dose group that recovered neurologically, thiopental-treated dogs showed no neurological or survival improvement over the controls.", "PMID": 442137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5518", "title": "Physostigmine-induced cerebral protection against hypoxia.", "content": "Physostigmine, at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg, was tested for effect on the survival of mice exposed to 5% O2-95% N2. Some treated animals survived for one hour under the hypoxic atmosphere (2 out of 14 at 0.1 mg/kg and 8 out of 28 at 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg), an event never observed in untreated controls. The physostigmine-treated animals that died before the hour showed a dose-related increase in survival time from 4.3 min (untreated controls) to 27.6 min (0.3 mg/kg physostigmine). The effect of physostigmine may be related to its reported ability to increase cerebral blood flow and decrease cerebral oxygen consumption", "contents": "Physostigmine-induced cerebral protection against hypoxia. Physostigmine, at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg, was tested for effect on the survival of mice exposed to 5% O2-95% N2. Some treated animals survived for one hour under the hypoxic atmosphere (2 out of 14 at 0.1 mg/kg and 8 out of 28 at 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg), an event never observed in untreated controls. The physostigmine-treated animals that died before the hour showed a dose-related increase in survival time from 4.3 min (untreated controls) to 27.6 min (0.3 mg/kg physostigmine). The effect of physostigmine may be related to its reported ability to increase cerebral blood flow and decrease cerebral oxygen consumption", "PMID": 442138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5519", "title": "Cervical carotid aneurysm presenting as recurrent cerebral ischemia with head turning.", "content": "Extracranial carotid artery aneurysms are uncommon lesions with protean manifestations. This report describes a patient in whom the presenting symptom of a right carotid aneurysm was recurrent right hemisphere ischemic attacks when he turned his head to the left. The angiographic and operative findings explained the mechanism(s) of his symptoms. The importance of such symptoms is that they should suggest a mechanical etiology and that the probability of a surgically correctable lesion exists. Arteriography is the only reliable means of making a definitive diagnosis and should be considered early in the evaluation.", "contents": "Cervical carotid aneurysm presenting as recurrent cerebral ischemia with head turning. Extracranial carotid artery aneurysms are uncommon lesions with protean manifestations. This report describes a patient in whom the presenting symptom of a right carotid aneurysm was recurrent right hemisphere ischemic attacks when he turned his head to the left. The angiographic and operative findings explained the mechanism(s) of his symptoms. The importance of such symptoms is that they should suggest a mechanical etiology and that the probability of a surgically correctable lesion exists. Arteriography is the only reliable means of making a definitive diagnosis and should be considered early in the evaluation.", "PMID": 442139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5520", "title": "Protection from cerebral ischemia by a new imidazole derivative (Y-9179) and pentobarbital. A comparative study in chronic middle cerebral artery occlusion in cats.", "content": "For the purpose of investigating the protective action against cerebral ischemia by a new imidazole derivative (Y-9179) and pentobarbital, regional cerebral ischemia was produced in 53 cats by permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) via the transorbital approach. In 20 cats, the clips were applied at the origin of the right MCA whereas in the remaining 33 they were applied laterally. The administration of Y-9179 (6.25 and 12.5 mg/kg/day), pentobarbital (25 mg/kg/day) and saline was started 30 min after MCA occlusion and continued for 3 days. The cats were observed for 7 days and then sacrificed. Since there was a remarkable difference in mortality between the medial (65%) and the lateral occlusion groups (15%), the evaluation of drug effects was based only on the results obtained with the lateral occlusion group. The brains were sliced at 4 fixed coronal planes, in which the ratios of the infarcted area in the 2 hemispheres were obtained by planimetry. A statistically significant decrease in the infarction rate was found both in Y-9179 and pentobarbital-treated groups compared to the control group. Since the CNS depressant action of Y-9179 is far less potent than that of pentobarbital, the present results indicate the potential usefulness of Y-9179 in the management of strokes.", "contents": "Protection from cerebral ischemia by a new imidazole derivative (Y-9179) and pentobarbital. A comparative study in chronic middle cerebral artery occlusion in cats. For the purpose of investigating the protective action against cerebral ischemia by a new imidazole derivative (Y-9179) and pentobarbital, regional cerebral ischemia was produced in 53 cats by permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) via the transorbital approach. In 20 cats, the clips were applied at the origin of the right MCA whereas in the remaining 33 they were applied laterally. The administration of Y-9179 (6.25 and 12.5 mg/kg/day), pentobarbital (25 mg/kg/day) and saline was started 30 min after MCA occlusion and continued for 3 days. The cats were observed for 7 days and then sacrificed. Since there was a remarkable difference in mortality between the medial (65%) and the lateral occlusion groups (15%), the evaluation of drug effects was based only on the results obtained with the lateral occlusion group. The brains were sliced at 4 fixed coronal planes, in which the ratios of the infarcted area in the 2 hemispheres were obtained by planimetry. A statistically significant decrease in the infarction rate was found both in Y-9179 and pentobarbital-treated groups compared to the control group. Since the CNS depressant action of Y-9179 is far less potent than that of pentobarbital, the present results indicate the potential usefulness of Y-9179 in the management of strokes.", "PMID": 442136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5521", "title": "Influences on family planning acceptance: an analysis of background and program factors in Malaysia.", "content": "Which factors have the greater influence on family planning performance: fixed background variables such as racial composition, urbanization, and mortality, which are affected by level of development, or program inputs such as assignment of personnel and location of clinics, which are subject to manipulation by administrators? An analysis of differences in family planning acceptance among 70 districts of Malaysia shows that two main program-manipulable variables--level of personnel deployment and accessibility of clinics--have the largest direct effect upon acceptance levels. Variations in background factors explain a smaller proportion.", "contents": "Influences on family planning acceptance: an analysis of background and program factors in Malaysia. Which factors have the greater influence on family planning performance: fixed background variables such as racial composition, urbanization, and mortality, which are affected by level of development, or program inputs such as assignment of personnel and location of clinics, which are subject to manipulation by administrators? An analysis of differences in family planning acceptance among 70 districts of Malaysia shows that two main program-manipulable variables--level of personnel deployment and accessibility of clinics--have the largest direct effect upon acceptance levels. Variations in background factors explain a smaller proportion.", "PMID": 442148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5522", "title": "Underlying family-size preferences and reproductive behavior.", "content": "Although about half the married women in a US survey said they wanted one or two children, underlying family-size preferences indicate a potential for many to have larger families. Using a measure of family-size preference that probes beyond single-valued statements, it is found that identical stated family-size desires or intentions may have different meanings for different people. Differences are systematically related to the stage in family building at which contraception begins, to current (or likelihood of future) use of effective methods, to the probability of continued childbearing, and to unwanted pregnancies.", "contents": "Underlying family-size preferences and reproductive behavior. Although about half the married women in a US survey said they wanted one or two children, underlying family-size preferences indicate a potential for many to have larger families. Using a measure of family-size preference that probes beyond single-valued statements, it is found that identical stated family-size desires or intentions may have different meanings for different people. Differences are systematically related to the stage in family building at which contraception begins, to current (or likelihood of future) use of effective methods, to the probability of continued childbearing, and to unwanted pregnancies.", "PMID": 442149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5523", "title": "New issues, new options: a management perspective on population and family planning.", "content": "As population problems increasingly are seen in the context of socioeconomic development and as programs to reduce fertility become more diversified and multisectoral, issues facing program managers are changing. In addressing today's challenges in the areas of population policy and development planning, family planning program design, and problem-solving mechanisms, a variety of options can be considered. No blanket prescriptions can be made, but familiarity with some of the alternative and an understanding of their political and administrative implications may be helpful to managers, not only of population programs but in related development field as well.", "contents": "New issues, new options: a management perspective on population and family planning. As population problems increasingly are seen in the context of socioeconomic development and as programs to reduce fertility become more diversified and multisectoral, issues facing program managers are changing. In addressing today's challenges in the areas of population policy and development planning, family planning program design, and problem-solving mechanisms, a variety of options can be considered. No blanket prescriptions can be made, but familiarity with some of the alternative and an understanding of their political and administrative implications may be helpful to managers, not only of population programs but in related development field as well.", "PMID": 442150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5524", "title": "Serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity in acute stroke.", "content": "Serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) activity was measured in 34 patients with acute cerebrovascular disease. The serum level of DBH activity showed its highest value soon after the onset of stroke and then gradually decreased over the next few days. After reaching its lowest level, the DBH activity again showed a slight increase. There was no direct relationship between serum DBH activity and total serum protein, or blood pressure. In 8 of 12 patients, DBH activity in the cerebral venous blood was higher than that in the arterial blood. These results suggest that rapid release of DBH into the circulating blood occurred after stroke, presumably from sympathetic nerve endings in the vessels or organs, including the brain.", "contents": "Serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity in acute stroke. Serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) activity was measured in 34 patients with acute cerebrovascular disease. The serum level of DBH activity showed its highest value soon after the onset of stroke and then gradually decreased over the next few days. After reaching its lowest level, the DBH activity again showed a slight increase. There was no direct relationship between serum DBH activity and total serum protein, or blood pressure. In 8 of 12 patients, DBH activity in the cerebral venous blood was higher than that in the arterial blood. These results suggest that rapid release of DBH into the circulating blood occurred after stroke, presumably from sympathetic nerve endings in the vessels or organs, including the brain.", "PMID": 442140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5525", "title": "Platelet thrombi in experimental cerebral infarction.", "content": "Cerebral infarction was produced in paralyzed, ventilated rats by a 30 min period of right common carotid artery occlusion combined with systemic hypoxia (Pao2 21-25 mm Hg). After 30 min the arterial clamp was removed and the animals were reoxygenated and allowed to survive for 1 min (6 animals), 30 min (12 animals), or 1 1/2 to 2 h (6 animals). The animals were reanesthetized and sacrificed by perfusion-fixation with paraformaldehyde-glutaraldehyde. Light and electron microscopy revealed ischemic cell change in neurons in the ipsilateral cerebral cortex, striatum and hippocampus. These changes were mild to moderate in the early post-ischemic period and severe in the post-ischemic period. Cerebral infarction was present in one of the 30 min survivors and in all of the 1 1/2 to 2 h survivors. Electron microscopy showed platelet thrombi in the infarcted brain in 3 of the 7 animals with infarcts, and in an area of very severe ischemic cell change in a fourth animal. They were not present in areas of brain showing only mild to moderate ischemic cell change. These findings showed that platelet thrombi form in association with cerebral infarcts and suggested that they are induced by tissue necrosis rather than by neuronal ischemic cell change alone.", "contents": "Platelet thrombi in experimental cerebral infarction. Cerebral infarction was produced in paralyzed, ventilated rats by a 30 min period of right common carotid artery occlusion combined with systemic hypoxia (Pao2 21-25 mm Hg). After 30 min the arterial clamp was removed and the animals were reoxygenated and allowed to survive for 1 min (6 animals), 30 min (12 animals), or 1 1/2 to 2 h (6 animals). The animals were reanesthetized and sacrificed by perfusion-fixation with paraformaldehyde-glutaraldehyde. Light and electron microscopy revealed ischemic cell change in neurons in the ipsilateral cerebral cortex, striatum and hippocampus. These changes were mild to moderate in the early post-ischemic period and severe in the post-ischemic period. Cerebral infarction was present in one of the 30 min survivors and in all of the 1 1/2 to 2 h survivors. Electron microscopy showed platelet thrombi in the infarcted brain in 3 of the 7 animals with infarcts, and in an area of very severe ischemic cell change in a fourth animal. They were not present in areas of brain showing only mild to moderate ischemic cell change. These findings showed that platelet thrombi form in association with cerebral infarcts and suggested that they are induced by tissue necrosis rather than by neuronal ischemic cell change alone.", "PMID": 442142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5526", "title": "Intracranial saccular aneurysm and moyamoya disease.", "content": "Moyamoya disease is a rare but well described entity which has been found in the angiographic investigation of subarachnoid hemorrhage, its most common symptom in adults. We present 4 patients in whom moyamoya disease and an intracranial saccular aneurysm were discovered. In 2 of the 3 patients suffering a hemorrhage, the aneurysm was the source of bleeding. Three of the aneurysms were located at the basilar artery bifurcation. We recommend a careful search for a concomitant aneurysm in all patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage in whom moyamoya disease is found. We believe these patients should be treated as though the aneurysm were the source of bleeding.", "contents": "Intracranial saccular aneurysm and moyamoya disease. Moyamoya disease is a rare but well described entity which has been found in the angiographic investigation of subarachnoid hemorrhage, its most common symptom in adults. We present 4 patients in whom moyamoya disease and an intracranial saccular aneurysm were discovered. In 2 of the 3 patients suffering a hemorrhage, the aneurysm was the source of bleeding. Three of the aneurysms were located at the basilar artery bifurcation. We recommend a careful search for a concomitant aneurysm in all patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage in whom moyamoya disease is found. We believe these patients should be treated as though the aneurysm were the source of bleeding.", "PMID": 442141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5527", "title": "Influence of sex on cerebral ischemia following bilateral carotid occlusion in spontaneously hypertensive rats: a metabolic study.", "content": "Cerebral lactate, pyruvate and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and acid-base balance were measured in male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) before, and 1, 3 and 5 hours after bilateral carotid occlusion. In male SHR, cerebral lactate and the lactate/pyruvate (L/P) ratio progressively increased after occlusion, while cerebral ATP decreased. In female SHR, an increase in lactate and the L/P ratio was less marked than in male SHR. Cerebral ATP remained unchanged 5 hours after occlusion. These data suggest that bilateral carotid artery occlusion may cause more pronounced ischemic changes in the brain in male SHR than in female SHR, resulting in a greater increase in lactate with a concomitant decrease in ATP in male SHR. Results suggest that female SHR are more resistant to cerebral ischemia following bilateral carotid occlusion than male SHR. Blood pressure and gonads in the susceptibility to cerebral ischemia are discussed.", "contents": "Influence of sex on cerebral ischemia following bilateral carotid occlusion in spontaneously hypertensive rats: a metabolic study. Cerebral lactate, pyruvate and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and acid-base balance were measured in male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) before, and 1, 3 and 5 hours after bilateral carotid occlusion. In male SHR, cerebral lactate and the lactate/pyruvate (L/P) ratio progressively increased after occlusion, while cerebral ATP decreased. In female SHR, an increase in lactate and the L/P ratio was less marked than in male SHR. Cerebral ATP remained unchanged 5 hours after occlusion. These data suggest that bilateral carotid artery occlusion may cause more pronounced ischemic changes in the brain in male SHR than in female SHR, resulting in a greater increase in lactate with a concomitant decrease in ATP in male SHR. Results suggest that female SHR are more resistant to cerebral ischemia following bilateral carotid occlusion than male SHR. Blood pressure and gonads in the susceptibility to cerebral ischemia are discussed.", "PMID": 442143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5528", "title": "Stroke-associated deaths in Washington county, Maryland, with special reference to water hardness.", "content": "Deaths associated with strokes from 1963 to 1975 among 36,860 adult residents of Washington County, Maryland, were studied in relation to the hardness of drinking water at home, assessed on the basis of 1,569 water samples taken during this period. There was no satisfactory evidence that water hardness was related to stroke mortality. Age was a strongly related factor. There was little or no association with sex, marital status, socio-economic status as reflected by education or housing, smoking history, or frequency of church attendance.", "contents": "Stroke-associated deaths in Washington county, Maryland, with special reference to water hardness. Deaths associated with strokes from 1963 to 1975 among 36,860 adult residents of Washington County, Maryland, were studied in relation to the hardness of drinking water at home, assessed on the basis of 1,569 water samples taken during this period. There was no satisfactory evidence that water hardness was related to stroke mortality. Age was a strongly related factor. There was little or no association with sex, marital status, socio-economic status as reflected by education or housing, smoking history, or frequency of church attendance.", "PMID": 442144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5529", "title": "Incidence of stroke in an African City: results from the Stroke Registry at Ibadan, Nigeria, 1973-1975.", "content": "Studies based on hospital populations reported from negro communities in several countries in Africa suggest that cerebrovascular disease (CBVD) shows increasing mortality and morbidity in Africans although 2 decades ago CBVD was believed to be uncommon. We report the first study in the African to determine the incidence of stroke in an urban area, Ibadan, Nigeria.", "contents": "Incidence of stroke in an African City: results from the Stroke Registry at Ibadan, Nigeria, 1973-1975. Studies based on hospital populations reported from negro communities in several countries in Africa suggest that cerebrovascular disease (CBVD) shows increasing mortality and morbidity in Africans although 2 decades ago CBVD was believed to be uncommon. We report the first study in the African to determine the incidence of stroke in an urban area, Ibadan, Nigeria.", "PMID": 442145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5530", "title": "The problem of emesis during oral glucose-electrolytes therapy given from the onset of severe cholera.", "content": "In an attempt to obviate the need for intravenous fluids by preventing dehydration, 57 adult volunteers who experienced induced clinical cholera during a vaccine development programme were treated from the onset of diarrhoea with oral glucose-electrolytes therapy. 44 individuals with mild to moderately profuse diarrhoea (less than 8 L. total volume) were maintained in normal water and electrolyte balance with oral therapy alone. 13 individuals with severe diarrhoea (greater than 8 L. total volume) could not be maintained in balance with oral therapy alone, due chiefly to emesis during the first day of illness. Emesis occurred in the absence of significant dehydration or acidosis. Since emesis precludes effective early oral therapy in severe cases, domiciliary oral therapy is unlikely to eliminate cholera mortality. Rural diarrhoea treatment centres using oral therapy with limited amounts of intravenous fluids when needed, could reduce case fatality from cholera and related diarrhoeas virtually to zero with least expense.", "contents": "The problem of emesis during oral glucose-electrolytes therapy given from the onset of severe cholera. In an attempt to obviate the need for intravenous fluids by preventing dehydration, 57 adult volunteers who experienced induced clinical cholera during a vaccine development programme were treated from the onset of diarrhoea with oral glucose-electrolytes therapy. 44 individuals with mild to moderately profuse diarrhoea (less than 8 L. total volume) were maintained in normal water and electrolyte balance with oral therapy alone. 13 individuals with severe diarrhoea (greater than 8 L. total volume) could not be maintained in balance with oral therapy alone, due chiefly to emesis during the first day of illness. Emesis occurred in the absence of significant dehydration or acidosis. Since emesis precludes effective early oral therapy in severe cases, domiciliary oral therapy is unlikely to eliminate cholera mortality. Rural diarrhoea treatment centres using oral therapy with limited amounts of intravenous fluids when needed, could reduce case fatality from cholera and related diarrhoeas virtually to zero with least expense.", "PMID": 442166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5531", "title": "Dengue in the Caribbean: virus isolation in a mosquito (Aedes pseudoscutellaris) cell line.", "content": "During outbreaks of dengue fever in the Caribbean in 1977 and 1978 a continuous cell line derived from Aedes pseudoscutellaris was successfully used for the isolation of dengue virus strains from acute human sera. 238 strains were isolated and culture fluid was successfully used as antigen for the identification of several strains. The isolates all produced a marked syncytial cytopathic effect often visible as early as four days after inoculation. The method was successfully employed in the field where, because of their low optimal incubation temperature, the cells suffered no ill effects under ambient conditions. The isolation method was found to be much more sensitive than conventional mouse inoculation.", "contents": "Dengue in the Caribbean: virus isolation in a mosquito (Aedes pseudoscutellaris) cell line. During outbreaks of dengue fever in the Caribbean in 1977 and 1978 a continuous cell line derived from Aedes pseudoscutellaris was successfully used for the isolation of dengue virus strains from acute human sera. 238 strains were isolated and culture fluid was successfully used as antigen for the identification of several strains. The isolates all produced a marked syncytial cytopathic effect often visible as early as four days after inoculation. The method was successfully employed in the field where, because of their low optimal incubation temperature, the cells suffered no ill effects under ambient conditions. The isolation method was found to be much more sensitive than conventional mouse inoculation.", "PMID": 442177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5532", "title": "Immunoglobulin levels in Nigerian cord blood sera.", "content": "We have quantified the levels of IgG, IgA and IgM in Nigerian cord blood samples during the dry and the wet seasons. Almost all the samples collected during both seasons had detectable levels of IgG and IgM, while IgA was detected in 71% of those collected in the rainy season and in only 45% of those collected during the dry season. We observed seasonal variations in the levels of each of these immunoglobulins but the variations were not consistent for all three immunoglobulin classes. This suggests that the levels of each immunoglobulin class in the cord blood is probably controlled by different antigenic factors in our environment. The mean values for all three immunoglobulin classes were raised in all our samples above those of UK cord blood samples. This is consistent with earlier reports for samples collected in the tropics. In the paired cord/maternal immunoglobulin estimations, 75% of cord sera had higher levels of IgG than their corresponding maternal samples, suggesting either active transfer of the immunoglobulin across the placenta or increased rate of synthesis or decreased rate of catabolism in utero.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin levels in Nigerian cord blood sera. We have quantified the levels of IgG, IgA and IgM in Nigerian cord blood samples during the dry and the wet seasons. Almost all the samples collected during both seasons had detectable levels of IgG and IgM, while IgA was detected in 71% of those collected in the rainy season and in only 45% of those collected during the dry season. We observed seasonal variations in the levels of each of these immunoglobulins but the variations were not consistent for all three immunoglobulin classes. This suggests that the levels of each immunoglobulin class in the cord blood is probably controlled by different antigenic factors in our environment. The mean values for all three immunoglobulin classes were raised in all our samples above those of UK cord blood samples. This is consistent with earlier reports for samples collected in the tropics. In the paired cord/maternal immunoglobulin estimations, 75% of cord sera had higher levels of IgG than their corresponding maternal samples, suggesting either active transfer of the immunoglobulin across the placenta or increased rate of synthesis or decreased rate of catabolism in utero.", "PMID": 442178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5533", "title": "Immunity of cholera in man: relative role of antibacterial versus antitoxic immunity.", "content": "Purified cholera toxoid is antigenic when given enterally and orally. Purified toxoid fails to provide protection against experimental challenge. Clinical cholera confers formidable protection against homologous or heterologous rechallenge. Failure to culture vibrios from intestinal fluid or stool of re-challenge volunteers suggests that the predominant immune mechanism is antibacterial rather than antitoxic.", "contents": "Immunity of cholera in man: relative role of antibacterial versus antitoxic immunity. Purified cholera toxoid is antigenic when given enterally and orally. Purified toxoid fails to provide protection against experimental challenge. Clinical cholera confers formidable protection against homologous or heterologous rechallenge. Failure to culture vibrios from intestinal fluid or stool of re-challenge volunteers suggests that the predominant immune mechanism is antibacterial rather than antitoxic.", "PMID": 442179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5534", "title": "Factors affecting the acquisition of resistance against Schistosoma mansoni in the mouse: III. The failure of primary infections with cercariae of one sex to induce resistance to reinfection.", "content": "Mice which were given a primary infection consisting of male or female Schistosoma mansoni cercariae alone failed to acquire the same degree of resistance against homologous challenge as did mice with a bisexual primary infection. The degree of resistance acquired by \"single-sex\"-infected mice was not augmented either by increasing the number of cercariae administered in the primary infection, or by increasing the interval between primary infection and challenge, or by injection of S. mansoni eggs. The results are discussed in relation to previous observations on the capacity of \"single-sex\" schistosome infections to induce resistance.", "contents": "Factors affecting the acquisition of resistance against Schistosoma mansoni in the mouse: III. The failure of primary infections with cercariae of one sex to induce resistance to reinfection. Mice which were given a primary infection consisting of male or female Schistosoma mansoni cercariae alone failed to acquire the same degree of resistance against homologous challenge as did mice with a bisexual primary infection. The degree of resistance acquired by \"single-sex\"-infected mice was not augmented either by increasing the number of cercariae administered in the primary infection, or by increasing the interval between primary infection and challenge, or by injection of S. mansoni eggs. The results are discussed in relation to previous observations on the capacity of \"single-sex\" schistosome infections to induce resistance.", "PMID": 442181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5535", "title": "Sugar absorption by the mouse small intestine following infection with Schistosoma mansoni.", "content": "The effect of acute schistosomiasis on the structure and function of the mouse small intestine has been examined. Whole loops of small intestine from normal mice, and mice seven weeks post-infection were incubated in an in vitro perfusion apparatus. The transport of glucose, 3-0-methylglucose, sorbitol and fluid were all markedly impaired in loops from the infected animals. Kinetic analysis of the data for glucose transport indicated that schistosome infection brought about a reduction in the total number, but not the affinity, of the absorptive sites for glucose. Under the scanning electron microscope, villi from normal mice were tall and erect, with intact surfaces devoid of mucus, whereas the villi from the infected animals were partially covered with strands of mucus and appeared swollen and eroded, with lesions around their apices.", "contents": "Sugar absorption by the mouse small intestine following infection with Schistosoma mansoni. The effect of acute schistosomiasis on the structure and function of the mouse small intestine has been examined. Whole loops of small intestine from normal mice, and mice seven weeks post-infection were incubated in an in vitro perfusion apparatus. The transport of glucose, 3-0-methylglucose, sorbitol and fluid were all markedly impaired in loops from the infected animals. Kinetic analysis of the data for glucose transport indicated that schistosome infection brought about a reduction in the total number, but not the affinity, of the absorptive sites for glucose. Under the scanning electron microscope, villi from normal mice were tall and erect, with intact surfaces devoid of mucus, whereas the villi from the infected animals were partially covered with strands of mucus and appeared swollen and eroded, with lesions around their apices.", "PMID": 442182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5536", "title": "Kala-azar in north-western India: a study of 24 patients.", "content": "Twenty-four sporadic cases of kala-azar diagnosed over an 11-year period in a referral medical centre in north-western India are reported. Most of the patients were residents of non-endemic areas or where endemicity was low. Certain unusual clinical and laboratory features were seen in some of the cases, namely, lymphadenopathy, nasopharyngeal growth, acute and chronic hepatic involvement and portal hypertension. Awareness of the occurrence of the disease and of its protean modes of presentation was found to be an important factor in early diagnosis.", "contents": "Kala-azar in north-western India: a study of 24 patients. Twenty-four sporadic cases of kala-azar diagnosed over an 11-year period in a referral medical centre in north-western India are reported. Most of the patients were residents of non-endemic areas or where endemicity was low. Certain unusual clinical and laboratory features were seen in some of the cases, namely, lymphadenopathy, nasopharyngeal growth, acute and chronic hepatic involvement and portal hypertension. Awareness of the occurrence of the disease and of its protean modes of presentation was found to be an important factor in early diagnosis.", "PMID": 442183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5537", "title": "Severe ulcerative herpes of mouth and eye following measles.", "content": "Malnourished children in the north of Nigeria who had had a severe attack of measles were prone to deep ulcers of the mouth and eyes. Herpes simplex virus was isolated from 17 of 25 of the mouth ulcers which were erosive, slow to heal and caused much suffering and loss of weight. Herpes virus was also identified, either by immunofluorescent staining or viral culture, in the corneal scrapings of the eye ulcers from 16 of 34 children. These ulcers healed slowly in two to six weeks leaving damaging scars which impaired vision and caused blindness in some cases. It is suggested that measles leads to profound depression of cell mediated immunity in malnourished children with the consequence that secondary herpes simplex infections become abnormally severe and erosive.", "contents": "Severe ulcerative herpes of mouth and eye following measles. Malnourished children in the north of Nigeria who had had a severe attack of measles were prone to deep ulcers of the mouth and eyes. Herpes simplex virus was isolated from 17 of 25 of the mouth ulcers which were erosive, slow to heal and caused much suffering and loss of weight. Herpes virus was also identified, either by immunofluorescent staining or viral culture, in the corneal scrapings of the eye ulcers from 16 of 34 children. These ulcers healed slowly in two to six weeks leaving damaging scars which impaired vision and caused blindness in some cases. It is suggested that measles leads to profound depression of cell mediated immunity in malnourished children with the consequence that secondary herpes simplex infections become abnormally severe and erosive.", "PMID": 442184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5538", "title": "An evaluation of nutrition centre effectiveness by measurement of younger siblings.", "content": "Thirty children were measured when they entered nutrition centres. Their younger siblings were later measured at the same age. Over the same period, a matched group of control children and their siblings were measured. The younger siblings of Centre participants showed the same growth patterns as the younger siblings of control children. Centre teaching had evidently not affected the way mothers fed their younger children, and thus it had no effect on their growth.", "contents": "An evaluation of nutrition centre effectiveness by measurement of younger siblings. Thirty children were measured when they entered nutrition centres. Their younger siblings were later measured at the same age. Over the same period, a matched group of control children and their siblings were measured. The younger siblings of Centre participants showed the same growth patterns as the younger siblings of control children. Centre teaching had evidently not affected the way mothers fed their younger children, and thus it had no effect on their growth.", "PMID": 442185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5539", "title": "The significance of proteinuria and haematuria in Schistosoma haematobium infection.", "content": "The intensity and prevalence of proteinuria and haematuria were studied with urinanalysis reagent strips in a Gambian community in which the intensity of infection with Schistosoma haematobium was high. The level of proteinuria present was shown to be related to the intensity of infection. Follow-up for 12 months showed that infected subjects with heavy proteinuria had a good prognosis. These findings suggest that the urinary protein in such subjects is likely to originate from lesions in the bladder and ureters and that advanced glomerular pathology is probably rare. The relationship of the levels of proteinuria and haematuria to the egg count suggests they may be parameters which could have value as indications for chemotherapy. Detailed study showed that the effect of treating all the subjects who had both 30 mg/100 ml or more of protein and at least a trace of haematuria would have been very similar to treating all those with an egg count of 200 ova/10 ml or more. Since urinalysis with reagent strips is very simple and rapid it could have a role in mass chemotherapy campaigns, particularly those aimed at the identification and treatment of heavily infected subjects.", "contents": "The significance of proteinuria and haematuria in Schistosoma haematobium infection. The intensity and prevalence of proteinuria and haematuria were studied with urinanalysis reagent strips in a Gambian community in which the intensity of infection with Schistosoma haematobium was high. The level of proteinuria present was shown to be related to the intensity of infection. Follow-up for 12 months showed that infected subjects with heavy proteinuria had a good prognosis. These findings suggest that the urinary protein in such subjects is likely to originate from lesions in the bladder and ureters and that advanced glomerular pathology is probably rare. The relationship of the levels of proteinuria and haematuria to the egg count suggests they may be parameters which could have value as indications for chemotherapy. Detailed study showed that the effect of treating all the subjects who had both 30 mg/100 ml or more of protein and at least a trace of haematuria would have been very similar to treating all those with an egg count of 200 ova/10 ml or more. Since urinalysis with reagent strips is very simple and rapid it could have a role in mass chemotherapy campaigns, particularly those aimed at the identification and treatment of heavily infected subjects.", "PMID": 442186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5540", "title": "Intestinal parameters in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni.", "content": "Intestinal involvement is very important in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni. Nevertheless intestinal parameters have not previously been used in assessing the severity of intestinal disease. The present observations demonstrate that in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice, the mean total egg count of the small intestine and the mean number of eggs per g in the small and the large intestine were higher than the corresponding egg counts in the liver. The increase in weight of the small intestines of infected compared with uninfected mice was greater than the increase in weight of the corresponding livers. The small intestines from infected mice were considerably shorter than those from uninfected mice. These findings argue for the small intestine as a valuable organ for pathophysiological studies in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni and simple parameters such as total egg count of the small intestine, the number of eggs per g tissue in small and large intestine and the weight and length of the small intestine, are recommended.", "contents": "Intestinal parameters in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni. Intestinal involvement is very important in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni. Nevertheless intestinal parameters have not previously been used in assessing the severity of intestinal disease. The present observations demonstrate that in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice, the mean total egg count of the small intestine and the mean number of eggs per g in the small and the large intestine were higher than the corresponding egg counts in the liver. The increase in weight of the small intestines of infected compared with uninfected mice was greater than the increase in weight of the corresponding livers. The small intestines from infected mice were considerably shorter than those from uninfected mice. These findings argue for the small intestine as a valuable organ for pathophysiological studies in acute murine schistosomiasis mansoni and simple parameters such as total egg count of the small intestine, the number of eggs per g tissue in small and large intestine and the weight and length of the small intestine, are recommended.", "PMID": 442187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5541", "title": "Infant foods as a potential source of diarrhoeal illness in rural West Africa.", "content": "It is common practice in rural areas of The Gambia to prepare infant foods in quantities which are sufficient to meet the needs of the day rather than one meal. These are then stored at ambient temperatures for periods up to 12 hours for feeding to the child on demand. The total viable counts and levels of Bacillus cereus, Clostridium welchii, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were determined in 294 infant foods samples from nought to eight hours after preparation. The presence of Salmonella was determined in 10 g samples of food. In the first hour after preparation the proportion of foods dangerously contaminated was high during the rainsy season, significantly more so than during the dry season. Foods not consumed fresh were very often hazardous and almost always so after 8 hours. This problem may be a causal factor in weanling diarrhoea which also shows marked seasonal variation in prevalence.", "contents": "Infant foods as a potential source of diarrhoeal illness in rural West Africa. It is common practice in rural areas of The Gambia to prepare infant foods in quantities which are sufficient to meet the needs of the day rather than one meal. These are then stored at ambient temperatures for periods up to 12 hours for feeding to the child on demand. The total viable counts and levels of Bacillus cereus, Clostridium welchii, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were determined in 294 infant foods samples from nought to eight hours after preparation. The presence of Salmonella was determined in 10 g samples of food. In the first hour after preparation the proportion of foods dangerously contaminated was high during the rainsy season, significantly more so than during the dry season. Foods not consumed fresh were very often hazardous and almost always so after 8 hours. This problem may be a causal factor in weanling diarrhoea which also shows marked seasonal variation in prevalence.", "PMID": 442188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5542", "title": "Functional characteristics of monocytes. II. Further observations on lymphocyte-monocyte collaboration in the response to phytomitogens.", "content": "Monocytes play a crucial role in the response of lymphocytes to phytomitogens. This role is evident during the very early events after exposure to the mitogen. Thus, significant lymphocyte transformation does occur when monocytes are removed from the culture within a few hours after exposure to mitogen, and the presence of monocytes after the initial period is no longer necessary. Monocytes appear to be required for the early increase in protein synthesis and burst in RNA synthesis following exposure to the mitogen. Monocytes may help in lymphocyte responses partly by longer range, by way of release of soluble humoral factors into culture supernatant fluids. Temperature dependence of the effect of pulse exposure of lymphocytes to these supernatants raises the possibility that membrane receptors on these cells to humoral factors released by monocytes may exist. Moncytes do not appear to act primarily by preserving the viability of lymphocytes in culture.", "contents": "Functional characteristics of monocytes. II. Further observations on lymphocyte-monocyte collaboration in the response to phytomitogens. Monocytes play a crucial role in the response of lymphocytes to phytomitogens. This role is evident during the very early events after exposure to the mitogen. Thus, significant lymphocyte transformation does occur when monocytes are removed from the culture within a few hours after exposure to mitogen, and the presence of monocytes after the initial period is no longer necessary. Monocytes appear to be required for the early increase in protein synthesis and burst in RNA synthesis following exposure to the mitogen. Monocytes may help in lymphocyte responses partly by longer range, by way of release of soluble humoral factors into culture supernatant fluids. Temperature dependence of the effect of pulse exposure of lymphocytes to these supernatants raises the possibility that membrane receptors on these cells to humoral factors released by monocytes may exist. Moncytes do not appear to act primarily by preserving the viability of lymphocytes in culture.", "PMID": 442190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5543", "title": "Kaposi's sarcoma in organ transplant recipients: report of 20 cases.", "content": "There is an increased incidence of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in organ transplant recipients in whom it comprises more than 3% of all de novo neoplasms. Any such patient who develops reddish blue macules or plaques in the skin or oropharyngeal mucosa, or has apparently infected granulomas that fail to heal, should be suspected of having KS. In 45% of the patients, the internal viscera are involved. This variety has a bad prognosis. Apart from conventional treatment with surgical excision, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, cessation, reduction, or modification of immunosuppressive therapy produces gratifying results in a significant number of patients.", "contents": "Kaposi's sarcoma in organ transplant recipients: report of 20 cases. There is an increased incidence of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in organ transplant recipients in whom it comprises more than 3% of all de novo neoplasms. Any such patient who develops reddish blue macules or plaques in the skin or oropharyngeal mucosa, or has apparently infected granulomas that fail to heal, should be suspected of having KS. In 45% of the patients, the internal viscera are involved. This variety has a bad prognosis. Apart from conventional treatment with surgical excision, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, cessation, reduction, or modification of immunosuppressive therapy produces gratifying results in a significant number of patients.", "PMID": 442191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5544", "title": "Adenosine triphosphate regeneration and function in the rat kidney following warm ischaemia.", "content": "Tissue levels of adonosine triphosphate (ATP) have been measured in rat kidneys following periods of warm ischaemia: (1) immediately after the ischaemic period and (2) after the kidney had been reperfused with blood for 10 min. ATP levels at the end of the period of ischaemia are similar for ischaemic periods of 10 to 60 min and give no indication of the kidneys subsequent functional ability. The amount of ATP regenerated in 10 min of reperfusion correlates both with the duration of the period of ischaemia and with the subsequent functional ability of the kidney.", "contents": "Adenosine triphosphate regeneration and function in the rat kidney following warm ischaemia. Tissue levels of adonosine triphosphate (ATP) have been measured in rat kidneys following periods of warm ischaemia: (1) immediately after the ischaemic period and (2) after the kidney had been reperfused with blood for 10 min. ATP levels at the end of the period of ischaemia are similar for ischaemic periods of 10 to 60 min and give no indication of the kidneys subsequent functional ability. The amount of ATP regenerated in 10 min of reperfusion correlates both with the duration of the period of ischaemia and with the subsequent functional ability of the kidney.", "PMID": 442192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5545", "title": "Genetics of F1 hybrid susceptibility to myeloma grafts.", "content": "The genetics of hybrid susceptibility of parental myeloma transplants in histocompatible F1 hybrids was investigated. Various inbred mouse strains and their descendant congenic lines were crossed with BALB/C mice to produce appropriate F1 hybrids. Genetic inferences were drawn from the comparison of the frequencies of tumor graft takes among congenic combinations. Hybrids containing the C57BL/10 genetic background were less susceptible to myeloma transplants than were hybrids of other genotypes. Both H-2-associated and non-H-2-associated genetic factors played significant roles in determining host susceptibility to the transplants. The D end of the major histocompatibility complex did not play a predominant role in determining hybrid susceptibility in C57BL-derived F1 hybrids.", "contents": "Genetics of F1 hybrid susceptibility to myeloma grafts. The genetics of hybrid susceptibility of parental myeloma transplants in histocompatible F1 hybrids was investigated. Various inbred mouse strains and their descendant congenic lines were crossed with BALB/C mice to produce appropriate F1 hybrids. Genetic inferences were drawn from the comparison of the frequencies of tumor graft takes among congenic combinations. Hybrids containing the C57BL/10 genetic background were less susceptible to myeloma transplants than were hybrids of other genotypes. Both H-2-associated and non-H-2-associated genetic factors played significant roles in determining host susceptibility to the transplants. The D end of the major histocompatibility complex did not play a predominant role in determining hybrid susceptibility in C57BL-derived F1 hybrids.", "PMID": 442194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5546", "title": "Electron microscopical studies on onchocerciasis. III. The onchocerca-nodule.", "content": "Six onchocerca-nodules from five Liberian patients were examined by electron microscopy. The bulk of cells in the centre of the nodules consists of lymphocytes and macrophages. The lymphocytes can be observed in various stages of differentiation. A major part of the macrophages shows degenerative changes with decrease of lysosomes and increase of fatty vacuoles. Near the worms epithelioid cells and giant cells can be found. Other cells in the nodule include polymorphonuclear neutrophils, eosinophils, plasma cells, and mast cells. Adult Onchocerca volvulus show the basic nematode body plan. The cuticle is subdivided into cortex and two layers with differently arranged fibrillar structures. The characteristics of the hypodermal cells are best seen in the lateral chords, in the interchordal regions the hypodermis is flattened by a muscle layer. The intestine typically contains pigment granules, the cells of the epithelium have folds of their cell membranes forming a basal labyrinth. The uterus consists of two tubes in which the development of the microfilariae from the early embryonic forms to the mature stages is examined.", "contents": "Electron microscopical studies on onchocerciasis. III. The onchocerca-nodule. Six onchocerca-nodules from five Liberian patients were examined by electron microscopy. The bulk of cells in the centre of the nodules consists of lymphocytes and macrophages. The lymphocytes can be observed in various stages of differentiation. A major part of the macrophages shows degenerative changes with decrease of lysosomes and increase of fatty vacuoles. Near the worms epithelioid cells and giant cells can be found. Other cells in the nodule include polymorphonuclear neutrophils, eosinophils, plasma cells, and mast cells. Adult Onchocerca volvulus show the basic nematode body plan. The cuticle is subdivided into cortex and two layers with differently arranged fibrillar structures. The characteristics of the hypodermal cells are best seen in the lateral chords, in the interchordal regions the hypodermis is flattened by a muscle layer. The intestine typically contains pigment granules, the cells of the epithelium have folds of their cell membranes forming a basal labyrinth. The uterus consists of two tubes in which the development of the microfilariae from the early embryonic forms to the mature stages is examined.", "PMID": 442196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5547", "title": "Some observations on onchocerciasis including sowda in the Yemen Arab Republic.", "content": "A pilot study on onchocerciasis and sowda was carried out in the south-western region of the Yemen Arab Republic. Of 61 persons examined in eight villages 35 (= 57%) were found positive for microfilariae by the skin-snip method, 13 had typical manifestations of sowda, 17 had other onchocercal-suggestive skin lesions and five had subcutaneous nodules. A single larva of Simulium damnosum s.I. was collected in Wadi Barakani. Numerous larvae and pupae of S. ruficorne and S. hargreavesi were taken in fast-flowing streams in four localities. The examination of microfilariae and adult worms by scanning electron microscopy as well as the histochemical staining of microfilariae for the demonstration of acid phosphatase activity confirmed that the concerned filaria belongs to the species Onchocerca volvulus. No morphological differences could be detected between the smaller number of the examined worms from the Yemen and the extensive parasite material from Liberia, West Africa.", "contents": "Some observations on onchocerciasis including sowda in the Yemen Arab Republic. A pilot study on onchocerciasis and sowda was carried out in the south-western region of the Yemen Arab Republic. Of 61 persons examined in eight villages 35 (= 57%) were found positive for microfilariae by the skin-snip method, 13 had typical manifestations of sowda, 17 had other onchocercal-suggestive skin lesions and five had subcutaneous nodules. A single larva of Simulium damnosum s.I. was collected in Wadi Barakani. Numerous larvae and pupae of S. ruficorne and S. hargreavesi were taken in fast-flowing streams in four localities. The examination of microfilariae and adult worms by scanning electron microscopy as well as the histochemical staining of microfilariae for the demonstration of acid phosphatase activity confirmed that the concerned filaria belongs to the species Onchocerca volvulus. No morphological differences could be detected between the smaller number of the examined worms from the Yemen and the extensive parasite material from Liberia, West Africa.", "PMID": 442197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5548", "title": "The complement fixation test and African trypanosomiasis: I. Experimental infection and re-infection in cattle before and after treatment.", "content": "The complement fixation test was applied to assess antibody responses in cattle infected with T. brucei, T. congolense, and T. vivax which had been treated and re-infected. After the first infection, the specificity of the results was low in T. congolense, fair in T. brucei, and high in T. vivax infected animals. After re-infection with the same trypanosoma species as used for previous infections, the specificity of CF results was high in all cases. After a foregoing T. vivax infection, specific titres of T. congolense and to a lesser degree of T. brucei infections were frequently masked by residual T. vivax titres. After treatment of trypanosoma-infected cattle the fasted drop of CF antibody titres occurred in T. congolense cases, followed by T. brucei infections. T. vivax titres persisted over prolonged periods.", "contents": "The complement fixation test and African trypanosomiasis: I. Experimental infection and re-infection in cattle before and after treatment. The complement fixation test was applied to assess antibody responses in cattle infected with T. brucei, T. congolense, and T. vivax which had been treated and re-infected. After the first infection, the specificity of the results was low in T. congolense, fair in T. brucei, and high in T. vivax infected animals. After re-infection with the same trypanosoma species as used for previous infections, the specificity of CF results was high in all cases. After a foregoing T. vivax infection, specific titres of T. congolense and to a lesser degree of T. brucei infections were frequently masked by residual T. vivax titres. After treatment of trypanosoma-infected cattle the fasted drop of CF antibody titres occurred in T. congolense cases, followed by T. brucei infections. T. vivax titres persisted over prolonged periods.", "PMID": 442199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5549", "title": "Immunization against anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Part III. Evaluation of immunization under field conditions in the Cauca River Valley.", "content": "Bovine anaplasmosis and babesiosis constitute serious constraints to efficient cattle production in Colombia. Nine commercial ranches located in the Cauca River Valley were used to evaluate the applicability, safety and economics of the newly developed immunization technology to control these diseases under actual field conditions using the minimum infective doses techniques. A total of 432 calves, 6--8 months old, of different breeds were used in this experiment. Calves born and raised in nonendemic areas of Valle, vaccinated against anaplasmosis and babesiosis and then moved to the endemic zone had developed a high degree of resistance. None of them died or required treatment after field challenge. In comparison, non-vaccinated controls suffered severe clinical anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Eighteen percent dies and 85% required chemotherapy to survive. Calves born and raised in the endemic zones of Valle and vaccinated did not suffer clinical disease nor require treatment after field challenge. However, non-vaccinated controls had 2% mortality and 60% of them required treatment to survive under the same field conditions. The weight gains favored vaccinated animals. The results of this study indicate significant reductions in deaths and production losses of cattle and the economic benefits to the livestock producers in controlling tick-borne diseases by vaccination.", "contents": "Immunization against anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Part III. Evaluation of immunization under field conditions in the Cauca River Valley. Bovine anaplasmosis and babesiosis constitute serious constraints to efficient cattle production in Colombia. Nine commercial ranches located in the Cauca River Valley were used to evaluate the applicability, safety and economics of the newly developed immunization technology to control these diseases under actual field conditions using the minimum infective doses techniques. A total of 432 calves, 6--8 months old, of different breeds were used in this experiment. Calves born and raised in nonendemic areas of Valle, vaccinated against anaplasmosis and babesiosis and then moved to the endemic zone had developed a high degree of resistance. None of them died or required treatment after field challenge. In comparison, non-vaccinated controls suffered severe clinical anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Eighteen percent dies and 85% required chemotherapy to survive. Calves born and raised in the endemic zones of Valle and vaccinated did not suffer clinical disease nor require treatment after field challenge. However, non-vaccinated controls had 2% mortality and 60% of them required treatment to survive under the same field conditions. The weight gains favored vaccinated animals. The results of this study indicate significant reductions in deaths and production losses of cattle and the economic benefits to the livestock producers in controlling tick-borne diseases by vaccination.", "PMID": 442200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5550", "title": "Granuloma size in the liver of mice with Schistosoma haematobium infection and Schistosoma mansoni challenge.", "content": "Swiss albino mice have been infected with S. haematobium and challenged with S. mansoni. S. haematobium infection in the mouse runs a course more or less parallel to that of S. mansoni infection. Granuloma has reached a maximal size at 135 days post infection and has regressed thereafter. Suppression of S. mansoni granuloma was observed in mice previously infected with S. haematobium. This manifests the presence of cross immunization.", "contents": "Granuloma size in the liver of mice with Schistosoma haematobium infection and Schistosoma mansoni challenge. Swiss albino mice have been infected with S. haematobium and challenged with S. mansoni. S. haematobium infection in the mouse runs a course more or less parallel to that of S. mansoni infection. Granuloma has reached a maximal size at 135 days post infection and has regressed thereafter. Suppression of S. mansoni granuloma was observed in mice previously infected with S. haematobium. This manifests the presence of cross immunization.", "PMID": 442201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5551", "title": "Pentamidine in chemoimmunisation of cattle against Babesia bigemina infection.", "content": "A single dose of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg of Pentamidine led to clinical recovery of splenectomised calves infected with Babesia bigemina. On the other hand as much as 5 mg/kg administered during patency did not destroy the carrier state in intact calves. The fact that the sterilising dose was at least five times as great as that needed for clinical recovery makes Pentamidine a promising agent for chemoimmunisation against B. bigemina infection.", "contents": "Pentamidine in chemoimmunisation of cattle against Babesia bigemina infection. A single dose of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg of Pentamidine led to clinical recovery of splenectomised calves infected with Babesia bigemina. On the other hand as much as 5 mg/kg administered during patency did not destroy the carrier state in intact calves. The fact that the sterilising dose was at least five times as great as that needed for clinical recovery makes Pentamidine a promising agent for chemoimmunisation against B. bigemina infection.", "PMID": 442205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5552", "title": "An outbreak of tropical theileriosis in cattle in Afghanistan.", "content": "An outbreak of tropical theileriosis (T. annulata infection) is reported in artificial insemination Holstein bulls in Kabul (Afghanistan). The diagnostic work at the Central Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is described and the treatment given and results obtained by the Kabul Animal Health Clinic are reported. This case report constitutes the first account of the disease in Afghanistan where diagnostic confirmation has been made from material sent to internatinational reference centres.", "contents": "An outbreak of tropical theileriosis in cattle in Afghanistan. An outbreak of tropical theileriosis (T. annulata infection) is reported in artificial insemination Holstein bulls in Kabul (Afghanistan). The diagnostic work at the Central Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is described and the treatment given and results obtained by the Kabul Animal Health Clinic are reported. This case report constitutes the first account of the disease in Afghanistan where diagnostic confirmation has been made from material sent to internatinational reference centres.", "PMID": 442206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5553", "title": "[Electron microscopic study of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in dogs. II. Relationship between ultrastructural changes in the central nervous system and the severity of the course. Mechanism of allergic demyelination].", "content": "It is determined that in grave forms of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) demyelination and inflammatory infiltration are spread widely, whereas in easy forms only demyelination is observed. A conclusion is made that disturbances in the vascular permeability, activation of lysosomes and degeneration of synapses are of pathogenic value. Important role of a glia in phagocytizing myelin is emphasized. Significance of the role of immunological humoral factors and of biologic active substances in the pathogenesis of EAE is discussed.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic study of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in dogs. II. Relationship between ultrastructural changes in the central nervous system and the severity of the course. Mechanism of allergic demyelination]. It is determined that in grave forms of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) demyelination and inflammatory infiltration are spread widely, whereas in easy forms only demyelination is observed. A conclusion is made that disturbances in the vascular permeability, activation of lysosomes and degeneration of synapses are of pathogenic value. Important role of a glia in phagocytizing myelin is emphasized. Significance of the role of immunological humoral factors and of biologic active substances in the pathogenesis of EAE is discussed.", "PMID": 442202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5554", "title": "Bovine brucellosis in the southern regions of the Somali Democratic Republic.", "content": "For the first time a survey of the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in three regions of the Democratic Republic of Somalia has been carried out. Blood sera were tested by the SAT and CFT and milk samples by the MRT. An average prevalence rate of 9.5 per cent (SAT) and 12.0 per cent (MRT) was found. There was considerable differences between regions and the reasons for this are discussed.", "contents": "Bovine brucellosis in the southern regions of the Somali Democratic Republic. For the first time a survey of the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in three regions of the Democratic Republic of Somalia has been carried out. Blood sera were tested by the SAT and CFT and milk samples by the MRT. An average prevalence rate of 9.5 per cent (SAT) and 12.0 per cent (MRT) was found. There was considerable differences between regions and the reasons for this are discussed.", "PMID": 442209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5555", "title": "Newcastle disease in Cyprus: a review.", "content": "The first Newcastle disease epidemic in Cyprus was reported in 1949 to 1950 and between 1953 and 1959 there was a second. In November 1977 another Newcastle disease outbreak occurred. Measures implemented immediately were; quarantine of all foci of infection, destruction of diseased and in-contact birds disinfection of premises and island-wide (Government controlled) vaccination. Within a month the epidemic was brought under control. In all 47 outbreaks were recorded with the loss of about 35,000 birds. Only 2 commercial units were affected, the remaining outbreaks occurring in premises of back-yard poultry keepers. The virus was the Asiatic type.", "contents": "Newcastle disease in Cyprus: a review. The first Newcastle disease epidemic in Cyprus was reported in 1949 to 1950 and between 1953 and 1959 there was a second. In November 1977 another Newcastle disease outbreak occurred. Measures implemented immediately were; quarantine of all foci of infection, destruction of diseased and in-contact birds disinfection of premises and island-wide (Government controlled) vaccination. Within a month the epidemic was brought under control. In all 47 outbreaks were recorded with the loss of about 35,000 birds. Only 2 commercial units were affected, the remaining outbreaks occurring in premises of back-yard poultry keepers. The virus was the Asiatic type.", "PMID": 442211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5556", "title": "Cutaneous water loss and respiration rates of various breeds of sheep at high ambient temperatures.", "content": "The sweating and respiratory rates in rams of Rambouillet (R), Chokla (C), Malpura (M), R x C and R x M breed/breed crosses were recorded when housed in sheds or exposed to 20, 25, 30, 35 and 42 degrees C ambient temperatures in a climatic chamber. The sweating (cutaneous moisture) was higher (P less than 0.05) in Rambouillet and its crosses than the natives, the Malpura sheep producing the least sweat at all temperatures. There was no breed difference in the response of increase in sweating up to 35 degrees C but at 42 degrees C the Chokla showed a considerable increase. Sweating was more pronounced on the shoulder than on the mid-side region. Sweating and respiratory rates increased (P less than 0.05) with the increase in ambient temperature. The Rambouillet exhibited the highest increase in respiration rate at 25 degrees C and the trend continued up to 42 degrees C. The relationship between fleece characteristics, evaporative heat loss tolerance of sheep is dicussed.", "contents": "Cutaneous water loss and respiration rates of various breeds of sheep at high ambient temperatures. The sweating and respiratory rates in rams of Rambouillet (R), Chokla (C), Malpura (M), R x C and R x M breed/breed crosses were recorded when housed in sheds or exposed to 20, 25, 30, 35 and 42 degrees C ambient temperatures in a climatic chamber. The sweating (cutaneous moisture) was higher (P less than 0.05) in Rambouillet and its crosses than the natives, the Malpura sheep producing the least sweat at all temperatures. There was no breed difference in the response of increase in sweating up to 35 degrees C but at 42 degrees C the Chokla showed a considerable increase. Sweating was more pronounced on the shoulder than on the mid-side region. Sweating and respiratory rates increased (P less than 0.05) with the increase in ambient temperature. The Rambouillet exhibited the highest increase in respiration rate at 25 degrees C and the trend continued up to 42 degrees C. The relationship between fleece characteristics, evaporative heat loss tolerance of sheep is dicussed.", "PMID": 442213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5557", "title": "A survey of abattoir data in northern Nigeria.", "content": "A survey of the abattoirs in 10 selected towne in Nigeria showed that about 41.9 per cent of whole carcasses condemned between 1975 and 1977 were due to tuberculosis and 22.2 per cent to beef cysticercosis. Seventy per cent of organ condemnations, mainly of livers, were due to fascioliasis. Other major causes of organ condemnations were hydatid cysts, tuberculosis and pneumonia of various causes. An estimated 500 tonnes of meat valued at about 1.25 million Naira (US $1.8 million) are condemned each year throughout Nigeria. The use of abattoirs as monitoring stations in national animal disease eradication programmes is highlighted.", "contents": "A survey of abattoir data in northern Nigeria. A survey of the abattoirs in 10 selected towne in Nigeria showed that about 41.9 per cent of whole carcasses condemned between 1975 and 1977 were due to tuberculosis and 22.2 per cent to beef cysticercosis. Seventy per cent of organ condemnations, mainly of livers, were due to fascioliasis. Other major causes of organ condemnations were hydatid cysts, tuberculosis and pneumonia of various causes. An estimated 500 tonnes of meat valued at about 1.25 million Naira (US $1.8 million) are condemned each year throughout Nigeria. The use of abattoirs as monitoring stations in national animal disease eradication programmes is highlighted.", "PMID": 442214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5558", "title": "VP-16, cyclophosphamide, adriamycin and cis-platinum (V:CAP-I) in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung.", "content": "In an attempt to improve upon the 42% regression rate of the CAP-I regimen in patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung, VP-16 was added to that regimen. VP-16, as a single agent, had a response rate of 12.5% (3/24) In a similar group of patients. The new regimen, V:CAP-I, had a tumor regression rate of 35% (7/20) and an estimated median survival of 171 days. Hence, we were unable to conclude that the addition of VP-16 to the CAP-I regimen statistically improved the regression rate of the CAP-I regimen.", "contents": "VP-16, cyclophosphamide, adriamycin and cis-platinum (V:CAP-I) in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung. In an attempt to improve upon the 42% regression rate of the CAP-I regimen in patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung, VP-16 was added to that regimen. VP-16, as a single agent, had a response rate of 12.5% (3/24) In a similar group of patients. The new regimen, V:CAP-I, had a tumor regression rate of 35% (7/20) and an estimated median survival of 171 days. Hence, we were unable to conclude that the addition of VP-16 to the CAP-I regimen statistically improved the regression rate of the CAP-I regimen.", "PMID": 442215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5559", "title": "Basal-cell tumors of the lumbar skin after radiotherapy for arthrosis.", "content": "Twenty-three cases of basal-cell tumor of the skin arising in the lumbar-sacral region after repeated irradiations in anti-inflammatory doses for arthrosis are discussed. The involved cutaneous region had been submitted to a number of roentgenotherapy cycles, varying from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 10. The total dose absorbed at skin level varied between 14.4 and 72.0 Gy, administered over 2 to 6 years. Thirteen to 30 years (median, 19) had elapsed since the end of the irradiations. This observation compels a critical re-evaluation to be made concerning certain radiotherapy indications. The treatment of these lesions involves some problems: radiotherapy is made difficult by the coexistence of often serious dystrophic lesions on the surrounding skin, and surgery is often unsuccessful. The topic application of 5-fluorouracil ointment seems to achieve good results.", "contents": "Basal-cell tumors of the lumbar skin after radiotherapy for arthrosis. Twenty-three cases of basal-cell tumor of the skin arising in the lumbar-sacral region after repeated irradiations in anti-inflammatory doses for arthrosis are discussed. The involved cutaneous region had been submitted to a number of roentgenotherapy cycles, varying from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 10. The total dose absorbed at skin level varied between 14.4 and 72.0 Gy, administered over 2 to 6 years. Thirteen to 30 years (median, 19) had elapsed since the end of the irradiations. This observation compels a critical re-evaluation to be made concerning certain radiotherapy indications. The treatment of these lesions involves some problems: radiotherapy is made difficult by the coexistence of often serious dystrophic lesions on the surrounding skin, and surgery is often unsuccessful. The topic application of 5-fluorouracil ointment seems to achieve good results.", "PMID": 442216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5560", "title": "Biochemical and cytochemical effects of cytosine arabinoside (ARA C) and hydrocortisone on HeLa cells.", "content": "The biochemical and cytochemical effects of cytosine arabinoside (Ara C) and of hydrocortisone on HeLa cell in vitro have been studied. In cultures treated with Ara C, a relationship exists between the cytocidal effects of the drug and an increase in alkaline phosphatase. Although hydrocortisone had no influence on the proliferative rhythm, it induced an increase in alkaline phosphatase. Results obtained with the cytochemical technique were evaluated, particularly in relation to enzyme localization.", "contents": "Biochemical and cytochemical effects of cytosine arabinoside (ARA C) and hydrocortisone on HeLa cells. The biochemical and cytochemical effects of cytosine arabinoside (Ara C) and of hydrocortisone on HeLa cell in vitro have been studied. In cultures treated with Ara C, a relationship exists between the cytocidal effects of the drug and an increase in alkaline phosphatase. Although hydrocortisone had no influence on the proliferative rhythm, it induced an increase in alkaline phosphatase. Results obtained with the cytochemical technique were evaluated, particularly in relation to enzyme localization.", "PMID": 442217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5561", "title": "Clinical classification and survival in chronic lymphocyte leukemia.", "content": "Sixty-one consecutive patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) treated at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan from September 1962 to August 1976 were classified according to the staging system of Rai et al. (16). Analysis of this series showed the following median survival (in months) from diagnosis: stage 0-I, 73; stage II, 44; stage III-IV, 32. In 11 patients without peripheral palpable adenopathies, the lymphangiogram showed abnormal retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Therefore, the initial stage was changed from 0 to I in 5 cases. The median survival for the entire series was 50 months. Patients with \"indolent\" disease had a median survival of 52 months, while in patients with \"active\" CLL, the median survival was 32 months. Both sex and age were shown to be poor predictors of survival. Increased duration of survival was observed in patients with less compared to those with more than 30,000 lymphocytes/mm3 (66 versus 41 months). The method of staging proposed by Rai et al. and utilized to classify this series at the time of diagnosis was confirmed to be a reliable predictor for survival.", "contents": "Clinical classification and survival in chronic lymphocyte leukemia. Sixty-one consecutive patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) treated at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan from September 1962 to August 1976 were classified according to the staging system of Rai et al. (16). Analysis of this series showed the following median survival (in months) from diagnosis: stage 0-I, 73; stage II, 44; stage III-IV, 32. In 11 patients without peripheral palpable adenopathies, the lymphangiogram showed abnormal retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Therefore, the initial stage was changed from 0 to I in 5 cases. The median survival for the entire series was 50 months. Patients with \"indolent\" disease had a median survival of 52 months, while in patients with \"active\" CLL, the median survival was 32 months. Both sex and age were shown to be poor predictors of survival. Increased duration of survival was observed in patients with less compared to those with more than 30,000 lymphocytes/mm3 (66 versus 41 months). The method of staging proposed by Rai et al. and utilized to classify this series at the time of diagnosis was confirmed to be a reliable predictor for survival.", "PMID": 442218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5562", "title": "Restatement of lymphography in childhood: experience with 413 consecutive patients in ten years.", "content": "From January 1969 to June 1978, 413 children under 15 years of age underwent lymphography at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan. Successful lymphatic cannulation was accomplished in 97.7% (769/787) of the sites where it was attempted. No major or permanent complications were encountered. In those children undergoing biopsy of opacified lymph nodes, the lymphographic-histologic correlation was 94.5% (104/110). This study has shown that lymphography in childhood can be as readily performed as in the adult and that its diagnostic accuracy is acceptable. As in adults, it is useful in treatment planning, evaluating results of therapy, and detecting a recurrent tumor.", "contents": "Restatement of lymphography in childhood: experience with 413 consecutive patients in ten years. From January 1969 to June 1978, 413 children under 15 years of age underwent lymphography at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan. Successful lymphatic cannulation was accomplished in 97.7% (769/787) of the sites where it was attempted. No major or permanent complications were encountered. In those children undergoing biopsy of opacified lymph nodes, the lymphographic-histologic correlation was 94.5% (104/110). This study has shown that lymphography in childhood can be as readily performed as in the adult and that its diagnostic accuracy is acceptable. As in adults, it is useful in treatment planning, evaluating results of therapy, and detecting a recurrent tumor.", "PMID": 442219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5563", "title": "Axillary lymph node metastases from occult carcinoma of the breast.", "content": "From the case records of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan from 1956 to 1976, 49 cases of metastases in axillary lymph nodes from an occult carcinoma of the breast were selected. Forty-four patients underwent removal of the suspicious breast. In 11 patients no tumor was found at the pathologic examination. The survival of these patients was no different from the survival of those in whom the tumor was found. The 5-year survival of the total series was 87%, confirming that this type of presentation of breast cancer has a prognosis that is better than that generally reported for stage II carcinoma of the breast.", "contents": "Axillary lymph node metastases from occult carcinoma of the breast. From the case records of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan from 1956 to 1976, 49 cases of metastases in axillary lymph nodes from an occult carcinoma of the breast were selected. Forty-four patients underwent removal of the suspicious breast. In 11 patients no tumor was found at the pathologic examination. The survival of these patients was no different from the survival of those in whom the tumor was found. The 5-year survival of the total series was 87%, confirming that this type of presentation of breast cancer has a prognosis that is better than that generally reported for stage II carcinoma of the breast.", "PMID": 442221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5564", "title": "Concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin receptors in the ascitic fluid of rat hepatomas.", "content": "The presence of glycopeptide lectin receptors in the ascitic fluid of rats bearing Novikoff or AS-30D hepatoma was investigated. Macrosialoglycopeptides, resistant to pronase digestion, were partially purified from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50. A macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, isolated from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the Novikoff hepatoma, possessed potent concanavalin A (Con A) receptor activity. This fraction possessed higher Con A receptor activity than did the comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the AS-30D hepatoma; this obeservation is in agreement with the Con A-induced agglutination properties of these 2 hepatoma cell lines and with the Con A receptor activities of the glycopeptides released from the surface of the hepatoma cells by papain digestion. Rat blood serum contained a comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, which possessed weak Con A receptor activity. The macrosialoglycopeptide fractions from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats possessed wheat germ agglutinin receptor activity. However, this activity was also present in normal rat serum. These results suggest that glycopeptides present on the surface of Novikoff hepatoma cells are shed into the ascitic fluid and may be distinguished from components in normal serum by their Con A receptor activity.", "contents": "Concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin receptors in the ascitic fluid of rat hepatomas. The presence of glycopeptide lectin receptors in the ascitic fluid of rats bearing Novikoff or AS-30D hepatoma was investigated. Macrosialoglycopeptides, resistant to pronase digestion, were partially purified from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50. A macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, isolated from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the Novikoff hepatoma, possessed potent concanavalin A (Con A) receptor activity. This fraction possessed higher Con A receptor activity than did the comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the AS-30D hepatoma; this obeservation is in agreement with the Con A-induced agglutination properties of these 2 hepatoma cell lines and with the Con A receptor activities of the glycopeptides released from the surface of the hepatoma cells by papain digestion. Rat blood serum contained a comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, which possessed weak Con A receptor activity. The macrosialoglycopeptide fractions from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats possessed wheat germ agglutinin receptor activity. However, this activity was also present in normal rat serum. These results suggest that glycopeptides present on the surface of Novikoff hepatoma cells are shed into the ascitic fluid and may be distinguished from components in normal serum by their Con A receptor activity.", "PMID": 442222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5565", "title": "Hormonal study in patients developing amenorrhea during adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer.", "content": "The sera of 15 premenopausal women with operable breast cancer and who had developed amenorrhea during adjuvant chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide + methotrexate + fluorouracil were analyzed for the following hormones: 17-beta-estradiol, luteinizing hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone and prolactin. The blood levels did not differ significantly from those found in patients operated on for breast cancer and in spontaneous menopause (controls). These origins suggest that the amenorrhea induced by CMF chemotherapy is of ovarian origin.", "contents": "Hormonal study in patients developing amenorrhea during adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. The sera of 15 premenopausal women with operable breast cancer and who had developed amenorrhea during adjuvant chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide + methotrexate + fluorouracil were analyzed for the following hormones: 17-beta-estradiol, luteinizing hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone and prolactin. The blood levels did not differ significantly from those found in patients operated on for breast cancer and in spontaneous menopause (controls). These origins suggest that the amenorrhea induced by CMF chemotherapy is of ovarian origin.", "PMID": 442223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5566", "title": "Phase I trial with peptichemio.", "content": "Thirty-two patients with tumor progression, even after conventional cytostatic drug treatment, were treated with peptichemio, with increasing doses for groups of 4 patients. The maximum tolerated dose (with minimum hematological toxicity and without any other evident toxicity) with repeated administrations, was 1.2 mg/kg twice weekly. The recommended doses for phase II trials are, as shown by the detailed analysis of the results, 0.9 mg/kg, twice weekly and administered alone, and 1.3 mg/kg, once weekly combined with other cytostatic drugs, in 500 ml of infusion fluid, with 25 mg of heparin and 25 mg of hydrocortisone to minimize the freqent risk of local phlebosclerosis.", "contents": "Phase I trial with peptichemio. Thirty-two patients with tumor progression, even after conventional cytostatic drug treatment, were treated with peptichemio, with increasing doses for groups of 4 patients. The maximum tolerated dose (with minimum hematological toxicity and without any other evident toxicity) with repeated administrations, was 1.2 mg/kg twice weekly. The recommended doses for phase II trials are, as shown by the detailed analysis of the results, 0.9 mg/kg, twice weekly and administered alone, and 1.3 mg/kg, once weekly combined with other cytostatic drugs, in 500 ml of infusion fluid, with 25 mg of heparin and 25 mg of hydrocortisone to minimize the freqent risk of local phlebosclerosis.", "PMID": 442224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5567", "title": "Dimensions of postcapillary venules sensitive to bradykinin and histamine-induced leakage of macromolecules.", "content": "Microvascular leakage of macromolecules was studied in the hamster cheek pouch preparation using fluorescein labelled dextran (FITC-dextran 145 Mw = 145,000) as a tracer. When the preparation is superfused with 10(-5) M histamine or 10(-7) M bradykinin the permeability to macromolecules increases exclusively at postcapillary venules. Microinjections of 30-200 picolitres (pl) of 0.1 M histamine and 10(-4) M bradykinin close to arterioles and capillaries caused extravasation from several postcapillary venules at a distance from site of injection but not from arterioles or capillaries. The minimal diameter of the postcapillary venules where leakage occurred was (n = 45) 8.6 +/- 2.6 (S.D.) microM and the maximal diameter was 14.0 +/- 5.3 microM. Histamine and bradykinin caused leakage of macromolecules in postcapillary venules but not in arterioles, capillaries or larger venules even when these were exposed to high local concentrations of these agents.", "contents": "Dimensions of postcapillary venules sensitive to bradykinin and histamine-induced leakage of macromolecules. Microvascular leakage of macromolecules was studied in the hamster cheek pouch preparation using fluorescein labelled dextran (FITC-dextran 145 Mw = 145,000) as a tracer. When the preparation is superfused with 10(-5) M histamine or 10(-7) M bradykinin the permeability to macromolecules increases exclusively at postcapillary venules. Microinjections of 30-200 picolitres (pl) of 0.1 M histamine and 10(-4) M bradykinin close to arterioles and capillaries caused extravasation from several postcapillary venules at a distance from site of injection but not from arterioles or capillaries. The minimal diameter of the postcapillary venules where leakage occurred was (n = 45) 8.6 +/- 2.6 (S.D.) microM and the maximal diameter was 14.0 +/- 5.3 microM. Histamine and bradykinin caused leakage of macromolecules in postcapillary venules but not in arterioles, capillaries or larger venules even when these were exposed to high local concentrations of these agents.", "PMID": 442278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5568", "title": "Local traumatization with heat--cutaneous reactions and early effects on serum zinc concentration in rats with alloxan diabetes of very short duration.", "content": "Local heat trauma was induced in rats with alloxan diabetes of 3 days' duration. The cutaneous reaction, water content of the skin and serum zinc concentration were estimated. Petechiae within the area of traumatization were observed more often and were more abundant in the controls than in the diabetic animals. There was no difference between diabetic animals and controls with regard to the increase of water content of traumatized skin or to the water content of non-traumatized skin. There was no difference in serum zinc levels between non-traumatized diabetic animals and controls. After traumatization there was a decrease of serum zinc levels in both animal groups, but to a significantly lower level in the diabetic animals compared to the controls.", "contents": "Local traumatization with heat--cutaneous reactions and early effects on serum zinc concentration in rats with alloxan diabetes of very short duration. Local heat trauma was induced in rats with alloxan diabetes of 3 days' duration. The cutaneous reaction, water content of the skin and serum zinc concentration were estimated. Petechiae within the area of traumatization were observed more often and were more abundant in the controls than in the diabetic animals. There was no difference between diabetic animals and controls with regard to the increase of water content of traumatized skin or to the water content of non-traumatized skin. There was no difference in serum zinc levels between non-traumatized diabetic animals and controls. After traumatization there was a decrease of serum zinc levels in both animal groups, but to a significantly lower level in the diabetic animals compared to the controls.", "PMID": 442279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5569", "title": "The effect of short-term high-dose treatment with methenamine hippurate of urinary infection in geriatric patients with indwelling catheters. II. Evaluation by means of a quantified urine sediment.", "content": "The urine sediment of 12 geriatric patients with indwelling catheters was quantified by the glutaraldehyde-cytocentrifuge method prior to, during and after a clinical trial of methenamine hippurate (MH), 2 g x 3 daily given for 34 days as the sole therapeutic agent for the urinary tract infection. The median leukocyte concentration in the urine of these patients was 100 cells/microliter (Q1 - Q3 50-350), i.e. tenfold higher than the upper normal limits reported in healthy probands. The median bacteriuria in the control period was 12 x 10(5) bacteria/ml urine, interquartile range 10-60 x 10(5) bacteria/ml and extreme individual values 300-500 x 10(5) bacteria/ml. Hematuria, defined as greater than or equal to 24 erythrocytes/microliter urine, was not prominent and could not be correlated with MH treatment, nor with catheter changes. The reported observations suggest that short-term high-dose treatment with MH as sole therapeutic agent reduced pyruria and bacteriuria in the group of patients studied.", "contents": "The effect of short-term high-dose treatment with methenamine hippurate of urinary infection in geriatric patients with indwelling catheters. II. Evaluation by means of a quantified urine sediment. The urine sediment of 12 geriatric patients with indwelling catheters was quantified by the glutaraldehyde-cytocentrifuge method prior to, during and after a clinical trial of methenamine hippurate (MH), 2 g x 3 daily given for 34 days as the sole therapeutic agent for the urinary tract infection. The median leukocyte concentration in the urine of these patients was 100 cells/microliter (Q1 - Q3 50-350), i.e. tenfold higher than the upper normal limits reported in healthy probands. The median bacteriuria in the control period was 12 x 10(5) bacteria/ml urine, interquartile range 10-60 x 10(5) bacteria/ml and extreme individual values 300-500 x 10(5) bacteria/ml. Hematuria, defined as greater than or equal to 24 erythrocytes/microliter urine, was not prominent and could not be correlated with MH treatment, nor with catheter changes. The reported observations suggest that short-term high-dose treatment with MH as sole therapeutic agent reduced pyruria and bacteriuria in the group of patients studied.", "PMID": 442280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5570", "title": "The effect of glucose-, arginine- and leucine-deprivation on mouse blastocyst outgrowth in vitro.", "content": "To estimate the degree of trophoblast outgrowth in vitro, mouse blastocysts obtained after delay of implantation were cultured either in a modified Brinster medium or in the same medium with exclusion of various combinations of glucose, arginine and leucine. Trophoblast outgrowth was prevented only in a medium from which all three substances were excluded. In this medium the blastocysts remained expanded for 5 days without signs of trophoblast outgrowth--a growth arrest in vitro. After transfer of blastocysts growth arrested in vitro for 5 days to a complete medium including both glucose and the two amino acids, normal outgrowths occurred within two or three days. The growth-arrested blastocysts also developed normally for at least one week when transplanted into salpingectomized foster mothers. It is concluded that blastocysts activation in vitro can be controlled by a few nutrients in a way reminiscent of the activation prior to implantation in utero. Blastocysts activated in utero by systemic administration of oestrogen for various lengths of time before the start of culture, or in vitro by preincubation in a medium containing glucose and all amino acids, also grew out in the growth arrest medium if they had been activated for a sufficiently long time, 18 h in utero and 1 h in vitro, thus indicating that when a blastocyst has reached a certain degree of activation its growth can not be arrested by exclusion of glucose, arginine and leucine.", "contents": "The effect of glucose-, arginine- and leucine-deprivation on mouse blastocyst outgrowth in vitro. To estimate the degree of trophoblast outgrowth in vitro, mouse blastocysts obtained after delay of implantation were cultured either in a modified Brinster medium or in the same medium with exclusion of various combinations of glucose, arginine and leucine. Trophoblast outgrowth was prevented only in a medium from which all three substances were excluded. In this medium the blastocysts remained expanded for 5 days without signs of trophoblast outgrowth--a growth arrest in vitro. After transfer of blastocysts growth arrested in vitro for 5 days to a complete medium including both glucose and the two amino acids, normal outgrowths occurred within two or three days. The growth-arrested blastocysts also developed normally for at least one week when transplanted into salpingectomized foster mothers. It is concluded that blastocysts activation in vitro can be controlled by a few nutrients in a way reminiscent of the activation prior to implantation in utero. Blastocysts activated in utero by systemic administration of oestrogen for various lengths of time before the start of culture, or in vitro by preincubation in a medium containing glucose and all amino acids, also grew out in the growth arrest medium if they had been activated for a sufficiently long time, 18 h in utero and 1 h in vitro, thus indicating that when a blastocyst has reached a certain degree of activation its growth can not be arrested by exclusion of glucose, arginine and leucine.", "PMID": 442281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5571", "title": "[Investigations on formation risk of calcium oxalate stones with special regard to stress (author's transl)].", "content": "Concentrations and excretion of ten urine parameters were recorded in defined urine portions of 20 calcium oxalate stone patients and 10 normal subjects; some of these urine constituents show a day-night rhythm thus indicating a daily risk variation. From the analysis of questionnaires on physical strain and psychonervous stress, correlations between stress and urine substances can be established. In this connection, oxalic acid concentration and excretion seem to be of special importance. The obtained results provide the basis for further complex-chemical calculations.", "contents": "[Investigations on formation risk of calcium oxalate stones with special regard to stress (author's transl)]. Concentrations and excretion of ten urine parameters were recorded in defined urine portions of 20 calcium oxalate stone patients and 10 normal subjects; some of these urine constituents show a day-night rhythm thus indicating a daily risk variation. From the analysis of questionnaires on physical strain and psychonervous stress, correlations between stress and urine substances can be established. In this connection, oxalic acid concentration and excretion seem to be of special importance. The obtained results provide the basis for further complex-chemical calculations.", "PMID": 442282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5572", "title": "Morphologic effects of metallic copper and cadmium directly implanted into the rat kidney.", "content": "The discovery of increasing amounts of copper and cadmium in public drinking water supplies has prompted an exploration of the effects of these elements upon the kidney. Markedly different responses are observed during the 6 months after the surgical implantation of copper and cadmium wires into kidneys of Sprague-Dawley rats. Those organs which contained copper showed only mild fibrosis near the site of injury and some pelvic distortion. The cadmium-containing kidneys revealed striking parenchymal destruction and pyraminal distortion. The coexistence of persistent foci of mononuclear cells in the cadmium kidneys and widespread parenchymal destruction is accepted as evidence for the actuality of a tissue hypersensitivity to this metallic element.", "contents": "Morphologic effects of metallic copper and cadmium directly implanted into the rat kidney. The discovery of increasing amounts of copper and cadmium in public drinking water supplies has prompted an exploration of the effects of these elements upon the kidney. Markedly different responses are observed during the 6 months after the surgical implantation of copper and cadmium wires into kidneys of Sprague-Dawley rats. Those organs which contained copper showed only mild fibrosis near the site of injury and some pelvic distortion. The cadmium-containing kidneys revealed striking parenchymal destruction and pyraminal distortion. The coexistence of persistent foci of mononuclear cells in the cadmium kidneys and widespread parenchymal destruction is accepted as evidence for the actuality of a tissue hypersensitivity to this metallic element.", "PMID": 442283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5573", "title": "Effects of adrenergic and cholinergic agents on ureteral functions in dogs.", "content": "The effects of the autonomic nervous system on ureteral functions were investigated by application of stimulating and blocking drugs. These effects were differentiated from those due to a change of urine flow by perfusing the renal pelvis with isotonic saline. Peristaltic frequency was readily increased by higher flow volume, but was rarely affected by blockage of alpha-adrenergic and cholinergic receptors. The ureteral pacemaker could be activated by alpha-stimulation and inhibited by beta-stimulation. During perfusion of renal pelvis at a pressure of 12 mm Hg, transport capacity of the ureter could be significantly increased either by alpha-blockade or beta-stimulation. Stimulation of alpha-receptors decreased transport capacity, whereas stimulation of cholinergic receptors remained ineffective. These experiments suggest that responses of sympathetic stimulators and blockers are brought about by their influence on ureter muscle tone. The therapeutic value of these drugs is discussed.", "contents": "Effects of adrenergic and cholinergic agents on ureteral functions in dogs. The effects of the autonomic nervous system on ureteral functions were investigated by application of stimulating and blocking drugs. These effects were differentiated from those due to a change of urine flow by perfusing the renal pelvis with isotonic saline. Peristaltic frequency was readily increased by higher flow volume, but was rarely affected by blockage of alpha-adrenergic and cholinergic receptors. The ureteral pacemaker could be activated by alpha-stimulation and inhibited by beta-stimulation. During perfusion of renal pelvis at a pressure of 12 mm Hg, transport capacity of the ureter could be significantly increased either by alpha-blockade or beta-stimulation. Stimulation of alpha-receptors decreased transport capacity, whereas stimulation of cholinergic receptors remained ineffective. These experiments suggest that responses of sympathetic stimulators and blockers are brought about by their influence on ureter muscle tone. The therapeutic value of these drugs is discussed.", "PMID": 442284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5574", "title": "Influence of pressoreceptor stimulation on electrical activity of the ureter in anesthetized rabbits.", "content": "In a previous study, pressoreceptor stimulation was found to augment parasympathetic activity in the bladder. This investigation is a continuum to determine any influence of similar effects on the ureter. With equal urine flow, stimulation of pressoreceptors caused an increase in ureteral peristaltic activity. The exact mechanism of action was not determined.", "contents": "Influence of pressoreceptor stimulation on electrical activity of the ureter in anesthetized rabbits. In a previous study, pressoreceptor stimulation was found to augment parasympathetic activity in the bladder. This investigation is a continuum to determine any influence of similar effects on the ureter. With equal urine flow, stimulation of pressoreceptors caused an increase in ureteral peristaltic activity. The exact mechanism of action was not determined.", "PMID": 442285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5575", "title": "Scanning electron microscope and microprobe investigation of phosphate phases in uroliths.", "content": "In uroliths various phosphate phases can be detected which indicate different formation conditions. Structure and topography of the respective phosphate phases are characterized by scanning electron microscopy and microprobe techniques. Trace element enrichment is investigated and illustrated; for example, sulfur is found preferentially in carbonate apatite. From the distribution of the phosphate phases, conclusions can be drawn concerning the urolith genesis.", "contents": "Scanning electron microscope and microprobe investigation of phosphate phases in uroliths. In uroliths various phosphate phases can be detected which indicate different formation conditions. Structure and topography of the respective phosphate phases are characterized by scanning electron microscopy and microprobe techniques. Trace element enrichment is investigated and illustrated; for example, sulfur is found preferentially in carbonate apatite. From the distribution of the phosphate phases, conclusions can be drawn concerning the urolith genesis.", "PMID": 442286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5576", "title": "Renal fascia: its radiographic importance.", "content": "The renal fascia, commonly known as Gerota's fascia, is a collagenous connective tissue sheath which separates the perirenal fat from the pararenal fat. It may be visualized radiographically and is helpful in the precise localization of abdominal masses. It is also useful in the diagnosis of perinephric hematomas and abscesses and in distinguishing them from intrarenal or subcapsular hematomas and abscesses. The anatomy of the renal fascia is briefly discussed, and representative cases are presented.", "contents": "Renal fascia: its radiographic importance. The renal fascia, commonly known as Gerota's fascia, is a collagenous connective tissue sheath which separates the perirenal fat from the pararenal fat. It may be visualized radiographically and is helpful in the precise localization of abdominal masses. It is also useful in the diagnosis of perinephric hematomas and abscesses and in distinguishing them from intrarenal or subcapsular hematomas and abscesses. The anatomy of the renal fascia is briefly discussed, and representative cases are presented.", "PMID": 442312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5577", "title": "Rapid and slow-fill gas cystometry. Influence on bladder capacity and diagnosis of hyperreflexic bladder.", "content": "Rapid-fill gas cystometry has been criticized for giving a falsely low value of bladder volume and for inducing an \"artefact\", the hyperreflexic bladder. This study in 72 patients revealed that the average capacity with slow-fill air cystometry was less than with rapid fill. The diagnosis of hyperreflexic bladder was made more often with slow fill than with rapid fill in these 72 patients.", "contents": "Rapid and slow-fill gas cystometry. Influence on bladder capacity and diagnosis of hyperreflexic bladder. Rapid-fill gas cystometry has been criticized for giving a falsely low value of bladder volume and for inducing an \"artefact\", the hyperreflexic bladder. This study in 72 patients revealed that the average capacity with slow-fill air cystometry was less than with rapid fill. The diagnosis of hyperreflexic bladder was made more often with slow fill than with rapid fill in these 72 patients.", "PMID": 442313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5578", "title": "Changing patterns in age distribution of renal carcinoma patients.", "content": "A review of 890 cases of renal carcinoma in patients admitted to M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute from 1975 to 1976 has revealed a significant increase in the proportion of patients in the age group forty to forty-nine years.", "contents": "Changing patterns in age distribution of renal carcinoma patients. A review of 890 cases of renal carcinoma in patients admitted to M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute from 1975 to 1976 has revealed a significant increase in the proportion of patients in the age group forty to forty-nine years.", "PMID": 442314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5579", "title": "Intrathoracic kidney.", "content": "Five cases of intrathoracic kidney are presented, and the literature is reviewed. The diagnosis was made incidentally in 3 patients who had chest radiographs because of upper respiratory tract infections and in 1 infant on a follow-up radiograph after recovery from hyaline membrane disease. The fifth patient had an abdominal mass. All 5 patients had a left intrathoracic kidney, and 2 had a left Bochdalek hernia. An intrathoracic kidney should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a posterior mediastinal mass.", "contents": "Intrathoracic kidney. Five cases of intrathoracic kidney are presented, and the literature is reviewed. The diagnosis was made incidentally in 3 patients who had chest radiographs because of upper respiratory tract infections and in 1 infant on a follow-up radiograph after recovery from hyaline membrane disease. The fifth patient had an abdominal mass. All 5 patients had a left intrathoracic kidney, and 2 had a left Bochdalek hernia. An intrathoracic kidney should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a posterior mediastinal mass.", "PMID": 442315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5580", "title": "Percutaneous dilatation of ureteroileal strictures and insertion of Gibbons ureteral stents.", "content": "A ureteroileal stricture can be dilated through a percutaneous nephrostomy after antegrade catheterization of the ureter. The region of the stricture is kept open with a Gibbons ureteral stent.", "contents": "Percutaneous dilatation of ureteroileal strictures and insertion of Gibbons ureteral stents. A ureteroileal stricture can be dilated through a percutaneous nephrostomy after antegrade catheterization of the ureter. The region of the stricture is kept open with a Gibbons ureteral stent.", "PMID": 442316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5581", "title": "Enuresis: evaluation of perplexing symptom.", "content": "The child with enuresis is a common problem facing the urologist. We have done a retrospective study of 182 enuretic children seen at our Clinic from January, 1970, to December, 1975. There was a 10.4-per cent incidence of vesicoureteral reflux. In only 58 per cent of the children with reflux were positive urine cultures demonstrated. There were no significant complications in studying these children under general anesthesia. Therefore, we believe an aggressive approach is justified.", "contents": "Enuresis: evaluation of perplexing symptom. The child with enuresis is a common problem facing the urologist. We have done a retrospective study of 182 enuretic children seen at our Clinic from January, 1970, to December, 1975. There was a 10.4-per cent incidence of vesicoureteral reflux. In only 58 per cent of the children with reflux were positive urine cultures demonstrated. There were no significant complications in studying these children under general anesthesia. Therefore, we believe an aggressive approach is justified.", "PMID": 442317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5582", "title": "Psychogenic urinary retention.", "content": "Six cases (5 females and 1 male) of unexplained urinary retention are reported. The diagnosis of psychogenic urinary retention was considered after negative medical, urologic, urodynamic, and neurologic evaluations. This diagnosis was then confirmed by psychiatric consultation. Urinary retention was managed by combining biofeedback-monitored relaxation and specific imagery techniques with intermittent self-catheterization on a fixed schedule. Psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and behavior therapy were also utilized with good to excellent short-term results.", "contents": "Psychogenic urinary retention. Six cases (5 females and 1 male) of unexplained urinary retention are reported. The diagnosis of psychogenic urinary retention was considered after negative medical, urologic, urodynamic, and neurologic evaluations. This diagnosis was then confirmed by psychiatric consultation. Urinary retention was managed by combining biofeedback-monitored relaxation and specific imagery techniques with intermittent self-catheterization on a fixed schedule. Psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and behavior therapy were also utilized with good to excellent short-term results.", "PMID": 442318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5583", "title": "Psychosexual problems of aging males: urologist's viewpoint.", "content": "Sexual impotency is commonly psychogenic. Any therapist who will take the time to hear out his patient's complaints can readily differentiate etiologies that are likely to respond to simple encouragement and support from those that would require more sophisticated psychology. Key points in the patient's medical history are identified to establish the diagnosis of psychogenic impotency. The diagnostic approach is described herein. Most patients with psychogenic impotency have resumed sexual intercourse within three visits.", "contents": "Psychosexual problems of aging males: urologist's viewpoint. Sexual impotency is commonly psychogenic. Any therapist who will take the time to hear out his patient's complaints can readily differentiate etiologies that are likely to respond to simple encouragement and support from those that would require more sophisticated psychology. Key points in the patient's medical history are identified to establish the diagnosis of psychogenic impotency. The diagnostic approach is described herein. Most patients with psychogenic impotency have resumed sexual intercourse within three visits.", "PMID": 442319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5584", "title": "Complications of Small-Carrion penile prosthesis.", "content": "Seventy-six patients with impotence have undergone insertion of the Small-Carrion penile prosthesis at Duke University Medical Center. Twenty patients experienced postoperative complications. Seven of these 20 patients lost one or both prostheses either by spontaneous extrusion or surgical removal. Although success with this procedure is well documented, complications may be significant when they occur and awareness of these problems is essential for proper management. The benefits of this procedure are reviewed, and reported complications and their management are discussed.", "contents": "Complications of Small-Carrion penile prosthesis. Seventy-six patients with impotence have undergone insertion of the Small-Carrion penile prosthesis at Duke University Medical Center. Twenty patients experienced postoperative complications. Seven of these 20 patients lost one or both prostheses either by spontaneous extrusion or surgical removal. Although success with this procedure is well documented, complications may be significant when they occur and awareness of these problems is essential for proper management. The benefits of this procedure are reviewed, and reported complications and their management are discussed.", "PMID": 442320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5585", "title": "Partial penectomy. Technique to eliminate meatal stricture.", "content": "A surgical technique for partial penile amputation is described which prevents meatal retraction and stenosis, and results in a functionally and cosmetically acceptable phallus.", "contents": "Partial penectomy. Technique to eliminate meatal stricture. A surgical technique for partial penile amputation is described which prevents meatal retraction and stenosis, and results in a functionally and cosmetically acceptable phallus.", "PMID": 442321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5586", "title": "Aligamentous testicle. New clinicopathologic entity in genesis of male infertility and its treatment by orchiopexy.", "content": "Absent scrotal ligament or the aligamentous testicle is a clinicopathologic entity which plays an important role in the genesis of male infertility. Twenty-four cases of aligamentous testicle, collected from 300 idiopathic infertile subjects, were studied. Clinical, endocrine, semen, and testicular biopsies were performed. The criteria of diagnosis of the aligamentous testicle are outlined and the role in infertility is discussed. Eighteen infertile patients with aligamentous testicle were treated by orchiopexy aiming to create an artificial scrotal ligament. The technique is described. The results were satisfactory. Failures were due to bad selection of patients.", "contents": "Aligamentous testicle. New clinicopathologic entity in genesis of male infertility and its treatment by orchiopexy. Absent scrotal ligament or the aligamentous testicle is a clinicopathologic entity which plays an important role in the genesis of male infertility. Twenty-four cases of aligamentous testicle, collected from 300 idiopathic infertile subjects, were studied. Clinical, endocrine, semen, and testicular biopsies were performed. The criteria of diagnosis of the aligamentous testicle are outlined and the role in infertility is discussed. Eighteen infertile patients with aligamentous testicle were treated by orchiopexy aiming to create an artificial scrotal ligament. The technique is described. The results were satisfactory. Failures were due to bad selection of patients.", "PMID": 442322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5587", "title": "Multilocular cystic disease of kidney.", "content": "A case of multilocular cyst of the kidney with calcification is presented and pertinent literature is reviewed. With our present knowledge, a multilocular cyst cannot be clearly differentiated from a malignant renal tumor by preoperative evaluation. Conservative surgery with operative evaluation of the lesion is suggested.", "contents": "Multilocular cystic disease of kidney. A case of multilocular cyst of the kidney with calcification is presented and pertinent literature is reviewed. With our present knowledge, a multilocular cyst cannot be clearly differentiated from a malignant renal tumor by preoperative evaluation. Conservative surgery with operative evaluation of the lesion is suggested.", "PMID": 442323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5588", "title": "Crossed fused renal ectopia.", "content": "An unusual form of crossed renal ectopia is presented. Both kidneys are at the same level on the same side with fusion throughout their entire lengths.", "contents": "Crossed fused renal ectopia. An unusual form of crossed renal ectopia is presented. Both kidneys are at the same level on the same side with fusion throughout their entire lengths.", "PMID": 442324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5589", "title": "Asymmetrical gonadal enlargement in adolescent true hermaphrodite with bilateral ovotestes.", "content": "A case of gynecomastia and asymmetrical gonadal enlargement in a thirteen and one-half-year-old \"male\" true hermaphrodite with biopsy-proved bilateral ovotestes is presented. The pathology, genetics, endocrinology, and management of this entity are discussed and compared with instances of hermaphroditism in which there is distinct separation of the ovarian and testicular tissues.", "contents": "Asymmetrical gonadal enlargement in adolescent true hermaphrodite with bilateral ovotestes. A case of gynecomastia and asymmetrical gonadal enlargement in a thirteen and one-half-year-old \"male\" true hermaphrodite with biopsy-proved bilateral ovotestes is presented. The pathology, genetics, endocrinology, and management of this entity are discussed and compared with instances of hermaphroditism in which there is distinct separation of the ovarian and testicular tissues.", "PMID": 442325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5590", "title": "Renal oncocytoma.", "content": "Renal oncocytoma is a rare tumor of probable proximal tubular origin characterized by uniform cells with abundant, granular, brightly eosinophilic cytoplasm containing numerous mitochondria. The tumor is benign clinically and can be distinguished from renal cell carcinoma.", "contents": "Renal oncocytoma. Renal oncocytoma is a rare tumor of probable proximal tubular origin characterized by uniform cells with abundant, granular, brightly eosinophilic cytoplasm containing numerous mitochondria. The tumor is benign clinically and can be distinguished from renal cell carcinoma.", "PMID": 442326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5591", "title": "Two new, direct, and specific methods of acid phosphatase determination. National field trial.", "content": "A national study of the new specific assays for prostatic acid phosphatase was conducted by the National Prostatic Cancer Project. The results of the study have confirmed that the counterimmunoelectrophoretic method is easily reproducible, highly specific, and sufficiently sensitive. Based on tests as performed by different institutions, the counterimmunoelectrophoretic (CIEP) method was also shown to have high reproducibility and was found to be of much greater sensitivity than the conventional biochemical methods for the detection of earlier stages of prostatic cancer. The national study of the radioimmunoassay (RIA) has shown that although being a highly sensitive method, it could not be readily distributed at this time from one specialized center. It requires highly specific, expensive technical assistance and is not yet available nationwide. CIEP is recommended at this time to be used as the preferred method in the evaluation and diagnosis of prostatic cancer. The value of counterimmunoelectrophoresis in detecting early prostatic cancer as a screening method is promising, but still under study.", "contents": "Two new, direct, and specific methods of acid phosphatase determination. National field trial. A national study of the new specific assays for prostatic acid phosphatase was conducted by the National Prostatic Cancer Project. The results of the study have confirmed that the counterimmunoelectrophoretic method is easily reproducible, highly specific, and sufficiently sensitive. Based on tests as performed by different institutions, the counterimmunoelectrophoretic (CIEP) method was also shown to have high reproducibility and was found to be of much greater sensitivity than the conventional biochemical methods for the detection of earlier stages of prostatic cancer. The national study of the radioimmunoassay (RIA) has shown that although being a highly sensitive method, it could not be readily distributed at this time from one specialized center. It requires highly specific, expensive technical assistance and is not yet available nationwide. CIEP is recommended at this time to be used as the preferred method in the evaluation and diagnosis of prostatic cancer. The value of counterimmunoelectrophoresis in detecting early prostatic cancer as a screening method is promising, but still under study.", "PMID": 442328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5592", "title": "Correlation of cytology and cystoscopy.", "content": "A total of 152 patients had cytology and cystoscopy performed for either initial or recurrent bladder tumors and postoperative control examinations. Positive cytology was found in 97 per cent of patients with pathologically proved bladder tumors. However, 23 per cent of the patients with negative cytology had positive cystoscopic and pathologically proved findings. Without cystoscopic examination a significant number of recurrent tumors may be missed because of a negative cytology.", "contents": "Correlation of cytology and cystoscopy. A total of 152 patients had cytology and cystoscopy performed for either initial or recurrent bladder tumors and postoperative control examinations. Positive cytology was found in 97 per cent of patients with pathologically proved bladder tumors. However, 23 per cent of the patients with negative cytology had positive cystoscopic and pathologically proved findings. Without cystoscopic examination a significant number of recurrent tumors may be missed because of a negative cytology.", "PMID": 442330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5593", "title": "Renal adenoma -- a misnomer.", "content": "Because it is difficult histologically to differentiate between a renal cell carcinoma and a renal adenoma, their differentiation has been based on size. Lesions less than 3 cm. have been called adenomas and those greater than 3 cm. carcinomas. It is a widely accepted concept that adenomas evolve into adenocarcinomas, and it is true that lesions less than 3 cm. rarely metastasize. However, as demonstrated by this case and others, metastasis can occur, therefore, it is suggested that the term renal adenoma no longer be used.", "contents": "Renal adenoma -- a misnomer. Because it is difficult histologically to differentiate between a renal cell carcinoma and a renal adenoma, their differentiation has been based on size. Lesions less than 3 cm. have been called adenomas and those greater than 3 cm. carcinomas. It is a widely accepted concept that adenomas evolve into adenocarcinomas, and it is true that lesions less than 3 cm. rarely metastasize. However, as demonstrated by this case and others, metastasis can occur, therefore, it is suggested that the term renal adenoma no longer be used.", "PMID": 442331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5594", "title": "Sertoli cell tumor of testis.", "content": "A case is reported of a patient with Sertoli cell tumor of the testis, the second known to have had a lymphangiogram and the third with histopathologic examination of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Lymphangiography was performed because of extension of the tumor through the tunica albuginea into the adjacent adherent scrotum at the site of previous testicular biopsy. The lymphangiogram proved to be falsely positive following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. The patient has remained clinically free of tumor for eight years.", "contents": "Sertoli cell tumor of testis. A case is reported of a patient with Sertoli cell tumor of the testis, the second known to have had a lymphangiogram and the third with histopathologic examination of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Lymphangiography was performed because of extension of the tumor through the tunica albuginea into the adjacent adherent scrotum at the site of previous testicular biopsy. The lymphangiogram proved to be falsely positive following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. The patient has remained clinically free of tumor for eight years.", "PMID": 442332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5595", "title": "Renal phlebography in diagnosis of poorly vascularized renal malignancies.", "content": "Eight cases are presented to demonstrate the value and limitations of renal phlebography in the diagnosis of poorly vascularized renal malignancies. Because of the easier compressibility of the thinner venous channels, malignant tumors may cause more pronounced phlebographic changes than seen in corresponding arteriographic studies. Changes include venous compression and amputation, tumor thrombus, and venous neovascularity. It is believed that the supplementary use of renal phlebography at the same time arteriography is being accomplished may increase the chances of preoperatively diagnosing such hypovascular renal malignancies as papillary-tubular adenocarcinomas, metastatic and necrotic malignancies, and invasive transitional cell carcinomas.", "contents": "Renal phlebography in diagnosis of poorly vascularized renal malignancies. Eight cases are presented to demonstrate the value and limitations of renal phlebography in the diagnosis of poorly vascularized renal malignancies. Because of the easier compressibility of the thinner venous channels, malignant tumors may cause more pronounced phlebographic changes than seen in corresponding arteriographic studies. Changes include venous compression and amputation, tumor thrombus, and venous neovascularity. It is believed that the supplementary use of renal phlebography at the same time arteriography is being accomplished may increase the chances of preoperatively diagnosing such hypovascular renal malignancies as papillary-tubular adenocarcinomas, metastatic and necrotic malignancies, and invasive transitional cell carcinomas.", "PMID": 442333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5596", "title": "Nonobstructive fragmentation of central renal pyelocalyceal echo complex.", "content": "When renal echograms are made, the central renal pyelocalyceal complex (CRPC) is seen as a strongly echogenic oval confluence surrounded by echo-poor renal parenchyma. Fragmentation of the CRPC is abnormal, and this fragmentation is widely known in association with urinary obstruction. But, there are a variety of nonobstructive causes for dispersion of the CRPC; renal duplication, postobstructive atrophy, chronic pyelonephritis, renal sinus lipomatosis, nephrocalcinosis, and renal cystic disease. Patterns of CRPC fragmentation may be correlated with renal parenchymal status to determine the cause of abnormal renal echograms.", "contents": "Nonobstructive fragmentation of central renal pyelocalyceal echo complex. When renal echograms are made, the central renal pyelocalyceal complex (CRPC) is seen as a strongly echogenic oval confluence surrounded by echo-poor renal parenchyma. Fragmentation of the CRPC is abnormal, and this fragmentation is widely known in association with urinary obstruction. But, there are a variety of nonobstructive causes for dispersion of the CRPC; renal duplication, postobstructive atrophy, chronic pyelonephritis, renal sinus lipomatosis, nephrocalcinosis, and renal cystic disease. Patterns of CRPC fragmentation may be correlated with renal parenchymal status to determine the cause of abnormal renal echograms.", "PMID": 442334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5597", "title": "Complications of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy.", "content": "Complications found in 47 individuals who underwent radical retroperitoneal node dissection were retrospectively analyzed. Our results indicate no mortality and an over-all complication rate of 29.7 per cent. An increased number of complications was noted in those patients who underwent elective appendectomy and in those node dissection above the renal vessels.", "contents": "Complications of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Complications found in 47 individuals who underwent radical retroperitoneal node dissection were retrospectively analyzed. Our results indicate no mortality and an over-all complication rate of 29.7 per cent. An increased number of complications was noted in those patients who underwent elective appendectomy and in those node dissection above the renal vessels.", "PMID": 442335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5598", "title": "Complications of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for nonseminomatous tumors of testis.", "content": "We present 4 patients with serious complications after retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Chylothorax developed in the first patient; hypertension, blindness, and paralysis of the lower extremities in the second; volvulus and necrosis around an adhesion in the right upper quadrant in the third; and small-bowel obstruction and radiation myelitis in the fourth patient. These complications and modes of treatment and prevention are discussed.", "contents": "Complications of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for nonseminomatous tumors of testis. We present 4 patients with serious complications after retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Chylothorax developed in the first patient; hypertension, blindness, and paralysis of the lower extremities in the second; volvulus and necrosis around an adhesion in the right upper quadrant in the third; and small-bowel obstruction and radiation myelitis in the fourth patient. These complications and modes of treatment and prevention are discussed.", "PMID": 442336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5599", "title": "Primary massive reflux in children.", "content": "Over a ten-year period, of more than 1,000 children whose primary vesicoureteral reflux was treated surgically, there were 54 children with 80 single ureters which were massively dilated. Primary reconstruction with ureteral tailoring was done in 25 ureters with a success rate of 92 per cent. Forty-five ureters were temporarily diverted because of uncontrolled infection and/or azotemia. In almost half of these instances, temporary diversion resulted in improvement in ureteral caliber to such an extent that nontailored reimplantation could be performed with a success rate of 87 per cent. Six kidneys were removed and four have been maintained in the diverted state with severe renal dysplasia. Eighty-eight per cent of the refluxing megaureters were reconstructed with a success rate of 89 per cent.", "contents": "Primary massive reflux in children. Over a ten-year period, of more than 1,000 children whose primary vesicoureteral reflux was treated surgically, there were 54 children with 80 single ureters which were massively dilated. Primary reconstruction with ureteral tailoring was done in 25 ureters with a success rate of 92 per cent. Forty-five ureters were temporarily diverted because of uncontrolled infection and/or azotemia. In almost half of these instances, temporary diversion resulted in improvement in ureteral caliber to such an extent that nontailored reimplantation could be performed with a success rate of 87 per cent. Six kidneys were removed and four have been maintained in the diverted state with severe renal dysplasia. Eighty-eight per cent of the refluxing megaureters were reconstructed with a success rate of 89 per cent.", "PMID": 442337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5600", "title": "Primary nonfunctioning carcinoma of adrenal cortex.", "content": "Two cases of nonfunctioning adrenocortical carcinomas are presented. The clinical features, operative findings, and histopathologic appearances are discussed. It is believed that these tumors are difficult to diagnose because of their vague presentation. Intravenous urography with nephrotomography is the most valuable method of detecting these tumors, and surgery remains the best treatment.", "contents": "Primary nonfunctioning carcinoma of adrenal cortex. Two cases of nonfunctioning adrenocortical carcinomas are presented. The clinical features, operative findings, and histopathologic appearances are discussed. It is believed that these tumors are difficult to diagnose because of their vague presentation. Intravenous urography with nephrotomography is the most valuable method of detecting these tumors, and surgery remains the best treatment.", "PMID": 442338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5601", "title": "Renal artery aneurysm.", "content": "More and more renal artery aneurysms are being diagnosed, especially after the introduction of selective arteriography for the evaluation of renovascular hypertension. However, renal artery aneurysm still remains a rare entity. The pathogenesis of renal artery aneurysm is identical to the pathogenesis of arterial aneurysm in other arteries. Symptoms of aneurysm of the renal artery are dependent on a variety of factors, the most important of which are the size of the aneurysm, its location, and whether or not rupture has occurred. The indication for operation on renal artery aneurysm is rupture or threat of rupture. Herein we present a review of the literature and a report of 2 cases which exemplify the capabilities of the surgeon in dealing with such cases.", "contents": "Renal artery aneurysm. More and more renal artery aneurysms are being diagnosed, especially after the introduction of selective arteriography for the evaluation of renovascular hypertension. However, renal artery aneurysm still remains a rare entity. The pathogenesis of renal artery aneurysm is identical to the pathogenesis of arterial aneurysm in other arteries. Symptoms of aneurysm of the renal artery are dependent on a variety of factors, the most important of which are the size of the aneurysm, its location, and whether or not rupture has occurred. The indication for operation on renal artery aneurysm is rupture or threat of rupture. Herein we present a review of the literature and a report of 2 cases which exemplify the capabilities of the surgeon in dealing with such cases.", "PMID": 442340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5602", "title": "Catheter-related injuries as cause of acute surgical condition within abdomen.", "content": "Three cases of an acute surgical condition within the abdomen secondary to complications of chronic urethral catheters are reported. Common factors in the history and varying mechanisms for the injuries are discussed. Need for including catheter-related injuries in the differential diagnosis of an acute surgical condition of the abdomen is emphasized.", "contents": "Catheter-related injuries as cause of acute surgical condition within abdomen. Three cases of an acute surgical condition within the abdomen secondary to complications of chronic urethral catheters are reported. Common factors in the history and varying mechanisms for the injuries are discussed. Need for including catheter-related injuries in the differential diagnosis of an acute surgical condition of the abdomen is emphasized.", "PMID": 442341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5603", "title": "Difference between continuous wave and superpulse carbon dioxide laser in bladder surgery.", "content": "Adult exteriorized rabbit bladders were treated with both continuous wave and rapid superpulsed laser energy. A carbon dioxide laser was utilized in these studies. Time and power density were varied, and the effect in both acute and delayed preparations was noted. An additional group of animals treated with the carcinogen dibutylnitrosamine was studied in a similar manner. The depth of tissue ablated was monitored by the operating microscope and varied from 1 to 2 mm., using the power-time grid we employed. Not only could the depth of destruction be controlled, but also re-epithelialization was apparent in one and one-half to three and one-half weeks after destruction. Differences between superpulsed and continuous wave carbon dioxide laser energy are compared.", "contents": "Difference between continuous wave and superpulse carbon dioxide laser in bladder surgery. Adult exteriorized rabbit bladders were treated with both continuous wave and rapid superpulsed laser energy. A carbon dioxide laser was utilized in these studies. Time and power density were varied, and the effect in both acute and delayed preparations was noted. An additional group of animals treated with the carcinogen dibutylnitrosamine was studied in a similar manner. The depth of tissue ablated was monitored by the operating microscope and varied from 1 to 2 mm., using the power-time grid we employed. Not only could the depth of destruction be controlled, but also re-epithelialization was apparent in one and one-half to three and one-half weeks after destruction. Differences between superpulsed and continuous wave carbon dioxide laser energy are compared.", "PMID": 442342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5604", "title": "Treatment of estrogen-resistant stage D carcinoma of prostate with cis diamminedichloroplatinum.", "content": "Forty-five patients with rapidly progressive, estrogen-resistant Stage D adenocarcinoma of the prostate were treated with infusions of cis diamminedichloroplatinum (cis platinum) (1 mg./Kg./week) for six weeks initially and every three weeks thereafter. A partial objective response was observed in 13 of 45 patients (29 per cent). This response lasted from two to sixteen months with an average of six months. Eighteen patients (40 per cent) had a significant decrease or disappearance of bone pain and became ambulatory. Six patients (13 per cent) remained stable, and 8 patients (18 per cent) did not respond to treatment and showed progression of their disease. The toxicity of the treatment was mild to moderate. Most of the patients were treated in the outpatient department. Cis platinum appears to be the most effective drug available to date for the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate.", "contents": "Treatment of estrogen-resistant stage D carcinoma of prostate with cis diamminedichloroplatinum. Forty-five patients with rapidly progressive, estrogen-resistant Stage D adenocarcinoma of the prostate were treated with infusions of cis diamminedichloroplatinum (cis platinum) (1 mg./Kg./week) for six weeks initially and every three weeks thereafter. A partial objective response was observed in 13 of 45 patients (29 per cent). This response lasted from two to sixteen months with an average of six months. Eighteen patients (40 per cent) had a significant decrease or disappearance of bone pain and became ambulatory. Six patients (13 per cent) remained stable, and 8 patients (18 per cent) did not respond to treatment and showed progression of their disease. The toxicity of the treatment was mild to moderate. Most of the patients were treated in the outpatient department. Cis platinum appears to be the most effective drug available to date for the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate.", "PMID": 442343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5605", "title": "Nondelay in vesicovaginal fistula repair.", "content": "Current attitudes toward closure of vesicovaginal fistulas have engendered a period of delay of three to six months prior to surgical closure. We believe that such delay is unwarranted, and describe our experiences with the closure of these fistulas as soon as the diagnosis is made. We consider our success to be good and therefore advocate a more direct approach to these injuries.", "contents": "Nondelay in vesicovaginal fistula repair. Current attitudes toward closure of vesicovaginal fistulas have engendered a period of delay of three to six months prior to surgical closure. We believe that such delay is unwarranted, and describe our experiences with the closure of these fistulas as soon as the diagnosis is made. We consider our success to be good and therefore advocate a more direct approach to these injuries.", "PMID": 442344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5606", "title": "Transplacental exposure to diethylstilbestrol in men.", "content": "Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was widely prescribed during the late 1940s and early 1950s for complications of pregnancy. Twenty-four men exposed to DES in utero were examined and compared with twenty-four age-matched controls; contrary to previous reports, we found no difference between the two groups in their psychosexual history, medical history, genital examination, or semen analysis.", "contents": "Transplacental exposure to diethylstilbestrol in men. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was widely prescribed during the late 1940s and early 1950s for complications of pregnancy. Twenty-four men exposed to DES in utero were examined and compared with twenty-four age-matched controls; contrary to previous reports, we found no difference between the two groups in their psychosexual history, medical history, genital examination, or semen analysis.", "PMID": 442345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5607", "title": "Seminal zinc and male infertility.", "content": "Low seminal plasma zinc is an indication of prostatic secretory dysfunction. We have identified a group of patients referred for infertility evaluation who demonstrated low seminal plasma zinc and decreased sperm motility, in the absence of infection. Treatment of these patients with oral zinc sulfate results in improved sperm motility.", "contents": "Seminal zinc and male infertility. Low seminal plasma zinc is an indication of prostatic secretory dysfunction. We have identified a group of patients referred for infertility evaluation who demonstrated low seminal plasma zinc and decreased sperm motility, in the absence of infection. Treatment of these patients with oral zinc sulfate results in improved sperm motility.", "PMID": 442346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5608", "title": "Unusual cause of acute urinary retention in a child.", "content": "A five-year-old child presented with a history of acute urinary retention for eighteen hours. Extensive diagnostic evaluation proved the presence of a retrovesical pelvic mass, which on surgical exploration was found to be an acutely inflamed appendix.", "contents": "Unusual cause of acute urinary retention in a child. A five-year-old child presented with a history of acute urinary retention for eighteen hours. Extensive diagnostic evaluation proved the presence of a retrovesical pelvic mass, which on surgical exploration was found to be an acutely inflamed appendix.", "PMID": 442347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5609", "title": "Ultrasonographic diagnosis of fetal hydronephrosis in utero.", "content": "Ultrasonography offers a noninvasive method to visualize antenatal or neonatal anatomy which will lead to early detection and treatment of abnormalities. In these 2 cases, ultrasound allowed prompt diagnosis of hydronephrosis despite normal physical examination and laboratory values at birth.", "contents": "Ultrasonographic diagnosis of fetal hydronephrosis in utero. Ultrasonography offers a noninvasive method to visualize antenatal or neonatal anatomy which will lead to early detection and treatment of abnormalities. In these 2 cases, ultrasound allowed prompt diagnosis of hydronephrosis despite normal physical examination and laboratory values at birth.", "PMID": 442349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5610", "title": "Assessment of cavernous hemangioma of bladder by technetium-99-tagged albumin scan.", "content": "A case of cavernous hemangioma of the bladder is presented and its endoscopic appearance is illustrated. A scan utilizing technetium-99-labeled albumin has been found valuable in determining the extent of the lesion.", "contents": "Assessment of cavernous hemangioma of bladder by technetium-99-tagged albumin scan. A case of cavernous hemangioma of the bladder is presented and its endoscopic appearance is illustrated. A scan utilizing technetium-99-labeled albumin has been found valuable in determining the extent of the lesion.", "PMID": 442350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5611", "title": "Neurocutaneous syndromes and retroperitoneal tumors.", "content": "A patient with multiple basal cell carcinoma syndrome, a symptom complex characteristized by nevoid basal cell carcinomas of the skin, jaw cysts, skeletal abnormalities, and hyporesponsiveness to parathormone is presented. In addition, the patient had a retroperitoneal lymphagiomyoma, a hamartomatous lesion, causing ureteral obstruction. The association of neuroectodermic syndromes and retroperitoneal and intra-abdominal tumors is reviewed.", "contents": "Neurocutaneous syndromes and retroperitoneal tumors. A patient with multiple basal cell carcinoma syndrome, a symptom complex characteristized by nevoid basal cell carcinomas of the skin, jaw cysts, skeletal abnormalities, and hyporesponsiveness to parathormone is presented. In addition, the patient had a retroperitoneal lymphagiomyoma, a hamartomatous lesion, causing ureteral obstruction. The association of neuroectodermic syndromes and retroperitoneal and intra-abdominal tumors is reviewed.", "PMID": 442351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5612", "title": "Testicular tumor in male pseudohermaphrodite with X/XY chromosomal mosaicism.", "content": "A case of testicular tumor in an intersex patient is presented. Knowledge of the potential of gonadal malignancy is important in the management of disorders of sexual differentiation. These patients, in whom the fields of oncology, embryology, endocrinology, and genetics intersect, provide a fruitful ground for clinical investigation.", "contents": "Testicular tumor in male pseudohermaphrodite with X/XY chromosomal mosaicism. A case of testicular tumor in an intersex patient is presented. Knowledge of the potential of gonadal malignancy is important in the management of disorders of sexual differentiation. These patients, in whom the fields of oncology, embryology, endocrinology, and genetics intersect, provide a fruitful ground for clinical investigation.", "PMID": 442352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5613", "title": "Palatal metastases in renal cell carcinoma.", "content": "Renal cell carcinoma may metastasize early in its course and sometimes before the primary lesion becomes apparent. Two cases of renal cell carcinoma with the initial manifestation of metastases to the roof of the mouth are presented. The mode of metastases to the palate is discussed.", "contents": "Palatal metastases in renal cell carcinoma. Renal cell carcinoma may metastasize early in its course and sometimes before the primary lesion becomes apparent. Two cases of renal cell carcinoma with the initial manifestation of metastases to the roof of the mouth are presented. The mode of metastases to the palate is discussed.", "PMID": 442355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5614", "title": "Polypoid granulomatous and sclerosing endophlebitis of spermatic cord: new pathologic type of schistosomal funiculitis.", "content": "A case of polypoid granulomatous and sclerosing endophlebitis of the spermatic cord due to Schistosoma hematobium is described. The lesion was not due to deposition of ova and is believed to have resulted from death of an incarcerated worm mass upstream. As such, the case represents a hitherto unknown form of schistosomal funiculitis. Vascular changes in schistosomiasis are reviewed and a clinicopathologic classification of schistosomal funiculitis is proposed.", "contents": "Polypoid granulomatous and sclerosing endophlebitis of spermatic cord: new pathologic type of schistosomal funiculitis. A case of polypoid granulomatous and sclerosing endophlebitis of the spermatic cord due to Schistosoma hematobium is described. The lesion was not due to deposition of ova and is believed to have resulted from death of an incarcerated worm mass upstream. As such, the case represents a hitherto unknown form of schistosomal funiculitis. Vascular changes in schistosomiasis are reviewed and a clinicopathologic classification of schistosomal funiculitis is proposed.", "PMID": 442357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5615", "title": "Atypical carcinoma of kidney: possibly originating from collecting duct epithelium.", "content": "An atypical carcinoma of the kidney with cellular elements of renal cell and transitional cell carcinoma is presented. The unusual histologic features suggest a lesion originating from the collecting duc t epithelium. Evaluation of atypical renal carcinoma as to origin is advocated.", "contents": "Atypical carcinoma of kidney: possibly originating from collecting duct epithelium. An atypical carcinoma of the kidney with cellular elements of renal cell and transitional cell carcinoma is presented. The unusual histologic features suggest a lesion originating from the collecting duc t epithelium. Evaluation of atypical renal carcinoma as to origin is advocated.", "PMID": 442358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5616", "title": "Primary carcinoid of prostate.", "content": "The first case of pure primary prostatic carcinoid is presented. Previous demonstration of the presence of enterochromaffin cells in the non-neoplastic prostate and in otherwise ordinary adenocarcinomas of the prostate furnishes a basis for the origin of this unique neoplasm.", "contents": "Primary carcinoid of prostate. The first case of pure primary prostatic carcinoid is presented. Previous demonstration of the presence of enterochromaffin cells in the non-neoplastic prostate and in otherwise ordinary adenocarcinomas of the prostate furnishes a basis for the origin of this unique neoplasm.", "PMID": 442359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5617", "title": "Scrotal scanning: present value and limits of interpretation.", "content": "Forty-three testicular scans have been performed on 38 patients presenting with various scrotal symptoms. Scan diagnosis correlated correctly with the clinical findings in 86 per cent of cases. The most common cause of false positive testicular scan was found to be hydrocele. The mechanism responsible for this observation has been explored in a rat model. A false negative diagnosis was made in 2 cases owing to a small retracted scrotum in 1 patient and a markedly late discovered torsion in the second.", "contents": "Scrotal scanning: present value and limits of interpretation. Forty-three testicular scans have been performed on 38 patients presenting with various scrotal symptoms. Scan diagnosis correlated correctly with the clinical findings in 86 per cent of cases. The most common cause of false positive testicular scan was found to be hydrocele. The mechanism responsible for this observation has been explored in a rat model. A false negative diagnosis was made in 2 cases owing to a small retracted scrotum in 1 patient and a markedly late discovered torsion in the second.", "PMID": 442361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5618", "title": "Computed tomography of bladder: staging of bladder cancer using low density opacification technique.", "content": "In the course of computed tomographic (CT) evaluations involving 200 patients with suspected pelvic disease we have found that scan quality is often suboptimal. A preliminary report employing a low density bladder opacification method is presented whereby an indwelling catheter is inserted to control bladder volume and facilitate the instillation of low density iodinated contrast agent (0.6% Renografin-60). The patient remains supine throughout the twenty-five-minute procedure. Observations during the CT staging and follow-up of a controlled group of 8 patients undergoing immunotherapy and/or radiation therapy for bladder carcinoma indicate that this is a simple, safe, and effective staging procedure. We have obtained reliable clinical-radiologic-pathologic corrlation as a result of careful surgical staging and biopsy, followed by open surgery and full pathologic examination. It is hoped that this information will help initiate other similar studies to determine the diagnostic accuracy of this method and thus its use in pretherapeutic evaluation of the bladder lesion and its subsequent response to treatment.", "contents": "Computed tomography of bladder: staging of bladder cancer using low density opacification technique. In the course of computed tomographic (CT) evaluations involving 200 patients with suspected pelvic disease we have found that scan quality is often suboptimal. A preliminary report employing a low density bladder opacification method is presented whereby an indwelling catheter is inserted to control bladder volume and facilitate the instillation of low density iodinated contrast agent (0.6% Renografin-60). The patient remains supine throughout the twenty-five-minute procedure. Observations during the CT staging and follow-up of a controlled group of 8 patients undergoing immunotherapy and/or radiation therapy for bladder carcinoma indicate that this is a simple, safe, and effective staging procedure. We have obtained reliable clinical-radiologic-pathologic corrlation as a result of careful surgical staging and biopsy, followed by open surgery and full pathologic examination. It is hoped that this information will help initiate other similar studies to determine the diagnostic accuracy of this method and thus its use in pretherapeutic evaluation of the bladder lesion and its subsequent response to treatment.", "PMID": 442362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5619", "title": "Cystometry and periurethral striated muscle electromyography using cold and room temperature fluid.", "content": "In evlauating patients with neurologic lesions of the spinal cord and voiding abnormalities, it would appear from this study that distention is a more physiologic stimulus to bladder contraction than relatively smaller amounts of cold fluid. While the ice water test has speed and simplicity to recommend it, it should not be used as a sole means in determining whether or not a detrusor reflex is present. It may not uncover those patients with detrusor hyperreflexia or may fail to reveal a detrusor reflex. If iced contrast medium is to be used for voiding cystography, the volumes should approximate those used for regular cystometry.", "contents": "Cystometry and periurethral striated muscle electromyography using cold and room temperature fluid. In evlauating patients with neurologic lesions of the spinal cord and voiding abnormalities, it would appear from this study that distention is a more physiologic stimulus to bladder contraction than relatively smaller amounts of cold fluid. While the ice water test has speed and simplicity to recommend it, it should not be used as a sole means in determining whether or not a detrusor reflex is present. It may not uncover those patients with detrusor hyperreflexia or may fail to reveal a detrusor reflex. If iced contrast medium is to be used for voiding cystography, the volumes should approximate those used for regular cystometry.", "PMID": 442363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5620", "title": "Anal stimulating electrodes in electromyography.", "content": "The Continaid pelvic floor stimulating electrode is useful in reception of electromyographic signals, a use for which the device was not originally conceived. I believe there is money to be saved and some clinical problems can be avoided when this plug is substituted for some others now in clinical use.", "contents": "Anal stimulating electrodes in electromyography. The Continaid pelvic floor stimulating electrode is useful in reception of electromyographic signals, a use for which the device was not originally conceived. I believe there is money to be saved and some clinical problems can be avoided when this plug is substituted for some others now in clinical use.", "PMID": 442364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5621", "title": "Ureteral endometriosis.", "content": "Ureteral endometriosis poses a problem to the clinician because of its nonspecific clinical presentation and its possible confusion with ureteral tumor. To facilitate early diagnosis and the application of appropriate treatment, the gynecologist should obtain an excretory urogram on all patients with pelvic endometriosis advanced enough to require surgery, and the urologist should suspect the disease when a premenopausal woman presents with distal ureteral obstruction of unknown cause.", "contents": "Ureteral endometriosis. Ureteral endometriosis poses a problem to the clinician because of its nonspecific clinical presentation and its possible confusion with ureteral tumor. To facilitate early diagnosis and the application of appropriate treatment, the gynecologist should obtain an excretory urogram on all patients with pelvic endometriosis advanced enough to require surgery, and the urologist should suspect the disease when a premenopausal woman presents with distal ureteral obstruction of unknown cause.", "PMID": 442368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5622", "title": "Morbidity of pelvic lymphadenectomy.", "content": "A retrospective review of 100 patients undergoing pelvic lymphadenectomy alone or with additional surgery was done to assess the morbidity and to help identify factors contributing to a high wound morbidity. Major wound morbidity occurred in 8 per cent of patients, while 16 per cent had minor wound problems. Factors contributing to wound morbidity included urinary tract infection, altered metabolic states, and the use of wound drains. Other morbid events are tabulated.", "contents": "Morbidity of pelvic lymphadenectomy. A retrospective review of 100 patients undergoing pelvic lymphadenectomy alone or with additional surgery was done to assess the morbidity and to help identify factors contributing to a high wound morbidity. Major wound morbidity occurred in 8 per cent of patients, while 16 per cent had minor wound problems. Factors contributing to wound morbidity included urinary tract infection, altered metabolic states, and the use of wound drains. Other morbid events are tabulated.", "PMID": 442369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5623", "title": "Transitional cell carcinoma of bladder in patients under thirty years of age.", "content": "Seventy-nine cases of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder in the age group under thirty years have been reviewed. The diagnosis and treatment are the same as in the older age group. The tumors are usually of low grade and low stage, but they can become more aggressive and more malignant. Contrary to previously held beliefs that transitional cell tumors in the younger age group rarely if ever recur, this series had a recurrence rate of 13.9 per cent with several patients having multiple recurrences. Therefore, the follow-up care of these patients must be vigilant and persistent.", "contents": "Transitional cell carcinoma of bladder in patients under thirty years of age. Seventy-nine cases of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder in the age group under thirty years have been reviewed. The diagnosis and treatment are the same as in the older age group. The tumors are usually of low grade and low stage, but they can become more aggressive and more malignant. Contrary to previously held beliefs that transitional cell tumors in the younger age group rarely if ever recur, this series had a recurrence rate of 13.9 per cent with several patients having multiple recurrences. Therefore, the follow-up care of these patients must be vigilant and persistent.", "PMID": 442370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5624", "title": "Insulin-induced growth hormone responses in patients with prostatic carcinoma.", "content": "Insulin-induced pituitary growth hormone (GH) response was studied in 12 patients with prostatic carcinoma. Three patients demonstrated significant abnormal GH release associated with concentrations which remained on a high plateau during the study. The patients subsequently presented clinically with rapidly progressing disease. Such observations are compatible with the viewpoint that abnormally high or low GH levels systemically present, may be associated with a particularly bad clinical prognosis. Further studies will clarify this relationship.", "contents": "Insulin-induced growth hormone responses in patients with prostatic carcinoma. Insulin-induced pituitary growth hormone (GH) response was studied in 12 patients with prostatic carcinoma. Three patients demonstrated significant abnormal GH release associated with concentrations which remained on a high plateau during the study. The patients subsequently presented clinically with rapidly progressing disease. Such observations are compatible with the viewpoint that abnormally high or low GH levels systemically present, may be associated with a particularly bad clinical prognosis. Further studies will clarify this relationship.", "PMID": 442371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5625", "title": "Partial tears of prostatomembranous urethra in children.", "content": "Five boys having sustained a pelvic fracture were found to have incomplete tears of the prostatomembranous urethra. Three patients were treated with suprapubic cystostomy drainage alone and fared better than 2 who were treated with urethral catheter stenting and drainage. A recommendation is made for the \"hands-off\" approach to the evaluation and management of membranous urethral injuries.", "contents": "Partial tears of prostatomembranous urethra in children. Five boys having sustained a pelvic fracture were found to have incomplete tears of the prostatomembranous urethra. Three patients were treated with suprapubic cystostomy drainage alone and fared better than 2 who were treated with urethral catheter stenting and drainage. A recommendation is made for the \"hands-off\" approach to the evaluation and management of membranous urethral injuries.", "PMID": 442372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5626", "title": "Peyronie disease: surgical treatment with muscular aponeurosis.", "content": "A new method for surgical correction of Peyronie disease by grafting autologous muscular aponeurosis was tried in 4 patients. Early results were encouraging, with disappearance of penile curvature and of pain on erection. The urologist can perform the operation without the assistance a plastic surgeon must usually give when dermal grafts are used.", "contents": "Peyronie disease: surgical treatment with muscular aponeurosis. A new method for surgical correction of Peyronie disease by grafting autologous muscular aponeurosis was tried in 4 patients. Early results were encouraging, with disappearance of penile curvature and of pain on erection. The urologist can perform the operation without the assistance a plastic surgeon must usually give when dermal grafts are used.", "PMID": 442373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5627", "title": "Insufficient penile erection due to abnormal drainage of cavernous bodies.", "content": "Four men were referred for incomplete erection of the penis. All had abnormal venous outflow from the cavernous bodies: 1 iatrogenic fistula from the cavernous body to the glans, 1 congenital fistula from the cavernous body to the glans, 1 with several congenital large veins connecting the interior of the cavernous body to the outer veins, and 1 who suddenly lost the ability for erection was found to have a venous leak through scar tissue in the tunica albuginea. They were all operated on and the visible leaks closed. Three of them were functionally greatly improved.", "contents": "Insufficient penile erection due to abnormal drainage of cavernous bodies. Four men were referred for incomplete erection of the penis. All had abnormal venous outflow from the cavernous bodies: 1 iatrogenic fistula from the cavernous body to the glans, 1 congenital fistula from the cavernous body to the glans, 1 with several congenital large veins connecting the interior of the cavernous body to the outer veins, and 1 who suddenly lost the ability for erection was found to have a venous leak through scar tissue in the tunica albuginea. They were all operated on and the visible leaks closed. Three of them were functionally greatly improved.", "PMID": 442374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5628", "title": "Double-ended pigtail ureteral stent: useful modification to single end ureteral stent.", "content": "A newly created ureteral stenting catheter of double-ended pigtail design is introduced. The pigtail design at both ends maintains the catheter in place by serving as a solid anchoring device, both intravesically and within the renal pelvis; upward or downward migration of the stent is thus prevented. It is designed also to minimize trigonal irritation. The catheter can be introduced easily either cystoendoscopically or through a percutaneous antegrade route, or by a combination of both methods. It offers the additional advantage of being readily available from an inexpensive stock source; it may be quickly and easily custom made and shaped for any ureter by the physician immediately prior to its insertion. It thus avoids having to have premanufactured, more expensive ureteral stents of different lengths. Open surgery for upper urinary tract decompression can thus be avoided.", "contents": "Double-ended pigtail ureteral stent: useful modification to single end ureteral stent. A newly created ureteral stenting catheter of double-ended pigtail design is introduced. The pigtail design at both ends maintains the catheter in place by serving as a solid anchoring device, both intravesically and within the renal pelvis; upward or downward migration of the stent is thus prevented. It is designed also to minimize trigonal irritation. The catheter can be introduced easily either cystoendoscopically or through a percutaneous antegrade route, or by a combination of both methods. It offers the additional advantage of being readily available from an inexpensive stock source; it may be quickly and easily custom made and shaped for any ureter by the physician immediately prior to its insertion. It thus avoids having to have premanufactured, more expensive ureteral stents of different lengths. Open surgery for upper urinary tract decompression can thus be avoided.", "PMID": 442376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5629", "title": "Transvesical intussusception (Lich) ureterectomy.", "content": "Intussusception ureterectomy has been used to excise prophylactically the distal ureter in 10 patients with carcinoma of the renal pelvis. The procedure has proved safe and expeditious, as well as permitting more precise excision of the surrounding vesical mucosa.", "contents": "Transvesical intussusception (Lich) ureterectomy. Intussusception ureterectomy has been used to excise prophylactically the distal ureter in 10 patients with carcinoma of the renal pelvis. The procedure has proved safe and expeditious, as well as permitting more precise excision of the surrounding vesical mucosa.", "PMID": 442377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5630", "title": "Renal arteriovenous fistulas secondary to bilateral renal cell carcinoma.", "content": "Arteriovenous fistulas commonly occur in cases of renal cell carcinoma, but they rarely produce sufficient left-to-right shunting to cause decompensation of the cardiovascular system. A case of refractory hypertension and congestive heart failure secondary to arteriovenous shunting in bilateral renal cell carcinoma is presented. Renal blood flow studies at the time of staged nephrectomy, together with measurements of cardiac output, established parenchymal arteriovenous shunting as the cause of the patient's cardiovascular symptoms. Subsequent nephrectomy achieved a marked clinical and symptomatic improvement. The causes, diagnosis, and treatment of arteriovenous fistulas are discussed. Although nephrectomy offers dramatic resolution of clinical symptoms, long-term survival depends on the behavior of the neoplasm.", "contents": "Renal arteriovenous fistulas secondary to bilateral renal cell carcinoma. Arteriovenous fistulas commonly occur in cases of renal cell carcinoma, but they rarely produce sufficient left-to-right shunting to cause decompensation of the cardiovascular system. A case of refractory hypertension and congestive heart failure secondary to arteriovenous shunting in bilateral renal cell carcinoma is presented. Renal blood flow studies at the time of staged nephrectomy, together with measurements of cardiac output, established parenchymal arteriovenous shunting as the cause of the patient's cardiovascular symptoms. Subsequent nephrectomy achieved a marked clinical and symptomatic improvement. The causes, diagnosis, and treatment of arteriovenous fistulas are discussed. Although nephrectomy offers dramatic resolution of clinical symptoms, long-term survival depends on the behavior of the neoplasm.", "PMID": 442378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5631", "title": "Vasovasostomy: evaluation of success.", "content": "Our review of 2,685 cases of vasovasostomy reported between 1948 and 1977 shows that many different surgical techniques can be successful. However, various reporting practices have made case comparisons difficult. We suggest a standardized method for reporting vasovasostomy results.", "contents": "Vasovasostomy: evaluation of success. Our review of 2,685 cases of vasovasostomy reported between 1948 and 1977 shows that many different surgical techniques can be successful. However, various reporting practices have made case comparisons difficult. We suggest a standardized method for reporting vasovasostomy results.", "PMID": 442379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5632", "title": "Alteration of semen quality in dogs after creation of varicocele.", "content": "A left vein varicocele was created in male dogs by partially obstructing the left renal vein medial to the entrance of the left internal spermatic vein. Eight dogs had semen parameters determined preoperatively (2 times/week for five weeks) and postoperatively (2 times/week for twelve weeks). Semen quality was altered by the experimental varicocele. A significant decrease in sperm count, motility, per cent viable, and per cent oval sperm were noted. Semen volume was not affected. The possible chemical influence of serotonin is mentioned. Testosterone levels were unchanged by the varicocele. Histologic findings in the left and right testicles are mentioned before and after creation of the varicocele.", "contents": "Alteration of semen quality in dogs after creation of varicocele. A left vein varicocele was created in male dogs by partially obstructing the left renal vein medial to the entrance of the left internal spermatic vein. Eight dogs had semen parameters determined preoperatively (2 times/week for five weeks) and postoperatively (2 times/week for twelve weeks). Semen quality was altered by the experimental varicocele. A significant decrease in sperm count, motility, per cent viable, and per cent oval sperm were noted. Semen volume was not affected. The possible chemical influence of serotonin is mentioned. Testosterone levels were unchanged by the varicocele. Histologic findings in the left and right testicles are mentioned before and after creation of the varicocele.", "PMID": 442380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5633", "title": "Urinary tract obstruction secondary to cerebrospinal fluid cysts.", "content": "Bilateral hydroureteronephrosis secondary to mechanical kinking of the ureteral-conduit anastomosis or ureteral compression caused by a large intra-abdominal cerebrospinal fluid cyst should be considered in patients who have ventriculoperitoneal shunts, abdominal ascites, and deteriorating upper tracts. Therapy directed at correction of the cerebrospinal fluid cyst should be sufficient to correct the urologic dysfunction.", "contents": "Urinary tract obstruction secondary to cerebrospinal fluid cysts. Bilateral hydroureteronephrosis secondary to mechanical kinking of the ureteral-conduit anastomosis or ureteral compression caused by a large intra-abdominal cerebrospinal fluid cyst should be considered in patients who have ventriculoperitoneal shunts, abdominal ascites, and deteriorating upper tracts. Therapy directed at correction of the cerebrospinal fluid cyst should be sufficient to correct the urologic dysfunction.", "PMID": 442381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5634", "title": "Retrocaval ureter in Turner syndrome.", "content": "Turner syndrome is commonly associated with urinary tract anomalies. A second case is reported of its unusual association with retrocaval ureter and massive hydronephrosis.", "contents": "Retrocaval ureter in Turner syndrome. Turner syndrome is commonly associated with urinary tract anomalies. A second case is reported of its unusual association with retrocaval ureter and massive hydronephrosis.", "PMID": 442382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5635", "title": "Leg edema as complication of bladder overdistention.", "content": "A case of massive leg edema resulting from overdistention is described. Remission of symptoms followed bladder decompression. Venous obstruction as the etiologic factor is supported by impedance plethysmography data before and after bladder decompression.", "contents": "Leg edema as complication of bladder overdistention. A case of massive leg edema resulting from overdistention is described. Remission of symptoms followed bladder decompression. Venous obstruction as the etiologic factor is supported by impedance plethysmography data before and after bladder decompression.", "PMID": 442383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5636", "title": "Ureterocele--a familial congenital anomaly.", "content": "Nonidentical twins with ectopic ureteroceles, and duplication of the urinary collecting system in two more members of the same family are described. This incidence may indicate that inborn anomalies of the urinary tract may have a genetic background.", "contents": "Ureterocele--a familial congenital anomaly. Nonidentical twins with ectopic ureteroceles, and duplication of the urinary collecting system in two more members of the same family are described. This incidence may indicate that inborn anomalies of the urinary tract may have a genetic background.", "PMID": 442384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5637", "title": "Bladder and ureteral displacement complication of total replacement hip arthroplasty.", "content": "An unusual case of bladder and lower ureteral displacement owing to extruded cement in the pelvis through the acetabulum after total hip arthroplasty is described. The literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Bladder and ureteral displacement complication of total replacement hip arthroplasty. An unusual case of bladder and lower ureteral displacement owing to extruded cement in the pelvis through the acetabulum after total hip arthroplasty is described. The literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 442385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5638", "title": "Transitional cell carcinoma: cause of refractory cancer of prostate.", "content": "Four cases with a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of the prostate are presented in which a histologic pattern of adenocarcinoma mixed with transitional cell carcinoma developed subsequently. Suggestions are made regarding the pathogenesis and diagnosis.", "contents": "Transitional cell carcinoma: cause of refractory cancer of prostate. Four cases with a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of the prostate are presented in which a histologic pattern of adenocarcinoma mixed with transitional cell carcinoma developed subsequently. Suggestions are made regarding the pathogenesis and diagnosis.", "PMID": 442386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5639", "title": "Bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to kidney. Detection by urine sediment cytology.", "content": "A fifty-seven-year-old man with bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma is described. There was clinical suspicion of metastatic involvement of the kidneys. Urine sediment cytology revealed neoplastic squamous cells consistent with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. Subsequent autopsy confirmed the renal involvement. In the right kidney the tumor had invaded and breached the renal pelvic wall. It is suggested that urine sediment cytology should be considered a useful diagnostic procedure in this clinicopathologic setting.", "contents": "Bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to kidney. Detection by urine sediment cytology. A fifty-seven-year-old man with bronchogenic squamous cell carcinoma is described. There was clinical suspicion of metastatic involvement of the kidneys. Urine sediment cytology revealed neoplastic squamous cells consistent with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. Subsequent autopsy confirmed the renal involvement. In the right kidney the tumor had invaded and breached the renal pelvic wall. It is suggested that urine sediment cytology should be considered a useful diagnostic procedure in this clinicopathologic setting.", "PMID": 442387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5640", "title": "Leiomyosarcoma of urinary bladder.", "content": "Leiomyosarcoma of the bladder remains a rare diagnosis with poor therapeutic results. The available data continue to support surgical intervention as the mainstay of therapy, although other modalities have been employed with varying success. A case report and review of the literature with current treatment alternatives are presented.", "contents": "Leiomyosarcoma of urinary bladder. Leiomyosarcoma of the bladder remains a rare diagnosis with poor therapeutic results. The available data continue to support surgical intervention as the mainstay of therapy, although other modalities have been employed with varying success. A case report and review of the literature with current treatment alternatives are presented.", "PMID": 442388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5641", "title": "Pararenal pseudocyst (urinoma) as complication of percutaneous nephrostomy.", "content": "Percutaneous nephrostomy is a well-recognized procedure utilized by the radiologist both as a temporary drainage method for urinary tract obstruction and as the elective therapeutic modality in selected pathologies of the urinary tract. We report a complication not previously mentioned in the literature, urinoma formation.", "contents": "Pararenal pseudocyst (urinoma) as complication of percutaneous nephrostomy. Percutaneous nephrostomy is a well-recognized procedure utilized by the radiologist both as a temporary drainage method for urinary tract obstruction and as the elective therapeutic modality in selected pathologies of the urinary tract. We report a complication not previously mentioned in the literature, urinoma formation.", "PMID": 442390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5642", "title": "Renal pseudoenlargement due to masses in posterior pararenal space.", "content": "Two patients presenting with acute flank pain had unilateral smooth enlargement of a kidney on excretory urography with associated attenuation of the collecting system. This presentation suggested intrinsic renal disease, but sonography showed the urographic findings to be due in each case to a mass in the posterior pararenal space. By displacing the kidney anteriorly and away from the x-ray film, such masses will result in radiographic enlargement of the renal outline, i.e., renal pseudoenlargement. The distinction between true renal enlargement and pseudoenlargement may be made by sonography.", "contents": "Renal pseudoenlargement due to masses in posterior pararenal space. Two patients presenting with acute flank pain had unilateral smooth enlargement of a kidney on excretory urography with associated attenuation of the collecting system. This presentation suggested intrinsic renal disease, but sonography showed the urographic findings to be due in each case to a mass in the posterior pararenal space. By displacing the kidney anteriorly and away from the x-ray film, such masses will result in radiographic enlargement of the renal outline, i.e., renal pseudoenlargement. The distinction between true renal enlargement and pseudoenlargement may be made by sonography.", "PMID": 442391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5643", "title": "Spinal hematoma compressing cauda equina.", "content": "Epidural and subdural spinal hematomas are unusual complications of diagnostic lumbar punctures. A renal allograft recipient on anticoagulant therapy underwent lumbar puncture. Urinary retention and evidence of an S2, S3, and S4 neurologic deficit developed subsequently. A myelogram showed a defect of the posterior lumbosacral spinal canal. Urodynamic investigation demonstrated normal sympathetic innervation of the proximal urethra and impaired parasympathetic and pudendal innervation of the detrusor and external urethral sphincter, respectively.", "contents": "Spinal hematoma compressing cauda equina. Epidural and subdural spinal hematomas are unusual complications of diagnostic lumbar punctures. A renal allograft recipient on anticoagulant therapy underwent lumbar puncture. Urinary retention and evidence of an S2, S3, and S4 neurologic deficit developed subsequently. A myelogram showed a defect of the posterior lumbosacral spinal canal. Urodynamic investigation demonstrated normal sympathetic innervation of the proximal urethra and impaired parasympathetic and pudendal innervation of the detrusor and external urethral sphincter, respectively.", "PMID": 442392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5644", "title": "[Characteristics of clinical picture, diagnosis and surgical treatment of hypoplasia of the thoracoabdominal portion of the aorta].", "content": "The experience with diagnosis and surgical treatment of 10 patients with a rare disease--hypoplasia is set forth in the article. According to the author's data this disease is always complicated with aortoarteritis with the involvement of the renal and visceral arteries. It is suggested to subdivide hypoplasia into several types: infrarenal hypoplasia, interrenal and supradiaphragmatic ones; hypoplasia with preseved orthograde blood flow and without the latter, with unilateral and bilateral involvement of renal arteries. 8 patients were operated upon. Errors of surgical tactics made when operating the first 3 patients are discussed. The other 5 patients showed a good effect of the operation. There were no fatal outcomes.", "contents": "[Characteristics of clinical picture, diagnosis and surgical treatment of hypoplasia of the thoracoabdominal portion of the aorta]. The experience with diagnosis and surgical treatment of 10 patients with a rare disease--hypoplasia is set forth in the article. According to the author's data this disease is always complicated with aortoarteritis with the involvement of the renal and visceral arteries. It is suggested to subdivide hypoplasia into several types: infrarenal hypoplasia, interrenal and supradiaphragmatic ones; hypoplasia with preseved orthograde blood flow and without the latter, with unilateral and bilateral involvement of renal arteries. 8 patients were operated upon. Errors of surgical tactics made when operating the first 3 patients are discussed. The other 5 patients showed a good effect of the operation. There were no fatal outcomes.", "PMID": 442397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5645", "title": "[Perforation of gastroduodenal ulcers and pulmonary tuberculosis].", "content": "17 observations of the perforation of gastroduodenal ulcer in pulmonary tuberculosis cases are analysed. Most of the patients were males, aged over 50, with protracted chronic forms of tuberculosis. In all cases the suturing of perforation was carried out. 9 patients died. The conclusion has been drawn that a massive antibacterial therapy, which should be carried out in specialized medical institutions, is imperiable.", "contents": "[Perforation of gastroduodenal ulcers and pulmonary tuberculosis]. 17 observations of the perforation of gastroduodenal ulcer in pulmonary tuberculosis cases are analysed. Most of the patients were males, aged over 50, with protracted chronic forms of tuberculosis. In all cases the suturing of perforation was carried out. 9 patients died. The conclusion has been drawn that a massive antibacterial therapy, which should be carried out in specialized medical institutions, is imperiable.", "PMID": 442398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5646", "title": "[Etiology of acute gastric perforations following suturing of gastroduodenal ulcers].", "content": "Data concerning 6 patients who underwent suturing of perforating ulcer and developed an acute stomach perforation postoperatively (4 cases) and acute necrosis of the stomach wall at the site of the suture (2 cases), are analyzed. Besides, the results of experiments on 10 animals are set forth. The author has come to the conclusion that acute thrombophlebitis of the subserous stomach veins constitutes the cause of the above-mentioned complications.", "contents": "[Etiology of acute gastric perforations following suturing of gastroduodenal ulcers]. Data concerning 6 patients who underwent suturing of perforating ulcer and developed an acute stomach perforation postoperatively (4 cases) and acute necrosis of the stomach wall at the site of the suture (2 cases), are analyzed. Besides, the results of experiments on 10 animals are set forth. The author has come to the conclusion that acute thrombophlebitis of the subserous stomach veins constitutes the cause of the above-mentioned complications.", "PMID": 442399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5647", "title": "[Late results of surgical treatment in carcinoma of the cardia of the stomach].", "content": "The author studied the findings obtained in 27 patients operated upon for carcinoma of the cardia of the stomach with/without involvement of the esophagus, who survived more than 5 years after radical operations. 16 patients survived more than 10 years, 4 of them--20 years. The common prognostic factors, i. e. metastases, anatomic type of the tumor and its size are analysed.", "contents": "[Late results of surgical treatment in carcinoma of the cardia of the stomach]. The author studied the findings obtained in 27 patients operated upon for carcinoma of the cardia of the stomach with/without involvement of the esophagus, who survived more than 5 years after radical operations. 16 patients survived more than 10 years, 4 of them--20 years. The common prognostic factors, i. e. metastases, anatomic type of the tumor and its size are analysed.", "PMID": 442400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5648", "title": "[Surgical treatment of vasorenal hypertension in non-specific aorto-arteritis].", "content": "An injury to the renal arteries was found in 119 patients with non-specific aorto-arteritis and high arterial hypertension by means of angiography. 66 patients were operated upon (75 operations). The reconstruction of one renal artery was carried out upon 31 patients, 30 patients underwent the reconstruction of both renal arteries. 6 patients were subjected to the primary nephrectomy, and 6 others to the secondary one. The blood flow along the aorta and visceral arteries was restored in 31 cases in one-stage operation together with the reconstruction of the renal arteries. In recent years the postoperative mortality has constituted 4.3%. Excellent and good results have been obtained in 83.6% of cases.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of vasorenal hypertension in non-specific aorto-arteritis]. An injury to the renal arteries was found in 119 patients with non-specific aorto-arteritis and high arterial hypertension by means of angiography. 66 patients were operated upon (75 operations). The reconstruction of one renal artery was carried out upon 31 patients, 30 patients underwent the reconstruction of both renal arteries. 6 patients were subjected to the primary nephrectomy, and 6 others to the secondary one. The blood flow along the aorta and visceral arteries was restored in 31 cases in one-stage operation together with the reconstruction of the renal arteries. In recent years the postoperative mortality has constituted 4.3%. Excellent and good results have been obtained in 83.6% of cases.", "PMID": 442401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5649", "title": "[Laser therapy in surgical diseases].", "content": "Laser therapy proved to be effective in the treatment of patients with trophic ulcers, deforming arthrosis of the I and II degree, and particularly, in early stages of inflammatory processes (infiltrative stage) and in some surgical diseases, as well. So, there are all the grounds for further and more broad and profound experimental and clinical study of laser therapy in various diseases, surgical ones, in particular.", "contents": "[Laser therapy in surgical diseases]. Laser therapy proved to be effective in the treatment of patients with trophic ulcers, deforming arthrosis of the I and II degree, and particularly, in early stages of inflammatory processes (infiltrative stage) and in some surgical diseases, as well. So, there are all the grounds for further and more broad and profound experimental and clinical study of laser therapy in various diseases, surgical ones, in particular.", "PMID": 442402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5650", "title": "[Early postoperative peritonitis].", "content": "Data concerning immunologic changes in postoperative peritonitis and the most common causes of their occurrence are set forth. The report is grounded on the observation over 112 patients and on the experiments on 60 dogs. The depression of the immunoreactivity and sensitization of the organism and its autoallergization with tissue decay products against the background of postoperative peritonitis have been found. It is advisable to use the desensitizing and detoxicating therapy together with relaparotomy and correction of metabolic disorders in postoperative peritonitis.", "contents": "[Early postoperative peritonitis]. Data concerning immunologic changes in postoperative peritonitis and the most common causes of their occurrence are set forth. The report is grounded on the observation over 112 patients and on the experiments on 60 dogs. The depression of the immunoreactivity and sensitization of the organism and its autoallergization with tissue decay products against the background of postoperative peritonitis have been found. It is advisable to use the desensitizing and detoxicating therapy together with relaparotomy and correction of metabolic disorders in postoperative peritonitis.", "PMID": 442403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5651", "title": "[Preoperative care and accumulation of non-active hemoglobin derivatives in blood of patients].", "content": "A study of the concentration of met- and sulfhemoglobine in patients on admission to the clinic and at the end of the preoperative management and treatment was carried out upon 35 surgical cases. The medicamentous therapy included the drugs favouring the restoration of methemoglobin (10.20% and 40% glucose solutions, ascorbic acid etc.). Therewith the concentration of non-active hemoglobine derivatives dropped at the end of the preoperative management and treatment.", "contents": "[Preoperative care and accumulation of non-active hemoglobin derivatives in blood of patients]. A study of the concentration of met- and sulfhemoglobine in patients on admission to the clinic and at the end of the preoperative management and treatment was carried out upon 35 surgical cases. The medicamentous therapy included the drugs favouring the restoration of methemoglobin (10.20% and 40% glucose solutions, ascorbic acid etc.). Therewith the concentration of non-active hemoglobine derivatives dropped at the end of the preoperative management and treatment.", "PMID": 442404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5652", "title": "[Surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinoccocosis].", "content": "Clinical observations concerning the surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinococcosis in 54 patients are set forth in the paper. Various surgical interventions were carried out upon 46 patients: 16--for unilateral multiple echinicoccosis, 30--for bilateral multiple echinococcosis; in 8 patients pulmonary echinococcosis was combined with liver injury. From the authors' experience the surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinococcosis is an effective method. Good clinico-roentgenologic results were found in 44 out of 46 patients operated upon. 2 patients died from cardio-pulmonary insufficiency in the early postoperative period.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinoccocosis]. Clinical observations concerning the surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinococcosis in 54 patients are set forth in the paper. Various surgical interventions were carried out upon 46 patients: 16--for unilateral multiple echinicoccosis, 30--for bilateral multiple echinococcosis; in 8 patients pulmonary echinococcosis was combined with liver injury. From the authors' experience the surgical treatment of multiple pulmonary echinococcosis is an effective method. Good clinico-roentgenologic results were found in 44 out of 46 patients operated upon. 2 patients died from cardio-pulmonary insufficiency in the early postoperative period.", "PMID": 442405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5653", "title": "[Effect of orotic acid on regeneration of the lungs].", "content": "The effect of orotic acid on the development of compensatory pulmonary hypertrophy has been studied in the clinic and in the experiments (71 patients, and 349 rats) carried out with the use of morphologic, biochemical cytochemical, immunologic and clinical methods, and also through autoradiography. The results of the study prove the effect of the drug upon the pulmonary regeneration. Experimental findings have shown that behind the stimulating effect of the drug there is the activation of the synthesis of nucleinic acids, the rise of the mitotic activity of the interalveolar membranes cells of the lung remnants. An essential increase of the lymphocytic dehydrogenase activity of the peripheral blood occurred in response to the effect of the drug.", "contents": "[Effect of orotic acid on regeneration of the lungs]. The effect of orotic acid on the development of compensatory pulmonary hypertrophy has been studied in the clinic and in the experiments (71 patients, and 349 rats) carried out with the use of morphologic, biochemical cytochemical, immunologic and clinical methods, and also through autoradiography. The results of the study prove the effect of the drug upon the pulmonary regeneration. Experimental findings have shown that behind the stimulating effect of the drug there is the activation of the synthesis of nucleinic acids, the rise of the mitotic activity of the interalveolar membranes cells of the lung remnants. An essential increase of the lymphocytic dehydrogenase activity of the peripheral blood occurred in response to the effect of the drug.", "PMID": 442406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5654", "title": "[Ectopia cordia].", "content": "9 children aged from 40 hours to 7 years were operated upon. The peculiarity of the surgical intervention in a newborn consists in the difficult arising at the correction of the position of the heart. Both newborns died to the heart defects incompatible with life. The operations carried out upon elder children (7) were successful, the difficulty derived from the necessity to form a thoracic frame over the transposed heart. The late results are good.", "contents": "[Ectopia cordia]. 9 children aged from 40 hours to 7 years were operated upon. The peculiarity of the surgical intervention in a newborn consists in the difficult arising at the correction of the position of the heart. Both newborns died to the heart defects incompatible with life. The operations carried out upon elder children (7) were successful, the difficulty derived from the necessity to form a thoracic frame over the transposed heart. The late results are good.", "PMID": 442410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5655", "title": "[Status of the cardiovascular system in children with acute diffused peritonitis].", "content": "67 patients with acute diffused peritonitis aged from 2 to 15 years were examined. The arterial and central venous blood pressure, contractile function of the myocardium, peripheral and central blood flow were estimated. It has been found that functional shifts of the cardiovascular system occur at the early stage of the disease and advances as it develops.", "contents": "[Status of the cardiovascular system in children with acute diffused peritonitis]. 67 patients with acute diffused peritonitis aged from 2 to 15 years were examined. The arterial and central venous blood pressure, contractile function of the myocardium, peripheral and central blood flow were estimated. It has been found that functional shifts of the cardiovascular system occur at the early stage of the disease and advances as it develops.", "PMID": 442411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5656", "title": "[Radioisotopic diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum in children].", "content": "The serial scintiphotography following intravenous injection of Tc99m-ertechnetate was used for examination of 50 children aged from 11 months to 14 years. The method is founded on the Tc99m-pertechnetate property of selective accumulation in the gastric mucous membrane and in Meckel's diverticulum when the latter contains the ectopic gastric mucous membrane. The inflamed diverticulum can accumulate the radionuclide, as well. Meckel's diverticulum was suspected in 7 children during examination; in 6 of them Meckel's diverticulum was found peroperatively, and in one case there was enterocyst of the ileum.", "contents": "[Radioisotopic diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum in children]. The serial scintiphotography following intravenous injection of Tc99m-ertechnetate was used for examination of 50 children aged from 11 months to 14 years. The method is founded on the Tc99m-pertechnetate property of selective accumulation in the gastric mucous membrane and in Meckel's diverticulum when the latter contains the ectopic gastric mucous membrane. The inflamed diverticulum can accumulate the radionuclide, as well. Meckel's diverticulum was suspected in 7 children during examination; in 6 of them Meckel's diverticulum was found peroperatively, and in one case there was enterocyst of the ileum.", "PMID": 442412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5657", "title": "[Failure of anastomosis after resection of the small intestine in children].", "content": "The authors observed the described complication in 25 out of 350 children who had underwent and urgen resection of the small intestine (7.1%). 18 children died (72%). An analysis of the clinical picture of the anastomosis failure is set forth. The errors admitted at the repeated operation and treatment are discussed. Some practical recommendations are suggested.", "contents": "[Failure of anastomosis after resection of the small intestine in children]. The authors observed the described complication in 25 out of 350 children who had underwent and urgen resection of the small intestine (7.1%). 18 children died (72%). An analysis of the clinical picture of the anastomosis failure is set forth. The errors admitted at the repeated operation and treatment are discussed. Some practical recommendations are suggested.", "PMID": 442413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5658", "title": "[Diversion of the venous blood from the adrenal gland and the kidney into the portal system in the treatment of malignant arterial hypertension].", "content": "A method of the portalization of the adrenal and renal blood has been devised in the experiment on 47 cadavers. The method consists in the formation of the left renoportal venous anastomosis combined with contralateral adrenalectomy. The method was successfully applied in the clinic upon 9 patients with severe and malignant arterial hypertension of various etiology. The technique of the operation is described. A detailed description of one observation of a successful use of the method, applied in malignant clinical course of arterial hypertension, illustrates the effectiveness of this operation. The indications for this operation are set forth.", "contents": "[Diversion of the venous blood from the adrenal gland and the kidney into the portal system in the treatment of malignant arterial hypertension]. A method of the portalization of the adrenal and renal blood has been devised in the experiment on 47 cadavers. The method consists in the formation of the left renoportal venous anastomosis combined with contralateral adrenalectomy. The method was successfully applied in the clinic upon 9 patients with severe and malignant arterial hypertension of various etiology. The technique of the operation is described. A detailed description of one observation of a successful use of the method, applied in malignant clinical course of arterial hypertension, illustrates the effectiveness of this operation. The indications for this operation are set forth.", "PMID": 442419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5659", "title": "[Functional and morphological changes in the nerves following injury due to traction mechanism (experimental and morphological studies)].", "content": "In acute and chronic experiments on 52 animals (rabbits and dogs), carried out by means of neurophysiologic and neurohistologic methods, the authors have studied functional and histologic changes in the nerves following a one-step forced traction. Traction injuries have been found to cause early trophic disorders, persistent and long-lasting alterations of the nerve conductability and excitability. Some considerable retrograde changes in the nerves and related segments of the spinal cord have been noted together with the delay of the resorption of the decay products of the axons and the myelin sheath in the peripheral nerve fragment. The severity degree of the alterations depends on the degree of the traction.", "contents": "[Functional and morphological changes in the nerves following injury due to traction mechanism (experimental and morphological studies)]. In acute and chronic experiments on 52 animals (rabbits and dogs), carried out by means of neurophysiologic and neurohistologic methods, the authors have studied functional and histologic changes in the nerves following a one-step forced traction. Traction injuries have been found to cause early trophic disorders, persistent and long-lasting alterations of the nerve conductability and excitability. Some considerable retrograde changes in the nerves and related segments of the spinal cord have been noted together with the delay of the resorption of the decay products of the axons and the myelin sheath in the peripheral nerve fragment. The severity degree of the alterations depends on the degree of the traction.", "PMID": 442421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5660", "title": "[Renin activity and functional status of the adrenal cortex in surgical intervention during ketamine anesthesia].", "content": "The renin activity and gluco- and mineralocorticoid adrenalocortical function were studied in 22 patients operated mainly on abdominal organs under the conditions of ketamine anesthesia. As noted, the ketamine injection followed with hypertension and tachicardia does not give rise to the renin activity and to the 11-OKS and aldosterone blood levels, as well. An evident trend to the increase of the concentration of the adrenocortical hormones, together with the occurrence of hypokemia and progressive hyperglycemia have been traced throughout the anesthesia and operation.", "contents": "[Renin activity and functional status of the adrenal cortex in surgical intervention during ketamine anesthesia]. The renin activity and gluco- and mineralocorticoid adrenalocortical function were studied in 22 patients operated mainly on abdominal organs under the conditions of ketamine anesthesia. As noted, the ketamine injection followed with hypertension and tachicardia does not give rise to the renin activity and to the 11-OKS and aldosterone blood levels, as well. An evident trend to the increase of the concentration of the adrenocortical hormones, together with the occurrence of hypokemia and progressive hyperglycemia have been traced throughout the anesthesia and operation.", "PMID": 442425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5661", "title": "[Characteristics of combined nitrous oxide nacrosis and premedication with phentanyl and droperidol or phentanyl and seduxen in patients with pain syndrome caused by blood vessel diseases of the lower extremities].", "content": "66 patients were subjected to nitrous oxide narcosis after various types of premedication. The premedication with phentanyl and seduxen or droperidol proved to be more effective than the routine premidication. The authors consider endotracheal narcosis with nitrous oxide combined with fractional injections of phentanyl and seduxen of phentanyl and droperidol to be a method of choice.", "contents": "[Characteristics of combined nitrous oxide nacrosis and premedication with phentanyl and droperidol or phentanyl and seduxen in patients with pain syndrome caused by blood vessel diseases of the lower extremities]. 66 patients were subjected to nitrous oxide narcosis after various types of premedication. The premedication with phentanyl and seduxen or droperidol proved to be more effective than the routine premidication. The authors consider endotracheal narcosis with nitrous oxide combined with fractional injections of phentanyl and seduxen of phentanyl and droperidol to be a method of choice.", "PMID": 442426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5662", "title": "[Diagnostic value of thermography in stomach diseases].", "content": "According to the authors' data positive thermographic findings have been noted in gastritis and gastric and duodenal ulcer cases, mostly in complicated forms of the disease or in aggravation of the inflammatory process. Malignant neoplasms of the stomach are most often mirrored in the thermograms as zones of increased radiation adequate to the localization and spreading of the focus of the lesion (77%). A stable character of the pathologic thermoasymmetry in malignant neoplasms, as it is found in repeated studies, allows to make a differential diagnosis with inflammatory diseases subsiding with the treatment, which gets confirmed through the decline or vanishing of pathologic thermographic signs found in the repeated studies.", "contents": "[Diagnostic value of thermography in stomach diseases]. According to the authors' data positive thermographic findings have been noted in gastritis and gastric and duodenal ulcer cases, mostly in complicated forms of the disease or in aggravation of the inflammatory process. Malignant neoplasms of the stomach are most often mirrored in the thermograms as zones of increased radiation adequate to the localization and spreading of the focus of the lesion (77%). A stable character of the pathologic thermoasymmetry in malignant neoplasms, as it is found in repeated studies, allows to make a differential diagnosis with inflammatory diseases subsiding with the treatment, which gets confirmed through the decline or vanishing of pathologic thermographic signs found in the repeated studies.", "PMID": 442429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5663", "title": "[Liver function disorders and hepatic insufficiency in diseases of the abdominal cavity organs].", "content": "The tissue respiration and oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondrial preparations of the liver were studied by means of the polarography in 14 cases of peptic ulcer localised in the stomach and the duodenum and 46 cases of cancer of the stomach. The deterioration of the indices of oxidative phosphorylation in the liver (decrease of the respiratory control, desintegration of the respiration and phosphorylation processes) has been found to occur with the development of the tumor process.", "contents": "[Liver function disorders and hepatic insufficiency in diseases of the abdominal cavity organs]. The tissue respiration and oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondrial preparations of the liver were studied by means of the polarography in 14 cases of peptic ulcer localised in the stomach and the duodenum and 46 cases of cancer of the stomach. The deterioration of the indices of oxidative phosphorylation in the liver (decrease of the respiratory control, desintegration of the respiration and phosphorylation processes) has been found to occur with the development of the tumor process.", "PMID": 442431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5664", "title": "[Effectiveness of cryogenic action in experimental liver resection].", "content": "The traditional ligature methods were added with freezing of the left hepatic lobe resection line in order to block up parenchymatous bleeding and cholerhagia in atypical resection of the liver. Alterations in the enzymatic activity (alaninic and asparaginic transaminases alkaline phosphotase, lactate dehydrogenase and ribonuclease) in the blood serum and liver of the rabbits allowed to judge about the character of inflammatory and destructive changes in the liver following the use of the abovementioned methods. The rise of the activity of the enzymes under study within the first days after operation and its normalization by the 7th to 14th days in all the studied variants of hemo- an cholestasis have been established.", "contents": "[Effectiveness of cryogenic action in experimental liver resection]. The traditional ligature methods were added with freezing of the left hepatic lobe resection line in order to block up parenchymatous bleeding and cholerhagia in atypical resection of the liver. Alterations in the enzymatic activity (alaninic and asparaginic transaminases alkaline phosphotase, lactate dehydrogenase and ribonuclease) in the blood serum and liver of the rabbits allowed to judge about the character of inflammatory and destructive changes in the liver following the use of the abovementioned methods. The rise of the activity of the enzymes under study within the first days after operation and its normalization by the 7th to 14th days in all the studied variants of hemo- an cholestasis have been established.", "PMID": 442432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5665", "title": "[Phytobezoars of the stomach].", "content": "Literature data and the own authors' observations (76 cases), concerning the recognition and treatment of stomach phytobezoars following vagotomy and stomach resection are set forth in the paper. All these formations in the stomach were removed by means of the conservative procedures. Knowledge of the specificity of the phytobezoars manifestations in an operated stomach allows for better understanding and evaluation of the state of the patients who have been subjected to stomach resection of vagotomy.", "contents": "[Phytobezoars of the stomach]. Literature data and the own authors' observations (76 cases), concerning the recognition and treatment of stomach phytobezoars following vagotomy and stomach resection are set forth in the paper. All these formations in the stomach were removed by means of the conservative procedures. Knowledge of the specificity of the phytobezoars manifestations in an operated stomach allows for better understanding and evaluation of the state of the patients who have been subjected to stomach resection of vagotomy.", "PMID": 442434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5666", "title": "[Surgical treatment of pancreatic cysts].", "content": "The authors observed 103 cases of pancreatic cysts caused by acute pancreatitis, aggravation of chronic pancreatitis (81.0%) and trauma to the pancreas (12.0%). The posttraumatic cysts were more common in children and young adults (86.0%). The use of the complex method of diagnosis (x-ray examination of the gastrointestinal tract, celiacography, and upper mesentericography, endoscopic pancreatography, ultrasound echolocation of the pancreas) allowed to establish the diagnosis in 91.6% of cases. The external drainage of the cysts was carried out in cases of infected cysts with poorly formed walls. In case of a dilated and deformed main pancreatic duct with disorder of its patency (21 cases) the longitudinal cystopancreatojejunostomy was performed. The lethality after internal drainage constituted 2.4%. 80.8% of patients showed good long-term results of the treatment and 14.4%--showed fair results. 2 patients (2.1%) developed the recurrence of the cyst.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of pancreatic cysts]. The authors observed 103 cases of pancreatic cysts caused by acute pancreatitis, aggravation of chronic pancreatitis (81.0%) and trauma to the pancreas (12.0%). The posttraumatic cysts were more common in children and young adults (86.0%). The use of the complex method of diagnosis (x-ray examination of the gastrointestinal tract, celiacography, and upper mesentericography, endoscopic pancreatography, ultrasound echolocation of the pancreas) allowed to establish the diagnosis in 91.6% of cases. The external drainage of the cysts was carried out in cases of infected cysts with poorly formed walls. In case of a dilated and deformed main pancreatic duct with disorder of its patency (21 cases) the longitudinal cystopancreatojejunostomy was performed. The lethality after internal drainage constituted 2.4%. 80.8% of patients showed good long-term results of the treatment and 14.4%--showed fair results. 2 patients (2.1%) developed the recurrence of the cyst.", "PMID": 442435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5667", "title": "[Regional blood redistributions after experimental laparotomy].", "content": "The authors studied regional redistribution of the blood in the experiments on 12 white male rats adapted to the experimental conditions. There were no postoperative complications in the laparotomy model. The main direction of the postoperative regional blood redistributions has been considered as one of the typical redistribution reactions associated with the mobilization of the intravascular blood reserve and its use in the organs with an intense function.", "contents": "[Regional blood redistributions after experimental laparotomy]. The authors studied regional redistribution of the blood in the experiments on 12 white male rats adapted to the experimental conditions. There were no postoperative complications in the laparotomy model. The main direction of the postoperative regional blood redistributions has been considered as one of the typical redistribution reactions associated with the mobilization of the intravascular blood reserve and its use in the organs with an intense function.", "PMID": 442437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5668", "title": "[Vertical stereophlebography and the results of its use in the diagnosis of venous diseases of the lower extremities].", "content": "The described method of vetrical streophlebography, added with the contrasting of the limb surface, allows to reveal the space interrelationship between different veins, veins and bones and also between the limb and the body surface. The authors believe that due to the spacious image of the venous system of the lower limbs, stereoplebography is a more informative angiographic method as compared to a routine phlebography.", "contents": "[Vertical stereophlebography and the results of its use in the diagnosis of venous diseases of the lower extremities]. The described method of vetrical streophlebography, added with the contrasting of the limb surface, allows to reveal the space interrelationship between different veins, veins and bones and also between the limb and the body surface. The authors believe that due to the spacious image of the venous system of the lower limbs, stereoplebography is a more informative angiographic method as compared to a routine phlebography.", "PMID": 442438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5669", "title": "[Stability and the biodestruction of polymer compositions for joining and replacing bone tissue].", "content": "Ethylcyanacryl-based compositions were subjected to gravimetric studies with the use of standard specimens in numerous laboratory tests and in 60 experiments on rabbits. Compositions with various fillers were studied. A relatively high elimination rate or orotic acid, microcapsulated in dextrane, from polymerized blocks was found. The results of the studies have shown the expediency of further improvement of the composition for the alignment and replacement of the bone tissue.", "contents": "[Stability and the biodestruction of polymer compositions for joining and replacing bone tissue]. Ethylcyanacryl-based compositions were subjected to gravimetric studies with the use of standard specimens in numerous laboratory tests and in 60 experiments on rabbits. Compositions with various fillers were studied. A relatively high elimination rate or orotic acid, microcapsulated in dextrane, from polymerized blocks was found. The results of the studies have shown the expediency of further improvement of the composition for the alignment and replacement of the bone tissue.", "PMID": 442439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5670", "title": "[Early complications after a gastric resection for peptic ulcer combined with the late phase of opisthorchiasis].", "content": "The paper is grounded on the analysis of 243 case histories of the patients with opisthorchiasis operated upon for gastric and duodenal ulcer. Various modifications of Billroth II operation were carried out upon 174 patients and Billroth I operation--upon 66 patients. 33 patients developed various complications in early postoperative period, in 10 of them there was a pathogenetic association of the complication with a parasitogenic disease. 7 patients died.", "contents": "[Early complications after a gastric resection for peptic ulcer combined with the late phase of opisthorchiasis]. The paper is grounded on the analysis of 243 case histories of the patients with opisthorchiasis operated upon for gastric and duodenal ulcer. Various modifications of Billroth II operation were carried out upon 174 patients and Billroth I operation--upon 66 patients. 33 patients developed various complications in early postoperative period, in 10 of them there was a pathogenetic association of the complication with a parasitogenic disease. 7 patients died.", "PMID": 442440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5671", "title": "[Severe injuries of the neck].", "content": "An analysis of the surgical tactics in 15 patients with severe combined neck traumas was carried out. All the patients recovered. There were 3 injuries to the trachea, 2 injuries to the larynx, 3 injuries to the pharynx and 2 injuries to the thyroid gland. 10 patients sustained traumas to the large vessels. Surgical tactics and results of the treatment are described.", "contents": "[Severe injuries of the neck]. An analysis of the surgical tactics in 15 patients with severe combined neck traumas was carried out. All the patients recovered. There were 3 injuries to the trachea, 2 injuries to the larynx, 3 injuries to the pharynx and 2 injuries to the thyroid gland. 10 patients sustained traumas to the large vessels. Surgical tactics and results of the treatment are described.", "PMID": 442441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5672", "title": "[Problems of the diagnosis and therapeutic procedure in traumatic aneurysms].", "content": "Some problems, concerning the diagnosis and treatment of peace-time traumatic aneurysms, are considered here. The authors treated 30 patients, using mostly plastic operations, 28 of them showed excellent and good results. The amputation of the femur was carried out in one case. One patient died from infected arterio-venous aneurysm.", "contents": "[Problems of the diagnosis and therapeutic procedure in traumatic aneurysms]. Some problems, concerning the diagnosis and treatment of peace-time traumatic aneurysms, are considered here. The authors treated 30 patients, using mostly plastic operations, 28 of them showed excellent and good results. The amputation of the femur was carried out in one case. One patient died from infected arterio-venous aneurysm.", "PMID": 442442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5673", "title": "Comparative pathology of glomerulonephritis in animals.", "content": "Glomerulonephritis constitutes an important category of renal diseases in animals and has been recognized with increasing frequency in the last decade. We report here the comparative morphologic aspects of glomerulonephritis as a naturally occurring disease of animals. We briefly review the immunopathogenesis of glomerulonephritis. The morphology of renal lesions occurring in glomerulonephritis in dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, horses and swine has been reviewed with emphasis on the range and specificity of various glomerular lesions and on the comparison of lesions between various species. A distinction was made between glomerulonephritis as a primary disease entity and glomerulonephritis associated with other disease processes. Primary idiopathic glomerulonephritis occurred in all species but was most commonly recognized as a clinically important disease in dogs and cats. Glomerulonephritis also occurred in association with other diseases such as equine infectious anemia, chronic hog cholera, canine pyometra, dirofilariasis, feline leukemia virus infection and canine systemic lupus erythematosus.", "contents": "Comparative pathology of glomerulonephritis in animals. Glomerulonephritis constitutes an important category of renal diseases in animals and has been recognized with increasing frequency in the last decade. We report here the comparative morphologic aspects of glomerulonephritis as a naturally occurring disease of animals. We briefly review the immunopathogenesis of glomerulonephritis. The morphology of renal lesions occurring in glomerulonephritis in dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, horses and swine has been reviewed with emphasis on the range and specificity of various glomerular lesions and on the comparison of lesions between various species. A distinction was made between glomerulonephritis as a primary disease entity and glomerulonephritis associated with other disease processes. Primary idiopathic glomerulonephritis occurred in all species but was most commonly recognized as a clinically important disease in dogs and cats. Glomerulonephritis also occurred in association with other diseases such as equine infectious anemia, chronic hog cholera, canine pyometra, dirofilariasis, feline leukemia virus infection and canine systemic lupus erythematosus.", "PMID": 442447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5674", "title": "Histological and electron microscopic studies of endemic ethmoidal carcinomas in cattle.", "content": "In five cases of endemic ethmoidal carcinoma in cattle from the Dominican Republic three tumor types could be classified: undifferentiated carcinoma (3), adenocarcinoma (1), and squamous cell carcinoma (1). Electron microscopy showed that the tumor cells in undifferentiated carcinomas closely resembled the cells of the normal olfactory mucosa. This was especially true for the dark cells of Bowman's gland. Ultrastructurally, the lymphoid cells of the undifferentiated bovine carcinoma resembled the lymphoid cells of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma being closely associated with Epstein-Barr Virus. This and epidemiological observations suggested a viral cause of endemic ethmoidal carcinoma.", "contents": "Histological and electron microscopic studies of endemic ethmoidal carcinomas in cattle. In five cases of endemic ethmoidal carcinoma in cattle from the Dominican Republic three tumor types could be classified: undifferentiated carcinoma (3), adenocarcinoma (1), and squamous cell carcinoma (1). Electron microscopy showed that the tumor cells in undifferentiated carcinomas closely resembled the cells of the normal olfactory mucosa. This was especially true for the dark cells of Bowman's gland. Ultrastructurally, the lymphoid cells of the undifferentiated bovine carcinoma resembled the lymphoid cells of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma being closely associated with Epstein-Barr Virus. This and epidemiological observations suggested a viral cause of endemic ethmoidal carcinoma.", "PMID": 442448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5675", "title": "Intracardial mesotheliomas and a gastric papilloma in a giant grouper, Epinephelus itajara (Lichtenstein).", "content": "A giant grouper, Epinephelus itajara (Lichtenstein), was found dead in its tank. The principal necropsy findings consisted of multiple tumors in the ventricle of the heart, a tumor mass in the stomach, and protozoa-like organisms in the heart tumor, bile ducts and kidney collecting ducts. The heart tumors were identified as mesotheliomas the stomach tumor as a papilloma. The morphology of the protozoan-like organisms was similar to that of Rhabdospora thelohani (Languesse).", "contents": "Intracardial mesotheliomas and a gastric papilloma in a giant grouper, Epinephelus itajara (Lichtenstein). A giant grouper, Epinephelus itajara (Lichtenstein), was found dead in its tank. The principal necropsy findings consisted of multiple tumors in the ventricle of the heart, a tumor mass in the stomach, and protozoa-like organisms in the heart tumor, bile ducts and kidney collecting ducts. The heart tumors were identified as mesotheliomas the stomach tumor as a papilloma. The morphology of the protozoan-like organisms was similar to that of Rhabdospora thelohani (Languesse).", "PMID": 442449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5676", "title": "The nomenclature of periodontal epulides in dogs.", "content": "Epulides of periodontal origin are seen frequently in dogs. The classification of these tumors in the literature varies greatly and leads to much confusion when trying to compare reports from different sources. Our article reviews the literature regarding these tumors and suggests a standardized nomenclature. Three types of epulis are described. These are fibromatous epulis, ossifying epulis, and acanthomatous epulis, all of which are of periodontal origin. The three are grouped together because all have a stroma closely resembling normal periodontal ligament. The acanthomatous epulis has the potential to infiltrate locally into bone, whereas the other forms are not invasive.", "contents": "The nomenclature of periodontal epulides in dogs. Epulides of periodontal origin are seen frequently in dogs. The classification of these tumors in the literature varies greatly and leads to much confusion when trying to compare reports from different sources. Our article reviews the literature regarding these tumors and suggests a standardized nomenclature. Three types of epulis are described. These are fibromatous epulis, ossifying epulis, and acanthomatous epulis, all of which are of periodontal origin. The three are grouped together because all have a stroma closely resembling normal periodontal ligament. The acanthomatous epulis has the potential to infiltrate locally into bone, whereas the other forms are not invasive.", "PMID": 442450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5677", "title": "Feline histiocytic colitis. A case report with electron microscopy.", "content": "A 5-year-old cat with clinical colitis had histiocytic inflammation of colonic mucosa. Light and electron microscopy demonstrated bacilli, 0.7 x 3.0 micrometers, in various stages of degradation within macrophage cytoplasm. The disease is similar to histiocytic granulomatous bowel disease of other species. The cat responded to long-term treatment with antibiotics.", "contents": "Feline histiocytic colitis. A case report with electron microscopy. A 5-year-old cat with clinical colitis had histiocytic inflammation of colonic mucosa. Light and electron microscopy demonstrated bacilli, 0.7 x 3.0 micrometers, in various stages of degradation within macrophage cytoplasm. The disease is similar to histiocytic granulomatous bowel disease of other species. The cat responded to long-term treatment with antibiotics.", "PMID": 442451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5678", "title": "Transitional cell carcinoma in the domestic cat.", "content": "In 17 cases of transitional cell carcinoma in cats the most common site for primary neoplasia was the urinary bladder; metastasis was recorded in five of the cases. Nine of the cases have been reported previously; the eight additional carcinomas from the files of the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine were highly invasive and had a desmoplastic response. According to WHO guidelines they were classified as nonpapillary, infiltrating; papillary, infiltrating; and variants of transitional cell carcinoma.", "contents": "Transitional cell carcinoma in the domestic cat. In 17 cases of transitional cell carcinoma in cats the most common site for primary neoplasia was the urinary bladder; metastasis was recorded in five of the cases. Nine of the cases have been reported previously; the eight additional carcinomas from the files of the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine were highly invasive and had a desmoplastic response. According to WHO guidelines they were classified as nonpapillary, infiltrating; papillary, infiltrating; and variants of transitional cell carcinoma.", "PMID": 442452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5679", "title": "The pathogenesis of Trypanosoma congolense infection in calves. IV. The kinetics of blood coagulation.", "content": "Blood coagulation studies showed there was a pronounced thrombocytopenia and hypofibrinogenemia in Holstein calves infected with Trypanosoma congolense TREU 112. There was also ineffective thrombopoiesis characterized by an increased megakaryocytic mass, reduced uptake of 35S-methionine into peripheral blood platelets and a normal platelet lifespan. There was an increased uptake of isotopic label into fibrinogen and a shortened half life indicating a consumptive error with increased peripheral use of fibrinogen. No consistent abnormalities were found in ethanol gelation, partial thromboplastin time, clot retraction and lysis or plasminogen assay. Fibrin split products were rarely detected. These findings suggest that in the chronic form of bovine trypanosomiasis there is a partially compensated consumption coagulopathy.", "contents": "The pathogenesis of Trypanosoma congolense infection in calves. IV. The kinetics of blood coagulation. Blood coagulation studies showed there was a pronounced thrombocytopenia and hypofibrinogenemia in Holstein calves infected with Trypanosoma congolense TREU 112. There was also ineffective thrombopoiesis characterized by an increased megakaryocytic mass, reduced uptake of 35S-methionine into peripheral blood platelets and a normal platelet lifespan. There was an increased uptake of isotopic label into fibrinogen and a shortened half life indicating a consumptive error with increased peripheral use of fibrinogen. No consistent abnormalities were found in ethanol gelation, partial thromboplastin time, clot retraction and lysis or plasminogen assay. Fibrin split products were rarely detected. These findings suggest that in the chronic form of bovine trypanosomiasis there is a partially compensated consumption coagulopathy.", "PMID": 442453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5680", "title": "Vascular malformations and hemangiomas of the canine spinal cord.", "content": "An arteriovenous malformation and two hemangiomas in the canine spinal cord were found in three dogs. The malformation was ventral, extramedullary and largely subdural. Chronic hypoxia, consequent upon the shunt, had led to extensive local edema, necrosis and hemorrhage at T13-L1. Prominent intramedullary perivascular fibrosis, mineralization and obliteration were the presumed consequences of the hemodynamic insult. The hemangiomas, one of which was multiple, were deep lesions that produced compressive changes in the adjacent cord tissue. The masses were regarded as benign neoplasms with central sclerosis. These conditions appear not to have been reported previously in the dog.", "contents": "Vascular malformations and hemangiomas of the canine spinal cord. An arteriovenous malformation and two hemangiomas in the canine spinal cord were found in three dogs. The malformation was ventral, extramedullary and largely subdural. Chronic hypoxia, consequent upon the shunt, had led to extensive local edema, necrosis and hemorrhage at T13-L1. Prominent intramedullary perivascular fibrosis, mineralization and obliteration were the presumed consequences of the hemodynamic insult. The hemangiomas, one of which was multiple, were deep lesions that produced compressive changes in the adjacent cord tissue. The masses were regarded as benign neoplasms with central sclerosis. These conditions appear not to have been reported previously in the dog.", "PMID": 442458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5681", "title": "Placental lesions in habitually aborting cats.", "content": "An ovariohysterectomy was done on five female cats with a history of habitual abortion in the 3rd to 4th week of pregnancy and the foetuses and placentas examined. Histologic and electron microscopic examination showed multifocal placental necrosis which was deduced to begin in the syncytial trophoblastic cells and to extend to all the cells of the labyrinth. This lesion was followed by foetal autolysis. No bacterial, viral or mycoplasmal agents could be incriminated in the disease.", "contents": "Placental lesions in habitually aborting cats. An ovariohysterectomy was done on five female cats with a history of habitual abortion in the 3rd to 4th week of pregnancy and the foetuses and placentas examined. Histologic and electron microscopic examination showed multifocal placental necrosis which was deduced to begin in the syncytial trophoblastic cells and to extend to all the cells of the labyrinth. This lesion was followed by foetal autolysis. No bacterial, viral or mycoplasmal agents could be incriminated in the disease.", "PMID": 442459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5682", "title": "Uremic gastropathy in the dog.", "content": "Stomachs of four dogs with uremia and four normal dogs were examined. Uremic stomachs represented four types of disease: atrophic, amyloidotic, ulcerative and necrotic gastropathy. Pathologic changes common to all uremic stomachs were expansion of the lamina propria, atrophy of gastric glands, and submucosal arteriopathy; lesions were limited to body and fundic zones. Lamina propria was markedly expanded by edema, mastocytosis, deposition of acidic mucosubstances, fibroplasia and mineralization. Capillaries in lamina propria had swollen endothelium and calcium salts were present extracellularly as amorphous granular laminae. Gastric glands were distorted and irregular and had fewer cells per unit of tissue. Parietal cells were swollen and had fragmentation of cytocavitary network and mitochondrial swelling with calcification. Chief cells were shrunken, agranular and atrophic with foci of glycogen and dilation of endoplasmic reticulum. Argentaffin cell content was diminished. Muscular arteries of submucosae had segmental degenerative lesions characterized by myocyte necrosis, calcification, and deposition of acidic mucosubstances and fibrin; thrombosis and obstructive arteriopathy were common. These studies suggest that uremic gastropathy is a disease of mucosal lamina propria and that lesions were due to anoxia caused by diffuse vascular injury and to altered parietal cell function.", "contents": "Uremic gastropathy in the dog. Stomachs of four dogs with uremia and four normal dogs were examined. Uremic stomachs represented four types of disease: atrophic, amyloidotic, ulcerative and necrotic gastropathy. Pathologic changes common to all uremic stomachs were expansion of the lamina propria, atrophy of gastric glands, and submucosal arteriopathy; lesions were limited to body and fundic zones. Lamina propria was markedly expanded by edema, mastocytosis, deposition of acidic mucosubstances, fibroplasia and mineralization. Capillaries in lamina propria had swollen endothelium and calcium salts were present extracellularly as amorphous granular laminae. Gastric glands were distorted and irregular and had fewer cells per unit of tissue. Parietal cells were swollen and had fragmentation of cytocavitary network and mitochondrial swelling with calcification. Chief cells were shrunken, agranular and atrophic with foci of glycogen and dilation of endoplasmic reticulum. Argentaffin cell content was diminished. Muscular arteries of submucosae had segmental degenerative lesions characterized by myocyte necrosis, calcification, and deposition of acidic mucosubstances and fibrin; thrombosis and obstructive arteriopathy were common. These studies suggest that uremic gastropathy is a disease of mucosal lamina propria and that lesions were due to anoxia caused by diffuse vascular injury and to altered parietal cell function.", "PMID": 442460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5683", "title": "Mycobacterium avium abortion in a sow.", "content": "A 2-year-old sow aborted her entire near-term litter of 11. Gross and histologic examination of a fetus suggested a tuberculous infection, and a yellow-pigmented Mycobacterium avium serotype 1 was subsequently isolated from the fetal tissue. Efforts to rebreed the sow were unsuccessful. She was anergic to skin tests with purified protein derivative of M. avium on two occasions but had M. avium specific in vitro lymphocyte immunostimulation. Gross granulomatous lesions were found in the liver, kidneys, and endometrium when the sow was necropsied 5 months after the abortion. Histologic examination showed diffuse and focal non-encapsulated granulomas in lymph nodes, tonsils, kidney, liver, spleen, lung, and uterine and vaginal walls. There were a few encapsulated calcified foci in the endometrium. The centers of some granulomas in the tonsils, liver, kidneys, and some lymph nodes were caseated. The yellow-pigmented M. avium was isolated from the reproductive organs and from 11 of 12 other tissues cultured.", "contents": "Mycobacterium avium abortion in a sow. A 2-year-old sow aborted her entire near-term litter of 11. Gross and histologic examination of a fetus suggested a tuberculous infection, and a yellow-pigmented Mycobacterium avium serotype 1 was subsequently isolated from the fetal tissue. Efforts to rebreed the sow were unsuccessful. She was anergic to skin tests with purified protein derivative of M. avium on two occasions but had M. avium specific in vitro lymphocyte immunostimulation. Gross granulomatous lesions were found in the liver, kidneys, and endometrium when the sow was necropsied 5 months after the abortion. Histologic examination showed diffuse and focal non-encapsulated granulomas in lymph nodes, tonsils, kidney, liver, spleen, lung, and uterine and vaginal walls. There were a few encapsulated calcified foci in the endometrium. The centers of some granulomas in the tonsils, liver, kidneys, and some lymph nodes were caseated. The yellow-pigmented M. avium was isolated from the reproductive organs and from 11 of 12 other tissues cultured.", "PMID": 442461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5684", "title": "Morphology of spontaneous brain tumors in the rat.", "content": "In lifespan studies of 2,242 rats of three strains, 32 neoplasms were identified in brain, meninges and pineal gland. They were astrocytoma (16 Wistar, three Sprague-Dawley), ependymoma (four Osborne-Mendel), meningioma (two Osborne-Mendel, one Wistar), pinealoma (two Osborne-Mendel), reticulosis (two Wistar), oligodendroglioma (one Wistar), and gliomatosis (one Wistar).", "contents": "Morphology of spontaneous brain tumors in the rat. In lifespan studies of 2,242 rats of three strains, 32 neoplasms were identified in brain, meninges and pineal gland. They were astrocytoma (16 Wistar, three Sprague-Dawley), ependymoma (four Osborne-Mendel), meningioma (two Osborne-Mendel, one Wistar), pinealoma (two Osborne-Mendel), reticulosis (two Wistar), oligodendroglioma (one Wistar), and gliomatosis (one Wistar).", "PMID": 442462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5685", "title": "Canine granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis.", "content": "In 27 adult dogs with a distinctive chronic granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis there were locomotor problems, cervical meningitis and blindness. Lesions were widespread, but most severe in cerebral and cerebellar white substance and in the cervical spinal cord. Lesions were characterized by the development of epithelioid cell granulomas arising from mononuclear cuffs. There were secondary edema and necrosis in severe cases and eventual fibroplastic repair in chronic cases. The cause is unknown.", "contents": "Canine granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis. In 27 adult dogs with a distinctive chronic granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis there were locomotor problems, cervical meningitis and blindness. Lesions were widespread, but most severe in cerebral and cerebellar white substance and in the cervical spinal cord. Lesions were characterized by the development of epithelioid cell granulomas arising from mononuclear cuffs. There were secondary edema and necrosis in severe cases and eventual fibroplastic repair in chronic cases. The cause is unknown.", "PMID": 442463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5686", "title": "The pathogenesis of Trypanosoma congolense infection in calves. V. Quantitative histological changes.", "content": "Calves infected with Trypanosoma congolense TREU 112 had generalized microvascular dilation which was most prominent in the liver and the mesentery; there also was increase in cellularity in the lung with significant alveolar thickening and accumulation of hemosiderin-bearing cells in the alveolar septa, focal accumulations of lymphocytes primarily at the corticomedullary junction of the kidneys and a well developed glomerulonephritis, likely membranoproliferative. Reticuloendothelial changes were marrow hyperplasia with an erythroid shift, moderate hemosiderosis and moderate dysthrombopoiesis, marked thymic cortical atrophy, hypersplenism and enlarged nodes with reduced cellular density, paracortical atrophy and medullary sclerosis.", "contents": "The pathogenesis of Trypanosoma congolense infection in calves. V. Quantitative histological changes. Calves infected with Trypanosoma congolense TREU 112 had generalized microvascular dilation which was most prominent in the liver and the mesentery; there also was increase in cellularity in the lung with significant alveolar thickening and accumulation of hemosiderin-bearing cells in the alveolar septa, focal accumulations of lymphocytes primarily at the corticomedullary junction of the kidneys and a well developed glomerulonephritis, likely membranoproliferative. Reticuloendothelial changes were marrow hyperplasia with an erythroid shift, moderate hemosiderosis and moderate dysthrombopoiesis, marked thymic cortical atrophy, hypersplenism and enlarged nodes with reduced cellular density, paracortical atrophy and medullary sclerosis.", "PMID": 442464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5687", "title": "Treatment of methapyrilene toxicity with physostigmine.", "content": "Methypyrilene, 40 mg/kg, was administered to male mongrel dogs, resulting in both central and peripheral anticholinergic effects. Physostigmine in doses of 0.5 to 1.0 mg was effective in reversing the central effects completely and the peripheral effects to a limited degree.", "contents": "Treatment of methapyrilene toxicity with physostigmine. Methypyrilene, 40 mg/kg, was administered to male mongrel dogs, resulting in both central and peripheral anticholinergic effects. Physostigmine in doses of 0.5 to 1.0 mg was effective in reversing the central effects completely and the peripheral effects to a limited degree.", "PMID": 442480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5688", "title": "[Subfractional composition and structural characteristics of G immunoglobulins in pathological states].", "content": "Physico-chemical properties of gamma-globulin fraction and immunoglobulins G (IgG) were studied, using temperature-perturbational differential spectrophotometry and ion exchange chromatography on DEAE cellulose, in blood serum of 118 patients with impairments of thyroid gland and of 28 patients with chronic pneumonia. Amount of tyrosine residues, perturbated by temperature, was decreased and an alkaline subfraction was increased in IgG of patients with toxic goiter and chronic pneumonia; the increase in the alkaline subfraction was more distinct in impairments of thyroid gland. The data obtained suggest that the alkaline subfraction is characterized by an increased rigidity and apparently by altered structural properties in toxic goiter. The tyrosine residues in IgG enable to evaluate effectively the availability of a cavity between variable domains (antigen-antibody site) of the immunoglobulin.", "contents": "[Subfractional composition and structural characteristics of G immunoglobulins in pathological states]. Physico-chemical properties of gamma-globulin fraction and immunoglobulins G (IgG) were studied, using temperature-perturbational differential spectrophotometry and ion exchange chromatography on DEAE cellulose, in blood serum of 118 patients with impairments of thyroid gland and of 28 patients with chronic pneumonia. Amount of tyrosine residues, perturbated by temperature, was decreased and an alkaline subfraction was increased in IgG of patients with toxic goiter and chronic pneumonia; the increase in the alkaline subfraction was more distinct in impairments of thyroid gland. The data obtained suggest that the alkaline subfraction is characterized by an increased rigidity and apparently by altered structural properties in toxic goiter. The tyrosine residues in IgG enable to evaluate effectively the availability of a cavity between variable domains (antigen-antibody site) of the immunoglobulin.", "PMID": 442582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5689", "title": "[Extraction of crystalline L-threonine(serine)-dehydratase from rat liver].", "content": "Isolation on a preparative scale of crystalline pyridoxal phosphate-dependent threonine dehydratase (responsible for threonine deamination) from rat liver tissue is described. The enzyme was purified by stepwise salting out with (NH4)2SO4, two precipitations with acetone, gel filtration through Sephadex G-25, chromatography on DEAE cellulose, repricipitation with ammonium sulfate and crystallization. The ratio of threonine to serine dehydratase activities was altered only slightly through all the steps of the purification procedure. Both enzymes proved to be similar in their chromatographic properties; this suggests that a single enzyme is responsible for dehydrative deamination of both hydroxyamino acids in rat liver tissue. Stability of the enzyme preparations was distinctly increased after DEAE cellulose chromatography. The yield of crystalline threonine (serine) dehydratase was about 3%; the enzyme was purified 1500-1800-fold.", "contents": "[Extraction of crystalline L-threonine(serine)-dehydratase from rat liver]. Isolation on a preparative scale of crystalline pyridoxal phosphate-dependent threonine dehydratase (responsible for threonine deamination) from rat liver tissue is described. The enzyme was purified by stepwise salting out with (NH4)2SO4, two precipitations with acetone, gel filtration through Sephadex G-25, chromatography on DEAE cellulose, repricipitation with ammonium sulfate and crystallization. The ratio of threonine to serine dehydratase activities was altered only slightly through all the steps of the purification procedure. Both enzymes proved to be similar in their chromatographic properties; this suggests that a single enzyme is responsible for dehydrative deamination of both hydroxyamino acids in rat liver tissue. Stability of the enzyme preparations was distinctly increased after DEAE cellulose chromatography. The yield of crystalline threonine (serine) dehydratase was about 3%; the enzyme was purified 1500-1800-fold.", "PMID": 442583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5690", "title": "[Chemiluminescence of blood plasma in the presence of hydrogen peroxide].", "content": "Chemoluminescence arised after incubation of diluted blood plasma with hydrogen peroxide. A typical pattern of the luminescence development, similar to that obtained on addition of H2O2 to other biological objects, was observed: quick increase and gradual decrease to a steady-state chemoluminescence level. The increase in chemoluminescence, which was noted in some experiments, might be due to elevation in content of both initiators of peroxidation and activators of the chemoluminescence in blood plasma. Kinetics of the chemoluminescence did not correlate with concentration of oxygen in media.", "contents": "[Chemiluminescence of blood plasma in the presence of hydrogen peroxide]. Chemoluminescence arised after incubation of diluted blood plasma with hydrogen peroxide. A typical pattern of the luminescence development, similar to that obtained on addition of H2O2 to other biological objects, was observed: quick increase and gradual decrease to a steady-state chemoluminescence level. The increase in chemoluminescence, which was noted in some experiments, might be due to elevation in content of both initiators of peroxidation and activators of the chemoluminescence in blood plasma. Kinetics of the chemoluminescence did not correlate with concentration of oxygen in media.", "PMID": 442584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5691", "title": "[Antivitamin activity of thiaminase from B. thiaminolyticus with different routes of administration into animals].", "content": "Effect of bacterial thiaminase was studied in vivo after subcutaneous and intragastric administration of either the enzyme or of suspensions of intact and inactivated with an antibiotic bacterial cells, producing thiaminase. Activity of the thiamin-dependent enzymes (transketolase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase) was distinctly decreased in liver and kidney tissues within 2 and 7 days after a single subcutaneous administration of 0.015 IU of the enzyme. Repeated administration of the enzyme within 4 days inhibited activity of thiamin-dependent enzymes in other tissues (heart, spleen, muscle and blood). Activity of thiamin-dependent enzymes in liver, kidney, heart, spleen, brain, muscles and blood was decreased more distinctly after administration of intact bacterial cells into mice stomach as compared to the effect of inactivated cells. Old animals were more sensitive to administration of intact bacterial cells than the young ones. The data obtained suggest that, besides the known thiamin-degrading effect of bacterial thiaminase in the intestinal contents, the enzyme exhibits functional activity within the animal tissues after the parenteral administration.", "contents": "[Antivitamin activity of thiaminase from B. thiaminolyticus with different routes of administration into animals]. Effect of bacterial thiaminase was studied in vivo after subcutaneous and intragastric administration of either the enzyme or of suspensions of intact and inactivated with an antibiotic bacterial cells, producing thiaminase. Activity of the thiamin-dependent enzymes (transketolase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase) was distinctly decreased in liver and kidney tissues within 2 and 7 days after a single subcutaneous administration of 0.015 IU of the enzyme. Repeated administration of the enzyme within 4 days inhibited activity of thiamin-dependent enzymes in other tissues (heart, spleen, muscle and blood). Activity of thiamin-dependent enzymes in liver, kidney, heart, spleen, brain, muscles and blood was decreased more distinctly after administration of intact bacterial cells into mice stomach as compared to the effect of inactivated cells. Old animals were more sensitive to administration of intact bacterial cells than the young ones. The data obtained suggest that, besides the known thiamin-degrading effect of bacterial thiaminase in the intestinal contents, the enzyme exhibits functional activity within the animal tissues after the parenteral administration.", "PMID": 442585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5692", "title": "[Keto sugars in the urine of patients with chronic pancreatitis].", "content": "Simultaneously with fructose and sucrose, five oligosaccharides, containing fructose residue and exhibiting reducing properties, were found in urine of patients with chronic pancreatitis and with liver impairments caused by ethanol intoxication. Four of the oligosaccharides were trisaccharides, containing fructose residue and two residues of glucose as well as one tetrassaccharide, comprizing a residue of fructose and three residues of glucose. The fructose residue occupied the terminal position in all the oligosaccharides. The oligosaccharides found in urine of the patients were dissimilar in the types of link between residues of glucose and between residues of fructose and glucose; these oligosaccharides exhibited different chromatographic mobility.", "contents": "[Keto sugars in the urine of patients with chronic pancreatitis]. Simultaneously with fructose and sucrose, five oligosaccharides, containing fructose residue and exhibiting reducing properties, were found in urine of patients with chronic pancreatitis and with liver impairments caused by ethanol intoxication. Four of the oligosaccharides were trisaccharides, containing fructose residue and two residues of glucose as well as one tetrassaccharide, comprizing a residue of fructose and three residues of glucose. The fructose residue occupied the terminal position in all the oligosaccharides. The oligosaccharides found in urine of the patients were dissimilar in the types of link between residues of glucose and between residues of fructose and glucose; these oligosaccharides exhibited different chromatographic mobility.", "PMID": 442586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5693", "title": "[State of the external secretory function of the pancreas in chronic enterocolitis].", "content": "Activities of main pancreatic enzymes as well as activity of trypsin inhibitor were studied in blood serum, duodenal contents and urine in course of investigations of the exocrinic function of pancreas in patients. The exocrinic function of pancreas was found to be impaired in chronic enterocolitis. The impairment of the gland secretion, caused by inflammatory and atrophic alterations in intestine, might be one of the factors responsible for alterations in the enzymatic activity and in activity of trypsin inhibitor. Complex examination of the pancreatic enzymes and of trypsin inhibitor supplied an adequate information on the state of exocrinic function of pancreatic gland in the patients with chronic enterocolitis.", "contents": "[State of the external secretory function of the pancreas in chronic enterocolitis]. Activities of main pancreatic enzymes as well as activity of trypsin inhibitor were studied in blood serum, duodenal contents and urine in course of investigations of the exocrinic function of pancreas in patients. The exocrinic function of pancreas was found to be impaired in chronic enterocolitis. The impairment of the gland secretion, caused by inflammatory and atrophic alterations in intestine, might be one of the factors responsible for alterations in the enzymatic activity and in activity of trypsin inhibitor. Complex examination of the pancreatic enzymes and of trypsin inhibitor supplied an adequate information on the state of exocrinic function of pancreatic gland in the patients with chronic enterocolitis.", "PMID": 442587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5694", "title": "[Effect of insulin and hydrocortisone on pyruvate kinase from the medullar and cortical layers of rabbit kidney].", "content": "Activity of M2-pyruvate kinase from medullar layer of rabbit kidney was studied in diabetes, in starvation within 1 day and 10-16 days and in long-term starvation of rabbits after administration of glucose or hydrocortisone and protamine-Zn-insulin. The enzymatic activity was increased in diabetes and decreased in long-term starvation and after administration of insulin. A correlation was observed between low activity of pyruvate kinase in kidney medulla under conditions of long-term starvation of rabbits and deficiency of the enzyme substrate. The data, obtained after study of the enzymatic activity in kidney medulla as compared with that of rabbit kidney cortex, demonstrate various adaptability of cells from these kidney layers to regulatory effects of hormones on the pyruvate kinase activity.", "contents": "[Effect of insulin and hydrocortisone on pyruvate kinase from the medullar and cortical layers of rabbit kidney]. Activity of M2-pyruvate kinase from medullar layer of rabbit kidney was studied in diabetes, in starvation within 1 day and 10-16 days and in long-term starvation of rabbits after administration of glucose or hydrocortisone and protamine-Zn-insulin. The enzymatic activity was increased in diabetes and decreased in long-term starvation and after administration of insulin. A correlation was observed between low activity of pyruvate kinase in kidney medulla under conditions of long-term starvation of rabbits and deficiency of the enzyme substrate. The data, obtained after study of the enzymatic activity in kidney medulla as compared with that of rabbit kidney cortex, demonstrate various adaptability of cells from these kidney layers to regulatory effects of hormones on the pyruvate kinase activity.", "PMID": 442588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5695", "title": "[Superoxide dismutase activity in the blood of children with iron deficiency anemia].", "content": "Activity of superoxide dismutase was studied in blood of children with various types of iron deficiency anemia. The enzymatic activity was increased in all the types of iron deficiency anemia studied (typical form, infectious anemia of premature children). This increase was especially distinct, when calculation was made per 1 mg of hemoglobin or 1 billion of erythrocytes. Alterations in superoxide dismutase activity and in content of blood hemoglobin were reciprocal in the anemias studied. Correlation was observed between the alteration in the enzymatic activity and a decrease in content of hemoglobin in prematurely born children with anemia.", "contents": "[Superoxide dismutase activity in the blood of children with iron deficiency anemia]. Activity of superoxide dismutase was studied in blood of children with various types of iron deficiency anemia. The enzymatic activity was increased in all the types of iron deficiency anemia studied (typical form, infectious anemia of premature children). This increase was especially distinct, when calculation was made per 1 mg of hemoglobin or 1 billion of erythrocytes. Alterations in superoxide dismutase activity and in content of blood hemoglobin were reciprocal in the anemias studied. Correlation was observed between the alteration in the enzymatic activity and a decrease in content of hemoglobin in prematurely born children with anemia.", "PMID": 442589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5696", "title": "[Effect of methotrexate on the activity of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases (A and B) in the spleen of mice infected with Rauscher leukemia virus and on the development of virus-induced leukemia].", "content": "Methotrexate was shown to inhibit development of Rausher's leukosis and growth of spleen. Activity of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases A and B was distinctly altered. The activity of RNA polymerase B was increased two-fold within the first days of the leukosis development; RNA polymerase A was activated five-fold in the course of subsequent progression of the impairment. Methotrexate inhibited the RNA polymerase activity in leukemic spleens. As suggested by correlation between weight of the spleen and the activity of RNA polymerases A and B, the enzymatic activity may be considered as a marker of the leukosis development.", "contents": "[Effect of methotrexate on the activity of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases (A and B) in the spleen of mice infected with Rauscher leukemia virus and on the development of virus-induced leukemia]. Methotrexate was shown to inhibit development of Rausher's leukosis and growth of spleen. Activity of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases A and B was distinctly altered. The activity of RNA polymerase B was increased two-fold within the first days of the leukosis development; RNA polymerase A was activated five-fold in the course of subsequent progression of the impairment. Methotrexate inhibited the RNA polymerase activity in leukemic spleens. As suggested by correlation between weight of the spleen and the activity of RNA polymerases A and B, the enzymatic activity may be considered as a marker of the leukosis development.", "PMID": 442590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5697", "title": "[Thrombotic complications in the blocking effect of protamine sulfate on nonenzymatic fibrinolysis in the blood of animals during activation of the anticoagulation system].", "content": "Protamine-sulfate blocked non-enzymatic fibrinolysis not only in vitro but also in vivo through binding of heparin and dissociation of its complexes, which are of great importance as humoral components of the anticoagulation system. Almost complete blocking of humoral agents of the anticoagulation system, caused either by a single intravenous administration of protamine-sulfate at large doses or by repeated administration of the substance at moderate doses within 14 days, led to death of the animals as a result of thrombotic complications related to appearance of additional thrombin in blood circulation. In these cases thrombosis occurred into coronary blood vessels. The non-enzymatic fibrinolytic effect was not observed in extracts from lungs, auricula atrii and liver tissue of experimental animals, treated with protamine-sulfate, as compared with the controls, administered with physiologic solution.", "contents": "[Thrombotic complications in the blocking effect of protamine sulfate on nonenzymatic fibrinolysis in the blood of animals during activation of the anticoagulation system]. Protamine-sulfate blocked non-enzymatic fibrinolysis not only in vitro but also in vivo through binding of heparin and dissociation of its complexes, which are of great importance as humoral components of the anticoagulation system. Almost complete blocking of humoral agents of the anticoagulation system, caused either by a single intravenous administration of protamine-sulfate at large doses or by repeated administration of the substance at moderate doses within 14 days, led to death of the animals as a result of thrombotic complications related to appearance of additional thrombin in blood circulation. In these cases thrombosis occurred into coronary blood vessels. The non-enzymatic fibrinolytic effect was not observed in extracts from lungs, auricula atrii and liver tissue of experimental animals, treated with protamine-sulfate, as compared with the controls, administered with physiologic solution.", "PMID": 442592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5698", "title": "[Modeling the oxidative detoxication function of the liver using electrochemical oxidation reactions].", "content": "An electrochemical system is developed, which permits to simulate oxidative reactions, processing in presence of cytochrome P-450. The system, combined with a dialyzing apparatus, may be used for oxidation and elimination of various hydrophobic substances of exoand endogenous origin from animal and human organisms.", "contents": "[Modeling the oxidative detoxication function of the liver using electrochemical oxidation reactions]. An electrochemical system is developed, which permits to simulate oxidative reactions, processing in presence of cytochrome P-450. The system, combined with a dialyzing apparatus, may be used for oxidation and elimination of various hydrophobic substances of exoand endogenous origin from animal and human organisms.", "PMID": 442594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5699", "title": "[Disorders of oxidative deamination of biogenic amines in the myocardium in experimental atherosclerosis].", "content": "Statistically significant inhibition of oxidative deamination of several biogenic amines was found in mitochondrial fraction of heart muscle from rabbits and rats with experimental atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, caused by various methods. Sensitivity of oxidative deamination of tryptamine to inhibitory effect of clorgyline (selective inhibitor of mitochondrial monoamine oxidases) was unaltered in rats with experimental hypercholesterolemia. The rate of oxidative deamination of beta-phenyl ethylamine, tryptamine, benzylamine as well as histamine and putrescine was inhibited after treatment of the mitochondrial fragments from healthy rabbit and rat heart muscles with preparations of oxidized linoleic and linolenic acids, concentration of which was increased in tissues under conditions of atherosclerosis.", "contents": "[Disorders of oxidative deamination of biogenic amines in the myocardium in experimental atherosclerosis]. Statistically significant inhibition of oxidative deamination of several biogenic amines was found in mitochondrial fraction of heart muscle from rabbits and rats with experimental atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, caused by various methods. Sensitivity of oxidative deamination of tryptamine to inhibitory effect of clorgyline (selective inhibitor of mitochondrial monoamine oxidases) was unaltered in rats with experimental hypercholesterolemia. The rate of oxidative deamination of beta-phenyl ethylamine, tryptamine, benzylamine as well as histamine and putrescine was inhibited after treatment of the mitochondrial fragments from healthy rabbit and rat heart muscles with preparations of oxidized linoleic and linolenic acids, concentration of which was increased in tissues under conditions of atherosclerosis.", "PMID": 442591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5700", "title": "[Activity of glycosidases in amniotic fluid cell cultures].", "content": "Deficiency of glycosidases is a fundamental feature of the hereditary diseases of glycoconjugate accumulation. The data obtained on activity of glycosidases in cell culture of normal amnionic fluid might be used as standards in prenatal diagnostics of hereditary glycolipidoses and glycoproteinoses. Use of cell culture of amnionic fluid for prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease is described.", "contents": "[Activity of glycosidases in amniotic fluid cell cultures]. Deficiency of glycosidases is a fundamental feature of the hereditary diseases of glycoconjugate accumulation. The data obtained on activity of glycosidases in cell culture of normal amnionic fluid might be used as standards in prenatal diagnostics of hereditary glycolipidoses and glycoproteinoses. Use of cell culture of amnionic fluid for prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease is described.", "PMID": 442593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5701", "title": "Ischemic heart disease. Precarious coronary lesions and prognosis.", "content": "Coronary arteriograms in 113 patients whose cases were followed for 2 to 12 years were analyzed in an attempt to discover why in some patients with angina pectoris there are long stable clinical courses and in others the courses proceed rapidly to death. It was found that patients with completed coronary occlusions, usually with distal portions reconstituted by collateral, had favorable prognoses with prolonged longevity. Patients with multiple high grade narrowings of the coronary arteries, on the other hand, had poor prognoses with high attrition rates. The more stenotic lesions present in the coronary arteries, the higher the attrition rates. Completed coronary occlusions, therefore, have been classified as nonprecarious while local coronary stenoses greater than 50 percent of the lumen diameter have been classified as degrees of precariousness according to the number of lesions present. When compared with classification by number of diseased vessels and by arteriographic score of Friesinger, the nonprecarious cases had better prognoses than the precarious.", "contents": "Ischemic heart disease. Precarious coronary lesions and prognosis. Coronary arteriograms in 113 patients whose cases were followed for 2 to 12 years were analyzed in an attempt to discover why in some patients with angina pectoris there are long stable clinical courses and in others the courses proceed rapidly to death. It was found that patients with completed coronary occlusions, usually with distal portions reconstituted by collateral, had favorable prognoses with prolonged longevity. Patients with multiple high grade narrowings of the coronary arteries, on the other hand, had poor prognoses with high attrition rates. The more stenotic lesions present in the coronary arteries, the higher the attrition rates. Completed coronary occlusions, therefore, have been classified as nonprecarious while local coronary stenoses greater than 50 percent of the lumen diameter have been classified as degrees of precariousness according to the number of lesions present. When compared with classification by number of diseased vessels and by arteriographic score of Friesinger, the nonprecarious cases had better prognoses than the precarious.", "PMID": 442626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5702", "title": "Nosocomial varicella. Part II: suggested guidelines for management.", "content": "Because of the potential severity of varicella among patients with compromised immunity in hospitals, a case of nosocomial varicella demands immediate attention. Patients with varicella should be discharged or placed in strict isolation. Other patients in the hospital should be screened for varicella exposure and susceptibility, and isolated as necessary. Exposed staff members must also be screened for susceptibility. Prompt institution of these measures should prevent or reduce transmission of nosocomial varicella.", "contents": "Nosocomial varicella. Part II: suggested guidelines for management. Because of the potential severity of varicella among patients with compromised immunity in hospitals, a case of nosocomial varicella demands immediate attention. Patients with varicella should be discharged or placed in strict isolation. Other patients in the hospital should be screened for varicella exposure and susceptibility, and isolated as necessary. Exposed staff members must also be screened for susceptibility. Prompt institution of these measures should prevent or reduce transmission of nosocomial varicella.", "PMID": 442627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5703", "title": "[Intraoperative diagnosis in vascular surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "The different methods of intraoperative diagnosis in vascular reconstructive surgery are described. Intraoperative angiography is of importance in the morphological assessment of reconstructive procedures, whilst functional assessment is based on pressure difference and basic and peak flow determination. The peripheral resistance can be calculated from these parameters. With intraoperative diagnosis the immediate postoperative occlusion rate is lowered and the haemodynamic state in the reconstructed part can be better judged, which is of prognostic value in long-term functional terms.", "contents": "[Intraoperative diagnosis in vascular surgery (author's transl)]. The different methods of intraoperative diagnosis in vascular reconstructive surgery are described. Intraoperative angiography is of importance in the morphological assessment of reconstructive procedures, whilst functional assessment is based on pressure difference and basic and peak flow determination. The peripheral resistance can be calculated from these parameters. With intraoperative diagnosis the immediate postoperative occlusion rate is lowered and the haemodynamic state in the reconstructed part can be better judged, which is of prognostic value in long-term functional terms.", "PMID": 442677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5704", "title": "[Surgery of the mitral valve (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is given on the results of different forms of mitral valve operations in 866 patients. Closed mitral valvulotomy was performed in 519 patients and mitral valve replacement in 291 cases. Open mitral valve anuloplasty was performed as reconstructive surgical procedure in 15 patients. The overall mortality was 10.4%. Follow-up of the surviving patients showed that the long-term results of mitral valve replacement are significantly worse than those of mitral valve reconstruction.", "contents": "[Surgery of the mitral valve (author's transl)]. A report is given on the results of different forms of mitral valve operations in 866 patients. Closed mitral valvulotomy was performed in 519 patients and mitral valve replacement in 291 cases. Open mitral valve anuloplasty was performed as reconstructive surgical procedure in 15 patients. The overall mortality was 10.4%. Follow-up of the surviving patients showed that the long-term results of mitral valve replacement are significantly worse than those of mitral valve reconstruction.", "PMID": 442678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5705", "title": "[Surgery of extracranial carotid artery occlusion (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is given on the results achieved in 197 procedures undertaken for extracranial cerebrovascular insufficiency in 186 patients. Patch angioplasty of the common carotid and internal carotid artery were performed in 162 cases, whilst in 30 patients kinking or looping of the internal carotid artery was corrected by means of arteriopexy, segmental resection of the common carotid artery or by means of reimplantation of the transected internal artery proximal to its origin. Neurological deficits with incomplete recovery were observed in 2 cases (1%). The mortality rate was 3%.", "contents": "[Surgery of extracranial carotid artery occlusion (author's transl)]. A report is given on the results achieved in 197 procedures undertaken for extracranial cerebrovascular insufficiency in 186 patients. Patch angioplasty of the common carotid and internal carotid artery were performed in 162 cases, whilst in 30 patients kinking or looping of the internal carotid artery was corrected by means of arteriopexy, segmental resection of the common carotid artery or by means of reimplantation of the transected internal artery proximal to its origin. Neurological deficits with incomplete recovery were observed in 2 cases (1%). The mortality rate was 3%.", "PMID": 442679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5706", "title": "[Endoscopic sphincterotomy and removal of a gallstone from the common bile duct (author's transl)].", "content": "Twenty-one patients with an average age of 69 years were subjected to endoscopic sphincterotomy of the papilla of Vater over the past six months. This therapeutic approach was successful and without ensuring complications in 20 of these patients. Hence, endoscopic sphincterotomy can be recommended in the case of elderly or high-risk patients as an alternative form of therapy to surgery with the attendent dangers of anaesthesia and, in particular, duodenotomy. However, it is unlikely to become a routine procedure since a team of highly-experienced specialists in endoscopy is mandatory with the close cooperation of radiologists and surgeons. The technique, indications and complications are mentioned.", "contents": "[Endoscopic sphincterotomy and removal of a gallstone from the common bile duct (author's transl)]. Twenty-one patients with an average age of 69 years were subjected to endoscopic sphincterotomy of the papilla of Vater over the past six months. This therapeutic approach was successful and without ensuring complications in 20 of these patients. Hence, endoscopic sphincterotomy can be recommended in the case of elderly or high-risk patients as an alternative form of therapy to surgery with the attendent dangers of anaesthesia and, in particular, duodenotomy. However, it is unlikely to become a routine procedure since a team of highly-experienced specialists in endoscopy is mandatory with the close cooperation of radiologists and surgeons. The technique, indications and complications are mentioned.", "PMID": 442680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5707", "title": "[Peripheral pulmonary stenosis due to tumour compression (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is presented of the occurrence of peripheral pulmonary stenosis due to tumour compression in a 12 year-old boy. The tumour was identified as a liposarcoma of the mediastinum, which caused complete occlusion of the left pulmonary artery and stenosis of the right pulmonary artery. This was followed by an extreme increase in prestenotic pressure with right heart failure.", "contents": "[Peripheral pulmonary stenosis due to tumour compression (author's transl)]. A report is presented of the occurrence of peripheral pulmonary stenosis due to tumour compression in a 12 year-old boy. The tumour was identified as a liposarcoma of the mediastinum, which caused complete occlusion of the left pulmonary artery and stenosis of the right pulmonary artery. This was followed by an extreme increase in prestenotic pressure with right heart failure.", "PMID": 442681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5708", "title": "[Rickets prophylaxis by daily administration of vitamin D tablets (author's transl)].", "content": "The efficiency of a daily vitamin D prophylaxis with tablets (\"Laevovit D3\"), containing 1000 I.U. cholecalciferol was studied in newborn babies (most of them \"prematures\") over a period of about 5 weeks. The blood-values of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol were taken as parameter and determined 1 week and 5 weeks after the start of vitamin D prophylaxis. The data obtained were--with very few exceptions-- in a range considered to be protective against development of vitamin D deficiency. No significant difference could be found comparing vitamin D prophylaxis with these \"microtablets\" vs. liquid vitamin D preparations.", "contents": "[Rickets prophylaxis by daily administration of vitamin D tablets (author's transl)]. The efficiency of a daily vitamin D prophylaxis with tablets (\"Laevovit D3\"), containing 1000 I.U. cholecalciferol was studied in newborn babies (most of them \"prematures\") over a period of about 5 weeks. The blood-values of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol were taken as parameter and determined 1 week and 5 weeks after the start of vitamin D prophylaxis. The data obtained were--with very few exceptions-- in a range considered to be protective against development of vitamin D deficiency. No significant difference could be found comparing vitamin D prophylaxis with these \"microtablets\" vs. liquid vitamin D preparations.", "PMID": 442683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5709", "title": "[Application of vasopressin in diagnostic radiology (author's transl)].", "content": "Vasopressin is demonstrated in 100 selected patients as a suitable drug to remove intestinal gas in diagnostic radiology. After subcutaneous injection of 10 IU Vasopressin only slight side-effects occurred in 35% of the patients. Under strict attention of the contraindications the use of Vasopressin is nearly without risk and leads to partially excellent results.", "contents": "[Application of vasopressin in diagnostic radiology (author's transl)]. Vasopressin is demonstrated in 100 selected patients as a suitable drug to remove intestinal gas in diagnostic radiology. After subcutaneous injection of 10 IU Vasopressin only slight side-effects occurred in 35% of the patients. Under strict attention of the contraindications the use of Vasopressin is nearly without risk and leads to partially excellent results.", "PMID": 442684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5710", "title": "[Hospitalisation of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical symptoms of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, transferred from other hospitals to the Pulmological Center of Vienna, were analyzed. Among 373 transferred patients there were 113 cases (30.3%) of pulmonary tuberculosis. A significant change in the range of symptoms between the examined period (1976/77) and former periods could be shown. By a more accurate regard of the symptoms a primary admission to pulmonary center should be possible in about half the cases and the interval between the primary symptoms and the initial treatment would be shortened in this way. It seems, that tuberculosis of the lung as common sickness only has historical significance, as acute illness of single patient it is still important.", "contents": "[Hospitalisation of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (author's transl)]. The clinical symptoms of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, transferred from other hospitals to the Pulmological Center of Vienna, were analyzed. Among 373 transferred patients there were 113 cases (30.3%) of pulmonary tuberculosis. A significant change in the range of symptoms between the examined period (1976/77) and former periods could be shown. By a more accurate regard of the symptoms a primary admission to pulmonary center should be possible in about half the cases and the interval between the primary symptoms and the initial treatment would be shortened in this way. It seems, that tuberculosis of the lung as common sickness only has historical significance, as acute illness of single patient it is still important.", "PMID": 442685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5711", "title": "[Treatment of osteoporosis with a new retard-preparation of sodium fluoride (author's transl)].", "content": "25 female patients with different forms of osteoporosis (progredient form in elderly patients, steroid osteoporosis, involutive osteoporosis) treated during a period varying between 1 to 24 months with a new compound preparation containing 25 mg sodium fluoride and 200 mg L-ascorbic acid per tablet. The daily dose amounts to 2 tablets. Clinical success was observed in 18 patients, X-ray controls showed increase of bone density in 8 patients. In 3 cases it was necessary to discontinue treatment because of side effects (2 patients with pains in the bones and joints, 1 patient with stomach troubles). Late side effects have not been observed. At present the treatment of certain forms of osteoporosis with sodium fluoride is the only effective therapy of this disease.", "contents": "[Treatment of osteoporosis with a new retard-preparation of sodium fluoride (author's transl)]. 25 female patients with different forms of osteoporosis (progredient form in elderly patients, steroid osteoporosis, involutive osteoporosis) treated during a period varying between 1 to 24 months with a new compound preparation containing 25 mg sodium fluoride and 200 mg L-ascorbic acid per tablet. The daily dose amounts to 2 tablets. Clinical success was observed in 18 patients, X-ray controls showed increase of bone density in 8 patients. In 3 cases it was necessary to discontinue treatment because of side effects (2 patients with pains in the bones and joints, 1 patient with stomach troubles). Late side effects have not been observed. At present the treatment of certain forms of osteoporosis with sodium fluoride is the only effective therapy of this disease.", "PMID": 442686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5712", "title": "Effect of temperature on alanine uptake by membrane vesicles isolated from a psychrophilic marine bacterium.", "content": "The effect of temperature on the membranes of Ant-300, a psychrophilic marine bacterium, was studied by measuring alanine uptake by isolated membrane vesicles. Uptake was observed from 0 to 35 degrees C. The maximum initial rate of uptake occurred at 25 degrees C although more alanine was ultimately taken up at temperatures from 10 to 20 degrees C. An ARRHENIUS plot of these data shows a single infection point at 7.8 degrees C. Within 10 min, over 50% of the alpha-aminoisobutyric acid taken up by whole cells at 5 degrees C was lost after a temperature shift to 25 degrees C. Vesicles preloaded with alanine at 5 degrees C did not become leaky when shifted to 25 degrees C. In addition, exposure of the vesicles to 25 degrees C for 30 min did not affect subsequent alanine uptake at 5 degrees C. The data obtained suggest that the loss of the uptake and permeability control functions of membranes from psychrophilic bacteria at elevated temperatures is not due to degeneration of the membrane itself, but rather to a control or regulatory mechanism associated with whole cells.", "contents": "Effect of temperature on alanine uptake by membrane vesicles isolated from a psychrophilic marine bacterium. The effect of temperature on the membranes of Ant-300, a psychrophilic marine bacterium, was studied by measuring alanine uptake by isolated membrane vesicles. Uptake was observed from 0 to 35 degrees C. The maximum initial rate of uptake occurred at 25 degrees C although more alanine was ultimately taken up at temperatures from 10 to 20 degrees C. An ARRHENIUS plot of these data shows a single infection point at 7.8 degrees C. Within 10 min, over 50% of the alpha-aminoisobutyric acid taken up by whole cells at 5 degrees C was lost after a temperature shift to 25 degrees C. Vesicles preloaded with alanine at 5 degrees C did not become leaky when shifted to 25 degrees C. In addition, exposure of the vesicles to 25 degrees C for 30 min did not affect subsequent alanine uptake at 5 degrees C. The data obtained suggest that the loss of the uptake and permeability control functions of membranes from psychrophilic bacteria at elevated temperatures is not due to degeneration of the membrane itself, but rather to a control or regulatory mechanism associated with whole cells.", "PMID": 442702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5713", "title": "Serum mineral changes due to exogenous ATP and certain trace elements in experimental diabetes.", "content": "The intravenous injection of zinc or manganese chloride immediately before and 15 minutes after alloxan or dithizone prevented the usual hyperglycemia observed 24 hours after induction of diabetes. Injection of zinc chloride in alloxan diabetes led to normalization of sodium while zinc, copper, iron and magnesium remained high and calcium and potassium remained low as in alloxan. In case of dithizone diabetes, the administration of zinc salt led to an increase in serum zinc, magnesium and potassium and to a decrease in serum calcium while the sodium level returned to normal. Manganese plus alloxan led to a normalization of serum zinc, copper, potassium and sodium. In the case of dithizone plus manganese only magnesium was raised while the other elements were unchanged when compared to animals injected with dithizone only. Chromium and cobalt lowered the blood glucose to a certain extent however it did not affect most of the elements. The same changes occurred in all elements as with alloxan or dithizone alone. Pretreatment with ATP led to a normalization of serum zinc, copper, magnesium, sodium and potassium, while in case of iron it remained high and calcium remained low as that found in alloxan diabetic rats.", "contents": "Serum mineral changes due to exogenous ATP and certain trace elements in experimental diabetes. The intravenous injection of zinc or manganese chloride immediately before and 15 minutes after alloxan or dithizone prevented the usual hyperglycemia observed 24 hours after induction of diabetes. Injection of zinc chloride in alloxan diabetes led to normalization of sodium while zinc, copper, iron and magnesium remained high and calcium and potassium remained low as in alloxan. In case of dithizone diabetes, the administration of zinc salt led to an increase in serum zinc, magnesium and potassium and to a decrease in serum calcium while the sodium level returned to normal. Manganese plus alloxan led to a normalization of serum zinc, copper, potassium and sodium. In the case of dithizone plus manganese only magnesium was raised while the other elements were unchanged when compared to animals injected with dithizone only. Chromium and cobalt lowered the blood glucose to a certain extent however it did not affect most of the elements. The same changes occurred in all elements as with alloxan or dithizone alone. Pretreatment with ATP led to a normalization of serum zinc, copper, magnesium, sodium and potassium, while in case of iron it remained high and calcium remained low as that found in alloxan diabetic rats.", "PMID": 442705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5714", "title": "[Fructose tolerance and utilization in healthy and chronically diseased liver].", "content": "In 12 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and 11 normal subjects (N) equimolar (0.75 g/kg/h for 4 hrs.) 14C-(1)-glucose and 14C-(1)-fructose infusions were administered. When given fructose, N and LC showed only a small increase of serum-glucose and -fructose concentrations in steady state. In N and LC the total fructose clearance was significantly higher than the total glucose clearance. No differences were found between N and LC. The metabolic clearance was equal in both groups when given fructose, whereas during glucose infusion lower in LC than in N. 30% of the infused 14C-fructose were recovered in 14C-glucose. The renal loss in both groups was higher for glucose than for fructose. A more extensive renal 14C-excretion during infusion of 14C-fructose was due to a higher 14C-lactate excretion.", "contents": "[Fructose tolerance and utilization in healthy and chronically diseased liver]. In 12 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and 11 normal subjects (N) equimolar (0.75 g/kg/h for 4 hrs.) 14C-(1)-glucose and 14C-(1)-fructose infusions were administered. When given fructose, N and LC showed only a small increase of serum-glucose and -fructose concentrations in steady state. In N and LC the total fructose clearance was significantly higher than the total glucose clearance. No differences were found between N and LC. The metabolic clearance was equal in both groups when given fructose, whereas during glucose infusion lower in LC than in N. 30% of the infused 14C-fructose were recovered in 14C-glucose. The renal loss in both groups was higher for glucose than for fructose. A more extensive renal 14C-excretion during infusion of 14C-fructose was due to a higher 14C-lactate excretion.", "PMID": 442706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5715", "title": "[Sulfites in infusion solutions].", "content": "9 commercially available high-calorie carbohydrate solutions were investigated for their sulfite content. It became evident that 6 manufacturers of infusion solutions add varying amounts of sulfite to their solutions. We consider such an addition to be unnecessary and risky from the toxicological point of view.", "contents": "[Sulfites in infusion solutions]. 9 commercially available high-calorie carbohydrate solutions were investigated for their sulfite content. It became evident that 6 manufacturers of infusion solutions add varying amounts of sulfite to their solutions. We consider such an addition to be unnecessary and risky from the toxicological point of view.", "PMID": 442707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5716", "title": "[Effect of caffeine on motor reactions and visual-mental processing time].", "content": "The effect of coffee without and with caffeine (200 mg) on the performance of \"awake\" respectively \"fatigued\" subjects was proved. 5 females and 7 males (22 to 32 years) were chosen for the cross-over double-blind study. Motor reaction time, visual-mental processing time, reading-speed and reading-errors were recorded. Further experiments under aggravated conditions were carried out. In the morning (\"awake\") caffeine increases the efficiency of all parameters excepted the reading errors. At night (\"fatigued\") the increase by caffeine is insignificant. Even in some subjects caffeine decreases the speed of reading and increases the number of errors. Under test-conditions, which were aggravated by strong acoustical disturbance, caffeine does not improve efficiency, compared with caffeine-free coffee. Overriding into the range of decreasing performance in spite of increasing central activity was not found under any test-condition.", "contents": "[Effect of caffeine on motor reactions and visual-mental processing time]. The effect of coffee without and with caffeine (200 mg) on the performance of \"awake\" respectively \"fatigued\" subjects was proved. 5 females and 7 males (22 to 32 years) were chosen for the cross-over double-blind study. Motor reaction time, visual-mental processing time, reading-speed and reading-errors were recorded. Further experiments under aggravated conditions were carried out. In the morning (\"awake\") caffeine increases the efficiency of all parameters excepted the reading errors. At night (\"fatigued\") the increase by caffeine is insignificant. Even in some subjects caffeine decreases the speed of reading and increases the number of errors. Under test-conditions, which were aggravated by strong acoustical disturbance, caffeine does not improve efficiency, compared with caffeine-free coffee. Overriding into the range of decreasing performance in spite of increasing central activity was not found under any test-condition.", "PMID": 442709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5717", "title": "[Nutritional states in a medical clinic].", "content": "The nutritional state of 168 patients in a medical clinic was determined with the following parameters: Weight/height index, triceps skin fold, arm muscle circumference, creatinine/height index, albumin, prealbumin, transferrin and cholinesterase. Using these parameters we found that 51.2% of these patients were suffering from malnutrition (26.2% marasmus, 7.7% kwashiorkor-like syndrome, 17.3% marasmic kwashiorkor). Triceps skin fold, arm muscle circumference and creatinine/height index were the most precise parameters to confirm marasmus. Prealbumin and cholinesterase are especially recommended to determine acute protein deficiency, albumin to confirm chronic protein deficiency. It was also possible to demonstrate the deleterious effect of malnutrition on the immunological system of the patient through determination of the absolute lymphocyte count in peripheral blood and intracutaneous testing with streptokinase-dornase, mumps skin test antigen and candida vaccine.", "contents": "[Nutritional states in a medical clinic]. The nutritional state of 168 patients in a medical clinic was determined with the following parameters: Weight/height index, triceps skin fold, arm muscle circumference, creatinine/height index, albumin, prealbumin, transferrin and cholinesterase. Using these parameters we found that 51.2% of these patients were suffering from malnutrition (26.2% marasmus, 7.7% kwashiorkor-like syndrome, 17.3% marasmic kwashiorkor). Triceps skin fold, arm muscle circumference and creatinine/height index were the most precise parameters to confirm marasmus. Prealbumin and cholinesterase are especially recommended to determine acute protein deficiency, albumin to confirm chronic protein deficiency. It was also possible to demonstrate the deleterious effect of malnutrition on the immunological system of the patient through determination of the absolute lymphocyte count in peripheral blood and intracutaneous testing with streptokinase-dornase, mumps skin test antigen and candida vaccine.", "PMID": 442710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5718", "title": "Chemical and biological studies on banana fruit.", "content": "Chemical and biological evaluation of both the edible and nonedible portion of banana fruit was carried out. The possibility of using the nonedible portion (peel) as animal feed was also explored. The results showed a remarkable difference concerning the chemical composition of both the edible and nonedible portions. The amino acid contents were proved to vastly deficient with regard to the indispensable amino acids with exception of phenylalanine which was found in good amounts in the edible portion (pulp). The biological results demonstrated that neither the pulp nor the peel portions yielded good P.E.R. values when used at 6% protein level. The P.E.R values showed negative values which amounted to -1.75, -5.85 and -4.67 for the pulp and peel diets respectively. Incorporation of the stock diet to the peel diet resulted in a slight increase which amounted to 6% in both male and female rat groups.", "contents": "Chemical and biological studies on banana fruit. Chemical and biological evaluation of both the edible and nonedible portion of banana fruit was carried out. The possibility of using the nonedible portion (peel) as animal feed was also explored. The results showed a remarkable difference concerning the chemical composition of both the edible and nonedible portions. The amino acid contents were proved to vastly deficient with regard to the indispensable amino acids with exception of phenylalanine which was found in good amounts in the edible portion (pulp). The biological results demonstrated that neither the pulp nor the peel portions yielded good P.E.R. values when used at 6% protein level. The P.E.R values showed negative values which amounted to -1.75, -5.85 and -4.67 for the pulp and peel diets respectively. Incorporation of the stock diet to the peel diet resulted in a slight increase which amounted to 6% in both male and female rat groups.", "PMID": 442711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5719", "title": "[Diaplacental transfer of verapamil in guinea pigs (author's transl)].", "content": "Verapamil (1--50 mcg/kg/min) was given to guinea pigs by intravenous infusion for 30 minutes. The average clinical dosage amounts to 1 (0,5--2) mcg/kg/min. At doses of 1--10 mcg/kg/min we could not find pharmacologically effective concentrations of verapamil in plasma, although concentrations in mother rose corresponding to administered doses. Only at dosage 50 mcg/kg/min we found comparatively to the mother low, but clearly measurable concentrations also in fetal plasma. That means: Verapamil, administered to guinea pigs--hemomonochorial placentation like man--in dosage, given for tocolysis does not appear in fetal plasma with pharmacologically effective concentration.", "contents": "[Diaplacental transfer of verapamil in guinea pigs (author's transl)]. Verapamil (1--50 mcg/kg/min) was given to guinea pigs by intravenous infusion for 30 minutes. The average clinical dosage amounts to 1 (0,5--2) mcg/kg/min. At doses of 1--10 mcg/kg/min we could not find pharmacologically effective concentrations of verapamil in plasma, although concentrations in mother rose corresponding to administered doses. Only at dosage 50 mcg/kg/min we found comparatively to the mother low, but clearly measurable concentrations also in fetal plasma. That means: Verapamil, administered to guinea pigs--hemomonochorial placentation like man--in dosage, given for tocolysis does not appear in fetal plasma with pharmacologically effective concentration.", "PMID": 442729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5720", "title": "[The maternal and perinatal mortality and morbitity in attendance to Caesarean section in the period from 1956--1976 at the UFK-Jena (author's transl)].", "content": "In the period from 1956--76 1 468 caesarean sections were accomplished at the UFK-Jena. 44 043 children were delivery during the 21-year period. The number of caesarean sections rose from 1,08% to 1956 to 10,8% in 1976. The fetal indication in 1956 was zero, on the other side it amounts to 34,3% in 1976. First place of the maternal indication in the 21-year period took in the cephalo pelvine disproportion. In the same time the maternal mortality in attendance of caesarean section was 12,3%. Considering the period between 1969--76, the maternal mortality fell to 2%. Maternal morbidity diminished from 1965 and obtained 23% in the period between 1974/1976. The feverish childbed took in the first place of the maternal morbidity (30%). The perinatal mortality fall from 28,57% in the period between 1956/1958 to 3,71% in the period between 1974/1976. The perinatal morbidity we could'nt state certainly. In 8,3% we found perinatal morbidity by acidosis. 5,5% of children, delivered by caesarean section needed medical care. 16,4% of all children were either small for gestational age or immature. The problem of caesarean section as an important method for termination of labor is discussed.", "contents": "[The maternal and perinatal mortality and morbitity in attendance to Caesarean section in the period from 1956--1976 at the UFK-Jena (author's transl)]. In the period from 1956--76 1 468 caesarean sections were accomplished at the UFK-Jena. 44 043 children were delivery during the 21-year period. The number of caesarean sections rose from 1,08% to 1956 to 10,8% in 1976. The fetal indication in 1956 was zero, on the other side it amounts to 34,3% in 1976. First place of the maternal indication in the 21-year period took in the cephalo pelvine disproportion. In the same time the maternal mortality in attendance of caesarean section was 12,3%. Considering the period between 1969--76, the maternal mortality fell to 2%. Maternal morbidity diminished from 1965 and obtained 23% in the period between 1974/1976. The feverish childbed took in the first place of the maternal morbidity (30%). The perinatal mortality fall from 28,57% in the period between 1956/1958 to 3,71% in the period between 1974/1976. The perinatal morbidity we could'nt state certainly. In 8,3% we found perinatal morbidity by acidosis. 5,5% of children, delivered by caesarean section needed medical care. 16,4% of all children were either small for gestational age or immature. The problem of caesarean section as an important method for termination of labor is discussed.", "PMID": 442730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5721", "title": "[The inhibition of coagulation in cord plasma (author's transl)].", "content": "203 Plasma samples from the umbilical vein were tested for their inhibitory activity in coagulation. Disturbance of the assay by the presence of thrombocytes, fibrin(ogen) degradation products and by storage was avoided by an improved preparation method of the plasma. The mean inhibition was dependent on the way of delivery (spontaneous, by vaginal operation or by caesarean section). The mean inhibition was also dependent on birth weight and on the duration of gravidity. A possible mechanism for the generation of the inhibition is discussed.", "contents": "[The inhibition of coagulation in cord plasma (author's transl)]. 203 Plasma samples from the umbilical vein were tested for their inhibitory activity in coagulation. Disturbance of the assay by the presence of thrombocytes, fibrin(ogen) degradation products and by storage was avoided by an improved preparation method of the plasma. The mean inhibition was dependent on the way of delivery (spontaneous, by vaginal operation or by caesarean section). The mean inhibition was also dependent on birth weight and on the duration of gravidity. A possible mechanism for the generation of the inhibition is discussed.", "PMID": 442731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5722", "title": "[Anatomy of cervical changes at the end of pregnancy (author's transl)].", "content": "The problem of anatomical changes in the uterine cervix at the end of pregnancy is discussed and contrasted to the anatomy of the uterine corpus during pregnancy. The muscles of the uterine cervix have proven functionally unimportant in contrast to earlier held views. However, the function of the myometrium of the uterine corpus has its well known significance. Very important changes appear, on the other hand, in the connective tissue of the cervix. The collagen and the ground substance are metabolized completely. As a consequence, the resulting structural transformation allows rapid dilatation of the cervix during delivery. We have to admit that, unfortunately, we have no causal explanation for the overal control of this connective tissue transformation either by hormones or by the autonomic nervous system.", "contents": "[Anatomy of cervical changes at the end of pregnancy (author's transl)]. The problem of anatomical changes in the uterine cervix at the end of pregnancy is discussed and contrasted to the anatomy of the uterine corpus during pregnancy. The muscles of the uterine cervix have proven functionally unimportant in contrast to earlier held views. However, the function of the myometrium of the uterine corpus has its well known significance. Very important changes appear, on the other hand, in the connective tissue of the cervix. The collagen and the ground substance are metabolized completely. As a consequence, the resulting structural transformation allows rapid dilatation of the cervix during delivery. We have to admit that, unfortunately, we have no causal explanation for the overal control of this connective tissue transformation either by hormones or by the autonomic nervous system.", "PMID": 442733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5723", "title": "[New possibilities of drug therapy for herpes simplex infections of the skin].", "content": "Jodo-desoxyuridine (IDU) of different concentrations in different vehicles can shorten the duration of primary infections and recurrences of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections to about one third. Therapeutical failures can be due to the development of IDU resistence. Ethyl-desoxyuridine (EDU) in a gel base was found to reduce the mean duration of acute herpetic lesions to about 50%. 42 recurrences of 16 patients with herpes labialis and 36 recurrences of 10 patients with herpes genitalis were observed and statistically evaluated. In cold sores 0,3% EDU-gel had similar effects as the 2,0% EDU-gel, what shortened significantly (0,001 less than p less than 0,01) the duration of skin lesions. In herpes genitalis both concentrations had good effects. 0,3% EDU-gel reduced the healing time significantly (p less than or equal to 0,05). Remarkable was the quick disappearence of subjective complaints in all treated patients. Side effects were not observed.", "contents": "[New possibilities of drug therapy for herpes simplex infections of the skin]. Jodo-desoxyuridine (IDU) of different concentrations in different vehicles can shorten the duration of primary infections and recurrences of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections to about one third. Therapeutical failures can be due to the development of IDU resistence. Ethyl-desoxyuridine (EDU) in a gel base was found to reduce the mean duration of acute herpetic lesions to about 50%. 42 recurrences of 16 patients with herpes labialis and 36 recurrences of 10 patients with herpes genitalis were observed and statistically evaluated. In cold sores 0,3% EDU-gel had similar effects as the 2,0% EDU-gel, what shortened significantly (0,001 less than p less than 0,01) the duration of skin lesions. In herpes genitalis both concentrations had good effects. 0,3% EDU-gel reduced the healing time significantly (p less than or equal to 0,05). Remarkable was the quick disappearence of subjective complaints in all treated patients. Side effects were not observed.", "PMID": 442740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5724", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics of lidocaine after intramuscular injection in patients with acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)].", "content": "The kinetics of lidocaine after i.m. injection (M. deltoideus) of 300 mg were studied in patients with acute myocardial infarction in the course of 4 hrs.; another patient received this i.m. dose after being pretreated with 100 mg lidocaine i.v. The antiarrhythmically effective threshold concentration in plasma (1.5 mg/l) was reached after an average time of 5.5 min by 9 out of 10 patients. The mean value of maximum concentration after 30 min was 3.6 mg/l in 10 patients and the mean duration for exceeding the threshold (1.5 mg/l) was about 2 hrs. The elimination half-life for lidocaine valued 1.77 hrs. The toxic threshold concentration of 6 mg/l was exceeded for a short time by 3 patients without any side effects; in three other patients suffering from side-effects no relation to high plasma levels of lidocaine was observed.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics of lidocaine after intramuscular injection in patients with acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)]. The kinetics of lidocaine after i.m. injection (M. deltoideus) of 300 mg were studied in patients with acute myocardial infarction in the course of 4 hrs.; another patient received this i.m. dose after being pretreated with 100 mg lidocaine i.v. The antiarrhythmically effective threshold concentration in plasma (1.5 mg/l) was reached after an average time of 5.5 min by 9 out of 10 patients. The mean value of maximum concentration after 30 min was 3.6 mg/l in 10 patients and the mean duration for exceeding the threshold (1.5 mg/l) was about 2 hrs. The elimination half-life for lidocaine valued 1.77 hrs. The toxic threshold concentration of 6 mg/l was exceeded for a short time by 3 patients without any side effects; in three other patients suffering from side-effects no relation to high plasma levels of lidocaine was observed.", "PMID": 442753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5725", "title": "[Electrophysiologic effects of dobutamine on cardiac conduction system (author's transl)].", "content": "The electrophysiologic effects of dobutamine (D) (3 and/or 6microgram/kg/min), a new beta1 stimulator, was studied in 12 patients with different disturbances of rhythm (sinus-node dysfunction, AV-block, sinus-bradycardia, paroxysmal tachycardia) utilizing His-bundle electrography and right atrial pacing. During infusion of D sinus-rate (HR) increased significantly from 61 to 71/min. Not only in cases with enhanced sinus-node-recovery-time (SKEZ) both, the absolutely (p less than 0.05) and the corrected SKEZ(-18%,-26%) were reduced by D otherwise the calculated sino-atrial-conduction time (SACTc) was shortened only in single cases. No effect could be registered in intraventricular (HV) conduction time, whereas the AV-nodal conduction time (AH) was significantly (p less than 0.05) reduced, more effect was seen at increasing stimulation of heart rate. The intraatrial conduction time (Ah-t) was shortened not significantly. In connection with reduced AH-interval the maximum of conduction frequency of the AV-node was significantly enhanced (10%, 13%). D shortened the refractory-period (RP) of atrium and AV-node, the effect was significant (p less than 0.05) only in the functional-RP of the atrium and relative RP of the AV-node.", "contents": "[Electrophysiologic effects of dobutamine on cardiac conduction system (author's transl)]. The electrophysiologic effects of dobutamine (D) (3 and/or 6microgram/kg/min), a new beta1 stimulator, was studied in 12 patients with different disturbances of rhythm (sinus-node dysfunction, AV-block, sinus-bradycardia, paroxysmal tachycardia) utilizing His-bundle electrography and right atrial pacing. During infusion of D sinus-rate (HR) increased significantly from 61 to 71/min. Not only in cases with enhanced sinus-node-recovery-time (SKEZ) both, the absolutely (p less than 0.05) and the corrected SKEZ(-18%,-26%) were reduced by D otherwise the calculated sino-atrial-conduction time (SACTc) was shortened only in single cases. No effect could be registered in intraventricular (HV) conduction time, whereas the AV-nodal conduction time (AH) was significantly (p less than 0.05) reduced, more effect was seen at increasing stimulation of heart rate. The intraatrial conduction time (Ah-t) was shortened not significantly. In connection with reduced AH-interval the maximum of conduction frequency of the AV-node was significantly enhanced (10%, 13%). D shortened the refractory-period (RP) of atrium and AV-node, the effect was significant (p less than 0.05) only in the functional-RP of the atrium and relative RP of the AV-node.", "PMID": 442754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5726", "title": "[Coronary aneurysm with rupture into the right atrium (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of a double aneurysm of the left circumflex coronary artery with rupture into the right atrium is described. Additionally, the clinical symptoms of coronary aneurysms and the possible complications are discussed.", "contents": "[Coronary aneurysm with rupture into the right atrium (author's transl)]. A case of a double aneurysm of the left circumflex coronary artery with rupture into the right atrium is described. Additionally, the clinical symptoms of coronary aneurysms and the possible complications are discussed.", "PMID": 442755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5727", "title": "[Ventricular rupture during acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)].", "content": "In a series of 523 consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) 112 died; among these were 18 with rupture of the free wall of the left ventricle (HR) (group RU); two other cohorts were formed: one sample of all patients with acute (transmural) myocardial infarction (group KO) and another cohort of death of AMI in 1976 (EX). 1. patients with HR are significantly older than the KO group; there is no difference in age compared to the patients who died of AMI other than HR (group EX). 2. Women with AMI have a higher chance to die of HR than men. 3. The RU group has significantly more often clinical signs of congestive heart failure than the control group. 4. Cardiogenic shock is significantly more frequent in the RU-group than in the control group. 5. All deaths (EX + RU) have worse hemodynamic data than the control group (KO). 6. Elevated blood pressure (before and after AMI) could not be identified as a risk factor for HR in our patients. 7. In the course of AMI, death in pump failure occurs significantly later than heart rupture.", "contents": "[Ventricular rupture during acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)]. In a series of 523 consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) 112 died; among these were 18 with rupture of the free wall of the left ventricle (HR) (group RU); two other cohorts were formed: one sample of all patients with acute (transmural) myocardial infarction (group KO) and another cohort of death of AMI in 1976 (EX). 1. patients with HR are significantly older than the KO group; there is no difference in age compared to the patients who died of AMI other than HR (group EX). 2. Women with AMI have a higher chance to die of HR than men. 3. The RU group has significantly more often clinical signs of congestive heart failure than the control group. 4. Cardiogenic shock is significantly more frequent in the RU-group than in the control group. 5. All deaths (EX + RU) have worse hemodynamic data than the control group (KO). 6. Elevated blood pressure (before and after AMI) could not be identified as a risk factor for HR in our patients. 7. In the course of AMI, death in pump failure occurs significantly later than heart rupture.", "PMID": 442756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5728", "title": "[The usefulness of range-gated pulsed Doppler echocardiography. A review (author's transl)].", "content": "Single-crystal RGPD Echocardiography has clearly become a useful noninvasive ultrasonic method which enlarges the capabilities of investigating the heart. Recording of flow direction and showing disturbed flow allows additional clarification and confirmation of various diagnoses. This single-crystal technique does not allow flow quantification at the present time. The TIH and auditory signal displays of Doppler shift as presently utilized in commercial devices allow qualitative observation but require much experience in test performance and evaluation. The future here is probably in the area of spectral analysis. Present instrumentation employs M-mode echo for Doppler sample localization. Drawbacks include inprecise sample beam localization and non-variable sample volume size. Further, standardization of the Doppler signal is necessary. Combination with 2-D echo in the future will allow more precise sample beam localization and accuracy in flow quantification. The latter area has particular promise and is under investigation but is not yet commercially available.", "contents": "[The usefulness of range-gated pulsed Doppler echocardiography. A review (author's transl)]. Single-crystal RGPD Echocardiography has clearly become a useful noninvasive ultrasonic method which enlarges the capabilities of investigating the heart. Recording of flow direction and showing disturbed flow allows additional clarification and confirmation of various diagnoses. This single-crystal technique does not allow flow quantification at the present time. The TIH and auditory signal displays of Doppler shift as presently utilized in commercial devices allow qualitative observation but require much experience in test performance and evaluation. The future here is probably in the area of spectral analysis. Present instrumentation employs M-mode echo for Doppler sample localization. Drawbacks include inprecise sample beam localization and non-variable sample volume size. Further, standardization of the Doppler signal is necessary. Combination with 2-D echo in the future will allow more precise sample beam localization and accuracy in flow quantification. The latter area has particular promise and is under investigation but is not yet commercially available.", "PMID": 442757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5729", "title": "[Removal of an acute occluding coronary thrombosis by means of a Sones-catheter (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 60-year-old male patient thrombotic occlusion of a dominant right coronary artery was recanalized by means of a Sones-Catheter (8F) two hours after the clinical onset of myocardial infarction. Before recanalization the inferior wall of the left ventricle was akinetic. After recanalization this akinesia and the clinical symptoms of myocardial infarction was almost completely relieved. As evidenced by ECG and enzymes there was only a minor necrosis of the inferior wall. After one week ventricular function angiographically was completely normal. In the right coronary artery there was a 50 percent proximal stenosis, thrombi were completely abolished. Possible implications of this case are discussed.", "contents": "[Removal of an acute occluding coronary thrombosis by means of a Sones-catheter (author's transl)]. In a 60-year-old male patient thrombotic occlusion of a dominant right coronary artery was recanalized by means of a Sones-Catheter (8F) two hours after the clinical onset of myocardial infarction. Before recanalization the inferior wall of the left ventricle was akinetic. After recanalization this akinesia and the clinical symptoms of myocardial infarction was almost completely relieved. As evidenced by ECG and enzymes there was only a minor necrosis of the inferior wall. After one week ventricular function angiographically was completely normal. In the right coronary artery there was a 50 percent proximal stenosis, thrombi were completely abolished. Possible implications of this case are discussed.", "PMID": 442758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5730", "title": "[Report of a family with Holt-Oram syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "Report of a family where the typical symptomatology of Holt-Oram syndrome can be documented over three generations. Holt-Oram syndrome is an autosomal-dominantly inherited disease, characterized by cardiac malformation, mainly septal defects, av-conduction disturbances, malformations of the upper limbs, mainly the radial ray and sometimes by vascular hypoplasia. According to the literature, these symptoms can be seen in variable expressivity in the family reported. Differential diagnosis of the entity and genetic counsel of symptomatic patients and their normal relatives are discussed.", "contents": "[Report of a family with Holt-Oram syndrome (author's transl)]. Report of a family where the typical symptomatology of Holt-Oram syndrome can be documented over three generations. Holt-Oram syndrome is an autosomal-dominantly inherited disease, characterized by cardiac malformation, mainly septal defects, av-conduction disturbances, malformations of the upper limbs, mainly the radial ray and sometimes by vascular hypoplasia. According to the literature, these symptoms can be seen in variable expressivity in the family reported. Differential diagnosis of the entity and genetic counsel of symptomatic patients and their normal relatives are discussed.", "PMID": 442759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5731", "title": "[Benzylpenicillin-induced leucopenia in subacute bacterial endocarditis (author's transl)].", "content": "In the high-dose benzylpenicillin treatment of subacute bacterial endocarditis leucopenia can develop in rare cases. Often it is paralleled by anemia, sometimes also by a decrease in the number of platelets. Myalgia, gastric discomfort, or a sore threat deserve interest as premonitory symptoms. In every case this treatment inevitably needs through hematologic control.", "contents": "[Benzylpenicillin-induced leucopenia in subacute bacterial endocarditis (author's transl)]. In the high-dose benzylpenicillin treatment of subacute bacterial endocarditis leucopenia can develop in rare cases. Often it is paralleled by anemia, sometimes also by a decrease in the number of platelets. Myalgia, gastric discomfort, or a sore threat deserve interest as premonitory symptoms. In every case this treatment inevitably needs through hematologic control.", "PMID": 442760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5732", "title": "[Transvenous retrieval of central embolized fragments of venous catheters (author's transl)].", "content": "The industrial supply with complete venous catheter sets facilitated central venous techniques via various peripheral venous entries. The complication rate by pneumothorax, hemothorax, hemopericardium after perforation of a cardiac cavity and central embolism of catheter fragments are rather rare. Nevertheless the indication for central venous catheterization procedures should be calculated critically in every case because of the hazard of venous thrombosis and embolism or sepsis, which occurs more often. Perforation of a cardiac cavity by venous catheters leads to lethal sequelae in more than 60%. Central embolism of venous catheter fragments without perforation is followed by serious complications in most cases. Therefore the retrieval of the embolized fragment should be attempted by trasvenous technique or by thoracotomy. For the transvenous retrieval a special forceps or the transvenous Dotter retrieval set were very useful in our experience. Centrally embolized catheter fragments were drawn back in three patients after transcutaneous puncture via the femoral vein with two-plane X-ray control.", "contents": "[Transvenous retrieval of central embolized fragments of venous catheters (author's transl)]. The industrial supply with complete venous catheter sets facilitated central venous techniques via various peripheral venous entries. The complication rate by pneumothorax, hemothorax, hemopericardium after perforation of a cardiac cavity and central embolism of catheter fragments are rather rare. Nevertheless the indication for central venous catheterization procedures should be calculated critically in every case because of the hazard of venous thrombosis and embolism or sepsis, which occurs more often. Perforation of a cardiac cavity by venous catheters leads to lethal sequelae in more than 60%. Central embolism of venous catheter fragments without perforation is followed by serious complications in most cases. Therefore the retrieval of the embolized fragment should be attempted by trasvenous technique or by thoracotomy. For the transvenous retrieval a special forceps or the transvenous Dotter retrieval set were very useful in our experience. Centrally embolized catheter fragments were drawn back in three patients after transcutaneous puncture via the femoral vein with two-plane X-ray control.", "PMID": 442761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5733", "title": "[Psychophysiological time series study of 54 patients with cardiovascular diseases during rehabilitation. Evaluation, group differences, and periodicities (author's transl)].", "content": "In the course of a cardiac rehabilitation program 36 patients with myocardial infarction and 18 patients with functional cardiovascular disorders have been studied for 4 to 6 weeks. Data included daily self-report scales of condition, mood, bodily complaints, and daily routine. Physiological variables (blood pressure, heart rate, ventilation, respiratory gas exchange) were measured three times weekly under different conditions (breath holding, hyperventilation, reaction time, multiple reaction test). Analysis of variance indicated positive effects of the rehabilitation program for physiological as well as psychological variables. There were no obvious differences in state change between groups but there were some differences in the average level of variables. Time series analysis by means of autocorrelations revealed circaseptane periodicities which may be interpreted as a reflection of the exogene weekly rhythms.", "contents": "[Psychophysiological time series study of 54 patients with cardiovascular diseases during rehabilitation. Evaluation, group differences, and periodicities (author's transl)]. In the course of a cardiac rehabilitation program 36 patients with myocardial infarction and 18 patients with functional cardiovascular disorders have been studied for 4 to 6 weeks. Data included daily self-report scales of condition, mood, bodily complaints, and daily routine. Physiological variables (blood pressure, heart rate, ventilation, respiratory gas exchange) were measured three times weekly under different conditions (breath holding, hyperventilation, reaction time, multiple reaction test). Analysis of variance indicated positive effects of the rehabilitation program for physiological as well as psychological variables. There were no obvious differences in state change between groups but there were some differences in the average level of variables. Time series analysis by means of autocorrelations revealed circaseptane periodicities which may be interpreted as a reflection of the exogene weekly rhythms.", "PMID": 442762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5734", "title": "Esophageal hiatal hernia and esophagitis: results of the median arcuate ligament repair.", "content": "In properly selected patients, success with the median arcuate posterior gastropexy for hiatal hernia and gastro-esophageal reflux can be anticipated in more than 95% of patients and the recurrence rate is markedly lower than in patients treated by modified crural repair.", "contents": "Esophageal hiatal hernia and esophagitis: results of the median arcuate ligament repair. In properly selected patients, success with the median arcuate posterior gastropexy for hiatal hernia and gastro-esophageal reflux can be anticipated in more than 95% of patients and the recurrence rate is markedly lower than in patients treated by modified crural repair.", "PMID": 442786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5735", "title": "Adolescent blood pressure in Richmond, Virginia, schools.", "content": "The blood pressure of 3,166 adolescents was measured periodically in Richmond during the period 1974-1977. The subjects were students in public and private schools and ranged in age from 14 to 18 years. Analysis of the readings showed minimal differences relating to age, sex, school and race but a strong correlation with obesity. Only two organic renal causes of hypertension were discovered. A 3 1/2-year followup of 902 students indicated significant tracking, with a correlation coefficient of .385 for systolic and .305 for diastolic pressure. At the conclusion of the study, 340 students (10.7%) were identified as needing followup for hypertension.", "contents": "Adolescent blood pressure in Richmond, Virginia, schools. The blood pressure of 3,166 adolescents was measured periodically in Richmond during the period 1974-1977. The subjects were students in public and private schools and ranged in age from 14 to 18 years. Analysis of the readings showed minimal differences relating to age, sex, school and race but a strong correlation with obesity. Only two organic renal causes of hypertension were discovered. A 3 1/2-year followup of 902 students indicated significant tracking, with a correlation coefficient of .385 for systolic and .305 for diastolic pressure. At the conclusion of the study, 340 students (10.7%) were identified as needing followup for hypertension.", "PMID": 442787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5736", "title": "[The levels of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in brook trouts from the River Leine in the area of G\u00f6ttingen (West Germany) (author's transl)].", "content": "In order to evaluate the load of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) imposed on the River Leine by the city of G\u00f6ttingen (medium-sized town) the content of heavy metals in fish samples (which had been collected at two points on the River Leine, upstream, respectively downstream of G\u00f6ttingen--Fig. 1) were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Analysis of heavy metals in brook trout (total fish, flesh, and liver) showed a statistically significant definite increase in some heavy metals, caused by the sewage from the city of G\u00f6ttingen. In the flesh only Cd in the liver Cd, Hg and Zn and in the total fish Cd, Cu and Zn had been increased significantly. All the values of heavy metals in the flesh were lower than the suggested maximum allowable concentrations.", "contents": "[The levels of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in brook trouts from the River Leine in the area of G\u00f6ttingen (West Germany) (author's transl)]. In order to evaluate the load of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) imposed on the River Leine by the city of G\u00f6ttingen (medium-sized town) the content of heavy metals in fish samples (which had been collected at two points on the River Leine, upstream, respectively downstream of G\u00f6ttingen--Fig. 1) were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Analysis of heavy metals in brook trout (total fish, flesh, and liver) showed a statistically significant definite increase in some heavy metals, caused by the sewage from the city of G\u00f6ttingen. In the flesh only Cd in the liver Cd, Hg and Zn and in the total fish Cd, Cu and Zn had been increased significantly. All the values of heavy metals in the flesh were lower than the suggested maximum allowable concentrations.", "PMID": 442828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5737", "title": "The use of a digital oscillator densimeter for the determination of reaction rates of bacterial proteases.", "content": "A digital oscillator densimeter technique for measuring the density of casein solutions at different concentrations, temperatures and pH values was used. The technique was also used to compare the rates of protease-catalysed reactions of two bacterial proteases using casein as a substrate. Enzyme activities using reaction rates of proteases determined by this method were compared with a standard method for protease activity.", "contents": "The use of a digital oscillator densimeter for the determination of reaction rates of bacterial proteases. A digital oscillator densimeter technique for measuring the density of casein solutions at different concentrations, temperatures and pH values was used. The technique was also used to compare the rates of protease-catalysed reactions of two bacterial proteases using casein as a substrate. Enzyme activities using reaction rates of proteases determined by this method were compared with a standard method for protease activity.", "PMID": 442829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5738", "title": "[Acute death from scalding: vital reactions (author's transl)].", "content": "After a boiler explosion on a ship 12 men with cutaneous scalding of 90-100% of body surface were found dead. 15 other fatalities occured after different intervals. This investigation deals with the histomorphologic changes in those 12 cases of instantaneous death. The most important findings consisted of: 1. Thermal injuries of the skin with multiple subcutaneous and corial bubbles, intravascular heat coagulation, and edema in the transitional zone to the undamaged submucosa. 2. Coagulation necrosis of the tracheal and bronchial wall extending to alveolar ducts in central parts of the lung. Marked congestion and edema in the deeper layers of the mucosa. Hemorrhagic alveolar and interstitial edema of the lung. Striking congestion of the pleura parietalis saving up the recessus diaphragmaticus. 3. Acute nephron-nephrosis and periglomerular microangiopathy. Interstitial edema of the myocardium, degeneration of myofibrils. Acute vacuolar degeneration and swelling of hepatocytes. Phagocytosis of detritus by the RHS. 4. Swelling of endothelium and edema of the vascular walls. Intravascular fragments of erythrocytes, platelet aggregation and fibrin thrombi. The fatal cours in these cases is considered to be due to a fulminant shock syndrome.", "contents": "[Acute death from scalding: vital reactions (author's transl)]. After a boiler explosion on a ship 12 men with cutaneous scalding of 90-100% of body surface were found dead. 15 other fatalities occured after different intervals. This investigation deals with the histomorphologic changes in those 12 cases of instantaneous death. The most important findings consisted of: 1. Thermal injuries of the skin with multiple subcutaneous and corial bubbles, intravascular heat coagulation, and edema in the transitional zone to the undamaged submucosa. 2. Coagulation necrosis of the tracheal and bronchial wall extending to alveolar ducts in central parts of the lung. Marked congestion and edema in the deeper layers of the mucosa. Hemorrhagic alveolar and interstitial edema of the lung. Striking congestion of the pleura parietalis saving up the recessus diaphragmaticus. 3. Acute nephron-nephrosis and periglomerular microangiopathy. Interstitial edema of the myocardium, degeneration of myofibrils. Acute vacuolar degeneration and swelling of hepatocytes. Phagocytosis of detritus by the RHS. 4. Swelling of endothelium and edema of the vascular walls. Intravascular fragments of erythrocytes, platelet aggregation and fibrin thrombi. The fatal cours in these cases is considered to be due to a fulminant shock syndrome.", "PMID": 442830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5739", "title": "[C6-polymorphism of the sixth component of complement: application to paternity cases (author's transl)].", "content": "The results of a study of the polymorphism of the sixth component of human complement by means of isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gels with subsequent C-dependent lysis in an agarose overlay containing C6 deficient rabbit serum are reported. The allele frequencies obtained (C6A = 0.613, C6B = 0.379, C6R = 0.008) are in good agreement with those previously published. The mode of inheritance in 47 families with 173 offspring as well as 26 mother-child combinations is in agreement with a formal genetical model: \"C6A, C6B, C6A1 and C6B1 at an autosomal locus\". The inclusion of this system into a blood group expertise in Germany can be recommended.", "contents": "[C6-polymorphism of the sixth component of complement: application to paternity cases (author's transl)]. The results of a study of the polymorphism of the sixth component of human complement by means of isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gels with subsequent C-dependent lysis in an agarose overlay containing C6 deficient rabbit serum are reported. The allele frequencies obtained (C6A = 0.613, C6B = 0.379, C6R = 0.008) are in good agreement with those previously published. The mode of inheritance in 47 families with 173 offspring as well as 26 mother-child combinations is in agreement with a formal genetical model: \"C6A, C6B, C6A1 and C6B1 at an autosomal locus\". The inclusion of this system into a blood group expertise in Germany can be recommended.", "PMID": 442831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5740", "title": "[Obligation to medical treatment as a possibility of medical and social supervision (author's transl)].", "content": "In lectures of forensic medicine and in jurisdiction the patient's decision to release his secret records of medical examinations and treatment is considered to be an intangible right. Actually this privilege is only existing for the rich patient who can afford it to resign economic help in daily life and in case of illness, disablement and of incapability of earning his living. The population of our social state is largely subjected to obligations to disclose, tolerate and cooperate. In Civil Right, Social Right and in Labour Law theoretically this cannot be enforced, but it is forced in fact by refusing social and insurance accomplishment. If a young person refuses medical tests, a veto of employment will result. An employee will not get a position in an industrial firm where a medical department had to be established according to the law, or in the public service, if he refuses medical tests. In the attempt to extend the social insurance system to the whole population and to extent medical service in industry to all employees within certain time, there is no longer space for avoiding the social pressure for medical good conduct. Wanting to live a civil life one has to obey those directions. The postulation of lecturers and of High Courts concerning the patients decision on medical examination and treatment has only explanatory value and does not consider medical insurance and labour aspects. Further legal restrictions of this fundamental rights exist in Criminal Law.", "contents": "[Obligation to medical treatment as a possibility of medical and social supervision (author's transl)]. In lectures of forensic medicine and in jurisdiction the patient's decision to release his secret records of medical examinations and treatment is considered to be an intangible right. Actually this privilege is only existing for the rich patient who can afford it to resign economic help in daily life and in case of illness, disablement and of incapability of earning his living. The population of our social state is largely subjected to obligations to disclose, tolerate and cooperate. In Civil Right, Social Right and in Labour Law theoretically this cannot be enforced, but it is forced in fact by refusing social and insurance accomplishment. If a young person refuses medical tests, a veto of employment will result. An employee will not get a position in an industrial firm where a medical department had to be established according to the law, or in the public service, if he refuses medical tests. In the attempt to extend the social insurance system to the whole population and to extent medical service in industry to all employees within certain time, there is no longer space for avoiding the social pressure for medical good conduct. Wanting to live a civil life one has to obey those directions. The postulation of lecturers and of High Courts concerning the patients decision on medical examination and treatment has only explanatory value and does not consider medical insurance and labour aspects. Further legal restrictions of this fundamental rights exist in Criminal Law.", "PMID": 442832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5741", "title": "[Precision of estimating the time of death by mathematical expression of rectal body cooling (author's transl)].", "content": "A representative material of experimental rectal cooling curves proves the basic validity of the model described by Marshall et al. for the mathematical expression of body cooling. For defined conditions of cooling as a relating standard the values of the exponents needed for the solution of the formula closely correlate with the weight of body to be raised to the -0.625 power. For applying in forensic cases a prescription easily to be used for the chosen relating standard of cooling is given for the computing of the time of death with permissible variation. From the first experiments of different conditions of body cooling to be met in forensic cases the possibilities of extending the range of application are derived.", "contents": "[Precision of estimating the time of death by mathematical expression of rectal body cooling (author's transl)]. A representative material of experimental rectal cooling curves proves the basic validity of the model described by Marshall et al. for the mathematical expression of body cooling. For defined conditions of cooling as a relating standard the values of the exponents needed for the solution of the formula closely correlate with the weight of body to be raised to the -0.625 power. For applying in forensic cases a prescription easily to be used for the chosen relating standard of cooling is given for the computing of the time of death with permissible variation. From the first experiments of different conditions of body cooling to be met in forensic cases the possibilities of extending the range of application are derived.", "PMID": 442834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5742", "title": "[Effects of alcohol in the embryo, fetus, and newborn infant (author's transl)].", "content": "At delivery the newborn infant of a drunken mother had a bloodalcohol concentration of about 2.0%. The elimination rate was calculated to be 0.08%/h. The infant exhibited obvious features of an embryofetal alcohol syndrome. Several cases from literature are cited with ethanol given for therapeutic purpose in obstetrics and bloodalcohol concentration exceeding to 1%-2%. This means that values up to 2% in newborn infants without any other pathological findings should not solely be accepted as cause of death in forensic cases.", "contents": "[Effects of alcohol in the embryo, fetus, and newborn infant (author's transl)]. At delivery the newborn infant of a drunken mother had a bloodalcohol concentration of about 2.0%. The elimination rate was calculated to be 0.08%/h. The infant exhibited obvious features of an embryofetal alcohol syndrome. Several cases from literature are cited with ethanol given for therapeutic purpose in obstetrics and bloodalcohol concentration exceeding to 1%-2%. This means that values up to 2% in newborn infants without any other pathological findings should not solely be accepted as cause of death in forensic cases.", "PMID": 442835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5743", "title": "[Behaviour of p-nitrophenol-glucuronide in hydrolysis with mineral acids (author's transl)].", "content": "The behaviour of p-nitrophenol and synthetic p-nitrophenol-glucuronide with mineral acids has been investigated. With sulfuric acid (33%) about 93% of the glucuronide derivative have been hydrolysed; the solution was heated in open vessel for 15 sec. With hydrochloric acid (6%) only about 65% of the conjugated p-nitrophenol have been converted to the free form. No losses were detected, when free p-nitrophenol was treated under the same conditions. Three other methods of hydrolysis have been applied.", "contents": "[Behaviour of p-nitrophenol-glucuronide in hydrolysis with mineral acids (author's transl)]. The behaviour of p-nitrophenol and synthetic p-nitrophenol-glucuronide with mineral acids has been investigated. With sulfuric acid (33%) about 93% of the glucuronide derivative have been hydrolysed; the solution was heated in open vessel for 15 sec. With hydrochloric acid (6%) only about 65% of the conjugated p-nitrophenol have been converted to the free form. No losses were detected, when free p-nitrophenol was treated under the same conditions. Three other methods of hydrolysis have been applied.", "PMID": 442836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5744", "title": "Embolism of heart tissue to the middle cerebral artery as a complication of heart surgery.", "content": "After suture closure of an intraarterial septal defect an atrioventricular block occurred in a 6 years old child. Therefore, the suture was removed and the defect closed by a Dacron patch. The sinus rhythm returned. After the operation convulsions occurred, the patient died after 16h which was considered to be due to cerebral air embolism. Autopsy confirmed a correct operation, but the right middle cerebral artery has been found to be completely occluded by heart muscle and pericardial fat tissue.", "contents": "Embolism of heart tissue to the middle cerebral artery as a complication of heart surgery. After suture closure of an intraarterial septal defect an atrioventricular block occurred in a 6 years old child. Therefore, the suture was removed and the defect closed by a Dacron patch. The sinus rhythm returned. After the operation convulsions occurred, the patient died after 16h which was considered to be due to cerebral air embolism. Autopsy confirmed a correct operation, but the right middle cerebral artery has been found to be completely occluded by heart muscle and pericardial fat tissue.", "PMID": 442838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5745", "title": "[The correlation analysis of amino acids: an aid in the diagnosis of chronic polyarthritis?].", "content": "This report is concerned with the correlation analysis of plasma amino acids as a possible tool to differentiate between healthy people and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Out of 450 theoretically possible correlations between plasma amino acids 95 statistically significant correlations were found in normals whereas 184 correlations were observed in RA. When the method reported here was used to find out whether an unknown sample originated from RA or normal, only one out of 40 RA-samples was incorrect. In controls 3 out of 14 failed. The possibility to use this method for common diagnostic problems is indicated.", "contents": "[The correlation analysis of amino acids: an aid in the diagnosis of chronic polyarthritis?]. This report is concerned with the correlation analysis of plasma amino acids as a possible tool to differentiate between healthy people and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Out of 450 theoretically possible correlations between plasma amino acids 95 statistically significant correlations were found in normals whereas 184 correlations were observed in RA. When the method reported here was used to find out whether an unknown sample originated from RA or normal, only one out of 40 RA-samples was incorrect. In controls 3 out of 14 failed. The possibility to use this method for common diagnostic problems is indicated.", "PMID": 442839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5746", "title": "[Elimination half-life and serum protein binding of the anti-rheumatism agent naproxen in kidney failure].", "content": "Serum protein binding of naproxen is considerably reduced in patients with renal insufficiency. The hypothetical plasma concentration at time zero and the half life are not significantly altered in uremic patients in comparison with healthy subjects when the drug is given orally. This suggests an increased pharmacodynamic action in uremic patients when the drug is given in the usual dosage, since the pharmacologically active unbound part must then be increased.", "contents": "[Elimination half-life and serum protein binding of the anti-rheumatism agent naproxen in kidney failure]. Serum protein binding of naproxen is considerably reduced in patients with renal insufficiency. The hypothetical plasma concentration at time zero and the half life are not significantly altered in uremic patients in comparison with healthy subjects when the drug is given orally. This suggests an increased pharmacodynamic action in uremic patients when the drug is given in the usual dosage, since the pharmacologically active unbound part must then be increased.", "PMID": 442840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5747", "title": "[The effect of yttrium-90 radio synovectomy on the intra-articular xenon-133 clearance in rheumatic joint diseases].", "content": "Nine inflamed knee joints out of eight patients were examined before and after intraarticular injection of yttrium-90 silicate colloid, in order to find out the effect of radiation synovectomy on the perfusion of the joints. These joints and the untreated contralateral knee joints were examined as to the clinical status and the fast component Tf of the xenon-133 clearance was determined as a means of the perfusion of the synovium. A linear correlation exists between the clinical status of the knee joint and the perfusion as determined by Tf measured three months before and after injection of yttrium-90. Also the joints without any radiation synovectomy showed this correlation. Three months after radiation synovectomy with yttrium-90 there was still no therapeutic effect apparent in the majority of the inflamed knee joints (seven out of nine). At this stage there still existed a hyperaemia. Therefore, it seems that on the whole three months are too short a period to judge the therapeutic effect.", "contents": "[The effect of yttrium-90 radio synovectomy on the intra-articular xenon-133 clearance in rheumatic joint diseases]. Nine inflamed knee joints out of eight patients were examined before and after intraarticular injection of yttrium-90 silicate colloid, in order to find out the effect of radiation synovectomy on the perfusion of the joints. These joints and the untreated contralateral knee joints were examined as to the clinical status and the fast component Tf of the xenon-133 clearance was determined as a means of the perfusion of the synovium. A linear correlation exists between the clinical status of the knee joint and the perfusion as determined by Tf measured three months before and after injection of yttrium-90. Also the joints without any radiation synovectomy showed this correlation. Three months after radiation synovectomy with yttrium-90 there was still no therapeutic effect apparent in the majority of the inflamed knee joints (seven out of nine). At this stage there still existed a hyperaemia. Therefore, it seems that on the whole three months are too short a period to judge the therapeutic effect.", "PMID": 442841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5748", "title": "[The problem of Bechterew's disease from the viewpoint of social security].", "content": "Ankylosing spondylitis has a medically well defined clinical picture. It was investigated how often the social security has to deal with it with regards to pension and treatment. The investigations were based on the statistics of the \"Verband Deutcher Rentenversicherungen\" and 2 groups of the \"Landerversicherungsanstalt Rheinprovinz\", and the number of individuals who in 1969/70 received a pension because of this disease (n = 157) or received a treatment payed by the social security. The pensioners were observed over a period of 7 years. 21.7% had died and 27.4% were receiving a pension because of disability. Most of the insured persons who had died had not had treatment. From the insured persons who had had treatment 7 years earlier (n = 971) 3% had died and only 16% had applied for a pension, almost always with success. It is pointed out that in case of medical diagnosis the discrepancy between objective finding and the patients' willingness to work must be considered together. There are considerable doubts with regards to drawing any epidemiological conclusions from these results.", "contents": "[The problem of Bechterew's disease from the viewpoint of social security]. Ankylosing spondylitis has a medically well defined clinical picture. It was investigated how often the social security has to deal with it with regards to pension and treatment. The investigations were based on the statistics of the \"Verband Deutcher Rentenversicherungen\" and 2 groups of the \"Landerversicherungsanstalt Rheinprovinz\", and the number of individuals who in 1969/70 received a pension because of this disease (n = 157) or received a treatment payed by the social security. The pensioners were observed over a period of 7 years. 21.7% had died and 27.4% were receiving a pension because of disability. Most of the insured persons who had died had not had treatment. From the insured persons who had had treatment 7 years earlier (n = 971) 3% had died and only 16% had applied for a pension, almost always with success. It is pointed out that in case of medical diagnosis the discrepancy between objective finding and the patients' willingness to work must be considered together. There are considerable doubts with regards to drawing any epidemiological conclusions from these results.", "PMID": 442842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5749", "title": "[The problem of joint sarcoidosis].", "content": "Joint symptoms in sarcoidosis are early manifestations of this systemic disease; patients with such symptoms, however, are seldom examined by a rheumatologist. The authors investigated 72 patients in whom a definite diagnosis of sarcoidosis had been made at the 1. University Clinic for Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases. Joint symptoms were found in 75% of the patients. In those with erythema nodosum they were found in 94%. Acute onset of the disease was found in more than 50% of the patients with erythema nodosum. Objective joint abnormalities were noted in 28% of the patients without erythema nodosum and in 67% of the patients with erythema nodosum. The talocrural joints were most frequently affected (32%). The laboratory investigations included the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, mucoprotein-tyrosin, blood calcium, uric acid, gamma globulin levels, latex fixation test, the Waaler-Rose hemagglutination test and alkaline phosphatase. The results of the laboratory tests and of the clinical findings were compared with those already published. Sarcoidosis is always a possible diagnosis in mono-and oligarticular arthritides of the talocrural joints in middle aged patients, particularly in women with erythema nodosum. The diagnosis is confirmed by enlargement of the hilar lymph nodes on CXR and by a negative tuberculin reaction.", "contents": "[The problem of joint sarcoidosis]. Joint symptoms in sarcoidosis are early manifestations of this systemic disease; patients with such symptoms, however, are seldom examined by a rheumatologist. The authors investigated 72 patients in whom a definite diagnosis of sarcoidosis had been made at the 1. University Clinic for Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases. Joint symptoms were found in 75% of the patients. In those with erythema nodosum they were found in 94%. Acute onset of the disease was found in more than 50% of the patients with erythema nodosum. Objective joint abnormalities were noted in 28% of the patients without erythema nodosum and in 67% of the patients with erythema nodosum. The talocrural joints were most frequently affected (32%). The laboratory investigations included the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, mucoprotein-tyrosin, blood calcium, uric acid, gamma globulin levels, latex fixation test, the Waaler-Rose hemagglutination test and alkaline phosphatase. The results of the laboratory tests and of the clinical findings were compared with those already published. Sarcoidosis is always a possible diagnosis in mono-and oligarticular arthritides of the talocrural joints in middle aged patients, particularly in women with erythema nodosum. The diagnosis is confirmed by enlargement of the hilar lymph nodes on CXR and by a negative tuberculin reaction.", "PMID": 442843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5750", "title": "[The biochemical mechanism of action of proquazone with special reference to the metabolism of connective tissue (biochemical studies for the determination of antiinflammatory effectiveness)].", "content": "A method is proposed to determine the specific radioactivity of proteokeratan sulfate and proteochondroitin sulfate after incorporation of 35SO4 and 3H-glucosamine. Proquazone inhibits the incorporation of 35SO4 in proteochondroitin sulfate and also in proteokeratan sulfate. Also the incorporation of 3H-glucosamine in proteokeratan sulfate and proteochondroitin sulfate is inhibited. A mechanism is proposed in which Proquazon inhibits the core protein synthesis of proteoglycans and the secondary biosynthesis of the glycosaminoglycan chains. In our opinion the action of an anti-inflammatory drug is based on the inhibition of the proteoglycan synthesis in the anabolic phase of the inflammation.", "contents": "[The biochemical mechanism of action of proquazone with special reference to the metabolism of connective tissue (biochemical studies for the determination of antiinflammatory effectiveness)]. A method is proposed to determine the specific radioactivity of proteokeratan sulfate and proteochondroitin sulfate after incorporation of 35SO4 and 3H-glucosamine. Proquazone inhibits the incorporation of 35SO4 in proteochondroitin sulfate and also in proteokeratan sulfate. Also the incorporation of 3H-glucosamine in proteokeratan sulfate and proteochondroitin sulfate is inhibited. A mechanism is proposed in which Proquazon inhibits the core protein synthesis of proteoglycans and the secondary biosynthesis of the glycosaminoglycan chains. In our opinion the action of an anti-inflammatory drug is based on the inhibition of the proteoglycan synthesis in the anabolic phase of the inflammation.", "PMID": 442844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5751", "title": "[Our experience with the nephrourological care of children].", "content": "1. A successful medical care for nephro-urologically ill children can only be guaranteed by efficient cooperation.--2. For more than 5 years there has been close collaboration in this field between the Department of Urology and the Department of Pediatrics in the Berlin-Friedrichshain Hospital.--3. In evaluating our experience some basic conditions are described which may serve as prerequisites for a successful cooperation.--4. Details of the content and organisation of cooperation between different clinical specialities vary according to local conditions.", "contents": "[Our experience with the nephrourological care of children]. 1. A successful medical care for nephro-urologically ill children can only be guaranteed by efficient cooperation.--2. For more than 5 years there has been close collaboration in this field between the Department of Urology and the Department of Pediatrics in the Berlin-Friedrichshain Hospital.--3. In evaluating our experience some basic conditions are described which may serve as prerequisites for a successful cooperation.--4. Details of the content and organisation of cooperation between different clinical specialities vary according to local conditions.", "PMID": 442852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5752", "title": "[Fractures of the forearm in children; operative treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "The knowledge of the special characteristics of fractures in childhood determine the method of treatment. Within 2 1/2 years 162 fractures of the forearm were treated, 23 of them by open reposition. The specialities of the different anatomical regions and the best way of treatment are discussed. Conservative and operative methods complement each other to obtain the best result while the risk for the little patient is reduced.", "contents": "[Fractures of the forearm in children; operative treatment (author's transl)]. The knowledge of the special characteristics of fractures in childhood determine the method of treatment. Within 2 1/2 years 162 fractures of the forearm were treated, 23 of them by open reposition. The specialities of the different anatomical regions and the best way of treatment are discussed. Conservative and operative methods complement each other to obtain the best result while the risk for the little patient is reduced.", "PMID": 442854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5753", "title": "[Bone scan of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in childhood (author's transl)].", "content": "A variety of 99m-Tc-phosphate compounds are sensitive and reliable for scintigraphic diagnosis of bone diseases. Therefore bone scan has become a safe method for evaluating patients with suspected acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. So we were able to perform early and adequate treatment without evidence of bony changes in the radiograph. Quantitative regional measurements with a relative uptake ratio was found to be a clinically useful parameter in the follow-up of osteomyelitis.", "contents": "[Bone scan of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in childhood (author's transl)]. A variety of 99m-Tc-phosphate compounds are sensitive and reliable for scintigraphic diagnosis of bone diseases. Therefore bone scan has become a safe method for evaluating patients with suspected acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. So we were able to perform early and adequate treatment without evidence of bony changes in the radiograph. Quantitative regional measurements with a relative uptake ratio was found to be a clinically useful parameter in the follow-up of osteomyelitis.", "PMID": 442855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5754", "title": "[Indication for limb replantation (author's transl)].", "content": "The indication for replantation of traumatised limbs cannot be forced into any scheme. Each single case has to be critically considered as individual problem with main reference to age, sex, general condition, profession and motivation of patient and personal competence and qualification. A factor of central importance is the amputated part itself. The following facts are of special interest: which extremity is afflicted, the level of amputation, the extent of local tissue destruction, the duration of ischemia and measures of preservation.", "contents": "[Indication for limb replantation (author's transl)]. The indication for replantation of traumatised limbs cannot be forced into any scheme. Each single case has to be critically considered as individual problem with main reference to age, sex, general condition, profession and motivation of patient and personal competence and qualification. A factor of central importance is the amputated part itself. The following facts are of special interest: which extremity is afflicted, the level of amputation, the extent of local tissue destruction, the duration of ischemia and measures of preservation.", "PMID": 442860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5755", "title": "[Alteration of serum enzyme activity after trauma and/or bacterial infection (author's transl)].", "content": "Our clinical and experimental study is based on the evaluation of the changes in enzymatic activity produced by surgical, traumatic and infectious agression. To this end we have evaluated the activity of the transaminase (GOT-GPT), malic dehydrogenase (MDH), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK). The details of our study are based on a total of 175 patients and 82 animals (dogs). Our results show that the highest rate of enzymatic activity was in proportion to the seriousness of the wound (lesion) produced. The clinical course-index developed from the activity of CPK and MDH allows us to evaluate and predetermine the course which our patients and our animals were to follow.", "contents": "[Alteration of serum enzyme activity after trauma and/or bacterial infection (author's transl)]. Our clinical and experimental study is based on the evaluation of the changes in enzymatic activity produced by surgical, traumatic and infectious agression. To this end we have evaluated the activity of the transaminase (GOT-GPT), malic dehydrogenase (MDH), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK). The details of our study are based on a total of 175 patients and 82 animals (dogs). Our results show that the highest rate of enzymatic activity was in proportion to the seriousness of the wound (lesion) produced. The clinical course-index developed from the activity of CPK and MDH allows us to evaluate and predetermine the course which our patients and our animals were to follow.", "PMID": 442861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5756", "title": "[Different indications for endoprotheses of the hip joint (ceramics (Al2O3) or internal shells?) (author's transl)].", "content": "The internal shell endoprothesis for the hip joint after Wagner has considerably limited the indications for the implantation of ceramic endoprotheses to patients under 60 years, because less bone substance has to be sacrificed. Furthermore there are indications for ceramic endoprotheses in cases of substance defects of the femoral head and neck, to some extent also in cases of dysplasia and protrusio acetabuli, and by loosening traditional total hip endoprotheses.", "contents": "[Different indications for endoprotheses of the hip joint (ceramics (Al2O3) or internal shells?) (author's transl)]. The internal shell endoprothesis for the hip joint after Wagner has considerably limited the indications for the implantation of ceramic endoprotheses to patients under 60 years, because less bone substance has to be sacrificed. Furthermore there are indications for ceramic endoprotheses in cases of substance defects of the femoral head and neck, to some extent also in cases of dysplasia and protrusio acetabuli, and by loosening traditional total hip endoprotheses.", "PMID": 442862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5757", "title": "[Therapy of fracture-dislocations of the humerus head].", "content": "Dislocated fractures of the head of humerus are rare and prognostically unfavourable. In elderly patients only functional therapy should be practiced. Surgery attempts to make operative reduction of the dislocation and careful fixation of the head of humerus. Endoprotheses may relieve the patient from pain, but cannot restore active mobility due to the lack of muscle insertion.", "contents": "[Therapy of fracture-dislocations of the humerus head]. Dislocated fractures of the head of humerus are rare and prognostically unfavourable. In elderly patients only functional therapy should be practiced. Surgery attempts to make operative reduction of the dislocation and careful fixation of the head of humerus. Endoprotheses may relieve the patient from pain, but cannot restore active mobility due to the lack of muscle insertion.", "PMID": 442863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5758", "title": "[Nutrition of pregnant women (author's transl)].", "content": "The increase of energy supply during pregnancy by about 300 kcal (= 1.3 MJ) applies only to the last three months. During lactation an additional energy supply of about 800 kcal (= 3,3 MJ) is required. At the beginning of pregnancy the individual body weight is recommended to be within the standard limits of optimal weight depending on body height, body structure and body composition. On this base the individual energy supply should be estimated. Data, basing on physiological values refer to the daily intake of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Furthermore, reliable recommendations are given as to the intake of calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, sodium, potassium and chloride for pregnant as well as lactating women. Approximate values are supplied for other essential minerals. The vitamin supply during gravidity and lactation is studied in detail, especially as to the vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, niacin, B6, folic acid, B12 and ascorbinic acid. Unsystematic substitutions of vitamins and minerals during gravidity are not indicated. Finally common basic principles for nutrition of pregnant women are laid down.", "contents": "[Nutrition of pregnant women (author's transl)]. The increase of energy supply during pregnancy by about 300 kcal (= 1.3 MJ) applies only to the last three months. During lactation an additional energy supply of about 800 kcal (= 3,3 MJ) is required. At the beginning of pregnancy the individual body weight is recommended to be within the standard limits of optimal weight depending on body height, body structure and body composition. On this base the individual energy supply should be estimated. Data, basing on physiological values refer to the daily intake of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Furthermore, reliable recommendations are given as to the intake of calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, sodium, potassium and chloride for pregnant as well as lactating women. Approximate values are supplied for other essential minerals. The vitamin supply during gravidity and lactation is studied in detail, especially as to the vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, niacin, B6, folic acid, B12 and ascorbinic acid. Unsystematic substitutions of vitamins and minerals during gravidity are not indicated. Finally common basic principles for nutrition of pregnant women are laid down.", "PMID": 442864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5759", "title": "[The clinical picture and pathogenesis of cervical pregnancy].", "content": "A report is given on a true cervical pregnancy connected with placenta percreta destruens in the sixth month of pregnancy in a twenty six-years old woman after her first pregnancy had been interrupted. A pathogenetic correlation between the induced abortion and the cervical pregnancy seems to be very probably. A damaged cervix probably offers the fertilized egg a more convenient oppertunity for the nidation. The prognosis of those dramatic ectopic pregnancies firstly depends on the early decision on carrying out hysterectomy in order to stop the dangerous bleeding.", "contents": "[The clinical picture and pathogenesis of cervical pregnancy]. A report is given on a true cervical pregnancy connected with placenta percreta destruens in the sixth month of pregnancy in a twenty six-years old woman after her first pregnancy had been interrupted. A pathogenetic correlation between the induced abortion and the cervical pregnancy seems to be very probably. A damaged cervix probably offers the fertilized egg a more convenient oppertunity for the nidation. The prognosis of those dramatic ectopic pregnancies firstly depends on the early decision on carrying out hysterectomy in order to stop the dangerous bleeding.", "PMID": 442865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5760", "title": "[The possible role and task of the round ligament in the mechanism of labor].", "content": "The following conclusions were drawn from thorough checks of anatomic, histological and clinical data as well as from palpation findings and their statistical evaluation regarding the function of ligamentum rotundum in pregnant uterus: 1. Changes of the round ligament were found to be correlated with the occurrence of various forms of labour insufficiency as well as of abnormal presentation and position. Such pathological conditions would be attributable to developmental anomalies of the round ligament, its instability, and cicatrisation following inflammation and surgery and resulting asymmetrical position of the uterus. --2. Clinical experiences obtained by the author is likely to suggest that pathological position of the round ligament would rule out spontanous labour.", "contents": "[The possible role and task of the round ligament in the mechanism of labor]. The following conclusions were drawn from thorough checks of anatomic, histological and clinical data as well as from palpation findings and their statistical evaluation regarding the function of ligamentum rotundum in pregnant uterus: 1. Changes of the round ligament were found to be correlated with the occurrence of various forms of labour insufficiency as well as of abnormal presentation and position. Such pathological conditions would be attributable to developmental anomalies of the round ligament, its instability, and cicatrisation following inflammation and surgery and resulting asymmetrical position of the uterus. --2. Clinical experiences obtained by the author is likely to suggest that pathological position of the round ligament would rule out spontanous labour.", "PMID": 442867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5761", "title": "[Labor and puerperium of the adolescent patient. A 15-year study from 1951 to 1975].", "content": "Among 32459 deliveries from 1961 to 1975 at the Gynaecology Department of the Martin Luther University in Halle there were 194 adolescent mothers under 18 years of age. This corresponds to a percentage of 0,6%.--These \"adolescents\" were compared with an equal group of primiparae between 22 and 24 years of age.--There were no essential differences in the delivery procedure between the adolescent and the control groups. Operations to speed up delivery had to be performed less often in the adolescent than in the control group. The quota of premature deliveries amongst the adolescents which stood a 16%, was higher than in the control group, where the quota amounted only 9%. In both groups no differences were found in the perinatal mortality rate.", "contents": "[Labor and puerperium of the adolescent patient. A 15-year study from 1951 to 1975]. Among 32459 deliveries from 1961 to 1975 at the Gynaecology Department of the Martin Luther University in Halle there were 194 adolescent mothers under 18 years of age. This corresponds to a percentage of 0,6%.--These \"adolescents\" were compared with an equal group of primiparae between 22 and 24 years of age.--There were no essential differences in the delivery procedure between the adolescent and the control groups. Operations to speed up delivery had to be performed less often in the adolescent than in the control group. The quota of premature deliveries amongst the adolescents which stood a 16%, was higher than in the control group, where the quota amounted only 9%. In both groups no differences were found in the perinatal mortality rate.", "PMID": 442868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5762", "title": "[The change of cervical state during pregnancy (author's transl)].", "content": "The causality between late abortion respectively premature birth and cervical insufficiency is proven. The prophylactic and therapeutic cerclage can be a contribution to a reduction of the frequency of premature births. A sound knowledge of the physiological state of the cervix uteri during pregnancy is necessary for a well-timed indication. This problem was confirmed by a study with 258 longitudinal examinations (134 nulliparae, 124 parae). There was no significant difference between the two groups of patients. The change of the cervix uteri is described in 45 cases of cervical insufficiency without labour. In most of the cases the disease developed from a physiological initial or intermediate stage within a short time. Short-term controls are necessary in case of divergency from the physiological state.", "contents": "[The change of cervical state during pregnancy (author's transl)]. The causality between late abortion respectively premature birth and cervical insufficiency is proven. The prophylactic and therapeutic cerclage can be a contribution to a reduction of the frequency of premature births. A sound knowledge of the physiological state of the cervix uteri during pregnancy is necessary for a well-timed indication. This problem was confirmed by a study with 258 longitudinal examinations (134 nulliparae, 124 parae). There was no significant difference between the two groups of patients. The change of the cervix uteri is described in 45 cases of cervical insufficiency without labour. In most of the cases the disease developed from a physiological initial or intermediate stage within a short time. Short-term controls are necessary in case of divergency from the physiological state.", "PMID": 442869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5763", "title": "[Experiences in diagnosis of placenta praevia by ultrasonic B scanning (author's transl)].", "content": "In a clinical experiental report the ultrasonic placentography is evaluated as a very reliable method in the diagnosis of pathological insertion and in the differentiation between the low lying placenta and the placenta praevia. In late pregnancy a control examination is required to find a favourable development as a result of the placental migration.", "contents": "[Experiences in diagnosis of placenta praevia by ultrasonic B scanning (author's transl)]. In a clinical experiental report the ultrasonic placentography is evaluated as a very reliable method in the diagnosis of pathological insertion and in the differentiation between the low lying placenta and the placenta praevia. In late pregnancy a control examination is required to find a favourable development as a result of the placental migration.", "PMID": 442870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5764", "title": "[The effect of preventive cesarean section in breech presentation on perinatal mortality].", "content": "This study is based upon 1229 infants delivered from breech presentations who were investigated for the influence of the prophylactic Caesarean section carried out with primiparae after their 36th week of pregnancy in 1972, on perinatal mortality. The periods under report, i. e., 1966 to 1971 and 1972 to 1975, were compared with one another. The incidence of Caesarean sections carried out in breech presentations increased from 11.6% to 52.2%. With a premature birth rate of 22.1% and 20.9%, respectively, the uncleaned perinatal mortality decreased from 109.2% to 96.5%, whereas the cleaned one dropped from 73.3% to 64.2%. As to mature infants delivered vaginally or by Caesarean section, there was no significant difference in death rates. The worse prognosis for breech presentation infants given birth by pluriparae could be confirmed. The high portion of underweight infants amounting to 78.0% and 82.9%, respectively, in the total number of perinatal deaths illustrates the main problem of the breech presentation births.", "contents": "[The effect of preventive cesarean section in breech presentation on perinatal mortality]. This study is based upon 1229 infants delivered from breech presentations who were investigated for the influence of the prophylactic Caesarean section carried out with primiparae after their 36th week of pregnancy in 1972, on perinatal mortality. The periods under report, i. e., 1966 to 1971 and 1972 to 1975, were compared with one another. The incidence of Caesarean sections carried out in breech presentations increased from 11.6% to 52.2%. With a premature birth rate of 22.1% and 20.9%, respectively, the uncleaned perinatal mortality decreased from 109.2% to 96.5%, whereas the cleaned one dropped from 73.3% to 64.2%. As to mature infants delivered vaginally or by Caesarean section, there was no significant difference in death rates. The worse prognosis for breech presentation infants given birth by pluriparae could be confirmed. The high portion of underweight infants amounting to 78.0% and 82.9%, respectively, in the total number of perinatal deaths illustrates the main problem of the breech presentation births.", "PMID": 442871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5765", "title": "[Screw electrode for fetal monitoring (author's transl)].", "content": "A screw-electrode for the cardiotocographic monitoring is described. Starting from the demands of an efficient screw-electrode the electric and mechanical attributes are explained. The clinical results demonstrate the efficiency of the new electrode. It takes of a feto-fetal ECG.", "contents": "[Screw electrode for fetal monitoring (author's transl)]. A screw-electrode for the cardiotocographic monitoring is described. Starting from the demands of an efficient screw-electrode the electric and mechanical attributes are explained. The clinical results demonstrate the efficiency of the new electrode. It takes of a feto-fetal ECG.", "PMID": 442872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5766", "title": "[Ptyalismus gravidarum].", "content": "Report is given about a case of Ptyalismus gravidarum. The data found in literature about the theories of etiology and the possibilities of therapy are discussed. The use of psycho-therapy is advised.", "contents": "[Ptyalismus gravidarum]. Report is given about a case of Ptyalismus gravidarum. The data found in literature about the theories of etiology and the possibilities of therapy are discussed. The use of psycho-therapy is advised.", "PMID": 442873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5767", "title": "[Report on a computer based evaluation of 1,800 cases of abortion].", "content": "1800 cases with interruption of pregnancy are subjected to a computer analysis by means of a data-adjusted medical record for patients with interruption of pregnancy, which is in use in our hospital since 1975. The age distribution reveals a frequency peak between the ages of 35 and 38 years. The striving for a 2-children family is evident. Operating complications occurred in 1.1 per cent of the cases only, 0.4 per cent were perforationes and 0.7 per cent were lacerations of the cervix. This is due to the general application of the vacuum aspiration and the preferred performance of the operations up to the 10th gestational week. The great significance of the application of effective contraceptives is emphasized, since 48 per cent of the women had renounced contraceptives without any reason. Over 40 per cent of the women had employed contraceptives previously, but later on they had abandoned such means, 20 per cent of these women without a special cause. The physician's responsibility for the education of the women is stressed.", "contents": "[Report on a computer based evaluation of 1,800 cases of abortion]. 1800 cases with interruption of pregnancy are subjected to a computer analysis by means of a data-adjusted medical record for patients with interruption of pregnancy, which is in use in our hospital since 1975. The age distribution reveals a frequency peak between the ages of 35 and 38 years. The striving for a 2-children family is evident. Operating complications occurred in 1.1 per cent of the cases only, 0.4 per cent were perforationes and 0.7 per cent were lacerations of the cervix. This is due to the general application of the vacuum aspiration and the preferred performance of the operations up to the 10th gestational week. The great significance of the application of effective contraceptives is emphasized, since 48 per cent of the women had renounced contraceptives without any reason. Over 40 per cent of the women had employed contraceptives previously, but later on they had abandoned such means, 20 per cent of these women without a special cause. The physician's responsibility for the education of the women is stressed.", "PMID": 442874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5768", "title": "[Problems of sigmoid diverticulitis in the female and its differential diagnostic delineation from the left-sided adnexal tumor].", "content": "In the last three years 42 patients with complicated diverticulitis were treated surgically. There were 18 women in all. Nine of these women were believed to have gynecologic disease because of the palbable pelvic tumor and were hospitalized at the Gynecologic Department. 2 patients underwent an exploratory operation by gynecologic surgeons based upon preoperative diagnosis of ovarian mass. The diagnosis at operation in all two cases was perforated sigmoid diverticulitis. Another three of the nine patients had initally emergency exploratory operations by gynecologic surgeons based upon diagnosis of pelvic mass. Also here the diagnosis at operations were perforated sigmoid diverticulitis and they underwent emergency primary resection of the perforated sigmoid by surgeons. In all the cases of complicated diverticulitis the surgical proceature was the primary resection; the anterior resection was combined with a temporare transverse colostomy.--Diverticulitis is an important differential diagnosis of a left pelvic tumor in women with or without clinical and laboratory indications of infections and history of diverticulitis.", "contents": "[Problems of sigmoid diverticulitis in the female and its differential diagnostic delineation from the left-sided adnexal tumor]. In the last three years 42 patients with complicated diverticulitis were treated surgically. There were 18 women in all. Nine of these women were believed to have gynecologic disease because of the palbable pelvic tumor and were hospitalized at the Gynecologic Department. 2 patients underwent an exploratory operation by gynecologic surgeons based upon preoperative diagnosis of ovarian mass. The diagnosis at operation in all two cases was perforated sigmoid diverticulitis. Another three of the nine patients had initally emergency exploratory operations by gynecologic surgeons based upon diagnosis of pelvic mass. Also here the diagnosis at operations were perforated sigmoid diverticulitis and they underwent emergency primary resection of the perforated sigmoid by surgeons. In all the cases of complicated diverticulitis the surgical proceature was the primary resection; the anterior resection was combined with a temporare transverse colostomy.--Diverticulitis is an important differential diagnosis of a left pelvic tumor in women with or without clinical and laboratory indications of infections and history of diverticulitis.", "PMID": 442875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5769", "title": "Further progress with oncolysis due to apathogenic clostridia.", "content": "Cl. onc. apathogenic for human beings and small animals is not able to cure tumor-bearing hosts. Combined treatments with local X-irradiation and local HFH have decreased the death rate of Harding-Passey-Melanoma-bearing mice. A cure rate of ca. 20% has resulted for the first time in such experiments. The survival time has increased significantly, however relapses occured on the sites of transplantation which finally killed the animals. Therefore it was tried to repeat the threefold-combined treatment. The animals with a relapse tolerated such a second and third series well. After the second series of treatment some animals became free of relapse and some after the third series. That means, if repeating treatment with local HFH, local X-irradiation, and i.v. spore-application of Cl. onc., it is possible to cure the Harding-Passey-Melanoma of the mouse at a high percentage.", "contents": "Further progress with oncolysis due to apathogenic clostridia. Cl. onc. apathogenic for human beings and small animals is not able to cure tumor-bearing hosts. Combined treatments with local X-irradiation and local HFH have decreased the death rate of Harding-Passey-Melanoma-bearing mice. A cure rate of ca. 20% has resulted for the first time in such experiments. The survival time has increased significantly, however relapses occured on the sites of transplantation which finally killed the animals. Therefore it was tried to repeat the threefold-combined treatment. The animals with a relapse tolerated such a second and third series well. After the second series of treatment some animals became free of relapse and some after the third series. That means, if repeating treatment with local HFH, local X-irradiation, and i.v. spore-application of Cl. onc., it is possible to cure the Harding-Passey-Melanoma of the mouse at a high percentage.", "PMID": 442877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5770", "title": "[Enzymatic mechanisms of the oncolysis by Clostridium oncolyticum M 55 ATCC 13.732 (author's transl)].", "content": "After a short review of older attempts at explanation of the oncolysis by Cl. oncolyticum M 55 a new theory will be presented. In connection with new results of enzymological investigations the metabolic correlations between the tumor cell and the vegetative clostridial cell and the consequences of the results for an oncolytic therapy will be demonstrated.", "contents": "[Enzymatic mechanisms of the oncolysis by Clostridium oncolyticum M 55 ATCC 13.732 (author's transl)]. After a short review of older attempts at explanation of the oncolysis by Cl. oncolyticum M 55 a new theory will be presented. In connection with new results of enzymological investigations the metabolic correlations between the tumor cell and the vegetative clostridial cell and the consequences of the results for an oncolytic therapy will be demonstrated.", "PMID": 442878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5771", "title": "[Salmonella freiburg: a new salmonella-serotype (3,10:1,Z13:1,2) (author's transl)].", "content": "A new Salmonella serotype (S. 3,10:1,Z13:1,2) was isolated from a stool specimen of a 13 year old immigrant from Narpan, USSR. The strain was finally identified as a new Salmonella, Subgenus I, on August 10, 1975 by Prof. Le Minor, International Salmonella Centre, Paris. The organism was introduced into the Kauffmann-White-Scheme, Supplement XX, as S. freiburg.", "contents": "[Salmonella freiburg: a new salmonella-serotype (3,10:1,Z13:1,2) (author's transl)]. A new Salmonella serotype (S. 3,10:1,Z13:1,2) was isolated from a stool specimen of a 13 year old immigrant from Narpan, USSR. The strain was finally identified as a new Salmonella, Subgenus I, on August 10, 1975 by Prof. Le Minor, International Salmonella Centre, Paris. The organism was introduced into the Kauffmann-White-Scheme, Supplement XX, as S. freiburg.", "PMID": 442879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5772", "title": "The problem of interaction of shigella with epithelial cells.", "content": "A review and analysis of data on the investigation of factors concerning the initial events of interaction of Shigella with epithelial cells: attachment of penetration are presented. In the experiments with 3H-labeled bacteria it was shown that although common pili confer adhesive properties to bacteria but the penetration of Shigella into the cell is not increased. It was stated that LPS of Shigella O antigen plays an important role not only in interaction with cellular and humoral factors of the macroorganism defence but also in an initial stage of attachment of bacteria to the membrane of epithelial cells. However LPS of O antigen does not provide the penetration of the agent into the cell. In filtrates of virulent strains of Shigella flexneri, in contrast to those of smooth mutants and hybrids, lacking penetration ability, a biologically active factor (BAF) of protein or lipoprotein nature which reduced the LD50 of virulent and avirulent bacteria in infection of chicken embryos on chorioallantoic membrane, decreases ID50 and complicates the course of the infectious process in conjunctival infection of guinea pigs with virulent Shigella strain was revealed. S. flexneri transductant with a restored ability to induce kerato-conjunctivitis restored an ability to produce the BAF as well. Comparison of these data with the findings of other investigators was carried out. Perspectives of interpretation of penetration mechanism of Shigella into epithelial cells are discussed.", "contents": "The problem of interaction of shigella with epithelial cells. A review and analysis of data on the investigation of factors concerning the initial events of interaction of Shigella with epithelial cells: attachment of penetration are presented. In the experiments with 3H-labeled bacteria it was shown that although common pili confer adhesive properties to bacteria but the penetration of Shigella into the cell is not increased. It was stated that LPS of Shigella O antigen plays an important role not only in interaction with cellular and humoral factors of the macroorganism defence but also in an initial stage of attachment of bacteria to the membrane of epithelial cells. However LPS of O antigen does not provide the penetration of the agent into the cell. In filtrates of virulent strains of Shigella flexneri, in contrast to those of smooth mutants and hybrids, lacking penetration ability, a biologically active factor (BAF) of protein or lipoprotein nature which reduced the LD50 of virulent and avirulent bacteria in infection of chicken embryos on chorioallantoic membrane, decreases ID50 and complicates the course of the infectious process in conjunctival infection of guinea pigs with virulent Shigella strain was revealed. S. flexneri transductant with a restored ability to induce kerato-conjunctivitis restored an ability to produce the BAF as well. Comparison of these data with the findings of other investigators was carried out. Perspectives of interpretation of penetration mechanism of Shigella into epithelial cells are discussed.", "PMID": 442880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5773", "title": "[Humoral factors in the regulation of the natural resistance of the body in toxic lesion of the liver].", "content": "The dynamics of natural resistance factors (complement, lysozyme, the bactericidal potency of blood serum) were found to be similar in rabbits with the toxic lesions of the liver resulting from the administration of carbon tetrachloride and in intact homologous rescipients receiving the serum of poisoned animals. Simultaneously a decrease in the complement titre and an increase in lysozyme activity and in the bactericidal potency of blood serum were observed. The effect thus revealed could be suppressed by treating the serum with contrical, a polyvalent proteinase inhibitor.", "contents": "[Humoral factors in the regulation of the natural resistance of the body in toxic lesion of the liver]. The dynamics of natural resistance factors (complement, lysozyme, the bactericidal potency of blood serum) were found to be similar in rabbits with the toxic lesions of the liver resulting from the administration of carbon tetrachloride and in intact homologous rescipients receiving the serum of poisoned animals. Simultaneously a decrease in the complement titre and an increase in lysozyme activity and in the bactericidal potency of blood serum were observed. The effect thus revealed could be suppressed by treating the serum with contrical, a polyvalent proteinase inhibitor.", "PMID": 442885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5774", "title": "[Stability of the immunogenic properties of plague vaccine strain EV, Research Institute of Epidemiology and Hygiene line, during long-term storage].", "content": "The experiments in guinea pigs showed that the immunogenic properties of plague vaccine strain EV, line NIIEG, freeze-dried in 1947 and stored under vacuum without animalization, remained unchanged for 30 years. The subcultures prepared from this train showed, after three passages in guinea pigs, good immunogenic properties which preserved for 6--10 years (the term of observation). After 30-years storage the stock culture of strain EV, line NIIEG, can be used for the preparation of NIIS live plague vaccine.", "contents": "[Stability of the immunogenic properties of plague vaccine strain EV, Research Institute of Epidemiology and Hygiene line, during long-term storage]. The experiments in guinea pigs showed that the immunogenic properties of plague vaccine strain EV, line NIIEG, freeze-dried in 1947 and stored under vacuum without animalization, remained unchanged for 30 years. The subcultures prepared from this train showed, after three passages in guinea pigs, good immunogenic properties which preserved for 6--10 years (the term of observation). After 30-years storage the stock culture of strain EV, line NIIEG, can be used for the preparation of NIIS live plague vaccine.", "PMID": 442886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5775", "title": "[Action of cyclophosphane on the formation of hemagglutinins and of nonspecific immunoglobulins in a microbe-free state].", "content": "A total of 39 germ-free and 28 conventional germ-free Fisher rats were used to study cyclophosphamide-induced specific (hemagglutinins) and nonspecific (IgG2) immunosuppression. Most pronounced effect of the drug was observed in germ-free animals. 180 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide completely suppressed hemagglutinin formation for at least 8 weeks.", "contents": "[Action of cyclophosphane on the formation of hemagglutinins and of nonspecific immunoglobulins in a microbe-free state]. A total of 39 germ-free and 28 conventional germ-free Fisher rats were used to study cyclophosphamide-induced specific (hemagglutinins) and nonspecific (IgG2) immunosuppression. Most pronounced effect of the drug was observed in germ-free animals. 180 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide completely suppressed hemagglutinin formation for at least 8 weeks.", "PMID": 442887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5776", "title": "[Detection of the capsule of staphylococci isolated in urological diseases].", "content": "In studying the cultures isolated from urological patients the seed material was found to yield a high proportion (40%) of coagulase-negative, white staphylococci. Capsule-forming organisms constituted 58.8% of the isolated Staphylococcus aureus. As the presence of capsules is indicative of pathogenicity of staphylococci, in urological diseases the presence of capsulary strains in urine should be taken into consideration.", "contents": "[Detection of the capsule of staphylococci isolated in urological diseases]. In studying the cultures isolated from urological patients the seed material was found to yield a high proportion (40%) of coagulase-negative, white staphylococci. Capsule-forming organisms constituted 58.8% of the isolated Staphylococcus aureus. As the presence of capsules is indicative of pathogenicity of staphylococci, in urological diseases the presence of capsulary strains in urine should be taken into consideration.", "PMID": 442888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5777", "title": "[Membrane protein spectra of staphylococci from a comparative physiological aspect].", "content": "Membrane protein spectra, obtained by electrophoresis in the system polyacrylamide gel--sodium dodecysolfate, were studied in 14 staphylococcal strains with different properties. The proteinograms of membranes were shown to be useful as an additional criterion in the identification of staphylococci. Fractions and their combination characteristic of all the strains and their separate groups were revealed in the protein spectra of staphylococcal membranes.", "contents": "[Membrane protein spectra of staphylococci from a comparative physiological aspect]. Membrane protein spectra, obtained by electrophoresis in the system polyacrylamide gel--sodium dodecysolfate, were studied in 14 staphylococcal strains with different properties. The proteinograms of membranes were shown to be useful as an additional criterion in the identification of staphylococci. Fractions and their combination characteristic of all the strains and their separate groups were revealed in the protein spectra of staphylococcal membranes.", "PMID": 442889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5778", "title": "[Heteromorphism of corynebacteria. II. Microcells].", "content": "The formation of microcells is one of the manifestations of the heteromorphism of Corynebacterium. It can occur in 6 ways, of these, 3 are possible during septation (chaotic septation of gigantic macroforms, irregular multiseptation of elongated organisms, and microcells appearing as inserts at the sites of the septum formation), and 3 in undividing cells (microcells at the edge segments of the protoplast, exogemmation, endogemmation). The analysis of the ultrastructure of microcells indicated the possibility of their independent existence for a certain period of time.", "contents": "[Heteromorphism of corynebacteria. II. Microcells]. The formation of microcells is one of the manifestations of the heteromorphism of Corynebacterium. It can occur in 6 ways, of these, 3 are possible during septation (chaotic septation of gigantic macroforms, irregular multiseptation of elongated organisms, and microcells appearing as inserts at the sites of the septum formation), and 3 in undividing cells (microcells at the edge segments of the protoplast, exogemmation, endogemmation). The analysis of the ultrastructure of microcells indicated the possibility of their independent existence for a certain period of time.", "PMID": 442890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5779", "title": "[Immunological mechanisms of specific hyposensitization in allergic diseases of an infectious nature.. I. Hyposensitization with autovaccine].", "content": "Immunological processes in 17 patients with infectious allergic bronchial asthma accompanied by chronic respiratory tract infection were studied in dynamics resulting from the hyposensitization of the patients with autovaccine. Specific sensitization was shown to produce stable clinical remission. The therapeutic effect of this method was ensured by a simultaneous hange in non-specific cellular and humoral immunity. A stable therapeutic effect was observed gainst the background of activated immunological processes and weakened sensitization.", "contents": "[Immunological mechanisms of specific hyposensitization in allergic diseases of an infectious nature.. I. Hyposensitization with autovaccine]. Immunological processes in 17 patients with infectious allergic bronchial asthma accompanied by chronic respiratory tract infection were studied in dynamics resulting from the hyposensitization of the patients with autovaccine. Specific sensitization was shown to produce stable clinical remission. The therapeutic effect of this method was ensured by a simultaneous hange in non-specific cellular and humoral immunity. A stable therapeutic effect was observed gainst the background of activated immunological processes and weakened sensitization.", "PMID": 442891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5780", "title": "[Reliability of the disinfecting action of pulse electrical discharges in water treatment].", "content": "The irreversibility of the damaging action of pulse electric discharges (PED) on microorganisms in the process of the disinfection of water was studied. The experiments with standard E. coli culture showed that bacterial cells remaining alive after being subjected to the action of PED eventually died the sooner, the higher the temperature of the medium was. In any of the \"blind passages\" made within 7 days no growth of the test microorganism was observed. The use of enriched fluid media and 10-day incubation did not ensure the preservation of proliferation ability of the cells after the action of PED with the parameters used in the experiment.", "contents": "[Reliability of the disinfecting action of pulse electrical discharges in water treatment]. The irreversibility of the damaging action of pulse electric discharges (PED) on microorganisms in the process of the disinfection of water was studied. The experiments with standard E. coli culture showed that bacterial cells remaining alive after being subjected to the action of PED eventually died the sooner, the higher the temperature of the medium was. In any of the \"blind passages\" made within 7 days no growth of the test microorganism was observed. The use of enriched fluid media and 10-day incubation did not ensure the preservation of proliferation ability of the cells after the action of PED with the parameters used in the experiment.", "PMID": 442892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5781", "title": "[Syndrome of constant muscle fiber activity (Isaacs syndrome)].", "content": "Two cases with expressed signs of a permanent muscular tension in the extremities with fasciculation (the Isaacs syndrome) and difficulties in self-service are described. In both cases the diagnosis was verified by typical EEG changes and a good effect from the use of a diphenylhydantoin or finlepsin.", "contents": "[Syndrome of constant muscle fiber activity (Isaacs syndrome)]. Two cases with expressed signs of a permanent muscular tension in the extremities with fasciculation (the Isaacs syndrome) and difficulties in self-service are described. In both cases the diagnosis was verified by typical EEG changes and a good effect from the use of a diphenylhydantoin or finlepsin.", "PMID": 442893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5782", "title": "[Status of connective tissue in progressive muscular dystrophies].", "content": "60 patients with different forms of neuromuscular disorders were examined. Morphological studies of skeletal muscles and of diurnal excretion with urine of acetic GAG were carried out. It was established that the changes in the stromal connective tissue in the progressive muscular dystrophia appear in the early stages of the disease and affect both the essential substance and the fibrillar structures. The excretion with the urine of acetic GAG was increased. In denervative amyotrophy the changes became apparent against the background of marked clinical symptoms. The data obtained may be important for a differential diagnosis of progressive muscular dystrophy and denervative amyotrophy, and for the development of differential drug therapy.", "contents": "[Status of connective tissue in progressive muscular dystrophies]. 60 patients with different forms of neuromuscular disorders were examined. Morphological studies of skeletal muscles and of diurnal excretion with urine of acetic GAG were carried out. It was established that the changes in the stromal connective tissue in the progressive muscular dystrophia appear in the early stages of the disease and affect both the essential substance and the fibrillar structures. The excretion with the urine of acetic GAG was increased. In denervative amyotrophy the changes became apparent against the background of marked clinical symptoms. The data obtained may be important for a differential diagnosis of progressive muscular dystrophy and denervative amyotrophy, and for the development of differential drug therapy.", "PMID": 442894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5783", "title": "[Variability of hereditary spinal amyotrophies].", "content": "Under conditions of the former isolate in 13 patients from 8 families hereditary spinal amyotrophy of adults was revealed, which is not in compliance to any other forms of this disease. The disease manifests in several generations of families at the age of 30--40 years in the form of anterior horn lesion to the cervical level in combination with the moderate \"bulbar\" and pyramidal disorders. The development of the disease is slow. The main type of inneritance is dominant. Histological study of a lethal case demonstrated the anterior horn lesion and the secondary character of amyotrophy.", "contents": "[Variability of hereditary spinal amyotrophies]. Under conditions of the former isolate in 13 patients from 8 families hereditary spinal amyotrophy of adults was revealed, which is not in compliance to any other forms of this disease. The disease manifests in several generations of families at the age of 30--40 years in the form of anterior horn lesion to the cervical level in combination with the moderate \"bulbar\" and pyramidal disorders. The development of the disease is slow. The main type of inneritance is dominant. Histological study of a lethal case demonstrated the anterior horn lesion and the secondary character of amyotrophy.", "PMID": 442895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5784", "title": "[Neuromuscular disorders in hypothyroidism].", "content": "The authors conducted a clinico-electrophysiological study of 177 patients with hypothyrosis of different etiology in order to investigate the nature of neuromuscular disturbances in this disease. Neuromuscular disturbances in these patients are shown in the form of hypothyroid myopathy, hypothyroid pseudomyopathy, combinations of hypothyroid myopathy with pseudomyopathy and hypothyroid pathological muscular fatiguability. The mechanism of origin of this pathology is considered and the efficiency of complex treatment of neuromuscular disturbances in hypothyrosis is demonstrated.", "contents": "[Neuromuscular disorders in hypothyroidism]. The authors conducted a clinico-electrophysiological study of 177 patients with hypothyrosis of different etiology in order to investigate the nature of neuromuscular disturbances in this disease. Neuromuscular disturbances in these patients are shown in the form of hypothyroid myopathy, hypothyroid pseudomyopathy, combinations of hypothyroid myopathy with pseudomyopathy and hypothyroid pathological muscular fatiguability. The mechanism of origin of this pathology is considered and the efficiency of complex treatment of neuromuscular disturbances in hypothyrosis is demonstrated.", "PMID": 442896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5785", "title": "[Clinical variants of essential tremor].", "content": "On the basis of a study of 100 patients with essential tremor from 54 families, 3 clinical variants of this disease were distinguished: classical monosymptomatic form characterized by tremor; a form where tremor is combined with other little marked extrapyramidal symptoms; a form where tremor is combined with little marked symptoms of cerebellar structure insufficiency.", "contents": "[Clinical variants of essential tremor]. On the basis of a study of 100 patients with essential tremor from 54 families, 3 clinical variants of this disease were distinguished: classical monosymptomatic form characterized by tremor; a form where tremor is combined with other little marked extrapyramidal symptoms; a form where tremor is combined with little marked symptoms of cerebellar structure insufficiency.", "PMID": 442897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5786", "title": "[Spinal mechanisms of movement disorders in torsion dystonia (electromyographic analysis)].", "content": "A clinico-electromyographical study of 25 patients with torsion dystonia was carried out. The author studied evoked responses of the muscles of the lower extremities (H-reflex, M-response, F-wave) during the electric stimulation of the tibial nerve and the general electric muscular activity both at rest and in hyperkinesia. Two types of changes in the electromyographic data were revealed in the examined patients. It is suggested that there are certain differences in the neurophysiological mechanisms of motor disturbances in torsion dystonia. The role of the spinal apparatus in the development of dystonic hyperkinesia is considered.", "contents": "[Spinal mechanisms of movement disorders in torsion dystonia (electromyographic analysis)]. A clinico-electromyographical study of 25 patients with torsion dystonia was carried out. The author studied evoked responses of the muscles of the lower extremities (H-reflex, M-response, F-wave) during the electric stimulation of the tibial nerve and the general electric muscular activity both at rest and in hyperkinesia. Two types of changes in the electromyographic data were revealed in the examined patients. It is suggested that there are certain differences in the neurophysiological mechanisms of motor disturbances in torsion dystonia. The role of the spinal apparatus in the development of dystonic hyperkinesia is considered.", "PMID": 442898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5787", "title": "[Attack-like course of schizophrenia in light of remote follow-up].", "content": "On the basis of a follow-up study of 146 schizophrenic patients preserving the development in the form of outlined attacks up to senility it was established that the recurrent development occurs only in 7.8% of the cases (more rarely than in the general population of schizophrenic patients). In some cases the transition from a recurrent development to an attack-like progressive form was observed. In most patients with recurrent schizophrenia in the late age the attacks cease. The analysis of the patients with attack-like progressive schizophrenia showed that the increase of defect occurred only in young and middle age and despite the repeated recurrence in involutional age and senility, the development of the disease on the whole remains non-progressive.", "contents": "[Attack-like course of schizophrenia in light of remote follow-up]. On the basis of a follow-up study of 146 schizophrenic patients preserving the development in the form of outlined attacks up to senility it was established that the recurrent development occurs only in 7.8% of the cases (more rarely than in the general population of schizophrenic patients). In some cases the transition from a recurrent development to an attack-like progressive form was observed. In most patients with recurrent schizophrenia in the late age the attacks cease. The analysis of the patients with attack-like progressive schizophrenia showed that the increase of defect occurred only in young and middle age and despite the repeated recurrence in involutional age and senility, the development of the disease on the whole remains non-progressive.", "PMID": 442899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5788", "title": "[Nosologic position of confabulatory-paraphrenic psychoses of old age].", "content": "Three groups of elderly patients were studied. The state of these patients was characterized by confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion which developed for the first in senility. The nozological character of the first two groups of patients did not cause any doubt about their close connection with senile dementia. The third group of patients varied only by the presence of the confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion without any signs of endogenous or senile-atrophic processes. The comparative study of the psychopathological traits of confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion in all patients showed that in all three groups there was a similarity of this symptomatology. Besides, the type of personality traits and hereditary loading in all three groups of patients appeared to be similar. It is suggested that nosologically studied group of psychoses in old age developing only with confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion without endogenous or organic dementia first appearing in seniscence should be referred to be senile dementia.", "contents": "[Nosologic position of confabulatory-paraphrenic psychoses of old age]. Three groups of elderly patients were studied. The state of these patients was characterized by confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion which developed for the first in senility. The nozological character of the first two groups of patients did not cause any doubt about their close connection with senile dementia. The third group of patients varied only by the presence of the confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion without any signs of endogenous or senile-atrophic processes. The comparative study of the psychopathological traits of confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion in all patients showed that in all three groups there was a similarity of this symptomatology. Besides, the type of personality traits and hereditary loading in all three groups of patients appeared to be similar. It is suggested that nosologically studied group of psychoses in old age developing only with confabulatory-paraphrenic delusion without endogenous or organic dementia first appearing in seniscence should be referred to be senile dementia.", "PMID": 442900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5789", "title": "[Catecholamine metabolism in various compensatory manifestations of epilepsy patients].", "content": "The authors studied the catecholamine metabolism with an additional use of the function loadings by insulin and adrenalin in 77 epileptic patients who were ill for a long time and had marked disturbances in mental activity. The study was conducted in dynamics. The authors revealed a considerable activation of catecholamine metabolism in patients with acute psychotic states during dysphoria and in periods close to attacks against the background of typical, for the studied group, depression of the sympathoadrenalin system. The differences in the nature of reaction to the functional loadings, changing in various stages of the disease development and reflecting, to some extent, the compensatory possibilities of organism were registered.", "contents": "[Catecholamine metabolism in various compensatory manifestations of epilepsy patients]. The authors studied the catecholamine metabolism with an additional use of the function loadings by insulin and adrenalin in 77 epileptic patients who were ill for a long time and had marked disturbances in mental activity. The study was conducted in dynamics. The authors revealed a considerable activation of catecholamine metabolism in patients with acute psychotic states during dysphoria and in periods close to attacks against the background of typical, for the studied group, depression of the sympathoadrenalin system. The differences in the nature of reaction to the functional loadings, changing in various stages of the disease development and reflecting, to some extent, the compensatory possibilities of organism were registered.", "PMID": 442901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5790", "title": "[Neutropenia in epilepsy patients].", "content": "Blood neutrophils were studied in epileptic patients. Differentiation of neutropenia induced by epilepsy from neutropenia due to anticonvulsants enabled one to reveal that incidence of the latter amounts to 6%. Differentiation of drug-induced neutropenia (54 observations) depending on the pathogenetic mechanism or origin (tonic and allergic), features of the blood picture and the nature of the disease course (stable, recurrent, transitory) is of special importance for diagnosis and choice of therapeutic tactics.", "contents": "[Neutropenia in epilepsy patients]. Blood neutrophils were studied in epileptic patients. Differentiation of neutropenia induced by epilepsy from neutropenia due to anticonvulsants enabled one to reveal that incidence of the latter amounts to 6%. Differentiation of drug-induced neutropenia (54 observations) depending on the pathogenetic mechanism or origin (tonic and allergic), features of the blood picture and the nature of the disease course (stable, recurrent, transitory) is of special importance for diagnosis and choice of therapeutic tactics.", "PMID": 442902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5791", "title": "[Epidemiologic-rehabilitation aspect of borderline neuropsychiatric disorders in students].", "content": "The prevalence, treatment and rehabilitation of students with border-line neuropsychic disturbances were studied in higher educational establishments. The intensive indices of the morbidity and incidence of border-line states amounted to 6.9 and 19.3 per 1000 students. Among the students of humanitarian faculties the number of the patients with border-line states was 6 times as great as compared to technical students and 3 times as great as compared to the students of biomedical and physico-mathematical departments. The authors recommend that the main attention in the rehabilitation of students with border-line neuropsychic disturbances should be attached to the outpatient programmes as they are the most effective for this group of patients. It is also recommended to organize specialized rooms of mental hygiene for students.", "contents": "[Epidemiologic-rehabilitation aspect of borderline neuropsychiatric disorders in students]. The prevalence, treatment and rehabilitation of students with border-line neuropsychic disturbances were studied in higher educational establishments. The intensive indices of the morbidity and incidence of border-line states amounted to 6.9 and 19.3 per 1000 students. Among the students of humanitarian faculties the number of the patients with border-line states was 6 times as great as compared to technical students and 3 times as great as compared to the students of biomedical and physico-mathematical departments. The authors recommend that the main attention in the rehabilitation of students with border-line neuropsychic disturbances should be attached to the outpatient programmes as they are the most effective for this group of patients. It is also recommended to organize specialized rooms of mental hygiene for students.", "PMID": 442903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5792", "title": "[Function and structure of narcological services for an urban population].", "content": "The author describes the experience in activities of the system of narcological profile institutions in Leningrad, determines their function and structure, gives a definition of a new, combined principle of a prophylactic medical examination for patients of a narcological profile. A prophylactic medical examination of patients according to their residence in addition with a prophylactic medical examination at a place of work of chronic alcoholic patients in a condition which makes it necessary to isolate organizationally narcological service as an independent type of specialized medical service for the population.", "contents": "[Function and structure of narcological services for an urban population]. The author describes the experience in activities of the system of narcological profile institutions in Leningrad, determines their function and structure, gives a definition of a new, combined principle of a prophylactic medical examination for patients of a narcological profile. A prophylactic medical examination of patients according to their residence in addition with a prophylactic medical examination at a place of work of chronic alcoholic patients in a condition which makes it necessary to isolate organizationally narcological service as an independent type of specialized medical service for the population.", "PMID": 442904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5793", "title": "[Clinical diagnosis in degenerative diseases of the spine].", "content": "A new qualitative condition \"illness\" arises when its quantitative state attains a certain level (appearance of degenerative spinal changes). The qualitative verge is conventional, dynamic. The changes in the spinal defensive mechanisms shown by nervous system lesions and circulatory disorders may be regarded as its verge. Long-term remissions, appearing in a reverse transition of the qualitative verge may be considered as a clinical recovery in stabilization or even eventual progress of degenerative spinal changes. It is inadmissable to identify spinal degenerative processes with diseases produced by them. Varied and phasic clinical symptomatology appearance of long-term remissions, availability of the most informative methods of study for each phase, the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches and preventive measures, as well as the interests of differential diagnosis permit to consider the clinical manifestations of separate stages in the degenerative process as specific nozological forms regardless of their common vertebrogenic origin. The formulation of a clinical diagnosis depends to a large extent upon the generally acknowledged classification of the nervous system.", "contents": "[Clinical diagnosis in degenerative diseases of the spine]. A new qualitative condition \"illness\" arises when its quantitative state attains a certain level (appearance of degenerative spinal changes). The qualitative verge is conventional, dynamic. The changes in the spinal defensive mechanisms shown by nervous system lesions and circulatory disorders may be regarded as its verge. Long-term remissions, appearing in a reverse transition of the qualitative verge may be considered as a clinical recovery in stabilization or even eventual progress of degenerative spinal changes. It is inadmissable to identify spinal degenerative processes with diseases produced by them. Varied and phasic clinical symptomatology appearance of long-term remissions, availability of the most informative methods of study for each phase, the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches and preventive measures, as well as the interests of differential diagnosis permit to consider the clinical manifestations of separate stages in the degenerative process as specific nozological forms regardless of their common vertebrogenic origin. The formulation of a clinical diagnosis depends to a large extent upon the generally acknowledged classification of the nervous system.", "PMID": 442906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5794", "title": "[Analysis of the distribution of ABO system blood groups among patients with spinal osteochondrosis syndromes].", "content": "The paper contains a comparative analysis of the distribution of the blood groups of the ABO system in 1731 patients with syndromes of spinal osteochondrosis and in 9013 representatives of the population. Besides the frequency indices the authors studied as well the index of a relative morbidity A/O the \"racial-biochemical\" Hirshfeld index and the relationship of the frequency of group 0 to the sum of frequency in the A, B, AB group. It was demonstrated that there was a significant drop in patients with spinal osteochondrosis of the frequency of the 0 group and an increase of the group A. These deviations demonstrate a correlation with the sex, age by the onset, localization of the process longitudinally to the spine and hereditary loading (cases of repeated cases in the family). The revealed regularities may be considered as evidence of the influence of the genotype on the development of spinal osteochondrosis as well as one of the mechanisms determining the immune response in this disease.", "contents": "[Analysis of the distribution of ABO system blood groups among patients with spinal osteochondrosis syndromes]. The paper contains a comparative analysis of the distribution of the blood groups of the ABO system in 1731 patients with syndromes of spinal osteochondrosis and in 9013 representatives of the population. Besides the frequency indices the authors studied as well the index of a relative morbidity A/O the \"racial-biochemical\" Hirshfeld index and the relationship of the frequency of group 0 to the sum of frequency in the A, B, AB group. It was demonstrated that there was a significant drop in patients with spinal osteochondrosis of the frequency of the 0 group and an increase of the group A. These deviations demonstrate a correlation with the sex, age by the onset, localization of the process longitudinally to the spine and hereditary loading (cases of repeated cases in the family). The revealed regularities may be considered as evidence of the influence of the genotype on the development of spinal osteochondrosis as well as one of the mechanisms determining the immune response in this disease.", "PMID": 442908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5795", "title": "[Pathogenesis of symptomatic facial hemiatrophy].", "content": "The data on clinical and electroencephalographic examination of 19 patients are presented. The patients developed facial hemiatrophy after they had sustained ganglionitis of the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion, stem encephalitis, trifacial neuralgia (neuritic stage), tumours of the Gasserian ganglion and syringobulbia. A pathogenetic relationship between the development of symptomatic facial hemiatrophy and lesions of the vegetative and somatic apparatus in the cerebral (mesencephalotruncal area) and extracerebral (superior cervical sympathetic ganglion) structures of the nervous system is noted.", "contents": "[Pathogenesis of symptomatic facial hemiatrophy]. The data on clinical and electroencephalographic examination of 19 patients are presented. The patients developed facial hemiatrophy after they had sustained ganglionitis of the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion, stem encephalitis, trifacial neuralgia (neuritic stage), tumours of the Gasserian ganglion and syringobulbia. A pathogenetic relationship between the development of symptomatic facial hemiatrophy and lesions of the vegetative and somatic apparatus in the cerebral (mesencephalotruncal area) and extracerebral (superior cervical sympathetic ganglion) structures of the nervous system is noted.", "PMID": 442909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5796", "title": "[Facial neuritis in middle-aged and elderly patients].", "content": "The progress of facial nerve neuritis was studied clinically in 59 patients of middle and old age with atherosclerosis and arterial hypertension. The patients were divided into 3 groups. An inflammatory genesis of prosoplegia was established in the first group (12 cases). The second group (24 cases) showed symptoms of the inflammatory process with a predominance of vascular insufficiency. This circumstance hampered elucidation of the etiology of the disease, but pointed to crucial significance of vascular factors in the development of prosoplegia. The third group (23 cases) demonstrated a vascular nature of prosoplegia. It is assumed that the importance of insufficiency in the blood supply of the facial nerve in the etiopathogenesis of prosoplegia in most patients should be reflected in the approach to its treatment.", "contents": "[Facial neuritis in middle-aged and elderly patients]. The progress of facial nerve neuritis was studied clinically in 59 patients of middle and old age with atherosclerosis and arterial hypertension. The patients were divided into 3 groups. An inflammatory genesis of prosoplegia was established in the first group (12 cases). The second group (24 cases) showed symptoms of the inflammatory process with a predominance of vascular insufficiency. This circumstance hampered elucidation of the etiology of the disease, but pointed to crucial significance of vascular factors in the development of prosoplegia. The third group (23 cases) demonstrated a vascular nature of prosoplegia. It is assumed that the importance of insufficiency in the blood supply of the facial nerve in the etiopathogenesis of prosoplegia in most patients should be reflected in the approach to its treatment.", "PMID": 442910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5797", "title": "[Role of functional interaction between the facial and masticatory muscles in the genesis of synkineses in patients with neuritis of the facial nerve].", "content": "The electromyogram of orbicular muscles of the eye and masticatory muscles was studied in 19 patients with facial nerve neuritis and 11 normals. In a maximum contraction of the masticatory muscles, the orbicular muscles of the eye showed an activity equal to about 9% of the maximum amplitude of the orbicular muscles. Similar activity in the paretic muscles was not decreased. The development of secondary synkinesia is postulated.", "contents": "[Role of functional interaction between the facial and masticatory muscles in the genesis of synkineses in patients with neuritis of the facial nerve]. The electromyogram of orbicular muscles of the eye and masticatory muscles was studied in 19 patients with facial nerve neuritis and 11 normals. In a maximum contraction of the masticatory muscles, the orbicular muscles of the eye showed an activity equal to about 9% of the maximum amplitude of the orbicular muscles. Similar activity in the paretic muscles was not decreased. The development of secondary synkinesia is postulated.", "PMID": 442911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5798", "title": "[Cerebral strokes. Incidence and mortality].", "content": "The paper presents data concerning the incidence of brain strokes and the mortality rate. These indices were received for the first time on a large population by the method of brain stroke register. The frequency of brain strokes during one year equaled to 2.5 cases, the mortality rate 1 case per 1000 population. Genuine indices of the incidence and mortality rates for different age groups were established. They appeared to be relatively high in people over 60 years. The mortality coefficient is higher in females. In brain infarctions the frequency and mortality is higher than in brain and subarachnoidal hemorrhages.", "contents": "[Cerebral strokes. Incidence and mortality]. The paper presents data concerning the incidence of brain strokes and the mortality rate. These indices were received for the first time on a large population by the method of brain stroke register. The frequency of brain strokes during one year equaled to 2.5 cases, the mortality rate 1 case per 1000 population. Genuine indices of the incidence and mortality rates for different age groups were established. They appeared to be relatively high in people over 60 years. The mortality coefficient is higher in females. In brain infarctions the frequency and mortality is higher than in brain and subarachnoidal hemorrhages.", "PMID": 442912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5799", "title": "[So-called small-scope delusions].", "content": "Analysis of psychopathological traits of the paranoiac syndrome in 60 patients with late schizophrenia permitted to distinguish certan signs which can be allocated to the differentiation of late schizophrenia from other delusional psychoses in the elderly. The following differential signs were underlined: initial symptoms, such as rudimentary cenesthopathia, stable insomnia, etc., preceding the formation of delusions; appearance of episodic exacerbations in the form of short-time acute paranoiac states; a combination of paranoiac delusion with stable phasic affective disorders; unusual possession of delusional patients expressed in bizarre delusional behaviour, etc. Using this example as a model, the necessity of further profound and differentiated psychopathological studies of syndromes distinguished as predilective for old age is indicated.", "contents": "[So-called small-scope delusions]. Analysis of psychopathological traits of the paranoiac syndrome in 60 patients with late schizophrenia permitted to distinguish certan signs which can be allocated to the differentiation of late schizophrenia from other delusional psychoses in the elderly. The following differential signs were underlined: initial symptoms, such as rudimentary cenesthopathia, stable insomnia, etc., preceding the formation of delusions; appearance of episodic exacerbations in the form of short-time acute paranoiac states; a combination of paranoiac delusion with stable phasic affective disorders; unusual possession of delusional patients expressed in bizarre delusional behaviour, etc. Using this example as a model, the necessity of further profound and differentiated psychopathological studies of syndromes distinguished as predilective for old age is indicated.", "PMID": 442913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5800", "title": "[Masked depression in the ambulatory-polyclinic section of the general medical network].", "content": "Some results reported concerning patients with masked depressions (MD), detected in one of the district consultative-diagnostic centers (DCDC). Masked depressions were established in 22.7% of patients who were consulted in the center during one year. Studies on the past history and motions of MD patients in the system of the city public health network, the psychopathological and nosological structure of MDs, controversial clinical evaluation in psychiatric institutions demonstrate a relatively large number of MDs in therapeutic and diagnostic work in general. The conclusion is made about the necessity of new forms in delivering care in this population and, in particular, of feasibility of including a psychiatrist in the staff of DCDC. This would make it possible to set up in the future psychosomatic wards of an intermediate type between a somatic and psychiatric hospital with open doors.", "contents": "[Masked depression in the ambulatory-polyclinic section of the general medical network]. Some results reported concerning patients with masked depressions (MD), detected in one of the district consultative-diagnostic centers (DCDC). Masked depressions were established in 22.7% of patients who were consulted in the center during one year. Studies on the past history and motions of MD patients in the system of the city public health network, the psychopathological and nosological structure of MDs, controversial clinical evaluation in psychiatric institutions demonstrate a relatively large number of MDs in therapeutic and diagnostic work in general. The conclusion is made about the necessity of new forms in delivering care in this population and, in particular, of feasibility of including a psychiatrist in the staff of DCDC. This would make it possible to set up in the future psychosomatic wards of an intermediate type between a somatic and psychiatric hospital with open doors.", "PMID": 442914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5801", "title": "[Severity of depression (clinico-statistical study)].", "content": "A total of 218 patients from 19-40 years of age with different depressions were examined. Four types of depressive disorders were distinguished: neurotic, hypopsychotic, psychotic, depressive-paranoid. It was demonstrated that depressive conditions of various severity possess differential symptoms with significantly different probabilities. Each clinical group had a certain set of differential symptoms, the amount and syndromal-diagnostical value of which was in a direct correlation with the affect severity. Signs of depression got complicated only to a certain limit. In depressive-paranoid syndrome there was a splitting of the depressive symptomatology: enhancement of some symptoms and alleviation of others.", "contents": "[Severity of depression (clinico-statistical study)]. A total of 218 patients from 19-40 years of age with different depressions were examined. Four types of depressive disorders were distinguished: neurotic, hypopsychotic, psychotic, depressive-paranoid. It was demonstrated that depressive conditions of various severity possess differential symptoms with significantly different probabilities. Each clinical group had a certain set of differential symptoms, the amount and syndromal-diagnostical value of which was in a direct correlation with the affect severity. Signs of depression got complicated only to a certain limit. In depressive-paranoid syndrome there was a splitting of the depressive symptomatology: enhancement of some symptoms and alleviation of others.", "PMID": 442915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5802", "title": "[Use of sleep deprivation for the purpose of treating protracted depressive states].", "content": "Sleep deprivation therapy was used in 30 patients with protracted, resistant depressive phases within the framework of manic-depressive psychosis. All patients demonstrated some improvement, which lasted from several hours up to 3 days. Changes in the state were mainly expressed in mood swings and to a less extent to the sphere of thinking and motor acts. A course of sleep deprivation (6-8 nights without sleep with an interval of 2-7 days) was administered to 19 patients, of them 7 patients demonstrated a stable improvement. Recording depressive symptomatology by the scale of intensity showed significant positive changes according to the following parameters: mood, thinking, motor acts, interests, sociability. The highest effect was seen in patients with melancholic pictures and significantly worse in depressive-anxious and depressive-obsessional syndromes.", "contents": "[Use of sleep deprivation for the purpose of treating protracted depressive states]. Sleep deprivation therapy was used in 30 patients with protracted, resistant depressive phases within the framework of manic-depressive psychosis. All patients demonstrated some improvement, which lasted from several hours up to 3 days. Changes in the state were mainly expressed in mood swings and to a less extent to the sphere of thinking and motor acts. A course of sleep deprivation (6-8 nights without sleep with an interval of 2-7 days) was administered to 19 patients, of them 7 patients demonstrated a stable improvement. Recording depressive symptomatology by the scale of intensity showed significant positive changes according to the following parameters: mood, thinking, motor acts, interests, sociability. The highest effect was seen in patients with melancholic pictures and significantly worse in depressive-anxious and depressive-obsessional syndromes.", "PMID": 442916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5803", "title": "[Comparative clinico-epidemiologic study of schizophrenic patients living in the central region and far northeast USSR].", "content": "The paper deals with comparative clinico-epidemiological studies on populations of schizophrenics, living in some districts of Moscow and the Far North-East of the USSR. It was shown that the clinical picture of schizophrenia in the North-East regions of the country is characterized by a milder development, a prevalence of relatively light psychopathological syndromes and attack-like forms of the disease. It was also demonstrated that the working capacity of patients in the North is higher, which is also related to the forms of development of schizophrenia and the microsocial conditions of this region.", "contents": "[Comparative clinico-epidemiologic study of schizophrenic patients living in the central region and far northeast USSR]. The paper deals with comparative clinico-epidemiological studies on populations of schizophrenics, living in some districts of Moscow and the Far North-East of the USSR. It was shown that the clinical picture of schizophrenia in the North-East regions of the country is characterized by a milder development, a prevalence of relatively light psychopathological syndromes and attack-like forms of the disease. It was also demonstrated that the working capacity of patients in the North is higher, which is also related to the forms of development of schizophrenia and the microsocial conditions of this region.", "PMID": 442917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5804", "title": "The national qualifying examination for certification of nurse anesthetists: a report covering six examinations--November, 1975-June, 1978.", "content": "Since 1975, the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists has been responsible for the National Qualifying Examination Program, an essential component of the process whereby graduates of accredited nurse anesthesia educational programs gain certification in this nursing specialty. The following report has been prepared to share information about the examination program, including the results of the past six examinations.", "contents": "The national qualifying examination for certification of nurse anesthetists: a report covering six examinations--November, 1975-June, 1978. Since 1975, the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists has been responsible for the National Qualifying Examination Program, an essential component of the process whereby graduates of accredited nurse anesthesia educational programs gain certification in this nursing specialty. The following report has been prepared to share information about the examination program, including the results of the past six examinations.", "PMID": 442928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5805", "title": "[Vertical echoencephalography in the diagnosis of space-occupying brain lesions].", "content": "Vertical probing used in addition to horizontal probing in echoencephalographic examination of patients allows more exact localization of the volumetric process, especially one situated parasagittaly. Transducers of three frequencies, 0.88, 1,76, and 2.64 m. c. s., are used in the examination of patients. It is shown that transducers with higher frequencies, 1.76 and 2.64 m. c. s., have advantages over a transducer with a frequency of 0.88 m. c. s.", "contents": "[Vertical echoencephalography in the diagnosis of space-occupying brain lesions]. Vertical probing used in addition to horizontal probing in echoencephalographic examination of patients allows more exact localization of the volumetric process, especially one situated parasagittaly. Transducers of three frequencies, 0.88, 1,76, and 2.64 m. c. s., are used in the examination of patients. It is shown that transducers with higher frequencies, 1.76 and 2.64 m. c. s., have advantages over a transducer with a frequency of 0.88 m. c. s.", "PMID": 442924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5806", "title": "[Treatment of occlusive hydrocephalus of nontumor origin by endoscopic means].", "content": "In 11 patients whose ages ranged from 3 months to 5 years occlusive hydrocephalus of nontumorous genesis was treated surgically with the use of endoscopy. Perforation of the floor of the third ventricle, lamina terminalis, and commissures of the fornices and bougienage of the cerebral aqueduct were carried out. One patients died in the postoperative period, in the other 10 patients the immediate result was good. The follow-up of the catamnesis of 9 patients showed that a stable positive effect was produced in 8 of them. The endoscopic method is simple, causes little trauma, and is sufficiently effective as a method of surgical treatment of hydrocephalus of nontumorous genesis in childhood neurosurgery.", "contents": "[Treatment of occlusive hydrocephalus of nontumor origin by endoscopic means]. In 11 patients whose ages ranged from 3 months to 5 years occlusive hydrocephalus of nontumorous genesis was treated surgically with the use of endoscopy. Perforation of the floor of the third ventricle, lamina terminalis, and commissures of the fornices and bougienage of the cerebral aqueduct were carried out. One patients died in the postoperative period, in the other 10 patients the immediate result was good. The follow-up of the catamnesis of 9 patients showed that a stable positive effect was produced in 8 of them. The endoscopic method is simple, causes little trauma, and is sufficiently effective as a method of surgical treatment of hydrocephalus of nontumorous genesis in childhood neurosurgery.", "PMID": 442923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5807", "title": "Legal aspects of anesthesia charting.", "content": "To the anesthesia practitioner, the possibility of malpractice claims constitutes a very real and ever-present problem for it lies within the risks inherent in the administration of anesthesia. Since the areas of anesthesia which may be subject to suit are legion, the problem of malpractice becomes too complex to afford easy answers. Clearly, though, it is a problem all too serious to ignore. This article examines one aspect of the problem: the importance of good documentation in anesthesia.", "contents": "Legal aspects of anesthesia charting. To the anesthesia practitioner, the possibility of malpractice claims constitutes a very real and ever-present problem for it lies within the risks inherent in the administration of anesthesia. Since the areas of anesthesia which may be subject to suit are legion, the problem of malpractice becomes too complex to afford easy answers. Clearly, though, it is a problem all too serious to ignore. This article examines one aspect of the problem: the importance of good documentation in anesthesia.", "PMID": 442930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5808", "title": "[Experimental anatomic basis for tentorium cerebelli incisions].", "content": "The histotopographic features of the structure of the upper and lower layers of the tentorium cerebelli and the range of the age and individual variability of its dimensions were studied on 152 preparations. The main neuro-vascular structures are located in the lower layer of the tentorium. Two extreme forms of the structure of the neuro-vascular bundle are distinguished: main-line and spreading. Various localizations of the tentorial bundle are described: lateral, medial, and separate bilateral. A zone of the tentorium cerebelli that is relatively poor in vessels and nerves and comparatively favourable for incision is established. Measurements of the tentorium cerebelli according to age and sex made it possible to determine the optimum length of its incisions.", "contents": "[Experimental anatomic basis for tentorium cerebelli incisions]. The histotopographic features of the structure of the upper and lower layers of the tentorium cerebelli and the range of the age and individual variability of its dimensions were studied on 152 preparations. The main neuro-vascular structures are located in the lower layer of the tentorium. Two extreme forms of the structure of the neuro-vascular bundle are distinguished: main-line and spreading. Various localizations of the tentorial bundle are described: lateral, medial, and separate bilateral. A zone of the tentorium cerebelli that is relatively poor in vessels and nerves and comparatively favourable for incision is established. Measurements of the tentorium cerebelli according to age and sex made it possible to determine the optimum length of its incisions.", "PMID": 442925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5809", "title": "[Spinal cord hypothermia in neurosurgical practice].", "content": "Spinal cord hypothermia was conducted in 113 patients. It led to a decrease of bleeding from the tissues during the operation, reduced edema of the spinal cord, diminished spasticity of muscles, improved motor function of the affected limbs, and alleviation of the pain syndrome. Hypothermia of the spinal cord also caused changes in motoneuron excitability and circulation, both local and general, and shifts in body thermoregulation.", "contents": "[Spinal cord hypothermia in neurosurgical practice]. Spinal cord hypothermia was conducted in 113 patients. It led to a decrease of bleeding from the tissues during the operation, reduced edema of the spinal cord, diminished spasticity of muscles, improved motor function of the affected limbs, and alleviation of the pain syndrome. Hypothermia of the spinal cord also caused changes in motoneuron excitability and circulation, both local and general, and shifts in body thermoregulation.", "PMID": 442927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5810", "title": "Preoperative and postoperative use of clonidine with neurolept anaesthesia.", "content": "The abrupt cessation of clonidine therapy can induce a withdrawal syndrome. This may also appear immediately after anaesthesia if clonidine medication is discontinued during the operation day. We studied (1) whether the withdrawal syndrome occurs postoperatively as often as otherwise when clonidine therapy is discontinued, and (2) the action of this clonidine withdrawal on the circulation as compared to patients who received clonidine without interruption during the operation day. During the recovery period in 2 out of 10 patients in whom clonidine medication was discontinued, a hypertensive crisis occurred, which was relieved by clonidine readministration. Clonidine given with premedication eliminated high rises in blood pressure during anaesthesia. During the recovery period, the regular intramuscular administration of the same dose of clonidine as the patients had used orally decreased blood pressure to almost normotensive levels. The slightly increased urinary catecholamine excretion and plasma renin activity in these patients might, however, indicate that the circulatory homeostasis was disturbed in some degree. The results suggest that it is important to give clonidine continuously, even during the operation day. The dose may be the same as, or preferably somewhat smaller than that which the patients have previously received orally.", "contents": "Preoperative and postoperative use of clonidine with neurolept anaesthesia. The abrupt cessation of clonidine therapy can induce a withdrawal syndrome. This may also appear immediately after anaesthesia if clonidine medication is discontinued during the operation day. We studied (1) whether the withdrawal syndrome occurs postoperatively as often as otherwise when clonidine therapy is discontinued, and (2) the action of this clonidine withdrawal on the circulation as compared to patients who received clonidine without interruption during the operation day. During the recovery period in 2 out of 10 patients in whom clonidine medication was discontinued, a hypertensive crisis occurred, which was relieved by clonidine readministration. Clonidine given with premedication eliminated high rises in blood pressure during anaesthesia. During the recovery period, the regular intramuscular administration of the same dose of clonidine as the patients had used orally decreased blood pressure to almost normotensive levels. The slightly increased urinary catecholamine excretion and plasma renin activity in these patients might, however, indicate that the circulatory homeostasis was disturbed in some degree. The results suggest that it is important to give clonidine continuously, even during the operation day. The dose may be the same as, or preferably somewhat smaller than that which the patients have previously received orally.", "PMID": 442942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5811", "title": "Local anesthetics: importance of mode of application, concentration and adrenaline for the appearance of nerve lesions. An experimental study of axonal degeneration and barrier damage after intrafascicular injection or topical application of bupivacaine (Marcain).", "content": "Local anesthetics are designed for application in or close to nerve tissue. In spite of their wide clinical use, surprisingly few investigations deal with the neural toxicity of modern local anesthetics. In this experimental study, the effects were investigated of intrafascicular or topical application of the long-acting local anesthetic bupivacaine on the rabbit sciatic nerve. Axonal degeneration was histologically evaluated and a fluorescence-microscopic technique used to detect lesions in the blood-nerve barrier. Topical application of bupivacaine in clinically recommended concentrations around the nerve caused no detectable nerve injury, while intrafascicular injections caused considerable axonal degeneration and damaged the blood nerve barrier. Axonal degeneration was the same after injection of physiologic saline solution and bupivacaine 0.5%, but it increased with increasing bupivacaine concentration and especially with the addition of adrenaline. On the other hand, the acute effects of intrafascicular injection, as visualized in the barrier experiments, changed little with the addition of adrenaline, indicating that it is the injection trauma itself which is deleterious. It is concluded that intraneural injections should be avoided and that plain bupivacaine solutions should be routinely used.", "contents": "Local anesthetics: importance of mode of application, concentration and adrenaline for the appearance of nerve lesions. An experimental study of axonal degeneration and barrier damage after intrafascicular injection or topical application of bupivacaine (Marcain). Local anesthetics are designed for application in or close to nerve tissue. In spite of their wide clinical use, surprisingly few investigations deal with the neural toxicity of modern local anesthetics. In this experimental study, the effects were investigated of intrafascicular or topical application of the long-acting local anesthetic bupivacaine on the rabbit sciatic nerve. Axonal degeneration was histologically evaluated and a fluorescence-microscopic technique used to detect lesions in the blood-nerve barrier. Topical application of bupivacaine in clinically recommended concentrations around the nerve caused no detectable nerve injury, while intrafascicular injections caused considerable axonal degeneration and damaged the blood nerve barrier. Axonal degeneration was the same after injection of physiologic saline solution and bupivacaine 0.5%, but it increased with increasing bupivacaine concentration and especially with the addition of adrenaline. On the other hand, the acute effects of intrafascicular injection, as visualized in the barrier experiments, changed little with the addition of adrenaline, indicating that it is the injection trauma itself which is deleterious. It is concluded that intraneural injections should be avoided and that plain bupivacaine solutions should be routinely used.", "PMID": 442943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5812", "title": "Regional lung function and central hemodynamics following normovolemic hemodilution in the dog.", "content": "Regional lung function, using xenon 133-radiospirometry, and central hemodynamics were studied following normovolemic hemodilution with dextran 70. Normovolemic hemodilution to hermatocrit values of 25% increased cardiac output and pulmonary blood volume significantly. The systemic oxygen transport and mixed venous oxygen tension were unchanged. The acute hemodilution did not significantly change the distribution of ventilation or prefusion within the lungs. It is hypothesised that a tendency to an increase in arterial oxygenation is due to a reduced interstitial pressure in the basal region of the lungs, resulting from water absorption by the hyperoncotic dextran used for hemodilution.", "contents": "Regional lung function and central hemodynamics following normovolemic hemodilution in the dog. Regional lung function, using xenon 133-radiospirometry, and central hemodynamics were studied following normovolemic hemodilution with dextran 70. Normovolemic hemodilution to hermatocrit values of 25% increased cardiac output and pulmonary blood volume significantly. The systemic oxygen transport and mixed venous oxygen tension were unchanged. The acute hemodilution did not significantly change the distribution of ventilation or prefusion within the lungs. It is hypothesised that a tendency to an increase in arterial oxygenation is due to a reduced interstitial pressure in the basal region of the lungs, resulting from water absorption by the hyperoncotic dextran used for hemodilution.", "PMID": 442944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5813", "title": "Prevalence and prognostic significance of coma after cardiac arrest outside intensive care and coronary units.", "content": "In 181 patients resuscitated from cardiac arrest, the prevalence and duration of coma were registered and related to the site of occurrence of cardiac arrest, cardiac rhythm during arrest, age and clinical outcome of the patients. Coma was most frequent after cardiac arrest outside the hospital, as 84% of these patients were comatose for more than 1 h and 56% for more than 24 h; the corresponding values for patients with cardiac arrest in general wards were 63% and 30%, respectively, and for patients with cardiac arrest during ambulance transport, 80% and 44%. Permanent brain damage was extremely rare if the coma lasted less than 6 h (1 out of 62 patients), and relatively rare with a coma duration between 6 and 24 h (5 out of 34 patients). Of the patients, 85 remained comatose for more than 24 h and only 7 of them were discharged alive, all with cerebral impairment of a severity increasing with the duration of the coma. None regained consciousness after more than 7 days' coma, and a total of 80 patients died in coma, 20 with signs of cerebral death. Older patients were more vulnerable to coma than younger ones, but coma as such was not more frequent. We found no differences in coma after asystole and ventricular fibrillation. Problems concerning the selection of patients who have a chance of survival, although comatose after cardiac arrest, are discussed.", "contents": "Prevalence and prognostic significance of coma after cardiac arrest outside intensive care and coronary units. In 181 patients resuscitated from cardiac arrest, the prevalence and duration of coma were registered and related to the site of occurrence of cardiac arrest, cardiac rhythm during arrest, age and clinical outcome of the patients. Coma was most frequent after cardiac arrest outside the hospital, as 84% of these patients were comatose for more than 1 h and 56% for more than 24 h; the corresponding values for patients with cardiac arrest in general wards were 63% and 30%, respectively, and for patients with cardiac arrest during ambulance transport, 80% and 44%. Permanent brain damage was extremely rare if the coma lasted less than 6 h (1 out of 62 patients), and relatively rare with a coma duration between 6 and 24 h (5 out of 34 patients). Of the patients, 85 remained comatose for more than 24 h and only 7 of them were discharged alive, all with cerebral impairment of a severity increasing with the duration of the coma. None regained consciousness after more than 7 days' coma, and a total of 80 patients died in coma, 20 with signs of cerebral death. Older patients were more vulnerable to coma than younger ones, but coma as such was not more frequent. We found no differences in coma after asystole and ventricular fibrillation. Problems concerning the selection of patients who have a chance of survival, although comatose after cardiac arrest, are discussed.", "PMID": 442945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5814", "title": "Cerebral circulatory and metabolic stimulation with nitrous oxide in the dog. Reconfirmation by the simultaneous measurement of cerebral blood flow using direct and Kety-Schmidt methods.", "content": "In both the presence and the absence of nitrous oxide (57%, end-tidal), cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured by a direct method in dogs, and compared to an indirect method (Kety-Schmidt method), using argon as the tracer. Eighteen comparisons were made in five dogs at flows ranging from 45 to 123 ml per 100 g per minute. There was no systematic difference in CBF between the direct and indirect methods, and the ratio of direct CBF to indirect CBF was 1.03. The cerebral circulatory and metabolic stimulation effect of N2O in the dog was reconfirmed.", "contents": "Cerebral circulatory and metabolic stimulation with nitrous oxide in the dog. Reconfirmation by the simultaneous measurement of cerebral blood flow using direct and Kety-Schmidt methods. In both the presence and the absence of nitrous oxide (57%, end-tidal), cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured by a direct method in dogs, and compared to an indirect method (Kety-Schmidt method), using argon as the tracer. Eighteen comparisons were made in five dogs at flows ranging from 45 to 123 ml per 100 g per minute. There was no systematic difference in CBF between the direct and indirect methods, and the ratio of direct CBF to indirect CBF was 1.03. The cerebral circulatory and metabolic stimulation effect of N2O in the dog was reconfirmed.", "PMID": 442946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5815", "title": "Arrhythmias during halothane anesthesia IV. The influence of a single dose of suxamethonium.", "content": "The effect of a single dose of suxamethonium on cardiac rate and rhythm during halothane anesthesia with babiturate induction was studied in a prospective, triple-blind trial with 28 patients. No atropine was given and patients were not intubated. A slight but significant preponderance of sinus-bradycardia without hemodynamic consequences was found in the group given suxamethonium. Suxamethonium did not provoke ventricular ectopies or conduction disturbances. It is concluded that in anesthesia with barbiturate induction, but without atropine or intubation, the use of a single dose of suxamethonium is a safe procedure with regard to cardiac rate and rhythm.", "contents": "Arrhythmias during halothane anesthesia IV. The influence of a single dose of suxamethonium. The effect of a single dose of suxamethonium on cardiac rate and rhythm during halothane anesthesia with babiturate induction was studied in a prospective, triple-blind trial with 28 patients. No atropine was given and patients were not intubated. A slight but significant preponderance of sinus-bradycardia without hemodynamic consequences was found in the group given suxamethonium. Suxamethonium did not provoke ventricular ectopies or conduction disturbances. It is concluded that in anesthesia with barbiturate induction, but without atropine or intubation, the use of a single dose of suxamethonium is a safe procedure with regard to cardiac rate and rhythm.", "PMID": 442947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5816", "title": "ECG electrodes. A study of electrical and mechanical long-term properties.", "content": "The long-term properties of commercially available ECG-electrodes were studied by investigating the parameters: polarization potential, electrical impedance, adhesion, and skin reactions during a period of 7 days. As expected, the most stable polarization potentials were obtained for Ag/AgCl electrodes. Certain simple disposable electrodes showed large polarization potential variations. The most stable electrode impedance was obtained for disposable electrodes with stable adhesion and equipped with an electrode cup or similar. Unchanged adhesion and mechanical properties during the test period were shown by the disposable electrodes with a large self-adhesive collar.", "contents": "ECG electrodes. A study of electrical and mechanical long-term properties. The long-term properties of commercially available ECG-electrodes were studied by investigating the parameters: polarization potential, electrical impedance, adhesion, and skin reactions during a period of 7 days. As expected, the most stable polarization potentials were obtained for Ag/AgCl electrodes. Certain simple disposable electrodes showed large polarization potential variations. The most stable electrode impedance was obtained for disposable electrodes with stable adhesion and equipped with an electrode cup or similar. Unchanged adhesion and mechanical properties during the test period were shown by the disposable electrodes with a large self-adhesive collar.", "PMID": 442948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5817", "title": "The normal juxtaglomerular apparatus in the human kidney. A morphological study.", "content": "Out of 49 serially studied juxtaglomerular apparatuses, 6 typical variants from two normal human kidneys were reconstructed graphically. The agranular Goormaghtigh cells filled the entire space between the macula densa, the afferent and the efferent arterioles and the glomerular mesangium. The Goormaghtigh cells were always in direct contact with all the other structures. They also invariably continued into the glomerular mesangium. The distal tubule regularly showed widening in the macula densa segment and, at this level, there was considerable variation in the shape of the distal tubule. Direct contact between the macula densa and the hilar arterioles was not always present, the area of contact was usually greater with the afferent than with the efferent arteriole.", "contents": "The normal juxtaglomerular apparatus in the human kidney. A morphological study. Out of 49 serially studied juxtaglomerular apparatuses, 6 typical variants from two normal human kidneys were reconstructed graphically. The agranular Goormaghtigh cells filled the entire space between the macula densa, the afferent and the efferent arterioles and the glomerular mesangium. The Goormaghtigh cells were always in direct contact with all the other structures. They also invariably continued into the glomerular mesangium. The distal tubule regularly showed widening in the macula densa segment and, at this level, there was considerable variation in the shape of the distal tubule. Direct contact between the macula densa and the hilar arterioles was not always present, the area of contact was usually greater with the afferent than with the efferent arteriole.", "PMID": 442949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5818", "title": "Light- and electron-microscopic observations on the closure of the secondary palate with the primary palate and the nasal septum.", "content": "Closure between the secondary palate and the primary palate and between the former and the nasal septum was studied in the Syrian golden hamster at light- and electron-microscopic level. Sequential changes in the epithelia before, during and after the closure of the primary and the secondary palate were described. A characteristic epithelial thickening was observed prior to epithelial fusion between the nasal septum and the secondary palatal shelf. Fusion of the opposing epithelia was characterized by formation of desmosomes. An unilateral or bilateral empty space was observed on each side of the epithelial seam, and it was suggested that this may represent the incisive foramen in the adult.", "contents": "Light- and electron-microscopic observations on the closure of the secondary palate with the primary palate and the nasal septum. Closure between the secondary palate and the primary palate and between the former and the nasal septum was studied in the Syrian golden hamster at light- and electron-microscopic level. Sequential changes in the epithelia before, during and after the closure of the primary and the secondary palate were described. A characteristic epithelial thickening was observed prior to epithelial fusion between the nasal septum and the secondary palatal shelf. Fusion of the opposing epithelia was characterized by formation of desmosomes. An unilateral or bilateral empty space was observed on each side of the epithelial seam, and it was suggested that this may represent the incisive foramen in the adult.", "PMID": 442950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5819", "title": "Ganglia formation of the peripheral nervous system.", "content": "Embryologic studies have shown that the ganglions of the peripheral nervous system are formed by the neuroblasts from the central nervous system. The histotopography of the neurons and their segmental communications with the central nervous system are established experimentally (segmental section of the ventral roots and resection of the spinal nodes: 100 experiments). It is proved that the neurons, which communicate with the definite segment of the spinal cord, are diffusely distributed in the ganglion mass.", "contents": "Ganglia formation of the peripheral nervous system. Embryologic studies have shown that the ganglions of the peripheral nervous system are formed by the neuroblasts from the central nervous system. The histotopography of the neurons and their segmental communications with the central nervous system are established experimentally (segmental section of the ventral roots and resection of the spinal nodes: 100 experiments). It is proved that the neurons, which communicate with the definite segment of the spinal cord, are diffusely distributed in the ganglion mass.", "PMID": 442951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5820", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the normal human adrenal cortex].", "content": "Electron-microscopic investigations on the human adrenal cortex have been carried out in order to elucidate ultrastructural differences in the various zones. These studies indicate that certain differences in the ultrastructure of the mitochondria may be particularly useful as criteria to differentiate the three cortical zones. In this regard, the appearance of two types of mitochondria in the zona glomerulosa as well as in the zona fasciculata is of obvious interest. The probability of a relationship between the activity of the different cortical zones and the predominant presence of one form of mitochondria has been suggested. In addition, ultrastructural transformations following stress situations as well as problems dealing with the so-called 'dark and light cells' and the basal membrane are discussed.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the normal human adrenal cortex]. Electron-microscopic investigations on the human adrenal cortex have been carried out in order to elucidate ultrastructural differences in the various zones. These studies indicate that certain differences in the ultrastructure of the mitochondria may be particularly useful as criteria to differentiate the three cortical zones. In this regard, the appearance of two types of mitochondria in the zona glomerulosa as well as in the zona fasciculata is of obvious interest. The probability of a relationship between the activity of the different cortical zones and the predominant presence of one form of mitochondria has been suggested. In addition, ultrastructural transformations following stress situations as well as problems dealing with the so-called 'dark and light cells' and the basal membrane are discussed.", "PMID": 442953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5821", "title": "Mechanical structure and function of the craniofacial skeleton of the domestic dog.", "content": "Masticatory habit is a major factor determining the morphology of the craniofacial skeleton. The craniofacial skeleton essentially comprises a series of bony stress-bearing bridges forming a structural framework. The structural framework of the skull of dog has been described as a rigid trestle-like structure; it can be illustrated by mechanically removing nonresistant areas of bone. It is then found that a framework is produced which is partially rigid (cranium) and partly flexible (rostrum). It is postulated that the flexibility of the rostrum acts to absorb shock and it is suggested that the primate postorbital bar is developed in response to craniofacial morphology which increases compressive bite forces.", "contents": "Mechanical structure and function of the craniofacial skeleton of the domestic dog. Masticatory habit is a major factor determining the morphology of the craniofacial skeleton. The craniofacial skeleton essentially comprises a series of bony stress-bearing bridges forming a structural framework. The structural framework of the skull of dog has been described as a rigid trestle-like structure; it can be illustrated by mechanically removing nonresistant areas of bone. It is then found that a framework is produced which is partially rigid (cranium) and partly flexible (rostrum). It is postulated that the flexibility of the rostrum acts to absorb shock and it is suggested that the primate postorbital bar is developed in response to craniofacial morphology which increases compressive bite forces.", "PMID": 442954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5822", "title": "[Electron microscopic study of the effect of colchicine on limb bud cartilage in organ culture (mouse embryos)].", "content": "Limb buds of 11-day-old mouse embryos were cultured. On day 5, 0.1 mM colchicine was added for 3, 6, 12 or 24 h in vitro. 3 or 6 h after application of colchicine, electron-dense granula appear to an increasing extent. These granula can be interpreted as collagen-containing secretion granula and as an indication of a secretion inhibition. The peripheral localization of the granula groups speaks for an effect on the actual discharge of the secretion after having passed the Golgi apparatus. Additional effects of colchicine are fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus and an increased occurrence of bundles of fine filaments. Since only few microtubuli occur in the periphery of the chondroblasts and recent studies indicate an influence of colchicine not only on the microtubule system, a site of action at the functional unity 'cell membrane-microfilaments' is discussed. 12 or 24 h after colchicine application, the contents of the congested secretion granula change. The occurrence of cross-striated structures indicates an activity of procollagen peptidase in the granula in the case of secretion inhibition. In addition, cytolysosomes (autophagic vacuoles) develop. The occurrence of polymorphism of the granula contents under these conditions is attributed to an effect of lysosomal enzymes.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic study of the effect of colchicine on limb bud cartilage in organ culture (mouse embryos)]. Limb buds of 11-day-old mouse embryos were cultured. On day 5, 0.1 mM colchicine was added for 3, 6, 12 or 24 h in vitro. 3 or 6 h after application of colchicine, electron-dense granula appear to an increasing extent. These granula can be interpreted as collagen-containing secretion granula and as an indication of a secretion inhibition. The peripheral localization of the granula groups speaks for an effect on the actual discharge of the secretion after having passed the Golgi apparatus. Additional effects of colchicine are fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus and an increased occurrence of bundles of fine filaments. Since only few microtubuli occur in the periphery of the chondroblasts and recent studies indicate an influence of colchicine not only on the microtubule system, a site of action at the functional unity 'cell membrane-microfilaments' is discussed. 12 or 24 h after colchicine application, the contents of the congested secretion granula change. The occurrence of cross-striated structures indicates an activity of procollagen peptidase in the granula in the case of secretion inhibition. In addition, cytolysosomes (autophagic vacuoles) develop. The occurrence of polymorphism of the granula contents under these conditions is attributed to an effect of lysosomal enzymes.", "PMID": 442955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5823", "title": "Increased coronary collateral blood flow. A possible mechanism of action for betahistine-HCl.", "content": "beta-Histine-HCl has been shown to be effective in modifying the size of developing myocardial infarcts. In the present study the hypothesis that beta-histine increases the flow of blood through collateral channels and thus supplies blood to ligated areas of the myocardium was investigated in the dog. The methods used were measurement of retrograde coronary blood flow and angiography after coronary artery ligation. beta-Histine administration for 6 h increased retrograde blood flow 68.2--91.0% over controls. Coronary angiography demonstrated the existence of collateral channels 200--400 micrometer in diameter within the myocardium after ligation and 4 h of beta-histine administration.", "contents": "Increased coronary collateral blood flow. A possible mechanism of action for betahistine-HCl. beta-Histine-HCl has been shown to be effective in modifying the size of developing myocardial infarcts. In the present study the hypothesis that beta-histine increases the flow of blood through collateral channels and thus supplies blood to ligated areas of the myocardium was investigated in the dog. The methods used were measurement of retrograde coronary blood flow and angiography after coronary artery ligation. beta-Histine administration for 6 h increased retrograde blood flow 68.2--91.0% over controls. Coronary angiography demonstrated the existence of collateral channels 200--400 micrometer in diameter within the myocardium after ligation and 4 h of beta-histine administration.", "PMID": 442956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5824", "title": "Histochemical analysis of mucosubstances and cytochemical studies of the Golgi region and the secretory granules of the normal gerbil gallbladder principal cells.", "content": "The mucosubstances of the gallbladder epithelium of the Mongolian gerbil have been analyzed histochemically. The results indicated that they are composed of carboxylated and sulfated glycoproteins. A closer study of the principal cell structure with ultrastructural and cytochemical technique localized the glycoproteins to the glycocalyx, lysosomes, Golgi complexes, immature and mature secretory granules and basement membrane. Acid phosphatase activity was found in the lysosomes, immature granules and the irregular cisternae of the internal region of the Golgi apparatus. It is suggested that the acid-phosphatase-containing internal Golgi membranes may correspond to the GERL (Golgi-endoplasmic reticulumlysosomes).", "contents": "Histochemical analysis of mucosubstances and cytochemical studies of the Golgi region and the secretory granules of the normal gerbil gallbladder principal cells. The mucosubstances of the gallbladder epithelium of the Mongolian gerbil have been analyzed histochemically. The results indicated that they are composed of carboxylated and sulfated glycoproteins. A closer study of the principal cell structure with ultrastructural and cytochemical technique localized the glycoproteins to the glycocalyx, lysosomes, Golgi complexes, immature and mature secretory granules and basement membrane. Acid phosphatase activity was found in the lysosomes, immature granules and the irregular cisternae of the internal region of the Golgi apparatus. It is suggested that the acid-phosphatase-containing internal Golgi membranes may correspond to the GERL (Golgi-endoplasmic reticulumlysosomes).", "PMID": 442957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5825", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the secretory parenchyma of the postanal gland of the coelacanth, Latimeria chalumnae Smith].", "content": "Latimeria chalumnae Smith, the only surviving crossopterygian, possesses a well-developed, unpaired, postanal gland whose function is as yet undocumented. The availability of tissues suitable for ultrastructural and histochemical studies from the recent International Comores Expedition has permitted a reappraisal of the comparative morphology and functional hypotheses relating to the postanal gland. The richly vascularized tubuloacinar postanal gland is composed of cells which show the characteristic specializations of active ion transport. These include complex and extensive development of basal and lateral cell membrane infolding (cisternae) which are closely associated with numerous large, dense mitochondria. Histochemical studies have shown a high level of ATPase activity within the gland cells. These features of the postanal gland correlate well with those of the rectal glands of elasmobranchs and suggest a similar role in ion excretion and osmoregulation.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the secretory parenchyma of the postanal gland of the coelacanth, Latimeria chalumnae Smith]. Latimeria chalumnae Smith, the only surviving crossopterygian, possesses a well-developed, unpaired, postanal gland whose function is as yet undocumented. The availability of tissues suitable for ultrastructural and histochemical studies from the recent International Comores Expedition has permitted a reappraisal of the comparative morphology and functional hypotheses relating to the postanal gland. The richly vascularized tubuloacinar postanal gland is composed of cells which show the characteristic specializations of active ion transport. These include complex and extensive development of basal and lateral cell membrane infolding (cisternae) which are closely associated with numerous large, dense mitochondria. Histochemical studies have shown a high level of ATPase activity within the gland cells. These features of the postanal gland correlate well with those of the rectal glands of elasmobranchs and suggest a similar role in ion excretion and osmoregulation.", "PMID": 442958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5826", "title": "Evolution of the pineal gland in the adult chicken.", "content": "The structural pattern of the pineal gland in the hen corresponds to a more advanced stage of the evolution which began in an early period of the animal's life. This evolution corresponds mainly to the transformation of the large follicular cavities into cellular 'rosettes'. The parafollicular layer disappears from the rosette wall which thus remains with only one row of cells (A and B pinealocytes). The cellular hypertrophy and the great development of the pinealocyte organelles in the adult pineal gland makes us think of this gland as a functionally active organ. This functional activity must have remained during the entire period of the time studied (1--5 years), due to the ultrastructural uniformity found and due to the fact that we could not observe any type of degenerative process in the gland.", "contents": "Evolution of the pineal gland in the adult chicken. The structural pattern of the pineal gland in the hen corresponds to a more advanced stage of the evolution which began in an early period of the animal's life. This evolution corresponds mainly to the transformation of the large follicular cavities into cellular 'rosettes'. The parafollicular layer disappears from the rosette wall which thus remains with only one row of cells (A and B pinealocytes). The cellular hypertrophy and the great development of the pinealocyte organelles in the adult pineal gland makes us think of this gland as a functionally active organ. This functional activity must have remained during the entire period of the time studied (1--5 years), due to the ultrastructural uniformity found and due to the fact that we could not observe any type of degenerative process in the gland.", "PMID": 442959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5827", "title": "Vascular supply of the testis of the camel (Camelus dromedarius).", "content": "The origin, pattern of distribution and the length of the convoluted part of the testicular artery were examined by blunt dissection and by the preparation of arterial casts with vinylite. The testicular artery originates from the abdominal aorta just cranial to its bifurcation and forms compact coils and reveals a tortuous course in the region of the pampiniform plexus and along the attached border. The artery divides at the caudal extremity of the testis into 2--4 branches. The epididymal artery, which is a branch of the testicular artery, was seen to anastomose with the deferential artery, but no anastomosis occurs between these arteries and the testicular artery. The convoluted part of the testicular artery was 20 cm in length, but when unravelled totalled 240 cm. This is not affected by seasonal variations. The possible significance of these results was discussed and compared with similar findings of other mammals.", "contents": "Vascular supply of the testis of the camel (Camelus dromedarius). The origin, pattern of distribution and the length of the convoluted part of the testicular artery were examined by blunt dissection and by the preparation of arterial casts with vinylite. The testicular artery originates from the abdominal aorta just cranial to its bifurcation and forms compact coils and reveals a tortuous course in the region of the pampiniform plexus and along the attached border. The artery divides at the caudal extremity of the testis into 2--4 branches. The epididymal artery, which is a branch of the testicular artery, was seen to anastomose with the deferential artery, but no anastomosis occurs between these arteries and the testicular artery. The convoluted part of the testicular artery was 20 cm in length, but when unravelled totalled 240 cm. This is not affected by seasonal variations. The possible significance of these results was discussed and compared with similar findings of other mammals.", "PMID": 442960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5828", "title": "[Transformation of the rete ovarii into a rete testis and the epoophoron into an epididymis after experimental sex reversal in Gallus domesticus].", "content": "Transformation of the rete ovarii into a rete testis and of the epoophoron into an epididymis after experimental sex reversal in Gallus domesticus is described. After castration of female chicks, the medulla of the left ovary and/or the right gonadal rudiment develop into a testoid or an ovotestis. From general view, this is observed as sex reversal. In case of formation of a testoid, the epoophoron develops into an epididymis and the rete ovarii develops into a rete testis which consists of intra- and extratesticular and intracapsular parts. Thus, a luminated duct system is developed which allows the transport of semen. In case of formation of an ovotestis, the discontinuously side-by-side located parts of the rete ovarii and of the epoophoron are maintained.", "contents": "[Transformation of the rete ovarii into a rete testis and the epoophoron into an epididymis after experimental sex reversal in Gallus domesticus]. Transformation of the rete ovarii into a rete testis and of the epoophoron into an epididymis after experimental sex reversal in Gallus domesticus is described. After castration of female chicks, the medulla of the left ovary and/or the right gonadal rudiment develop into a testoid or an ovotestis. From general view, this is observed as sex reversal. In case of formation of a testoid, the epoophoron develops into an epididymis and the rete ovarii develops into a rete testis which consists of intra- and extratesticular and intracapsular parts. Thus, a luminated duct system is developed which allows the transport of semen. In case of formation of an ovotestis, the discontinuously side-by-side located parts of the rete ovarii and of the epoophoron are maintained.", "PMID": 442961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5829", "title": "[The effect of subtotal vagotomy of the plexus myentericus (Auerbach) on the function of the intramural nervous system. A quantitative histochemical examination in white laboratory mice].", "content": "The effect of a subtotal vagotomy on the function of the intramural nervous system of different parts of the intestinal tract is studied by means of quantitative measurements of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. By sham vagotomy it was possible to explore the effect of narcosis and laparotomy on the intramural nervous system of the intestine. Vagotomy is followed by a decrease in AChE activity of the ganglionic cells in all parts of the intestinal tract. A minimum of activity, about 50% of the normal concentration, is attained at the 16th postoperative day. After this time, a continual increase in AChE activity, along with a reactivation of the function of the ganglionic cells, can be observed. 90 days after vagotomy the ganglionic cells of the intramural nervous plexus show a normal enzyme activity. These results support the hypothesis that most of the cells of the myenteric plexus build up an autonomic nervous plexus, which is stimulated in an excitatory way by the vagus nerve and which will be inhibited by sympathetic stimulation.", "contents": "[The effect of subtotal vagotomy of the plexus myentericus (Auerbach) on the function of the intramural nervous system. A quantitative histochemical examination in white laboratory mice]. The effect of a subtotal vagotomy on the function of the intramural nervous system of different parts of the intestinal tract is studied by means of quantitative measurements of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. By sham vagotomy it was possible to explore the effect of narcosis and laparotomy on the intramural nervous system of the intestine. Vagotomy is followed by a decrease in AChE activity of the ganglionic cells in all parts of the intestinal tract. A minimum of activity, about 50% of the normal concentration, is attained at the 16th postoperative day. After this time, a continual increase in AChE activity, along with a reactivation of the function of the ganglionic cells, can be observed. 90 days after vagotomy the ganglionic cells of the intramural nervous plexus show a normal enzyme activity. These results support the hypothesis that most of the cells of the myenteric plexus build up an autonomic nervous plexus, which is stimulated in an excitatory way by the vagus nerve and which will be inhibited by sympathetic stimulation.", "PMID": 442962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5830", "title": "Evolution and nature of the dense bodies in the chicken pinealocytes.", "content": "The acid phosphatase reaction, applied to light and electron microscopy, was studied in the chicken pineal gland from the moment of hatching until 2 months of age. From the moment of hatching there is a great amount of acid phosphatase, which is mainly found in the vicinity of the lumen of both the recess and large follicles. Acid phosphatase is poor in the parafollicular layer. From day 30 onwards, there is an obvious fragmentation of the recess and of large follicles. Also, the parafollicular layer differentiates to form new follicles. The dense polymorphous bodies of the B pinealocytes are ultrastructurally identified as lysosomes.", "contents": "Evolution and nature of the dense bodies in the chicken pinealocytes. The acid phosphatase reaction, applied to light and electron microscopy, was studied in the chicken pineal gland from the moment of hatching until 2 months of age. From the moment of hatching there is a great amount of acid phosphatase, which is mainly found in the vicinity of the lumen of both the recess and large follicles. Acid phosphatase is poor in the parafollicular layer. From day 30 onwards, there is an obvious fragmentation of the recess and of large follicles. Also, the parafollicular layer differentiates to form new follicles. The dense polymorphous bodies of the B pinealocytes are ultrastructurally identified as lysosomes.", "PMID": 442963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5831", "title": "[Pelvic visceral arteries of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)].", "content": "40 pelvic preparations of rabbits (oryctolagus cuniculus) were bilaterally studied by dissection under the stereomicroscope and angiography. The arterial pattern of the pelvis, i.e. origin and branching of the umbilical, urogenital and internal pudendal arteries (visceral branches), is described. The main characteristics observed are as follows: (1) The umbilical artery is permeable in adults and gives origin to the cranial vesical artery and a caudal branch that irrigates the pelvic urogenital organs and, eventually, the rectum, with six patterns of branching in both sexes. (2) Usually, the urogenital artery is the continuation of the visceral branch of the internal iliac artery. In 1 animal, unilaterally, it arises from the median sacral artery. In 12 animals (6 bilaterally and 6 unilaterally) the urogenital artery is absent. When present, it forms two branches, a cranial and a caudal one, that irrigate of the urogenital organs in both sexes. (3) The internal pudendal artery is the direct continuation of the internal iliac artery and gives to rise to some visceral branches that irrigate the penis, bulbourethral gland and rectum (with six patterns of branching) in males, and the vagina, clitoris and rectum (with three patterns of branching) in females.", "contents": "[Pelvic visceral arteries of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)]. 40 pelvic preparations of rabbits (oryctolagus cuniculus) were bilaterally studied by dissection under the stereomicroscope and angiography. The arterial pattern of the pelvis, i.e. origin and branching of the umbilical, urogenital and internal pudendal arteries (visceral branches), is described. The main characteristics observed are as follows: (1) The umbilical artery is permeable in adults and gives origin to the cranial vesical artery and a caudal branch that irrigates the pelvic urogenital organs and, eventually, the rectum, with six patterns of branching in both sexes. (2) Usually, the urogenital artery is the continuation of the visceral branch of the internal iliac artery. In 1 animal, unilaterally, it arises from the median sacral artery. In 12 animals (6 bilaterally and 6 unilaterally) the urogenital artery is absent. When present, it forms two branches, a cranial and a caudal one, that irrigate of the urogenital organs in both sexes. (3) The internal pudendal artery is the direct continuation of the internal iliac artery and gives to rise to some visceral branches that irrigate the penis, bulbourethral gland and rectum (with six patterns of branching) in males, and the vagina, clitoris and rectum (with three patterns of branching) in females.", "PMID": 442964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5832", "title": "Gross anatomy of the arterial supply of the stomach of the North American beaver (Castor canadensis).", "content": "The arterial pattern of the stomach of the North American beaver is studied by dissection of height specimens. The arrangement of the arteries resembles the typical mammalian pattern, although some variations are described. For example, the celiac artery gives off two large vessels, the cardiac and fundic arteries, which supply the corresponding regions of the stomach. Also, the right gastric artery originates from the gastroduodenal vessel instead of the hepatic artery.", "contents": "Gross anatomy of the arterial supply of the stomach of the North American beaver (Castor canadensis). The arterial pattern of the stomach of the North American beaver is studied by dissection of height specimens. The arrangement of the arteries resembles the typical mammalian pattern, although some variations are described. For example, the celiac artery gives off two large vessels, the cardiac and fundic arteries, which supply the corresponding regions of the stomach. Also, the right gastric artery originates from the gastroduodenal vessel instead of the hepatic artery.", "PMID": 442965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5833", "title": "The initial development of the human brain.", "content": "An account of the early development of the human brain has been prepared from the data available for the Carnegie Collection, as well as from published information from other sources. Although the site of the neural plate can be discerned at stage 7, the first visible indication of the nervous system is the neural groove in certain embryos of stage 8, in which the embryonic disc measures more than 1 mm and the notochordal process at least 0.3 mm. The progressive fusion of the neural folds during stage 10, and the closure of the rostral and caudal neuropores at stages 11 and 12, respectively, are detailed with further precision than hitherto. It is emphasized that the major subdivisions of the human brain do not begin as vesicles, but as enlargements of the open neural folds at stage 9. The relationships of the neuromeres to the otic region, the somites, and the neural crest are clarified and illustrated. The early appearance of the telencephalon medium (before cerebral vesicles have formed) is stressed, and the terminological implications for the subdivisions of the brain are discussed.", "contents": "The initial development of the human brain. An account of the early development of the human brain has been prepared from the data available for the Carnegie Collection, as well as from published information from other sources. Although the site of the neural plate can be discerned at stage 7, the first visible indication of the nervous system is the neural groove in certain embryos of stage 8, in which the embryonic disc measures more than 1 mm and the notochordal process at least 0.3 mm. The progressive fusion of the neural folds during stage 10, and the closure of the rostral and caudal neuropores at stages 11 and 12, respectively, are detailed with further precision than hitherto. It is emphasized that the major subdivisions of the human brain do not begin as vesicles, but as enlargements of the open neural folds at stage 9. The relationships of the neuromeres to the otic region, the somites, and the neural crest are clarified and illustrated. The early appearance of the telencephalon medium (before cerebral vesicles have formed) is stressed, and the terminological implications for the subdivisions of the brain are discussed.", "PMID": 442966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5834", "title": "The mast cells of the mammalian central nervous system. III. Ultrastructural characteristics in the adult rat brain.", "content": "The brains of young adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were studied with the electron microscope to determine the full ultrastructural picture of two types of perivascular granular cell. One of these, referred to here as the type I cell and described by both light and electron microscopy by several authors, including ourselves, has been reported to be a mast cell (MC) almost identical to MCs outside the CNS. The other, referred to here as the type II cell and described by many authors under almost as many names, was dealt with fully by Ibrahim in several reports and regarded by him as a type of MC. It is felt that the results warrant the conclusions that the type I cells are indeed MCs, while the type II cells are closely allied to the type I cells and probably better adapted to the function they subserve in the CNS of mammals. The similarities between the two cell types probably outnumber the dissimilarities and even these have their counterparts in MCs outside the CNS. The problem of the possible confusion between the type II cells and macrophages, whether reportedly within vessel walls or in the form of modified or special 'pericytic' microglia, is discussed. It is concluded that there is no justification for regarding these cells as macrophages. Because of the similarity between the type II cells and MCs, and because of the high lipid content of the type II cells, it is suggested that these elements be called neurolipomastocytes or neurolipomastocytoid cells.", "contents": "The mast cells of the mammalian central nervous system. III. Ultrastructural characteristics in the adult rat brain. The brains of young adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were studied with the electron microscope to determine the full ultrastructural picture of two types of perivascular granular cell. One of these, referred to here as the type I cell and described by both light and electron microscopy by several authors, including ourselves, has been reported to be a mast cell (MC) almost identical to MCs outside the CNS. The other, referred to here as the type II cell and described by many authors under almost as many names, was dealt with fully by Ibrahim in several reports and regarded by him as a type of MC. It is felt that the results warrant the conclusions that the type I cells are indeed MCs, while the type II cells are closely allied to the type I cells and probably better adapted to the function they subserve in the CNS of mammals. The similarities between the two cell types probably outnumber the dissimilarities and even these have their counterparts in MCs outside the CNS. The problem of the possible confusion between the type II cells and macrophages, whether reportedly within vessel walls or in the form of modified or special 'pericytic' microglia, is discussed. It is concluded that there is no justification for regarding these cells as macrophages. Because of the similarity between the type II cells and MCs, and because of the high lipid content of the type II cells, it is suggested that these elements be called neurolipomastocytes or neurolipomastocytoid cells.", "PMID": 442967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5835", "title": "Adaptive differences of the surface organization of horny cells.", "content": "The existence of a peculiar structural pattern of complementary villi and pores was observed on the squamous surfaces of palms and soles. These features, which might be considered as acquired and adaptive cell surface modifications, proved to be more conspicuous during a period of rat and human postnatal development.", "contents": "Adaptive differences of the surface organization of horny cells. The existence of a peculiar structural pattern of complementary villi and pores was observed on the squamous surfaces of palms and soles. These features, which might be considered as acquired and adaptive cell surface modifications, proved to be more conspicuous during a period of rat and human postnatal development.", "PMID": 442968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5836", "title": "Vascularity at sites of gastro-jejunal anastomoses.", "content": "Recent interest in vascularity in relation to peptic ulceration poses the question of relationship between three entities: (1) site of gastro-jejunal (post-anastomotic) ulcer, (2) site of the anastomotic line and (3) site of junction and possible vascular anastomosis between gastric and jejunal circulations in the region of the anastomosis. Vascular injection studies in dogs show that the main gastric and jejunal circulations run up to, but do not communicate across, the surgical anastomosis, there being a line of least vascularity at the anastomosis. Since anastomotic ulcers occur distal to the anastomotic line, this supports the view that such ulcers are situated wholly in an area of jejunal circulation.", "contents": "Vascularity at sites of gastro-jejunal anastomoses. Recent interest in vascularity in relation to peptic ulceration poses the question of relationship between three entities: (1) site of gastro-jejunal (post-anastomotic) ulcer, (2) site of the anastomotic line and (3) site of junction and possible vascular anastomosis between gastric and jejunal circulations in the region of the anastomosis. Vascular injection studies in dogs show that the main gastric and jejunal circulations run up to, but do not communicate across, the surgical anastomosis, there being a line of least vascularity at the anastomosis. Since anastomotic ulcers occur distal to the anastomotic line, this supports the view that such ulcers are situated wholly in an area of jejunal circulation.", "PMID": 442969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5837", "title": "Histological observations on the testis of the camel, with special emphasis on spermatogenesis.", "content": "A histological study of the testis of the camel has been carried out; this includes the description of the different cell types of the testis, stages and frequency of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The testis is characterized by the presence of abundant Leydig cells found in large masses in the intertubular areas and in the mediastinum. The cycle of the seminiferous epithelium was divided into eight stages (I-VIII) according to the method of Ortavant. The frequency of the stages I-VIII of the cycle is not affected by season and was found as follows: I:21.93%; II: 11.07%; III: 13.42%; IV: 8,24%; V: 10.32%; VI: 9.34%; VII: 9,25%; VIII: 16.43%.", "contents": "Histological observations on the testis of the camel, with special emphasis on spermatogenesis. A histological study of the testis of the camel has been carried out; this includes the description of the different cell types of the testis, stages and frequency of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The testis is characterized by the presence of abundant Leydig cells found in large masses in the intertubular areas and in the mediastinum. The cycle of the seminiferous epithelium was divided into eight stages (I-VIII) according to the method of Ortavant. The frequency of the stages I-VIII of the cycle is not affected by season and was found as follows: I:21.93%; II: 11.07%; III: 13.42%; IV: 8,24%; V: 10.32%; VI: 9.34%; VII: 9,25%; VIII: 16.43%.", "PMID": 442970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5838", "title": "Ultrastructure of chick tendon fibroblast with special reference to secretory mechanism.", "content": "Electron-microscope study of chick tendon fibroblast revealed a constant ultrastructural finding of a microtubular-microfibrillar system and an intimate relationship which existed between the microtubular-microfibrillar system and secretory vacuoles. Additionally, the data from this study suggest a mechanism by which newly synthesized collagen molecules are transported and secreted into the extracellular space to be organized into mature collagen.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of chick tendon fibroblast with special reference to secretory mechanism. Electron-microscope study of chick tendon fibroblast revealed a constant ultrastructural finding of a microtubular-microfibrillar system and an intimate relationship which existed between the microtubular-microfibrillar system and secretory vacuoles. Additionally, the data from this study suggest a mechanism by which newly synthesized collagen molecules are transported and secreted into the extracellular space to be organized into mature collagen.", "PMID": 442971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5839", "title": "[Ethmoidal arteries: origin, course, regions supplied and anastomoses].", "content": "The origin, course and regions supplied by the ethmoidal arteries were studied on 30 injected adult heads. After branching off, the anterior ethmoidal artery normally makes a single smooth loop by first coursing forwards and then, reversing itself towards the anterior ethmoidal foramen, it goes into the canal portion, likewise without bend or angularity. Occasionally, a common ethmoidal artery or a common source for the ethmoidal arteries is present. Very rarely does the artery fail entirely. As a rule, the posterior ethmoidal artery arises from the ophthalmic artery. Occasionally, however, it is missing or can even very rarely arise from the A. meningea media. The artery usually crosses over the superior oblique muscle while the anterior ethmoidal artery usually goes under the same muscle. In the fossa olfactoria, the ethmoidal arteries give off their most important dura and bone branches in the anterior cranial fossa and then continue into the walls of the cavum nasi. The courses and variations along with ipsi- and contralateral anastomoses are likewise demonstrated.", "contents": "[Ethmoidal arteries: origin, course, regions supplied and anastomoses]. The origin, course and regions supplied by the ethmoidal arteries were studied on 30 injected adult heads. After branching off, the anterior ethmoidal artery normally makes a single smooth loop by first coursing forwards and then, reversing itself towards the anterior ethmoidal foramen, it goes into the canal portion, likewise without bend or angularity. Occasionally, a common ethmoidal artery or a common source for the ethmoidal arteries is present. Very rarely does the artery fail entirely. As a rule, the posterior ethmoidal artery arises from the ophthalmic artery. Occasionally, however, it is missing or can even very rarely arise from the A. meningea media. The artery usually crosses over the superior oblique muscle while the anterior ethmoidal artery usually goes under the same muscle. In the fossa olfactoria, the ethmoidal arteries give off their most important dura and bone branches in the anterior cranial fossa and then continue into the walls of the cavum nasi. The courses and variations along with ipsi- and contralateral anastomoses are likewise demonstrated.", "PMID": 442972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5840", "title": "[The retro-articular process or the retro-mandibular process of the human skull].", "content": "The frequency, morphology, symmetry and asymmetry of the retro-articular process of the human temporal bone are studied in 811 adult skulls, being 386 from whites (301 men and 85 women), 245 from Negroes (137 men and 108 women), 138 from mulattoes (94 men and 44 women) and 42 from Japanese (31 men and 11 women). In 1,591 out of the 1,622 observations there was an evident retro-articular process. It was classified according to its shape as mammillary, pyramidal, tubercular, crest-like or molar. Furthermore, in each one of these above referred types the process showed to be large, middle or small in size. The author states that in 98.4% of the skulls studied an evident retro-articular process could be observed; it was symmetrical in 790 cases, asymmetrical in 713 cases. These results are against the literature on the subject because it has been stated that in the present-day man the retro-articular process is very rare and, when present, usually very small.", "contents": "[The retro-articular process or the retro-mandibular process of the human skull]. The frequency, morphology, symmetry and asymmetry of the retro-articular process of the human temporal bone are studied in 811 adult skulls, being 386 from whites (301 men and 85 women), 245 from Negroes (137 men and 108 women), 138 from mulattoes (94 men and 44 women) and 42 from Japanese (31 men and 11 women). In 1,591 out of the 1,622 observations there was an evident retro-articular process. It was classified according to its shape as mammillary, pyramidal, tubercular, crest-like or molar. Furthermore, in each one of these above referred types the process showed to be large, middle or small in size. The author states that in 98.4% of the skulls studied an evident retro-articular process could be observed; it was symmetrical in 790 cases, asymmetrical in 713 cases. These results are against the literature on the subject because it has been stated that in the present-day man the retro-articular process is very rare and, when present, usually very small.", "PMID": 442973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5841", "title": "Neuronal degeneration and regeneration in the olfactory epithelium of pigeon following transection of the first cranial nerve.", "content": "The pigeon olfactory nerve has been sectioned to explore the course of retrograde degeneration of the sensory neurons' perikarya, which are located in the olfactory neuroepithelium. Both light- and electron-microscopic observations have shown that from 3 to 8 days after axotomy the sensory neurons undergo retrograde, irreversible degeneration. Following disappearance of the mature neurons, the basal cells of the neuroepithelium actively divide and differentiate into mature olfactory sensory neurons. Consequently, the basal cells represent true stem cells of the olfactory sensory neurons. The olfactory mucosa regains a structural organization close to normal in a period of 30-50 days after axotomy. These observations indicate that, when the primary olfactory neurons degenerate as a consequence of the experimental section of their axons, restitutio ad integrum of the sensory olfactory connections can be reestablished by new elements which differentiate from basal cells of the olfactory neuroepithelium.20", "contents": "Neuronal degeneration and regeneration in the olfactory epithelium of pigeon following transection of the first cranial nerve. The pigeon olfactory nerve has been sectioned to explore the course of retrograde degeneration of the sensory neurons' perikarya, which are located in the olfactory neuroepithelium. Both light- and electron-microscopic observations have shown that from 3 to 8 days after axotomy the sensory neurons undergo retrograde, irreversible degeneration. Following disappearance of the mature neurons, the basal cells of the neuroepithelium actively divide and differentiate into mature olfactory sensory neurons. Consequently, the basal cells represent true stem cells of the olfactory sensory neurons. The olfactory mucosa regains a structural organization close to normal in a period of 30-50 days after axotomy. These observations indicate that, when the primary olfactory neurons degenerate as a consequence of the experimental section of their axons, restitutio ad integrum of the sensory olfactory connections can be reestablished by new elements which differentiate from basal cells of the olfactory neuroepithelium.20", "PMID": 442974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5842", "title": "Study on the innervation of the pancreas of the rat.", "content": "The pancreas of the adult rat is examined by the silver impregnation method. The intrapancreatic nerves form the following three plexuses: periacinous, periinsular and perivascular; anastomosing fibers are presented between the three plexuses. Sympathetic ganglia as well as parasympathetic nerve cells are met with in association and in close proximity to the islet tissue. The significance of the double innervation of the islet tissue is discussed.", "contents": "Study on the innervation of the pancreas of the rat. The pancreas of the adult rat is examined by the silver impregnation method. The intrapancreatic nerves form the following three plexuses: periacinous, periinsular and perivascular; anastomosing fibers are presented between the three plexuses. Sympathetic ganglia as well as parasympathetic nerve cells are met with in association and in close proximity to the islet tissue. The significance of the double innervation of the islet tissue is discussed.", "PMID": 442975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5843", "title": "The development of experimental brain tumours. A sequential light and electron microscope study of the subependymal plate. I. Early lesions (abnormal cell clusters).", "content": "Pregnant BD-IX rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) per kg of body weight on the 15th day of gestation. The offspring were killed at fortnightly intervals between 2 and 20 weeks of age. The subependymal plate region adjacent to the lateral ventricles was examined by light and electron microscopy to study the early stages in the development of brain tumours. Abnormal clusters of undifferentiated subpendymal plate cells were found in regions away from the plate from 8 weeks of age onwards. In addition focal cellular hyperplasia within the subependymal plate was also seen. These clusters, which often occurred around neurones and blood vessels, were thought to represent the earliest, morphologically detectable changes in the development of cerebral gliomas.", "contents": "The development of experimental brain tumours. A sequential light and electron microscope study of the subependymal plate. I. Early lesions (abnormal cell clusters). Pregnant BD-IX rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) per kg of body weight on the 15th day of gestation. The offspring were killed at fortnightly intervals between 2 and 20 weeks of age. The subependymal plate region adjacent to the lateral ventricles was examined by light and electron microscopy to study the early stages in the development of brain tumours. Abnormal clusters of undifferentiated subpendymal plate cells were found in regions away from the plate from 8 weeks of age onwards. In addition focal cellular hyperplasia within the subependymal plate was also seen. These clusters, which often occurred around neurones and blood vessels, were thought to represent the earliest, morphologically detectable changes in the development of cerebral gliomas.", "PMID": 442982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5844", "title": "The development of experimental brain tumours a sequential light and electron microscope study of the subependymal plate. II. Microtumours.", "content": "Pregnant BD-IX rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) per kg of body weight on the 15th day of gestation. The offspring were killed at fortnightly intervals between 2 and 20 weeks of age. The subependymal plate region adjacent to the lateral ventricles was examined by light and electron microscopy to study the early stages in the development of brain tumours. Microtumours, composed of subependymal plate cells, glioblasts and various glial cells at different stages of maturation, were found in 16-, 18-, and 20-week-old rats. The most common site for microtumours was the angle of the lateral ventricles between the corpus callosum and caudate nucleus; others were located at the lateral aspect of the ventricles. It is suggested that most, if not all, cerebral gliomas originate from the undifferentiated cells of the subependymal plate: these mitotically active stem cells provide a susceptible target for the carcinogenic stimulus. The morphology of the gliomas developed is determined by the diverging processes of differentiation and anaplasia resulting in a pleomorphic cell population. The relevance of this experimental model to the pathogenesis of human gliomas is discussed.", "contents": "The development of experimental brain tumours a sequential light and electron microscope study of the subependymal plate. II. Microtumours. Pregnant BD-IX rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) per kg of body weight on the 15th day of gestation. The offspring were killed at fortnightly intervals between 2 and 20 weeks of age. The subependymal plate region adjacent to the lateral ventricles was examined by light and electron microscopy to study the early stages in the development of brain tumours. Microtumours, composed of subependymal plate cells, glioblasts and various glial cells at different stages of maturation, were found in 16-, 18-, and 20-week-old rats. The most common site for microtumours was the angle of the lateral ventricles between the corpus callosum and caudate nucleus; others were located at the lateral aspect of the ventricles. It is suggested that most, if not all, cerebral gliomas originate from the undifferentiated cells of the subependymal plate: these mitotically active stem cells provide a susceptible target for the carcinogenic stimulus. The morphology of the gliomas developed is determined by the diverging processes of differentiation and anaplasia resulting in a pleomorphic cell population. The relevance of this experimental model to the pathogenesis of human gliomas is discussed.", "PMID": 442983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5845", "title": "Subarachnoid hematoma in staphylococcal septicemia. A report of two cases.", "content": "Two cases of subarachnoid hematoma, due to a Staphylococcus aureus septicemia are described. The clinical as well as the pathological findings suggest a two-step evolution, consisting first in the appearance of a small to moderate stroke, due to a septic embolic occlusion of a leptomeningeal artery and to cerebral infarction, followed by rupture of the artery and the formation of the subarachnoid hematoma, acting as a mass-lesion and leading to death by uncal herniation and brain stem compression. The typical location of the hematoma over the convex surface of a cerebral hemisphere suggests that local factors, such as the vicinity of patent leptomeningeal anastomoses and the fibrosis of the leptomeninges, are probably predisposing factors for its occurrence.", "contents": "Subarachnoid hematoma in staphylococcal septicemia. A report of two cases. Two cases of subarachnoid hematoma, due to a Staphylococcus aureus septicemia are described. The clinical as well as the pathological findings suggest a two-step evolution, consisting first in the appearance of a small to moderate stroke, due to a septic embolic occlusion of a leptomeningeal artery and to cerebral infarction, followed by rupture of the artery and the formation of the subarachnoid hematoma, acting as a mass-lesion and leading to death by uncal herniation and brain stem compression. The typical location of the hematoma over the convex surface of a cerebral hemisphere suggests that local factors, such as the vicinity of patent leptomeningeal anastomoses and the fibrosis of the leptomeninges, are probably predisposing factors for its occurrence.", "PMID": 442979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5846", "title": "Cell origin of human adenovirus type 12-induced subcutaneous tumor in Syrian hamsters.", "content": "Single subcutaneous inoculation of human adenovirus type 12 (Ad.12), 0.05-0.1 ml of 10(8.0) TCID50 HEK cells/0.1 ml, was made on the back of 0-day-old hamsters. In 21 of 25 hamsters (84.0%), multiple solid tumors developed close to the inoculation site within 3 months. No control hamsters developed tumors. Tumor histopathology revealed the characteristic Homer Wright rosettes of neuroblastoma. Ad. 12-specific tumor antigens were demonstrable in both the primary and the cultured tumor cells by the immunofluorescein technique. Histochemical demonstration of cholinesterase and NADH oxidoreductase gave rise to a predominantly positive intracytoplasmic granule within the tumor cells. Electron microscopy showed remarkably uniform cell morphology: small, undifferentiated neuroblastic cells with poorly developed intracytoplasmic organelles; many possessed characteristic solitary cilia in a 9 + 0 tubules pattern. Intercellular junctions were poorly developed. Search for an incipient tumor cell aggregate by means of immunofluorescein T-antigen detection was carried out through a 240-h period following Ad. 12 inoculation. A sequential study in parallel with electron microscopic examination of the normal subcutaneous tissue proved that neuroblastic cells closely associated with the muscle spindle anlage could preferentially become the most sensitive target for Ad. 12 tumorigenesis.", "contents": "Cell origin of human adenovirus type 12-induced subcutaneous tumor in Syrian hamsters. Single subcutaneous inoculation of human adenovirus type 12 (Ad.12), 0.05-0.1 ml of 10(8.0) TCID50 HEK cells/0.1 ml, was made on the back of 0-day-old hamsters. In 21 of 25 hamsters (84.0%), multiple solid tumors developed close to the inoculation site within 3 months. No control hamsters developed tumors. Tumor histopathology revealed the characteristic Homer Wright rosettes of neuroblastoma. Ad. 12-specific tumor antigens were demonstrable in both the primary and the cultured tumor cells by the immunofluorescein technique. Histochemical demonstration of cholinesterase and NADH oxidoreductase gave rise to a predominantly positive intracytoplasmic granule within the tumor cells. Electron microscopy showed remarkably uniform cell morphology: small, undifferentiated neuroblastic cells with poorly developed intracytoplasmic organelles; many possessed characteristic solitary cilia in a 9 + 0 tubules pattern. Intercellular junctions were poorly developed. Search for an incipient tumor cell aggregate by means of immunofluorescein T-antigen detection was carried out through a 240-h period following Ad. 12 inoculation. A sequential study in parallel with electron microscopic examination of the normal subcutaneous tissue proved that neuroblastic cells closely associated with the muscle spindle anlage could preferentially become the most sensitive target for Ad. 12 tumorigenesis.", "PMID": 442984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5847", "title": "[Intensity of spontaneous activity and mean visual evoked response during calculation of variable mean. New technique for measuring retinocortical time (author's transl)].", "content": "Various statistical discrimination indices reveal deflections regarded as significant before the 20th ms after stimulation (probably equivalent to Bickford responses or subcortical activity) and between the 20th and 23rd ms (early fractions of MVER). The independence of signal and noise is discussed. Considerations concerning the calculation of retinocortical time are developed.", "contents": "[Intensity of spontaneous activity and mean visual evoked response during calculation of variable mean. New technique for measuring retinocortical time (author's transl)]. Various statistical discrimination indices reveal deflections regarded as significant before the 20th ms after stimulation (probably equivalent to Bickford responses or subcortical activity) and between the 20th and 23rd ms (early fractions of MVER). The independence of signal and noise is discussed. Considerations concerning the calculation of retinocortical time are developed.", "PMID": 442980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5848", "title": "Quantitative analysis of the size distribution of target- and targetoid fibres employing the method of Daeves and Beckel for mixed distributions.", "content": "An analysis of frequency distribution is performed in 250 target and targetoid fibres each from the anterior tibial muscle of a case with rapidly proceeding denervation atrophy. Following plane measurements on cross sections the size data were analysed according to the method of Daeves and Beckel [1] for mixed distributions. Three homogeneous normally distributed populations could thus be extracted from the mixed distributed sample. The largest population represents target fibres with a normal size range, while the second one encloses hypertrophic fibres, and the third and smallest one consists of fibres ranging within atrophic size limits. These findings support the previous presumption that targets predominantly occur in fibres of normal size and can therefore be regarded as manifestations of an early stage of denervation atrophy. The targetoid fibres, on the contrary, are of an atrophic size by 84%, while only a small population of about 15% contains targetoid fibres of a normal size on cross section.", "contents": "Quantitative analysis of the size distribution of target- and targetoid fibres employing the method of Daeves and Beckel for mixed distributions. An analysis of frequency distribution is performed in 250 target and targetoid fibres each from the anterior tibial muscle of a case with rapidly proceeding denervation atrophy. Following plane measurements on cross sections the size data were analysed according to the method of Daeves and Beckel [1] for mixed distributions. Three homogeneous normally distributed populations could thus be extracted from the mixed distributed sample. The largest population represents target fibres with a normal size range, while the second one encloses hypertrophic fibres, and the third and smallest one consists of fibres ranging within atrophic size limits. These findings support the previous presumption that targets predominantly occur in fibres of normal size and can therefore be regarded as manifestations of an early stage of denervation atrophy. The targetoid fibres, on the contrary, are of an atrophic size by 84%, while only a small population of about 15% contains targetoid fibres of a normal size on cross section.", "PMID": 442986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5849", "title": "[The evolution of motricity after a stroke (author's transl)].", "content": "A hundred and one patients undergoing rehabilitation for hemiplegia due to hemispheric cerebrovascular accident were observed for a period of six months after the accident. Detailed records of the analytical and functional aspects of motricity enabled the extent of the deficiencies and the progress of the patients to be evaluated. The results illustrate certain classic neurological concepts and show how much time is required before significant improvements can be obtained. Progress is more satisfactory with right hemiplegics than with left ones.", "contents": "[The evolution of motricity after a stroke (author's transl)]. A hundred and one patients undergoing rehabilitation for hemiplegia due to hemispheric cerebrovascular accident were observed for a period of six months after the accident. Detailed records of the analytical and functional aspects of motricity enabled the extent of the deficiencies and the progress of the patients to be evaluated. The results illustrate certain classic neurological concepts and show how much time is required before significant improvements can be obtained. Progress is more satisfactory with right hemiplegics than with left ones.", "PMID": 442981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5850", "title": "Production of myelin by neoplastic cells.", "content": "Formation of myelin sheaths by neoplastic cells was found in a spinal ganglioneuroma. All phases of initial myelination were observed including the formation of a mesaxonal spiral and the fusion of its lamellae into a major dense line. A unique aspect of neoplastic myelin formation was the formation of sheaths around bundles of extracellular fibrils rather than axons or cell processes. Formation of myelin sheaths around extracellular material has never been observed before. The findings have implications on the mechanisms controlling initial myelination.", "contents": "Production of myelin by neoplastic cells. Formation of myelin sheaths by neoplastic cells was found in a spinal ganglioneuroma. All phases of initial myelination were observed including the formation of a mesaxonal spiral and the fusion of its lamellae into a major dense line. A unique aspect of neoplastic myelin formation was the formation of sheaths around bundles of extracellular fibrils rather than axons or cell processes. Formation of myelin sheaths around extracellular material has never been observed before. The findings have implications on the mechanisms controlling initial myelination.", "PMID": 442989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5851", "title": "Skin and conjunctival biopsies in infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy.", "content": "The diagnosis of infantile neuro-axonal dystrophy (INAD) in a 5-year-old patient was confirmed by the ultrastructural study of neuromuscular, skin and conjunctival biopsy specimens. Abnormal networks of smooth membranous, lamellar and tubular profiles were found in presynaptic terminals and in conjunctival and dermal axons. INAD is the first neurological disease outside the group of storage disorders in which skin and conjunctival biopsies contribute significiantly to the diagnosis.", "contents": "Skin and conjunctival biopsies in infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy. The diagnosis of infantile neuro-axonal dystrophy (INAD) in a 5-year-old patient was confirmed by the ultrastructural study of neuromuscular, skin and conjunctival biopsy specimens. Abnormal networks of smooth membranous, lamellar and tubular profiles were found in presynaptic terminals and in conjunctival and dermal axons. INAD is the first neurological disease outside the group of storage disorders in which skin and conjunctival biopsies contribute significiantly to the diagnosis.", "PMID": 442990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5852", "title": "Present status and future directions of the Ear Research Institute cochlear implant program.", "content": "Thirty-three adult subjects have been implanted with single-electrode cochlear implants at the Ear Research Institute. This paper outlines the current status of the subjects; the rehabilitation and testing program; results found with the implant; and future directions of the implant program. Results indicate that implant subjects can score significantly above chance on a variety of discrimination tests. Implant subjects also score significantly better than hearing aid subjects on these tests. Research is continuing on engineering and signal-processing improvements for the single-elecrode implant. Multiple-electrode implants and binaural implants are being considered for future research at the Ear Research Institute.", "contents": "Present status and future directions of the Ear Research Institute cochlear implant program. Thirty-three adult subjects have been implanted with single-electrode cochlear implants at the Ear Research Institute. This paper outlines the current status of the subjects; the rehabilitation and testing program; results found with the implant; and future directions of the implant program. Results indicate that implant subjects can score significantly above chance on a variety of discrimination tests. Implant subjects also score significantly better than hearing aid subjects on these tests. Research is continuing on engineering and signal-processing improvements for the single-elecrode implant. Multiple-electrode implants and binaural implants are being considered for future research at the Ear Research Institute.", "PMID": 442997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5853", "title": "Neurophysiological requirements for implanted cochlear prostheses.", "content": "Regarding the neurophysiological requirements for implanted cochlear prostheses, we have discussed (i) the complexity of speech sounds, (ii) problems of intensity, then (iii) the frequency problem, and (iv) finally the possibility of a frequency transposition to the genuine frequency range of a single fibre of any mechanoreceptor and its connecting nerve fibre (less than 1 kHz) for the construction of an intracochlear prosthesis. In general it would seem necessary to seek compromises based on the fact that speech, at least the vowels, contains redundancy and that the use of additional sensory channels might be helpful for cochlear implants. Certainly besides other preprocessing techniques for speech information, the multichannel stimulation set-up of special electrodes has to be used to convey a sufficient amount of speech information to restore the faculty of speech perception in completely deaf patients. Decompression of intensity range and compression of frequency range might be especially useful.", "contents": "Neurophysiological requirements for implanted cochlear prostheses. Regarding the neurophysiological requirements for implanted cochlear prostheses, we have discussed (i) the complexity of speech sounds, (ii) problems of intensity, then (iii) the frequency problem, and (iv) finally the possibility of a frequency transposition to the genuine frequency range of a single fibre of any mechanoreceptor and its connecting nerve fibre (less than 1 kHz) for the construction of an intracochlear prosthesis. In general it would seem necessary to seek compromises based on the fact that speech, at least the vowels, contains redundancy and that the use of additional sensory channels might be helpful for cochlear implants. Certainly besides other preprocessing techniques for speech information, the multichannel stimulation set-up of special electrodes has to be used to convey a sufficient amount of speech information to restore the faculty of speech perception in completely deaf patients. Decompression of intensity range and compression of frequency range might be especially useful.", "PMID": 442995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5854", "title": "Indications and results of the multichannel cochlear implant.", "content": "In the case of total deafness, the multichannel cochlear implant prosthesis constitutes a substantial improvement. It allows known words to be recognized without lip reading, with a great percentage of good responses. Clinical and phoniatric results are reported in 21 cases of patients with implants.", "contents": "Indications and results of the multichannel cochlear implant. In the case of total deafness, the multichannel cochlear implant prosthesis constitutes a substantial improvement. It allows known words to be recognized without lip reading, with a great percentage of good responses. Clinical and phoniatric results are reported in 21 cases of patients with implants.", "PMID": 442998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5855", "title": "Designing of and experience with multichannel cochlear implants.", "content": "The technology of two different multichannel cochlear prosthetic devices is described. The clinical results after electrical stimulation in five implanted patients are discussed.", "contents": "Designing of and experience with multichannel cochlear implants. The technology of two different multichannel cochlear prosthetic devices is described. The clinical results after electrical stimulation in five implanted patients are discussed.", "PMID": 442999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5856", "title": "A functioning multichannel auditory nerve stimulator. A preliminary report on two human volunteers.", "content": "This paper is a brief progress report on our work with two volunteers, each with 4 electrodes placed in his auditory nerve. We are performing stimulation studies to find out if multielectrode stimulation is more effective as a communication aid than single-electrode stimulation, and to gain insights on stimulus coding of environmental sound using sophisticated digital signal processing techniques.", "contents": "A functioning multichannel auditory nerve stimulator. A preliminary report on two human volunteers. This paper is a brief progress report on our work with two volunteers, each with 4 electrodes placed in his auditory nerve. We are performing stimulation studies to find out if multielectrode stimulation is more effective as a communication aid than single-electrode stimulation, and to gain insights on stimulus coding of environmental sound using sophisticated digital signal processing techniques.", "PMID": 442996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5857", "title": "Fundamental considerations in designing auditory implants.", "content": "The usual premise underlying developmental work on cochlear prostheses as prospective cures for profound deafness is that the auditory nerve can be electrically stimulated in such a manner that communicative skills can be developed or maintained. Physiologic recordings from single fibers in the cat's auditory nerve and attempts to model these responses have generated a description of how the auditory nerve codes complex sounds such as speech. This work suggests that certain minimal cues might have to be present at the level of the auditory nerve in order that adequate discrimination of specific speech signals can take place. The prospects for achieving a useful prosthesis in the near future will be evaluated in terms of what can be expected from current attempts to code the artificial stimulation properly.", "contents": "Fundamental considerations in designing auditory implants. The usual premise underlying developmental work on cochlear prostheses as prospective cures for profound deafness is that the auditory nerve can be electrically stimulated in such a manner that communicative skills can be developed or maintained. Physiologic recordings from single fibers in the cat's auditory nerve and attempts to model these responses have generated a description of how the auditory nerve codes complex sounds such as speech. This work suggests that certain minimal cues might have to be present at the level of the auditory nerve in order that adequate discrimination of specific speech signals can take place. The prospects for achieving a useful prosthesis in the near future will be evaluated in terms of what can be expected from current attempts to code the artificial stimulation properly.", "PMID": 443001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5858", "title": "[Physiology of taste].", "content": "The various types of taste papillae, in and on the tongue have been studied, together with its role in discriminating between the basic tastes (sweet, sour, bitter and salt). The importance of the other factors associated with taste is also discussed.", "contents": "[Physiology of taste]. The various types of taste papillae, in and on the tongue have been studied, together with its role in discriminating between the basic tastes (sweet, sour, bitter and salt). The importance of the other factors associated with taste is also discussed.", "PMID": 443002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5859", "title": "Preneural phase of taste.", "content": "The preneural phase of taste has been studied, describing first the pit region of taste buds and its dynamics. The biochemical regulation of the preneural phase is then analyzed, with emphasis on thiol and metal (certain metals) interactions: the first inhibit and the second facilitate. The equilibrium between thiol and metal ions regulates the flux of tastants, probably at the level of the microvilli membrane. The hypothetical role of the pore and dense substance is considered.", "contents": "Preneural phase of taste. The preneural phase of taste has been studied, describing first the pit region of taste buds and its dynamics. The biochemical regulation of the preneural phase is then analyzed, with emphasis on thiol and metal (certain metals) interactions: the first inhibit and the second facilitate. The equilibrium between thiol and metal ions regulates the flux of tastants, probably at the level of the microvilli membrane. The hypothetical role of the pore and dense substance is considered.", "PMID": 443003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5860", "title": "[Standardized examination methods for smell and taste and their clinical value].", "content": "The diagnostic of disturbances of the chemical senses is from a clinical standpoint still insufficient, as the literature of the whole world shows. Ten years of experimental and clinical investigations as well as the collection and evaluation of the experiences at the University ENT-Clinic Halle/S., GDR--have helped to develop some new tests and tools like a big and a small smell-case, two electrogustometers, the documentation by means of olfacto- and gustograms and so on. Now in the whole GDR a special group of ENT-scientists, members of our ENT society, are working on standardisation. The experiences will be official in our country. After the representation of our diagnostic system from to-day, as we are using them in our clinic, we are giving clinical examples as the diagnosis of the cranial nerves, the control of the treatment and so on, which are showing the usefulness of such examinations in smell and taste.", "contents": "[Standardized examination methods for smell and taste and their clinical value]. The diagnostic of disturbances of the chemical senses is from a clinical standpoint still insufficient, as the literature of the whole world shows. Ten years of experimental and clinical investigations as well as the collection and evaluation of the experiences at the University ENT-Clinic Halle/S., GDR--have helped to develop some new tests and tools like a big and a small smell-case, two electrogustometers, the documentation by means of olfacto- and gustograms and so on. Now in the whole GDR a special group of ENT-scientists, members of our ENT society, are working on standardisation. The experiences will be official in our country. After the representation of our diagnostic system from to-day, as we are using them in our clinic, we are giving clinical examples as the diagnosis of the cranial nerves, the control of the treatment and so on, which are showing the usefulness of such examinations in smell and taste.", "PMID": 443005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5861", "title": "Occupational hearing loss. The significance of asymmetrical hearing thresholds.", "content": "In 1873 consecutive patients referred for compensation assessment for presumed industrial hearing loss, 281 (15%) had an average difference in hearing threshold between the ears of 15 dB at 1/2, 1, 2 and 4 kHz. An unrelated cause was found in 115 (6%). It was due to trauma in 37 (2%), unexplained in 32 (1.7%) and attributed to noise exposure in 97 (5.2%). The possible mechanisms for noise as a cause are discussed and include shielding of one ear from noise, unequal recovery after severe noise exposure, and unequal sensitivity of the ears. After extensive investigation, including X-rays, vestibular tests and some myelograms, no treatable disorder was discovered.", "contents": "Occupational hearing loss. The significance of asymmetrical hearing thresholds. In 1873 consecutive patients referred for compensation assessment for presumed industrial hearing loss, 281 (15%) had an average difference in hearing threshold between the ears of 15 dB at 1/2, 1, 2 and 4 kHz. An unrelated cause was found in 115 (6%). It was due to trauma in 37 (2%), unexplained in 32 (1.7%) and attributed to noise exposure in 97 (5.2%). The possible mechanisms for noise as a cause are discussed and include shielding of one ear from noise, unequal recovery after severe noise exposure, and unequal sensitivity of the ears. After extensive investigation, including X-rays, vestibular tests and some myelograms, no treatable disorder was discovered.", "PMID": 443006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5862", "title": "Experimental exposure to impulse noise in the especially pathogenic impact frequency range.", "content": "The pathogenicity of impulse-induced noise depends not only on its intensity, but also on the repetition rate of the individual sound impacts. The reason is the effect exercised by the acoustical reflex. Its protective function is said by some experts to last for only little more than 2 seconds. For this reason, two groups of young persons were exposed to noise impacts whose repetition rates were 2 and 3 seconds, thus falling within the period of time in question. The resulting auditory fatigue (TTS) is analysed. The results of the measurements suggest that the activity of the acoustical reflex lasts less than 2 seconds under these test conditions.", "contents": "Experimental exposure to impulse noise in the especially pathogenic impact frequency range. The pathogenicity of impulse-induced noise depends not only on its intensity, but also on the repetition rate of the individual sound impacts. The reason is the effect exercised by the acoustical reflex. Its protective function is said by some experts to last for only little more than 2 seconds. For this reason, two groups of young persons were exposed to noise impacts whose repetition rates were 2 and 3 seconds, thus falling within the period of time in question. The resulting auditory fatigue (TTS) is analysed. The results of the measurements suggest that the activity of the acoustical reflex lasts less than 2 seconds under these test conditions.", "PMID": 443007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5863", "title": "Tectorial membrane: a possible sharpening effect on the frequency analysis in the cochlea.", "content": "Excitation of cochlear hair cells is believed to be produced by radial deflection of their stereocilia as a result of shear motion between the reticular lamina and the tectorial membrane. The shear motion must depend on the mechanical coupling between the organ of Corti and the tectorial membrane. It is shown that, because longitudinal stiffness of the tectorial membrane, the shear motion must be enhanced as the wavelength decreases toward the cochlear vibration maximum. The resulting sharpening of the vibration maximum agrees with the frequency selectivity found in the inner hair cells and cochlear-nerve afferents.", "contents": "Tectorial membrane: a possible sharpening effect on the frequency analysis in the cochlea. Excitation of cochlear hair cells is believed to be produced by radial deflection of their stereocilia as a result of shear motion between the reticular lamina and the tectorial membrane. The shear motion must depend on the mechanical coupling between the organ of Corti and the tectorial membrane. It is shown that, because longitudinal stiffness of the tectorial membrane, the shear motion must be enhanced as the wavelength decreases toward the cochlear vibration maximum. The resulting sharpening of the vibration maximum agrees with the frequency selectivity found in the inner hair cells and cochlear-nerve afferents.", "PMID": 443008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5864", "title": "Auditory nerve and brainstem responses in the newborn and in preschool children.", "content": "The practicability of recording auditory nerve and brainstem responses during early childhood is demonstrated. This paper reports our experience with two different electrode locations: ear-canal/ear-lobe and ear-lobe/vertex. The test is performed with a light portable stimulus-generating and response-recording system that can easily be brought into wards and nurseries. In most instances, the presence of responses can be assessed using ear-lobe/vertex recordings. There is seldom any need for sedation or general anaesthesia. Testing personnel can be limited to one trained technician. If responses are not detected, ear-canal/ear-lobe recording may be used to clarify the results. General anaesthesia may then be necessary and the presence of a physician will be required for the placement of the canal electrode.", "contents": "Auditory nerve and brainstem responses in the newborn and in preschool children. The practicability of recording auditory nerve and brainstem responses during early childhood is demonstrated. This paper reports our experience with two different electrode locations: ear-canal/ear-lobe and ear-lobe/vertex. The test is performed with a light portable stimulus-generating and response-recording system that can easily be brought into wards and nurseries. In most instances, the presence of responses can be assessed using ear-lobe/vertex recordings. There is seldom any need for sedation or general anaesthesia. Testing personnel can be limited to one trained technician. If responses are not detected, ear-canal/ear-lobe recording may be used to clarify the results. General anaesthesia may then be necessary and the presence of a physician will be required for the placement of the canal electrode.", "PMID": 443010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5865", "title": "Fully objective ERA by phase spectral analysis.", "content": "A method of ERA using the Vertex potential is presented which is entirely objective. The result is given by means of a statistical evaluation which is derived automatically. The method is based on pattern analysis of the V-potential, the technique relying essentially on analysis of the phase spectrum of the appropriate Fourier components.", "contents": "Fully objective ERA by phase spectral analysis. A method of ERA using the Vertex potential is presented which is entirely objective. The result is given by means of a statistical evaluation which is derived automatically. The method is based on pattern analysis of the V-potential, the technique relying essentially on analysis of the phase spectrum of the appropriate Fourier components.", "PMID": 443009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5866", "title": "Auditory brainstem potentials in man evoked by electrical stimulation of the round window.", "content": "In normal subjects, round-window electrical stimulation provides a sound sensation and supplies brainstem-evoked responses whose form is just the same of those evoked by sound stimulation. This electrical stimulation also provides a sound sensation in more than 90% of cases of total deafness, which means that at least a few auditory nerve fibres are still present. Thus, this test is indispensable when considering surgical rehabilitation with a multichannel cochlear implant. The diagram of this response to an electrical stimulus differs completely in the case of total deafness and in normal subjects. The correlation between the form of these diagrams and the supposed etiology of the deafness is not significant.", "contents": "Auditory brainstem potentials in man evoked by electrical stimulation of the round window. In normal subjects, round-window electrical stimulation provides a sound sensation and supplies brainstem-evoked responses whose form is just the same of those evoked by sound stimulation. This electrical stimulation also provides a sound sensation in more than 90% of cases of total deafness, which means that at least a few auditory nerve fibres are still present. Thus, this test is indispensable when considering surgical rehabilitation with a multichannel cochlear implant. The diagram of this response to an electrical stimulus differs completely in the case of total deafness and in normal subjects. The correlation between the form of these diagrams and the supposed etiology of the deafness is not significant.", "PMID": 443011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5867", "title": "First observations on treatment of cholesteatoma with (N-acetyl)cysteine.", "content": "In a series of cholesteatoma patients the benefit of local application of acetylcysteine was demonstrated. Chemical studies and fractional analyses were used to reveal the breakdown of keratin. Histochemically the influence of acetylcysteine on keratin is confirmed.", "contents": "First observations on treatment of cholesteatoma with (N-acetyl)cysteine. In a series of cholesteatoma patients the benefit of local application of acetylcysteine was demonstrated. Chemical studies and fractional analyses were used to reveal the breakdown of keratin. Histochemically the influence of acetylcysteine on keratin is confirmed.", "PMID": 443016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5868", "title": "The high position of the jugular bulb.", "content": "The relationship between the bottom of the hypotympanon and the jugular bulb has been investigated on the basis of a histological analysis of 815 temporal bones. A high position of the jugular bulb has been found in 3.5% of the temporal bones examined. Only exceptionally does it occur bilaterally and is more often found on the right than left side. We distinguish two localizations of the high position of the bulb in the hypotympanon: the lateral and the medial. In either case the bulb may be damaged during myringotomy or during the removal of granulation tissue in middle ear surgery. Injury at myringotomy can be avoided only if there is a reinforcement of the bony wall. In the lateral position, the jugular bulb may be damaged when the tympanomeatal flap is being elevated. The bulb can occasionally be mistaken for a jugular glomus tumour. There is hardly any difference between cases where the bone between the bulb and the middle ear space is dehiscent or only very thin. The thickness of the bony shell is only 0.1-0.3 mm--thus there is no real protection against instrumental injuries.", "contents": "The high position of the jugular bulb. The relationship between the bottom of the hypotympanon and the jugular bulb has been investigated on the basis of a histological analysis of 815 temporal bones. A high position of the jugular bulb has been found in 3.5% of the temporal bones examined. Only exceptionally does it occur bilaterally and is more often found on the right than left side. We distinguish two localizations of the high position of the bulb in the hypotympanon: the lateral and the medial. In either case the bulb may be damaged during myringotomy or during the removal of granulation tissue in middle ear surgery. Injury at myringotomy can be avoided only if there is a reinforcement of the bony wall. In the lateral position, the jugular bulb may be damaged when the tympanomeatal flap is being elevated. The bulb can occasionally be mistaken for a jugular glomus tumour. There is hardly any difference between cases where the bone between the bulb and the middle ear space is dehiscent or only very thin. The thickness of the bony shell is only 0.1-0.3 mm--thus there is no real protection against instrumental injuries.", "PMID": 443015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5869", "title": "Experimental surgery on the nose. Changes of the epithelium in the vestibular region at altered airflow.", "content": "In 20 rabbits one nostril was closed surgically and the nasal mucosa lying anteriorly in the vestibule was studied 4--90 days postoperatively. On the occluded side, without air-flow, the epithelium--which at this site is normally thickened due to hyperplasia of basal cells--gradually returned to a normal thinner, regular epithelium with increased number of goblet cells. On the patent side, where the airflow was doubled, the cilia were damaged. As early as the 4th day, a process of repair had been initiated, with hyperplasia of basal cells and differentiation of these cells into ciliated and goblet cells. As a result of continued trauma, similar processes continued, but there were no signs of a permanent transformation of the epithelium into squamous epithelium, not even on the 90th day.", "contents": "Experimental surgery on the nose. Changes of the epithelium in the vestibular region at altered airflow. In 20 rabbits one nostril was closed surgically and the nasal mucosa lying anteriorly in the vestibule was studied 4--90 days postoperatively. On the occluded side, without air-flow, the epithelium--which at this site is normally thickened due to hyperplasia of basal cells--gradually returned to a normal thinner, regular epithelium with increased number of goblet cells. On the patent side, where the airflow was doubled, the cilia were damaged. As early as the 4th day, a process of repair had been initiated, with hyperplasia of basal cells and differentiation of these cells into ciliated and goblet cells. As a result of continued trauma, similar processes continued, but there were no signs of a permanent transformation of the epithelium into squamous epithelium, not even on the 90th day.", "PMID": 443012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5870", "title": "Nasal polyposis. Relationships to allergy and acetylsalicyclic acid intolerance.", "content": "Allergological, clinical and histological findings in 109 unselected patients, treated for nasal polyps during the period Feb. 1977 to Feb. 1978 are reported. The material was divided into three groups according to clinical findings: 1) Atopy Group; 18 patients with positive history and skin test; 2) ASA Intolerance Group; 25 patients with a definite history of acetylsalicylic acid intolerance; and 3) Intrinsic Disease Group; 66 patients in whom specific etiological factors were not found. On skin testing, positive reactions were obtained in 42 patients. In 23 of the patients, the skin test result agreed with the history. Secretion and tissue eosinophilia, noted in 97 and 102 patients, respectively, correlated in 88% of the patients, whereas correlation with blood eosinophilia was poor (30%). The mean IgE level was 140 in the serum and 731 in the polyp fluid, serum values above 150 occurring in 28 out of 105 patients and fluid values above 150 in 58 out of 84 patients. The predominant histological finding in the polyp biopsies was tissue eosinophilia, which was most abundant in the ASA intolerance group. Squamous metaplasia was seen in 30% but it was marked only in 5 cases. In 10 patients ASA intolerance was confirmed by oral provocation.", "contents": "Nasal polyposis. Relationships to allergy and acetylsalicyclic acid intolerance. Allergological, clinical and histological findings in 109 unselected patients, treated for nasal polyps during the period Feb. 1977 to Feb. 1978 are reported. The material was divided into three groups according to clinical findings: 1) Atopy Group; 18 patients with positive history and skin test; 2) ASA Intolerance Group; 25 patients with a definite history of acetylsalicylic acid intolerance; and 3) Intrinsic Disease Group; 66 patients in whom specific etiological factors were not found. On skin testing, positive reactions were obtained in 42 patients. In 23 of the patients, the skin test result agreed with the history. Secretion and tissue eosinophilia, noted in 97 and 102 patients, respectively, correlated in 88% of the patients, whereas correlation with blood eosinophilia was poor (30%). The mean IgE level was 140 in the serum and 731 in the polyp fluid, serum values above 150 occurring in 28 out of 105 patients and fluid values above 150 in 58 out of 84 patients. The predominant histological finding in the polyp biopsies was tissue eosinophilia, which was most abundant in the ASA intolerance group. Squamous metaplasia was seen in 30% but it was marked only in 5 cases. In 10 patients ASA intolerance was confirmed by oral provocation.", "PMID": 443013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5871", "title": "Growth mechanisms in skulls with facial clefts. Descriptive and experimental studies on the facial skeleton.", "content": "During postnatal growth, skulls of patients with untreated unilateral clefts of the alveolus and palate develop additional anomalies of the facial skeleton. Similar anomalies--a deviation of the upper jaw to the non-cleft side and retropositioning of the maxilla on the cleft side--develop in rabbits with the same type of cleft, surgically produced in the fourth week after birth. Based on a quantitative study of the postnatal growth of the rabbit skull under normal and various experimental conditions, a mechanisms is proposed for the late developement of anomalies of the facial skeleton in cleft-affected skulls.", "contents": "Growth mechanisms in skulls with facial clefts. Descriptive and experimental studies on the facial skeleton. During postnatal growth, skulls of patients with untreated unilateral clefts of the alveolus and palate develop additional anomalies of the facial skeleton. Similar anomalies--a deviation of the upper jaw to the non-cleft side and retropositioning of the maxilla on the cleft side--develop in rabbits with the same type of cleft, surgically produced in the fourth week after birth. Based on a quantitative study of the postnatal growth of the rabbit skull under normal and various experimental conditions, a mechanisms is proposed for the late developement of anomalies of the facial skeleton in cleft-affected skulls.", "PMID": 443014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5872", "title": "Perilymph production and cochlear blood flow.", "content": "In rodents at least, the main sources of the perilymph fluid are (1) influx of CSF through the cochlear aqueduct, and (2) blood flow dependent local production within the cochlea. Experimental data are presented that give a ratio of 22:78 percent for those sources. The perilymph production thus derives mainly from the cochlear blood flow. It is concluded that measurements of the perilymph production can be used as indirect measurements of the inner ear blood flow under various experimental conditions. Two experimental examples are referred to.", "contents": "Perilymph production and cochlear blood flow. In rodents at least, the main sources of the perilymph fluid are (1) influx of CSF through the cochlear aqueduct, and (2) blood flow dependent local production within the cochlea. Experimental data are presented that give a ratio of 22:78 percent for those sources. The perilymph production thus derives mainly from the cochlear blood flow. It is concluded that measurements of the perilymph production can be used as indirect measurements of the inner ear blood flow under various experimental conditions. Two experimental examples are referred to.", "PMID": 443018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5873", "title": "A new method for the identification of cerebrospinal fluid leakage.", "content": "Apart from the use of anamnestic data the most common techniques for the diagnosis of CSF leakage have included X-ray studies, and chemical analysis of glucose, protein, and electrolytes of the fluid obtained from the nose or ear, intrathecal staining, and radioactive cisternography. These studies, although useful, have not always succeeded in demonstrating the CSF leakage, especially when the leak is delayed, small, or contaminated. A new immunochemical technique for the identification of the CSF leakage is described. It is based on demonstration of an extra band of transferrin located in the beta 2-fraction of protein electrophoresis of CSF. This beta 2-transferrin is pathognomonic for liquor and could not be demonstrated in serum, nasal secretions, saliva, tears, or peri- and endolymph. After routine protein electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes, the transferrins are identified by application of anti-transferrin on beta-regions. Stained precipitates in both beta-regions demonstrate clearly the presence of CSF. Compared with other methods, the new technique offers many advantages. The amount of sample needed for the procedure is small, moderate contamination does not invalidate it, it makes it possible to localize the leak by differential suction, and it is absolutely safe for the patient.", "contents": "A new method for the identification of cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Apart from the use of anamnestic data the most common techniques for the diagnosis of CSF leakage have included X-ray studies, and chemical analysis of glucose, protein, and electrolytes of the fluid obtained from the nose or ear, intrathecal staining, and radioactive cisternography. These studies, although useful, have not always succeeded in demonstrating the CSF leakage, especially when the leak is delayed, small, or contaminated. A new immunochemical technique for the identification of the CSF leakage is described. It is based on demonstration of an extra band of transferrin located in the beta 2-fraction of protein electrophoresis of CSF. This beta 2-transferrin is pathognomonic for liquor and could not be demonstrated in serum, nasal secretions, saliva, tears, or peri- and endolymph. After routine protein electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes, the transferrins are identified by application of anti-transferrin on beta-regions. Stained precipitates in both beta-regions demonstrate clearly the presence of CSF. Compared with other methods, the new technique offers many advantages. The amount of sample needed for the procedure is small, moderate contamination does not invalidate it, it makes it possible to localize the leak by differential suction, and it is absolutely safe for the patient.", "PMID": 443017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5874", "title": "Nystagmus alternans.", "content": "Alternating nystagmus is a spontaneous nystagmus which changes in direction without any external influence. In the literature this phenomenon has so far been described in 90 cases; in 12 of these, the nystagmus had a congenital origin. In contradistinction to the congenital type, the acquired type of alternating nystagmus is in most cases caused by a central nervous system disorder. We found the phenomenon of alternating nystagmus in 21 cases, in 15 of which it was congenital. The nystagmus was observed by means of electronystagmography. Differences were found between the two nystagmus types. The characteristics of alternating nystagmus are discussed.", "contents": "Nystagmus alternans. Alternating nystagmus is a spontaneous nystagmus which changes in direction without any external influence. In the literature this phenomenon has so far been described in 90 cases; in 12 of these, the nystagmus had a congenital origin. In contradistinction to the congenital type, the acquired type of alternating nystagmus is in most cases caused by a central nervous system disorder. We found the phenomenon of alternating nystagmus in 21 cases, in 15 of which it was congenital. The nystagmus was observed by means of electronystagmography. Differences were found between the two nystagmus types. The characteristics of alternating nystagmus are discussed.", "PMID": 443021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5875", "title": "Neural connections of the outer haircell system.", "content": "The afferent innervation of the outer hair cells consists of a special type of neuron, distinguished by its characteristic structure and particular degeneration behavior. The connections of these neurons to the sensory cell, the central nervous system and the other cochlear neurons have been studied from different aspects and under various experimental conditions. There is evidence that the neurons are not effectively connected to the central nervous system, have no functional interconnections to other neurons and their functional significance in the adult animal is only rudimentary.", "contents": "Neural connections of the outer haircell system. The afferent innervation of the outer hair cells consists of a special type of neuron, distinguished by its characteristic structure and particular degeneration behavior. The connections of these neurons to the sensory cell, the central nervous system and the other cochlear neurons have been studied from different aspects and under various experimental conditions. There is evidence that the neurons are not effectively connected to the central nervous system, have no functional interconnections to other neurons and their functional significance in the adult animal is only rudimentary.", "PMID": 443019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5876", "title": "Family aggregation in Bell's palsy.", "content": "Some authors have reported a familial aggregation in Bell's paralysis. However, the information so far forthcoming is unsatisfactory and even contradictory. Our survey consisted of 115 patients, 30.5% of whom had an affected first-degree relative, which, compared with the control group figure of 3.6%, is highly significant. The frequency of 30.5% of families with an affected first-degree relative is the highest reported in literature.", "contents": "Family aggregation in Bell's palsy. Some authors have reported a familial aggregation in Bell's paralysis. However, the information so far forthcoming is unsatisfactory and even contradictory. Our survey consisted of 115 patients, 30.5% of whom had an affected first-degree relative, which, compared with the control group figure of 3.6%, is highly significant. The frequency of 30.5% of families with an affected first-degree relative is the highest reported in literature.", "PMID": 443023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5877", "title": "Immunological investigations in laryngeal cancer.", "content": "The authors carried out immunological investigations in 96 patients with laryngeal cancer. The following tests were applied: DNCB, PPD, phyto-test and the lymphocyte count. The patients were divided into three groups: 1) cured, one year following treatment; 2) relapses; 3) died during the first year. The separate group of 13 patients tested twice in first year was analysed too. The immunological tests were also performed in 24 patients with no relapses of laryngeal cancer in the period between 3 and 10 years after treatment. This group was used for a comparative analysis with laryngeal relapses. In our opinion each individual test has its relative merit. According to our results patients with normal and elevated test values have the best prognosis of cancer disease.", "contents": "Immunological investigations in laryngeal cancer. The authors carried out immunological investigations in 96 patients with laryngeal cancer. The following tests were applied: DNCB, PPD, phyto-test and the lymphocyte count. The patients were divided into three groups: 1) cured, one year following treatment; 2) relapses; 3) died during the first year. The separate group of 13 patients tested twice in first year was analysed too. The immunological tests were also performed in 24 patients with no relapses of laryngeal cancer in the period between 3 and 10 years after treatment. This group was used for a comparative analysis with laryngeal relapses. In our opinion each individual test has its relative merit. According to our results patients with normal and elevated test values have the best prognosis of cancer disease.", "PMID": 443020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5878", "title": "Meni\u00e8re's disease: etiology and natural history.", "content": "Fifty-three carefully selected patients with Meni\u00e8re's disease were studied. Unlike Pulec, who describes a specific etiology in Meni\u00e8re's disease in 48% of the cases, we found no specific etiology in this study, except in one case (syphilis). The sequence of the development of the symptoms showed marked individual differences. In 16 patients, cochlear and vestibular symptoms started at the same time. In 26 patients the vestibular symptoms started after the cochlear symptoms and in 11 patients the reverse occurred. The meaning of these findings for the mechanism of the Meni\u00e8re attack is discussed.", "contents": "Meni\u00e8re's disease: etiology and natural history. Fifty-three carefully selected patients with Meni\u00e8re's disease were studied. Unlike Pulec, who describes a specific etiology in Meni\u00e8re's disease in 48% of the cases, we found no specific etiology in this study, except in one case (syphilis). The sequence of the development of the symptoms showed marked individual differences. In 16 patients, cochlear and vestibular symptoms started at the same time. In 26 patients the vestibular symptoms started after the cochlear symptoms and in 11 patients the reverse occurred. The meaning of these findings for the mechanism of the Meni\u00e8re attack is discussed.", "PMID": 443022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5879", "title": "Quality of care: a tracer diagnosis study of acute otitis media, comparing a district paediatric service with paediatric and otolaryngology emergency departments.", "content": "Acute otitis media was used as a tracer condition for comparing patient care as regards patient satisfaction, compliance and medical outcome in a district paediatric office, an otolaryngological and a paediatric hospital emergency department. The initial work-up of the 216 patients studied at the three units was in good agreement with predefined standards. However, while the district paediatrician arranged a follow-up for all patients, the hospitals did so only in 10--30% of the visits. Parent satisfaction was significantly higher at the district office when the time spent waiting and the time the patient was with the doctor were kept constant. Urinary penicillin was not detected in 1/17 of district paediatric and in 6/19 of otological patients. Compliance with follow-up was also much higher at the district paediatrician. Medical outcome did not differ between the units. The majority of the parents expressed preference for the type of care given in a neighbourhood service. It is suggested that the criteria for adequate treatment of acute otitis media adapted for emergency departments may be revised in case easy access is provided to a medical centre offering continuity of care and proper follow-up. Studies of the quality of care have so far not managed to demonstrate a definite and positive relationship between the process of care, patient satisfaction and final medical results.", "contents": "Quality of care: a tracer diagnosis study of acute otitis media, comparing a district paediatric service with paediatric and otolaryngology emergency departments. Acute otitis media was used as a tracer condition for comparing patient care as regards patient satisfaction, compliance and medical outcome in a district paediatric office, an otolaryngological and a paediatric hospital emergency department. The initial work-up of the 216 patients studied at the three units was in good agreement with predefined standards. However, while the district paediatrician arranged a follow-up for all patients, the hospitals did so only in 10--30% of the visits. Parent satisfaction was significantly higher at the district office when the time spent waiting and the time the patient was with the doctor were kept constant. Urinary penicillin was not detected in 1/17 of district paediatric and in 6/19 of otological patients. Compliance with follow-up was also much higher at the district paediatrician. Medical outcome did not differ between the units. The majority of the parents expressed preference for the type of care given in a neighbourhood service. It is suggested that the criteria for adequate treatment of acute otitis media adapted for emergency departments may be revised in case easy access is provided to a medical centre offering continuity of care and proper follow-up. Studies of the quality of care have so far not managed to demonstrate a definite and positive relationship between the process of care, patient satisfaction and final medical results.", "PMID": 443032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5880", "title": "Clinical course of whooping cough in children younger than six months.", "content": "The patient records of 59 children aged 2--26 weeks with culture-verified pertussis were analysed. Twenty-four of them were hospitalized, in most cases for social reasons. Only one child with hypothyroidism and a complicating pneumonia was critically ill. Seventeen of the 35 non-hospitalized patients had a mild disease without developing typical whooping attacks. Thirteen children were treated with erythromycin in the catarrhal stage. There was a tendency towards milder disease in this group but the differences compared to untreated children were not statistically significant.", "contents": "Clinical course of whooping cough in children younger than six months. The patient records of 59 children aged 2--26 weeks with culture-verified pertussis were analysed. Twenty-four of them were hospitalized, in most cases for social reasons. Only one child with hypothyroidism and a complicating pneumonia was critically ill. Seventeen of the 35 non-hospitalized patients had a mild disease without developing typical whooping attacks. Thirteen children were treated with erythromycin in the catarrhal stage. There was a tendency towards milder disease in this group but the differences compared to untreated children were not statistically significant.", "PMID": 443033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5881", "title": "Diagnostic value of symptoms and clean-voided urine specimen in childhood urinary tract infection.", "content": "In diagnosing urinary tract infection (UTI) the symptoms of 477 infants and children and the findings in their clean-voided urine specimens were evaluated. 322 patients were considered infected, when a bacterial culture of suprapubic aspirate was used as a diagnostic reference. No diagnosis was attempted on the basis of symptoms only. Numerous bacteria or greater than or equal to 200 leuc./mm3 in an uncentrifuged clean-voided urine specimen or greater than or equal to 10(5) bact./ml in quantitative bacterial culture were found in 59%, 42% and 81% of the infected symptomatic patients. The diagnostic accuracies of these indices were 88%, 94% and 95%, respectively. In asymptomatic patients the accuracies were considerably lower. Among these infected patients normal or equivocal isolated findings in the clean-voided urine specimens were frequently seen, and could not markedly be reduced by the various related factors, such as technique of urine collection, urine specific gravity or pH of urine. None of the above mentioned indices of the clean-voided urine specimens seems to be alone accurate and sensitive enough for diagnosing UTI, and therefore these should be used in combination. The advantage of immediately obtaining results supports the use of urine microscopy as a primary diagnostic method in symptomatic UTI of childhood in particular.", "contents": "Diagnostic value of symptoms and clean-voided urine specimen in childhood urinary tract infection. In diagnosing urinary tract infection (UTI) the symptoms of 477 infants and children and the findings in their clean-voided urine specimens were evaluated. 322 patients were considered infected, when a bacterial culture of suprapubic aspirate was used as a diagnostic reference. No diagnosis was attempted on the basis of symptoms only. Numerous bacteria or greater than or equal to 200 leuc./mm3 in an uncentrifuged clean-voided urine specimen or greater than or equal to 10(5) bact./ml in quantitative bacterial culture were found in 59%, 42% and 81% of the infected symptomatic patients. The diagnostic accuracies of these indices were 88%, 94% and 95%, respectively. In asymptomatic patients the accuracies were considerably lower. Among these infected patients normal or equivocal isolated findings in the clean-voided urine specimens were frequently seen, and could not markedly be reduced by the various related factors, such as technique of urine collection, urine specific gravity or pH of urine. None of the above mentioned indices of the clean-voided urine specimens seems to be alone accurate and sensitive enough for diagnosing UTI, and therefore these should be used in combination. The advantage of immediately obtaining results supports the use of urine microscopy as a primary diagnostic method in symptomatic UTI of childhood in particular.", "PMID": 443034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5882", "title": "Mitral and tricuspid valve vegetations in infancy diagnosed by echocardiography.", "content": "The use of echocardiography in diagnosing intra-cardiac vegetations is described in two infants. The condition is unusual in infancy, but can be suspected from the clinical picture and positive blood cultures. Using echocardiography it is possible to localize the vegetations exactly and estimate the extent of valvular involvement. In one of the cases presented a vegetation on the anterior mitral leaflet was diagnosed and a gradual increase in size could be demonstrated. In the other case a large echo-producing mass was found attached to the tricuspid valve, protruding into the right ventricular outflow tract. This mass represented a fungal vegetation. In both cases autopsy later verified the echocardiographic findings.", "contents": "Mitral and tricuspid valve vegetations in infancy diagnosed by echocardiography. The use of echocardiography in diagnosing intra-cardiac vegetations is described in two infants. The condition is unusual in infancy, but can be suspected from the clinical picture and positive blood cultures. Using echocardiography it is possible to localize the vegetations exactly and estimate the extent of valvular involvement. In one of the cases presented a vegetation on the anterior mitral leaflet was diagnosed and a gradual increase in size could be demonstrated. In the other case a large echo-producing mass was found attached to the tricuspid valve, protruding into the right ventricular outflow tract. This mass represented a fungal vegetation. In both cases autopsy later verified the echocardiographic findings.", "PMID": 443035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5883", "title": "Renal sodium excretory capacity in infants under different dietary conditions.", "content": "An evaluation of dietary effects on sodium (Na) homeostasis was performed in 28 healthy infants 7--13 weeks of age. Each infant received during one week an ordinary formula where either the Na and/or the protein content was increased twice. The high Na diets induced a significant elevation of the natriuretic response to an oral Na load. The response was most pronounced in those infants receiving a high Na as well as a high protein diet. The diet that was only high in protein resulted in an increased osmotic load to the kidneys but did not affect the Na excretion. The maturation of renal Na excretion thus seems to be accelerated by a high Na intake and further potentiated by a high protein intake. The Na excretory capacity was, even after the period of a high Na diet, well above the level of Na then given.", "contents": "Renal sodium excretory capacity in infants under different dietary conditions. An evaluation of dietary effects on sodium (Na) homeostasis was performed in 28 healthy infants 7--13 weeks of age. Each infant received during one week an ordinary formula where either the Na and/or the protein content was increased twice. The high Na diets induced a significant elevation of the natriuretic response to an oral Na load. The response was most pronounced in those infants receiving a high Na as well as a high protein diet. The diet that was only high in protein resulted in an increased osmotic load to the kidneys but did not affect the Na excretion. The maturation of renal Na excretion thus seems to be accelerated by a high Na intake and further potentiated by a high protein intake. The Na excretory capacity was, even after the period of a high Na diet, well above the level of Na then given.", "PMID": 443036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5884", "title": "Serial measurements of thoracic impedance and cardiac output in healthy neonates after normal delivery and caesarean section.", "content": "Thoracic electrical impedance measurements were serially performed during the 1st, 2nd, 8th and up to the 32nd hour of life in two groups (V and S) of healthy infants. In group V, all 24 infants were delivered vaginally, in group S, all 24 infants were delivered by caesarean section for obstetrical reasons. Basal thoracic impedance (Zo), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (Q) were determined on each examination. In group V, Zo increased from 31.9 to 34.0 ohm between 2 hours and the last recording between 8 and 32 hours. SV decreased from 4.1 to 3.4 ml between 2 and 4 hours and was accompanied by a decrease of Q from 560 to 450 ml/min. Heart rate slowed from 129 to 115 beats/min between 2 hours and the last recording at greater than or equal to 8 hours. In group S, Zo increased from 32.2 to 35.9 ohm between 2 and 8 hours. Mean SV increased from 3.6 to 4.4 ml between 8 and 32 hours and heart rate slowed from 131 to 113 beats/min between 1 and 8 hours. No significant differences were observed between the groups. The accuracy of the impedance--SV and Q data cannot be validated. For the most part they compare favourably with values previously obtained by soluble gas methods. Serial changes may reflect not only decreasing shunts and/or increasing aeration but also changes in total fluid volume of the lungs, intra- or extravascular. The precision of the measurements is good since reproducibility of single SV and Q determinations is higher than with standard dilution techniques. The data obtained may serve as baseline values for comparison with data in infants of the same age with various anomalies.", "contents": "Serial measurements of thoracic impedance and cardiac output in healthy neonates after normal delivery and caesarean section. Thoracic electrical impedance measurements were serially performed during the 1st, 2nd, 8th and up to the 32nd hour of life in two groups (V and S) of healthy infants. In group V, all 24 infants were delivered vaginally, in group S, all 24 infants were delivered by caesarean section for obstetrical reasons. Basal thoracic impedance (Zo), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (Q) were determined on each examination. In group V, Zo increased from 31.9 to 34.0 ohm between 2 hours and the last recording between 8 and 32 hours. SV decreased from 4.1 to 3.4 ml between 2 and 4 hours and was accompanied by a decrease of Q from 560 to 450 ml/min. Heart rate slowed from 129 to 115 beats/min between 2 hours and the last recording at greater than or equal to 8 hours. In group S, Zo increased from 32.2 to 35.9 ohm between 2 and 8 hours. Mean SV increased from 3.6 to 4.4 ml between 8 and 32 hours and heart rate slowed from 131 to 113 beats/min between 1 and 8 hours. No significant differences were observed between the groups. The accuracy of the impedance--SV and Q data cannot be validated. For the most part they compare favourably with values previously obtained by soluble gas methods. Serial changes may reflect not only decreasing shunts and/or increasing aeration but also changes in total fluid volume of the lungs, intra- or extravascular. The precision of the measurements is good since reproducibility of single SV and Q determinations is higher than with standard dilution techniques. The data obtained may serve as baseline values for comparison with data in infants of the same age with various anomalies.", "PMID": 443037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5885", "title": "Transepidermal water loss in newborn infants. II. Relation to activity and body temperature.", "content": "Using a method described in a previous article the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was studied in 10 healthy newborn infants at rest and during activity. On the average TEWL was 37% higher during activity than during rest although no sweating was observed. In 9 infants placed in incubators with an ambient temperature slightly above the thermoneutral range measurements were made as the body temperature rose. TEWL was almost constant until a temperature of 37.1 degrees C was reached whereupon the water loss suddenly increased as the infant started sweating.", "contents": "Transepidermal water loss in newborn infants. II. Relation to activity and body temperature. Using a method described in a previous article the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was studied in 10 healthy newborn infants at rest and during activity. On the average TEWL was 37% higher during activity than during rest although no sweating was observed. In 9 infants placed in incubators with an ambient temperature slightly above the thermoneutral range measurements were made as the body temperature rose. TEWL was almost constant until a temperature of 37.1 degrees C was reached whereupon the water loss suddenly increased as the infant started sweating.", "PMID": 443038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5886", "title": "Human colostral and breast milk cells. A light and electron microscopic study.", "content": "Colostrum and breast milk samples were obtained from 74 women, 18 of whom gave sequential samples. The mean total leukocyte count in colostrum was 3190 cells/mm3. Proportions of macrophages, polymorphs and lymphocytes varied widely; macrophages usually predominated. Serial sampling showed (1) a small fall in total counts through delivery, (2) a fall in total counts and the proportion of PMNs at the onset of lactation, (3) after 1 to 2 weeks of lactation the appearance of cytoplasmic fragments together with epithelial cells which later constituted the main cell type. It was estimated that the total number of leukocytes available to the neonate remained approximately constant during the first 2 weeks of lactation and fell thereafter. Functionally, morphologically and histochemically macrophages in colostrum and breast milk resembled macrophages elsewhere. Their ultrastructure was characterized by filiform surface projections, numerous endocytic vacuoles and lipid droplets in the cytoplasm.", "contents": "Human colostral and breast milk cells. A light and electron microscopic study. Colostrum and breast milk samples were obtained from 74 women, 18 of whom gave sequential samples. The mean total leukocyte count in colostrum was 3190 cells/mm3. Proportions of macrophages, polymorphs and lymphocytes varied widely; macrophages usually predominated. Serial sampling showed (1) a small fall in total counts through delivery, (2) a fall in total counts and the proportion of PMNs at the onset of lactation, (3) after 1 to 2 weeks of lactation the appearance of cytoplasmic fragments together with epithelial cells which later constituted the main cell type. It was estimated that the total number of leukocytes available to the neonate remained approximately constant during the first 2 weeks of lactation and fell thereafter. Functionally, morphologically and histochemically macrophages in colostrum and breast milk resembled macrophages elsewhere. Their ultrastructure was characterized by filiform surface projections, numerous endocytic vacuoles and lipid droplets in the cytoplasm.", "PMID": 443039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5887", "title": "Incidence of coeliac disease and transient gluten intolerance in children in a Swedish urban community.", "content": "The incidence of coeliac disease in children in the city of Malm\u00f6, South Sweden, was 1 : 982 during 1966 to 1975. The diagnostic criteria were: flat intestinal mucosa on gluten-containing diet, free of symptoms, and improvement in mucosal morphology on gluten-free diet, and morphological and/or evident clinical relapse (three times) on gluten challenge. 6 (12%) of 49 children with initially a flat mucosa still had a normal mucosa on a gluten-containing diet for two years or longer, having so-called transient gluten intolerance.", "contents": "Incidence of coeliac disease and transient gluten intolerance in children in a Swedish urban community. The incidence of coeliac disease in children in the city of Malm\u00f6, South Sweden, was 1 : 982 during 1966 to 1975. The diagnostic criteria were: flat intestinal mucosa on gluten-containing diet, free of symptoms, and improvement in mucosal morphology on gluten-free diet, and morphological and/or evident clinical relapse (three times) on gluten challenge. 6 (12%) of 49 children with initially a flat mucosa still had a normal mucosa on a gluten-containing diet for two years or longer, having so-called transient gluten intolerance.", "PMID": 443040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5888", "title": "Effect of long-term GH administration on pituitary-thyroid function in idiopathic hypopituitarism.", "content": "Twenty-four euthyroid children with idiopathic pituitary dwarfism were studied. The euthyroid state for seven of these patients was determined by negative physical examinations, normal plasma T4 assays and normal 131I uptakes. For the other children, thyroid function was evaluated with T3 and T4 assays and on the basis of the TRH test. Each of the children was treated with HGH in one of three different ways. The first group (five cases) was given a HGH dose, ranging from 12.4 to 17.2 IU/m2//week. The second and third groups (nine and ten cases, respectively) were treated with 10 and 20 IU/m2/week, respectively. Treatment was carried out for periods ranging from 6 months to 6 years. After no less than 6 months of treatment, and at intervals of 6 months (or some multiple of 6 months) plasma T3 and T4 assays, as well as a TRH test were performed in each patient. In some patients one of the indices was once beyond the upper or lower limit of the normal range (none of the children presented simultaneous abnormal levels of more than one index during the controls). This value, however, returned to within normal limits at the following control. There was no correlation between T3, T4 and TSH with the duration of HGH therapy. There was no significant difference between the groups of children treated with the different HGH doses. These data seem to demonstrate that the risk of inducing an alteration in thyroid function in hypopituitary patients during HGH treatment is very slight, and that the irregularly abnormal thyroid indices observed in some of the children during one of the controls might be an expression of their metabolic status at that moment.", "contents": "Effect of long-term GH administration on pituitary-thyroid function in idiopathic hypopituitarism. Twenty-four euthyroid children with idiopathic pituitary dwarfism were studied. The euthyroid state for seven of these patients was determined by negative physical examinations, normal plasma T4 assays and normal 131I uptakes. For the other children, thyroid function was evaluated with T3 and T4 assays and on the basis of the TRH test. Each of the children was treated with HGH in one of three different ways. The first group (five cases) was given a HGH dose, ranging from 12.4 to 17.2 IU/m2//week. The second and third groups (nine and ten cases, respectively) were treated with 10 and 20 IU/m2/week, respectively. Treatment was carried out for periods ranging from 6 months to 6 years. After no less than 6 months of treatment, and at intervals of 6 months (or some multiple of 6 months) plasma T3 and T4 assays, as well as a TRH test were performed in each patient. In some patients one of the indices was once beyond the upper or lower limit of the normal range (none of the children presented simultaneous abnormal levels of more than one index during the controls). This value, however, returned to within normal limits at the following control. There was no correlation between T3, T4 and TSH with the duration of HGH therapy. There was no significant difference between the groups of children treated with the different HGH doses. These data seem to demonstrate that the risk of inducing an alteration in thyroid function in hypopituitary patients during HGH treatment is very slight, and that the irregularly abnormal thyroid indices observed in some of the children during one of the controls might be an expression of their metabolic status at that moment.", "PMID": 443041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5889", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of amikacin in infants and pre-school children.", "content": "The pharmacokinetic properties of amikacin sulfate in infants and children aged from three weeks to 6 years were studied during treatment with doses of 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours using standard assay methods and technique of two compartment open model kinetic analysis. Peak serum concentrations of amikacin were measured 30 or 60 min after the first intramuscular injection. These ranged from 11.8 microgram/ml to 23 microgram/ml in infants and from 9.0 microgram/ml to 29 microgram/ml in children. Five minutes after the first intravenous bolous injection they varied from 16 microgram/ml to 29.8 microgram/ml in infants and from 34 microgram/ml to 42 microgram/ml in children. Twelve hours after injection serum concentrations were less than 0.8 microgram/ml in all patients. Mean serum half-lives of amikacin in infants and children were 2.1 hours and 2.0 hours after intramuscular, and 2.2 and 2.0 hours after intravenous administration respectively. No evidence of accumulation was observed after four days treatment. The amount of antibiotic recovered within 12 hours from the urine in all patients ranged from 34.5 to 65% of an intramuscular dose, and from 45.8 to 63.3% of an intravenous dose. The dosage regime of 7.5 mg/kg body weight given every 12 hours should be safe and effective for the treatment of infections in the age groups studied.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of amikacin in infants and pre-school children. The pharmacokinetic properties of amikacin sulfate in infants and children aged from three weeks to 6 years were studied during treatment with doses of 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours using standard assay methods and technique of two compartment open model kinetic analysis. Peak serum concentrations of amikacin were measured 30 or 60 min after the first intramuscular injection. These ranged from 11.8 microgram/ml to 23 microgram/ml in infants and from 9.0 microgram/ml to 29 microgram/ml in children. Five minutes after the first intravenous bolous injection they varied from 16 microgram/ml to 29.8 microgram/ml in infants and from 34 microgram/ml to 42 microgram/ml in children. Twelve hours after injection serum concentrations were less than 0.8 microgram/ml in all patients. Mean serum half-lives of amikacin in infants and children were 2.1 hours and 2.0 hours after intramuscular, and 2.2 and 2.0 hours after intravenous administration respectively. No evidence of accumulation was observed after four days treatment. The amount of antibiotic recovered within 12 hours from the urine in all patients ranged from 34.5 to 65% of an intramuscular dose, and from 45.8 to 63.3% of an intravenous dose. The dosage regime of 7.5 mg/kg body weight given every 12 hours should be safe and effective for the treatment of infections in the age groups studied.", "PMID": 443042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5890", "title": "Correlation between age and plasma level/dosage ratio for phenobarbital in infants and children.", "content": "123 plasma concentration measurements of phenobarbital were obtained from 82 children (2 months - 6 1/2 years old) at steady-state conditions. The plasma level/dosage ratio has been found to have a highly significant correlation with the age of the patient both for dosage in mg/kg and in mg/m2. The ratio increases with the increase in the age of the patient at a rate which is greater for dosages expressed on the basis of body weight. Moreover, at least for body weight related dosages, this increase is relatively high in the first year of life, becoming less marked after. Practical indications are given about the required dosage of phenobarbital in different groups of ages from 2 months to 6 1/2 years. It is recommended however to regularly measure the plasma level of the drug in infants and children treated for long periods of time.", "contents": "Correlation between age and plasma level/dosage ratio for phenobarbital in infants and children. 123 plasma concentration measurements of phenobarbital were obtained from 82 children (2 months - 6 1/2 years old) at steady-state conditions. The plasma level/dosage ratio has been found to have a highly significant correlation with the age of the patient both for dosage in mg/kg and in mg/m2. The ratio increases with the increase in the age of the patient at a rate which is greater for dosages expressed on the basis of body weight. Moreover, at least for body weight related dosages, this increase is relatively high in the first year of life, becoming less marked after. Practical indications are given about the required dosage of phenobarbital in different groups of ages from 2 months to 6 1/2 years. It is recommended however to regularly measure the plasma level of the drug in infants and children treated for long periods of time.", "PMID": 443043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5891", "title": "Serum concentrations of theophylline in children following the administration of doses generally recommended: new dosage regimen required.", "content": "Serum concentrations of theophylline following intravenous and oral administration of aminophylline were studied in asthmatic children, 2--17 years of age. The biological half-life (t 1/2 beta) of theophylline varied between 165 and 495 min. The results revealed that an intravenous loading dose of 6 mg of aminophylline per kg body weight was necessary in order to obtain therapeutic concentrations in children who had not received the drug for the last 6 to 8 hours. The maintenance dose should be determined and controlled by use of serum concentration determinations. In a group of children receiving 5 mg of aminophylline per kg body weight 3 times a day orally, none had concentrations within the therapeutic range in the morning, and only 39% reached therapeutic levels 2 h after the morning dose. No correlation was found between the serum concentration of theophylline and the amount of drug given per kg body weight. The results show that theophylline concentration analysis is necessary to obtain adequate therapeutic levels in children without risking toxic effects.", "contents": "Serum concentrations of theophylline in children following the administration of doses generally recommended: new dosage regimen required. Serum concentrations of theophylline following intravenous and oral administration of aminophylline were studied in asthmatic children, 2--17 years of age. The biological half-life (t 1/2 beta) of theophylline varied between 165 and 495 min. The results revealed that an intravenous loading dose of 6 mg of aminophylline per kg body weight was necessary in order to obtain therapeutic concentrations in children who had not received the drug for the last 6 to 8 hours. The maintenance dose should be determined and controlled by use of serum concentration determinations. In a group of children receiving 5 mg of aminophylline per kg body weight 3 times a day orally, none had concentrations within the therapeutic range in the morning, and only 39% reached therapeutic levels 2 h after the morning dose. No correlation was found between the serum concentration of theophylline and the amount of drug given per kg body weight. The results show that theophylline concentration analysis is necessary to obtain adequate therapeutic levels in children without risking toxic effects.", "PMID": 443044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5892", "title": "Regional deficiency of secretory IgA in a patient with combined immunodeficiency of the ADA deficient type.", "content": "The IgA system in a patient with SCID and ADA deficiency showed heterogeneity. Serum IgA and stool secretory IgA (SIgA) levels were normal, but with altered kappa/lambda and A1/A2 subclass ratios; IgA in saliva and urine was deficient. Amounts of secretory component were normal. Jejunal and rectal biopsies showed prominent lymphonodular hyperplasia, but no cells containing IgA. A normal serum IgA level therefore does not always predict an intact secretory IgA system.", "contents": "Regional deficiency of secretory IgA in a patient with combined immunodeficiency of the ADA deficient type. The IgA system in a patient with SCID and ADA deficiency showed heterogeneity. Serum IgA and stool secretory IgA (SIgA) levels were normal, but with altered kappa/lambda and A1/A2 subclass ratios; IgA in saliva and urine was deficient. Amounts of secretory component were normal. Jejunal and rectal biopsies showed prominent lymphonodular hyperplasia, but no cells containing IgA. A normal serum IgA level therefore does not always predict an intact secretory IgA system.", "PMID": 443046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5893", "title": "A virilizing adrenal tumor with borderline elevation of urinary 17-ketosteroids and histochemical demonstration of a deficiency in the delta 5/delta 4-isomerase, 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymatic system.", "content": "A 3-year-old girl affected by a virilizing tumor of the adrenal gland, without significant elevation in the levels of 17 ketosteroids (17-KS) urinary excretion, was studied clinically. Her symptoms started abruptyly at the age of 2, with progressive enlargement of the clitoris and the appearance of pubic hair. In various tests, the 17-KS levels barely exceeded the upper normal limits and at times remained within normal limits. The retropneumoperitoneum X-ray suggested an enlargement of the right adrenal gland and the presence of a neoplasm, which was actually discovered during surgery. Histopathological examination revealed a well-defined neoplasm, without capsule invasion and with accentuated cell polymorphism. Histoenzymology showed that the tissue lacked the enzymatic system involving 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD). Indoxylesterase (I.EST-A) activity identified the tumor as originating from the internal layers of the adrenal cortex. The histochemical findings were correlated to the clinical picture and the levels of urinary 17-KS.", "contents": "A virilizing adrenal tumor with borderline elevation of urinary 17-ketosteroids and histochemical demonstration of a deficiency in the delta 5/delta 4-isomerase, 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymatic system. A 3-year-old girl affected by a virilizing tumor of the adrenal gland, without significant elevation in the levels of 17 ketosteroids (17-KS) urinary excretion, was studied clinically. Her symptoms started abruptyly at the age of 2, with progressive enlargement of the clitoris and the appearance of pubic hair. In various tests, the 17-KS levels barely exceeded the upper normal limits and at times remained within normal limits. The retropneumoperitoneum X-ray suggested an enlargement of the right adrenal gland and the presence of a neoplasm, which was actually discovered during surgery. Histopathological examination revealed a well-defined neoplasm, without capsule invasion and with accentuated cell polymorphism. Histoenzymology showed that the tissue lacked the enzymatic system involving 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD). Indoxylesterase (I.EST-A) activity identified the tumor as originating from the internal layers of the adrenal cortex. The histochemical findings were correlated to the clinical picture and the levels of urinary 17-KS.", "PMID": 443047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5894", "title": "Affinity chromatography of influenza virus on immobilized alpha- and beta-ketosides of neuraminic acid derivatives.", "content": "In order to purify influenza viruses which contain neuraminidase as a constituent of the virus-coat surface, a study was made of the affinity of formaldehyde-inactivated viruses for immobilized ketosides of neruaminic acid derivatives. Attempted desorption of viruses bound to columns of the conjugates was performed by addition of the benzyl alpha-ketoside of N-acetylneuraminic acid to the eluent. The conjugates with alpha-ketosidically bound neuraminic acids adsorbed virus which could be desorbed with the enzyme substrate. When beta-ketosidically immobilized N-acetylneuraminic acid was saturated with virus and the conjugate was washed with buffer until it was free from neuraminidase activity, no more virus could be desorbed with neuraminidase substrate-containing eluents. However, addition of substrate to the buffer during the washing procedure resulted in a neuraminidase activity peak in the effluent. All conjugates bound firmly a portion of the viruses, which remained on the sorbents even after excessive treatment with eluent containing the neuraminidase substrate. When the conjugates were saturated with virus, all sites which bound the viruses strongly were blocked, and the remaining binding sites could be utilized for reversible adsorption of the viruses. Using this method, crude influenza virus vaccine could be separated into allantoic-fluid components and pure virus. Centrifugation of the virus preparation in a sucrose gradient indicated that this column procedure did not solubilize the viral neuraminidase. Using freshly prepared non-inactivated influenza virus, the portion of gel-bound viruses which could not be desorbed by neuraminidase substrate was diminished.", "contents": "Affinity chromatography of influenza virus on immobilized alpha- and beta-ketosides of neuraminic acid derivatives. In order to purify influenza viruses which contain neuraminidase as a constituent of the virus-coat surface, a study was made of the affinity of formaldehyde-inactivated viruses for immobilized ketosides of neruaminic acid derivatives. Attempted desorption of viruses bound to columns of the conjugates was performed by addition of the benzyl alpha-ketoside of N-acetylneuraminic acid to the eluent. The conjugates with alpha-ketosidically bound neuraminic acids adsorbed virus which could be desorbed with the enzyme substrate. When beta-ketosidically immobilized N-acetylneuraminic acid was saturated with virus and the conjugate was washed with buffer until it was free from neuraminidase activity, no more virus could be desorbed with neuraminidase substrate-containing eluents. However, addition of substrate to the buffer during the washing procedure resulted in a neuraminidase activity peak in the effluent. All conjugates bound firmly a portion of the viruses, which remained on the sorbents even after excessive treatment with eluent containing the neuraminidase substrate. When the conjugates were saturated with virus, all sites which bound the viruses strongly were blocked, and the remaining binding sites could be utilized for reversible adsorption of the viruses. Using this method, crude influenza virus vaccine could be separated into allantoic-fluid components and pure virus. Centrifugation of the virus preparation in a sucrose gradient indicated that this column procedure did not solubilize the viral neuraminidase. Using freshly prepared non-inactivated influenza virus, the portion of gel-bound viruses which could not be desorbed by neuraminidase substrate was diminished.", "PMID": 443048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5895", "title": "Cytotoxicity to tumour cells induced in human monocytes cultured in vitro in the presence of different sera.", "content": "Rodent macrophages can be stimulated in vivo and in vitro to become cytotoxic to neoplastic cells. It is shown in the present paper that cytotoxicity to a human tumour cell line is induced in human monocytes cultured in vitro in the presence of human serum. The cytotoxic ability is defined as including cytostatic ability, measured as inhibition of 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) incorporation in tumour cells, and cytocidal ability, measured as release of radioactivity from 3H-TdR-labelled tumour cells. Monocytes cultured in medium containing 25 per cent human serum (HS-M) developed both a cytostatic and a cytocidal ability. When tumour cells were separated from these monocytes by a membrane, allowing factor-mediated interactions, a cytostatic effect was found, thus indicating that secretion of soluble factor(s) may be an important mechanism. The development of cytotoxic ability in the monocytes was accompanied by development of high capacity for phagocytosis of 125I-labelled Candida albicans, increased protein synthesis in the monocytes and microscopically observed alteration into large, well-spread monocytes with accumulation of phase-dense granules in the perinuclear region. Culture of monocytes in the presence of bovine sera induced less cytotoxic and phagocytic ability, as well as a smaller increase in protein synthesis and less morphological alterations, as compared to culture in HS-M.", "contents": "Cytotoxicity to tumour cells induced in human monocytes cultured in vitro in the presence of different sera. Rodent macrophages can be stimulated in vivo and in vitro to become cytotoxic to neoplastic cells. It is shown in the present paper that cytotoxicity to a human tumour cell line is induced in human monocytes cultured in vitro in the presence of human serum. The cytotoxic ability is defined as including cytostatic ability, measured as inhibition of 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) incorporation in tumour cells, and cytocidal ability, measured as release of radioactivity from 3H-TdR-labelled tumour cells. Monocytes cultured in medium containing 25 per cent human serum (HS-M) developed both a cytostatic and a cytocidal ability. When tumour cells were separated from these monocytes by a membrane, allowing factor-mediated interactions, a cytostatic effect was found, thus indicating that secretion of soluble factor(s) may be an important mechanism. The development of cytotoxic ability in the monocytes was accompanied by development of high capacity for phagocytosis of 125I-labelled Candida albicans, increased protein synthesis in the monocytes and microscopically observed alteration into large, well-spread monocytes with accumulation of phase-dense granules in the perinuclear region. Culture of monocytes in the presence of bovine sera induced less cytotoxic and phagocytic ability, as well as a smaller increase in protein synthesis and less morphological alterations, as compared to culture in HS-M.", "PMID": 443049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5896", "title": "In vitro effect of R 17934, a new drug with antitubulin activity, on neutrophil granulocyte locomotion and orientation.", "content": "R 17934 is a new synthetic antimicrotubule drug, which binds to tubulin at the same site as does colchicine. The interaction of this drug with human neutrophil granulocyte locomotion and orientation was examined, using a modified reversible Boyden chamber and a gradient chamber offering a direct visual assay of cell orientation. R 17934 at concentrations as low as 5 x 10(-6) M was found to inhibit chemokinesis to an equal degree in gradient chambers, and in Boyden chambers using checkerboard experiments, in which the absolute concentrations and the concentration gradients of the chemotactic agent were varied. At higher concentrations (10(-5) M) R 17934 also inhibited chemotaxis in Boyden chambers. Much lower concentrations of R 17934 (10(-7) M) were found to affect the ability of neutrophils to orient in gradient chambers. This finding may show that filters form a more suitable substrate for oriented pseudopod formation of microtubule-deficient cells than do glass or plastic slides. In conclusion this study has provided evidence that in the absence of functioning microtubules neutrophils can still orient and migrate directionally towards the source of a concentration gradient, but that they do so less precisely. The finding that R 17934 inhibited chemokinesis suggests that this drug may interfere with the mechanism translating a recognition signal into locomotion. The previous finding that colchicine also had this effect supports the hypothesis that this process may be microtubule-dependent.", "contents": "In vitro effect of R 17934, a new drug with antitubulin activity, on neutrophil granulocyte locomotion and orientation. R 17934 is a new synthetic antimicrotubule drug, which binds to tubulin at the same site as does colchicine. The interaction of this drug with human neutrophil granulocyte locomotion and orientation was examined, using a modified reversible Boyden chamber and a gradient chamber offering a direct visual assay of cell orientation. R 17934 at concentrations as low as 5 x 10(-6) M was found to inhibit chemokinesis to an equal degree in gradient chambers, and in Boyden chambers using checkerboard experiments, in which the absolute concentrations and the concentration gradients of the chemotactic agent were varied. At higher concentrations (10(-5) M) R 17934 also inhibited chemotaxis in Boyden chambers. Much lower concentrations of R 17934 (10(-7) M) were found to affect the ability of neutrophils to orient in gradient chambers. This finding may show that filters form a more suitable substrate for oriented pseudopod formation of microtubule-deficient cells than do glass or plastic slides. In conclusion this study has provided evidence that in the absence of functioning microtubules neutrophils can still orient and migrate directionally towards the source of a concentration gradient, but that they do so less precisely. The finding that R 17934 inhibited chemokinesis suggests that this drug may interfere with the mechanism translating a recognition signal into locomotion. The previous finding that colchicine also had this effect supports the hypothesis that this process may be microtubule-dependent.", "PMID": 443050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5897", "title": "Purification and characterization of rabbit anti-mouse renin specific Fab fragments.", "content": "Antibodies, raised against pure renin from the submaxillary gland of mice, were used to obtain renin specific Fab fragments. The purification steps were DEAE-chromatography, followed by papain digestion with separation of the undigested IgG preparation from the Fab/Fc fragments on a Sephadex G-100 column. Finally the Fab fragments were subjected to affinity chromatography on a CH-Sepharose 4B column with submaxillary renin attached. The purified Fab fragments revealed only a single band in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and a single precipitation line in cross immunoelectrophoresis. The association constants for the reaction of renin with the purified Fab fragments compared to the divalent antibodies were of the same magnitude, 0.7 x 10(11) l/mol and 1.0 x 10(11) l/mol, respectively. Comparison of the affinity of the Fab fragments for the antigenic determinants and the enzymatic inhibition of renin were determined to be approximately the same. Thus, the pure specific immunoreactive Fab fragment of antirenin, with an inhibitor constant of 1.5 x 10(-11), is the most potent inhibitor of mouse renin, so far.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of rabbit anti-mouse renin specific Fab fragments. Antibodies, raised against pure renin from the submaxillary gland of mice, were used to obtain renin specific Fab fragments. The purification steps were DEAE-chromatography, followed by papain digestion with separation of the undigested IgG preparation from the Fab/Fc fragments on a Sephadex G-100 column. Finally the Fab fragments were subjected to affinity chromatography on a CH-Sepharose 4B column with submaxillary renin attached. The purified Fab fragments revealed only a single band in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and a single precipitation line in cross immunoelectrophoresis. The association constants for the reaction of renin with the purified Fab fragments compared to the divalent antibodies were of the same magnitude, 0.7 x 10(11) l/mol and 1.0 x 10(11) l/mol, respectively. Comparison of the affinity of the Fab fragments for the antigenic determinants and the enzymatic inhibition of renin were determined to be approximately the same. Thus, the pure specific immunoreactive Fab fragment of antirenin, with an inhibitor constant of 1.5 x 10(-11), is the most potent inhibitor of mouse renin, so far.", "PMID": 443051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5898", "title": "The Spitzbergen reindeer--a winter-dormant ungulate?", "content": "Seasonal changes in serum levels of growth hormone, cortisol and thyroxine in calves and adult Spitzbergen reindeer (Rangifer tarandus platyrynchus) were measured and compared to those previously found in Norwegian reindeer (R.t. tarandus). Cortisol did not differ significantly between summer and winter, or between the subspecies. Growth hormone and thyroxine exhibited highly significant seasonal changes and subspecific differences: winter levels of growth hormone were much higher than summer levels in the Spitzbergen reindeer, while Norwegian reindeer differed very little from season to season. Both Spitzbergen and Norwegian reindeer had markedly reduced thyroxine levels during winter, but the values from the former were much lower than those from the latter. In summer, however, the levels were equal. The high levels of growth hormone and low levels of thyroxine in the Spitzbergen reindeer during winter are indicative of high lipolytic activity and a reduced metabolic rate, respectively.", "contents": "The Spitzbergen reindeer--a winter-dormant ungulate? Seasonal changes in serum levels of growth hormone, cortisol and thyroxine in calves and adult Spitzbergen reindeer (Rangifer tarandus platyrynchus) were measured and compared to those previously found in Norwegian reindeer (R.t. tarandus). Cortisol did not differ significantly between summer and winter, or between the subspecies. Growth hormone and thyroxine exhibited highly significant seasonal changes and subspecific differences: winter levels of growth hormone were much higher than summer levels in the Spitzbergen reindeer, while Norwegian reindeer differed very little from season to season. Both Spitzbergen and Norwegian reindeer had markedly reduced thyroxine levels during winter, but the values from the former were much lower than those from the latter. In summer, however, the levels were equal. The high levels of growth hormone and low levels of thyroxine in the Spitzbergen reindeer during winter are indicative of high lipolytic activity and a reduced metabolic rate, respectively.", "PMID": 443058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5899", "title": "Apparent and true vascular resistances to flow in SHR and NCR kidneys as related to the pre/postglomerular resistance ratio.", "content": "In maximally vasodilated SHR and NCR kidneys, perfused with filtrable and non-filtrable perfusates, analyses have been performed concerning the extent of average renal tissue pressure (Pt) elevation which occurs upon glomerular filtration and causes passive autoregulation of flow. The results illustrate the great importance of distinguishing between 'apparent' (PA--PV/flow) and 'true' (PA--Pt/flow) renal resistance to flow. This is particularly so when the compared SHR and NCR renal vascular beds differ not only in true total renal resistance but also concerning the structurally determined ratio between the pre- and post-glomerular resistances. The combined results show that this ratio is considerably elevated in adults SHT kidneys because of structural vascular changes, which is perhaps the most efficient way of resetting the 'long term barostat function' of the kidneys in hypertension. It is also illustrated how the altered pre-/post-glomerular ratio in SHR in combination with Pt rises can so markedly distort the results of apparently precise in vitro comparisons of SHR and NCR renal vascular beds as to give entirely misleading results, with underestimations of the structurally based vascular hyperreactivity of the preglomerular section in SHR.", "contents": "Apparent and true vascular resistances to flow in SHR and NCR kidneys as related to the pre/postglomerular resistance ratio. In maximally vasodilated SHR and NCR kidneys, perfused with filtrable and non-filtrable perfusates, analyses have been performed concerning the extent of average renal tissue pressure (Pt) elevation which occurs upon glomerular filtration and causes passive autoregulation of flow. The results illustrate the great importance of distinguishing between 'apparent' (PA--PV/flow) and 'true' (PA--Pt/flow) renal resistance to flow. This is particularly so when the compared SHR and NCR renal vascular beds differ not only in true total renal resistance but also concerning the structurally determined ratio between the pre- and post-glomerular resistances. The combined results show that this ratio is considerably elevated in adults SHT kidneys because of structural vascular changes, which is perhaps the most efficient way of resetting the 'long term barostat function' of the kidneys in hypertension. It is also illustrated how the altered pre-/post-glomerular ratio in SHR in combination with Pt rises can so markedly distort the results of apparently precise in vitro comparisons of SHR and NCR renal vascular beds as to give entirely misleading results, with underestimations of the structurally based vascular hyperreactivity of the preglomerular section in SHR.", "PMID": 443059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5900", "title": "Cardiac receptors with non-medullated vagal afferents in the rat.", "content": "The characteristics of 22 atrial receptors in 15 normotensive adult male Wistar rats were investigated. All the receptor afferents were included in the C-fibre group with conduction velocities from 0.4 to 1.2 m/sec. No atrial medullated receptors or ventricular C-fibre endings were found. Two receptors were located in right atrium and 2 receptors throughout left atrium. Upon elevation of the left atrial pressure the receptor discharge was markedly elevated with thresholds from 2.5 to 9 mmHg in mean left atrial pressure. Ten of the atrial receptors displayed a clear cardiac rhythmicity upon activation and the discharge correlated with the v-wave, indicating distension as the cause of receptor activation. The maximal firing rate in most receptors was very high (up to 70 Hz), but 8 receptors had maximal firing rates below 25 Hz. These low frequency receptors had higher threshold and showed a more irregular firing. Thus, there is a substantial population of atrial receptors with vagal non-medullated afferents in the rat heart and the thresholds for many of these receptors are so low that they are likely to be active during normal conditions.", "contents": "Cardiac receptors with non-medullated vagal afferents in the rat. The characteristics of 22 atrial receptors in 15 normotensive adult male Wistar rats were investigated. All the receptor afferents were included in the C-fibre group with conduction velocities from 0.4 to 1.2 m/sec. No atrial medullated receptors or ventricular C-fibre endings were found. Two receptors were located in right atrium and 2 receptors throughout left atrium. Upon elevation of the left atrial pressure the receptor discharge was markedly elevated with thresholds from 2.5 to 9 mmHg in mean left atrial pressure. Ten of the atrial receptors displayed a clear cardiac rhythmicity upon activation and the discharge correlated with the v-wave, indicating distension as the cause of receptor activation. The maximal firing rate in most receptors was very high (up to 70 Hz), but 8 receptors had maximal firing rates below 25 Hz. These low frequency receptors had higher threshold and showed a more irregular firing. Thus, there is a substantial population of atrial receptors with vagal non-medullated afferents in the rat heart and the thresholds for many of these receptors are so low that they are likely to be active during normal conditions.", "PMID": 443060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5901", "title": "Hepatic portal vein infusion of glucose on sodium excretion in the rat.", "content": "Anesthetized rats were prepared with catheters in the hepatic portal (HPV) and femoral (FEM) veins and in the bladder or ureters. In some experiments the left kidney was denervated. HPV infusion of 1 M glucose at 2 ml/h for 20 min increased Na excretion by the kidney when given as a second infusion. Bilateral cervical vagotomy eliminated the increase in Na excretion during glucose infusion and uncovered a delayed decrease in Na and K excretion. Renal denervation attenuated the increase in Na excretion to HPV glucose. FEM infusion of glucose had variable effects, increasing Na excretion only after vagotomy. The results are interpreted to suggest that central and vagal receptors tend to enhance Na excretionwhereas splanchnic nerve afferents and humoral mediator(s) have the opposite effect.", "contents": "Hepatic portal vein infusion of glucose on sodium excretion in the rat. Anesthetized rats were prepared with catheters in the hepatic portal (HPV) and femoral (FEM) veins and in the bladder or ureters. In some experiments the left kidney was denervated. HPV infusion of 1 M glucose at 2 ml/h for 20 min increased Na excretion by the kidney when given as a second infusion. Bilateral cervical vagotomy eliminated the increase in Na excretion during glucose infusion and uncovered a delayed decrease in Na and K excretion. Renal denervation attenuated the increase in Na excretion to HPV glucose. FEM infusion of glucose had variable effects, increasing Na excretion only after vagotomy. The results are interpreted to suggest that central and vagal receptors tend to enhance Na excretionwhereas splanchnic nerve afferents and humoral mediator(s) have the opposite effect.", "PMID": 443061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5902", "title": "Lipoprotein-lipase activity of human skeletal-muscle and adipose tissue after intensive physical exercise.", "content": "Seven young, healthy subjects performed bicycle exercise with a working load leading to exhaustion after one hour of work. The tests were done in the afternoon in the fed state. The serum insulin concentrations decreased from 22 to 4 mU/l and plasma glucagon increased from 241 to 340 pg/l already after 30 min of work. The level of adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase activity (LPLA) did not fall as had been expected, but increased. The skeletal muscle LPLA was unchanged. The results indicate that during the first hour of heavy exercise the heparin-releasable LPLA in tissues is not influenced by the work induced changes in serum hormone levels.", "contents": "Lipoprotein-lipase activity of human skeletal-muscle and adipose tissue after intensive physical exercise. Seven young, healthy subjects performed bicycle exercise with a working load leading to exhaustion after one hour of work. The tests were done in the afternoon in the fed state. The serum insulin concentrations decreased from 22 to 4 mU/l and plasma glucagon increased from 241 to 340 pg/l already after 30 min of work. The level of adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase activity (LPLA) did not fall as had been expected, but increased. The skeletal muscle LPLA was unchanged. The results indicate that during the first hour of heavy exercise the heparin-releasable LPLA in tissues is not influenced by the work induced changes in serum hormone levels.", "PMID": 443062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5903", "title": "The effect of water temperature on the hormonal response to prolonged swimming.", "content": "The relationship between thermoreception, hormonal secretion and muscular activity was studied. 6 men swam 60 min in 21, 27 and 33 degrees C water at a speed requiring 68% of VO2 max (determined in 27 degrees C water). Rectal temperature increased in 33 degrees C (1.3 +/- 0.2 degrees C, mean and S.E.) and 27 degrees C (0.7+/- 0.1 degrees C) expts. but decreased in 21 degrees C expts. (0.8 +/- 0.3 degrees C). Changes in esophageal and muscle temperatures parallelled changes in rectal temperature. Plasma noradrenaline was higher in 33 degrees C than in 27 degrees C expts. and growth hormone, cortisol and glucagon concentrations increased in 27 degrees C and 33 degrees C expts. only. Insulin concentrations were uniformly depressed during swimming at the different water temperatures. In 21 degrees C expts. noradrenaline and adrenaline concentrations were higher than in 27 degrees C expts. VO2, carbohydrate combustion and peak lactate were slightly lower in 33 degrees C expts. Plasma glucose decreased slightly and FFA and glycerol concentrations increased identically in all expts. Heart rate increased continuously during swimming in 27 degrees C and 33 degrees C expts., but not in 21 degrees C expts. In conclusion the rise in body temperatures normally observed during exercise enhances the exercise induced increases in the plasma concentrations of noradrenaline, cortisol, growth hormone and glucagon. Decreased body temperatures may elicit catecholamine secretion as a direct consequence of thermoreception. Shivering may account for previously observed decreases in insulin secretion during cold stress but not for increases in cortisol and growth hormone.", "contents": "The effect of water temperature on the hormonal response to prolonged swimming. The relationship between thermoreception, hormonal secretion and muscular activity was studied. 6 men swam 60 min in 21, 27 and 33 degrees C water at a speed requiring 68% of VO2 max (determined in 27 degrees C water). Rectal temperature increased in 33 degrees C (1.3 +/- 0.2 degrees C, mean and S.E.) and 27 degrees C (0.7+/- 0.1 degrees C) expts. but decreased in 21 degrees C expts. (0.8 +/- 0.3 degrees C). Changes in esophageal and muscle temperatures parallelled changes in rectal temperature. Plasma noradrenaline was higher in 33 degrees C than in 27 degrees C expts. and growth hormone, cortisol and glucagon concentrations increased in 27 degrees C and 33 degrees C expts. only. Insulin concentrations were uniformly depressed during swimming at the different water temperatures. In 21 degrees C expts. noradrenaline and adrenaline concentrations were higher than in 27 degrees C expts. VO2, carbohydrate combustion and peak lactate were slightly lower in 33 degrees C expts. Plasma glucose decreased slightly and FFA and glycerol concentrations increased identically in all expts. Heart rate increased continuously during swimming in 27 degrees C and 33 degrees C expts., but not in 21 degrees C expts. In conclusion the rise in body temperatures normally observed during exercise enhances the exercise induced increases in the plasma concentrations of noradrenaline, cortisol, growth hormone and glucagon. Decreased body temperatures may elicit catecholamine secretion as a direct consequence of thermoreception. Shivering may account for previously observed decreases in insulin secretion during cold stress but not for increases in cortisol and growth hormone.", "PMID": 443063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5904", "title": "Release of 3H-noradrenaline from the rat vas deferens under various in vitro conditions.", "content": "The release of 3H-(-)-noradrenaline (NA) from rat vas deferens in vitro was examined under various experimental conditions. It was found that in normal and reserpinized vas deferens the release of NA evoked by (+)-amphetamine (5 X 10(-6) M) or low external Na+ (26 mM) was antagonized by imipramine methiodide and desipramine, inhibitors of the NA uptake, but was not dependent on the presence of Ca2+ in the medium and was not antagonized by the potent local anaesthetic agent bethoxycaine. The release evoked by veratridine in reserpinized tissue was antagonized by the uptake inhibitors but was in normal tissue only partially inhibited in presence of Ca2+ but almost completely in absence of Ca2+. The release by high K+ (117 mM)+low Na+ (26 mM) in normal tissue was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ and was antagonized by the muscarinic agonists carbacholine and metacholine and by high concentrations of desipramine. In the reserpinized vasa the corresponding release was not dependent on Ca2+ and was not antagonized by the muscarinic agents but was inhibited by high concentrations of desipramine.", "contents": "Release of 3H-noradrenaline from the rat vas deferens under various in vitro conditions. The release of 3H-(-)-noradrenaline (NA) from rat vas deferens in vitro was examined under various experimental conditions. It was found that in normal and reserpinized vas deferens the release of NA evoked by (+)-amphetamine (5 X 10(-6) M) or low external Na+ (26 mM) was antagonized by imipramine methiodide and desipramine, inhibitors of the NA uptake, but was not dependent on the presence of Ca2+ in the medium and was not antagonized by the potent local anaesthetic agent bethoxycaine. The release evoked by veratridine in reserpinized tissue was antagonized by the uptake inhibitors but was in normal tissue only partially inhibited in presence of Ca2+ but almost completely in absence of Ca2+. The release by high K+ (117 mM)+low Na+ (26 mM) in normal tissue was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ and was antagonized by the muscarinic agonists carbacholine and metacholine and by high concentrations of desipramine. In the reserpinized vasa the corresponding release was not dependent on Ca2+ and was not antagonized by the muscarinic agents but was inhibited by high concentrations of desipramine.", "PMID": 443064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5905", "title": "Different effects of furosemide on urinary excretion of prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha in rabbits.", "content": "The effect of a constant infusion of furosemide (130 micrograms/min i.v. for 60 min, n = 8) was studied on urinary excretion of water, electrolytes and immunoreactive prostaglandin E2 (iPGE2) and iPGF2alpha in chloralose-urethane anesthetized rabbits. During the furosemide infusion sodium and water excretion increased ten-fold and the excretion of potassium and iPGE2 two to three times. The excretion of iPGF2alpha (0.06 +/- 0.03 micrograms/min/100 g kidney weight) was not significantly changed during the furosemide infusion but increased markedly after the infusion and reached a maximum (1.0 +/- 0.6 microgram/min/100 g) 30 to 45 min later, while the small increase in iPGE2 excretion at this time could be attributed to cross-reaction with PGF2alpha. The results indicate that PGE2 might possibly be involved directly in the action of furosemide, while PGF2alpha might participate in sodium and water conserving mechanisms in the rabbit kidney, activated by the drug induced diuresis.", "contents": "Different effects of furosemide on urinary excretion of prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha in rabbits. The effect of a constant infusion of furosemide (130 micrograms/min i.v. for 60 min, n = 8) was studied on urinary excretion of water, electrolytes and immunoreactive prostaglandin E2 (iPGE2) and iPGF2alpha in chloralose-urethane anesthetized rabbits. During the furosemide infusion sodium and water excretion increased ten-fold and the excretion of potassium and iPGE2 two to three times. The excretion of iPGF2alpha (0.06 +/- 0.03 micrograms/min/100 g kidney weight) was not significantly changed during the furosemide infusion but increased markedly after the infusion and reached a maximum (1.0 +/- 0.6 microgram/min/100 g) 30 to 45 min later, while the small increase in iPGE2 excretion at this time could be attributed to cross-reaction with PGF2alpha. The results indicate that PGE2 might possibly be involved directly in the action of furosemide, while PGF2alpha might participate in sodium and water conserving mechanisms in the rabbit kidney, activated by the drug induced diuresis.", "PMID": 443065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5906", "title": "Fasting and prolonged exercise increase vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in plasma.", "content": "6 young men had venous blood drawn during 4 experiments. The concentration of VIP in plasma increased markedly (from 1.8 (0--4.5) to 22.3 (7.8--43.8) pmol.1(-1), mean and range) during 3 h of mild bicycle exercise but not at all during an equivalent period of rest or during short term submaximal and maximal exercise. During 59 h of fasting, VIP increased from 3.6 (0.6--6.6) to 10.2 (6.6--13.8) pmol.1(-1) (p less than 0.05). The concentration of glucose in plasma decreased significantly during the prolonged exercise as well as during fasting. The known metabolic actions of VIP and the demonstrated increases in its plasma concentration during negative energy balance indicate that VIP is \"a polypeptide of substrate need\".", "contents": "Fasting and prolonged exercise increase vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in plasma. 6 young men had venous blood drawn during 4 experiments. The concentration of VIP in plasma increased markedly (from 1.8 (0--4.5) to 22.3 (7.8--43.8) pmol.1(-1), mean and range) during 3 h of mild bicycle exercise but not at all during an equivalent period of rest or during short term submaximal and maximal exercise. During 59 h of fasting, VIP increased from 3.6 (0.6--6.6) to 10.2 (6.6--13.8) pmol.1(-1) (p less than 0.05). The concentration of glucose in plasma decreased significantly during the prolonged exercise as well as during fasting. The known metabolic actions of VIP and the demonstrated increases in its plasma concentration during negative energy balance indicate that VIP is \"a polypeptide of substrate need\".", "PMID": 443066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5907", "title": "A simple test for autonomic neuropathy in juvenile diabetics.", "content": "The reproducibility of a simple method for determining the beat-to-beat variation during maximal respiration (duration of inspiration = duration of expiration = 5 sec), using an ordinary ECG apparatus and a ruler, was tested in 10 normals and 40 insulin-treated diabetics. The results were reproducible and beat-to-beat variation was found to be independent of a 25-minute period of rest. The method was subsequently applied to 126 insulin-treated diabetics and the results are in accordance with previous investigations on cardiac vagal neuropathy. The method is applicable as a clinical routine test for cardiac vagal neuropathy.", "contents": "A simple test for autonomic neuropathy in juvenile diabetics. The reproducibility of a simple method for determining the beat-to-beat variation during maximal respiration (duration of inspiration = duration of expiration = 5 sec), using an ordinary ECG apparatus and a ruler, was tested in 10 normals and 40 insulin-treated diabetics. The results were reproducible and beat-to-beat variation was found to be independent of a 25-minute period of rest. The method was subsequently applied to 126 insulin-treated diabetics and the results are in accordance with previous investigations on cardiac vagal neuropathy. The method is applicable as a clinical routine test for cardiac vagal neuropathy.", "PMID": 443076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5908", "title": "Effect of clinical bed rest for seven days on physical performance.", "content": "Twenty-two healthy men were confined to bed in a hospital ward (clinical bed rest) for one week. Variables related to physical fitness were measured before and immediately after the bed rest period, as well as one and three months thereafter. As a result of bed rest, maximal oxygen uptake, W170 and total Hb decreased to 94%, and calculated blood volume to 93% of the initial value. Hb concentration and Hct were unaltered. Thus, red cell and plasma volumes were proportionately reduced. No significant orthostatic dysfunction developed. The blood lactate peak at maximum work remained unchanged (14.0 mM/l). The resting exertion of noradrenaline decreased moderately during the bed rest period, whilst that of adrenaline was unchanged. Body weight decreased by a mean of 0.7 kg.", "contents": "Effect of clinical bed rest for seven days on physical performance. Twenty-two healthy men were confined to bed in a hospital ward (clinical bed rest) for one week. Variables related to physical fitness were measured before and immediately after the bed rest period, as well as one and three months thereafter. As a result of bed rest, maximal oxygen uptake, W170 and total Hb decreased to 94%, and calculated blood volume to 93% of the initial value. Hb concentration and Hct were unaltered. Thus, red cell and plasma volumes were proportionately reduced. No significant orthostatic dysfunction developed. The blood lactate peak at maximum work remained unchanged (14.0 mM/l). The resting exertion of noradrenaline decreased moderately during the bed rest period, whilst that of adrenaline was unchanged. Body weight decreased by a mean of 0.7 kg.", "PMID": 443077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5909", "title": "Self-therapy for haemophilia in Norway. Effect on transfusion frequency and days lost from work.", "content": "During the years 1975--77, 35 patients with haemophilia A or B (factor level of 1% or less) were instructed to administer concentrates of the deficient factor (mean dose 14 U/kg) i.v. in case of episodic, uncomplicated bleedings without prior consultation with a physician. At Dec. 1977, 33 of these patients (29 with haemophilia A, 4 with B) were taking part in the program. They represent 35% of all Norwegian patients above 7 years of age with severe haemophilia in whom high-titered antibodies have not been demonstrated. For 13 patients, records from 2 years on self-therapy have been compared with records from the last year before self-therapy. During the first year on self-therapy the number of days lost from work dropped by 77%, while the number of transfusions increased by 22%. During the second year, days lost from work were still low (68% decrease compared to the year preceding self-therapy) and the transfusion frequency remained unchanged. Significant side-effects of antihaemophilic concentrates were not observed and vein damage was not a problem. Joint motion studies did not indicate progress of haemophilic arthropathy during self-therapy. Properly supervised self-therapy is practical and safe and improves considerably to quality of life.", "contents": "Self-therapy for haemophilia in Norway. Effect on transfusion frequency and days lost from work. During the years 1975--77, 35 patients with haemophilia A or B (factor level of 1% or less) were instructed to administer concentrates of the deficient factor (mean dose 14 U/kg) i.v. in case of episodic, uncomplicated bleedings without prior consultation with a physician. At Dec. 1977, 33 of these patients (29 with haemophilia A, 4 with B) were taking part in the program. They represent 35% of all Norwegian patients above 7 years of age with severe haemophilia in whom high-titered antibodies have not been demonstrated. For 13 patients, records from 2 years on self-therapy have been compared with records from the last year before self-therapy. During the first year on self-therapy the number of days lost from work dropped by 77%, while the number of transfusions increased by 22%. During the second year, days lost from work were still low (68% decrease compared to the year preceding self-therapy) and the transfusion frequency remained unchanged. Significant side-effects of antihaemophilic concentrates were not observed and vein damage was not a problem. Joint motion studies did not indicate progress of haemophilic arthropathy during self-therapy. Properly supervised self-therapy is practical and safe and improves considerably to quality of life.", "PMID": 443078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5910", "title": "Biochemical variables related to calcium metabolism in epileptics.", "content": "Five biochemical variables, S-Ca, U-Ca, S-P, U-P and S-ALP, all involved in calcium metabolism, have been investigated in 86 epileptics on long-term medication. We found hypocalciuria in half of the epileptics and increased S-ALP in one third. In contrast to earlier reports there was no hypocalcemia, whereas hypercalcemia was found in 7 epileptics. We have previously reported a high frequency of fractures in these epileptics. An increased fracture rate was found in the 13 epileptics with both hypocalciuria and increased S-ALP, indicating osteomalacia.", "contents": "Biochemical variables related to calcium metabolism in epileptics. Five biochemical variables, S-Ca, U-Ca, S-P, U-P and S-ALP, all involved in calcium metabolism, have been investigated in 86 epileptics on long-term medication. We found hypocalciuria in half of the epileptics and increased S-ALP in one third. In contrast to earlier reports there was no hypocalcemia, whereas hypercalcemia was found in 7 epileptics. We have previously reported a high frequency of fractures in these epileptics. An increased fracture rate was found in the 13 epileptics with both hypocalciuria and increased S-ALP, indicating osteomalacia.", "PMID": 443079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5911", "title": "Fractional intestinal calcium absorption in epileptics on anticonvulsant therapy. Short-term effect of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol.", "content": "Fractional intestinal 47Ca calcium absorption (alpha) in 12 epileptic outpatients receiving chronic high-dose anticonvulsant therapy was reduced (p less than 0.05) compared to 12 matched normal controls. Six of the epileptics were treated orally with 0.5 microgram of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) per day and six with 10 microgram of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-HCC) per day for 10 days. The alpha was determined before and after treatment and compared with the effect of 0.5 microgram of 1,25-DHCC per day given for 10 days to 6 controls. An increase of the same order in alpha was found in all groups (p less than 0.05). No changes were observed in the serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase or iPTH during treatment. Urinary calcium excretion was low in the epileptic patients and rose during treatment. The investigation demonstrates that the sensitivity of the intestine to 1,25-DHCC is normal in epileptic patients on anticonvulsant therapy and that 1,25-DHCC and 25-HCC in the given doses had an equal effect on the reduced intestinal calcium absorption.", "contents": "Fractional intestinal calcium absorption in epileptics on anticonvulsant therapy. Short-term effect of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. Fractional intestinal 47Ca calcium absorption (alpha) in 12 epileptic outpatients receiving chronic high-dose anticonvulsant therapy was reduced (p less than 0.05) compared to 12 matched normal controls. Six of the epileptics were treated orally with 0.5 microgram of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-DHCC) per day and six with 10 microgram of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-HCC) per day for 10 days. The alpha was determined before and after treatment and compared with the effect of 0.5 microgram of 1,25-DHCC per day given for 10 days to 6 controls. An increase of the same order in alpha was found in all groups (p less than 0.05). No changes were observed in the serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase or iPTH during treatment. Urinary calcium excretion was low in the epileptic patients and rose during treatment. The investigation demonstrates that the sensitivity of the intestine to 1,25-DHCC is normal in epileptic patients on anticonvulsant therapy and that 1,25-DHCC and 25-HCC in the given doses had an equal effect on the reduced intestinal calcium absorption.", "PMID": 443080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5912", "title": "Mexiletine in treatment of ventricular arrhythmias. A long-term follow-up.", "content": "Maxiletine, a new drug effective in the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, was given to 20 patients for approximately 2 years. The study was designed to investigate the nature and prevalence of side-effects during long-term therapy, and the degree of correlation between such effects and the serum levels of the drug. The methodology used to determine the serum level is described. Mexiletine was well tolerated and serious side-effects were not seen. In particular, antinuclear factor was not detected during the treatment period. The serum level of mexiletine was easily maintained within the therapeutic range, and most side-effects correlated closely with the drug level. Mexiletine appears to be an effective alternative to currently available antiarrhythmic agents.", "contents": "Mexiletine in treatment of ventricular arrhythmias. A long-term follow-up. Maxiletine, a new drug effective in the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, was given to 20 patients for approximately 2 years. The study was designed to investigate the nature and prevalence of side-effects during long-term therapy, and the degree of correlation between such effects and the serum levels of the drug. The methodology used to determine the serum level is described. Mexiletine was well tolerated and serious side-effects were not seen. In particular, antinuclear factor was not detected during the treatment period. The serum level of mexiletine was easily maintained within the therapeutic range, and most side-effects correlated closely with the drug level. Mexiletine appears to be an effective alternative to currently available antiarrhythmic agents.", "PMID": 443081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5913", "title": "Kinetics of hemodynamic and electrocardiographic changes following intravenous disopyramide.", "content": "Changes in hemodynamic and ECG variables following disopyramide (1.7 mg = 3.9 mmol/kg b.wt.) were studied in 9 patients with ventricular arrhythmias. All patients displayed a marked reduction in the number of ventricular ectopic beats, all except one exhibiting complete abolition of the arrhythmia for at least 30 min. QT and QRS intervals showed statistically significant prolongations, and thereafter decreased exponentially with time. Above a certain concentration threshold that varied between the patients, systolic time intervals and aortic (dp/dt)max showed linear changes with increasing drug serum levels. Changes in diastolic pulmonary artery pressure showed no simple relationship with disopyramide concentration or time after injection. In 3 out of 4 patients studied, there was a good correlation between the lowest level of disopyramide that elicited both an antiarrhythmic effect and a demonstrable decrease in cardiac contractility.", "contents": "Kinetics of hemodynamic and electrocardiographic changes following intravenous disopyramide. Changes in hemodynamic and ECG variables following disopyramide (1.7 mg = 3.9 mmol/kg b.wt.) were studied in 9 patients with ventricular arrhythmias. All patients displayed a marked reduction in the number of ventricular ectopic beats, all except one exhibiting complete abolition of the arrhythmia for at least 30 min. QT and QRS intervals showed statistically significant prolongations, and thereafter decreased exponentially with time. Above a certain concentration threshold that varied between the patients, systolic time intervals and aortic (dp/dt)max showed linear changes with increasing drug serum levels. Changes in diastolic pulmonary artery pressure showed no simple relationship with disopyramide concentration or time after injection. In 3 out of 4 patients studied, there was a good correlation between the lowest level of disopyramide that elicited both an antiarrhythmic effect and a demonstrable decrease in cardiac contractility.", "PMID": 443082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5914", "title": "Arrhythmias in patients with acute cerebrovascular disease.", "content": "Cardiac disease is common in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and cerebral lesions as such may influence cardiac activity and rhythm. To study the indication for continuous ECG surveillance of patients with CVD, 100 consecutive patients admitted to a medical stroke unit were investigated with 24-hour Holter recordings. The patients' mean age was 73 years and 70% of them had a history of heart disease. Twenty-three patients had chronic atrial fibrillation and 55% of the remainder showed ventricular ectopic activity. Serious ventricular arrhythmias were comparatively rare and mainly seen in association with signs of congestive heart failure and acute myocardial infarction. A prolonged Q-T interval was registered in two-thirds of the patients but there was no significant association between this finding and ventricular ectopic activity. Close observation for cardiac complications is important in patients with CVD and continuous ECG surveillance is indicated in selected high-risk patients.", "contents": "Arrhythmias in patients with acute cerebrovascular disease. Cardiac disease is common in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and cerebral lesions as such may influence cardiac activity and rhythm. To study the indication for continuous ECG surveillance of patients with CVD, 100 consecutive patients admitted to a medical stroke unit were investigated with 24-hour Holter recordings. The patients' mean age was 73 years and 70% of them had a history of heart disease. Twenty-three patients had chronic atrial fibrillation and 55% of the remainder showed ventricular ectopic activity. Serious ventricular arrhythmias were comparatively rare and mainly seen in association with signs of congestive heart failure and acute myocardial infarction. A prolonged Q-T interval was registered in two-thirds of the patients but there was no significant association between this finding and ventricular ectopic activity. Close observation for cardiac complications is important in patients with CVD and continuous ECG surveillance is indicated in selected high-risk patients.", "PMID": 443083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5915", "title": "Temporal arteritis--progressive affection of vision during high-level corticosteroid therapy. A case report.", "content": "A case of giant cell arteritis (temporal arteritis) is presented in a 73-year-old male patient in whom lasting reduction of vision developed during high-level prednisone treatment (60 mg daily) at a time when clinical improvement in other respects had appeared.", "contents": "Temporal arteritis--progressive affection of vision during high-level corticosteroid therapy. A case report. A case of giant cell arteritis (temporal arteritis) is presented in a 73-year-old male patient in whom lasting reduction of vision developed during high-level prednisone treatment (60 mg daily) at a time when clinical improvement in other respects had appeared.", "PMID": 443085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5916", "title": "Adolescent and postadolescent asthmatics' perception of their mothers as overcontrolling in childhood.", "content": "One of us (HSR) reported that adolescent and postadolescent patients with well-controlled bronchial asthma coming to a university health services clinic were more likely to arrive late for an appointment, or not to show up for it at all, than non-allergic healthy patients, patients with perennial rhinitis, patients with seasonal rhinitis, or patients being investigated for cardiac disease. He wondered whether such behavior might be a reaction against an overcontrolling mother. To determine whether patients with bronchial asthma perceived their mothers as having overcontrolled them in their childhood, we asked adolescent and postadolescent patients coming to a university health services clinic to answer a questionnaire anonymously. Three disease groups were studied: 1) bronchial asthma, 2) perennial rhinitis, 3) seasonal rhinitis; and a group of non-allergic healthy controls. Asthmatics significantly more often than the other groups reported that when they were children their mothers (but not their fathers) had overcontrolled them (p less than .001).", "contents": "Adolescent and postadolescent asthmatics' perception of their mothers as overcontrolling in childhood. One of us (HSR) reported that adolescent and postadolescent patients with well-controlled bronchial asthma coming to a university health services clinic were more likely to arrive late for an appointment, or not to show up for it at all, than non-allergic healthy patients, patients with perennial rhinitis, patients with seasonal rhinitis, or patients being investigated for cardiac disease. He wondered whether such behavior might be a reaction against an overcontrolling mother. To determine whether patients with bronchial asthma perceived their mothers as having overcontrolled them in their childhood, we asked adolescent and postadolescent patients coming to a university health services clinic to answer a questionnaire anonymously. Three disease groups were studied: 1) bronchial asthma, 2) perennial rhinitis, 3) seasonal rhinitis; and a group of non-allergic healthy controls. Asthmatics significantly more often than the other groups reported that when they were children their mothers (but not their fathers) had overcontrolled them (p less than .001).", "PMID": 443091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5917", "title": "Parent-peer influence as a predictor of marijuana use.", "content": "Although there is some literature which discusses adolescent reference groups, none have utilized reference group theory to examine the relative impact of the parent and peer reference groups and to attempt to predict behavior among teenagers from this knowledge. This study attempts to correct this deficiency by examining the frequency of marijuana use in a nonrandom sample of college students from a large southwestern university. Ordinal type scales and tau-b provide a statistically strong degree of association between the type of reference group orientation and marijuana use. The results of this study show that the influence of the most salient reference group appears to be an important predictor of whether or not an individual may engage in the use of marijuana.", "contents": "Parent-peer influence as a predictor of marijuana use. Although there is some literature which discusses adolescent reference groups, none have utilized reference group theory to examine the relative impact of the parent and peer reference groups and to attempt to predict behavior among teenagers from this knowledge. This study attempts to correct this deficiency by examining the frequency of marijuana use in a nonrandom sample of college students from a large southwestern university. Ordinal type scales and tau-b provide a statistically strong degree of association between the type of reference group orientation and marijuana use. The results of this study show that the influence of the most salient reference group appears to be an important predictor of whether or not an individual may engage in the use of marijuana.", "PMID": 443092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5918", "title": "Factors in adolescent rebellious feelings.", "content": "To verify the existence and determine some sources of 15- and 16-year-old youths' (midteens') antisocial feelings, 174 midteens (89 males and 85 females) from two small Tennessee towns were administered L. Srole's Anomia Scale and two author-devised tests, the Inventory of Midteen Rearing Theories and the Rebellion Scale. As their parents' levels of education rose, midteens' feelings of anomie and rebellion decreased significantly: fathers F (3, 160) = 4.77,p less than .01; mothers F (3, 163) = 2.77, p less than .05. Midteen feelings of anomie and rebellion correlated positively with midteen perception of parent-midteen disagreement about how the midteen should be reared: Anomia r (172) = .25, p less than .01; Rebellion r (172) = .37, p less than .01. Probable causes of extremely rebellious feelings in midteens include parent-midteen conflict over how the midteen should be reared and the midteen's rejection of attending school as a worthwhile occupation.", "contents": "Factors in adolescent rebellious feelings. To verify the existence and determine some sources of 15- and 16-year-old youths' (midteens') antisocial feelings, 174 midteens (89 males and 85 females) from two small Tennessee towns were administered L. Srole's Anomia Scale and two author-devised tests, the Inventory of Midteen Rearing Theories and the Rebellion Scale. As their parents' levels of education rose, midteens' feelings of anomie and rebellion decreased significantly: fathers F (3, 160) = 4.77,p less than .01; mothers F (3, 163) = 2.77, p less than .05. Midteen feelings of anomie and rebellion correlated positively with midteen perception of parent-midteen disagreement about how the midteen should be reared: Anomia r (172) = .25, p less than .01; Rebellion r (172) = .37, p less than .01. Probable causes of extremely rebellious feelings in midteens include parent-midteen conflict over how the midteen should be reared and the midteen's rejection of attending school as a worthwhile occupation.", "PMID": 443093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5919", "title": "The effects of self-management of school attendance by problem adolescents.", "content": "Self-management of attendance by problem adolescents was shown to improve attendance in an alternative school. The use of biased measures to investigate change is discussed as well as the utility of frequent measures. The effect of improved attendance on academics is presented and future research in this area is suggested.", "contents": "The effects of self-management of school attendance by problem adolescents. Self-management of attendance by problem adolescents was shown to improve attendance in an alternative school. The use of biased measures to investigate change is discussed as well as the utility of frequent measures. The effect of improved attendance on academics is presented and future research in this area is suggested.", "PMID": 443094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5920", "title": "Sociological correlates of alienation among adolescent suicide attempts.", "content": "The purpose of this research is to assess the relationship between adolescent alienation and a number of sociological factors in a sample adolescent suicide attempts from a northern metropolitan area. First, Dean's alienation scale is employed and the distribution of responses of the adolescent suicide attempts are analyzed. Second a number of sociological variables are examined by means of multiple regression procedures. In the regression analysis, eight variables were found to be statistically significant-in descending order: social contact with peers in the neighborhood, conflict with parents, broken romance, economic status of parents, communication blockage with parents, school performance, stepparents, and broken romance, These variables have been salient in previous research and theorizing about adolescent suicidal behavior. The fact that adolescence, by itself, seems to be a good predictor of whether or not a person will attempt suicide strongly suggests that there is something about the condition of adolescence which underlies this type of behavior. One possibility is that biological maturation is itself the crucial variable. Alternatively, the argument which follows concentrates on a major sociological aspect of adolescence-the adolescent's relative alienation from institutionalized social life. Alienation may be endemic to the period of adolescence.", "contents": "Sociological correlates of alienation among adolescent suicide attempts. The purpose of this research is to assess the relationship between adolescent alienation and a number of sociological factors in a sample adolescent suicide attempts from a northern metropolitan area. First, Dean's alienation scale is employed and the distribution of responses of the adolescent suicide attempts are analyzed. Second a number of sociological variables are examined by means of multiple regression procedures. In the regression analysis, eight variables were found to be statistically significant-in descending order: social contact with peers in the neighborhood, conflict with parents, broken romance, economic status of parents, communication blockage with parents, school performance, stepparents, and broken romance, These variables have been salient in previous research and theorizing about adolescent suicidal behavior. The fact that adolescence, by itself, seems to be a good predictor of whether or not a person will attempt suicide strongly suggests that there is something about the condition of adolescence which underlies this type of behavior. One possibility is that biological maturation is itself the crucial variable. Alternatively, the argument which follows concentrates on a major sociological aspect of adolescence-the adolescent's relative alienation from institutionalized social life. Alienation may be endemic to the period of adolescence.", "PMID": 443095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5921", "title": "Self-esteem and institutionalized delinquent offenders: the role of background characteristics.", "content": "Some of the delinquency literature sustains the assumption that inept persons doing unworthy things is the self-view held by youth offenders, \"Disadvantaged\" or \"adverse\" background characteristics are often assumed to account for low self-esteem among delinquent offenders. However, the implications of control theory suggest that youths having few bonds to people and institutions are relatively \"free\" to drift into delinquency without serious damage to self-esteem. The hypothesis we examined was derived from the work of control theorists: that self-esteem would be higher for offenders \"removed\" from conventional ties, lower for those who maintained conventional attachments. Data from 75 male delinquent offenders incarcerated at a correctional youth institution are used in testing this relationship. Our hypothesis received strong support. The implication drawn from these results is that the impact of the correctional process on self-esteem may be far less important than the myriad relationships previously established with people and institutions. These results pertaining to a special category of youth are in keeping with the reported findings on the link between deprivation and self-esteem of general youth populations.", "contents": "Self-esteem and institutionalized delinquent offenders: the role of background characteristics. Some of the delinquency literature sustains the assumption that inept persons doing unworthy things is the self-view held by youth offenders, \"Disadvantaged\" or \"adverse\" background characteristics are often assumed to account for low self-esteem among delinquent offenders. However, the implications of control theory suggest that youths having few bonds to people and institutions are relatively \"free\" to drift into delinquency without serious damage to self-esteem. The hypothesis we examined was derived from the work of control theorists: that self-esteem would be higher for offenders \"removed\" from conventional ties, lower for those who maintained conventional attachments. Data from 75 male delinquent offenders incarcerated at a correctional youth institution are used in testing this relationship. Our hypothesis received strong support. The implication drawn from these results is that the impact of the correctional process on self-esteem may be far less important than the myriad relationships previously established with people and institutions. These results pertaining to a special category of youth are in keeping with the reported findings on the link between deprivation and self-esteem of general youth populations.", "PMID": 443096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5922", "title": "Internal control and success orientation in a token economy for emotionally disturbed adolescents.", "content": "Forty-one emotionally disturbed adolescents were tested at each of three token economy levels on Rotter's Internal-External Locus of Control Scale and Guevar's Success-Failure Inventory. Delay of reinforcement (immediate, daily, weekly) was the primary differentiation between levels. One-way analyses of variance indicated a change across levels in the direction of more perceived internal control of behavior (p less than .025) and a greater success orientation (p less than .005). Change scores were not correlated with length of time in the program. Results suggest that the token economy as an external source of control is not necessarily incompatible with increasing patient expectancies of present and future control of the environment.", "contents": "Internal control and success orientation in a token economy for emotionally disturbed adolescents. Forty-one emotionally disturbed adolescents were tested at each of three token economy levels on Rotter's Internal-External Locus of Control Scale and Guevar's Success-Failure Inventory. Delay of reinforcement (immediate, daily, weekly) was the primary differentiation between levels. One-way analyses of variance indicated a change across levels in the direction of more perceived internal control of behavior (p less than .025) and a greater success orientation (p less than .005). Change scores were not correlated with length of time in the program. Results suggest that the token economy as an external source of control is not necessarily incompatible with increasing patient expectancies of present and future control of the environment.", "PMID": 443097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5923", "title": "Creative thinking and juvenile delinquency: a study of delinquent and nondelinquent youth on the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking.", "content": "Using the T.T.C.T. this study examined the creative thinking of 32 delinquent and 32 nondelinquent adolescent males. The delinquent group was composed of juveniles on parole status. The nondelinquent group was composed of public school students. On the variables of IQ, age, and socioeconomic class, t-test results indicated no significant differences, except on socioeconomic class, between the groups. Analysis of variance procedures were performed to determine the possibility of an interaction between levels of intelligence and delinquent status with regard to verbal and figural creativity test scores. There were no significant main effects or interaction between IQ and adjudication status with respect to figural creativity. There was a significant main effect due to adjudication status for the dependent variable of verbal creativity scores, respectively while blocking on the intelligence variable. The results were parallel to the ANOVAS which did not specifically control for the intelligence variable between the two groups.", "contents": "Creative thinking and juvenile delinquency: a study of delinquent and nondelinquent youth on the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking. Using the T.T.C.T. this study examined the creative thinking of 32 delinquent and 32 nondelinquent adolescent males. The delinquent group was composed of juveniles on parole status. The nondelinquent group was composed of public school students. On the variables of IQ, age, and socioeconomic class, t-test results indicated no significant differences, except on socioeconomic class, between the groups. Analysis of variance procedures were performed to determine the possibility of an interaction between levels of intelligence and delinquent status with regard to verbal and figural creativity test scores. There were no significant main effects or interaction between IQ and adjudication status with respect to figural creativity. There was a significant main effect due to adjudication status for the dependent variable of verbal creativity scores, respectively while blocking on the intelligence variable. The results were parallel to the ANOVAS which did not specifically control for the intelligence variable between the two groups.", "PMID": 443098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5924", "title": "Developmental aspects of hopelessness.", "content": "Developmental aspects of hopelessness were studied within a holistic-organismic framework. It is suggested that for an individual to become hopeless, cognitive-affective development and the development of the concept of time have to reach a certain level. The developmental readiness to experience hopelessness is considered necessary for an adolescent to present a clinical picture of depression similar to that of the adult.", "contents": "Developmental aspects of hopelessness. Developmental aspects of hopelessness were studied within a holistic-organismic framework. It is suggested that for an individual to become hopeless, cognitive-affective development and the development of the concept of time have to reach a certain level. The developmental readiness to experience hopelessness is considered necessary for an adolescent to present a clinical picture of depression similar to that of the adult.", "PMID": 443099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5925", "title": "Sexual identity and personality variables in normal and disturbed adolescent girls.", "content": "Disturbed and normal adolescent girls from a working class background were compared on three measures of sex role as well as self and ideal personality characteristics. Both disturbed and normal girls had an appropriate sex-role identity on two of the measures. An association was found between normal status and high self scores on nurturance, affiliation, and endurance, and between pathological status and succorance. Although differences existed on some self reported traits between pathological and normal status, all groups tended to see the ideal female teenager as having an equitable balance among the personality variables and higher than they rated themselves on deference, nurturance, and affiliation and lower on autonomy. It was concluded that the presence or absence of certain adaptive personality traits may be more important than sex role disturbance in pathology.", "contents": "Sexual identity and personality variables in normal and disturbed adolescent girls. Disturbed and normal adolescent girls from a working class background were compared on three measures of sex role as well as self and ideal personality characteristics. Both disturbed and normal girls had an appropriate sex-role identity on two of the measures. An association was found between normal status and high self scores on nurturance, affiliation, and endurance, and between pathological status and succorance. Although differences existed on some self reported traits between pathological and normal status, all groups tended to see the ideal female teenager as having an equitable balance among the personality variables and higher than they rated themselves on deference, nurturance, and affiliation and lower on autonomy. It was concluded that the presence or absence of certain adaptive personality traits may be more important than sex role disturbance in pathology.", "PMID": 443101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5926", "title": "A study of sexual offenses against females.", "content": "The objective of this study was to obtain information on sexual offenses against females. Data were obtained from 103 females in two university classes. Eighty-four percent reported having been the victim of a sexual offense. The offenses experienced were obscene telephone calls (61%), sexual molestation (44%), exhibitionism (27%), being followed (24%), attempted rape (16%) and rape (1%). Most offenses were discussed with friends while very few were reported to parents, police or social workers.", "contents": "A study of sexual offenses against females. The objective of this study was to obtain information on sexual offenses against females. Data were obtained from 103 females in two university classes. Eighty-four percent reported having been the victim of a sexual offense. The offenses experienced were obscene telephone calls (61%), sexual molestation (44%), exhibitionism (27%), being followed (24%), attempted rape (16%) and rape (1%). Most offenses were discussed with friends while very few were reported to parents, police or social workers.", "PMID": 443102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5927", "title": "Clinical and administrative synthesis in adolescent treatment: search for a sane integration of thought and action.", "content": "In working as administrator and clinician (co-director and head psychologist) of a day and residential treatment facility for disturbed adolescents, I have become acutely aware of some of the difficulties of integrating both roles. To keep rooted in the concrete, I have described the program with which I am involved in particular as to crucial client and staff dynamics. By drawing on concepts from systems theory (as system integrity and cross-boundary interactions) and psychoanalytic theory (unconscious testing), I have tried in this paper to sketch a framework for bringing the two separate roles into a single way of thinking and give some examples of how this kind of synthesized approach can be useful and powerful. The two concrete examples focus (1) on the more administrative issue of program design, and (2) on a more clinical case of child abuse.", "contents": "Clinical and administrative synthesis in adolescent treatment: search for a sane integration of thought and action. In working as administrator and clinician (co-director and head psychologist) of a day and residential treatment facility for disturbed adolescents, I have become acutely aware of some of the difficulties of integrating both roles. To keep rooted in the concrete, I have described the program with which I am involved in particular as to crucial client and staff dynamics. By drawing on concepts from systems theory (as system integrity and cross-boundary interactions) and psychoanalytic theory (unconscious testing), I have tried in this paper to sketch a framework for bringing the two separate roles into a single way of thinking and give some examples of how this kind of synthesized approach can be useful and powerful. The two concrete examples focus (1) on the more administrative issue of program design, and (2) on a more clinical case of child abuse.", "PMID": 443103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5928", "title": "Seriousness of adolescent problems.", "content": "Two hundred and forty white middle class adolescents in a four year high school were administered a 14-item questionnaire designed to assess the seriousness of typical adolescent problems. The three most worrisome problems were physical appearance, careers and grades. Sex, year of high school and college vs. work bound differences were analyzed and discussed.", "contents": "Seriousness of adolescent problems. Two hundred and forty white middle class adolescents in a four year high school were administered a 14-item questionnaire designed to assess the seriousness of typical adolescent problems. The three most worrisome problems were physical appearance, careers and grades. Sex, year of high school and college vs. work bound differences were analyzed and discussed.", "PMID": 443104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5929", "title": "Fractured proximal femur in Newcastle upon Tyne.", "content": "Using Hospital Activity Analysis (HAA) data as a diagnostic index followed by record linkage procedures, a retrospective survey was carried out of patients aged 65 and over from the Newcastle area admitted to hospital with fractures of the proximal femur. Annual incidence rates for the Newcastle area of 5.6 per 1000 in females and 2.3 per 1000 in males were observed. These rates are probably 7% lower than true rates owing to patients with multiple fractures being allocated to diagnostic codes other than fractured proximal femur in HAA files. Incidence rates increased steeply with age, and rates in the sexes tended to converge at higher ages. Proportionately large numbers of patients were admitted in the winter months. The mean length of hospital stay was 75.2 days of which an average of 47.8 were spent in acute orthopaedic units: this was equivalent to the continuous occupation of 51.1% of acute orthopaedic beds in Newcastle. At one hospital, mean length of stay was 64% greater than at the other and the weekly discharge rates were suggestive of partly prescriptive discharge. Of the patients studied 35.6% died in hospital, and actuarial analysis shows that risk of death fell from initially high values to a nadir at four to six weeks and then showed a secondary rise.", "contents": "Fractured proximal femur in Newcastle upon Tyne. Using Hospital Activity Analysis (HAA) data as a diagnostic index followed by record linkage procedures, a retrospective survey was carried out of patients aged 65 and over from the Newcastle area admitted to hospital with fractures of the proximal femur. Annual incidence rates for the Newcastle area of 5.6 per 1000 in females and 2.3 per 1000 in males were observed. These rates are probably 7% lower than true rates owing to patients with multiple fractures being allocated to diagnostic codes other than fractured proximal femur in HAA files. Incidence rates increased steeply with age, and rates in the sexes tended to converge at higher ages. Proportionately large numbers of patients were admitted in the winter months. The mean length of hospital stay was 75.2 days of which an average of 47.8 were spent in acute orthopaedic units: this was equivalent to the continuous occupation of 51.1% of acute orthopaedic beds in Newcastle. At one hospital, mean length of stay was 64% greater than at the other and the weekly discharge rates were suggestive of partly prescriptive discharge. Of the patients studied 35.6% died in hospital, and actuarial analysis shows that risk of death fell from initially high values to a nadir at four to six weeks and then showed a secondary rise.", "PMID": 443106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5930", "title": "Oral and dental discomfort--a necessary feature of old age?", "content": "A socio-dental study was conducted among an elderly population living at home. The dental status of the sample was generally poor; 74% were edentulous and only 10% of the full denture wearers had appliances which were clinically satisfactory. Nearly 60% of the subjects had pathological lesions of the oral mucosa, mainly associated with the wearing of dentures. Many of the subjects were handicapped either socially or functionally by their oral conditions; 40% had oral pain, 30% had difficulty chewing and 20% were embarrassed by their dentures dropping during social contact. Although 78% were assessed as needing treatment only 19% had tried to obtain it. Various reasons were mentioned for not obtaining dental treatment, including immobility, fear and prohibitive cost. Reasons for the present state of the dental health of the elderly are discussed.", "contents": "Oral and dental discomfort--a necessary feature of old age? A socio-dental study was conducted among an elderly population living at home. The dental status of the sample was generally poor; 74% were edentulous and only 10% of the full denture wearers had appliances which were clinically satisfactory. Nearly 60% of the subjects had pathological lesions of the oral mucosa, mainly associated with the wearing of dentures. Many of the subjects were handicapped either socially or functionally by their oral conditions; 40% had oral pain, 30% had difficulty chewing and 20% were embarrassed by their dentures dropping during social contact. Although 78% were assessed as needing treatment only 19% had tried to obtain it. Various reasons were mentioned for not obtaining dental treatment, including immobility, fear and prohibitive cost. Reasons for the present state of the dental health of the elderly are discussed.", "PMID": 443107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5931", "title": "Economic aspects of the demand for total hip replacement in the elderly.", "content": "Approximately 1--3% of people attaining the age of 65 will eventually require a hip replacement. At present the elderly account for about half the total hip replacements performed annually under the National Health Service. Although this may appear to be difficult to justify on economic grounds, there may be minor financial gains and a saving of medical and community resources, in addition to the relief from symptoms and dependence upon others, which results from a successful operation.", "contents": "Economic aspects of the demand for total hip replacement in the elderly. Approximately 1--3% of people attaining the age of 65 will eventually require a hip replacement. At present the elderly account for about half the total hip replacements performed annually under the National Health Service. Although this may appear to be difficult to justify on economic grounds, there may be minor financial gains and a saving of medical and community resources, in addition to the relief from symptoms and dependence upon others, which results from a successful operation.", "PMID": 443108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5932", "title": "Prediction of outcome of patients admitted to a geriatric department.", "content": "The reliability of a clinical prognosis of outcome at six weeks has been investigated in a series of 1092 consecutive admissions to a geriatric department. The prognosis was made within a day of admission and made use only of the history and clinical findings. The results for discharge were good but categorization of patients who died or who stayed longer than six weeks was less reliable. Unpredicted deaths were often sudden or related to disease with developed after assessment. Other errors were due to over-optimism in forecasting response to medical treatment or rehabilitation. In other cases progressive deterioration had not been clearly recognized at our assessment based on a single point in time.", "contents": "Prediction of outcome of patients admitted to a geriatric department. The reliability of a clinical prognosis of outcome at six weeks has been investigated in a series of 1092 consecutive admissions to a geriatric department. The prognosis was made within a day of admission and made use only of the history and clinical findings. The results for discharge were good but categorization of patients who died or who stayed longer than six weeks was less reliable. Unpredicted deaths were often sudden or related to disease with developed after assessment. Other errors were due to over-optimism in forecasting response to medical treatment or rehabilitation. In other cases progressive deterioration had not been clearly recognized at our assessment based on a single point in time.", "PMID": 443109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5933", "title": "Urodynamic studies in the management of urinary incontinence in the elderly.", "content": "An outline is given of simple urodynamic investigations applicable to elderly subjects. The type of patient presenting primarily to geriatric departments with urinary incontinence, whose management is aided by such studies, is described under various clinical groupings. The requirement for urodynamic studies and the best means of providing these for the elderly patient is discussed.", "contents": "Urodynamic studies in the management of urinary incontinence in the elderly. An outline is given of simple urodynamic investigations applicable to elderly subjects. The type of patient presenting primarily to geriatric departments with urinary incontinence, whose management is aided by such studies, is described under various clinical groupings. The requirement for urodynamic studies and the best means of providing these for the elderly patient is discussed.", "PMID": 443110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5934", "title": "A geriatric psychiatry day hospital service: a five-year review.", "content": "Psychiatric day hospitals for the elderly have been regarded either as an alternative to in-patient care or as a long-term supportive facility for patients with chronic psychiatric disabilities. In a five-year review of such a unit it was found that the unit's main function had become that of providing an immediate short-term supportive facility to demented patients, mainly in the 75-years-and-over age group, and to their relatives, until such time as beds in the long-stay psychogeriatric wards of the hospital became available. The implications of this change in role of day hospitals are discussed in the light of present facilities and the predicted increase in the size of this section of the population.", "contents": "A geriatric psychiatry day hospital service: a five-year review. Psychiatric day hospitals for the elderly have been regarded either as an alternative to in-patient care or as a long-term supportive facility for patients with chronic psychiatric disabilities. In a five-year review of such a unit it was found that the unit's main function had become that of providing an immediate short-term supportive facility to demented patients, mainly in the 75-years-and-over age group, and to their relatives, until such time as beds in the long-stay psychogeriatric wards of the hospital became available. The implications of this change in role of day hospitals are discussed in the light of present facilities and the predicted increase in the size of this section of the population.", "PMID": 443111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5935", "title": "Capillary fragility in the elderly.", "content": "Within-subject variation of capillary fragility with a 20 mmHg change in blood pressure has been studied in a series of elderly patients. Capillary fragility is increased by an average of 48% by a 20 mmHg rise in blood pressure. The reported association of capillarly fragility and blood pressure is thus artefactual rather than an indication of a higher prevalence of vascular abnormality in subjects with higher blood pressure.", "contents": "Capillary fragility in the elderly. Within-subject variation of capillary fragility with a 20 mmHg change in blood pressure has been studied in a series of elderly patients. Capillary fragility is increased by an average of 48% by a 20 mmHg rise in blood pressure. The reported association of capillarly fragility and blood pressure is thus artefactual rather than an indication of a higher prevalence of vascular abnormality in subjects with higher blood pressure.", "PMID": 443112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5936", "title": "Selection of occupational therapy students.", "content": "A research study on the selection of students for entrance into the basic professional four-year occupational therapy curriculum at Elizabethtown College is presented in this paper. The study has tow primary objectives: the determination of factors that could serve to discriminate between prospective students who would remain in the program from those would withdraw; and the development of a mathematical model that could be used in future years for student selection to the occupational therapy program. It is suggested that the model can be applied to any educational setting, can effectively streamline the usual admissions process, and can ensure that qualified students enter occupational therapy programs and thus be an additional indicator for the success and continuation of the profession.", "contents": "Selection of occupational therapy students. A research study on the selection of students for entrance into the basic professional four-year occupational therapy curriculum at Elizabethtown College is presented in this paper. The study has tow primary objectives: the determination of factors that could serve to discriminate between prospective students who would remain in the program from those would withdraw; and the development of a mathematical model that could be used in future years for student selection to the occupational therapy program. It is suggested that the model can be applied to any educational setting, can effectively streamline the usual admissions process, and can ensure that qualified students enter occupational therapy programs and thus be an additional indicator for the success and continuation of the profession.", "PMID": 443146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5937", "title": "A prediction of internship performance.", "content": "Previous studies of predictors for occupational therapy internship performance were based on the Report of Student Performance, the tool used before 1974 to evaluate students' clinical performance. The instrument was never tested for validity or reliability. No studies for prediction of clinical performance used the present Field Work Performance Report (FWPR), which was tested for validity and reliability before its adoption late in 1973. Thus, new studies using the FWPR were indicated. Grades from 16 selected college courses and the pre-occupational therapy grade-point average were studied to determine significant relationships with the physical disability intership grades of 72 students from Colorado State University. Neurology was significant at the .0004 level. Further study is necessary to confirm the present findings and to determine additional predictors for clinical performance of Colorado State University students.", "contents": "A prediction of internship performance. Previous studies of predictors for occupational therapy internship performance were based on the Report of Student Performance, the tool used before 1974 to evaluate students' clinical performance. The instrument was never tested for validity or reliability. No studies for prediction of clinical performance used the present Field Work Performance Report (FWPR), which was tested for validity and reliability before its adoption late in 1973. Thus, new studies using the FWPR were indicated. Grades from 16 selected college courses and the pre-occupational therapy grade-point average were studied to determine significant relationships with the physical disability intership grades of 72 students from Colorado State University. Neurology was significant at the .0004 level. Further study is necessary to confirm the present findings and to determine additional predictors for clinical performance of Colorado State University students.", "PMID": 443147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5938", "title": "Role of the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex in hand visualization in normal infants.", "content": "Fourteen infants were each videotaped 7 times within the first 12 weeks of life to determine whether or not the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex had a role in placing their hands within their fields of vision. Infants' arms were more frequently out of the reflex position. Hands were within the peripheral visual field more often than in the focal visual field or not within the visual field. The proportion of observations that hands were in a particular visual field varied in accordance with the presence or absence of the reflex. A higher proportion of reflex observations occurred in the focal visual field, whereas a higher proportion of observations made when the infants were not in the reflex position occurred in the peripheral visual field. Further, the proportion of focal field observations in the reflex position was greater than the proportion of observations out of the reflex position for the first six of the seven ages. This study confirms that when infants are in the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex position, their hands are more likely to be in a position in which they can be visualized.", "contents": "Role of the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex in hand visualization in normal infants. Fourteen infants were each videotaped 7 times within the first 12 weeks of life to determine whether or not the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex had a role in placing their hands within their fields of vision. Infants' arms were more frequently out of the reflex position. Hands were within the peripheral visual field more often than in the focal visual field or not within the visual field. The proportion of observations that hands were in a particular visual field varied in accordance with the presence or absence of the reflex. A higher proportion of reflex observations occurred in the focal visual field, whereas a higher proportion of observations made when the infants were not in the reflex position occurred in the peripheral visual field. Further, the proportion of focal field observations in the reflex position was greater than the proportion of observations out of the reflex position for the first six of the seven ages. This study confirms that when infants are in the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex position, their hands are more likely to be in a position in which they can be visualized.", "PMID": 443149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5939", "title": "Advising the mastectomy patient about reconstruction.", "content": "Breast reconstruction deserves critical consideration and discussion in each patient's case. The psychologic benefits from the procedure are enormous. Reconstructive goals are: skin coverage, contour restoration and formation of the nipple-areola. The prospect of reconstruction must have no effect on the procedure for extirpation of the cancer. Breast reconstruction is now possible even after the removal of large amounts of skin and muscle.", "contents": "Advising the mastectomy patient about reconstruction. Breast reconstruction deserves critical consideration and discussion in each patient's case. The psychologic benefits from the procedure are enormous. Reconstructive goals are: skin coverage, contour restoration and formation of the nipple-areola. The prospect of reconstruction must have no effect on the procedure for extirpation of the cancer. Breast reconstruction is now possible even after the removal of large amounts of skin and muscle.", "PMID": 443162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5940", "title": "In-toeing gait in children.", "content": "Torsional deformities in the lower extremities, resulting from constrained intrauterine position, tend to spontaneously correct toward the adult configuration during growth. Internal tibial torsion, metatarsus adductus and femoral anteversion are clinically evident conditions that occur because of arrested normal postnatal development. An understanding of the dynamics of spontaneous correction permits assessment of the child with in-toeing gait as well as the selection of proper treatment.", "contents": "In-toeing gait in children. Torsional deformities in the lower extremities, resulting from constrained intrauterine position, tend to spontaneously correct toward the adult configuration during growth. Internal tibial torsion, metatarsus adductus and femoral anteversion are clinically evident conditions that occur because of arrested normal postnatal development. An understanding of the dynamics of spontaneous correction permits assessment of the child with in-toeing gait as well as the selection of proper treatment.", "PMID": 443163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5941", "title": "Infection of glutaraldehyde-preserved porcine valve heterografts.", "content": "Gross, histologic and ultrastructural changes associated with bacterial infection are described in four porcine valve heterografts that had been in place in patients for 6 days to 28 months. In one patient, culture of the aortic tissue tag included in the heterograft container grew Mycobacterium chelonei; however, examination of the heterograft, recovered at necropsy 6 days after implantation, revealed small colonies of bacteria that differed morphologically from mycobacteria. A second heterograft was the site of staphylococcal infection associated with extensive destruction of collagen in the leaflets. Similar destruction was observed in a third heterograft, which was found to have organisms on ultrastructural study even though bacterial cultures of the valve were negative. The fourth heterograft, from a patient who died of coronary embolism secondary to dislodgment of vegetative material, contained structures resembling lysed bacteria. Observations in these 4 patients and review of published reports of infection involving 43 other patients with porcine valve heterografts indicates that infection in these valves: (1) develops in the fibrin layer that covers the cusps, (2) can involve the collagen in the leaflets, and (3) is uncommonly (three patients) associated with valve ring abscesses.", "contents": "Infection of glutaraldehyde-preserved porcine valve heterografts. Gross, histologic and ultrastructural changes associated with bacterial infection are described in four porcine valve heterografts that had been in place in patients for 6 days to 28 months. In one patient, culture of the aortic tissue tag included in the heterograft container grew Mycobacterium chelonei; however, examination of the heterograft, recovered at necropsy 6 days after implantation, revealed small colonies of bacteria that differed morphologically from mycobacteria. A second heterograft was the site of staphylococcal infection associated with extensive destruction of collagen in the leaflets. Similar destruction was observed in a third heterograft, which was found to have organisms on ultrastructural study even though bacterial cultures of the valve were negative. The fourth heterograft, from a patient who died of coronary embolism secondary to dislodgment of vegetative material, contained structures resembling lysed bacteria. Observations in these 4 patients and review of published reports of infection involving 43 other patients with porcine valve heterografts indicates that infection in these valves: (1) develops in the fibrin layer that covers the cusps, (2) can involve the collagen in the leaflets, and (3) is uncommonly (three patients) associated with valve ring abscesses.", "PMID": 443172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5942", "title": "Effect of diltiazem, a calcium antagonist, on myocardial ischemia.", "content": "In line with studies on the metabolism of the ischemic myocardium, the effectiveness of diltiazem hydrochloride, a potent calcium antagonist, in reducing the effects of ischemia was evaluated. Nonischemic and ischemic tissue samples were examined in two groups of dogs--Group I, dogs receiving no drug and killed after 60 minutes of regional ischemia, and Group II, dogs given diltiazem after 10 minutes of ischemia and killed 50 minutes later. Administration of diltiazem proved beneficial in several ways: The decrease in adenosine-5'-triphosphate in the ischemic region was halved, inhibition of anaerobic glycolysis was reduced, tissue levels of lactic acid and free fatty acids were lowered and the contractility of glycerinated heart muscle fibers was improved. However, administration of the drug did not influence mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption and respiratory control were reduced by equal amounts in both groups, as was mitochondrial calcium ion binding. These observations demonstrate that diltiazem is capable of minimizing the consequences of acute ischemic, although the beneficial effects do not extend to all aspects of myocardial metabolism.", "contents": "Effect of diltiazem, a calcium antagonist, on myocardial ischemia. In line with studies on the metabolism of the ischemic myocardium, the effectiveness of diltiazem hydrochloride, a potent calcium antagonist, in reducing the effects of ischemia was evaluated. Nonischemic and ischemic tissue samples were examined in two groups of dogs--Group I, dogs receiving no drug and killed after 60 minutes of regional ischemia, and Group II, dogs given diltiazem after 10 minutes of ischemia and killed 50 minutes later. Administration of diltiazem proved beneficial in several ways: The decrease in adenosine-5'-triphosphate in the ischemic region was halved, inhibition of anaerobic glycolysis was reduced, tissue levels of lactic acid and free fatty acids were lowered and the contractility of glycerinated heart muscle fibers was improved. However, administration of the drug did not influence mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption and respiratory control were reduced by equal amounts in both groups, as was mitochondrial calcium ion binding. These observations demonstrate that diltiazem is capable of minimizing the consequences of acute ischemic, although the beneficial effects do not extend to all aspects of myocardial metabolism.", "PMID": 443173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5943", "title": "Canine electrophysiology of encainide, a new antiarrhythmic drug.", "content": "Encainide, a new benzanilide derivative with high potency and a good therapeutic/toxic ratio, was evaluated with the use of standard His bundle recording techniques to determine its effects on the cardiac conduction system in closed chest animals. Twenty mongrel dogs weighing 18 to 29 kg were anesthetized with 4 percent chloralose and classified into groups: group 1, a control group and groups 2, 3, and 4, which were given 0.3, 0.9 and 2.7 mg/kg body weight, respectively, of encainide in an intravenous infusion over a 15 minute period. Plasma concentration, blood pressure, surface electrocardiogram and atrial and His bundle electrograms were recorded before, during and after drug infusion for a total of 120 minutes. Heart rate, A-H and H-V intervals, the QRS complex and Q-Tc interval were measured every 5 minutes during sinus rhythm and with constant atrial pacing. In addition, sinus nodal recovery time and atrial, atrioventricular (A-V) nodal and left ventricular refractory periods were measured before and immediately after infusion and every 30 minutes for 2 hours. Peak plasma concentration averaged 450 ng/ml in group 2, 1,300 ng/ml in group 3 and 4,000 ng/ml in group 4. Blood pressure was not altered at any dose level throughout the study. The QRS complex and H-V interval were significantly prolonged (P less than 0.005) at doses of 0.9 mg/kg and greater. These effects correlated well with plasma concentration. There was no significant change in heart rate, corrected sinus nodal recovery time, A-H interval, Q-Tc interval atrial, A-V nodal or left ventricular refractory period. It is concluded that, unlike other antiarrhythmic agents, encainide prolongs His-Purkinje system conduction without significantly affecting conduction or refractoriness of other parts of the cardiac conduction system in animals.", "contents": "Canine electrophysiology of encainide, a new antiarrhythmic drug. Encainide, a new benzanilide derivative with high potency and a good therapeutic/toxic ratio, was evaluated with the use of standard His bundle recording techniques to determine its effects on the cardiac conduction system in closed chest animals. Twenty mongrel dogs weighing 18 to 29 kg were anesthetized with 4 percent chloralose and classified into groups: group 1, a control group and groups 2, 3, and 4, which were given 0.3, 0.9 and 2.7 mg/kg body weight, respectively, of encainide in an intravenous infusion over a 15 minute period. Plasma concentration, blood pressure, surface electrocardiogram and atrial and His bundle electrograms were recorded before, during and after drug infusion for a total of 120 minutes. Heart rate, A-H and H-V intervals, the QRS complex and Q-Tc interval were measured every 5 minutes during sinus rhythm and with constant atrial pacing. In addition, sinus nodal recovery time and atrial, atrioventricular (A-V) nodal and left ventricular refractory periods were measured before and immediately after infusion and every 30 minutes for 2 hours. Peak plasma concentration averaged 450 ng/ml in group 2, 1,300 ng/ml in group 3 and 4,000 ng/ml in group 4. Blood pressure was not altered at any dose level throughout the study. The QRS complex and H-V interval were significantly prolonged (P less than 0.005) at doses of 0.9 mg/kg and greater. These effects correlated well with plasma concentration. There was no significant change in heart rate, corrected sinus nodal recovery time, A-H interval, Q-Tc interval atrial, A-V nodal or left ventricular refractory period. It is concluded that, unlike other antiarrhythmic agents, encainide prolongs His-Purkinje system conduction without significantly affecting conduction or refractoriness of other parts of the cardiac conduction system in animals.", "PMID": 443174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5944", "title": "Effects of thioridazine (Mellaril) on ventricular electrophysiologic properties.", "content": "The effects of therapeutic and toxic doses of thioridazine (Mellaril) (10 and 50 mg/kg body weight, respectively) on ventricular electrophysiologic properties were studied in 12 anesthetized dogs. Threshold pacing currents (diastolic threshold), effective refractory period and conduction time were significantly increased, and idioventricular automaticity was suppressed after administration of 10 mg/kg of thioridazine; the effects were much more pronounced after administration of 50 mg/kg. Rapidly repetitive responses or tachycardia could be induced in the ventricle by two early premature beats in 9 of the 12 dogs after the 50 mg/kg dose, but they did not occur before drug administration or after the 10 mg/kg dose. These results indicate that the antiarrhythmic and arrhythmogenic effects of thioridazine are dose-dependent and that careful monitoring with frequent electrocardiograms is needed for patients receiving large doses of this drug.", "contents": "Effects of thioridazine (Mellaril) on ventricular electrophysiologic properties. The effects of therapeutic and toxic doses of thioridazine (Mellaril) (10 and 50 mg/kg body weight, respectively) on ventricular electrophysiologic properties were studied in 12 anesthetized dogs. Threshold pacing currents (diastolic threshold), effective refractory period and conduction time were significantly increased, and idioventricular automaticity was suppressed after administration of 10 mg/kg of thioridazine; the effects were much more pronounced after administration of 50 mg/kg. Rapidly repetitive responses or tachycardia could be induced in the ventricle by two early premature beats in 9 of the 12 dogs after the 50 mg/kg dose, but they did not occur before drug administration or after the 10 mg/kg dose. These results indicate that the antiarrhythmic and arrhythmogenic effects of thioridazine are dose-dependent and that careful monitoring with frequent electrocardiograms is needed for patients receiving large doses of this drug.", "PMID": 443175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5945", "title": "Multiple gated cardiac blood pool imaging for left ventricular ejection fraction: validation of the technique and assessment of variability.", "content": "The intrinsic variability and accuracy of left ventricular ejection fraction determined by multiple gated cardiac blood pool imaging was evaluated in 83 patients. Ejection fraction by gated studies correlated well with data from first pass radionuclide angiocardiography (r = 0.94) and from contrast angiography (r = 0.84). Intra- and interobserver variabilities of absolute ejection fraction were minimal (mean +/- standard deviation 1.4 +/- 1.2 and 1.6 +/- 1.5 percent, respectively) and were not different for normal (ejection fraction 55 percent or greater) and abnormal patients. Ejection fraction was determined twice in 70 patients: on the same day at intervals separated by 1 to 2 hours (41 patients) and on 2 different days (29 patients). Ejection fraction ranged from 18 to 91 percent and was normal in 37 patients. There was no difference in mean serial variabilities of absolute ejection fraction for all repeat studies performed on the same and separate days (3.3 +/- 3.1 versus 4.3 +/- 3.1 percent (not significantly different). The mean variability of absolute ejection fraction for repeat studies in normal patients was significantly greater than in abnormal patients (5.4 +/- 4.4 versus 2.1 +/- 2.0 percent, P less than 0.01). The incidence rate of absolute interstudy changes of 5 percent or more was significantly higher in normal than in abnormal patients (P less than 0.01). This differential variability should be considered in interpreting sequential changes in left ventricular ejection fraction. To be attributed to nonrandom physiologic alterations, the absolute change in ejection fraction should be 10 percent or more in normal patients and 5 percent or more in abnormal patients.", "contents": "Multiple gated cardiac blood pool imaging for left ventricular ejection fraction: validation of the technique and assessment of variability. The intrinsic variability and accuracy of left ventricular ejection fraction determined by multiple gated cardiac blood pool imaging was evaluated in 83 patients. Ejection fraction by gated studies correlated well with data from first pass radionuclide angiocardiography (r = 0.94) and from contrast angiography (r = 0.84). Intra- and interobserver variabilities of absolute ejection fraction were minimal (mean +/- standard deviation 1.4 +/- 1.2 and 1.6 +/- 1.5 percent, respectively) and were not different for normal (ejection fraction 55 percent or greater) and abnormal patients. Ejection fraction was determined twice in 70 patients: on the same day at intervals separated by 1 to 2 hours (41 patients) and on 2 different days (29 patients). Ejection fraction ranged from 18 to 91 percent and was normal in 37 patients. There was no difference in mean serial variabilities of absolute ejection fraction for all repeat studies performed on the same and separate days (3.3 +/- 3.1 versus 4.3 +/- 3.1 percent (not significantly different). The mean variability of absolute ejection fraction for repeat studies in normal patients was significantly greater than in abnormal patients (5.4 +/- 4.4 versus 2.1 +/- 2.0 percent, P less than 0.01). The incidence rate of absolute interstudy changes of 5 percent or more was significantly higher in normal than in abnormal patients (P less than 0.01). This differential variability should be considered in interpreting sequential changes in left ventricular ejection fraction. To be attributed to nonrandom physiologic alterations, the absolute change in ejection fraction should be 10 percent or more in normal patients and 5 percent or more in abnormal patients.", "PMID": 443176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5946", "title": "Management of surgical complete atrioventricular block in children.", "content": "Because there is disagreement concerning the efficacy of and indication for permanent pacemaker implantation in children with postoperative complete (third degree) atrioventricular (A-V) block, experience in the management of this problem at one institution was reviewed. Thirty-four patients with postoperative complete atrioventricular block were identified. They ranged in age from 4 months to 22 years and in weight from 4 to 60 kg and were evaluated from 1 month to 20 years postoperatively. Complete A-V block developed within 24 hours of operation in 28 of the 34 patients. A permanent pacemaker was implanted in 13 of the 28. Death occurred in 4 of these 13 patients and in 5 of the remaining 15 patients who did not have an artificial permanent pacemaker. Complete A-V block developed later than 1 day (2 days to 4 months) postoperatively in 6 of the 34 patients; all 6 of these patients survived, and only 3 required permanent pacemaker implantation. Intracardiac electrophysiologic studies were performed by 14 of the 34 patients. The site of complete block was above the His bundle in 5, within the His bundle in 2, and below the His bundle in 4; it was undetermined in 3. The results of intracardiac electrophysiologic studies are important in delineating the natural history of surgically induced complete A-V block and in the clinical management of this lesion. Permanent pacemaker implantation is indicated if complete A-V block persists longer than 2 weeks postoperatively and if the site of the block is within or below the bundle of His.", "contents": "Management of surgical complete atrioventricular block in children. Because there is disagreement concerning the efficacy of and indication for permanent pacemaker implantation in children with postoperative complete (third degree) atrioventricular (A-V) block, experience in the management of this problem at one institution was reviewed. Thirty-four patients with postoperative complete atrioventricular block were identified. They ranged in age from 4 months to 22 years and in weight from 4 to 60 kg and were evaluated from 1 month to 20 years postoperatively. Complete A-V block developed within 24 hours of operation in 28 of the 34 patients. A permanent pacemaker was implanted in 13 of the 28. Death occurred in 4 of these 13 patients and in 5 of the remaining 15 patients who did not have an artificial permanent pacemaker. Complete A-V block developed later than 1 day (2 days to 4 months) postoperatively in 6 of the 34 patients; all 6 of these patients survived, and only 3 required permanent pacemaker implantation. Intracardiac electrophysiologic studies were performed by 14 of the 34 patients. The site of complete block was above the His bundle in 5, within the His bundle in 2, and below the His bundle in 4; it was undetermined in 3. The results of intracardiac electrophysiologic studies are important in delineating the natural history of surgically induced complete A-V block and in the clinical management of this lesion. Permanent pacemaker implantation is indicated if complete A-V block persists longer than 2 weeks postoperatively and if the site of the block is within or below the bundle of His.", "PMID": 443177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5947", "title": "The fast-slow form of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia in children.", "content": "An unusual form of atrioventricular (A-V) nodal reentry is described as the underlying mechanism for incessant tachycardia in two children. During tachycardia a fast pathway was utilized for anterograde conduction and a slow pathway for retrograde conduction. This is the reverse of the usual form of A-V nodal reentrant tachycardia, in which the slow pathway is utilized for anterograde conduction and the fast pathway for retrograde conduction. One patient had a smooth ventriculoatrial (V-A) conduction curve demonstrating exclusive utilization of the slow pathway for retrograde conduction. The other had a discontinuous V-A conduction curve demonstrating failure of retrograde fast pathway conduction with resultant slow pathway conduction. In both cases the retrograde effective refractory period of the fast pathway was longer than that of the slow pathway, resulting in the establishment of this unusual reentry circuit. Both patients had a superior P axis with a P-R interval shorter than the R-P interval during tachycardia, features described in a significant number of children with incessant tachycardia. This unusual form of reentrant tachycardia can be suggested by its electrocardiographic pattern and is another mechanism for reentrant tachycardia not previously documented in children.", "contents": "The fast-slow form of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia in children. An unusual form of atrioventricular (A-V) nodal reentry is described as the underlying mechanism for incessant tachycardia in two children. During tachycardia a fast pathway was utilized for anterograde conduction and a slow pathway for retrograde conduction. This is the reverse of the usual form of A-V nodal reentrant tachycardia, in which the slow pathway is utilized for anterograde conduction and the fast pathway for retrograde conduction. One patient had a smooth ventriculoatrial (V-A) conduction curve demonstrating exclusive utilization of the slow pathway for retrograde conduction. The other had a discontinuous V-A conduction curve demonstrating failure of retrograde fast pathway conduction with resultant slow pathway conduction. In both cases the retrograde effective refractory period of the fast pathway was longer than that of the slow pathway, resulting in the establishment of this unusual reentry circuit. Both patients had a superior P axis with a P-R interval shorter than the R-P interval during tachycardia, features described in a significant number of children with incessant tachycardia. This unusual form of reentrant tachycardia can be suggested by its electrocardiographic pattern and is another mechanism for reentrant tachycardia not previously documented in children.", "PMID": 443178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5948", "title": "Noninvasive visualization of coronary arterial aneurysm in infants and young children with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome with two dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "Real time two dimensional echocardiographic studies of the main coronary arteries were performed in 30 normal subjects and 58 patients with the mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. Four echocardiographic coronary arterial patterns were observed: linear, dilated, fusiform or spherical. In normal subjects the left main coronary artery generally had a linear pattern but had a dilated pattern in two patients. The right coronary artery could not be visualized clearly. In 7 of the 58 patients with the mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, a portion of the left main coronary artery had a fusiform or spherical pattern, or both, and the stem of the right coronary artery also had a spherical pattern in 2 patients. In all five patients who had coronary angiography, the procedure confirmed an aneurysm in the left main coronary artery or its branching point and the stem of the left anterior descending coronary artery or the stem of the right coronary artery, or both. In three of the five patients, coronary arterial aneurysms were predicted before coronary angiography was performed. Thus, two dimensional echocardiography is a reliable noninvasive method for evaluating coronary arterial aneurysms in infants and young children.", "contents": "Noninvasive visualization of coronary arterial aneurysm in infants and young children with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome with two dimensional echocardiography. Real time two dimensional echocardiographic studies of the main coronary arteries were performed in 30 normal subjects and 58 patients with the mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. Four echocardiographic coronary arterial patterns were observed: linear, dilated, fusiform or spherical. In normal subjects the left main coronary artery generally had a linear pattern but had a dilated pattern in two patients. The right coronary artery could not be visualized clearly. In 7 of the 58 patients with the mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, a portion of the left main coronary artery had a fusiform or spherical pattern, or both, and the stem of the right coronary artery also had a spherical pattern in 2 patients. In all five patients who had coronary angiography, the procedure confirmed an aneurysm in the left main coronary artery or its branching point and the stem of the left anterior descending coronary artery or the stem of the right coronary artery, or both. In three of the five patients, coronary arterial aneurysms were predicted before coronary angiography was performed. Thus, two dimensional echocardiography is a reliable noninvasive method for evaluating coronary arterial aneurysms in infants and young children.", "PMID": 443180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5949", "title": "Sucking action of the left ventricle: demonstration of a physiologic principle by a gunshot wound penetrating only the right side of the heart.", "content": "This report describes a man who died after a gunshot wound that entered the right atrium and exited from the right ventricle without entering the cardiac septa or the left side of the heart. At necropsy, the left atrial appendage was found to be inverted and invaginated into the mitral orifice. The invagination of the left atrial appendage is viewed as anatomic evidence that a negative left ventricular pressure was created as the left ventricular volume rapidly decreased as a result of right-sided cardiac exsanguination. Previously reported experiments in animals demonstrating the sucking (negative pressure) action of the left ventricle during ventricular diastole are summarized. The prerequisite for creation of a negative pressure in the ventricles during diastole is an extreme diminution in left ventricular volume, in this case as a result of right-sided cardiac bleeding. Only a vacuum effect of the left ventricle during diastole can explain the inversion and invagination of the left atrial appendage in this patient.", "contents": "Sucking action of the left ventricle: demonstration of a physiologic principle by a gunshot wound penetrating only the right side of the heart. This report describes a man who died after a gunshot wound that entered the right atrium and exited from the right ventricle without entering the cardiac septa or the left side of the heart. At necropsy, the left atrial appendage was found to be inverted and invaginated into the mitral orifice. The invagination of the left atrial appendage is viewed as anatomic evidence that a negative left ventricular pressure was created as the left ventricular volume rapidly decreased as a result of right-sided cardiac exsanguination. Previously reported experiments in animals demonstrating the sucking (negative pressure) action of the left ventricle during ventricular diastole are summarized. The prerequisite for creation of a negative pressure in the ventricles during diastole is an extreme diminution in left ventricular volume, in this case as a result of right-sided cardiac bleeding. Only a vacuum effect of the left ventricle during diastole can explain the inversion and invagination of the left atrial appendage in this patient.", "PMID": 443181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5950", "title": "Fatal acute bacterial myocarditis after dentoalveolar abscess.", "content": "A 19 year old woman presented with chest pain after a dental extraction for a dentoalveolar abscess. Electrocardiographic and serum isoenzyme changes were consistent with acute anterior myocardial infarction. At autopsy bacteria were demonstrated, within the myocardium in the absence of a myocardial abscess or endocarditis. This case illustrates the occurrence of isolated acute bacterial myocarditis after a dental extraction.", "contents": "Fatal acute bacterial myocarditis after dentoalveolar abscess. A 19 year old woman presented with chest pain after a dental extraction for a dentoalveolar abscess. Electrocardiographic and serum isoenzyme changes were consistent with acute anterior myocardial infarction. At autopsy bacteria were demonstrated, within the myocardium in the absence of a myocardial abscess or endocarditis. This case illustrates the occurrence of isolated acute bacterial myocarditis after a dental extraction.", "PMID": 443182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5951", "title": "Comparative apparent digestibility of casein in holoxenic, axenic, and Clostridium bifermentans monoassociated rats.", "content": "The aim of the present study was to determine the role of the intestinal microflora in the dietary utilization of casein. The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, energy, and nitrogen was measured in holoxenic, axenic, and Clostridium befermentans monoassociated rats deprived or not deprived of their pancreatic and bile secretions. The apparent digestibility of energy decreased in all the animals whatever the bacterial environment, after ligation of the common duct. Concerning the apparent digestibility of nitrogen, the intestinal microflora allowed the rats to compensate for the absence of the pancreatic proteolytic enzymes. It is suggested that a small part of casein, which was not hydrolyzed when the animals were deprived of their pancreatic and bile secretions, underwent a hydrolysis from the bacterial proteases.", "contents": "Comparative apparent digestibility of casein in holoxenic, axenic, and Clostridium bifermentans monoassociated rats. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of the intestinal microflora in the dietary utilization of casein. The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, energy, and nitrogen was measured in holoxenic, axenic, and Clostridium befermentans monoassociated rats deprived or not deprived of their pancreatic and bile secretions. The apparent digestibility of energy decreased in all the animals whatever the bacterial environment, after ligation of the common duct. Concerning the apparent digestibility of nitrogen, the intestinal microflora allowed the rats to compensate for the absence of the pancreatic proteolytic enzymes. It is suggested that a small part of casein, which was not hydrolyzed when the animals were deprived of their pancreatic and bile secretions, underwent a hydrolysis from the bacterial proteases.", "PMID": 443187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5952", "title": "Obesity, lipids, and glucose intolerance. The Framingham Study.", "content": "Some lipid and lipoprotein accompaniments of obesity and its association with glucose intolerance are examined in the Framingham cohort of 5209 men and women ages 30 to 59 examined biennially over 18 years. While beta and pre-beta lipoproteins were positively correlated with relative weight, high density lipoprotein cholesterol was inversely correlated. The association was strongest for high density lipoprotein cholesterol, varying little by age and sex. Triglyceride was a close second, but unlike high density lipoproteins, it and other lipids were more closely associated with obesity in men than women and in younger than older persons. Obese persons tended to have a greater likelihood of glycosuria and an increasing prevalence of diabetes. Relative weight in the Framingham cohort rose in both sexes to age 54, remained essentially unchanged until age 62 and then began to decline. Despite such changes body weights even 18 years apart had a correlation of 0.8. Men from each succeeding birth cohort were heavier, women were lighter, but even women from the most recent birth cohort were much more frequently above \"desirable\" weight than below it.", "contents": "Obesity, lipids, and glucose intolerance. The Framingham Study. Some lipid and lipoprotein accompaniments of obesity and its association with glucose intolerance are examined in the Framingham cohort of 5209 men and women ages 30 to 59 examined biennially over 18 years. While beta and pre-beta lipoproteins were positively correlated with relative weight, high density lipoprotein cholesterol was inversely correlated. The association was strongest for high density lipoprotein cholesterol, varying little by age and sex. Triglyceride was a close second, but unlike high density lipoproteins, it and other lipids were more closely associated with obesity in men than women and in younger than older persons. Obese persons tended to have a greater likelihood of glycosuria and an increasing prevalence of diabetes. Relative weight in the Framingham cohort rose in both sexes to age 54, remained essentially unchanged until age 62 and then began to decline. Despite such changes body weights even 18 years apart had a correlation of 0.8. Men from each succeeding birth cohort were heavier, women were lighter, but even women from the most recent birth cohort were much more frequently above \"desirable\" weight than below it.", "PMID": 443188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5953", "title": "II. In vitro restoration by levamisole of mitogen responsiveness in zinc-deprived rats.", "content": "The effect of levamisole on the in vitro responses of splenic and peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin were investigated in zinc-deprived and pair-fed control rats. The in vitro response of lymphocytes from zinc-deprived rats was markedly impaired in comparison with that of controls. The addition of levamisole to cultures of zinc-deprived splenic lymphocytes significantly improved their response to phytohemagglutinin by 54%. The addition of levamisole to cultures of zinc-deprived peripheral blood lymphocytes significantly improved their response by 116.2%. The addition of levamisole to control lymphocyte culture had no effect. This study may be the first to evaluate the beneficial effect of an immunomodulating agent on immune function in a nutritionally deprived host.", "contents": "II. In vitro restoration by levamisole of mitogen responsiveness in zinc-deprived rats. The effect of levamisole on the in vitro responses of splenic and peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin were investigated in zinc-deprived and pair-fed control rats. The in vitro response of lymphocytes from zinc-deprived rats was markedly impaired in comparison with that of controls. The addition of levamisole to cultures of zinc-deprived splenic lymphocytes significantly improved their response to phytohemagglutinin by 54%. The addition of levamisole to cultures of zinc-deprived peripheral blood lymphocytes significantly improved their response by 116.2%. The addition of levamisole to control lymphocyte culture had no effect. This study may be the first to evaluate the beneficial effect of an immunomodulating agent on immune function in a nutritionally deprived host.", "PMID": 443189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5954", "title": "Changing patterns of dietary iron overload in black South Africans.", "content": "Over the last 17 years there has been a significant reduction in the prevalence and severity of dietary iron overload in urban blacks of Johannesburg. This is attributed to a decrease in the consumption of traditionally brewed beer of high iron content over this period. A 40% reduction was found in hepatic iron concentrations measured in necropsy specimens from 248 male patients who died in 1976 as compared with 220 who died in 1959 and 1960. While hepatic iron concentrations rose with age in both groups there was no evidence of iron accumulation during the period between the two studies. Hepatic iron concentrations measured in 345 female subjects were many fold less than those of males and the 1976 group did not differ significantly from the 1959 to 1960 group. A paradoxical increase in the prevalence of portal fibrosis and cirrhosis was seen and may be due to the effects of increased ingestion of spirits and fortified wine in recent years. Iron overload was significantly greater in males with carcinoma of the esophagus and in those with idiopathic heart failure when compared to subjects who died of other causes. This suggests excessive exposure of these subjects to traditionally brewed beverages and the adulterants present in them.", "contents": "Changing patterns of dietary iron overload in black South Africans. Over the last 17 years there has been a significant reduction in the prevalence and severity of dietary iron overload in urban blacks of Johannesburg. This is attributed to a decrease in the consumption of traditionally brewed beer of high iron content over this period. A 40% reduction was found in hepatic iron concentrations measured in necropsy specimens from 248 male patients who died in 1976 as compared with 220 who died in 1959 and 1960. While hepatic iron concentrations rose with age in both groups there was no evidence of iron accumulation during the period between the two studies. Hepatic iron concentrations measured in 345 female subjects were many fold less than those of males and the 1976 group did not differ significantly from the 1959 to 1960 group. A paradoxical increase in the prevalence of portal fibrosis and cirrhosis was seen and may be due to the effects of increased ingestion of spirits and fortified wine in recent years. Iron overload was significantly greater in males with carcinoma of the esophagus and in those with idiopathic heart failure when compared to subjects who died of other causes. This suggests excessive exposure of these subjects to traditionally brewed beverages and the adulterants present in them.", "PMID": 443190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5955", "title": "Lactation and fertility.", "content": "During the last decade there have been many reports indicating a decline in breast feeding practices in the urban areas of developing countries. This decline might have adverse effects on maternal and child health. A study of 1079 urban hospital attending women was undertaken to evaluate their breast feeding practices. Prolonged (mean duration of lactation 19.8 months) and successful lactation (failure of lactation occurred in only 3.5%) was common among this group. But a trend toward shorter duration of breast feeding was found among educationally and economically better off segment. There was very good correlation between mean duration of lactation, lactational amenorrhea, and interpregnancy interval. Therefore, it is possible that decrease in duration of lactation might result in shorter interpregnancy interval. The duration of lactation appeared to be \"fixed\" for each individual irrespective of age and parity. This in turn resulted in \"fixed\" duration of lactational amenorrhea and interpregnancy interval under conditions of unhindered lactation and uncontrolled fertility. Conception during lactational amenorrhea was low (7.7%) but once periods were reestablished lactation offered very little protection against conception.", "contents": "Lactation and fertility. During the last decade there have been many reports indicating a decline in breast feeding practices in the urban areas of developing countries. This decline might have adverse effects on maternal and child health. A study of 1079 urban hospital attending women was undertaken to evaluate their breast feeding practices. Prolonged (mean duration of lactation 19.8 months) and successful lactation (failure of lactation occurred in only 3.5%) was common among this group. But a trend toward shorter duration of breast feeding was found among educationally and economically better off segment. There was very good correlation between mean duration of lactation, lactational amenorrhea, and interpregnancy interval. Therefore, it is possible that decrease in duration of lactation might result in shorter interpregnancy interval. The duration of lactation appeared to be \"fixed\" for each individual irrespective of age and parity. This in turn resulted in \"fixed\" duration of lactational amenorrhea and interpregnancy interval under conditions of unhindered lactation and uncontrolled fertility. Conception during lactational amenorrhea was low (7.7%) but once periods were reestablished lactation offered very little protection against conception.", "PMID": 443191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5956", "title": "Intakes and sources of dietary fiber in the British population.", "content": "Intakes of dietary fiber and its different components have been measured in a random sample of the population in Cambridgeshire, England and compared with data from the British National Food Survey. Sixty-three men and women ages 20 to 80 were included in the sample. Total dietary fiber intake was 19.9 +/- 5.3 g/day compared with the calculated value of 19.7 g/day from the 1976 National Food Survey. There was a 4-fold range in fiber intake from 8 to 32 g/day; no significant trends with age or between men and women were detected. Vegetables supplied the majority of the fiber (41.3%); cereals 30.5%, and fruit and mixed sources 28.2%. Of the components of dietary fiber noncellulosic polysaccharide, cellulose, and lignin intakes were 13.8, 4.7, and 1.4 g/day, respectively. In the noncellulosic fraction, hexoses contributed 7.4 g, pentoses and uronic acids 3.3 and 3.0 g. Vegetables and unrefined cereals were the main sources of pentose. These intakes are low in comparison with limited international data from developing countries and of a similar order to those known in dietary experiments to produce low stool weights, slow transit time, and concentrated feces. They could readily be increased by simple dietary changes.", "contents": "Intakes and sources of dietary fiber in the British population. Intakes of dietary fiber and its different components have been measured in a random sample of the population in Cambridgeshire, England and compared with data from the British National Food Survey. Sixty-three men and women ages 20 to 80 were included in the sample. Total dietary fiber intake was 19.9 +/- 5.3 g/day compared with the calculated value of 19.7 g/day from the 1976 National Food Survey. There was a 4-fold range in fiber intake from 8 to 32 g/day; no significant trends with age or between men and women were detected. Vegetables supplied the majority of the fiber (41.3%); cereals 30.5%, and fruit and mixed sources 28.2%. Of the components of dietary fiber noncellulosic polysaccharide, cellulose, and lignin intakes were 13.8, 4.7, and 1.4 g/day, respectively. In the noncellulosic fraction, hexoses contributed 7.4 g, pentoses and uronic acids 3.3 and 3.0 g. Vegetables and unrefined cereals were the main sources of pentose. These intakes are low in comparison with limited international data from developing countries and of a similar order to those known in dietary experiments to produce low stool weights, slow transit time, and concentrated feces. They could readily be increased by simple dietary changes.", "PMID": 443192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5957", "title": "Nutrient intakes in an urbanized Micronesian population with a high diabetes prevalence.", "content": "Dietary data was obtained from 77 adult Micronesian (Nauruan) subjects during a diabetes epidemiological survey. The life-style of this isolated Pacific population is almost completely Westernized and they have been shown to have a very high diabetes prevalence rate. Nearly all food consumed by the islanders is imported from Australia. The main caloric intake of both males and females was at least twice those recommended for Western or developing Pacific populations. The diet meets or exceeds the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council recommended allowance for calories, protein, fat, and ascorbic acid, but thiamin intake was inadequate. The percentage of fat in the diet was lower than that consumer by Western populations. Obesity is a pronounced feature of this population and the high caloric intake coupled with reduced physical activity would appear to be a major factor in relation to this. This Micronesian group has a genetic susceptibility to diabetes which may have been unmasked by the change from traditional to Western life-style. This problem may not be unique to Nauru and, with progressive Westernization, many other Polynesian and Micronesian populations may be at risk.", "contents": "Nutrient intakes in an urbanized Micronesian population with a high diabetes prevalence. Dietary data was obtained from 77 adult Micronesian (Nauruan) subjects during a diabetes epidemiological survey. The life-style of this isolated Pacific population is almost completely Westernized and they have been shown to have a very high diabetes prevalence rate. Nearly all food consumed by the islanders is imported from Australia. The main caloric intake of both males and females was at least twice those recommended for Western or developing Pacific populations. The diet meets or exceeds the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council recommended allowance for calories, protein, fat, and ascorbic acid, but thiamin intake was inadequate. The percentage of fat in the diet was lower than that consumer by Western populations. Obesity is a pronounced feature of this population and the high caloric intake coupled with reduced physical activity would appear to be a major factor in relation to this. This Micronesian group has a genetic susceptibility to diabetes which may have been unmasked by the change from traditional to Western life-style. This problem may not be unique to Nauru and, with progressive Westernization, many other Polynesian and Micronesian populations may be at risk.", "PMID": 443194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5958", "title": "Opposite changes in aggregability of platelets stored in plasma and in blood.", "content": "The effect of storage on the aggregability of platelets in plasma and in whole blood was studied with blood samples obtained from 11 normal subjects. Compared to aggregation of platelets in fresh samples, those stored in plasma showed an increase in aggregation, and in whole blood a decrease in aggregation. The decreased aggregation in the latter samples was prevented by including exogenous glucose in stored blood samples. Similar studies were performed on 25 patient platelet samples that had been judged as hyperaggregable by standard procedure, including the presence of \"spontaneous\" aggretation in 13 specimens. Only seven samples prepared from stored blood still showed hyperaggregability; spontaneous aggregation remained in only five samples.", "contents": "Opposite changes in aggregability of platelets stored in plasma and in blood. The effect of storage on the aggregability of platelets in plasma and in whole blood was studied with blood samples obtained from 11 normal subjects. Compared to aggregation of platelets in fresh samples, those stored in plasma showed an increase in aggregation, and in whole blood a decrease in aggregation. The decreased aggregation in the latter samples was prevented by including exogenous glucose in stored blood samples. Similar studies were performed on 25 patient platelet samples that had been judged as hyperaggregable by standard procedure, including the presence of \"spontaneous\" aggretation in 13 specimens. Only seven samples prepared from stored blood still showed hyperaggregability; spontaneous aggregation remained in only five samples.", "PMID": 443195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5959", "title": "Comparison of microchromatography and electrophoresis with elution for hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) quantitation.", "content": "Microcolumns prepared in the authors' laboratory, two commercial microchromatography kits, and electrophoresis with elution were compared for Hb A2 quantitation. Day-to-day imprecision of microchromatographic methods was similar (CV 4.7--6.6%) and somewhat less than electrophoresis with elution (CV 8.0--9.1%). Both commercial kits showed variable imprecision in different lots; one lot of Kit B gave erratic results due to resin leakage. From 49 patient specimens, Kit A microcolumns and those of the authors identified the same 14 patients with an elevated percentage of Hb A2 and showed good correlation (P = 0.90), although Kit A showed constant bias toward higher values. Electrophoresis with elution resulted in a false-positive and a false-negative value, did not correlate well with microcolumns (P = 0.78 and 0.76), and showed proportional bias toward lower values for an elevated percentage of Hb A2. Commercial kits were convenient, relatively quick, and cost-effective. Frozen, stabilized hemolysates performed well for quality control.", "contents": "Comparison of microchromatography and electrophoresis with elution for hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) quantitation. Microcolumns prepared in the authors' laboratory, two commercial microchromatography kits, and electrophoresis with elution were compared for Hb A2 quantitation. Day-to-day imprecision of microchromatographic methods was similar (CV 4.7--6.6%) and somewhat less than electrophoresis with elution (CV 8.0--9.1%). Both commercial kits showed variable imprecision in different lots; one lot of Kit B gave erratic results due to resin leakage. From 49 patient specimens, Kit A microcolumns and those of the authors identified the same 14 patients with an elevated percentage of Hb A2 and showed good correlation (P = 0.90), although Kit A showed constant bias toward higher values. Electrophoresis with elution resulted in a false-positive and a false-negative value, did not correlate well with microcolumns (P = 0.78 and 0.76), and showed proportional bias toward lower values for an elevated percentage of Hb A2. Commercial kits were convenient, relatively quick, and cost-effective. Frozen, stabilized hemolysates performed well for quality control.", "PMID": 443196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5960", "title": "Heparin monitoring and thrombosis.", "content": "The activated parial thromboplastin time is susceptible to changing concentrations of factor VII even in the presence of heparin. Heparin delays, but does not abolisn, thrombin generation, and this delay is obviated by factor VIII. It is not known if activated parial thromboplastin time shortened by increased factor VIII demands an increase in heparin administration.", "contents": "Heparin monitoring and thrombosis. The activated parial thromboplastin time is susceptible to changing concentrations of factor VII even in the presence of heparin. Heparin delays, but does not abolisn, thrombin generation, and this delay is obviated by factor VIII. It is not known if activated parial thromboplastin time shortened by increased factor VIII demands an increase in heparin administration.", "PMID": 443197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5961", "title": "Normal serum iron and elevated total iron-binding capacity in iron-deficiency states.", "content": "Five nonanemic patients with normal erythrocytic indexes were found to have normal serum iron, elevated total iron-binding capacity, normal percentage of saturation of transferrin, and depleted bone marrow iron stores. These findings suggest that during the development of iron deficiency, an elevation of total iron-binding capacity occurs before the decrease of the serum iron. This may represent a compensatory mechanism to mobilize all traces of tissue iron to maintain normal erythropoiesis.", "contents": "Normal serum iron and elevated total iron-binding capacity in iron-deficiency states. Five nonanemic patients with normal erythrocytic indexes were found to have normal serum iron, elevated total iron-binding capacity, normal percentage of saturation of transferrin, and depleted bone marrow iron stores. These findings suggest that during the development of iron deficiency, an elevation of total iron-binding capacity occurs before the decrease of the serum iron. This may represent a compensatory mechanism to mobilize all traces of tissue iron to maintain normal erythropoiesis.", "PMID": 443198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5962", "title": "Ultrastructural study of human IgG and IgG-IgM crystalcryoglobulins.", "content": "Thirty human cryoglobulin precipitates obtained from 21 patients were fixed and examined by electron microscopy; following biochemical isolation and identification. This study showed that the fine structure of cryoprecipitates depends on the involved immunoglobulins and on their respective quantities. Monoclonal IgG kappa 1 or 3 cryoglobulins with antibody activity form crystalling precipitates of 22-nm diameter rods and annuli. When polyclonal, they form 6-nm-wide filaments. Mixed IgG and IgM cryoprecipitates appear as cylindric and annular bodies with an internal diameter of 12 nm and a total diameter of 62 nm. When IgM predominates over IgG, globular condensations with a diameter of 30 nm are seen. Mixtures in which the IgG is more abundant than the IgM include fingerprint-like periodic condensations.", "contents": "Ultrastructural study of human IgG and IgG-IgM crystalcryoglobulins. Thirty human cryoglobulin precipitates obtained from 21 patients were fixed and examined by electron microscopy; following biochemical isolation and identification. This study showed that the fine structure of cryoprecipitates depends on the involved immunoglobulins and on their respective quantities. Monoclonal IgG kappa 1 or 3 cryoglobulins with antibody activity form crystalling precipitates of 22-nm diameter rods and annuli. When polyclonal, they form 6-nm-wide filaments. Mixed IgG and IgM cryoprecipitates appear as cylindric and annular bodies with an internal diameter of 12 nm and a total diameter of 62 nm. When IgM predominates over IgG, globular condensations with a diameter of 30 nm are seen. Mixtures in which the IgG is more abundant than the IgM include fingerprint-like periodic condensations.", "PMID": 443199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5963", "title": "A computer system for cytology in a private laboratory using a PDP 8/E minicomputer.", "content": "A computer software package written in Dibol for a PDP 8/E computer is described that is designed for the needs of the cytology department of a moderate-sized private medical laboratory. Computerized accessioning of cases, report preparation and printing, historical filing, activity summary reports, and direct patient and physician billing are provided by the relatively inexpensive system. The software has been in use for over two years in our cytology department and has resulted in increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of reports.", "contents": "A computer system for cytology in a private laboratory using a PDP 8/E minicomputer. A computer software package written in Dibol for a PDP 8/E computer is described that is designed for the needs of the cytology department of a moderate-sized private medical laboratory. Computerized accessioning of cases, report preparation and printing, historical filing, activity summary reports, and direct patient and physician billing are provided by the relatively inexpensive system. The software has been in use for over two years in our cytology department and has resulted in increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of reports.", "PMID": 443200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5964", "title": "Quantitation of serum tobramycin concentration using high-pressure liquid chromatography.", "content": "A high-pressure liquid chromatography method for the quantitative determination of tobramycin in serum is described. The antibiotic was separated from serum by chromatography on a silica gel column. The adsorbed antibiotic was derivatized with o-phthalaldehyde, and then eluted with isopropanol. The derivatized tobramycin was separated by reverse-phase chromatography and quantitated by fluorometry. Serum concentrations as low as 0.5 microgram/ml could be accurately measured. A linear response for serum samples containing tobramycin ranging from 0 to 20 microgram/ml was obtained. Other antibiotics, including various aminoglycosides, did not interfere with the tobramycin assay. Comparison with a standard microbiologic assay gave a correlation coefficient of 0.99. This chemical assay is sensitive, precise, specific, and can be performed in 30 minutes.", "contents": "Quantitation of serum tobramycin concentration using high-pressure liquid chromatography. A high-pressure liquid chromatography method for the quantitative determination of tobramycin in serum is described. The antibiotic was separated from serum by chromatography on a silica gel column. The adsorbed antibiotic was derivatized with o-phthalaldehyde, and then eluted with isopropanol. The derivatized tobramycin was separated by reverse-phase chromatography and quantitated by fluorometry. Serum concentrations as low as 0.5 microgram/ml could be accurately measured. A linear response for serum samples containing tobramycin ranging from 0 to 20 microgram/ml was obtained. Other antibiotics, including various aminoglycosides, did not interfere with the tobramycin assay. Comparison with a standard microbiologic assay gave a correlation coefficient of 0.99. This chemical assay is sensitive, precise, specific, and can be performed in 30 minutes.", "PMID": 443201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5965", "title": "Simple modification of the cellulose acetate method for identifying adult hemoglobin (hemoglobin A) in dried specimens of newborn blood.", "content": "Definition of hemoglobin A in cellulose acetate electrophoretograms of eluate from air-dried specimens of newborns' blood was improved by adding glycerine to the Tris--ethylenediametetraacetic acid--borate buffer system. Examination of 1,672 randomly received samples showed no reduction in ability to detect hemoglobin S with the modified buffer. The method may be adopted as a useful adjunct to current technics for rapid electrophoretic screening of neonatal dried blood samples.", "contents": "Simple modification of the cellulose acetate method for identifying adult hemoglobin (hemoglobin A) in dried specimens of newborn blood. Definition of hemoglobin A in cellulose acetate electrophoretograms of eluate from air-dried specimens of newborns' blood was improved by adding glycerine to the Tris--ethylenediametetraacetic acid--borate buffer system. Examination of 1,672 randomly received samples showed no reduction in ability to detect hemoglobin S with the modified buffer. The method may be adopted as a useful adjunct to current technics for rapid electrophoretic screening of neonatal dried blood samples.", "PMID": 443202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5966", "title": "Serum glycine-conjugated bile acids in pediatric hepatobiliary disorders.", "content": "Measurements of serum bile acids (glycine conjugates of cholic, chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic, and lithocholic acids) by radioimmunoassay in a variety of pediatric hepatobiliary disorders showed elevations in neonatal hepatitis syndromes, cholestasis, and hepatitis of extrahepatic or intrahepatic origin. Measurements of individual serum bile acids failed to differentiate between the various neonatal hepatitis syndromes. In one patient with cholestasis, the increased levels of bile acids observed returned to normal following therapy with cholestyramine and phenobarbital. In chronic active hepatitis the serum bile acid values correlated well with the bilirubin and SGOT in response to therapy with corticosteroids. These data confirm suggestions that serum cholylglycine and chenodeoxycholylglycine levels are a sensitive indicator of disturbed hepatic function and can be used in monitoring the course, activity, and therapeutic response in various hepatitis syndromes. In Reye's syndrome and protracted diarrhea of infancy, elevations in serum bile acids were detected without associated hyperbilirubinemia and provided additional evidence of disturbed hepatic function.", "contents": "Serum glycine-conjugated bile acids in pediatric hepatobiliary disorders. Measurements of serum bile acids (glycine conjugates of cholic, chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic, and lithocholic acids) by radioimmunoassay in a variety of pediatric hepatobiliary disorders showed elevations in neonatal hepatitis syndromes, cholestasis, and hepatitis of extrahepatic or intrahepatic origin. Measurements of individual serum bile acids failed to differentiate between the various neonatal hepatitis syndromes. In one patient with cholestasis, the increased levels of bile acids observed returned to normal following therapy with cholestyramine and phenobarbital. In chronic active hepatitis the serum bile acid values correlated well with the bilirubin and SGOT in response to therapy with corticosteroids. These data confirm suggestions that serum cholylglycine and chenodeoxycholylglycine levels are a sensitive indicator of disturbed hepatic function and can be used in monitoring the course, activity, and therapeutic response in various hepatitis syndromes. In Reye's syndrome and protracted diarrhea of infancy, elevations in serum bile acids were detected without associated hyperbilirubinemia and provided additional evidence of disturbed hepatic function.", "PMID": 443203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5967", "title": "Usefulness of macroscopic urinalysis as a screening procedure. A preliminary report.", "content": "The macroscopic examination (physicochemical testing) is a sufficient laboratory screening procedure for routine urinalyses when accurately assessed. Only in those patients for whom routine urine specimens are macroscopically positive or in symptomatic patients with or without known renal or urinary-tract disease should a microscopic examination be necessary. Results of this study of more than 900 consecutive routinely screened urine specimens indicate that there is less than a 3% diagnostic yield when the urine sediment is examined after a negative macroscopic examination.", "contents": "Usefulness of macroscopic urinalysis as a screening procedure. A preliminary report. The macroscopic examination (physicochemical testing) is a sufficient laboratory screening procedure for routine urinalyses when accurately assessed. Only in those patients for whom routine urine specimens are macroscopically positive or in symptomatic patients with or without known renal or urinary-tract disease should a microscopic examination be necessary. Results of this study of more than 900 consecutive routinely screened urine specimens indicate that there is less than a 3% diagnostic yield when the urine sediment is examined after a negative macroscopic examination.", "PMID": 443204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5968", "title": "A program for residency training in clinical pathology.", "content": "The goals, organization, components, instruction approaches, and the continuing assessment of a clinical pathology residency program are described. This program emphasizes training by rotation in the services of the clinical laboratory, application and interpretation of laboratory data for patient care, laboratory management, teaching conferences, and research and development.", "contents": "A program for residency training in clinical pathology. The goals, organization, components, instruction approaches, and the continuing assessment of a clinical pathology residency program are described. This program emphasizes training by rotation in the services of the clinical laboratory, application and interpretation of laboratory data for patient care, laboratory management, teaching conferences, and research and development.", "PMID": 443205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5969", "title": "An intrinsic coagulation pathway inhibitor in a 3-year-old child.", "content": "An intrinsic coagulation pathway inhibitor with acitivty against factor XI was detected in the plasma of a 3-year-old child, following a respiratory infection. The inhibitor was present transiently, but it was clinically significant and was manifiested by extensive bruises. Abnormalities of clotting and the bruising tendency disappeared simultaneously without treatment before the inhibitor could be definitively characterized. It was possibly the consequence of an adenovirus infection, as an elevated adenovirus titer was demonstrated in the patient's blood. It is possible that inhibitors of this type are more common sequelae of viral infections than realized, and perhaps a systematic effort should be made to detect them and to define their etiology and mechanism of action.", "contents": "An intrinsic coagulation pathway inhibitor in a 3-year-old child. An intrinsic coagulation pathway inhibitor with acitivty against factor XI was detected in the plasma of a 3-year-old child, following a respiratory infection. The inhibitor was present transiently, but it was clinically significant and was manifiested by extensive bruises. Abnormalities of clotting and the bruising tendency disappeared simultaneously without treatment before the inhibitor could be definitively characterized. It was possibly the consequence of an adenovirus infection, as an elevated adenovirus titer was demonstrated in the patient's blood. It is possible that inhibitors of this type are more common sequelae of viral infections than realized, and perhaps a systematic effort should be made to detect them and to define their etiology and mechanism of action.", "PMID": 443207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5970", "title": "In-vitro synthesis of an anti-BI cold agglutinin complicating a case of lymphoma.", "content": "A woman of 47 with lymphocytic lymphoma was found to have a high-titer cold autoagglutinin of anit-BI specificity. Her group B erythrocytes autoagglutinated of anti-BI specificity. Her group B erythrocytes autoagglutinated in vitro and the direct antiglobulin reaction was positive, but she had no symptom of cold intolerance, no evidence of hemolysis, and she could receive transfusions of compatible group O erythrocytes. In addition, evidence for synthesis of the autoantibody by the lymphoma cells was obtained by short-term bone-marrow culture.", "contents": "In-vitro synthesis of an anti-BI cold agglutinin complicating a case of lymphoma. A woman of 47 with lymphocytic lymphoma was found to have a high-titer cold autoagglutinin of anit-BI specificity. Her group B erythrocytes autoagglutinated of anti-BI specificity. Her group B erythrocytes autoagglutinated in vitro and the direct antiglobulin reaction was positive, but she had no symptom of cold intolerance, no evidence of hemolysis, and she could receive transfusions of compatible group O erythrocytes. In addition, evidence for synthesis of the autoantibody by the lymphoma cells was obtained by short-term bone-marrow culture.", "PMID": 443208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5971", "title": "Wound infection associated with Vibrio alginolyticus.", "content": "A 42-year-old man had an infected ulcerated lesion of the anterior aspect of the right lower extremity. Vibrio alginolyticus was twice isolated from the lesion. Emphasis is placed on the clinical and laboratory characteristics of this organism and its differentiation from other halophilic vibrios.", "contents": "Wound infection associated with Vibrio alginolyticus. A 42-year-old man had an infected ulcerated lesion of the anterior aspect of the right lower extremity. Vibrio alginolyticus was twice isolated from the lesion. Emphasis is placed on the clinical and laboratory characteristics of this organism and its differentiation from other halophilic vibrios.", "PMID": 443209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5972", "title": "Primary ovarian failure, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and vitiligo.", "content": "A female adolescent with primary ovarian failure was found to have circulating autoantibodies to her ovaries. Primary ovarian failure in pediatrics is usually attributed to gonadal dysgenesis. Autoimmune oophoritis is a rare cause and is most often associated with Addison's disease and other autoimmune endocrinopathies. Our patient also had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and vitiligo. To our knowledge, this case represents the first reported instance of this particular constellation of autoimmune disorders.", "contents": "Primary ovarian failure, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and vitiligo. A female adolescent with primary ovarian failure was found to have circulating autoantibodies to her ovaries. Primary ovarian failure in pediatrics is usually attributed to gonadal dysgenesis. Autoimmune oophoritis is a rare cause and is most often associated with Addison's disease and other autoimmune endocrinopathies. Our patient also had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and vitiligo. To our knowledge, this case represents the first reported instance of this particular constellation of autoimmune disorders.", "PMID": 443214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5973", "title": "Pneumococcal sepsis and pneumonia in the neonate.", "content": "Two neonates had early onset Diplococcus pneumoniae septicemia and pneumonia. Both recovered after intensive respiratory and antibiotic therapy, although a review of the literature indicates that early pneumococcal septicemia has been associated with an extremely high mortality. Pneumococcal septicemia in a one-year period accounted for 12% of all documented neonatal bacteremias. This may indicate an increasing incidence of this organism in newborns.", "contents": "Pneumococcal sepsis and pneumonia in the neonate. Two neonates had early onset Diplococcus pneumoniae septicemia and pneumonia. Both recovered after intensive respiratory and antibiotic therapy, although a review of the literature indicates that early pneumococcal septicemia has been associated with an extremely high mortality. Pneumococcal septicemia in a one-year period accounted for 12% of all documented neonatal bacteremias. This may indicate an increasing incidence of this organism in newborns.", "PMID": 443215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5974", "title": "Acute Haemophilus pneumonia in childhood.", "content": "In our hospital Haemophilus influenzae type B seems to be a common cause of acute childhood pneumonia. In the past five years, 34 children with acute Haemophilus pneumonia were identified. Although these children generally had an uncomplicated segmental pneumonia associated with a bacteremia, 13 of the children had pneumonia with a pleural effusion. These children with Haemophilus pneumonia represented 18% of the children hospitalized with systemic Haemophilus disease and almost a third of those hospitalized with acute bacterial pneumonia from whom the causal agent was isolated.", "contents": "Acute Haemophilus pneumonia in childhood. In our hospital Haemophilus influenzae type B seems to be a common cause of acute childhood pneumonia. In the past five years, 34 children with acute Haemophilus pneumonia were identified. Although these children generally had an uncomplicated segmental pneumonia associated with a bacteremia, 13 of the children had pneumonia with a pleural effusion. These children with Haemophilus pneumonia represented 18% of the children hospitalized with systemic Haemophilus disease and almost a third of those hospitalized with acute bacterial pneumonia from whom the causal agent was isolated.", "PMID": 443216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5975", "title": "Prosthetic valve endocarditis due to Haemophilus parainfluenzae biotype II.", "content": "Haemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis is characterized by great variation in the acuteness of presentation, difficulty in isolation of the pathogen, a 50% to 60% incidence of major arterial emboli, and variability of response to therapy. Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) due to H parainfluenzae biotype II occurred in a 14-year-old girl with congenital heart disease and a Starr-Edwards mitral valve prosthesis. Management was complicated by a prolonged culture-negative period (eight days), intermittent bacteremia (only five of 15 positive blood cultures), an embolus to the right femoral artery, progressive congestive heart failure, and urgent prosthestic valve replacement. Cure was achieved with 44 days of ampicillin sodium-gentamicin sulfate therapy monitored by serum bactericidal titers.", "contents": "Prosthetic valve endocarditis due to Haemophilus parainfluenzae biotype II. Haemophilus parainfluenzae endocarditis is characterized by great variation in the acuteness of presentation, difficulty in isolation of the pathogen, a 50% to 60% incidence of major arterial emboli, and variability of response to therapy. Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) due to H parainfluenzae biotype II occurred in a 14-year-old girl with congenital heart disease and a Starr-Edwards mitral valve prosthesis. Management was complicated by a prolonged culture-negative period (eight days), intermittent bacteremia (only five of 15 positive blood cultures), an embolus to the right femoral artery, progressive congestive heart failure, and urgent prosthestic valve replacement. Cure was achieved with 44 days of ampicillin sodium-gentamicin sulfate therapy monitored by serum bactericidal titers.", "PMID": 443217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5976", "title": "Phototherapy and plasma immunoreactive prostaglandin A values. Its effect in premature infants.", "content": "Plasma immunoreactive prostaglandin A (iPGA) values were determined for 14 premature infants before and after 48 hours of phototherapy and in a control group of six age-matched premature infants. At 4 to 8 days of life, the infants who had received phototherapy for 48 hours had significantly lower iPGA values compared with controls. At 2 to 3 days of life, four infants with a clinically apparent patent ductus arteriosus were found to have significantly elevated iPGA values compared with controls. After 48 hours of phototherapy, these infants likewise had a significant decrease in iPGA values compared with controls; in all four infants, the ductus closed spontaneously. Phototherapy is an effective method for decreasing plasma iPGA values in premature infants.", "contents": "Phototherapy and plasma immunoreactive prostaglandin A values. Its effect in premature infants. Plasma immunoreactive prostaglandin A (iPGA) values were determined for 14 premature infants before and after 48 hours of phototherapy and in a control group of six age-matched premature infants. At 4 to 8 days of life, the infants who had received phototherapy for 48 hours had significantly lower iPGA values compared with controls. At 2 to 3 days of life, four infants with a clinically apparent patent ductus arteriosus were found to have significantly elevated iPGA values compared with controls. After 48 hours of phototherapy, these infants likewise had a significant decrease in iPGA values compared with controls; in all four infants, the ductus closed spontaneously. Phototherapy is an effective method for decreasing plasma iPGA values in premature infants.", "PMID": 443218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5977", "title": "Demineralization in cystic fibrosis detected by direct photon absorptiometry.", "content": "Bone mineral content, bone width, and their ratio were measured in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) using monoenergetic photon absorptiometry. Serial measurements of the radius and ulna were made in 27 patients with CF and were compared with 968 age-matched controls. Demineralization was found in 37% of the boys and 63% of the girls. Patients under age 10 years had normal bone mineral content and nine of 15 patients aged 13 or older were demineralized (P less than .01). Demineralization correlated with the extent of weight reduction in patients (P less than .001). Patients most likely to be demineralized were adolescent girls. To our knowledge, this is the first report of bone mineral status of children with CF, and the results indicate that a sizable proportion of these patients may be demineralized without overt rickets.", "contents": "Demineralization in cystic fibrosis detected by direct photon absorptiometry. Bone mineral content, bone width, and their ratio were measured in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) using monoenergetic photon absorptiometry. Serial measurements of the radius and ulna were made in 27 patients with CF and were compared with 968 age-matched controls. Demineralization was found in 37% of the boys and 63% of the girls. Patients under age 10 years had normal bone mineral content and nine of 15 patients aged 13 or older were demineralized (P less than .01). Demineralization correlated with the extent of weight reduction in patients (P less than .001). Patients most likely to be demineralized were adolescent girls. To our knowledge, this is the first report of bone mineral status of children with CF, and the results indicate that a sizable proportion of these patients may be demineralized without overt rickets.", "PMID": 443220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5978", "title": "Gallium-67-citrate scanning in tuberculous peritonitis.", "content": "A 32-year old black, alcoholic male was noted to have an abnormal Gallium-67-citrate scan during a work-up for persistent fever. Surgical biopsies revealed findings of the dry form of tuberculosis peritonitis. The literature concerning Gallium-67-citrate scanning was reviewed and its usefulness in inflammatory disease states (including two reports of positive scans in tuberculous peritonitis) was demonstrated. In addition, we have considered the possible mechanisms of Gallium-67-citrate uptake by inflammatory cells and its probable relationship to the granulomas associated with tuberculous peritonitis. We conclude that Gallium-67-citrate scanning is an important diagnostic procedure in the evaluation of a fever of unknown origin. Moreover, it may significantly shorten the diagnostic work-up of those cases of tuberculous peritonitis.", "contents": "Gallium-67-citrate scanning in tuberculous peritonitis. A 32-year old black, alcoholic male was noted to have an abnormal Gallium-67-citrate scan during a work-up for persistent fever. Surgical biopsies revealed findings of the dry form of tuberculosis peritonitis. The literature concerning Gallium-67-citrate scanning was reviewed and its usefulness in inflammatory disease states (including two reports of positive scans in tuberculous peritonitis) was demonstrated. In addition, we have considered the possible mechanisms of Gallium-67-citrate uptake by inflammatory cells and its probable relationship to the granulomas associated with tuberculous peritonitis. We conclude that Gallium-67-citrate scanning is an important diagnostic procedure in the evaluation of a fever of unknown origin. Moreover, it may significantly shorten the diagnostic work-up of those cases of tuberculous peritonitis.", "PMID": 443228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5979", "title": "Endoscopic, histological and ultrastructural correlations in chronic gastritis.", "content": "Thirty-three patients presenting with dyspepsia were examined with the Olympus Fiber-gastroscope. An endoscopic diagnosis was made in each case and multiple gastric biopsies were obtained for histological and ultrastructural assessment. The endoscopic, histological and ultrastructural findings were compared with each other. Of 33 patients endoscoped, 29 were found to have endoscopic evidence of various types of gastritis and all of these latter had histological evidence of some form of gastritis. Histological confirmation of specific types of endoscopically diagnosed gastritis, however, was only found in 3/9 cases of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), 10/14 cases of chronic (superficial) gastritis (CG) and in none of six cases of acute gastritis (AG), indicating that endoscopic diagnosis of specific types of gastritis is relatively inaccurate. Endoscopic diagnosis should thus be restricted to presence or absence of gastritis, leaving the specific typing to histological assessment of the gastric biopsies. Multiple gastric biopsies should be obtained even though the gastric mucosa appears normal endoscopically, since histological evidence of gastritis was found in three out of four cases with endoscopically normal gastric mucosa. Comparison of histological diagnosis with electron microscopy showed that generally there is good correlation between the severity of the histological changes and the ultrastructural grade of damage as defined in this study. It would appear that E.M. examination of the gastric biopsies will not significantly increase the diagnostic accuracy of light microscopy, although it has elucidated the various cellular changes which characterize chronic gastritis. The rough surface contours, the large gastric pit and the increasing number of surface microvilli, seen by scanning E.M., aid the grading of the disease process. Some of these changes are reflected in observations made by transmission E.M. where in addition the basal intercellular edema of the mucosal layer and the appearance of electron-dense mucosal lining cells are observed. The latter, which are the counterpart of \"intestinal metaplasia\", possess mucus granules which resemble those of gastric mucosal lining cells or intestinal goblet cells, or both.", "contents": "Endoscopic, histological and ultrastructural correlations in chronic gastritis. Thirty-three patients presenting with dyspepsia were examined with the Olympus Fiber-gastroscope. An endoscopic diagnosis was made in each case and multiple gastric biopsies were obtained for histological and ultrastructural assessment. The endoscopic, histological and ultrastructural findings were compared with each other. Of 33 patients endoscoped, 29 were found to have endoscopic evidence of various types of gastritis and all of these latter had histological evidence of some form of gastritis. Histological confirmation of specific types of endoscopically diagnosed gastritis, however, was only found in 3/9 cases of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), 10/14 cases of chronic (superficial) gastritis (CG) and in none of six cases of acute gastritis (AG), indicating that endoscopic diagnosis of specific types of gastritis is relatively inaccurate. Endoscopic diagnosis should thus be restricted to presence or absence of gastritis, leaving the specific typing to histological assessment of the gastric biopsies. Multiple gastric biopsies should be obtained even though the gastric mucosa appears normal endoscopically, since histological evidence of gastritis was found in three out of four cases with endoscopically normal gastric mucosa. Comparison of histological diagnosis with electron microscopy showed that generally there is good correlation between the severity of the histological changes and the ultrastructural grade of damage as defined in this study. It would appear that E.M. examination of the gastric biopsies will not significantly increase the diagnostic accuracy of light microscopy, although it has elucidated the various cellular changes which characterize chronic gastritis. The rough surface contours, the large gastric pit and the increasing number of surface microvilli, seen by scanning E.M., aid the grading of the disease process. Some of these changes are reflected in observations made by transmission E.M. where in addition the basal intercellular edema of the mucosal layer and the appearance of electron-dense mucosal lining cells are observed. The latter, which are the counterpart of \"intestinal metaplasia\", possess mucus granules which resemble those of gastric mucosal lining cells or intestinal goblet cells, or both.", "PMID": 443229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5980", "title": "Gallstone-linked tubular stenosis of the common bile duct.", "content": "The transpancreatic segment of the distal common bile duct can be extrinsically stenosed by a pure gallstone-linked pancreatic disorder. It has a specific roentgen configuration--long, tubular and smooth. In two instances it was associated with severe suppurative complications. Precholedochotomy cholangiography is required to identify such long segment benign tubular stenosis of the distal common bile duct as an indication for management alternatives and as a guide to judicious common bile duct exploration.", "contents": "Gallstone-linked tubular stenosis of the common bile duct. The transpancreatic segment of the distal common bile duct can be extrinsically stenosed by a pure gallstone-linked pancreatic disorder. It has a specific roentgen configuration--long, tubular and smooth. In two instances it was associated with severe suppurative complications. Precholedochotomy cholangiography is required to identify such long segment benign tubular stenosis of the distal common bile duct as an indication for management alternatives and as a guide to judicious common bile duct exploration.", "PMID": 443230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5981", "title": "Hyperhaptoglobinemia and carcinoma of the gallbladder.", "content": "Cancer of the gallbladder is an uncommon malignancy which is seldom diagnosed early and often denotes a poor prognosis. Two reported cases describe the association of hyperhaptoglobinemia (greater than 700 mg./dl.) and advanced carcinoma of the gallbladder. When a patient presents with liver involvement from metastatic adenocarcinoma of suspected gastrointestinal origin and a markedly elevated serum haptoglobin (greater than 700 mg./dl.), it is suggested that a high index of suspicion be held for carcinoma of the gallbladder.", "contents": "Hyperhaptoglobinemia and carcinoma of the gallbladder. Cancer of the gallbladder is an uncommon malignancy which is seldom diagnosed early and often denotes a poor prognosis. Two reported cases describe the association of hyperhaptoglobinemia (greater than 700 mg./dl.) and advanced carcinoma of the gallbladder. When a patient presents with liver involvement from metastatic adenocarcinoma of suspected gastrointestinal origin and a markedly elevated serum haptoglobin (greater than 700 mg./dl.), it is suggested that a high index of suspicion be held for carcinoma of the gallbladder.", "PMID": 443231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5982", "title": "Meat bolus impaction of the lower esophagus associated with a paraesophageal hernia. Successful noninvasive treatment with intravenous glucagon.", "content": "Ferrucci and Long recently reported the relief of esophageal food impaction with the use of intravenous glucagon in three patients. Our first experience in using this new procedure was very successful and gratifying. The essence and purpose of this brief communication is to record and further substantiate the efficacy of a new treatment modality.", "contents": "Meat bolus impaction of the lower esophagus associated with a paraesophageal hernia. Successful noninvasive treatment with intravenous glucagon. Ferrucci and Long recently reported the relief of esophageal food impaction with the use of intravenous glucagon in three patients. Our first experience in using this new procedure was very successful and gratifying. The essence and purpose of this brief communication is to record and further substantiate the efficacy of a new treatment modality.", "PMID": 443232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5983", "title": "Stricture of the esophagogastric junction with adjacent extraluminal cavity following radiation.", "content": "We report a radiation stricture of the esophagogastric junction with an adjacent extraluminal cavity formed secondary to radiation in a patient receiving 4,500 rads for a histiocytic lymphoma of the stomach. We suggest that the presence of a radiosensitive lymphoma may have undermined the normal reparative response to radiation of the esophagogastric junction and predisposed it to stricture and cavity formation at this dose of radiation.", "contents": "Stricture of the esophagogastric junction with adjacent extraluminal cavity following radiation. We report a radiation stricture of the esophagogastric junction with an adjacent extraluminal cavity formed secondary to radiation in a patient receiving 4,500 rads for a histiocytic lymphoma of the stomach. We suggest that the presence of a radiosensitive lymphoma may have undermined the normal reparative response to radiation of the esophagogastric junction and predisposed it to stricture and cavity formation at this dose of radiation.", "PMID": 443233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5984", "title": "Intramural hematoma of the gastric cardia.", "content": "A case of intramural hematoma of the gastric cardia occurring in a young woman with S.L.E. and on warfarin is presented and discussed. This unusual case illustrates the importance of careful evaluation of radiological mass lesions of the cardia.", "contents": "Intramural hematoma of the gastric cardia. A case of intramural hematoma of the gastric cardia occurring in a young woman with S.L.E. and on warfarin is presented and discussed. This unusual case illustrates the importance of careful evaluation of radiological mass lesions of the cardia.", "PMID": 443234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5985", "title": "Surgical treatment for pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis complicating jejunoileal by-pass.", "content": "A case of chronic pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis, complicating jejunoileal by-pass procedure for morbid obesity, is described. Grave clinical symptoms associated with irreversible segmental mucosal atrophy and mural fibrosis resulting from untreated long-standing pneumatosis intestinalis, required resection of the whole by-passed small intestine. It is suggested that this simple and safe surgical procedure is justified in selected cases. Conservative treatment of asymptomatic patients with pneumatosis intestinalis, however, may prevent further surgical intervention in these patients.", "contents": "Surgical treatment for pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis complicating jejunoileal by-pass. A case of chronic pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis, complicating jejunoileal by-pass procedure for morbid obesity, is described. Grave clinical symptoms associated with irreversible segmental mucosal atrophy and mural fibrosis resulting from untreated long-standing pneumatosis intestinalis, required resection of the whole by-passed small intestine. It is suggested that this simple and safe surgical procedure is justified in selected cases. Conservative treatment of asymptomatic patients with pneumatosis intestinalis, however, may prevent further surgical intervention in these patients.", "PMID": 443235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5986", "title": "Emphysematous cholecystitis.", "content": "The radiographic spectrum of emphysematous cholecystitis can be divided into three stages. Diagnosis on plain abdominal film is difficult in the first stage. Two cases are presented in which a circular gas filled structure in the right upper quadrant led to a correct diagnosis in the earliest stage. This was confirmed by obtaining contrast studies to rule out other etiologies.", "contents": "Emphysematous cholecystitis. The radiographic spectrum of emphysematous cholecystitis can be divided into three stages. Diagnosis on plain abdominal film is difficult in the first stage. Two cases are presented in which a circular gas filled structure in the right upper quadrant led to a correct diagnosis in the earliest stage. This was confirmed by obtaining contrast studies to rule out other etiologies.", "PMID": 443236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5987", "title": "Relationship of relevant factors of atherosclerosis to menopause in Japanese women.", "content": "The relationship of menopause to associated factors of atherosclerosis was investigated during October 1973 to December 1976. The subjects were 1674 premenopausal and 428 postmenopausal women aged 35 to 54, who were living in Toda city, an urban area of Japan. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride were higher in postmenopausal women than in premenopausal women. This trend was also observed in serum uric acid and blood hemoglobin. On the other hand, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and relative body weight had no consistent relationship to menopause.", "contents": "Relationship of relevant factors of atherosclerosis to menopause in Japanese women. The relationship of menopause to associated factors of atherosclerosis was investigated during October 1973 to December 1976. The subjects were 1674 premenopausal and 428 postmenopausal women aged 35 to 54, who were living in Toda city, an urban area of Japan. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride were higher in postmenopausal women than in premenopausal women. This trend was also observed in serum uric acid and blood hemoglobin. On the other hand, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and relative body weight had no consistent relationship to menopause.", "PMID": 443240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5988", "title": "Exogenous hormones and other drug exposures of children with congenital heart disease.", "content": "A history of oral contraceptive use, hormonal pregnancy tests, prescribed hormones and other drugs was obtained from 390 mothers of infants with congenital heart disease and 1254 mothers of normal infants in Massachusetts. The data show a small positive association between estrogen/progesterone exposure and cardiac malformation, the prevalence ratio estimate of exposed to non-exposed being 1.5 (90 per cent confidence limits are 1.0, 2.1). No association was evident, however, between hormones and trunco-conal or any other class of defect among the cases, an observation which casts doubt on a causal relationship betweem hormones and cardiovascular malformations. Several other drugs were reported more frequently by cases' mothers. These include: ampicillin; aspirin; a combined anti-nausea agent (doxylamine succinate, dicyclomine hydrochloride and pyridoxine hydrochloride); chlordiazopoxide, codeine, diazepam, diphenylhydantoin; insulin; phenobarbital; phenothiazine; phenylephrine; and tetracycline.", "contents": "Exogenous hormones and other drug exposures of children with congenital heart disease. A history of oral contraceptive use, hormonal pregnancy tests, prescribed hormones and other drugs was obtained from 390 mothers of infants with congenital heart disease and 1254 mothers of normal infants in Massachusetts. The data show a small positive association between estrogen/progesterone exposure and cardiac malformation, the prevalence ratio estimate of exposed to non-exposed being 1.5 (90 per cent confidence limits are 1.0, 2.1). No association was evident, however, between hormones and trunco-conal or any other class of defect among the cases, an observation which casts doubt on a causal relationship betweem hormones and cardiovascular malformations. Several other drugs were reported more frequently by cases' mothers. These include: ampicillin; aspirin; a combined anti-nausea agent (doxylamine succinate, dicyclomine hydrochloride and pyridoxine hydrochloride); chlordiazopoxide, codeine, diazepam, diphenylhydantoin; insulin; phenobarbital; phenothiazine; phenylephrine; and tetracycline.", "PMID": 443241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5989", "title": "Childhood cultural experience and the incidence of coronary heart disease in Hawaii Japanese men.", "content": "Possible effects of cultural variables on the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) were examined in 7705 men of Japanese ancestry living in Hawaii. The six-year incidence of CHD was related to birthplace (Japan or elsewhere), number of years spent in Japan, ability to read and write Japanese, ability to speak Japanese, and to an index of preference for a traditional Japanese diet. Statistically significant inverse relationships were found between CHD incidence and all of these variables which reflect the degree of exposure to Japanese culture during childhood. In multivariate analyses where the major CHD risk factors were taken into account, years spent in Japan and ability to read and write Japanese remained significant. Hence, exposure to Japanese culture during childhood appears to protect against CHD in adulthood. This may explain, in part, the gradient of CHD frequency among Japanese in Japan, Japanese-Americans, and Caucasians that could not be entirely attributed to the established risk factors.", "contents": "Childhood cultural experience and the incidence of coronary heart disease in Hawaii Japanese men. Possible effects of cultural variables on the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) were examined in 7705 men of Japanese ancestry living in Hawaii. The six-year incidence of CHD was related to birthplace (Japan or elsewhere), number of years spent in Japan, ability to read and write Japanese, ability to speak Japanese, and to an index of preference for a traditional Japanese diet. Statistically significant inverse relationships were found between CHD incidence and all of these variables which reflect the degree of exposure to Japanese culture during childhood. In multivariate analyses where the major CHD risk factors were taken into account, years spent in Japan and ability to read and write Japanese remained significant. Hence, exposure to Japanese culture during childhood appears to protect against CHD in adulthood. This may explain, in part, the gradient of CHD frequency among Japanese in Japan, Japanese-Americans, and Caucasians that could not be entirely attributed to the established risk factors.", "PMID": 443242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5990", "title": "Premature mortality attributable to smoking and hazardous drinking in Canada.", "content": "All causes of death related to the two risk factors, smoking and hazardous drinking, have been reviewed followed by a selection of those causes of death for which the causal role of the risk factor appears to be quasi-certain. For each cause, existing epidemiologic data were reviewed and used to determine the fraction of premature mortality which could be attributed to each factor (called the attributable fraction). This fraction was then multiplied by the corresponding Canadian premature mortality measured in terms of deaths between ages one and 70 and potential years of life lost (PYLL) between ages one and 70, which gives a higher weight to younger deaths. Of the 73,440 deaths between ages one and 70 in Canada in 1974, 12% (or 8718 deaths) were found to be attributable to current smoking and 6% (4716) to hazardous drinking. In terms of PYLL between ages one and 70, hazardous drinking ranks ahead of current smoking with 10% (or 132,044 PYLL) of the total PYLL, whereas current smoking represents 8% (105,085 PYLL) of the total . Regardless of whether premature mortality is expressed in terms of deaths or PYLL, about 18% of Canadian premature mortality is attributable to current smoking and/or drinking (with the range of possible values being 14-22%).", "contents": "Premature mortality attributable to smoking and hazardous drinking in Canada. All causes of death related to the two risk factors, smoking and hazardous drinking, have been reviewed followed by a selection of those causes of death for which the causal role of the risk factor appears to be quasi-certain. For each cause, existing epidemiologic data were reviewed and used to determine the fraction of premature mortality which could be attributed to each factor (called the attributable fraction). This fraction was then multiplied by the corresponding Canadian premature mortality measured in terms of deaths between ages one and 70 and potential years of life lost (PYLL) between ages one and 70, which gives a higher weight to younger deaths. Of the 73,440 deaths between ages one and 70 in Canada in 1974, 12% (or 8718 deaths) were found to be attributable to current smoking and 6% (4716) to hazardous drinking. In terms of PYLL between ages one and 70, hazardous drinking ranks ahead of current smoking with 10% (or 132,044 PYLL) of the total PYLL, whereas current smoking represents 8% (105,085 PYLL) of the total . Regardless of whether premature mortality is expressed in terms of deaths or PYLL, about 18% of Canadian premature mortality is attributable to current smoking and/or drinking (with the range of possible values being 14-22%).", "PMID": 443243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5991", "title": "Influenza A and B virus infection in infants and young children during the years 1957-1976.", "content": "Influenza A virus activity was demonstrated in infants and young children from metropolitan Washington, DC during each of 19 successive August-July respiratory disease years, and during 17 of these years at least 2% of hospitalized respiratory disease patients yielded an influenza A or B virus and/or showed an influenza A or B serum complement-fixing (CF) antibody response. Between October 1957 and July 1976, 14.3% of 860 croup patients and 5.3% of a total of 5655 hospitalized respiratory patients, including croup patients, showed evidence of influenza A or B infection. The mean period of hospitalization with either virus was about 8 days, though serious infection with influenza A virus was 4.5 times more common than with influenza B virus. Both influenza viruses were detected more frequently in respiratory disease outpatients than in respiratory disease inpatients. Patients with serious influenza A virus infections were especially likely to have croup (particularly during the H3N2 era), to be seen during December through February, and to be black male infants. During the peak month of a composite of 13 consecutive influenza A virus outbreaks, influenza A virus infection was demonstrated in 67.6% of croup patients and in 35.6% of all hospitalized respiratory patients including croup patients. During the peak month of a composite of 6 consecutive influenza B virus outbreaks, influenza B virus infection was demonstrated in 36.0% of croup patients and in 10.8% of all hospitalized respiratory disease patients including croup patients.", "contents": "Influenza A and B virus infection in infants and young children during the years 1957-1976. Influenza A virus activity was demonstrated in infants and young children from metropolitan Washington, DC during each of 19 successive August-July respiratory disease years, and during 17 of these years at least 2% of hospitalized respiratory disease patients yielded an influenza A or B virus and/or showed an influenza A or B serum complement-fixing (CF) antibody response. Between October 1957 and July 1976, 14.3% of 860 croup patients and 5.3% of a total of 5655 hospitalized respiratory patients, including croup patients, showed evidence of influenza A or B infection. The mean period of hospitalization with either virus was about 8 days, though serious infection with influenza A virus was 4.5 times more common than with influenza B virus. Both influenza viruses were detected more frequently in respiratory disease outpatients than in respiratory disease inpatients. Patients with serious influenza A virus infections were especially likely to have croup (particularly during the H3N2 era), to be seen during December through February, and to be black male infants. During the peak month of a composite of 13 consecutive influenza A virus outbreaks, influenza A virus infection was demonstrated in 67.6% of croup patients and in 35.6% of all hospitalized respiratory patients including croup patients. During the peak month of a composite of 6 consecutive influenza B virus outbreaks, influenza B virus infection was demonstrated in 36.0% of croup patients and in 10.8% of all hospitalized respiratory disease patients including croup patients.", "PMID": 443244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5992", "title": "Histoplasmosis in South Carolina: support for the microfocus concept.", "content": "An outbreak of anthropurgic histoplasmosis occurred in rural South Carolina when a canebrake which served as a blackbird roost was cleared with a bulldozer. Seven days later the index patient became ill with histoplasmosis. Nine other patients contracted the disease, but only the index case was fatal. Serologic studies on the 10 patients demonstrated high titers in the histoplasmin latex agglutination test within two to three weeks after exposure. Serologic titers to the yeast-form Histoplasma capsulatum antigen in the complement fixation test appeared most frequently, but these antibodies were not diagnostic because complement-fixing antibodies to Blastomyces dermatitidis appeared at the same time. Soil studies demonstrated that viable particles of H. capsulatum persisted at declining levels over a nine-year period. A skin test survey showed that 27.3% of eighth grade students who resided within a 20 km radius of the contaminated site and who were lifelong residents of the same dwelling had a positive histoplasmin skin test.", "contents": "Histoplasmosis in South Carolina: support for the microfocus concept. An outbreak of anthropurgic histoplasmosis occurred in rural South Carolina when a canebrake which served as a blackbird roost was cleared with a bulldozer. Seven days later the index patient became ill with histoplasmosis. Nine other patients contracted the disease, but only the index case was fatal. Serologic studies on the 10 patients demonstrated high titers in the histoplasmin latex agglutination test within two to three weeks after exposure. Serologic titers to the yeast-form Histoplasma capsulatum antigen in the complement fixation test appeared most frequently, but these antibodies were not diagnostic because complement-fixing antibodies to Blastomyces dermatitidis appeared at the same time. Soil studies demonstrated that viable particles of H. capsulatum persisted at declining levels over a nine-year period. A skin test survey showed that 27.3% of eighth grade students who resided within a 20 km radius of the contaminated site and who were lifelong residents of the same dwelling had a positive histoplasmin skin test.", "PMID": 443245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5993", "title": "Differences in the clinical manifestations of sicca syndrome in the presence and absence of rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "In this restrospective study we review the clinical features of patients with the sicca syndrome in the presence and absence of rheumatoid arthritis. All patients were followed at the National Institutes of Health for at least five years after the diagnosis of sicca syndrome was established. Twenty-two patients had sicca syndrome alone, and 21 patients had definite rheumatoid arthritis and the sicca syndrome. Rheumatoid arthritis tended to precede the developement of sicca syndrome. The mean age at diagnosis of sicca syndrome is the same in both groups. No significant differences in serum innumoglobulins, the third component of complement (C3), rheumatoid factor titer and salivary histopathology were found. However, the clinical features were quite distinct. Patients with sicca syndrome alone had a significantly greater frequency of recurrent parotitis, Raynaud's phenomenon, purpura, lymphadenopathy, myositis and renal involvement. The clinical characteristics of these two groups coupled with the known serologic and genetic differences suggest that sicca syndrome alone is a distinct pathologic entity.", "contents": "Differences in the clinical manifestations of sicca syndrome in the presence and absence of rheumatoid arthritis. In this restrospective study we review the clinical features of patients with the sicca syndrome in the presence and absence of rheumatoid arthritis. All patients were followed at the National Institutes of Health for at least five years after the diagnosis of sicca syndrome was established. Twenty-two patients had sicca syndrome alone, and 21 patients had definite rheumatoid arthritis and the sicca syndrome. Rheumatoid arthritis tended to precede the developement of sicca syndrome. The mean age at diagnosis of sicca syndrome is the same in both groups. No significant differences in serum innumoglobulins, the third component of complement (C3), rheumatoid factor titer and salivary histopathology were found. However, the clinical features were quite distinct. Patients with sicca syndrome alone had a significantly greater frequency of recurrent parotitis, Raynaud's phenomenon, purpura, lymphadenopathy, myositis and renal involvement. The clinical characteristics of these two groups coupled with the known serologic and genetic differences suggest that sicca syndrome alone is a distinct pathologic entity.", "PMID": 443249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5994", "title": "Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome. Pulmonary manifestations of a ceroid storage disorder.", "content": "The Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome is a form of oculocutaneous albinism, characterized by a qualitative platelet defect and deposition of ceroid-like material throughout the reticuloendothelial system. During a 16 month period five patients with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome presented with symptoms, chest films and pulmonary function studies consistent with restrictive pulmonary disease. In two patients, lung biopsies revealed diffuse interstitial fibrosis. However, light and electron microscopy demonstrated ceroid-like material within alveolar macrophages. In addition, two patients presented with inflammatory bowel disease with deposition of ceroid-like material in the colon. This disorder appears to be more common than is currently recognized and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diffuse interstitial pulmonary disease and inflammatory bowel disease. A relationship between the deposition of ceroid-like material and pulmonary fibrosis is discussed in light of recent research concerning inflammatory processes. In view of the serious pulmonary, gastrointestinal and hematologic consequences of this syndrome, there is a need for genetic counseling of these patients.", "contents": "Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome. Pulmonary manifestations of a ceroid storage disorder. The Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome is a form of oculocutaneous albinism, characterized by a qualitative platelet defect and deposition of ceroid-like material throughout the reticuloendothelial system. During a 16 month period five patients with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome presented with symptoms, chest films and pulmonary function studies consistent with restrictive pulmonary disease. In two patients, lung biopsies revealed diffuse interstitial fibrosis. However, light and electron microscopy demonstrated ceroid-like material within alveolar macrophages. In addition, two patients presented with inflammatory bowel disease with deposition of ceroid-like material in the colon. This disorder appears to be more common than is currently recognized and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diffuse interstitial pulmonary disease and inflammatory bowel disease. A relationship between the deposition of ceroid-like material and pulmonary fibrosis is discussed in light of recent research concerning inflammatory processes. In view of the serious pulmonary, gastrointestinal and hematologic consequences of this syndrome, there is a need for genetic counseling of these patients.", "PMID": 443250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5995", "title": "In vitro leukocyte thymidine uptake and prognosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia.", "content": "Among 60 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, higher in vitro uptake of tritiated (3H) thymidine by leukocytes of a standard volume of peripheral blood was associated with a higher lymphocyte count, a more advanced stage, greater frequency of functional impairment and shorter survival. Appropriate analyses demonstrated that leukocyte thymidine uptake correlated with survival independently of these other disease features. Relative thymidine uptake (radioactivity per 10(3) lymphocytes) did not prove to be a useful prognostic parameter. Among 33 patients not receiving antileukemic therapy at the time of study, 15 of 17 (88 per cent) of those with higher thymidine uptake values, but only 3 of 16 (19 per cent) of those with lower values, were treated during a median follow-up period of four and a half years (p less than 0.001). Seven of the former group, but none of the latter group, died during the first three years of follow-up (p less than 0.01). We conclude that thymidine uptake by circulating leukocytes constitutes a relatively accurate index of the proliferating leukemic cell mass in this disease and provides useful prognostic information.", "contents": "In vitro leukocyte thymidine uptake and prognosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Among 60 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, higher in vitro uptake of tritiated (3H) thymidine by leukocytes of a standard volume of peripheral blood was associated with a higher lymphocyte count, a more advanced stage, greater frequency of functional impairment and shorter survival. Appropriate analyses demonstrated that leukocyte thymidine uptake correlated with survival independently of these other disease features. Relative thymidine uptake (radioactivity per 10(3) lymphocytes) did not prove to be a useful prognostic parameter. Among 33 patients not receiving antileukemic therapy at the time of study, 15 of 17 (88 per cent) of those with higher thymidine uptake values, but only 3 of 16 (19 per cent) of those with lower values, were treated during a median follow-up period of four and a half years (p less than 0.001). Seven of the former group, but none of the latter group, died during the first three years of follow-up (p less than 0.01). We conclude that thymidine uptake by circulating leukocytes constitutes a relatively accurate index of the proliferating leukemic cell mass in this disease and provides useful prognostic information.", "PMID": 443252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5996", "title": "Spatial reconstruction of human femoral atheromas showing regression.", "content": "Reports of atherosclerotic changes in human subjects previously described have been based on evaluation of arteriographic edge contours. They imply unchanged roentgenographic and physiologic conditions, including identical patient positioning and vascular tone which cannot always be obtained in sequential studies. We have previously described the development of quantitative angiographic densitometry which permits measurement of vascular cross-sectional chord length distributions and areas, independent of rotational changes in vascular position. In this paper we report on application of the method to sequential femoral angiograms in two patients in whom there were significant increases in vascular cross-sectional area after a program of exercise and risk reduction. The method excludes interpretive errors due to circumferential changes in vascular tone.", "contents": "Spatial reconstruction of human femoral atheromas showing regression. Reports of atherosclerotic changes in human subjects previously described have been based on evaluation of arteriographic edge contours. They imply unchanged roentgenographic and physiologic conditions, including identical patient positioning and vascular tone which cannot always be obtained in sequential studies. We have previously described the development of quantitative angiographic densitometry which permits measurement of vascular cross-sectional chord length distributions and areas, independent of rotational changes in vascular position. In this paper we report on application of the method to sequential femoral angiograms in two patients in whom there were significant increases in vascular cross-sectional area after a program of exercise and risk reduction. The method excludes interpretive errors due to circumferential changes in vascular tone.", "PMID": 443253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5997", "title": "Plasma levels and hepatic extraction of renin and aldosterone in alcoholic liver disease.", "content": "Arterial plasma levels and hepatic extraction of renin and aldosterone (ALDO) were measured in 24 patients with alcoholic liver disease and in 14 normal subjects being evaluated as prospective kidney donors. Patients with liver disease had higher plasma concentrations and lower fractional hepatic extractions of both renin and ALDO than the normal subjects. The quantity of renin extracted by the liver was highly correlated with plasma renin in both normal subjects and patients. Plasma ALDO concentration was positively correlated with plasma renin (p less than 0.001) but not with serum sodium, potassium or albumin concentration, inferior vena cava pressure, corrected hepatic venous wedge pressure, plasma volume or sulfobromophthalein storage or transport. Sixteen patients were restudied after one month. Six had received 40 mg/day of prednisolone, and the remaining 10 had received a placebo. Neither group had a change in plasma volume, corrected hepatic venous wedge pressure, plasma concentration or hepatic extraction of renin or ALDO. Serum albumin concentration increased and inferior vena cava pressure decreased with prednisolone therapy. These studies document high plasma levels and impaired hepatic extraction of renin and ALDO in patients with liver disease that are not corrected by short-term prednisolone therapy.", "contents": "Plasma levels and hepatic extraction of renin and aldosterone in alcoholic liver disease. Arterial plasma levels and hepatic extraction of renin and aldosterone (ALDO) were measured in 24 patients with alcoholic liver disease and in 14 normal subjects being evaluated as prospective kidney donors. Patients with liver disease had higher plasma concentrations and lower fractional hepatic extractions of both renin and ALDO than the normal subjects. The quantity of renin extracted by the liver was highly correlated with plasma renin in both normal subjects and patients. Plasma ALDO concentration was positively correlated with plasma renin (p less than 0.001) but not with serum sodium, potassium or albumin concentration, inferior vena cava pressure, corrected hepatic venous wedge pressure, plasma volume or sulfobromophthalein storage or transport. Sixteen patients were restudied after one month. Six had received 40 mg/day of prednisolone, and the remaining 10 had received a placebo. Neither group had a change in plasma volume, corrected hepatic venous wedge pressure, plasma concentration or hepatic extraction of renin or ALDO. Serum albumin concentration increased and inferior vena cava pressure decreased with prednisolone therapy. These studies document high plasma levels and impaired hepatic extraction of renin and ALDO in patients with liver disease that are not corrected by short-term prednisolone therapy.", "PMID": 443256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5998", "title": "Multiple floppy valves: an echocardiographic syndrome.", "content": "Echocardiograms of 400 patients with mitral valve prolapse examined at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital between 1974 and 1977 were reviewed. Eleven patients (3 per cent) were found to have prolapse (10 patients) or large excursion of the tricuspid valve (one patient) and large excursion of the aotric valve (four patients) or dilatation of the aotric root (seven patients) in addition to mitral valve prolapse. Two of these 11 patients underwent mitral valve replacement, and myxomatous degeneration of the valves was noted on pathologic examination. Almost half of the patients with multiple floppy valves (five of 11) had symptoms of congestive heart failure. In contrast to reported series of isolated mitral valve prolapse, in which female preponderance has been documented, 10 of the 11 patients were male. The syndrome of multiple floppy valves may represent either a unique entity or a more advanced form of the same process which underlies mitral valve prolapse.", "contents": "Multiple floppy valves: an echocardiographic syndrome. Echocardiograms of 400 patients with mitral valve prolapse examined at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital between 1974 and 1977 were reviewed. Eleven patients (3 per cent) were found to have prolapse (10 patients) or large excursion of the tricuspid valve (one patient) and large excursion of the aotric valve (four patients) or dilatation of the aotric root (seven patients) in addition to mitral valve prolapse. Two of these 11 patients underwent mitral valve replacement, and myxomatous degeneration of the valves was noted on pathologic examination. Almost half of the patients with multiple floppy valves (five of 11) had symptoms of congestive heart failure. In contrast to reported series of isolated mitral valve prolapse, in which female preponderance has been documented, 10 of the 11 patients were male. The syndrome of multiple floppy valves may represent either a unique entity or a more advanced form of the same process which underlies mitral valve prolapse.", "PMID": 443257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_5999", "title": "Clinical use of a calcium antagonistic agent (nifedipine) in acute pulmonary edema.", "content": "Nifedipine induces vascular smooth muscle relaxation through a calcium antagonistic action. The possibility of clinical use of the drug as a ventricular unloading agent has been explored in this study. In patients with hypertensive (seven cases), primary (seven cases) or rheumatic (aortic insufficiency five cases, mitral regurgitation five cases) cardiac disease, nifedipine, administered in a single sublingual dose (10 mg), relieved acute pulmonary edema. Circulatory variations from control were the following: decrease of systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures, and of vascular resistances, of pulmonary wedge pressure, of left ventricular diastolic and systolic dimensions (echocardiography); increase of cardiac and stroke index, of left ventricular mean rate of circumferential fiber shortening, of left and right mean pre-ejection delta P/delta t and mean rate of ejection; improvement of forward output in primary and rheumatic disease. Nifedipine benefits acute congestive heart failure by sustained fall of both preload and afterload and, possibly, by an enhanced contractility. It seems to have an appropriate indication in cases in which left ventricular afterload reduction is desirable.", "contents": "Clinical use of a calcium antagonistic agent (nifedipine) in acute pulmonary edema. Nifedipine induces vascular smooth muscle relaxation through a calcium antagonistic action. The possibility of clinical use of the drug as a ventricular unloading agent has been explored in this study. In patients with hypertensive (seven cases), primary (seven cases) or rheumatic (aortic insufficiency five cases, mitral regurgitation five cases) cardiac disease, nifedipine, administered in a single sublingual dose (10 mg), relieved acute pulmonary edema. Circulatory variations from control were the following: decrease of systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures, and of vascular resistances, of pulmonary wedge pressure, of left ventricular diastolic and systolic dimensions (echocardiography); increase of cardiac and stroke index, of left ventricular mean rate of circumferential fiber shortening, of left and right mean pre-ejection delta P/delta t and mean rate of ejection; improvement of forward output in primary and rheumatic disease. Nifedipine benefits acute congestive heart failure by sustained fall of both preload and afterload and, possibly, by an enhanced contractility. It seems to have an appropriate indication in cases in which left ventricular afterload reduction is desirable.", "PMID": 443258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6000", "title": "Acquired agranulocytosis with granulocyte specific cytotoxic autoantibody.", "content": "Multiple infections and severe neutropenia were found in a previously healthy 29 year old man with no history of similar syndromes in the family, drug ingestion or exposure to environmental toxins. There was no evidence at the time of presentation of diseases previously associated with agranulocytosis (e.g., neoplasia, thyrotoxicosis, chronic infection, collagen-vascular disease or leukoagglutinating antibody). His serum contained a nonagglutinating, complement-dependent, cytotoxic antibody, however, reactive with peripheral blood granulocytes from 35 per cent of normal donors. The neutropenia was not affected by steroids but resolved promptly after splenectomy. Microscopic examination of the spleen revealed ingestion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes by splenic macrophages. Family studies indicated that the target antigen was non-HLA and that the antibody was not absorbed by lymphocytes or platelets. We conclude that the agranulocytosis was autoimmune in origin and suggest that similar myeloid-specific immune responses could influence granulocyte tranfusion and bone marrow transplantation by alloimmune \"rejection\" that would not be avoided by matching only for HLA specificities.", "contents": "Acquired agranulocytosis with granulocyte specific cytotoxic autoantibody. Multiple infections and severe neutropenia were found in a previously healthy 29 year old man with no history of similar syndromes in the family, drug ingestion or exposure to environmental toxins. There was no evidence at the time of presentation of diseases previously associated with agranulocytosis (e.g., neoplasia, thyrotoxicosis, chronic infection, collagen-vascular disease or leukoagglutinating antibody). His serum contained a nonagglutinating, complement-dependent, cytotoxic antibody, however, reactive with peripheral blood granulocytes from 35 per cent of normal donors. The neutropenia was not affected by steroids but resolved promptly after splenectomy. Microscopic examination of the spleen revealed ingestion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes by splenic macrophages. Family studies indicated that the target antigen was non-HLA and that the antibody was not absorbed by lymphocytes or platelets. We conclude that the agranulocytosis was autoimmune in origin and suggest that similar myeloid-specific immune responses could influence granulocyte tranfusion and bone marrow transplantation by alloimmune \"rejection\" that would not be avoided by matching only for HLA specificities.", "PMID": 443260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6001", "title": "Pulmonary infarction in sickle cell trait.", "content": "A young black man presented with unexplained pleuritic chest pain. A hematologic evaluation revealed sickle cell trait, Chest roentgenograms, ventilation/perfusion lung scanning and a pleural-parenchymal lung biopsy documented pulmonary infarction. Sickle cell trait with resultant pulmonary infarction should be considered in black subjects with unexplained pulmonary diseases.", "contents": "Pulmonary infarction in sickle cell trait. A young black man presented with unexplained pleuritic chest pain. A hematologic evaluation revealed sickle cell trait, Chest roentgenograms, ventilation/perfusion lung scanning and a pleural-parenchymal lung biopsy documented pulmonary infarction. Sickle cell trait with resultant pulmonary infarction should be considered in black subjects with unexplained pulmonary diseases.", "PMID": 443261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6002", "title": "Fibrosing alveolitis and hepatitis B surface antigen-associated chronic active hepatitis in a patient with immunoglobulin A deficiency.", "content": "Fibrosing alveolitis is described in a 22 year old woman with immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-associated chronic active hepatitis. At lung biopsy HBsAg was detected by indirect immunofluorescence in the alveolar space but not in the septal fibrosis. We discuss the possible relationships between IgA deficiency on the one hand, and HBsAg-associated lung and liver diseases on the other hand.", "contents": "Fibrosing alveolitis and hepatitis B surface antigen-associated chronic active hepatitis in a patient with immunoglobulin A deficiency. Fibrosing alveolitis is described in a 22 year old woman with immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-associated chronic active hepatitis. At lung biopsy HBsAg was detected by indirect immunofluorescence in the alveolar space but not in the septal fibrosis. We discuss the possible relationships between IgA deficiency on the one hand, and HBsAg-associated lung and liver diseases on the other hand.", "PMID": 443262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6003", "title": "Multiple adenocarcinomas and premalignant changes in \"backwash\" ileitis.", "content": "In a patient with long-staning ulcerative colitis and \"backwash\" ileitis, multiple carcinomas developed in the colon and ileum. In both locations premalignant mucosal changes of the basal cell proliferation type were seen adjacent to and remote from sites of carcinoma. Although the frequency of such premalignant and malignant changes in \"backwash\" ileitis is unknown, their concurrence in this case suggests that ulcerative colitis involving the terminal ileum increases the risk of small bowel carcinoma.", "contents": "Multiple adenocarcinomas and premalignant changes in \"backwash\" ileitis. In a patient with long-staning ulcerative colitis and \"backwash\" ileitis, multiple carcinomas developed in the colon and ileum. In both locations premalignant mucosal changes of the basal cell proliferation type were seen adjacent to and remote from sites of carcinoma. Although the frequency of such premalignant and malignant changes in \"backwash\" ileitis is unknown, their concurrence in this case suggests that ulcerative colitis involving the terminal ileum increases the risk of small bowel carcinoma.", "PMID": 443263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6004", "title": "Diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and rapidly progressive renal failure. An uncommon presentation of Wegener's granulomatosis.", "content": "A 57 year old woman presented with rapidly progressive renal failure and diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and life-threatening respiratory failure promptly developed; these conditions resolved after bilateral nephrectomy. Renal pathology revealed rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and vasculitis with granular deposition of immunoglobulin on immunofluorescent staining. One year later, multiple nodular cavitating pulmonary infilrates developed, and lung biopsy was diagnostic of Wegener's granulomatosis. Therapy with cyclophosphamide resulted in resolution of the pulmonary lesions. Diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and rapidly developing renal failure mimicking Goodpasture's syndrome was the initial manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis in this patient.", "contents": "Diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and rapidly progressive renal failure. An uncommon presentation of Wegener's granulomatosis. A 57 year old woman presented with rapidly progressive renal failure and diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and life-threatening respiratory failure promptly developed; these conditions resolved after bilateral nephrectomy. Renal pathology revealed rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and vasculitis with granular deposition of immunoglobulin on immunofluorescent staining. One year later, multiple nodular cavitating pulmonary infilrates developed, and lung biopsy was diagnostic of Wegener's granulomatosis. Therapy with cyclophosphamide resulted in resolution of the pulmonary lesions. Diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and rapidly developing renal failure mimicking Goodpasture's syndrome was the initial manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis in this patient.", "PMID": 443264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6005", "title": "Establishing criteria for competency-based education.", "content": "Requisite to the development of competency-based curricula in the medical laboratory sciences is the translation of competency statements into terminal performance objectives so that the achievement of career-entry competence can be measured. To truly represent competence in practice, the conditions and standards of acceptable performance for the objectives must be those expected of career-entry practitioners on their jobs. A method is presented for the establishment of conditions under which the behaviors specified in competency statements are carried out in the \"real world\" of medical laboratory practice and the verification of standards of accuracy and speed in performance that represent competence at career entry. The career-entry practitioner is defined as the graduate of a medical laboratory education program who has been working in the field for six months to one year. The specification of that target group for verification of career-entry competence is explained. The necessity for use of the clinical laboratory for evaluation of career-entry competence of students prior to graduation through acheivement of terminal performance objectives is stressed.", "contents": "Establishing criteria for competency-based education. Requisite to the development of competency-based curricula in the medical laboratory sciences is the translation of competency statements into terminal performance objectives so that the achievement of career-entry competence can be measured. To truly represent competence in practice, the conditions and standards of acceptable performance for the objectives must be those expected of career-entry practitioners on their jobs. A method is presented for the establishment of conditions under which the behaviors specified in competency statements are carried out in the \"real world\" of medical laboratory practice and the verification of standards of accuracy and speed in performance that represent competence at career entry. The career-entry practitioner is defined as the graduate of a medical laboratory education program who has been working in the field for six months to one year. The specification of that target group for verification of career-entry competence is explained. The necessity for use of the clinical laboratory for evaluation of career-entry competence of students prior to graduation through acheivement of terminal performance objectives is stressed.", "PMID": 443266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6006", "title": "Leak detection and low level monitoring of halogenated anesthetics.", "content": "Halogenated compounds used in anesthetics are generally detected and monitored by gas chromatography or infrared analysis. For a quick, reliable, and economical method of detecting these compounds, the HLD-440 leak detector proved to be effective. The instrument is simple to calibrate and operate. It is safe and is capable of detecting halogenated anesthetics in concentrations at least as low as 2 parts per million.", "contents": "Leak detection and low level monitoring of halogenated anesthetics. Halogenated compounds used in anesthetics are generally detected and monitored by gas chromatography or infrared analysis. For a quick, reliable, and economical method of detecting these compounds, the HLD-440 leak detector proved to be effective. The instrument is simple to calibrate and operate. It is safe and is capable of detecting halogenated anesthetics in concentrations at least as low as 2 parts per million.", "PMID": 443267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6007", "title": "Cognitive modifiability in retarded adolescents: effects of instrumental enrichment.", "content": "The Instrumental Enrichment program, designed to modify the cognitive structures of retarded, disadvantaged adolescents, was contrasted with a General Enrichment program both in a residential setting and a day center. This study is based on 57 matched pairs drawn from the total research sample of 218 adolescents. One group in a residential center (n = 24) and one group in a day center (n = 33) received Instrumental Enrichment; one group in a residential center (n = 24) and one group in a day center (n = 33) received General Enrichment. The Instrumental Enrichment program extended over 2 years, and the subjects were pre- and posttested on a battery of criterion measures: general and specific cognitive tests, scholastic achievement, classroom interaction, and self-concept. The results indicated significantly better performance by the groups receiving Instrumental Enrichment than by the groups receiving General Enrichment on the tests of specific cognitive functions and scholastic achievement and on some of the classroom interaction scales. Results for the residential groups compared with the day-center groups revealed significant differences on the tests of scholastic achievement, in favor of the residential groups and on the classroom interaction scales in favor of the day-center groups.", "contents": "Cognitive modifiability in retarded adolescents: effects of instrumental enrichment. The Instrumental Enrichment program, designed to modify the cognitive structures of retarded, disadvantaged adolescents, was contrasted with a General Enrichment program both in a residential setting and a day center. This study is based on 57 matched pairs drawn from the total research sample of 218 adolescents. One group in a residential center (n = 24) and one group in a day center (n = 33) received Instrumental Enrichment; one group in a residential center (n = 24) and one group in a day center (n = 33) received General Enrichment. The Instrumental Enrichment program extended over 2 years, and the subjects were pre- and posttested on a battery of criterion measures: general and specific cognitive tests, scholastic achievement, classroom interaction, and self-concept. The results indicated significantly better performance by the groups receiving Instrumental Enrichment than by the groups receiving General Enrichment on the tests of specific cognitive functions and scholastic achievement and on some of the classroom interaction scales. Results for the residential groups compared with the day-center groups revealed significant differences on the tests of scholastic achievement, in favor of the residential groups and on the classroom interaction scales in favor of the day-center groups.", "PMID": 443268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6008", "title": "Hierarchical assessment of social competence.", "content": "Three properties associated with the Test of the Hierarchy of INductive Knowledge (THINK) were examined, namely, that the processes assessed by the measure are (a) cumulative and hierarchical, (b) developmental, and (c) related to behavioral criteria. Analyses of data collected from 120 EMR children between the ages of 9 and 14 years generally support the developmental and criterion-related features of the measure, but only partially confirm the hierarchical component. Discussion of the results was focused on the emphasis necessary in subsequent empirical work and the measure's potential for instructional applications in relation to current assessment issues in special education.", "contents": "Hierarchical assessment of social competence. Three properties associated with the Test of the Hierarchy of INductive Knowledge (THINK) were examined, namely, that the processes assessed by the measure are (a) cumulative and hierarchical, (b) developmental, and (c) related to behavioral criteria. Analyses of data collected from 120 EMR children between the ages of 9 and 14 years generally support the developmental and criterion-related features of the measure, but only partially confirm the hierarchical component. Discussion of the results was focused on the emphasis necessary in subsequent empirical work and the measure's potential for instructional applications in relation to current assessment issues in special education.", "PMID": 443269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6009", "title": "Measuring the use of a principle by retarded adolescents and nonretarded children on a Redundancy Series Test.", "content": "A series test composed of geometric figures placed in redundant patterns was designed to measure the ability of retarded adolescents to use of principle. It was administered to institutionalized and noninstitutionalized retarded adolescents and to nonretarded children from nursery school through fourth grade. Results revealed that four of the items accounted for most of the errors and that these four critical items were particularly sensitive to an inadequate scanning strategy. The retarded groups showed a mental age lag at least 1 year, 6 months and did not perform above chance on the critical items.", "contents": "Measuring the use of a principle by retarded adolescents and nonretarded children on a Redundancy Series Test. A series test composed of geometric figures placed in redundant patterns was designed to measure the ability of retarded adolescents to use of principle. It was administered to institutionalized and noninstitutionalized retarded adolescents and to nonretarded children from nursery school through fourth grade. Results revealed that four of the items accounted for most of the errors and that these four critical items were particularly sensitive to an inadequate scanning strategy. The retarded groups showed a mental age lag at least 1 year, 6 months and did not perform above chance on the critical items.", "PMID": 443270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6010", "title": "Gaze patterns of mentally retarded adults in two contrasting environments.", "content": "Two matched samples of mentally retarded adults were video recorded on two occasions, before and after one group was transferred to a different type of hospital, and their gaze patterns analyzed. Overall, only slight changes after transfer were found, but analysis according to amount of looking at the interviewer on the first occasion showed that those transferred subjects who initially looked little of the time significantly increased their amount of looking after transfer. Some correlations with the Adaptive Behavior Scale were also reported.", "contents": "Gaze patterns of mentally retarded adults in two contrasting environments. Two matched samples of mentally retarded adults were video recorded on two occasions, before and after one group was transferred to a different type of hospital, and their gaze patterns analyzed. Overall, only slight changes after transfer were found, but analysis according to amount of looking at the interviewer on the first occasion showed that those transferred subjects who initially looked little of the time significantly increased their amount of looking after transfer. Some correlations with the Adaptive Behavior Scale were also reported.", "PMID": 443271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6011", "title": "Speed of retrieving information from the lexicon of mentally retarded adolescents.", "content": "Thirty-six institutionalized retarded adolescents named 48 colored pictures of objects. Winters, Winter, and Burger (1978) had previously established that for nonretarded adults the estimated age-of-acquisition of the names of these 48 objects ranged from 2 years, 6 months to 7 years of age. We found that pictures whose names had been estimated by nonretarded adults to have been acquired earlier were named more accurately and faster by retarded adolescents than were pictures whose names were estimated to have been acquired later. The implications of these results were discussed.", "contents": "Speed of retrieving information from the lexicon of mentally retarded adolescents. Thirty-six institutionalized retarded adolescents named 48 colored pictures of objects. Winters, Winter, and Burger (1978) had previously established that for nonretarded adults the estimated age-of-acquisition of the names of these 48 objects ranged from 2 years, 6 months to 7 years of age. We found that pictures whose names had been estimated by nonretarded adults to have been acquired earlier were named more accurately and faster by retarded adolescents than were pictures whose names were estimated to have been acquired later. The implications of these results were discussed.", "PMID": 443272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6012", "title": "Affiliation and friendship of mentally retarded residents in group homes.", "content": "The social behavior of 208 mentally retarded residents in 18 group homes was observed and analyzed in terms of their (a) informal grouping behavior, (b) affiliation, and (c) intense social relationships (\"friendships\"). Moderately to mildly retarded residents engaged in \"social\" types of behavior in groups (primarily dyads) and \"neutral\" types of behavior when alone. In contrast, profoundly retarded residents did not behave differently when others were present, although they did display social types of behavior. Residents' affiliative behavior was not as related to personal characteristics (sex and intelligence) as it was to (a) size of the group home, (b) average intelligence of the residents in the home, (c) sex ratio in the home, and (d) homogeneity of the residents' backgrounds. Although residents in large homes affiliated more extensively with others, intense relationships were as likely in large as in small homes. Sixteen intense friendships were identified and described. In total, the results support the view that the group home environment can influence residents' affiliation and friendship.", "contents": "Affiliation and friendship of mentally retarded residents in group homes. The social behavior of 208 mentally retarded residents in 18 group homes was observed and analyzed in terms of their (a) informal grouping behavior, (b) affiliation, and (c) intense social relationships (\"friendships\"). Moderately to mildly retarded residents engaged in \"social\" types of behavior in groups (primarily dyads) and \"neutral\" types of behavior when alone. In contrast, profoundly retarded residents did not behave differently when others were present, although they did display social types of behavior. Residents' affiliative behavior was not as related to personal characteristics (sex and intelligence) as it was to (a) size of the group home, (b) average intelligence of the residents in the home, (c) sex ratio in the home, and (d) homogeneity of the residents' backgrounds. Although residents in large homes affiliated more extensively with others, intense relationships were as likely in large as in small homes. Sixteen intense friendships were identified and described. In total, the results support the view that the group home environment can influence residents' affiliation and friendship.", "PMID": 443273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6013", "title": "Telephone-skills training for retarded adults: group and individual demonstrations with and without verbal instruction.", "content": "Effects of telephone-skills training delivered to institutionalized retarded adults in group and individual demonstrations, both with and without verbal instructions, were examined. The trials effect was significant for four telephone tasks and for the sum of the four tasks. Persons in all conditions, including the practice control condition, significantly improved skill performance. These findings indicate that, for skill development tasks with retarded adults, demonstration and verbal summaries may add little to the practice experience and that group delivery of training procedures appears to be cost-effective.", "contents": "Telephone-skills training for retarded adults: group and individual demonstrations with and without verbal instruction. Effects of telephone-skills training delivered to institutionalized retarded adults in group and individual demonstrations, both with and without verbal instructions, were examined. The trials effect was significant for four telephone tasks and for the sum of the four tasks. Persons in all conditions, including the practice control condition, significantly improved skill performance. These findings indicate that, for skill development tasks with retarded adults, demonstration and verbal summaries may add little to the practice experience and that group delivery of training procedures appears to be cost-effective.", "PMID": 443274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6014", "title": "An analysis of overcorrection movements.", "content": "Overcorrection procedures were designed for three profoundly retarded adults such that the overcorrection activities were topographically dissimilar to (i.e., did not physically prevent) the stereotyped behavior targeted for treatment. Using reversal designs, we recorded data on both the target behavior and the behavior used as the overcorrection responses. Results showed that overcorrection was effective in reducing the stereotyped behavior for each subject; however, the rates of the overcorrection responses either remained variable or decreased during the treatment phases. These findings suggest that although overcorrection is a valuable technique in reducing behavior, the overcorrection responses (e.g., restitutional acts, positive practice, functional movement training) may not increase in the absence of specific reinforcement contingencies. The importance of utilizing differential reinforcement procedures, especially with mentally retarded persons, in conjunction with ocercorrection was discussed.", "contents": "An analysis of overcorrection movements. Overcorrection procedures were designed for three profoundly retarded adults such that the overcorrection activities were topographically dissimilar to (i.e., did not physically prevent) the stereotyped behavior targeted for treatment. Using reversal designs, we recorded data on both the target behavior and the behavior used as the overcorrection responses. Results showed that overcorrection was effective in reducing the stereotyped behavior for each subject; however, the rates of the overcorrection responses either remained variable or decreased during the treatment phases. These findings suggest that although overcorrection is a valuable technique in reducing behavior, the overcorrection responses (e.g., restitutional acts, positive practice, functional movement training) may not increase in the absence of specific reinforcement contingencies. The importance of utilizing differential reinforcement procedures, especially with mentally retarded persons, in conjunction with ocercorrection was discussed.", "PMID": 443275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6015", "title": "Accumulation of and release from proactive inhibition in short-term memory by retarded and nonretarded persons.", "content": "One group of EMR adolescents and adults and three groups of nonretarded children and adolescents were compared during accumulation of and release from proactive inhibition. All groups demonstrated the effects of and release from proactive inhibition. Analyses of intralist intrusions indicated that these errors did not differentially affect performance by any group during the accumulation of proactive inhibition and did not occur during its release. These results were discussed in terms of the groups' discrimination abilities within and between taxonomies, short-term memory limitations, and the utilization of categorical information on this task by the mentally retarded subjects.", "contents": "Accumulation of and release from proactive inhibition in short-term memory by retarded and nonretarded persons. One group of EMR adolescents and adults and three groups of nonretarded children and adolescents were compared during accumulation of and release from proactive inhibition. All groups demonstrated the effects of and release from proactive inhibition. Analyses of intralist intrusions indicated that these errors did not differentially affect performance by any group during the accumulation of proactive inhibition and did not occur during its release. These results were discussed in terms of the groups' discrimination abilities within and between taxonomies, short-term memory limitations, and the utilization of categorical information on this task by the mentally retarded subjects.", "PMID": 443276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6016", "title": "Movement coding and memory in retarded children.", "content": "Three experiments on the coding and retention of movement-generated information were performed on two groups of mildly retarded children varying in MA. The cue to be reproduced in each case was the terminal position of the limb that studies with adults have shown to require central processing activity for maintained performance. In Experiment 1, although the older MA group was superior, both groups showed similar decrements in performance over a 15-second retention interval. In Experiment 2 the procedures were adopted in an attempt to overcome performance deficits. Subjects were allowed to choose (preselect) their own movements voluntarily in addition to performing constrained, experimenter-defined movements. Preselected reproduction was superior to constrained at all three retention intervals (0, 7, and 15 seconds) but was not statistically different among age groups. Also, performance was maintained for both groups over 7 seconds but deteriorated over 15 seconds. These results were replicated in Experiment 3, which also showed that an interpolated motor task designed to block rehearsal processes interfered with reproduction at the 7- and 15-second retention-interval conditions. The findings indicated that mildly retarded children could maintain motor information over brief time periods and also illustrated the important contribution of the planning component in facilitating the coding of motoric information.", "contents": "Movement coding and memory in retarded children. Three experiments on the coding and retention of movement-generated information were performed on two groups of mildly retarded children varying in MA. The cue to be reproduced in each case was the terminal position of the limb that studies with adults have shown to require central processing activity for maintained performance. In Experiment 1, although the older MA group was superior, both groups showed similar decrements in performance over a 15-second retention interval. In Experiment 2 the procedures were adopted in an attempt to overcome performance deficits. Subjects were allowed to choose (preselect) their own movements voluntarily in addition to performing constrained, experimenter-defined movements. Preselected reproduction was superior to constrained at all three retention intervals (0, 7, and 15 seconds) but was not statistically different among age groups. Also, performance was maintained for both groups over 7 seconds but deteriorated over 15 seconds. These results were replicated in Experiment 3, which also showed that an interpolated motor task designed to block rehearsal processes interfered with reproduction at the 7- and 15-second retention-interval conditions. The findings indicated that mildly retarded children could maintain motor information over brief time periods and also illustrated the important contribution of the planning component in facilitating the coding of motoric information.", "PMID": 443277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6017", "title": "Digit span estimation and the effects of explicit strategy training on recall of EMR individuals.", "content": "Accuracy of digit span estimation by EMR subjects at two different MA levels, 8 and 11, was assessed. The effects of explicit strategy training, generalized instruction, and no training on recall performance and apportionment of study time were compared. The older group was more realistic in their digit span estimation than was the younger group. Explicit strategy training facilitated digit recall and evoked longer study times than did the other conditions.", "contents": "Digit span estimation and the effects of explicit strategy training on recall of EMR individuals. Accuracy of digit span estimation by EMR subjects at two different MA levels, 8 and 11, was assessed. The effects of explicit strategy training, generalized instruction, and no training on recall performance and apportionment of study time were compared. The older group was more realistic in their digit span estimation than was the younger group. Explicit strategy training facilitated digit recall and evoked longer study times than did the other conditions.", "PMID": 443278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6018", "title": "Correlates of social competence in retarded children.", "content": "The relationship of role-taking and referential-communication skills with social competence was assessed in 32 retarded children (mean IQ = 56.4; mean CA = 13 years, 7 months). Significant associations were found between two types of teacher measures of children's social competence, between measures made by teachers and children themselves, and among scores of social competence and the skills of role-taking and referential communication. The findings suggest ways of assessing social adaptation more directly, which may be extended into specific interventions.", "contents": "Correlates of social competence in retarded children. The relationship of role-taking and referential-communication skills with social competence was assessed in 32 retarded children (mean IQ = 56.4; mean CA = 13 years, 7 months). Significant associations were found between two types of teacher measures of children's social competence, between measures made by teachers and children themselves, and among scores of social competence and the skills of role-taking and referential communication. The findings suggest ways of assessing social adaptation more directly, which may be extended into specific interventions.", "PMID": 443279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6019", "title": "Cardiac change of retarded and nonretarded infants to an auditory signal.", "content": "Five mentally retarded infants and 5 nonretarded infants were presented a tone for 15 trials. Heart-rate change from prestimulus level showed a deceleration on four 1-second intervals for the nonretarded babies and no change for the retarded babies. Comparison of the two groups of infants revealed a difference on five of the 1-second intervals following stimulus onset. When the total heart-rate change scores were examined for each baby, no overlap of the scores was evident for the infants in the nonretarded group with the individual scores of the retarded infants.", "contents": "Cardiac change of retarded and nonretarded infants to an auditory signal. Five mentally retarded infants and 5 nonretarded infants were presented a tone for 15 trials. Heart-rate change from prestimulus level showed a deceleration on four 1-second intervals for the nonretarded babies and no change for the retarded babies. Comparison of the two groups of infants revealed a difference on five of the 1-second intervals following stimulus onset. When the total heart-rate change scores were examined for each baby, no overlap of the scores was evident for the infants in the nonretarded group with the individual scores of the retarded infants.", "PMID": 443280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6020", "title": "Exploration and play in retarded and nonretarded preschool children: effects of object complexity and age.", "content": "Three-dimensional random polygon objects ranging in complexity between 4 and 40 turns were presented to 12, 30-month-old and 12, 42-month-old moderately retarded and nonretarded children. Time spent in exploration and in play was measured over three successive exposure-time blocks. Exploration time for the combined sample of retarded and nonretarded younger children did not vary with object complexity. The older retarded children explored objects of low complexity more than did either the combined sample of younger children or the older nonretarded children. Nonretarded older children explored complex objects more than did the combined sample of younger children. Exploration time decreased linearly with exposure-time blocks. Play time increased linearly with successive exposure-time blocks and decreased linearly with increasing complexity.", "contents": "Exploration and play in retarded and nonretarded preschool children: effects of object complexity and age. Three-dimensional random polygon objects ranging in complexity between 4 and 40 turns were presented to 12, 30-month-old and 12, 42-month-old moderately retarded and nonretarded children. Time spent in exploration and in play was measured over three successive exposure-time blocks. Exploration time for the combined sample of retarded and nonretarded younger children did not vary with object complexity. The older retarded children explored objects of low complexity more than did either the combined sample of younger children or the older nonretarded children. Nonretarded older children explored complex objects more than did the combined sample of younger children. Exploration time decreased linearly with exposure-time blocks. Play time increased linearly with successive exposure-time blocks and decreased linearly with increasing complexity.", "PMID": 443281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6021", "title": "Early childhood education for psychosocially disadvantaged children: effects on psychological processes.", "content": "The effects of early educational treatment upon the components of psychological development of children at high risk for sociocultural retardation were examined in 50 children. Twenty-six children attended, from infancy, a day-care center where educational treatment in the form of systematic curriculum was provided; 24 control children were educationally untreated. The McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities were administered to both groups at 42 months of age. The educationally treated group's scores were superior to the educationally untreated group on the Verbal, Perceptual-Performance, Quantitative, and Memory Scales but not on the Motor scale. Early education appeared to improve the children's ability to attend to, comprehend, and carry out abstract and complex tasks.", "contents": "Early childhood education for psychosocially disadvantaged children: effects on psychological processes. The effects of early educational treatment upon the components of psychological development of children at high risk for sociocultural retardation were examined in 50 children. Twenty-six children attended, from infancy, a day-care center where educational treatment in the form of systematic curriculum was provided; 24 control children were educationally untreated. The McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities were administered to both groups at 42 months of age. The educationally treated group's scores were superior to the educationally untreated group on the Verbal, Perceptual-Performance, Quantitative, and Memory Scales but not on the Motor scale. Early education appeared to improve the children's ability to attend to, comprehend, and carry out abstract and complex tasks.", "PMID": 443282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6022", "title": "Mislabeling and replication: methodological caveats.", "content": "Subsequent to the publication in 1973 of the Manual on Terminology and Classification in Mental Retardation and the 1977 revisions, investigators have failed to adhere to the revisions. Additionally, some have failed to provide descriptive characteristics of subjects that would permit replication. Implications of these issues were discussed.", "contents": "Mislabeling and replication: methodological caveats. Subsequent to the publication in 1973 of the Manual on Terminology and Classification in Mental Retardation and the 1977 revisions, investigators have failed to adhere to the revisions. Additionally, some have failed to provide descriptive characteristics of subjects that would permit replication. Implications of these issues were discussed.", "PMID": 443283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6023", "title": "Adenylate cyclase from human decidua parietalis.", "content": "Adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1) activity was demonstrated in membrane fractions of human decidua parietalis. Adenylate cyclase activity was associated with membrane fractions of decidua but not chorion or amnion. Prostaglandins PGE1 and PGE2 but neither PGD2 nor PGF2 alpha stimulated this activity at gestational ages 18 to 40 weeks. Fluoride and guanosine triphosphate stimulated decidual adenylate cyclase; however, epinephrine-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was demonstrable only in the presence of guanosine triphosphate. The possible roles of adenylate cyclase activity in the decidua are discussed.", "contents": "Adenylate cyclase from human decidua parietalis. Adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1) activity was demonstrated in membrane fractions of human decidua parietalis. Adenylate cyclase activity was associated with membrane fractions of decidua but not chorion or amnion. Prostaglandins PGE1 and PGE2 but neither PGD2 nor PGF2 alpha stimulated this activity at gestational ages 18 to 40 weeks. Fluoride and guanosine triphosphate stimulated decidual adenylate cyclase; however, epinephrine-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was demonstrable only in the presence of guanosine triphosphate. The possible roles of adenylate cyclase activity in the decidua are discussed.", "PMID": 443285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6024", "title": "Ultrasonic assessment of uterine emptying in first-trimester abortions induced by intravaginal 15-methyl prostaglandin F2 alpha methyl ester.", "content": "Early first-trimester abortions were induced by a single intravaginal pessary containing 3 mg of 15 methyl prostaglandin F2 alpha methyl ester in 17 patients. The procedure was successful in 16 patients (94%). Intrauterine events were observed by means of serial ultrasonic B scans. Pain, bleeding, and dislodgement of the gestational sac had commenced within 6 hours. Significant gastrointestinal side effects occurred in the majority of patients despite medication but they were usually of short duration. Vaginal bleeding, which was not heavy, continued for about 10 days and during most of this time the uterus contained products of conception. It is concluded that the method is effective during the first 7 weeks of gestation.", "contents": "Ultrasonic assessment of uterine emptying in first-trimester abortions induced by intravaginal 15-methyl prostaglandin F2 alpha methyl ester. Early first-trimester abortions were induced by a single intravaginal pessary containing 3 mg of 15 methyl prostaglandin F2 alpha methyl ester in 17 patients. The procedure was successful in 16 patients (94%). Intrauterine events were observed by means of serial ultrasonic B scans. Pain, bleeding, and dislodgement of the gestational sac had commenced within 6 hours. Significant gastrointestinal side effects occurred in the majority of patients despite medication but they were usually of short duration. Vaginal bleeding, which was not heavy, continued for about 10 days and during most of this time the uterus contained products of conception. It is concluded that the method is effective during the first 7 weeks of gestation.", "PMID": 443286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6025", "title": "Pain of first-trimester abortion: its quantification and relations with other variables.", "content": "Among 2,299 patients on whom first-trimester abortions were performed after administration of local anesthesia, 97 per cent reported experiencing some degree of pain. Independent ratings of the pain severity were obtained from the patients and also from the doctors and counselors who observed them. Although the rating procedures used by patients from those used by doctors and counselors, the three sources agreed significantly in evaluating pain levels of individual patients. Data from all three sources indicated that pain produced during the abortion procedure tended to be minor in severity. The ranking of relative painfulness of the eight stages of the aborton procedure based on average ratings obtained from doctors was nearly identical to that based on average ratings obtained from counselors. (Patients did not rate the separate stages.) On average, the patients rated the pain as being less than earache or toothache, but more than headache or bachache. The youngest patients experienced the most pain, and the oldest experienced the least. Both gestational age and cervical dilatation were related to pain in a curvilinear fashion, i.e., for both variables, patients in extreme categories experienced more pain than those in intermediate categories. Preprocedure fearfulness was positively related to intraoperative pain. No support was found for the expectation that oral administration of 5 mg. of diazepam reduces pain during this procedure.", "contents": "Pain of first-trimester abortion: its quantification and relations with other variables. Among 2,299 patients on whom first-trimester abortions were performed after administration of local anesthesia, 97 per cent reported experiencing some degree of pain. Independent ratings of the pain severity were obtained from the patients and also from the doctors and counselors who observed them. Although the rating procedures used by patients from those used by doctors and counselors, the three sources agreed significantly in evaluating pain levels of individual patients. Data from all three sources indicated that pain produced during the abortion procedure tended to be minor in severity. The ranking of relative painfulness of the eight stages of the aborton procedure based on average ratings obtained from doctors was nearly identical to that based on average ratings obtained from counselors. (Patients did not rate the separate stages.) On average, the patients rated the pain as being less than earache or toothache, but more than headache or bachache. The youngest patients experienced the most pain, and the oldest experienced the least. Both gestational age and cervical dilatation were related to pain in a curvilinear fashion, i.e., for both variables, patients in extreme categories experienced more pain than those in intermediate categories. Preprocedure fearfulness was positively related to intraoperative pain. No support was found for the expectation that oral administration of 5 mg. of diazepam reduces pain during this procedure.", "PMID": 443287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6026", "title": "Pyridoxine treatment of chemical diabetes in pregnancy.", "content": "Thirteen women with chemical diabetes diagnosed in late pregnancy were found to excrete excessive amounts of urinary xanthurenic acid after a tryptophan load, indicative of a relative pyridoxine (vitamin B6) deficiency. Treatment with 100 mg pyridoxine daily for 14 to 23 days restored the urinary xanthurenic acid excretion to normal in all patients. Improvement of glucose tolerance was observed in only two of the patients studied, deterioration in six, and no significant change in the remaining five. The insulin response to glucose was unaltered during pyridoxine therapy.", "contents": "Pyridoxine treatment of chemical diabetes in pregnancy. Thirteen women with chemical diabetes diagnosed in late pregnancy were found to excrete excessive amounts of urinary xanthurenic acid after a tryptophan load, indicative of a relative pyridoxine (vitamin B6) deficiency. Treatment with 100 mg pyridoxine daily for 14 to 23 days restored the urinary xanthurenic acid excretion to normal in all patients. Improvement of glucose tolerance was observed in only two of the patients studied, deterioration in six, and no significant change in the remaining five. The insulin response to glucose was unaltered during pyridoxine therapy.", "PMID": 443288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6027", "title": "Obstetric factors influencing outcome in infants weighing from 1,001 to 1,500 grams.", "content": "The neonatal mortality rate has dramatically improved in recent years. Occurrence of these losses is concentrated in low-birth-weight infants. At Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center, the infants weighing less than 1,500 grams contribute two thirds of neonatal deaths, although they may represent only 1.5 per cent of total births. Such observations have led to the evaluation of obstetric factors as they relate to the outcome in the low-birth-weight infants weighing from 1,001 to 1,500 grams. Retrospective evaluation of 201 low-birth-weight-infants' charts demonstrated a tendency by the obstetrician to clinically underestimate fetal weight. In cases where fetal estimated weight and measured birth weight correlated, the mortality rate was 20 per cent; in cases of underestimation, the mortality rate rose to 50 per cent. Other obstetric factors evaluated were the use of FHR monitoring, the method of delivery, and the significance of the Apgar score.", "contents": "Obstetric factors influencing outcome in infants weighing from 1,001 to 1,500 grams. The neonatal mortality rate has dramatically improved in recent years. Occurrence of these losses is concentrated in low-birth-weight infants. At Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center, the infants weighing less than 1,500 grams contribute two thirds of neonatal deaths, although they may represent only 1.5 per cent of total births. Such observations have led to the evaluation of obstetric factors as they relate to the outcome in the low-birth-weight infants weighing from 1,001 to 1,500 grams. Retrospective evaluation of 201 low-birth-weight-infants' charts demonstrated a tendency by the obstetrician to clinically underestimate fetal weight. In cases where fetal estimated weight and measured birth weight correlated, the mortality rate was 20 per cent; in cases of underestimation, the mortality rate rose to 50 per cent. Other obstetric factors evaluated were the use of FHR monitoring, the method of delivery, and the significance of the Apgar score.", "PMID": 443289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6028", "title": "Pre-ejection period of cardiac cycles in fetal lamb.", "content": "The pre-ejection period (PEP) of the fetal cardiac cycle was studied on 22 chronically instrumented pregnant ewes. The PEP was measured from the onset of the Q wave on fetal electrocardiogram to the onset of the upstroke on the fetal arterial blood pressure curve. Lengthening of the PEP was observed in association with an increase in gestational age, fetal body weight, fetal brow-rump length, and fetal heart weight. Consequently, the PEP values were calculated to those at fetal heart weight of 10 grams. The PEPc (calculated) was prolonged by acidosis but no significant relationship was found between the PEPc and arterial blood pO2. An increase in coronary blood flow was associated with a shortening of the PEPc in the fetuses under normal physiologic conditions. Fetal hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis created by administration of 10 per cent O2 and 20 per cent CO2 with 20 per cent O2 to the mother increased fetal coronary flow and was in general associated with a prolonged pre-ejection period.", "contents": "Pre-ejection period of cardiac cycles in fetal lamb. The pre-ejection period (PEP) of the fetal cardiac cycle was studied on 22 chronically instrumented pregnant ewes. The PEP was measured from the onset of the Q wave on fetal electrocardiogram to the onset of the upstroke on the fetal arterial blood pressure curve. Lengthening of the PEP was observed in association with an increase in gestational age, fetal body weight, fetal brow-rump length, and fetal heart weight. Consequently, the PEP values were calculated to those at fetal heart weight of 10 grams. The PEPc (calculated) was prolonged by acidosis but no significant relationship was found between the PEPc and arterial blood pO2. An increase in coronary blood flow was associated with a shortening of the PEPc in the fetuses under normal physiologic conditions. Fetal hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis created by administration of 10 per cent O2 and 20 per cent CO2 with 20 per cent O2 to the mother increased fetal coronary flow and was in general associated with a prolonged pre-ejection period.", "PMID": 443290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6029", "title": "Antepartum determination of pre-ejection period of fetal cardiac cycle: its relation to newborn body weight.", "content": "Simultaneous recordings of the fetal electrocardiogram and ultrasound Doppler-cardiogram were used for the determination of the pre-ejection period (PEP) of the fetal cardiac cycles. All 50 fetuses selected for the present study experienced uneventful perinatal lives despite maternal antepartum complications which required hospitalization. A significant positive correlation between the PEP and gestational age of the fetuses was again demonstrated. The PEP of the fetus measured within one week prior to delivery was also found to be significantly correlated with the newborn body weights at birth. Statistical analysis demonstrates that fetal body weight was more closely related to the physiologic lengthening of the PEP.", "contents": "Antepartum determination of pre-ejection period of fetal cardiac cycle: its relation to newborn body weight. Simultaneous recordings of the fetal electrocardiogram and ultrasound Doppler-cardiogram were used for the determination of the pre-ejection period (PEP) of the fetal cardiac cycles. All 50 fetuses selected for the present study experienced uneventful perinatal lives despite maternal antepartum complications which required hospitalization. A significant positive correlation between the PEP and gestational age of the fetuses was again demonstrated. The PEP of the fetus measured within one week prior to delivery was also found to be significantly correlated with the newborn body weights at birth. Statistical analysis demonstrates that fetal body weight was more closely related to the physiologic lengthening of the PEP.", "PMID": 443291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6030", "title": "Experience with sonography as an adjunct to amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis of fetal genetic disorders.", "content": "This report summarized our experience with a consecutive series of 800 women referred for midtrimester amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis of a fetal genetic abnormality. The results are compared before and after introduction of sonography immediately prior to the tap as a routine adjunct of the procedure. Following use of sonography there was a statistically significant reduction in the frequency of bloody taps, and an increase in the proportion of successful and informative initial taps. Moreover, in many instances sonography provided information useful for identification of fetal abnormalities or for management of pregnancy. These findings support the recommendation that examination by sonography should be utilized routinely as an adjunct to amniocentesis, despite the uncertainities relating to possible long-term adverse effects of intrauterine exposure to ultrasound.", "contents": "Experience with sonography as an adjunct to amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis of fetal genetic disorders. This report summarized our experience with a consecutive series of 800 women referred for midtrimester amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis of a fetal genetic abnormality. The results are compared before and after introduction of sonography immediately prior to the tap as a routine adjunct of the procedure. Following use of sonography there was a statistically significant reduction in the frequency of bloody taps, and an increase in the proportion of successful and informative initial taps. Moreover, in many instances sonography provided information useful for identification of fetal abnormalities or for management of pregnancy. These findings support the recommendation that examination by sonography should be utilized routinely as an adjunct to amniocentesis, despite the uncertainities relating to possible long-term adverse effects of intrauterine exposure to ultrasound.", "PMID": 443292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6031", "title": "Effects of long-term estrogen replacement therapy. I. Metabolic effects.", "content": "Two groups of hypoestrogenic women are analyzed by retrospective comparisons. Patients were observed by a single group of physicians for at least five years; 301 patients were treated with replacement estrogen and 309 patients were untreated. Incidence figures for various metabolic diseases present at entry and both during and after estrogen therapy were compared by the usual statistical analysis and by statistical adjustments for certain group differences (Mantel-Haenszel statistic). The long-term administration of estrogen to these relatively young women with hypoestrogenism was associated with significantly lower rates of development of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, and fractures. Detrimental effects were a higher rate of abnormal uterine bleeding and an increase in the likelihood of developing adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. Effects of estrogen preparation, dosage, method of therapy, duration of therapy, and the addition of synthetic progestins are presented.", "contents": "Effects of long-term estrogen replacement therapy. I. Metabolic effects. Two groups of hypoestrogenic women are analyzed by retrospective comparisons. Patients were observed by a single group of physicians for at least five years; 301 patients were treated with replacement estrogen and 309 patients were untreated. Incidence figures for various metabolic diseases present at entry and both during and after estrogen therapy were compared by the usual statistical analysis and by statistical adjustments for certain group differences (Mantel-Haenszel statistic). The long-term administration of estrogen to these relatively young women with hypoestrogenism was associated with significantly lower rates of development of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, and fractures. Detrimental effects were a higher rate of abnormal uterine bleeding and an increase in the likelihood of developing adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. Effects of estrogen preparation, dosage, method of therapy, duration of therapy, and the addition of synthetic progestins are presented.", "PMID": 443293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6032", "title": "Elevated plasma prolactin concentration in cholestasis of pregnancy.", "content": "The plasma concentrations of prolactin and estradiol-17 beta were measured by specific radioimmunoassays in 150 women with normal pregnancies and 76 women with cholestasis of pregnancy. At 33 to 34 weeks of gestation plasma prolactin concentrations were 187 +/- 23 ng/ml (mean +/- S.E.M.) for normal pregnancy and 341 +/- 38 ng/ml for cholestasis (p less than 0.001). At 35 to 36 weeks they were 254 +/- 24 and 355 +/- 26 ng/ml (p less than 0.01), and at 37 to 38 weeks 175 +/- 14 and 365 +/- 34 ng/ml (p less than 0.001), respectively. Higher prolactin levels in the cholestasis group were not related to differences in plasma estradiol-17 beta concentrations. No correlation was found between plasma prolactin and serum aminotransferase levels, or between prolactin levels and placental weight. The mechanisms by which plasma prolactin levels become elevated in cholestasis of pregnancy remain to be elucidated.", "contents": "Elevated plasma prolactin concentration in cholestasis of pregnancy. The plasma concentrations of prolactin and estradiol-17 beta were measured by specific radioimmunoassays in 150 women with normal pregnancies and 76 women with cholestasis of pregnancy. At 33 to 34 weeks of gestation plasma prolactin concentrations were 187 +/- 23 ng/ml (mean +/- S.E.M.) for normal pregnancy and 341 +/- 38 ng/ml for cholestasis (p less than 0.001). At 35 to 36 weeks they were 254 +/- 24 and 355 +/- 26 ng/ml (p less than 0.01), and at 37 to 38 weeks 175 +/- 14 and 365 +/- 34 ng/ml (p less than 0.001), respectively. Higher prolactin levels in the cholestasis group were not related to differences in plasma estradiol-17 beta concentrations. No correlation was found between plasma prolactin and serum aminotransferase levels, or between prolactin levels and placental weight. The mechanisms by which plasma prolactin levels become elevated in cholestasis of pregnancy remain to be elucidated.", "PMID": 443298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6033", "title": "Maternal and fetal renin activity and renin and big renin concentrations in second-trimester pregnancy.", "content": "Plasma renin activity (PRA) and the concentrations of renin (PRC) and big renin (PBRC) have been determined in maternal and fetal blood, and renin and big renin have been measured in amniotic fluid, at 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. Gradients between peripheral arterial and venous and uterine venous maternal circulation were not apparent for PRA, PRC, or PBRC. PRC and PBRC but not PRA were consistently higher in fetal cord blood than in the maternal compartment. The concentrations of big renin and of renin were tenfold higher in amniotic fluid than in maternal plasma and were significantly correlated in amniotic fluid but not maternal or fetal plasma.", "contents": "Maternal and fetal renin activity and renin and big renin concentrations in second-trimester pregnancy. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and the concentrations of renin (PRC) and big renin (PBRC) have been determined in maternal and fetal blood, and renin and big renin have been measured in amniotic fluid, at 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. Gradients between peripheral arterial and venous and uterine venous maternal circulation were not apparent for PRA, PRC, or PBRC. PRC and PBRC but not PRA were consistently higher in fetal cord blood than in the maternal compartment. The concentrations of big renin and of renin were tenfold higher in amniotic fluid than in maternal plasma and were significantly correlated in amniotic fluid but not maternal or fetal plasma.", "PMID": 443303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6034", "title": "The value of diagnostic ultrasound as a screening test for intrauterine growth retardation: comparison of nine parameters.", "content": "In an attempt to devise a screening method for the detection of unsuspected IUGR, a battery of ultrasonic measurements of the fetus were performed in a series of 255 patients at approximately 32, 34, and 36 weeks. The results obtained from the 16 growth-retarded and the 239 normally grown babies were evaluated. While no single measurement was found to discriminate the two groups, a simple combination of crown-rump length times area of trunk allowed us to identify an at-risk group comprising 11 per cent of the population. The false positive and false negative results were acceptable at levels of 10 and 6 per cent, approximately. It is considered that these results would justify a larger and prospectively randomized controlled trial to assess the benefits and drawbacks of applying these measurements in a screening schedule.", "contents": "The value of diagnostic ultrasound as a screening test for intrauterine growth retardation: comparison of nine parameters. In an attempt to devise a screening method for the detection of unsuspected IUGR, a battery of ultrasonic measurements of the fetus were performed in a series of 255 patients at approximately 32, 34, and 36 weeks. The results obtained from the 16 growth-retarded and the 239 normally grown babies were evaluated. While no single measurement was found to discriminate the two groups, a simple combination of crown-rump length times area of trunk allowed us to identify an at-risk group comprising 11 per cent of the population. The false positive and false negative results were acceptable at levels of 10 and 6 per cent, approximately. It is considered that these results would justify a larger and prospectively randomized controlled trial to assess the benefits and drawbacks of applying these measurements in a screening schedule.", "PMID": 443304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6035", "title": "Fetal heart rate acceleration in labor: excellent prognostic indicator.", "content": "This study explores the significance of fetal heart rate acceleration in labor. Fetal heart rate accelerations were studied in 1,677 monitored laboring patients. Fetal outcome was analyzed according to perinatal mortality rate. Apgar scores, and incidence of late deceleration. The presence of accelerations of the fetal heart rate during labor proved to be an excellent indicator of subsequent good fetal outcome.", "contents": "Fetal heart rate acceleration in labor: excellent prognostic indicator. This study explores the significance of fetal heart rate acceleration in labor. Fetal heart rate accelerations were studied in 1,677 monitored laboring patients. Fetal outcome was analyzed according to perinatal mortality rate. Apgar scores, and incidence of late deceleration. The presence of accelerations of the fetal heart rate during labor proved to be an excellent indicator of subsequent good fetal outcome.", "PMID": 443305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6036", "title": "Screening for alcohol-related problems in an outpatient obstetric-gynecologic clinic.", "content": "Three methods of screening for alcohol-related problems were tested in 499 to 565 consecutive patients in an obstetric-gynecologic outpatient clinic. The methods included a 31 item self-administered questionnaire, a six-item physician-administered questionnaire, and a blood alcohol test. Medical records were reviewed for mention of conditions sometimes associated with alcohol use. Sixteen percent of the women were heavy drinkers, and 18% were found on screening to be probable or potential problem drinkers. In women under age 40 years heavy drinking was associated with a higher incidence of physical problems sometimes associated with excessive alcohol use, and significantly lower birth weights were observed in infants born to obstetric patients who were positive on screening for alcohol-related problems.", "contents": "Screening for alcohol-related problems in an outpatient obstetric-gynecologic clinic. Three methods of screening for alcohol-related problems were tested in 499 to 565 consecutive patients in an obstetric-gynecologic outpatient clinic. The methods included a 31 item self-administered questionnaire, a six-item physician-administered questionnaire, and a blood alcohol test. Medical records were reviewed for mention of conditions sometimes associated with alcohol use. Sixteen percent of the women were heavy drinkers, and 18% were found on screening to be probable or potential problem drinkers. In women under age 40 years heavy drinking was associated with a higher incidence of physical problems sometimes associated with excessive alcohol use, and significantly lower birth weights were observed in infants born to obstetric patients who were positive on screening for alcohol-related problems.", "PMID": 443306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6037", "title": "Galactorrhea and pituitary tumors in postpill and non-postpill secondary amenorrhea.", "content": "One hundred sixty-seven women with secondary amenorrhea were observed from six months to four years. In 66 patients, the amenorrhea followed the discontinuation of oral contraceptives (postpill) while in the remaining 101 the amenorrhea was not temporally pill related (non-postpill). Galactorrhea was present in 43 (65%) of those with postpill amenorrhea and in 32 (32%) of those with non-postpill amenorrhea (p less than 0.001). Tomography of the sella turcica was performed in the 75 women with galactorrhea and in the 35 without galactorrhea who did not have withdrawal uterine bleeding following progesterone administration and who had low or normal serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels (hypothalamic-pituitary failure). Forty of the 75 patients with amenorrhea and galactorrhea had radiographic evidence of a pituitary tumor whereas only eight of 35 patients with hypothalamic-pituitary failure without galactorrhea had an abnormal sella turcica (p less than 0.01). The incidence of radiographic abnormalities in those with galactorrhea was similar in both the postpill and non-postpill groups.", "contents": "Galactorrhea and pituitary tumors in postpill and non-postpill secondary amenorrhea. One hundred sixty-seven women with secondary amenorrhea were observed from six months to four years. In 66 patients, the amenorrhea followed the discontinuation of oral contraceptives (postpill) while in the remaining 101 the amenorrhea was not temporally pill related (non-postpill). Galactorrhea was present in 43 (65%) of those with postpill amenorrhea and in 32 (32%) of those with non-postpill amenorrhea (p less than 0.001). Tomography of the sella turcica was performed in the 75 women with galactorrhea and in the 35 without galactorrhea who did not have withdrawal uterine bleeding following progesterone administration and who had low or normal serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels (hypothalamic-pituitary failure). Forty of the 75 patients with amenorrhea and galactorrhea had radiographic evidence of a pituitary tumor whereas only eight of 35 patients with hypothalamic-pituitary failure without galactorrhea had an abnormal sella turcica (p less than 0.01). The incidence of radiographic abnormalities in those with galactorrhea was similar in both the postpill and non-postpill groups.", "PMID": 443307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6038", "title": "Factors for improved genetic counseling for retinoblastoma based on a survey of 55 families.", "content": "Of 55 families in which one or more patients with retinoblastoma were treated, five of these families involved more than one patient. The remaining 50 were sporadic cases. Two of the five familial cases involved collateral inheritance and three involved direct inheritance. Factors important for genetic counseling included the time of onset of first symptoms, the age of the father, the occurrence of a second primary tumor, unilateral vs bilateral involvement, and the cytogenetic analysis of the patient's chromosomes. Additionally, mutational mosaicism was considered as a cause for sporadic cases of retinoblastoma. Use of the risk figures derived from this study should provide more precise genetic counseling for parents, siblings, and patients with retinoblastoma.", "contents": "Factors for improved genetic counseling for retinoblastoma based on a survey of 55 families. Of 55 families in which one or more patients with retinoblastoma were treated, five of these families involved more than one patient. The remaining 50 were sporadic cases. Two of the five familial cases involved collateral inheritance and three involved direct inheritance. Factors important for genetic counseling included the time of onset of first symptoms, the age of the father, the occurrence of a second primary tumor, unilateral vs bilateral involvement, and the cytogenetic analysis of the patient's chromosomes. Additionally, mutational mosaicism was considered as a cause for sporadic cases of retinoblastoma. Use of the risk figures derived from this study should provide more precise genetic counseling for parents, siblings, and patients with retinoblastoma.", "PMID": 443309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6039", "title": "Electroretinographic testing as an aid in detection of carriers of X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa.", "content": "Twenty-two of 23 obligate female carriers in nine families with known X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa were detected on the basis of abnormal full-field electroretinograms (ERGs). Only 14 of these carriers had fundus findings characteristic of the carrier state. Electroretinograms of carriers were either reduced in amplitude to white light under dark-adapted conditions or delayed in cone b-wave implicit time, or both. Daughters of obligate carriers had either normal ERGs or abnormal ERGs similar to those recorded from obligate carriers. Abnormal ERGs of carriers of X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa contrasted with the normal ERGs recorded from female carriers of autosomal recessive disease. These data support the idea that ERG testing of female relatives of males with retinitis pigmentosa can help to establish for a given family whether the mode of inheritance is X-chromosome-linked or autosomal recessive.", "contents": "Electroretinographic testing as an aid in detection of carriers of X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa. Twenty-two of 23 obligate female carriers in nine families with known X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa were detected on the basis of abnormal full-field electroretinograms (ERGs). Only 14 of these carriers had fundus findings characteristic of the carrier state. Electroretinograms of carriers were either reduced in amplitude to white light under dark-adapted conditions or delayed in cone b-wave implicit time, or both. Daughters of obligate carriers had either normal ERGs or abnormal ERGs similar to those recorded from obligate carriers. Abnormal ERGs of carriers of X-chromosome-linked retinitis pigmentosa contrasted with the normal ERGs recorded from female carriers of autosomal recessive disease. These data support the idea that ERG testing of female relatives of males with retinitis pigmentosa can help to establish for a given family whether the mode of inheritance is X-chromosome-linked or autosomal recessive.", "PMID": 443310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6040", "title": "Enlargement of a histologically documented choroidal nevus.", "content": "An elevated pigmented mass of the choroid remained stable for 6 1/2 years and then was documented photographically to have increased in size. The tumor stained on fluorescein angiography, produced a visual field defect, and differentially took up radioactive phosphorus. The eye was enucleated and on histologic examination contained a nevus of the choroid. This case shows that enlargement of a choroidal nevus may occur during adulthood, and suggests that despite newer and more sophisticated diagnostic techniques, large nevi and small melanomas of the choroid may be clinically indistinguishable.", "contents": "Enlargement of a histologically documented choroidal nevus. An elevated pigmented mass of the choroid remained stable for 6 1/2 years and then was documented photographically to have increased in size. The tumor stained on fluorescein angiography, produced a visual field defect, and differentially took up radioactive phosphorus. The eye was enucleated and on histologic examination contained a nevus of the choroid. This case shows that enlargement of a choroidal nevus may occur during adulthood, and suggests that despite newer and more sophisticated diagnostic techniques, large nevi and small melanomas of the choroid may be clinically indistinguishable.", "PMID": 443311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6041", "title": "The effect of indomethacin pretreatment on aphakic cystoid macular edema.", "content": "In patients treated with oral indomethacin for four weeks after intracapsular cataract extraction, five of 57 eyes (9%) had cystoid macular edema four to six weeks postoperatively as shown by fluorescein angiography. In a control group not treated with indomethacin, 15 of 34 eyes (44%) had cystoid mascular edema. Oral indomethacin, therefore, caused a statistically significant decrease in the incidence of aphakic cystoid macular edema.", "contents": "The effect of indomethacin pretreatment on aphakic cystoid macular edema. In patients treated with oral indomethacin for four weeks after intracapsular cataract extraction, five of 57 eyes (9%) had cystoid macular edema four to six weeks postoperatively as shown by fluorescein angiography. In a control group not treated with indomethacin, 15 of 34 eyes (44%) had cystoid mascular edema. Oral indomethacin, therefore, caused a statistically significant decrease in the incidence of aphakic cystoid macular edema.", "PMID": 443312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6042", "title": "Ocular sarcoidosis occurring as a unilateral optic disk vascular lesion.", "content": "A 36-year-old black man who was taking low doses of systemic corticosteroids for systemic sarcoidosis had a vascular lesion of the left optic disk as the only ocular sign. The lesion regressed over a four-month period with high dosage corticosteroid therapy, but he developed optic atrophy and visual acuity of no light perception.", "contents": "Ocular sarcoidosis occurring as a unilateral optic disk vascular lesion. A 36-year-old black man who was taking low doses of systemic corticosteroids for systemic sarcoidosis had a vascular lesion of the left optic disk as the only ocular sign. The lesion regressed over a four-month period with high dosage corticosteroid therapy, but he developed optic atrophy and visual acuity of no light perception.", "PMID": 443313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6043", "title": "Sterilization of scleral homografts with ionizing irradiation.", "content": "We devised a method of sterilization and preservation of sclera that we have found reliable and convenient. Gamma irradiation is a highly effective method of sterilization. Airtight, watertight, plastic packaging of frozen irradiated sclera allows for safe long-term storage and for convenient use in the operating room.", "contents": "Sterilization of scleral homografts with ionizing irradiation. We devised a method of sterilization and preservation of sclera that we have found reliable and convenient. Gamma irradiation is a highly effective method of sterilization. Airtight, watertight, plastic packaging of frozen irradiated sclera allows for safe long-term storage and for convenient use in the operating room.", "PMID": 443314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6044", "title": "Cycloscopy of pseudoexfoliation.", "content": "We examined patient's eyes with pseudoexfoliation gonioscopically and cycloscopically. In almost all eyes with pseudoexfoliation, accumulation was found in the zonules and ciliary processes in addition to the lens surface and iris border. In the fellow eyes of unilaterally affected eyes, pseudoexfoliative deposits were found in the zonules and ciliary processes in more than one half of the cases, leading us to conclude that pseudoexfoliative deposits in the zonule and ciliary process may be an early and consistent characteristic of pseudoexfoliation and may be an integral part of the clinical picture of pseudoexfoliation.", "contents": "Cycloscopy of pseudoexfoliation. We examined patient's eyes with pseudoexfoliation gonioscopically and cycloscopically. In almost all eyes with pseudoexfoliation, accumulation was found in the zonules and ciliary processes in addition to the lens surface and iris border. In the fellow eyes of unilaterally affected eyes, pseudoexfoliative deposits were found in the zonules and ciliary processes in more than one half of the cases, leading us to conclude that pseudoexfoliative deposits in the zonule and ciliary process may be an early and consistent characteristic of pseudoexfoliation and may be an integral part of the clinical picture of pseudoexfoliation.", "PMID": 443315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6045", "title": "Long-term follow-up of treated open-angle glaucoma.", "content": "We observed 16 eyes of ten glaucoma patients for a mean of 17 years (range, eight to 42 years). Each patient had typical glaucomatous damage to the optic disk and visual field. In most cases, decrease in intraocular pressure prevented further damage over extended periods. Our data reinforces the importance of intraocular pressure reduction in preventing visual loss in glaucoma.", "contents": "Long-term follow-up of treated open-angle glaucoma. We observed 16 eyes of ten glaucoma patients for a mean of 17 years (range, eight to 42 years). Each patient had typical glaucomatous damage to the optic disk and visual field. In most cases, decrease in intraocular pressure prevented further damage over extended periods. Our data reinforces the importance of intraocular pressure reduction in preventing visual loss in glaucoma.", "PMID": 443316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6046", "title": "Optic canal fractures after rhinologic surgery.", "content": "In two women, 26 and 24 years old, respectively, polytomography revealed optic canal fractures. The investigation of visual loss after orbital or otolaryngologic surgery included tomography of the optic canals to rule out compression of the intracanalicular optic nerve.", "contents": "Optic canal fractures after rhinologic surgery. In two women, 26 and 24 years old, respectively, polytomography revealed optic canal fractures. The investigation of visual loss after orbital or otolaryngologic surgery included tomography of the optic canals to rule out compression of the intracanalicular optic nerve.", "PMID": 443317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6047", "title": "Pupillary membrane excision and anterior vitrectomy in eyes after uveitis.", "content": "Three patients with uveitis and dense pupillary membranes, total synechial closure of the angle, and low or normal pressure, underwent membranectomy and anterior vitrectomy via a limbal approach using scissors and a vitrectomy instrument. Postoperatively all regained useful vision that has been maintained for over two years despite the persistence of angle closure in all cases and severe hypotony in two.", "contents": "Pupillary membrane excision and anterior vitrectomy in eyes after uveitis. Three patients with uveitis and dense pupillary membranes, total synechial closure of the angle, and low or normal pressure, underwent membranectomy and anterior vitrectomy via a limbal approach using scissors and a vitrectomy instrument. Postoperatively all regained useful vision that has been maintained for over two years despite the persistence of angle closure in all cases and severe hypotony in two.", "PMID": 443318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6048", "title": "Suppressive effects of indomethacin on thermally induced neovascularization of rabbit corneas.", "content": "In 16 rabbits with bilateral corneal burns, indomethacin was administered topically to one eye on each day after the lesion was made to determine the effect of a prostaglandin inhibitor on the corneal neovascular response to experimental thermal burns. Comparison of the two eyes showed a reduction of both hyperemia and neovascularization in indomethacin-treated eyes during the first five days after injury. Histologic observations during this period showed a reduction in polymorphonuclear cell infiltration in the treated corneas. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin apparently led to a reduction in the inflammatory response and the subsequent corneal neovascularization.", "contents": "Suppressive effects of indomethacin on thermally induced neovascularization of rabbit corneas. In 16 rabbits with bilateral corneal burns, indomethacin was administered topically to one eye on each day after the lesion was made to determine the effect of a prostaglandin inhibitor on the corneal neovascular response to experimental thermal burns. Comparison of the two eyes showed a reduction of both hyperemia and neovascularization in indomethacin-treated eyes during the first five days after injury. Histologic observations during this period showed a reduction in polymorphonuclear cell infiltration in the treated corneas. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin apparently led to a reduction in the inflammatory response and the subsequent corneal neovascularization.", "PMID": 443319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6049", "title": "Vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis compared and contrasted.", "content": "We compared quantitative histologic counts of ten subjects with vernal conjunctivitis to counts of 15 subjects with contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis and to counts of 15 normal subjects. Both vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis subjects had abnormalities of mast cells in the epithelium, and eosinophils and basophils in epithelium and substantia propria. No normal individuals had these abnormalities. An additional 28 subjects with ocular inflammatory conditions had tissue evaluation for abnormalities of mast cells, eosinophils, and basophils. A few eosinophils were found in four subjects. The histologic abnormalities of vernal conjunctivitis are shared by contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis but not by conjunctival inflammation in general. Vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis may represent different subtypes of a general category of conjunctival abnormality characterized by giant papillae.", "contents": "Vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis compared and contrasted. We compared quantitative histologic counts of ten subjects with vernal conjunctivitis to counts of 15 subjects with contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis and to counts of 15 normal subjects. Both vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis subjects had abnormalities of mast cells in the epithelium, and eosinophils and basophils in epithelium and substantia propria. No normal individuals had these abnormalities. An additional 28 subjects with ocular inflammatory conditions had tissue evaluation for abnormalities of mast cells, eosinophils, and basophils. A few eosinophils were found in four subjects. The histologic abnormalities of vernal conjunctivitis are shared by contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis but not by conjunctival inflammation in general. Vernal conjunctivitis and contact lens-associated giant papillary conjunctivitis may represent different subtypes of a general category of conjunctival abnormality characterized by giant papillae.", "PMID": 443320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6050", "title": "Dry coating of intraocular lenses with bovine submaxillary mucin.", "content": "Uncoated intraocular lenses caused extensive corneal endothelial cell damage after in vitro contact (mean, 30.9% cell loss), whereas lenses coated with bovine submaxillary mucin type 1 caused minimal cell loss (mean 4.3%). No observable in vivo toxicity in the eye occurred when 0.1 ml of 3, 6, or 9% solution was injected into the anterior chamber. Mucin-coated lenses can be sterilized by ethylene oxide with no measurable adsorbence into the coating. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the results from vital staining.", "contents": "Dry coating of intraocular lenses with bovine submaxillary mucin. Uncoated intraocular lenses caused extensive corneal endothelial cell damage after in vitro contact (mean, 30.9% cell loss), whereas lenses coated with bovine submaxillary mucin type 1 caused minimal cell loss (mean 4.3%). No observable in vivo toxicity in the eye occurred when 0.1 ml of 3, 6, or 9% solution was injected into the anterior chamber. Mucin-coated lenses can be sterilized by ethylene oxide with no measurable adsorbence into the coating. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the results from vital staining.", "PMID": 443321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6051", "title": "Director for the Choyce implant.", "content": "I designed an instrument for directing the inferior and superior feet of the Choyce intraocular implant into the anterior chamber angle.", "contents": "Director for the Choyce implant. I designed an instrument for directing the inferior and superior feet of the Choyce intraocular implant into the anterior chamber angle.", "PMID": 443322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6052", "title": "Patient data displaying attachment for the Bronson-Turner ophthalmic contact B-scan ultrasonoscope.", "content": "A numerical light-emitting diode data displaying attachment designed for the Bronson-Turner Ophthalmic Contact B-Scan Ultrasonoscope provides the following information: patient's identification number, date of the examination, eye examined, position of the transducer probe, and decibel setting. The light-emitting diodes are placed over the upper border of the display screen and appear automatically on all photographs of the ultrasonic display.", "contents": "Patient data displaying attachment for the Bronson-Turner ophthalmic contact B-scan ultrasonoscope. A numerical light-emitting diode data displaying attachment designed for the Bronson-Turner Ophthalmic Contact B-Scan Ultrasonoscope provides the following information: patient's identification number, date of the examination, eye examined, position of the transducer probe, and decibel setting. The light-emitting diodes are placed over the upper border of the display screen and appear automatically on all photographs of the ultrasonic display.", "PMID": 443323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6053", "title": "Rose bengal strips.", "content": "I prepared rose bengal biological stain from its powder base to a 1% concentration. It was then impregnated into filter paper and allowed to air dry. The filter paper strips were sterilized and stored for individual use.", "contents": "Rose bengal strips. I prepared rose bengal biological stain from its powder base to a 1% concentration. It was then impregnated into filter paper and allowed to air dry. The filter paper strips were sterilized and stored for individual use.", "PMID": 443324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6054", "title": "Fluoroscopy of the lacrimal system during intubation of contrast material.", "content": "Dacryocystofluoroscopy provides a method of constant visualization of the lacrimal drainage system during the injection of contrast material. Abnormalities can be immediately documented on spot films.", "contents": "Fluoroscopy of the lacrimal system during intubation of contrast material. Dacryocystofluoroscopy provides a method of constant visualization of the lacrimal drainage system during the injection of contrast material. Abnormalities can be immediately documented on spot films.", "PMID": 443325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6055", "title": "A simple blue filter for the pocket flashlight.", "content": "I devised an easily constructed blue filter for use with a disposable pocket flashlight for detecting fluorescein staining in external disease that can be kept in the pocket and placed on and off the light with ease.", "contents": "A simple blue filter for the pocket flashlight. I devised an easily constructed blue filter for use with a disposable pocket flashlight for detecting fluorescein staining in external disease that can be kept in the pocket and placed on and off the light with ease.", "PMID": 443327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6056", "title": "A new type of contact lens for vitrectomy.", "content": "I designed a new type of contact lens for vitrectomy that consists of an outer scleral part and an inner rotatable cylindrical piece with a prismatic anterior surface.", "contents": "A new type of contact lens for vitrectomy. I designed a new type of contact lens for vitrectomy that consists of an outer scleral part and an inner rotatable cylindrical piece with a prismatic anterior surface.", "PMID": 443328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6057", "title": "What patients recall of the preoperative discussion after retinal detachment surgery.", "content": "We conducted a prospective study to determine the percentage of preoperative information that was retained by 100 patients undergoing a scleral buckling procedure. Each patient received a standardized preoperative discussion regarding the nature of retinal detachment and its management. During the immediate postoperative period, each patient was questioned about the informed consent discussion. Although 97% of the patients acknowledged a thorough preoperative discussion there was a definite disparity between the patients' concept of adequate physician disclosure and the actual retention of the preoperative explanation. Overall retention of preoperative disclosure based on correct answers to 12 questions was only 57%. Few patients, 23%, retained knowledge of surgical risks, and only 61% remembered that a foreign material would be permanently sutured to the eye. When a patient failed to remember the correct answer to a question, more than half of the time he or she denied that information relevant to the question had been discussed. The results of this study indicate that patients retain primarily information that seems to be in favor of their decision to have surgery.", "contents": "What patients recall of the preoperative discussion after retinal detachment surgery. We conducted a prospective study to determine the percentage of preoperative information that was retained by 100 patients undergoing a scleral buckling procedure. Each patient received a standardized preoperative discussion regarding the nature of retinal detachment and its management. During the immediate postoperative period, each patient was questioned about the informed consent discussion. Although 97% of the patients acknowledged a thorough preoperative discussion there was a definite disparity between the patients' concept of adequate physician disclosure and the actual retention of the preoperative explanation. Overall retention of preoperative disclosure based on correct answers to 12 questions was only 57%. Few patients, 23%, retained knowledge of surgical risks, and only 61% remembered that a foreign material would be permanently sutured to the eye. When a patient failed to remember the correct answer to a question, more than half of the time he or she denied that information relevant to the question had been discussed. The results of this study indicate that patients retain primarily information that seems to be in favor of their decision to have surgery.", "PMID": 443331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6058", "title": "Retinal detachment after phacoemulsification.", "content": "We reviewed the characteristics of 100 retinal detachments after phacoemulsification. The characteristics of retinal breaks and the configurations of the detachments were similar to cases of retinal detachments after intracapsular surgery. Evidence indicates that detachments occurring within six months of cataract surgery appeared to be statistically different from those occurring more than one year after phacoemulsification. Those detachments occurring within six months after cataract surgery tended to be more phakic in nature than those occurring relatively late. The surgical reattachment rates in these eyes compared favorably to previously published figures on the repair of retinal detachment after intracapsular surgery.", "contents": "Retinal detachment after phacoemulsification. We reviewed the characteristics of 100 retinal detachments after phacoemulsification. The characteristics of retinal breaks and the configurations of the detachments were similar to cases of retinal detachments after intracapsular surgery. Evidence indicates that detachments occurring within six months of cataract surgery appeared to be statistically different from those occurring more than one year after phacoemulsification. Those detachments occurring within six months after cataract surgery tended to be more phakic in nature than those occurring relatively late. The surgical reattachment rates in these eyes compared favorably to previously published figures on the repair of retinal detachment after intracapsular surgery.", "PMID": 443332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6059", "title": "Congenital fibrosarcoma metastatic to the choroid.", "content": "A 2 1/2-year-old boy developed a choroidal metastasis from a congenital fibrosarcoma of the lower left limb that had been amputated shortly after birth. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of a congenital fibrosarcoma that metastasized to the choroid.", "contents": "Congenital fibrosarcoma metastatic to the choroid. A 2 1/2-year-old boy developed a choroidal metastasis from a congenital fibrosarcoma of the lower left limb that had been amputated shortly after birth. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of a congenital fibrosarcoma that metastasized to the choroid.", "PMID": 443333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6060", "title": "Incidence of uveal malignant melanoma in the resident population of Rochester and Olmsted County, Minnesota.", "content": "Uveal malignant melanomas were diagnosed in 15 patients in the resident population of Rochester and Olmsted County, Minnesota, from 1935 through 1974. There were five males and ten females. In this well-defined community, the annual incidence of uveal malignant melanoma for the 40-year period was calculated to be seven per million per year. The incidence in the resident population under age 50 years was three per million, whereas for those age 50 years or older, it increased to 21 per million per year.", "contents": "Incidence of uveal malignant melanoma in the resident population of Rochester and Olmsted County, Minnesota. Uveal malignant melanomas were diagnosed in 15 patients in the resident population of Rochester and Olmsted County, Minnesota, from 1935 through 1974. There were five males and ten females. In this well-defined community, the annual incidence of uveal malignant melanoma for the 40-year period was calculated to be seven per million per year. The incidence in the resident population under age 50 years was three per million, whereas for those age 50 years or older, it increased to 21 per million per year.", "PMID": 443334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6061", "title": "Ocular manifestations of the 1976 rubella epidemic in Japan.", "content": "Of 79 cases of rubella during the 1976--1977 rubella epidemic in Japan, 56 (70.9%) had mild conjunctivitis. Six (7.6%) showed epithelial keratitis, but the epidemically estimated incidence of keratitis was about 2% (two cases with rubella keratitis per 75 cases of rubella). No evidence of disease of the anterior chamber or the fundus was observed. Characteristic features of keratitis in juvenile rubella were fine punctate epithelial opacities mainly disseminated in the central area of the cornea. The punctate lesions were about 0.1 mm in diameter on an average, but varied in number from a few to about 100. In many cases, keratitis developed about one week after skin rash and disappeared within one week with no sequelae.", "contents": "Ocular manifestations of the 1976 rubella epidemic in Japan. Of 79 cases of rubella during the 1976--1977 rubella epidemic in Japan, 56 (70.9%) had mild conjunctivitis. Six (7.6%) showed epithelial keratitis, but the epidemically estimated incidence of keratitis was about 2% (two cases with rubella keratitis per 75 cases of rubella). No evidence of disease of the anterior chamber or the fundus was observed. Characteristic features of keratitis in juvenile rubella were fine punctate epithelial opacities mainly disseminated in the central area of the cornea. The punctate lesions were about 0.1 mm in diameter on an average, but varied in number from a few to about 100. In many cases, keratitis developed about one week after skin rash and disappeared within one week with no sequelae.", "PMID": 443335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6062", "title": "Preretinal arterial loops and retinal arterial occlusion.", "content": "A 19-year-old man had bilateral congenital preretinal arterial loops emerging from the optic disk into the vitreous cavity. The loop in the right eye was associated with an inferior papillary arterial occlusion. Extensive examination to determine a systemic cause of the occlusion was negative; twisting or kinking of the loop may have had a role. The major arterial blood supply in each eye was cilioretinal in origin and in the left eye, the inferior preretinal arterial loop supplied blood to both the retina and the choroid. In three previous cases and our case of preretinal arterial loops associated with branch retinal arterial occlusion, none had emboli or associated systemic factors. All involved solely arterial supply to the inferior retina. The ages of three of the four patients ranged from 19 to 22 years.", "contents": "Preretinal arterial loops and retinal arterial occlusion. A 19-year-old man had bilateral congenital preretinal arterial loops emerging from the optic disk into the vitreous cavity. The loop in the right eye was associated with an inferior papillary arterial occlusion. Extensive examination to determine a systemic cause of the occlusion was negative; twisting or kinking of the loop may have had a role. The major arterial blood supply in each eye was cilioretinal in origin and in the left eye, the inferior preretinal arterial loop supplied blood to both the retina and the choroid. In three previous cases and our case of preretinal arterial loops associated with branch retinal arterial occlusion, none had emboli or associated systemic factors. All involved solely arterial supply to the inferior retina. The ages of three of the four patients ranged from 19 to 22 years.", "PMID": 443336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6063", "title": "The effect of prolonged indirect ophthalmoscopy on the human eye.", "content": "In an experiment designed to simulate an excessively prolonged clinical examination, seven human eyes were exposed to light focused through a 20-diopter, aspheric condensing lens for 30 to 45 minutes. Three eyes contained primary malignant tumors of the choroid and were enucleated 1 1/2 to 4 1/2 days after light exposure. Follow-up data on four blind eyes with clear media were evaluated 15 to 36 months after light exposure. Concentrated prolonged light exposure used in this experiment caused grossly visible progressive corneal edema, along with significant discomfort to the patient. Even with light exposures sufficient to cause these complications of the anterior segment, retinal injury was recognizable only with electron microscopy and was characterized by irregular bending and twisting of the outer segments of the photoreceptors, changes that are considered reversible in nonhuman primate studies. Intermediate to long-term follow-up of 15 to 36 months after light exposure to blind eyes failed to reveal lens changes or delayed light-induced degenerative changes in the retina recognizable by ophthalmoscopy, fundus biomicroscopy, or color and fluorescein fundus photography.", "contents": "The effect of prolonged indirect ophthalmoscopy on the human eye. In an experiment designed to simulate an excessively prolonged clinical examination, seven human eyes were exposed to light focused through a 20-diopter, aspheric condensing lens for 30 to 45 minutes. Three eyes contained primary malignant tumors of the choroid and were enucleated 1 1/2 to 4 1/2 days after light exposure. Follow-up data on four blind eyes with clear media were evaluated 15 to 36 months after light exposure. Concentrated prolonged light exposure used in this experiment caused grossly visible progressive corneal edema, along with significant discomfort to the patient. Even with light exposures sufficient to cause these complications of the anterior segment, retinal injury was recognizable only with electron microscopy and was characterized by irregular bending and twisting of the outer segments of the photoreceptors, changes that are considered reversible in nonhuman primate studies. Intermediate to long-term follow-up of 15 to 36 months after light exposure to blind eyes failed to reveal lens changes or delayed light-induced degenerative changes in the retina recognizable by ophthalmoscopy, fundus biomicroscopy, or color and fluorescein fundus photography.", "PMID": 443337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6064", "title": "Comparative evaluation of current ophthalmodynamometers.", "content": "Seventy-five patients under 40 years of age with no history of ocular, cardiovascular, or cerebrovascular disease were examined with four commonly used ophthalmodynamometers. There was a significant difference in the absolute values measured with each instrument and the ophthalmic to brachial artery pressure ratio. The standard deviations were comparable between 8.1 and 10.2%. The absolute value of the average percent difference between the right and the left eye ranged from 3.6% with the Galin unit to 6.7% with the Sisler unit. Limits of +/- 15% for ophthalmic artery to brachial artery pressure ratio and 10% for right to left pressure difference should be used for 95% confidence levels. There was a small but definite correlation between the ocular coefficient of rigidity and pressure differences between direct and indirect instruments.", "contents": "Comparative evaluation of current ophthalmodynamometers. Seventy-five patients under 40 years of age with no history of ocular, cardiovascular, or cerebrovascular disease were examined with four commonly used ophthalmodynamometers. There was a significant difference in the absolute values measured with each instrument and the ophthalmic to brachial artery pressure ratio. The standard deviations were comparable between 8.1 and 10.2%. The absolute value of the average percent difference between the right and the left eye ranged from 3.6% with the Galin unit to 6.7% with the Sisler unit. Limits of +/- 15% for ophthalmic artery to brachial artery pressure ratio and 10% for right to left pressure difference should be used for 95% confidence levels. There was a small but definite correlation between the ocular coefficient of rigidity and pressure differences between direct and indirect instruments.", "PMID": 443338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6065", "title": "Postlenticular membrane associated with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome.", "content": "A 6-day-old boy with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome developed bilateral cataracts, posterior synechiae, and a dense postlenticular membrane. No other signs of inflammation were noted that could account for the development of either the posterior synechiae or membrane. To our knowledge, this is the first published report of such an associated membrane.", "contents": "Postlenticular membrane associated with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. A 6-day-old boy with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome developed bilateral cataracts, posterior synechiae, and a dense postlenticular membrane. No other signs of inflammation were noted that could account for the development of either the posterior synechiae or membrane. To our knowledge, this is the first published report of such an associated membrane.", "PMID": 443339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6066", "title": "Cryptococcal meningitis and internal ophthalmoplegia.", "content": "A 17-year old girl received prednisone and azathioprine for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. She developed a fever and hallucinations 18 months later; cryptococcal meningitis was diagnosed. An internal ophthalmoplegia with loss of accommodation and dilation of the pupils developed together with bilateral lateral rectus palsy. Treatment with intravenous amphotericin resulted in disappearance of papilledema, muscle palsy, and internal ophthalmoplegia. We believe that the internal ophthalmoplegia was secondary to involvement of the accommodative and pupillary fibers of both third nerves at the base of the brain.", "contents": "Cryptococcal meningitis and internal ophthalmoplegia. A 17-year old girl received prednisone and azathioprine for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. She developed a fever and hallucinations 18 months later; cryptococcal meningitis was diagnosed. An internal ophthalmoplegia with loss of accommodation and dilation of the pupils developed together with bilateral lateral rectus palsy. Treatment with intravenous amphotericin resulted in disappearance of papilledema, muscle palsy, and internal ophthalmoplegia. We believe that the internal ophthalmoplegia was secondary to involvement of the accommodative and pupillary fibers of both third nerves at the base of the brain.", "PMID": 443340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6067", "title": "Polypoid sinusitis mimicking orbital malignancy.", "content": "A 15-year-old boy developed a rapidly progressive exophthalmos of 6 mm within two months. Radiologic evidence showed bony erosion, a palpable firm mass in the right upper eyelid, and mass blocking the right nares. This tumor was found to be polypoid sinusitis emanating through the lamina papyracea.", "contents": "Polypoid sinusitis mimicking orbital malignancy. A 15-year-old boy developed a rapidly progressive exophthalmos of 6 mm within two months. Radiologic evidence showed bony erosion, a palpable firm mass in the right upper eyelid, and mass blocking the right nares. This tumor was found to be polypoid sinusitis emanating through the lamina papyracea.", "PMID": 443341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6068", "title": "Acute ocular leukemia.", "content": "A 71-year-old woman had a history of recent weight loss and bilateral decreased visual acuity, bilateral serous detachment, and mental depression. Fluorescein angiograms showed a myriad of retinal pigment epithelial leakage points. Despite extensive evaluation, the cause of her weight loss and ocular process remained uncertain until her death, when postmortem examination revealed leukemia infiltrates of many organs, including the choroid. After death, we correlated the clinical signs and fluorescein angiograms with the histopathologic findings. This case shows that choroidal disease may be a symptom of undetected leukemia.", "contents": "Acute ocular leukemia. A 71-year-old woman had a history of recent weight loss and bilateral decreased visual acuity, bilateral serous detachment, and mental depression. Fluorescein angiograms showed a myriad of retinal pigment epithelial leakage points. Despite extensive evaluation, the cause of her weight loss and ocular process remained uncertain until her death, when postmortem examination revealed leukemia infiltrates of many organs, including the choroid. After death, we correlated the clinical signs and fluorescein angiograms with the histopathologic findings. This case shows that choroidal disease may be a symptom of undetected leukemia.", "PMID": 443342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6069", "title": "Comparison of therapeutic routes in experimental Pseudomonas keratitis.", "content": "We determined the efficacy of tobramycin administered by topical, intramuscular, and subconjunctival routes in guinea pigs and rabbits with experimental Pseudomonas keratitis. The topical route of administration was consistently more effective than either subconjunctival or intramuscular routes. Subconjunctival injection of antibiotic did not enhance the effectiveness of topical therapy in either guinea pigs or rabbits. Intramuscular tobramycin was more effective than saline in guinea pigs with keratitis but not in rabbits with keratitis.", "contents": "Comparison of therapeutic routes in experimental Pseudomonas keratitis. We determined the efficacy of tobramycin administered by topical, intramuscular, and subconjunctival routes in guinea pigs and rabbits with experimental Pseudomonas keratitis. The topical route of administration was consistently more effective than either subconjunctival or intramuscular routes. Subconjunctival injection of antibiotic did not enhance the effectiveness of topical therapy in either guinea pigs or rabbits. Intramuscular tobramycin was more effective than saline in guinea pigs with keratitis but not in rabbits with keratitis.", "PMID": 443343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6070", "title": "Pediatric ocular photography platform.", "content": "We designed a rigid support platform to facilitate ocular photography of infants or small animals. The platform is versatile because it is compatible with either the Zeiss fundus camera or Zeiss Photo Slit Lamp.", "contents": "Pediatric ocular photography platform. We designed a rigid support platform to facilitate ocular photography of infants or small animals. The platform is versatile because it is compatible with either the Zeiss fundus camera or Zeiss Photo Slit Lamp.", "PMID": 443344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6071", "title": "Bacillus licheniformis corneal ulcer.", "content": "A 46-year-old woman developed a corneal ulcer after an injury to the right eye. Cultures were positive for Bacillus licheniformis. Although resistant to some antibiotics, the corneal ulcer resolved after treatment with topical, subconjunctival, and intramuscular gentamicin sulfate.", "contents": "Bacillus licheniformis corneal ulcer. A 46-year-old woman developed a corneal ulcer after an injury to the right eye. Cultures were positive for Bacillus licheniformis. Although resistant to some antibiotics, the corneal ulcer resolved after treatment with topical, subconjunctival, and intramuscular gentamicin sulfate.", "PMID": 443345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6072", "title": "Biconcave contact lens for vitreous surgery.", "content": "I designed a biconcave floating contact lens used for trans pars plana vitreous surgery. The lens uses the prismatic power of strong optical lenses to bring into view portions of the fundus that otherwise would be difficult to see.", "contents": "Biconcave contact lens for vitreous surgery. I designed a biconcave floating contact lens used for trans pars plana vitreous surgery. The lens uses the prismatic power of strong optical lenses to bring into view portions of the fundus that otherwise would be difficult to see.", "PMID": 443346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6073", "title": "Scleral spreading forceps for drainage of subretinal fluid.", "content": "To faciliate drainage of subretinal fluid I modified cross-action forceps so that the 10-mm angulated tip had eight semicircular opposed teeth each 1 mm long.", "contents": "Scleral spreading forceps for drainage of subretinal fluid. To faciliate drainage of subretinal fluid I modified cross-action forceps so that the 10-mm angulated tip had eight semicircular opposed teeth each 1 mm long.", "PMID": 443347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6074", "title": "Wear striation direction on primate teeth: a scanning electron microscope examination.", "content": "Two experimental methods were used to produce wear striations in one direction on unworn teeth. These include: (1) sliding 22 American Indian (Juntunen site, Michigan; Late Woodland) newly erupted incisors, by hand, across a flat grass surface covered with fine loose sand; and (2) using a unidirectional motor driven mechanical wear machine to draw 56 modern human dental extractions across a flat glass surface covered with silicon carbide powder of different grit sizes. A scanning electron microscope examination of individual wear striation morphology indicates that these wear striations begin with broad pits and have extending grooves that become narrower; characteristics that indicate the motion of wear. Patterns of wear striations on the worn dentitions of American Indians (Juntunen site) and the paleocene primate Phenacolemur pagei show similar characteristics and correspond to the buccal phase of mastication when the mandible is drawn upward, forward and slightly medially into centric occlusion. The data provided by this study can be used to test competing hypotheses concerning the direction of mandibular movement during mastication and food preparation.", "contents": "Wear striation direction on primate teeth: a scanning electron microscope examination. Two experimental methods were used to produce wear striations in one direction on unworn teeth. These include: (1) sliding 22 American Indian (Juntunen site, Michigan; Late Woodland) newly erupted incisors, by hand, across a flat grass surface covered with fine loose sand; and (2) using a unidirectional motor driven mechanical wear machine to draw 56 modern human dental extractions across a flat glass surface covered with silicon carbide powder of different grit sizes. A scanning electron microscope examination of individual wear striation morphology indicates that these wear striations begin with broad pits and have extending grooves that become narrower; characteristics that indicate the motion of wear. Patterns of wear striations on the worn dentitions of American Indians (Juntunen site) and the paleocene primate Phenacolemur pagei show similar characteristics and correspond to the buccal phase of mastication when the mandible is drawn upward, forward and slightly medially into centric occlusion. The data provided by this study can be used to test competing hypotheses concerning the direction of mandibular movement during mastication and food preparation.", "PMID": 443353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6075", "title": "Family studies of tooth size factors in the permanent dentition.", "content": "Correlations between dimensions of the permanent teeth in Australian Aboriginals were studied by factor analysis to disclose the main sources of shared variability. Findings indicated that in both males and females most of the common variability in the tooth dimensions could be accounted for by factors representing mesiodistal size of anterior teeth, buccolingual size of anterior teeth, generalized size of the premolars and generalized size of the molars. Factor scores derived from the analysis were used to calculate intraclass correlations among brothers and among sisters. These correlations tended to be higher for the factors contributing most to the common variability indicating that the factors might represent fields under direct genetic control. There was no trend for intraclass correlations among siblings derived from multivariate scores to be consistently higher than those based on observed tooth dimensions. The main advantage to the user of factor analysis is the ability to interpret associations between interrelated variables more objectively than is possible by conventional correlation methods.", "contents": "Family studies of tooth size factors in the permanent dentition. Correlations between dimensions of the permanent teeth in Australian Aboriginals were studied by factor analysis to disclose the main sources of shared variability. Findings indicated that in both males and females most of the common variability in the tooth dimensions could be accounted for by factors representing mesiodistal size of anterior teeth, buccolingual size of anterior teeth, generalized size of the premolars and generalized size of the molars. Factor scores derived from the analysis were used to calculate intraclass correlations among brothers and among sisters. These correlations tended to be higher for the factors contributing most to the common variability indicating that the factors might represent fields under direct genetic control. There was no trend for intraclass correlations among siblings derived from multivariate scores to be consistently higher than those based on observed tooth dimensions. The main advantage to the user of factor analysis is the ability to interpret associations between interrelated variables more objectively than is possible by conventional correlation methods.", "PMID": 443354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6076", "title": "Relationships between non-metric skeletal traits and cranial size and shape.", "content": "A long-standing controversy exists about the comparative utility of metric and non-metric traits as biological indicators in population studies. We hypothesize that the underlying scale which determines the presence or absence of a cranial non-metric trait is an expression of general and/or local size variation in the cranium. Therefore metric and non-metric traits will share a common developmental determination. The hypothesis implies that the underlying scale of a non-metric trait will be correlated with measures of cranial size and shape. Forty-eight cranial metric and twenty-five cranial non-metric traits were scored on the left side of adult male crania from four North American Indian populations. New threshold traits were generated for each non-metric trait by dichotomizing discriminant scores produced by discriminant function analysis. The discriminant analysis was performed using metric traits to discriminate between groups formed by non-metric trait presence or absence. Every non-metric trait tested was significantly correlated with its threshold trait in at least one population. The correlations were of moderate to high levels depending on the trait and population sample studied. This implies that metric and non-metric traits share a moderate to high degree of developmental determination. The cause of these correlations may lie in the common effects that growth and development of the soft tissue and functional spaces of the cranium exert on both metric and non-metric traits.", "contents": "Relationships between non-metric skeletal traits and cranial size and shape. A long-standing controversy exists about the comparative utility of metric and non-metric traits as biological indicators in population studies. We hypothesize that the underlying scale which determines the presence or absence of a cranial non-metric trait is an expression of general and/or local size variation in the cranium. Therefore metric and non-metric traits will share a common developmental determination. The hypothesis implies that the underlying scale of a non-metric trait will be correlated with measures of cranial size and shape. Forty-eight cranial metric and twenty-five cranial non-metric traits were scored on the left side of adult male crania from four North American Indian populations. New threshold traits were generated for each non-metric trait by dichotomizing discriminant scores produced by discriminant function analysis. The discriminant analysis was performed using metric traits to discriminate between groups formed by non-metric trait presence or absence. Every non-metric trait tested was significantly correlated with its threshold trait in at least one population. The correlations were of moderate to high levels depending on the trait and population sample studied. This implies that metric and non-metric traits share a moderate to high degree of developmental determination. The cause of these correlations may lie in the common effects that growth and development of the soft tissue and functional spaces of the cranium exert on both metric and non-metric traits.", "PMID": 443355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6077", "title": "A multivariate analysis of fatness and relative fat patterning.", "content": "Skinfold measurements (triceps, subscapular, suprailiac and medial calf) in four samples (376 boys, 352 girs, 338 men and 380 women from rural Colombia) were subjected to principal components analysis to identify components of obesity and relative fat patterning. Three components emerged which were similar in the four samples: a first component of fatness explaining 70-80% of the variance and two fat pattern components each explaining 10-15% of the variance: trunk-extremity and upper-lower body. Fatness and the trunk-extremity pattern components changed with age in children (7-12 years), but none of the components changed with age in adults (25-60+). The fatter tended to be more patterned in both age groups. Canonical correlation analysis revealed that socioeconomic status was more related to fatness than to patterning. With the exception of brothers, all first degree relatives (sib, parent-off-spring) and spouses were correlated in fatness. Some of the correlations between relatives--usually sibs, but not spouses--were also significant for the pattern components, suggesting a genetic basis for the known stability of this characteristic (Garn, '55a). Principal components analysis is a useful multivariate alternative for quantitative studies of anthropometric patterning.", "contents": "A multivariate analysis of fatness and relative fat patterning. Skinfold measurements (triceps, subscapular, suprailiac and medial calf) in four samples (376 boys, 352 girs, 338 men and 380 women from rural Colombia) were subjected to principal components analysis to identify components of obesity and relative fat patterning. Three components emerged which were similar in the four samples: a first component of fatness explaining 70-80% of the variance and two fat pattern components each explaining 10-15% of the variance: trunk-extremity and upper-lower body. Fatness and the trunk-extremity pattern components changed with age in children (7-12 years), but none of the components changed with age in adults (25-60+). The fatter tended to be more patterned in both age groups. Canonical correlation analysis revealed that socioeconomic status was more related to fatness than to patterning. With the exception of brothers, all first degree relatives (sib, parent-off-spring) and spouses were correlated in fatness. Some of the correlations between relatives--usually sibs, but not spouses--were also significant for the pattern components, suggesting a genetic basis for the known stability of this characteristic (Garn, '55a). Principal components analysis is a useful multivariate alternative for quantitative studies of anthropometric patterning.", "PMID": 443356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6078", "title": "Comparative and functional morphology of hominoid fingers.", "content": "Comparisons of hominoid metacarpals and phalanges reveal differences, many of which are closely linked to locomotor hand postures. The African apes display features of the metacarpals and phalanges which distinguish them from the other Hominoidea. These features are most evident in digits III and IV. The orangutan hand is demonstrably less well adapted to knuckle-walking and is distinctive in its adaptation to power and hook grasping of vertical and horizontal supports, respectively. Orangutan fingers possess a \"double-locking\" mechanism (Napier, '60), and a slight ulnad shift in the axis of the hand which results in lengthened phalanges of ray IV. Hylobatid apes are more like orangutans in their finger morphology than any of the other Hominoidea, but exhibit unique features of their own. These include elongate phalanges of fingers II-V. Human metacarpals II-V form two sets composed of II-III, and IV-V. The heads of both metacarpals II and III are characterized by axial torsion. This reflects the enhanced manipulatory role of the third finger in humans. Human distal phalanges are unique in the development of pronounced apical tufts. Multivariate analysis of metacarpal III and proximal III yields variables that array the extant apes along an arboreal-terrestrial axis, from hylobatid apes to male gorillas. The positions of taxa on this discriminant concur with observations on the locomotion of free-ranging apes.", "contents": "Comparative and functional morphology of hominoid fingers. Comparisons of hominoid metacarpals and phalanges reveal differences, many of which are closely linked to locomotor hand postures. The African apes display features of the metacarpals and phalanges which distinguish them from the other Hominoidea. These features are most evident in digits III and IV. The orangutan hand is demonstrably less well adapted to knuckle-walking and is distinctive in its adaptation to power and hook grasping of vertical and horizontal supports, respectively. Orangutan fingers possess a \"double-locking\" mechanism (Napier, '60), and a slight ulnad shift in the axis of the hand which results in lengthened phalanges of ray IV. Hylobatid apes are more like orangutans in their finger morphology than any of the other Hominoidea, but exhibit unique features of their own. These include elongate phalanges of fingers II-V. Human metacarpals II-V form two sets composed of II-III, and IV-V. The heads of both metacarpals II and III are characterized by axial torsion. This reflects the enhanced manipulatory role of the third finger in humans. Human distal phalanges are unique in the development of pronounced apical tufts. Multivariate analysis of metacarpal III and proximal III yields variables that array the extant apes along an arboreal-terrestrial axis, from hylobatid apes to male gorillas. The positions of taxa on this discriminant concur with observations on the locomotion of free-ranging apes.", "PMID": 443358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6079", "title": "Population genetic data on properdin factor B (Bf) in northern Germany.", "content": "Properdin factor B phenotypes were determined in 1,112 unrelated individuals and in 151 mother/child combinations from Northern Germany. Gene frequencies were : F = 0.1960, S= 0.7905, F1 = 0.0072, S1 = 0.0063. The data of the mother/child combinations are in full accordance with the postulated gene model.", "contents": "Population genetic data on properdin factor B (Bf) in northern Germany. Properdin factor B phenotypes were determined in 1,112 unrelated individuals and in 151 mother/child combinations from Northern Germany. Gene frequencies were : F = 0.1960, S= 0.7905, F1 = 0.0072, S1 = 0.0063. The data of the mother/child combinations are in full accordance with the postulated gene model.", "PMID": 443359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6080", "title": "Digital dermatoglyphics of 107 Bengalis.", "content": "I analyzed the finger prints of 59 male and 48 female unrelated Bengalis in a rehabilitation camp of Dacca, Bangladesh. The most common pattern type in the Bengalis was the ulnar loop (53%), then whorls (40%); arches (5%) and radial loops (2%) were the least common. Radial loops occurred most frequently on the index fingers. I have shown the arch/whorl, whorl/loop, and pattern intensity indices, and I have presented ridge counts by individual digits and by total digital ridge count. Digital dermatoglyphics in the male Bangladeshis were similar to previous findings in male Brahmins of Bengal. However, there were more whorls and arches, fewer loops, and a higher mean total digital ridge count in the female Bangladeshis than in female Brahmins.", "contents": "Digital dermatoglyphics of 107 Bengalis. I analyzed the finger prints of 59 male and 48 female unrelated Bengalis in a rehabilitation camp of Dacca, Bangladesh. The most common pattern type in the Bengalis was the ulnar loop (53%), then whorls (40%); arches (5%) and radial loops (2%) were the least common. Radial loops occurred most frequently on the index fingers. I have shown the arch/whorl, whorl/loop, and pattern intensity indices, and I have presented ridge counts by individual digits and by total digital ridge count. Digital dermatoglyphics in the male Bangladeshis were similar to previous findings in male Brahmins of Bengal. However, there were more whorls and arches, fewer loops, and a higher mean total digital ridge count in the female Bangladeshis than in female Brahmins.", "PMID": 443360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6081", "title": "The interaction of stressors in the induction of increased levels of fluctuating asymmetry in the laboratory rat.", "content": "Recent studies on fluctuating dental asymmetry have isolated single stressors as causative agents. Since most stressors are composite in nature, the present study was designed to determine the effects of the interaction of stressors in the induction of fluctuating dental asymmetry. Pregnant rats were assigned to one of six treatment groups and stressed with various combinations of heat, cold, noise and protein deprivation. The levels of fluctuating dental asymmetry were assessed and it was found that all protocols produced higher levels of asymmetry than found for control animals. Noise and reduced protein exhibited an additive effect and the interaction of stressors produced a reduction in litter size. Suggestions were offered for further research in this expanding field.", "contents": "The interaction of stressors in the induction of increased levels of fluctuating asymmetry in the laboratory rat. Recent studies on fluctuating dental asymmetry have isolated single stressors as causative agents. Since most stressors are composite in nature, the present study was designed to determine the effects of the interaction of stressors in the induction of fluctuating dental asymmetry. Pregnant rats were assigned to one of six treatment groups and stressed with various combinations of heat, cold, noise and protein deprivation. The levels of fluctuating dental asymmetry were assessed and it was found that all protocols produced higher levels of asymmetry than found for control animals. Noise and reduced protein exhibited an additive effect and the interaction of stressors produced a reduction in litter size. Suggestions were offered for further research in this expanding field.", "PMID": 443361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6082", "title": "Isometric endurance in fast and slow muscles in the cat.", "content": "By use of a method of sequential stimulation described previously, the ability to sustain tensions of 3--100% of the initial strength (maximum isometric tension that could be developed in the fresh muscle) to fatigue (endurance) was assessed in the soleus (slow-twitch), medial gastrocnemius (mixed, fast-twitch), and plantaris (mainly fast-twitch) muscles. For all fractions of the initial strength the endurance was longest in soleus and shortest in plantaris. However, although plantaris fatigued at any tension examined, soleus could maintain a tension of up to 30% of its initial strength indefinitely with no sign of fatigue. Part of the difference in endurance between these two muscles could be accounted for in terms of blood flow because arterial occlusion sharply reduced the endurance of soleus but had only a small effect on endurance in plantaris. However, even with an occluded circulation, soleus still had substantially longer endurance than either medial gastrocnemius or plantaris. The origin of fatigue in any of the three muscles examined appeared to be in the muscle; there was no evidence of failure of transmission at the neuromuscular junction.", "contents": "Isometric endurance in fast and slow muscles in the cat. By use of a method of sequential stimulation described previously, the ability to sustain tensions of 3--100% of the initial strength (maximum isometric tension that could be developed in the fresh muscle) to fatigue (endurance) was assessed in the soleus (slow-twitch), medial gastrocnemius (mixed, fast-twitch), and plantaris (mainly fast-twitch) muscles. For all fractions of the initial strength the endurance was longest in soleus and shortest in plantaris. However, although plantaris fatigued at any tension examined, soleus could maintain a tension of up to 30% of its initial strength indefinitely with no sign of fatigue. Part of the difference in endurance between these two muscles could be accounted for in terms of blood flow because arterial occlusion sharply reduced the endurance of soleus but had only a small effect on endurance in plantaris. However, even with an occluded circulation, soleus still had substantially longer endurance than either medial gastrocnemius or plantaris. The origin of fatigue in any of the three muscles examined appeared to be in the muscle; there was no evidence of failure of transmission at the neuromuscular junction.", "PMID": 443362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6083", "title": "Effect of microvibration on activity of ureteral and portal smooth muscles.", "content": "Spontaneous contractions were elicited by microvibrations (1--80 Hz, 50--400 micron) imposed upon quiescent ureter and portal venous smooth muscles of dogs. The microvibrations increased the rate of spontaneous contractions. A microvibration of larger amplitude gave rise to a more profound increase at each frequency. The acceleration was often accompanied by a reduction in contractile force. The positive chronotropic effect was enhanced by increases in frequency from 20 to 40 Hz and not affected by administration of autonomic blocking agents and tetrodotoxin, but disappeared in a Ca-free environment and reappeared on addition of Ba2+. the simulating action of microvibration was almost proportional to external Ca2+ concentrations ranging from 2.2 to 6.2 mM. The microvibrations were able to elicit spontaneous activity in the preparation, which had been made quiescent by administration of Mn2+. These findings suggested that the positive chronotropic effect may be closely related to an increased Ca2+ influx through the membrane of smooth muscle. Active tension in the ureter in a state of contracture was depressed by imposed microvibrations.", "contents": "Effect of microvibration on activity of ureteral and portal smooth muscles. Spontaneous contractions were elicited by microvibrations (1--80 Hz, 50--400 micron) imposed upon quiescent ureter and portal venous smooth muscles of dogs. The microvibrations increased the rate of spontaneous contractions. A microvibration of larger amplitude gave rise to a more profound increase at each frequency. The acceleration was often accompanied by a reduction in contractile force. The positive chronotropic effect was enhanced by increases in frequency from 20 to 40 Hz and not affected by administration of autonomic blocking agents and tetrodotoxin, but disappeared in a Ca-free environment and reappeared on addition of Ba2+. the simulating action of microvibration was almost proportional to external Ca2+ concentrations ranging from 2.2 to 6.2 mM. The microvibrations were able to elicit spontaneous activity in the preparation, which had been made quiescent by administration of Mn2+. These findings suggested that the positive chronotropic effect may be closely related to an increased Ca2+ influx through the membrane of smooth muscle. Active tension in the ureter in a state of contracture was depressed by imposed microvibrations.", "PMID": 443363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6084", "title": "Determination of unidirectional fluxes of phosphate across plasma membrane in isolated perfused rat liver.", "content": "In livers labeled with 32P by intraperitoneal injection 18 h before perfusion the unidirectional efflux of inorganic phosphate (Pi) was a linear function of the concentration of Pi in the intracellular exchangeable pool of Pi (range, 0--1 mumol/g liver). Calculations of the efflux were based on determination of the specific radioactivity of Pi in the intracellular exchangeable pool of Pi by a new method. Zero efflux was found at biopsy concentrations of Pi of about 1.8 mumol/g liver. The influx of Pi was calculated from the efflux and the net uptake of Pi; it was found to be related to the extracellular concentration of Pi in a fashion that was approximately linear. An increase in the concentration of Pi in the input medium gave rise to an increased influx and, with a time delay, also to a gradually increasing efflux. The increased efflux could be explained as a consequence of an increased intracellular concentration of exchangeable Pi.", "contents": "Determination of unidirectional fluxes of phosphate across plasma membrane in isolated perfused rat liver. In livers labeled with 32P by intraperitoneal injection 18 h before perfusion the unidirectional efflux of inorganic phosphate (Pi) was a linear function of the concentration of Pi in the intracellular exchangeable pool of Pi (range, 0--1 mumol/g liver). Calculations of the efflux were based on determination of the specific radioactivity of Pi in the intracellular exchangeable pool of Pi by a new method. Zero efflux was found at biopsy concentrations of Pi of about 1.8 mumol/g liver. The influx of Pi was calculated from the efflux and the net uptake of Pi; it was found to be related to the extracellular concentration of Pi in a fashion that was approximately linear. An increase in the concentration of Pi in the input medium gave rise to an increased influx and, with a time delay, also to a gradually increasing efflux. The increased efflux could be explained as a consequence of an increased intracellular concentration of exchangeable Pi.", "PMID": 443364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6085", "title": "Effect of ammonium chloride on osmotic behavior of red cells in nonelectrolytes.", "content": "Ammonium chloride, demonstrated to be a permeating electrolyte for human red cells in water or sodium chloride solutions, has been shown to act as if it contributes osmotic support in the presence of sucrose. The additional protection provided by ammonium chloride against hemolysis in hypotonic sucrose was found to approximate the milliosmolar concentration of the added salt. In view of previous suggestions that potassium loss was responsible for the increased protection observed with hypotonic nonelectrolyte alone, it was considered reasonable that the further protection afforded by ammonium chloride might reflect a comparable mechanism. Such a relationship was not observed. When added to isosmotic sucrose, ammonium chloride was found to be as effective as sodium chloride in preventing rather than augmenting potassium loss, in accord with the observations of others. Under hypotonic conditions, however, the addition of ammonium chloride had no effect on potassium loss beyond that observed in hypotonic sucrose alone. Equivalent additions of sodium chloride eliminated the potassium loss entirely. It was concluded that sucrose, and possibly other nonelectrolytes, acted to modify the red cell's permeability to ammonium chloride. It is this conversion of ammonium chloride to an impermeant molecule that is considered to be responsible for the observed osmotic support as well as for the markedly disparate findings in sodium chloride solutions.", "contents": "Effect of ammonium chloride on osmotic behavior of red cells in nonelectrolytes. Ammonium chloride, demonstrated to be a permeating electrolyte for human red cells in water or sodium chloride solutions, has been shown to act as if it contributes osmotic support in the presence of sucrose. The additional protection provided by ammonium chloride against hemolysis in hypotonic sucrose was found to approximate the milliosmolar concentration of the added salt. In view of previous suggestions that potassium loss was responsible for the increased protection observed with hypotonic nonelectrolyte alone, it was considered reasonable that the further protection afforded by ammonium chloride might reflect a comparable mechanism. Such a relationship was not observed. When added to isosmotic sucrose, ammonium chloride was found to be as effective as sodium chloride in preventing rather than augmenting potassium loss, in accord with the observations of others. Under hypotonic conditions, however, the addition of ammonium chloride had no effect on potassium loss beyond that observed in hypotonic sucrose alone. Equivalent additions of sodium chloride eliminated the potassium loss entirely. It was concluded that sucrose, and possibly other nonelectrolytes, acted to modify the red cell's permeability to ammonium chloride. It is this conversion of ammonium chloride to an impermeant molecule that is considered to be responsible for the observed osmotic support as well as for the markedly disparate findings in sodium chloride solutions.", "PMID": 443365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6086", "title": "Blood:bone disequilibrium. III. Linkage between cell energetics and Ca fluxes.", "content": "Specially designed Ussing chambers were used for the quantitation of fluxes of Ca2+ and lactate ions to and from viable calvaria taken from 2- to 3-day-old rat pups and young adult mice. The latter in vitro support Ca2+ levels comparable to plasma levels in vivo. The effects of various metabolic inhibitors and parathyroid hormone were studied. The results support previous findings that Ca influx into bone is a passive concentration-dependent process not significantly affected by alterations in the energy status of the bone cells. In large measure, the efflux from bone also appears to be passive. However, significant alterations in the calcium levels supported by efflux from bone were observed as acute effects of metabolic inhibitors. Part of the metabolically derived efflux may be attributed to acid production (aerobic glycolysis). However, part must be ascribed to cellular activities not yet defined.", "contents": "Blood:bone disequilibrium. III. Linkage between cell energetics and Ca fluxes. Specially designed Ussing chambers were used for the quantitation of fluxes of Ca2+ and lactate ions to and from viable calvaria taken from 2- to 3-day-old rat pups and young adult mice. The latter in vitro support Ca2+ levels comparable to plasma levels in vivo. The effects of various metabolic inhibitors and parathyroid hormone were studied. The results support previous findings that Ca influx into bone is a passive concentration-dependent process not significantly affected by alterations in the energy status of the bone cells. In large measure, the efflux from bone also appears to be passive. However, significant alterations in the calcium levels supported by efflux from bone were observed as acute effects of metabolic inhibitors. Part of the metabolically derived efflux may be attributed to acid production (aerobic glycolysis). However, part must be ascribed to cellular activities not yet defined.", "PMID": 443366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6087", "title": "Uptake and metabolism of [3H]norepinephrine in uterine nerves of pregnant guinea pig.", "content": "Myometrial tissue slices from virgin, pregnant (uni- or bilateral pregnancy), and puerperal animals were incubated in media containing [3H]norepinephrine ([3H]NE), and the neuronal and extraneuronal uptake was estimated. The metabolic fate of [3H]NE was elucidated by the chromatographic separation of [3H]NE, [3H]normetanephrine and 3H-labeled acid metabolites. An early and extensive reduction in both total and neuronal uptakes occurred in the myometrial regions surrounding the fetuses, and at term pregnancy no neuronal [3H]NE uptake at all was found in tissue slices from the fetus-containing horns. Concomitantly, the fraction of unchanged [3H]NE decreased with a corresponding increment in its metabolites. Similar changes, though less extensive, also occurred in the empty horn in unilateral pregnancy. The total amount of neuronal uptake in the cervix seemed unchanged compared to virgin animals. Earlier and present data support the following suggestion that in uterine horns harboring fetuses, an extensive axonal degeneration occurs; in those devoid of fetuses (unilateral pregnancy), the nerve terminals are to a great extent structurally intact, but functionally damaged. Recovery of the pregnancy-induced impairment of the adrenergic nerve plexus is slow and incomplete.", "contents": "Uptake and metabolism of [3H]norepinephrine in uterine nerves of pregnant guinea pig. Myometrial tissue slices from virgin, pregnant (uni- or bilateral pregnancy), and puerperal animals were incubated in media containing [3H]norepinephrine ([3H]NE), and the neuronal and extraneuronal uptake was estimated. The metabolic fate of [3H]NE was elucidated by the chromatographic separation of [3H]NE, [3H]normetanephrine and 3H-labeled acid metabolites. An early and extensive reduction in both total and neuronal uptakes occurred in the myometrial regions surrounding the fetuses, and at term pregnancy no neuronal [3H]NE uptake at all was found in tissue slices from the fetus-containing horns. Concomitantly, the fraction of unchanged [3H]NE decreased with a corresponding increment in its metabolites. Similar changes, though less extensive, also occurred in the empty horn in unilateral pregnancy. The total amount of neuronal uptake in the cervix seemed unchanged compared to virgin animals. Earlier and present data support the following suggestion that in uterine horns harboring fetuses, an extensive axonal degeneration occurs; in those devoid of fetuses (unilateral pregnancy), the nerve terminals are to a great extent structurally intact, but functionally damaged. Recovery of the pregnancy-induced impairment of the adrenergic nerve plexus is slow and incomplete.", "PMID": 443367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6088", "title": "Nutritional and hormonal regulation of pyruvate metabolism in the liver.", "content": "The effect of fasting, glucose, and glucagon injection on pyruvate metabolism of rat liver mitochondria was studied. Fasting for 24 h caused a) a twofold increase in mitochondrial pyruvate uptake, b) fivefold increase in CO2 fixation, and c) no change in pyruvate decarboxylation. Injection of glucose to fasted rats 2 h prior to preparation suppressed by one-half the increase in mitochondrial pyruvate uptake and CO2 fixation and increased hepatic pyruvate content. Injection of glucagon together with glucose abolished the depression of pyruvate uptake by glucose but did not prevent the decrease in mitochondrial CO2 fixation or hepatic ketone content caused by glucose alone. The effects of insulin injection resembled that of glucose in decreasing hepatic ketone content, but differed by increasing pyruvate uptake without much change in CO2 fixation. It is concluded that the increase in gluconeogenesis induced by fasting is due to an increase in pyruvate uptake and carboxylation by hepatic mitochondria. The latter is due to the increased mobilization and oxidation of fatty acids induced by reciprocal changes in insulin and glucagon.", "contents": "Nutritional and hormonal regulation of pyruvate metabolism in the liver. The effect of fasting, glucose, and glucagon injection on pyruvate metabolism of rat liver mitochondria was studied. Fasting for 24 h caused a) a twofold increase in mitochondrial pyruvate uptake, b) fivefold increase in CO2 fixation, and c) no change in pyruvate decarboxylation. Injection of glucose to fasted rats 2 h prior to preparation suppressed by one-half the increase in mitochondrial pyruvate uptake and CO2 fixation and increased hepatic pyruvate content. Injection of glucagon together with glucose abolished the depression of pyruvate uptake by glucose but did not prevent the decrease in mitochondrial CO2 fixation or hepatic ketone content caused by glucose alone. The effects of insulin injection resembled that of glucose in decreasing hepatic ketone content, but differed by increasing pyruvate uptake without much change in CO2 fixation. It is concluded that the increase in gluconeogenesis induced by fasting is due to an increase in pyruvate uptake and carboxylation by hepatic mitochondria. The latter is due to the increased mobilization and oxidation of fatty acids induced by reciprocal changes in insulin and glucagon.", "PMID": 443369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6089", "title": "Developmental changes in thymidine kinase, DNA, and fat cellularity in Zucker rats.", "content": "Thymidine kinase activity and the pattern of DNA accretion in the genetically obese Zucker rat (fafa) were shown to develop in a manner fundamentally different from that of the lean rat. In normal lean Zucker rats, fat cell size and number, thymidine kinase activity, total DNA, and DNA in lipid-filled and nonlipid-filled tissue changed as previously reported for the normally growing lean Sprague-Dawley rat. In the epididymal depot of the developing obese rat, the progressive obesity is characterized by marked early enlargement of fat cell size, elevated thymidine kinase activity until 273 days of age, increased rate of total tissue DNA accretion until 182 days of age, and fat cell hyperplasia that becomes manifest after an apparent \"peak\" cell size is reached at 98 days of age.", "contents": "Developmental changes in thymidine kinase, DNA, and fat cellularity in Zucker rats. Thymidine kinase activity and the pattern of DNA accretion in the genetically obese Zucker rat (fafa) were shown to develop in a manner fundamentally different from that of the lean rat. In normal lean Zucker rats, fat cell size and number, thymidine kinase activity, total DNA, and DNA in lipid-filled and nonlipid-filled tissue changed as previously reported for the normally growing lean Sprague-Dawley rat. In the epididymal depot of the developing obese rat, the progressive obesity is characterized by marked early enlargement of fat cell size, elevated thymidine kinase activity until 273 days of age, increased rate of total tissue DNA accretion until 182 days of age, and fat cell hyperplasia that becomes manifest after an apparent \"peak\" cell size is reached at 98 days of age.", "PMID": 443370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6090", "title": "alpha-Ketoisocaproate stimulates branched-chain amino acid transaminase in kidney and muscle.", "content": "We have reported that branched-chain amino acid transaminase (BATase) activity of isolated rat kidney is stimulated by perfusion with alpha-ketoisocaproate (KL). This study examines the mechanism of this effect in kidney and documents that stimulation occurs in intact skeletal muscle. Increased activity was not attributable to synthesis of enzyme because it occurred in the presence of cycloheximide. The in vivo degradation rate of BATase estimated from sequential measurements of activity following intravenous cycloheximide was longer than 90 min, whereas during in vitro perfusion stimulation could be detected within 5 min. Incubation of supernatant from kidney homogenate with KL stimulated BATase; incubation with alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate (KI), alpha-ketoisovalerate (KV), leucine (leu), or isovaleryl CoA did not. Perfusion of rat hindquarter with KL increased muscle BATase activity; perfusion with acetoacetate, KI, KV, or leu did not. Again, cycloheximide studies indicated a direct effect of KL on muscle BATase. These findings suggest that alpha-ketoisocaproate can increase BATase activity and thus may be involved in regulation of its activity.", "contents": "alpha-Ketoisocaproate stimulates branched-chain amino acid transaminase in kidney and muscle. We have reported that branched-chain amino acid transaminase (BATase) activity of isolated rat kidney is stimulated by perfusion with alpha-ketoisocaproate (KL). This study examines the mechanism of this effect in kidney and documents that stimulation occurs in intact skeletal muscle. Increased activity was not attributable to synthesis of enzyme because it occurred in the presence of cycloheximide. The in vivo degradation rate of BATase estimated from sequential measurements of activity following intravenous cycloheximide was longer than 90 min, whereas during in vitro perfusion stimulation could be detected within 5 min. Incubation of supernatant from kidney homogenate with KL stimulated BATase; incubation with alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate (KI), alpha-ketoisovalerate (KV), leucine (leu), or isovaleryl CoA did not. Perfusion of rat hindquarter with KL increased muscle BATase activity; perfusion with acetoacetate, KI, KV, or leu did not. Again, cycloheximide studies indicated a direct effect of KL on muscle BATase. These findings suggest that alpha-ketoisocaproate can increase BATase activity and thus may be involved in regulation of its activity.", "PMID": 443371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6091", "title": "Insulin sensitivity of rat skeletal muscle: effects of starvation and aging.", "content": "The effects of starvation and of aging on the sensitivity of skeletal muscle to insulin were studied in the isolated perfused rat hindquarter preparation. As we have shown previously, starvation for 48 h had no effect on glucose uptake in hindquarters perfused with high levels of insulin (5 and 20 mU/ml). On the other hand, in the presence of physiological concentrations of insulin (50--200 muU/ml), glucose utilization was substantially greater in starved rats. Low concentrations of insulin had a greater effect on glucose uptake in fed young (100-g) than in fed older (350-g) rats. Starvation for 48 h enhanced glucose uptake in both young and older rats; however, the relative differences persisted. Starvation had similar effects on glucose utilization by the incubated soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscle. In addition, it augmented the stimulation by insulin of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid transport into the incubated extensor digitorum longus muscle. These results suggest that the in vitro sensitivity of skeletal muscle to physiological concentrations of insulin is enhanced during starvation. The basis for these findings and their physiological implications remain to be determined.", "contents": "Insulin sensitivity of rat skeletal muscle: effects of starvation and aging. The effects of starvation and of aging on the sensitivity of skeletal muscle to insulin were studied in the isolated perfused rat hindquarter preparation. As we have shown previously, starvation for 48 h had no effect on glucose uptake in hindquarters perfused with high levels of insulin (5 and 20 mU/ml). On the other hand, in the presence of physiological concentrations of insulin (50--200 muU/ml), glucose utilization was substantially greater in starved rats. Low concentrations of insulin had a greater effect on glucose uptake in fed young (100-g) than in fed older (350-g) rats. Starvation for 48 h enhanced glucose uptake in both young and older rats; however, the relative differences persisted. Starvation had similar effects on glucose utilization by the incubated soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscle. In addition, it augmented the stimulation by insulin of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid transport into the incubated extensor digitorum longus muscle. These results suggest that the in vitro sensitivity of skeletal muscle to physiological concentrations of insulin is enhanced during starvation. The basis for these findings and their physiological implications remain to be determined.", "PMID": 443372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6092", "title": "Mechanism of inhibition of alanine absorption by Na ricinoleate.", "content": "The mechanism of inhibition of alanine absorption by Na ricinoleate has been examined in the rabbit intestine. This fatty acid in a concentration of 2--5 mM inhibits alanine absorption in vivo and in vitro. The inhibition is more evident in the jejunum than in the ileum. Strips of ileal mucosa treated with Na ricinoleate gain Na. Sodium ricinoleate inhibits alanine influx across rabbit ileum, even in the presence of a sodium gradient across these cells. The results suggest that the main action of Na ricinoleate is on the alanine-transport system at the brush-border membrane. The fatty acid may also inhibit amino acid absorption by increasing intestinal cell Na concentration, which results in a decreased Na gradient across the brush-border membrane.", "contents": "Mechanism of inhibition of alanine absorption by Na ricinoleate. The mechanism of inhibition of alanine absorption by Na ricinoleate has been examined in the rabbit intestine. This fatty acid in a concentration of 2--5 mM inhibits alanine absorption in vivo and in vitro. The inhibition is more evident in the jejunum than in the ileum. Strips of ileal mucosa treated with Na ricinoleate gain Na. Sodium ricinoleate inhibits alanine influx across rabbit ileum, even in the presence of a sodium gradient across these cells. The results suggest that the main action of Na ricinoleate is on the alanine-transport system at the brush-border membrane. The fatty acid may also inhibit amino acid absorption by increasing intestinal cell Na concentration, which results in a decreased Na gradient across the brush-border membrane.", "PMID": 443374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6093", "title": "Scanning esophageal impedance probe for measurement of luminal cross section.", "content": "A scanning esophageal probe for measuring luminal cross section is described. Current is injected into electrode assemblies so that a variable voltage output directly proportional to interelectrode impedance and inversely proportional to cross-sectional area of the medium around the electrodes may be measured. The device is capable of measuring the cross section of glass cylinders. It was used in one esophagus to measure the cross-sectional area of different sizes of swallowed bolus. The probe offers a safe and repeatable method of studying dynamic changes in luminal dimensions of the esophagus.", "contents": "Scanning esophageal impedance probe for measurement of luminal cross section. A scanning esophageal probe for measuring luminal cross section is described. Current is injected into electrode assemblies so that a variable voltage output directly proportional to interelectrode impedance and inversely proportional to cross-sectional area of the medium around the electrodes may be measured. The device is capable of measuring the cross section of glass cylinders. It was used in one esophagus to measure the cross-sectional area of different sizes of swallowed bolus. The probe offers a safe and repeatable method of studying dynamic changes in luminal dimensions of the esophagus.", "PMID": 443375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6094", "title": "Calcium absorption and intestinal calcium-binding protein: quantitative relationship.", "content": "The concentration of the vitamin D-induced calcium-binding protein (CaBP) and calcium absorption from the duodenum were investigated in chicks with an in vivo ligated-loop technique. The relation between CaBP and calcium absorption was dependent on a) source of vitamin D activity (either vitamin D3 or 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol); b) dosage of vitamin D3; c) time after administration of vitamin D3 to rachitic animals. To aid in the interpretation of these results, a phenomenological model was developed in which CaBP was viewed as being linearly related to a portion of calcium absorption. The model, when applied to the data, suggests that there is a \"nonfunctional\" pool of CaBP the size of which is determined by the vitamin D status of the animal. After correction for this nonfunctional pool, the proportionality between CaBP and calcium absorption is independent of the vitamin D status of the animal.", "contents": "Calcium absorption and intestinal calcium-binding protein: quantitative relationship. The concentration of the vitamin D-induced calcium-binding protein (CaBP) and calcium absorption from the duodenum were investigated in chicks with an in vivo ligated-loop technique. The relation between CaBP and calcium absorption was dependent on a) source of vitamin D activity (either vitamin D3 or 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol); b) dosage of vitamin D3; c) time after administration of vitamin D3 to rachitic animals. To aid in the interpretation of these results, a phenomenological model was developed in which CaBP was viewed as being linearly related to a portion of calcium absorption. The model, when applied to the data, suggests that there is a \"nonfunctional\" pool of CaBP the size of which is determined by the vitamin D status of the animal. After correction for this nonfunctional pool, the proportionality between CaBP and calcium absorption is independent of the vitamin D status of the animal.", "PMID": 443376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6095", "title": "Age-dependent inhibition of suckling by cholecystokinin.", "content": "The effects of exogenous cholecystokinin (10--40 U/kg body wt) on neonatal rat suckling were studied in 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-day-old rats that were equipped with tongue cannulas. Milk (0.1 ml over 10 s) was delivered through the tongue cannula once every minute, providing a rat was still suckling. Cholecystokinin, a well-established inhibitor of adult rat feeding, did not reduce milk intake volume of 5- and 10-day-old rats. It did, however, depress milk intake of 15- and especially of 20-day-old rats. Despite its effect on milk intake, cholecystokinin never lengthened the latency to attach to the nipple and, paradoxically, reduced it on certain occasions. The implications of these findings for the events controlling various aspects of suckling behavior throughout the course of the nursing-suckling period in rats and for the mechanism of action of cholecystokinin are discussed.", "contents": "Age-dependent inhibition of suckling by cholecystokinin. The effects of exogenous cholecystokinin (10--40 U/kg body wt) on neonatal rat suckling were studied in 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-day-old rats that were equipped with tongue cannulas. Milk (0.1 ml over 10 s) was delivered through the tongue cannula once every minute, providing a rat was still suckling. Cholecystokinin, a well-established inhibitor of adult rat feeding, did not reduce milk intake volume of 5- and 10-day-old rats. It did, however, depress milk intake of 15- and especially of 20-day-old rats. Despite its effect on milk intake, cholecystokinin never lengthened the latency to attach to the nipple and, paradoxically, reduced it on certain occasions. The implications of these findings for the events controlling various aspects of suckling behavior throughout the course of the nursing-suckling period in rats and for the mechanism of action of cholecystokinin are discussed.", "PMID": 443377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6096", "title": "Actions of peptides isolated from amphibian skin on amylase release from dispersed pancreatic acini.", "content": "In dispersed acini prepared from guinea pig pancreas, peptides isolated from amphibian skin (caerulein, bombesin, litorin, and physalaemin) as well as eledoisin, a peptide isolated from the posterior salivary gland of a Mediterranean octopod, caused a significant increase in amylase release. Each amphibian peptide potentiated the stimulation of amylase release caused by vasoactive intestinal peptide or secretin in that the increase in amylase release caused by an amphibian peptide plus vasoactive intestinal peptide or secretin was significantly greater than the sum of the increase caused by each secretagogue acting alone. Potentiation of amylase secretion did not occur with an amphibian peptide plus cholecystokinin or carbachol.", "contents": "Actions of peptides isolated from amphibian skin on amylase release from dispersed pancreatic acini. In dispersed acini prepared from guinea pig pancreas, peptides isolated from amphibian skin (caerulein, bombesin, litorin, and physalaemin) as well as eledoisin, a peptide isolated from the posterior salivary gland of a Mediterranean octopod, caused a significant increase in amylase release. Each amphibian peptide potentiated the stimulation of amylase release caused by vasoactive intestinal peptide or secretin in that the increase in amylase release caused by an amphibian peptide plus vasoactive intestinal peptide or secretin was significantly greater than the sum of the increase caused by each secretagogue acting alone. Potentiation of amylase secretion did not occur with an amphibian peptide plus cholecystokinin or carbachol.", "PMID": 443378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6097", "title": "Use of microspheres to measure small intestinal villus blood flow in the dog.", "content": "The accuracy of using 7- to 10-micron microspheres to measure blood flow to dog small intestinal villi was studied. These spheres appear to pass unimpeded through the afferent arterioles of the villus and lodge at the villus tip because 1) virtually all villus spheres were located at the tip, 2) flow determined by visually counting spheres did not differ significantly from flow determined from radioactivity of the sheared-off villus layer, 3) the size distribution of spheres in the villus and subvillus layers was virtually identical to that administered, indicating no premature impaction of the larger spheres, and 4) spheres lodging in the submucosa during vasoconstriction did not subsequently migrate to the villi during vasodilatation. Studies with 25-micron spheres indicated that 28% of the 7- to 10-micron spheres shunted through vessels greater than 10 micron. Double isotope studies showed that lodges spheres do not migrate and that the injection of 2--4 X 10(6) spheres does not alter villus flow. Thus, 7- to 10-micron microspheres pass to and lodge in villus vessels in proportion to capillary flow and should provide an accurate estimate of villus nutrient blood flow.", "contents": "Use of microspheres to measure small intestinal villus blood flow in the dog. The accuracy of using 7- to 10-micron microspheres to measure blood flow to dog small intestinal villi was studied. These spheres appear to pass unimpeded through the afferent arterioles of the villus and lodge at the villus tip because 1) virtually all villus spheres were located at the tip, 2) flow determined by visually counting spheres did not differ significantly from flow determined from radioactivity of the sheared-off villus layer, 3) the size distribution of spheres in the villus and subvillus layers was virtually identical to that administered, indicating no premature impaction of the larger spheres, and 4) spheres lodging in the submucosa during vasoconstriction did not subsequently migrate to the villi during vasodilatation. Studies with 25-micron spheres indicated that 28% of the 7- to 10-micron spheres shunted through vessels greater than 10 micron. Double isotope studies showed that lodges spheres do not migrate and that the injection of 2--4 X 10(6) spheres does not alter villus flow. Thus, 7- to 10-micron microspheres pass to and lodge in villus vessels in proportion to capillary flow and should provide an accurate estimate of villus nutrient blood flow.", "PMID": 443379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6098", "title": "Sodium in renal tubular acidification kinetics.", "content": "Renal proximal tubules and their peritubular capillaries were perfused with mammalian Ringer solutions containing different sodium concentrations. In stop-flow microperfusion experiments, the pH was measured by means of antimony microelectrodes, permitting calculation of rates of H ion secretion and bicarbonate reabsorption. These rates, as well as transepithelial pH and bicarbonate gradients, were significantly reduced at ambient concentrations of 20 and 4 meq/liter Na+. However, even at the lowest sodium concentrations (4 meq/liter), H ion secretion was still 74%, and bicarbonate reabsorption of 64% of control rates. In similar conditions, sodium reabsorption as measured by the split-droplet technique fell to practically zero. Ouabain, 10(-3) M, in capillaries reduced bicarbonate reabsorption by 31%, and 3 X 10(-4) M furosemide in lumen and capillaries reduced acidification by 29%. At pH 8--9 in capillaries, sodium transport was normal while acidification was markedly reduced. These data show that low sodium levels impair renal tubular acidification, but they do not support a rigid coupling of these transport processes.", "contents": "Sodium in renal tubular acidification kinetics. Renal proximal tubules and their peritubular capillaries were perfused with mammalian Ringer solutions containing different sodium concentrations. In stop-flow microperfusion experiments, the pH was measured by means of antimony microelectrodes, permitting calculation of rates of H ion secretion and bicarbonate reabsorption. These rates, as well as transepithelial pH and bicarbonate gradients, were significantly reduced at ambient concentrations of 20 and 4 meq/liter Na+. However, even at the lowest sodium concentrations (4 meq/liter), H ion secretion was still 74%, and bicarbonate reabsorption of 64% of control rates. In similar conditions, sodium reabsorption as measured by the split-droplet technique fell to practically zero. Ouabain, 10(-3) M, in capillaries reduced bicarbonate reabsorption by 31%, and 3 X 10(-4) M furosemide in lumen and capillaries reduced acidification by 29%. At pH 8--9 in capillaries, sodium transport was normal while acidification was markedly reduced. These data show that low sodium levels impair renal tubular acidification, but they do not support a rigid coupling of these transport processes.", "PMID": 443380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6099", "title": "Excretion of phenol red by the Necturus kidney.", "content": "Phenol red (phenolsulfonphthalein, PSP) is thought to be secreted by proximal kidney tubules in all vertebrates. The present study examined PSP transport by the kidney of the salamander, Necturus maculosus. In Necturus kidneys perfused with oxygenated Ringer solution, the PSP/creatinine clearance ratio was unity. Perfusion with 1 mM octanoate converted net p-aminohippurate (PAH) reabsorption to net secretion, but had no effect on PSP. In seven urethan-anesthetized Necturi, the PSP/inulin clearance ratio averaged 0.85 +/- 0.21 (SD), not significantly different from unity. Thin slices from Necturus kidneys incubated in vitro for 2 h failed to accumulate PSP; slice-to-medium (S/M) concentration ratios averaged 0.8 +/- 0.2 (n = 6). With frog kidney slices, (S/M)PSP was 9.6 +/- 1.4 (n = 6). Necturus kidney slices accumulated PAH ((S/M)PAH = 4.1 +/- 0.7) (n = 6), but uptake was not inhibited by 1 mM PSP. We conclude that Necturus kidney tubules transport PAH, but do not transport PSP. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the organic acid secretory system in most animals involves several carriers.", "contents": "Excretion of phenol red by the Necturus kidney. Phenol red (phenolsulfonphthalein, PSP) is thought to be secreted by proximal kidney tubules in all vertebrates. The present study examined PSP transport by the kidney of the salamander, Necturus maculosus. In Necturus kidneys perfused with oxygenated Ringer solution, the PSP/creatinine clearance ratio was unity. Perfusion with 1 mM octanoate converted net p-aminohippurate (PAH) reabsorption to net secretion, but had no effect on PSP. In seven urethan-anesthetized Necturi, the PSP/inulin clearance ratio averaged 0.85 +/- 0.21 (SD), not significantly different from unity. Thin slices from Necturus kidneys incubated in vitro for 2 h failed to accumulate PSP; slice-to-medium (S/M) concentration ratios averaged 0.8 +/- 0.2 (n = 6). With frog kidney slices, (S/M)PSP was 9.6 +/- 1.4 (n = 6). Necturus kidney slices accumulated PAH ((S/M)PAH = 4.1 +/- 0.7) (n = 6), but uptake was not inhibited by 1 mM PSP. We conclude that Necturus kidney tubules transport PAH, but do not transport PSP. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the organic acid secretory system in most animals involves several carriers.", "PMID": 443381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6100", "title": "Urinary concentrating mechanism in the desert rodent Psammomys obesus.", "content": "The mechanism by which osmolality rises in fluid in the juxtamedullary descending limb was examined in Psammomys obesus by micropuncture of the left renal papilla. The concentration of Na, Cl, K, Mg, and phosphorus was determined by electron probe; Cl concentration by both probe and the microcoulometric technique of Ramsay et al. (J. Exp. Biol. 32: 822--829, 1955). The mean urine-to-plasma ultrafiltrate (U/P) osmolality was 5.5 +/- 0.46 (SE). In 43 samples obtained from the end-descending limb in 16 animals, mean values were: tubule fluid-to-plasma ultrafiltrate (TF/P) osmolality, 3.64 +/- 0.30; (TF/P)In, 6.96 +/- 0.52; (TF/P)Na, 3.53 +/- 0.27; (TF/P)Cl-e, 4.11 +/- 0.37 (-e is electron probe determination); and (TF/P)Cl-r, 4.25 +/- 0.37 (-r is determination by method of Ramsay). In terms of percentage of filtered ion remaining at the end-descending limb, Na was 54 +/- 3.7%, Cl-e was 61 +/- 3.6%, and Cl-r was 63 +/- 4.0%. The percentage of filtered chloride remaining averaged 80% or more in three animals, equalled or slightly exceeded 100% in six individual descending limb samples, and in all animals was a function of loop fluid osmolality (y = 8.61x + 31.9, r = 0.66, P less than 0.01). The results are most consistent with the thesis that both water extraction and transepithelial NaCl addition contribute to the rise in osmolality of fluid in the descending limb of the Psammomys.", "contents": "Urinary concentrating mechanism in the desert rodent Psammomys obesus. The mechanism by which osmolality rises in fluid in the juxtamedullary descending limb was examined in Psammomys obesus by micropuncture of the left renal papilla. The concentration of Na, Cl, K, Mg, and phosphorus was determined by electron probe; Cl concentration by both probe and the microcoulometric technique of Ramsay et al. (J. Exp. Biol. 32: 822--829, 1955). The mean urine-to-plasma ultrafiltrate (U/P) osmolality was 5.5 +/- 0.46 (SE). In 43 samples obtained from the end-descending limb in 16 animals, mean values were: tubule fluid-to-plasma ultrafiltrate (TF/P) osmolality, 3.64 +/- 0.30; (TF/P)In, 6.96 +/- 0.52; (TF/P)Na, 3.53 +/- 0.27; (TF/P)Cl-e, 4.11 +/- 0.37 (-e is electron probe determination); and (TF/P)Cl-r, 4.25 +/- 0.37 (-r is determination by method of Ramsay). In terms of percentage of filtered ion remaining at the end-descending limb, Na was 54 +/- 3.7%, Cl-e was 61 +/- 3.6%, and Cl-r was 63 +/- 4.0%. The percentage of filtered chloride remaining averaged 80% or more in three animals, equalled or slightly exceeded 100% in six individual descending limb samples, and in all animals was a function of loop fluid osmolality (y = 8.61x + 31.9, r = 0.66, P less than 0.01). The results are most consistent with the thesis that both water extraction and transepithelial NaCl addition contribute to the rise in osmolality of fluid in the descending limb of the Psammomys.", "PMID": 443382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6101", "title": "Response of deep nephrons and the terminal collecting duct to a reduction in renal mass.", "content": "Juxtamedullary (JM) nephron and collecting duct function was studied after a two-thirds reduction in renal mass in the young rat. The glomerular filtration rate of JM nephrons was twofold greater in the remnant kidney (RK) group than in controls, but this increase was proportional to the increase measured in surface nephrons. Despite an increase in absolute reabsorption, delivery of sodium and water to the end of the proximal tubule of superficial nephrons and to the bend of Henle's loop of JM nephrons was increased. This was a consequence of an increase in filtered load and a decrease in fractional reabsorption. Potassium handling in surface nephrons was similar to that of sodium and water. In deep nephrons of the RK group, potassium delivery to the bend was increased as a consequence of increased filtered load. The terminal portion of the collecting duct has a role in this adaptive response to a reduction in renal mass. In rats with a RK, reabsorption of water occurred along this segment; however, when the amount reabsorbed was related to delivery, fractional water reabsorption was only 30% of controls. Changes in sodium handling were more profound. In the group with the RK, sodium reabsorption was not detectable along this segment. Thus, while 40% of delivered sodium was reabsorbed in controls, in the remnant kidney group the mean was not different from zero (-1.7%).", "contents": "Response of deep nephrons and the terminal collecting duct to a reduction in renal mass. Juxtamedullary (JM) nephron and collecting duct function was studied after a two-thirds reduction in renal mass in the young rat. The glomerular filtration rate of JM nephrons was twofold greater in the remnant kidney (RK) group than in controls, but this increase was proportional to the increase measured in surface nephrons. Despite an increase in absolute reabsorption, delivery of sodium and water to the end of the proximal tubule of superficial nephrons and to the bend of Henle's loop of JM nephrons was increased. This was a consequence of an increase in filtered load and a decrease in fractional reabsorption. Potassium handling in surface nephrons was similar to that of sodium and water. In deep nephrons of the RK group, potassium delivery to the bend was increased as a consequence of increased filtered load. The terminal portion of the collecting duct has a role in this adaptive response to a reduction in renal mass. In rats with a RK, reabsorption of water occurred along this segment; however, when the amount reabsorbed was related to delivery, fractional water reabsorption was only 30% of controls. Changes in sodium handling were more profound. In the group with the RK, sodium reabsorption was not detectable along this segment. Thus, while 40% of delivered sodium was reabsorbed in controls, in the remnant kidney group the mean was not different from zero (-1.7%).", "PMID": 443383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6102", "title": "Maturational development of glomerular ultrafiltration in the rat.", "content": "To ascertain the cause of low glomerular filtration rate in newborn and immature mammals, we measured glomerular pressures and flows directly in immature (30- to 45-day-old) euvolemic Munich-Wistar rats with surface glomeruli. As with total kidney GFR, single nephron (SN)GFR was found to be significantly lower than in adult rats, on average by 40% when corrected for kidney weight. Equality between efferent oncotic pressure and transglomeruler hydraulic pressure difference (deltaP) was usually achieved in immature rats, indicating that the glomerular capillary ultrafiltration coefficient is not a factor limiting SNGFR and GFR in immature rats. Although the average values for deltaP in immature rats were slightly, albeit significantly, lower than in adults, markedly lower values (79 +/- 5 vs. 136 +/- 10 nl/min per g kidney wt) for glomerular plasma flow rate (QA) proved to be the primary factor responsible for the lower SNGFR and GFR values in immature rats. Considerably higher values for afferent and efferent arteriolar resistances contributed to this low QA state in immature rats.", "contents": "Maturational development of glomerular ultrafiltration in the rat. To ascertain the cause of low glomerular filtration rate in newborn and immature mammals, we measured glomerular pressures and flows directly in immature (30- to 45-day-old) euvolemic Munich-Wistar rats with surface glomeruli. As with total kidney GFR, single nephron (SN)GFR was found to be significantly lower than in adult rats, on average by 40% when corrected for kidney weight. Equality between efferent oncotic pressure and transglomeruler hydraulic pressure difference (deltaP) was usually achieved in immature rats, indicating that the glomerular capillary ultrafiltration coefficient is not a factor limiting SNGFR and GFR in immature rats. Although the average values for deltaP in immature rats were slightly, albeit significantly, lower than in adults, markedly lower values (79 +/- 5 vs. 136 +/- 10 nl/min per g kidney wt) for glomerular plasma flow rate (QA) proved to be the primary factor responsible for the lower SNGFR and GFR values in immature rats. Considerably higher values for afferent and efferent arteriolar resistances contributed to this low QA state in immature rats.", "PMID": 443384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6103", "title": "Renin inactivation during in vitro experiments.", "content": "Experiments were designed to clarify the factors affecting renin released during in vitro experiments. Kidneys from rat, dog, and pig were used. Experiments were done in which the gas phase was either bubbled through the incubation medium or layered above it. Renin released into the incubation medium disappeared very rapidly when gas was bubbled through the medium. The decline was similar in mediums bubbled with oxygen-CO2 (95%--5%) or nitrogen-CO2 (95%--5%). The half-life of renin activity in the bubbled medium was approximately 15 min in both cases. However, in experiments in which nonbubbled medium was used throughout, renin released into the incubation medium did not disappear after removal of slices. These data are interpreted to mean that the renin released into the incubation medium is inactivated at the air-water interface.", "contents": "Renin inactivation during in vitro experiments. Experiments were designed to clarify the factors affecting renin released during in vitro experiments. Kidneys from rat, dog, and pig were used. Experiments were done in which the gas phase was either bubbled through the incubation medium or layered above it. Renin released into the incubation medium disappeared very rapidly when gas was bubbled through the medium. The decline was similar in mediums bubbled with oxygen-CO2 (95%--5%) or nitrogen-CO2 (95%--5%). The half-life of renin activity in the bubbled medium was approximately 15 min in both cases. However, in experiments in which nonbubbled medium was used throughout, renin released into the incubation medium did not disappear after removal of slices. These data are interpreted to mean that the renin released into the incubation medium is inactivated at the air-water interface.", "PMID": 443387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6104", "title": "Effects of sodium chloride on early and chronic phases of malignant hypertension in rats.", "content": "Malignant hypertension was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by a complete aortic ligation above the left renal artery. The effects of saline (0.9% NaCl) administration on the development and course of the malignant hypertensive vascular disease were studied and the treated rats were compared to non-saline-treated animals and to sham-operated controls in the early and chronic phases of the disease. In the early phase, blood pressure, hematocrit, body weight, and hypertensive vascular disease were characteristic of the malignant hypertensive process and were without significant difference in saline- and non-saline-treated animals. In contrast, the sham-operated rats remained normotensive and did not present abnormal histological findings. Plasma renin activity although decreased in the hypertensive saline-treated animals was not suppressed. In the chronic phase, NaCl administration caused an average increase of 40 g body weight during the 1-wk period this solution was given, but did not result in any improvement in blood pressure levels and vascular disease in treated rats compared to non-saline-treated animals.", "contents": "Effects of sodium chloride on early and chronic phases of malignant hypertension in rats. Malignant hypertension was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by a complete aortic ligation above the left renal artery. The effects of saline (0.9% NaCl) administration on the development and course of the malignant hypertensive vascular disease were studied and the treated rats were compared to non-saline-treated animals and to sham-operated controls in the early and chronic phases of the disease. In the early phase, blood pressure, hematocrit, body weight, and hypertensive vascular disease were characteristic of the malignant hypertensive process and were without significant difference in saline- and non-saline-treated animals. In contrast, the sham-operated rats remained normotensive and did not present abnormal histological findings. Plasma renin activity although decreased in the hypertensive saline-treated animals was not suppressed. In the chronic phase, NaCl administration caused an average increase of 40 g body weight during the 1-wk period this solution was given, but did not result in any improvement in blood pressure levels and vascular disease in treated rats compared to non-saline-treated animals.", "PMID": 443388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6105", "title": "Instantaneous pressure-volume relationship of right atrium during isovolumic contraction in canine heart.", "content": "We studied the contraction of the right atrium in an excised cross-circulated heart preparation. Atrial volume and instantaneous atrial pressure were measured in a water-filled balloon fitted in the spontaneously contracting right atrium. The relation of instantaneous pressure to volume was analyzed by collecting pressure data from multiple isovolumic contractions with different volumes but measured at multiple identical time points in the contraction cycle. The relation was found to be quasi-linear during most of atrial systole and diastole. A linear regression formula P(t) = K(t)[V- VD(t)] was therefore fitted to the data. K(t) and VD(t) of the regression formula are the slope and the volume axis intercept in the pressure-volume plane, respectively. When the atrium beat spontaneously at a regular sinus rhythm with no inotropic intervention. K(t) increased during systole and decreased during diastole, whereas VD(t) decreased during systole and increased during diastole. The average value of K was 13 +/- 1.7 (SE) mmHg . kg . ml-1 at the end of diastole and 33 +/- 0.02 (SE) mmHg . kg . ml-1 at the end of systole. The average value of VD was 0.303 +/- 0.017 (SE) ml . kg-1 at the end of diastole and 0.212 +/- .025 (SE) ml . kg-1 at the end of systole. Enhancement of contractility with epinephrine or Ca2+ significantly increased the value of K at the end of systole, but it did not significantly affect either K at the end of diastole or VD at the end of systole and diastole.", "contents": "Instantaneous pressure-volume relationship of right atrium during isovolumic contraction in canine heart. We studied the contraction of the right atrium in an excised cross-circulated heart preparation. Atrial volume and instantaneous atrial pressure were measured in a water-filled balloon fitted in the spontaneously contracting right atrium. The relation of instantaneous pressure to volume was analyzed by collecting pressure data from multiple isovolumic contractions with different volumes but measured at multiple identical time points in the contraction cycle. The relation was found to be quasi-linear during most of atrial systole and diastole. A linear regression formula P(t) = K(t)[V- VD(t)] was therefore fitted to the data. K(t) and VD(t) of the regression formula are the slope and the volume axis intercept in the pressure-volume plane, respectively. When the atrium beat spontaneously at a regular sinus rhythm with no inotropic intervention. K(t) increased during systole and decreased during diastole, whereas VD(t) decreased during systole and increased during diastole. The average value of K was 13 +/- 1.7 (SE) mmHg . kg . ml-1 at the end of diastole and 33 +/- 0.02 (SE) mmHg . kg . ml-1 at the end of systole. The average value of VD was 0.303 +/- 0.017 (SE) ml . kg-1 at the end of diastole and 0.212 +/- .025 (SE) ml . kg-1 at the end of systole. Enhancement of contractility with epinephrine or Ca2+ significantly increased the value of K at the end of systole, but it did not significantly affect either K at the end of diastole or VD at the end of systole and diastole.", "PMID": 443389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6106", "title": "Scattering of cerebral blood flow estimates using 133Xe intracarotid injection.", "content": "Computer-generated and real curves were used to study the random error in the blood flow estimates calculated from xenon-133 cerebral clearance curves. The initial count rate affects the scattering under a threshold of 5,000 counts/s, but above this figure its influence is negligible. Flow values, relative weight of gray matter, and processes of analysis have also an effect. For the stochastic analysis, a theoretical standard deviation calculable from each experimental curve was proved. For other methods, empirical formulas were established. Using these formulas, intervals of uncertainty can be calculated allowing a useful comparison of the results obtained on the same patient, from different areas or from subsequent tests. Such intervals also allow the comparison of mean flow values obtained from a particular curve by the three usual processes of analysis. With high initial count rates, more than 75% of the intervals of uncertainty are disjointed. This suggests that the random error plays little part in the differences observed.", "contents": "Scattering of cerebral blood flow estimates using 133Xe intracarotid injection. Computer-generated and real curves were used to study the random error in the blood flow estimates calculated from xenon-133 cerebral clearance curves. The initial count rate affects the scattering under a threshold of 5,000 counts/s, but above this figure its influence is negligible. Flow values, relative weight of gray matter, and processes of analysis have also an effect. For the stochastic analysis, a theoretical standard deviation calculable from each experimental curve was proved. For other methods, empirical formulas were established. Using these formulas, intervals of uncertainty can be calculated allowing a useful comparison of the results obtained on the same patient, from different areas or from subsequent tests. Such intervals also allow the comparison of mean flow values obtained from a particular curve by the three usual processes of analysis. With high initial count rates, more than 75% of the intervals of uncertainty are disjointed. This suggests that the random error plays little part in the differences observed.", "PMID": 443390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6107", "title": "Effect of calcium on strophanthidin-induced electrical and mechanical toxicity in cardiac Purkinje fibers.", "content": "The role of calcium in the electrical and mechanical toxicity induced by strophanthidin (10(-6) M) was studied in canine Purkinje fibers perfused in vitro. Strophanthidin caused an increase in contractile force (\"therapeutic effect\") followed by a subsequent decrease and by the onset of arrhythmias (\"toxic effects\"). The onset of arrhythmias occurred sooner in low- and later in high-calcium solutions with respect to the normal calcium. The positive inotropic (therapeutic) effect of strophanthidin was reduced or prevented by caffeine (1 mM) or by high calcium. The late (toxic) decline in force during exposure to strophanthidin was temporarily reversed by decreasing [Ca]o to a low value. Similarly, the contractile force decreased when [Ca]o was increased from 8.1 to 16.2 mM and this decline was transiently reversed when [Ca]o was reduced to a low value. It is concluded that in Purkinje fibers 1) electrical toxicity may occur independently of an intracellular calcium accumulation, and 2) the mechanical toxicity may be due to an excessive accumulation of calcium in the fiber.", "contents": "Effect of calcium on strophanthidin-induced electrical and mechanical toxicity in cardiac Purkinje fibers. The role of calcium in the electrical and mechanical toxicity induced by strophanthidin (10(-6) M) was studied in canine Purkinje fibers perfused in vitro. Strophanthidin caused an increase in contractile force (\"therapeutic effect\") followed by a subsequent decrease and by the onset of arrhythmias (\"toxic effects\"). The onset of arrhythmias occurred sooner in low- and later in high-calcium solutions with respect to the normal calcium. The positive inotropic (therapeutic) effect of strophanthidin was reduced or prevented by caffeine (1 mM) or by high calcium. The late (toxic) decline in force during exposure to strophanthidin was temporarily reversed by decreasing [Ca]o to a low value. Similarly, the contractile force decreased when [Ca]o was increased from 8.1 to 16.2 mM and this decline was transiently reversed when [Ca]o was reduced to a low value. It is concluded that in Purkinje fibers 1) electrical toxicity may occur independently of an intracellular calcium accumulation, and 2) the mechanical toxicity may be due to an excessive accumulation of calcium in the fiber.", "PMID": 443391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6108", "title": "Contributions of nerves and metabolites to exercise vasodilation: a unifying hypothesis.", "content": "Neuronal cell bodies exist in arterioles of skeletal muscle and appear to initiate vasodilation during phasic contraction. The following findings indicate that intrinsic nerves rather than metabolites maintain vasodilation during sustained phasic contraction with free flow. 1) Under certain conditions maximal vasodilation can occur without detectable release of metabolites. 2) When metabolites are released during exercise, their concentrations in blood or tissue do not always determine the extent of vasodilation. 3) Vasodilation during sustained contraction can be partly blocked by local anesthetics. The extent of block is inversely proportional to the concentration of metabolites. Dose, time course of block, and other tests of specificity indicate that local anesthetics act on the intrinsic nerves rather than smooth or striated muscle. When contraction stops, neurogenic vasodilation decays rapidly (half time less than 1 min). Sustained vasodilation during recovery is therefore fully accounted for by metabolites. A hypothesis is suggested that integrates the roles of extrinsic nerves, intrinsic nerves, and metabolites in support of muscle contraction.", "contents": "Contributions of nerves and metabolites to exercise vasodilation: a unifying hypothesis. Neuronal cell bodies exist in arterioles of skeletal muscle and appear to initiate vasodilation during phasic contraction. The following findings indicate that intrinsic nerves rather than metabolites maintain vasodilation during sustained phasic contraction with free flow. 1) Under certain conditions maximal vasodilation can occur without detectable release of metabolites. 2) When metabolites are released during exercise, their concentrations in blood or tissue do not always determine the extent of vasodilation. 3) Vasodilation during sustained contraction can be partly blocked by local anesthetics. The extent of block is inversely proportional to the concentration of metabolites. Dose, time course of block, and other tests of specificity indicate that local anesthetics act on the intrinsic nerves rather than smooth or striated muscle. When contraction stops, neurogenic vasodilation decays rapidly (half time less than 1 min). Sustained vasodilation during recovery is therefore fully accounted for by metabolites. A hypothesis is suggested that integrates the roles of extrinsic nerves, intrinsic nerves, and metabolites in support of muscle contraction.", "PMID": 443392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6109", "title": "Low-frequency viscoelastic properties of canine femoral artery in vivo.", "content": "Mechanical properties of the canine femoral artery in vivo are measured as a function of frequency (0.0025--0.1 Hz) and as a function of mean pressure (10--16 kPa). Sinusoidal pressure variations are generated with a servo-controlled occluder system. The absolute value of the Young's modulus increases with mean pressure (E = 0.63 X 10(5) exp(0.211P)-N.m-2) at 0.05 Hz; where P is pressure. At heart rate frequencies (average value 2.22 Hz) this relation is: E = 1.25 X 10(5) exp(0.175P) N.m-2. The phase angle of the Young's modulus is independent of pressure at both frequencies. At 0.05 Hz we found: phi = 0.189 - 0.00788 P radians and at 2.22 Hz: phi = 0.0723 + 0.000428 P. The slope of both lines is not significantly different from zero slope (alpha = 0.05). Frequency dependence is studied at a constant pressure level (Pr, average value 14.3 kPa) just below the animals' mean pressure levels (average value 15.9 kPa). The frequency behavior of the elastic modulus is fitted with a function with two poles and two zeros (poles at 0.003 and 0.038 Hz; zeros at 0.0022 and 0.03 Hz).", "contents": "Low-frequency viscoelastic properties of canine femoral artery in vivo. Mechanical properties of the canine femoral artery in vivo are measured as a function of frequency (0.0025--0.1 Hz) and as a function of mean pressure (10--16 kPa). Sinusoidal pressure variations are generated with a servo-controlled occluder system. The absolute value of the Young's modulus increases with mean pressure (E = 0.63 X 10(5) exp(0.211P)-N.m-2) at 0.05 Hz; where P is pressure. At heart rate frequencies (average value 2.22 Hz) this relation is: E = 1.25 X 10(5) exp(0.175P) N.m-2. The phase angle of the Young's modulus is independent of pressure at both frequencies. At 0.05 Hz we found: phi = 0.189 - 0.00788 P radians and at 2.22 Hz: phi = 0.0723 + 0.000428 P. The slope of both lines is not significantly different from zero slope (alpha = 0.05). Frequency dependence is studied at a constant pressure level (Pr, average value 14.3 kPa) just below the animals' mean pressure levels (average value 15.9 kPa). The frequency behavior of the elastic modulus is fitted with a function with two poles and two zeros (poles at 0.003 and 0.038 Hz; zeros at 0.0022 and 0.03 Hz).", "PMID": 443393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6110", "title": "Variability in erythrocyte deformability among various mammals.", "content": "Deformability is an important aspect of erythrocyte physiology and has been extensively studied using human red cells. We have studied erythrocytes from 25 different animals using a viscometric technique. Erythrocyte diameters ranged from 3.3 microns in the goat to 11.4 microns for the elephant seal. Erythrocytes from most species deformed readily when a fluid shear stress was applied. A deformability index of the stressed cell defined as (length - width)/(length + width) correlated with cell size. The erythrocytes of four animals (pygmy goat, goat, Batanga horse, and miniature horse) deformed less than most species. Camel and llama erythrocytes, which were ellipsoidal, did not deform but oriented in the stress field.", "contents": "Variability in erythrocyte deformability among various mammals. Deformability is an important aspect of erythrocyte physiology and has been extensively studied using human red cells. We have studied erythrocytes from 25 different animals using a viscometric technique. Erythrocyte diameters ranged from 3.3 microns in the goat to 11.4 microns for the elephant seal. Erythrocytes from most species deformed readily when a fluid shear stress was applied. A deformability index of the stressed cell defined as (length - width)/(length + width) correlated with cell size. The erythrocytes of four animals (pygmy goat, goat, Batanga horse, and miniature horse) deformed less than most species. Camel and llama erythrocytes, which were ellipsoidal, did not deform but oriented in the stress field.", "PMID": 443394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6111", "title": "Intestinal O2 uptake during sympathetic stimulation and partial arterial occlusion.", "content": "In isolated loops of canine small bowel perfused at constant blood flow, stimulating perivascular sympathetic nerves (8--10 Hz) depressed O2 extraction and O2 uptake. Because sympathetic stimulation also decreased 86Rb extraction, the results confirmed earlier studies indicating that sympathetic stimulation closes \"precapillary sphincters\" and through diffusion limitations reduces the capillary-to-cell flux of oxygen. To determine if sympathetic stimulation could lower O2 uptake under more physiologic circumstances, a second series of experiments was performed during constant arterial pressure perfusion. Sympathetic stimulation reduced blood flow by about 30% in the steady phase. Oxygen extraction did not increase appreciably, so O2 uptake was also reduced. When partial arterial occlusion was used to lower the blood flow to the level that it reached during sympathetic stimulation, large increases (37%) in O2 extraction occurred so that O2 uptake remained near control levels. The results indicate that after arterial occlusion local mechanisms maintain O2 uptake by increasing O2 extraction through capillary density increases, but that this mechanism is impaired by sympathetic stimulation.", "contents": "Intestinal O2 uptake during sympathetic stimulation and partial arterial occlusion. In isolated loops of canine small bowel perfused at constant blood flow, stimulating perivascular sympathetic nerves (8--10 Hz) depressed O2 extraction and O2 uptake. Because sympathetic stimulation also decreased 86Rb extraction, the results confirmed earlier studies indicating that sympathetic stimulation closes \"precapillary sphincters\" and through diffusion limitations reduces the capillary-to-cell flux of oxygen. To determine if sympathetic stimulation could lower O2 uptake under more physiologic circumstances, a second series of experiments was performed during constant arterial pressure perfusion. Sympathetic stimulation reduced blood flow by about 30% in the steady phase. Oxygen extraction did not increase appreciably, so O2 uptake was also reduced. When partial arterial occlusion was used to lower the blood flow to the level that it reached during sympathetic stimulation, large increases (37%) in O2 extraction occurred so that O2 uptake remained near control levels. The results indicate that after arterial occlusion local mechanisms maintain O2 uptake by increasing O2 extraction through capillary density increases, but that this mechanism is impaired by sympathetic stimulation.", "PMID": 443395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6112", "title": "Avian cerebral blood flow: influence of the Bohr effect on oxygen supply.", "content": "To clarify the problems of altitude tolerance in birds, we studied the combined effect of hypocapnia and hypoxia on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in ducks. CBF was measured by the xenon clearance method. Normocapnic hypoxia causes CBF to increase when the arterial O2 tension (PaO2) falls below 60--70 mmHg. Hypocapnic hypoxia significantly shifts the blood flow curve so that blood flow does not increase until a lower PaO2 (50--60 mmHg) is reached. This gives the appearance that hypocapnia suppresses the hypoxia-induced increase in CBF. However, due to the Bohr effect, the hypocapnic blood contains significantly more O2 than does the normocapnic blood at the same PaO2. Therefore, when CBF is expressed as a function of O2 content, rather than PO2, CBF in the hypocapnic group does not differ significantly from the CBF in the normocapnic group. We interpret this to mean that because of the significantly greater oxygen content of the hypocapnic blood at a given PaO2, the degree of hypoxia experienced by these brains is not as severe as that experienced by the normocapnic brains.", "contents": "Avian cerebral blood flow: influence of the Bohr effect on oxygen supply. To clarify the problems of altitude tolerance in birds, we studied the combined effect of hypocapnia and hypoxia on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in ducks. CBF was measured by the xenon clearance method. Normocapnic hypoxia causes CBF to increase when the arterial O2 tension (PaO2) falls below 60--70 mmHg. Hypocapnic hypoxia significantly shifts the blood flow curve so that blood flow does not increase until a lower PaO2 (50--60 mmHg) is reached. This gives the appearance that hypocapnia suppresses the hypoxia-induced increase in CBF. However, due to the Bohr effect, the hypocapnic blood contains significantly more O2 than does the normocapnic blood at the same PaO2. Therefore, when CBF is expressed as a function of O2 content, rather than PO2, CBF in the hypocapnic group does not differ significantly from the CBF in the normocapnic group. We interpret this to mean that because of the significantly greater oxygen content of the hypocapnic blood at a given PaO2, the degree of hypoxia experienced by these brains is not as severe as that experienced by the normocapnic brains.", "PMID": 443397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6113", "title": "Rabbit cardiovascular responses to aortic nerve stimulation at fixed carotid pressure.", "content": "In pentobarbital-anesthetized rabbits with aortic nerves cut, reflex heart rate and mean arterial pressure (MAP) changes were quantified in response to maximal central stimulation of the left aortic nerve (LANS) before and during steady-state changes in isolated carotid intrasinus pressure (ISP). To distinguish possible vagally mediated cardiopulmonary influences, responses were measured before and after vagotomy. Changes in MAP observed by altering ISP within +/- 15 mmHg of the equilibrium pressure (EP) were linear and inversely correlated to changes in ISP, with a slope of approximately 3 both before and after vagotomy (r greater than or equal to 0.929, P less than 0.05). The peak fall in MAP during LANS was dependent upon ISP. The change in the MAP responses to LANS for each mmHg change in ISP ranged from 1.7 with vagi intact to 1.3 after vagotomy. Heart rate was unaltered by isolation of the carotid sinus and was independent of the small changes in ISP between +/- 15 mmHg of EP. These results indicate that blood pressure changes elicited by the aortic baroreflex are extremely sensitive to the degree of carotid sinus compensation. Thus, to assess the sensitivity of any arterial reflex area, the existing level of compensation by other barosensitive areas must be known.", "contents": "Rabbit cardiovascular responses to aortic nerve stimulation at fixed carotid pressure. In pentobarbital-anesthetized rabbits with aortic nerves cut, reflex heart rate and mean arterial pressure (MAP) changes were quantified in response to maximal central stimulation of the left aortic nerve (LANS) before and during steady-state changes in isolated carotid intrasinus pressure (ISP). To distinguish possible vagally mediated cardiopulmonary influences, responses were measured before and after vagotomy. Changes in MAP observed by altering ISP within +/- 15 mmHg of the equilibrium pressure (EP) were linear and inversely correlated to changes in ISP, with a slope of approximately 3 both before and after vagotomy (r greater than or equal to 0.929, P less than 0.05). The peak fall in MAP during LANS was dependent upon ISP. The change in the MAP responses to LANS for each mmHg change in ISP ranged from 1.7 with vagi intact to 1.3 after vagotomy. Heart rate was unaltered by isolation of the carotid sinus and was independent of the small changes in ISP between +/- 15 mmHg of EP. These results indicate that blood pressure changes elicited by the aortic baroreflex are extremely sensitive to the degree of carotid sinus compensation. Thus, to assess the sensitivity of any arterial reflex area, the existing level of compensation by other barosensitive areas must be known.", "PMID": 443398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6114", "title": "A tethering system for direct measurement of cardiovascular function in the caged baboon.", "content": "A device suitable for the continuous measurement of physiological activity in large, conscious monkeys has permitted the direct recording of systemic arterial blood pressure and heart rate in caged baboons. The device comprises a lightweight fiberglass backpack, retained in place on the baboon by a thoracic elastic band and shoulder straps, and a flexible stainless steel tether connecting the pack to an electrocannular slip-ring in the top center of the baboon's cage. A chronically indwelling arterial catheter inserted retrograde into the abdominal aorta via the internal iliac artery and connected to a small pressure transducer on the pack provides direct measurement of blood pressure and heart rate. Body fluids can be sampled or drugs administered via an indwelling catheter in the inferior vena cava. Electrical and fluid connections between the fiberglass pack and recording and infusion equipment located outside the cage pass through the flexible tether and remain protected from the subject. The reliability of the tethering system has been demonstrated in physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral experiments with baboons.", "contents": "A tethering system for direct measurement of cardiovascular function in the caged baboon. A device suitable for the continuous measurement of physiological activity in large, conscious monkeys has permitted the direct recording of systemic arterial blood pressure and heart rate in caged baboons. The device comprises a lightweight fiberglass backpack, retained in place on the baboon by a thoracic elastic band and shoulder straps, and a flexible stainless steel tether connecting the pack to an electrocannular slip-ring in the top center of the baboon's cage. A chronically indwelling arterial catheter inserted retrograde into the abdominal aorta via the internal iliac artery and connected to a small pressure transducer on the pack provides direct measurement of blood pressure and heart rate. Body fluids can be sampled or drugs administered via an indwelling catheter in the inferior vena cava. Electrical and fluid connections between the fiberglass pack and recording and infusion equipment located outside the cage pass through the flexible tether and remain protected from the subject. The reliability of the tethering system has been demonstrated in physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral experiments with baboons.", "PMID": 443399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6115", "title": "Simple analog circuitry for measuring time to peaks.", "content": "Two simple analog circuits are presented for measurement of time to the peak of a wave form. The principle involves measuring the voltage of a triggered and reset analog integrator.", "contents": "Simple analog circuitry for measuring time to peaks. Two simple analog circuits are presented for measurement of time to the peak of a wave form. The principle involves measuring the voltage of a triggered and reset analog integrator.", "PMID": 443400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6116", "title": "Complementarity vs. reduction as explanation of biological complexity.", "content": "The classical structure-function relation is presented as an example of an epistemological complementarity. Complementarity implies that a satisfactory explanation requires two modes of description, neither derivable from nor reducible to the other, as well as mutual incompatibility in a formal logical sense. Complementarity arose from the difficulty in describing conditional measurement processes in the language of causal microscopic laws of physics. Biological structure is associated with description in the language of physical laws, whereas biological function is associated with description of informational processes, i.e., measurement and control, that are complementary in the above sense. An explicit incompatibility between these two modes of description is that laws are expressed as rate-dependent equations, whereas informational processes are expressed as rate-independent nonintegrable constraints. The functional mode allows a simplification of structurally complex organization that is essential, not only for explanation, but for self-description at all levels of biological organization.", "contents": "Complementarity vs. reduction as explanation of biological complexity. The classical structure-function relation is presented as an example of an epistemological complementarity. Complementarity implies that a satisfactory explanation requires two modes of description, neither derivable from nor reducible to the other, as well as mutual incompatibility in a formal logical sense. Complementarity arose from the difficulty in describing conditional measurement processes in the language of causal microscopic laws of physics. Biological structure is associated with description in the language of physical laws, whereas biological function is associated with description of informational processes, i.e., measurement and control, that are complementary in the above sense. An explicit incompatibility between these two modes of description is that laws are expressed as rate-dependent equations, whereas informational processes are expressed as rate-independent nonintegrable constraints. The functional mode allows a simplification of structurally complex organization that is essential, not only for explanation, but for self-description at all levels of biological organization.", "PMID": 443402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6117", "title": "Fixed interval feeding does not entrain the circadian pacemaker in blind rats.", "content": "Male and female rats were blinded by orbital enucleation at 1 or 21 days of age and were housed along with intact controls in a temperature- and light-controlled room (22 +/- 2 degrees C, LD 12:12). At 40 days of age the rats were transferred to running wheel cages connected to an event recorder and their activity patterns were monitored for the next 11--16 wk. After 4--6 wk in the running wheels, the rats were subjected to a fixed interval feeding (FIF) schedule lasting 23 days followed by 4--6 wk of ad libitum feeding and watering. Of 19 blind rats with interpretable activity records, 14 showed no change in their activity patterns associated with the FIF other than the addition of a large component of activity before and after the feeding period every day. It was concluded that, in contrast to the squirrel monkey, FIF is not an important zeitgeber for blind rats.", "contents": "Fixed interval feeding does not entrain the circadian pacemaker in blind rats. Male and female rats were blinded by orbital enucleation at 1 or 21 days of age and were housed along with intact controls in a temperature- and light-controlled room (22 +/- 2 degrees C, LD 12:12). At 40 days of age the rats were transferred to running wheel cages connected to an event recorder and their activity patterns were monitored for the next 11--16 wk. After 4--6 wk in the running wheels, the rats were subjected to a fixed interval feeding (FIF) schedule lasting 23 days followed by 4--6 wk of ad libitum feeding and watering. Of 19 blind rats with interpretable activity records, 14 showed no change in their activity patterns associated with the FIF other than the addition of a large component of activity before and after the feeding period every day. It was concluded that, in contrast to the squirrel monkey, FIF is not an important zeitgeber for blind rats.", "PMID": 443404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6118", "title": "Response of supraoptic neurosecretory cells to changes in left atrial distension.", "content": "Acute studies were conducted in cats to determine the effects of small changes in left atrial pressure (LAP) on the activity of antidromically identified neurons in the supraoptic nucleus (SON). Inflation of left atrial balloons reproducibly altered the frequency of 15% of the SON neurons. More than half of these increased frequency, probably due to a simultaneous increase in arterial pressure. In a second series, the firing rates of 20% of the SON neurons tested were inversely related to changes in LAP produced by pumping blood into or out of the left atrium. A third series of experiments were conducted in which the left atrium was directly stretched by pulling on a suture placed in the atrial wall in addition to one of the above methods of changing LAP. Directly stretching the left atrium inhibited over 70% of the SON neurons; this included all the neurons that responded to changes in LAP. The results suggest that these SON neurons have differential sensitivities to inputs from left atrial receptors.", "contents": "Response of supraoptic neurosecretory cells to changes in left atrial distension. Acute studies were conducted in cats to determine the effects of small changes in left atrial pressure (LAP) on the activity of antidromically identified neurons in the supraoptic nucleus (SON). Inflation of left atrial balloons reproducibly altered the frequency of 15% of the SON neurons. More than half of these increased frequency, probably due to a simultaneous increase in arterial pressure. In a second series, the firing rates of 20% of the SON neurons tested were inversely related to changes in LAP produced by pumping blood into or out of the left atrium. A third series of experiments were conducted in which the left atrium was directly stretched by pulling on a suture placed in the atrial wall in addition to one of the above methods of changing LAP. Directly stretching the left atrium inhibited over 70% of the SON neurons; this included all the neurons that responded to changes in LAP. The results suggest that these SON neurons have differential sensitivities to inputs from left atrial receptors.", "PMID": 443405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6119", "title": "Analysis of circadian periodicity of plasma cortisol in normal man and in Cushing's syndrome.", "content": "In normal subjects, adjusted to a circadian environment, half-hourly plasma cortisol levels over a 24-h span (time series, TS) outline a circadian sinusoidal pattern that may be masked by superimposed short-lived oscillations. The periodogram objectively defines the features (amplitude, phase) of this pattern in individual TS and, more efficiently, in the average and concatenation of homogeneous TS. Concatenation is a procedure by which homogeneous short TS are attached one after the other. Homogeneity is inferred by variance analysis and by a new measure, h, with statistical significance, derived from the spectrum of the concatenated TS. Through concatenation, autocovariance for periodicity identification becomes possible. The TS from three groups of volunteers are highly homogeneous and have a predominant, statistically significant amplitude with peak time near 1100 h. The patterns from patients with Cushing's disease differ markedly in their means and periodic features; by the above criteria, we identify a subgroup with significant h measure and 24-h amplitude. This analysis provides a tool for investigation of the circadian clock in man.", "contents": "Analysis of circadian periodicity of plasma cortisol in normal man and in Cushing's syndrome. In normal subjects, adjusted to a circadian environment, half-hourly plasma cortisol levels over a 24-h span (time series, TS) outline a circadian sinusoidal pattern that may be masked by superimposed short-lived oscillations. The periodogram objectively defines the features (amplitude, phase) of this pattern in individual TS and, more efficiently, in the average and concatenation of homogeneous TS. Concatenation is a procedure by which homogeneous short TS are attached one after the other. Homogeneity is inferred by variance analysis and by a new measure, h, with statistical significance, derived from the spectrum of the concatenated TS. Through concatenation, autocovariance for periodicity identification becomes possible. The TS from three groups of volunteers are highly homogeneous and have a predominant, statistically significant amplitude with peak time near 1100 h. The patterns from patients with Cushing's disease differ markedly in their means and periodic features; by the above criteria, we identify a subgroup with significant h measure and 24-h amplitude. This analysis provides a tool for investigation of the circadian clock in man.", "PMID": 443406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6120", "title": "Development of dependence on oxygen in embryo salamanders.", "content": "Survival times in anoxia and hypoxia were measured at various stages of development in Ambystoma embryos and larvae of two species. Survival times in anoxia at 20 degrees C shifted from more than 30 h at 2 days after fertilization to 20 h at 10 days of age, to only 4--2 h at 14 days of age. In hypoxia (oxygen pressure equivalent to 3.8% oxygen) similar shifts of survival times appeared about 7 days of age later. During anoxia heart rates decreased, less at younger stages than at older. At older stages the heart stopped beating, sometimes irreversibly. In hypoxia also, hearts at all stages whether in situ or isolated decreased their rates of beat. Oxygen uptakes of larvae diminished in oxygen pressures even as high as 11% oxygen. This critical oxygen pressure did not change between early stages without blood flow and later stages with blood flow. Oxygen uptake was probably not limited by oxygen delivery but presumably by properties of cellular masses. No oxygen debts were paid off. Some parallel changes of tolerances to anoxia in embryo birds and mammals are noted.", "contents": "Development of dependence on oxygen in embryo salamanders. Survival times in anoxia and hypoxia were measured at various stages of development in Ambystoma embryos and larvae of two species. Survival times in anoxia at 20 degrees C shifted from more than 30 h at 2 days after fertilization to 20 h at 10 days of age, to only 4--2 h at 14 days of age. In hypoxia (oxygen pressure equivalent to 3.8% oxygen) similar shifts of survival times appeared about 7 days of age later. During anoxia heart rates decreased, less at younger stages than at older. At older stages the heart stopped beating, sometimes irreversibly. In hypoxia also, hearts at all stages whether in situ or isolated decreased their rates of beat. Oxygen uptakes of larvae diminished in oxygen pressures even as high as 11% oxygen. This critical oxygen pressure did not change between early stages without blood flow and later stages with blood flow. Oxygen uptake was probably not limited by oxygen delivery but presumably by properties of cellular masses. No oxygen debts were paid off. Some parallel changes of tolerances to anoxia in embryo birds and mammals are noted.", "PMID": 443407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6121", "title": "Mechanism of morphine-induced mydriasis in the cat.", "content": "Neurons that increased their firing rate in response to light stimulation were recorded from the pretectal region and the anterior oculomotor nucleus of sedated immobilized cats while morphine (2 mg/kg iv) was administered. The dose produced mydriasis and an increase in spontaneous firing rate of all light-sensitive neurons recorded from the anterior oculomotor nucleus. This suggested that morphine did not produce mydriasis through inhibition of the third nerve. Phenoxybenzamine, iv or topically, antagonized the mydriasis, indicating a peripheral source of sympathetic input as the basis for morphine-induced mydriasis. Morphine (2 mg/kg iv), administered 1 h after adrenalectomy, produced miosis and increased the spontaneous firing rate of light-sensitive neurons recorded from the oculomotor nucleus. These observations suggest that, in the cat, although morphine activates the oculomotor neurons to produce miosis, the effect is masked by the morphine-induced release of catecholamines, mainly from the adrenal glands, which produced mydriasis.", "contents": "Mechanism of morphine-induced mydriasis in the cat. Neurons that increased their firing rate in response to light stimulation were recorded from the pretectal region and the anterior oculomotor nucleus of sedated immobilized cats while morphine (2 mg/kg iv) was administered. The dose produced mydriasis and an increase in spontaneous firing rate of all light-sensitive neurons recorded from the anterior oculomotor nucleus. This suggested that morphine did not produce mydriasis through inhibition of the third nerve. Phenoxybenzamine, iv or topically, antagonized the mydriasis, indicating a peripheral source of sympathetic input as the basis for morphine-induced mydriasis. Morphine (2 mg/kg iv), administered 1 h after adrenalectomy, produced miosis and increased the spontaneous firing rate of light-sensitive neurons recorded from the oculomotor nucleus. These observations suggest that, in the cat, although morphine activates the oculomotor neurons to produce miosis, the effect is masked by the morphine-induced release of catecholamines, mainly from the adrenal glands, which produced mydriasis.", "PMID": 443408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6122", "title": "Renal function in Lophius americanus: effects of angiotensin II.", "content": "Arterial blood pressure, urine flow rate, and plasma and urine electrolytes were measured in the aglomerular goosefish (L. americanus) before, during, and after the intravenous infusion of angiotensin II (from 5 to 280 ng/min.kg body wt). Increases in arterial blood pressure were directly related to the logarithm of the angiotensin infusion rate (r = 0.62, P less than 0.005). Angiotensin also increased urine flow from 0.676 +/- 0.065 to 0.755 +/- 0.068 ml/h.kg body wt (P less than 0.005) and Na excretion from 41.0 +/- 5.5 to 54.4 +/- 7.0 mumol/h.kg body wt (P less than 0.001). In 17 of the 19 fish infused with angiotensin the diuretic and natriuretic effects were directly related to the logarithm of the infusion rate (r = 0.44, P less than 0.04 and r = 0.51, P less than 0.02, respectively). There was no relationship between the pressor and the diuretic or natriuretic effects of angiotensin II. These results are consistent with inhibitory effects of angiotensin on solute transport by aglomerular tubules.", "contents": "Renal function in Lophius americanus: effects of angiotensin II. Arterial blood pressure, urine flow rate, and plasma and urine electrolytes were measured in the aglomerular goosefish (L. americanus) before, during, and after the intravenous infusion of angiotensin II (from 5 to 280 ng/min.kg body wt). Increases in arterial blood pressure were directly related to the logarithm of the angiotensin infusion rate (r = 0.62, P less than 0.005). Angiotensin also increased urine flow from 0.676 +/- 0.065 to 0.755 +/- 0.068 ml/h.kg body wt (P less than 0.005) and Na excretion from 41.0 +/- 5.5 to 54.4 +/- 7.0 mumol/h.kg body wt (P less than 0.001). In 17 of the 19 fish infused with angiotensin the diuretic and natriuretic effects were directly related to the logarithm of the infusion rate (r = 0.44, P less than 0.04 and r = 0.51, P less than 0.02, respectively). There was no relationship between the pressor and the diuretic or natriuretic effects of angiotensin II. These results are consistent with inhibitory effects of angiotensin on solute transport by aglomerular tubules.", "PMID": 443409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6123", "title": "Newborn northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus)--do they suffer from cold?", "content": "Several hundred thousand northern fur seals (C. ursinus) are born each summer during July at St. Paul Island in the Bering Sea. The weather in the area is usually cold, wet, and windy during the breeding season. At birth the pups are small (5--6 kg) and insulated only by a partly wettable pelt and a 2- to 4-mm layer of blubber. In air, the pups' lower critical temperature appears to be below the 6 degrees C 50-yr record low July temperature for the islands. During rainy weather much of the insulative value of the pelt is lost, and the pups, which already have a high resting metabolic rate of 3.5 W.kg-1, must increase heat production by shivering and/or nonshivering thermogenesis to maintain deep body temperature. The high level of metabolism (up to 18 W.kg-1) is supported by a very rich milk. The pups will, nevertheless, become hypothermic if their insulation is not improved through peripheral vasoconstriction and shedding of water from the pelt by periodic shudder. Even with these protections the newborn and very young pups are brought close to their limit of tolerance during rainy and windy days. Unfit pups are likely to succumb under such circumstances.", "contents": "Newborn northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus)--do they suffer from cold? Several hundred thousand northern fur seals (C. ursinus) are born each summer during July at St. Paul Island in the Bering Sea. The weather in the area is usually cold, wet, and windy during the breeding season. At birth the pups are small (5--6 kg) and insulated only by a partly wettable pelt and a 2- to 4-mm layer of blubber. In air, the pups' lower critical temperature appears to be below the 6 degrees C 50-yr record low July temperature for the islands. During rainy weather much of the insulative value of the pelt is lost, and the pups, which already have a high resting metabolic rate of 3.5 W.kg-1, must increase heat production by shivering and/or nonshivering thermogenesis to maintain deep body temperature. The high level of metabolism (up to 18 W.kg-1) is supported by a very rich milk. The pups will, nevertheless, become hypothermic if their insulation is not improved through peripheral vasoconstriction and shedding of water from the pelt by periodic shudder. Even with these protections the newborn and very young pups are brought close to their limit of tolerance during rainy and windy days. Unfit pups are likely to succumb under such circumstances.", "PMID": 443411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6124", "title": "Preabsorptive intestinal satiety controls of food intake in pigs.", "content": "Pigs, 1--3 mo of age, weighing 5--80 kg, were fitted with duodenal, intraportal, or intrajugular catheters. After a 4-h fast, preloads were delivered to the duodenum, and food intake then measured for 10 min (no drinking water). Glucose (5--40%) and NaCl (0.9--6.5%) solutions were used as preloads (5 ml/kg body wt). Food intake expressed as percent control intake (Y) was depressed in proportion to preload concentration (X): for glucose, Y = 109 - 2X; for NaCl, Y = 107 - 13X. When expressed in osmoconcentration, glucose and NaCl preloads had nearly identical satiety effects. Preloads of 40% sorbitol depressed intake to 74% control. Intrathoracic vagotomy reduced the satiety effects of glucose and NaCl solutions by 50%. Tetracaine (0.5%) in the hypertonic preloads blocked 80% of the satiety effects of the glucose and NaCl preloads, but had no effect on sorbitol satiety effect. Injection of glucose or NaCl solutions into the portal or jugular veins had no significant effect. It was concluded that duodenal osmoconcentration to the degree that it exceeds body fluid tonicity contributes to the immediate satiety seen during a meal.", "contents": "Preabsorptive intestinal satiety controls of food intake in pigs. Pigs, 1--3 mo of age, weighing 5--80 kg, were fitted with duodenal, intraportal, or intrajugular catheters. After a 4-h fast, preloads were delivered to the duodenum, and food intake then measured for 10 min (no drinking water). Glucose (5--40%) and NaCl (0.9--6.5%) solutions were used as preloads (5 ml/kg body wt). Food intake expressed as percent control intake (Y) was depressed in proportion to preload concentration (X): for glucose, Y = 109 - 2X; for NaCl, Y = 107 - 13X. When expressed in osmoconcentration, glucose and NaCl preloads had nearly identical satiety effects. Preloads of 40% sorbitol depressed intake to 74% control. Intrathoracic vagotomy reduced the satiety effects of glucose and NaCl solutions by 50%. Tetracaine (0.5%) in the hypertonic preloads blocked 80% of the satiety effects of the glucose and NaCl preloads, but had no effect on sorbitol satiety effect. Injection of glucose or NaCl solutions into the portal or jugular veins had no significant effect. It was concluded that duodenal osmoconcentration to the degree that it exceeds body fluid tonicity contributes to the immediate satiety seen during a meal.", "PMID": 443412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6125", "title": "Seasonal changes in membrane lipid transitions and thyroid function in the hedgehog.", "content": "Upper (Tf) and lower (Ts) temperature limits of order-disorder transitions in blood cell lipids of hedgehogs, Erinaceus europaeus, were determined over an annual cycle. There was a significant decrease in the temperature of both Tf and Ts from values of 19 and 6 degrees C, respectively, for summer animals to values of 14 and -2.0 degrees C for winter animals. Plasma thyroxine levels decreased from a summer mean of 16.0 nmol/liter to a mean of 2.3 nmol/liter in winter. Basal oxygen consumption also decreased from the summer mean 0.45 ml/g body wt/h to a mean 0.39 ml/g body wt/h in winter. In winter a group of hedgehogs kept indoors at room temperature was compared with a group kept outdoors exposed to natural winter conditions, and there was no significant difference between them in the above parameters. We conclude that the winter membrane lipid and metabolic changes are not a response to low temperature per se but part of a circannual homeostatic adjustment at least partly regulated by thyroid hormone.", "contents": "Seasonal changes in membrane lipid transitions and thyroid function in the hedgehog. Upper (Tf) and lower (Ts) temperature limits of order-disorder transitions in blood cell lipids of hedgehogs, Erinaceus europaeus, were determined over an annual cycle. There was a significant decrease in the temperature of both Tf and Ts from values of 19 and 6 degrees C, respectively, for summer animals to values of 14 and -2.0 degrees C for winter animals. Plasma thyroxine levels decreased from a summer mean of 16.0 nmol/liter to a mean of 2.3 nmol/liter in winter. Basal oxygen consumption also decreased from the summer mean 0.45 ml/g body wt/h to a mean 0.39 ml/g body wt/h in winter. In winter a group of hedgehogs kept indoors at room temperature was compared with a group kept outdoors exposed to natural winter conditions, and there was no significant difference between them in the above parameters. We conclude that the winter membrane lipid and metabolic changes are not a response to low temperature per se but part of a circannual homeostatic adjustment at least partly regulated by thyroid hormone.", "PMID": 443413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6126", "title": "Amino acid transport in isolated hepatocytes after partial hepatectomy in the rat.", "content": "The effect of partial (70%) hepatectomy on amino acid transport was investigated by measuring the uptake of the nonmetabolizable amino acid analogue alpha-amino-[1(-14C]isobutyric acid in hepatocytes freshly isolated from the liver remnant. In hepatocytes from partially hepatectomized rats, both the influx and the efflux of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid were increased. Quantitative analysis of the relationship between the initial rate of uptake and the substrate concentration indicated that a high-affinity component was responsible for the increased rate of amino acid entry in hepatocytes from partially hepatectomized rats. This component could be detected 90 min after operation, but its Vmax increased with time. The high-affinity component was strictly dependent on sodium and had the properties of a pure A system; its mode of energization partly involved cationic transmembrane gradients. The L system of amino acid transport was not affected after partial hepatectomy. The rapid emergence of a high-affinity amino acid transport system in the liver remnant following partial hepatectomy may play an important role in the regulation of liver regeneration.", "contents": "Amino acid transport in isolated hepatocytes after partial hepatectomy in the rat. The effect of partial (70%) hepatectomy on amino acid transport was investigated by measuring the uptake of the nonmetabolizable amino acid analogue alpha-amino-[1(-14C]isobutyric acid in hepatocytes freshly isolated from the liver remnant. In hepatocytes from partially hepatectomized rats, both the influx and the efflux of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid were increased. Quantitative analysis of the relationship between the initial rate of uptake and the substrate concentration indicated that a high-affinity component was responsible for the increased rate of amino acid entry in hepatocytes from partially hepatectomized rats. This component could be detected 90 min after operation, but its Vmax increased with time. The high-affinity component was strictly dependent on sodium and had the properties of a pure A system; its mode of energization partly involved cationic transmembrane gradients. The L system of amino acid transport was not affected after partial hepatectomy. The rapid emergence of a high-affinity amino acid transport system in the liver remnant following partial hepatectomy may play an important role in the regulation of liver regeneration.", "PMID": 443414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6127", "title": "Role of hepatic portal osmoreception in the control of ADH release.", "content": "Dogs were prepared for experiments by chronic implantation of catheters into the hepatic portal vein. Intraportal infusions of hypertonic saline, 5 ml/min, increased plasma antidiuretic hormones (rat bioassay) in absence of significant changes in systemic plasma osmolality. In the 5th min of 1.8, 2.7, or 3.6% saline infusion, plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) increased significantly from 3.2 +/- 0.7 to 14.3 +/- 3.6 (SE) microU/ml, from 2.3 +/- 0.4 to 42.0 +/- 7.6 microU/ml, and from 1.9 +/- 0.6 to 64.4 +/- 16.8 microU/ml, respectively. In control experiments plasma ADH did not change with isotonic saline infused intraportally or with 3.6% saline given into a systemic vein. The transsection of hepatic vagal afferent fibers abolished plasma ADH increase dependent on hypertonic intraportal infusion. The data support the existence of osmoreceptors within the portal vascular bed and indicate ADH involvement in the control of fluid balance by intrahepatic blood osmalality. The information on osmolality changes is neurally transmitted to the hypothalamus via hepatic vagal afferents. A demonstration of an increase in portal but not systemic blood osmolality following food intake suggests that intrahepatic osmoreception may be important in physiological regulation of water metabolism.", "contents": "Role of hepatic portal osmoreception in the control of ADH release. Dogs were prepared for experiments by chronic implantation of catheters into the hepatic portal vein. Intraportal infusions of hypertonic saline, 5 ml/min, increased plasma antidiuretic hormones (rat bioassay) in absence of significant changes in systemic plasma osmolality. In the 5th min of 1.8, 2.7, or 3.6% saline infusion, plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) increased significantly from 3.2 +/- 0.7 to 14.3 +/- 3.6 (SE) microU/ml, from 2.3 +/- 0.4 to 42.0 +/- 7.6 microU/ml, and from 1.9 +/- 0.6 to 64.4 +/- 16.8 microU/ml, respectively. In control experiments plasma ADH did not change with isotonic saline infused intraportally or with 3.6% saline given into a systemic vein. The transsection of hepatic vagal afferent fibers abolished plasma ADH increase dependent on hypertonic intraportal infusion. The data support the existence of osmoreceptors within the portal vascular bed and indicate ADH involvement in the control of fluid balance by intrahepatic blood osmalality. The information on osmolality changes is neurally transmitted to the hypothalamus via hepatic vagal afferents. A demonstration of an increase in portal but not systemic blood osmolality following food intake suggests that intrahepatic osmoreception may be important in physiological regulation of water metabolism.", "PMID": 443415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6128", "title": "Anteroventral third ventricle lesions reduce antidiuretic responses to angiotensin II.", "content": "Ablation of anteroventral third ventricle (AV3V) periventricular tissue renders animals temporarily adipsic with no compensatory change in urine volume or concentration. The present experiment was designed to determine whether lesions of the AV3V region attenuate vasopressin (AVP) release in response to intraventricular (ivt) injections of angiotensin II (AII), hypertonic NaCl, and phenylephrine during the adipsic period. Blood pressure, urine conductance, and urine flow rate were monitored in awake, unrestrained animals during a continuous intravenous hydrating infusion. Changes in blood pressure and urine parameters were recorded following ivt injections of 100 ng AII, 500 ng AII, 1 microliter 3% NaCl, and 50 microgram phenylephrine. In addition, a radioimmunoassay (RIA) measured AVP following 500 ng AII ivt in lesioned and nonlesioned animals. Antidiuretic and pressor responses to ivt AII were attenuated after AV3V lesions. In addition, RIA analysis showed a significantly smaller concentration of AVP in lesioned animals following AII injections. These data suggest that the AV3V region is important for AVP release in response to central AII and osmotic stimuli.", "contents": "Anteroventral third ventricle lesions reduce antidiuretic responses to angiotensin II. Ablation of anteroventral third ventricle (AV3V) periventricular tissue renders animals temporarily adipsic with no compensatory change in urine volume or concentration. The present experiment was designed to determine whether lesions of the AV3V region attenuate vasopressin (AVP) release in response to intraventricular (ivt) injections of angiotensin II (AII), hypertonic NaCl, and phenylephrine during the adipsic period. Blood pressure, urine conductance, and urine flow rate were monitored in awake, unrestrained animals during a continuous intravenous hydrating infusion. Changes in blood pressure and urine parameters were recorded following ivt injections of 100 ng AII, 500 ng AII, 1 microliter 3% NaCl, and 50 microgram phenylephrine. In addition, a radioimmunoassay (RIA) measured AVP following 500 ng AII ivt in lesioned and nonlesioned animals. Antidiuretic and pressor responses to ivt AII were attenuated after AV3V lesions. In addition, RIA analysis showed a significantly smaller concentration of AVP in lesioned animals following AII injections. These data suggest that the AV3V region is important for AVP release in response to central AII and osmotic stimuli.", "PMID": 443416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6129", "title": "Hemodynamics and metabolism of the in vivo vascularly isolated canine pancreas.", "content": "Surgical procedures are detailed that have yielded for the first time an in vivo vascularly isolated, autoperfused preparation of the entire pancreas in anesthetized dogs. Previous studies had isolated only part of the pancreas or had resorted to blood-flow techniques not requiring pooled pancreatic venous blood, necessary for metabolic studies of the organ. Pancreatic blood flow (48 ml/min), O2 uptake (180 mumol/min), glucose uptake (51.0 mumol/min), lactate output (6.6 mumol/min), net free fatty acid uptake (2.23 mumol/min), all per 100 g tissue, and various other measured and calculated hemodynamic and metabolic variables were determined on the preparation during control conditions. The stability of the preparation was verified by serial determinations of these parameters and of blood alpha-amylase and beta-glucuronidase levels from 1 to 2.5 h postsurgery. Metabolic rate and glucose uptake were both found to be much higher than in intestinal tissues and approached values characteristic of liver tissue.", "contents": "Hemodynamics and metabolism of the in vivo vascularly isolated canine pancreas. Surgical procedures are detailed that have yielded for the first time an in vivo vascularly isolated, autoperfused preparation of the entire pancreas in anesthetized dogs. Previous studies had isolated only part of the pancreas or had resorted to blood-flow techniques not requiring pooled pancreatic venous blood, necessary for metabolic studies of the organ. Pancreatic blood flow (48 ml/min), O2 uptake (180 mumol/min), glucose uptake (51.0 mumol/min), lactate output (6.6 mumol/min), net free fatty acid uptake (2.23 mumol/min), all per 100 g tissue, and various other measured and calculated hemodynamic and metabolic variables were determined on the preparation during control conditions. The stability of the preparation was verified by serial determinations of these parameters and of blood alpha-amylase and beta-glucuronidase levels from 1 to 2.5 h postsurgery. Metabolic rate and glucose uptake were both found to be much higher than in intestinal tissues and approached values characteristic of liver tissue.", "PMID": 443418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6130", "title": "Galactose metabolism in isolated perfused suckling-rat liver.", "content": "The metabolic conversion of 1, 2, or 4 mM galactose to glucose was studied in isolated livers of suckling rats. Whereas galactose uptake during perfusion with 1 and 2 mM galactose was linear throughout the 90-min experiment, uptake was delayed for 35 min when 4 mM galactose was perfused. Studies with radioactive galactose revealed a parallel disappearance of galactose and the appearance of [14C]glucose; about 80% of the galactose taken up was converted to glucose. Galactose perfusion appeared to reduce the basal amount of glucose derived from substrates other than galactose. The specific activities in the galactose-perfused livers of the three major galactose metabolizing enzymes, galactokinase, galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase, and uridine diphosphogalactose-4-epimerase, revealed that the transferase was significantly lower, whereas that of galactokinase and epimerase were significantly higher than in livers perfused without galactose. No meaningful changes were observed in the levels of either phosphorylated or uridylated hexoses in these studies.", "contents": "Galactose metabolism in isolated perfused suckling-rat liver. The metabolic conversion of 1, 2, or 4 mM galactose to glucose was studied in isolated livers of suckling rats. Whereas galactose uptake during perfusion with 1 and 2 mM galactose was linear throughout the 90-min experiment, uptake was delayed for 35 min when 4 mM galactose was perfused. Studies with radioactive galactose revealed a parallel disappearance of galactose and the appearance of [14C]glucose; about 80% of the galactose taken up was converted to glucose. Galactose perfusion appeared to reduce the basal amount of glucose derived from substrates other than galactose. The specific activities in the galactose-perfused livers of the three major galactose metabolizing enzymes, galactokinase, galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase, and uridine diphosphogalactose-4-epimerase, revealed that the transferase was significantly lower, whereas that of galactokinase and epimerase were significantly higher than in livers perfused without galactose. No meaningful changes were observed in the levels of either phosphorylated or uridylated hexoses in these studies.", "PMID": 443419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6131", "title": "Partial purification of dog angiotensinogen.", "content": "Dog angiotensinogen was purified 450-fold from the plasma of nephrectomized dogs by a simple four-step procedure involving precipitation between 1.5 and 2.3 M ammonium sulfate, gel filtration on Sephadex G-150, ion-exchange chromatography on DE-52 cellulose, and affinity chromatography on Concanavalin A-Sepharose. The purity of the final preparation was over 50%. The preparation of dog angiotensinogen had an apparent molecular weight of 80,000 determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. Kinetic studies indicated that the Km of the reaction of dog renin with partially purified dog angiotensinogen (1,840 pmol/ml) was similar to that for the reaction with angiotensinogen in diluted dog plasma (1,820 pmol/ml). Thus the purification procedures employed did not alter the affinity of dog renin for the Leu10-Leu11 bond of dog angiotensinogen. Because the concentration of angiotensinogen in dog plasma is about 700 pmol/ml, a first order reaction with respect to substrate is indicated in vivo.", "contents": "Partial purification of dog angiotensinogen. Dog angiotensinogen was purified 450-fold from the plasma of nephrectomized dogs by a simple four-step procedure involving precipitation between 1.5 and 2.3 M ammonium sulfate, gel filtration on Sephadex G-150, ion-exchange chromatography on DE-52 cellulose, and affinity chromatography on Concanavalin A-Sepharose. The purity of the final preparation was over 50%. The preparation of dog angiotensinogen had an apparent molecular weight of 80,000 determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. Kinetic studies indicated that the Km of the reaction of dog renin with partially purified dog angiotensinogen (1,840 pmol/ml) was similar to that for the reaction with angiotensinogen in diluted dog plasma (1,820 pmol/ml). Thus the purification procedures employed did not alter the affinity of dog renin for the Leu10-Leu11 bond of dog angiotensinogen. Because the concentration of angiotensinogen in dog plasma is about 700 pmol/ml, a first order reaction with respect to substrate is indicated in vivo.", "PMID": 443420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6132", "title": "Quantitative estimation of insulin sensitivity.", "content": "We have evaluated the feasibility of using a mathematical model of glucose disappearance to estimate insulin sensitivity. Glucose was injected into conscious dogs at 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg. The measured time course of insulin was regarded as the \"input,\" and the falling glucose concentration as the \"output\" of the physiological system storing and using glucose. Seven mathematical models of glucose uptake were compared to identify the representation most capable of simulating glucose disappearance. One specific nonlinear model was superior in that it 1) predicted the time course of glucose after glucose injection, 2) had four parameters that could be precisely estimated, and 3) described individual experiments with similar parameter values. Insulin sensitivity index (SI), defined as the dependence of fractional glucose disappearance on plasma insulin, was the ratio of two parameters of the chosen model and could be estimated with good reproducibility from the 300 mg/kg injection experiments (SI = 7.00 X 10(-4) +/- 24% (coefficient of variation) min-1/(microU/ml) (n = 8)). Thus, from a single glucose injection it is possible to obtain a quantitative index of insulin sensitivity that may have clinical applicability.", "contents": "Quantitative estimation of insulin sensitivity. We have evaluated the feasibility of using a mathematical model of glucose disappearance to estimate insulin sensitivity. Glucose was injected into conscious dogs at 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg. The measured time course of insulin was regarded as the \"input,\" and the falling glucose concentration as the \"output\" of the physiological system storing and using glucose. Seven mathematical models of glucose uptake were compared to identify the representation most capable of simulating glucose disappearance. One specific nonlinear model was superior in that it 1) predicted the time course of glucose after glucose injection, 2) had four parameters that could be precisely estimated, and 3) described individual experiments with similar parameter values. Insulin sensitivity index (SI), defined as the dependence of fractional glucose disappearance on plasma insulin, was the ratio of two parameters of the chosen model and could be estimated with good reproducibility from the 300 mg/kg injection experiments (SI = 7.00 X 10(-4) +/- 24% (coefficient of variation) min-1/(microU/ml) (n = 8)). Thus, from a single glucose injection it is possible to obtain a quantitative index of insulin sensitivity that may have clinical applicability.", "PMID": 443421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6133", "title": "Unstirred water layer and age-dependent changes in rabbit jejunal D-glucose transport.", "content": "The unidirectional flux of solutes into the intestinal mucosal cell is determined by passage through the microvillus membrane and the overlying unstirred water layer, UWL. An in vitro technique was employed to determine the effect of the UWL on glucose transport into the jejunum of suckling, mature, and old rabbits. When the resistance of UWL was high, the uptake from high concentrations of glucose increased as the animals grew older; this change with aging was not seen from low concentrations of glucose. When UWL resistance was minimized by stirring the bulk phase, similar amounts of glucose were absorbed from high doses, but uptake from low doses was greater in young than in old animals. Studies undertaken to determine the kinetic basis of these age-related changes showed that with increasing age i) the apparent passive permeability coefficient P of glucose fell, ii) the maximum transport rate Jdmax rose, and iii) the apparent affinity constant Km increased. These differences were not observed when the resistance of the UWL was high: P and Km were similar in suckling, mature, and old animals, and the increase in glucose uptake with age was due to the greater Jdmax. Thus the potential benefit of the high affinity, high permeability transport system of young animals may be obscured by high resistance of the UWL.", "contents": "Unstirred water layer and age-dependent changes in rabbit jejunal D-glucose transport. The unidirectional flux of solutes into the intestinal mucosal cell is determined by passage through the microvillus membrane and the overlying unstirred water layer, UWL. An in vitro technique was employed to determine the effect of the UWL on glucose transport into the jejunum of suckling, mature, and old rabbits. When the resistance of UWL was high, the uptake from high concentrations of glucose increased as the animals grew older; this change with aging was not seen from low concentrations of glucose. When UWL resistance was minimized by stirring the bulk phase, similar amounts of glucose were absorbed from high doses, but uptake from low doses was greater in young than in old animals. Studies undertaken to determine the kinetic basis of these age-related changes showed that with increasing age i) the apparent passive permeability coefficient P of glucose fell, ii) the maximum transport rate Jdmax rose, and iii) the apparent affinity constant Km increased. These differences were not observed when the resistance of the UWL was high: P and Km were similar in suckling, mature, and old animals, and the increase in glucose uptake with age was due to the greater Jdmax. Thus the potential benefit of the high affinity, high permeability transport system of young animals may be obscured by high resistance of the UWL.", "PMID": 443423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6134", "title": "Permeation of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols in rat intestine.", "content": "Uptake of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols from micellar bile salt solutions has been studied with everted sacs of rat jejunum. These unidirectional uptake rates are linearly related to lipid concentration if bile salt concentration is constant, but are essentially independent of lipid concentration over a 2.5-fold concentration range if lipid and bile salt concentrations are maintained at a constant ratio. Uptake of lipid from various micellar bile salt solutions was directly related to the experimentally varied monomer activity of solute, thus allowing conversion of uptake rates to permeation coefficients. Natural logarithm of permeation coefficients (ln P) increased linearly for saturated fatty acids of 12--18 carbons, equivalent to an incremental free energy of -695 cal.mol-1 per --CH2--. Alcohols of 10- to 14-carbon chain lengths had a similar relationship on ln P to number of carbons. Previously determined permeation coefficients for fatty acids of 2--10 carbons are now seen to be a nonlinear portion of the curve for ln P versus chain length for all saturated fatty acids.", "contents": "Permeation of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols in rat intestine. Uptake of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols from micellar bile salt solutions has been studied with everted sacs of rat jejunum. These unidirectional uptake rates are linearly related to lipid concentration if bile salt concentration is constant, but are essentially independent of lipid concentration over a 2.5-fold concentration range if lipid and bile salt concentrations are maintained at a constant ratio. Uptake of lipid from various micellar bile salt solutions was directly related to the experimentally varied monomer activity of solute, thus allowing conversion of uptake rates to permeation coefficients. Natural logarithm of permeation coefficients (ln P) increased linearly for saturated fatty acids of 12--18 carbons, equivalent to an incremental free energy of -695 cal.mol-1 per --CH2--. Alcohols of 10- to 14-carbon chain lengths had a similar relationship on ln P to number of carbons. Previously determined permeation coefficients for fatty acids of 2--10 carbons are now seen to be a nonlinear portion of the curve for ln P versus chain length for all saturated fatty acids.", "PMID": 443425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6135", "title": "Stimulation and blockade of cholinergic receptors in terminal liver microcirculation in rats.", "content": "This study was designed to establish the existence of cholinergic vascular receptors in the terminal portion of the rat liver microcirculation. The liver microcirculation was observed in vivo by a transillumination technique through a television microscope. The changes in the caliber of the liver sinusoids were measured directly on the television screen. Infusion of the parasympathetic neurotransmitter acetylcholine into the portal venous circulation caused a concentration-dependent dilation of liver sinusoids. Similar dilatation effects were observed for other cholinergic receptor agonists. Atropine, the specific cholinergic receptor blocker, inhibited this dilator effect, displacing the acetylcholine concentration-effect curve to the right. In contrast, physostigmine, the cholinesterase inhibitor, caused displacement of the curve to the left. In conclusion, cholinergic receptors are present in the terminal portion of the liver microcirculation, subserving the functional role of vasodilatation.", "contents": "Stimulation and blockade of cholinergic receptors in terminal liver microcirculation in rats. This study was designed to establish the existence of cholinergic vascular receptors in the terminal portion of the rat liver microcirculation. The liver microcirculation was observed in vivo by a transillumination technique through a television microscope. The changes in the caliber of the liver sinusoids were measured directly on the television screen. Infusion of the parasympathetic neurotransmitter acetylcholine into the portal venous circulation caused a concentration-dependent dilation of liver sinusoids. Similar dilatation effects were observed for other cholinergic receptor agonists. Atropine, the specific cholinergic receptor blocker, inhibited this dilator effect, displacing the acetylcholine concentration-effect curve to the right. In contrast, physostigmine, the cholinesterase inhibitor, caused displacement of the curve to the left. In conclusion, cholinergic receptors are present in the terminal portion of the liver microcirculation, subserving the functional role of vasodilatation.", "PMID": 443426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6136", "title": "A reciprocal adrenergic-cholinergic axoaxonic synapse in the mammalian gut.", "content": "Simultaneous stimulation of perivascular nerves inhibited the release of acetylcholine from stimulated cholinergic nerves of the rabbit jejunum. Adrenergic nerves were responsible for this inhibition because it did not occur in animals previously injected with 6-hydroxydopamine. Acetylcholine inhibited the release of transmitter from stimulated adrenergic axons; this effect was blocked by atropine. Since atropine enhanced the release of adrenergic transmitter when both adrenergic and cholinergic nerves were activated simultaneously (at 4.0 Hz), it seems likely that cholinergic nerves also inhibit release of norepinephrine (NE). Radioautographic examination of the myenteric plexus, incubated with tritiated NE, revealed a striking marginal distribution of adrenergic axons around the periphery of the myenteric plexus. Ultrastructural studies, with KMnO4 used to identify adrenergic terminal varicosities, confirmed this distribution and also revealed complexes formed between the terminal varicosities of adrenergic and probable cholinergic axons. The component varicosities forming these complexes contacted one another with no intervening Schwann cell elements. It is concluded that there is a reciprocal axoaxonic synapse between adrenergic and cholinergic neurons in the mammalian myenteric plexus.", "contents": "A reciprocal adrenergic-cholinergic axoaxonic synapse in the mammalian gut. Simultaneous stimulation of perivascular nerves inhibited the release of acetylcholine from stimulated cholinergic nerves of the rabbit jejunum. Adrenergic nerves were responsible for this inhibition because it did not occur in animals previously injected with 6-hydroxydopamine. Acetylcholine inhibited the release of transmitter from stimulated adrenergic axons; this effect was blocked by atropine. Since atropine enhanced the release of adrenergic transmitter when both adrenergic and cholinergic nerves were activated simultaneously (at 4.0 Hz), it seems likely that cholinergic nerves also inhibit release of norepinephrine (NE). Radioautographic examination of the myenteric plexus, incubated with tritiated NE, revealed a striking marginal distribution of adrenergic axons around the periphery of the myenteric plexus. Ultrastructural studies, with KMnO4 used to identify adrenergic terminal varicosities, confirmed this distribution and also revealed complexes formed between the terminal varicosities of adrenergic and probable cholinergic axons. The component varicosities forming these complexes contacted one another with no intervening Schwann cell elements. It is concluded that there is a reciprocal axoaxonic synapse between adrenergic and cholinergic neurons in the mammalian myenteric plexus.", "PMID": 443427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6137", "title": "Effect of extracellular calcium on amylase release from dispersed pancreatic acini.", "content": "In dispersed acini prepared from guinea pig pancreas, removing extracellular calcium did not alter the basal rate of amylase release but reduced the stimulation of enzyme release caused by cholecystokinin, carbachol, secretin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide as well as that caused by derivatives of cyclic nucleotides. In acini incubated in a calcium-free, EGTA-containing medium the increase in amylase release caused by each secretagogue tested did not change during the initial 10 min of incubation, decreased by approximately 65% during the subsequent 40 min, and remained constant thereafter. Removing extracellular calcium did not alter the maximally effective concentrations of cholecystokinin or vasoactive intestinal peptide but abolished the decrease in stimulated enzyme secretion seen with supramaximal concentrations of cholecystokinin. Incubating pancreatic acini with cholecystokinin or carbachol plus secretin or vasoactive intestinal peptide caused potentiation of amylase release, and removing extracellular calcium reduced the stimulation of enzyme release caused by the two secretagogues in combination but did not alter their potentiating interactions.", "contents": "Effect of extracellular calcium on amylase release from dispersed pancreatic acini. In dispersed acini prepared from guinea pig pancreas, removing extracellular calcium did not alter the basal rate of amylase release but reduced the stimulation of enzyme release caused by cholecystokinin, carbachol, secretin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide as well as that caused by derivatives of cyclic nucleotides. In acini incubated in a calcium-free, EGTA-containing medium the increase in amylase release caused by each secretagogue tested did not change during the initial 10 min of incubation, decreased by approximately 65% during the subsequent 40 min, and remained constant thereafter. Removing extracellular calcium did not alter the maximally effective concentrations of cholecystokinin or vasoactive intestinal peptide but abolished the decrease in stimulated enzyme secretion seen with supramaximal concentrations of cholecystokinin. Incubating pancreatic acini with cholecystokinin or carbachol plus secretin or vasoactive intestinal peptide caused potentiation of amylase release, and removing extracellular calcium reduced the stimulation of enzyme release caused by the two secretagogues in combination but did not alter their potentiating interactions.", "PMID": 443428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6138", "title": "Stimulation of iron absorption by polychlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons.", "content": "Oral and intraperitoneal treatment of rats with a single dose of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), 33 microgram/kg, causes a 41--67% increase in iron adsorption in vivo. The major effect is on the transfer of iron from the mucosa into the bloodstream rather than on the uptake of iron from the lumen of the gut. These results are confirmed in studies with everted gut sacs. The effect is maximal at 1--2 days with a dose of 22-42 microgram/kg. Calcium transport is inhibited by TCDD treatment, whereas galactose and proline transport are unaffected. Treatment of rats with 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane also stimulates iron transport. Concomitant with iron transport stimulation, aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity in the intestine and liver is increased by TCDD treatment. These studies suggest that polychlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons, which are environmental health hazards, may effect the intestinal absorption of essential mineral nutrients.", "contents": "Stimulation of iron absorption by polychlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons. Oral and intraperitoneal treatment of rats with a single dose of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), 33 microgram/kg, causes a 41--67% increase in iron adsorption in vivo. The major effect is on the transfer of iron from the mucosa into the bloodstream rather than on the uptake of iron from the lumen of the gut. These results are confirmed in studies with everted gut sacs. The effect is maximal at 1--2 days with a dose of 22-42 microgram/kg. Calcium transport is inhibited by TCDD treatment, whereas galactose and proline transport are unaffected. Treatment of rats with 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane also stimulates iron transport. Concomitant with iron transport stimulation, aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity in the intestine and liver is increased by TCDD treatment. These studies suggest that polychlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons, which are environmental health hazards, may effect the intestinal absorption of essential mineral nutrients.", "PMID": 443429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6139", "title": "Effect of age on intestinal calcium absorption and adaptation to dietary calcium.", "content": "To study the reported decline in intestinal calcium absorption with age, calcium active transport, immunoreactive calcium protein (CaBP) content, and alkaline phosphatase activity were measured in the intestine of two strains of rats aged 3-wk--20 mo. Calcium active transport, as measured by everted gut sacs from Sprague-Dawley rats, was greatest at 3 wk, but it declined rapidly with no active transport demonstrable at 3 mo or thereafter. CaBP content closely paralleled the decline in active transport, but alkaline phosphatase activity increased as active transport decreased. Intestinal adaptation to dietary calcium was studied by feeding high- and low-calcium diets to Fischer 344 rats aged 1.5--12 mo. In 1.5-mo-old rats fed a low-calcium diet, there was an increase in calcium active transport, CaBP content, and alkaline phosphatase activity relative to animals fed a high-calcium diet. However, the magnitude of this intestinal adaptation decreased with age until there was only marginal adaptation by 12 mo. The observed changes in calcium active transport with age and diet may be explained by the parallel changes in the vitamin D-dependent CaBP content of the intestine.", "contents": "Effect of age on intestinal calcium absorption and adaptation to dietary calcium. To study the reported decline in intestinal calcium absorption with age, calcium active transport, immunoreactive calcium protein (CaBP) content, and alkaline phosphatase activity were measured in the intestine of two strains of rats aged 3-wk--20 mo. Calcium active transport, as measured by everted gut sacs from Sprague-Dawley rats, was greatest at 3 wk, but it declined rapidly with no active transport demonstrable at 3 mo or thereafter. CaBP content closely paralleled the decline in active transport, but alkaline phosphatase activity increased as active transport decreased. Intestinal adaptation to dietary calcium was studied by feeding high- and low-calcium diets to Fischer 344 rats aged 1.5--12 mo. In 1.5-mo-old rats fed a low-calcium diet, there was an increase in calcium active transport, CaBP content, and alkaline phosphatase activity relative to animals fed a high-calcium diet. However, the magnitude of this intestinal adaptation decreased with age until there was only marginal adaptation by 12 mo. The observed changes in calcium active transport with age and diet may be explained by the parallel changes in the vitamin D-dependent CaBP content of the intestine.", "PMID": 443430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6140", "title": "Response of Amphiuma small intestine to theophylline: effect on bicarbonate transport.", "content": "The electrolyte transport properties of isolated proximal segments of Amphiuma small intestine and their response to theophylline were observed under various conditions. In the absence of theophylline the intestine generates a transepithelial potential (psi ms) serosa negative to mucosa when Cl- and HCO3- are present in the bath. Replacement of Cl- or HCO3- reduced the magnitude and usually reversed the sign of psi ms. Acetazolamide (10(-4) M) nearly abolished the serosa negative psi ms. Theophylline (10 mM) drove psi ms serosa positive, the magnitude depending on the bath Na+ and HCO3- concentrations. Simultaneously it increased the short-circuit current (Isc) and tissue resistance (Rt). The increase in Isc was not due to increase net Na+ transport in Cl-free buffer and was attributed to a residual ion flux. Acetazolamide reduced the Isc, Rt, and the net residual flux observed in theophylline-treated intestine. The magnitude of the acetazolamine effect on Isc was proportional to the Na+ and HCO3- concentrations of the bath. The results suggest that in the absence of theophylline, HCO3-, and Cl- transport are related. Furthermore, acetazolamide inhibits the movement of an ion, possibly HCO3-, secreted in response to theophylline.", "contents": "Response of Amphiuma small intestine to theophylline: effect on bicarbonate transport. The electrolyte transport properties of isolated proximal segments of Amphiuma small intestine and their response to theophylline were observed under various conditions. In the absence of theophylline the intestine generates a transepithelial potential (psi ms) serosa negative to mucosa when Cl- and HCO3- are present in the bath. Replacement of Cl- or HCO3- reduced the magnitude and usually reversed the sign of psi ms. Acetazolamide (10(-4) M) nearly abolished the serosa negative psi ms. Theophylline (10 mM) drove psi ms serosa positive, the magnitude depending on the bath Na+ and HCO3- concentrations. Simultaneously it increased the short-circuit current (Isc) and tissue resistance (Rt). The increase in Isc was not due to increase net Na+ transport in Cl-free buffer and was attributed to a residual ion flux. Acetazolamide reduced the Isc, Rt, and the net residual flux observed in theophylline-treated intestine. The magnitude of the acetazolamine effect on Isc was proportional to the Na+ and HCO3- concentrations of the bath. The results suggest that in the absence of theophylline, HCO3-, and Cl- transport are related. Furthermore, acetazolamide inhibits the movement of an ion, possibly HCO3-, secreted in response to theophylline.", "PMID": 443431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6141", "title": "PGE1-induced intestinal secretion: mechanism of enhanced transmucosal protein efflux.", "content": "The effects of local intra-arterial prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) infusion on net transmucosal volume and protein fluxes, lymphatic volume and protein fluxes, and regional hemodynamics were ascertained in autoperfused segments of cat ileum. After acquiring control values (and tissue samples) for the various parameters, PGE1 (5.0 microgram/min) was infused directly into the superior mesenteric artery. The PGE1 infusions resulted in dramatic increases in ileal lymphatic volume and protein fluxes and blood flow. Infusion of PGE1 caused a reversion of net mucosal volume absorption to net secretion and an increased loss of plasma proteins into the lumen. Ultrastructural analysis of tissue samples taken during the PGE1 infusion indicate major structural damage to the mucosal membrane. The physiological and ultrastructural data acquired in this study suggest that 1) the increased transmucosal protein efflux during intra-arterial PGE1 infusions results from an alteration in mucosal transcapillary fluid exchange and 2) a significant portion of PGE1-induced ileal secretion is passively mediated.", "contents": "PGE1-induced intestinal secretion: mechanism of enhanced transmucosal protein efflux. The effects of local intra-arterial prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) infusion on net transmucosal volume and protein fluxes, lymphatic volume and protein fluxes, and regional hemodynamics were ascertained in autoperfused segments of cat ileum. After acquiring control values (and tissue samples) for the various parameters, PGE1 (5.0 microgram/min) was infused directly into the superior mesenteric artery. The PGE1 infusions resulted in dramatic increases in ileal lymphatic volume and protein fluxes and blood flow. Infusion of PGE1 caused a reversion of net mucosal volume absorption to net secretion and an increased loss of plasma proteins into the lumen. Ultrastructural analysis of tissue samples taken during the PGE1 infusion indicate major structural damage to the mucosal membrane. The physiological and ultrastructural data acquired in this study suggest that 1) the increased transmucosal protein efflux during intra-arterial PGE1 infusions results from an alteration in mucosal transcapillary fluid exchange and 2) a significant portion of PGE1-induced ileal secretion is passively mediated.", "PMID": 443432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6142", "title": "Effects of intraluminal D-glucose and probenecid on urate absorption in the rat proximal tubule.", "content": "The in vivo microperfusion technique was employed to examine urate absorption in the proximal convoluted tubule of the rat kidney using [2-14C]urate as the marker for fractional urate absorption. With NaCl as the perfusion solution, water absorption averaged 2.53 +/- 0.16 nl.min-1.mm tubule-1, and the fractional absorption of [2-14C]urate averages 11.6 +/- 1.0%/mm tubule. The addition of D-glucose (50 mg/100 ml) enhanced water absorption to 3.62 +/- 0.19 nl.min-1.mm tubule-1, but inhibited fractional urate absorption to 6.6 +/- 1.2%/mm tubule. Phloridzin (4.4 mg/100 ml), 2-deoxy-D-glucose (45.6 mg/100 ml), and 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (53.9 mg/100 ml) also inhibited the absorption of [2-14C]urate to the same degree as did D-glucose despite differing effects on water absorption. The addition of probenecid (2.8 mg/100 ml) to the NaCl perfusion solution had no effect on water absorption but inhibited [2-14C]urate absorption to 6.4 +/- 0.6%/mm tubule. The addition of both probenecid and phloridzin further reduced [2-14C-A1urate absorption to 3.8 +/- 0.7%/mm tubule. Probenecid alone had no effect on glucose transport. These studies suggest that the presence of either certain hexose sugars, phloridzin, or probenecid in the lumen of the proximal convoluted tubule inhibits the tubular absorption of urate.", "contents": "Effects of intraluminal D-glucose and probenecid on urate absorption in the rat proximal tubule. The in vivo microperfusion technique was employed to examine urate absorption in the proximal convoluted tubule of the rat kidney using [2-14C]urate as the marker for fractional urate absorption. With NaCl as the perfusion solution, water absorption averaged 2.53 +/- 0.16 nl.min-1.mm tubule-1, and the fractional absorption of [2-14C]urate averages 11.6 +/- 1.0%/mm tubule. The addition of D-glucose (50 mg/100 ml) enhanced water absorption to 3.62 +/- 0.19 nl.min-1.mm tubule-1, but inhibited fractional urate absorption to 6.6 +/- 1.2%/mm tubule. Phloridzin (4.4 mg/100 ml), 2-deoxy-D-glucose (45.6 mg/100 ml), and 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (53.9 mg/100 ml) also inhibited the absorption of [2-14C]urate to the same degree as did D-glucose despite differing effects on water absorption. The addition of probenecid (2.8 mg/100 ml) to the NaCl perfusion solution had no effect on water absorption but inhibited [2-14C]urate absorption to 6.4 +/- 0.6%/mm tubule. The addition of both probenecid and phloridzin further reduced [2-14C-A1urate absorption to 3.8 +/- 0.7%/mm tubule. Probenecid alone had no effect on glucose transport. These studies suggest that the presence of either certain hexose sugars, phloridzin, or probenecid in the lumen of the proximal convoluted tubule inhibits the tubular absorption of urate.", "PMID": 443434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6143", "title": "Impaired renal bicarbonate reabsorption in the hypothyroid rat.", "content": "We previously demonstrated a decrease of sodium reabsorption in the proximal superficial nephron of the hypothyroid rat. The present clearance studies were designed to examine the renal handling of bicarbonate in hypothyroid rats. Hypothyroidism was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of Na131I and the animals were studied 10 or more wk thereafter under anesthesia and compared to their age-matched litter-mates. As is characteristic of hypothyroid animals, insulin clearance was lower and fractional urine flow and sodium excretion rates were higher than in the control rats. At the peak of the bicarbonate diuresis and at similar blood pH, PCO2, and bicarbonate levels, fractional renal bicarbonate excretion was significantly higher in the hypothyroid animals: 22 +/- 2 vs. 15 +/- 1%, P less than 0.02. This perturbation of bicarbonate reabsorption of the hypothyroid rats was independent of the influence of extracellular fluid volume expansion and appears closely related to the impaired sodium reabsorptive capacity characteristic of experimental hypothyroidism.", "contents": "Impaired renal bicarbonate reabsorption in the hypothyroid rat. We previously demonstrated a decrease of sodium reabsorption in the proximal superficial nephron of the hypothyroid rat. The present clearance studies were designed to examine the renal handling of bicarbonate in hypothyroid rats. Hypothyroidism was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of Na131I and the animals were studied 10 or more wk thereafter under anesthesia and compared to their age-matched litter-mates. As is characteristic of hypothyroid animals, insulin clearance was lower and fractional urine flow and sodium excretion rates were higher than in the control rats. At the peak of the bicarbonate diuresis and at similar blood pH, PCO2, and bicarbonate levels, fractional renal bicarbonate excretion was significantly higher in the hypothyroid animals: 22 +/- 2 vs. 15 +/- 1%, P less than 0.02. This perturbation of bicarbonate reabsorption of the hypothyroid rats was independent of the influence of extracellular fluid volume expansion and appears closely related to the impaired sodium reabsorptive capacity characteristic of experimental hypothyroidism.", "PMID": 443435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6144", "title": "Renin secretion during dynamic changes in renal perfusion pressure.", "content": "Uninephrectomized ewes were prepared with a renal artery flow probe and catheters were implanted into the renal artery, vein, and ureter. The renal perfusion pressure (RPP) of conscious animals was decreased externally by 13 +/- 3, 21 +/- 3, 31 +/- 3 mmHg over 5 min and returned to control levels over 5 min. Reduction of RPP by 13 and 21 mmHg resulted in prompt increases in renin secretion (RS) which were maximal coincident with the nadir of the downward ramp (delta RS 195 +/- 43 P less than 0.05, and 1,077 +/- 208 ng AI/min, P less than 0.01, respectively). Directly measured renal blood flow (RBF) was not decreased and no measurable change occured in GFR. When RPP was reduced by 31 mmHg, RBF and GFR were decreased and renin secretion rose further (delta RS 1,480 +/- 384 AI/min, P less than 0.05). On the upward pressure ramp, RS fell promptly and was nearly at control levels upon restoration of RPP. It was concluded that renin secretion responds rapidly to alterations in RPP in the autoregulatory range and these changes in renin secretion are unlikely to be mediated by a tubular receptor.", "contents": "Renin secretion during dynamic changes in renal perfusion pressure. Uninephrectomized ewes were prepared with a renal artery flow probe and catheters were implanted into the renal artery, vein, and ureter. The renal perfusion pressure (RPP) of conscious animals was decreased externally by 13 +/- 3, 21 +/- 3, 31 +/- 3 mmHg over 5 min and returned to control levels over 5 min. Reduction of RPP by 13 and 21 mmHg resulted in prompt increases in renin secretion (RS) which were maximal coincident with the nadir of the downward ramp (delta RS 195 +/- 43 P less than 0.05, and 1,077 +/- 208 ng AI/min, P less than 0.01, respectively). Directly measured renal blood flow (RBF) was not decreased and no measurable change occured in GFR. When RPP was reduced by 31 mmHg, RBF and GFR were decreased and renin secretion rose further (delta RS 1,480 +/- 384 AI/min, P less than 0.05). On the upward pressure ramp, RS fell promptly and was nearly at control levels upon restoration of RPP. It was concluded that renin secretion responds rapidly to alterations in RPP in the autoregulatory range and these changes in renin secretion are unlikely to be mediated by a tubular receptor.", "PMID": 443436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6145", "title": "Renal prostaglandin E2 secretion and excretion in conscious dogs.", "content": "Renal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) secretion and excretion rates were determined in nine conscious dogs. Renal venous (RV) and urine PGE2 concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. In 21 controls tests RV PGE2 ranged from 37 to 215 pg/ml, with a mean concentration of 97 +/- 11 pg/ml. Basal left kidney PGE2 secretion was 317 +/- 42 pg.g-1.mm-1. Urine PGE2 concentration averaged 8,320 +/- 1,510 pg/ml with a PGE2 excretion rate of 3,260 +/- 480 pg/min from both kidneys. Indomethacin (2 mg/kg) reduced RV and urine PGE2 concentrations by 60 and 77%, respectively. Meclofenamate (2 mg/kg) decreased RV and urine PGE2 concentrations by 36 and 48%, respectively. PG inhibition had no significant influence on blood pressure or renal blood flow (RBF). PG inhibition reduced urine flow rate and increased urine osmolality. Indomethacin had no effect on urine sodium concentration or sodium excretion; meclofenamate increased urine sodium concentration and slightly diminished sodium excretion. These data demonstrate that PGE2 is released from the kidney in a conscious animal and that both indomethacin and meclofenamate significantly reduce the renal secretion and excretion of PGE2. In a normal, conscious animal prostaglandins do not control blood pressure or RBF but are involved in the excretion of water.", "contents": "Renal prostaglandin E2 secretion and excretion in conscious dogs. Renal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) secretion and excretion rates were determined in nine conscious dogs. Renal venous (RV) and urine PGE2 concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. In 21 controls tests RV PGE2 ranged from 37 to 215 pg/ml, with a mean concentration of 97 +/- 11 pg/ml. Basal left kidney PGE2 secretion was 317 +/- 42 pg.g-1.mm-1. Urine PGE2 concentration averaged 8,320 +/- 1,510 pg/ml with a PGE2 excretion rate of 3,260 +/- 480 pg/min from both kidneys. Indomethacin (2 mg/kg) reduced RV and urine PGE2 concentrations by 60 and 77%, respectively. Meclofenamate (2 mg/kg) decreased RV and urine PGE2 concentrations by 36 and 48%, respectively. PG inhibition had no significant influence on blood pressure or renal blood flow (RBF). PG inhibition reduced urine flow rate and increased urine osmolality. Indomethacin had no effect on urine sodium concentration or sodium excretion; meclofenamate increased urine sodium concentration and slightly diminished sodium excretion. These data demonstrate that PGE2 is released from the kidney in a conscious animal and that both indomethacin and meclofenamate significantly reduce the renal secretion and excretion of PGE2. In a normal, conscious animal prostaglandins do not control blood pressure or RBF but are involved in the excretion of water.", "PMID": 443437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6146", "title": "Intrarenal renin and autoregulation of renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate.", "content": "Autoregulatory responses of renal plasma flow (RPF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to reductions in renal artery pressure (RAP) were studied in both kidneys of two-kidney, one-clamp dogs and in dogs treated with deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA; 25 mg/kg) plus high sodium diets with and without renal arterial clamping. In non-DOCA-treated animals, unilateral renal artery constriction resulted in a significant difference (P = 0.004) in renal renin activity (RRA) between the clamped (171 +/- 37 ng AI.mg-1.h-1) and the contralateral (57 +/- 23 mg AI.mg-1.h-1) kidneys with no change in their relative autoregulatory ability. In dogs treated with DOCA/high sodium there were no differences in RRA between the clamped and contralateral kidneys. The dogs treated with DOCA/high sodium were able to autoregulate both RPF and GFR even though their RRA was only 5.4 ng AI.mg-1.h-1. DOCA/high sodium treatment, however, reduced basal RPF (22%) and GFR (23%) below those in non-DOCA-treated animals. Analysis of the autoregulatory ability of individual kidneys showed no relationship to either RRA or renin secretory rates. These results support the conclusion that the renin-angiotensin system is not necessary component in the autoregulation of RPF or GFR.", "contents": "Intrarenal renin and autoregulation of renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate. Autoregulatory responses of renal plasma flow (RPF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to reductions in renal artery pressure (RAP) were studied in both kidneys of two-kidney, one-clamp dogs and in dogs treated with deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA; 25 mg/kg) plus high sodium diets with and without renal arterial clamping. In non-DOCA-treated animals, unilateral renal artery constriction resulted in a significant difference (P = 0.004) in renal renin activity (RRA) between the clamped (171 +/- 37 ng AI.mg-1.h-1) and the contralateral (57 +/- 23 mg AI.mg-1.h-1) kidneys with no change in their relative autoregulatory ability. In dogs treated with DOCA/high sodium there were no differences in RRA between the clamped and contralateral kidneys. The dogs treated with DOCA/high sodium were able to autoregulate both RPF and GFR even though their RRA was only 5.4 ng AI.mg-1.h-1. DOCA/high sodium treatment, however, reduced basal RPF (22%) and GFR (23%) below those in non-DOCA-treated animals. Analysis of the autoregulatory ability of individual kidneys showed no relationship to either RRA or renin secretory rates. These results support the conclusion that the renin-angiotensin system is not necessary component in the autoregulation of RPF or GFR.", "PMID": 443438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6147", "title": "Effect of volume expansion on renal glucose transport in normal and uremic dogs.", "content": "Proximal and distal tubule micropuncture studies were performed in normal and uremic remnant-kidney dogs to examine the tubule mechanism of glucose reabsorption before and after 10% extracellular volume expansion. In normal dogs volume expansion markedly inhibited glucose reabsorption in the proximal convoluted tubule, but the ensuing increase in further distal glucose delivery was nearly completely reabsorbed in the intermediate segment (between late proximal tubule and distal tubule). In the uremic, remnant-kidney dogs, glomerulotubular balance for glucose was well maintained in the proximal convoluted tubule despite an adaptive increase in nephron filtration rate. Volume expansion markedly increased glucose delivery out of the proximal convoluted tubule and an incomplete glucose reabsorption in the intermediate segment led to glycosuria. When glucose delivery to the intermediate segment was increased to a comparable degree by subthreshold glucose loading in hydropenic normal dogs, glucose reabsorption in this segment was virtually complete, suggesting that in the volume-expanded uremic dogs glucose reabsorptive capacity in the intermediate segment was reduced. Thus, the intermediate segment appears to play a significant role in the fine regulation of urinary glucose excretion.", "contents": "Effect of volume expansion on renal glucose transport in normal and uremic dogs. Proximal and distal tubule micropuncture studies were performed in normal and uremic remnant-kidney dogs to examine the tubule mechanism of glucose reabsorption before and after 10% extracellular volume expansion. In normal dogs volume expansion markedly inhibited glucose reabsorption in the proximal convoluted tubule, but the ensuing increase in further distal glucose delivery was nearly completely reabsorbed in the intermediate segment (between late proximal tubule and distal tubule). In the uremic, remnant-kidney dogs, glomerulotubular balance for glucose was well maintained in the proximal convoluted tubule despite an adaptive increase in nephron filtration rate. Volume expansion markedly increased glucose delivery out of the proximal convoluted tubule and an incomplete glucose reabsorption in the intermediate segment led to glycosuria. When glucose delivery to the intermediate segment was increased to a comparable degree by subthreshold glucose loading in hydropenic normal dogs, glucose reabsorption in this segment was virtually complete, suggesting that in the volume-expanded uremic dogs glucose reabsorptive capacity in the intermediate segment was reduced. Thus, the intermediate segment appears to play a significant role in the fine regulation of urinary glucose excretion.", "PMID": 443439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6148", "title": "Graphical estimation of ventricular wall force and stress from pressure-volume diagram.", "content": "A graphical method is proposed for assessment of ventricular wall circumferential total force and mean stress from the ventricular pressure-volume diagram. A family of force or stress isopleths are first drawn in the pressure-volume plane using a geometric model of the left ventricle and an appropriate version of the Laplace equation. A pressure-volume loop of the ventricle to be analyzed is then drawn in this pressure-volume plane. Total circumferential force in the ventricular wall or its mean circumferential stress can now be read directly from the intersections of the pressure-volume loop with the force or stress isopleths.", "contents": "Graphical estimation of ventricular wall force and stress from pressure-volume diagram. A graphical method is proposed for assessment of ventricular wall circumferential total force and mean stress from the ventricular pressure-volume diagram. A family of force or stress isopleths are first drawn in the pressure-volume plane using a geometric model of the left ventricle and an appropriate version of the Laplace equation. A pressure-volume loop of the ventricle to be analyzed is then drawn in this pressure-volume plane. Total circumferential force in the ventricular wall or its mean circumferential stress can now be read directly from the intersections of the pressure-volume loop with the force or stress isopleths.", "PMID": 443440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6149", "title": "Arterial wall properties and dietary atherosclerosis in the racing greyhound.", "content": "The effects of experimental (dietary) atherosclerosis on arteries from racing greyhounds were studied. Measurements of pressure and external diameter were made on islated carotid and iliac arteries under active (norepinephrine, 5 microgram/ml) and passive (zero Ca2+ and 2 mM EGTA) smooth muscle conditions. Iliac arteries from diet-fed animals demonstrated substantial intimal lesions, but the carotid arteries were usually grossly involved. Arteries from atherosclerotic animals were stiffer during passive conditions, with the iliac arteries having the greater changes. In iliac arteries from treated animals, collagen and elastin contents were decreased, and the collagen-to-elastin ratio was increased; in carotid arteries from treated animals, elastin content was increased and the collagen-to-elastin ratio was decreased. The maximum range of control of arterial wall mechanics by smooth muscle was diminished in treated iliacs but unchanged in carotids. Both force development and constriction responses associated with smooth muscle activation were diminished in treated iliacs but unchanged in treated carotids. Mechanical properties of series elastic elements in treated iliacs were stiffer, but treated carotids were unchanged.", "contents": "Arterial wall properties and dietary atherosclerosis in the racing greyhound. The effects of experimental (dietary) atherosclerosis on arteries from racing greyhounds were studied. Measurements of pressure and external diameter were made on islated carotid and iliac arteries under active (norepinephrine, 5 microgram/ml) and passive (zero Ca2+ and 2 mM EGTA) smooth muscle conditions. Iliac arteries from diet-fed animals demonstrated substantial intimal lesions, but the carotid arteries were usually grossly involved. Arteries from atherosclerotic animals were stiffer during passive conditions, with the iliac arteries having the greater changes. In iliac arteries from treated animals, collagen and elastin contents were decreased, and the collagen-to-elastin ratio was increased; in carotid arteries from treated animals, elastin content was increased and the collagen-to-elastin ratio was decreased. The maximum range of control of arterial wall mechanics by smooth muscle was diminished in treated iliacs but unchanged in carotids. Both force development and constriction responses associated with smooth muscle activation were diminished in treated iliacs but unchanged in treated carotids. Mechanical properties of series elastic elements in treated iliacs were stiffer, but treated carotids were unchanged.", "PMID": 443441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6150", "title": "Increased free fatty acid turnover in CSF during hypotension in dogs.", "content": "Cerebrospinal fluid turnover rates of FFA were investigated using ventriculocisternal perfusion techniques. Seven conscious dogs were perfused over a 6-h period from the lateral ventricle to the cisterna magna with mock cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) containing [14C]palmitate and 100 mumol/l of FFA. One hundred and twenty minutes of perfusion were allowed to establish equilibrium of the FFA concentration in the ventricular space. Moderate hemorrhage hypotension was then induced (MABP greater than 60 mmHg) for 3 h, followed by rapid retransfusion and a final hour of perfusion. Cerebral blood flow did not change significantly (45 +/- 6 before, 53 +/- 6 after hemorrhage, and 47 +/- 5 ml.min-1. 100 g-1 after retransfusion). Cerebral arteriovenous difference of O2, glucose, and pH increased significantly during hemorrhage. Hypotension was accompanied by an increased turnover of FFA from 60 to 120 nmol/min (P less than 0.01) in the CSF. FFA turnover was directly correlated with the fatty acid concentration of the CSF (r = 0.77). It is speculated that the increased fatty acid turnover during hypotension may indicate increased phospholipid turnover and/or increased oxidation by tissues lining the ventricular space.", "contents": "Increased free fatty acid turnover in CSF during hypotension in dogs. Cerebrospinal fluid turnover rates of FFA were investigated using ventriculocisternal perfusion techniques. Seven conscious dogs were perfused over a 6-h period from the lateral ventricle to the cisterna magna with mock cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) containing [14C]palmitate and 100 mumol/l of FFA. One hundred and twenty minutes of perfusion were allowed to establish equilibrium of the FFA concentration in the ventricular space. Moderate hemorrhage hypotension was then induced (MABP greater than 60 mmHg) for 3 h, followed by rapid retransfusion and a final hour of perfusion. Cerebral blood flow did not change significantly (45 +/- 6 before, 53 +/- 6 after hemorrhage, and 47 +/- 5 ml.min-1. 100 g-1 after retransfusion). Cerebral arteriovenous difference of O2, glucose, and pH increased significantly during hemorrhage. Hypotension was accompanied by an increased turnover of FFA from 60 to 120 nmol/min (P less than 0.01) in the CSF. FFA turnover was directly correlated with the fatty acid concentration of the CSF (r = 0.77). It is speculated that the increased fatty acid turnover during hypotension may indicate increased phospholipid turnover and/or increased oxidation by tissues lining the ventricular space.", "PMID": 443442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6151", "title": "Cardiac performance of isolated perfused hearts from alloxan diabetic rats.", "content": "Acute alloxan diabetes (3 days) in the rat resulted in a decreased ability of the isolated perfused working heart to respond to increased atrial filling pressure with normal systolic (aortic) pressure development, using a physiologic concentration of glucose (5 mM) as substrate. The diabetic heart also exhibited impaired cardiac output, which could be attributed entirely to decreased aortic output without any apparent effect on coronary flow. This decrease in ventricular performance was accompanied by a 40% reduction in glucose uptake and a 20% reduction in tissue ATP concentrations even though perfusate glucose levels remained at or near physiologic levels. Perfusion of hearts with 5 mM glucose plus 10(-8) M insulin, with 10 or 30 mM glucose, or 1 mM octanoate reversed the diabetes-related decrease in systolic pressure development, cardiac output, and tissue ATP content. These data demonstrate that the defect in cardiac performance with increased work loads associated with acute insulin deficiency is due to the relative inability of the heart to utilize physiologic concentrations of glucose as substrate for energy production.", "contents": "Cardiac performance of isolated perfused hearts from alloxan diabetic rats. Acute alloxan diabetes (3 days) in the rat resulted in a decreased ability of the isolated perfused working heart to respond to increased atrial filling pressure with normal systolic (aortic) pressure development, using a physiologic concentration of glucose (5 mM) as substrate. The diabetic heart also exhibited impaired cardiac output, which could be attributed entirely to decreased aortic output without any apparent effect on coronary flow. This decrease in ventricular performance was accompanied by a 40% reduction in glucose uptake and a 20% reduction in tissue ATP concentrations even though perfusate glucose levels remained at or near physiologic levels. Perfusion of hearts with 5 mM glucose plus 10(-8) M insulin, with 10 or 30 mM glucose, or 1 mM octanoate reversed the diabetes-related decrease in systolic pressure development, cardiac output, and tissue ATP content. These data demonstrate that the defect in cardiac performance with increased work loads associated with acute insulin deficiency is due to the relative inability of the heart to utilize physiologic concentrations of glucose as substrate for energy production.", "PMID": 443443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6152", "title": "Rat pulmonary circulation after chronic hypoxia: hemodynamic and structural features.", "content": "In 55 Sprague-Dawley rats (mean wt, 277 +/- 6.2 g) exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (air at 380 mmHg), and 23 weight-matched controls kept in room air, pulmonary and systemic artery pressures were measured daily for 2 wk via indwelling catheters. After each day of exposure, 1 or 2 hypoxic rats, to a total of 20, and 5 control rats were killed during the experiment. In these rats, the pulmonary arterial tree was injected post mortem with barium-gelatin and inflated with formaldehyde solution, and three structural features were quantified microscopically: 1) abnormal extension of muscle into peripheral arteries where it is not normally present (EMPA); 2) increased wall thickness of the normally muscular arteries, expressed as a percentage of external diameter (%WT); and 3) reduction in artery number expressed as an increase in the ratio of alveoli to arteries (A/a). Mean pulmonary artery pressure (Ppa) rose significantly after day 3 of hypoxic exposure (P less than 0.05) and had doubled by day 14; the mean systemic artery pressure (Psa) of hypoxic rats and Ppa and Psa of control rats were unchanged. The level of Ppa correlated with the degree of structural changes; for EMPA, r = 0.84; for %WT, r = 0.64; and for A/a, r = 0.73 (P less than 0.001 in all.", "contents": "Rat pulmonary circulation after chronic hypoxia: hemodynamic and structural features. In 55 Sprague-Dawley rats (mean wt, 277 +/- 6.2 g) exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (air at 380 mmHg), and 23 weight-matched controls kept in room air, pulmonary and systemic artery pressures were measured daily for 2 wk via indwelling catheters. After each day of exposure, 1 or 2 hypoxic rats, to a total of 20, and 5 control rats were killed during the experiment. In these rats, the pulmonary arterial tree was injected post mortem with barium-gelatin and inflated with formaldehyde solution, and three structural features were quantified microscopically: 1) abnormal extension of muscle into peripheral arteries where it is not normally present (EMPA); 2) increased wall thickness of the normally muscular arteries, expressed as a percentage of external diameter (%WT); and 3) reduction in artery number expressed as an increase in the ratio of alveoli to arteries (A/a). Mean pulmonary artery pressure (Ppa) rose significantly after day 3 of hypoxic exposure (P less than 0.05) and had doubled by day 14; the mean systemic artery pressure (Psa) of hypoxic rats and Ppa and Psa of control rats were unchanged. The level of Ppa correlated with the degree of structural changes; for EMPA, r = 0.84; for %WT, r = 0.64; and for A/a, r = 0.73 (P less than 0.001 in all.", "PMID": 443445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6153", "title": "Pulmonary and systemic vascular responses of perinatal goats to prostaglandins E1 and E2.", "content": "Effects of prostaglandins of the E series and their metabolites on pulmonary and systemic circulations of newborn and exteriorized fetal goats (anesthetized with chloralose) were evaluated in situ using an isolated perfused left lung lobe preparation. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and, to a lesser extent, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) infusions resulted in decreases of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) of fetal and neonatal goats. Infusions of PGE1 or PGE2 (less than 2 microgram.kg-1.min-1 for 1 min) directly into left pulmonary arterial blood did not affect systemic arterial pressure (SAP). Infusions of PGEs (greater than 2 microgram.kg-1.min-1 for 1 min) resulted in decreases in SAP and heart rate. The dose-response characteristics of the pulmonary circulation in response to PGE1 and PGE2 were not different in fetal and newborn goats. Fetal asphyxia did not alter the dose-response characteristics of pulmonary circulation in response to PGE1. Metabolites (15-keto) of PGE1 and PGE2 had no effect upon PVR or SAP of perinatal goats. These results demonstrate in perinatal mammals 1) vasodilator action of PGE1 and PGE2 on the pulmonary and systemic circulations, and 2) catabolism by the lungs of these prostaglandins.", "contents": "Pulmonary and systemic vascular responses of perinatal goats to prostaglandins E1 and E2. Effects of prostaglandins of the E series and their metabolites on pulmonary and systemic circulations of newborn and exteriorized fetal goats (anesthetized with chloralose) were evaluated in situ using an isolated perfused left lung lobe preparation. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and, to a lesser extent, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) infusions resulted in decreases of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) of fetal and neonatal goats. Infusions of PGE1 or PGE2 (less than 2 microgram.kg-1.min-1 for 1 min) directly into left pulmonary arterial blood did not affect systemic arterial pressure (SAP). Infusions of PGEs (greater than 2 microgram.kg-1.min-1 for 1 min) resulted in decreases in SAP and heart rate. The dose-response characteristics of the pulmonary circulation in response to PGE1 and PGE2 were not different in fetal and newborn goats. Fetal asphyxia did not alter the dose-response characteristics of pulmonary circulation in response to PGE1. Metabolites (15-keto) of PGE1 and PGE2 had no effect upon PVR or SAP of perinatal goats. These results demonstrate in perinatal mammals 1) vasodilator action of PGE1 and PGE2 on the pulmonary and systemic circulations, and 2) catabolism by the lungs of these prostaglandins.", "PMID": 443446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6154", "title": "Transmural distribution of myocardial adenosine content during coronary constriction.", "content": "The transmural distribution of tissue adenosine content was determined in samples of the left ventricle of anesthetized open-chest dogs. Transmural tissue samples were obtained and quickly freeze-clamped during either normal coronary perfusion or partial constriction of the inflow tubing to the left common coronary artery. Inner, middle, and outer segments of the samples were assayed for adenosine, inosine, ATP, creatine phosphate, and lactate. In control experiments, there were no significant differences among the tissue contents of the substances in the three segments. However, during a 50.2 +/- 4.7% reduction of coronary inflow, adenosine content of inner, middle, and outer segments was 0.41 +/- 0.007, 0.030 +/- 0.006, and 0.016 +/- 0.003 nmol/mg protein, respectively. Outer segment content was significantly less than either middle or inner content. Lactate distribution was similar to that of adenosine, whereas ATP and creatine phosphate were lowest in the inner segment. Increases of the inner/outer adenosine ratio occurred when the coronary-ventricular pressure index was lower than 1.2. Thus, selective underperfusion of the subendocardium during reduced coronary inflow can result in greater accumulation of adenosine in that region.", "contents": "Transmural distribution of myocardial adenosine content during coronary constriction. The transmural distribution of tissue adenosine content was determined in samples of the left ventricle of anesthetized open-chest dogs. Transmural tissue samples were obtained and quickly freeze-clamped during either normal coronary perfusion or partial constriction of the inflow tubing to the left common coronary artery. Inner, middle, and outer segments of the samples were assayed for adenosine, inosine, ATP, creatine phosphate, and lactate. In control experiments, there were no significant differences among the tissue contents of the substances in the three segments. However, during a 50.2 +/- 4.7% reduction of coronary inflow, adenosine content of inner, middle, and outer segments was 0.41 +/- 0.007, 0.030 +/- 0.006, and 0.016 +/- 0.003 nmol/mg protein, respectively. Outer segment content was significantly less than either middle or inner content. Lactate distribution was similar to that of adenosine, whereas ATP and creatine phosphate were lowest in the inner segment. Increases of the inner/outer adenosine ratio occurred when the coronary-ventricular pressure index was lower than 1.2. Thus, selective underperfusion of the subendocardium during reduced coronary inflow can result in greater accumulation of adenosine in that region.", "PMID": 443447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6155", "title": "Oxygen exchange in the mesenteric microcirculation of the dog.", "content": "The relationships of O2 tension in mesenteric lymph (PmlO2) and mesenteric venous blood (PmvO2) to intestinal O2 delivery/O2 consumption (DO2/VO2) were examined after graded hemorrhage (10 dogs), stepwise increments in FIO2 (4 dogs), and regional infusion of papaverine (2 mg/min or IV glucagon (25 microgram/kg) (4 dogs). Measurements included superior mesenteric arterial flow (SMA-Q), PaO2, PmlO2, and arterial and mesenteric venous blood O2 content (CaO2, CmvO2). Intestinal DO2 was calculated as the product of SMA-Q and CaO2, and VO2 was calculated from the Fick equation [SMA-Q X (CaO2 - CmvO2)]. Graded hemorrhage lowered SMA-Q, DO2 and DO2/VO2 and increased splanchnic O2 extraction (CaO2 - CmvO2). Elevation of FIO2 increased PaO2, PmvO2, and PmlO2. Both PmlO2 and PmvO2 varied directly with DO2/VO2 and PaO2, but PmlO2 showed greater sensitivity to PaO2. Papaverine and glucagon both increased SMA-Q, DO2, CmvO2, and PmvO2, BUT PmlO2 rose after papaverine, indicating greater capillary perfusion, and fell after glucagon, suggesting diversion of mesenteric blood flow through arteriovenous shunts. Thus, either PmvO2 or PmlO2 is ordinarily an accurate measure of intestinal tissue oxygenation, but the disparate response after glucagon suggests that PmlO2 is a more reliable indicator.", "contents": "Oxygen exchange in the mesenteric microcirculation of the dog. The relationships of O2 tension in mesenteric lymph (PmlO2) and mesenteric venous blood (PmvO2) to intestinal O2 delivery/O2 consumption (DO2/VO2) were examined after graded hemorrhage (10 dogs), stepwise increments in FIO2 (4 dogs), and regional infusion of papaverine (2 mg/min or IV glucagon (25 microgram/kg) (4 dogs). Measurements included superior mesenteric arterial flow (SMA-Q), PaO2, PmlO2, and arterial and mesenteric venous blood O2 content (CaO2, CmvO2). Intestinal DO2 was calculated as the product of SMA-Q and CaO2, and VO2 was calculated from the Fick equation [SMA-Q X (CaO2 - CmvO2)]. Graded hemorrhage lowered SMA-Q, DO2 and DO2/VO2 and increased splanchnic O2 extraction (CaO2 - CmvO2). Elevation of FIO2 increased PaO2, PmvO2, and PmlO2. Both PmlO2 and PmvO2 varied directly with DO2/VO2 and PaO2, but PmlO2 showed greater sensitivity to PaO2. Papaverine and glucagon both increased SMA-Q, DO2, CmvO2, and PmvO2, BUT PmlO2 rose after papaverine, indicating greater capillary perfusion, and fell after glucagon, suggesting diversion of mesenteric blood flow through arteriovenous shunts. Thus, either PmvO2 or PmlO2 is ordinarily an accurate measure of intestinal tissue oxygenation, but the disparate response after glucagon suggests that PmlO2 is a more reliable indicator.", "PMID": 443449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6156", "title": "Plasma epinephrine and control of plasma renin activity: possible extrarenal mechanisms.", "content": "Previous work from our laboratory has shown that physiological increments of circulating epinephrine concentration increase plasma renin activity (PRA) by an extrarenal beta-receptor mechanism. In the present experiments, epinephrine was infused intravenously at 125 ng.kg-1.min-1 for 45 min in trained, conscious dogs. PRA rose 3 to 5-fold, as previously described, and was accompanied by a transient decline of mean arterial pressure, decreased plasma potassium concentration, and increased hematocrit. Prior splenectomy to maintain hematocrit constant did not attenuate the PRA response to epinephrine. The kidneys of 4 dogs were denervated and constrictor cuff was placed around the renal artery. Renal denervation did not alter the PRA response to intravenous epinephrine infusion. A transient decline in renal perfusion pressure produced by cuff constriction only transiently increase PRA. Neither maintenance of a constant plasma potassium concentration nor oral administration of indomethacin altered the PRA response to epinephrine. We conclude that intravenous epinephrine increases PRA by a mechanism independent of the renal nerves, changes in renal perfusion pressure, hematocrit, plasma potassium concentration, and plasma prostaglandins.", "contents": "Plasma epinephrine and control of plasma renin activity: possible extrarenal mechanisms. Previous work from our laboratory has shown that physiological increments of circulating epinephrine concentration increase plasma renin activity (PRA) by an extrarenal beta-receptor mechanism. In the present experiments, epinephrine was infused intravenously at 125 ng.kg-1.min-1 for 45 min in trained, conscious dogs. PRA rose 3 to 5-fold, as previously described, and was accompanied by a transient decline of mean arterial pressure, decreased plasma potassium concentration, and increased hematocrit. Prior splenectomy to maintain hematocrit constant did not attenuate the PRA response to epinephrine. The kidneys of 4 dogs were denervated and constrictor cuff was placed around the renal artery. Renal denervation did not alter the PRA response to intravenous epinephrine infusion. A transient decline in renal perfusion pressure produced by cuff constriction only transiently increase PRA. Neither maintenance of a constant plasma potassium concentration nor oral administration of indomethacin altered the PRA response to epinephrine. We conclude that intravenous epinephrine increases PRA by a mechanism independent of the renal nerves, changes in renal perfusion pressure, hematocrit, plasma potassium concentration, and plasma prostaglandins.", "PMID": 443450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6157", "title": "Autonomic control of right atrial contractile strength in the dog.", "content": "The combined effects of parasympathetic and sympathetic stimulation on right atrial contractile strength were assessed in open-chest, pentobarbital-anesthesized dogs. A factorial experimental design was employed to quantify the percent changes in atrial contractile strength in spontaneously beating and paced hearts as a function of the frequencies of vagal and stellate ganglion stimulation. In 7 of 10 dogs, there was a substantial interaction between the two autonomic divisions; the sympathetically mediated inotropic effect became less pronounced as the background level of vagal stimulation increased. The relationship between stimulation frequencies and atrial contractile strength was not significnatly altered by pacing the hearts.", "contents": "Autonomic control of right atrial contractile strength in the dog. The combined effects of parasympathetic and sympathetic stimulation on right atrial contractile strength were assessed in open-chest, pentobarbital-anesthesized dogs. A factorial experimental design was employed to quantify the percent changes in atrial contractile strength in spontaneously beating and paced hearts as a function of the frequencies of vagal and stellate ganglion stimulation. In 7 of 10 dogs, there was a substantial interaction between the two autonomic divisions; the sympathetically mediated inotropic effect became less pronounced as the background level of vagal stimulation increased. The relationship between stimulation frequencies and atrial contractile strength was not significnatly altered by pacing the hearts.", "PMID": 443451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6158", "title": "Aversive conditioning of elevations in total peripheral resistance in dogs.", "content": "Operant conditioning experiments were performed with 12 chronically instrumented dogs to which aversive stimulation was presented whenever total peripheral resistance (mean pressure/cardiac output) decreased acutely below a criterion level. Initial experiments in which aversive stimulation occurred whenever total peripheral resistance decreased below mean base-line levels resulted in sustained decreases in total peripheral resistance, accompanied by elevations in heart rate, cardiac output, and arterial pressure. Subsequent experiments showed, however, that if aversive stimulation occurred only following large-magnitude decreases in resistance (30% below base-line levels), a progressive cardiovascular response pattern emerged during daily sessions of 5--16 h. This cardiovascular pattern included progressive elevations in resistance (10--50%), accompanied by progressive decreases or no change in heart rate and cardiac output and moderate increases in arterial (up to 20 mmHg) and pulse pressure. These within-session cardiovascular changes were accompanied by sustained inhibition of overt behavioral acitivity and progressive inhibition in respiratory activity. Implications of these observation for behavioral regulation of circulatory function are discussed.", "contents": "Aversive conditioning of elevations in total peripheral resistance in dogs. Operant conditioning experiments were performed with 12 chronically instrumented dogs to which aversive stimulation was presented whenever total peripheral resistance (mean pressure/cardiac output) decreased acutely below a criterion level. Initial experiments in which aversive stimulation occurred whenever total peripheral resistance decreased below mean base-line levels resulted in sustained decreases in total peripheral resistance, accompanied by elevations in heart rate, cardiac output, and arterial pressure. Subsequent experiments showed, however, that if aversive stimulation occurred only following large-magnitude decreases in resistance (30% below base-line levels), a progressive cardiovascular response pattern emerged during daily sessions of 5--16 h. This cardiovascular pattern included progressive elevations in resistance (10--50%), accompanied by progressive decreases or no change in heart rate and cardiac output and moderate increases in arterial (up to 20 mmHg) and pulse pressure. These within-session cardiovascular changes were accompanied by sustained inhibition of overt behavioral acitivity and progressive inhibition in respiratory activity. Implications of these observation for behavioral regulation of circulatory function are discussed.", "PMID": 443453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6159", "title": "Blood pressure fluctuations in human nailfold capillaries.", "content": "Dynamic blood pressure was measured in 33 human finger nailfold capillaries after direct cannulation with glass micropipettes by means of a resistance servo-nulling pressure measuring method. ECG, finger pulsations, and respiratory thorax excursions were monitored simultaneously. All recordings exhibited pulsatile oscillations related to the cardiac rhythm. These oscillations resembled the wave forms of arterial pulsations with steep upstroke and dicrotic notch when the pressure amplitudes were above 10 mmHg. There was no apparent dependence on respiration. In 12 instances, pressure fluctuations with frequencies ranging from 0.2 down to 0.07 Hz were observed in both the arteriolar and venular limb. Blood pressure in human skin capillaries is pulsatile and subject to remarkable fluctuations in the arteriolar as well as in the venular limb, systolic pressure values ranging from 14 to 71 mmHg and from 11 to 52 mmHg, respectively.", "contents": "Blood pressure fluctuations in human nailfold capillaries. Dynamic blood pressure was measured in 33 human finger nailfold capillaries after direct cannulation with glass micropipettes by means of a resistance servo-nulling pressure measuring method. ECG, finger pulsations, and respiratory thorax excursions were monitored simultaneously. All recordings exhibited pulsatile oscillations related to the cardiac rhythm. These oscillations resembled the wave forms of arterial pulsations with steep upstroke and dicrotic notch when the pressure amplitudes were above 10 mmHg. There was no apparent dependence on respiration. In 12 instances, pressure fluctuations with frequencies ranging from 0.2 down to 0.07 Hz were observed in both the arteriolar and venular limb. Blood pressure in human skin capillaries is pulsatile and subject to remarkable fluctuations in the arteriolar as well as in the venular limb, systolic pressure values ranging from 14 to 71 mmHg and from 11 to 52 mmHg, respectively.", "PMID": 443454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6160", "title": "High-resolution determination of the R-R interval.", "content": "A preprocessor is described that determines the time interval between successive R waves of the electrocardiogram with an error of less than 0.2 ms. It accomplishes this by sepearting in hardware the function of determining the approximate location of the R wave from the function of localizing with great accuracy the peak of the wave form. With this device it is possible to detect abnormal heart rate patterns characterized by exceedingly small beat-to-beat variability. The approach may be useful for other bioelectric signals.", "contents": "High-resolution determination of the R-R interval. A preprocessor is described that determines the time interval between successive R waves of the electrocardiogram with an error of less than 0.2 ms. It accomplishes this by sepearting in hardware the function of determining the approximate location of the R wave from the function of localizing with great accuracy the peak of the wave form. With this device it is possible to detect abnormal heart rate patterns characterized by exceedingly small beat-to-beat variability. The approach may be useful for other bioelectric signals.", "PMID": 443455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6161", "title": "Comparison of plethysmographic methods with pulsed D\u00f6ppler blood flowmetry.", "content": "Hand blood flow was measured at rest, with local warming, and with local cooling. Three methods were simultaneously used: water plethysmography (WP), mercury-in-rubber strain gauge plethysmography (SG), and pulsed D\u00f6ppler flowmetry (D). Of these, water plethysmography is the most sensitive and accurate; strain gauge plethysmography is simpler but less accurate; and pulsed D\u00f6ppler flowmetry precisely measures instantaneous arterial blood flow without venous occlusion.", "contents": "Comparison of plethysmographic methods with pulsed D\u00f6ppler blood flowmetry. Hand blood flow was measured at rest, with local warming, and with local cooling. Three methods were simultaneously used: water plethysmography (WP), mercury-in-rubber strain gauge plethysmography (SG), and pulsed D\u00f6ppler flowmetry (D). Of these, water plethysmography is the most sensitive and accurate; strain gauge plethysmography is simpler but less accurate; and pulsed D\u00f6ppler flowmetry precisely measures instantaneous arterial blood flow without venous occlusion.", "PMID": 443456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6162", "title": "Vascular reactivity of the isolated tibia of the dog.", "content": "Experiments were performed to assess the responsiveness of vessels subserving bone tissue to nerve stimulation and to exogenously administered catecholamines and acetylcholine. Tibias of mongrel dogs were isolated and dissected free; the periosteum was left intact. The main nutrient artery was prepared and cannulated. Ring electrodes were placed around the artery. The preparation was perfused at constant flow with aerated (95% O2 - 5% CO2) Krebs-Ringer solution (37 degrees C) by means of a roller pump. The perfusion pressure was continuously recorded. For each preparation, the flow rate was used at which the response to a standard dose of norepinephrine was the largest. Periarterial electrical stimulation caused frequency-dependent increases in perfusion pressure; because these responses were blocked by phentolamine, they must be due to activation of sympathetic nerves. Injections of norepinephrine caused dose-dependent increases in perfusion pressure that were abolished by phentolamine. Acetylcholine caused dose-dependent, atropine-sensitive decrease of the constrictions caused by norepinephrine infusions. These experiments demonstrate that the isolated perfused tibia of the dog is a satisfactory preparation to investigate the direct effects of sympathetic nerve stimulation and naturally occurring vasoactive amines on bone blood vessels.", "contents": "Vascular reactivity of the isolated tibia of the dog. Experiments were performed to assess the responsiveness of vessels subserving bone tissue to nerve stimulation and to exogenously administered catecholamines and acetylcholine. Tibias of mongrel dogs were isolated and dissected free; the periosteum was left intact. The main nutrient artery was prepared and cannulated. Ring electrodes were placed around the artery. The preparation was perfused at constant flow with aerated (95% O2 - 5% CO2) Krebs-Ringer solution (37 degrees C) by means of a roller pump. The perfusion pressure was continuously recorded. For each preparation, the flow rate was used at which the response to a standard dose of norepinephrine was the largest. Periarterial electrical stimulation caused frequency-dependent increases in perfusion pressure; because these responses were blocked by phentolamine, they must be due to activation of sympathetic nerves. Injections of norepinephrine caused dose-dependent increases in perfusion pressure that were abolished by phentolamine. Acetylcholine caused dose-dependent, atropine-sensitive decrease of the constrictions caused by norepinephrine infusions. These experiments demonstrate that the isolated perfused tibia of the dog is a satisfactory preparation to investigate the direct effects of sympathetic nerve stimulation and naturally occurring vasoactive amines on bone blood vessels.", "PMID": 443457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6163", "title": "\"Folk\" criteria for the diagnosis of mental illness in rural Laos: on being insane in sane places.", "content": "\"Folk\" criteria for identifying the mentally ill, as distinguished from folk theories about the causes of mental illness, have been comparatively neglected in cultural psychiatry. The authors describe the criteria by which villagers in Laos labeled 35 subjects as baa (insane). Unprovoked assaultive or destructive behavior, social isolation, self-endangerment due to neglect of personal needs, nonviolent but socially disruptive or inappropriate behavior, and inability to do productive work were found to be important folk criteria. The authors emphasize that folk criteria for mental illness are determined primarily by the persistence of socially dysfunctional behavior rather than by disturbances in thought and affect.", "contents": "\"Folk\" criteria for the diagnosis of mental illness in rural Laos: on being insane in sane places. \"Folk\" criteria for identifying the mentally ill, as distinguished from folk theories about the causes of mental illness, have been comparatively neglected in cultural psychiatry. The authors describe the criteria by which villagers in Laos labeled 35 subjects as baa (insane). Unprovoked assaultive or destructive behavior, social isolation, self-endangerment due to neglect of personal needs, nonviolent but socially disruptive or inappropriate behavior, and inability to do productive work were found to be important folk criteria. The authors emphasize that folk criteria for mental illness are determined primarily by the persistence of socially dysfunctional behavior rather than by disturbances in thought and affect.", "PMID": 443458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6164", "title": "Gonadotropin, estradiol, and testosterone profiles in homosexual men.", "content": "The authors evaluated the gonadotropin-testosterone-estradiol profiles of four homosexual men and four heterosexual men by a multiple-sampling technique. Although there was extensive overlap between the two groups, the homosexual subjects had higher estradiol levels than the heterosexuals (70.3 +/- 19.8 versus 56.8 +/- 10.7 pg/ml) and lower FSH values (5.1 +/- 1.0 versus 13.2 +/- 3.4 mIU/ml). Testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels were comparable in the two groups. These observations suggest that there may be subtle differences in gonadotropin and estradiol secretion in homosexual subjects that can be detected only by repeated sampling.", "contents": "Gonadotropin, estradiol, and testosterone profiles in homosexual men. The authors evaluated the gonadotropin-testosterone-estradiol profiles of four homosexual men and four heterosexual men by a multiple-sampling technique. Although there was extensive overlap between the two groups, the homosexual subjects had higher estradiol levels than the heterosexuals (70.3 +/- 19.8 versus 56.8 +/- 10.7 pg/ml) and lower FSH values (5.1 +/- 1.0 versus 13.2 +/- 3.4 mIU/ml). Testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels were comparable in the two groups. These observations suggest that there may be subtle differences in gonadotropin and estradiol secretion in homosexual subjects that can be detected only by repeated sampling.", "PMID": 443459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6165", "title": "Hysterical psychosis and hypnotizability.", "content": "The very existence of hysterical psychosis as a diagnostic entity has been questioned as part of the general difficulty in defining both hysteria and psychosis. However, several recent investigations have documented a syndrome that usually involves brief and intense periods of psychotic behavior, generally with graphic decompensation, severe environmental stress, and rapid recompensation, in individuals with other hysterical features. The authors assert that such a syndrome does exist as a clinical entity and that the differential diagnosis can be facilitated by using a standardized measure of hypnotic trance capacity. They hypothesize that patients with hysterical psychosis are highly hypnotizable, while those who are schizophrenic and psychotic have low hypnotizability. The authors review the literature and present two case examples.", "contents": "Hysterical psychosis and hypnotizability. The very existence of hysterical psychosis as a diagnostic entity has been questioned as part of the general difficulty in defining both hysteria and psychosis. However, several recent investigations have documented a syndrome that usually involves brief and intense periods of psychotic behavior, generally with graphic decompensation, severe environmental stress, and rapid recompensation, in individuals with other hysterical features. The authors assert that such a syndrome does exist as a clinical entity and that the differential diagnosis can be facilitated by using a standardized measure of hypnotic trance capacity. They hypothesize that patients with hysterical psychosis are highly hypnotizable, while those who are schizophrenic and psychotic have low hypnotizability. The authors review the literature and present two case examples.", "PMID": 443460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6166", "title": "Emergency room medical clearance: an educational problem.", "content": "The term \"medically clear\" has a greater capacity to mislead than to inform correctly. The overuse of this term, especially in emergency room settings, may indicate difficulties in medical education and in the consultation/referral process between psychiatry and other specialties; further, it results in poor patient care. Nonpsychiatric physicians may prematurely refer patients as medically clear because of their unfamiliarity or discomfort with clinical psychiatry. Psychiatrists often ask for medical clearance of patients to hide their discomfort with or antipathy toward clinical medicine. The use of emergency room settings for interspecialty collaboration and training helps minimize the underlying difficulties that lead to the use of this term by fostering psychiatric skills in nonpsychiatrists and a sense of medical identity in psychiatrists.", "contents": "Emergency room medical clearance: an educational problem. The term \"medically clear\" has a greater capacity to mislead than to inform correctly. The overuse of this term, especially in emergency room settings, may indicate difficulties in medical education and in the consultation/referral process between psychiatry and other specialties; further, it results in poor patient care. Nonpsychiatric physicians may prematurely refer patients as medically clear because of their unfamiliarity or discomfort with clinical psychiatry. Psychiatrists often ask for medical clearance of patients to hide their discomfort with or antipathy toward clinical medicine. The use of emergency room settings for interspecialty collaboration and training helps minimize the underlying difficulties that lead to the use of this term by fostering psychiatric skills in nonpsychiatrists and a sense of medical identity in psychiatrists.", "PMID": 443461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6167", "title": "Incidence of a history of incest among 18 female psychiatric patients.", "content": "The author ascertained the frequency of reports of a history of incest among the 18 female psychiatric outpatients he first evaluated or treated in a one-year period. Six of these patients (33%) reported a history of incest. The author suggests that if this figure reflects actual prevalence, previous estimates of a history of incest among female psychiatric patients may have been mistakenly low. He discusses the implications and limitations of the statistics.", "contents": "Incidence of a history of incest among 18 female psychiatric patients. The author ascertained the frequency of reports of a history of incest among the 18 female psychiatric outpatients he first evaluated or treated in a one-year period. Six of these patients (33%) reported a history of incest. The author suggests that if this figure reflects actual prevalence, previous estimates of a history of incest among female psychiatric patients may have been mistakenly low. He discusses the implications and limitations of the statistics.", "PMID": 443462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6168", "title": "Cognitive and affective responses to lithium in patients with organic brain syndrome.", "content": "The authors describe a series of patients with organic brain syndrome who showed a dramatic clinical response to lithium carbonate therapy. None of the patients had been diagnosed as manic-depressive. Most had extensive psychiatric treatment experiences and had been given both affective and cognitive diagnoses. Six of the eight patients also qualified for the diagnosis of alcoholism. They had been treated with a wide variety of psychotherapeutic medications. Lithium was found to be rapidly and dramatically effective in patients with static lesions of the central nervous system who showed a combination of dementia and agitated depression.", "contents": "Cognitive and affective responses to lithium in patients with organic brain syndrome. The authors describe a series of patients with organic brain syndrome who showed a dramatic clinical response to lithium carbonate therapy. None of the patients had been diagnosed as manic-depressive. Most had extensive psychiatric treatment experiences and had been given both affective and cognitive diagnoses. Six of the eight patients also qualified for the diagnosis of alcoholism. They had been treated with a wide variety of psychotherapeutic medications. Lithium was found to be rapidly and dramatically effective in patients with static lesions of the central nervous system who showed a combination of dementia and agitated depression.", "PMID": 443463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6169", "title": "Cardiac sinus node dysfunction during lithium treatment.", "content": "Lithium treatment has been associated with a wide range of cardiac complications. The authors report three additional cases of cardiac sinus node dysfunction due to lithium. Two of the three cases were documented to be lithium dependent by the use of Holter monitoring of cardiac rhythm. On the basis of this finding as well as other reports in the literature the authors recommend careful monitoring of the pulse of patients taking lithium as well as ECG monitoring of patients who are over the age of 50 or who have a history of cardiac disease.", "contents": "Cardiac sinus node dysfunction during lithium treatment. Lithium treatment has been associated with a wide range of cardiac complications. The authors report three additional cases of cardiac sinus node dysfunction due to lithium. Two of the three cases were documented to be lithium dependent by the use of Holter monitoring of cardiac rhythm. On the basis of this finding as well as other reports in the literature the authors recommend careful monitoring of the pulse of patients taking lithium as well as ECG monitoring of patients who are over the age of 50 or who have a history of cardiac disease.", "PMID": 443464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6170", "title": "Variable attenuation of amphetamine effects by lithium.", "content": "In an open study of 8 subjects, approximately half showed some attenuation of CNS stimulant effects of amphetamine after pretreatment with lithium. Two showed specific blockade of euphoria, with persistence of some CNS stimulant effects. In 3 subjects lithium did not appear to affect the response to amphetamine. Lithium caused significant attenuation of the amphetamine-induced increase in systolic blood pressure for the group as a whole.", "contents": "Variable attenuation of amphetamine effects by lithium. In an open study of 8 subjects, approximately half showed some attenuation of CNS stimulant effects of amphetamine after pretreatment with lithium. Two showed specific blockade of euphoria, with persistence of some CNS stimulant effects. In 3 subjects lithium did not appear to affect the response to amphetamine. Lithium caused significant attenuation of the amphetamine-induced increase in systolic blood pressure for the group as a whole.", "PMID": 443465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6171", "title": "Lithium plus reserpine in refractory manic patients.", "content": "The authors report on six refractory manic or schizo-affective manic male outpatients who failed to respond to lithium combined with a neuroleptic. A beneficial response was noted in most patients when reserpine was substituted for their currently prescribed standard neuroleptic; in some cases lithium dosage could then be reduced. No major side effects were encountered. The use of reserpine may offer an alternative mode of therapy for manic patients who cannot tolerate large doses of lithium or do not completely respond to lithium either alone or in combination with a standard neuroleptic.", "contents": "Lithium plus reserpine in refractory manic patients. The authors report on six refractory manic or schizo-affective manic male outpatients who failed to respond to lithium combined with a neuroleptic. A beneficial response was noted in most patients when reserpine was substituted for their currently prescribed standard neuroleptic; in some cases lithium dosage could then be reduced. No major side effects were encountered. The use of reserpine may offer an alternative mode of therapy for manic patients who cannot tolerate large doses of lithium or do not completely respond to lithium either alone or in combination with a standard neuroleptic.", "PMID": 443466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6172", "title": "DSM-III field trials: I. Initial interrater diagnostic reliability.", "content": "The interrater agreement for major diagnostic categories in studies using DSM-I and DSM-II was usually only fair or poor. In phase one of the DSM-III field trials the overall kappa coefficient of agreement for axis I diagnoses of 281 adult patients was .78 for joint interviews and .66 for diagnoses made after separate interviews; for axis II--personality disorders and specific developmental disorders--the coefficients of agreement were .61 and .54. The interrater reliability of DSM--III is, in general, higher than that previously achieved and may be due to changes in the classification itself, the separation of axis I from axis II conditions, the systematic description of the various disorders, and the inclusion of diagnostic criteria.", "contents": "DSM-III field trials: I. Initial interrater diagnostic reliability. The interrater agreement for major diagnostic categories in studies using DSM-I and DSM-II was usually only fair or poor. In phase one of the DSM-III field trials the overall kappa coefficient of agreement for axis I diagnoses of 281 adult patients was .78 for joint interviews and .66 for diagnoses made after separate interviews; for axis II--personality disorders and specific developmental disorders--the coefficients of agreement were .61 and .54. The interrater reliability of DSM--III is, in general, higher than that previously achieved and may be due to changes in the classification itself, the separation of axis I from axis II conditions, the systematic description of the various disorders, and the inclusion of diagnostic criteria.", "PMID": 443467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6173", "title": "DSM-III field trials: II. Initial experience with the multiaxial system.", "content": "The multiaxial system of DSM-III includes nondiagnostic data that are valuable in understanding possible etiological factors and in treatment planning and prognosis. The authors describe the reliability of axis IV--severity of psychosocial stressors--and axis V--highest level of adaptive functioning in the past year--for 281 adult patients interviewed in phase one of the DSM-III field trials. The kappa coefficient of agreement for axis IV was .62 for joint interviews and .58 for separate interviews, which the authors consider at least fair. Reliability for axis V was quite good, .80 for joint interviews and .69 for separate interviews. Eighty-one percent of the participating clinicians judged the multiaxial system to be a useful addition to traditional diagnostic evaluation, although many indicated that they had difficulty quantifying severity of psychosocial stressors.", "contents": "DSM-III field trials: II. Initial experience with the multiaxial system. The multiaxial system of DSM-III includes nondiagnostic data that are valuable in understanding possible etiological factors and in treatment planning and prognosis. The authors describe the reliability of axis IV--severity of psychosocial stressors--and axis V--highest level of adaptive functioning in the past year--for 281 adult patients interviewed in phase one of the DSM-III field trials. The kappa coefficient of agreement for axis IV was .62 for joint interviews and .58 for separate interviews, which the authors consider at least fair. Reliability for axis V was quite good, .80 for joint interviews and .69 for separate interviews. Eighty-one percent of the participating clinicians judged the multiaxial system to be a useful addition to traditional diagnostic evaluation, although many indicated that they had difficulty quantifying severity of psychosocial stressors.", "PMID": 443468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6174", "title": "Massive benzodiazepine requirements during acute alcohol withdrawal.", "content": "Severe alcohol withdrawal developed in an abstinent chronic alcoholic man. Massive doses of benzodiazepines (2,335 mg of diazepam intravenously, 21,225 mg of oxazepam orally) achieved only marginal control of delirium and agitation. Analysis of multiple blood samples drawn during and after the withdrawal episode indicated, as expected, very high concentrations of diazepam and metabolites and of oxazepam. There was no evidence of an abnormal pharmacokinetic profile. Benzodiazepine resistance in withdrawing alcoholics probably reflects a receptor-site phenomenon rather than an abnormal drug disposition.", "contents": "Massive benzodiazepine requirements during acute alcohol withdrawal. Severe alcohol withdrawal developed in an abstinent chronic alcoholic man. Massive doses of benzodiazepines (2,335 mg of diazepam intravenously, 21,225 mg of oxazepam orally) achieved only marginal control of delirium and agitation. Analysis of multiple blood samples drawn during and after the withdrawal episode indicated, as expected, very high concentrations of diazepam and metabolites and of oxazepam. There was no evidence of an abnormal pharmacokinetic profile. Benzodiazepine resistance in withdrawing alcoholics probably reflects a receptor-site phenomenon rather than an abnormal drug disposition.", "PMID": 443469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6175", "title": "Relations between academic departments of psychiatry and pharmaceutical companies.", "content": "The financial pressures placed on academic departments of psychiatry make the offers of assistance from pharmaceutical companies very attractive. The authors provide a sequential three-step decision-making approach to help the academic physician and the psychiatry department address the ethical issues involved in any given interaction with a pharmaceutical company. They also provide examples of the application of these guidelines.", "contents": "Relations between academic departments of psychiatry and pharmaceutical companies. The financial pressures placed on academic departments of psychiatry make the offers of assistance from pharmaceutical companies very attractive. The authors provide a sequential three-step decision-making approach to help the academic physician and the psychiatry department address the ethical issues involved in any given interaction with a pharmaceutical company. They also provide examples of the application of these guidelines.", "PMID": 443470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6176", "title": "A clinical note on hysterical psychosis.", "content": "The authors review the concept of hysterical psychosis and its reported psychodynamics. They suggest a psychodynamic issue that apparently has not been previously reported, namely, emotions engendered by an overt sexual advance or rage and disappointment over a lack of a sexual advance. This finding can be most helpful in distinguishing a case of hysterical psychosis from an acute schizophrenic episode.", "contents": "A clinical note on hysterical psychosis. The authors review the concept of hysterical psychosis and its reported psychodynamics. They suggest a psychodynamic issue that apparently has not been previously reported, namely, emotions engendered by an overt sexual advance or rage and disappointment over a lack of a sexual advance. This finding can be most helpful in distinguishing a case of hysterical psychosis from an acute schizophrenic episode.", "PMID": 443471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6177", "title": "Organic personality disturbance: a case of apparent atypical cyclic affective disorder.", "content": "The authors present the case report of a 19-year-old woman that contains several important points in the diagnosis and management of organic personality disturbance associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. The behavioral changes may antedate the onset of the clinical seizure. The diagnosis of complex partial seizures is a clinical diagnosis in which surface EEGs may repeatedly not demonstrate focal activity. Carbamazepine can have important psychotropic effects, in addition to its well-established anticonvulsant effects, and it may be particularly indicated if a lithium-resistant bipolar affective disorder is a differential diagnostic possibility.", "contents": "Organic personality disturbance: a case of apparent atypical cyclic affective disorder. The authors present the case report of a 19-year-old woman that contains several important points in the diagnosis and management of organic personality disturbance associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. The behavioral changes may antedate the onset of the clinical seizure. The diagnosis of complex partial seizures is a clinical diagnosis in which surface EEGs may repeatedly not demonstrate focal activity. Carbamazepine can have important psychotropic effects, in addition to its well-established anticonvulsant effects, and it may be particularly indicated if a lithium-resistant bipolar affective disorder is a differential diagnostic possibility.", "PMID": 443472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6178", "title": "The effect of infant death on subsequent fertility in Korea and the role of family planning.", "content": "This paper studies the effect of infant death on subsequent fertility in a developing country, examining spacing of children and additional births following the survival or death of the preceding infant. The material is provided by the 1971 National Fertility Survey of Korea, 23,635 retrospective birth records of 6,285 women. The findings suggest that prior to the introduction of a national family planning program, the influence of infant death was limited to the biological effect resulting from a shortened lactational period. Since fertility regulation methods have been made available throughout the country, motivational effects to replace the lost child appeared to emerge. The proportion of excess births attributable to infant deaths has increased in recent years. However, because of the lowered infant mortality, the overall impact of infant death on the national fertility level appears to be small.", "contents": "The effect of infant death on subsequent fertility in Korea and the role of family planning. This paper studies the effect of infant death on subsequent fertility in a developing country, examining spacing of children and additional births following the survival or death of the preceding infant. The material is provided by the 1971 National Fertility Survey of Korea, 23,635 retrospective birth records of 6,285 women. The findings suggest that prior to the introduction of a national family planning program, the influence of infant death was limited to the biological effect resulting from a shortened lactational period. Since fertility regulation methods have been made available throughout the country, motivational effects to replace the lost child appeared to emerge. The proportion of excess births attributable to infant deaths has increased in recent years. However, because of the lowered infant mortality, the overall impact of infant death on the national fertility level appears to be small.", "PMID": 443496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6179", "title": "The growing demand for midtrimester amniocentesis: a systems approach to forecasting the need for facilities.", "content": "A predicted shift in composition of the child-bearing population of the United States to higher maternal ages by year 2000 indicates that the number of chromosomally abnormal offspring of women age 35 and over will increase by 64% while the total number of women increases only 21%. We formulated a conceptual model of a health care system that predicts demand for amniocentesis from prospective patients in any particular region, the number of defective offspring detected, and the future cost of custodial care using any given level of detection effort. It was found that as capacity of clinic facilities and use by women age 35 and over in the area increased, the expenditure for amniocentesis combined with the cost of custodial care for undetected offspring decreased, assuming termination of affected pregnancies. Use of this model will enable health care managers to anticipate need for facilities, and also guide the formulation of social policy in the provision of new health services by enabling them to take into account the predictable effects of these services upon other public services.", "contents": "The growing demand for midtrimester amniocentesis: a systems approach to forecasting the need for facilities. A predicted shift in composition of the child-bearing population of the United States to higher maternal ages by year 2000 indicates that the number of chromosomally abnormal offspring of women age 35 and over will increase by 64% while the total number of women increases only 21%. We formulated a conceptual model of a health care system that predicts demand for amniocentesis from prospective patients in any particular region, the number of defective offspring detected, and the future cost of custodial care using any given level of detection effort. It was found that as capacity of clinic facilities and use by women age 35 and over in the area increased, the expenditure for amniocentesis combined with the cost of custodial care for undetected offspring decreased, assuming termination of affected pregnancies. Use of this model will enable health care managers to anticipate need for facilities, and also guide the formulation of social policy in the provision of new health services by enabling them to take into account the predictable effects of these services upon other public services.", "PMID": 443497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6180", "title": "Prevalence of hepatitis B in 27 Michigan hemodialysis centers.", "content": "A large epidemiological survey of inhospital chronic hemodialysis patients was conducted in 27 (93%) of the 29 dialysis centers in Michigan. Serum was collected from 699 patients on chronic maintenance hemodialysis for periods from one month to eight years. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was determined in all patients by radioimmunoassay and positive samples were confirmed by specific neutralization. Antibody against HBsAg (anti-HBs) was determined by radioimmunoassay in 110 HBsAg negative patients from six dialysis units with a high prevalence of hepatitis B. HBsAg was detected in 80 (11.4%) patients distributed among 21 (78%) of 27 dialysis units and anti-HBs in 34 (31%) patients from the selected dialysis units. The prevalence of HBsAg was related to duration of dialysis, number of blood transfusions, and to a history of bilateral nephrectomy, but not to age, sex, race, nor the underlying renal disease. Twenty-one (26%) of the 80 HBsAg positive patients had not been previously identified by the clinical laboratories of their institutions. Since preventive measures were not taken in the care of these inapparent carriers of HBsAg, they represent an unrecognized risk.", "contents": "Prevalence of hepatitis B in 27 Michigan hemodialysis centers. A large epidemiological survey of inhospital chronic hemodialysis patients was conducted in 27 (93%) of the 29 dialysis centers in Michigan. Serum was collected from 699 patients on chronic maintenance hemodialysis for periods from one month to eight years. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was determined in all patients by radioimmunoassay and positive samples were confirmed by specific neutralization. Antibody against HBsAg (anti-HBs) was determined by radioimmunoassay in 110 HBsAg negative patients from six dialysis units with a high prevalence of hepatitis B. HBsAg was detected in 80 (11.4%) patients distributed among 21 (78%) of 27 dialysis units and anti-HBs in 34 (31%) patients from the selected dialysis units. The prevalence of HBsAg was related to duration of dialysis, number of blood transfusions, and to a history of bilateral nephrectomy, but not to age, sex, race, nor the underlying renal disease. Twenty-one (26%) of the 80 HBsAg positive patients had not been previously identified by the clinical laboratories of their institutions. Since preventive measures were not taken in the care of these inapparent carriers of HBsAg, they represent an unrecognized risk.", "PMID": 443498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6181", "title": "Exercise prescription: a clinical trial.", "content": "To assess the effectiveness of physician prescribed exercise, health education, and patient self-monitoring, 124 firefighters were medically screened and randomly allocated to a control and two treatment groups. Physiologic and reporting methods were employed to assess adherence to regular exercise at three months and six months after the initial exercise prescription. Addition of a health education program significantly improved compliance over that achieved by a physician consultation. Self-monitoring did not produce a further increase in compliance. Improvement in the treatment groups was limited to three months after prescription; at six months, the treatment and control populations had similar exercise patterns.", "contents": "Exercise prescription: a clinical trial. To assess the effectiveness of physician prescribed exercise, health education, and patient self-monitoring, 124 firefighters were medically screened and randomly allocated to a control and two treatment groups. Physiologic and reporting methods were employed to assess adherence to regular exercise at three months and six months after the initial exercise prescription. Addition of a health education program significantly improved compliance over that achieved by a physician consultation. Self-monitoring did not produce a further increase in compliance. Improvement in the treatment groups was limited to three months after prescription; at six months, the treatment and control populations had similar exercise patterns.", "PMID": 443500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6182", "title": "A hospital-based screening, referral, and follow-up program for high blood pressure.", "content": "A hypertension program staffed largely by volunteer nurses in a hospital outpatient department is described. A three-year evaluation shows 19% of 4,282 clients screened as having high readings, 86% of those referred saw a physician for high blood pressure, 92% of those who saw a physician began treatment for high blood pressure and 50% of those under treatment were showing successful control or progress toward successful control.", "contents": "A hospital-based screening, referral, and follow-up program for high blood pressure. A hypertension program staffed largely by volunteer nurses in a hospital outpatient department is described. A three-year evaluation shows 19% of 4,282 clients screened as having high readings, 86% of those referred saw a physician for high blood pressure, 92% of those who saw a physician began treatment for high blood pressure and 50% of those under treatment were showing successful control or progress toward successful control.", "PMID": 443501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6183", "title": "Rabies in translocated raccoons.", "content": "Two raccoons imported from Florida by a North Carolina hunting club were diagnosed as having rabies by fluorescent antibody testing of brain tissue. Although dead on arrival in North Carolina, they could have infected other raccoons in the same shipment which had already been released into the wild. Raccoon rabies has become increasingly important in recent years, but this is the first documented report of rabies presence in hunter-purchased interstate shipments.", "contents": "Rabies in translocated raccoons. Two raccoons imported from Florida by a North Carolina hunting club were diagnosed as having rabies by fluorescent antibody testing of brain tissue. Although dead on arrival in North Carolina, they could have infected other raccoons in the same shipment which had already been released into the wild. Raccoon rabies has become increasingly important in recent years, but this is the first documented report of rabies presence in hunter-purchased interstate shipments.", "PMID": 443502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6184", "title": "Determinants of genocide fear in a rural Texas community: a research note.", "content": "Data were collected via a questionnaire administered to females 15-44 years of age and their most significant male partner from a 7% stratified random sample in Waller County, Texas. Analysis revealed that five independent variables combined explained 19% of the variance in race genocide fear (R2 = .19; p less than .01). The most important predictors of genocide fear were sex (Beta = .33; p less than .001) and education (Beta = .14; p less than .01).", "contents": "Determinants of genocide fear in a rural Texas community: a research note. Data were collected via a questionnaire administered to females 15-44 years of age and their most significant male partner from a 7% stratified random sample in Waller County, Texas. Analysis revealed that five independent variables combined explained 19% of the variance in race genocide fear (R2 = .19; p less than .01). The most important predictors of genocide fear were sex (Beta = .33; p less than .001) and education (Beta = .14; p less than .01).", "PMID": 443504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6185", "title": "Nitrous oxide and the middle ear.", "content": "A case of hearing deficit following nitrous oxide anaesthesia is reported. The mechanism and time course of nitrous oxide-induced intratympanic pressure changes are described and contrasted with the effects of non-nitrous oxide anaesthesia. The rate of increase is about 10 mm H20/min. The possibility that nitrous oxide may cause displacement of tympanic membrane grafts both outwards and inwards, or disrupt the reconstructed middle ear conducting mechanism, is raised again.", "contents": "Nitrous oxide and the middle ear. A case of hearing deficit following nitrous oxide anaesthesia is reported. The mechanism and time course of nitrous oxide-induced intratympanic pressure changes are described and contrasted with the effects of non-nitrous oxide anaesthesia. The rate of increase is about 10 mm H20/min. The possibility that nitrous oxide may cause displacement of tympanic membrane grafts both outwards and inwards, or disrupt the reconstructed middle ear conducting mechanism, is raised again.", "PMID": 443512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6186", "title": "Electrocution during anaesthesia.", "content": "Cardiac arrest due to electrocution occurred in a young obstetric patient undergoing laparotomy. The patient subsequently died despite initial resuscitation. The cause was traced to an inappropriate and faulty switch in the base of the operating table; the circuit was completed by the ECG monitor which was of the direct earth type.", "contents": "Electrocution during anaesthesia. Cardiac arrest due to electrocution occurred in a young obstetric patient undergoing laparotomy. The patient subsequently died despite initial resuscitation. The cause was traced to an inappropriate and faulty switch in the base of the operating table; the circuit was completed by the ECG monitor which was of the direct earth type.", "PMID": 443513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6187", "title": "Post-partum intracranial subdural haematoma. A possible complication of epidural analgesia.", "content": "A case is reported of bilateral chronic subdural haematomas in a 29-year-old woman 1 month after childbirth under attempted epidural analgesia. The possible link between leakage of cerebrospinal fluid through a hole in the lumbar theca and the later development of an intracranial chronic subdural haematoma is discussed, with a review of eleven previous reported cases.", "contents": "Post-partum intracranial subdural haematoma. A possible complication of epidural analgesia. A case is reported of bilateral chronic subdural haematomas in a 29-year-old woman 1 month after childbirth under attempted epidural analgesia. The possible link between leakage of cerebrospinal fluid through a hole in the lumbar theca and the later development of an intracranial chronic subdural haematoma is discussed, with a review of eleven previous reported cases.", "PMID": 443514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6188", "title": "Potential hazard of methylene blue.", "content": "The administration of methylene blue to assist the identification of insulin secreting pancreatic adenomata, during surgery in a patient with normal haemoglobin and red cells, was associated with an increase in the methaemoglobin concentration from 0.6% to 7.1%. In patients with unstable haemoglobins or abnormalities of the hexose monophosphate pathway the administration of large amounts of methylene blue is potentially dangerous.", "contents": "Potential hazard of methylene blue. The administration of methylene blue to assist the identification of insulin secreting pancreatic adenomata, during surgery in a patient with normal haemoglobin and red cells, was associated with an increase in the methaemoglobin concentration from 0.6% to 7.1%. In patients with unstable haemoglobins or abnormalities of the hexose monophosphate pathway the administration of large amounts of methylene blue is potentially dangerous.", "PMID": 443515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6189", "title": "Hereditary angioneurotic oedema.", "content": "Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is characterised by episodic swelling of the extremities, face, larynx and recurrent abdominal pain, which can mimic the acute abdomen. Trauma of the larynx may result in acute airway obstruction. The management of emergency anaesthesia for Caesarean section of a patient with documented HAE is described and the special problems presented discussed. The methods of prophylaxis available are considered and the use of fresh frozen plasma advocated.", "contents": "Hereditary angioneurotic oedema. Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is characterised by episodic swelling of the extremities, face, larynx and recurrent abdominal pain, which can mimic the acute abdomen. Trauma of the larynx may result in acute airway obstruction. The management of emergency anaesthesia for Caesarean section of a patient with documented HAE is described and the special problems presented discussed. The methods of prophylaxis available are considered and the use of fresh frozen plasma advocated.", "PMID": 443516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6190", "title": "Anaesthesia for the separation of conjoined twins.", "content": "Anaesthesia for separation of thoracopagus twins is described. One twin died 10 hr postoperatively and was found to have an undiagnosed coarctation of the aorta. The second twin required long term respiratory support and survived. The anaesthetic management and postoperative care are discussed.", "contents": "Anaesthesia for the separation of conjoined twins. Anaesthesia for separation of thoracopagus twins is described. One twin died 10 hr postoperatively and was found to have an undiagnosed coarctation of the aorta. The second twin required long term respiratory support and survived. The anaesthetic management and postoperative care are discussed.", "PMID": 443517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6191", "title": "Infusion rates from different containers. A study of the influence of different types of container on intravenous infusion.", "content": "Different types of containers were investigated under standardised conditions to determine whether their design affected the rate of flow of the intravenous solution they contained. Fully collapsible plastic containers were found to empty fastest, with bottles intermediate, while semi-rigid plastic containers were slowest, particularly over the last 20% of their contents. Low flow rates were found to coincide with a high sub-atmospheric pressure within the container, being greatest in the semi-rigid containers and least in the fully collapsible containers. It is suggested, therefore, that resuscitation fluids should be supplied in fully collapsible containers which have an inherent tendency to rapid infusion.", "contents": "Infusion rates from different containers. A study of the influence of different types of container on intravenous infusion. Different types of containers were investigated under standardised conditions to determine whether their design affected the rate of flow of the intravenous solution they contained. Fully collapsible plastic containers were found to empty fastest, with bottles intermediate, while semi-rigid plastic containers were slowest, particularly over the last 20% of their contents. Low flow rates were found to coincide with a high sub-atmospheric pressure within the container, being greatest in the semi-rigid containers and least in the fully collapsible containers. It is suggested, therefore, that resuscitation fluids should be supplied in fully collapsible containers which have an inherent tendency to rapid infusion.", "PMID": 443518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6192", "title": "Treatment for lumbar sciatic pain in posterior articular lumbar joint syndrome.", "content": "One-hundred-and-fifty-four selected patients aged 19--80 years with lumbar sciatic pain of 2-week-30-year duration, treated with percutaneous rhizolysis, epidural block and acupuncture are reviewed. One-hundred-and-eighteen (76.6%) patients were significantly relieved of their pain. One-hundred-and-twenty-two patients (79.2%) underwent rhizolysis. All 154 patients had been previously treated by an orthopaedic surgeon.", "contents": "Treatment for lumbar sciatic pain in posterior articular lumbar joint syndrome. One-hundred-and-fifty-four selected patients aged 19--80 years with lumbar sciatic pain of 2-week-30-year duration, treated with percutaneous rhizolysis, epidural block and acupuncture are reviewed. One-hundred-and-eighteen (76.6%) patients were significantly relieved of their pain. One-hundred-and-twenty-two patients (79.2%) underwent rhizolysis. All 154 patients had been previously treated by an orthopaedic surgeon.", "PMID": 443519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6193", "title": "Morphologic effects of pressure changes on canine carotid artery endothelium as observed by scanning electron microscopy.", "content": "By using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) we were able to follow the sequence of ultrastructural alterations of the luminal surface which occurred when specimens of canine carotid artery were subjected to controlled transmural pressures. Specimens of carotid artery were removed from dogs following fixation at experimental pressures ranging from 0 mm Hg to 100 mm Hg. The endothelium of specimens fixed at 0 mm Hg has parallel longitudinal ridges formed by the contraction of the underlying internal elastic lamina. With increasing transmural pressure, the luminal surface undergoes a gradual flattening of the endothelial ridges so that at 100 mm Hg, these ridges have completely disappeared. The observed morphologic changes of the arterial endothelium indicate that SEM can provide good ultrastructural information on blood vessels subjected to controlled transmural pressure and that the pressure-dependent alterations must be considered in studies on vascular structure and function.", "contents": "Morphologic effects of pressure changes on canine carotid artery endothelium as observed by scanning electron microscopy. By using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) we were able to follow the sequence of ultrastructural alterations of the luminal surface which occurred when specimens of canine carotid artery were subjected to controlled transmural pressures. Specimens of carotid artery were removed from dogs following fixation at experimental pressures ranging from 0 mm Hg to 100 mm Hg. The endothelium of specimens fixed at 0 mm Hg has parallel longitudinal ridges formed by the contraction of the underlying internal elastic lamina. With increasing transmural pressure, the luminal surface undergoes a gradual flattening of the endothelial ridges so that at 100 mm Hg, these ridges have completely disappeared. The observed morphologic changes of the arterial endothelium indicate that SEM can provide good ultrastructural information on blood vessels subjected to controlled transmural pressure and that the pressure-dependent alterations must be considered in studies on vascular structure and function.", "PMID": 443557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6194", "title": "The innervation of the mouse adrenal cortex.", "content": "The fine structure of the mouse adrenal cortex was examined with the electron microscope for the presence of neural elements. Several axon terminals containing mostly clear vesicles (60 nm) were noted in the vicinity (250 nm) of the capsular fibroblasts. In the subcapsular region, myelinated as well as unmyelinated fibers were commonly found. Preterminal and terminal axons were also found in close relationship to the parenchymal cells in the zona glomerulosa. Nerve bundles were the most common neural elements in the zona fasciculata. In the zona reticularis axon terminals containing both clear (60 nm) and dense core (120 nm) vesicles were seen in close proximity (30 nm) to parenchymal cells. Although this study did not delineate the type of fibers involved, the axon terminals resemble those of autonomic nerves. This study demonstrates innervation of the mouse adrenal cortex, thus corroborating similar reports by others in different species.", "contents": "The innervation of the mouse adrenal cortex. The fine structure of the mouse adrenal cortex was examined with the electron microscope for the presence of neural elements. Several axon terminals containing mostly clear vesicles (60 nm) were noted in the vicinity (250 nm) of the capsular fibroblasts. In the subcapsular region, myelinated as well as unmyelinated fibers were commonly found. Preterminal and terminal axons were also found in close relationship to the parenchymal cells in the zona glomerulosa. Nerve bundles were the most common neural elements in the zona fasciculata. In the zona reticularis axon terminals containing both clear (60 nm) and dense core (120 nm) vesicles were seen in close proximity (30 nm) to parenchymal cells. Although this study did not delineate the type of fibers involved, the axon terminals resemble those of autonomic nerves. This study demonstrates innervation of the mouse adrenal cortex, thus corroborating similar reports by others in different species.", "PMID": 443558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6195", "title": "Fine structural differentiation of germ layers in the mouse at the time of mesoderm formation.", "content": "The morphology of early postimplantation mouse egg cylinders was studied using light and electron microscopy. Implantation sites at seven, seven and one-half and eight days of gestation were dissected from the myometrium and whole implants, including both decidua and egg cylinders were processed for electron microscopy. Pre-primitive streak egg cylinders were composed of two germ layers, a tall columnar ectoderm and an outer visceral endodermal layer. Ectodermal cells demonstrated large oval nuclei and an organelle sparse cytoplasm except for many free polyribosomes. The visceral endodermal layer was composed of two cell populations. One visceral endodermal cell type observed was tall columnar in shape and appeared absorptive as demonstrated by many microvilli, pinocytotic profiles and lysosomal granules. This population was confined to extraembryonic regions of the egg cylinder. The second visceral endodermal cell type, squamous in shape, evidenced only a few microvilli, pinocytotic profiles and lysosomal granules. This population was confined to the embryonic region of the egg cylinder. Concurrent with the formation of the primitive streak an increased number of cellular junctions and nuclear pores became evident in the ectoderm. Mesodermal cells were large and stellate-shaped exhibiting many filapodia which made contact with adjacent mesodermal elements. Later the cephalic region of the primitive streak proliferated resulting in the migration of wedge-shaped mass of cells, the head process. At the most ventral extremity of the post-primitive streak egg cylinder the cells of the head process became intimately associated with the ectoderm by areas of focal contact and gap junctions.", "contents": "Fine structural differentiation of germ layers in the mouse at the time of mesoderm formation. The morphology of early postimplantation mouse egg cylinders was studied using light and electron microscopy. Implantation sites at seven, seven and one-half and eight days of gestation were dissected from the myometrium and whole implants, including both decidua and egg cylinders were processed for electron microscopy. Pre-primitive streak egg cylinders were composed of two germ layers, a tall columnar ectoderm and an outer visceral endodermal layer. Ectodermal cells demonstrated large oval nuclei and an organelle sparse cytoplasm except for many free polyribosomes. The visceral endodermal layer was composed of two cell populations. One visceral endodermal cell type observed was tall columnar in shape and appeared absorptive as demonstrated by many microvilli, pinocytotic profiles and lysosomal granules. This population was confined to extraembryonic regions of the egg cylinder. The second visceral endodermal cell type, squamous in shape, evidenced only a few microvilli, pinocytotic profiles and lysosomal granules. This population was confined to the embryonic region of the egg cylinder. Concurrent with the formation of the primitive streak an increased number of cellular junctions and nuclear pores became evident in the ectoderm. Mesodermal cells were large and stellate-shaped exhibiting many filapodia which made contact with adjacent mesodermal elements. Later the cephalic region of the primitive streak proliferated resulting in the migration of wedge-shaped mass of cells, the head process. At the most ventral extremity of the post-primitive streak egg cylinder the cells of the head process became intimately associated with the ectoderm by areas of focal contact and gap junctions.", "PMID": 443559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6196", "title": "Morphology of the perforating cartilage canals in the proximal tibial growth plate of the chick.", "content": "Perforating canals arise exclusively from junctional canals just above the reserve zone and they do not branch after entering the proliferative zone. They are uniformly spaced and arranged in parallel array. The cartilage canals terminate near the beginning of the zone of hypertrophic cartilage cells. Vascular components within the perforating canals consist of a central arteriole surrounded by enlarged, interconnected capillaries which are individually in contact with the adjacent cartilage matrix. TEM shows that the capillary endothelium is extremely attenuated, possesses numerous fenestrations and lacks a continuous basement membrane. The central arteriole is enlarged through the midpart of the canal and then narrows to communicate with the capillaries near the bottom of the canal. The large capillaries ascend from their point of origin and recombine near the top of the growth plate to exit as a single venule. The vascular arrangement therefore describes a system in which the outgoing blood runs in close proximity, but counter to, the incoming blood. This vascular arrangement within the perforating cartilage canal would most likely allow the zone of maturing cartilage cells to receive the highest concentration of nutrients.", "contents": "Morphology of the perforating cartilage canals in the proximal tibial growth plate of the chick. Perforating canals arise exclusively from junctional canals just above the reserve zone and they do not branch after entering the proliferative zone. They are uniformly spaced and arranged in parallel array. The cartilage canals terminate near the beginning of the zone of hypertrophic cartilage cells. Vascular components within the perforating canals consist of a central arteriole surrounded by enlarged, interconnected capillaries which are individually in contact with the adjacent cartilage matrix. TEM shows that the capillary endothelium is extremely attenuated, possesses numerous fenestrations and lacks a continuous basement membrane. The central arteriole is enlarged through the midpart of the canal and then narrows to communicate with the capillaries near the bottom of the canal. The large capillaries ascend from their point of origin and recombine near the top of the growth plate to exit as a single venule. The vascular arrangement therefore describes a system in which the outgoing blood runs in close proximity, but counter to, the incoming blood. This vascular arrangement within the perforating cartilage canal would most likely allow the zone of maturing cartilage cells to receive the highest concentration of nutrients.", "PMID": 443560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6197", "title": "Transventricular blood vessels in the third ventricle of the armadillo brain.", "content": "Transventricular filaments were observed with scanning electron microscopy on the dorsolateral wall of the infundibular recess of the third ventricle of the armadillo brain. Two to seven transventricular filaments per animal were present in 6 of 18 animals. There were two types of transventricular filaments, ciliated and bare. Using transmission electron microscopy, we determined that these filaments consisted of a single, central capillary surrounded by ciliated ependymal cells and a small accumulation of axons in five animals. In one animal, a bare filament had a central capillary surrounded by a large accumulation of axons with no surrounding ependyma. The consistent location and structure of these filaments indicate a possible function for a small vascular network, as well as a possible commissural network connecting right and left hypothalami in the region of infundibular nuclei.", "contents": "Transventricular blood vessels in the third ventricle of the armadillo brain. Transventricular filaments were observed with scanning electron microscopy on the dorsolateral wall of the infundibular recess of the third ventricle of the armadillo brain. Two to seven transventricular filaments per animal were present in 6 of 18 animals. There were two types of transventricular filaments, ciliated and bare. Using transmission electron microscopy, we determined that these filaments consisted of a single, central capillary surrounded by ciliated ependymal cells and a small accumulation of axons in five animals. In one animal, a bare filament had a central capillary surrounded by a large accumulation of axons with no surrounding ependyma. The consistent location and structure of these filaments indicate a possible function for a small vascular network, as well as a possible commissural network connecting right and left hypothalami in the region of infundibular nuclei.", "PMID": 443562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6198", "title": "Survey of the morphology of the dog kidney.", "content": "Dogs are frequent subjects in experimental studies of renal physiology and pathology in spite of the paucity of information on their normal renal morphology. In this study, gross morphology, light microscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to describe dog renal anatomy. The dog has a multilobed kidney with the medulla fused into an elongate crest and a renal pelvis of elaborate shape. The outer zone of the medulla lacks a definitive outer stripe. The proximal tubule consists of four distinct anatomical segments. Dark cells are abundant in the collecting duct of the inner medulla. The majority of the nephron segments demonstrate remarkable similarities to those of the human kidney and less to those of the kidney of the laboratory rat.", "contents": "Survey of the morphology of the dog kidney. Dogs are frequent subjects in experimental studies of renal physiology and pathology in spite of the paucity of information on their normal renal morphology. In this study, gross morphology, light microscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to describe dog renal anatomy. The dog has a multilobed kidney with the medulla fused into an elongate crest and a renal pelvis of elaborate shape. The outer zone of the medulla lacks a definitive outer stripe. The proximal tubule consists of four distinct anatomical segments. Dark cells are abundant in the collecting duct of the inner medulla. The majority of the nephron segments demonstrate remarkable similarities to those of the human kidney and less to those of the kidney of the laboratory rat.", "PMID": 443563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6199", "title": "The morphology of extrachoroidal ependyma overlying gray and white matter in the rabbit lateral ventricle.", "content": "A morphologic investigation of ependyma over gray matter (caudate nucleus) and over periventricular white matter (tapetum) of the rabbit lateral ventricle was undertaken prior to evaluation of morphological changes which occur with experimental hydrocephalus. Ependymal cells over the caudate nucleus are cuboidal and heavily ciliated. Numerous microvilli cover the cell surface. The lateral margins are straight and interdigitations between adjacent ependymal cells are absent. Ependymal cells over white matter are squamous. Nonciliated as well as ciliated cells contribute to the epithelial lining. Microvilli are present at the cell surface but tend to aggregate near the cellular borders. The lateral margins are convoluted and complex interdigitations are present between adjacent cells. Morphologic differences between ependymal cells over the caudate nucleus and those over periventricular white matter may help to explain the differential response to hydrocephalus observed in these two regions of the lateral ventricle.", "contents": "The morphology of extrachoroidal ependyma overlying gray and white matter in the rabbit lateral ventricle. A morphologic investigation of ependyma over gray matter (caudate nucleus) and over periventricular white matter (tapetum) of the rabbit lateral ventricle was undertaken prior to evaluation of morphological changes which occur with experimental hydrocephalus. Ependymal cells over the caudate nucleus are cuboidal and heavily ciliated. Numerous microvilli cover the cell surface. The lateral margins are straight and interdigitations between adjacent ependymal cells are absent. Ependymal cells over white matter are squamous. Nonciliated as well as ciliated cells contribute to the epithelial lining. Microvilli are present at the cell surface but tend to aggregate near the cellular borders. The lateral margins are convoluted and complex interdigitations are present between adjacent cells. Morphologic differences between ependymal cells over the caudate nucleus and those over periventricular white matter may help to explain the differential response to hydrocephalus observed in these two regions of the lateral ventricle.", "PMID": 443564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6200", "title": "[Amino acid composition of human semen from different clinical diagnoses].", "content": "The amino acid analysis of human semen shows for the different clinical diagnoses the predominant amino acids aspartic acid, serine, glycine, leucine and lysine. Analytical data indicate that there were differences in the amino acid composition between oligo- or azoospermia and terato- or asthenozoospermia by aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, glycine, alanine and isoleucine.", "contents": "[Amino acid composition of human semen from different clinical diagnoses]. The amino acid analysis of human semen shows for the different clinical diagnoses the predominant amino acids aspartic acid, serine, glycine, leucine and lysine. Analytical data indicate that there were differences in the amino acid composition between oligo- or azoospermia and terato- or asthenozoospermia by aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, glycine, alanine and isoleucine.", "PMID": 443565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6201", "title": "[Average concentrations of FSH and LH in seminal plasma as determined by radioimmunoassay].", "content": "In 322 males, 25 to 50 years of age, levels of LH and FSH respectively were determined in seminal plasma by radioimmunoassay. Average values of 0,78 ng/ml and 3.95 ng/ml were found as for FSH and LH respectively. Sperm count and mortality were not related to FSH levels, but were to LH levels. A high count of spermatozoa corresponded to high concentration of LH, and normal motility was associated with higher levels of LH as compared to levels associated with asthenozoospermia. With respect to count of spermatozoa of a single or the average patient, it is suggested that the ratio of FSH/LH would be more meaningful than LH level alone.", "contents": "[Average concentrations of FSH and LH in seminal plasma as determined by radioimmunoassay]. In 322 males, 25 to 50 years of age, levels of LH and FSH respectively were determined in seminal plasma by radioimmunoassay. Average values of 0,78 ng/ml and 3.95 ng/ml were found as for FSH and LH respectively. Sperm count and mortality were not related to FSH levels, but were to LH levels. A high count of spermatozoa corresponded to high concentration of LH, and normal motility was associated with higher levels of LH as compared to levels associated with asthenozoospermia. With respect to count of spermatozoa of a single or the average patient, it is suggested that the ratio of FSH/LH would be more meaningful than LH level alone.", "PMID": 443566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6202", "title": "Vitality and morphology of human spermatozoa. Studies on the resistance to storage and centrifugation and on the removal of dead spermatozoa.", "content": "The effect of storage of human spermatozoa at room temperature and in the refrigerator was studied. Loss of vitality was found to be linear and the same within the temperature range studied. Vitality was reduced by 0,9% per hour on average. The rate of this loss did not show much variation. The morphology of both all spermatozoa and the living sperm population studied separately was only slightly impaired by storage. The effect of centrifugation and resuspension of spermatozoa was studied separately. Vitality was found to be reduced by gravitation forces of 800 g for 20 minutes whereas no effect on morphology was noted by this treatment. Gravitation forces of 600 g and below did not significantly affect the spermatozoa. Two methods of separation of spermatozoa with better motility and morphology from the rest of the semen sample were studied, (1) filtration through a layer of glass beads, (2) \"sperm rise\" after centrifugation at low gravitation force. The clinical value of these procedures is probably limited to selected cases.", "contents": "Vitality and morphology of human spermatozoa. Studies on the resistance to storage and centrifugation and on the removal of dead spermatozoa. The effect of storage of human spermatozoa at room temperature and in the refrigerator was studied. Loss of vitality was found to be linear and the same within the temperature range studied. Vitality was reduced by 0,9% per hour on average. The rate of this loss did not show much variation. The morphology of both all spermatozoa and the living sperm population studied separately was only slightly impaired by storage. The effect of centrifugation and resuspension of spermatozoa was studied separately. Vitality was found to be reduced by gravitation forces of 800 g for 20 minutes whereas no effect on morphology was noted by this treatment. Gravitation forces of 600 g and below did not significantly affect the spermatozoa. Two methods of separation of spermatozoa with better motility and morphology from the rest of the semen sample were studied, (1) filtration through a layer of glass beads, (2) \"sperm rise\" after centrifugation at low gravitation force. The clinical value of these procedures is probably limited to selected cases.", "PMID": 443567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6203", "title": "Sperm concentration in different parts of the epididymis of buffalo-bulls by micropuncture technique.", "content": "Spermatocrit values of the epididymal fluid were determined in 8 buffalo-bulls by micropuncture technique. The spermatocrit index in caput and cauda epididymidis was 42.63 +/- 0.79 and 56.13 +/- 0.94 per cent respectively. Based on this study it was calculated that 13.5 per cent of the fluid is resorbed between caput and cauda epididymidis.", "contents": "Sperm concentration in different parts of the epididymis of buffalo-bulls by micropuncture technique. Spermatocrit values of the epididymal fluid were determined in 8 buffalo-bulls by micropuncture technique. The spermatocrit index in caput and cauda epididymidis was 42.63 +/- 0.79 and 56.13 +/- 0.94 per cent respectively. Based on this study it was calculated that 13.5 per cent of the fluid is resorbed between caput and cauda epididymidis.", "PMID": 443568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6204", "title": "In vitro studies on histochemical localization of testicular delta5-3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity from indomethacin pretreated rats--effect of prostaglandins and luteinizing hormone.", "content": "In vitro studies on the effect of LH and prostaglandins on delta5 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity using indomethacin pre-treated testis as the experimental model, revealed a greater stimulation of the enzyme activity when the incubation medium contained LH and PGE2 both at a concentration of 1 microgram/ml in comparison to the effect produced by 1 microgram LH/ml alone, but the augmentory effect of PGE2 on testicular response to LH was not evidenced as the LH: PGE2 ratio became 1 : 10. Neither PGE2 nor PGF2A produced any stimulation of the enzyme activity at concentrations of 1, 10, or 20 microgram/ml in the incubating medium. PGF2A at concentrations of 1 or 10 microgram/ml did not appear to interfere with LH action on this steroidogenic enzyme. On the contrary, prostaglandins, both PGE2 and PGF2A, at concentrations of 20 microgram/ml, antagonized LH action over testicular delta5-3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. On the basis of these findings, it appears that prostaglandin E2 in some way, is necessary for manifestation of the steroidogenic action of LH in testis.", "contents": "In vitro studies on histochemical localization of testicular delta5-3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity from indomethacin pretreated rats--effect of prostaglandins and luteinizing hormone. In vitro studies on the effect of LH and prostaglandins on delta5 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity using indomethacin pre-treated testis as the experimental model, revealed a greater stimulation of the enzyme activity when the incubation medium contained LH and PGE2 both at a concentration of 1 microgram/ml in comparison to the effect produced by 1 microgram LH/ml alone, but the augmentory effect of PGE2 on testicular response to LH was not evidenced as the LH: PGE2 ratio became 1 : 10. Neither PGE2 nor PGF2A produced any stimulation of the enzyme activity at concentrations of 1, 10, or 20 microgram/ml in the incubating medium. PGF2A at concentrations of 1 or 10 microgram/ml did not appear to interfere with LH action on this steroidogenic enzyme. On the contrary, prostaglandins, both PGE2 and PGF2A, at concentrations of 20 microgram/ml, antagonized LH action over testicular delta5-3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. On the basis of these findings, it appears that prostaglandin E2 in some way, is necessary for manifestation of the steroidogenic action of LH in testis.", "PMID": 443569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6205", "title": "Decline of serum phosphorus in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, SGOT, CPK, and LDH were measured in 61 patients admitted to a coronary care unit. In 34 the ECG and enzymes confirmed an acute myocardial infarction, whereas the remaining 27 did not have an acute myocardial infarction. The serum phosphorus declined significantly in those with the acute infarction compared to the control group. The fall was most marked in the third and fourth postinfarction day, and by the fifth day had returned to baseline values. The serum calcium and magnesium did not change significantly over the 5 days. Thus the fall in the serum phosphorus serves as a sensitive indicator of acute myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Decline of serum phosphorus in acute myocardial infarction. Levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, SGOT, CPK, and LDH were measured in 61 patients admitted to a coronary care unit. In 34 the ECG and enzymes confirmed an acute myocardial infarction, whereas the remaining 27 did not have an acute myocardial infarction. The serum phosphorus declined significantly in those with the acute infarction compared to the control group. The fall was most marked in the third and fourth postinfarction day, and by the fifth day had returned to baseline values. The serum calcium and magnesium did not change significantly over the 5 days. Thus the fall in the serum phosphorus serves as a sensitive indicator of acute myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 443587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6206", "title": "Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the symptomatic management of thrombophlebitis.", "content": "Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) afforded significant relief of the pain associated with acute and recurrent thrombophlebitis in 90% of 39 patients so treated. The method is simple to administer, noninvasive, and apparently free of side effects. It can be self-administered by the patient after appropriate instruction. TENS can be given in conjunction with analgesics, anticoagulant therapy, and other supportive measures to achieve greater relief and mobility in patients with thrombophlebitis whose occupations and other activities are severely limited by their pain. Further clinical trials involving larger numbers of patients, and clarification of the analgesic mechanisms involved, are warranted because of the magnitude of this problem. TENS therapy can be uniquely beneficial in certain clinical situations. They include the contraindication of conventional treatments for the pain of thrombophlebitis, pelvic vein phlebitis, and the presence of concomitant painful orthopedic and neurologic disorders.", "contents": "Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the symptomatic management of thrombophlebitis. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) afforded significant relief of the pain associated with acute and recurrent thrombophlebitis in 90% of 39 patients so treated. The method is simple to administer, noninvasive, and apparently free of side effects. It can be self-administered by the patient after appropriate instruction. TENS can be given in conjunction with analgesics, anticoagulant therapy, and other supportive measures to achieve greater relief and mobility in patients with thrombophlebitis whose occupations and other activities are severely limited by their pain. Further clinical trials involving larger numbers of patients, and clarification of the analgesic mechanisms involved, are warranted because of the magnitude of this problem. TENS therapy can be uniquely beneficial in certain clinical situations. They include the contraindication of conventional treatments for the pain of thrombophlebitis, pelvic vein phlebitis, and the presence of concomitant painful orthopedic and neurologic disorders.", "PMID": 443590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6207", "title": "Prognostic value of radionuclide angiography in cerebral vascular disease.", "content": "To ascertain the prognostic value of the radionuclide angiogram in ischemic cerebral vascular disease, we reviewed the results of this study in 2200 patients who underwent this procedure. The arterial phase showed decreased activity in 175 patients studied in detail during the acute phase of their neurologic illnesses. In the 120 patients who proved to have ischemic disease and persisting neurologic signs, two basic patterns appeared during the venous phase: (1) no increased (diminished or equal) perfusion, or (2) increased perfusion. Following the initial incident, the clinical course varied from no change to marked clinical improvement. In the first group with either diminished or equal venous perfusion, the chances against improvement are greater than 6:1. In the latter group the chances for improvement or deterioration are equal.", "contents": "Prognostic value of radionuclide angiography in cerebral vascular disease. To ascertain the prognostic value of the radionuclide angiogram in ischemic cerebral vascular disease, we reviewed the results of this study in 2200 patients who underwent this procedure. The arterial phase showed decreased activity in 175 patients studied in detail during the acute phase of their neurologic illnesses. In the 120 patients who proved to have ischemic disease and persisting neurologic signs, two basic patterns appeared during the venous phase: (1) no increased (diminished or equal) perfusion, or (2) increased perfusion. Following the initial incident, the clinical course varied from no change to marked clinical improvement. In the first group with either diminished or equal venous perfusion, the chances against improvement are greater than 6:1. In the latter group the chances for improvement or deterioration are equal.", "PMID": 443591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6208", "title": "Cardiac function and hemodynamic parameters after pentaerythritol tetranitrate: assessment by a noninvasive radionuclide technique.", "content": "The availability of a relatively small computer with programming providing multiple-gated acquisition capability (MUGA) permits the measurement of ejection fraction and evaluation of ventricular wall motion without the need for invasive techniques. It is probable that the various nitrates available--nitroglycerin, PETN, and isosorbide dinitrate--have somewhat different hemodynamic effects, and that the radionuclide technique can assist in determining these differences and may help to predict which agents might be most appropriate in specific situations.", "contents": "Cardiac function and hemodynamic parameters after pentaerythritol tetranitrate: assessment by a noninvasive radionuclide technique. The availability of a relatively small computer with programming providing multiple-gated acquisition capability (MUGA) permits the measurement of ejection fraction and evaluation of ventricular wall motion without the need for invasive techniques. It is probable that the various nitrates available--nitroglycerin, PETN, and isosorbide dinitrate--have somewhat different hemodynamic effects, and that the radionuclide technique can assist in determining these differences and may help to predict which agents might be most appropriate in specific situations.", "PMID": 443593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6209", "title": "Bilateral congenital coronary artery--pulmonary artery fistulae: report of two unusual cases.", "content": "Congenital coronary arteriovenous fistulae involving both coronary arteries are rare. Those terminating in a right heart chamber or the pulmonary artery usually mimic a patent ductus arteriosus because of the presence of a continuous murmur. Since the vascular resistance is much lower in the pulmonary circuit than in myocardial capillaries, a large percentage of coronary blood flow may be directed through the fistula. Such a \"steal\" can cause myocardial ischemia distal to the origin of the fistula. Angina has been reported to occur. About 20% of coronary A-V fistulae are associated with other congenital cardiac anomalies.", "contents": "Bilateral congenital coronary artery--pulmonary artery fistulae: report of two unusual cases. Congenital coronary arteriovenous fistulae involving both coronary arteries are rare. Those terminating in a right heart chamber or the pulmonary artery usually mimic a patent ductus arteriosus because of the presence of a continuous murmur. Since the vascular resistance is much lower in the pulmonary circuit than in myocardial capillaries, a large percentage of coronary blood flow may be directed through the fistula. Such a \"steal\" can cause myocardial ischemia distal to the origin of the fistula. Angina has been reported to occur. About 20% of coronary A-V fistulae are associated with other congenital cardiac anomalies.", "PMID": 443594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6210", "title": "Abdominal angina and mesenteric insufficiency.", "content": "Chronic bowel ischemia is not uncommon. If it is considered in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders, it can be corrected surgically. In selected cases symptomatic relief can be achieved, and thus high mortality and morbidity can be prevented.", "contents": "Abdominal angina and mesenteric insufficiency. Chronic bowel ischemia is not uncommon. If it is considered in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders, it can be corrected surgically. In selected cases symptomatic relief can be achieved, and thus high mortality and morbidity can be prevented.", "PMID": 443595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6211", "title": "Echocardiographic findings of posterior wall false aneurysm: case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A case of angiographically proven posterolateral left ventricular false aneurysm is presented. The patient underwent successful surgery. The echocardiogram revealed large echo-free spaces behind the posterior wall of the left ventricle, delineated by pericardial echoes and lined internally by extra echoes. These echocardiographic findings are consistent with false aneurysm containing a clot. This report indicates that in patients with previous infarction and distorted cardiac silhouette, echo-cardiography may be helpful in the diagnosis of true or false ventricular aneurysm.", "contents": "Echocardiographic findings of posterior wall false aneurysm: case report and review of the literature. A case of angiographically proven posterolateral left ventricular false aneurysm is presented. The patient underwent successful surgery. The echocardiogram revealed large echo-free spaces behind the posterior wall of the left ventricle, delineated by pericardial echoes and lined internally by extra echoes. These echocardiographic findings are consistent with false aneurysm containing a clot. This report indicates that in patients with previous infarction and distorted cardiac silhouette, echo-cardiography may be helpful in the diagnosis of true or false ventricular aneurysm.", "PMID": 443596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6212", "title": "Anemia producing mitral valve flutter on the echocardiogram.", "content": "Thirty-four patients in sinus rhythm with anemia due to chronic renal failure and one subject with chronic uterine bleeding were studied by means of echocardiography. Six patients (18%) had major diastolic fluttering of the mitral valve, and in 4 others the fluttering was equivocal. No subject had auscultatory or other clinical evidence of aortic insufficiency. In the patient with uterine hemorrhage, diastolic mitral valve motion reverted to normal after blood transfusion. It is concluded that anemia may produce diastolic mitral valve fluttering, which is probably based on increased blood flow in this setting. Caution should be exercised in ascribing diastolic murmurs associated with uremia to aortic regurgitation when anemia is present.", "contents": "Anemia producing mitral valve flutter on the echocardiogram. Thirty-four patients in sinus rhythm with anemia due to chronic renal failure and one subject with chronic uterine bleeding were studied by means of echocardiography. Six patients (18%) had major diastolic fluttering of the mitral valve, and in 4 others the fluttering was equivocal. No subject had auscultatory or other clinical evidence of aortic insufficiency. In the patient with uterine hemorrhage, diastolic mitral valve motion reverted to normal after blood transfusion. It is concluded that anemia may produce diastolic mitral valve fluttering, which is probably based on increased blood flow in this setting. Caution should be exercised in ascribing diastolic murmurs associated with uremia to aortic regurgitation when anemia is present.", "PMID": 443597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6213", "title": "Diastolic flutter of aortic valves in aortic regurgitation: a report of seven cases.", "content": "Seven patients with aortic regurgitation, manifesting diastolic flutter of the aortic valve cusps (DFAVC) in the echograms, are described. Five patients with infective endocarditis revealed coarse or fine, irregular DFAVC. Two patients with severe aortic regurgitation and a musical murmur manifested regular DFAVC with a frequency identical to that of a simultaneously recorded diastolic murmur. Of the 5 patients with infective endocarditis, 4 required urgent aortic valve replacement and 1 died. The 2 patients with musical murmurs are clinically stable without surgery. This report extends the clinical spectrum of patients with DFAVC and describes the character of the flutter in patients with muscial murmurs. Furthermore, it suggests that DFAVC is a sign of severe aortic regurgitation.", "contents": "Diastolic flutter of aortic valves in aortic regurgitation: a report of seven cases. Seven patients with aortic regurgitation, manifesting diastolic flutter of the aortic valve cusps (DFAVC) in the echograms, are described. Five patients with infective endocarditis revealed coarse or fine, irregular DFAVC. Two patients with severe aortic regurgitation and a musical murmur manifested regular DFAVC with a frequency identical to that of a simultaneously recorded diastolic murmur. Of the 5 patients with infective endocarditis, 4 required urgent aortic valve replacement and 1 died. The 2 patients with musical murmurs are clinically stable without surgery. This report extends the clinical spectrum of patients with DFAVC and describes the character of the flutter in patients with muscial murmurs. Furthermore, it suggests that DFAVC is a sign of severe aortic regurgitation.", "PMID": 443598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6214", "title": "Calf blood flow and systolic blood pressure in patients with hyperviscosity of the blood.", "content": "The calf blood flow and the ankle blood pressure at rest and during post-ischemic reactive hyperemia were measured by an airfilled rubber segment plethysmograph in 5 patients with hyperviscosity of the blood. The patients had no signs of peripheral arterial disease. A normal flow and pressure pattern was obtained. It is concluded that hyperviscosity does not contribute significantly to the peripheral resistance during reactive hyperemia in the patients studied. The importance of hyperviscosity for peripheral resistance in patients with atherosclerosis obliterans is discussed.", "contents": "Calf blood flow and systolic blood pressure in patients with hyperviscosity of the blood. The calf blood flow and the ankle blood pressure at rest and during post-ischemic reactive hyperemia were measured by an airfilled rubber segment plethysmograph in 5 patients with hyperviscosity of the blood. The patients had no signs of peripheral arterial disease. A normal flow and pressure pattern was obtained. It is concluded that hyperviscosity does not contribute significantly to the peripheral resistance during reactive hyperemia in the patients studied. The importance of hyperviscosity for peripheral resistance in patients with atherosclerosis obliterans is discussed.", "PMID": 443600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6215", "title": "Localization of acid and alkaline phosphatase activities in the blood vessels of normotensive and hypertensive rats.", "content": "Samples of aortae and caudal arteries from normotensive and hypertensive rats were studied for cytochemical and biochemical determinations of acid and alkaline phosphatase activities. Cytochemical examination revealed an increased amount of acid phosphatase reaction product in hypertensive samples, with extensive localization to the extracellular matrix. Alkaline phosphatase activity was localized to the plasma membrane of fibroblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells and to the extracellular matrix. Biochemical assays of enzyme activities supported the cytochemical findings, showing increased activity in aortae from hypertensive rats.", "contents": "Localization of acid and alkaline phosphatase activities in the blood vessels of normotensive and hypertensive rats. Samples of aortae and caudal arteries from normotensive and hypertensive rats were studied for cytochemical and biochemical determinations of acid and alkaline phosphatase activities. Cytochemical examination revealed an increased amount of acid phosphatase reaction product in hypertensive samples, with extensive localization to the extracellular matrix. Alkaline phosphatase activity was localized to the plasma membrane of fibroblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells and to the extracellular matrix. Biochemical assays of enzyme activities supported the cytochemical findings, showing increased activity in aortae from hypertensive rats.", "PMID": 443601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6216", "title": "A simple technique for measuring arterial blood pressures in conscious human subjects.", "content": "A new technique for measuring blood pressure utilizes the subject's ability to sense the onset and cessation of the Korotkoff phenomenon within the artery itself. Of the readings made in this manner with a standard arm cuff 94% were found to agree within +/- 10 mm Hg with readings made with a stethoscope. And 91% of the blood pressures measured by this technique using an infant cuff on the thumb were found to agree within +/- 10 mm Hg with those measured by the same technique with a standard cuff at the brachial artery. Therefore a simple device was designed with which subjects can measure their own systolic and diastolic blood pressure by utilizing a combined syringe and cuff applied to the thumb. There was a mean systolic difference of 4.7 and a mean diastolic difference of 6.1 mm Hg between readings made on 40 subjects with the new instrument and those made with a mercury sphygmomanometer.", "contents": "A simple technique for measuring arterial blood pressures in conscious human subjects. A new technique for measuring blood pressure utilizes the subject's ability to sense the onset and cessation of the Korotkoff phenomenon within the artery itself. Of the readings made in this manner with a standard arm cuff 94% were found to agree within +/- 10 mm Hg with readings made with a stethoscope. And 91% of the blood pressures measured by this technique using an infant cuff on the thumb were found to agree within +/- 10 mm Hg with those measured by the same technique with a standard cuff at the brachial artery. Therefore a simple device was designed with which subjects can measure their own systolic and diastolic blood pressure by utilizing a combined syringe and cuff applied to the thumb. There was a mean systolic difference of 4.7 and a mean diastolic difference of 6.1 mm Hg between readings made on 40 subjects with the new instrument and those made with a mercury sphygmomanometer.", "PMID": 443603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6217", "title": "\"Push-up palpitations\": unusual presentation of ruptured chordae tendineae: a case report.", "content": "A 47-year-old man experienced palpitations and shortness of breath following push-up exercises. Because of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and fatigue, the patient underwent investigation. Echocardiography and cardiac catheterization indicated the diagnoses of mitral valve prolapse and rupture of the chordae tendineae. This report represents the first description of such a sequence of events.", "contents": "\"Push-up palpitations\": unusual presentation of ruptured chordae tendineae: a case report. A 47-year-old man experienced palpitations and shortness of breath following push-up exercises. Because of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and fatigue, the patient underwent investigation. Echocardiography and cardiac catheterization indicated the diagnoses of mitral valve prolapse and rupture of the chordae tendineae. This report represents the first description of such a sequence of events.", "PMID": 443604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6218", "title": "[Methods of estimation of urinary kallikrein activity (author's transl)].", "content": "Catalysing the liberation of kinins, vasodilator and sodium duiretic substances, renal and urinary kallikreins are identical. The urinary excretion of kallikrein may be evaluated by various methods, biological, radioisotopic or enzymatic, giving comparable results. Specific radioimmunoassay of urinary kallikrein in man and the rat have been recently published. Details are given of a rapid and convenient enzyme method.", "contents": "[Methods of estimation of urinary kallikrein activity (author's transl)]. Catalysing the liberation of kinins, vasodilator and sodium duiretic substances, renal and urinary kallikreins are identical. The urinary excretion of kallikrein may be evaluated by various methods, biological, radioisotopic or enzymatic, giving comparable results. Specific radioimmunoassay of urinary kallikrein in man and the rat have been recently published. Details are given of a rapid and convenient enzyme method.", "PMID": 443606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6219", "title": "[Monoaminergic theories in depressive illness (author's transl)].", "content": "The biochemical exploration in man is limited by ethical and technical factors. Results are contradictory and it is only by the mean of the antidepressants used as pharmacological tools that monoaminergic hypotheses have been made. The specificity of action of these drugs is very different from one substance to another and the post synaptic impact of the antidepressants is more important than it was thought before. Finally the monoaminergic hypothesis is too simple and cannot summarize the biochemical factors in depression.", "contents": "[Monoaminergic theories in depressive illness (author's transl)]. The biochemical exploration in man is limited by ethical and technical factors. Results are contradictory and it is only by the mean of the antidepressants used as pharmacological tools that monoaminergic hypotheses have been made. The specificity of action of these drugs is very different from one substance to another and the post synaptic impact of the antidepressants is more important than it was thought before. Finally the monoaminergic hypothesis is too simple and cannot summarize the biochemical factors in depression.", "PMID": 443609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6220", "title": "Study of disturbed tryptophan metabolism in depressive illness.", "content": "The evidence for disturbances of tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptamine in depression and for various mechanisms by which such disturbances could occur is discussed. Two recent relevant studies in the author's laboratory are described: a) non-esterified fatty acid and total and free tryptophan were determined in plasmas of psychiatric patients unselected with respect to psychiatric diagnosis before and after a stress situation. Retarded patients had significantly low total and free tryptophan values which correlated negatively with agitation. Total tryptophan fell significantly after stress in the non-retarded subjects. The only biochemical abnormality significantly associated with a diagnosis of primary depression was the rise of plasma non-esterified fatty acid after stress. Thus tryptophan abnormalities were associated more with psychiatric rating scores than with diagnoses. b) Determinations on plasma and lumbar and ventricular CSF from psychiatric patients undergoing psychosurgery indicate that low plasma free tryptophan concentrations are associated with decreased 5HT turnover in the central nervous system.", "contents": "Study of disturbed tryptophan metabolism in depressive illness. The evidence for disturbances of tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptamine in depression and for various mechanisms by which such disturbances could occur is discussed. Two recent relevant studies in the author's laboratory are described: a) non-esterified fatty acid and total and free tryptophan were determined in plasmas of psychiatric patients unselected with respect to psychiatric diagnosis before and after a stress situation. Retarded patients had significantly low total and free tryptophan values which correlated negatively with agitation. Total tryptophan fell significantly after stress in the non-retarded subjects. The only biochemical abnormality significantly associated with a diagnosis of primary depression was the rise of plasma non-esterified fatty acid after stress. Thus tryptophan abnormalities were associated more with psychiatric rating scores than with diagnoses. b) Determinations on plasma and lumbar and ventricular CSF from psychiatric patients undergoing psychosurgery indicate that low plasma free tryptophan concentrations are associated with decreased 5HT turnover in the central nervous system.", "PMID": 443610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6221", "title": "Blood platelets as models for central 5-hydroxytryptaminergic neurons.", "content": "Blood platelets resemble 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) with regard to uptake kinetics of 5HT at the plasma membrane and potencies of 5HT uptake inhibitors at this membrane. Furthermore, by comparing 5HT uptake in normal and reserpinized platelets the site of action of uptake inhibitors (plasma membrane, intracellular amine storage organelles) may be determined. The specific 5HT receptors of platelets whose stimulation induces a reversible shape change of platelets seem to react to drugs in a similar way as 5HT receptors of some CNS-regions such as spinal cord, cortex and possibly reticular formation. In other CNS areas e.g. those with dense 5HT innervation and the hippocampus the 5HT receptors show a reaction to drugs which is partially different from that of the platelet receptors. In other respects e.g. the synthesis and turnover of 5HT platelets do not resemble 5HT neurons. It is concluded that platelets may be used with caution as models for 5HT-neurons with regard to some aspect of 5HT-dynamics.", "contents": "Blood platelets as models for central 5-hydroxytryptaminergic neurons. Blood platelets resemble 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) with regard to uptake kinetics of 5HT at the plasma membrane and potencies of 5HT uptake inhibitors at this membrane. Furthermore, by comparing 5HT uptake in normal and reserpinized platelets the site of action of uptake inhibitors (plasma membrane, intracellular amine storage organelles) may be determined. The specific 5HT receptors of platelets whose stimulation induces a reversible shape change of platelets seem to react to drugs in a similar way as 5HT receptors of some CNS-regions such as spinal cord, cortex and possibly reticular formation. In other CNS areas e.g. those with dense 5HT innervation and the hippocampus the 5HT receptors show a reaction to drugs which is partially different from that of the platelet receptors. In other respects e.g. the synthesis and turnover of 5HT platelets do not resemble 5HT neurons. It is concluded that platelets may be used with caution as models for 5HT-neurons with regard to some aspect of 5HT-dynamics.", "PMID": 443611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6222", "title": "[The platelet model applied to the study of depressive illness (author's transl)].", "content": "The blood platelets, which serious arguments permit one to consider as valid models of serotoninergic neurones, were studied in various types of depression and during treatment with antidepressor drugs. The modifications of several platelet parameters were analysed in particular. The level of hydroxyndoles (OH-5-tryptamine or 5-HT for example) is generally lowered. The uptake of 5-HT is also reduced with normalisation by antidepressor treatments; the fixation of mepacrine, sign of the passive uptake of bioamines, is modified in the same direction, especially, in our experience, in maniacs, with a rise during treatment with phenothiazines. Finally, among the platelet enzymes, monoamine oxidase has a reduced activity in bipolar depressed patients, certain maniac depressive psychosis, and endogenic melancholias. Other platelet parameters, (liberation or release, nucleotide levels, 5-HT bonds at membrane level, etc.) may provide in the future, interesting information. In spite of sometimes contradictory data, the platelet model may be of interest, especially from pharmacological point of view.", "contents": "[The platelet model applied to the study of depressive illness (author's transl)]. The blood platelets, which serious arguments permit one to consider as valid models of serotoninergic neurones, were studied in various types of depression and during treatment with antidepressor drugs. The modifications of several platelet parameters were analysed in particular. The level of hydroxyndoles (OH-5-tryptamine or 5-HT for example) is generally lowered. The uptake of 5-HT is also reduced with normalisation by antidepressor treatments; the fixation of mepacrine, sign of the passive uptake of bioamines, is modified in the same direction, especially, in our experience, in maniacs, with a rise during treatment with phenothiazines. Finally, among the platelet enzymes, monoamine oxidase has a reduced activity in bipolar depressed patients, certain maniac depressive psychosis, and endogenic melancholias. Other platelet parameters, (liberation or release, nucleotide levels, 5-HT bonds at membrane level, etc.) may provide in the future, interesting information. In spite of sometimes contradictory data, the platelet model may be of interest, especially from pharmacological point of view.", "PMID": 443612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6223", "title": "[Biological approach to depressive conditions: study of sleep (author's transl)].", "content": "Sleep disturbances are common in depressive states, and have been recently precised. Apart from insomnia, alterations of the organization of sleep and especially a shortening of paradoxical sleep latency, as well as modifications of slow wave sleep, have been reported. The main effect of classical antidepressant drugs is a marked decrease or a complete abolition of paradoxical sleep. However, some antidepressant drugs do not affect paradoxical sleep, and other drugs, devoid of antidepressant properties, depress markedly the production of paradoxical sleep. The investigation of the modifications of sleep in depressive states, as well as of the effect of antidepressant drugs, may contribute to a better understanding of the physiopathology of these diseases.", "contents": "[Biological approach to depressive conditions: study of sleep (author's transl)]. Sleep disturbances are common in depressive states, and have been recently precised. Apart from insomnia, alterations of the organization of sleep and especially a shortening of paradoxical sleep latency, as well as modifications of slow wave sleep, have been reported. The main effect of classical antidepressant drugs is a marked decrease or a complete abolition of paradoxical sleep. However, some antidepressant drugs do not affect paradoxical sleep, and other drugs, devoid of antidepressant properties, depress markedly the production of paradoxical sleep. The investigation of the modifications of sleep in depressive states, as well as of the effect of antidepressant drugs, may contribute to a better understanding of the physiopathology of these diseases.", "PMID": 443613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6224", "title": "[Renal kallikrein: variations in relation to sodium intake and experimental renovascular hypertension (author's transl)].", "content": "When rats are submitted to diets with variable sodium, concentration, one may observe a significant increase in the excretion of urinary kallikrein and in the kallikrein activity of the renal tissue in animals in chronic sodium depletion. During experimental renovascular hypertension induced in the rat by stenosis of the renal artery, one may note a significant rise in the excretion of urinary kallikrein; no change in this excretion is observed when the stenosis is associated with nephrectomy on the opposite side. It is possible to consider interrelations between the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the kallikrein-kinin system.", "contents": "[Renal kallikrein: variations in relation to sodium intake and experimental renovascular hypertension (author's transl)]. When rats are submitted to diets with variable sodium, concentration, one may observe a significant increase in the excretion of urinary kallikrein and in the kallikrein activity of the renal tissue in animals in chronic sodium depletion. During experimental renovascular hypertension induced in the rat by stenosis of the renal artery, one may note a significant rise in the excretion of urinary kallikrein; no change in this excretion is observed when the stenosis is associated with nephrectomy on the opposite side. It is possible to consider interrelations between the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the kallikrein-kinin system.", "PMID": 443614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6225", "title": "The clinical usefulness of a screening test to detect static pulmonary blood using a multiple-breath analysis of diffusing capacity.", "content": "We devised a screening test to detect static blood in the lungs (e.g., with pulmonary vascular obstruction or pulmonary hemorrhage). A back pressure to CO will develop in static blood as the concentration of carboxyhemoglobin increases with time, and diffusing capacity (DLCO) will decrease. Instead of obtaining a single value for DLCO, we calculated DLCO over small decrements of the exhaled vital capacity during 4 sequential breaths using a modification of a method developed in our laboratory. In each of 5 healthy subjects there was no difference in DLCO during the 4 sequential breaths in the sitting, supine, or lateral decubitus positions. However, in a patient with a proved pulmonary embolus, DLCO decreased with sequential breaths, expecially at low lung volumes. In a patient with angiographic evidence of kinking of the left pulmonary artery when he assumed the right lateral decubitus position, DLCO showed a sequential decrease in this position only. Three patients with pulmonary hemorrhage also showed decreases in DLCO during sequential breaths during episodes of active bleeding.", "contents": "The clinical usefulness of a screening test to detect static pulmonary blood using a multiple-breath analysis of diffusing capacity. We devised a screening test to detect static blood in the lungs (e.g., with pulmonary vascular obstruction or pulmonary hemorrhage). A back pressure to CO will develop in static blood as the concentration of carboxyhemoglobin increases with time, and diffusing capacity (DLCO) will decrease. Instead of obtaining a single value for DLCO, we calculated DLCO over small decrements of the exhaled vital capacity during 4 sequential breaths using a modification of a method developed in our laboratory. In each of 5 healthy subjects there was no difference in DLCO during the 4 sequential breaths in the sitting, supine, or lateral decubitus positions. However, in a patient with a proved pulmonary embolus, DLCO decreased with sequential breaths, expecially at low lung volumes. In a patient with angiographic evidence of kinking of the left pulmonary artery when he assumed the right lateral decubitus position, DLCO showed a sequential decrease in this position only. Three patients with pulmonary hemorrhage also showed decreases in DLCO during sequential breaths during episodes of active bleeding.", "PMID": 443615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6226", "title": "Prognosis in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.", "content": "A long-term prognostic study of 129 patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (initial value for forced expiratory volume in 1 sec [FEV1] smaller than or equal to 1,000 ml) is reported. Data from the patients (72 per patient) were obtained in a clinically stable phase during the first hospital admission and subsequent regular outpatient visits; the data were processed using multiple regression and discriminant analysis. Five- and 10-year cumulative survival rates were 69 and 40 per cent, respectively. Prediction of survival rate was determined mainly by the rate of decrease in initial FEV1 per year and the degree of increase of initial FEV1 after administration of thiazinamium, a bronchodilator. Initial FEV1 values per se contributed to prediction only when they were less than 450 ml. Study of the data from the individual patients showed the presence of different types of decrease in FEV1: linear, exponential, combined linear-exponential, and phasic. FEV1 sometimes remained unchanged for several years or even showed an increase. No sudden decreases were observed. The better survival rate in patients with greater reversibility of airway obstruction after administration of thiazinamium has important bearing on treatment policy. The hypothesis is put forward that the better survival rate in the present study might be the result of continuing medical care. Comprehensive treatment, provided it includes a component directed at preventing and treating reversible airway obstruction, may be of major importance in determining survival in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The value of so-called dominant, survival-predicting factors is considered to be of secondary importance; their main function is to alert the physician to the fact that prognosis as concerns survival may be unfavorable and that preventive and therapeutic measures should be taken without delay.", "contents": "Prognosis in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A long-term prognostic study of 129 patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (initial value for forced expiratory volume in 1 sec [FEV1] smaller than or equal to 1,000 ml) is reported. Data from the patients (72 per patient) were obtained in a clinically stable phase during the first hospital admission and subsequent regular outpatient visits; the data were processed using multiple regression and discriminant analysis. Five- and 10-year cumulative survival rates were 69 and 40 per cent, respectively. Prediction of survival rate was determined mainly by the rate of decrease in initial FEV1 per year and the degree of increase of initial FEV1 after administration of thiazinamium, a bronchodilator. Initial FEV1 values per se contributed to prediction only when they were less than 450 ml. Study of the data from the individual patients showed the presence of different types of decrease in FEV1: linear, exponential, combined linear-exponential, and phasic. FEV1 sometimes remained unchanged for several years or even showed an increase. No sudden decreases were observed. The better survival rate in patients with greater reversibility of airway obstruction after administration of thiazinamium has important bearing on treatment policy. The hypothesis is put forward that the better survival rate in the present study might be the result of continuing medical care. Comprehensive treatment, provided it includes a component directed at preventing and treating reversible airway obstruction, may be of major importance in determining survival in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The value of so-called dominant, survival-predicting factors is considered to be of secondary importance; their main function is to alert the physician to the fact that prognosis as concerns survival may be unfavorable and that preventive and therapeutic measures should be taken without delay.", "PMID": 443616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6227", "title": "Effect of elastase and ventilation on elastic recoil of excised dog lungs.", "content": "The effect of porcine pancreatic elastase and mechanical ventilation on tissue elastic recoil was examined in excised dog lung lobes. Lobes incubated for one hour with an elastase-buffer mixture showed a significant (P less than 0.001) left shift of the liquid-filled pressure-volume curve at all pressures measured (0 to 12 cm H2O) when compared to lobes treated with buffer only. These results suggest that the contribution of elastin to the elastic properties of lung tissue is greatest at mid-lung volumes, but that it also contributes to delimiting maximal lung volume. Elastase and buff-treated lobes were inflated cyclically with humidified air to a pressure of 20 cm H2O 6 times per min during a 16-hour period. This mechanical ventilation caused no further decrease of tissue elastic recoil. Ventilation did cause an unexpected increase in the elastic recoil of liquid-filled lobes that was significant at pressures of 4 cm H2O (P less than 0.025) or more (P less than 0.001). Elastase and buffer-treated lobes showed an almost identical rightward shift of the pressure-volume curve after ventilation when compared to the respective nonventilated control lobes. This increased recoil cannot be attributed to altered surface tension.", "contents": "Effect of elastase and ventilation on elastic recoil of excised dog lungs. The effect of porcine pancreatic elastase and mechanical ventilation on tissue elastic recoil was examined in excised dog lung lobes. Lobes incubated for one hour with an elastase-buffer mixture showed a significant (P less than 0.001) left shift of the liquid-filled pressure-volume curve at all pressures measured (0 to 12 cm H2O) when compared to lobes treated with buffer only. These results suggest that the contribution of elastin to the elastic properties of lung tissue is greatest at mid-lung volumes, but that it also contributes to delimiting maximal lung volume. Elastase and buff-treated lobes were inflated cyclically with humidified air to a pressure of 20 cm H2O 6 times per min during a 16-hour period. This mechanical ventilation caused no further decrease of tissue elastic recoil. Ventilation did cause an unexpected increase in the elastic recoil of liquid-filled lobes that was significant at pressures of 4 cm H2O (P less than 0.025) or more (P less than 0.001). Elastase and buffer-treated lobes showed an almost identical rightward shift of the pressure-volume curve after ventilation when compared to the respective nonventilated control lobes. This increased recoil cannot be attributed to altered surface tension.", "PMID": 443617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6228", "title": "Effects of starvation and refeeding on lung mechanics and morphometry.", "content": "Rats receiving one fifth of their usual daily food consumption for 10 days showed a significant increase in static recoil pressure of the lung (Pst[L]) due to surface forces at low lung volumes during inflation; their tissue Pst (L) decreased significantly over the entire volume-pressure loop compared to that of control rats. After 1 week of refeeding, the surface Pst (L) returned almost completely to normal, but tissue Pst (L) remained abnormally low. In starved rats, air-space enlargement with minimal loss of interalveolar septa was associated with a significant increase in mean linear intercept and volume fraction of air spaces, and with a significant decrease in corrected internal surface area and surface fraction of air space. These alterations returned partially toward normal in the refed group. We conclude that starvation increases surface elastic forces, decreases tissue elasticity of lung, and leads to air-space enlargement; redeeding leads to restoration of surface forces without the return of tissue elasticity to normal and to less severe air-space enlargement.", "contents": "Effects of starvation and refeeding on lung mechanics and morphometry. Rats receiving one fifth of their usual daily food consumption for 10 days showed a significant increase in static recoil pressure of the lung (Pst[L]) due to surface forces at low lung volumes during inflation; their tissue Pst (L) decreased significantly over the entire volume-pressure loop compared to that of control rats. After 1 week of refeeding, the surface Pst (L) returned almost completely to normal, but tissue Pst (L) remained abnormally low. In starved rats, air-space enlargement with minimal loss of interalveolar septa was associated with a significant increase in mean linear intercept and volume fraction of air spaces, and with a significant decrease in corrected internal surface area and surface fraction of air space. These alterations returned partially toward normal in the refed group. We conclude that starvation increases surface elastic forces, decreases tissue elasticity of lung, and leads to air-space enlargement; redeeding leads to restoration of surface forces without the return of tissue elasticity to normal and to less severe air-space enlargement.", "PMID": 443621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6229", "title": "Disaturated phosphatidylcholine in rat lungs with altered numbers of type II alveolar epithelial cells.", "content": "Rats exposed to 85 per cent oxygen for 9 days demonstrated an increase in lung deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) specific acitvity for [3H]-thymidine and a significant increase in the volume of interstitial and alveolar epithelial cells. This included a 63 per cent increase in the number of Type II alveolar epithelial cells. Lamellar body volume per lung significantly increased in animals exposed to oxygen and was related to the increased number of Type II cells, because lamellar body volume expressed per Type II cell remained relatively constant and was comparable to control values. The concentration of whole lung disaturated phosphatidylcholine also increased significantly, but the concentration of unsaturated phosphatidylcholine did not increase. Concomitantly, there was a significant decrease in [32P]-orthophosphate and [14C]-palmitate disaturated phosphatidylcholine specific activity that was proportional to the increased number of alveolar epithelial Type II cells present.", "contents": "Disaturated phosphatidylcholine in rat lungs with altered numbers of type II alveolar epithelial cells. Rats exposed to 85 per cent oxygen for 9 days demonstrated an increase in lung deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) specific acitvity for [3H]-thymidine and a significant increase in the volume of interstitial and alveolar epithelial cells. This included a 63 per cent increase in the number of Type II alveolar epithelial cells. Lamellar body volume per lung significantly increased in animals exposed to oxygen and was related to the increased number of Type II cells, because lamellar body volume expressed per Type II cell remained relatively constant and was comparable to control values. The concentration of whole lung disaturated phosphatidylcholine also increased significantly, but the concentration of unsaturated phosphatidylcholine did not increase. Concomitantly, there was a significant decrease in [32P]-orthophosphate and [14C]-palmitate disaturated phosphatidylcholine specific activity that was proportional to the increased number of alveolar epithelial Type II cells present.", "PMID": 443622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6230", "title": "Nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity after exposure to Western Red Cedar.", "content": "A 55-year-old nonatopic man presented with a 2-year history of progressively severe conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and asthma related to exposure to freshly cut red cedar. Chest roentgenogram, lung volumes, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, and expiratory flow rates were normal. A histamine inhalation test demonstrated mild, nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity. After a 35-min cumulative exposure to Western Red Cedar sawdust in the laboratory, the patient developed a late asthmatic response. Bronchial reactivity to inhaled histamine increased significantly after exposure to red cedar in the laboraotry and again after natural exposure to red cedar at work. However, on both occasions forced expiraotry volume in one sec was decreased when compared to control values. Exposure to red cedar sawdust for 15 min was repeated in the laboratory, and histamine inhalation tests were performed the day before, for 4 consecutive days after, and 11 days after exposure. Before each test, one-sec forced expiratory volume, lung volumes, specific conductance, maximal expiratory flow rates at 25 and 50 per cent of vital capacity, closing capacity, and the slope of phase III from the single-breath O2 test were measured. Six hours after exposure to cedar, all measurements documented significant airway obstruction that persisted until the second day. Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine also increased on the first 2 days after exposure to cedar, but this increase persisted on the third and fourth day when all other pulmonary function tests had returned to control values. Eleven days later, the bronchial hyperreactivity to inhaled histamine had also returned to control values. In a sensitized subject, exposure to Western Red Cedar induced a transient increase in nonspecific bronchial reactivity that was present in the absence of airflow obstruction. Factors other than decreased airway caliber are probably important in this phenomenon.", "contents": "Nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity after exposure to Western Red Cedar. A 55-year-old nonatopic man presented with a 2-year history of progressively severe conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and asthma related to exposure to freshly cut red cedar. Chest roentgenogram, lung volumes, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, and expiratory flow rates were normal. A histamine inhalation test demonstrated mild, nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity. After a 35-min cumulative exposure to Western Red Cedar sawdust in the laboratory, the patient developed a late asthmatic response. Bronchial reactivity to inhaled histamine increased significantly after exposure to red cedar in the laboraotry and again after natural exposure to red cedar at work. However, on both occasions forced expiraotry volume in one sec was decreased when compared to control values. Exposure to red cedar sawdust for 15 min was repeated in the laboratory, and histamine inhalation tests were performed the day before, for 4 consecutive days after, and 11 days after exposure. Before each test, one-sec forced expiratory volume, lung volumes, specific conductance, maximal expiratory flow rates at 25 and 50 per cent of vital capacity, closing capacity, and the slope of phase III from the single-breath O2 test were measured. Six hours after exposure to cedar, all measurements documented significant airway obstruction that persisted until the second day. Bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine also increased on the first 2 days after exposure to cedar, but this increase persisted on the third and fourth day when all other pulmonary function tests had returned to control values. Eleven days later, the bronchial hyperreactivity to inhaled histamine had also returned to control values. In a sensitized subject, exposure to Western Red Cedar induced a transient increase in nonspecific bronchial reactivity that was present in the absence of airflow obstruction. Factors other than decreased airway caliber are probably important in this phenomenon.", "PMID": 443623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6231", "title": "Pulmonary injuries associated with acute sulfur dioxide inhalation.", "content": "This report describes an industrial accident in which 5 previously healthy persons were acutely exposed to very high concentrations of sulfur dioxide. Of these 5 subjects, the 2 with the highest exposure died immediately; histologic examination of the lungs revealed extensive sloughing of the mucosa of large and small airways along with hemorrhagic alveolar edema. The 3 survivors were evaluated with pulmonary function tests performed at regular intervals. One subject subsequently developed symptomatic severe airway obstruction unresponsive to bronchodilators; another subject developed asymptomatic mild obstructive and restrictive disease, and the third subject continued to be asymptomatic with normal pulmonary function tests. This report severe to document the histologic features of fatal exposure to sulfur dioxide and stresses the need to follow parameters of pulmonary function in the nonfatal cases.", "contents": "Pulmonary injuries associated with acute sulfur dioxide inhalation. This report describes an industrial accident in which 5 previously healthy persons were acutely exposed to very high concentrations of sulfur dioxide. Of these 5 subjects, the 2 with the highest exposure died immediately; histologic examination of the lungs revealed extensive sloughing of the mucosa of large and small airways along with hemorrhagic alveolar edema. The 3 survivors were evaluated with pulmonary function tests performed at regular intervals. One subject subsequently developed symptomatic severe airway obstruction unresponsive to bronchodilators; another subject developed asymptomatic mild obstructive and restrictive disease, and the third subject continued to be asymptomatic with normal pulmonary function tests. This report severe to document the histologic features of fatal exposure to sulfur dioxide and stresses the need to follow parameters of pulmonary function in the nonfatal cases.", "PMID": 443628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6232", "title": "Characterization of precipitin response to Micropolyspora faeni in farmer's lung disease by quantitative immunoelectrophoresis.", "content": "Sera from 12 patients with farmer's lung disease (FLD) drawn during an acute episode and displaying precipitins to Micropolyspora faeni were analyzed by crossed immunoelectrophoresis with an intermediate gel combined with a rabbit reference precipitate system. Forty-six precipitin arcs were identified in the reference system, and FLD sera reacted with 36 of these antigens. The FLD sera displayed significantly more precipitates and higher precipitin scores when compared with sera from 16 precipitin-positive subjectw who did not have FLD. However, there was overlap between the 2 groups, and neither measurement distinguished the 2 persons who became ill after challenge from one person who did not. Three disease specific antigens were identified that may have special relevance for pathogenesis of disease. Ten exposure-relevant antigens were also identified. We propose that these antigens be important components of a standardized M. faeni antigen preparation.", "contents": "Characterization of precipitin response to Micropolyspora faeni in farmer's lung disease by quantitative immunoelectrophoresis. Sera from 12 patients with farmer's lung disease (FLD) drawn during an acute episode and displaying precipitins to Micropolyspora faeni were analyzed by crossed immunoelectrophoresis with an intermediate gel combined with a rabbit reference precipitate system. Forty-six precipitin arcs were identified in the reference system, and FLD sera reacted with 36 of these antigens. The FLD sera displayed significantly more precipitates and higher precipitin scores when compared with sera from 16 precipitin-positive subjectw who did not have FLD. However, there was overlap between the 2 groups, and neither measurement distinguished the 2 persons who became ill after challenge from one person who did not. Three disease specific antigens were identified that may have special relevance for pathogenesis of disease. Ten exposure-relevant antigens were also identified. We propose that these antigens be important components of a standardized M. faeni antigen preparation.", "PMID": 443629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6233", "title": "Human response to controlled levels of inert dust.", "content": "We studied nasal mucous flow, airway resistance, and subjective response in 16 young healthy subjects during 5-hour exposures to 2, 10, and 25 mg of inert dust per m3 in an environmental chamber. The dust was a fully polymerized plastic dust containing carbon black. The number of these particles in room air, expressed as a per cent of the total number of particles was 36, 41, 14, 7, and 2, respectively, for the aerodynamic size ranges less than or equal to 1.8, 1.9 to 5.3, 5.4 to 8.9, 9.0 to 12.4, and greater than or equal to 12.5 micron. No significant changes in nasal mucociliary clearance rate or nasal resistance were observed. At all dust concentrations there was a decrease in 1-sec forced expiratory volume, but not in the forced vital capacity or the forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the forced vital capacity. The nasal penetration fraction of particles was approximately 55 per cent for the smallest particles and 20 per cent for the largest particles. Discomfort was proportional to the concentration of dust, but lagged almost 2 hours behind the changes in dust concentration. The discomfort was never excessive; the main complaints were dryness in the nose and pharynx.", "contents": "Human response to controlled levels of inert dust. We studied nasal mucous flow, airway resistance, and subjective response in 16 young healthy subjects during 5-hour exposures to 2, 10, and 25 mg of inert dust per m3 in an environmental chamber. The dust was a fully polymerized plastic dust containing carbon black. The number of these particles in room air, expressed as a per cent of the total number of particles was 36, 41, 14, 7, and 2, respectively, for the aerodynamic size ranges less than or equal to 1.8, 1.9 to 5.3, 5.4 to 8.9, 9.0 to 12.4, and greater than or equal to 12.5 micron. No significant changes in nasal mucociliary clearance rate or nasal resistance were observed. At all dust concentrations there was a decrease in 1-sec forced expiratory volume, but not in the forced vital capacity or the forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the forced vital capacity. The nasal penetration fraction of particles was approximately 55 per cent for the smallest particles and 20 per cent for the largest particles. Discomfort was proportional to the concentration of dust, but lagged almost 2 hours behind the changes in dust concentration. The discomfort was never excessive; the main complaints were dryness in the nose and pharynx.", "PMID": 443632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6234", "title": "Histoplasmin-CYL, a yeast phase reagent in skin test studies with humans.", "content": "A yeast phase histoplasmin, designated CYL, was studied in 156 humans living in areas of the United States endemic for histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or both fungal entities. Comparisons were made with Food and Drug Administration reference mycelial histoplasmin. Among persons without concurrent spherulin sensitivity, reactor rates and sizes were the same with both reagents. Some persons with spherulin sensitivity reacted only to the mycelial reagent. Histoplasmin-CYL skin tests did not induce significant changes in complement-fixing antibody in histoplasmin-reactive subjects.", "contents": "Histoplasmin-CYL, a yeast phase reagent in skin test studies with humans. A yeast phase histoplasmin, designated CYL, was studied in 156 humans living in areas of the United States endemic for histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or both fungal entities. Comparisons were made with Food and Drug Administration reference mycelial histoplasmin. Among persons without concurrent spherulin sensitivity, reactor rates and sizes were the same with both reagents. Some persons with spherulin sensitivity reacted only to the mycelial reagent. Histoplasmin-CYL skin tests did not induce significant changes in complement-fixing antibody in histoplasmin-reactive subjects.", "PMID": 443633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6235", "title": "Increased pulmonary vascular permeability follows intracranial hypertension in sheep.", "content": "After reviewing the characteristics of neurogenic pulmonary edema, Theodore and Robin suggested that it was probably due to rupture of lung vessels by marked but transitory pulmonary hypertension. In this study, we have determined the effects of increased intracranial pressure in a sheep model in which we could measure the flow rate and protein content of lung lymph, and thus detect changes in pulmonary vascular permeability. We found that increasing intracranial pressure to amounts near systemic arterial pressure produced a 3-fold increase in the flow of protein-rich lymph, which indicates increased lung vascular permeability. The high permeability often developed, and always persisted, without extraordinary increases in pulmonary vascular pressure. We conclude that increased lung vascular permeability may follow intracranial hypertension and that extreme pulmonary hypertension is not a prerequisite. Our data do not permit us to exclude barotrauma to exchanging vessels as a cause of capillary damage, but do suggest that other factors, perhaps local release of permeability mediators, may be involved.", "contents": "Increased pulmonary vascular permeability follows intracranial hypertension in sheep. After reviewing the characteristics of neurogenic pulmonary edema, Theodore and Robin suggested that it was probably due to rupture of lung vessels by marked but transitory pulmonary hypertension. In this study, we have determined the effects of increased intracranial pressure in a sheep model in which we could measure the flow rate and protein content of lung lymph, and thus detect changes in pulmonary vascular permeability. We found that increasing intracranial pressure to amounts near systemic arterial pressure produced a 3-fold increase in the flow of protein-rich lymph, which indicates increased lung vascular permeability. The high permeability often developed, and always persisted, without extraordinary increases in pulmonary vascular pressure. We conclude that increased lung vascular permeability may follow intracranial hypertension and that extreme pulmonary hypertension is not a prerequisite. Our data do not permit us to exclude barotrauma to exchanging vessels as a cause of capillary damage, but do suggest that other factors, perhaps local release of permeability mediators, may be involved.", "PMID": 443634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6236", "title": "Farmer's lung in early childhood.", "content": "A 5-year-old child with classic farmer's lung disease is reported. The disease started after a flulike episode and progressed during 3 months to severe respiratory failure. The clinical features were fatigability, weight loss, recurrent fever, dry cough, pulmonary rales, and clubbing. Serologic studies for precipitins to Micropolyspora faeni were positive. The chest roentgenogram showed a ground-glass appearance with air bronchogram. The open lung biopsy material was typical for alveolitis, with minute interstitial granulomas and obliteration of lung parenchyma. The child's condition improved rapidly with prednisone therapy and avoidance of the allergen.", "contents": "Farmer's lung in early childhood. A 5-year-old child with classic farmer's lung disease is reported. The disease started after a flulike episode and progressed during 3 months to severe respiratory failure. The clinical features were fatigability, weight loss, recurrent fever, dry cough, pulmonary rales, and clubbing. Serologic studies for precipitins to Micropolyspora faeni were positive. The chest roentgenogram showed a ground-glass appearance with air bronchogram. The open lung biopsy material was typical for alveolitis, with minute interstitial granulomas and obliteration of lung parenchyma. The child's condition improved rapidly with prednisone therapy and avoidance of the allergen.", "PMID": 443635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6237", "title": "[X-linked familial hypophosphatemic rickets report of six cases (author's transl)].", "content": "X-linked familial hypophosphatemic rickets (X.L.F.H.R.) is one of the D resistant rickets. The inheritance pattern is related to the X chromosome. Most constant feature is hypophosphatemia. Pathogenesis is still a subject of controversy. There are three main theories: a) An abnormal vitamin D metabolism. b) Secondary hyperparathyroidism developping as a result of the diminished calcium absorption by gut. c) A primary deffect of phosphate transport al various levels. Authors study and comment six cases of X.L.F.H.R., three of which belong to the same family. Clinical, radiological and higtological findings correspond to those of severe rickets. It is a chronic disease which affects children during growth period, giving rise to deforming bones invalidism. Treatment consists on continuous administration of oral phosphate and vitamin D.", "contents": "[X-linked familial hypophosphatemic rickets report of six cases (author's transl)]. X-linked familial hypophosphatemic rickets (X.L.F.H.R.) is one of the D resistant rickets. The inheritance pattern is related to the X chromosome. Most constant feature is hypophosphatemia. Pathogenesis is still a subject of controversy. There are three main theories: a) An abnormal vitamin D metabolism. b) Secondary hyperparathyroidism developping as a result of the diminished calcium absorption by gut. c) A primary deffect of phosphate transport al various levels. Authors study and comment six cases of X.L.F.H.R., three of which belong to the same family. Clinical, radiological and higtological findings correspond to those of severe rickets. It is a chronic disease which affects children during growth period, giving rise to deforming bones invalidism. Treatment consists on continuous administration of oral phosphate and vitamin D.", "PMID": 443639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6238", "title": "[Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage below the diaphragm. Report of three cases and semiologic considerations (author's transl)].", "content": "Clinical, hemodynamic and pathologic findings of three patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage to the portal vein system are presented. Some of the findings are emphasized because of its rarity in previous reports. These are: 1) Cyanosis was mild. 2) There was some obstruction of the foramen ovale, besides the obstruction at the portal system level. In two patients gastrointestinal bleeding and analitical evidence of renal failure, were found, both findings not previously reported to our knowledge.", "contents": "[Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage below the diaphragm. Report of three cases and semiologic considerations (author's transl)]. Clinical, hemodynamic and pathologic findings of three patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage to the portal vein system are presented. Some of the findings are emphasized because of its rarity in previous reports. These are: 1) Cyanosis was mild. 2) There was some obstruction of the foramen ovale, besides the obstruction at the portal system level. In two patients gastrointestinal bleeding and analitical evidence of renal failure, were found, both findings not previously reported to our knowledge.", "PMID": 443640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6239", "title": "[Hypervitaminosis D. Review of fifteen cases].", "content": "Fifteen cases of hypervitaminosis D in childhood are reviewed. In all of them, vitamin D was given following medical prescription. In four occasions, excessive dosage of vitamine D impaired the evolution of a previous nephropathy. The clinical, analytical, radiological and histological findings as well as the therapeutical aspects are commented. Hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, polyuria with hypostenuria, renal failure, bone lesions and nephrocalcinosis are the most prominent features of the picture. Occasionally, arterial hypertension and glycosuria were found. Prednisone, thyrocalcitonine and phosphates were used as therapeutical means. In spite of nephrocalcinosis and renal failure generally present at diagnosis, the clinical course was rather good.", "contents": "[Hypervitaminosis D. Review of fifteen cases]. Fifteen cases of hypervitaminosis D in childhood are reviewed. In all of them, vitamin D was given following medical prescription. In four occasions, excessive dosage of vitamine D impaired the evolution of a previous nephropathy. The clinical, analytical, radiological and histological findings as well as the therapeutical aspects are commented. Hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, polyuria with hypostenuria, renal failure, bone lesions and nephrocalcinosis are the most prominent features of the picture. Occasionally, arterial hypertension and glycosuria were found. Prednisone, thyrocalcitonine and phosphates were used as therapeutical means. In spite of nephrocalcinosis and renal failure generally present at diagnosis, the clinical course was rather good.", "PMID": 443641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6240", "title": "[Evaluation of mechanical ventilation in meconial aspiration syndrome].", "content": "Twenty seven newborn with serious meconial aspiration syndrome are studied. Two groups are stablish weather they require or not mechanical ventilation during evolution. When comparing various perinatal and clinical data, only the Silverman test showed statistically significant differences; pH and gases in blood during the first hours of life did not showed differences. Pneumothorax incidency in both groups was 33%. Twelve newborn required mechanical ventilation. The starting age was 24 hours of life range 3-54 hours. Most frequent indication was hipoxemia and apnea. Use of intermitent positive pressure improved PaCO2 with a light increase in PaO2 though it also increased alveolo-arterial oxygen gradient. Hipoxemia was the most relevant data in evolution of these patients. In seven cases continuous distending pressure was applied, with a light increase in PaO2 only in three patients. No patient suffered pneumothorax during mechanical ventilation. In patients with mechanical ventilation mortality was 25%. The possibility of an addition in certain cases of pulmonary hypertension with right-to-left shunting ductal and atrial is reported.", "contents": "[Evaluation of mechanical ventilation in meconial aspiration syndrome]. Twenty seven newborn with serious meconial aspiration syndrome are studied. Two groups are stablish weather they require or not mechanical ventilation during evolution. When comparing various perinatal and clinical data, only the Silverman test showed statistically significant differences; pH and gases in blood during the first hours of life did not showed differences. Pneumothorax incidency in both groups was 33%. Twelve newborn required mechanical ventilation. The starting age was 24 hours of life range 3-54 hours. Most frequent indication was hipoxemia and apnea. Use of intermitent positive pressure improved PaCO2 with a light increase in PaO2 though it also increased alveolo-arterial oxygen gradient. Hipoxemia was the most relevant data in evolution of these patients. In seven cases continuous distending pressure was applied, with a light increase in PaO2 only in three patients. No patient suffered pneumothorax during mechanical ventilation. In patients with mechanical ventilation mortality was 25%. The possibility of an addition in certain cases of pulmonary hypertension with right-to-left shunting ductal and atrial is reported.", "PMID": 443642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6241", "title": "[Ventricular fibrilation in children: electrical treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "Experience on the treatment of 85 ventricular fibrillation in 20 children by transthoracic electric shock with continuous electrical current is studied. Initially an energy level of 2 W./sec./Kg., was used and obtained 95% of effectivity. 50% of patients were dead because they did not recover effective cardiac rhythm, in spite of the effectivity of desfibrillation. Authors evaluate the importance of correction of metabolic disturbances and hipoxemia as predisposing factors of ventricular fibrillation and success of treatment. They think that energy level of 2 W./sec./Kg., is efficient. Effectivity of therapy depends, mainly, on rapidity and training of the pediatric intensive care team.", "contents": "[Ventricular fibrilation in children: electrical treatment (author's transl)]. Experience on the treatment of 85 ventricular fibrillation in 20 children by transthoracic electric shock with continuous electrical current is studied. Initially an energy level of 2 W./sec./Kg., was used and obtained 95% of effectivity. 50% of patients were dead because they did not recover effective cardiac rhythm, in spite of the effectivity of desfibrillation. Authors evaluate the importance of correction of metabolic disturbances and hipoxemia as predisposing factors of ventricular fibrillation and success of treatment. They think that energy level of 2 W./sec./Kg., is efficient. Effectivity of therapy depends, mainly, on rapidity and training of the pediatric intensive care team.", "PMID": 443643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6242", "title": "[Energy metabolism of the brain in children (author's transl)].", "content": "Oxygen consumption of the human brain is of the order of 3,5 ml./minute. Since the brain of a 70 Kg. man has a weight of 1,400 g., its total oxygen consumption is close to 50 ml./minute. Thus, whereas the brain weight accounts only for about 2 percent of the body weight its oxygen consumption accounts for some 20 percent of the resting energy metabolism (BMR) of the body. Measurements in animals of different size indicates that the oxygen consumption of the mammalian brain, per unit of weight, is practically independent of body size. Accordingly, the above figure can be used to make an estimate of the fraction of BMR accounted for by the energy metabolism of the brain, in different species. The proportion of brain weight to total body weight changes during the period of growth. The brain of a new-born baby represents some 10 to 11 percent of the total body weight. Therefore, in spite of the fact that the BMR/Kg. is higher in the infant, the fraction of BMR accounted for by the metabolism of the brain, is expected to be higher in the infant and child than in the adult. The calculations presented in this paper show that the energy metabolism of the brain may account for about 50 percent of the BMR in the new-born. As indicated by our calculations the proportion of BMR accounted for by the energy metabolism of the brain decreases with age, but it still accounts for about 30 percent of the BMR at age 12 years. Our calculations also show that much of the decrease of BMR/Kg. that takes place during infancy and childhood, is due to the decrease in the proportion of brain weight to total body weight. Undernourished children tend to have higher brain weight, relative to total body weight, than eutrophic children. It has been proposed, that this fact could explain the high BMR observed in malnourished children during nutritional rehabilitation.", "contents": "[Energy metabolism of the brain in children (author's transl)]. Oxygen consumption of the human brain is of the order of 3,5 ml./minute. Since the brain of a 70 Kg. man has a weight of 1,400 g., its total oxygen consumption is close to 50 ml./minute. Thus, whereas the brain weight accounts only for about 2 percent of the body weight its oxygen consumption accounts for some 20 percent of the resting energy metabolism (BMR) of the body. Measurements in animals of different size indicates that the oxygen consumption of the mammalian brain, per unit of weight, is practically independent of body size. Accordingly, the above figure can be used to make an estimate of the fraction of BMR accounted for by the energy metabolism of the brain, in different species. The proportion of brain weight to total body weight changes during the period of growth. The brain of a new-born baby represents some 10 to 11 percent of the total body weight. Therefore, in spite of the fact that the BMR/Kg. is higher in the infant, the fraction of BMR accounted for by the metabolism of the brain, is expected to be higher in the infant and child than in the adult. The calculations presented in this paper show that the energy metabolism of the brain may account for about 50 percent of the BMR in the new-born. As indicated by our calculations the proportion of BMR accounted for by the energy metabolism of the brain decreases with age, but it still accounts for about 30 percent of the BMR at age 12 years. Our calculations also show that much of the decrease of BMR/Kg. that takes place during infancy and childhood, is due to the decrease in the proportion of brain weight to total body weight. Undernourished children tend to have higher brain weight, relative to total body weight, than eutrophic children. It has been proposed, that this fact could explain the high BMR observed in malnourished children during nutritional rehabilitation.", "PMID": 443644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6243", "title": "[Cytological and bacteriological study of the vagina in newborn in a hospital environment (author's transl)].", "content": "An attempt has been made to ascertain the percentage of bacteriological transmission in the vaginal cavity, in a series of 98 studied cases between mother and daughter. All these findings have been correlated with the hormone quantities shown in smear tests. As a result of the work carried out it has been proved that transmission does not necessary take place, from the bacteriological point of view, in spite of the fact that E. coli is the bacteria most frequently found in cultures of smears from the vagina of both mothers and their newborn daughters. Similarly it was confirmed that differences between indices and percentages of cells from the vaginal epithelium of mothers and daughters is significant and are influenced by the presence of germs, among other factors.", "contents": "[Cytological and bacteriological study of the vagina in newborn in a hospital environment (author's transl)]. An attempt has been made to ascertain the percentage of bacteriological transmission in the vaginal cavity, in a series of 98 studied cases between mother and daughter. All these findings have been correlated with the hormone quantities shown in smear tests. As a result of the work carried out it has been proved that transmission does not necessary take place, from the bacteriological point of view, in spite of the fact that E. coli is the bacteria most frequently found in cultures of smears from the vagina of both mothers and their newborn daughters. Similarly it was confirmed that differences between indices and percentages of cells from the vaginal epithelium of mothers and daughters is significant and are influenced by the presence of germs, among other factors.", "PMID": 443645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6244", "title": "[Short rib-polydactyly (author's transl)].", "content": "A new case of short rib-polydoctyly, Saldino-Noonan type is described. The authors make a differential diagnosis between another forms of neonatal chondrodysplasias and point-out principal features of this entity.", "contents": "[Short rib-polydactyly (author's transl)]. A new case of short rib-polydoctyly, Saldino-Noonan type is described. The authors make a differential diagnosis between another forms of neonatal chondrodysplasias and point-out principal features of this entity.", "PMID": 443646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6245", "title": "Papillary muscle rupture in fatal acute myocardial infarction: a potentially treatable form of cardiogenic shock.", "content": "Although cardiogenic shock in acute myocardial infarction is usually associated with a critical loss of myocardium, this may not be the case in papillary muscle rupture. During the past 21 years, 13 patients came to autopsy (11 died in cardiogenic shock) with a papillary muscle rupture complicating myocardial infarction. Rupture occurred from 2 to 7 (mean, 4) days after the infarct, and survival after rupture was usually brief (median, 3 days). The infarct involved between 1% and 50% (mean, 19%) of the left ventricle, and in 10 it was less than 25%. In all instances myocardium around the mitral annulus was not infarcted. Because papillary muscle rupture occurred mostly with first infarcts (eight), involved relatively small areas of necrosis, and spared the myocardium surrounding the annulus, early mitral valve replacement should make this cause of fatal acute myocardial infarction one of the most treatable forms of cardiogenic shock.", "contents": "Papillary muscle rupture in fatal acute myocardial infarction: a potentially treatable form of cardiogenic shock. Although cardiogenic shock in acute myocardial infarction is usually associated with a critical loss of myocardium, this may not be the case in papillary muscle rupture. During the past 21 years, 13 patients came to autopsy (11 died in cardiogenic shock) with a papillary muscle rupture complicating myocardial infarction. Rupture occurred from 2 to 7 (mean, 4) days after the infarct, and survival after rupture was usually brief (median, 3 days). The infarct involved between 1% and 50% (mean, 19%) of the left ventricle, and in 10 it was less than 25%. In all instances myocardium around the mitral annulus was not infarcted. Because papillary muscle rupture occurred mostly with first infarcts (eight), involved relatively small areas of necrosis, and spared the myocardium surrounding the annulus, early mitral valve replacement should make this cause of fatal acute myocardial infarction one of the most treatable forms of cardiogenic shock.", "PMID": 443647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6246", "title": "Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia induction in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.", "content": "In 54 patients with pre-excitation, 30 (56%) had inducible A-V re-entrant paroxysmal tachycardia. Of these 30, 20 had spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia (four also had atrial fibrillation), four had spontaneous paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, five had a history of palpitation without arrhythmia, and one was asymptomatic. In 24 patients (44%), paroxysmal tachycardia was not inducible. Of these 24, none had documented paroxysmal tachycardia, four had atrial fibrillation, none had palpitation without arrhythmia, and 11 were asymptomatic. The incidence of documented paroxysmal tachycardia was higher in the patients with inducible tachycardia (P less than 0.001). Tachycardia induction was noted in 20 of 20 patients with spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia, eight of 12 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, five of 14 patients with palpitation and no arrhythmia, and one of 12 asymptomatic patients. The frequency of ability to induce paroxysmal tachycardia was significantly higher in both the patients with documented spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia and the patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation than in the asymptomatic group (P less than 0.01).", "contents": "Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia induction in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. In 54 patients with pre-excitation, 30 (56%) had inducible A-V re-entrant paroxysmal tachycardia. Of these 30, 20 had spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia (four also had atrial fibrillation), four had spontaneous paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, five had a history of palpitation without arrhythmia, and one was asymptomatic. In 24 patients (44%), paroxysmal tachycardia was not inducible. Of these 24, none had documented paroxysmal tachycardia, four had atrial fibrillation, none had palpitation without arrhythmia, and 11 were asymptomatic. The incidence of documented paroxysmal tachycardia was higher in the patients with inducible tachycardia (P less than 0.001). Tachycardia induction was noted in 20 of 20 patients with spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia, eight of 12 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, five of 14 patients with palpitation and no arrhythmia, and one of 12 asymptomatic patients. The frequency of ability to induce paroxysmal tachycardia was significantly higher in both the patients with documented spontaneous paroxysmal tachycardia and the patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation than in the asymptomatic group (P less than 0.01).", "PMID": 443648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6247", "title": "Urinary saturation measurements in calcium nephrolithiasis.", "content": "Urinary saturation with respect to calcium oxalate monohydrate was measured in 111 consecutive patients with calcium nephrolithiasis. Each patient also was evaluated by a detailed conventional metabolic protocol. Patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria produced abnormally oversaturated urine more frequently than normal subjects and normocalciuric patients, but normocalciuric patients had unexpectedly high levels of urine saturation. Measuring levels of calcium concentration, oxalate concentration, or the chemical concentration product of calcium and oxalate in urine did not predict oversaturation. During thiazide treatment, saturation level tended to fall if it was initially elevated, whether the patient was hypercalciuric or not. Patients whose urine was not remarkably oversaturated showed no tendency to elaborate even less saturated urine during thiazide treatment; instead, the average calcium oxalate saturation level remained constant. Direct urine saturation measurements can detect a small but significant number of normocalciuric patients who have marked oversaturation with respect to calcium oxalate and appear to benefit from treatment.", "contents": "Urinary saturation measurements in calcium nephrolithiasis. Urinary saturation with respect to calcium oxalate monohydrate was measured in 111 consecutive patients with calcium nephrolithiasis. Each patient also was evaluated by a detailed conventional metabolic protocol. Patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria produced abnormally oversaturated urine more frequently than normal subjects and normocalciuric patients, but normocalciuric patients had unexpectedly high levels of urine saturation. Measuring levels of calcium concentration, oxalate concentration, or the chemical concentration product of calcium and oxalate in urine did not predict oversaturation. During thiazide treatment, saturation level tended to fall if it was initially elevated, whether the patient was hypercalciuric or not. Patients whose urine was not remarkably oversaturated showed no tendency to elaborate even less saturated urine during thiazide treatment; instead, the average calcium oxalate saturation level remained constant. Direct urine saturation measurements can detect a small but significant number of normocalciuric patients who have marked oversaturation with respect to calcium oxalate and appear to benefit from treatment.", "PMID": 443649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6248", "title": "Accurate measurement of liver, kidney, and spleen volume and mass by computerized axial tomography.", "content": "Computerized axial tomography permits accurate cross-sectional radiographic visualization of visceral organs. Thus, \"radiographic area\" of an organ slice can be calculated and converted to actual area from a standard grid printed on the roentgenogram. Because the width between slices is known, the volume of an organ slice can be calculated as area times width. Mass of the organ slice is then the product of slice volume and organ density, and entire mass of the organ is the sum of the masses of all the organ slices. The validity of this method was examined in four water-filled balloons, in 12 excised human cadaver organs (six kidneys, three livers, and three spleens), and in two human cadavers while the organs (four kidneys, one liver, and two spleens) remained in situ. Radiographic volume and mass agreed with actual volume and mass within +/- 3% to 5%, thus confirming the accuracy of this method.", "contents": "Accurate measurement of liver, kidney, and spleen volume and mass by computerized axial tomography. Computerized axial tomography permits accurate cross-sectional radiographic visualization of visceral organs. Thus, \"radiographic area\" of an organ slice can be calculated and converted to actual area from a standard grid printed on the roentgenogram. Because the width between slices is known, the volume of an organ slice can be calculated as area times width. Mass of the organ slice is then the product of slice volume and organ density, and entire mass of the organ is the sum of the masses of all the organ slices. The validity of this method was examined in four water-filled balloons, in 12 excised human cadaver organs (six kidneys, three livers, and three spleens), and in two human cadavers while the organs (four kidneys, one liver, and two spleens) remained in situ. Radiographic volume and mass agreed with actual volume and mass within +/- 3% to 5%, thus confirming the accuracy of this method.", "PMID": 443650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6249", "title": "Pulmonary toxicity associated with bischloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU).", "content": "Ten patients developed pulmonary fibrosis after bischloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU) therapy for malignancy. This was lethal in seven patients, four of whom had no evidence of tumor at autopsy. Presenting symptoms were either the insidious onset of cough and dyspnea or the sudden onset of respiratory failure. Physical findings were unremarkable. Chest roentgenogram usually showed interstitial infiltrates. Pulmonary function studies showed resting hypoxia with diffusion and restrictive defects. This complication of therapy does not appear to be dose related and may be made more likely by the concomitant administration of cyclophosphamide. Prednisone therapy did not benefit most patients. The literature and the implications of the use of BCNU alone or in combination are reviewed.", "contents": "Pulmonary toxicity associated with bischloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU). Ten patients developed pulmonary fibrosis after bischloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU) therapy for malignancy. This was lethal in seven patients, four of whom had no evidence of tumor at autopsy. Presenting symptoms were either the insidious onset of cough and dyspnea or the sudden onset of respiratory failure. Physical findings were unremarkable. Chest roentgenogram usually showed interstitial infiltrates. Pulmonary function studies showed resting hypoxia with diffusion and restrictive defects. This complication of therapy does not appear to be dose related and may be made more likely by the concomitant administration of cyclophosphamide. Prednisone therapy did not benefit most patients. The literature and the implications of the use of BCNU alone or in combination are reviewed.", "PMID": 443651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6250", "title": "A case of maturity-onset diabetes mellitus resistant to insulin but responsive to tolbutamide.", "content": "A nonobese patient with maturity-onset diabetes mellitus was hospitalized for treatment of an ulcer on his right foot. During this episode, his diabetic control worsened, and he proved unresponsive to exogenous insulin. Unresponsiveness to insulin persisted after healing of the ulcer. Tolbutamide therapy was then begun and produced a marked reduction in blood sugar levels. Withdrawal of the drug was accompanied by a progressive rise in blood sugar level. Intravenous infusion of regular pork insulin at rates of 45 U/h and single-component pork insulin at rates of 120 U/h had minimal effect on the blood sugar level. High levels of antibody to beef insulin were measured, with lower levels of pork insulin antibodies. C-peptide values were in a normal range before tolbutamide treatment and increased after use of the drug.", "contents": "A case of maturity-onset diabetes mellitus resistant to insulin but responsive to tolbutamide. A nonobese patient with maturity-onset diabetes mellitus was hospitalized for treatment of an ulcer on his right foot. During this episode, his diabetic control worsened, and he proved unresponsive to exogenous insulin. Unresponsiveness to insulin persisted after healing of the ulcer. Tolbutamide therapy was then begun and produced a marked reduction in blood sugar levels. Withdrawal of the drug was accompanied by a progressive rise in blood sugar level. Intravenous infusion of regular pork insulin at rates of 45 U/h and single-component pork insulin at rates of 120 U/h had minimal effect on the blood sugar level. High levels of antibody to beef insulin were measured, with lower levels of pork insulin antibodies. C-peptide values were in a normal range before tolbutamide treatment and increased after use of the drug.", "PMID": 443652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6251", "title": "Factitious fever and self-induced infection: a report of 32 cases and review of the literature.", "content": "We review in detail the syndromes of factitious fever and self-induced infection, with discussion of 32 cases studied at the National Institutes of Health and the extensive English language literature. In addition, we describe the nature of the underlying psychiatric illnesses and present guidelines for the diagnosis and management of these patients.", "contents": "Factitious fever and self-induced infection: a report of 32 cases and review of the literature. We review in detail the syndromes of factitious fever and self-induced infection, with discussion of 32 cases studied at the National Institutes of Health and the extensive English language literature. In addition, we describe the nature of the underlying psychiatric illnesses and present guidelines for the diagnosis and management of these patients.", "PMID": 443658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6252", "title": "Use of laboratory tests in a teaching hospital: long-term trends: reductions in use and relative cost.", "content": "We have assessed long-term trends in the use of laboratory tests among patients hospitalized on the medical service of a large teaching hospital. A significant decline in numbers of chemistry tests and no growth in numbers of microbiology or hematology tests or roentgenograms were noted between 1970 and 1977. Per-patient increases in laboratory costs and charges were considerably less than increases in total hospitalization costs and charges. These findings contrast to an average increase of 13.8% per year in numbers of laboratory tests for hospital laboratories in this country between 1970 and 1975. Factors responsible for the observed stability in numbers of laboratory tests per patient per hospitalization included, but were not limited to, increased reliance on test batteries as opposed to individual tests; changing patterns of care leading to decreased use of nonautomated tests; and the impact of administrative and educational strategies directed toward optimum use of the laboratory.", "contents": "Use of laboratory tests in a teaching hospital: long-term trends: reductions in use and relative cost. We have assessed long-term trends in the use of laboratory tests among patients hospitalized on the medical service of a large teaching hospital. A significant decline in numbers of chemistry tests and no growth in numbers of microbiology or hematology tests or roentgenograms were noted between 1970 and 1977. Per-patient increases in laboratory costs and charges were considerably less than increases in total hospitalization costs and charges. These findings contrast to an average increase of 13.8% per year in numbers of laboratory tests for hospital laboratories in this country between 1970 and 1975. Factors responsible for the observed stability in numbers of laboratory tests per patient per hospitalization included, but were not limited to, increased reliance on test batteries as opposed to individual tests; changing patterns of care leading to decreased use of nonautomated tests; and the impact of administrative and educational strategies directed toward optimum use of the laboratory.", "PMID": 443659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6253", "title": "Drug evaluation after marketing.", "content": "After marketing, drugs should be evaluated for safety and for efficacy. Present national systems are inadequate for both tasks. Safety can be evaluated by means of nonexperimental research, whereas evaluation of efficacy in a variety of settings representing normal medical practice generally requires experiments, randomized and blinded. Research into safety requires the maintenance of routine, yet flexible, multipurpose data systems, different for established and newly marketed drugs. Ad hoc studies on safety and on efficacy can be mounted more swiftly and economically through the maintenance of \"standby\" capabilities, in addition to maximal use of resources outside the actual national system.", "contents": "Drug evaluation after marketing. After marketing, drugs should be evaluated for safety and for efficacy. Present national systems are inadequate for both tasks. Safety can be evaluated by means of nonexperimental research, whereas evaluation of efficacy in a variety of settings representing normal medical practice generally requires experiments, randomized and blinded. Research into safety requires the maintenance of routine, yet flexible, multipurpose data systems, different for established and newly marketed drugs. Ad hoc studies on safety and on efficacy can be mounted more swiftly and economically through the maintenance of \"standby\" capabilities, in addition to maximal use of resources outside the actual national system.", "PMID": 443660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6254", "title": "Epidemic measles in young adults. Clinical, epidemiologic, and serologic studies.", "content": "An outbreak of measles at the University of California at Los Angeles provided the opportunity to study clinical, epidemiologic, and serologic characteristics of the disease in young adults in the present vaccine era. Of the 34 cases studied, 18 occurred in persons who thought they were immune. Fifteen of 19 seronegative students vaccinated during the epidemic responded with a secondary (IgG) antibody response. Antibody prevalence studies indicated that 91% of the student population had measles antibody at the onset of the outbreak, and history relating to measles correlated poorly with antibody prevalence. Of 212 adults vaccinated, 58% complained of one or more symptoms. Seventeen percent were confined to bed, and in three women vaccine-associated illness was notably severe. That measles will continue to be a problem in adults with our present national approach to immunization is predicted.", "contents": "Epidemic measles in young adults. Clinical, epidemiologic, and serologic studies. An outbreak of measles at the University of California at Los Angeles provided the opportunity to study clinical, epidemiologic, and serologic characteristics of the disease in young adults in the present vaccine era. Of the 34 cases studied, 18 occurred in persons who thought they were immune. Fifteen of 19 seronegative students vaccinated during the epidemic responded with a secondary (IgG) antibody response. Antibody prevalence studies indicated that 91% of the student population had measles antibody at the onset of the outbreak, and history relating to measles correlated poorly with antibody prevalence. Of 212 adults vaccinated, 58% complained of one or more symptoms. Seventeen percent were confined to bed, and in three women vaccine-associated illness was notably severe. That measles will continue to be a problem in adults with our present national approach to immunization is predicted.", "PMID": 443682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6255", "title": "Atypical measles in adolescents and young adults.", "content": "Seven patients, aged 12 to 19 years, had atypical measles. Prodromal symptoms of fever, malaise, myalgia, headache, nausea, and vomiting were commonly followed by coryza, sore throat, conjunctivitis, photophobia, nonproductive cough, and pleuritic pain. The characteristic rash was erythematous, maculopapular, and progressed frequently to vesicular, petechial, or purpuric lesions. It initially involved palms and soles with subsequent spread to proximal extremities and the trunk, sparing the face. Six of six chest roentgenograms showed infiltrates. Findings not previously described in atypical measles included liver enzyme elevations, thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, possible transmission among three siblings, and suspected cardiac involvement. Measles complement fixation titers compatible with recent infection were seen in all patients. All patients had previously received killed measles vaccine. A substantial number of persons who are older adolescents or young adults may be at risk of developing atypical measles.", "contents": "Atypical measles in adolescents and young adults. Seven patients, aged 12 to 19 years, had atypical measles. Prodromal symptoms of fever, malaise, myalgia, headache, nausea, and vomiting were commonly followed by coryza, sore throat, conjunctivitis, photophobia, nonproductive cough, and pleuritic pain. The characteristic rash was erythematous, maculopapular, and progressed frequently to vesicular, petechial, or purpuric lesions. It initially involved palms and soles with subsequent spread to proximal extremities and the trunk, sparing the face. Six of six chest roentgenograms showed infiltrates. Findings not previously described in atypical measles included liver enzyme elevations, thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, possible transmission among three siblings, and suspected cardiac involvement. Measles complement fixation titers compatible with recent infection were seen in all patients. All patients had previously received killed measles vaccine. A substantial number of persons who are older adolescents or young adults may be at risk of developing atypical measles.", "PMID": 443683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6256", "title": "Atypical measles in adolescents: evaluation of clinical and pulmonary function.", "content": "During a community outbreak of measles, 10 patients aged 11 through 19 were hospitalized with prominent pulmonary infiltrates and clinical manifestations of high fever and rash. Diagnoses of atypical measles were confirmed by hemagglutination-inhibition and complement-fixation antibody studies. Patients were followed with pulmonary function studies for 12 weeks. The most common admitting diagnoses were varicella, scarlet fever, meningococcemia, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, due largely to the protean cutaneous manifestations. Roentgenographic studies showed diffuse, segmental, and nodular chest lesions. Hypoxemia (mean arterial Po2, 58 mm Hg) and markedly reduced lung volumes were noted. Gradual resolution of physiologic abnormalities was noted during 12 weeks, but two children had persistent nodular densities seen on chest roentgenograms. Atypical measles in the older child and young adult has a wide spectrum of pulmonary manifestations ranging from acute respiratory failure to isolated nodular lesions. Proper recognition of this syndrome will prevent unnecessary invasive diagnostic procedures.", "contents": "Atypical measles in adolescents: evaluation of clinical and pulmonary function. During a community outbreak of measles, 10 patients aged 11 through 19 were hospitalized with prominent pulmonary infiltrates and clinical manifestations of high fever and rash. Diagnoses of atypical measles were confirmed by hemagglutination-inhibition and complement-fixation antibody studies. Patients were followed with pulmonary function studies for 12 weeks. The most common admitting diagnoses were varicella, scarlet fever, meningococcemia, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, due largely to the protean cutaneous manifestations. Roentgenographic studies showed diffuse, segmental, and nodular chest lesions. Hypoxemia (mean arterial Po2, 58 mm Hg) and markedly reduced lung volumes were noted. Gradual resolution of physiologic abnormalities was noted during 12 weeks, but two children had persistent nodular densities seen on chest roentgenograms. Atypical measles in the older child and young adult has a wide spectrum of pulmonary manifestations ranging from acute respiratory failure to isolated nodular lesions. Proper recognition of this syndrome will prevent unnecessary invasive diagnostic procedures.", "PMID": 443684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6257", "title": "Misleadingly low free thyroxine index and usefulness of reverse triiodothyronine measurement in nonthyroidal illnesses.", "content": "Nonthyroidal illness is frequently associated with subnormal serum thyroxine (T4) and free T4 index. To unravel the resultant diagnostic problems, we have studied several variables of thyroid function in the sera of 47 patients hospitalized with nonthyroidal illnesses and seven hypothyroid patients encountered during the same period. Of the 47 euthyroid sick patients, 18 had low T4. Among these 18, free T4 index was normal in only five, whereas free T4 concentration measured by equilibrium dialysis was normal or high in 15 and 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine (reverse T3) normal or high in all 18. Reverse T3, free T4 concentration, and free T4 index were subnormal in all seven hypothyroid patients. Thus, measurement of free T4 index may be misleading in evaluation of thyroid function in patients with nonthyroidal illnesses, whereas measurement of serum concentration of reverse T3 and free T4 is quite discriminating.", "contents": "Misleadingly low free thyroxine index and usefulness of reverse triiodothyronine measurement in nonthyroidal illnesses. Nonthyroidal illness is frequently associated with subnormal serum thyroxine (T4) and free T4 index. To unravel the resultant diagnostic problems, we have studied several variables of thyroid function in the sera of 47 patients hospitalized with nonthyroidal illnesses and seven hypothyroid patients encountered during the same period. Of the 47 euthyroid sick patients, 18 had low T4. Among these 18, free T4 index was normal in only five, whereas free T4 concentration measured by equilibrium dialysis was normal or high in 15 and 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine (reverse T3) normal or high in all 18. Reverse T3, free T4 concentration, and free T4 index were subnormal in all seven hypothyroid patients. Thus, measurement of free T4 index may be misleading in evaluation of thyroid function in patients with nonthyroidal illnesses, whereas measurement of serum concentration of reverse T3 and free T4 is quite discriminating.", "PMID": 443685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6258", "title": "Heat intolerance in former heatstroke patients.", "content": "Nine young men who had suffered from heatstroke on previous occasions (heat-intolerant subjects) and 10 young volunteers (control subjects) were examined to determine their physiologic responses to exercise in temperate (23 degrees C) and hot environments (40 degrees C). The tests included an orthostatic test, work loads of 40 W and 80 W, and oxygen consumption (Vo2) determination. Although all the control subjects completed the exercise under severe heat load (3 h), none of the heat-intolerant subjects succeeded in completing this test due to high rectal temperatures and high heart rates. Sweat rates were similar in both groups, with Vo2 slightly higher in the control subjects. Orthostatic responses were similar in each group. The results suggest that inefficient thermoregulation, possibly due to decreased heat conductance from core to periphery, contributes to heat intolerance in former heatstroke patients.", "contents": "Heat intolerance in former heatstroke patients. Nine young men who had suffered from heatstroke on previous occasions (heat-intolerant subjects) and 10 young volunteers (control subjects) were examined to determine their physiologic responses to exercise in temperate (23 degrees C) and hot environments (40 degrees C). The tests included an orthostatic test, work loads of 40 W and 80 W, and oxygen consumption (Vo2) determination. Although all the control subjects completed the exercise under severe heat load (3 h), none of the heat-intolerant subjects succeeded in completing this test due to high rectal temperatures and high heart rates. Sweat rates were similar in both groups, with Vo2 slightly higher in the control subjects. Orthostatic responses were similar in each group. The results suggest that inefficient thermoregulation, possibly due to decreased heat conductance from core to periphery, contributes to heat intolerance in former heatstroke patients.", "PMID": 443686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6259", "title": "Bromocriptine and endocrine disorders.", "content": "Bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, has been used to treat many endocrine disorders. In hyperprolactinemia associated with galactorrhea, amenorrhea, oligospermia, and impotence, bromocriptine reduces prolactin levels to normal and allows for satisfactory return of sexual and reproductive function in 90% of patients. In acromegaly, bromocriptine brings about subjective improvement in 75% of patients with reduction in growth-hormone levels to normal in 22% of patients. Bromocriptine has been used in premenstrual tension, functional infertility, Nelson's syndrome, and Cushing's disease with variable benefit. In low doses, side-effects are minimal. In higher doses, digital vasospasm and gastrointestinal bleeding have occurred. Although bromocriptine has been used in a wide variety of endocrine disorders, it appears to be most useful in treatment of male and female infertility associated with hyperprolactinemia.", "contents": "Bromocriptine and endocrine disorders. Bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, has been used to treat many endocrine disorders. In hyperprolactinemia associated with galactorrhea, amenorrhea, oligospermia, and impotence, bromocriptine reduces prolactin levels to normal and allows for satisfactory return of sexual and reproductive function in 90% of patients. In acromegaly, bromocriptine brings about subjective improvement in 75% of patients with reduction in growth-hormone levels to normal in 22% of patients. Bromocriptine has been used in premenstrual tension, functional infertility, Nelson's syndrome, and Cushing's disease with variable benefit. In low doses, side-effects are minimal. In higher doses, digital vasospasm and gastrointestinal bleeding have occurred. Although bromocriptine has been used in a wide variety of endocrine disorders, it appears to be most useful in treatment of male and female infertility associated with hyperprolactinemia.", "PMID": 443691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6260", "title": "Sociologic influences on decision-making by clinicians.", "content": "Recent articles on clinical decision-making have proposed sophisticated quantitative methods for improving the physician's clinical judgment. Actual clinical decisions, however, are influenced by interactions between the clinician, the patient, and the sociocultural milieu as well as by biomedical considerations. This paper explores these sociologic influences on the decision-making process. Four types of sociologic factors influence the clinician's judgment: the characteristics of the patient; the characteristics of the clinician; the clinician's interaction with his profession and the health care system; and the clinician's relationship with the patient. To illustrate sociologic influences on clinical decision-making, this paper presents observations from the literature of sociology, clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine. Further studies are needed to provide additional empirical information.", "contents": "Sociologic influences on decision-making by clinicians. Recent articles on clinical decision-making have proposed sophisticated quantitative methods for improving the physician's clinical judgment. Actual clinical decisions, however, are influenced by interactions between the clinician, the patient, and the sociocultural milieu as well as by biomedical considerations. This paper explores these sociologic influences on the decision-making process. Four types of sociologic factors influence the clinician's judgment: the characteristics of the patient; the characteristics of the clinician; the clinician's interaction with his profession and the health care system; and the clinician's relationship with the patient. To illustrate sociologic influences on clinical decision-making, this paper presents observations from the literature of sociology, clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine. Further studies are needed to provide additional empirical information.", "PMID": 443692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6261", "title": "A national study of internal medicine and its specialties: I. An overview of the practice of internal medicine.", "content": "A nationwide study of 24 medical and surgical specialties has been conducted by the University of Southern California School of Medicine, Division of Research in Medical Education. This article is the first in a series reporting findings for general internal medicine and 10 subspecialties of internal medicine. Populations for these 11 specialties are defined and enumerated, and the specialties are compared in terms of demographic and geographic distribution. Practice comparisons are presented based on characteristics such as workload, allocation of professional time, location of encounters with patients, distribution of primary problem diagnoses, and projections of annual patient encounters. Forthcoming specialty-specific articles will present highly detailed information for general internal medicine and for the subspecialties of cardiology, gastroenterology, pulmonary disease, allergy, hematology, endocrinology, nephrology, medical oncology, rheumatology, and infectious diseases.", "contents": "A national study of internal medicine and its specialties: I. An overview of the practice of internal medicine. A nationwide study of 24 medical and surgical specialties has been conducted by the University of Southern California School of Medicine, Division of Research in Medical Education. This article is the first in a series reporting findings for general internal medicine and 10 subspecialties of internal medicine. Populations for these 11 specialties are defined and enumerated, and the specialties are compared in terms of demographic and geographic distribution. Practice comparisons are presented based on characteristics such as workload, allocation of professional time, location of encounters with patients, distribution of primary problem diagnoses, and projections of annual patient encounters. Forthcoming specialty-specific articles will present highly detailed information for general internal medicine and for the subspecialties of cardiology, gastroenterology, pulmonary disease, allergy, hematology, endocrinology, nephrology, medical oncology, rheumatology, and infectious diseases.", "PMID": 443693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6262", "title": "Minute perilymph fistulas: vertigo and Hennebert's sign without hearing loss.", "content": "The clinical entity characterized by episodic vertigo and a positive Hennebert's sign in patients without hearing loss is described. The history of perilymph fistulas is reviewed. Minute perilymph fistulas of the oval window were documented surgically in five consecutive patients with this syndrome. All experienced relief of their symptoms after surgical correction.", "contents": "Minute perilymph fistulas: vertigo and Hennebert's sign without hearing loss. The clinical entity characterized by episodic vertigo and a positive Hennebert's sign in patients without hearing loss is described. The history of perilymph fistulas is reviewed. Minute perilymph fistulas of the oval window were documented surgically in five consecutive patients with this syndrome. All experienced relief of their symptoms after surgical correction.", "PMID": 443709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6263", "title": "Completion laryngectomy.", "content": "From 1965 to 1975, 452 total laryngectomies were performed at the Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri. Forty-two or 9.4% were completion laryngectomies. Completion laryngectomy is defined as the removal of the remaining larynx following an antecedent partial laryngectomy. These 42 cases are retrospectively analyzed in regards to original conservation surgery, clinical presentation, histopathology and salvage rate. The most common indications for completion laryngectomy were : 1) local recurrence, 2) local recurrence with associated severe upper respiratory obstruction, and 3) fistula control. The overall salvage rate following completion laryngectomy was 55% (23 patients). The highest rate was in patients with previous hemilaryngectomy (69%), followed by subtotal supraglottic laryngectomy (44%), and partial laryngopharyngectomy (14%). There is a high incidence of stomal occurrences (24% or 10 patients) associated with completion laryngectomy, particularly in patients with anticedent hemilaryngectomy. Most indications for completion laryngectomy present early, however, all patients must be carefully followed. Both the patient and the otolaryngologist must be ever vigilant following conservation surgery.", "contents": "Completion laryngectomy. From 1965 to 1975, 452 total laryngectomies were performed at the Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri. Forty-two or 9.4% were completion laryngectomies. Completion laryngectomy is defined as the removal of the remaining larynx following an antecedent partial laryngectomy. These 42 cases are retrospectively analyzed in regards to original conservation surgery, clinical presentation, histopathology and salvage rate. The most common indications for completion laryngectomy were : 1) local recurrence, 2) local recurrence with associated severe upper respiratory obstruction, and 3) fistula control. The overall salvage rate following completion laryngectomy was 55% (23 patients). The highest rate was in patients with previous hemilaryngectomy (69%), followed by subtotal supraglottic laryngectomy (44%), and partial laryngopharyngectomy (14%). There is a high incidence of stomal occurrences (24% or 10 patients) associated with completion laryngectomy, particularly in patients with anticedent hemilaryngectomy. Most indications for completion laryngectomy present early, however, all patients must be carefully followed. Both the patient and the otolaryngologist must be ever vigilant following conservation surgery.", "PMID": 443711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6264", "title": "Treatment of syphilitic hearing loss. Combined penicillin and steroid therapy in 29 patients.", "content": "Twenty-nine patients with presumed syphilitic hearing loss, either congenital or acquired, were treated on one or more occasions according to a three-month protocol using penicillin and prednisone. Changes in hearing were carefully followed during treatment and for at least one year thereafter. Of 58 ears studied in 29 patients, 19 demonstrated significant partial improvement in hearing during treatment. However, 11 ears returned to pretreatment hearing levels after therapy, and only 8 ears, or 15%, maintained the hearing gains one year later. Enhanced discrimination occurred more commonly than gains in pure tone threshold. Long-term alternate day prednisone therapy was required to sustain hearing improvement in a small number of patients.", "contents": "Treatment of syphilitic hearing loss. Combined penicillin and steroid therapy in 29 patients. Twenty-nine patients with presumed syphilitic hearing loss, either congenital or acquired, were treated on one or more occasions according to a three-month protocol using penicillin and prednisone. Changes in hearing were carefully followed during treatment and for at least one year thereafter. Of 58 ears studied in 29 patients, 19 demonstrated significant partial improvement in hearing during treatment. However, 11 ears returned to pretreatment hearing levels after therapy, and only 8 ears, or 15%, maintained the hearing gains one year later. Enhanced discrimination occurred more commonly than gains in pure tone threshold. Long-term alternate day prednisone therapy was required to sustain hearing improvement in a small number of patients.", "PMID": 443710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6265", "title": "Intralabyrinthine schwannoma.", "content": "Two cases of unsuspected intralabyrinthine schwannoma are reported and the literature is reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 56 years, with the most common symptoms being hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus. All patients demonstrated a profound sensorineural hearing loss with low discrimination scores, and recruitment was elicited in two patients. A radiographic evaluation was negative in all but one case. Five of the six patients had a preoperative diagnosis of M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease. Transcanal labyrinthectomy was employed to remove tumor in all patients. This review suggests that a patient, presenting with symptoms of atypical M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease and negative radiographic evaluation, should alert the surgeon to the possibility of an intralabyrinthine schwannoma.", "contents": "Intralabyrinthine schwannoma. Two cases of unsuspected intralabyrinthine schwannoma are reported and the literature is reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 56 years, with the most common symptoms being hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus. All patients demonstrated a profound sensorineural hearing loss with low discrimination scores, and recruitment was elicited in two patients. A radiographic evaluation was negative in all but one case. Five of the six patients had a preoperative diagnosis of M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease. Transcanal labyrinthectomy was employed to remove tumor in all patients. This review suggests that a patient, presenting with symptoms of atypical M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease and negative radiographic evaluation, should alert the surgeon to the possibility of an intralabyrinthine schwannoma.", "PMID": 443712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6266", "title": "Malignant transformation of tracheobronchial juvenile papillomatosis without prior radiotherapy.", "content": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea and bronchi developed in a 19-year-old male with recurrent laryngeal papillomata since age four, who had received no prior radiotherapy, but who was tracheotomized for obstructive laryngeal papillomata. Treatment with intravenous cytosine arabinoside, \"moderate dose\" methotrexate, topical 5-fluorouracil and irradiation failed to alter tumor growth, and the patient succumbed to recurrent arterial tumor emboli.", "contents": "Malignant transformation of tracheobronchial juvenile papillomatosis without prior radiotherapy. Squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea and bronchi developed in a 19-year-old male with recurrent laryngeal papillomata since age four, who had received no prior radiotherapy, but who was tracheotomized for obstructive laryngeal papillomata. Treatment with intravenous cytosine arabinoside, \"moderate dose\" methotrexate, topical 5-fluorouracil and irradiation failed to alter tumor growth, and the patient succumbed to recurrent arterial tumor emboli.", "PMID": 443713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6267", "title": "Bilateral abductor vocal cord paralysis in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.", "content": "This report descirbes the unusual association of bilateral abductor vocal cord paralysis (BAbVCP) and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease in a boy and his natural mother who have been followed for eight years. The boy initially presented with life-threatening respiratory distress at age ten years; BAbVCP was documented by direct laryngoscopy. Mirror laryngoscopy confirmed BAbVCP in the mother. Neurological diagnosis was made by history, physical examination, electromyography, and nerve conduction velocity studies. The BAbVCP may represent an additional genetic marker within the spectrum of heredodegenerative disorders. Of clinical importance is examination of voice and respiratory symptomatology of patients with heredodegenerative diseases and neurological work-up of patients with familial vocal cord paralysis. Further genetic and clinical studies of X cranial nerve involvement in heredodegenerative disorders are warranted.", "contents": "Bilateral abductor vocal cord paralysis in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. This report descirbes the unusual association of bilateral abductor vocal cord paralysis (BAbVCP) and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease in a boy and his natural mother who have been followed for eight years. The boy initially presented with life-threatening respiratory distress at age ten years; BAbVCP was documented by direct laryngoscopy. Mirror laryngoscopy confirmed BAbVCP in the mother. Neurological diagnosis was made by history, physical examination, electromyography, and nerve conduction velocity studies. The BAbVCP may represent an additional genetic marker within the spectrum of heredodegenerative disorders. Of clinical importance is examination of voice and respiratory symptomatology of patients with heredodegenerative diseases and neurological work-up of patients with familial vocal cord paralysis. Further genetic and clinical studies of X cranial nerve involvement in heredodegenerative disorders are warranted.", "PMID": 443714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6268", "title": "Aneurysmal bone cyst of maxilla.", "content": "A case of aneurysmal bone cyst of the maxilla is reported. The clinical and radiological feautres, histopathology and treatment, are described in detail. Although the pathogenesis is still obscure, surgical excision is considered to be the treatment of choice.", "contents": "Aneurysmal bone cyst of maxilla. A case of aneurysmal bone cyst of the maxilla is reported. The clinical and radiological feautres, histopathology and treatment, are described in detail. Although the pathogenesis is still obscure, surgical excision is considered to be the treatment of choice.", "PMID": 443715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6269", "title": "Variation of endocochlear PO2 and cochlear potentials by breathing carbon dioxide.", "content": "The effect of carbon dioxide on oxygen dioxide tension in the endolymph was determined by the micropolarographic technique. Different concentrations (5% and 10% CO2) and different exposure times (3, 5, and 20 minutes) were investigated. The highest levels of PO2 in the endolymph (101.7, 93.9 and 69.5 mm Hg) were accomplished by respiration of 10% CO2, 90% O2, for 20, 5 and 3 minutes consecutively. The lowest PO2 increase, 50.7 mm Hg was observed after breathing 5% CO2, 90% O2 for 20 minutes. Extreme hypercapnia caused an increase of endocochlear potentials (EP) in all groups. In the second group EP increased from +79.3 to +84.9 and in all groups they had returned to the pretreatment level after CO2 discontinuation. These results support the theory that carbonic anhydrase participates in the generation of EP. At the same time that EP increased, cochlear microphonics declined and opposite after the breathing mixture was discontinued. The results permit the conclusion that high levels of PO2 in endolymph is achievable even with short periods of respiration with high CO2 mixture, and suggest the role of carbonic anhydrase during EP generation.", "contents": "Variation of endocochlear PO2 and cochlear potentials by breathing carbon dioxide. The effect of carbon dioxide on oxygen dioxide tension in the endolymph was determined by the micropolarographic technique. Different concentrations (5% and 10% CO2) and different exposure times (3, 5, and 20 minutes) were investigated. The highest levels of PO2 in the endolymph (101.7, 93.9 and 69.5 mm Hg) were accomplished by respiration of 10% CO2, 90% O2, for 20, 5 and 3 minutes consecutively. The lowest PO2 increase, 50.7 mm Hg was observed after breathing 5% CO2, 90% O2 for 20 minutes. Extreme hypercapnia caused an increase of endocochlear potentials (EP) in all groups. In the second group EP increased from +79.3 to +84.9 and in all groups they had returned to the pretreatment level after CO2 discontinuation. These results support the theory that carbonic anhydrase participates in the generation of EP. At the same time that EP increased, cochlear microphonics declined and opposite after the breathing mixture was discontinued. The results permit the conclusion that high levels of PO2 in endolymph is achievable even with short periods of respiration with high CO2 mixture, and suggest the role of carbonic anhydrase during EP generation.", "PMID": 443716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6270", "title": "Effect of ammonia on nasal resistance in atopic and nonatopic subjects.", "content": "Nasal airway resistance (NAR) was assessed from the slope of pressure-glow curves obtained during normal nasal breathing. Volunteers were classified as atopic or nonatopic according to strict critera. 100 ppm NH3 was introduced into each nostril for periods ranging from 5 to 30 seconds with frequent NAR monitoring. A progressive increase in NAR responses was obtained with incremental NH3 exposure, but no significant difference was noted between the mean response of atopic and nonatopic subjects. Control exposures to compressed air under the same pressure generally produced only a small change in NAR, while aerosolized buffered saline increased NAR more than compressed air. The nasal response to NH3 was effectively inhibited by intranasal atropine administration but not by chlorpheniramine. The nasal response to NH3 was effectively inhibited by intranasal atropine administration but not by chlorpheniramine. The described procedure provides a safe and simple method for studying semiquantitatively the short-term effects of inhaled irritants on the nose.", "contents": "Effect of ammonia on nasal resistance in atopic and nonatopic subjects. Nasal airway resistance (NAR) was assessed from the slope of pressure-glow curves obtained during normal nasal breathing. Volunteers were classified as atopic or nonatopic according to strict critera. 100 ppm NH3 was introduced into each nostril for periods ranging from 5 to 30 seconds with frequent NAR monitoring. A progressive increase in NAR responses was obtained with incremental NH3 exposure, but no significant difference was noted between the mean response of atopic and nonatopic subjects. Control exposures to compressed air under the same pressure generally produced only a small change in NAR, while aerosolized buffered saline increased NAR more than compressed air. The nasal response to NH3 was effectively inhibited by intranasal atropine administration but not by chlorpheniramine. The nasal response to NH3 was effectively inhibited by intranasal atropine administration but not by chlorpheniramine. The described procedure provides a safe and simple method for studying semiquantitatively the short-term effects of inhaled irritants on the nose.", "PMID": 443717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6271", "title": "Hypernephroma metastatic to the palatine tonsils.", "content": "Review of the literature discloses 76 cases of carcinoma metastatic to the palatine tonsil. Of these cases reported or mentioned, 51 were detailed sufficiently or occurred frequently enough to allow analysis. We add two new cases of hypernephroma, and also study the courses of patients with primaries of the stomach, breast, lung and melanoma and seminoma. Bilateral tonsilar involvement is found to be very common in melanoma and not uncommon in seminoma and adenocarcinomas of the stomach and breast. It is uncommon for bronchogenic carcinoma and hypernephroma to metastasize to both palatine tonsils. When laterality is present the left tonsil is more commonly involved than the right, except by melanoma. Regarding neoplastic involvement of the primary organ, the left side gives rise to malignancies more often than the right side. Only seminoma has a high incidence of other metastases. The mean time interval between development of the primary and the tonsillar secondary is one year or less in seminomas, bronchogenic carcinomas and adenocarcinomas of the stomach, but 2 1/2 years or more for adenocarcinomas of the breast and kidney and melanomas. The mean time of survival after appearance of the tonsillar metastasis is nine months or less, regardless of the cell type of the primary malignancy.", "contents": "Hypernephroma metastatic to the palatine tonsils. Review of the literature discloses 76 cases of carcinoma metastatic to the palatine tonsil. Of these cases reported or mentioned, 51 were detailed sufficiently or occurred frequently enough to allow analysis. We add two new cases of hypernephroma, and also study the courses of patients with primaries of the stomach, breast, lung and melanoma and seminoma. Bilateral tonsilar involvement is found to be very common in melanoma and not uncommon in seminoma and adenocarcinomas of the stomach and breast. It is uncommon for bronchogenic carcinoma and hypernephroma to metastasize to both palatine tonsils. When laterality is present the left tonsil is more commonly involved than the right, except by melanoma. Regarding neoplastic involvement of the primary organ, the left side gives rise to malignancies more often than the right side. Only seminoma has a high incidence of other metastases. The mean time interval between development of the primary and the tonsillar secondary is one year or less in seminomas, bronchogenic carcinomas and adenocarcinomas of the stomach, but 2 1/2 years or more for adenocarcinomas of the breast and kidney and melanomas. The mean time of survival after appearance of the tonsillar metastasis is nine months or less, regardless of the cell type of the primary malignancy.", "PMID": 443718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6272", "title": "Response of nasal airway resistance to hypercapnia and hypoxia in man.", "content": "The response of nasal airway resistance (Rn) to various degrees of hypoxia and hypercapnia was measured in six subjects using active posterior mask rhinomanometry. All resistances were computed during expiration at the flow rate of 0.5 liter/sec. Hypercapnia, induced by breathing gas mixtures of various contents of carbon dioxide, significantly decreased Rn (P less than 0.05, Wilcoxon signed rank test). The reduction in Rn was proportional to the inspired partial pressure of carbon dioxide over a range of 0 to 50 torr. Breathing gas mixtures of high and low contents of oxygen produced no significant change in Rn (P less than 0.05, Wilcoxon signed rank test). These results indicate that the nasal airway is actively involved in the respiratory response to hypercapnia but not to moderate hypoxia.", "contents": "Response of nasal airway resistance to hypercapnia and hypoxia in man. The response of nasal airway resistance (Rn) to various degrees of hypoxia and hypercapnia was measured in six subjects using active posterior mask rhinomanometry. All resistances were computed during expiration at the flow rate of 0.5 liter/sec. Hypercapnia, induced by breathing gas mixtures of various contents of carbon dioxide, significantly decreased Rn (P less than 0.05, Wilcoxon signed rank test). The reduction in Rn was proportional to the inspired partial pressure of carbon dioxide over a range of 0 to 50 torr. Breathing gas mixtures of high and low contents of oxygen produced no significant change in Rn (P less than 0.05, Wilcoxon signed rank test). These results indicate that the nasal airway is actively involved in the respiratory response to hypercapnia but not to moderate hypoxia.", "PMID": 443719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6273", "title": "Role of the vidian nerve in nasal allergy.", "content": "Clinical studies were performed to evaluate the role of the vidian nerve at onset of symptoms in nasal allergy. A localized area of one side of the nasal cavity was stimulated with known allergen and 0.1% histamine chloride in patients with perennial nasal allergy. The effect of unilateral vidian neurectomy and sensory anesthesia on glandular and vascular response was evaluated. With localized nasal stimulation, hyperrhinorrhea was seen in both sides of the nasal cavity before vidian neurectomy. Unilateral vidian neurectomy blocked hyperrhinorrhea only in that nasal cavity in which the nerve was sectioned. However, hyperrhinorrhea from the contralateral side, with an intact vidian nerve, was blocked with sensory anesthesia of the opposite side of the nasal cavity where the stimulation was applied. Nasal hypersecretion in allergic rhinitis was assumed to be mostly due to stimulation of sensory receptors by a chemical mediator and reflexive stimulation of the nasal glands. Vidian neurectomy, however, did not have any apparent influence on the swelling of the nasal mucosa caused by localized stimulation of allergen and histamine.", "contents": "Role of the vidian nerve in nasal allergy. Clinical studies were performed to evaluate the role of the vidian nerve at onset of symptoms in nasal allergy. A localized area of one side of the nasal cavity was stimulated with known allergen and 0.1% histamine chloride in patients with perennial nasal allergy. The effect of unilateral vidian neurectomy and sensory anesthesia on glandular and vascular response was evaluated. With localized nasal stimulation, hyperrhinorrhea was seen in both sides of the nasal cavity before vidian neurectomy. Unilateral vidian neurectomy blocked hyperrhinorrhea only in that nasal cavity in which the nerve was sectioned. However, hyperrhinorrhea from the contralateral side, with an intact vidian nerve, was blocked with sensory anesthesia of the opposite side of the nasal cavity where the stimulation was applied. Nasal hypersecretion in allergic rhinitis was assumed to be mostly due to stimulation of sensory receptors by a chemical mediator and reflexive stimulation of the nasal glands. Vidian neurectomy, however, did not have any apparent influence on the swelling of the nasal mucosa caused by localized stimulation of allergen and histamine.", "PMID": 443720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6274", "title": "Acute laryngeal abscesses.", "content": "The clinical features of laryngeal abscess have changed markedly since the introduction of antibiotics and are rarely seen by clinicians today. Three cases of acute laryngeal abscess associated with malignancy, airway instrumentation and a preexisting laryngocele respectively are presented. Management of these cases included immediate tracheostomy, intravenous antibiotics and surgical drainage. Current etiological factors and modes of presentation are discussed. Laryngeal abscess remains a serious and potentially lethal problem requiring emergent treatment. Serious sequelae may result from this disease.", "contents": "Acute laryngeal abscesses. The clinical features of laryngeal abscess have changed markedly since the introduction of antibiotics and are rarely seen by clinicians today. Three cases of acute laryngeal abscess associated with malignancy, airway instrumentation and a preexisting laryngocele respectively are presented. Management of these cases included immediate tracheostomy, intravenous antibiotics and surgical drainage. Current etiological factors and modes of presentation are discussed. Laryngeal abscess remains a serious and potentially lethal problem requiring emergent treatment. Serious sequelae may result from this disease.", "PMID": 443721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6275", "title": "Congenital anosmia: detection thresholds for seven odorant classes in hypogonadal and eugonadal patients.", "content": "Detection thresholds for a representative from each of seven odorant classes (putrid, pepperminty, ethereal, camphoraceous, pungent, musky, floral) were determined by double-blind smell testing of seven normal males, six normal females, 6 patients with uncomplicated congenital anosmia and 13 patients with the syndrome of congenital anosmia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (the Kallmann syndrome, olfactogenital dysplasia). The median detection thresholds did not differ significantly between hypogonadal and eugonadal anosmics for any of the odorants, suggesting that the endocrine deficit does not result from inadequate rhinencephalic input to brain centers controlling gonadotropin release. Phenylethylmethylethylcarbinol (PEMEC), a stable chemical of the floral class, was detecred at very low concentrations (10(-6) to 10(-8) M in water) by all normals tested. Since no patient with congenital anosmia was able to distinguish even undiluted PEMEC from water, we suggest that this compound is the material of choice for convenient, rapid and objective testing of the sense of smell (cranial nerve I).", "contents": "Congenital anosmia: detection thresholds for seven odorant classes in hypogonadal and eugonadal patients. Detection thresholds for a representative from each of seven odorant classes (putrid, pepperminty, ethereal, camphoraceous, pungent, musky, floral) were determined by double-blind smell testing of seven normal males, six normal females, 6 patients with uncomplicated congenital anosmia and 13 patients with the syndrome of congenital anosmia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (the Kallmann syndrome, olfactogenital dysplasia). The median detection thresholds did not differ significantly between hypogonadal and eugonadal anosmics for any of the odorants, suggesting that the endocrine deficit does not result from inadequate rhinencephalic input to brain centers controlling gonadotropin release. Phenylethylmethylethylcarbinol (PEMEC), a stable chemical of the floral class, was detecred at very low concentrations (10(-6) to 10(-8) M in water) by all normals tested. Since no patient with congenital anosmia was able to distinguish even undiluted PEMEC from water, we suggest that this compound is the material of choice for convenient, rapid and objective testing of the sense of smell (cranial nerve I).", "PMID": 443722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6276", "title": "Tinnitus as a presenting symptom in pernicious anemia.", "content": "An unusual case presenting to the otolaryngologist as pulsatile tinnitus is discussed. Fowler points out that the circulatory response to anemia is increased cardiac output. There is associated tachycardia and increased arterial pulse pressure. Because of this increased flow state and turbulence, systolic bruits, venous hums, and \"capillary\" pulsations are found. This increased flow state is perceived in the ear as a transmitted pulsatile tinnitus. The successful treatment of this patient's pernicious anemia corrected the hyperdynamic circulatory state, and resulted in disappearance of her tinnitus.", "contents": "Tinnitus as a presenting symptom in pernicious anemia. An unusual case presenting to the otolaryngologist as pulsatile tinnitus is discussed. Fowler points out that the circulatory response to anemia is increased cardiac output. There is associated tachycardia and increased arterial pulse pressure. Because of this increased flow state and turbulence, systolic bruits, venous hums, and \"capillary\" pulsations are found. This increased flow state is perceived in the ear as a transmitted pulsatile tinnitus. The successful treatment of this patient's pernicious anemia corrected the hyperdynamic circulatory state, and resulted in disappearance of her tinnitus.", "PMID": 443725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6277", "title": "[Increase in ovarian K+ levels in impuberal rats treated with gonadotropins: characteristics of the phenomenon].", "content": "In Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) primed rat ovaries, the K+ level and 42K uptake were increased (+14% and +47% respectively). This phenomena was observed only for target organs (ovaries and testis) and was detectable 30 minutes after PMSG injection. The K+ level augmentation was still demonstrated when the macromolecules biosynthesis were blocked by actinomycin. In hypophysectomised rat, LH or FSH had the same effect as PMSG on K+ level.", "contents": "[Increase in ovarian K+ levels in impuberal rats treated with gonadotropins: characteristics of the phenomenon]. In Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) primed rat ovaries, the K+ level and 42K uptake were increased (+14% and +47% respectively). This phenomena was observed only for target organs (ovaries and testis) and was detectable 30 minutes after PMSG injection. The K+ level augmentation was still demonstrated when the macromolecules biosynthesis were blocked by actinomycin. In hypophysectomised rat, LH or FSH had the same effect as PMSG on K+ level.", "PMID": 443727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6278", "title": "[Activity of the octanol dehydrogenase, of the alcool dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase on the farnesol metabolism. Photoperiodic and neurhormonale regulation, controlling the metabolism of the juvenile hormone, in Pieris brassicae (author's transl)].", "content": "The antagonistic photoperiodic behaviour of the farnesol dehydrogenases indicates that the photonic control mechanism of the brain acts on the farnesol derivates. This cerebral control is double. The first system, linked at the allatotrope function is proportionnal at the photoperiod and acts on the octanol dehydrogenase 0,32. The second system controle the deshydrogenases ADH bands 0,50--0,58, is linked at the darkness. It is linked also at the neurocerebral activity then it stops its activity at the 4th day of the 5th stage. This last seems to be the determinating control for the establishment of the diapause since in short photoperiod, when the inhibition by this system ends, the alcool dehydrogenases 0,50-0,58 series is suractivated in rate with the lasting of the scotophase. In darkness, the 1st system functionnes cyclically and has a maximum synchron with the single maximum of the 2nd system. Inversally, in continuous light, the 2nd system is synchronisated with the 1st which has a prolongated action, maybe linked with a prolongated activity of the neurosecretory cells of the pars intercerebralis and corpora allata.", "contents": "[Activity of the octanol dehydrogenase, of the alcool dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase on the farnesol metabolism. Photoperiodic and neurhormonale regulation, controlling the metabolism of the juvenile hormone, in Pieris brassicae (author's transl)]. The antagonistic photoperiodic behaviour of the farnesol dehydrogenases indicates that the photonic control mechanism of the brain acts on the farnesol derivates. This cerebral control is double. The first system, linked at the allatotrope function is proportionnal at the photoperiod and acts on the octanol dehydrogenase 0,32. The second system controle the deshydrogenases ADH bands 0,50--0,58, is linked at the darkness. It is linked also at the neurocerebral activity then it stops its activity at the 4th day of the 5th stage. This last seems to be the determinating control for the establishment of the diapause since in short photoperiod, when the inhibition by this system ends, the alcool dehydrogenases 0,50-0,58 series is suractivated in rate with the lasting of the scotophase. In darkness, the 1st system functionnes cyclically and has a maximum synchron with the single maximum of the 2nd system. Inversally, in continuous light, the 2nd system is synchronisated with the 1st which has a prolongated action, maybe linked with a prolongated activity of the neurosecretory cells of the pars intercerebralis and corpora allata.", "PMID": 443728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6279", "title": "[Gonadotropic function in female Cushing's syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "Gonadotropic function has been studied without selection in 38 female patients with Cushing's syndrome followed during four years. The level of gonadotropins FSH and LH was low in all etiologies of the syndrome. LH-RH stimulation is normal in adrenal hyperplasia and adenoma, and very low in carcinoma. These abnormalities are cured after reduction of hypercorticism. The share of either cortisol or androgens is discussed. A predominant hypercortisolism blunting action on gonadotropic function is possible, cortisol being the common factor of Cushing's syndrome.", "contents": "[Gonadotropic function in female Cushing's syndrome (author's transl)]. Gonadotropic function has been studied without selection in 38 female patients with Cushing's syndrome followed during four years. The level of gonadotropins FSH and LH was low in all etiologies of the syndrome. LH-RH stimulation is normal in adrenal hyperplasia and adenoma, and very low in carcinoma. These abnormalities are cured after reduction of hypercorticism. The share of either cortisol or androgens is discussed. A predominant hypercortisolism blunting action on gonadotropic function is possible, cortisol being the common factor of Cushing's syndrome.", "PMID": 443729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6280", "title": "[Role of progesterone in the insulin-resistance during pregnancy in the rat (author's transl)].", "content": "Progesterone inhibits insulin action in vivo and in vitro. In vivo the hypoglycemic action of an intravenous injection of insulin is counteracted by a simultaneous injection of progesterone. In vitro, insulin effect on glucose uptake and on 14CO2 production from 14C-glucose is inhibited by progesterone in female rat diaphragme muscle, adipose tissue and isolated adipocytes. Thus, progesterone plays an important role in carbohydrate metabolism during pregnancy in the rat.", "contents": "[Role of progesterone in the insulin-resistance during pregnancy in the rat (author's transl)]. Progesterone inhibits insulin action in vivo and in vitro. In vivo the hypoglycemic action of an intravenous injection of insulin is counteracted by a simultaneous injection of progesterone. In vitro, insulin effect on glucose uptake and on 14CO2 production from 14C-glucose is inhibited by progesterone in female rat diaphragme muscle, adipose tissue and isolated adipocytes. Thus, progesterone plays an important role in carbohydrate metabolism during pregnancy in the rat.", "PMID": 443730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6281", "title": "[Estrogen dependance of the progesterone \"receptor\" in human tissues (author's transl)].", "content": "The concentration of specific progesterone receptor (RP) has been measured in the endometrium of 31 normal menstruating women during the two phases of their menstrual cycle, and compared with the plasma oestradiol-17 beta (E2) concentrations. There was no relationship between RP and plasma E2 when the two phases of the cycle were considered, however a correlation was observed when the follicular phase was only considered. The relationship between oestrogen and RP was then more directly studied in a breast cancer cell line in tissue culture (MCF-7). RP induction by E2 as well as oestriol was demonstrated, but oestrone was ineffective.", "contents": "[Estrogen dependance of the progesterone \"receptor\" in human tissues (author's transl)]. The concentration of specific progesterone receptor (RP) has been measured in the endometrium of 31 normal menstruating women during the two phases of their menstrual cycle, and compared with the plasma oestradiol-17 beta (E2) concentrations. There was no relationship between RP and plasma E2 when the two phases of the cycle were considered, however a correlation was observed when the follicular phase was only considered. The relationship between oestrogen and RP was then more directly studied in a breast cancer cell line in tissue culture (MCF-7). RP induction by E2 as well as oestriol was demonstrated, but oestrone was ineffective.", "PMID": 443732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6282", "title": "[Study of plasma androstenedione and testosterone levels in hypercorticism syndromes].", "content": "Plasma T and A were studied in 10 patients with hypercorticism. In the female patients, plasma A and T were elevated in 4 cases of Cushing's disease, slightly decreased in 2 cases of adrenal adenoma and greatly increased in I case of adrenal carcinoma. In 3 male patients, A plasma levels followed ACTH levels, but T was subnormal, irrespective of the cause of hypercorticism. Furthermore, in 8 normal men, the decrease of plasma T, observed after ACTH administration, was not directly related to ACTH, but rather to cortisol, as it was not observed after metyrapone induced ACTH increase. As no change in LH secretion was shown and as dexamethasone reduced the testosterone response to HCG, it seems likely that glucocorticoids act directly on testosterone biosynthesis.", "contents": "[Study of plasma androstenedione and testosterone levels in hypercorticism syndromes]. Plasma T and A were studied in 10 patients with hypercorticism. In the female patients, plasma A and T were elevated in 4 cases of Cushing's disease, slightly decreased in 2 cases of adrenal adenoma and greatly increased in I case of adrenal carcinoma. In 3 male patients, A plasma levels followed ACTH levels, but T was subnormal, irrespective of the cause of hypercorticism. Furthermore, in 8 normal men, the decrease of plasma T, observed after ACTH administration, was not directly related to ACTH, but rather to cortisol, as it was not observed after metyrapone induced ACTH increase. As no change in LH secretion was shown and as dexamethasone reduced the testosterone response to HCG, it seems likely that glucocorticoids act directly on testosterone biosynthesis.", "PMID": 443735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6283", "title": "[Comparative effects of tamoxifen and estorgens on the induction of progesterone receptors and uterine growth in rats].", "content": "Effects of prolonged administration (7 days) of Tamoxifen (Tx: 100 micrograms/day), oestradiol-17 beta (E2; 1 microgram/day) and oestriol (E3; silastic capsules) on the uterine weight, protein, DNA and progesterone receptor (RP) content of prepubertal rats have been studied. It has been observed when compared with E2 that Tx induces a dissociated action after two days of administration; the RP content is still increasing when the other parameters are at a constant level. E3 has a similar action to E2.", "contents": "[Comparative effects of tamoxifen and estorgens on the induction of progesterone receptors and uterine growth in rats]. Effects of prolonged administration (7 days) of Tamoxifen (Tx: 100 micrograms/day), oestradiol-17 beta (E2; 1 microgram/day) and oestriol (E3; silastic capsules) on the uterine weight, protein, DNA and progesterone receptor (RP) content of prepubertal rats have been studied. It has been observed when compared with E2 that Tx induces a dissociated action after two days of administration; the RP content is still increasing when the other parameters are at a constant level. E3 has a similar action to E2.", "PMID": 443733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6284", "title": "[Calcitonin-cells in the thyroid of the human fetus. Immunocytochemical study (author's transl)].", "content": "Calcitonin (CT)-cells were detected, by using an anti-human calcitonin serum (hCT), in the thyroid of the normal and anencephalic human fetuses. The first CT-cells were observed at 14 weeks of gestation. The CT-cells were at first isolated afterwards were appeared in parafollicular localization. The CT-cells were only observed in the middle of the upper or medium third or the lateral lobes, along the central axis of the lobes. No CT-cells were detected in the isthmic region or in the inferior third of the lobes. CT-cells were also seen in the thyroid of the anencephalic fetuses. The specificity of the immunocytological reaction was ascertained after incubation of anti-hCT serum with homologous or heterologous antigens: after incubation of the anti-hCT serum with hCT, the immunocytological reaction was disappeared, but no modification of the reaction was noted after incubation with somatostatin, T4 or parathormone. The CT appeared precociously in the thyroid of the human fetus and their localization was the same that in the older subjects.", "contents": "[Calcitonin-cells in the thyroid of the human fetus. Immunocytochemical study (author's transl)]. Calcitonin (CT)-cells were detected, by using an anti-human calcitonin serum (hCT), in the thyroid of the normal and anencephalic human fetuses. The first CT-cells were observed at 14 weeks of gestation. The CT-cells were at first isolated afterwards were appeared in parafollicular localization. The CT-cells were only observed in the middle of the upper or medium third or the lateral lobes, along the central axis of the lobes. No CT-cells were detected in the isthmic region or in the inferior third of the lobes. CT-cells were also seen in the thyroid of the anencephalic fetuses. The specificity of the immunocytological reaction was ascertained after incubation of anti-hCT serum with homologous or heterologous antigens: after incubation of the anti-hCT serum with hCT, the immunocytological reaction was disappeared, but no modification of the reaction was noted after incubation with somatostatin, T4 or parathormone. The CT appeared precociously in the thyroid of the human fetus and their localization was the same that in the older subjects.", "PMID": 443736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6285", "title": "[Determination of plasma and urinary estrogens by use of a new enzyme method].", "content": "The transhydrogenase function of the oestradiol dehydrogenase of human placenta is used in such a condition as the transhydrogenase activity is directly related to oestrone and oestradiol concentration. The method is highly specific. Reacting oestrone with hydrazin before the assay allows specific determination of oestradiol. The limit of sensitivity is 10 picograms (precision 10%) in plasma and 1 microgram in urine (precision 10%). The determination is done directly on hydrolyzed urine without extraction and is rapid and highly specific. The method seems to be competitive for oestrogen radioimmuno assay in plasma and offers great advantages towards conventional chemical methods in urine. Repetitive profiles of urinary oestrogen excretion can be obtained easely.", "contents": "[Determination of plasma and urinary estrogens by use of a new enzyme method]. The transhydrogenase function of the oestradiol dehydrogenase of human placenta is used in such a condition as the transhydrogenase activity is directly related to oestrone and oestradiol concentration. The method is highly specific. Reacting oestrone with hydrazin before the assay allows specific determination of oestradiol. The limit of sensitivity is 10 picograms (precision 10%) in plasma and 1 microgram in urine (precision 10%). The determination is done directly on hydrolyzed urine without extraction and is rapid and highly specific. The method seems to be competitive for oestrogen radioimmuno assay in plasma and offers great advantages towards conventional chemical methods in urine. Repetitive profiles of urinary oestrogen excretion can be obtained easely.", "PMID": 443734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6286", "title": "[Quantitative aspects of iodine metabolism in one case of congenital iodotyrosine deiodinase defect (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 27 years old patient an iodotyrosine deiodinase defect was responsible for a profound hypothyroidism (T4-RIA: indetectable -- TSH: 190 microU/ml) associated with a large goiter (about 300 g). MIT and DIT secretions were measured from the urinary cumulative specific activities, and the molar MIT/DIT ratio was 2.2. The thyroidal iodine exchangeable pool was as low as 177 micrograms. In two comparable patients rendered euthyroid by Lipodol injection, total thyroidal 127I pool was around 40 mg and the MIT/DIT ratio was degraded to 7 suggesting a mild biosynthetic defect by iodine excess.", "contents": "[Quantitative aspects of iodine metabolism in one case of congenital iodotyrosine deiodinase defect (author's transl)]. In a 27 years old patient an iodotyrosine deiodinase defect was responsible for a profound hypothyroidism (T4-RIA: indetectable -- TSH: 190 microU/ml) associated with a large goiter (about 300 g). MIT and DIT secretions were measured from the urinary cumulative specific activities, and the molar MIT/DIT ratio was 2.2. The thyroidal iodine exchangeable pool was as low as 177 micrograms. In two comparable patients rendered euthyroid by Lipodol injection, total thyroidal 127I pool was around 40 mg and the MIT/DIT ratio was degraded to 7 suggesting a mild biosynthetic defect by iodine excess.", "PMID": 443737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6287", "title": "[Thyroid cancer with amyloid stroma. Results of a familial study].", "content": "We have recently studied a kindred in which there have been 2 proven and 2 probable cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma without pheochromocytoma, hyperparathyroidism or Cushing's disease. Four other members suffered from intestinal occlusion and death occurred in three of them. The family has been traced through 4 generations (80 members) and 47 members could be examined; circulating calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen levels were measured. This study leads to two conclusions: 1) Medullary thyroid carcinoma is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait with a high degree of penetrance. 2) Carcinoembryonic antigen is a valuable tumour marker particularly if no calcitonin radioimmunoassay is avialable for the diagnosis of M.C.T.", "contents": "[Thyroid cancer with amyloid stroma. Results of a familial study]. We have recently studied a kindred in which there have been 2 proven and 2 probable cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma without pheochromocytoma, hyperparathyroidism or Cushing's disease. Four other members suffered from intestinal occlusion and death occurred in three of them. The family has been traced through 4 generations (80 members) and 47 members could be examined; circulating calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen levels were measured. This study leads to two conclusions: 1) Medullary thyroid carcinoma is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait with a high degree of penetrance. 2) Carcinoembryonic antigen is a valuable tumour marker particularly if no calcitonin radioimmunoassay is avialable for the diagnosis of M.C.T.", "PMID": 443738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6288", "title": "[A case of regressive Riedel's thyroiditis (author's transl)].", "content": "Riedel's struma is one among the locations of an invasive fibroinflammatory and sometimes multifocal process, of unknown etiology. This disease is extremely rare. The authors report a further case in a 41 year old man who had been developing a woody goiter for 3 months. Laboratory investigations showed normal inflammation tests, high rates of antithyroid antibodies and mild hypothyroidism. A surgical operation only consisted in a biopsy, which revealed typical histological features. The only treatment used was a suppletive therapy. During the evolution, antithyroid antibodies progressively decreased, hypothyroidism moderately increased and, chiefly, the goiter completely disappeared after 18 months. To our knowledge, regressive evolution was reported in very few cases after corticoid therapy, but never spontaneously.", "contents": "[A case of regressive Riedel's thyroiditis (author's transl)]. Riedel's struma is one among the locations of an invasive fibroinflammatory and sometimes multifocal process, of unknown etiology. This disease is extremely rare. The authors report a further case in a 41 year old man who had been developing a woody goiter for 3 months. Laboratory investigations showed normal inflammation tests, high rates of antithyroid antibodies and mild hypothyroidism. A surgical operation only consisted in a biopsy, which revealed typical histological features. The only treatment used was a suppletive therapy. During the evolution, antithyroid antibodies progressively decreased, hypothyroidism moderately increased and, chiefly, the goiter completely disappeared after 18 months. To our knowledge, regressive evolution was reported in very few cases after corticoid therapy, but never spontaneously.", "PMID": 443740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6289", "title": "[Simultaneous radiocompetitive assay for 25 hydroxyvitamin D and 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D in human serum (author's transl)].", "content": "A specific competitive protein binding assay for 25 hydroxy-vitamin D and 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D in human serum has been developed. It includes a chromatographic step on a Sephadex LH 20 column to specifically separate the metabolites. The average value was for 25 hydroxyvitamin D 11.9 +/- 6.6 Ng/ml (mean +/- SD) and for 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D 6.85 +/- 3.29 ng/ml in ten normal subjects sampled in autumn. In hepatic insufficiencies the mean level of 25 hydroxyvitamin D was lower and the mean level of 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D was higher than in normal subjects. In patients with renal insufficiency the 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels were normal and the 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D levels were low but not suppressed. The two sterols were also determined in some patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria.", "contents": "[Simultaneous radiocompetitive assay for 25 hydroxyvitamin D and 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D in human serum (author's transl)]. A specific competitive protein binding assay for 25 hydroxy-vitamin D and 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D in human serum has been developed. It includes a chromatographic step on a Sephadex LH 20 column to specifically separate the metabolites. The average value was for 25 hydroxyvitamin D 11.9 +/- 6.6 Ng/ml (mean +/- SD) and for 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D 6.85 +/- 3.29 ng/ml in ten normal subjects sampled in autumn. In hepatic insufficiencies the mean level of 25 hydroxyvitamin D was lower and the mean level of 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D was higher than in normal subjects. In patients with renal insufficiency the 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels were normal and the 24, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D levels were low but not suppressed. The two sterols were also determined in some patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria.", "PMID": 443744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6290", "title": "[Multiple effects of resorcinol on thyroid function (author's transl)].", "content": "In rats, I.V. injected resorcinol led to a decrease in thyroid radioiodine uptake and labelled iodothyronine/iodotyrosine ratio with no changes in the percent of thyroidal labelled iodide or radioiodine release. When thyroid lobes were incubated in vitro with radioiodine, resorcinol concentrations from 10(-3)M to 10(-6)M gave an increase in the percent of thyroidal labelled iodide and iodotyrosine/iodothyronine ratio. In animals fed 5% resorcinol for 2 weeks we observed an increase in thyroid weight, a decrease in plasma T4, no change in the percent of free T4, a decrease in T4 half life and no significant changes in T3 half life. Thyroidal labelled MIT/DIT and T3/T4 atios increased. Resorcinol, given in diet during 5 days to rats which had a low thyroidal thyroglobulin content after PTU administration for 2 weeks, gave, in comparison with rats fed PTU only, an increase in thyroidal thyroglobulin/DNA ratio and a decrease in thyroidal radioiodine release contrasting with an increase in plasma TSH. These differences did not exist when resorcinol was given for one month.", "contents": "[Multiple effects of resorcinol on thyroid function (author's transl)]. In rats, I.V. injected resorcinol led to a decrease in thyroid radioiodine uptake and labelled iodothyronine/iodotyrosine ratio with no changes in the percent of thyroidal labelled iodide or radioiodine release. When thyroid lobes were incubated in vitro with radioiodine, resorcinol concentrations from 10(-3)M to 10(-6)M gave an increase in the percent of thyroidal labelled iodide and iodotyrosine/iodothyronine ratio. In animals fed 5% resorcinol for 2 weeks we observed an increase in thyroid weight, a decrease in plasma T4, no change in the percent of free T4, a decrease in T4 half life and no significant changes in T3 half life. Thyroidal labelled MIT/DIT and T3/T4 atios increased. Resorcinol, given in diet during 5 days to rats which had a low thyroidal thyroglobulin content after PTU administration for 2 weeks, gave, in comparison with rats fed PTU only, an increase in thyroidal thyroglobulin/DNA ratio and a decrease in thyroidal radioiodine release contrasting with an increase in plasma TSH. These differences did not exist when resorcinol was given for one month.", "PMID": 443741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6291", "title": "[Prolactin-secreting adenomas in males. Study of the hypophyseal-gonadal axis].", "content": "The pituitary gonadal-axis has been studied in 25 cases of PRL-secreting adenomas in men. Besides impotence, infertility, arrest or lack of puberty may be observed, basal levels of LH and FSH are in the low normal range but a weak increase of LH is observed after LH-RH. Testosterone (T) levels are low in most of the patients and only normal in 5. In two cases with actively secreting-PRL adenomas, normal circadian rhythms of T and PRL are abolished. After CB 154 treatment, an improvement of the clinical and biological symptoms is observed in 8 out of 10 men. An increase of LH response to LH-RH under CB 154 is obtained in 5 cases. This is in favour of a functional effect of the hyperprolactinemia on the pituitary.", "contents": "[Prolactin-secreting adenomas in males. Study of the hypophyseal-gonadal axis]. The pituitary gonadal-axis has been studied in 25 cases of PRL-secreting adenomas in men. Besides impotence, infertility, arrest or lack of puberty may be observed, basal levels of LH and FSH are in the low normal range but a weak increase of LH is observed after LH-RH. Testosterone (T) levels are low in most of the patients and only normal in 5. In two cases with actively secreting-PRL adenomas, normal circadian rhythms of T and PRL are abolished. After CB 154 treatment, an improvement of the clinical and biological symptoms is observed in 8 out of 10 men. An increase of LH response to LH-RH under CB 154 is obtained in 5 cases. This is in favour of a functional effect of the hyperprolactinemia on the pituitary.", "PMID": 443743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6292", "title": "Osmotic opening of the blood-brain barrier and local cerebral glucose utilization.", "content": "The effects of osmotic opening of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) on local cerebral glucose utilization (LCGU) were studied in rats with the carbon 14-deoxyglucose method. The BBB was opened to Evans blue dye by unilateral carotid artery perfusion with hypertonic mannitol solution. (14C)-Deoxyglucose was injected 15 minutes or two to three hours later. Osmotic opening of the BBB resulted in focal areas of intense LCGU in affected areas of the perfused hemisphere. In the contralateral hemisphere, glucose utilization was diminished, especially in cerebral cortical areas. The effects were reversible. LCGU was normal in both hemispheres when permeability to Evans blue returned to normal two to three hours after carotid artery perfusion. In 3 of 5 experiments the administration of high doses of intravenous diazepam immediately following carotid artery perfusion with mannitol prevented an increase in LCGU in the perfused hemisphere but did not prevent lowering of LCGU in the contralateral hemisphere. Increased LCGU following osmotic opening of the BBB was not accompanied by a rise in local cerebral blood flow as measured by the iodoantipyrine method. Blood flow was, in fact, significantly decreased.", "contents": "Osmotic opening of the blood-brain barrier and local cerebral glucose utilization. The effects of osmotic opening of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) on local cerebral glucose utilization (LCGU) were studied in rats with the carbon 14-deoxyglucose method. The BBB was opened to Evans blue dye by unilateral carotid artery perfusion with hypertonic mannitol solution. (14C)-Deoxyglucose was injected 15 minutes or two to three hours later. Osmotic opening of the BBB resulted in focal areas of intense LCGU in affected areas of the perfused hemisphere. In the contralateral hemisphere, glucose utilization was diminished, especially in cerebral cortical areas. The effects were reversible. LCGU was normal in both hemispheres when permeability to Evans blue returned to normal two to three hours after carotid artery perfusion. In 3 of 5 experiments the administration of high doses of intravenous diazepam immediately following carotid artery perfusion with mannitol prevented an increase in LCGU in the perfused hemisphere but did not prevent lowering of LCGU in the contralateral hemisphere. Increased LCGU following osmotic opening of the BBB was not accompanied by a rise in local cerebral blood flow as measured by the iodoantipyrine method. Blood flow was, in fact, significantly decreased.", "PMID": 443753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6293", "title": "[The effect of eyestalk extirpation on the development of Pisidia longicornis (Crustacea, Decapoda, Anomura) (author's transl)].", "content": "Eyestalk removal has been performed on the larvae of Pisidia longicornis the first day after moulting to the second zoea stage. In the eyestalkless animals: -- The duration of the second zoea stage is not significantly affected. -- The megalopa stage is always abbreviated. -- The megalopae exhibits a reduced color-pattern.-- Difficulties occur often during moulting to the adult stage. -- The pleopods of some first and even second or third stage adults retain some setae.", "contents": "[The effect of eyestalk extirpation on the development of Pisidia longicornis (Crustacea, Decapoda, Anomura) (author's transl)]. Eyestalk removal has been performed on the larvae of Pisidia longicornis the first day after moulting to the second zoea stage. In the eyestalkless animals: -- The duration of the second zoea stage is not significantly affected. -- The megalopa stage is always abbreviated. -- The megalopae exhibits a reduced color-pattern.-- Difficulties occur often during moulting to the adult stage. -- The pleopods of some first and even second or third stage adults retain some setae.", "PMID": 443746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6294", "title": "[Adrenoleukodystrophy (Schilder-Addison's disease): a probable case in an adult (author's transl)].", "content": "Adrenoleukodystrophy (Schilder-Addison's disease) is a sex-linked recessive syndrome usually observed in children, associating neurological disorders and Addison's disease. Its outcome is death after a few years. The authors report the case of a man in whom a spastic paraparesis and a mental deterioration appeared at the age of 30 years. A biological adrenal deficiency was found: plasma cortisol and urinary 17-hydroxy-steroids and 17-ketosteroids failed to increase after synacthen stimulation; plasma ACTH level was above normal. Since two nephews of the patient suffered from adrenoleukodystrophy, the same disease is likely in the reported patient.", "contents": "[Adrenoleukodystrophy (Schilder-Addison's disease): a probable case in an adult (author's transl)]. Adrenoleukodystrophy (Schilder-Addison's disease) is a sex-linked recessive syndrome usually observed in children, associating neurological disorders and Addison's disease. Its outcome is death after a few years. The authors report the case of a man in whom a spastic paraparesis and a mental deterioration appeared at the age of 30 years. A biological adrenal deficiency was found: plasma cortisol and urinary 17-hydroxy-steroids and 17-ketosteroids failed to increase after synacthen stimulation; plasma ACTH level was above normal. Since two nephews of the patient suffered from adrenoleukodystrophy, the same disease is likely in the reported patient.", "PMID": 443745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6295", "title": "[Appearance and localization of pancreatic polypeptide (PP) containing cells in the pancreas of human fetuses (author's transl)].", "content": "PP-cells were detected by using an anti-bovine PP (BPP) serum (a gift ot Dr. R. E. Chance, Eli Lilly Laboratories, Indianapolis) in the pancreas of the normal and anencephalic human fetuses, and decreased premature infants. The first PP-cells were observed as early as 10 weeks of gestation. The PP-cells were located in the periphery of the islets. The islets containing PP-cells were essentially located in the lower part of the head of the pancreas, whereas glucagon-cells are located in the other regions of the pancreas. Somatostatin- and insulin-cells were uniformly distributed in the pancreas. The PP-cells seemed to be related to the ventral bud of the pancreas.", "contents": "[Appearance and localization of pancreatic polypeptide (PP) containing cells in the pancreas of human fetuses (author's transl)]. PP-cells were detected by using an anti-bovine PP (BPP) serum (a gift ot Dr. R. E. Chance, Eli Lilly Laboratories, Indianapolis) in the pancreas of the normal and anencephalic human fetuses, and decreased premature infants. The first PP-cells were observed as early as 10 weeks of gestation. The PP-cells were located in the periphery of the islets. The islets containing PP-cells were essentially located in the lower part of the head of the pancreas, whereas glucagon-cells are located in the other regions of the pancreas. Somatostatin- and insulin-cells were uniformly distributed in the pancreas. The PP-cells seemed to be related to the ventral bud of the pancreas.", "PMID": 443742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6296", "title": "Sporadic distal myopathy with early adult onset.", "content": "With the exception of the large series of adult-onset hereditary distal myopathy from Sweden, few cases of primary muscle disease with a definite distal predilection have been published. We report 3 sporadic cases of distal myopathy with the following features: (1) early adult onset (26 to 33 years); (2) slowly progressive weakness affecting first the distal leg muscles and later the arms; (3) marked elevation of creatine phosphokinase (more than 10 times the normal value); and (4) electromyographic and histological evidence of myopathy in distal muscles. The differential diagnosis is discussed and other reported cases are reviewed. The differences between hereditary cases reported by others and the sporadic cases reported here form the basis for a tentative subclassification of this syndrome.", "contents": "Sporadic distal myopathy with early adult onset. With the exception of the large series of adult-onset hereditary distal myopathy from Sweden, few cases of primary muscle disease with a definite distal predilection have been published. We report 3 sporadic cases of distal myopathy with the following features: (1) early adult onset (26 to 33 years); (2) slowly progressive weakness affecting first the distal leg muscles and later the arms; (3) marked elevation of creatine phosphokinase (more than 10 times the normal value); and (4) electromyographic and histological evidence of myopathy in distal muscles. The differential diagnosis is discussed and other reported cases are reviewed. The differences between hereditary cases reported by others and the sporadic cases reported here form the basis for a tentative subclassification of this syndrome.", "PMID": 443754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6297", "title": "[Hypophysial stimulation of oestradiol-17 beta secretion in Carp, Cyprinus Carpio L (author's transl)].", "content": "Using radioimmunoassays, plasma levels of carp gonadotropin (c-GTH) and oestradiol-17 beta (E2) are measured every day in Carp, during induced spawning (water temperature = 15 degrees C). Ten Carps injected twice intraperitonealy with a total extract of Carp hypophysis (0,6 mg/kg BW at Jo and 5,4 mg/kg BW at J1) are compared to a lot receiving only saline solution. No evolution is detected in that last group when in the experimental one E2 level increases with exogenous c-GTH (see table). Even if E2 levels are low at the end of vitellogenesis, steroidogenic structures remain sensitive to an exogenous hypophysial stimulation. Secretion ability differs within individuals (correlation coefficient between total estimated c-GTH and E2 = 0,15).", "contents": "[Hypophysial stimulation of oestradiol-17 beta secretion in Carp, Cyprinus Carpio L (author's transl)]. Using radioimmunoassays, plasma levels of carp gonadotropin (c-GTH) and oestradiol-17 beta (E2) are measured every day in Carp, during induced spawning (water temperature = 15 degrees C). Ten Carps injected twice intraperitonealy with a total extract of Carp hypophysis (0,6 mg/kg BW at Jo and 5,4 mg/kg BW at J1) are compared to a lot receiving only saline solution. No evolution is detected in that last group when in the experimental one E2 level increases with exogenous c-GTH (see table). Even if E2 levels are low at the end of vitellogenesis, steroidogenic structures remain sensitive to an exogenous hypophysial stimulation. Secretion ability differs within individuals (correlation coefficient between total estimated c-GTH and E2 = 0,15).", "PMID": 443748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6298", "title": "Bolous versus steady-state infusion for determination of CSF outflow resistance.", "content": "For rapid changes in cerebrospinal fluid volume an exponential relationship was demonstrated between CSF pressure and CSF volume in 15 cats. This relationship was valid over a CSF pressure range from 7 to 50 mm Hg and for acute increases of up to 9% to total CSF volume (approximately 13 ml for humans). Our data agree well with previous reports for the cat. A similar relationship has been shown in the dog and in humans. It has been claimed that, given the equations for CSF bulk flow and the exponential relationship between CSF pressure and CSF volume, one can calculate CSF outflow resistance by observing the decay of CSF pressure after a bolus injection into the CSF space. This claim was evaluated in an additional 18 cats. In these animals CSF outflow resistance calculated by the bolus method was compared with resistance calculated by a steady-state infusion method over the CSF outflow resistance range of 74 to 293 mm Hg/ml min-1. Resistance calculated by the bolus method underestimated resistance calculated by the steady-state method, and this underestimate grew larger with increasing resistance. The bolus technique is therefore not a valid method for determining CSF outflow resistance. The explanation offered for these results is that the decay of CSF pressure after a bolus injection into the CSF space occurs not only because of runoff of the injected volume of CSF but also because of \"pressure relaxation\" of the brain parenchyma around the CSF space. The phenomenon of pressure relaxation was not considered in developing the equation for calculation of CSF outflow resistance by the bolus technique. The time dependency of pressure relaxation allows for a fundamental element of hysteresis within the CSF space. A method of quantifying this element of hysteresis is suggested.", "contents": "Bolous versus steady-state infusion for determination of CSF outflow resistance. For rapid changes in cerebrospinal fluid volume an exponential relationship was demonstrated between CSF pressure and CSF volume in 15 cats. This relationship was valid over a CSF pressure range from 7 to 50 mm Hg and for acute increases of up to 9% to total CSF volume (approximately 13 ml for humans). Our data agree well with previous reports for the cat. A similar relationship has been shown in the dog and in humans. It has been claimed that, given the equations for CSF bulk flow and the exponential relationship between CSF pressure and CSF volume, one can calculate CSF outflow resistance by observing the decay of CSF pressure after a bolus injection into the CSF space. This claim was evaluated in an additional 18 cats. In these animals CSF outflow resistance calculated by the bolus method was compared with resistance calculated by a steady-state infusion method over the CSF outflow resistance range of 74 to 293 mm Hg/ml min-1. Resistance calculated by the bolus method underestimated resistance calculated by the steady-state method, and this underestimate grew larger with increasing resistance. The bolus technique is therefore not a valid method for determining CSF outflow resistance. The explanation offered for these results is that the decay of CSF pressure after a bolus injection into the CSF space occurs not only because of runoff of the injected volume of CSF but also because of \"pressure relaxation\" of the brain parenchyma around the CSF space. The phenomenon of pressure relaxation was not considered in developing the equation for calculation of CSF outflow resistance by the bolus technique. The time dependency of pressure relaxation allows for a fundamental element of hysteresis within the CSF space. A method of quantifying this element of hysteresis is suggested.", "PMID": 443755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6299", "title": "[Effects of gonad-inhibiting factor from the brain upon morphology and metabolism in germ cells and sexula somatic cells of nemertines (author's transl)].", "content": "After the deprivation of gonad-inhibiting factor (GIF) from the brain in adult Nemertines of both sexes, the sexual characters appear and/or grow rapidly. Very early, RNA synthesis is promoted in young oocytes, DNA synthesis is increased in spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes and protein synthesis is significantly increased in germ cells and sexual somatic cells. The brain origin of GIF suggests a polypeptide nature whereas its effects are those of sex steroid hormones in Vertebrates. GIF could be a regulating hormone which would inhibit the secretion of tropic hormone(s) produced by unknown cells in proximity to the sexual targets.", "contents": "[Effects of gonad-inhibiting factor from the brain upon morphology and metabolism in germ cells and sexula somatic cells of nemertines (author's transl)]. After the deprivation of gonad-inhibiting factor (GIF) from the brain in adult Nemertines of both sexes, the sexual characters appear and/or grow rapidly. Very early, RNA synthesis is promoted in young oocytes, DNA synthesis is increased in spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes and protein synthesis is significantly increased in germ cells and sexual somatic cells. The brain origin of GIF suggests a polypeptide nature whereas its effects are those of sex steroid hormones in Vertebrates. GIF could be a regulating hormone which would inhibit the secretion of tropic hormone(s) produced by unknown cells in proximity to the sexual targets.", "PMID": 443747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6300", "title": "[Is sexual differentiation in cephalopods embryos (Sepia officinalis L) under endocrine control (author's transl)].", "content": "The sex differenciation in the gonad of the cuttlefish is only evident after the hatching, -- the \"A\" cells become spermatogonia or ovogonia. In the embryonic gonads, bigger cells called \"B\" seem participate in this differenciation (ultrastructural active aspects in concordance with sexual differentiation).", "contents": "[Is sexual differentiation in cephalopods embryos (Sepia officinalis L) under endocrine control (author's transl)]. The sex differenciation in the gonad of the cuttlefish is only evident after the hatching, -- the \"A\" cells become spermatogonia or ovogonia. In the embryonic gonads, bigger cells called \"B\" seem participate in this differenciation (ultrastructural active aspects in concordance with sexual differentiation).", "PMID": 443750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6301", "title": "[Seasonal variations in epinephrine (E) and norepinephrine (NE) levels determined in organs of eel (author's transl)].", "content": "E and NE concentrations were measured by using a spectrofluorimetric method in various organs of eels, for a one year period. NE was found at higher levels than E in the whole brain, the heart, and the spleen. Maximal E levels occurred in kidney. Moreover (E + NE) sum is 40 to 190% higher than during spring and summer when compared to autumn and winter levels. According to the fact that seasonal variations of catecholamines were not found in the eel plasma, these results suggest that the observed seasonal variations can be related to fluctuation in CA amounts localized in synaptic structures.", "contents": "[Seasonal variations in epinephrine (E) and norepinephrine (NE) levels determined in organs of eel (author's transl)]. E and NE concentrations were measured by using a spectrofluorimetric method in various organs of eels, for a one year period. NE was found at higher levels than E in the whole brain, the heart, and the spleen. Maximal E levels occurred in kidney. Moreover (E + NE) sum is 40 to 190% higher than during spring and summer when compared to autumn and winter levels. According to the fact that seasonal variations of catecholamines were not found in the eel plasma, these results suggest that the observed seasonal variations can be related to fluctuation in CA amounts localized in synaptic structures.", "PMID": 443752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6302", "title": "Endoneurial lipid composition of normal human sural nerve.", "content": "The endoneurial lipid composition was determined in 7 human sural nerves from subjects without known neurological disease. The nerves were morphologically normal, with myelinated fiber density of 7,710 +/- 1,210/mm2 (mean +/- SD). Endoneurium contained 30.7 +/- 1.5 mg total lipid per 100 mg of dry weight. Cholesterol was the predominant lipid (9.1 +/- 1.0 mg). Cholesterol ester was present only in very small quantities (0.2 +/- 0.1 mg). Cerebroside concentration was 4.5 +/- 0.3 mg, and sulfatide was 1.5 +/- 0.3 mg. The most abundant phospholipid was sphingomyelin (4.3 +/- 0.3 mg), followed by phosphatidylethanolamine (4.1 +/- 0.2 mg), phosphatidylcholine (3.8 +/- 0.2 mg), and phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine (1.7 +/- 0.2 mg). Eighty-one percent of cerebroside nonhydroxy fatty acids were long chain (C20 to C26), and 67% were saturated. Technological advances now permit microchemical lipid analysis of human sural nerve biopsies in cases of neuropathy. When compared with our normative data, such studies may further the understanding of peripheral nerve disorders.", "contents": "Endoneurial lipid composition of normal human sural nerve. The endoneurial lipid composition was determined in 7 human sural nerves from subjects without known neurological disease. The nerves were morphologically normal, with myelinated fiber density of 7,710 +/- 1,210/mm2 (mean +/- SD). Endoneurium contained 30.7 +/- 1.5 mg total lipid per 100 mg of dry weight. Cholesterol was the predominant lipid (9.1 +/- 1.0 mg). Cholesterol ester was present only in very small quantities (0.2 +/- 0.1 mg). Cerebroside concentration was 4.5 +/- 0.3 mg, and sulfatide was 1.5 +/- 0.3 mg. The most abundant phospholipid was sphingomyelin (4.3 +/- 0.3 mg), followed by phosphatidylethanolamine (4.1 +/- 0.2 mg), phosphatidylcholine (3.8 +/- 0.2 mg), and phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine (1.7 +/- 0.2 mg). Eighty-one percent of cerebroside nonhydroxy fatty acids were long chain (C20 to C26), and 67% were saturated. Technological advances now permit microchemical lipid analysis of human sural nerve biopsies in cases of neuropathy. When compared with our normative data, such studies may further the understanding of peripheral nerve disorders.", "PMID": 443756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6303", "title": "[Ultrastructure of prolactin cells of three Mugilidae during adaptation to fresh-water (author's transl)].", "content": "The behaviour of three species of Mugilidae (Mugil ramada, Crenimugil labrosus and Mugil auratus) during adaptation to fresh water is very different. Those differences may be explain by variants of their prolactin cells activity. The adaptation of Mugil ramada and Crenimugil labrosus to fresh water is easy and last over a long time; the prolactin cells, with a slow activity in sea water, become during adaptation more active. In Mugil auratus in sea water, prolactin cells present already a sign of strong activity. After transfert in fresh water, they appear to be unable to increase their activity. The adaptation of this species is difficult and short-lasting.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of prolactin cells of three Mugilidae during adaptation to fresh-water (author's transl)]. The behaviour of three species of Mugilidae (Mugil ramada, Crenimugil labrosus and Mugil auratus) during adaptation to fresh water is very different. Those differences may be explain by variants of their prolactin cells activity. The adaptation of Mugil ramada and Crenimugil labrosus to fresh water is easy and last over a long time; the prolactin cells, with a slow activity in sea water, become during adaptation more active. In Mugil auratus in sea water, prolactin cells present already a sign of strong activity. After transfert in fresh water, they appear to be unable to increase their activity. The adaptation of this species is difficult and short-lasting.", "PMID": 443749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6304", "title": "Nerve lipid abnormalities in human diabetic neuropathy: a correlative study.", "content": "To study endoneurial lipid composition in human diabetic neuropathy, we biopsied sural nerves from 3 middleaged men with adult-onset diabetes mellitus. Magnitude of electrophysiological abnormalities and myelinated fiber loss paralleled the clinical severity of neuropathy in all cases. Cholesterol ester concentration was elevated to about 800% of normal in diabetic nerves. Reduction in total endoneurial lipid concentration correlated best with decrease in myelin volume as calculated from measured fiber diameters. Cholesterol, cerebroside, and most phospholipids were reduced in keeping with the severity of fiber loss in each nerve. The phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine fraction was most reduced in the least affected nerves. Cerebroside nonhydroxy fatty acids in diabetic nerves were of shorter chain length and more saturated than normal. It is not yet clear whether the abnormalities of phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine and cerebroside fatty acids are of pathogenetic importance or whether these changes may be the nonspecific consequence of axonal degeneration.", "contents": "Nerve lipid abnormalities in human diabetic neuropathy: a correlative study. To study endoneurial lipid composition in human diabetic neuropathy, we biopsied sural nerves from 3 middleaged men with adult-onset diabetes mellitus. Magnitude of electrophysiological abnormalities and myelinated fiber loss paralleled the clinical severity of neuropathy in all cases. Cholesterol ester concentration was elevated to about 800% of normal in diabetic nerves. Reduction in total endoneurial lipid concentration correlated best with decrease in myelin volume as calculated from measured fiber diameters. Cholesterol, cerebroside, and most phospholipids were reduced in keeping with the severity of fiber loss in each nerve. The phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine fraction was most reduced in the least affected nerves. Cerebroside nonhydroxy fatty acids in diabetic nerves were of shorter chain length and more saturated than normal. It is not yet clear whether the abnormalities of phosphatidylinositol-phosphatidylserine and cerebroside fatty acids are of pathogenetic importance or whether these changes may be the nonspecific consequence of axonal degeneration.", "PMID": 443757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6305", "title": "Mucocutaneous eruptions due to antiepileptic drug therapy in children.", "content": "Three children with bullous erythema multiforme and 1 with toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with antiepileptic drug therapy are described. One patient is unique because of seven mucocutaneous eruptions caused by three classes of antiepileptic drugs. Lymphocyte stimulation by antiepileptic drugs could not be demonstrated in the 2 patients in whom appropriate studies were performed, and no precipitating antibodies to antiepileptic drugs were found. Observation of four diagnostic and therapeutic principles, which are illustrated by the course of our patients, may reduce the incidence of life-threatening mucocutaneous eruptions and simplify the long-term management of individuals in whom such reactions occur.", "contents": "Mucocutaneous eruptions due to antiepileptic drug therapy in children. Three children with bullous erythema multiforme and 1 with toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with antiepileptic drug therapy are described. One patient is unique because of seven mucocutaneous eruptions caused by three classes of antiepileptic drugs. Lymphocyte stimulation by antiepileptic drugs could not be demonstrated in the 2 patients in whom appropriate studies were performed, and no precipitating antibodies to antiepileptic drugs were found. Observation of four diagnostic and therapeutic principles, which are illustrated by the course of our patients, may reduce the incidence of life-threatening mucocutaneous eruptions and simplify the long-term management of individuals in whom such reactions occur.", "PMID": 443758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6306", "title": "[Circadian and circannuel fluctuations of pineal metatonin content in Testudo hermanni G. (Reptilia-Chelonia) under natural conditions of photoperiod and temperature (author's transl)].", "content": "Pineal content of melatonin is measured by RIA. The tortoise, Testudo hermanni, in natural lighting, shows peak night-time melatonin levels during summer (may to september) at the period of greatest activity. During hibernation, melatonin levels are very low and no circadian variation can be detected.", "contents": "[Circadian and circannuel fluctuations of pineal metatonin content in Testudo hermanni G. (Reptilia-Chelonia) under natural conditions of photoperiod and temperature (author's transl)]. Pineal content of melatonin is measured by RIA. The tortoise, Testudo hermanni, in natural lighting, shows peak night-time melatonin levels during summer (may to september) at the period of greatest activity. During hibernation, melatonin levels are very low and no circadian variation can be detected.", "PMID": 443751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6307", "title": "Oral phenytoin loading in adults: rapid achievement of therapeutic plasma levels.", "content": "Oral loading doses of phenytoin were estimated from a simplified pharmacokinetic model. Twenty patients were administered a calculated average dose of 19.1 mg per kilogram of phenytoin divided into two to four increments given over 3 to 21 hours (10.55 +/- 4.74, mean +/- SD). Plasma samples drawn 2 to 22 hours (10.75 +/- 4.32, mean +/- SD) after completion of the loading dose resulted in therapeutic levels ranging from 8.1 to 18.0 microgram per milliliter (11.42-11.37 +/- 2.41, mean +/- SD). Thus, this regimen in which no increment of the loading dose exceeds 600 mg is sufficient to achieve and maintain therapeutic plasma concentrations 18 to 24 hours after initiation of the loading dose.", "contents": "Oral phenytoin loading in adults: rapid achievement of therapeutic plasma levels. Oral loading doses of phenytoin were estimated from a simplified pharmacokinetic model. Twenty patients were administered a calculated average dose of 19.1 mg per kilogram of phenytoin divided into two to four increments given over 3 to 21 hours (10.55 +/- 4.74, mean +/- SD). Plasma samples drawn 2 to 22 hours (10.75 +/- 4.32, mean +/- SD) after completion of the loading dose resulted in therapeutic levels ranging from 8.1 to 18.0 microgram per milliliter (11.42-11.37 +/- 2.41, mean +/- SD). Thus, this regimen in which no increment of the loading dose exceeds 600 mg is sufficient to achieve and maintain therapeutic plasma concentrations 18 to 24 hours after initiation of the loading dose.", "PMID": 443759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6308", "title": "Subacute motor neuronopathy: a remote effect of lymphoma.", "content": "Ten patients developed a subacute lower motor neuron syndrome as a remote effect of Hodgkin's disease or other lymphoma. The illness usually followed a benign course independent of the activity of the underlying neoplasm. Seven of the patients improved spontaneously, and 3 became neurologically normal. Two patients died of intercurrent infections related to immunosuppression. Neuropathological examination of these 2 patients and 3 previously reported cases showed prominent neuronal degeneration restricted to the anterior horns of the spinal cord and mild posterior column demyelination. Demyelination was also present in the anterior roots of our autopsied patients and was accompanied by large, hyperchromatic Schwann cells. The cause of the illness is obscure, but both radiation therapy and opportunistic infection may be contributing factors. Attempts at virus isolation have been unsuccessful. The syndrome should be distinguished from the more common direct effects of lymphoma on the nervous system, since its identification spares the patient additional, potentially harmful therapy.", "contents": "Subacute motor neuronopathy: a remote effect of lymphoma. Ten patients developed a subacute lower motor neuron syndrome as a remote effect of Hodgkin's disease or other lymphoma. The illness usually followed a benign course independent of the activity of the underlying neoplasm. Seven of the patients improved spontaneously, and 3 became neurologically normal. Two patients died of intercurrent infections related to immunosuppression. Neuropathological examination of these 2 patients and 3 previously reported cases showed prominent neuronal degeneration restricted to the anterior horns of the spinal cord and mild posterior column demyelination. Demyelination was also present in the anterior roots of our autopsied patients and was accompanied by large, hyperchromatic Schwann cells. The cause of the illness is obscure, but both radiation therapy and opportunistic infection may be contributing factors. Attempts at virus isolation have been unsuccessful. The syndrome should be distinguished from the more common direct effects of lymphoma on the nervous system, since its identification spares the patient additional, potentially harmful therapy.", "PMID": 443760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6309", "title": "The origin of fasciculations in motoneuron disease.", "content": "The collision technique was used to determine the origin of distal fasciculations in 25 motor units from 9 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 6 with other diseases involving motoneurons. Fasciculations originated in the nerve proximal to the knee or elbow in 15 and distally in 2; multiple sites of origin were found in 8 motor units. The origin was not related to the presence or absence of electromyographic evidence for collateral sprouting or lesions in descending suprasegmental pathways.", "contents": "The origin of fasciculations in motoneuron disease. The collision technique was used to determine the origin of distal fasciculations in 25 motor units from 9 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 6 with other diseases involving motoneurons. Fasciculations originated in the nerve proximal to the knee or elbow in 15 and distally in 2; multiple sites of origin were found in 8 motor units. The origin was not related to the presence or absence of electromyographic evidence for collateral sprouting or lesions in descending suprasegmental pathways.", "PMID": 443761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6310", "title": "Musical hallucinations in a deaf elderly patient.", "content": "A remarkably observant 89-year-old woman experienced the abrupt onset of musical hallucinations on the background of longstanding progressive hearing loss and in the absence of psychosis or major dementia. These hallucinations were nearly constant, wellformed perceptions of religious hymns, and their content could be altered by several mechanisms. The patient also occasionally heard voices recapitulating childhood experiences. One can speculate that the syndrome relates to sensory deprivation.", "contents": "Musical hallucinations in a deaf elderly patient. A remarkably observant 89-year-old woman experienced the abrupt onset of musical hallucinations on the background of longstanding progressive hearing loss and in the absence of psychosis or major dementia. These hallucinations were nearly constant, wellformed perceptions of religious hymns, and their content could be altered by several mechanisms. The patient also occasionally heard voices recapitulating childhood experiences. One can speculate that the syndrome relates to sensory deprivation.", "PMID": 443762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6311", "title": "Choroid plexus papilloma and infantile spasms.", "content": "A 7-month-old infant had the infantile spasm syndrome, consisting of flexor and extensor spasms, developmental delay, and hypsarrhythmia. Corticotropin produced delay, and hypsarrhythmia. Corticotropin produced improvement in the clinical symptoms and reverted the generalized electroencephalographic abnormalities to more focal ones. Removal of a choroid plexus papilloma of the left lateral ventricle was followed by clinical recovery. One year later the child was normal developmentally and neurologically and was seizure free on anticonvulsant therapy.", "contents": "Choroid plexus papilloma and infantile spasms. A 7-month-old infant had the infantile spasm syndrome, consisting of flexor and extensor spasms, developmental delay, and hypsarrhythmia. Corticotropin produced delay, and hypsarrhythmia. Corticotropin produced improvement in the clinical symptoms and reverted the generalized electroencephalographic abnormalities to more focal ones. Removal of a choroid plexus papilloma of the left lateral ventricle was followed by clinical recovery. One year later the child was normal developmentally and neurologically and was seizure free on anticonvulsant therapy.", "PMID": 443763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6312", "title": "Brain electrical activity mapping (BEAM): a method for extending the clinical utility of EEG and evoked potential data.", "content": "The difficulties inherent in extracting clinically useful information by visual inspection alone from the massive amounts of data contained in multichannel polygraphic recordings have placed limits on the accuracy and range of utility of electroencephalography and evoked potentials. A method for condensing and summarizing the spatiotemporal information contained in recordings from multiple scalp electrodes is described. Data dimensionality is reduced and visibility increased by computer-controlled topographic mapping and display of data as color television images. Examples are given in which such brain electrical activity mapping (BEAM) (1) localizes tumors in patients with normal or nondiagnostic EEGs, (2) adds additional information to that visible on computerized axial tomography, and (3) demonstrates electrophysiological abnormalities in patients with functional lesions but normal CT scans. A sensitivity to the functional component of a neurological lesion suggests that BEAM may provide complementary information to the anatomical definition provided by the CT scan.", "contents": "Brain electrical activity mapping (BEAM): a method for extending the clinical utility of EEG and evoked potential data. The difficulties inherent in extracting clinically useful information by visual inspection alone from the massive amounts of data contained in multichannel polygraphic recordings have placed limits on the accuracy and range of utility of electroencephalography and evoked potentials. A method for condensing and summarizing the spatiotemporal information contained in recordings from multiple scalp electrodes is described. Data dimensionality is reduced and visibility increased by computer-controlled topographic mapping and display of data as color television images. Examples are given in which such brain electrical activity mapping (BEAM) (1) localizes tumors in patients with normal or nondiagnostic EEGs, (2) adds additional information to that visible on computerized axial tomography, and (3) demonstrates electrophysiological abnormalities in patients with functional lesions but normal CT scans. A sensitivity to the functional component of a neurological lesion suggests that BEAM may provide complementary information to the anatomical definition provided by the CT scan.", "PMID": 443765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6313", "title": "Substances which modulate leukocyte migration are present in CSF during meningitis.", "content": "We studied the effects on in vitro leukocyte migration of cerebrospinal fluid from 14 patients with and 7 patients without meningitis. Meningitic CSF, but not control CSF, contained activity that was chemotactic for peripheral blood leukocytes. In an unusual case of staphylococcal meningitis associated with a blunted CSF pleocytosis and a poor clinical response to antibiotics, an inhibitor of leukocyte chemotaxis was identified in the CSF. This inhibitor may have diminished local leukocyte accumulation in vivo and thereby adversely affected host defense mechanisms and clinical outcome. No inhibitors were found in other CSF samples tested. Soluble mediators present in CSF may modulate the local accumulation of leukocytes and therefore affect host defenses in meningitis.", "contents": "Substances which modulate leukocyte migration are present in CSF during meningitis. We studied the effects on in vitro leukocyte migration of cerebrospinal fluid from 14 patients with and 7 patients without meningitis. Meningitic CSF, but not control CSF, contained activity that was chemotactic for peripheral blood leukocytes. In an unusual case of staphylococcal meningitis associated with a blunted CSF pleocytosis and a poor clinical response to antibiotics, an inhibitor of leukocyte chemotaxis was identified in the CSF. This inhibitor may have diminished local leukocyte accumulation in vivo and thereby adversely affected host defense mechanisms and clinical outcome. No inhibitors were found in other CSF samples tested. Soluble mediators present in CSF may modulate the local accumulation of leukocytes and therefore affect host defenses in meningitis.", "PMID": 443766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6314", "title": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome: electrophysiological study.", "content": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a rare compression neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve. Typical symptoms are burning pain and paresthesia in the toes and along the sole of the foot. The presence of Tinel's sign and objective sensory loss in the territory of any of the terminal branches of the posterior tibial nerve are diagnostically helpful. The terminal latency and sensory nerve conduction velocity in medial and lateral plantar nerves were studied in 20 normal controls and 21 cases of TTS in 17 patients. Prolonged terminal latency was observed in 11 cases, with TTS, while sensory nerve conduction abnormality (either absent nerve potential or slow sensory nerve conduction velocity) was found in 19. The sensory nerve conduction velocity in the lateral and medial plantar nerves is a superior objective diagnostic index of TTS.", "contents": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome: electrophysiological study. Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a rare compression neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve. Typical symptoms are burning pain and paresthesia in the toes and along the sole of the foot. The presence of Tinel's sign and objective sensory loss in the territory of any of the terminal branches of the posterior tibial nerve are diagnostically helpful. The terminal latency and sensory nerve conduction velocity in medial and lateral plantar nerves were studied in 20 normal controls and 21 cases of TTS in 17 patients. Prolonged terminal latency was observed in 11 cases, with TTS, while sensory nerve conduction abnormality (either absent nerve potential or slow sensory nerve conduction velocity) was found in 19. The sensory nerve conduction velocity in the lateral and medial plantar nerves is a superior objective diagnostic index of TTS.", "PMID": 443767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6315", "title": "Cerebral and retinal vascular complications of inflammatory bowel disease.", "content": "Recurrent retinal branch artery occlusions, carotid thromboembolism, cerebral venous thrombosis, transient brainstem ischemia, and massive brainstem and cerebral infarction complicated the course of inflammatory bowel disease in 5 patients. Three patients had ulcerative colitis and 2 had regional enteritis. The usual risk factors for stroke were absent. Neuropathological examination in 1 patient showed in situ thrombosis of small cerebral and brainstem arteries and veins. Coagulation studies showed thrombocytosis, short partial thromboplastin times, and elevation of fibrinogen and Factor VIII levels. Platelet counts and coagulation factors returned toward normal after control of intestinal inflammation in each of the 4 surviving patients. Inflammatory bowel disease can be accompanied by a hypercoagulable state that predisposes to stroke.", "contents": "Cerebral and retinal vascular complications of inflammatory bowel disease. Recurrent retinal branch artery occlusions, carotid thromboembolism, cerebral venous thrombosis, transient brainstem ischemia, and massive brainstem and cerebral infarction complicated the course of inflammatory bowel disease in 5 patients. Three patients had ulcerative colitis and 2 had regional enteritis. The usual risk factors for stroke were absent. Neuropathological examination in 1 patient showed in situ thrombosis of small cerebral and brainstem arteries and veins. Coagulation studies showed thrombocytosis, short partial thromboplastin times, and elevation of fibrinogen and Factor VIII levels. Platelet counts and coagulation factors returned toward normal after control of intestinal inflammation in each of the 4 surviving patients. Inflammatory bowel disease can be accompanied by a hypercoagulable state that predisposes to stroke.", "PMID": 443768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6316", "title": "Diffuse cerebral ischemia in the cat: III. Neuropathological sequelae of severe ischemia.", "content": "The neuropathological consequences of sever diffuse cerebral ischemia were investigated in an animal model in which postischemic alterations of regional brain blood flow and energy metabolism had been previously characterized. Pentobarbital-anesthetized cats received either 15 or 30 minutes of ischemia produced by basilar artery and bilateral carotid artery occlusions plus mild hypotension; this was followed by 60 to 90 minutes of normotensive recirculation. The brains were perfusion-fixed for light microscopy. Both insult durations resulted in unequivocal ischemic cell change affecting neurons of the cerebral neocortex, striatum, thalamus, and hippocampus and portions of the rostral brainstem. Animals with 30 minutes of prior ischemia differed from those with 15 minutes of ischemia in showing a more apparent regional accentuation of ischemic change in the parasagittal cortical gyri--the sites of previously documented focal postischemic heterogeneities of blood flow and metabolism. In other respects, however, the overall distribution and spectrum of severity of the ischemic alterations were similar for the two insult durations. These data support the view that significant permanent neuronal injury may result from a period of cerebral ischemia as brief as 15 minutes.", "contents": "Diffuse cerebral ischemia in the cat: III. Neuropathological sequelae of severe ischemia. The neuropathological consequences of sever diffuse cerebral ischemia were investigated in an animal model in which postischemic alterations of regional brain blood flow and energy metabolism had been previously characterized. Pentobarbital-anesthetized cats received either 15 or 30 minutes of ischemia produced by basilar artery and bilateral carotid artery occlusions plus mild hypotension; this was followed by 60 to 90 minutes of normotensive recirculation. The brains were perfusion-fixed for light microscopy. Both insult durations resulted in unequivocal ischemic cell change affecting neurons of the cerebral neocortex, striatum, thalamus, and hippocampus and portions of the rostral brainstem. Animals with 30 minutes of prior ischemia differed from those with 15 minutes of ischemia in showing a more apparent regional accentuation of ischemic change in the parasagittal cortical gyri--the sites of previously documented focal postischemic heterogeneities of blood flow and metabolism. In other respects, however, the overall distribution and spectrum of severity of the ischemic alterations were similar for the two insult durations. These data support the view that significant permanent neuronal injury may result from a period of cerebral ischemia as brief as 15 minutes.", "PMID": 443769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6317", "title": "Thalamic degeneration in X-chromosome--linked copper malabsorption.", "content": "Thalamic degeneration was present in 5 autopsied cases of X-chromosome-linked copper malabsorption (X-cLCM), Menkes' kinky hair disease. Among the thalamic nuclei, those in the formatio paraventricularis, intralamellaris, and extralamellaris were spared. The nuclei projecting to the granular cortices had severe neuronal depopulation. The thalamic nuclei that send axons to the agranular cortices were less often and less severely involved. The thalamic afferent system was intact except for degeneration of the red nucleus. Cerebral cortical lesions varied from case to case and usually were less marked than thalamic neuronal changes.", "contents": "Thalamic degeneration in X-chromosome--linked copper malabsorption. Thalamic degeneration was present in 5 autopsied cases of X-chromosome-linked copper malabsorption (X-cLCM), Menkes' kinky hair disease. Among the thalamic nuclei, those in the formatio paraventricularis, intralamellaris, and extralamellaris were spared. The nuclei projecting to the granular cortices had severe neuronal depopulation. The thalamic nuclei that send axons to the agranular cortices were less often and less severely involved. The thalamic afferent system was intact except for degeneration of the red nucleus. Cerebral cortical lesions varied from case to case and usually were less marked than thalamic neuronal changes.", "PMID": 443770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6318", "title": "Central somatosensory conduction time in comatose patients.", "content": "Somatosensory conduction time between the dorsal column nuclei and the cerebral cortex may be measured following median nerve stimulation by recording evoked potentials from both scalp and neck. Central conduction times were significantly increased relative to normal (5.6 +/ 0.5 msec) in 11 of 24 comatose patients. Results within 10 and 35 days of onset of coma were correlated with the final clinical outcome. Conduction times were independent of serum phenobarbital (0 to 630 mumol per liter) and of central body temperature (35.0 to 38.5 degrees C). Serial studies in coma demonstrated (1) short-term increases during temporary metabolic disorders, and (2) sustained increases with gradual recovery over many months, particularly after head injury.", "contents": "Central somatosensory conduction time in comatose patients. Somatosensory conduction time between the dorsal column nuclei and the cerebral cortex may be measured following median nerve stimulation by recording evoked potentials from both scalp and neck. Central conduction times were significantly increased relative to normal (5.6 +/ 0.5 msec) in 11 of 24 comatose patients. Results within 10 and 35 days of onset of coma were correlated with the final clinical outcome. Conduction times were independent of serum phenobarbital (0 to 630 mumol per liter) and of central body temperature (35.0 to 38.5 degrees C). Serial studies in coma demonstrated (1) short-term increases during temporary metabolic disorders, and (2) sustained increases with gradual recovery over many months, particularly after head injury.", "PMID": 443771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6319", "title": "Transfer factor is ineffective in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.", "content": "Sixty-six patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of transfer factor. A structured rating score of neurological function was recorded after each monthly administration of transfer factor or placebo. Statistical analysis of mean scores for all patients and for those with specific clinical abnormalities showed no significant difference between the two groups. There was no evidence of therapeutic value for transfer factor. During the observation period of nearly one year, more than two-thirds of the deterioration occurred in the first six months. Meaningful clinical trials of other potential therapeutic agents could probably be conducted within six months in double-blind crossover trials.", "contents": "Transfer factor is ineffective in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Sixty-six patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of transfer factor. A structured rating score of neurological function was recorded after each monthly administration of transfer factor or placebo. Statistical analysis of mean scores for all patients and for those with specific clinical abnormalities showed no significant difference between the two groups. There was no evidence of therapeutic value for transfer factor. During the observation period of nearly one year, more than two-thirds of the deterioration occurred in the first six months. Meaningful clinical trials of other potential therapeutic agents could probably be conducted within six months in double-blind crossover trials.", "PMID": 443772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6320", "title": "Dermatomyositis and toxoplasmosis.", "content": "In a patient with childhood dermatomyositis, high toxoplasma antibodies were found at the time of diagnosis. A direct immunofluorescence technique demonstrated active toxoplasmosis in the muscle biopsy. The response to treatment and follow-up in this patient suggest that toxoplasmosis could have caused the dermatomyositis.", "contents": "Dermatomyositis and toxoplasmosis. In a patient with childhood dermatomyositis, high toxoplasma antibodies were found at the time of diagnosis. A direct immunofluorescence technique demonstrated active toxoplasmosis in the muscle biopsy. The response to treatment and follow-up in this patient suggest that toxoplasmosis could have caused the dermatomyositis.", "PMID": 443773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6321", "title": "Atrial myxoma with intellectual decline and cerebral growths on CT scan.", "content": "A woman with left atrial myxoma had progressive disturbance of intellectual function, headache, and prominent constitutional symptoms. The absence of stroke is noteworthy. Multiple high-density lesions with contrast enhancement were seen by CT scan, suggesting metastatic neoplasms, hematomas, or hemorrhagic infarcts. Serial study showed progressive enlargement of the lesions. The only cerebral lesion examined histologically proved to be an organizing hematoma, originating most likely from adjacent small arteries found to be plugged by embolic myxoma.", "contents": "Atrial myxoma with intellectual decline and cerebral growths on CT scan. A woman with left atrial myxoma had progressive disturbance of intellectual function, headache, and prominent constitutional symptoms. The absence of stroke is noteworthy. Multiple high-density lesions with contrast enhancement were seen by CT scan, suggesting metastatic neoplasms, hematomas, or hemorrhagic infarcts. Serial study showed progressive enlargement of the lesions. The only cerebral lesion examined histologically proved to be an organizing hematoma, originating most likely from adjacent small arteries found to be plugged by embolic myxoma.", "PMID": 443774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6322", "title": "Genetic distances among the five tribal populations of Andhra, Pradesh, South India.", "content": "In this paper, data on genetic distances among five tribal populations ae given. Among the five tribes, Koya Dora, Raj Gond and Naikpod are autochthonous populations of the Deccan plateau whereas the other two groups, Pardhan and Lambadi are migrants. Kova Doras were sampled from five distant localities. Genetic markers typed are: A1A2B0, Rho(D) blood group systems glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, transferrin, haptoglobin, groupspecific component, haemoglobin, colour-vision deficiency and tastability to P. T. C. Using frequency data for the above nine genetic loci, genetic distances between the five endogamous tribes, and between the five groups of Koya Dora are calculated by adopting the statistical method of Edwards (1971). While genetic distances between Koya Dora, Raj Gond and Lambadi are minimal, the genetic distance between Pardhans and other tribal groups is maximum. Naikpods occupy an intermediate position. The closeness of Lambadi with Koya Dora and RAJ Gond can be regarded as coincidental. Interestingly, the differences in the genetic distance values between five Koya Dora groups are as great as the differences between the five endogamous tribal populations tested for the same loci. Genetic affinities of these tribal populations are discussed in relation to their ethnic origin migration and geographical isolation.", "contents": "Genetic distances among the five tribal populations of Andhra, Pradesh, South India. In this paper, data on genetic distances among five tribal populations ae given. Among the five tribes, Koya Dora, Raj Gond and Naikpod are autochthonous populations of the Deccan plateau whereas the other two groups, Pardhan and Lambadi are migrants. Kova Doras were sampled from five distant localities. Genetic markers typed are: A1A2B0, Rho(D) blood group systems glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, transferrin, haptoglobin, groupspecific component, haemoglobin, colour-vision deficiency and tastability to P. T. C. Using frequency data for the above nine genetic loci, genetic distances between the five endogamous tribes, and between the five groups of Koya Dora are calculated by adopting the statistical method of Edwards (1971). While genetic distances between Koya Dora, Raj Gond and Lambadi are minimal, the genetic distance between Pardhans and other tribal groups is maximum. Naikpods occupy an intermediate position. The closeness of Lambadi with Koya Dora and RAJ Gond can be regarded as coincidental. Interestingly, the differences in the genetic distance values between five Koya Dora groups are as great as the differences between the five endogamous tribal populations tested for the same loci. Genetic affinities of these tribal populations are discussed in relation to their ethnic origin migration and geographical isolation.", "PMID": 443777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6323", "title": "As to the influence of climate on head form.", "content": "In two quite different geographical regions--Mo\u00e7ambique and Hierro (an island of the Canaries)--observations have been made which point to an influence of climatic conditions on head dimensions: In localities of higher altitude or/and with colder climate maximum head breadth, minimum frontal breadth and auricular height proved to show higher dimensions compared with localities of milder (more hot) climate.", "contents": "As to the influence of climate on head form. In two quite different geographical regions--Mo\u00e7ambique and Hierro (an island of the Canaries)--observations have been made which point to an influence of climatic conditions on head dimensions: In localities of higher altitude or/and with colder climate maximum head breadth, minimum frontal breadth and auricular height proved to show higher dimensions compared with localities of milder (more hot) climate.", "PMID": 443778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6324", "title": "[\"Basic brown\", a too little considered iris color].", "content": "The eye colour is mainly effected by the two components melanin and structural blue of the iris stroma which generally are present in various mixtures respectively combinations. Are these components lacking the dark pigment epithelium can produce a so-called \"basic brown\". The exact distinction between \"brown\" and \"basic brown\" is without doubt of considerable value for anthropological as well as for genetical examinations of eye colours.", "contents": "[\"Basic brown\", a too little considered iris color]. The eye colour is mainly effected by the two components melanin and structural blue of the iris stroma which generally are present in various mixtures respectively combinations. Are these components lacking the dark pigment epithelium can produce a so-called \"basic brown\". The exact distinction between \"brown\" and \"basic brown\" is without doubt of considerable value for anthropological as well as for genetical examinations of eye colours.", "PMID": 443779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6325", "title": "[Lethal and mutagenic action of N-nitroso-N-methylbiuret on the producers of levorin, amphotericin and mycoheptin].", "content": "The lethal and mutagenic effect of N-nitrozo-N-methylbiuret (NMB) on the organisms producing levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin was studied. The mutagen effect depended on the dose, culture and physiological state of the spores. NMB had a low mutagenic effect on the levorin-producing organism characterized by high activity and genetic homogenicity with respect to the colony morphology and antibiotic production. As for the organisms producing amphotericin B and mycoheptin characterized by high genetic heterogenicity, significant variation of all the features studied was observed on their exposure to the mutagen. Inspite of diverse reaction of the organisms producing levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin to the effect of NMB mutants with increased antibiotic production were obtained from the three cultures. The lethal and mutagenic effect of NMB on the mycoheptin-producing organism depended on the process of the spore DNA replication. The spores during the DNA replication period were least sensitive to the lethal effect of the mutagen and most mutable with the respect to the colony morphology. For selection of highly active and stable strains exposure to NMB of the spores of the mycoheptin-producing organism during replication of DNA proved to be more effective than that of the spores during the lag-phase.", "contents": "[Lethal and mutagenic action of N-nitroso-N-methylbiuret on the producers of levorin, amphotericin and mycoheptin]. The lethal and mutagenic effect of N-nitrozo-N-methylbiuret (NMB) on the organisms producing levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin was studied. The mutagen effect depended on the dose, culture and physiological state of the spores. NMB had a low mutagenic effect on the levorin-producing organism characterized by high activity and genetic homogenicity with respect to the colony morphology and antibiotic production. As for the organisms producing amphotericin B and mycoheptin characterized by high genetic heterogenicity, significant variation of all the features studied was observed on their exposure to the mutagen. Inspite of diverse reaction of the organisms producing levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin to the effect of NMB mutants with increased antibiotic production were obtained from the three cultures. The lethal and mutagenic effect of NMB on the mycoheptin-producing organism depended on the process of the spore DNA replication. The spores during the DNA replication period were least sensitive to the lethal effect of the mutagen and most mutable with the respect to the colony morphology. For selection of highly active and stable strains exposure to NMB of the spores of the mycoheptin-producing organism during replication of DNA proved to be more effective than that of the spores during the lag-phase.", "PMID": 443781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6326", "title": "[Antibiotic sensitivity of the microflora isolated in ENT diseases].", "content": "Sensitivity of beta-hemolytic streptococci of group A, Streptococcus viridans, Staphylococcus aureus, epidermal staphylococci, pneumococci, Proteus and Ps. aeruginosa isolated in 1975-1978 from patients with tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis and other otorhinolaryngological diseases was studied with respect to 19 antibiotics. Data on comparison of the antibiotic sensitivity of the microflora isolated from the patients with otorhinolaryngological diseases in 1964-1974 and 1975-1978 are presented. It was shown that beta-hemolytic streptococci were highly sensitive to all the antibiotics tested except tetracycline. Among Streptococcus viridans the strains resistant to many antibiotics were more frequent than among beta-hemolytic streptococci. Most of the Staphylococcus aureus strains were sensitive to gentamycin, cephaloridin, oxacillin and resistant to the other antibiotics. The epidermal staphylococci were characterized by approximately the same antibiotic sensitivity as Staphylococcus aureus. Resistance of the predominating majority of the Pneumococcus strains to tetracycline was noted. Proteus and Ps. aeruginosa were resistant to all the antibiotics except aminoglycosides. The microflora isolated from the cases with otorhinolaryngological diseases in 1975-1978 were mainly characterized by lower antibiotic sensitivity than that isolated from the cases with the same diseases in 1964-1974. It is possible to suppose that the microorganisms isolated from the patients with otorhinolaringological diseases had no significant differences with respect to their antibiotic sensitivity from those isolated from the patients with other pathological processes.", "contents": "[Antibiotic sensitivity of the microflora isolated in ENT diseases]. Sensitivity of beta-hemolytic streptococci of group A, Streptococcus viridans, Staphylococcus aureus, epidermal staphylococci, pneumococci, Proteus and Ps. aeruginosa isolated in 1975-1978 from patients with tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis and other otorhinolaryngological diseases was studied with respect to 19 antibiotics. Data on comparison of the antibiotic sensitivity of the microflora isolated from the patients with otorhinolaryngological diseases in 1964-1974 and 1975-1978 are presented. It was shown that beta-hemolytic streptococci were highly sensitive to all the antibiotics tested except tetracycline. Among Streptococcus viridans the strains resistant to many antibiotics were more frequent than among beta-hemolytic streptococci. Most of the Staphylococcus aureus strains were sensitive to gentamycin, cephaloridin, oxacillin and resistant to the other antibiotics. The epidermal staphylococci were characterized by approximately the same antibiotic sensitivity as Staphylococcus aureus. Resistance of the predominating majority of the Pneumococcus strains to tetracycline was noted. Proteus and Ps. aeruginosa were resistant to all the antibiotics except aminoglycosides. The microflora isolated from the cases with otorhinolaryngological diseases in 1975-1978 were mainly characterized by lower antibiotic sensitivity than that isolated from the cases with the same diseases in 1964-1974. It is possible to suppose that the microorganisms isolated from the patients with otorhinolaringological diseases had no significant differences with respect to their antibiotic sensitivity from those isolated from the patients with other pathological processes.", "PMID": 443782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6327", "title": "[Effect of carminomycin on the energy metabolism of the liver in rats].", "content": "The effect of carminomycin on the liver energetic metabolism was studied experimentally on rats in dynamics after its intraperitoneal administration in a single LD50 and the therapeutic doses for a treatment course. It was found that changes in the rat liver tissues on the part of the energetic metabolism occurred irrespective of the antibiotic dose and the administration multiplicity. Mainly they were of reversible nature: the balance of consumption and resynthesis of the phosphate macroergs was impaired, the glycolytic processes increased, shifts in the activity of the enzymes of the pentose phosphate pathway of oxydation were observed. The level of the above changes was more pronounced when carminomycin was administered in LD50. The adrenal system played an important role in the mechanism of the shifts noted.", "contents": "[Effect of carminomycin on the energy metabolism of the liver in rats]. The effect of carminomycin on the liver energetic metabolism was studied experimentally on rats in dynamics after its intraperitoneal administration in a single LD50 and the therapeutic doses for a treatment course. It was found that changes in the rat liver tissues on the part of the energetic metabolism occurred irrespective of the antibiotic dose and the administration multiplicity. Mainly they were of reversible nature: the balance of consumption and resynthesis of the phosphate macroergs was impaired, the glycolytic processes increased, shifts in the activity of the enzymes of the pentose phosphate pathway of oxydation were observed. The level of the above changes was more pronounced when carminomycin was administered in LD50. The adrenal system played an important role in the mechanism of the shifts noted.", "PMID": 443783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6328", "title": "[Formation of broad-spectrum antibiotics by cultures of the genus Micromonospora].", "content": "Data on the study of antibiotic production by the representatives of Micromonospora and the use of ion exchange resins for intensification of screening antibiotic-producing organisms among Micromonospora are presented. It was found that out of 172 strains of Micromonospora tested 92 (53.5 per cent) cultures produced antibiotics, 18 of which were active against gramnegative bacteria. The use of carboxylic ion exchange resins at early microbiological stages of the screening provided an increase in the frequency of finding broad spectrum antibiotics from 10.4 to 19.7 per cent.", "contents": "[Formation of broad-spectrum antibiotics by cultures of the genus Micromonospora]. Data on the study of antibiotic production by the representatives of Micromonospora and the use of ion exchange resins for intensification of screening antibiotic-producing organisms among Micromonospora are presented. It was found that out of 172 strains of Micromonospora tested 92 (53.5 per cent) cultures produced antibiotics, 18 of which were active against gramnegative bacteria. The use of carboxylic ion exchange resins at early microbiological stages of the screening provided an increase in the frequency of finding broad spectrum antibiotics from 10.4 to 19.7 per cent.", "PMID": 443785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6329", "title": "[Postradiation effect of caffeine on the producer of mycoheptin, Streptoverticillium mycoheptinicum].", "content": "The modifying effect of caffeine on irradiated spores of Streptoverticillium mycoheptinicum, producing mycoheptin was found. Postradiation treatment of the strain O883: spores with caffeine resulted in decreased survival of the spores proportionally to the radiation dose increase and postradiation caffeine treatment. An increase in the frequency of the morphologically changed colonies, as well as the low and highly active variants with respect to mycoheptin production was observed. The effect may be explained by the fact that caffeine possibly inhibited the reparation process in the irradiated spores of the strain tested. The method of postradiation treatment of the spores of the mycoheptin-producing organism with caffeine which provided selection of highly active variants by the antibiotic production with the use of definite doses may be considered promising in selection of actinomycetes.", "contents": "[Postradiation effect of caffeine on the producer of mycoheptin, Streptoverticillium mycoheptinicum]. The modifying effect of caffeine on irradiated spores of Streptoverticillium mycoheptinicum, producing mycoheptin was found. Postradiation treatment of the strain O883: spores with caffeine resulted in decreased survival of the spores proportionally to the radiation dose increase and postradiation caffeine treatment. An increase in the frequency of the morphologically changed colonies, as well as the low and highly active variants with respect to mycoheptin production was observed. The effect may be explained by the fact that caffeine possibly inhibited the reparation process in the irradiated spores of the strain tested. The method of postradiation treatment of the spores of the mycoheptin-producing organism with caffeine which provided selection of highly active variants by the antibiotic production with the use of definite doses may be considered promising in selection of actinomycetes.", "PMID": 443786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6330", "title": "[Characteristics of hospital strains of Staphylococcus].", "content": "Some properties of hospital staphylococcal strains isolated from the patients with purulent postnatal mastitis were studied. It was found that all the strains of the phage type 80.81 widely distributed in the obstetric hospitals were polylysogenic and polyresistant to antibiotics. The resistance markers in most of the isolates were located on the plasmids. Elimination of the plasmids carrying the antibiotics resistance markers resulted in a simultaneous change in the strain lysogenic spectrum while the phage type and fermentative properties, such as production of plasmocoagulase, DNAase and lecithinase did not change. The capacity for hemotoxin production was lost simultaneously with antibiotic resistance in 1 out of 17 cultures tested.", "contents": "[Characteristics of hospital strains of Staphylococcus]. Some properties of hospital staphylococcal strains isolated from the patients with purulent postnatal mastitis were studied. It was found that all the strains of the phage type 80.81 widely distributed in the obstetric hospitals were polylysogenic and polyresistant to antibiotics. The resistance markers in most of the isolates were located on the plasmids. Elimination of the plasmids carrying the antibiotics resistance markers resulted in a simultaneous change in the strain lysogenic spectrum while the phage type and fermentative properties, such as production of plasmocoagulase, DNAase and lecithinase did not change. The capacity for hemotoxin production was lost simultaneously with antibiotic resistance in 1 out of 17 cultures tested.", "PMID": 443787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6331", "title": "[Sensitivity to antibiotics and antibacterial preparations of conditionally pathogenic bacteria isolated from patients with gastrointestinal tract dysfunctions].", "content": "Sensitivity of 690 cultures of the conditionally pathogenic microbes of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonadaceae to 17 drugs was studied with the agar diffusion method. It was found that 98.6 per cent of the cultures had multiple resistance to 2--10 drugs. Most of the cultures were resistant to erythromycin, carbenicillin and ampicillin. Different species of the conditionally pathogenic microorganisms were resistant to different numbers of the drugs. Thus, Ps. aeruginosa cultures were resistant to 6--10 drugs, the cultures of Citrobacter were resistant to 3--8 drugs and the cultures of Kl. pneumonia were resistant to 2--5 drugs. Levomycetin, tetracycline, streptomycin and biseptol proved to be the most active antibacterial drugs.", "contents": "[Sensitivity to antibiotics and antibacterial preparations of conditionally pathogenic bacteria isolated from patients with gastrointestinal tract dysfunctions]. Sensitivity of 690 cultures of the conditionally pathogenic microbes of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonadaceae to 17 drugs was studied with the agar diffusion method. It was found that 98.6 per cent of the cultures had multiple resistance to 2--10 drugs. Most of the cultures were resistant to erythromycin, carbenicillin and ampicillin. Different species of the conditionally pathogenic microorganisms were resistant to different numbers of the drugs. Thus, Ps. aeruginosa cultures were resistant to 6--10 drugs, the cultures of Citrobacter were resistant to 3--8 drugs and the cultures of Kl. pneumonia were resistant to 2--5 drugs. Levomycetin, tetracycline, streptomycin and biseptol proved to be the most active antibacterial drugs.", "PMID": 443788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6332", "title": "[Antimicrobial action spectrum of triterpene and steroid glycosides].", "content": "Antimicrobial activity of 9 triterpene glycosides of the plant and animal origin was studied. It was found that saponins inhibited the fungal growth to different extents and had no activity against grampositive and gramnegative bacteria. Triterpene glycosides of the animal origin, i.e. holoturins A and B, stichoposids A and C had the most pronounced antifungal activity as compared to the saponins isolated from plants. Changes in the length of the carbon chain from 2 to 6 monosugars had no significant effect on the activity of the triterpeneglycosides studied.", "contents": "[Antimicrobial action spectrum of triterpene and steroid glycosides]. Antimicrobial activity of 9 triterpene glycosides of the plant and animal origin was studied. It was found that saponins inhibited the fungal growth to different extents and had no activity against grampositive and gramnegative bacteria. Triterpene glycosides of the animal origin, i.e. holoturins A and B, stichoposids A and C had the most pronounced antifungal activity as compared to the saponins isolated from plants. Changes in the length of the carbon chain from 2 to 6 monosugars had no significant effect on the activity of the triterpeneglycosides studied.", "PMID": 443789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6333", "title": "[Effect of various kanamycin dosage forms in experimental nonpenetrating infected injuries to the cornea].", "content": "Animals with experimental non-penetrating local wound of the cornea of the type of erosion infected with highly virulent strains of Staph. aureus were treated at various periods, i.e. in 15 minutes, 2, 6 and 9 hours with kanamycin solution (10000 gamma/ml) and kanamycin imbibized films. The therapeutic effect of the kanamycin solution on the non-penetrating infected wound of the cornea was higher when the treatment was started at earlier periods after infection with Staph. aureus. At later periods when the inflammatory process was highly developed the effect of the kanamycin solution on the wound was lower. As for the use of the kanamycin films the regularity was the reverse: they had a higher therapeutic effect in pronounced inflammation and highly developed infection of the eye.", "contents": "[Effect of various kanamycin dosage forms in experimental nonpenetrating infected injuries to the cornea]. Animals with experimental non-penetrating local wound of the cornea of the type of erosion infected with highly virulent strains of Staph. aureus were treated at various periods, i.e. in 15 minutes, 2, 6 and 9 hours with kanamycin solution (10000 gamma/ml) and kanamycin imbibized films. The therapeutic effect of the kanamycin solution on the non-penetrating infected wound of the cornea was higher when the treatment was started at earlier periods after infection with Staph. aureus. At later periods when the inflammatory process was highly developed the effect of the kanamycin solution on the wound was lower. As for the use of the kanamycin films the regularity was the reverse: they had a higher therapeutic effect in pronounced inflammation and highly developed infection of the eye.", "PMID": 443790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6334", "title": "[Effect of tetracycline group antibiotics on the barrier properties of the small intestine epithelium].", "content": "The effect of 5 tetracyclines on the barrier and transport properties of the small intestine epithelium was studied. The barrier properties were estimated by a change in the ionic selectivity and conductivity of the epithelium, as well as by enterocyte linkage. The current of the short circuit served the characteristics of the Na transport system state. Dimethylchlortetracycline, methacycline and oxytetracycline in concentrations of 10(-7) g/ml decreased the epithelium conductivity and increased the cell linkage. Tetracycline and methacycline in concentrations of 10(-9) g/ml had an analogous effect. The effect was observed 10--20 minutes after the start of incubation with the substance. No effect on the current of the short circuit was observed within the concentrations of 10(-4) to 10(-9) g/ml. It is suggested that the decreased conductivity and increased linkage are due to adsorption of the tetracycline molecules in the region of close cell contacts.", "contents": "[Effect of tetracycline group antibiotics on the barrier properties of the small intestine epithelium]. The effect of 5 tetracyclines on the barrier and transport properties of the small intestine epithelium was studied. The barrier properties were estimated by a change in the ionic selectivity and conductivity of the epithelium, as well as by enterocyte linkage. The current of the short circuit served the characteristics of the Na transport system state. Dimethylchlortetracycline, methacycline and oxytetracycline in concentrations of 10(-7) g/ml decreased the epithelium conductivity and increased the cell linkage. Tetracycline and methacycline in concentrations of 10(-9) g/ml had an analogous effect. The effect was observed 10--20 minutes after the start of incubation with the substance. No effect on the current of the short circuit was observed within the concentrations of 10(-4) to 10(-9) g/ml. It is suggested that the decreased conductivity and increased linkage are due to adsorption of the tetracycline molecules in the region of close cell contacts.", "PMID": 443791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6335", "title": "[Biological properties of clinical staphylococcal strains with a varying number of antibiotic resistance markers].", "content": "The study of a number of biological properties of 1881 clinical strains of Staphylococcus showed that in the group of the antibiotic resistant staphylococci there was a tendency for different manifestation of some biological properties depending on the number of the resistance determinants. The staphylococcal strains resistant to 5--7 antibiotics differed from those resistant to a less number of the drugs by greater manifestation of the pathogenicity properties: lecithinase, hyaluronidase and hemolytic activity.", "contents": "[Biological properties of clinical staphylococcal strains with a varying number of antibiotic resistance markers]. The study of a number of biological properties of 1881 clinical strains of Staphylococcus showed that in the group of the antibiotic resistant staphylococci there was a tendency for different manifestation of some biological properties depending on the number of the resistance determinants. The staphylococcal strains resistant to 5--7 antibiotics differed from those resistant to a less number of the drugs by greater manifestation of the pathogenicity properties: lecithinase, hyaluronidase and hemolytic activity.", "PMID": 443793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6336", "title": "[Use of paper indicator discs for determining the minimal inhibitory concentration of antibiotics].", "content": "Sensitivity of clinical strains of Staphylococcus and some Enterobacteriaceae to a number of widely used antibiotics was compared simultaneously with the use of two methods, i. e. the agar diffusion method and the method of serial dilutions. Regularities in distribution of the staphylococcal strains according to their sensitivity to antibiotics, such as erythromycin, benzylpenicillin, levomycetin and others were also studied with respect to every year using indicator paper discs. Interrelation observed during the comparison of the microbial sensitivity with the use of the two assay methods provided elaboration of the criteria for classification of the strains as \"resistant\" or \"sensitive\". The differentiation boarder for these two groups was determined according to the principle of the assay error minimization. A necessity of using standard dry media for specification of individual characteristics of various drugs in estimation of the microbial sensitivity to them by the agar diffusion method is emphasized.", "contents": "[Use of paper indicator discs for determining the minimal inhibitory concentration of antibiotics]. Sensitivity of clinical strains of Staphylococcus and some Enterobacteriaceae to a number of widely used antibiotics was compared simultaneously with the use of two methods, i. e. the agar diffusion method and the method of serial dilutions. Regularities in distribution of the staphylococcal strains according to their sensitivity to antibiotics, such as erythromycin, benzylpenicillin, levomycetin and others were also studied with respect to every year using indicator paper discs. Interrelation observed during the comparison of the microbial sensitivity with the use of the two assay methods provided elaboration of the criteria for classification of the strains as \"resistant\" or \"sensitive\". The differentiation boarder for these two groups was determined according to the principle of the assay error minimization. A necessity of using standard dry media for specification of individual characteristics of various drugs in estimation of the microbial sensitivity to them by the agar diffusion method is emphasized.", "PMID": 443794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6337", "title": "[Effect of a DNA-rubomycin complex on the molecular mass, radiosensitivity and reparation of gamma-induced single-stranded breaks in the DNA of sarcoma 180 cells].", "content": "The use of the DNA-rubomycin complex resulted in appearance of one-thread breaks (OB) in DNA and markedly increased the number of the DNA OB determined immediately after irradiation. The DNA-rubomycin complex decreased the volume of the repaired OB and induced postreparation degradation of the one-bond DNA (oDNA) in the sarcoma 180 cells. The effect of the decrease in the molecular mass of the oDNA 6 hours after the irradiation to the level of the initial damage is probably in favour of the fact that degradation takes place in the areas of the repaired breaks. The data indicated that the viscosimetric method for the analysis of the OB in DNA may be promising in estimation of the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy of solid tumors.", "contents": "[Effect of a DNA-rubomycin complex on the molecular mass, radiosensitivity and reparation of gamma-induced single-stranded breaks in the DNA of sarcoma 180 cells]. The use of the DNA-rubomycin complex resulted in appearance of one-thread breaks (OB) in DNA and markedly increased the number of the DNA OB determined immediately after irradiation. The DNA-rubomycin complex decreased the volume of the repaired OB and induced postreparation degradation of the one-bond DNA (oDNA) in the sarcoma 180 cells. The effect of the decrease in the molecular mass of the oDNA 6 hours after the irradiation to the level of the initial damage is probably in favour of the fact that degradation takes place in the areas of the repaired breaks. The data indicated that the viscosimetric method for the analysis of the OB in DNA may be promising in estimation of the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy of solid tumors.", "PMID": 443795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6338", "title": "Pulmonary circulation pressures in surgical patients. The use of the Swan-Ganz catheter.", "content": "Experiences with the Swan-Ganz catheter in 'high risk' surgical intensive care patients are described. After description of the catheter and catheterization technique, normal values from the literature are presented. Attention is drawn to the occurrence of artefacts in the pressure curve, which can lead to the inference of faulty results from the measurements. Attention is also drawn to the effect of intrathoracic pressure on pulmonary vascular pressures. A review of possible complications is given, with recommendations how these may be avoided or at least reduced to a minimum. The authors' material is used to demonstrate the value of the catheter, showing that the CVP is not always a trustworthy parameter for hemodynamic monitoring. The conclusion is drawn that the 'high risk' patient on the surgical intensive care unit gains from the use of the Swan-Ganz catheter.", "contents": "Pulmonary circulation pressures in surgical patients. The use of the Swan-Ganz catheter. Experiences with the Swan-Ganz catheter in 'high risk' surgical intensive care patients are described. After description of the catheter and catheterization technique, normal values from the literature are presented. Attention is drawn to the occurrence of artefacts in the pressure curve, which can lead to the inference of faulty results from the measurements. Attention is also drawn to the effect of intrathoracic pressure on pulmonary vascular pressures. A review of possible complications is given, with recommendations how these may be avoided or at least reduced to a minimum. The authors' material is used to demonstrate the value of the catheter, showing that the CVP is not always a trustworthy parameter for hemodynamic monitoring. The conclusion is drawn that the 'high risk' patient on the surgical intensive care unit gains from the use of the Swan-Ganz catheter.", "PMID": 443826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6339", "title": "The curative treatment of rectal cancer at the Cleveland Clinic.", "content": "This article reviews the policy of the Cleveland Clinic regarding the curative treatment of rectal cancer. The use of Turnbull's no-touch technic permits avoidance of peroperative tumor seeding via the lumen of the bowel or the lymphovascular pedicle. The postoperative accumulation of blood in the presacral space is precluded by leaving the peritoneum of the pelvis open and by irrigation and suction via sump drains. The authors review the different factors influencing the choice of treatment.", "contents": "The curative treatment of rectal cancer at the Cleveland Clinic. This article reviews the policy of the Cleveland Clinic regarding the curative treatment of rectal cancer. The use of Turnbull's no-touch technic permits avoidance of peroperative tumor seeding via the lumen of the bowel or the lymphovascular pedicle. The postoperative accumulation of blood in the presacral space is precluded by leaving the peritoneum of the pelvis open and by irrigation and suction via sump drains. The authors review the different factors influencing the choice of treatment.", "PMID": 443827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6340", "title": "Venous hypertension of the hand caused by subcutaneous arteriovenous fistulae established for hemodialysis.", "content": "Side-to-side arteriovenous fistulae established in patients on chronic intermittent hemodialysis can cause venous hypertension. This gives rise to pain, pigmentation and trophic ulcers. Four patients with these complications are described. In three patients, with a fistula between the radial artery and the cephalic vein, the thumb and the second and third fingers were affected. In the fourth patient, with a fistula between the ulnar artery and the basilic vein, the fourth and fifth fingers were involved. This finding suggests segmental venous drainage of the hand. All patients were cured by ligation of the distal vein. An end-of-vein-to-side-of-artery fistula does not cause the complication described, and for this reason is to be preferred.", "contents": "Venous hypertension of the hand caused by subcutaneous arteriovenous fistulae established for hemodialysis. Side-to-side arteriovenous fistulae established in patients on chronic intermittent hemodialysis can cause venous hypertension. This gives rise to pain, pigmentation and trophic ulcers. Four patients with these complications are described. In three patients, with a fistula between the radial artery and the cephalic vein, the thumb and the second and third fingers were affected. In the fourth patient, with a fistula between the ulnar artery and the basilic vein, the fourth and fifth fingers were involved. This finding suggests segmental venous drainage of the hand. All patients were cured by ligation of the distal vein. An end-of-vein-to-side-of-artery fistula does not cause the complication described, and for this reason is to be preferred.", "PMID": 443828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6341", "title": "Two extensive giant-cell tumours of the proximal humerus treated by resection-reconstruction or excochleation-cryosurgery.", "content": "Giant-cell tumours of bone occur infrequently. Recurrence is often observed following excochleation. Due to the fact that most of these tumours are located in the epiphysis of long bones, treatment of extensive tumours with preservation of joint function usually is troublesome. Two patients are presented: one underwent resection and implantation of an endoprosthesis, the other one excochleation in combination with cryosurgery.", "contents": "Two extensive giant-cell tumours of the proximal humerus treated by resection-reconstruction or excochleation-cryosurgery. Giant-cell tumours of bone occur infrequently. Recurrence is often observed following excochleation. Due to the fact that most of these tumours are located in the epiphysis of long bones, treatment of extensive tumours with preservation of joint function usually is troublesome. Two patients are presented: one underwent resection and implantation of an endoprosthesis, the other one excochleation in combination with cryosurgery.", "PMID": 443829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6342", "title": "Critical evaluation of low-dose heparin in laryngectomy.", "content": "In a clinical trial thromboembolic prophylaxis with subcutaneous low-dose heparin was given to 20 patients admitted for surgery on the larynx. All patients (40 totally) had a malignancy. The study was not primarily directed on the antithrombotic effect, but on complication factors. In the control group pulmonary embolism was found four times, but not in the group of patients receiving heparin. No increase of blood loss in the heparin group appeared, although this group included very difficult operations. No complications were seen to arise from the injections of the heparin.", "contents": "Critical evaluation of low-dose heparin in laryngectomy. In a clinical trial thromboembolic prophylaxis with subcutaneous low-dose heparin was given to 20 patients admitted for surgery on the larynx. All patients (40 totally) had a malignancy. The study was not primarily directed on the antithrombotic effect, but on complication factors. In the control group pulmonary embolism was found four times, but not in the group of patients receiving heparin. No increase of blood loss in the heparin group appeared, although this group included very difficult operations. No complications were seen to arise from the injections of the heparin.", "PMID": 443830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6343", "title": "Epidermal dystrophy. Occurrence after psoriasis therapy with psoralen and long-wave ultraviolet light.", "content": "Focal dystrophy of epidermal cells has been recognized in about half of 37 patients treated with psoralen and long-wave ultraviolet radiation (PUVA) for psoriasis. This lesion appeared in many patients by the end of the clearing phase of therapy and was present to a similar degree one year after the beginning of the treatment. It is probable that most such changes are transient, but the appearance suggests the possibility that cells have undergone somatic mutation that potentially could be dangerous.", "contents": "Epidermal dystrophy. Occurrence after psoriasis therapy with psoralen and long-wave ultraviolet light. Focal dystrophy of epidermal cells has been recognized in about half of 37 patients treated with psoralen and long-wave ultraviolet radiation (PUVA) for psoriasis. This lesion appeared in many patients by the end of the clearing phase of therapy and was present to a similar degree one year after the beginning of the treatment. It is probable that most such changes are transient, but the appearance suggests the possibility that cells have undergone somatic mutation that potentially could be dangerous.", "PMID": 443831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6344", "title": "Cryosurgery of porokeratosis plantaris discreta.", "content": "Porokeratosis plantaris discreta is a distinct clinical and pathological entity often resistant to conservative management. Twenty-one lesions of porokeratosis plantaris discreta were treated cyrosurgically in 11 patients. Removal of the blister roof two weeks after cryosurgery with retreatment of any residual lesion proved an effective method for removal of such lesions without scarring. A cure rate of 90.5% was achieved using this technique.", "contents": "Cryosurgery of porokeratosis plantaris discreta. Porokeratosis plantaris discreta is a distinct clinical and pathological entity often resistant to conservative management. Twenty-one lesions of porokeratosis plantaris discreta were treated cyrosurgically in 11 patients. Removal of the blister roof two weeks after cryosurgery with retreatment of any residual lesion proved an effective method for removal of such lesions without scarring. A cure rate of 90.5% was achieved using this technique.", "PMID": 443832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6345", "title": "Steroid-induced acanthosis nigricans in dermatomyositis.", "content": "Acanthosis nigricans of the groin, axillae, and neck developed in a patient on long-term steroid therapy for dermatomyositis after eight years. The dermatosis resolved spontaneously ten years after the steroid use had been discontinued. Review of three personal cases and the literature suggests that acanthosis nigricans may have a hormonal basis.", "contents": "Steroid-induced acanthosis nigricans in dermatomyositis. Acanthosis nigricans of the groin, axillae, and neck developed in a patient on long-term steroid therapy for dermatomyositis after eight years. The dermatosis resolved spontaneously ten years after the steroid use had been discontinued. Review of three personal cases and the literature suggests that acanthosis nigricans may have a hormonal basis.", "PMID": 443833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6346", "title": "Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome in an adult with Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "An elderly man with Hodgkin's disease who was receiving multiple drug chemotherapy became septic and a wide spread bullous eruption developed. Intraepidermal cleavage on skin biopsy supported a diagnosis of the staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) type of toxic epidermal necrolysis. Blood cultures confirmed a staphylococcal septicemia. Occurrence of this syndrome in an adult is unusual. A review of the literature on SSSS indicates an increased mortality when adults are compared with children with this syndrome.", "contents": "Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome in an adult with Hodgkin's disease. An elderly man with Hodgkin's disease who was receiving multiple drug chemotherapy became septic and a wide spread bullous eruption developed. Intraepidermal cleavage on skin biopsy supported a diagnosis of the staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) type of toxic epidermal necrolysis. Blood cultures confirmed a staphylococcal septicemia. Occurrence of this syndrome in an adult is unusual. A review of the literature on SSSS indicates an increased mortality when adults are compared with children with this syndrome.", "PMID": 443834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6347", "title": "Insulin allergy. Report of a case with delayed local reaction.", "content": "A diabetic patient had delayed local cutaneous allergic reactions to insulin. We describe his lesion, biopsy findings, and treatment. Allergic reactions to insulin may be immediate local or systemic, which are lgE-mediated. Recommended management of local reactions is to use a single-peak pork insulin of the insulin zinc suspension series. Progressive immediate local reactions may herald the onset of systemic reactions. Hospitalization and desensitization to insulin may be required for systemic allergic reactions to insulin.", "contents": "Insulin allergy. Report of a case with delayed local reaction. A diabetic patient had delayed local cutaneous allergic reactions to insulin. We describe his lesion, biopsy findings, and treatment. Allergic reactions to insulin may be immediate local or systemic, which are lgE-mediated. Recommended management of local reactions is to use a single-peak pork insulin of the insulin zinc suspension series. Progressive immediate local reactions may herald the onset of systemic reactions. Hospitalization and desensitization to insulin may be required for systemic allergic reactions to insulin.", "PMID": 443835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6348", "title": "Hydrofluoric acid burns. A report of a case and review of the literature.", "content": "Burns caused by exposure to hydrofluoric acid are occurring with ever-increasing frequency due to the wide use of this acid in industry and research. Such burns are characterized by severe progressive tissue destruction and excruciating pain resulting from the unique properties of the freely dissociable fluoride ion. The subungual tissues are especially susceptible to the destructive effects of hydrofluoric acid. The proper treatment of hydrofluoric acid burns requires prompt recognition and the institution of specific therapeutic measures by the attending physician.", "contents": "Hydrofluoric acid burns. A report of a case and review of the literature. Burns caused by exposure to hydrofluoric acid are occurring with ever-increasing frequency due to the wide use of this acid in industry and research. Such burns are characterized by severe progressive tissue destruction and excruciating pain resulting from the unique properties of the freely dissociable fluoride ion. The subungual tissues are especially susceptible to the destructive effects of hydrofluoric acid. The proper treatment of hydrofluoric acid burns requires prompt recognition and the institution of specific therapeutic measures by the attending physician.", "PMID": 443836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6349", "title": "Mal de Meleda treated with 13-cis retinoic acid.", "content": "Identical twins with mal de Meleda, a rare genodermatosis, displayed the characteristic \"glove and sock\" hyperkeratosis, hyperhidrosis, and malodor. Their parents, who are first cousins, are unaffected and originated from Calabria, Italy, which is not far from Meleda (Mljet). The disorder is probably transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait. Previous therapy with grenz rays, topical preparations of adrenocorticosteroids, lactic acid, retinoic acid, and bland emollients had been unsuccessful. One of the twins was treated with 13-cis retinoic acid taken by mouth for 16 weeks with dramatic improvement. The major adverse effect was cheilitis, which did not force discontinuation of the treatment.", "contents": "Mal de Meleda treated with 13-cis retinoic acid. Identical twins with mal de Meleda, a rare genodermatosis, displayed the characteristic \"glove and sock\" hyperkeratosis, hyperhidrosis, and malodor. Their parents, who are first cousins, are unaffected and originated from Calabria, Italy, which is not far from Meleda (Mljet). The disorder is probably transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait. Previous therapy with grenz rays, topical preparations of adrenocorticosteroids, lactic acid, retinoic acid, and bland emollients had been unsuccessful. One of the twins was treated with 13-cis retinoic acid taken by mouth for 16 weeks with dramatic improvement. The major adverse effect was cheilitis, which did not force discontinuation of the treatment.", "PMID": 443837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6350", "title": "Botryomycosis. A bacterial cause of mycetoma.", "content": "Botryomycosis is a chronic, granulomatous, bacterial infection in which grains are produced. Clinically, it may not be distinguished from a mycetoma of fungal origin. A case is reported in which the causative organisms were Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.", "contents": "Botryomycosis. A bacterial cause of mycetoma. Botryomycosis is a chronic, granulomatous, bacterial infection in which grains are produced. Clinically, it may not be distinguished from a mycetoma of fungal origin. A case is reported in which the causative organisms were Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.", "PMID": 443838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6351", "title": "Wells' syndrome. Recurrent granulomatous dermatitis with eosinophilia.", "content": "Two cases of granulomatous dermatitis with eosinophilla (Wells' syndrome) are reported. With Wells' original four cases, these two cases define a distinctive dermatosis with onset as cellulitis and formation of solid edema and either final spontaneous resolution or resolution with steroid therapy. Microscopic study showed diffuse tissue eosinophilia and fibrinoid flame figures, evolution of associated focal necrobiosis, and formation of focal microgranulomas associated with eosinophils. Biopsy of muscle and fascia showed comparable fasciitis and eosinophilic myositis. Immunofluorescence in one case disclosed fibrin in the dermis and lgM, lgA, and C3 in the blood vessels of the muscle. Recurrences of the lesions often appeared to be related to drug administration or surgery.", "contents": "Wells' syndrome. Recurrent granulomatous dermatitis with eosinophilia. Two cases of granulomatous dermatitis with eosinophilla (Wells' syndrome) are reported. With Wells' original four cases, these two cases define a distinctive dermatosis with onset as cellulitis and formation of solid edema and either final spontaneous resolution or resolution with steroid therapy. Microscopic study showed diffuse tissue eosinophilia and fibrinoid flame figures, evolution of associated focal necrobiosis, and formation of focal microgranulomas associated with eosinophils. Biopsy of muscle and fascia showed comparable fasciitis and eosinophilic myositis. Immunofluorescence in one case disclosed fibrin in the dermis and lgM, lgA, and C3 in the blood vessels of the muscle. Recurrences of the lesions often appeared to be related to drug administration or surgery.", "PMID": 443839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6352", "title": "Erythema multiforme as a complication of BCG scarification technique.", "content": "Erythema multiforme occurred in a 31-year-old woman as a complication of BCG immunotherapy administered by scarification for a Clark's level IV malignant melanoma. This is an unusual complication of the scarification technique.", "contents": "Erythema multiforme as a complication of BCG scarification technique. Erythema multiforme occurred in a 31-year-old woman as a complication of BCG immunotherapy administered by scarification for a Clark's level IV malignant melanoma. This is an unusual complication of the scarification technique.", "PMID": 443840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6353", "title": "Quantitative analysis of lymphoid cells in myocosis fungoides, S\u00e9zary's syndrome and parapsoriasis en plaques.", "content": "Semi-thin sections are superior to paraffin sections for differentiating lymphoid cells. To test their possible significance in the diagnosis of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, the following investigation was made: A quantitative analysis of lymphoid cells in the cellular infiltrate of cutaneous lesions of mycosis fungoides (11 cases), S\u00e9zary's syndrome (9 cases), and parapsoriasis en plaques (14 cases) was made using semi-thin sections of epon-embedded biopsies. As controls biopsies of patch test reactions, contact dermatitis, initial psoriasis, and erythema chronicum migrans were studied. A high percentage of Lutzner (S\u00e9zary) cells was consistently found in S\u00e9zary's syndrome and occasionally in parapsoriasis en plaques only. In mycosis fungoides lymphocytoid cells with the nuclei less dense than in normal lymphocytes were predominant. In most tumorous lesions of mycosis fungoides and of S\u00e9zary's syndrome an increased percentage of immunoblasts was noted. Normal lymphocytes were the most frequent cell type in parapsoriasis en plaques as well as in the controls. These findings may prove helpful in the diagnosis of problem cases, for which the use of semi-thin sections is recommended.", "contents": "Quantitative analysis of lymphoid cells in myocosis fungoides, S\u00e9zary's syndrome and parapsoriasis en plaques. Semi-thin sections are superior to paraffin sections for differentiating lymphoid cells. To test their possible significance in the diagnosis of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, the following investigation was made: A quantitative analysis of lymphoid cells in the cellular infiltrate of cutaneous lesions of mycosis fungoides (11 cases), S\u00e9zary's syndrome (9 cases), and parapsoriasis en plaques (14 cases) was made using semi-thin sections of epon-embedded biopsies. As controls biopsies of patch test reactions, contact dermatitis, initial psoriasis, and erythema chronicum migrans were studied. A high percentage of Lutzner (S\u00e9zary) cells was consistently found in S\u00e9zary's syndrome and occasionally in parapsoriasis en plaques only. In mycosis fungoides lymphocytoid cells with the nuclei less dense than in normal lymphocytes were predominant. In most tumorous lesions of mycosis fungoides and of S\u00e9zary's syndrome an increased percentage of immunoblasts was noted. Normal lymphocytes were the most frequent cell type in parapsoriasis en plaques as well as in the controls. These findings may prove helpful in the diagnosis of problem cases, for which the use of semi-thin sections is recommended.", "PMID": 443858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6354", "title": "Melanin granula distribution and phagocytosis in psoriasis vulgaris after PUVA therapy.", "content": "Melanin-containing basal cells of the epidermis, melanin-containing macrophages, mast cells, eosinophilic granulocytes and plasma cells were quantitatively investigated with the purpose of gaining an understanding of the quantitative changes in these cell systems under PUVA therapy. This patients have been exposed to solar radiation some weeks or months before the begin of the PUVA-treatment. Different dying-processes were used to investigate biopsy samples of psoriatically healthy and psoriatically affected skin, from 28 patients before, and 39 patients after PUVA therapy, using a 2 d micrometer with a field of view of 0.1 mm2. Altogether more than 9,000 fields of view have been analysed. The average radiation amount was 12 irradiations with an average total energy of 21.5 J/cm2. It was found that the count of granula-containing basal layer cells decreases in the psoriatic \"healthy\" region due to pigment incontinence and increase in the psoriatically affected region. The subepidermal melanin-containing phagocytes increase in both regions to a similar extent. In the case of the mast cells there was no trend to degranulation. The count of eosinophilic granulocytes and plasma cells was unchanged.", "contents": "Melanin granula distribution and phagocytosis in psoriasis vulgaris after PUVA therapy. Melanin-containing basal cells of the epidermis, melanin-containing macrophages, mast cells, eosinophilic granulocytes and plasma cells were quantitatively investigated with the purpose of gaining an understanding of the quantitative changes in these cell systems under PUVA therapy. This patients have been exposed to solar radiation some weeks or months before the begin of the PUVA-treatment. Different dying-processes were used to investigate biopsy samples of psoriatically healthy and psoriatically affected skin, from 28 patients before, and 39 patients after PUVA therapy, using a 2 d micrometer with a field of view of 0.1 mm2. Altogether more than 9,000 fields of view have been analysed. The average radiation amount was 12 irradiations with an average total energy of 21.5 J/cm2. It was found that the count of granula-containing basal layer cells decreases in the psoriatic \"healthy\" region due to pigment incontinence and increase in the psoriatically affected region. The subepidermal melanin-containing phagocytes increase in both regions to a similar extent. In the case of the mast cells there was no trend to degranulation. The count of eosinophilic granulocytes and plasma cells was unchanged.", "PMID": 443859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6355", "title": "Human malignant melanoma antigenic properties of phenol water extracts.", "content": "Tumor-associated antigens were demonstrated in phenol water extracts of human malignant melanoma by migration tests with leukocytes from melanoma patients and controls: in 25 out of 60 melanoma patients weak reactivity was observed, usually stimulation of leukocyte migration, while leukocytes from 37 controls were negative in 100 tests. The frequency of positive reactions did not differ significantly in patients with and without metastases. Humoral antibodies against antigens of phenol water extracts were not detectable in melanoma patients. Rabbits did not produce antibodies against tumor typical substances after immunization with phenol water extracts. Tumor associated antigens of phenol water extracts are presumably not targets of antitumor immune reactions that can influence the clinical course.", "contents": "Human malignant melanoma antigenic properties of phenol water extracts. Tumor-associated antigens were demonstrated in phenol water extracts of human malignant melanoma by migration tests with leukocytes from melanoma patients and controls: in 25 out of 60 melanoma patients weak reactivity was observed, usually stimulation of leukocyte migration, while leukocytes from 37 controls were negative in 100 tests. The frequency of positive reactions did not differ significantly in patients with and without metastases. Humoral antibodies against antigens of phenol water extracts were not detectable in melanoma patients. Rabbits did not produce antibodies against tumor typical substances after immunization with phenol water extracts. Tumor associated antigens of phenol water extracts are presumably not targets of antitumor immune reactions that can influence the clinical course.", "PMID": 443860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6356", "title": "Effect of antiandrogens on the binding of androgen to cytosol and nuclei of hamster sebaceous glands.", "content": "Cyproterone acetate, R 2956, Ro 7-2340 and Sch 13521 in the daily dose of 8 mg injected intramuscularly to castrated adult hamsters for 3 weeks were all found to significantly antagonize the stimulatory effect of exogenous testosterone propionate (80 microgram im, every other day) on the sebaceous gland as well as the prostate and the seminal vesicle. With a view to clarifying the mechanisms of action of these antiandrogenic drugs on the sebaceous gland, the present author carried out both in vivo and in vitro experiments and examined how they would interfere with the binding of 3H-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to cytosol and nuclei. When 200-1000 excess quantities of the antiandrogens were administered to the experimental animals 10 min before injection of 3H-testosterone, all of them except R 2956 reduced the bound radioactivity in the nuclei of the sebaceous gland by more than 40%. Incubation of the cytosol fraction with 1 x 10(-7) M of cyproterone acetate caused a 70% decrease in radioactivity of the specific binding. In contrast, such inhibitory activities of the three other antiandrogens were less conspicuous even at 1 x 10(-6) M. In the homogenate of the sebaceous gland incubated with 1 x 10(-8) M of DHT, the other drugs than Sch 13521 curbed the characteristic binding of DHT to macromolecules of the nuclei by nearly 70% at 1 x 10(-6) M.", "contents": "Effect of antiandrogens on the binding of androgen to cytosol and nuclei of hamster sebaceous glands. Cyproterone acetate, R 2956, Ro 7-2340 and Sch 13521 in the daily dose of 8 mg injected intramuscularly to castrated adult hamsters for 3 weeks were all found to significantly antagonize the stimulatory effect of exogenous testosterone propionate (80 microgram im, every other day) on the sebaceous gland as well as the prostate and the seminal vesicle. With a view to clarifying the mechanisms of action of these antiandrogenic drugs on the sebaceous gland, the present author carried out both in vivo and in vitro experiments and examined how they would interfere with the binding of 3H-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to cytosol and nuclei. When 200-1000 excess quantities of the antiandrogens were administered to the experimental animals 10 min before injection of 3H-testosterone, all of them except R 2956 reduced the bound radioactivity in the nuclei of the sebaceous gland by more than 40%. Incubation of the cytosol fraction with 1 x 10(-7) M of cyproterone acetate caused a 70% decrease in radioactivity of the specific binding. In contrast, such inhibitory activities of the three other antiandrogens were less conspicuous even at 1 x 10(-6) M. In the homogenate of the sebaceous gland incubated with 1 x 10(-8) M of DHT, the other drugs than Sch 13521 curbed the characteristic binding of DHT to macromolecules of the nuclei by nearly 70% at 1 x 10(-6) M.", "PMID": 443861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6357", "title": "[Investigations of the effect and mechanism of action of the beta-sympathomimetic ritodrine on the synthesis and release of dipalmitoyl-lecithin in the fetal rabbit lung (author's transl)].", "content": "For a period of 8 days, pregnant white New Zealand rabbits were treated either with the beta-sympathomimetic Ritodrine (1 mg/kg) body weight daily) or with 0.9% saline solution. The fetuses were delivered by caesarian section on the 25th and 30th day of gestation (term being 31 days). No significant difference was found between the Ritodrine and saline treated groups with respect to the levels of dipalmitoyl-lecithin (DPL) obtained from the homogenates as well as the alveolar lavages of the fetal lungs. These results indicate that with this experimental model, prepartum treatment with Ritodrine has no effect either on DPL synthesis or its release into the alveolar spaces. Furthermore, treatment with the beta-sympathomimetic produced no significant change in the concentrations of the specific glucocorticoid receptors in the cytosol and nuclei of the fetal lungs, and in addition, the lung cytosol glucose concentrations as well as the plasma corticosteroid levels were unaffected. These findings support the conclusion that the synthesis of DPL in the fetal lung is not stimulated by Ritodrine.", "contents": "[Investigations of the effect and mechanism of action of the beta-sympathomimetic ritodrine on the synthesis and release of dipalmitoyl-lecithin in the fetal rabbit lung (author's transl)]. For a period of 8 days, pregnant white New Zealand rabbits were treated either with the beta-sympathomimetic Ritodrine (1 mg/kg) body weight daily) or with 0.9% saline solution. The fetuses were delivered by caesarian section on the 25th and 30th day of gestation (term being 31 days). No significant difference was found between the Ritodrine and saline treated groups with respect to the levels of dipalmitoyl-lecithin (DPL) obtained from the homogenates as well as the alveolar lavages of the fetal lungs. These results indicate that with this experimental model, prepartum treatment with Ritodrine has no effect either on DPL synthesis or its release into the alveolar spaces. Furthermore, treatment with the beta-sympathomimetic produced no significant change in the concentrations of the specific glucocorticoid receptors in the cytosol and nuclei of the fetal lungs, and in addition, the lung cytosol glucose concentrations as well as the plasma corticosteroid levels were unaffected. These findings support the conclusion that the synthesis of DPL in the fetal lung is not stimulated by Ritodrine.", "PMID": 443864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6358", "title": "[The structure of decidual mucosa in the accessory horn of an uterus bicornis (author's transl)].", "content": "The loosely attached decidual mucosa in the accessory horn of an uterus bicornis does not principally differ from the mucosa in the horn containing the fetus. Structural studies show that the regression of decidual endometrium to a endothelium-like lining is a hormone-dependent process such as stromagland dissociation. Mechanical factors due to expansion of the fetus certainly play no major role. Degenerative phenomena, such as focal necrosis, sclerosing edema, thrombosis, and inflammatory infiltrates probably appear more frequently in the accessory horn. They may be explained by more pronounced regional disturbances concerning perfusion and the inferior sealing of the uterine cavity.", "contents": "[The structure of decidual mucosa in the accessory horn of an uterus bicornis (author's transl)]. The loosely attached decidual mucosa in the accessory horn of an uterus bicornis does not principally differ from the mucosa in the horn containing the fetus. Structural studies show that the regression of decidual endometrium to a endothelium-like lining is a hormone-dependent process such as stromagland dissociation. Mechanical factors due to expansion of the fetus certainly play no major role. Degenerative phenomena, such as focal necrosis, sclerosing edema, thrombosis, and inflammatory infiltrates probably appear more frequently in the accessory horn. They may be explained by more pronounced regional disturbances concerning perfusion and the inferior sealing of the uterine cavity.", "PMID": 443865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6359", "title": "[Patterns of fetal heart frequency during the second stage of labour and expulsion period--typical patterns, frequency, risk of acidosis and evaluation (author's transl)].", "content": "Four patterns of fetal heart frequency with normocardia, two with tachycardia and three with bradycardia are described during the expulsion period. The most frequent patterns are normocardia with decelerations (48%), normocardia with decelerations and final bradycardia (21.1%) and basal bradycardia with decelerations (13.5%). The frequency of acidosis (pH of the umbilical artery less than or equal to 7,200) of these three patterns amounts to 8.3, 24.1 respectively 26.7%. The mean values of pHUA of normocardia with decelerations and final bradycardia, bradycardia, bradycardia with decelerations, tachycardia with decelerations and final bradycardia with prepathologic respectively pathologic Scores (Hammacher's Score, greater than or equal to five points) range from preacidosis to acidosis. Scoring of cardiotocograms seems to be of greater clinical significance than the measurement of deceleration areas.", "contents": "[Patterns of fetal heart frequency during the second stage of labour and expulsion period--typical patterns, frequency, risk of acidosis and evaluation (author's transl)]. Four patterns of fetal heart frequency with normocardia, two with tachycardia and three with bradycardia are described during the expulsion period. The most frequent patterns are normocardia with decelerations (48%), normocardia with decelerations and final bradycardia (21.1%) and basal bradycardia with decelerations (13.5%). The frequency of acidosis (pH of the umbilical artery less than or equal to 7,200) of these three patterns amounts to 8.3, 24.1 respectively 26.7%. The mean values of pHUA of normocardia with decelerations and final bradycardia, bradycardia, bradycardia with decelerations, tachycardia with decelerations and final bradycardia with prepathologic respectively pathologic Scores (Hammacher's Score, greater than or equal to five points) range from preacidosis to acidosis. Scoring of cardiotocograms seems to be of greater clinical significance than the measurement of deceleration areas.", "PMID": 443866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6360", "title": "[Prenatal sex determination by radioimmunoassay of testosterone with and without chromatography of the amniotic fluid (author's transl)].", "content": "Amniotic fluid testosterone measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) without chromatography (immunoreactive testosterone) seems not to be a definitive test for prenatal sex determination in all cases. In this study testosterone (T) levels measured by RIA with chromatography of the amniotic fluid samples were compared with immunoreactive testosterone (iT) values, to determine the predictive accuracy of the two methods. In 111 amniotic fluid samples between 15 and 19 weeks of gestation iT and T were measured parallelly. There are significant differences between iT- and T-means of both sexes (p less than 0.001). 95%-condifence limits of iT-values of the male and female fetuses are largely overlapping. In contrast, the overlap of 95%-confidence limits of the T-values is only minor. The measurement of testosterone with chromatography of the amniotic fluid samples shows for prenatal sex determination in over 90% accuracy. This result is due to the elimination of sex-specific differences in crossreacting steroids within the amniotic fluid of both sexes.", "contents": "[Prenatal sex determination by radioimmunoassay of testosterone with and without chromatography of the amniotic fluid (author's transl)]. Amniotic fluid testosterone measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) without chromatography (immunoreactive testosterone) seems not to be a definitive test for prenatal sex determination in all cases. In this study testosterone (T) levels measured by RIA with chromatography of the amniotic fluid samples were compared with immunoreactive testosterone (iT) values, to determine the predictive accuracy of the two methods. In 111 amniotic fluid samples between 15 and 19 weeks of gestation iT and T were measured parallelly. There are significant differences between iT- and T-means of both sexes (p less than 0.001). 95%-condifence limits of iT-values of the male and female fetuses are largely overlapping. In contrast, the overlap of 95%-confidence limits of the T-values is only minor. The measurement of testosterone with chromatography of the amniotic fluid samples shows for prenatal sex determination in over 90% accuracy. This result is due to the elimination of sex-specific differences in crossreacting steroids within the amniotic fluid of both sexes.", "PMID": 443867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6361", "title": "[Problems of dextran-charcoal-separation of free from antibody-bound steroid in a direct radioimmunoassay of progesterone without chromatography and extraction (author's transl)].", "content": "A method for radioimmunoassay of serum progesterone is described which does not require extraction. A chromatographic step is not necessary because of the high specifity of the antibody. The intrassay coefficient of variation was 6.1% and the interassay coefficient of variation was 8.4%. The detection limit was 10 pg/tube that means 1 ng/ml serum. The test on parallelity was correct up to 10 microliter serum. The results compared with results of a radioimmunoassay with extraction were identical. High concentrations of hormone in serum and an antibody of high specifity are required for the direct radioimmunoassay of steroids. Using the dextran-charcoal system for separation of free from antibody-bound steroid the relationship of the quantity of serum to the quantity of charcoal is of great importance. These problems are discussed.", "contents": "[Problems of dextran-charcoal-separation of free from antibody-bound steroid in a direct radioimmunoassay of progesterone without chromatography and extraction (author's transl)]. A method for radioimmunoassay of serum progesterone is described which does not require extraction. A chromatographic step is not necessary because of the high specifity of the antibody. The intrassay coefficient of variation was 6.1% and the interassay coefficient of variation was 8.4%. The detection limit was 10 pg/tube that means 1 ng/ml serum. The test on parallelity was correct up to 10 microliter serum. The results compared with results of a radioimmunoassay with extraction were identical. High concentrations of hormone in serum and an antibody of high specifity are required for the direct radioimmunoassay of steroids. Using the dextran-charcoal system for separation of free from antibody-bound steroid the relationship of the quantity of serum to the quantity of charcoal is of great importance. These problems are discussed.", "PMID": 443868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6362", "title": "[On the effect of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha on circular and longitudinal myometrium strips of different corpus uteri tissues of the guinea pig in vitro (author's transl)].", "content": "The effects of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha on corpus uteri and cervix strips of guinea pigs were studied in vitro. Myometrium strips developed maximal contraction activity at concentrations of 10(-7) M PGE2 and 5 x 10(-7) M PGF2 alpha in the organ bath, respectively. As for corpus uteri myometrium strips, longitudinal (extern) and circular (intern) layers of the organ wall showed comparable Prostaglandin-induced contractions. On the other hand, longitudinal and circular strips from cervix uteri tissue showed adverse Prostaglandin effects: PGE2 relaxed the cervix strips by lowering the muscle tone, the contraction frequency and a complete stop of contractions within most experiments lasting for an average time of 15 min. PGF2 alpha induced strong contractions of the same kind like corpus uteri strips did. The results indicate a role of PGE2 in the opening of the cervix, whereas PGF2 alpha possibly plays a role in the involution of the uterus post partum.", "contents": "[On the effect of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha on circular and longitudinal myometrium strips of different corpus uteri tissues of the guinea pig in vitro (author's transl)]. The effects of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha on corpus uteri and cervix strips of guinea pigs were studied in vitro. Myometrium strips developed maximal contraction activity at concentrations of 10(-7) M PGE2 and 5 x 10(-7) M PGF2 alpha in the organ bath, respectively. As for corpus uteri myometrium strips, longitudinal (extern) and circular (intern) layers of the organ wall showed comparable Prostaglandin-induced contractions. On the other hand, longitudinal and circular strips from cervix uteri tissue showed adverse Prostaglandin effects: PGE2 relaxed the cervix strips by lowering the muscle tone, the contraction frequency and a complete stop of contractions within most experiments lasting for an average time of 15 min. PGF2 alpha induced strong contractions of the same kind like corpus uteri strips did. The results indicate a role of PGE2 in the opening of the cervix, whereas PGF2 alpha possibly plays a role in the involution of the uterus post partum.", "PMID": 443869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6363", "title": "[Iatrogenic urethral pathology in paraplegic patients].", "content": "A review is made of the urethral pathology of iatrogenic origin in 127 paraplegic patients in which the etiopathogenic mechanisms and the treatment applied are annalysed as well as the results obtained and the most suitable prophylaxis of the said pathology.", "contents": "[Iatrogenic urethral pathology in paraplegic patients]. A review is made of the urethral pathology of iatrogenic origin in 127 paraplegic patients in which the etiopathogenic mechanisms and the treatment applied are annalysed as well as the results obtained and the most suitable prophylaxis of the said pathology.", "PMID": 443871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6364", "title": "[Various aspects of the vessels of the renal glomerulus seen through the scanning electron microscope].", "content": "The kidney glomeruli of the rabbit have been examined by means of repletion with celloidin and subsequent corrosion. The observation has been done with a scanning electronic microscope. In their most general and common aspect, the glomeruli have variations in their arteries; in some cases these are homogenous whilst in others they may be different within a single glomerulus and different among each other. When the glomeruli are dissected, these differences are seen much better as there can be seen to be several collaterals, those emerging from the afferrent trunk which may have different devices and several shapes as some are more or less elongated whilst in other circumstances these arteries are spiral with numerous curls. We cannot specify whether these differences are purely morphological or different functional states. When glomeruli are observed in a single area, they present different shapes and sizes which suggests that these differences are typical of each glomerulus and never dependent upon the topography where they are located. The arteries of the glomeruli are generally arranged in lobules. These may be different in the size, length and arrangement of the vessels since, as we clearly state in this paper, the vascular lobules are different from each other within a single glomerulus.", "contents": "[Various aspects of the vessels of the renal glomerulus seen through the scanning electron microscope]. The kidney glomeruli of the rabbit have been examined by means of repletion with celloidin and subsequent corrosion. The observation has been done with a scanning electronic microscope. In their most general and common aspect, the glomeruli have variations in their arteries; in some cases these are homogenous whilst in others they may be different within a single glomerulus and different among each other. When the glomeruli are dissected, these differences are seen much better as there can be seen to be several collaterals, those emerging from the afferrent trunk which may have different devices and several shapes as some are more or less elongated whilst in other circumstances these arteries are spiral with numerous curls. We cannot specify whether these differences are purely morphological or different functional states. When glomeruli are observed in a single area, they present different shapes and sizes which suggests that these differences are typical of each glomerulus and never dependent upon the topography where they are located. The arteries of the glomeruli are generally arranged in lobules. These may be different in the size, length and arrangement of the vessels since, as we clearly state in this paper, the vascular lobules are different from each other within a single glomerulus.", "PMID": 443872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6365", "title": "[Comparative ultrastructural study of the epithelial stromal junction in the prostatic gland].", "content": "In this paper, the authors carry out a comparative study of the structures adjacent to the alveolar periphery of the prostate-glands of men, dogs and bulls. In the three cases an E.S.J. (Epithelial-Stromal-Junction) similar to that described in the mammary gland and characterized in the first two cases by the existence of four, ultrastruct strata, consisting of the basal lamina, the somas of the adjacent fibroblasts and their cytoplasmic expansions as well as the arrangement of the intercellular, collagen microfibrils, was found to exist in this gland. In the case of the bovine prostate gland, the structural organization of the E.S.J. was basically characterized by the structural arrangement of the collagen microfibrils. The structures described constitute models on which to base future research on the hyperplastic and neoplastic processes of the prostate gland.", "contents": "[Comparative ultrastructural study of the epithelial stromal junction in the prostatic gland]. In this paper, the authors carry out a comparative study of the structures adjacent to the alveolar periphery of the prostate-glands of men, dogs and bulls. In the three cases an E.S.J. (Epithelial-Stromal-Junction) similar to that described in the mammary gland and characterized in the first two cases by the existence of four, ultrastruct strata, consisting of the basal lamina, the somas of the adjacent fibroblasts and their cytoplasmic expansions as well as the arrangement of the intercellular, collagen microfibrils, was found to exist in this gland. In the case of the bovine prostate gland, the structural organization of the E.S.J. was basically characterized by the structural arrangement of the collagen microfibrils. The structures described constitute models on which to base future research on the hyperplastic and neoplastic processes of the prostate gland.", "PMID": 443870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6366", "title": "Primary osteoathrosis of the hip and Heberden's nodes.", "content": "One hundred patients with primary osteoarthrosis of the hip were examined for evidence of generalised arthrosis associated with Heberden's nodes, and in addition their hips were graded by the radiographic pattern of loss of joint space. Twenty-nine patients had bilateral concentric loss of joint space, and 18 in this group had Heberden's nodes. None of the 17 patients with bilateral upper pole changes had Heberden's nodes, and only 7 of the 31 patients with unilateral upper pole changes had Heberden's nodes. None of the 6 patients with medial loss of joint space had Heberden's nodes. This study has shown an association between Heberden's nodes had primary osteoarthrosis of the hip where this is characterised by concentric loss of joint space. The association is most marked where hip changes are bilateral, suggesting that hip involvement in generalised osteoarthrosis is part of a generalised disorder with possible genetic or biochemical abnormalities.", "contents": "Primary osteoathrosis of the hip and Heberden's nodes. One hundred patients with primary osteoarthrosis of the hip were examined for evidence of generalised arthrosis associated with Heberden's nodes, and in addition their hips were graded by the radiographic pattern of loss of joint space. Twenty-nine patients had bilateral concentric loss of joint space, and 18 in this group had Heberden's nodes. None of the 17 patients with bilateral upper pole changes had Heberden's nodes, and only 7 of the 31 patients with unilateral upper pole changes had Heberden's nodes. None of the 6 patients with medial loss of joint space had Heberden's nodes. This study has shown an association between Heberden's nodes had primary osteoarthrosis of the hip where this is characterised by concentric loss of joint space. The association is most marked where hip changes are bilateral, suggesting that hip involvement in generalised osteoarthrosis is part of a generalised disorder with possible genetic or biochemical abnormalities.", "PMID": 443878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6367", "title": "Sacroiliitis detected by bone scintiscanning: a clinical, radiological, and scintigraphic follow-up study.", "content": "Twenty-four patients had abnormal sacroiliac joints detected by quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy but no radiological evidence of sacroiliitis on original investigation. We studied them again after intervals of 12 to 36 months. Four patients developed radiological change. Two young, HLA B27-positive men had undoubted ankylosing spondylitis, and a young woman had possible ankylosing spondylitis. A middle-aged man had changes that could be attributed to post-traumatic osteoarthrosis. Of the remaining 20 cases 15 had symptoms and signs suggestive of inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton (and peripheral arthropathy in 5 cases). The sexes were affected equally (8 females, 7 males), and only 2 of the 15 were B27-positive. The response to anti-inflammatory medication was generally good to excellent, and scintiscans tended to improve. Of the remaining 5 patients, 3 had mechanical or traumatic problems, and in 2 there was no explanation for the abnormal sacroiliac scintiscan. We conclude that quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy may detect ankylosing spondylitis prior to the develpment of radiological change and that it can identify an organic basis for backache in patients with a spondylitis-like syndrome. The clinical circumstances must be taken into account, as scintigraphic abnormalities are not diagnostic of any specific disease entity.", "contents": "Sacroiliitis detected by bone scintiscanning: a clinical, radiological, and scintigraphic follow-up study. Twenty-four patients had abnormal sacroiliac joints detected by quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy but no radiological evidence of sacroiliitis on original investigation. We studied them again after intervals of 12 to 36 months. Four patients developed radiological change. Two young, HLA B27-positive men had undoubted ankylosing spondylitis, and a young woman had possible ankylosing spondylitis. A middle-aged man had changes that could be attributed to post-traumatic osteoarthrosis. Of the remaining 20 cases 15 had symptoms and signs suggestive of inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton (and peripheral arthropathy in 5 cases). The sexes were affected equally (8 females, 7 males), and only 2 of the 15 were B27-positive. The response to anti-inflammatory medication was generally good to excellent, and scintiscans tended to improve. Of the remaining 5 patients, 3 had mechanical or traumatic problems, and in 2 there was no explanation for the abnormal sacroiliac scintiscan. We conclude that quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy may detect ankylosing spondylitis prior to the develpment of radiological change and that it can identify an organic basis for backache in patients with a spondylitis-like syndrome. The clinical circumstances must be taken into account, as scintigraphic abnormalities are not diagnostic of any specific disease entity.", "PMID": 443879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6368", "title": "Beh\u00e7et's syndrome: a family study and the elucidation of a genetic role.", "content": "A family with features of the mucocutaneous ocular syndrome is described. A 4-generation study reveals that the condition has been inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with variable expressivity. Psychiatric symptoms and myalgia have been prominent features peculiar to our patients.", "contents": "Beh\u00e7et's syndrome: a family study and the elucidation of a genetic role. A family with features of the mucocutaneous ocular syndrome is described. A 4-generation study reveals that the condition has been inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with variable expressivity. Psychiatric symptoms and myalgia have been prominent features peculiar to our patients.", "PMID": 443880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6369", "title": "[Testicular teratoma in infancy].", "content": "The authors describe a case of testicle-based teratoma, in a 20-month old boy. Due to the characteristics of the palpation and its eventual transillumination, it may be confused with a hydrocele. They stress its rarity and on the basis of a review of the literature, they explain its histological peculiarities and refer to its prognosis, usually benign, when it is diagnosed at about 2 years of age, providing that a very careful examination of the histological sections rules out the presence of anaplastic cells. Finally there is a short discussion on the possibilities of complementary therapy when there are metastases.", "contents": "[Testicular teratoma in infancy]. The authors describe a case of testicle-based teratoma, in a 20-month old boy. Due to the characteristics of the palpation and its eventual transillumination, it may be confused with a hydrocele. They stress its rarity and on the basis of a review of the literature, they explain its histological peculiarities and refer to its prognosis, usually benign, when it is diagnosed at about 2 years of age, providing that a very careful examination of the histological sections rules out the presence of anaplastic cells. Finally there is a short discussion on the possibilities of complementary therapy when there are metastases.", "PMID": 443874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6370", "title": "An evaluation of repeat intra-articular injections of yttrium-90 colloids in persistent synovitis of the knee.", "content": "The effectiveness of a second intra-articular injection of yttrium-90 colloid was studied in 30 patients with persistent synovitis of the knee. All had responded poorly to a first injection of yttrium-90 yet seemed likely to benefit from this therapy. With a minimum review period of 6 months complete remission of synovitis was obtained in 20%, while 63% gained symptomatic relief, with some reduction of synovitis. No improvement occurred in 17%, and in this group generalised disease activity was more apparent.", "contents": "An evaluation of repeat intra-articular injections of yttrium-90 colloids in persistent synovitis of the knee. The effectiveness of a second intra-articular injection of yttrium-90 colloid was studied in 30 patients with persistent synovitis of the knee. All had responded poorly to a first injection of yttrium-90 yet seemed likely to benefit from this therapy. With a minimum review period of 6 months complete remission of synovitis was obtained in 20%, while 63% gained symptomatic relief, with some reduction of synovitis. No improvement occurred in 17%, and in this group generalised disease activity was more apparent.", "PMID": 443881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6371", "title": "[Ureteral triplication with one blind branch].", "content": "We present a case of a double left ureter, one of which branched with one blind branch, which has not been described in the literature.", "contents": "[Ureteral triplication with one blind branch]. We present a case of a double left ureter, one of which branched with one blind branch, which has not been described in the literature.", "PMID": 443873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6372", "title": "IgA rheumatoid factor in the sera and saliva of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "content": "With a sensitive radioimmunoassay we have found elevated IgA rheumatoid factor (IgA-RF) levels in the sera of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The IgA--RF showed a pattern of reaction with human IgG subclasses and animal gammaglobulins similar to that of IgM-RF from the same patients. Rheumatoid factors of both classes were shown to be present in saliva of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "contents": "IgA rheumatoid factor in the sera and saliva of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome. With a sensitive radioimmunoassay we have found elevated IgA rheumatoid factor (IgA-RF) levels in the sera of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The IgA--RF showed a pattern of reaction with human IgG subclasses and animal gammaglobulins similar to that of IgM-RF from the same patients. Rheumatoid factors of both classes were shown to be present in saliva of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome.", "PMID": 443882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6373", "title": "[Rupture of a single renal cyst in the excretory ducts].", "content": "After observing one case, the authors review the contemporary literature on ruptures of single kidney cysts in the pyelo-calicial cavity. They comment upon the pathogenesis of this entity which is produced by an increase in the intracystic pressure, an increase in the pressure inside the pyelo-calicial cavity or a decrease in the resistence of the wall separating the cyst from the intrarenal cavities. They review all the possible etiological causes (intracystic haemorrhaging, infection, traumatism, idiopathic disorder in the dynamics of the cystic fluid, obstructions in the excretory ducts, previously pathological stones, etc.). They enumerate the principles for the radiological diagnosis issued by McLaughlin and Pfister, to which the authors of this paper add, as a matter of interest, the retraction of the cortical at the level of the renal cavity.", "contents": "[Rupture of a single renal cyst in the excretory ducts]. After observing one case, the authors review the contemporary literature on ruptures of single kidney cysts in the pyelo-calicial cavity. They comment upon the pathogenesis of this entity which is produced by an increase in the intracystic pressure, an increase in the pressure inside the pyelo-calicial cavity or a decrease in the resistence of the wall separating the cyst from the intrarenal cavities. They review all the possible etiological causes (intracystic haemorrhaging, infection, traumatism, idiopathic disorder in the dynamics of the cystic fluid, obstructions in the excretory ducts, previously pathological stones, etc.). They enumerate the principles for the radiological diagnosis issued by McLaughlin and Pfister, to which the authors of this paper add, as a matter of interest, the retraction of the cortical at the level of the renal cavity.", "PMID": 443875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6374", "title": "Synthesis of sulphated proteoglycans by rheumatoid and normal synovial tissue in culture.", "content": "Synthesis of sulphated proteoglycans by cell lines derived from explants of 7 rheumatoid and 9 normal specimens of synovial tissue, as well as by 7 lines of skin fibroblasts from non-rheumatoid patients, was examined. Cells of all 3 types were cultured as monolayers. They were then disaggregated and their capacity to synthesise proteoglycan estimated in cell suspensions by the incorporation of [35S]-sulphate into CPC-precipitable material during 2 hours of incubation. Cell suspensions incorporated somewhat more [35S]-sulphate than corresponding duplicate monolayers. Synovial cells from rheumatoid patients incorporated 2 to 3 times as much [35S]-sulphate as synovial cells from normals. Skin fibroblasts, however, incorporated less [35S]-sulphate than rheumatoid or normal synovial cells up to the fifth passage. Thereafter their incorporation gradually increased to overtake that of synovial cells. About one-half to one-third of the total [35S]-sulphate labelled material was closely associated with cells from synovial tissues and fibroblasts respectively.", "contents": "Synthesis of sulphated proteoglycans by rheumatoid and normal synovial tissue in culture. Synthesis of sulphated proteoglycans by cell lines derived from explants of 7 rheumatoid and 9 normal specimens of synovial tissue, as well as by 7 lines of skin fibroblasts from non-rheumatoid patients, was examined. Cells of all 3 types were cultured as monolayers. They were then disaggregated and their capacity to synthesise proteoglycan estimated in cell suspensions by the incorporation of [35S]-sulphate into CPC-precipitable material during 2 hours of incubation. Cell suspensions incorporated somewhat more [35S]-sulphate than corresponding duplicate monolayers. Synovial cells from rheumatoid patients incorporated 2 to 3 times as much [35S]-sulphate as synovial cells from normals. Skin fibroblasts, however, incorporated less [35S]-sulphate than rheumatoid or normal synovial cells up to the fifth passage. Thereafter their incorporation gradually increased to overtake that of synovial cells. About one-half to one-third of the total [35S]-sulphate labelled material was closely associated with cells from synovial tissues and fibroblasts respectively.", "PMID": 443883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6375", "title": "[The role of C reactive protein in urological neoplasms].", "content": "The authors make a study of 46 urological patients (16 control and 30 neoplasia persons) determining the R.C.P. before and after the operations. The positive results obtained (77%) should lead to the said test becoming routine in uro-genital neoplasias.", "contents": "[The role of C reactive protein in urological neoplasms]. The authors make a study of 46 urological patients (16 control and 30 neoplasia persons) determining the R.C.P. before and after the operations. The positive results obtained (77%) should lead to the said test becoming routine in uro-genital neoplasias.", "PMID": 443876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6376", "title": "Acetylator phenotype in spontaneous SLE and rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Acetylator phenotype was determined in 22 patients with spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus and the proportion of 'slow' acetylators compared with that obtained in a group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and a group of healthy controls. 73% of the SLE group were designated 'slow' compared with 72% of the rheumatoid group and 64% of the control group. These differences were not significant.", "contents": "Acetylator phenotype in spontaneous SLE and rheumatoid arthritis. Acetylator phenotype was determined in 22 patients with spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus and the proportion of 'slow' acetylators compared with that obtained in a group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and a group of healthy controls. 73% of the SLE group were designated 'slow' compared with 72% of the rheumatoid group and 64% of the control group. These differences were not significant.", "PMID": 443884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6377", "title": "[A case of urethrocele (radiographic image)].", "content": "The authors present a case of male urethrocele situated at the base of the free portion of the penis, on the inferior side and containing 240 g. of dirty and fetid urine. The urethra is free from any stenosis, obstacle or stone. They mention the case of Gausa Raspall in Barcelona, presented in 1949 along with the clinical picture of the male urethrocele. They also include a retrograde urethrocystograph with antero-posterior and oblique anterior left projections.", "contents": "[A case of urethrocele (radiographic image)]. The authors present a case of male urethrocele situated at the base of the free portion of the penis, on the inferior side and containing 240 g. of dirty and fetid urine. The urethra is free from any stenosis, obstacle or stone. They mention the case of Gausa Raspall in Barcelona, presented in 1949 along with the clinical picture of the male urethrocele. They also include a retrograde urethrocystograph with antero-posterior and oblique anterior left projections.", "PMID": 443877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6378", "title": "Serum copper and its relationship to clinical symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Total serum copper and ultrafilterable copper levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were determined and related to articular index, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and serum iron concentration. Relationships were found between serum copper and ESR, and between ultrafilterable copper and articular index. The relationship between serum copper and serum iron was found to be a drug-dependent.", "contents": "Serum copper and its relationship to clinical symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis. Total serum copper and ultrafilterable copper levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were determined and related to articular index, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and serum iron concentration. Relationships were found between serum copper and ESR, and between ultrafilterable copper and articular index. The relationship between serum copper and serum iron was found to be a drug-dependent.", "PMID": 443885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6379", "title": "Rapidly progressive scleroderma associated with carcinoma of the oesophagus.", "content": "A patient with scleroderma of recent onset was found to have a carcinoma of the oesophagus. The rapid progression of the scleroderma suggested the possibility that it represented a systemic manifestation of malignancy.", "contents": "Rapidly progressive scleroderma associated with carcinoma of the oesophagus. A patient with scleroderma of recent onset was found to have a carcinoma of the oesophagus. The rapid progression of the scleroderma suggested the possibility that it represented a systemic manifestation of malignancy.", "PMID": 443886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6380", "title": "Hypercholesterolaemic arthropathy in primary biliary cirrhosis.", "content": "A new cause of severe transient fitting polyarthritis is described in a patient with primary biliary cirrhosis. Hypercholesterolaemia is thought to provoke acute inflammatory periarthritis and peritendinitis. The clinical features are sudden onset of peripheral joint pain and effusion, with redness of the overlying skin, often precipitated by unusual exercise. Cholestyramine may help to prevent this form of arthritis.", "contents": "Hypercholesterolaemic arthropathy in primary biliary cirrhosis. A new cause of severe transient fitting polyarthritis is described in a patient with primary biliary cirrhosis. Hypercholesterolaemia is thought to provoke acute inflammatory periarthritis and peritendinitis. The clinical features are sudden onset of peripheral joint pain and effusion, with redness of the overlying skin, often precipitated by unusual exercise. Cholestyramine may help to prevent this form of arthritis.", "PMID": 443887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6381", "title": "Attitudes of the public to arthritis.", "content": "A survey of the public's attitude to arthritis was commissioned by the Arthritis and Rheumatism Council (ARC) in 1974. The survey was carried out by National Opinion Polls (NOP) Market Research Ltd. The ARC were interested to find out whether people underestimated arthritis and what they thought about the consequences. Respondents were asked to rank a number of illnesses in terms of their seriousness and the loss of work to which they give rise. They were also shown a series of statements about arthritis and rheumatism in order to elicit the extent of their agreement with the views these represented. The public appear to have fairly realistic ideas about the magnitude of the problem and of its nature and associations. However, although the pain of arthritis and rheumatism was appreciated, their possible impact in terms of disturbance of the normal pattern of daily life tended to be underestimated. The findings reflect the climate of opinion from which present and potential arthritis sufferers come and may therefore reveal part of their attitudes to their disease.", "contents": "Attitudes of the public to arthritis. A survey of the public's attitude to arthritis was commissioned by the Arthritis and Rheumatism Council (ARC) in 1974. The survey was carried out by National Opinion Polls (NOP) Market Research Ltd. The ARC were interested to find out whether people underestimated arthritis and what they thought about the consequences. Respondents were asked to rank a number of illnesses in terms of their seriousness and the loss of work to which they give rise. They were also shown a series of statements about arthritis and rheumatism in order to elicit the extent of their agreement with the views these represented. The public appear to have fairly realistic ideas about the magnitude of the problem and of its nature and associations. However, although the pain of arthritis and rheumatism was appreciated, their possible impact in terms of disturbance of the normal pattern of daily life tended to be underestimated. The findings reflect the climate of opinion from which present and potential arthritis sufferers come and may therefore reveal part of their attitudes to their disease.", "PMID": 443891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6382", "title": "Traumatic injuries of the portal vein. The role of acute ligation.", "content": "Injuries to the portal vein are rare but have a high risk with a mortality of 50--70% secondary to exsanguinating hemorrhage. When managing injuries to the portal vein, lateral venorrhaphy, end to end anastomosis, or an interposition graft should be attempted whenever possible. However, in a hemodynamically unstable patient or when confronted with a nonreconstructable injury, acute portal vein ligation may be the procedure of choice as it is safely tolerated in some 80% of patients. Of eleven reported patients in whom the portal vein was ligated acutely for traumatic injury, six survived. Four of the nonsurvivors died of massive associated injuries. Of the six surviving patients, five tolerated acute ligation of the portal vein without complication. Should portal vein ligation be performed a \"second look\" operation is essential in 24 hours to examine the bowel for viability. A portosystemic shunt with its inherent complications should not be done as a primary procedure when attempts at reconstruction of the portal vein have failed. Shunting should be reserved for those few patients who develop stigmata of portal hypertension or impending infarction of the bowel.", "contents": "Traumatic injuries of the portal vein. The role of acute ligation. Injuries to the portal vein are rare but have a high risk with a mortality of 50--70% secondary to exsanguinating hemorrhage. When managing injuries to the portal vein, lateral venorrhaphy, end to end anastomosis, or an interposition graft should be attempted whenever possible. However, in a hemodynamically unstable patient or when confronted with a nonreconstructable injury, acute portal vein ligation may be the procedure of choice as it is safely tolerated in some 80% of patients. Of eleven reported patients in whom the portal vein was ligated acutely for traumatic injury, six survived. Four of the nonsurvivors died of massive associated injuries. Of the six surviving patients, five tolerated acute ligation of the portal vein without complication. Should portal vein ligation be performed a \"second look\" operation is essential in 24 hours to examine the bowel for viability. A portosystemic shunt with its inherent complications should not be done as a primary procedure when attempts at reconstruction of the portal vein have failed. Shunting should be reserved for those few patients who develop stigmata of portal hypertension or impending infarction of the bowel.", "PMID": 443892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6383", "title": "Surgical treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts. Analysis of 119 cases.", "content": "A review was made of the hospital records of 119 patients with pancreatic pseudocysts. Alcoholism, biliary disease and abdominal trauma were the most common antecedent conditions. Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom, and abdominal tenderness or mass were the most common physical findings. Abdominal echography and contrast study of the upper gastrointestinal tract were diagnostic in 90% of the patients examined. X-rays of the chest, colon, and biliary tract revealed pathology in 30--40% of the patients. Compared to patients with uncomplicated pseudocyst, patients who were acutely ill at the time of external drainage had twice the incidence of postoperative complications. Each subgroup experienced similar, high rates of postoperative death and pseudocyst recurrence. Both groups of patients treated by internal drainage had lower rates of postoperative morbidity, mortality, and pseudocyst recurrence than patients with uncomplicated pseudocysts undergoing external drainage. External drainage should be used in all patients with immature pseudocysts and in critically ill patients with mature pseudocysts not juxtaposed to a portion of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Internal drainage is a safer and more effective procedure in most other patients with mature pseudocysts, irrespective of the clinical status of the patient.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts. Analysis of 119 cases. A review was made of the hospital records of 119 patients with pancreatic pseudocysts. Alcoholism, biliary disease and abdominal trauma were the most common antecedent conditions. Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom, and abdominal tenderness or mass were the most common physical findings. Abdominal echography and contrast study of the upper gastrointestinal tract were diagnostic in 90% of the patients examined. X-rays of the chest, colon, and biliary tract revealed pathology in 30--40% of the patients. Compared to patients with uncomplicated pseudocyst, patients who were acutely ill at the time of external drainage had twice the incidence of postoperative complications. Each subgroup experienced similar, high rates of postoperative death and pseudocyst recurrence. Both groups of patients treated by internal drainage had lower rates of postoperative morbidity, mortality, and pseudocyst recurrence than patients with uncomplicated pseudocysts undergoing external drainage. External drainage should be used in all patients with immature pseudocysts and in critically ill patients with mature pseudocysts not juxtaposed to a portion of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Internal drainage is a safer and more effective procedure in most other patients with mature pseudocysts, irrespective of the clinical status of the patient.", "PMID": 443893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6384", "title": "Antibiotic penetration into normal and inflamed tissues as reflected by peripheral lymph.", "content": "The concentration of antibiotic in peripheral lymph reflects the tissue levels. Following microsurgical cannulation of the right lymphatic duct in 28 healthy rabbits, either penicillin-G, nafcillin, erythromycin, or cefazolin was given intramuscularly, and lymph and serum samples obtained at frequent intervals. Penicillin or nafcillin was administered to 14 additional rabbits with cellulitis of the right upper extremity. A serum sample drawn between one and two hours after an intramuscular injection, in general, reflects the peak lymph antibiotic concentration and hence the peak tissue concentration of the drug. After two hours the lymph level remains equal to or greater than the simultaneous serum level. The presence of inflammation did not alter the peak antibiotic levels. However, nafcillin required longer for equilibration in the inflamed state than in the uninflamed state, whereas penicillin-G equilibrated more rapidly in the presence of inflammation.", "contents": "Antibiotic penetration into normal and inflamed tissues as reflected by peripheral lymph. The concentration of antibiotic in peripheral lymph reflects the tissue levels. Following microsurgical cannulation of the right lymphatic duct in 28 healthy rabbits, either penicillin-G, nafcillin, erythromycin, or cefazolin was given intramuscularly, and lymph and serum samples obtained at frequent intervals. Penicillin or nafcillin was administered to 14 additional rabbits with cellulitis of the right upper extremity. A serum sample drawn between one and two hours after an intramuscular injection, in general, reflects the peak lymph antibiotic concentration and hence the peak tissue concentration of the drug. After two hours the lymph level remains equal to or greater than the simultaneous serum level. The presence of inflammation did not alter the peak antibiotic levels. However, nafcillin required longer for equilibration in the inflamed state than in the uninflamed state, whereas penicillin-G equilibrated more rapidly in the presence of inflammation.", "PMID": 443894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6385", "title": "Prognosis after treatment of villous adenomas of the colon and rectum.", "content": "With the existing evidence of neoplastic polyps of the colon and rectum as precursors of most or all colonic cancer, information of the short- and long-term course after treatment is a prerequisite of using the knowledge of the polyp-cancer sequence in an effective cancer prophylaxis. One hundred seventy-four patients treated for villous adenomas of the colon and rectum during the years 1960-1975 were re-examined. Survival and cure rates were estimated by actuarial analysis. The death rate of colonic cancer among patients treated for a benign villous adenoma was significantly higher than in an age and sex matched normal population, resulting in a significantly reduced crude survival rate among these patients. Almost all recurrences after treatment of benign villous adenomas occurred within the first four to five years recurrence rate of roughly 30%, indicating that five years seem to be an adequate total control period following treatment.", "contents": "Prognosis after treatment of villous adenomas of the colon and rectum. With the existing evidence of neoplastic polyps of the colon and rectum as precursors of most or all colonic cancer, information of the short- and long-term course after treatment is a prerequisite of using the knowledge of the polyp-cancer sequence in an effective cancer prophylaxis. One hundred seventy-four patients treated for villous adenomas of the colon and rectum during the years 1960-1975 were re-examined. Survival and cure rates were estimated by actuarial analysis. The death rate of colonic cancer among patients treated for a benign villous adenoma was significantly higher than in an age and sex matched normal population, resulting in a significantly reduced crude survival rate among these patients. Almost all recurrences after treatment of benign villous adenomas occurred within the first four to five years recurrence rate of roughly 30%, indicating that five years seem to be an adequate total control period following treatment.", "PMID": 443895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6386", "title": "False aneurysm of the left ventricle. Report of four cases and review of surgical management.", "content": "False aneurysms of the left ventricle were repaired in four patients (average age, 61 years). The etiology was myocardial infarction in three patients and disruption of an apical left ventricular cannulation site in the fourth. The interval from initiating event to surgery averaged 11 months. One patient was in cardiogenic shock and succumbed in the operating room from myocardial failure. The other three patients, in functional class III at the time of surgery, survived and are currently asymptomatic. The literature records 43 patients who have undergone surgical repair of a false aneurysm of the left ventricle. The causes were myocardial infarction (12 patients), operative injury (13 patients), penetrating trauma (11 patients), and blunt trauma (seven patients). Twenty-seven (63%) were under the age of 50 years. In those who were limited by symptoms, congestive heart failure predominated. Forty seven per cent of the patients were operated upon in the first five months following the initiating event; 61% within the first year. Only four patients underwent surgery more than 48 months after the myocardial insult. Thrombus was present in 28% of the aneurysms. Morbidity was recorded in nine patients, and six patients (14%) died. This study documents the necessity for early surgical repair and the relatively low operative mortality obtained with this lethal lesion.", "contents": "False aneurysm of the left ventricle. Report of four cases and review of surgical management. False aneurysms of the left ventricle were repaired in four patients (average age, 61 years). The etiology was myocardial infarction in three patients and disruption of an apical left ventricular cannulation site in the fourth. The interval from initiating event to surgery averaged 11 months. One patient was in cardiogenic shock and succumbed in the operating room from myocardial failure. The other three patients, in functional class III at the time of surgery, survived and are currently asymptomatic. The literature records 43 patients who have undergone surgical repair of a false aneurysm of the left ventricle. The causes were myocardial infarction (12 patients), operative injury (13 patients), penetrating trauma (11 patients), and blunt trauma (seven patients). Twenty-seven (63%) were under the age of 50 years. In those who were limited by symptoms, congestive heart failure predominated. Forty seven per cent of the patients were operated upon in the first five months following the initiating event; 61% within the first year. Only four patients underwent surgery more than 48 months after the myocardial insult. Thrombus was present in 28% of the aneurysms. Morbidity was recorded in nine patients, and six patients (14%) died. This study documents the necessity for early surgical repair and the relatively low operative mortality obtained with this lethal lesion.", "PMID": 443896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6387", "title": "Heparin induced alterations in clearance and distribution of blood-borne microparticles following operative trauma.", "content": "The influence of systemic heparin administration on the vascular clearance and tissue distribution of blood-borne microparticles was evaluated in normal rats and rats after operation (laparotomy plus intestinal manipulation) utilizing an (131)I- colloid which is phagocytized by the reticuloendothelial system (RES). Intravenous heparin administration (100 USP/100g body weight) into normal animals three minutes prior to colloid injection (50 mg/lOOg) induced a significant increase in pulmonary localization of the microparticles as compared to nonheparinized control rats, while hepatic and splenic uptake were decreased. Surgical trauma decreased hepatic RE uptake and increased pulmonary localization of the microparticles when injected systemically at 60 minutes postsurgery. Heparin administration 60 minutes after surgery and three minutes prior to colloid injection, magnified the increased pulmonary localization response with an associated further depression of the RES. The ability of heparin to alter both RE clearance function and lung localization of microparticles was dose dependent and a function of the interval between heparin administration and systemic particulate infusion. Thus, low dose heparin administration was capable of stimulating RE activity while heparin in doses of excess of 50 USP units/lOOg body weight decreased RE function. These findings suggest that the functional state of the hepatic RE system can be greatly affected in a dose-dependent manner by systemic heparin administration which may influence distribution of blood-borne microparticles.", "contents": "Heparin induced alterations in clearance and distribution of blood-borne microparticles following operative trauma. The influence of systemic heparin administration on the vascular clearance and tissue distribution of blood-borne microparticles was evaluated in normal rats and rats after operation (laparotomy plus intestinal manipulation) utilizing an (131)I- colloid which is phagocytized by the reticuloendothelial system (RES). Intravenous heparin administration (100 USP/100g body weight) into normal animals three minutes prior to colloid injection (50 mg/lOOg) induced a significant increase in pulmonary localization of the microparticles as compared to nonheparinized control rats, while hepatic and splenic uptake were decreased. Surgical trauma decreased hepatic RE uptake and increased pulmonary localization of the microparticles when injected systemically at 60 minutes postsurgery. Heparin administration 60 minutes after surgery and three minutes prior to colloid injection, magnified the increased pulmonary localization response with an associated further depression of the RES. The ability of heparin to alter both RE clearance function and lung localization of microparticles was dose dependent and a function of the interval between heparin administration and systemic particulate infusion. Thus, low dose heparin administration was capable of stimulating RE activity while heparin in doses of excess of 50 USP units/lOOg body weight decreased RE function. These findings suggest that the functional state of the hepatic RE system can be greatly affected in a dose-dependent manner by systemic heparin administration which may influence distribution of blood-borne microparticles.", "PMID": 443897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6388", "title": "The effect of vasopressin on oxygen availability.", "content": "Vasopressin has been used with increasing frequency to control gastrointestinal bleeding, the beneficial effect being attributed to marked splanchnic vasoconstriction. Because vasopressin may result in impaired cardiac function and because other potent vasoconstrictive substances have been shown to increase the pulmonary shunt and decrease arterial oxygenation, this study was undertaken to determind the effect of vasopressin on oxygen availability. Ten healthy anesthetized mechanically ventilated dogs received a five hour intravenous vasopressin infusion, 0.005 U/kg/min. The heart rate decreased moderately and briefly. The mean systemic arterial pressure increased and then decreased, both minimally. The pulmonary shunt and the arterial oxygen content decreased slightly. The total systemic resistance increased and the stroke volume decreased, both substantially. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure gradually increased. The oxygen availability decreased markedly. This study demonstrated that a vasopressin infusion causes a marked decrease in oxygen availability due primarily to a decreased stroke volume and, to a lesser extent during the first hour, to a decreased heart rate. The pulmonary shunt did not increase. Increased systemic resistance followed by a gradual increase in the pulmonary wedge pressure suggests that the decreased stroke volume resulted, at least in part, from an increased afterload and left ventricular failure. It is suggested that until the effect of vasopressin on the cardiopulmonary systems and hence oxygen availability is fully studied in critically ill patients, that it be used with caution and with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring.", "contents": "The effect of vasopressin on oxygen availability. Vasopressin has been used with increasing frequency to control gastrointestinal bleeding, the beneficial effect being attributed to marked splanchnic vasoconstriction. Because vasopressin may result in impaired cardiac function and because other potent vasoconstrictive substances have been shown to increase the pulmonary shunt and decrease arterial oxygenation, this study was undertaken to determind the effect of vasopressin on oxygen availability. Ten healthy anesthetized mechanically ventilated dogs received a five hour intravenous vasopressin infusion, 0.005 U/kg/min. The heart rate decreased moderately and briefly. The mean systemic arterial pressure increased and then decreased, both minimally. The pulmonary shunt and the arterial oxygen content decreased slightly. The total systemic resistance increased and the stroke volume decreased, both substantially. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure gradually increased. The oxygen availability decreased markedly. This study demonstrated that a vasopressin infusion causes a marked decrease in oxygen availability due primarily to a decreased stroke volume and, to a lesser extent during the first hour, to a decreased heart rate. The pulmonary shunt did not increase. Increased systemic resistance followed by a gradual increase in the pulmonary wedge pressure suggests that the decreased stroke volume resulted, at least in part, from an increased afterload and left ventricular failure. It is suggested that until the effect of vasopressin on the cardiopulmonary systems and hence oxygen availability is fully studied in critically ill patients, that it be used with caution and with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring.", "PMID": 443898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6389", "title": "Causes for 340 reoperations on the extrahepatic bile ducts.", "content": "Three hundred forty of 5,086 patients undergoing operations on the extrahepatic biliary trees at the Swedish and University of Washington Hospitals in Seattle between 1956 and 1970 required reoperation on this system. This figure for reoperations did not include procedures for subhepatic or subphrenic abscess and/or wound complications. The most common cause for reoperation was an attempt to retrieve a residual or recurrent common duct stone (26.8% of the cases). The second most common cause for re-exploration was a tumor obstructing the common bile duct (18.9%). Less frequent causes for secondary surgery were stenosis of the ampulla of Vater (10.3%), bile duct injury (12.1%), pancreatitis (10.3%), inflammatory stricture (1.5%), cystic duct remnant (5%), and many other less important problems. Thus 4.7% or almost one in 20 of all our biliary operations were secondary. We feel that operative cholangiograms supplemented by manometry are the useful adjunct towards finding otherwise undetectable biliary pathology, whether on the basis of stones, tumors, or structures. We also feel that placement of T-tubes with a large arm going to the surface will allow the removal of most stones left behind after common bile duct explorations with the assistance of directable stone baskets.", "contents": "Causes for 340 reoperations on the extrahepatic bile ducts. Three hundred forty of 5,086 patients undergoing operations on the extrahepatic biliary trees at the Swedish and University of Washington Hospitals in Seattle between 1956 and 1970 required reoperation on this system. This figure for reoperations did not include procedures for subhepatic or subphrenic abscess and/or wound complications. The most common cause for reoperation was an attempt to retrieve a residual or recurrent common duct stone (26.8% of the cases). The second most common cause for re-exploration was a tumor obstructing the common bile duct (18.9%). Less frequent causes for secondary surgery were stenosis of the ampulla of Vater (10.3%), bile duct injury (12.1%), pancreatitis (10.3%), inflammatory stricture (1.5%), cystic duct remnant (5%), and many other less important problems. Thus 4.7% or almost one in 20 of all our biliary operations were secondary. We feel that operative cholangiograms supplemented by manometry are the useful adjunct towards finding otherwise undetectable biliary pathology, whether on the basis of stones, tumors, or structures. We also feel that placement of T-tubes with a large arm going to the surface will allow the removal of most stones left behind after common bile duct explorations with the assistance of directable stone baskets.", "PMID": 443899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6390", "title": "Changes in the costs of elective cholecystectomies, 1955-1965-1975.", "content": "The costs for elective cholecystectomies were measured 1955, 1965 and 1975. The average length of stay decreased by 25% between 1955 and 1965 and with the same amount between 1965 and 1975. In spite of these marked reductions in the average length of stay there was only a significant decrease in costs between 1955 and 1965 but not between 1965 and 1975.", "contents": "Changes in the costs of elective cholecystectomies, 1955-1965-1975. The costs for elective cholecystectomies were measured 1955, 1965 and 1975. The average length of stay decreased by 25% between 1955 and 1965 and with the same amount between 1965 and 1975. In spite of these marked reductions in the average length of stay there was only a significant decrease in costs between 1955 and 1965 but not between 1965 and 1975.", "PMID": 443900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6391", "title": "Non-operative differentiation between pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis.", "content": "Eighty-five of 186 patients investigated for suspected pancreatic cancer had an unequivocal final diagnosis of either pancreatic cancer (58 patients) or chronic pancreatitis (27 patients). They had been studied prospectively using ultrasonography, computerized tomography, radionuclide scanning, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), selective celiac and superior mesenteric angiography, duodenal drainage studies, cytologic studies, serum carcinoembryonic antigen assay, and pancreatic oncofetal antigen assay, The results were compared to determine which test would most frequently and reliably differentiate between pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis in a patient believed to have one or other disease. Criteria for interpreting results, first for highest rate of correct diagnoses, and second for highest accuracy were derived. Applying these criteria, ultrasonography achieved the highest rate of correct diagnoses (97% of patients diagnosed with 84% accuracy). ERCP, duodenal drainage studies, and cytology were the most accurate tests ((86% accuracy each test) but, with this accuracy, ERCP most frequently gave a diagnosis (diagnosis rate: ERCP--70%, duodenal drainage--32%, cytology--35%). The results suggest that ultrasonography is the best noninvasive test, and that a combination of ERCP, pancreatic juice assay and cytology in a single procedure may prove to be the best discriminating investigation.", "contents": "Non-operative differentiation between pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis. Eighty-five of 186 patients investigated for suspected pancreatic cancer had an unequivocal final diagnosis of either pancreatic cancer (58 patients) or chronic pancreatitis (27 patients). They had been studied prospectively using ultrasonography, computerized tomography, radionuclide scanning, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), selective celiac and superior mesenteric angiography, duodenal drainage studies, cytologic studies, serum carcinoembryonic antigen assay, and pancreatic oncofetal antigen assay, The results were compared to determine which test would most frequently and reliably differentiate between pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis in a patient believed to have one or other disease. Criteria for interpreting results, first for highest rate of correct diagnoses, and second for highest accuracy were derived. Applying these criteria, ultrasonography achieved the highest rate of correct diagnoses (97% of patients diagnosed with 84% accuracy). ERCP, duodenal drainage studies, and cytology were the most accurate tests ((86% accuracy each test) but, with this accuracy, ERCP most frequently gave a diagnosis (diagnosis rate: ERCP--70%, duodenal drainage--32%, cytology--35%). The results suggest that ultrasonography is the best noninvasive test, and that a combination of ERCP, pancreatic juice assay and cytology in a single procedure may prove to be the best discriminating investigation.", "PMID": 443902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6392", "title": "Rectal obstruction secondary to carcinoma of the prostate.", "content": "The records of 13 patients with symptomatic rectal obstruction secondary to prostatic carcinoma have been critically reviewed to provide criteria for identifying this atypical presentation. The site of obstruction varied from the anal verge to 17 cm by sigmoidoscopy. Significant clinical findings were ureteral obstruction on excretory urography in 12 of the patients, elevated acid phosphatase in eight, intact mucosa over the obstructing mass in seven and osteoblastic bone metastasis in six. Primary diagnosis was generally established by comparing histopathologically the prostate and the obstructing lesion. Colostomy was necessary in nine cases. In three patients colostomy was obviated in partially obstructing lesions by intravenous diethylstilbestrol diphosphate therapy. One patient had an inappropriate low anterior resection. Rectal obstruction is most commonly due to primary adenocarcinoma. Occasionally the obstruction is secondary to prostatic carcinoma masquerading as an intrinsic rectal cancer. Identification of the true nature of the illness is essential for proper treatment.", "contents": "Rectal obstruction secondary to carcinoma of the prostate. The records of 13 patients with symptomatic rectal obstruction secondary to prostatic carcinoma have been critically reviewed to provide criteria for identifying this atypical presentation. The site of obstruction varied from the anal verge to 17 cm by sigmoidoscopy. Significant clinical findings were ureteral obstruction on excretory urography in 12 of the patients, elevated acid phosphatase in eight, intact mucosa over the obstructing mass in seven and osteoblastic bone metastasis in six. Primary diagnosis was generally established by comparing histopathologically the prostate and the obstructing lesion. Colostomy was necessary in nine cases. In three patients colostomy was obviated in partially obstructing lesions by intravenous diethylstilbestrol diphosphate therapy. One patient had an inappropriate low anterior resection. Rectal obstruction is most commonly due to primary adenocarcinoma. Occasionally the obstruction is secondary to prostatic carcinoma masquerading as an intrinsic rectal cancer. Identification of the true nature of the illness is essential for proper treatment.", "PMID": 443903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6393", "title": "Pseudomembranous enterocolitis in adults.", "content": "Twenty-one patients with pseudomembranous enterocolitis were seen over a 17 year period. Major inciting factors appeared to be an antecedent operation or a serious medical illness. The most common symptoms were fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain. The most commonly involved organ was the colon. The diagnosis was missed in the majority of patients. Neither conservative treatment or surgical treatment were successful. Awareness of the disease and its course will lead to earlier diagnosis and hopefully to a higher cure rate.", "contents": "Pseudomembranous enterocolitis in adults. Twenty-one patients with pseudomembranous enterocolitis were seen over a 17 year period. Major inciting factors appeared to be an antecedent operation or a serious medical illness. The most common symptoms were fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain. The most commonly involved organ was the colon. The diagnosis was missed in the majority of patients. Neither conservative treatment or surgical treatment were successful. Awareness of the disease and its course will lead to earlier diagnosis and hopefully to a higher cure rate.", "PMID": 443904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6394", "title": "The clinical correlation of an autopsy study of recurrent colorectal cancer.", "content": "The complete autopsies of 145 patients dying of colorectal cancer are reviewed. Isolated local or distant metastases are infrequent, compared to disseminated disease. Solitary local recurrences are most common after resection of rectal tumors. Right colon tumors spread to local and distant sites in 90% of autopsies, and to distant sites alone in 10%. Rectal tumors spread locally only in 25% of cases, to distant site alone in 25%, and to both in 50%. Regardless of the origin of the primary tumor, the liver is the most common site of metastasis, followed by the regional lymph nodes and the lungs. Two-thirds of the patients with right colon lesions died of liver metastases, and three-quarters of those with rectal tumors succumbed to disseminated disease. The current curative and palliative treatment of recurrent colorectal cancer in clinical medicine by surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is reviewed. It is suggested that an understanding of the anatomic patterns of cancer recurrence will increase in importance as advances in the modalities of treatment are made,", "contents": "The clinical correlation of an autopsy study of recurrent colorectal cancer. The complete autopsies of 145 patients dying of colorectal cancer are reviewed. Isolated local or distant metastases are infrequent, compared to disseminated disease. Solitary local recurrences are most common after resection of rectal tumors. Right colon tumors spread to local and distant sites in 90% of autopsies, and to distant sites alone in 10%. Rectal tumors spread locally only in 25% of cases, to distant site alone in 25%, and to both in 50%. Regardless of the origin of the primary tumor, the liver is the most common site of metastasis, followed by the regional lymph nodes and the lungs. Two-thirds of the patients with right colon lesions died of liver metastases, and three-quarters of those with rectal tumors succumbed to disseminated disease. The current curative and palliative treatment of recurrent colorectal cancer in clinical medicine by surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is reviewed. It is suggested that an understanding of the anatomic patterns of cancer recurrence will increase in importance as advances in the modalities of treatment are made,", "PMID": 443905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6395", "title": "Ileal resection potentiates 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colonic carcinogenesis.", "content": "The effect of colonic hyperplasia produced by resection of the distal third of the small bowel (DSBR) on the development of chemical carcinogenesis of the colon by dimethylhydrazine (DMH) was tested in rats. For the most part the amounts of RNA and DNA in the small bowel were the same with the combined treatments as with either one alone; quantities of nucleic acids tended to increase only in transverse and distal colon. After 37 weeks the number of neoplasms per rat was increased six-fold by combining DSBR with DMH. Neoplasms were spread throughout the colon after combined treatment as opposed to the ascending colong after DMH alone. Postresectional hyperplasia appears to increase the incidence and distribution of colon tumors.", "contents": "Ileal resection potentiates 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colonic carcinogenesis. The effect of colonic hyperplasia produced by resection of the distal third of the small bowel (DSBR) on the development of chemical carcinogenesis of the colon by dimethylhydrazine (DMH) was tested in rats. For the most part the amounts of RNA and DNA in the small bowel were the same with the combined treatments as with either one alone; quantities of nucleic acids tended to increase only in transverse and distal colon. After 37 weeks the number of neoplasms per rat was increased six-fold by combining DSBR with DMH. Neoplasms were spread throughout the colon after combined treatment as opposed to the ascending colong after DMH alone. Postresectional hyperplasia appears to increase the incidence and distribution of colon tumors.", "PMID": 443906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6396", "title": "Respiratory failure in acute pancreatitis: a possible role for triglycerides.", "content": "Respiratory failure is a frequent complication of acute pancreatitis. Two clinical studies of this association have demonstrated a high incidence of concomitant hypertriglyceridemia. Experimental studies were carried out using an ex vivo, isolated, perfused, ventilated, canine pulmonary lobe to evaluate the effects of triglyceride elevations on pulmonary mechanics and gas exchange. Control lobes perfused for a four hour period remained stable. When 5g and 10g of triglyceride were added to the perfusate, the lobes became grossly edematous and hemorrhagic. Intrapulmonary shunting developed (23 and 46%), weight gain occurred (130 and 189g), effective compliance decreased, and the pressure-volume deflation curves became abnormal. Free fatty acid (FFA) levels increased markedly during the perfusion periods. When small quantities of FFA were infused directly into the pulmonary artery, similar changes, but less severe, occurred. These studies demonstrate that triglyceride elevations are capable of adversely affecting pulmonary gas exchange and mechanics. Such changes probably occur secondary to FFA release. These data thus add support to the concept that the respiratory insufficiency that is seen in acute pancreatitis could be mediated through triglyceride elevations.", "contents": "Respiratory failure in acute pancreatitis: a possible role for triglycerides. Respiratory failure is a frequent complication of acute pancreatitis. Two clinical studies of this association have demonstrated a high incidence of concomitant hypertriglyceridemia. Experimental studies were carried out using an ex vivo, isolated, perfused, ventilated, canine pulmonary lobe to evaluate the effects of triglyceride elevations on pulmonary mechanics and gas exchange. Control lobes perfused for a four hour period remained stable. When 5g and 10g of triglyceride were added to the perfusate, the lobes became grossly edematous and hemorrhagic. Intrapulmonary shunting developed (23 and 46%), weight gain occurred (130 and 189g), effective compliance decreased, and the pressure-volume deflation curves became abnormal. Free fatty acid (FFA) levels increased markedly during the perfusion periods. When small quantities of FFA were infused directly into the pulmonary artery, similar changes, but less severe, occurred. These studies demonstrate that triglyceride elevations are capable of adversely affecting pulmonary gas exchange and mechanics. Such changes probably occur secondary to FFA release. These data thus add support to the concept that the respiratory insufficiency that is seen in acute pancreatitis could be mediated through triglyceride elevations.", "PMID": 443907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6397", "title": "A comparison of modified radical mastectomy to radical mastectomy in the treatment of operable breast cancer.", "content": "This study compares the results of modified radical mastectomy (144 cases) to radical mastectomy (188 cases) in the treatment of operable breast cancer. Two hundred five patients had Stage I breast cancer, 60 had Stage II disease and 67 had Stage III disease (TNM System). There was no statistically significant difference in five year survival when the results of a radical mastectomy were compared to a modified radical mastectomy at any stage of disease. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of local recurrence in patients with Stage I and Stage II disease when the results of a radical mastectomy were compared to modified radical mastectomy. Those patients with Stage III disease who were treated by a modified radical mastectomy had a statistically significant higher incidence of local recurrence (chest wall and axilla) in comparison to patients treated by radical mastectomy. We have concluded that a modified radical mastectomy is the treatment of choice in patients with Stage I and Stage II diseases. In patients with Stage III disease, a radical mastectomy provides a better chance of local control of the disease but offers no increased chance of survival.", "contents": "A comparison of modified radical mastectomy to radical mastectomy in the treatment of operable breast cancer. This study compares the results of modified radical mastectomy (144 cases) to radical mastectomy (188 cases) in the treatment of operable breast cancer. Two hundred five patients had Stage I breast cancer, 60 had Stage II disease and 67 had Stage III disease (TNM System). There was no statistically significant difference in five year survival when the results of a radical mastectomy were compared to a modified radical mastectomy at any stage of disease. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of local recurrence in patients with Stage I and Stage II disease when the results of a radical mastectomy were compared to modified radical mastectomy. Those patients with Stage III disease who were treated by a modified radical mastectomy had a statistically significant higher incidence of local recurrence (chest wall and axilla) in comparison to patients treated by radical mastectomy. We have concluded that a modified radical mastectomy is the treatment of choice in patients with Stage I and Stage II diseases. In patients with Stage III disease, a radical mastectomy provides a better chance of local control of the disease but offers no increased chance of survival.", "PMID": 443908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6398", "title": "KMA-Greenfield filter placement for chronic pulmonary hypertension.", "content": "Over a period of four years, 23 patients had the diagnosis of chronic pulmonary hypertension made on the basis of elevated resting pulmonary arterial pressures above 30 mmHg mean. Clinical features included dyspnea (100%), previous thromboembolism (43%), congestive failure (39%), venous thrombosis (35%), syncope (30%), lung disease (22%), recent trauma (22%), hemoptysis (17%) and precordial pain (17%). Pulmonary angiograms showed embolic occlusion in all but four patients, who were considered to have primary pulmonary hypertension. KimRay-Greenfield((R)) vena caval filters were inserted in 18 patients. Three of them were in refractory shock at the time, and only the one who had successful intraluminal catheter embolectomy survived. These patients have been followed an average of 23 months with two embolic deaths, one from the right atrium and one bypassing a filter misplaced in the right iliac vein (overall mortality 22%). There has been no other known recurrent embolism, but one patient developed hematuria from the filter. The five patients who did not receive a filter have all died after intervals up to 18 months. Recurrent thromboembolism was documented in three and suspected in one patient with known embolic disease who died suddenly. Regardless of etiologic factors, pulmonary hypertension with cor pulmonale is associated with a high incidence of fatal thromboembolism. In our experience, maximal protection is afforded by long-term anticoagulation therapy and the placement of a venacaval filter.", "contents": "KMA-Greenfield filter placement for chronic pulmonary hypertension. Over a period of four years, 23 patients had the diagnosis of chronic pulmonary hypertension made on the basis of elevated resting pulmonary arterial pressures above 30 mmHg mean. Clinical features included dyspnea (100%), previous thromboembolism (43%), congestive failure (39%), venous thrombosis (35%), syncope (30%), lung disease (22%), recent trauma (22%), hemoptysis (17%) and precordial pain (17%). Pulmonary angiograms showed embolic occlusion in all but four patients, who were considered to have primary pulmonary hypertension. KimRay-Greenfield((R)) vena caval filters were inserted in 18 patients. Three of them were in refractory shock at the time, and only the one who had successful intraluminal catheter embolectomy survived. These patients have been followed an average of 23 months with two embolic deaths, one from the right atrium and one bypassing a filter misplaced in the right iliac vein (overall mortality 22%). There has been no other known recurrent embolism, but one patient developed hematuria from the filter. The five patients who did not receive a filter have all died after intervals up to 18 months. Recurrent thromboembolism was documented in three and suspected in one patient with known embolic disease who died suddenly. Regardless of etiologic factors, pulmonary hypertension with cor pulmonale is associated with a high incidence of fatal thromboembolism. In our experience, maximal protection is afforded by long-term anticoagulation therapy and the placement of a venacaval filter.", "PMID": 443909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6399", "title": "Carotid sinus syndrome: treatment by carotid sinus denervation.", "content": "Hypersensitive carotid sinus is a rare cause of spontaneous syncopal attacks. It must be differentiated from the other more common causes, such as intrinsic cardiac disease, vasovagal responses, postural hypotension and cerebrovascular insufficiency, although it may accompany these conditions. The definition of carotid sinus syncope is syncope elicited by stimulation of a hypersensitive carotid sinus. Nineteen patients with carotid sinus syncope were treated by carotid sinus denervation. Ages ranged from 48 to 83 with a mean of 65.5 years. Symptoms of marked dizziness or syncope were reproduced by gentle compression over the carotid bifurcation, while ECG monitoring revealed bradycardia or transient asystole. Seventeen patients had carotid arteriograms, eleven of which were normal. One patient had stenosis of the external carotid artery, while five had stenosis of the internal carotid. The right carotid sinus was involved in ten patients, the left in three and both sides in six. All patients underwent unilateral or bilateral carotid sinus denervation. Five patients with internal carotid stenosis had concomitant carotid endarterectomy. Complete relief of symptoms or marked improvement was noted in all but one patient. Postoperative follow-up ranged up to 15 years. Carotid sinus denervation is a simple, effective method of treating this disorder.", "contents": "Carotid sinus syndrome: treatment by carotid sinus denervation. Hypersensitive carotid sinus is a rare cause of spontaneous syncopal attacks. It must be differentiated from the other more common causes, such as intrinsic cardiac disease, vasovagal responses, postural hypotension and cerebrovascular insufficiency, although it may accompany these conditions. The definition of carotid sinus syncope is syncope elicited by stimulation of a hypersensitive carotid sinus. Nineteen patients with carotid sinus syncope were treated by carotid sinus denervation. Ages ranged from 48 to 83 with a mean of 65.5 years. Symptoms of marked dizziness or syncope were reproduced by gentle compression over the carotid bifurcation, while ECG monitoring revealed bradycardia or transient asystole. Seventeen patients had carotid arteriograms, eleven of which were normal. One patient had stenosis of the external carotid artery, while five had stenosis of the internal carotid. The right carotid sinus was involved in ten patients, the left in three and both sides in six. All patients underwent unilateral or bilateral carotid sinus denervation. Five patients with internal carotid stenosis had concomitant carotid endarterectomy. Complete relief of symptoms or marked improvement was noted in all but one patient. Postoperative follow-up ranged up to 15 years. Carotid sinus denervation is a simple, effective method of treating this disorder.", "PMID": 443910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6400", "title": "New techniques of gastrointestinal anastomoses with the EEA stapler.", "content": "A new instrument for accomplishing inverted stapled anastomoses in the gastrointestinal tract is described. Side-to-side, end-to-side and end-to-end anastomoses can be performed. Techniques developed for utilization of the instrument in virtually all gastrointestinal anastomoses are described. In most instances a proximal or distal enterotomy is required. Experience with 57 anastomoses in 42 patients is reported. One leak occurred; no other complications not recognized intraoperatively were observed. Anastomoses completed included gastroduodenostomy, gastrojejunostomy, cholecystojejunostomy, colocolostomy and ileocolostomy. Hazards and complications associated with the use of the instrument are described. It should be used only after the surgeon has acquired the skills to operate the instrument properly. The instrument saves time, creates better anastomoses than can be obtained by hand sewing and is extremely versatile. It may permit safer anastomoses in adverse conditions, such as in obstruction and peritonitis. The instrument opens new horizons in gastrointestinal surgery.", "contents": "New techniques of gastrointestinal anastomoses with the EEA stapler. A new instrument for accomplishing inverted stapled anastomoses in the gastrointestinal tract is described. Side-to-side, end-to-side and end-to-end anastomoses can be performed. Techniques developed for utilization of the instrument in virtually all gastrointestinal anastomoses are described. In most instances a proximal or distal enterotomy is required. Experience with 57 anastomoses in 42 patients is reported. One leak occurred; no other complications not recognized intraoperatively were observed. Anastomoses completed included gastroduodenostomy, gastrojejunostomy, cholecystojejunostomy, colocolostomy and ileocolostomy. Hazards and complications associated with the use of the instrument are described. It should be used only after the surgeon has acquired the skills to operate the instrument properly. The instrument saves time, creates better anastomoses than can be obtained by hand sewing and is extremely versatile. It may permit safer anastomoses in adverse conditions, such as in obstruction and peritonitis. The instrument opens new horizons in gastrointestinal surgery.", "PMID": 443911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6401", "title": "Intubation injuries of the trachea in children. Management and prevention.", "content": "The problem of intubation injuries of the trachea in children has been summarized. Preventive measures designed to protect the trachea from injury have been outlined. In spite of these measures, acute intubation injuries have occurred in 15 children. An aggressive approach combining bronchoscopic evaluation, intratracheal injection of steroids, tracheal stenting with an endotracheal tube and systemic steroids has been employed in the treatment of these injuries. We feel that this therapy has prevented the development of cicatrical stenosis in many of the cases and has allowed permanent decannulation of the trachea.", "contents": "Intubation injuries of the trachea in children. Management and prevention. The problem of intubation injuries of the trachea in children has been summarized. Preventive measures designed to protect the trachea from injury have been outlined. In spite of these measures, acute intubation injuries have occurred in 15 children. An aggressive approach combining bronchoscopic evaluation, intratracheal injection of steroids, tracheal stenting with an endotracheal tube and systemic steroids has been employed in the treatment of these injuries. We feel that this therapy has prevented the development of cicatrical stenosis in many of the cases and has allowed permanent decannulation of the trachea.", "PMID": 443912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6402", "title": "Surgical experience with neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NNE).", "content": "Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis, a highly lethal disorder of premature infants, is a common occurrence in newborn care units. This report details operative experience with 33 infants over the past seven years. During this time many more infants with NNE have recovered with supportive therapy. All patients are treated on a standard protocol of therapy and monitoring designed to select those with signs of continuing clinical deterioration. Therefore, those coming to operation had additional complications, such as perforation, intestinal gangrene or stenosis. This protocol is described. The 33 infants, averaging less than 4 lbs., developed NNE within five days of birth. Perforation and signs of continued clinical deterioration were the indications for operation; severe sepsis and clotting abnormalities were the rule. The overall mortality was 40% but included six infants with total bowel necrosis who had laparotomy alone. Five patients had intestinal or colonic resection with primary anastomosis, with two leaks leading to death. Twenty-one patients had staged resection with delayed anastomosis and only four deaths. Thus 27 determinative cases had a 26% mortality, and the recent group with staged resection had a 19% mortality. The essentials of pre-, intra- and postoperative management are detailed, as well as pathology and bacteriologic data. Most infants had temporary malabsorption requiring parenteral nutrition and special diets. Long-term results are gratifying.", "contents": "Surgical experience with neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NNE). Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis, a highly lethal disorder of premature infants, is a common occurrence in newborn care units. This report details operative experience with 33 infants over the past seven years. During this time many more infants with NNE have recovered with supportive therapy. All patients are treated on a standard protocol of therapy and monitoring designed to select those with signs of continuing clinical deterioration. Therefore, those coming to operation had additional complications, such as perforation, intestinal gangrene or stenosis. This protocol is described. The 33 infants, averaging less than 4 lbs., developed NNE within five days of birth. Perforation and signs of continued clinical deterioration were the indications for operation; severe sepsis and clotting abnormalities were the rule. The overall mortality was 40% but included six infants with total bowel necrosis who had laparotomy alone. Five patients had intestinal or colonic resection with primary anastomosis, with two leaks leading to death. Twenty-one patients had staged resection with delayed anastomosis and only four deaths. Thus 27 determinative cases had a 26% mortality, and the recent group with staged resection had a 19% mortality. The essentials of pre-, intra- and postoperative management are detailed, as well as pathology and bacteriologic data. Most infants had temporary malabsorption requiring parenteral nutrition and special diets. Long-term results are gratifying.", "PMID": 443913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6403", "title": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Spontaneous regression of advanced intra-abdominal metastases with 20 year survival.", "content": "A 35-year-old man with the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome who is alive and well 20 years following diagnosis at age 15, is represented. At the initial operation for a bleeding duodenal ulcer a ZE tumor of the pancreas also was excised. After two additional ineffective ulcer operations, total gastrectomy was performed. At that time, retroperitoneal and peripancreatic metastases were noted, and several were removed. Three years later at laparotomy, extensive hepatic metastases were biopsied as well. Spontaneous remission occurred and when re-explored at age 34, after 14 years, no metastases were identifiable in any area. The serum gastrin level has remained elevated, casting doubt upon its value as a criterion for evaluation of tumor recurrence or activity. Other additional interesting aspects are discussed. The importance of elimination of the acid-secreting cells by total gastrectomy is emphasized. The patient remains well.", "contents": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Spontaneous regression of advanced intra-abdominal metastases with 20 year survival. A 35-year-old man with the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome who is alive and well 20 years following diagnosis at age 15, is represented. At the initial operation for a bleeding duodenal ulcer a ZE tumor of the pancreas also was excised. After two additional ineffective ulcer operations, total gastrectomy was performed. At that time, retroperitoneal and peripancreatic metastases were noted, and several were removed. Three years later at laparotomy, extensive hepatic metastases were biopsied as well. Spontaneous remission occurred and when re-explored at age 34, after 14 years, no metastases were identifiable in any area. The serum gastrin level has remained elevated, casting doubt upon its value as a criterion for evaluation of tumor recurrence or activity. Other additional interesting aspects are discussed. The importance of elimination of the acid-secreting cells by total gastrectomy is emphasized. The patient remains well.", "PMID": 443914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6404", "title": "Selective treatment of duodenal ulcer with perforation.", "content": "Selective treatment of duodenal ulcer with perforation has been based on several premises: 1) The natural history of the ulcer following closure of a perforation is generally favorable with an acute and unfavorable with a chronic ulcer. 2) An upper gastrointestinal series with water soluble contrast media can reliably document a spontaneously sealed perforation. 3) With a spontaneous seal, nonsurgical therapy is an acceptable option and is preferable for an acute ulcer or a chronic ulcer with poor surgical risk. 4) The treatment of choice for an unsealed perforation of an acute ulcer is simple surgical closure. 5) The treatment of choice of perforation of a chronic ulcer with acceptable surgical risk is an ulcer definitive operation. Sixty cases of perforation of duodenal ulcer have been treated. Nonsurgical therapy was employed without complication in eight cases with radiologically documented spontaneous seal. Truncal vagotomy and pyloroplasty in 36 cases and truncal vagotomy and antrectomy in two cases were each without mortality. Four fatalities occurred among 13 cases of closure and omental patch, each a case with severe associated disease. The mortality was 6.7% among the 60 cases; 2.4% for chronic ulcer and 16% for acute ulcer.", "contents": "Selective treatment of duodenal ulcer with perforation. Selective treatment of duodenal ulcer with perforation has been based on several premises: 1) The natural history of the ulcer following closure of a perforation is generally favorable with an acute and unfavorable with a chronic ulcer. 2) An upper gastrointestinal series with water soluble contrast media can reliably document a spontaneously sealed perforation. 3) With a spontaneous seal, nonsurgical therapy is an acceptable option and is preferable for an acute ulcer or a chronic ulcer with poor surgical risk. 4) The treatment of choice for an unsealed perforation of an acute ulcer is simple surgical closure. 5) The treatment of choice of perforation of a chronic ulcer with acceptable surgical risk is an ulcer definitive operation. Sixty cases of perforation of duodenal ulcer have been treated. Nonsurgical therapy was employed without complication in eight cases with radiologically documented spontaneous seal. Truncal vagotomy and pyloroplasty in 36 cases and truncal vagotomy and antrectomy in two cases were each without mortality. Four fatalities occurred among 13 cases of closure and omental patch, each a case with severe associated disease. The mortality was 6.7% among the 60 cases; 2.4% for chronic ulcer and 16% for acute ulcer.", "PMID": 443915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6405", "title": "An interim report on parietal cell vagotomy versus selective vagotomy and antrectomy for treatment of duodenal ulcer.", "content": "This is an interim report of a prospective, randomized study involving 194 consecutive patients who underwent elective operation for treatment of duodenal ulcer. The results of parietal cell vagotomy without drainage (PCV) and selective vagotomy-antrectomy and Billroth I anastomosis (SV-A-B I) were compared. There was no mortality. Postoperatively patients were examined at two, six, 12 months and every 12 months thereafter. The two operations showed no statistical difference in the frequency of diarrhea. Dumping was less (p < .01) after PCV than after SV-A-B I. Weight loss was less (p < .01) after PCV than after SV-A-B I. There were no recurrent ulcers after SV-A-B I and five after PCV. In each instance but one the recurrent ulcer healed on withdrawal of an ulcerogenic drug. One patient required reoperation. Reoperations in the PCV group consisted of one for recurrent ulcer, one for gastric outlet obstruction and three for intestinal obstruction. The reoperations after SV-A-B I consisted of four for gastric outlet obstruction, three for intestinal obstruction, one for ruptured spleen and two for incisional hernia. PCV was technically feasible and practical to perform except in the occasional patient with severe pyloric stenosis. Obesity was never a deterrent. After PCV it is reasonable to assume that a recurrent ulcer rate in the range of 5-10% can be expected by surgeons who have been properly trained. This recurrence rate is higher than that after SV-A-B I but no higher than that encountered with TV-P. The recurrence rate is acceptable and is a fair exchange for the avoidance of dumping and weight loss that accompany SV-A-B I with significantly greater frequency and which on occasion can produce gastric crippling, although this did not occur in this study. All recurrent ulcers after PCV do not require reoperation but when operative treatment is required the patient has all the options that he had prior to PCV.", "contents": "An interim report on parietal cell vagotomy versus selective vagotomy and antrectomy for treatment of duodenal ulcer. This is an interim report of a prospective, randomized study involving 194 consecutive patients who underwent elective operation for treatment of duodenal ulcer. The results of parietal cell vagotomy without drainage (PCV) and selective vagotomy-antrectomy and Billroth I anastomosis (SV-A-B I) were compared. There was no mortality. Postoperatively patients were examined at two, six, 12 months and every 12 months thereafter. The two operations showed no statistical difference in the frequency of diarrhea. Dumping was less (p < .01) after PCV than after SV-A-B I. Weight loss was less (p < .01) after PCV than after SV-A-B I. There were no recurrent ulcers after SV-A-B I and five after PCV. In each instance but one the recurrent ulcer healed on withdrawal of an ulcerogenic drug. One patient required reoperation. Reoperations in the PCV group consisted of one for recurrent ulcer, one for gastric outlet obstruction and three for intestinal obstruction. The reoperations after SV-A-B I consisted of four for gastric outlet obstruction, three for intestinal obstruction, one for ruptured spleen and two for incisional hernia. PCV was technically feasible and practical to perform except in the occasional patient with severe pyloric stenosis. Obesity was never a deterrent. After PCV it is reasonable to assume that a recurrent ulcer rate in the range of 5-10% can be expected by surgeons who have been properly trained. This recurrence rate is higher than that after SV-A-B I but no higher than that encountered with TV-P. The recurrence rate is acceptable and is a fair exchange for the avoidance of dumping and weight loss that accompany SV-A-B I with significantly greater frequency and which on occasion can produce gastric crippling, although this did not occur in this study. All recurrent ulcers after PCV do not require reoperation but when operative treatment is required the patient has all the options that he had prior to PCV.", "PMID": 443916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6406", "title": "The timing of biliary surgery in acute pancreatitis.", "content": "The timing of biliary surgery remains controversial in patients with acute pancreatitis associated with cholelithiasis. Eighty hospital admissions for acute pancreatitis, occurring in 74 patients with cholelithiasis, have therefore been reviewed. Among 22 patients who underwent abdominal surgery during the first week of treatment, there were five deaths (23%) and four patients (18%) who required more than seven days of intensive care. Fifty-eight episodes of pancreatitis were managed nonoperatively during the first week of treatment, with no deaths, although six (10%) required more than seven days of intensive care. Biliary surgery was undertaken later during the same admission in 37 patients, with no deaths. Twenty-one patients were discharged without biliary operation, but seven (33%) developed further pancreatitis. Previously reported prognostic signs were used to divide pancreatitis into 57 \"mild\" episodes (1.8% mortality) and 23 \"severe\" episodes (17% mortality). Early (day 0-7) definitive biliary surgery was undertaken in 11 patients with \"mild\" pancreatitis, with one death (9%), and in six patients with \"severe\" pancreatitis, with four deaths (67%). In three recent patients with \"severe\" pancreatitis, early biliary surgery was limited to cholecystostomy, with no deaths. These findings suggest that although early correction of associated biliary disease may be undertaken safely in many patients with \"mild\" acute pancreatitis, early definitive surgery is hazardous in \"severe\" pancreatitis and should, if possible, be deferred until pancreatitis has subsided. In most patients biliary surgery should precede hospital discharge.", "contents": "The timing of biliary surgery in acute pancreatitis. The timing of biliary surgery remains controversial in patients with acute pancreatitis associated with cholelithiasis. Eighty hospital admissions for acute pancreatitis, occurring in 74 patients with cholelithiasis, have therefore been reviewed. Among 22 patients who underwent abdominal surgery during the first week of treatment, there were five deaths (23%) and four patients (18%) who required more than seven days of intensive care. Fifty-eight episodes of pancreatitis were managed nonoperatively during the first week of treatment, with no deaths, although six (10%) required more than seven days of intensive care. Biliary surgery was undertaken later during the same admission in 37 patients, with no deaths. Twenty-one patients were discharged without biliary operation, but seven (33%) developed further pancreatitis. Previously reported prognostic signs were used to divide pancreatitis into 57 \"mild\" episodes (1.8% mortality) and 23 \"severe\" episodes (17% mortality). Early (day 0-7) definitive biliary surgery was undertaken in 11 patients with \"mild\" pancreatitis, with one death (9%), and in six patients with \"severe\" pancreatitis, with four deaths (67%). In three recent patients with \"severe\" pancreatitis, early biliary surgery was limited to cholecystostomy, with no deaths. These findings suggest that although early correction of associated biliary disease may be undertaken safely in many patients with \"mild\" acute pancreatitis, early definitive surgery is hazardous in \"severe\" pancreatitis and should, if possible, be deferred until pancreatitis has subsided. In most patients biliary surgery should precede hospital discharge.", "PMID": 443917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6407", "title": "Surgery for chronic pancreatitis. Drainage versus resection.", "content": "A retrospective study of 49 patients with chronic obstructive and chronic calcific pancreatitis is presented. All patients were operated upon and underwent either a partial pancreatectomy or internal drainage of the ductal system into a Roux-en-Y loop of jejunum. The criteria for selection of operation are discussed, and the follow-up of the two operative groups is given. In patients selected as described, internal drainage provided better relief of pain and was accomplished with a lower operative mortality and morbidity and with less postoperative pancreatic insufficiency.", "contents": "Surgery for chronic pancreatitis. Drainage versus resection. A retrospective study of 49 patients with chronic obstructive and chronic calcific pancreatitis is presented. All patients were operated upon and underwent either a partial pancreatectomy or internal drainage of the ductal system into a Roux-en-Y loop of jejunum. The criteria for selection of operation are discussed, and the follow-up of the two operative groups is given. In patients selected as described, internal drainage provided better relief of pain and was accomplished with a lower operative mortality and morbidity and with less postoperative pancreatic insufficiency.", "PMID": 443918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6408", "title": "Functional anatomy of haploid and diploid rabbit spermatozoa.", "content": "Ultrastructural studies of surface replicas of haploid and diploid rabbit spermatozoa after treatment with various chemical media have shown that the various structural components of the diploid sperm head possess the same stabilities and labilities as those of the haploid. Therefore, at least in terms of functional anatomy, diploid rabbit spermatozoa should be capable of penetrating the egg investments and undergoing syngamy.", "contents": "Functional anatomy of haploid and diploid rabbit spermatozoa. Ultrastructural studies of surface replicas of haploid and diploid rabbit spermatozoa after treatment with various chemical media have shown that the various structural components of the diploid sperm head possess the same stabilities and labilities as those of the haploid. Therefore, at least in terms of functional anatomy, diploid rabbit spermatozoa should be capable of penetrating the egg investments and undergoing syngamy.", "PMID": 443919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6409", "title": "Ethanol and sulfamethoxazole for functional evaluation of male accessory glands.", "content": "The secretory function of male accessory glands was tested with two chemical markers, ethanol and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ). Fifty-eight men ingested 70 ml of 40% ethanol; ethanol reached a peak in the blood and prostatic fluid within 0.5 hr, which was sustained for 2 hr. Twenty-one men ingested 1.6 g of SMZ; SMZ reached a peak in serum and semen 4 hr after ingestion and was sustained in semen for 24 hr. Ethanol and SMZ were excreted equally by the prostate and seminal vesicle. Pathologies of the prostate were not correlated with either ethanol or SMZ secretion.", "contents": "Ethanol and sulfamethoxazole for functional evaluation of male accessory glands. The secretory function of male accessory glands was tested with two chemical markers, ethanol and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ). Fifty-eight men ingested 70 ml of 40% ethanol; ethanol reached a peak in the blood and prostatic fluid within 0.5 hr, which was sustained for 2 hr. Twenty-one men ingested 1.6 g of SMZ; SMZ reached a peak in serum and semen 4 hr after ingestion and was sustained in semen for 24 hr. Ethanol and SMZ were excreted equally by the prostate and seminal vesicle. Pathologies of the prostate were not correlated with either ethanol or SMZ secretion.", "PMID": 443920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6410", "title": "Relationship of seminal plasma testosterone and dihydrotestosterone to sperm count and motility in man.", "content": "A radioimmunoassay previously described for serum T and DHT was adapted for use in the measurement of these hormones in seminal plasma. The seminal plasmas of 273 semen specimens were assayed for T and DHT concentration. Mean levels of these hormones for various sperm count and sperm motility categories were determined. We found that: (1) the DHT level of the azoospermic group was significantly lower than all other groups; (2) the T level of the group whose mean sperm count exceeded 40 x 10(6)/ml was higher than that of all other groups; (3) the DHT level of the group with absent sperm motility was lower than the level of all other groups; and (4) changes in sperm motility were not accompanied by changes in T levels. We concluded that idiopathic male subfertility as evidenced by oligospermia, azoospermia, and decreased sperm motility may be related to insufficient androgen production due to a primary intratesticular defect.", "contents": "Relationship of seminal plasma testosterone and dihydrotestosterone to sperm count and motility in man. A radioimmunoassay previously described for serum T and DHT was adapted for use in the measurement of these hormones in seminal plasma. The seminal plasmas of 273 semen specimens were assayed for T and DHT concentration. Mean levels of these hormones for various sperm count and sperm motility categories were determined. We found that: (1) the DHT level of the azoospermic group was significantly lower than all other groups; (2) the T level of the group whose mean sperm count exceeded 40 x 10(6)/ml was higher than that of all other groups; (3) the DHT level of the group with absent sperm motility was lower than the level of all other groups; and (4) changes in sperm motility were not accompanied by changes in T levels. We concluded that idiopathic male subfertility as evidenced by oligospermia, azoospermia, and decreased sperm motility may be related to insufficient androgen production due to a primary intratesticular defect.", "PMID": 443921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6411", "title": "Endocrine correlates of meiosis in the male rat.", "content": "Changes in the proportion of cells within various DNA classes of dispersed testicular cells from the developing rat were monitored by microflow fluorometry and correlated with changes in the function of the pituitary (FSH), of the Leydig cells (androgens) and Sertoli cells (androgen-binding proteins, ABP). Peaks of androgens and of FSH appeared simultaneously and coincided with an accumulation of tetraploid cells and with the first appearance of haploid cells in the testis and ABP in the epididymis. Estrogen treatment (5 micrograms/day) of developing rats from day 7 completely prevented the appearance of haploid cells in the testis as well as ABP in the epididymis. In these animals the wave of tetraploid cells started and progressed normally, indicating that transformation and progression of germinal cells to the stage of the primary spermatocytes were taking place. A combined treatment with FSH and dihydrotestosterone propionate (DHTP) resulted in a premature start of Sertoli cell secretion of ABP into the epididymis, but in a normal appearance of haploid and tetraploid cells. The time correlation between peaks in FSH/androgens, the start of Sertoli cell secretion, and the occurrence of haploid cells in the testis stresses the importance of these two hormones for normal Sertoli cell function and the importance of a functional Sertoli cell for the completion of meiosis.", "contents": "Endocrine correlates of meiosis in the male rat. Changes in the proportion of cells within various DNA classes of dispersed testicular cells from the developing rat were monitored by microflow fluorometry and correlated with changes in the function of the pituitary (FSH), of the Leydig cells (androgens) and Sertoli cells (androgen-binding proteins, ABP). Peaks of androgens and of FSH appeared simultaneously and coincided with an accumulation of tetraploid cells and with the first appearance of haploid cells in the testis and ABP in the epididymis. Estrogen treatment (5 micrograms/day) of developing rats from day 7 completely prevented the appearance of haploid cells in the testis as well as ABP in the epididymis. In these animals the wave of tetraploid cells started and progressed normally, indicating that transformation and progression of germinal cells to the stage of the primary spermatocytes were taking place. A combined treatment with FSH and dihydrotestosterone propionate (DHTP) resulted in a premature start of Sertoli cell secretion of ABP into the epididymis, but in a normal appearance of haploid and tetraploid cells. The time correlation between peaks in FSH/androgens, the start of Sertoli cell secretion, and the occurrence of haploid cells in the testis stresses the importance of these two hormones for normal Sertoli cell function and the importance of a functional Sertoli cell for the completion of meiosis.", "PMID": 443922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6412", "title": "Lifetime changes in aspartate carbamyltransferase of reproductive tissue of male rats.", "content": "Aspartate carbamyltransferase (ACTase) of the testis, epididymis, and prostate gland was determined throughout the lifetime of rats. Testicular ACTase concentration (nmoles carbamyl aspartate formed per microgram protein) peaked at about 45 g body weight, then declined. Epididymal concentration increased up to 100 g body weight and around 155 g plateaued in the caput and declined slightly in the cauda. A lifetime decline followed the maximal prostatic concentration found in the youngest test rats. Maximal total testicular activity, which occurred at 350 g, was undiminished in the oldest rats, while maximal epididymal activity occurred in the latter group. Total prostatic activity peaked at about 450 g body weight. Castration and testosterone replacement showed prostatic ACTase levels to be hormone dependent.", "contents": "Lifetime changes in aspartate carbamyltransferase of reproductive tissue of male rats. Aspartate carbamyltransferase (ACTase) of the testis, epididymis, and prostate gland was determined throughout the lifetime of rats. Testicular ACTase concentration (nmoles carbamyl aspartate formed per microgram protein) peaked at about 45 g body weight, then declined. Epididymal concentration increased up to 100 g body weight and around 155 g plateaued in the caput and declined slightly in the cauda. A lifetime decline followed the maximal prostatic concentration found in the youngest test rats. Maximal total testicular activity, which occurred at 350 g, was undiminished in the oldest rats, while maximal epididymal activity occurred in the latter group. Total prostatic activity peaked at about 450 g body weight. Castration and testosterone replacement showed prostatic ACTase levels to be hormone dependent.", "PMID": 443923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6413", "title": "Pregnancy rate after homologous insemination.", "content": "Homologous insemination (AIH) was performed in 151 patients. The pregnancy rate was 27% in 143 patients treated with the cervical cap method. In cases of large ejaculate volume the split-ejaculate technique was applied to several types of sperm quality, resulting in a pregnancy rate of 43%. Of 36 women with diminished fertility, five (14%) became pregnant. The motility of the spermatozoa was correlated with the success rate, with 30% good progressive motility thought necessary to consider insemination.", "contents": "Pregnancy rate after homologous insemination. Homologous insemination (AIH) was performed in 151 patients. The pregnancy rate was 27% in 143 patients treated with the cervical cap method. In cases of large ejaculate volume the split-ejaculate technique was applied to several types of sperm quality, resulting in a pregnancy rate of 43%. Of 36 women with diminished fertility, five (14%) became pregnant. The motility of the spermatozoa was correlated with the success rate, with 30% good progressive motility thought necessary to consider insemination.", "PMID": 443924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6414", "title": "A second look at Steinach's second procedure: testiculoepididymal occlusion in man and dog.", "content": "After advocating vas occlusion as a biological method for rejuvenating aging males, Steinach had suggested that the effect might be more pronounced if the obstruction were placed proximal to the epididymis. This Steinach II procedure has now been studied in 15 dogs and five men. Occlusion was performed at the level of the vasa efferentia, avoiding any vascular trauma. Radiological visualization confirmed a perfect block. There were no untoward reactions, such as orchitis or hydrocele. In dogs, widespread degeneration in the seminiferous tubules was evident, and the total Leydig cell volume showed an increase from 0.7 to 1.0 ml/testis. The changes, however, were not significantly different from conventional vasectomy. In men, there were considerable preexisting senile changes, and the total Leydig cell volume was already as high as 2.8 ml/testis. These changes obscured any possible effect of Steinach II operation.", "contents": "A second look at Steinach's second procedure: testiculoepididymal occlusion in man and dog. After advocating vas occlusion as a biological method for rejuvenating aging males, Steinach had suggested that the effect might be more pronounced if the obstruction were placed proximal to the epididymis. This Steinach II procedure has now been studied in 15 dogs and five men. Occlusion was performed at the level of the vasa efferentia, avoiding any vascular trauma. Radiological visualization confirmed a perfect block. There were no untoward reactions, such as orchitis or hydrocele. In dogs, widespread degeneration in the seminiferous tubules was evident, and the total Leydig cell volume showed an increase from 0.7 to 1.0 ml/testis. The changes, however, were not significantly different from conventional vasectomy. In men, there were considerable preexisting senile changes, and the total Leydig cell volume was already as high as 2.8 ml/testis. These changes obscured any possible effect of Steinach II operation.", "PMID": 443925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6415", "title": "Derivation and determination of a human prostatic epithelial index.", "content": "The approximate percentage of epithelium (Iepith) in a sample of human prostate tissue can be estimated by assaying the specific activity of epithelial marker enzymes, beta-glucuronidase or arginase. There is a good correlation between epithelial density and beta-glucuronidase activity per unit of tissue protein.", "contents": "Derivation and determination of a human prostatic epithelial index. The approximate percentage of epithelium (Iepith) in a sample of human prostate tissue can be estimated by assaying the specific activity of epithelial marker enzymes, beta-glucuronidase or arginase. There is a good correlation between epithelial density and beta-glucuronidase activity per unit of tissue protein.", "PMID": 443926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6416", "title": "[Vectorcardiogram in experimental infarct of the right posterior ventricular wall].", "content": "In 20 dogs a chemical necrosis was produced by infiltration of 80% phenol solution within the posterior right ventricular wall and the neighboring interventricular septum. Vectorcardiographic loops were obtained by the cube system in vertical and horizontal heart positions under control conditions, 90 minutes after the necrosis was produced and also after RBB was severed. In 15 dogs the RBB was injured after the necrosis was produced and in 5 previously. In all dogs direct unipolar leads (epicardial and intraventricular), thoracic and abdominal unipolar leads (MD, ME, MI) as well as standard leads were also obtained following the experimental protocol outlined above. Analysis of the changes caused by necrosis in the location rotation and voltage of the initial, intermediate and preterminal portions of the vectorcardiographic curve in the three planes (F, H and left S) permits the formulation of the following conclusions: 1) The most significant alterations were observed in the frontal and sagital planes, particularly in RF and RS loops. In most of the cases, RF and RS loops were displaced upwardly, to the left on the frontal view and slightly anterior on the sagital. The rotation changed to counterclockwise direction on the frontal view and to clockwise on the sagittal one. In a few cases, the clockwise rotation of RF loop was conserved but it was displaced above the mean value of RF curl in horizontal hearts (+ 3 degrees 30'). 2. RH loop shifted posteriorly in both vertical and horizontal heart positions. The area enclosed by centripetal anterior branch RH loop was reduced and its apex was frequently delayed by 3 msec. 3) In presence of RBBB, the alterations described above on the frontal and sagittal views were conserved in both heart positions. The only distinct behaviour was observed in the horizontal loop, in which RH loop is posteriorly located with counterclockwise rotation in the vertical hearts and anteriorly in the horizontal one. Nevertheless, the voltage of R loops increased in both positions when the necrosis was produced after the RBBB. 4) In spite of differences in thickness of the right ventricular wall between dog and man (it is thicker in the dog), we propose that alterations of RF and RS loops could be extrapolated to the human V.C.G. in order to evaluate the involvement of the right ventricle by myocardial necrosis. 5) Similar alterations of RF and RS loops were observed in the presence of necrosis of the left posterior ventricular wall. The only clue to establish a differential diagnosis is based on the characteristics of RH loop, which is more anteriorly displaced with an \"8\" aspect or clockwise rotation in the presence of left side necrosis. Both VCG and ECG appear to be helpful on the topographic diagnosis and evaluation of injured myocardium in the right ventricle.", "contents": "[Vectorcardiogram in experimental infarct of the right posterior ventricular wall]. In 20 dogs a chemical necrosis was produced by infiltration of 80% phenol solution within the posterior right ventricular wall and the neighboring interventricular septum. Vectorcardiographic loops were obtained by the cube system in vertical and horizontal heart positions under control conditions, 90 minutes after the necrosis was produced and also after RBB was severed. In 15 dogs the RBB was injured after the necrosis was produced and in 5 previously. In all dogs direct unipolar leads (epicardial and intraventricular), thoracic and abdominal unipolar leads (MD, ME, MI) as well as standard leads were also obtained following the experimental protocol outlined above. Analysis of the changes caused by necrosis in the location rotation and voltage of the initial, intermediate and preterminal portions of the vectorcardiographic curve in the three planes (F, H and left S) permits the formulation of the following conclusions: 1) The most significant alterations were observed in the frontal and sagital planes, particularly in RF and RS loops. In most of the cases, RF and RS loops were displaced upwardly, to the left on the frontal view and slightly anterior on the sagital. The rotation changed to counterclockwise direction on the frontal view and to clockwise on the sagittal one. In a few cases, the clockwise rotation of RF loop was conserved but it was displaced above the mean value of RF curl in horizontal hearts (+ 3 degrees 30'). 2. RH loop shifted posteriorly in both vertical and horizontal heart positions. The area enclosed by centripetal anterior branch RH loop was reduced and its apex was frequently delayed by 3 msec. 3) In presence of RBBB, the alterations described above on the frontal and sagittal views were conserved in both heart positions. The only distinct behaviour was observed in the horizontal loop, in which RH loop is posteriorly located with counterclockwise rotation in the vertical hearts and anteriorly in the horizontal one. Nevertheless, the voltage of R loops increased in both positions when the necrosis was produced after the RBBB. 4) In spite of differences in thickness of the right ventricular wall between dog and man (it is thicker in the dog), we propose that alterations of RF and RS loops could be extrapolated to the human V.C.G. in order to evaluate the involvement of the right ventricle by myocardial necrosis. 5) Similar alterations of RF and RS loops were observed in the presence of necrosis of the left posterior ventricular wall. The only clue to establish a differential diagnosis is based on the characteristics of RH loop, which is more anteriorly displaced with an \"8\" aspect or clockwise rotation in the presence of left side necrosis. Both VCG and ECG appear to be helpful on the topographic diagnosis and evaluation of injured myocardium in the right ventricle.", "PMID": 443928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6417", "title": "[About vectorcardiographic examination].", "content": "The clinical importance of the spatial exploration of the cardiac electrical phenomenon (vectorcardiography), which is a very useful integration of the analytical and limited electrical exploration (electrocardiography), is outlined here. Reasons inducing the mexican school to prefer the Grishman's cube method for the vectorcardiographic recordings of other more elaborate and complex systems, are explained. The former reflects in a more reliable way the sequence of myocardial depolarization and repolarization. Morphological and chronological aspects characteristic of the normal vectorcardiogram in the frontal, horizontal and sagittal planes, are described. Additionally some typical examples corresponding to the three main electrical heart positions are presented. The vertical position is frequent in children and longilineal persons, the intermediate position is common in adults and the horizontal one is observed in age people and brevilineal persons. Some vectorcardiographic aspects typical of myocardial necrosis, injury and ischemia are discussed, underlining the importance of the complementary elements given by vectorcardiography.", "contents": "[About vectorcardiographic examination]. The clinical importance of the spatial exploration of the cardiac electrical phenomenon (vectorcardiography), which is a very useful integration of the analytical and limited electrical exploration (electrocardiography), is outlined here. Reasons inducing the mexican school to prefer the Grishman's cube method for the vectorcardiographic recordings of other more elaborate and complex systems, are explained. The former reflects in a more reliable way the sequence of myocardial depolarization and repolarization. Morphological and chronological aspects characteristic of the normal vectorcardiogram in the frontal, horizontal and sagittal planes, are described. Additionally some typical examples corresponding to the three main electrical heart positions are presented. The vertical position is frequent in children and longilineal persons, the intermediate position is common in adults and the horizontal one is observed in age people and brevilineal persons. Some vectorcardiographic aspects typical of myocardial necrosis, injury and ischemia are discussed, underlining the importance of the complementary elements given by vectorcardiography.", "PMID": 443929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6418", "title": "[Role of the autonomic nervous system in early arrhythmias in acute myocardial infarct in the rabbit].", "content": "In order to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system in the incidence and characteristics of the early arrhytmias that follows myocardial infarction, we have developed an experimental myocardial infarction in rabbits by acute occlusion of the left ventricular artery. The influence of adrenergic and cholinergic suppression over rhythm disorders and hemodynamics changes after experimental infarction in the rabbit was also studied. We found that after the acute experimental infarction in the rabbit heart, arose an early stage of rhythm disorders in 60% of the animals. In a group of animals that were injected with Practolol before coronary occlusion, the incidence of arrhythmias was 25% and in a group of animals with vagotomy prior to occlussion none of them developed rhythm disorders. It was concluded that the model is highly steemed for the study of early arrhytmias and that automatic nervous system has an important role in the incidence of such arrhythmias.", "contents": "[Role of the autonomic nervous system in early arrhythmias in acute myocardial infarct in the rabbit]. In order to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system in the incidence and characteristics of the early arrhytmias that follows myocardial infarction, we have developed an experimental myocardial infarction in rabbits by acute occlusion of the left ventricular artery. The influence of adrenergic and cholinergic suppression over rhythm disorders and hemodynamics changes after experimental infarction in the rabbit was also studied. We found that after the acute experimental infarction in the rabbit heart, arose an early stage of rhythm disorders in 60% of the animals. In a group of animals that were injected with Practolol before coronary occlusion, the incidence of arrhythmias was 25% and in a group of animals with vagotomy prior to occlussion none of them developed rhythm disorders. It was concluded that the model is highly steemed for the study of early arrhytmias and that automatic nervous system has an important role in the incidence of such arrhythmias.", "PMID": 443930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6419", "title": "[Congenital intrapericardial parietal aneurysm of the left atrium. The electrocardiogram and echocardiogram as methods of diagnostic value].", "content": "A case of congenital intrapericardial aneurysm of the left atrium associated with functional mitral insufficiency is described; it was resected successfully. Clinical, radiographic, vecto-electrocardiographic, ecocardiographic and angiocardiographic findings are shown. Those are compared with those of other nine similar cases. The finding of qR or QS complexes in L-I and a VL in the electrocardiogram as a sign of left atrial enlargement and eco-fre space posterior to the left ventricular endocardium in the ecocardiogram is mentioned as useful data in the diagnosis of left atrial aneurysmal dilatation not previously reported. Considering that the surgical result is always good, it is concluded that the congenital intrapericardial aneurysm of the left atrium is a rare malformation which needs to be resected irregardless of the presence or absence of arrhythmias, embolisms or heart failure.", "contents": "[Congenital intrapericardial parietal aneurysm of the left atrium. The electrocardiogram and echocardiogram as methods of diagnostic value]. A case of congenital intrapericardial aneurysm of the left atrium associated with functional mitral insufficiency is described; it was resected successfully. Clinical, radiographic, vecto-electrocardiographic, ecocardiographic and angiocardiographic findings are shown. Those are compared with those of other nine similar cases. The finding of qR or QS complexes in L-I and a VL in the electrocardiogram as a sign of left atrial enlargement and eco-fre space posterior to the left ventricular endocardium in the ecocardiogram is mentioned as useful data in the diagnosis of left atrial aneurysmal dilatation not previously reported. Considering that the surgical result is always good, it is concluded that the congenital intrapericardial aneurysm of the left atrium is a rare malformation which needs to be resected irregardless of the presence or absence of arrhythmias, embolisms or heart failure.", "PMID": 443933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6420", "title": "[Exertion test in patients with previous myocardial infarct].", "content": "Seventy-six survivors of a prior myocardial infarction were subjected to maximal treadmill stress testing. At least two months had elapsed between the acute episode and the inclusion of the patients in the study. In 39% of the cases the infarction was located to the inferior wall of the left ventricle, in 42% it was anterior and in 18% it was both anterior and inferior. The stress test was positive in 51% and negative in 46% of the cases, while it was non-diagnostic in 3%. The high percentage of negative tests may be explained by the fact that, in these patients, the coronary obstructive lesions are limited to the vessels supplying infarcted myocardium, while the remaining muscle has an adequate coronary perfusion. The percentage of positive tests was higher in patients with anterior (59%) than in those with inferior wall infarctions (43%). In the group of patients with anteroapical aneurysms the incidence of ischemic responses to exercise was 73%. In two of these cases, there was an exercise induced elevation of the ST segment. 75% of the patients who had post-infarction angina had positive tests. Ventricular premature beats developed in 17% of the subjects during or immediately after the period of exercise. The great majority of patients showed an impaired functional aerobic capacity. In patients with coronary artery disease, the left ventricle has a diminished capacity to augment its stroke volume. In order to increase cardiac output during effort, these patients depend on early elevations of heart rate. A positive exercise stress test, in patients with prior myocardial infarction, appears to be a valuable means of identifying the existence of residual myocardial ischemia resulting from coronary lesions in other vessels. It may be a prognostic tool helping to detect the high risk subjects and it may also be used to precisely determine the effort capacity in individual subjects.", "contents": "[Exertion test in patients with previous myocardial infarct]. Seventy-six survivors of a prior myocardial infarction were subjected to maximal treadmill stress testing. At least two months had elapsed between the acute episode and the inclusion of the patients in the study. In 39% of the cases the infarction was located to the inferior wall of the left ventricle, in 42% it was anterior and in 18% it was both anterior and inferior. The stress test was positive in 51% and negative in 46% of the cases, while it was non-diagnostic in 3%. The high percentage of negative tests may be explained by the fact that, in these patients, the coronary obstructive lesions are limited to the vessels supplying infarcted myocardium, while the remaining muscle has an adequate coronary perfusion. The percentage of positive tests was higher in patients with anterior (59%) than in those with inferior wall infarctions (43%). In the group of patients with anteroapical aneurysms the incidence of ischemic responses to exercise was 73%. In two of these cases, there was an exercise induced elevation of the ST segment. 75% of the patients who had post-infarction angina had positive tests. Ventricular premature beats developed in 17% of the subjects during or immediately after the period of exercise. The great majority of patients showed an impaired functional aerobic capacity. In patients with coronary artery disease, the left ventricle has a diminished capacity to augment its stroke volume. In order to increase cardiac output during effort, these patients depend on early elevations of heart rate. A positive exercise stress test, in patients with prior myocardial infarction, appears to be a valuable means of identifying the existence of residual myocardial ischemia resulting from coronary lesions in other vessels. It may be a prognostic tool helping to detect the high risk subjects and it may also be used to precisely determine the effort capacity in individual subjects.", "PMID": 443934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6421", "title": "[Phonomechanocardiography of 141 healthy patients].", "content": "When studying 141 normal persons of both sexes we checked acoustic phenomena and measured the sistolic intervals. We discuss here the presence of blowing anorganic phenomena and sounds III and IV among the general public. We develop equations of regression to correct the electromechanic sistole (QIIA) and the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) the registered values being different from those published by other researchers. Last of all we analyse semiology and the interpretation of the sistolic phases of the cardiac cycle using them in a routinary way and stressing its value and limitations, specially when used to get a better knowledge of the state of the myocardial functions.", "contents": "[Phonomechanocardiography of 141 healthy patients]. When studying 141 normal persons of both sexes we checked acoustic phenomena and measured the sistolic intervals. We discuss here the presence of blowing anorganic phenomena and sounds III and IV among the general public. We develop equations of regression to correct the electromechanic sistole (QIIA) and the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) the registered values being different from those published by other researchers. Last of all we analyse semiology and the interpretation of the sistolic phases of the cardiac cycle using them in a routinary way and stressing its value and limitations, specially when used to get a better knowledge of the state of the myocardial functions.", "PMID": 443931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6422", "title": "[Pulmonary eosinophilia and pulmonary arterial hypertension].", "content": "Pulmonary artery hypertension is a rare feature in the eosinophilic pulmonary syndrome, it had been observed only in some cases of tropical pulmonary eosinophilia. A case of prolonged pulmonary eosinophilia with reversible pulmonary hypertension is presented.", "contents": "[Pulmonary eosinophilia and pulmonary arterial hypertension]. Pulmonary artery hypertension is a rare feature in the eosinophilic pulmonary syndrome, it had been observed only in some cases of tropical pulmonary eosinophilia. A case of prolonged pulmonary eosinophilia with reversible pulmonary hypertension is presented.", "PMID": 443935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6423", "title": "[Penicillin allergy. Immunological bases in the diagnosis and prevention of acute reactions].", "content": "Drug alergy is always a risk in Therapeutics. Penicillin allergy although less frequent than usually though, is very important because sometimes is life threatening. Penicillin allergy is an immunological phenomenon, it is possible to use in vitro and in vivo procedures able to demonstrate individual ability to develop allergical reaction, in particular to predict such severe reactions like anaphilaxis. This paper review current concepts regarding immune mechanisms for Penicillin allergy and immunological testing useful in its study.", "contents": "[Penicillin allergy. Immunological bases in the diagnosis and prevention of acute reactions]. Drug alergy is always a risk in Therapeutics. Penicillin allergy although less frequent than usually though, is very important because sometimes is life threatening. Penicillin allergy is an immunological phenomenon, it is possible to use in vitro and in vivo procedures able to demonstrate individual ability to develop allergical reaction, in particular to predict such severe reactions like anaphilaxis. This paper review current concepts regarding immune mechanisms for Penicillin allergy and immunological testing useful in its study.", "PMID": 443932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6424", "title": "[Chronometric cardiovascular examination. A clinical method to determine the duration of various circulatory processes].", "content": "In 127 cases (70 with cardiopathy, 41 with arteriopathy and 16 normals) a \"chronomethryc clinical exploration\" was performed. This procedure consists in obtaining an electrocardiogram at the same time a clinical examination is performed and in the very moment of the occurrence of a physical or oscilometric phenomenon the standardization marker of the electrocardiogram is actioned to register a mark indicating a Q-phenomenon interval. 3 of this intervals are measured for each clinical phenomenon and the two closest values are averaged. This method is based in the fact that the time of human reaction varies relatively little when 2 successive similar phenomena are appreciated (for ej.: 0.158 sec. +/- 0.036 (SD) and 0.154 sec. +/- 0.042 (SD), n = 32, P = non significant for the first and 2nd. auscultated cardiac sounds). In this way the following intervals were estimated: acustyc systole (n = 52), 2nd. sound-opening mitral snap interval (n = 17), duration of systolic cardiac murmur (n = 22), mechanic systole (n = 14), left ventricular eyection time (n = 15), and IIa-O interval (n = 17) and compared with their respectives phonographyc or apicography values with correlations coefficients of 0.58, 0.83, 0.73, 0.58, 0.70, and 0.70, respectively. The sistolic murmurs were classified in proto, meso or telesystolic and a good correlation was found with the phonography (method in 91.0% of cases). This procedure also identified correctly a left IV sound (n = 8) even in cases in which this sign formed a complex with the first heart sound.", "contents": "[Chronometric cardiovascular examination. A clinical method to determine the duration of various circulatory processes]. In 127 cases (70 with cardiopathy, 41 with arteriopathy and 16 normals) a \"chronomethryc clinical exploration\" was performed. This procedure consists in obtaining an electrocardiogram at the same time a clinical examination is performed and in the very moment of the occurrence of a physical or oscilometric phenomenon the standardization marker of the electrocardiogram is actioned to register a mark indicating a Q-phenomenon interval. 3 of this intervals are measured for each clinical phenomenon and the two closest values are averaged. This method is based in the fact that the time of human reaction varies relatively little when 2 successive similar phenomena are appreciated (for ej.: 0.158 sec. +/- 0.036 (SD) and 0.154 sec. +/- 0.042 (SD), n = 32, P = non significant for the first and 2nd. auscultated cardiac sounds). In this way the following intervals were estimated: acustyc systole (n = 52), 2nd. sound-opening mitral snap interval (n = 17), duration of systolic cardiac murmur (n = 22), mechanic systole (n = 14), left ventricular eyection time (n = 15), and IIa-O interval (n = 17) and compared with their respectives phonographyc or apicography values with correlations coefficients of 0.58, 0.83, 0.73, 0.58, 0.70, and 0.70, respectively. The sistolic murmurs were classified in proto, meso or telesystolic and a good correlation was found with the phonography (method in 91.0% of cases). This procedure also identified correctly a left IV sound (n = 8) even in cases in which this sign formed a complex with the first heart sound.", "PMID": 443937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6425", "title": "High-dose corticosteroids: their use in treating idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.", "content": "To evaluate the response of patients with idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) to high-dose corticosteroids, we have studied ten consecutive patients with this disorder. All were given 1 g of methylprednisolone intravenously each day for one week and then placed on a high-dose orally administered prednisone regimen. Four of the ten patients with idiopathic RPGN responded with a sustained reduction in the serum creatinine level of at least 50%. The patients who responded were characterized by a symptomatic illness of short duration and normal blood pressure. Renal biopsies in the responding patients showed minimal glomerular and crescentic sclerosis with mild interstitial fibrosis. The nonresponders had a long symptomatic illness with elevated initial blood pressures. The renal tissue in this group had considerable fibrosis of the crescents, glomeruli, and interstitium. The results suggest that a certain group of patients with idiopathic RPGN will improve with high-dose corticosteroid therapy.", "contents": "High-dose corticosteroids: their use in treating idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. To evaluate the response of patients with idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) to high-dose corticosteroids, we have studied ten consecutive patients with this disorder. All were given 1 g of methylprednisolone intravenously each day for one week and then placed on a high-dose orally administered prednisone regimen. Four of the ten patients with idiopathic RPGN responded with a sustained reduction in the serum creatinine level of at least 50%. The patients who responded were characterized by a symptomatic illness of short duration and normal blood pressure. Renal biopsies in the responding patients showed minimal glomerular and crescentic sclerosis with mild interstitial fibrosis. The nonresponders had a long symptomatic illness with elevated initial blood pressures. The renal tissue in this group had considerable fibrosis of the crescents, glomeruli, and interstitium. The results suggest that a certain group of patients with idiopathic RPGN will improve with high-dose corticosteroid therapy.", "PMID": 443944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6426", "title": "Enhanced cardiac effect of digoxin during quinidine treatment.", "content": "Quinidine causes an increase in the serum digoxin concentration. Three patients were studied to determine if the increase in serum concentration is paralleled by an increase in the cardiac effect of digoxin. Each patient's clinical condition and serum digoxin concentration were stable when quinidine administration was begun. In all three patients, serum digoxin concentrations increased significantly after beginning quinidine, and decreased when quinidine was discontinued. While taking quinidine, all three patients had ECG findings that suggested enhanced digitalis effect and one patient had clinical evidence of an increased hemodynamic effect. These effects paralleled the increases in serum digoxin concentration. Our findings suggest that the increase in serum digoxin concentration, which occurs after beginning quinidine, is associated with an increase in the effect of digoxin on the heart.", "contents": "Enhanced cardiac effect of digoxin during quinidine treatment. Quinidine causes an increase in the serum digoxin concentration. Three patients were studied to determine if the increase in serum concentration is paralleled by an increase in the cardiac effect of digoxin. Each patient's clinical condition and serum digoxin concentration were stable when quinidine administration was begun. In all three patients, serum digoxin concentrations increased significantly after beginning quinidine, and decreased when quinidine was discontinued. While taking quinidine, all three patients had ECG findings that suggested enhanced digitalis effect and one patient had clinical evidence of an increased hemodynamic effect. These effects paralleled the increases in serum digoxin concentration. Our findings suggest that the increase in serum digoxin concentration, which occurs after beginning quinidine, is associated with an increase in the effect of digoxin on the heart.", "PMID": 443945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6427", "title": "[Evaluation of the experience of the observer in the interpretation of myocardial scintillography with radioactive phosphates].", "content": "Two-hundred-and five myocardial scans with radioactive phosphates, performed in 185 patients interned at the Coronary Care Unit due to acute chest pain (147 myocardial infarcts: 58 coronary heart disease), were independently interpreted by six observers with different degrees of experience on the lectures of these kind of images (two nuclear physicians, two cardiologists, and two fellows of the Nuclear Medicine Unit). A series of six different grades of myocardial concentration of the radioactive phosphates, related to its osseous concentration were followed. Each observer reported the grade of concentration he found in each image. The fraction of myocardial infarcts and of coronary heart disease found by each observer in every grade of concentration were calculated. With these data, it was determined the optimal criterion level of each observer by which he attained the minor incidence of false negative and false positive results. Four observers found their optimal criterion level on 2F, where grades 0-2D are considered as negative, and grades 2F-4 are considered as positive. One observer found his optimal level at 2D (0-1: -; 2D-4: +) and other at 1 (0: -; 1-4: +. By using a decision matrix which relates results of the test with a binary outcome (normal, abnormal) to the actual diagnosis, also with a binary outcome (infarct, no infarct), the ratios for \"sensitivity\", \"specificity\" and \"accuracy\" were derived for each observer performing at his particular optimal criterion level. Our results suggests that the observer performance depends on his particular degree of experience in interpreting nuclear medical images and on his visual perception. It was concluded that it is necessary to periodically evaluate the individual optimal criterion level of the physicians in charge of the lectures of the myocardial images with radioactive phosphates, liable to shift with time in relation to the experience of the observer. The need of a more objective procedure to quantitate myocardial concentration of the radioactive phosphates is also implied.", "contents": "[Evaluation of the experience of the observer in the interpretation of myocardial scintillography with radioactive phosphates]. Two-hundred-and five myocardial scans with radioactive phosphates, performed in 185 patients interned at the Coronary Care Unit due to acute chest pain (147 myocardial infarcts: 58 coronary heart disease), were independently interpreted by six observers with different degrees of experience on the lectures of these kind of images (two nuclear physicians, two cardiologists, and two fellows of the Nuclear Medicine Unit). A series of six different grades of myocardial concentration of the radioactive phosphates, related to its osseous concentration were followed. Each observer reported the grade of concentration he found in each image. The fraction of myocardial infarcts and of coronary heart disease found by each observer in every grade of concentration were calculated. With these data, it was determined the optimal criterion level of each observer by which he attained the minor incidence of false negative and false positive results. Four observers found their optimal criterion level on 2F, where grades 0-2D are considered as negative, and grades 2F-4 are considered as positive. One observer found his optimal level at 2D (0-1: -; 2D-4: +) and other at 1 (0: -; 1-4: +. By using a decision matrix which relates results of the test with a binary outcome (normal, abnormal) to the actual diagnosis, also with a binary outcome (infarct, no infarct), the ratios for \"sensitivity\", \"specificity\" and \"accuracy\" were derived for each observer performing at his particular optimal criterion level. Our results suggests that the observer performance depends on his particular degree of experience in interpreting nuclear medical images and on his visual perception. It was concluded that it is necessary to periodically evaluate the individual optimal criterion level of the physicians in charge of the lectures of the myocardial images with radioactive phosphates, liable to shift with time in relation to the experience of the observer. The need of a more objective procedure to quantitate myocardial concentration of the radioactive phosphates is also implied.", "PMID": 443936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6428", "title": "Large bronchial casts.", "content": "Unusually large bronchial casts developed in four patients. In two, the casts were associated with pneumonia. In one, a large RBC cast resulted from a complication of fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Bronchial casts developed in an additional patient as a manifestation of plastic bronchitis. Although unusual, bronchial cast formation may complicate a number of hypersecretory pulmonary diseases. Therapy ordinarily includes specific measures to treat the underlying disease state and maneuvers designed to remove or facilitate the expectoration of bronchial casts.", "contents": "Large bronchial casts. Unusually large bronchial casts developed in four patients. In two, the casts were associated with pneumonia. In one, a large RBC cast resulted from a complication of fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Bronchial casts developed in an additional patient as a manifestation of plastic bronchitis. Although unusual, bronchial cast formation may complicate a number of hypersecretory pulmonary diseases. Therapy ordinarily includes specific measures to treat the underlying disease state and maneuvers designed to remove or facilitate the expectoration of bronchial casts.", "PMID": 443946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6429", "title": "Rapid blood pressure control with minoxidil: acute and chronic effects on blood pressure, sodium excretion, and the renin-aldosterone system.", "content": "Changes in blood pressure, heart rate, electrolyte excretion, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system were monitored before and after minoxidil was added to a regimen of a diuretic and propranolol hydrochloride in 12 severely hypertensive patients. None required more than 40 mg of minoxidil daily for control. On a constant intake, urinary sodium excretion decreased, while urinary potassium excretion remained stable. Heart rate, body weight, and plasma volume increased, while creatinine clearance did not change. Although plasma renin activity increased fourfold, the plasma aldosterone concentration did not increase. Six subjects were restudied after two months of minoxidil treatment. Although blood pressure control continued to be excellent in these subjects, plasma renin values and plasma volume had returned to pretreatment levels. These studies suggest that minoxidil rapidly and effectively lowers blood pressure. Although sodium retention accompanies minoxidil administration acutely, the effect is independent of aldosterone and may be transient.", "contents": "Rapid blood pressure control with minoxidil: acute and chronic effects on blood pressure, sodium excretion, and the renin-aldosterone system. Changes in blood pressure, heart rate, electrolyte excretion, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system were monitored before and after minoxidil was added to a regimen of a diuretic and propranolol hydrochloride in 12 severely hypertensive patients. None required more than 40 mg of minoxidil daily for control. On a constant intake, urinary sodium excretion decreased, while urinary potassium excretion remained stable. Heart rate, body weight, and plasma volume increased, while creatinine clearance did not change. Although plasma renin activity increased fourfold, the plasma aldosterone concentration did not increase. Six subjects were restudied after two months of minoxidil treatment. Although blood pressure control continued to be excellent in these subjects, plasma renin values and plasma volume had returned to pretreatment levels. These studies suggest that minoxidil rapidly and effectively lowers blood pressure. Although sodium retention accompanies minoxidil administration acutely, the effect is independent of aldosterone and may be transient.", "PMID": 443947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6430", "title": "[Isolated mitral valve substitution with Beall prosthesis. Long term results].", "content": "During a three-year period (1970 to 1973) the Beall mitral prosthesis (103, 104 & 105 series) was used in 97 patients for isolated mitral valve replacement. The early surgical mortality rate within the first 30 days of operation was 11.34%. Among the 86 survivors, 7 developed thromboembolic complications (8.14 per cent), and there were 20 late deaths. Incidence of other complications such as prosthetic malfunction and significant intravascular hemolysis are commented. The 92.42 per cent of the late survivors are in Class I or II of the N.Y.H.A. functional classification.", "contents": "[Isolated mitral valve substitution with Beall prosthesis. Long term results]. During a three-year period (1970 to 1973) the Beall mitral prosthesis (103, 104 & 105 series) was used in 97 patients for isolated mitral valve replacement. The early surgical mortality rate within the first 30 days of operation was 11.34%. Among the 86 survivors, 7 developed thromboembolic complications (8.14 per cent), and there were 20 late deaths. Incidence of other complications such as prosthetic malfunction and significant intravascular hemolysis are commented. The 92.42 per cent of the late survivors are in Class I or II of the N.Y.H.A. functional classification.", "PMID": 443938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6431", "title": "Chronic progressive coccidioidal pneumonitis. Report of six cases with clinical, roentgenographic, serologic, and therapeutic features.", "content": "Chronic progressive coccidioidal pneumonitis (CPCP) is an uncommon sequela of acute pulmonary coccidiodomycosis. Six recent patients with CPCP are described, most of whom were previously healthy. The clinical presentation was indolent, resulting in long diagnostic delays. Serial chest roentgenograms showed progressive pulmonary infiltration and sputum cultures were persistently positive for Coccidioides immitis. Serum complement fixation (CF) antibody titers were high, with five of six patients having titers greater than or equal to 1:16. No patients had evidence of extrapulmonary coccidioidal spread at time of diagnosis of CPCP, although hematogenous dissemination occurred later in one patient. Five patients received amphotericin B intravenously (greater than or equal to 30 mg/kg total), resulting in rapid clinical and mycologic cure, decline in CF titers, and roentgenographic improvement or stabilization. However, two of these five patients suffered permanent physiologic impairment. One patient refused therapy and remains clinically symptomatic, with chronic positivity of sputum cultures for C immitis and high CF titers.", "contents": "Chronic progressive coccidioidal pneumonitis. Report of six cases with clinical, roentgenographic, serologic, and therapeutic features. Chronic progressive coccidioidal pneumonitis (CPCP) is an uncommon sequela of acute pulmonary coccidiodomycosis. Six recent patients with CPCP are described, most of whom were previously healthy. The clinical presentation was indolent, resulting in long diagnostic delays. Serial chest roentgenograms showed progressive pulmonary infiltration and sputum cultures were persistently positive for Coccidioides immitis. Serum complement fixation (CF) antibody titers were high, with five of six patients having titers greater than or equal to 1:16. No patients had evidence of extrapulmonary coccidioidal spread at time of diagnosis of CPCP, although hematogenous dissemination occurred later in one patient. Five patients received amphotericin B intravenously (greater than or equal to 30 mg/kg total), resulting in rapid clinical and mycologic cure, decline in CF titers, and roentgenographic improvement or stabilization. However, two of these five patients suffered permanent physiologic impairment. One patient refused therapy and remains clinically symptomatic, with chronic positivity of sputum cultures for C immitis and high CF titers.", "PMID": 443948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6432", "title": "Hypertension continuation adherence: natural history and role as an indicator condition.", "content": "We analyzed a random sample of general medicine clinic patients to determine the natural history of newly treated hypertensive (NH) patients: discontinuation patterns, critical intervention periods, and hypertension's (HBP) utility as an indicator condition. The NH patients exhibited a 48% dropout rate in the first year and better continuation adherence than new nonhypertensive (NNH) patients. Patients with HBP and other chronic diseases had better continuation adherence than those with HBP alone, although no predictive patterns emerged. New patients displayed rapid early discontinuation, with further linear decline by four months for NNH and by eight months for NH patients. All patients showed similar subsequent falloff: linear annual decline at 13% to 36%. We conclude that discontinuation rates are unacceptably high, that interventions must be continued throughout treatment, and that HBP has limited utility as an indicator chronic disease.", "contents": "Hypertension continuation adherence: natural history and role as an indicator condition. We analyzed a random sample of general medicine clinic patients to determine the natural history of newly treated hypertensive (NH) patients: discontinuation patterns, critical intervention periods, and hypertension's (HBP) utility as an indicator condition. The NH patients exhibited a 48% dropout rate in the first year and better continuation adherence than new nonhypertensive (NNH) patients. Patients with HBP and other chronic diseases had better continuation adherence than those with HBP alone, although no predictive patterns emerged. New patients displayed rapid early discontinuation, with further linear decline by four months for NNH and by eight months for NH patients. All patients showed similar subsequent falloff: linear annual decline at 13% to 36%. We conclude that discontinuation rates are unacceptably high, that interventions must be continued throughout treatment, and that HBP has limited utility as an indicator chronic disease.", "PMID": 443949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6433", "title": "Rhinocerebral mucormycosis: premortem diagnosis and therapy.", "content": "The diagnosis of rhinocerebral mucormycosis is most often made at autopsy. We report a series of nine patients in whom the diagnosis was established premortem. Six of the patients had underlying diabetes mellitus and three had acute leukemia. Facial or ocular pain was the complaint found in all patients, and frequently was the initial symptom. The diagnosis was established by examination and culture of infected tissue obtained by biopsy. In seven patients, identification of hyphal elements in smears of biopsy material allowed the immediate institution of amphotericin B therapy. Four of the seven patients treated with amphotericin B survived. All surviving patients had underlying diabetes mellitus and had undergone surgical debridement. Early diagnosis leading to immediate institution of appropriate therapy is most important for survival of patients with mucormycosis.", "contents": "Rhinocerebral mucormycosis: premortem diagnosis and therapy. The diagnosis of rhinocerebral mucormycosis is most often made at autopsy. We report a series of nine patients in whom the diagnosis was established premortem. Six of the patients had underlying diabetes mellitus and three had acute leukemia. Facial or ocular pain was the complaint found in all patients, and frequently was the initial symptom. The diagnosis was established by examination and culture of infected tissue obtained by biopsy. In seven patients, identification of hyphal elements in smears of biopsy material allowed the immediate institution of amphotericin B therapy. Four of the seven patients treated with amphotericin B survived. All surviving patients had underlying diabetes mellitus and had undergone surgical debridement. Early diagnosis leading to immediate institution of appropriate therapy is most important for survival of patients with mucormycosis.", "PMID": 443950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6434", "title": "St Louis encephalitis in Ohio, September 1975: clinical and EEG studies in 16 cases.", "content": "In 1975, during the largest epidemic of St Louis encephalitis (SLE) in the United States, 416 cases were diagnosed in Ohio. Persons who were admitted to two Columbus (Ohio) hospitals with suspected acute viral CNS infection were prospectively studied to define the virologic and clinical aspects of SLE. Sixteen cases of SLE were diagnosed serologically. Fifteen patients had signs of encephalitis and one had aseptic meningitis. Six patients had the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Other frequent findings included moderate peripheral leukocytosis and CSF pleocytosis, with mild elevation of CSF protein levels but normal glucose levels. Severe neurologic sequelae were infrequent. The EEG proved valuable in diagnosis and prognosis. Results of brain scans were normal. Virus in CSF or urine was not demonstrated, nor was viral antigen in CSF or urine sediments. Specific antibody was found in the sera and CSF of all patients who were tested, but interferon was not detected.", "contents": "St Louis encephalitis in Ohio, September 1975: clinical and EEG studies in 16 cases. In 1975, during the largest epidemic of St Louis encephalitis (SLE) in the United States, 416 cases were diagnosed in Ohio. Persons who were admitted to two Columbus (Ohio) hospitals with suspected acute viral CNS infection were prospectively studied to define the virologic and clinical aspects of SLE. Sixteen cases of SLE were diagnosed serologically. Fifteen patients had signs of encephalitis and one had aseptic meningitis. Six patients had the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Other frequent findings included moderate peripheral leukocytosis and CSF pleocytosis, with mild elevation of CSF protein levels but normal glucose levels. Severe neurologic sequelae were infrequent. The EEG proved valuable in diagnosis and prognosis. Results of brain scans were normal. Virus in CSF or urine was not demonstrated, nor was viral antigen in CSF or urine sediments. Specific antibody was found in the sera and CSF of all patients who were tested, but interferon was not detected.", "PMID": 443951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6435", "title": "Bacteremia and meningitis following fiberoptic bronchoscopy.", "content": "Bacteremia and meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae developed in a 52-year-old man 28 hours after an otherwise uncomplicated fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The patient responded to antimicrobial therapy and supportive care and later underwent pneumonectomy for carcinoma. This report reinforces previous observations that bacteremia may occasionally be associated with the performance of fiberoptic bronchoscopy.", "contents": "Bacteremia and meningitis following fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Bacteremia and meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae developed in a 52-year-old man 28 hours after an otherwise uncomplicated fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The patient responded to antimicrobial therapy and supportive care and later underwent pneumonectomy for carcinoma. This report reinforces previous observations that bacteremia may occasionally be associated with the performance of fiberoptic bronchoscopy.", "PMID": 443952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6436", "title": "Recovery from aplastic anemia after treatment with antilymphocyte globulin.", "content": "A 16-year-old boy with aplastic anemia that was resistant to treatment with androgens and prednisone and that had a high transfusion requirement was treated with antilymphocyte globulin. A complete normalization of the hematologic values was obtained. The result supports the theory of immune pathogenesis in some cases of aplastic anemia.", "contents": "Recovery from aplastic anemia after treatment with antilymphocyte globulin. A 16-year-old boy with aplastic anemia that was resistant to treatment with androgens and prednisone and that had a high transfusion requirement was treated with antilymphocyte globulin. A complete normalization of the hematologic values was obtained. The result supports the theory of immune pathogenesis in some cases of aplastic anemia.", "PMID": 443953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6437", "title": "Detection of adrenal tumors by computerized tomographic scan in endocrine hypertension.", "content": "Localization of adrenal lesions in various adrenal disorders can be difficult. An attempt to identify the adrenal tumors in ten patients with pheochromocytoma, Cushing's syndrome, or primary aldosteronism was made using computerized tomographic (CT) scans. The adrenal tumor was visualized in eight patients. The CT scan appears to be a promising noninvasive technique for localization of adrenal tumors.", "contents": "Detection of adrenal tumors by computerized tomographic scan in endocrine hypertension. Localization of adrenal lesions in various adrenal disorders can be difficult. An attempt to identify the adrenal tumors in ten patients with pheochromocytoma, Cushing's syndrome, or primary aldosteronism was made using computerized tomographic (CT) scans. The adrenal tumor was visualized in eight patients. The CT scan appears to be a promising noninvasive technique for localization of adrenal tumors.", "PMID": 443954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6438", "title": "Aspergillus flavipes group osteomyelitis.", "content": "Lumbar vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Aspergillus Flavipes group organisms developed in a nonchronically immunosuppressed patient. Diagnosis was confirmed morphologically and culturally from both closed needle biopsy of the vertebrae and subsequent lumbar laminectomy. The patient was treated with 3 g of amphotericin B with apparent eradication of the organism.", "contents": "Aspergillus flavipes group osteomyelitis. Lumbar vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Aspergillus Flavipes group organisms developed in a nonchronically immunosuppressed patient. Diagnosis was confirmed morphologically and culturally from both closed needle biopsy of the vertebrae and subsequent lumbar laminectomy. The patient was treated with 3 g of amphotericin B with apparent eradication of the organism.", "PMID": 443955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6439", "title": "Cryofibrinogenemia in Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura: report of a case.", "content": "A patient with Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura (HSP) had exacerbations of disease that correlated closely with the presence of cryofibrinogenemia. Cryofibrinogen was absent consistently during asymptomatic intervals. To our knowledge, such a pattern has not been described previously in typical HSP. We suggest that all patients with HSP be screened for cryofibrinogenemia during the active phase of disease to determine the incidence of this abnormality.", "contents": "Cryofibrinogenemia in Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura: report of a case. A patient with Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura (HSP) had exacerbations of disease that correlated closely with the presence of cryofibrinogenemia. Cryofibrinogen was absent consistently during asymptomatic intervals. To our knowledge, such a pattern has not been described previously in typical HSP. We suggest that all patients with HSP be screened for cryofibrinogenemia during the active phase of disease to determine the incidence of this abnormality.", "PMID": 443956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6440", "title": "Histoplasmosis and Lennert's lymphoma.", "content": "Histoplasma capsulatum was cultured from splenic tissue obtained at diagnostic laparotomy in a patient with \"Lennert's lymphoma.\" The patient had no clinical features suggesting histoplasmosis, and the organism was not seen on histologic specimens. It is suggested that mycologic cultures as well as histopathological examinations of surgical specimens be performed routinely in immunologically compromised individuals.", "contents": "Histoplasmosis and Lennert's lymphoma. Histoplasma capsulatum was cultured from splenic tissue obtained at diagnostic laparotomy in a patient with \"Lennert's lymphoma.\" The patient had no clinical features suggesting histoplasmosis, and the organism was not seen on histologic specimens. It is suggested that mycologic cultures as well as histopathological examinations of surgical specimens be performed routinely in immunologically compromised individuals.", "PMID": 443957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6441", "title": "Transient thyrotoxicosis associated with painless thyroiditis and low radioactive iodine uptake.", "content": "We describe a patient with transient thyrotoxicosis and low radioactive iodine uptake by the thyroid. Although the clinical course in this patient was compatible with subacute thyroiditis, she did not experience pain or tenderness in the neck. The use of thyroid hormones or iodine was excluded. The substantial level of thyroid antibody in serum was present during the entire phase of the disease. Histological findings on thyroid biopsy were characteristic of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Furthermore, it was remarkable that the histological abnormalities improved spontaneously during the course of several months, with the spontaneous recovery of clinical signs and biochemical abnormalities.", "contents": "Transient thyrotoxicosis associated with painless thyroiditis and low radioactive iodine uptake. We describe a patient with transient thyrotoxicosis and low radioactive iodine uptake by the thyroid. Although the clinical course in this patient was compatible with subacute thyroiditis, she did not experience pain or tenderness in the neck. The use of thyroid hormones or iodine was excluded. The substantial level of thyroid antibody in serum was present during the entire phase of the disease. Histological findings on thyroid biopsy were characteristic of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Furthermore, it was remarkable that the histological abnormalities improved spontaneously during the course of several months, with the spontaneous recovery of clinical signs and biochemical abnormalities.", "PMID": 443958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6442", "title": "Extent and severity of coronary heart disease. Determinations by thallous chloride Tl 201 myocardial perfusion scanning and comparison with stress electrocardiography.", "content": "Rest and exercise ECGs are the most widely used \"noninvasive\" tests for detecting coronary heart disease, but their sensitivity and specificity are suboptimal. Therefore, the diagnostic value of myocardial perfusion scanning using thallous chloride Tl 201 during rest and stress electrocardiography was examined in 95 patients with a chest discomfort syndrome. Overall, thallous chloride Tl 201 perfusion scanning had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 91% for coronary heart disease compared with 56% sensitivity and 86% specificity with exercise-induced ST segment depression on the ECG. Combining rest and stress ECGs resulted in a sensitivity of 71%. In patients with coronary heart disease, perfusion scanning had a sensitivity of 93% for asynergy compared with 58% for exercise-induced ECG ST depression. Rest and stress myocardial perfusion scanning with thallous chloride Tl 201 provides improved sensitivity with good specificity in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease compared with exercise electrocardiography alone.", "contents": "Extent and severity of coronary heart disease. Determinations by thallous chloride Tl 201 myocardial perfusion scanning and comparison with stress electrocardiography. Rest and exercise ECGs are the most widely used \"noninvasive\" tests for detecting coronary heart disease, but their sensitivity and specificity are suboptimal. Therefore, the diagnostic value of myocardial perfusion scanning using thallous chloride Tl 201 during rest and stress electrocardiography was examined in 95 patients with a chest discomfort syndrome. Overall, thallous chloride Tl 201 perfusion scanning had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 91% for coronary heart disease compared with 56% sensitivity and 86% specificity with exercise-induced ST segment depression on the ECG. Combining rest and stress ECGs resulted in a sensitivity of 71%. In patients with coronary heart disease, perfusion scanning had a sensitivity of 93% for asynergy compared with 58% for exercise-induced ECG ST depression. Rest and stress myocardial perfusion scanning with thallous chloride Tl 201 provides improved sensitivity with good specificity in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease compared with exercise electrocardiography alone.", "PMID": 443966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6443", "title": "Measurement of medication compliance in a clinical setting. Comparison of three methods in patients prescribed digoxin.", "content": "Medication compliance is an important medical process, and useful methods are needed to measure compliance in clinical practice. Interview, pill count, and serum digoxin concentration (SDC) were compared in 173 patients prescribed digoxin to determine (1) feasibility, ease, timeliness; (2) reasons for noncompliance; and (3) validity of interview and pill count compared with SDC. All patients were interviewed; among 33 (19%) not taking their medication correctly, nine (5%) did not know how. Pill counts were possible for 68 patients (39%). One patient had a correct pill count. Steady-state SDCs were obtained for 143 patients (83%), but were not available during patients' visits. The SDCs for 25 patients were less than 0.50 ng/mL. Interviews correlated with SDCs, pill counts did not. Pill counts and SDCs required telephoning patients before appointments. In clinical practice, interview may be the most useful methof of measuring medication compliance.", "contents": "Measurement of medication compliance in a clinical setting. Comparison of three methods in patients prescribed digoxin. Medication compliance is an important medical process, and useful methods are needed to measure compliance in clinical practice. Interview, pill count, and serum digoxin concentration (SDC) were compared in 173 patients prescribed digoxin to determine (1) feasibility, ease, timeliness; (2) reasons for noncompliance; and (3) validity of interview and pill count compared with SDC. All patients were interviewed; among 33 (19%) not taking their medication correctly, nine (5%) did not know how. Pill counts were possible for 68 patients (39%). One patient had a correct pill count. Steady-state SDCs were obtained for 143 patients (83%), but were not available during patients' visits. The SDCs for 25 patients were less than 0.50 ng/mL. Interviews correlated with SDCs, pill counts did not. Pill counts and SDCs required telephoning patients before appointments. In clinical practice, interview may be the most useful methof of measuring medication compliance.", "PMID": 443967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6444", "title": "Reduction in exertional myoglobinemia after physical conditioning.", "content": "The development of a sensitive radioimmunoassay for the measurement of myoglobin now permits the accurate determination and detection of even small concentrations of serum myoglobin. To determine the effect of exercise and physical conditioning on serum myoglobin levels, 16 male Army recruits (ages 18 to 28 years) underwent treadmill exercise and strenuous physical evaluation tests (PETs) that consisted of sit-ups, push-ups, horizontal ladder, obstacle course, and 3.2-km run. These tests and exercise were performed before and after 12 weeks of physical conditioning performed in conjunction with basic military training. Serum myoglobin levels did not rise after treadmill exercise, but they were increased greatly six hours after PET. After physical conditioning, serum myoglobin concentrations measured after the treadmill exercise remained normal and values after PET showed a significant decrease (P less than 0.001) as compared with those measured before physical conditioning (mean +/- SD, 160 +/- 81 ng/mL after initial PET vs 76 +/- 60 ng/mL after physical conditioning). These results demonstrate that physical training reduces the degree of myoglobinemia occurring after strenuous exercise, possibly by modifying skeletal muscle alterations that allow myoglobin release in this setting.", "contents": "Reduction in exertional myoglobinemia after physical conditioning. The development of a sensitive radioimmunoassay for the measurement of myoglobin now permits the accurate determination and detection of even small concentrations of serum myoglobin. To determine the effect of exercise and physical conditioning on serum myoglobin levels, 16 male Army recruits (ages 18 to 28 years) underwent treadmill exercise and strenuous physical evaluation tests (PETs) that consisted of sit-ups, push-ups, horizontal ladder, obstacle course, and 3.2-km run. These tests and exercise were performed before and after 12 weeks of physical conditioning performed in conjunction with basic military training. Serum myoglobin levels did not rise after treadmill exercise, but they were increased greatly six hours after PET. After physical conditioning, serum myoglobin concentrations measured after the treadmill exercise remained normal and values after PET showed a significant decrease (P less than 0.001) as compared with those measured before physical conditioning (mean +/- SD, 160 +/- 81 ng/mL after initial PET vs 76 +/- 60 ng/mL after physical conditioning). These results demonstrate that physical training reduces the degree of myoglobinemia occurring after strenuous exercise, possibly by modifying skeletal muscle alterations that allow myoglobin release in this setting.", "PMID": 443968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6445", "title": "Thyrotoxicosis, hypercalcemia, and secondary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "Two patients with hypercalcemia and hyperthyroidism had elevated levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). When the patients were made euthyroid with appropriate medical therapy, both the levels of PTH and calcium returned to normal. Since thyroid hormone can increase tissue responsiveness to catecholamines, and since catecholamines can stimulate PTH secretion, we postulate that the elevated levels of PTH were secondary to thyrotoxicosis. In patients with coexisting hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism, primary hyperparathyroidism should only be diagnosed when the patient is eumetabolic.", "contents": "Thyrotoxicosis, hypercalcemia, and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Two patients with hypercalcemia and hyperthyroidism had elevated levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). When the patients were made euthyroid with appropriate medical therapy, both the levels of PTH and calcium returned to normal. Since thyroid hormone can increase tissue responsiveness to catecholamines, and since catecholamines can stimulate PTH secretion, we postulate that the elevated levels of PTH were secondary to thyrotoxicosis. In patients with coexisting hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism, primary hyperparathyroidism should only be diagnosed when the patient is eumetabolic.", "PMID": 443969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6446", "title": "Sampling variability on percutaneous liver biopsy.", "content": "Sampling variability of liver biopsy was determined in three consecutive biopsy specimens obtained from each of 118 patients immediately prior to autopsy. No sampling variability was found for fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, nonspecific hepatitis, fulminant hepatitis, leukemic infiltrate, and venous congestion. Cirrhosis was diagnosed in 80% of cases at the first biopsy but in all cases after three biopsies. Chronic aggressive and chronic persistent hepatitis were diagnosed correctly in two of three cases each at the first biopsy, and in all cases after three biopsies. Metastatic carcinoma was detected in 46% of cases at the first biopsy and in 69% after three biopsies. Granulomas were missed once on the first biopsy, but found on a subsequent biopsy. The amounts of fat and fibrosis in the biopsy specimens often were not representative of the amounts present at autopsy.", "contents": "Sampling variability on percutaneous liver biopsy. Sampling variability of liver biopsy was determined in three consecutive biopsy specimens obtained from each of 118 patients immediately prior to autopsy. No sampling variability was found for fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, nonspecific hepatitis, fulminant hepatitis, leukemic infiltrate, and venous congestion. Cirrhosis was diagnosed in 80% of cases at the first biopsy but in all cases after three biopsies. Chronic aggressive and chronic persistent hepatitis were diagnosed correctly in two of three cases each at the first biopsy, and in all cases after three biopsies. Metastatic carcinoma was detected in 46% of cases at the first biopsy and in 69% after three biopsies. Granulomas were missed once on the first biopsy, but found on a subsequent biopsy. The amounts of fat and fibrosis in the biopsy specimens often were not representative of the amounts present at autopsy.", "PMID": 443970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6447", "title": "Vacuolization of the neutrophil in bacteremia.", "content": "We evaluated cytoplasmic vacuolization in the neutrophil as a marker of bacterial infection. We sought this phenomenon in 96 septic and nonseptic subjects. No significant differences in the extent of vacuolization were found among control patients, toxic patients without bacterial infections, and patients with bacterial infections in the absence of documented bacteremia. The extent of vacuolization was significantly greater in bacteremic patients when compared with all other groups, including patients with bacterial infection without bacteremia. However, extensive vacuolization in the neutrophils of some patients in toxic states not apparently caused by bacterial infection was noted. The phenomenon seems useful as a diagnostic test to identify bacteremia, although it may be less specific than previously thought.", "contents": "Vacuolization of the neutrophil in bacteremia. We evaluated cytoplasmic vacuolization in the neutrophil as a marker of bacterial infection. We sought this phenomenon in 96 septic and nonseptic subjects. No significant differences in the extent of vacuolization were found among control patients, toxic patients without bacterial infections, and patients with bacterial infections in the absence of documented bacteremia. The extent of vacuolization was significantly greater in bacteremic patients when compared with all other groups, including patients with bacterial infection without bacteremia. However, extensive vacuolization in the neutrophils of some patients in toxic states not apparently caused by bacterial infection was noted. The phenomenon seems useful as a diagnostic test to identify bacteremia, although it may be less specific than previously thought.", "PMID": 443971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6448", "title": "Clinical resistance to vasopressin. Detection of antibody by hemagglutination.", "content": "We describe a patient with hypothalamic diabetes insipidus who after 20 years became refractory to the effect of commercial vasopressin injection. Vasopressin antibodies were measured using a sensitive hemagglutination technique. Resistance was associated with a high titer of antibodies that disappeared once vasopressin therapy was withdrawn and the diabetes insipidus was controlled with chlorpropamide. Antibodies were also measured in four additional patients with diabetes insipidus while they were or were not receiving vasopressin. A patient who had received the drug for only two years already had a substantial titer of antibodies to vasopressin, but in this case the response to the hormone was not impaired.", "contents": "Clinical resistance to vasopressin. Detection of antibody by hemagglutination. We describe a patient with hypothalamic diabetes insipidus who after 20 years became refractory to the effect of commercial vasopressin injection. Vasopressin antibodies were measured using a sensitive hemagglutination technique. Resistance was associated with a high titer of antibodies that disappeared once vasopressin therapy was withdrawn and the diabetes insipidus was controlled with chlorpropamide. Antibodies were also measured in four additional patients with diabetes insipidus while they were or were not receiving vasopressin. A patient who had received the drug for only two years already had a substantial titer of antibodies to vasopressin, but in this case the response to the hormone was not impaired.", "PMID": 443972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6449", "title": "Trace element composition of ascitic fluid.", "content": "The relationship between trace elements in the serum and ascites of the cirrhotic patient was investigated because there is an interchange of protein, particularly albumin, between serum and ascitic fluid. To study this relationship, serum and ascitic fluid were obtained from 13 patients with biopsy-proved Laennec's cirrhosis. The trace element content of the ascitic fluid studied was less (22% to 73%) than that in serum. Protein fractions were all decreased in ascitic fluid compared with serum. Levels of zinc, calcium, copper, selenium in ascitic fluid correlated well with the ascitic fluid protein fractions. Thus, the trace element composition of ascitic fluid differed appreciably from that of serum, and seemed to correlate with the protein composition of the ascitic fluid in the case of zinc, copper, calcium, and selenium.", "contents": "Trace element composition of ascitic fluid. The relationship between trace elements in the serum and ascites of the cirrhotic patient was investigated because there is an interchange of protein, particularly albumin, between serum and ascitic fluid. To study this relationship, serum and ascitic fluid were obtained from 13 patients with biopsy-proved Laennec's cirrhosis. The trace element content of the ascitic fluid studied was less (22% to 73%) than that in serum. Protein fractions were all decreased in ascitic fluid compared with serum. Levels of zinc, calcium, copper, selenium in ascitic fluid correlated well with the ascitic fluid protein fractions. Thus, the trace element composition of ascitic fluid differed appreciably from that of serum, and seemed to correlate with the protein composition of the ascitic fluid in the case of zinc, copper, calcium, and selenium.", "PMID": 443973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6450", "title": "Polycythemia vera and mesenteric arterial thrombosis. A disease association resulting from decreased platelet sensitivity to aspirin.", "content": "Recurrent mesenteric arterial thrombosis developed in a 56-year-old man with polycythemia vera (PV) despite therapy with heparin sodium, warfarin sodium, and standard doses of aspirin and dipyridamole. Platelet aggregation studies disclosed a normal response to aggregating agents in the presence of blood levels of aspirin that usually inhibit in vitro platelet aggregation. Increasing the in vivo dose of aspirin was associated with inhibition of in vitro platelet aggregation and, thereafter, arterial thrombosis did not recur. This case demonstrates that some patients with PV and arterial thrombosis may be refractory to standard doses of anticoagulants and platelet antiaggregating agents.", "contents": "Polycythemia vera and mesenteric arterial thrombosis. A disease association resulting from decreased platelet sensitivity to aspirin. Recurrent mesenteric arterial thrombosis developed in a 56-year-old man with polycythemia vera (PV) despite therapy with heparin sodium, warfarin sodium, and standard doses of aspirin and dipyridamole. Platelet aggregation studies disclosed a normal response to aggregating agents in the presence of blood levels of aspirin that usually inhibit in vitro platelet aggregation. Increasing the in vivo dose of aspirin was associated with inhibition of in vitro platelet aggregation and, thereafter, arterial thrombosis did not recur. This case demonstrates that some patients with PV and arterial thrombosis may be refractory to standard doses of anticoagulants and platelet antiaggregating agents.", "PMID": 443976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6451", "title": "Acute hepatitis with bridging necrosis due to hydralazine intake. Report of a case.", "content": "A 59-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital for evaluation of her hypertension. She was treated with hydralazine; two days later a severe acute hepatitis supervened. On discontinuation of the agent, the liver damage disappeared, relapsed during inadvertent rechallenge, and healed following permanent withdrawal from the drug. Histologic study of the liver showed severe acute hepatitis with bridging necrosis (so-called subacute hepatitis). Six months after discontinuation of hydralazine, a second liver biopsy specimen showed a complete remission of the disease. This hydralazine-induced hepatitis appears to be fully reversible and to differ both on clinical and histological grounds from two previous reports documenting a granulomatous liver disease.", "contents": "Acute hepatitis with bridging necrosis due to hydralazine intake. Report of a case. A 59-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital for evaluation of her hypertension. She was treated with hydralazine; two days later a severe acute hepatitis supervened. On discontinuation of the agent, the liver damage disappeared, relapsed during inadvertent rechallenge, and healed following permanent withdrawal from the drug. Histologic study of the liver showed severe acute hepatitis with bridging necrosis (so-called subacute hepatitis). Six months after discontinuation of hydralazine, a second liver biopsy specimen showed a complete remission of the disease. This hydralazine-induced hepatitis appears to be fully reversible and to differ both on clinical and histological grounds from two previous reports documenting a granulomatous liver disease.", "PMID": 443977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6452", "title": "Histoplasmosis. Association with circulating immune complexes, eosinophilia, and mesangiopathic glomerulonephritis.", "content": "A patient with disseminated histoplasmosis, eosinophilia, and transient mesangiopathic glomerulonephritis stimulated a search for the presence of circulating immune complexes. Serum samples obtained on the fifth and 11th hospital days were strongly positive for ciculating immune complexes by both the Raji cell radioassay and the C1q solid phase assay. During the course of complete clinical recovery without therapy, both assays were weakly positive for circulating immune complexes on day 33. On day 56 they were negative. Using this case as a prototype, possible mechanisms for the renal immunopathology and the eosinophilic response are discussed with reference to the immunological perturbations thay may be observed in systemic mycotic infection.", "contents": "Histoplasmosis. Association with circulating immune complexes, eosinophilia, and mesangiopathic glomerulonephritis. A patient with disseminated histoplasmosis, eosinophilia, and transient mesangiopathic glomerulonephritis stimulated a search for the presence of circulating immune complexes. Serum samples obtained on the fifth and 11th hospital days were strongly positive for ciculating immune complexes by both the Raji cell radioassay and the C1q solid phase assay. During the course of complete clinical recovery without therapy, both assays were weakly positive for circulating immune complexes on day 33. On day 56 they were negative. Using this case as a prototype, possible mechanisms for the renal immunopathology and the eosinophilic response are discussed with reference to the immunological perturbations thay may be observed in systemic mycotic infection.", "PMID": 443978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6453", "title": "Recurrent meningococcal meningitis with occult CSF leak.", "content": "Recurrent meningococcal meningitis was associated with a slow CSF leak in a 24-year-old man. Unique features of the case included isolation of meningococcal group 29E. We speculate that an association exists between subclinical CSF leaks and sporadic cases of meningitis.", "contents": "Recurrent meningococcal meningitis with occult CSF leak. Recurrent meningococcal meningitis was associated with a slow CSF leak in a 24-year-old man. Unique features of the case included isolation of meningococcal group 29E. We speculate that an association exists between subclinical CSF leaks and sporadic cases of meningitis.", "PMID": 443979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6454", "title": "Hepatic encephalopathy precipitated by fecal impaction.", "content": "Two episodes of hepatic encephalopathy developed in a 64-year-old man with cirrhosis during the course of hospitalization. The first event was precipitated by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis; the second occurred four weeks later and was associated with a massive fecal impaction, an unreported precipitant. No other potential causes were demonstrated. Symptoms promptly resolved following disimpaction.", "contents": "Hepatic encephalopathy precipitated by fecal impaction. Two episodes of hepatic encephalopathy developed in a 64-year-old man with cirrhosis during the course of hospitalization. The first event was precipitated by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis; the second occurred four weeks later and was associated with a massive fecal impaction, an unreported precipitant. No other potential causes were demonstrated. Symptoms promptly resolved following disimpaction.", "PMID": 443980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6455", "title": "Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis from the cervix. Diagnosis by transbronchial biopsy.", "content": "A diagnosis of pulmonary lymphangitic spread of cervical cancer was established by transbronchial biopsy in a 58-year-old woman requiring mechanical ventilation. Confirmation of the clinical diagnosis allowed supportive therapy in this terminal stage of cancer. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe this result from cervical carcinoma and to establish the diagnosis of lymphangitic carcinomatosis by transbronchial biopsy.", "contents": "Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis from the cervix. Diagnosis by transbronchial biopsy. A diagnosis of pulmonary lymphangitic spread of cervical cancer was established by transbronchial biopsy in a 58-year-old woman requiring mechanical ventilation. Confirmation of the clinical diagnosis allowed supportive therapy in this terminal stage of cancer. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe this result from cervical carcinoma and to establish the diagnosis of lymphangitic carcinomatosis by transbronchial biopsy.", "PMID": 443981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6456", "title": "Characterization of the cytoplasmic fibrils of Treponema refringens (Nichols).", "content": "The cytoplasmic fibrils of Treponema refringens were studied in situ by electron microscopy of thin sectioned and negatively stained cells. From 5 to 21 parallel fibrils ran through the cell in a band adjacent to the inner side of the cytoplasmic membrane, on the inner sides of the curves of the spirochete. The nuclear areas of cells were adjacent to the fibrils. Cross sections of fibrils isolated from cells which had been lysed were polygonal and not uniformly electron dense. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of partially purified fibril preparations indicated their main component to be a protein with a molecular weight of 97,000. Fibrils were solubilized by 1% trypsin, 1% pronase, 6 M urea, 1 N HCl, 0.005 N NaOH or 1.3% sodium dodecyl sulfate. By electron microscopy of negatively stained isolated fibrils, each fibril was found to be a complex arrangement of strands rather than a single tubule.", "contents": "Characterization of the cytoplasmic fibrils of Treponema refringens (Nichols). The cytoplasmic fibrils of Treponema refringens were studied in situ by electron microscopy of thin sectioned and negatively stained cells. From 5 to 21 parallel fibrils ran through the cell in a band adjacent to the inner side of the cytoplasmic membrane, on the inner sides of the curves of the spirochete. The nuclear areas of cells were adjacent to the fibrils. Cross sections of fibrils isolated from cells which had been lysed were polygonal and not uniformly electron dense. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of partially purified fibril preparations indicated their main component to be a protein with a molecular weight of 97,000. Fibrils were solubilized by 1% trypsin, 1% pronase, 6 M urea, 1 N HCl, 0.005 N NaOH or 1.3% sodium dodecyl sulfate. By electron microscopy of negatively stained isolated fibrils, each fibril was found to be a complex arrangement of strands rather than a single tubule.", "PMID": 443989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6457", "title": "Branched chain amino acid aminotransferase isoenzymes of Pseudomonas cepacia.", "content": "Pseudomonas cepacia grew rapidly using a mixture of all three branched chain amino acids as carbon source, but failed to use individual branched chain amino acids as sole carbon source. Extracts of bacteria grown on branched chain amino acids had between 2- and 3-fold higher levels of alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent branched chain amino acid aminotransferase activity than extracts of glucose-grown bacteria. The increase in enzyme activity was due to the presence of a second aminotransferase not detected in extracts of glucose-grown bacteria. The enzyme, which presumably plays a role in branched chain amino acid degradation, had an apparent molecular weight (mol.wt.) of 75,000. The other aminotransferase was formed constitutively and apparently functions in synthesis of branched chain amino acids. It was more stable than the 75,000 mol.wt. enzyme, and was purified to homogeneity and found to be a 180,000 mol.wt. oligomer containing 6 subunits of approximately 30,000 mol.wt. Antiserum prepared against the purified enzyme inhibited its activity but failed to influence the activity of the 75,000 mol.wt. aminotransferase, suggesting that the two isoenzymes are encoded by different genes.", "contents": "Branched chain amino acid aminotransferase isoenzymes of Pseudomonas cepacia. Pseudomonas cepacia grew rapidly using a mixture of all three branched chain amino acids as carbon source, but failed to use individual branched chain amino acids as sole carbon source. Extracts of bacteria grown on branched chain amino acids had between 2- and 3-fold higher levels of alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent branched chain amino acid aminotransferase activity than extracts of glucose-grown bacteria. The increase in enzyme activity was due to the presence of a second aminotransferase not detected in extracts of glucose-grown bacteria. The enzyme, which presumably plays a role in branched chain amino acid degradation, had an apparent molecular weight (mol.wt.) of 75,000. The other aminotransferase was formed constitutively and apparently functions in synthesis of branched chain amino acids. It was more stable than the 75,000 mol.wt. enzyme, and was purified to homogeneity and found to be a 180,000 mol.wt. oligomer containing 6 subunits of approximately 30,000 mol.wt. Antiserum prepared against the purified enzyme inhibited its activity but failed to influence the activity of the 75,000 mol.wt. aminotransferase, suggesting that the two isoenzymes are encoded by different genes.", "PMID": 443990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6458", "title": "DNA-DNA homology studies among strains of Arthrobacter and Brevibacterium.", "content": "Sixteen named strains of Arthrobacter and two strains of Brevibacterium were investigated by nucleic acid hybridisation. The Arthrobacter strains show homology values ranging between 11 and 55% to the type strain A. globiformis DSM 20124 (ATCC 8010), indicating only a low to moderate relationship. Two strains of A. globiformis, DSM 20124 and DSM 20125, exhibit only poor relationship to one another (30%). Among all the Arthrobacter strains the homology data range between 10 to 70% demonstrating separate status of almost all species. Only A. polychromogenes DSM 20136 was found to be a subspecies of A. oxydans DSM 20119. The type strain of A. citreus, DSM 20133 shows a remarkable lack of homology to four other strains of A. citreus, deposited as ATCC 15170, ATCC 17775, ATCC 21040 and ATCC 21348 (11--13%) which themselves can be separated into two groups according to the homology data (24--31%). Each of the two strains of Brevibacterium share high genetic relatedness with one of these A. citreus groups (71 and 73%, respectively). According to the DNA-DNA homology data, most of the species of Arthrobacter can actually be ranged taxonomically as species.", "contents": "DNA-DNA homology studies among strains of Arthrobacter and Brevibacterium. Sixteen named strains of Arthrobacter and two strains of Brevibacterium were investigated by nucleic acid hybridisation. The Arthrobacter strains show homology values ranging between 11 and 55% to the type strain A. globiformis DSM 20124 (ATCC 8010), indicating only a low to moderate relationship. Two strains of A. globiformis, DSM 20124 and DSM 20125, exhibit only poor relationship to one another (30%). Among all the Arthrobacter strains the homology data range between 10 to 70% demonstrating separate status of almost all species. Only A. polychromogenes DSM 20136 was found to be a subspecies of A. oxydans DSM 20119. The type strain of A. citreus, DSM 20133 shows a remarkable lack of homology to four other strains of A. citreus, deposited as ATCC 15170, ATCC 17775, ATCC 21040 and ATCC 21348 (11--13%) which themselves can be separated into two groups according to the homology data (24--31%). Each of the two strains of Brevibacterium share high genetic relatedness with one of these A. citreus groups (71 and 73%, respectively). According to the DNA-DNA homology data, most of the species of Arthrobacter can actually be ranged taxonomically as species.", "PMID": 443991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6459", "title": "Interfamilial transfer of amber suppressor gene for the isolation of amber mutants of Mycobacteriophage I3.", "content": "A suppressor-containing strain of Mycobacterium smegmatis SN2 was isolated by transferring an amber suppressor carried on the plasmid of Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes ERA through transformation. Amber mutants of mycobacteriophage I3 were isolated.", "contents": "Interfamilial transfer of amber suppressor gene for the isolation of amber mutants of Mycobacteriophage I3. A suppressor-containing strain of Mycobacterium smegmatis SN2 was isolated by transferring an amber suppressor carried on the plasmid of Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes ERA through transformation. Amber mutants of mycobacteriophage I3 were isolated.", "PMID": 443992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6460", "title": "[Abnormalities associated with extrahepatic bile duct atresia].", "content": "In 19 cases of extrahepatic biliary atresia there were other malformations, 9 of which could be included in the polysplenia syndrome. The importance of these associated with malformations for the early diagnosis of extrahepatic biliary atresia and for eventual surgery for secondary portal hypertension is emphasized. The histological findings of the fibrous remnants of the biliary system are similar in those with and without associated malformations. Thus, these abnormalities do not contribute of the understanding of the pathophysiology of extrahepatic biliary atresia but they do suggest that the initial insult may occur early in pregnancy.", "contents": "[Abnormalities associated with extrahepatic bile duct atresia]. In 19 cases of extrahepatic biliary atresia there were other malformations, 9 of which could be included in the polysplenia syndrome. The importance of these associated with malformations for the early diagnosis of extrahepatic biliary atresia and for eventual surgery for secondary portal hypertension is emphasized. The histological findings of the fibrous remnants of the biliary system are similar in those with and without associated malformations. Thus, these abnormalities do not contribute of the understanding of the pathophysiology of extrahepatic biliary atresia but they do suggest that the initial insult may occur early in pregnancy.", "PMID": 443996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6461", "title": "[Therapeutic embolization of a congenital vertebral arteriovenous fistula].", "content": "An arterio-venous fistula in the neck arising from the right vertebral artery is described. Selective angiography showed a single communication. A Fogarty catheter, introduced by the occipital artery and left in situ was used as a means of embolisation. This procedure was simple and effective.", "contents": "[Therapeutic embolization of a congenital vertebral arteriovenous fistula]. An arterio-venous fistula in the neck arising from the right vertebral artery is described. Selective angiography showed a single communication. A Fogarty catheter, introduced by the occipital artery and left in situ was used as a means of embolisation. This procedure was simple and effective.", "PMID": 443997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6462", "title": "[Diet regimen and long-term prognosis in juvenile diabetes].", "content": "Two groups of diabetics who were diagnosed before the age of 15 years and followed by the same doctors of 20-25 years were compared. The frequency of complications was significantly different in France compared to that in the United States. The differences may be dietary in origin because in France the diet is high in carbohydrate and low in fat but in the United States the diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrate.", "contents": "[Diet regimen and long-term prognosis in juvenile diabetes]. Two groups of diabetics who were diagnosed before the age of 15 years and followed by the same doctors of 20-25 years were compared. The frequency of complications was significantly different in France compared to that in the United States. The differences may be dietary in origin because in France the diet is high in carbohydrate and low in fat but in the United States the diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrate.", "PMID": 443998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6463", "title": "[Hemineurine: an always present hazard in children].", "content": "Chlormethiazole, a hypnotic and sedative drug that selectively inhibits the cerebral cortex is occasionally used in status epilepticus in children. A child aged 18 months is described who developed toxic side effects. This drug, given as an alcoholic solution is highly toxic if used inappropriately.", "contents": "[Hemineurine: an always present hazard in children]. Chlormethiazole, a hypnotic and sedative drug that selectively inhibits the cerebral cortex is occasionally used in status epilepticus in children. A child aged 18 months is described who developed toxic side effects. This drug, given as an alcoholic solution is highly toxic if used inappropriately.", "PMID": 444000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6464", "title": "[Coumarin-induced fetal abnormalities and stippled epiphyses].", "content": "The ability of most anticoagulants (except heparin) to cross the placenta and the consequent hemorrhage in the fetus has been recognized for some time (3). A teratogenic effect specifically attributed to warfarin sodium is a more recent finding (7, 9, 10). The following is a case report of a newborn with clinical and roentgenographic features similar to the cases reported previously.", "contents": "[Coumarin-induced fetal abnormalities and stippled epiphyses]. The ability of most anticoagulants (except heparin) to cross the placenta and the consequent hemorrhage in the fetus has been recognized for some time (3). A teratogenic effect specifically attributed to warfarin sodium is a more recent finding (7, 9, 10). The following is a case report of a newborn with clinical and roentgenographic features similar to the cases reported previously.", "PMID": 444002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6465", "title": "[Fibrous dysplasia of long bones with remission. Apropos of 3 cases].", "content": "Three cases of fibrous dysplasia of bone, affecting the long bones of the leg are described. This condition is a clearly defined radiological and clinical entity. The tibial lesion is reminiscent of a congenital pseudarthrosis but the involvement of the fibula is a useful diagnostic clue. The most important feature of the condition is that it heals spontaneously.", "contents": "[Fibrous dysplasia of long bones with remission. Apropos of 3 cases]. Three cases of fibrous dysplasia of bone, affecting the long bones of the leg are described. This condition is a clearly defined radiological and clinical entity. The tibial lesion is reminiscent of a congenital pseudarthrosis but the involvement of the fibula is a useful diagnostic clue. The most important feature of the condition is that it heals spontaneously.", "PMID": 444008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6466", "title": "[Aortic arch interruption and cutaneous PO2].", "content": "In three neonates with cardiac failure and coarctation the cutaneous PO2 (cPO2) has been measured during the administration of a high concentration of oxygen. One sensor was fitted to the skin just below the right clavicle (preductal) and the other on one of the legs (postductal). The difference in the cPO2 provided evidence for a large right to left shunt through the duct. This finding in conjunction with the clinical syndrome of co-arctation is characteristic, in our view, of atresia of the aortic arch. The results of the test, with clinical and echocardiographic details enable more accurate decisions to be made before catheterisation and surgery.", "contents": "[Aortic arch interruption and cutaneous PO2]. In three neonates with cardiac failure and coarctation the cutaneous PO2 (cPO2) has been measured during the administration of a high concentration of oxygen. One sensor was fitted to the skin just below the right clavicle (preductal) and the other on one of the legs (postductal). The difference in the cPO2 provided evidence for a large right to left shunt through the duct. This finding in conjunction with the clinical syndrome of co-arctation is characteristic, in our view, of atresia of the aortic arch. The results of the test, with clinical and echocardiographic details enable more accurate decisions to be made before catheterisation and surgery.", "PMID": 444009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6467", "title": "[Acute polyradiculoneuritis in children. Clinical and developmental aspects. Prognostic factors apropos of 100 cases].", "content": "The main clinical features of acute infectious polyneuritis are described from a study of 100 cases. The distinction between Guillain-Barr\u00e9 syndrome and the atypical forms of the condition is arbitrary. In particular, the atypical features (pleocytosis, normal C.S.F. protein, relapses) had no influence on the final prognosis. In contrast, the severity of the distal neurological deficit, the duration of the acute illness, a late dissociation between the cells and proteins C.S.F., the age and sex were all statistically significant prognostic factors.", "contents": "[Acute polyradiculoneuritis in children. Clinical and developmental aspects. Prognostic factors apropos of 100 cases]. The main clinical features of acute infectious polyneuritis are described from a study of 100 cases. The distinction between Guillain-Barr\u00e9 syndrome and the atypical forms of the condition is arbitrary. In particular, the atypical features (pleocytosis, normal C.S.F. protein, relapses) had no influence on the final prognosis. In contrast, the severity of the distal neurological deficit, the duration of the acute illness, a late dissociation between the cells and proteins C.S.F., the age and sex were all statistically significant prognostic factors.", "PMID": 444010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6468", "title": "[A 45 X/46 X dic (Yq) puberal male without genital ambiguity. Critical study of the peculiarities of his phenotype].", "content": "A boy with a chromosomal mosaic 45 X/46 X dic Yq is described. The unusual features were a Turner phenotype with normal genitalia and he was in puberty. It is apparent that it is not possible to blame alterations in the Y chromosome when this mosaic is associated with ambiguous genitalia or the stigmata of Turner's syndrome.", "contents": "[A 45 X/46 X dic (Yq) puberal male without genital ambiguity. Critical study of the peculiarities of his phenotype]. A boy with a chromosomal mosaic 45 X/46 X dic Yq is described. The unusual features were a Turner phenotype with normal genitalia and he was in puberty. It is apparent that it is not possible to blame alterations in the Y chromosome when this mosaic is associated with ambiguous genitalia or the stigmata of Turner's syndrome.", "PMID": 444011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6469", "title": "[Acute necrosis of the thoracic esophagus and ileum complicating rheumatoid purpura].", "content": "A child is described who developed acute ischaemic necrosis of the oesophagus complicating an otherwise typical case of anaphylactoid purpura. This episode was preceded by a necrotising ileitis requiring intestinal resection and ileostomy. The histological similarities of the lesions in the oesophagus and the ileum suggest a common cause connected with the anaphylactoid purpura.", "contents": "[Acute necrosis of the thoracic esophagus and ileum complicating rheumatoid purpura]. A child is described who developed acute ischaemic necrosis of the oesophagus complicating an otherwise typical case of anaphylactoid purpura. This episode was preceded by a necrotising ileitis requiring intestinal resection and ileostomy. The histological similarities of the lesions in the oesophagus and the ileum suggest a common cause connected with the anaphylactoid purpura.", "PMID": 444012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6470", "title": "[Severity factors of poisoning in children admitted to intensive care units].", "content": "From 1964 to 1976, 854 children were admitted with poisoning to three intensive care units in Paris. The severity of the condition has been assessed in terms of the patients received: 1. observation only (67%). 2. routine intensive care (27%). 3. very seriously ill (6%). At the time of discharge, 92% of children were normal, 3% had minor sequelae, 3% had major sequelae; 2% died. The outcome was closely related to the severity of the illness. The main factors affecting the severity were: 1. The nature of the ingested substance. Poisoning with Amanita phalloides was the most serious with a high mortality. Poisoning with domestic agricultural and industrial products were more often responsible for major sequelae, particularly affecting the oesophagus, than drugs. 2. The type of poisoning. This was related to the age of the child. Iatrogenic poisoning of infants and self poisoning by adolescents were more serious than accidental poisoning in toddlers. 3. The toxicity of the ingested dose. 4. The interval between ingestion and effective treatment. Although all the factors are interrelated, each factor has its own prognostic value.", "contents": "[Severity factors of poisoning in children admitted to intensive care units]. From 1964 to 1976, 854 children were admitted with poisoning to three intensive care units in Paris. The severity of the condition has been assessed in terms of the patients received: 1. observation only (67%). 2. routine intensive care (27%). 3. very seriously ill (6%). At the time of discharge, 92% of children were normal, 3% had minor sequelae, 3% had major sequelae; 2% died. The outcome was closely related to the severity of the illness. The main factors affecting the severity were: 1. The nature of the ingested substance. Poisoning with Amanita phalloides was the most serious with a high mortality. Poisoning with domestic agricultural and industrial products were more often responsible for major sequelae, particularly affecting the oesophagus, than drugs. 2. The type of poisoning. This was related to the age of the child. Iatrogenic poisoning of infants and self poisoning by adolescents were more serious than accidental poisoning in toddlers. 3. The toxicity of the ingested dose. 4. The interval between ingestion and effective treatment. Although all the factors are interrelated, each factor has its own prognostic value.", "PMID": 444015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6471", "title": "'Schizoaffective disorder': dead or alive?", "content": "Schizoaffective disorder, traditionally classified under schizophrenia, recently tends to be subsumed under affective disorder. This article reports a study of 35 sib pairs, where each six was independently diagnosed as having schizophrenia (SC), affective disorder (AD), or schizoaffective disorder (SA). The observed numbers of same-diagnosis pairs (ADAD, SASA, SCSC) were compared with the numbers expected if the three disorders are genetically independent. The results showed a significant deficiency only in the observed number of SASA pairs, which suggests that schizophrenia and affective disorder are genetically distinct whereas schizoaffective disorder is not. To test whether schizoaffective disorder is a variant of affective disorder or schizophrenia, the observed number of ADSA and SASC pairs were compared against the expected numbers. No significant differences were found, which suggests that schizoaffective disorder is genetically heterogeneous, with at least two subtypes, one a variant of affective disorder, the other a variant of schizophrenia.", "contents": "'Schizoaffective disorder': dead or alive? Schizoaffective disorder, traditionally classified under schizophrenia, recently tends to be subsumed under affective disorder. This article reports a study of 35 sib pairs, where each six was independently diagnosed as having schizophrenia (SC), affective disorder (AD), or schizoaffective disorder (SA). The observed numbers of same-diagnosis pairs (ADAD, SASA, SCSC) were compared with the numbers expected if the three disorders are genetically independent. The results showed a significant deficiency only in the observed number of SASA pairs, which suggests that schizophrenia and affective disorder are genetically distinct whereas schizoaffective disorder is not. To test whether schizoaffective disorder is a variant of affective disorder or schizophrenia, the observed number of ADSA and SASC pairs were compared against the expected numbers. No significant differences were found, which suggests that schizoaffective disorder is genetically heterogeneous, with at least two subtypes, one a variant of affective disorder, the other a variant of schizophrenia.", "PMID": 444016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6472", "title": "Differentiation of primary affective illness from situational, symptomatic, and secondary depressions.", "content": "Analysis of family history and antidepressant drug response variables of 100 \"neurotic\" depressives followed up prospectively over three to four years disclosed that primary depressions (unipolar and bipolar) could be distinguished from nonprimary cases by (1) the early occurrence of \"pharmacological-hypomania;\" (2) family history of bipolar illness; (3) family history for affective disorder in two or three consecutive generations, especially when \"loaded.\" Although each of these variables alone occurred in only one fifth to one third of the primary group, they individually displayed better than 95% specificity for it. Thus, the confidence with which the diagnosis of primary affective illness could be made in the presence of any of these variables ranged from 88% to 100%. These findings argue for considering such nonsymptomatological variables for their potential in strengthening the phenomenologic diagnostic criteria for depressive illness.", "contents": "Differentiation of primary affective illness from situational, symptomatic, and secondary depressions. Analysis of family history and antidepressant drug response variables of 100 \"neurotic\" depressives followed up prospectively over three to four years disclosed that primary depressions (unipolar and bipolar) could be distinguished from nonprimary cases by (1) the early occurrence of \"pharmacological-hypomania;\" (2) family history of bipolar illness; (3) family history for affective disorder in two or three consecutive generations, especially when \"loaded.\" Although each of these variables alone occurred in only one fifth to one third of the primary group, they individually displayed better than 95% specificity for it. Thus, the confidence with which the diagnosis of primary affective illness could be made in the presence of any of these variables ranged from 88% to 100%. These findings argue for considering such nonsymptomatological variables for their potential in strengthening the phenomenologic diagnostic criteria for depressive illness.", "PMID": 444017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6473", "title": "Exercise and anxiety neurosis: comparison of patients with and without mitral valve prolapse.", "content": "It has been hypothesized that mitral valve prolapse may account for a substantial number of patients who have symptoms of chronic anxiety neurosis. In a previous investigation, this hypothesis was confirmed in eight of 21 patients who had anxiety neurosis. In the present investigation, we reevaluated the hypothesis that persons with anxiety neurosis have impaired exercise ability by exercising 20 of the anxiety neurotics according to a standard treadmill exercise protocol. Compared with the control group, the anxiety neurotics required less exercise to achieve an equivalent heart rate and therefore their estimated maximum oxygen consumption was less, thus confirming the hypothesis. However, this difference was due entirely to the anxiety neurotics with mitral valve prolapse, and those without prolapse did not differ significantly from the controls. This suggests that impaired exercise tolerance in anxiety neurotics may be attributable to a subgroup of these patients with mitral valve prolapse.", "contents": "Exercise and anxiety neurosis: comparison of patients with and without mitral valve prolapse. It has been hypothesized that mitral valve prolapse may account for a substantial number of patients who have symptoms of chronic anxiety neurosis. In a previous investigation, this hypothesis was confirmed in eight of 21 patients who had anxiety neurosis. In the present investigation, we reevaluated the hypothesis that persons with anxiety neurosis have impaired exercise ability by exercising 20 of the anxiety neurotics according to a standard treadmill exercise protocol. Compared with the control group, the anxiety neurotics required less exercise to achieve an equivalent heart rate and therefore their estimated maximum oxygen consumption was less, thus confirming the hypothesis. However, this difference was due entirely to the anxiety neurotics with mitral valve prolapse, and those without prolapse did not differ significantly from the controls. This suggests that impaired exercise tolerance in anxiety neurotics may be attributable to a subgroup of these patients with mitral valve prolapse.", "PMID": 444018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6474", "title": "Offspring of schizophrenics. III. Hyperactivity and neurological soft signs.", "content": "Twenty-nine male offspring of \"continuous schizophrenics\" (chronic, borderline, and chronic schizoaffective schizophrenics), plus controls, were given neurological and psychological examinations at age 7. Eight of the 29 were found to have high ratings on a factor score that was termed \"hyperactive\" (increased activity, impulsivity, distractibility, and emotional lability), and three of these boys had high ratings for neurological signs as well. These frequencies were significantly greater than the control values. Mild incoordination, such as awkwardness in performing rapidly alternating movements, was the neurological soft sign most elevated in the index group. Fifteen female offspring of schizophrenics were not found to differ from their controls on these measures. Previous studies of the childhood of male schizophrenics have found behavior patterns similar to the behavior of the boys who scored high on our hyperactive factors. It is thus likely that the \"hyperactive cases\" in this sample are even more at risk for developing schizophrenia in later life than the other offspring of schizophrenic parents.", "contents": "Offspring of schizophrenics. III. Hyperactivity and neurological soft signs. Twenty-nine male offspring of \"continuous schizophrenics\" (chronic, borderline, and chronic schizoaffective schizophrenics), plus controls, were given neurological and psychological examinations at age 7. Eight of the 29 were found to have high ratings on a factor score that was termed \"hyperactive\" (increased activity, impulsivity, distractibility, and emotional lability), and three of these boys had high ratings for neurological signs as well. These frequencies were significantly greater than the control values. Mild incoordination, such as awkwardness in performing rapidly alternating movements, was the neurological soft sign most elevated in the index group. Fifteen female offspring of schizophrenics were not found to differ from their controls on these measures. Previous studies of the childhood of male schizophrenics have found behavior patterns similar to the behavior of the boys who scored high on our hyperactive factors. It is thus likely that the \"hyperactive cases\" in this sample are even more at risk for developing schizophrenia in later life than the other offspring of schizophrenic parents.", "PMID": 444019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6475", "title": "Hyperactives as young adults: a controlled prospective ten-year follow-up of 75 children.", "content": "This study reports on a variety of outcome variables from 75 hyperactive and 44 matched control subjects aged 17 to 24 years (mean ages, 19.5 and 19.0 years, respectively). All hyperactive subjects have been followed up for 10 to 12 years; they were first evaluated at 6 to 12 years of age. None of the hyperactive subjects was treated with methylphenidate, although a subgroup received chlorpromazine or a mixture of drugs (excluding methylphenidate). The hyperactive subjects had less education than the controls and a history of more car accidents and more geographical moves. However, only a minority were still engaged in continued antisocial behavior or had evidence of severe psychopathology. No subjects were found to be psychotic, but two were diagnosed as borderline psychotic. There was evidence that hyperactive subjects had some continued symptoms from the hyperkinetic child syndrome, including impulsive personality traits.", "contents": "Hyperactives as young adults: a controlled prospective ten-year follow-up of 75 children. This study reports on a variety of outcome variables from 75 hyperactive and 44 matched control subjects aged 17 to 24 years (mean ages, 19.5 and 19.0 years, respectively). All hyperactive subjects have been followed up for 10 to 12 years; they were first evaluated at 6 to 12 years of age. None of the hyperactive subjects was treated with methylphenidate, although a subgroup received chlorpromazine or a mixture of drugs (excluding methylphenidate). The hyperactive subjects had less education than the controls and a history of more car accidents and more geographical moves. However, only a minority were still engaged in continued antisocial behavior or had evidence of severe psychopathology. No subjects were found to be psychotic, but two were diagnosed as borderline psychotic. There was evidence that hyperactive subjects had some continued symptoms from the hyperkinetic child syndrome, including impulsive personality traits.", "PMID": 444020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6476", "title": "Families of autistic and dysphasic children. I. Family life and interaction patterns.", "content": "Patterns of parent-child interaction and family functioning were systematically examined in well-matched groups of 15 autistic and 14 dysphasic children. The measures used included the Douglas 24-hour standard day analysis, the Brown and Rutter interview measure of positive interaction, the Ittleson scales (based on a four- to six-hour period of home observation, specially developed time-sampled measures of observed mother-child interaction at home), and the Eysenck Personality Inventory. The findings from all measures agreed in showing that family life and interaction patterns were closely similar in the two groups. The results were compared with those of previous investigations; we concluded that autism is most unlikely to be due to abnormal psychogenic influences in the family.", "contents": "Families of autistic and dysphasic children. I. Family life and interaction patterns. Patterns of parent-child interaction and family functioning were systematically examined in well-matched groups of 15 autistic and 14 dysphasic children. The measures used included the Douglas 24-hour standard day analysis, the Brown and Rutter interview measure of positive interaction, the Ittleson scales (based on a four- to six-hour period of home observation, specially developed time-sampled measures of observed mother-child interaction at home), and the Eysenck Personality Inventory. The findings from all measures agreed in showing that family life and interaction patterns were closely similar in the two groups. The results were compared with those of previous investigations; we concluded that autism is most unlikely to be due to abnormal psychogenic influences in the family.", "PMID": 444021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6477", "title": "The children of psychiatrically disturbed parents: differences as a function of the sex of the sick parent.", "content": "To examine the effects of the sex of psychiatrically disturbed parent on the offspring, we compared children of a schizophrenic parent, a psychiatrically disturbed but not schizophrenic parent, and a normal parent using behavioral, attentional, and neurological indices. Results of a discriminant analysis indicate that children of psychiatrically disturbed mothers have an increased sensitivity to tactile stimulation, possibly reflecting more labile autonomic nervous system functioning. In addition, children with a schizophrenic parent of either sex show evidence of neurological motor dysfunction.", "contents": "The children of psychiatrically disturbed parents: differences as a function of the sex of the sick parent. To examine the effects of the sex of psychiatrically disturbed parent on the offspring, we compared children of a schizophrenic parent, a psychiatrically disturbed but not schizophrenic parent, and a normal parent using behavioral, attentional, and neurological indices. Results of a discriminant analysis indicate that children of psychiatrically disturbed mothers have an increased sensitivity to tactile stimulation, possibly reflecting more labile autonomic nervous system functioning. In addition, children with a schizophrenic parent of either sex show evidence of neurological motor dysfunction.", "PMID": 444022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6478", "title": "Psychiatric adolescent inpatients: eight- to ten-year follow-up.", "content": "Seventy-seven adolescent psychiatric inpatients, whose index hospitalization was at a mean age of 16, were followed up for eight to ten years after discharge. The important findings at follow-up were as follows. Twelve patients had bipolar affective disorder and were severely disabled (of these, 11 had a long-term clinical course and three committed suicide). Sixteen patients had unipolar depression: five had one depressive episode and were well throughout the follow-up period, one patient had many episodes with complete remissions, and the remaining ten patients had only partial remissions and their impairment of functioning corresponded to the severity of their symptoms. One of the ten committed suicide. Eighteen (23%) patients were psychiatrically well and functioned adequately throughout the follow-up period. Five had primary depressions, five had undiagnosed psychiatric illness, and eight were diagnosed as not having a psychiatric disorder.", "contents": "Psychiatric adolescent inpatients: eight- to ten-year follow-up. Seventy-seven adolescent psychiatric inpatients, whose index hospitalization was at a mean age of 16, were followed up for eight to ten years after discharge. The important findings at follow-up were as follows. Twelve patients had bipolar affective disorder and were severely disabled (of these, 11 had a long-term clinical course and three committed suicide). Sixteen patients had unipolar depression: five had one depressive episode and were well throughout the follow-up period, one patient had many episodes with complete remissions, and the remaining ten patients had only partial remissions and their impairment of functioning corresponded to the severity of their symptoms. One of the ten committed suicide. Eighteen (23%) patients were psychiatrically well and functioned adequately throughout the follow-up period. Five had primary depressions, five had undiagnosed psychiatric illness, and eight were diagnosed as not having a psychiatric disorder.", "PMID": 444023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6479", "title": "Brief hospitalization: two-year follow-up.", "content": "This article presents the long-term follow-up effects of brief vs standard hospitalization on families. One hundred seventy-five newly admitted inpatients who lived with their families were randomly assigned to standard inpatient care, brief hospitalization followed by the availability of transitional day care, and brief hospitalization. All patients were offered follow-up outpatient treatment. Initial length of stay was 11 days for both brief hospitalization groups and 60 days for the standard group. The long-term results generally indicate little differential effect between treatments. When differences occurred, they generally favored the brief groups. For example, at one year the standard group families were judged to have a higher overall level of burden than the brief-day families. The findings suggest that patients are more likely to be rehospitalized because of their psychopathology than because of family burden.", "contents": "Brief hospitalization: two-year follow-up. This article presents the long-term follow-up effects of brief vs standard hospitalization on families. One hundred seventy-five newly admitted inpatients who lived with their families were randomly assigned to standard inpatient care, brief hospitalization followed by the availability of transitional day care, and brief hospitalization. All patients were offered follow-up outpatient treatment. Initial length of stay was 11 days for both brief hospitalization groups and 60 days for the standard group. The long-term results generally indicate little differential effect between treatments. When differences occurred, they generally favored the brief groups. For example, at one year the standard group families were judged to have a higher overall level of burden than the brief-day families. The findings suggest that patients are more likely to be rehospitalized because of their psychopathology than because of family burden.", "PMID": 444024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6480", "title": "Brief vs standard hospitalization: for whom?", "content": "An effort was made to determine patient characteristics that have differential prognostic significance, depending on treatment assignment to one of three treatment approaches: standard inpatient care (n = 63), brief hospitalization followed by day care (n = 61), and brief hospitalization without day care (n = 51). All were followed by outpatient care. Both demographically and clinically assessed behavioral variables were related to a number of outcome measures, including days in the community, clinical ratings, and family assessment. Generally, the standard treatment was inferior to the two brief treatments. Multiple previous admissions were particularly contraindicative for standard treatment. High overt anger score was especially contraindicative for brief hospitalization without day care and particularly indicative for brief hospitalization with day care.", "contents": "Brief vs standard hospitalization: for whom? An effort was made to determine patient characteristics that have differential prognostic significance, depending on treatment assignment to one of three treatment approaches: standard inpatient care (n = 63), brief hospitalization followed by day care (n = 61), and brief hospitalization without day care (n = 51). All were followed by outpatient care. Both demographically and clinically assessed behavioral variables were related to a number of outcome measures, including days in the community, clinical ratings, and family assessment. Generally, the standard treatment was inferior to the two brief treatments. Multiple previous admissions were particularly contraindicative for standard treatment. High overt anger score was especially contraindicative for brief hospitalization without day care and particularly indicative for brief hospitalization with day care.", "PMID": 444025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6481", "title": "[Cancerostatic effect of some fluorenone azomethines tested against leukemia L 1210 (author's transl)].", "content": "Eight of fifteen Fluorenone-Azomethines without alkylating function have been found effective against the leukemia L 1210. Little modifications concerning the structure of the compounds caused loss of effectiveness. It seems remarkably that one corresponding derivative with a nitrogen mustard group (4) was ineffective. Correlations between chemical structure and biological effect have not yet been found.", "contents": "[Cancerostatic effect of some fluorenone azomethines tested against leukemia L 1210 (author's transl)]. Eight of fifteen Fluorenone-Azomethines without alkylating function have been found effective against the leukemia L 1210. Little modifications concerning the structure of the compounds caused loss of effectiveness. It seems remarkably that one corresponding derivative with a nitrogen mustard group (4) was ineffective. Correlations between chemical structure and biological effect have not yet been found.", "PMID": 444028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6482", "title": "[Diagnostic possibilities of the prostate cytology, particularly considering the influence of the cytological degree of differentiation with the prostate carcinoma upon the 5 year survival rate (author's transl)].", "content": "Today, the transrectal fine-needle biopsy is firmly integrated in the establishment of the diagnosis of prostate carcinoma within the prophylactic examinations and as a check-up examination during the treatment of prostate carcinoma. Cytologically, the prostate carcinoma may be divided into four different degrees of malignancy: high-grade, medium-grade, low-differentiated and anaplastic carcinoma. Differential-diagnostically, chronic prostatitis may raise certain problems both clinically and cytologically. Electronmicroscopic examinations of samples taken by fine-needle biopsy are possible. Certain changes under anti-androgen treatment are examined at present. Under the contra-sexual treatment of the prostate carcinoma carrier there occur changes of the normal and carcinoma cells the extent of which permits conclusions as to the therapeutic hormone effect. This, in turn, results in consequences for the respective treatment. In 496 prostate carcinomata cytologically diagnosed since March 1970 the author was able to demonstrate that the 5 years' survival rate is determined by the cytological degree of differentiation. Whereas highly and medium-differentiated prostate carcinomata show an average 5 years' survival rate of 62.5 per cent, this amounts only to 33.9 per cent with the low-differentiated and anaplastic prostate carcinomata. The total 5 years' survival rate of all cytologically diagnosed carcinomata came up to 46.8 per cent. The 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5 years' survival rate of all cytologically diagnosed prostate carcinoma carriers is almost in conformity with the values found by Esposti. The degree cytological differentiation in connection with the clinical stage clearly determines the clinical course with our patients.", "contents": "[Diagnostic possibilities of the prostate cytology, particularly considering the influence of the cytological degree of differentiation with the prostate carcinoma upon the 5 year survival rate (author's transl)]. Today, the transrectal fine-needle biopsy is firmly integrated in the establishment of the diagnosis of prostate carcinoma within the prophylactic examinations and as a check-up examination during the treatment of prostate carcinoma. Cytologically, the prostate carcinoma may be divided into four different degrees of malignancy: high-grade, medium-grade, low-differentiated and anaplastic carcinoma. Differential-diagnostically, chronic prostatitis may raise certain problems both clinically and cytologically. Electronmicroscopic examinations of samples taken by fine-needle biopsy are possible. Certain changes under anti-androgen treatment are examined at present. Under the contra-sexual treatment of the prostate carcinoma carrier there occur changes of the normal and carcinoma cells the extent of which permits conclusions as to the therapeutic hormone effect. This, in turn, results in consequences for the respective treatment. In 496 prostate carcinomata cytologically diagnosed since March 1970 the author was able to demonstrate that the 5 years' survival rate is determined by the cytological degree of differentiation. Whereas highly and medium-differentiated prostate carcinomata show an average 5 years' survival rate of 62.5 per cent, this amounts only to 33.9 per cent with the low-differentiated and anaplastic prostate carcinomata. The total 5 years' survival rate of all cytologically diagnosed carcinomata came up to 46.8 per cent. The 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5 years' survival rate of all cytologically diagnosed prostate carcinoma carriers is almost in conformity with the values found by Esposti. The degree cytological differentiation in connection with the clinical stage clearly determines the clinical course with our patients.", "PMID": 444029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6483", "title": "[Clinical and radiological appearance of early gastric cancer in comparision with endoscopical and surgery findings (an analysis of 40 cases) (author's transl)].", "content": "Forty cases of so-called early gastric cancer were investigated for their clinical symptomatology and radiological appearance. The essential symptoms are noncharacteristic abdominal pain and weight loss. Polypoid early cancer and depressed types which appear to be benign are problematical for x-ray diagnosis. In occult symptoms like depressed position or breaking off of mucosal folds in the surrounding of an ulcus, malignant growth is thought to occur. The x-ray diagnosis was compared with the gastroscopic diagnosis. The percentage of mucosal carcinomas which were secured preoperatively by biopsy could be increased considerably. In cases of polypoid early cancer the biopsy shows the most negative results. Often the basis of these polyps is cancerously degenerated only partially. Therefore we demand to take more tissue on different places. Especial problematically in x-ray diagnosis is the flat growing form of early gastric cancer if it is situated subcardially. Three of these cases could be neither diagnosed as benign nor as malign. Here the gastroscopy is superior to the x-ray diagnosis. A comparison with the results of surgery shows that half of the cases can be identified as malignant by the microscopical diagnosis only. The laparotomy without opening of the stomach can also lead to misinterpretations. The most important task of the x-ray diagnosis is the early detection of occult changes of gastric mucosa.", "contents": "[Clinical and radiological appearance of early gastric cancer in comparision with endoscopical and surgery findings (an analysis of 40 cases) (author's transl)]. Forty cases of so-called early gastric cancer were investigated for their clinical symptomatology and radiological appearance. The essential symptoms are noncharacteristic abdominal pain and weight loss. Polypoid early cancer and depressed types which appear to be benign are problematical for x-ray diagnosis. In occult symptoms like depressed position or breaking off of mucosal folds in the surrounding of an ulcus, malignant growth is thought to occur. The x-ray diagnosis was compared with the gastroscopic diagnosis. The percentage of mucosal carcinomas which were secured preoperatively by biopsy could be increased considerably. In cases of polypoid early cancer the biopsy shows the most negative results. Often the basis of these polyps is cancerously degenerated only partially. Therefore we demand to take more tissue on different places. Especial problematically in x-ray diagnosis is the flat growing form of early gastric cancer if it is situated subcardially. Three of these cases could be neither diagnosed as benign nor as malign. Here the gastroscopy is superior to the x-ray diagnosis. A comparison with the results of surgery shows that half of the cases can be identified as malignant by the microscopical diagnosis only. The laparotomy without opening of the stomach can also lead to misinterpretations. The most important task of the x-ray diagnosis is the early detection of occult changes of gastric mucosa.", "PMID": 444030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6484", "title": "[The possibilities of occupational rehabilitation of radically treated patients with rectal cancer (author's transl)].", "content": "The analysis of social and occupational rehabilitation of 372 patients with recta cancer in working age radically treated at N. N. Petrov Research Institute of Oncology of the USSR Ministry of Health in 1950--1970 revealed, that not less than 50% of patients returned to work and were readapted in their family and social environment. About 70% of patients are working, having an invalidity group. The interrelationship and the direct influence of different factors (characterizing the state of the patient's organism, the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, the character of treatment, the presence of complications and functional disturbances, as well as age, sex, profession, length of service) on the process of occupational readaptation, and also on the conclusions of expert comissions for evaluation of working ability were determined with the method of correlation analysis. These findings permit to evaluate the role of each factor, the degree of its stability and the character of its influence. The decisive factors, which determine occupational readaptation of patients with rectal cancer after radical treatment, are: sex, age, profession educational level, severity of functional disturbances. The influence of stage of disease (if radical operation is possible) on the success of occupational rehabilitation of patients with rectal cancer is not considered significant.", "contents": "[The possibilities of occupational rehabilitation of radically treated patients with rectal cancer (author's transl)]. The analysis of social and occupational rehabilitation of 372 patients with recta cancer in working age radically treated at N. N. Petrov Research Institute of Oncology of the USSR Ministry of Health in 1950--1970 revealed, that not less than 50% of patients returned to work and were readapted in their family and social environment. About 70% of patients are working, having an invalidity group. The interrelationship and the direct influence of different factors (characterizing the state of the patient's organism, the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, the character of treatment, the presence of complications and functional disturbances, as well as age, sex, profession, length of service) on the process of occupational readaptation, and also on the conclusions of expert comissions for evaluation of working ability were determined with the method of correlation analysis. These findings permit to evaluate the role of each factor, the degree of its stability and the character of its influence. The decisive factors, which determine occupational readaptation of patients with rectal cancer after radical treatment, are: sex, age, profession educational level, severity of functional disturbances. The influence of stage of disease (if radical operation is possible) on the success of occupational rehabilitation of patients with rectal cancer is not considered significant.", "PMID": 444031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6485", "title": "[Epidemiology of malignant neoplasms of the breast, uterine cervix, endometrium, and rectum of females in the G.D.R., 1962--1972 (author's transl)].", "content": "Based on a model described earlier, the time trend of incidence, mortality, prevalence, duration of medical care and 5-years survival rate is calculated for the following malignant neoplasms of female population in the G.D.R.: breast, uterine cervix , corpus uteri and chorionephithelioma (combined), and rectum (ICD 8th, revision Nos. 174, 180, 181/182, 154). Calculated rates agree quite well with published observations. The results support the assumption that care of cancer patients could be improved between 1962 and 1972. Some suggestions for further development of cancer control are discussed.", "contents": "[Epidemiology of malignant neoplasms of the breast, uterine cervix, endometrium, and rectum of females in the G.D.R., 1962--1972 (author's transl)]. Based on a model described earlier, the time trend of incidence, mortality, prevalence, duration of medical care and 5-years survival rate is calculated for the following malignant neoplasms of female population in the G.D.R.: breast, uterine cervix , corpus uteri and chorionephithelioma (combined), and rectum (ICD 8th, revision Nos. 174, 180, 181/182, 154). Calculated rates agree quite well with published observations. The results support the assumption that care of cancer patients could be improved between 1962 and 1972. Some suggestions for further development of cancer control are discussed.", "PMID": 444032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6486", "title": "Further investigations on possible correlation between agglutinability and osteoinductive properties of established cell lines.", "content": "Various cell lines, including SV40 virus-transformed human and mouse fibroblasts, established fibroblastic and epithelial cell lines, as well as their hybrids were tested for osteoinductive properties versus presence of Concanavalin A receptors. No correlation was found between the presence of these receptors and osteoinductive properties of cells. So far, however, no osteoinductive cell line was found without Concanavalin A receptors. Thus, the significance of surface properties of cells in transmission of osteoinductive signal(s) remains an open question. None of the fibroblastic lines exhibits osteoinductive potential, in contrast to the HT-40 and WISH epithelial lines.", "contents": "Further investigations on possible correlation between agglutinability and osteoinductive properties of established cell lines. Various cell lines, including SV40 virus-transformed human and mouse fibroblasts, established fibroblastic and epithelial cell lines, as well as their hybrids were tested for osteoinductive properties versus presence of Concanavalin A receptors. No correlation was found between the presence of these receptors and osteoinductive properties of cells. So far, however, no osteoinductive cell line was found without Concanavalin A receptors. Thus, the significance of surface properties of cells in transmission of osteoinductive signal(s) remains an open question. None of the fibroblastic lines exhibits osteoinductive potential, in contrast to the HT-40 and WISH epithelial lines.", "PMID": 444033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6487", "title": "Enzymatic labeling of gamma-globulin and insulin with iodine-125.", "content": "The parameters of enzymatic labeling of proteins with iodine 125 were examined. The manner and sequence of reagent addition, the effects of reagent concentration, reaction time and total Na125I activity on the labeling yield were determined.", "contents": "Enzymatic labeling of gamma-globulin and insulin with iodine-125. The parameters of enzymatic labeling of proteins with iodine 125 were examined. The manner and sequence of reagent addition, the effects of reagent concentration, reaction time and total Na125I activity on the labeling yield were determined.", "PMID": 444034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6488", "title": "Correlation between immunohistochemical localization of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and histological estimation of carcinomas, normal mucosae and lymph nodes of the digestive tract in humans.", "content": "The localization of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in carcinomas and mucosae of the digestive tract in humans and in mesenteric lymph nodes was studied by indirect immunofluorescence. In colonic and gastric adenocarcinomas, CEA had typical centroglandular localization. Cytoplasmic localization of the CEA was seen in invasive cancer cells having lost their glandular organization. CEA was also present in colonic and gastric mucosae surrounding the tumor. In gastric mucosa obtained at autopsy from subjects with nonneoplastic diseases, CEA was found only in glands having undergone intestinal metaplasia. In lymph nodes of cancer patients CEA was always present in metastatic cells and in germinal centers. Characteristic localization of CEA in germinal centers of metastatic and nonmetastatic lymph nodes could suggest the presence of CEA-anti-CEA immune complexes.", "contents": "Correlation between immunohistochemical localization of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and histological estimation of carcinomas, normal mucosae and lymph nodes of the digestive tract in humans. The localization of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in carcinomas and mucosae of the digestive tract in humans and in mesenteric lymph nodes was studied by indirect immunofluorescence. In colonic and gastric adenocarcinomas, CEA had typical centroglandular localization. Cytoplasmic localization of the CEA was seen in invasive cancer cells having lost their glandular organization. CEA was also present in colonic and gastric mucosae surrounding the tumor. In gastric mucosa obtained at autopsy from subjects with nonneoplastic diseases, CEA was found only in glands having undergone intestinal metaplasia. In lymph nodes of cancer patients CEA was always present in metastatic cells and in germinal centers. Characteristic localization of CEA in germinal centers of metastatic and nonmetastatic lymph nodes could suggest the presence of CEA-anti-CEA immune complexes.", "PMID": 444035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6489", "title": "IME -- an inhibitor of interferon activity isolated from mouse embryonic tissues. II. Biological characteristics.", "content": "The biological properties and mode of action of IME were studied. Extracts of homogenized and lyophilized mouse embryos served as source of IME, which was found to be localized mainly in cells of mouse amnionic membranes and embryonic tissues. Growth of embryos was accompanied by falling activity of the inhibitor. IME activity was manifested only if it acted on cells in established antiviral state, and only in systems with efficient protein synthesis in all stages. IME stimultes cell metabolism. The findings from this study constitute material for further research on factors antagonistic to interferon.", "contents": "IME -- an inhibitor of interferon activity isolated from mouse embryonic tissues. II. Biological characteristics. The biological properties and mode of action of IME were studied. Extracts of homogenized and lyophilized mouse embryos served as source of IME, which was found to be localized mainly in cells of mouse amnionic membranes and embryonic tissues. Growth of embryos was accompanied by falling activity of the inhibitor. IME activity was manifested only if it acted on cells in established antiviral state, and only in systems with efficient protein synthesis in all stages. IME stimultes cell metabolism. The findings from this study constitute material for further research on factors antagonistic to interferon.", "PMID": 444036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6490", "title": "Modifying action of levamisole on the course of adjuvant-induced polyarthritis in rats.", "content": "Treatment of August rats with levamisole (L-tetramisole) distinctly depressed the development and the course of adjuvant-induced polarthritis (A-pa). The depressing activity of the drug was dose-dependent. However, spontaneous stimulation of lymphocytes from A-pa rats treated with levamisole was decreased only after the first 7 days of treatment. Moreover, these lymphocytes showed no changes in PHA-reactivity in comparison with untreated animals. It was concluded that levamisole in some circumstances may show immunosuppressive activity; however, it did not seem to act directly on lymphocytes.", "contents": "Modifying action of levamisole on the course of adjuvant-induced polyarthritis in rats. Treatment of August rats with levamisole (L-tetramisole) distinctly depressed the development and the course of adjuvant-induced polarthritis (A-pa). The depressing activity of the drug was dose-dependent. However, spontaneous stimulation of lymphocytes from A-pa rats treated with levamisole was decreased only after the first 7 days of treatment. Moreover, these lymphocytes showed no changes in PHA-reactivity in comparison with untreated animals. It was concluded that levamisole in some circumstances may show immunosuppressive activity; however, it did not seem to act directly on lymphocytes.", "PMID": 444037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6491", "title": "Heterogeneity of aggregates of the human erythrocyte membrane glycoproteins.", "content": "The crude red cell glycoproteins obtained by four different methods are compared. The most selective isolation of the major membrane glycoprotein (MN blood group glycoprotein) is achieved by the phenol-water extraction procedure. A different degree of aggregation of this glycoprotein in water and in various buffers is demonstrated. The gel filtration of the crude glycoprotein on a Sepharose 4B column in 0.05 M pyridine--acetate buffer of pH 5.3 gives four fractions with different chemical compostition and serologic properties. The fractions obtained are heterogenous in SDS-PAGE and represent different kinds of glycoprotein aggregates. The distribution of serologic activities in the fractions obtained indicates that A, B and I activities found in the crude prepration of red cell glycoprotein are not connected with MN glycoprotein.", "contents": "Heterogeneity of aggregates of the human erythrocyte membrane glycoproteins. The crude red cell glycoproteins obtained by four different methods are compared. The most selective isolation of the major membrane glycoprotein (MN blood group glycoprotein) is achieved by the phenol-water extraction procedure. A different degree of aggregation of this glycoprotein in water and in various buffers is demonstrated. The gel filtration of the crude glycoprotein on a Sepharose 4B column in 0.05 M pyridine--acetate buffer of pH 5.3 gives four fractions with different chemical compostition and serologic properties. The fractions obtained are heterogenous in SDS-PAGE and represent different kinds of glycoprotein aggregates. The distribution of serologic activities in the fractions obtained indicates that A, B and I activities found in the crude prepration of red cell glycoprotein are not connected with MN glycoprotein.", "PMID": 444038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6492", "title": "Heterogeneity of glycoproteins of the human erythrocyte membrane. Fractionation in sodium dodecyl sulfate containing solutions.", "content": "Human erythrocyte membranes and the glycoprotein isolated by phenol-water extraction of membranes were fractionated by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-300 in 1% SDS. It was shown by this procedure that lipids (and possibly other membrane components) promote the dissociation of glycoprotein aggregates in SDS-containing solutions. The isolated glycoprotein gives several fractions on gel filtration in 1% SDS. The main fraction contains the major sialogylcoprotein (MN), which can be obtained in an electrophoretically homogeneous form (PAS-1) when only a part of the major peak is pooled and re-chromatographed. The purified glycoprotein has elevated MN blood group activity, does not show I activity, and contains components of alkalibabile oligosaccharide chains in slightly higher proportion than crude glycoprotein. The other fractions have distinctly different carbohydrate composition and contain glycoproteins of different electorphoretic mobility in SDS-PAGE.", "contents": "Heterogeneity of glycoproteins of the human erythrocyte membrane. Fractionation in sodium dodecyl sulfate containing solutions. Human erythrocyte membranes and the glycoprotein isolated by phenol-water extraction of membranes were fractionated by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-300 in 1% SDS. It was shown by this procedure that lipids (and possibly other membrane components) promote the dissociation of glycoprotein aggregates in SDS-containing solutions. The isolated glycoprotein gives several fractions on gel filtration in 1% SDS. The main fraction contains the major sialogylcoprotein (MN), which can be obtained in an electrophoretically homogeneous form (PAS-1) when only a part of the major peak is pooled and re-chromatographed. The purified glycoprotein has elevated MN blood group activity, does not show I activity, and contains components of alkalibabile oligosaccharide chains in slightly higher proportion than crude glycoprotein. The other fractions have distinctly different carbohydrate composition and contain glycoproteins of different electorphoretic mobility in SDS-PAGE.", "PMID": 444039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6493", "title": "Polymorphism of esterase D in the Polish population.", "content": "Distribution of esterase D types was studied in a sample of the Polish population numbering 885 subjects. Frequency of EsDl-1 type was 0.810, EsD2-1 -- 0.174, and EsD2-2 -- 0.16. Frequency of the genes EsD1 and EsD2, which determine this system, were 0.897 and 0.103 respectively. A study of 613 mother-child pairs revealed agreement with the hypothesis of two alleles in the EsD locus. The prevalence of EsD genes in the Polish population was similar to those reported in other European populations.", "contents": "Polymorphism of esterase D in the Polish population. Distribution of esterase D types was studied in a sample of the Polish population numbering 885 subjects. Frequency of EsDl-1 type was 0.810, EsD2-1 -- 0.174, and EsD2-2 -- 0.16. Frequency of the genes EsD1 and EsD2, which determine this system, were 0.897 and 0.103 respectively. A study of 613 mother-child pairs revealed agreement with the hypothesis of two alleles in the EsD locus. The prevalence of EsD genes in the Polish population was similar to those reported in other European populations.", "PMID": 444040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6494", "title": "Prevalence and inheritance of C3 types in the Polish population.", "content": "In a sample of the Polish population numbering 1,458 subjects, the three common types, C3S, C3F and C3FS, were found with frequencies of 0.6790, 0.0295 and 0.2901 respectively, besides two rare variants, C3FO, 7S and C3SO, 25S. Frequencies of C3S and C3F genes were 0.8248 and 0.1746 respectively, and of the CSFO,7 and C3SO,25 genes, 0.0003 each. Distribution of types in 695 mother-child pairs was consistent with the hypothesis that the C3 system depends on a single genetic locus in which codominat alleles are situated. No children of C3S and C3F mothers with opposite homozygous types were encountered. Hereditary character of the C3FO, 7S variant was confirmed by family studies in which the rare C3FO,7 gene, in combination with C3S or C3F genes, occured in three generations.", "contents": "Prevalence and inheritance of C3 types in the Polish population. In a sample of the Polish population numbering 1,458 subjects, the three common types, C3S, C3F and C3FS, were found with frequencies of 0.6790, 0.0295 and 0.2901 respectively, besides two rare variants, C3FO, 7S and C3SO, 25S. Frequencies of C3S and C3F genes were 0.8248 and 0.1746 respectively, and of the CSFO,7 and C3SO,25 genes, 0.0003 each. Distribution of types in 695 mother-child pairs was consistent with the hypothesis that the C3 system depends on a single genetic locus in which codominat alleles are situated. No children of C3S and C3F mothers with opposite homozygous types were encountered. Hereditary character of the C3FO, 7S variant was confirmed by family studies in which the rare C3FO,7 gene, in combination with C3S or C3F genes, occured in three generations.", "PMID": 444041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6495", "title": "Histologic changes in the spleen of rabbits following long-term and multiple immunization with sheep red blood cells.", "content": "Results of immunologic and histologic studies on rabbits immunized with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) showed dependence of the immunologic response (PFC, RFC) on the histologic structure of the spleen, particularly width of the sinusoidal vessels. Histologic changes in the spleen are a result of immunization and their intensity is related to the dose of antigen. The influence of dosage of antigen and histologic structure of the spleen on regulation of the immunologic response are discussed.", "contents": "Histologic changes in the spleen of rabbits following long-term and multiple immunization with sheep red blood cells. Results of immunologic and histologic studies on rabbits immunized with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) showed dependence of the immunologic response (PFC, RFC) on the histologic structure of the spleen, particularly width of the sinusoidal vessels. Histologic changes in the spleen are a result of immunization and their intensity is related to the dose of antigen. The influence of dosage of antigen and histologic structure of the spleen on regulation of the immunologic response are discussed.", "PMID": 444042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6496", "title": "Biological activity of sera obtained by hyperimmunizing rabbits with interferon from mouse L cells.", "content": "Rabbits immunized with interferon from mouse L cells for long periods of time produced interferon-neutralizing antibodies with titers from 1:80 to 1,2000. The anti-interferon sera also contained antibodies against antigens contaminating the interferon preparations such as albumin, bovine gamma-globulin, chicken albumin, extract from L cells, and Sindbis virus antigens. Some sera also displayed cytotoxic activity against cells of transplantable murine leukemia. These antibodies could be removed by specific absorption. Titers of antibodies neutralizing interferon were not correlated with the titers of antibodies against concomitant antigens. In hyperimmunized rabbits interferon-neutralizing antibodies persisted for long periods of time in spite of interrupting immunization.", "contents": "Biological activity of sera obtained by hyperimmunizing rabbits with interferon from mouse L cells. Rabbits immunized with interferon from mouse L cells for long periods of time produced interferon-neutralizing antibodies with titers from 1:80 to 1,2000. The anti-interferon sera also contained antibodies against antigens contaminating the interferon preparations such as albumin, bovine gamma-globulin, chicken albumin, extract from L cells, and Sindbis virus antigens. Some sera also displayed cytotoxic activity against cells of transplantable murine leukemia. These antibodies could be removed by specific absorption. Titers of antibodies neutralizing interferon were not correlated with the titers of antibodies against concomitant antigens. In hyperimmunized rabbits interferon-neutralizing antibodies persisted for long periods of time in spite of interrupting immunization.", "PMID": 444043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6497", "title": "Morphology of lysosomes in different phases of growth of lymphoblasts of L5178Y murine leukemia.", "content": "Parallel studies were carried out on the morphology of lysosomes, activity of DNA synthesis measured by the rate of 3 H-thymidine incorporation, and proliferative activity on the basis of values of the mitotic index of leukemia L5178Y lymphoblasts under varying growth conditions. Morphology of lysosomes was studied by the method of intravital staining with euchrysine. Observations were made on cells growing from the logarithmic phase to saturation density and synchronized by double blocking of DNA synthesis by hydroxyurea. The results showed some variation of the morphology of lysosomes related to growth phase of the cells.", "contents": "Morphology of lysosomes in different phases of growth of lymphoblasts of L5178Y murine leukemia. Parallel studies were carried out on the morphology of lysosomes, activity of DNA synthesis measured by the rate of 3 H-thymidine incorporation, and proliferative activity on the basis of values of the mitotic index of leukemia L5178Y lymphoblasts under varying growth conditions. Morphology of lysosomes was studied by the method of intravital staining with euchrysine. Observations were made on cells growing from the logarithmic phase to saturation density and synchronized by double blocking of DNA synthesis by hydroxyurea. The results showed some variation of the morphology of lysosomes related to growth phase of the cells.", "PMID": 444044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6498", "title": "Immunoglobulin content of experimentally induced amyloid in hamsters.", "content": "Experimental amyloidosis in hamsters induced by Di-Te-Per vaccine was studied for periods of 14 to 126 days. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that after the 4th week of immunization amyloid deposits containing immunoglobulins accumulated in the liver, spleen and renal glomeruli. The amount of immunoglobulin in the amyloid deposits increased in the final stage in the kidneys, spleen and portal spaces of liver. In the spaces of Disse the amount of immunoglobulin after 4 and 18 weeks of immunization was similar.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin content of experimentally induced amyloid in hamsters. Experimental amyloidosis in hamsters induced by Di-Te-Per vaccine was studied for periods of 14 to 126 days. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that after the 4th week of immunization amyloid deposits containing immunoglobulins accumulated in the liver, spleen and renal glomeruli. The amount of immunoglobulin in the amyloid deposits increased in the final stage in the kidneys, spleen and portal spaces of liver. In the spaces of Disse the amount of immunoglobulin after 4 and 18 weeks of immunization was similar.", "PMID": 444045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6499", "title": "Clinical value of carcinoembryonic antigen: diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of patients with cancer.", "content": "Plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in nanograms per milliliter was assayed in 149 patients with benign and 567 patients with malignant disease. Elevated CEA level (greater than 5.0) was a good indicator of malignant disease but a poor screening test for cancer because of the high false-negative rate. Degree of elevation of plasma CEA level correlated with incidence of metastatic disease in patients with colorectal, gastric, and breast carcinomas, but no correlation was seen between CEA levels and status of lymph nodes in patients with localized disease. Patients with localized colorectal cancer, but elevated CEA levels before resection, had a 2.1-fold increase in the incidence of recurrence; however, this added to the prognostic value of Dukes' staging only when the CEA level remained elevated postoperatively. In 87% of patients with colorectal cancer, the CEA level was elevated at the time of recurrence, but a therapeutic value of reexploration for unexplained CEA level elevation was not confirmed.", "contents": "Clinical value of carcinoembryonic antigen: diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of patients with cancer. Plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in nanograms per milliliter was assayed in 149 patients with benign and 567 patients with malignant disease. Elevated CEA level (greater than 5.0) was a good indicator of malignant disease but a poor screening test for cancer because of the high false-negative rate. Degree of elevation of plasma CEA level correlated with incidence of metastatic disease in patients with colorectal, gastric, and breast carcinomas, but no correlation was seen between CEA levels and status of lymph nodes in patients with localized disease. Patients with localized colorectal cancer, but elevated CEA levels before resection, had a 2.1-fold increase in the incidence of recurrence; however, this added to the prognostic value of Dukes' staging only when the CEA level remained elevated postoperatively. In 87% of patients with colorectal cancer, the CEA level was elevated at the time of recurrence, but a therapeutic value of reexploration for unexplained CEA level elevation was not confirmed.", "PMID": 444049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6500", "title": "Ecthyma gangrenosum: survival with individualized antibiotic therapy.", "content": "Five burn patients with ecthyma gangrenosum were treated with gentamicin sulfate in an individualized aminoglycoside regimen. Dosages greater than the currently recommended 3 to 5 mg/kg/day were necessary and ranged from 15 to 30 mg/kg/day. These increased dosages cannot be used routinely but only as serum level data indicate the need. Four of the five patients survived their course of ecthyma gangrenosum. The single fatality received a much smaller dosage of gentamicin as compared with the other four patients. No ototoxic or nephrotoxic reactions were noted in any of the patients.", "contents": "Ecthyma gangrenosum: survival with individualized antibiotic therapy. Five burn patients with ecthyma gangrenosum were treated with gentamicin sulfate in an individualized aminoglycoside regimen. Dosages greater than the currently recommended 3 to 5 mg/kg/day were necessary and ranged from 15 to 30 mg/kg/day. These increased dosages cannot be used routinely but only as serum level data indicate the need. Four of the five patients survived their course of ecthyma gangrenosum. The single fatality received a much smaller dosage of gentamicin as compared with the other four patients. No ototoxic or nephrotoxic reactions were noted in any of the patients.", "PMID": 444050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6501", "title": "Gas in the appendix: a sometimes significant but nonspecific diagnostic sign.", "content": "The gas-filled appendix is an uncommon roentgenographic sign that has been considered to be virtually diagnostic of acute appendicitis when the appendix is positioned caudad to the cecum in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. Three patients had gas in the appendix in the absence of acute appendicitis. This diagnostic sign is therefore not specific for appendicitis. Regardless of its location, the appendix may contain gas despite the absence of intrinsic disease.", "contents": "Gas in the appendix: a sometimes significant but nonspecific diagnostic sign. The gas-filled appendix is an uncommon roentgenographic sign that has been considered to be virtually diagnostic of acute appendicitis when the appendix is positioned caudad to the cecum in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. Three patients had gas in the appendix in the absence of acute appendicitis. This diagnostic sign is therefore not specific for appendicitis. Regardless of its location, the appendix may contain gas despite the absence of intrinsic disease.", "PMID": 444051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6502", "title": "Fine-needle aspiration biopsy in ampullary and pancreatic carcinoma.", "content": "Cytological verification of the angiographic, sonographic, and/or intraoperative diagnosis of pancreatic or ampullary carcinoma may be achieved by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Fifteen biopsies were done in 13 patients, 12 of whom were thought to have pancreatic carcinoma clinically. The FNAB specimen confirmed this in 11 of them. Also, one equivocal (suspicious), two false-negative, and no false-positive results were recorded. Complications were not seen. In addition, four patients with ampullary carcinoma had pancreatoduodenectomy on the basis of FNAB specimens. Since this method is more accurate and is safer and simpler than the traditional wedge or core biopsy of suspected pancreatic or ampullary tumors, and since it may eliminate the need for laparotomy in selected cases, we consider it the preferred method for immediate diagnosis of these neoplasms.", "contents": "Fine-needle aspiration biopsy in ampullary and pancreatic carcinoma. Cytological verification of the angiographic, sonographic, and/or intraoperative diagnosis of pancreatic or ampullary carcinoma may be achieved by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Fifteen biopsies were done in 13 patients, 12 of whom were thought to have pancreatic carcinoma clinically. The FNAB specimen confirmed this in 11 of them. Also, one equivocal (suspicious), two false-negative, and no false-positive results were recorded. Complications were not seen. In addition, four patients with ampullary carcinoma had pancreatoduodenectomy on the basis of FNAB specimens. Since this method is more accurate and is safer and simpler than the traditional wedge or core biopsy of suspected pancreatic or ampullary tumors, and since it may eliminate the need for laparotomy in selected cases, we consider it the preferred method for immediate diagnosis of these neoplasms.", "PMID": 444052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6503", "title": "Remote bypass grafts for managing infected popliteal artery lesions.", "content": "Infected false aneurysms of the popliteal artery may complicate vascular repairs for trauma or primary arterial disease. Adequate debridement and drainage are necessary if the limb is to be salvaged, but direct arterial grafting through the infected area cannot be performed safely. Vascular reconstruction can be accomplished by performing a femoropopliteal or iliopopliteal bypass through a lateral approach, then the infected artery can be removed safely through separate incisions. This technique was used successfully in managing four patients with infected popliteal artery pseudoaneurysms.", "contents": "Remote bypass grafts for managing infected popliteal artery lesions. Infected false aneurysms of the popliteal artery may complicate vascular repairs for trauma or primary arterial disease. Adequate debridement and drainage are necessary if the limb is to be salvaged, but direct arterial grafting through the infected area cannot be performed safely. Vascular reconstruction can be accomplished by performing a femoropopliteal or iliopopliteal bypass through a lateral approach, then the infected artery can be removed safely through separate incisions. This technique was used successfully in managing four patients with infected popliteal artery pseudoaneurysms.", "PMID": 444053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6504", "title": "Restenosis or occlusion after carotid endarterectomy: a survey with ocular pneumoplethysmography.", "content": "One hundred seventy-three carotid endarterectomies in 141 patients operated on during a 12-year period were surveyed both clinically and by ocular pneumoplethysmography (OPG)-Gee. Seventeen (12%) patients had positive OPG examinations. Three arteries (1.7%) demonstrated symptomatic recurrent stenosis in accord with earlier reports. An additional 8.1% of the operated arteries had asymptomatic recurrent stenosis. A total recurrence rate of 9.8% was found. Because of the considerable silent recurrence rate we have found, we recommend annual screening by OPG. Angiography and repeated endarterectomy are then used when appropriate.", "contents": "Restenosis or occlusion after carotid endarterectomy: a survey with ocular pneumoplethysmography. One hundred seventy-three carotid endarterectomies in 141 patients operated on during a 12-year period were surveyed both clinically and by ocular pneumoplethysmography (OPG)-Gee. Seventeen (12%) patients had positive OPG examinations. Three arteries (1.7%) demonstrated symptomatic recurrent stenosis in accord with earlier reports. An additional 8.1% of the operated arteries had asymptomatic recurrent stenosis. A total recurrence rate of 9.8% was found. Because of the considerable silent recurrence rate we have found, we recommend annual screening by OPG. Angiography and repeated endarterectomy are then used when appropriate.", "PMID": 444054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6505", "title": "Mechanism of obstruction of closed-wound suction tubing.", "content": "The mechanism of obstruction of closed-wound drainage tubing was investigated by means of coagulation tests performed on wound drainage fluid and by examination of the contents of the tubes after their removal. Although clotting is commonly thought to be responsible for the obstruction, the wound drainage fluid was found to be essentially incoagulable and little fibrin was evident within the tubes. By contrast, bits of tissue were frequently found within the tubes, and these frequently virtually occluded the lumen. This observation, that tissue fragments are responsible for tube obstruction, permits a rational approach to the solution of this problem. For example, meticulous wound flushing and irrigation, or perhaps tubing of different design, might lead to a reduced incidence of tube failure.", "contents": "Mechanism of obstruction of closed-wound suction tubing. The mechanism of obstruction of closed-wound drainage tubing was investigated by means of coagulation tests performed on wound drainage fluid and by examination of the contents of the tubes after their removal. Although clotting is commonly thought to be responsible for the obstruction, the wound drainage fluid was found to be essentially incoagulable and little fibrin was evident within the tubes. By contrast, bits of tissue were frequently found within the tubes, and these frequently virtually occluded the lumen. This observation, that tissue fragments are responsible for tube obstruction, permits a rational approach to the solution of this problem. For example, meticulous wound flushing and irrigation, or perhaps tubing of different design, might lead to a reduced incidence of tube failure.", "PMID": 444055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6506", "title": "Proximal gastric vagotomy and suprapyloric antrectomy. Experimental evaluation in dogs.", "content": "In five dogs with Heidenhain pouches, proximal gastric vagotomy and suprapyloric antrectomy did not alter the rate of gastric emptying of 300 mL of 1% dextrose or of 40 plastic spheres, or disrupt the barricade preventing duodenogastric reflux. However, the operation did slow gastric emptying of 50 g of cubed liver and increase the postprandial secretion of hydrochloric acid from the pouch. We concluded that suprapyloric antrectomy can be combined with proximal gastric vagotomy without disturbing the gastric emptying of liquids and indigestible solids or resulting in increased duodenogastric reflux. However, the operation does slow gastric emptying of digestible solids.", "contents": "Proximal gastric vagotomy and suprapyloric antrectomy. Experimental evaluation in dogs. In five dogs with Heidenhain pouches, proximal gastric vagotomy and suprapyloric antrectomy did not alter the rate of gastric emptying of 300 mL of 1% dextrose or of 40 plastic spheres, or disrupt the barricade preventing duodenogastric reflux. However, the operation did slow gastric emptying of 50 g of cubed liver and increase the postprandial secretion of hydrochloric acid from the pouch. We concluded that suprapyloric antrectomy can be combined with proximal gastric vagotomy without disturbing the gastric emptying of liquids and indigestible solids or resulting in increased duodenogastric reflux. However, the operation does slow gastric emptying of digestible solids.", "PMID": 444056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6507", "title": "The cavaportal shunt in interruptions of the suprarenal inferior vena cava.", "content": "Abrupt interruption of the suprarenal inferior vena cava can have dramatic consequences and can be difficult to repair successfully. In the case reported, an excellent result was obtained by a cavaportal anastomosis, with minimal consequences on renal and hepatic functions.", "contents": "The cavaportal shunt in interruptions of the suprarenal inferior vena cava. Abrupt interruption of the suprarenal inferior vena cava can have dramatic consequences and can be difficult to repair successfully. In the case reported, an excellent result was obtained by a cavaportal anastomosis, with minimal consequences on renal and hepatic functions.", "PMID": 444057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6508", "title": "Appendicitis in acute leukemia.", "content": "The cases of five children with acute leukemia complicated by appendicitis were reviewed. All but one child had typical signs and symptoms of acute appendicitis, though four children were receiving prednisone. All five children underwent appendectomy, and all survived the immediate postoperative period. One child had a spontaneous remission following appendectomy. Two of three children in relapse suffered serious postoperative complications. Our experience supports the surgical management of appendicitis in acute leukemia.", "contents": "Appendicitis in acute leukemia. The cases of five children with acute leukemia complicated by appendicitis were reviewed. All but one child had typical signs and symptoms of acute appendicitis, though four children were receiving prednisone. All five children underwent appendectomy, and all survived the immediate postoperative period. One child had a spontaneous remission following appendectomy. Two of three children in relapse suffered serious postoperative complications. Our experience supports the surgical management of appendicitis in acute leukemia.", "PMID": 444058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6509", "title": "[Radioautographic study of acid glycoprotein synthesis by tracheal and bronchial glands during ontogeny].", "content": "The synthesis of acid glycoproteins in the glands of the respiratory pathway has been studied radioautographically by means of sodium sulfate in the cat ontogenesis. 35S-sulfate incorporation into the fetal gland has been stated to increase by the time of delivery. After birth and in young kittens, 35S-sulfate incorporation into the gland decreases. Acid glycoproteins are intensively synthesized by the tracheal and bronchial gland in young and adult animals. In old animals this process is lowered. The synthesis of acid glycoproteins by the tracheal and bronchial glands in ontogenesis changes both quantitatively and qualitatively.", "contents": "[Radioautographic study of acid glycoprotein synthesis by tracheal and bronchial glands during ontogeny]. The synthesis of acid glycoproteins in the glands of the respiratory pathway has been studied radioautographically by means of sodium sulfate in the cat ontogenesis. 35S-sulfate incorporation into the fetal gland has been stated to increase by the time of delivery. After birth and in young kittens, 35S-sulfate incorporation into the gland decreases. Acid glycoproteins are intensively synthesized by the tracheal and bronchial gland in young and adult animals. In old animals this process is lowered. The synthesis of acid glycoproteins by the tracheal and bronchial glands in ontogenesis changes both quantitatively and qualitatively.", "PMID": 444064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6510", "title": "[Correlation between the processes of proliferation and differentiation in the histogenesis of somatic muscle tissue in birds].", "content": "The development of muscular tissue fibers has been studied in 8--19-day-old chick embryos by methods of electron microscopy, autoradiography and cytophotometry. Differentiated myogenic elements are derived from promyoblasts which devide during myogenesis at slightly changing parameters of the mytotic cycle. Promyoblasts fuse with each other or with symplasts or else can develop into myoblasts containing myofilaments in their cytoplasm. At later stages of myogenesis, some promyoblasts pass into \"rest\" condition with characteristic changes in the structure of nucleus, cytoplasm and muscular cells. These cells are situated between the basal and cytoplasmic membranes and identified as cell-satellites (myosatellites). They represent an important subpopulation of the muscular system, which preserve a certain ability to perceive stimuli to proliferation and differentiation, forming the cambial system of the skeletal-muscular tissue.", "contents": "[Correlation between the processes of proliferation and differentiation in the histogenesis of somatic muscle tissue in birds]. The development of muscular tissue fibers has been studied in 8--19-day-old chick embryos by methods of electron microscopy, autoradiography and cytophotometry. Differentiated myogenic elements are derived from promyoblasts which devide during myogenesis at slightly changing parameters of the mytotic cycle. Promyoblasts fuse with each other or with symplasts or else can develop into myoblasts containing myofilaments in their cytoplasm. At later stages of myogenesis, some promyoblasts pass into \"rest\" condition with characteristic changes in the structure of nucleus, cytoplasm and muscular cells. These cells are situated between the basal and cytoplasmic membranes and identified as cell-satellites (myosatellites). They represent an important subpopulation of the muscular system, which preserve a certain ability to perceive stimuli to proliferation and differentiation, forming the cambial system of the skeletal-muscular tissue.", "PMID": 444065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6511", "title": "[Histone alteration in the nuclei of different types of neurons in a \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in rat brain].", "content": "Total histones estimated after M. Alfred and I. Geschwind were studied cytophotometrically in nuclei of neurons of different types (layers III and V in the frontal-parietal cortex and in the thalamic lateral nucleus) of the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in the rat brain on the 11th and 63d day after cobalt implantation. On the 11th day of the experiment, integral optic density of the histones decreased by 33%, 25% and 37%, and the area of the nuclei -- by 27%, 24% and 35% in the neurons of layers II and V in the frontal-parietal cortex and in the thalamic lateral neucleus, respectively. On the 63d, integral optic density of the histones in the neurons mentioned increased respectively by 42%, 52% and 42%, and the area of the nuclei -- by 21%, 43% and 27%. Concentration of the histones in the nuclei decreased by 3--9% on the 11th day and increased, except layer V, by 9--18% on the 63d of the experiment. Interconnection between changes in histone content and total proteins in cytoplasm of functionally different neurons in the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus is disscussed, with special reference to histones as a regular of genetic activity for protein synthesis.", "contents": "[Histone alteration in the nuclei of different types of neurons in a \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in rat brain]. Total histones estimated after M. Alfred and I. Geschwind were studied cytophotometrically in nuclei of neurons of different types (layers III and V in the frontal-parietal cortex and in the thalamic lateral nucleus) of the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in the rat brain on the 11th and 63d day after cobalt implantation. On the 11th day of the experiment, integral optic density of the histones decreased by 33%, 25% and 37%, and the area of the nuclei -- by 27%, 24% and 35% in the neurons of layers II and V in the frontal-parietal cortex and in the thalamic lateral neucleus, respectively. On the 63d, integral optic density of the histones in the neurons mentioned increased respectively by 42%, 52% and 42%, and the area of the nuclei -- by 21%, 43% and 27%. Concentration of the histones in the nuclei decreased by 3--9% on the 11th day and increased, except layer V, by 9--18% on the 63d of the experiment. Interconnection between changes in histone content and total proteins in cytoplasm of functionally different neurons in the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus is disscussed, with special reference to histones as a regular of genetic activity for protein synthesis.", "PMID": 444066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6512", "title": "[Neurohistologic and histochemical findings concerning the accessory fiber of several incapsulated receptors].", "content": "In order to clarify the role of catecholamines in encapsulated receptors, Pacinian corpuscles and the bulbs of Krause have been studied by the fluorescent method of Falck. Fluorescence, specific for catecholamines, has not been revealed in the receptors. Catecholamines do not seem to be neuromediators in stimulating sensitive nerve terminals. The regulatory role of catecholamines in the activity of the encapsulated receptors is discussed. The neurohistological method of tissue fixation in the mixture of zink-iodine -- osmic acid has revealed some additional nerve fibers (Timofeev's apparatus) in the bulbs of Krause of the cat lip and nose. In order to understand the nature of the additional fibres in the bulbs of Krause, a branch of the trigeminal nerve has been sectioned in the suborbital area. After sectioning the staining of both the main and additional fibres in the bulbs of Krause in the lip and nose has disappeared. The data obtained support the view on sensitive nature of the additional fibres (Timofeev's apparatus) in the sensitive bulbs of Krause.", "contents": "[Neurohistologic and histochemical findings concerning the accessory fiber of several incapsulated receptors]. In order to clarify the role of catecholamines in encapsulated receptors, Pacinian corpuscles and the bulbs of Krause have been studied by the fluorescent method of Falck. Fluorescence, specific for catecholamines, has not been revealed in the receptors. Catecholamines do not seem to be neuromediators in stimulating sensitive nerve terminals. The regulatory role of catecholamines in the activity of the encapsulated receptors is discussed. The neurohistological method of tissue fixation in the mixture of zink-iodine -- osmic acid has revealed some additional nerve fibers (Timofeev's apparatus) in the bulbs of Krause of the cat lip and nose. In order to understand the nature of the additional fibres in the bulbs of Krause, a branch of the trigeminal nerve has been sectioned in the suborbital area. After sectioning the staining of both the main and additional fibres in the bulbs of Krause in the lip and nose has disappeared. The data obtained support the view on sensitive nature of the additional fibres (Timofeev's apparatus) in the sensitive bulbs of Krause.", "PMID": 444067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6513", "title": "[Development of accessory structures of the mechano- and chemoreceptor apparatus of the tongue during rat ontogeny (scanning electron microscopy)].", "content": "The dynamics on the formation of different types of mechno- and chemosensitive papillae in the rat tongue has been studied during different periods of postnatal ontogenesis by means of scanning electron microsopy. Asynchronous maturation of these papillae has been demonstrated, they perform certain functions during the early postnatal ontogenesis and reach their functional maturity by the age of 3 weeks when animals go over from suckling to solid food.", "contents": "[Development of accessory structures of the mechano- and chemoreceptor apparatus of the tongue during rat ontogeny (scanning electron microscopy)]. The dynamics on the formation of different types of mechno- and chemosensitive papillae in the rat tongue has been studied during different periods of postnatal ontogenesis by means of scanning electron microsopy. Asynchronous maturation of these papillae has been demonstrated, they perform certain functions during the early postnatal ontogenesis and reach their functional maturity by the age of 3 weeks when animals go over from suckling to solid food.", "PMID": 444069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6514", "title": "[Structure and biometric indices of the lumbar ganglia of the sympathetic trunk of normal cats and cats subjected to hormonal stimulation].", "content": "The structure of different components from lumbar ganglia of the cat sympathetic trunk were studied in norm and 6h after intramuscular administration of prednisolone (5 mg/kg). Paraffin sections were stained with azocramine after Heidenhain, Wallart and Houette, azure II -- eosin. Biometry of different ganglial structures was performed by G.G. Avtandilov's dotted method. It was demonstrated that as a response to prednisolone administration, certain morphological changes appeared in all ganglial components. The walls of capillaries grew thicker, endothelial nuclei protruded into their lumen. Collagenous fibres of the connective tissue capsule and ganglial stroma grew thicker and acquired twisted appearance, the amount of the basilar substance increased. Simultaneously, there was a sharp increase of the nuclear section area in perineuronal ganglia. The total area of neuronal sections in the ganglia also increased at the expense of both increasing area of neuronal cytoplasm and hypertrophy of their nuclei.", "contents": "[Structure and biometric indices of the lumbar ganglia of the sympathetic trunk of normal cats and cats subjected to hormonal stimulation]. The structure of different components from lumbar ganglia of the cat sympathetic trunk were studied in norm and 6h after intramuscular administration of prednisolone (5 mg/kg). Paraffin sections were stained with azocramine after Heidenhain, Wallart and Houette, azure II -- eosin. Biometry of different ganglial structures was performed by G.G. Avtandilov's dotted method. It was demonstrated that as a response to prednisolone administration, certain morphological changes appeared in all ganglial components. The walls of capillaries grew thicker, endothelial nuclei protruded into their lumen. Collagenous fibres of the connective tissue capsule and ganglial stroma grew thicker and acquired twisted appearance, the amount of the basilar substance increased. Simultaneously, there was a sharp increase of the nuclear section area in perineuronal ganglia. The total area of neuronal sections in the ganglia also increased at the expense of both increasing area of neuronal cytoplasm and hypertrophy of their nuclei.", "PMID": 444070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6515", "title": "[Comparative study of dehydrogenase and diaphorase activity in spinal ganglion neurons in vivo and during their cultivation in vitro].", "content": "Enzymatic activity was investigated in spinal ganglia of 10-day-old chick embryo and in 10-day-old cultures of these ganglia (the method of \"flying glasses\"). Histochemical preparations were photometrically treated with the one-wave plug-method in the device MCFB-1 (LOMO) with the diameter of the probe 8 mkm. As the result of the investigations on optic density, a definite conclusion was made about relative activity of 15 enzymes and a general scheme of neuronal metabolism was graphically presented under the conditions of cultivation, enzymatic activity of krebs cycle was demonstrated to decrease, while that of diaphorase and lactate dehydrogenase to increase. The data on topography of enzymatic distribution in neurons, satellites, lemmoncytes and fibroblasts were also presented.", "contents": "[Comparative study of dehydrogenase and diaphorase activity in spinal ganglion neurons in vivo and during their cultivation in vitro]. Enzymatic activity was investigated in spinal ganglia of 10-day-old chick embryo and in 10-day-old cultures of these ganglia (the method of \"flying glasses\"). Histochemical preparations were photometrically treated with the one-wave plug-method in the device MCFB-1 (LOMO) with the diameter of the probe 8 mkm. As the result of the investigations on optic density, a definite conclusion was made about relative activity of 15 enzymes and a general scheme of neuronal metabolism was graphically presented under the conditions of cultivation, enzymatic activity of krebs cycle was demonstrated to decrease, while that of diaphorase and lactate dehydrogenase to increase. The data on topography of enzymatic distribution in neurons, satellites, lemmoncytes and fibroblasts were also presented.", "PMID": 444071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6516", "title": "[Morphometric analysis of the state of the intramural nervous apparatus of rat duodenum].", "content": "Structural organization of the intramural apparatus of the duodenum has been studied in normal white rats. By means of a planimeter, the area of the nerve cells and their nuclei has been estimated in serial sections of the cranial and caudal parts of the duodenum; a definite regularity on the nerve cell types distribution has been stated in different parts of the duodenum. Concentration of afferent nerve elements has been noted in the cranial part of the duodenum.", "contents": "[Morphometric analysis of the state of the intramural nervous apparatus of rat duodenum]. Structural organization of the intramural apparatus of the duodenum has been studied in normal white rats. By means of a planimeter, the area of the nerve cells and their nuclei has been estimated in serial sections of the cranial and caudal parts of the duodenum; a definite regularity on the nerve cell types distribution has been stated in different parts of the duodenum. Concentration of afferent nerve elements has been noted in the cranial part of the duodenum.", "PMID": 444072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6517", "title": "[Effect of pesticides on cholinesterase activity in the nervous elements of the heart in pregnant animals and fetuses].", "content": "Cholinestarase activity in the cardiac neural elements of pregnant animals and in their offspring was studied under the effect of chlororganic pesticide -- polychlorcamphen and phosphororganic pesticide -- valexone. The substances in question were demonstrated to produce variously pronounced unidirected changes in cholinesterase activity in neural structures that testifies to interconnection and dependence of the changes in the system mother -- fetus. The alterations observed in nonsynaptic (trophic) cholinesterase make it possible to speak about the disorder of cholinergic innervation and about the importance of acetilcholinesterase trophic function as a regulator of cellular processes, an inhibitory index of differentiation during embryogenesis.", "contents": "[Effect of pesticides on cholinesterase activity in the nervous elements of the heart in pregnant animals and fetuses]. Cholinestarase activity in the cardiac neural elements of pregnant animals and in their offspring was studied under the effect of chlororganic pesticide -- polychlorcamphen and phosphororganic pesticide -- valexone. The substances in question were demonstrated to produce variously pronounced unidirected changes in cholinesterase activity in neural structures that testifies to interconnection and dependence of the changes in the system mother -- fetus. The alterations observed in nonsynaptic (trophic) cholinesterase make it possible to speak about the disorder of cholinergic innervation and about the importance of acetilcholinesterase trophic function as a regulator of cellular processes, an inhibitory index of differentiation during embryogenesis.", "PMID": 444073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6518", "title": "[Hepatitis B surface antigen in the liver and pericholedochal lymph nodes in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver].", "content": "Morphological characteristics of the liver and the presence of HBsAg in the blood serum, liver tissue, and pericholedocheal lymph nodes were examined in 25 patients with chronic liver diseases and 2 asymptomatic carriers of HBsAg. The antigen in tissues was demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence and histochemically by staining with alcohol-arsein and aldehyde-fuxin. The antigen was found in the blood, liver tissue, and hepatocyte cytoplasm in both carriers and 10 patients. In 5 patients with liver cirrhosis and HBsAg antigenemia the antigen was also found in the liver tissue, in 1 patient it was absent in the blood but found in the liver, and in 2 patients it was absent in the blood and in the liver. In 5 patients with chronic hepatitis the antigen was demonstrated in the blood serum and the liver, in 12 patients it was not detected either in the blood or in the liver. In 8 patients enlarged pericholedocheal lymph nodes were examined, and in 6 of them HBsAg was detected in macrophages of the lymph nodes.", "contents": "[Hepatitis B surface antigen in the liver and pericholedochal lymph nodes in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver]. Morphological characteristics of the liver and the presence of HBsAg in the blood serum, liver tissue, and pericholedocheal lymph nodes were examined in 25 patients with chronic liver diseases and 2 asymptomatic carriers of HBsAg. The antigen in tissues was demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence and histochemically by staining with alcohol-arsein and aldehyde-fuxin. The antigen was found in the blood, liver tissue, and hepatocyte cytoplasm in both carriers and 10 patients. In 5 patients with liver cirrhosis and HBsAg antigenemia the antigen was also found in the liver tissue, in 1 patient it was absent in the blood but found in the liver, and in 2 patients it was absent in the blood and in the liver. In 5 patients with chronic hepatitis the antigen was demonstrated in the blood serum and the liver, in 12 patients it was not detected either in the blood or in the liver. In 8 patients enlarged pericholedocheal lymph nodes were examined, and in 6 of them HBsAg was detected in macrophages of the lymph nodes.", "PMID": 444082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6519", "title": "[Liver tissue lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes in cirrhosis].", "content": "Isoenzymes of the liver tissue lactate dehydrogenase (LDG) were examined in 37 patients with micro- and macronodular cirrhosis. LDG isoenzymes were studied by histochemical and cytophotometrical methods, electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel, densitometry. The results were treated statistically. Uneven (mosaic) distribution of LDG activity in hepatocytes was observed in hepatocirrhosis. Different hepatocytes and fibroblasts had dissimilar sets of LDG isoenzymes. Anodal isoenzymes showed a higher activity in the bile duct epithelium. Cathodal isoenzymes in hepatocytes were localized mostly near the external cell membrane and the nuclear membrane. Micronodular cirrhoses are characterized by an increased activity of LDG2 and LDG3 and a decreased activity of LDG5 in the liver tissue. Macronodular cirrhoses are characterized by a decreased activity of LDG1 and LDG3 and an increased activity of LDG5. In the presence of hepatocyte insufficiency the activity of LDG1 decreased. Changes in the liver tissue LDG isoenzymes profile is due to a number of degenerative and regeneratory lesions typical of the cirrhotic process. The determination of the profile of the liver tissue LDG isoenzymes is important for the establishment of the type of cirrhosis, the degree of hypoxia, the intensity of regeneration processes, and the effectiveness of the therapy given to the patient.", "contents": "[Liver tissue lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes in cirrhosis]. Isoenzymes of the liver tissue lactate dehydrogenase (LDG) were examined in 37 patients with micro- and macronodular cirrhosis. LDG isoenzymes were studied by histochemical and cytophotometrical methods, electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel, densitometry. The results were treated statistically. Uneven (mosaic) distribution of LDG activity in hepatocytes was observed in hepatocirrhosis. Different hepatocytes and fibroblasts had dissimilar sets of LDG isoenzymes. Anodal isoenzymes showed a higher activity in the bile duct epithelium. Cathodal isoenzymes in hepatocytes were localized mostly near the external cell membrane and the nuclear membrane. Micronodular cirrhoses are characterized by an increased activity of LDG2 and LDG3 and a decreased activity of LDG5 in the liver tissue. Macronodular cirrhoses are characterized by a decreased activity of LDG1 and LDG3 and an increased activity of LDG5. In the presence of hepatocyte insufficiency the activity of LDG1 decreased. Changes in the liver tissue LDG isoenzymes profile is due to a number of degenerative and regeneratory lesions typical of the cirrhotic process. The determination of the profile of the liver tissue LDG isoenzymes is important for the establishment of the type of cirrhosis, the degree of hypoxia, the intensity of regeneration processes, and the effectiveness of the therapy given to the patient.", "PMID": 444083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6520", "title": "[Hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver (classification, morphology and morphological differential diagnosis].", "content": "The current classification of hepatitis and hepatocirrhosis is evaluated on the basis of the literature analysis and the study of the author's own material. Morphological criteria for differential diagnosis of liver diseases of viral and alcohol etiology are proposed. A clinical pathologist examining a liver biopsy may confirm or establish the etiology of the disease, determine the degree of activity and compensation of the process. An analysis of these criteria helps a clinician to choose the method of treatment and to determine the prognosis of the disease.", "contents": "[Hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver (classification, morphology and morphological differential diagnosis]. The current classification of hepatitis and hepatocirrhosis is evaluated on the basis of the literature analysis and the study of the author's own material. Morphological criteria for differential diagnosis of liver diseases of viral and alcohol etiology are proposed. A clinical pathologist examining a liver biopsy may confirm or establish the etiology of the disease, determine the degree of activity and compensation of the process. An analysis of these criteria helps a clinician to choose the method of treatment and to determine the prognosis of the disease.", "PMID": 444084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6521", "title": "[Papillomatosis of the opening of the major duodenal papilla in chronic, recurrent pancreatitis (based on surgical biopsy data)].", "content": "Examinations of 55 major duodenal papillas (MDP) amputated in patients with chronic relapsing pancreatitis revealed papillomatosis of the opening zone in 20 (36%). Papillomatosis developed when the pancreating and bile ducts discharged into the duodenum separately at the top of MDP without forming an ampoule. Papillomatosis was manifested by fibrous-epithelial papillar hyperplastic outgrowths representing pathologically altered folds of the MDP mucous membrane. The features of changes in papillary outgrowths were shown to include circulatory disorders, lympho-plasmocytic infiltration of the stroma, adenomatosis, etc. The causes of papillomatosis development and its association with chronic relapsing pancreatitis are discussed.", "contents": "[Papillomatosis of the opening of the major duodenal papilla in chronic, recurrent pancreatitis (based on surgical biopsy data)]. Examinations of 55 major duodenal papillas (MDP) amputated in patients with chronic relapsing pancreatitis revealed papillomatosis of the opening zone in 20 (36%). Papillomatosis developed when the pancreating and bile ducts discharged into the duodenum separately at the top of MDP without forming an ampoule. Papillomatosis was manifested by fibrous-epithelial papillar hyperplastic outgrowths representing pathologically altered folds of the MDP mucous membrane. The features of changes in papillary outgrowths were shown to include circulatory disorders, lympho-plasmocytic infiltration of the stroma, adenomatosis, etc. The causes of papillomatosis development and its association with chronic relapsing pancreatitis are discussed.", "PMID": 444085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6522", "title": "[Gastric mucosa in esophageal cancer].", "content": "The fundal mucous membrane was examined histologically and morphometrically in 92 patients with oesophageal cancer and 5 patients with cancer of the cardial part of the stomach greatly extended into the oesophagus; the mucosa was obtained by operational biopsy. In 4.1% of the observations the mucosa was unchanged, in 30.9 per cent superficial gastritis, in 26.8% moderately marked atrophic and in 38.2% marked atrophic gastritis were found. In most patients gastritis appeared to preceed the main disease. A certain correlation was observed between the degree of atrophy of the gastric mucosa and the reduction of the secretory function, but this was observed in some of the patients only. In half of the patients with superficial gastritis achlorhydria was demonstrated.", "contents": "[Gastric mucosa in esophageal cancer]. The fundal mucous membrane was examined histologically and morphometrically in 92 patients with oesophageal cancer and 5 patients with cancer of the cardial part of the stomach greatly extended into the oesophagus; the mucosa was obtained by operational biopsy. In 4.1% of the observations the mucosa was unchanged, in 30.9 per cent superficial gastritis, in 26.8% moderately marked atrophic and in 38.2% marked atrophic gastritis were found. In most patients gastritis appeared to preceed the main disease. A certain correlation was observed between the degree of atrophy of the gastric mucosa and the reduction of the secretory function, but this was observed in some of the patients only. In half of the patients with superficial gastritis achlorhydria was demonstrated.", "PMID": 444086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6523", "title": "[Cytology of large cysts of the breast].", "content": "Cytological examinations of punctates of 200 large mammary gland cysts distinguished three variants thereof: cysts without signs of epithelium proliferation; cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation; and cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation and atypia. In 12 operated patients with the cyst of the second variant no cancer was detected. Among 9 operated patients with cysts of the third variant 3 were found to have intraductal cancer with initial invasion (including one case of malignized cystadenopapilloma). Detection in cytological examinations of cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation and atypia is sufficient for excision biopsy. Such patients should be considered as a higher risk group.", "contents": "[Cytology of large cysts of the breast]. Cytological examinations of punctates of 200 large mammary gland cysts distinguished three variants thereof: cysts without signs of epithelium proliferation; cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation; and cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation and atypia. In 12 operated patients with the cyst of the second variant no cancer was detected. Among 9 operated patients with cysts of the third variant 3 were found to have intraductal cancer with initial invasion (including one case of malignized cystadenopapilloma). Detection in cytological examinations of cysts with signs of epithelium proliferation and atypia is sufficient for excision biopsy. Such patients should be considered as a higher risk group.", "PMID": 444087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6524", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the microcirculatory bed of the myocardium in coronary insufficiency].", "content": "The features of microcirculation in the myocardium were studied experimentally in 20 dogs when the blood flow in the skirting branch of the left coronary artery was limited by 30 and 50%. The disorders developing in the zone of ischemia were found to consist of a number of adaptative and pathological changes: changes in the tension of microvessels with predominant dilatation of the venous genu; occlusion of the capillary lumens with extremely swollen endothelial cells and sometimes their compression by edematous cardiomyocytes; aggregations of red blood cells; dilatation of interendothelial junctions: activation of micropinocytosis; intestitial edema. The experimental results indicate that disorders in microhemocirculation, transport and intermediary metabolism are one of the causes of contractile myocardium damage when a focus of ischemia develops in it, alongside with the limitation of the flow capacity of the main artery.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the microcirculatory bed of the myocardium in coronary insufficiency]. The features of microcirculation in the myocardium were studied experimentally in 20 dogs when the blood flow in the skirting branch of the left coronary artery was limited by 30 and 50%. The disorders developing in the zone of ischemia were found to consist of a number of adaptative and pathological changes: changes in the tension of microvessels with predominant dilatation of the venous genu; occlusion of the capillary lumens with extremely swollen endothelial cells and sometimes their compression by edematous cardiomyocytes; aggregations of red blood cells; dilatation of interendothelial junctions: activation of micropinocytosis; intestitial edema. The experimental results indicate that disorders in microhemocirculation, transport and intermediary metabolism are one of the causes of contractile myocardium damage when a focus of ischemia develops in it, alongside with the limitation of the flow capacity of the main artery.", "PMID": 444088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6525", "title": "[Unusual forms of collagen fibrils in dermatoses].", "content": "Electron microscopic examinations of the skin from foci of lesions in scleroderma, psoriasis, parapsoriasis, and lupus erythematosus revealed two types of unusual collagen structures consisting of loosely packed fibrils 5--8 nm in diameter with a cross-striation period of 150--170 and 80--90 nm. The former were localized in the epi- or perineurium of pulpless nervous fibers of the derma, the latter among collagen fibers. These structures appear to occur rather widely in collagen metabolism disorders (tumours of neurogenic origin, some skin tumours, collagen diseases).", "contents": "[Unusual forms of collagen fibrils in dermatoses]. Electron microscopic examinations of the skin from foci of lesions in scleroderma, psoriasis, parapsoriasis, and lupus erythematosus revealed two types of unusual collagen structures consisting of loosely packed fibrils 5--8 nm in diameter with a cross-striation period of 150--170 and 80--90 nm. The former were localized in the epi- or perineurium of pulpless nervous fibers of the derma, the latter among collagen fibers. These structures appear to occur rather widely in collagen metabolism disorders (tumours of neurogenic origin, some skin tumours, collagen diseases).", "PMID": 444089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6526", "title": "[Hemochromatosis with a predominant lesion of the heart].", "content": "A fatal case of generalzyed hemochromatosis in a man of 30 was studied.The disease ran a course with the predominant involvement of the myocardium accompanied by circulatory insufficiency. At the end of the disease a large thrombus formed in the left ventrical cavity. No correlation between the biological tests pathognomonic for the disease (the normal iron and sugar content in the blood) and significant morphological changes in the visceral organs was observed. The familial predisposition to hemochromatosis was revealed.", "contents": "[Hemochromatosis with a predominant lesion of the heart]. A fatal case of generalzyed hemochromatosis in a man of 30 was studied.The disease ran a course with the predominant involvement of the myocardium accompanied by circulatory insufficiency. At the end of the disease a large thrombus formed in the left ventrical cavity. No correlation between the biological tests pathognomonic for the disease (the normal iron and sugar content in the blood) and significant morphological changes in the visceral organs was observed. The familial predisposition to hemochromatosis was revealed.", "PMID": 444090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6527", "title": "[Pathological anatomy of rubeolar embryo-fetopathy].", "content": "The paper describes two cases of congenital rubeolar embryo- and fetopathy which show that in infection with rubella virus in the 1st trimester of pregnancy the virus effect may be limited to the period of embryogenesis or extend to the fetal period as well. In the first instance, multiple developmental defects occur at the organ level; in prolonged virus effect organogenesis disorders are combined with tissue displasias and inflammatory processes, that is, the pathology typical of the fetal period. Congenital rubella is characterized by a subacute course and wide generalization of the alterative-productive inflammation: productive dermatitis, subacute productive-necrotic encephalitis and endophthalmitis, as well as giant-cell metamorphosis of alveolocytes.", "contents": "[Pathological anatomy of rubeolar embryo-fetopathy]. The paper describes two cases of congenital rubeolar embryo- and fetopathy which show that in infection with rubella virus in the 1st trimester of pregnancy the virus effect may be limited to the period of embryogenesis or extend to the fetal period as well. In the first instance, multiple developmental defects occur at the organ level; in prolonged virus effect organogenesis disorders are combined with tissue displasias and inflammatory processes, that is, the pathology typical of the fetal period. Congenital rubella is characterized by a subacute course and wide generalization of the alterative-productive inflammation: productive dermatitis, subacute productive-necrotic encephalitis and endophthalmitis, as well as giant-cell metamorphosis of alveolocytes.", "PMID": 444091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6528", "title": "[Microbes and cancer].", "content": "Recently, due to the use of germ-free animals in cancer research, many facts have been accumulated indicating that bacteria may produce different effects (enhancing or inhibiting) on carcinogenesis, depending on the features of the carcinogenic substance metabolism. At the same time, epidemiological investigations have shown that in human populations with a high or a low risk of cancer development (mostly cancer of the colon and mammary gland) the composition of the intestinal bacterial flora and its metabolic properties have peculiar features. In both instances, certain bacterial species are presumed to take part in the formation of final carcinogenic metabolites or in the synthesis of endogenic carcinogens (and/or cocarcinogens).", "contents": "[Microbes and cancer]. Recently, due to the use of germ-free animals in cancer research, many facts have been accumulated indicating that bacteria may produce different effects (enhancing or inhibiting) on carcinogenesis, depending on the features of the carcinogenic substance metabolism. At the same time, epidemiological investigations have shown that in human populations with a high or a low risk of cancer development (mostly cancer of the colon and mammary gland) the composition of the intestinal bacterial flora and its metabolic properties have peculiar features. In both instances, certain bacterial species are presumed to take part in the formation of final carcinogenic metabolites or in the synthesis of endogenic carcinogens (and/or cocarcinogens).", "PMID": 444094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6529", "title": "Measles and rubella virus antibodies in patients with multiple sclerosis. A longitudinal study of serum and CSF specimens by radioimmunoassay.", "content": "A longitudinal study on rubella, measles, and respiratory syncytial virus antibodies in serial serum and CSF specimens from 20 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was performed, using solid-phase radioimmunoassay. Albumin and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels were also measured to check the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and the intrathecal IgG production. All the patients had local IgG production in their CNA. A local antibody production against one or more of the viruses studied was evident in 15 patients. Fluctuations in the intrathecal viral antibody synthesis were evident in eight patients. No correlation was found between these changes and the clinical course of the disease. The results suggest that the intrathecal antibody synthesis in MS is only partially against any given virus, and in most patients the bulk of the oligoclonal CSF antibodies is against antigens other than those studied here.", "contents": "Measles and rubella virus antibodies in patients with multiple sclerosis. A longitudinal study of serum and CSF specimens by radioimmunoassay. A longitudinal study on rubella, measles, and respiratory syncytial virus antibodies in serial serum and CSF specimens from 20 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was performed, using solid-phase radioimmunoassay. Albumin and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels were also measured to check the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and the intrathecal IgG production. All the patients had local IgG production in their CNA. A local antibody production against one or more of the viruses studied was evident in 15 patients. Fluctuations in the intrathecal viral antibody synthesis were evident in eight patients. No correlation was found between these changes and the clinical course of the disease. The results suggest that the intrathecal antibody synthesis in MS is only partially against any given virus, and in most patients the bulk of the oligoclonal CSF antibodies is against antigens other than those studied here.", "PMID": 444095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6530", "title": "Generalized cortical electrodecremental event. Clinical and neurophysiological observations in patients with dystonic seizures.", "content": "Patients with seizures accompanied by generalized cortical electrodecremental event (CEE) have clusters of clinical spells with tonic, dystonic, or atonic components and involvement of autonomic functions. When electroencephalographically detectable foci are present, they behave in a peculiar way; throughout the entire cluster of seizures focal spiking is reduced in the short interictal periods as well as during each individual seizure with CEE, at which time it is suppressed. Focal firing reappears reinforced at the end of each spell and also at the end of the cluster. These facts suggest that the foci responsible for CEE are deeply located. A complex excitatory-inhibitory feedback probably exists between cortical and subcortical foci. These seizures should be differentiated from similar attacks of nonepileptic or epileptic nature. A correct diagnosis is essential given the different therapeutic implications.", "contents": "Generalized cortical electrodecremental event. Clinical and neurophysiological observations in patients with dystonic seizures. Patients with seizures accompanied by generalized cortical electrodecremental event (CEE) have clusters of clinical spells with tonic, dystonic, or atonic components and involvement of autonomic functions. When electroencephalographically detectable foci are present, they behave in a peculiar way; throughout the entire cluster of seizures focal spiking is reduced in the short interictal periods as well as during each individual seizure with CEE, at which time it is suppressed. Focal firing reappears reinforced at the end of each spell and also at the end of the cluster. These facts suggest that the foci responsible for CEE are deeply located. A complex excitatory-inhibitory feedback probably exists between cortical and subcortical foci. These seizures should be differentiated from similar attacks of nonepileptic or epileptic nature. A correct diagnosis is essential given the different therapeutic implications.", "PMID": 444096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6531", "title": "Flicker fusion thresholds in multiple sclerosis. A functional measure of neurological damage.", "content": "Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have been shown to have a measurable deterioration in the ability to perceive temporal variations of light. Compared to the traditional critical flicker fusion (CFF) measure, a modified flicker fusion test showed an improved sensitivity for denoting neurological deficit in temporal vision. One hundred twenty-two patients with MS were examined. The traditional CFF test exhibited abnormalities in 48%; the modified test exhibited abnormalities in 78% of the same patients. These results appear to be independent of whether or not the demyelinating disease clinically involved the visual system. Also, the percentage of abnormalities demonstrated by combining both techniques was unexpectedly high (60% to 80%) in patients with minimal evidence of neurological involvement.", "contents": "Flicker fusion thresholds in multiple sclerosis. A functional measure of neurological damage. Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have been shown to have a measurable deterioration in the ability to perceive temporal variations of light. Compared to the traditional critical flicker fusion (CFF) measure, a modified flicker fusion test showed an improved sensitivity for denoting neurological deficit in temporal vision. One hundred twenty-two patients with MS were examined. The traditional CFF test exhibited abnormalities in 48%; the modified test exhibited abnormalities in 78% of the same patients. These results appear to be independent of whether or not the demyelinating disease clinically involved the visual system. Also, the percentage of abnormalities demonstrated by combining both techniques was unexpectedly high (60% to 80%) in patients with minimal evidence of neurological involvement.", "PMID": 444097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6532", "title": "The pattern of memory loss resulting from intravenously administered diazepam.", "content": "A word recognition task was designed to determine the stage in memory affected by a single 10-mg intravenous injection of diazepam and the duration of the effect. Injection in three experimental subjects produced an anterograde amnesia for the 14 to 24-minute period immediately after injection. Memory loss resulted from impaired storage, the stage during which information is entered into memory. Retention and retrieval stages of memory were unaffected. This temporary amnesia may result from increased inhibition in the hippocampal system produced by diazepam, which shares many properties with the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid.", "contents": "The pattern of memory loss resulting from intravenously administered diazepam. A word recognition task was designed to determine the stage in memory affected by a single 10-mg intravenous injection of diazepam and the duration of the effect. Injection in three experimental subjects produced an anterograde amnesia for the 14 to 24-minute period immediately after injection. Memory loss resulted from impaired storage, the stage during which information is entered into memory. Retention and retrieval stages of memory were unaffected. This temporary amnesia may result from increased inhibition in the hippocampal system produced by diazepam, which shares many properties with the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid.", "PMID": 444098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6533", "title": "The bilateral isodense subdural hematoma on computerized tomographic scan.", "content": "Blood causes striking changes on computerized tomography. However, chronic subdural hematomas may become isodense with brain and therefore not visible directly. Midline and ventricular displacement, effacement of cortical sulci, narrowing of white matter on one side, and ventricular distortion should suggest a unilateral isodense process. Bilateral isodense subdural hematomas pose a major problem on computerized tomography since there are no indications of a mass lesion. A negative report could lull the clinician into a false sense of security. In these cases, general disappearance of sulci and considerable narrowing of ventricles are helpful findings. A particularly important and overlooked sign is an abnormally decreased bicaudate cerebroventricular index. Above all, a high degree of suspicion is vital.", "contents": "The bilateral isodense subdural hematoma on computerized tomographic scan. Blood causes striking changes on computerized tomography. However, chronic subdural hematomas may become isodense with brain and therefore not visible directly. Midline and ventricular displacement, effacement of cortical sulci, narrowing of white matter on one side, and ventricular distortion should suggest a unilateral isodense process. Bilateral isodense subdural hematomas pose a major problem on computerized tomography since there are no indications of a mass lesion. A negative report could lull the clinician into a false sense of security. In these cases, general disappearance of sulci and considerable narrowing of ventricles are helpful findings. A particularly important and overlooked sign is an abnormally decreased bicaudate cerebroventricular index. Above all, a high degree of suspicion is vital.", "PMID": 444099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6534", "title": "Early-morning dystonia. A late side effect of long-term levodopa therapy in Parkinson's disease.", "content": "Four women with Parkinson's disease undergoing prolonged levodopa therapy had daily episodes of dystonic posturing, affecting one lower extremity, several years after initiation of treatment. The dystonia occurred only in the early morning, on awakening and before the first dose of levodopa, when the patients were in the akinetic-rigid state with no dyskinesias. It further interfered with gait, slowly subsided within one to two hours, and did not recur until next morning. This abnormal involuntary posture was unaffected by manipulations of daily levodopa dosage and schedule, completely disappeared after withdrawal of drug therapy, and recurred following its readministration. Additional adverse reactions including dyskinesias, \"on-off\" phenomena, and declining efficacy of levodopa were present in all patients. Early-morning dystonia may represent another late side effect secondary to long-term levodopa administration in parkinsonism.", "contents": "Early-morning dystonia. A late side effect of long-term levodopa therapy in Parkinson's disease. Four women with Parkinson's disease undergoing prolonged levodopa therapy had daily episodes of dystonic posturing, affecting one lower extremity, several years after initiation of treatment. The dystonia occurred only in the early morning, on awakening and before the first dose of levodopa, when the patients were in the akinetic-rigid state with no dyskinesias. It further interfered with gait, slowly subsided within one to two hours, and did not recur until next morning. This abnormal involuntary posture was unaffected by manipulations of daily levodopa dosage and schedule, completely disappeared after withdrawal of drug therapy, and recurred following its readministration. Additional adverse reactions including dyskinesias, \"on-off\" phenomena, and declining efficacy of levodopa were present in all patients. Early-morning dystonia may represent another late side effect secondary to long-term levodopa administration in parkinsonism.", "PMID": 444100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6535", "title": "Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis during pregnancy. A surviving normal infant.", "content": "A normal infant was born to a 15-year-old girl who developed subacute sclerosing panencephalitis in the fifth month of pregnancy. The serum measles antibody titers of the infant gradually declined during the first year of life. The child, now age 3, has no neurological abnormalities.", "contents": "Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis during pregnancy. A surviving normal infant. A normal infant was born to a 15-year-old girl who developed subacute sclerosing panencephalitis in the fifth month of pregnancy. The serum measles antibody titers of the infant gradually declined during the first year of life. The child, now age 3, has no neurological abnormalities.", "PMID": 444101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6536", "title": "Use of the ECG in the diagnosis of childhood spinal muscular atrophy.", "content": "The appearance of tremors in patients with childhood, chronic spinal muscular atrophy has been known for years. We were struck by the presence of a \"muscle tremor\" artifact in the ECGs of all our patients with this diagnosis. This observation has not been noted previously. The consistency of this finding in patients with this disease is the basis for this report.", "contents": "Use of the ECG in the diagnosis of childhood spinal muscular atrophy. The appearance of tremors in patients with childhood, chronic spinal muscular atrophy has been known for years. We were struck by the presence of a \"muscle tremor\" artifact in the ECGs of all our patients with this diagnosis. This observation has not been noted previously. The consistency of this finding in patients with this disease is the basis for this report.", "PMID": 444102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6537", "title": "Craniopharyngioma with midbrain involvement.", "content": "An adult patient had a cranlopharyngloma that involved and displaced the midportion of the midbrain, producing Weber's syndrome. Oculomotor paresis in cranlopharyngloma is not always due to parasellar involvement but may be due to midbrain involvement.", "contents": "Craniopharyngioma with midbrain involvement. An adult patient had a cranlopharyngloma that involved and displaced the midportion of the midbrain, producing Weber's syndrome. Oculomotor paresis in cranlopharyngloma is not always due to parasellar involvement but may be due to midbrain involvement.", "PMID": 444103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6538", "title": "[Comparative results of trepanotrabeculectomy and iridencleisis in primary glaucoma].", "content": "For the last 10 years 500 iridencleisis and 250 trepanotrabeculectomies were performed. For this study are subjected only 205 cases of basal and total iridencleisis and 100 cases of trepanotrabeculectomy, performed in chronic open and chronic closed angle glaucoma. The authors point out that some common factors play the role on the final results, independently of the type of the operation. It was observed that the results were worse in patients having the diabetes and/or arterial hypertension, when the operation is performed in the advanced age or in the late stage of glaucoma, and also if the eye was already operated. To evaluate the result of the operations (basal and total iridencleisis, trepanotrabeculectomy) the authors estimate that is not enough to take the intraocular tension as the unic parameter, one should take in consideration also the visual field, visual acuity and also the state of the optic disc in the follow-up period (see Tbl. 4). This period should not be shorter than one year. With the trepanotrabeculectomy (85%) and with total iridencleisis (86,5%) the intraocular tensions could be normalised in the higher percentage than with the basal iridencleisis (75,5%). On the other hand, if one take also the other parameters for the evaluation (visual field, visual acuity, status of the optic disc) one could conclude that the best result was achieved with trepanotrabeculectomy (80% the complete consolidation), and than with total iridencleisis (69,4%) or basal iridencleisis (67%). In trepanotrabeculectomy the peroperative and postoperative complications are rare.", "contents": "[Comparative results of trepanotrabeculectomy and iridencleisis in primary glaucoma]. For the last 10 years 500 iridencleisis and 250 trepanotrabeculectomies were performed. For this study are subjected only 205 cases of basal and total iridencleisis and 100 cases of trepanotrabeculectomy, performed in chronic open and chronic closed angle glaucoma. The authors point out that some common factors play the role on the final results, independently of the type of the operation. It was observed that the results were worse in patients having the diabetes and/or arterial hypertension, when the operation is performed in the advanced age or in the late stage of glaucoma, and also if the eye was already operated. To evaluate the result of the operations (basal and total iridencleisis, trepanotrabeculectomy) the authors estimate that is not enough to take the intraocular tension as the unic parameter, one should take in consideration also the visual field, visual acuity and also the state of the optic disc in the follow-up period (see Tbl. 4). This period should not be shorter than one year. With the trepanotrabeculectomy (85%) and with total iridencleisis (86,5%) the intraocular tensions could be normalised in the higher percentage than with the basal iridencleisis (75,5%). On the other hand, if one take also the other parameters for the evaluation (visual field, visual acuity, status of the optic disc) one could conclude that the best result was achieved with trepanotrabeculectomy (80% the complete consolidation), and than with total iridencleisis (69,4%) or basal iridencleisis (67%). In trepanotrabeculectomy the peroperative and postoperative complications are rare.", "PMID": 444110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6539", "title": "[Surgical treatment of retinoschisis (author's transl)].", "content": "We have made a review of 20 retinoschisis without retinal detachment operated on 12 patients. There is no case of hereditary retinoschisis, the affection may occur at any age, and there is no preferential refractive error. Main surgical indications were macular involvement or impending involvement, and associated retinal tears. A good anatomical result has been obtained in 90% of our cases (18 out of 20) with 2/3 complete reattachments and 1/3 almost complete reattachments (with minimal and well sealed residual schisis). Association of cryocoagulation and indentation is more effective than cryocoagulation alone. On the functional point of view we have had 15% of improved visual acuities and 30% of worsened ones, thus surgical intervention implies macular risks that one must try to prevent by using procedures as atraumatic as possible.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of retinoschisis (author's transl)]. We have made a review of 20 retinoschisis without retinal detachment operated on 12 patients. There is no case of hereditary retinoschisis, the affection may occur at any age, and there is no preferential refractive error. Main surgical indications were macular involvement or impending involvement, and associated retinal tears. A good anatomical result has been obtained in 90% of our cases (18 out of 20) with 2/3 complete reattachments and 1/3 almost complete reattachments (with minimal and well sealed residual schisis). Association of cryocoagulation and indentation is more effective than cryocoagulation alone. On the functional point of view we have had 15% of improved visual acuities and 30% of worsened ones, thus surgical intervention implies macular risks that one must try to prevent by using procedures as atraumatic as possible.", "PMID": 444111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6540", "title": "[Uveitis and multiple sclerosis: myth or reality?].", "content": "The authors have examined three hundred cases of sclerosis (prospective study of an hundred patients, retrospective study of two hundred observations) in order to assess the frequency of uveitis during the disease and to make out a possible relation between the two diseases. The percentage of uveitis is small: 2% and the frequency of uveitis in multiple sclerosis appears not different of that of a normal population. In spite of the simularity of the pathogenic hypothesis, it does not look that a correlation may be made between the two diseases.", "contents": "[Uveitis and multiple sclerosis: myth or reality?]. The authors have examined three hundred cases of sclerosis (prospective study of an hundred patients, retrospective study of two hundred observations) in order to assess the frequency of uveitis during the disease and to make out a possible relation between the two diseases. The percentage of uveitis is small: 2% and the frequency of uveitis in multiple sclerosis appears not different of that of a normal population. In spite of the simularity of the pathogenic hypothesis, it does not look that a correlation may be made between the two diseases.", "PMID": 444112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6541", "title": "[34 epibulbar malignant tumours (author's transl)].", "content": "Based on a study of 34 cases, the authors make therapeutical and diagnostical references concerning the epibulbar malignant tumours. These were met with a frequency of 10% of the total amount of the malignant tumours of the visual apparatus. The most frequent setting were at the level of the bulbar conjunctiva and of the sclero-corneal limb, especially in front of the opening of the palpebral slit and in the temporal area. The histological examination of the tumours pointed out the following morphological types; epitheliomas (61%), especially spino-cellular, malignant melanomas (32%) and sarcomas (6%). The therapeutical attitude was the surgical one -- the accurate extirpation -- in the limited tumours, followed by radiotherapy when neoplasic lesions were found at the limit of section. In the invaded tumours, the exenteration of the orbit was performed followed by radiotherapy. On the terms of such a therapeutical conduct, the distant prognosis proved to be dependent on two factors: a. The early diagnosis, that is the stage of the therapeutical action. It is insisted upon the importance of the signs of malignization of some benign tumors: papillomas or naevi. b. The nature and origin of the tumour: the secondary tumours are more severe from the beginning.", "contents": "[34 epibulbar malignant tumours (author's transl)]. Based on a study of 34 cases, the authors make therapeutical and diagnostical references concerning the epibulbar malignant tumours. These were met with a frequency of 10% of the total amount of the malignant tumours of the visual apparatus. The most frequent setting were at the level of the bulbar conjunctiva and of the sclero-corneal limb, especially in front of the opening of the palpebral slit and in the temporal area. The histological examination of the tumours pointed out the following morphological types; epitheliomas (61%), especially spino-cellular, malignant melanomas (32%) and sarcomas (6%). The therapeutical attitude was the surgical one -- the accurate extirpation -- in the limited tumours, followed by radiotherapy when neoplasic lesions were found at the limit of section. In the invaded tumours, the exenteration of the orbit was performed followed by radiotherapy. On the terms of such a therapeutical conduct, the distant prognosis proved to be dependent on two factors: a. The early diagnosis, that is the stage of the therapeutical action. It is insisted upon the importance of the signs of malignization of some benign tumors: papillomas or naevi. b. The nature and origin of the tumour: the secondary tumours are more severe from the beginning.", "PMID": 444115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6542", "title": "[Remarks concerning a case of oculogyric crisis (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of intermittent spasm of the oculo-palpebral motility present features which permit its inclusion among oculogyric crisis. The therapy with clonazepam gave good results supporting the etiological hypothesis of an alteration of the neurons at level of the mesencephalic reticular system.", "contents": "[Remarks concerning a case of oculogyric crisis (author's transl)]. A case of intermittent spasm of the oculo-palpebral motility present features which permit its inclusion among oculogyric crisis. The therapy with clonazepam gave good results supporting the etiological hypothesis of an alteration of the neurons at level of the mesencephalic reticular system.", "PMID": 444116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6543", "title": "Small choroidal melanomas. A long-term follow-up study.", "content": "Complete follow-up information was obtained on 65 patients whose eyes had been enucleated for small choroidal melanomas three months to 34 years previously. All tumors were 300 cu mm (10 x 10 x 3 mm) or less in volume. The average and median lengths of follow-up were nine years and 7.2 years, respectively. The 5-, 10-, and 15-year tumor-related death rates were found to be lower than those previously reported for small melanomas after enucleation, and the same as the estimated tumor-related mortality in patients who had not undergone enucleation. The average volume of tumors that caused metastatic death was more than twice that of tumors that did not. There were no metastatic deaths in 42 patients with tumors less than 98 cu mm (7 x 7 x 2 mm) in volume. Waiting to observe growth in tumors less than 98 cu mm in size did not appear to increase the risk of death from metastatic melanoma.", "contents": "Small choroidal melanomas. A long-term follow-up study. Complete follow-up information was obtained on 65 patients whose eyes had been enucleated for small choroidal melanomas three months to 34 years previously. All tumors were 300 cu mm (10 x 10 x 3 mm) or less in volume. The average and median lengths of follow-up were nine years and 7.2 years, respectively. The 5-, 10-, and 15-year tumor-related death rates were found to be lower than those previously reported for small melanomas after enucleation, and the same as the estimated tumor-related mortality in patients who had not undergone enucleation. The average volume of tumors that caused metastatic death was more than twice that of tumors that did not. There were no metastatic deaths in 42 patients with tumors less than 98 cu mm (7 x 7 x 2 mm) in volume. Waiting to observe growth in tumors less than 98 cu mm in size did not appear to increase the risk of death from metastatic melanoma.", "PMID": 444117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6544", "title": "Hysterical hemianopia. The 'missing half' field defect.", "content": "Hysterical hemianopias are uncommon and usually occur in association with other lateralized complaints. The most frequent pattern consists of decreased vision in one eye, an ipsilateral hemianopia on testing the \"affected\" eye, full fields in the other eye, and a complete hemianopia toward the affected side on testng with both eyes open. The incompatibility of the monocular and binocular fields quickly demonstrates the functional nature of this alleged visual loss.", "contents": "Hysterical hemianopia. The 'missing half' field defect. Hysterical hemianopias are uncommon and usually occur in association with other lateralized complaints. The most frequent pattern consists of decreased vision in one eye, an ipsilateral hemianopia on testing the \"affected\" eye, full fields in the other eye, and a complete hemianopia toward the affected side on testng with both eyes open. The incompatibility of the monocular and binocular fields quickly demonstrates the functional nature of this alleged visual loss.", "PMID": 444118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6545", "title": "Photoreceptor misalignment accompanying a fibrous scar.", "content": "A 9-year-old boy with dense fibrous scars at the macula had visual acuities of 6/12 and 6/9 and an abnormal color match (pseudoprotanomaly). The Stiles-Crawford effect functions were abnormal in both eyes, showing maximal sensitivity at the nasal edge of each pupil. The data suggest that the foveal photoreceptors, although spared destruction by an adjacent focus of healed chorioretinitis, have been distorted by fibrous traction arising from that defect.", "contents": "Photoreceptor misalignment accompanying a fibrous scar. A 9-year-old boy with dense fibrous scars at the macula had visual acuities of 6/12 and 6/9 and an abnormal color match (pseudoprotanomaly). The Stiles-Crawford effect functions were abnormal in both eyes, showing maximal sensitivity at the nasal edge of each pupil. The data suggest that the foveal photoreceptors, although spared destruction by an adjacent focus of healed chorioretinitis, have been distorted by fibrous traction arising from that defect.", "PMID": 444119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6546", "title": "Lactate dehydrogenase levels and isozyme patterns. Measurements in the aqueous humor and serum of retinoblastoma patients.", "content": "Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was determined in 24 cases of histologically proved retinoblastoma. The mean level was 1,825 IU/L, with a range of 10 to 15,920 IU/L. Twenty-two patients had elevated aqueous humor LDH levels. In two, the aqueous humor level was within the normal range. Student's t testing showed a highly significant difference between cataract and retinoblastoma aqueous humor. The retinoblastoma aqueous humor to blood ratio ranged from 0.045 to 58,529--not a good index of retinoblastoma. Isozyme patterns of retinoblastoma aqueous humor were statistically similar to those of normal cataract aqueous humor. The serum LDH level of cataract patients was not statistically different from that of retinoblastoma patients. The LDH 5/LDH 1 ratio of retinoblastoma aqueous humor ranged from 0.042 to 27.05--not a good index of retinoblastoma, as 28 of 34 aqueous samples of cataract patients had LDH 5 greater than LDH 1. Ten of 13 retinoblastoma patients had aqueous humor LDH 5 greater than LDH 1. The best index of the presence or absence of retinoblastoma is the total aqueous humor LDH level.", "contents": "Lactate dehydrogenase levels and isozyme patterns. Measurements in the aqueous humor and serum of retinoblastoma patients. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was determined in 24 cases of histologically proved retinoblastoma. The mean level was 1,825 IU/L, with a range of 10 to 15,920 IU/L. Twenty-two patients had elevated aqueous humor LDH levels. In two, the aqueous humor level was within the normal range. Student's t testing showed a highly significant difference between cataract and retinoblastoma aqueous humor. The retinoblastoma aqueous humor to blood ratio ranged from 0.045 to 58,529--not a good index of retinoblastoma. Isozyme patterns of retinoblastoma aqueous humor were statistically similar to those of normal cataract aqueous humor. The serum LDH level of cataract patients was not statistically different from that of retinoblastoma patients. The LDH 5/LDH 1 ratio of retinoblastoma aqueous humor ranged from 0.042 to 27.05--not a good index of retinoblastoma, as 28 of 34 aqueous samples of cataract patients had LDH 5 greater than LDH 1. Ten of 13 retinoblastoma patients had aqueous humor LDH 5 greater than LDH 1. The best index of the presence or absence of retinoblastoma is the total aqueous humor LDH level.", "PMID": 444120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6547", "title": "Familial corneal hypesthesia.", "content": "A 4-year-old boy with severe, diffuse, asymptomatic, punctate, epithelial corneal erosions had bilateral sharply decreased corneal sensation with normal skin sensation in the distribution of the trigeminal nerves. Subsequent family studies disclosed five family members with similar corneal changes and decreased corneal sensation and no punctate erosions. None had decreased skin sensation in the distribution of the fifth cranial nerve. No environmental factors or evidence of local or systemic disease accounted for these findings.", "contents": "Familial corneal hypesthesia. A 4-year-old boy with severe, diffuse, asymptomatic, punctate, epithelial corneal erosions had bilateral sharply decreased corneal sensation with normal skin sensation in the distribution of the trigeminal nerves. Subsequent family studies disclosed five family members with similar corneal changes and decreased corneal sensation and no punctate erosions. None had decreased skin sensation in the distribution of the fifth cranial nerve. No environmental factors or evidence of local or systemic disease accounted for these findings.", "PMID": 444121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6548", "title": "Ophthalmomyiasis interna posterior. Subretinal tracks and intraocular larvae.", "content": "Only seven cases of identifiable intraocular botfly larva infestation have been reported in North America--five since 1969. Two additional cases, both from the same institution, are documented here. The offending maggot or larva was visible in both instances. The findings in each case were diagnostically and morphologically striking. The characteristic funduscopic finding of subretinal tracks, along with the appearance of the larva--encysted in one patient and free-floating in the other-deserves emphasis, since this condition is not always benign and may not be as rare as previously assumed.", "contents": "Ophthalmomyiasis interna posterior. Subretinal tracks and intraocular larvae. Only seven cases of identifiable intraocular botfly larva infestation have been reported in North America--five since 1969. Two additional cases, both from the same institution, are documented here. The offending maggot or larva was visible in both instances. The findings in each case were diagnostically and morphologically striking. The characteristic funduscopic finding of subretinal tracks, along with the appearance of the larva--encysted in one patient and free-floating in the other-deserves emphasis, since this condition is not always benign and may not be as rare as previously assumed.", "PMID": 444122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6549", "title": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis with ocular prostheses.", "content": "In seven patients who each had either a methyl methacrylate corneal shell, a postenucleation ocular prosthesis, or a keratoprosthesis, giant papillary conjunctivitis of the tarsus of the upper lids developed after prolonged wear. These cases expand the spectrum of disease that was initally described in wearers of hard and soft contact lenses. The papillary changes in prostheses wearers did not always produce symptoms and were not readily reversible. Basophils and mast cells characterized the inflammatory infiltrate, suggestng an antigen-antibody mechanism underlying the response. Increased production of epithelial mucin, in contrast to goblet cell mucin, may play a role in producing symptoms in this syndrome.", "contents": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis with ocular prostheses. In seven patients who each had either a methyl methacrylate corneal shell, a postenucleation ocular prosthesis, or a keratoprosthesis, giant papillary conjunctivitis of the tarsus of the upper lids developed after prolonged wear. These cases expand the spectrum of disease that was initally described in wearers of hard and soft contact lenses. The papillary changes in prostheses wearers did not always produce symptoms and were not readily reversible. Basophils and mast cells characterized the inflammatory infiltrate, suggestng an antigen-antibody mechanism underlying the response. Increased production of epithelial mucin, in contrast to goblet cell mucin, may play a role in producing symptoms in this syndrome.", "PMID": 444123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6550", "title": "Ocular findings in Kenny's syndrome.", "content": "In 1966, Kenny described two patients with an unusual congenital syndrome including dwarfism, thickened long bone cortex, transient hypocalcemia, and normal intelligence. These and other patients previously were incorrectly described as \"myopic\". Ocular findings in four subjects ranged from uncomplicated nanophthalmos with hyperopia to extreme pseudopapilledema, vascular tortuosity, and mucular crowding. Postmortem findings from one patient showed calcium deposits demonstrable only by special histochemical stains that were distributed uniquely in the cornea. This distribution differed greatly from the pattern seen in band keratopathy. Retinal calcification was also an unusual feature. Because one patient exhibited a pseudodoubling of the optic papilla, the literature was reviewed. We conclude that no convincing case of true doubling of the optic nerve has been described. Ophthalmologists should be alert for undiagnosed electrolyte abnormalities, especially hypocalcemia, in patients with Kenney's syndrome.", "contents": "Ocular findings in Kenny's syndrome. In 1966, Kenny described two patients with an unusual congenital syndrome including dwarfism, thickened long bone cortex, transient hypocalcemia, and normal intelligence. These and other patients previously were incorrectly described as \"myopic\". Ocular findings in four subjects ranged from uncomplicated nanophthalmos with hyperopia to extreme pseudopapilledema, vascular tortuosity, and mucular crowding. Postmortem findings from one patient showed calcium deposits demonstrable only by special histochemical stains that were distributed uniquely in the cornea. This distribution differed greatly from the pattern seen in band keratopathy. Retinal calcification was also an unusual feature. Because one patient exhibited a pseudodoubling of the optic papilla, the literature was reviewed. We conclude that no convincing case of true doubling of the optic nerve has been described. Ophthalmologists should be alert for undiagnosed electrolyte abnormalities, especially hypocalcemia, in patients with Kenney's syndrome.", "PMID": 444124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6551", "title": "Double elevator palsy.", "content": "Of 15 patients with monocular limitation of elevation, six had no deviation in primary gaze while the remaining nine had hypotropia of the involved eye. Twelve of 15 patients had restriction to upgaze on forced duction testing. Eleven of these 12 had normal upward saccadic velocity, which suggested normal elevator function. Four patients had reduced saccadic velocity, which indicated true elevator weakness. Superior rectus muscle paresis alone could account for limited elevation and would reduce upward saccadic speed. Patients with a diagnosis of \"double elevator palsy\" only infrequently (about one quarter of cases) have palsy of an elevator muscle and may have only a single elevator palsy. The identification of a true elevator weakness is most important in planning management.", "contents": "Double elevator palsy. Of 15 patients with monocular limitation of elevation, six had no deviation in primary gaze while the remaining nine had hypotropia of the involved eye. Twelve of 15 patients had restriction to upgaze on forced duction testing. Eleven of these 12 had normal upward saccadic velocity, which suggested normal elevator function. Four patients had reduced saccadic velocity, which indicated true elevator weakness. Superior rectus muscle paresis alone could account for limited elevation and would reduce upward saccadic speed. Patients with a diagnosis of \"double elevator palsy\" only infrequently (about one quarter of cases) have palsy of an elevator muscle and may have only a single elevator palsy. The identification of a true elevator weakness is most important in planning management.", "PMID": 444125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6552", "title": "Normal and staphylomatous sclera of high myopia. An electron microscopic study.", "content": "The posterior sclera of three normal eyes and five staphylomatous, myopic eyes was examined by electron microscopy. The following notable differences were found in myopic sclera: a predominantly lamellar, collagen fiber bundle arrangement; a reduction in the diameter of the fibrils; a greater dispersion for the range of fibril diameters; an increase in unusual star-shaped fibrils on cross section; and a greater prevalence of fibril groups with uniform but extremely fine diameters. These findings essentially agree with those in other studies of the myopic sclera. The ultramicroscopic changes encountered inpathologic myopia are judged to be compatible with an abnormal proteoglycan composition of the interfibrillary substance in the ectatic sclera.", "contents": "Normal and staphylomatous sclera of high myopia. An electron microscopic study. The posterior sclera of three normal eyes and five staphylomatous, myopic eyes was examined by electron microscopy. The following notable differences were found in myopic sclera: a predominantly lamellar, collagen fiber bundle arrangement; a reduction in the diameter of the fibrils; a greater dispersion for the range of fibril diameters; an increase in unusual star-shaped fibrils on cross section; and a greater prevalence of fibril groups with uniform but extremely fine diameters. These findings essentially agree with those in other studies of the myopic sclera. The ultramicroscopic changes encountered inpathologic myopia are judged to be compatible with an abnormal proteoglycan composition of the interfibrillary substance in the ectatic sclera.", "PMID": 444126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6553", "title": "Benign epithelioid cell nevi of the iris.", "content": "Two benign acquired melanocytic lesions of the iris stroma had distinctive clinical and pathologic features. One tumor was loculated and polypoid, suggesting ectopic glandular tissue, while the other was a flat tumor with a rich surface capillarity. Both lesions histologically were composed of mononucleated, binucleated, and multinucleated hypopigmented epithelioid and elongated \"myoid\" cells, widely separated in a finely fibrillar eosinophilic stroma. The ultrastructural features of one case included hyperconvoluted nuclei, conspicuous cytoplasmic filaments are rare, filamentary-striated (leptomeric) structures, scant organelles and inclusions except for numerous mitochondria and glycogen granules, small and infrequent melanosomes, and a fibrillary extracellular matrix focally organized into banded basement membrane material.", "contents": "Benign epithelioid cell nevi of the iris. Two benign acquired melanocytic lesions of the iris stroma had distinctive clinical and pathologic features. One tumor was loculated and polypoid, suggesting ectopic glandular tissue, while the other was a flat tumor with a rich surface capillarity. Both lesions histologically were composed of mononucleated, binucleated, and multinucleated hypopigmented epithelioid and elongated \"myoid\" cells, widely separated in a finely fibrillar eosinophilic stroma. The ultrastructural features of one case included hyperconvoluted nuclei, conspicuous cytoplasmic filaments are rare, filamentary-striated (leptomeric) structures, scant organelles and inclusions except for numerous mitochondria and glycogen granules, small and infrequent melanosomes, and a fibrillary extracellular matrix focally organized into banded basement membrane material.", "PMID": 444127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6554", "title": "Repair of an inadvertent buttonhole or leaking filtering bleb.", "content": "Buttonholing of conjunctival flaps at the time of filtering glaucoma surgery or a leak in the flap postoperatively can cause serious problems and may be most difficult to repair. A new delicate atraumatic needle has been used successfully in five cases to close conjunctiva to conjunctiva or conjunctiva to cornea defects.", "contents": "Repair of an inadvertent buttonhole or leaking filtering bleb. Buttonholing of conjunctival flaps at the time of filtering glaucoma surgery or a leak in the flap postoperatively can cause serious problems and may be most difficult to repair. A new delicate atraumatic needle has been used successfully in five cases to close conjunctiva to conjunctiva or conjunctiva to cornea defects.", "PMID": 444128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6555", "title": "Senile entropion.", "content": "A new surgical procedure has been developed for the correction of senile entropion of the lower lid. The procedure consists of horizontal shortening of the lower lid by a pentagonal wedge resection combined with an infratarsal eyelid suture technique. Twenty eyelids of 13 patients with entropion have been operated on over the last 4 1/2 years with use of various modificatons of this procedure. The average follow-up period is two years three months, with the longest being 4 1/2 years and the shortest being three months. There has only been one temporary recurrence and no overcorrections. The technique is simple and effective when applied to chronic senile entropion unassociated with severe enophthalmos or any cicatricial component.", "contents": "Senile entropion. A new surgical procedure has been developed for the correction of senile entropion of the lower lid. The procedure consists of horizontal shortening of the lower lid by a pentagonal wedge resection combined with an infratarsal eyelid suture technique. Twenty eyelids of 13 patients with entropion have been operated on over the last 4 1/2 years with use of various modificatons of this procedure. The average follow-up period is two years three months, with the longest being 4 1/2 years and the shortest being three months. There has only been one temporary recurrence and no overcorrections. The technique is simple and effective when applied to chronic senile entropion unassociated with severe enophthalmos or any cicatricial component.", "PMID": 444129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6556", "title": "Intraocular penetration of topically applied lincomycin hydrochloride in rabbits.", "content": "Ocular penetration of lincomycin hydrochloride in albino rabbits was determined by bioassay. On topical application, the frequency of multiple instillation of drops played an important role in producing therapeutic levels in the anterior chambers. Therapeutic levels were attained in the cornea, aqueous humor, and iris-ciliary body, with peak values occurring at 30 to 45 minutes. Varying the pH of the dosing solution did not change ocular absorption and distribution substantially. Removal of corneal epithelium, however, greatly enhanced absorption. Relative to clindamycin, lincomycin hydrochloride had longer onset of peak values and lower overall concentration in ocular tissues. Intravitreous injection of lincomycin hydrochloride produced therapeutic and steady levels of antibiotic in anterior chambers. Injection produced a concentration in aqueous humor twice that achievable topically. The major route of elimination from the posterior chamber was through retina-choroid.", "contents": "Intraocular penetration of topically applied lincomycin hydrochloride in rabbits. Ocular penetration of lincomycin hydrochloride in albino rabbits was determined by bioassay. On topical application, the frequency of multiple instillation of drops played an important role in producing therapeutic levels in the anterior chambers. Therapeutic levels were attained in the cornea, aqueous humor, and iris-ciliary body, with peak values occurring at 30 to 45 minutes. Varying the pH of the dosing solution did not change ocular absorption and distribution substantially. Removal of corneal epithelium, however, greatly enhanced absorption. Relative to clindamycin, lincomycin hydrochloride had longer onset of peak values and lower overall concentration in ocular tissues. Intravitreous injection of lincomycin hydrochloride produced therapeutic and steady levels of antibiotic in anterior chambers. Injection produced a concentration in aqueous humor twice that achievable topically. The major route of elimination from the posterior chamber was through retina-choroid.", "PMID": 444130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6557", "title": "The effect of phenylephrine on the cornea.", "content": "Rabbit corneas were treated with three drops of phenylephrine hydrochloride with the epithelium intact or denuded. Corneal thickness was measured before and after drug treatment, and at various times after treatment the corneas were fixed for scanning and transmission electron microscopic observation. The results of this study show that phenylephrine caused a dramatic increase in corneal thickness (drug-induced edema) and cellular vacuolation within the keratocytes and endothelial cells in the corneas without the epithelium. Corneal thickness did not change and the ultrastructural changes were minimal following drug application in those corneas with the epithelium intact. Results of this study also suggest that phenylephrine has a cytotoxic effect on the corneal endothelium and keratocytes when used in corneas where the epithelium has been removed. In coreas with intact epithelium, the damage was less severe and limited to the epithelium.", "contents": "The effect of phenylephrine on the cornea. Rabbit corneas were treated with three drops of phenylephrine hydrochloride with the epithelium intact or denuded. Corneal thickness was measured before and after drug treatment, and at various times after treatment the corneas were fixed for scanning and transmission electron microscopic observation. The results of this study show that phenylephrine caused a dramatic increase in corneal thickness (drug-induced edema) and cellular vacuolation within the keratocytes and endothelial cells in the corneas without the epithelium. Corneal thickness did not change and the ultrastructural changes were minimal following drug application in those corneas with the epithelium intact. Results of this study also suggest that phenylephrine has a cytotoxic effect on the corneal endothelium and keratocytes when used in corneas where the epithelium has been removed. In coreas with intact epithelium, the damage was less severe and limited to the epithelium.", "PMID": 444131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6558", "title": "Factors related to corneal epithelial complications after closed vitrectomy in diabetics.", "content": "In a series of 30 vitrectomy patients, postoperative corneal complications developed in 14 (47%). Thirteen (92%) of the 14 patients with complications were diabetic. Other factors that were positively correlated with the development of corneal complications included decreased corneal sensitivity, intraoperative lensectomy, and intraoperative epithelial debridement. The corneal complications involved the epithelium in 11 (78%) of the 14 complicated cases, with involvement of the endothelium (as manifested by stromal edema) in five (35%) cases. The diabetic human corneal epithelium contains considerable levels of sorbitol and fructose, which indicates the probable presence of the sorbitol pathway. As in the lens, this pathway may lead to osmotic changes that make the diabetic corneal epithelium more vulnerable to damage intraoperatively. Postoperatively, reepithelialization is delayed because of a probable failure of adhesion of cells to the underlying basement membrane.", "contents": "Factors related to corneal epithelial complications after closed vitrectomy in diabetics. In a series of 30 vitrectomy patients, postoperative corneal complications developed in 14 (47%). Thirteen (92%) of the 14 patients with complications were diabetic. Other factors that were positively correlated with the development of corneal complications included decreased corneal sensitivity, intraoperative lensectomy, and intraoperative epithelial debridement. The corneal complications involved the epithelium in 11 (78%) of the 14 complicated cases, with involvement of the endothelium (as manifested by stromal edema) in five (35%) cases. The diabetic human corneal epithelium contains considerable levels of sorbitol and fructose, which indicates the probable presence of the sorbitol pathway. As in the lens, this pathway may lead to osmotic changes that make the diabetic corneal epithelium more vulnerable to damage intraoperatively. Postoperatively, reepithelialization is delayed because of a probable failure of adhesion of cells to the underlying basement membrane.", "PMID": 444136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6559", "title": "Schirmer test after topical anesthesia and the tear meniscus height in normal eyes.", "content": "The height of the inferior tear meniscus was measured in 86 normal eyes. A value greater than 0.1 mm was obtained in 93% of the eyes that were studied. However, attempts to correlate meniscus height with subsequent Schirmer test results showed that these measurements varied randomly. Schirmer tests that were conducted on 265 eyes without instillation of 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride and on 466 eyes with proparacaine showed that topical anesthesia reduced mean test values by 40%. When proparacaine was used prior to testing, no decrease in tear production with advancing age was demonstrated, nor were results significantly different in males and females. Schirmer test values, ranging from 0 to 3 mm, were obtained in 15% of the normal volunteers when the test was performed after instillation of topical anesthesia and after blotting of the tear lake from the inferior cul-de-sac.", "contents": "Schirmer test after topical anesthesia and the tear meniscus height in normal eyes. The height of the inferior tear meniscus was measured in 86 normal eyes. A value greater than 0.1 mm was obtained in 93% of the eyes that were studied. However, attempts to correlate meniscus height with subsequent Schirmer test results showed that these measurements varied randomly. Schirmer tests that were conducted on 265 eyes without instillation of 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride and on 466 eyes with proparacaine showed that topical anesthesia reduced mean test values by 40%. When proparacaine was used prior to testing, no decrease in tear production with advancing age was demonstrated, nor were results significantly different in males and females. Schirmer test values, ranging from 0 to 3 mm, were obtained in 15% of the normal volunteers when the test was performed after instillation of topical anesthesia and after blotting of the tear lake from the inferior cul-de-sac.", "PMID": 444137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6560", "title": "Fluorescein angiography in pigmented iris tumors.", "content": "Three pigmented iris tumors were studied with fluorescein angiography. Two malignant melanomas leaked dye very early in the arterial phase, while blockage of fluorescence was noted in one melanocytoma. The angiographic appearance of these three lesions was consistent with that, which would be anticipated, based on knowledge of similar lesions in the fundus of the eye. We recommend that fluorescein angiography be performed for all pigmented iris tumors as part of the diagnostic evaluation.", "contents": "Fluorescein angiography in pigmented iris tumors. Three pigmented iris tumors were studied with fluorescein angiography. Two malignant melanomas leaked dye very early in the arterial phase, while blockage of fluorescence was noted in one melanocytoma. The angiographic appearance of these three lesions was consistent with that, which would be anticipated, based on knowledge of similar lesions in the fundus of the eye. We recommend that fluorescein angiography be performed for all pigmented iris tumors as part of the diagnostic evaluation.", "PMID": 444138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6561", "title": "Talc emboli and macular ischemia in intravenous drug abuse.", "content": "A patient with decreased visual acuity had small, glistening white particles that were scattered over both posterior poles. Monochromatic fundus photography revealed ghost vessels and intraluminal particulate matter in small retinal vessels. Fluorescein angiography demonstrated nonperfusion of small arterioles and macular capillaries. The patient admitted to multiple intravenous injections of crushed methylphenidate (Ritalin) hydrochloride tablets, which contain talc 18 months prior to examination. To our knowledge, visual loss and irreversible macular ischemia from talc emboli have not been previously documented.", "contents": "Talc emboli and macular ischemia in intravenous drug abuse. A patient with decreased visual acuity had small, glistening white particles that were scattered over both posterior poles. Monochromatic fundus photography revealed ghost vessels and intraluminal particulate matter in small retinal vessels. Fluorescein angiography demonstrated nonperfusion of small arterioles and macular capillaries. The patient admitted to multiple intravenous injections of crushed methylphenidate (Ritalin) hydrochloride tablets, which contain talc 18 months prior to examination. To our knowledge, visual loss and irreversible macular ischemia from talc emboli have not been previously documented.", "PMID": 444139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6562", "title": "Blue field entoptic phenomenon in cataract patients.", "content": "The blue field entoptic phenomenon (BFE), which allows the observation of one's own leukocytes flowing in macular retinal capillaries, was used to predict postoperative macular function in 136 consecutive patients undergoing uncomplicated cataract operation. The results were compared to those obtained with three commonly used tests: two-light discrimination, color perception, and the Purkinje vascular entoptic phenomenon. All four tests identified a nearly equal number of the good maculae (visual acuity 20/40 of better) ranging from 87% for the two-light discrimination test to 94% for the BFE test. However, the tests varied greatly in predicting poor macular function (visual acuity 20/50 or worse). The BFE test identified more than 75% of the poor maculae; the Purkinje vascular entoptic test and the two-light discrimination test, only 22%; and the color perception test, 11%. A positive response to the BFE test indicated a .98 probability of good macular function; a negative response indicated a .82 probability of poor macular function, predictions that were better than the other three tests or their combination.", "contents": "Blue field entoptic phenomenon in cataract patients. The blue field entoptic phenomenon (BFE), which allows the observation of one's own leukocytes flowing in macular retinal capillaries, was used to predict postoperative macular function in 136 consecutive patients undergoing uncomplicated cataract operation. The results were compared to those obtained with three commonly used tests: two-light discrimination, color perception, and the Purkinje vascular entoptic phenomenon. All four tests identified a nearly equal number of the good maculae (visual acuity 20/40 of better) ranging from 87% for the two-light discrimination test to 94% for the BFE test. However, the tests varied greatly in predicting poor macular function (visual acuity 20/50 or worse). The BFE test identified more than 75% of the poor maculae; the Purkinje vascular entoptic test and the two-light discrimination test, only 22%; and the color perception test, 11%. A positive response to the BFE test indicated a .98 probability of good macular function; a negative response indicated a .82 probability of poor macular function, predictions that were better than the other three tests or their combination.", "PMID": 444140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6563", "title": "Pupillary and visual field evaluation in patients with melanocytoma of the optic disc.", "content": "Twenty patients with melanocytoma of the optic disc underwent Goldmann perimetry and pupillary evaluation. Two patients (10%) had normal visual fields. Three (15%) had minimal blind spot enlargement. Fifteen patients (75%) had a greatly enlarged blind spot, of which ten had concomitant nerve fiber bundle field defects. These consisted of a nasal step in two cases (10%), relative nerve fiber bundle defects in four cases (20%), and an absolute arcuate defect in four cases (20%). The blind spot enlargement relates to the pigmented tumor extended beyond the disc boundary, thereby shading the peripapillary retina. The nerve fiber bundle defects result from injury to the visual axons passing through the nerve head, although the mechanism is uncertain. A Marcus Gunn pupillary sign produced by the melanocytoma was found in six patients (30%), all of whom had a substantial relative or absolute nerve fiber bundle defect.", "contents": "Pupillary and visual field evaluation in patients with melanocytoma of the optic disc. Twenty patients with melanocytoma of the optic disc underwent Goldmann perimetry and pupillary evaluation. Two patients (10%) had normal visual fields. Three (15%) had minimal blind spot enlargement. Fifteen patients (75%) had a greatly enlarged blind spot, of which ten had concomitant nerve fiber bundle field defects. These consisted of a nasal step in two cases (10%), relative nerve fiber bundle defects in four cases (20%), and an absolute arcuate defect in four cases (20%). The blind spot enlargement relates to the pigmented tumor extended beyond the disc boundary, thereby shading the peripapillary retina. The nerve fiber bundle defects result from injury to the visual axons passing through the nerve head, although the mechanism is uncertain. A Marcus Gunn pupillary sign produced by the melanocytoma was found in six patients (30%), all of whom had a substantial relative or absolute nerve fiber bundle defect.", "PMID": 444141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6564", "title": "Retinal rivalry in functional amblyopia.", "content": "Thirteen patients with varying degrees of amblyopia were examined for perception of retinal rivalry with the use of the phase difference haploscope. Visual acuity was varied in the fixing eye by the addition of plus lenses, equalizing ocular dominance. Retinal rivalry could be detected over wide ranges of visual acuity disparity by amblyopic patients with visual acuity better than 20/50. Rivalry could not be detected, however, by patients with less than 20/50 visual acuity in their amblyopic eye.", "contents": "Retinal rivalry in functional amblyopia. Thirteen patients with varying degrees of amblyopia were examined for perception of retinal rivalry with the use of the phase difference haploscope. Visual acuity was varied in the fixing eye by the addition of plus lenses, equalizing ocular dominance. Retinal rivalry could be detected over wide ranges of visual acuity disparity by amblyopic patients with visual acuity better than 20/50. Rivalry could not be detected, however, by patients with less than 20/50 visual acuity in their amblyopic eye.", "PMID": 444142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6565", "title": "Intraocular cysticercosis.", "content": "Two intravitreal Taenia cysts were removed intact by pars plana vitrectomy from a 59-year-old woman who had never left the continental United States. The intraocular course of the cysts progressed from an initial chorioretinal location, accompanied by an intense focal inflammatory reaction, to free floating in the vitreous cavity within two months; thereafter, there was only a low-grade vitritis for an additional five months until removal. Light and electron microscopic studies suggested Cysticercus cellulosae as the infecting agent, although mature hooklets were absent. Local pork products were considered to be the source of the infection. Preretinal fibrosis and posterior subcapsular vacuoles were the final residua and did not progress after removal of the cysts. Although uncommon in the United States, cysticercosis should be considered in cases of focal necrotizing chorioretinitis.", "contents": "Intraocular cysticercosis. Two intravitreal Taenia cysts were removed intact by pars plana vitrectomy from a 59-year-old woman who had never left the continental United States. The intraocular course of the cysts progressed from an initial chorioretinal location, accompanied by an intense focal inflammatory reaction, to free floating in the vitreous cavity within two months; thereafter, there was only a low-grade vitritis for an additional five months until removal. Light and electron microscopic studies suggested Cysticercus cellulosae as the infecting agent, although mature hooklets were absent. Local pork products were considered to be the source of the infection. Preretinal fibrosis and posterior subcapsular vacuoles were the final residua and did not progress after removal of the cysts. Although uncommon in the United States, cysticercosis should be considered in cases of focal necrotizing chorioretinitis.", "PMID": 444143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6566", "title": "Benign hemangioendothelioma of the lacrimal gland fossa.", "content": "A mass was surgically removed from a patient who complained of a swelling in the lacrimal gland fossa. Histopathologic evaluation of the mass showed an unusual variant of the benign capillary hemangioma that exhibited abundant endothelial cell proliferation, and that could alternatively be classified as a benign hemangioendothelioma.", "contents": "Benign hemangioendothelioma of the lacrimal gland fossa. A mass was surgically removed from a patient who complained of a swelling in the lacrimal gland fossa. Histopathologic evaluation of the mass showed an unusual variant of the benign capillary hemangioma that exhibited abundant endothelial cell proliferation, and that could alternatively be classified as a benign hemangioendothelioma.", "PMID": 444144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6567", "title": "Corneal trauma from projection of metallic mercury into the eyes.", "content": "A 24-year-old woman sustained bilateral ocular lesions due to projection of mercury into the eyes during an explosion in a chemical laboratory. A lamellar keratectomy was performed on the right eye four hours after the accident, and 12 days later, the same procedure was performed of the left eye. Studies by light and electron microscopy were done on both specimens. The essential findings were total loss of epithelium, necrosis of keratocytes, absence of inflammatory reaction, and absence of superficial stromal repair in the specimen that was obtained 12 days after the accident. These findings indirectly confirm the importance of epithelium and normally vascularized conjunctiva in healing wounds of the cornea.", "contents": "Corneal trauma from projection of metallic mercury into the eyes. A 24-year-old woman sustained bilateral ocular lesions due to projection of mercury into the eyes during an explosion in a chemical laboratory. A lamellar keratectomy was performed on the right eye four hours after the accident, and 12 days later, the same procedure was performed of the left eye. Studies by light and electron microscopy were done on both specimens. The essential findings were total loss of epithelium, necrosis of keratocytes, absence of inflammatory reaction, and absence of superficial stromal repair in the specimen that was obtained 12 days after the accident. These findings indirectly confirm the importance of epithelium and normally vascularized conjunctiva in healing wounds of the cornea.", "PMID": 444145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6568", "title": "Neuromyopathic ptosis: a new surgical approach.", "content": "Neuromyopathic ptosis is a progressive disorder frequently associated with other ocular abnormalities. These include dry eyes, absent Bell's phenomenon, protractor weakness, and heterotropia. Thus, correction of this ptosis has not been well described and is avoided by many surgeons. Since ptosis usually occurs early in life, correction is of functional, economic, and cosmetic importance. Clinical and histologic findings suggest that degeneration and defects of the levator aponeurosis contribute to the ptosis. During the past two years, we have used the aponeurotic approach to correct neuromyopathic ptosis. We describe 19 eyelids with a minimum one-year follow-up. Most eyelids were purposely undercorrected. A mean lid elevation of 3.3 mm with good symmetric results was obtained. Procedures were performed under local anesthesia. Advantages of this technique are (1) patient cooperation for adjustment of lid height and contour at surgery; (2) preservation of other suspensory structures (M\u00fcller's muscle and Whitnall's ligament); (3) easy adjustment of lid height postoperatively; (4) preservation of all tear-producing structures; (5) avoidance of corneal irritation from posterior sutures; and (6) maintenance of anatomic planes, which simplifies reoperation, if necessary. We believe this conservative approach corrects most eyelids with neuromyopathic ptosis.", "contents": "Neuromyopathic ptosis: a new surgical approach. Neuromyopathic ptosis is a progressive disorder frequently associated with other ocular abnormalities. These include dry eyes, absent Bell's phenomenon, protractor weakness, and heterotropia. Thus, correction of this ptosis has not been well described and is avoided by many surgeons. Since ptosis usually occurs early in life, correction is of functional, economic, and cosmetic importance. Clinical and histologic findings suggest that degeneration and defects of the levator aponeurosis contribute to the ptosis. During the past two years, we have used the aponeurotic approach to correct neuromyopathic ptosis. We describe 19 eyelids with a minimum one-year follow-up. Most eyelids were purposely undercorrected. A mean lid elevation of 3.3 mm with good symmetric results was obtained. Procedures were performed under local anesthesia. Advantages of this technique are (1) patient cooperation for adjustment of lid height and contour at surgery; (2) preservation of other suspensory structures (M\u00fcller's muscle and Whitnall's ligament); (3) easy adjustment of lid height postoperatively; (4) preservation of all tear-producing structures; (5) avoidance of corneal irritation from posterior sutures; and (6) maintenance of anatomic planes, which simplifies reoperation, if necessary. We believe this conservative approach corrects most eyelids with neuromyopathic ptosis.", "PMID": 444146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6569", "title": "Ultrastructural comparison of capillary and cavernous hemangiomas of the orbit.", "content": "Capillary and cavernous hemangiomas are often grouped together as if they were modulations of the same entity. To clarify this nosologic question, three capillary hemangiomas in children and four cavernous hemangiomas in adults were studied by transmission electron microscopy. The capillary hemangiomas consisted of two variably admixed zones, solid cellular zones and zones with open vascular lumens. However, both zones had similar organization. Each vascular unit was composed of endothelial cells and pericytes, which persisted in a tumor three years after its clinical appearance. Macrophages and degenerating cells were found in the interstitium and may be related to the clinical feature of partial spontaneous regression. The cavernous hemangiomas had much larger lumens, and wider and more heavily collagenized trabeculae. The vascular walls were created by multilaminar smooth muscle cells. Therefore, capillary hemangioma is completely different from cavernous hemangioma, which resembles a venous tumor.", "contents": "Ultrastructural comparison of capillary and cavernous hemangiomas of the orbit. Capillary and cavernous hemangiomas are often grouped together as if they were modulations of the same entity. To clarify this nosologic question, three capillary hemangiomas in children and four cavernous hemangiomas in adults were studied by transmission electron microscopy. The capillary hemangiomas consisted of two variably admixed zones, solid cellular zones and zones with open vascular lumens. However, both zones had similar organization. Each vascular unit was composed of endothelial cells and pericytes, which persisted in a tumor three years after its clinical appearance. Macrophages and degenerating cells were found in the interstitium and may be related to the clinical feature of partial spontaneous regression. The cavernous hemangiomas had much larger lumens, and wider and more heavily collagenized trabeculae. The vascular walls were created by multilaminar smooth muscle cells. Therefore, capillary hemangioma is completely different from cavernous hemangioma, which resembles a venous tumor.", "PMID": 444147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6570", "title": "The human limbus. A scanning electron microscopic study.", "content": "Fourteen human limbal biopsy specimens were obtained from seven normal subjects. The epithelial surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Epithelial cell surfaces varied greatly in shape and size, and mosaics of three- to six-sided irregular polygons were formed. Microvillar borders of cells were distinct. Cell sizes ranged from 3 to 20 micron across. Light and dark cells were present and randomly distributed. A few cells were covered with microplicae; the remainder of the cells were covered with microvilli. Intercellular crypt openings measuring 1 to 10 micron in diameter were distributed randomly over all specimens. These openings were believed to be related to goblet cells. Many openings were plugged with what appeared to be mucus. Many surface-level intercellular structures were present; they corresponded in diameter to the surface openings. The human limbal epithelium varies from both the upper tarsal conjunctiva and the cornea.", "contents": "The human limbus. A scanning electron microscopic study. Fourteen human limbal biopsy specimens were obtained from seven normal subjects. The epithelial surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Epithelial cell surfaces varied greatly in shape and size, and mosaics of three- to six-sided irregular polygons were formed. Microvillar borders of cells were distinct. Cell sizes ranged from 3 to 20 micron across. Light and dark cells were present and randomly distributed. A few cells were covered with microplicae; the remainder of the cells were covered with microvilli. Intercellular crypt openings measuring 1 to 10 micron in diameter were distributed randomly over all specimens. These openings were believed to be related to goblet cells. Many openings were plugged with what appeared to be mucus. Many surface-level intercellular structures were present; they corresponded in diameter to the surface openings. The human limbal epithelium varies from both the upper tarsal conjunctiva and the cornea.", "PMID": 444148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6571", "title": "Fine structure of the tissue lining the cochlear perilymphatic space against the bony labyrinthine capsule.", "content": "The perilymphatic tissue covering the bony labyrinthine capsule was studied in chinchillas by help of the thin-section and the freeze-fracture methods. Among the extremely flat and extended cells there were demonstrated fasciae occludentes and maculae communicantes. It is supposed that the perilymphatic tissue is arachnoidal tissue, too.", "contents": "Fine structure of the tissue lining the cochlear perilymphatic space against the bony labyrinthine capsule. The perilymphatic tissue covering the bony labyrinthine capsule was studied in chinchillas by help of the thin-section and the freeze-fracture methods. Among the extremely flat and extended cells there were demonstrated fasciae occludentes and maculae communicantes. It is supposed that the perilymphatic tissue is arachnoidal tissue, too.", "PMID": 444149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6572", "title": "Noise-noise effect upon the spreading of the posttraumatic progressive necrosis in the organ of Corti.", "content": "Progressive necrosis of the organ of Corti caused by a disturbance of the ionic composition of the Cortilymph resulting from the infiltration of endolymph into the organi of Corti after traumatization of its barrier against the scala media, is greatly intensified by posttraumatic stimulation with noise of physiological intensities. This effect is attributed to oscillation of the cochlear partition, with resultant greater blending of the Cortilymph and the endolymph. Stimulation augments necrosis fourfold towards the base of the cochlea and twofold towards the helicotrema. Posttraumatic stimulation is one of the factors which markedly potentiate the regressive effect of acoustic trauma.", "contents": "Noise-noise effect upon the spreading of the posttraumatic progressive necrosis in the organ of Corti. Progressive necrosis of the organ of Corti caused by a disturbance of the ionic composition of the Cortilymph resulting from the infiltration of endolymph into the organi of Corti after traumatization of its barrier against the scala media, is greatly intensified by posttraumatic stimulation with noise of physiological intensities. This effect is attributed to oscillation of the cochlear partition, with resultant greater blending of the Cortilymph and the endolymph. Stimulation augments necrosis fourfold towards the base of the cochlea and twofold towards the helicotrema. Posttraumatic stimulation is one of the factors which markedly potentiate the regressive effect of acoustic trauma.", "PMID": 444150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6573", "title": "[Comparative studies of the endolymphatic sac and duct in embryonic skull (author's transl)].", "content": "The endolymphatic sac and duct were studied in 25 embryonic ears of humans between the 10th and 25th week of development. In the early stage the anlage develops as a protrusion medio-caudally from the utricle. During further development vacuoles appear within the connective tissue surrounding the duct and sac which eventually unite with the endolymphatic system enlarging the endolymphatic space as an answer of the connective tissue to the expansion and proliferation of the endothelium. In older specimens (fronto-occipital diameter: 40 mm) we find a tongue-like projection of the wall of the duct into the utricle known as the endolymphatic valve. This structure is covered with a thickened folded epithelium. It is stabilized by fibrous, cartilaginous, and bony tissue. Under normal conditions it therefore seems improbable that it can serve as a valve as supposed by other authors. The proliferation of endothelium and a concentration of blood vessels in this might indicate a higher metabolic activity with a biochemical filtering mechanism.", "contents": "[Comparative studies of the endolymphatic sac and duct in embryonic skull (author's transl)]. The endolymphatic sac and duct were studied in 25 embryonic ears of humans between the 10th and 25th week of development. In the early stage the anlage develops as a protrusion medio-caudally from the utricle. During further development vacuoles appear within the connective tissue surrounding the duct and sac which eventually unite with the endolymphatic system enlarging the endolymphatic space as an answer of the connective tissue to the expansion and proliferation of the endothelium. In older specimens (fronto-occipital diameter: 40 mm) we find a tongue-like projection of the wall of the duct into the utricle known as the endolymphatic valve. This structure is covered with a thickened folded epithelium. It is stabilized by fibrous, cartilaginous, and bony tissue. Under normal conditions it therefore seems improbable that it can serve as a valve as supposed by other authors. The proliferation of endothelium and a concentration of blood vessels in this might indicate a higher metabolic activity with a biochemical filtering mechanism.", "PMID": 444151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6574", "title": "Loss of stereocilia in the human organ of Corti.", "content": "The process of disappearance of the stereocilia at the top of the outer hair cell was described by observing aged human cochlea under scanning electron microscope. After loss of hair, remnants of hair could be recognized at the top of outer hair cells. As the process continued, the remnants of the stereocilia increase in percentage, while the remaining abnormal hair decrease. As remnants gradually disappear, the W-configuration faded away. At the same time, the diameter of the hair cell top decreased by shrinking. Before the supporting cells made a complete cover, there may be a depression in the reticular lamina due to shrinking of the top of the hair cell. However, if the depression persists, there is the potential danger of reticular lamina rupture. Existence of a breaking point in the stereocilia of the outer hair cell was proposed.", "contents": "Loss of stereocilia in the human organ of Corti. The process of disappearance of the stereocilia at the top of the outer hair cell was described by observing aged human cochlea under scanning electron microscope. After loss of hair, remnants of hair could be recognized at the top of outer hair cells. As the process continued, the remnants of the stereocilia increase in percentage, while the remaining abnormal hair decrease. As remnants gradually disappear, the W-configuration faded away. At the same time, the diameter of the hair cell top decreased by shrinking. Before the supporting cells made a complete cover, there may be a depression in the reticular lamina due to shrinking of the top of the hair cell. However, if the depression persists, there is the potential danger of reticular lamina rupture. Existence of a breaking point in the stereocilia of the outer hair cell was proposed.", "PMID": 444152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6575", "title": "The fate of hemidesmosomes in laryngeal carcinoma.", "content": "The ultrastructural morphology of the hemidesmosomes in malignant epithelial cells of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the human larynx was studied by electron microscopy. In the more advanced carcinomas the hemidesmosomes are reduced in number or absent over extensive areas of the epithelial stromal junction. In some places the hemidesmosomes are observed to be in the process of being dislodged from their normal sites at the plasma membrane of the basal carcinoma cell. After dislodgment from the basal plasmalemma into the subepithelial connective tissue the hemidesmosomes are seen to round off with the cytoplasmic attachment plaques lying on their inner circumference. A constant feature of the detached hemidesmosomes is the absence of inserting tonofilaments. Frequently, the detached hemidesmosomes are found to be in close association with detached multilayered basement membrane material in the stroma. The detached hemidesmosome-structures appear to migrate down into the deeper layers of the connective tissue space apparently loosing their distinct ultrastructure. These observations indicate that the detachment of hemidesmosomes and their subsequent downward dermal migration may result in a loss of epithelial-stromal adherence in invasive epithelial cancer of the larynx.", "contents": "The fate of hemidesmosomes in laryngeal carcinoma. The ultrastructural morphology of the hemidesmosomes in malignant epithelial cells of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the human larynx was studied by electron microscopy. In the more advanced carcinomas the hemidesmosomes are reduced in number or absent over extensive areas of the epithelial stromal junction. In some places the hemidesmosomes are observed to be in the process of being dislodged from their normal sites at the plasma membrane of the basal carcinoma cell. After dislodgment from the basal plasmalemma into the subepithelial connective tissue the hemidesmosomes are seen to round off with the cytoplasmic attachment plaques lying on their inner circumference. A constant feature of the detached hemidesmosomes is the absence of inserting tonofilaments. Frequently, the detached hemidesmosomes are found to be in close association with detached multilayered basement membrane material in the stroma. The detached hemidesmosome-structures appear to migrate down into the deeper layers of the connective tissue space apparently loosing their distinct ultrastructure. These observations indicate that the detachment of hemidesmosomes and their subsequent downward dermal migration may result in a loss of epithelial-stromal adherence in invasive epithelial cancer of the larynx.", "PMID": 444153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6576", "title": "The origin of the waveform of cochlear whole action potential.", "content": "An explanation is given why the recorded action potentials of the cochlea manifest themselves in the complex N1N2-form. The separate AP of the nerve fibers are not diphasic but triphasic in form. With algebraic addition of the, in different phase, AP present in the auditory nerve the N1N2 complex originates. This is illustrated by the observed form changes in the recorded signals during the cutting experiments of the auditory nerve.", "contents": "The origin of the waveform of cochlear whole action potential. An explanation is given why the recorded action potentials of the cochlea manifest themselves in the complex N1N2-form. The separate AP of the nerve fibers are not diphasic but triphasic in form. With algebraic addition of the, in different phase, AP present in the auditory nerve the N1N2 complex originates. This is illustrated by the observed form changes in the recorded signals during the cutting experiments of the auditory nerve.", "PMID": 444154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6577", "title": "Intramodal and interaural interactions of the human slow auditory evoked potential.", "content": "It is proved that the human slow auditory evoked potential (SAEP) possess intramodal (frequency) and interaural specific properties. It is shown that tonotopic and bilateral organization of the SAEP generating system is better expressed at lower stimulus intensities. It is concluded that neuron populations of the SAEP generating system which perceive less different tone stimuli overlap each other greater than those which perceive more different stimuli. The data on intramodal and interaural specificity of SAEP are discussed from the point of view of its extralemniscal origin.", "contents": "Intramodal and interaural interactions of the human slow auditory evoked potential. It is proved that the human slow auditory evoked potential (SAEP) possess intramodal (frequency) and interaural specific properties. It is shown that tonotopic and bilateral organization of the SAEP generating system is better expressed at lower stimulus intensities. It is concluded that neuron populations of the SAEP generating system which perceive less different tone stimuli overlap each other greater than those which perceive more different stimuli. The data on intramodal and interaural specificity of SAEP are discussed from the point of view of its extralemniscal origin.", "PMID": 444155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6578", "title": "Immunoglobulin levels of tonsillar cells.", "content": "Immunoglobulin G, A and M contents of homogenized tonsillar lymphocytes were measured. Higher Ig values were found in adults than in children. Inflammatory processes increased the immunoglobulin levels of tonsillar lymphocytes. The changes in tonsillar IgG and IgA levels suggest the importance of local immunoglobulin production in the defence mechanism of tonsils. Two isolated IgA deficiencies were detected among the 85 patients.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin levels of tonsillar cells. Immunoglobulin G, A and M contents of homogenized tonsillar lymphocytes were measured. Higher Ig values were found in adults than in children. Inflammatory processes increased the immunoglobulin levels of tonsillar lymphocytes. The changes in tonsillar IgG and IgA levels suggest the importance of local immunoglobulin production in the defence mechanism of tonsils. Two isolated IgA deficiencies were detected among the 85 patients.", "PMID": 444156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6579", "title": "Tinnitus caused by bilateral shunts from the occipital arteries to the intracranial veins. A case report.", "content": "A patient with objective tinnitus and a pulse synchronous murmur over both left and right sides of the mastoid regions is described. Microphones placed over the mastoid regions recording \"phonomastoidograms\" clearly demonstrated the pulse synchronous tinnitus. Arteriovenous shunts from the occipital arteries to the sigmoid sinus were later demonstrated with angiograms. After bilateral surgical removal of the arteriovenous shunts the incapacitating tinnitus disappeared. The importance of thorough examination of pulse synchronous tinnitus is discussed.", "contents": "Tinnitus caused by bilateral shunts from the occipital arteries to the intracranial veins. A case report. A patient with objective tinnitus and a pulse synchronous murmur over both left and right sides of the mastoid regions is described. Microphones placed over the mastoid regions recording \"phonomastoidograms\" clearly demonstrated the pulse synchronous tinnitus. Arteriovenous shunts from the occipital arteries to the sigmoid sinus were later demonstrated with angiograms. After bilateral surgical removal of the arteriovenous shunts the incapacitating tinnitus disappeared. The importance of thorough examination of pulse synchronous tinnitus is discussed.", "PMID": 444157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6580", "title": "An investigation of the auditory frequency-following responses as compared to cochlear potentials.", "content": "Comparisons were made of cochlear microphonics (CM) and scalp recorded frequency-following responses (FFR) from chinchilla and human. The latency of the scalp/ear-lobe recorded FFR was found to be nearly zero with respect to CM. Further, auditory nerve action potential were noted to diminish rapidly after death whereas the CM component in FFR reduced gradually. The decay of the CM component of FFR measured at the scalp after death followed an identical time course to that of the CM at round window. These observation lead to the conclusion that FFR does not originate in the brain stem but is essentially cochlear potentials picked up by electrodes located at the scalp.", "contents": "An investigation of the auditory frequency-following responses as compared to cochlear potentials. Comparisons were made of cochlear microphonics (CM) and scalp recorded frequency-following responses (FFR) from chinchilla and human. The latency of the scalp/ear-lobe recorded FFR was found to be nearly zero with respect to CM. Further, auditory nerve action potential were noted to diminish rapidly after death whereas the CM component in FFR reduced gradually. The decay of the CM component of FFR measured at the scalp after death followed an identical time course to that of the CM at round window. These observation lead to the conclusion that FFR does not originate in the brain stem but is essentially cochlear potentials picked up by electrodes located at the scalp.", "PMID": 444158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6581", "title": "Changes of blood metabolites in horses after racing, with particular reference to uric acid.", "content": "Changes in concentration of a number of blood metabolites in 30 thoroughbred horses were recorded after an 1110 metre race. No significant changes occurred in blood urea or aspartate aminotransferase during the three hours after racing. Plasma sodium, potassium and calcium levels were increased immediately after racing but had returned to normal one hour after racing. Plasma phosphate showed a significant fall in concentration one hour after racing. Creatinine and lactic acid concentrations were elevated ten minutes after racing and although they subsequently decreased, the level of lactic acid was still significant one hour later. Uric acid levels were well above resting levels at ten minutes after racing but rose even more in the subsequent hour. Urinary uric acid levels were also elevated during this time. Three hours after racing some horses still had elevated plasma uric acid levels and all of them showed a significant rise in creatine phosphokinase. The possible physiological basis of these findings is discussed.", "contents": "Changes of blood metabolites in horses after racing, with particular reference to uric acid. Changes in concentration of a number of blood metabolites in 30 thoroughbred horses were recorded after an 1110 metre race. No significant changes occurred in blood urea or aspartate aminotransferase during the three hours after racing. Plasma sodium, potassium and calcium levels were increased immediately after racing but had returned to normal one hour after racing. Plasma phosphate showed a significant fall in concentration one hour after racing. Creatinine and lactic acid concentrations were elevated ten minutes after racing and although they subsequently decreased, the level of lactic acid was still significant one hour later. Uric acid levels were well above resting levels at ten minutes after racing but rose even more in the subsequent hour. Urinary uric acid levels were also elevated during this time. Three hours after racing some horses still had elevated plasma uric acid levels and all of them showed a significant rise in creatine phosphokinase. The possible physiological basis of these findings is discussed.", "PMID": 444160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6582", "title": "The longevity of Fasciola hepatica metacercariae encysted on herbage.", "content": "An experiment was described in which guinea pigs were used as tracer animals in an attempt to assess the longevity of Fasciola hepatic metacercariae on pasture at Werribee, Victoria. The metacercariae had been encysted on both an irrigated and non-irrigated area at various times during 1976. It was determined that, under the conditions of the experiment, metacercariae can survive and remain viable for up to 10 weeks during the winter. It was also determined that longevity during the summer was greatly reduced, and was of the order of only 1 week. The significance of these findings, with respect to the epidemiology of the disease, was discussed.", "contents": "The longevity of Fasciola hepatica metacercariae encysted on herbage. An experiment was described in which guinea pigs were used as tracer animals in an attempt to assess the longevity of Fasciola hepatic metacercariae on pasture at Werribee, Victoria. The metacercariae had been encysted on both an irrigated and non-irrigated area at various times during 1976. It was determined that, under the conditions of the experiment, metacercariae can survive and remain viable for up to 10 weeks during the winter. It was also determined that longevity during the summer was greatly reduced, and was of the order of only 1 week. The significance of these findings, with respect to the epidemiology of the disease, was discussed.", "PMID": 444161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6583", "title": "The effect of prior infection with Fasciola hepatica on the resistance of sheep to the same parasite.", "content": "The development of flukes that resulted from a challenge dose of 175 F. hepatica metacercariae was compared in 4 groups of sheep that were maintained under grazing conditions on fluke-free pasture. One group had been previously uninfected and all subgroups of each of the other 3 groups had been exposed to one of a range of previous doses of metacercariae. The preliminary infections of 2 of the 3 groups had been terminated respectively after 7 and 14 weeks. The third previously infected group had received its preliminary infection as 2 doses of metacercariae, 7 weeks apart. The latter infection had been terminated after 14 weeks. No appreciable differences in the mean numbers, length, prepatent period or fecundity of flukes, established as a result of the challenge dose of metacercariae, were detected between the control group and the 3 previously infected groups. It was concluded that under the conditions of the present experiment no evidence was detected that would suggest that previous infection with F. hepatica conferred any significant resistance to a future challenge.", "contents": "The effect of prior infection with Fasciola hepatica on the resistance of sheep to the same parasite. The development of flukes that resulted from a challenge dose of 175 F. hepatica metacercariae was compared in 4 groups of sheep that were maintained under grazing conditions on fluke-free pasture. One group had been previously uninfected and all subgroups of each of the other 3 groups had been exposed to one of a range of previous doses of metacercariae. The preliminary infections of 2 of the 3 groups had been terminated respectively after 7 and 14 weeks. The third previously infected group had received its preliminary infection as 2 doses of metacercariae, 7 weeks apart. The latter infection had been terminated after 14 weeks. No appreciable differences in the mean numbers, length, prepatent period or fecundity of flukes, established as a result of the challenge dose of metacercariae, were detected between the control group and the 3 previously infected groups. It was concluded that under the conditions of the present experiment no evidence was detected that would suggest that previous infection with F. hepatica conferred any significant resistance to a future challenge.", "PMID": 444162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6584", "title": "Effectiveness of anthelmintic treatments against levamisole-resistant Ostertagia.", "content": "Adult worms from a population of Ostertagia consisting of 88% O. circumcincta and 12% O. trifurcata were found to survive a double drench (14 mg/kg) of levamisole. An anthelmintic assay on this population found that against levamisole the LD50 was 11.95 mg/kg and the LD99 was 67.75 mg/kg. Three benzimidazoles were also tested against this population and the LD50 and LD99 were respectively thiabendazole 11.8 and 144.9 mg/kg, oxfendazole 0.17 and 6.10 mg/kg and albendazole 0.08 and 2.55 mg/kg. The percentage of worms killed by the recommended dose rate was levamisole 24%; thiabendazole 91%; oxfendazole 99% and albendazole 99%.", "contents": "Effectiveness of anthelmintic treatments against levamisole-resistant Ostertagia. Adult worms from a population of Ostertagia consisting of 88% O. circumcincta and 12% O. trifurcata were found to survive a double drench (14 mg/kg) of levamisole. An anthelmintic assay on this population found that against levamisole the LD50 was 11.95 mg/kg and the LD99 was 67.75 mg/kg. Three benzimidazoles were also tested against this population and the LD50 and LD99 were respectively thiabendazole 11.8 and 144.9 mg/kg, oxfendazole 0.17 and 6.10 mg/kg and albendazole 0.08 and 2.55 mg/kg. The percentage of worms killed by the recommended dose rate was levamisole 24%; thiabendazole 91%; oxfendazole 99% and albendazole 99%.", "PMID": 444163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6585", "title": "Chemotherapy of acute bovine anaplasmosis.", "content": "The efficacy of a standard tetracycline, imidocarb and a new experimental long-acting tetracycline (T-200) in the treatment of anaplasmosis was examined in 5 groups of 9 nonsplenectomised, adult, 4-year-old, speyed cattle. The efficacy of T-200 was further examined using 9 splenectomised calves. One treatment of imidocarb (3.5 mg/kg) or T-200 (20 mg/kg) or 2 treatments (10 mg/kg) of a standard tetracycline were very effective in controlling the infection in the intact cattle. On inoculation of T-200 (20 mg/kg) controlled infection in 5 splenectomized calves, whereas all 4 untreated control calves died. T-200 did not sterilise either intact or splenectomised cattle.", "contents": "Chemotherapy of acute bovine anaplasmosis. The efficacy of a standard tetracycline, imidocarb and a new experimental long-acting tetracycline (T-200) in the treatment of anaplasmosis was examined in 5 groups of 9 nonsplenectomised, adult, 4-year-old, speyed cattle. The efficacy of T-200 was further examined using 9 splenectomised calves. One treatment of imidocarb (3.5 mg/kg) or T-200 (20 mg/kg) or 2 treatments (10 mg/kg) of a standard tetracycline were very effective in controlling the infection in the intact cattle. On inoculation of T-200 (20 mg/kg) controlled infection in 5 splenectomized calves, whereas all 4 untreated control calves died. T-200 did not sterilise either intact or splenectomised cattle.", "PMID": 444164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6586", "title": "Serological classification of Australian strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae isolated from pigs, sheep, turkeys and man.", "content": "154 strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae from pigs, sheep, turkeys and man were serotyped by using the double diffusion gel precipitation test. Ten of the 18 serotypes were detected in 151 of the strains. Three strains failed to react with any of the type specific antisera. It was found that serotype 1a shared an antigen(s) with serotype 1b, and that serotype 6 shared an antigen(s) with serotype 14. Serotype 2a and 2b were difficult to distinguish. Since serotypes 1 and 2 were isolated from cases of septicaemia in pigs, and since serotypes 1, 2, 4 and 7 were isolated from cases of arthritis, it was suggested that factors other than serotype were important in causing the various forms of swine erysipelas. The fact that the distribution of serotypes 1a, 1b and 2b between septicaemic and arthritic pigs was similar supported the conclusion that arthritis was consequent to bacteraemia. Serotypes 1a, 1b, 2b, 5, 12 and 15 were isolated from cases of arthritis in sheep, and serotypes 1a and 5 from cases of erysipelas in turkeys. Serotype 2b was isolated from a human specimen.", "contents": "Serological classification of Australian strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae isolated from pigs, sheep, turkeys and man. 154 strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae from pigs, sheep, turkeys and man were serotyped by using the double diffusion gel precipitation test. Ten of the 18 serotypes were detected in 151 of the strains. Three strains failed to react with any of the type specific antisera. It was found that serotype 1a shared an antigen(s) with serotype 1b, and that serotype 6 shared an antigen(s) with serotype 14. Serotype 2a and 2b were difficult to distinguish. Since serotypes 1 and 2 were isolated from cases of septicaemia in pigs, and since serotypes 1, 2, 4 and 7 were isolated from cases of arthritis, it was suggested that factors other than serotype were important in causing the various forms of swine erysipelas. The fact that the distribution of serotypes 1a, 1b and 2b between septicaemic and arthritic pigs was similar supported the conclusion that arthritis was consequent to bacteraemia. Serotypes 1a, 1b, 2b, 5, 12 and 15 were isolated from cases of arthritis in sheep, and serotypes 1a and 5 from cases of erysipelas in turkeys. Serotype 2b was isolated from a human specimen.", "PMID": 444165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6587", "title": "Snake bite in dogs.", "content": "In 7 years snake bite was diagnosed in 80 dogs. Sporting breeds figured prominently. The average was 3.6 years. The commonest presenting signs were salivation, vomiting, dilated pupils, absence of the pupillary light reflex, depression and generalised muscle weakness, hindlimb ataxia and respiratory distress. Sixty-seven cases (84%) occurred in 6 warmer months on the year. Fifty-one dogs (64%) were seen either to be bitten or in contact with a snake. Tiger and Brown snakes were implicated on 32 and 3 occasions respectively. An overall recovery rate of 87% was obtained for patients receiving antivenene, fluid and support therapy. The period from treatment-to-full recovery was shorter for cases in which the bite-to-treatment period was one hour or less (24 hours) when compared with the recovery time for all cases (36 hours). The prognosis was poor for dogs presenting with the triad of complete flaccid paralysis, dyspnoea and a sub-normal temperature.", "contents": "Snake bite in dogs. In 7 years snake bite was diagnosed in 80 dogs. Sporting breeds figured prominently. The average was 3.6 years. The commonest presenting signs were salivation, vomiting, dilated pupils, absence of the pupillary light reflex, depression and generalised muscle weakness, hindlimb ataxia and respiratory distress. Sixty-seven cases (84%) occurred in 6 warmer months on the year. Fifty-one dogs (64%) were seen either to be bitten or in contact with a snake. Tiger and Brown snakes were implicated on 32 and 3 occasions respectively. An overall recovery rate of 87% was obtained for patients receiving antivenene, fluid and support therapy. The period from treatment-to-full recovery was shorter for cases in which the bite-to-treatment period was one hour or less (24 hours) when compared with the recovery time for all cases (36 hours). The prognosis was poor for dogs presenting with the triad of complete flaccid paralysis, dyspnoea and a sub-normal temperature.", "PMID": 444166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6588", "title": "Helicopter passenger survival suit standards in the UK offshore oil industry.", "content": "Special protective clothing for helicopter passengers in transit to and from installations in the U.K. offshore oil industry is considered essential. Such clothing is required to increase the survival chances in the unlikely event of a helicopter ditching. This paper discusses the nature of the threat to life in such an event and proposes standards for the specific protective clothing required to meet it. Test criteria are also outlined, to ensure that standards set are maintained.", "contents": "Helicopter passenger survival suit standards in the UK offshore oil industry. Special protective clothing for helicopter passengers in transit to and from installations in the U.K. offshore oil industry is considered essential. Such clothing is required to increase the survival chances in the unlikely event of a helicopter ditching. This paper discusses the nature of the threat to life in such an event and proposes standards for the specific protective clothing required to meet it. Test criteria are also outlined, to ensure that standards set are maintained.", "PMID": 444170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6589", "title": "Effect of water and electrolyte replacement during exercise in the heat on biochemical indices of stress and performance.", "content": "Eight healthy young men exercised on alternate days in a warm, humid environment (32 degrees C, 65% RH) at 50% VO2 max for 2 h while receiving a water supplement (WS), glucose-electrolyte solution (ES), or no fluid supplement (NS). The average weight loss after 2 h of exercise and NS was 2.44 kg with a resultant plasma volume decrease of 17%. This acute period of exercise with no fluid replacement elicited significant increments in serum levels of cortisol, dopamine-B-hydroxylase and uric acid. Alternatively, exercise in the heat for the same duration with water or electrolyte supplement failed to effect significant alterations in any of these physical or biochemical factors compared to preexercise levels. Heart rates under the influence of heat stress and exercise with NS averaged 18% higher at each time period studied compared with WS or ES.", "contents": "Effect of water and electrolyte replacement during exercise in the heat on biochemical indices of stress and performance. Eight healthy young men exercised on alternate days in a warm, humid environment (32 degrees C, 65% RH) at 50% VO2 max for 2 h while receiving a water supplement (WS), glucose-electrolyte solution (ES), or no fluid supplement (NS). The average weight loss after 2 h of exercise and NS was 2.44 kg with a resultant plasma volume decrease of 17%. This acute period of exercise with no fluid replacement elicited significant increments in serum levels of cortisol, dopamine-B-hydroxylase and uric acid. Alternatively, exercise in the heat for the same duration with water or electrolyte supplement failed to effect significant alterations in any of these physical or biochemical factors compared to preexercise levels. Heart rates under the influence of heat stress and exercise with NS averaged 18% higher at each time period studied compared with WS or ES.", "PMID": 444171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6590", "title": "Tolerance of domestic fowl to high sustained +Gz.", "content": "A system is described for the acceleration treatment of domestic fowl. A reasonable endpoint for acceleration tolerance is provided by a bradycardia which occurs fairly close to the lethal limit. In a group of 61 male Rhode Island Red chickens exposed to 6 Gz, the mean tolerance (+/- S.D.) was 11.1 +/- 10.6 min. Among individuals, the acceleration tolerance is inversely related to both body size and age, and positively to pre-treatment heart rate.", "contents": "Tolerance of domestic fowl to high sustained +Gz. A system is described for the acceleration treatment of domestic fowl. A reasonable endpoint for acceleration tolerance is provided by a bradycardia which occurs fairly close to the lethal limit. In a group of 61 male Rhode Island Red chickens exposed to 6 Gz, the mean tolerance (+/- S.D.) was 11.1 +/- 10.6 min. Among individuals, the acceleration tolerance is inversely related to both body size and age, and positively to pre-treatment heart rate.", "PMID": 444172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6591", "title": "SPH-4 helmet damage and head injury correlation.", "content": "Human tolerance to head impact was assessed by correlating the force levels required to duplicate damage seen in 14 SPH-4 aviator helmets retrieved from U.S. Army helicopter crashes with resulting head injury. Head injury occurred at peak acceleration levels far below 400 G, which is the value currently used by the U.S. Army as the pass-fail criterion in evaluating the impact attenuation performance of prospective aircrew helmets. Concussive head injuries occurred below Severity Index values of 1500 and below Head Injury Criterion values of 1000. These are considered concussive threshold values by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment and by the Department of Transportation, respectively. Because peak transmitted force was the best estimator of the Abbreviated Injury Scale values assigned to the 14 cases, it may be a more effective criterion to use in the evaluation of helmet impact attenuation performance than is peak G, Severity Index, or Head Injury Criterion.", "contents": "SPH-4 helmet damage and head injury correlation. Human tolerance to head impact was assessed by correlating the force levels required to duplicate damage seen in 14 SPH-4 aviator helmets retrieved from U.S. Army helicopter crashes with resulting head injury. Head injury occurred at peak acceleration levels far below 400 G, which is the value currently used by the U.S. Army as the pass-fail criterion in evaluating the impact attenuation performance of prospective aircrew helmets. Concussive head injuries occurred below Severity Index values of 1500 and below Head Injury Criterion values of 1000. These are considered concussive threshold values by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment and by the Department of Transportation, respectively. Because peak transmitted force was the best estimator of the Abbreviated Injury Scale values assigned to the 14 cases, it may be a more effective criterion to use in the evaluation of helmet impact attenuation performance than is peak G, Severity Index, or Head Injury Criterion.", "PMID": 444173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6592", "title": "Central and cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism of the healthy man during head-down tilting.", "content": "Experiments on six healthy test volunteers, who underwent simultaneous catheterization of different cardiovascular compartments, were carried out to study the effect of head-down tilting at an angle of -20 degrees on the central and cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism. By the third hour of exposure, the test subjects showed a decrease in the systolic arterial pressure and increases in the systolic pressure of the right ventricle, heart rate, cardiac output, and oxygen intake. They also displayed a trend for an increase in the content of adenosine triphosphate, a decrease in the content of pyruvic acid, and essentially no changes in the concentration of lactic acid and activity of lactate dehydrogenase in the arterial blood and in the blood flowing out from the brain. The oxygen arteriovenous difference for the systemic and cerebral circulation decreased by 24% and 13%, respectively. The above circulatory and metabolic changes seem to reflect processes of adaptation of the human body to functioning under conditions of cephalad fluid shifts.", "contents": "Central and cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism of the healthy man during head-down tilting. Experiments on six healthy test volunteers, who underwent simultaneous catheterization of different cardiovascular compartments, were carried out to study the effect of head-down tilting at an angle of -20 degrees on the central and cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism. By the third hour of exposure, the test subjects showed a decrease in the systolic arterial pressure and increases in the systolic pressure of the right ventricle, heart rate, cardiac output, and oxygen intake. They also displayed a trend for an increase in the content of adenosine triphosphate, a decrease in the content of pyruvic acid, and essentially no changes in the concentration of lactic acid and activity of lactate dehydrogenase in the arterial blood and in the blood flowing out from the brain. The oxygen arteriovenous difference for the systemic and cerebral circulation decreased by 24% and 13%, respectively. The above circulatory and metabolic changes seem to reflect processes of adaptation of the human body to functioning under conditions of cephalad fluid shifts.", "PMID": 444174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6593", "title": "Time for loss of increased cardiac responsiveness to isoproterenol in cold-acclimated rats after removal from cold.", "content": "Female rats exposed to air at 5 +/- 1 degree C for 12 weeks had a greater increase in heart rate in response to s.c. administration of d,l-isoproterenol (8 microgram/kg body weight) than warm-acclimated controls when both were tested in air at 25 +/- 1 degree C. After removal from cold for 24, 48, or 72 h, cold-acclimated rats still showed a greater responsiveness of heart rate to s.c. administration of isoproterenol (8 microgram/kg body weight) when compared with warm-acclimated controls. However, by 96 h after removal from cold, the responsiveness of heart rate to isoproterenol in the cold-treated group no longer differed from that of the warm-acclimated group. Hence, the increased beta-adrenergic responsiveness of heart rate in cold-acclimated rats was lost at some time between 72 and 96 h after removal from cold.", "contents": "Time for loss of increased cardiac responsiveness to isoproterenol in cold-acclimated rats after removal from cold. Female rats exposed to air at 5 +/- 1 degree C for 12 weeks had a greater increase in heart rate in response to s.c. administration of d,l-isoproterenol (8 microgram/kg body weight) than warm-acclimated controls when both were tested in air at 25 +/- 1 degree C. After removal from cold for 24, 48, or 72 h, cold-acclimated rats still showed a greater responsiveness of heart rate to s.c. administration of isoproterenol (8 microgram/kg body weight) when compared with warm-acclimated controls. However, by 96 h after removal from cold, the responsiveness of heart rate to isoproterenol in the cold-treated group no longer differed from that of the warm-acclimated group. Hence, the increased beta-adrenergic responsiveness of heart rate in cold-acclimated rats was lost at some time between 72 and 96 h after removal from cold.", "PMID": 444175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6594", "title": "Caloric and exercise requirements of space flight: biostereometric results from skylab.", "content": "The biostereometric study of the Skylab astronauts used stereophotogrammetry to make accurate three-dimensional measurement of body form, from which regional and total body volumes were derived. Volume changes in the thighs and calves, over the course of the flight, showed a high correlation with inflight exercise on the bicycle ergometer, and suggested that an exercise level of 80-100 W-min/d/kg lean body mass would be necessary to prevent inflight muscle atrophy. The bicycle ergometer is thus a relatively inefficient means of preventing leg muscle atrophy. Inflight caloric intake showed a high correlation with the change in volume of the buttocks, the abdomen, and the body as a whole, and suggested that a caloric intake of 47-51 kcal/d/kg lean body mass would be necessary to prevent a change in body fat. Only one of the astronauts exceeded this range and gained body fat; the group as a whole showed a mean fat loss of 1.2 kg.", "contents": "Caloric and exercise requirements of space flight: biostereometric results from skylab. The biostereometric study of the Skylab astronauts used stereophotogrammetry to make accurate three-dimensional measurement of body form, from which regional and total body volumes were derived. Volume changes in the thighs and calves, over the course of the flight, showed a high correlation with inflight exercise on the bicycle ergometer, and suggested that an exercise level of 80-100 W-min/d/kg lean body mass would be necessary to prevent inflight muscle atrophy. The bicycle ergometer is thus a relatively inefficient means of preventing leg muscle atrophy. Inflight caloric intake showed a high correlation with the change in volume of the buttocks, the abdomen, and the body as a whole, and suggested that a caloric intake of 47-51 kcal/d/kg lean body mass would be necessary to prevent a change in body fat. Only one of the astronauts exceeded this range and gained body fat; the group as a whole showed a mean fat loss of 1.2 kg.", "PMID": 444176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6595", "title": "Evaluation of the helicopter in aeromedical transfers.", "content": "Since the end of the Vietnam conflict, the technology of moving patients by helicopter has been applied to peacetime uses. There is doubt, however, that the helicopter has much to offer the patient when used as a routine and semi-emergency ambulance. This study reviewed 52 consecutive aeromedical evacuation requests which included both civilian and military patients. By comparing the patient's condition at both pickup, delivery and his subsequent course, it was determined that most patients would not have been unduly harmed by the slower methods of ground transfer. Only 33% of the patients were benefitted by rapid aeromedical transfer. Those patients benefitted can roughly be grouped as true surgical and medical emergencies. The use of the helicopter for routine transfers is to be discouraged.", "contents": "Evaluation of the helicopter in aeromedical transfers. Since the end of the Vietnam conflict, the technology of moving patients by helicopter has been applied to peacetime uses. There is doubt, however, that the helicopter has much to offer the patient when used as a routine and semi-emergency ambulance. This study reviewed 52 consecutive aeromedical evacuation requests which included both civilian and military patients. By comparing the patient's condition at both pickup, delivery and his subsequent course, it was determined that most patients would not have been unduly harmed by the slower methods of ground transfer. Only 33% of the patients were benefitted by rapid aeromedical transfer. Those patients benefitted can roughly be grouped as true surgical and medical emergencies. The use of the helicopter for routine transfers is to be discouraged.", "PMID": 444177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6596", "title": "Ruptured arteriovenous anomaly in a former woman astronaut candidate.", "content": "A case is reported of a former woman astronaut candidate who withstood the rigors of the preliminary physical examinations for this position. Some years later, she sustained a subarachnoid hemorrhage from an arteriovenous malformation in the right parieto-occipital area, which was successfully excised. Postoperatively, she had a marked visual deficit, from which she completely recovered within 3 months. The development of psychomotor seizures 5 months later was due to probable scarring in the right parieto-occipital region of the cerebral cortex, the interpretive area for orientation of body image in space, which had been supplied by the clipped right anterior and posterior cerebral arteries feeding the arteriovenous anomaly. These seizures have been well controlled on anticonvulsants. A lesion in the temporoparieto-occipital region due to a hemorrhage from a ruptured arteriovenous anomaly, resulting in the disabling symptoms of disorientation or loss of body image due to impairment of the interpretive cortex, could be devastating to the pilot and a mission. This case raises the question of an automatic use of the CT brain scan in screening potential space candidates, and even the consideration of a percutaneous femoral four-vessel arteriogram in all, or possibly selected, candidates. Most neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists probably would consider the risks of the latter procedure too great to justify its use for fear of permanent complications to the space candidate.", "contents": "Ruptured arteriovenous anomaly in a former woman astronaut candidate. A case is reported of a former woman astronaut candidate who withstood the rigors of the preliminary physical examinations for this position. Some years later, she sustained a subarachnoid hemorrhage from an arteriovenous malformation in the right parieto-occipital area, which was successfully excised. Postoperatively, she had a marked visual deficit, from which she completely recovered within 3 months. The development of psychomotor seizures 5 months later was due to probable scarring in the right parieto-occipital region of the cerebral cortex, the interpretive area for orientation of body image in space, which had been supplied by the clipped right anterior and posterior cerebral arteries feeding the arteriovenous anomaly. These seizures have been well controlled on anticonvulsants. A lesion in the temporoparieto-occipital region due to a hemorrhage from a ruptured arteriovenous anomaly, resulting in the disabling symptoms of disorientation or loss of body image due to impairment of the interpretive cortex, could be devastating to the pilot and a mission. This case raises the question of an automatic use of the CT brain scan in screening potential space candidates, and even the consideration of a percutaneous femoral four-vessel arteriogram in all, or possibly selected, candidates. Most neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists probably would consider the risks of the latter procedure too great to justify its use for fear of permanent complications to the space candidate.", "PMID": 444178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6597", "title": "Formation of an unstable covalent intermediate during the inhibition of electric-eel acetylcholinesterase with 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides.", "content": "The kinetics of interaction of eel acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) with 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides were investigated. It was demonstrated that the rate of spontaneous re-activation as well as the re-activation profile in the presence of 2-pyridine aldoxime methiodide of the inhibited enzyme are irrespective of the leaving group of three inhibitors and exhibit the same values. The dissociation constant of the corresponding Michaelis complex was evaluated by two independent methods and the results were found to be in close agreement. It was shown that the active site is essential for interaction between the enzyme and the various dioxaphosphorinanes. The mixed anhydride of diethyl phosphoric acid and 2-hydroxy-1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxide behaves exactly as would be predicted from a typical diethyl phosphate inhibitor. Enxyme that was incubated with the cyclic acid or the corresponding methyl ester recovered immediately upon extensive dilution. Inhibition of enzyme in the presence of high concentratasions of the corresponding 2-chloro and 2-fluoro derivatives decreased the regeneration rates as well as the maximal amount of the re-activated enzyme. This observation could not be explained in terms of a classical aging process. On the basis of the kinetics observations it is suggested that an unstable covalent phospho-enzyme intermediate is formed during the reaction between acetylcholinesterase and 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides.", "contents": "Formation of an unstable covalent intermediate during the inhibition of electric-eel acetylcholinesterase with 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides. The kinetics of interaction of eel acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) with 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides were investigated. It was demonstrated that the rate of spontaneous re-activation as well as the re-activation profile in the presence of 2-pyridine aldoxime methiodide of the inhibited enzyme are irrespective of the leaving group of three inhibitors and exhibit the same values. The dissociation constant of the corresponding Michaelis complex was evaluated by two independent methods and the results were found to be in close agreement. It was shown that the active site is essential for interaction between the enzyme and the various dioxaphosphorinanes. The mixed anhydride of diethyl phosphoric acid and 2-hydroxy-1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxide behaves exactly as would be predicted from a typical diethyl phosphate inhibitor. Enxyme that was incubated with the cyclic acid or the corresponding methyl ester recovered immediately upon extensive dilution. Inhibition of enzyme in the presence of high concentratasions of the corresponding 2-chloro and 2-fluoro derivatives decreased the regeneration rates as well as the maximal amount of the re-activated enzyme. This observation could not be explained in terms of a classical aging process. On the basis of the kinetics observations it is suggested that an unstable covalent phospho-enzyme intermediate is formed during the reaction between acetylcholinesterase and 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane 2-oxides.", "PMID": 444203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6598", "title": "Structure and synthesis of naturally occurring anhydrovitamin A2.", "content": "The structure of naturally occurring anhydrovitamin A2 was elucidated as 3-hydroxyanhydroretinol from study of its u.v.--visible, i.r., n.m.r. and mass spectra. The structure has been confirmed by a chemical synthesis. Saccobranchus fossils, a freshwater fish, can convert 3-hydroxyretinol into 3-hydroxyanhydroretinol, which in turn is converted into-3-dehydroretinol. Chemical conversion of 3-hydroxyretinol into 3-dehydroretinol was also carried out.", "contents": "Structure and synthesis of naturally occurring anhydrovitamin A2. The structure of naturally occurring anhydrovitamin A2 was elucidated as 3-hydroxyanhydroretinol from study of its u.v.--visible, i.r., n.m.r. and mass spectra. The structure has been confirmed by a chemical synthesis. Saccobranchus fossils, a freshwater fish, can convert 3-hydroxyretinol into 3-hydroxyanhydroretinol, which in turn is converted into-3-dehydroretinol. Chemical conversion of 3-hydroxyretinol into 3-dehydroretinol was also carried out.", "PMID": 444204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6599", "title": "UDP-glucosyltransferase activity of housefly microsomal fraction.", "content": "Housefly UDP-glucosyltransferase activity towards p-nitrophenol was demonstrated in a system in vitro. The activity is localized in the microsomal fraction, requires UDP-glucose, is slightly stimulated by Mg2+ and is activated optimally over a wide range of detergent concentration. Phenobarbital increases the enzyme(s) activity about 3-fold, with p-nitrophenol as substrate, which differs from the corresponding mammalian glucuronyltransferase.", "contents": "UDP-glucosyltransferase activity of housefly microsomal fraction. Housefly UDP-glucosyltransferase activity towards p-nitrophenol was demonstrated in a system in vitro. The activity is localized in the microsomal fraction, requires UDP-glucose, is slightly stimulated by Mg2+ and is activated optimally over a wide range of detergent concentration. Phenobarbital increases the enzyme(s) activity about 3-fold, with p-nitrophenol as substrate, which differs from the corresponding mammalian glucuronyltransferase.", "PMID": 444205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6600", "title": "Selective inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase of rat tissues by sodium deoxycholate.", "content": "Soluble lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27) extracted from brain, skeletal and cardiac muscle and liver of rats, and purified isoenzymes LDH-1 and LDH-5, were incubated with sodium deoxycholate. Deoxycholate almost totally inactivated isoenzyme LDH-5 (A4), whereas it left isoenzyme LDH-1 (B4) unaffected. Tissue lactate dehydrogenase was inactivated to different degrees depending on the origin of the enzyme. Electrophoretic isoenzyme studies of tissue lactate dehydrogenase showed the loss of activity to be quantitatively related to the overall percentage of subunit A distributed among the homotetramer LDH-5 and the heterotetramers LDH-2, LDH-3 and LDH-4. It was concluded that subunit A of lactate dehydrogenase interacts selectively with deoxycholate, irrespective of its association with subunit B. Distinct changes in electrophoretic mobilities of deoxycholate-treated isoenzymes strongly indicated an indiscriminate binding of deoxycholate by all LDH isoenzymes, probably through hydrophobic interactions. The results suggest that the inactivation of the enzyme is non-competitive, but the basis of the selectivity of deoxycholate towards subunit A is not known at present.", "contents": "Selective inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase of rat tissues by sodium deoxycholate. Soluble lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27) extracted from brain, skeletal and cardiac muscle and liver of rats, and purified isoenzymes LDH-1 and LDH-5, were incubated with sodium deoxycholate. Deoxycholate almost totally inactivated isoenzyme LDH-5 (A4), whereas it left isoenzyme LDH-1 (B4) unaffected. Tissue lactate dehydrogenase was inactivated to different degrees depending on the origin of the enzyme. Electrophoretic isoenzyme studies of tissue lactate dehydrogenase showed the loss of activity to be quantitatively related to the overall percentage of subunit A distributed among the homotetramer LDH-5 and the heterotetramers LDH-2, LDH-3 and LDH-4. It was concluded that subunit A of lactate dehydrogenase interacts selectively with deoxycholate, irrespective of its association with subunit B. Distinct changes in electrophoretic mobilities of deoxycholate-treated isoenzymes strongly indicated an indiscriminate binding of deoxycholate by all LDH isoenzymes, probably through hydrophobic interactions. The results suggest that the inactivation of the enzyme is non-competitive, but the basis of the selectivity of deoxycholate towards subunit A is not known at present.", "PMID": 444206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6601", "title": "Hydroxylysine-linked glycosides of human complement subcomponent C1q and various collagens.", "content": "1. Human C1q, a subcomponent of the first component of complement, contains 67 disaccharides (glucosylgalactose) and 2.4 monosaccharides (galactose) linked to hydroxylysine in one molecule. It was found that 82.6% of the hydroxylsine residues were glycosylated. The suggestion of the possible existence of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine reported previously [Yonemasu, Stroud, Niedermeir & Butler (1971) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 43, 1388--1394] was confirmed. 2. The hydroxylysine-glycosides are not detected in the C-terminal, non-collagen-like, globular regions, but only in the collagen-like regions in the subcomponent C1q molecule. 3. Alpha 1(I) and alpha 2 in pig skin, alpha 1(II) in bovine cartilage and alpha 1(III) in bovine skin collagens contain 2.0, 2.2, 13.2 and 2.0 residues of hydroxylysine-glycosides per molecule, respectively. The percentage of hydroxylysine residues glycosylated in each of these chains is relatively low (on average 38%). 4. Neither the high percentage of hydroxylysine residues glycosylated nor the high values for the ratios of disaccharides to monosaccharides in the subcomponent C1q resembles that in alpha 1(I), alpha 2, alpha 1(II) and alpha 1(III). 5. Similarities between the extent of glycosylation of hydroxylysine residues in collagen-like regions in the subcomponent C1q molecule and that of the collagenous constituents of human glomerular basement membranes, aortic intima, skin A- and B-chains and of bovine anterior lens capsule are discussed.", "contents": "Hydroxylysine-linked glycosides of human complement subcomponent C1q and various collagens. 1. Human C1q, a subcomponent of the first component of complement, contains 67 disaccharides (glucosylgalactose) and 2.4 monosaccharides (galactose) linked to hydroxylysine in one molecule. It was found that 82.6% of the hydroxylsine residues were glycosylated. The suggestion of the possible existence of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine reported previously [Yonemasu, Stroud, Niedermeir & Butler (1971) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 43, 1388--1394] was confirmed. 2. The hydroxylysine-glycosides are not detected in the C-terminal, non-collagen-like, globular regions, but only in the collagen-like regions in the subcomponent C1q molecule. 3. Alpha 1(I) and alpha 2 in pig skin, alpha 1(II) in bovine cartilage and alpha 1(III) in bovine skin collagens contain 2.0, 2.2, 13.2 and 2.0 residues of hydroxylysine-glycosides per molecule, respectively. The percentage of hydroxylysine residues glycosylated in each of these chains is relatively low (on average 38%). 4. Neither the high percentage of hydroxylysine residues glycosylated nor the high values for the ratios of disaccharides to monosaccharides in the subcomponent C1q resembles that in alpha 1(I), alpha 2, alpha 1(II) and alpha 1(III). 5. Similarities between the extent of glycosylation of hydroxylysine residues in collagen-like regions in the subcomponent C1q molecule and that of the collagenous constituents of human glomerular basement membranes, aortic intima, skin A- and B-chains and of bovine anterior lens capsule are discussed.", "PMID": 444207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6602", "title": "A possible role for dehydrodihydroxylysinonorleucine in collagen fibre and bundle formation.", "content": "The concentrations of NaB3H4-reducible collagen cross-links were determined at the time when collagen fibres and bundles are observed in electron micrographs of connective tissue developing around the implanted Ivalon sponge in adult male rats. The highest radioactivity occurs with hydroxylysinonoreleucine and histidinohydroxymerodesmosine, and the lowest with lysinonorleucine, the reducible amounts of these cross-links remaining relatively constant as fibres and bundles appear. On the other hand, dihydroxylysinonorleucine amounts are low during the initial stages of connective-tissue formation and rise sharply as collagen fibres and bundles develop and collagen matures, as shown by increased resistance of insoluble collagen to digestion with bacterial collagenase. The bulk of hydroxylysinonorleucine and dihydroxylysinonorleucine is glycosylated, the former with galactosyl or glucosylgalactosyl residues and the latter with glucosylgalactosyl residues. The changing relationships between the amounts of 3H-labelled hydroxylysinonorleucine, glucosylgalactosyldihydroxylysinonorleucine and non-glycosylated dihydroxylysinonorleucine as fibres and bundles appear suggest three post-translational steps involving lysyl-derived cross-links in the organization of collagen into fibres and bundles.", "contents": "A possible role for dehydrodihydroxylysinonorleucine in collagen fibre and bundle formation. The concentrations of NaB3H4-reducible collagen cross-links were determined at the time when collagen fibres and bundles are observed in electron micrographs of connective tissue developing around the implanted Ivalon sponge in adult male rats. The highest radioactivity occurs with hydroxylysinonoreleucine and histidinohydroxymerodesmosine, and the lowest with lysinonorleucine, the reducible amounts of these cross-links remaining relatively constant as fibres and bundles appear. On the other hand, dihydroxylysinonorleucine amounts are low during the initial stages of connective-tissue formation and rise sharply as collagen fibres and bundles develop and collagen matures, as shown by increased resistance of insoluble collagen to digestion with bacterial collagenase. The bulk of hydroxylysinonorleucine and dihydroxylysinonorleucine is glycosylated, the former with galactosyl or glucosylgalactosyl residues and the latter with glucosylgalactosyl residues. The changing relationships between the amounts of 3H-labelled hydroxylysinonorleucine, glucosylgalactosyldihydroxylysinonorleucine and non-glycosylated dihydroxylysinonorleucine as fibres and bundles appear suggest three post-translational steps involving lysyl-derived cross-links in the organization of collagen into fibres and bundles.", "PMID": 444208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6603", "title": "Multiple inhibition of glutathione S-transferase A from rat liver by glutathione derivatives: kinetic analysis supporting a steady-state random sequential mechanism.", "content": "Glutathione derivatives inhibit glutathione S-transferase A [cf. Biochem. J. (1975) 147, 513--522]. The steady-state kinetics of this inhibition have been investigated in detail by using S-octyglutathione, glutathione disulphide and S-(2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl)glutathione: the last compound is a product of the enzyme-catalused reaction. Interpreted in terms of generalized denotations of inhibition patterns, the compounds were found to be competitive with the substrate glutathione. Double-inhibition experiments involving simultaneous use of two inhibitors indicated exclusive binding of the inhibitors to the enzyme. The discrimination between alternative rate equations has been based on the results of weighted non-linear regression analysis. The experimental error was determined by replicate measurements and was found to increase with velocity. The established error structure was used as a basis for weighting in the regression and to construct confidence levels for the judgement of goodness-of-fit of rate equations fitted to experimental data. The results obtained support a steady-state random model for the mechanism of action of glutathione S-transferase A and exclude a number of simple kinetic models.", "contents": "Multiple inhibition of glutathione S-transferase A from rat liver by glutathione derivatives: kinetic analysis supporting a steady-state random sequential mechanism. Glutathione derivatives inhibit glutathione S-transferase A [cf. Biochem. J. (1975) 147, 513--522]. The steady-state kinetics of this inhibition have been investigated in detail by using S-octyglutathione, glutathione disulphide and S-(2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl)glutathione: the last compound is a product of the enzyme-catalused reaction. Interpreted in terms of generalized denotations of inhibition patterns, the compounds were found to be competitive with the substrate glutathione. Double-inhibition experiments involving simultaneous use of two inhibitors indicated exclusive binding of the inhibitors to the enzyme. The discrimination between alternative rate equations has been based on the results of weighted non-linear regression analysis. The experimental error was determined by replicate measurements and was found to increase with velocity. The established error structure was used as a basis for weighting in the regression and to construct confidence levels for the judgement of goodness-of-fit of rate equations fitted to experimental data. The results obtained support a steady-state random model for the mechanism of action of glutathione S-transferase A and exclude a number of simple kinetic models.", "PMID": 444209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6604", "title": "Comparison of endogenous and exogenous RNA primers of poly(U) polymerase in rat hepatic ribosomes.", "content": "The present work indicates that RNA primer requirements for poly(U) polymerase in the free ribosomes of the rat liver depend upon the degree of enzyme purification. The poly(U) polymerase activity obtained from a crude free ribosomal preparation was compared with the enzymic activity of a partially purified enzyme. After preliminary purification, the enzyme was fractionated by chromatography on Sephadex G-150 and CM-cellulose. Our results demonstrate the presence of several forms of poly(U) polymerase activities, some requiring exogenous RNA and others possessing their own endogenous primer RNA.", "contents": "Comparison of endogenous and exogenous RNA primers of poly(U) polymerase in rat hepatic ribosomes. The present work indicates that RNA primer requirements for poly(U) polymerase in the free ribosomes of the rat liver depend upon the degree of enzyme purification. The poly(U) polymerase activity obtained from a crude free ribosomal preparation was compared with the enzymic activity of a partially purified enzyme. After preliminary purification, the enzyme was fractionated by chromatography on Sephadex G-150 and CM-cellulose. Our results demonstrate the presence of several forms of poly(U) polymerase activities, some requiring exogenous RNA and others possessing their own endogenous primer RNA.", "PMID": 444210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6605", "title": "Effects of nucleophiles on the breakdown of the benzylpenicilloyl-enzyme complex EI formed between benzylpenicillin and the exocellular DD-carboxypeptidase--transpeptiase of Streptomyces strain R61.", "content": "Serine is one of the enzyme residues with which benzylpenicillin collides as a result of its binding to the Streptomyces strain-R61 DD-carboxypeptidase-transpeptidase enzyme. Nucleophilic attack occurs on C(7) of the bound antibiotic molecule with formation of a benzylpenicilloyl-serine ester linkage, i.e. formation of the benzylpenicilloyl-enzyme EI complex. To reject the bound penicilloyl moiety and consequently to recover its initial activities, the strain-R61 enzyme has developed two possible mechanisms. Pathway A is a direct attack of the serine ester linkage by an exogenous nucleophile, resulting in the transfer of the benzylpenicilloyl moiety to this nucleophile. In pathway B, the benzylpenicilloyl moiety is first fragmented by C(5)-C(6) cleavage and the enzyme-bound phenylacetylglycyl residue thus produced is in turn transferred to the nucleophile. Pathway B occurs with water, glycylglycine and other amino compounds. Both pathways A and B occur with glycerol, other ROH nucleophiles and neutral hydroxylamine. The nucleophilic attacks are enzyme-catalysed.", "contents": "Effects of nucleophiles on the breakdown of the benzylpenicilloyl-enzyme complex EI formed between benzylpenicillin and the exocellular DD-carboxypeptidase--transpeptiase of Streptomyces strain R61. Serine is one of the enzyme residues with which benzylpenicillin collides as a result of its binding to the Streptomyces strain-R61 DD-carboxypeptidase-transpeptidase enzyme. Nucleophilic attack occurs on C(7) of the bound antibiotic molecule with formation of a benzylpenicilloyl-serine ester linkage, i.e. formation of the benzylpenicilloyl-enzyme EI complex. To reject the bound penicilloyl moiety and consequently to recover its initial activities, the strain-R61 enzyme has developed two possible mechanisms. Pathway A is a direct attack of the serine ester linkage by an exogenous nucleophile, resulting in the transfer of the benzylpenicilloyl moiety to this nucleophile. In pathway B, the benzylpenicilloyl moiety is first fragmented by C(5)-C(6) cleavage and the enzyme-bound phenylacetylglycyl residue thus produced is in turn transferred to the nucleophile. Pathway B occurs with water, glycylglycine and other amino compounds. Both pathways A and B occur with glycerol, other ROH nucleophiles and neutral hydroxylamine. The nucleophilic attacks are enzyme-catalysed.", "PMID": 444211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6606", "title": "Liver monoamine oxidase in the obese-hyperglycaemic (ob/ob) mouse.", "content": "1. The specific activity of monoamine oxidase was found to be greater in liver mitochondria from ob/ob mice than from lean mice. The activities of marker enzymes were similar in both tissues. 2. Experiments with various substrates (5-hydroxytryptamine, benzylamine and tyramine) and inhibitors (clorgyline and deprenyl) indicated that, unlike rat liver mitochondria, mouse liver mitochondria contain a predominance of the B-form of monoamine oxidase. 3. The Km values for lean and ob/ob mice were the same for any given substrate and were in the increasing order 5-hydroxytryptamine less than tyramine less than benzylamine. Vmax. was approximately 50% greater in obese than in lean mice. 4. Extraction of liver mitochondria with acetone/water or acetone/water/NH3 to remove lipids decreased the enzyme activity relatively more in obese- than in lean-mice preparations, but residual activity was the same in both preparations.", "contents": "Liver monoamine oxidase in the obese-hyperglycaemic (ob/ob) mouse. 1. The specific activity of monoamine oxidase was found to be greater in liver mitochondria from ob/ob mice than from lean mice. The activities of marker enzymes were similar in both tissues. 2. Experiments with various substrates (5-hydroxytryptamine, benzylamine and tyramine) and inhibitors (clorgyline and deprenyl) indicated that, unlike rat liver mitochondria, mouse liver mitochondria contain a predominance of the B-form of monoamine oxidase. 3. The Km values for lean and ob/ob mice were the same for any given substrate and were in the increasing order 5-hydroxytryptamine less than tyramine less than benzylamine. Vmax. was approximately 50% greater in obese than in lean mice. 4. Extraction of liver mitochondria with acetone/water or acetone/water/NH3 to remove lipids decreased the enzyme activity relatively more in obese- than in lean-mice preparations, but residual activity was the same in both preparations.", "PMID": 444212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6607", "title": "Persistence of methylated bases in ribonucleic acid of syrian golden hamster liver after administration of dimethylnitrosamine.", "content": "1. Syrian golden hamster liver ribosomal RNA was isolated up to 96 h after administration of [14C]dimethylnitrosamine at 25 mg/kg or 2.5 mg/kg body weight. 2. The chemical alkyation products, 7-methylguanine, 3-methylcytosine, O6-methylguanosine and 1-methyladenosine, were measured after acidic or enzymic hydrolysis of the RNA to bases or mononucleosides followed by ion-exchange chromatography. 3. Between 7 and 96 h, the relative amounts of alkylation products did not change with time even though the absolute amounts fell by approx. 80% and 51% after the high and low doses respectively. 4. The results suggest that base specific excision repair does not exist for RNA alkylation products in this experimental system.", "contents": "Persistence of methylated bases in ribonucleic acid of syrian golden hamster liver after administration of dimethylnitrosamine. 1. Syrian golden hamster liver ribosomal RNA was isolated up to 96 h after administration of [14C]dimethylnitrosamine at 25 mg/kg or 2.5 mg/kg body weight. 2. The chemical alkyation products, 7-methylguanine, 3-methylcytosine, O6-methylguanosine and 1-methyladenosine, were measured after acidic or enzymic hydrolysis of the RNA to bases or mononucleosides followed by ion-exchange chromatography. 3. Between 7 and 96 h, the relative amounts of alkylation products did not change with time even though the absolute amounts fell by approx. 80% and 51% after the high and low doses respectively. 4. The results suggest that base specific excision repair does not exist for RNA alkylation products in this experimental system.", "PMID": 444213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6608", "title": "A rapid and sensitive method for measuring ribonucleic acid in ribosomal preparations.", "content": "By using the fluorescence enhancement of ethidium bromide when it binds to RNA, a very rapid, simple and sensitive assay for the concentration of ribosomal RNA in complex mixtures has been devised.", "contents": "A rapid and sensitive method for measuring ribonucleic acid in ribosomal preparations. By using the fluorescence enhancement of ethidium bromide when it binds to RNA, a very rapid, simple and sensitive assay for the concentration of ribosomal RNA in complex mixtures has been devised.", "PMID": 444214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6609", "title": "Cholesterol exchange as a function of cholesterol/phospholipid mole ratios.", "content": "The activation energy (Ea) for cholesterol exchange between dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine vesicles and erythrocyte 'ghosts' is measured as a function of molar percentage of cholesterol in both donor and acceptor membranes. A sharp increase in Ea occurs (from 39.9kJ/mol to 84kJ/mol) when the molar percentage of cholesterol decreases from 30 to 20%.", "contents": "Cholesterol exchange as a function of cholesterol/phospholipid mole ratios. The activation energy (Ea) for cholesterol exchange between dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine vesicles and erythrocyte 'ghosts' is measured as a function of molar percentage of cholesterol in both donor and acceptor membranes. A sharp increase in Ea occurs (from 39.9kJ/mol to 84kJ/mol) when the molar percentage of cholesterol decreases from 30 to 20%.", "PMID": 444215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6610", "title": "S-(N-dansylaminoethyl)-6-mercaptoguanosine as a fluorescent probe for the uridine transport system in human erythrocytes.", "content": "A fluorescent derivative of 6-mercaptoguanosine, S-(N-dansylaminoethyl)-6-mercaptoguanosine, was synthesized, and found to be a strong inhibitor of the uridine transport system of erythrocyte (Ki approximately 0.3 microM). The emission spectrum of this compound has peaks at 400 and 550 nm. The emission at 550, but not that a 400 nm, in environment-sensitive. A method was devised for preparing a suspension of erythrocyte-membrane fragments with sufficiently low light scattering so that a detailed study could be made of the fluorescence of the probe when bound to membranes. Direct binding measurements showed the existence of a tight binding site, with a dissociation constant of the same order of magnitude as the inhibition constant. Binding of probe and substrate are not mutually exclusive, but the fluorescence and affinity of the bound probe are sensitive to the presence of uridine. The emission spectrum suggests that the bound probe penetrates into the bilayer region of the membrane.", "contents": "S-(N-dansylaminoethyl)-6-mercaptoguanosine as a fluorescent probe for the uridine transport system in human erythrocytes. A fluorescent derivative of 6-mercaptoguanosine, S-(N-dansylaminoethyl)-6-mercaptoguanosine, was synthesized, and found to be a strong inhibitor of the uridine transport system of erythrocyte (Ki approximately 0.3 microM). The emission spectrum of this compound has peaks at 400 and 550 nm. The emission at 550, but not that a 400 nm, in environment-sensitive. A method was devised for preparing a suspension of erythrocyte-membrane fragments with sufficiently low light scattering so that a detailed study could be made of the fluorescence of the probe when bound to membranes. Direct binding measurements showed the existence of a tight binding site, with a dissociation constant of the same order of magnitude as the inhibition constant. Binding of probe and substrate are not mutually exclusive, but the fluorescence and affinity of the bound probe are sensitive to the presence of uridine. The emission spectrum suggests that the bound probe penetrates into the bilayer region of the membrane.", "PMID": 444216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6611", "title": "Sodium ion-coupled uptake of taurocholate by intestinal brush-border membrane vesicles.", "content": "The uptake of taurocholate was studied in membrane vesicles isolated from brush borders of hamster jejunum and ileum. When an extra- to intra-vesicular gradient of Na+ ions was present ileal vesicles took up 10 times more taurocholate than did jejunal vesicles. Accumulation of taurocholate by ileal vesicles was transient and was due to transport of this bile salt into an osmotically active intravesicular space rather than simple binding. Uptake of taurocholate was specifically dependent on Na+ ions; NaCl and Na2SO4 were capable of supporting accumulation, whereas KCl, LiCl and mannitol were not. Na+-coupled uptake of taurocholate into ileal vesicles was inhibited by other trihydroxy bile salts, by preloading the vesicles with Na+ and by simultaneous flow of glucose into the vesicles. Similarly, vesicular uptake of glucose was inhibited by simultaneous uptake of taurocholate. These results demonstrated that brush-border membrane vesicles prepared from ileum possess an Na+-coupled co-transport system for taurocholate that is similar to the active bile-salt transport system present in the intact ileum.", "contents": "Sodium ion-coupled uptake of taurocholate by intestinal brush-border membrane vesicles. The uptake of taurocholate was studied in membrane vesicles isolated from brush borders of hamster jejunum and ileum. When an extra- to intra-vesicular gradient of Na+ ions was present ileal vesicles took up 10 times more taurocholate than did jejunal vesicles. Accumulation of taurocholate by ileal vesicles was transient and was due to transport of this bile salt into an osmotically active intravesicular space rather than simple binding. Uptake of taurocholate was specifically dependent on Na+ ions; NaCl and Na2SO4 were capable of supporting accumulation, whereas KCl, LiCl and mannitol were not. Na+-coupled uptake of taurocholate into ileal vesicles was inhibited by other trihydroxy bile salts, by preloading the vesicles with Na+ and by simultaneous flow of glucose into the vesicles. Similarly, vesicular uptake of glucose was inhibited by simultaneous uptake of taurocholate. These results demonstrated that brush-border membrane vesicles prepared from ileum possess an Na+-coupled co-transport system for taurocholate that is similar to the active bile-salt transport system present in the intact ileum.", "PMID": 444217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6612", "title": "Topological arrangement in microsomal membranes of hepatic haem oxygenase induced by cobalt chloride.", "content": "1. The microsomal haem oxygenase activity induced by the administration of CoCl2 was found mainly in the smooth-surfaced microsomal fraction, whereas that of the untreated control animals was widely distributed in smooth-surfaced microsomal, rough-surfaced microsomal and Golgi fractions. 2. When microsomal preparation was incubated and the time course of the distribution of biliverdin between the membranes and the medium was followed, most of the biliverdin formed was found first in the medium. This suggests that the active site of haem oxygenase is exposed on the cytoplasmic surface of the membranes. The possible localization of the enzyme at the outer surface of the membranes was also supported by a digestion experiment with trypsin. The haem oxygenase activity was greatly decreased even at low concentration of the proteinase, which did not affected the NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity. 3. When microsomal preparation was further fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation in the presence of deoxycholate or by partitioning of sonicated microsomal preparation in aqueous-polymer two-phase systems, most of the haem oxygenase activity was found in a fraction different from the main fraction of the NADH- and NADPH-cytochrome c reductase and NADH--ferricyanide reductase activities. This indicates the different distribution of haem oxygenase from the other enzymes mentioned, on the lateral plane of microsomal membranes, and suggests the different localization of the haem oxygenase system from the electron-transport system linked with cytochrome b5 and cytochrome P-450.", "contents": "Topological arrangement in microsomal membranes of hepatic haem oxygenase induced by cobalt chloride. 1. The microsomal haem oxygenase activity induced by the administration of CoCl2 was found mainly in the smooth-surfaced microsomal fraction, whereas that of the untreated control animals was widely distributed in smooth-surfaced microsomal, rough-surfaced microsomal and Golgi fractions. 2. When microsomal preparation was incubated and the time course of the distribution of biliverdin between the membranes and the medium was followed, most of the biliverdin formed was found first in the medium. This suggests that the active site of haem oxygenase is exposed on the cytoplasmic surface of the membranes. The possible localization of the enzyme at the outer surface of the membranes was also supported by a digestion experiment with trypsin. The haem oxygenase activity was greatly decreased even at low concentration of the proteinase, which did not affected the NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity. 3. When microsomal preparation was further fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation in the presence of deoxycholate or by partitioning of sonicated microsomal preparation in aqueous-polymer two-phase systems, most of the haem oxygenase activity was found in a fraction different from the main fraction of the NADH- and NADPH-cytochrome c reductase and NADH--ferricyanide reductase activities. This indicates the different distribution of haem oxygenase from the other enzymes mentioned, on the lateral plane of microsomal membranes, and suggests the different localization of the haem oxygenase system from the electron-transport system linked with cytochrome b5 and cytochrome P-450.", "PMID": 444218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6613", "title": "The effect of starvation on the rate of protein synthesis in rat liver and small intestine.", "content": "1. A method is described that allows for measurement of protein synthesis in liver and intestine in the rat. By injecting a massive amount of [14C]leucine (100 mumol/100 g body wt.) an attempt has been made to over come problems of precursor specific radioactivity and problems arising from the breakdown of labelled protein that are encountered when tracer amounts of amino acids are used. 2. Starvation for 2 days resulted in decline in the rate of total liver protein synthesis from 87%/day to 62%/day. 3. In jejunal mucosa the rate of protein synthesis was 136%/day. This declined to 105%/day after 2 days of starvation.", "contents": "The effect of starvation on the rate of protein synthesis in rat liver and small intestine. 1. A method is described that allows for measurement of protein synthesis in liver and intestine in the rat. By injecting a massive amount of [14C]leucine (100 mumol/100 g body wt.) an attempt has been made to over come problems of precursor specific radioactivity and problems arising from the breakdown of labelled protein that are encountered when tracer amounts of amino acids are used. 2. Starvation for 2 days resulted in decline in the rate of total liver protein synthesis from 87%/day to 62%/day. 3. In jejunal mucosa the rate of protein synthesis was 136%/day. This declined to 105%/day after 2 days of starvation.", "PMID": 444219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6614", "title": "Polyamine replacement by magnesium ions in BHK-21/C13 cells.", "content": "Cultures of BHK-21/C13 cells, whose growth was inhibited by deprivation of serum, were stimulated to grow by addition of serum to the culture medium. Addition of MgCl(2) to the medium, to increase the concentration of Mg(2+) ions by 15mm, 30min before addition of serum, had no effect on the stimulation of cell growth, but inhibited the accumulation of cellular spermidine, so that the spermidine/spermine molar ratio was lower in these cultures than in cultures that had received no additional cations. The increase in the activity of ornithine decarboxylase that occurs 4-5h after serum ;step-up' was substantially diminished by increasing the concentration of Mg(2+) ions, but not of Na(+) or K(+) ions, in the medium by 30mm, 30min before addition of serum, and this inhibition was maintained for at least 24h. Methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), added to serum-deprived cultures to a concentration of 20mum, 30min before addition of serum, severely inhibited the increase in cell growth. The inhibitory effects of the drug were prevented by simultaneous addition of spermidine to the medium (to 100mum), and were partly prevented by the simultaneous addition of Mg(2+) ions (to 30mm). Mg(2+) ions were particularly effective in overcoming the inhibitory effect of methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) on the synthesis of DNA. Thus although a certain lack of specificity for cations exists in BHK-21/C13 cells, in that Mg(2+) ions can be substituted for polyamines, particularly spermidine, to some extent, there are cellular processes for which the requirement for polyamines as cations is specific.", "contents": "Polyamine replacement by magnesium ions in BHK-21/C13 cells. Cultures of BHK-21/C13 cells, whose growth was inhibited by deprivation of serum, were stimulated to grow by addition of serum to the culture medium. Addition of MgCl(2) to the medium, to increase the concentration of Mg(2+) ions by 15mm, 30min before addition of serum, had no effect on the stimulation of cell growth, but inhibited the accumulation of cellular spermidine, so that the spermidine/spermine molar ratio was lower in these cultures than in cultures that had received no additional cations. The increase in the activity of ornithine decarboxylase that occurs 4-5h after serum ;step-up' was substantially diminished by increasing the concentration of Mg(2+) ions, but not of Na(+) or K(+) ions, in the medium by 30mm, 30min before addition of serum, and this inhibition was maintained for at least 24h. Methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), added to serum-deprived cultures to a concentration of 20mum, 30min before addition of serum, severely inhibited the increase in cell growth. The inhibitory effects of the drug were prevented by simultaneous addition of spermidine to the medium (to 100mum), and were partly prevented by the simultaneous addition of Mg(2+) ions (to 30mm). Mg(2+) ions were particularly effective in overcoming the inhibitory effect of methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) on the synthesis of DNA. Thus although a certain lack of specificity for cations exists in BHK-21/C13 cells, in that Mg(2+) ions can be substituted for polyamines, particularly spermidine, to some extent, there are cellular processes for which the requirement for polyamines as cations is specific.", "PMID": 444220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6615", "title": "Inhibition of the discharge of endocytosed protein from phagosomes into lysosomes in hepatoma cells exposed to dimerized ribonuclease A.", "content": "The mechanism of the cytostatic action of dimerized ribonuclease A toward cultured hepatoma cells was investigated. A decrease in mitotic index, modifications of adsorptive properties of the pericellular membrane and inhibition of the degradation of two different proteins taken up by endocytosis are the first cell functions to be affected by the dimer. This effect on protein digestion is not due to an inhibition of proteolytic enzymes. The intracellular localization of exogenous protein and of ribonuclease dimer was studied by cell fractionation. When proteins (horseradish peroxidase or rabbit immunoglobulin G) are taken up by control hepatoma cells, they are first associated with phagosomes equilibrating at a lower density than lysosomes; their density distribution gradually becomes similar to that of lysosomes. When cells are pre-exposed to ribonuclease dimer, this modification of the density distribution as a function of time no longer occurs, although these proteins are still intracellular, as indicated by fractionation by differential centrifugation. During the first hour after addition of ribonuclease dimer, kinetic studies show an increased fixation of peroxidase to the cell membrane. Protein release into the culture medium is also increased. These results can be explained either by an absence of fusion between phagosomes and lysosomes, or by an inhibition of the discharge of peroxidase adsorbed to the phagosomal membrane after fusion.", "contents": "Inhibition of the discharge of endocytosed protein from phagosomes into lysosomes in hepatoma cells exposed to dimerized ribonuclease A. The mechanism of the cytostatic action of dimerized ribonuclease A toward cultured hepatoma cells was investigated. A decrease in mitotic index, modifications of adsorptive properties of the pericellular membrane and inhibition of the degradation of two different proteins taken up by endocytosis are the first cell functions to be affected by the dimer. This effect on protein digestion is not due to an inhibition of proteolytic enzymes. The intracellular localization of exogenous protein and of ribonuclease dimer was studied by cell fractionation. When proteins (horseradish peroxidase or rabbit immunoglobulin G) are taken up by control hepatoma cells, they are first associated with phagosomes equilibrating at a lower density than lysosomes; their density distribution gradually becomes similar to that of lysosomes. When cells are pre-exposed to ribonuclease dimer, this modification of the density distribution as a function of time no longer occurs, although these proteins are still intracellular, as indicated by fractionation by differential centrifugation. During the first hour after addition of ribonuclease dimer, kinetic studies show an increased fixation of peroxidase to the cell membrane. Protein release into the culture medium is also increased. These results can be explained either by an absence of fusion between phagosomes and lysosomes, or by an inhibition of the discharge of peroxidase adsorbed to the phagosomal membrane after fusion.", "PMID": 444221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6616", "title": "The effect of colchicine on human blood platelets under conditions of short-term incubation.", "content": "The effects of colchicine on ADP-induced aggregation and on the phosphorylation of tubulin-like protein from human blood platelets were studied. Colchicine at 2mM concentration completely inhibits ADP-induced aggregation after 8min incubation. Under the same inhibitory conditions, phosphorylation of tubulin-like materials in intact platelets was also impaired whereas the endogenous kinase activity of tubulin, isolated through polymerization--depolymerization cycles, was not affected. It was also shown that, under conditions of maximal inhibition of both aggregation and tubulin phosphorylation, colchicine does not penetrate into the cells. The results obtained suggest that the effect of colchicine on platelet aggregation might be mainly, although not exclusively, due to a non-specific effect of the alkaloid on the plasma membrane, rather than to a direct action of the drug on the microtubular protein subunits.", "contents": "The effect of colchicine on human blood platelets under conditions of short-term incubation. The effects of colchicine on ADP-induced aggregation and on the phosphorylation of tubulin-like protein from human blood platelets were studied. Colchicine at 2mM concentration completely inhibits ADP-induced aggregation after 8min incubation. Under the same inhibitory conditions, phosphorylation of tubulin-like materials in intact platelets was also impaired whereas the endogenous kinase activity of tubulin, isolated through polymerization--depolymerization cycles, was not affected. It was also shown that, under conditions of maximal inhibition of both aggregation and tubulin phosphorylation, colchicine does not penetrate into the cells. The results obtained suggest that the effect of colchicine on platelet aggregation might be mainly, although not exclusively, due to a non-specific effect of the alkaloid on the plasma membrane, rather than to a direct action of the drug on the microtubular protein subunits.", "PMID": 444222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6617", "title": "The influence of vasopressin and related peptides on glycogen phosphorylase activity and phosphatidylinositol metabolism in hepatocytes.", "content": "The relative abilities of seven vasopressin-like peptides to activate hepatic glycogen phosphorylase and stimulate phosphate incorporation into phosphatidylinositol were compared. Although the individual peptides differed in their potencies, the concentrations required to stimulate phosphatidylinositol metabolism were always greater (about 10 times) than those needed to activate phosphorylase. The molecular specificity of the hepatic vasopressin receptor and the role of vasopressin-stimulated phosphatidylinositol turnover are discussed.", "contents": "The influence of vasopressin and related peptides on glycogen phosphorylase activity and phosphatidylinositol metabolism in hepatocytes. The relative abilities of seven vasopressin-like peptides to activate hepatic glycogen phosphorylase and stimulate phosphate incorporation into phosphatidylinositol were compared. Although the individual peptides differed in their potencies, the concentrations required to stimulate phosphatidylinositol metabolism were always greater (about 10 times) than those needed to activate phosphorylase. The molecular specificity of the hepatic vasopressin receptor and the role of vasopressin-stimulated phosphatidylinositol turnover are discussed.", "PMID": 444224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6618", "title": "Leucine degradation in cell-free extracts of skeletal muscle.", "content": "Since skeletal muscle is the major site in the body for oxidation of leucine, isoleucine and valine, the pathway and control of leucine oxidation were investigated in cell-free preparations of rat muscle. Leucine was found to be transaminated to 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate, which was then oxidatively decarboxylated. On differential centrifugation 70--80% of the transaminase activity was recovered in the soluble fraction of the cell, and the remaining amount in the mitochondrial fraction. The transaminase, from both fractions had similar pH optima and both were markedly inhibited by Ca2+. Thus changes in cellular Ca2+ concentration may regulate transaminase activity. Both transaminases had a much higher affinity for 2-oxoglutarate than for pyruvate. Therefore the utilization of amino groups from leucine for the biosynthesis of alanine in muscle [Odessey, Khairallah & Goldberg (1974) J. Biol. Chem. 249, 7623--7629] in vivo involves transamination with 2-oxoglutarate to produce glutamate, which is then transaminated with pyruvate to produce alanine. The dehydrogenase activity assayed by the decarboxylation of methyl-2-oxo[1-14C]pentanoate was localized exclusively in the fraction containing mitochondria and required NAD+, CoA and thiamin pyrophosphate for optimal activity. Measurements of competitive inhibition suggested that the oxo acids of leucine, isoleucine and valine are all decarboxylated by the same enzyme. The enzyme activity was decreased by 90% upon freezing or sonication and was stimulated severalfold by Mg2+, K+ and phosphate ions. In addition, it was markedly inhibited by ATP, but not by non-metabolizable analogues. This observation suggests that splitting of ATP is required for inhibition. The oxidative decarboxylation of 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate by the dehydrogenase appears to be the rate-limiting step for leucine oxidation in muscle homogenates and also in intact tissues. In fact, rat muscles incubated with [1-14C]leucine release 1-14C-labelled oxo acid into the medium at rates comparable with the rate of decarboxylation. Intact muscles also released the oxo acids of [1-14C]valine or [1-14C]isoleucine, but not of other amino acids. These findings suggest that muscle is the primary source of the branched-chain oxo acids found in the blood.", "contents": "Leucine degradation in cell-free extracts of skeletal muscle. Since skeletal muscle is the major site in the body for oxidation of leucine, isoleucine and valine, the pathway and control of leucine oxidation were investigated in cell-free preparations of rat muscle. Leucine was found to be transaminated to 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate, which was then oxidatively decarboxylated. On differential centrifugation 70--80% of the transaminase activity was recovered in the soluble fraction of the cell, and the remaining amount in the mitochondrial fraction. The transaminase, from both fractions had similar pH optima and both were markedly inhibited by Ca2+. Thus changes in cellular Ca2+ concentration may regulate transaminase activity. Both transaminases had a much higher affinity for 2-oxoglutarate than for pyruvate. Therefore the utilization of amino groups from leucine for the biosynthesis of alanine in muscle [Odessey, Khairallah & Goldberg (1974) J. Biol. Chem. 249, 7623--7629] in vivo involves transamination with 2-oxoglutarate to produce glutamate, which is then transaminated with pyruvate to produce alanine. The dehydrogenase activity assayed by the decarboxylation of methyl-2-oxo[1-14C]pentanoate was localized exclusively in the fraction containing mitochondria and required NAD+, CoA and thiamin pyrophosphate for optimal activity. Measurements of competitive inhibition suggested that the oxo acids of leucine, isoleucine and valine are all decarboxylated by the same enzyme. The enzyme activity was decreased by 90% upon freezing or sonication and was stimulated severalfold by Mg2+, K+ and phosphate ions. In addition, it was markedly inhibited by ATP, but not by non-metabolizable analogues. This observation suggests that splitting of ATP is required for inhibition. The oxidative decarboxylation of 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate by the dehydrogenase appears to be the rate-limiting step for leucine oxidation in muscle homogenates and also in intact tissues. In fact, rat muscles incubated with [1-14C]leucine release 1-14C-labelled oxo acid into the medium at rates comparable with the rate of decarboxylation. Intact muscles also released the oxo acids of [1-14C]valine or [1-14C]isoleucine, but not of other amino acids. These findings suggest that muscle is the primary source of the branched-chain oxo acids found in the blood.", "PMID": 444223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6619", "title": "Cycloheximide as a probe of fibrinogen synthesis.", "content": "Fibrinogen synthesis in the intact rat was perturbed by treatment with cycloheximide. Specific radioactivities of fibrinogen in plasma and liver both decreased at 2 h after treatment and increased over 2-fold by 18 h. Labelled-antibody--polyribosome binding experiments showed that more polyribosomes were engaged in fibrinogen synthesis at 18 h after treatment. Radioactivity of plasma fibrinogen chains from untreated control rats showed a constant ratio of A alpha--B beta/gamma = 1.03. At 2 h after cycloheximide treatment the A alpha- and B beta-chains showed the greatest decrease in labelling (A alpha--B beta/gamma = 0.66) and at 18 h all chains were much more labelled (the A alpha--B beta/gamma ratio chainged to 1.39). The observed imbalance in fibrinogen-chain synthesis suggests that cycloheximide has a selective effect on gene expression.", "contents": "Cycloheximide as a probe of fibrinogen synthesis. Fibrinogen synthesis in the intact rat was perturbed by treatment with cycloheximide. Specific radioactivities of fibrinogen in plasma and liver both decreased at 2 h after treatment and increased over 2-fold by 18 h. Labelled-antibody--polyribosome binding experiments showed that more polyribosomes were engaged in fibrinogen synthesis at 18 h after treatment. Radioactivity of plasma fibrinogen chains from untreated control rats showed a constant ratio of A alpha--B beta/gamma = 1.03. At 2 h after cycloheximide treatment the A alpha- and B beta-chains showed the greatest decrease in labelling (A alpha--B beta/gamma = 0.66) and at 18 h all chains were much more labelled (the A alpha--B beta/gamma ratio chainged to 1.39). The observed imbalance in fibrinogen-chain synthesis suggests that cycloheximide has a selective effect on gene expression.", "PMID": 444225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6620", "title": "The influence of thyroxine administered in vivo on the transmembrane protonic electrochemical potential difference in rat liver mitochondria.", "content": "When mitochondria from normal and thyroxine-treated rats were energized by incubation with succinate, phosphate and MgCl2, it was found that the hormone treatment increased the transmembrane protonic electrochemical potential difference by 16mV and the respiration rate by 46%. Other experiments show these changes to be associated with increases in the intramitochondrial K+ and phosphate concentrations.", "contents": "The influence of thyroxine administered in vivo on the transmembrane protonic electrochemical potential difference in rat liver mitochondria. When mitochondria from normal and thyroxine-treated rats were energized by incubation with succinate, phosphate and MgCl2, it was found that the hormone treatment increased the transmembrane protonic electrochemical potential difference by 16mV and the respiration rate by 46%. Other experiments show these changes to be associated with increases in the intramitochondrial K+ and phosphate concentrations.", "PMID": 444226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6621", "title": "Effects of carbon tetrachloride on isolated rat hepatocytes. Inhibition of protein and lipoprotein secretion.", "content": "The effects of carbon tetrachloride on protein and lipoprotein secretion, and on lipid peroxidation, have been investigated in isolated rat hepatocytes. It was found that although the free-radical scavenger promethazine completely suppressed the increased peroxidation produced by carbon tetrachloride, it had no effect on the inhibitory action of carbon tetrachloride on lipoprotein secretion. In consequence, the latter effect of carbon tetrachloride does not appear to be mediated through a peroxidative stage.", "contents": "Effects of carbon tetrachloride on isolated rat hepatocytes. Inhibition of protein and lipoprotein secretion. The effects of carbon tetrachloride on protein and lipoprotein secretion, and on lipid peroxidation, have been investigated in isolated rat hepatocytes. It was found that although the free-radical scavenger promethazine completely suppressed the increased peroxidation produced by carbon tetrachloride, it had no effect on the inhibitory action of carbon tetrachloride on lipoprotein secretion. In consequence, the latter effect of carbon tetrachloride does not appear to be mediated through a peroxidative stage.", "PMID": 444227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6622", "title": "Immune complexes in rheumatoid arthritis sera and synovial fluids: a comparison of three methods.", "content": "Sera and synovial fluids from 88 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were examined for circulating immune complexes by three assays: monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay, C1q binding assay, and Raji cell radioassay. Paired samples were available for 82 patients. Immune complexes were detected with high frequency in the synovial fluid by each assay (75% by the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay, 95% by the C1q binding assay, and 61% by the Raji cell readioassay). In rheumatoid arthritis sera, immune complexes were detected with high frequency by the C1q binding assay (85%) and the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay (70%) but infrequently by the Raji cell radioassay (26%). The presence of immune complexes in serum was most frequently accompanied by the presence of complexes in fluid, regardless of the method of detection; moreover, the levels of immune complexes in synovial fluid were generally higher than in paired serum. Further, the levels of immune complexes as measured by the C1q binding assay correlated with certain parameters of clinical activity, while the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay and Raji cell radioassay correlated with extraarticular features (excluding nodules) of rheumatoid arthritis.", "contents": "Immune complexes in rheumatoid arthritis sera and synovial fluids: a comparison of three methods. Sera and synovial fluids from 88 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were examined for circulating immune complexes by three assays: monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay, C1q binding assay, and Raji cell radioassay. Paired samples were available for 82 patients. Immune complexes were detected with high frequency in the synovial fluid by each assay (75% by the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay, 95% by the C1q binding assay, and 61% by the Raji cell readioassay). In rheumatoid arthritis sera, immune complexes were detected with high frequency by the C1q binding assay (85%) and the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay (70%) but infrequently by the Raji cell radioassay (26%). The presence of immune complexes in serum was most frequently accompanied by the presence of complexes in fluid, regardless of the method of detection; moreover, the levels of immune complexes in synovial fluid were generally higher than in paired serum. Further, the levels of immune complexes as measured by the C1q binding assay correlated with certain parameters of clinical activity, while the monoclonal rheumatoid factor radioimmunoassay and Raji cell radioassay correlated with extraarticular features (excluding nodules) of rheumatoid arthritis.", "PMID": 444313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6623", "title": "Increased antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity by monocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) was studied in adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in healthy controls. Three effector cell populations from the peripheral blood were studied which included a mixed mononuclear population, a monocyte-depleted fraction, and a monocyte-enriched fraction. The monocyte-enriched fraction from patients with RA mediated a significantly increased degree of cytotoxicity. Enhanced cytotoxicity was more evident at low effector : target ratios. There was no significant difference in ADCC activity between patient cells and control cells when either the mixed mononuclear population or monocyte-depleted population was studied as effectors. The enhanced effector function of the peripheral blood monocyte in this system may be further indication that mononuclear phagocytes are \"activated\" in patients with RA.", "contents": "Increased antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity by monocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) was studied in adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in healthy controls. Three effector cell populations from the peripheral blood were studied which included a mixed mononuclear population, a monocyte-depleted fraction, and a monocyte-enriched fraction. The monocyte-enriched fraction from patients with RA mediated a significantly increased degree of cytotoxicity. Enhanced cytotoxicity was more evident at low effector : target ratios. There was no significant difference in ADCC activity between patient cells and control cells when either the mixed mononuclear population or monocyte-depleted population was studied as effectors. The enhanced effector function of the peripheral blood monocyte in this system may be further indication that mononuclear phagocytes are \"activated\" in patients with RA.", "PMID": 444314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6624", "title": "Development and reversal of a proteoglycan aggregation defect in normal canine knee cartilage after immobilization.", "content": "Healthy adult dogs were studied for a defect in proteoglycan aggregation by immobilizing one limb for varying periods of time. Immobilization for 6 days resulted in a 41% reduction in proteoglycan synthesis by articular cartilage from the restrained knee compared with the contralateral control knee. After 3 weeks of immobilization, proteoglycan aggregation was no longer demonstrable in cartilage from the constrained limb. The aggregation defect was rapidly reversible and aggregates were again normal size 2 weeks after removal of a cast that had been worn for 6 weeks.", "contents": "Development and reversal of a proteoglycan aggregation defect in normal canine knee cartilage after immobilization. Healthy adult dogs were studied for a defect in proteoglycan aggregation by immobilizing one limb for varying periods of time. Immobilization for 6 days resulted in a 41% reduction in proteoglycan synthesis by articular cartilage from the restrained knee compared with the contralateral control knee. After 3 weeks of immobilization, proteoglycan aggregation was no longer demonstrable in cartilage from the constrained limb. The aggregation defect was rapidly reversible and aggregates were again normal size 2 weeks after removal of a cast that had been worn for 6 weeks.", "PMID": 444315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6625", "title": "Congenital contractural arachnodactyly: description of a new kindred.", "content": "A previously unreported case of congenital contractural arachnodactyly (CCA) is described. This hereditary connective tissue abnormality resembles Marfan's syndrome in certain respects, but is characterized by camptodactyly rather than joint laxity, as well as by congenital contractural deformities of the knees and elbows. In addition, there is a peculiar, fairly characteristic deformity of the external ear. Like Marfan's syndrome, it is transmitted in autosomal dominant fashion. Despite the superficial skeletal resemblance, however, the cardiovascular and ocular complications of Marfan's do not seem to occur and therefore differentiation of the two syndromes is important.", "contents": "Congenital contractural arachnodactyly: description of a new kindred. A previously unreported case of congenital contractural arachnodactyly (CCA) is described. This hereditary connective tissue abnormality resembles Marfan's syndrome in certain respects, but is characterized by camptodactyly rather than joint laxity, as well as by congenital contractural deformities of the knees and elbows. In addition, there is a peculiar, fairly characteristic deformity of the external ear. Like Marfan's syndrome, it is transmitted in autosomal dominant fashion. Despite the superficial skeletal resemblance, however, the cardiovascular and ocular complications of Marfan's do not seem to occur and therefore differentiation of the two syndromes is important.", "PMID": 444317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6626", "title": "Synovial fat necrosis associated with ischemic pancreatic disease.", "content": "A 59-year-old man with ischemic pancreatic disease, polyarthritis, and cutaneous nodules has shown histopathologic findings indicative of disseminated fat necrosis in a percutaneous biopsy specimen from the right knee. The histopathologic findings in the synovium included necrotic fat cells, distorted fat cells and adjacent lymphocytes, lipid laden histiocytes, and giant cells. In prior histopathologic studies of the joint involvement associated with this disorder, fat cell necrosis has been found only in the periarticular tissues, and the synovium has appeared normal or showed nonspecific inflammation. However, the present study shows that the synovial membrane may also be the site of fat necrosis and an associated inflammatory reaction; thus patients with this disorder may manifest arthritis in addition to periarthritis.", "contents": "Synovial fat necrosis associated with ischemic pancreatic disease. A 59-year-old man with ischemic pancreatic disease, polyarthritis, and cutaneous nodules has shown histopathologic findings indicative of disseminated fat necrosis in a percutaneous biopsy specimen from the right knee. The histopathologic findings in the synovium included necrotic fat cells, distorted fat cells and adjacent lymphocytes, lipid laden histiocytes, and giant cells. In prior histopathologic studies of the joint involvement associated with this disorder, fat cell necrosis has been found only in the periarticular tissues, and the synovium has appeared normal or showed nonspecific inflammation. However, the present study shows that the synovial membrane may also be the site of fat necrosis and an associated inflammatory reaction; thus patients with this disorder may manifest arthritis in addition to periarthritis.", "PMID": 444318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6627", "title": "Fluorescein angiography in the surgical treatment of cerebral ischemic lesions.", "content": "The present paper summarizes our experiences with intraoperative fluorescein angiography in 50 external carotid artery-internal carotid artery bypass operations. This technique has provided precise localization of the ischemic lesion and aided in selecting the sites and direction of the anastomoses to be performed, as well as in checking the patency of the anastomoses and the area supplied by them. A comparison of X-ray angiography with fluorescein angiography indicates the reliability of the latter in the estimation of the area supplied by the anastomosis.", "contents": "Fluorescein angiography in the surgical treatment of cerebral ischemic lesions. The present paper summarizes our experiences with intraoperative fluorescein angiography in 50 external carotid artery-internal carotid artery bypass operations. This technique has provided precise localization of the ischemic lesion and aided in selecting the sites and direction of the anastomoses to be performed, as well as in checking the patency of the anastomoses and the area supplied by them. A comparison of X-ray angiography with fluorescein angiography indicates the reliability of the latter in the estimation of the area supplied by the anastomosis.", "PMID": 444324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6628", "title": "Eosinophilic fasciitis: a clinicopathologic study.", "content": "Eosinophilic fasciitis is a syndrome that is characterized by induration of the skin, peripheral eosinophilia, and a good clinical response to corticosteroid therapy. A skin biopsy specimen from a 69-year-old man who died four months after diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis showed that vessel walls in the fascia were invaded by inflammatory cells; endothelial cell proliferation appeared to lead to obliteration of the lumen. No evidence of internal organ involvement was noted at postmortem examination. These findings suggest that, although cutaneous vasculitis may play a role in this disorder, lack of visceral involvement and generally benign course of the disease dictate conservative therapy.", "contents": "Eosinophilic fasciitis: a clinicopathologic study. Eosinophilic fasciitis is a syndrome that is characterized by induration of the skin, peripheral eosinophilia, and a good clinical response to corticosteroid therapy. A skin biopsy specimen from a 69-year-old man who died four months after diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis showed that vessel walls in the fascia were invaded by inflammatory cells; endothelial cell proliferation appeared to lead to obliteration of the lumen. No evidence of internal organ involvement was noted at postmortem examination. These findings suggest that, although cutaneous vasculitis may play a role in this disorder, lack of visceral involvement and generally benign course of the disease dictate conservative therapy.", "PMID": 444327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6629", "title": "[Activity of postheparin lipoprotein lipase in rabbit blood plasma].", "content": "Activity of lipoprotein lipase was studied in rabbit blood plasma after administration of heparin at a dose 50 un/kg into animals. NaCl was added to incubation mixture at final concentration 1 M to differentiate the enzyme from liver triglyceride lipase. The salt inhibited strongly (sometimes completely) the lipolytic activity in rabbit postheparin blood plasma. These data suggest predominance of lipoprotein lipase, sensitive to NaCl, in total lipolytic activity of rabbit postheparin blood plasma. Only slight alterations in the value of total lipolytic activity and in activity, depending on lipoprotein lipase, were observed in rabbits maintained at high cholesterol diet. Under these conditions distinct increase in activity of triglyceride lipase, stable to NaCl , was not found.", "contents": "[Activity of postheparin lipoprotein lipase in rabbit blood plasma]. Activity of lipoprotein lipase was studied in rabbit blood plasma after administration of heparin at a dose 50 un/kg into animals. NaCl was added to incubation mixture at final concentration 1 M to differentiate the enzyme from liver triglyceride lipase. The salt inhibited strongly (sometimes completely) the lipolytic activity in rabbit postheparin blood plasma. These data suggest predominance of lipoprotein lipase, sensitive to NaCl, in total lipolytic activity of rabbit postheparin blood plasma. Only slight alterations in the value of total lipolytic activity and in activity, depending on lipoprotein lipase, were observed in rabbits maintained at high cholesterol diet. Under these conditions distinct increase in activity of triglyceride lipase, stable to NaCl , was not found.", "PMID": 444323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6630", "title": "Hepatomegaly due to self-induced hyperinsulinism.", "content": "Repeated hypoglycaemic attacks, associated with transient hepatomegaly, in a 12-year-old insulin-dependent diabetic girl continued despite reduction in dose and, later, complete discontinuance of insulin. The attacks ceased while she was in hospital, necessitating reinstitution of insulin. The hepatomegaly resolved when surreptitious additional insulin injections were discovered and stopped. Hepatomegaly in diabetics should arouse suspicion of overdosage with insulin.", "contents": "Hepatomegaly due to self-induced hyperinsulinism. Repeated hypoglycaemic attacks, associated with transient hepatomegaly, in a 12-year-old insulin-dependent diabetic girl continued despite reduction in dose and, later, complete discontinuance of insulin. The attacks ceased while she was in hospital, necessitating reinstitution of insulin. The hepatomegaly resolved when surreptitious additional insulin injections were discovered and stopped. Hepatomegaly in diabetics should arouse suspicion of overdosage with insulin.", "PMID": 444328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6631", "title": "[The ultrastructural study of choroid plexus papillomas (author's transl)].", "content": "Four cases of choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) obtained at the time of surgical excision were examined by light and electron microscopy and compared with normal choroid plexus (CP) of mouse and chick. Ultrastructurally CPPs were the same as CP except in the following two points: In CCPs 1) pinocytotic vesicles of the vascular endothelium and 2) cytoplasmic filaments were more increased in number than in CP. In one case, which showed malignant changes in some parts, we found prominently increased spot desmosomes and cytoplasmic filaments as compared with other three cases, microcysts at the apical portion with other features suggesting the secretory process except for the absence of basal infoldings and myelin bodies. As for the apical tight junction fusion of the two outer-leaflets of the adjacent cytoplasmic membrane was observed as in CP. This fact suggests that there is a blood-CSF barrier also in CPPs as in CP.", "contents": "[The ultrastructural study of choroid plexus papillomas (author's transl)]. Four cases of choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) obtained at the time of surgical excision were examined by light and electron microscopy and compared with normal choroid plexus (CP) of mouse and chick. Ultrastructurally CPPs were the same as CP except in the following two points: In CCPs 1) pinocytotic vesicles of the vascular endothelium and 2) cytoplasmic filaments were more increased in number than in CP. In one case, which showed malignant changes in some parts, we found prominently increased spot desmosomes and cytoplasmic filaments as compared with other three cases, microcysts at the apical portion with other features suggesting the secretory process except for the absence of basal infoldings and myelin bodies. As for the apical tight junction fusion of the two outer-leaflets of the adjacent cytoplasmic membrane was observed as in CP. This fact suggests that there is a blood-CSF barrier also in CPPs as in CP.", "PMID": 444333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6632", "title": "[A case of \"ping-pong ball eye movement (author's transl)].", "content": "We experienced a rare and peculiar eye movement in a comatose patient with ruptured intracranial aneurysm. The patient's eyes moved quickly and irregulary from one extreme position to the other with whirling and bounding components. Such abnormal eye movement occasionally halted, but abruptly reappeared. We named this abnormal eye movement which had never been reported before, \"ping-pong eye movement\". Neuropathological study revealed a subarachnoid hemorrhage and the diffuse infarction in the right remporal lobe, and a smal clot in the fourth ventricle without specific findings in the brainstem and the cerebellum. Consideration was made that the hemorrhage in the fourth ventricle resulted in a hyper-irritable state in the fastigial nuclei, from which the abnormal discharges were driven to the reticular formation, the vestibular nuclei, the MLF, and the oculomotor complexes. We conclude that this \"ping-pong\" ball eye movement\" might be the appearance of epilepsy in the eyes, due to the epileptogenic focus of the fastigial nuclei.", "contents": "[A case of \"ping-pong ball eye movement (author's transl)]. We experienced a rare and peculiar eye movement in a comatose patient with ruptured intracranial aneurysm. The patient's eyes moved quickly and irregulary from one extreme position to the other with whirling and bounding components. Such abnormal eye movement occasionally halted, but abruptly reappeared. We named this abnormal eye movement which had never been reported before, \"ping-pong eye movement\". Neuropathological study revealed a subarachnoid hemorrhage and the diffuse infarction in the right remporal lobe, and a smal clot in the fourth ventricle without specific findings in the brainstem and the cerebellum. Consideration was made that the hemorrhage in the fourth ventricle resulted in a hyper-irritable state in the fastigial nuclei, from which the abnormal discharges were driven to the reticular formation, the vestibular nuclei, the MLF, and the oculomotor complexes. We conclude that this \"ping-pong\" ball eye movement\" might be the appearance of epilepsy in the eyes, due to the epileptogenic focus of the fastigial nuclei.", "PMID": 444337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6633", "title": "Measurement of the relative contributions of rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm to tidal breathing in man.", "content": "A simple mathematical model of the chest wall was constructed so that during tidal breathing the relative volume contributions of the rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm could be measured in man, using four mercury-in-rubber strain gauges around the trunk. From the dimensions of the trunk and the change in circumference determined by the four gauges, the separate contributions of rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm could be determined using a purpose-built analog computer. The system was evaluated in 13 laboratory personnel, and in 13 other subjects before and after anaesthesia. There was a linear relationship between tidal volumes computed and measured at the mouth, over the residual volume to (FRC + 1 litre) range, with an error of +/- 8%. The relative contribution of rib cage to tidal breathing showed a large scatter from 5 to 42% with a non-significant tendency to decrease with age.", "contents": "Measurement of the relative contributions of rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm to tidal breathing in man. A simple mathematical model of the chest wall was constructed so that during tidal breathing the relative volume contributions of the rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm could be measured in man, using four mercury-in-rubber strain gauges around the trunk. From the dimensions of the trunk and the change in circumference determined by the four gauges, the separate contributions of rib cage and abdomen/diaphragm could be determined using a purpose-built analog computer. The system was evaluated in 13 laboratory personnel, and in 13 other subjects before and after anaesthesia. There was a linear relationship between tidal volumes computed and measured at the mouth, over the residual volume to (FRC + 1 litre) range, with an error of +/- 8%. The relative contribution of rib cage to tidal breathing showed a large scatter from 5 to 42% with a non-significant tendency to decrease with age.", "PMID": 444340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6634", "title": "Regional blood flow in normovolaemic and hypovolaemic haemodilution. An experimental study.", "content": "The effects on the circulation of limited normovolaemic haemodilution with dextran 70 and subsequent haemorrhage to a mean arterial pressure of 60 mm Hg were studied with isotope-labelled microspheres in the dog. Following haemodilution, cardiac output, stroke volume and systemic oxygen transport increased. The distribution of oxygen to the heart, liver (hepatic artery), spleen and carcass (mainly muscle, skeleton and skin) was increased, while a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain was found. Following haemodilution and haemorrhage, cardiac output, systemic oxygen transport and mixed venous oxygen tension decreased. Blood flow was redistributed to maintain the cerebral, renal, hepatic arterial and coronary circulations, mainly at the expense of blood flow to the carcass and through systemic arterio-venous shunts. Thus, limited normovolaemic haemodilution does not affect the normal circulatory response to moderate haemorrhagic hypotension.", "contents": "Regional blood flow in normovolaemic and hypovolaemic haemodilution. An experimental study. The effects on the circulation of limited normovolaemic haemodilution with dextran 70 and subsequent haemorrhage to a mean arterial pressure of 60 mm Hg were studied with isotope-labelled microspheres in the dog. Following haemodilution, cardiac output, stroke volume and systemic oxygen transport increased. The distribution of oxygen to the heart, liver (hepatic artery), spleen and carcass (mainly muscle, skeleton and skin) was increased, while a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain was found. Following haemodilution and haemorrhage, cardiac output, systemic oxygen transport and mixed venous oxygen tension decreased. Blood flow was redistributed to maintain the cerebral, renal, hepatic arterial and coronary circulations, mainly at the expense of blood flow to the carcass and through systemic arterio-venous shunts. Thus, limited normovolaemic haemodilution does not affect the normal circulatory response to moderate haemorrhagic hypotension.", "PMID": 444342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6635", "title": "Acute and subchronic neuromuscular blocking characteristics of streptomycin: a comparison with neomycin.", "content": "The characteristics of the neuromuscular block produced by streptomycin in vivo were studied on the sciatic-tibialis anterior nerve-muscle preparation of eight anaesthetized cats. The lungs of the animals were ventilated mechanically and normocarbia was maintained. During acute exposure to streptomycin (within 2 h), ED50 for blockade of the twitch was 56 (SEM +/- 5) mg kg-1 of the base. The characteristics of block were similar to those of neomycin-induced block in some aspects. There was absence of train-of-four fade and tetanic fade, partial sparing of the responses elicited at 10 Hz and 20 Hz, and total sparing of the 50 Hz tetanus, as well as the post-tetanic twitch. In contrast to neomycin-induced neuromuscular block, however, post-tetanic exhaustion was not observed and prolonged exposure to streptomycin (22-28 h) did not change the characteristics of the block. We conclude that, despite their chemical similarities, streptomycin and neomycin block neuromuscular transmission differently.", "contents": "Acute and subchronic neuromuscular blocking characteristics of streptomycin: a comparison with neomycin. The characteristics of the neuromuscular block produced by streptomycin in vivo were studied on the sciatic-tibialis anterior nerve-muscle preparation of eight anaesthetized cats. The lungs of the animals were ventilated mechanically and normocarbia was maintained. During acute exposure to streptomycin (within 2 h), ED50 for blockade of the twitch was 56 (SEM +/- 5) mg kg-1 of the base. The characteristics of block were similar to those of neomycin-induced block in some aspects. There was absence of train-of-four fade and tetanic fade, partial sparing of the responses elicited at 10 Hz and 20 Hz, and total sparing of the 50 Hz tetanus, as well as the post-tetanic twitch. In contrast to neomycin-induced neuromuscular block, however, post-tetanic exhaustion was not observed and prolonged exposure to streptomycin (22-28 h) did not change the characteristics of the block. We conclude that, despite their chemical similarities, streptomycin and neomycin block neuromuscular transmission differently.", "PMID": 444343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6636", "title": "Effects of ageing on the pharmacokinetics of pancuronium.", "content": "The effects of age on the pharmacokinetics of pancuronium were investigated. The distribution volume of pancuronium did not appear to be age-dependent, but elimination of the drug decreased with increasing age. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.", "contents": "Effects of ageing on the pharmacokinetics of pancuronium. The effects of age on the pharmacokinetics of pancuronium were investigated. The distribution volume of pancuronium did not appear to be age-dependent, but elimination of the drug decreased with increasing age. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.", "PMID": 444344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6637", "title": "Prevention of suxamethonium-induced changes in serum potassium concentration by hexafluorenium. Is their combined use justified?", "content": "Sixty patients, none of whom was suffering from renal failure, received neurolept anaesthesia. They were divided into six groups of 10 patients each. Groups I and IV, II and V, and III and VI were given suxamethonium 0.2, 0.6 and 1.0 mg kg-1 respectively. Groups IV-VI were pretreated with hexafluorenium 0.3 mg kg-1. The serum potassium concentration decreased significantly after the induction of anaesthesia and also following the administration of hexafluorenium. Neither suxamethonium 0.2 mg nor 0.6 mg kg-1 with or without hexafluorenium restored the potassium concentration to the control value. Suxamethonium 1.0 mg kg-1 alone caused the serum potassium to increase to values greater than control; hexafluorenium attenuated this effect. The combination of hexafluorenium and suxamethonium may be of benefit in patients who are anephric or are in chronic renal failure.", "contents": "Prevention of suxamethonium-induced changes in serum potassium concentration by hexafluorenium. Is their combined use justified? Sixty patients, none of whom was suffering from renal failure, received neurolept anaesthesia. They were divided into six groups of 10 patients each. Groups I and IV, II and V, and III and VI were given suxamethonium 0.2, 0.6 and 1.0 mg kg-1 respectively. Groups IV-VI were pretreated with hexafluorenium 0.3 mg kg-1. The serum potassium concentration decreased significantly after the induction of anaesthesia and also following the administration of hexafluorenium. Neither suxamethonium 0.2 mg nor 0.6 mg kg-1 with or without hexafluorenium restored the potassium concentration to the control value. Suxamethonium 1.0 mg kg-1 alone caused the serum potassium to increase to values greater than control; hexafluorenium attenuated this effect. The combination of hexafluorenium and suxamethonium may be of benefit in patients who are anephric or are in chronic renal failure.", "PMID": 444345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6638", "title": "Morbidity of day-case gynaecological surgery. A comparison of thiopentone and Althesin.", "content": "To compare two anaesthetic techniques, morbidity following day-case gynaecological surgery in 170 patients was assessed by means of a questionnaire at the time of leaving hospital. A further questionnaire sought information for the evening of the operation, and the 1st and 2nd days after operation. Ninety-four per cent of patients returned the latter questionnaire. There was a high frequency of morbidity extending into the 2nd day after operation. An anaesthetic technique using Althesin and nitrous oxide in oxygen offered no advantage over a technique with thiopentone and nitrous oxide in oxygen and halothane.", "contents": "Morbidity of day-case gynaecological surgery. A comparison of thiopentone and Althesin. To compare two anaesthetic techniques, morbidity following day-case gynaecological surgery in 170 patients was assessed by means of a questionnaire at the time of leaving hospital. A further questionnaire sought information for the evening of the operation, and the 1st and 2nd days after operation. Ninety-four per cent of patients returned the latter questionnaire. There was a high frequency of morbidity extending into the 2nd day after operation. An anaesthetic technique using Althesin and nitrous oxide in oxygen offered no advantage over a technique with thiopentone and nitrous oxide in oxygen and halothane.", "PMID": 444346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6639", "title": "Haemoptysis following insertion of a Swan-Ganz catheter.", "content": "Haemoptysis occurred in a patient in whom a Swan-Ganz catheter was inserted for the induction of anaesthesia for hemicolectomy. It is suggested that acute pulmonary hypertension, superimposed on existing chronic pulmonary hypertension, superimposed on existing chronic pulmonary hypertension associated with mitral stenosis, was an important aetiological factor in the haemoptysis.", "contents": "Haemoptysis following insertion of a Swan-Ganz catheter. Haemoptysis occurred in a patient in whom a Swan-Ganz catheter was inserted for the induction of anaesthesia for hemicolectomy. It is suggested that acute pulmonary hypertension, superimposed on existing chronic pulmonary hypertension, superimposed on existing chronic pulmonary hypertension associated with mitral stenosis, was an important aetiological factor in the haemoptysis.", "PMID": 444347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6640", "title": "Congenital fibro-osseous dysplasia of jaws (\"hippopotamus face\"). An anaesthetic problem.", "content": "Two brothers with \"hippopotamus face\" deformities presented for corrective surgery under general anaesthesia. In the first patient, blind nasal intubation was successful. In the second patient, tracheotomy was avoided by the use of an intubating bronchoscope.", "contents": "Congenital fibro-osseous dysplasia of jaws (\"hippopotamus face\"). An anaesthetic problem. Two brothers with \"hippopotamus face\" deformities presented for corrective surgery under general anaesthesia. In the first patient, blind nasal intubation was successful. In the second patient, tracheotomy was avoided by the use of an intubating bronchoscope.", "PMID": 444348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6641", "title": "Kinetics of fluphenazine after fluphenazine dihydrochloride, enanthate and decanoate administration to man.", "content": "1 Fluphenazine (1,2-ethanol 14C) was administered to seven human subjects as the dihydrochloride and as the enanthate and decanoate esters. 2 The subjects had previously been treated with fluphenazine injections for at least 6 months. 3 Fluphenazine was separated from its radioactive metabolites by selective solvent extraction. Plasma concentrations were measured for up to 21 days after dosing. 4 The preparations showed differences in peak concentrations, times of the peaks and half-times of the elimination phase. The longest half-times occurred with the decanoate and the shortest with the dihydrochloride. 5 It is postulated that the differences in kinetics relate principally to the release of the compound from the site of injection. 6 There was no evidence for presence of the esters in plasma, urine or faeces.", "contents": "Kinetics of fluphenazine after fluphenazine dihydrochloride, enanthate and decanoate administration to man. 1 Fluphenazine (1,2-ethanol 14C) was administered to seven human subjects as the dihydrochloride and as the enanthate and decanoate esters. 2 The subjects had previously been treated with fluphenazine injections for at least 6 months. 3 Fluphenazine was separated from its radioactive metabolites by selective solvent extraction. Plasma concentrations were measured for up to 21 days after dosing. 4 The preparations showed differences in peak concentrations, times of the peaks and half-times of the elimination phase. The longest half-times occurred with the decanoate and the shortest with the dihydrochloride. 5 It is postulated that the differences in kinetics relate principally to the release of the compound from the site of injection. 6 There was no evidence for presence of the esters in plasma, urine or faeces.", "PMID": 444352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6642", "title": "Specific radioimmunoassay of amitriptyline and nortriptyline.", "content": "1 Antisera to nortriptyline were prepared by immunizing rabbits with N-succinylnortriptyline--bovine serum albumin conjugate. 2 A sensitive radioimmunoassay has been developed for the tricyclic antidepressants amitriptyline and nortriptyline. 3 amitriptyline and nortriptyline are separated from each other and from interfering metabolites before assay. 4 Using [3H]-imipramine and [3H]-succinylnortriptyline as tracers the radioimmunoassay can measure amitriptyline and nortriptyline levels down to 2--3 ng/ml using 0.05 ml plasma sample. 5 Agreement between the radioimmunoassay and a gas-chromatographic assay was excellent for both amitriptyline and nortriptyline.", "contents": "Specific radioimmunoassay of amitriptyline and nortriptyline. 1 Antisera to nortriptyline were prepared by immunizing rabbits with N-succinylnortriptyline--bovine serum albumin conjugate. 2 A sensitive radioimmunoassay has been developed for the tricyclic antidepressants amitriptyline and nortriptyline. 3 amitriptyline and nortriptyline are separated from each other and from interfering metabolites before assay. 4 Using [3H]-imipramine and [3H]-succinylnortriptyline as tracers the radioimmunoassay can measure amitriptyline and nortriptyline levels down to 2--3 ng/ml using 0.05 ml plasma sample. 5 Agreement between the radioimmunoassay and a gas-chromatographic assay was excellent for both amitriptyline and nortriptyline.", "PMID": 444353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6643", "title": "Plasma cinnarizine levels resulting from oral administration as capsule or tablet formulation investigated by gas-liquid chromatography.", "content": "1 A gas chromatographic assay for the estimation of therapeutic concentrations of cinnarizine in plasma is described. 2 Cinnarizine (75 mg) was administered orally to twelve healthy subjects in the form of capsules and tablets on two separate occasions. No difference was found in the plasma levels or absorption of cinnarizine from these formulations. 3 The mean plasma elimination half-life of cinnarizine was 3.24 h.", "contents": "Plasma cinnarizine levels resulting from oral administration as capsule or tablet formulation investigated by gas-liquid chromatography. 1 A gas chromatographic assay for the estimation of therapeutic concentrations of cinnarizine in plasma is described. 2 Cinnarizine (75 mg) was administered orally to twelve healthy subjects in the form of capsules and tablets on two separate occasions. No difference was found in the plasma levels or absorption of cinnarizine from these formulations. 3 The mean plasma elimination half-life of cinnarizine was 3.24 h.", "PMID": 444354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6644", "title": "A comparison of some extra-renal effects of spironolactone and canrenone.", "content": "1 Measurement of changes in trans-mural rectal potential difference (t.m.r.p.d.) and plasma aldosterone levels have been used in a comparison of the extra-renal activities of spironolactone and its major metabolite canrenone. 2 A characteristic pressure artifact was observed during measurement of t.m.r.p.d. When pressure artifacts were eliminated, there was a log-linear relationship between increasing doses of intravenous aldosterone and maximum increase in t.m.r.p.d. 3 Pre-treatment for 5 days with spironolactone or canrenone produced a similar attenuation of the increase in t.m.r.p.d. produced by infused aldosterone, suggesting that canrenone is the active metabolite of spironolactone in the rectum. This is in contrast to the significantly greater renal activity of spironolactone that has been demonstrated after a similar treatment period. Neither antagonist treatment produced significant changes in pre-infusion plasma aldosterone concentrations. 4 The need for assay of the extra-renal activities of aldosterone antagonists in the assessment of their therapeutic potential is discussed.", "contents": "A comparison of some extra-renal effects of spironolactone and canrenone. 1 Measurement of changes in trans-mural rectal potential difference (t.m.r.p.d.) and plasma aldosterone levels have been used in a comparison of the extra-renal activities of spironolactone and its major metabolite canrenone. 2 A characteristic pressure artifact was observed during measurement of t.m.r.p.d. When pressure artifacts were eliminated, there was a log-linear relationship between increasing doses of intravenous aldosterone and maximum increase in t.m.r.p.d. 3 Pre-treatment for 5 days with spironolactone or canrenone produced a similar attenuation of the increase in t.m.r.p.d. produced by infused aldosterone, suggesting that canrenone is the active metabolite of spironolactone in the rectum. This is in contrast to the significantly greater renal activity of spironolactone that has been demonstrated after a similar treatment period. Neither antagonist treatment produced significant changes in pre-infusion plasma aldosterone concentrations. 4 The need for assay of the extra-renal activities of aldosterone antagonists in the assessment of their therapeutic potential is discussed.", "PMID": 444357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6645", "title": "Pituitary tumours during pregnancy in mothers treated with bromocriptine.", "content": "1 Out of 805 previously infertile women in whom pregnancy was achieved on bromocriptine treatment, 137 were diagnosed as having pituitary tumours. 2 In nine of these, tumour-related complications occurred during pregnancy, chiefly visual field impairment. Surgical intervention was considered necessary in two patients. In a third patient reinstitution of bromocriptine produced remission of symptoms. 3 Although the frequency of serious complications was low, the present state of knowledge indicates that surgery or irradiation of pituitary tumours should be preferred, at least as the first line of treatment, for patients contemplating pregnancy.", "contents": "Pituitary tumours during pregnancy in mothers treated with bromocriptine. 1 Out of 805 previously infertile women in whom pregnancy was achieved on bromocriptine treatment, 137 were diagnosed as having pituitary tumours. 2 In nine of these, tumour-related complications occurred during pregnancy, chiefly visual field impairment. Surgical intervention was considered necessary in two patients. In a third patient reinstitution of bromocriptine produced remission of symptoms. 3 Although the frequency of serious complications was low, the present state of knowledge indicates that surgery or irradiation of pituitary tumours should be preferred, at least as the first line of treatment, for patients contemplating pregnancy.", "PMID": 444358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6646", "title": "Concurrent administration of antacids and prednisone: effect on serum levels of prednisolone.", "content": "1 Specific radioimmunoassays have been developed for the measurement of prednisolone and prednisone in serum. 2 Serum prednisolone levels have been measured following the administration of prednisone both with and without antacids. 3 There were no significant differences in the values of Cmax (mean +/- s.d.) (251 +/- 80 ng/ml with, 245 +/- 69 ng/ml without antacid), AUC (1430 +/- 469 ng ml-1 h-1 with, 1406 +/- 530 ng ml-1 h-1 without antacid) or Tmax (1.6 +/- 0.6 h with, 1.6 +/- 0.8 h without antacid). 4 Serum prednisone levels were less than 20% of prednisolone levels at all time intervals in the subjects studied. 5 Concurrent antacid administration has no significant effect on serum prednisolone levels attained.", "contents": "Concurrent administration of antacids and prednisone: effect on serum levels of prednisolone. 1 Specific radioimmunoassays have been developed for the measurement of prednisolone and prednisone in serum. 2 Serum prednisolone levels have been measured following the administration of prednisone both with and without antacids. 3 There were no significant differences in the values of Cmax (mean +/- s.d.) (251 +/- 80 ng/ml with, 245 +/- 69 ng/ml without antacid), AUC (1430 +/- 469 ng ml-1 h-1 with, 1406 +/- 530 ng ml-1 h-1 without antacid) or Tmax (1.6 +/- 0.6 h with, 1.6 +/- 0.8 h without antacid). 4 Serum prednisone levels were less than 20% of prednisolone levels at all time intervals in the subjects studied. 5 Concurrent antacid administration has no significant effect on serum prednisolone levels attained.", "PMID": 444359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6647", "title": "Biological activities of dihydrodiols derived from two polycyclic hydrocarbons in rodent test systems.", "content": "Comparisons have been made between (a) the initiation of tumours in mouse skin, (b) the induction of hyperplasia and the suppression of sebaceous glands in mouse skin and (c) the induction of s.c. tumours in rats, by either benzo[a]pyrene or 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene and their related K-region and non-K-region dihydrodiols. Whilst the 3,4-dihydrodiol derived from 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene is more active than the hydrocarbon in initiating tumours in mouse skin (subsequently promoted by a phorbol ester) the 7,8-dihydrodiol of benzo[a]pyrene is very much less active than benzo[a]pyrene itself in the induction of hyperplasia or the suppression of sebaceous glands in mouse skin or in the induction of s.c. sarcomas in rats. Since much other evidence suggests that the 3,4-dihydrodiol of 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene and the 7,8-dihydrodiol of benzo[a]pyrene are the dihydrodiols involved, via the related vicinal diol-epoxides, in the metabolic activation of these hydrocarbons, mouse skin initiation-promotion experiments may be more useful for the identification of such diols than the other two in vivo tests for biological activity used here.", "contents": "Biological activities of dihydrodiols derived from two polycyclic hydrocarbons in rodent test systems. Comparisons have been made between (a) the initiation of tumours in mouse skin, (b) the induction of hyperplasia and the suppression of sebaceous glands in mouse skin and (c) the induction of s.c. tumours in rats, by either benzo[a]pyrene or 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene and their related K-region and non-K-region dihydrodiols. Whilst the 3,4-dihydrodiol derived from 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene is more active than the hydrocarbon in initiating tumours in mouse skin (subsequently promoted by a phorbol ester) the 7,8-dihydrodiol of benzo[a]pyrene is very much less active than benzo[a]pyrene itself in the induction of hyperplasia or the suppression of sebaceous glands in mouse skin or in the induction of s.c. sarcomas in rats. Since much other evidence suggests that the 3,4-dihydrodiol of 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene and the 7,8-dihydrodiol of benzo[a]pyrene are the dihydrodiols involved, via the related vicinal diol-epoxides, in the metabolic activation of these hydrocarbons, mouse skin initiation-promotion experiments may be more useful for the identification of such diols than the other two in vivo tests for biological activity used here.", "PMID": 444395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6648", "title": "DNA fragmentation in some organs of rats and mice treated with cycasin.", "content": "Cycasin (methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glucoside) is carcinogenic in several animal species. It produces a variety of malignant tumours, mainly in the liver of mice, and in the liver, kidney and large intestine in rats. It does not appear to be mutagenic in the Ames test, even in the presence of liver microsome fraction, and it is among those carcinogens (less than 10%) ranked as \"false negatives\" in this test. The ability of cycasin to damage in vivo liver, kidney, lung and colonic DNA of Wistar rats and C57BL/L mice was investigated by means of alkaline elution technique. Oral single-dose administration of cycasin, in the range of 50-400 mg/kg body weight, produced in the rat a clearly evident dose-dependent DNA fragmentation in the liver, and less marked damage to DNA from kidney and colon mucosa. In mice, the same treatment produced dose-dependent DNA damage only in the liver. DNA repair up to 18 h appeared to be incomplete both in mice and rats. Methylazoxymethanol acetate is considered to be an active form of cycasin. While in vivo methylazoxymethanol acetate caused DNA damage, in vitro it appeared inactive and required metabolic activation, possibly consisting in its hydrolysis by esterase activity, to be able to cause DNA fragmentation.", "contents": "DNA fragmentation in some organs of rats and mice treated with cycasin. Cycasin (methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glucoside) is carcinogenic in several animal species. It produces a variety of malignant tumours, mainly in the liver of mice, and in the liver, kidney and large intestine in rats. It does not appear to be mutagenic in the Ames test, even in the presence of liver microsome fraction, and it is among those carcinogens (less than 10%) ranked as \"false negatives\" in this test. The ability of cycasin to damage in vivo liver, kidney, lung and colonic DNA of Wistar rats and C57BL/L mice was investigated by means of alkaline elution technique. Oral single-dose administration of cycasin, in the range of 50-400 mg/kg body weight, produced in the rat a clearly evident dose-dependent DNA fragmentation in the liver, and less marked damage to DNA from kidney and colon mucosa. In mice, the same treatment produced dose-dependent DNA damage only in the liver. DNA repair up to 18 h appeared to be incomplete both in mice and rats. Methylazoxymethanol acetate is considered to be an active form of cycasin. While in vivo methylazoxymethanol acetate caused DNA damage, in vitro it appeared inactive and required metabolic activation, possibly consisting in its hydrolysis by esterase activity, to be able to cause DNA fragmentation.", "PMID": 444396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6649", "title": "Cell-cycle inhibitory effects of the mitotic inhibitor NY 3170 on human cells in vitro.", "content": "Effects of the mitotic inhibitor NY 3170 (1-propargyl-5-chloropyrimidin-2-one) on cell-cycle kinetics of NHIK 3025 cells were studied by means of time-lapse microcinematography, pulsed incorporation of [3H] thymidine, flow cytometry, and mitotic index. All the experiments were performed with cells synchronized by mitotic selection. Mitotic inhibition as well as inhibition in interphase was examined. The small fraction of cells able to escape mitotic arrest at 0.2mM NY 3170 had spent about 12 h in metaphase. The metaphase block was complete at 0.3 mM. For comparison, complete metaphase arrest of NHIK 3025 cells was reached at 8 mM after treatment with the parent substance NY 3000 (5-chloropyrimidin-2-one, previously reported). At 0.3mM NY 3170 interphase was also considerably prolonged. All stages of interphase were prolonged, in contrast to the interphase prolongation after treatment with high concentrations of the mitotic inhibitors vincristine and vinblastine, which occurs in G2. It was shown that the presence of NY 3170 during mitosis is a necessary and sufficient condition for metaphase arrest, thus demonstrating that metaphase arrest is not dependent on some preceding event in interphase.", "contents": "Cell-cycle inhibitory effects of the mitotic inhibitor NY 3170 on human cells in vitro. Effects of the mitotic inhibitor NY 3170 (1-propargyl-5-chloropyrimidin-2-one) on cell-cycle kinetics of NHIK 3025 cells were studied by means of time-lapse microcinematography, pulsed incorporation of [3H] thymidine, flow cytometry, and mitotic index. All the experiments were performed with cells synchronized by mitotic selection. Mitotic inhibition as well as inhibition in interphase was examined. The small fraction of cells able to escape mitotic arrest at 0.2mM NY 3170 had spent about 12 h in metaphase. The metaphase block was complete at 0.3 mM. For comparison, complete metaphase arrest of NHIK 3025 cells was reached at 8 mM after treatment with the parent substance NY 3000 (5-chloropyrimidin-2-one, previously reported). At 0.3mM NY 3170 interphase was also considerably prolonged. All stages of interphase were prolonged, in contrast to the interphase prolongation after treatment with high concentrations of the mitotic inhibitors vincristine and vinblastine, which occurs in G2. It was shown that the presence of NY 3170 during mitosis is a necessary and sufficient condition for metaphase arrest, thus demonstrating that metaphase arrest is not dependent on some preceding event in interphase.", "PMID": 444397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6650", "title": "Distribution and tumour cytotoxicity of the radiosensitizer misonidazole (Ro-07-0582) in C57 mice.", "content": "The distribution and clearance of misonidazole (MIS = Ro-07-0582) were studied in C57 mouse tissues and in transplants of Lewis lung tumour. The half life of the drug in blood after a dose of 1 mg/g i.p. was 3 h. Some tissues, such as liver, were found to have consistently low MIS levels, and this was found to be due to degradation of the drug after removal of the tissues from the host. The in vivo cytotoxicity of MIS to Lewis lung tumour cells was studied using an in-vitro colony assay. After half of the tumours had been irradiated with 10 Gy to kill most of the oxic cells, the mice received i.p. injections of MIS. To simulate the longer drug exposure of human tumour cells (due to the longer half life in man) a repeated injection regime was used in some mice. There was no significant cell kill after a single dose, but with a prolonged exposure to the drug in the multiply injected animals, cell survival was reduced to 50% of control in both the irradiated and unirradiated tumours. Since the hypoxic fraction of the unirradiated tumour is probably not more than 30%, it would appear that MIS is not selectively cytotoxic to hypoxic cells. However, MIS had a much greater cytotoxic effect upon hypoxic Lewis lung tumour cells in vitro, with very little or no effect on cells grown in air. This would support the theory that the presence of hypoxic cells is essential for the expression of MIS cytotoxicity.", "contents": "Distribution and tumour cytotoxicity of the radiosensitizer misonidazole (Ro-07-0582) in C57 mice. The distribution and clearance of misonidazole (MIS = Ro-07-0582) were studied in C57 mouse tissues and in transplants of Lewis lung tumour. The half life of the drug in blood after a dose of 1 mg/g i.p. was 3 h. Some tissues, such as liver, were found to have consistently low MIS levels, and this was found to be due to degradation of the drug after removal of the tissues from the host. The in vivo cytotoxicity of MIS to Lewis lung tumour cells was studied using an in-vitro colony assay. After half of the tumours had been irradiated with 10 Gy to kill most of the oxic cells, the mice received i.p. injections of MIS. To simulate the longer drug exposure of human tumour cells (due to the longer half life in man) a repeated injection regime was used in some mice. There was no significant cell kill after a single dose, but with a prolonged exposure to the drug in the multiply injected animals, cell survival was reduced to 50% of control in both the irradiated and unirradiated tumours. Since the hypoxic fraction of the unirradiated tumour is probably not more than 30%, it would appear that MIS is not selectively cytotoxic to hypoxic cells. However, MIS had a much greater cytotoxic effect upon hypoxic Lewis lung tumour cells in vitro, with very little or no effect on cells grown in air. This would support the theory that the presence of hypoxic cells is essential for the expression of MIS cytotoxicity.", "PMID": 444398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6651", "title": "Lack of effect of immunotherapy with BCG and Corynebacterium parvum on hepatic drug hydroxylation in man.", "content": "Serial serum diphenylhydantoin and urinary 5-(p-hydroxphenyl)-5-phenylhydantoin concentrations were determined in 8 patients with malignant disease and 4 healthy volunteers on 2 separate occasions after an oral dose of diphenylhydantoin (500 mg). No significant difference was observed between metabolism before and 10 days after immunization with BCG or Corynebacterium parvum. Volunteers without intervening immunization similarly showed no difference.", "contents": "Lack of effect of immunotherapy with BCG and Corynebacterium parvum on hepatic drug hydroxylation in man. Serial serum diphenylhydantoin and urinary 5-(p-hydroxphenyl)-5-phenylhydantoin concentrations were determined in 8 patients with malignant disease and 4 healthy volunteers on 2 separate occasions after an oral dose of diphenylhydantoin (500 mg). No significant difference was observed between metabolism before and 10 days after immunization with BCG or Corynebacterium parvum. Volunteers without intervening immunization similarly showed no difference.", "PMID": 444399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6652", "title": "Microenvironmental arginine depletion by macrophages in vivo.", "content": "Since the tumour-selective cytotoxic activity of activated macrophages in vitro can be attributed to depletion of the culture medium of L-arginine by macrophage arginase, a series of experiments was designed to determine whether such a mechanism could operate in vivo. Extracellular fluid obtained from Gullino chambers within established tumours contained high levels of arginase, no detectable arginine and high levels of ornithine. When tumours were disaggregated into single-cell suspensions, arginase was readily detected within tumour macrophages but not within malignant cells. Inflammatory ascites induced in mice by Corynebacterium parvum was rich in arginase, depleted of L-arginine and cytotoxic in vitro to L5178Y and V79 cells. High levels of arginase in the ascites fluid were associated with resistance to challenge with syngeneic L5178Y cells. Lymph collected from the cisterna chyli in rats bearing a macrophage-rich sarcoma on the small bowel contained elevated levels of arginase, was depleted of arginine and contained increased concentrations of ornithine. We conclude that in sites of macrophage infiltration there is microenvironmental arginine depletion due to the action of arginase, and that arginase release could represent an important macrophage effector mechanism against a variety of targets, including malignant cells, virus-infected cells, fungi and parasites.", "contents": "Microenvironmental arginine depletion by macrophages in vivo. Since the tumour-selective cytotoxic activity of activated macrophages in vitro can be attributed to depletion of the culture medium of L-arginine by macrophage arginase, a series of experiments was designed to determine whether such a mechanism could operate in vivo. Extracellular fluid obtained from Gullino chambers within established tumours contained high levels of arginase, no detectable arginine and high levels of ornithine. When tumours were disaggregated into single-cell suspensions, arginase was readily detected within tumour macrophages but not within malignant cells. Inflammatory ascites induced in mice by Corynebacterium parvum was rich in arginase, depleted of L-arginine and cytotoxic in vitro to L5178Y and V79 cells. High levels of arginase in the ascites fluid were associated with resistance to challenge with syngeneic L5178Y cells. Lymph collected from the cisterna chyli in rats bearing a macrophage-rich sarcoma on the small bowel contained elevated levels of arginase, was depleted of arginine and contained increased concentrations of ornithine. We conclude that in sites of macrophage infiltration there is microenvironmental arginine depletion due to the action of arginase, and that arginase release could represent an important macrophage effector mechanism against a variety of targets, including malignant cells, virus-infected cells, fungi and parasites.", "PMID": 444403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6653", "title": "Effects of carrageenan, PVP and tumour-bearer serum on immunity induced by excision or mitomycin C-treated tumour cells in mice.", "content": "Carrageenan (Cg) was tested for its effects on the growth of, and immunity to, 2 methylcholanthrene-induced syngeneic murine fibrosarcomas (H1 and H2). The tumours were found not to share major tumour-specific transplantation antigens. H2 appeared more immunogenic than H1. In contrast to H1, immunity induced by H2 was not affected by Cg, nor was its growth in Cg-treated normal mice augmented.Postoperative i.p. injections of Cg abolished the weak anti-H1 immunity produced by H1 tumour excision. Furthermore, the subsequent growth of the H1 tumour challenge in the Cg-treated immune mice was significantly greater than the augmented growth in Cg-treated normal mice. The Prior administration of the macrophage-stabilizing agent polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to immune mice significantly reduced the augmenting effect of Cg. The growth-promoting effect of Cg on a secondary H1 tumour challenge in mice immunized by tumour excision was abolished by 10(6) MCT-H1 cells injected s.c. before Cg. In contrast to the immunity induced by tumour excision, Cg did not abolish the immunity induced by the injection of MCT-H1 cells.Passive administration of H1 tumour-bearer serum (TBS) did not enhance the growth of H1 cells in normal mice, nor did TBS abrogate the specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) induced in vivo by MCT-H1 cells. However, TBS administered to Cg-treated, MCT-H1-immune mice abolished tumour immunity.We propose that TBS does not inhibit CMI in vivo provided that macrophages remain functional, but may do so when macrophages are rendered defective by antimacrophage agents or by products of neoplastic cells. Increasing the levels of specific effector cells can over-ride the inhibiting effects of TBS, even when defective macrophages are present.", "contents": "Effects of carrageenan, PVP and tumour-bearer serum on immunity induced by excision or mitomycin C-treated tumour cells in mice. Carrageenan (Cg) was tested for its effects on the growth of, and immunity to, 2 methylcholanthrene-induced syngeneic murine fibrosarcomas (H1 and H2). The tumours were found not to share major tumour-specific transplantation antigens. H2 appeared more immunogenic than H1. In contrast to H1, immunity induced by H2 was not affected by Cg, nor was its growth in Cg-treated normal mice augmented.Postoperative i.p. injections of Cg abolished the weak anti-H1 immunity produced by H1 tumour excision. Furthermore, the subsequent growth of the H1 tumour challenge in the Cg-treated immune mice was significantly greater than the augmented growth in Cg-treated normal mice. The Prior administration of the macrophage-stabilizing agent polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to immune mice significantly reduced the augmenting effect of Cg. The growth-promoting effect of Cg on a secondary H1 tumour challenge in mice immunized by tumour excision was abolished by 10(6) MCT-H1 cells injected s.c. before Cg. In contrast to the immunity induced by tumour excision, Cg did not abolish the immunity induced by the injection of MCT-H1 cells.Passive administration of H1 tumour-bearer serum (TBS) did not enhance the growth of H1 cells in normal mice, nor did TBS abrogate the specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) induced in vivo by MCT-H1 cells. However, TBS administered to Cg-treated, MCT-H1-immune mice abolished tumour immunity.We propose that TBS does not inhibit CMI in vivo provided that macrophages remain functional, but may do so when macrophages are rendered defective by antimacrophage agents or by products of neoplastic cells. Increasing the levels of specific effector cells can over-ride the inhibiting effects of TBS, even when defective macrophages are present.", "PMID": 444404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6654", "title": "Antibody-dependent and spontaneous lympholysis in urologic cancer patients.", "content": "To evaluate cytotoxic function mediated by killer lymphocytes and macrophages in urological cancer patients, we examined antibody-dependent and spontaneous lympholysis of chicken erythrocyte target cells, which is mediated by macrophages. Our results demonstrate a discordance between cytotoxic mechanisms in cancer patients, killer-cell function being impaired whilst macrophage-mediated cytotoxicity was increased.", "contents": "Antibody-dependent and spontaneous lympholysis in urologic cancer patients. To evaluate cytotoxic function mediated by killer lymphocytes and macrophages in urological cancer patients, we examined antibody-dependent and spontaneous lympholysis of chicken erythrocyte target cells, which is mediated by macrophages. Our results demonstrate a discordance between cytotoxic mechanisms in cancer patients, killer-cell function being impaired whilst macrophage-mediated cytotoxicity was increased.", "PMID": 444405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6655", "title": "Effect of treatment on the immunological status of women with advanced breast cancer.", "content": "An immunological profile has been serially studied in 72 patients with advanced breast cancer during the course of a randomized trial of chemotherapy and hormonal manipulation. DNCB+ patients were more likely to respond to either therapy, but no other test was predictive of response. In the follow-up period all chemotherapy patients had a reduction in white-cell count which was significantly greater in those responding to treatment. None of the other tests (phytohaemagglutinin response, immunoglobulins G, A and M, or Mantoux test) demonstrated changes that could be related to treatment or response, but there was a gradual unexplained fall in IgM levels in all groups the study progressed. It is concluded that the chemotherapeutic regimen (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, adriamycin and 5-fluorouracil) is relatively non-immunosuppressive, and that hormonal therapy (oophorectomy, tamoxifen or androgens) had no detectable effect on the immune response.", "contents": "Effect of treatment on the immunological status of women with advanced breast cancer. An immunological profile has been serially studied in 72 patients with advanced breast cancer during the course of a randomized trial of chemotherapy and hormonal manipulation. DNCB+ patients were more likely to respond to either therapy, but no other test was predictive of response. In the follow-up period all chemotherapy patients had a reduction in white-cell count which was significantly greater in those responding to treatment. None of the other tests (phytohaemagglutinin response, immunoglobulins G, A and M, or Mantoux test) demonstrated changes that could be related to treatment or response, but there was a gradual unexplained fall in IgM levels in all groups the study progressed. It is concluded that the chemotherapeutic regimen (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, adriamycin and 5-fluorouracil) is relatively non-immunosuppressive, and that hormonal therapy (oophorectomy, tamoxifen or androgens) had no detectable effect on the immune response.", "PMID": 444406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6656", "title": "Lipogenetic and glycolytic enzyme activities in carcinoma and nonmalignant diseases of the human breast.", "content": "Activities of some enzymes associated with carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were determined in 48 human breast carcinomas and compared with those found in 35 nonmalignant breast tumours and also in 13 normal breast tissues. In fibrocystic disease only the activity of citrate lyase was markedly higher (14-fold) than in normal tissue. The activities of the remaining enzymes did not differ significantly from those in normal tissue. Enzyme activities in breast carcinoma were 4--160 x those determined in normal tissue according to the following sequence : phosphofructokinase less than malate NADP dehydrogenase less than hexokinase less than lactate dehydrogenase less than isocitrate NADP dehydrogenase less than ATP citrate lyase. Activity of citrate lyase, very low in normal breast (0.0017 mumol/min/g of tissue) rose gradually to 0.039, 0.072 and 0.258 mumol/min/g of tissue in localized fibrocystic disease, fibroadenomas and carcinomas respectively. These data support the idea that citrate lyase may play an important role in lipogenesis in hyperplastic human breast tissues.", "contents": "Lipogenetic and glycolytic enzyme activities in carcinoma and nonmalignant diseases of the human breast. Activities of some enzymes associated with carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were determined in 48 human breast carcinomas and compared with those found in 35 nonmalignant breast tumours and also in 13 normal breast tissues. In fibrocystic disease only the activity of citrate lyase was markedly higher (14-fold) than in normal tissue. The activities of the remaining enzymes did not differ significantly from those in normal tissue. Enzyme activities in breast carcinoma were 4--160 x those determined in normal tissue according to the following sequence : phosphofructokinase less than malate NADP dehydrogenase less than hexokinase less than lactate dehydrogenase less than isocitrate NADP dehydrogenase less than ATP citrate lyase. Activity of citrate lyase, very low in normal breast (0.0017 mumol/min/g of tissue) rose gradually to 0.039, 0.072 and 0.258 mumol/min/g of tissue in localized fibrocystic disease, fibroadenomas and carcinomas respectively. These data support the idea that citrate lyase may play an important role in lipogenesis in hyperplastic human breast tissues.", "PMID": 444407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6657", "title": "Ratio of 11-desoxy 17-oxosteroids to creatinine in a population screened for breast cancer.", "content": "During a population-based screening project for breast cancer, almost 15,000 women aged 50 years and over have provided a 12 h (overnight) sample of urine for research purposes. In 3,789 women the excretion of 11-desoxy-17-oxosteroids (DOOS) and creatinine was measured. Results were analysed in terms of urinary concentrations and of a ratio between DOOS and creatinine. Age had an effect on DOOS, creatinine and their ratio. Body weight and body surface area had an effect on creatinine excretion and therefore on the ratio. The following variables did not have an appreciable effect on the above-mentioned ratio: a family history of breast cancer, parity and age at first pregnancy, menopause and oestrogenic drugs, and parenchymal pattern of the breast as observed on the xeromammogram. Breast cancer was found at first screening in 106 out of 14,697 women. In 100 of these cases DOOS and creatinine were measured. Excretion values expressed as the ratio between the two, allowing for body surface area, did not differ materially from those of 100 age-matched controls. These results lead the authors to the conclusion that the determination of androgen metabolite excretion in women over 50 years of age is of no help in selecting a group at high risk of breast cancer.", "contents": "Ratio of 11-desoxy 17-oxosteroids to creatinine in a population screened for breast cancer. During a population-based screening project for breast cancer, almost 15,000 women aged 50 years and over have provided a 12 h (overnight) sample of urine for research purposes. In 3,789 women the excretion of 11-desoxy-17-oxosteroids (DOOS) and creatinine was measured. Results were analysed in terms of urinary concentrations and of a ratio between DOOS and creatinine. Age had an effect on DOOS, creatinine and their ratio. Body weight and body surface area had an effect on creatinine excretion and therefore on the ratio. The following variables did not have an appreciable effect on the above-mentioned ratio: a family history of breast cancer, parity and age at first pregnancy, menopause and oestrogenic drugs, and parenchymal pattern of the breast as observed on the xeromammogram. Breast cancer was found at first screening in 106 out of 14,697 women. In 100 of these cases DOOS and creatinine were measured. Excretion values expressed as the ratio between the two, allowing for body surface area, did not differ materially from those of 100 age-matched controls. These results lead the authors to the conclusion that the determination of androgen metabolite excretion in women over 50 years of age is of no help in selecting a group at high risk of breast cancer.", "PMID": 444408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6658", "title": "Serum testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in carcinoma of the prostate.", "content": "Serum testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were measured by a sensitive and reliable radioimmunoassay in 42 normal subjects and 33 age-matched patients with carcinoma of the prostate. The mean +/- s.e. for serum testosterone in normal subjects was 16.74 +/- 0.76nM and the corresponding value for patients with carcinoma was 20.94 +/- 1.48nM. Statistical analysis of the results showed a significant increase in T level in patients with carcinoma of the prostate (P less than 0.01). In contrast, there was no difference in DHT concentration between the two groups, values being 2.43 +/- 0.09 and 2.06 +/- 0.09nM for normal subjects and patients respectively. The means +/- s.e. for T/DHT ratio in controls and patients were 6.8 +/- 0.2 and 12.8 +/- 1.3 respectively. The difference was highly significant (P less than 0.001). The wide range of variation for T in patients with carcinoma would suggest that although mean T is higher in these patients, this measurement alone is of little practical value, whereas T/DHT ratio is a more reliable parameter in evaluating the androgen changes in these patients. The significance of these findings in relation to the aetiology of the disease is discussed.", "contents": "Serum testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in carcinoma of the prostate. Serum testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were measured by a sensitive and reliable radioimmunoassay in 42 normal subjects and 33 age-matched patients with carcinoma of the prostate. The mean +/- s.e. for serum testosterone in normal subjects was 16.74 +/- 0.76nM and the corresponding value for patients with carcinoma was 20.94 +/- 1.48nM. Statistical analysis of the results showed a significant increase in T level in patients with carcinoma of the prostate (P less than 0.01). In contrast, there was no difference in DHT concentration between the two groups, values being 2.43 +/- 0.09 and 2.06 +/- 0.09nM for normal subjects and patients respectively. The means +/- s.e. for T/DHT ratio in controls and patients were 6.8 +/- 0.2 and 12.8 +/- 1.3 respectively. The difference was highly significant (P less than 0.001). The wide range of variation for T in patients with carcinoma would suggest that although mean T is higher in these patients, this measurement alone is of little practical value, whereas T/DHT ratio is a more reliable parameter in evaluating the androgen changes in these patients. The significance of these findings in relation to the aetiology of the disease is discussed.", "PMID": 444409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6659", "title": "Case-control study: soft-tissue sarcomas and exposure to phenoxyacetic acids or chlorophenols.", "content": "In 1977 a number of patients with soft-tissue sarcomas and previous exposure to phenoxyacetic acids were described. Following from these observations a matched case-control study was made. Exposure to chlorophenols was also included in this study. The results showed that exposure to phenoxyacetic acids or chlorophenols gave an approximately 6-fold increase in the risk for this type of tumour. It was not possible to determine, however, whether the carcinogenic effect was exerted by these compounds or by impurities such as chlorinated dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans that in almost all cases were part of the commercial preparations.", "contents": "Case-control study: soft-tissue sarcomas and exposure to phenoxyacetic acids or chlorophenols. In 1977 a number of patients with soft-tissue sarcomas and previous exposure to phenoxyacetic acids were described. Following from these observations a matched case-control study was made. Exposure to chlorophenols was also included in this study. The results showed that exposure to phenoxyacetic acids or chlorophenols gave an approximately 6-fold increase in the risk for this type of tumour. It was not possible to determine, however, whether the carcinogenic effect was exerted by these compounds or by impurities such as chlorinated dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans that in almost all cases were part of the commercial preparations.", "PMID": 444410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6660", "title": "Diet, liver function and dimethylhydrazine-induced gastrointestinal tumours in male Wistar rats.", "content": "Male Wistar rats fed a normal laboratory pelleted diet, when treated s.c. with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) 10 mg/kg/wk survived the 24-week experiment, showed no signs of chemical toxicity or macroscopic liver damage, and developed mainly large-bowel tumours. Conversely, male Wistar rats treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH did not survive the full term of the experiment and developed ascites, pleural effusions and nodular livers. They also developed more small-bowel tumours than large-bowel tumours. The relationship between the predominant site of tumour development and dosage of DMH was highly significant.Male Wistar rats fed with an all-liquid diet (Vivonex) and treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH behaved quite differently both in terms of survival and site of tumour development. These rats survived the full term of the experiment, showed no signs of chemical toxicity, experienced minimal liver damage and developed predominantly large-bowel tumours. The protection afforded by the all-liquid diet against DMH toxicity and small-bowel tumour induction was statistically highly significant.A series of blood tests with special reference to liver function confirmed the highly significant degree of protection against liver damage afforded by the all-liquid diet.Sections of liver from treated rats were examined, and a simple pathological scoring system was devised which showed a highly significant difference in liver histology between standard diet and liquid-diet rats treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH.The results strongly suggest an association between severity of liver damage from DMH and the subsequent development of small-bowel tumours. The all-liquid diet protected rats from liver damage and these rats developed significantly fewer small-bowel tumours.", "contents": "Diet, liver function and dimethylhydrazine-induced gastrointestinal tumours in male Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats fed a normal laboratory pelleted diet, when treated s.c. with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) 10 mg/kg/wk survived the 24-week experiment, showed no signs of chemical toxicity or macroscopic liver damage, and developed mainly large-bowel tumours. Conversely, male Wistar rats treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH did not survive the full term of the experiment and developed ascites, pleural effusions and nodular livers. They also developed more small-bowel tumours than large-bowel tumours. The relationship between the predominant site of tumour development and dosage of DMH was highly significant.Male Wistar rats fed with an all-liquid diet (Vivonex) and treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH behaved quite differently both in terms of survival and site of tumour development. These rats survived the full term of the experiment, showed no signs of chemical toxicity, experienced minimal liver damage and developed predominantly large-bowel tumours. The protection afforded by the all-liquid diet against DMH toxicity and small-bowel tumour induction was statistically highly significant.A series of blood tests with special reference to liver function confirmed the highly significant degree of protection against liver damage afforded by the all-liquid diet.Sections of liver from treated rats were examined, and a simple pathological scoring system was devised which showed a highly significant difference in liver histology between standard diet and liquid-diet rats treated with 20 mg/kg/wk DMH.The results strongly suggest an association between severity of liver damage from DMH and the subsequent development of small-bowel tumours. The all-liquid diet protected rats from liver damage and these rats developed significantly fewer small-bowel tumours.", "PMID": 444411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6661", "title": "Metastatic colonization potential of primary tumour cells in mice.", "content": "A model has been developed for studying the capability of cells from primary murine mammary tumours to establish colonies in distant organs. The model involves the i.v. inoculation of disaggregated tumour cells into autologous and syngeneic recipients. The results show that the metastatic colonization potential of cells from a given tumour is consistent within the animals of an inoculated batch. Also, the findings are uniform in the autologous host and the syngeneic recipients. Tumours vary in their colonization potential and can be classified in 2 main groups designated high and low. These findings indicate that: (i) cells from 37% of mammary tumours can heavily colonize the lungs when inoculated i.v., even though the incidence of metastatic spread of these tumours in the undisturbed animal is almost zero. Thus, the relative infrequency of spontaneous metastasis from murine mammary tumours is not due to inability of the tumour cells to survive and colonize once free in the blood stream; and (ii) the colonization potential of the tumours is an intrinsic property of the tumour cells rather than of the host, whose prior acquaintance with the cells does not seem to confer resistance to colonization. The model presents opportunities for identification of possible differences between tumours of high and low colonization potential, and is being used to study cellular properties which favour colonization of distant organs by comparison of observations in vitro with the behaviour of cells from the same tumour in vivo.", "contents": "Metastatic colonization potential of primary tumour cells in mice. A model has been developed for studying the capability of cells from primary murine mammary tumours to establish colonies in distant organs. The model involves the i.v. inoculation of disaggregated tumour cells into autologous and syngeneic recipients. The results show that the metastatic colonization potential of cells from a given tumour is consistent within the animals of an inoculated batch. Also, the findings are uniform in the autologous host and the syngeneic recipients. Tumours vary in their colonization potential and can be classified in 2 main groups designated high and low. These findings indicate that: (i) cells from 37% of mammary tumours can heavily colonize the lungs when inoculated i.v., even though the incidence of metastatic spread of these tumours in the undisturbed animal is almost zero. Thus, the relative infrequency of spontaneous metastasis from murine mammary tumours is not due to inability of the tumour cells to survive and colonize once free in the blood stream; and (ii) the colonization potential of the tumours is an intrinsic property of the tumour cells rather than of the host, whose prior acquaintance with the cells does not seem to confer resistance to colonization. The model presents opportunities for identification of possible differences between tumours of high and low colonization potential, and is being used to study cellular properties which favour colonization of distant organs by comparison of observations in vitro with the behaviour of cells from the same tumour in vivo.", "PMID": 444412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6662", "title": "Cellular progression of neoplasia in the subcutis of mice after implantation of 3,4-benzpyrene.", "content": "An implantation model has been used to investigate the cellular progression of chemically induced subcutaneous neoplasia in the mouse. Implantation of 3,4-benzpyrene induced persistent changes in the normal process of connective tissue formation around the implant. Light-microscope and autoradiographic studies have shown a temporal progression from aberrant filter- or muscle-associated cells through proliferative foci to large invasive sarcoma. Electron microscopy revealed that presarcomatous cell foci consisted of one of two different cell types. These were either spindle cells with ultrastructural characteristics similar to foreign-body-induced sarcoma, or cells with the ultrastructural features of rhabdomyosarcoma. The subsequent appearance of two histological groups of sarcoma that were ultrastructurally similar to the cells of the early proliferative foci indicated that both elements may progress to form tumours. However, the constituent cells of both groups of tumours displayed a broad histological and ultrastructural spectrum and the marked similarity between the undifferentiated cells of each suggested that both may have arisen from diverse differentiation of a common pluripotential cell such as the pericyte.", "contents": "Cellular progression of neoplasia in the subcutis of mice after implantation of 3,4-benzpyrene. An implantation model has been used to investigate the cellular progression of chemically induced subcutaneous neoplasia in the mouse. Implantation of 3,4-benzpyrene induced persistent changes in the normal process of connective tissue formation around the implant. Light-microscope and autoradiographic studies have shown a temporal progression from aberrant filter- or muscle-associated cells through proliferative foci to large invasive sarcoma. Electron microscopy revealed that presarcomatous cell foci consisted of one of two different cell types. These were either spindle cells with ultrastructural characteristics similar to foreign-body-induced sarcoma, or cells with the ultrastructural features of rhabdomyosarcoma. The subsequent appearance of two histological groups of sarcoma that were ultrastructurally similar to the cells of the early proliferative foci indicated that both elements may progress to form tumours. However, the constituent cells of both groups of tumours displayed a broad histological and ultrastructural spectrum and the marked similarity between the undifferentiated cells of each suggested that both may have arisen from diverse differentiation of a common pluripotential cell such as the pericyte.", "PMID": 444413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6663", "title": "Neural changes in recurrent genital infection of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus in calves treated with dexamethasone.", "content": "Recurrent genital infection with infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) virus was induced in calves by dexamethasone (DM) treatment 3 months after primary infection. The virus was first recovered from vaginal secretions on the 3rd day after the initiation of DM treatment; however, the virus was not recovered at all from nasal secretions or from the cerebrospinal fluid of the DM-treated calves. The significant neural changes in all recurrent infected calves were nonsuppurative poliomyelitis in the lumbosacral spinal cords and their ganglia, and they were more severe in the sacrospinal cords than in other parts of the spinal cord. The virus antigen was detected in the sacrospinal ganglia and peripheral nerve fibres in the submucosa of the vagina by the fluorescent antibody technique on the 4th and 6th days after the start of DM treatment. These observations indicated that nonsuppurative poliomyelitis may be a characteristic lesion in recurrent genital infection of IBR virus. The sacrospinal cords and ganglia are considered as latent sites of IBR virus.", "contents": "Neural changes in recurrent genital infection of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus in calves treated with dexamethasone. Recurrent genital infection with infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) virus was induced in calves by dexamethasone (DM) treatment 3 months after primary infection. The virus was first recovered from vaginal secretions on the 3rd day after the initiation of DM treatment; however, the virus was not recovered at all from nasal secretions or from the cerebrospinal fluid of the DM-treated calves. The significant neural changes in all recurrent infected calves were nonsuppurative poliomyelitis in the lumbosacral spinal cords and their ganglia, and they were more severe in the sacrospinal cords than in other parts of the spinal cord. The virus antigen was detected in the sacrospinal ganglia and peripheral nerve fibres in the submucosa of the vagina by the fluorescent antibody technique on the 4th and 6th days after the start of DM treatment. These observations indicated that nonsuppurative poliomyelitis may be a characteristic lesion in recurrent genital infection of IBR virus. The sacrospinal cords and ganglia are considered as latent sites of IBR virus.", "PMID": 444414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6664", "title": "Ultrastructural changes in the renal papillary cells of rats during maintenance and repair of profound potassium depletion.", "content": "In rats with long-term diet-induced potassium depletion, the cytoplasm of markedly enlarged papillary cells was mainly occupied by membrane-bound droplets, many of which acquired massive proportions. Both free and attached ribosomes were decreased, the Golgi apparatus was inconspicuous and there was a paucity of mitochondria. Despite the overwhelming accumulation of droplets with concomitant loss of normal metabolic organelles, cell death did not occur. With potassium repletion, the organelles readily proliferated regardless of the progression of droplet dissolution. The shrinkage of the droplets was accompanied either by disintegration of the limiting membrane or by disappearance of the constituents within an intact membrane. Microtubules were conspicuous in many of the cells undergoing gradual reduction in size. These cytoplasmic changes in renal medullary cells of rats during long-term potassium depletion and immediate post-repletion periods essentially represented the consequences of maintenance and repair of a storage process.", "contents": "Ultrastructural changes in the renal papillary cells of rats during maintenance and repair of profound potassium depletion. In rats with long-term diet-induced potassium depletion, the cytoplasm of markedly enlarged papillary cells was mainly occupied by membrane-bound droplets, many of which acquired massive proportions. Both free and attached ribosomes were decreased, the Golgi apparatus was inconspicuous and there was a paucity of mitochondria. Despite the overwhelming accumulation of droplets with concomitant loss of normal metabolic organelles, cell death did not occur. With potassium repletion, the organelles readily proliferated regardless of the progression of droplet dissolution. The shrinkage of the droplets was accompanied either by disintegration of the limiting membrane or by disappearance of the constituents within an intact membrane. Microtubules were conspicuous in many of the cells undergoing gradual reduction in size. These cytoplasmic changes in renal medullary cells of rats during long-term potassium depletion and immediate post-repletion periods essentially represented the consequences of maintenance and repair of a storage process.", "PMID": 444415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6665", "title": "Ultrastructure of rat lungs following exposure to aerosols of dibenzoxazepine (CR).", "content": "Three groups of 18 animals were exposed respectively to the following large doses of dibenz (b.f)-1:4 oxazepine (CR) aerosols, 78,200,140,900 and 161,300 mg/min/m3. Animals were killed at intervals from 15 min to 2 days, and the lungs examined macroscopically, by electron microscopy and conventional histology. There were no deaths during or after exposure. Macroscopically the lungs from all rats appeared normal. Microscopically there were a few areas of mild congestion, haemorrhage and emphysema, but there was little variation between the different groups. Electron micrographs revealed some morphological alteration of the epithelium and endothelium but only occasional changes in the interstitium. The alterations took the form of \"ballooning\" of the endothelium with isolated foci of swelling and thickening of the epithelium. Interstitial oedema was observed in one animal only which was exposed to the highest concentration. The effects appeared similar in all groups, and are thought to be transient. The results of this investigation suggest that even high doses of CR aerosols cause minimal damage to the lung, and the structural alterations which do occur are believed to be due to the stress to which the animals were subjected during the exposure period.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of rat lungs following exposure to aerosols of dibenzoxazepine (CR). Three groups of 18 animals were exposed respectively to the following large doses of dibenz (b.f)-1:4 oxazepine (CR) aerosols, 78,200,140,900 and 161,300 mg/min/m3. Animals were killed at intervals from 15 min to 2 days, and the lungs examined macroscopically, by electron microscopy and conventional histology. There were no deaths during or after exposure. Macroscopically the lungs from all rats appeared normal. Microscopically there were a few areas of mild congestion, haemorrhage and emphysema, but there was little variation between the different groups. Electron micrographs revealed some morphological alteration of the epithelium and endothelium but only occasional changes in the interstitium. The alterations took the form of \"ballooning\" of the endothelium with isolated foci of swelling and thickening of the epithelium. Interstitial oedema was observed in one animal only which was exposed to the highest concentration. The effects appeared similar in all groups, and are thought to be transient. The results of this investigation suggest that even high doses of CR aerosols cause minimal damage to the lung, and the structural alterations which do occur are believed to be due to the stress to which the animals were subjected during the exposure period.", "PMID": 444416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6666", "title": "Liposome-incorporated corticosteroids: I. The interaction of liposomal cortisol palmitate with inflammatory synovial membrane.", "content": "Cortisol palmitate-containing liposomes were stable in rheumatoid synovial fluid at 37 degrees. Two hours after the intra-articular injection of such liposomes into experimentally arthritic rabbits relatively high proportions of the steroid and lecithin components were recovered from the synovialis. The level of cortisol in the tissue at this time was inversely related to the chronicity of the inflammation. It was found also that the degree and duration of the anti-inflammatory activity of the liposomes was greatest in the initial acute phases of the inflammation.", "contents": "Liposome-incorporated corticosteroids: I. The interaction of liposomal cortisol palmitate with inflammatory synovial membrane. Cortisol palmitate-containing liposomes were stable in rheumatoid synovial fluid at 37 degrees. Two hours after the intra-articular injection of such liposomes into experimentally arthritic rabbits relatively high proportions of the steroid and lecithin components were recovered from the synovialis. The level of cortisol in the tissue at this time was inversely related to the chronicity of the inflammation. It was found also that the degree and duration of the anti-inflammatory activity of the liposomes was greatest in the initial acute phases of the inflammation.", "PMID": 444417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6667", "title": "The NBT test in burned patients.", "content": "The number of polymorphs which stained with the dye nitro-blue tetrazolium (NBT \"Positive\") increased sharply during the first week after burning, reaching levels 4--5 times above values for healthy volunteers. In burns of more than 20% of the body surface a second, smaller increase in the number of NBT \"positives\" occurred 4 to 6 weeks after burning. The high levels of NBT \"positive\" polymorphs occurred independently of infection on the burns. A burned patient who died from septicaemia had very low numbers of NBT \"positive\" polymorphs for 3 weeks before death.", "contents": "The NBT test in burned patients. The number of polymorphs which stained with the dye nitro-blue tetrazolium (NBT \"Positive\") increased sharply during the first week after burning, reaching levels 4--5 times above values for healthy volunteers. In burns of more than 20% of the body surface a second, smaller increase in the number of NBT \"positives\" occurred 4 to 6 weeks after burning. The high levels of NBT \"positive\" polymorphs occurred independently of infection on the burns. A burned patient who died from septicaemia had very low numbers of NBT \"positive\" polymorphs for 3 weeks before death.", "PMID": 444418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6668", "title": "The initiation of epidermal wound healing in cuts and burns.", "content": "An apparatus to produce shallow linear burns is described. The burns contained about the same amount of damaged tissue as a shallow cut. The initiation of healing in cuts and burns on guinea-pig ears was studied using an 3H-thymidine and autoradiographic technique to determine the number of cells in DNA synthesis in epidermis adjacent to the wound. Cuts caused epidermal cells to enter DNA synthesis rapidly; the maximum response was 1 day after injury. Thus response was delayed in burns and the maximum was not seen until at least 3 days after burning. Extracts of normal skin stimulated epidermal DNA synthesis, whereas extracts of burned skin did not. Possible mechanisms affecting the delay in the healing of burns are discussed.", "contents": "The initiation of epidermal wound healing in cuts and burns. An apparatus to produce shallow linear burns is described. The burns contained about the same amount of damaged tissue as a shallow cut. The initiation of healing in cuts and burns on guinea-pig ears was studied using an 3H-thymidine and autoradiographic technique to determine the number of cells in DNA synthesis in epidermis adjacent to the wound. Cuts caused epidermal cells to enter DNA synthesis rapidly; the maximum response was 1 day after injury. Thus response was delayed in burns and the maximum was not seen until at least 3 days after burning. Extracts of normal skin stimulated epidermal DNA synthesis, whereas extracts of burned skin did not. Possible mechanisms affecting the delay in the healing of burns are discussed.", "PMID": 444419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6669", "title": "Study of allergenic fungi by means of a laser beam.", "content": "Laser microscopy was employed to detect some elements of Mendeleev's classification in allergenic moulds for humans. It permits the detection of 74 elements in the periodic system, from lithium (3) to uranium (92). This method requires little specimen preparation and has the advantage of not requiring large masses of tissue.", "contents": "Study of allergenic fungi by means of a laser beam. Laser microscopy was employed to detect some elements of Mendeleev's classification in allergenic moulds for humans. It permits the detection of 74 elements in the periodic system, from lithium (3) to uranium (92). This method requires little specimen preparation and has the advantage of not requiring large masses of tissue.", "PMID": 444420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6670", "title": "Protection of pregnant mice with phospholipase C and with Arvin against foetal death induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharide.", "content": "Injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide into pregnant mice resulted in fibrinogen accumulation, thrombosis and haemorrhage in the placental tissue and foetal death. Depletion of circulating fibrinogen by a thrombin-like enzyme from the venom of Malayan pit viper, Arvin, prevents foetal death. Foetal protection was also obtained by treating the mothers with a preparation of phospholipase C from Bacillus cereus known to inactivate tissue thromboplastin. It is suggested the lipopolysaccharide causes foetal death by inducing thrombosis as a consequence of activation of placental thromboplastin.", "contents": "Protection of pregnant mice with phospholipase C and with Arvin against foetal death induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharide. Injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide into pregnant mice resulted in fibrinogen accumulation, thrombosis and haemorrhage in the placental tissue and foetal death. Depletion of circulating fibrinogen by a thrombin-like enzyme from the venom of Malayan pit viper, Arvin, prevents foetal death. Foetal protection was also obtained by treating the mothers with a preparation of phospholipase C from Bacillus cereus known to inactivate tissue thromboplastin. It is suggested the lipopolysaccharide causes foetal death by inducing thrombosis as a consequence of activation of placental thromboplastin.", "PMID": 444421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6671", "title": "The study of biogenetic pathways using a perfusion technique containing perfluorochemicals.", "content": "A liver perfusion system was assembled and adapted for pulse labelling studies. The perfusion medium was prepared by emulsifying perfluorotributylamine and Pluronic F 68 in a CO2 atmosphere using a sonicator. Ribosome-rich and ribosome-poor rough microsomes, smooth microsomes and Golgi membranes could be prepared from perfused livers with a good purity and recovery as from non-perfused livers. The subfractionation technique used was simple and involved slight modifications of the methods described earlier by Eriksson (1973) and Ehrenreich et al. (1973). The specific activity of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase in microsomes and of UDP-galactosyltransferase in Golgi membranes from perfused and non-perfused livers were identical. The specific activity of glucose-6-phosphatase in microsomes was slightly decreased after perfusion, but the membrane permeability barrier to glucose-6-phosphate remained intact. The granulated microsomal fractions from perfused liver had a somewhat reduced number of membrane-bound ribosomes. The system developed proved useful in studies of the synthesis and intracellular transport of albumin. The technique should also be suitable for use in studies of membrane biogenesis.", "contents": "The study of biogenetic pathways using a perfusion technique containing perfluorochemicals. A liver perfusion system was assembled and adapted for pulse labelling studies. The perfusion medium was prepared by emulsifying perfluorotributylamine and Pluronic F 68 in a CO2 atmosphere using a sonicator. Ribosome-rich and ribosome-poor rough microsomes, smooth microsomes and Golgi membranes could be prepared from perfused livers with a good purity and recovery as from non-perfused livers. The subfractionation technique used was simple and involved slight modifications of the methods described earlier by Eriksson (1973) and Ehrenreich et al. (1973). The specific activity of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase in microsomes and of UDP-galactosyltransferase in Golgi membranes from perfused and non-perfused livers were identical. The specific activity of glucose-6-phosphatase in microsomes was slightly decreased after perfusion, but the membrane permeability barrier to glucose-6-phosphate remained intact. The granulated microsomal fractions from perfused liver had a somewhat reduced number of membrane-bound ribosomes. The system developed proved useful in studies of the synthesis and intracellular transport of albumin. The technique should also be suitable for use in studies of membrane biogenesis.", "PMID": 444422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6672", "title": "Focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis in the rat caused by Habu snake venom: the role of platelets.", "content": "Platelet aggregates are a prominent early feature in the glomerular lesions of focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis induced by Habu venom. After venom injection the peripheral blood platelet count falls rapidly, and in vitro the venom causes platelet aggregation and release of 5-HT. The role of platelets in this model has been studied in rats depleted of platelets by antiplatelet serum administration. No effect on the early (24 h) glomerular damage was found. Mesangial proliferation which appears 2--3 days after glomerular injury was significantly inhibited in platelet-depleted rats. These results show that platelet activity does not initiate the mesangial injury in this model, but suggest that platelets or their products act as a stimulus to mesangial proliferation.", "contents": "Focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis in the rat caused by Habu snake venom: the role of platelets. Platelet aggregates are a prominent early feature in the glomerular lesions of focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis induced by Habu venom. After venom injection the peripheral blood platelet count falls rapidly, and in vitro the venom causes platelet aggregation and release of 5-HT. The role of platelets in this model has been studied in rats depleted of platelets by antiplatelet serum administration. No effect on the early (24 h) glomerular damage was found. Mesangial proliferation which appears 2--3 days after glomerular injury was significantly inhibited in platelet-depleted rats. These results show that platelet activity does not initiate the mesangial injury in this model, but suggest that platelets or their products act as a stimulus to mesangial proliferation.", "PMID": 444423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6673", "title": "Myocardial capillary density and muscle fibre size in rats born and raised at simulated high altitude.", "content": "Rats were born in a hypobaric chamber at a pressure of 500 mmHg and kept there at 460 mmHg for 5, 9 or 13 weeks. The myocardial capillary bed was labelled by perfusion with India ink. The density of myocardial capillaries and the area of cross-section of myofibres was estimated from histological sections. In the left ventricle there was a steady reduction in capillary density with increasing age which was similar in test and control rats. There was also an increase in myofibre size which was similar in test and controls. Hypoxia therefore failed to induce capillary proliferation or a reduction in myofibre diameter in the left ventricle and this is reflected in a constant capillary:fibre ratio. In the right ventricle, ventricular hypertrophy in the hypoxic rats induced a striking reduction in capillary density due to a two-fold increase in myofibre size. There was nevertheless some degree of capillary proliferation, probably a consequence of hypertrophy rather than the direct influence of hypoxia.", "contents": "Myocardial capillary density and muscle fibre size in rats born and raised at simulated high altitude. Rats were born in a hypobaric chamber at a pressure of 500 mmHg and kept there at 460 mmHg for 5, 9 or 13 weeks. The myocardial capillary bed was labelled by perfusion with India ink. The density of myocardial capillaries and the area of cross-section of myofibres was estimated from histological sections. In the left ventricle there was a steady reduction in capillary density with increasing age which was similar in test and control rats. There was also an increase in myofibre size which was similar in test and controls. Hypoxia therefore failed to induce capillary proliferation or a reduction in myofibre diameter in the left ventricle and this is reflected in a constant capillary:fibre ratio. In the right ventricle, ventricular hypertrophy in the hypoxic rats induced a striking reduction in capillary density due to a two-fold increase in myofibre size. There was nevertheless some degree of capillary proliferation, probably a consequence of hypertrophy rather than the direct influence of hypoxia.", "PMID": 444424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6674", "title": "Plasma complement and histamine changes in atopic dermatitis.", "content": "Fifteen patients with atopic dermatitis were investigated to evaluate the total of complement and histamine. In five patients total serum complement haemolytic activity (CH50) was significantly decreased as was the haemolytic activity of complement components C2 (C2H50) and C3 (C3H50). By counter immunoelectrophoresis split products of C3 were detected. There was no evidence for alternative pathway activation or the presence of an activator of the alternative pathway. In three patients plasma histamine concentrations were elevated. The intensity of the complement and histamine changes observed seemed to be correlated to the severity of the disease.", "contents": "Plasma complement and histamine changes in atopic dermatitis. Fifteen patients with atopic dermatitis were investigated to evaluate the total of complement and histamine. In five patients total serum complement haemolytic activity (CH50) was significantly decreased as was the haemolytic activity of complement components C2 (C2H50) and C3 (C3H50). By counter immunoelectrophoresis split products of C3 were detected. There was no evidence for alternative pathway activation or the presence of an activator of the alternative pathway. In three patients plasma histamine concentrations were elevated. The intensity of the complement and histamine changes observed seemed to be correlated to the severity of the disease.", "PMID": 444425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6675", "title": "Ia antigens on indeterminate cells of the epidermis: immunoelectronmicroscopic studies of surface antigens.", "content": "An antiserum against human B-lymphoblastoid cell membrane alloantigens (Ia-like antigens) was used to study the presence of such antigens on dendritic cells in human epidermis. Only Langerhans cells and the majority (85%) of so-called indeterminate cells were positively stained, as shown by immuno-electron microscopy. Fifteen percent of the indeterminate cells were negative and were considered to be immature melanocytes. A relationship exists between the indeterminate cell and the Langerhans cell. A proposal is made concerning emigration of Langerhans cells in response to haptenic stimulation, and the immigration of indeterminate cells to restore the status quo.", "contents": "Ia antigens on indeterminate cells of the epidermis: immunoelectronmicroscopic studies of surface antigens. An antiserum against human B-lymphoblastoid cell membrane alloantigens (Ia-like antigens) was used to study the presence of such antigens on dendritic cells in human epidermis. Only Langerhans cells and the majority (85%) of so-called indeterminate cells were positively stained, as shown by immuno-electron microscopy. Fifteen percent of the indeterminate cells were negative and were considered to be immature melanocytes. A relationship exists between the indeterminate cell and the Langerhans cell. A proposal is made concerning emigration of Langerhans cells in response to haptenic stimulation, and the immigration of indeterminate cells to restore the status quo.", "PMID": 444426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6676", "title": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome).", "content": "Evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation was recorded in eight patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)--Lyell's syndrome. Patients were treated with low doses of heparin in combination with the usual treatment of TEN, i.e. maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance, systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics and aseptic dressings, in the Intensive Care Unit environment. It is suggested that the alteration of haemostasis and inter-related biological systems, such as activation of components of complement, kinins and immunoglobulins, may affect the outcome of TEN.", "contents": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome). Evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation was recorded in eight patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)--Lyell's syndrome. Patients were treated with low doses of heparin in combination with the usual treatment of TEN, i.e. maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance, systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics and aseptic dressings, in the Intensive Care Unit environment. It is suggested that the alteration of haemostasis and inter-related biological systems, such as activation of components of complement, kinins and immunoglobulins, may affect the outcome of TEN.", "PMID": 444427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6677", "title": "Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp.", "content": "We report six patients with a previously undescribed but characteristic pustular dermatosis confined to the scalp. All the patients were elderly women who developed chronic, extensive, pustular, crusted and occasionally eroded lesions of the scalp which produced scarring alopecia. Investigations were essentially negative and skin biopsies showed only non-specific changes of atrophy and chronic inflammation, sometimes with increased plasma cells in the infiltrate. The condition did not respond to antibiotics, but was suppressed by potent topical steroids.", "contents": "Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp. We report six patients with a previously undescribed but characteristic pustular dermatosis confined to the scalp. All the patients were elderly women who developed chronic, extensive, pustular, crusted and occasionally eroded lesions of the scalp which produced scarring alopecia. Investigations were essentially negative and skin biopsies showed only non-specific changes of atrophy and chronic inflammation, sometimes with increased plasma cells in the infiltrate. The condition did not respond to antibiotics, but was suppressed by potent topical steroids.", "PMID": 444428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6678", "title": "Male-pattern alopecia and masculinity.", "content": "Cutaneous processes which are thought to be influenced by androgenic stimulation include the development of male-pattern alopecia, terminal hair distribution, sebum excretion rate, maximal sweat secretion rate and skin thickness. We measured these indices in forty-eight normal men, together with muscle, fat and bone thickness and plasma testosterone. There was a significant correlation between hair density on the forearm, leg and chest, but no other significant correlations were found. We conclude that bald men are no more 'masculine' than those with good scalp hair growth, if masculinity is defined in terms of end-organ response to androgenic stimulation.", "contents": "Male-pattern alopecia and masculinity. Cutaneous processes which are thought to be influenced by androgenic stimulation include the development of male-pattern alopecia, terminal hair distribution, sebum excretion rate, maximal sweat secretion rate and skin thickness. We measured these indices in forty-eight normal men, together with muscle, fat and bone thickness and plasma testosterone. There was a significant correlation between hair density on the forearm, leg and chest, but no other significant correlations were found. We conclude that bald men are no more 'masculine' than those with good scalp hair growth, if masculinity is defined in terms of end-organ response to androgenic stimulation.", "PMID": 444429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6679", "title": "Diameter of the collagen fibrils in the sclerodermatous skin of porphyria cutanea tarda.", "content": "The diameter of collagen fibrils was studied in a patient with porphyria cutanea tarda in a specimen obtained from the sclerodermatous skin of the back. A bimodal distribution of the diameter of the fibrils was observed with maxima at 33.5 nm and 68.7 nm. The mean diameter was 67 nm with a standard deviation of 10.6 nm. These results are similar to those obtained previously in localized scleroderma (morphoea).", "contents": "Diameter of the collagen fibrils in the sclerodermatous skin of porphyria cutanea tarda. The diameter of collagen fibrils was studied in a patient with porphyria cutanea tarda in a specimen obtained from the sclerodermatous skin of the back. A bimodal distribution of the diameter of the fibrils was observed with maxima at 33.5 nm and 68.7 nm. The mean diameter was 67 nm with a standard deviation of 10.6 nm. These results are similar to those obtained previously in localized scleroderma (morphoea).", "PMID": 444430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6680", "title": "Scytalidium hyalinum infection of skin and nails.", "content": "Five cases of skin and nail infection associated with Scytalidium hyalinum are described. The lesions were confined to the hands, feet and toenails. All the patients were from the West Indies and were of Negroid descent. Scytalidium hyalinum was the only fungus isolated on repeated culture from three patients, while the remaining two patients had mixed infections, one with Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale and the other with Hendersonula toruloidea.", "contents": "Scytalidium hyalinum infection of skin and nails. Five cases of skin and nail infection associated with Scytalidium hyalinum are described. The lesions were confined to the hands, feet and toenails. All the patients were from the West Indies and were of Negroid descent. Scytalidium hyalinum was the only fungus isolated on repeated culture from three patients, while the remaining two patients had mixed infections, one with Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale and the other with Hendersonula toruloidea.", "PMID": 444431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6681", "title": "A syndrome of ichthyosis, hepatosplenomegaly and cerebellar degeneration.", "content": "Two brothers are described with ichthyosis, hepatosplenomegaly and signs of cerebellar degeneration. The ichthyosis was similar to autosomal dominant ichthyosis both clinically and biochemically. No metabolic abnormality has yet been identified to account for this previously undescribed triad of abnormalities.", "contents": "A syndrome of ichthyosis, hepatosplenomegaly and cerebellar degeneration. Two brothers are described with ichthyosis, hepatosplenomegaly and signs of cerebellar degeneration. The ichthyosis was similar to autosomal dominant ichthyosis both clinically and biochemically. No metabolic abnormality has yet been identified to account for this previously undescribed triad of abnormalities.", "PMID": 444432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6682", "title": "Dependence of acoustic attenuation of hearing protectors on incident sound level.", "content": "The relationship between incident sound level and acoustic attenuation for four types of earplug and four types of earmuff have been investigated using freshly prepared and instrumented cadaver ears. Pure tones and 1/3-octave bands of random noise in the frequency range 125-8000 Hz were employed as steady-state stimuli with sound pressure levels between 75 and 125 dB. Impulses with peak sound levels in the range 135-175 dB(P) were also presented. For the steady-state signals employed, the eight hearing protectors have been shown to have constant attenuation characteristics over the range of incident sound levels investigated. This was also the case for the six conventional protectors (with intentionally linear characteristics) for the impulse stimuli. The two intentionally amplitude-sensitive protectors provided attenuation which increased with incident sound level for impulse noises. Comparison of the protector attenuation-frequency characteristics determined for steady-state sounds shows good agreement with those obtained from subjective (threshold shift) national standard measurement procedures. It may be concluded, therefore, that the six conventional hearing protectors studied here have attenuation characteristics that are equal for incident sound levels at about 40 and 75 dB, and that they are constant for levels between 75 and 175 dB. Consequently, the results of national standard threshold-shift procedures, although measured at low sound levels, may be applied with confidence to occupations where hazardous high-level noises are present.", "contents": "Dependence of acoustic attenuation of hearing protectors on incident sound level. The relationship between incident sound level and acoustic attenuation for four types of earplug and four types of earmuff have been investigated using freshly prepared and instrumented cadaver ears. Pure tones and 1/3-octave bands of random noise in the frequency range 125-8000 Hz were employed as steady-state stimuli with sound pressure levels between 75 and 125 dB. Impulses with peak sound levels in the range 135-175 dB(P) were also presented. For the steady-state signals employed, the eight hearing protectors have been shown to have constant attenuation characteristics over the range of incident sound levels investigated. This was also the case for the six conventional protectors (with intentionally linear characteristics) for the impulse stimuli. The two intentionally amplitude-sensitive protectors provided attenuation which increased with incident sound level for impulse noises. Comparison of the protector attenuation-frequency characteristics determined for steady-state sounds shows good agreement with those obtained from subjective (threshold shift) national standard measurement procedures. It may be concluded, therefore, that the six conventional hearing protectors studied here have attenuation characteristics that are equal for incident sound levels at about 40 and 75 dB, and that they are constant for levels between 75 and 175 dB. Consequently, the results of national standard threshold-shift procedures, although measured at low sound levels, may be applied with confidence to occupations where hazardous high-level noises are present.", "PMID": 444436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6683", "title": "The mortality of men in the Rhondda Fach, 1950--1970.", "content": "A more detailed analysis of material from the 20-year follow-up of men in the Rhondda Fach confirms the similarity between the Standardised Mortality Ratios (SMRs) of miners and exminers with radiological categories 0, 1, 2, 3 and A (120.3, 116.5, 119.0, 115.7, and 120.1 respectively) as well as the difference between these SMRs and that of the non-moners (98.7). The specific death rates show a raised SMR for bronchitis and other respiratory diseases excluding pneumoconiosis for all categories including category 0, but little difference between those for category 0 and those for simple pneumoconiosis. The SMRs for ischaemic heart disease and other circulatory diseases for categories A, B and C combined are lower than those for simple pneumoconiosis and category 0 (84.2 and 85.0, compared with 109.8 and 121.8 for simple pneumoconiosis, and 117.5 and 114.6 for category 0). Fortunately the SMR for leukaemia is low. A comparison between the survival rates of men aged 55-64 in Leigh, Lancashire and those in the Rhondda Fach suggests that nonminers in the two areas have similar survival rates while the survival rates for category 0 and simple pneumoconiosis are lower in the Rhondda Fach.", "contents": "The mortality of men in the Rhondda Fach, 1950--1970. A more detailed analysis of material from the 20-year follow-up of men in the Rhondda Fach confirms the similarity between the Standardised Mortality Ratios (SMRs) of miners and exminers with radiological categories 0, 1, 2, 3 and A (120.3, 116.5, 119.0, 115.7, and 120.1 respectively) as well as the difference between these SMRs and that of the non-moners (98.7). The specific death rates show a raised SMR for bronchitis and other respiratory diseases excluding pneumoconiosis for all categories including category 0, but little difference between those for category 0 and those for simple pneumoconiosis. The SMRs for ischaemic heart disease and other circulatory diseases for categories A, B and C combined are lower than those for simple pneumoconiosis and category 0 (84.2 and 85.0, compared with 109.8 and 121.8 for simple pneumoconiosis, and 117.5 and 114.6 for category 0). Fortunately the SMR for leukaemia is low. A comparison between the survival rates of men aged 55-64 in Leigh, Lancashire and those in the Rhondda Fach suggests that nonminers in the two areas have similar survival rates while the survival rates for category 0 and simple pneumoconiosis are lower in the Rhondda Fach.", "PMID": 444437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6684", "title": "Pulmonary function in firefighters: acute changes in ventilatory capacity and their correlates.", "content": "A group of 39 firefighters was examined during routine firefighing duty. Following smoke exposure the average decrease in one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV1.0) was 0.05 litre (137 observations). This decline in FEV1.0 was related to the severity of smoke exposure as estimated by the firefighter and to the measured particulate concentration of the smoke to which he was exposed. Decreases in FEV1.0 in excess of 0.10 litre were recorded in 30% of observations. Changes in FEV1.0 resulting from a second exposure to smoke on the same tour of duty were greater when smoke exposure at the previous fire was heavy. The repeated episodes of irritation of the bronchial tree that have been documented in this investigation may explain the origin of the previously observed chronic effect of firefighting on respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function.", "contents": "Pulmonary function in firefighters: acute changes in ventilatory capacity and their correlates. A group of 39 firefighters was examined during routine firefighing duty. Following smoke exposure the average decrease in one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV1.0) was 0.05 litre (137 observations). This decline in FEV1.0 was related to the severity of smoke exposure as estimated by the firefighter and to the measured particulate concentration of the smoke to which he was exposed. Decreases in FEV1.0 in excess of 0.10 litre were recorded in 30% of observations. Changes in FEV1.0 resulting from a second exposure to smoke on the same tour of duty were greater when smoke exposure at the previous fire was heavy. The repeated episodes of irritation of the bronchial tree that have been documented in this investigation may explain the origin of the previously observed chronic effect of firefighting on respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function.", "PMID": 444439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6685", "title": "Occupational lead exposure in Denmark: screening with the haematofluorometer.", "content": "The zinc protoporphyrin/haemoglobin (ZPP/Hb) ratio was measured in the field with a haematofluorometer. A significant increase in ZPP/Hb ratio with advancing age was found in 1295 men who denied any excess exposure to lead. Ninety-seven per cent of the results were below 110 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (4.4 microgram ZPP/g Hb). The ZPP/Hb ratio was determined in a lead-exposed population of 2275 men, and in 305 a blood lead analysis was also performed. A blood lead limit of 2.9 mumol/l (60 microgram/100 ml) corresponds to about 500 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (20 microgram/g). This limit was exceeded in workers engaged in secondary lead smelting, storage battery manufacture, car radiator repair, crystal glass manufacture, storage battery repair, ship breaking, metal foundries, the ceramic industry, scrap metal handling, and PVC plastic manufacture. Other occupations caused lower lead exposures with ZPP/Hb ratios between 110 and 500 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe): such ratios were found in men from shooting ranges, in leaded pane manufacturers, gunsmiths, car paint sprayers, type setters, steel rolling mill workers, shipbuilders and welders, car mechanics, lead pigment handlers, and solderers. Increased ZPP/Hb ratios and blood lead levels in 210 workers were associated with a decrease in haemoglobin concentration in the blood. Thus, the haematofluorometer has proved to be very useful for screening purposes. A blood lead determination should be performed if the ZPP/Hb ratio exceeds 300 microgram ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (12 microgram/g).", "contents": "Occupational lead exposure in Denmark: screening with the haematofluorometer. The zinc protoporphyrin/haemoglobin (ZPP/Hb) ratio was measured in the field with a haematofluorometer. A significant increase in ZPP/Hb ratio with advancing age was found in 1295 men who denied any excess exposure to lead. Ninety-seven per cent of the results were below 110 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (4.4 microgram ZPP/g Hb). The ZPP/Hb ratio was determined in a lead-exposed population of 2275 men, and in 305 a blood lead analysis was also performed. A blood lead limit of 2.9 mumol/l (60 microgram/100 ml) corresponds to about 500 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (20 microgram/g). This limit was exceeded in workers engaged in secondary lead smelting, storage battery manufacture, car radiator repair, crystal glass manufacture, storage battery repair, ship breaking, metal foundries, the ceramic industry, scrap metal handling, and PVC plastic manufacture. Other occupations caused lower lead exposures with ZPP/Hb ratios between 110 and 500 mumol ZPP/mol Hb(Fe): such ratios were found in men from shooting ranges, in leaded pane manufacturers, gunsmiths, car paint sprayers, type setters, steel rolling mill workers, shipbuilders and welders, car mechanics, lead pigment handlers, and solderers. Increased ZPP/Hb ratios and blood lead levels in 210 workers were associated with a decrease in haemoglobin concentration in the blood. Thus, the haematofluorometer has proved to be very useful for screening purposes. A blood lead determination should be performed if the ZPP/Hb ratio exceeds 300 microgram ZPP/mol Hb(Fe) (12 microgram/g).", "PMID": 444441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6686", "title": "Bromine in blood, EEG and transaminases in methyl bromide workers.", "content": "In 33 methyl bromide users, slight electroencephalographic changes (in 10 subjects) and a small increase in serum transaminases were found which could be related to bromine concentration in blood. No relationship was found with subjective symptoms, general neurological examination or the results of serum protein electrophoresis.", "contents": "Bromine in blood, EEG and transaminases in methyl bromide workers. In 33 methyl bromide users, slight electroencephalographic changes (in 10 subjects) and a small increase in serum transaminases were found which could be related to bromine concentration in blood. No relationship was found with subjective symptoms, general neurological examination or the results of serum protein electrophoresis.", "PMID": 444442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6687", "title": "Dimethylformamide and alcohol intolerance.", "content": "Facial flushing and other symptoms were reported by 19 of a group of 102 men who worked with dimethylformamide (DMF). Twenty-six of the 34 episodes occurred after the workers had consumed alcoholic drinks. The metabolite N-methylformamide (MF) was detected in the urine on 45 occasions, the highest recorded concentration being 77 microliter/litre. The highest recorded concentration of DMF in air was 200 ppm. The DMF-ethanol reaction is possibly attributable to the inhibition of acetaldehyde metabolism, probably by MF.", "contents": "Dimethylformamide and alcohol intolerance. Facial flushing and other symptoms were reported by 19 of a group of 102 men who worked with dimethylformamide (DMF). Twenty-six of the 34 episodes occurred after the workers had consumed alcoholic drinks. The metabolite N-methylformamide (MF) was detected in the urine on 45 occasions, the highest recorded concentration being 77 microliter/litre. The highest recorded concentration of DMF in air was 200 ppm. The DMF-ethanol reaction is possibly attributable to the inhibition of acetaldehyde metabolism, probably by MF.", "PMID": 444443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6688", "title": "Counterion-induced condesation of deoxyribonucleic acid. a light-scattering study.", "content": "The addition of the trivalent or tetravalent cations spermidine or spermine to a solution of T7 DNA in aqueous solution causes an alteration of the DNA from its extended coil form to a condensed form. If performed at low DNA concentration and at low ionic strengths, this transformation results in a monomolecular collapse to form a particle with a hydrodynamic radius of about 500 A. We have monitored this change using quasielastic and total intensity light scattering. In a solution of 50% methanol in water, the divalent cations Mg2+ and putrescine also can cause the condensation of DNA. Using Manning's (1978) counterion condensation theory, we calculate a striking unity among these disparate ions: the collapse occurs in each case when from 89 to 90% of the DNA phosphate charges are neutralized by condensed counterions.", "contents": "Counterion-induced condesation of deoxyribonucleic acid. a light-scattering study. The addition of the trivalent or tetravalent cations spermidine or spermine to a solution of T7 DNA in aqueous solution causes an alteration of the DNA from its extended coil form to a condensed form. If performed at low DNA concentration and at low ionic strengths, this transformation results in a monomolecular collapse to form a particle with a hydrodynamic radius of about 500 A. We have monitored this change using quasielastic and total intensity light scattering. In a solution of 50% methanol in water, the divalent cations Mg2+ and putrescine also can cause the condensation of DNA. Using Manning's (1978) counterion condensation theory, we calculate a striking unity among these disparate ions: the collapse occurs in each case when from 89 to 90% of the DNA phosphate charges are neutralized by condensed counterions.", "PMID": 444448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6689", "title": "Chemical, physical-chemical, and immunological properties of papain-solubilized human transplatation antigens.", "content": "Papain-solubilized HLA-A, -B, and -C antigens have been isolated from cadaveric spleens. The isolated material was homogeneous and comprised subunits with the apparent molecular weights 33,000 and 12,000. Amino acid analyses of a mixture of HLA antigen heavy chains obtained from a great number of spleens with different HLA antigen phenotypes revealed a composition that is very similar to that of individual HLA-A and -B antigens. Likewise, the NH2-terminal 30 residues of the HLA-antigen heavy chain mixture were virtually identical with that recorded for individual specificities. The circular dichroism spectra for the isolated HLA antigens and for free beta2-microglobulin revealed similarities with spectra recorded for immunoglobulin chains and domains. The HLA-antigen heavy chain may contain an appreciable amount of beta structure. Antibodies raised against free beta2-microglobulin react better with beta2-microglobulin in free form than when bound to the HLA-A, -B, and -C antigen heavy chains. This is due to the fact that free beta2-microglobulin can bind a maximum of four Fab fragments simultaneously, whereas the HLA-antigen-associated beta2-microglobulin can bind only two Fab fragments without dissociating from the heavy HLA-antigen subunit.", "contents": "Chemical, physical-chemical, and immunological properties of papain-solubilized human transplatation antigens. Papain-solubilized HLA-A, -B, and -C antigens have been isolated from cadaveric spleens. The isolated material was homogeneous and comprised subunits with the apparent molecular weights 33,000 and 12,000. Amino acid analyses of a mixture of HLA antigen heavy chains obtained from a great number of spleens with different HLA antigen phenotypes revealed a composition that is very similar to that of individual HLA-A and -B antigens. Likewise, the NH2-terminal 30 residues of the HLA-antigen heavy chain mixture were virtually identical with that recorded for individual specificities. The circular dichroism spectra for the isolated HLA antigens and for free beta2-microglobulin revealed similarities with spectra recorded for immunoglobulin chains and domains. The HLA-antigen heavy chain may contain an appreciable amount of beta structure. Antibodies raised against free beta2-microglobulin react better with beta2-microglobulin in free form than when bound to the HLA-A, -B, and -C antigen heavy chains. This is due to the fact that free beta2-microglobulin can bind a maximum of four Fab fragments simultaneously, whereas the HLA-antigen-associated beta2-microglobulin can bind only two Fab fragments without dissociating from the heavy HLA-antigen subunit.", "PMID": 444449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6690", "title": "Isolation, purification, and reconstitution of a proline carrier protein from Mycobacterium phlei.", "content": "Membrane vesicles from Mycobacterium phlei contain carrier proteins for proline, glutamine, and glutamic acid. The transport of proline is Na+ dependent and required substrate oxidation. A proline carrier protein was solubilized from the membrane vesicles by treatment with cholate and Triton X-100. Electron microscopic observation of the detergent-treated membrane vesicles showed that they are closed structures. The detergent-extracted proteins were purified by means of sucrose density gradient centrifugation, followed by gel filtration and isoelectric focusing. A single protein with a molecular weight of 20,000 +/- 1000 was found on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Reconstitution of proline transport was demonstrated when the purified protein was incubated with the detergent-extracted membrane vesicles. This reconstituted transport system was specific for proline and required substrate oxidation and Na+. The purified protein was also incorporated into liposomes, and proline uptake was demonstrated when energy was supplied as a membrane potential introduced by K+ diffusion via valinomycin. The uptake of proline was Na+ dependent and was inhibited by uncoupler or by sulfhydryl reagents.", "contents": "Isolation, purification, and reconstitution of a proline carrier protein from Mycobacterium phlei. Membrane vesicles from Mycobacterium phlei contain carrier proteins for proline, glutamine, and glutamic acid. The transport of proline is Na+ dependent and required substrate oxidation. A proline carrier protein was solubilized from the membrane vesicles by treatment with cholate and Triton X-100. Electron microscopic observation of the detergent-treated membrane vesicles showed that they are closed structures. The detergent-extracted proteins were purified by means of sucrose density gradient centrifugation, followed by gel filtration and isoelectric focusing. A single protein with a molecular weight of 20,000 +/- 1000 was found on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Reconstitution of proline transport was demonstrated when the purified protein was incubated with the detergent-extracted membrane vesicles. This reconstituted transport system was specific for proline and required substrate oxidation and Na+. The purified protein was also incorporated into liposomes, and proline uptake was demonstrated when energy was supplied as a membrane potential introduced by K+ diffusion via valinomycin. The uptake of proline was Na+ dependent and was inhibited by uncoupler or by sulfhydryl reagents.", "PMID": 444450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6691", "title": "Structure of potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor: disulfide pairing and exposure of aromatic residues.", "content": "The determination of the covalent structure of a carboxypeptidase inhibitor from potatoes containing 39 amino acid residues has been completed by analysis of the pairing of the six half-cystine residues. Since the native inhibitor is resistant to fragmentation by proteases, the protein was first subjected to cleavage at aspartic acid residues by exposure to 0.03 N HCl at 110 degrees C for 10h to yield a fragment containing two chains (residues 6-15 and residues 18-39)held together by three disulfide bonds. Digestion with subtilisin and Pronase, respectively, yielded sets of peptides from which, by diagonal electrophoresis and amino acid analysis, the paired cystinyl residues were identified as Cys-8 to Cys-24, Cys-12 to Cys-27, and Cys-18 to Cys-34. Charge-transfer titration of the native inhibitor with N-methylnicotinamide chloride suggests that one of the two tryptophan residues and the single tyrosine residue are exposed to the solvent.", "contents": "Structure of potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor: disulfide pairing and exposure of aromatic residues. The determination of the covalent structure of a carboxypeptidase inhibitor from potatoes containing 39 amino acid residues has been completed by analysis of the pairing of the six half-cystine residues. Since the native inhibitor is resistant to fragmentation by proteases, the protein was first subjected to cleavage at aspartic acid residues by exposure to 0.03 N HCl at 110 degrees C for 10h to yield a fragment containing two chains (residues 6-15 and residues 18-39)held together by three disulfide bonds. Digestion with subtilisin and Pronase, respectively, yielded sets of peptides from which, by diagonal electrophoresis and amino acid analysis, the paired cystinyl residues were identified as Cys-8 to Cys-24, Cys-12 to Cys-27, and Cys-18 to Cys-34. Charge-transfer titration of the native inhibitor with N-methylnicotinamide chloride suggests that one of the two tryptophan residues and the single tyrosine residue are exposed to the solvent.", "PMID": 444453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6692", "title": "Lateral diffusion of M-13 coat protein in model membranes.", "content": "A fluorescent derivative of the M-13 phage coat protein (molecular weight 5260) was reconsituted into oriented multilayers and giant liposomes of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine. The rate of lateral diffusion of the labeled protein in the fluid phase was measured as a function of temperature and found to be comparable to that of lipid probes. The protein was found to have a nonuniform lateral distribution in the solid phase of both types of model membranes. Cardiolipin (0.5 mol %) included in the multibilayers did not have any substantial effect upon the rate of diffusion.", "contents": "Lateral diffusion of M-13 coat protein in model membranes. A fluorescent derivative of the M-13 phage coat protein (molecular weight 5260) was reconsituted into oriented multilayers and giant liposomes of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine. The rate of lateral diffusion of the labeled protein in the fluid phase was measured as a function of temperature and found to be comparable to that of lipid probes. The protein was found to have a nonuniform lateral distribution in the solid phase of both types of model membranes. Cardiolipin (0.5 mol %) included in the multibilayers did not have any substantial effect upon the rate of diffusion.", "PMID": 444454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6693", "title": "Triplet state of tryptophan in proteins. 2. Differentiation between tryptophan residues 62 and 108 in lysozyme.", "content": "We have used optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) to characterize the degree of solvent availability of the tryptophan residues in lysozyme that are likely to be responsible for the observed phosphorescence. From the phosphorescence spectra, ODMR zero-field splittings (zfs), and ODMR line widths, we concur with the X-ray structure [Blake, C. C., Mair, G. A., North, A. C. T., Phillips, D. C., & Sarma, V. R. (1967) Proc. R. Soc. London, ser. B 167, 365-377] that Trp-62 behaves as an exposed residue and Trp-108 is buried. In addition, we present evidence that ODMR can be used in conjunction with conventional phosphorescence to evaluate the degree of order in the microenvironments of tryptophan in a protein containing several tryptophans. By the specific modification of residues Trp-62 and Trp-108, we have identified those portions of the ODMR lines in the native enzyme that are due to those specific residues. Barring major enzyme conformational changes in the vicinity of unmodified tryptophan residues when Trp-62 or Trp-108 are selectively modified, we find that Trp-108 dominates both the phosphorescence and the ODMR signals in native lysozyme. The results are discussed in view of previous fluorescence findings.", "contents": "Triplet state of tryptophan in proteins. 2. Differentiation between tryptophan residues 62 and 108 in lysozyme. We have used optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) to characterize the degree of solvent availability of the tryptophan residues in lysozyme that are likely to be responsible for the observed phosphorescence. From the phosphorescence spectra, ODMR zero-field splittings (zfs), and ODMR line widths, we concur with the X-ray structure [Blake, C. C., Mair, G. A., North, A. C. T., Phillips, D. C., & Sarma, V. R. (1967) Proc. R. Soc. London, ser. B 167, 365-377] that Trp-62 behaves as an exposed residue and Trp-108 is buried. In addition, we present evidence that ODMR can be used in conjunction with conventional phosphorescence to evaluate the degree of order in the microenvironments of tryptophan in a protein containing several tryptophans. By the specific modification of residues Trp-62 and Trp-108, we have identified those portions of the ODMR lines in the native enzyme that are due to those specific residues. Barring major enzyme conformational changes in the vicinity of unmodified tryptophan residues when Trp-62 or Trp-108 are selectively modified, we find that Trp-108 dominates both the phosphorescence and the ODMR signals in native lysozyme. The results are discussed in view of previous fluorescence findings.", "PMID": 444457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6694", "title": "Chemical and enzymatic intermediates in the peroxidation of o-dianisidine by horseradish peroxidase. 2. Evidence for a substrate radical--enzyme complex and its reaction with nucleophiles.", "content": "Changes in the optical absorption spectrum of horseradish peroxidase, during the oxidation of o-dianisidine at pH 7.5, reveal an intermediate distinct from the previously described compounds I and II. The rate of decay of this new complex appeared to be rate limiting for the catalytic cycle, in this pH range, since imidazole, which augments the catalytic reaction, also enhanced the rate of decay of this complex. Nitrogenous compounds reportedly unable to ligate to hemes, such as 2-methylimidazole and benzimidazole, were nevertheless capable of augmenting the HRP-catalyzed rate of oxidation of o-dianisidine. The activity of nitrogenous compounds, in this regard, appeared to be a function of their nucleophilicity and was sensitive to steric factors but relatively free of a deuterium solvent isotope effect. The data presented in this and in the preceding paper [Claiborne, A., & Fridovich, I. (1979) Biochemistry 18 (preceding paper in this issue)] lead to the suggestion that the nucleophile-responsive intermediate is an enzyme--dianisidine radical complex and that abstraction of the second electron from the bound radical is facilitated by binding of nitrogenous nucleophiles.", "contents": "Chemical and enzymatic intermediates in the peroxidation of o-dianisidine by horseradish peroxidase. 2. Evidence for a substrate radical--enzyme complex and its reaction with nucleophiles. Changes in the optical absorption spectrum of horseradish peroxidase, during the oxidation of o-dianisidine at pH 7.5, reveal an intermediate distinct from the previously described compounds I and II. The rate of decay of this new complex appeared to be rate limiting for the catalytic cycle, in this pH range, since imidazole, which augments the catalytic reaction, also enhanced the rate of decay of this complex. Nitrogenous compounds reportedly unable to ligate to hemes, such as 2-methylimidazole and benzimidazole, were nevertheless capable of augmenting the HRP-catalyzed rate of oxidation of o-dianisidine. The activity of nitrogenous compounds, in this regard, appeared to be a function of their nucleophilicity and was sensitive to steric factors but relatively free of a deuterium solvent isotope effect. The data presented in this and in the preceding paper [Claiborne, A., & Fridovich, I. (1979) Biochemistry 18 (preceding paper in this issue)] lead to the suggestion that the nucleophile-responsive intermediate is an enzyme--dianisidine radical complex and that abstraction of the second electron from the bound radical is facilitated by binding of nitrogenous nucleophiles.", "PMID": 444459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6695", "title": "Estrogen-binding proteins of calf uterus. Purification to homogeneity of receptor from cytosol by affinity chromatography.", "content": "The estrogen receptor has been purified to homogeneity from calf uterus cytosol by sequential affinity chromatography by using heparin--Sepharose 4B and 17-hemisuccinyl-17beta-estradiol-ovalbumin--Sepharose 4B. The procedure yields about 1.2 mg of receptor protein from 1 kg of calf uteri, with a recovery of 53%. The receptor protein, as a complex with 17beta-[3H]estradiol, is purified more than 99%. A single band is seen on polyacrylamide gel ectrophoresis under nondenaturing conditions. 17beta-[3H]Estradiol comigrates with the protein band. As computed from the specific activity of radioactive hormone, 64,450 g of purified receptor protein binds 1 mol of 17beta-estradiol. 17beta-[3H]Estradiol bound to the protein is displaced by estrogenic steriods but not by progesterone, testosterone, or cortisone. As judged by chromatography on calibrated Sephadex G-200 columns, the purified receptor is identical with native receptor in crude cytosol: both show a Stokes radius of 6.4 nm. On sucrose gradient in low-salt buffer, the purified receptor sediments at 8 S. On electrophoresis in NaDodSO4 gels, the purified receptor migrates as a single protein band with an apparent molecular weight of 70,000. The sedimentation coefficient measured on sucrose gradients in the presence of chaotropic salts [1 M NaBr or NaSCN (0.1 M)] is 4.2 S. We conclude that the estrogen receptor of cytosol consists of a single subunit weighing about 70,000 daltons and endowed with one estrogen binding site. Under native conditions in cytosol, several subunits associate to form a quaternary structure with a Stokes radius of 6.4 nm.", "contents": "Estrogen-binding proteins of calf uterus. Purification to homogeneity of receptor from cytosol by affinity chromatography. The estrogen receptor has been purified to homogeneity from calf uterus cytosol by sequential affinity chromatography by using heparin--Sepharose 4B and 17-hemisuccinyl-17beta-estradiol-ovalbumin--Sepharose 4B. The procedure yields about 1.2 mg of receptor protein from 1 kg of calf uteri, with a recovery of 53%. The receptor protein, as a complex with 17beta-[3H]estradiol, is purified more than 99%. A single band is seen on polyacrylamide gel ectrophoresis under nondenaturing conditions. 17beta-[3H]Estradiol comigrates with the protein band. As computed from the specific activity of radioactive hormone, 64,450 g of purified receptor protein binds 1 mol of 17beta-estradiol. 17beta-[3H]Estradiol bound to the protein is displaced by estrogenic steriods but not by progesterone, testosterone, or cortisone. As judged by chromatography on calibrated Sephadex G-200 columns, the purified receptor is identical with native receptor in crude cytosol: both show a Stokes radius of 6.4 nm. On sucrose gradient in low-salt buffer, the purified receptor sediments at 8 S. On electrophoresis in NaDodSO4 gels, the purified receptor migrates as a single protein band with an apparent molecular weight of 70,000. The sedimentation coefficient measured on sucrose gradients in the presence of chaotropic salts [1 M NaBr or NaSCN (0.1 M)] is 4.2 S. We conclude that the estrogen receptor of cytosol consists of a single subunit weighing about 70,000 daltons and endowed with one estrogen binding site. Under native conditions in cytosol, several subunits associate to form a quaternary structure with a Stokes radius of 6.4 nm.", "PMID": 444462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6696", "title": "Effects of thio-group modification and Ca2+ on agonist-specific state transitions of a central nicotinic acetylcholine receptor.", "content": "Agonist-binding affinities of central nervous system nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAcChR) are sensitive to the duration of exposure to agonist. These agonist-induced changes in receptor state may be mimicked by appropriate modification of receptor thio groups and/or by manipulation of solvent ionic composition. In the absence of Ca2+, the concentration of acetylcholine (AcCh) necessary to prevent half of specific 3H-labeled alpha-bungarotoxin binding is approximately 1 mM for nAcChR treated with dithiothreitol (DTT) or DTT-N-ethylmaleimide (low-affinity states) and approximately 40 microM for nAcChR treated with DTT-5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) or for native nAcChR pretreated with AcCh (high-affinity states). Addition of Ca2+ results in an increase in the effectiveness of AcCh toward blocking toxin binding. None of these treatments alters toxin or antagonist binding nor are there observed differences in Hill numbers for agonist binding. Agonists competitively inhibit toxin binding to low-affinity states, but noncompetitive inhibition is observed for binding to high-affinity states. Values of AcCh dissociation constants estimated from these data fall within the range of values determined physiologically with nAcChR from other systems. The data indicate that the redox state of brain nAcChR thio groups and Ca2+ may mediate physiologically important changes in the receptor state during activation and desensitization.", "contents": "Effects of thio-group modification and Ca2+ on agonist-specific state transitions of a central nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Agonist-binding affinities of central nervous system nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAcChR) are sensitive to the duration of exposure to agonist. These agonist-induced changes in receptor state may be mimicked by appropriate modification of receptor thio groups and/or by manipulation of solvent ionic composition. In the absence of Ca2+, the concentration of acetylcholine (AcCh) necessary to prevent half of specific 3H-labeled alpha-bungarotoxin binding is approximately 1 mM for nAcChR treated with dithiothreitol (DTT) or DTT-N-ethylmaleimide (low-affinity states) and approximately 40 microM for nAcChR treated with DTT-5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) or for native nAcChR pretreated with AcCh (high-affinity states). Addition of Ca2+ results in an increase in the effectiveness of AcCh toward blocking toxin binding. None of these treatments alters toxin or antagonist binding nor are there observed differences in Hill numbers for agonist binding. Agonists competitively inhibit toxin binding to low-affinity states, but noncompetitive inhibition is observed for binding to high-affinity states. Values of AcCh dissociation constants estimated from these data fall within the range of values determined physiologically with nAcChR from other systems. The data indicate that the redox state of brain nAcChR thio groups and Ca2+ may mediate physiologically important changes in the receptor state during activation and desensitization.", "PMID": 444464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6697", "title": "Relaxation kinetics of glutamate dehydrogenase self-association by pressure perturbation.", "content": "The kinetics of self-association for beef liver glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3) have been measured by using pressure perturbation in both the time domain and the frequency domain by monitoring scattered light intensity. The kinetic behavior is entirely consistent with the random self-association model proposed by Thusius et al. [Thusius, D., Dessen, P., & Jallon, J. M. (1975) J. Mol. Biol. 92, 413--432]. The activation volume deltaV for association is estimated to be positive, and it is shown that this provides further corroboration of the molecular mechanism advanced by these same authors. A rapid shift in scattered light intensity is attributed to preferential interaction between the phosphate anion and the protein, proceeding with a positive volume change (2--5 mL/mol of phosphate). A description of the instrument developed for this study is also included.", "contents": "Relaxation kinetics of glutamate dehydrogenase self-association by pressure perturbation. The kinetics of self-association for beef liver glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3) have been measured by using pressure perturbation in both the time domain and the frequency domain by monitoring scattered light intensity. The kinetic behavior is entirely consistent with the random self-association model proposed by Thusius et al. [Thusius, D., Dessen, P., & Jallon, J. M. (1975) J. Mol. Biol. 92, 413--432]. The activation volume deltaV for association is estimated to be positive, and it is shown that this provides further corroboration of the molecular mechanism advanced by these same authors. A rapid shift in scattered light intensity is attributed to preferential interaction between the phosphate anion and the protein, proceeding with a positive volume change (2--5 mL/mol of phosphate). A description of the instrument developed for this study is also included.", "PMID": 444470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6698", "title": "Separation of tubulin from microtubule-associated proteins on phosphocellulose. Accompanying alterations in concentrations of buffer components.", "content": "Tubulin can be conveniently separated from the microtubule-associated proteins by chromatography on phosphocellulose [Weingarten, M. D., Lockwood, A. H., Hwo, S.-Y., & Kirschner, M. W. (1975) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 72, 1858]. Concentrations of Mg2+, GTP, GDP, and glycerol were measured in the various fractions collected during several such separations. The phosphocellulose was found to sequester Mg2+ under the conditions employed for the separation and to retard GTP, GDP, and glycerol relative to tubulin. Polymerization of the resulting phosphocellulose-tubulin was found to be inhibited by this Mg2+ depletion. The composition of the buffer in which tubulin emerges from the chromatographic column was found to depend in a sensitive way upon the retardation of the other components of the buffer and to be a sensitive function of the width of the pooled tubulin peak and of the ratio of the volume of the chromatographic column to that of the column load. The bearing of these findings on interpretation of existing literature is briefly discussed. Efficient separation of tubulin from microtubule-associated proteins can also be obtained on phosphocellulose columns that have been saturated with Mg2+. Such saturation of the column, or addition of Mg2+ to the collected fractions, followed by equilibration of the tubulin with known buffer, is suggested as an improvement to the preparative scheme.", "contents": "Separation of tubulin from microtubule-associated proteins on phosphocellulose. Accompanying alterations in concentrations of buffer components. Tubulin can be conveniently separated from the microtubule-associated proteins by chromatography on phosphocellulose [Weingarten, M. D., Lockwood, A. H., Hwo, S.-Y., & Kirschner, M. W. (1975) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 72, 1858]. Concentrations of Mg2+, GTP, GDP, and glycerol were measured in the various fractions collected during several such separations. The phosphocellulose was found to sequester Mg2+ under the conditions employed for the separation and to retard GTP, GDP, and glycerol relative to tubulin. Polymerization of the resulting phosphocellulose-tubulin was found to be inhibited by this Mg2+ depletion. The composition of the buffer in which tubulin emerges from the chromatographic column was found to depend in a sensitive way upon the retardation of the other components of the buffer and to be a sensitive function of the width of the pooled tubulin peak and of the ratio of the volume of the chromatographic column to that of the column load. The bearing of these findings on interpretation of existing literature is briefly discussed. Efficient separation of tubulin from microtubule-associated proteins can also be obtained on phosphocellulose columns that have been saturated with Mg2+. Such saturation of the column, or addition of Mg2+ to the collected fractions, followed by equilibration of the tubulin with known buffer, is suggested as an improvement to the preparative scheme.", "PMID": 444471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6699", "title": "Interactions of long-chain aldehydes with luciferase. A carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance study.", "content": "The interaction of long-chain aldehydes with bacterial luciferase has been studied by 13C NMR spectroscopy of natural-abundance and 13C-enriched 1-dodecanal. At high substrate/enzyme ratios, the spin-spin relaxation rates of C(1)-C(3) are faster than for the other carbons and are in the order C(1) greater than C(2) greater than C(3). The aldehyde is strongly bound in the active site along the entire length of the alkyl chain with the strongest interaction at the CHO group. At low substrate/enzyme ratios, interactions are apparent at C(10), which are removed upon denaturation of the enzyme. Spin-spin and spin-lattice relaxation rates were measured for odd-carbon 13C-enriched 1-dodecanal in the presence of luciferase. From the ratios of T1/T2 a single value of (1.8 +/- 0.7) X 10(-8) s was calculated for the rotational correlation time tc for the complex.", "contents": "Interactions of long-chain aldehydes with luciferase. A carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance study. The interaction of long-chain aldehydes with bacterial luciferase has been studied by 13C NMR spectroscopy of natural-abundance and 13C-enriched 1-dodecanal. At high substrate/enzyme ratios, the spin-spin relaxation rates of C(1)-C(3) are faster than for the other carbons and are in the order C(1) greater than C(2) greater than C(3). The aldehyde is strongly bound in the active site along the entire length of the alkyl chain with the strongest interaction at the CHO group. At low substrate/enzyme ratios, interactions are apparent at C(10), which are removed upon denaturation of the enzyme. Spin-spin and spin-lattice relaxation rates were measured for odd-carbon 13C-enriched 1-dodecanal in the presence of luciferase. From the ratios of T1/T2 a single value of (1.8 +/- 0.7) X 10(-8) s was calculated for the rotational correlation time tc for the complex.", "PMID": 444472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6700", "title": "Hemocyanin from the Australian freshwater crayfish Cherax destructor. Electron microscopy of native and reassembled molecules.", "content": "Examination and measurement of electron micrographs of negatively stained hemocyanin molecules from Cherax destructor show that the predominant aggregated forms, the 16S and 24S components, are typical structures for arthropod hexamers and dodecamers, respectively. In Cherax hemocyanin the hexamers are formed from the monomeric (Mr congruent to 75,000) subunits, M1 and M2, while the dodecamers contain in addition a dimeric (Mr congruent to 150,000) subunit, M3'. Studies of the composition of solutions of the subunits M1 and m2 to which calcium ions have been added at pH 7.8 show that, under these conditions, reassembly occurs to particles indistinguishable from native hexamers. It is noteworthy that dodecamers are not seen since this confirms the previous suggestion that incorporation of the dimeric subunit in the assembly process is necessary for their formation. The results obtained from Cherax hemocyanin are related to those of previous structural studies of arthropod hemocyanins. In particular, the possible controlling role of certain specific subunits in arthropod hemocyanin oligomers containing more than one kind of subunit is illustrated with a model for the Cherax dodecamer, in which the dimeric subunit is shared between the two halves of the molecule.", "contents": "Hemocyanin from the Australian freshwater crayfish Cherax destructor. Electron microscopy of native and reassembled molecules. Examination and measurement of electron micrographs of negatively stained hemocyanin molecules from Cherax destructor show that the predominant aggregated forms, the 16S and 24S components, are typical structures for arthropod hexamers and dodecamers, respectively. In Cherax hemocyanin the hexamers are formed from the monomeric (Mr congruent to 75,000) subunits, M1 and M2, while the dodecamers contain in addition a dimeric (Mr congruent to 150,000) subunit, M3'. Studies of the composition of solutions of the subunits M1 and m2 to which calcium ions have been added at pH 7.8 show that, under these conditions, reassembly occurs to particles indistinguishable from native hexamers. It is noteworthy that dodecamers are not seen since this confirms the previous suggestion that incorporation of the dimeric subunit in the assembly process is necessary for their formation. The results obtained from Cherax hemocyanin are related to those of previous structural studies of arthropod hemocyanins. In particular, the possible controlling role of certain specific subunits in arthropod hemocyanin oligomers containing more than one kind of subunit is illustrated with a model for the Cherax dodecamer, in which the dimeric subunit is shared between the two halves of the molecule.", "PMID": 444473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6701", "title": "Structure of the tryptic glycopeptide isolated from rabbit transferrin.", "content": "The structure of the tryptic glycopeptide isolated from rabbit transferrin was elucidated by use of sequential Edman degradations, specific exoglycosidases, endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidases, methylation analyses, and periodate oxidation studies. The glycopeptide consists of a heteropolysaccharide, AcNeualpha2 leads to 6Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 2Manalpha1 leads to 3[AcNeualpha2 leads to 6Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 2Manalpha1 leads to 6]-Manbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAc, attached to a peptide, Asn-Ser-Ser-Leu-Cys, via a linkage involving N-acetyl-glucosamine and asparagine. The stoichiometry of this glycopeptide is 2 mol/mol of protein, indicating that rabbit transferrin contains two structurally identical glycopeptide segments.", "contents": "Structure of the tryptic glycopeptide isolated from rabbit transferrin. The structure of the tryptic glycopeptide isolated from rabbit transferrin was elucidated by use of sequential Edman degradations, specific exoglycosidases, endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidases, methylation analyses, and periodate oxidation studies. The glycopeptide consists of a heteropolysaccharide, AcNeualpha2 leads to 6Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 2Manalpha1 leads to 3[AcNeualpha2 leads to 6Galbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 2Manalpha1 leads to 6]-Manbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAcbeta1 leads to 4GlcNAc, attached to a peptide, Asn-Ser-Ser-Leu-Cys, via a linkage involving N-acetyl-glucosamine and asparagine. The stoichiometry of this glycopeptide is 2 mol/mol of protein, indicating that rabbit transferrin contains two structurally identical glycopeptide segments.", "PMID": 444474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6702", "title": "Cytoplasmically inherited respiratory deficiency of a mouse fibroblast line which is resistant to rutamycin.", "content": "Mouse fibroblasts resistant to the drug rutamycin were isolated and found also to be respiratory deficient. These cells produce large amounts of lactic acid, and oxygen consumption data indicate that the first complex of the electron transport chain, NADH-coenzyme Q reductase, is defective. Levels of rotenone-sensitive NADH-cytochrome c reductase and pyruvate decarboxylase of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex are markedly depressed in the mutant cells. Other components of the electron transport chain appear to be fully functional. The mutant cells were enucleated and fused with another cell line, and the resulting cybrid demonstrated a similar pattern of respiratory deficiency as did the original mutant. These results indicate that this defect in respiration is a cytoplasmically inherited characteristic in this cell line.", "contents": "Cytoplasmically inherited respiratory deficiency of a mouse fibroblast line which is resistant to rutamycin. Mouse fibroblasts resistant to the drug rutamycin were isolated and found also to be respiratory deficient. These cells produce large amounts of lactic acid, and oxygen consumption data indicate that the first complex of the electron transport chain, NADH-coenzyme Q reductase, is defective. Levels of rotenone-sensitive NADH-cytochrome c reductase and pyruvate decarboxylase of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex are markedly depressed in the mutant cells. Other components of the electron transport chain appear to be fully functional. The mutant cells were enucleated and fused with another cell line, and the resulting cybrid demonstrated a similar pattern of respiratory deficiency as did the original mutant. These results indicate that this defect in respiration is a cytoplasmically inherited characteristic in this cell line.", "PMID": 444478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6703", "title": "Metabolism of S-adenosylhomocysteine and S-tubercidinylhomocysteine in neuroblastoma cells.", "content": "The metabolism of the methylase product inhibitor S-adenosylhomocysteine and its 7-deaza analogue S-tubercidinylhomocysteine has been studied in cultured N-18 neuroblastoma cells. The latter compound, designed to resist metabolic degradation, has been shown to be inert under the same conditions where S-adenosylhomocysteine is rapidly and extensively degraded. The product analyses elucidated by high-performance liquid chromatography indicate that the primary route of S-[8-(14)C]adenosylhomocysteine metabolism in these cells leads to adenosine. This product does not accumulate but is rapidly converted to nucleotides or oxypurines by the action of adenosine kinase and adenosine deaminase, respectively. The presence of the potent adenosine deaminase inhibitor coformycin leads to a pronounced inhibition of oxypurine formation, an increase in nucleotide formation, and a slight accumulation of the primary metabolic products adenosine and adenine.", "contents": "Metabolism of S-adenosylhomocysteine and S-tubercidinylhomocysteine in neuroblastoma cells. The metabolism of the methylase product inhibitor S-adenosylhomocysteine and its 7-deaza analogue S-tubercidinylhomocysteine has been studied in cultured N-18 neuroblastoma cells. The latter compound, designed to resist metabolic degradation, has been shown to be inert under the same conditions where S-adenosylhomocysteine is rapidly and extensively degraded. The product analyses elucidated by high-performance liquid chromatography indicate that the primary route of S-[8-(14)C]adenosylhomocysteine metabolism in these cells leads to adenosine. This product does not accumulate but is rapidly converted to nucleotides or oxypurines by the action of adenosine kinase and adenosine deaminase, respectively. The presence of the potent adenosine deaminase inhibitor coformycin leads to a pronounced inhibition of oxypurine formation, an increase in nucleotide formation, and a slight accumulation of the primary metabolic products adenosine and adenine.", "PMID": 444479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6704", "title": "Spectroscopic and kinetic analysis of a monoclonal IgG cryoglobulin. Effect of mild reduction on cryoprecipitation.", "content": "The precipitation of a monoclonal IgG2 crystalline cryoglobulin (WEB) is shown to be highly dependent on temperature and concentration. Below a critical concentration of 0.6 mg/mL there is no cryoprecipitation. The kinetics of the aggregation exhibits a concentration-dependent lag time. This evidence suggests that a nucleation event is important in the precipitation. Circular dichroism (CD) was used to investigate the conformational properties of the protein. At a low concentration (0.12 or 0.15 mg/mL), no detectable spectral changes in the far- and near-UV range were noted between 40 and 3 degrees C. However, at higher concentrations (1.21 mg/mL), a small and rapid CD change was observed in the 250-280-nm region at 3 degrees C. This indicates an intermolecular interaction that precedes the precipitation. Cryoprecipitation of WEB was also shown to be dependent on maintenance of intact interchain disulfide bonds. Only one or two interchain disulfides need be cleaved to abolish cryocrystallization and to significantly diminish the CD change at 3 degrees C. The evidence is consistent with the formation of an initial intermediate that involves interactions near the disulfide bonds in the hinge region of the cryoimmunoglobulin. In this model, cleavage of these disulfides prevents this interaction and abolishes cryoprecipitation.", "contents": "Spectroscopic and kinetic analysis of a monoclonal IgG cryoglobulin. Effect of mild reduction on cryoprecipitation. The precipitation of a monoclonal IgG2 crystalline cryoglobulin (WEB) is shown to be highly dependent on temperature and concentration. Below a critical concentration of 0.6 mg/mL there is no cryoprecipitation. The kinetics of the aggregation exhibits a concentration-dependent lag time. This evidence suggests that a nucleation event is important in the precipitation. Circular dichroism (CD) was used to investigate the conformational properties of the protein. At a low concentration (0.12 or 0.15 mg/mL), no detectable spectral changes in the far- and near-UV range were noted between 40 and 3 degrees C. However, at higher concentrations (1.21 mg/mL), a small and rapid CD change was observed in the 250-280-nm region at 3 degrees C. This indicates an intermolecular interaction that precedes the precipitation. Cryoprecipitation of WEB was also shown to be dependent on maintenance of intact interchain disulfide bonds. Only one or two interchain disulfides need be cleaved to abolish cryocrystallization and to significantly diminish the CD change at 3 degrees C. The evidence is consistent with the formation of an initial intermediate that involves interactions near the disulfide bonds in the hinge region of the cryoimmunoglobulin. In this model, cleavage of these disulfides prevents this interaction and abolishes cryoprecipitation.", "PMID": 444480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6705", "title": "Association of messenger ribonucleic acid with mammalian microsomal membranes: characterization by analysis of cell-free translation products.", "content": "Total rough microsomes, isolated from the dog pancreas, were stripped of membranes-bound polysomes by treatment with either EDTA or puromycin and 0.5 M KCl. The stripped microsomal membranes were isolated relatively free from contamination, by using buoyant density centrifugation, and mRNA was isolated from both the membrane fraction and the released material. Depending on the method used to strip the rough microsomes, we found a variable but small percentage (3--15%) of the cellular poly(A)-containing mRNA attached to the microsomal membranes. Reextraction of isolated microsomal membranes with puromycin and 0.5 M KCl reduced the content of membrane-associated mRNA by approximately 50%, resulting in less than 2% of the total membrane-bound polysomal mRNA remaining associated with the microsomal membranes. The membrane-associated mRNA was characterized by translation in the wheat germ cell-free protein synthesizing system, and the products were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The translation products of the membrane-associated mRNA were identical with those from the total pancreas mRNA and also with those obtained by using mRNA isolated from material released directly from the rough microsomes.", "contents": "Association of messenger ribonucleic acid with mammalian microsomal membranes: characterization by analysis of cell-free translation products. Total rough microsomes, isolated from the dog pancreas, were stripped of membranes-bound polysomes by treatment with either EDTA or puromycin and 0.5 M KCl. The stripped microsomal membranes were isolated relatively free from contamination, by using buoyant density centrifugation, and mRNA was isolated from both the membrane fraction and the released material. Depending on the method used to strip the rough microsomes, we found a variable but small percentage (3--15%) of the cellular poly(A)-containing mRNA attached to the microsomal membranes. Reextraction of isolated microsomal membranes with puromycin and 0.5 M KCl reduced the content of membrane-associated mRNA by approximately 50%, resulting in less than 2% of the total membrane-bound polysomal mRNA remaining associated with the microsomal membranes. The membrane-associated mRNA was characterized by translation in the wheat germ cell-free protein synthesizing system, and the products were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The translation products of the membrane-associated mRNA were identical with those from the total pancreas mRNA and also with those obtained by using mRNA isolated from material released directly from the rough microsomes.", "PMID": 444481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6706", "title": "Stabilizing effect of cholesterol on phosphatidylcholine vesicles observed by ultrasonic velocity measurement.", "content": "The temperature dependence of the ultrasonic velocity was measured in sonicated vesicles of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine by varying the content of cholesterol. When cholesterol is incorporated, an anomalous dip of the ultrasonic velocity gradually smeared out. At the same time, the ultrasonic velocity of the membrane increased remarkably above 30 degrees C due to the increase of the bulk modulus by about 15%. On the other hand, the ultrasonic velocity and the bulk modulus decreased below 30 degrees C. Comparing the cholesterol-incorporated membrane with vesicles of bovine brain sphingomyelin and human erythrocyte membrane, we discuss the role of cholesterol in biological membranes in terms of the stability of the membrane as a barrier.", "contents": "Stabilizing effect of cholesterol on phosphatidylcholine vesicles observed by ultrasonic velocity measurement. The temperature dependence of the ultrasonic velocity was measured in sonicated vesicles of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine by varying the content of cholesterol. When cholesterol is incorporated, an anomalous dip of the ultrasonic velocity gradually smeared out. At the same time, the ultrasonic velocity of the membrane increased remarkably above 30 degrees C due to the increase of the bulk modulus by about 15%. On the other hand, the ultrasonic velocity and the bulk modulus decreased below 30 degrees C. Comparing the cholesterol-incorporated membrane with vesicles of bovine brain sphingomyelin and human erythrocyte membrane, we discuss the role of cholesterol in biological membranes in terms of the stability of the membrane as a barrier.", "PMID": 444482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6707", "title": "Protein--water interactions. Heat capacity of the lysozyme--water system.", "content": "Calorimetric measurements of the heat capacity of the lysozyme-water system have been carried out over the full range of system composition at 25 degrees C. The partial specific heat capacity of the protein in dilute solution is 1.483 +/- 0.009 J K-1 g-1. The heat capacity of the dry protein is 1.26 +/- 0.01 J K-1 g-1. The system heat capacity responds linearly to change in composition from dilute solution to 0.38 g of water per g of protein (h) and is an irregular function at lower water content. The break in the heat capacity function at 0.38 h defines the amount of water needed to develop the equilibrium solution properties of lysozyme as being 300 molecules of water/protein molecule, just sufficient for monolayer coverage. The heat capacity behavior at low water content describes three hydration regions. The most tightly bound water (0-0.07 h), probably principally bound to charged groups, is characterized by a partial specific heat capacity of 2.3 J K-1 g-1, a value close to that for ice. A heat of reaction associated with proton redistribution is reflected in the heat capacity function for the low-hydration region. Between 0.07 and 0.25 h the heat capacity increases strongly, which is understood to reflect the growth of patches of water covering polar and adjacent nonpolar portions of the protein surface. The hydration shell is completed by condensation of solvent over the weak-interacting portions of the surface, in a process displaying a transition heat.", "contents": "Protein--water interactions. Heat capacity of the lysozyme--water system. Calorimetric measurements of the heat capacity of the lysozyme-water system have been carried out over the full range of system composition at 25 degrees C. The partial specific heat capacity of the protein in dilute solution is 1.483 +/- 0.009 J K-1 g-1. The heat capacity of the dry protein is 1.26 +/- 0.01 J K-1 g-1. The system heat capacity responds linearly to change in composition from dilute solution to 0.38 g of water per g of protein (h) and is an irregular function at lower water content. The break in the heat capacity function at 0.38 h defines the amount of water needed to develop the equilibrium solution properties of lysozyme as being 300 molecules of water/protein molecule, just sufficient for monolayer coverage. The heat capacity behavior at low water content describes three hydration regions. The most tightly bound water (0-0.07 h), probably principally bound to charged groups, is characterized by a partial specific heat capacity of 2.3 J K-1 g-1, a value close to that for ice. A heat of reaction associated with proton redistribution is reflected in the heat capacity function for the low-hydration region. Between 0.07 and 0.25 h the heat capacity increases strongly, which is understood to reflect the growth of patches of water covering polar and adjacent nonpolar portions of the protein surface. The hydration shell is completed by condensation of solvent over the weak-interacting portions of the surface, in a process displaying a transition heat.", "PMID": 444485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6708", "title": "Cooperative binding of a platinum metallointercalation reagent to poly(A).poly(U).", "content": "The cationic complex (2-hydroxyethanethiolato)(2,2',2''-terpyridine)platinum(II), [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+, binds cooperatively to poly(A).poly(U) by intercalation. The melting temperature of poly(A).poly(U) in low-salt buffer is increased by 6 degrees C in the presence of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+, indicating stabilization of the duplex structure by the bound platinum reagent. Viscosity measurements provide evidence for comparable lengthening of the polynucleotide in the presence of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ and the intercalating dye, ethidium bromide. Scatchard plots of the binding of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ to poly(A).poly(U) and poly(I).poly(C), determined through ultracentrifugation pelleting methods, show large positive curvature, reflecting the strong cooperativity associated with the platinum complex-RNA interaction. The characteristics of the binding isotherms are interpreted in terms of a model where cooperative pair units of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ intercalate into the double-stranded polymer. At saturation, two platinum molecules are bound for every three base pairs. This stoichiometry may be compared with the nearest-neighbor-exclusion binding observed previously in the interaction of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ and the ethidium cation with DNA, in which one intercalator occupies every other interbase-pair site at saturation. The striking differences observed in the interaction of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ with DNA and RNA suggest that drug recognition is sensitive to the constraints imposed by nucleic acid secondary structure.", "contents": "Cooperative binding of a platinum metallointercalation reagent to poly(A).poly(U). The cationic complex (2-hydroxyethanethiolato)(2,2',2''-terpyridine)platinum(II), [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+, binds cooperatively to poly(A).poly(U) by intercalation. The melting temperature of poly(A).poly(U) in low-salt buffer is increased by 6 degrees C in the presence of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+, indicating stabilization of the duplex structure by the bound platinum reagent. Viscosity measurements provide evidence for comparable lengthening of the polynucleotide in the presence of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ and the intercalating dye, ethidium bromide. Scatchard plots of the binding of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ to poly(A).poly(U) and poly(I).poly(C), determined through ultracentrifugation pelleting methods, show large positive curvature, reflecting the strong cooperativity associated with the platinum complex-RNA interaction. The characteristics of the binding isotherms are interpreted in terms of a model where cooperative pair units of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ intercalate into the double-stranded polymer. At saturation, two platinum molecules are bound for every three base pairs. This stoichiometry may be compared with the nearest-neighbor-exclusion binding observed previously in the interaction of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ and the ethidium cation with DNA, in which one intercalator occupies every other interbase-pair site at saturation. The striking differences observed in the interaction of [(terpy)Pt(HET)]+ with DNA and RNA suggest that drug recognition is sensitive to the constraints imposed by nucleic acid secondary structure.", "PMID": 444486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6709", "title": "Messenger ribonucleic acid metabolism in mammalian mitochondria: relationship between the decay of mitochondrial mRNA and their poly(A).", "content": "The mitochondrial poly(adenylic acid)-containing mRNAs in mouse ascites cells pulsed with radioactive precursors contain 35-55 nucleotide long poly(adenylic acid) sequences. These sequences are shortened with age in cells chased with cold medium. The possible relationship between the decay rates of mRNA and their poly(adenylic acid) sequences has been investigated by using mitochondrial RNA and protein synthesis inhibitors. The pattern of mRNA decay as determined by a new solid-phase-bound complementary DNA procedure indicates the presence of two classes of poly(adenylic acid) containing mRNA in mammalian mitochondria: one decaying with a t1/2 of 45 min and the other class with a t1/2 of 210 min. Inhibitors such as ethidium bromide and puromycin which accelerate the decay of mitochondrial mRNA also cause an enhanced decay of poly(adenylic acid) sequences. These results have been interpreted as evidence supporting the involvement of poly(adenylic acid) sequences in the mRNA stability.", "contents": "Messenger ribonucleic acid metabolism in mammalian mitochondria: relationship between the decay of mitochondrial mRNA and their poly(A). The mitochondrial poly(adenylic acid)-containing mRNAs in mouse ascites cells pulsed with radioactive precursors contain 35-55 nucleotide long poly(adenylic acid) sequences. These sequences are shortened with age in cells chased with cold medium. The possible relationship between the decay rates of mRNA and their poly(adenylic acid) sequences has been investigated by using mitochondrial RNA and protein synthesis inhibitors. The pattern of mRNA decay as determined by a new solid-phase-bound complementary DNA procedure indicates the presence of two classes of poly(adenylic acid) containing mRNA in mammalian mitochondria: one decaying with a t1/2 of 45 min and the other class with a t1/2 of 210 min. Inhibitors such as ethidium bromide and puromycin which accelerate the decay of mitochondrial mRNA also cause an enhanced decay of poly(adenylic acid) sequences. These results have been interpreted as evidence supporting the involvement of poly(adenylic acid) sequences in the mRNA stability.", "PMID": 444487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6710", "title": "Purification and characterization of the corticosteroid-binding globulin of pregnant guinea pig serum.", "content": "The corticosteroid-binding globulin from guinea pig pregnancy serum was purified by the sequential use of affinity chromatography, hydroxylapatite chromatography, and gel filtration chromatography at a cumulative yield of 80%. The protein was found to be homogeneous by analytical gel electrophoresis, equilibrium sedimentation ultracentrifugation, immunoelectrophoresis, and stoichiometry (1:1) of steroid binding. Guinea pig corticosteroid-binding globulin has a molecular weight of 43 300 and contains 29% carbohydrate. The intrinsic fluorescence of the corticosteroid-binding globulin is quenched by about 73% when 1 mol of cortisol is bound. The association constants (pH 7.4) at 4 and 37 degrees C are 2.5 X 10(7) and 1.5 X 10(6) M-1 for cortisol and 1.4 X 10(6) and 0.2 X 10(6) M-1 for progesterone, respectively.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of the corticosteroid-binding globulin of pregnant guinea pig serum. The corticosteroid-binding globulin from guinea pig pregnancy serum was purified by the sequential use of affinity chromatography, hydroxylapatite chromatography, and gel filtration chromatography at a cumulative yield of 80%. The protein was found to be homogeneous by analytical gel electrophoresis, equilibrium sedimentation ultracentrifugation, immunoelectrophoresis, and stoichiometry (1:1) of steroid binding. Guinea pig corticosteroid-binding globulin has a molecular weight of 43 300 and contains 29% carbohydrate. The intrinsic fluorescence of the corticosteroid-binding globulin is quenched by about 73% when 1 mol of cortisol is bound. The association constants (pH 7.4) at 4 and 37 degrees C are 2.5 X 10(7) and 1.5 X 10(6) M-1 for cortisol and 1.4 X 10(6) and 0.2 X 10(6) M-1 for progesterone, respectively.", "PMID": 444489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6711", "title": "A low temperature investigation of the intermediates of the photocycle of light-adapted bacteriorhodopsin. Optical absorption and fluorescence measurements.", "content": "Optical absorption and emission measurements have been made on samples of light-adapted purple membrane of Halobacterium halobium at temperatures ranging from 77 K to room temperature. As a result of these experiments a set of equations is given which described thermal and photochemical reactions interrelating various intermediates of the reaction cycle of the chromophore of light-adapted bacteriorhodopsin (BR). Further some specific problems connected to these intermediates have been investigated. Thus the room temperature emission spectrum of bacteriorhodopsin has been found to exhibit a Stokes shift of 3430 cm-1 only, if low excitation intensities are used. The recently detected intermiediate P-BR can be shown to convert thermally into bacteriorhodopsin following a first-order decay with the activation energy delta E = 2.4 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol. The thermal decay of K-BR consists of two exponentials if measured on purple membrane suspensions in a mixture of H2O and glycerol (1 : 1, v/v). A simple procedure is given for trapping the intermediate L-BR at 170 K in a very pure form. M-BR is shown to consist of two species, MI-BR and MII-BR. They are characterized by similar optical absorption spectra but different thermal stability. Further the oscillator strengths corresponding to the long wavelength absorption bands of the intermediates bacteriorhodopsin, K-, L, MI- and MII-BR have been calculated. They have been discussed with respect to the question which of the corresponding absorption spectra show the characteristics of isomerism of the chromophore or simply solvatochromism.", "contents": "A low temperature investigation of the intermediates of the photocycle of light-adapted bacteriorhodopsin. Optical absorption and fluorescence measurements. Optical absorption and emission measurements have been made on samples of light-adapted purple membrane of Halobacterium halobium at temperatures ranging from 77 K to room temperature. As a result of these experiments a set of equations is given which described thermal and photochemical reactions interrelating various intermediates of the reaction cycle of the chromophore of light-adapted bacteriorhodopsin (BR). Further some specific problems connected to these intermediates have been investigated. Thus the room temperature emission spectrum of bacteriorhodopsin has been found to exhibit a Stokes shift of 3430 cm-1 only, if low excitation intensities are used. The recently detected intermiediate P-BR can be shown to convert thermally into bacteriorhodopsin following a first-order decay with the activation energy delta E = 2.4 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol. The thermal decay of K-BR consists of two exponentials if measured on purple membrane suspensions in a mixture of H2O and glycerol (1 : 1, v/v). A simple procedure is given for trapping the intermediate L-BR at 170 K in a very pure form. M-BR is shown to consist of two species, MI-BR and MII-BR. They are characterized by similar optical absorption spectra but different thermal stability. Further the oscillator strengths corresponding to the long wavelength absorption bands of the intermediates bacteriorhodopsin, K-, L, MI- and MII-BR have been calculated. They have been discussed with respect to the question which of the corresponding absorption spectra show the characteristics of isomerism of the chromophore or simply solvatochromism.", "PMID": 444490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6712", "title": "Bacteriorhodopsin (BR570) bathochromic band shift in an external electric field.", "content": "In dry films of bacteriorhodopsin-containing purple membranes from Halobacterium halobium the external electric field (10(4) -- 10(5) V . cm-1) induces the appearance of a product spectrally close to the initial intermediate of bacteriorhodopsin (BR) photochromic cycle (bathoform, K). This result and also preliminary data of the electret-thermal analysis of the preparations suggest that the dielectric polarization in chromophore-protein-lipid complexes might be an essential step of the primary stabilization of light energy in photo-bioenergetic processes.", "contents": "Bacteriorhodopsin (BR570) bathochromic band shift in an external electric field. In dry films of bacteriorhodopsin-containing purple membranes from Halobacterium halobium the external electric field (10(4) -- 10(5) V . cm-1) induces the appearance of a product spectrally close to the initial intermediate of bacteriorhodopsin (BR) photochromic cycle (bathoform, K). This result and also preliminary data of the electret-thermal analysis of the preparations suggest that the dielectric polarization in chromophore-protein-lipid complexes might be an essential step of the primary stabilization of light energy in photo-bioenergetic processes.", "PMID": 444491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6713", "title": "Anomalous oxygen uptake from isolated chloroplasts inhibited in photosystem II and without external electron donors.", "content": "Light induced modulated signal of oxygen uptake by isolated chloroplasts in the presence of methyl viologen, when Photosystem II activity was inhibited and in the absence of any electron donors, was detected by a modulated oxygen Pt electrode, polarized negatively. Evidence is brought to show that an electrochemical process which takes place on the surface of the negatively polarized Pt-cathode produces an intermediate which serves as an electron donor to Photosystem I. Atempts to identify this intermediate show that it may be very probably the superoxide radical generated by the electrochemical reduction of oxygen which continuously diffuses from the external circulating medium to the electrode.", "contents": "Anomalous oxygen uptake from isolated chloroplasts inhibited in photosystem II and without external electron donors. Light induced modulated signal of oxygen uptake by isolated chloroplasts in the presence of methyl viologen, when Photosystem II activity was inhibited and in the absence of any electron donors, was detected by a modulated oxygen Pt electrode, polarized negatively. Evidence is brought to show that an electrochemical process which takes place on the surface of the negatively polarized Pt-cathode produces an intermediate which serves as an electron donor to Photosystem I. Atempts to identify this intermediate show that it may be very probably the superoxide radical generated by the electrochemical reduction of oxygen which continuously diffuses from the external circulating medium to the electrode.", "PMID": 444492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6714", "title": "Catechols stimulate ferricyanide reduction in chloroplast photosystem II.", "content": "In isolated chloroplasts (Spinacia olearacea), where electron transport to Photosystem I is blocked by the plastoquinone antagonist, dibromothymoquinone, lipophilic catechols in concentrations of 50--150 microM stimulate ferricyanide reduction in Photosystem II and associated O2 evolution. Non-permeating catechols, such as Tiron, are unable to stimulate this reaction. Those quinones, such as 2,5-dimethylbenzoquinone, which act as class III electron acceptors, do not lead to stimulation of ferricyanide reduction in Photosystem II or stimulation fo associatied O2 evolution, when electron transport to Photosystem I is blocked by dibromoquinone. Stimulation of ferricyanide reduction is not observed in Tris-treated chloroplasts, implying that electron donation to Photosystem II by catechols is not responsible for the stimulation. Various mechanisms for this stimulation in class II chloroplasts are discussed.", "contents": "Catechols stimulate ferricyanide reduction in chloroplast photosystem II. In isolated chloroplasts (Spinacia olearacea), where electron transport to Photosystem I is blocked by the plastoquinone antagonist, dibromothymoquinone, lipophilic catechols in concentrations of 50--150 microM stimulate ferricyanide reduction in Photosystem II and associated O2 evolution. Non-permeating catechols, such as Tiron, are unable to stimulate this reaction. Those quinones, such as 2,5-dimethylbenzoquinone, which act as class III electron acceptors, do not lead to stimulation of ferricyanide reduction in Photosystem II or stimulation fo associatied O2 evolution, when electron transport to Photosystem I is blocked by dibromoquinone. Stimulation of ferricyanide reduction is not observed in Tris-treated chloroplasts, implying that electron donation to Photosystem II by catechols is not responsible for the stimulation. Various mechanisms for this stimulation in class II chloroplasts are discussed.", "PMID": 444493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6715", "title": "Polypeptide composition of the purified photosystem II pigment-protein complex from spinach.", "content": "The Photosystem II pigment-protein complex, the chlorophyll alpha-protein comprising the reaction center of Photosystem II, was prepared from EDTA-treated spinach chloroplasts by digitonin extraction, sucrose-gradient centrifugation, DEAE-cellulose column chromatography, and isoelectrofocussing on Ampholine. The dissociated pigment-protein complex exhibits two polypeptide subunits that migrate in SDS-polyacrylamide gel with electrophoretic mobilities corresponding to molecular weights of approximately 43,000 and 27,000. the chlorophyll was always found in the free pigment zone at the completion of the electrophoresis. Heat-treatment of the sample (100 degrees C, 90 s) for electrophoresis caused association of the two polypeptides into large aggregates. It is concluded that these two polypeptides, 43,000 and 27,000, are valid structural or functional components of Photosystem II pigment-protein complex.", "contents": "Polypeptide composition of the purified photosystem II pigment-protein complex from spinach. The Photosystem II pigment-protein complex, the chlorophyll alpha-protein comprising the reaction center of Photosystem II, was prepared from EDTA-treated spinach chloroplasts by digitonin extraction, sucrose-gradient centrifugation, DEAE-cellulose column chromatography, and isoelectrofocussing on Ampholine. The dissociated pigment-protein complex exhibits two polypeptide subunits that migrate in SDS-polyacrylamide gel with electrophoretic mobilities corresponding to molecular weights of approximately 43,000 and 27,000. the chlorophyll was always found in the free pigment zone at the completion of the electrophoresis. Heat-treatment of the sample (100 degrees C, 90 s) for electrophoresis caused association of the two polypeptides into large aggregates. It is concluded that these two polypeptides, 43,000 and 27,000, are valid structural or functional components of Photosystem II pigment-protein complex.", "PMID": 444494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6716", "title": "Comparative study of the fluorescence yield and of the C550 absorption change at room temperature.", "content": "The C550 absorption change and the fluorescence yield were studied at room temperature in chloroplasts in the presence of 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea, and under conditions in which contributions of P-700 and of the electrochromic effect were neglible. 1. The C550 difference spectrum is a typical band shift with an isobestic point close to 550 nm. 2. The maximum amplitude of C550 absorption change is reached upon the first flash of a series of saturating flashes, unlike the maximum fluorescence yield which is attained after several flashes. 3. The comparison of the induction curves of the C550 change and the fluorescence yield in weak light shows that the fluorescence yield is controlled by two quenchers: one of them (Q1), the redox state of which C550 is a probe, is responsible for the major part of the quenching; the other one (Q2), which is less concentrated and less efficient becomes predominant at the end of the fluorescence induction. 4. Quencher Q2 back-reacts faster than quencher Q1. 5. Two alternative models are discussed in which Q1 and Q2 belong either to the same Photosystem II center or to two different photocenters.", "contents": "Comparative study of the fluorescence yield and of the C550 absorption change at room temperature. The C550 absorption change and the fluorescence yield were studied at room temperature in chloroplasts in the presence of 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea, and under conditions in which contributions of P-700 and of the electrochromic effect were neglible. 1. The C550 difference spectrum is a typical band shift with an isobestic point close to 550 nm. 2. The maximum amplitude of C550 absorption change is reached upon the first flash of a series of saturating flashes, unlike the maximum fluorescence yield which is attained after several flashes. 3. The comparison of the induction curves of the C550 change and the fluorescence yield in weak light shows that the fluorescence yield is controlled by two quenchers: one of them (Q1), the redox state of which C550 is a probe, is responsible for the major part of the quenching; the other one (Q2), which is less concentrated and less efficient becomes predominant at the end of the fluorescence induction. 4. Quencher Q2 back-reacts faster than quencher Q1. 5. Two alternative models are discussed in which Q1 and Q2 belong either to the same Photosystem II center or to two different photocenters.", "PMID": 444495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6717", "title": "Partition zone penetration by chymotrypsin, and the localization of the chloroplast flavoprotein and photosystem II.", "content": "1. Chymotrypsin treatment of chloroplast membranes inactivates Photosystem II. The inactivation is higher when the activity is measured under low intensity actinic light, suggesting that primary photochemistry is preferentially inactivated. 2. Membrane stacking induced by Mg2+ protects Photosystem II against chymotrypsin inactivation. When the membranes are irreversible unstacked by brief treatment with trypsin, Mg2+ protection against chymotrypsin inactivation of Photosystem II is abolished. 3. The kinetics of inactivation by chymotrypsin of Photosystem II indicates that membrane stacking slows down, but does not prevent, the access of chymotrypsin to Photosystem II, which is mostly located within the partition zones. 4. It is concluded that a partition gap exists between stacked membranes of about 45 A, the size of the chymotrypsin molecule. 5. The kinetics of inhibition of the chloroplast flavoprotein, ferredoxin-NADP reductase, bt its specific antibody is not affected by membrane stacking. This indicates that this enzyme is located outside the partition zones.", "contents": "Partition zone penetration by chymotrypsin, and the localization of the chloroplast flavoprotein and photosystem II. 1. Chymotrypsin treatment of chloroplast membranes inactivates Photosystem II. The inactivation is higher when the activity is measured under low intensity actinic light, suggesting that primary photochemistry is preferentially inactivated. 2. Membrane stacking induced by Mg2+ protects Photosystem II against chymotrypsin inactivation. When the membranes are irreversible unstacked by brief treatment with trypsin, Mg2+ protection against chymotrypsin inactivation of Photosystem II is abolished. 3. The kinetics of inactivation by chymotrypsin of Photosystem II indicates that membrane stacking slows down, but does not prevent, the access of chymotrypsin to Photosystem II, which is mostly located within the partition zones. 4. It is concluded that a partition gap exists between stacked membranes of about 45 A, the size of the chymotrypsin molecule. 5. The kinetics of inhibition of the chloroplast flavoprotein, ferredoxin-NADP reductase, bt its specific antibody is not affected by membrane stacking. This indicates that this enzyme is located outside the partition zones.", "PMID": 444496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6718", "title": "Primary and secondary electron donors in photosystem II of chloroplasts. Rates of electron transfer and location in the membrane.", "content": "Absorption changes at 820 or 515 nm after a short laser flash were studied comparatively in untreated chloroplasts and in chloroplasts in which oxygen evolution is inhibited. In chloroplasts pre-treated with Tris, the primary donor of Photosystem II (P-680) is oxidized by the flash it is re-reduced in a biphasic manner with half-times of 6 microseconds (major phase) and 22 microseconds. After the second flash, the 6 microseconds phase is nearly absent and P-680+ decays with half-times of 130 microseconds (major phase) and 22 microseconds. Exogenous electron donors (MnCl2 or reduced phenylenediamine) have no direct influence on the kinetics of P-680+. In untreated chloroplasts the 6 and 22 microseconds phases are of very small amplitude, either at the 1st, 2nd or 3rd flash given after dark-adaptation. They are observed, however, after incubation with 10 mM hydroxylamine. These results are interpreted in terms of multiple pathways for the reduction of P-680+: a rapid reduction (less than 1 microseconds) by the physiological donor D1; a slower reduction (6 and 22 microseconds) by donor D'1, operative when O2 evolution is inhibited; a back-reaction (130 microseconds) when D'1 is oxidized by the pre-illumination in inhibited chloroplasts. In Tris-treated chloroplasts the donor system to P-680+ has the capacity to deliver only one electron. The absorption change at 515 nm (electrochromic absorption shift) has been measured in parallel. It is shown that the change linked to Photosystem II activity has nearly the same magnitude in untreated chloroplasts or in chloroplasts treated with hydroxylamine or with Tris (first and subsequent flashes). Thus we conclude that all the donors (P-680, D1, D'1) are located at the internal side of the thylakoid membrane.", "contents": "Primary and secondary electron donors in photosystem II of chloroplasts. Rates of electron transfer and location in the membrane. Absorption changes at 820 or 515 nm after a short laser flash were studied comparatively in untreated chloroplasts and in chloroplasts in which oxygen evolution is inhibited. In chloroplasts pre-treated with Tris, the primary donor of Photosystem II (P-680) is oxidized by the flash it is re-reduced in a biphasic manner with half-times of 6 microseconds (major phase) and 22 microseconds. After the second flash, the 6 microseconds phase is nearly absent and P-680+ decays with half-times of 130 microseconds (major phase) and 22 microseconds. Exogenous electron donors (MnCl2 or reduced phenylenediamine) have no direct influence on the kinetics of P-680+. In untreated chloroplasts the 6 and 22 microseconds phases are of very small amplitude, either at the 1st, 2nd or 3rd flash given after dark-adaptation. They are observed, however, after incubation with 10 mM hydroxylamine. These results are interpreted in terms of multiple pathways for the reduction of P-680+: a rapid reduction (less than 1 microseconds) by the physiological donor D1; a slower reduction (6 and 22 microseconds) by donor D'1, operative when O2 evolution is inhibited; a back-reaction (130 microseconds) when D'1 is oxidized by the pre-illumination in inhibited chloroplasts. In Tris-treated chloroplasts the donor system to P-680+ has the capacity to deliver only one electron. The absorption change at 515 nm (electrochromic absorption shift) has been measured in parallel. It is shown that the change linked to Photosystem II activity has nearly the same magnitude in untreated chloroplasts or in chloroplasts treated with hydroxylamine or with Tris (first and subsequent flashes). Thus we conclude that all the donors (P-680, D1, D'1) are located at the internal side of the thylakoid membrane.", "PMID": 444497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6719", "title": "Photoreactions of Cytochrome b-559 and cyclic electron flow in photosystem II of intact chloroplasts.", "content": "The high potential cytochrome b-559 of intact spinach chloroplasts was photooxidized by red light with a high quantum efficiency and by far-red light with a very low quantum efficiency, when electron flow from water to Photosystem II was inhibited by a carbonyl cyanide phenylhydrazone (FCCP or CCP). Dithiothreitol, which reacts with FCCP or CCCP, reversed the photooxidation of cytochrome b-559 and restored the capability of the chloroplasts to photoreduce CO2 showing that the FCCP/CCCP effects were reversible. The quantum efficiency of cytochrome b-559 photooxidation by red or far-red light in the presence of FCCP was increased by 2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl-p-benzoquinone which blocks oxidation of reduced plastoquinone by Photosystem I. When the inhibition of water oxidation by FCCP or CCP was decreased by increased light intensities, previously photooxidized cytochrome b-559 was reduced. Red light was much more effective in photoreducing oxidized high potential cytochrome b-559 than far-red light. The red/far-red antagonism in the redox state of cytochrome b-559 is a consequence of the different sensitivity of the cytochrome to red and far-red light and does not indicate that the cytochrome is in the main path of electrons from water to NADP. Rather, cytochrome b-559 acts as a carrier of electrons in a cyclic path around Photosystem II. The redox state of the cytochrome was shifted to the oxidized side when electron transport from water became rate-limiting, while oxidation of water and reduction of plastoquinone resulted in its shifting to the reduced side.", "contents": "Photoreactions of Cytochrome b-559 and cyclic electron flow in photosystem II of intact chloroplasts. The high potential cytochrome b-559 of intact spinach chloroplasts was photooxidized by red light with a high quantum efficiency and by far-red light with a very low quantum efficiency, when electron flow from water to Photosystem II was inhibited by a carbonyl cyanide phenylhydrazone (FCCP or CCP). Dithiothreitol, which reacts with FCCP or CCCP, reversed the photooxidation of cytochrome b-559 and restored the capability of the chloroplasts to photoreduce CO2 showing that the FCCP/CCCP effects were reversible. The quantum efficiency of cytochrome b-559 photooxidation by red or far-red light in the presence of FCCP was increased by 2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl-p-benzoquinone which blocks oxidation of reduced plastoquinone by Photosystem I. When the inhibition of water oxidation by FCCP or CCP was decreased by increased light intensities, previously photooxidized cytochrome b-559 was reduced. Red light was much more effective in photoreducing oxidized high potential cytochrome b-559 than far-red light. The red/far-red antagonism in the redox state of cytochrome b-559 is a consequence of the different sensitivity of the cytochrome to red and far-red light and does not indicate that the cytochrome is in the main path of electrons from water to NADP. Rather, cytochrome b-559 acts as a carrier of electrons in a cyclic path around Photosystem II. The redox state of the cytochrome was shifted to the oxidized side when electron transport from water became rate-limiting, while oxidation of water and reduction of plastoquinone resulted in its shifting to the reduced side.", "PMID": 444498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6720", "title": "Connection between the rate of cooling and fluorescence properties at 77 K or isolated chloroplasts.", "content": "Cooling of chloroplasts to--196 degrees C can under certain circumstances lead to an erroneous analysis of energy distribution. After minimizing influences of sample geometry and effects of plastid concentration it is shown that externally induced membrane change leads to an increase in the ratio F740/F687 of the fluorescence emission spectrum. Similar alterations can be observed by variation of the rate of cooling the plastids to 77 K, expecially if whole chloroplasts are used. The differences in emission ratios are indicative also of changes in initial energy distribution between the photosystems, given here by the value alphaN. This is inferred from experiments with either osmotically induced thylakoid disturbances or those effected through a slow cooling process. The circumstances and the significance of these observations are discussed.", "contents": "Connection between the rate of cooling and fluorescence properties at 77 K or isolated chloroplasts. Cooling of chloroplasts to--196 degrees C can under certain circumstances lead to an erroneous analysis of energy distribution. After minimizing influences of sample geometry and effects of plastid concentration it is shown that externally induced membrane change leads to an increase in the ratio F740/F687 of the fluorescence emission spectrum. Similar alterations can be observed by variation of the rate of cooling the plastids to 77 K, expecially if whole chloroplasts are used. The differences in emission ratios are indicative also of changes in initial energy distribution between the photosystems, given here by the value alphaN. This is inferred from experiments with either osmotically induced thylakoid disturbances or those effected through a slow cooling process. The circumstances and the significance of these observations are discussed.", "PMID": 444500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6721", "title": "Influence of the energetic state of mitochondria on the inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation by N-ethylmaleimide.", "content": "N-Ethylmaleimide inhibitory effect on oxidative phosphorylation, adenylic nucleotide translocation, succinate dehydrogenase and succinoxidase activities was studied as a function of the energetic state of mitochondria. 1. Using a reversible thiol reagent (mersalyl), in order to protect the phosphate carrier against irreversible action of N-ethylmaleimide, it was found that: (a) when mersalyl-pretreated mitochondria were in a 'non-energized' state, i.e. preincubated without a substrate and in the presence of rotenone, only a slight inhibition of succinate oxidation coupled to ATP synthesis by N-ethylmaleimide was observed. (b) when mersalyl-pretreated mitochondria were in an 'energized' state, i.e. preincubated in the presence of an oxidizable substrate, N-ethylmaleimide strongly inhibited the coupled oxidation of succinate. 2. Mitochondrial energization was also shown to enhavce the inhibitory effect of N-ethylmaleimide on adenylic nucleotide translocation and succinoxidase activity. However, other sulphydrul groups seem to be involved in the inhibition mechanism, but their function is unknown. 3. As N-ethylmaleimide inhibitory effect increased, an enhancement of N-[14C]ethylmaleimide binding to mitochondrial sulphydryl groups was obtained.", "contents": "Influence of the energetic state of mitochondria on the inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation by N-ethylmaleimide. N-Ethylmaleimide inhibitory effect on oxidative phosphorylation, adenylic nucleotide translocation, succinate dehydrogenase and succinoxidase activities was studied as a function of the energetic state of mitochondria. 1. Using a reversible thiol reagent (mersalyl), in order to protect the phosphate carrier against irreversible action of N-ethylmaleimide, it was found that: (a) when mersalyl-pretreated mitochondria were in a 'non-energized' state, i.e. preincubated without a substrate and in the presence of rotenone, only a slight inhibition of succinate oxidation coupled to ATP synthesis by N-ethylmaleimide was observed. (b) when mersalyl-pretreated mitochondria were in an 'energized' state, i.e. preincubated in the presence of an oxidizable substrate, N-ethylmaleimide strongly inhibited the coupled oxidation of succinate. 2. Mitochondrial energization was also shown to enhavce the inhibitory effect of N-ethylmaleimide on adenylic nucleotide translocation and succinoxidase activity. However, other sulphydrul groups seem to be involved in the inhibition mechanism, but their function is unknown. 3. As N-ethylmaleimide inhibitory effect increased, an enhancement of N-[14C]ethylmaleimide binding to mitochondrial sulphydryl groups was obtained.", "PMID": 444501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6722", "title": "A method for measuring membrane microviscosity using pyrene excimer formation. Application to human erythrocyte ghosts.", "content": "In order to determine the microviscosity of human erythrocyte membrane suspensions, a method has been developed which is based on pyrene excimer formation. First, measurements of partitioning of pyrene into membranes, in conjunction with known values for the volume of the lipid compartment of erythrocyte ghosts are used to determine the concentration of pyrene in the membrane lipid. Secondly, reported measurements of the diffusion constants of aromatic hydrocarbons similar in structure to pyrene, are used to derive an empirical equation relating solvent viscosity and the diffusion constant of pyrene. Then, measurements of pyrene excimer formation in a series of solvents ranging up to several poise in viscosity are used to determine that the interaction diameter of the excimer formation reaction is 3 +/- 1 A. Finally all these data are brought together in order to conclude that the viscosity of the lipid in the human erythrocyte ghost is 8.0, 4.0 and 1.6 P at 10, 25 and 40 degrees C, respectively.", "contents": "A method for measuring membrane microviscosity using pyrene excimer formation. Application to human erythrocyte ghosts. In order to determine the microviscosity of human erythrocyte membrane suspensions, a method has been developed which is based on pyrene excimer formation. First, measurements of partitioning of pyrene into membranes, in conjunction with known values for the volume of the lipid compartment of erythrocyte ghosts are used to determine the concentration of pyrene in the membrane lipid. Secondly, reported measurements of the diffusion constants of aromatic hydrocarbons similar in structure to pyrene, are used to derive an empirical equation relating solvent viscosity and the diffusion constant of pyrene. Then, measurements of pyrene excimer formation in a series of solvents ranging up to several poise in viscosity are used to determine that the interaction diameter of the excimer formation reaction is 3 +/- 1 A. Finally all these data are brought together in order to conclude that the viscosity of the lipid in the human erythrocyte ghost is 8.0, 4.0 and 1.6 P at 10, 25 and 40 degrees C, respectively.", "PMID": 444502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6723", "title": "Isolation of Golgi fractions from colchicine-treated rat liver. I. Morphological and enzymic characterization.", "content": "1. Three Golgi fractions, GF-1, GF-2 and GF-3, were isolated from the livers of rats pretreated with colchicine, which gave better yields of the fractions than ethanol treatment of rats. 2. Electron microscopic observation showed that GF-1 was composed mainly of secretory vesicles, GF-3 consisted predominantly of small tubules and flattened cisternae, and GF-2 was an intermediate fraction composed of secretory vesicles and cisternal elements. 3. Among these three fractions the highest activity of galactosyl transferase, marker enzyme of the Golgi complex, was found in GF-3 and the lowest activity was in GF-1, although a different distribution of the enzymes was observed in fractions obtained from ethanol-treated rat liver. 4. Enzymatic characterization of these fractions showed that no significant contamination with other subcellular components occurred in GF-1 and GF-2.", "contents": "Isolation of Golgi fractions from colchicine-treated rat liver. I. Morphological and enzymic characterization. 1. Three Golgi fractions, GF-1, GF-2 and GF-3, were isolated from the livers of rats pretreated with colchicine, which gave better yields of the fractions than ethanol treatment of rats. 2. Electron microscopic observation showed that GF-1 was composed mainly of secretory vesicles, GF-3 consisted predominantly of small tubules and flattened cisternae, and GF-2 was an intermediate fraction composed of secretory vesicles and cisternal elements. 3. Among these three fractions the highest activity of galactosyl transferase, marker enzyme of the Golgi complex, was found in GF-3 and the lowest activity was in GF-1, although a different distribution of the enzymes was observed in fractions obtained from ethanol-treated rat liver. 4. Enzymatic characterization of these fractions showed that no significant contamination with other subcellular components occurred in GF-1 and GF-2.", "PMID": 444503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6724", "title": "Isolation of Golgi fractions from colchicine-treated rat liver. II. Electrophoretic characterization.", "content": "1. Intact Golgi fractions, three from colchicine- or ethanol-treated rat livers and two from a control, were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. All the fractions showed very similar electrophoretic profiles with 33 protein bands, some of which, especially albumin, had rather higher density in the secretory vesicle fraction than those in the cisternal fraction. 2. Using albumin as the content marker, the Golgi fractions were subfractionated into membranes and contents by freezing-thawing and sonication followed by centrifugation. Distribution of galactosyltransferase among these membrane preparations showed that this enzyme was more enriched in the Golgi cisternal membranes than in the secretory vesicle membranes. 3. All the membrane preparations from the Golgi complex showed very similar patterns on electrophoresis, which were distinctly different from those of microsomal membranes and of plasma membrane. Furthermore, all the Golgi content subfractions had similar protein components, most of which were also found in serum. The microsomal contents, however, showed a considerably different pattern from those of the Golgi contents. 4. From these results it could be concluded that the secretory vesicles are indeed a member of the Golgi complex despite their different appearance and morphology.", "contents": "Isolation of Golgi fractions from colchicine-treated rat liver. II. Electrophoretic characterization. 1. Intact Golgi fractions, three from colchicine- or ethanol-treated rat livers and two from a control, were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. All the fractions showed very similar electrophoretic profiles with 33 protein bands, some of which, especially albumin, had rather higher density in the secretory vesicle fraction than those in the cisternal fraction. 2. Using albumin as the content marker, the Golgi fractions were subfractionated into membranes and contents by freezing-thawing and sonication followed by centrifugation. Distribution of galactosyltransferase among these membrane preparations showed that this enzyme was more enriched in the Golgi cisternal membranes than in the secretory vesicle membranes. 3. All the membrane preparations from the Golgi complex showed very similar patterns on electrophoresis, which were distinctly different from those of microsomal membranes and of plasma membrane. Furthermore, all the Golgi content subfractions had similar protein components, most of which were also found in serum. The microsomal contents, however, showed a considerably different pattern from those of the Golgi contents. 4. From these results it could be concluded that the secretory vesicles are indeed a member of the Golgi complex despite their different appearance and morphology.", "PMID": 444504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6725", "title": "Glycophorin-enriched vesicles obtained by a selective extraction of human erythrocyte membranes with a non-ionic detergent.", "content": "A method is described for isolating glycophorin-enriched vesicles from human erythrocytes by extracting membranes that were incubated for 30 min at 37 degrees C at pH 4.5 and washed at low and high ionic strength with the nonionic detergent Triton X-100. The extracts were 11.8 +/- 2.4 fold enriched in glycophorin and contained 325 +/- 69 microgram sialic acid/mg protein, which represented 61 +/- 16% of the total sialic acid. Upon removal of Triton X-100 one third of the total glycophorin forms glycophorin-enriched vesicles with coextracted, endogenous lipids as shown sedimintation, dextran-density gradient centrifugation, and electron microscopy. Addition of exogenous lipids increased the fraction of glycophorin-enriched vesicles up to 87%. The incorporation of glycophorin in the membrane was shown by hemagglutination inhibition assays using anti-M sera and by the accessibility of glycophorin to trypsin. Freeze-fractured vesicles did not reveal intramembranous particles. The selectivity of the extraction procedure is not simply due to chemical constraints introduced by disulfide cross-linkage of protein component 3, because only 20% of this protein undergo disulfide cross-linking. The selective extraction of glycophorin implies that glycophorin is segregated from protein component 3 and thus from intramembranous particles when erythrocyte membranes have been incubated at pH 4.5. This segregation may precede aggregation of intramembranous particles.", "contents": "Glycophorin-enriched vesicles obtained by a selective extraction of human erythrocyte membranes with a non-ionic detergent. A method is described for isolating glycophorin-enriched vesicles from human erythrocytes by extracting membranes that were incubated for 30 min at 37 degrees C at pH 4.5 and washed at low and high ionic strength with the nonionic detergent Triton X-100. The extracts were 11.8 +/- 2.4 fold enriched in glycophorin and contained 325 +/- 69 microgram sialic acid/mg protein, which represented 61 +/- 16% of the total sialic acid. Upon removal of Triton X-100 one third of the total glycophorin forms glycophorin-enriched vesicles with coextracted, endogenous lipids as shown sedimintation, dextran-density gradient centrifugation, and electron microscopy. Addition of exogenous lipids increased the fraction of glycophorin-enriched vesicles up to 87%. The incorporation of glycophorin in the membrane was shown by hemagglutination inhibition assays using anti-M sera and by the accessibility of glycophorin to trypsin. Freeze-fractured vesicles did not reveal intramembranous particles. The selectivity of the extraction procedure is not simply due to chemical constraints introduced by disulfide cross-linkage of protein component 3, because only 20% of this protein undergo disulfide cross-linking. The selective extraction of glycophorin implies that glycophorin is segregated from protein component 3 and thus from intramembranous particles when erythrocyte membranes have been incubated at pH 4.5. This segregation may precede aggregation of intramembranous particles.", "PMID": 444505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6726", "title": "Effects of vitamin E and selenium deficiency on the fatty acid composition of rat retinal tissues.", "content": "The fatty acid composition of retinal tissues was measured in rats maintained for 26--32 weeks on each of the following diets: a purified basal diet deficient in alpha-tocopherol and selenium, an identical control diet supplemented with alpha-tocopherol and selenium, and a commerical laboratory rat chow. Dietary deficiencies of antioxidant nutrients were found to cause a large decrease in total polyunsaturated fatty acids in the retinal pigment epithelium, a small decrease in the retinal rod outer segments, but no change in the whole retina or liver when compared to tissues from animals fed the vitamin E- and selenium-supplemented control diet. The polyunsaturated fatty acid content which we have observed for the retinal pigment epithelium from rats fed commerical lab chow is similar to that which we observed for bovine retinal pigment epithelium. Our results indicate that changes in fatty acid composition are not generalized to all tissues in severely antioxidant-deficient animals, but that changes do occur in some tissues, such as the retinal pigment epithelium, which appears to be particularly sensitive to in vivo lipid peroxidation.", "contents": "Effects of vitamin E and selenium deficiency on the fatty acid composition of rat retinal tissues. The fatty acid composition of retinal tissues was measured in rats maintained for 26--32 weeks on each of the following diets: a purified basal diet deficient in alpha-tocopherol and selenium, an identical control diet supplemented with alpha-tocopherol and selenium, and a commerical laboratory rat chow. Dietary deficiencies of antioxidant nutrients were found to cause a large decrease in total polyunsaturated fatty acids in the retinal pigment epithelium, a small decrease in the retinal rod outer segments, but no change in the whole retina or liver when compared to tissues from animals fed the vitamin E- and selenium-supplemented control diet. The polyunsaturated fatty acid content which we have observed for the retinal pigment epithelium from rats fed commerical lab chow is similar to that which we observed for bovine retinal pigment epithelium. Our results indicate that changes in fatty acid composition are not generalized to all tissues in severely antioxidant-deficient animals, but that changes do occur in some tissues, such as the retinal pigment epithelium, which appears to be particularly sensitive to in vivo lipid peroxidation.", "PMID": 444506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6727", "title": "Disaturated and dipolyunsaturated phospholipids in the bovine retinal rod outer segment disk membrane.", "content": "Thin-layer chromatography was used to separate the major phospholipid headgroup classes of the rod outer segment disk membrane into subfractions which differ markedly in fatty acid composition. At least 18% of the rod outer segment phosphatidylcholine must contain two saturated fatty acids. Furthermore, two unsaturated fatty acids are found in at least 43% of the phosphatidylserine, 24% of the phosphatidylcholine, and 24% of the phosphatidylethanolamine. The unsaturated acids are predominantly polyunsaturated in all cases. A similar separation, but with less resolution, was achieved with silicic acid column chromatography. The temperature dependence of the polarization of the fluorescence of trans-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-all-trans-octadecatetraenoic acid) showed that the thermal behavior of aqueous dispersions of the phosphatidylcholine subfractions was consistent with their fatty acid compositions.", "contents": "Disaturated and dipolyunsaturated phospholipids in the bovine retinal rod outer segment disk membrane. Thin-layer chromatography was used to separate the major phospholipid headgroup classes of the rod outer segment disk membrane into subfractions which differ markedly in fatty acid composition. At least 18% of the rod outer segment phosphatidylcholine must contain two saturated fatty acids. Furthermore, two unsaturated fatty acids are found in at least 43% of the phosphatidylserine, 24% of the phosphatidylcholine, and 24% of the phosphatidylethanolamine. The unsaturated acids are predominantly polyunsaturated in all cases. A similar separation, but with less resolution, was achieved with silicic acid column chromatography. The temperature dependence of the polarization of the fluorescence of trans-parinaric acid (9,11,13,15-all-trans-octadecatetraenoic acid) showed that the thermal behavior of aqueous dispersions of the phosphatidylcholine subfractions was consistent with their fatty acid compositions.", "PMID": 444507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6728", "title": "Electrophysiology of phagocytic membranes. II. Membrane potential and induction of slow hyperpolarizations in activated macrophages.", "content": "The potential differences measured on the cell surface and after penetration into the cytoplasm of activated macrophages are described. Linear regressions are made of the measured potential differences as functions of the tip potential of each microelectrode. The surface potential of the macrophage is not significantly different from zero. Mouse macrophages have a transmembrane potential of--26 mV, whereas in guinea-pig cells this value is--18 mV. The input resistances of guinea-pig cells are higher than those of mouse macrophages. The cytoplasmic location of the electrode was characterized both by fluorescent dye injection and by electric criteria. Slow membrane hyperpolarizations are directly elicited by mechanical stimulation. Electric responses evoked by current pulses were further characterized. Our results lead to the extablishment of objective criteria to validate intracellular recordings from macrophage.", "contents": "Electrophysiology of phagocytic membranes. II. Membrane potential and induction of slow hyperpolarizations in activated macrophages. The potential differences measured on the cell surface and after penetration into the cytoplasm of activated macrophages are described. Linear regressions are made of the measured potential differences as functions of the tip potential of each microelectrode. The surface potential of the macrophage is not significantly different from zero. Mouse macrophages have a transmembrane potential of--26 mV, whereas in guinea-pig cells this value is--18 mV. The input resistances of guinea-pig cells are higher than those of mouse macrophages. The cytoplasmic location of the electrode was characterized both by fluorescent dye injection and by electric criteria. Slow membrane hyperpolarizations are directly elicited by mechanical stimulation. Electric responses evoked by current pulses were further characterized. Our results lead to the extablishment of objective criteria to validate intracellular recordings from macrophage.", "PMID": 444508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6729", "title": "The mechanism of action of Cu2+ on the frog skin.", "content": "The mechanism of action of Cu2+ when applied to the external side of the frog skin preparation was investigated. Cu2+ acts most probably on the external barrier of this preparation, since it increases the transport pool of Na+ proportionally to the increase in the short circuit current (Isc). Cu2+ does not open new routes for the Na+ entry since the stimulated Isc is still completely abolished by amiloride. The Isc dependence of Na+ concentration in the external medium is modified by copper, since the Km value increases in addition to changes in V. It is suggested that copper acts at the external barrier Na channels in a way similar to that proposed by Zeiske and Lindemann ((1974) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 352, 323--326) for benzoylimidazole-2 guanidine and benzoylthiazole-2 guanidine and by Dick and Lindemann ((1975) Pfl\u00fcgers Arch. ges. Physiol. 355, R72) for para-chloromercuribenzenosulfonate and para-chloromercuribenzoate.", "contents": "The mechanism of action of Cu2+ on the frog skin. The mechanism of action of Cu2+ when applied to the external side of the frog skin preparation was investigated. Cu2+ acts most probably on the external barrier of this preparation, since it increases the transport pool of Na+ proportionally to the increase in the short circuit current (Isc). Cu2+ does not open new routes for the Na+ entry since the stimulated Isc is still completely abolished by amiloride. The Isc dependence of Na+ concentration in the external medium is modified by copper, since the Km value increases in addition to changes in V. It is suggested that copper acts at the external barrier Na channels in a way similar to that proposed by Zeiske and Lindemann ((1974) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 352, 323--326) for benzoylimidazole-2 guanidine and benzoylthiazole-2 guanidine and by Dick and Lindemann ((1975) Pfl\u00fcgers Arch. ges. Physiol. 355, R72) for para-chloromercuribenzenosulfonate and para-chloromercuribenzoate.", "PMID": 444509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6730", "title": "Cable properties and compartmentation in Acetabularia.", "content": "The electrical cable properties of three different compartmentation types of Acetabularia cells have been investigated. These three types were: normal cells, 'stumps' (filled with cytoplasm, no central vacuole) and 'tubes' (cytoplasm depleted vacuoles). The latter two types have been obtained by centrifugation of normal cells. Qualitatively, the characteristic biphasic voltage response upon rectangular current pulses is the same in these three types. Quantitatively, however, the two conductances which can be obtained from the biphasic voltage response as well as the apparent capacity of several F . m-2 which derives from the large time constant of the second phase, are drastically increased in stumps and decreased in tubes compared to normal cells. The resting potential is a few mV more negative in stumps, and more positive in tubes, than in normal cells. Based on the existence of the high resting potential and the apparent large capacity in the non-vacuolated stumps, it is concluded that the electrogenic Cl- pump of Acetabularia is located in the plasmalemma membrane and that the apparent large capacity is not a result of the complicated membraneous organisation of the vacuolar system. Several possibilities are discussed, in relation to the quantitative correlation between intracellular compartmentation and electrical membrane parameters.", "contents": "Cable properties and compartmentation in Acetabularia. The electrical cable properties of three different compartmentation types of Acetabularia cells have been investigated. These three types were: normal cells, 'stumps' (filled with cytoplasm, no central vacuole) and 'tubes' (cytoplasm depleted vacuoles). The latter two types have been obtained by centrifugation of normal cells. Qualitatively, the characteristic biphasic voltage response upon rectangular current pulses is the same in these three types. Quantitatively, however, the two conductances which can be obtained from the biphasic voltage response as well as the apparent capacity of several F . m-2 which derives from the large time constant of the second phase, are drastically increased in stumps and decreased in tubes compared to normal cells. The resting potential is a few mV more negative in stumps, and more positive in tubes, than in normal cells. Based on the existence of the high resting potential and the apparent large capacity in the non-vacuolated stumps, it is concluded that the electrogenic Cl- pump of Acetabularia is located in the plasmalemma membrane and that the apparent large capacity is not a result of the complicated membraneous organisation of the vacuolar system. Several possibilities are discussed, in relation to the quantitative correlation between intracellular compartmentation and electrical membrane parameters.", "PMID": 444510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6731", "title": "Initial membrane reaction in peptidoglycan synthesis. Interaction of lipid with phospho-N-acetylmuramyl-pentapeptide translocase.", "content": "The initial membrane reaction in the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan is catalyzed by phospho-N-acetylmuramyl (MurN Ac)-pentapeptide translocase (UDP-MurNAc-Ala-gamma DGlu-Lys-DAla-DAla undecaprenyl phosphate phospho-MurNAc-pentapeptide transferase). In addition to the transfer reaction, the enzyme catalyzes the exchange of [3H]uridine monophosphate with the uridine monophosphate moiety of UDP-MurN Ac-pentapeptide. Two distinct discontinuities are observed in the slopes of the Arrhenius plots of the exchange and transfer activities at 22 and 30 degrees C for the enzyme from Staphylococcus aureus Copenhagen. Anisotropy measurements of perylene fluorescence and electron spin resonance measurements of N-oxyl-4',4'-dimethyloxazolidine derivatives of 12- and 16-ketostearic acid intercalated into membranes from this organism define the lower (T1 = 16--22 degrees C) and upper (Th = 30 degrees C) boundaries of a phase transition. These values correlate with the discontinuities observed for the activity measurements. Thus, it is proposed that the physical state of the lipid micro-environment of phospho-MurNAc-penetapeptide translocase has a significant effect on the catalytic activity of this enzyme.", "contents": "Initial membrane reaction in peptidoglycan synthesis. Interaction of lipid with phospho-N-acetylmuramyl-pentapeptide translocase. The initial membrane reaction in the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan is catalyzed by phospho-N-acetylmuramyl (MurN Ac)-pentapeptide translocase (UDP-MurNAc-Ala-gamma DGlu-Lys-DAla-DAla undecaprenyl phosphate phospho-MurNAc-pentapeptide transferase). In addition to the transfer reaction, the enzyme catalyzes the exchange of [3H]uridine monophosphate with the uridine monophosphate moiety of UDP-MurN Ac-pentapeptide. Two distinct discontinuities are observed in the slopes of the Arrhenius plots of the exchange and transfer activities at 22 and 30 degrees C for the enzyme from Staphylococcus aureus Copenhagen. Anisotropy measurements of perylene fluorescence and electron spin resonance measurements of N-oxyl-4',4'-dimethyloxazolidine derivatives of 12- and 16-ketostearic acid intercalated into membranes from this organism define the lower (T1 = 16--22 degrees C) and upper (Th = 30 degrees C) boundaries of a phase transition. These values correlate with the discontinuities observed for the activity measurements. Thus, it is proposed that the physical state of the lipid micro-environment of phospho-MurNAc-penetapeptide translocase has a significant effect on the catalytic activity of this enzyme.", "PMID": 444511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6732", "title": "Divalent cation-induced interaction of phospholipid vesicle and monolayer membranes.", "content": "The effects of phospholipid vesicles and divalent cations in the subphase solution on the surface tension of phospholipid monolayer membranes were studied in order to elucidate the nature of the divalent cation-induced vesicle membrane interaction. The monolayers were formed at the air/water interface. Various concentrations of unilamellar phospholipid (phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine and their mixtures) vesicles and divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+, etc.) were introduced into the subphase solution of the monolayers. The changes of surface tension of monolayers were measured by the Wilhelmy plate (Teflon) method with respect to divalent ion concentrations and time. When a monolayer of phosphatidylserine and vesicles of phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine (1 : 1) were used, there were critical concentrations of divalent cations to produce a large reduction in surface tension of the monolayer. These concentrations were 16 mM for Mg2+, 7 mM for Sr2+, 6 mM for Ca2+, 3.5 mM for Ba2+ and 1.8 mM for Mn2+. On the other hand, for a phosphatidylcholine monolayer and phosphatidylcholine vesicles, there was no change in surface tension of the monolayer up to 25 mM of any divalent ion used. When a phosphatidylserine monolayer and phosphatidylcholine vesicles were used, the order of divalent ions to effect the large reduction of surface tension was Mn2+ greater than Ca2+ greater than Mg2+ and their critical concentrations were in upon vesicle concentrations as well as the area/molecule of monolayers. For phosphatidylserine monolayers and phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine : 1) vesicles, above the critical concentrations of Mn2+ and Ca2+, the surface tension decreased to a value close to the equilibrium pressure of the monolayers within 0.5 h. This decrease in surface tension of the monolayers is interpreted partly as the consequence of fusion of the vesicles with the monolayer membranes. The order and magnitude of divalent cation concentrations at which phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine (1 : 1) and phosphatidylserine vesicle suspensions showed a large increase in turbidity were similar to those obtained in the above mentioned experiments.", "contents": "Divalent cation-induced interaction of phospholipid vesicle and monolayer membranes. The effects of phospholipid vesicles and divalent cations in the subphase solution on the surface tension of phospholipid monolayer membranes were studied in order to elucidate the nature of the divalent cation-induced vesicle membrane interaction. The monolayers were formed at the air/water interface. Various concentrations of unilamellar phospholipid (phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine and their mixtures) vesicles and divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+, etc.) were introduced into the subphase solution of the monolayers. The changes of surface tension of monolayers were measured by the Wilhelmy plate (Teflon) method with respect to divalent ion concentrations and time. When a monolayer of phosphatidylserine and vesicles of phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine (1 : 1) were used, there were critical concentrations of divalent cations to produce a large reduction in surface tension of the monolayer. These concentrations were 16 mM for Mg2+, 7 mM for Sr2+, 6 mM for Ca2+, 3.5 mM for Ba2+ and 1.8 mM for Mn2+. On the other hand, for a phosphatidylcholine monolayer and phosphatidylcholine vesicles, there was no change in surface tension of the monolayer up to 25 mM of any divalent ion used. When a phosphatidylserine monolayer and phosphatidylcholine vesicles were used, the order of divalent ions to effect the large reduction of surface tension was Mn2+ greater than Ca2+ greater than Mg2+ and their critical concentrations were in upon vesicle concentrations as well as the area/molecule of monolayers. For phosphatidylserine monolayers and phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine : 1) vesicles, above the critical concentrations of Mn2+ and Ca2+, the surface tension decreased to a value close to the equilibrium pressure of the monolayers within 0.5 h. This decrease in surface tension of the monolayers is interpreted partly as the consequence of fusion of the vesicles with the monolayer membranes. The order and magnitude of divalent cation concentrations at which phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine (1 : 1) and phosphatidylserine vesicle suspensions showed a large increase in turbidity were similar to those obtained in the above mentioned experiments.", "PMID": 444512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6733", "title": "Is the vertical disposition of Mycoplasma membrane proteins affected by membrane fluidity?", "content": "The influence of the physical state of the membrane lipid matrix on the vertical disposition of membrane proteins was studied with Acholeplasma laidlawii. Changes in membrane fluidity were brought about by altering the fatty acid composition of membrane lipids, by changing the growth temperature, by aging of cultures and by inducing changes in the membrane lipid-to-protein ratio through treatment with chloramphenicol. The lactoperoxidase-mediated iodination technique was used to label membrane proteins exposed to the aqueous surroundings. The degree of exposure of the iodine-binding sites of membrane proteins on the external surface of intact cells was found to undergo significant changes on varying growth conditions, but the changes could not be consistently correlated with changes in membrane fluidity, nor were they discernible on iodination of isolated membranes.", "contents": "Is the vertical disposition of Mycoplasma membrane proteins affected by membrane fluidity? The influence of the physical state of the membrane lipid matrix on the vertical disposition of membrane proteins was studied with Acholeplasma laidlawii. Changes in membrane fluidity were brought about by altering the fatty acid composition of membrane lipids, by changing the growth temperature, by aging of cultures and by inducing changes in the membrane lipid-to-protein ratio through treatment with chloramphenicol. The lactoperoxidase-mediated iodination technique was used to label membrane proteins exposed to the aqueous surroundings. The degree of exposure of the iodine-binding sites of membrane proteins on the external surface of intact cells was found to undergo significant changes on varying growth conditions, but the changes could not be consistently correlated with changes in membrane fluidity, nor were they discernible on iodination of isolated membranes.", "PMID": 444513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6734", "title": "Lipid-protein interactions: NMR study of melittin and its binding to lysophosphatidylcholine.", "content": "Proton NMR of melittin differs according to the association state of the peptide in the monomer or tetramer. Melittin interacts with lysophosphatidyl-choline micelles, whatever the association state of melittin; well resolved superimposed spectra from both components for all the lipid to peptide molar ratios are observed. Within the complexes, local mobility and fast exchange occurs. On binding concomitant shifts on Trp19 indole lines and on the aliphatic CH2 protons of the lipids are detected. The lipid perturbation is maximum for methylene groups in a alpha and beta of the ester bond, this could allow positionning of Trp19 in the hydrophobic core of the lipids.", "contents": "Lipid-protein interactions: NMR study of melittin and its binding to lysophosphatidylcholine. Proton NMR of melittin differs according to the association state of the peptide in the monomer or tetramer. Melittin interacts with lysophosphatidyl-choline micelles, whatever the association state of melittin; well resolved superimposed spectra from both components for all the lipid to peptide molar ratios are observed. Within the complexes, local mobility and fast exchange occurs. On binding concomitant shifts on Trp19 indole lines and on the aliphatic CH2 protons of the lipids are detected. The lipid perturbation is maximum for methylene groups in a alpha and beta of the ester bond, this could allow positionning of Trp19 in the hydrophobic core of the lipids.", "PMID": 444514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6735", "title": "Temperature dependence of active K+ transport in cation dimorphic sheep erythrocytes.", "content": "Arrhenius diagrams of K+ pump fluxes measured between 15 degrees C and 41 degrees C were discontinuous in high K+ but not in low K+ sheep red cells. Exposure of low K+ cells to anti-L caused a bimodal temperature response of K+ pump flux with a transition temperature, Tc, similar to that found in high K+ cells but with comparatively higher activation energies above Tc.", "contents": "Temperature dependence of active K+ transport in cation dimorphic sheep erythrocytes. Arrhenius diagrams of K+ pump fluxes measured between 15 degrees C and 41 degrees C were discontinuous in high K+ but not in low K+ sheep red cells. Exposure of low K+ cells to anti-L caused a bimodal temperature response of K+ pump flux with a transition temperature, Tc, similar to that found in high K+ cells but with comparatively higher activation energies above Tc.", "PMID": 444515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6736", "title": "Formation of inside-out vesicles of Bacillus licheniformis. Dependence on buffer composition and lysis procedure.", "content": "1. The extent to which the cytoplasmic membrane of the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus licheniformis formed inside-out vesicles was studied with the freeze-fracture technique. The membrane orientation appeared to be dependent on the buffer compositon as well as on the lysis procedure used. 2. By manipulating these conditions, membrane preparations were obtained with the percentage of inside-out vesicles varying from 15 to 80%. 3. More vesicles had the opposite orientation when the cells were lysed in potassium phosphate buffer than when they were lysed in sodium phosphate buffer. Tris-HCl buffer favoured the formation of inside-out vesicles more than phosphate buffer. 4. Lysis of protoplasts in hypotonic buffers resulted in more inside-out vesicles than did direct lysis of cells in hypotonic media. 5. In an attempt to explain the observed differences, experiments were performed in which the morphology of thin-sectioned lysing cells in sodium phosphate buffer was compared with that in potassium phosphate buffer. The results from these experiments indicate that the formation of inside-out vesicles is brought about by an effect on the membrane itself rather than on the cell wall, on the cell wall membrane association, or on the cytoplasm.", "contents": "Formation of inside-out vesicles of Bacillus licheniformis. Dependence on buffer composition and lysis procedure. 1. The extent to which the cytoplasmic membrane of the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus licheniformis formed inside-out vesicles was studied with the freeze-fracture technique. The membrane orientation appeared to be dependent on the buffer compositon as well as on the lysis procedure used. 2. By manipulating these conditions, membrane preparations were obtained with the percentage of inside-out vesicles varying from 15 to 80%. 3. More vesicles had the opposite orientation when the cells were lysed in potassium phosphate buffer than when they were lysed in sodium phosphate buffer. Tris-HCl buffer favoured the formation of inside-out vesicles more than phosphate buffer. 4. Lysis of protoplasts in hypotonic buffers resulted in more inside-out vesicles than did direct lysis of cells in hypotonic media. 5. In an attempt to explain the observed differences, experiments were performed in which the morphology of thin-sectioned lysing cells in sodium phosphate buffer was compared with that in potassium phosphate buffer. The results from these experiments indicate that the formation of inside-out vesicles is brought about by an effect on the membrane itself rather than on the cell wall, on the cell wall membrane association, or on the cytoplasm.", "PMID": 444516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6737", "title": "Isolation and partial characterization of glycolipids and a carbohydrate from the secondary granules and plasma membrane of polymorphonuclear leukocytes.", "content": "Chloroform/methanol extracts of the secondary granule and plasma membrane fractions of polymorphonuclear leukocytes have been shown to contain both non-polar and polar carbohydrate-containing materials. The ratio of the polar to the non-polar material was much higher in the plasma membrane than the secondary granule fraction. The non-polar material contains at least two ceramide-like glycolipids and accounts for most of the broad band of periodic acid/Schiff-positive material which migrates at the dye front in sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoretic gels of granule and plasma membrane extracts. The polar material appears to be a single substance containing no fatty acids or sialic acid and is composed of glucose, hexosamine and a carboxylic acid derivative of pentose. Expressed on a per mg of protein basis, the amount of carbohydrate associated with the polar material in the plasma membrane fraction was about five times that of the secondary granule fraction.", "contents": "Isolation and partial characterization of glycolipids and a carbohydrate from the secondary granules and plasma membrane of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Chloroform/methanol extracts of the secondary granule and plasma membrane fractions of polymorphonuclear leukocytes have been shown to contain both non-polar and polar carbohydrate-containing materials. The ratio of the polar to the non-polar material was much higher in the plasma membrane than the secondary granule fraction. The non-polar material contains at least two ceramide-like glycolipids and accounts for most of the broad band of periodic acid/Schiff-positive material which migrates at the dye front in sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoretic gels of granule and plasma membrane extracts. The polar material appears to be a single substance containing no fatty acids or sialic acid and is composed of glucose, hexosamine and a carboxylic acid derivative of pentose. Expressed on a per mg of protein basis, the amount of carbohydrate associated with the polar material in the plasma membrane fraction was about five times that of the secondary granule fraction.", "PMID": 444517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6738", "title": "Thymidine transport in cultured mammalian cells. Kinetic analysis, temperature dependence and specificity of the transport system.", "content": "The transport of thymidine has been characterized kinetically and thermodynamically in Novikoff rat hepatoma cells grown in culture and, less extensively, in mouse L cells, Chinese hamster ovary cells, P388 murine leukemia cells and HeLa cells. That the characterizations pertained to the transport system per se was ensured, (i) by employing recently developed methods for rapid sampling of cell/substrate mixtures in order to follow isotope movements within a few seconds after initial exposure of cells to substrate; (ii) by utilizing cells rendered, by genetic or chemical means, incapable of metabolizing thymidine; and (iii) by demonstrating conformity of the transport data to an integrated rate equation derived for a simple, carrier-mediated system. The results indicate that thymidine is transported into mammalian cells by a functionally symmetrical, non-concentrative system for which the carrier : substrate dissociation constant ranges from about 100 microM in Chinese hamster ovary cells, to 230 microM in Novikoff hepatoma cells. In all cell lines investigated, the velocity of transport was sufficient to nearly completely equilibrate low concentration of thymidine across the membrane membrane within 15 s. Temperature dependence of transport velocity and substrate : carrier dissociation were continuous (EA = 18.3 kcal/mol, delta H0' = 9.3 kcal/mol, respectively), and showed no evidence of abrupt transitions. Several natural and artificial nucleosides and nucleic acid bases inhibited influx of radiolabeled thymidine, apparently by competing with thymidine for the transport carrier.", "contents": "Thymidine transport in cultured mammalian cells. Kinetic analysis, temperature dependence and specificity of the transport system. The transport of thymidine has been characterized kinetically and thermodynamically in Novikoff rat hepatoma cells grown in culture and, less extensively, in mouse L cells, Chinese hamster ovary cells, P388 murine leukemia cells and HeLa cells. That the characterizations pertained to the transport system per se was ensured, (i) by employing recently developed methods for rapid sampling of cell/substrate mixtures in order to follow isotope movements within a few seconds after initial exposure of cells to substrate; (ii) by utilizing cells rendered, by genetic or chemical means, incapable of metabolizing thymidine; and (iii) by demonstrating conformity of the transport data to an integrated rate equation derived for a simple, carrier-mediated system. The results indicate that thymidine is transported into mammalian cells by a functionally symmetrical, non-concentrative system for which the carrier : substrate dissociation constant ranges from about 100 microM in Chinese hamster ovary cells, to 230 microM in Novikoff hepatoma cells. In all cell lines investigated, the velocity of transport was sufficient to nearly completely equilibrate low concentration of thymidine across the membrane membrane within 15 s. Temperature dependence of transport velocity and substrate : carrier dissociation were continuous (EA = 18.3 kcal/mol, delta H0' = 9.3 kcal/mol, respectively), and showed no evidence of abrupt transitions. Several natural and artificial nucleosides and nucleic acid bases inhibited influx of radiolabeled thymidine, apparently by competing with thymidine for the transport carrier.", "PMID": 444518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6739", "title": "Reconstitution into liposomes of glucose active transport from the rabbit renal proximal tubule. Characteristics of the system.", "content": "This paper describes the characteristics of Na+ -dependent D-glucose transport into liposomes made from soybean phospholipids into which have been reconstituted detergent-solubilized components from the rabbit renal proximal tubular brush border membrane. Conditions for optimal and quantitative reconstitution of glucose carriers are defined. Na+ -dependent D-glucose uptake occurs via a saturable system with a Km of 0.125--0.135 mM, is responsive to the volume of the internal liposomal space, and shows 'overshoot' as seen in natural membranes. The rate of Na+-dependent D-glucose uptake and the magnitude of the 'overshoot\" are proportional to the concentration of protein used in reconstitution.", "contents": "Reconstitution into liposomes of glucose active transport from the rabbit renal proximal tubule. Characteristics of the system. This paper describes the characteristics of Na+ -dependent D-glucose transport into liposomes made from soybean phospholipids into which have been reconstituted detergent-solubilized components from the rabbit renal proximal tubular brush border membrane. Conditions for optimal and quantitative reconstitution of glucose carriers are defined. Na+ -dependent D-glucose uptake occurs via a saturable system with a Km of 0.125--0.135 mM, is responsive to the volume of the internal liposomal space, and shows 'overshoot' as seen in natural membranes. The rate of Na+-dependent D-glucose uptake and the magnitude of the 'overshoot\" are proportional to the concentration of protein used in reconstitution.", "PMID": 444519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6740", "title": "Transfer of cholesterol between liposomal membranes.", "content": "The transfer of cholesterol between liposomal membranes was examined. On incubation of liposomes compsoed of egg yolk phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidic acid and cholesterol (molar percentage, 65.8 : 1.3 : 32.9 or 65.5 : 6.3 : 31.2), almost complete equilibration of the cholesterol pools was achieved within 6 to 8 h at 37 degrees C. The rate of transfer of cholesterol from the liposomes, in which cholesterol was introduced by 'the exchange reaction', was not significantly different from that from liposomes prepared in the presence of cholesterol, in which the cholesterol was distributed homogenously. These findings indicate that half life for 'flip-flop' of cholesterol molecules in egg yolk phosphatidylcholine liposomes is less than 6 h at 37 degrees C. The transfer of cholesterol between liposomes was strongly dependent on temperature and was affected by the fatty acid composition of the phospholipid, suggesting that the 'fluidity' of the membranes strongly influences the transfer rate. A preferential distribution of cholesterol molecules was observed in heterogeneous liposomes with different classes of phospholipids. The 'affinity order' of cholesterol for phospholipid deduced from the present experiments is as follows: beef brain sphingomyelin greater than dipalmitoylglycerophosphocholine = dimyristoylglycerophosphocholine greater than egg yolk phosphatidylcholine.", "contents": "Transfer of cholesterol between liposomal membranes. The transfer of cholesterol between liposomal membranes was examined. On incubation of liposomes compsoed of egg yolk phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidic acid and cholesterol (molar percentage, 65.8 : 1.3 : 32.9 or 65.5 : 6.3 : 31.2), almost complete equilibration of the cholesterol pools was achieved within 6 to 8 h at 37 degrees C. The rate of transfer of cholesterol from the liposomes, in which cholesterol was introduced by 'the exchange reaction', was not significantly different from that from liposomes prepared in the presence of cholesterol, in which the cholesterol was distributed homogenously. These findings indicate that half life for 'flip-flop' of cholesterol molecules in egg yolk phosphatidylcholine liposomes is less than 6 h at 37 degrees C. The transfer of cholesterol between liposomes was strongly dependent on temperature and was affected by the fatty acid composition of the phospholipid, suggesting that the 'fluidity' of the membranes strongly influences the transfer rate. A preferential distribution of cholesterol molecules was observed in heterogeneous liposomes with different classes of phospholipids. The 'affinity order' of cholesterol for phospholipid deduced from the present experiments is as follows: beef brain sphingomyelin greater than dipalmitoylglycerophosphocholine = dimyristoylglycerophosphocholine greater than egg yolk phosphatidylcholine.", "PMID": 444520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6741", "title": "Theory of single-file noise.", "content": "A general theoretical approach to the analysis of electric fluctuations generated by the so-called single-file diffusion through narrow channels is presented. The formalism is a slight extension of an approach to electric fluctuations in discrete transport systems with negligible interactions between the particles recently developed by one of the authors. In the single-file transport mechanism interactions between the particles must be taken into account. Three main results of principal interest are: (a) the electric fluctuations around stationary states (at equilibrium and non-equilibrium) are determined by the time-dependent solutions of the macroscopic single-file transport equations, (b) as a direct consquence of the interactions between the ions in the single-file transport the macroscopic time-dependent current and the autocorrelation function of the microscopic current fluctuations can exhibit damped oscillatory behavior, and the current noise spectrum can show peaking, (c) the number of binding sites for the ions within the pores seems to have a strong influence on the oscillatory behavior: with increasing number of binding sites the damping of the oscillations decreases and the peaking of the spectrum becomes stronger.", "contents": "Theory of single-file noise. A general theoretical approach to the analysis of electric fluctuations generated by the so-called single-file diffusion through narrow channels is presented. The formalism is a slight extension of an approach to electric fluctuations in discrete transport systems with negligible interactions between the particles recently developed by one of the authors. In the single-file transport mechanism interactions between the particles must be taken into account. Three main results of principal interest are: (a) the electric fluctuations around stationary states (at equilibrium and non-equilibrium) are determined by the time-dependent solutions of the macroscopic single-file transport equations, (b) as a direct consquence of the interactions between the ions in the single-file transport the macroscopic time-dependent current and the autocorrelation function of the microscopic current fluctuations can exhibit damped oscillatory behavior, and the current noise spectrum can show peaking, (c) the number of binding sites for the ions within the pores seems to have a strong influence on the oscillatory behavior: with increasing number of binding sites the damping of the oscillations decreases and the peaking of the spectrum becomes stronger.", "PMID": 444521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6742", "title": "Light scattering turbidity changes as a measure of the kinetics of Ca2+ -promoted aggregation of chromaffin granule membrane ghosts.", "content": "Changes in turbidity seen when chromaffin granule membrane ghosts are aggregated by Ca2+ can be modelled as dimerization of hollow spheres using Rayleigh-Gans-Debye light-scattering theory. The experimental changes agree well with the calculations. Thus, if shape or refractive index changes produced by osmotic perturbation, ion uptake, etc. can be excluded, turbidity readings can be used to follow the progress of the aggregation reaction of storage vesicles and other small particles or macromolecules.", "contents": "Light scattering turbidity changes as a measure of the kinetics of Ca2+ -promoted aggregation of chromaffin granule membrane ghosts. Changes in turbidity seen when chromaffin granule membrane ghosts are aggregated by Ca2+ can be modelled as dimerization of hollow spheres using Rayleigh-Gans-Debye light-scattering theory. The experimental changes agree well with the calculations. Thus, if shape or refractive index changes produced by osmotic perturbation, ion uptake, etc. can be excluded, turbidity readings can be used to follow the progress of the aggregation reaction of storage vesicles and other small particles or macromolecules.", "PMID": 444522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6743", "title": "Laser Raman studies of lipid disordering by the B-protein of fd phage.", "content": "Complexes of the B-protein of fd phage with the model lipid dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) were made by sonication of the fd phage in the presence of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. Both laser Raman spectra and circular dichroism show the protein in the membrane to be almost entirely in the beta-sheet conformation. This beta-sheet conformation is found to be independent of the temperature between 10 degrees C and 50 degrees C. On the other hand, the protein has a very dramatic effect on the organization of the lipid bilayer. An aqueous dispersion of 1 : 1 lipid/protein mixture gives a broad conformational transition of DPPC which occurs between 10 degrees C and 30 degrees C. This contrasts markedly with simple aqueous DPPC dispersions which show a sharp transition at 41 degrees C. This appears to be the first reported example of the lowering of the conformational transition of a membrane bilayer by an intrinsic membrane protein.", "contents": "Laser Raman studies of lipid disordering by the B-protein of fd phage. Complexes of the B-protein of fd phage with the model lipid dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) were made by sonication of the fd phage in the presence of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. Both laser Raman spectra and circular dichroism show the protein in the membrane to be almost entirely in the beta-sheet conformation. This beta-sheet conformation is found to be independent of the temperature between 10 degrees C and 50 degrees C. On the other hand, the protein has a very dramatic effect on the organization of the lipid bilayer. An aqueous dispersion of 1 : 1 lipid/protein mixture gives a broad conformational transition of DPPC which occurs between 10 degrees C and 30 degrees C. This contrasts markedly with simple aqueous DPPC dispersions which show a sharp transition at 41 degrees C. This appears to be the first reported example of the lowering of the conformational transition of a membrane bilayer by an intrinsic membrane protein.", "PMID": 444523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6744", "title": "Correlations of conformational parameters and equilibrium conformational states in a variety of beta-D-arabinonucleosides and their analogues.", "content": "H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy has been applied to a study of the conformations of a variety of purine and pyrimidine beta-D-arabinofuranosyl nucleosides. The experimental results, together with data collected from the literature, demonstrated the existence of reasonably good correlations between the coupling constants made it possible to define more accurately, than hitherto possible, the conformational states between which equilibria exist in solution. The equilibrium for the arabinonucleosides differs from that previously established for ribonucleosides; in particular, structural modifications and solvent effects may appreciably modify the conformational states between which equilibria exist. Preliminary measurements on some arabinosides in the syn conformation about the glycosidic bond indicated that these do not conform to the foregoing correlations, and will require separate study. A correlation has also been established between the conformation of the arabinose ring and that of the exocyclic 5'-CH2OH group. For both purine and pyrimidine arabinonucleosides, the conformational state 3E of the arabinose ring coexists to some extent with a gauche-gauche conformation of the exocyclic 5'-CH2OH, as in the case of pyrimidine (but not purine) ribonucleosides. Application of the foregoing to some biological problems is described.", "contents": "Correlations of conformational parameters and equilibrium conformational states in a variety of beta-D-arabinonucleosides and their analogues. H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy has been applied to a study of the conformations of a variety of purine and pyrimidine beta-D-arabinofuranosyl nucleosides. The experimental results, together with data collected from the literature, demonstrated the existence of reasonably good correlations between the coupling constants made it possible to define more accurately, than hitherto possible, the conformational states between which equilibria exist in solution. The equilibrium for the arabinonucleosides differs from that previously established for ribonucleosides; in particular, structural modifications and solvent effects may appreciably modify the conformational states between which equilibria exist. Preliminary measurements on some arabinosides in the syn conformation about the glycosidic bond indicated that these do not conform to the foregoing correlations, and will require separate study. A correlation has also been established between the conformation of the arabinose ring and that of the exocyclic 5'-CH2OH group. For both purine and pyrimidine arabinonucleosides, the conformational state 3E of the arabinose ring coexists to some extent with a gauche-gauche conformation of the exocyclic 5'-CH2OH, as in the case of pyrimidine (but not purine) ribonucleosides. Application of the foregoing to some biological problems is described.", "PMID": 444524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6745", "title": "Characterization of the nuclear genome of pearl millet.", "content": "The nuclear genome of pearl millet has been characterized with respect to its size, buoyant density in CsCl equilibrium density gradients, melting temperature, reassociation kinetics and sequence organization. The genome size is 0.22 pg. The mol percent G + C of the DNA is calculated from the buoyant density and the melting temperature to be 44.9 and 49.7%, respectively. The reassociation kinetics of fragments of DNA 300 nucleotides long reveals three components: a rapidly renaturing fraction composed of highly repeated and/or foldback DNA, middle repetitive DNA and single copy DNA. The single copy DNA consists of 17% of the genome. 80% of the repetitive sequences are at least 5000 nucleotide pairs in length. Thermal denaturation profiles of the repetitive DNA sequences show high Tm values implying a high degree of sequence homogeneity. About half of the single copy DNA is short (750--1400 nucleotide paris) and interspersed with long repetitive DNA sequences. The remainder of the single copy sequences vary in size from 1400 to 8600 nucleotide pairs.", "contents": "Characterization of the nuclear genome of pearl millet. The nuclear genome of pearl millet has been characterized with respect to its size, buoyant density in CsCl equilibrium density gradients, melting temperature, reassociation kinetics and sequence organization. The genome size is 0.22 pg. The mol percent G + C of the DNA is calculated from the buoyant density and the melting temperature to be 44.9 and 49.7%, respectively. The reassociation kinetics of fragments of DNA 300 nucleotides long reveals three components: a rapidly renaturing fraction composed of highly repeated and/or foldback DNA, middle repetitive DNA and single copy DNA. The single copy DNA consists of 17% of the genome. 80% of the repetitive sequences are at least 5000 nucleotide pairs in length. Thermal denaturation profiles of the repetitive DNA sequences show high Tm values implying a high degree of sequence homogeneity. About half of the single copy DNA is short (750--1400 nucleotide paris) and interspersed with long repetitive DNA sequences. The remainder of the single copy sequences vary in size from 1400 to 8600 nucleotide pairs.", "PMID": 444525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6746", "title": "A laser flash photolysis study of the reactivities of the triplet states of 8-methoxypsoralen and 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen with nucleic acid bases in solution.", "content": "The extinction coefficients, quantum yields and reactivities of the triplet states of 8-methoxypsoralen and 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen in methanolic solution have been determined using laser flash photolysis techniques. The second-order rate constants for the quenching of these triplet states by pyrimidine and purine bases were found to be several orders of magnitude lower than those found for other furocoumarin derivatives. This may suggest, therefore, that the skin photosensitising ability of such compounds does not necessarily correlate with in vitro triplet state reactivity. Preliminary experiments on the reactivity of the psoralen triplet state with DNA itself indicate that no transient absorptions due to psoralen excited states can be observed when a photon is absorbed by the psoralen-DNA complex.", "contents": "A laser flash photolysis study of the reactivities of the triplet states of 8-methoxypsoralen and 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen with nucleic acid bases in solution. The extinction coefficients, quantum yields and reactivities of the triplet states of 8-methoxypsoralen and 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen in methanolic solution have been determined using laser flash photolysis techniques. The second-order rate constants for the quenching of these triplet states by pyrimidine and purine bases were found to be several orders of magnitude lower than those found for other furocoumarin derivatives. This may suggest, therefore, that the skin photosensitising ability of such compounds does not necessarily correlate with in vitro triplet state reactivity. Preliminary experiments on the reactivity of the psoralen triplet state with DNA itself indicate that no transient absorptions due to psoralen excited states can be observed when a photon is absorbed by the psoralen-DNA complex.", "PMID": 444526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6747", "title": "DNA fork displacement rates in synchronous aneuploid and diploid mammalian cells.", "content": "DNA fork displacement rates were measured in Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO), human HeLa cells and human diploid fibroblasts. For CHO cells two independent techniques were used: one based on CsCl equilibrium density gradients and the other on 313 nm photolysis of incorporated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd). Both methods indicated that there was no significant variation in fork displacement rates in CHO cells as they progressed through S phase. Asynchronous CHO cultures displayed the same average value (1.0 micron/min) and range of values as found in synchronous cells. In contrast, the rate of DNA fork displacement in HeLa cells, measured by the BrdUrd-313 nm method, increased continuously from 0.8 micron/min in early S to 2.5 micron/min in late S. For human diploid fibroblasts, in early S, the rate was approximately 0.7 micron/min and decreased to a minimum of 0.5 micron/min in mid S. The replication fork displacement rate then increased to a maximum of 0.9 micron/min in late S and declined again before the end of S phase. This pattern of DNA fork displacement rates roughly paralleled the overall thymidine incorporation rate and appears quite different from the patterns found for HeLa and CHO cells.", "contents": "DNA fork displacement rates in synchronous aneuploid and diploid mammalian cells. DNA fork displacement rates were measured in Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO), human HeLa cells and human diploid fibroblasts. For CHO cells two independent techniques were used: one based on CsCl equilibrium density gradients and the other on 313 nm photolysis of incorporated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd). Both methods indicated that there was no significant variation in fork displacement rates in CHO cells as they progressed through S phase. Asynchronous CHO cultures displayed the same average value (1.0 micron/min) and range of values as found in synchronous cells. In contrast, the rate of DNA fork displacement in HeLa cells, measured by the BrdUrd-313 nm method, increased continuously from 0.8 micron/min in early S to 2.5 micron/min in late S. For human diploid fibroblasts, in early S, the rate was approximately 0.7 micron/min and decreased to a minimum of 0.5 micron/min in mid S. The replication fork displacement rate then increased to a maximum of 0.9 micron/min in late S and declined again before the end of S phase. This pattern of DNA fork displacement rates roughly paralleled the overall thymidine incorporation rate and appears quite different from the patterns found for HeLa and CHO cells.", "PMID": 444527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6748", "title": "Direct association of messenger RNA-containing ribonucleoprotein particles with membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum in ethionine-treated rat liver.", "content": "The administration of ethionine to female rats causes breakdown of hepatic polysomes. The fate of the mRNA molecules after polysome breakdown was investigated by measuring the amount of poly(A)-containing mRNA in membranous and non-membranous fractions obtained from the cytoplasm of ethionine-treated rat liver. The amount of poly(A)-containing mRNA in the membrane fraction of ethionine-treated liver was found to be the same as that of normal liver. When poly(A)-containing mRNAs from various fractions were translated in a wheat germ system and the products were isolated by immunoprecipitation, the albumin-specific mRNA was found exclusively in the membrane fraction of both normal and ethionine-treated livers. The membrane-bound mRNA in ethionine-treated liver, selectively labeled with [14C]orotate, was banded in CsCl gradient centrifugation at 1.42 g/ml which corresponds to the previously reported mRNA-containing ribonucleoprotein particles. From these results, we concluded that even after the polysome disaggregation by ethionine, most of the mRNA of membrane-bound polysomes remains attached to the endoplasmic reticulum membranes independently of ribosomes and the nascent polypeptide chains.", "contents": "Direct association of messenger RNA-containing ribonucleoprotein particles with membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum in ethionine-treated rat liver. The administration of ethionine to female rats causes breakdown of hepatic polysomes. The fate of the mRNA molecules after polysome breakdown was investigated by measuring the amount of poly(A)-containing mRNA in membranous and non-membranous fractions obtained from the cytoplasm of ethionine-treated rat liver. The amount of poly(A)-containing mRNA in the membrane fraction of ethionine-treated liver was found to be the same as that of normal liver. When poly(A)-containing mRNAs from various fractions were translated in a wheat germ system and the products were isolated by immunoprecipitation, the albumin-specific mRNA was found exclusively in the membrane fraction of both normal and ethionine-treated livers. The membrane-bound mRNA in ethionine-treated liver, selectively labeled with [14C]orotate, was banded in CsCl gradient centrifugation at 1.42 g/ml which corresponds to the previously reported mRNA-containing ribonucleoprotein particles. From these results, we concluded that even after the polysome disaggregation by ethionine, most of the mRNA of membrane-bound polysomes remains attached to the endoplasmic reticulum membranes independently of ribosomes and the nascent polypeptide chains.", "PMID": 444528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6749", "title": "Partial base-methylation and other structural differences in the 17 S ribosomal RNA of sycamore cells during growth in cell culture.", "content": "Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) cytoplasmic rRNA was investigated in rapidly dividing cells, cells starting mitosis after the lag phase of growth (4 days) induced by deconditioning of the culture medium and also in growth-arrested cells from 10 day-old cultures deprived of exogenous auxin (i.e. exponential, early exponential and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D)-deprived cultures). rRNA was extracted and purified from mixed 14C-labelled exponential cultures and 3H-labelled early exponential cultures. A 14C-labelled exponential culture and a 3H-labelled 2,4-D-deprived culture were analyzed in the same way. The 17 S rRNA molecules from both early exponential and 2,4-D-deprived cultures displayed a lower electrophoretic mobility on polyacrylamide gels than those from exponential cultures. Alkaline and acid hydrolysates of purified 17 S rRNA labelled on the phosphate groups or the methyl groups were analyzed on ion-exchange resins. There was no change in the extent of ribose methylation of the molecule from the three different cultures. However, the base methylation of the 17 S rRNA was decreased in early exponential cultures and in 2,4-D-deprived cultures. Part of the molecules synthesized in early exponential cultures specifically lacked 7-methylguanine, N6-methyladenine and N6,N6-dimethyladenine. The possible significance of these changes in the 17 S rRNA were discussed.", "contents": "Partial base-methylation and other structural differences in the 17 S ribosomal RNA of sycamore cells during growth in cell culture. Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) cytoplasmic rRNA was investigated in rapidly dividing cells, cells starting mitosis after the lag phase of growth (4 days) induced by deconditioning of the culture medium and also in growth-arrested cells from 10 day-old cultures deprived of exogenous auxin (i.e. exponential, early exponential and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D)-deprived cultures). rRNA was extracted and purified from mixed 14C-labelled exponential cultures and 3H-labelled early exponential cultures. A 14C-labelled exponential culture and a 3H-labelled 2,4-D-deprived culture were analyzed in the same way. The 17 S rRNA molecules from both early exponential and 2,4-D-deprived cultures displayed a lower electrophoretic mobility on polyacrylamide gels than those from exponential cultures. Alkaline and acid hydrolysates of purified 17 S rRNA labelled on the phosphate groups or the methyl groups were analyzed on ion-exchange resins. There was no change in the extent of ribose methylation of the molecule from the three different cultures. However, the base methylation of the 17 S rRNA was decreased in early exponential cultures and in 2,4-D-deprived cultures. Part of the molecules synthesized in early exponential cultures specifically lacked 7-methylguanine, N6-methyladenine and N6,N6-dimethyladenine. The possible significance of these changes in the 17 S rRNA were discussed.", "PMID": 444529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6750", "title": "An electron microscopic study of the photochemical cross-linking of DNA in guinea pig epidermis by psoralen derivatives.", "content": "Albino guinea pigs were treated with psoralen derivatives plus 320--400 nm ultraviolet radiation, and DNA was extracted from their epidermis. The DNA was assayed for the presence of interstrand cross-links by standard denaturation-renaturation assays and by a new technique, electron microscopy of the DNA under totally denaturing conditions. The latter method allows individual cross-links to be directly observed and counted. When either 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen or 8-methoxypsoralen was applied topically to the skin (8--20 microgram/cm2) or administered orally (10--12 mg/kg body weight), followed by exposure to 320--400 nm ultraviolet radiation, most of the epidermal DNA was found to contain a high frequency of cross-links. For example, oral or topical trimethylpsoralen treatment gave an average of one cross-link per 250 nucleotide pairs or about 3 . 10(5) cross-links per guinea pig chromosome. When the dose of either drug was decreased 20-fold to the level used in the clinical treatment of psoriasis, however, no cross-links coulld be detected in the epidermal DNA. The electron microscopic assay is sensitive enough that we can put an upper limit of 1 cross-link per 10(6) nucleotide pairs (80 cross-links per chromosome) for the low dose studies. The significance of these findings to the understanding of the effectiveness of psoralens in psoriasis therapy is discussed.", "contents": "An electron microscopic study of the photochemical cross-linking of DNA in guinea pig epidermis by psoralen derivatives. Albino guinea pigs were treated with psoralen derivatives plus 320--400 nm ultraviolet radiation, and DNA was extracted from their epidermis. The DNA was assayed for the presence of interstrand cross-links by standard denaturation-renaturation assays and by a new technique, electron microscopy of the DNA under totally denaturing conditions. The latter method allows individual cross-links to be directly observed and counted. When either 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen or 8-methoxypsoralen was applied topically to the skin (8--20 microgram/cm2) or administered orally (10--12 mg/kg body weight), followed by exposure to 320--400 nm ultraviolet radiation, most of the epidermal DNA was found to contain a high frequency of cross-links. For example, oral or topical trimethylpsoralen treatment gave an average of one cross-link per 250 nucleotide pairs or about 3 . 10(5) cross-links per guinea pig chromosome. When the dose of either drug was decreased 20-fold to the level used in the clinical treatment of psoriasis, however, no cross-links coulld be detected in the epidermal DNA. The electron microscopic assay is sensitive enough that we can put an upper limit of 1 cross-link per 10(6) nucleotide pairs (80 cross-links per chromosome) for the low dose studies. The significance of these findings to the understanding of the effectiveness of psoralens in psoriasis therapy is discussed.", "PMID": 444530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6751", "title": "The crystal and molecular structure of the polymeric copper (II) complex of inosine 5'-monophosphate. A comparison with the previously reported zinc analogue.", "content": "X-ray analysis of [Cu . (5'-IMP) . H2O] has shown a structure containing polymeric chains of composition [Cu.5'-IMP]n in which the copper atom is directly bound to N(7) of the base and to three oxygen atoms of different phosphate groups. Whereas the coordination geometry in the analogous zinc complex resembles a distorted tetrahedrom, that in the copper complex is a distorted square plane with weak axial interactions.", "contents": "The crystal and molecular structure of the polymeric copper (II) complex of inosine 5'-monophosphate. A comparison with the previously reported zinc analogue. X-ray analysis of [Cu . (5'-IMP) . H2O] has shown a structure containing polymeric chains of composition [Cu.5'-IMP]n in which the copper atom is directly bound to N(7) of the base and to three oxygen atoms of different phosphate groups. Whereas the coordination geometry in the analogous zinc complex resembles a distorted tetrahedrom, that in the copper complex is a distorted square plane with weak axial interactions.", "PMID": 444531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6752", "title": "Fluorinated aldehydes and ketones acting as quasi-substrate inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase.", "content": "1. The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) by compounds containing trifluoromethyl-carbonyl groups was investigated and related to the effects observed with structurally similar, non-fluorinated chemicals. 2. Compounds that in aqueous solution readily form hydrates inhibit acetylcholinesterase in a time-dependent process. On the other hand non-hydrated, carbonyl-containing compounds showed rapid and reversible, time-independent enzyme inactivation when assayed under steady state conditions. 3. m-N,N,N-Trimethylammonium-acetophenone acts as a rapid and reversible, time-independent, linear competitive inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (Ki = 5.0 . 10(-7) M). 4. The most potent enzyme inhibitor tested in this series was N,N,N,-trimethylammonium-m-trifluoroacetophenone. It gives time-dependent inhibition and the concentration which inactivates eel acetylcholinesterase to 50% of the original activity after 30 min exposure is 1.3 . 10(-8) M. The bimolecular rate constant for this reaction is 1.8 . 10(6) 1 . mol-1 . min-1. The enzyme-inhibitor complex is very stable as the inhibited enzyme after 8 days of dialysis is reactivated to 20% only. This compound represents a quasi-substrate inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase.", "contents": "Fluorinated aldehydes and ketones acting as quasi-substrate inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase. 1. The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) by compounds containing trifluoromethyl-carbonyl groups was investigated and related to the effects observed with structurally similar, non-fluorinated chemicals. 2. Compounds that in aqueous solution readily form hydrates inhibit acetylcholinesterase in a time-dependent process. On the other hand non-hydrated, carbonyl-containing compounds showed rapid and reversible, time-independent enzyme inactivation when assayed under steady state conditions. 3. m-N,N,N-Trimethylammonium-acetophenone acts as a rapid and reversible, time-independent, linear competitive inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (Ki = 5.0 . 10(-7) M). 4. The most potent enzyme inhibitor tested in this series was N,N,N,-trimethylammonium-m-trifluoroacetophenone. It gives time-dependent inhibition and the concentration which inactivates eel acetylcholinesterase to 50% of the original activity after 30 min exposure is 1.3 . 10(-8) M. The bimolecular rate constant for this reaction is 1.8 . 10(6) 1 . mol-1 . min-1. The enzyme-inhibitor complex is very stable as the inhibited enzyme after 8 days of dialysis is reactivated to 20% only. This compound represents a quasi-substrate inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase.", "PMID": 444532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6753", "title": "Carbamyl phosphate-dependent ATP synthesis catalyzed by formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase.", "content": "Formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase (formate:tetrahydrofolate ligase (ADP-forming), EC 6.3.4.3) from Clostridium cylindrosporum catalyzes phosphate transfer from carbamyl phosphate to ADP. This activity is lost when monovalent cations are removed and is recovered when K+ is added back. Carbamyl phosphate is an inhibitor of the formyltetrahydrolfolate synthetase forward reaction, and formate as well as phosphate inhibit the ATP synthesis reaction. Acetyl phosphate and phosphonoacetate are inhibitors of both reactions. The results of kinetic studies support the concept that carbamyl phosphate is an analog of the putative intermediate of the formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase reaction, formyl phosphate.", "contents": "Carbamyl phosphate-dependent ATP synthesis catalyzed by formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase. Formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase (formate:tetrahydrofolate ligase (ADP-forming), EC 6.3.4.3) from Clostridium cylindrosporum catalyzes phosphate transfer from carbamyl phosphate to ADP. This activity is lost when monovalent cations are removed and is recovered when K+ is added back. Carbamyl phosphate is an inhibitor of the formyltetrahydrolfolate synthetase forward reaction, and formate as well as phosphate inhibit the ATP synthesis reaction. Acetyl phosphate and phosphonoacetate are inhibitors of both reactions. The results of kinetic studies support the concept that carbamyl phosphate is an analog of the putative intermediate of the formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase reaction, formyl phosphate.", "PMID": 444533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6754", "title": "Purification and properties of a nuclear DNA endonuclease from HeLa S3 cells.", "content": "An endonuclease that can act on calf thymus DNA and circular doublestranded phage PM2 DNA has been isolated from HeLa S3 cell chromatin. Approximately 200-fold purification was achieved by a sequence of subcellular fractionation, differential NaCl solubility and chromatography on CM-Sephadex, DEAE-cellulose and hydroxyapatite, and isoelectric point is pH 5.1 +/- 0.2. Divalent cations are necessary for its activity and the enzyme is heat inactivated at 60 degrees C. The enzyme activity is sensitive to caffeine and sulfhydryl reacting compounds. The molecular weight, determined by gel filtration and SDS gel electrophoresis, is approx. 22 000.", "contents": "Purification and properties of a nuclear DNA endonuclease from HeLa S3 cells. An endonuclease that can act on calf thymus DNA and circular doublestranded phage PM2 DNA has been isolated from HeLa S3 cell chromatin. Approximately 200-fold purification was achieved by a sequence of subcellular fractionation, differential NaCl solubility and chromatography on CM-Sephadex, DEAE-cellulose and hydroxyapatite, and isoelectric point is pH 5.1 +/- 0.2. Divalent cations are necessary for its activity and the enzyme is heat inactivated at 60 degrees C. The enzyme activity is sensitive to caffeine and sulfhydryl reacting compounds. The molecular weight, determined by gel filtration and SDS gel electrophoresis, is approx. 22 000.", "PMID": 444534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6755", "title": "Principles of enzyme stabilization. V. The possibility of enzyme selfstabilization under the action of potentially reversible intramolecular cross-linkages of different length.", "content": "The denaturing action of guanidine . HCl on modified alpha-chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1) preparations has been studied. The consecutive treatment of alpha-chymotrypsin with N-acetyl-homocysteine thiolactone, 5,5'-dithio-bis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) and dithiols of HS-(CH2)n-SH type, with n ranging from 4 to 10, leads to enzyme stabilization as a result of protein modification. A greater stabilization effect can be achieved by enriching the protein molecule with groups reactive towards dithiols, after first modifying carboxygroups. In this case dithiol with n=5 forms an intramolecular cross-linkage. If an equimolecular mixture of different dithiols is used for enzyme modification, the enzyme gradually 'selects' 1,5-dithiol for the formation of an intramolecular cross-linkage instead of the initial one-point modification. The use of potentially reversible cross-linkages may be generally employed for the preparation of stabilized water-soluble enzymes via the mechanism of selfstabilization.", "contents": "Principles of enzyme stabilization. V. The possibility of enzyme selfstabilization under the action of potentially reversible intramolecular cross-linkages of different length. The denaturing action of guanidine . HCl on modified alpha-chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1) preparations has been studied. The consecutive treatment of alpha-chymotrypsin with N-acetyl-homocysteine thiolactone, 5,5'-dithio-bis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) and dithiols of HS-(CH2)n-SH type, with n ranging from 4 to 10, leads to enzyme stabilization as a result of protein modification. A greater stabilization effect can be achieved by enriching the protein molecule with groups reactive towards dithiols, after first modifying carboxygroups. In this case dithiol with n=5 forms an intramolecular cross-linkage. If an equimolecular mixture of different dithiols is used for enzyme modification, the enzyme gradually 'selects' 1,5-dithiol for the formation of an intramolecular cross-linkage instead of the initial one-point modification. The use of potentially reversible cross-linkages may be generally employed for the preparation of stabilized water-soluble enzymes via the mechanism of selfstabilization.", "PMID": 444535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6756", "title": "Synthesis of active site-directed organometallic irreversible protease inhibitors.", "content": "p-Antimonybenzenesulfonyl fluoride and p-mercurybenzenesulfonyl fluoride irreversibly inhibit chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1), trypsin (EC 3.4.21.4), and chromosomal protease, and these inhibitors appear to be as active as phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride. The pretreatment of the proteases interferes with the phosphorylation of the active-site serine by diisopropylfluorophosphate suggesting that the organometallic inhibitors may also interact with the active site serine. The organometallic inhibitors may be used for localization of proteases in different parts of the cell by electron microscopy and p-mercurybenzenesulfonyl fluoride could also be used for isolation of proteases by sulfhydryl affinity chromatography.", "contents": "Synthesis of active site-directed organometallic irreversible protease inhibitors. p-Antimonybenzenesulfonyl fluoride and p-mercurybenzenesulfonyl fluoride irreversibly inhibit chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1), trypsin (EC 3.4.21.4), and chromosomal protease, and these inhibitors appear to be as active as phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride. The pretreatment of the proteases interferes with the phosphorylation of the active-site serine by diisopropylfluorophosphate suggesting that the organometallic inhibitors may also interact with the active site serine. The organometallic inhibitors may be used for localization of proteases in different parts of the cell by electron microscopy and p-mercurybenzenesulfonyl fluoride could also be used for isolation of proteases by sulfhydryl affinity chromatography.", "PMID": 444536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6757", "title": "Studies on proteinases from Calotropis gigantea latex. I. Purification and some properties of two proteinases containing carbohydrate.", "content": "Two proteinase containing carbohydrate, called calotropain-FI and calotropain-FII, were purified from Calotropis gigantea latex by CM-Sephadex C-50 chromatography. Both calotropain-FI and FII were found to be homogeneous by rechromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50, gel filtration on Sephadex G-100, electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel and by N-terminal amino acid analysis. Some properties of these enzymes are reported.", "contents": "Studies on proteinases from Calotropis gigantea latex. I. Purification and some properties of two proteinases containing carbohydrate. Two proteinase containing carbohydrate, called calotropain-FI and calotropain-FII, were purified from Calotropis gigantea latex by CM-Sephadex C-50 chromatography. Both calotropain-FI and FII were found to be homogeneous by rechromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50, gel filtration on Sephadex G-100, electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel and by N-terminal amino acid analysis. Some properties of these enzymes are reported.", "PMID": 444537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6758", "title": "Studies on proteinases from Calotropis gigantea latex. II. Physico-chemichal properties of calotropain-FI and FII.", "content": "The molecular weights of purified calotropain-FI and FII were determined by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by filtration of Sephadex G-100. Activation of calotropain-FI and FII by different sulfhydryl activators was studied. The results obtained from inhibition studies by various enzyme-modifying reagents suggest the possible role of cysteine and histidine residues in the active site of both the enzymes. The free and total sulfhydryl contents of both the enzymes were determined by the use of 5-5'-dithio-bis-2-nitrobenzoic acid. Total amino acid compositions of both the enzymes were also determined. A comparative study of the esterase, amidase, milk-clotting and caseinolytic activities of calotropain-FI and FII are also presented.", "contents": "Studies on proteinases from Calotropis gigantea latex. II. Physico-chemichal properties of calotropain-FI and FII. The molecular weights of purified calotropain-FI and FII were determined by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by filtration of Sephadex G-100. Activation of calotropain-FI and FII by different sulfhydryl activators was studied. The results obtained from inhibition studies by various enzyme-modifying reagents suggest the possible role of cysteine and histidine residues in the active site of both the enzymes. The free and total sulfhydryl contents of both the enzymes were determined by the use of 5-5'-dithio-bis-2-nitrobenzoic acid. Total amino acid compositions of both the enzymes were also determined. A comparative study of the esterase, amidase, milk-clotting and caseinolytic activities of calotropain-FI and FII are also presented.", "PMID": 444538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6759", "title": "Modification of arginyl residues in ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase from spinach leaves.", "content": "Reaction of spinach leaves ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase (NADPH:ferredoxin oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.7.1) with alpha-dicarbonyl compounds results in a biphasic loss of activity. The rapid phase yields modified enzyme with about 30% of the original activity, but no change in the Km for NADPH. Only partial protection against inactivation is provided by NADP+, NADPH and their analogs, whereas ferredoxin affords complete protection. The reductase inactivated to 30% of original activity shows a loss of about two arginyl residues, whereas only one residue is lost in the NADP+-protected enzymes. The data suggest that the integrity of at least two arginyl residues are requested for maximal activity of ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase: one residue being located near the NADP+-binding site, the other presumably situated in the ferredoxin-binding domain.", "contents": "Modification of arginyl residues in ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase from spinach leaves. Reaction of spinach leaves ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase (NADPH:ferredoxin oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.7.1) with alpha-dicarbonyl compounds results in a biphasic loss of activity. The rapid phase yields modified enzyme with about 30% of the original activity, but no change in the Km for NADPH. Only partial protection against inactivation is provided by NADP+, NADPH and their analogs, whereas ferredoxin affords complete protection. The reductase inactivated to 30% of original activity shows a loss of about two arginyl residues, whereas only one residue is lost in the NADP+-protected enzymes. The data suggest that the integrity of at least two arginyl residues are requested for maximal activity of ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase: one residue being located near the NADP+-binding site, the other presumably situated in the ferredoxin-binding domain.", "PMID": 444539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6760", "title": "Isolation and characterization of glycolic acid oxidase from human liver.", "content": "Glycolic acid oxidase has been isolated from human liver and purified over 3000-fold to a specific activity of 123 U/mg protein by a 5-step procedure. The preparation gave a single protein band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, required flavin mononucleotide for catalytic activity, had a pH optimum between 8.2-8.8 depending on the substrate, and had a molecular weight of 105 000. The enzyme has a broad specificity towards alpha-hydroxy acids. Glycolate (Km = 3.3 . 10(-4) M) was the most effective substrate. The enzyme was stable for several months when stored as an (NH4)2SO4 precipitate or in 15% glycerol. Since glycolate inhibits the oxidation of glyoxylate to oxalate by glycolic acid oxidase, it is suggested that glycolic acid oxidase contributes to the synthesis of oxalate in vivo when the glyoxylate concentration is high and the glycolate concentration is low.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of glycolic acid oxidase from human liver. Glycolic acid oxidase has been isolated from human liver and purified over 3000-fold to a specific activity of 123 U/mg protein by a 5-step procedure. The preparation gave a single protein band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, required flavin mononucleotide for catalytic activity, had a pH optimum between 8.2-8.8 depending on the substrate, and had a molecular weight of 105 000. The enzyme has a broad specificity towards alpha-hydroxy acids. Glycolate (Km = 3.3 . 10(-4) M) was the most effective substrate. The enzyme was stable for several months when stored as an (NH4)2SO4 precipitate or in 15% glycerol. Since glycolate inhibits the oxidation of glyoxylate to oxalate by glycolic acid oxidase, it is suggested that glycolic acid oxidase contributes to the synthesis of oxalate in vivo when the glyoxylate concentration is high and the glycolate concentration is low.", "PMID": 444540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6761", "title": "Synthesis and degradation of xanthine dehydrogenase in chick liver. In vivo and in vitro studies.", "content": "The present study describes the (xanthine:NAD+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.2.1.37) synthesis and degradation of chick liver xanthine dehydrogenase in vivo and in organ cultures. The results indicate that control of xanthine dehydrogenase activity is mediated by changes in the rate of enzyme synthesis, but that degradation rates are unaffected. The results also suggest that xanthine dehydrogenase synthesis occurs through a previously unreported intermediate. Detected in cultures of liver tissue, this intermediate apparently is not converted into an active enzyme. A model of synthesis and degradation for xanthine dehydrogenase proposes that the synthesis of the enzyme is proportional to messenger RNA and includes an inactive enzyme precursor and a second inactive intermediate prior to degradation. Integrated mathematical solutions describing the concentration of intermediates as a function of time can be found explicitly for simple models. The appendix to this paper extrapolates solutions for one-, two- and three-step models to generate a mathematical solution for an 'n'-step model containing 'n' intermediates. The rate constants in the solutions can be found experimentally.", "contents": "Synthesis and degradation of xanthine dehydrogenase in chick liver. In vivo and in vitro studies. The present study describes the (xanthine:NAD+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.2.1.37) synthesis and degradation of chick liver xanthine dehydrogenase in vivo and in organ cultures. The results indicate that control of xanthine dehydrogenase activity is mediated by changes in the rate of enzyme synthesis, but that degradation rates are unaffected. The results also suggest that xanthine dehydrogenase synthesis occurs through a previously unreported intermediate. Detected in cultures of liver tissue, this intermediate apparently is not converted into an active enzyme. A model of synthesis and degradation for xanthine dehydrogenase proposes that the synthesis of the enzyme is proportional to messenger RNA and includes an inactive enzyme precursor and a second inactive intermediate prior to degradation. Integrated mathematical solutions describing the concentration of intermediates as a function of time can be found explicitly for simple models. The appendix to this paper extrapolates solutions for one-, two- and three-step models to generate a mathematical solution for an 'n'-step model containing 'n' intermediates. The rate constants in the solutions can be found experimentally.", "PMID": 444541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6762", "title": "Phosphorylase kinase from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.", "content": "Phosphorylase kinase from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes was investigated in a gel filtered crude preparation (17,000 x g supernatant). It was found to exist in two forms, one (the phosphorylated form) more active than the other (the dephosphorylated form). Interconversion between the two forms was carried out by a cyclic AMP dependent protein kinase and phosphoprotein phosphatase, respectively. The ratio of activity measured at pH 8.0 and 6.0 was 0.36 for the non-activated and 0.83 for the activated form, which is in contrast to the behaviour of phosphorylase kinase from muscle. Km app for the substrate phosphorylase b was 650 U/ml and 85 U/ml for the non-activated and activated form, respectively, whereas Km app for ATP was 0.03 mM and identical for the two forms. The non-activated form of phosphorylase kinase was activated by Ca2+ in the range 10(-7)--5 . 10(-6) M, which may have physiological importance, whereas the activated form was insensitive to variations in Ca2+ concentration between 10(-9) and 10(-3) M.", "contents": "Phosphorylase kinase from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Phosphorylase kinase from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes was investigated in a gel filtered crude preparation (17,000 x g supernatant). It was found to exist in two forms, one (the phosphorylated form) more active than the other (the dephosphorylated form). Interconversion between the two forms was carried out by a cyclic AMP dependent protein kinase and phosphoprotein phosphatase, respectively. The ratio of activity measured at pH 8.0 and 6.0 was 0.36 for the non-activated and 0.83 for the activated form, which is in contrast to the behaviour of phosphorylase kinase from muscle. Km app for the substrate phosphorylase b was 650 U/ml and 85 U/ml for the non-activated and activated form, respectively, whereas Km app for ATP was 0.03 mM and identical for the two forms. The non-activated form of phosphorylase kinase was activated by Ca2+ in the range 10(-7)--5 . 10(-6) M, which may have physiological importance, whereas the activated form was insensitive to variations in Ca2+ concentration between 10(-9) and 10(-3) M.", "PMID": 444542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6763", "title": "Role of cellular redox state and glutathione in adenylate cyclase activity in rat adipocytes.", "content": "Adenylate cyclase in rat adipocyte membranes was inactivated as a result of treatment with sulfhydryl oxidants or with p-chloromercuribenzoate as well as by S-alkylating agents. The inhibition of the basal and isoproterenol- or glucagon-stimulated enzyme activity by the oxidants or the mercurial could be reversed by adding thiols to the isolated membranes. The activity of the enzyme paralleled the cellular glutathione (GSH) content. Lowering of intracellular glutathione by incubating the cells with specific reactants resulted in the inhibition of both basal and hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in the isolated membranes. Activity could be partly restored by supplying glucose to the incubation medium of intact cells. The fluoride-stimulated adenylate cyclase was also inhibited by the oxidants or the sulfhydryl inhibitors. The results suggest that adenylate cyclase may be partly regulated by oxidation-reduction. Thus, a direct relationship between both basal and hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity and the cellular redox potential, determined by the cellular level of reduced glutathione, may be ascribed to the protection of the catalytic -SH groups of the enzyme from oxidative or peroxidative reactions and maintenance of the redox optimum for the reaction.", "contents": "Role of cellular redox state and glutathione in adenylate cyclase activity in rat adipocytes. Adenylate cyclase in rat adipocyte membranes was inactivated as a result of treatment with sulfhydryl oxidants or with p-chloromercuribenzoate as well as by S-alkylating agents. The inhibition of the basal and isoproterenol- or glucagon-stimulated enzyme activity by the oxidants or the mercurial could be reversed by adding thiols to the isolated membranes. The activity of the enzyme paralleled the cellular glutathione (GSH) content. Lowering of intracellular glutathione by incubating the cells with specific reactants resulted in the inhibition of both basal and hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in the isolated membranes. Activity could be partly restored by supplying glucose to the incubation medium of intact cells. The fluoride-stimulated adenylate cyclase was also inhibited by the oxidants or the sulfhydryl inhibitors. The results suggest that adenylate cyclase may be partly regulated by oxidation-reduction. Thus, a direct relationship between both basal and hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity and the cellular redox potential, determined by the cellular level of reduced glutathione, may be ascribed to the protection of the catalytic -SH groups of the enzyme from oxidative or peroxidative reactions and maintenance of the redox optimum for the reaction.", "PMID": 444543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6764", "title": "Purification and properties of 2'-nucleotidase from mammalian brain.", "content": "A nucleotidase specific for 2'-nucleotides was localized in both the soluble and the synaptosomal fractions of rat brain. The enzyme was partially purified from the soluble fraction of bovine brain. The s20,w was 4.9 S with an estimated molecular weight of about 70 000. The optimum pH was 8.0 and Km value for 2'-AMP was 5.5 . 10(-4) M. The substrate and inhibitor specificities of the enzyme were examined. The nucleotidase has an absolute requirement for Mg2+ but neither Fe3+ nor Ca2+ acted as replacement ions. In fact, Mn2+ and Ca2+ inhibited the Mg2+-dependent 2'-nucleotidase.", "contents": "Purification and properties of 2'-nucleotidase from mammalian brain. A nucleotidase specific for 2'-nucleotides was localized in both the soluble and the synaptosomal fractions of rat brain. The enzyme was partially purified from the soluble fraction of bovine brain. The s20,w was 4.9 S with an estimated molecular weight of about 70 000. The optimum pH was 8.0 and Km value for 2'-AMP was 5.5 . 10(-4) M. The substrate and inhibitor specificities of the enzyme were examined. The nucleotidase has an absolute requirement for Mg2+ but neither Fe3+ nor Ca2+ acted as replacement ions. In fact, Mn2+ and Ca2+ inhibited the Mg2+-dependent 2'-nucleotidase.", "PMID": 444544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6765", "title": "Characterization of neuraminidase activity of cultured human fibroblasts.", "content": "Investigations have been carried out to establish the enzymatic properties and specificities of the neuraminidase of cultured human fibroblasts. Homogenates of these cells cleaved the actylated derivative of neuraminic acid from fetuin, N-acetylneuraminyllactose and 2-(3' methoxyphenyl)-N-acetyl-alpha-neuraminic acid. Maximum activity occurred between pH 4.2 and 4.6 in sodium acetate buffer. The Km values were 3.6 . 10(-4) M, 3.0 . 10(-3) M and 1.1 . 10(-3) M, respectively, against fetuin, N-acetylneuraminyllactose and 2-(3'methoxyphenyl)-N-acetyl-alpha-neuraminic acid. Against the first two substrates, the rate of hydrolysis fell below the expected value as the cell homogenate was diluted with water or 10 mM NaCl. Dilution with 8 mg/ml bovine serum albumin prevented the deviation and yielded the expected linear decrease. After the first 2-h incubation, the rate of hydrolysis decreased from the initial linear rate. The enzyme(s) was partially or completely inactivated by sonication at 20 kHz, freeze-thaw treatment, incubation at 52 degrees C or storage for 48 h at -70 degrees C. Suspension of the fibroblasts in water for 10 min at room temperature, followed by homogenization with a tissue grinder, yielded preparations that were suitable for the assay of the neuraminidase activity.", "contents": "Characterization of neuraminidase activity of cultured human fibroblasts. Investigations have been carried out to establish the enzymatic properties and specificities of the neuraminidase of cultured human fibroblasts. Homogenates of these cells cleaved the actylated derivative of neuraminic acid from fetuin, N-acetylneuraminyllactose and 2-(3' methoxyphenyl)-N-acetyl-alpha-neuraminic acid. Maximum activity occurred between pH 4.2 and 4.6 in sodium acetate buffer. The Km values were 3.6 . 10(-4) M, 3.0 . 10(-3) M and 1.1 . 10(-3) M, respectively, against fetuin, N-acetylneuraminyllactose and 2-(3'methoxyphenyl)-N-acetyl-alpha-neuraminic acid. Against the first two substrates, the rate of hydrolysis fell below the expected value as the cell homogenate was diluted with water or 10 mM NaCl. Dilution with 8 mg/ml bovine serum albumin prevented the deviation and yielded the expected linear decrease. After the first 2-h incubation, the rate of hydrolysis decreased from the initial linear rate. The enzyme(s) was partially or completely inactivated by sonication at 20 kHz, freeze-thaw treatment, incubation at 52 degrees C or storage for 48 h at -70 degrees C. Suspension of the fibroblasts in water for 10 min at room temperature, followed by homogenization with a tissue grinder, yielded preparations that were suitable for the assay of the neuraminidase activity.", "PMID": 444545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6766", "title": "The reversible thiol-disulphide exchange of trypsin and chymotrypsinogen with a tumour-derived inhibitor. Kinetic data obtained with fluorescein-labelled polymeric collagen fibrils and casein as substrates.", "content": "Ehrlich ascites cells contain a cytoplasmic inhibitor of both trypsin and the granule neutral protease and possess a reactive thiol which interacts with an important disulphide bond in trypsin, resulting in the formation of the trypsin-inhibitor complex. When a fixed quantity of trypsin was completely inhibited by addition of the cytoplasmic inhibitor, the trypsin could be re-activated by the addition of either trasylol-trypsin or chymotrypsinogen. Since trasyloltrypsin, chymotrypsinogen (and any derived chymotrypsin) has no ability to solubilise fluorescein-labelled peptides from the substrate, the appearance of trypsin activity was probably due to a non-enzymic exchange reaction, in which these inactive forms displaced trypsin from the trypsin-inhibitor complex. Kinetic data suggest that this displacement was a time-dependent equilibrium reaction controlled by the relative concentration of the reacting species.", "contents": "The reversible thiol-disulphide exchange of trypsin and chymotrypsinogen with a tumour-derived inhibitor. Kinetic data obtained with fluorescein-labelled polymeric collagen fibrils and casein as substrates. Ehrlich ascites cells contain a cytoplasmic inhibitor of both trypsin and the granule neutral protease and possess a reactive thiol which interacts with an important disulphide bond in trypsin, resulting in the formation of the trypsin-inhibitor complex. When a fixed quantity of trypsin was completely inhibited by addition of the cytoplasmic inhibitor, the trypsin could be re-activated by the addition of either trasylol-trypsin or chymotrypsinogen. Since trasyloltrypsin, chymotrypsinogen (and any derived chymotrypsin) has no ability to solubilise fluorescein-labelled peptides from the substrate, the appearance of trypsin activity was probably due to a non-enzymic exchange reaction, in which these inactive forms displaced trypsin from the trypsin-inhibitor complex. Kinetic data suggest that this displacement was a time-dependent equilibrium reaction controlled by the relative concentration of the reacting species.", "PMID": 444546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6767", "title": "Regulatory properties of rat heart AMP deaminase.", "content": "The kinetic and regulatory properties of purified rat heart AMP deaminase were investigated. In the presence of 100 mM KCl, the enzyme exhibited a slightly sigmoid-shaped plot of reaction rate, vs. substrate concentration, which shifted to a more hyperbolic form when ATP, ADP or GTP were added. ATP was the most potent activator of the enzyme, whereas GTP at low (less than 0.25 mM) concentrations increased the enzyme activity. The activation effect was negligible at higher concentrations of GTP. The calculated value of K0.5 of approx. 3 mM for unactivated enzyme decrased to approx. 0.6 mM and 1.1 mM when 0.5 mM ATP or 1.5 mM ADP were present in the incubation mixture, respectively. The theoretical model (Monod, J., Wyman, J. and Changeux, J.P. (1965) J. Mol. Biol. 12, 88-118) gave a partial explanation of these results.", "contents": "Regulatory properties of rat heart AMP deaminase. The kinetic and regulatory properties of purified rat heart AMP deaminase were investigated. In the presence of 100 mM KCl, the enzyme exhibited a slightly sigmoid-shaped plot of reaction rate, vs. substrate concentration, which shifted to a more hyperbolic form when ATP, ADP or GTP were added. ATP was the most potent activator of the enzyme, whereas GTP at low (less than 0.25 mM) concentrations increased the enzyme activity. The activation effect was negligible at higher concentrations of GTP. The calculated value of K0.5 of approx. 3 mM for unactivated enzyme decrased to approx. 0.6 mM and 1.1 mM when 0.5 mM ATP or 1.5 mM ADP were present in the incubation mixture, respectively. The theoretical model (Monod, J., Wyman, J. and Changeux, J.P. (1965) J. Mol. Biol. 12, 88-118) gave a partial explanation of these results.", "PMID": 444547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6768", "title": "Evidence for the use of a pool of the free arachidonic acid in rat cerebral cortex tissue for prostaglandin F2alpha synthesis in vitro.", "content": "To determine if the arachidonic acid which is released post-mortem in rat cerebral cortex is directly available for the in vitro synthesis of prostaglandin F2 alpha, cerebral cortex slices or homogenates were incubated in the presence of [2H8]arachidonic acid. The deuterium to protium ratios in the prostaglandin F2 alpha were compared to those in the free arachidonic acid and other lipids of the tissue after 5 and 60 min of incubation. In the slice, the prostaglandin F2 alpha reached maximum labelling before any of the lipids examined except for a pool of rapidly labelled free arachidonic acid located at the damaged surfaces of the tissue. The prostaglandin F2 alpha recovered in the medium after 60 min of incubation had a deuterium to protium ratio twice that of the prostaglandin F2 alpha found in the tissue. Norepinephrine doubled the labelling of the prostaglandin produced by the slice. The labelling of the prostaglandin F2 alpha in homogenates was 10 times higher than in tissue slices and the deuterium to protium ratio of the total free arachidonic acid was similar to that of prostaglandin F2 alpha. The results indicate that exogenous and endogenous arachidonic acid do not mix appreciably in the intact slice and that the prostaglandin synthetase is present on the damaged surface as well as the intact interior of the slice.", "contents": "Evidence for the use of a pool of the free arachidonic acid in rat cerebral cortex tissue for prostaglandin F2alpha synthesis in vitro. To determine if the arachidonic acid which is released post-mortem in rat cerebral cortex is directly available for the in vitro synthesis of prostaglandin F2 alpha, cerebral cortex slices or homogenates were incubated in the presence of [2H8]arachidonic acid. The deuterium to protium ratios in the prostaglandin F2 alpha were compared to those in the free arachidonic acid and other lipids of the tissue after 5 and 60 min of incubation. In the slice, the prostaglandin F2 alpha reached maximum labelling before any of the lipids examined except for a pool of rapidly labelled free arachidonic acid located at the damaged surfaces of the tissue. The prostaglandin F2 alpha recovered in the medium after 60 min of incubation had a deuterium to protium ratio twice that of the prostaglandin F2 alpha found in the tissue. Norepinephrine doubled the labelling of the prostaglandin produced by the slice. The labelling of the prostaglandin F2 alpha in homogenates was 10 times higher than in tissue slices and the deuterium to protium ratio of the total free arachidonic acid was similar to that of prostaglandin F2 alpha. The results indicate that exogenous and endogenous arachidonic acid do not mix appreciably in the intact slice and that the prostaglandin synthetase is present on the damaged surface as well as the intact interior of the slice.", "PMID": 444548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6769", "title": "beta-Oxidation of the coenzyme A esters of elaidic, oleic, and stearic acids and their full-cycle intermediates by rat heart mitochondria.", "content": "beta-Oxidation rates for the CoA esters of elaidic, oleic and stearic acids and their full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates and for the carnitine esters of oleic and elaidic acids were compared over a wide range of substrate and albumin concentrations in rat heart mitochondria. The esters of elaidic acid were oxidized at about half the rate of the oleic acid esters, while stearoyl-CoA was oxidized equally as rapid as oleoyl-CoA. The full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates of elaidoyl-CoA (trans-16 : 1 delta 7, -14 : 1 delta 5, and -12 : 1 delta 3) were found to be oxidized at rates nearly equal to those for the corresponding intermediates of oleoyl-CoA. Therefore, after the first cycle of beta-oxidation, oleoyl-CoA and elaidoyl-CoA are oxidized at nearly equal rates. The activity of fatty acyl-CoA dehydrogenase was higher with elaidoyl-CoA and its full-cycle intermediates as substrates than with the corresponding cisisomers. It was concluded that the slower oxidation rate of elaidic acid is not due to slower oxidation of any of its full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates, nor to slower activity of fatty acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, nor to outer mitochondrial carnitine acyltransferase. Possible explanations to account for the slower oxidation rate of elaidic acid are discussed.", "contents": "beta-Oxidation of the coenzyme A esters of elaidic, oleic, and stearic acids and their full-cycle intermediates by rat heart mitochondria. beta-Oxidation rates for the CoA esters of elaidic, oleic and stearic acids and their full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates and for the carnitine esters of oleic and elaidic acids were compared over a wide range of substrate and albumin concentrations in rat heart mitochondria. The esters of elaidic acid were oxidized at about half the rate of the oleic acid esters, while stearoyl-CoA was oxidized equally as rapid as oleoyl-CoA. The full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates of elaidoyl-CoA (trans-16 : 1 delta 7, -14 : 1 delta 5, and -12 : 1 delta 3) were found to be oxidized at rates nearly equal to those for the corresponding intermediates of oleoyl-CoA. Therefore, after the first cycle of beta-oxidation, oleoyl-CoA and elaidoyl-CoA are oxidized at nearly equal rates. The activity of fatty acyl-CoA dehydrogenase was higher with elaidoyl-CoA and its full-cycle intermediates as substrates than with the corresponding cisisomers. It was concluded that the slower oxidation rate of elaidic acid is not due to slower oxidation of any of its full-cycle beta-oxidation intermediates, nor to slower activity of fatty acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, nor to outer mitochondrial carnitine acyltransferase. Possible explanations to account for the slower oxidation rate of elaidic acid are discussed.", "PMID": 444549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6770", "title": "Purified phospholipase A2 from sheep erythrocyte membrane. Preferential hydrolysis according to polar groups and 2-acyl chains.", "content": "Hydrolysis of natural phospholipids by pure erythrocyte membrane phospholipase A2 was compared to the reaction catalyzed by the soluble pancreatic enzyme. Fatty acids liberated during both types of reaction were quantitatively analyzed by gas liquid chromatography. We confirm for the pancreatic enzyme lack of specificity with respect to the sn-2 acyl chain of the phospholipids and preference for negatively charged polar head groups. Conversely, the membranous enzyme preferentially attacks uncharged phospholipids and within one class of phospholipid preferentially splits long chain unsaturated fatty acids in the sn-2 position. The significance of such differences between pancreatic and sheep erythrocyte enzyme is discussed in relation to the possible physiological role of the latter enzyme.", "contents": "Purified phospholipase A2 from sheep erythrocyte membrane. Preferential hydrolysis according to polar groups and 2-acyl chains. Hydrolysis of natural phospholipids by pure erythrocyte membrane phospholipase A2 was compared to the reaction catalyzed by the soluble pancreatic enzyme. Fatty acids liberated during both types of reaction were quantitatively analyzed by gas liquid chromatography. We confirm for the pancreatic enzyme lack of specificity with respect to the sn-2 acyl chain of the phospholipids and preference for negatively charged polar head groups. Conversely, the membranous enzyme preferentially attacks uncharged phospholipids and within one class of phospholipid preferentially splits long chain unsaturated fatty acids in the sn-2 position. The significance of such differences between pancreatic and sheep erythrocyte enzyme is discussed in relation to the possible physiological role of the latter enzyme.", "PMID": 444550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6771", "title": "Cell line A549 as a model of the type II pneumocyte. Phospholipid biosynthesis from native and organometallic precursors.", "content": "1. A549 is a continuous cell line derived from a human pulmonary adenocarcinoma. To evaluate the suitability of this cell line as a model of the type II pneumocyte, the morphology and the composition and biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine was examined under control culture conditions and during fatty acid supplementation with palmitate. A number of the ultrastructural characteristics of A549 cells were similar to the in situ type II pneumocyte and were unchanged by fatty acid supplementation. The phospholipid composition of the cell line was similar to that of primary isolates of type II cells in total phosphatidylcholine, disaturated phosphatidylcholine, and palmitate and saturated fatty acid. Phospholipid biosynthetic results were also consistent with those reported for isolated type II cell models. These included: (i) the pattern of incorporation of choline, palmitate and acetate into phosphatidylcholines; (ii) the effect of palmitate supplementation, which resulted in stimulation of the rate of phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis and in increased percentage of labeled precursor in disaturated phosphatidylcholine; and (iii) the preferential synthesis from labeled choline and palmitate of a highly disaturated phosphatidylcholine in short-term incubations. 2. The incorporation of an organometallic palmitate analog, 12,12-dimethyl-12-stannahexadecanoate, into A549 cell lipids was examined and compared to that of palmitate. These date demonstrate for the first time the incorporation of an organometallic substrate into the phospholipids of a mammalian cell line. This analog substitutes selectively for the native fatty acid at a rate similar to that of the native fatty acid with no cytotoxic effects. The organotin probe, coupled with spectroscopic detection and electron microscopy, may be useful for examining ultrastructural aspects of phospholipid synthesis, translocation and assembly.", "contents": "Cell line A549 as a model of the type II pneumocyte. Phospholipid biosynthesis from native and organometallic precursors. 1. A549 is a continuous cell line derived from a human pulmonary adenocarcinoma. To evaluate the suitability of this cell line as a model of the type II pneumocyte, the morphology and the composition and biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine was examined under control culture conditions and during fatty acid supplementation with palmitate. A number of the ultrastructural characteristics of A549 cells were similar to the in situ type II pneumocyte and were unchanged by fatty acid supplementation. The phospholipid composition of the cell line was similar to that of primary isolates of type II cells in total phosphatidylcholine, disaturated phosphatidylcholine, and palmitate and saturated fatty acid. Phospholipid biosynthetic results were also consistent with those reported for isolated type II cell models. These included: (i) the pattern of incorporation of choline, palmitate and acetate into phosphatidylcholines; (ii) the effect of palmitate supplementation, which resulted in stimulation of the rate of phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis and in increased percentage of labeled precursor in disaturated phosphatidylcholine; and (iii) the preferential synthesis from labeled choline and palmitate of a highly disaturated phosphatidylcholine in short-term incubations. 2. The incorporation of an organometallic palmitate analog, 12,12-dimethyl-12-stannahexadecanoate, into A549 cell lipids was examined and compared to that of palmitate. These date demonstrate for the first time the incorporation of an organometallic substrate into the phospholipids of a mammalian cell line. This analog substitutes selectively for the native fatty acid at a rate similar to that of the native fatty acid with no cytotoxic effects. The organotin probe, coupled with spectroscopic detection and electron microscopy, may be useful for examining ultrastructural aspects of phospholipid synthesis, translocation and assembly.", "PMID": 444551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6772", "title": "Isolation and identification of polyprenols from bovine thyroid gland.", "content": "The presence of polyprenols in bovine thyroid was demonstrated. After preparative isolation, the structure was elucidated by chemical and spectroscopic techniques. The main polyprenol homologue has a molecular weight of 1380 corresponding to the presence of 20 isoprene units. From NMR studies it appears that 18 units have the cis configuration and that the 2 others are trans isoprene units. The dolichol content amounts to 0.2 mg/g wet weight. About 5% was found in the esterified form.", "contents": "Isolation and identification of polyprenols from bovine thyroid gland. The presence of polyprenols in bovine thyroid was demonstrated. After preparative isolation, the structure was elucidated by chemical and spectroscopic techniques. The main polyprenol homologue has a molecular weight of 1380 corresponding to the presence of 20 isoprene units. From NMR studies it appears that 18 units have the cis configuration and that the 2 others are trans isoprene units. The dolichol content amounts to 0.2 mg/g wet weight. About 5% was found in the esterified form.", "PMID": 444552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6773", "title": "The lipids of the Golgi apparatus subfractions from rat liver.", "content": "Golgi apparatus were isolated from untreated rat liver and separated into three fractions. One consisted mainly of vesicles, a second of tubular particles (dictyosomes) and the third was a mixed fraction. Large differences between these fractions could be seen in the electron microscope and by enzyme analysis. The total lipid content of the vesicles was 3.5-times greater than that of the dictyosomes and the neutral lipid value was 7-times greater. The ratio of phospholipids to protein was approximately the same in the three fractions. However, the phospholipid patterns differed between the vesicle and dictyosome fractions.", "contents": "The lipids of the Golgi apparatus subfractions from rat liver. Golgi apparatus were isolated from untreated rat liver and separated into three fractions. One consisted mainly of vesicles, a second of tubular particles (dictyosomes) and the third was a mixed fraction. Large differences between these fractions could be seen in the electron microscope and by enzyme analysis. The total lipid content of the vesicles was 3.5-times greater than that of the dictyosomes and the neutral lipid value was 7-times greater. The ratio of phospholipids to protein was approximately the same in the three fractions. However, the phospholipid patterns differed between the vesicle and dictyosome fractions.", "PMID": 444553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6774", "title": "Regulation of body cholesterol pools. Influence of cholesterol input and excretion in an animal model.", "content": "Biliary cholesterol excretion closely parallels lecithin excretion in the rat and may be increased by feeding an excess of choline and decreased by choline deficiency. To determine the relative influence of cholesterol input and excretion on whole body cholesterol metabolism, we have measured by compartmental analysis rates of cholesterol transport and pool sizes when both input and choline-mediated biliary excretion were increased and diminished. In choline-deficient animals with impaired excretion, plasma cholesterol was reduced. However, in deficient animals more cholesterol was transported into the slowly exchanging pool to increase pool size, and, when input was increased (by addition of cholesterol to diet), the slowly exchanging pool was even more markedly enlarged. In contrast, when excess choline was fed, plasma cholesterol was increased but excretion so exceeded transport into the slowly exchanging pool that pool size was actually reduced. Furthermore, in choline-fed animals with unimpaired excretion, addition of cholesterol to the diet to increase input did not result in pool expansion. Thus, in this model, cholesterol excretion and tissue deposition were reciprocally related, and, regardless of plasma cholesterol concentration and cholesterol input, stores were found to increase only when biliary excretion was impaired.", "contents": "Regulation of body cholesterol pools. Influence of cholesterol input and excretion in an animal model. Biliary cholesterol excretion closely parallels lecithin excretion in the rat and may be increased by feeding an excess of choline and decreased by choline deficiency. To determine the relative influence of cholesterol input and excretion on whole body cholesterol metabolism, we have measured by compartmental analysis rates of cholesterol transport and pool sizes when both input and choline-mediated biliary excretion were increased and diminished. In choline-deficient animals with impaired excretion, plasma cholesterol was reduced. However, in deficient animals more cholesterol was transported into the slowly exchanging pool to increase pool size, and, when input was increased (by addition of cholesterol to diet), the slowly exchanging pool was even more markedly enlarged. In contrast, when excess choline was fed, plasma cholesterol was increased but excretion so exceeded transport into the slowly exchanging pool that pool size was actually reduced. Furthermore, in choline-fed animals with unimpaired excretion, addition of cholesterol to the diet to increase input did not result in pool expansion. Thus, in this model, cholesterol excretion and tissue deposition were reciprocally related, and, regardless of plasma cholesterol concentration and cholesterol input, stores were found to increase only when biliary excretion was impaired.", "PMID": 444554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6775", "title": "Stimulation of cholesterol esterification in hepatic microsomes by lipoproteins from normal and hypercholesterolemic rabbit serum.", "content": "Incubation of plasma lipoproteins with rabbit hepatic microsomes enriched the microsomes with free cholesterol and stimulated cholesterol esterification. The rate of cholesterol esterification correlated well (r = 0.96) with the concentration of microsomal free cholesterol. Lipoproteins from normal and hypercholesterolemic serum varied in their propensity to stimulate cholesterol esterification. Among the normal lipoproteins, low density lipoproteins was more stimulatory than either high density lipoproteins or intermediate density lipoproteins. However, the intermediate density lipoproteins fraction from hypercholesterolemic serum was consistently more stimulatory than any of the normal lipoproteins. The augmentation of cholesterol content, when microsomes were exposed to mixed hyperlipidemic lipoproteins, was proportionately much greater than augementation of phospholipid or protein concentration.", "contents": "Stimulation of cholesterol esterification in hepatic microsomes by lipoproteins from normal and hypercholesterolemic rabbit serum. Incubation of plasma lipoproteins with rabbit hepatic microsomes enriched the microsomes with free cholesterol and stimulated cholesterol esterification. The rate of cholesterol esterification correlated well (r = 0.96) with the concentration of microsomal free cholesterol. Lipoproteins from normal and hypercholesterolemic serum varied in their propensity to stimulate cholesterol esterification. Among the normal lipoproteins, low density lipoproteins was more stimulatory than either high density lipoproteins or intermediate density lipoproteins. However, the intermediate density lipoproteins fraction from hypercholesterolemic serum was consistently more stimulatory than any of the normal lipoproteins. The augmentation of cholesterol content, when microsomes were exposed to mixed hyperlipidemic lipoproteins, was proportionately much greater than augementation of phospholipid or protein concentration.", "PMID": 444555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6776", "title": "The kinetics of binding of serum lipoproteins by immobilized heparin.", "content": "A model arterial system of heparin immobilized on an agarose gel was used to study the amount and kinetics of binding of porcine serum lipoproteins to heparin. Binding occurred to lipoproteins in the density range 1.006 less than d less than 1.062, but there was no binding with high density lipoprotein. A theoretical model of the kinetic experiments was formulated and used to demonstrate that the rate of the binding reaction could be considered instantaneous relative to the rate of transport of lipoproteins. Extrapolation of these results to arterial levels of glycosaminoglycans and lipoprotein indicate that complexes of lipoprotein and the glycosaminoglycans could account for much of the cholesterol entrapment in atherosclerotic lesions.", "contents": "The kinetics of binding of serum lipoproteins by immobilized heparin. A model arterial system of heparin immobilized on an agarose gel was used to study the amount and kinetics of binding of porcine serum lipoproteins to heparin. Binding occurred to lipoproteins in the density range 1.006 less than d less than 1.062, but there was no binding with high density lipoprotein. A theoretical model of the kinetic experiments was formulated and used to demonstrate that the rate of the binding reaction could be considered instantaneous relative to the rate of transport of lipoproteins. Extrapolation of these results to arterial levels of glycosaminoglycans and lipoprotein indicate that complexes of lipoprotein and the glycosaminoglycans could account for much of the cholesterol entrapment in atherosclerotic lesions.", "PMID": 444556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6777", "title": "The effect of cerulenin and exogenous fatty acids on triacylglycerol accumulation in an inositol-deficient yeast, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis.", "content": "Cerulenin inhibits fatty acid synthesis in yeast; supplementation with exogenous fatty acids is required to maintain cell growth. In the presence of cerulenin and exogenous fatty acids inositol-deficient cells accumulate triacylglycerols to almost the same extent as normally grown deficient cells, indicating that increased fatty acid synthesis is not primarily responsible for triacylglycerol accumulation.", "contents": "The effect of cerulenin and exogenous fatty acids on triacylglycerol accumulation in an inositol-deficient yeast, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis. Cerulenin inhibits fatty acid synthesis in yeast; supplementation with exogenous fatty acids is required to maintain cell growth. In the presence of cerulenin and exogenous fatty acids inositol-deficient cells accumulate triacylglycerols to almost the same extent as normally grown deficient cells, indicating that increased fatty acid synthesis is not primarily responsible for triacylglycerol accumulation.", "PMID": 444557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6778", "title": "Stimulation of thiamine diphosphatase activity by ascorbic acid in rat brain microsomes.", "content": "The effect of ascorbic acid on microsomal thiamine diphosphatase activity in rat brain was examined. Ascorbic acid at 0.02--0.1 mM increased the thiamine diphosphatase activity by 20--600% and produced a significant amount of lipid peroxide, which was measured with thiobarbiturate under the same conditions as the enzyme. A lag period of about 10 min was observed in the process of stimulation of enzyme activity by ascorbic acid. The stimulation of enzyme activity and the lipid peroxidation induced by ascorbic acid were blocked by metal-binding compounds (EDTA, alpha,alpha'-dipyridyl, o-phenanthroline) and an antioxidant (N,N'-diphenyl p-phenylenediamine). GSH significantly enhanced the stimulation of enzyme activity and formation of lipid peroxide by 0.02--0.05 mM ascorbic acid. The effect of GSH was due in part to maintenance of the concentration of ascorbic acid in the medium, since GSH could convert dehydroascorbic acid, an oxidized form of ascorbic acid, to ascorbic acid.", "contents": "Stimulation of thiamine diphosphatase activity by ascorbic acid in rat brain microsomes. The effect of ascorbic acid on microsomal thiamine diphosphatase activity in rat brain was examined. Ascorbic acid at 0.02--0.1 mM increased the thiamine diphosphatase activity by 20--600% and produced a significant amount of lipid peroxide, which was measured with thiobarbiturate under the same conditions as the enzyme. A lag period of about 10 min was observed in the process of stimulation of enzyme activity by ascorbic acid. The stimulation of enzyme activity and the lipid peroxidation induced by ascorbic acid were blocked by metal-binding compounds (EDTA, alpha,alpha'-dipyridyl, o-phenanthroline) and an antioxidant (N,N'-diphenyl p-phenylenediamine). GSH significantly enhanced the stimulation of enzyme activity and formation of lipid peroxide by 0.02--0.05 mM ascorbic acid. The effect of GSH was due in part to maintenance of the concentration of ascorbic acid in the medium, since GSH could convert dehydroascorbic acid, an oxidized form of ascorbic acid, to ascorbic acid.", "PMID": 444558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6779", "title": "Proteolytic enzymes in normal and transformed cells.", "content": "Virally transformed cells show an increased production of proteolytic enzymes. These might be involved in transformation-dependent alterations of cell surface glycoproteins. The possibility arises that some of these proteases might be membrane-bound. To investigate this possibility, we have undertaken a comparative study of the reactivity of intact normal and transformed cells with the tritium labelled protease inhibitor diisopropylfluorophosphate, in parallel with fibrinolytic assays. Using these two approaches in concert, it was possible to identify and localize in the transformed cells several proteases which were present in the particulate cell fraction and were probably membrane bound. In particular, a diisopropylfluorophosphate-reactive polypeptide of 62,000 was increased 5--8-fold on transformation. It comigrated with a fibrinolytic activity. Other particle-bound activities were also detected. While diisopropylfluorophosphate-labelling can be useful for detecting proteases inside cells, it does not appear to be specific for surface proteases.", "contents": "Proteolytic enzymes in normal and transformed cells. Virally transformed cells show an increased production of proteolytic enzymes. These might be involved in transformation-dependent alterations of cell surface glycoproteins. The possibility arises that some of these proteases might be membrane-bound. To investigate this possibility, we have undertaken a comparative study of the reactivity of intact normal and transformed cells with the tritium labelled protease inhibitor diisopropylfluorophosphate, in parallel with fibrinolytic assays. Using these two approaches in concert, it was possible to identify and localize in the transformed cells several proteases which were present in the particulate cell fraction and were probably membrane bound. In particular, a diisopropylfluorophosphate-reactive polypeptide of 62,000 was increased 5--8-fold on transformation. It comigrated with a fibrinolytic activity. Other particle-bound activities were also detected. While diisopropylfluorophosphate-labelling can be useful for detecting proteases inside cells, it does not appear to be specific for surface proteases.", "PMID": 444559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6780", "title": "Effect of lectins on endocytosis and secretion of lysosomal enzymes by cultured fibroblasts.", "content": "1. Pretreatment of cultured human skin fibroblasts with convanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin inhibited endocytosis of alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase and increased extracellular accumulation of beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. 2. These effects were dose-dependent, reversible and could be prevented by haptenic carbohydrates, such as methyl alpha-D-mannoside or N-acetylglucosamine. 3. Pretreatment of fibroblasts with di- and monovalent succinylated concanavalin A inhibited alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase endocytosis, but had no effect on extracellular beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase accumulation. 4. Concanavalin A-alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase complexes become internalized via the recognition of the lectin. Complex formation prevents recognition of the phosphorylated carbohydrate on lysosomal enzymes that interacts with cell surface receptors specific for lysosomal enzymes. The inhibitory effect of all lectins tested on lysosomal enzyme endocytosis suggests that the cell surface receptors for lysosomal enzymes interact either directly with lectins or are closely linked to lectin receptors. The effect of polyvalent lectins on extracellular lysosomal enzyme accumulation is ascribed to their alteration of membrane fluidity.", "contents": "Effect of lectins on endocytosis and secretion of lysosomal enzymes by cultured fibroblasts. 1. Pretreatment of cultured human skin fibroblasts with convanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin inhibited endocytosis of alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase and increased extracellular accumulation of beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. 2. These effects were dose-dependent, reversible and could be prevented by haptenic carbohydrates, such as methyl alpha-D-mannoside or N-acetylglucosamine. 3. Pretreatment of fibroblasts with di- and monovalent succinylated concanavalin A inhibited alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase endocytosis, but had no effect on extracellular beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase accumulation. 4. Concanavalin A-alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase complexes become internalized via the recognition of the lectin. Complex formation prevents recognition of the phosphorylated carbohydrate on lysosomal enzymes that interacts with cell surface receptors specific for lysosomal enzymes. The inhibitory effect of all lectins tested on lysosomal enzyme endocytosis suggests that the cell surface receptors for lysosomal enzymes interact either directly with lectins or are closely linked to lectin receptors. The effect of polyvalent lectins on extracellular lysosomal enzyme accumulation is ascribed to their alteration of membrane fluidity.", "PMID": 444560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6781", "title": "Characterization of the sulfated glycosaminoglycan on the surface and in the storage granules of rabbit platelets.", "content": "Rabbit platelets were labeled in vivo with 35S for characterization of platelet sulfated glycosaminoglycan. When rabbit platelets were aggregated by ADP, sulfated proteoglycan was lost from the platelet surface although no release of granule contents occurred. The sulfated proteoglycan contained in the granules of platelets pretreated with ADP was subsequently released by treatment with thrombin. The 35S-labeled proteoglycan from both sources was isolated by gel filtration and the glycosaminoglycan portion of the proteoglycan was characterized as chondroitin 4-sulfate by examining the products of digestion with hyaluronidase, chondroitinase AC and ABC, and chondro-4- and 6-sulfatases; by identification of the hexosamine as N-acetylgalactosamine; by determination of a 1 : 1 : 1 molar ratio of N-acetylgalactosamine, uronic acid and inorganic sulfate; and by cetylpyridinium chloride cellulose chromatography. In these studies, the use of 35S-labeled proteoglycan made possible detection and quantification of much smaller amounts of material than would be possible with unlabeled material. Chondroitin 4-sulfate was the only sulfated glycosaminoglycan identified in the proteoglycan lost from the platelet surface during ADP-induced aggregation and in the proteoglycan released from the granules when the platelets were exposed to thrombin.", "contents": "Characterization of the sulfated glycosaminoglycan on the surface and in the storage granules of rabbit platelets. Rabbit platelets were labeled in vivo with 35S for characterization of platelet sulfated glycosaminoglycan. When rabbit platelets were aggregated by ADP, sulfated proteoglycan was lost from the platelet surface although no release of granule contents occurred. The sulfated proteoglycan contained in the granules of platelets pretreated with ADP was subsequently released by treatment with thrombin. The 35S-labeled proteoglycan from both sources was isolated by gel filtration and the glycosaminoglycan portion of the proteoglycan was characterized as chondroitin 4-sulfate by examining the products of digestion with hyaluronidase, chondroitinase AC and ABC, and chondro-4- and 6-sulfatases; by identification of the hexosamine as N-acetylgalactosamine; by determination of a 1 : 1 : 1 molar ratio of N-acetylgalactosamine, uronic acid and inorganic sulfate; and by cetylpyridinium chloride cellulose chromatography. In these studies, the use of 35S-labeled proteoglycan made possible detection and quantification of much smaller amounts of material than would be possible with unlabeled material. Chondroitin 4-sulfate was the only sulfated glycosaminoglycan identified in the proteoglycan lost from the platelet surface during ADP-induced aggregation and in the proteoglycan released from the granules when the platelets were exposed to thrombin.", "PMID": 444561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6782", "title": "Accumulation of procollagen in the degenerative articular cartilage of dogs with osteoarthritis.", "content": "Collagen metabolism was studied in degenerative articular cartilage of dogs with spontaneous, early onset osteoarthritis. A fraction of collagen which represented about 1.5% of the total was extracted from cartilage samples with dilute phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) containing 0.2% sodium dodecyl sulfate. Agarose gel filtration in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed that extracts of degenerative cartilage had about 24% procollagen whereas extracts of normal samples had only 3%. The isolated procollagen fraction was rechromatographed on agarose columns in the presence of mercaptoethanol. This resulted in the identification of a collagen species which migrated between marker beta and alpha collagen chains. The molecular weight of this collagen was estimated to be 150,000. Based on incorporation of [14C]proline, its ratio of hydroxy[14C]proline to total 14C was 0.32. Procollagen was not found after limited pepsin digestion (pH 3, 4 degrees C, 16 h) of degenerative cartilage samples. Since the total collagen content (microgram hydroxyproline/mg cartilage), hydroxy-[14C]proline/mg cartilage, specific radioactivity of hydroxyproline in the extractable collagen fraction were similar for normal and degenerative cartilage we propose that procollagen accumulated in the degenerative cartilage due to a partial defect in conversion of procollagen to collagen.", "contents": "Accumulation of procollagen in the degenerative articular cartilage of dogs with osteoarthritis. Collagen metabolism was studied in degenerative articular cartilage of dogs with spontaneous, early onset osteoarthritis. A fraction of collagen which represented about 1.5% of the total was extracted from cartilage samples with dilute phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) containing 0.2% sodium dodecyl sulfate. Agarose gel filtration in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed that extracts of degenerative cartilage had about 24% procollagen whereas extracts of normal samples had only 3%. The isolated procollagen fraction was rechromatographed on agarose columns in the presence of mercaptoethanol. This resulted in the identification of a collagen species which migrated between marker beta and alpha collagen chains. The molecular weight of this collagen was estimated to be 150,000. Based on incorporation of [14C]proline, its ratio of hydroxy[14C]proline to total 14C was 0.32. Procollagen was not found after limited pepsin digestion (pH 3, 4 degrees C, 16 h) of degenerative cartilage samples. Since the total collagen content (microgram hydroxyproline/mg cartilage), hydroxy-[14C]proline/mg cartilage, specific radioactivity of hydroxyproline in the extractable collagen fraction were similar for normal and degenerative cartilage we propose that procollagen accumulated in the degenerative cartilage due to a partial defect in conversion of procollagen to collagen.", "PMID": 444563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6783", "title": "Characteristics of the vitamin K-dependent carboxylating system in human placenta.", "content": "Gamma-carboxyglutamic acid, formed during the post-translational vitamin K-dependent carboxylation of glutamic acid residues in polypeptides has been identified not only in coagulation factors II (prothrombin),, VII, IX and X [1--4], but also in several other plasma proteins [3,5,6] and in protein of bone [7,8] and kidney [9]. In rat liver, carboxylation is mediated through an enzyme system located in the microsomal membrane [10]. The enzyme system requires CO2, O2 and the reduced (hydroquinone) form of the vitamin, as well as a suitable substrate [10,11]. Rat liver microsomes also convert vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) to its stable 2,3-epoxide [12]. Several studies suggest a link between carboxylation and the formation of the epoxide [12--14]. In one of these [14], a survey of rat tissues for vitamin K1 epoxidation revealed that, in addition to liver, this activity was also possessed by kidney, bone, spleen and placenta. In preliminary experiments, vitamin K-dependent carboxylating systems have been found in rat and chick kidney [9], in chick bone [15] and in rat spleen and placenta (unpublished observations). In this communication, we describe some of the basic characteristics of the vitamin K-dependent carboxylating system as found in human placental microsomes.", "contents": "Characteristics of the vitamin K-dependent carboxylating system in human placenta. Gamma-carboxyglutamic acid, formed during the post-translational vitamin K-dependent carboxylation of glutamic acid residues in polypeptides has been identified not only in coagulation factors II (prothrombin),, VII, IX and X [1--4], but also in several other plasma proteins [3,5,6] and in protein of bone [7,8] and kidney [9]. In rat liver, carboxylation is mediated through an enzyme system located in the microsomal membrane [10]. The enzyme system requires CO2, O2 and the reduced (hydroquinone) form of the vitamin, as well as a suitable substrate [10,11]. Rat liver microsomes also convert vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) to its stable 2,3-epoxide [12]. Several studies suggest a link between carboxylation and the formation of the epoxide [12--14]. In one of these [14], a survey of rat tissues for vitamin K1 epoxidation revealed that, in addition to liver, this activity was also possessed by kidney, bone, spleen and placenta. In preliminary experiments, vitamin K-dependent carboxylating systems have been found in rat and chick kidney [9], in chick bone [15] and in rat spleen and placenta (unpublished observations). In this communication, we describe some of the basic characteristics of the vitamin K-dependent carboxylating system as found in human placental microsomes.", "PMID": 444564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6784", "title": "Amylase release from rat parotid glands. II. Calcium kinetics.", "content": "The kinetics of 45Ca2+ uptake, efflux, and calcium potentiation of amylase release by slices of rat parotid glands were examined. Pretreatment of the tissue with 11.25 mM 45Ca2+ medium increased the total tissue 45calcium content. Lanthanum (1 mM) decreased tissue uptake, blocked the slow components of exchange and appeared to inhibit transcellular calcium movement. Neither dibutyryl cyclic AMP nor caffeine caused consistently significant effects on 45Ca2+ kinetics, or total 45calcium content. Carbamylcholine increased the initial rate of 45Ca2+ uptake, but had no effect on total uptake. Elevation of the extracellular Ca2+ concentration to 11.25 mM during stimulation of amylase release resulted in an initial decrease in the rate of amylase release followed by a potentiation of release which developed slowly, requiring 40--50 min to reach the maximal response. The inability to detect release-related changes in either calcium influx or mobilization, and the lengthy times and high Ca2+ concentrations required to achieve calcium potentiation suggests that calcium does not couple amylase release.", "contents": "Amylase release from rat parotid glands. II. Calcium kinetics. The kinetics of 45Ca2+ uptake, efflux, and calcium potentiation of amylase release by slices of rat parotid glands were examined. Pretreatment of the tissue with 11.25 mM 45Ca2+ medium increased the total tissue 45calcium content. Lanthanum (1 mM) decreased tissue uptake, blocked the slow components of exchange and appeared to inhibit transcellular calcium movement. Neither dibutyryl cyclic AMP nor caffeine caused consistently significant effects on 45Ca2+ kinetics, or total 45calcium content. Carbamylcholine increased the initial rate of 45Ca2+ uptake, but had no effect on total uptake. Elevation of the extracellular Ca2+ concentration to 11.25 mM during stimulation of amylase release resulted in an initial decrease in the rate of amylase release followed by a potentiation of release which developed slowly, requiring 40--50 min to reach the maximal response. The inability to detect release-related changes in either calcium influx or mobilization, and the lengthy times and high Ca2+ concentrations required to achieve calcium potentiation suggests that calcium does not couple amylase release.", "PMID": 444565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6785", "title": "In vitro metabolism of selenite in sheep blood: factors controlling the distribution of selenium and the labelling of plasma protein.", "content": "Some factors controlling the distribution of Na275SeO3 in sheep blood were studied in vitro. After centrifuging Na275SeO3-incubated blood most of the radioactivity was found in the plasma. The labelling of plasma protein by 75Se was dependent on the presence of erythrocytes. The degree of labelling of plasma protein increased with erythrocyte concentration. When phosphate-buffered saline-washed erythrocytes were suspended in phosphate-buffered saline and incubated with Na275SeO3 the majority of the 75Se was detected in the erythrocytes. On incubating these labelled erythrocytes with unlabelled plasma there was a transfer of radioactivity to the plasma. The calculated activation energy for the labelling of plasma was 107.52 kJ/mol. Albumin was shown not to be a principal acceptor of 75Se from the erythrocytes by ammonium sulphate precipitation of radioactive plasma. Addition of Na2SeO3 to the labelled blood resulted in the transfer of 75Se from plasma to the erythrocytes. Radioactive plasma incubated at 37 degrees C was thermolabile with respect to its 75Se content whereas in whole blood the degree of 75Se binding to plasma protein did not vary suggesting that a recycling of selenium was occurring in blood. From the results presented an in vitro model of selenium metabolism in blood is postulated.", "contents": "In vitro metabolism of selenite in sheep blood: factors controlling the distribution of selenium and the labelling of plasma protein. Some factors controlling the distribution of Na275SeO3 in sheep blood were studied in vitro. After centrifuging Na275SeO3-incubated blood most of the radioactivity was found in the plasma. The labelling of plasma protein by 75Se was dependent on the presence of erythrocytes. The degree of labelling of plasma protein increased with erythrocyte concentration. When phosphate-buffered saline-washed erythrocytes were suspended in phosphate-buffered saline and incubated with Na275SeO3 the majority of the 75Se was detected in the erythrocytes. On incubating these labelled erythrocytes with unlabelled plasma there was a transfer of radioactivity to the plasma. The calculated activation energy for the labelling of plasma was 107.52 kJ/mol. Albumin was shown not to be a principal acceptor of 75Se from the erythrocytes by ammonium sulphate precipitation of radioactive plasma. Addition of Na2SeO3 to the labelled blood resulted in the transfer of 75Se from plasma to the erythrocytes. Radioactive plasma incubated at 37 degrees C was thermolabile with respect to its 75Se content whereas in whole blood the degree of 75Se binding to plasma protein did not vary suggesting that a recycling of selenium was occurring in blood. From the results presented an in vitro model of selenium metabolism in blood is postulated.", "PMID": 444566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6786", "title": "Glucocorticoid receptors in WI-38 fibroblasts: characterization and changes with population doubling in culture.", "content": "A high-affinity dexamethasone binding macromolecule was identified in WI-38 human fetal lung fibroblasts. High specificity of binding for glucocorticoids was shown by competition studies in which binding of dexamethasone was inhibited by cortisol and corticosterone but not by testosterone or 17 beta-estradiol. WI-38 cells exposed to [3H]dexamethasone at 30 degrees C were able to transfer the 3H-labeled steroid-receptor complex to the nuclear materal. A reduction of 30--50% was observed in the number of [3H]dexamethasone-receptor binding sites per cell as well as in the nuclear fraction of the cells as a function of age (passage levels 27 and 54). However, in the same cells no significant changes in affinity of receptor for [3H]dexamethasone as a function of the two passage levels were detected.", "contents": "Glucocorticoid receptors in WI-38 fibroblasts: characterization and changes with population doubling in culture. A high-affinity dexamethasone binding macromolecule was identified in WI-38 human fetal lung fibroblasts. High specificity of binding for glucocorticoids was shown by competition studies in which binding of dexamethasone was inhibited by cortisol and corticosterone but not by testosterone or 17 beta-estradiol. WI-38 cells exposed to [3H]dexamethasone at 30 degrees C were able to transfer the 3H-labeled steroid-receptor complex to the nuclear materal. A reduction of 30--50% was observed in the number of [3H]dexamethasone-receptor binding sites per cell as well as in the nuclear fraction of the cells as a function of age (passage levels 27 and 54). However, in the same cells no significant changes in affinity of receptor for [3H]dexamethasone as a function of the two passage levels were detected.", "PMID": 444567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6787", "title": "Corticosterone binding in AtT-20 pituitary tumor cell cytosol: evidence for one class of binding site for both natural and synthetic glucocorticoids.", "content": "The AtT-20 mouse pituitary cell is an established, cloned cell line which produced adrenocorticotrophic hormone in a glucocorticoid-suppressible manner. A receptor for glucocorticoids was identified in cytosol prepared from these cells using the natural mouse glucocorticoid, corticosterone, as the labeled ligand. The question of whether this binding component is identical to the one detectable using labeled triamcinolone acetonide was addressed by comparing their physicochemical characteristics and by detailed studied of binding specificity using both ligands. The corticosterone and triamcinolone acetonide binding components behaved similarly on sucrose density gradient analysis and DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography. Scatchard analysis with corticosterone detected 30% fewer binding sites than a similar analysis with triamcinolone acetonide, probably because corticosterone binding was of lower affinity (Kd = 8.6 . 10(-9)M vs. 1.4 . 10(-9)M) and hence less stable. The relative glucocorticoid binding affinities of thirteen unlabeled steroids were obtained using either labeled steroid as ligand. Both ligands yielded similar results, suggesting that they both detected a similar binding site. The results suggest that AtT-20 cell cytosol contains a single class of binding site which detects both natural and synthetic glucocorticoids.", "contents": "Corticosterone binding in AtT-20 pituitary tumor cell cytosol: evidence for one class of binding site for both natural and synthetic glucocorticoids. The AtT-20 mouse pituitary cell is an established, cloned cell line which produced adrenocorticotrophic hormone in a glucocorticoid-suppressible manner. A receptor for glucocorticoids was identified in cytosol prepared from these cells using the natural mouse glucocorticoid, corticosterone, as the labeled ligand. The question of whether this binding component is identical to the one detectable using labeled triamcinolone acetonide was addressed by comparing their physicochemical characteristics and by detailed studied of binding specificity using both ligands. The corticosterone and triamcinolone acetonide binding components behaved similarly on sucrose density gradient analysis and DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography. Scatchard analysis with corticosterone detected 30% fewer binding sites than a similar analysis with triamcinolone acetonide, probably because corticosterone binding was of lower affinity (Kd = 8.6 . 10(-9)M vs. 1.4 . 10(-9)M) and hence less stable. The relative glucocorticoid binding affinities of thirteen unlabeled steroids were obtained using either labeled steroid as ligand. Both ligands yielded similar results, suggesting that they both detected a similar binding site. The results suggest that AtT-20 cell cytosol contains a single class of binding site which detects both natural and synthetic glucocorticoids.", "PMID": 444568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6788", "title": "Melanoprotein: absence of a direct melanin-protein relationship in chick embryo melanocytes.", "content": "Short-term synthesis of radioactivity labeled melanin (using DL-[2-14C]tyrosine or 2-[2-14C]thiouracil) by chick retinal pigment tissues in vitro was not influenced by inhibitors of protein synthesis, puromycin and cycloheximide. Co-ordinate synthesis of protein is, therefore, unnecessary for melanin synthesis, and melanoproteins must represent secondary interactions between melanin and protein. Melanin was isolated from chick embryo feather germs by extracting the proteins with hot dodecyl sulfate/mercaptoethanol. Melanin isolated from tissues incubated previously in L-[U-14C]valine medium had no associated radioactivity compared to the radioactivity of melanin prepared from tissues incubated in DL-[2-14C]tyrosine or 2-[2-14C]thiouracil. If melanoproteins exist at all, they are non-covalently bonded associations of melanin and melanosomal proteins.", "contents": "Melanoprotein: absence of a direct melanin-protein relationship in chick embryo melanocytes. Short-term synthesis of radioactivity labeled melanin (using DL-[2-14C]tyrosine or 2-[2-14C]thiouracil) by chick retinal pigment tissues in vitro was not influenced by inhibitors of protein synthesis, puromycin and cycloheximide. Co-ordinate synthesis of protein is, therefore, unnecessary for melanin synthesis, and melanoproteins must represent secondary interactions between melanin and protein. Melanin was isolated from chick embryo feather germs by extracting the proteins with hot dodecyl sulfate/mercaptoethanol. Melanin isolated from tissues incubated previously in L-[U-14C]valine medium had no associated radioactivity compared to the radioactivity of melanin prepared from tissues incubated in DL-[2-14C]tyrosine or 2-[2-14C]thiouracil. If melanoproteins exist at all, they are non-covalently bonded associations of melanin and melanosomal proteins.", "PMID": 444569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6789", "title": "Inhibition of cell-substratum attachment of cultured rat heart cells by protein synthesis inhibitors.", "content": "Addition of cycloheximide to growth medium of neonatal rat heart cell cultures prevented cell-substratum attachment. Even concentrations of cycloheximide which inhibited only 50% of normal protein synthesis prevented some cells from attaching. Cells which required the longest time to attach were not dependent on protein synthesis. The kinetics of cell-substratum adhesion in the presence of various concentrations of cycloheximide supported the hypothesis that repair of damaged cell membranes was required prior to attachment. An alternate hypothesis that protein synthesis was required for substratum attachment either to synthesize new unique proteins or higher concentrations of existing proteins not damaged by enzymes was not supported by experimentally obtained data. If the second hypothesis were true, no cells would have attached when protein synthesis was completely inhibited (greater than 95%) and all cells should have been equally affected by protein synthesis inhibition; such was not the case. Inhibition of mRNA formation by actinomycin D also should have inhibited attachment completely and this was not observed. Since attachment was minimally affected by actinomycin D, protein synthesis on long-lived mRNA was apparently sufficient for cell-substratum adhesion.", "contents": "Inhibition of cell-substratum attachment of cultured rat heart cells by protein synthesis inhibitors. Addition of cycloheximide to growth medium of neonatal rat heart cell cultures prevented cell-substratum attachment. Even concentrations of cycloheximide which inhibited only 50% of normal protein synthesis prevented some cells from attaching. Cells which required the longest time to attach were not dependent on protein synthesis. The kinetics of cell-substratum adhesion in the presence of various concentrations of cycloheximide supported the hypothesis that repair of damaged cell membranes was required prior to attachment. An alternate hypothesis that protein synthesis was required for substratum attachment either to synthesize new unique proteins or higher concentrations of existing proteins not damaged by enzymes was not supported by experimentally obtained data. If the second hypothesis were true, no cells would have attached when protein synthesis was completely inhibited (greater than 95%) and all cells should have been equally affected by protein synthesis inhibition; such was not the case. Inhibition of mRNA formation by actinomycin D also should have inhibited attachment completely and this was not observed. Since attachment was minimally affected by actinomycin D, protein synthesis on long-lived mRNA was apparently sufficient for cell-substratum adhesion.", "PMID": 444570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6790", "title": "2-Acetamidoglucal, a new metabolite isolated from the urine of a patient with sialuria.", "content": "A new metabolite, namely 2-acetamidoglucal, has been found in the urine of a patient with sialuria in addition to the metabolites N-acetylneuraminic acid, N-acetylmannosamine, N-acetylglucosamine and 2-deoxy-2,3-dehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid reported earlier. the structure has been identified by mass spectrometry and 360 MHz proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and verified by synthesis. All accumulated compounds fit into the metabolic pathway for the biosynthesis of CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid. Sialuria is discussed in terms of a failure of regulation of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine 2-epimerase.", "contents": "2-Acetamidoglucal, a new metabolite isolated from the urine of a patient with sialuria. A new metabolite, namely 2-acetamidoglucal, has been found in the urine of a patient with sialuria in addition to the metabolites N-acetylneuraminic acid, N-acetylmannosamine, N-acetylglucosamine and 2-deoxy-2,3-dehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid reported earlier. the structure has been identified by mass spectrometry and 360 MHz proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and verified by synthesis. All accumulated compounds fit into the metabolic pathway for the biosynthesis of CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid. Sialuria is discussed in terms of a failure of regulation of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine 2-epimerase.", "PMID": 444571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6791", "title": "Glucosyltransferase activity in kidney fractions of normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats.", "content": "Glucosyltransferase (UDPglucose: galactosylhydroxylysine-basement membrane glucosyltransferase), an enzyme specifically involved in collagen synthesis, was measured in various kidney fractions of normal, diabetic and underfed rats, using as basis the incorporation of radioactivity into protein during incubation with UDP[U-14C]glucose and alkali-soluble fetal calf-skin collagen. Three criteria of enzyme activity were compared: A, total radioactivity of the washed protein precipitate; B, this figure minus activity incorporated in the absence of the collagen acceptor; and C, radioactivity incorporated into the mixed amino acid fraction, collected by elution with dilute NH4OH from a Dowex 50 resin column after alkaline hydrolysis of the protein. Method A was found satisfactory using whole medulla or isolated glomeruli, since the average proportions of total protein radioactivity recovered in the NH3 fraction were 0.81 and 0.87, respectively, and the deviations were small. There was a larger and variable proportion of nonspecific incorporation using whole cortex. Incubation of a control set of sample without added collagen was found to be unnecessary (Method B). Per mg protein, medulla and glomeruli had more enzyme than did whole cortex. In diabetes, activity was enhanced in the 10,000 X g supernatant fraction of cortex, as previously reported. However, the increase associated with diabetes was even more consistent in the medulla, averaging 3-fold in the 10,000 X g pellet fraction. No increase was found in isolated glomeruli in diabetes. Also, no increase was seen in the kidneys of non-diabetic rats with body weight similar to that of the diabetics.", "contents": "Glucosyltransferase activity in kidney fractions of normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Glucosyltransferase (UDPglucose: galactosylhydroxylysine-basement membrane glucosyltransferase), an enzyme specifically involved in collagen synthesis, was measured in various kidney fractions of normal, diabetic and underfed rats, using as basis the incorporation of radioactivity into protein during incubation with UDP[U-14C]glucose and alkali-soluble fetal calf-skin collagen. Three criteria of enzyme activity were compared: A, total radioactivity of the washed protein precipitate; B, this figure minus activity incorporated in the absence of the collagen acceptor; and C, radioactivity incorporated into the mixed amino acid fraction, collected by elution with dilute NH4OH from a Dowex 50 resin column after alkaline hydrolysis of the protein. Method A was found satisfactory using whole medulla or isolated glomeruli, since the average proportions of total protein radioactivity recovered in the NH3 fraction were 0.81 and 0.87, respectively, and the deviations were small. There was a larger and variable proportion of nonspecific incorporation using whole cortex. Incubation of a control set of sample without added collagen was found to be unnecessary (Method B). Per mg protein, medulla and glomeruli had more enzyme than did whole cortex. In diabetes, activity was enhanced in the 10,000 X g supernatant fraction of cortex, as previously reported. However, the increase associated with diabetes was even more consistent in the medulla, averaging 3-fold in the 10,000 X g pellet fraction. No increase was found in isolated glomeruli in diabetes. Also, no increase was seen in the kidneys of non-diabetic rats with body weight similar to that of the diabetics.", "PMID": 444572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6792", "title": "A comparison of the activities of aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase in liver microsomes from mice of different strains during prolonged 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene administration.", "content": "The content and activity of the components of liver microsomal aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase system change biphasically during long-term 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene administration of C57BL/6 mice as well as to (C57BL/6 X DBA/2)F1 hybrids. The first activity peak (4--14 days) is associated with the induction of aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase by 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene; the second peak (70--84 days) is related to noninductive mechanism. In DBA/2 mice, the second peak is absent while the slight increase in aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase activity observed on days 14--28 indicates the aberrant inductive capacity of 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene under its prolonged administration. It is suggested that the weak sensitivity to the blastogenesis caused by 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene observed in C57BL/6 mice and in (C57BL/6 X DBA/2)F1 hybrids is due to the high level of liver aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase activity at the time of tumor appearance.", "contents": "A comparison of the activities of aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase in liver microsomes from mice of different strains during prolonged 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene administration. The content and activity of the components of liver microsomal aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase system change biphasically during long-term 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene administration of C57BL/6 mice as well as to (C57BL/6 X DBA/2)F1 hybrids. The first activity peak (4--14 days) is associated with the induction of aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase by 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene; the second peak (70--84 days) is related to noninductive mechanism. In DBA/2 mice, the second peak is absent while the slight increase in aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase activity observed on days 14--28 indicates the aberrant inductive capacity of 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene under its prolonged administration. It is suggested that the weak sensitivity to the blastogenesis caused by 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene observed in C57BL/6 mice and in (C57BL/6 X DBA/2)F1 hybrids is due to the high level of liver aryl hydrocarbon monooxygenase activity at the time of tumor appearance.", "PMID": 444573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6793", "title": "Purification of leukocytosis-promoting substance from bovine parotid gland extract.", "content": "A leukocytosis-promoting substance was purified from a crude bovine parotid gland extract. The purified substance was proved to be a single component by polyacrylamide gel disc electrophoresis. It stimulates an increase of peripheral leukocyte numbers in rabbits. The molecular weight of the physiologically active component was estimated to be 4.5 . 10(4), and the component was found by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis to be dissociated into two subcomponents.", "contents": "Purification of leukocytosis-promoting substance from bovine parotid gland extract. A leukocytosis-promoting substance was purified from a crude bovine parotid gland extract. The purified substance was proved to be a single component by polyacrylamide gel disc electrophoresis. It stimulates an increase of peripheral leukocyte numbers in rabbits. The molecular weight of the physiologically active component was estimated to be 4.5 . 10(4), and the component was found by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis to be dissociated into two subcomponents.", "PMID": 444574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6794", "title": "Preparation and chemical characterisation of calf Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein.", "content": "Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein preparations were obtained from calf urine by 1.0 M NaCl precipitation followed by 4 M urea/Sepharose 4B chromatography. By using 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis a molecular weight of 86 500 +/- 4500 (n = 12) was calculated for the glycoprotein. Amino acid and carbohydrate analyses were performed, the carbohydrate composition being (in residues per 100 amino acid residues in the glycoprotein): fucose, 0.90; galactose, 4.82; mannose, 4.63;N-acetylglucosamine, 7.36; N-acetylgalactosamine, 1.38; sialic acid, 2.93. Under conditions of mild acid hydrolysis (0.05 M H2SO4, 80 degrees C, 1 h) the calf Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein preparations were degraded partially into two lower molecular weight fragments (approximate Mr 66 000 and 51 000), as shown by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, both fragments being periodic acid-Schiff reagent positive.", "contents": "Preparation and chemical characterisation of calf Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein. Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein preparations were obtained from calf urine by 1.0 M NaCl precipitation followed by 4 M urea/Sepharose 4B chromatography. By using 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis a molecular weight of 86 500 +/- 4500 (n = 12) was calculated for the glycoprotein. Amino acid and carbohydrate analyses were performed, the carbohydrate composition being (in residues per 100 amino acid residues in the glycoprotein): fucose, 0.90; galactose, 4.82; mannose, 4.63;N-acetylglucosamine, 7.36; N-acetylgalactosamine, 1.38; sialic acid, 2.93. Under conditions of mild acid hydrolysis (0.05 M H2SO4, 80 degrees C, 1 h) the calf Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein preparations were degraded partially into two lower molecular weight fragments (approximate Mr 66 000 and 51 000), as shown by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, both fragments being periodic acid-Schiff reagent positive.", "PMID": 444575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6795", "title": "A novel form of vitamin B-12 and its derivatives.", "content": "A new isomeric form of cobalamins is reported. The conversion of cobalamin to cobalamin (the new form) is achieved by substituting the benzimidazole base by a less bulky group like H2O or CN- and modest thermal treatment. The back conversion of adenosylcobalamin to the corresponding regular form occurs in the \"base-off\" form at room temperature. It seems that the corrin ring becomes quite flexible in the \"base-off\" form and the freer axial movement of the cobalt atom flips the corrin ring into a different conformation. The change in conformation is borne out by subtle changes in the proton magnetic resonances on the corrin ring and the base, and very marked variation in the emission M\u00f6ssbauer spectra. The latter is indicative of appreciable changes in the spatial conformation in the immediate vicinity of the central metal atom. The ultraviolet-visible and infrared spectra of cobalamin are indistinguishable from those of its corresponding regular form. The new conformational isomeric species is present as an impurity in all commercially available cobalamins (including pharmaceutical preparations). It raises the question whether the cobalamins' constitute the real biologically active anti-anemic factor in humans.", "contents": "A novel form of vitamin B-12 and its derivatives. A new isomeric form of cobalamins is reported. The conversion of cobalamin to cobalamin (the new form) is achieved by substituting the benzimidazole base by a less bulky group like H2O or CN- and modest thermal treatment. The back conversion of adenosylcobalamin to the corresponding regular form occurs in the \"base-off\" form at room temperature. It seems that the corrin ring becomes quite flexible in the \"base-off\" form and the freer axial movement of the cobalt atom flips the corrin ring into a different conformation. The change in conformation is borne out by subtle changes in the proton magnetic resonances on the corrin ring and the base, and very marked variation in the emission M\u00f6ssbauer spectra. The latter is indicative of appreciable changes in the spatial conformation in the immediate vicinity of the central metal atom. The ultraviolet-visible and infrared spectra of cobalamin are indistinguishable from those of its corresponding regular form. The new conformational isomeric species is present as an impurity in all commercially available cobalamins (including pharmaceutical preparations). It raises the question whether the cobalamins' constitute the real biologically active anti-anemic factor in humans.", "PMID": 444576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6796", "title": "Light generation with Fenton's reagent. Its relationship to granulocyte chemiluminescence.", "content": "A simple chemical system consisting of FeSO4 and H2O2 (Fenton's reagent) was shown to emit light (chemiluminescence). The addition of tryptophan to the reaction markedly enhanced light production. Very little chemiluminescence was observed when H2O2 was omitted from the reaction and when ferric, instead of ferrous, ions were used. Hydroxyl radical (OH.) and singlet oxygen (1 deltagO2) quenchers suppressed chemiluminescence of the FeSO4 + tryptophan + H2O2 system; and, deuterium oxide (2H2O) enhanced chemiluminescence of both FeSO4 reactions. These observations suggest that a radical chain reaction involving both OH. and 1 deltag O2 is responsible for the chemiluminescent reactions. Six iron-containing proteins, some of which are located within granulocytes, all emitted light in the presence of H2O2. Since iron and H2O2 are present in metabolically stimulated granulocytes, it is likely that chemiluminescent reactions similar to the ones demonstrated in this study account for part of the chemiluminescence of activated granulocytes.", "contents": "Light generation with Fenton's reagent. Its relationship to granulocyte chemiluminescence. A simple chemical system consisting of FeSO4 and H2O2 (Fenton's reagent) was shown to emit light (chemiluminescence). The addition of tryptophan to the reaction markedly enhanced light production. Very little chemiluminescence was observed when H2O2 was omitted from the reaction and when ferric, instead of ferrous, ions were used. Hydroxyl radical (OH.) and singlet oxygen (1 deltagO2) quenchers suppressed chemiluminescence of the FeSO4 + tryptophan + H2O2 system; and, deuterium oxide (2H2O) enhanced chemiluminescence of both FeSO4 reactions. These observations suggest that a radical chain reaction involving both OH. and 1 deltag O2 is responsible for the chemiluminescent reactions. Six iron-containing proteins, some of which are located within granulocytes, all emitted light in the presence of H2O2. Since iron and H2O2 are present in metabolically stimulated granulocytes, it is likely that chemiluminescent reactions similar to the ones demonstrated in this study account for part of the chemiluminescence of activated granulocytes.", "PMID": 444577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6797", "title": "Regulation of rat lung adenylate cyclase by cytoplasmic factor(s) during development.", "content": "Basal adenylate cyclase activity in rat lung homogenate was low prenatally but increased several-fold after birth and remained elevated to maturity. The results also demonstrate the appearance of some factor(s) in the lung cytoplasm at a certain age which markedly activated adenylate cyclase. During late gestation and early neonatal life, when the cytoplasmic factor(s) was low or absent, basal adenylate cyclase activity was low and norepinephrine and NaF produced maximum activation of the enzyme. However, when the cytoplasmic factor(s) appeared in the adult lungs, basal adenylate cyclase activity was elevated and both norepinephrine and NaF produced little or no activation of the enzyme. These data suggest a role for the cytoplasmic factor(s) in regulating rat lung adenylate cyclase. The cytoplasmic factor(s) appeared to be a protein since it was inactivated by trypsin digestion and by heating to 75 degrees C. Activation of adenylate cyclase was not due to small ions or other low molecular weight components of the cytoplasm as dialysis of the supernatant did not alter its activation of adenylate cyclase. The cytoplasmic factor(s) did not appear to be either GTP or calcium-dependent regulator of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase as these did not activate the rat lung adenylate cyclase.", "contents": "Regulation of rat lung adenylate cyclase by cytoplasmic factor(s) during development. Basal adenylate cyclase activity in rat lung homogenate was low prenatally but increased several-fold after birth and remained elevated to maturity. The results also demonstrate the appearance of some factor(s) in the lung cytoplasm at a certain age which markedly activated adenylate cyclase. During late gestation and early neonatal life, when the cytoplasmic factor(s) was low or absent, basal adenylate cyclase activity was low and norepinephrine and NaF produced maximum activation of the enzyme. However, when the cytoplasmic factor(s) appeared in the adult lungs, basal adenylate cyclase activity was elevated and both norepinephrine and NaF produced little or no activation of the enzyme. These data suggest a role for the cytoplasmic factor(s) in regulating rat lung adenylate cyclase. The cytoplasmic factor(s) appeared to be a protein since it was inactivated by trypsin digestion and by heating to 75 degrees C. Activation of adenylate cyclase was not due to small ions or other low molecular weight components of the cytoplasm as dialysis of the supernatant did not alter its activation of adenylate cyclase. The cytoplasmic factor(s) did not appear to be either GTP or calcium-dependent regulator of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase as these did not activate the rat lung adenylate cyclase.", "PMID": 444579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6798", "title": "Synergistic effects of thyroxine and glucocorticoid in induction of trypsin-like esteroprotease in mouse submandibular gland.", "content": "The actions of thyroxine, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and hydrocortisone singly or in combination in enzyme regulation in the submandibular gland were studied in intact and adrenalectomized female mice. 1. Adrenalectomy decreased the activity of trypsin-like esteroprotease (EC 3.4.4.-), and administration of hydrocortisone to adrenalectomized mice restored the activity to normal. 2. Hydrocortisone and thyroxine had synergistic effects in induction of esteroprotease in adrenalectomized mice, but 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and hydrocortisone did not have synergistic effects in either intact or adrenalectomized mice. 3. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.49) was not influenced by change in the glucocorticoid level, but was increased by thyroxine and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone in both adrenalectomized mice and intact mice.4. Isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gel showed that there are three distinct activities of esteroprotease in this gland with isoelectric points of 5.6, 6.2 and 7.3. Both thyroxine and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone similarly induced these activities and glucocorticoids did not affected the isozyme patterns induced by the other two hormones.", "contents": "Synergistic effects of thyroxine and glucocorticoid in induction of trypsin-like esteroprotease in mouse submandibular gland. The actions of thyroxine, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and hydrocortisone singly or in combination in enzyme regulation in the submandibular gland were studied in intact and adrenalectomized female mice. 1. Adrenalectomy decreased the activity of trypsin-like esteroprotease (EC 3.4.4.-), and administration of hydrocortisone to adrenalectomized mice restored the activity to normal. 2. Hydrocortisone and thyroxine had synergistic effects in induction of esteroprotease in adrenalectomized mice, but 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and hydrocortisone did not have synergistic effects in either intact or adrenalectomized mice. 3. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.49) was not influenced by change in the glucocorticoid level, but was increased by thyroxine and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone in both adrenalectomized mice and intact mice.4. Isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gel showed that there are three distinct activities of esteroprotease in this gland with isoelectric points of 5.6, 6.2 and 7.3. Both thyroxine and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone similarly induced these activities and glucocorticoids did not affected the isozyme patterns induced by the other two hormones.", "PMID": 444580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6799", "title": "Lysosomal enzyme secretion by macrophages during intracellular storage of particles.", "content": "Cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages containing previously endocytosed zymosan or small-fibre asbestos (but not latex or sucrose) were shown to release selectively into the medium the lysosomal hydrolase beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. Thus macrophage lysosomal enzyem secretion was experimentally dissociated from endocytosis (as the residual external particles were washed away from the cells). The cells remained viable, and total activities of both N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase and of lactate dehydrogenase (a cytosol enzyme) rose with time. The relevance of such secretion by macrophages containing stored materials to chronic inflammatory processes is discussed.", "contents": "Lysosomal enzyme secretion by macrophages during intracellular storage of particles. Cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages containing previously endocytosed zymosan or small-fibre asbestos (but not latex or sucrose) were shown to release selectively into the medium the lysosomal hydrolase beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. Thus macrophage lysosomal enzyem secretion was experimentally dissociated from endocytosis (as the residual external particles were washed away from the cells). The cells remained viable, and total activities of both N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase and of lactate dehydrogenase (a cytosol enzyme) rose with time. The relevance of such secretion by macrophages containing stored materials to chronic inflammatory processes is discussed.", "PMID": 444581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6800", "title": "The rate limiting step in the reticulocyte uptake of transferrin and transferrin iron. Effects of some incubation variables.", "content": "Reticulocytes incubated in an isotonic NaCl saline medium containing glucose, glutamine and amino acids, were able to detach both iron atoms from all the transferrin incorporated by them. In the absence of these metabolites, although transferrin uptake was the same, the reticulocytes failed to remove completely the iron from the transferrin which they incorporated. It has been shown before that there is unspecific as well as specific binding of transferrin to the reticulocyte. By incubating the cells in the presence of a high concentration of bovine serum albumin, we have been able to prevent the unsepcific attachment of transferrin. At least 94% of the iodinated transferrin was capable of donating its iron to the reticulocytes.", "contents": "The rate limiting step in the reticulocyte uptake of transferrin and transferrin iron. Effects of some incubation variables. Reticulocytes incubated in an isotonic NaCl saline medium containing glucose, glutamine and amino acids, were able to detach both iron atoms from all the transferrin incorporated by them. In the absence of these metabolites, although transferrin uptake was the same, the reticulocytes failed to remove completely the iron from the transferrin which they incorporated. It has been shown before that there is unspecific as well as specific binding of transferrin to the reticulocyte. By incubating the cells in the presence of a high concentration of bovine serum albumin, we have been able to prevent the unsepcific attachment of transferrin. At least 94% of the iodinated transferrin was capable of donating its iron to the reticulocytes.", "PMID": 444583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6801", "title": "Mutations altering the catalytic activity of a plant-type ribulose biphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase in Alcaligenes eutrophus.", "content": "Use of a bacterial system has allowed the isolation of several mutationally altered species of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase having a wide range of catalytic activities. Biochemical and serological techniques were used to classify the mutant strains into three groups: (1) no detectable ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase protein present (both subunits missing); (2) mutant strains having ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenases with lowered specific activities; and (3) mutant strains producing large quantities of catalytically inactive ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase.", "contents": "Mutations altering the catalytic activity of a plant-type ribulose biphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase in Alcaligenes eutrophus. Use of a bacterial system has allowed the isolation of several mutationally altered species of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase having a wide range of catalytic activities. Biochemical and serological techniques were used to classify the mutant strains into three groups: (1) no detectable ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase protein present (both subunits missing); (2) mutant strains having ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenases with lowered specific activities; and (3) mutant strains producing large quantities of catalytically inactive ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase.", "PMID": 444584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6802", "title": "Insulin action in isolated fat cells. II. Effects of divalent cations on stimulation by insulin of protein synthesis, on inhibition of lipolysis by insulin, and on the binding of 125I-labelled insulin to isolated fat cells.", "content": "The effects of ommission of Ca2+ and Mg2+ from the incubation medium on three aspects of insulin action in isolated fat cells have been investigated. In the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-free incubation medium incorporation of L-[14C]leucine into fat cell protein was reduced in the absence of insulin. Insulin stimulated L-[14C]leucine incorporation only in the presence of added CaCl2 or MgCl2. Incubation of the cells in the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-free medium reduced but did not abolish the ability of adrenaline to stimulate lipolysis or the ability of insulin to inhibit the adrenaline-stimulated lipolysis. Specific binding of 125I-labelled insulin to the fat cells was reduced in the absence of Ca2+ and Mg2+ but was not abolished, even in the presence of EDTA. Ca2+ was routinely the most effective divalent cation in supporting these aspects of insulin action, but similar responses were obtained with Mg2+, Sr2+ and Ba2+. Since insulin still binds to the cells under conditions in which some of the cellular effects of the hormone are abolished, it is suggested that divalent cations may have a role, either direct or indirect, in the processes linking the insulin-insulin receptor complex to certain effector systems in the cells. It is tentatively suggested that this action occurs at the level of the fat cell plasma membrane.", "contents": "Insulin action in isolated fat cells. II. Effects of divalent cations on stimulation by insulin of protein synthesis, on inhibition of lipolysis by insulin, and on the binding of 125I-labelled insulin to isolated fat cells. The effects of ommission of Ca2+ and Mg2+ from the incubation medium on three aspects of insulin action in isolated fat cells have been investigated. In the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-free incubation medium incorporation of L-[14C]leucine into fat cell protein was reduced in the absence of insulin. Insulin stimulated L-[14C]leucine incorporation only in the presence of added CaCl2 or MgCl2. Incubation of the cells in the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-free medium reduced but did not abolish the ability of adrenaline to stimulate lipolysis or the ability of insulin to inhibit the adrenaline-stimulated lipolysis. Specific binding of 125I-labelled insulin to the fat cells was reduced in the absence of Ca2+ and Mg2+ but was not abolished, even in the presence of EDTA. Ca2+ was routinely the most effective divalent cation in supporting these aspects of insulin action, but similar responses were obtained with Mg2+, Sr2+ and Ba2+. Since insulin still binds to the cells under conditions in which some of the cellular effects of the hormone are abolished, it is suggested that divalent cations may have a role, either direct or indirect, in the processes linking the insulin-insulin receptor complex to certain effector systems in the cells. It is tentatively suggested that this action occurs at the level of the fat cell plasma membrane.", "PMID": 444585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6803", "title": "Folates of rat tissue. Bioassay of tissue folylpolyglutamates and a relationship of liver folypolyglutamates to nutritional folate sufficiency.", "content": "The folate content of young rat tissues extracted into boiling ascorbate was assayed by Lactobactillus casei both without and after treatment by a folate-free preparation of conjugase. The total folate content of various tissues was: liver, 8.9 microgram/g; kidney, 2.6; adrenal, 2.6; bone marrow, 2.4; spleen, 0.9; erythrocytes, 0.8; small intestinal mucosa, 0.7; small intestinal smooth muscle, 0.8; heart, 0.6; brain, 0.4, and skeletal muscle, 0.1 microgram/g tissue. For most tissues, with the exception of muscle and kidney, approximately 80% of the total folates assayed as longer chain length folylpolyglutamates. When liver folates were analyzed from rats fed folate-supplemented, control and folate-deficient diets, a relationship was found between folate nutrition and distribution of folylpolyglutamates. The proportion of total folates in the form of longer chain length folylpolyglutamates was greatest in the livers of folate-deficient rats and least in the livers of folate-supplemented rats.", "contents": "Folates of rat tissue. Bioassay of tissue folylpolyglutamates and a relationship of liver folypolyglutamates to nutritional folate sufficiency. The folate content of young rat tissues extracted into boiling ascorbate was assayed by Lactobactillus casei both without and after treatment by a folate-free preparation of conjugase. The total folate content of various tissues was: liver, 8.9 microgram/g; kidney, 2.6; adrenal, 2.6; bone marrow, 2.4; spleen, 0.9; erythrocytes, 0.8; small intestinal mucosa, 0.7; small intestinal smooth muscle, 0.8; heart, 0.6; brain, 0.4, and skeletal muscle, 0.1 microgram/g tissue. For most tissues, with the exception of muscle and kidney, approximately 80% of the total folates assayed as longer chain length folylpolyglutamates. When liver folates were analyzed from rats fed folate-supplemented, control and folate-deficient diets, a relationship was found between folate nutrition and distribution of folylpolyglutamates. The proportion of total folates in the form of longer chain length folylpolyglutamates was greatest in the livers of folate-deficient rats and least in the livers of folate-supplemented rats.", "PMID": 444586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6804", "title": "The dimerization of ferrihaems. IV. Studies on haematoferrihaem and a general appraisal of the nature and implications of dimerization.", "content": "The dimerization of haematoferrihaem was studied in phosphate buffer in the pH range 7.02--8.14. The absorbance of dilute solutions decreased over a period of several hours due to adsorption of haematoferrihaem to glass vessels. This problem was overcome by using dilute solutions within 10 min of preparation. Spectrophotometric data were consistent with a dimerization process according to the equation 2 monomer in equilibrium dimer + H+ as found earlier for other ferrihaems studied. The value of K, defined as K = [dimer] [H+]/[monomer]2, was found to be 1.00 . 10(-2). Rate constants for the forward and reverse steps in dimerization were determined at pH values of 6.63, 7.01 and 7.44, using the temperature-jump technique. The reaction pathway for dimerization was found to be similar to those of deuteroferrihaem and mesoferrihaem, but different from that of coproferrihaem. A general appraisal of the factors influencing dimerization is attempted in the light of accumulated data on various ferrihaems. With the exception of protoferrihaem, it is suggested that dimerzation increases with the hydrophobicity of the 2,4 substituents. The additional stability of the protoferrihaem dimer is explained in terms of increased interaction due to conjugation of the vinyl groups with the porphyrin macrocycle.", "contents": "The dimerization of ferrihaems. IV. Studies on haematoferrihaem and a general appraisal of the nature and implications of dimerization. The dimerization of haematoferrihaem was studied in phosphate buffer in the pH range 7.02--8.14. The absorbance of dilute solutions decreased over a period of several hours due to adsorption of haematoferrihaem to glass vessels. This problem was overcome by using dilute solutions within 10 min of preparation. Spectrophotometric data were consistent with a dimerization process according to the equation 2 monomer in equilibrium dimer + H+ as found earlier for other ferrihaems studied. The value of K, defined as K = [dimer] [H+]/[monomer]2, was found to be 1.00 . 10(-2). Rate constants for the forward and reverse steps in dimerization were determined at pH values of 6.63, 7.01 and 7.44, using the temperature-jump technique. The reaction pathway for dimerization was found to be similar to those of deuteroferrihaem and mesoferrihaem, but different from that of coproferrihaem. A general appraisal of the factors influencing dimerization is attempted in the light of accumulated data on various ferrihaems. With the exception of protoferrihaem, it is suggested that dimerzation increases with the hydrophobicity of the 2,4 substituents. The additional stability of the protoferrihaem dimer is explained in terms of increased interaction due to conjugation of the vinyl groups with the porphyrin macrocycle.", "PMID": 444587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6805", "title": "Hydrolysis of uridine diphosphate N-acetyl-D-glucosamine by embryonic cells of the hamster and rat. Determination by high-pressure liquid chromatography.", "content": "The hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by extracts of rat embryo cells has been compared to the hydrolysis of this sugar nucleotide by extracts of hamster embryo cells. A method utilizing high-pressure liquid chromatography was developed to separate and quantify the products of the hydrolysis. Rat embryo cells as well as hamster embryo cells hydrolyzed UDP-N-acetylglucosamine virtually completely under the experimental conditions. The principal product of the hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by hamster embryo cells was N-acetylglucosamine. The sugar moiety of N-acetyglucosamine, produced by hamster embryo cells, was identified by thin-layer chromatography to be glucose. By contrast, the major metabolite (60--70%) of the hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by rat embryo cells was identified as a phosphorylated acetylamino sugar. Only about 30--40% of the substrate was degraded to the free acetylamino sugar. Examination of the sugar moiety of the phosphorylated and of the free acetylamino sugar by thin-layer chromatography indicated that it was a mixture of glucose and of the epimers, mannose or galactose. The identity of the epimers has as yet not been established. Thus, unlike hamster embryo cells, rat embryo cells contain an active epimerase. However, the phosphohydrolase of the rat embryo cell which degrades the phosphorylated acetylamino sugars to the free acetylamino sugars seems to be less active than the enzyme in the hamster embryo cell. On the basis of the data of this study a comparison of the pattern of hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by normal and transformed embryonic cells of the rat and of the hamster appears feasible.", "contents": "Hydrolysis of uridine diphosphate N-acetyl-D-glucosamine by embryonic cells of the hamster and rat. Determination by high-pressure liquid chromatography. The hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by extracts of rat embryo cells has been compared to the hydrolysis of this sugar nucleotide by extracts of hamster embryo cells. A method utilizing high-pressure liquid chromatography was developed to separate and quantify the products of the hydrolysis. Rat embryo cells as well as hamster embryo cells hydrolyzed UDP-N-acetylglucosamine virtually completely under the experimental conditions. The principal product of the hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by hamster embryo cells was N-acetylglucosamine. The sugar moiety of N-acetyglucosamine, produced by hamster embryo cells, was identified by thin-layer chromatography to be glucose. By contrast, the major metabolite (60--70%) of the hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by rat embryo cells was identified as a phosphorylated acetylamino sugar. Only about 30--40% of the substrate was degraded to the free acetylamino sugar. Examination of the sugar moiety of the phosphorylated and of the free acetylamino sugar by thin-layer chromatography indicated that it was a mixture of glucose and of the epimers, mannose or galactose. The identity of the epimers has as yet not been established. Thus, unlike hamster embryo cells, rat embryo cells contain an active epimerase. However, the phosphohydrolase of the rat embryo cell which degrades the phosphorylated acetylamino sugars to the free acetylamino sugars seems to be less active than the enzyme in the hamster embryo cell. On the basis of the data of this study a comparison of the pattern of hydrolysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine by normal and transformed embryonic cells of the rat and of the hamster appears feasible.", "PMID": 444588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6806", "title": "Regulation of cytosol and nuclear progesterone receptors in rabbit uterus by estrogen, antiestrogen and progesterone administration.", "content": "A synthetic progestin, 16 alpha-ethyl-21-hydroxy-19-nor-4-pregnene-3,20-dione (ORG 2058), was utilized to measure progesterone receptors from the rabbit uterus. This steroid has a high affinity for both cytosol and nuclear receptors, with KD values of 1.2 nM (at 0--4 degrees C) and 2.3 nM (at 15 degrees C), respectively. Administration of estradiol-17 beta or a non-steroidal antiestrogen, tamoxifen, for 5 days to estrous rabbits led to a progressive rise in the cytosol receptor levels: from 34,000 to 120,000 (estradiol-17 beta) and 80,000 (tamoxifen) receptors/cell, without any major influence on the nuclear receptor content. A single intravenous injection of progesterone (5 mg/kg) elicited a 3-fold increase in the mean nuclear receptor content at 30 min after injection (from 18,000 to 48,000 receptors/nucleus). Nuclear receptor accumulation was short-lived and returned to control levels within 4 h after treatment. A second dose of progesterone given 24 h later doubled the nuclear receptor level (from 18,000 to 35,000 receptors/nucleus). The concomitant decline in the cytosol receptor content was twice that accounted for by the nuclear receptor accumulation (70,000 vs. 30,000, and 40,000 vs. 17,000 receptors/cell, after the first and second progesterone injection, respectively). Following progesterone administration, the cytosol receptor level reached a nadir by 30 min, exhibited minimal replenishment within the ensuing 24 h, and remained at approx. 50% of the pretreatment values. After a single dose or two consecutive doses of progesterone, total uterine progesterone receptor content declined to about 60% of the level prior to each dose, a nadir being reached at 2 h after treatment.", "contents": "Regulation of cytosol and nuclear progesterone receptors in rabbit uterus by estrogen, antiestrogen and progesterone administration. A synthetic progestin, 16 alpha-ethyl-21-hydroxy-19-nor-4-pregnene-3,20-dione (ORG 2058), was utilized to measure progesterone receptors from the rabbit uterus. This steroid has a high affinity for both cytosol and nuclear receptors, with KD values of 1.2 nM (at 0--4 degrees C) and 2.3 nM (at 15 degrees C), respectively. Administration of estradiol-17 beta or a non-steroidal antiestrogen, tamoxifen, for 5 days to estrous rabbits led to a progressive rise in the cytosol receptor levels: from 34,000 to 120,000 (estradiol-17 beta) and 80,000 (tamoxifen) receptors/cell, without any major influence on the nuclear receptor content. A single intravenous injection of progesterone (5 mg/kg) elicited a 3-fold increase in the mean nuclear receptor content at 30 min after injection (from 18,000 to 48,000 receptors/nucleus). Nuclear receptor accumulation was short-lived and returned to control levels within 4 h after treatment. A second dose of progesterone given 24 h later doubled the nuclear receptor level (from 18,000 to 35,000 receptors/nucleus). The concomitant decline in the cytosol receptor content was twice that accounted for by the nuclear receptor accumulation (70,000 vs. 30,000, and 40,000 vs. 17,000 receptors/cell, after the first and second progesterone injection, respectively). Following progesterone administration, the cytosol receptor level reached a nadir by 30 min, exhibited minimal replenishment within the ensuing 24 h, and remained at approx. 50% of the pretreatment values. After a single dose or two consecutive doses of progesterone, total uterine progesterone receptor content declined to about 60% of the level prior to each dose, a nadir being reached at 2 h after treatment.", "PMID": 444589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6807", "title": "Alanine metabolism in skeletal muscle in tissue culture.", "content": "Alanine production by skeletal muscle in tissue culture was studied using an established myogenic line (L6) of rat skeletal muscle cells. Correlation analyses were performed on rates of metabolism of alanine, glucose, lactate and pyruvate over incubation periods up to 96 h. Alanine production did not correlate significantly with glucose utilization (r = 0.24, P less than 0.20). Alanine production, however, did correlate with lactate production (r = 0.72, P less than 0.0005) as well as medium (r = 0.50, P less than 0.025) and intracellular (r = 0.85, P less than 0.0005) pyruvate concentrations. The intercepts of the latter two correlation analyses indicated that when medium or cell pyruvate fell below 0.28 mM or 1 nmol/mg protein, respectively, net alanine consumption occurred. Alanine synthesis also correlated (r = 0.71, P less than 0.0005) with the percent change in the cell mass action ratio for the sum of the alanine and aspartate aminotransferase reactions, i.e., [alanine] [malate]/[aspartate] [lactate]. These results suggest that alanine production is not necessarily linked to the rate of glucose utilization but rater to pyruvate overflow above a critical intracellular level; under conditions of pyruvate overflow, alanine synthesis is driven by the tendency to establish equilibrium between metabolites of the linked amino acid transaminases in skeletal muscle.", "contents": "Alanine metabolism in skeletal muscle in tissue culture. Alanine production by skeletal muscle in tissue culture was studied using an established myogenic line (L6) of rat skeletal muscle cells. Correlation analyses were performed on rates of metabolism of alanine, glucose, lactate and pyruvate over incubation periods up to 96 h. Alanine production did not correlate significantly with glucose utilization (r = 0.24, P less than 0.20). Alanine production, however, did correlate with lactate production (r = 0.72, P less than 0.0005) as well as medium (r = 0.50, P less than 0.025) and intracellular (r = 0.85, P less than 0.0005) pyruvate concentrations. The intercepts of the latter two correlation analyses indicated that when medium or cell pyruvate fell below 0.28 mM or 1 nmol/mg protein, respectively, net alanine consumption occurred. Alanine synthesis also correlated (r = 0.71, P less than 0.0005) with the percent change in the cell mass action ratio for the sum of the alanine and aspartate aminotransferase reactions, i.e., [alanine] [malate]/[aspartate] [lactate]. These results suggest that alanine production is not necessarily linked to the rate of glucose utilization but rater to pyruvate overflow above a critical intracellular level; under conditions of pyruvate overflow, alanine synthesis is driven by the tendency to establish equilibrium between metabolites of the linked amino acid transaminases in skeletal muscle.", "PMID": 444590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6808", "title": "Inhibition of phorbol ester-accelerated amino acid transport in bovine lymphocytes.", "content": "12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate, a highly active tumor-promoting agent and lymphocyte comitogen, rapidly accelerates the transport of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid in cultured bovine lymphocytes. Structure-activity studies show that the ability of phorbol diesters to accelerate alpha-aminoisobutyric acid uptake runs parallel to their potency as lymphocyte comitogens and as tumor promoters in mouse skin. This phorbol ester-accelerated, amino acid transport is largely insensitive to the inhibition of RNA and protein synthesis by actinomycin D and cycloheximide, respectively, and is insensitive to the inhibition of membrane movement by cytochalasin B and colchicine. Retinoic acid, an antagonist of the tumor-promoting and comitogenic actions of phorbol esters also inhibits the acceleration of amino acid uptake by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate; however, the epoxy derivatives of retinoic acid and structurally related analogs, which are potent antagonists of the other aspects of phorbol ester activation of lymphocytes, are inactive in blocking amino acid uptake. Comparative studies in lymphocytes show that this phorbol ester elicits a number of metabolic responses which appear to originate at the cell membrane and that these are differentially antagonized by retinoic acid, the 5,6-epoxide of retinoic acid, and related retinoid analogs.", "contents": "Inhibition of phorbol ester-accelerated amino acid transport in bovine lymphocytes. 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate, a highly active tumor-promoting agent and lymphocyte comitogen, rapidly accelerates the transport of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid in cultured bovine lymphocytes. Structure-activity studies show that the ability of phorbol diesters to accelerate alpha-aminoisobutyric acid uptake runs parallel to their potency as lymphocyte comitogens and as tumor promoters in mouse skin. This phorbol ester-accelerated, amino acid transport is largely insensitive to the inhibition of RNA and protein synthesis by actinomycin D and cycloheximide, respectively, and is insensitive to the inhibition of membrane movement by cytochalasin B and colchicine. Retinoic acid, an antagonist of the tumor-promoting and comitogenic actions of phorbol esters also inhibits the acceleration of amino acid uptake by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate; however, the epoxy derivatives of retinoic acid and structurally related analogs, which are potent antagonists of the other aspects of phorbol ester activation of lymphocytes, are inactive in blocking amino acid uptake. Comparative studies in lymphocytes show that this phorbol ester elicits a number of metabolic responses which appear to originate at the cell membrane and that these are differentially antagonized by retinoic acid, the 5,6-epoxide of retinoic acid, and related retinoid analogs.", "PMID": 444591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6809", "title": "Stimulation of ammonium ion excretion in the toad urinary bladder by an extract of human urine.", "content": "It is well known that ammonium ion excretion is increased during metabolic acidosis in mammals. The purpose of this study was to determine whether we could isolate from human urine during metabolic acidosis a factor that would stimulate NH+4 and/or H+ excretion in toad urinary bladder. Extracts of urine from six human subjects collected during NH4Cl-induced acidosis were prepared. These extracts were tested for their effect on NH+4 excretion in hemibladders mounted between plastic chambers. The extracts significantly increased NH+4 excretion in the toad urinary bladder. We found no effect on H+ excretion by these extracts. This ammoniuretic activity was not present in the urine when the same individuals were in metabolic alkalosis. We conclude that during metabolic acidosis a humoral factor is present which stimulates the excretion of NH+4. The factor could act as a permease in the bladder cell or as a stimulator of an NH+4 transport system.", "contents": "Stimulation of ammonium ion excretion in the toad urinary bladder by an extract of human urine. It is well known that ammonium ion excretion is increased during metabolic acidosis in mammals. The purpose of this study was to determine whether we could isolate from human urine during metabolic acidosis a factor that would stimulate NH+4 and/or H+ excretion in toad urinary bladder. Extracts of urine from six human subjects collected during NH4Cl-induced acidosis were prepared. These extracts were tested for their effect on NH+4 excretion in hemibladders mounted between plastic chambers. The extracts significantly increased NH+4 excretion in the toad urinary bladder. We found no effect on H+ excretion by these extracts. This ammoniuretic activity was not present in the urine when the same individuals were in metabolic alkalosis. We conclude that during metabolic acidosis a humoral factor is present which stimulates the excretion of NH+4. The factor could act as a permease in the bladder cell or as a stimulator of an NH+4 transport system.", "PMID": 444592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6810", "title": "Transport of L-carnitine induced by prednisolone in an established cell line (CCL 27). A possible explanation of the therapeutic effect of glucocorticoids in muscular carnitine deficiency syndrome.", "content": "Prednisolone (10(-8)--10(-5) mol/l) in the growth medium for 24 h increased the rate of uptake of L-[3H]carnitine in an established cell line (CCL 27) to 164 +/- 6% (mean +/-S.E.) of the rate observed in untreated cells. At the same time the intracellular content of free L-carnitine increased about 20%. The simultaneous addition of prednisolone (10(-6) mol/l for 24 h) and L-carnitine (10(-4) mol/l for 96 h) to the growth medium increased the rate of uptake to 225 +/- 8% (mean +/-S.E.) of that in untreated cells. The increase seemed to be mediated through an increase in number of carriers, as judged by the increase in V of the transport process with unchanged Km. Phosphodiesterase I, an enzyme mainly localized in the plasma membrane, increased its activity about 3.5 times when cells were stimulated with prednisolone. Thus, it seems that the increase in the rate of uptake of L-carnitine mediated by glucocorticoids, is part of a more general effect on the plasma membrane. The observations offer an explanation to the observed clinical improvement in patients with muscular carnitine deficiency treated with glucocorticoids and/or L-carnitine.", "contents": "Transport of L-carnitine induced by prednisolone in an established cell line (CCL 27). A possible explanation of the therapeutic effect of glucocorticoids in muscular carnitine deficiency syndrome. Prednisolone (10(-8)--10(-5) mol/l) in the growth medium for 24 h increased the rate of uptake of L-[3H]carnitine in an established cell line (CCL 27) to 164 +/- 6% (mean +/-S.E.) of the rate observed in untreated cells. At the same time the intracellular content of free L-carnitine increased about 20%. The simultaneous addition of prednisolone (10(-6) mol/l for 24 h) and L-carnitine (10(-4) mol/l for 96 h) to the growth medium increased the rate of uptake to 225 +/- 8% (mean +/-S.E.) of that in untreated cells. The increase seemed to be mediated through an increase in number of carriers, as judged by the increase in V of the transport process with unchanged Km. Phosphodiesterase I, an enzyme mainly localized in the plasma membrane, increased its activity about 3.5 times when cells were stimulated with prednisolone. Thus, it seems that the increase in the rate of uptake of L-carnitine mediated by glucocorticoids, is part of a more general effect on the plasma membrane. The observations offer an explanation to the observed clinical improvement in patients with muscular carnitine deficiency treated with glucocorticoids and/or L-carnitine.", "PMID": 444593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6811", "title": "[IR-spectroscopic study of the temperature anomaly of water sorbed onto DNA].", "content": "IR-spectra of liquid water and that sorbed on native and denaturated DNA at different relative humidity (RH) are obtained in the region of valent OH-(OD)-oscillations within the temperature range 0--100 degrees C. An S-shape decrease of absorption intensity was observed for water sorbed on DNA at 94% RH in two temperature regions (25--45 and 75--95 degrees C). Proceeding from the assumption that individual absorption bands are described by equal symmetrical functions, development of complex absorption contour of D2O in the region 3000--2000 cm-1 into constituents was performed. It enabled to determine band parameters of underphase vuf and synphase vsf valent and overtone of deformation oscillations of OD-groups in liquid and sorbed water and to reveal at higher temperatures the bands of \"free\" OD-groups (v = 2668 cm-1). Relative contribution of integral intensity of the latter at 96 degrees C in sorbed water is about 4 times lower than in the liquid one.", "contents": "[IR-spectroscopic study of the temperature anomaly of water sorbed onto DNA]. IR-spectra of liquid water and that sorbed on native and denaturated DNA at different relative humidity (RH) are obtained in the region of valent OH-(OD)-oscillations within the temperature range 0--100 degrees C. An S-shape decrease of absorption intensity was observed for water sorbed on DNA at 94% RH in two temperature regions (25--45 and 75--95 degrees C). Proceeding from the assumption that individual absorption bands are described by equal symmetrical functions, development of complex absorption contour of D2O in the region 3000--2000 cm-1 into constituents was performed. It enabled to determine band parameters of underphase vuf and synphase vsf valent and overtone of deformation oscillations of OD-groups in liquid and sorbed water and to reveal at higher temperatures the bands of \"free\" OD-groups (v = 2668 cm-1). Relative contribution of integral intensity of the latter at 96 degrees C in sorbed water is about 4 times lower than in the liquid one.", "PMID": 444596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6812", "title": "[Role of singlet-excited and triplet states in chlorophyll photooxidation].", "content": "Effect of p-benzoquinone concentration [Q] on the yield of ion-radicals during photooxidation of chlorophyll a with p-benzoquinone was studied by the method of impulse photoconductivity. It has been shown that in the studied range [Q] = 10(-6)--10(-1) M the relationship delta n ([Q]) has a bell-like shape with the maximum at [Q] approximately 10(-3) M. From the relationship obtained the ratio beta = delta ns/delta nt of the contributions of singlet--excited (Chl) and triplet (Chl) states of the pigment into the total yield of ion-radicals is evaluated: for [Q] less than or equal to 10(-1) M beta less than or approximately 10(-3). Primary contribution of the triplet state to the formation of ion-radical is explained, first, by a larger, as compared to the singlet-excited state, life time of the state Chl in solution and second, by the fact that the ion-radical pair 3(Chl+Q-) in the triplet state regenerates less effectively to Chl+Q, than the pair (Chl+Q-).", "contents": "[Role of singlet-excited and triplet states in chlorophyll photooxidation]. Effect of p-benzoquinone concentration [Q] on the yield of ion-radicals during photooxidation of chlorophyll a with p-benzoquinone was studied by the method of impulse photoconductivity. It has been shown that in the studied range [Q] = 10(-6)--10(-1) M the relationship delta n ([Q]) has a bell-like shape with the maximum at [Q] approximately 10(-3) M. From the relationship obtained the ratio beta = delta ns/delta nt of the contributions of singlet--excited (Chl) and triplet (Chl) states of the pigment into the total yield of ion-radicals is evaluated: for [Q] less than or equal to 10(-1) M beta less than or approximately 10(-3). Primary contribution of the triplet state to the formation of ion-radical is explained, first, by a larger, as compared to the singlet-excited state, life time of the state Chl in solution and second, by the fact that the ion-radical pair 3(Chl+Q-) in the triplet state regenerates less effectively to Chl+Q, than the pair (Chl+Q-).", "PMID": 444594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6813", "title": "[Effect of intramolecular and intermolecular reactions of the intensity of histone H2A and H4 fluorescence].", "content": "Fluorescence of histones H2A and H4 of homo- and hetero-complexes has been studied. It has been found that in the composition of small aggregates consisting of several molecules, the change of histone fluorescence intensity is caused by the change of their tertiary structure. In the composition of large aggregates, including several dozens of molecules, the intramolecular interactions contribute to the change of histone fluorescence. The intermolecular histone interactions are specific and have a cooperative character.", "contents": "[Effect of intramolecular and intermolecular reactions of the intensity of histone H2A and H4 fluorescence]. Fluorescence of histones H2A and H4 of homo- and hetero-complexes has been studied. It has been found that in the composition of small aggregates consisting of several molecules, the change of histone fluorescence intensity is caused by the change of their tertiary structure. In the composition of large aggregates, including several dozens of molecules, the intramolecular interactions contribute to the change of histone fluorescence. The intermolecular histone interactions are specific and have a cooperative character.", "PMID": 444597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6814", "title": "[Determination of the kinetic association and dissociation constants of proteins].", "content": "On the basis of protein solution characterising by a reversible association--dissociation monomer--n-mer without intermediate products the statistic moments have been calculated. On the basis of these expressions and numerical experimental values one can compute the values of kinetic constants of the association--dissociation reactions.", "contents": "[Determination of the kinetic association and dissociation constants of proteins]. On the basis of protein solution characterising by a reversible association--dissociation monomer--n-mer without intermediate products the statistic moments have been calculated. On the basis of these expressions and numerical experimental values one can compute the values of kinetic constants of the association--dissociation reactions.", "PMID": 444598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6815", "title": "[Effect of Ca2+ on glucose penetration through the pink ghosts of human erythrocytes].", "content": "It has been found that in the presence of millimolar concentrations of calcium added into pink shadows of erythrocytes (C1/2 = 4 mM) the velocity of glucose transport increases three-fold as compared to control shadows. Calcium added from the outside does not affect the glucose transport. Intracellular calcium induces a structural transition in the erythrocyte membrane, which is revealed by spectrin aggregation (electrophoretic data). Study of temperature relationships of glucose transport velocity in the presence of different concentrations of intracellular calcium as well as of the effect of inhibition of transport with phloricin under this condition allows a conclusion that due to Ca-induced transition in the membrane new specialized carriers get involved into glucose transport.", "contents": "[Effect of Ca2+ on glucose penetration through the pink ghosts of human erythrocytes]. It has been found that in the presence of millimolar concentrations of calcium added into pink shadows of erythrocytes (C1/2 = 4 mM) the velocity of glucose transport increases three-fold as compared to control shadows. Calcium added from the outside does not affect the glucose transport. Intracellular calcium induces a structural transition in the erythrocyte membrane, which is revealed by spectrin aggregation (electrophoretic data). Study of temperature relationships of glucose transport velocity in the presence of different concentrations of intracellular calcium as well as of the effect of inhibition of transport with phloricin under this condition allows a conclusion that due to Ca-induced transition in the membrane new specialized carriers get involved into glucose transport.", "PMID": 444601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6816", "title": "[Effect of toxins from the scorpion Buthus eupeus on the sodium channels of the membranes of nodes of Ranvier].", "content": "Effect of three toxins M3, M7 and M8 from Buthus eupeus poison on sodium channels of Ranvier node membrane of the frog was studied under potential fixation. Toxin M3 was found to produce no effect on sodium currents of Ranvier node membrane of the frog. Inactivation kinetics difference between normal and modified sodium channels was used in estimating a fraction of toxin-modified channels. The toxins were found to interact with the channels in the ratio 1 : 1, the dissociation constants for M7 and M8 equalling 1.7 . 10(-7) M and 0.9 . 10(-9) M respectively. Dependence of the effect of scorpion toxins on the membrane potential is stated.", "contents": "[Effect of toxins from the scorpion Buthus eupeus on the sodium channels of the membranes of nodes of Ranvier]. Effect of three toxins M3, M7 and M8 from Buthus eupeus poison on sodium channels of Ranvier node membrane of the frog was studied under potential fixation. Toxin M3 was found to produce no effect on sodium currents of Ranvier node membrane of the frog. Inactivation kinetics difference between normal and modified sodium channels was used in estimating a fraction of toxin-modified channels. The toxins were found to interact with the channels in the ratio 1 : 1, the dissociation constants for M7 and M8 equalling 1.7 . 10(-7) M and 0.9 . 10(-9) M respectively. Dependence of the effect of scorpion toxins on the membrane potential is stated.", "PMID": 444600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6817", "title": "[Magnetic relaxation of water protons and the state of the water photodissociation system in chloroplasts].", "content": "The spin-spin relaxation time T2 of water protons is measured in chloroplast suspensions. It is shown that chloroplast lamellae efficiently increase the rate of proton magnetic relaxation, this effect being a linear function of chloroplast concentration. There is a fast exchange between the water molecules in different environments, thus the measured relaxation rate is a weight average of all water molecules. The rate of proton relaxation is decreased when membrane bound manganese is removed from chloroplasts by tris-washing procedure. The relaxation effect is slightly reduced in the presence of Photosystem II electron acceptors.", "contents": "[Magnetic relaxation of water protons and the state of the water photodissociation system in chloroplasts]. The spin-spin relaxation time T2 of water protons is measured in chloroplast suspensions. It is shown that chloroplast lamellae efficiently increase the rate of proton magnetic relaxation, this effect being a linear function of chloroplast concentration. There is a fast exchange between the water molecules in different environments, thus the measured relaxation rate is a weight average of all water molecules. The rate of proton relaxation is decreased when membrane bound manganese is removed from chloroplasts by tris-washing procedure. The relaxation effect is slightly reduced in the presence of Photosystem II electron acceptors.", "PMID": 444604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6818", "title": "[Effect of paramagnetic additives on the spin lattice relaxation of the protons of intracellular water].", "content": "Studies of the effects of Mn2+ and Fe3+ paramagnetic ions on spin-lattice relaxation of water protons in plant cells have shown that paramagnetic admixtures which are in the cells under normal conditions (in natural quantities) produce no significant effect on the rate of spin-lattice relation of water protons. On the basis of the investigations of proton, spin-lattice relaxation at increased content of Mn2+ paramagnetic ions in plant cells possible separation of relaxation times T1l and T1s which are corresponded by different water fractions in the cells is shown as well as possible stimation of water quantity in the fractions.", "contents": "[Effect of paramagnetic additives on the spin lattice relaxation of the protons of intracellular water]. Studies of the effects of Mn2+ and Fe3+ paramagnetic ions on spin-lattice relaxation of water protons in plant cells have shown that paramagnetic admixtures which are in the cells under normal conditions (in natural quantities) produce no significant effect on the rate of spin-lattice relation of water protons. On the basis of the investigations of proton, spin-lattice relaxation at increased content of Mn2+ paramagnetic ions in plant cells possible separation of relaxation times T1l and T1s which are corresponded by different water fractions in the cells is shown as well as possible stimation of water quantity in the fractions.", "PMID": 444605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6819", "title": "[Electrical interaction between muscle fibers].", "content": "When one zone of motor nerve endings is \"switched off\" by injecting d-tubocurarine solution into it the propagation velocity of action potentials in different regions of biarticular muscles is changed. In the middle regions of the muscle where the interference of two opposite waves of electric activity in most clearly pronounced, the \"switching off\" of the proximal zone of motor endings decreases the AP propagation velocity in the muscle fibres of the distal zone. When the distal zone of motor endings is \"switched off\" the AP propagation velocity increases. The data obtained point to the effect of electric processes in some muscle fibres on those in other muscle fibres. The degree of this effect is determined by the muscle architectonics and topography of motor nerve endings.", "contents": "[Electrical interaction between muscle fibers]. When one zone of motor nerve endings is \"switched off\" by injecting d-tubocurarine solution into it the propagation velocity of action potentials in different regions of biarticular muscles is changed. In the middle regions of the muscle where the interference of two opposite waves of electric activity in most clearly pronounced, the \"switching off\" of the proximal zone of motor endings decreases the AP propagation velocity in the muscle fibres of the distal zone. When the distal zone of motor endings is \"switched off\" the AP propagation velocity increases. The data obtained point to the effect of electric processes in some muscle fibres on those in other muscle fibres. The degree of this effect is determined by the muscle architectonics and topography of motor nerve endings.", "PMID": 444606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6820", "title": "[Spectral forms of the chlorophyll of mutants of Chlamydomonas with inactive photosystems].", "content": "Investigations of non-photosinthesizing mutants of Chlamydomonas reinhardii with damaged activity of both or one of the photosystems have shown that the chlorophyll a form with the absorption maximum at 685 nm and low temperature fluorescence band at 696 nm is a part of the pigment-protein complex of PS-2. Chlorophyll a forms with absorption maxima at 689, 698 and 703 nm belong to the pigment-protein complex of PS-1. They seem to be responsible for the long-wave band of chlorophyll fluorescence with the maximum at 707--718 nm. Chlorophyll a forms with absorption at 661, 667 and 678 nm and a short-wave fluorescence band at 685--690 nm rank among the pigments of the light-converging complex, as well as chlorophyll b with the absorption maximum at 644 and 649 nm.", "contents": "[Spectral forms of the chlorophyll of mutants of Chlamydomonas with inactive photosystems]. Investigations of non-photosinthesizing mutants of Chlamydomonas reinhardii with damaged activity of both or one of the photosystems have shown that the chlorophyll a form with the absorption maximum at 685 nm and low temperature fluorescence band at 696 nm is a part of the pigment-protein complex of PS-2. Chlorophyll a forms with absorption maxima at 689, 698 and 703 nm belong to the pigment-protein complex of PS-1. They seem to be responsible for the long-wave band of chlorophyll fluorescence with the maximum at 707--718 nm. Chlorophyll a forms with absorption at 661, 667 and 678 nm and a short-wave fluorescence band at 685--690 nm rank among the pigments of the light-converging complex, as well as chlorophyll b with the absorption maximum at 644 and 649 nm.", "PMID": 444602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6821", "title": "[Mechanical deformations of bioconstructions during different stages of morphogenesis].", "content": "The stress-deformation regularities of the body behaviour are taken as principal pattern formation factors in bioconstructions: mutually compressed cap rays of Acetabularia and contiguous tissue layers (the model). With the growth of rays or layers mechanical tensions which are initiated in them increase. If no morphogenetic loss of shape stability is resulted, an alternative algorithm of natural complication of their initial pattern is finally realized and ruptures, shifts and other deformations are formed in some weakened elements of the constructions. Among rigid stable parameters of biomaterials and geometric parameters of bioconstructions only the latter prove to be the determining ones in feasibility criterion of this or that extreme case of pattern formation (with the loss of stability or fractures). Restrictions imposed to the values of possible deformations are conditioned in case of the loss of pattern stability by geometric parameter, in case of fractures--by the strength parameters.", "contents": "[Mechanical deformations of bioconstructions during different stages of morphogenesis]. The stress-deformation regularities of the body behaviour are taken as principal pattern formation factors in bioconstructions: mutually compressed cap rays of Acetabularia and contiguous tissue layers (the model). With the growth of rays or layers mechanical tensions which are initiated in them increase. If no morphogenetic loss of shape stability is resulted, an alternative algorithm of natural complication of their initial pattern is finally realized and ruptures, shifts and other deformations are formed in some weakened elements of the constructions. Among rigid stable parameters of biomaterials and geometric parameters of bioconstructions only the latter prove to be the determining ones in feasibility criterion of this or that extreme case of pattern formation (with the loss of stability or fractures). Restrictions imposed to the values of possible deformations are conditioned in case of the loss of pattern stability by geometric parameter, in case of fractures--by the strength parameters.", "PMID": 444608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6822", "title": "[Effect of specialized contacts on fiber interaction during the spread of excitation in smooth muscle and myocardial tissues].", "content": "A mathematical model of closely packed parallel muscle fibres with side by side junctions was studied. High coupling coefficient for both heart and smooth muscle fibres was shown to be available at rather low junction permeability. The coupling coefficient for heart fibers is equal to 0.5 at specific junction membrane resistance as high as 100 omega cm2. For the same coupling ratio in smooth muscle the specific junction membrane resistance should be even greater (1000 omega cm2). The role of nexuses and tight junctions in conduction of excitation is discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of specialized contacts on fiber interaction during the spread of excitation in smooth muscle and myocardial tissues]. A mathematical model of closely packed parallel muscle fibres with side by side junctions was studied. High coupling coefficient for both heart and smooth muscle fibres was shown to be available at rather low junction permeability. The coupling coefficient for heart fibers is equal to 0.5 at specific junction membrane resistance as high as 100 omega cm2. For the same coupling ratio in smooth muscle the specific junction membrane resistance should be even greater (1000 omega cm2). The role of nexuses and tight junctions in conduction of excitation is discussed.", "PMID": 444610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6823", "title": "[Theory of EEG potential in a model of the thin membranes of the brain].", "content": "The methods of estimating a momentary value of the epidural potential using several values of EEG, sampled at the same instant, are explored theoretically. The weights of the summation of these EEG-potentials for the case of simple disposition of electrodes, are single-valued by means of elementary consideration of the potential theory and symmetry. The space filters of EEG obtained in such a way, were analysed on the basis of the model of thin integuments of the brains. The systems of 4--8 electrodes on the scalp are proposed for the estimation of mono- and bipolar ECoG's, which are less sensitive to ECoG of the remote cortex than ordinary derivations of EEG.", "contents": "[Theory of EEG potential in a model of the thin membranes of the brain]. The methods of estimating a momentary value of the epidural potential using several values of EEG, sampled at the same instant, are explored theoretically. The weights of the summation of these EEG-potentials for the case of simple disposition of electrodes, are single-valued by means of elementary consideration of the potential theory and symmetry. The space filters of EEG obtained in such a way, were analysed on the basis of the model of thin integuments of the brains. The systems of 4--8 electrodes on the scalp are proposed for the estimation of mono- and bipolar ECoG's, which are less sensitive to ECoG of the remote cortex than ordinary derivations of EEG.", "PMID": 444611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6824", "title": "[Mechanism of the effect of neuronal response suppression in the auditory nerve during exposure to bitonal stimuli].", "content": "It is supposed that interreceptor currents existing due to microphonic and summating potentials are the exiting factors for the neuron endings of the cochlear nerve. A model is proposed of the formation of the cochlear neuron responses under the stimulation of the hearing system by a tone signal with a changing frequency and by a signal consisting of two tones. It is shown that the proposed model explains the effect of inhibition of the neuron response to a given tone signal when another tone signal of proper intensity arises in a definite frequency region.", "contents": "[Mechanism of the effect of neuronal response suppression in the auditory nerve during exposure to bitonal stimuli]. It is supposed that interreceptor currents existing due to microphonic and summating potentials are the exiting factors for the neuron endings of the cochlear nerve. A model is proposed of the formation of the cochlear neuron responses under the stimulation of the hearing system by a tone signal with a changing frequency and by a signal consisting of two tones. It is shown that the proposed model explains the effect of inhibition of the neuron response to a given tone signal when another tone signal of proper intensity arises in a definite frequency region.", "PMID": 444612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6825", "title": "[Biosublicons].", "content": "Biosublicon is an ice cylindrical thread on the surface of which a continuous helix of chain biopolymers is packed. Such structures are spontaneously formed during sublimation of frozen aqueous solutions of biopolymers with simultaneous illumination (lambda greater than 220 nm). Biosublicons are produced from diluted solutions containing a racemate mixture of amino acids and nucleotides. Their peculiar formation is discussed.", "contents": "[Biosublicons]. Biosublicon is an ice cylindrical thread on the surface of which a continuous helix of chain biopolymers is packed. Such structures are spontaneously formed during sublimation of frozen aqueous solutions of biopolymers with simultaneous illumination (lambda greater than 220 nm). Biosublicons are produced from diluted solutions containing a racemate mixture of amino acids and nucleotides. Their peculiar formation is discussed.", "PMID": 444616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6826", "title": "[Computer study of the dynamics of human movement].", "content": "Dynamics of control and construction of man's movement was modeled on a computer. Measuring--computing complex was elaborated which involved means for movement recording, mathematical model and program provision for computing direct and inverse problems of dynamics. Equations of movement and subsequent operations were carried out directly on the computer. Cubic smoothing splines were used during approximation and differentiation of the experimental data. Two human concrete movements were studied. It was found that control over man's elementary movements was realized according to TAU laws in complex movements controling and stabilizing functions of the movements can be distinguished.", "contents": "[Computer study of the dynamics of human movement]. Dynamics of control and construction of man's movement was modeled on a computer. Measuring--computing complex was elaborated which involved means for movement recording, mathematical model and program provision for computing direct and inverse problems of dynamics. Equations of movement and subsequent operations were carried out directly on the computer. Cubic smoothing splines were used during approximation and differentiation of the experimental data. Two human concrete movements were studied. It was found that control over man's elementary movements was realized according to TAU laws in complex movements controling and stabilizing functions of the movements can be distinguished.", "PMID": 444613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6827", "title": "[Calorimetric study of heat denaturation of beta-trypsin].", "content": "Thermal denaturation of beta-trypsin was studied by scanning microcalorimetry. It is shown that the denaturational transition is well described by the one-step model of transition between two macroscopic states. The specific enthalpy of denaturation is a linear function of temperature, the extrapolation to 110 degrees leading to a value of 54.2 J/g, i. e. to the value being characteristic for small compact globular proteins.", "contents": "[Calorimetric study of heat denaturation of beta-trypsin]. Thermal denaturation of beta-trypsin was studied by scanning microcalorimetry. It is shown that the denaturational transition is well described by the one-step model of transition between two macroscopic states. The specific enthalpy of denaturation is a linear function of temperature, the extrapolation to 110 degrees leading to a value of 54.2 J/g, i. e. to the value being characteristic for small compact globular proteins.", "PMID": 444619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6828", "title": "[Internal movement within globular proteins in accordance with the relationship between temperature and spin-lattice relaxation time].", "content": "The minima on the temperature dependence of T1 for protein protons were observed in dried SA at temperature about -100 degrees C and also about 0 degree C in SA and RNAase solutions in D2O. The minima of the temperature dependence were ascribed to motions of methyl groups of proteins, in the first case, and to oscillation of the polypeptide chain in the second case, both at characteristic frequencies of 10(8) s-1 in the minimum points.", "contents": "[Internal movement within globular proteins in accordance with the relationship between temperature and spin-lattice relaxation time]. The minima on the temperature dependence of T1 for protein protons were observed in dried SA at temperature about -100 degrees C and also about 0 degree C in SA and RNAase solutions in D2O. The minima of the temperature dependence were ascribed to motions of methyl groups of proteins, in the first case, and to oscillation of the polypeptide chain in the second case, both at characteristic frequencies of 10(8) s-1 in the minimum points.", "PMID": 444614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6829", "title": "[Effect of creatine phosphate synthesis on the membrane potential of mitochondria].", "content": "The method of the penetrating ions allows to observe the creatine phosphokinase function of heart mitochondria in steady state conditions. The addition of ADP to respiring mitochondria decreases the membrane potential in the course of the ATP synthesis. The subsequent addition of creatine decreases the membrane potential for a long period of time because of ADP formation in creatine phosphokinase reaction. It was shown in the experiments with maintainance of the constant concentration of ADP or ATP in the medium that the ADP concentration in the medium acts mainly on the membrane potential during the creatine phosphate synthesis. There is no effect of creatine on the membrane potential of liver mitochondria which have no creatine phosphokinase.", "contents": "[Effect of creatine phosphate synthesis on the membrane potential of mitochondria]. The method of the penetrating ions allows to observe the creatine phosphokinase function of heart mitochondria in steady state conditions. The addition of ADP to respiring mitochondria decreases the membrane potential in the course of the ATP synthesis. The subsequent addition of creatine decreases the membrane potential for a long period of time because of ADP formation in creatine phosphokinase reaction. It was shown in the experiments with maintainance of the constant concentration of ADP or ATP in the medium that the ADP concentration in the medium acts mainly on the membrane potential during the creatine phosphate synthesis. There is no effect of creatine on the membrane potential of liver mitochondria which have no creatine phosphokinase.", "PMID": 444623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6830", "title": "Chromosome survey of newborn infants in Tokyo: follow-up study for XYY.", "content": "In order to ascertain the frequency of chromosome aberrations among newborn infants in Japan, a chromosome survey of a large number of newborn infants is in progress. A series of 10,270 consecutive newborn babies, 5,341 male and 4,929 female, have been screened for clinical manifestations of autosomal aberrations and for sex-chromatin and sex-chromosome aberrations. Chromosome studies were carried out on 185 infants with suspected chromosome aberrations. Of these, 23 had abnormal karyotypes, including 2 males with a 47,XXY complement, 1 female with 45,X complement, 3 males with a 47,XYY complement, 2 with trisomy 13 syndrome, 3 with trisomy 18 (including one mosaicism), 10 with Down syndrome (including 1 mosaicism), 1 with B5p partial trisomy, and 1 with Y-D translocation. Developmental studies of four XYY children and one 45,X girl are in progress.", "contents": "Chromosome survey of newborn infants in Tokyo: follow-up study for XYY. In order to ascertain the frequency of chromosome aberrations among newborn infants in Japan, a chromosome survey of a large number of newborn infants is in progress. A series of 10,270 consecutive newborn babies, 5,341 male and 4,929 female, have been screened for clinical manifestations of autosomal aberrations and for sex-chromatin and sex-chromosome aberrations. Chromosome studies were carried out on 185 infants with suspected chromosome aberrations. Of these, 23 had abnormal karyotypes, including 2 males with a 47,XXY complement, 1 female with 45,X complement, 3 males with a 47,XYY complement, 2 with trisomy 13 syndrome, 3 with trisomy 18 (including one mosaicism), 10 with Down syndrome (including 1 mosaicism), 1 with B5p partial trisomy, and 1 with Y-D translocation. Developmental studies of four XYY children and one 45,X girl are in progress.", "PMID": 444639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6831", "title": "Platelet alpha granules contain a growth factor for fibroblasts.", "content": "Platelets contain a polypeptide growth factor that stimulates the replication of normal connective tissue cells; this platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is released during the clotting process. Human platelets from normal volunteers were disrupted by nitrogen cavitation, and the subcellular organelles were fractionated by ultracentrifugation through a 30%--60% sucrose gradient. Electron microscopy revealed that fraction 7 (density 1.23 g/liter) contained the largest number of alpha granules. The specific activity of platelet fibrinogen, an alpha-granule marker, was also highest in this fraction. The subcellular fractions were assay for the presence of PDGF and for beta-thromboglobulin. PDGF was assayed quantitatively by the stimulation of DNA synthesis in confluent growth-arrested BALB/c-3T3 cells, whereas the concentration of beta-thromboglobulin was determined by radioimmunoassay. The highest concentrations of both PDGF and beta-thromboglobulin were found in the alpha-granule fraction. In contrast, beta-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme, was more diffusely distributed and had its highest specific activity in fractions of lower density than those for PDGS, beta-thromboglobulin, or fibrinogen. The data demonstrate that the alpha granules of platelets provide a unique delivery system for PDGF, a polypeptide hormone with growth-promoting activity for connective tissue cells.", "contents": "Platelet alpha granules contain a growth factor for fibroblasts. Platelets contain a polypeptide growth factor that stimulates the replication of normal connective tissue cells; this platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is released during the clotting process. Human platelets from normal volunteers were disrupted by nitrogen cavitation, and the subcellular organelles were fractionated by ultracentrifugation through a 30%--60% sucrose gradient. Electron microscopy revealed that fraction 7 (density 1.23 g/liter) contained the largest number of alpha granules. The specific activity of platelet fibrinogen, an alpha-granule marker, was also highest in this fraction. The subcellular fractions were assay for the presence of PDGF and for beta-thromboglobulin. PDGF was assayed quantitatively by the stimulation of DNA synthesis in confluent growth-arrested BALB/c-3T3 cells, whereas the concentration of beta-thromboglobulin was determined by radioimmunoassay. The highest concentrations of both PDGF and beta-thromboglobulin were found in the alpha-granule fraction. In contrast, beta-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme, was more diffusely distributed and had its highest specific activity in fractions of lower density than those for PDGS, beta-thromboglobulin, or fibrinogen. The data demonstrate that the alpha granules of platelets provide a unique delivery system for PDGF, a polypeptide hormone with growth-promoting activity for connective tissue cells.", "PMID": 444648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6832", "title": "Distribution of iron between the binding sites of transferrin in serum: methods and results in normal human subjects.", "content": "When it is incompletely saturated with iron, transferrin may exist in four molecular forms: apotransferrin, monoferric (A) transferrin (with iron occupying only the A site of the protein), monoferric (B) transferrin, and diferric transferrin. By combining electrophoresis in urea-polyacrylamide gels with crossed immunoelectrophoresis using specific antihuman transferin antiserum, it is possible to display and estimate the concentration of each of these four forms in normal human serum. The distribution of iron between the binding sites of transferrin is neither random nor determined by the relative binding strengths of transferrin's two sites. Rather, the more weakly binding and acid-labile B site of the protein is predominantly occupied.", "contents": "Distribution of iron between the binding sites of transferrin in serum: methods and results in normal human subjects. When it is incompletely saturated with iron, transferrin may exist in four molecular forms: apotransferrin, monoferric (A) transferrin (with iron occupying only the A site of the protein), monoferric (B) transferrin, and diferric transferrin. By combining electrophoresis in urea-polyacrylamide gels with crossed immunoelectrophoresis using specific antihuman transferin antiserum, it is possible to display and estimate the concentration of each of these four forms in normal human serum. The distribution of iron between the binding sites of transferrin is neither random nor determined by the relative binding strengths of transferrin's two sites. Rather, the more weakly binding and acid-labile B site of the protein is predominantly occupied.", "PMID": 444649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6833", "title": "Presence of mast cell precursors in peripheral blood of mice demonstrated by parabiosis.", "content": "The presence of mast cell precursors in peripheral blood was examined. The beige C57BL/6 (bgj/bgj, Chediak-Higashi syndrome) mouse was parabiosed with the normal C57BL/6 mouse. Mast cells containing giant granules and originating in the beige partner appeared in the normal parabiont. A comparable proportion of normal-mouse-type mast cells developed in the beige parabiont as well. In spite of the low radiosensitivity of mature mast cells, irradiation of the normal parabiont reduced the proportion of normal-mouse-type mast cells appearing in the beige partner. It was concluded, therefore, that the precursors of mast cells can migrate through the bloodstream.", "contents": "Presence of mast cell precursors in peripheral blood of mice demonstrated by parabiosis. The presence of mast cell precursors in peripheral blood was examined. The beige C57BL/6 (bgj/bgj, Chediak-Higashi syndrome) mouse was parabiosed with the normal C57BL/6 mouse. Mast cells containing giant granules and originating in the beige partner appeared in the normal parabiont. A comparable proportion of normal-mouse-type mast cells developed in the beige parabiont as well. In spite of the low radiosensitivity of mature mast cells, irradiation of the normal parabiont reduced the proportion of normal-mouse-type mast cells appearing in the beige partner. It was concluded, therefore, that the precursors of mast cells can migrate through the bloodstream.", "PMID": 444650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6834", "title": "Preferential inhibition of murine macrophage colony formation by prostaglandin E.", "content": "Murine bone marrow progenitor cells that gave rise to macrophage colonies in semisolid agar were found to be more sensitive to prostaglandins of the E series (PGE) than were precursor cells of granulocytes and megakaryocytes. Macrophage colonies themselves had different sensitivities to the molecule. Precursor cells of macrophages that formed colonies in the presence of a stimulating activity from L cells (L-cell CSA) were inhibited to 50% levels by 3 x 10(-9)-M PGE. Macrophage progenitor cells, which require both L-cell CSA and rat hemolysate for colony growth, were inhibited to the same level by 3 x 10(-7)-M PGE. Other colony types (granulocytes and megakaryocytes) were sensitive to PGE only at concentrations greater than 10(-6) M. Accordingly, addition of different PGE concentrations to the culture assay should allow easy detection of precursor cells with morphologically distinct end cells. The different sensitivities to PGE of two macrophage colony types of different maturation stages indicate that PGE may provide feedback to control macrophage formation by inhibiting proliferation and differentiation of immature monocytoid cells.", "contents": "Preferential inhibition of murine macrophage colony formation by prostaglandin E. Murine bone marrow progenitor cells that gave rise to macrophage colonies in semisolid agar were found to be more sensitive to prostaglandins of the E series (PGE) than were precursor cells of granulocytes and megakaryocytes. Macrophage colonies themselves had different sensitivities to the molecule. Precursor cells of macrophages that formed colonies in the presence of a stimulating activity from L cells (L-cell CSA) were inhibited to 50% levels by 3 x 10(-9)-M PGE. Macrophage progenitor cells, which require both L-cell CSA and rat hemolysate for colony growth, were inhibited to the same level by 3 x 10(-7)-M PGE. Other colony types (granulocytes and megakaryocytes) were sensitive to PGE only at concentrations greater than 10(-6) M. Accordingly, addition of different PGE concentrations to the culture assay should allow easy detection of precursor cells with morphologically distinct end cells. The different sensitivities to PGE of two macrophage colony types of different maturation stages indicate that PGE may provide feedback to control macrophage formation by inhibiting proliferation and differentiation of immature monocytoid cells.", "PMID": 444651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6835", "title": "Increased circulating neutrophils with surface receptor activity for immunoglobulin G in polycythemia vera and myeloid metaplasia.", "content": "Reports of heterogeneity of IgG receptor activity of normal circulating neutrophils prompted measurements in myeloproliferative disease to determine if dysplasia of the hematic stem cell resulted in an abnormality of this membrane property. IgG receptors were assayed by rosette formation in suspension with human Rh-positive erythrocytes sensitized with high-titer Rh antiserum. IgG receptors were detected on 19 +/- 1.6% (mean +/- SEM) of neutrophils from 45 normal subjects. A significant increase in IgG-receptor-bearing neutrophils was found in polycythemia vera (PV) and myeloid metaplasia (MyM), with values of 70 +/- 3.6% and 69.7 +/- 4.3%, respectively. Normal values were observed in polycythemic states not due to myeloproliferative disease and in chronic myelocytic leukemia. Rosette-forming neutrophils were increased to 52.3 +/- 3.7% in infection and inflammatory disease, but this value was significantly lower than those in PV and MyM. Increased IgG receptors in PV and MyM may be related to the activated state of the neutrophil and may result from an intrinsic cellular abnormality of the proliferating clone or from altered bone marrow release. Quantitation of neutrophil IgG receptors may be of value in the differential diagnosis of PV and MyM and may offer insights into the derangement of hematopoiesis that underlies these myeloproliferative disorders.", "contents": "Increased circulating neutrophils with surface receptor activity for immunoglobulin G in polycythemia vera and myeloid metaplasia. Reports of heterogeneity of IgG receptor activity of normal circulating neutrophils prompted measurements in myeloproliferative disease to determine if dysplasia of the hematic stem cell resulted in an abnormality of this membrane property. IgG receptors were assayed by rosette formation in suspension with human Rh-positive erythrocytes sensitized with high-titer Rh antiserum. IgG receptors were detected on 19 +/- 1.6% (mean +/- SEM) of neutrophils from 45 normal subjects. A significant increase in IgG-receptor-bearing neutrophils was found in polycythemia vera (PV) and myeloid metaplasia (MyM), with values of 70 +/- 3.6% and 69.7 +/- 4.3%, respectively. Normal values were observed in polycythemic states not due to myeloproliferative disease and in chronic myelocytic leukemia. Rosette-forming neutrophils were increased to 52.3 +/- 3.7% in infection and inflammatory disease, but this value was significantly lower than those in PV and MyM. Increased IgG receptors in PV and MyM may be related to the activated state of the neutrophil and may result from an intrinsic cellular abnormality of the proliferating clone or from altered bone marrow release. Quantitation of neutrophil IgG receptors may be of value in the differential diagnosis of PV and MyM and may offer insights into the derangement of hematopoiesis that underlies these myeloproliferative disorders.", "PMID": 444652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6836", "title": "Fetal hemoglobin in polycythemia vera: cellular distribution in 50 unselected patients.", "content": "Fetal hemoglobin was studied in 50 unselected patients with polycythemia vera with chemical determinations of Hb F and measurements of F-cell levels using fluorescent anti-Hb F antibodies. Although in the majority of the patients Hb F production did not differ from that in normal controls, in 20% of the patients F-cell values were above the normal range. There was no correlation between F-cell values and duration of disease, treatment modality, presence of myelofibrosis, or hematologic parameters at the time of study. In 5 of 50 patients 30%--45% of the erythrocytes contained Hb F; such striking elevations of F cells may reflect a distorted differentiation of erythroid precursor cells in certain patients with this disorder.", "contents": "Fetal hemoglobin in polycythemia vera: cellular distribution in 50 unselected patients. Fetal hemoglobin was studied in 50 unselected patients with polycythemia vera with chemical determinations of Hb F and measurements of F-cell levels using fluorescent anti-Hb F antibodies. Although in the majority of the patients Hb F production did not differ from that in normal controls, in 20% of the patients F-cell values were above the normal range. There was no correlation between F-cell values and duration of disease, treatment modality, presence of myelofibrosis, or hematologic parameters at the time of study. In 5 of 50 patients 30%--45% of the erythrocytes contained Hb F; such striking elevations of F cells may reflect a distorted differentiation of erythroid precursor cells in certain patients with this disorder.", "PMID": 444654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6837", "title": "In vivo erythropoietin requirements of regenerating erythroid progenitors (BFU-e, CFU-e) in bone marrow of mice.", "content": "Erythroid progenitors (B-8, B-4, CFU-e) in the femoral marrow of polycythemic mice were measured by in vitro culture assays after a single administration of BCNU or Myleran. BCNU reduced pluripotent stem cells to 40% and erythroid progenitors to less than 5% of normal. B-8, the earliest erythroid progenitors, regenerated without erythropoietin (Epo) completely within 5 days. At 14 days after BCNU, intermediate progenitors (B-4) attained 60% of their normal numbers and CFU-e attained approximately 30%. Daily injections of Epo promptly restored normal B-4 numbers and near-normal CFU-e numbers in BCNU-treated mice. After Myleran, CFU-s remained below 2% of normal for 14 days, and no regeneration of the B-8 occurred with or without daily Epo injections. The findings suggest that regneration of B-8 was dependent on cell inflow from the pluripotent stem cell compartment but was independent of the presence of Epo. Intermediate progenitors (B-4) required Epo and the presence of B-8 for complete and permanent regeneration. CFU-e were the most Epo-dependent of the three progenitors. B-4, recruited by Epo, required after their formation a second exposure to the hormone in order to progress into the CFU-e stage.", "contents": "In vivo erythropoietin requirements of regenerating erythroid progenitors (BFU-e, CFU-e) in bone marrow of mice. Erythroid progenitors (B-8, B-4, CFU-e) in the femoral marrow of polycythemic mice were measured by in vitro culture assays after a single administration of BCNU or Myleran. BCNU reduced pluripotent stem cells to 40% and erythroid progenitors to less than 5% of normal. B-8, the earliest erythroid progenitors, regenerated without erythropoietin (Epo) completely within 5 days. At 14 days after BCNU, intermediate progenitors (B-4) attained 60% of their normal numbers and CFU-e attained approximately 30%. Daily injections of Epo promptly restored normal B-4 numbers and near-normal CFU-e numbers in BCNU-treated mice. After Myleran, CFU-s remained below 2% of normal for 14 days, and no regeneration of the B-8 occurred with or without daily Epo injections. The findings suggest that regneration of B-8 was dependent on cell inflow from the pluripotent stem cell compartment but was independent of the presence of Epo. Intermediate progenitors (B-4) required Epo and the presence of B-8 for complete and permanent regeneration. CFU-e were the most Epo-dependent of the three progenitors. B-4, recruited by Epo, required after their formation a second exposure to the hormone in order to progress into the CFU-e stage.", "PMID": 444655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6838", "title": "In vitro assay for erythropoietin: erythroid colony formation in methyl cellulose used for the measurement of erythropoietin in plasma.", "content": "Erythroid colony formation in methyl cellulose has been used for the measurement of erythropoietin in plasma. Livers from newborn mice less than 24 hr old were found to provide convenient target cells. Newborn mouse liver contains a substantial number of erythroid colony-forming cells (CFU-e) that have a high sensitivity to erythropoietin, the dose--response curve for erythropoietin reaching a plateau at 50 mU/ml. As little as 0.5 m/ml of the hormone is detectable. Removal of cells that adhered to glass prior to culturing doubled the number of colonies formed in the presence of erythropoietin. Addition of untreated plasmas that showed high erythropoietin titers in the exhypoxic polycythemic mice assay gave variable results. Some of the plasmas stimulated colony formation actively and in a linear fashion. However, the majority of the plasmas were toxic to the cultures. Dialyzing the plasmas for 3 days against distilled water effectively removed the toxicity. Results obtained with the method are in good agreement with the values found using the exhypoxic polycythemic mice assay.", "contents": "In vitro assay for erythropoietin: erythroid colony formation in methyl cellulose used for the measurement of erythropoietin in plasma. Erythroid colony formation in methyl cellulose has been used for the measurement of erythropoietin in plasma. Livers from newborn mice less than 24 hr old were found to provide convenient target cells. Newborn mouse liver contains a substantial number of erythroid colony-forming cells (CFU-e) that have a high sensitivity to erythropoietin, the dose--response curve for erythropoietin reaching a plateau at 50 mU/ml. As little as 0.5 m/ml of the hormone is detectable. Removal of cells that adhered to glass prior to culturing doubled the number of colonies formed in the presence of erythropoietin. Addition of untreated plasmas that showed high erythropoietin titers in the exhypoxic polycythemic mice assay gave variable results. Some of the plasmas stimulated colony formation actively and in a linear fashion. However, the majority of the plasmas were toxic to the cultures. Dialyzing the plasmas for 3 days against distilled water effectively removed the toxicity. Results obtained with the method are in good agreement with the values found using the exhypoxic polycythemic mice assay.", "PMID": 444656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6839", "title": "Lymphocyte-mediated lysis of antibody coated human red cells in the presence of human serum.", "content": "When peripheral blood lymphocytes and human red cells coated with IgG were incubated in vitro in culture medium, antibody-dependent lymphocyte-mediated lysis was observed. This lysis was markedly inhibited by the addition of purified monoclonal IgG1 (1000 microgram/ml) to the culture medium. In contrast, lysis by lymphocytes of sensitized red cells in the presence of undiluted human serum was equal to or greater than lysis in medium alone, even in the presence of IgG1 at 1000 microgram/ml, despite the high concentration of IgG in human serum (6000--19,000 microgram/ml). Serum heated to 56 degrees C for 30 min also restored lysis in the presence of IgG1. When serum was separated into three fractions by passage through a Sephadex G-200 column, the third fraction, which contained proteins with a molecular weight of less than 100,000 d (but neither of the other two fractions nor purified human albumin), restored lymphocyte-mediated lysis in the presence of IgG1.", "contents": "Lymphocyte-mediated lysis of antibody coated human red cells in the presence of human serum. When peripheral blood lymphocytes and human red cells coated with IgG were incubated in vitro in culture medium, antibody-dependent lymphocyte-mediated lysis was observed. This lysis was markedly inhibited by the addition of purified monoclonal IgG1 (1000 microgram/ml) to the culture medium. In contrast, lysis by lymphocytes of sensitized red cells in the presence of undiluted human serum was equal to or greater than lysis in medium alone, even in the presence of IgG1 at 1000 microgram/ml, despite the high concentration of IgG in human serum (6000--19,000 microgram/ml). Serum heated to 56 degrees C for 30 min also restored lysis in the presence of IgG1. When serum was separated into three fractions by passage through a Sephadex G-200 column, the third fraction, which contained proteins with a molecular weight of less than 100,000 d (but neither of the other two fractions nor purified human albumin), restored lymphocyte-mediated lysis in the presence of IgG1.", "PMID": 444657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6840", "title": "Erythropoietin-dependent primary pure erythrocytosis.", "content": "We investigated the pathogenesis of isolated erythrocytosis of 14 yr duration in a 28-yr-old man. The increase in red cell mass was attributed to increased erythropoietin production. An extensive search for recognized causes of secondary erythrocytosis was unrevealing. Family members were found to be hematologically normal. After reduction of the circulating red cell mass by 20%, erythropoietin activity nearly quadrupled, thus suggesting a normal erythropoietin response to phlebotomy. When bone marrow cells of the patient were cultured in plasma clots in the absence of added erythropoietin, endogenous erythroid colony formation was observed, a pattern previously believed to be specific for polycythemia vera bone marrow cells. Our observations suggest that the erythrocytosis in this individual is best explained by an abnormal \"servoregulatory\" mechanism of erythropoietin production. In addition, this is the first instance in which the rule that endogenous erythroid colony formation is correlated with the diagnosis of polycythemia vera has not held.", "contents": "Erythropoietin-dependent primary pure erythrocytosis. We investigated the pathogenesis of isolated erythrocytosis of 14 yr duration in a 28-yr-old man. The increase in red cell mass was attributed to increased erythropoietin production. An extensive search for recognized causes of secondary erythrocytosis was unrevealing. Family members were found to be hematologically normal. After reduction of the circulating red cell mass by 20%, erythropoietin activity nearly quadrupled, thus suggesting a normal erythropoietin response to phlebotomy. When bone marrow cells of the patient were cultured in plasma clots in the absence of added erythropoietin, endogenous erythroid colony formation was observed, a pattern previously believed to be specific for polycythemia vera bone marrow cells. Our observations suggest that the erythrocytosis in this individual is best explained by an abnormal \"servoregulatory\" mechanism of erythropoietin production. In addition, this is the first instance in which the rule that endogenous erythroid colony formation is correlated with the diagnosis of polycythemia vera has not held.", "PMID": 444659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6841", "title": "Separation of erythroid progenitor cells in mouse bone marrow by isokinetic-gradient sedimentation.", "content": "Isokinetic-gradient sedimentation employing a shallow linear gradient of Ficoll in tissue culture medium was used to isolate erythroid progenitor cells (CFU-e) from mouse bone marrow. Following gradient sedimentation, 34% of the total nucleated cells and 48% of the CFU-e applied to the gradient were recovered, and three distinct modal populations of CFU-e could be distinguished. The slowest-migrating population did not require exposure to exogenous erythropoietin in order to form erythroid colonies in vitro. The other two modal populations of CFU-e required exposure to exogenous erythropoietin for differentiation. One of these, constituting 64% of the hormone-dependent CFU-e recovered, migrated with the bulk of the marrow cells, whereas the other migrated ahead of the bulk of the marrow cells. This latter population, which contained 34% of the CFU-e, was recovered with 11% of the marrow cells, representing a twofold to threefold enrichment. BFU-e migrated more slowly than the erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e. Resedimentation studies suggested that the two erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e populations were distinct modal populations. When cells from the fastest-migrating population of erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e were cocultured with unseparated marrow cells, a further twofold to threefold enhancement of erythroid colony formation was obtained. Comparison of isokinetic-gradient sedimentation with discontinuous and continuous albumin density-gradient sedimentation revealed that isokinetic-gradient sedimentation was a more efficient method than the former and a more rapid method than the latter for isolating CFU-e from mouse bone marrow.", "contents": "Separation of erythroid progenitor cells in mouse bone marrow by isokinetic-gradient sedimentation. Isokinetic-gradient sedimentation employing a shallow linear gradient of Ficoll in tissue culture medium was used to isolate erythroid progenitor cells (CFU-e) from mouse bone marrow. Following gradient sedimentation, 34% of the total nucleated cells and 48% of the CFU-e applied to the gradient were recovered, and three distinct modal populations of CFU-e could be distinguished. The slowest-migrating population did not require exposure to exogenous erythropoietin in order to form erythroid colonies in vitro. The other two modal populations of CFU-e required exposure to exogenous erythropoietin for differentiation. One of these, constituting 64% of the hormone-dependent CFU-e recovered, migrated with the bulk of the marrow cells, whereas the other migrated ahead of the bulk of the marrow cells. This latter population, which contained 34% of the CFU-e, was recovered with 11% of the marrow cells, representing a twofold to threefold enrichment. BFU-e migrated more slowly than the erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e. Resedimentation studies suggested that the two erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e populations were distinct modal populations. When cells from the fastest-migrating population of erythropoietin-dependent CFU-e were cocultured with unseparated marrow cells, a further twofold to threefold enhancement of erythroid colony formation was obtained. Comparison of isokinetic-gradient sedimentation with discontinuous and continuous albumin density-gradient sedimentation revealed that isokinetic-gradient sedimentation was a more efficient method than the former and a more rapid method than the latter for isolating CFU-e from mouse bone marrow.", "PMID": 444660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6842", "title": "Improved survival of increased-risk myeloma patients on combined triple-alkylating-agent therapy: a study of the CALGB.", "content": "Two hundred fifty-two previously untreated evaluable patients with multiple myeloma were entered into a study testing a regimen of three intravenous alkylating agents, melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and carmustine (BCNU), given in combination (BCMP) against a regimen employing oral melphalan (MP). Both regimens included a tapering course of prednisone. Objective responses based on the Myeloma Task Force criteria were significantly more frequent in the group receiving BCMP. Survival for the entire group of BCMP-treated patients was not significantly better than that for MP-treated patients (p = 0.62). However, when the survival of the poor-risk (high tumor cell load) group of patients treated with BCMP was compared with the survival of the poor-risk (high tumor cell load) group of patients treated with MP, an improvement in survival attributable to BCMP therapy was seen (p = 0.049 and 0.02, respectively). In the good-risk (low and intermediate tumor cell load) group, BCMP treatment resulted in a trend toward poorer survival, but this did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.080 and 0.23, respectively). These results indicate that optimal therapy in myeloma may be dependent on the extent of disease at the time of first treatment. Additional studies to explore the effects of treatment intensity and duration are needed in order to design improved myeloma treatment based on the patient's extent of disease.", "contents": "Improved survival of increased-risk myeloma patients on combined triple-alkylating-agent therapy: a study of the CALGB. Two hundred fifty-two previously untreated evaluable patients with multiple myeloma were entered into a study testing a regimen of three intravenous alkylating agents, melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and carmustine (BCNU), given in combination (BCMP) against a regimen employing oral melphalan (MP). Both regimens included a tapering course of prednisone. Objective responses based on the Myeloma Task Force criteria were significantly more frequent in the group receiving BCMP. Survival for the entire group of BCMP-treated patients was not significantly better than that for MP-treated patients (p = 0.62). However, when the survival of the poor-risk (high tumor cell load) group of patients treated with BCMP was compared with the survival of the poor-risk (high tumor cell load) group of patients treated with MP, an improvement in survival attributable to BCMP therapy was seen (p = 0.049 and 0.02, respectively). In the good-risk (low and intermediate tumor cell load) group, BCMP treatment resulted in a trend toward poorer survival, but this did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.080 and 0.23, respectively). These results indicate that optimal therapy in myeloma may be dependent on the extent of disease at the time of first treatment. Additional studies to explore the effects of treatment intensity and duration are needed in order to design improved myeloma treatment based on the patient's extent of disease.", "PMID": 444661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6843", "title": "Contamination of erythropoietin by endotoxin: in vivo and in vitro effects on murine erythropoiesis.", "content": "Endotoxin was detected in all erythropoietin preparations tested and was removed from four lots, without loss of erythropoietic activity, by adsorption with limulus amebocyte lysate. Comparison of adsorbed (endotoxin-depleted) and nonadsorbed (endotoxin-containing) erythropoietin preparations demonstrated significant inhibition of CFU-e and BFU-e in vitro by nonadsorbed erythropoietin at concentrations higher than 0.25 U/ml and 2.0 U/ml, respectively. CFU-e and BFU-e were inhibited significantly by readdition in vitro of 10(-5)-10(-3) mug of endotoxin per unit of limulus-adsorbed erythropoietin. Administration of saline or 6 U of nonadsorbed or adsorbed erythropoietin twice a day for 4 days of CF1 mice resulted in reticulocyte counts of 2.1%, 9.9%, and 15.9%, respectively. Nonadsorbed erythropoietin resulted in a 29% decrease in erythropoiesis, a 42% decrease in CFU-e, and a 16% increase in granulopoiesis in the marrow, whereas adsorbed erythropoietin caused a 28% increase in erythropoiesis, no significant change in CFU-e and a 19% decrease in granulopoiesis in the marrow. Both preparations resulted in marked increases in splenic erythropoiesis and granulopoiesis. The effects of adsorbed erythropoietin are similar to those produced following stimulation of hematopoiesis by endogenous erythropoietin. Hemopoietic changes induced by nonadsorbed erythropoietin in vivo and in vitro are affected substantially by contamination of the erythropoietin preparations with endotoxin.", "contents": "Contamination of erythropoietin by endotoxin: in vivo and in vitro effects on murine erythropoiesis. Endotoxin was detected in all erythropoietin preparations tested and was removed from four lots, without loss of erythropoietic activity, by adsorption with limulus amebocyte lysate. Comparison of adsorbed (endotoxin-depleted) and nonadsorbed (endotoxin-containing) erythropoietin preparations demonstrated significant inhibition of CFU-e and BFU-e in vitro by nonadsorbed erythropoietin at concentrations higher than 0.25 U/ml and 2.0 U/ml, respectively. CFU-e and BFU-e were inhibited significantly by readdition in vitro of 10(-5)-10(-3) mug of endotoxin per unit of limulus-adsorbed erythropoietin. Administration of saline or 6 U of nonadsorbed or adsorbed erythropoietin twice a day for 4 days of CF1 mice resulted in reticulocyte counts of 2.1%, 9.9%, and 15.9%, respectively. Nonadsorbed erythropoietin resulted in a 29% decrease in erythropoiesis, a 42% decrease in CFU-e, and a 16% increase in granulopoiesis in the marrow, whereas adsorbed erythropoietin caused a 28% increase in erythropoiesis, no significant change in CFU-e and a 19% decrease in granulopoiesis in the marrow. Both preparations resulted in marked increases in splenic erythropoiesis and granulopoiesis. The effects of adsorbed erythropoietin are similar to those produced following stimulation of hematopoiesis by endogenous erythropoietin. Hemopoietic changes induced by nonadsorbed erythropoietin in vivo and in vitro are affected substantially by contamination of the erythropoietin preparations with endotoxin.", "PMID": 444662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6844", "title": "Fetal characteristics of erythrocytes in sickle cell anemia: an immunofluorescence study of individual cells.", "content": "In a group of disease states that includes sickle cell anemia (SS disease), two fetal erythrocyte markers, Hb F and i antigen, persist into adulthood. Using the technique of single-cell immunofluorescence, we determined the expression of l-i antigens and the presence of Hb F within populations of erythrocytes. Subjects tested included normal adults, normal newborns, patients with SS disease, and individuals with sickle cell trait. We classified erythrocytes reacting to anti-i as i cells and those reacting to anti-l as l cells, a terminology analogous to that used to identify erythrocytes containing increased amounts of Hb F as F cells. The expression of l and i antigens within populations of both normal and SS erythrocytes was found to be heterogeneous. The proporations of both i cells and l cells in all SS patients studied exceeded those found in normal adults, and an overall stronger-than-normal reactivity of individual SS cells to the two antibodies was observed. Proportions of F cells showed no correlation with proportions of i cells; and with double fluroescence staining for both Hb F and i, a significant proportion of each total SS red cell population was found to carry only one or the other marker. These findings confirm and clarify on a cellular level our previous demonstration, by means of quantitative hemagglutination, that there is increased expression of both l and i by whole populations of SS erythrocytes. In addition, we provide here new information on the expression of l and i within populations of normal human erythrocytes.", "contents": "Fetal characteristics of erythrocytes in sickle cell anemia: an immunofluorescence study of individual cells. In a group of disease states that includes sickle cell anemia (SS disease), two fetal erythrocyte markers, Hb F and i antigen, persist into adulthood. Using the technique of single-cell immunofluorescence, we determined the expression of l-i antigens and the presence of Hb F within populations of erythrocytes. Subjects tested included normal adults, normal newborns, patients with SS disease, and individuals with sickle cell trait. We classified erythrocytes reacting to anti-i as i cells and those reacting to anti-l as l cells, a terminology analogous to that used to identify erythrocytes containing increased amounts of Hb F as F cells. The expression of l and i antigens within populations of both normal and SS erythrocytes was found to be heterogeneous. The proporations of both i cells and l cells in all SS patients studied exceeded those found in normal adults, and an overall stronger-than-normal reactivity of individual SS cells to the two antibodies was observed. Proportions of F cells showed no correlation with proportions of i cells; and with double fluroescence staining for both Hb F and i, a significant proportion of each total SS red cell population was found to carry only one or the other marker. These findings confirm and clarify on a cellular level our previous demonstration, by means of quantitative hemagglutination, that there is increased expression of both l and i by whole populations of SS erythrocytes. In addition, we provide here new information on the expression of l and i within populations of normal human erythrocytes.", "PMID": 444663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6845", "title": "Characteristics of murine megakaryocytic colonies in vitro.", "content": "Characteristics of murine megakaryocytic colonies and their progenitor cells (CFU-m) were studied in vitro in agar gel. Colony growth required the presence of poke-weed-mitogen-stimulated spleen-conditioned medium. The number of colonies formed was linearly related to both the number of marrow cells plated and the amount of conditioned medium added. In addition, CFU-m were found in both the spleen and peripheral blood. Conditioned medium was also made without plasma, and this resulted in a cloning efficiency greater than that of conditioned medium prepared with plasma. The percentage of CFU-m in DNA synthesis was low (10%), as determined both in vivo and in vitro. Velocity sedimentation revealed that the majority of CFU-m sedimented at 4.3 mm/hr and had a tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) suicide rate of 1.5 +/- 1.5%. A shoulder on the profile of CFU-m sedimented at approximately 6 mm/hr, with a suicide rate of 79 +/- 2%. Analysis of these data indicated that the majority of CFU-m were not in cycle or were in a long G1 period. The results suggest that CFU-m is a primitive progenitor, possibly closely related to murine splenic colony-forming units (CFU-s), analogous to erythroid bursts and granulocytic colony-forming units.", "contents": "Characteristics of murine megakaryocytic colonies in vitro. Characteristics of murine megakaryocytic colonies and their progenitor cells (CFU-m) were studied in vitro in agar gel. Colony growth required the presence of poke-weed-mitogen-stimulated spleen-conditioned medium. The number of colonies formed was linearly related to both the number of marrow cells plated and the amount of conditioned medium added. In addition, CFU-m were found in both the spleen and peripheral blood. Conditioned medium was also made without plasma, and this resulted in a cloning efficiency greater than that of conditioned medium prepared with plasma. The percentage of CFU-m in DNA synthesis was low (10%), as determined both in vivo and in vitro. Velocity sedimentation revealed that the majority of CFU-m sedimented at 4.3 mm/hr and had a tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) suicide rate of 1.5 +/- 1.5%. A shoulder on the profile of CFU-m sedimented at approximately 6 mm/hr, with a suicide rate of 79 +/- 2%. Analysis of these data indicated that the majority of CFU-m were not in cycle or were in a long G1 period. The results suggest that CFU-m is a primitive progenitor, possibly closely related to murine splenic colony-forming units (CFU-s), analogous to erythroid bursts and granulocytic colony-forming units.", "PMID": 444664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6846", "title": "Coculture studies of 16 untransfused patients with aplastic anemia.", "content": "We studied the effects of peripheral blood lymphocytes from 16 untransfused patients with severe aplastic anemia (AA) of diverse etiologies on the growth of granulocyte-macrophage colonies from normal marrows. Normal lymphocytes in our system increased the number of granulocytic colonies by 31 +/- 6% (mean +/- SEM). Lymphocytes from 3 of 16 untransfused AA patients significantly inhibited growth in HLA-matched sibling marrows (-30%, -40%, and -37%; p less than 0.01). Although these results suggest that the majority of cases of AA are not mediated by a coculture-detectable immunologic mechanism, studies using lymphocytes obtained from AA patients before transfusions may detect the subpopulation whose disease is immune-mediated and who may therefore respond to immunosuppressive therapy.", "contents": "Coculture studies of 16 untransfused patients with aplastic anemia. We studied the effects of peripheral blood lymphocytes from 16 untransfused patients with severe aplastic anemia (AA) of diverse etiologies on the growth of granulocyte-macrophage colonies from normal marrows. Normal lymphocytes in our system increased the number of granulocytic colonies by 31 +/- 6% (mean +/- SEM). Lymphocytes from 3 of 16 untransfused AA patients significantly inhibited growth in HLA-matched sibling marrows (-30%, -40%, and -37%; p less than 0.01). Although these results suggest that the majority of cases of AA are not mediated by a coculture-detectable immunologic mechanism, studies using lymphocytes obtained from AA patients before transfusions may detect the subpopulation whose disease is immune-mediated and who may therefore respond to immunosuppressive therapy.", "PMID": 444665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6847", "title": "Granulocyte concentrate function during preservation: effect of temperature.", "content": "Granulocyte concentrates collected from normal donors are necessarily stored for varying intervals up to the time of transfusion. However, information regarding the fate of collected cells and the optimal mode of storage in vitro in the interval between collection and transfusion is far from complete. We studied granulocyte function during preservation of granulocyte concentrates for up to 72 hr. The initial and most consistent alteration in granulocyte function during storage was failure of random migration and chemotaxis after 24 hr of storage (50% and 61% of normal, respectively). By 48 hr the respiratory burst was decreased by 42%, whereas at 48 hr phagocytic and bactericidal activities were nearly normal. Defects in migration and respiratory burst are not due to delayed activation of these functions but to absolute decreases in maximum rates of migration and oxygen consumption. Comparison of granulocyte concentrate storage at 6 degrees C versus room temperature indicated at 24 hr an improved (p greater than 0.02) but still abnormal (p greater than 0.02) chemotactic response with 24 degrees C storage and at 48 hr no difference in migration but a slight advantage in bacterial killing at 6 degrees C storage. These studies show that severe impairment of granulocyte function occurs within 24 hr of collection by centrifugal means; consequently, granulocyte concentrates should be transfused as soon as possible after collection.", "contents": "Granulocyte concentrate function during preservation: effect of temperature. Granulocyte concentrates collected from normal donors are necessarily stored for varying intervals up to the time of transfusion. However, information regarding the fate of collected cells and the optimal mode of storage in vitro in the interval between collection and transfusion is far from complete. We studied granulocyte function during preservation of granulocyte concentrates for up to 72 hr. The initial and most consistent alteration in granulocyte function during storage was failure of random migration and chemotaxis after 24 hr of storage (50% and 61% of normal, respectively). By 48 hr the respiratory burst was decreased by 42%, whereas at 48 hr phagocytic and bactericidal activities were nearly normal. Defects in migration and respiratory burst are not due to delayed activation of these functions but to absolute decreases in maximum rates of migration and oxygen consumption. Comparison of granulocyte concentrate storage at 6 degrees C versus room temperature indicated at 24 hr an improved (p greater than 0.02) but still abnormal (p greater than 0.02) chemotactic response with 24 degrees C storage and at 48 hr no difference in migration but a slight advantage in bacterial killing at 6 degrees C storage. These studies show that severe impairment of granulocyte function occurs within 24 hr of collection by centrifugal means; consequently, granulocyte concentrates should be transfused as soon as possible after collection.", "PMID": 444666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6848", "title": "In vitro cytotoxic response to human myeloma plasma cells by peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with multiple myeloma and benign monoclonal gammopathy.", "content": "Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) from myeloma patients were studied for their capacity to lyse plasma cells from myeloma patients, benign monoclonal gammopathy (BMG) patients, and nonneoplastic disease patients. Plasma cells were isolated from bone marrow, labeled with 51Cr, and cultured with PBL isolated from patients with myeloma, BMG, or nonneoplastic disease, as well as normal individuals. PBL from patients with multiple myeloma demonstrated responses to autologous or allogeneic myeloma plasma cells. Optimum conditions for cytotoxic response included a responder-to-stimulator ratio of 1:1 and an effector-to-target ratio of 20:1. PBL from normal individuals or patients with BMG failed to demonstrate this response. However, PBL from BMG patients, but not normal individuals, could be induced to kill myeloma plasma cells (but not nonmyeloma plasma cells) by simultaneous stimulation with allogeneic lymphocytes and myeloma plasma cells.", "contents": "In vitro cytotoxic response to human myeloma plasma cells by peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with multiple myeloma and benign monoclonal gammopathy. Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) from myeloma patients were studied for their capacity to lyse plasma cells from myeloma patients, benign monoclonal gammopathy (BMG) patients, and nonneoplastic disease patients. Plasma cells were isolated from bone marrow, labeled with 51Cr, and cultured with PBL isolated from patients with myeloma, BMG, or nonneoplastic disease, as well as normal individuals. PBL from patients with multiple myeloma demonstrated responses to autologous or allogeneic myeloma plasma cells. Optimum conditions for cytotoxic response included a responder-to-stimulator ratio of 1:1 and an effector-to-target ratio of 20:1. PBL from normal individuals or patients with BMG failed to demonstrate this response. However, PBL from BMG patients, but not normal individuals, could be induced to kill myeloma plasma cells (but not nonmyeloma plasma cells) by simultaneous stimulation with allogeneic lymphocytes and myeloma plasma cells.", "PMID": 444667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6849", "title": "Transport accounts for glutathione turnover in human erythrocytes.", "content": "Human erythrocytes were incubated with 3H-glycine to label the glutathione pool. These cells were then used to determine the rate of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) transport out of erythrocytes. For 6 normal individuals, the mean transport rate was 6.7 nmole GSSG/hr/ml red cells. This transport rate would suggest a half-life of 4.7 days for the erythrocytic glutathione, which is in close agreemwnt with the observed in vivo half-life of 4 days. These data demonstrate that GSSG transport can account for the observed turnover of erythrocytic glutathione.", "contents": "Transport accounts for glutathione turnover in human erythrocytes. Human erythrocytes were incubated with 3H-glycine to label the glutathione pool. These cells were then used to determine the rate of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) transport out of erythrocytes. For 6 normal individuals, the mean transport rate was 6.7 nmole GSSG/hr/ml red cells. This transport rate would suggest a half-life of 4.7 days for the erythrocytic glutathione, which is in close agreemwnt with the observed in vivo half-life of 4 days. These data demonstrate that GSSG transport can account for the observed turnover of erythrocytic glutathione.", "PMID": 444668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6850", "title": "Erythropoietin levels in the course of a patient with erythropoietin-producing renal cell carcinoma and transplantation of this tumor in nude mice.", "content": "Erythropoietin was measured by exhypoxic polycythemic mouse method in the course of a 64-yr-old male with renal cell carcinoma associated with erythrocytosis. Serum erythropoietin fluctuated with progression of the disease. Preoperative elevated erythropoietin (0.11 U/ml, p greater than 0.05) subsided after nephrectomy and again increased with developing lung metastasis (0.1 U/ml, p greater than 0.02). Erythropoietin was markedly increased in the tumorous extracts from primary renal cell carcinoma in the kidney (0.2 U/g, p greater than 0.01) and lung metastasis (0.8 U/g, p greater than 0.01). Renal cell carcinoma from the lung metastasis was transplanted into nude mice, resulting in erythrocytosis in some of these mic. In the erythrocytotic mice, erythropoietin was elevated to levels of 0.25--0.9 U/g (p greater than 0.01) in the tumorous extracts and increased (0.67 U/ml, p greater than 0.02) in the serum. These results indicate that this renal cell carcinoma is an erythropoietin-producing tumor, and this tumor has been successfully transplanted in nude mice for the first time.", "contents": "Erythropoietin levels in the course of a patient with erythropoietin-producing renal cell carcinoma and transplantation of this tumor in nude mice. Erythropoietin was measured by exhypoxic polycythemic mouse method in the course of a 64-yr-old male with renal cell carcinoma associated with erythrocytosis. Serum erythropoietin fluctuated with progression of the disease. Preoperative elevated erythropoietin (0.11 U/ml, p greater than 0.05) subsided after nephrectomy and again increased with developing lung metastasis (0.1 U/ml, p greater than 0.02). Erythropoietin was markedly increased in the tumorous extracts from primary renal cell carcinoma in the kidney (0.2 U/g, p greater than 0.01) and lung metastasis (0.8 U/g, p greater than 0.01). Renal cell carcinoma from the lung metastasis was transplanted into nude mice, resulting in erythrocytosis in some of these mic. In the erythrocytotic mice, erythropoietin was elevated to levels of 0.25--0.9 U/g (p greater than 0.01) in the tumorous extracts and increased (0.67 U/ml, p greater than 0.02) in the serum. These results indicate that this renal cell carcinoma is an erythropoietin-producing tumor, and this tumor has been successfully transplanted in nude mice for the first time.", "PMID": 444669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6851", "title": "Principles of blood separation and component extraction in a disposable continuous-flow single-stage channel.", "content": "A single-stage disposable channel and seal that provides for leukocyte and granulocyte collection by continuous-flow cell separation (CFCS) has been designed by the IBM Corporation. This paper describes (1) the separation characteristics of whole blood as it responds to varying gravitational (G) forces and flow rates through the channel; (2) the mechanism by which the buffy coat accumulates and is extracted; (3) the efficiency of extraction; (4) those donor and procedural variables that contribute to the final yield; (5) posttransfusion increment response in patients; and (6) the functional integrity of the cells collected.", "contents": "Principles of blood separation and component extraction in a disposable continuous-flow single-stage channel. A single-stage disposable channel and seal that provides for leukocyte and granulocyte collection by continuous-flow cell separation (CFCS) has been designed by the IBM Corporation. This paper describes (1) the separation characteristics of whole blood as it responds to varying gravitational (G) forces and flow rates through the channel; (2) the mechanism by which the buffy coat accumulates and is extracted; (3) the efficiency of extraction; (4) those donor and procedural variables that contribute to the final yield; (5) posttransfusion increment response in patients; and (6) the functional integrity of the cells collected.", "PMID": 444670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6852", "title": "The storage of hard-packed red blood cells in citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) and CPD-adenine (CPDA-1).", "content": "The preservation of red cells \"hard packed\" to a hematocrit of over 80% from blood collected in citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) or CPD-adenine (CPDA-1) has been investigated. After 21 days of storage, cells that had been collected in CPD solution had consumed most or all of the available glucose and manifested markedly impaired viability after reinfusion into the normal donor. In contrast, red cells prepared from blood collected in CPDA-1, a medium containing supplementary adenine and an increased amount of glucose, maintained higher glucose and adenosine triphosphate levels and, in most instances, manifested satisfactory posttransfusion viability. We emphasize that in addition to providing longer shelf life of stored blood, CPDA-1 provides a better hard-packed red cell concentrate for transfusion at 21 days.", "contents": "The storage of hard-packed red blood cells in citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) and CPD-adenine (CPDA-1). The preservation of red cells \"hard packed\" to a hematocrit of over 80% from blood collected in citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) or CPD-adenine (CPDA-1) has been investigated. After 21 days of storage, cells that had been collected in CPD solution had consumed most or all of the available glucose and manifested markedly impaired viability after reinfusion into the normal donor. In contrast, red cells prepared from blood collected in CPDA-1, a medium containing supplementary adenine and an increased amount of glucose, maintained higher glucose and adenosine triphosphate levels and, in most instances, manifested satisfactory posttransfusion viability. We emphasize that in addition to providing longer shelf life of stored blood, CPDA-1 provides a better hard-packed red cell concentrate for transfusion at 21 days.", "PMID": 444671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6853", "title": "Factor VII Padua 2: another factor VII abnormality with defective ox brain thromboplastin activation and a complex hereditary pattern.", "content": "A new factor VII abnormality is presented. The propositus was a 9-yr-old child who presented a mild bleeding tendency characterized by epistaxis and easy bruising. The parents were not consanguineous, but they came from the same area. The laboratory features were mild prolongation of prothrombin time and P.P. test and normal partial thromboplastin and Stypven cephalin clotting times. The Thrombotest was moderately prolonged. Factor VII was 40%-50% of normal using rabbit or human brain thromboplastin, but only 13%-24% using ox brain thromboplastin. Factor VII cross-reacting material (CRM) was about 50% of normal. The father, a paternal aunt, and a paternal cousin showed similar clinical and laboratory findings. The brother of the propositus, the mother, and other members of her family showed about 50% factor VII activity and CRM and were considered to be heterozygotes for true factor VII deficiency. Similar findings were also present in the father and in the brother of the affected cousin. The defect in the propositus seems to consist of a double heterozygosity between abnormal factor VII and heterozygous factor VII true deficiency. The factor VII abnormality appears to consist of abnormal reactivity toward ox brain tissue thromboplastins and appears to be different from previously described factor VII abnormalities. The name factor VII Paudua2 is proposed for this condition.", "contents": "Factor VII Padua 2: another factor VII abnormality with defective ox brain thromboplastin activation and a complex hereditary pattern. A new factor VII abnormality is presented. The propositus was a 9-yr-old child who presented a mild bleeding tendency characterized by epistaxis and easy bruising. The parents were not consanguineous, but they came from the same area. The laboratory features were mild prolongation of prothrombin time and P.P. test and normal partial thromboplastin and Stypven cephalin clotting times. The Thrombotest was moderately prolonged. Factor VII was 40%-50% of normal using rabbit or human brain thromboplastin, but only 13%-24% using ox brain thromboplastin. Factor VII cross-reacting material (CRM) was about 50% of normal. The father, a paternal aunt, and a paternal cousin showed similar clinical and laboratory findings. The brother of the propositus, the mother, and other members of her family showed about 50% factor VII activity and CRM and were considered to be heterozygotes for true factor VII deficiency. Similar findings were also present in the father and in the brother of the affected cousin. The defect in the propositus seems to consist of a double heterozygosity between abnormal factor VII and heterozygous factor VII true deficiency. The factor VII abnormality appears to consist of abnormal reactivity toward ox brain tissue thromboplastins and appears to be different from previously described factor VII abnormalities. The name factor VII Paudua2 is proposed for this condition.", "PMID": 444674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6854", "title": "Release of platelet fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin) from alpha granules induced by thrombin or collagen; lack of requirement for plasma fibronectin in ADP-induced platelet aggregation.", "content": "Platelets lysed with Triton X-100 contain 3.44 +/- 1.27 (SD) microgram of fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin) per 10(9) platelets. Fibronectin was partially released from washed whole platelets by collagen or thrombin, and its release by collagen was inhibited by aspirin. Analysis of subcellular fractions obtained by density-gradient centrifugation of disrupted platelets indicated that fibronectin was contained in the alpha granules. Fibrinogen depleted of fibronectin (less than 2 microgram/mg) supported ADP-induced aggregation as effectively as fibrinogen contaminated with this protein, thus reinforcing the generally held view that fibrinogen itself is the necessary protein cofactor in this reaction.", "contents": "Release of platelet fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin) from alpha granules induced by thrombin or collagen; lack of requirement for plasma fibronectin in ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Platelets lysed with Triton X-100 contain 3.44 +/- 1.27 (SD) microgram of fibronectin (cold-insoluble globulin) per 10(9) platelets. Fibronectin was partially released from washed whole platelets by collagen or thrombin, and its release by collagen was inhibited by aspirin. Analysis of subcellular fractions obtained by density-gradient centrifugation of disrupted platelets indicated that fibronectin was contained in the alpha granules. Fibrinogen depleted of fibronectin (less than 2 microgram/mg) supported ADP-induced aggregation as effectively as fibrinogen contaminated with this protein, thus reinforcing the generally held view that fibrinogen itself is the necessary protein cofactor in this reaction.", "PMID": 444675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6855", "title": "Responses of the internal carotid artery to different endogenous vasoconstrictor substances.", "content": "In order to study the action of serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA), hypertensin (HT), prostaglandins A1, B1 and E2 (PGA1, PGB1 and PGE2) and vasopressin (VP), internal carotid arteries were isolated in situ from both cerebral and general circulation and perfused continuously with oxygenated Ringers' bicarbonate solution. The order of potencies of the vasoactive substances when administered intra-arterially was: 5-HT greater than HT greater than PGE2- greater than PGB1 greater than NA. The relative duration of the constrictor effects was: 5-HT less than PGA1-less than HT and PGE2 less than PGB1 and NA less than VP. The relaxation index of these substances on the vascular wall was: 5-HT less than PGE2 less than HT less than PGB1-less than NA less than PGA1 less than VP. Some of these substances, specifically PGB1, PGE2 and VP, frequently caused a residual constriction of the smooth muscle following their dilator effect. The role of these vasoactive substances in the development of vasospasm is discussed.", "contents": "Responses of the internal carotid artery to different endogenous vasoconstrictor substances. In order to study the action of serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA), hypertensin (HT), prostaglandins A1, B1 and E2 (PGA1, PGB1 and PGE2) and vasopressin (VP), internal carotid arteries were isolated in situ from both cerebral and general circulation and perfused continuously with oxygenated Ringers' bicarbonate solution. The order of potencies of the vasoactive substances when administered intra-arterially was: 5-HT greater than HT greater than PGE2- greater than PGB1 greater than NA. The relative duration of the constrictor effects was: 5-HT less than PGA1-less than HT and PGE2 less than PGB1 and NA less than VP. The relaxation index of these substances on the vascular wall was: 5-HT less than PGE2 less than HT less than PGB1-less than NA less than PGA1 less than VP. Some of these substances, specifically PGB1, PGE2 and VP, frequently caused a residual constriction of the smooth muscle following their dilator effect. The role of these vasoactive substances in the development of vasospasm is discussed.", "PMID": 444676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6856", "title": "[Relations between chromosomal findings and prognosis in acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (author's transl)].", "content": "In 48 patients with acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia, all of whom had been treated according to the protocol 7421 of the \"acute leukemia group B\", remission rates and survival times were correlated with the chromosome constitution of bone marrow cells at diagnosis. 45.8% of the patients had only normal metaphases (N-patients), 31.3% had normal and abnormal metaphases (AN-patients), and 22.9% had only abnormal metaphases (AA-patients). Chromosomal findings were unrelated to patients' age. The remission rate of the N-patients was 72.7%, of the AN-patients 60%, and of the AA-patients 36.4%. The respective median survival times were 12.5, 8.5 and 4.0 months. The difference in remission rates and survival times between patients with normal and without normal metaphases was significant. Once a remission had been obtained the prognosis was similar among the 3 groups. The better prognosis of the AA-patients in this study as compared to previous reports might be related to a more effective chemotherapy.", "contents": "[Relations between chromosomal findings and prognosis in acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (author's transl)]. In 48 patients with acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia, all of whom had been treated according to the protocol 7421 of the \"acute leukemia group B\", remission rates and survival times were correlated with the chromosome constitution of bone marrow cells at diagnosis. 45.8% of the patients had only normal metaphases (N-patients), 31.3% had normal and abnormal metaphases (AN-patients), and 22.9% had only abnormal metaphases (AA-patients). Chromosomal findings were unrelated to patients' age. The remission rate of the N-patients was 72.7%, of the AN-patients 60%, and of the AA-patients 36.4%. The respective median survival times were 12.5, 8.5 and 4.0 months. The difference in remission rates and survival times between patients with normal and without normal metaphases was significant. Once a remission had been obtained the prognosis was similar among the 3 groups. The better prognosis of the AA-patients in this study as compared to previous reports might be related to a more effective chemotherapy.", "PMID": 444677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6857", "title": "Culture of human haemopoietic cells in diffusion chambers. I. Growth of normal peripheral blood cells.", "content": "Growth of mononuclear cells from human peripheral blood from 10 normal individuals was tested in diffusion chamber culture over a period up to 17 or 21 days. After an initial decrease during the first few days an increase of the total cell number was observed with maximal values on day 13. In all individuals growth of undifferentiated blast cells, lymphocytes, plasma cells, immature and mature granulopoietic cells, macrophages, and megakaryocytes occurred. In all individuals the different cell types had similar growth patterns in diffusion chamber culture. The considerable numerical variations which were seen in the granulopoietic cells were probably due to different stem cell concentrations in the peripheral blood of the investigated individuals. The results indicate that the diffusion chamber technique is a valuable method for the detection of haemopoietic stem cells and the culture of lymphocytic cells in man.", "contents": "Culture of human haemopoietic cells in diffusion chambers. I. Growth of normal peripheral blood cells. Growth of mononuclear cells from human peripheral blood from 10 normal individuals was tested in diffusion chamber culture over a period up to 17 or 21 days. After an initial decrease during the first few days an increase of the total cell number was observed with maximal values on day 13. In all individuals growth of undifferentiated blast cells, lymphocytes, plasma cells, immature and mature granulopoietic cells, macrophages, and megakaryocytes occurred. In all individuals the different cell types had similar growth patterns in diffusion chamber culture. The considerable numerical variations which were seen in the granulopoietic cells were probably due to different stem cell concentrations in the peripheral blood of the investigated individuals. The results indicate that the diffusion chamber technique is a valuable method for the detection of haemopoietic stem cells and the culture of lymphocytic cells in man.", "PMID": 444678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6858", "title": "Intestinal absorption of cobalt and iron: mode of interaction and subcellular distribution.", "content": "1. The absorption kinetic of 59Fe-(FeCl3) and 60CO-(CoCl2) 10 min after administration of increasing doses (0.5--1,000 nmoles metal) into tied-off duodenal segments of normal and iron-deficient rats shows saturation characteristic for both metals; in iron-deficient rats the absorption of both metals was enhanced. 2. The addition of increasing amounts of cobalt to the 59Fe-containing test solutions caused a decrease of the absorption of iron. 3. The study of the time dependence of this interaction in iron-deficient rats revealed, that cobalt inhibits the release of iron from mucosal cells into the blood, whereas the uptake of iron from the lumen into the mucosal cells did not differ from the controls without administration of cobalt. 4. The subcellular distribution of 59Fe and 60 Co in mucosal cell homogenates of iron-deficient rats after ultracentrifugation on a polyvinylpyrrolidone-CsCl solution shows a similar pattern for both metals; in the presence of cobalt the subcellular distribution of 59Fe is not changed. 5. From these results the conclusion is drawn that cobalt inhibits iron absorption not by an interference with iron binding sites on or in the luminal membranes of the mucosal cells but by an interaction with the releasing process at the contraluminal side.", "contents": "Intestinal absorption of cobalt and iron: mode of interaction and subcellular distribution. 1. The absorption kinetic of 59Fe-(FeCl3) and 60CO-(CoCl2) 10 min after administration of increasing doses (0.5--1,000 nmoles metal) into tied-off duodenal segments of normal and iron-deficient rats shows saturation characteristic for both metals; in iron-deficient rats the absorption of both metals was enhanced. 2. The addition of increasing amounts of cobalt to the 59Fe-containing test solutions caused a decrease of the absorption of iron. 3. The study of the time dependence of this interaction in iron-deficient rats revealed, that cobalt inhibits the release of iron from mucosal cells into the blood, whereas the uptake of iron from the lumen into the mucosal cells did not differ from the controls without administration of cobalt. 4. The subcellular distribution of 59Fe and 60 Co in mucosal cell homogenates of iron-deficient rats after ultracentrifugation on a polyvinylpyrrolidone-CsCl solution shows a similar pattern for both metals; in the presence of cobalt the subcellular distribution of 59Fe is not changed. 5. From these results the conclusion is drawn that cobalt inhibits iron absorption not by an interference with iron binding sites on or in the luminal membranes of the mucosal cells but by an interaction with the releasing process at the contraluminal side.", "PMID": 444679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6859", "title": "Polycythemia vera: electron microscopy of the bone marrow in 10 non-treated patients. A thin section and freeze-fracture study.", "content": "Electron microscopy (thin sections and freeze-fracture replicas) was performed on the bone marrow of ten patients with Polycythemia vera prior to any treatment. In addition to a hyperplasia of all three cell lineages and the sinuses, atypias were observed in the maturing erythroblasts. These aberrations of normal development consisted mainly of deep invaginations of the nuclear envelope in proerythroblasts and conspicuous nuclear clefts in erythro- and normoblasts. In comparison with similar changes in dyserythropoietic and aplastic anemia as well as leukemia these alterations are discussed in connection with disturbances of DNA synthesis. Further atypias involved megakaryopoiesis which displayed microforms probably as an evidence for maturation arrest. These ultrastructural abnormalities and their morphological features of a neoplastic proliferation of all three cell lineages in Polycythemia vera are in good agreement with the new concept of a transformation of a pluripotent stem cell with clonal character.", "contents": "Polycythemia vera: electron microscopy of the bone marrow in 10 non-treated patients. A thin section and freeze-fracture study. Electron microscopy (thin sections and freeze-fracture replicas) was performed on the bone marrow of ten patients with Polycythemia vera prior to any treatment. In addition to a hyperplasia of all three cell lineages and the sinuses, atypias were observed in the maturing erythroblasts. These aberrations of normal development consisted mainly of deep invaginations of the nuclear envelope in proerythroblasts and conspicuous nuclear clefts in erythro- and normoblasts. In comparison with similar changes in dyserythropoietic and aplastic anemia as well as leukemia these alterations are discussed in connection with disturbances of DNA synthesis. Further atypias involved megakaryopoiesis which displayed microforms probably as an evidence for maturation arrest. These ultrastructural abnormalities and their morphological features of a neoplastic proliferation of all three cell lineages in Polycythemia vera are in good agreement with the new concept of a transformation of a pluripotent stem cell with clonal character.", "PMID": 444680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6860", "title": "[Circulating immune complexes of patients with malignant lymphomas (author's transl)].", "content": "Using the 125J-Clq deviation method according to Sobel, the polyethylenglycol precipitation test of Nydegger, and a Sepharose 6B column chromatography in a modification of MacLennan's method, circulating immune complexes (CIC) have been detected in 20--27% of patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma, in 8% of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma of low, and in 20--40% with high malignancy. CIC appeared in advanced stages of the diseases and correlated well with the activity of the disease. CIC disappeared in remissions and reappeared during reactivation of the disease. CIC were only found in patients with general symptoms, i.e. B-symptoms. The pathogenetic role of CIC in the initiation of B-symptoms and in tumor spread is still not fully explained. The antibody part of the CIC is IgG, the antigenic component has not yet been characterized.", "contents": "[Circulating immune complexes of patients with malignant lymphomas (author's transl)]. Using the 125J-Clq deviation method according to Sobel, the polyethylenglycol precipitation test of Nydegger, and a Sepharose 6B column chromatography in a modification of MacLennan's method, circulating immune complexes (CIC) have been detected in 20--27% of patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma, in 8% of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma of low, and in 20--40% with high malignancy. CIC appeared in advanced stages of the diseases and correlated well with the activity of the disease. CIC disappeared in remissions and reappeared during reactivation of the disease. CIC were only found in patients with general symptoms, i.e. B-symptoms. The pathogenetic role of CIC in the initiation of B-symptoms and in tumor spread is still not fully explained. The antibody part of the CIC is IgG, the antigenic component has not yet been characterized.", "PMID": 444682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6861", "title": "Purine metabolism in human lymphocytes.", "content": "In peripheral human blood lymphocytes the uptake and metabolism of adenine, guanine, and hypoxanthine was investigated. This was achieved by incubation of purified lymphocytes with 14C-purine bases, separation of cells from the incubation medium by a rapid filtration technique, and subsequent separation of the acid soluble material by thin-layer chromatography. No perferential uptake for one of the purine bases was observed. In all cases only traces of 14C-purine bases not added originally and labeled nucleosides could be demonstrated. Approximately 2/3 of adenine and 1/2 of guanine or hypoxanthine were converted to nucleotides. Separation of formed nucleotides showed that adenine and guanine were metabolized mainly to their corresponding nucleotides; hypoxanthine was converted to a considerable amount to adenine nucleotides and only to a small proportion into its own nucleotides. These results demonstrate the predomonance of adenine nucleotide formation in normal human lymphocytes.", "contents": "Purine metabolism in human lymphocytes. In peripheral human blood lymphocytes the uptake and metabolism of adenine, guanine, and hypoxanthine was investigated. This was achieved by incubation of purified lymphocytes with 14C-purine bases, separation of cells from the incubation medium by a rapid filtration technique, and subsequent separation of the acid soluble material by thin-layer chromatography. No perferential uptake for one of the purine bases was observed. In all cases only traces of 14C-purine bases not added originally and labeled nucleosides could be demonstrated. Approximately 2/3 of adenine and 1/2 of guanine or hypoxanthine were converted to nucleotides. Separation of formed nucleotides showed that adenine and guanine were metabolized mainly to their corresponding nucleotides; hypoxanthine was converted to a considerable amount to adenine nucleotides and only to a small proportion into its own nucleotides. These results demonstrate the predomonance of adenine nucleotide formation in normal human lymphocytes.", "PMID": 444683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6862", "title": "Functional activity of uremic erythroblast incubated in autologous and homologous plasma.", "content": "The uptake of 3H-thymidine, 3H-uridine and 3H-leucine in the erythroid precursors of patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) was examined by radioautography. The pattern of incorporation of the radioactive precursors was similar to that observed in erythroblasts of control subjects, i.e., the uptake decreased with cell maturation. CRF erythroblasts incubated with normal, homologous plasma, showed significant increase in the uptake of the radioactive precursors, compared to the activity of these cells incubated in autologous plasms, the only exception being the incorporation of 3H-leucine in the proerythroblasts, in which the increase was not statistically significant. These results suggest that the impaired function of CRF erythroblasts related to DNA, RNA and protein synthesis is due not to a defective mechanism in the cells themselves, but most probably to the effect of factors present in uremic plasma, the nature of which remains to be detected.", "contents": "Functional activity of uremic erythroblast incubated in autologous and homologous plasma. The uptake of 3H-thymidine, 3H-uridine and 3H-leucine in the erythroid precursors of patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) was examined by radioautography. The pattern of incorporation of the radioactive precursors was similar to that observed in erythroblasts of control subjects, i.e., the uptake decreased with cell maturation. CRF erythroblasts incubated with normal, homologous plasma, showed significant increase in the uptake of the radioactive precursors, compared to the activity of these cells incubated in autologous plasms, the only exception being the incorporation of 3H-leucine in the proerythroblasts, in which the increase was not statistically significant. These results suggest that the impaired function of CRF erythroblasts related to DNA, RNA and protein synthesis is due not to a defective mechanism in the cells themselves, but most probably to the effect of factors present in uremic plasma, the nature of which remains to be detected.", "PMID": 444684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6863", "title": "The silent carrier of beta thalassemia: interaction with the typical beta thalassemic trait.", "content": "The case of a girl affected by a Colley's disease of moderate severity is reported. A brother and a sister had levels of Hb F respectively of 18% and 45%. The father showed all the hematological signs of heterozygous thalassemia. The mother, however, was normal so far as osmotic fragility, red cell morphology, and Hb A2 level are concerned. In vitro hemoglobin chains biosynthesis was performed in all the subjects. Both the parents showed an alfa/non alfa ratio typical of beta thalassemia. Therefore, the mother has to be considered a \"silent\" carrier of the trait. The daughters and the son have a less severe Colley disease originating by such a double heterozygosity.", "contents": "The silent carrier of beta thalassemia: interaction with the typical beta thalassemic trait. The case of a girl affected by a Colley's disease of moderate severity is reported. A brother and a sister had levels of Hb F respectively of 18% and 45%. The father showed all the hematological signs of heterozygous thalassemia. The mother, however, was normal so far as osmotic fragility, red cell morphology, and Hb A2 level are concerned. In vitro hemoglobin chains biosynthesis was performed in all the subjects. Both the parents showed an alfa/non alfa ratio typical of beta thalassemia. Therefore, the mother has to be considered a \"silent\" carrier of the trait. The daughters and the son have a less severe Colley disease originating by such a double heterozygosity.", "PMID": 444685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6864", "title": "Leaching of lead from ceramics.", "content": "The amount of lead leached from various glazed ceramic was determined by extraction with 5% acetic acid for one hour at 85 degrees C. All commercial ceramic items, both domestic and imported, were below the FDA standard of 7 mg/liter lead in the extractant. On the other hand, almost 60% of the domestic homemade ceramic items exceeded FDA standards. Comparison with previous studies show significant reduction in lead leaching from commercial ceramic containers. However, homemade ceramic items continue to pose a potential hazard of excessive lead release.", "contents": "Leaching of lead from ceramics. The amount of lead leached from various glazed ceramic was determined by extraction with 5% acetic acid for one hour at 85 degrees C. All commercial ceramic items, both domestic and imported, were below the FDA standard of 7 mg/liter lead in the extractant. On the other hand, almost 60% of the domestic homemade ceramic items exceeded FDA standards. Comparison with previous studies show significant reduction in lead leaching from commercial ceramic containers. However, homemade ceramic items continue to pose a potential hazard of excessive lead release.", "PMID": 444687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6865", "title": "Mercury residues in tissues of dead and surviving birds fed methylmercury.", "content": "Concentrations of mercury in passerine birds fed diets containing 40 ppm methylmercury were similar in tissues of birds that died from mercury poisoning and in those that were sacrificed after half the group had died. Residues were higher in tissues of birds that died, but the differences were not statistically significant. Residue levels were highest in livers, followed by kidneys and brains. Levels of mercury were similar in breast muscle, carcass, and whole body. Mercury levels were highest in redwinged blackbirds, lowest in grackles, and intermediate in starlings and cowbirds. Mercury concentrations exceeded 20 ppm in all tissues of all species and were similar to levels reported in wild birds known to have died of mercury poisoning.", "contents": "Mercury residues in tissues of dead and surviving birds fed methylmercury. Concentrations of mercury in passerine birds fed diets containing 40 ppm methylmercury were similar in tissues of birds that died from mercury poisoning and in those that were sacrificed after half the group had died. Residues were higher in tissues of birds that died, but the differences were not statistically significant. Residue levels were highest in livers, followed by kidneys and brains. Levels of mercury were similar in breast muscle, carcass, and whole body. Mercury levels were highest in redwinged blackbirds, lowest in grackles, and intermediate in starlings and cowbirds. Mercury concentrations exceeded 20 ppm in all tissues of all species and were similar to levels reported in wild birds known to have died of mercury poisoning.", "PMID": 444688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6866", "title": "The effect of temperature on copper tolerance of Paramecium.", "content": "The copper tolerance of paramecium tetraurelia decreases with increased temperatures over the range of 12 C to 34 C. The relationship is linear and the correlation = - 0.98. The regression equation has an intercept of 16 micro M Cu++ at O C, and tolerance is reduced by 0.33 micro M for each degree increase in temperature.", "contents": "The effect of temperature on copper tolerance of Paramecium. The copper tolerance of paramecium tetraurelia decreases with increased temperatures over the range of 12 C to 34 C. The relationship is linear and the correlation = - 0.98. The regression equation has an intercept of 16 micro M Cu++ at O C, and tolerance is reduced by 0.33 micro M for each degree increase in temperature.", "PMID": 444691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6867", "title": "Alteration in the activities of three peptidases and lipase in the digestive system of the fish Channa punctatus exposed to lead nitrate.", "content": "The effect of exposure of Channa punctatus to LC(50) (6.8 mg/L) and sublethal concentration (2.8 mg/L) of lead nitrate on the activities of amino tripeptidase, glycylglycine, leucyl-l-glycine dipeptidases and lipase has been investigated. An inhibition in the activities of all the enzymes is noted after 96 hr, 15 and 30 days of treatment period. The inhibition in lipase activity is statistically insignificant in both the acute and chronic treatment cases. The experiments indicate that lead induced toxicity is more severe in chronic treatment as compared to acute treatment.", "contents": "Alteration in the activities of three peptidases and lipase in the digestive system of the fish Channa punctatus exposed to lead nitrate. The effect of exposure of Channa punctatus to LC(50) (6.8 mg/L) and sublethal concentration (2.8 mg/L) of lead nitrate on the activities of amino tripeptidase, glycylglycine, leucyl-l-glycine dipeptidases and lipase has been investigated. An inhibition in the activities of all the enzymes is noted after 96 hr, 15 and 30 days of treatment period. The inhibition in lipase activity is statistically insignificant in both the acute and chronic treatment cases. The experiments indicate that lead induced toxicity is more severe in chronic treatment as compared to acute treatment.", "PMID": 444696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6868", "title": "Screening of common bacteria capable of demethylation of methylmercuric chloride.", "content": "In summary, 21 bacteria were capable or degrading methylmercury chloride as measured by the disappearance of that species from the soil culture media. Disappearance of the methylated form was also accompanied by loss of total mercury in the culture media--probably as a result of reduction of the initial metabolite to volatile Hgo. The role of bacteria in the reduction step is not clear at this time although several authors (SUMMERS et al. 1972 and 1973; BISOGNI and LAWRENCE 1973 ) have suggested facilitated reduction rates in the presence of microorganisms.", "contents": "Screening of common bacteria capable of demethylation of methylmercuric chloride. In summary, 21 bacteria were capable or degrading methylmercury chloride as measured by the disappearance of that species from the soil culture media. Disappearance of the methylated form was also accompanied by loss of total mercury in the culture media--probably as a result of reduction of the initial metabolite to volatile Hgo. The role of bacteria in the reduction step is not clear at this time although several authors (SUMMERS et al. 1972 and 1973; BISOGNI and LAWRENCE 1973 ) have suggested facilitated reduction rates in the presence of microorganisms.", "PMID": 444703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6869", "title": "A seasonal comparison of parathion degradation on oranges in Arizona.", "content": "A study comparing the leaf residue decay of parathion wettable powder (8 lbs per acre) on oranges was carried out on neighboring plots in Arizona beginning in October, 1975, and February, 1976. While identical amounts of parathion were present immediately after spraying and the half-life of parathion was the same in both months, there was, on the average, more parathion residue during February. Graphs of parathion and paraoxon levels over time differed between months (in excess of sampling variability). This most likely was due to the daily influences of climatological variables which were obviously different in October and February.", "contents": "A seasonal comparison of parathion degradation on oranges in Arizona. A study comparing the leaf residue decay of parathion wettable powder (8 lbs per acre) on oranges was carried out on neighboring plots in Arizona beginning in October, 1975, and February, 1976. While identical amounts of parathion were present immediately after spraying and the half-life of parathion was the same in both months, there was, on the average, more parathion residue during February. Graphs of parathion and paraoxon levels over time differed between months (in excess of sampling variability). This most likely was due to the daily influences of climatological variables which were obviously different in October and February.", "PMID": 444705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6870", "title": "Degradation of o-sec-butylphenyl N-methylcarbamate (BPMC) in soil.", "content": "Disappearance rate of BPMC in paddy soils increased with the increase of BPMC concentration in soils, and in contrast, it declined wiht higher moisture content. Since the disapperance rate of BPMC in soils was retarded by addition of sodium azide, it was suggested that soil microorganism(s) participated in the degradation of BPMC. On the other hand, it was probable that organic matter content was one of the main factors participating in the disappearance of BPMC. The soil-bound residues of BPMC which were extractable by heating with 0.5 N HC1 for 15 min, were relatively low, and their percentages ranged from 2.4 to 6.6%. The bound-residues were increased by addition of calcium or magnesium sulfate.", "contents": "Degradation of o-sec-butylphenyl N-methylcarbamate (BPMC) in soil. Disappearance rate of BPMC in paddy soils increased with the increase of BPMC concentration in soils, and in contrast, it declined wiht higher moisture content. Since the disapperance rate of BPMC in soils was retarded by addition of sodium azide, it was suggested that soil microorganism(s) participated in the degradation of BPMC. On the other hand, it was probable that organic matter content was one of the main factors participating in the disappearance of BPMC. The soil-bound residues of BPMC which were extractable by heating with 0.5 N HC1 for 15 min, were relatively low, and their percentages ranged from 2.4 to 6.6%. The bound-residues were increased by addition of calcium or magnesium sulfate.", "PMID": 444706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6871", "title": "Effects of No. 2 fuel oil on hatchability of marine and estuarine bird eggs.", "content": "Eggs of Louisiana herons, sandwich terns, and laughing gulls were oiled with either 0, 5, or 20 microliter of No. 2 fuel oil in the field and in the laboratory. After 5 days of natural incubation, field-oiled and control eggs were opened and embryonic mortality was determined. No. 2 fuel oil produced 61% mortality in Louisiana heron eggs, 56% in sandwich tern eggs, and 83% in laughing gull eggs. Hatching success of artificially incubated, oiled eggs appeared to be lower than in control eggs. However, stress during shipment to the laboratory and problems within the incubator probably contributed to reduced hatchability in both groups.", "contents": "Effects of No. 2 fuel oil on hatchability of marine and estuarine bird eggs. Eggs of Louisiana herons, sandwich terns, and laughing gulls were oiled with either 0, 5, or 20 microliter of No. 2 fuel oil in the field and in the laboratory. After 5 days of natural incubation, field-oiled and control eggs were opened and embryonic mortality was determined. No. 2 fuel oil produced 61% mortality in Louisiana heron eggs, 56% in sandwich tern eggs, and 83% in laughing gull eggs. Hatching success of artificially incubated, oiled eggs appeared to be lower than in control eggs. However, stress during shipment to the laboratory and problems within the incubator probably contributed to reduced hatchability in both groups.", "PMID": 444711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6872", "title": "Bioavailability of lead in rats fed \"human\" diets.", "content": "The bioavailability of lead was studied in rats fed various baby foods (Babymix-turkey, Babymix-vegetables, Frutolino-fruit, Frutamix-bananas, Babyron-S-26, Truefood), cow's milk, bread, liver and standard rat diet. Lead absorption was determined by measuring the whole body retention of 203Pb 6 days after a single oral application. Highest absorption values ranging from 17 to 20% were obtained in animals fed cow's milk and fruit foods. Rats on other \"human\" diets absorbed between 3 and 8% of the radioactive lead dose. Only in animals on rat diet lead absorption was below 1%. It is concluded that rats fed \"human\" diets show absorption values similar to those in humans. This might indicate that the bioavailability of lead is primarily dependent on dietary habits. This experimental model, if confirmed by further work, might be useful for obtaining preliminary data on the bioavailability of metals from various foods.", "contents": "Bioavailability of lead in rats fed \"human\" diets. The bioavailability of lead was studied in rats fed various baby foods (Babymix-turkey, Babymix-vegetables, Frutolino-fruit, Frutamix-bananas, Babyron-S-26, Truefood), cow's milk, bread, liver and standard rat diet. Lead absorption was determined by measuring the whole body retention of 203Pb 6 days after a single oral application. Highest absorption values ranging from 17 to 20% were obtained in animals fed cow's milk and fruit foods. Rats on other \"human\" diets absorbed between 3 and 8% of the radioactive lead dose. Only in animals on rat diet lead absorption was below 1%. It is concluded that rats fed \"human\" diets show absorption values similar to those in humans. This might indicate that the bioavailability of lead is primarily dependent on dietary habits. This experimental model, if confirmed by further work, might be useful for obtaining preliminary data on the bioavailability of metals from various foods.", "PMID": 444721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6873", "title": "Bioelectrical activity of isolated ventral nerve cords of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana L., treated with toxaphene.", "content": "Effects of toxaphene were studied with the ventral nerve cord (VNC) of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana (L). Intense forms of activity were observed in isolated nerve preparations treated with toxaphene. Latent periods between introduction of toxaphene and onset of intense activity decreased as the concentrations were increased.", "contents": "Bioelectrical activity of isolated ventral nerve cords of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana L., treated with toxaphene. Effects of toxaphene were studied with the ventral nerve cord (VNC) of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana (L). Intense forms of activity were observed in isolated nerve preparations treated with toxaphene. Latent periods between introduction of toxaphene and onset of intense activity decreased as the concentrations were increased.", "PMID": 444750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6874", "title": "Heavy metal levels in feathers of wild turkeys from Virginia.", "content": "Levels of lead, cadmium, nickel, and zinc were determined in feathers of 175 wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopava) shot by hunters in 19 Virginia counties in 2 physiographic regions. Lead and nickel levels did not vary by county, region, sex, or age. Zinc and cadmium levels were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in adult turkeys.", "contents": "Heavy metal levels in feathers of wild turkeys from Virginia. Levels of lead, cadmium, nickel, and zinc were determined in feathers of 175 wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopava) shot by hunters in 19 Virginia counties in 2 physiographic regions. Lead and nickel levels did not vary by county, region, sex, or age. Zinc and cadmium levels were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in adult turkeys.", "PMID": 444755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6875", "title": "Familial Dupuytren's contracture with predominantly female expression.", "content": "A family pedigree is described in which a strong Dupuytren's trait is manifest predominantly on the female side. The genetic aspects of the condition are reviewed and the importance of gene penetrance is stressed.", "contents": "Familial Dupuytren's contracture with predominantly female expression. A family pedigree is described in which a strong Dupuytren's trait is manifest predominantly on the female side. The genetic aspects of the condition are reviewed and the importance of gene penetrance is stressed.", "PMID": 444771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6876", "title": "Surgical treatment of induratio penis plastica (Peyronie's disease) with a corpus cavernosum graft.", "content": "Four patients with induratio penis plastica, involving the corpus cavernosum, have been treated by excision of the affected tissue and filling of the defect by a transplant of corpus cavernosum bulbi urethrae. Cavernosograms and a histological study indicate that the operative results were good, but the case histories stress the need of extreme care in the selection of patients.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of induratio penis plastica (Peyronie's disease) with a corpus cavernosum graft. Four patients with induratio penis plastica, involving the corpus cavernosum, have been treated by excision of the affected tissue and filling of the defect by a transplant of corpus cavernosum bulbi urethrae. Cavernosograms and a histological study indicate that the operative results were good, but the case histories stress the need of extreme care in the selection of patients.", "PMID": 444774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6877", "title": "Argon laser treatment of decorative tattoos.", "content": "The argon laser shows promise as an effective clinical method for the treatment of tattoos. Although clinical follow-up has been limited to 3 years and less in a series of 30 patients, the preliminary results are sufficiently optimistic to recommend further clinical use of the argon laser for such treatment.", "contents": "Argon laser treatment of decorative tattoos. The argon laser shows promise as an effective clinical method for the treatment of tattoos. Although clinical follow-up has been limited to 3 years and less in a series of 30 patients, the preliminary results are sufficiently optimistic to recommend further clinical use of the argon laser for such treatment.", "PMID": 444777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6878", "title": "A comparison of social workers and psychiatrists in evaluating parasuicide.", "content": "Sixty parasuicide patients admitted to medical wards were assessed by social workers prior to routine psychiatric assessment. Both disciplines completed a rating schedule. The social workers' and psychiatrists' rating schedule responses were compared, and their decisions were examined against further information obtained by a research psychiatrist, which included standardized mental state assessment. Overall the results show that social workers can safely and reliably assess these patients, but they are more cautious. A management approach involving social workers assessors of parasuicide patients is discussed.", "contents": "A comparison of social workers and psychiatrists in evaluating parasuicide. Sixty parasuicide patients admitted to medical wards were assessed by social workers prior to routine psychiatric assessment. Both disciplines completed a rating schedule. The social workers' and psychiatrists' rating schedule responses were compared, and their decisions were examined against further information obtained by a research psychiatrist, which included standardized mental state assessment. Overall the results show that social workers can safely and reliably assess these patients, but they are more cautious. A management approach involving social workers assessors of parasuicide patients is discussed.", "PMID": 444783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6879", "title": "Agoraphobia: a follow-up study four years after treatment.", "content": "Seventy agoraphobic out-patients were followed up prospectively for four years after treatment; the improvements manifested during treatment were found to be maintained and partly augmented. At the end of follow-up, 75% of the patients had improved on the main phobia. No clear relationship was found between external control, social anxiety, depression and duration of the complaint at the beginning of treatment on the one hand and the results at follow-up on the other. The disorders remained phobic, no other neurotic symptoms having developed during the follow-up period.", "contents": "Agoraphobia: a follow-up study four years after treatment. Seventy agoraphobic out-patients were followed up prospectively for four years after treatment; the improvements manifested during treatment were found to be maintained and partly augmented. At the end of follow-up, 75% of the patients had improved on the main phobia. No clear relationship was found between external control, social anxiety, depression and duration of the complaint at the beginning of treatment on the one hand and the results at follow-up on the other. The disorders remained phobic, no other neurotic symptoms having developed during the follow-up period.", "PMID": 444784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6880", "title": "The reconstruction of schizophrenic speech.", "content": "A suggestion that schizophrenic speech may be harder to understand than normal speech was tested by a technique of reconstruction. Ten schizophrenic and ten normal passages were typed onto cards, one sentence per card. Each passage was then presented with the sentences in random order, and students were asked to reconstruct what they believed was the original order. Fewer correct strings of three or more sentences were achieved for the schizophrenic material than the normal material. It is concluded that there is a detectable abnormality in the structure of schizophrenic speech, but that it stems from the relationship between sentences rather than the content of individual sentences.", "contents": "The reconstruction of schizophrenic speech. A suggestion that schizophrenic speech may be harder to understand than normal speech was tested by a technique of reconstruction. Ten schizophrenic and ten normal passages were typed onto cards, one sentence per card. Each passage was then presented with the sentences in random order, and students were asked to reconstruct what they believed was the original order. Fewer correct strings of three or more sentences were achieved for the schizophrenic material than the normal material. It is concluded that there is a detectable abnormality in the structure of schizophrenic speech, but that it stems from the relationship between sentences rather than the content of individual sentences.", "PMID": 444785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6881", "title": "Monoamine oxidase (MAO) of platelets, plasma, lymphocytes and granulocytes in schizophrenia.", "content": "Monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels in plasma, platelets, lymphocytes and granulocytes have been compared in schizophrenics and controls using three substrates. No significant difference was found between MAO levels in controls and the schizophrenic group as a whole, but platelets and lymphocytes of the latter (tyramine or benzylamine substrate) showed greater variation and in some cases higher values than controls, irrespective of treatment. Schizophrenics who experienced auditory hallucinations had significantly lower MAO levels in lymphocytes and platelets than those who did not.", "contents": "Monoamine oxidase (MAO) of platelets, plasma, lymphocytes and granulocytes in schizophrenia. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels in plasma, platelets, lymphocytes and granulocytes have been compared in schizophrenics and controls using three substrates. No significant difference was found between MAO levels in controls and the schizophrenic group as a whole, but platelets and lymphocytes of the latter (tyramine or benzylamine substrate) showed greater variation and in some cases higher values than controls, irrespective of treatment. Schizophrenics who experienced auditory hallucinations had significantly lower MAO levels in lymphocytes and platelets than those who did not.", "PMID": 444786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6882", "title": "Platelet MAO activity and evoked potentials in the identification of subjects biologically at risk for psychiatric disorders.", "content": "Individuals potentially at risk for psychiatric disorders were identified by screening 375 college student volunteers for low platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity levels. The lower and upper 10% in MAO activity were administered a personal and family history interview, psychological tests and average evoked response (AER) electroencephalographic procedures. Results indicated that low MAO males and females were socially more active, had more psychiatric contact, and had relatives who were psychiatrically more disturbed than high MAO subjects. Low MAO males had more convictions, experimented more with illegal drugs and had elevated scores on the MMPI. AER criteria further defined a high risk group of low MAO-AER augmenters which had more suicides among their relatives and higher scores on the schizophrenia scale of the MMPI.", "contents": "Platelet MAO activity and evoked potentials in the identification of subjects biologically at risk for psychiatric disorders. Individuals potentially at risk for psychiatric disorders were identified by screening 375 college student volunteers for low platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity levels. The lower and upper 10% in MAO activity were administered a personal and family history interview, psychological tests and average evoked response (AER) electroencephalographic procedures. Results indicated that low MAO males and females were socially more active, had more psychiatric contact, and had relatives who were psychiatrically more disturbed than high MAO subjects. Low MAO males had more convictions, experimented more with illegal drugs and had elevated scores on the MMPI. AER criteria further defined a high risk group of low MAO-AER augmenters which had more suicides among their relatives and higher scores on the schizophrenia scale of the MMPI.", "PMID": 444787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6883", "title": "A new depression scale designed to be sensitive to change.", "content": "The construction of a depression rating scale designed to be particularly sensitive to treatment effects is described. Ratings of 54 English and 52 Swedish patients on a 65 item comprehensive psychopathology scale were used to identify the 17 most commonly occurring symptoms in primary depressive illness in the combined sample. Ratings on these 17 items for 64 patients participating in studies of four different antidepressant drugs were used to create a depression scale consisting of the 10 items which showed the largest changes with treatment and the highest correlation to overall change. The inner-rater reliability of the new depression scale was high. Scores on the scale correlated significantly with scores on a standard rating scale for depression, the Hamilton Rating Scale (HRS), indicating its validity as a general severity estimate. Its capacity to differentiate between responders and non-responders to antidepressant treatment was better than the HRS, indicating greater sensitivity to change. The practical and ethical implications in terms of smaller sample sizes in clinical trials are discussed.", "contents": "A new depression scale designed to be sensitive to change. The construction of a depression rating scale designed to be particularly sensitive to treatment effects is described. Ratings of 54 English and 52 Swedish patients on a 65 item comprehensive psychopathology scale were used to identify the 17 most commonly occurring symptoms in primary depressive illness in the combined sample. Ratings on these 17 items for 64 patients participating in studies of four different antidepressant drugs were used to create a depression scale consisting of the 10 items which showed the largest changes with treatment and the highest correlation to overall change. The inner-rater reliability of the new depression scale was high. Scores on the scale correlated significantly with scores on a standard rating scale for depression, the Hamilton Rating Scale (HRS), indicating its validity as a general severity estimate. Its capacity to differentiate between responders and non-responders to antidepressant treatment was better than the HRS, indicating greater sensitivity to change. The practical and ethical implications in terms of smaller sample sizes in clinical trials are discussed.", "PMID": 444788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6884", "title": "Clinical response and tricyclic plasma levels during treatment with clomipramine.", "content": "Fifty depressed in-patients at two psychiatric units, one in Italy the other in England, were treated with clomipramine, either orally, or intravenously and orally. A comparison of clinical response with plasma levels of clomipramine and its metabolite, desmethylclomipramine, showed clear relationships especially in the case of desmethylclomipramine. In the intravenously-treated group this was linear, in the orally-treated group it was curvilinear. Plasma levels of desmethylclomipramine and administered clomipramine correlate highly. These findings, together with the fact that significant clinical improvement was observed in only 55% of the patients, suggest that titration of the administered dose to obtain more effective plasma levels of the metabolite might improve the clinical response to the drug in some patients.", "contents": "Clinical response and tricyclic plasma levels during treatment with clomipramine. Fifty depressed in-patients at two psychiatric units, one in Italy the other in England, were treated with clomipramine, either orally, or intravenously and orally. A comparison of clinical response with plasma levels of clomipramine and its metabolite, desmethylclomipramine, showed clear relationships especially in the case of desmethylclomipramine. In the intravenously-treated group this was linear, in the orally-treated group it was curvilinear. Plasma levels of desmethylclomipramine and administered clomipramine correlate highly. These findings, together with the fact that significant clinical improvement was observed in only 55% of the patients, suggest that titration of the administered dose to obtain more effective plasma levels of the metabolite might improve the clinical response to the drug in some patients.", "PMID": 444789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6885", "title": "Psychiatric morbidity and pregnancy: a controlled study of 263 semi-rural Ugandan women.", "content": "Two hundred and sixty three pregnant Ugandan women and 89 non-pregnant, non-puerperal women were interviewed using a semi-structured psychiatric questionnaire. Comparison of psychiatric morbidity between the control group and matched pregnant women showed an increased frequency of psychiatric morbidity in pregnant women. Separated pregnant women were particularly at risk. No association was found between antenatal psychiatric morbidity and age, gravidity, number of co-wives or the duration of the pregnancy.", "contents": "Psychiatric morbidity and pregnancy: a controlled study of 263 semi-rural Ugandan women. Two hundred and sixty three pregnant Ugandan women and 89 non-pregnant, non-puerperal women were interviewed using a semi-structured psychiatric questionnaire. Comparison of psychiatric morbidity between the control group and matched pregnant women showed an increased frequency of psychiatric morbidity in pregnant women. Separated pregnant women were particularly at risk. No association was found between antenatal psychiatric morbidity and age, gravidity, number of co-wives or the duration of the pregnancy.", "PMID": 444790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6886", "title": "A comparative study of parents of emotionally disturbed and normal children.", "content": "Parents of fifty children attending a child guidance clinic (clinic parents) were studied and compared with the parents of non-referred children matched on relevant parameters (control parents). The clinic parents differed significantly from the control parents on certain variables: presence of psychiatric morbidity in clinic mothers, disciplinary techniques used, attitude towards their own children and the marital relationship. There were no significant differences between the parents of the two groups in their attitudes towards their own parents. Alcoholism and sociopathy were not common among clinic fathers.", "contents": "A comparative study of parents of emotionally disturbed and normal children. Parents of fifty children attending a child guidance clinic (clinic parents) were studied and compared with the parents of non-referred children matched on relevant parameters (control parents). The clinic parents differed significantly from the control parents on certain variables: presence of psychiatric morbidity in clinic mothers, disciplinary techniques used, attitude towards their own children and the marital relationship. There were no significant differences between the parents of the two groups in their attitudes towards their own parents. Alcoholism and sociopathy were not common among clinic fathers.", "PMID": 444791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6887", "title": "A method for monitoring the treatment of schizophrenics in the community.", "content": "A trial was carried out over twelve months of a method for monitoring the care of a large number of schizophrenic patients in the community. The method has been demonstrated to be practical in use, economical of resources and potentially relevant to a number of chronic disorders.", "contents": "A method for monitoring the treatment of schizophrenics in the community. A trial was carried out over twelve months of a method for monitoring the care of a large number of schizophrenic patients in the community. The method has been demonstrated to be practical in use, economical of resources and potentially relevant to a number of chronic disorders.", "PMID": 444792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6888", "title": "Use of hospital services by chronic schizophrenics in the community.", "content": "A sample of chronic schizophrenic patients from an urban community, living outside hospital, were reassessed on the Present State Examination one year after a first examination. During this time their use of psychiatric hospital services was recorded. One hundred and two patients had satisfactory interviews on both occasions. These could be divided into Heavy, Medium and Light users of services, the numbers being 8, 14 and 63 respectively, while 17 only saw their general practitioners or had no treatment. A ranking of the sample in terms of severity showed no correlation with use of these services; second PSE scores were not significantly different from the first. Heavy and Medium users of hospital services were in contact with Social Services to a significantly greater extent than other patients.", "contents": "Use of hospital services by chronic schizophrenics in the community. A sample of chronic schizophrenic patients from an urban community, living outside hospital, were reassessed on the Present State Examination one year after a first examination. During this time their use of psychiatric hospital services was recorded. One hundred and two patients had satisfactory interviews on both occasions. These could be divided into Heavy, Medium and Light users of services, the numbers being 8, 14 and 63 respectively, while 17 only saw their general practitioners or had no treatment. A ranking of the sample in terms of severity showed no correlation with use of these services; second PSE scores were not significantly different from the first. Heavy and Medium users of hospital services were in contact with Social Services to a significantly greater extent than other patients.", "PMID": 444793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6889", "title": "Prediction of successful rehabilitation by nurse rating scale.", "content": "The predictive value of the NOSIE, a ward behaviour rating scale, was investigated in a group of long-stay patients. After a follow-up period of 3 1/2 years, it was found that all NOSIE scales differentiated continuing in-patients from those discharged. Regression analysis showed that age and florid psychoticism carried most predictive weight. These findings and the value of reliable rating scales for rehabilitation purposes are discussed.", "contents": "Prediction of successful rehabilitation by nurse rating scale. The predictive value of the NOSIE, a ward behaviour rating scale, was investigated in a group of long-stay patients. After a follow-up period of 3 1/2 years, it was found that all NOSIE scales differentiated continuing in-patients from those discharged. Regression analysis showed that age and florid psychoticism carried most predictive weight. These findings and the value of reliable rating scales for rehabilitation purposes are discussed.", "PMID": 444794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6890", "title": "The effect of some incentives on the work performance of psychiatric patients at a rehabilitation workshop.", "content": "Five experimental incentive conditions were compared with a control condition in terms of their effect on work performance. Each of the six groups studied had a standard four-week baseline period (Block 1) consisting of an attendance payment, followed by a four-week experimental period (Block 2). Whereas all patients in the Control and Feedback groups produced less during Block 2, only two patients in the remaining four groups failed to improve. An analysis of variance indicated that Social Reinforcement, Piece Rate, Piece Rate plus Social Reinforcement, and Pay Increase plus Social Reinforcement were significantly superior to the Control and Feedback conditions.", "contents": "The effect of some incentives on the work performance of psychiatric patients at a rehabilitation workshop. Five experimental incentive conditions were compared with a control condition in terms of their effect on work performance. Each of the six groups studied had a standard four-week baseline period (Block 1) consisting of an attendance payment, followed by a four-week experimental period (Block 2). Whereas all patients in the Control and Feedback groups produced less during Block 2, only two patients in the remaining four groups failed to improve. An analysis of variance indicated that Social Reinforcement, Piece Rate, Piece Rate plus Social Reinforcement, and Pay Increase plus Social Reinforcement were significantly superior to the Control and Feedback conditions.", "PMID": 444795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6891", "title": "Gains, losses and lateral differences in the hearing of schizophrenic patients.", "content": "Schizophrenic patients, whether newly admitted to hospital or institutionalized, exhibited ear differences in absolute threshold. Right ear thresholds were superior to left ear thresholds especially at frequencies above 2 kHz, but deteriorated in the course of the day or as a result of repeated testing. These effects were attributed to the dynamics of left hemisphere processes which in schizophrenia appear susceptible to inhibition and fatigue, effects that may be endocrine related. Relative to control subjects institutionalized schizophrenic patients showed superior hearing below 1 kHz and inferior hearing above 2 kHz.", "contents": "Gains, losses and lateral differences in the hearing of schizophrenic patients. Schizophrenic patients, whether newly admitted to hospital or institutionalized, exhibited ear differences in absolute threshold. Right ear thresholds were superior to left ear thresholds especially at frequencies above 2 kHz, but deteriorated in the course of the day or as a result of repeated testing. These effects were attributed to the dynamics of left hemisphere processes which in schizophrenia appear susceptible to inhibition and fatigue, effects that may be endocrine related. Relative to control subjects institutionalized schizophrenic patients showed superior hearing below 1 kHz and inferior hearing above 2 kHz.", "PMID": 444801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6892", "title": "Progressive changes in energy cost during a three-hour race-walk exercise.", "content": "Twenty experienced race-walkers were exercised in a controlled routine walking at 11.6 km/hr continuously for 3 hr, alternately on a treadmill and a cinder track. Analyses of expired air samples taken at 30 min intervals were used to calculate average R.Q. and energy expenditure. R.Q. was found to decrease progressively from 0.92 to 0.66 in the 3 hr and remained at this level 30 min later. The mean energy cost rose from 46.2 to 55.4 kJ/min or 24.7 to 29.7 kJ/min.m2. The results indicate that this group probably experienced an elevation of aerobic activity as they utilized progressively more fat to satisfy metabolic demands and that R.Q. may be a good indicator for determining recovery after severe long duration exercise.", "contents": "Progressive changes in energy cost during a three-hour race-walk exercise. Twenty experienced race-walkers were exercised in a controlled routine walking at 11.6 km/hr continuously for 3 hr, alternately on a treadmill and a cinder track. Analyses of expired air samples taken at 30 min intervals were used to calculate average R.Q. and energy expenditure. R.Q. was found to decrease progressively from 0.92 to 0.66 in the 3 hr and remained at this level 30 min later. The mean energy cost rose from 46.2 to 55.4 kJ/min or 24.7 to 29.7 kJ/min.m2. The results indicate that this group probably experienced an elevation of aerobic activity as they utilized progressively more fat to satisfy metabolic demands and that R.Q. may be a good indicator for determining recovery after severe long duration exercise.", "PMID": 444803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6893", "title": "Human endurance--mind or muscle?", "content": "Two investigations have been carried out. The first studied the effects of autonomic blockade on the cardiovascular response to a step test, a 50% maximum isometric grip test and a Valsalva manoeuvre: the step test was of 5 minutes duration and the other two for as long as possible. beta adrenergic blockade by propanolol diminished the blood pressure and pulse rate response to both the step test and isometric grip. The pulse rate response to the step test was also affected by cholinergic blockade with atropine. The response to the Valsalva test showed a cholinergic blockade effect of pulse rate alone and a blood pressure response alone on alpha adrenergic blockade by phenoxybenzamine. The second studied psychological stressing on physical and mental ability. A potential 'punishment' situation increased the blood pressure and pulse rate response to isometric grip while decreasing the time for which it could be maintained. A potential 'reward' situation increased both the maximum grip and the time for which 50% grip could be maintained. It is concluded that psychological factors can affect performance dependant on whether the situation is perceived as one of 'reward' or 'punishment'. A factor in the mediation of the adverse response is an inappropriate response of the autonomic nervous system.", "contents": "Human endurance--mind or muscle? Two investigations have been carried out. The first studied the effects of autonomic blockade on the cardiovascular response to a step test, a 50% maximum isometric grip test and a Valsalva manoeuvre: the step test was of 5 minutes duration and the other two for as long as possible. beta adrenergic blockade by propanolol diminished the blood pressure and pulse rate response to both the step test and isometric grip. The pulse rate response to the step test was also affected by cholinergic blockade with atropine. The response to the Valsalva test showed a cholinergic blockade effect of pulse rate alone and a blood pressure response alone on alpha adrenergic blockade by phenoxybenzamine. The second studied psychological stressing on physical and mental ability. A potential 'punishment' situation increased the blood pressure and pulse rate response to isometric grip while decreasing the time for which it could be maintained. A potential 'reward' situation increased both the maximum grip and the time for which 50% grip could be maintained. It is concluded that psychological factors can affect performance dependant on whether the situation is perceived as one of 'reward' or 'punishment'. A factor in the mediation of the adverse response is an inappropriate response of the autonomic nervous system.", "PMID": 444804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6894", "title": "Chronic overuse injuries of the piso-triquetral joint in racquet game players.", "content": "Three squash racquets and one badminton player presented with pain in the base of the hypothenar eminence, due to minor degrees of subluxation of the pisiform bone. Two of them also showed chondromalacia of the articular cartilage of the pisotriquetral joint. All four patients were relieved by excision of the pisiform bone and had returned to their normal daily and sporting activities within three months of their operation.", "contents": "Chronic overuse injuries of the piso-triquetral joint in racquet game players. Three squash racquets and one badminton player presented with pain in the base of the hypothenar eminence, due to minor degrees of subluxation of the pisiform bone. Two of them also showed chondromalacia of the articular cartilage of the pisotriquetral joint. All four patients were relieved by excision of the pisiform bone and had returned to their normal daily and sporting activities within three months of their operation.", "PMID": 444806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6895", "title": "Cognitive aspects of performance.", "content": "The study of cognitive structures and processes in the control of skilled performance is considered and reviewed with special reference to a proposed hierarchical system incorporating levels of motor integration. Cognitive styles and dispositions of general behaviour are suggested as factors which may determine performance levels. The relative importance of these personal factors and stronger personality traits in accounting for variance in performance is considered in the light of a critique of the current interactional controversy.", "contents": "Cognitive aspects of performance. The study of cognitive structures and processes in the control of skilled performance is considered and reviewed with special reference to a proposed hierarchical system incorporating levels of motor integration. Cognitive styles and dispositions of general behaviour are suggested as factors which may determine performance levels. The relative importance of these personal factors and stronger personality traits in accounting for variance in performance is considered in the light of a critique of the current interactional controversy.", "PMID": 444808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6896", "title": "Exercise prescription--North American experience.", "content": "The principles of exercise prescription are reviewed with respect to North American experience. The required regimen must be safe, therapeutically effective, and ensure a high rate of compliance. Precautions to increase the safety of exercise are discussed. Cardiac emergencies are sufficiently rare events (less than 1 in 200,000 hours even in post-coronary classes) that the need for immediate medical supervision of a well-designed programme can be questioned. The prime determinant of the response to training is the intensity of effort relative to the individual's initial fitness. Post-coronary patients often have a great potential for training due to their previous inactivity, but this will not be realised if the prescribed exercise is of insufficient intensity. Exercise programmes are plagued by a high 'drop-out' rate; 50% of normal middle-aged volunteers are lost in 6 months, and even with post-coronary programmes losses can be 60--70% over 4 years. Simple suggestions are made for improving compliance with the required exercise prescription.", "contents": "Exercise prescription--North American experience. The principles of exercise prescription are reviewed with respect to North American experience. The required regimen must be safe, therapeutically effective, and ensure a high rate of compliance. Precautions to increase the safety of exercise are discussed. Cardiac emergencies are sufficiently rare events (less than 1 in 200,000 hours even in post-coronary classes) that the need for immediate medical supervision of a well-designed programme can be questioned. The prime determinant of the response to training is the intensity of effort relative to the individual's initial fitness. Post-coronary patients often have a great potential for training due to their previous inactivity, but this will not be realised if the prescribed exercise is of insufficient intensity. Exercise programmes are plagued by a high 'drop-out' rate; 50% of normal middle-aged volunteers are lost in 6 months, and even with post-coronary programmes losses can be 60--70% over 4 years. Simple suggestions are made for improving compliance with the required exercise prescription.", "PMID": 444812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6897", "title": "The radiological diagnosis of polyps in the presence of diverticular disease.", "content": "The double contrast barium enemas in 20 patients with endoscopically proven polyps within a segment of diverticular disease have been reviewed. Ninety per cent of the polyps were detected. The increased density sign and negative shadow filling defect proved valuable in their detection. Antispasmodics are advised to distend the sigmoid and allow double contrast views to be obtained. With severe diverticular changes it may be impossible to exclude a polyp, and if the patient complains of rectal bleeding, endoscopy is indicated.", "contents": "The radiological diagnosis of polyps in the presence of diverticular disease. The double contrast barium enemas in 20 patients with endoscopically proven polyps within a segment of diverticular disease have been reviewed. Ninety per cent of the polyps were detected. The increased density sign and negative shadow filling defect proved valuable in their detection. Antispasmodics are advised to distend the sigmoid and allow double contrast views to be obtained. With severe diverticular changes it may be impossible to exclude a polyp, and if the patient complains of rectal bleeding, endoscopy is indicated.", "PMID": 444816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6898", "title": "Magnification renal arteriography.", "content": "Magnification selective renal arteriograms were performed on 24 patients, 12 of whom were hypertensive, and compared with non-magnification arteriograms by two observers independently. The magnification angiograms were performed on a Siemens Microfocus Bi 125/3/50 RG tube with a 0.1 mm focal spot. Of the 24 patients examined, information crucial to the diagnosis was found only on the magnification films in three patients (12.5%). Extra information compared with the nonmagnification films was found in the magnification films in 12 patients (50%). No additional information was discovered in the remaining nine patients (37.5%). The magnification angiograms enabled the interlobular vessels to be visualized--this was not possible on the non-magnification films. Against the additional information gained must be weighed the disadvantages of magnification arteriography which include increased radiation dose and lengthening of procedure time plus additional injections of contrast. In conclusion, there is a place for magnification renal arteriography and the advantages seem to outweigh the disadvantages.", "contents": "Magnification renal arteriography. Magnification selective renal arteriograms were performed on 24 patients, 12 of whom were hypertensive, and compared with non-magnification arteriograms by two observers independently. The magnification angiograms were performed on a Siemens Microfocus Bi 125/3/50 RG tube with a 0.1 mm focal spot. Of the 24 patients examined, information crucial to the diagnosis was found only on the magnification films in three patients (12.5%). Extra information compared with the nonmagnification films was found in the magnification films in 12 patients (50%). No additional information was discovered in the remaining nine patients (37.5%). The magnification angiograms enabled the interlobular vessels to be visualized--this was not possible on the non-magnification films. Against the additional information gained must be weighed the disadvantages of magnification arteriography which include increased radiation dose and lengthening of procedure time plus additional injections of contrast. In conclusion, there is a place for magnification renal arteriography and the advantages seem to outweigh the disadvantages.", "PMID": 444817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6899", "title": "Angiography in leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava--report of two cases.", "content": "Two patients with leiomyosarcoma of the suprarenal inferior vena cava are presented. In one case the tumour was misinterpreted as intrahepatic at angiography. In the second case an extrahepatic location was suggested after repeated angiography. The diagnosis should be borne in mind when a large hypovascular mass appears to be located centrally in the liver at coeliac angiography and when ultrasound examination has revealed its solid nature.", "contents": "Angiography in leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava--report of two cases. Two patients with leiomyosarcoma of the suprarenal inferior vena cava are presented. In one case the tumour was misinterpreted as intrahepatic at angiography. In the second case an extrahepatic location was suggested after repeated angiography. The diagnosis should be borne in mind when a large hypovascular mass appears to be located centrally in the liver at coeliac angiography and when ultrasound examination has revealed its solid nature.", "PMID": 444818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6900", "title": "Ultrasound in the evaluation and diagnosis of jaundice.", "content": "Our experience in the evaluation and diagnosis of jaundice by ultrasound in a consecutive series of patients examined in the past year is reported. A final diagnosis is available in 49 patients with obstructive jaundice and 41 patients with nonobstructive jaundice. The accuracy of separation into these two groups is 97% in this series. We would like to stress the value of ultrasound as a complete investigation in many jaundiced patients. In this series a full diagnosis of the cause of jaundice was achieved in 58% of patients.", "contents": "Ultrasound in the evaluation and diagnosis of jaundice. Our experience in the evaluation and diagnosis of jaundice by ultrasound in a consecutive series of patients examined in the past year is reported. A final diagnosis is available in 49 patients with obstructive jaundice and 41 patients with nonobstructive jaundice. The accuracy of separation into these two groups is 97% in this series. We would like to stress the value of ultrasound as a complete investigation in many jaundiced patients. In this series a full diagnosis of the cause of jaundice was achieved in 58% of patients.", "PMID": 444819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6901", "title": "Grey-scale ultrasonic characteristics of carcinoma of the pancreas.", "content": "Fifty-five sonograms were performed on 25 cases of surgically and histologically proven carcinoma of the pancreas. The sonographic appearances of the tumour were determined. A diffuse echogenic pattern with irregular margin was the most common appearance. Displacement and indentation of the inferior vena cava and superior mesenteric vessels, greatly assist in localizing the tumour to the pancreas. A reliable prediction of tumour size and resectability cannot be determined by sonography alone. Sonography is helpful in assessing the response of unresectable pancreatic carcinoma to therapy. A more sonolucent appearance of the tumour occurs following chemotherapy.", "contents": "Grey-scale ultrasonic characteristics of carcinoma of the pancreas. Fifty-five sonograms were performed on 25 cases of surgically and histologically proven carcinoma of the pancreas. The sonographic appearances of the tumour were determined. A diffuse echogenic pattern with irregular margin was the most common appearance. Displacement and indentation of the inferior vena cava and superior mesenteric vessels, greatly assist in localizing the tumour to the pancreas. A reliable prediction of tumour size and resectability cannot be determined by sonography alone. Sonography is helpful in assessing the response of unresectable pancreatic carcinoma to therapy. A more sonolucent appearance of the tumour occurs following chemotherapy.", "PMID": 444820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6902", "title": "Radionuclide venography in the management of proximal venous occlusion. A comparison with X-ray contrast venography.", "content": "Ascending contrast venography often fails to show the proximal venous system when there is co-existing occlusion of femoral or iliac veins. Retrograde and pertrochanteric venography both have severe limitations in terms of invasiveness and reliability. Radionuclide venography (RNV) is suggested as a less invasive alternative. 100 patients were investigated by both RNV and X-ray contrast venography (XRV). There was a 72% overall correlation between two methods of investigation. The proximal definition of XRV was limited in those cases with femoral obstruction. RNV, however gave progressively better views as imaging became more proximal and this was accentuated in the presence of femoral or iliac occlusion. RNV is simple and easy to perform and less invasive than XRV. The definition at calf level is such that it cannot at this stage replace XRV as the standard diagnostic procedure. However, in patients with proximal occlusions it gives more reliable information than that obtainable by ascending contrast venography.", "contents": "Radionuclide venography in the management of proximal venous occlusion. A comparison with X-ray contrast venography. Ascending contrast venography often fails to show the proximal venous system when there is co-existing occlusion of femoral or iliac veins. Retrograde and pertrochanteric venography both have severe limitations in terms of invasiveness and reliability. Radionuclide venography (RNV) is suggested as a less invasive alternative. 100 patients were investigated by both RNV and X-ray contrast venography (XRV). There was a 72% overall correlation between two methods of investigation. The proximal definition of XRV was limited in those cases with femoral obstruction. RNV, however gave progressively better views as imaging became more proximal and this was accentuated in the presence of femoral or iliac occlusion. RNV is simple and easy to perform and less invasive than XRV. The definition at calf level is such that it cannot at this stage replace XRV as the standard diagnostic procedure. However, in patients with proximal occlusions it gives more reliable information than that obtainable by ascending contrast venography.", "PMID": 444821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6903", "title": "Induced thermal resistance in the mouse ear.", "content": "The mouse ear (pinna) was used to investigate the effect of two hyperthermic treatments. Heating was by immersion in hot water at 43.5 degrees C. A single treatment of about 50 minutes was required to cause necrosis in 50% of the ears heated. When heat treatment was given in two equal fractions the total heating time had to be increased if the interval between fractions was greater than four hours. By 24 hours a total treatment of about 100 minutes was required, indicating almost complete recovery from the first heating. Priming treatments at 43.5 degrees C induced thermal resistance to a second heat treatment at 43.5 degrees C. Maximum resistance was observed one day after a 20 minute priming and two days after a 40 minute priming, when the heating time had to be increased to 120 minutes, an increase by a factor of 2.4. Shorter priming treatments induced less resistance, the minimum heating time to produce an effect being two minutes. In all cases the effect decreased during the next four to five days. These results indicate that the reduced response of tissues to fractionated hyperthermia is due both to the repair of sublethal heat damage and induction of thermal resistance.", "contents": "Induced thermal resistance in the mouse ear. The mouse ear (pinna) was used to investigate the effect of two hyperthermic treatments. Heating was by immersion in hot water at 43.5 degrees C. A single treatment of about 50 minutes was required to cause necrosis in 50% of the ears heated. When heat treatment was given in two equal fractions the total heating time had to be increased if the interval between fractions was greater than four hours. By 24 hours a total treatment of about 100 minutes was required, indicating almost complete recovery from the first heating. Priming treatments at 43.5 degrees C induced thermal resistance to a second heat treatment at 43.5 degrees C. Maximum resistance was observed one day after a 20 minute priming and two days after a 40 minute priming, when the heating time had to be increased to 120 minutes, an increase by a factor of 2.4. Shorter priming treatments induced less resistance, the minimum heating time to produce an effect being two minutes. In all cases the effect decreased during the next four to five days. These results indicate that the reduced response of tissues to fractionated hyperthermia is due both to the repair of sublethal heat damage and induction of thermal resistance.", "PMID": 444822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6904", "title": "The effect of prior heat treatment on the thermal enhancement of radiation damage in the mouse ear.", "content": "The effects of prior heat treatment on the skin reaction produced by a subsequent treatment with combined heat and X-rays were investigated in the mouse ear. Ears were heated by immersion in hot water. The priming heat treatment was always 43.5 degrees C for 40 minutes. Its effect was transient, beginning between 24 and 48 hours after the priming treatment and reaching a maximum at 48 to 96 hours when there was a reduction in the skin response to combined heat and X rays, i.e. it caused a reduction in the thermal enhancement ratio (TER). The effect was lost by 192 hours. At 96 hours after the priming treatment the TER for 30 minutes at 42.5 degrees C or at 43.5 degrees C was reduced by a value equivalent to decreasing the temperature by about 0.4 degrees C. This was equivalent to increasing the heating at 43.5 degrees C required to produce a given enhancement of radiation damage by a factor of 1.4 relative to that required without prior heating. The effect was smaller than induced resistance to damage caused by severe heat treatment alone (i.e. necrosis) and it occurred later. These differences support the concept that two separate mechanisms underlie direct heat necrosis and thermal enhancement of radiation damage.", "contents": "The effect of prior heat treatment on the thermal enhancement of radiation damage in the mouse ear. The effects of prior heat treatment on the skin reaction produced by a subsequent treatment with combined heat and X-rays were investigated in the mouse ear. Ears were heated by immersion in hot water. The priming heat treatment was always 43.5 degrees C for 40 minutes. Its effect was transient, beginning between 24 and 48 hours after the priming treatment and reaching a maximum at 48 to 96 hours when there was a reduction in the skin response to combined heat and X rays, i.e. it caused a reduction in the thermal enhancement ratio (TER). The effect was lost by 192 hours. At 96 hours after the priming treatment the TER for 30 minutes at 42.5 degrees C or at 43.5 degrees C was reduced by a value equivalent to decreasing the temperature by about 0.4 degrees C. This was equivalent to increasing the heating at 43.5 degrees C required to produce a given enhancement of radiation damage by a factor of 1.4 relative to that required without prior heating. The effect was smaller than induced resistance to damage caused by severe heat treatment alone (i.e. necrosis) and it occurred later. These differences support the concept that two separate mechanisms underlie direct heat necrosis and thermal enhancement of radiation damage.", "PMID": 444823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6905", "title": "Measurement of regional cerebral blood volume using the EMI 1010 scanner.", "content": "Regional cerebral blood volume (rCBV) was measured in 14 patients with normal CT scans. An EMI CT 1010 scanner was used in combination with a computer subtraction technique. The mean CBV in the cortex was 5.0 ml/100 ml of tissue and 2.2 in the white matter. Regional differences were not significant and no difference was found between the right and left hemispheres.", "contents": "Measurement of regional cerebral blood volume using the EMI 1010 scanner. Regional cerebral blood volume (rCBV) was measured in 14 patients with normal CT scans. An EMI CT 1010 scanner was used in combination with a computer subtraction technique. The mean CBV in the cortex was 5.0 ml/100 ml of tissue and 2.2 in the white matter. Regional differences were not significant and no difference was found between the right and left hemispheres.", "PMID": 444834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6906", "title": "Ultrasound diagnosis and treatment of gall-bladder fossa collections following biliary tract surgery.", "content": "Three patients are presented with sterile or septic subhepatic fluid collections after biliary tract surgery. In each patient, the common clinical presentation was fever and ultrasound was primarily responsible for demonstrating its source. In one patient, percutaneous aspiration of the abscess under ultrasonic guidance obviated the need for any further treatment. We conclude.that ultrasound is an effective method for investigating suspected fluid collections after biliary tract surgery. Aspiration of the lesion under ultrasonic guidance is a safe means for confirmation of the diagnosis and may be therapeutic as well.", "contents": "Ultrasound diagnosis and treatment of gall-bladder fossa collections following biliary tract surgery. Three patients are presented with sterile or septic subhepatic fluid collections after biliary tract surgery. In each patient, the common clinical presentation was fever and ultrasound was primarily responsible for demonstrating its source. In one patient, percutaneous aspiration of the abscess under ultrasonic guidance obviated the need for any further treatment. We conclude.that ultrasound is an effective method for investigating suspected fluid collections after biliary tract surgery. Aspiration of the lesion under ultrasonic guidance is a safe means for confirmation of the diagnosis and may be therapeutic as well.", "PMID": 444836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6907", "title": "Radiosensitizing effect of misonidazole in fractionated gamma-ray treatment of a human malignant melanoma grown in athymic nude mice.", "content": "The effect of the hypoxic cell radiosensitizer misonidazole (Ro-07-0582) has been tested on a human malignant melanoma grown subcutaneously in the athymic mutant nude mouse. A 60Co therapy unit was used for local irradiation of the animals. The tumours were exposed daily to 3.75 Gy (375 rad) over four consecutive days, to a total dose of 15.0 Gy. Misonidazole in doses of 500 mg/kg bodyweight was administered intraperitoneally in the mice 45 minutes before each irradiation. The time necessary for the tumours to regrow to their original sizes was compared with that of tumours treated with four daily fractions of 3.75, 4.50 and 5.25 Gy without sensitizer. The enhancement ratio of misonidazole was found to be 1.05.", "contents": "Radiosensitizing effect of misonidazole in fractionated gamma-ray treatment of a human malignant melanoma grown in athymic nude mice. The effect of the hypoxic cell radiosensitizer misonidazole (Ro-07-0582) has been tested on a human malignant melanoma grown subcutaneously in the athymic mutant nude mouse. A 60Co therapy unit was used for local irradiation of the animals. The tumours were exposed daily to 3.75 Gy (375 rad) over four consecutive days, to a total dose of 15.0 Gy. Misonidazole in doses of 500 mg/kg bodyweight was administered intraperitoneally in the mice 45 minutes before each irradiation. The time necessary for the tumours to regrow to their original sizes was compared with that of tumours treated with four daily fractions of 3.75, 4.50 and 5.25 Gy without sensitizer. The enhancement ratio of misonidazole was found to be 1.05.", "PMID": 444837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6908", "title": "Castleman's disease. Angiofollicular benign lymph-node hyperplasia. Radiological features in the differential diagnosis of vascular tumours of the pelvis.", "content": "An unusual case of benign lymph-node hyperplasia (Castleman) in the pelvis is reported and its clinical, histological and radiographic characteristics discussed. The angiographic appearances in this situation have to our knowledge not been described before in the literature. The angiographic features are not diagnostic, being mimicked by a wide variety of vascular tumours in the pelvis. The benign nature of the condition is stressed. BLH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of vascular tumours in the pelvis.", "contents": "Castleman's disease. Angiofollicular benign lymph-node hyperplasia. Radiological features in the differential diagnosis of vascular tumours of the pelvis. An unusual case of benign lymph-node hyperplasia (Castleman) in the pelvis is reported and its clinical, histological and radiographic characteristics discussed. The angiographic appearances in this situation have to our knowledge not been described before in the literature. The angiographic features are not diagnostic, being mimicked by a wide variety of vascular tumours in the pelvis. The benign nature of the condition is stressed. BLH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of vascular tumours in the pelvis.", "PMID": 444840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6909", "title": "The management of suspected tumours of the colon: the role of colonoscopy in general surgery.", "content": "The role of colonoscopy in the management of 100 cases of suspected large bowel tumour is described. Forty out of 47 patients with an equivocal barium enema examination were satisfactorily examined and the possibility of a tumour being present was either confirmed or refuted. Examination of 30 patients with otherwise unexplained blood loss from the bowel revealed the cause in 50 per cent of them. Twenty-nine patients had pedunculated polyps which were snared and removed, thus avoiding laparotomy and colotomy. The problem of distinguishing tumours from other lesions or retained faeces by radiology arises most often in the sigmoid colon. This segment is easily examined using a short flexible endoscope. General surgeons taking up colonoscopy will find a 1-m single-channel instrument convenient to use and capable of reaching approximately 90 per cent of colonic tumours that require further investigation or endoscopic resection. Facilities for the examination of the whole colon should be available in established endoscopy units.", "contents": "The management of suspected tumours of the colon: the role of colonoscopy in general surgery. The role of colonoscopy in the management of 100 cases of suspected large bowel tumour is described. Forty out of 47 patients with an equivocal barium enema examination were satisfactorily examined and the possibility of a tumour being present was either confirmed or refuted. Examination of 30 patients with otherwise unexplained blood loss from the bowel revealed the cause in 50 per cent of them. Twenty-nine patients had pedunculated polyps which were snared and removed, thus avoiding laparotomy and colotomy. The problem of distinguishing tumours from other lesions or retained faeces by radiology arises most often in the sigmoid colon. This segment is easily examined using a short flexible endoscope. General surgeons taking up colonoscopy will find a 1-m single-channel instrument convenient to use and capable of reaching approximately 90 per cent of colonic tumours that require further investigation or endoscopic resection. Facilities for the examination of the whole colon should be available in established endoscopy units.", "PMID": 444846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6910", "title": "Cancer of the large bowel in a defined population: Canterbury, New Zealand, 1970--4.", "content": "A total of 1024 new cases of cancer of the large bowel occurred in Canterbury, New Zealand (population 400,796), in the 5 years 1970--4. Of these, 992 were diagnosed before death and are reviewed in this paper. The high incidence of this disease in New Zealanders of European origin is illustrated. A significant difference in site distribution of primary tumours between the sexes was found, with a female preponderance of cancer of the proximal colon gradually changing to a male preponderance of cancer of the rectum. In all, 61.5 per cent of the patients had lymph node metastases or advanced disease at the time of diagnosis or treatment. Largely as a consequence of this, only 65 per cent were able to have potentially curative treatment. The estimated crude 5-year survival rate of the whole group was 32.7 per cent (relative rate 42.8 per cent) and the crude 5-year survival rate after potentially curative surgery was 48.4 per cent (relative rate 62.4 per cent). The results are compared with those of other authors. They emphasize the generally unsatisfactory outcome of treatment.", "contents": "Cancer of the large bowel in a defined population: Canterbury, New Zealand, 1970--4. A total of 1024 new cases of cancer of the large bowel occurred in Canterbury, New Zealand (population 400,796), in the 5 years 1970--4. Of these, 992 were diagnosed before death and are reviewed in this paper. The high incidence of this disease in New Zealanders of European origin is illustrated. A significant difference in site distribution of primary tumours between the sexes was found, with a female preponderance of cancer of the proximal colon gradually changing to a male preponderance of cancer of the rectum. In all, 61.5 per cent of the patients had lymph node metastases or advanced disease at the time of diagnosis or treatment. Largely as a consequence of this, only 65 per cent were able to have potentially curative treatment. The estimated crude 5-year survival rate of the whole group was 32.7 per cent (relative rate 42.8 per cent) and the crude 5-year survival rate after potentially curative surgery was 48.4 per cent (relative rate 62.4 per cent). The results are compared with those of other authors. They emphasize the generally unsatisfactory outcome of treatment.", "PMID": 444847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6911", "title": "Extra-intracranial revascularization.", "content": "Twenty-four extra-intracranial revascularization procedures were undertaken in 23 patients with occlusion of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. The superficial temporal artery was anastomosed to a cortical branch of the middle cerebral artery in 23 cases and a vein graft inserted between the external carotid artery and the cortical vessel in 1, a microsurgical technique being used. Twenty-one patients were suffering from transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) and 2 had developing strokes. Nineteen patients had radiologically demonstrated bilateral disease of the carotid vessels, 9 having undergone contralateral carotid artery surgery before the intracranial procedure. No improvement was noted in the 2 patients with developing strokes; one patient developed a stroke contralateral to the intracranial procedure 24 h postoperatively, this being accompanied by occlusion of the anastomoses, and one patient had progression of the stroke syndrome following occlusion of the intracranial vein graft. All other patients have shown a reduction of abolition of TIAs over a follow-up period of 24 months. These findings suggest that intracranial revascularization is of value in patients with total internal carotid artery occlusion and continuing TIAs.", "contents": "Extra-intracranial revascularization. Twenty-four extra-intracranial revascularization procedures were undertaken in 23 patients with occlusion of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. The superficial temporal artery was anastomosed to a cortical branch of the middle cerebral artery in 23 cases and a vein graft inserted between the external carotid artery and the cortical vessel in 1, a microsurgical technique being used. Twenty-one patients were suffering from transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) and 2 had developing strokes. Nineteen patients had radiologically demonstrated bilateral disease of the carotid vessels, 9 having undergone contralateral carotid artery surgery before the intracranial procedure. No improvement was noted in the 2 patients with developing strokes; one patient developed a stroke contralateral to the intracranial procedure 24 h postoperatively, this being accompanied by occlusion of the anastomoses, and one patient had progression of the stroke syndrome following occlusion of the intracranial vein graft. All other patients have shown a reduction of abolition of TIAs over a follow-up period of 24 months. These findings suggest that intracranial revascularization is of value in patients with total internal carotid artery occlusion and continuing TIAs.", "PMID": 444848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6912", "title": "Deep vein thrombosis after total hip replacement: a clinical and phlebographic study.", "content": "Two hundred and forty-seven phlebograms (113 bilateral and 21 unilateral) were performed in 134 patients 10--14 days after total hip replacement. Fifty-eight per cent of the patients were found to have deep vein thrombosis. The patients with DVT were significantly older than patients without DVT, but there was no difference regarding sex, type of hip prosthesis, side of operation or day of mobilization. No difference was found in the duration of operation and anaesthesia, the operative haemorrhage and the amount of bank blood transfused in patients with and without DVT. Fifty per cent of the thrombi were confined to the calf veins. Ninety-seven per cent of these thrombi were asymptomatic and were as frequent on the operated as on the non-operated side. The remaining 50 per cent of the thrombi engaged the thigh with or without simultaneous calf vein involvement. These thrombi produced symptoms in 23 per cent of the cases and were significantly more common on the operated than on the non-operated side. It is concluded that DVT after hip replacement can be of two different types: thrombosis caused by stasis and the general effects of trauma and thrombosis caused by local factors involving the thigh veins of the operated leg.", "contents": "Deep vein thrombosis after total hip replacement: a clinical and phlebographic study. Two hundred and forty-seven phlebograms (113 bilateral and 21 unilateral) were performed in 134 patients 10--14 days after total hip replacement. Fifty-eight per cent of the patients were found to have deep vein thrombosis. The patients with DVT were significantly older than patients without DVT, but there was no difference regarding sex, type of hip prosthesis, side of operation or day of mobilization. No difference was found in the duration of operation and anaesthesia, the operative haemorrhage and the amount of bank blood transfused in patients with and without DVT. Fifty per cent of the thrombi were confined to the calf veins. Ninety-seven per cent of these thrombi were asymptomatic and were as frequent on the operated as on the non-operated side. The remaining 50 per cent of the thrombi engaged the thigh with or without simultaneous calf vein involvement. These thrombi produced symptoms in 23 per cent of the cases and were significantly more common on the operated than on the non-operated side. It is concluded that DVT after hip replacement can be of two different types: thrombosis caused by stasis and the general effects of trauma and thrombosis caused by local factors involving the thigh veins of the operated leg.", "PMID": 444849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6913", "title": "Ambulatory calf volume plethysmography in the assessment of venous insufficiency.", "content": "Ambulatory calf volume plethysmography has been used to study venous insufficiency in 50 lower limbs. The results demonstrate that it is possible to determine the presence of venous insufficiency and differentiate between normal limbs, limbs with superficial venous insufficiency only, limbs with deep venous insufficiency and limbs with deep venous insufficiency and occlusion by determining the ambulatory volume change and maximum venous outflow or venous volume.", "contents": "Ambulatory calf volume plethysmography in the assessment of venous insufficiency. Ambulatory calf volume plethysmography has been used to study venous insufficiency in 50 lower limbs. The results demonstrate that it is possible to determine the presence of venous insufficiency and differentiate between normal limbs, limbs with superficial venous insufficiency only, limbs with deep venous insufficiency and limbs with deep venous insufficiency and occlusion by determining the ambulatory volume change and maximum venous outflow or venous volume.", "PMID": 444850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6914", "title": "Axillary vein entrapment.", "content": "This paper describes a patient with right axillary vein obstruction resulting from compression of the vein due to anomalous muscle tissue extending from the latissimus dorsi muscle across the neurovascular bundle to the pectoralis major muscle. This 'axillopectoral muscle' causing entrapment of the axillary vein has been described in only a few cases. These previous reports are discussed, with special reference to the symptoms and phlebographic findings. The obstruction and the symptoms caused by it are intermittent; the phlebographic features are characteristic.", "contents": "Axillary vein entrapment. This paper describes a patient with right axillary vein obstruction resulting from compression of the vein due to anomalous muscle tissue extending from the latissimus dorsi muscle across the neurovascular bundle to the pectoralis major muscle. This 'axillopectoral muscle' causing entrapment of the axillary vein has been described in only a few cases. These previous reports are discussed, with special reference to the symptoms and phlebographic findings. The obstruction and the symptoms caused by it are intermittent; the phlebographic features are characteristic.", "PMID": 444851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6915", "title": "Partial and complete atrophy affecting hepatic segments and lobes.", "content": "Thirty-four patients with atrophic lesions of liver segments or lobes are described. The primary diagnoses included alcoholic liver disease, various forms of cirrhosis, hydatid disease, tumours and sclerosing cholangitis. Seventeen patients had complete atrophy of the segment or lobe and the other 17 patients had partial atrophy (i.e. a reduction of at least 50 per cent in the size of the affected area). Complete atrophy affected the left lobe more frequently than the right. The condition is important, first, because it is more common than is generally recognized, and second, because it may create considerable diagnostic and therapeutic problems.", "contents": "Partial and complete atrophy affecting hepatic segments and lobes. Thirty-four patients with atrophic lesions of liver segments or lobes are described. The primary diagnoses included alcoholic liver disease, various forms of cirrhosis, hydatid disease, tumours and sclerosing cholangitis. Seventeen patients had complete atrophy of the segment or lobe and the other 17 patients had partial atrophy (i.e. a reduction of at least 50 per cent in the size of the affected area). Complete atrophy affected the left lobe more frequently than the right. The condition is important, first, because it is more common than is generally recognized, and second, because it may create considerable diagnostic and therapeutic problems.", "PMID": 444852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6916", "title": "The treatment of major liver trauma by primary packing with transfer of the patient for definitive treatment.", "content": "Four patients are reported in whom massive haemorrhage from severe hepatic trauma was managed initially by conservative surgery and packing. The patients were then transferred by ambulance to Addenbrooke's Hospital where further treatment involved elective surgery and removal of packs. All 4 patients were discharged from hospital and have made full recoveries. It is felt that the management of liver trauma should be to do the minimum that is necessary to staunch bleeding, by suture, arterial ligation, lobectomy, resectional debridement or simply by packing. This allows the patient's haemodynamic state to be restored to normal before further surgery is attempted.", "contents": "The treatment of major liver trauma by primary packing with transfer of the patient for definitive treatment. Four patients are reported in whom massive haemorrhage from severe hepatic trauma was managed initially by conservative surgery and packing. The patients were then transferred by ambulance to Addenbrooke's Hospital where further treatment involved elective surgery and removal of packs. All 4 patients were discharged from hospital and have made full recoveries. It is felt that the management of liver trauma should be to do the minimum that is necessary to staunch bleeding, by suture, arterial ligation, lobectomy, resectional debridement or simply by packing. This allows the patient's haemodynamic state to be restored to normal before further surgery is attempted.", "PMID": 444853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6917", "title": "Postoperative hypophosphataemia.", "content": "The possible mechanisms of postoperative hypophosphataemia were studied in women undergoing uncomplicated cholecystectomy. Six patients were allocated to each of three groups. Group I received no intravenous fluids, group II received dextrose/saline solution alone and group III received dextrose/saline solution with phosphorus supplementation. The serum concentration of inorganic phosphorus fell in all three groups, the greatest fall being in the group receiving dextrose/saline solution. However, the lowest level reached (0.82 mmol/l) was within the normal range for our laboratory. Concentrations of red blood cell adenosine triphosphate and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate showed similar changes. The operations were not associated with a large catabolic response nor with an increase in urinary phosphorus excretion. The postoperative reduction in serum concentration of inorganic phosphorus appeared to be due mainly to haemodilution. There is no indication for routine phosphorus supplementation following uncomplicated elective surgery.", "contents": "Postoperative hypophosphataemia. The possible mechanisms of postoperative hypophosphataemia were studied in women undergoing uncomplicated cholecystectomy. Six patients were allocated to each of three groups. Group I received no intravenous fluids, group II received dextrose/saline solution alone and group III received dextrose/saline solution with phosphorus supplementation. The serum concentration of inorganic phosphorus fell in all three groups, the greatest fall being in the group receiving dextrose/saline solution. However, the lowest level reached (0.82 mmol/l) was within the normal range for our laboratory. Concentrations of red blood cell adenosine triphosphate and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate showed similar changes. The operations were not associated with a large catabolic response nor with an increase in urinary phosphorus excretion. The postoperative reduction in serum concentration of inorganic phosphorus appeared to be due mainly to haemodilution. There is no indication for routine phosphorus supplementation following uncomplicated elective surgery.", "PMID": 444854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6918", "title": "Chronic abdominal pain: a surgical or psychiatric symptom?", "content": "A prospective investigation of chronic, non-specific abdominal pain in 20 patients is reported. The cause was found to be psychiatric in 8 (40 per cent), while a surgical cause was found in only 3 (15 per cent). Four had irritable colon (20 per cent) and no diagnosis was made in 5 (25 per cent). It is suggested that such pain is more often a psychiatric than a surgical symptom and therefore a psychiatric consultation should be a routine part of the investigation.", "contents": "Chronic abdominal pain: a surgical or psychiatric symptom? A prospective investigation of chronic, non-specific abdominal pain in 20 patients is reported. The cause was found to be psychiatric in 8 (40 per cent), while a surgical cause was found in only 3 (15 per cent). Four had irritable colon (20 per cent) and no diagnosis was made in 5 (25 per cent). It is suggested that such pain is more often a psychiatric than a surgical symptom and therefore a psychiatric consultation should be a routine part of the investigation.", "PMID": 444855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6919", "title": "Interstitial emphysema of the stomach.", "content": "A case of interstitial emphysema of the stomach is reported and the possible aetiological factors involved are discussed.", "contents": "Interstitial emphysema of the stomach. A case of interstitial emphysema of the stomach is reported and the possible aetiological factors involved are discussed.", "PMID": 444856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6920", "title": "Hospital resuscitation from ventricular fibrillation in Brighton.", "content": "The overall results over three and a half years of the treatment of ventricular fibrillation secondary to ischaemic heart disease in the Royal Sussex County Hospital were reviewed. Records of all patients who were brought to hospital by resuscitation ambulances or who were admitted to the coronary care unit from any source were analysed. Eighty-seven of the 174 patients (50%) who developed ventricular fibrillation were discharged. The survivors included 13 out of 61 patients (21%) in whom fibrillation was secondary to cardiogenic shock or severe left ventricular failure. The presence of resuscitation equipment and nursing staff trained to use it in the general wards and emergency areas ensured a uniformly high success rate throughout the hospital, similar to that achieved in the coronary care unit. Prompt defibrillation in the general wards and the accident and emergency department may improve overall survival.", "contents": "Hospital resuscitation from ventricular fibrillation in Brighton. The overall results over three and a half years of the treatment of ventricular fibrillation secondary to ischaemic heart disease in the Royal Sussex County Hospital were reviewed. Records of all patients who were brought to hospital by resuscitation ambulances or who were admitted to the coronary care unit from any source were analysed. Eighty-seven of the 174 patients (50%) who developed ventricular fibrillation were discharged. The survivors included 13 out of 61 patients (21%) in whom fibrillation was secondary to cardiogenic shock or severe left ventricular failure. The presence of resuscitation equipment and nursing staff trained to use it in the general wards and emergency areas ensured a uniformly high success rate throughout the hospital, similar to that achieved in the coronary care unit. Prompt defibrillation in the general wards and the accident and emergency department may improve overall survival.", "PMID": 444862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6921", "title": "Current required for ventricular defibrillation.", "content": "The mean current required for ventricular defibrillation was measured and found to be 0.35 +/- SE 0.03 A/kg body weight, which is about one-third of that predicted from animal experiments. There was no apparent correlation between the current required and body weight (r = -0.007 +/- SE 0.213). There is no evidence of need for defibrillators storing more than 400 J.", "contents": "Current required for ventricular defibrillation. The mean current required for ventricular defibrillation was measured and found to be 0.35 +/- SE 0.03 A/kg body weight, which is about one-third of that predicted from animal experiments. There was no apparent correlation between the current required and body weight (r = -0.007 +/- SE 0.213). There is no evidence of need for defibrillators storing more than 400 J.", "PMID": 444863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6922", "title": "Evaluation of ultra-short dialysis.", "content": "A study was carried out to compare the effects of three dialysis regimens of different durations. Nineteen patients dialysed over 1975--7 for an average of only 11.2 hours per week were compared with nine dialysed for 24 hours per week (1974--6) and 10 dialysed for 27 hours (1971--3). Clinical, biochemical, and haematological results showed that the short dialysis regimen was as effective as the longer regimens, except that patients had to take a phosphate binder regularly, and that it was considerably cheaper. Short dialysis has social and economic benefits, since patients have more free time and more patients can be treated with the same number of staff and dialysis stations. As in many areas there is a shortage of places for patients needing dialysis, a short regimen is recommended.", "contents": "Evaluation of ultra-short dialysis. A study was carried out to compare the effects of three dialysis regimens of different durations. Nineteen patients dialysed over 1975--7 for an average of only 11.2 hours per week were compared with nine dialysed for 24 hours per week (1974--6) and 10 dialysed for 27 hours (1971--3). Clinical, biochemical, and haematological results showed that the short dialysis regimen was as effective as the longer regimens, except that patients had to take a phosphate binder regularly, and that it was considerably cheaper. Short dialysis has social and economic benefits, since patients have more free time and more patients can be treated with the same number of staff and dialysis stations. As in many areas there is a shortage of places for patients needing dialysis, a short regimen is recommended.", "PMID": 444864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6923", "title": "Sodium retention and hypertension with short dialysis.", "content": "Exchangeable sodium was measured in 26 patients undergoing dialysis with a modestly shortened schedule of 14.8 hours weekly and related to blood-pressure control. The group was compared with 27 patients studied in 1969 during twice-weekly dialysis totalling 22 hours, and with 18 patients studied in 1973 during dialysis of 18--21 hours weekly in three sessions. Exchangeable sodium was significantly increased with short dialysis compared with the other schedules and, although mean blood pressure was not significantly increased, significantly more patients required antihypertensive treatment than in either 1969 or 1973. A trend towards more frequent resort to bilateral nephrectomy than in 1973 did not reach significance. Problems of hypertension and the side effects of its treatment, both medical and surgical, should be weighed against the social and economic advantages of short dialysis in deciding on the ideal schedule.", "contents": "Sodium retention and hypertension with short dialysis. Exchangeable sodium was measured in 26 patients undergoing dialysis with a modestly shortened schedule of 14.8 hours weekly and related to blood-pressure control. The group was compared with 27 patients studied in 1969 during twice-weekly dialysis totalling 22 hours, and with 18 patients studied in 1973 during dialysis of 18--21 hours weekly in three sessions. Exchangeable sodium was significantly increased with short dialysis compared with the other schedules and, although mean blood pressure was not significantly increased, significantly more patients required antihypertensive treatment than in either 1969 or 1973. A trend towards more frequent resort to bilateral nephrectomy than in 1973 did not reach significance. Problems of hypertension and the side effects of its treatment, both medical and surgical, should be weighed against the social and economic advantages of short dialysis in deciding on the ideal schedule.", "PMID": 444865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6924", "title": "Diagnosis and management of brain death.", "content": "Finland was the first country in which brain death was legally accepted. Since 1975, 37 cases of brain death had been recorded in a university hospital in Finland, and these were reviewed. The cause for brain death was intracranial bleeding in 32 cases, other cerebrovascular disorder in two, and intracranial neoplasm in three. In 21 brain death was diagnosed clinically. In 16 cases confirmatory investigations (electroencephalography, cerebral angiography) were needed. After brain death had been established artificial support was withdrawn in 15 patients and organ transplantation was carried out in 10. In 12 patients, however, diagnosis of brain death did not influence management, though the heart stopped beating on average 25 hours after diagnosis. The Finnish criteria for brain death seem to be reliable and suitable for routine use.", "contents": "Diagnosis and management of brain death. Finland was the first country in which brain death was legally accepted. Since 1975, 37 cases of brain death had been recorded in a university hospital in Finland, and these were reviewed. The cause for brain death was intracranial bleeding in 32 cases, other cerebrovascular disorder in two, and intracranial neoplasm in three. In 21 brain death was diagnosed clinically. In 16 cases confirmatory investigations (electroencephalography, cerebral angiography) were needed. After brain death had been established artificial support was withdrawn in 15 patients and organ transplantation was carried out in 10. In 12 patients, however, diagnosis of brain death did not influence management, though the heart stopped beating on average 25 hours after diagnosis. The Finnish criteria for brain death seem to be reliable and suitable for routine use.", "PMID": 444869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6925", "title": "Prescription for a better British diet.", "content": "A new approach to establishing an upper or prescriptive level of recommended intakes of nutrients was devised for use in Britain. It was based on present food supplies in the UK, and the following measures were proposed to improve the national diet: moderate reductions in intakes of fat, sugar, meat, and alcohol; increased intakes of cereals, potatoes, and other vegetables and fruit; while intakes of milk and eggs and fish, pulses, and nuts were to remain unchanged. The proportions of food energy derived from protein would be increased, despite reduced meat consumption. Nutrient content of the diet may be expressed in terms of food groups or as nutrient concentrations per energy unit, which is particularly applicable to planning or prescribing diets for individuals or small groups. The suggested changes in the national diet are large enough to be meaningful, yet would not disrupt agricultural or trade policies if implemented over the next decade. Furthermore, the methods used to assess the recommended intakes of nutrients are flexible enough to be used both for planning and prescribing diets and for evaluating results of dietary surveys or histories.", "contents": "Prescription for a better British diet. A new approach to establishing an upper or prescriptive level of recommended intakes of nutrients was devised for use in Britain. It was based on present food supplies in the UK, and the following measures were proposed to improve the national diet: moderate reductions in intakes of fat, sugar, meat, and alcohol; increased intakes of cereals, potatoes, and other vegetables and fruit; while intakes of milk and eggs and fish, pulses, and nuts were to remain unchanged. The proportions of food energy derived from protein would be increased, despite reduced meat consumption. Nutrient content of the diet may be expressed in terms of food groups or as nutrient concentrations per energy unit, which is particularly applicable to planning or prescribing diets for individuals or small groups. The suggested changes in the national diet are large enough to be meaningful, yet would not disrupt agricultural or trade policies if implemented over the next decade. Furthermore, the methods used to assess the recommended intakes of nutrients are flexible enough to be used both for planning and prescribing diets and for evaluating results of dietary surveys or histories.", "PMID": 444870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6926", "title": "Hypopituitarism in normal-pressure hydrocephalus.", "content": "Hypothalamic hypopituitarism has been associated with the intermittent intracranial hypertension of \"normal-pressure\" hydrocephalus. Six patients with this condition were studied endocrinologically; five showed evidence of hypothalamohypophyseal insufficiency, and, though only one needed treatment, all needed continued assessment of their endocrine state during follow-up. Thus, hypothalamohypophyseal dysfunction is more common than might be expected. Tests of anterior pituitary function should be preformed before surgical intervention, as such dysfunction may adversely affect survival and the response to ventricular shunting.", "contents": "Hypopituitarism in normal-pressure hydrocephalus. Hypothalamic hypopituitarism has been associated with the intermittent intracranial hypertension of \"normal-pressure\" hydrocephalus. Six patients with this condition were studied endocrinologically; five showed evidence of hypothalamohypophyseal insufficiency, and, though only one needed treatment, all needed continued assessment of their endocrine state during follow-up. Thus, hypothalamohypophyseal dysfunction is more common than might be expected. Tests of anterior pituitary function should be preformed before surgical intervention, as such dysfunction may adversely affect survival and the response to ventricular shunting.", "PMID": 444913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6927", "title": "Comparison of black and white patients attending hypertension clinics in England.", "content": "Reports suggest that hypertension and death due to hypertensive disease are commoner among black than among white people. One hundred and thirty-five black patients attending hypertension clinics at three English hospitals were compared with age-, sex-, and clinicmatched white patients. The black women had higher blood pressures and weighed more than the white women, but there were no differences between the men. The black patients had not increased risk from family, obstetric, or smoking history. Proteinuria and nocturia were more common in black patients while urinary infections were less common. Heart size and left ventricular voltage were greater in black patients. Haemoglobin and plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were smaller and serum globulin concentration greater in black patients. No difference in response to treatment, attributable to race, was observed during the period of clinic attendance, which averaged 1.7 years. There was a slightly greater rate of default among black men during the first year of attendance.", "contents": "Comparison of black and white patients attending hypertension clinics in England. Reports suggest that hypertension and death due to hypertensive disease are commoner among black than among white people. One hundred and thirty-five black patients attending hypertension clinics at three English hospitals were compared with age-, sex-, and clinicmatched white patients. The black women had higher blood pressures and weighed more than the white women, but there were no differences between the men. The black patients had not increased risk from family, obstetric, or smoking history. Proteinuria and nocturia were more common in black patients while urinary infections were less common. Heart size and left ventricular voltage were greater in black patients. Haemoglobin and plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were smaller and serum globulin concentration greater in black patients. No difference in response to treatment, attributable to race, was observed during the period of clinic attendance, which averaged 1.7 years. There was a slightly greater rate of default among black men during the first year of attendance.", "PMID": 444914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6928", "title": "Outbreak of trichinosis near Paris.", "content": "A localised outbreak of trichinosis occurred in January 1976 in the southern suburbs of Paris. A total fo 125 cases was recorded including 30 children. The prominent symptoms were oedema of the face or eyelids, fever, and myalgia; diarrhoea was unusual and constipation common. An increased blood eosinophil count and raised serum concentrations of muscular enzymes strongly indicated trichinosis. This diagnosis was confirmed later immunologically. The parasite was found in only three out of 32 muscle biopsy specimens but this investigation was made relatively early in the disease. No deaths occurred. In all cases clinical recovery was fast and serum antibody titres were maximum during the first month and decreased slowly. The disease was milder and the recovery faster in children than adults. Epidemiological study suggested that horse meat was responsible for the infection, though no meat could be examined.", "contents": "Outbreak of trichinosis near Paris. A localised outbreak of trichinosis occurred in January 1976 in the southern suburbs of Paris. A total fo 125 cases was recorded including 30 children. The prominent symptoms were oedema of the face or eyelids, fever, and myalgia; diarrhoea was unusual and constipation common. An increased blood eosinophil count and raised serum concentrations of muscular enzymes strongly indicated trichinosis. This diagnosis was confirmed later immunologically. The parasite was found in only three out of 32 muscle biopsy specimens but this investigation was made relatively early in the disease. No deaths occurred. In all cases clinical recovery was fast and serum antibody titres were maximum during the first month and decreased slowly. The disease was milder and the recovery faster in children than adults. Epidemiological study suggested that horse meat was responsible for the infection, though no meat could be examined.", "PMID": 444915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6929", "title": "Randomised trial of two-drug and four-drug maintenance chemotherapy in advanced or recurrent Hodgkin's disease. Medical Research Council's working party on lymphomas.", "content": "Between 1970 and 1975, 108 patients who presented with advanced or recurrent Hodgkin's disease and were free of disease after six courses of chemotherapy with mustine, vinblastine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MVPP) were allocated at random to one of two regiments of maintenance treatment: either intermittent treatment with vinblastine and procarbazine or intermittent treatment with MVPP. After a median follow-up period of nearly five years there was no significant difference between the two groups in either the rate of relapse or death rate. Six of the 55 patients given the two-drug regimen died compared with 10 of the 53 given the four-drug regimen. The four-drug required hospital attendance and was less agreeable than the two-drug regimen. The efficacy of maintenance chemotherapy with the two-drug regimen was no less than that with the four-drug regimen, but the two-drug regimen had several practical advantages.", "contents": "Randomised trial of two-drug and four-drug maintenance chemotherapy in advanced or recurrent Hodgkin's disease. Medical Research Council's working party on lymphomas. Between 1970 and 1975, 108 patients who presented with advanced or recurrent Hodgkin's disease and were free of disease after six courses of chemotherapy with mustine, vinblastine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MVPP) were allocated at random to one of two regiments of maintenance treatment: either intermittent treatment with vinblastine and procarbazine or intermittent treatment with MVPP. After a median follow-up period of nearly five years there was no significant difference between the two groups in either the rate of relapse or death rate. Six of the 55 patients given the two-drug regimen died compared with 10 of the 53 given the four-drug regimen. The four-drug required hospital attendance and was less agreeable than the two-drug regimen. The efficacy of maintenance chemotherapy with the two-drug regimen was no less than that with the four-drug regimen, but the two-drug regimen had several practical advantages.", "PMID": 444954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6930", "title": "Vision screening of adolescents and their use of glasses.", "content": "Vision screening was performed in over 11 000 16-year-olds who were taking part in the National Child Development Study. For distance vision 75% had normal acuity, 9% a minor defect, and 16% a more severe unilateral or bilateral defect. For near vision 85% had normal vision, 8% a minor defect, and 7% a unilateral or bilateral defect. Few children (62) with normal distant vision had defects in near vision, though many more (607) had both poor distant vision and poor near vision. Vision defects were more common in girls than in boys and occurred more often in adolescents from non-manual than manual families. Athough 18% of children had been prescribed glasses for current use, a third did not have their glasses available at the examination: 27% of the children prescribed glasses had normal unaided distant visual acuity or only a minor defect, and they constituted 42% of those who were not wearing their glasses. Further investigation is needed into the criteria on which glasses are prescribed for children and into the reasons for which they are not worn.", "contents": "Vision screening of adolescents and their use of glasses. Vision screening was performed in over 11 000 16-year-olds who were taking part in the National Child Development Study. For distance vision 75% had normal acuity, 9% a minor defect, and 16% a more severe unilateral or bilateral defect. For near vision 85% had normal vision, 8% a minor defect, and 7% a unilateral or bilateral defect. Few children (62) with normal distant vision had defects in near vision, though many more (607) had both poor distant vision and poor near vision. Vision defects were more common in girls than in boys and occurred more often in adolescents from non-manual than manual families. Athough 18% of children had been prescribed glasses for current use, a third did not have their glasses available at the examination: 27% of the children prescribed glasses had normal unaided distant visual acuity or only a minor defect, and they constituted 42% of those who were not wearing their glasses. Further investigation is needed into the criteria on which glasses are prescribed for children and into the reasons for which they are not worn.", "PMID": 444955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6931", "title": "Indomethacin increases plasma lithium.", "content": "The effects of indomethacin on plasma lithium concentrations and renal lithium clearance were investigated in three psychiatric patients and four normal volunteers. After steady-state plasma lithium concentrations had been reached, the subjects received indomethacin placebo for three to seven days, indomethacin (50 mg thrice daily) for seven days, and placebo again for three to seven days. Indomethacin increased plasma lithium concentrations by 59% in the psychiatric patients and 30% in the volunteers. Renal lithium clearance was reduced by indomethacin by 31% in the group as a whole, and prostaglandin synthesis, determined by measuring the major metabolite of PGE2 with mass spectrometry, was reduced by 55%. These results show that indomethacin reduces renal lithium clearance to an extent which may be clinically important. They also suggest that the renal clearance may be affected by a prostaglandin-dependent mechanism, possibly located in the distal tubule.", "contents": "Indomethacin increases plasma lithium. The effects of indomethacin on plasma lithium concentrations and renal lithium clearance were investigated in three psychiatric patients and four normal volunteers. After steady-state plasma lithium concentrations had been reached, the subjects received indomethacin placebo for three to seven days, indomethacin (50 mg thrice daily) for seven days, and placebo again for three to seven days. Indomethacin increased plasma lithium concentrations by 59% in the psychiatric patients and 30% in the volunteers. Renal lithium clearance was reduced by indomethacin by 31% in the group as a whole, and prostaglandin synthesis, determined by measuring the major metabolite of PGE2 with mass spectrometry, was reduced by 55%. These results show that indomethacin reduces renal lithium clearance to an extent which may be clinically important. They also suggest that the renal clearance may be affected by a prostaglandin-dependent mechanism, possibly located in the distal tubule.", "PMID": 444956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6932", "title": "Failure of cerebral autoregulation as a cause of brain dysfunction in the elderly.", "content": "Cerebral blood flow in relation to change in arterial pressure was measured in 11 elderly patients with postural hypotension. Seven patients with symptoms showed bilateral or unilateral failure of cerebral autoregulation, while the four asymptomatic patients did not. Variations in cerebral autoregulation would explain why some elderly people with minor falls of systemic arterial pressure develop clinical signs of cerebral ischaemia whereas others with greater falls in blood pressure remain asymptomatic. Elderly patients with impaired autoregulation may be at risk of brain damage from minor falls in blood pressure.", "contents": "Failure of cerebral autoregulation as a cause of brain dysfunction in the elderly. Cerebral blood flow in relation to change in arterial pressure was measured in 11 elderly patients with postural hypotension. Seven patients with symptoms showed bilateral or unilateral failure of cerebral autoregulation, while the four asymptomatic patients did not. Variations in cerebral autoregulation would explain why some elderly people with minor falls of systemic arterial pressure develop clinical signs of cerebral ischaemia whereas others with greater falls in blood pressure remain asymptomatic. Elderly patients with impaired autoregulation may be at risk of brain damage from minor falls in blood pressure.", "PMID": 444957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6933", "title": "Indications for electric convulsion therapy and its use by senior psychiatrists.", "content": "A survey by questionnaire of all senior psychiatrists in the Wessex Region showed that they considered depressive psychosis to be the major indication for electric convulsion therapy (ECT). A good clinical response was thought to be predicted by the presence of psychomotor retardation, depressive delusions, depressed mood, early morning wakening, diurnal variation, loss of appetite, and agitation. ECT was judged to be extremely useful for treating mania and acute undifferentiated, catatonic, and paranoid schizophrenia; of some use in hypochondriasis; but of little value or contraindicated when there was severe, depersonalisation, or hysterical symptoms. Only 40% of the psychiatrists favoured unilateral ECT, and the variation in electrode placements used by different psychiatrists was surprising. Eighty per cent of the respondents used courses averaging six to eight treatments given over two or three weeks. Results obtained in this study, based on clinical judgment, differed from research findings, which emphasises the need for further study of this important treatment.", "contents": "Indications for electric convulsion therapy and its use by senior psychiatrists. A survey by questionnaire of all senior psychiatrists in the Wessex Region showed that they considered depressive psychosis to be the major indication for electric convulsion therapy (ECT). A good clinical response was thought to be predicted by the presence of psychomotor retardation, depressive delusions, depressed mood, early morning wakening, diurnal variation, loss of appetite, and agitation. ECT was judged to be extremely useful for treating mania and acute undifferentiated, catatonic, and paranoid schizophrenia; of some use in hypochondriasis; but of little value or contraindicated when there was severe, depersonalisation, or hysterical symptoms. Only 40% of the psychiatrists favoured unilateral ECT, and the variation in electrode placements used by different psychiatrists was surprising. Eighty per cent of the respondents used courses averaging six to eight treatments given over two or three weeks. Results obtained in this study, based on clinical judgment, differed from research findings, which emphasises the need for further study of this important treatment.", "PMID": 444994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6934", "title": "Campylobacter enteritis associated with consumption of unpasteurised milk.", "content": "In October and November 1978 two outbreaks of enteritis occurred in the north of England. Symptoms lasted two to over eight days but in no case necessitated admission to hospital. Faecal specimens from most of the patients were found to contain thermophilic Campylobacter sp. Inquiry disclosed that all patients had consumed unpasteurised milk from local farms. Examination of rectal swabs from the cattle concerned and milk socks yielded strains of Campylobacter sp indistinguishable from those isolated from the patients. It was therefore concluded that, since campylobacters are not known to be excreted in milk, faecal contamination of the milk had probably occurred and had led to these outbreaks. Evidence suggests that thermophilic Campylobacter sp is an occasional contaminant of milk. So long as unpasteurised milk continues to be distributed further outbreaks will probably occur.", "contents": "Campylobacter enteritis associated with consumption of unpasteurised milk. In October and November 1978 two outbreaks of enteritis occurred in the north of England. Symptoms lasted two to over eight days but in no case necessitated admission to hospital. Faecal specimens from most of the patients were found to contain thermophilic Campylobacter sp. Inquiry disclosed that all patients had consumed unpasteurised milk from local farms. Examination of rectal swabs from the cattle concerned and milk socks yielded strains of Campylobacter sp indistinguishable from those isolated from the patients. It was therefore concluded that, since campylobacters are not known to be excreted in milk, faecal contamination of the milk had probably occurred and had led to these outbreaks. Evidence suggests that thermophilic Campylobacter sp is an occasional contaminant of milk. So long as unpasteurised milk continues to be distributed further outbreaks will probably occur.", "PMID": 444995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6935", "title": "Pressure on the tracheal mucosa from cuffed tubes.", "content": "During cuffed intubation, damage to the trachea is least likely when the lateral wall pressure exerted by the cuff does not exceed the mean capillary perfusion pressure of the mucosa. A study was carried out of eight different types of endotracheal tubes. At the seal point the traditional red rubber tube and the armoured latex and Softway tubes exerted pressures above the mean systemic arterial pressure. Although the Portex and Mallinckrodt tubes exerted pressures close to the mean capillary perfusion pressure, much higher pressures resulted if they were overinflated. The Lanz tube, however, with its over-pressure safety balloon, maintained a lateral wall pressure below the mean capillary perfusion pressure even when inflated considerably beyond the seal point. Endotracheal cuffs are often overinflated in clinical practice. Since cuff-induced tracheal damage is most influenced by the lateral wall pressure, these results suggest that the use of Lanz-type tubes should be mandatory in intensive care units or when a cuffed tracheostomy tube is required and they should also be considered for use in more routine anaesthetic practice.", "contents": "Pressure on the tracheal mucosa from cuffed tubes. During cuffed intubation, damage to the trachea is least likely when the lateral wall pressure exerted by the cuff does not exceed the mean capillary perfusion pressure of the mucosa. A study was carried out of eight different types of endotracheal tubes. At the seal point the traditional red rubber tube and the armoured latex and Softway tubes exerted pressures above the mean systemic arterial pressure. Although the Portex and Mallinckrodt tubes exerted pressures close to the mean capillary perfusion pressure, much higher pressures resulted if they were overinflated. The Lanz tube, however, with its over-pressure safety balloon, maintained a lateral wall pressure below the mean capillary perfusion pressure even when inflated considerably beyond the seal point. Endotracheal cuffs are often overinflated in clinical practice. Since cuff-induced tracheal damage is most influenced by the lateral wall pressure, these results suggest that the use of Lanz-type tubes should be mandatory in intensive care units or when a cuffed tracheostomy tube is required and they should also be considered for use in more routine anaesthetic practice.", "PMID": 444996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6936", "title": "Urinary tract infections treated with single dose of short-acting sulphonamide.", "content": "In a prospective study 29 patients with urinary tract infections caused by sulphonamide-sensitive organisms were treated with a single oral dose of the short-acting sulphonamide sulphafurazole. Twenty-seven (93%) of the 29 patients--and possibly all 29--were cured of their infections. There was no difference in the recurrence rates after single-dose treatment and treatment for 10 days or more. Six out of eight strains of Escherichia coli causing early recurrences were sensitive to sulphonamides. These results suggest that uncomplicated infections may safely and successfully be treated by a single oral dose of a short-acting sulphonamide.", "contents": "Urinary tract infections treated with single dose of short-acting sulphonamide. In a prospective study 29 patients with urinary tract infections caused by sulphonamide-sensitive organisms were treated with a single oral dose of the short-acting sulphonamide sulphafurazole. Twenty-seven (93%) of the 29 patients--and possibly all 29--were cured of their infections. There was no difference in the recurrence rates after single-dose treatment and treatment for 10 days or more. Six out of eight strains of Escherichia coli causing early recurrences were sensitive to sulphonamides. These results suggest that uncomplicated infections may safely and successfully be treated by a single oral dose of a short-acting sulphonamide.", "PMID": 444997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6937", "title": "Severe hypernatraemia in adults.", "content": "In a prospective study of abnormalities of plasma sodium concentration carried out over one year 20 patients were identified who had a concentration exceeding 154 mmol(mEq)/1. Of these, eight patients had diabetes mellitus, eight had primary intracranial disorder, and four had become dehydrated. Five of the eight diabetics presented with hyperosmolar, non-ketotic precoma, and in all eight hypernatraemia developed despite treatment with hypotonic (0.45%) saline. There was a good correlation (r = -0.93) between the rates of change of plasma sodium and blood glucose concentrations, and thus a rise in plasma sodium concentration appeared to be a consequence of the treatment. In the early phase of treatment urinary sodium loss was extremely low despite a brisk diuresis, the infused sodium then predisposing the patients to hypernatraemia. All of the eight patients with intracranial disorders showed evidence of abnormal production of the antidiuretic hormone, six having frank diabetes insipidus. Severe hypernatraemia in this group was associated with a high mortality, fluid balance being difficult to maintain. Two of the four patients who had become dehydrated had had a recent gastrointestinal haemorrhage. In these patients infusion of 0.9% saline contributed to the hypernatraemia since urinary sodium loss was low. Severe hypernatraemia in adults is uncommon, but in established cases plasma and urinary biochemical indices should be measured frequently. Monitoring of the central venous pressure is usually necessary, and patients are best managed in an intensive care unit.", "contents": "Severe hypernatraemia in adults. In a prospective study of abnormalities of plasma sodium concentration carried out over one year 20 patients were identified who had a concentration exceeding 154 mmol(mEq)/1. Of these, eight patients had diabetes mellitus, eight had primary intracranial disorder, and four had become dehydrated. Five of the eight diabetics presented with hyperosmolar, non-ketotic precoma, and in all eight hypernatraemia developed despite treatment with hypotonic (0.45%) saline. There was a good correlation (r = -0.93) between the rates of change of plasma sodium and blood glucose concentrations, and thus a rise in plasma sodium concentration appeared to be a consequence of the treatment. In the early phase of treatment urinary sodium loss was extremely low despite a brisk diuresis, the infused sodium then predisposing the patients to hypernatraemia. All of the eight patients with intracranial disorders showed evidence of abnormal production of the antidiuretic hormone, six having frank diabetes insipidus. Severe hypernatraemia in this group was associated with a high mortality, fluid balance being difficult to maintain. Two of the four patients who had become dehydrated had had a recent gastrointestinal haemorrhage. In these patients infusion of 0.9% saline contributed to the hypernatraemia since urinary sodium loss was low. Severe hypernatraemia in adults is uncommon, but in established cases plasma and urinary biochemical indices should be measured frequently. Monitoring of the central venous pressure is usually necessary, and patients are best managed in an intensive care unit.", "PMID": 444998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6938", "title": "Fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries.", "content": "Two cases of severe fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries are described in which the diagnosis was made 12 and 11 years after renal angiography had shown the arteries to be normal. The discovery of hypertension preceded the diagnosis by two and 11 years respectively, and in one case hypertension was present at the time of the normal renal angiogram. The report suggests that fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries is acquired and may not be present from birth. The importance of regular review in cases of severe hypertension is emphasised.", "contents": "Fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries. Two cases of severe fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries are described in which the diagnosis was made 12 and 11 years after renal angiography had shown the arteries to be normal. The discovery of hypertension preceded the diagnosis by two and 11 years respectively, and in one case hypertension was present at the time of the normal renal angiogram. The report suggests that fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries is acquired and may not be present from birth. The importance of regular review in cases of severe hypertension is emphasised.", "PMID": 444999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6939", "title": "Extended role for general practitioners in obstetrics? A medical audit.", "content": "A study was designed to evaluate provision of services, process of medical care, and outcome in four general-practitioner obstetric units in isolated areas (Berwick, Whitby, Guernsey, and Brecon). All units were equipped to induce labour; to perform instrumental vaginal delivery and selected breech deliveries; and to remove placentas manually. All had some fetal monitoring equipment. Caesarean sections could not be performed at Berwick and Whitby. Proportions of normal deliveries during 1976-7 varied from 75% to 93%. Perinatal mortality was acceptably low, as were transfer rates for neonates and mothers in labour. With specialist help and particular attention to training and broadening local doctors' experience of abnormal obstetrics, such units should be able to provide an excellent obstetric service.", "contents": "Extended role for general practitioners in obstetrics? A medical audit. A study was designed to evaluate provision of services, process of medical care, and outcome in four general-practitioner obstetric units in isolated areas (Berwick, Whitby, Guernsey, and Brecon). All units were equipped to induce labour; to perform instrumental vaginal delivery and selected breech deliveries; and to remove placentas manually. All had some fetal monitoring equipment. Caesarean sections could not be performed at Berwick and Whitby. Proportions of normal deliveries during 1976-7 varied from 75% to 93%. Perinatal mortality was acceptably low, as were transfer rates for neonates and mothers in labour. With specialist help and particular attention to training and broadening local doctors' experience of abnormal obstetrics, such units should be able to provide an excellent obstetric service.", "PMID": 445003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6940", "title": "Obstetric history of diabetics: its relevance to the aetiology of diabetes.", "content": "The birth weights of infants born to patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (IDD) and insulin-independent diabetes (IID) before the disease was diagnosed were compared. An appreciable excess of infants above the 90th centile for weight was found, the proportions being 27% of infants born to mothers with IDD and 30% of those born to mothers with IID. These findings suggest that many patients with both types of diabetes have a prolonged period of metabolic abnormality before overt symptoms of diabetes arise and that the apparent acute onset of the disease in patients who are insulin dependent is illusory.", "contents": "Obstetric history of diabetics: its relevance to the aetiology of diabetes. The birth weights of infants born to patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (IDD) and insulin-independent diabetes (IID) before the disease was diagnosed were compared. An appreciable excess of infants above the 90th centile for weight was found, the proportions being 27% of infants born to mothers with IDD and 30% of those born to mothers with IID. These findings suggest that many patients with both types of diabetes have a prolonged period of metabolic abnormality before overt symptoms of diabetes arise and that the apparent acute onset of the disease in patients who are insulin dependent is illusory.", "PMID": 445045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6941", "title": "Evidential value of the hospital record in clinical decision making.", "content": "A simulated retrospective exercise in the diagnosis and management of 53 readmissions to a gastrointestinal unit was undertaken by two consultants. Diagnosis of the illness at readmission was made on evidence sought from a referee, who also supplied, on request, items of relevant evidence from the past medical record. Patient management was agreed from these sources. For each item of evidence the evidential weight, the irrecoverability, and the expected benefit accruing to the patient of its availability was calculated. It was concluded that the evidence worth recording in the event of subsequent hospital admission could be largely specified for each diagnosis and each operation. It would be brief and could be numerically coded.", "contents": "Evidential value of the hospital record in clinical decision making. A simulated retrospective exercise in the diagnosis and management of 53 readmissions to a gastrointestinal unit was undertaken by two consultants. Diagnosis of the illness at readmission was made on evidence sought from a referee, who also supplied, on request, items of relevant evidence from the past medical record. Patient management was agreed from these sources. For each item of evidence the evidential weight, the irrecoverability, and the expected benefit accruing to the patient of its availability was calculated. It was concluded that the evidence worth recording in the event of subsequent hospital admission could be largely specified for each diagnosis and each operation. It would be brief and could be numerically coded.", "PMID": 445046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6942", "title": "Biochemical testing for acute medical emergencies in four district general hospitals.", "content": "Comparable samples of 200 medical emergency admissions in four district general hospitals showed a threefold difference in the mean number of biochemical test values provided per patient, nearly all of which were obtained from blood specimens. Hospitals had consistently high or low mean numbers of values per patient for specific tests and clinical presentations and whether first or repeat tests were considered. Only 30 out of 188 different test types were reported at all four hospitals. Clinicians and chemical pathologists might benefit from regular expert advice on the most discriminating use of test information in cases with various clinical presentations.", "contents": "Biochemical testing for acute medical emergencies in four district general hospitals. Comparable samples of 200 medical emergency admissions in four district general hospitals showed a threefold difference in the mean number of biochemical test values provided per patient, nearly all of which were obtained from blood specimens. Hospitals had consistently high or low mean numbers of values per patient for specific tests and clinical presentations and whether first or repeat tests were considered. Only 30 out of 188 different test types were reported at all four hospitals. Clinicians and chemical pathologists might benefit from regular expert advice on the most discriminating use of test information in cases with various clinical presentations.", "PMID": 445047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6943", "title": "Assessment of tine tuberculin test.", "content": "Mantoux (10 tuberculin units) and tine tuberculin tests were performed in 190 subjects and the results recorded at 48, 72, and 96 hours. Altogether 1010 readings were recorded. Of these, 555 (55%) were Mantoux-test positive and 525 (52%) tine-test positive. While the tine test is marginally less sensitive, its advantages are simplicity and ease and speed of application. It thus provides a useful screening test for eliciting tuberculin sensitivity.", "contents": "Assessment of tine tuberculin test. Mantoux (10 tuberculin units) and tine tuberculin tests were performed in 190 subjects and the results recorded at 48, 72, and 96 hours. Altogether 1010 readings were recorded. Of these, 555 (55%) were Mantoux-test positive and 525 (52%) tine-test positive. While the tine test is marginally less sensitive, its advantages are simplicity and ease and speed of application. It thus provides a useful screening test for eliciting tuberculin sensitivity.", "PMID": 445054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6944", "title": "Incidence and outcome of symptomatic urinary tract infection in children.", "content": "The incidence of symptomatic urinary tract infection in 2879 children aged under 15 years was studied over 18 months in a single general practice. Infection was diagnosed if bacterial counts in three consecutive samples exceeded 100,000/ml. The incidence of urinary tract infection was 1.7 per 1000 boys at risk per year and 3.1 per 1000 girls. These values are lower than those of comparable studies, possibly because of the stricter diagnostic criterion used in the study. Urinary pus cell counts were also carried out and sometimes found to be misleading. Of the 14 children found to have an infection, three had a radiological abnormality. Five of the children had a recurrence of infection within the first two years, and one an asymptomatic bacteriuria seven years after diagnosis. Only six out of 34 children presenting with dysuria had infected urine, and an association was discovered between abacterial dysuria (or the urethral syndrome) in the remainder and a concurrent upper respiratory tract infection. All children should undergo radiological investigation after their first confirmed infection. Diagnosis and management could be improved by providing all general practitioners with a semiquantitative method of urine culture such as the dip slide.", "contents": "Incidence and outcome of symptomatic urinary tract infection in children. The incidence of symptomatic urinary tract infection in 2879 children aged under 15 years was studied over 18 months in a single general practice. Infection was diagnosed if bacterial counts in three consecutive samples exceeded 100,000/ml. The incidence of urinary tract infection was 1.7 per 1000 boys at risk per year and 3.1 per 1000 girls. These values are lower than those of comparable studies, possibly because of the stricter diagnostic criterion used in the study. Urinary pus cell counts were also carried out and sometimes found to be misleading. Of the 14 children found to have an infection, three had a radiological abnormality. Five of the children had a recurrence of infection within the first two years, and one an asymptomatic bacteriuria seven years after diagnosis. Only six out of 34 children presenting with dysuria had infected urine, and an association was discovered between abacterial dysuria (or the urethral syndrome) in the remainder and a concurrent upper respiratory tract infection. All children should undergo radiological investigation after their first confirmed infection. Diagnosis and management could be improved by providing all general practitioners with a semiquantitative method of urine culture such as the dip slide.", "PMID": 445055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6945", "title": "Accuracy of diagnostic content of hospital activity analysis in infectious diseases.", "content": "Hospital activity analysis (HAA) was used to identify 2151 patients in whom the diagnostic code fell within the infectious disease categories of the International Classification of Disease. The clinical notes of these patients were examined by a doctor and in 414 (19.2%) the diagnostic coding was incorrect. Diarrhoea and viral infections were miscoded most often. The possibility of inaccuracy must be considered when HAA aggregated data are used for planning purposes. Accuracy could be improved if clinicians routinely completed the diagnostic sections of the HAA form.", "contents": "Accuracy of diagnostic content of hospital activity analysis in infectious diseases. Hospital activity analysis (HAA) was used to identify 2151 patients in whom the diagnostic code fell within the infectious disease categories of the International Classification of Disease. The clinical notes of these patients were examined by a doctor and in 414 (19.2%) the diagnostic coding was incorrect. Diarrhoea and viral infections were miscoded most often. The possibility of inaccuracy must be considered when HAA aggregated data are used for planning purposes. Accuracy could be improved if clinicians routinely completed the diagnostic sections of the HAA form.", "PMID": 445056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6946", "title": "Management of maternal phenylketonuria: an emerging clinical problem.", "content": "The children of untreated phenylketonuric women have a significantly higher mortality and morbidity than average. The success of neonatal screening for phenylketonuria (PKU) means that an increasing number of healthy intelligent women with PKU are reaching childbearing age and will create a new therapeutic problem for physicians and obstetricians in the next decade. This unit managed six mothers with PKU and treated three of them with diets throughout four pregnancies. The treatment and outcome was assessed in relation to those in other reported cases. Although treatment was beneficial in the four pregnancies studied directly, in all the reported cases the outcome of treatment varied considerably and was not clearly related to any one factor such as onset of treatment or the type of PKU. It is therefore not possible to give confident advice about the management of such cases. Since the number of women at risk will reach a peak in 10 years' time there is an immediate need for a well-planned prospective study of this problem.", "contents": "Management of maternal phenylketonuria: an emerging clinical problem. The children of untreated phenylketonuric women have a significantly higher mortality and morbidity than average. The success of neonatal screening for phenylketonuria (PKU) means that an increasing number of healthy intelligent women with PKU are reaching childbearing age and will create a new therapeutic problem for physicians and obstetricians in the next decade. This unit managed six mothers with PKU and treated three of them with diets throughout four pregnancies. The treatment and outcome was assessed in relation to those in other reported cases. Although treatment was beneficial in the four pregnancies studied directly, in all the reported cases the outcome of treatment varied considerably and was not clearly related to any one factor such as onset of treatment or the type of PKU. It is therefore not possible to give confident advice about the management of such cases. Since the number of women at risk will reach a peak in 10 years' time there is an immediate need for a well-planned prospective study of this problem.", "PMID": 445095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6947", "title": "Evaluation of one-visit endoscopic clinic for patients with dyspepsia.", "content": "An evaluation was made of the feasibility of an instant upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy clinic for patients referred to hospital for the investigation of dyspepsia. A total of 200 patients underwent endoscopy using a small-diameter endoscope with only topical pharyngeal anaesthesia but no premedication or sedation. The procedure was successful in 187 of the patients. Its acceptability was high for both patients and doctors. The average duration of the hospital visit was 45 minutes. Instant endoscopy with a small-diameter endoscope provides a convenient and fast primary diagnostic service for patients with dyspepsia.", "contents": "Evaluation of one-visit endoscopic clinic for patients with dyspepsia. An evaluation was made of the feasibility of an instant upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy clinic for patients referred to hospital for the investigation of dyspepsia. A total of 200 patients underwent endoscopy using a small-diameter endoscope with only topical pharyngeal anaesthesia but no premedication or sedation. The procedure was successful in 187 of the patients. Its acceptability was high for both patients and doctors. The average duration of the hospital visit was 45 minutes. Instant endoscopy with a small-diameter endoscope provides a convenient and fast primary diagnostic service for patients with dyspepsia.", "PMID": 445096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6948", "title": "Hospital antibiotic policy in a health district.", "content": "A hospital antibiotic policy is described in which only a few antibiotics were used over a two-year period. Six antibiotics--namely, ampicillin, cloxacillin, cephradine, penicillin, erythromycin, and oxytetracycline--accounted for 98% of the antibiotics consumed. Gentamicin was not used topically. Apart from high levels of resistance to ampicillin in Staphylococcus aureus (80%), the Enterobacteriaceae (37%), and Bacteroides (83%), antibiotic resistance was not a problem and no major epidemics of cross-infection occurred. With this policy antibiotic consumption declined and the total true cost of the antibiotics fell from 16 361 pounds in 1976 to 10 448 pounds in 1978.", "contents": "Hospital antibiotic policy in a health district. A hospital antibiotic policy is described in which only a few antibiotics were used over a two-year period. Six antibiotics--namely, ampicillin, cloxacillin, cephradine, penicillin, erythromycin, and oxytetracycline--accounted for 98% of the antibiotics consumed. Gentamicin was not used topically. Apart from high levels of resistance to ampicillin in Staphylococcus aureus (80%), the Enterobacteriaceae (37%), and Bacteroides (83%), antibiotic resistance was not a problem and no major epidemics of cross-infection occurred. With this policy antibiotic consumption declined and the total true cost of the antibiotics fell from 16 361 pounds in 1976 to 10 448 pounds in 1978.", "PMID": 445097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6949", "title": "Comparison of central nervous system malformations in spontaneous absortions in Northern Ireland and south-east England.", "content": "A study of 1140 pregnancies ending in spontaneous abortion disclosed a central nervous system (CNS) malformation in 4.9% of all complete conceptuses. Life-table analysis suggested that the incidence of CNS malformations is 16/1000 at the beginning of the eighth week of gestation. It was also estimated that only one-fifth of these infants are born alive, 41% being aborted spontaneously and 38% stillborn. A hypothesis that differences in the incidence of CNS malformations result from area differences in the mortality rate of malformed embryos and fetuses was examined by comparing the findings in Northern Ireland, an area of high incidence, with those in south-east England, an area of low incidence. In Northern Ireland 4.6% of complete conceptuses had a CNS malformation compared with 3.0% in south-east England, but the difference was not statistically significant. There is no evidence that in Northern Ireland a lower mortality rate among malformed fetuses and embryos is responsible for the high incidence of malformation at birth. The geographical variation of CNS malformations in the United Kingdom still awaits explanation.", "contents": "Comparison of central nervous system malformations in spontaneous absortions in Northern Ireland and south-east England. A study of 1140 pregnancies ending in spontaneous abortion disclosed a central nervous system (CNS) malformation in 4.9% of all complete conceptuses. Life-table analysis suggested that the incidence of CNS malformations is 16/1000 at the beginning of the eighth week of gestation. It was also estimated that only one-fifth of these infants are born alive, 41% being aborted spontaneously and 38% stillborn. A hypothesis that differences in the incidence of CNS malformations result from area differences in the mortality rate of malformed embryos and fetuses was examined by comparing the findings in Northern Ireland, an area of high incidence, with those in south-east England, an area of low incidence. In Northern Ireland 4.6% of complete conceptuses had a CNS malformation compared with 3.0% in south-east England, but the difference was not statistically significant. There is no evidence that in Northern Ireland a lower mortality rate among malformed fetuses and embryos is responsible for the high incidence of malformation at birth. The geographical variation of CNS malformations in the United Kingdom still awaits explanation.", "PMID": 445098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6950", "title": "Continuing mortality and morbidity from smallpox vaccination.", "content": "Three cases of cross-infection after smallpox vaccination are described, in two of which the outcome was fatal. Probably all occurred because simple precautions were not observed at the time of vaccination--for example, exclusion of contraindications and warnings about risks. If those countries still requiring evidence of vaccination for entry were to abolish this rule, however, the risk of cross-infection could be eliminated. Vaccinating a person with contraindications is justified only when exposure to smallpox has occurred.", "contents": "Continuing mortality and morbidity from smallpox vaccination. Three cases of cross-infection after smallpox vaccination are described, in two of which the outcome was fatal. Probably all occurred because simple precautions were not observed at the time of vaccination--for example, exclusion of contraindications and warnings about risks. If those countries still requiring evidence of vaccination for entry were to abolish this rule, however, the risk of cross-infection could be eliminated. Vaccinating a person with contraindications is justified only when exposure to smallpox has occurred.", "PMID": 445099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6951", "title": "Intensive care in tetanus: management, complications, and mortality in 100 cases.", "content": "One hundred cases of tetanus were treated in the intensive care unit of Leeds General Infirmary during during 1961--1977. In 90 patients disease was severe enough to require paralysis and artificial ventilation; a further three needed tracheostomy but not paralysis; and in seven the condition was mild, requiring sedation only. Ten patients died, but all deaths were attributable to complications of treatment rather than to the disease itself and were theoretically avoidable. No evidence of permanent neurological damage from tetanus was found. In 65 patients a wound was the source of infection, most of which were minor, often receiving no medical attention. In five patients the source was probably varicose ulcers of the leg. Such patients, if lacking immunity, are at risk, particularly when farming or gardening. Only two patients had received a full course of tetanus toxoid, in one case eight years and in the other three years before injury; neither received a booster dose at the time of injury and in the second tetanus was mild. Of the 35 patients who did seek medical attention at the time of wounding, 21 received prophylactic antibiotics and 25 tetanus toxoid, but none received equine or human antitetanus serum. Early resort to tracheostomy and paralysis in severe tetanus resulted in a favourable mortality of 10% in the series. To implement such a policy full intensive-care facilities, with a trained nurse to care for each patient, must be available at all times.", "contents": "Intensive care in tetanus: management, complications, and mortality in 100 cases. One hundred cases of tetanus were treated in the intensive care unit of Leeds General Infirmary during during 1961--1977. In 90 patients disease was severe enough to require paralysis and artificial ventilation; a further three needed tracheostomy but not paralysis; and in seven the condition was mild, requiring sedation only. Ten patients died, but all deaths were attributable to complications of treatment rather than to the disease itself and were theoretically avoidable. No evidence of permanent neurological damage from tetanus was found. In 65 patients a wound was the source of infection, most of which were minor, often receiving no medical attention. In five patients the source was probably varicose ulcers of the leg. Such patients, if lacking immunity, are at risk, particularly when farming or gardening. Only two patients had received a full course of tetanus toxoid, in one case eight years and in the other three years before injury; neither received a booster dose at the time of injury and in the second tetanus was mild. Of the 35 patients who did seek medical attention at the time of wounding, 21 received prophylactic antibiotics and 25 tetanus toxoid, but none received equine or human antitetanus serum. Early resort to tracheostomy and paralysis in severe tetanus resulted in a favourable mortality of 10% in the series. To implement such a policy full intensive-care facilities, with a trained nurse to care for each patient, must be available at all times.", "PMID": 445102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6952", "title": "Therapeutic effect of oral doxycycline on syphilis.", "content": "Fifty-one patients with syphilis were treated with oral doxycycline. A course of the antibiotic treatment consisted of 200 mg of doxycycline daily in two divided doses for 28 days. The courses were repeated three to four times a year with an interval of several months. Quantitative Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL), Wassermann reaction (WR), and Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay (TPHA) tests were performed monthly to evaluate the therapeutic effect of doxycycline treatment. The response rate was 100% for primary, 90% for early, 68% for late, and 90% for congenital syphilis in adults. No notable side effects were encountered except for epigastric fullness in one patient, which did not require the treatment to be discontinued. No abnormalities were detected in the results of laboratory tests.", "contents": "Therapeutic effect of oral doxycycline on syphilis. Fifty-one patients with syphilis were treated with oral doxycycline. A course of the antibiotic treatment consisted of 200 mg of doxycycline daily in two divided doses for 28 days. The courses were repeated three to four times a year with an interval of several months. Quantitative Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL), Wassermann reaction (WR), and Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay (TPHA) tests were performed monthly to evaluate the therapeutic effect of doxycycline treatment. The response rate was 100% for primary, 90% for early, 68% for late, and 90% for congenital syphilis in adults. No notable side effects were encountered except for epigastric fullness in one patient, which did not require the treatment to be discontinued. No abnormalities were detected in the results of laboratory tests.", "PMID": 445120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6953", "title": "Vaccination for herpes simplex genitalis.", "content": "Type-specific vaccines containing heat-inactivated herpes simplex hominis virus type 1 or 2 have been developed for the treatment of herpes simplex genitalis. When patients with recurrent herpes genitalis were treated with the type 2 vaccine the clinical course of the disease improved and the eruption-free interval was extended. In severe cases, especially in permanent genital herpes, the concurrent administration of vaccine and immunoglobulin concentrates improved the clinical course of the disease. Antibody titres and the in-vitro stimulation of lymphocytes with phytohaemagglutinin or herpes simplex hominis virus antigens remained constant during administration of the vaccine.", "contents": "Vaccination for herpes simplex genitalis. Type-specific vaccines containing heat-inactivated herpes simplex hominis virus type 1 or 2 have been developed for the treatment of herpes simplex genitalis. When patients with recurrent herpes genitalis were treated with the type 2 vaccine the clinical course of the disease improved and the eruption-free interval was extended. In severe cases, especially in permanent genital herpes, the concurrent administration of vaccine and immunoglobulin concentrates improved the clinical course of the disease. Antibody titres and the in-vitro stimulation of lymphocytes with phytohaemagglutinin or herpes simplex hominis virus antigens remained constant during administration of the vaccine.", "PMID": 445121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6954", "title": "Therapeutic aspects of herpes genitalis. A short review.", "content": "The treatment of manifestations of infection by herpes simplex hominis virus must be aimed at both the local eruptions and the mechanism of recurrence. Recently, some success has been achieved with the use of vaccines and other agents to stimulate a cell-mediated immunity in patients with recurrent herpes infection.", "contents": "Therapeutic aspects of herpes genitalis. A short review. The treatment of manifestations of infection by herpes simplex hominis virus must be aimed at both the local eruptions and the mechanism of recurrence. Recently, some success has been achieved with the use of vaccines and other agents to stimulate a cell-mediated immunity in patients with recurrent herpes infection.", "PMID": 445122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6955", "title": "Epidemiology of gonorrhoea and syphilis in South Australia (1966--77).", "content": "Data from the annual general report of the Venereal Disease Control Centre (VDCC) in a state with a population of approximately 1 250 000 people (in 1977), of whom about 1 100 000 live within 25 miles of the centre of Adelaide, the capital city, are presented.", "contents": "Epidemiology of gonorrhoea and syphilis in South Australia (1966--77). Data from the annual general report of the Venereal Disease Control Centre (VDCC) in a state with a population of approximately 1 250 000 people (in 1977), of whom about 1 100 000 live within 25 miles of the centre of Adelaide, the capital city, are presented.", "PMID": 445123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6956", "title": "Epidemiological importance of concealed nongonococcal urethritis.", "content": "Of the 229 806 new male patients attending venereal disease clinics in England in 1976, 31.9% had recognisable non-specific genital infection (NSGI), which was easily the most common diagnostic category of the sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and one which had increased more markedly than all the others in the previous 25 years. Many more cases of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) are concealed under the diagnosis of gonorrhoea, as is clear from the high incidence of post-gonococcal infection following treatment with penicillin. From 44% to 56% of male patients with gonorrhoea can also have non-specific genital infection during the same year. A practical treatment schedule for gonorrhoea which is also effective against simultaneously acquired non-gonococcal urethritis would be of great value.", "contents": "Epidemiological importance of concealed nongonococcal urethritis. Of the 229 806 new male patients attending venereal disease clinics in England in 1976, 31.9% had recognisable non-specific genital infection (NSGI), which was easily the most common diagnostic category of the sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and one which had increased more markedly than all the others in the previous 25 years. Many more cases of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) are concealed under the diagnosis of gonorrhoea, as is clear from the high incidence of post-gonococcal infection following treatment with penicillin. From 44% to 56% of male patients with gonorrhoea can also have non-specific genital infection during the same year. A practical treatment schedule for gonorrhoea which is also effective against simultaneously acquired non-gonococcal urethritis would be of great value.", "PMID": 445126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6957", "title": "Attenuated yaws in Surinam.", "content": "Results of a pilot survey in the central, northern region of Surinam indicate that yaws is prevalent (hypoendemic) in this part of the country. No classical symptoms of yaws were seen. The observed lesions were scanty or solitary, dry papillomatous, or macular and scaly, which fits into the clinical picture of attenuated endemic treponematosis.", "contents": "Attenuated yaws in Surinam. Results of a pilot survey in the central, northern region of Surinam indicate that yaws is prevalent (hypoendemic) in this part of the country. No classical symptoms of yaws were seen. The observed lesions were scanty or solitary, dry papillomatous, or macular and scaly, which fits into the clinical picture of attenuated endemic treponematosis.", "PMID": 445127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6958", "title": "Myelin protein composition in the rat spinal cord in culture and in vivo: a developmental comparison.", "content": "Biochemical characterization of the development of myelin in vitro was extended to an analysis of myelin protein composition in cultures of explanted foetal rat spinal cord. Myelin fractions were isolated from pooled explants after 12-30 days in vitro and, for comparison, from the spinal cords of rats of equivalent developmental ages. Electron microscopic examination of the culture myelin fractions revealed the presence of multilamellar myelin fragments and some single membranes. All fractions were analyzed using a micro-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis technique. Qualitatively similar protein profiles were observed for myelin isolated from either cultures or from spinal cords. Fractions from cultures contained a greater proportion of high molecular weight proteins than those from spinal cords, although with respect to the 'major' myelin proteins, a quantitatively similar developmental pattern was observed both in vivo and in vitro.", "contents": "Myelin protein composition in the rat spinal cord in culture and in vivo: a developmental comparison. Biochemical characterization of the development of myelin in vitro was extended to an analysis of myelin protein composition in cultures of explanted foetal rat spinal cord. Myelin fractions were isolated from pooled explants after 12-30 days in vitro and, for comparison, from the spinal cords of rats of equivalent developmental ages. Electron microscopic examination of the culture myelin fractions revealed the presence of multilamellar myelin fragments and some single membranes. All fractions were analyzed using a micro-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis technique. Qualitatively similar protein profiles were observed for myelin isolated from either cultures or from spinal cords. Fractions from cultures contained a greater proportion of high molecular weight proteins than those from spinal cords, although with respect to the 'major' myelin proteins, a quantitatively similar developmental pattern was observed both in vivo and in vitro.", "PMID": 445128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6959", "title": "Rapid loss of nicotine-cholinergic receptor binding activity in the deafferented avian optic lobe.", "content": "The levels of alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BuTX) sensitive receptor sites were investigated in the optic lobe after optic deafferentation in the neonatal and adult chicken. Within two days a 30% loss of alpha-BuTX binding sites per optic lobe is observed in the neonatal chick after enucleation. The results are similar with the adult chicken in experiments where the receptor binding activity is measured in the optic lobe and in the optic tectum after enucleation. The possibility that acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the vertebrate retinotectal pathway is discussed.", "contents": "Rapid loss of nicotine-cholinergic receptor binding activity in the deafferented avian optic lobe. The levels of alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BuTX) sensitive receptor sites were investigated in the optic lobe after optic deafferentation in the neonatal and adult chicken. Within two days a 30% loss of alpha-BuTX binding sites per optic lobe is observed in the neonatal chick after enucleation. The results are similar with the adult chicken in experiments where the receptor binding activity is measured in the optic lobe and in the optic tectum after enucleation. The possibility that acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the vertebrate retinotectal pathway is discussed.", "PMID": 445129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6960", "title": "Response properties of units in the lateral geniculate nucleus of the domestic chick (Gallus domesticus).", "content": "One hundred and four visual units of the (ventral) lateral geniculate nucleus (GL) of chicks (Gallus domesticus) were studied with extracellular microelectrodes. Most were extremely responsive to moving targets even at low speeds (0.1 degrees/sec). They were classified as follows. (1) movement-sensitive units with uniform, restricted receptive fields (47%). (2) Movement-sensitive units with small receptive fields possessing regions responding to differing modes of stimulation ('center-periphery units'). (3) Movement-sensitive neurons with uniform, wide receptive fields, larger than 75 degrees x 65 degrees (15%). (4) Movement-insensitive cells, responsive only to illumination changes (7%). (5) Units with indeterminate receptive fields, a poor visual response or a poor response to movement (14%). The firing of neurons in classes I-III was mostly an accurate function of target speed; half of them also provided accurate monitoring of the beginning, course and termination of target movement (tonic units). In view of the above, the high proportion of directionally selective cells (31%) and the large size of many of its receptive fields, the GL is considered as a candidate structure for optomotor integration but the evidence is otherwise scant. There is, however, an apparent contribution to its unit properties from both retinal ganglion cells and neurons from different tectal layers. Whatever its role, it is unlikely to be the functional homologue to the mammalian ventral lateral geniculate as the unit properties of two structures differ substantially.", "contents": "Response properties of units in the lateral geniculate nucleus of the domestic chick (Gallus domesticus). One hundred and four visual units of the (ventral) lateral geniculate nucleus (GL) of chicks (Gallus domesticus) were studied with extracellular microelectrodes. Most were extremely responsive to moving targets even at low speeds (0.1 degrees/sec). They were classified as follows. (1) movement-sensitive units with uniform, restricted receptive fields (47%). (2) Movement-sensitive units with small receptive fields possessing regions responding to differing modes of stimulation ('center-periphery units'). (3) Movement-sensitive neurons with uniform, wide receptive fields, larger than 75 degrees x 65 degrees (15%). (4) Movement-insensitive cells, responsive only to illumination changes (7%). (5) Units with indeterminate receptive fields, a poor visual response or a poor response to movement (14%). The firing of neurons in classes I-III was mostly an accurate function of target speed; half of them also provided accurate monitoring of the beginning, course and termination of target movement (tonic units). In view of the above, the high proportion of directionally selective cells (31%) and the large size of many of its receptive fields, the GL is considered as a candidate structure for optomotor integration but the evidence is otherwise scant. There is, however, an apparent contribution to its unit properties from both retinal ganglion cells and neurons from different tectal layers. Whatever its role, it is unlikely to be the functional homologue to the mammalian ventral lateral geniculate as the unit properties of two structures differ substantially.", "PMID": 445130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6961", "title": "Enhancement of GABA-mediated postsynaptic inhibition in cultured mammalian spinal cord neurons: a common mode of anticonvulsant action.", "content": "Murine spinal cord neurons grown in dissociated cell culture were used to study the effects of barbiturate (phenobarbital, mephobarbital) and benzodiazepine (diazepam, chlordiazepoxide( anticonvulsants on amino acid responses. Both types of anticonvulsant augmented GABA-mediated postsynaptic inhibition without augmenting beta-alanine or glycine-mediated postsynaptic inhibition. Barbiturates, but not benzodiazepines, antagonized glutamate-mediated postsynaptic excitation. Augmentation of GABA-mediated inhibition by the anticonvulsants should contribute to their anticonvulsant action; antagonism of glutamate-mediated excitation by barbiturates should also contribute to their anticonvulsant action and could be at least in part responsible for their sedative actions.", "contents": "Enhancement of GABA-mediated postsynaptic inhibition in cultured mammalian spinal cord neurons: a common mode of anticonvulsant action. Murine spinal cord neurons grown in dissociated cell culture were used to study the effects of barbiturate (phenobarbital, mephobarbital) and benzodiazepine (diazepam, chlordiazepoxide( anticonvulsants on amino acid responses. Both types of anticonvulsant augmented GABA-mediated postsynaptic inhibition without augmenting beta-alanine or glycine-mediated postsynaptic inhibition. Barbiturates, but not benzodiazepines, antagonized glutamate-mediated postsynaptic excitation. Augmentation of GABA-mediated inhibition by the anticonvulsants should contribute to their anticonvulsant action; antagonism of glutamate-mediated excitation by barbiturates should also contribute to their anticonvulsant action and could be at least in part responsible for their sedative actions.", "PMID": 445132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6962", "title": "Differential effects of veratridine and potassium depolarization on neuronal and glial GABA release.", "content": "The effect of veratridine and potassium depolarization on the release of [3H]GABA from neural tissues in which GABA uptake is neuronal (cerebrocortical slices and frog retina) or glial (rat retina, spinal and sympathetic ganglia) was studied. The 'neuronal' but not the 'glial' release of [3H]GABA was greatly increased by KC1 (25 mM) and veratridine (10 microM). The 'neuronal' release of [3H]GABA evoked with KC1 was calcium dependent but the small potassium induced increase in 'glial' release were not reduced in the absence of calcium ions even when additional Mg2+ was included in the medium. Surprisingly, the veratridine induced release of [3H]GABA from cortical slices was greatly potentiated in calcium free medium although the release of [3H]noradrenaline produced by veratridine was calcium dependent. Because of the insensitivity of the glial GABA release mechanism to potassium depolarization, it is concluded that release of endogenous GABA from glial pools in response to physiological increases in extracellular potassium is unlikely to be important.", "contents": "Differential effects of veratridine and potassium depolarization on neuronal and glial GABA release. The effect of veratridine and potassium depolarization on the release of [3H]GABA from neural tissues in which GABA uptake is neuronal (cerebrocortical slices and frog retina) or glial (rat retina, spinal and sympathetic ganglia) was studied. The 'neuronal' but not the 'glial' release of [3H]GABA was greatly increased by KC1 (25 mM) and veratridine (10 microM). The 'neuronal' release of [3H]GABA evoked with KC1 was calcium dependent but the small potassium induced increase in 'glial' release were not reduced in the absence of calcium ions even when additional Mg2+ was included in the medium. Surprisingly, the veratridine induced release of [3H]GABA from cortical slices was greatly potentiated in calcium free medium although the release of [3H]noradrenaline produced by veratridine was calcium dependent. Because of the insensitivity of the glial GABA release mechanism to potassium depolarization, it is concluded that release of endogenous GABA from glial pools in response to physiological increases in extracellular potassium is unlikely to be important.", "PMID": 445133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6963", "title": "Intercellular junctions and the development of the blood-brain barrier in Manduca sexta.", "content": "In early embryonic development of the tobacco horn moth no blood-brain barrier is present, as shown by the unimpeded entry of exogenous tracers into the nervous system. However, later on, just before hatching, lanthanum and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) are unable to move inwardly beyond the level of the perineurium, which is the morphological site of the blood--brain barrier in the adult moth, as well as in other insects. Freeze-fracture studies indicate that in the early embryo, 10 nm particles are scattered about in the perineurial membrane PF, either as separate entities or as short linear arrays. By hatching or just before, however, the 10 nm particles have become aligned into lengthy linear aggregates as PF ridges with EF grooves. These would appear to be the simple, arthropod-form of tight junction, and are presumed to be the basis of the perineurial blood-brain barrier. At about the same time, gap junctional elements appear both between adjacent perineurial cells and between glial cells. In both cell types, the gap junctions form from free 13 nm EF particles which gradually become aligned or clumped into strands and aggregates which ultimately coalesce to form first irregular masses and then the macular plaques typical of mature gap junctions. Many of the latter stages are coincident with the hatching of a motile larvae, so that the perineurial and glial cells are by this stage coupled via the channels of the gap junctional particles. They are therefore able to undergo both ionic and metabolic exchange and cooperation during larval life, in addition to being able to respond to hormonal substances in an integrated way. During the 5 larval instars more gap junctions form as the perineurial layer grows thicker. These junctions become more regular in outline and their particles more tightly packed; these larval structures are compared with junctions found in the adult which tend to be more extensive but otherwise similar. Since no septate junctions are apparent during Manduca embryonic or larval life when the blood-brain barrier forms, nor in adults, the results of this report support the contention that it is the tight junctions rather than septate ones which form the basis of permeability barriers in this, and probably other, arthropod systems.", "contents": "Intercellular junctions and the development of the blood-brain barrier in Manduca sexta. In early embryonic development of the tobacco horn moth no blood-brain barrier is present, as shown by the unimpeded entry of exogenous tracers into the nervous system. However, later on, just before hatching, lanthanum and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) are unable to move inwardly beyond the level of the perineurium, which is the morphological site of the blood--brain barrier in the adult moth, as well as in other insects. Freeze-fracture studies indicate that in the early embryo, 10 nm particles are scattered about in the perineurial membrane PF, either as separate entities or as short linear arrays. By hatching or just before, however, the 10 nm particles have become aligned into lengthy linear aggregates as PF ridges with EF grooves. These would appear to be the simple, arthropod-form of tight junction, and are presumed to be the basis of the perineurial blood-brain barrier. At about the same time, gap junctional elements appear both between adjacent perineurial cells and between glial cells. In both cell types, the gap junctions form from free 13 nm EF particles which gradually become aligned or clumped into strands and aggregates which ultimately coalesce to form first irregular masses and then the macular plaques typical of mature gap junctions. Many of the latter stages are coincident with the hatching of a motile larvae, so that the perineurial and glial cells are by this stage coupled via the channels of the gap junctional particles. They are therefore able to undergo both ionic and metabolic exchange and cooperation during larval life, in addition to being able to respond to hormonal substances in an integrated way. During the 5 larval instars more gap junctions form as the perineurial layer grows thicker. These junctions become more regular in outline and their particles more tightly packed; these larval structures are compared with junctions found in the adult which tend to be more extensive but otherwise similar. Since no septate junctions are apparent during Manduca embryonic or larval life when the blood-brain barrier forms, nor in adults, the results of this report support the contention that it is the tight junctions rather than septate ones which form the basis of permeability barriers in this, and probably other, arthropod systems.", "PMID": 445142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6964", "title": "An 125I-labeled binding probe for the muscarinic cholinergic receptor.", "content": "We describe the synthesis and characterization of [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate), a binding probe for the muscarinic cholinergic receptor of high specific radioactivity. The binding isotherm of this 125I-labeled compound to a rat synaptic plasma membrane-enriched fraction consists of two components: a 'specific' component which is saturable and closely fits hyperbolic binding to a single class of sites as evaluated by Scatchard analysis (Kd = 1.5 to 3 nM), and a linear component which may be measured directly by preincubating membranes in 0.1 microM 3-quinuclidinyl-benzilate, the most potent muscarinic antagonist known. The specific binding of [3-3H]3-quinuclidinyl-benzilate and [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate) to rat brain subcellular fractions is parallel in myelin, synaptic plasma membrane and mitochondrial fractions with a 3--4-fold enrichment observed in synaptic plasma membrane over crude mitochondrial fractions. The concentrations of muscarinic antagonists required to block [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate) binding parallel that reported for tritiated binding probes and are consistent with physiological measurements of their dissociation constants. Because of the high specific radioactivity of [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate), this iodinated binding probe should prove useful in assaying low levels of muscarinic receptor in tissue culture and other biological sources.", "contents": "An 125I-labeled binding probe for the muscarinic cholinergic receptor. We describe the synthesis and characterization of [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate), a binding probe for the muscarinic cholinergic receptor of high specific radioactivity. The binding isotherm of this 125I-labeled compound to a rat synaptic plasma membrane-enriched fraction consists of two components: a 'specific' component which is saturable and closely fits hyperbolic binding to a single class of sites as evaluated by Scatchard analysis (Kd = 1.5 to 3 nM), and a linear component which may be measured directly by preincubating membranes in 0.1 microM 3-quinuclidinyl-benzilate, the most potent muscarinic antagonist known. The specific binding of [3-3H]3-quinuclidinyl-benzilate and [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate) to rat brain subcellular fractions is parallel in myelin, synaptic plasma membrane and mitochondrial fractions with a 3--4-fold enrichment observed in synaptic plasma membrane over crude mitochondrial fractions. The concentrations of muscarinic antagonists required to block [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate) binding parallel that reported for tritiated binding probes and are consistent with physiological measurements of their dissociation constants. Because of the high specific radioactivity of [125I]3-quinuclidinyl-(3-iodo-4-hydroxy-benzilate), this iodinated binding probe should prove useful in assaying low levels of muscarinic receptor in tissue culture and other biological sources.", "PMID": 445143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6965", "title": "Characterization of the calcium-induced disruption of neurofilaments in rat peripheral nerve.", "content": "Transverse frozen sections of desheathed rat peripheral nerve were incubated in media of different composition prior to fixation and processing for electron microscopic examination. Neurofilaments remained intact when these tissues were incubated in calcium-free media. A loss of neurofilaments and their replacement by granular debris occurred in myelinated and unmyelinated fibers following incubation in media containing 2 mM calcium. The calcium-mediated disruption of neurofilaments was inhibited by preincubation or incubation with 1 mM p-chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB). The inhibition by preincubation with PCMB could be partially reversed by subsequent preincubation with 10 mM dithioerythritol (DTE). Calcium-mediated breakdown of neurofilaments did not occur after prolonged preincubation in calcium-free media, a finding which suggested that neurofilament disruption was dependent upon a tissue factor which could be lost or inactivated in frozen-sectioned nerve tissues. The findings of the present study provide morphological evidence that neurofilament disruption in mammalian peripheral nerve is mediated by a calcium-activated, PCMB-sensitive enzyme in the axoplasm of myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers.", "contents": "Characterization of the calcium-induced disruption of neurofilaments in rat peripheral nerve. Transverse frozen sections of desheathed rat peripheral nerve were incubated in media of different composition prior to fixation and processing for electron microscopic examination. Neurofilaments remained intact when these tissues were incubated in calcium-free media. A loss of neurofilaments and their replacement by granular debris occurred in myelinated and unmyelinated fibers following incubation in media containing 2 mM calcium. The calcium-mediated disruption of neurofilaments was inhibited by preincubation or incubation with 1 mM p-chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB). The inhibition by preincubation with PCMB could be partially reversed by subsequent preincubation with 10 mM dithioerythritol (DTE). Calcium-mediated breakdown of neurofilaments did not occur after prolonged preincubation in calcium-free media, a finding which suggested that neurofilament disruption was dependent upon a tissue factor which could be lost or inactivated in frozen-sectioned nerve tissues. The findings of the present study provide morphological evidence that neurofilament disruption in mammalian peripheral nerve is mediated by a calcium-activated, PCMB-sensitive enzyme in the axoplasm of myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers.", "PMID": 445144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6966", "title": "An autoradiographic study of the chick brain after imprinting.", "content": "On the first day after hatching domestic chicks were exposed to an imprinting stimulus, a horizontal yellow slit of light moving upwards in a window and presented at a rate of 4 slits/sec. Chicks were exposed for either 45 min (undertrained) or 180 min (overtrained) on the first day of hatching (60 or 240 min in the case of 1 pair). On the second day all birds were exposed for a further 63 min. Twenty birds were matched in pairs and each chick received 1.1 muCi [14C]uracil/g body weight injected into the heart region before exposure on day 2. At 150 min after the injection the chicks were decapitated and serial coronal sections of their brains cut; alternate pairs of sections were prepared for autoradiography. The optical density for a number of major anatomical regions was measured. The measurements for each region were averaged over congruent to 0.6 mm 'slabs' of brain and expressed as a percentage of the mean of all measurements for that brain. Standardized mean optical density was significantly greater in undertrained chicks than in overtrained chicks in a part of the medial region of hyperstriatum ventrale (MHV) which extended across two adjacent slabs. The slabs were slightly posterior to the mid-point between anterior and posterior poles of the brain. In the next two, adjacent, anterior slabs the variances for MHV were significantly greater in undertrained chicks than in overtrained chicks. There were no other significant differences between brain regions. Taken together with previous studies these results suggest that the intermediate and medial part of hyperstriatum ventrale is intimately linked with the imprinting process.", "contents": "An autoradiographic study of the chick brain after imprinting. On the first day after hatching domestic chicks were exposed to an imprinting stimulus, a horizontal yellow slit of light moving upwards in a window and presented at a rate of 4 slits/sec. Chicks were exposed for either 45 min (undertrained) or 180 min (overtrained) on the first day of hatching (60 or 240 min in the case of 1 pair). On the second day all birds were exposed for a further 63 min. Twenty birds were matched in pairs and each chick received 1.1 muCi [14C]uracil/g body weight injected into the heart region before exposure on day 2. At 150 min after the injection the chicks were decapitated and serial coronal sections of their brains cut; alternate pairs of sections were prepared for autoradiography. The optical density for a number of major anatomical regions was measured. The measurements for each region were averaged over congruent to 0.6 mm 'slabs' of brain and expressed as a percentage of the mean of all measurements for that brain. Standardized mean optical density was significantly greater in undertrained chicks than in overtrained chicks in a part of the medial region of hyperstriatum ventrale (MHV) which extended across two adjacent slabs. The slabs were slightly posterior to the mid-point between anterior and posterior poles of the brain. In the next two, adjacent, anterior slabs the variances for MHV were significantly greater in undertrained chicks than in overtrained chicks. There were no other significant differences between brain regions. Taken together with previous studies these results suggest that the intermediate and medial part of hyperstriatum ventrale is intimately linked with the imprinting process.", "PMID": 445146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6967", "title": "Morphology of dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice.", "content": "Dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice (13--18 days gestational age) can be maintained for up to two months in culture. Cells grow as either isolated neurons or in small neuronal aggregates. Neurons remain small with a soma diameter of 15--20 micrometer even in mature cultures and develop extensively branched processes during the first two weeks in culture. After this time, processes become more difficult to visualize with phase-contrast optics because of a tendency to grow within the underlying non-neuronal cells. However, the presence of processes has been proved by silver-staining which demonstrates an organizational complexity ranging from a loosely reticulated neuropil to fascicles containing many fibers. More detailed study of individual neuronal morphology was carried out in cells filled with the fluorescent dye, Lucifer Yellow CH, in conjunction with the intracellular recording of synaptic and action potentials from dye-containing micropipettes. Dye-filled cells show a well-developed branching morphology. Process specializations include spines, beading, and basket-like endings. Processes tend to emanate from one side of the soma, either originating at the cell body or from a single trunk. Commonly there are 2--4 orders of branching, but up to 6 orders can occur (counted centrifugally from the soma). Electron microscopy revealed synapses distributed predominantly on dendrites with a smaller number on somata. Dendritic spines are present and are contacted principally by asymmetric synaptic junctions. Symmetric synapses are relatively more common on somata and proximal dendrites.", "contents": "Morphology of dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice. Dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice (13--18 days gestational age) can be maintained for up to two months in culture. Cells grow as either isolated neurons or in small neuronal aggregates. Neurons remain small with a soma diameter of 15--20 micrometer even in mature cultures and develop extensively branched processes during the first two weeks in culture. After this time, processes become more difficult to visualize with phase-contrast optics because of a tendency to grow within the underlying non-neuronal cells. However, the presence of processes has been proved by silver-staining which demonstrates an organizational complexity ranging from a loosely reticulated neuropil to fascicles containing many fibers. More detailed study of individual neuronal morphology was carried out in cells filled with the fluorescent dye, Lucifer Yellow CH, in conjunction with the intracellular recording of synaptic and action potentials from dye-containing micropipettes. Dye-filled cells show a well-developed branching morphology. Process specializations include spines, beading, and basket-like endings. Processes tend to emanate from one side of the soma, either originating at the cell body or from a single trunk. Commonly there are 2--4 orders of branching, but up to 6 orders can occur (counted centrifugally from the soma). Electron microscopy revealed synapses distributed predominantly on dendrites with a smaller number on somata. Dendritic spines are present and are contacted principally by asymmetric synaptic junctions. Symmetric synapses are relatively more common on somata and proximal dendrites.", "PMID": 445155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6968", "title": "Electrophysiology of dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice.", "content": "Action potentials, postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) and burst potentials have been recorded intracellularly from over 200 neurons in hippocampal cell cultures prepared from fetal mice of 13-18 days gestational age. Repetitively firing action potentials are elicited by intracellular electrical stimulation and often are preceded by stereotyped prepotentials which probably are generated on processes remote from the cell body. In some cells, action potentials are succeeded by long duration depolarizing afterpotentials (0.3--2 sec) with additional superimposed action potentials. Postburst afterhyperpolarization can last up to 2.5 sec. Action potentials are short (0.6--1.2 msec) with peak rates of rise from 64 to 267 V/sec (mean 139 +/- 13 V/sec, 24 cells) and corresponding rates of fall from 21 to 133 V/sec (mean 70 +/- 7 V/sec, 24 cells). Following single action potentials, the afterhyperpolarization is usually less than 10 msec. Inhibitory PSPs occur frequently (up to 70% incidence), have reversal potentials of--30 to--40 mV, and can be evoked in synaptically coupled cell pairs. Excitatory PSPs can initiate prepotentials and action potentials, suggesting dendritic and somatic loci respectively. Neural networks exhibit a broad range of electrophysiologic phenomenology including reciprocal innervation, multiple innervation and synchronous bursting among a widespread population of neurons.", "contents": "Electrophysiology of dissociated hippocampal cultures from fetal mice. Action potentials, postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) and burst potentials have been recorded intracellularly from over 200 neurons in hippocampal cell cultures prepared from fetal mice of 13-18 days gestational age. Repetitively firing action potentials are elicited by intracellular electrical stimulation and often are preceded by stereotyped prepotentials which probably are generated on processes remote from the cell body. In some cells, action potentials are succeeded by long duration depolarizing afterpotentials (0.3--2 sec) with additional superimposed action potentials. Postburst afterhyperpolarization can last up to 2.5 sec. Action potentials are short (0.6--1.2 msec) with peak rates of rise from 64 to 267 V/sec (mean 139 +/- 13 V/sec, 24 cells) and corresponding rates of fall from 21 to 133 V/sec (mean 70 +/- 7 V/sec, 24 cells). Following single action potentials, the afterhyperpolarization is usually less than 10 msec. Inhibitory PSPs occur frequently (up to 70% incidence), have reversal potentials of--30 to--40 mV, and can be evoked in synaptically coupled cell pairs. Excitatory PSPs can initiate prepotentials and action potentials, suggesting dendritic and somatic loci respectively. Neural networks exhibit a broad range of electrophysiologic phenomenology including reciprocal innervation, multiple innervation and synchronous bursting among a widespread population of neurons.", "PMID": 445156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6969", "title": "Morphology of catecholamine-containing amacrine cells in the cat's retina, as seen in retinal whole mounts.", "content": "The morphology of catecholaminergic cells of the cat's retina was studied by fluorescence microscopy of retinal whole mounts. Although varied in soma shape, these cells seem to represent a single group of cells with an average soma diameter of 14.5 micrometer in freeze-dried material. The fluorescent terminals of these cells formed a striking two-dimensional pattern: a significant portion of them appeared to be arranged in rings located at the boundary of the inner plexiform and inner nuclear layers. The mean diameter of these rings was 9.7 micrometer and their pattern appeared to extend unbroken across the retina. It was, in general, not possible to observe the connection between these rings and fluorescent somas, except when a ring was in a juxtasomatic position. It is suggested that the postsynaptic somas within these rings are either of other amacrines or of interplexiform cells. Using the Golgi-Colonnier technique on retinal whole mounts, an attempt was made to identify the cell type which resembles the catecholaminergic cell in its size, location and morphology. The suggested cell type appears to be among the largest amacrine cells, (mean soma size of 11.5 micrometer in Golgi material) with a considerable dendritic network at the border of the inner plexiform and inner nuclear layers, although there are branches reaching as far as the middle of the inner plexiform layer.", "contents": "Morphology of catecholamine-containing amacrine cells in the cat's retina, as seen in retinal whole mounts. The morphology of catecholaminergic cells of the cat's retina was studied by fluorescence microscopy of retinal whole mounts. Although varied in soma shape, these cells seem to represent a single group of cells with an average soma diameter of 14.5 micrometer in freeze-dried material. The fluorescent terminals of these cells formed a striking two-dimensional pattern: a significant portion of them appeared to be arranged in rings located at the boundary of the inner plexiform and inner nuclear layers. The mean diameter of these rings was 9.7 micrometer and their pattern appeared to extend unbroken across the retina. It was, in general, not possible to observe the connection between these rings and fluorescent somas, except when a ring was in a juxtasomatic position. It is suggested that the postsynaptic somas within these rings are either of other amacrines or of interplexiform cells. Using the Golgi-Colonnier technique on retinal whole mounts, an attempt was made to identify the cell type which resembles the catecholaminergic cell in its size, location and morphology. The suggested cell type appears to be among the largest amacrine cells, (mean soma size of 11.5 micrometer in Golgi material) with a considerable dendritic network at the border of the inner plexiform and inner nuclear layers, although there are branches reaching as far as the middle of the inner plexiform layer.", "PMID": 445157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6970", "title": "Regional differences in the timing of synapse elimination in skeletal muscles of the neonatal rabbit.", "content": "The time course of disappearance of polyneuronal innervation during development was studied electrophysiologically in skeletal muscles of the rabbit. There were differences of up to a week in the estimated time of onset of synapse elimination in various muscles, with a tendency for the process to begin earlier in muscles situated more anteriorly in the body. There were also differences among muscles in the peak rate of synapse loss during maturation, but these differences do not appear to be related to position in the body or to contractile properties of the muscle.", "contents": "Regional differences in the timing of synapse elimination in skeletal muscles of the neonatal rabbit. The time course of disappearance of polyneuronal innervation during development was studied electrophysiologically in skeletal muscles of the rabbit. There were differences of up to a week in the estimated time of onset of synapse elimination in various muscles, with a tendency for the process to begin earlier in muscles situated more anteriorly in the body. There were also differences among muscles in the peak rate of synapse loss during maturation, but these differences do not appear to be related to position in the body or to contractile properties of the muscle.", "PMID": 445158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6971", "title": "Electrophysiological studies on the neural networks among estrogen and progesterone effective brain areas on lordosis behavior of the rat.", "content": "The present study was performed in an attempt to elucidate the possible neural networks and their functional modification by progesterone among estrogen and progesterone effective brain areas for lordosis behavior of the rat. Single and multiple unit activities were recorded in the medial preoptic area (MPO), dorsomedial thalamic nucleus (MD), interpeduncular nucleus (IP) and ventral part of midbrain reticular formation (MRF), and single or train pulse stimulation was applied to the MPI, MD, IP, MRF, caudate-putamen (CP), habenular nucleus (HB), dorsal hippocampus (HPC), medial and lateral septum (m- and 1-SEPT) and lateral amygdala (1-AMYG). Unit activity was recorded under urethane anesthesia in ovariectomized rats pretreated with estrogen or with estrogen and progesterone. MPO units showed facilitatory responses to stimulation in the MRF, HB and 1-SEPT, and inhibitory responses to stimulation in the MD, HPC, m-SEPT and 1-AMYG in ovariectomized estrogen-primed rats. CP stimulation inhibited the MD unit activity. Stimulation in the IP had no effect on the MPO or MD units, while the IP units were affected by stimulation in the MPO, MD, CP and HB. MRF unit was accelerated by the MD and CP and inhibited by the MPO stimulation. In the ovariectomized, estrogen and progesterone-treated rat, the MPO unit responses to the MRF and MD stimulation, and the MD unit responses to the MRF and CP stimulation were different from those in the rat with only estrogen treatment. In addition, in the ovariectomized estrogen-primed rat, local application of progesterone to the MD prevented the inhibitory effect of the MD on the MPO unit. Progesterone, when given to the stimulated brain area, accelerated the MPO unit which was activated by the MRF stimulation, and inhibited the MD neuron which was inhibited by the CP stimulation. Multiple unit recordings showed similar results. Moreover, multi-unit activity in the HB and IP was elevated following a systemic progesterone application. On the basis of these results, the possible neural networks in the brain which participate in the lordosis control mechanisms are discussed.", "contents": "Electrophysiological studies on the neural networks among estrogen and progesterone effective brain areas on lordosis behavior of the rat. The present study was performed in an attempt to elucidate the possible neural networks and their functional modification by progesterone among estrogen and progesterone effective brain areas for lordosis behavior of the rat. Single and multiple unit activities were recorded in the medial preoptic area (MPO), dorsomedial thalamic nucleus (MD), interpeduncular nucleus (IP) and ventral part of midbrain reticular formation (MRF), and single or train pulse stimulation was applied to the MPI, MD, IP, MRF, caudate-putamen (CP), habenular nucleus (HB), dorsal hippocampus (HPC), medial and lateral septum (m- and 1-SEPT) and lateral amygdala (1-AMYG). Unit activity was recorded under urethane anesthesia in ovariectomized rats pretreated with estrogen or with estrogen and progesterone. MPO units showed facilitatory responses to stimulation in the MRF, HB and 1-SEPT, and inhibitory responses to stimulation in the MD, HPC, m-SEPT and 1-AMYG in ovariectomized estrogen-primed rats. CP stimulation inhibited the MD unit activity. Stimulation in the IP had no effect on the MPO or MD units, while the IP units were affected by stimulation in the MPO, MD, CP and HB. MRF unit was accelerated by the MD and CP and inhibited by the MPO stimulation. In the ovariectomized, estrogen and progesterone-treated rat, the MPO unit responses to the MRF and MD stimulation, and the MD unit responses to the MRF and CP stimulation were different from those in the rat with only estrogen treatment. In addition, in the ovariectomized estrogen-primed rat, local application of progesterone to the MD prevented the inhibitory effect of the MD on the MPO unit. Progesterone, when given to the stimulated brain area, accelerated the MPO unit which was activated by the MRF stimulation, and inhibited the MD neuron which was inhibited by the CP stimulation. Multiple unit recordings showed similar results. Moreover, multi-unit activity in the HB and IP was elevated following a systemic progesterone application. On the basis of these results, the possible neural networks in the brain which participate in the lordosis control mechanisms are discussed.", "PMID": 445159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6972", "title": "Influences of pituitary-adrenal hormones on kindling.", "content": "The kindling process represents a progressively augmenting electrical and behavioral response to brain stimulation, that has been proposed as a model for the development of epileptogenesis. The first experiment examined the effects of hypophysectomy on the kindling process. The effects of hypophysectomy were found to be dependent on the number of days between hypophysectomy and the beginning of kindling. The kindling rate was slowed, compared to intact controls, when hypophysectomy was performed less than 2 weeks prior to the first kindling stimulation. However, if more than 4 weeks and passed since hypophysectomy, the kindling rate was faster than that of intact controls. The second experiment tested the influence of systemic administration of cortisone (10 mg/animal), upon kindling of control and hypophysectomized animals. Cortisone was found to reverse the kindling deficit of hypophysectomized animals at less than 2 weeks and to slow kindling of intact controls, but to have no effect on hypophysectomized animals at more than 4 weeks (at this dose). These results are interpreted as indicating that pituitary-adrenal hormones have profound influences on the kindling process, but it is unclear whether the influence is upon brain excitability or more directly upon modification of synaptic function.", "contents": "Influences of pituitary-adrenal hormones on kindling. The kindling process represents a progressively augmenting electrical and behavioral response to brain stimulation, that has been proposed as a model for the development of epileptogenesis. The first experiment examined the effects of hypophysectomy on the kindling process. The effects of hypophysectomy were found to be dependent on the number of days between hypophysectomy and the beginning of kindling. The kindling rate was slowed, compared to intact controls, when hypophysectomy was performed less than 2 weeks prior to the first kindling stimulation. However, if more than 4 weeks and passed since hypophysectomy, the kindling rate was faster than that of intact controls. The second experiment tested the influence of systemic administration of cortisone (10 mg/animal), upon kindling of control and hypophysectomized animals. Cortisone was found to reverse the kindling deficit of hypophysectomized animals at less than 2 weeks and to slow kindling of intact controls, but to have no effect on hypophysectomized animals at more than 4 weeks (at this dose). These results are interpreted as indicating that pituitary-adrenal hormones have profound influences on the kindling process, but it is unclear whether the influence is upon brain excitability or more directly upon modification of synaptic function.", "PMID": 445160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6973", "title": "Aging and unusual catecholamine-containing structures in the mouse brain.", "content": "Brains of C57BL/6J mice, aged 4, 8 and 20--29 months, were examined by the Falck-Hillarp histochemical fluorescence technique. Numerous large, intensely fluorescent green to yellow-green spots (LIFS) were observed in the brains of senescent mice. LIFS were generally round to ovoid in shape and ranged in size from about 10 micrometer to about 30 micrometer. Histochemical and pharmacological procedures and spectral analysis indicated that the formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of the LIFS was due to the presence of catecholamines (CA) rather than aging pigment. Their distribution in the brain suggests an association with nerve axons or terminals rather than cell bodies. The number of LIFS in the hypothalamus increased progressively during aging. It is proposed that LIFS may represent age-related, unusual CA accumulation in enlargements proximal to axonal or terminal portions undergoing spontaneous degeneration.", "contents": "Aging and unusual catecholamine-containing structures in the mouse brain. Brains of C57BL/6J mice, aged 4, 8 and 20--29 months, were examined by the Falck-Hillarp histochemical fluorescence technique. Numerous large, intensely fluorescent green to yellow-green spots (LIFS) were observed in the brains of senescent mice. LIFS were generally round to ovoid in shape and ranged in size from about 10 micrometer to about 30 micrometer. Histochemical and pharmacological procedures and spectral analysis indicated that the formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of the LIFS was due to the presence of catecholamines (CA) rather than aging pigment. Their distribution in the brain suggests an association with nerve axons or terminals rather than cell bodies. The number of LIFS in the hypothalamus increased progressively during aging. It is proposed that LIFS may represent age-related, unusual CA accumulation in enlargements proximal to axonal or terminal portions undergoing spontaneous degeneration.", "PMID": 445161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6974", "title": "Effects of transecting lateral neural connections of the medial preoptic area on maternal behavior in the rat: nest building, pup retrieval and prolactin secretion.", "content": "In lactating female rats bilateral parasagittal cuts transecting the dorsolateral neural connections of the medial preoptic area (MPOA) abolished nest building and retrieving components of maternal behavior, while crouching and nursing were unaffected. While few animals with these cuts were suckled when presented with pups the prolactin secretion response was undiminished when suckling did occur. Whereas previous studies have demonstrated that extensive surgical separation of the medial preoptic area-anterior hypothalamic continuum from the lateral preoptic area-lateral hypothalamus disrupts all aspects of maternal behavior, the present study has determined more specifically the zone of fibers essential for the active components of maternal behavior, i.e., nest building and retrieving. These fibers appear to enter/leave MPO dorsolaterally beneath the crossing of the anterior commissure in the region of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. These neural connections are not the same as those that regulate prolactin secretion in the lactating rat.", "contents": "Effects of transecting lateral neural connections of the medial preoptic area on maternal behavior in the rat: nest building, pup retrieval and prolactin secretion. In lactating female rats bilateral parasagittal cuts transecting the dorsolateral neural connections of the medial preoptic area (MPOA) abolished nest building and retrieving components of maternal behavior, while crouching and nursing were unaffected. While few animals with these cuts were suckled when presented with pups the prolactin secretion response was undiminished when suckling did occur. Whereas previous studies have demonstrated that extensive surgical separation of the medial preoptic area-anterior hypothalamic continuum from the lateral preoptic area-lateral hypothalamus disrupts all aspects of maternal behavior, the present study has determined more specifically the zone of fibers essential for the active components of maternal behavior, i.e., nest building and retrieving. These fibers appear to enter/leave MPO dorsolaterally beneath the crossing of the anterior commissure in the region of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. These neural connections are not the same as those that regulate prolactin secretion in the lactating rat.", "PMID": 445162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6975", "title": "Operant conditioning of vertical eye movements without visual feedback in the midpontine pretrigeminal cat.", "content": "An operant conditioning of vertical eye movements was achieved in the midpontine pretrigeminal cat in total darkness by contingent reinforcement of spontaneous eye movements with lateral hypothalamic (LHT) reward stimulation, when each movement (upward direction was chosen in this experiment) exceeded a preset amplitude. However, the response rates in the dark were lower than those in the light and the time to reach the peak response rate was much longer. Recording of evoked potentials to optic chiasma (OC) stimulation revealed enhancement of late components of the visual cortex (VC) and superior colliculus (SC) responses in relation to eye movements. Sequential records of the averaged evoked responses associated with eye movements indicated that the amplitudes of the late components of the VC and SC waves gradually increased in the course of establishment of the operant conditioning, and decreased gradually during extinction. In a yoked control test, increase in amplitudes of the late components was much less significant during non-contingent reinforcement given independently of the eye movements. These results suggest that 'corollary discharge' may play a critical role as a cue in acquisition of the operant conditioning of vertical eye movements when visual feedback is absent in total darkness.", "contents": "Operant conditioning of vertical eye movements without visual feedback in the midpontine pretrigeminal cat. An operant conditioning of vertical eye movements was achieved in the midpontine pretrigeminal cat in total darkness by contingent reinforcement of spontaneous eye movements with lateral hypothalamic (LHT) reward stimulation, when each movement (upward direction was chosen in this experiment) exceeded a preset amplitude. However, the response rates in the dark were lower than those in the light and the time to reach the peak response rate was much longer. Recording of evoked potentials to optic chiasma (OC) stimulation revealed enhancement of late components of the visual cortex (VC) and superior colliculus (SC) responses in relation to eye movements. Sequential records of the averaged evoked responses associated with eye movements indicated that the amplitudes of the late components of the VC and SC waves gradually increased in the course of establishment of the operant conditioning, and decreased gradually during extinction. In a yoked control test, increase in amplitudes of the late components was much less significant during non-contingent reinforcement given independently of the eye movements. These results suggest that 'corollary discharge' may play a critical role as a cue in acquisition of the operant conditioning of vertical eye movements when visual feedback is absent in total darkness.", "PMID": 445164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6976", "title": "The relationship of Schwann cell migration in vitro to injury, using normal, Wobbler, and dystrophic mice.", "content": "A quantitative in vitro study of the cellular outgrowth from mouse sciatic nerve explants has been carried out using both normal untreated nerves and nerves taken at various times after the in vivo application of trauma. The results obtained have been compared with the results for outgrowth from sciatic nerve of two neurological mutants: 'the Wobbler mouse' and the 'ReJ 129 Dystrophic mouse'. It has been shown that the in vitro response to peripheral injury does reflect the activity known to occur in vivo. Outgrowth from explants of mutant mouse nerves, although differing from normal has been found to be less profuse than that occurring after mechanical nerve injury.", "contents": "The relationship of Schwann cell migration in vitro to injury, using normal, Wobbler, and dystrophic mice. A quantitative in vitro study of the cellular outgrowth from mouse sciatic nerve explants has been carried out using both normal untreated nerves and nerves taken at various times after the in vivo application of trauma. The results obtained have been compared with the results for outgrowth from sciatic nerve of two neurological mutants: 'the Wobbler mouse' and the 'ReJ 129 Dystrophic mouse'. It has been shown that the in vitro response to peripheral injury does reflect the activity known to occur in vivo. Outgrowth from explants of mutant mouse nerves, although differing from normal has been found to be less profuse than that occurring after mechanical nerve injury.", "PMID": 445165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6977", "title": "Computer separation of unitary spikes from whole-nerve recordings.", "content": "A practical and efficient off-line computer technique is described for automatically separating unitary waveforms from multiunit whole-nerve spike train data with no a priori knowledge about the number of units or their waveforms. The procedure requires two recording eletrodes which provide 3 measures on each putative unit: (1) peak-to-peak amplitude on the proximal channel, (2) amplitude on the distal channel, and (3) temporal offset (depends on conduction velocity) between proximal and distal spikes. On the basis of these 3 measurements, individual unitary spikes are automatically separated into clusters according to empirically-determined limits of variability. The results of the program are displayed in 3-D plots of the 3 measures on each unitary spike and in plots of superimposed waveforms from each cluster. These plots can be used to interactively correct clustering errors. The procedure is illustrated with a 1-min segment of spike train data recorded in vivo from the siphon nerve of a freely-behaving Aplysia. We routinely obtain about 10 relatively well-isolated units in such segments. By utilizing the average waveforms and conduction velocities for individual clusters, it may eventually be possible to separate unitary spikes from compound waveforms resulting from simultaneous of two or more units.", "contents": "Computer separation of unitary spikes from whole-nerve recordings. A practical and efficient off-line computer technique is described for automatically separating unitary waveforms from multiunit whole-nerve spike train data with no a priori knowledge about the number of units or their waveforms. The procedure requires two recording eletrodes which provide 3 measures on each putative unit: (1) peak-to-peak amplitude on the proximal channel, (2) amplitude on the distal channel, and (3) temporal offset (depends on conduction velocity) between proximal and distal spikes. On the basis of these 3 measurements, individual unitary spikes are automatically separated into clusters according to empirically-determined limits of variability. The results of the program are displayed in 3-D plots of the 3 measures on each unitary spike and in plots of superimposed waveforms from each cluster. These plots can be used to interactively correct clustering errors. The procedure is illustrated with a 1-min segment of spike train data recorded in vivo from the siphon nerve of a freely-behaving Aplysia. We routinely obtain about 10 relatively well-isolated units in such segments. By utilizing the average waveforms and conduction velocities for individual clusters, it may eventually be possible to separate unitary spikes from compound waveforms resulting from simultaneous of two or more units.", "PMID": 445166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6978", "title": "Participation of brain catecholaminergic neurons in a self-sustained circadian oscillation of plasma corticosterone in the rat.", "content": "Circadian rhythms of locomotor activity and plasma corticosterone were determined simultaneously in individual rats which were injected intraventricularly with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a specific depletor of catecholamines. In light-dark cycles (LD), 6-OHDA-treated rats showed essentially normal circadian rhythms of both functions. In 200 lux continuous light (LL) the locomotor activity in the drug-treated rats ran freely with a period slightly longer than 24 h: free-running parameters (mesor, amplitude and period) of the locomotor activity were the same as those control rats. The circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone in control rats also ran freely in LL, resulting in a reversal of their phase after 12 days exposure to LL. However, the rhythm disappeared in 6-OHDA-treated rats under LL: instead in these rats 3--4 episodes of secretion were obsered over a 24 h period. These results suggest a difference in the biochemical background between the regulatory mechanism of circadian rhythm of locomotor actitivity and that of plasma corticosterone. It is also apparent that brain catecholaminergic components are indispensable for the circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone to freerun normally in LL, but are dispensable in LD. A plausible model consisting of two oscillators is proposed to explain these findings.", "contents": "Participation of brain catecholaminergic neurons in a self-sustained circadian oscillation of plasma corticosterone in the rat. Circadian rhythms of locomotor activity and plasma corticosterone were determined simultaneously in individual rats which were injected intraventricularly with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a specific depletor of catecholamines. In light-dark cycles (LD), 6-OHDA-treated rats showed essentially normal circadian rhythms of both functions. In 200 lux continuous light (LL) the locomotor activity in the drug-treated rats ran freely with a period slightly longer than 24 h: free-running parameters (mesor, amplitude and period) of the locomotor activity were the same as those control rats. The circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone in control rats also ran freely in LL, resulting in a reversal of their phase after 12 days exposure to LL. However, the rhythm disappeared in 6-OHDA-treated rats under LL: instead in these rats 3--4 episodes of secretion were obsered over a 24 h period. These results suggest a difference in the biochemical background between the regulatory mechanism of circadian rhythm of locomotor actitivity and that of plasma corticosterone. It is also apparent that brain catecholaminergic components are indispensable for the circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone to freerun normally in LL, but are dispensable in LD. A plausible model consisting of two oscillators is proposed to explain these findings.", "PMID": 445167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6979", "title": "Conformation of exocyclic amino groups in purines and pyrimidines: crystal structure and conformation of 1-methyl-N4-hydroxycytosine hydrochloride.", "content": "The hydrochloride salt of 1-methyl-N4-hydroxycytosine crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 with cell dimensions: a = 8.232(1), b = 9.293(1), c = 5.416(1) A (1 A = 0.1 nm); alpha = 91.95(1), beta = 91.72(2), gamma = 71.56(1) degrees (SE in parentheses). The structure was solved by direct methods and refined to R = 3.7% for 1514 reflections. Despite the absence of an intramolecular hydrogen bond in the solid state, the N4-hydroxy substituent is syn to the ring N(3). This conformation, which probably prevails also in the neutral form, is of relevance to the mechanism of attack of cytosine by hydroxylamine, known to involve predominantly the cytosine cation, as well as to the mechanism of hydroxylamine mutagenesis. Such conformational aspects are also relevant to other phenomena, including translation and restriction.", "contents": "Conformation of exocyclic amino groups in purines and pyrimidines: crystal structure and conformation of 1-methyl-N4-hydroxycytosine hydrochloride. The hydrochloride salt of 1-methyl-N4-hydroxycytosine crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 with cell dimensions: a = 8.232(1), b = 9.293(1), c = 5.416(1) A (1 A = 0.1 nm); alpha = 91.95(1), beta = 91.72(2), gamma = 71.56(1) degrees (SE in parentheses). The structure was solved by direct methods and refined to R = 3.7% for 1514 reflections. Despite the absence of an intramolecular hydrogen bond in the solid state, the N4-hydroxy substituent is syn to the ring N(3). This conformation, which probably prevails also in the neutral form, is of relevance to the mechanism of attack of cytosine by hydroxylamine, known to involve predominantly the cytosine cation, as well as to the mechanism of hydroxylamine mutagenesis. Such conformational aspects are also relevant to other phenomena, including translation and restriction.", "PMID": 445220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6980", "title": "Products of mitochondrial protein synthesis in Tetrahymena.", "content": "The products of mitochondrial protein synthesis have been investigated in Tetrahymena after labelling with [35S]methionine in the presence of cycloheximide. The labelled proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate slab polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. We have identified 13 electrophoretically discrete bands as well as 4 other bands with a more variable occurrence. These proteins ranged in apparent molecular weight from 8100 to 57,500. The cycloheximide-resistant incorporation could be blocked with chloramphenicol. The mitochondrial proteins appeared to be in a disaggregated state and were stable to agents such as trichloroacetic acid (hot or cold) and chloroform-methanol. The pattern of proteins was similar following labelling times ranging from 30 min to 3 h.", "contents": "Products of mitochondrial protein synthesis in Tetrahymena. The products of mitochondrial protein synthesis have been investigated in Tetrahymena after labelling with [35S]methionine in the presence of cycloheximide. The labelled proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate slab polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. We have identified 13 electrophoretically discrete bands as well as 4 other bands with a more variable occurrence. These proteins ranged in apparent molecular weight from 8100 to 57,500. The cycloheximide-resistant incorporation could be blocked with chloramphenicol. The mitochondrial proteins appeared to be in a disaggregated state and were stable to agents such as trichloroacetic acid (hot or cold) and chloroform-methanol. The pattern of proteins was similar following labelling times ranging from 30 min to 3 h.", "PMID": 445221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6981", "title": "Isolation and translation in vitro of poly(A)+RNA from the free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae.", "content": "Polysomal RNA was isolated from the free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae. Passage of this RNA through a cellulose column resulted in the fractionation of the input RNA into poly(A)-RNA (ca. 97.5% of the total) and poly(A)+ RNA (ca. 2.5% of the total). RNase digestion, followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, revealed that the poly(A)+ RNA contained poly(A) tracts that ranged from 75 to 104 nucleotides in length with a mean value of about 90 residues. There was no evidence of poly(A) sequences in the poly(A)- RNA fraction. Poly(A)+ RNA gave a 25- to 50-fold stimulation (over background) of amino acid incorporation in the wheat germ cell-free protein-synthesizing system. At least 26 proteins were evident after electrophoresis in cylindrical sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels. Poly(A)-RNA was capable of stimulating protein synthesis in vitro with about five discrete proteins being produced. In summary, the properties of mRNA from a simple organism such as P. silusiae are very similar to those of more complex eukaryotes.", "contents": "Isolation and translation in vitro of poly(A)+RNA from the free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae. Polysomal RNA was isolated from the free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae. Passage of this RNA through a cellulose column resulted in the fractionation of the input RNA into poly(A)-RNA (ca. 97.5% of the total) and poly(A)+ RNA (ca. 2.5% of the total). RNase digestion, followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, revealed that the poly(A)+ RNA contained poly(A) tracts that ranged from 75 to 104 nucleotides in length with a mean value of about 90 residues. There was no evidence of poly(A) sequences in the poly(A)- RNA fraction. Poly(A)+ RNA gave a 25- to 50-fold stimulation (over background) of amino acid incorporation in the wheat germ cell-free protein-synthesizing system. At least 26 proteins were evident after electrophoresis in cylindrical sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels. Poly(A)-RNA was capable of stimulating protein synthesis in vitro with about five discrete proteins being produced. In summary, the properties of mRNA from a simple organism such as P. silusiae are very similar to those of more complex eukaryotes.", "PMID": 445222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6982", "title": "Characteristics of glutamine metabolism by rat kidney tubules: a carbon and nitrogen balance.", "content": "The metabolism of glutamine by a suspension of rat kidney tubules was studied in vitro. The influence of duration of incubation, glutamine concentration, and metabolic state of the donor animals was investigated. The relative importance of glucose synthesis, amino acid production, and oxidation to CO2 was estimated by drawing a complete balance of the nitrogens and the carbon chains of the extracted glutamine. It was found that the initial (first 15 min) rate of glutamine utilization was significantly greater than the subsequent rate due to an initial, but transient, extracellular accumulation of glutamate. This phenomenon was suppressed when a small amount of glutamate was added to the incubation medium. Glucose production constitutes the major fate for glutamine metabolism. No net oxidation of glutamine could be detected with 1 mM glutamine during the first 30 min. However, glutamine oxidation becomes significant after prolonged incubation (16% at 120 min). The metabolic fate of glutamine differs when 5 or 10 mM are presented to the tubules, glutamate production and oxidation to CO2 becoming more important. Metabolic acidosis or a 48-h fast increases glutamine extraction and enhances its utilization glucose synthesis while they depress glutamate accumulation and oxidation to CO2. Metabolic alkalosis has the opposite effect. It is concluded that the metabolism of glutamine in vitro is dependent on the conditions of the study. Furthermore, total oxidation to CO2 is not a major fate for glutamine metabolism at physiological concentration and is not enhanced by acidosis in the rat kidney in vitro.", "contents": "Characteristics of glutamine metabolism by rat kidney tubules: a carbon and nitrogen balance. The metabolism of glutamine by a suspension of rat kidney tubules was studied in vitro. The influence of duration of incubation, glutamine concentration, and metabolic state of the donor animals was investigated. The relative importance of glucose synthesis, amino acid production, and oxidation to CO2 was estimated by drawing a complete balance of the nitrogens and the carbon chains of the extracted glutamine. It was found that the initial (first 15 min) rate of glutamine utilization was significantly greater than the subsequent rate due to an initial, but transient, extracellular accumulation of glutamate. This phenomenon was suppressed when a small amount of glutamate was added to the incubation medium. Glucose production constitutes the major fate for glutamine metabolism. No net oxidation of glutamine could be detected with 1 mM glutamine during the first 30 min. However, glutamine oxidation becomes significant after prolonged incubation (16% at 120 min). The metabolic fate of glutamine differs when 5 or 10 mM are presented to the tubules, glutamate production and oxidation to CO2 becoming more important. Metabolic acidosis or a 48-h fast increases glutamine extraction and enhances its utilization glucose synthesis while they depress glutamate accumulation and oxidation to CO2. Metabolic alkalosis has the opposite effect. It is concluded that the metabolism of glutamine in vitro is dependent on the conditions of the study. Furthermore, total oxidation to CO2 is not a major fate for glutamine metabolism at physiological concentration and is not enhanced by acidosis in the rat kidney in vitro.", "PMID": 445223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6983", "title": "Inhibition of carboxypeptidase A catalyzed peptide hydrolysis by 3-phenylpropanoate at activating and nonactivating substrate concentrations.", "content": "The carboxypeptidase A catalyzed hydrolyses of five structurally related dipeptide substrates in the presence of the inhibitor 3-phenylpropanoate have been studied. At nonactivating substrate concentrations, 3-phenylpropanoate is a mixed inhibitor of carbobenzoxyglycyl-L-phenylalanine hydrolysis and a noncompetitive inhibitor of the hydrolyses of benzoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, cinnamoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, hydrocinnamoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, and acetylglycyl-L-phenylalanine. When carbobenzoxyglycyl-L-phenylalanine and benzoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine exhibit substrate activation, inhibition by 3-phenylpropanoate is mixed but appears to be mostly competitive. Proposed here is a site for the binding of 3-phenylpropanoate along with a kinetic mechanism consistent with these data.", "contents": "Inhibition of carboxypeptidase A catalyzed peptide hydrolysis by 3-phenylpropanoate at activating and nonactivating substrate concentrations. The carboxypeptidase A catalyzed hydrolyses of five structurally related dipeptide substrates in the presence of the inhibitor 3-phenylpropanoate have been studied. At nonactivating substrate concentrations, 3-phenylpropanoate is a mixed inhibitor of carbobenzoxyglycyl-L-phenylalanine hydrolysis and a noncompetitive inhibitor of the hydrolyses of benzoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, cinnamoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, hydrocinnamoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine, and acetylglycyl-L-phenylalanine. When carbobenzoxyglycyl-L-phenylalanine and benzoylglycyl-L-phenylalanine exhibit substrate activation, inhibition by 3-phenylpropanoate is mixed but appears to be mostly competitive. Proposed here is a site for the binding of 3-phenylpropanoate along with a kinetic mechanism consistent with these data.", "PMID": 445224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6984", "title": "Organic mercurial diuresis: inhibition of glutamine utilization in the acidotic rat.", "content": "Organic mercurials inhibit mitochondrial glutamine metabolism in vitro while metabolic acidosis, a condition in which the predominant renal fuel is glutamine, potentiates mercurial diuresis. The following studies were undertaken to determine whether potentiation of diuresis reflects mercurial inhibition of glutamine utilization. (1) All three mercurials employed (mersalyl, chlormerodrin, and p-chloromercuribenzoate) are diuretics in the rat and this effect was potentiated by NH4Cl. (2) Despite reabsorbing less sodium, mercurial-treated rats had lower kidney ATP content (4.35 +/- 0.26 and 3.84 +/- 0.43 mumol/g dry weight (mercurial plus NH4Cl) than did controls (4.95 +/- 0.31 and 4.87 +/- 0.39 mumol/g dry weight (NH4Cl). (3) Isolated kidneys from NH4Cl and NH4Cl plus mercurial treated rats were perfused with 1 mM L-[U-14C]glutamine to determine rates of extraction and oxidation. Mercurial-treated acidotic rat kidneys had a reduced rate of glutamine uptake (40.8 +/- 7.4 vs. 64.8 +/- 5.8 mumol/h per kidney), a diminished rate of glutamine conversion to CO2 (14.8 +/- 3.6 vs. 26.4 +/- 5.2 mumol/h per kidney), and a reduction in glucose production (16 +/- 5 vs. 27 +/- 4 mumol/h per kidney). These results are consistent with an effect of organic mercurials upon glutamine utilization, limiting ATP availability, and thereby reducing tubular active sodium reabsorption.", "contents": "Organic mercurial diuresis: inhibition of glutamine utilization in the acidotic rat. Organic mercurials inhibit mitochondrial glutamine metabolism in vitro while metabolic acidosis, a condition in which the predominant renal fuel is glutamine, potentiates mercurial diuresis. The following studies were undertaken to determine whether potentiation of diuresis reflects mercurial inhibition of glutamine utilization. (1) All three mercurials employed (mersalyl, chlormerodrin, and p-chloromercuribenzoate) are diuretics in the rat and this effect was potentiated by NH4Cl. (2) Despite reabsorbing less sodium, mercurial-treated rats had lower kidney ATP content (4.35 +/- 0.26 and 3.84 +/- 0.43 mumol/g dry weight (mercurial plus NH4Cl) than did controls (4.95 +/- 0.31 and 4.87 +/- 0.39 mumol/g dry weight (NH4Cl). (3) Isolated kidneys from NH4Cl and NH4Cl plus mercurial treated rats were perfused with 1 mM L-[U-14C]glutamine to determine rates of extraction and oxidation. Mercurial-treated acidotic rat kidneys had a reduced rate of glutamine uptake (40.8 +/- 7.4 vs. 64.8 +/- 5.8 mumol/h per kidney), a diminished rate of glutamine conversion to CO2 (14.8 +/- 3.6 vs. 26.4 +/- 5.2 mumol/h per kidney), and a reduction in glucose production (16 +/- 5 vs. 27 +/- 4 mumol/h per kidney). These results are consistent with an effect of organic mercurials upon glutamine utilization, limiting ATP availability, and thereby reducing tubular active sodium reabsorption.", "PMID": 445225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6985", "title": "Control of stiffness by the medium latency electromyographic response to limb perturbation.", "content": "It is hypothesized that the medium latency electromyographic (EMG) response (ML) to limb perturbation functions to preset limb stiffness to a constant initial level. Three predictions are derived from this hypothesis: Firstly, in the presence of an instruction calling for opposition to limb perturbation, a control signal, ML, will be observed and will lead to the establishment of a constant level of limb stiffness. Secondly, in the absence of an instruction to oppose, no control signal will be observed and correspondingly a constant stiffness will not be generated. Thirdly, the latency of onset of stiffness control will covary with the latency of onset of ML. These predictions were tested in experiments involving perturbation of the human forearm about the elbow joint, with surface EMG measurements and computation of the limb stiffness function. The results are in accord with these predictions, and support the hypothesis that ML functions in the feedforward control of limb stiffness.", "contents": "Control of stiffness by the medium latency electromyographic response to limb perturbation. It is hypothesized that the medium latency electromyographic (EMG) response (ML) to limb perturbation functions to preset limb stiffness to a constant initial level. Three predictions are derived from this hypothesis: Firstly, in the presence of an instruction calling for opposition to limb perturbation, a control signal, ML, will be observed and will lead to the establishment of a constant level of limb stiffness. Secondly, in the absence of an instruction to oppose, no control signal will be observed and correspondingly a constant stiffness will not be generated. Thirdly, the latency of onset of stiffness control will covary with the latency of onset of ML. These predictions were tested in experiments involving perturbation of the human forearm about the elbow joint, with surface EMG measurements and computation of the limb stiffness function. The results are in accord with these predictions, and support the hypothesis that ML functions in the feedforward control of limb stiffness.", "PMID": 445228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6986", "title": "The effects of gonadectomy on the hepatic activities of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, epoxide hydratase, and glutathione S-transferase in Wistar rats pretreated with oral methadone . HCl.", "content": "Methadone . HCl given in the drinking water for 4 weeks increased microsomal epoxide hydratase activity in the liver of adult male Wistar rats, with no change in aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity. In contrast, in female rats it raised aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase with no change in epoxide hydratase activity. Gonadectomy altered the effect of methadone on epoxide hydratase, but not on aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity, in both sexes. In ovariectomized rats, but not in controls, methadone nearly doubled the epoxide hydratase activity, whereas in male rats castration decreased the inductive effect of methadone. Gonadectomy had a significant effect on the results of methadone treatment with respect to glutathione S-transferase activity in female rats. A sex difference was noted in the control levels of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and glutathione S-transferase, but not of epoxide hydratase activity. The glutathione S-transferase and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activities were decreased in castrated male rats, whereas epoxide hydratase activity was unaltered. It is concluded that sex hormones play an important role in the induction of epoxide hydratase and glutathione S-transferase by methadone, but not of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, at this particular dosage regime.", "contents": "The effects of gonadectomy on the hepatic activities of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, epoxide hydratase, and glutathione S-transferase in Wistar rats pretreated with oral methadone . HCl. Methadone . HCl given in the drinking water for 4 weeks increased microsomal epoxide hydratase activity in the liver of adult male Wistar rats, with no change in aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity. In contrast, in female rats it raised aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase with no change in epoxide hydratase activity. Gonadectomy altered the effect of methadone on epoxide hydratase, but not on aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity, in both sexes. In ovariectomized rats, but not in controls, methadone nearly doubled the epoxide hydratase activity, whereas in male rats castration decreased the inductive effect of methadone. Gonadectomy had a significant effect on the results of methadone treatment with respect to glutathione S-transferase activity in female rats. A sex difference was noted in the control levels of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and glutathione S-transferase, but not of epoxide hydratase activity. The glutathione S-transferase and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activities were decreased in castrated male rats, whereas epoxide hydratase activity was unaltered. It is concluded that sex hormones play an important role in the induction of epoxide hydratase and glutathione S-transferase by methadone, but not of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, at this particular dosage regime.", "PMID": 445229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6987", "title": "The effects of periarterial nerve activation on coronary vessel tone in an isolated and perfused slab of beef ventricle.", "content": "The direct effects of extrinsic nerve stimulation on coronary artery tone are unclear because of the complications arising from alterations in myocardial dynamics which themselves alter flow. An isolated and perfused nonbeating slab of beef ventricle was utilized in the present experiments to eliminate secondary complications and the efects of periarterial nerve activation on coronary perfusion pressure were examined. It was found that stimulation induced vasoconstrictor responses which were enhanced by physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, and blocked by atropine. These responses were duplicated by exogenous acetylcholine both in the perfused preparation and in isolated strips of coronary artery. Although added noradrenaline gave vasodilatation, no response attributable to the release of noradrenaline from nerves was obtained. It is concluded that the coronary vasculature of the beef receives a cholinergic innervation and that its activation, especially under conditions of reduced transmitter degradation, may induce considerable coronary vessel constriction.", "contents": "The effects of periarterial nerve activation on coronary vessel tone in an isolated and perfused slab of beef ventricle. The direct effects of extrinsic nerve stimulation on coronary artery tone are unclear because of the complications arising from alterations in myocardial dynamics which themselves alter flow. An isolated and perfused nonbeating slab of beef ventricle was utilized in the present experiments to eliminate secondary complications and the efects of periarterial nerve activation on coronary perfusion pressure were examined. It was found that stimulation induced vasoconstrictor responses which were enhanced by physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, and blocked by atropine. These responses were duplicated by exogenous acetylcholine both in the perfused preparation and in isolated strips of coronary artery. Although added noradrenaline gave vasodilatation, no response attributable to the release of noradrenaline from nerves was obtained. It is concluded that the coronary vasculature of the beef receives a cholinergic innervation and that its activation, especially under conditions of reduced transmitter degradation, may induce considerable coronary vessel constriction.", "PMID": 445230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6988", "title": "Cytochrome P-450 and hepatic drug biotransformation during progressive cardiac disease in cardiomyopathic hamsters.", "content": "Reductions in cytochrome P-450 levels and aminopyrine N-demethylase activity of hepatic microsomes obtained from cardiomyopathic hamsters (BIO 14.6) occurred at all stages of the disease before the development of congestive heart failure (CHF). Cytochrome b5 levels were reduced only in animals with CHF when compared with age-matched controls (BIO.RB). Total microsomal protein and p-nitrophenol glucuronidation were not affected by the disease process. We conclude that the reduction in cytochrome P-450 levels and N-demethylase activity in cardiomyopathic hamsters is not a consequence of CHF, but is one of the manifestations of the disease process.", "contents": "Cytochrome P-450 and hepatic drug biotransformation during progressive cardiac disease in cardiomyopathic hamsters. Reductions in cytochrome P-450 levels and aminopyrine N-demethylase activity of hepatic microsomes obtained from cardiomyopathic hamsters (BIO 14.6) occurred at all stages of the disease before the development of congestive heart failure (CHF). Cytochrome b5 levels were reduced only in animals with CHF when compared with age-matched controls (BIO.RB). Total microsomal protein and p-nitrophenol glucuronidation were not affected by the disease process. We conclude that the reduction in cytochrome P-450 levels and N-demethylase activity in cardiomyopathic hamsters is not a consequence of CHF, but is one of the manifestations of the disease process.", "PMID": 445231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6989", "title": "The ultrastructure of blebs induced in the hamster jejunum by ethanol.", "content": "Previous light microscopic studies showed that perfusion of the hamster jejunum with 4.8% ethanol (ethanol period) in vivo produced fluid-filled subepithelial blisters (blebs) on the villi. These blebs had virtually disappeared within 45 min after the discontinuation of the ethanol perfusion (recovery period). The present study examined these ethanol-induced changes in the jejunum by scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy. TEM revealed that ethanol did not damage epithelial cells in areas where blebs were not present. In these areas the basal surfaces of the epithelial cells were attached to the basal lamina, and the lateral intercellular spaces (LIS) were open. In the areas where blebs formed, the stretched epithelial cells which covered the blebs lost their basal anchoring and so could not maintain their LIS. Both SEM and TEM indicate that there was a decrease in the quantity of glycocalyx at the surfaces of cells which covered blebs. Our findings indicate that ethanol does not directly damage epithelial cells but that the cellular damage is due to detachment over the blebs. It is likely that ethanol at first traverses the epithelial layer and then produces stasis in the villus core. Continued fluid transport by the epithelial layer in the presence of statis results in accumulation of the fluid and widely dilated LIS. With subsequent enlargement of the LIS the bases of the cells detach from the basal lamina and blebs are formed.", "contents": "The ultrastructure of blebs induced in the hamster jejunum by ethanol. Previous light microscopic studies showed that perfusion of the hamster jejunum with 4.8% ethanol (ethanol period) in vivo produced fluid-filled subepithelial blisters (blebs) on the villi. These blebs had virtually disappeared within 45 min after the discontinuation of the ethanol perfusion (recovery period). The present study examined these ethanol-induced changes in the jejunum by scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy. TEM revealed that ethanol did not damage epithelial cells in areas where blebs were not present. In these areas the basal surfaces of the epithelial cells were attached to the basal lamina, and the lateral intercellular spaces (LIS) were open. In the areas where blebs formed, the stretched epithelial cells which covered the blebs lost their basal anchoring and so could not maintain their LIS. Both SEM and TEM indicate that there was a decrease in the quantity of glycocalyx at the surfaces of cells which covered blebs. Our findings indicate that ethanol does not directly damage epithelial cells but that the cellular damage is due to detachment over the blebs. It is likely that ethanol at first traverses the epithelial layer and then produces stasis in the villus core. Continued fluid transport by the epithelial layer in the presence of statis results in accumulation of the fluid and widely dilated LIS. With subsequent enlargement of the LIS the bases of the cells detach from the basal lamina and blebs are formed.", "PMID": 445232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6990", "title": "Altered effect of insulin and catecholamines in brown adipose tissue of cold-acclimated rats.", "content": "Data are presented indicating that in brown adipose tissue (BAT) of cold-acclimated (CA), but not cold-exposed (CE) rats, there was an alteration in the relative response to catecholamines and insulin as evidenced by increased binding of alprenolol and decreased binding of insulin to plasma membrane enriched fractions. In addition, the stimulatory effect of insulin on glucose incorporation into glycogen and its inhibitory action on adenylate cyclase activity were both blunted in the CA tissues. It is proposed that shifts in the capacity of BAT to respond to catecholamines and insulin may be involved in the mechanism of cold acclimation.", "contents": "Altered effect of insulin and catecholamines in brown adipose tissue of cold-acclimated rats. Data are presented indicating that in brown adipose tissue (BAT) of cold-acclimated (CA), but not cold-exposed (CE) rats, there was an alteration in the relative response to catecholamines and insulin as evidenced by increased binding of alprenolol and decreased binding of insulin to plasma membrane enriched fractions. In addition, the stimulatory effect of insulin on glucose incorporation into glycogen and its inhibitory action on adenylate cyclase activity were both blunted in the CA tissues. It is proposed that shifts in the capacity of BAT to respond to catecholamines and insulin may be involved in the mechanism of cold acclimation.", "PMID": 445233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6991", "title": "Dopamine modulation of gill reflex behavior in Aplysia.", "content": "We have studied the effects of dopamine on the gill withdrawal reflex evoked by tactile siphon stimulation in the margine mollusc Aplysia. Physiological concentrations of dopamine (diluted in seawater) were perfused through the gill during siphon stimulation series. The amplitude of the reflex was potentiated by dopamine and habituation of the reflex was prevented. This occurred with no change in the activity evoked in central motor neurons. These results lead us to conclude that the dopaminergic motor neuron L9 is modulating habituation in the periphery and that the central nervous system facilitatory control of the peripheral nervous system may act via a dopaminergic pathway.", "contents": "Dopamine modulation of gill reflex behavior in Aplysia. We have studied the effects of dopamine on the gill withdrawal reflex evoked by tactile siphon stimulation in the margine mollusc Aplysia. Physiological concentrations of dopamine (diluted in seawater) were perfused through the gill during siphon stimulation series. The amplitude of the reflex was potentiated by dopamine and habituation of the reflex was prevented. This occurred with no change in the activity evoked in central motor neurons. These results lead us to conclude that the dopaminergic motor neuron L9 is modulating habituation in the periphery and that the central nervous system facilitatory control of the peripheral nervous system may act via a dopaminergic pathway.", "PMID": 445234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6992", "title": "Renal trauma in children.", "content": "In children the kidney is the organ most frequently injured as a result of blunt abdominal trauma. Controversy exists as to the management of injuries of intermediate severity. At the H\u00f4pital Sainte Justine in Montreal, from 1970 to 1976, 71 children aged 2 to 15 years were admitted because of renal trauma caused by blunt abdominal injury. Class I or II lesions (minor injuries) were found in 69% and class III or IV lesions (major or critical injuries) in 31%. Several severe injuries were treated conservatively. There was one death due to multiple associated injuries. Ten patients underwent surgery; nephrectomy was performed in one and heminephrectomy in two patients. One patient with an avulsion injury to the pedicle survived after \"bench surgery\" and reimplantation of the bruised kidney. Follow-up was obtained in 57 patients; 2 showed posttraumatic scarring. None required subsequent nephrectomy for hypertension or infection.", "contents": "Renal trauma in children. In children the kidney is the organ most frequently injured as a result of blunt abdominal trauma. Controversy exists as to the management of injuries of intermediate severity. At the H\u00f4pital Sainte Justine in Montreal, from 1970 to 1976, 71 children aged 2 to 15 years were admitted because of renal trauma caused by blunt abdominal injury. Class I or II lesions (minor injuries) were found in 69% and class III or IV lesions (major or critical injuries) in 31%. Several severe injuries were treated conservatively. There was one death due to multiple associated injuries. Ten patients underwent surgery; nephrectomy was performed in one and heminephrectomy in two patients. One patient with an avulsion injury to the pedicle survived after \"bench surgery\" and reimplantation of the bruised kidney. Follow-up was obtained in 57 patients; 2 showed posttraumatic scarring. None required subsequent nephrectomy for hypertension or infection.", "PMID": 445235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6993", "title": "Computerized axial tomography and fine-needle biopsy in surgery of the pancreas.", "content": "Notable advances have been made in the investigation of pancreatic disorders. However, many of the diagnostic tests required are still of an invasive nature and are attended by difficulty and risk. The authors have found that the noninvasive method of axial tomography is highly reliable for the evaluation of pancreatic lesions, especially in cases in which a pancreatic mass is present or the duct of Wirsung is dilated. This procedure can also be helpful in the follow-up of patients who have suffered from acute or chronic pancreatitis. The same diagnostic problem is present at operation. To obtain a quick and reliable diagnosis of pancreatic lesions, the authors performed fineneedle aspiration biopsies followed by immediate staining and examination of the specimen. Among 43 patients an accurate diagnosis was obtained in 41 instances and no complication was ascribed to this diagnostic procedure.", "contents": "Computerized axial tomography and fine-needle biopsy in surgery of the pancreas. Notable advances have been made in the investigation of pancreatic disorders. However, many of the diagnostic tests required are still of an invasive nature and are attended by difficulty and risk. The authors have found that the noninvasive method of axial tomography is highly reliable for the evaluation of pancreatic lesions, especially in cases in which a pancreatic mass is present or the duct of Wirsung is dilated. This procedure can also be helpful in the follow-up of patients who have suffered from acute or chronic pancreatitis. The same diagnostic problem is present at operation. To obtain a quick and reliable diagnosis of pancreatic lesions, the authors performed fineneedle aspiration biopsies followed by immediate staining and examination of the specimen. Among 43 patients an accurate diagnosis was obtained in 41 instances and no complication was ascribed to this diagnostic procedure.", "PMID": 445236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6994", "title": "Periampullary tumours: advances in diagnosis and surgical treatment.", "content": "Forty-five carcinomas of the region of the ampulla of Vater were resected at the Toronto General Hospital during a 16-year period. In 26 the presenting symptom was pain and in 32 it was jaundice. The most useful means of investigation was endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Angiography was of value in determining resectability prior to operation, and percutaneous aspiration biopsy allowed a preoperative diagnosis in the case of large pancreatic tumours. In 39 patients who had a Whipple procedure the operative mortality was 8%. Total pancreatectomy performed in two patients and local excision of ampullary carcinoma in four patients were attended by no operative deaths. Long-term survival was best in patients with ampullary carcinomas and worst in those with pancreatic cancer.", "contents": "Periampullary tumours: advances in diagnosis and surgical treatment. Forty-five carcinomas of the region of the ampulla of Vater were resected at the Toronto General Hospital during a 16-year period. In 26 the presenting symptom was pain and in 32 it was jaundice. The most useful means of investigation was endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Angiography was of value in determining resectability prior to operation, and percutaneous aspiration biopsy allowed a preoperative diagnosis in the case of large pancreatic tumours. In 39 patients who had a Whipple procedure the operative mortality was 8%. Total pancreatectomy performed in two patients and local excision of ampullary carcinoma in four patients were attended by no operative deaths. Long-term survival was best in patients with ampullary carcinomas and worst in those with pancreatic cancer.", "PMID": 445237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6995", "title": "Preinfarction diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia by simple measurement of inorganic phosphate in body fluids.", "content": "Acute mesenteric ischemia is extremely difficult to diagnose because peritoneal signs are absent until the bowel becomes necrotic and irretrievably damaged. So far the only reliable diagnostic procedure has been mesenteric angiography. The present study verifies that significant elevations of serum inorganic phosphate concentrations occur in dogs after mesenteric occlusion; the authors' initial clinical studies in humans support these experimental findings. Detailed analysis of body fluid and soft tissue phosphate content shows that the high phosphate load originates in the sloughing intestinal mucosa; if this phosphate escapes filtration by the liver it enters the systemic circulation. Simple measurement of the inorganic phosphate concentrations of the serum and peritoneal fluid may lead to earlier diagnosis of acute intestinal ischemia and a successful revascularization procedure to prevent its progression to infarction.", "contents": "Preinfarction diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia by simple measurement of inorganic phosphate in body fluids. Acute mesenteric ischemia is extremely difficult to diagnose because peritoneal signs are absent until the bowel becomes necrotic and irretrievably damaged. So far the only reliable diagnostic procedure has been mesenteric angiography. The present study verifies that significant elevations of serum inorganic phosphate concentrations occur in dogs after mesenteric occlusion; the authors' initial clinical studies in humans support these experimental findings. Detailed analysis of body fluid and soft tissue phosphate content shows that the high phosphate load originates in the sloughing intestinal mucosa; if this phosphate escapes filtration by the liver it enters the systemic circulation. Simple measurement of the inorganic phosphate concentrations of the serum and peritoneal fluid may lead to earlier diagnosis of acute intestinal ischemia and a successful revascularization procedure to prevent its progression to infarction.", "PMID": 445238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6996", "title": "Digital replantation: a functional assessment.", "content": "With the advent of microvascular anastomosis it has become technically and practically feasible to replant amputated digits. In the last 5 years the achievements in this field of surgery have shown considerable improvement. Success is initially measured in terms of survival of the amputated digits but finally in terms of function. This paper presents a functional assessment of the authors' 33 digital replantations in 20 patients. In all of these patients the period of follow-up has been longer than 2 1/2 years. An 85% survival rate for the replanted digits was obtained. Of the 17 patients who have surviving digits function in 15 was judged to be significantly improved by the procedure. These results have permitted the development of guidelines for selecting patients who will benefit most from the procedure.", "contents": "Digital replantation: a functional assessment. With the advent of microvascular anastomosis it has become technically and practically feasible to replant amputated digits. In the last 5 years the achievements in this field of surgery have shown considerable improvement. Success is initially measured in terms of survival of the amputated digits but finally in terms of function. This paper presents a functional assessment of the authors' 33 digital replantations in 20 patients. In all of these patients the period of follow-up has been longer than 2 1/2 years. An 85% survival rate for the replanted digits was obtained. Of the 17 patients who have surviving digits function in 15 was judged to be significantly improved by the procedure. These results have permitted the development of guidelines for selecting patients who will benefit most from the procedure.", "PMID": 445239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6997", "title": "Multiple primary cancers involving the lung.", "content": "Of 150 consecutive patients with resectable bronchogenic carcinoma, 11 were found to have multiple primary tumours of the respiratory tract. Five patients had more than one primary tumour of the lung and six had previously received treatment for carcinoma of the larynx. In the same group of 150 patients, 14 had one or more cancers involving other organs. The appearance of a new solitary lung lesion in a patient with another cancer demands special attention to determine the exact diagnosis and to decide upon the best method of treatment. Physicians should be aware that such a lung lesion may represent a new primary lung cancer rather than a metastasis. The criteria are defined for the pathological definition of two separate primary tumours in these cases.", "contents": "Multiple primary cancers involving the lung. Of 150 consecutive patients with resectable bronchogenic carcinoma, 11 were found to have multiple primary tumours of the respiratory tract. Five patients had more than one primary tumour of the lung and six had previously received treatment for carcinoma of the larynx. In the same group of 150 patients, 14 had one or more cancers involving other organs. The appearance of a new solitary lung lesion in a patient with another cancer demands special attention to determine the exact diagnosis and to decide upon the best method of treatment. Physicians should be aware that such a lung lesion may represent a new primary lung cancer rather than a metastasis. The criteria are defined for the pathological definition of two separate primary tumours in these cases.", "PMID": 445240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6998", "title": "Iatrogenic femoral nerve injuries.", "content": "Eighteen cases of iatrogenic femoral nerve injury are described. In two patients the damage was incurred as a result of an intra-abdominal operation. In three others the nerve was injured at the level of the inguinal ligament. In the majority femoral nerve palsy followed surgery to the hip joint and was attributable to a lesion-in-continuity. Only one of the patients in the series made a full recovery, but because only severe cases were included these disappointing results by no means represent the expected outcome. To avoid this serious and distressing complication of surgery, the surgeon must be familiar with the anatomic features of the region and must take care to avoid compression of the femoral nerve by retractors and its overstretching during operations on the the hip joint.", "contents": "Iatrogenic femoral nerve injuries. Eighteen cases of iatrogenic femoral nerve injury are described. In two patients the damage was incurred as a result of an intra-abdominal operation. In three others the nerve was injured at the level of the inguinal ligament. In the majority femoral nerve palsy followed surgery to the hip joint and was attributable to a lesion-in-continuity. Only one of the patients in the series made a full recovery, but because only severe cases were included these disappointing results by no means represent the expected outcome. To avoid this serious and distressing complication of surgery, the surgeon must be familiar with the anatomic features of the region and must take care to avoid compression of the femoral nerve by retractors and its overstretching during operations on the the hip joint.", "PMID": 445241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_6999", "title": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome associated with parathyroid adenomas and ectopic gastric tissue in the lower esophageal mucosa.", "content": "A rare case of the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome associated with hyperparathyroidism and ectopic gastric tissue in the lower esophageal mucosa is reported. Preoperatively the patient, a 53-year-old woman, had hyperchlorhydria and her fasting serum gastrin concentration was mildly elevated. There was a considerable increase in the gastric acid output and concentration of serum calcium after secretin infusion. At operation the patient had a gastric ulcer 10 cm in diameter, an islet cell tumour of the pancreas 14 cm in diameter, and ectopic gastric mucosa in the distal third of the esophagus. A gastrectomy was perfomed, the pancreatic tumour excised and part of the distal esophagus removed through a left thoracotomy. Four months after the operation the gastrin concentration had returned to low normal, but the serum calcium values remained high. One month later two parathyroid adenomas were removed which effectively cured the hypercalcemia.", "contents": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome associated with parathyroid adenomas and ectopic gastric tissue in the lower esophageal mucosa. A rare case of the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome associated with hyperparathyroidism and ectopic gastric tissue in the lower esophageal mucosa is reported. Preoperatively the patient, a 53-year-old woman, had hyperchlorhydria and her fasting serum gastrin concentration was mildly elevated. There was a considerable increase in the gastric acid output and concentration of serum calcium after secretin infusion. At operation the patient had a gastric ulcer 10 cm in diameter, an islet cell tumour of the pancreas 14 cm in diameter, and ectopic gastric mucosa in the distal third of the esophagus. A gastrectomy was perfomed, the pancreatic tumour excised and part of the distal esophagus removed through a left thoracotomy. Four months after the operation the gastrin concentration had returned to low normal, but the serum calcium values remained high. One month later two parathyroid adenomas were removed which effectively cured the hypercalcemia.", "PMID": 445242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7000", "title": "Pneumothorax complicating a fracture of the clavicle.", "content": "Fractures of the clavicle, while common, are associated with few serious complications. The authors report the case of a 29-year-old man with a simple fracture of the middle third of the clavicle that was associated with a 30% pneumothorax. The force and mechanism of the injury, severe pleuritic pain and reduced breath sounds suggested the diagnosis which was confirmed roentgenographically. The possibility of pneumothorax must be considered in any patient with a fracture of the clavicle, especially in the unconscious patient who has sustained multiple injuries.", "contents": "Pneumothorax complicating a fracture of the clavicle. Fractures of the clavicle, while common, are associated with few serious complications. The authors report the case of a 29-year-old man with a simple fracture of the middle third of the clavicle that was associated with a 30% pneumothorax. The force and mechanism of the injury, severe pleuritic pain and reduced breath sounds suggested the diagnosis which was confirmed roentgenographically. The possibility of pneumothorax must be considered in any patient with a fracture of the clavicle, especially in the unconscious patient who has sustained multiple injuries.", "PMID": 445243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7001", "title": "Restoration of gastrointestinal continuity (Pauchet's operation).", "content": "Restoration of continuity of the gastrointestinal tract following resection has always presented a challenge to the general abdominal surgeon. Restoration of the left colon has been especially dangerous. In the early days the mortality approached 90% due mainly to breakdown of the anastomosis. Recently, with a better understanding of the blood supply to the colon and more careful preparation of the colon, the mortality and morbidity have been reduced. In a small group of cases, in which previous surgery has interfered with the blood supply to the colon or a secondary pathologic condition exists, continuity cannot be restored by end-to-end anastomosis. In this group the interposition of the ileum between the transverse colon proximally and the rectum distally has resulted in functional continuity of the colon with no adverse metabolic effects.", "contents": "Restoration of gastrointestinal continuity (Pauchet's operation). Restoration of continuity of the gastrointestinal tract following resection has always presented a challenge to the general abdominal surgeon. Restoration of the left colon has been especially dangerous. In the early days the mortality approached 90% due mainly to breakdown of the anastomosis. Recently, with a better understanding of the blood supply to the colon and more careful preparation of the colon, the mortality and morbidity have been reduced. In a small group of cases, in which previous surgery has interfered with the blood supply to the colon or a secondary pathologic condition exists, continuity cannot be restored by end-to-end anastomosis. In this group the interposition of the ileum between the transverse colon proximally and the rectum distally has resulted in functional continuity of the colon with no adverse metabolic effects.", "PMID": 445244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7002", "title": "Recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding due to smooth muscle tumours of the small intestine.", "content": "The cause of recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage can be very difficult to identify. When the source of bleeding is beyond the ligament of Treitz the bleeding is often from a smooth muscle tumour of the small intestine. A review of the records of the Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, for the past 25 years discovered 14 instances of such tumours, in more than half of which the presenting symptom was recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage of obscure origin. Barium contrast roentgenography, endoscopy and radionuclide scanning have not been found helpful in diagnosis. Selective angiography followed by laparotomy is the best mode of management with respect to both investigation and treatment. The data obtained from our series of cases are compared with those of other series reported in the literature.", "contents": "Recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding due to smooth muscle tumours of the small intestine. The cause of recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage can be very difficult to identify. When the source of bleeding is beyond the ligament of Treitz the bleeding is often from a smooth muscle tumour of the small intestine. A review of the records of the Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, for the past 25 years discovered 14 instances of such tumours, in more than half of which the presenting symptom was recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage of obscure origin. Barium contrast roentgenography, endoscopy and radionuclide scanning have not been found helpful in diagnosis. Selective angiography followed by laparotomy is the best mode of management with respect to both investigation and treatment. The data obtained from our series of cases are compared with those of other series reported in the literature.", "PMID": 445245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7003", "title": "Chain-saw facial injuries.", "content": "Accidents caused by kickback from chain saws produce facial injuries with consistent features. These features include oblique, destructive, ragged lacerations of the left side of the face. Although eyelid damage may be severe, damage to the globe itself is minimal. An analysis of 10 such accidents revealed this consistent pattern. Of this group, eight injuries were left-sided and six involved mainly the eyelid and adjacent structures. Only one patient was left with permanent damage to the globe and with slightly impaired (20/60) vision. The upper lid was always more severely damaged than the lower. The author discusses the merits and disadvantages of protective devices for both operator and machine.", "contents": "Chain-saw facial injuries. Accidents caused by kickback from chain saws produce facial injuries with consistent features. These features include oblique, destructive, ragged lacerations of the left side of the face. Although eyelid damage may be severe, damage to the globe itself is minimal. An analysis of 10 such accidents revealed this consistent pattern. Of this group, eight injuries were left-sided and six involved mainly the eyelid and adjacent structures. Only one patient was left with permanent damage to the globe and with slightly impaired (20/60) vision. The upper lid was always more severely damaged than the lower. The author discusses the merits and disadvantages of protective devices for both operator and machine.", "PMID": 445248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7004", "title": "Experience with polytetrafluoroethylene grafts in patients on long-term hemodialysis.", "content": "Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a new material now being used to create subcutaneous arteriovenous anastomoses for vascular access in hemodialysis. The authors have been impressed with the versatility of grafts made from this material and, where failure occurs, the ease with which surgical revision can be carried out. Two cases are described to illustrate the adaptability of this material to reconstruction. The authors' initial impression based on 22 months' experience is that PTFE grafts have appreciably modified the management with respect to vascular access, of many patients on long-term hemodialysis.", "contents": "Experience with polytetrafluoroethylene grafts in patients on long-term hemodialysis. Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a new material now being used to create subcutaneous arteriovenous anastomoses for vascular access in hemodialysis. The authors have been impressed with the versatility of grafts made from this material and, where failure occurs, the ease with which surgical revision can be carried out. Two cases are described to illustrate the adaptability of this material to reconstruction. The authors' initial impression based on 22 months' experience is that PTFE grafts have appreciably modified the management with respect to vascular access, of many patients on long-term hemodialysis.", "PMID": 445249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7005", "title": "Anterior intranasal carcinoma.", "content": "In a series of nine consecutive cases of anterior intranasal carcinoma seen between 1965 and 1975, a single treatment failed to control the disease in four. This failure rate is much higher than that reported for squamous cell carcinomas of the skin in general and appears to indicate that tumours at this site require aggressive therapy.", "contents": "Anterior intranasal carcinoma. In a series of nine consecutive cases of anterior intranasal carcinoma seen between 1965 and 1975, a single treatment failed to control the disease in four. This failure rate is much higher than that reported for squamous cell carcinomas of the skin in general and appears to indicate that tumours at this site require aggressive therapy.", "PMID": 445250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7006", "title": "Transpleural end-to-end repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula.", "content": "Successful surgery for esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula is a relatively recent development, and progress has been rapid over the past 10 years. Because the surgical technique is still controversial, the authors reviewed their experience in treating 38 infants with the condition. Transpleural end-to-end repair was carried out in all cases. In 21 cases a two-layer repair was done and in 17 a one-layer repair. After 10 days, if no anastomotic leak was detected radiologically, esophagoscopy and dilatation at the anastomotic site were performed; dilatation was carried out routinely once or twice thereafter when necessary. The most common complication was stricture of the anastomosis (eight cases), which required more than the three dilatations routinely performed. Other complications were recurrent fistula (two patients) and anastomotic leak (two patients). Six of the 38 infants died; all had other serious anomalies. The results overall compared favourably with those of other published series. The authors conclude that end-to-end repair using a transpleural approach is a safe and effective method for surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. The approach provides excellant exposure so that anastomotic tension can be evaluated, thus allowing improved mobilization of the esophagus. Both factors contribute to a low frequency of anastomotic complications.", "contents": "Transpleural end-to-end repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. Successful surgery for esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula is a relatively recent development, and progress has been rapid over the past 10 years. Because the surgical technique is still controversial, the authors reviewed their experience in treating 38 infants with the condition. Transpleural end-to-end repair was carried out in all cases. In 21 cases a two-layer repair was done and in 17 a one-layer repair. After 10 days, if no anastomotic leak was detected radiologically, esophagoscopy and dilatation at the anastomotic site were performed; dilatation was carried out routinely once or twice thereafter when necessary. The most common complication was stricture of the anastomosis (eight cases), which required more than the three dilatations routinely performed. Other complications were recurrent fistula (two patients) and anastomotic leak (two patients). Six of the 38 infants died; all had other serious anomalies. The results overall compared favourably with those of other published series. The authors conclude that end-to-end repair using a transpleural approach is a safe and effective method for surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. The approach provides excellant exposure so that anastomotic tension can be evaluated, thus allowing improved mobilization of the esophagus. Both factors contribute to a low frequency of anastomotic complications.", "PMID": 445251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7007", "title": "Nontraumatic hemobilia: disparate episodes 7 years apart in the same patient.", "content": "A case is reported of nontraumatic hemobilia, which occurred twice in the same patient. Initially it was due to carcinoma of the gallbladder and 7 years later it was due to a ruptured intrahepatic aneurysm. The management of these two conditions is reviewed. The clinical marker of nontraumatic hemobilia originating in the gallbladder is the hemocholecyst and the treatment is cholecystectomy. Ruptured intrahepatic aneurysm can be diagnosed only by angiography. Cholangiography is indicated to rule out pathologic conditions of the ducts. In the absence of hepatobiliary sepsis selective hepatic artery ligation is the preferred treatment, otherwise hepatic resection is required.", "contents": "Nontraumatic hemobilia: disparate episodes 7 years apart in the same patient. A case is reported of nontraumatic hemobilia, which occurred twice in the same patient. Initially it was due to carcinoma of the gallbladder and 7 years later it was due to a ruptured intrahepatic aneurysm. The management of these two conditions is reviewed. The clinical marker of nontraumatic hemobilia originating in the gallbladder is the hemocholecyst and the treatment is cholecystectomy. Ruptured intrahepatic aneurysm can be diagnosed only by angiography. Cholangiography is indicated to rule out pathologic conditions of the ducts. In the absence of hepatobiliary sepsis selective hepatic artery ligation is the preferred treatment, otherwise hepatic resection is required.", "PMID": 445252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7008", "title": "Methylmethacrylate as an adjunct in the internal fixation of pathologic fractures.", "content": "The authors evaluated methylmethacrylate as an adjunct to internal fixation of 47 pathologic fractures of long bones (10 of the humerus and 37 of the femur) in 43 patients with metastatic disease. In their experience this method proved to be vastly superior to other methods of internal fixation. All patients were relieved of pain and, if able to walk, could do so almost immediately after fixation of the fracture. In the others comfort was enhanced and nursing greatly facilitated. The surgical technique of internal fixation is described in detail. Correct selection of the metal implant, meticulous attention to the biomechanical considerations and restoration of bone continuity by means of methylmethacrylate are most important if a gratifying result is to be obtained.", "contents": "Methylmethacrylate as an adjunct in the internal fixation of pathologic fractures. The authors evaluated methylmethacrylate as an adjunct to internal fixation of 47 pathologic fractures of long bones (10 of the humerus and 37 of the femur) in 43 patients with metastatic disease. In their experience this method proved to be vastly superior to other methods of internal fixation. All patients were relieved of pain and, if able to walk, could do so almost immediately after fixation of the fracture. In the others comfort was enhanced and nursing greatly facilitated. The surgical technique of internal fixation is described in detail. Correct selection of the metal implant, meticulous attention to the biomechanical considerations and restoration of bone continuity by means of methylmethacrylate are most important if a gratifying result is to be obtained.", "PMID": 445253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7009", "title": "Opportunities for research in rural practice.", "content": "The contributions of Denis Burkitt, William Budd, Sir James MacKenzie and Will Pickles, among others, are examples of the research that can be accomplished by busy doctors in a general practice or a rural setting with a minimum of equipment. It is still possible to undertake worthwhile research in rural areas of Canada. This contention is supported by many examples of published work from northern Newfoundland and Labrador. The studies have dealt with conditions that are particularly frequent in each region, including those due to nutritional deficiency, infection, extremes of climate and genetic factors. Epidemiologic studies have compared the occurrence of disease in different geographic regions and in different races. The content of general practice and methods of health care delivery have also been investigated. It is suggested that some of these observations could have been made only in the context of rural medical practice.", "contents": "Opportunities for research in rural practice. The contributions of Denis Burkitt, William Budd, Sir James MacKenzie and Will Pickles, among others, are examples of the research that can be accomplished by busy doctors in a general practice or a rural setting with a minimum of equipment. It is still possible to undertake worthwhile research in rural areas of Canada. This contention is supported by many examples of published work from northern Newfoundland and Labrador. The studies have dealt with conditions that are particularly frequent in each region, including those due to nutritional deficiency, infection, extremes of climate and genetic factors. Epidemiologic studies have compared the occurrence of disease in different geographic regions and in different races. The content of general practice and methods of health care delivery have also been investigated. It is suggested that some of these observations could have been made only in the context of rural medical practice.", "PMID": 445268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7010", "title": "Community air pollution in Canada: a review and predictions for the 1980s.", "content": "The main trends in Canadian air pollution since the national program of surveillance began are reviewed in this paper. In common with the United States, significant improvements in sulfur dioxide and particulate pollution have been recorded in a number of cities after the institution of control measures. However, some areas with a concentration of certain industries still have considerable particulate pollution. Since emission of nitrogen dioxide is increasing in the United States, the consequent photochemical pollution in southern Ontario will probably continue to increase. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations in the air are elevated in some western Canadian cities, presumably because of the presence of plants that burn natural gas to generate electricity and increasing pollution from automobiles. There is increasing concern about community air pollution in cities with large metal-fabricating plants, and community exposure to asbestos fibres is likely to be an important concern in the 1980s.", "contents": "Community air pollution in Canada: a review and predictions for the 1980s. The main trends in Canadian air pollution since the national program of surveillance began are reviewed in this paper. In common with the United States, significant improvements in sulfur dioxide and particulate pollution have been recorded in a number of cities after the institution of control measures. However, some areas with a concentration of certain industries still have considerable particulate pollution. Since emission of nitrogen dioxide is increasing in the United States, the consequent photochemical pollution in southern Ontario will probably continue to increase. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations in the air are elevated in some western Canadian cities, presumably because of the presence of plants that burn natural gas to generate electricity and increasing pollution from automobiles. There is increasing concern about community air pollution in cities with large metal-fabricating plants, and community exposure to asbestos fibres is likely to be an important concern in the 1980s.", "PMID": 445269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7011", "title": "Planning for psychiatric emergencies.", "content": "Hospital emergency services have been used increasingly in recent years. This has resulted in questions as to the true nature of patients' complaints and the appropriateness of this type of care. Since the increase in the number of psychiatric emergency patients has paralleled that for patients at other types of emergency clinics a study was conducted at the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Toronto, to examine the situation prior to the inception in 1977 of a crisis intervention unit. It was found that most patients had both psychiatric and social difficulties, and it was considered that planning should concentrate on strategies for efficient management of the clinical problems.", "contents": "Planning for psychiatric emergencies. Hospital emergency services have been used increasingly in recent years. This has resulted in questions as to the true nature of patients' complaints and the appropriateness of this type of care. Since the increase in the number of psychiatric emergency patients has paralleled that for patients at other types of emergency clinics a study was conducted at the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Toronto, to examine the situation prior to the inception in 1977 of a crisis intervention unit. It was found that most patients had both psychiatric and social difficulties, and it was considered that planning should concentrate on strategies for efficient management of the clinical problems.", "PMID": 445284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7012", "title": "Carotidynia: a cause of neck and face pain.", "content": "Carotidynia is a form of vascular neck are face pain in which the vascular change occurs in the carotid artery in the neck. The disorder is not uncommon, and most patients have a prior history of migraine. They present with pain in the neck and face, and are often thought to have a disorder such as chronic sinusitis or trigeminal neuralgia. Diagnosis can be made from the type and location of the pain and the finding of a tender and swollen carotid artery on the same side. Carotidynia responds to the prophylactic medications used for migraine, often disappearing in weeks or months. In some patients the syndrome may become recurrent or chronic, with a variable response to medication.", "contents": "Carotidynia: a cause of neck and face pain. Carotidynia is a form of vascular neck are face pain in which the vascular change occurs in the carotid artery in the neck. The disorder is not uncommon, and most patients have a prior history of migraine. They present with pain in the neck and face, and are often thought to have a disorder such as chronic sinusitis or trigeminal neuralgia. Diagnosis can be made from the type and location of the pain and the finding of a tender and swollen carotid artery on the same side. Carotidynia responds to the prophylactic medications used for migraine, often disappearing in weeks or months. In some patients the syndrome may become recurrent or chronic, with a variable response to medication.", "PMID": 445285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7013", "title": "Management of 41 persons exposed to a rabid dog: unplanned experience with human diploid vaccine.", "content": "Thirty-six persons -- veterinarians, technicians and students at a veterinary clinic -- were unwittingly exposed to a rabid dog over a period of 21/2 days. One veterinarian received a penetrating bite, two other individuals were grabbed by the dog but the skin was not penetrated, and many were exposed to saliva or urine or both. In addition, the owner of the dog and his wife and three children, while not bitten, were exposed to saliva. The diagnosis was made post mortem when specimens of the dog's brain were examined by indirect fluorescent antibody testing. All but one of the students had been vaccinated against rabies with hamster kidney vaccine, but eight members of the veterinary college's staff had not been so vaccinated. Treatment started with duck embryo vaccine; if necessary, rabies (human) immune globulin was also given. When one student reacted severely to the first dose of duck embryo vaccine permission was sought to bring a human diploid vaccine into Canada. In five patients the human diploid vaccine was substituted for the duck embryo vaccine because of severe reactions to the latter. Twenty-five staff members and the family of five received both vaccines. Reactions to the human diploid vaccine were minor and transient. Recommendations include the early licensing of the human diploid vaccine in Canada.", "contents": "Management of 41 persons exposed to a rabid dog: unplanned experience with human diploid vaccine. Thirty-six persons -- veterinarians, technicians and students at a veterinary clinic -- were unwittingly exposed to a rabid dog over a period of 21/2 days. One veterinarian received a penetrating bite, two other individuals were grabbed by the dog but the skin was not penetrated, and many were exposed to saliva or urine or both. In addition, the owner of the dog and his wife and three children, while not bitten, were exposed to saliva. The diagnosis was made post mortem when specimens of the dog's brain were examined by indirect fluorescent antibody testing. All but one of the students had been vaccinated against rabies with hamster kidney vaccine, but eight members of the veterinary college's staff had not been so vaccinated. Treatment started with duck embryo vaccine; if necessary, rabies (human) immune globulin was also given. When one student reacted severely to the first dose of duck embryo vaccine permission was sought to bring a human diploid vaccine into Canada. In five patients the human diploid vaccine was substituted for the duck embryo vaccine because of severe reactions to the latter. Twenty-five staff members and the family of five received both vaccines. Reactions to the human diploid vaccine were minor and transient. Recommendations include the early licensing of the human diploid vaccine in Canada.", "PMID": 445300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7014", "title": "Neonatal respiratory distress: potential for prevention.", "content": "A prospective study was conducted of 100 consecutive admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit of the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, of infants with respiratory distress syndrome or transient tachypnea of the newborn. It was found that in 15% of cases the illness was completely preventable, being the result of unintentionally premature termination of pregnancy. Significant intrapartum asphyxia occurred in 44% of the infants in whom respiratory distress syndrome developed. Factors placing the pregnancy at high risk were present antenatally in most cases, and most of the deliveries took place in hospitals without adequate facilities or staff, or both, for the requirements of the infant at and following birth.", "contents": "Neonatal respiratory distress: potential for prevention. A prospective study was conducted of 100 consecutive admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit of the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, of infants with respiratory distress syndrome or transient tachypnea of the newborn. It was found that in 15% of cases the illness was completely preventable, being the result of unintentionally premature termination of pregnancy. Significant intrapartum asphyxia occurred in 44% of the infants in whom respiratory distress syndrome developed. Factors placing the pregnancy at high risk were present antenatally in most cases, and most of the deliveries took place in hospitals without adequate facilities or staff, or both, for the requirements of the infant at and following birth.", "PMID": 445301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7015", "title": "Noise-induced hearing loss and blood pressure.", "content": "From a group of industrial workers who had a noise-induced hearing loss of at least 30 dB at 4000 Hz 62 were randomly selected after stratification. Controls matched for age and duration of employment were also selected. Resting blood pressures were measured and audiometry was repeated. The findings are presented by age group and for the two groups as a whole. No relation between systolic or diastolic blood pressure and hearing loss was found, and equal proportions of each group had blood pressures exceeding 140/90 mm Hg. Persons with greater hearing loss (more than 60 dB at 4000 Hz) did not have significantly higher blood pressures than their matched controls.", "contents": "Noise-induced hearing loss and blood pressure. From a group of industrial workers who had a noise-induced hearing loss of at least 30 dB at 4000 Hz 62 were randomly selected after stratification. Controls matched for age and duration of employment were also selected. Resting blood pressures were measured and audiometry was repeated. The findings are presented by age group and for the two groups as a whole. No relation between systolic or diastolic blood pressure and hearing loss was found, and equal proportions of each group had blood pressures exceeding 140/90 mm Hg. Persons with greater hearing loss (more than 60 dB at 4000 Hz) did not have significantly higher blood pressures than their matched controls.", "PMID": 445302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7016", "title": "Lymphocyte transformation studies in drug hypersensitivity.", "content": "In a group of patients with clinically diagnosed drug hypersensitivity the in vitro lymphocyte response to the suspected drug was assessed by the lymphocyte transformation test. The test gave positive results in all 15 patients with penicillin-induced immediate or accelerated allergic reactions and positive immediate skin-test reactivity to the major or the minor antigenic determinant of penicillin, or both, but in only 3 of the 12 patients with delayed-onset maculopapular rashes induced by penicillin, despite positive immediate reactivity to the skin-test reagents.Lymphocyte stimulation greater than five times the control level was demonstrated for five patients with penicillin-induced erythroderma, Stevens-Johnson syndrome or a serum-sickness-like illness, or with methicillin-induced interstitial nephritis, all of whom had negative reactions to the appropriate skin-test reagents. A low level of stimulation was seen in eight other skin-test-negative patients with possible allergic reactions induced by penicillins. However, in all subjects tested the stimulation was significantly greater than the mean for control subjects.For 9 of 11 patients with isoniazid-induced hepatitis or maculopapular rashes, but for only 8 of 31 patients with eruptions induced by a variety of drugs other than penicillins and isoniazid, significant stimulation occurred in the lymphocyte transformation test.It is concluded that the lymphocyte transformation test is useful in the detection of hypersensitivity to the penicillins (although in IgE-mediated reactions skin testing is clearly preferable) and isoniazid but is of limited value in the demonstration of hypersensitivity to other drugs.", "contents": "Lymphocyte transformation studies in drug hypersensitivity. In a group of patients with clinically diagnosed drug hypersensitivity the in vitro lymphocyte response to the suspected drug was assessed by the lymphocyte transformation test. The test gave positive results in all 15 patients with penicillin-induced immediate or accelerated allergic reactions and positive immediate skin-test reactivity to the major or the minor antigenic determinant of penicillin, or both, but in only 3 of the 12 patients with delayed-onset maculopapular rashes induced by penicillin, despite positive immediate reactivity to the skin-test reagents.Lymphocyte stimulation greater than five times the control level was demonstrated for five patients with penicillin-induced erythroderma, Stevens-Johnson syndrome or a serum-sickness-like illness, or with methicillin-induced interstitial nephritis, all of whom had negative reactions to the appropriate skin-test reagents. A low level of stimulation was seen in eight other skin-test-negative patients with possible allergic reactions induced by penicillins. However, in all subjects tested the stimulation was significantly greater than the mean for control subjects.For 9 of 11 patients with isoniazid-induced hepatitis or maculopapular rashes, but for only 8 of 31 patients with eruptions induced by a variety of drugs other than penicillins and isoniazid, significant stimulation occurred in the lymphocyte transformation test.It is concluded that the lymphocyte transformation test is useful in the detection of hypersensitivity to the penicillins (although in IgE-mediated reactions skin testing is clearly preferable) and isoniazid but is of limited value in the demonstration of hypersensitivity to other drugs.", "PMID": 445303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7017", "title": "Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer.", "content": "Ovarian cancer is the most common fatal gynecologic malignant disease. Unfortunately 60% to 70% of patients present initially with advanced disease. Progress in the treatment of this condition will be made only if it can be diagnosed early. Pelvic examination is still the best screening test despite attempts to make an early diagnosis with the use of cytology, ultrasonography, and serum determinations for fibrin degradation product; haptoglobin, protein-bound fucose and tumour-associated antigens. The best prospect for a screening test for ovarian cancer probably lies in the field of tumour immunology.", "contents": "Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the most common fatal gynecologic malignant disease. Unfortunately 60% to 70% of patients present initially with advanced disease. Progress in the treatment of this condition will be made only if it can be diagnosed early. Pelvic examination is still the best screening test despite attempts to make an early diagnosis with the use of cytology, ultrasonography, and serum determinations for fibrin degradation product; haptoglobin, protein-bound fucose and tumour-associated antigens. The best prospect for a screening test for ovarian cancer probably lies in the field of tumour immunology.", "PMID": 445304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7018", "title": "5-Fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM) chemotherapy for adenocarcinoma of the lung.", "content": "Twenty-five patients with advanced measurable adenocarcinoma of the lung were treated with combination chemotherapy consisting of 5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM). Objective response (1CR, 8PR) was obtained in 36% of patients. The median duration of response was 7.0 months and the median survival for responders is greater than 8.5 months. Five responders are alive 5.5 to 23.5 months after starting therapy. Three of four patients evidencing stabilization of disease are alive at 10-23 months. Non-responding patients had a median survival of 2.5 months and none lived beyond seven months. Tumor response and survival suggested correlation with initial performance status and limited disease. The FAM regimen was tolerated well, with moderate bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal symptoms being the only clinically significant toxicities. These results indicate that patients with advanced pulmonary adenocarcinoma can obtain objective tumor regression with FAM chemotherapy.", "contents": "5-Fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM) chemotherapy for adenocarcinoma of the lung. Twenty-five patients with advanced measurable adenocarcinoma of the lung were treated with combination chemotherapy consisting of 5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM). Objective response (1CR, 8PR) was obtained in 36% of patients. The median duration of response was 7.0 months and the median survival for responders is greater than 8.5 months. Five responders are alive 5.5 to 23.5 months after starting therapy. Three of four patients evidencing stabilization of disease are alive at 10-23 months. Non-responding patients had a median survival of 2.5 months and none lived beyond seven months. Tumor response and survival suggested correlation with initial performance status and limited disease. The FAM regimen was tolerated well, with moderate bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal symptoms being the only clinically significant toxicities. These results indicate that patients with advanced pulmonary adenocarcinoma can obtain objective tumor regression with FAM chemotherapy.", "PMID": 445320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7019", "title": "Complete remission of widely metastatic endometrial stromal sarcoma following combination chemotherapy.", "content": "A 21-year-old female underwent a hysterectomy with the finding of an endometrial stromal sarcoma (7-9 mitoses/10 HPF) confined to the uterus. However, within 30 months of hysterectomy, metastases occurred in the spinal cord, femur and lungs. Treatment consisted of surgery and irradiation for the spinal cord metastases and ten courses of combination chemotherapy, Adriamycin, vincristine, cyclophosphamide (6 courses) and megestrol acetate (continuous since course 7). This therapy resulted in a complete clinical remission which has been maintained for eight months since completion of chemotherapy. It is suggested that this regimen be employed in patients with this rare and lethal tumor.", "contents": "Complete remission of widely metastatic endometrial stromal sarcoma following combination chemotherapy. A 21-year-old female underwent a hysterectomy with the finding of an endometrial stromal sarcoma (7-9 mitoses/10 HPF) confined to the uterus. However, within 30 months of hysterectomy, metastases occurred in the spinal cord, femur and lungs. Treatment consisted of surgery and irradiation for the spinal cord metastases and ten courses of combination chemotherapy, Adriamycin, vincristine, cyclophosphamide (6 courses) and megestrol acetate (continuous since course 7). This therapy resulted in a complete clinical remission which has been maintained for eight months since completion of chemotherapy. It is suggested that this regimen be employed in patients with this rare and lethal tumor.", "PMID": 445321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7020", "title": "Actinomycin-D, levamisole chemoimmunotherapy of refractory malignant melanoma.", "content": "Sixty adult patients with disseminated melanoma refractory to DTIC or Dacarbazine were given chemoimmunotherapy with intermittent high single dose Actinomycin-D and Levamisole. Actinomycin-D was given at a dose of 1.5-2.0 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 to 4 weeks. Levamisole was given in a dose of 150 mg/day for two consecutive days each week (50 patients) and in a dose of 200 mg every other day (10 patients). Antitumor responses consisted of 2% complete remissions (CR), 2% partial remissions (PR), and 33% disease improvement less than PR or stabilization (S). Comparison of these patients who received Actinomycin-D + Levamisole with those on an immediately preceding study in a similar population where Actinomycin-D was given as a single agent revealed no difference in response rates. Patients who responded to Actinomycin-D + Levamisole (CR + PR + S) survived significantly longer (35 weeks) than nonresponders (12 weeks, p less than 0.01). Survival was not longer (p less than .05) in responding patients (CR + PR + S) receiving Actinomycin-D + Levamisole (35 weeks) compared to those responding to Actinomycin-D alone (18 weeks, p = 0.09). Hematologic toxicity was tolerable with median lowest granulocyte counts of 1.6 x 10(3)/microliter and platelet counts of 134,000/microliter. Other toxic effects were predominantly nausea, vomiting, and mucositis. In those patients who received alternate day Levamisole there was greater gastrointestinal upset as well as fever, rash and central nervous system toxicity which was unacceptable.", "contents": "Actinomycin-D, levamisole chemoimmunotherapy of refractory malignant melanoma. Sixty adult patients with disseminated melanoma refractory to DTIC or Dacarbazine were given chemoimmunotherapy with intermittent high single dose Actinomycin-D and Levamisole. Actinomycin-D was given at a dose of 1.5-2.0 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 to 4 weeks. Levamisole was given in a dose of 150 mg/day for two consecutive days each week (50 patients) and in a dose of 200 mg every other day (10 patients). Antitumor responses consisted of 2% complete remissions (CR), 2% partial remissions (PR), and 33% disease improvement less than PR or stabilization (S). Comparison of these patients who received Actinomycin-D + Levamisole with those on an immediately preceding study in a similar population where Actinomycin-D was given as a single agent revealed no difference in response rates. Patients who responded to Actinomycin-D + Levamisole (CR + PR + S) survived significantly longer (35 weeks) than nonresponders (12 weeks, p less than 0.01). Survival was not longer (p less than .05) in responding patients (CR + PR + S) receiving Actinomycin-D + Levamisole (35 weeks) compared to those responding to Actinomycin-D alone (18 weeks, p = 0.09). Hematologic toxicity was tolerable with median lowest granulocyte counts of 1.6 x 10(3)/microliter and platelet counts of 134,000/microliter. Other toxic effects were predominantly nausea, vomiting, and mucositis. In those patients who received alternate day Levamisole there was greater gastrointestinal upset as well as fever, rash and central nervous system toxicity which was unacceptable.", "PMID": 445322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7021", "title": "Solid tumor models for the assessment of different treatment modalities: VIII. The scheduling of treatment for a chemotherapeutically resistant experimental solid tumor.", "content": "Single, large doses of adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) have been compared to the same amount of drug given in divided doses daily over a 3 or 5 day period in a solid tumor model which metastasizes to the regional lymph nodes and lungs. No significant increase in life expectancy occurred following adriamycin or cyclophosphamide. However, a significant reduction in life expectancy occurred after 5 fractionated doses of 5-FU but not after the large single dose. The increase in mortality following fractionated doses of 5-FU is attributed to the prolongation of the onset of recovery of bone marrow. Tumor volume reduction following a single dose of each agent was equal to or greater than the fractionated doses. The results of these studies on this chemotherapeutically resistant solid tumor indicate that small daily fractionated doses of adriamycin, cyclophosphamide or 5-FU result in increased morbidity and mortality without therapeutic benefit in tumor control. The time sequence of recovery of the limiting organ of the host (i.e., bone marrow) is similar to the time sequence of recovery of the tumor. Large intermittent single doses of chemotherapeutic agents given following recovery of the host from a previous treatment would be expected to be less toxic to the host and equally effective in control of tumor growth. None of the 3 chemotherapeutic agents was successful in tumor eradication. Previous studies of this series have shown that the utilization of sequential chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy can be successfully used for eradication of another solid tumor which did not metastasize. A similar therapeutic strategy using sequential combined modality therapy should also be effective in the control of the primary H-4-II-E tumor as well as its metastatic dissemination. Information gained from these experimental studies should eventually provide information which should be helpful in the clinical management of chemotherapeutically resistant solid tumors in man.", "contents": "Solid tumor models for the assessment of different treatment modalities: VIII. The scheduling of treatment for a chemotherapeutically resistant experimental solid tumor. Single, large doses of adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) have been compared to the same amount of drug given in divided doses daily over a 3 or 5 day period in a solid tumor model which metastasizes to the regional lymph nodes and lungs. No significant increase in life expectancy occurred following adriamycin or cyclophosphamide. However, a significant reduction in life expectancy occurred after 5 fractionated doses of 5-FU but not after the large single dose. The increase in mortality following fractionated doses of 5-FU is attributed to the prolongation of the onset of recovery of bone marrow. Tumor volume reduction following a single dose of each agent was equal to or greater than the fractionated doses. The results of these studies on this chemotherapeutically resistant solid tumor indicate that small daily fractionated doses of adriamycin, cyclophosphamide or 5-FU result in increased morbidity and mortality without therapeutic benefit in tumor control. The time sequence of recovery of the limiting organ of the host (i.e., bone marrow) is similar to the time sequence of recovery of the tumor. Large intermittent single doses of chemotherapeutic agents given following recovery of the host from a previous treatment would be expected to be less toxic to the host and equally effective in control of tumor growth. None of the 3 chemotherapeutic agents was successful in tumor eradication. Previous studies of this series have shown that the utilization of sequential chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy can be successfully used for eradication of another solid tumor which did not metastasize. A similar therapeutic strategy using sequential combined modality therapy should also be effective in the control of the primary H-4-II-E tumor as well as its metastatic dissemination. Information gained from these experimental studies should eventually provide information which should be helpful in the clinical management of chemotherapeutically resistant solid tumors in man.", "PMID": 445323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7022", "title": "Malignant myelosclerosis (acute myelofibrosis): report of two cases following cytotoxic chemotherapy.", "content": "Malignant myelosclerosis or acute myelofibrosis is a rare acute myeloproliferative disorder characterized by pancytopenia, myeloblastosis and marrow fibrosis. We describe two patients who developed malignant myelosclerosis after receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, one for Hodgkin's disease, and the other for membranous nephritis. In view of the known leukemogenic effect of cytotoxic drugs, we presume that chemotherapy played a role in the pathogenesis of malignant myelosclerosis in these two patients.", "contents": "Malignant myelosclerosis (acute myelofibrosis): report of two cases following cytotoxic chemotherapy. Malignant myelosclerosis or acute myelofibrosis is a rare acute myeloproliferative disorder characterized by pancytopenia, myeloblastosis and marrow fibrosis. We describe two patients who developed malignant myelosclerosis after receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, one for Hodgkin's disease, and the other for membranous nephritis. In view of the known leukemogenic effect of cytotoxic drugs, we presume that chemotherapy played a role in the pathogenesis of malignant myelosclerosis in these two patients.", "PMID": 445324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7023", "title": "Combination chemoimmunotherapy of metastatic breast cancer with 5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, and BCG.", "content": "One hundred and five patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with 5-fluorouracil, Adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and BCG (FAC-BCG). The results were compared to those observed in a group of 44 patients treated with FAC chemotherapy alone. Although the overall response rates were similar (76% for FAC-BCG and 73% for FAC), the duration of remission was of 9 months for FAC and 14 months for FAC-BCG (p = 0.04). Similarly, survival or responding patients treated with FAC-BCG was significantly longer (24 months) than that observed in the chemotherapy alone treated group (15 months). There was no difference in survival or duration on study for non-responders. Response rates were not influenced by dominant site of disease, menopausal status or disease-free interval. The duration of remission and survival, however, were significantly longer for patients with bone and soft tissue involvement than for patients with visceral metastasis. Similarly patients with 1 or 2 metastatic sites survived significantly longer than those with more than 3 organ sites involved (p = 0.02). This chemotherapeutic combination is highly effective in inducing remissions. In addition, nonspecific immunotherapy with BCG appears to prolong duration of remission and survival for responding patients.", "contents": "Combination chemoimmunotherapy of metastatic breast cancer with 5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, and BCG. One hundred and five patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with 5-fluorouracil, Adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and BCG (FAC-BCG). The results were compared to those observed in a group of 44 patients treated with FAC chemotherapy alone. Although the overall response rates were similar (76% for FAC-BCG and 73% for FAC), the duration of remission was of 9 months for FAC and 14 months for FAC-BCG (p = 0.04). Similarly, survival or responding patients treated with FAC-BCG was significantly longer (24 months) than that observed in the chemotherapy alone treated group (15 months). There was no difference in survival or duration on study for non-responders. Response rates were not influenced by dominant site of disease, menopausal status or disease-free interval. The duration of remission and survival, however, were significantly longer for patients with bone and soft tissue involvement than for patients with visceral metastasis. Similarly patients with 1 or 2 metastatic sites survived significantly longer than those with more than 3 organ sites involved (p = 0.02). This chemotherapeutic combination is highly effective in inducing remissions. In addition, nonspecific immunotherapy with BCG appears to prolong duration of remission and survival for responding patients.", "PMID": 445325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7024", "title": "Long term follow-up of combination chemotherapy-radiotherapy of stage III Hodgkin's disease: a Cancer and Acute Leukemia Group B study.", "content": "The Cancer and Acute Leukemia Group B studied the effect of combination chemotherapy-radiotherapy on Stage III Hodgkin's disease. Chemotherapy consisting of 4 weekly doses of vinblastine and one dose of mechlorethamine hydrochloride was followed by no therapy (CT), radiation to involved fields (CTIF) or total nodal radiation (CTTN). Two other treatment arms included total nodal radiation alone (TN) or total nodal radiation followed by chemotherapy (TNCT). Maximum follow-up is ten years. Complete remission percentages were 36 (8/22) for CT, 71 (17/24) for CTIF, 100 (21/21) for CTTN, 86 (19/22) for TNCT and 89 (16/18) for TN. Disease-free survival in patients receiving radiation +/- chemotherapy is 23% (19/73) at 5 years, but even after 9 years relapses were observed in two patients. Forty-one percent of all patients are alive and 32% have survived for five years. Ability to administer adequate therapy was the main determined for response duration and survival. Factors influencing the outcome of the disease include histology, age, splenectomy, initial white blood cell count and performance status, whereas symptomatology, initial absolute lymphocyte count and sex played no role on survival.", "contents": "Long term follow-up of combination chemotherapy-radiotherapy of stage III Hodgkin's disease: a Cancer and Acute Leukemia Group B study. The Cancer and Acute Leukemia Group B studied the effect of combination chemotherapy-radiotherapy on Stage III Hodgkin's disease. Chemotherapy consisting of 4 weekly doses of vinblastine and one dose of mechlorethamine hydrochloride was followed by no therapy (CT), radiation to involved fields (CTIF) or total nodal radiation (CTTN). Two other treatment arms included total nodal radiation alone (TN) or total nodal radiation followed by chemotherapy (TNCT). Maximum follow-up is ten years. Complete remission percentages were 36 (8/22) for CT, 71 (17/24) for CTIF, 100 (21/21) for CTTN, 86 (19/22) for TNCT and 89 (16/18) for TN. Disease-free survival in patients receiving radiation +/- chemotherapy is 23% (19/73) at 5 years, but even after 9 years relapses were observed in two patients. Forty-one percent of all patients are alive and 32% have survived for five years. Ability to administer adequate therapy was the main determined for response duration and survival. Factors influencing the outcome of the disease include histology, age, splenectomy, initial white blood cell count and performance status, whereas symptomatology, initial absolute lymphocyte count and sex played no role on survival.", "PMID": 445326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7025", "title": "Results of radiotherapy in control of stage I and II non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.", "content": "We retrospectively analyzed 114 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, clinical stages I and II, classified by the criteria of Rappaport and treated by radiotherapy alone. Of 84 patients classifiable, one-third were nodular and two-thirds diffuse lymphomas. Berkson-Gage actuarial and relapse-free survivals were determined for these two groups and for subgroups stratified by histology, stage, and by presence or absence of extranodal disease. Five year relapse-free and overall survivals were 83% and 100%, respectively, for the nodular group and 37% and 59% for the diffuse group. Extranodal involvement was less frequent in the nodular (19%) than in the diffuse (52%) group, where it was associated with Stage IE disease and increased relapse-free and actuarial survival. Histopathological subtype in the diffuse group (histiocytic versus combined lymphocytic poorly differentiated and mixed lymphocytic-histiocytic) did not influence survival. Extranodal involvement and stage I disease were associated with better survival in the diffuse histiocytic group. Successful radiotherapy for all stages of disease, all histologies, was not correlated with extended versus involved fields, and 89% of the relapses in the entire series were by wide dissemination.", "contents": "Results of radiotherapy in control of stage I and II non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. We retrospectively analyzed 114 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, clinical stages I and II, classified by the criteria of Rappaport and treated by radiotherapy alone. Of 84 patients classifiable, one-third were nodular and two-thirds diffuse lymphomas. Berkson-Gage actuarial and relapse-free survivals were determined for these two groups and for subgroups stratified by histology, stage, and by presence or absence of extranodal disease. Five year relapse-free and overall survivals were 83% and 100%, respectively, for the nodular group and 37% and 59% for the diffuse group. Extranodal involvement was less frequent in the nodular (19%) than in the diffuse (52%) group, where it was associated with Stage IE disease and increased relapse-free and actuarial survival. Histopathological subtype in the diffuse group (histiocytic versus combined lymphocytic poorly differentiated and mixed lymphocytic-histiocytic) did not influence survival. Extranodal involvement and stage I disease were associated with better survival in the diffuse histiocytic group. Successful radiotherapy for all stages of disease, all histologies, was not correlated with extended versus involved fields, and 89% of the relapses in the entire series were by wide dissemination.", "PMID": 445327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7026", "title": "An evaluation of total nodal irradiation as treatment for stage III A Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "Between April 1969 and December 1974, 37 patients with surgically staged III A Hodgkin's disease were treated with total nodal irradiation (TNI). Their probability of relapse-free survival at 7 years is 51% and overall survival 82% with the majority of patients remaining disease free after retreatment with MOPP (10 of 16). In contrast, 21 stage III B patients treated with TNI and MOPP chemotherapy over the same time period have a relapse-free survival of 74% and overall survival of 91%. Because of superior results in treating stage III B patients with combined modality treatment, we fell that a relapse-free survival of 51% may not justify continuation of TNI as the only modality of treatment for patients with stage III A disease, and we have initiated a trial of combined radiation therapy and MOPP chemotherapy in these patients. The most effective treatment of stage III A Hodgkin's disease, however, remains uncertain and depends both on the ultimate risk of combined modality treatment and the success of retreatment following relapse after radiation.", "contents": "An evaluation of total nodal irradiation as treatment for stage III A Hodgkin's disease. Between April 1969 and December 1974, 37 patients with surgically staged III A Hodgkin's disease were treated with total nodal irradiation (TNI). Their probability of relapse-free survival at 7 years is 51% and overall survival 82% with the majority of patients remaining disease free after retreatment with MOPP (10 of 16). In contrast, 21 stage III B patients treated with TNI and MOPP chemotherapy over the same time period have a relapse-free survival of 74% and overall survival of 91%. Because of superior results in treating stage III B patients with combined modality treatment, we fell that a relapse-free survival of 51% may not justify continuation of TNI as the only modality of treatment for patients with stage III A disease, and we have initiated a trial of combined radiation therapy and MOPP chemotherapy in these patients. The most effective treatment of stage III A Hodgkin's disease, however, remains uncertain and depends both on the ultimate risk of combined modality treatment and the success of retreatment following relapse after radiation.", "PMID": 445328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7027", "title": "Radiation management of carcinoma of the cervical stump.", "content": "In spite of a low incidence of carcinoma of the cervical stump at the present time, the management of this interesting disease deserves special attention because of the success which can be obtained with proper treatment. We have reviewed our cervical stump cases treated at the University of Maryland Hospital, Department of Radiation Therapy, from 1962 to 1973. Of 107 cases treated, only 100 cases were \"true cases\" of carcinoma of the stump and were eligible for this study. 7 cases were excluded from the study because they were probably coincidental carcinomas and were treated soon after subtotal hysterectomy. The lesions were staged according to the FIGO system. 93 cases (93%) were invasive squamous cell carcinoma, 6 cases (6%) adenocarcinoma and 1 case (1%) transitional cell carcinoma. Of 100 cases with a minimum 5 year follow-up, the absolute 5-year cure rate for various clinical stages is as follows: Stage I 83.3% (20/24); Stage IIA 75.0% (9/12); Stage IIB 62.5% (20/32); Stage IIIA 50% (1/2); Stage IIIB 48% (12/25); Stage IV 20% (1/5). The overall absolute 5-year cure rate for all stages combined is 63% (63/100) compatible with a series reported by M.D. Anderson. A better result in Stage IIIB as compared to several previous reports is thought to be due to extensive and aggressive interstitial radium therapy properly combined with external supervoltage irradiation. Techniques of treatment stage by stage including computerized dosimetry will be discussed along with complications and failures.", "contents": "Radiation management of carcinoma of the cervical stump. In spite of a low incidence of carcinoma of the cervical stump at the present time, the management of this interesting disease deserves special attention because of the success which can be obtained with proper treatment. We have reviewed our cervical stump cases treated at the University of Maryland Hospital, Department of Radiation Therapy, from 1962 to 1973. Of 107 cases treated, only 100 cases were \"true cases\" of carcinoma of the stump and were eligible for this study. 7 cases were excluded from the study because they were probably coincidental carcinomas and were treated soon after subtotal hysterectomy. The lesions were staged according to the FIGO system. 93 cases (93%) were invasive squamous cell carcinoma, 6 cases (6%) adenocarcinoma and 1 case (1%) transitional cell carcinoma. Of 100 cases with a minimum 5 year follow-up, the absolute 5-year cure rate for various clinical stages is as follows: Stage I 83.3% (20/24); Stage IIA 75.0% (9/12); Stage IIB 62.5% (20/32); Stage IIIA 50% (1/2); Stage IIIB 48% (12/25); Stage IV 20% (1/5). The overall absolute 5-year cure rate for all stages combined is 63% (63/100) compatible with a series reported by M.D. Anderson. A better result in Stage IIIB as compared to several previous reports is thought to be due to extensive and aggressive interstitial radium therapy properly combined with external supervoltage irradiation. Techniques of treatment stage by stage including computerized dosimetry will be discussed along with complications and failures.", "PMID": 445329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7028", "title": "Therapy-related leukemia: a panmyelosis.", "content": "Fifteen patients developed acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) 31 to 182 months following chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for various malignancies and one non-neoplastic disorder. The ANLL was commonly heralded by a brief preleukemic phase consisting of cytopenias and a variety of morphologic abnormalities. At diagnosis of ANLL, all of the patients had a panmyelosis with variation in the predominant abnormal cell line. Neutrophilic and erythroid abnormalities were most striking in 12 of the patients, megakaryocytic abnormalities predominated in 2 and monocytic abnormalities in 1. Pancytopenia, marked anisopoikilocytosis, normoblastemia, large hypogranular platelets, hypogranular neutrophils, pseudo-Pelger-Huet nuclei, low myeloblast counts and basophilia were the most common abnormalities in the blood. Bone marrows were hypercellular with increased myeloblasts and basophils, abnormal neutrophil precursors, occasional monocytoid blasts, dyserythropoiesis with PAS positive erythroblasts, ring sideroblasts and micromegakaryocytes. All of the 7 patients who had bone marrow chromosome studies exhibited major chromosomal abnormalities. Response to anti-leukemic therapy was poor. The morphologic and clinical findings of these 15 patients appear to define a clinical-pathologic entity.", "contents": "Therapy-related leukemia: a panmyelosis. Fifteen patients developed acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) 31 to 182 months following chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for various malignancies and one non-neoplastic disorder. The ANLL was commonly heralded by a brief preleukemic phase consisting of cytopenias and a variety of morphologic abnormalities. At diagnosis of ANLL, all of the patients had a panmyelosis with variation in the predominant abnormal cell line. Neutrophilic and erythroid abnormalities were most striking in 12 of the patients, megakaryocytic abnormalities predominated in 2 and monocytic abnormalities in 1. Pancytopenia, marked anisopoikilocytosis, normoblastemia, large hypogranular platelets, hypogranular neutrophils, pseudo-Pelger-Huet nuclei, low myeloblast counts and basophilia were the most common abnormalities in the blood. Bone marrows were hypercellular with increased myeloblasts and basophils, abnormal neutrophil precursors, occasional monocytoid blasts, dyserythropoiesis with PAS positive erythroblasts, ring sideroblasts and micromegakaryocytes. All of the 7 patients who had bone marrow chromosome studies exhibited major chromosomal abnormalities. Response to anti-leukemic therapy was poor. The morphologic and clinical findings of these 15 patients appear to define a clinical-pathologic entity.", "PMID": 445330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7029", "title": "Adjuvant immunotherapy of malignant melanoma.", "content": "A vaccine made of irradiated Vibrio cholerae neuroaminidase (VCN) treated autochthonous tumor cells plus BCG was utilized in combination with surgery or with chemotherapy for Stage II and Stage III malignant melanoma, respectively. A few patients with Stage I melanoma were treated with surgery and BCG. Most of the studies were carried out on a prospective, randomized protocol. When the results with conventional therapy were compared with the results of conventional therapy plus immunotherapy, no beneficial effects of the immunotherapy were seen. Stratification insured comparability in both immunotherapy and nonimmunotherapy groups. We conclude that VCN treated tumor cells plus BCG, when administered according to the protocol utilized here, offer patients with malignant melanoma no substantial benefit when compared with conventional therapy.", "contents": "Adjuvant immunotherapy of malignant melanoma. A vaccine made of irradiated Vibrio cholerae neuroaminidase (VCN) treated autochthonous tumor cells plus BCG was utilized in combination with surgery or with chemotherapy for Stage II and Stage III malignant melanoma, respectively. A few patients with Stage I melanoma were treated with surgery and BCG. Most of the studies were carried out on a prospective, randomized protocol. When the results with conventional therapy were compared with the results of conventional therapy plus immunotherapy, no beneficial effects of the immunotherapy were seen. Stratification insured comparability in both immunotherapy and nonimmunotherapy groups. We conclude that VCN treated tumor cells plus BCG, when administered according to the protocol utilized here, offer patients with malignant melanoma no substantial benefit when compared with conventional therapy.", "PMID": 445331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7030", "title": "Circulating immune complexes in colon cancer patient sera.", "content": "Sera from 29 colon cancer patients and 16 elderly normal controls were compared using the Raji radioimmunoassay and the Clq binding assay. By the Raji assay 11 of 29 cancer patients had evidence of circulating complexes, while by the Clq assay only 4 of the 29 patients had complexes. There was no significant difference between the levels of circulating complexes in the patient or control groups. With respect to individual patients the results obtained by the Raji assay did not correlate with those obtained by the Clq binding assay.", "contents": "Circulating immune complexes in colon cancer patient sera. Sera from 29 colon cancer patients and 16 elderly normal controls were compared using the Raji radioimmunoassay and the Clq binding assay. By the Raji assay 11 of 29 cancer patients had evidence of circulating complexes, while by the Clq assay only 4 of the 29 patients had complexes. There was no significant difference between the levels of circulating complexes in the patient or control groups. With respect to individual patients the results obtained by the Raji assay did not correlate with those obtained by the Clq binding assay.", "PMID": 445332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7031", "title": "Metabolic changes following the intravenous infusion of Corynebacterium parvum in man.", "content": "The acute changes in concentrations of key blood metabolites and liver function tests were measured following intravenous infusion of Corynebacterium parvum in 9 healthy patients who had recently undergone resection of a colorectal cancer. The following results were obtained: 1) Blood glucose, lactate and ketone body concentrations significantly increased over a 5 hour study period; 2) blood alanine fell during the same period; 3) plasma bilirubin, GOT and urea were significantly elevated 24 hours after C. parvum 4) plasma albumin and cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower 24 hours after C. parvum. These changes are similar to the alterations in hepatic metabolism previously described in clinical bacterial infections, and indicate parenchymal cell damage and reduced synthetic activity. They are potentially important in relation to the treatment of cancer with combined modalities where drug metabolism or excretion may be affected.", "contents": "Metabolic changes following the intravenous infusion of Corynebacterium parvum in man. The acute changes in concentrations of key blood metabolites and liver function tests were measured following intravenous infusion of Corynebacterium parvum in 9 healthy patients who had recently undergone resection of a colorectal cancer. The following results were obtained: 1) Blood glucose, lactate and ketone body concentrations significantly increased over a 5 hour study period; 2) blood alanine fell during the same period; 3) plasma bilirubin, GOT and urea were significantly elevated 24 hours after C. parvum 4) plasma albumin and cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower 24 hours after C. parvum. These changes are similar to the alterations in hepatic metabolism previously described in clinical bacterial infections, and indicate parenchymal cell damage and reduced synthetic activity. They are potentially important in relation to the treatment of cancer with combined modalities where drug metabolism or excretion may be affected.", "PMID": 445333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7032", "title": "Hairy cell leukemia: an autopsy study.", "content": "Autopsy material from 5 patients with hairy cell leukemia was examined. In addition to the expected widespread involvement of the hematopoietic system and of the liver, all of the patients had various amounts of pulmonary infiltration by leukemic cells. This infiltration was so severe in one instance that the resulting pulmonary insufficiency was the cause of death. Other areas of hairy cell infiltration included the peripancreatic connective tissue in all cases, kidneys in 3 cases, pericardium in 2 cases, and skin in 1 case. Association of plasma cells with the infiltrating neoplastic cells was prominent. In one patient, foci of large, bizarre cells were found in several lymph nodes and in the pericardium. Whether these cells represent transformation of the hairy cells into a larger, less differentiated cell type, or the emergence of a second hematopoietic neoplasm, is unknown.", "contents": "Hairy cell leukemia: an autopsy study. Autopsy material from 5 patients with hairy cell leukemia was examined. In addition to the expected widespread involvement of the hematopoietic system and of the liver, all of the patients had various amounts of pulmonary infiltration by leukemic cells. This infiltration was so severe in one instance that the resulting pulmonary insufficiency was the cause of death. Other areas of hairy cell infiltration included the peripancreatic connective tissue in all cases, kidneys in 3 cases, pericardium in 2 cases, and skin in 1 case. Association of plasma cells with the infiltrating neoplastic cells was prominent. In one patient, foci of large, bizarre cells were found in several lymph nodes and in the pericardium. Whether these cells represent transformation of the hairy cells into a larger, less differentiated cell type, or the emergence of a second hematopoietic neoplasm, is unknown.", "PMID": 445334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7033", "title": "Chromosomes and causation of human cancer and leukemia: XXXI. Dq- deletions and their significance in proliferative disorders.", "content": "Three cases with myeloproliferative disorders associated with Dq- deletions (13q- and 15q-) in their marrow cells are described. In addition, a summary of the experience with 14 cases of Dq- at Leuven, Belgium and the cases in the literature is presented. The findings indicate frequent involvement and susceptibility to deletion of the long arms of chromosomes No. 13 and No. 15 in lympho- and myeloproliferative disorders, thus adding these chromosomes to the list of those involved nonrandomly in human neoplasia.", "contents": "Chromosomes and causation of human cancer and leukemia: XXXI. Dq- deletions and their significance in proliferative disorders. Three cases with myeloproliferative disorders associated with Dq- deletions (13q- and 15q-) in their marrow cells are described. In addition, a summary of the experience with 14 cases of Dq- at Leuven, Belgium and the cases in the literature is presented. The findings indicate frequent involvement and susceptibility to deletion of the long arms of chromosomes No. 13 and No. 15 in lympho- and myeloproliferative disorders, thus adding these chromosomes to the list of those involved nonrandomly in human neoplasia.", "PMID": 445335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7034", "title": "Nickel sub-sulphide-induced leiomyosarcoma in rabbit white skeletal muscle: a light microscopical and ultrastructural study.", "content": "Nickel sub-sulphide-induced leiomyosarcomas in rabbit white skeletal muscle were studied by both light and electron microscopy. Two types of tumor cells, small spindle cells and elongated smooth muscle cells, are revealed by light microscopy. Nevertheless, their ultrastructure displays the same general feature. The most differentiated cells have abundant cytoplasmic filaments 7 nm in diameter, kept together in bundles by dense bodies. There also exist many 10 nm filaments and a large number of microtubules. The nuclei have prominent nucleoli with an extensive nucleolonema which form an irregular tridimensional network. Distinct fibrillar nuclear bodies were observed. Sometimes there exist desmosomes or gap junctions. The Golgi apparatus produces coated vesicles with secretory function. In the tumors were generally found the Ni3S2 implantations surrounded by a capsule, the major component of which were collagen fibers, degenerated nuclei and rod-like structures with a transverse periodicity of 15.5 nm. From these observations, several characteristics should be pointed out: 1) Many tumor cells contain large nucleoli and distinct intranuclear inclusions of undetermined nature. 2) The coated vesicles represent a secretory activity of the tumor cells; the coat material is probably used during the formation of cell membranes. Another possible function of coated vesicles could be the sequestering of calcium ions. 3) The rod-like structures in the Ni3S2-including capsule are not of Z-line material. 4) The tumoral stem myoblast in heart and skeletal muscle arise from mesenchymal cells.", "contents": "Nickel sub-sulphide-induced leiomyosarcoma in rabbit white skeletal muscle: a light microscopical and ultrastructural study. Nickel sub-sulphide-induced leiomyosarcomas in rabbit white skeletal muscle were studied by both light and electron microscopy. Two types of tumor cells, small spindle cells and elongated smooth muscle cells, are revealed by light microscopy. Nevertheless, their ultrastructure displays the same general feature. The most differentiated cells have abundant cytoplasmic filaments 7 nm in diameter, kept together in bundles by dense bodies. There also exist many 10 nm filaments and a large number of microtubules. The nuclei have prominent nucleoli with an extensive nucleolonema which form an irregular tridimensional network. Distinct fibrillar nuclear bodies were observed. Sometimes there exist desmosomes or gap junctions. The Golgi apparatus produces coated vesicles with secretory function. In the tumors were generally found the Ni3S2 implantations surrounded by a capsule, the major component of which were collagen fibers, degenerated nuclei and rod-like structures with a transverse periodicity of 15.5 nm. From these observations, several characteristics should be pointed out: 1) Many tumor cells contain large nucleoli and distinct intranuclear inclusions of undetermined nature. 2) The coated vesicles represent a secretory activity of the tumor cells; the coat material is probably used during the formation of cell membranes. Another possible function of coated vesicles could be the sequestering of calcium ions. 3) The rod-like structures in the Ni3S2-including capsule are not of Z-line material. 4) The tumoral stem myoblast in heart and skeletal muscle arise from mesenchymal cells.", "PMID": 445336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7035", "title": "Possible role of mumps virus in the etiology of ovarian cancer.", "content": "Eighty-four ovarian cancer (OCa) patients and 84 controls with nonmalignant conditions matched by age and ethnic origin were interviewed with regard to clinical mumps history and their sera were tested for complement fixation (CF) mumps antibodies. OCa patients differed from the controls in the response to past mumps infection in two respects: 1) They appeared to be more likely to have developed subclinical mumps as evidenced by a lower rate of clinical mumps history in the presence of serological evidence of similar infection rates among those with positive and those with negative clinical mumps history. 2) They tended to present lower persistent mumps CF antibody titers. These results may be interpreted to indicate that an immunological incompetence enables the development of OCa possibly through a direct etiologic role of mumps virus.", "contents": "Possible role of mumps virus in the etiology of ovarian cancer. Eighty-four ovarian cancer (OCa) patients and 84 controls with nonmalignant conditions matched by age and ethnic origin were interviewed with regard to clinical mumps history and their sera were tested for complement fixation (CF) mumps antibodies. OCa patients differed from the controls in the response to past mumps infection in two respects: 1) They appeared to be more likely to have developed subclinical mumps as evidenced by a lower rate of clinical mumps history in the presence of serological evidence of similar infection rates among those with positive and those with negative clinical mumps history. 2) They tended to present lower persistent mumps CF antibody titers. These results may be interpreted to indicate that an immunological incompetence enables the development of OCa possibly through a direct etiologic role of mumps virus.", "PMID": 445337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7036", "title": "Duodenal carcinoid (apudoma) with psammoma bodies: a light and electron microscopic study.", "content": "An extremely rare case of psammomatous calcification in a nonfunctioning duodenal carcinoid tumor was studied by light and electron microscopy. The psammoma bodies were found most frequently within the lumina of the neoplastic glands. The ultrastructural features of the psammoma bodies were the marginal needle-shaped crystals and a coarse granular matrix in which a few organelles were embedded. The psammoma bodies appeared to be occasionally intracytoplasmic in position, showing no distinct limiting cytoplasmic membrane. Electron probe x-ray microanalysis revealed that the needle-shaped crystals contained calcium. The mechanism by which the psammoma bodies are formed has not been clearly explained. The above findings support the view that the psammoma bodies may occur initially in the cytoplasm of the tumor cells, followed by their release probably in a way of active excretion.", "contents": "Duodenal carcinoid (apudoma) with psammoma bodies: a light and electron microscopic study. An extremely rare case of psammomatous calcification in a nonfunctioning duodenal carcinoid tumor was studied by light and electron microscopy. The psammoma bodies were found most frequently within the lumina of the neoplastic glands. The ultrastructural features of the psammoma bodies were the marginal needle-shaped crystals and a coarse granular matrix in which a few organelles were embedded. The psammoma bodies appeared to be occasionally intracytoplasmic in position, showing no distinct limiting cytoplasmic membrane. Electron probe x-ray microanalysis revealed that the needle-shaped crystals contained calcium. The mechanism by which the psammoma bodies are formed has not been clearly explained. The above findings support the view that the psammoma bodies may occur initially in the cytoplasm of the tumor cells, followed by their release probably in a way of active excretion.", "PMID": 445338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7037", "title": "Relation of pancreatic duct hyperplasia to carcinoma.", "content": "In order to find a relationship between ductal hyperplasia and carcinoma of the pancreas, histological and histochemical examinations were made on pancreatic specimens of 1,174 autopsy patients with special attention to the age incidence of the former. Ductal hyperplasia was divided into 3 types; nonpapillary, papillary, and atypical hyperplasia. All three types of hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma showed a similar tinctorial property in mucous histochemistry. In general, atypical hyperplasia was seen in the pancreas having papillary hyperplasia which was found in the pancreas associated with nonpapillary hyperplasia. All three types of hyperplasia were apparently more frequent in cancerous pancreases than in non-cancerous ones. They were also more common in the head of the pancreas than in the body and tail. Age incidence also suggests a sequential change from nonpapillary hyperplasia through papillary and atypical ones to carcinoma.", "contents": "Relation of pancreatic duct hyperplasia to carcinoma. In order to find a relationship between ductal hyperplasia and carcinoma of the pancreas, histological and histochemical examinations were made on pancreatic specimens of 1,174 autopsy patients with special attention to the age incidence of the former. Ductal hyperplasia was divided into 3 types; nonpapillary, papillary, and atypical hyperplasia. All three types of hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma showed a similar tinctorial property in mucous histochemistry. In general, atypical hyperplasia was seen in the pancreas having papillary hyperplasia which was found in the pancreas associated with nonpapillary hyperplasia. All three types of hyperplasia were apparently more frequent in cancerous pancreases than in non-cancerous ones. They were also more common in the head of the pancreas than in the body and tail. Age incidence also suggests a sequential change from nonpapillary hyperplasia through papillary and atypical ones to carcinoma.", "PMID": 445339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7038", "title": "Adenoma of parotid gland with sebaceous and oncocytic features.", "content": "A parotid tumor having sebaceous differentiation and a particular histologic picture previously undescribed is reported. The tumor showed features of an adenolymphoma but almost completely lacked a lymphoid component. Sebaceous differentiation was seen in the epithelium of many cysts. Additionally, groups of oxyphilic cells were scattered throughout the tumor. The literature concerning sebaceous differentiation in normal and tumor bearing parotid glands, as well as that concerning tumors with some sebaceous component, is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Adenoma of parotid gland with sebaceous and oncocytic features. A parotid tumor having sebaceous differentiation and a particular histologic picture previously undescribed is reported. The tumor showed features of an adenolymphoma but almost completely lacked a lymphoid component. Sebaceous differentiation was seen in the epithelium of many cysts. Additionally, groups of oxyphilic cells were scattered throughout the tumor. The literature concerning sebaceous differentiation in normal and tumor bearing parotid glands, as well as that concerning tumors with some sebaceous component, is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 445340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7039", "title": "Plasma triiodothyronine concentrations in breast cancer.", "content": "Plasma triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured in 44 early breast cancer patients, 48 with advanced breast cancer, 20 with cancer of the colon, and 56 healthy women of similar age. The plasma T3 concentrations were reduced significantly in both early and advanced breast cancer, but only in those colonic cancer patients with metastatic disease. The mean plasma TSH levels were higher in the breast cancer patients than in the other groups, but the increase was significant statistically only in the advanced disease. There was a negative correlation between plasma TSH and T3 in early breast cancer, but not in advanced breast cancer. All cancer groups had normal plasma T4 levels. It is concluded that a proportion of breast cancer patients are mildly hypothyroid, as judged by elevated plasma TSH and reduced T3 levels. In advanced cancer, other \"nonspecific\" factors also act to reduce the plasma T3.", "contents": "Plasma triiodothyronine concentrations in breast cancer. Plasma triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured in 44 early breast cancer patients, 48 with advanced breast cancer, 20 with cancer of the colon, and 56 healthy women of similar age. The plasma T3 concentrations were reduced significantly in both early and advanced breast cancer, but only in those colonic cancer patients with metastatic disease. The mean plasma TSH levels were higher in the breast cancer patients than in the other groups, but the increase was significant statistically only in the advanced disease. There was a negative correlation between plasma TSH and T3 in early breast cancer, but not in advanced breast cancer. All cancer groups had normal plasma T4 levels. It is concluded that a proportion of breast cancer patients are mildly hypothyroid, as judged by elevated plasma TSH and reduced T3 levels. In advanced cancer, other \"nonspecific\" factors also act to reduce the plasma T3.", "PMID": 445341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7040", "title": "Clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium.", "content": "The clinical data of 22 patients with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium treated at the University of North Carolina Memorial Hospital are reported. In addition, the data with particular reference to survival, site of recurrence, and treatment are combined with information from two previous reports of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium to better define survival. It is noted that the patients with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium were older and had an overall poorer survival than is reported for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium (nonclear cell). Patients with Stage I clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium, however, had a similar five-year survival to Stage I adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. The paper also examines treatment methods and correlates these with site of recurrence as well as survival.", "contents": "Clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium. The clinical data of 22 patients with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium treated at the University of North Carolina Memorial Hospital are reported. In addition, the data with particular reference to survival, site of recurrence, and treatment are combined with information from two previous reports of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium to better define survival. It is noted that the patients with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium were older and had an overall poorer survival than is reported for adenocarcinoma of the endometrium (nonclear cell). Patients with Stage I clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium, however, had a similar five-year survival to Stage I adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. The paper also examines treatment methods and correlates these with site of recurrence as well as survival.", "PMID": 445342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7041", "title": "Human chorionic gonadotropin and malignant mesothelioma.", "content": "A 56-year-old male presented with ascites and gynecomastia. Laparoscopy demonstrated peritoneal tumors which were biopsied. Conventional histology and electron microscopy revealed the tumor to be a malignant mesothelioma. The ascitic fluid and tumor cell lysate, but not serum, contained hCG by specific assay, and the immunoreactive hCG had characteristics similar to purified hCG in filtration on Sephadex G-100. Malignant mesothelioma is a tumor which may be associated with elevated hCG concentrations. Demonstration of hCG in ascitic fluid should suggest the presence of neoplasm.", "contents": "Human chorionic gonadotropin and malignant mesothelioma. A 56-year-old male presented with ascites and gynecomastia. Laparoscopy demonstrated peritoneal tumors which were biopsied. Conventional histology and electron microscopy revealed the tumor to be a malignant mesothelioma. The ascitic fluid and tumor cell lysate, but not serum, contained hCG by specific assay, and the immunoreactive hCG had characteristics similar to purified hCG in filtration on Sephadex G-100. Malignant mesothelioma is a tumor which may be associated with elevated hCG concentrations. Demonstration of hCG in ascitic fluid should suggest the presence of neoplasm.", "PMID": 445343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7042", "title": "Evaluation of the office endometrial biopsy in the detection of endometrial carcinoma and atypical hyperplasia.", "content": "The purpose of this study is to assess the accuracy and limitations of the outpatient endometrial biopsy in detection of endometrial carcinoma and atypical hyperplasia. This was done by reviewing all the endometrial material from the 891 women at this clinic whose first endometrial sample in 1974 was by the biopsy technique. The results of this material were correlated with subsequently available additional uterine samples obtained over a three year period by biopsy, dilatation and curettage, or hysterectomy. The detection rate by biopsy for the 21 cases of endometrial carcinoma proven by hysterectomy was 81%. There was a 5% false negative rate and no false positives. For the 25 cases of atypical hyperplasia proven by hysterectomy, the detection rate by biopsy was 68%. There was lack of hysterectomy confirmation in 33% and 24% false negatives. Insufficient material was obtained initially in 9% of the 891 women. Five percent of this group were found at hysterectomy to have either endometrial carcinoma or atypical hyperplasia. With an understanding of its limitations, the endometrial biopsy, although somewhat less accurate than the D & C, is considered to be a useful diagnostic tool for detection of these lesions.", "contents": "Evaluation of the office endometrial biopsy in the detection of endometrial carcinoma and atypical hyperplasia. The purpose of this study is to assess the accuracy and limitations of the outpatient endometrial biopsy in detection of endometrial carcinoma and atypical hyperplasia. This was done by reviewing all the endometrial material from the 891 women at this clinic whose first endometrial sample in 1974 was by the biopsy technique. The results of this material were correlated with subsequently available additional uterine samples obtained over a three year period by biopsy, dilatation and curettage, or hysterectomy. The detection rate by biopsy for the 21 cases of endometrial carcinoma proven by hysterectomy was 81%. There was a 5% false negative rate and no false positives. For the 25 cases of atypical hyperplasia proven by hysterectomy, the detection rate by biopsy was 68%. There was lack of hysterectomy confirmation in 33% and 24% false negatives. Insufficient material was obtained initially in 9% of the 891 women. Five percent of this group were found at hysterectomy to have either endometrial carcinoma or atypical hyperplasia. With an understanding of its limitations, the endometrial biopsy, although somewhat less accurate than the D & C, is considered to be a useful diagnostic tool for detection of these lesions.", "PMID": 445344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7043", "title": "Axillary lesions in patients with acute leukemia: evaluation of a preventive program.", "content": "Axillary skin lesions can cause significant morbidity in patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia. The incidence in relation to the level of circulating granulocytes and the microbiology of 15 such lesions among 150 patients over a three year period were determined. Lesions occurred predominantly during periods of profound granulocytopenia (0-499 cells/microliter). Gram-negative bacilli were the most common pathogens isolated from these lesions. The initiation of a supervised preventive program for 84 patients over 19 months which includes the regular swabbing of each axilla with povidone-iodine cotton sticks in addition to measures to avoid skin trauma has virtually eliminated inflammatory axillary lesions in this high risk patient population.", "contents": "Axillary lesions in patients with acute leukemia: evaluation of a preventive program. Axillary skin lesions can cause significant morbidity in patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia. The incidence in relation to the level of circulating granulocytes and the microbiology of 15 such lesions among 150 patients over a three year period were determined. Lesions occurred predominantly during periods of profound granulocytopenia (0-499 cells/microliter). Gram-negative bacilli were the most common pathogens isolated from these lesions. The initiation of a supervised preventive program for 84 patients over 19 months which includes the regular swabbing of each axilla with povidone-iodine cotton sticks in addition to measures to avoid skin trauma has virtually eliminated inflammatory axillary lesions in this high risk patient population.", "PMID": 445345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7044", "title": "Multiple myeloma masquerading as chromophobe adenoma.", "content": "A 62-year-old woman presenting with intracranial lesion eroding the sella with compression of optic chiasma was found to have plasmacytoma of the pituitary area. At the time of initial surgery, the patient had no biochemical, immunologic or marrow findings of multiple myeloma. The intracranial tumor was interpreted initially as chromophobe adenoma on light microscopy, but the diagnosis of plasmacytoma was established by electron microscopic examination of the tumor. The case illustrates the usefulness of electron microscopy as a diagnostic tool.", "contents": "Multiple myeloma masquerading as chromophobe adenoma. A 62-year-old woman presenting with intracranial lesion eroding the sella with compression of optic chiasma was found to have plasmacytoma of the pituitary area. At the time of initial surgery, the patient had no biochemical, immunologic or marrow findings of multiple myeloma. The intracranial tumor was interpreted initially as chromophobe adenoma on light microscopy, but the diagnosis of plasmacytoma was established by electron microscopic examination of the tumor. The case illustrates the usefulness of electron microscopy as a diagnostic tool.", "PMID": 445346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7045", "title": "Cancer of the nasal cavity and ethmoid/sphenoid sinuses.", "content": "During the period from October 1964 to September 1975, 32 patients were treated at the University of Florida for a variety of malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and ethmoid/sphenoid sinuses. All were treated with radical irradiation, 6091 to 7972 rad, in 6 to 9 weeks, cobalt-60. Pretreatment work-up revealed evidence of orbital invasion in 7 patients and involvement of the cranial contents, base of skull, or nasopharynx in an additional 15 patients. Local control was achieved in 95% of nasal cavity cases and 71% of ethmoid/sphenoid sinus cases at 2 years or more. The 5-year actuarial survival rate was 59%, and 5-year survival without evidence of disease was 50% (13/26). Patterns of extension in advanced lesions are clues to potential undetected extension in early cases which must be included in the treatment volume. Eye complications were minimal when it was possible to avoid treatment of the entire eye, but developed in all cases requiring treatment of the entire orbit. Acute and chronic complications involving the eye, ear, central nervous system, sinuses, and nose were reviewed and correlated with initial tumor extent, dose, and radiation treatment technique.", "contents": "Cancer of the nasal cavity and ethmoid/sphenoid sinuses. During the period from October 1964 to September 1975, 32 patients were treated at the University of Florida for a variety of malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and ethmoid/sphenoid sinuses. All were treated with radical irradiation, 6091 to 7972 rad, in 6 to 9 weeks, cobalt-60. Pretreatment work-up revealed evidence of orbital invasion in 7 patients and involvement of the cranial contents, base of skull, or nasopharynx in an additional 15 patients. Local control was achieved in 95% of nasal cavity cases and 71% of ethmoid/sphenoid sinus cases at 2 years or more. The 5-year actuarial survival rate was 59%, and 5-year survival without evidence of disease was 50% (13/26). Patterns of extension in advanced lesions are clues to potential undetected extension in early cases which must be included in the treatment volume. Eye complications were minimal when it was possible to avoid treatment of the entire eye, but developed in all cases requiring treatment of the entire orbit. Acute and chronic complications involving the eye, ear, central nervous system, sinuses, and nose were reviewed and correlated with initial tumor extent, dose, and radiation treatment technique.", "PMID": 445347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7046", "title": "Laryngeal mycosis fungoides.", "content": "Mycosis fungoides presented as a tumor of the arytenoid cartilage and epiglottis of the larynx of an 80-year-old female. The tumor was initially interpreted as an undifferentiated small cell malignant neoplasm and treated with radiation. Two years later the patient developed widespread cutaneous involvement with mycosis fungoides, including mycosis fungoides bullosum. The mycosis fungoides progressed to death over the next two years. At autopsy widespread visceral involvement was present. The larynx was extensively infiltrated with mycosis fungoides, and the histology was similar to the original laryngeal biopsy. Although mycosis fungoides is generally thought of as a cutaneous disease, it may rarely present in a squamous epithelium-lined organ other than the skin.", "contents": "Laryngeal mycosis fungoides. Mycosis fungoides presented as a tumor of the arytenoid cartilage and epiglottis of the larynx of an 80-year-old female. The tumor was initially interpreted as an undifferentiated small cell malignant neoplasm and treated with radiation. Two years later the patient developed widespread cutaneous involvement with mycosis fungoides, including mycosis fungoides bullosum. The mycosis fungoides progressed to death over the next two years. At autopsy widespread visceral involvement was present. The larynx was extensively infiltrated with mycosis fungoides, and the histology was similar to the original laryngeal biopsy. Although mycosis fungoides is generally thought of as a cutaneous disease, it may rarely present in a squamous epithelium-lined organ other than the skin.", "PMID": 445348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7047", "title": "Pulmonary neoplasms diagnosed with transthoracic needle biopsy.", "content": "Results of transthoracic needle biopsy have been evaluated on the basis of fourteen years experience comprising 5300 procedures on 2726 patients. In 90.7% of the cases a diagnosis was established. Of these, 46.4% showed cytological evidence of primary or secondary malignancy. In 2.4% false positives and in 3% false negatives were noted. The most important complication was found to be pneumothorax, which was noted in 27.2%, but these cases did not as a rule call for treatment. Hemoptysis was observed in 2-5%. There was minor local bleeding around the lesion in 11% of the patients but this only required observation. In one case out of 1264 malignancies an implantation metastasis was found. There was a single case of air embolism with spontaneous recovery, but no mortality in this series. In our experience, needle biopsy represents a minor, inexpensive and safe procedure, which--with a simple technique--permits a direct approach to all kinds of localized lung lesion with a high degree of accuracy.", "contents": "Pulmonary neoplasms diagnosed with transthoracic needle biopsy. Results of transthoracic needle biopsy have been evaluated on the basis of fourteen years experience comprising 5300 procedures on 2726 patients. In 90.7% of the cases a diagnosis was established. Of these, 46.4% showed cytological evidence of primary or secondary malignancy. In 2.4% false positives and in 3% false negatives were noted. The most important complication was found to be pneumothorax, which was noted in 27.2%, but these cases did not as a rule call for treatment. Hemoptysis was observed in 2-5%. There was minor local bleeding around the lesion in 11% of the patients but this only required observation. In one case out of 1264 malignancies an implantation metastasis was found. There was a single case of air embolism with spontaneous recovery, but no mortality in this series. In our experience, needle biopsy represents a minor, inexpensive and safe procedure, which--with a simple technique--permits a direct approach to all kinds of localized lung lesion with a high degree of accuracy.", "PMID": 445349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7048", "title": "Thin-needle aspiration biopsy: the diagnosis of head and neck tumors revisited.", "content": "Results of 567 thin-needle aspiration biopsies of head and neck lesions are reviewed. Cases included lymph nodes, salivary glands, thyroid, soft tissue and bone lesions. For the entire series, 17 patients had unsatisfactory aspirations. There were 12 false negative reports and 4 false positive reports, rates of 2.1% and 0.7%, respectively. No radical treatment resulted from false positive diagnoses and no patient delay in treatment occurred because of false negative reports. In the case of benign and malignant tumors, reports were histologically specific in more than 98% of the cases. This technique is simple to perform and saves time and hospital costs. Thin-needle aspiration biopsy can be effectively used in the management and diagnosis of head and neck tumor patients where close cooperation of the clinician and cytopathologist exists.", "contents": "Thin-needle aspiration biopsy: the diagnosis of head and neck tumors revisited. Results of 567 thin-needle aspiration biopsies of head and neck lesions are reviewed. Cases included lymph nodes, salivary glands, thyroid, soft tissue and bone lesions. For the entire series, 17 patients had unsatisfactory aspirations. There were 12 false negative reports and 4 false positive reports, rates of 2.1% and 0.7%, respectively. No radical treatment resulted from false positive diagnoses and no patient delay in treatment occurred because of false negative reports. In the case of benign and malignant tumors, reports were histologically specific in more than 98% of the cases. This technique is simple to perform and saves time and hospital costs. Thin-needle aspiration biopsy can be effectively used in the management and diagnosis of head and neck tumor patients where close cooperation of the clinician and cytopathologist exists.", "PMID": 445350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7049", "title": "Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.", "content": "The relevant literature is reviewed in an attempt to clarify the true frequency of intraesophageal adenocarcinoma and to evaluate the different treatment modalities and survival of this uncommon type of tumor. The incidence of intraesophageal adenocarcinoma in reported clinical series is about 1%, and data from cancer registries show the incidence to be about 2% for upper and the middle thirds, a more reliable figure than that for the lower third in which lesions of cardia, or stomach infiltrating the lower esophagus have been included. The benefits of any particular treatment modality are difficult to evaluate in view of the rarity of this type of tumor, and the treatment results are as poor as those obtained in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma.", "contents": "Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. The relevant literature is reviewed in an attempt to clarify the true frequency of intraesophageal adenocarcinoma and to evaluate the different treatment modalities and survival of this uncommon type of tumor. The incidence of intraesophageal adenocarcinoma in reported clinical series is about 1%, and data from cancer registries show the incidence to be about 2% for upper and the middle thirds, a more reliable figure than that for the lower third in which lesions of cardia, or stomach infiltrating the lower esophagus have been included. The benefits of any particular treatment modality are difficult to evaluate in view of the rarity of this type of tumor, and the treatment results are as poor as those obtained in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma.", "PMID": 445351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7050", "title": "Endometriosis of the urinary bladder in a man with prostatic carcinoma.", "content": "A case of endometriosis of the urinary bladder in a man is described. The patient had been treated with estrogen for several years following radical prostatectomy and orchiectomy for prostatic carcinoma. The only other reported case of endometriosis in a male presented in a strikingly similar manner. Pathogenic speculations are briefly presented.", "contents": "Endometriosis of the urinary bladder in a man with prostatic carcinoma. A case of endometriosis of the urinary bladder in a man is described. The patient had been treated with estrogen for several years following radical prostatectomy and orchiectomy for prostatic carcinoma. The only other reported case of endometriosis in a male presented in a strikingly similar manner. Pathogenic speculations are briefly presented.", "PMID": 445352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7051", "title": "Written informed consent in patients with breast cancer.", "content": "One hundred breast cancer patients, 35 adjuvant and 65 advanced, were interviewed 0-24 months after the start of chemotherapy to assess their knowledge and perceptions of the purposes, risks and benefits of treatment. Prior to therapy, all had been given verbal explanations and had signed informed consent forms explicitly detailing drugs, objectives and possible adverse effects of therapy. Seventeen percent of adjuvant and 29% of advanced patients were unable to name any of their drugs. While most patients recognized distressing side effects such as nausea and hair loss, less than 50% were aware of the potentially lethal complications of infection and bleeding. While the purpose of adjuvant therapy was cure, only 29% of the adjuvant patients were aware of this. In contrast, 35% of the advanced patients incorrectly stated that they were told their therapy was potentially curative. Explanations given by a nurse in addition to a physician were better understood than those given by a physician alone. We conclude that, in spite of intensive efforts at improving informed consent procedures, current results are unsatisfactory.", "contents": "Written informed consent in patients with breast cancer. One hundred breast cancer patients, 35 adjuvant and 65 advanced, were interviewed 0-24 months after the start of chemotherapy to assess their knowledge and perceptions of the purposes, risks and benefits of treatment. Prior to therapy, all had been given verbal explanations and had signed informed consent forms explicitly detailing drugs, objectives and possible adverse effects of therapy. Seventeen percent of adjuvant and 29% of advanced patients were unable to name any of their drugs. While most patients recognized distressing side effects such as nausea and hair loss, less than 50% were aware of the potentially lethal complications of infection and bleeding. While the purpose of adjuvant therapy was cure, only 29% of the adjuvant patients were aware of this. In contrast, 35% of the advanced patients incorrectly stated that they were told their therapy was potentially curative. Explanations given by a nurse in addition to a physician were better understood than those given by a physician alone. We conclude that, in spite of intensive efforts at improving informed consent procedures, current results are unsatisfactory.", "PMID": 445353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7052", "title": "Extrapyramidal tract syndrome following intensive MOPP therapy for stage IV-B Hodgkin's disease in childhood.", "content": "An extrapyramidal tract syndrome is reported in an 11-year-old boy following treatment of Hodgkin's disease. Results of investigations and the possible pathophysiology of this disorder are discussed.", "contents": "Extrapyramidal tract syndrome following intensive MOPP therapy for stage IV-B Hodgkin's disease in childhood. An extrapyramidal tract syndrome is reported in an 11-year-old boy following treatment of Hodgkin's disease. Results of investigations and the possible pathophysiology of this disorder are discussed.", "PMID": 445354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7053", "title": "Pulmonary toxicity of bischloronitrosourea: report of a case with transient response to corticosteroid therapy.", "content": "A case of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis secondary to bischloronitrosourea (BCNU) in a 49-year-old man with carcinoma of the pancreas is reported. The diagnosis was suggested by deteriorating oxygenation, restrictive changes on pulmonary function studies, and increased interstitial markings radiographically in the lower lung fields. Transbronchial biopsy excluded infectious etiologies and confirmed a bland nonspecific interstitial pulmonary fibrosis of recent origin. The patient responded dramatically to high dose corticosteroids, but relapsed when the corticosteroids were decreased. We believe there is now convincing evidence that prolonged use of BCNU can cause potentially fatal interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. Patients should be followed with serial chest radiographs and pulmonary function studies. If diagnosed early, this process may respond to high dose corticosteroid therapy.", "contents": "Pulmonary toxicity of bischloronitrosourea: report of a case with transient response to corticosteroid therapy. A case of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis secondary to bischloronitrosourea (BCNU) in a 49-year-old man with carcinoma of the pancreas is reported. The diagnosis was suggested by deteriorating oxygenation, restrictive changes on pulmonary function studies, and increased interstitial markings radiographically in the lower lung fields. Transbronchial biopsy excluded infectious etiologies and confirmed a bland nonspecific interstitial pulmonary fibrosis of recent origin. The patient responded dramatically to high dose corticosteroids, but relapsed when the corticosteroids were decreased. We believe there is now convincing evidence that prolonged use of BCNU can cause potentially fatal interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. Patients should be followed with serial chest radiographs and pulmonary function studies. If diagnosed early, this process may respond to high dose corticosteroid therapy.", "PMID": 445356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7054", "title": "Nodular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL): factors influencing prognosis and indications for aggressive treatment.", "content": "In this study we have analyzed a group of 86 consecutive previously untreated patients with nodular lymphoma in order to determine those factors which adversely effect survival. Sixty-two percent of these patients are still living; 23 patients for greater than 36 months. In contrast, 38% have died; 28% of them within 24 months of diagnosis. Striking correlations with short survival were seen with histiocytic cell type, Ann Arbor B symptoms and advanced age. Survival also declined with advanced stage but was A or B symptom dependent. The group was further subdivided into those with exclusively nodular and those with mixed nodular and diffuse histology in order to determine whether the presence of a diffuse component had a negative influence. No significant differences were found in survival patterns between these 2 groups. Our results clearly define a subgroup of nodular lymphoma patients with a poor prognosis which is likely to benefit most from aggressive treatment. The remaining patients are surviving for longer periods of time (albeit many not disease free) and the appropriate treatment for this group remains controversial.", "contents": "Nodular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL): factors influencing prognosis and indications for aggressive treatment. In this study we have analyzed a group of 86 consecutive previously untreated patients with nodular lymphoma in order to determine those factors which adversely effect survival. Sixty-two percent of these patients are still living; 23 patients for greater than 36 months. In contrast, 38% have died; 28% of them within 24 months of diagnosis. Striking correlations with short survival were seen with histiocytic cell type, Ann Arbor B symptoms and advanced age. Survival also declined with advanced stage but was A or B symptom dependent. The group was further subdivided into those with exclusively nodular and those with mixed nodular and diffuse histology in order to determine whether the presence of a diffuse component had a negative influence. No significant differences were found in survival patterns between these 2 groups. Our results clearly define a subgroup of nodular lymphoma patients with a poor prognosis which is likely to benefit most from aggressive treatment. The remaining patients are surviving for longer periods of time (albeit many not disease free) and the appropriate treatment for this group remains controversial.", "PMID": 445357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7055", "title": "Malignant fibrosarcomatous mesothelioma and benign pleural fibroma (localized fibrous mesothelioma) in tissue culture: a comparison of the in vitro pattern of growth in relation to the cell of origin.", "content": "Two cases of fibrous mesothelioma are presented. The first is a malignant tumor containing bundles of spindle-shaped cells with a dense reticulin network and nests of epithelial-like cells. The second is a benign tumor made up of spindle-shaped cells arranged in bundles with abundant reticulin and collagen fibers. Tissue culture in the first case revealed plagues similar to those formed by epithelial tumors. The second case had a fibroblastic pattern with single isolated spindle-shaped cells. These findings confirmed the mesothelial nature of fibrosarcomatous mesothelioma and supported the view that the so-called localized fibrous mesotheliomas could be fibroblastic neoplasms derived from the submesothelial connective tissue.", "contents": "Malignant fibrosarcomatous mesothelioma and benign pleural fibroma (localized fibrous mesothelioma) in tissue culture: a comparison of the in vitro pattern of growth in relation to the cell of origin. Two cases of fibrous mesothelioma are presented. The first is a malignant tumor containing bundles of spindle-shaped cells with a dense reticulin network and nests of epithelial-like cells. The second is a benign tumor made up of spindle-shaped cells arranged in bundles with abundant reticulin and collagen fibers. Tissue culture in the first case revealed plagues similar to those formed by epithelial tumors. The second case had a fibroblastic pattern with single isolated spindle-shaped cells. These findings confirmed the mesothelial nature of fibrosarcomatous mesothelioma and supported the view that the so-called localized fibrous mesotheliomas could be fibroblastic neoplasms derived from the submesothelial connective tissue.", "PMID": 445358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7056", "title": "Alveolar soft part sarcoma: a report of two cases with some histochemical and ultrastructural observations.", "content": "In a survey of all malignant soft tissue tumors in the extremities and limb girdles in Finland between 1960 and 1969, only one alveolar soft part sarcoma was found among 246 tumors (0.4%). Another alveolar soft part sarcoma, diagnosed in 1976, was more thoroughly studied. There was evidence that the characteristic crystals of alveolar soft part sarcoma are formed from the dense granules. Both were PASM-positive at ultrastructural level. No monoamines were detected in the cells by formaldehyde-induced fluorescence. This is a further fact to nullify the theory of the paraganglionic origin of alveolar soft part sarcoma, but the question of the histogenesis of the tumor still remains open.", "contents": "Alveolar soft part sarcoma: a report of two cases with some histochemical and ultrastructural observations. In a survey of all malignant soft tissue tumors in the extremities and limb girdles in Finland between 1960 and 1969, only one alveolar soft part sarcoma was found among 246 tumors (0.4%). Another alveolar soft part sarcoma, diagnosed in 1976, was more thoroughly studied. There was evidence that the characteristic crystals of alveolar soft part sarcoma are formed from the dense granules. Both were PASM-positive at ultrastructural level. No monoamines were detected in the cells by formaldehyde-induced fluorescence. This is a further fact to nullify the theory of the paraganglionic origin of alveolar soft part sarcoma, but the question of the histogenesis of the tumor still remains open.", "PMID": 445359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7057", "title": "A nonfunctioning paraganglioma of vagus nerve: an ultrastructural study.", "content": "The clinical, histological, and ultrastructural aspects of a cervical paraganglioma of the vagus nerve, in a 66-year-old white man, have been discussed in detail. Ultrastructurally, the tumor chief cells contained characteristic membrane-bound and dense-cored neurosecretory granules which ranged in size from 85 millimicron to 190 millimicron. Unlike earlier ultrastructural reports, the present study showed the presence of sustentacular or supporting cells. These cells were smaller, darker, polymorphic, and were commonly located at the periphery of a single or group of chief cells. Furthermore, unlike earlier reports on vagal paragangliomas, nonmyelinated nerve fibers and an occasional axon were identified in the present fine structure study.", "contents": "A nonfunctioning paraganglioma of vagus nerve: an ultrastructural study. The clinical, histological, and ultrastructural aspects of a cervical paraganglioma of the vagus nerve, in a 66-year-old white man, have been discussed in detail. Ultrastructurally, the tumor chief cells contained characteristic membrane-bound and dense-cored neurosecretory granules which ranged in size from 85 millimicron to 190 millimicron. Unlike earlier ultrastructural reports, the present study showed the presence of sustentacular or supporting cells. These cells were smaller, darker, polymorphic, and were commonly located at the periphery of a single or group of chief cells. Furthermore, unlike earlier reports on vagal paragangliomas, nonmyelinated nerve fibers and an occasional axon were identified in the present fine structure study.", "PMID": 445360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7058", "title": "Latent thyroid carcinoma at autopsy: a study from Oporto, Portugal.", "content": "Thirty-nine (6.5%) latent thyroid carcinomas were found in 600 thyroid glands removed at autopsy in Oporto Medical School Laboratory of Pathology. The prevalence of latent thyroid carcinomas was significantly higher in women (sex ratio 4.3:1) and in elderly people (p less than 0.005) and appeared to be independent from the existence of another malignant neoplasm. The mean thyroid weight and the concurrent thyroid pathology of patients with thyroid carcinomas were not significantly different from those of patients without them. The study of cervical lymph nodes in the first 400 autopsies did not show any significant difference concerning histologic pattern, number of germinal centers and sinus histiocytosis between patients with thyroid carcinomas and those without them. Further investigation is required to evaluate the role of host factors on the peculiar characteristics of latent thyroid carcinomas.", "contents": "Latent thyroid carcinoma at autopsy: a study from Oporto, Portugal. Thirty-nine (6.5%) latent thyroid carcinomas were found in 600 thyroid glands removed at autopsy in Oporto Medical School Laboratory of Pathology. The prevalence of latent thyroid carcinomas was significantly higher in women (sex ratio 4.3:1) and in elderly people (p less than 0.005) and appeared to be independent from the existence of another malignant neoplasm. The mean thyroid weight and the concurrent thyroid pathology of patients with thyroid carcinomas were not significantly different from those of patients without them. The study of cervical lymph nodes in the first 400 autopsies did not show any significant difference concerning histologic pattern, number of germinal centers and sinus histiocytosis between patients with thyroid carcinomas and those without them. Further investigation is required to evaluate the role of host factors on the peculiar characteristics of latent thyroid carcinomas.", "PMID": 445361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7059", "title": "The cell kinetics of human mammary cancers.", "content": "The cellular kinetics of human mammary tumors were studied by in vitro methods. These techniques include single 3HTdR labeling to measure the 3HTdR LI, double labeling with 3HTdR and 14CTdR to measure DNA synthesis time, and an estimation of the growth fraction by the PDP index. Calculations of the potential doubling time and cell cycle time were made from these measurements. The 3HTdR LI of primary malignant tumors was greater than that of benign tumors, but only half that of metastatic lesions. There was considerable heterogeneity in the 3HTdR LI of primary tumors, but the DNA synthesis times were relatively invariant. Estimation of the growth fraction by the PDP index also revealed extensive heterogeneity, but the primary tumors were not different from metastases. There appear to be subsets of tumors with high and low proliferative values that correlate with some clinical parameters, such as age and nodal positivity. This material provides a data base for stratification of patients for future protocols and the use of cell kinetics in treatment programs.", "contents": "The cell kinetics of human mammary cancers. The cellular kinetics of human mammary tumors were studied by in vitro methods. These techniques include single 3HTdR labeling to measure the 3HTdR LI, double labeling with 3HTdR and 14CTdR to measure DNA synthesis time, and an estimation of the growth fraction by the PDP index. Calculations of the potential doubling time and cell cycle time were made from these measurements. The 3HTdR LI of primary malignant tumors was greater than that of benign tumors, but only half that of metastatic lesions. There was considerable heterogeneity in the 3HTdR LI of primary tumors, but the DNA synthesis times were relatively invariant. Estimation of the growth fraction by the PDP index also revealed extensive heterogeneity, but the primary tumors were not different from metastases. There appear to be subsets of tumors with high and low proliferative values that correlate with some clinical parameters, such as age and nodal positivity. This material provides a data base for stratification of patients for future protocols and the use of cell kinetics in treatment programs.", "PMID": 445362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7060", "title": "Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus: an electron microscopic study of the low grade and the high grade variants.", "content": "Two cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus--one a low grade tumor and the other a high grade tumor--are presented with findings by light and electron microscopy. This represents the first report of the ultrastructure of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus and demonstrates the ultrastructural similarities between the low grade exophytic tumor confined to the bronchus and the high grade infiltrating tumor with lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The ultrastructural features are similar to those described for mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary gland and are consistent with the proposed origin of the tumor from the submucosal bronchial gland duct. These two cases and a review of previously reported cases indicate that, analogous to mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary glands, mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus may occur as either a low grade or high grade variant which can be identified on the basis of growth characteristics and histologic features.", "contents": "Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus: an electron microscopic study of the low grade and the high grade variants. Two cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus--one a low grade tumor and the other a high grade tumor--are presented with findings by light and electron microscopy. This represents the first report of the ultrastructure of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus and demonstrates the ultrastructural similarities between the low grade exophytic tumor confined to the bronchus and the high grade infiltrating tumor with lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The ultrastructural features are similar to those described for mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary gland and are consistent with the proposed origin of the tumor from the submucosal bronchial gland duct. These two cases and a review of previously reported cases indicate that, analogous to mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary glands, mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the bronchus may occur as either a low grade or high grade variant which can be identified on the basis of growth characteristics and histologic features.", "PMID": 445363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7061", "title": "Ploidy and proliferation in human bladder tumors as measured by flow-cytofluorometric DNA-analysis and its relations to histopathology and cytology.", "content": "Biopsies from bladder tumors of 41 patients were investigated by flow-cytofluorometric DNA analysis and compared with exfoliated cells. The degrees of ploidy and proliferation were determined. Good agreement was found between the degrees of ploidy and proliferation in the biopsies and the exfoliated cell material. Tumors Grade I-II were either euploid or aneuploid. All Grade III tumors were aneuploid. The S-phase fractions were about 6% in the diploid tumors and 17% with large variations in the aneuploid tumors. The histological grading was well correlated to the number of S-phase cells and the occurrence of aneuploidy. When the Grade II tumors were divided into two groups having lesser and more pronounced atypia, the two groups differed significantly with regard to their degrees of proliferation. In addition to aneuploidy as an important criterium for malignancy, the degree of proliferation appears to be of major biological significance.", "contents": "Ploidy and proliferation in human bladder tumors as measured by flow-cytofluorometric DNA-analysis and its relations to histopathology and cytology. Biopsies from bladder tumors of 41 patients were investigated by flow-cytofluorometric DNA analysis and compared with exfoliated cells. The degrees of ploidy and proliferation were determined. Good agreement was found between the degrees of ploidy and proliferation in the biopsies and the exfoliated cell material. Tumors Grade I-II were either euploid or aneuploid. All Grade III tumors were aneuploid. The S-phase fractions were about 6% in the diploid tumors and 17% with large variations in the aneuploid tumors. The histological grading was well correlated to the number of S-phase cells and the occurrence of aneuploidy. When the Grade II tumors were divided into two groups having lesser and more pronounced atypia, the two groups differed significantly with regard to their degrees of proliferation. In addition to aneuploidy as an important criterium for malignancy, the degree of proliferation appears to be of major biological significance.", "PMID": 445364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7062", "title": "Idiopathic myelofibrosis without splenomegaly.", "content": "The patient described has had idiopathic myelofibrosis for 8 years. At the time of presentation, 12% of the circulating white cells were myeloblasts. In the past two years, the white blood count has been as high as 18,000/mm3 with 50% myeloblasts. Of significance is the absence of splenomegaly over the eight year period of observation. The rarity of the absence of significant splenomegaly and the presence of large numbers of circulating myeloblasts in idiopathic myelofibrosis are reviewed.", "contents": "Idiopathic myelofibrosis without splenomegaly. The patient described has had idiopathic myelofibrosis for 8 years. At the time of presentation, 12% of the circulating white cells were myeloblasts. In the past two years, the white blood count has been as high as 18,000/mm3 with 50% myeloblasts. Of significance is the absence of splenomegaly over the eight year period of observation. The rarity of the absence of significant splenomegaly and the presence of large numbers of circulating myeloblasts in idiopathic myelofibrosis are reviewed.", "PMID": 445365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7063", "title": "Glycoproteins and human cancer. 1. Circulating levels in cancer serum.", "content": "Total protein and sialic acid levels were determined in the supernatant of serum treated with perchloric acid. Patients with either localized or advanced metastatic malignancy have significantly elevated mean serum values. The highest levels occur in patients with lung, GI, GYN cancer, lymphoma and malignant melanoma. Patients with leukemia and multiple myeloma have slightly elevated values, but they were not significantly different from normal. Patients following curative surgery have normal values while patients in clinical remission following chemotherapy have elevated mean serum protein and NANA levels. Elevated values also occur in patients with benign tumors and 12% of patients with nonmalignant disease. Tumor cells appear to shed macromolecules which contribute to the observed elevation of serum protein and sialic acid levels.", "contents": "Glycoproteins and human cancer. 1. Circulating levels in cancer serum. Total protein and sialic acid levels were determined in the supernatant of serum treated with perchloric acid. Patients with either localized or advanced metastatic malignancy have significantly elevated mean serum values. The highest levels occur in patients with lung, GI, GYN cancer, lymphoma and malignant melanoma. Patients with leukemia and multiple myeloma have slightly elevated values, but they were not significantly different from normal. Patients following curative surgery have normal values while patients in clinical remission following chemotherapy have elevated mean serum protein and NANA levels. Elevated values also occur in patients with benign tumors and 12% of patients with nonmalignant disease. Tumor cells appear to shed macromolecules which contribute to the observed elevation of serum protein and sialic acid levels.", "PMID": 445366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7064", "title": "Hairy cell leukemia and sarcoid.", "content": "A 45-year-old female simultaneously developed both hairy cell leukemia and acute sarcoid. A defect in suppressor T lymphocytes which allowed an unrestrained B-cell proliferation manifested as both hairy cell leukemia and sarcoid is proposed.", "contents": "Hairy cell leukemia and sarcoid. A 45-year-old female simultaneously developed both hairy cell leukemia and acute sarcoid. A defect in suppressor T lymphocytes which allowed an unrestrained B-cell proliferation manifested as both hairy cell leukemia and sarcoid is proposed.", "PMID": 445367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7065", "title": "Screening for breast atypias using exfoliative cytology.", "content": "A sample of 1744 self-selected, mostly asymptomatic women was used to evaluate exfoliative cytology of nipple secretions as a screening technique for breast atypias. Results indicated: 1) overall frequency of breast fluid recovery was 49%, and related to age, phase of reproductive life, parity, history of lactation and birth control pill use at the time of sampling. 2) Frequency of satisfactory smears was 36% of breast fluid specimens, and related to subject's phase of reproductive life. 3) 2.8% of all satisfactory smears exhibited atypical cells. Biopsy of 4 subjects with atypical smears indicated 3 with nonmalignant epithelial atypias and 1 with early ductal carcinoma. Follow-up of women who did not have atypical smears indicated 12/1092 (1.1%) with nonmalignant epithelial atypias and none with carcinoma. 4) The number of cases of malignant (1) and nonmalignant (7) breast disease detected was close to the expected number in the population sampled (1.98 and 7.25, respectively).", "contents": "Screening for breast atypias using exfoliative cytology. A sample of 1744 self-selected, mostly asymptomatic women was used to evaluate exfoliative cytology of nipple secretions as a screening technique for breast atypias. Results indicated: 1) overall frequency of breast fluid recovery was 49%, and related to age, phase of reproductive life, parity, history of lactation and birth control pill use at the time of sampling. 2) Frequency of satisfactory smears was 36% of breast fluid specimens, and related to subject's phase of reproductive life. 3) 2.8% of all satisfactory smears exhibited atypical cells. Biopsy of 4 subjects with atypical smears indicated 3 with nonmalignant epithelial atypias and 1 with early ductal carcinoma. Follow-up of women who did not have atypical smears indicated 12/1092 (1.1%) with nonmalignant epithelial atypias and none with carcinoma. 4) The number of cases of malignant (1) and nonmalignant (7) breast disease detected was close to the expected number in the population sampled (1.98 and 7.25, respectively).", "PMID": 445368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7066", "title": "Pure and mixed Brenner tumors of the ovary: clinicopathologic and histogenetic observations.", "content": "Fifty-six Brenner tumors of 51 patients were analyzed. The incidence of bilaterality was 9.8%. Most tumors were smaller than 2 cm, and constituted incidental finding. Most of the patients were 30-49 years old (mean 49.7, main 44). A high incidence of associated malignant neoplasms was noticed among the patients with Brenner tumor but was considered coincidental. No evidence of hormone secretion by the tumor was found. Out of 31 tumors, 27 occupied the cortex. Urothelial metaplasia of the ovarian surface epithelium was demonstrated in one case, and continuation of the Brenner column with the surface of ovary in another. There were 12 cases of mixed Brenner tumor in this series (21.1%). The most frequent associated constituents of the mixed Brenner tumors are mucinous cystadenomas. These tumors represent a single mixed neoplasm originating in a multipotential celomic cell which proliferates and differentiates into several mullerian forms. The histogenesis of medullary and hilar Brenner tumors can be explained on the basis of celomic metaplasia. Uncertainty persists in explaining the histogenesis of Brenner tumors mixed with mature cystic teratoma.", "contents": "Pure and mixed Brenner tumors of the ovary: clinicopathologic and histogenetic observations. Fifty-six Brenner tumors of 51 patients were analyzed. The incidence of bilaterality was 9.8%. Most tumors were smaller than 2 cm, and constituted incidental finding. Most of the patients were 30-49 years old (mean 49.7, main 44). A high incidence of associated malignant neoplasms was noticed among the patients with Brenner tumor but was considered coincidental. No evidence of hormone secretion by the tumor was found. Out of 31 tumors, 27 occupied the cortex. Urothelial metaplasia of the ovarian surface epithelium was demonstrated in one case, and continuation of the Brenner column with the surface of ovary in another. There were 12 cases of mixed Brenner tumor in this series (21.1%). The most frequent associated constituents of the mixed Brenner tumors are mucinous cystadenomas. These tumors represent a single mixed neoplasm originating in a multipotential celomic cell which proliferates and differentiates into several mullerian forms. The histogenesis of medullary and hilar Brenner tumors can be explained on the basis of celomic metaplasia. Uncertainty persists in explaining the histogenesis of Brenner tumors mixed with mature cystic teratoma.", "PMID": 445369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7067", "title": "Adenomatous lesions of the large bowel: an autopsy survey.", "content": "A comprehensive autopsy survey of the large bowel showed that adenomas were very common lesions occurring in about one-half of the 518 cases studied. The great majority were small adenomatous polyps (tubular adenomas), 86.7% measuring less than 10 mm in diameter. Adenomas with a more complex tubulovillous pattern were larger with a mean diameter of 19.0 mm. There was no apparent incresae in mean size of adenomas with age. Nineteen clinically unsuspected cancers were discovered. Fourteen (8 in situ and 6 invasive) cancers had areas of residual benign adenoma. Five invasive cancers had no residual benign component. No in situ carcinomas or small (less than 10 mm) invasive cancers not containing residual adenoma were found. The results suggest that, although adenomas of the large bowel are very common, the vast majority are simple adenomatous polyps which do not undergo progressive growth and malignant change. Conversely, it appears that cancers may arise from benign adenomas which have the characteristics of large size and a more complex villous architecture.", "contents": "Adenomatous lesions of the large bowel: an autopsy survey. A comprehensive autopsy survey of the large bowel showed that adenomas were very common lesions occurring in about one-half of the 518 cases studied. The great majority were small adenomatous polyps (tubular adenomas), 86.7% measuring less than 10 mm in diameter. Adenomas with a more complex tubulovillous pattern were larger with a mean diameter of 19.0 mm. There was no apparent incresae in mean size of adenomas with age. Nineteen clinically unsuspected cancers were discovered. Fourteen (8 in situ and 6 invasive) cancers had areas of residual benign adenoma. Five invasive cancers had no residual benign component. No in situ carcinomas or small (less than 10 mm) invasive cancers not containing residual adenoma were found. The results suggest that, although adenomas of the large bowel are very common, the vast majority are simple adenomatous polyps which do not undergo progressive growth and malignant change. Conversely, it appears that cancers may arise from benign adenomas which have the characteristics of large size and a more complex villous architecture.", "PMID": 445371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7068", "title": "Spinal cord involvement in chronic lymphocytic leukemia.", "content": "A patient with typical chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who developed central nervous system involvement is presented. The CLL was of B-cell origin and the neurological involvement consisted of perivascular infiltration in the spinal cord.", "contents": "Spinal cord involvement in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. A patient with typical chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who developed central nervous system involvement is presented. The CLL was of B-cell origin and the neurological involvement consisted of perivascular infiltration in the spinal cord.", "PMID": 445372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7069", "title": "Hodgkin's disease, stages I and II occurring below the diaphragm.", "content": "Between February 12, 1968 and August 17, 1977, 473 consecutive patients with Hodgkin's disease were entered into protocol studies at Stanford University Medical Center (SUMC). 242 of these 473 patients were pathological Stage I or II; 223 patients had disease above the diaphragm and 19 patients had disease confined below the diaphragm. When compared to patients with disease above the diaphragm, patients with Hodgkin's disease below the diaphragm were more frequently male (74% vs. 53%, p = 0.14), were on the average older (40 vs. 27, p less than .005) and more frequently had the histologic subtype of mixed cellularity (32% vs. 12%, p = .04). There was no difference in either survival or relapse-free survival between patients with Hodgkin's disease above the diaphragm and patients with disease below the diaphragm receiving similar treatment plans.", "contents": "Hodgkin's disease, stages I and II occurring below the diaphragm. Between February 12, 1968 and August 17, 1977, 473 consecutive patients with Hodgkin's disease were entered into protocol studies at Stanford University Medical Center (SUMC). 242 of these 473 patients were pathological Stage I or II; 223 patients had disease above the diaphragm and 19 patients had disease confined below the diaphragm. When compared to patients with disease above the diaphragm, patients with Hodgkin's disease below the diaphragm were more frequently male (74% vs. 53%, p = 0.14), were on the average older (40 vs. 27, p less than .005) and more frequently had the histologic subtype of mixed cellularity (32% vs. 12%, p = .04). There was no difference in either survival or relapse-free survival between patients with Hodgkin's disease above the diaphragm and patients with disease below the diaphragm receiving similar treatment plans.", "PMID": 445373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7070", "title": "Carcinoma arising in eccrine spiradenoma.", "content": "Two patients had carcinoma arising in eccrine spiradenoma. In both patients, recent changes in a long-standing cutaneous nodule prompted excision, and microscopic examination disclosed carcinoma intimately associated with and apparently arising from typical benign eccrine spiradenoma. One patient had lymph node metastasis.", "contents": "Carcinoma arising in eccrine spiradenoma. Two patients had carcinoma arising in eccrine spiradenoma. In both patients, recent changes in a long-standing cutaneous nodule prompted excision, and microscopic examination disclosed carcinoma intimately associated with and apparently arising from typical benign eccrine spiradenoma. One patient had lymph node metastasis.", "PMID": 445374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7071", "title": "Growth rates of primary breast cancers.", "content": "The growth rates of breast cancers are a critical aspect of the natural history of the disease. Growth rates of 32 primary breast cancers were determined from serial mammographic views of tumor nucleus shadows in a population of 109 cancers. These cancers were found in a screening population of 10,120 women receiving over 30,000 mammograms over 3 years. Tumor volume doubling times ranged from 109 days to 944 days with mean doubling time of 325 days in 23 cases with 9 tumors showing no growth. Additional cancers surfaced that were growing too fast to be measured. These cancers were significantly more likely to metastasize but because of the small sample size the absolute percentage of tumors in that fast growing subset was not determinable but ranged between 17 and 77% of the 109 cancers.", "contents": "Growth rates of primary breast cancers. The growth rates of breast cancers are a critical aspect of the natural history of the disease. Growth rates of 32 primary breast cancers were determined from serial mammographic views of tumor nucleus shadows in a population of 109 cancers. These cancers were found in a screening population of 10,120 women receiving over 30,000 mammograms over 3 years. Tumor volume doubling times ranged from 109 days to 944 days with mean doubling time of 325 days in 23 cases with 9 tumors showing no growth. Additional cancers surfaced that were growing too fast to be measured. These cancers were significantly more likely to metastasize but because of the small sample size the absolute percentage of tumors in that fast growing subset was not determinable but ranged between 17 and 77% of the 109 cancers.", "PMID": 445375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7072", "title": "Factors associated with breast structure in breast cancer patients.", "content": "The breast duct patterns and radiographic density, or dysplasia, of 104 breast cancer patients in Hawaii were examined by mammography. The proportions of the four types of breast structure were analyzed for possible relation with age, menopausal state, height, weight, and race. Multiple regression analysis indicated that menopausal state appears to be more important than age per se for the general change in breast structure. Low body weight, but not race, is associated with prominent duct patterns and dysplasia.", "contents": "Factors associated with breast structure in breast cancer patients. The breast duct patterns and radiographic density, or dysplasia, of 104 breast cancer patients in Hawaii were examined by mammography. The proportions of the four types of breast structure were analyzed for possible relation with age, menopausal state, height, weight, and race. Multiple regression analysis indicated that menopausal state appears to be more important than age per se for the general change in breast structure. Low body weight, but not race, is associated with prominent duct patterns and dysplasia.", "PMID": 445376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7073", "title": "Carcinoid diathesis of the ileum.", "content": "An unusually large number (108) of carcinoids was discovered in the ileum of a 63-year-old male. The clustering and size distribution of tumor nodules suggests that the phenomenon reflects mucosal metastasis from a dominant parent tumor rather than multicentric neoplastic foci. A predilection for the antimesenteric mucosa was also observed and may be related to mucosal lymphatic spread of the carcinoid tumor.", "contents": "Carcinoid diathesis of the ileum. An unusually large number (108) of carcinoids was discovered in the ileum of a 63-year-old male. The clustering and size distribution of tumor nodules suggests that the phenomenon reflects mucosal metastasis from a dominant parent tumor rather than multicentric neoplastic foci. A predilection for the antimesenteric mucosa was also observed and may be related to mucosal lymphatic spread of the carcinoid tumor.", "PMID": 445377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7074", "title": "Pathogenesis of colonic polyps in multiple juvenile polyposis: report of a case associated with gastric polyps and carcinoma of the rectum.", "content": "The pathogenesis of juvenile polyps of the colon was studied in a patient with multiple juvenile polyposis who underwent proctocolectomy for rectal carcinoma and antrectomy for associated polyps of the stomach. Numerous polyps up to 3 cm in diameter were present predominantly in the cecum and rectum, and in addition there was an adenocarcinoma in the rectum. Microscopically there were five categories of lesions: 1) Hyperplastic epithelial foci and small hyperplastic polyps; 2) Typical Juvenile polyps; 3) Juvenile polyps with focal adenomatous epithelium; 4) Adenomas; and 5) and adenocarcinoma. The five categories could represent a pathogenetic sequence, beginning with epithelial hyperplasia, leading to small hyperplastic polyps which become inflamed and enlarge, forming juvenile polyps. Focal adenomatous areas which develop in some juvenile polyps might give rise to adenomas and in turn lead to carcinoma. Although juvenile polyps are generally not considered to be premalignant lesions, this case demonstrates that neoplastic changes may occur in juvenile polyps in certain individuals, and raises the possibility that these may on occasion give rise to carcinoma.", "contents": "Pathogenesis of colonic polyps in multiple juvenile polyposis: report of a case associated with gastric polyps and carcinoma of the rectum. The pathogenesis of juvenile polyps of the colon was studied in a patient with multiple juvenile polyposis who underwent proctocolectomy for rectal carcinoma and antrectomy for associated polyps of the stomach. Numerous polyps up to 3 cm in diameter were present predominantly in the cecum and rectum, and in addition there was an adenocarcinoma in the rectum. Microscopically there were five categories of lesions: 1) Hyperplastic epithelial foci and small hyperplastic polyps; 2) Typical Juvenile polyps; 3) Juvenile polyps with focal adenomatous epithelium; 4) Adenomas; and 5) and adenocarcinoma. The five categories could represent a pathogenetic sequence, beginning with epithelial hyperplasia, leading to small hyperplastic polyps which become inflamed and enlarge, forming juvenile polyps. Focal adenomatous areas which develop in some juvenile polyps might give rise to adenomas and in turn lead to carcinoma. Although juvenile polyps are generally not considered to be premalignant lesions, this case demonstrates that neoplastic changes may occur in juvenile polyps in certain individuals, and raises the possibility that these may on occasion give rise to carcinoma.", "PMID": 445378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7075", "title": "Hemangioendothelioma of bone with pulmonary metastases: a 25-year course: report of a case.", "content": "A unique case of hemangioendothelioma of bone arising in the right scapula of a 15-year-old boy is reported. The patient has been followed for over 25 years. After a symptom-free interval of 15 years, he developed a solitary pulmonary metastasis which was removed by left lower lobectomy. Five years later another metastasis was resected from his left upper lobe. During the subsequent five year period he has remained free of further evidence of metastases, attesting to the indolent course which may be taken occasionally by these malignant vascular tumors.", "contents": "Hemangioendothelioma of bone with pulmonary metastases: a 25-year course: report of a case. A unique case of hemangioendothelioma of bone arising in the right scapula of a 15-year-old boy is reported. The patient has been followed for over 25 years. After a symptom-free interval of 15 years, he developed a solitary pulmonary metastasis which was removed by left lower lobectomy. Five years later another metastasis was resected from his left upper lobe. During the subsequent five year period he has remained free of further evidence of metastases, attesting to the indolent course which may be taken occasionally by these malignant vascular tumors.", "PMID": 445379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7076", "title": "Correlations in mortality data involving cancers of the colorectum and esophagus.", "content": "Massachusetts vital event data for 1969--1972 were used to develop correlations between mortality rates for malignant diseases and other causes of death over the 34 health planning subdivisions of the state. A significant correlation was found between the mortality rates for cancer of the colon and rectum and ischemic heart disease. The association between the mortality figures for cancer of the esophagus and cancer of the lung and cirrhosis of the liver was also investigated. The objective was not only to learn more about the etiology of these conditions, but also to investigate the socioeconomic and other factors which are of importance in developing preventive programs. The need for neighboring states to use their data to confirm or refute findings is stressed.", "contents": "Correlations in mortality data involving cancers of the colorectum and esophagus. Massachusetts vital event data for 1969--1972 were used to develop correlations between mortality rates for malignant diseases and other causes of death over the 34 health planning subdivisions of the state. A significant correlation was found between the mortality rates for cancer of the colon and rectum and ischemic heart disease. The association between the mortality figures for cancer of the esophagus and cancer of the lung and cirrhosis of the liver was also investigated. The objective was not only to learn more about the etiology of these conditions, but also to investigate the socioeconomic and other factors which are of importance in developing preventive programs. The need for neighboring states to use their data to confirm or refute findings is stressed.", "PMID": 445380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7077", "title": "Vascular access for cancer chemotherapy.", "content": "Eleven bovine heterografts were utilized in the repetitive administration of chemotherapy in 10 patients with insufficient vascular access. Six grafts remained patent until the time of death and five grafts clotted from 71 to 1110 days postoperatively. Three patients are alive and well. All grafts were initially patent and no wound infections resulted. The bovine heterograft appears to be a useful adjunct for securing vascular access for patients requiring cancer chemotherapy.", "contents": "Vascular access for cancer chemotherapy. Eleven bovine heterografts were utilized in the repetitive administration of chemotherapy in 10 patients with insufficient vascular access. Six grafts remained patent until the time of death and five grafts clotted from 71 to 1110 days postoperatively. Three patients are alive and well. All grafts were initially patent and no wound infections resulted. The bovine heterograft appears to be a useful adjunct for securing vascular access for patients requiring cancer chemotherapy.", "PMID": 445381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7078", "title": "Endometrial carcinoma: causes of death and sites of treatment failure.", "content": "A retrospective analysis of causes of death in 398 patients with endometrial carcinoma and sites of treatment failure in 105 cases, all seen at the University of Michigan Medical Center between 1930 and 1971, is the subject of this report. Of 398 patients (337 with Stage I, 61 with Stage II disease), 183 (46%) died with endometrial carcinoma, and 122 (31%) died free of cancer. The cause of death in 35 cases (9%) was a known or unknown maligancy, and remained undetermined in 58 patients (14%). The exact site of treatment failure was identified in 105 cases. Forty-one (40%) failures were considered local, 32 (30%) geographic, and 32 (30%) both local and distant. The uterus and lungs were the most common sites of local failure and distant metastasis, respectively. Of patients who died free of cancer, 88% survived 5 or more years, and 32% survived 20 years or longer. It is concluded that 1) Hematogenous dissemination of endometrial carcinoma may occur early and with appreciable frequency. Thorough pretreatment investigative workup, preferably including chest laminograms and liver scans and consideration of adjuvant systemic therapy in advanced cases (i.e. those with positive nodes) is recommended. 2) The uterus, a common site of local failure, must be removed whenever feasible. 3) A realistically aggressive approach to the treatment of patients with endometrial cancer is justifiable despite their older age and coexistent medical problems.", "contents": "Endometrial carcinoma: causes of death and sites of treatment failure. A retrospective analysis of causes of death in 398 patients with endometrial carcinoma and sites of treatment failure in 105 cases, all seen at the University of Michigan Medical Center between 1930 and 1971, is the subject of this report. Of 398 patients (337 with Stage I, 61 with Stage II disease), 183 (46%) died with endometrial carcinoma, and 122 (31%) died free of cancer. The cause of death in 35 cases (9%) was a known or unknown maligancy, and remained undetermined in 58 patients (14%). The exact site of treatment failure was identified in 105 cases. Forty-one (40%) failures were considered local, 32 (30%) geographic, and 32 (30%) both local and distant. The uterus and lungs were the most common sites of local failure and distant metastasis, respectively. Of patients who died free of cancer, 88% survived 5 or more years, and 32% survived 20 years or longer. It is concluded that 1) Hematogenous dissemination of endometrial carcinoma may occur early and with appreciable frequency. Thorough pretreatment investigative workup, preferably including chest laminograms and liver scans and consideration of adjuvant systemic therapy in advanced cases (i.e. those with positive nodes) is recommended. 2) The uterus, a common site of local failure, must be removed whenever feasible. 3) A realistically aggressive approach to the treatment of patients with endometrial cancer is justifiable despite their older age and coexistent medical problems.", "PMID": 445382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7079", "title": "Dietary habits and cancer epidemiology.", "content": "Data indicate that most cancers appear to be related to environmental factors and that diet is one of these factors which appears to play a vital role. Epidemiologic evidence has increasingly implicated nutritional factors in the etiology of several forms of cancer in man. The effect of specific nutritional deficiencies, as well as unbalanced metabolism from dietary excesses, is discussed in relation to colon and breast cancer development. The possibility that excessive alcohol consumption among smokers, with its associated nutritional deficiencies, could act as a tumor promoter is discussed. It is timely to integrate the work of related specialties in cancer research, for cancer can no longer be viewed as a single disease with a single etiology.", "contents": "Dietary habits and cancer epidemiology. Data indicate that most cancers appear to be related to environmental factors and that diet is one of these factors which appears to play a vital role. Epidemiologic evidence has increasingly implicated nutritional factors in the etiology of several forms of cancer in man. The effect of specific nutritional deficiencies, as well as unbalanced metabolism from dietary excesses, is discussed in relation to colon and breast cancer development. The possibility that excessive alcohol consumption among smokers, with its associated nutritional deficiencies, could act as a tumor promoter is discussed. It is timely to integrate the work of related specialties in cancer research, for cancer can no longer be viewed as a single disease with a single etiology.", "PMID": 445383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7080", "title": "Alcohol as a co-factor in the etiology of cancer.", "content": "Alcohol and tobacco appear to act synergistically in the pathogenesis of epithelial cancers of the oropharynx (excluding lip), larynx, and esophagus. For the subsites within the upper aerodigestive tract, over 10,000 deaths in United States men during 1978 may be attributed to tobacco and alcohol consumption. The cancer sites for which tobacco and alcohol are major determinants occur with greater frequency in men, blacks, lower socioeconomic groups, and with increasing urbanization and increasing age (35--70 years). Because primary hepatocellular carcinoma occurs more commonly in patients with cirrhosis, chronic alcohol abuse is an important risk mechanism for carcinoma of the liver parenchyma. Although experimental animal studies have failed to demonstrate whether ethanol can independently initiate tumorigenesis, various alternative or associated biochemical and immunological mechanisms of action have been proposed.", "contents": "Alcohol as a co-factor in the etiology of cancer. Alcohol and tobacco appear to act synergistically in the pathogenesis of epithelial cancers of the oropharynx (excluding lip), larynx, and esophagus. For the subsites within the upper aerodigestive tract, over 10,000 deaths in United States men during 1978 may be attributed to tobacco and alcohol consumption. The cancer sites for which tobacco and alcohol are major determinants occur with greater frequency in men, blacks, lower socioeconomic groups, and with increasing urbanization and increasing age (35--70 years). Because primary hepatocellular carcinoma occurs more commonly in patients with cirrhosis, chronic alcohol abuse is an important risk mechanism for carcinoma of the liver parenchyma. Although experimental animal studies have failed to demonstrate whether ethanol can independently initiate tumorigenesis, various alternative or associated biochemical and immunological mechanisms of action have been proposed.", "PMID": 445384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7081", "title": "Optimal nutrition.", "content": "An optimal diet cannot yet be defined. If we knew what an optimal diet was, additional research in nutrition would not be necessary. There is abundant evidence, however, that the usual American diet is not optimal and adequate reason to recommend modification. Current dietary recommendations were developed to prevent the occurrence of nutritional deficiency disease in the 1930's and 1940's. They have been largely successful. They were made, however, before any knowledge was available about the effects of diet upon chronic disease which now represent the primary health problems of the United States. Large amounts of data are available indicating the kids of recommendations which should be made to control hypercholesterolemia--a primary risk factor of coronary artery disease. These kinds of data together with less information upon diet and cancer, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, etc. lead to sensible and consistent dietary recommendations to moderate the dietary practices of most Americans.", "contents": "Optimal nutrition. An optimal diet cannot yet be defined. If we knew what an optimal diet was, additional research in nutrition would not be necessary. There is abundant evidence, however, that the usual American diet is not optimal and adequate reason to recommend modification. Current dietary recommendations were developed to prevent the occurrence of nutritional deficiency disease in the 1930's and 1940's. They have been largely successful. They were made, however, before any knowledge was available about the effects of diet upon chronic disease which now represent the primary health problems of the United States. Large amounts of data are available indicating the kids of recommendations which should be made to control hypercholesterolemia--a primary risk factor of coronary artery disease. These kinds of data together with less information upon diet and cancer, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, etc. lead to sensible and consistent dietary recommendations to moderate the dietary practices of most Americans.", "PMID": 445385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7082", "title": "Nutritional assessment and patient outcome during oncological therapy.", "content": "Protein--calorie malnutrition is the single most common secondary diagnosis in patients with cancer, and is a direct consequence of the anorexia of malignancy and altered host metabolism induced by tumor. One hundred and sixty-one cancer patients were nutritionally assessed prior to receiving oncological therapy (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy). Eighty-four percent (27/32) of the patients who were initially anergic became immunocompetent with nutritional therapy and had a mortality rate of 11% as compared to 100% mortality in the 5 patients who remained anergic throughout their hospital stay. Thirty-nine percent (14/36) of the patients initially immune competent became anergic and had a concomitant mortality rate of 50% vs. a mortality rate of only 14% in the 22 patients whose immune function was preserved (p less than 0.05). Those patients who were discharged at the completion of their therapy also exhibited a higher initial serum albumin (3.5 +/- 0.1 vs. 3.1 +/- 0.1 g/dl, p less than 0.001) and serum transferrin (149 +/- 7 vs. 125 +/- 7 mg/dl, p less than 0.05). A significant increase (p less than 0.025) occurred in serum transferrin (delta 23 +/- 9 mg/dl) after 3 or more weeks of nutritional support. The detection and treatment of protein--calorie malnutrition prior to or in conjunction with oncological therapy has been associated with a decrease in mortality rate.", "contents": "Nutritional assessment and patient outcome during oncological therapy. Protein--calorie malnutrition is the single most common secondary diagnosis in patients with cancer, and is a direct consequence of the anorexia of malignancy and altered host metabolism induced by tumor. One hundred and sixty-one cancer patients were nutritionally assessed prior to receiving oncological therapy (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy). Eighty-four percent (27/32) of the patients who were initially anergic became immunocompetent with nutritional therapy and had a mortality rate of 11% as compared to 100% mortality in the 5 patients who remained anergic throughout their hospital stay. Thirty-nine percent (14/36) of the patients initially immune competent became anergic and had a concomitant mortality rate of 50% vs. a mortality rate of only 14% in the 22 patients whose immune function was preserved (p less than 0.05). Those patients who were discharged at the completion of their therapy also exhibited a higher initial serum albumin (3.5 +/- 0.1 vs. 3.1 +/- 0.1 g/dl, p less than 0.001) and serum transferrin (149 +/- 7 vs. 125 +/- 7 mg/dl, p less than 0.05). A significant increase (p less than 0.025) occurred in serum transferrin (delta 23 +/- 9 mg/dl) after 3 or more weeks of nutritional support. The detection and treatment of protein--calorie malnutrition prior to or in conjunction with oncological therapy has been associated with a decrease in mortality rate.", "PMID": 445386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7083", "title": "Cachexia of malignancy: potential role of insulin in nutritional management.", "content": "Patients manifesting the syndrome of cachexia of malignancy exhibit an abnormal diabetic glucose tolerance. In our patients this has been correlated with a marked resistance to administered insulin, while insulin receptors on monocytes are normal. Lipolysis remains responsive to the effects of insulin. The oxidation of FFA, as a substrate for metabolism, has been reported to be increased, and the utilization of glucose as a metabolic fuel is reduced. Increased Cori cycle activity has been demonstrated, which produces an enhanced gluconeogenesis from lactate and amino acids; there is an expenditure of 6 ATP for the synthesis of each mole of glucose. An attempt to interrupt the Cori cycle in man, using hydrazine sulfate to inhibit the enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, has not resulted in reproducible clinical benefit. However, successful treatment of the underlying tumor may produce a total reversal of the cachexia syndrome, suggesting that neoplasms have the potential to elaborate an, as yet, unidentified metabolic toxin. The use of insulin to counteract the reported abnormalities should be examined as a possible supportive measure in the total nutritional management of the cancer patient.", "contents": "Cachexia of malignancy: potential role of insulin in nutritional management. Patients manifesting the syndrome of cachexia of malignancy exhibit an abnormal diabetic glucose tolerance. In our patients this has been correlated with a marked resistance to administered insulin, while insulin receptors on monocytes are normal. Lipolysis remains responsive to the effects of insulin. The oxidation of FFA, as a substrate for metabolism, has been reported to be increased, and the utilization of glucose as a metabolic fuel is reduced. Increased Cori cycle activity has been demonstrated, which produces an enhanced gluconeogenesis from lactate and amino acids; there is an expenditure of 6 ATP for the synthesis of each mole of glucose. An attempt to interrupt the Cori cycle in man, using hydrazine sulfate to inhibit the enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, has not resulted in reproducible clinical benefit. However, successful treatment of the underlying tumor may produce a total reversal of the cachexia syndrome, suggesting that neoplasms have the potential to elaborate an, as yet, unidentified metabolic toxin. The use of insulin to counteract the reported abnormalities should be examined as a possible supportive measure in the total nutritional management of the cancer patient.", "PMID": 445387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7084", "title": "Dietetic assessment of ambulatory cancer patients: with special attention to problems of patients suffering from head--neck cancers undergoing radiation therapy.", "content": "The prime objective of nutritional surveillance of cancer patients is to set up screening criteria for those who are likely to be at risk of nutrition problems and to further assess those so identified. Interventions to improve nutritional status or comfort are called for. The single most useful item with respect to screening is careful weight measurement at every visit. Subjective reports of appetite and food intake, 24-hour recalls of dietary intake, and therapy being undergone by the patient are also useful. Assessment involves obtaining the 24-hour recall data and in some cases keeping food records, and determining the patients' food likes and dislikes. Taken together, dietary, biochemical, clinical, anthropometry, and patient history data permit us to achieve greater certainty as to the problem. Usually energy intakes are problematic, but other nutrition difficulties may also be present. Intervention with respect to diet may involve therapeutic diets, special nutrition advice, or general advice. Food assistance, help with food management, and general health education may also be necessary. Constant surveillance consisting of short encounters and follow-up are mandatory. Examples of these principles as they apply to head--neck cancers will be presented.", "contents": "Dietetic assessment of ambulatory cancer patients: with special attention to problems of patients suffering from head--neck cancers undergoing radiation therapy. The prime objective of nutritional surveillance of cancer patients is to set up screening criteria for those who are likely to be at risk of nutrition problems and to further assess those so identified. Interventions to improve nutritional status or comfort are called for. The single most useful item with respect to screening is careful weight measurement at every visit. Subjective reports of appetite and food intake, 24-hour recalls of dietary intake, and therapy being undergone by the patient are also useful. Assessment involves obtaining the 24-hour recall data and in some cases keeping food records, and determining the patients' food likes and dislikes. Taken together, dietary, biochemical, clinical, anthropometry, and patient history data permit us to achieve greater certainty as to the problem. Usually energy intakes are problematic, but other nutrition difficulties may also be present. Intervention with respect to diet may involve therapeutic diets, special nutrition advice, or general advice. Food assistance, help with food management, and general health education may also be necessary. Constant surveillance consisting of short encounters and follow-up are mandatory. Examples of these principles as they apply to head--neck cancers will be presented.", "PMID": 445388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7085", "title": "Resting host and tumor perfusion as determinants of tumor vascular responses to norepinephrine.", "content": "Blood flow determinations and arteriograms were obtained in rat (Walker carcinoma) and rabbit (V2 carcinoma) liver tumors at rest and after norepinephrine administration. Resting tumor blood flow exceeded resting hepatic flow in both models, and both tumors responded with vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow. In tumors and the surrounding normal host tissue, the greater the perfusion prior to drug administration, the greater is the response (decrease in perfusion) to the vasoconstrictor. Although tumor perfusion decreased after vasoconstrictor, post-norepinephrine angiograms revealed an improved diagnostic image because of the enlarged but unresponsive tumor feeder vessels, persistent tumor blush, and simultaneous vasoconstriction in the normal liver. In these models, improved tumor visualization resulted even though a decrease in tumor blood flow had occurred. The angiographic image is related therefore to the lack of vasoconstriction in the tumor feeder vessel, which has, however, a decreased blood flow and the correspondingly greater volume of normally constricting hepatic arteries which results in a marked decrease in the background of vessels upon which the tumor image is superimposed.", "contents": "Resting host and tumor perfusion as determinants of tumor vascular responses to norepinephrine. Blood flow determinations and arteriograms were obtained in rat (Walker carcinoma) and rabbit (V2 carcinoma) liver tumors at rest and after norepinephrine administration. Resting tumor blood flow exceeded resting hepatic flow in both models, and both tumors responded with vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow. In tumors and the surrounding normal host tissue, the greater the perfusion prior to drug administration, the greater is the response (decrease in perfusion) to the vasoconstrictor. Although tumor perfusion decreased after vasoconstrictor, post-norepinephrine angiograms revealed an improved diagnostic image because of the enlarged but unresponsive tumor feeder vessels, persistent tumor blush, and simultaneous vasoconstriction in the normal liver. In these models, improved tumor visualization resulted even though a decrease in tumor blood flow had occurred. The angiographic image is related therefore to the lack of vasoconstriction in the tumor feeder vessel, which has, however, a decreased blood flow and the correspondingly greater volume of normally constricting hepatic arteries which results in a marked decrease in the background of vessels upon which the tumor image is superimposed.", "PMID": 445389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7086", "title": "Spontaneous regressive epitheliomas in the Japanese newt, Cynops pyrrhogaster.", "content": "Spontaneous tumors in urodele amphibians have been considered uncommon, and this resistance has sometimes been associated with the natural regenerative capacity of tissues in such species. This report describes spontaneous, nonpigmented, benign epitheliomas which were found in 44 of 1586 (2.8%) adult newts, Cynops pyrrhogaster, captured in central Japan. Both sexes were affected equally, usually with single tumors occurring at any epidermal site. Under laboratory conditions, these large tumors rapidly regressed or disappeared. Lesions were histologically noninvasive, hyperplastic epidermal reactions accompanied by loss of basal, subdermal melanocytes. Ultrastructurally, enlargement of intercellular spaces between tumor cells, increased pigment granules and membrane-bound cytoplasmic aggregates within the spaces, swollen rough endoplasmic reticula, degenerating pigment granules, and altered corneal cells were noted. Virus-like particles were observed in one tumor cell. Prelminary attempts failed to demonstrate transmissibility of the tumor, and no new cases arose under laboratory conditions. The cause of these tumors in the Japanese newt remains unknown, and it is suggested that if a viral agent is involved then other environmental cofactors (diet, temperature, or water constituents) are required for its expression.", "contents": "Spontaneous regressive epitheliomas in the Japanese newt, Cynops pyrrhogaster. Spontaneous tumors in urodele amphibians have been considered uncommon, and this resistance has sometimes been associated with the natural regenerative capacity of tissues in such species. This report describes spontaneous, nonpigmented, benign epitheliomas which were found in 44 of 1586 (2.8%) adult newts, Cynops pyrrhogaster, captured in central Japan. Both sexes were affected equally, usually with single tumors occurring at any epidermal site. Under laboratory conditions, these large tumors rapidly regressed or disappeared. Lesions were histologically noninvasive, hyperplastic epidermal reactions accompanied by loss of basal, subdermal melanocytes. Ultrastructurally, enlargement of intercellular spaces between tumor cells, increased pigment granules and membrane-bound cytoplasmic aggregates within the spaces, swollen rough endoplasmic reticula, degenerating pigment granules, and altered corneal cells were noted. Virus-like particles were observed in one tumor cell. Prelminary attempts failed to demonstrate transmissibility of the tumor, and no new cases arose under laboratory conditions. The cause of these tumors in the Japanese newt remains unknown, and it is suggested that if a viral agent is involved then other environmental cofactors (diet, temperature, or water constituents) are required for its expression.", "PMID": 445390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7087", "title": "Effects of hyperthermia (41.5 degrees) on Chinese hamster ovary cells analyzed in motisis.", "content": "The mitotic cells from an asynchronous population of Chinese hamster ovary cells exposed to 41.5 degrees for 7 hr were examined by light and electron microscopy to determine if there were any morphological abnormalities related to cell death or lengthening of metaphase induced by hyperthermia. All components of the mitotic apparatus were formed during exposure to heat, and the mitotic apparatus was functional as demonstrated by eventual cell division. However, heat caused the nuclear envelope to reform precociously around the chromosomes except in the region of the kinetochores, and the nuclear envelope remained associated with the chromatids during segregation. The precocious reformation of the nuclear envelope may be responsible for the lengthening of metaphase. Cells undergoing mitosis during the heat treatment possessed large evaginations of the plasma membrane, and the ubiquitous cortical microfilaments were absent in the region of these evaginations. Possibly related to the membrane damage were osmotic changes resulting in swollen mitochondria observed in heated cells entering mitosis. Since hyperthermic damage to the plasma membrane-microfilament complex was not observed in interphase cells or in cells completing division but was morphologically expressed during mitosis, the thermal lability of the plasma membrane must increase as the cells enter mitosis.", "contents": "Effects of hyperthermia (41.5 degrees) on Chinese hamster ovary cells analyzed in motisis. The mitotic cells from an asynchronous population of Chinese hamster ovary cells exposed to 41.5 degrees for 7 hr were examined by light and electron microscopy to determine if there were any morphological abnormalities related to cell death or lengthening of metaphase induced by hyperthermia. All components of the mitotic apparatus were formed during exposure to heat, and the mitotic apparatus was functional as demonstrated by eventual cell division. However, heat caused the nuclear envelope to reform precociously around the chromosomes except in the region of the kinetochores, and the nuclear envelope remained associated with the chromatids during segregation. The precocious reformation of the nuclear envelope may be responsible for the lengthening of metaphase. Cells undergoing mitosis during the heat treatment possessed large evaginations of the plasma membrane, and the ubiquitous cortical microfilaments were absent in the region of these evaginations. Possibly related to the membrane damage were osmotic changes resulting in swollen mitochondria observed in heated cells entering mitosis. Since hyperthermic damage to the plasma membrane-microfilament complex was not observed in interphase cells or in cells completing division but was morphologically expressed during mitosis, the thermal lability of the plasma membrane must increase as the cells enter mitosis.", "PMID": 445391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7088", "title": "Glycosyltransferase and glycosidase activities in ovarian cancer patients.", "content": "In order to elucidate the mechanism of appearance of abnormal glycoproteins in cancer, activities of glycoprotein glycosyltransferases and glycosidases were determined in the homogenates prepared from normal ovaries and ovarian epithelial adenocarcinoma. Significantly high activities (more than normal mean + 2 S.D.) of these enzymes were found as follows: galactosyltransferase and sialytransferase in 100%; fucosyltransferase 1 (exogenous acceptor, fetuin minus sialic acid and galactose) in 86%; fucosyltransferase 2 (fetuin minus sialic acid, acceptor) in 45%; N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 1 (ovalbumin acceptor) in 53%; N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 2 (ribonuclease A as acceptor) in 10% of the samples analyzed. Among the glycosidases, substantially elevated activities above normal controls were found as follows: N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in 85%; N-acetyl-beta-D-galactosaminidase in 63%; N-acetyl-beta-D-galactosidase in 50%, and those of alpha-L-fucosidase in 35% of the tumors. In serum of these cancer patients, only levels of galactosyltransferase were consistently elevated compared to controls. Increases in serum levels for other transferases were as follows: fucosyl-1, 10%; fucosyl-2, 60%; sialyl-, 20%; N-acetylglucosaminyl-1, 90%; N-acetylglycosaminyl-2, in 80% of the serum samples from ovarian carcinoma patients. Galactosyltransferase thus appears to be an excellent marker for ovarian carcinoma.", "contents": "Glycosyltransferase and glycosidase activities in ovarian cancer patients. In order to elucidate the mechanism of appearance of abnormal glycoproteins in cancer, activities of glycoprotein glycosyltransferases and glycosidases were determined in the homogenates prepared from normal ovaries and ovarian epithelial adenocarcinoma. Significantly high activities (more than normal mean + 2 S.D.) of these enzymes were found as follows: galactosyltransferase and sialytransferase in 100%; fucosyltransferase 1 (exogenous acceptor, fetuin minus sialic acid and galactose) in 86%; fucosyltransferase 2 (fetuin minus sialic acid, acceptor) in 45%; N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 1 (ovalbumin acceptor) in 53%; N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 2 (ribonuclease A as acceptor) in 10% of the samples analyzed. Among the glycosidases, substantially elevated activities above normal controls were found as follows: N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in 85%; N-acetyl-beta-D-galactosaminidase in 63%; N-acetyl-beta-D-galactosidase in 50%, and those of alpha-L-fucosidase in 35% of the tumors. In serum of these cancer patients, only levels of galactosyltransferase were consistently elevated compared to controls. Increases in serum levels for other transferases were as follows: fucosyl-1, 10%; fucosyl-2, 60%; sialyl-, 20%; N-acetylglucosaminyl-1, 90%; N-acetylglycosaminyl-2, in 80% of the serum samples from ovarian carcinoma patients. Galactosyltransferase thus appears to be an excellent marker for ovarian carcinoma.", "PMID": 445394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7089", "title": "Gluconeogenesis from alanine in patients with progressive malignant disease.", "content": "We have studied by tracer technique the conversion of the carbon skeleton of alanine to glucose in patients with progressive malignant disease. These data have been compared to similar studies done in patients with chronic undernutrition from other causes. The results show increased conversion of alanine to glucose in the overnight fasting state as compared to the control group. Whereas the percentage increases are comparable to those found with pyruvate-glucose cycling in such subjects, the total amount of carbon conversion is considerably less (alanine carbon, 5.6 mmol/hr, versus pyruvate carbon, 39 mmol/hr). Exogenous glucose resulted in good suppression of alanine-to-glucose conversion as it does in normal subjects. It did, however, result in increased glucose-to-alanine conversion, increased alanine levels, and increased flux of alanine from the circulation. Although these latter data may not have specificity for the patient with advanced cancer, a strong dependence for carbohydrate and protein metabolism is suggested. We conclude that uncontrolled gluconeogenesis from alanine is probably not significant in terms of energy expenditure in the patient with uncontrolled cancer.", "contents": "Gluconeogenesis from alanine in patients with progressive malignant disease. We have studied by tracer technique the conversion of the carbon skeleton of alanine to glucose in patients with progressive malignant disease. These data have been compared to similar studies done in patients with chronic undernutrition from other causes. The results show increased conversion of alanine to glucose in the overnight fasting state as compared to the control group. Whereas the percentage increases are comparable to those found with pyruvate-glucose cycling in such subjects, the total amount of carbon conversion is considerably less (alanine carbon, 5.6 mmol/hr, versus pyruvate carbon, 39 mmol/hr). Exogenous glucose resulted in good suppression of alanine-to-glucose conversion as it does in normal subjects. It did, however, result in increased glucose-to-alanine conversion, increased alanine levels, and increased flux of alanine from the circulation. Although these latter data may not have specificity for the patient with advanced cancer, a strong dependence for carbohydrate and protein metabolism is suggested. We conclude that uncontrolled gluconeogenesis from alanine is probably not significant in terms of energy expenditure in the patient with uncontrolled cancer.", "PMID": 445395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7090", "title": "Leukocyte migration inhibition in vitro in bladder carcinoma.", "content": "The leukocyte migration inhibition response in vitro of peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder, other genitourinary diseases, and normal controls was studied. The agarose droplet migration inhibition method was used to determine the cell-mediated immune reactivity of bladder tumor patients to antigens derived from allogeneic bladder tumor cell lines by hypertonic potassium chloride extraction. Sixty-nine bladder tumor patients were tested 131 times and included 68 positive and 63 negative results. A positive assay was shown to correlate strongly with the presence of tumor at the time of testing (p less than 0.001). Five of 24 patients with other genitourinary diseases had positive inhibition assays, but none of the 26 normal controls were positive. These results suggest that this in vitro assay method may prove valuable in monitoring bladder tumor patients for completeness of initial tumor resection and for clinical recurrence as well as for further studies of the tumor-specific immune response in this disease.", "contents": "Leukocyte migration inhibition in vitro in bladder carcinoma. The leukocyte migration inhibition response in vitro of peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder, other genitourinary diseases, and normal controls was studied. The agarose droplet migration inhibition method was used to determine the cell-mediated immune reactivity of bladder tumor patients to antigens derived from allogeneic bladder tumor cell lines by hypertonic potassium chloride extraction. Sixty-nine bladder tumor patients were tested 131 times and included 68 positive and 63 negative results. A positive assay was shown to correlate strongly with the presence of tumor at the time of testing (p less than 0.001). Five of 24 patients with other genitourinary diseases had positive inhibition assays, but none of the 26 normal controls were positive. These results suggest that this in vitro assay method may prove valuable in monitoring bladder tumor patients for completeness of initial tumor resection and for clinical recurrence as well as for further studies of the tumor-specific immune response in this disease.", "PMID": 445398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7091", "title": "Transfer of tumor cells between cell aggregates as a model for adhesive changes in metastasis.", "content": "A model for cell detachment which may influence metastasis in vivo is described involving the transfer of hamster melanoma cells from aggregates of those tumor cells to hamster fibroblast aggregates. The aggregates were made by the spontaneous association of cultured cells. Tumor and fibroblast aggregates were then incubated together but separated by a nylon net that allowed only single cells to pass. Melanoma cells rapidly separated from the tumor aggregates, crossed the net, and attached to the fibroblast aggregates, but fibroblast cells did not. This model of metastasis reflects the postulated role of cell-to-cell adhesion in metastasis and will allow further study of the role of cell attachments in metastasis.", "contents": "Transfer of tumor cells between cell aggregates as a model for adhesive changes in metastasis. A model for cell detachment which may influence metastasis in vivo is described involving the transfer of hamster melanoma cells from aggregates of those tumor cells to hamster fibroblast aggregates. The aggregates were made by the spontaneous association of cultured cells. Tumor and fibroblast aggregates were then incubated together but separated by a nylon net that allowed only single cells to pass. Melanoma cells rapidly separated from the tumor aggregates, crossed the net, and attached to the fibroblast aggregates, but fibroblast cells did not. This model of metastasis reflects the postulated role of cell-to-cell adhesion in metastasis and will allow further study of the role of cell attachments in metastasis.", "PMID": 445400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7092", "title": "Alterations in platelet surface sialytransferase activity and platelet aggregation in a group of cancer patients with a high incidence of thrombosis.", "content": "Platelet aggregation, platelet surface sialic acid, and platelet surface sialytransferase activity were studied in a group of 12 cancer patients with a high incidence of thrombosis. These patients demonstrated accelerated coagulation, increased Factor VIII antigen and restocetin cofactor, and enhanced adenosine 5'-diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation. Platelet exogenous sialytransferase activity was increased in cancer patients (117.6 +/- 14 pmol/10(9) platelets) as compared to controls (59.0 +/- 4.3 pmol/10(9) platelets, p less than 0.01). Platelet exogenous sialytransferase activity and platelet aggregation were inhibited by aspirin. Thrombosis and bleeding have complicated the clinical course of half of these patients. This platelet membrane analysis provides additional data which may be related to current observations of increased levels of plasma sialytransferase activity and serum sialic acid in cancer patients.", "contents": "Alterations in platelet surface sialytransferase activity and platelet aggregation in a group of cancer patients with a high incidence of thrombosis. Platelet aggregation, platelet surface sialic acid, and platelet surface sialytransferase activity were studied in a group of 12 cancer patients with a high incidence of thrombosis. These patients demonstrated accelerated coagulation, increased Factor VIII antigen and restocetin cofactor, and enhanced adenosine 5'-diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation. Platelet exogenous sialytransferase activity was increased in cancer patients (117.6 +/- 14 pmol/10(9) platelets) as compared to controls (59.0 +/- 4.3 pmol/10(9) platelets, p less than 0.01). Platelet exogenous sialytransferase activity and platelet aggregation were inhibited by aspirin. Thrombosis and bleeding have complicated the clinical course of half of these patients. This platelet membrane analysis provides additional data which may be related to current observations of increased levels of plasma sialytransferase activity and serum sialic acid in cancer patients.", "PMID": 445401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7093", "title": "Potentiation of anticancer agent cytotoxicity against sensitive and resistant AKR leukemia by amphotericin B1.", "content": "Amphotericin B was able to enhance the effects of actinomycin D (Act-D), adriamycin, and vincristine against AKR leukemia. AKR leukemia lines of increasing resistance to Act-D were obtained by passage in syngeneic mice treated with Act-D. The cells selected for Act-D resistance also eventually became cross-resistant to vincristine and Adriamycin, but resistance to these agents developed at a slower rate. Amphotericin B enhanced the effects of all these agents against the resistant cells, although the degree of enhancement varied among these antitumor agents and decreased as drug resistance increased in the late-passage leukemia lines.", "contents": "Potentiation of anticancer agent cytotoxicity against sensitive and resistant AKR leukemia by amphotericin B1. Amphotericin B was able to enhance the effects of actinomycin D (Act-D), adriamycin, and vincristine against AKR leukemia. AKR leukemia lines of increasing resistance to Act-D were obtained by passage in syngeneic mice treated with Act-D. The cells selected for Act-D resistance also eventually became cross-resistant to vincristine and Adriamycin, but resistance to these agents developed at a slower rate. Amphotericin B enhanced the effects of all these agents against the resistant cells, although the degree of enhancement varied among these antitumor agents and decreased as drug resistance increased in the late-passage leukemia lines.", "PMID": 445402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7094", "title": "Metabolism and excretion of benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide by the isolated perfused rat liver.", "content": "Benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide was metabolized in the isolated perfused rat liver by epoxide hydrase and glutathione S-transferases to the corresponding dihydrodiol and to thioether conjugates (derivatives of glutathione), respectively. Epoxide hydrase was more important relative to the glutathione S-transferases in the biotransformation of this oxide by the intact organ than was indicated by the results from earlier studies with subcellular fractions. The dihydrodiol was rapidly released into the circulation or conjugated with glucuronic acid; sulfuric acid esters were not found. All conjugated metabolites were rapidly excreted in the bile but some were also released into the circulation. The enzymatic systems responsible for the metabolism and excretion of benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide remained viable in the isolated perfused liver for at least 60 min. The toxicological significance of the release of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites from the liver into the vascular circulation and the possible significance of UDP:glucuronyltransferase activity in preventing chemically induced carcinogenesis are discussed.", "contents": "Metabolism and excretion of benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide by the isolated perfused rat liver. Benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide was metabolized in the isolated perfused rat liver by epoxide hydrase and glutathione S-transferases to the corresponding dihydrodiol and to thioether conjugates (derivatives of glutathione), respectively. Epoxide hydrase was more important relative to the glutathione S-transferases in the biotransformation of this oxide by the intact organ than was indicated by the results from earlier studies with subcellular fractions. The dihydrodiol was rapidly released into the circulation or conjugated with glucuronic acid; sulfuric acid esters were not found. All conjugated metabolites were rapidly excreted in the bile but some were also released into the circulation. The enzymatic systems responsible for the metabolism and excretion of benzo(a)pyrene 4,5-oxide remained viable in the isolated perfused liver for at least 60 min. The toxicological significance of the release of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites from the liver into the vascular circulation and the possible significance of UDP:glucuronyltransferase activity in preventing chemically induced carcinogenesis are discussed.", "PMID": 445404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7095", "title": "Induction of the DNA repair enzyme uracil-DNA glycosylase in stimulated human lymphocytes.", "content": "The capacity of human cells to modulate the synthesis of DNA repair enzymes has been investigated by measuring the induction of the uracil-DNA glycosylase during lymphocyte stimulation. Treatment of peripheral lymphocytes with phytohemagglutinin increased glycosylase activity 10-fold. Glycosylase stimulation was coordinate with the activation of DNA synthesis and DNA polymerase activity. Two chromatographically distinct species of the glycosylase have been resolved; only one species is induced during phytohemagglutinin stimulation. The effect of actinomycin D and cycloheximide on glycosylase induction was determined. Treatment with either inhibitor at 96 hr after phytohemagglutinin addition (maximal induction) decreased glycosylase activity after an appreciable lag period. This suggested that induction of the uracil-DNA glycosylase requires transcription and translation although the enzyme may be quite stable once induced.", "contents": "Induction of the DNA repair enzyme uracil-DNA glycosylase in stimulated human lymphocytes. The capacity of human cells to modulate the synthesis of DNA repair enzymes has been investigated by measuring the induction of the uracil-DNA glycosylase during lymphocyte stimulation. Treatment of peripheral lymphocytes with phytohemagglutinin increased glycosylase activity 10-fold. Glycosylase stimulation was coordinate with the activation of DNA synthesis and DNA polymerase activity. Two chromatographically distinct species of the glycosylase have been resolved; only one species is induced during phytohemagglutinin stimulation. The effect of actinomycin D and cycloheximide on glycosylase induction was determined. Treatment with either inhibitor at 96 hr after phytohemagglutinin addition (maximal induction) decreased glycosylase activity after an appreciable lag period. This suggested that induction of the uracil-DNA glycosylase requires transcription and translation although the enzyme may be quite stable once induced.", "PMID": 445405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7096", "title": "Regional lymph node reactivity in explanted bladder cancer of mice as measured by flow cytometry.", "content": "The reactivity of lymphocytes in lymph nodes draining the site of a transplantable experimental bladder tumor (MBT2 in C3H/HeJ mice) has been measured in a multiparameter flow cytometry system. Acridine orange was used as a nucleic acid probe. This dye intercalates in helical DNA, emitting green (530 nm) fluorescence upon exposure to blue light; it stacks to single-stranded RNA, emitting red (640 nm) fluorescence. The relative magnitude of the increase of lymphocyte DNA and RNA has been evaluated simultaneously in tumor-draining nodes, in nondraining nodes of the same animal, and in untreated control animals. Stimulation of the regional node lymphocytes could be observed after 20 days but not after 10 days. It was uniformly high at 35 days. The transcriptive response (increased proportion of lymphocytes with high RNA) was more pronounced than the proliferative (increased proportion of lymphocytes with more than diploid DNA). The histological changes in the stimulated nodes resembled closely those described by others in human tumor-draining nodes. The described method has the advantage of being simple, rapid, and able to measure a representative part of the whole-cell population.", "contents": "Regional lymph node reactivity in explanted bladder cancer of mice as measured by flow cytometry. The reactivity of lymphocytes in lymph nodes draining the site of a transplantable experimental bladder tumor (MBT2 in C3H/HeJ mice) has been measured in a multiparameter flow cytometry system. Acridine orange was used as a nucleic acid probe. This dye intercalates in helical DNA, emitting green (530 nm) fluorescence upon exposure to blue light; it stacks to single-stranded RNA, emitting red (640 nm) fluorescence. The relative magnitude of the increase of lymphocyte DNA and RNA has been evaluated simultaneously in tumor-draining nodes, in nondraining nodes of the same animal, and in untreated control animals. Stimulation of the regional node lymphocytes could be observed after 20 days but not after 10 days. It was uniformly high at 35 days. The transcriptive response (increased proportion of lymphocytes with high RNA) was more pronounced than the proliferative (increased proportion of lymphocytes with more than diploid DNA). The histological changes in the stimulated nodes resembled closely those described by others in human tumor-draining nodes. The described method has the advantage of being simple, rapid, and able to measure a representative part of the whole-cell population.", "PMID": 445409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7097", "title": "Effect of hepatocarcinogens on the adenine purine nucleotide cycle during the initiation phase of carcinogenesis.", "content": "Activities of the adenine purine nucleotide cycle enzymes, i.e., adenylosuccinate (SAMP) synthetase, SAMP lyase, and adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse, were determined in hepatic tissue of rats fed and/or given injections of 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene, 4'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene, thioacetamide, ethionine, or 2-acetylaminofluorene. SAMP lyase activity showed an early increase in all regimens containing hepatocarcinogens. Adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse showed increases with 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene and thioacetamide but not with ethionine or 2-acetylaminofluorene. SAMP synthetase either was nonresponsive or else showed inhibition to the carcinogens. Increase in SAMP lyase activity was noted as early as 48 to 72 hr following i.p. injections of these carcinogens. The response of SAMP lyase was not duplicated by analogs of carcinogens such as 4'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene or methionine. These data imply interaction of active carcinogens with SAMP lyase and to some extent adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse or to some mechanism responsible for their synthesis and/or release. This interaction may be a significant component of the initiation phase of carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Effect of hepatocarcinogens on the adenine purine nucleotide cycle during the initiation phase of carcinogenesis. Activities of the adenine purine nucleotide cycle enzymes, i.e., adenylosuccinate (SAMP) synthetase, SAMP lyase, and adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse, were determined in hepatic tissue of rats fed and/or given injections of 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene, 4'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene, thioacetamide, ethionine, or 2-acetylaminofluorene. SAMP lyase activity showed an early increase in all regimens containing hepatocarcinogens. Adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse showed increases with 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene and thioacetamide but not with ethionine or 2-acetylaminofluorene. SAMP synthetase either was nonresponsive or else showed inhibition to the carcinogens. Increase in SAMP lyase activity was noted as early as 48 to 72 hr following i.p. injections of these carcinogens. The response of SAMP lyase was not duplicated by analogs of carcinogens such as 4'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene or methionine. These data imply interaction of active carcinogens with SAMP lyase and to some extent adenosine 5'-monophosphate deaminse or to some mechanism responsible for their synthesis and/or release. This interaction may be a significant component of the initiation phase of carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 445410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7098", "title": "Resistance to Ehrlich ascites tumor in a strain of dystrophic mice.", "content": "Ehrlich ascites tumor grows in almost any mouse host. We have found a strain of dystrophic mice to be strongly resistant to Ehrlich ascites tumor. Mice of the dystrophic strain survived injection of Ehrlich Ascites tumor cells that had just been passaged through either dystrophic mice or C57BL X DBA/2 F1, (hereafter known as BD2F1) mice. However, most of the dystrophic mice died when they were given injections of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells that had just been passaged through Swiss white mice. All Swiss white and BD2F1 mice died when they were inoculated with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, regardless of the type of mouse through which the Ehrlich ascites tumor cells had just been passaged. In some dystrophic mice, the tumor grew to a palpabale size and then disappeared. This provided the opportunity to passage the tumor from one dystrophic mouse to another and thereby to demonstrate resistance in the dystrophic mice to tumor that had grown previously in dystrophic mice. There was no detectable difference in the rate of tumor growth in either Swiss white or BD2F1 mice.", "contents": "Resistance to Ehrlich ascites tumor in a strain of dystrophic mice. Ehrlich ascites tumor grows in almost any mouse host. We have found a strain of dystrophic mice to be strongly resistant to Ehrlich ascites tumor. Mice of the dystrophic strain survived injection of Ehrlich Ascites tumor cells that had just been passaged through either dystrophic mice or C57BL X DBA/2 F1, (hereafter known as BD2F1) mice. However, most of the dystrophic mice died when they were given injections of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells that had just been passaged through Swiss white mice. All Swiss white and BD2F1 mice died when they were inoculated with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, regardless of the type of mouse through which the Ehrlich ascites tumor cells had just been passaged. In some dystrophic mice, the tumor grew to a palpabale size and then disappeared. This provided the opportunity to passage the tumor from one dystrophic mouse to another and thereby to demonstrate resistance in the dystrophic mice to tumor that had grown previously in dystrophic mice. There was no detectable difference in the rate of tumor growth in either Swiss white or BD2F1 mice.", "PMID": 445411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7099", "title": "Ozonation of mutagenic and carcinogenic alkylating agents, pesticides, aflatoxin B1, and benzidine in water.", "content": "The effect of ozonation on the mutagenicity of selected chemicals in water was determined. The use of the Salmonella-microsome assay for mutagensis allowed kinetic studies to be performed on the ozonation of all chemicals tested. The results indicate that the mutagenicity of certain pesticides, including captan and Dexon, was inactivated by short periods of ozonation. The mutagenicity of certain alkylating agents including bis(2-chloroethyl)amine and sodium azide was rapidly inactivated by ozonation while other alkylating agents such as beta-propiolactone, propanesultone, and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine were unaffected by treatment with ozone. The mutagenicity of aflatoxin B1 was rapidly inactivated by treatment with ozone. Three chemicals were shown to be converted to direct mutagens by ozone treatment. Under certain conditions, dimethylhydrazine could be converted to a mutagen that was stable for 3 weeks. A similar chemical, 2-hydroxyethylhydrazine, was converted to an unstable mutagen that was inactive after 24 hr at room temperature. When benzidine was treated with ozone, there was a transient increase in mutagenicity which was lost after longer treatment with ozone.", "contents": "Ozonation of mutagenic and carcinogenic alkylating agents, pesticides, aflatoxin B1, and benzidine in water. The effect of ozonation on the mutagenicity of selected chemicals in water was determined. The use of the Salmonella-microsome assay for mutagensis allowed kinetic studies to be performed on the ozonation of all chemicals tested. The results indicate that the mutagenicity of certain pesticides, including captan and Dexon, was inactivated by short periods of ozonation. The mutagenicity of certain alkylating agents including bis(2-chloroethyl)amine and sodium azide was rapidly inactivated by ozonation while other alkylating agents such as beta-propiolactone, propanesultone, and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine were unaffected by treatment with ozone. The mutagenicity of aflatoxin B1 was rapidly inactivated by treatment with ozone. Three chemicals were shown to be converted to direct mutagens by ozone treatment. Under certain conditions, dimethylhydrazine could be converted to a mutagen that was stable for 3 weeks. A similar chemical, 2-hydroxyethylhydrazine, was converted to an unstable mutagen that was inactive after 24 hr at room temperature. When benzidine was treated with ozone, there was a transient increase in mutagenicity which was lost after longer treatment with ozone.", "PMID": 445412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7100", "title": "Tumor eradication and cell survival after localized hyperthermia induced by ultrasound.", "content": "This study was designed to test the effect of localized ultrasound-induced hyperthermia on experimental mouse tumors. Transducers operating at 5.17 MHz with relatively uniform output over an area 1 cm in diameter were used to heat EMT6 and KHJJ tumors in 407 BALB/cKa mice. Treatments were at 43, 43.5, 44, and 44.5 degrees. At each temperature level, treatments were applied for 15, 30, or 45 min. Temperature profiles measured in tumors treated by ultrasound hyperthermia indicated that heating was not completely uniform. In general, both rate of tumor eradication and growth delay increased as temperature and/or time of exposure increased. The EMT6 and KHJJ tumors had comparable rates of eradication for the same temperatures and times of exposure. Cell survival studies indicated that there was considerable variation in cell killing between individual EMT6 tumors exposed to the same hyperthermic dose. In addition, cell death appeared to be progressive over a period 2 to 48 hr after hyperthermic exposure. The mechanism of this delayed cell death is not known but may be important in eradicating the tumors. Ultrasound was a relatively safe and effective method of heating tumor volumes up to 44 degrees, and hyperthermia alone resulted in high rates of tumor eradication in the EMT6 and KHJJ systems.", "contents": "Tumor eradication and cell survival after localized hyperthermia induced by ultrasound. This study was designed to test the effect of localized ultrasound-induced hyperthermia on experimental mouse tumors. Transducers operating at 5.17 MHz with relatively uniform output over an area 1 cm in diameter were used to heat EMT6 and KHJJ tumors in 407 BALB/cKa mice. Treatments were at 43, 43.5, 44, and 44.5 degrees. At each temperature level, treatments were applied for 15, 30, or 45 min. Temperature profiles measured in tumors treated by ultrasound hyperthermia indicated that heating was not completely uniform. In general, both rate of tumor eradication and growth delay increased as temperature and/or time of exposure increased. The EMT6 and KHJJ tumors had comparable rates of eradication for the same temperatures and times of exposure. Cell survival studies indicated that there was considerable variation in cell killing between individual EMT6 tumors exposed to the same hyperthermic dose. In addition, cell death appeared to be progressive over a period 2 to 48 hr after hyperthermic exposure. The mechanism of this delayed cell death is not known but may be important in eradicating the tumors. Ultrasound was a relatively safe and effective method of heating tumor volumes up to 44 degrees, and hyperthermia alone resulted in high rates of tumor eradication in the EMT6 and KHJJ systems.", "PMID": 445414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7101", "title": "Cardiovascular lesions and various tumors found in rats given T-2 toxin, a trichothecene metabolite of Fusarium.", "content": "White rats given intragastrically 3alpha-hydroxy-4beta,15-diacetoxy-8alpha-(3-methylbutyryloxy)-12,13-epoxy-tricholthec-9-en (T-2 toxin), a trichothecene metabolite of several Fusarium species, developed various acute and chronic, topical and systemic lesions. The rats that survived 12 to 27.5 months after the first of three to eight doses of T-2 toxin (0.2 to 4 mg/kg body weight) alone or in conjunction with nicotinamide given i.p. (200 to 250 mg/kg body weight) developed cardiovascular lesions of various degrees of severity and/or tumors, benign and malignant, of the digestive tract and of the brain. T-2 toxin is known occasionally to contaminate cereals and other agricultural products, harvested or stored under damp and cold conditions. T-2 toxin was responsible for an often fatal disease in humans, known in the U.S.S.R. as \"alimentary toxic aleukia,\" and also for outbreaks of hemorrhagic mycotoxicoses in livestock in various countries. T-2 toxin and other Fusarium mycotoxins may be involved in the etiology of cardiovascular lesions and of certain tumors considered as \"spontaneous\" in animals and humans.", "contents": "Cardiovascular lesions and various tumors found in rats given T-2 toxin, a trichothecene metabolite of Fusarium. White rats given intragastrically 3alpha-hydroxy-4beta,15-diacetoxy-8alpha-(3-methylbutyryloxy)-12,13-epoxy-tricholthec-9-en (T-2 toxin), a trichothecene metabolite of several Fusarium species, developed various acute and chronic, topical and systemic lesions. The rats that survived 12 to 27.5 months after the first of three to eight doses of T-2 toxin (0.2 to 4 mg/kg body weight) alone or in conjunction with nicotinamide given i.p. (200 to 250 mg/kg body weight) developed cardiovascular lesions of various degrees of severity and/or tumors, benign and malignant, of the digestive tract and of the brain. T-2 toxin is known occasionally to contaminate cereals and other agricultural products, harvested or stored under damp and cold conditions. T-2 toxin was responsible for an often fatal disease in humans, known in the U.S.S.R. as \"alimentary toxic aleukia,\" and also for outbreaks of hemorrhagic mycotoxicoses in livestock in various countries. T-2 toxin and other Fusarium mycotoxins may be involved in the etiology of cardiovascular lesions and of certain tumors considered as \"spontaneous\" in animals and humans.", "PMID": 445416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7102", "title": "Inhibition of differentiation of cultured mouse myeloid leukemia cells by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and counteraction of the inhibition by prostaglandin E1.", "content": "Mouse myeloid leukemia cells (M1) were induced to differentiate into mature macrophages and granulocytes by glucocorticoids or a protein inducer in ascitic fluid from tumor-bearing rats. Addition of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents to M1 cells in suspension cultures inhibited the induction of differentiation by glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) or the protein inducer. The inhibition was unrelated to cytotoxicity and was reversible. The nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent indomethacin inhibited dexamethasone-induced differentiation only when added before the time of commitment of the cells to differentiation. The indomethacin-mediated inhibition was counteracted by prostaglandins E1 or E2 but not by prostaglandins F1alpha or F2alpha. Prostaglandin E stimulated phagocytosis induced by a suboptimal concentration of dexamethasone, but prostaglandin F did not. Moreover, lysozyme activity, which is a typical biochemical marker of macrophages, was induced in M1 cells by prostaglandin E alone, as well as by inducers of differentiation. These results suggest that prostaglandin E may be important in the induction of differentiation of myelod leukemia cells.", "contents": "Inhibition of differentiation of cultured mouse myeloid leukemia cells by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and counteraction of the inhibition by prostaglandin E1. Mouse myeloid leukemia cells (M1) were induced to differentiate into mature macrophages and granulocytes by glucocorticoids or a protein inducer in ascitic fluid from tumor-bearing rats. Addition of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents to M1 cells in suspension cultures inhibited the induction of differentiation by glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) or the protein inducer. The inhibition was unrelated to cytotoxicity and was reversible. The nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent indomethacin inhibited dexamethasone-induced differentiation only when added before the time of commitment of the cells to differentiation. The indomethacin-mediated inhibition was counteracted by prostaglandins E1 or E2 but not by prostaglandins F1alpha or F2alpha. Prostaglandin E stimulated phagocytosis induced by a suboptimal concentration of dexamethasone, but prostaglandin F did not. Moreover, lysozyme activity, which is a typical biochemical marker of macrophages, was induced in M1 cells by prostaglandin E alone, as well as by inducers of differentiation. These results suggest that prostaglandin E may be important in the induction of differentiation of myelod leukemia cells.", "PMID": 445417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7103", "title": "Active efflux of daunorubicin and adriamycin in sensitive and resistant sublines of P388 leukemia.", "content": "Significantly decreased uptake and retention of daunorubicin (DAU) and Adriamycin (ADR) have been reported in sublines of P388 leukemia resistant to these anthracyclines. We studied the effects of inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation on uptake and retention of DAU and ADR in order to characterize the transport process for these anthracyclines and to clarify further the alteration in resistant cells. In glucose-free medium, uptake of DAU and ADR was accelerated by metabolic inhibitors to a greater extent in resistant cells than in sensitive cells. Under these conditions, drug uptake was similar in sensitive and resistant cells. When glucose was added to the incubation medium in the presence of 2,4-dinitrophenol, efflux of DAU from both sensitive and resistant cells was observed. Net efflux of ADR was also observed with the resistant cells, whereas glucose markedly inhibited 2,4-dinitrophenol-stimulated uptake of ADR by the sensitive cells. Furthermore, in sensitive and resistant cells preloaded with ADR and DAU, efflux of the drugs was inhibited by the addition of 2,4-dinitrophenol. These results suggest that there is an active outward transport mechanism for anthracyclines in P388 leukemia cells and that enhanced activity of this efflux process renders cells highly resistant to the cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of ADR and DAU.", "contents": "Active efflux of daunorubicin and adriamycin in sensitive and resistant sublines of P388 leukemia. Significantly decreased uptake and retention of daunorubicin (DAU) and Adriamycin (ADR) have been reported in sublines of P388 leukemia resistant to these anthracyclines. We studied the effects of inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation on uptake and retention of DAU and ADR in order to characterize the transport process for these anthracyclines and to clarify further the alteration in resistant cells. In glucose-free medium, uptake of DAU and ADR was accelerated by metabolic inhibitors to a greater extent in resistant cells than in sensitive cells. Under these conditions, drug uptake was similar in sensitive and resistant cells. When glucose was added to the incubation medium in the presence of 2,4-dinitrophenol, efflux of DAU from both sensitive and resistant cells was observed. Net efflux of ADR was also observed with the resistant cells, whereas glucose markedly inhibited 2,4-dinitrophenol-stimulated uptake of ADR by the sensitive cells. Furthermore, in sensitive and resistant cells preloaded with ADR and DAU, efflux of the drugs was inhibited by the addition of 2,4-dinitrophenol. These results suggest that there is an active outward transport mechanism for anthracyclines in P388 leukemia cells and that enhanced activity of this efflux process renders cells highly resistant to the cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of ADR and DAU.", "PMID": 445418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7104", "title": "Adequacies and inadequacies in assessing murine toxicity data with antineoplastic agents.", "content": "Previous retrospective analyses have suggested a very positive correlation in toxic doses of antineoplastic agents between mice and humans. Additional toxicological information has now been accumulated and reveals a noticeable variability in the existing data base. Nevertheless, it is likely that mouse toxicological studies will become a principal determinant for estimating initial doses to be used in humans. Recognition of the factors responsible for differences in determinations of toxic dose levels in mice will enhance the proper utilization of this approach.", "contents": "Adequacies and inadequacies in assessing murine toxicity data with antineoplastic agents. Previous retrospective analyses have suggested a very positive correlation in toxic doses of antineoplastic agents between mice and humans. Additional toxicological information has now been accumulated and reveals a noticeable variability in the existing data base. Nevertheless, it is likely that mouse toxicological studies will become a principal determinant for estimating initial doses to be used in humans. Recognition of the factors responsible for differences in determinations of toxic dose levels in mice will enhance the proper utilization of this approach.", "PMID": 445419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7105", "title": "Drug sequence-dependent toxicity and small bowel mucosal injury in mice treated with low doses of 3-deazauridine and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine.", "content": "The toxicity to mice of combinations of 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine and 3-deazauridine was investigated. The drugs were administered daily i.p. on Days 1 to 5, each drug at 10 mg/kg body weight; these dosages are small fractions of the dosages at which 10% of the treated animals died when either drug was administered alone on the foregoing schedule. This drug combination was severely toxic when 3-deazauridine was administered 2 to 8 hr prior to 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine; most mice treated in this way died within 3 days of the last treatment. Histological examination showed that severe damage to the small bowel mucosa resulted from treatment with the drugs in the above, lethal sequence. In contrast, treatments with this drug combination at the same dosages were tolerated when the two agents were administered simultaneously or when 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine preceded 3-deazauridine. Under the latter conditions, small bowel mucosal injury was much less severe. Female mice were more sensitive to the toxic treatment regimen than were male mice and were protected against the latter when either the 3-deazauridine or the 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine component was preceded by treatment with nitrobenzylthioinosine (100 mg/kg), a potent inhibitor of nucleoside transport.", "contents": "Drug sequence-dependent toxicity and small bowel mucosal injury in mice treated with low doses of 3-deazauridine and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine. The toxicity to mice of combinations of 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine and 3-deazauridine was investigated. The drugs were administered daily i.p. on Days 1 to 5, each drug at 10 mg/kg body weight; these dosages are small fractions of the dosages at which 10% of the treated animals died when either drug was administered alone on the foregoing schedule. This drug combination was severely toxic when 3-deazauridine was administered 2 to 8 hr prior to 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine; most mice treated in this way died within 3 days of the last treatment. Histological examination showed that severe damage to the small bowel mucosa resulted from treatment with the drugs in the above, lethal sequence. In contrast, treatments with this drug combination at the same dosages were tolerated when the two agents were administered simultaneously or when 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine preceded 3-deazauridine. Under the latter conditions, small bowel mucosal injury was much less severe. Female mice were more sensitive to the toxic treatment regimen than were male mice and were protected against the latter when either the 3-deazauridine or the 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine component was preceded by treatment with nitrobenzylthioinosine (100 mg/kg), a potent inhibitor of nucleoside transport.", "PMID": 445420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7106", "title": "Hyperthermic treatment of human tumors heterotransplanted in nude mice.", "content": "A new model is presented for the study of the effects of supranormal temperatures on human tumors in vivo. Human tumors heterotransplanted serially in nude mice were heated in vivo by means of local radio-frequency heating. A lung carcinoma, a breast carcinoma, a colon carcinoma, and a malignant melanoma were studied. The tumors were transplanted s.c. in the inguinal area or under the kidney capsule of adult nude mice. The s.c. tumors were heated for 30 min. Temperatures of 43--44 degrees C were reached in the surrounding normal tissues, whereas in the center of the tumor temperatures of 46--49 degrees C were recorded. In 11 of 16 randomized pairs of mice, the growth of the tumor treated by hyperthermia was inhibited by 75% or more as compared with the growth of the untreated tumor control. No mortality and only temporary damage to skin and muscle were observed. The kidney tumors were also treated for 30 min, but it was possible to reach only 40 degrees C in the abdomen. Seventy-five % mortality was observed. Of seven randomized pairs evaluated, five exhibited a reduction of growth varying from 37 to 63%9 The model proposed appears to be a workable and promising one, especially for s.c. growing tumors.", "contents": "Hyperthermic treatment of human tumors heterotransplanted in nude mice. A new model is presented for the study of the effects of supranormal temperatures on human tumors in vivo. Human tumors heterotransplanted serially in nude mice were heated in vivo by means of local radio-frequency heating. A lung carcinoma, a breast carcinoma, a colon carcinoma, and a malignant melanoma were studied. The tumors were transplanted s.c. in the inguinal area or under the kidney capsule of adult nude mice. The s.c. tumors were heated for 30 min. Temperatures of 43--44 degrees C were reached in the surrounding normal tissues, whereas in the center of the tumor temperatures of 46--49 degrees C were recorded. In 11 of 16 randomized pairs of mice, the growth of the tumor treated by hyperthermia was inhibited by 75% or more as compared with the growth of the untreated tumor control. No mortality and only temporary damage to skin and muscle were observed. The kidney tumors were also treated for 30 min, but it was possible to reach only 40 degrees C in the abdomen. Seventy-five % mortality was observed. Of seven randomized pairs evaluated, five exhibited a reduction of growth varying from 37 to 63%9 The model proposed appears to be a workable and promising one, especially for s.c. growing tumors.", "PMID": 445423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7107", "title": "Normal tissue and solid tumor effects of hyperthermia in animal models and clinical trials.", "content": "Localized hyperthermia therapy by high-energy radio-frequency waves was evaluated in malignant and adjacent normal tissue of 30 patients with 10 types of cancer. Hyperthermia was delivered to superficial and deep visceral cancers in awake patients who had refractory disease. Histological and clinical responses were recorded serially. Toxicity tests in dogs, sheep, and pigs showed that progressive necrosis of normal and cancer tissue occurred at temperatures above 45 degrees C (113 degrees F). However, as normal tissues approached this temperature, intrinsic heat dissipation occurred (possibly due to augmented blood flow) so that temperatures below 45 degrees C could be maintained, whereas most solid tumors did not have this adaptive capacity and could be heated to 50 degrees C (122 degrees F) with virtually no injury to normal organs, s.c. tissue, or skin. To date, 69 treatments have been administered to 36 tumors in the 30 patients. Selective heating was observed in both primary and metastatic tumors located in surface tissues and internal organs. Response appeared to be related to tumor size in that differential heating was possible more often in the larger lesions. In tumors successfully heated, moderate to marked necrosis occurred. Radio-frequency hyperthermia appears to be a safe and potentially useful form of therapy for selected cancer patients. While other cancer treatments are more effective for small tumors, hyperthermia may be uniquely beneficial against larger lesions.", "contents": "Normal tissue and solid tumor effects of hyperthermia in animal models and clinical trials. Localized hyperthermia therapy by high-energy radio-frequency waves was evaluated in malignant and adjacent normal tissue of 30 patients with 10 types of cancer. Hyperthermia was delivered to superficial and deep visceral cancers in awake patients who had refractory disease. Histological and clinical responses were recorded serially. Toxicity tests in dogs, sheep, and pigs showed that progressive necrosis of normal and cancer tissue occurred at temperatures above 45 degrees C (113 degrees F). However, as normal tissues approached this temperature, intrinsic heat dissipation occurred (possibly due to augmented blood flow) so that temperatures below 45 degrees C could be maintained, whereas most solid tumors did not have this adaptive capacity and could be heated to 50 degrees C (122 degrees F) with virtually no injury to normal organs, s.c. tissue, or skin. To date, 69 treatments have been administered to 36 tumors in the 30 patients. Selective heating was observed in both primary and metastatic tumors located in surface tissues and internal organs. Response appeared to be related to tumor size in that differential heating was possible more often in the larger lesions. In tumors successfully heated, moderate to marked necrosis occurred. Radio-frequency hyperthermia appears to be a safe and potentially useful form of therapy for selected cancer patients. While other cancer treatments are more effective for small tumors, hyperthermia may be uniquely beneficial against larger lesions.", "PMID": 445424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7108", "title": "Results of eleven years' experience with heated perfusion for melanoma of the extremities.", "content": "Eleven years have elapsed since we first added heat to regional perfusion for treatment of melanoma of the extremities. This report describes briefly our laboratory findings and our technique of hyperthermic perfusion and brings up to date the survival figures for the 165 patients (185 perfusions) which were originally reported in 1975 (Stehlin et al., Surg. Gynecol. Obstet., 122: 3--14, 1966). A dramatic increase in the survival rate is documented for those patients with recurrent melanoma confined to the extremities.", "contents": "Results of eleven years' experience with heated perfusion for melanoma of the extremities. Eleven years have elapsed since we first added heat to regional perfusion for treatment of melanoma of the extremities. This report describes briefly our laboratory findings and our technique of hyperthermic perfusion and brings up to date the survival figures for the 165 patients (185 perfusions) which were originally reported in 1975 (Stehlin et al., Surg. Gynecol. Obstet., 122: 3--14, 1966). A dramatic increase in the survival rate is documented for those patients with recurrent melanoma confined to the extremities.", "PMID": 445425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7109", "title": "Clinical and biological studies of localized hyperthermia.", "content": "In 1975, we initiated a clinical study using multiple cutaneous lesions as the model system to determine whether hyperthermia alone or as an adjuvant to radiation evokes better tumor control than that achieved with radiation alone. The clinical observations of the heating patterns observed in tumor tissues and the adjacent normal tissues indicate that there was selective heating of superficial cancers in more than 80% of the cases. Using fractionated heat alone, there was a transitory tumor response in 10 of 19 patients. When combined with radiation and heat, the complete response achieved was 78% (42 of 54). Investigations in animal tumors indicate that the importance of the site of growth is related to local tumor control by heat alone. Other studies designed to investigate whether localized hyperthermia alone or with radiation increased tumor metastases were negative.", "contents": "Clinical and biological studies of localized hyperthermia. In 1975, we initiated a clinical study using multiple cutaneous lesions as the model system to determine whether hyperthermia alone or as an adjuvant to radiation evokes better tumor control than that achieved with radiation alone. The clinical observations of the heating patterns observed in tumor tissues and the adjacent normal tissues indicate that there was selective heating of superficial cancers in more than 80% of the cases. Using fractionated heat alone, there was a transitory tumor response in 10 of 19 patients. When combined with radiation and heat, the complete response achieved was 78% (42 of 54). Investigations in animal tumors indicate that the importance of the site of growth is related to local tumor control by heat alone. Other studies designed to investigate whether localized hyperthermia alone or with radiation increased tumor metastases were negative.", "PMID": 445426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7110", "title": "Thermal dosimetry and clinical requirements.", "content": "Major problems in clinical hyperthermia include (a) inhomogeneity of heat distribution in designated tumor volumes due to tissue characteristics and differential blood flow, (b) limitations of heat delivery and control systems for adequate depth penetration and adjustments of temperatures, and (c) the lack of capability of accurate temperature measurements, especially in the area of noninvasive techniques for deep-seated tumors. Examples were given to illustrate the clinical requirements of hyperthermia of superficial, intermediate, and deep-seated tumors.", "contents": "Thermal dosimetry and clinical requirements. Major problems in clinical hyperthermia include (a) inhomogeneity of heat distribution in designated tumor volumes due to tissue characteristics and differential blood flow, (b) limitations of heat delivery and control systems for adequate depth penetration and adjustments of temperatures, and (c) the lack of capability of accurate temperature measurements, especially in the area of noninvasive techniques for deep-seated tumors. Examples were given to illustrate the clinical requirements of hyperthermia of superficial, intermediate, and deep-seated tumors.", "PMID": 445427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7111", "title": "Regional blood flow in human tumors.", "content": "Blood flow in 97 human tumor nodules, of which 31 were lymphomas, 31 were anaplastic carcinomas, and 35 were differentiated cancers, was measured using the 133Xe clearance method. The lymphomas showed statistically higher blood flow [34.6 +/- 21 (S.D.) ml/min/100 g] than did the anaplastic carcinomas (15.4 +/- 11.4 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.001) and the differentiated cancers (22.8 +/- 14.9 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.05). The size of the tumors did not correlate with the blood flow. In the group of differentiated cancers, the blood flow in nodules in areas of earlier irradiation was lower (9.0 +/- 6.3 ml/min/100 g) than in nodules in intact regions (25.0 +/- 14.5 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.05). Nodules in cicatricial areas after surgical operation had lower blood flow than did nodules in the intact areas, but the difference is not statistically significant. It is obvious that most human tumors have a considerably lower blood flow than what one would expect to find in the surrounding normal tissue.", "contents": "Regional blood flow in human tumors. Blood flow in 97 human tumor nodules, of which 31 were lymphomas, 31 were anaplastic carcinomas, and 35 were differentiated cancers, was measured using the 133Xe clearance method. The lymphomas showed statistically higher blood flow [34.6 +/- 21 (S.D.) ml/min/100 g] than did the anaplastic carcinomas (15.4 +/- 11.4 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.001) and the differentiated cancers (22.8 +/- 14.9 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.05). The size of the tumors did not correlate with the blood flow. In the group of differentiated cancers, the blood flow in nodules in areas of earlier irradiation was lower (9.0 +/- 6.3 ml/min/100 g) than in nodules in intact regions (25.0 +/- 14.5 ml/min/100 g; p less than 0.05). Nodules in cicatricial areas after surgical operation had lower blood flow than did nodules in the intact areas, but the difference is not statistically significant. It is obvious that most human tumors have a considerably lower blood flow than what one would expect to find in the surrounding normal tissue.", "PMID": 445428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7112", "title": "Aspects of thermoregulatory physiology pertinent to hyperthermic treatment of cancer.", "content": "Local hyperthermia is relatively safe, while whole-body hyperthermia is potentially dangerous because the therapeutically effective elevation of body temperature is close to the tolerable limit to hyperthermia beyond which permanent damage may be caused. Here consideration is given to the most reliable index of body temperature during hyperthermia and the techniques for raising body temperature. The possibility of effecting local brain cooling and thereby increasing the margin of safety during whole-body hyperthermia is also considered.", "contents": "Aspects of thermoregulatory physiology pertinent to hyperthermic treatment of cancer. Local hyperthermia is relatively safe, while whole-body hyperthermia is potentially dangerous because the therapeutically effective elevation of body temperature is close to the tolerable limit to hyperthermia beyond which permanent damage may be caused. Here consideration is given to the most reliable index of body temperature during hyperthermia and the techniques for raising body temperature. The possibility of effecting local brain cooling and thereby increasing the margin of safety during whole-body hyperthermia is also considered.", "PMID": 445429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7113", "title": "Thermal dosimetry and temperature measurements.", "content": "A crucial ingredient of any hyperthermia procedure is the accurate measurement of achieved temperature. In this paper, we present some accuracy and resolution suggestions and address the problem of temperature measurements when electromagnetic energy is used as the mode of heating. In such cases, conventional metallic thermometers can cause severe errors due to reradiated fields, high internal healing, and electronic interference. To avoid these problems, several groups have developed either high-resistance lead thermometers or optical-fiber probes using a variety of sensors, including birefringent and semiconductor crystals. A new noninvasive approach uses ultrasound-computed tomography and relies upon the change in the speed of sound versus temperature to achieve maps of internal tissue temperature.", "contents": "Thermal dosimetry and temperature measurements. A crucial ingredient of any hyperthermia procedure is the accurate measurement of achieved temperature. In this paper, we present some accuracy and resolution suggestions and address the problem of temperature measurements when electromagnetic energy is used as the mode of heating. In such cases, conventional metallic thermometers can cause severe errors due to reradiated fields, high internal healing, and electronic interference. To avoid these problems, several groups have developed either high-resistance lead thermometers or optical-fiber probes using a variety of sensors, including birefringent and semiconductor crystals. A new noninvasive approach uses ultrasound-computed tomography and relies upon the change in the speed of sound versus temperature to achieve maps of internal tissue temperature.", "PMID": 445430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7114", "title": "Recommendations for future research in hyperthermia at the molecular, cellular, and animal levels.", "content": "Recommendations are made for hyperthermia research to be carried out at the molecular, cellular, and animal levels. Effects of heat alone should be distinguished from effects of heat combined with radiation or chemotherapy. Factors to be considered include tumor cell environment, treatment sequencing, thermal tolerance, cell kinetics, any possible nonthermal effects, and therapeutic gain.", "contents": "Recommendations for future research in hyperthermia at the molecular, cellular, and animal levels. Recommendations are made for hyperthermia research to be carried out at the molecular, cellular, and animal levels. Effects of heat alone should be distinguished from effects of heat combined with radiation or chemotherapy. Factors to be considered include tumor cell environment, treatment sequencing, thermal tolerance, cell kinetics, any possible nonthermal effects, and therapeutic gain.", "PMID": 445431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7115", "title": "Increased survival of rats bearing Morris hepatoma 7800 after induction of hypothyroidism.", "content": "The survival of Buffalo rats brearing Morris Hepatoma 7800 was increased significantly (23 to 31%) after induction of hypothyroidism by propylthiouracil (PTU) (0.1% in Purina rat chow) or 131I. The concentration of PTU used was in the optimal range as 0.03% PTU was less effective than 0.1%, while 0.4% PTU appeared to be toxic. Exogenous thyroxine (8 microgram/kg body weight) reversed the effects of PTU and actually shortened survival. Because food consumption and body weights of hypothyroid rats were decreased, the survival of pair-fed controls was studied and found to be the same as in untreated controls. We conclude that the hypothyroid state increases the survival of rats bearing Morris Hepatoma 7800. We have not yet been able to define any anatomical or biochemical parameters which may be responsible for this effect.", "contents": "Increased survival of rats bearing Morris hepatoma 7800 after induction of hypothyroidism. The survival of Buffalo rats brearing Morris Hepatoma 7800 was increased significantly (23 to 31%) after induction of hypothyroidism by propylthiouracil (PTU) (0.1% in Purina rat chow) or 131I. The concentration of PTU used was in the optimal range as 0.03% PTU was less effective than 0.1%, while 0.4% PTU appeared to be toxic. Exogenous thyroxine (8 microgram/kg body weight) reversed the effects of PTU and actually shortened survival. Because food consumption and body weights of hypothyroid rats were decreased, the survival of pair-fed controls was studied and found to be the same as in untreated controls. We conclude that the hypothyroid state increases the survival of rats bearing Morris Hepatoma 7800. We have not yet been able to define any anatomical or biochemical parameters which may be responsible for this effect.", "PMID": 445436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7116", "title": "Persistent binding of 3-methylcholanthrene to mouse lung DNA and its correlation with susceptibility to pulmonary neoplasia.", "content": "A/J, C3H/HeJ, DBA/2J, and C57BL/6J mice have different susceptibilities to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-induced pulmonary neoplasia, whereas the livers from these animals are uniformly resistant to the carcinogenic actions of these substances. After i.v. injection of [3H]-3-methylcholanthrene, radiolabel was detected in the DNA of both lung and liver of all these strains. The DNA was digested to deoxyribonucleosides and chromatographed on Sephadex LH-20. The amounts of nucleoside-bound adducts detected varied markedly with the different tissues and strains. These adducts were undetectable in liver DNA by 28 days. Although all lung preparations showed some reduction in adducts by 28 days, the amounts in A/J lung were always highest; this correlated with its high susceptibility to neoplastic transformation. In all preparations, radioactivity eluted from Sephadex LH-20 with the column void volume or with underivatized nucleosides. Tissue, but not strain differences were observed in these chromatographic profiles. The predominance of these early-eluting peaks in liver, rather than lung, suggests that they may represent noncarcinogenic lesions. This radiolabeled material remains uncharacterized, but some possibilities are discussed.", "contents": "Persistent binding of 3-methylcholanthrene to mouse lung DNA and its correlation with susceptibility to pulmonary neoplasia. A/J, C3H/HeJ, DBA/2J, and C57BL/6J mice have different susceptibilities to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-induced pulmonary neoplasia, whereas the livers from these animals are uniformly resistant to the carcinogenic actions of these substances. After i.v. injection of [3H]-3-methylcholanthrene, radiolabel was detected in the DNA of both lung and liver of all these strains. The DNA was digested to deoxyribonucleosides and chromatographed on Sephadex LH-20. The amounts of nucleoside-bound adducts detected varied markedly with the different tissues and strains. These adducts were undetectable in liver DNA by 28 days. Although all lung preparations showed some reduction in adducts by 28 days, the amounts in A/J lung were always highest; this correlated with its high susceptibility to neoplastic transformation. In all preparations, radioactivity eluted from Sephadex LH-20 with the column void volume or with underivatized nucleosides. Tissue, but not strain differences were observed in these chromatographic profiles. The predominance of these early-eluting peaks in liver, rather than lung, suggests that they may represent noncarcinogenic lesions. This radiolabeled material remains uncharacterized, but some possibilities are discussed.", "PMID": 445439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7117", "title": "Direct inhibition of growth and antagonism of insulin action by glucocorticoids in human breast cancer cells in culture.", "content": "We have examined the interaction of dexamethasone with the ZR75-1 human breast cancer cell line to determine if glucocorticoids might directly inhibit growth of breast cancer cells. Growth of these cells in serum-free medium was stimulated significantly by physiological concentrations of insulin (0.1 to 1.0 nM). Pharmacological concentrations of dexamethasone (10 nM) reduced cell number below that found in controls and nearly abolished the effect of insulin after several days in culture. Thymidine and uridine, but not leucine, incorporation into macromolecules or acetate incorporation into fatty acids were similarly inhibited by dexamethasone in the presence of absence of insulin. Dexamethasone did not inhibit insulin effects by altering insulin receptor affinity or concentration, as determined by Scatchard analyses of insulin binding. Net thymidine uptake into the trichloroacetic acid-soluble fraction of the cell was stimulated by insulin and inhibited by dexamethasone also inhibited thymidine kinase activity multiple potential sites of glucocorticoid action that directly oppose the effects of insulin. They also suggest that glucocorticoids have a direct inhibitory effect on proliferation of human breast cancer cells, which may help explain breast tumor regression following pharmacological glucocorticoid therapy.", "contents": "Direct inhibition of growth and antagonism of insulin action by glucocorticoids in human breast cancer cells in culture. We have examined the interaction of dexamethasone with the ZR75-1 human breast cancer cell line to determine if glucocorticoids might directly inhibit growth of breast cancer cells. Growth of these cells in serum-free medium was stimulated significantly by physiological concentrations of insulin (0.1 to 1.0 nM). Pharmacological concentrations of dexamethasone (10 nM) reduced cell number below that found in controls and nearly abolished the effect of insulin after several days in culture. Thymidine and uridine, but not leucine, incorporation into macromolecules or acetate incorporation into fatty acids were similarly inhibited by dexamethasone in the presence of absence of insulin. Dexamethasone did not inhibit insulin effects by altering insulin receptor affinity or concentration, as determined by Scatchard analyses of insulin binding. Net thymidine uptake into the trichloroacetic acid-soluble fraction of the cell was stimulated by insulin and inhibited by dexamethasone also inhibited thymidine kinase activity multiple potential sites of glucocorticoid action that directly oppose the effects of insulin. They also suggest that glucocorticoids have a direct inhibitory effect on proliferation of human breast cancer cells, which may help explain breast tumor regression following pharmacological glucocorticoid therapy.", "PMID": 445441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7118", "title": "Role of adrenals and estrogen in regression of mammary tumors during postpartum lactation in the rat.", "content": "The effects of bilateral adrenalectomy or estradiol benzoate treatment were observed on growth of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)-anthracene-induced mammary tumors during postpartum lactation. In the control and estradiol benzoate-treated postpartum lactating rats, the mammary tumors decreased approximately 40% in size by Day 5 postpartum and continued to regress to 50% of their average original diameter by Day 25 postpartum. Adrenalectomy on Day 3 postpartum prevented mammary tumor regression and resulted in renewed mammary tumor growth. By Day 10 postpartum, average mammary tumor size in the adrenalectomized rats reached prepartum diameter and continued to increase in size until Day 25. Although serum prolactin concentrations were significantly higher in the lactating rats with mammary tumors than in the nonlactating rats with mammary tumors, there were no significant differences in serum corticosterone values. Adrenalectomy resulted in a significant increase in serum prolactin levels and in a marked fall in serum corticosterone levels. It is concluded that in rats adrenocortical activity is primarily responsible for reduced mammary tumor growth during postpartum lactation.", "contents": "Role of adrenals and estrogen in regression of mammary tumors during postpartum lactation in the rat. The effects of bilateral adrenalectomy or estradiol benzoate treatment were observed on growth of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)-anthracene-induced mammary tumors during postpartum lactation. In the control and estradiol benzoate-treated postpartum lactating rats, the mammary tumors decreased approximately 40% in size by Day 5 postpartum and continued to regress to 50% of their average original diameter by Day 25 postpartum. Adrenalectomy on Day 3 postpartum prevented mammary tumor regression and resulted in renewed mammary tumor growth. By Day 10 postpartum, average mammary tumor size in the adrenalectomized rats reached prepartum diameter and continued to increase in size until Day 25. Although serum prolactin concentrations were significantly higher in the lactating rats with mammary tumors than in the nonlactating rats with mammary tumors, there were no significant differences in serum corticosterone values. Adrenalectomy resulted in a significant increase in serum prolactin levels and in a marked fall in serum corticosterone levels. It is concluded that in rats adrenocortical activity is primarily responsible for reduced mammary tumor growth during postpartum lactation.", "PMID": 445443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7119", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance derived from human prostate.", "content": "Carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance, previously detected in large amounts in the medium from cultures of human prostatic epithelial cells, also is present in extracts of benign and malignant human prostate. By column chromatography, the prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance derived from cultured prostate is the same as that in tissue extracts and is distinctly different from colon-derived carcinoembryonic antigen. The molecular weight of prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance is estimated to be greater than 5 x 10(5). Prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance may be a prostate-specific substance.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance derived from human prostate. Carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance, previously detected in large amounts in the medium from cultures of human prostatic epithelial cells, also is present in extracts of benign and malignant human prostate. By column chromatography, the prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance derived from cultured prostate is the same as that in tissue extracts and is distinctly different from colon-derived carcinoembryonic antigen. The molecular weight of prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance is estimated to be greater than 5 x 10(5). Prostate-derived carcinoembryonic antigen-like substance may be a prostate-specific substance.", "PMID": 445444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7120", "title": "Zinc deficiency and growth of Ehrlich ascites tumor.", "content": "The growth rate of Ehrlich ascites tumors has been examined as a function of the zinc content of the diet of the host mice. Imposition of a diet containing a low amount of zinc (1 microgram/g) on the day of tumor transplant leads to a marked retardation in growth. Pretreatment of the mice with this diet slows the growth further so that the lifetime of the mice can be doubled. Cells in such animals are still viable and rapidly proliferate after the animals are placed on a diet containing zinc. Growth rate of the tumor is also recorded at levels of zinc (40, 80, 160, and 250 microgram/ml) in the drinking water. All of these results are examined in relationship to the zinc in the ascites fluid, which provides the zinc nutriture for the tumor. A direct correlation between growth rate and fluid zinc content is observed. The influence of diet and the tumor upon zinc content of the liver of the host is examined. The results indicate that the tumor essentially sequesters zinc from the animal under zinc-deficient conditions. Over a 10-fold range of fluid zinc values, there are no clear differences in the concentration of zinc within the ascites cells. This occurs despite the facile uptake and efflux of zinc ion by the Ehrlich cell.", "contents": "Zinc deficiency and growth of Ehrlich ascites tumor. The growth rate of Ehrlich ascites tumors has been examined as a function of the zinc content of the diet of the host mice. Imposition of a diet containing a low amount of zinc (1 microgram/g) on the day of tumor transplant leads to a marked retardation in growth. Pretreatment of the mice with this diet slows the growth further so that the lifetime of the mice can be doubled. Cells in such animals are still viable and rapidly proliferate after the animals are placed on a diet containing zinc. Growth rate of the tumor is also recorded at levels of zinc (40, 80, 160, and 250 microgram/ml) in the drinking water. All of these results are examined in relationship to the zinc in the ascites fluid, which provides the zinc nutriture for the tumor. A direct correlation between growth rate and fluid zinc content is observed. The influence of diet and the tumor upon zinc content of the liver of the host is examined. The results indicate that the tumor essentially sequesters zinc from the animal under zinc-deficient conditions. Over a 10-fold range of fluid zinc values, there are no clear differences in the concentration of zinc within the ascites cells. This occurs despite the facile uptake and efflux of zinc ion by the Ehrlich cell.", "PMID": 445445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7121", "title": "Competitive binding radioassay for 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate in tissues.", "content": "A competitive binding radioassay has been developed for 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate, based on the tight binding of this potent inhibitor to thymidylate synthetase (EC 2.1.1.45). Unbound ligand may be separated from that bound to enzyme by precipitating the intact inhibitor-enzyme complex with trichloroacetic acid. Scatchard plot analysis using a two-site model for binding yielded apparent dissociation constants of 1.2 x 10(-11) and 1.7 x 10(-10) M from a least-squares computer fit of the data. 5-Fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate could be detected in the range of 0.02 to 2.0 pmol with no apparent interference by other substances. Assay of 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate levels in L1210 ascites tumor following 5-fluorouracil in vivo revealed peak levels occurring within the first hr with a subsequent disappearance half-life of 3.9 hr. Close agreement was found between the previously described enzyme inhibition assay and the more rapid and sensitive competitive binding method.", "contents": "Competitive binding radioassay for 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate in tissues. A competitive binding radioassay has been developed for 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate, based on the tight binding of this potent inhibitor to thymidylate synthetase (EC 2.1.1.45). Unbound ligand may be separated from that bound to enzyme by precipitating the intact inhibitor-enzyme complex with trichloroacetic acid. Scatchard plot analysis using a two-site model for binding yielded apparent dissociation constants of 1.2 x 10(-11) and 1.7 x 10(-10) M from a least-squares computer fit of the data. 5-Fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate could be detected in the range of 0.02 to 2.0 pmol with no apparent interference by other substances. Assay of 5-fluorodeoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate levels in L1210 ascites tumor following 5-fluorouracil in vivo revealed peak levels occurring within the first hr with a subsequent disappearance half-life of 3.9 hr. Close agreement was found between the previously described enzyme inhibition assay and the more rapid and sensitive competitive binding method.", "PMID": 445447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7122", "title": "Temporary disappearance (\"eclipse\") of LPC-1 plasmacytoma M component synthesis following tumor cell transfer.", "content": "The early phase of LPC-1 plasmacytoma development was studied by in vivo labeling with [6-14C]arginine using its M component (immunoglobulin G 2a,kappa) as marker. At a time when M component was not detected or faint by protein staining of electrophoretograms, significant labeling of M component was detectable by autoradiography. Labeling of the M component was fairly constant for the first 10 hr but was markedly decreased from Days 1 to 7. Nadir (0 to 3% of initial 30-min value) was observed on Day 3. Recovery of M component labeling to the 30-min level was complete by Day 13. This period of marked reduction or \"eclipse\" in newly synthesized M component was shortened by 2 days when mice were pretreated with pristane or cyclophosphamide prior to tumor cell transfer. The eclipse period was also 2 days shorter in athymic BALB/c-nu/nu mice than in normal BALB/c mice. The eclipse period corresponds to the classical \"lag\" following tumor cell transfer before tumor growth can be detected by conventional methods. The sensitivity of the [6-14C]arginine pulse permits the in vivo detection of small numbers of tumor cells (as few as 10(6) cells) over the early time periods after cell transfer. Modification of eclipse by manipulating host and/or tumor cells may elucidate the accompanying cellular and biochemical events.", "contents": "Temporary disappearance (\"eclipse\") of LPC-1 plasmacytoma M component synthesis following tumor cell transfer. The early phase of LPC-1 plasmacytoma development was studied by in vivo labeling with [6-14C]arginine using its M component (immunoglobulin G 2a,kappa) as marker. At a time when M component was not detected or faint by protein staining of electrophoretograms, significant labeling of M component was detectable by autoradiography. Labeling of the M component was fairly constant for the first 10 hr but was markedly decreased from Days 1 to 7. Nadir (0 to 3% of initial 30-min value) was observed on Day 3. Recovery of M component labeling to the 30-min level was complete by Day 13. This period of marked reduction or \"eclipse\" in newly synthesized M component was shortened by 2 days when mice were pretreated with pristane or cyclophosphamide prior to tumor cell transfer. The eclipse period was also 2 days shorter in athymic BALB/c-nu/nu mice than in normal BALB/c mice. The eclipse period corresponds to the classical \"lag\" following tumor cell transfer before tumor growth can be detected by conventional methods. The sensitivity of the [6-14C]arginine pulse permits the in vivo detection of small numbers of tumor cells (as few as 10(6) cells) over the early time periods after cell transfer. Modification of eclipse by manipulating host and/or tumor cells may elucidate the accompanying cellular and biochemical events.", "PMID": 445451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7123", "title": "Macromolecular binding and metabolism of the carcinogen 4-chloro-2-methylaniline.", "content": "Biochemical investigations relating to the mechanism of action and mechanism of activation have been made for the carcinogen, 4-chloro-2-methylaniline. Radioactivity from 4-chloro-2-[methyl-14C]methylaniline became extensively bound to protein, DNA, and RNA of rat liver, but macromolecules of some of the other tissues examined contained little radioactivity. Enzymatic activity dependent upon reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and leading to irreversible binding to radioactivity from labeled 4-chloro-2-methylaniline to macromolecules in the reaction system was present in microsomes from rat liver. The activity was inducible by phenobarbital. Two soluble products of microsomal enzymes were identified by mass spectral analysis and chemical synthesis as 5-chloro-2-hydroxylaminotoluene and 4,4'-dichloro-2,2'-dimethylazobenzene. The hydroxylamino compound appears to be a more activated form of 4-chloro-2-methylaniline.", "contents": "Macromolecular binding and metabolism of the carcinogen 4-chloro-2-methylaniline. Biochemical investigations relating to the mechanism of action and mechanism of activation have been made for the carcinogen, 4-chloro-2-methylaniline. Radioactivity from 4-chloro-2-[methyl-14C]methylaniline became extensively bound to protein, DNA, and RNA of rat liver, but macromolecules of some of the other tissues examined contained little radioactivity. Enzymatic activity dependent upon reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and leading to irreversible binding to radioactivity from labeled 4-chloro-2-methylaniline to macromolecules in the reaction system was present in microsomes from rat liver. The activity was inducible by phenobarbital. Two soluble products of microsomal enzymes were identified by mass spectral analysis and chemical synthesis as 5-chloro-2-hydroxylaminotoluene and 4,4'-dichloro-2,2'-dimethylazobenzene. The hydroxylamino compound appears to be a more activated form of 4-chloro-2-methylaniline.", "PMID": 445453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7124", "title": "Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin enhancement of colony-stimulating activity and myeloid colony formation following administration of cyclophosphamide.", "content": "Pretreatment of mice with Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG) enhances recovery of the peripheral granulocyte count from cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced leukopenia. In the present study, in vitro bone marrow culture was used to assess the effect of BCG pretreatment on serum levels of myeloid colony-stimulating activity and on regeneration of bone marrow myeloid colony-forming units (CFU-c) following CTX. C57BL/6 mice received either BCG or 0.9% NaCl solution i.p. 8 days prior to the administration of CTX (300 mg/kg i.p.). Following CTX, peak serum levels of myeloid colony-stimulating activity were strikingly higher in the BCG-pretreated mice [1320 +/- 30 (S.E.) units] than in the 0.9% NaCl solution-pretreated mice (764 +/- 37 units). BCG pretreatment also resulted in higher numbers of marrow CFU-c during recovery from CTX (e.g., 43.9 +/- 1.8 versus 20.0 +/- 0.9 myeloid colonies/10(5) marrow cells, Day 3 post-CTX). However, neither the rate of decline nor the absolute nadir of CFU-c, nor CFU-c cell cycle characteristics were affected by the pretreatment. The initial effect of i.p. BCG pretreatment on recovery from CTX-induced granulocytopenia is an augmentation of serum myeloid colony-stimulating activity which precedes the enhanced regeneration of CFU-c and the accelerated recovery of the peripheral granulocyte count.", "contents": "Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin enhancement of colony-stimulating activity and myeloid colony formation following administration of cyclophosphamide. Pretreatment of mice with Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin (BCG) enhances recovery of the peripheral granulocyte count from cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced leukopenia. In the present study, in vitro bone marrow culture was used to assess the effect of BCG pretreatment on serum levels of myeloid colony-stimulating activity and on regeneration of bone marrow myeloid colony-forming units (CFU-c) following CTX. C57BL/6 mice received either BCG or 0.9% NaCl solution i.p. 8 days prior to the administration of CTX (300 mg/kg i.p.). Following CTX, peak serum levels of myeloid colony-stimulating activity were strikingly higher in the BCG-pretreated mice [1320 +/- 30 (S.E.) units] than in the 0.9% NaCl solution-pretreated mice (764 +/- 37 units). BCG pretreatment also resulted in higher numbers of marrow CFU-c during recovery from CTX (e.g., 43.9 +/- 1.8 versus 20.0 +/- 0.9 myeloid colonies/10(5) marrow cells, Day 3 post-CTX). However, neither the rate of decline nor the absolute nadir of CFU-c, nor CFU-c cell cycle characteristics were affected by the pretreatment. The initial effect of i.p. BCG pretreatment on recovery from CTX-induced granulocytopenia is an augmentation of serum myeloid colony-stimulating activity which precedes the enhanced regeneration of CFU-c and the accelerated recovery of the peripheral granulocyte count.", "PMID": 445455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7125", "title": "Increased in vitro toxicity to mouse bone marrow with 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and hyperthermia.", "content": "Hyperthermia has been shown to increase the cytotoxic effect of certain cancer chemotherapeutic agents in vitro and in vivo. It is not known whether the combination of hyperthermia plus these chemotherapeutic drugs will also increase the toxicity of the drugs. This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxic effects of 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea combined with hyperthermia on normal mouse bone marrow in vitro. An increased effect of the combination was seen when the marrow was heated at 42 degrees in the presence of the drug for 15 min (p less than 0.025) and for 1 hr (p less than 0.005). Incubations for 2 hr produced a significant decrease of control growth, such that no increased effect of the combination of drug plus hyperthermia could be seen. In order for the increased effects to be seen, heating had to be done simultaneously in the presence of the drug. Clinicians using the combination of whole-body hyperthermia plus 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea should be aware of possible increased marrow toxicity.", "contents": "Increased in vitro toxicity to mouse bone marrow with 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and hyperthermia. Hyperthermia has been shown to increase the cytotoxic effect of certain cancer chemotherapeutic agents in vitro and in vivo. It is not known whether the combination of hyperthermia plus these chemotherapeutic drugs will also increase the toxicity of the drugs. This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxic effects of 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea combined with hyperthermia on normal mouse bone marrow in vitro. An increased effect of the combination was seen when the marrow was heated at 42 degrees in the presence of the drug for 15 min (p less than 0.025) and for 1 hr (p less than 0.005). Incubations for 2 hr produced a significant decrease of control growth, such that no increased effect of the combination of drug plus hyperthermia could be seen. In order for the increased effects to be seen, heating had to be done simultaneously in the presence of the drug. Clinicians using the combination of whole-body hyperthermia plus 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea should be aware of possible increased marrow toxicity.", "PMID": 445456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7126", "title": "Dose response for benzo(a)pyrene adducts in mouse epidermal DNA.", "content": "The dose dependency of the binding of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) with DNA of mouse epidermis was investigated. BaP-conjugated epidermal DNA was isolated and enzymatically degraded to deoxyribonucleosides. The BaP-DNA adducts were separated by Sephadex LH-20 column or high-performance liquid chromatography. Two major BaP-DNA adducts were found. One was in the region of the elution profile that contained polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons adducted to deoxyribonucleosides. The other adduct was eluted from Sephadex LH-20 and high-performance liquid chromatography columns before the deoxyribonucleosides and after deoxyribonucleotides. Both adducts of BaP in epidermal DNA reached a maximum 7 hr after a single skin application, and subsequently little, if any, loss of adducts was observed for 49 hr. Both adducts varied as a linear function for topical doses in the range from 0.01 to 300 microgram/mouse. The formation of DNA adducts by BaP occurred in proportion to dose at doses several orders of magnitude below those that are feasible to test for carcinogenicity.", "contents": "Dose response for benzo(a)pyrene adducts in mouse epidermal DNA. The dose dependency of the binding of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) with DNA of mouse epidermis was investigated. BaP-conjugated epidermal DNA was isolated and enzymatically degraded to deoxyribonucleosides. The BaP-DNA adducts were separated by Sephadex LH-20 column or high-performance liquid chromatography. Two major BaP-DNA adducts were found. One was in the region of the elution profile that contained polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons adducted to deoxyribonucleosides. The other adduct was eluted from Sephadex LH-20 and high-performance liquid chromatography columns before the deoxyribonucleosides and after deoxyribonucleotides. Both adducts of BaP in epidermal DNA reached a maximum 7 hr after a single skin application, and subsequently little, if any, loss of adducts was observed for 49 hr. Both adducts varied as a linear function for topical doses in the range from 0.01 to 300 microgram/mouse. The formation of DNA adducts by BaP occurred in proportion to dose at doses several orders of magnitude below those that are feasible to test for carcinogenicity.", "PMID": 445457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7127", "title": "Cervicovaginal and mammary gland abnormalities in BALB/cCrgl mice treated neonatally with progesterone and estrogen, alone or in combination.", "content": "Neonatal female BALB/cCrgl mice (mammary tumor virus unexpressed) were given a daily injection of estradiol and/or progesterone for 5 days, beginning within 36 hr after birth. About one-half of each group was ovariectomized when 40 days old, and all mice were killed when between 18.5 and 26 months of age. Neonatal progesterone leads to ovary-dependent persistent vaginal cornification and hyperplasia. In addition, 16 of the 24 progesterone-treated mice had genital tract lesions, and 4 of these showed predominantly glandular features. No such lesions were observed in either oil-treated or untreated mice. Lesions were also observed in both intact and ovariectomized mice treated with estrogen-progesterone combinations, but most of the lesions were not as severe as those seen in mice treated neonatally with progesterone alone, and they were predominantly squamous in appearance. Although mammary tumors were not observed in either the control or the neonatally steroid-treated intact mice, many in the latter groups possessed hyperplastic alveolar-like mammary nodules and other abnormalities.", "contents": "Cervicovaginal and mammary gland abnormalities in BALB/cCrgl mice treated neonatally with progesterone and estrogen, alone or in combination. Neonatal female BALB/cCrgl mice (mammary tumor virus unexpressed) were given a daily injection of estradiol and/or progesterone for 5 days, beginning within 36 hr after birth. About one-half of each group was ovariectomized when 40 days old, and all mice were killed when between 18.5 and 26 months of age. Neonatal progesterone leads to ovary-dependent persistent vaginal cornification and hyperplasia. In addition, 16 of the 24 progesterone-treated mice had genital tract lesions, and 4 of these showed predominantly glandular features. No such lesions were observed in either oil-treated or untreated mice. Lesions were also observed in both intact and ovariectomized mice treated with estrogen-progesterone combinations, but most of the lesions were not as severe as those seen in mice treated neonatally with progesterone alone, and they were predominantly squamous in appearance. Although mammary tumors were not observed in either the control or the neonatally steroid-treated intact mice, many in the latter groups possessed hyperplastic alveolar-like mammary nodules and other abnormalities.", "PMID": 445458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7128", "title": "Mechanism of action of tetra-mu-carboxylatodirhodium(II) in L1210 tumor suspension culture.", "content": "The effect of tetrakis-mu-methoxyacetato, tetra-mu-acetato, tetra-mu-propionato, and tetra-mu-butyratodirhodium(II) on the proliferation and macromolecular synthesis of leukemia L1210 cells in suspension culture was evaluated. The cytotoxicity of these dimeric rhodium(II) complexes to tumor cells in suspension culture follows the same trend as observed in vivo, i.e., butyrato greater than propionato greater than acetato greater than methoxyacetato. The cellular synthesis of DNA and protein was found to be strongly inhibited by tetra-mu-propionatodirhodium(II), whereas minimal inhibition of RNA synthesis was observed. Flow microfluorometric analysis of the drug-treated cells revealed an arrest of cellular development during the G2 phase of the cell cycle. The inhibition of DNA synthesis was attributed at least in part to the arrest in G2 which is consistent with the observed inhibition of protein synthesis.", "contents": "Mechanism of action of tetra-mu-carboxylatodirhodium(II) in L1210 tumor suspension culture. The effect of tetrakis-mu-methoxyacetato, tetra-mu-acetato, tetra-mu-propionato, and tetra-mu-butyratodirhodium(II) on the proliferation and macromolecular synthesis of leukemia L1210 cells in suspension culture was evaluated. The cytotoxicity of these dimeric rhodium(II) complexes to tumor cells in suspension culture follows the same trend as observed in vivo, i.e., butyrato greater than propionato greater than acetato greater than methoxyacetato. The cellular synthesis of DNA and protein was found to be strongly inhibited by tetra-mu-propionatodirhodium(II), whereas minimal inhibition of RNA synthesis was observed. Flow microfluorometric analysis of the drug-treated cells revealed an arrest of cellular development during the G2 phase of the cell cycle. The inhibition of DNA synthesis was attributed at least in part to the arrest in G2 which is consistent with the observed inhibition of protein synthesis.", "PMID": 445459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7129", "title": "Transplantability and sex steroid hormone responsiveness of cervicovaginal tumors derived from female BALB/cCrgl mice neonatally treated with ovarian steroids.", "content": "Twenty-eight cervicovaginal tracts from approximately 2-year-old female BALB/cCrgl mice neonatally exposed to ovarian steroids were cut into small segments and transplanted into syngeneic hosts. Within six months, six of 28 host animals developed tumors. Three tumors were from progesterone-exposed mice, two were from estrogen-exposed mice, and one was from estrogen-progesterone-exposed mice. These tumors have been maintained by serial transplantation for approximately two years. The progesterone-induced tumors are mixed tumors with both squamous cell and glandular components. The estrogen-induced tumors are squamous cell carcinomas. The estrogen-progesterone-induced tumor was originally a squamous cell carcinoma, which now resembles a basal cell carcinoma. The other tumors have maintained their original morphological characteristics. All tumors have proven to be hormone independent. No control cervicovaginal tracts developed tumors after transplantation, even after 24 months in the host animals.", "contents": "Transplantability and sex steroid hormone responsiveness of cervicovaginal tumors derived from female BALB/cCrgl mice neonatally treated with ovarian steroids. Twenty-eight cervicovaginal tracts from approximately 2-year-old female BALB/cCrgl mice neonatally exposed to ovarian steroids were cut into small segments and transplanted into syngeneic hosts. Within six months, six of 28 host animals developed tumors. Three tumors were from progesterone-exposed mice, two were from estrogen-exposed mice, and one was from estrogen-progesterone-exposed mice. These tumors have been maintained by serial transplantation for approximately two years. The progesterone-induced tumors are mixed tumors with both squamous cell and glandular components. The estrogen-induced tumors are squamous cell carcinomas. The estrogen-progesterone-induced tumor was originally a squamous cell carcinoma, which now resembles a basal cell carcinoma. The other tumors have maintained their original morphological characteristics. All tumors have proven to be hormone independent. No control cervicovaginal tracts developed tumors after transplantation, even after 24 months in the host animals.", "PMID": 445460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7130", "title": "Two-dimensional electrophoresis of membrane proteins from normal and transformed cells.", "content": "We have compared cell surface proteins and glycoproteins from normal and transformed cells by two-dimensional electrophoresis. The tumor lines studied include viral and spontaneous transformants which cause tumors that either regress, or grow progressively and kill the host. After the cells were labeled, crude membranes were prepared, and their protein components were resolved by two-dimensional electrophoresis. Cells were labeled with either [35S]methionine, [14C]glucosamine, or 125I-lactoperoxidase. This allows comparison of cell-cell differences in surface structure as well as membrane proteins and glycoproteins. We have demonstrated that not all transformed cell lines give a characteristic \"transformed\" protein pattern. Many of the differences between the normal and transformed cell protein patterns may be related to alterations in the carbohydrate of membrane glycoproteins. A correlation can be made between the patterns obtained for cell lines and the immunogenicity and tumorigenicity of these cells in vivo.", "contents": "Two-dimensional electrophoresis of membrane proteins from normal and transformed cells. We have compared cell surface proteins and glycoproteins from normal and transformed cells by two-dimensional electrophoresis. The tumor lines studied include viral and spontaneous transformants which cause tumors that either regress, or grow progressively and kill the host. After the cells were labeled, crude membranes were prepared, and their protein components were resolved by two-dimensional electrophoresis. Cells were labeled with either [35S]methionine, [14C]glucosamine, or 125I-lactoperoxidase. This allows comparison of cell-cell differences in surface structure as well as membrane proteins and glycoproteins. We have demonstrated that not all transformed cell lines give a characteristic \"transformed\" protein pattern. Many of the differences between the normal and transformed cell protein patterns may be related to alterations in the carbohydrate of membrane glycoproteins. A correlation can be made between the patterns obtained for cell lines and the immunogenicity and tumorigenicity of these cells in vivo.", "PMID": 445461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7131", "title": "Increased progesterone receptor concentrations in bladder lesions of estrogen-treated Syrian hamsters.", "content": "During studies of renal tumorigenesis induced by estrogen in Syrian hamsters, we have observed that about 15 to 20% of animals develop bladder lesions with an increased wet weight of tissue from 0.2 g to 0.4 to 1.7 g. Histological examination of the lesions showed a spectrum of changes from inflammatory reactions to squamous metaplasia and intense hyperplasia of the transitional epithelium. The concentration of progesterone-binding sites was increased in the bladders with lesions. No specific progesterone-binding sites could be detected in the cytosol of bladders from hamsters not treated with estrogen. The affinity constant for the progesterone-binding sites in cytosol from bladders with lesions was 10(9) M-1, the same as that reported for progesterone receptors in other target tissues for estrogen. The binding sites are specific for progesterone and are not competed for by 17 beta-estradiol, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, or aldosterone.", "contents": "Increased progesterone receptor concentrations in bladder lesions of estrogen-treated Syrian hamsters. During studies of renal tumorigenesis induced by estrogen in Syrian hamsters, we have observed that about 15 to 20% of animals develop bladder lesions with an increased wet weight of tissue from 0.2 g to 0.4 to 1.7 g. Histological examination of the lesions showed a spectrum of changes from inflammatory reactions to squamous metaplasia and intense hyperplasia of the transitional epithelium. The concentration of progesterone-binding sites was increased in the bladders with lesions. No specific progesterone-binding sites could be detected in the cytosol of bladders from hamsters not treated with estrogen. The affinity constant for the progesterone-binding sites in cytosol from bladders with lesions was 10(9) M-1, the same as that reported for progesterone receptors in other target tissues for estrogen. The binding sites are specific for progesterone and are not competed for by 17 beta-estradiol, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, or aldosterone.", "PMID": 445462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7132", "title": "Stimulation of differentiated functions in human melanoma cells by tumor-promoting agents and dimethyl sulfoxide.", "content": "Treatment of cultured human HO melanoma cells with the mouse skin tumor promoter phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) at 5 x 10(-10) to 5 x 10(-7) M resulted in a dose-related inhibition of growth and a stimulation of differentiated functions. These included melanin synthesis and formation of dendrite-like structures. Higher doses of phorbol dibutyrate, a less potent tumor promoter, were required to produce an effect comparable to that of PMA for dendrite induction. Phorbol and two other phorbol esters, which lack tumor-promoting activity, were either inactive or elicited a poor response. In addition to morphological changes, treatment with PMA altered glucosamine incorporation into membrane gangliosides. After PMA treatment, glucosamine incorporation increased 8- to 10-fold in the GM3 ganglioside and decreased 2-fold in the GM1 ganglioside, as compared to phorbol or untreated control. Inhibition of cell growth and stimulation of melanin synthesis were also observed after treatment of the HO cells with dimethyl sulfoxide. Unlike the tumor-promoting agents, dimethyl sulfoxide did not induce the formation of dendrite-like structures in the cells. These findings indicate that HO melanoma cells can be stimulated into terminally differentiated cells after treatment with tumor-promoting agents such as phorbol diesters.", "contents": "Stimulation of differentiated functions in human melanoma cells by tumor-promoting agents and dimethyl sulfoxide. Treatment of cultured human HO melanoma cells with the mouse skin tumor promoter phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) at 5 x 10(-10) to 5 x 10(-7) M resulted in a dose-related inhibition of growth and a stimulation of differentiated functions. These included melanin synthesis and formation of dendrite-like structures. Higher doses of phorbol dibutyrate, a less potent tumor promoter, were required to produce an effect comparable to that of PMA for dendrite induction. Phorbol and two other phorbol esters, which lack tumor-promoting activity, were either inactive or elicited a poor response. In addition to morphological changes, treatment with PMA altered glucosamine incorporation into membrane gangliosides. After PMA treatment, glucosamine incorporation increased 8- to 10-fold in the GM3 ganglioside and decreased 2-fold in the GM1 ganglioside, as compared to phorbol or untreated control. Inhibition of cell growth and stimulation of melanin synthesis were also observed after treatment of the HO cells with dimethyl sulfoxide. Unlike the tumor-promoting agents, dimethyl sulfoxide did not induce the formation of dendrite-like structures in the cells. These findings indicate that HO melanoma cells can be stimulated into terminally differentiated cells after treatment with tumor-promoting agents such as phorbol diesters.", "PMID": 445463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7133", "title": "Response of exponentially growing, stationary-phase, and synchronized cultured human colon carcinoma cells to treatment with nitrosourea derivatives.", "content": "The lethal effects of two nitrosourea derivatives, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and 4-[3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido]-cis-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, on a continuous line of human colon carcinoma cells (LoVo cells) were investigated. The survival response of exponentially growing and stationary-phase LoVo cells to both drugs were of the threshold exponential type. Survival was identical whether drugs were dissolved in medium or in Hanks' balanced salt solution. In contrast to previous results obtained for human lymphoma cells, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea exerted a progressively greater killing effect on LoVo cells as the incubation time was prolonged, while 4-[3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido]-cis-cyclohexane-carboxylic acid, under similar circumstances presented decreased lethality in comparison to both 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and the effect previously observed for the lymphoma cells. Although no recovery from potentially lethal damage was noted for both exponentially growing and stationary-phase cells treated with each agent, in split-dose experiments, LoVo cells were able to recover from sublethal damage. No significant cell cycle stage dependent differences in killing ability were observed for the two agents.", "contents": "Response of exponentially growing, stationary-phase, and synchronized cultured human colon carcinoma cells to treatment with nitrosourea derivatives. The lethal effects of two nitrosourea derivatives, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and 4-[3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido]-cis-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, on a continuous line of human colon carcinoma cells (LoVo cells) were investigated. The survival response of exponentially growing and stationary-phase LoVo cells to both drugs were of the threshold exponential type. Survival was identical whether drugs were dissolved in medium or in Hanks' balanced salt solution. In contrast to previous results obtained for human lymphoma cells, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea exerted a progressively greater killing effect on LoVo cells as the incubation time was prolonged, while 4-[3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido]-cis-cyclohexane-carboxylic acid, under similar circumstances presented decreased lethality in comparison to both 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea and the effect previously observed for the lymphoma cells. Although no recovery from potentially lethal damage was noted for both exponentially growing and stationary-phase cells treated with each agent, in split-dose experiments, LoVo cells were able to recover from sublethal damage. No significant cell cycle stage dependent differences in killing ability were observed for the two agents.", "PMID": 445465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7134", "title": "Neutral fucolipids and fucogangliosides of rat hepatoma HTC and H35 cells, rat liver, and hepatocytes.", "content": "Neutral fucolipids and fucogangliosides of normal rat liver, normal rat hepatocytes, and rat hepatoma H35 and HTC cells have been compared. H35 cells were characterized by accumulation of a relatively large quantity of a few neutral fucolipids and a major fucoganglioside. HTC cells were characterized by accumulation of several neutral fucolipids and by the absence of fucogangliosides. Those fucolipids which accumulated in hepatoma cells were absent in normal rat liver and normal hepatocytes. Normal hepatocytes and normal rat liver contained a low quantity of fucolipids which migrated differently on thin-layer chromatography from those which accumulated in hepatoma cells. In addition to these qualitative differences, the quantity of total fucose in purified glycolipid fraction was much higher in H35 and significantly higher in HTC cells than that in rat liver. A fucoganglioside which accumulated in H35 cells was tentatively characterized as a fucosylated GM1 ganglioside with the following structure: (formula: see text). The results indicate that anomalous fucosylation on glycolipid may take place in hepatoma cells.", "contents": "Neutral fucolipids and fucogangliosides of rat hepatoma HTC and H35 cells, rat liver, and hepatocytes. Neutral fucolipids and fucogangliosides of normal rat liver, normal rat hepatocytes, and rat hepatoma H35 and HTC cells have been compared. H35 cells were characterized by accumulation of a relatively large quantity of a few neutral fucolipids and a major fucoganglioside. HTC cells were characterized by accumulation of several neutral fucolipids and by the absence of fucogangliosides. Those fucolipids which accumulated in hepatoma cells were absent in normal rat liver and normal hepatocytes. Normal hepatocytes and normal rat liver contained a low quantity of fucolipids which migrated differently on thin-layer chromatography from those which accumulated in hepatoma cells. In addition to these qualitative differences, the quantity of total fucose in purified glycolipid fraction was much higher in H35 and significantly higher in HTC cells than that in rat liver. A fucoganglioside which accumulated in H35 cells was tentatively characterized as a fucosylated GM1 ganglioside with the following structure: (formula: see text). The results indicate that anomalous fucosylation on glycolipid may take place in hepatoma cells.", "PMID": 445466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7135", "title": "Nuclear retention of all steroid hormone receptor classes in the hamster renal carcinoma.", "content": "The estrogen-induced hamster renal carcinoma contains appreciable amounts of all cytosolic steroid receptor classes sedimenting as 7 to 8S moieties following sucrose gradient centrifugation. Their relative concentrations, expressed in fmol/mg protein +/- S.E. are progesterone (1496 +/- 23) greater than estradiol (218 +/- 3) greater than 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (154 +/- 7) greater than dexamethasone (138 +/- 3) greater than aldosterone (40 +/- 2). No cross-competition is apparent for either estrogen or progesterone receptors, but progesterone competes for both androgen and adrenocorticoid binding. These hormone-receptor complexes undergo nuclear translocation using purified tumor nuclei and in tissue minces at elevated temperatures. Salt-extractable nuclear receptors for estrogen (5S), androgen (3.2S), progesterone (2.7S), and corticosteroid (3.5S) have been identified. The existence of five specific steroid receptors within a single tissue is unique and provides a novel model for studying the interrelated actions of all steroid hormones and their therapeutic responses in a hormone-dependent neoplasm.", "contents": "Nuclear retention of all steroid hormone receptor classes in the hamster renal carcinoma. The estrogen-induced hamster renal carcinoma contains appreciable amounts of all cytosolic steroid receptor classes sedimenting as 7 to 8S moieties following sucrose gradient centrifugation. Their relative concentrations, expressed in fmol/mg protein +/- S.E. are progesterone (1496 +/- 23) greater than estradiol (218 +/- 3) greater than 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (154 +/- 7) greater than dexamethasone (138 +/- 3) greater than aldosterone (40 +/- 2). No cross-competition is apparent for either estrogen or progesterone receptors, but progesterone competes for both androgen and adrenocorticoid binding. These hormone-receptor complexes undergo nuclear translocation using purified tumor nuclei and in tissue minces at elevated temperatures. Salt-extractable nuclear receptors for estrogen (5S), androgen (3.2S), progesterone (2.7S), and corticosteroid (3.5S) have been identified. The existence of five specific steroid receptors within a single tissue is unique and provides a novel model for studying the interrelated actions of all steroid hormones and their therapeutic responses in a hormone-dependent neoplasm.", "PMID": 445467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7136", "title": "Models for development of nonreceptor methods for distinguishing androgen-sensitive and -insensitive prostatic tumors.", "content": "From the original Dunning R-3327 rat prostatic adenocarcinoma, several distinct sublines have been obtained. These sublines include a well-differentiated, slow-growing, androgen-sensitive tumor (R-3327-H); a well-differentiated, slow-growing, androgen-insensitive tumor (R-3327-HI); and a fast-growing, androgen-insensitive, anaplastic tumor (R-3327-AT). These three sublines were compared in order to develop new model methods for the prediction of the androgen sensitivity and the degree of differentiation of prostatic adenocarcinomas. The R-3327-AT was very distinct in all parameters examined except the tissue protein electrophoretic patterns which contained a uniform pattern in all tumors. The significant differences between R-3327-H and -HI sublines were (a) the inability of testosterone to stimulate DNA synthesis in the R-3327-HI tumor and (b) the difference in the enzymatic profiles of these sublines. The specific activity of three enzymes (3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, leucine aminopeptidase, lactic dehydrogenase) increased while the activity of another three enzymes (6 alpha,7 alpha-hydroxylase, 5 alpha-reductase, alkaline phosphatase) decreased in the sublines which are androgen insensitive and less differentiated. An arbitrary index was constructed, based upon these enzyme differences, which clearly discriminates the degree of androgen sensitivity and differentiation of these R-3327 rat prostatic adenocarcinomas.", "contents": "Models for development of nonreceptor methods for distinguishing androgen-sensitive and -insensitive prostatic tumors. From the original Dunning R-3327 rat prostatic adenocarcinoma, several distinct sublines have been obtained. These sublines include a well-differentiated, slow-growing, androgen-sensitive tumor (R-3327-H); a well-differentiated, slow-growing, androgen-insensitive tumor (R-3327-HI); and a fast-growing, androgen-insensitive, anaplastic tumor (R-3327-AT). These three sublines were compared in order to develop new model methods for the prediction of the androgen sensitivity and the degree of differentiation of prostatic adenocarcinomas. The R-3327-AT was very distinct in all parameters examined except the tissue protein electrophoretic patterns which contained a uniform pattern in all tumors. The significant differences between R-3327-H and -HI sublines were (a) the inability of testosterone to stimulate DNA synthesis in the R-3327-HI tumor and (b) the difference in the enzymatic profiles of these sublines. The specific activity of three enzymes (3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, leucine aminopeptidase, lactic dehydrogenase) increased while the activity of another three enzymes (6 alpha,7 alpha-hydroxylase, 5 alpha-reductase, alkaline phosphatase) decreased in the sublines which are androgen insensitive and less differentiated. An arbitrary index was constructed, based upon these enzyme differences, which clearly discriminates the degree of androgen sensitivity and differentiation of these R-3327 rat prostatic adenocarcinomas.", "PMID": 445468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7137", "title": "Differences in the removal of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-methylated products in DNase I-sensitive and -resistant regions of rat brain DNA.", "content": "The present study with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and rat brain DNA was performed in order to study the distribution of alkylated products and the difference in the removal of these products from DNase I-sensitive and -resistant regions of DNA. Nuclei were isolated from N-[3H]methyl-N-nitrosourea-treated rats and incubated in the presence of DNase I (5 microgram/ml). Digested DNA was further hydrolyzed in 0.1 N HCl, and the alkylated products were identified by chromatography on a cation-exchange column. Resistant DNA was isolated, hydrolyzed, and again the alkylated products were determined. At 4 hr, the specific activity of all the alkylated products in the sensitive regions of DNA was several times higher than the resistant fraction. The rate of loss for the products was greater in the sensitive than the resistant fractions. O6-Methylguanine was removed from the sensitive regions but was more stable in the resistant regions. These results suggest that DNase I-sensitive regions of the DNA are preferentially alkylated by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and that the alkylated products, including O6-methylguanine, are selectively removed from the DNase I-sensitive regions of the DNA.", "contents": "Differences in the removal of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-methylated products in DNase I-sensitive and -resistant regions of rat brain DNA. The present study with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and rat brain DNA was performed in order to study the distribution of alkylated products and the difference in the removal of these products from DNase I-sensitive and -resistant regions of DNA. Nuclei were isolated from N-[3H]methyl-N-nitrosourea-treated rats and incubated in the presence of DNase I (5 microgram/ml). Digested DNA was further hydrolyzed in 0.1 N HCl, and the alkylated products were identified by chromatography on a cation-exchange column. Resistant DNA was isolated, hydrolyzed, and again the alkylated products were determined. At 4 hr, the specific activity of all the alkylated products in the sensitive regions of DNA was several times higher than the resistant fraction. The rate of loss for the products was greater in the sensitive than the resistant fractions. O6-Methylguanine was removed from the sensitive regions but was more stable in the resistant regions. These results suggest that DNase I-sensitive regions of the DNA are preferentially alkylated by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and that the alkylated products, including O6-methylguanine, are selectively removed from the DNase I-sensitive regions of the DNA.", "PMID": 445470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7138", "title": "Metabolism of the liver carcinogen N-nitrosopyrrolidine by rat liver microsomes.", "content": "This report represents a study of the total metabolism of the hepatocellular carcinogen, N-nitrosopyrrolidine (NO-PYR), by rat liver microsomes and postmicrosomal supernatant. [2,5-14C]NO-PYR, which is totally extractable from aqueous solution with methylene chloride, is converted to radioactive nonmethylene chloride-extractable products by these fractions. The initial rate of conversion to nonmethylene chloride-extractable products follows simple Michaelis-Menten kinetics with an apparent Km of 3.6 x 10(-4) M NO-PYR. The major products of NO-PYR metabolism by rat liver microsomes and postmicrosomal supernatant have been isolated and identified. One product of metabolism of NO-PYR is 2-hydroxytetrahydrofuran formed by alpha-hydroxylation by the microsomes. In the presence of postmicrosomal supernatant enzymes, this compound exists only as a transient intermediate which is rapidly converted to 1,4-butanediol or gamma-hydroxybutyrate. These compounds may be cycled into general cellular metabolism resulting in the production of CO2. Two minor pathways of metabolism have also been found.", "contents": "Metabolism of the liver carcinogen N-nitrosopyrrolidine by rat liver microsomes. This report represents a study of the total metabolism of the hepatocellular carcinogen, N-nitrosopyrrolidine (NO-PYR), by rat liver microsomes and postmicrosomal supernatant. [2,5-14C]NO-PYR, which is totally extractable from aqueous solution with methylene chloride, is converted to radioactive nonmethylene chloride-extractable products by these fractions. The initial rate of conversion to nonmethylene chloride-extractable products follows simple Michaelis-Menten kinetics with an apparent Km of 3.6 x 10(-4) M NO-PYR. The major products of NO-PYR metabolism by rat liver microsomes and postmicrosomal supernatant have been isolated and identified. One product of metabolism of NO-PYR is 2-hydroxytetrahydrofuran formed by alpha-hydroxylation by the microsomes. In the presence of postmicrosomal supernatant enzymes, this compound exists only as a transient intermediate which is rapidly converted to 1,4-butanediol or gamma-hydroxybutyrate. These compounds may be cycled into general cellular metabolism resulting in the production of CO2. Two minor pathways of metabolism have also been found.", "PMID": 445471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7139", "title": "Migration of intraperitoneally injected thyroid cells in the Amazon molly, Poecilia formosa.", "content": "We have previously reported the development of an extensive invasive growth of the thyroid gland of the gynogenetic teleost, Poecilia formosa (the Amazon molly), following i.p. injection of UV- or gamma-irradiated thyroid cells. This result was surprising by comparison with mammalian work, in which the thyroid is rarely the site for tumor metastases, but the anatomy of the circulation of fish is different from mammals, and in fish the gills and thyroid gland would be among the first tissues in which injected cells might be arrested. Techniques using a fluorescent dye, 125I membrane label, or [3H]thymidine label were used to follow the distribution of i.p. injected cells in the Amazon molly. Fish sampled as soon as 30 min after injection had some labeled cells dispersed in the connective tissue around the ventral aorta and in the bases of the gills, and by 1 to 4 hr large numbers of cells had moved into the thyroid region. A few cells still persisted there 200 hr later. Experiments on the distribution of heat-killed cells indicated that the initial distribution of the cells was largely governed by mechanical factors. Injected cells would appear to be disseminated in fish by mechanisms similar to those in mammals.", "contents": "Migration of intraperitoneally injected thyroid cells in the Amazon molly, Poecilia formosa. We have previously reported the development of an extensive invasive growth of the thyroid gland of the gynogenetic teleost, Poecilia formosa (the Amazon molly), following i.p. injection of UV- or gamma-irradiated thyroid cells. This result was surprising by comparison with mammalian work, in which the thyroid is rarely the site for tumor metastases, but the anatomy of the circulation of fish is different from mammals, and in fish the gills and thyroid gland would be among the first tissues in which injected cells might be arrested. Techniques using a fluorescent dye, 125I membrane label, or [3H]thymidine label were used to follow the distribution of i.p. injected cells in the Amazon molly. Fish sampled as soon as 30 min after injection had some labeled cells dispersed in the connective tissue around the ventral aorta and in the bases of the gills, and by 1 to 4 hr large numbers of cells had moved into the thyroid region. A few cells still persisted there 200 hr later. Experiments on the distribution of heat-killed cells indicated that the initial distribution of the cells was largely governed by mechanical factors. Injected cells would appear to be disseminated in fish by mechanisms similar to those in mammals.", "PMID": 445474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7140", "title": "Gastrointestinal carcinogenesis in germ-free rats given N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in drinking water.", "content": "This study was designed to clarify the role of gut microflora in tumorigenesis by a comparison of tumor production between male germ-free and conventional Wistar rats given N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), 100 microgram/ml in drinking water. Ninety-one % of conventional MNNG-treated rats that died or were killed by Day 314 of the experiment developed tumors in the gastrointestinal tract, whereas only 17% of germ-free treated rats developed such tumors. In addition, large tumors, some 5 cm or more in diameter, were frequently observed in the conventional rats, whereas only small tumors 0.4 to 1.2 cm in diameter were present in the germ-free rats. Furthermore, multiple tumors including double tumors were often found in the conventional rats, while such tumors never appeared in the germ-free rats. The results suggest that gut microflora might exert a promoting influence on tumorigenesis by MNNG in the gastrointestinal tract. The promoting influence of the microflora in conventional rats might not be of a simple nature, since the influence of a variety of factors modified by the micorflora on tumorigenesis by MNNG p.o. is unavoidable.", "contents": "Gastrointestinal carcinogenesis in germ-free rats given N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in drinking water. This study was designed to clarify the role of gut microflora in tumorigenesis by a comparison of tumor production between male germ-free and conventional Wistar rats given N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), 100 microgram/ml in drinking water. Ninety-one % of conventional MNNG-treated rats that died or were killed by Day 314 of the experiment developed tumors in the gastrointestinal tract, whereas only 17% of germ-free treated rats developed such tumors. In addition, large tumors, some 5 cm or more in diameter, were frequently observed in the conventional rats, whereas only small tumors 0.4 to 1.2 cm in diameter were present in the germ-free rats. Furthermore, multiple tumors including double tumors were often found in the conventional rats, while such tumors never appeared in the germ-free rats. The results suggest that gut microflora might exert a promoting influence on tumorigenesis by MNNG in the gastrointestinal tract. The promoting influence of the microflora in conventional rats might not be of a simple nature, since the influence of a variety of factors modified by the micorflora on tumorigenesis by MNNG p.o. is unavoidable.", "PMID": 445476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7141", "title": "Calcium transport and translocation of adenine nucleotides in mitochondria from Morris hepatoma 3924A.", "content": "The interaction of Ca2+ with Morris hepatoma 3924A mitochondria and its effect on the adenine nucleotide translocation have been studied. The characteristics of the Ca2+ transport process in mitochondria from Morris hepatoma are not significantly different from those of normal liver mitochondria. The Km for Ca2+ is 2 to 3 microM, and the rate versus concentration curve exhibits hyperbolic kinetics. A lower activity of the adenine nucleotide translocation was found, probably due to the high endogenous Ca2+ content of Morris hepatoma mitochondria (123 +/- 15 nmol Ca2+ per mg protein). No further inhibition of the translocase activity was observed after isolated mitochondria had accumulated extra amounts of Ca2+. The total amount of adenine nucleotides in tumor mitochondria is one-half those present in control liver, and a significantly lower percentage of the pool is present as adenosine 5'-monophosphate.", "contents": "Calcium transport and translocation of adenine nucleotides in mitochondria from Morris hepatoma 3924A. The interaction of Ca2+ with Morris hepatoma 3924A mitochondria and its effect on the adenine nucleotide translocation have been studied. The characteristics of the Ca2+ transport process in mitochondria from Morris hepatoma are not significantly different from those of normal liver mitochondria. The Km for Ca2+ is 2 to 3 microM, and the rate versus concentration curve exhibits hyperbolic kinetics. A lower activity of the adenine nucleotide translocation was found, probably due to the high endogenous Ca2+ content of Morris hepatoma mitochondria (123 +/- 15 nmol Ca2+ per mg protein). No further inhibition of the translocase activity was observed after isolated mitochondria had accumulated extra amounts of Ca2+. The total amount of adenine nucleotides in tumor mitochondria is one-half those present in control liver, and a significantly lower percentage of the pool is present as adenosine 5'-monophosphate.", "PMID": 445477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7142", "title": "Potentiating effect of beta-aminopropionitrile on the DNA synthesis induced by isoproterenol.", "content": "Young mice chronically treated with beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) were subsequently given injections of graded doses of isoproterenol, and the response of various tissues to IPR in synthesizing DNA was analyzed. The results indicate that chronic administration of BAPN potentiates the effect of IPR for inducing DNA synthesis in the parotid, submandibular gland, kidney, and urinary bladder. The effect of BAPN was most pronounced in the submandibular gland. Namely, acinar cells in the submandibular gland normally respond less to IPR than do those in the parotid but respond more when mice have been treated with BAPN. It was suggested that the structural modification of collagen may counteract the blockage of events leading to DNA synthesis in epithelial cells in vivo.", "contents": "Potentiating effect of beta-aminopropionitrile on the DNA synthesis induced by isoproterenol. Young mice chronically treated with beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) were subsequently given injections of graded doses of isoproterenol, and the response of various tissues to IPR in synthesizing DNA was analyzed. The results indicate that chronic administration of BAPN potentiates the effect of IPR for inducing DNA synthesis in the parotid, submandibular gland, kidney, and urinary bladder. The effect of BAPN was most pronounced in the submandibular gland. Namely, acinar cells in the submandibular gland normally respond less to IPR than do those in the parotid but respond more when mice have been treated with BAPN. It was suggested that the structural modification of collagen may counteract the blockage of events leading to DNA synthesis in epithelial cells in vivo.", "PMID": 445478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7143", "title": "Comparative metabolism of 2-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]tetrahydro-2-H-1,3,2-oxazaphosphorine-2-oxide (cyclophosphamide) and its enantiomers in humans.", "content": "The comparative metabolism of the enantiomers of cyclo phosphamide and of the racemate has been studied in humans. Four patients were each given, sequentially, the racemate, the (+)-enantiomer, and its (-)-antipode. The plasma levels of parent drug and the urinary output (24 hr) of unchanged drug and of two enzymatically produced metabolites, 4-ketocyclophosphamide and carboxyphosphamide, were determined using mass spectrometry-stable isotope dilution. There was no significant difference between the three forms of cyclophosphamide with respect to plasma half-life (beta phase) or in the urinary outputs of the drug or of carboxyphosphamide. The output of 4-ketocyclophosphamide after administration of (+)-cyclophosphamide was significantly greater than that produced from the racemate. Cyclophosphamide recovered from the urine of patients given the racemate was either racemic or only slightly enriched in the (-)-enantiomer. The two enantiomers were almost equally bound to plasma protein. Based on these metabolic studies alone, there is little reason to predict that the enantiomers will differ from each other or from the racemate in their therapeutic effects in humans, but there are other factors, e.g., stereoselective uptake of the intermediary 4-hydroxylated metabolites by neoplastic cells, which could elicit such differences.", "contents": "Comparative metabolism of 2-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]tetrahydro-2-H-1,3,2-oxazaphosphorine-2-oxide (cyclophosphamide) and its enantiomers in humans. The comparative metabolism of the enantiomers of cyclo phosphamide and of the racemate has been studied in humans. Four patients were each given, sequentially, the racemate, the (+)-enantiomer, and its (-)-antipode. The plasma levels of parent drug and the urinary output (24 hr) of unchanged drug and of two enzymatically produced metabolites, 4-ketocyclophosphamide and carboxyphosphamide, were determined using mass spectrometry-stable isotope dilution. There was no significant difference between the three forms of cyclophosphamide with respect to plasma half-life (beta phase) or in the urinary outputs of the drug or of carboxyphosphamide. The output of 4-ketocyclophosphamide after administration of (+)-cyclophosphamide was significantly greater than that produced from the racemate. Cyclophosphamide recovered from the urine of patients given the racemate was either racemic or only slightly enriched in the (-)-enantiomer. The two enantiomers were almost equally bound to plasma protein. Based on these metabolic studies alone, there is little reason to predict that the enantiomers will differ from each other or from the racemate in their therapeutic effects in humans, but there are other factors, e.g., stereoselective uptake of the intermediary 4-hydroxylated metabolites by neoplastic cells, which could elicit such differences.", "PMID": 445480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7144", "title": "Characterization of rat hepatoma glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase and its relation to liver and fetal forms.", "content": "Glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase (EC 5.3.1.19) purified from various rat tissues by a procedure involving chromatography on diethylaminoethyl Sephadex and hydroxylapatite were characterized by means of isoelectric focusing. The non-hepatic isozyme, previously reported to be present in Yoshida sarcoma, has a pI of 4.1 and is distinguished from the hepatic isozyme, with a pI of 5.0. The pI 4.1 form is the major one in all of the fast-growing, transplantable hepatomas studied. Although not detectable in 19-day fetal liver or normal adult liver, the pI 4.1 form has been observed in the whole 12-day fetus and adult brain as almost the sole form of glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase.", "contents": "Characterization of rat hepatoma glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase and its relation to liver and fetal forms. Glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase (EC 5.3.1.19) purified from various rat tissues by a procedure involving chromatography on diethylaminoethyl Sephadex and hydroxylapatite were characterized by means of isoelectric focusing. The non-hepatic isozyme, previously reported to be present in Yoshida sarcoma, has a pI of 4.1 and is distinguished from the hepatic isozyme, with a pI of 5.0. The pI 4.1 form is the major one in all of the fast-growing, transplantable hepatomas studied. Although not detectable in 19-day fetal liver or normal adult liver, the pI 4.1 form has been observed in the whole 12-day fetus and adult brain as almost the sole form of glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase.", "PMID": 445481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7145", "title": "Glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase of regenerating rat liver.", "content": "When rats were subjected to partial hepatectomy, glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase (EC 5.3.1.19) of the remaining liver underwent alterations both in activity and in molecular form. To study the molecular alterations, glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase was purified from regenerating as well as control liver and was analyzed by isoelectric focusing. Although control liver exhibited only one form of glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase with a pI of 5.0, sequential and transient appearance of three other forms, with pI values of 4.3, 4.8, and 4.5, respectively, was observed for regeneration liver within 72 hr following partial hepatectomy. Laparotomy, on the other hand, induced in the liver only the pI 4.8 form, and injection of a mixture containing triiodothyronine, amino acids, glucagon, and heparin induced only the pI 4.3 and 4.5 forms. It therefore appears that the pI 4.3 and 4.5 forms, but not the pI 4.8 form, are associated with hepatic DNA synthesis. The pI 4.8 form is induced in the liver in response to surgical stress.", "contents": "Glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase of regenerating rat liver. When rats were subjected to partial hepatectomy, glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase (EC 5.3.1.19) of the remaining liver underwent alterations both in activity and in molecular form. To study the molecular alterations, glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase was purified from regenerating as well as control liver and was analyzed by isoelectric focusing. Although control liver exhibited only one form of glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase with a pI of 5.0, sequential and transient appearance of three other forms, with pI values of 4.3, 4.8, and 4.5, respectively, was observed for regeneration liver within 72 hr following partial hepatectomy. Laparotomy, on the other hand, induced in the liver only the pI 4.8 form, and injection of a mixture containing triiodothyronine, amino acids, glucagon, and heparin induced only the pI 4.3 and 4.5 forms. It therefore appears that the pI 4.3 and 4.5 forms, but not the pI 4.8 form, are associated with hepatic DNA synthesis. The pI 4.8 form is induced in the liver in response to surgical stress.", "PMID": 445482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7146", "title": "DNA strand scission in vivo and in vitro by auromomycin.", "content": "The mechanism of action of auromomycin, a new tumor-inhibitory antibiotic, was studied in a growing culture of mouse lymphoblastoma L5178Y cells and with isolated viral DNA. Auromomycin prevented growth of L5178Y cells completely and irreversibly at antibiotic concentrations higher than 0.03 microgram/ml. DNA synthesis was preferentially inhibited by the antibiotic, whereas RNA and protein syntheses were not significantly affected. In synchronous cultures of L5178Y cells, results indicated that limited auromomycin-induced inhibition of DNA synthesis may occur independently of a much stronger inhibition of mitosis. In a short incubation period, a marked strand scission in cellular DNA of auromomycin-treated L5178Y cells was observed by an analysis of alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation. In vitro, the antibiotic also induced strand breaks in linear duplex T-7 phage DNA and in the supercoiled circular duplex of SV40 DNA. 2-Mercaptoethanol neither enhanced nor was required for strand scission of isolated DNA by auromomycin. These data indicate that the mechanism of the antitumor activity of auromomycin is different from that of bleomycin, neocarzinostatin, or macromomycin.", "contents": "DNA strand scission in vivo and in vitro by auromomycin. The mechanism of action of auromomycin, a new tumor-inhibitory antibiotic, was studied in a growing culture of mouse lymphoblastoma L5178Y cells and with isolated viral DNA. Auromomycin prevented growth of L5178Y cells completely and irreversibly at antibiotic concentrations higher than 0.03 microgram/ml. DNA synthesis was preferentially inhibited by the antibiotic, whereas RNA and protein syntheses were not significantly affected. In synchronous cultures of L5178Y cells, results indicated that limited auromomycin-induced inhibition of DNA synthesis may occur independently of a much stronger inhibition of mitosis. In a short incubation period, a marked strand scission in cellular DNA of auromomycin-treated L5178Y cells was observed by an analysis of alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation. In vitro, the antibiotic also induced strand breaks in linear duplex T-7 phage DNA and in the supercoiled circular duplex of SV40 DNA. 2-Mercaptoethanol neither enhanced nor was required for strand scission of isolated DNA by auromomycin. These data indicate that the mechanism of the antitumor activity of auromomycin is different from that of bleomycin, neocarzinostatin, or macromomycin.", "PMID": 445483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7147", "title": "Age-related decrease of ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis in human peripheral leukocytes.", "content": "The capacity for ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis, studied in peripheral leukocytes from 58 healthy subjects 13 to 94 years old, was found to vary greatly between individuals. A negative, statistically significant correlation was obtained between age and this synthesis, indicating a decrease in repair capacity with age. An age-related decrease in DNA repair may increase the susceptibility of cells to agents causing DNA damage, i.e. carcinogens and certain cytostatic drugs.", "contents": "Age-related decrease of ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis in human peripheral leukocytes. The capacity for ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis, studied in peripheral leukocytes from 58 healthy subjects 13 to 94 years old, was found to vary greatly between individuals. A negative, statistically significant correlation was obtained between age and this synthesis, indicating a decrease in repair capacity with age. An age-related decrease in DNA repair may increase the susceptibility of cells to agents causing DNA damage, i.e. carcinogens and certain cytostatic drugs.", "PMID": 445484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7148", "title": "Glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans of normal and tumoral cartilages of humans and rats.", "content": "Differences in the glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans synthesized by \"young,\" \"adult,\" and tumoral chondrocytes are reported. Young cartilage and human chondrosarcoma contain chondroitin 4- and 6-sulfates, whereas adult human cartilage contains almost exclusively chondroitin 6-sulfate. High keratan sulfate content is reported in adult cartilage, whereas it is almost absent in young and tumoral cartilages. The electrophoretic pattern and keratan sulfate content in these proteoglycans from adult cartilage are clearly distinct from those of the young and tumoral cartilages. The high molecular weight is the distinguishing property of the glycosaminoglycan synthesized by tumoral chondrocytes.", "contents": "Glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans of normal and tumoral cartilages of humans and rats. Differences in the glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans synthesized by \"young,\" \"adult,\" and tumoral chondrocytes are reported. Young cartilage and human chondrosarcoma contain chondroitin 4- and 6-sulfates, whereas adult human cartilage contains almost exclusively chondroitin 6-sulfate. High keratan sulfate content is reported in adult cartilage, whereas it is almost absent in young and tumoral cartilages. The electrophoretic pattern and keratan sulfate content in these proteoglycans from adult cartilage are clearly distinct from those of the young and tumoral cartilages. The high molecular weight is the distinguishing property of the glycosaminoglycan synthesized by tumoral chondrocytes.", "PMID": 445485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7149", "title": "Immunotherapeutic response of concanavalin A-bound L1210 vaccine enhanced by a streptococcal immunopotentiator, OK-432.", "content": "Immunotherapeutic response to concanavalin A (Con A)-bound L1210 murine leukemic vaccine and immunopotentiators was examined in histocompatible animals bearing a small burden L1210 leukemic cells. When combined with Con A-bound vaccine, a streptococcal immunopotentiator, OK-432 (NSC B116209), prepared from Streptococcus pyogenes, was potent in antitumor therapy and resulted in a number of cured animals. Administration of either Con-A-bound vaccine or OK-432 alone did not produce any beneficial effect on leukemic animals. The enhanced therapeutic response was dependent on the effectiveness of the dose and timing of the administration of OK-432 when given after vaccination. Combined modality of Con A-bound L1210 vaccine and OK-432 was not effective in animals bearing P388 murine leukemic cells, which indicates specificity of therapeutic response. In enhancing the therapeutic potency of Con A-bound leukemia vaccine, pyran copolymer (NSC 46015) was as effective as OK-432, whereas Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin and Corynebacterium parvum were far less effective. When combined with OK-432, therapeutic response to Con A-bound L1210 vaccine was much greater than response to glutaraldehyde-, mitomycin C-, or Vibrio cholerae neuraminidase-treated L1210 vaccine.", "contents": "Immunotherapeutic response of concanavalin A-bound L1210 vaccine enhanced by a streptococcal immunopotentiator, OK-432. Immunotherapeutic response to concanavalin A (Con A)-bound L1210 murine leukemic vaccine and immunopotentiators was examined in histocompatible animals bearing a small burden L1210 leukemic cells. When combined with Con A-bound vaccine, a streptococcal immunopotentiator, OK-432 (NSC B116209), prepared from Streptococcus pyogenes, was potent in antitumor therapy and resulted in a number of cured animals. Administration of either Con-A-bound vaccine or OK-432 alone did not produce any beneficial effect on leukemic animals. The enhanced therapeutic response was dependent on the effectiveness of the dose and timing of the administration of OK-432 when given after vaccination. Combined modality of Con A-bound L1210 vaccine and OK-432 was not effective in animals bearing P388 murine leukemic cells, which indicates specificity of therapeutic response. In enhancing the therapeutic potency of Con A-bound leukemia vaccine, pyran copolymer (NSC 46015) was as effective as OK-432, whereas Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin and Corynebacterium parvum were far less effective. When combined with OK-432, therapeutic response to Con A-bound L1210 vaccine was much greater than response to glutaraldehyde-, mitomycin C-, or Vibrio cholerae neuraminidase-treated L1210 vaccine.", "PMID": 445486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7150", "title": "Cancer overview.", "content": "Cancer is a very common group of diseases. There are 700,000 cases of the disease reported each year, and about 350,000 persons die of these diseases. There is extensive literature and documentation relative to alcohol as a probable factor in the development of head, neck, and esophageal cancers among others. However, there is little in the literature relative to the interrelationship of alcohol and cancer in the area of cancer treatment. Dignity of the dying patient and his family is maintained, and home care is a vital component. While alcohol use is not generally written about, it is used as desired by the patient. A \"Brompton's-type cocktail,\" a mixture of morphine, cocaine, and alcohol, forms a basis of pain control in English and many United States' hospices. One purpose in today's conference is to look at another lifestyle factor, alcohol, to determine its role alone or in conjunction with other factors in the causation of cancer. Are there high risk groups which need attention in alcohol cancer prevention programs?", "contents": "Cancer overview. Cancer is a very common group of diseases. There are 700,000 cases of the disease reported each year, and about 350,000 persons die of these diseases. There is extensive literature and documentation relative to alcohol as a probable factor in the development of head, neck, and esophageal cancers among others. However, there is little in the literature relative to the interrelationship of alcohol and cancer in the area of cancer treatment. Dignity of the dying patient and his family is maintained, and home care is a vital component. While alcohol use is not generally written about, it is used as desired by the patient. A \"Brompton's-type cocktail,\" a mixture of morphine, cocaine, and alcohol, forms a basis of pain control in English and many United States' hospices. One purpose in today's conference is to look at another lifestyle factor, alcohol, to determine its role alone or in conjunction with other factors in the causation of cancer. Are there high risk groups which need attention in alcohol cancer prevention programs?", "PMID": 445487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7151", "title": "The family physician and confrontation in alcoholism.", "content": "Identification of alcoholism may be crucial for ensuring the most appropriate treatment for patients suffering with cancer. In this setting, the family physician can best provide the leadership in coordinating the critical resources necessary for successful treatment by utilizing the family, the minister, the employer, and most important, alcoholism counselors and Alcoholics Anonymous. To avoid a realistic assessment of alcoholism in a cancer patient will only perpetuate individual sorrow and suffering. The physician may win the battle against cancer, but the war can be lost by the self-destruction resulting from alcoholism.", "contents": "The family physician and confrontation in alcoholism. Identification of alcoholism may be crucial for ensuring the most appropriate treatment for patients suffering with cancer. In this setting, the family physician can best provide the leadership in coordinating the critical resources necessary for successful treatment by utilizing the family, the minister, the employer, and most important, alcoholism counselors and Alcoholics Anonymous. To avoid a realistic assessment of alcoholism in a cancer patient will only perpetuate individual sorrow and suffering. The physician may win the battle against cancer, but the war can be lost by the self-destruction resulting from alcoholism.", "PMID": 445488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7152", "title": "The disease of alcoholism.", "content": "A pharmacological view of narcotic addiction and alcoholism, or sedative addiction, serves as a basis for the further examination of these complex illnesses. The disease called alcoholism (sedativism) consists, however, of much more than just a chronic or periodic addiction to a sedative drug. The urgent need to understand the psychological and societal parameters of this illness is underscored by the likelihood that alcoholism represents the major factor in the cause of death of young adults ( less than 45 years) in the United States today. Its further role as a carcinogen is only recently achieving adequate examination.", "contents": "The disease of alcoholism. A pharmacological view of narcotic addiction and alcoholism, or sedative addiction, serves as a basis for the further examination of these complex illnesses. The disease called alcoholism (sedativism) consists, however, of much more than just a chronic or periodic addiction to a sedative drug. The urgent need to understand the psychological and societal parameters of this illness is underscored by the likelihood that alcoholism represents the major factor in the cause of death of young adults ( less than 45 years) in the United States today. Its further role as a carcinogen is only recently achieving adequate examination.", "PMID": 445489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7153", "title": "Epidemiology of alcohol and cancer.", "content": "There is still insufficient knowledge of the distribution of drinking habits in human populations, and more descriptive surveys are needed. Both prospective and retrospective epidemiological studies indicate that alcohol consumption is a cancer hazard. Prospective studies on excessive drinkers have shown an increased risk for cancer of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, and lung. Retrospective studies have confirmed this excess risk. For cancers of the buccal cavity, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus, the effect of drinking has been shown to be associated with the effect of smoking. In the case of esophageal cancer, these two effects are independent, and the observations made are consistent with a multiplicative model. Primary liver cancer is also associated with alcohol consumption, probably by a less direct action; the importance of the impact of alcohol on primary liver cancer is probably underestimated. Animal experiments have not shown that ethanol alone has a carcinogenic effect, and the mechanisms by which alcoholic beverages act on humans remain unknown. The proportion of cancer cases at sites known to be associated with alcohol consumption is approximately 8% in most population groups in the United States. This indicates that a sizeable proportion of cancers is potentially preventable if appropriate action is taken.", "contents": "Epidemiology of alcohol and cancer. There is still insufficient knowledge of the distribution of drinking habits in human populations, and more descriptive surveys are needed. Both prospective and retrospective epidemiological studies indicate that alcohol consumption is a cancer hazard. Prospective studies on excessive drinkers have shown an increased risk for cancer of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, and lung. Retrospective studies have confirmed this excess risk. For cancers of the buccal cavity, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus, the effect of drinking has been shown to be associated with the effect of smoking. In the case of esophageal cancer, these two effects are independent, and the observations made are consistent with a multiplicative model. Primary liver cancer is also associated with alcohol consumption, probably by a less direct action; the importance of the impact of alcohol on primary liver cancer is probably underestimated. Animal experiments have not shown that ethanol alone has a carcinogenic effect, and the mechanisms by which alcoholic beverages act on humans remain unknown. The proportion of cancer cases at sites known to be associated with alcohol consumption is approximately 8% in most population groups in the United States. This indicates that a sizeable proportion of cancers is potentially preventable if appropriate action is taken.", "PMID": 445490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7154", "title": "Epidemiological opportunities in alcohol-related cancer.", "content": "Alcohol combined with tobacco smoking is an established risk factor for cancers of the oropharynx, esophagus, and larynx. It should be possible to clarify further the role of alcohol itself, the modifying effects of tobacco, dose-response relationships, and nutritional cofactors. Studies are also needed to delineate the steps by which alcohol consumption leads to liver cancer and to resolve the suggestion that certain beverages may predispose to other cancers including those of the pancreas and rectum. Epidemiological investigations should be combined with experimental work to identify hazardous fractions in alcoholic beverages and to delineate the mechanisms by which alcohol promotes carcinogenesis. Epidemiologists and biometricians may also contribute toward the development of programs aimed at primary prevention and early detection of cancers related to alcohol and tobacco. Incorporation of research questions into data collection systems deserves serious questions into data collection systems deserves serious consideration as a means of obtaining additional valuable information for etiological studies.", "contents": "Epidemiological opportunities in alcohol-related cancer. Alcohol combined with tobacco smoking is an established risk factor for cancers of the oropharynx, esophagus, and larynx. It should be possible to clarify further the role of alcohol itself, the modifying effects of tobacco, dose-response relationships, and nutritional cofactors. Studies are also needed to delineate the steps by which alcohol consumption leads to liver cancer and to resolve the suggestion that certain beverages may predispose to other cancers including those of the pancreas and rectum. Epidemiological investigations should be combined with experimental work to identify hazardous fractions in alcoholic beverages and to delineate the mechanisms by which alcohol promotes carcinogenesis. Epidemiologists and biometricians may also contribute toward the development of programs aimed at primary prevention and early detection of cancers related to alcohol and tobacco. Incorporation of research questions into data collection systems deserves serious questions into data collection systems deserves serious consideration as a means of obtaining additional valuable information for etiological studies.", "PMID": 445491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7155", "title": "Rehabilitation and continuing care of cancer patients.", "content": "Health professionals are responsible for helping cancer patients and their families readapt to society. Frequently, coping with alcoholism is an integral facet of the rehabilitative process, and in this respect a patient's family often presents more of a problem than does the patient himself. Physicians have shown a lack of knowledge in detecting and dealing with the alcohol problems of their patients. Health professionals involved in the management of patients with cancer must learn to recognize alcoholism to ensure that the problem is referred to an organization or individual who will cope with it adequately. Volunteer groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as the clergy, some psychiatrists, psychologists, and sociologists, have demonstrated expertise in dealing with alcoholism.", "contents": "Rehabilitation and continuing care of cancer patients. Health professionals are responsible for helping cancer patients and their families readapt to society. Frequently, coping with alcoholism is an integral facet of the rehabilitative process, and in this respect a patient's family often presents more of a problem than does the patient himself. Physicians have shown a lack of knowledge in detecting and dealing with the alcohol problems of their patients. Health professionals involved in the management of patients with cancer must learn to recognize alcoholism to ensure that the problem is referred to an organization or individual who will cope with it adequately. Volunteer groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as the clergy, some psychiatrists, psychologists, and sociologists, have demonstrated expertise in dealing with alcoholism.", "PMID": 445492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7156", "title": "Continuing care of the cancer patient as a social engineering problem.", "content": "Care of the cancer patient has become fractionated toward maintaining the physiological integrity of the patient's life support systems, e.g., the hematopoietic or neurological systems. The concept of total continuing care for the cancer patient is illustrated in this description of a pilot hospice project in a community medical center. The project also illustrates the concept of team support by the health care staff and volunteers. The total continuing care unit described provides support and care which makes living not just possible, but worthwhile, for cancer patients.", "contents": "Continuing care of the cancer patient as a social engineering problem. Care of the cancer patient has become fractionated toward maintaining the physiological integrity of the patient's life support systems, e.g., the hematopoietic or neurological systems. The concept of total continuing care for the cancer patient is illustrated in this description of a pilot hospice project in a community medical center. The project also illustrates the concept of team support by the health care staff and volunteers. The total continuing care unit described provides support and care which makes living not just possible, but worthwhile, for cancer patients.", "PMID": 445493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7157", "title": "Possible relationships of alcohol in membranes to cancer.", "content": "Ethanol can be used as a chemical tool to alter membrane fluidity or composition, or both, and to study the effects on induction, growth, spread, or treatment of cancers. Ethanol rapidly equilibrates with total body water and enters all cell membranes. Ethanol molecules are intercalated between the lipids of the bilayer membranes. This expands membranes and increases their fluidity, which in turn affects cell agglutination, phagocytosis, membrane transport, membrane enzyme activities, and many other membrane functions. After 3 to 5 days of continuous ethanol administration, the original membrane fluidity is restored by the incorporation of \"stiffening\" lipids, such as cholesterol, into the bilayer and by the increase of the chain length and saturation of fatty acids. The desired membrane effects (increased fluidity or altered membrane composition) can be obtained by adjusting time-dose relationships of ethanol administration. There may be an important role of moderate alcohol consumption in cancer biology that is not presently recognized by epidemiological studies because both cancers and moderate alcohol consumption are very prevalent in the general adult population. Moderate, social alcohol use could potentially either suppress or enhance the induction, growth, spread, or therapy of cancers. Such potential roles of alcohol in cancer biology could easily be tested in animals by incorporating the feeding of alcohol-containing diets into experiments that follow standard cancer protocols.", "contents": "Possible relationships of alcohol in membranes to cancer. Ethanol can be used as a chemical tool to alter membrane fluidity or composition, or both, and to study the effects on induction, growth, spread, or treatment of cancers. Ethanol rapidly equilibrates with total body water and enters all cell membranes. Ethanol molecules are intercalated between the lipids of the bilayer membranes. This expands membranes and increases their fluidity, which in turn affects cell agglutination, phagocytosis, membrane transport, membrane enzyme activities, and many other membrane functions. After 3 to 5 days of continuous ethanol administration, the original membrane fluidity is restored by the incorporation of \"stiffening\" lipids, such as cholesterol, into the bilayer and by the increase of the chain length and saturation of fatty acids. The desired membrane effects (increased fluidity or altered membrane composition) can be obtained by adjusting time-dose relationships of ethanol administration. There may be an important role of moderate alcohol consumption in cancer biology that is not presently recognized by epidemiological studies because both cancers and moderate alcohol consumption are very prevalent in the general adult population. Moderate, social alcohol use could potentially either suppress or enhance the induction, growth, spread, or therapy of cancers. Such potential roles of alcohol in cancer biology could easily be tested in animals by incorporating the feeding of alcohol-containing diets into experiments that follow standard cancer protocols.", "PMID": 445494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7158", "title": "Phase II study of adriamycin, 5-fluorouracil, levamisole, and irradiation in carcinoma of the bladder.", "content": "Since July 1976, 19 patients with carcinoma of the bladder have been treated with adriamycin, 5-fluorouracil, and levamisole combined with radiotherapy (60 Gy [6000 radsA1/24 fractions/6 weeks). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were initiated simultaneously, with the entire treatment lasting 7--8 months. Three months after the completion of radiotherapy, 14 of the 18 patients in whom cystoscopy was performed were found to be in complete remission. Overall, 17 of the 19 patients have responded to the treatment and 15 patients have at some time shown complete remission. The toxic effects seen were myelosuppression, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of weight, and alopecia. Thirteen patients received the entire treatment as outpatients while six patients had to be hospitalized for a period of 8--14 days because of severe side effects, especially in Weeks 3--8. Serious complications such as bowel perforation were not seen, but one patient died with septicemia as a result of agranulocytosis, which was attributed to the treatment with levamisole.", "contents": "Phase II study of adriamycin, 5-fluorouracil, levamisole, and irradiation in carcinoma of the bladder. Since July 1976, 19 patients with carcinoma of the bladder have been treated with adriamycin, 5-fluorouracil, and levamisole combined with radiotherapy (60 Gy [6000 radsA1/24 fractions/6 weeks). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were initiated simultaneously, with the entire treatment lasting 7--8 months. Three months after the completion of radiotherapy, 14 of the 18 patients in whom cystoscopy was performed were found to be in complete remission. Overall, 17 of the 19 patients have responded to the treatment and 15 patients have at some time shown complete remission. The toxic effects seen were myelosuppression, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of weight, and alopecia. Thirteen patients received the entire treatment as outpatients while six patients had to be hospitalized for a period of 8--14 days because of severe side effects, especially in Weeks 3--8. Serious complications such as bowel perforation were not seen, but one patient died with septicemia as a result of agranulocytosis, which was attributed to the treatment with levamisole.", "PMID": 445495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7159", "title": "Phase II study of 5-fluorouracil, methyl-CCNU, and daunorubicin in colorectal cancer: a Cancer and Leukemia Group B study.", "content": "The three-drug combination of 5-fluorouracil, methyl-CCNU, and daunorubicin was evaluated in 38 patients with unresectable or metastatic carcinoma of the colon. There were five partial responses and one complete response for an overall response rate of 16%. Although toxicity was tolerable, daunorubicin failed to add to the 5-fluorouracil and methyl-CCNU combination.", "contents": "Phase II study of 5-fluorouracil, methyl-CCNU, and daunorubicin in colorectal cancer: a Cancer and Leukemia Group B study. The three-drug combination of 5-fluorouracil, methyl-CCNU, and daunorubicin was evaluated in 38 patients with unresectable or metastatic carcinoma of the colon. There were five partial responses and one complete response for an overall response rate of 16%. Although toxicity was tolerable, daunorubicin failed to add to the 5-fluorouracil and methyl-CCNU combination.", "PMID": 445497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7160", "title": "Role of cytoreductive surgical treatment in the management of advanced ovarian cancer.", "content": "Twenty-eight abdominal operations were performed on 26 consecutive patients with stage III and IV ovarian carcinoma over a 3-year period. The goal of each operation was to excise all tumors greater than 1 cm in diameter. This goal was achieved in 12 of 15 primary operations, in seven of nine operations after induction chemotherapy, and in three of four operations performed for tumor recurrence. There were two major complications but no postoperative deaths. Analysis of survival and disease status indicated that patients having operations followed by chemotherapy fared the best. Analysis of prognostic variables suggested that the administration of combination chemotherapy was the most important determinant of survival once the surgical goal had been accomplished. In this latter group, all nine patients who were evaluable by laparoscopy had responded to adriamycin-cyclophosphamide and eight of the nine had complete responses.", "contents": "Role of cytoreductive surgical treatment in the management of advanced ovarian cancer. Twenty-eight abdominal operations were performed on 26 consecutive patients with stage III and IV ovarian carcinoma over a 3-year period. The goal of each operation was to excise all tumors greater than 1 cm in diameter. This goal was achieved in 12 of 15 primary operations, in seven of nine operations after induction chemotherapy, and in three of four operations performed for tumor recurrence. There were two major complications but no postoperative deaths. Analysis of survival and disease status indicated that patients having operations followed by chemotherapy fared the best. Analysis of prognostic variables suggested that the administration of combination chemotherapy was the most important determinant of survival once the surgical goal had been accomplished. In this latter group, all nine patients who were evaluable by laparoscopy had responded to adriamycin-cyclophosphamide and eight of the nine had complete responses.", "PMID": 445502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7161", "title": "Different chemotherapeutic sensitivities and host factors affecting prognosis in advanced ovarian carcinoma versus minimal residual disease.", "content": "Treatment of patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma (stages IIIB and IV) using either cyclophosphamide alone (1 g/m2) or cyclophosphamide (500 mg/m2) plus adriamycin (40 mg/m2) by iv injection every 3 weeks each produced partial regression in approximately one third of the patients. Survival curves and time-to-progression curves for the two regimens were nearly identical in these patients with advanced disease. These same regimens produced different results when used monthly in patients who had minimal residual disease (stages II and IIIA). In patients with minimal residual disease the therapeutic index of the combination regimen was superior to that of cyclophosphamide alone. Prognosis was better overall among patients with minimal residual disease than among patients with advanced disease. Within the minimal-disease group grossly complete excision of tumor prior to chemotherapy was associated with still better prognosis. Among patients with advanced disease, prognosis was significantly better for older patients despite their generally less favorable performance scores. Much of this prognostic superiority appeared to be related to menopausal status and presumably to the depletion of endogenous estrogens in the older patients.", "contents": "Different chemotherapeutic sensitivities and host factors affecting prognosis in advanced ovarian carcinoma versus minimal residual disease. Treatment of patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma (stages IIIB and IV) using either cyclophosphamide alone (1 g/m2) or cyclophosphamide (500 mg/m2) plus adriamycin (40 mg/m2) by iv injection every 3 weeks each produced partial regression in approximately one third of the patients. Survival curves and time-to-progression curves for the two regimens were nearly identical in these patients with advanced disease. These same regimens produced different results when used monthly in patients who had minimal residual disease (stages II and IIIA). In patients with minimal residual disease the therapeutic index of the combination regimen was superior to that of cyclophosphamide alone. Prognosis was better overall among patients with minimal residual disease than among patients with advanced disease. Within the minimal-disease group grossly complete excision of tumor prior to chemotherapy was associated with still better prognosis. Among patients with advanced disease, prognosis was significantly better for older patients despite their generally less favorable performance scores. Much of this prognostic superiority appeared to be related to menopausal status and presumably to the depletion of endogenous estrogens in the older patients.", "PMID": 445503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7162", "title": "Chemotherapy for murine ovarian cancer: a rationale for ip therapy with adriamycin.", "content": "The metastatic spread of a trnasplantable murine ovarian cancer is similar to the spread of ovarian cancer in patients with advanced disease, making it a useful model to investigate novel experimental therapies. The ip inoculation of 10(6) tumor cells into C3HeB/FeJ mice leads to the formation of ascites, sub-diaphragmatic tumor deposits, intra-abdominal tumors, and death within 25 days. Adriamycin (ADR) was found to be an active agent against this murine ovarian cancer. The effects of ADR were dependent upon the route of administration. A single ip LD10 dose of ADR (5 mg/kg) administered 2 days after inoculation with 10(6) tumor cells produced long-term survival (greater than 60 days) in 70% of the mice. An iv LD10 dose had no effect on survival. The survival advantage of ip ADR (compared to the iv route) was found to be related to: (a) a greater suppression of DNA synthesis in the tumor; (b) a rapid penetration of ADR into the nuclei of ascites tumor cells and into sub-diaphragmatic tumor deposits; and (c) significantly higher levels of ADR in tumor cells following ip administration. The ip route may also be less cardiotoxic since the peak levels after an iv dose were three times greater than after an equal ip dose. If local toxicity does not prove to be a major problem, then ip ADR may be a useful mode of therapy in patients with intra-abdominal tumors.", "contents": "Chemotherapy for murine ovarian cancer: a rationale for ip therapy with adriamycin. The metastatic spread of a trnasplantable murine ovarian cancer is similar to the spread of ovarian cancer in patients with advanced disease, making it a useful model to investigate novel experimental therapies. The ip inoculation of 10(6) tumor cells into C3HeB/FeJ mice leads to the formation of ascites, sub-diaphragmatic tumor deposits, intra-abdominal tumors, and death within 25 days. Adriamycin (ADR) was found to be an active agent against this murine ovarian cancer. The effects of ADR were dependent upon the route of administration. A single ip LD10 dose of ADR (5 mg/kg) administered 2 days after inoculation with 10(6) tumor cells produced long-term survival (greater than 60 days) in 70% of the mice. An iv LD10 dose had no effect on survival. The survival advantage of ip ADR (compared to the iv route) was found to be related to: (a) a greater suppression of DNA synthesis in the tumor; (b) a rapid penetration of ADR into the nuclei of ascites tumor cells and into sub-diaphragmatic tumor deposits; and (c) significantly higher levels of ADR in tumor cells following ip administration. The ip route may also be less cardiotoxic since the peak levels after an iv dose were three times greater than after an equal ip dose. If local toxicity does not prove to be a major problem, then ip ADR may be a useful mode of therapy in patients with intra-abdominal tumors.", "PMID": 445504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7163", "title": "Chemoimmunotherapy in the management of primary stage III ovarian cancer: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study.", "content": "The effectiveness of chemoimmunotherapy was evaluated in 45 previously untreated stage III ovarian cancer patients. Response rate, progression-free interval, and survival were considerably better than in a similar group of 63 patients treated with a single alkylating agent alone.", "contents": "Chemoimmunotherapy in the management of primary stage III ovarian cancer: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study. The effectiveness of chemoimmunotherapy was evaluated in 45 previously untreated stage III ovarian cancer patients. Response rate, progression-free interval, and survival were considerably better than in a similar group of 63 patients treated with a single alkylating agent alone.", "PMID": 445505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7164", "title": "Phase II trial of dianhydrogalactitol in metastatic malignant melanoma: a Southwest Oncology Group study.", "content": "Dianhydrogalactitol given iv in a schedule of 30 mg/m2/day for 5 consecutive days every 4 weeks was administered to 27 patients with metastatic malignant melanoma. All patients had received extensive prior therapy including chemotherapy and had progressive disease at the start of the study. Of 24 patients evaluable for response, 21 demonstrated progressive disease and three had stable disease for periods of from 4 to 11 months. No objective responses were observed. Two of the remaining three patients died 6 and 10 days after entry in the study, while the third refused to return after one drug course. Adverse effects included myelosuppression in eight patients, nausea and vomiting in five patients, and alopecia in one patient. Dianhydrogalactitol is considered to be insignificantly active in the secondary treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma at the dose and schedule studied.", "contents": "Phase II trial of dianhydrogalactitol in metastatic malignant melanoma: a Southwest Oncology Group study. Dianhydrogalactitol given iv in a schedule of 30 mg/m2/day for 5 consecutive days every 4 weeks was administered to 27 patients with metastatic malignant melanoma. All patients had received extensive prior therapy including chemotherapy and had progressive disease at the start of the study. Of 24 patients evaluable for response, 21 demonstrated progressive disease and three had stable disease for periods of from 4 to 11 months. No objective responses were observed. Two of the remaining three patients died 6 and 10 days after entry in the study, while the third refused to return after one drug course. Adverse effects included myelosuppression in eight patients, nausea and vomiting in five patients, and alopecia in one patient. Dianhydrogalactitol is considered to be insignificantly active in the secondary treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma at the dose and schedule studied.", "PMID": 445506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7165", "title": "Experimental skin necrosis produced by adriamycin.", "content": "Skin ulceration caused by extravasation of Adriamycin follows a severely protracted course accompanied by considerable morbidity. To develop an animal model of Adriamycin ulceration, we compared intradermal injection of Adriamycin to injection beneath the panniculus carnosus with varying drug volumes and concentrations. Injections beneath the rat panniculus carnosus caused only irregular ulcerative lesions. Intradermal injection produced predictable, uniform skin necrosis and ulceration. Both increasing volume and increasing concentration of Adriamycin caused proportionate increases in skin ulcer size and in time required for healing. A critical concentration range for Adriamycin necrosis is 0.010--0.020 mg/ml, suggesting that the drug would have to be greatly diluted to reduce clinical skin ulceration. Adriamycin-induced skin necrosis heals at a slower rate than surgically created skin defects of similar size, indicating a reduced rate of wound contraction. Removal of the necrotic skin allows faster healing, although still slower than normal, due to removal of splinting effect. Histology shows early skin necrosis, with acute inflammation developing after 1 week. Epidermal hypertrophy is present at the edges of the necrosis. The small vessels remain patent. Multiple small vesicles of unknown etiology are seen in the necrotic dermis.", "contents": "Experimental skin necrosis produced by adriamycin. Skin ulceration caused by extravasation of Adriamycin follows a severely protracted course accompanied by considerable morbidity. To develop an animal model of Adriamycin ulceration, we compared intradermal injection of Adriamycin to injection beneath the panniculus carnosus with varying drug volumes and concentrations. Injections beneath the rat panniculus carnosus caused only irregular ulcerative lesions. Intradermal injection produced predictable, uniform skin necrosis and ulceration. Both increasing volume and increasing concentration of Adriamycin caused proportionate increases in skin ulcer size and in time required for healing. A critical concentration range for Adriamycin necrosis is 0.010--0.020 mg/ml, suggesting that the drug would have to be greatly diluted to reduce clinical skin ulceration. Adriamycin-induced skin necrosis heals at a slower rate than surgically created skin defects of similar size, indicating a reduced rate of wound contraction. Removal of the necrotic skin allows faster healing, although still slower than normal, due to removal of splinting effect. Histology shows early skin necrosis, with acute inflammation developing after 1 week. Epidermal hypertrophy is present at the edges of the necrosis. The small vessels remain patent. Multiple small vesicles of unknown etiology are seen in the necrotic dermis.", "PMID": 445507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7166", "title": "Exposure to chemicals, physical agents, and biologic agents in mycosis fungoides and the S\u00e9zary syndrome.", "content": "The history of occupational, environmental, and/or iatrogenic exposure to potential carcinogenic agents was obtained at the time of onset of skin disease in 43 of 44 patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides and the S\u00e9zary syndrome) entering a National Cancer Institute therapeutic trial. A history of multiple exposures to these agents was common, the two most frequent being chemicals (91% of patients) and drugs (86%). Mean duration of expsosure was 13 years for chemicals and 18 years for drugs. The most common chemicals were air pollutants (39%), pesticides (36%), solvents and vapors (30%), and detergents and disinfectants (14%). Increased severity of disease was seen with increaed duration of chemical exposure in stage V cutaneous T-cell lymphomas only. The most frequent drugs besides tobacco (86%) were analgesics (20%), tranquilizers (18%), and thiazides (14%). Second cancers occurred in four patients, including two renal cell carcinomas, and a family history of cancer was present in 11. Fourteen of 22 patients questioned had recurrent herpes simplex. Patients with chronic skin disease who have long-term exposure to combinations of chemicals, physical agents, and biologic agents, are heavy smokers, or have recurrent herpes simplex appear to be prime candidates for developing mycosis fungoides or the S\u00e9zary syndrome.", "contents": "Exposure to chemicals, physical agents, and biologic agents in mycosis fungoides and the S\u00e9zary syndrome. The history of occupational, environmental, and/or iatrogenic exposure to potential carcinogenic agents was obtained at the time of onset of skin disease in 43 of 44 patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides and the S\u00e9zary syndrome) entering a National Cancer Institute therapeutic trial. A history of multiple exposures to these agents was common, the two most frequent being chemicals (91% of patients) and drugs (86%). Mean duration of expsosure was 13 years for chemicals and 18 years for drugs. The most common chemicals were air pollutants (39%), pesticides (36%), solvents and vapors (30%), and detergents and disinfectants (14%). Increased severity of disease was seen with increaed duration of chemical exposure in stage V cutaneous T-cell lymphomas only. The most frequent drugs besides tobacco (86%) were analgesics (20%), tranquilizers (18%), and thiazides (14%). Second cancers occurred in four patients, including two renal cell carcinomas, and a family history of cancer was present in 11. Fourteen of 22 patients questioned had recurrent herpes simplex. Patients with chronic skin disease who have long-term exposure to combinations of chemicals, physical agents, and biologic agents, are heavy smokers, or have recurrent herpes simplex appear to be prime candidates for developing mycosis fungoides or the S\u00e9zary syndrome.", "PMID": 445514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7167", "title": "Mycosis fungoides: epidemiologic observations.", "content": "An analysis of cases from a multi-hospital, pathologically verified clinical series and of deaths from US mortality statistics available at the county level for 1950--1975 (excluding 1972) was made in order to obtain information on the etiology of mycosis fungoides (MF). Despite the absence of an appropriate comparison group, the cases seemed to have a high frequency of antecedent allergies, fungal and viral skin infections, sun sensitivity, familial aggregation of lymphoma and leukemia, and employment in a manufacturing occupation (especially petrochemical, textile, metal, and machinery industries). The mortality survey revealed a predominance among males, nonwhites, and residents of the northeastern US, the latter due partly to an association between MF mortality and population size. The influence of occupational exposures was suggested by the excessive MF mortality rates in counties where petroleum, rubber, primary and fabricated metal, machinery, and printing industries were located.", "contents": "Mycosis fungoides: epidemiologic observations. An analysis of cases from a multi-hospital, pathologically verified clinical series and of deaths from US mortality statistics available at the county level for 1950--1975 (excluding 1972) was made in order to obtain information on the etiology of mycosis fungoides (MF). Despite the absence of an appropriate comparison group, the cases seemed to have a high frequency of antecedent allergies, fungal and viral skin infections, sun sensitivity, familial aggregation of lymphoma and leukemia, and employment in a manufacturing occupation (especially petrochemical, textile, metal, and machinery industries). The mortality survey revealed a predominance among males, nonwhites, and residents of the northeastern US, the latter due partly to an association between MF mortality and population size. The influence of occupational exposures was suggested by the excessive MF mortality rates in counties where petroleum, rubber, primary and fabricated metal, machinery, and printing industries were located.", "PMID": 445515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7168", "title": "Methoxsalen photochemotherapy for mycosis fungoides.", "content": "Methoxsalen photochemotherapy (PUVA; psoralen plus ultraviolet light) is effective in the treatment of mycosis fungoides (MF). The mechanism of this beneficial effect is unknown but probably involves covalent photo-binding of methoxsalen molecules to pyrimidine bases in DNA at the cellular level and impaired T-cell function or survival at the tissue level. Eleven patients (seven with plaques and four with erythroderma) were referred for PUVA therapy because of poor response to conventional therapy. Seven patients had complete clearing of skin lesions and three improved markedly. All ten of these patients experienced good to excellent control of the disease while receiving maintenance therapy, resulting in a virtual remission lasting for greater than 2 years in four patients. Of the six patients who discontinued PUVA during the followup period, three died within 1 year and three experienced progression of MF despite conventional therapy. The very promising results in this small patient group should encourage further studies of PUVA for cutaneous T-cell lymphomas.", "contents": "Methoxsalen photochemotherapy for mycosis fungoides. Methoxsalen photochemotherapy (PUVA; psoralen plus ultraviolet light) is effective in the treatment of mycosis fungoides (MF). The mechanism of this beneficial effect is unknown but probably involves covalent photo-binding of methoxsalen molecules to pyrimidine bases in DNA at the cellular level and impaired T-cell function or survival at the tissue level. Eleven patients (seven with plaques and four with erythroderma) were referred for PUVA therapy because of poor response to conventional therapy. Seven patients had complete clearing of skin lesions and three improved markedly. All ten of these patients experienced good to excellent control of the disease while receiving maintenance therapy, resulting in a virtual remission lasting for greater than 2 years in four patients. Of the six patients who discontinued PUVA during the followup period, three died within 1 year and three experienced progression of MF despite conventional therapy. The very promising results in this small patient group should encourage further studies of PUVA for cutaneous T-cell lymphomas.", "PMID": 445518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7169", "title": "Photochemotherapy for mycosis fungoides: long-term followup study.", "content": "A 3-year followup on ten of 12 patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) treated with photochemotherapy (PUVA; psoralens + ultraviolet light) reveals eight patients whose diseases have remained clear while receiving maintenance PUVA. An additional 35 patients with MF have been successfully treated with PUVA. Eight cases of parapsoriasis en plaque have cleared with PUVA. PUVA is indicated in early eczematous and plaque stages of MF. It may be used as adjunctive therapy in tumor-stage MF treated with X-ray therapy or chemotherapy.", "contents": "Photochemotherapy for mycosis fungoides: long-term followup study. A 3-year followup on ten of 12 patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) treated with photochemotherapy (PUVA; psoralens + ultraviolet light) reveals eight patients whose diseases have remained clear while receiving maintenance PUVA. An additional 35 patients with MF have been successfully treated with PUVA. Eight cases of parapsoriasis en plaque have cleared with PUVA. PUVA is indicated in early eczematous and plaque stages of MF. It may be used as adjunctive therapy in tumor-stage MF treated with X-ray therapy or chemotherapy.", "PMID": 445519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7170", "title": "Direct effects of dopamine, orciprenaline and norepinephrine on the right and left ventricle of isolated canine hearts.", "content": "In 31 canine heart-lung preparations the direct cardiac effects of dopamine were compared to those of norepinephrine and orciprenaline. All three agents increased heart rate by 50-60% to a maximum of 240-250 beats/min. The inotropic effects of the three drugs were not significantly different. Even with the highest doses cardiac arrhythmias were rarely observed. To achieve maximal chronotropic and inotropic effects, dopamine required four times higher doses than norepinephrine and orciprenaline. All three drugs increased right ventricular dP/dt max by about twice as much as left ventricular dP/dt max. Peak systolic pressure (P max) in the right ventricle was increased 4-5 times more than P max in the left ventricle while mean aortic pressure was elevated by 12-16 mm Hg and mean pulmonary pressure by 6-14 mm Hg. The positive inotropic effect of all three sympathomimetics and of CaCl2 was substantially more pronounced on the right than on the left ventricle.", "contents": "Direct effects of dopamine, orciprenaline and norepinephrine on the right and left ventricle of isolated canine hearts. In 31 canine heart-lung preparations the direct cardiac effects of dopamine were compared to those of norepinephrine and orciprenaline. All three agents increased heart rate by 50-60% to a maximum of 240-250 beats/min. The inotropic effects of the three drugs were not significantly different. Even with the highest doses cardiac arrhythmias were rarely observed. To achieve maximal chronotropic and inotropic effects, dopamine required four times higher doses than norepinephrine and orciprenaline. All three drugs increased right ventricular dP/dt max by about twice as much as left ventricular dP/dt max. Peak systolic pressure (P max) in the right ventricle was increased 4-5 times more than P max in the left ventricle while mean aortic pressure was elevated by 12-16 mm Hg and mean pulmonary pressure by 6-14 mm Hg. The positive inotropic effect of all three sympathomimetics and of CaCl2 was substantially more pronounced on the right than on the left ventricle.", "PMID": 445522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7171", "title": "Effect of inosine on ventricular regional perfusion and infarct size after coronary occlusion.", "content": "In 16 dogs inosine was infused at 0.5 mmol/min i.v. for 5 min beginning 15 min after coronary occlusion. Tracer microspheres were used to estimate flow in subepicardium and subendocardium of nonischemic, central ischemic, and borderline ischemic muscle. Estimates of flow before occlusion, 5 min after occlusion, during inosine infusion, 30 min after infusion and 60 min after infusion were obtained. Coronary occlusion reduced flow in the central ischemic regions by 75-95%. The reduction in flow was greatest in subendocardium. In the borderline regions subendocardial flow was reduced by 30% while subepicardial flow was unaffected. The major effects of inosine were seen in nonischemic and borderline ischemic regions. Flow in borderline subendocardium returned to its pre-occlusion value, and flow in nonischemic myocardium increased by approximately 60-80%. However, only in the ischemic regions was the increase in flow sustained for the entire 60 min. In 20 dogs infarct size was determined using nitro blue tetrazolium stain. In 10 controls infarct size was 20.1%, while in 10 inosine-treated dogs infarct size was 15.2% of left ventricular weight (p less than 0.01). Thus, following coronary occlusion inosine infusion was associated with an increase in perfusion of ischemic myocardium and a reduction in infarct size.", "contents": "Effect of inosine on ventricular regional perfusion and infarct size after coronary occlusion. In 16 dogs inosine was infused at 0.5 mmol/min i.v. for 5 min beginning 15 min after coronary occlusion. Tracer microspheres were used to estimate flow in subepicardium and subendocardium of nonischemic, central ischemic, and borderline ischemic muscle. Estimates of flow before occlusion, 5 min after occlusion, during inosine infusion, 30 min after infusion and 60 min after infusion were obtained. Coronary occlusion reduced flow in the central ischemic regions by 75-95%. The reduction in flow was greatest in subendocardium. In the borderline regions subendocardial flow was reduced by 30% while subepicardial flow was unaffected. The major effects of inosine were seen in nonischemic and borderline ischemic regions. Flow in borderline subendocardium returned to its pre-occlusion value, and flow in nonischemic myocardium increased by approximately 60-80%. However, only in the ischemic regions was the increase in flow sustained for the entire 60 min. In 20 dogs infarct size was determined using nitro blue tetrazolium stain. In 10 controls infarct size was 20.1%, while in 10 inosine-treated dogs infarct size was 15.2% of left ventricular weight (p less than 0.01). Thus, following coronary occlusion inosine infusion was associated with an increase in perfusion of ischemic myocardium and a reduction in infarct size.", "PMID": 445523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7172", "title": "Influence of some hypotensive drugs on the effects of hypothalamic stimulation.", "content": "Clonidine, L-alpha-methyldopa, propranolol as well as noradrenaline, when injected directly into the hypothalamic paraventricular (PV) nucleus area, enhance the activity of this center. Lidoflazine appears to be inactive. Since the electrical, chemical and pharmacological stimulation of the PV area elicits the same depressor cardiovascular reactions, a specific differentiation of this nucleus as a depressor center is proposed. The above-mentioned drugs, when introduced into the ventromedial nucleus area, enhance the pressor effects produced by stimulation of this nucleus. Thus, the hypothalamic depressor activity is not linked with an inhibition of the ventromedial pressor activity.", "contents": "Influence of some hypotensive drugs on the effects of hypothalamic stimulation. Clonidine, L-alpha-methyldopa, propranolol as well as noradrenaline, when injected directly into the hypothalamic paraventricular (PV) nucleus area, enhance the activity of this center. Lidoflazine appears to be inactive. Since the electrical, chemical and pharmacological stimulation of the PV area elicits the same depressor cardiovascular reactions, a specific differentiation of this nucleus as a depressor center is proposed. The above-mentioned drugs, when introduced into the ventromedial nucleus area, enhance the pressor effects produced by stimulation of this nucleus. Thus, the hypothalamic depressor activity is not linked with an inhibition of the ventromedial pressor activity.", "PMID": 445524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7173", "title": "Return to work after myocardial infarction.", "content": "The period of inability to work after acute myocardial infarction was examined in follow-up studies. Without organized rehabilitation, 7.5% of patients past myocardial infarction returned to work after 6 months. After early mobilization in the hospital and intensive follow-up treatment in a rehabilitation center, 18% of the patients returned to work within 6 months. After the establishment of coronary groups in the vicinity of the patients' homes for the continuation of therapy, the percentage of patients able to return to work within 6 months rose to 42.5%, as shown in a later study. A further study checked the reliability of the rehabilitation clinic's prediction as to the expected date of return to work; only 24% of these predictions were correct. But this percentage rose to 82% after prolonged talks between physician and patient as to the motivation for return to work, modification of the conditions and a detailed report to the local physician.", "contents": "Return to work after myocardial infarction. The period of inability to work after acute myocardial infarction was examined in follow-up studies. Without organized rehabilitation, 7.5% of patients past myocardial infarction returned to work after 6 months. After early mobilization in the hospital and intensive follow-up treatment in a rehabilitation center, 18% of the patients returned to work within 6 months. After the establishment of coronary groups in the vicinity of the patients' homes for the continuation of therapy, the percentage of patients able to return to work within 6 months rose to 42.5%, as shown in a later study. A further study checked the reliability of the rehabilitation clinic's prediction as to the expected date of return to work; only 24% of these predictions were correct. But this percentage rose to 82% after prolonged talks between physician and patient as to the motivation for return to work, modification of the conditions and a detailed report to the local physician.", "PMID": 445525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7174", "title": "Comparative dilator effect of verapamil and sodium nitroprusside in forearm arterial bed and dorsal hand veins in man: functional differences between vascular smooth muscle in arterioles and veins.", "content": "Verapamil and sodium nitroprusside induce a dose dependent dilatation in the forearm arterial bed and preconstricted dorsal hand vein in man. Verapamil is about twenty times more effective in dilating arterioles than veins; sodium nitroprusside is about ten times more effective in veins than arterioles. These differences can be related to functional differences between the two types of vessel.", "contents": "Comparative dilator effect of verapamil and sodium nitroprusside in forearm arterial bed and dorsal hand veins in man: functional differences between vascular smooth muscle in arterioles and veins. Verapamil and sodium nitroprusside induce a dose dependent dilatation in the forearm arterial bed and preconstricted dorsal hand vein in man. Verapamil is about twenty times more effective in dilating arterioles than veins; sodium nitroprusside is about ten times more effective in veins than arterioles. These differences can be related to functional differences between the two types of vessel.", "PMID": 445527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7175", "title": "Sodium excretion in normal conscious dogs.", "content": "Bitches maintained on a low Na intake, were given doses of saline (0.125 mol.litre(-1) NaCl, 0.025 mol.litre(-1) NaHCO3, 0.004 mol.litre(-1) KCl) by stomach tube. Doses of 100 and 200 cm3 produced only minor increases in Na excretion; after 300 cm3, Na excretion rose from about 2 to about 60 micromol.min(-1). Plasma protein fell by 1.8 litre(-1) for each 100 cm3 of saline retained. Within normal ranges of Na excretion there is a threshold of plasma protein concentration above which Na is retained and below which Na is excreted. Changes in exogenous creatinine clearance were measured allowing calculation of the filtered load of Na, which shows that the absolute tubular reabsorption of Na and water is increased in volume expansion by isotonic saline. Meat produced large increase in glomerular filtration rate without much increase in Na excretion and mechanisms are discussed by which Na reabsorptin is more effective after meat than after doses of saline. Creatinine cleaerance increased by 0.67 cm3.min(-1) for each fall of 1 g.litre(-1) in plasma protein; this is predicted by a theory that the glomerular capillary blood pressure is 9.3 kPa (70 mmHg) rather than 6.7 kPa (50 mmHg).", "contents": "Sodium excretion in normal conscious dogs. Bitches maintained on a low Na intake, were given doses of saline (0.125 mol.litre(-1) NaCl, 0.025 mol.litre(-1) NaHCO3, 0.004 mol.litre(-1) KCl) by stomach tube. Doses of 100 and 200 cm3 produced only minor increases in Na excretion; after 300 cm3, Na excretion rose from about 2 to about 60 micromol.min(-1). Plasma protein fell by 1.8 litre(-1) for each 100 cm3 of saline retained. Within normal ranges of Na excretion there is a threshold of plasma protein concentration above which Na is retained and below which Na is excreted. Changes in exogenous creatinine clearance were measured allowing calculation of the filtered load of Na, which shows that the absolute tubular reabsorption of Na and water is increased in volume expansion by isotonic saline. Meat produced large increase in glomerular filtration rate without much increase in Na excretion and mechanisms are discussed by which Na reabsorptin is more effective after meat than after doses of saline. Creatinine cleaerance increased by 0.67 cm3.min(-1) for each fall of 1 g.litre(-1) in plasma protein; this is predicted by a theory that the glomerular capillary blood pressure is 9.3 kPa (70 mmHg) rather than 6.7 kPa (50 mmHg).", "PMID": 445528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7176", "title": "Cardiovascular responses to lower body negative pressure in normal subjects and in patients with diabetes mellitus.", "content": "The cardiovascular responses of non-diabetic and diabetic subjects to lower body negative pressure at 1.3, 2.7, and 5.3 kPa (10, 20, and 40 mmHg) were measured. The diabetics fell into two groups--those showing little change in systolic blood pressure with lower body negative pressure at 5.3 kPa (40 mmHg) and those showing falls greater than 2.7 kPa (20 mmHg). The patterns of response in the former group of diabetics and in the non-diabetics were similar. The diabetics who showed a fall in systolic blood pressure with lower body negative pressure nonetheless responded with a forearm vasoconstriction indicating that the vasomotor dysfunction was localised to some other vascular bed. In one subject forearm vasodilatation occurred with lower body negative pressure at 5.3 kPa (40 mmHg) although his response to milder levels of lower body negative pressure appeared normal. It is suggested that the integrity of vasomotor reflexes is most reliably tested by exposure to stepped increases in lower body negative pressure.", "contents": "Cardiovascular responses to lower body negative pressure in normal subjects and in patients with diabetes mellitus. The cardiovascular responses of non-diabetic and diabetic subjects to lower body negative pressure at 1.3, 2.7, and 5.3 kPa (10, 20, and 40 mmHg) were measured. The diabetics fell into two groups--those showing little change in systolic blood pressure with lower body negative pressure at 5.3 kPa (40 mmHg) and those showing falls greater than 2.7 kPa (20 mmHg). The patterns of response in the former group of diabetics and in the non-diabetics were similar. The diabetics who showed a fall in systolic blood pressure with lower body negative pressure nonetheless responded with a forearm vasoconstriction indicating that the vasomotor dysfunction was localised to some other vascular bed. In one subject forearm vasodilatation occurred with lower body negative pressure at 5.3 kPa (40 mmHg) although his response to milder levels of lower body negative pressure appeared normal. It is suggested that the integrity of vasomotor reflexes is most reliably tested by exposure to stepped increases in lower body negative pressure.", "PMID": 445529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7177", "title": "Noninvasively and invasively measured pulsatile haemodynamics with graded arterial stenosis.", "content": "Pulsatile haemodynamics associated with graded degrees of experimentally produced stenosis were studied in the canine femoral artery. Invasively determined pulsatile blood flow and noninvasively determined blood velocity with Doppler ultrasound were measured an average of 1.3 and 2.3 cm proximal to the stenosis, respectively. Pulsatile blood pressure was measured 0.6 cm proximal and 3.7 cm distal to the stenosis. With increasing severity of stenosis there were progressive increases in the femoral artery hydraulic input impedance moduli and in the ratio of the impedance moduli to the zero harmonic impedance (or total resistance). This resulted in: a) a progressive reduction in the Fourier harmonic moduli and pulsewave amplitudes of flow, velocity, and distal pressure; b) a progressive increase in the fifth-seventh proximal pressure harmonic moduli; but c) little change in mean proximal pressure or its first 4 harmonic moduli. The data confirm the well known phenomena of a 'critical stenosis' in that there is little decrease in resting mean blood flow until there is a 70 to 80 stenosis (area reduction). Also the oscillatory portions of the femoral artery data were more sensitive to the changes in stenosis than were the nonoscillatory parameters, which confirms previously reported findings from the thoracic aorta. However, the femoral artery haemodynamics exhibited a greater amount of frequency dependent behaviour than the thoracic aorta which is probably the result of a more complex interaction of reflections from the stenosis and from the periphery in the femoral artery than in the thoracic aorta. The sensitive changes in oscillatory haemodynamics may provide a useful basis for noninvasive and invasive physiological assessment of human peripheral atherosclerotic stenosis and of experimental stenosis in animals.", "contents": "Noninvasively and invasively measured pulsatile haemodynamics with graded arterial stenosis. Pulsatile haemodynamics associated with graded degrees of experimentally produced stenosis were studied in the canine femoral artery. Invasively determined pulsatile blood flow and noninvasively determined blood velocity with Doppler ultrasound were measured an average of 1.3 and 2.3 cm proximal to the stenosis, respectively. Pulsatile blood pressure was measured 0.6 cm proximal and 3.7 cm distal to the stenosis. With increasing severity of stenosis there were progressive increases in the femoral artery hydraulic input impedance moduli and in the ratio of the impedance moduli to the zero harmonic impedance (or total resistance). This resulted in: a) a progressive reduction in the Fourier harmonic moduli and pulsewave amplitudes of flow, velocity, and distal pressure; b) a progressive increase in the fifth-seventh proximal pressure harmonic moduli; but c) little change in mean proximal pressure or its first 4 harmonic moduli. The data confirm the well known phenomena of a 'critical stenosis' in that there is little decrease in resting mean blood flow until there is a 70 to 80 stenosis (area reduction). Also the oscillatory portions of the femoral artery data were more sensitive to the changes in stenosis than were the nonoscillatory parameters, which confirms previously reported findings from the thoracic aorta. However, the femoral artery haemodynamics exhibited a greater amount of frequency dependent behaviour than the thoracic aorta which is probably the result of a more complex interaction of reflections from the stenosis and from the periphery in the femoral artery than in the thoracic aorta. The sensitive changes in oscillatory haemodynamics may provide a useful basis for noninvasive and invasive physiological assessment of human peripheral atherosclerotic stenosis and of experimental stenosis in animals.", "PMID": 445530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7178", "title": "Effects of methylprednisolone on ventricular arrhythmias during acute myocardial ischaemia.", "content": "The effects of methylprednisolone (50 mg.kg-1) on the incidence of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation and on ventricular fibrillation threshold were studied during acute coronary occlusion in anaesthetised dogs. Ventricular tachycardia and/or ventricular fibrillation occurred in 11 of the 16 animals (69%) both before and after methylprednisolone pretreatment. The mean ventricular fibrillation threshold of 10 dogs was 10.1 +/- 1.8 mA before methylprednisolone and it increased slightly to 13.3 +/- 2.3 mA after the drug. This difference was not statistically significant (P greater than 0.2).", "contents": "Effects of methylprednisolone on ventricular arrhythmias during acute myocardial ischaemia. The effects of methylprednisolone (50 mg.kg-1) on the incidence of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation and on ventricular fibrillation threshold were studied during acute coronary occlusion in anaesthetised dogs. Ventricular tachycardia and/or ventricular fibrillation occurred in 11 of the 16 animals (69%) both before and after methylprednisolone pretreatment. The mean ventricular fibrillation threshold of 10 dogs was 10.1 +/- 1.8 mA before methylprednisolone and it increased slightly to 13.3 +/- 2.3 mA after the drug. This difference was not statistically significant (P greater than 0.2).", "PMID": 445531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7179", "title": "Occurrence of nucleolar material in the cytoplasm of plant cells.", "content": "This paper deals with the induction of cytoplasmic nucleolar bodies in meristematic Allium cepa L. cells after treatment with drugs which interfere with nucleolar functionality. The drugs which interfere with protein synthesis failed to produce these bodies. The ultrastructure origin and physiological significance of these bodies are discussed here, as well as their relation with the mitotic prenucleolar bodies (Moreno-D\u00edaz de la Espina et al., 1976).", "contents": "Occurrence of nucleolar material in the cytoplasm of plant cells. This paper deals with the induction of cytoplasmic nucleolar bodies in meristematic Allium cepa L. cells after treatment with drugs which interfere with nucleolar functionality. The drugs which interfere with protein synthesis failed to produce these bodies. The ultrastructure origin and physiological significance of these bodies are discussed here, as well as their relation with the mitotic prenucleolar bodies (Moreno-D\u00edaz de la Espina et al., 1976).", "PMID": 445579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7180", "title": "Proliferative index estimated by chromatin pattern analysis.", "content": "Chromatin pattern analysis at different density thresholds in Feulgen-stained meristems stimulated to proliferate by water inbibition, allows to estimate a proliferative potential index (PPI) which is a much earlier indicator of changes in proliferation than conventional labelling and mitotic indices. The PPI is but the ratio G1 cells to total 2C cells (or G2 to 4C cells, when cells also digress from the post-replicative stage of the cycle). The method is based in the fact that G1 and G2 cells have larger projected nuclear area and smaller dense chromatin area than their conterpart non-proliferating G0 and G0,2 cells.", "contents": "Proliferative index estimated by chromatin pattern analysis. Chromatin pattern analysis at different density thresholds in Feulgen-stained meristems stimulated to proliferate by water inbibition, allows to estimate a proliferative potential index (PPI) which is a much earlier indicator of changes in proliferation than conventional labelling and mitotic indices. The PPI is but the ratio G1 cells to total 2C cells (or G2 to 4C cells, when cells also digress from the post-replicative stage of the cycle). The method is based in the fact that G1 and G2 cells have larger projected nuclear area and smaller dense chromatin area than their conterpart non-proliferating G0 and G0,2 cells.", "PMID": 445580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7181", "title": "Cell surface protein kinases in Dictyostelium: are they artifacts?", "content": "Evidence for cell surface protein kinases as possible regulatory factors of cell interaction in Dictyostelium discoideum was examined by incubating intact cells with gamma 32P-ATP in the presence and absence of histone. No significant incorporation of 32P was detected in the absence of histone. In its presence strong phosphorylation not only of the histone but also of endogenous proteins was obtained. This was due to the fact that histone made the cell membranes permeable for substrates and proteinkinases. Histone also preserved protein kinase activities which were otherwise lost during homogenization. The total protein kinase activity in histone treated cells was 5 fold higher than in sonicated cells.", "contents": "Cell surface protein kinases in Dictyostelium: are they artifacts? Evidence for cell surface protein kinases as possible regulatory factors of cell interaction in Dictyostelium discoideum was examined by incubating intact cells with gamma 32P-ATP in the presence and absence of histone. No significant incorporation of 32P was detected in the absence of histone. In its presence strong phosphorylation not only of the histone but also of endogenous proteins was obtained. This was due to the fact that histone made the cell membranes permeable for substrates and proteinkinases. Histone also preserved protein kinase activities which were otherwise lost during homogenization. The total protein kinase activity in histone treated cells was 5 fold higher than in sonicated cells.", "PMID": 445581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7182", "title": "Quantitative assessment of the amount and the activity of trypsin associated with trypsinized cells.", "content": "The present investigation has demonstrated that when cell layers are trypsinized with 125I-trypsin and washed under strictly standardized conditions, the amount of trypsin which remains associated with the cell suspension can be accurately determined. This amount is more than 10 times greater than would be expected from dilution only and is dependent on the density of the cell layers. On plating of the cells, less than 10% of the carry-over trypsin remains associated with the cells and suggestive evidence for a mainly intracellular localization was obtained with a quantitative immunoperoxidase technique. This carry-over trypsin was further shown to maintain proteolytic activity by its ability to remove significant amounts of macromolecular material from a cell layer prelabeled with 3H-Leucine.", "contents": "Quantitative assessment of the amount and the activity of trypsin associated with trypsinized cells. The present investigation has demonstrated that when cell layers are trypsinized with 125I-trypsin and washed under strictly standardized conditions, the amount of trypsin which remains associated with the cell suspension can be accurately determined. This amount is more than 10 times greater than would be expected from dilution only and is dependent on the density of the cell layers. On plating of the cells, less than 10% of the carry-over trypsin remains associated with the cells and suggestive evidence for a mainly intracellular localization was obtained with a quantitative immunoperoxidase technique. This carry-over trypsin was further shown to maintain proteolytic activity by its ability to remove significant amounts of macromolecular material from a cell layer prelabeled with 3H-Leucine.", "PMID": 445582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7183", "title": "Red cell-mediated microinjection of macromolecules into monolayer cultures of mammalian cells.", "content": "Phytohemagglutinin has been used to enhance the red cell-mediated microinjection of macromolecules into monolayer cultures of mammalian cells. The simple procedure described should promote the wider use of this microinjection technique.", "contents": "Red cell-mediated microinjection of macromolecules into monolayer cultures of mammalian cells. Phytohemagglutinin has been used to enhance the red cell-mediated microinjection of macromolecules into monolayer cultures of mammalian cells. The simple procedure described should promote the wider use of this microinjection technique.", "PMID": 445583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7184", "title": "Histones biosynthesis and turnover in epithelial lens cells cultured in vitro.", "content": "\"Histone synthesis was compared in epithelial lens cells during exponential growth and in the stationary phase brought by contact inhibition. Double labelling experiments with 3H-lysine and 14C-lysine show a net turnover of histone H1 independent of DNA replication. The nucleosome core histones seem to turn over also, but much more slowly than H1\".", "contents": "Histones biosynthesis and turnover in epithelial lens cells cultured in vitro. \"Histone synthesis was compared in epithelial lens cells during exponential growth and in the stationary phase brought by contact inhibition. Double labelling experiments with 3H-lysine and 14C-lysine show a net turnover of histone H1 independent of DNA replication. The nucleosome core histones seem to turn over also, but much more slowly than H1\".", "PMID": 445584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7185", "title": "Effect of alpha-tocopherol incorporation of glucose permeability and phase transition of lecithin liposomes.", "content": "Liposomes were prepared from dipalmitoyllecithin, dimyristoyllecithin, dioleoyllecithin, egg lecithin, and soybean lecithin, and the effects of incorporation of various quantities of alpha-tocopherol or its analogs on permeability of the liposomes to glucose were studied at various temperatures (4--40 degrees C). Results showed that increase in the quantity of alpha-tocopherol incorporated into dipalmitoyllecithin and dimyristoyllecithin liposomes lowered the transition temperature for marked release of glucose and also decreased the maximum rate of temperature-dependent permeability, alpha-Tocopherol also had similar but less marked effects on the permeability of dioleoyllecithin and egg lecithin liposomes, but little effect on those of soybean lecithin, which has a higher degree of unsaturation. In dipalmitoyllecithin liposomes phytol showed a similar effect of permeability to that of alpha-tocopherol, but phytanic acid caused a different pattern of temperature-dependent permeability. With analogs of alpha-tocopherol, the regulatory effect on permeability decreased with shortening and disappearance of the isoprenoid side chain. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to the physiological functions of tocopherols in natural membranes.", "contents": "Effect of alpha-tocopherol incorporation of glucose permeability and phase transition of lecithin liposomes. Liposomes were prepared from dipalmitoyllecithin, dimyristoyllecithin, dioleoyllecithin, egg lecithin, and soybean lecithin, and the effects of incorporation of various quantities of alpha-tocopherol or its analogs on permeability of the liposomes to glucose were studied at various temperatures (4--40 degrees C). Results showed that increase in the quantity of alpha-tocopherol incorporated into dipalmitoyllecithin and dimyristoyllecithin liposomes lowered the transition temperature for marked release of glucose and also decreased the maximum rate of temperature-dependent permeability, alpha-Tocopherol also had similar but less marked effects on the permeability of dioleoyllecithin and egg lecithin liposomes, but little effect on those of soybean lecithin, which has a higher degree of unsaturation. In dipalmitoyllecithin liposomes phytol showed a similar effect of permeability to that of alpha-tocopherol, but phytanic acid caused a different pattern of temperature-dependent permeability. With analogs of alpha-tocopherol, the regulatory effect on permeability decreased with shortening and disappearance of the isoprenoid side chain. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to the physiological functions of tocopherols in natural membranes.", "PMID": 445689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7186", "title": "Cholestryl-phosphoryl-choline in lipid bilayers.", "content": "Cholesteryl-phosphoryl-choline (CPC), a hybrid between cholesterol and lecithin, is incorporated into sonicated liposomes and erythrocyte membranes similarly to cholesterol. The effect of CPC on lipid microviscosity and degree of order is smaller, but not significantly than that of cholesterol. It is proposed that CPC may be employed as an efficient modulator of lipid dynamics.", "contents": "Cholestryl-phosphoryl-choline in lipid bilayers. Cholesteryl-phosphoryl-choline (CPC), a hybrid between cholesterol and lecithin, is incorporated into sonicated liposomes and erythrocyte membranes similarly to cholesterol. The effect of CPC on lipid microviscosity and degree of order is smaller, but not significantly than that of cholesterol. It is proposed that CPC may be employed as an efficient modulator of lipid dynamics.", "PMID": 445690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7187", "title": "Renin secretion in the chronically perfused pulseless calf. Evidence for failure of stimulation by decreased pulse pressure.", "content": "To study the influence of arterial pulse pressure on renin release, a chronic pulseless calf preparation was developed using a centrifugal left ventricular bypass blood pump. After pump implantation and recovery, control measurements of renal vein and arterial plasma renin activity, arterial pressure, and renal artery flow were obtained. The centrifugal bypass pump rate then was increased to capture cardiac output completely, and nine conscious calves were perfused in a nonpulsatile manner (pulse pressure less than 5-10 mm Hg) for 48 hours. Nonpulsatile perfusion was well tolerated and serum sodium, potassium, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen were unchanged during bypass. Mean arterial pressure remained relatively constant [114 +/- 3 (SE) mm Hg] during bypass, and was not significantly changed from control. Although renal blood flow decreased slightly from control (667 +/- 84 ml/min) during the nonpulsatile perfusion period (555 +/- 73 ml/min), renin secretion did not increase significantly from control (482 +/- 81 ng angiotensin I/ml per hr per min) during the bypass period (531 +/- 99). A diurnal cycle of renin secretin was observed during the pulseless perfusions. These data document the lack of any significant stimulatory influence of decreased pulse pressure on renin secretion in a chronic awake calf model.", "contents": "Renin secretion in the chronically perfused pulseless calf. Evidence for failure of stimulation by decreased pulse pressure. To study the influence of arterial pulse pressure on renin release, a chronic pulseless calf preparation was developed using a centrifugal left ventricular bypass blood pump. After pump implantation and recovery, control measurements of renal vein and arterial plasma renin activity, arterial pressure, and renal artery flow were obtained. The centrifugal bypass pump rate then was increased to capture cardiac output completely, and nine conscious calves were perfused in a nonpulsatile manner (pulse pressure less than 5-10 mm Hg) for 48 hours. Nonpulsatile perfusion was well tolerated and serum sodium, potassium, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen were unchanged during bypass. Mean arterial pressure remained relatively constant [114 +/- 3 (SE) mm Hg] during bypass, and was not significantly changed from control. Although renal blood flow decreased slightly from control (667 +/- 84 ml/min) during the nonpulsatile perfusion period (555 +/- 73 ml/min), renin secretion did not increase significantly from control (482 +/- 81 ng angiotensin I/ml per hr per min) during the bypass period (531 +/- 99). A diurnal cycle of renin secretin was observed during the pulseless perfusions. These data document the lack of any significant stimulatory influence of decreased pulse pressure on renin secretion in a chronic awake calf model.", "PMID": 445691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7188", "title": "Correlative electrophysiological and anatomical studies concerning the site of origin of escape rhythm during complete atrioventricular block in the dog.", "content": "Complete heart block was produced in eight dogs by the selective perfusion of physostigmine or neostigm into the atrioventricular (AV) node artery. A characteristic escape AV junctional rhythm emerged in each dog. After reversal of the cholinesterase paralysis with atropine, in each dog partial heart block was produced by an incision into the AV nodal region. In three of these eight dogs, a second incision placed slightly more anteriorly produced complete AV block which was followed by the emergence of an escape AV junctional rhythm similar to the one produced pharmacologically. Hearts of these three dogs were examined histologically with serial sections to determine the exact location of the incisions and their relationship to the AV node and His bundle. In each dog the incision that produced complete heart block passed directly through the junction of AV node with His bundle. In this region previous studies had demonstrated numerous P cells, which are thought to be the site of origin of normal cardiac automaticity. In each of the three hearts there were abundant P cells in continuity with the His bundle distal to the cut producing heart block. Significance of these findings is discussed relative to the locus of action of acetylcholine within the AV junction, the site of origin of AV junctional rhythm, and sme aspects of the experimental and therapeutic production of heart block.", "contents": "Correlative electrophysiological and anatomical studies concerning the site of origin of escape rhythm during complete atrioventricular block in the dog. Complete heart block was produced in eight dogs by the selective perfusion of physostigmine or neostigm into the atrioventricular (AV) node artery. A characteristic escape AV junctional rhythm emerged in each dog. After reversal of the cholinesterase paralysis with atropine, in each dog partial heart block was produced by an incision into the AV nodal region. In three of these eight dogs, a second incision placed slightly more anteriorly produced complete AV block which was followed by the emergence of an escape AV junctional rhythm similar to the one produced pharmacologically. Hearts of these three dogs were examined histologically with serial sections to determine the exact location of the incisions and their relationship to the AV node and His bundle. In each dog the incision that produced complete heart block passed directly through the junction of AV node with His bundle. In this region previous studies had demonstrated numerous P cells, which are thought to be the site of origin of normal cardiac automaticity. In each of the three hearts there were abundant P cells in continuity with the His bundle distal to the cut producing heart block. Significance of these findings is discussed relative to the locus of action of acetylcholine within the AV junction, the site of origin of AV junctional rhythm, and sme aspects of the experimental and therapeutic production of heart block.", "PMID": 445692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7189", "title": "Prostaglandin control of the renal circulation in response to hypoxemia in the fetal lamb in utero.", "content": "We studied the effects of 10-minute periods of hypoxemia in unanesthetized fetal lambs in utero instrumented for measurements of arterial pressure and renal and iliac blood flows. Fetal hypoxemia, induced by delivering a hypoxic gas mixture to the ewe, was characterized by a reduction in fetal PaO2 from 20.1 +/- 1.4 to 8.8 +/- 1.0 mm Hg (mean +/- SE). The fetus responded with bradycardia and persistent vasoconstriction in the iliac bed throughout the 10-minute period. In contrast, renal resistance rose significantly only at the end of the hypoxemic period. After 5-7 minutes of hypoxemia, when iliac flow had fallen by 40 +/- 4% and iliac resistance had risen by 86 +/- 13%, renal flow and resistance were not changed significantly from control; in fact, we found that renal flow rose substantially at this time in several fetal lambs. After blockade of prostaglandin synthesis with either indomethacin or meclofenamate, renal flow fell after 5-7 minutes of hypoxemia by 36 +/- 5%. The reduction in renal flow and increases in renal resistance were significantly greater than was observed prior to blockade of prostaglandin synthesis. Thus, fetal hypoxemia elicits bradycardia and intense peripheral vasoconstriction reflected by the changes in the iliac bed, with relative sparing of the reanl bed. The relative protection of the renal bed during fetal hypoxemia appears to be related to a mechanism involving prostaglandins, since after blockade of prostaglandin synthesis, hypoxemia results in intense renal vasoconstriction.", "contents": "Prostaglandin control of the renal circulation in response to hypoxemia in the fetal lamb in utero. We studied the effects of 10-minute periods of hypoxemia in unanesthetized fetal lambs in utero instrumented for measurements of arterial pressure and renal and iliac blood flows. Fetal hypoxemia, induced by delivering a hypoxic gas mixture to the ewe, was characterized by a reduction in fetal PaO2 from 20.1 +/- 1.4 to 8.8 +/- 1.0 mm Hg (mean +/- SE). The fetus responded with bradycardia and persistent vasoconstriction in the iliac bed throughout the 10-minute period. In contrast, renal resistance rose significantly only at the end of the hypoxemic period. After 5-7 minutes of hypoxemia, when iliac flow had fallen by 40 +/- 4% and iliac resistance had risen by 86 +/- 13%, renal flow and resistance were not changed significantly from control; in fact, we found that renal flow rose substantially at this time in several fetal lambs. After blockade of prostaglandin synthesis with either indomethacin or meclofenamate, renal flow fell after 5-7 minutes of hypoxemia by 36 +/- 5%. The reduction in renal flow and increases in renal resistance were significantly greater than was observed prior to blockade of prostaglandin synthesis. Thus, fetal hypoxemia elicits bradycardia and intense peripheral vasoconstriction reflected by the changes in the iliac bed, with relative sparing of the reanl bed. The relative protection of the renal bed during fetal hypoxemia appears to be related to a mechanism involving prostaglandins, since after blockade of prostaglandin synthesis, hypoxemia results in intense renal vasoconstriction.", "PMID": 445701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7190", "title": "The effects of cocaine and metanephrine on the cardiac responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation in dogs.", "content": "The effects of infusions of cocaine (COC) and metanephrine (MET) on the inotropic and chronotropic responses to cardiac sympathetic nerve stimulation were studied in open-chest, anesthetized dogs. COC blocks the neuronal uptake of norepinephrine (NE), whereas MET blocks the extraneuronal uptake. Both blocking agents slightly enhanced the inotropic but not the chronotropic responses. COC prolonged the cardiac responses significantly, particularly the chronotropic responses, whereas MET had no appreciable effect on the durations of these responses. Hence, it appears that the neuronal uptake mechanism plays a major role in the dissipation of neurally released NE in the heart, but that the extra-neuronal uptake mechanism plays only a minor role in its dissipation. In contrast to the results in certain other tissues, the combined effects of COC and MET on the cardiac responses were no greater or more prolonged than the sum of the effects produced by each agent acting alone.", "contents": "The effects of cocaine and metanephrine on the cardiac responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation in dogs. The effects of infusions of cocaine (COC) and metanephrine (MET) on the inotropic and chronotropic responses to cardiac sympathetic nerve stimulation were studied in open-chest, anesthetized dogs. COC blocks the neuronal uptake of norepinephrine (NE), whereas MET blocks the extraneuronal uptake. Both blocking agents slightly enhanced the inotropic but not the chronotropic responses. COC prolonged the cardiac responses significantly, particularly the chronotropic responses, whereas MET had no appreciable effect on the durations of these responses. Hence, it appears that the neuronal uptake mechanism plays a major role in the dissipation of neurally released NE in the heart, but that the extra-neuronal uptake mechanism plays only a minor role in its dissipation. In contrast to the results in certain other tissues, the combined effects of COC and MET on the cardiac responses were no greater or more prolonged than the sum of the effects produced by each agent acting alone.", "PMID": 445702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7191", "title": "Extracellular potentials related to intracellular action potentials during impulse conduction in anisotropic canine cardiac muscle.", "content": "This paper considers a quantitative description of intracellular and transmembrane currents in anisotropic muscle, with emphasis on the factors that determine the extracellular potentials. Although Vmax of the intracellular action potential had no relation to changes in conduction velocity in anisotropic tissue with constant membrane properties, the extracellular waveforms were quite sensitive to velocity changes. Large amplitude biphasic deflection occurred in the fast areas, and in the slow areas the waveforms were of lower amplitude and triphasic in shape; i.e., negative potentials preceded the biphasic positive-negative deflection. The extracellular potentials were simulated on the bases of a model of intracellular currents, and the theoretical and measured results showed good agreement. In tissue with anisotropic conductivity, the relationship between the spatial intracellualr potential gradient and the magnitude of the extracellular potential of the excitation wave was opposite to the classical relationship in isotropic tissue. Due to the influence of the effective intracellular conductivity on the spread of intracellular currents and on conduction velocity, in anisotropic tissue the extracellular potential decreased as the intracellular potential gradient increased. The peak values of the positive and negative potentials and the spatial distribution of the potential gradients varied considerably along the activation front. These findings were accounted for by differences in the distribution and spatial extent of the transmembrane currents, which were determined by the intracellular currents. The theoretical analysis showed that intracellular and transmembrane currents were proportional to the local conduction velocities of the wavefront. Thereby, it was not possible to have a \"uniform layer\" of current when there were differences in conduction velocity along the length of the excitation wave. The implications of the analysis are considerable, since the gratifying agreement between the theoretical and measured results indicates that the details of the extracellular waveforms can be explained on the basis of the distribution of intracellular currents; i.e., extracellular potentials provide a sensitive index of intracellular current flow.", "contents": "Extracellular potentials related to intracellular action potentials during impulse conduction in anisotropic canine cardiac muscle. This paper considers a quantitative description of intracellular and transmembrane currents in anisotropic muscle, with emphasis on the factors that determine the extracellular potentials. Although Vmax of the intracellular action potential had no relation to changes in conduction velocity in anisotropic tissue with constant membrane properties, the extracellular waveforms were quite sensitive to velocity changes. Large amplitude biphasic deflection occurred in the fast areas, and in the slow areas the waveforms were of lower amplitude and triphasic in shape; i.e., negative potentials preceded the biphasic positive-negative deflection. The extracellular potentials were simulated on the bases of a model of intracellular currents, and the theoretical and measured results showed good agreement. In tissue with anisotropic conductivity, the relationship between the spatial intracellualr potential gradient and the magnitude of the extracellular potential of the excitation wave was opposite to the classical relationship in isotropic tissue. Due to the influence of the effective intracellular conductivity on the spread of intracellular currents and on conduction velocity, in anisotropic tissue the extracellular potential decreased as the intracellular potential gradient increased. The peak values of the positive and negative potentials and the spatial distribution of the potential gradients varied considerably along the activation front. These findings were accounted for by differences in the distribution and spatial extent of the transmembrane currents, which were determined by the intracellular currents. The theoretical analysis showed that intracellular and transmembrane currents were proportional to the local conduction velocities of the wavefront. Thereby, it was not possible to have a \"uniform layer\" of current when there were differences in conduction velocity along the length of the excitation wave. The implications of the analysis are considerable, since the gratifying agreement between the theoretical and measured results indicates that the details of the extracellular waveforms can be explained on the basis of the distribution of intracellular currents; i.e., extracellular potentials provide a sensitive index of intracellular current flow.", "PMID": 445703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7192", "title": "Heart adaptation to acute pressure overload: an involvement of endogenous prostaglandins.", "content": "The purpose of this investigation was to study the relationships between the contractile behavior of the heart and myocardial prostaglandins. Using an open-chest model in rabbits, we assayed the left ventricular tissue content to prostaglandins (PG) E and F2 alpha at various intervals following acute pressure overload created by graduated aortic stenosis. The results suggest that the rabbits could be divided into two distinct groups based on specific hemodynamic changes following coarctation (systolic and diastolic pressure, dP/dt, and contractility index). The first group included rabbits whose adaptation to pressure overload was expressed as a gradual increase in the contractility index. The second group was comprised of rabbits that developed heart failure following coarctation. The increase in contractility in response to overload in the first group was paralleled by an increase in the content of PGE and PGF 2 alpha in the left ventricle, whereas, in rabbits with heart failure, the prostaglandin level did not rise above that of the control hearts. It is suggested that an increased endogenous prostaglandin content may be an important factor in adaptation to acute overload.", "contents": "Heart adaptation to acute pressure overload: an involvement of endogenous prostaglandins. The purpose of this investigation was to study the relationships between the contractile behavior of the heart and myocardial prostaglandins. Using an open-chest model in rabbits, we assayed the left ventricular tissue content to prostaglandins (PG) E and F2 alpha at various intervals following acute pressure overload created by graduated aortic stenosis. The results suggest that the rabbits could be divided into two distinct groups based on specific hemodynamic changes following coarctation (systolic and diastolic pressure, dP/dt, and contractility index). The first group included rabbits whose adaptation to pressure overload was expressed as a gradual increase in the contractility index. The second group was comprised of rabbits that developed heart failure following coarctation. The increase in contractility in response to overload in the first group was paralleled by an increase in the content of PGE and PGF 2 alpha in the left ventricle, whereas, in rabbits with heart failure, the prostaglandin level did not rise above that of the control hearts. It is suggested that an increased endogenous prostaglandin content may be an important factor in adaptation to acute overload.", "PMID": 445704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7193", "title": "Biochemical determinations of cholinergic innervation in cerebral arteries.", "content": "Endogenous choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity and high affinity (HA) 3H-choline uptake can be assayed specifically and used to quantify cholinergic neuronal mechanisms. In general, arteries at the base of the brain in the cat and rabbit were distinguished by high and in the dog by lower ChAT activity and 3H-choline levels of uptake. There was a linear relationship between the mean values of the observations from of the two assays on given cerebral arteries from the three species (r = 0.871,P less than 0.001). Since ChAT activity and HA 3H-choline uptake essentially are confined to cholinergic nerve terminals, our results imply that the Circle of Willis and its main branches in the cat, rabbit, and dog are cholinergically innervated.", "contents": "Biochemical determinations of cholinergic innervation in cerebral arteries. Endogenous choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity and high affinity (HA) 3H-choline uptake can be assayed specifically and used to quantify cholinergic neuronal mechanisms. In general, arteries at the base of the brain in the cat and rabbit were distinguished by high and in the dog by lower ChAT activity and 3H-choline levels of uptake. There was a linear relationship between the mean values of the observations from of the two assays on given cerebral arteries from the three species (r = 0.871,P less than 0.001). Since ChAT activity and HA 3H-choline uptake essentially are confined to cholinergic nerve terminals, our results imply that the Circle of Willis and its main branches in the cat, rabbit, and dog are cholinergically innervated.", "PMID": 445705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7194", "title": "Relationship between adenine nucleotide metabolism and irreversible ischemic tissue damage in isolated perfused rat heart.", "content": "The relationship between energy metabolism and the extent of irreversible ischemic damage was examined in an isolated perfused working rat heart. The amount of cardiac work recovered after reperfusion of hearts exposed to severe global ischemia was dependent upon both the duration of ischemia and the type of substrate provided (either 5 mM glucose or 5 mM glucose + acetate). There appear to be two distinct phases in the ability to recover mechanical function in the reperfused ischemic heart. The second phase corresponds to the onset of severe irreversible tissue damage. Irreversible mitochondrial damage was not found to correspond with the onset of heart failure since the ATP/ADP ratio remained constant in the reperfused myocardium. Furthermore, there does not appear to be a direct correlation between the total ATP content and the extent of irreversible damage, either during ischemia or following reperfusion. However, the total adenine nucleotide content during ischemia showed dramatic changes which correspond temporally with the initiation of the second phase of damage. The observation that the adenine nucleotide pool becomes further depleted during reperfusion suggests that alterations in the salvage pathway for adenine nucleotide synthesis have occurred. Loss of adenine nucleotides appears to be an excellent marker for irreversible heart failure. Acetate provides some protection the the ischemic myocardium. The mechanism by which acetate mediates this protective effect is discussed.", "contents": "Relationship between adenine nucleotide metabolism and irreversible ischemic tissue damage in isolated perfused rat heart. The relationship between energy metabolism and the extent of irreversible ischemic damage was examined in an isolated perfused working rat heart. The amount of cardiac work recovered after reperfusion of hearts exposed to severe global ischemia was dependent upon both the duration of ischemia and the type of substrate provided (either 5 mM glucose or 5 mM glucose + acetate). There appear to be two distinct phases in the ability to recover mechanical function in the reperfused ischemic heart. The second phase corresponds to the onset of severe irreversible tissue damage. Irreversible mitochondrial damage was not found to correspond with the onset of heart failure since the ATP/ADP ratio remained constant in the reperfused myocardium. Furthermore, there does not appear to be a direct correlation between the total ATP content and the extent of irreversible damage, either during ischemia or following reperfusion. However, the total adenine nucleotide content during ischemia showed dramatic changes which correspond temporally with the initiation of the second phase of damage. The observation that the adenine nucleotide pool becomes further depleted during reperfusion suggests that alterations in the salvage pathway for adenine nucleotide synthesis have occurred. Loss of adenine nucleotides appears to be an excellent marker for irreversible heart failure. Acetate provides some protection the the ischemic myocardium. The mechanism by which acetate mediates this protective effect is discussed.", "PMID": 445706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7195", "title": "Electrophysiological study of the action of angiotensin II on the rat myometrium.", "content": "Angiotensin II (A II) produces a contraction of visceral and vascular smooth muscles of different species. The accompanying electrophysiological changes were measured on strips of rat myometrium at 35 degrees C using the double sucrose-gap technique. A II at concentrations from 5 x 10(-10) to 10(-6)M produces a depolarization and an increase in membrane conductance. This increase in membrane conductance is not membrane potential dependent since it is observed even when the membrane potential is maintained at the resting level. When all Na + in the test solution is replaced by either Li + or Mg (2+), the depolarizing effect of 10(-6)M A II is either markedly reduced or abolished. Under these conditions, A II produces a small initial hyperpolarization, which is modified by external potassium concentration changes and abolished by tetraethylammonium chloride. When all Cl- is replaced by either NO (-3) or cyclohexanesulfamate, A II (10(-6) M) still produces a 20-m V depolarization. The removal of extracellular Ca (2+) or K+ does not have any effect on the depolarizing action of A II, which also is not changed by 10(-3) M ouabain. In conclusion, A II produces a depolarization of the uterine smooth muscle membrane through an increase in the membrane conductance to Na+. The membrane conductance to potassium is increased simultaneously. The contraction induced by A II shows two components: a phasic component triggered by the Ca (2+) entry associated with spike production and a tonic component due to the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores.", "contents": "Electrophysiological study of the action of angiotensin II on the rat myometrium. Angiotensin II (A II) produces a contraction of visceral and vascular smooth muscles of different species. The accompanying electrophysiological changes were measured on strips of rat myometrium at 35 degrees C using the double sucrose-gap technique. A II at concentrations from 5 x 10(-10) to 10(-6)M produces a depolarization and an increase in membrane conductance. This increase in membrane conductance is not membrane potential dependent since it is observed even when the membrane potential is maintained at the resting level. When all Na + in the test solution is replaced by either Li + or Mg (2+), the depolarizing effect of 10(-6)M A II is either markedly reduced or abolished. Under these conditions, A II produces a small initial hyperpolarization, which is modified by external potassium concentration changes and abolished by tetraethylammonium chloride. When all Cl- is replaced by either NO (-3) or cyclohexanesulfamate, A II (10(-6) M) still produces a 20-m V depolarization. The removal of extracellular Ca (2+) or K+ does not have any effect on the depolarizing action of A II, which also is not changed by 10(-3) M ouabain. In conclusion, A II produces a depolarization of the uterine smooth muscle membrane through an increase in the membrane conductance to Na+. The membrane conductance to potassium is increased simultaneously. The contraction induced by A II shows two components: a phasic component triggered by the Ca (2+) entry associated with spike production and a tonic component due to the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores.", "PMID": 445707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7196", "title": "Mechanical and morphological properties of arterial resistance vessels in young and old spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "We studied alterations in structural and mechanical properties of mesenteric arterial resistance vessels from young (6-week) and old (50-week) spontaneously hypertensive (SHR)and matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Emphasis was placed upon relating the active tension capabilities of these vessels to their smooth muscle cell content. Cylindrical segments, 0.7 mm long with internal diameters of 150 micrometer, were mounted in a myograph capable of recording circumferential vessel wall tension and dimensions. Comparisons of vessel morphology and mechanics were performed at a normalized internal circumference, L1,where active tension (delta T1) is near maximum. Arterial wall and medial hypertrophy were observed in young and old SHR. Since the percent smooth muscle cells within the media for SHR was similar to that of WKY, both increased smooth muscle cell and connective tissue content account for the medial hypertrophy. These differences in SHR vessels were reflected directly in their passive and active mechanical properties. Fully relaxed vessels from SHR were less compliant, and upon activation at L1 (high potassium depolarization), delta T1 was not different for young SHR and WKY, but values for old SHR were 35% greater (P less than 0.05) than for WKY. When relating the active force generation of the vessel to the actual smooth muscle cell area, values for smooth muscle cell stress (force/area) were similar for SHR and WKY at both ages. In addition, similarities were observed for active dynamic mechanical measurements of Young's modulus and half response time. Genetic hypertension in rats therefore appears to be associated with the development of increased vessel contractility determined by a greater number of smooth muscle cells which possess contractile properties similar to those of normotensive vessels.", "contents": "Mechanical and morphological properties of arterial resistance vessels in young and old spontaneously hypertensive rats. We studied alterations in structural and mechanical properties of mesenteric arterial resistance vessels from young (6-week) and old (50-week) spontaneously hypertensive (SHR)and matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Emphasis was placed upon relating the active tension capabilities of these vessels to their smooth muscle cell content. Cylindrical segments, 0.7 mm long with internal diameters of 150 micrometer, were mounted in a myograph capable of recording circumferential vessel wall tension and dimensions. Comparisons of vessel morphology and mechanics were performed at a normalized internal circumference, L1,where active tension (delta T1) is near maximum. Arterial wall and medial hypertrophy were observed in young and old SHR. Since the percent smooth muscle cells within the media for SHR was similar to that of WKY, both increased smooth muscle cell and connective tissue content account for the medial hypertrophy. These differences in SHR vessels were reflected directly in their passive and active mechanical properties. Fully relaxed vessels from SHR were less compliant, and upon activation at L1 (high potassium depolarization), delta T1 was not different for young SHR and WKY, but values for old SHR were 35% greater (P less than 0.05) than for WKY. When relating the active force generation of the vessel to the actual smooth muscle cell area, values for smooth muscle cell stress (force/area) were similar for SHR and WKY at both ages. In addition, similarities were observed for active dynamic mechanical measurements of Young's modulus and half response time. Genetic hypertension in rats therefore appears to be associated with the development of increased vessel contractility determined by a greater number of smooth muscle cells which possess contractile properties similar to those of normotensive vessels.", "PMID": 445708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7197", "title": "Age-related cardiovascular effects of catecholamines in anesthetized piglets.", "content": "We studied cardiac and peripheral circulatory effects of graded doses of catecholamines (0.05-1.0 microgram/kg) in piglets aged less than or equal to 1 day, 2--4 days, 1 wweek, 2 weeks, and 2.5-3 months, under anesthesia with pentobarbital. We evaluated cardiovascular function from simultaneous recordings of aortic pressure, ventricular pressure and its first derivative, heart rate, and phasic carotid and femoral blood flows. We calculated vascular resistance as the ratio of mean aortic pressure to mean flow. The age of onset of a given cardiovascular response was determined, and magnitudes of each type of response were compared among the age groups. Norepinephrine elevated the blood pressure at all doses in piglets of all ages, elicited reflex bradycardia only in older piglets, and increased carotid resistance. Epinephrine elevated the blood pressure at all doses in piglets less than 1 week old, but low doses lowered the blood pressure in piglets older than 1 week of age; resistance changes in the femoral and carotid circulations were variable except in the 2.5-3 month age group. Isoproterenol increased cardiac contractility at all doses in piglets of all ages and increased heart rate at low doses in piglets older than 2 days of age; however, blood pressure and femoral resistance decreases were age and dose dependent. There were age-related differences in the catecholamine dose required to elicit a given cardiac or peripheral circulatory effect and age-related differences in the direction and magnitude of such effects. These results provide evidence for differing rates of postnatal maturation of cardiovascular alpha- and beta- adrenergic mechanisms in swine.", "contents": "Age-related cardiovascular effects of catecholamines in anesthetized piglets. We studied cardiac and peripheral circulatory effects of graded doses of catecholamines (0.05-1.0 microgram/kg) in piglets aged less than or equal to 1 day, 2--4 days, 1 wweek, 2 weeks, and 2.5-3 months, under anesthesia with pentobarbital. We evaluated cardiovascular function from simultaneous recordings of aortic pressure, ventricular pressure and its first derivative, heart rate, and phasic carotid and femoral blood flows. We calculated vascular resistance as the ratio of mean aortic pressure to mean flow. The age of onset of a given cardiovascular response was determined, and magnitudes of each type of response were compared among the age groups. Norepinephrine elevated the blood pressure at all doses in piglets of all ages, elicited reflex bradycardia only in older piglets, and increased carotid resistance. Epinephrine elevated the blood pressure at all doses in piglets less than 1 week old, but low doses lowered the blood pressure in piglets older than 1 week of age; resistance changes in the femoral and carotid circulations were variable except in the 2.5-3 month age group. Isoproterenol increased cardiac contractility at all doses in piglets of all ages and increased heart rate at low doses in piglets older than 2 days of age; however, blood pressure and femoral resistance decreases were age and dose dependent. There were age-related differences in the catecholamine dose required to elicit a given cardiac or peripheral circulatory effect and age-related differences in the direction and magnitude of such effects. These results provide evidence for differing rates of postnatal maturation of cardiovascular alpha- and beta- adrenergic mechanisms in swine.", "PMID": 445709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7198", "title": "Mechanical and structural correlates of contracture induced by metabolic blockade in cardiac muscle from the rat.", "content": "We performed morphological studies of myocardial contracture to define its nature and relationship to mechanical changes occurring during metabolic blockade. Isolated rat papillary and trabecular muscles were stretched to the apices of their length-tension curves and stimulated to contract isometrically 12 times a minute at a temperature of 28 degrees C. Incomplete and total metabolic blockade were induced by 1 hour of hypoxia (95% N2, 5% CO2) or by hypoxia plus glycolytic blockade with iodoacetic acid, 10-4M, respectively. In oxygenated control preparations, mechanical performance was stable for the 60-minute experimental period. In preparations exposed to hypoxia, developed tension fell to 7 +/- 2% of prehypoxia values at 60 minutes. Contracture tension increased progressively to 2.5 +/- 0.4 g/mm2. With total metabolic blockade, developed tension declined to zero by 10 minutes, contracture tension rose to an average peak value of 5.3 +/- 0.4 g/mm2 by 15 minutes, and subsequently slowly declined. All preparations were fixed at Lmax in the muscle bath. Light and electron microscopic studies revealed focal irregularities of A, I, and Z bands with sarcomere malalignment, hypercontraction, and fiber disruption, which increased in severity with increasing metabolic blockade. Linear densities appeared in mitochondria following total metabolic blockade, but mitochondria appeared normal otherwise. Thus, myocardial contracture after metabolic blockade is a focal process beginning within the sarcomere; morphological alterations in the contractile apparatus correlate with mechanical changes and are more severe than those in the mitochondria.", "contents": "Mechanical and structural correlates of contracture induced by metabolic blockade in cardiac muscle from the rat. We performed morphological studies of myocardial contracture to define its nature and relationship to mechanical changes occurring during metabolic blockade. Isolated rat papillary and trabecular muscles were stretched to the apices of their length-tension curves and stimulated to contract isometrically 12 times a minute at a temperature of 28 degrees C. Incomplete and total metabolic blockade were induced by 1 hour of hypoxia (95% N2, 5% CO2) or by hypoxia plus glycolytic blockade with iodoacetic acid, 10-4M, respectively. In oxygenated control preparations, mechanical performance was stable for the 60-minute experimental period. In preparations exposed to hypoxia, developed tension fell to 7 +/- 2% of prehypoxia values at 60 minutes. Contracture tension increased progressively to 2.5 +/- 0.4 g/mm2. With total metabolic blockade, developed tension declined to zero by 10 minutes, contracture tension rose to an average peak value of 5.3 +/- 0.4 g/mm2 by 15 minutes, and subsequently slowly declined. All preparations were fixed at Lmax in the muscle bath. Light and electron microscopic studies revealed focal irregularities of A, I, and Z bands with sarcomere malalignment, hypercontraction, and fiber disruption, which increased in severity with increasing metabolic blockade. Linear densities appeared in mitochondria following total metabolic blockade, but mitochondria appeared normal otherwise. Thus, myocardial contracture after metabolic blockade is a focal process beginning within the sarcomere; morphological alterations in the contractile apparatus correlate with mechanical changes and are more severe than those in the mitochondria.", "PMID": 445710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7199", "title": "An essential view in coronary arteriography.", "content": "A significant stenosis of the left main coronary artery is associated with a significant mortality and is one of the major indications for aortocoronary bypass surgery. The diagnosis of this lesion on clinical grounds is inconsistent and should be established by angiography. All routine projections during coronary arteriography cause foreshortening of the left main coronary artery. Well-collimated anteroposterior and shallow right and left anterior oblique views show the main segment best. These views also show the proximal segments of circumflex and anterior descending branches, and should be routinely used during every coronary arteriogram.", "contents": "An essential view in coronary arteriography. A significant stenosis of the left main coronary artery is associated with a significant mortality and is one of the major indications for aortocoronary bypass surgery. The diagnosis of this lesion on clinical grounds is inconsistent and should be established by angiography. All routine projections during coronary arteriography cause foreshortening of the left main coronary artery. Well-collimated anteroposterior and shallow right and left anterior oblique views show the main segment best. These views also show the proximal segments of circumflex and anterior descending branches, and should be routinely used during every coronary arteriogram.", "PMID": 445712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7200", "title": "Quantitative coronary angiography: measurement of the \"critical\" stenosis in patients with unstable angina and single-vessel disease without collaterals.", "content": "Quantitative angiographic assessment of proximal coronary artery stenosis was performed in 15 patients with consecutive presentations in two categories defined by clinical and angiographic criteria. Group 1 consisted of 10 patients who had new onset of refractory rest angina and ischemic ST-T changes, but no infarction, single-vessel coronary disease without collateralization, and normal left ventricular (LV) angiograms. Group 2 consisted of five patients who were similar to patients in group 1, but had subendocardial infarction (SEI). Quantitative coronary arteriography, using paired perpendicular angiographic views and digital computation, yielded statistically different lesion dimensions and hemodynamic predictions for the two groups. Minimum stenosis diameters were 0.88 +/- 0.14 (SD) and 0.64 +/- 0.08 mm, respectively, for groups 1 and 2. This corresponded to 72% and 78% diameter reduction and 92% and 95% cross-sectional area reduction for the two groups. These small dimensional differences among lesions in the two groups resulted in large differences in their hemodynamic impact as predicted from classic fluid mechanics theory. We conclude that there are characteristic lesion dimensions for the isolated \"critical\" stenosis in these selected patients with rest angina. Further small increases in lesions severity result in SEI. Certain practical applications and limitations of these observations are discussed.", "contents": "Quantitative coronary angiography: measurement of the \"critical\" stenosis in patients with unstable angina and single-vessel disease without collaterals. Quantitative angiographic assessment of proximal coronary artery stenosis was performed in 15 patients with consecutive presentations in two categories defined by clinical and angiographic criteria. Group 1 consisted of 10 patients who had new onset of refractory rest angina and ischemic ST-T changes, but no infarction, single-vessel coronary disease without collateralization, and normal left ventricular (LV) angiograms. Group 2 consisted of five patients who were similar to patients in group 1, but had subendocardial infarction (SEI). Quantitative coronary arteriography, using paired perpendicular angiographic views and digital computation, yielded statistically different lesion dimensions and hemodynamic predictions for the two groups. Minimum stenosis diameters were 0.88 +/- 0.14 (SD) and 0.64 +/- 0.08 mm, respectively, for groups 1 and 2. This corresponded to 72% and 78% diameter reduction and 92% and 95% cross-sectional area reduction for the two groups. These small dimensional differences among lesions in the two groups resulted in large differences in their hemodynamic impact as predicted from classic fluid mechanics theory. We conclude that there are characteristic lesion dimensions for the isolated \"critical\" stenosis in these selected patients with rest angina. Further small increases in lesions severity result in SEI. Certain practical applications and limitations of these observations are discussed.", "PMID": 445713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7201", "title": "Exercise and human collateralization: an angiographic and scintigraphic assessment.", "content": "The effect of exercise on the development of intercoronary collaterals and on left ventricular function is controversial. Twenty male patients (mean age 48 years, range 36-54 years) who had suffered an acute myocardial infarction were randomly allocated to an exercise group (10 patients) and a control group (10 patients). Both groups underwent coronary angiography, left ventricular function studies and myocardial perfusion studies with labeled microspheres, before and after the 7-month experimental period. Both groups had similar extent of disease as measured angiographically and both had mild progression of disease. Neither group showed changes in extent of callateralization, myocardial perfusion or left ventricular function. The exercise group had a significant increase in anginal threshold and a significant (p less than 0.01) decrease in heart rate at a given work load. Exercise, therefore, does not appear to affect progression of disease, myocardial perfusion, extent of collateralization, or left ventricular function in patients with coronary artery disease.", "contents": "Exercise and human collateralization: an angiographic and scintigraphic assessment. The effect of exercise on the development of intercoronary collaterals and on left ventricular function is controversial. Twenty male patients (mean age 48 years, range 36-54 years) who had suffered an acute myocardial infarction were randomly allocated to an exercise group (10 patients) and a control group (10 patients). Both groups underwent coronary angiography, left ventricular function studies and myocardial perfusion studies with labeled microspheres, before and after the 7-month experimental period. Both groups had similar extent of disease as measured angiographically and both had mild progression of disease. Neither group showed changes in extent of callateralization, myocardial perfusion or left ventricular function. The exercise group had a significant increase in anginal threshold and a significant (p less than 0.01) decrease in heart rate at a given work load. Exercise, therefore, does not appear to affect progression of disease, myocardial perfusion, extent of collateralization, or left ventricular function in patients with coronary artery disease.", "PMID": 445714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7202", "title": "Regional left ventricular function assessed by contrast angiography in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "The relationship of segmental left ventricular (LV) wall motion abnormalities to LV function 2-6 days after acute transmural myocardial infarction (MI) was investigated in 45 patients by quantitative contrast ventriculography. Patients were divided into four classes according to the MIRU criteria. Segmental wall motion was assessed by determining the percentage of systolic shortening (deltaS) along nine hemiaxes and the extent of akinetic or dyskinetic abnormally contracting segments (% ACS) expressed as a percentage of end-diastolic perimeter. When compared with that in 17 normal control-subjects, the LV end-diastolic volume was increased only in patients in class III and class IV; the LV end-systolic volume increased progressively from normal through class IV. Ejection fraction had a negative linear correlation with %ACS (r = 0.97). The size of ACS was larger in anterior (34 +/- 14%) than in inferior MIs (23 +/- 7%), resulting in greater LV dysfunction. However, for a comparable size of ACS, infarct location alone did not influence LV function parameters. In the noninfarcted zone, deltaS was increased when the size of ACS was less than 25% and reduced when the size of ACS was greater than 25%. Thus, the size of ACS is a major determinant of LV dysfunction in acute MI. The compensatory mechanisms operate either through an augmented mechanical function of residual myocardium when the infarct is small, or through the Frank-Starling mechanism when the infarct is large.", "contents": "Regional left ventricular function assessed by contrast angiography in acute myocardial infarction. The relationship of segmental left ventricular (LV) wall motion abnormalities to LV function 2-6 days after acute transmural myocardial infarction (MI) was investigated in 45 patients by quantitative contrast ventriculography. Patients were divided into four classes according to the MIRU criteria. Segmental wall motion was assessed by determining the percentage of systolic shortening (deltaS) along nine hemiaxes and the extent of akinetic or dyskinetic abnormally contracting segments (% ACS) expressed as a percentage of end-diastolic perimeter. When compared with that in 17 normal control-subjects, the LV end-diastolic volume was increased only in patients in class III and class IV; the LV end-systolic volume increased progressively from normal through class IV. Ejection fraction had a negative linear correlation with %ACS (r = 0.97). The size of ACS was larger in anterior (34 +/- 14%) than in inferior MIs (23 +/- 7%), resulting in greater LV dysfunction. However, for a comparable size of ACS, infarct location alone did not influence LV function parameters. In the noninfarcted zone, deltaS was increased when the size of ACS was less than 25% and reduced when the size of ACS was greater than 25%. Thus, the size of ACS is a major determinant of LV dysfunction in acute MI. The compensatory mechanisms operate either through an augmented mechanical function of residual myocardium when the infarct is small, or through the Frank-Starling mechanism when the infarct is large.", "PMID": 445715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7203", "title": "Oxygen consumption and hemodynamic response of exercises used in training of patients with recent myocardial infarction.", "content": "We investigated oxygen consumption (ml/kg/min) and hemodynamic response (peak heart rate-systolic blood pressure product) to individual exercise activities before and after exercise training in 22 male postmyocardial infarction patients (PMIP). Activities included swimming, walk/jogging, volleyball, calisthenics and exercise dance routines. Oxygen consumption was determined immediately after exercise by the Douglas bag gas collection procedure and, in selected patients, by a Max Planck respirometer during exercise. Hemodynamic data were obtained by pulse count and cuff sphygmomanometer. The increase in oxygen consumption and the decrease in rate-pressure product after each activity were significant (p less than or equal to 0.01). There were no differences in oxygen consumption between the Max Planck respirometer technique and collection (Douglas bag method) immediately after exercise. The oxygen consumption obtained for PMIP compared with available cumulative data on normal subjects is significantly variable, suggesting the need for caution when prescribing exercise for the PMIP based on energy costs of standard exercise measurements in normals. This was particularly relevant because of the significantly high oxygen consumption incurred during swimming.", "contents": "Oxygen consumption and hemodynamic response of exercises used in training of patients with recent myocardial infarction. We investigated oxygen consumption (ml/kg/min) and hemodynamic response (peak heart rate-systolic blood pressure product) to individual exercise activities before and after exercise training in 22 male postmyocardial infarction patients (PMIP). Activities included swimming, walk/jogging, volleyball, calisthenics and exercise dance routines. Oxygen consumption was determined immediately after exercise by the Douglas bag gas collection procedure and, in selected patients, by a Max Planck respirometer during exercise. Hemodynamic data were obtained by pulse count and cuff sphygmomanometer. The increase in oxygen consumption and the decrease in rate-pressure product after each activity were significant (p less than or equal to 0.01). There were no differences in oxygen consumption between the Max Planck respirometer technique and collection (Douglas bag method) immediately after exercise. The oxygen consumption obtained for PMIP compared with available cumulative data on normal subjects is significantly variable, suggesting the need for caution when prescribing exercise for the PMIP based on energy costs of standard exercise measurements in normals. This was particularly relevant because of the significantly high oxygen consumption incurred during swimming.", "PMID": 445716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7204", "title": "Effect of extension of infarction on serial CK activity.", "content": "The effects of extension of myocardial infarction by reduction of regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF) to an ischemic region on serum CK activity was examined in 14 awake dogs. Initial infarction was effected by occlusion of the distal left circumflex coronary artery (LCCA) and subsequent extension was produced by occlusion of the proximal LCCA 6, 12 or 18 hours after distal occlusion. Extension was verified by serial measurements of RMBF using radioisotope-labeled microspheres before and after proximal occlusion. Serum CK activity increased initially 2-4 hours after distal coronary occlusion and then increased rapidly and reached peak values 12 hours after occlusion. When the infarction was extended at 6, 12 or 18 hours after initial occlusion, CK appearance was immediately reduced in the 6- and 12-hour experiments, but not in the 18-hour experiments. Extension of infarction at each interval caused delayed increases in CK activity beginning 2-5 hours after proximal occlusion, with peak values occurring 12 hours later. The immediate effects of extension of infarction by reducing blood flow on CK activity are a function of whether the infarcted myocardium continued to release CK, e.g., at 6 and 12 hours after occlusion, or CK release was completed, e.g., 18 hours. The immediate effects of extension of infarction were the result of perfusion on myocardium that is infarcted and continues to release CK, and do not necessarily indicate alterations in the extent of myocardial injury. The delayed effects of proximal and distal occlusion on CK activity were comparable, suggesting that delayed and not immediate alterations in CK activity represent extension of infarction.", "contents": "Effect of extension of infarction on serial CK activity. The effects of extension of myocardial infarction by reduction of regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF) to an ischemic region on serum CK activity was examined in 14 awake dogs. Initial infarction was effected by occlusion of the distal left circumflex coronary artery (LCCA) and subsequent extension was produced by occlusion of the proximal LCCA 6, 12 or 18 hours after distal occlusion. Extension was verified by serial measurements of RMBF using radioisotope-labeled microspheres before and after proximal occlusion. Serum CK activity increased initially 2-4 hours after distal coronary occlusion and then increased rapidly and reached peak values 12 hours after occlusion. When the infarction was extended at 6, 12 or 18 hours after initial occlusion, CK appearance was immediately reduced in the 6- and 12-hour experiments, but not in the 18-hour experiments. Extension of infarction at each interval caused delayed increases in CK activity beginning 2-5 hours after proximal occlusion, with peak values occurring 12 hours later. The immediate effects of extension of infarction by reducing blood flow on CK activity are a function of whether the infarcted myocardium continued to release CK, e.g., at 6 and 12 hours after occlusion, or CK release was completed, e.g., 18 hours. The immediate effects of extension of infarction were the result of perfusion on myocardium that is infarcted and continues to release CK, and do not necessarily indicate alterations in the extent of myocardial injury. The delayed effects of proximal and distal occlusion on CK activity were comparable, suggesting that delayed and not immediate alterations in CK activity represent extension of infarction.", "PMID": 445717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7205", "title": "Venous admixture in human septic shock: comparative effects of blood volume expansion, dopamine infusion and isoproterenol infusion on mismatching of ventilation and pulmonary blood flow in peritonitis.", "content": "A hemodynamic study with blood gas analysis was performed so we could observe changes induced by blood volume expansion, dopamine infusion and isoproterenol infusion in 20 adult patients suffering from peritonitis complicated with septic shock and acute respiratory failure. Blood volume expansion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 1.21/min/m2 to 3.4 +/- 1.31/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (QS/QT) from 27 +/- 14% to 36 +/- 13%; p less than 0.01). Dopamine infusion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 0.9 1/min/m2 to 3.4 +/- 1 l/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (from 25 +/- 11% to 31 +/- 12%, p less than 0.001). Isoproterenol infusion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 0.9 l/min/m2 to 3.6 +/- 1.1 l/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (from 27 +/- 12% to 33 +/- 11%; p less than 0.001). This worsening in mismatching of ventilation and blood flow is correlated with the enhancement in pulmonary blood flow obtained by these three therapeutic procedures.", "contents": "Venous admixture in human septic shock: comparative effects of blood volume expansion, dopamine infusion and isoproterenol infusion on mismatching of ventilation and pulmonary blood flow in peritonitis. A hemodynamic study with blood gas analysis was performed so we could observe changes induced by blood volume expansion, dopamine infusion and isoproterenol infusion in 20 adult patients suffering from peritonitis complicated with septic shock and acute respiratory failure. Blood volume expansion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 1.21/min/m2 to 3.4 +/- 1.31/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (QS/QT) from 27 +/- 14% to 36 +/- 13%; p less than 0.01). Dopamine infusion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 0.9 1/min/m2 to 3.4 +/- 1 l/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (from 25 +/- 11% to 31 +/- 12%, p less than 0.001). Isoproterenol infusion increased cardiac index (from 2.6 +/- 0.9 l/min/m2 to 3.6 +/- 1.1 l/min/m2; p less than 0.001), but also enhanced venous admixture (from 27 +/- 12% to 33 +/- 11%; p less than 0.001). This worsening in mismatching of ventilation and blood flow is correlated with the enhancement in pulmonary blood flow obtained by these three therapeutic procedures.", "PMID": 445718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7206", "title": "The extraction of circulating catecholamines by the lungs in normal man and in patients with pulmonary hypertension.", "content": "We directly measured the net pulmonary extraction of circulating norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine in control patients and patients with primary or secondary pulmonary hypertension. Mixed pulmonary artery norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine were 314 +/- 13 pg/ml, 102 +/- 9 pg/ml, 51 +/- 5 pg/ml, respectively, for the control group; values were similar in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The pulmonary extraction of norepinephrine was 25.4 +/- 2.6% (clearance 266 +/- 62 ng/min) in control patients; epinephrine and dopamine were not extracted. There was no net extraction or production of any of the three catecholamines by the lungs in any of the patients with pulmonary hypertension. We conclude that the lungs play a significant role in the inactivation of circulating norepinephrine in man. This metabolic function of the lungs appear to be lost in pulmonary hypertension.", "contents": "The extraction of circulating catecholamines by the lungs in normal man and in patients with pulmonary hypertension. We directly measured the net pulmonary extraction of circulating norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine in control patients and patients with primary or secondary pulmonary hypertension. Mixed pulmonary artery norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine were 314 +/- 13 pg/ml, 102 +/- 9 pg/ml, 51 +/- 5 pg/ml, respectively, for the control group; values were similar in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The pulmonary extraction of norepinephrine was 25.4 +/- 2.6% (clearance 266 +/- 62 ng/min) in control patients; epinephrine and dopamine were not extracted. There was no net extraction or production of any of the three catecholamines by the lungs in any of the patients with pulmonary hypertension. We conclude that the lungs play a significant role in the inactivation of circulating norepinephrine in man. This metabolic function of the lungs appear to be lost in pulmonary hypertension.", "PMID": 445719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7207", "title": "Dynamic aspects of acute mitral regurgitation: effects of ventricular volume, pressure and contractility on the effective regurgitant orifice area.", "content": "The dynamics of acute mitral regurgitation were studied in six open-chest dogs in whom a portion of the anterior leaflet was excised. Phasic mitral and aortic flows were measured electromagnetically and left ventricular filling volume, regurgitant volume (RV) and forward stroke volume (SV) were calculated. The systolic pressure gradient (SPG) between the left ventricle (LV) and left atrium (LA) was obtained from high-fidelity pressure transducers. The effective mitral regurgitant orifice area (MRA) was calculated from the hydraulic equation of Gorlin. Volume infusion resulted in significant increases in both left atrial and left ventricular pressures; thus, the SPG was unchanged and the increase in RV was due primarily to the increase in MRA. Angiotensin infused to raise arterial pressure resulted in greater increments in left ventricular than left atrial pressure, so that SPG rose significantly. The increase in RV was due to increases in both MRA and SPG. Norepinephrine infusion increased systolic left ventricular pressure and SPG, while left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and left atrial pressure diminished. Despite a significant increase in SPG, RV did not increase, due to a substantial decrease in MRA. Thus, angiotensin and volume infusion induced a substantial increase in regurgitation due to the increase in MRA, while augmentation of contractility after norepinephrine infusion resulted in a decrease in regurgitation through reduction of MRA. These findings support the clinical view that maintaining a small LV with sustained myocardial contractility will reduce mitral regurgitation. Alternatively, left ventricular dilatation can enhance mitral regurgitation by increasing the effective regurgitant orifice independent of SPG.", "contents": "Dynamic aspects of acute mitral regurgitation: effects of ventricular volume, pressure and contractility on the effective regurgitant orifice area. The dynamics of acute mitral regurgitation were studied in six open-chest dogs in whom a portion of the anterior leaflet was excised. Phasic mitral and aortic flows were measured electromagnetically and left ventricular filling volume, regurgitant volume (RV) and forward stroke volume (SV) were calculated. The systolic pressure gradient (SPG) between the left ventricle (LV) and left atrium (LA) was obtained from high-fidelity pressure transducers. The effective mitral regurgitant orifice area (MRA) was calculated from the hydraulic equation of Gorlin. Volume infusion resulted in significant increases in both left atrial and left ventricular pressures; thus, the SPG was unchanged and the increase in RV was due primarily to the increase in MRA. Angiotensin infused to raise arterial pressure resulted in greater increments in left ventricular than left atrial pressure, so that SPG rose significantly. The increase in RV was due to increases in both MRA and SPG. Norepinephrine infusion increased systolic left ventricular pressure and SPG, while left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and left atrial pressure diminished. Despite a significant increase in SPG, RV did not increase, due to a substantial decrease in MRA. Thus, angiotensin and volume infusion induced a substantial increase in regurgitation due to the increase in MRA, while augmentation of contractility after norepinephrine infusion resulted in a decrease in regurgitation through reduction of MRA. These findings support the clinical view that maintaining a small LV with sustained myocardial contractility will reduce mitral regurgitation. Alternatively, left ventricular dilatation can enhance mitral regurgitation by increasing the effective regurgitant orifice independent of SPG.", "PMID": 445720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7208", "title": "Dynamic geometry of the left atrium and left ventricle in acute mitral regurgitation.", "content": "The instantaneous transverse diameter of the left atrium, left ventricular free wall segment length (SEG), and the long axis of the anterior papillary muscle (APM) length were measured throughout the cardiac cycle, using ultrasonic dimension gauges together with left atrial and left ventricular pressures in 12 open-chest dogs. During atrial contraction, left atrial diameter decreased from 19.7 to 18.7 mm, while left ventricular dimensions increased simultaneously. During ventricular ejection, percent shortening was 26% in SEG and 10% in APM, while atrial diameter increased continuously to 20.5 mm, with a concomitant rise in the v wave of left atrial pressure. After normal mitral valve opening, left atrial diameter decreased rapidly simultaneously with the y descent of atrial pressure. Graded mitral regurgitation was then produced by sectioning the chordae tendineae. With moderate mitral regurgitation, end-diastolic length of the SEG increased by 27%, while extent of shortening (delta L) was augmented by 96%. End-diastolic length of the APM increased by 7%, and delta L was augmented by 60%. Left atrial pressure was sharply elevated, with a distinct a wave followed by the more prominent v wave. End-diastolic diameter of the left atrium was enlarged to 22.9 mm with increased atrial shortening and expansion. As mitral regurgitation was increased to a severe degree by additional chordal rupture, end-diastolic length and delta L continued to increase both in SEG and APM. Left atrial pressure was further elevated (a wave 25 mm Hg and v wave 47 mm Hg). Left atrial end-diastolic diameter further increased in 24.9 mm. However, the amplitude of left atrial shortening and expansion decreased remarkably. In severe mitral regurgitation, isoproterenol and nitroprusside decreased left atrial pressure and diameter, restoring more forceful atrial shortening.", "contents": "Dynamic geometry of the left atrium and left ventricle in acute mitral regurgitation. The instantaneous transverse diameter of the left atrium, left ventricular free wall segment length (SEG), and the long axis of the anterior papillary muscle (APM) length were measured throughout the cardiac cycle, using ultrasonic dimension gauges together with left atrial and left ventricular pressures in 12 open-chest dogs. During atrial contraction, left atrial diameter decreased from 19.7 to 18.7 mm, while left ventricular dimensions increased simultaneously. During ventricular ejection, percent shortening was 26% in SEG and 10% in APM, while atrial diameter increased continuously to 20.5 mm, with a concomitant rise in the v wave of left atrial pressure. After normal mitral valve opening, left atrial diameter decreased rapidly simultaneously with the y descent of atrial pressure. Graded mitral regurgitation was then produced by sectioning the chordae tendineae. With moderate mitral regurgitation, end-diastolic length of the SEG increased by 27%, while extent of shortening (delta L) was augmented by 96%. End-diastolic length of the APM increased by 7%, and delta L was augmented by 60%. Left atrial pressure was sharply elevated, with a distinct a wave followed by the more prominent v wave. End-diastolic diameter of the left atrium was enlarged to 22.9 mm with increased atrial shortening and expansion. As mitral regurgitation was increased to a severe degree by additional chordal rupture, end-diastolic length and delta L continued to increase both in SEG and APM. Left atrial pressure was further elevated (a wave 25 mm Hg and v wave 47 mm Hg). Left atrial end-diastolic diameter further increased in 24.9 mm. However, the amplitude of left atrial shortening and expansion decreased remarkably. In severe mitral regurgitation, isoproterenol and nitroprusside decreased left atrial pressure and diameter, restoring more forceful atrial shortening.", "PMID": 445721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7209", "title": "Scaling current and energy with body weight: requirements for the transthoracic ventricular defibrillation of calves as they grow from 50 to 150 kg.", "content": "To test the hypothesis that the effectiveness of a shock in achieving ventricular defibrillation is relatively independent of body weight if electrode diameter is proportional to the one-third power and current is proportional to the two-thirds power of weight, we studied defibrillation rates in 10 calves as they increased weight. At 50 kg, each calf was subjected to 20 fibrillation-defibrillation episodes using 10.3-cm diameter electrodes and 32-amp, 4-msec rectangular pulses for defibrillation. Two days after the original study, each calf underwent 20 additional episodes involving 44-amp pulses. With the specified scaling of electrode diameter and pulse amplitude, the two studies were repeated at weight intervals of 25 kg as the animals grew. Six calves survived. In the study that started with 32-amp pulses, first-shock success values of 28%, 49%, 66%, 51% and 23% were found in the six surviving calves at 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 kg, respectively. The corresponding values were 93%, 96%, 93%, 94% and 91% in the study that started with 44-amp pulses. While the results of the 32-amp study fail to support our initial hypothesis, those obtained in the 44-amp current study appear compatible with the hypothesis.", "contents": "Scaling current and energy with body weight: requirements for the transthoracic ventricular defibrillation of calves as they grow from 50 to 150 kg. To test the hypothesis that the effectiveness of a shock in achieving ventricular defibrillation is relatively independent of body weight if electrode diameter is proportional to the one-third power and current is proportional to the two-thirds power of weight, we studied defibrillation rates in 10 calves as they increased weight. At 50 kg, each calf was subjected to 20 fibrillation-defibrillation episodes using 10.3-cm diameter electrodes and 32-amp, 4-msec rectangular pulses for defibrillation. Two days after the original study, each calf underwent 20 additional episodes involving 44-amp pulses. With the specified scaling of electrode diameter and pulse amplitude, the two studies were repeated at weight intervals of 25 kg as the animals grew. Six calves survived. In the study that started with 32-amp pulses, first-shock success values of 28%, 49%, 66%, 51% and 23% were found in the six surviving calves at 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 kg, respectively. The corresponding values were 93%, 96%, 93%, 94% and 91% in the study that started with 44-amp pulses. While the results of the 32-amp study fail to support our initial hypothesis, those obtained in the 44-amp current study appear compatible with the hypothesis.", "PMID": 445722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7210", "title": "Evolution of QRS-T relationship from birth to adolescence in Frank-lead orthogonal electrocardiograms of 1492 normal children.", "content": "Patterns of evolution of QRS-T relationship were investigated by determining statistical distributions of QRS and STT integral vectors and the ventricular gradient vector in 1492 normal children divided into 12 age groups from birth to the age of 16 years. From birth to the age of 4 days, the ventricular gradient vector shifts posteriorly and to the left due to posterior shift of the STT integral vector and an increase in the spatial angle between QRS and STT integral vectors to a mean value of 103 degrees. These early neonatal changes in QRS-T relationship probably reflect the sudden reduction of hemodynamic load and the subsequent postnatal atrophy of the right ventricle while the left ventricular load slowly increases. The magnitude of the ventricular gradient vector increases from age 3 weeks until about 7 years. The increase appears to be related to a gradual increase in the magnitude of the QRS and STT integral vectors and a drastic decrease in the spatial angle between them. The spatial angle between QRS and STT integral vectors reaches it minimum (22 degrees) in the age group 1.5--4.5 years, suggesting that at that age the average direction of ventricular excitation and repolarization wavefronts are nearly opposite to each other. In addition to the shifting balance between the left and right ventricular hemodynamic load, other factors, such as the maturation of the sympathetic nervous system, may be important in determining spatial gradients in the duration of action potentials, thus influencing the relationship between ventricular excitation and repolarization.", "contents": "Evolution of QRS-T relationship from birth to adolescence in Frank-lead orthogonal electrocardiograms of 1492 normal children. Patterns of evolution of QRS-T relationship were investigated by determining statistical distributions of QRS and STT integral vectors and the ventricular gradient vector in 1492 normal children divided into 12 age groups from birth to the age of 16 years. From birth to the age of 4 days, the ventricular gradient vector shifts posteriorly and to the left due to posterior shift of the STT integral vector and an increase in the spatial angle between QRS and STT integral vectors to a mean value of 103 degrees. These early neonatal changes in QRS-T relationship probably reflect the sudden reduction of hemodynamic load and the subsequent postnatal atrophy of the right ventricle while the left ventricular load slowly increases. The magnitude of the ventricular gradient vector increases from age 3 weeks until about 7 years. The increase appears to be related to a gradual increase in the magnitude of the QRS and STT integral vectors and a drastic decrease in the spatial angle between them. The spatial angle between QRS and STT integral vectors reaches it minimum (22 degrees) in the age group 1.5--4.5 years, suggesting that at that age the average direction of ventricular excitation and repolarization wavefronts are nearly opposite to each other. In addition to the shifting balance between the left and right ventricular hemodynamic load, other factors, such as the maturation of the sympathetic nervous system, may be important in determining spatial gradients in the duration of action potentials, thus influencing the relationship between ventricular excitation and repolarization.", "PMID": 445723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7211", "title": "Right sinus of Valsalva-right atrial fistula secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma: a case report with description of noninvasive diagnostic features.", "content": "A sinus of Valsalva-right atrial fistula secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma is described. Echocardiogrpahy demonstrated diastolic fluttering of the anterior tricuspid valve, suggesting a left-to-right shunt at the level of the right atrium. External jugular venous pulse tracings revealed large alpha waves and attenuation of the y descent. Cardiac catheterization disclosed a fistulous communication between the right sinus of Valsalva and right atrium. After surgical repair of the fistula, the ultrasonic recording and external pulse tracing reverted to normal. We believe this is the first description of such a shunt after blunt thoracic trauma.", "contents": "Right sinus of Valsalva-right atrial fistula secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma: a case report with description of noninvasive diagnostic features. A sinus of Valsalva-right atrial fistula secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma is described. Echocardiogrpahy demonstrated diastolic fluttering of the anterior tricuspid valve, suggesting a left-to-right shunt at the level of the right atrium. External jugular venous pulse tracings revealed large alpha waves and attenuation of the y descent. Cardiac catheterization disclosed a fistulous communication between the right sinus of Valsalva and right atrium. After surgical repair of the fistula, the ultrasonic recording and external pulse tracing reverted to normal. We believe this is the first description of such a shunt after blunt thoracic trauma.", "PMID": 445724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7212", "title": "Left anterior hemiblock obscuring the diagnosis of right bundle branch block in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Thirty cases in which transient left anterior hemiblock (LAHB) obscured the diagnosis of right bundle branch block (RBBB) appearing during the first days of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are presented. Twenty-eight of the patients with AMI had a clear septal wall involvement, while the remaining two had an anterolateral and lateral wall AMI, respectively. These intraventricular conduction defects developed 2-120 hours (mean 64.9 +/- 26 hours) after the acute event, and persisted for 24 hours to 7 days (mean 63.1 +/- 35 hours). The ECG was characterized by a pure LAHB with wide QRS complexes and the presence of RBBB was shown by recording high V1 and right-sided chest leads. The vectorcardiogram was also useful in several cases. The clinical course of this type of bifascicular block was transient and benign, with an in-hospital mortality of 6.7%. No patient developed trifascicular or complete atrioventricular block and, therefore, we conclude that prophylactic installation of a temporary pacemaker is not indicated in this type of bifascicular block. The possible role of extracellular potassium released during acute myocardial necrosis in the pathophysiological mechanism of these blocks is discussed.", "contents": "Left anterior hemiblock obscuring the diagnosis of right bundle branch block in acute myocardial infarction. Thirty cases in which transient left anterior hemiblock (LAHB) obscured the diagnosis of right bundle branch block (RBBB) appearing during the first days of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are presented. Twenty-eight of the patients with AMI had a clear septal wall involvement, while the remaining two had an anterolateral and lateral wall AMI, respectively. These intraventricular conduction defects developed 2-120 hours (mean 64.9 +/- 26 hours) after the acute event, and persisted for 24 hours to 7 days (mean 63.1 +/- 35 hours). The ECG was characterized by a pure LAHB with wide QRS complexes and the presence of RBBB was shown by recording high V1 and right-sided chest leads. The vectorcardiogram was also useful in several cases. The clinical course of this type of bifascicular block was transient and benign, with an in-hospital mortality of 6.7%. No patient developed trifascicular or complete atrioventricular block and, therefore, we conclude that prophylactic installation of a temporary pacemaker is not indicated in this type of bifascicular block. The possible role of extracellular potassium released during acute myocardial necrosis in the pathophysiological mechanism of these blocks is discussed.", "PMID": 445729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7213", "title": "Significance of chronic bifascicular block without apparent organic heart disease.", "content": "Eighty-six of 452 patients (19%) with chronic bifascicular block were found to have no clinically apparent associated organic heart disease (OHD) and were defined as having primary conduction disease (PCD). Comparison of patients with PCD and OHD revealed a significantly lower incidence of the following clinical variables in the PCD patients (p less than 0.001): exertional angina, dyspnea, congestive heart failure, cardiomegaly, functional class I (all by study design), left bundle branch block and premature ventricular contractions. Both mean AH and HV intervals were significantly shorter in patients with PCD (p less than 0.01). The incidence of HV prolongation was 21% in PCD and 41% in OHD patients (p less than 0.001). All patients were prospectively followed for 21-2998 days with a mean +/- SEM of 1209 +/- 66 days for PCD and 1172 +/- 36 days for OHD. Atrioventricular (AV) block developed in three patients from the PCD group and 26 from the OHD group (NS), with spontaneous block occurring in one (1%) PCD patient and 19 (5%) OHD patients (p less than 0.05). Annual mortality due to sudden death as well as total cardiovascular mortality (including sudden death) for the 5-year follow-up was significantly lower in patients with PCD. Patients with PCD have significantly lower incidence of electrophysiologic abnormalities and subsequent spontaneous AV block as well as cardiovascular and sudden death mortality. The diagnosis of PCD based on clinical criteria probably underestimates the presence of underlying OHD, as suggested by a small but definite risk of cardiovascular mortality.", "contents": "Significance of chronic bifascicular block without apparent organic heart disease. Eighty-six of 452 patients (19%) with chronic bifascicular block were found to have no clinically apparent associated organic heart disease (OHD) and were defined as having primary conduction disease (PCD). Comparison of patients with PCD and OHD revealed a significantly lower incidence of the following clinical variables in the PCD patients (p less than 0.001): exertional angina, dyspnea, congestive heart failure, cardiomegaly, functional class I (all by study design), left bundle branch block and premature ventricular contractions. Both mean AH and HV intervals were significantly shorter in patients with PCD (p less than 0.01). The incidence of HV prolongation was 21% in PCD and 41% in OHD patients (p less than 0.001). All patients were prospectively followed for 21-2998 days with a mean +/- SEM of 1209 +/- 66 days for PCD and 1172 +/- 36 days for OHD. Atrioventricular (AV) block developed in three patients from the PCD group and 26 from the OHD group (NS), with spontaneous block occurring in one (1%) PCD patient and 19 (5%) OHD patients (p less than 0.05). Annual mortality due to sudden death as well as total cardiovascular mortality (including sudden death) for the 5-year follow-up was significantly lower in patients with PCD. Patients with PCD have significantly lower incidence of electrophysiologic abnormalities and subsequent spontaneous AV block as well as cardiovascular and sudden death mortality. The diagnosis of PCD based on clinical criteria probably underestimates the presence of underlying OHD, as suggested by a small but definite risk of cardiovascular mortality.", "PMID": 445730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7214", "title": "Platelet survival time and thromboembolism in patients with mitral valve prolapse.", "content": "Thromboembolism (TE) occurs in about 20% of patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease, and platelet survival time in these patients has correlated with TE. In patients with mitral valve prolapse, TE appears to occur very infrequently. Platelet survival (autologous labeling with chromium-51) was performed in 26 patients with mitral prolapse. Five patients had a history of stroke, as well as normal cerebrovascular arteriography and shortened platelet survival (average half-time +/- SEM 2.3 +/- 0.18 days; normal half-time 3.7 +/- 0.03 days; n = 26; p less than 0.01). Platelet survival was shortened in seven of 21 patients without TE (33%) (3.3 +/- 0.06 days; p less than 0.01 vs patients with TE). In 138 patients with rheumatic heart disease, platelet survival was shortened in 40 of 41 (98%) with a history of TE (2.3 +/- 0.08 days) and in 76 of 97 (78%) without TE (2.9 +/- 0.07 days; p less than 0.001 vs patients with TE). In patients with mitral prolapse, sulfinpyrazone increased platelet survival (2.4 +/- 0.16 to 2.7 +/- 0.19 days; n = 7; p less than 0.05). Our results suggest that platelet survival time is shortened in patients with mitral prolapse and rheumatic heart disease who have had TE. Of those without TE there is an increased frequency of shortened platelet survival in patients with rheumatic heart disease (78%) compared with those with mitral prolapse (33%), consistent with the infrequency of TE in mitral prolapse.", "contents": "Platelet survival time and thromboembolism in patients with mitral valve prolapse. Thromboembolism (TE) occurs in about 20% of patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease, and platelet survival time in these patients has correlated with TE. In patients with mitral valve prolapse, TE appears to occur very infrequently. Platelet survival (autologous labeling with chromium-51) was performed in 26 patients with mitral prolapse. Five patients had a history of stroke, as well as normal cerebrovascular arteriography and shortened platelet survival (average half-time +/- SEM 2.3 +/- 0.18 days; normal half-time 3.7 +/- 0.03 days; n = 26; p less than 0.01). Platelet survival was shortened in seven of 21 patients without TE (33%) (3.3 +/- 0.06 days; p less than 0.01 vs patients with TE). In 138 patients with rheumatic heart disease, platelet survival was shortened in 40 of 41 (98%) with a history of TE (2.3 +/- 0.08 days) and in 76 of 97 (78%) without TE (2.9 +/- 0.07 days; p less than 0.001 vs patients with TE). In patients with mitral prolapse, sulfinpyrazone increased platelet survival (2.4 +/- 0.16 to 2.7 +/- 0.19 days; n = 7; p less than 0.05). Our results suggest that platelet survival time is shortened in patients with mitral prolapse and rheumatic heart disease who have had TE. Of those without TE there is an increased frequency of shortened platelet survival in patients with rheumatic heart disease (78%) compared with those with mitral prolapse (33%), consistent with the infrequency of TE in mitral prolapse.", "PMID": 445732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7215", "title": "Impaired left ventricular function in chronic aortic valve disease: survival and function after replacement by Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley prosthesis.", "content": "Postoperative survival and left ventricular function were studied in 128 patients who underwent isolated aortic valve replacement by the Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley valve between 1973 and 1977. The average follow-up was 2.1 years. Patients with associated coronary artery disease or mitral valve disease were excluded. Preoperative ejection fraction ranged from 15-84%. Forty-two patients were restudied by cardiac catheterization 9.1 +/- 1.1 months (mean +/- SEM) after valve replacement. The hospital mortality was 11%. Preoperative type of valve lesion, functional class, cardiothoracic ratio, and ejection fraction (EF) had no significant effect on postoperative survival up to 4 years. After operation, left ventricular mass (LVMI) and peak systolic wall stress (PSWS) fell significantly, while EF and mean normalized systolic ejection rate (MNSER) increased in aortic stenosis and in aortic insufficiency. Neither in aortic stenosis nor in aortic insufficiency was there a significant relation between preoperative ejection fraction and postoperative LVMI, EF, MNSER and PSWS. We attributed this to a marked improvement of left ventricular function in patients with preoperative impaired ventricular function. Six patients with paravalvular leak to restudy has a significantly lower EF and MNSER, and a higher PSWS than patients without leak. Patients without leak had normal EF, MNSER and PSWS when compared with 10 normal persons, but LVMI remained moderately elevated. Postoperative transprosthetic gradient was 11.9 mm Hg (range 0-64 mm Hg). We conclude that impaired cardiac function is completely restored after aortic valve replacement by Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley valve, if valve function is good. Patients with impaired cardiac function preoperatively did not have a poorer prognosis after operation than patients with normal function.", "contents": "Impaired left ventricular function in chronic aortic valve disease: survival and function after replacement by Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley prosthesis. Postoperative survival and left ventricular function were studied in 128 patients who underwent isolated aortic valve replacement by the Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley valve between 1973 and 1977. The average follow-up was 2.1 years. Patients with associated coronary artery disease or mitral valve disease were excluded. Preoperative ejection fraction ranged from 15-84%. Forty-two patients were restudied by cardiac catheterization 9.1 +/- 1.1 months (mean +/- SEM) after valve replacement. The hospital mortality was 11%. Preoperative type of valve lesion, functional class, cardiothoracic ratio, and ejection fraction (EF) had no significant effect on postoperative survival up to 4 years. After operation, left ventricular mass (LVMI) and peak systolic wall stress (PSWS) fell significantly, while EF and mean normalized systolic ejection rate (MNSER) increased in aortic stenosis and in aortic insufficiency. Neither in aortic stenosis nor in aortic insufficiency was there a significant relation between preoperative ejection fraction and postoperative LVMI, EF, MNSER and PSWS. We attributed this to a marked improvement of left ventricular function in patients with preoperative impaired ventricular function. Six patients with paravalvular leak to restudy has a significantly lower EF and MNSER, and a higher PSWS than patients without leak. Patients without leak had normal EF, MNSER and PSWS when compared with 10 normal persons, but LVMI remained moderately elevated. Postoperative transprosthetic gradient was 11.9 mm Hg (range 0-64 mm Hg). We conclude that impaired cardiac function is completely restored after aortic valve replacement by Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley valve, if valve function is good. Patients with impaired cardiac function preoperatively did not have a poorer prognosis after operation than patients with normal function.", "PMID": 445734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7216", "title": "Status of patients 5 or more years after correction of coarctation of the aorta over age 1 year.", "content": "In this retrospective study, we reviewed the records of patients who had coarctectomies at the University of Virginia Hospital after 1 year of age. Follow-up data for 5 years or more after surgery were available for 52 patients. Data from 23 similar patients from the Medical College of Virginia brought the total postoperative sample size to 75. The blood pressure of this group of patients did not differ significantly from that of the population at large. We conclude that successful repair of coarctation of the aorta in childhood or early adolescence does not lead to a higher-than-expected incidence of resting hypertension in childhood.", "contents": "Status of patients 5 or more years after correction of coarctation of the aorta over age 1 year. In this retrospective study, we reviewed the records of patients who had coarctectomies at the University of Virginia Hospital after 1 year of age. Follow-up data for 5 years or more after surgery were available for 52 patients. Data from 23 similar patients from the Medical College of Virginia brought the total postoperative sample size to 75. The blood pressure of this group of patients did not differ significantly from that of the population at large. We conclude that successful repair of coarctation of the aorta in childhood or early adolescence does not lead to a higher-than-expected incidence of resting hypertension in childhood.", "PMID": 445735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7217", "title": "Subxiphoid two-dimensional imaging of the interatrial septum in infants and neonates with congenital heart disease.", "content": "The interatrial septum (IAS) was studied by subxiphoid two-dimensional echocardiography (S2DE) in 88 infants under 12 months of age who weighed 1.2-9.1 kg. The IAS was adequately displayed in 87 of 88 patients. The morphology, presence and localization of defects in the IAS were evaluated by S2DE and retrospectively related to the findings at cardiac catheterization. In seven patients with no interatrial communication at cardiac catheterization, the IAS was straight, with an area of central thinning corresponding to the veil-like cover of the septum primum over the foramen ovale. The morphology of the IAS with a stretched, patent foramen ovale (56 patients) indicated the coexistence of a right or left ventricular volume or pressure overload, and was readily distinguishable from the IAS with a secundum type communication (13 patients). In patients with a stretched, patent foramen ovale and left ventricular overload lesions, the IAS was a nearly homogenous, curvilinear structure bowing into the right atrium, with a small area of septal dropout at the superior rim of the septum primum. In the presence of right ventricular overload lesions, the central defect of the foramen ovale was associated with a redundant flap valve of the septum primum billowing into the left atrium. In secundum type communications, the centrally located defect represented a deficiency rather than a redundancy of the septum primum. Balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) in 17 patients produced a secundum-type defect bordered by the flail remnants of the torn septum primum. Blalock-Hanlon septectomy (two patients) resulted in a large, posterior, sinus venosus-type communication which incorporated the preexisting BAS. Ostium primum defects (seven patients) were distinguished from the secundum lesions by their eccentric position in the IAS adjacent to the atrioventricular ring.", "contents": "Subxiphoid two-dimensional imaging of the interatrial septum in infants and neonates with congenital heart disease. The interatrial septum (IAS) was studied by subxiphoid two-dimensional echocardiography (S2DE) in 88 infants under 12 months of age who weighed 1.2-9.1 kg. The IAS was adequately displayed in 87 of 88 patients. The morphology, presence and localization of defects in the IAS were evaluated by S2DE and retrospectively related to the findings at cardiac catheterization. In seven patients with no interatrial communication at cardiac catheterization, the IAS was straight, with an area of central thinning corresponding to the veil-like cover of the septum primum over the foramen ovale. The morphology of the IAS with a stretched, patent foramen ovale (56 patients) indicated the coexistence of a right or left ventricular volume or pressure overload, and was readily distinguishable from the IAS with a secundum type communication (13 patients). In patients with a stretched, patent foramen ovale and left ventricular overload lesions, the IAS was a nearly homogenous, curvilinear structure bowing into the right atrium, with a small area of septal dropout at the superior rim of the septum primum. In the presence of right ventricular overload lesions, the central defect of the foramen ovale was associated with a redundant flap valve of the septum primum billowing into the left atrium. In secundum type communications, the centrally located defect represented a deficiency rather than a redundancy of the septum primum. Balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) in 17 patients produced a secundum-type defect bordered by the flail remnants of the torn septum primum. Blalock-Hanlon septectomy (two patients) resulted in a large, posterior, sinus venosus-type communication which incorporated the preexisting BAS. Ostium primum defects (seven patients) were distinguished from the secundum lesions by their eccentric position in the IAS adjacent to the atrioventricular ring.", "PMID": 445736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7218", "title": "Determination of right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "No data are available on determining right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography. We performed two-dimensional echocardiograms on eight human right-heart casts obtained at autopsy and on 50 patients who underwent complete left- and right-heart catheterization. Measurement of individual dimensions of the long and short axes of the right atrium and ventricle from right heart casts closely correlated with the volume of these structures as determined by water displacement. Further, individual dimensions by cross-sectional echo correlated well with actual casts dimensions. Subsequently, echocardiographic measurements of right atrial and ventricular long and short axes were obtained in the apical four-chambered view in a group of normals and compared with a group of patients with right ventricular volume overload states. Mean values for right atrial short-axis and long-axis measurements were greater in right ventricular volume overload patients than in normals: 6.5 +/- 0.3 vs 3.6 +/- 0.1 cm, and 6.0 +/- 0.3 vs 4.2 +/- 0.1 cm, respectively (both p less than 0.001). In addition, measurements of both individual dimensions as well as planed area of the right ventricle were greater in right ventricular volume overload patients than in normals: maximal short axis 6.1 +/- 0.3 vs 3.5 +/- 0.2 cm, mid-short axis 6.1 %/- 0.4 vs 2.8 +/- 0.2 cm, and area 40 +/- 2.6 vs 18 +/- 1.2 cm2 (all p less than 0.001). There were no differences in right ventricular long-axis measurement. Two-dimensional echocardiography provided better separation of normals from right ventricular volume overload patients than did M-mode techniques. Thus, two-dimensional echocardiography, with the apical four-chambered view, enables accurate visualization of the right atrium and ventricle in almost all patients. Futher, measurements of right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography readily distinguish normal patients from those with right ventricular volume overload.", "contents": "Determination of right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography. No data are available on determining right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography. We performed two-dimensional echocardiograms on eight human right-heart casts obtained at autopsy and on 50 patients who underwent complete left- and right-heart catheterization. Measurement of individual dimensions of the long and short axes of the right atrium and ventricle from right heart casts closely correlated with the volume of these structures as determined by water displacement. Further, individual dimensions by cross-sectional echo correlated well with actual casts dimensions. Subsequently, echocardiographic measurements of right atrial and ventricular long and short axes were obtained in the apical four-chambered view in a group of normals and compared with a group of patients with right ventricular volume overload states. Mean values for right atrial short-axis and long-axis measurements were greater in right ventricular volume overload patients than in normals: 6.5 +/- 0.3 vs 3.6 +/- 0.1 cm, and 6.0 +/- 0.3 vs 4.2 +/- 0.1 cm, respectively (both p less than 0.001). In addition, measurements of both individual dimensions as well as planed area of the right ventricle were greater in right ventricular volume overload patients than in normals: maximal short axis 6.1 +/- 0.3 vs 3.5 +/- 0.2 cm, mid-short axis 6.1 %/- 0.4 vs 2.8 +/- 0.2 cm, and area 40 +/- 2.6 vs 18 +/- 1.2 cm2 (all p less than 0.001). There were no differences in right ventricular long-axis measurement. Two-dimensional echocardiography provided better separation of normals from right ventricular volume overload patients than did M-mode techniques. Thus, two-dimensional echocardiography, with the apical four-chambered view, enables accurate visualization of the right atrium and ventricle in almost all patients. Futher, measurements of right atrial and right ventricular size by two-dimensional echocardiography readily distinguish normal patients from those with right ventricular volume overload.", "PMID": 445737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7219", "title": "Factors influencing the success of ventricular defibrillation in man.", "content": "To define the factors influencing the success of emergency ventricular defibrillation, we identified 52 patients defibrillated at the University of Iowa Hospital during 1974--1976. Thirty-eight patients were successfully defibrillated at least once; 14 could not be defibrillated, despite multiple attempts. Comparisons between these groups revealed no significant differences in body weight, heart weight, energy per kilogram of body weight and energy per gram of heart weight. Factors that militated against successful defibrillation included a prolonged delay before the first defibrillatory shock (successful 7 +/- 7 minutes (SD); unsuccessful 17 +/- 13 minutes, p less than 0.001), acidosis (successful pH 7.36 +/- 0.22; unsuccessful pH 7.23 +/- 0.12, p = 0.05) and hypoxia (successful PO2 100 + 98 torr; unsuccessful PO2 40 +/- 67 torr; p = 0.06). These three conditions tended to occur together in individual patients. Metabolic factors are important in determining defibrillation success; however, the role of high-energy doses is uncertain.", "contents": "Factors influencing the success of ventricular defibrillation in man. To define the factors influencing the success of emergency ventricular defibrillation, we identified 52 patients defibrillated at the University of Iowa Hospital during 1974--1976. Thirty-eight patients were successfully defibrillated at least once; 14 could not be defibrillated, despite multiple attempts. Comparisons between these groups revealed no significant differences in body weight, heart weight, energy per kilogram of body weight and energy per gram of heart weight. Factors that militated against successful defibrillation included a prolonged delay before the first defibrillatory shock (successful 7 +/- 7 minutes (SD); unsuccessful 17 +/- 13 minutes, p less than 0.001), acidosis (successful pH 7.36 +/- 0.22; unsuccessful pH 7.23 +/- 0.12, p = 0.05) and hypoxia (successful PO2 100 + 98 torr; unsuccessful PO2 40 +/- 67 torr; p = 0.06). These three conditions tended to occur together in individual patients. Metabolic factors are important in determining defibrillation success; however, the role of high-energy doses is uncertain.", "PMID": 445740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7220", "title": "Determinants of ventricular defibrillation in adults.", "content": "Conventional defibrillators which stored no more than 400 J and used damped sine wave pulses defibrillated 240 of 253 (95%) episodes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in 94 prospectively assessed resuscitations in 88 adults. Shocks of 80--240 J (under 3 J/kg) delivered to the chest wall defibrillated more often than higher energy levels. Defibrillation rate did not correlate with weight. Defibrillation was determined by the diagnosis and setting in which VF occurred. Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and primary VF or with coronary disease and no AMI defibrillated more easily than patients with AMI and secondary VF or with no coronary disease. VF in a terminal patient (agonal VF) defibrillated less often than VF in other clinical situations. Age, weight, delivered energy, duration of pulse wave, and duration of VF had little, if any, influence on rate of defibrillation. These data fail to support the use of more expensive, high-output defibrillators sold by 11 or 14 American manufactures.", "contents": "Determinants of ventricular defibrillation in adults. Conventional defibrillators which stored no more than 400 J and used damped sine wave pulses defibrillated 240 of 253 (95%) episodes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in 94 prospectively assessed resuscitations in 88 adults. Shocks of 80--240 J (under 3 J/kg) delivered to the chest wall defibrillated more often than higher energy levels. Defibrillation rate did not correlate with weight. Defibrillation was determined by the diagnosis and setting in which VF occurred. Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and primary VF or with coronary disease and no AMI defibrillated more easily than patients with AMI and secondary VF or with no coronary disease. VF in a terminal patient (agonal VF) defibrillated less often than VF in other clinical situations. Age, weight, delivered energy, duration of pulse wave, and duration of VF had little, if any, influence on rate of defibrillation. These data fail to support the use of more expensive, high-output defibrillators sold by 11 or 14 American manufactures.", "PMID": 445741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7221", "title": "Emergency coronary artery revascularization: a possible therapy for acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Cardiac muscle death caused by coronary artery occlusion is a dynamic process that often takes hours or days. Emergency revascularization (saphenous vein bypass graft (SVBG) during acute myocardial infarction (MI) can interrupt myocardial necrosis, salvage ischemic myocardium and revascularize vessels with obstructive lesions not involved in the MI. In this report we describe a preliminary experimental study of 75 patients in which emergency SVBG was the therapy for acute MI. Group 1, 16 patients, required vasoactive medications and/or intraaortic balloon pumping to maintain their blood pressure preoperatively. There was one operative death and two late deaths. Group 2 consisted of 59 hemodynamically stable patients. There were no deaths. The average preop CPK in group 1 was 892 vs 504 in group 2 (p greater than 0.05). Surgical techniques were routine. The average time from the onset of chest pain that continued to surgery was 6.5 hours. Forty patients were restudied. Post- vs presurgical hemodynamics revealed ejection fraction increased by 34% (p greater than 0.05), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure reduced by 40% (p greater than 0.01). End-systolic and end-diastolic volume reduced by 30% (p greater than 0.05), and 15% (p greater than 0.01), and stroke volume improved 25% (p greater than 0.05). Operative mortality was 1.3% and late mortality 2.8%. These results suggest that cautious continued trial of emergency SVBG in patients with evolving MI is warranted.", "contents": "Emergency coronary artery revascularization: a possible therapy for acute myocardial infarction. Cardiac muscle death caused by coronary artery occlusion is a dynamic process that often takes hours or days. Emergency revascularization (saphenous vein bypass graft (SVBG) during acute myocardial infarction (MI) can interrupt myocardial necrosis, salvage ischemic myocardium and revascularize vessels with obstructive lesions not involved in the MI. In this report we describe a preliminary experimental study of 75 patients in which emergency SVBG was the therapy for acute MI. Group 1, 16 patients, required vasoactive medications and/or intraaortic balloon pumping to maintain their blood pressure preoperatively. There was one operative death and two late deaths. Group 2 consisted of 59 hemodynamically stable patients. There were no deaths. The average preop CPK in group 1 was 892 vs 504 in group 2 (p greater than 0.05). Surgical techniques were routine. The average time from the onset of chest pain that continued to surgery was 6.5 hours. Forty patients were restudied. Post- vs presurgical hemodynamics revealed ejection fraction increased by 34% (p greater than 0.05), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure reduced by 40% (p greater than 0.01). End-systolic and end-diastolic volume reduced by 30% (p greater than 0.05), and 15% (p greater than 0.01), and stroke volume improved 25% (p greater than 0.05). Operative mortality was 1.3% and late mortality 2.8%. These results suggest that cautious continued trial of emergency SVBG in patients with evolving MI is warranted.", "PMID": 445742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7222", "title": "Evaluation of myocardial ischemic damage of various ages by computerized transmission tomography. Time-dependent effects of contrast material.", "content": "The potential role of computerized transmission tomography (CTT) in the detection and quantitation of acute myocardial ischemic damage was assessed in 42 excised canine hearts at 2 hours, 8 hours, and 48 hours after coronary occlusion. The CTT scan detected by myocardial damage that was 2-48 hours old each time the presence of regional ischemia was confirmed by histochemical straining or epicardial electrocardiographic mapping. Intravenous administration of contrast material enhanced the x-ray attenuation of areas of ischemic damage of 8 and 48 hours duration compared with normal myocardium, but enhanced only normal myocardium in those of 2 hours duration. Volumetric estimation of the extent of damage from the CTT scans in dogs with ischemia of 48 hours duration showed a close linear relationship with the morphometric volume in the absence of contrast material. Quantitation of the area of ischemic damage from the CTT scan after contrast administration resulted in substantial underestimation of the volume of damaged tissue.", "contents": "Evaluation of myocardial ischemic damage of various ages by computerized transmission tomography. Time-dependent effects of contrast material. The potential role of computerized transmission tomography (CTT) in the detection and quantitation of acute myocardial ischemic damage was assessed in 42 excised canine hearts at 2 hours, 8 hours, and 48 hours after coronary occlusion. The CTT scan detected by myocardial damage that was 2-48 hours old each time the presence of regional ischemia was confirmed by histochemical straining or epicardial electrocardiographic mapping. Intravenous administration of contrast material enhanced the x-ray attenuation of areas of ischemic damage of 8 and 48 hours duration compared with normal myocardium, but enhanced only normal myocardium in those of 2 hours duration. Volumetric estimation of the extent of damage from the CTT scans in dogs with ischemia of 48 hours duration showed a close linear relationship with the morphometric volume in the absence of contrast material. Quantitation of the area of ischemic damage from the CTT scan after contrast administration resulted in substantial underestimation of the volume of damaged tissue.", "PMID": 445746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7223", "title": "Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy after cardiopulmonary resuscitation with cardioversion.", "content": "Thirty consecutive patients underwent technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy 48--72 hours after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation and direct current cardioversion. Five patients with transmural myocardial infarctions by ECG and enzyme determinations were correctly identified by scintigraphy. Myocardial scans were positive in five of nine patients with nontransmural infarction. Of 16 patients without evidence of myocardial infarction, only two (13%) had false-positive myocardial scans. The overall accuracy of imaging in this series was 80%. We conclude that false-positive scans after cardiopulmonary resuscitation with electrical cardioversion are infrequent, and do not significantly detract from the value of myocardial scintigraphy in the diagnosis of myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy after cardiopulmonary resuscitation with cardioversion. Thirty consecutive patients underwent technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy 48--72 hours after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation and direct current cardioversion. Five patients with transmural myocardial infarctions by ECG and enzyme determinations were correctly identified by scintigraphy. Myocardial scans were positive in five of nine patients with nontransmural infarction. Of 16 patients without evidence of myocardial infarction, only two (13%) had false-positive myocardial scans. The overall accuracy of imaging in this series was 80%. We conclude that false-positive scans after cardiopulmonary resuscitation with electrical cardioversion are infrequent, and do not significantly detract from the value of myocardial scintigraphy in the diagnosis of myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 445747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7224", "title": "Imaging experimental myocardial infarction with indium-111-labeled autologous leukocytes: effects of infarct age and residual regional myocardial blood flow.", "content": "The external imaging patterns and the kinetics of infiltration of indium-111 labeled polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) occurring in the course of the inflammatory response associated with myocardial infarction were studied in dogs subjected to closed-chest anterior wall infarction. The effects of infarct age and regional residual myocardial blood flow upon PMN infiltration were investigated and quantified, and the capacity of indium-111 PMNs to image the experimental infarction was evaluated qualitatively. The epicardial accumulation of indium-111 PMNs occurred primarily in infarct zones with residual blood flow of 0.6 times normal and was maximal (14.8 +/- 3.8 times normal) in the lowest blood flow zone (less than 0.1 times normal). PMN accumulation in the endocardial infarct zones occurred in the regions with blood flow less than 0.6 times normal and was maximal (26.8 +/- 4.9 times normal) in the lowest blood flow zone. However, contrary to the maximal epicardial infiltration period, which occurred within the first 24 hours after infarction, the maximal endocardial infiltration occurred at 72 hours after infarction. In both endocardium and epicardium, PMN uptake was minimal at 120 hours after infarction. In vivo cardiac images were abnormal and revealed discrete, anatomically distinct areas of increased myocardial radioactivity uptake in the anterior wall of all dogs studied within 24--96 hours after infarction. All images obtained 120 hours after infarction were negative. Thus, indium-111 PMNs provide a noninvasive means of in vivo imaging of the inflammatory response to myocardial infarction and allow quantification of this response at a tissue level.", "contents": "Imaging experimental myocardial infarction with indium-111-labeled autologous leukocytes: effects of infarct age and residual regional myocardial blood flow. The external imaging patterns and the kinetics of infiltration of indium-111 labeled polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) occurring in the course of the inflammatory response associated with myocardial infarction were studied in dogs subjected to closed-chest anterior wall infarction. The effects of infarct age and regional residual myocardial blood flow upon PMN infiltration were investigated and quantified, and the capacity of indium-111 PMNs to image the experimental infarction was evaluated qualitatively. The epicardial accumulation of indium-111 PMNs occurred primarily in infarct zones with residual blood flow of 0.6 times normal and was maximal (14.8 +/- 3.8 times normal) in the lowest blood flow zone (less than 0.1 times normal). PMN accumulation in the endocardial infarct zones occurred in the regions with blood flow less than 0.6 times normal and was maximal (26.8 +/- 4.9 times normal) in the lowest blood flow zone. However, contrary to the maximal epicardial infiltration period, which occurred within the first 24 hours after infarction, the maximal endocardial infiltration occurred at 72 hours after infarction. In both endocardium and epicardium, PMN uptake was minimal at 120 hours after infarction. In vivo cardiac images were abnormal and revealed discrete, anatomically distinct areas of increased myocardial radioactivity uptake in the anterior wall of all dogs studied within 24--96 hours after infarction. All images obtained 120 hours after infarction were negative. Thus, indium-111 PMNs provide a noninvasive means of in vivo imaging of the inflammatory response to myocardial infarction and allow quantification of this response at a tissue level.", "PMID": 445748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7225", "title": "Measurement of aortic and mitral regurgitation by gated cardiac blood pool scans.", "content": "A simple, noninvasive radionuclide technique which measures the severity of valvular regurgitation has been developed. The technique compares right and left ventricular stroke volume indices (change in counts between diastole and systole over the left and right ventricles) from 45 degrees LAO gated cardiac blood pool scans. In 14 control subjects, the left-to-right ventricular stroke index ratio was near unity (1.15 +/- 0.15 [SD]). In 26 patients with mitral and/or aortic regurgitation it was larger (range 1.36--5.30, mean 2.44). Comparison between the stroke index ratio and qualitative angiographic estimates of regurgitation revealed good agreement (F = 45.5, p less than 0.001). Gated cardiac blood pool scans permit noninvasive assessment of the severity of valvular regurgitation.", "contents": "Measurement of aortic and mitral regurgitation by gated cardiac blood pool scans. A simple, noninvasive radionuclide technique which measures the severity of valvular regurgitation has been developed. The technique compares right and left ventricular stroke volume indices (change in counts between diastole and systole over the left and right ventricles) from 45 degrees LAO gated cardiac blood pool scans. In 14 control subjects, the left-to-right ventricular stroke index ratio was near unity (1.15 +/- 0.15 [SD]). In 26 patients with mitral and/or aortic regurgitation it was larger (range 1.36--5.30, mean 2.44). Comparison between the stroke index ratio and qualitative angiographic estimates of regurgitation revealed good agreement (F = 45.5, p less than 0.001). Gated cardiac blood pool scans permit noninvasive assessment of the severity of valvular regurgitation.", "PMID": 445749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7226", "title": "Accurate volume determination in the isolated ejecting canine left ventricle by two-dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "Two-dimensional echocardiography can provide serial cross-sectional images of the left ventricular cavity. We examined whether such serial images from steady-state ejecting hearts would allow three-dimensional reconstruction and accurate volume estimation without major geometric assumptions. Cross-circulated, paced dog hearts were suspended in a blood-filled tank. Serial cross-sectional images were taken at 3-mm intervals along the vertical axis. Left ventricular cavity and muscle areas of each image were planimetered with a light-pen system and summated for volume: total volume = sigma (areas x 3 mm). Direct left ventricular volume was measured through the cardiac cycle with a volumetric chamber connected to a balloon in the ejecting left ventricle. In six hearts, 67 separate direct volume measurements (range 9.5--54.7 ml) from various points in the cardiac cycle were compared with the simultaneous echo volume measurements. By least squares linear regression, echo volume = 1.01 (direct volume) - 0.44 ml; r = 0.972, SEE = 2.93 ml. Provided accurate cross-sectional localization is available, these studies suggest that extremely accurate steady-state left ventricular volume can be determined noninvasively in the ejecting heart from multiple cross-sectional images.", "contents": "Accurate volume determination in the isolated ejecting canine left ventricle by two-dimensional echocardiography. Two-dimensional echocardiography can provide serial cross-sectional images of the left ventricular cavity. We examined whether such serial images from steady-state ejecting hearts would allow three-dimensional reconstruction and accurate volume estimation without major geometric assumptions. Cross-circulated, paced dog hearts were suspended in a blood-filled tank. Serial cross-sectional images were taken at 3-mm intervals along the vertical axis. Left ventricular cavity and muscle areas of each image were planimetered with a light-pen system and summated for volume: total volume = sigma (areas x 3 mm). Direct left ventricular volume was measured through the cardiac cycle with a volumetric chamber connected to a balloon in the ejecting left ventricle. In six hearts, 67 separate direct volume measurements (range 9.5--54.7 ml) from various points in the cardiac cycle were compared with the simultaneous echo volume measurements. By least squares linear regression, echo volume = 1.01 (direct volume) - 0.44 ml; r = 0.972, SEE = 2.93 ml. Provided accurate cross-sectional localization is available, these studies suggest that extremely accurate steady-state left ventricular volume can be determined noninvasively in the ejecting heart from multiple cross-sectional images.", "PMID": 445750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7227", "title": "Morphologic development of the pulmonary vascular bed in experimental coarctation of the aorta.", "content": "Although electrocardiographic evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy is considered common in newborn infants with coarctation of the aorta, the reason for this finding is not well established. Investigations of the pulmonary vascular bed of these infants have resulted in variable findings, probably due to the differences in morphometric techniques, coexisting cardiac defects, and variable postnatal age at time of death. To study more carefully the pulmonary vascular bed, we produced coarctation of the aorta in fetal lambs at 103--126 days gestation. Twelve to 32 days later the fetuses were reoperated on and systemic and pulmonary arterial blood pressures, and arterial blood gas tensions were determined to be normal. At autopsy, juxtaductal coarctations extended a mean of 2.8 mm into the aortic lumen and occupied 9.5 mm of the aortic circumference. The fifth-generation pulmonary resistance vessels had increased medial width (p less than 0.01), decreased external diameter (p less than 0.001), and increased medial width/external diameter ratios (p less than 0.001) compared with vessels from control fetuses. The number of small muscular pulmonary vessels/cm2 lung tissue was significantly reduced (p less than 0.01) in the study animals compared with the control animals. These alterations of the pulmonary vascular bed were not due to fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension or fetal hypoxemia. These pulmonary vascular changes may explain the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy in newborn infants with coarctation of the aorta.", "contents": "Morphologic development of the pulmonary vascular bed in experimental coarctation of the aorta. Although electrocardiographic evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy is considered common in newborn infants with coarctation of the aorta, the reason for this finding is not well established. Investigations of the pulmonary vascular bed of these infants have resulted in variable findings, probably due to the differences in morphometric techniques, coexisting cardiac defects, and variable postnatal age at time of death. To study more carefully the pulmonary vascular bed, we produced coarctation of the aorta in fetal lambs at 103--126 days gestation. Twelve to 32 days later the fetuses were reoperated on and systemic and pulmonary arterial blood pressures, and arterial blood gas tensions were determined to be normal. At autopsy, juxtaductal coarctations extended a mean of 2.8 mm into the aortic lumen and occupied 9.5 mm of the aortic circumference. The fifth-generation pulmonary resistance vessels had increased medial width (p less than 0.01), decreased external diameter (p less than 0.001), and increased medial width/external diameter ratios (p less than 0.001) compared with vessels from control fetuses. The number of small muscular pulmonary vessels/cm2 lung tissue was significantly reduced (p less than 0.01) in the study animals compared with the control animals. These alterations of the pulmonary vascular bed were not due to fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension or fetal hypoxemia. These pulmonary vascular changes may explain the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy in newborn infants with coarctation of the aorta.", "PMID": 445752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7228", "title": "Noninvasive detection of pulmonary hypertension in patent ductus arteriosus by pulsed Doppler echocardiography.", "content": "Twenty-five patients with proven patent ductus arteriosus were examined by pulsed Doppler echocardiography (PDE) before invasive assessment. Ten patients had normal pulmonary artery pressures, and by PDE, pandiastolic ductal flow. Fifteen patients had elevation of mean pulmonary artery pressure, and by PDE, all had abbreviations of diastolic ductal flow. PDE correctly distinguished between patients with normal pressure and those with evidence of pulmonary hypertension; the ECG did not allow such differentiation. Detection by PDE of pulmonary hypertension complicating patent ductus arteriosus appears to be clinically useful.", "contents": "Noninvasive detection of pulmonary hypertension in patent ductus arteriosus by pulsed Doppler echocardiography. Twenty-five patients with proven patent ductus arteriosus were examined by pulsed Doppler echocardiography (PDE) before invasive assessment. Ten patients had normal pulmonary artery pressures, and by PDE, pandiastolic ductal flow. Fifteen patients had elevation of mean pulmonary artery pressure, and by PDE, all had abbreviations of diastolic ductal flow. PDE correctly distinguished between patients with normal pressure and those with evidence of pulmonary hypertension; the ECG did not allow such differentiation. Detection by PDE of pulmonary hypertension complicating patent ductus arteriosus appears to be clinically useful.", "PMID": 445753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7229", "title": "Hemodynamic, pulmonary vascular, and myocardial abnormalities secondary to pharmacologic constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. A possible mechanism for persistent pulmonary hypertension and transient tricuspid insufficiency in the newborn infant.", "content": "The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor indomethacin was given orally or intravenously to pregnant ewes. This resulted in a significant rise in the fetal pulmonary-to-systemic arterial mean blood pressure difference across the ductus arteriosus, presumably secondary to constriction of the ductus arteriosus. In five experiments the pressure difference could be promptly but temporarily reversed by the administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) into the fetal inferior vena cava. Fetal lungs from study and control animals were fixed by perfusion at measured pulmonary arterial mean blood pressure, and fifth-generation resistance vessels were studied. The medial width/external diameter ratio was significantly increased in the study vs the control lungs due to increased smooth muscle and decreased external diameter. In addition, study fetuses had acute degenerative myocardial changes in the tricuspid valve papillary muscles, the right ventricular free wall and the interventricular septum. Similar changes were not seen in control fetuses. Indomethacin administration during pregnancy causes constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus, fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension, and right ventricular damage. If severe, this may cause rapid fetal death. If less severe, in the newborn infant, this mechanism may be one cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension due to vasoconstriction and increased pulmonary arterial smooth muscle and/or tricuspid insufficiency due to papillary muscle infarction.", "contents": "Hemodynamic, pulmonary vascular, and myocardial abnormalities secondary to pharmacologic constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. A possible mechanism for persistent pulmonary hypertension and transient tricuspid insufficiency in the newborn infant. The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor indomethacin was given orally or intravenously to pregnant ewes. This resulted in a significant rise in the fetal pulmonary-to-systemic arterial mean blood pressure difference across the ductus arteriosus, presumably secondary to constriction of the ductus arteriosus. In five experiments the pressure difference could be promptly but temporarily reversed by the administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) into the fetal inferior vena cava. Fetal lungs from study and control animals were fixed by perfusion at measured pulmonary arterial mean blood pressure, and fifth-generation resistance vessels were studied. The medial width/external diameter ratio was significantly increased in the study vs the control lungs due to increased smooth muscle and decreased external diameter. In addition, study fetuses had acute degenerative myocardial changes in the tricuspid valve papillary muscles, the right ventricular free wall and the interventricular septum. Similar changes were not seen in control fetuses. Indomethacin administration during pregnancy causes constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus, fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension, and right ventricular damage. If severe, this may cause rapid fetal death. If less severe, in the newborn infant, this mechanism may be one cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension due to vasoconstriction and increased pulmonary arterial smooth muscle and/or tricuspid insufficiency due to papillary muscle infarction.", "PMID": 445754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7230", "title": "An evaluation of the left atrial/aortic root ratio in children with ventricular septal defect.", "content": "Echocardiograms were performed in 80 infants and children with isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) who underwent cardiac catheterization. The pulmonary-to-systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) was correlated with the echocardiographic left atrial-to-aortic root diameter ratio (LA/Ao), and a relatively poor correlation (r = 0.62) was found. The end-systolic diameters of the left atrium and aorta at the level of the aortic root, obtained from lateral cineangiograms of 55 of the 80 patients, were compared with the corresponding echocardiographic dimensions. To assess the possible effect of transducer beam angulation upon the echocardiographic determinations, the angiographic measurements were made at 0 degrees position (perpendicular to the frontal plane) and at angles of 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees and 20 degrees from zero, using the aortic root center as the point of intersection. The echocardiographic and angiographic aortic root measurements were comparable (r = 0.95), and the angiographically derived aortic diameter did not vary with different angle projections. However, the left atrial angiographic dimensions were significantly influenced by the angle of projection. We conclude that the echocardiographic LA/Ao ratio cannot reliably estimate the severity of the shunt flow in VSD.", "contents": "An evaluation of the left atrial/aortic root ratio in children with ventricular septal defect. Echocardiograms were performed in 80 infants and children with isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) who underwent cardiac catheterization. The pulmonary-to-systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) was correlated with the echocardiographic left atrial-to-aortic root diameter ratio (LA/Ao), and a relatively poor correlation (r = 0.62) was found. The end-systolic diameters of the left atrium and aorta at the level of the aortic root, obtained from lateral cineangiograms of 55 of the 80 patients, were compared with the corresponding echocardiographic dimensions. To assess the possible effect of transducer beam angulation upon the echocardiographic determinations, the angiographic measurements were made at 0 degrees position (perpendicular to the frontal plane) and at angles of 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees and 20 degrees from zero, using the aortic root center as the point of intersection. The echocardiographic and angiographic aortic root measurements were comparable (r = 0.95), and the angiographically derived aortic diameter did not vary with different angle projections. However, the left atrial angiographic dimensions were significantly influenced by the angle of projection. We conclude that the echocardiographic LA/Ao ratio cannot reliably estimate the severity of the shunt flow in VSD.", "PMID": 445755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7231", "title": "Routine primary repair vs two-stage repair of tetralogy of Fallot.", "content": "Fifteen of 194 patients (7.7%) with tetralogy of Fallot operated upon since January 1, 1972 under a protocol of routine primary repair despite young age died in-hospital. Most deaths were from low cardiac output. Young age and smallness of size increased the risk of operation. No deaths occurred among patients older than 4 years. High hematocrit was also a risk factor. Transannular patching has an independent effect in increasing risk. The post-repair ratio of peak pressure in the right ventricle to that in the left did not exert an independent effect. To project current risks of a two-stage approach, we determined that five of 158 patients (3.2%) died in-hospital after secondary intracardiac repair after a previous Blalock-Taussig or Waterston anastomosis between 1967--1978. Using these data and those we have published on the risk of shunting, we project that except in very small babies, the risks of hospital death of a two-stage approach are not less than those of primary repair done without a transannular patch, except when body surface area is less than about 0.35 m2. When a transannular patch is used in the primary repair, the two-stage approach is projected to be safer when the child has a body surface area of about 0.48 m2 or smaller.", "contents": "Routine primary repair vs two-stage repair of tetralogy of Fallot. Fifteen of 194 patients (7.7%) with tetralogy of Fallot operated upon since January 1, 1972 under a protocol of routine primary repair despite young age died in-hospital. Most deaths were from low cardiac output. Young age and smallness of size increased the risk of operation. No deaths occurred among patients older than 4 years. High hematocrit was also a risk factor. Transannular patching has an independent effect in increasing risk. The post-repair ratio of peak pressure in the right ventricle to that in the left did not exert an independent effect. To project current risks of a two-stage approach, we determined that five of 158 patients (3.2%) died in-hospital after secondary intracardiac repair after a previous Blalock-Taussig or Waterston anastomosis between 1967--1978. Using these data and those we have published on the risk of shunting, we project that except in very small babies, the risks of hospital death of a two-stage approach are not less than those of primary repair done without a transannular patch, except when body surface area is less than about 0.35 m2. When a transannular patch is used in the primary repair, the two-stage approach is projected to be safer when the child has a body surface area of about 0.48 m2 or smaller.", "PMID": 445756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7232", "title": "Two periods of early ventricular arrhythmia in the canine acute myocardial infarction model.", "content": "The time course of ventricular arrhythmias in the early period (0--30 minutes) after ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery was studied in 41 open-chest mongrel dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal). ECGs and seven single and composite electrograms from various regions in and around the ischemic zone were recorded throughout the experiments. Two periods of ventricular arrhythmias were clearly seen. The first occurred 2--10 minutes after coronary ligation, peaking at 5--6 minutes, and was designated as immediate ventricular arrhythmias (IVAs). There was a distinct correlation between incidence, severity, onset and termination of IVA and the degree of local delay and fragmentation of the normal sinus activation spread in the ischemic subepicardial zone. The second wave of ventricular arrhythmias occurred 12--30 minutes after ligation independently of the previous increased delay and fragmentation of activation in the ischemic subepicardium. Delayed ventricular arrhythmias (DVAs) were as severe as IVAs--there were nine instances of ventricular fibrillation during DVA and seven during IVA. While the mechanism of IVA is most probably related to reentry accompanied by delay and fragmentation of ischemic subepicardial activation, the mechanism of DVA remains unclear. Our evidence suggests that DVAs are also reentrant, with the reentry pathways located in deep myocardial structures or involving microscopic pathways at the Purkinje muscle junction.", "contents": "Two periods of early ventricular arrhythmia in the canine acute myocardial infarction model. The time course of ventricular arrhythmias in the early period (0--30 minutes) after ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery was studied in 41 open-chest mongrel dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal). ECGs and seven single and composite electrograms from various regions in and around the ischemic zone were recorded throughout the experiments. Two periods of ventricular arrhythmias were clearly seen. The first occurred 2--10 minutes after coronary ligation, peaking at 5--6 minutes, and was designated as immediate ventricular arrhythmias (IVAs). There was a distinct correlation between incidence, severity, onset and termination of IVA and the degree of local delay and fragmentation of the normal sinus activation spread in the ischemic subepicardial zone. The second wave of ventricular arrhythmias occurred 12--30 minutes after ligation independently of the previous increased delay and fragmentation of activation in the ischemic subepicardium. Delayed ventricular arrhythmias (DVAs) were as severe as IVAs--there were nine instances of ventricular fibrillation during DVA and seven during IVA. While the mechanism of IVA is most probably related to reentry accompanied by delay and fragmentation of ischemic subepicardial activation, the mechanism of DVA remains unclear. Our evidence suggests that DVAs are also reentrant, with the reentry pathways located in deep myocardial structures or involving microscopic pathways at the Purkinje muscle junction.", "PMID": 445757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7233", "title": "Noninvasive recording of His-Purkinje activity in patients with complete atrioventricular block. Clinical application of an \"automated discrimination circuit\".", "content": "In seven patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) block, His bundle electrograms (HBEs), standard ECG recordings, bipolar esophageal ECGs and highly amplified, filtered, bipolar chest lead ECGs were simultaneously recorded. The filtered chest lead ECG was averaged to determine His-Purkinje activity (HPA). A simplified device, the \"automated discrimination circuit,\" was used to selectively eliminate the superimposed atrial and ventricular potentials that are characteristic of complete AV block and unsuitable for signal averaging. The processed chest lead ECG was amenable to conventional techniques of signal averaging. In four patients with block proximal to the AV node diagnosed by HBE, there was no activity after the P wave in the surface-averaged ECGs. HPA was consistently recorded before the QRS in the surface-averaged ECG. The measurements of the HV and HPA-V intervals were very close, with a difference of less than 2 msec. Three patients with block distal to the His bundle by HBE showed a loss of electrical potential before the QRS in the surface-averaged ECG, but had a consistent HPA after the P waves. The P-HPA intervals coincided well with PH intervals, with a maximal difference of 5 msec.", "contents": "Noninvasive recording of His-Purkinje activity in patients with complete atrioventricular block. Clinical application of an \"automated discrimination circuit\". In seven patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) block, His bundle electrograms (HBEs), standard ECG recordings, bipolar esophageal ECGs and highly amplified, filtered, bipolar chest lead ECGs were simultaneously recorded. The filtered chest lead ECG was averaged to determine His-Purkinje activity (HPA). A simplified device, the \"automated discrimination circuit,\" was used to selectively eliminate the superimposed atrial and ventricular potentials that are characteristic of complete AV block and unsuitable for signal averaging. The processed chest lead ECG was amenable to conventional techniques of signal averaging. In four patients with block proximal to the AV node diagnosed by HBE, there was no activity after the P wave in the surface-averaged ECGs. HPA was consistently recorded before the QRS in the surface-averaged ECG. The measurements of the HV and HPA-V intervals were very close, with a difference of less than 2 msec. Three patients with block distal to the His bundle by HBE showed a loss of electrical potential before the QRS in the surface-averaged ECG, but had a consistent HPA after the P waves. The P-HPA intervals coincided well with PH intervals, with a maximal difference of 5 msec.", "PMID": 445759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7234", "title": "Reentry within the atrioventricular node: surgical cure with preservation of atrioventricular conduction.", "content": "Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is commonly caused by reentry within the atrioventricular (AV) node. This arrhythmia was abolished by operative dissection of the AV junction in a patient with disabling tachycardia that was not controlled by drugs. The operation was intended to create complete AV block, but AV conduction persisted after surgery. An electrophysiologic study 1 year after the operation revealed that the operation changed AV conduction in both the antegrade and retrograde directions, which may explain the absence of tachycardia. The patient has been free of arrhythmias for 18 months.", "contents": "Reentry within the atrioventricular node: surgical cure with preservation of atrioventricular conduction. Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is commonly caused by reentry within the atrioventricular (AV) node. This arrhythmia was abolished by operative dissection of the AV junction in a patient with disabling tachycardia that was not controlled by drugs. The operation was intended to create complete AV block, but AV conduction persisted after surgery. An electrophysiologic study 1 year after the operation revealed that the operation changed AV conduction in both the antegrade and retrograde directions, which may explain the absence of tachycardia. The patient has been free of arrhythmias for 18 months.", "PMID": 445760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7235", "title": "Early closure of the tricuspid valve in a case of Ebstein's anomaly with type B Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome.", "content": "Echocardiographic studies of a 19-year-old female with Ebstein's anomaly and type B Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome showed an earlier closure of the anterior tricuspid leaflet (ATL) than of the anterior mitral leaflet (AML), contrary to the previous reports. The interval between the closure of the ATL and the AML was 20 msec and 30 msec, respectively, before and after administration of edrophonium chloride. However, closure of the AML preceded that of the ATL after administration of atropine sulfate and during supraventricular tachycardia by 10 msec and 60 msec, respectively, concomitant with the shortening of the duration of the QRS complex. We conclude that early closure of the ATL may depend on preexcitation of the right ventricle.", "contents": "Early closure of the tricuspid valve in a case of Ebstein's anomaly with type B Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. Echocardiographic studies of a 19-year-old female with Ebstein's anomaly and type B Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome showed an earlier closure of the anterior tricuspid leaflet (ATL) than of the anterior mitral leaflet (AML), contrary to the previous reports. The interval between the closure of the ATL and the AML was 20 msec and 30 msec, respectively, before and after administration of edrophonium chloride. However, closure of the AML preceded that of the ATL after administration of atropine sulfate and during supraventricular tachycardia by 10 msec and 60 msec, respectively, concomitant with the shortening of the duration of the QRS complex. We conclude that early closure of the ATL may depend on preexcitation of the right ventricle.", "PMID": 445761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7236", "title": "Multivessel coronary artery spasm.", "content": "A 60-year-old patient with variant angina was shown to have myocardial ischemia in two different regions supplied by separate major coronary arteries. Neither artery had significant coronary atherosclerotic obstruction. Ventricular fibrillation was noted during ST-segment elevation in anteroseptal leads. The attacks of pain and arrhythmias disappeared during nifedipine therapy.", "contents": "Multivessel coronary artery spasm. A 60-year-old patient with variant angina was shown to have myocardial ischemia in two different regions supplied by separate major coronary arteries. Neither artery had significant coronary atherosclerotic obstruction. Ventricular fibrillation was noted during ST-segment elevation in anteroseptal leads. The attacks of pain and arrhythmias disappeared during nifedipine therapy.", "PMID": 445762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7237", "title": "Effects of nitroprusside and dopamine on pulmonary arterial vasculature in children after cardiac surgery.", "content": "The hemodynamic effects of nitroprusside and dopamine were studied in 28 children early after intracardiac repair. Children were placed in six groups, five according to their anatomic lesion and one made up of those who had postoperative pulmonary artery hypertension, to evaluate the possible differences in response of the pulmonary arterial vasculature to the drugs. Seven children had repair of an atrial septal defect; six, repair of tetralogy of Fallot; four, repair of ventricular septal defect; five, surgery for pulmonary stenosis; one, closure of a left ventricular to right atrial tunnel; and five, postoperative pulmonary artery hypertension. Dopamine was infused at 8 microgram/kg/min, and nitroprusside at 3 microgram/kg/min. With dopamine, the heart rate increased an average of 10% and the cardiac index 11%; both increases were statistically significant. Changes in systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, however, were not. With nitroprusside, the heart rate increased an average of 9% and the cardiac index 5%, while there was a significant decrease in both systemic (-20%) and pulmonary (-27%) vascular resistance. With the combination of dopamine and nitroprusside, both the cardiac index (+13%) and heart rate (+20%) increased significantly while systemic vascular resistance fell an average of 23% from control, and the pulmonary vascular resistance decreased 21%. Drug response among all five anatomic subgroups tended to be similar. We conclude that an afterload-reducing agent, such as nitroprusside and an inotropic drug such as dopamine, may have potential clinical advantages when used together in children providing heart rate does not become excessive.", "contents": "Effects of nitroprusside and dopamine on pulmonary arterial vasculature in children after cardiac surgery. The hemodynamic effects of nitroprusside and dopamine were studied in 28 children early after intracardiac repair. Children were placed in six groups, five according to their anatomic lesion and one made up of those who had postoperative pulmonary artery hypertension, to evaluate the possible differences in response of the pulmonary arterial vasculature to the drugs. Seven children had repair of an atrial septal defect; six, repair of tetralogy of Fallot; four, repair of ventricular septal defect; five, surgery for pulmonary stenosis; one, closure of a left ventricular to right atrial tunnel; and five, postoperative pulmonary artery hypertension. Dopamine was infused at 8 microgram/kg/min, and nitroprusside at 3 microgram/kg/min. With dopamine, the heart rate increased an average of 10% and the cardiac index 11%; both increases were statistically significant. Changes in systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, however, were not. With nitroprusside, the heart rate increased an average of 9% and the cardiac index 5%, while there was a significant decrease in both systemic (-20%) and pulmonary (-27%) vascular resistance. With the combination of dopamine and nitroprusside, both the cardiac index (+13%) and heart rate (+20%) increased significantly while systemic vascular resistance fell an average of 23% from control, and the pulmonary vascular resistance decreased 21%. Drug response among all five anatomic subgroups tended to be similar. We conclude that an afterload-reducing agent, such as nitroprusside and an inotropic drug such as dopamine, may have potential clinical advantages when used together in children providing heart rate does not become excessive.", "PMID": 445765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7238", "title": "Modified Shumacker repair of transposition of the great arteries.", "content": "Seven infants weighing from 6.4 to 10.3 kg underwent correction of transposition of the great arteries by the venous transposition operation as described by Shumacker. In this operation, a new atrial septum is constructed using a bipedicled right atrial flap, and the lateral atrial wall is constructed using a viable pericardial flap. Three of the patients had an associated ventricular septal defect. Six of the seven patients survived and have had an excellent clinical result. Although atrial arrhythmias were common in the early postoperative period, all patients are now in sinus rhythm. Two patients have had postoperative cardiac catheterization and cineangiography, which showed excellent hemodynamic results. The modified Shumacker operation preserves two of the three internodal pathways, provides a compliant, viable atrial septum, and permits fabrication of a generous-size physiological left atrium. This appears to offer advantages not present in the Mustard procedure.", "contents": "Modified Shumacker repair of transposition of the great arteries. Seven infants weighing from 6.4 to 10.3 kg underwent correction of transposition of the great arteries by the venous transposition operation as described by Shumacker. In this operation, a new atrial septum is constructed using a bipedicled right atrial flap, and the lateral atrial wall is constructed using a viable pericardial flap. Three of the patients had an associated ventricular septal defect. Six of the seven patients survived and have had an excellent clinical result. Although atrial arrhythmias were common in the early postoperative period, all patients are now in sinus rhythm. Two patients have had postoperative cardiac catheterization and cineangiography, which showed excellent hemodynamic results. The modified Shumacker operation preserves two of the three internodal pathways, provides a compliant, viable atrial septum, and permits fabrication of a generous-size physiological left atrium. This appears to offer advantages not present in the Mustard procedure.", "PMID": 445766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7239", "title": "Subclavian arterioplasty for the ipsilateral subclavian-to-pulmonary artery shunt.", "content": "A new technique is described to avoid kinking and improve flow in the ipsilateral subclavian-to-pulmonary artery shunt. Experience with this procedure is reviewed in 35 infants and children with a variety of cyanotic congenital heart disease, including 10 with tricuspid atresia. Of these, 17 had had previous shunts: a Waterston shunt in six, a Glenn shunt in six, and a contralateral Blalock-Taussig shunt in five. The mean age was 5.6 years (range, 1 day to 16 years), and the mean follow-up was 24 months (range, 11 months to 4.5 years). There were no early deaths (less than 30 days), but there were two late deaths. There were three shunt failures at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 10 months; two of the failures were in infants aged 1 day and 4 days at operation. There were no late shunt failures. The patency by the life table method was 91.4% at 6 months, 88.5% at 1 year, with no further drop-off. It is concluded that subclavian arterioplasty can be performed safely and offers improved shunt patency in comparing to the ipsilateral Blalock-Taussig shunt.", "contents": "Subclavian arterioplasty for the ipsilateral subclavian-to-pulmonary artery shunt. A new technique is described to avoid kinking and improve flow in the ipsilateral subclavian-to-pulmonary artery shunt. Experience with this procedure is reviewed in 35 infants and children with a variety of cyanotic congenital heart disease, including 10 with tricuspid atresia. Of these, 17 had had previous shunts: a Waterston shunt in six, a Glenn shunt in six, and a contralateral Blalock-Taussig shunt in five. The mean age was 5.6 years (range, 1 day to 16 years), and the mean follow-up was 24 months (range, 11 months to 4.5 years). There were no early deaths (less than 30 days), but there were two late deaths. There were three shunt failures at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 10 months; two of the failures were in infants aged 1 day and 4 days at operation. There were no late shunt failures. The patency by the life table method was 91.4% at 6 months, 88.5% at 1 year, with no further drop-off. It is concluded that subclavian arterioplasty can be performed safely and offers improved shunt patency in comparing to the ipsilateral Blalock-Taussig shunt.", "PMID": 445767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7240", "title": "Femoral artery pressure measurement during aortography.", "content": "Femoral artery pressure (FAP) measurements were carried out to evaluate the hemodynamic significance of aorto-iliac occlusive disease in 150 patients (173 limbs) at the time of transfemoral angiography. Clinical assessment based upon traditional criteria of claudication level, pulse examination, and monoplane angiography were at variance with the results of this physiologic testing in approximately one-third of the patients. Results were most variable, and FAP testing most helful in evaluating patients with moderate diffuse disease on angiography, who are usually difficult to evaluate clinically. Strong correlation existed between FAP evaluation and the results of arterial reconstructive surgery. Of the patients with a positive FAP result who underwent proximal vascular reconstruction, 96% had satisfactory relief of ischemic symptoms despite uncorrected distal disease in the majority. In contrast, 57% of the patients undergoing proximal operation despite a normal FAP result were unrelieved of symptoms and required subsequent distal procedures. Similar correlation existed with results of femoro-popliteal and femoro-femoral grafting. This simple physiologic test has been found of great value in selecting the proper level of arterial reconstruction and in accurately predicting the results of surgery.", "contents": "Femoral artery pressure measurement during aortography. Femoral artery pressure (FAP) measurements were carried out to evaluate the hemodynamic significance of aorto-iliac occlusive disease in 150 patients (173 limbs) at the time of transfemoral angiography. Clinical assessment based upon traditional criteria of claudication level, pulse examination, and monoplane angiography were at variance with the results of this physiologic testing in approximately one-third of the patients. Results were most variable, and FAP testing most helful in evaluating patients with moderate diffuse disease on angiography, who are usually difficult to evaluate clinically. Strong correlation existed between FAP evaluation and the results of arterial reconstructive surgery. Of the patients with a positive FAP result who underwent proximal vascular reconstruction, 96% had satisfactory relief of ischemic symptoms despite uncorrected distal disease in the majority. In contrast, 57% of the patients undergoing proximal operation despite a normal FAP result were unrelieved of symptoms and required subsequent distal procedures. Similar correlation existed with results of femoro-popliteal and femoro-femoral grafting. This simple physiologic test has been found of great value in selecting the proper level of arterial reconstruction and in accurately predicting the results of surgery.", "PMID": 445768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7241", "title": "The elderly patient with severe arterial insufficiency of the lower extremity: limb salvage by femoro-popliteal reconstruction.", "content": "To determine the feasibility of limb salvage in elderly patients in whom severe ischemia of the lower extremity is present, the results of femoro-popliteal reconstruction done primarily for limb salvage were reviewed. Of 310 femoro-popliteal bypasses, 72 were performed on patients 70 years of age or older. In the over-70 group, ischemic necrosis was present in 70.8% rest pain in 22.2%, and claudication in 7.0%. Initial limb salvage patients 70 years of age or older was 71.4%. Cumulative limb salvage at 5 years was 51.1% and at 10 years was 44.8%. Operative mortality, including mortality of subsequent amputation, when required, was 8.3%. Appreciable limb salvage can be achieved by femoro-popliteal arterial reconstruction in lieu of primary amputation in elderly patients in whom severe arterial insufficiency of the lower extremity is present.", "contents": "The elderly patient with severe arterial insufficiency of the lower extremity: limb salvage by femoro-popliteal reconstruction. To determine the feasibility of limb salvage in elderly patients in whom severe ischemia of the lower extremity is present, the results of femoro-popliteal reconstruction done primarily for limb salvage were reviewed. Of 310 femoro-popliteal bypasses, 72 were performed on patients 70 years of age or older. In the over-70 group, ischemic necrosis was present in 70.8% rest pain in 22.2%, and claudication in 7.0%. Initial limb salvage patients 70 years of age or older was 71.4%. Cumulative limb salvage at 5 years was 51.1% and at 10 years was 44.8%. Operative mortality, including mortality of subsequent amputation, when required, was 8.3%. Appreciable limb salvage can be achieved by femoro-popliteal arterial reconstruction in lieu of primary amputation in elderly patients in whom severe arterial insufficiency of the lower extremity is present.", "PMID": 445769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7242", "title": "Asymptomatic coronary artery disease managed by myocardial revascularization: results at 5 years.", "content": "A consecutive series of 17 patients surgically treated for asymptomatic coronary artery disease was surveyed for survival, clinical status, and graft patency after a mean follow-up of 75 months. Documented myocardial infarction (MI), 14 transmural and 3 subendocardial, was the major indication for catheterization. All patients were asymptomatic for at least 4 months prior to surgery. Six patients had greater than 70% obstruction in one vessel, seven in two vessels, and four in three vessels. The indication for revascularization was critical stenoses in vessels supplying large areas of viable myocardium. All patients received left internal mammary artery (LIMA) grafts to the left anterior descending coronary artery; seven patients also received saphenous vein grafts (SVG) to other vessels. There was no operative or late mortality. In 12 patients, postoperative angiography (mean interval, 12 1/2 months) showed 11/12 LIMA and all SVG patent. One incompletely revascularized patient with an occluded LIMA is symptomatic. All others are fully active without symptoms or interval MI after a minimum follow-up of 5 1/2 years. The safety and long-term results of myocardial revascularization warrant its consideration for selected asymptomatic postinfarction patients.", "contents": "Asymptomatic coronary artery disease managed by myocardial revascularization: results at 5 years. A consecutive series of 17 patients surgically treated for asymptomatic coronary artery disease was surveyed for survival, clinical status, and graft patency after a mean follow-up of 75 months. Documented myocardial infarction (MI), 14 transmural and 3 subendocardial, was the major indication for catheterization. All patients were asymptomatic for at least 4 months prior to surgery. Six patients had greater than 70% obstruction in one vessel, seven in two vessels, and four in three vessels. The indication for revascularization was critical stenoses in vessels supplying large areas of viable myocardium. All patients received left internal mammary artery (LIMA) grafts to the left anterior descending coronary artery; seven patients also received saphenous vein grafts (SVG) to other vessels. There was no operative or late mortality. In 12 patients, postoperative angiography (mean interval, 12 1/2 months) showed 11/12 LIMA and all SVG patent. One incompletely revascularized patient with an occluded LIMA is symptomatic. All others are fully active without symptoms or interval MI after a minimum follow-up of 5 1/2 years. The safety and long-term results of myocardial revascularization warrant its consideration for selected asymptomatic postinfarction patients.", "PMID": 445770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7243", "title": "Comparison of myocardial protection with nifedipine and potassium.", "content": "Nifedipine, a slow-channel calcium blocker, is thought to provide useful myocardial protection during prolonged total ischemia and reperfusion. An isolated, isovolumic, feline heart model was used to asses the effectiveness of nifedipine in both cardioplegic (100 microgram/10 ml) and noncardioplegic (10 microgram/10 ml) doses for providing myocardial preservation during 90 minutes of hypothermic ischemic arrest and 45 minutes of normothermic reperfusion. Use of nifedipine was compared to hypothermia (27 degrees C) alone and to hypothermia with potassium cardioplegia. Ventricular function was assessed by recovery of isovolumic left ventricular developed pressure and dP/dt. Myocardial carbon dioxide tension (PCO2) and myocardial oxygen tension (PO2) were measured by mass spectrometry. Potassium cardioplegia and the higher dose of nifedipine resulted in immediate asystole. The rates of rise of PCO were greatest in the group receiving 10 microgram nifedipine and in the control group. The rates of rise in the two cardioplegic groups were significantly lower. Recovery of ventricular function was significantly lower with low-dose nifedipine than with potassium cardioplegia. Higher dose nifedipine resulted in a return of function, which was no different than with potassium cardioplegia. Morphologic protection was better with higher dose nifedipine and potassium cardioplegia than with either low-dose cardioplegia or hypothermia alone. These results demonstrate that nifedipine in a cardioplegic dose results in preservation of myocardial structure and function that is similar to that obtained with potassium cardioplegia. In lower noncardioplegic dose, nifedipine does not appear to offer additional protection compared to hypothermia alone. Whether persistent depression of ventricular contractility will limit nifedipine's clinical usefulness as a myocardial protection agent will require further study.", "contents": "Comparison of myocardial protection with nifedipine and potassium. Nifedipine, a slow-channel calcium blocker, is thought to provide useful myocardial protection during prolonged total ischemia and reperfusion. An isolated, isovolumic, feline heart model was used to asses the effectiveness of nifedipine in both cardioplegic (100 microgram/10 ml) and noncardioplegic (10 microgram/10 ml) doses for providing myocardial preservation during 90 minutes of hypothermic ischemic arrest and 45 minutes of normothermic reperfusion. Use of nifedipine was compared to hypothermia (27 degrees C) alone and to hypothermia with potassium cardioplegia. Ventricular function was assessed by recovery of isovolumic left ventricular developed pressure and dP/dt. Myocardial carbon dioxide tension (PCO2) and myocardial oxygen tension (PO2) were measured by mass spectrometry. Potassium cardioplegia and the higher dose of nifedipine resulted in immediate asystole. The rates of rise of PCO were greatest in the group receiving 10 microgram nifedipine and in the control group. The rates of rise in the two cardioplegic groups were significantly lower. Recovery of ventricular function was significantly lower with low-dose nifedipine than with potassium cardioplegia. Higher dose nifedipine resulted in a return of function, which was no different than with potassium cardioplegia. Morphologic protection was better with higher dose nifedipine and potassium cardioplegia than with either low-dose cardioplegia or hypothermia alone. These results demonstrate that nifedipine in a cardioplegic dose results in preservation of myocardial structure and function that is similar to that obtained with potassium cardioplegia. In lower noncardioplegic dose, nifedipine does not appear to offer additional protection compared to hypothermia alone. Whether persistent depression of ventricular contractility will limit nifedipine's clinical usefulness as a myocardial protection agent will require further study.", "PMID": 445771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7244", "title": "Unstable angina pectoris: an examination of modes and costs of therapy.", "content": "Debate exists over the most appropriate form of treatment for patients with unstable angina pectoris. This study examined 106 patients randomized at the University of Alabama in Birmingham as part of the National Cooperative Study Group and focuses on the phenomenon of patients who fail medical therapy and thus require late surgery, and the costs of therapy. Discriminant function analysis revealed that the significant predictors (p less than 0.01) of patients who would later require surgery were: total number of vessels diseased, angina severly, presence of congestive heart failure, hypertension, and number of years that the patient had had angina. By means of this analysis, 85% of the late surgery patients were correctly predicted. Late surgery patients averaged 2.4 diseased vessels vs 1.5 for persistent medical patients (p less than 0.01). Mean charges for the first 2 years in the study were $6,226 (SD $2,967) for persistent medical patients, $10,416 (SD $2,146) for surgery patients, and $20,059 (SD $10,748) for late surgery patients (p less than 0.001). These data indicate that surgery is clearly an expensive procedure; but that it is more expensive for late surgery patients, who have total costs that are twice as high as surgical costs and 3.5 times as high as persistent medical costs.", "contents": "Unstable angina pectoris: an examination of modes and costs of therapy. Debate exists over the most appropriate form of treatment for patients with unstable angina pectoris. This study examined 106 patients randomized at the University of Alabama in Birmingham as part of the National Cooperative Study Group and focuses on the phenomenon of patients who fail medical therapy and thus require late surgery, and the costs of therapy. Discriminant function analysis revealed that the significant predictors (p less than 0.01) of patients who would later require surgery were: total number of vessels diseased, angina severly, presence of congestive heart failure, hypertension, and number of years that the patient had had angina. By means of this analysis, 85% of the late surgery patients were correctly predicted. Late surgery patients averaged 2.4 diseased vessels vs 1.5 for persistent medical patients (p less than 0.01). Mean charges for the first 2 years in the study were $6,226 (SD $2,967) for persistent medical patients, $10,416 (SD $2,146) for surgery patients, and $20,059 (SD $10,748) for late surgery patients (p less than 0.001). These data indicate that surgery is clearly an expensive procedure; but that it is more expensive for late surgery patients, who have total costs that are twice as high as surgical costs and 3.5 times as high as persistent medical costs.", "PMID": 445772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7245", "title": "A new cardiac prosthesis: the St. Jude Medical cardiac valve: in vivo results.", "content": "The St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis is a low profile, lightweight, bi-leaflet, central-flow device constructed entirely of pyrolytic carbon. In vivo testing was performed in 24 cows in which the tricuspid valve (n = 14) or mitral valve (n = 10) was replaced by a St. Jude Medical prosthesis with a 26 mm tissue annulus diameter. Eight animals died in the operative period. The 16 surviving animals were sacrificed at 4, 8, 12, or 18 weeks. There were no valve-related deaths nor mechanical valve failures. Anticoagulation was not used in the postoperative period during which time monthly laboratory parameters were obtained including hemoglobin, hematocrit, white cell count, red cell count and indices, lactic acid dehydrogenase, serum haptoglobin, and, additionally at sacrifice, platelet and red cell morphology. Values indicated this prosthesis did not cause hemolysis. At sacrifice the pulmonary arterial tree and peripheral organs showed no evidence of thromboemboli. There was smooth endocardial ingrowth on all valve sewing rings. One valve had thrombus formation on the valve sewing ring. Nine animals were anesthetized prior to sacrifice and underwent open cardiac catheterization. Ventriculography (n = 6) showed minimal transvalvar reflux, and atriograms (n = 6) demonstrated central flow. Transvalvar gradients were 0 to 22 mm Hg (n = 9). One valve of an 18-week tricuspid implant was examined for wear; valve life was calculated to be greater than 2500 years. These data in conjunction with in vitro test results justify clinical trial of the St. Jude Medical prosthesis.", "contents": "A new cardiac prosthesis: the St. Jude Medical cardiac valve: in vivo results. The St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis is a low profile, lightweight, bi-leaflet, central-flow device constructed entirely of pyrolytic carbon. In vivo testing was performed in 24 cows in which the tricuspid valve (n = 14) or mitral valve (n = 10) was replaced by a St. Jude Medical prosthesis with a 26 mm tissue annulus diameter. Eight animals died in the operative period. The 16 surviving animals were sacrificed at 4, 8, 12, or 18 weeks. There were no valve-related deaths nor mechanical valve failures. Anticoagulation was not used in the postoperative period during which time monthly laboratory parameters were obtained including hemoglobin, hematocrit, white cell count, red cell count and indices, lactic acid dehydrogenase, serum haptoglobin, and, additionally at sacrifice, platelet and red cell morphology. Values indicated this prosthesis did not cause hemolysis. At sacrifice the pulmonary arterial tree and peripheral organs showed no evidence of thromboemboli. There was smooth endocardial ingrowth on all valve sewing rings. One valve had thrombus formation on the valve sewing ring. Nine animals were anesthetized prior to sacrifice and underwent open cardiac catheterization. Ventriculography (n = 6) showed minimal transvalvar reflux, and atriograms (n = 6) demonstrated central flow. Transvalvar gradients were 0 to 22 mm Hg (n = 9). One valve of an 18-week tricuspid implant was examined for wear; valve life was calculated to be greater than 2500 years. These data in conjunction with in vitro test results justify clinical trial of the St. Jude Medical prosthesis.", "PMID": 445774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7246", "title": "Primary clinical experience with the Hall-Kaster valve in the aortic position: results at 3 months including hemodynamic studies.", "content": "The Hall-Kaster pivotal disc prosthetic heart valve was introduced in 1977. The primary goal of the design was to obtain the least possible obstruction to flow. Toward this end, innovations in the tilting axis, disc guidance mechanisms, and disc translational freedom combine to improve flow through both orifice segments of the open valve. The present study reports the primary clinical and hemodynamic findings in 28 patients (mean age, 53.8 years) with aortic valve disease, examined 3 months after insertion of the Hall-Kaster pivotal disc valve. The hemodynamics findings displayed low gradients and high calculated orifice areas. Satisfactory flow was observed through both the major and minor openings of the prosthesis. There were no arterial thromboembolic episodes. The increase in serum lactate dehydrogenase activity was moderate, indicating a slight-to-moderate intravascular haemolysis.", "contents": "Primary clinical experience with the Hall-Kaster valve in the aortic position: results at 3 months including hemodynamic studies. The Hall-Kaster pivotal disc prosthetic heart valve was introduced in 1977. The primary goal of the design was to obtain the least possible obstruction to flow. Toward this end, innovations in the tilting axis, disc guidance mechanisms, and disc translational freedom combine to improve flow through both orifice segments of the open valve. The present study reports the primary clinical and hemodynamic findings in 28 patients (mean age, 53.8 years) with aortic valve disease, examined 3 months after insertion of the Hall-Kaster pivotal disc valve. The hemodynamics findings displayed low gradients and high calculated orifice areas. Satisfactory flow was observed through both the major and minor openings of the prosthesis. There were no arterial thromboembolic episodes. The increase in serum lactate dehydrogenase activity was moderate, indicating a slight-to-moderate intravascular haemolysis.", "PMID": 445775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7247", "title": "In vitro hydrodynamic comparison of mitral valve bioprostheses.", "content": "With the use of the pulse duplicator built in our laboratory, the hydrodynamic characteristics of three sizes of the four commercially available mitral bioprostheses, Hancock, Carpentier-Edwards, Angell-Shiley, and Ionescu-Shiley, were studied and compared. A wide range of performance was found: for example, during pulsatile testing, at peak flow of 15 1/min (corresonding to a normal resting cardiac output) transvalvular gradients varied from as high as 20 mm Hg (Angell-Shiley) to 5 mm Hg(Ionescu-Shiley) in the 25 mm mounting diameter size. Effective orifice areas (EOA) are significantly different in valves of the same mounting size, e.g., at peak flows of 20 1/min, the Ionescu-Shiley 25 provides an EOA of 1.7 cm2 while the Angell-Shiley provides only 1.17 cm2. The EOAs of all bioprostheses have been found to increase with increasing flow (e.g., from 10--30 1/min peak flow, the Hancock 25 changed from 1.25 cm2 to 1.50 cm2). The Gorlin formula, as constituted for calculating the area of stenotic mitral valves, is inappropriate for prosthetic valves. But the discharge coefficients of the bioprostheses have been found to be around 1 when the planimetered area of the open valve orifice is determined at a given flow. By using this discharge coefficient, the Gorlin formula will give an excellent estimate of the true orifice area of mitral bioprostheses.", "contents": "In vitro hydrodynamic comparison of mitral valve bioprostheses. With the use of the pulse duplicator built in our laboratory, the hydrodynamic characteristics of three sizes of the four commercially available mitral bioprostheses, Hancock, Carpentier-Edwards, Angell-Shiley, and Ionescu-Shiley, were studied and compared. A wide range of performance was found: for example, during pulsatile testing, at peak flow of 15 1/min (corresonding to a normal resting cardiac output) transvalvular gradients varied from as high as 20 mm Hg (Angell-Shiley) to 5 mm Hg(Ionescu-Shiley) in the 25 mm mounting diameter size. Effective orifice areas (EOA) are significantly different in valves of the same mounting size, e.g., at peak flows of 20 1/min, the Ionescu-Shiley 25 provides an EOA of 1.7 cm2 while the Angell-Shiley provides only 1.17 cm2. The EOAs of all bioprostheses have been found to increase with increasing flow (e.g., from 10--30 1/min peak flow, the Hancock 25 changed from 1.25 cm2 to 1.50 cm2). The Gorlin formula, as constituted for calculating the area of stenotic mitral valves, is inappropriate for prosthetic valves. But the discharge coefficients of the bioprostheses have been found to be around 1 when the planimetered area of the open valve orifice is determined at a given flow. By using this discharge coefficient, the Gorlin formula will give an excellent estimate of the true orifice area of mitral bioprostheses.", "PMID": 445776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7248", "title": "Preoperative evaluation of subvalular fibrosis in mitral stenosis. A predictor factor in conservative vs replacement surgical therapy.", "content": "To assess the degree of mitral subvalvular fibrosis (SVF) in patients with mitral stenosis, left ventriculograms were reviewed, and a mitral subvalvular distance ratio (DR) was determined by dividing the distance from the papillary muscle tips to the closed mitral leaflets in systole by the distance from the aortic valve to the left ventricular apex in diastole. In 15 patients with normal ventricles, the mean DR was 0.244 +/- 0.017. In nine patients with minimal SVF, the mean DR was 0.181 +/- 0.025. In 10 patients with moderate SVF, the mean DR was 0.148 +/- 0.033. In 5 patients with severe SVF, the mean DR was 0.087 +/- 0.009. All mean DRs were mutually distinguishable at p less than 0.01. The clinical results and preoperative DR of 28 patients who had mitral commissurotomy were reviewed. A DR of less than 0.140 precluded a good longterm result from mitral commissurotomy alone. The DR reliably predicts the degree of SVF preoperatively and identifies patients with mitral stenosis who require valve replacement or a direct surgical attack on the subvalvular mechanism.", "contents": "Preoperative evaluation of subvalular fibrosis in mitral stenosis. A predictor factor in conservative vs replacement surgical therapy. To assess the degree of mitral subvalvular fibrosis (SVF) in patients with mitral stenosis, left ventriculograms were reviewed, and a mitral subvalvular distance ratio (DR) was determined by dividing the distance from the papillary muscle tips to the closed mitral leaflets in systole by the distance from the aortic valve to the left ventricular apex in diastole. In 15 patients with normal ventricles, the mean DR was 0.244 +/- 0.017. In nine patients with minimal SVF, the mean DR was 0.181 +/- 0.025. In 10 patients with moderate SVF, the mean DR was 0.148 +/- 0.033. In 5 patients with severe SVF, the mean DR was 0.087 +/- 0.009. All mean DRs were mutually distinguishable at p less than 0.01. The clinical results and preoperative DR of 28 patients who had mitral commissurotomy were reviewed. A DR of less than 0.140 precluded a good longterm result from mitral commissurotomy alone. The DR reliably predicts the degree of SVF preoperatively and identifies patients with mitral stenosis who require valve replacement or a direct surgical attack on the subvalvular mechanism.", "PMID": 445777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7249", "title": "Surgery in active infective endocarditis.", "content": "Controversy persists concerning the role of early surgical intervention in severe infective endocarditis (IE). We therefore reviewed 163 episodes of well-documented IE in which 32 cardiac operations were performed during the active phase of IE. Congestive heart failure (CHF) was the principal indication for surgery in 88% (28/32); systemic emboli, 1/32; and persisting sepsis, 3/32. Staphylococcus and enterococcus were the most common infecting organisms in the operative group (44% and 16% respectively). Surgical mortality (11/32,37%) did not differ (p greater than 0.05) from medical mortality (26/131,20%). All 11 operative deaths occurred in patients moribund prior to surgery, including three with preoperative cardiac arrest. Surgical patients undergoing preoperative cardiac catheterization demonstrated marked CHF: a mean left ventricular end-diastolic pressure of 25.3 mm Hg. The mean cardiac index in 8/11 surgical deaths was lower (p less than 0.05) vs surgical survivors: 2.21/min/m2 vs. 3.21/min/m2. Postoperative complications were rare in the 21 surgical survivors. There were no episodes of continued infection, prosthetic dehiscence, or advanced heart block; only one paravalvular leak; and one systemic embolus. These findings emphasize the high medical and surgical mortality in patients with IE, suggest that delayed operative intervention may be a major causative factor resulting in a high surgical mortality, and justify an aggressive surgical approach in patients with valve dysfunction and heart failure. These data indicate that survivors of surgical intervention during active IE have eradication of infection and few postoperative complications.", "contents": "Surgery in active infective endocarditis. Controversy persists concerning the role of early surgical intervention in severe infective endocarditis (IE). We therefore reviewed 163 episodes of well-documented IE in which 32 cardiac operations were performed during the active phase of IE. Congestive heart failure (CHF) was the principal indication for surgery in 88% (28/32); systemic emboli, 1/32; and persisting sepsis, 3/32. Staphylococcus and enterococcus were the most common infecting organisms in the operative group (44% and 16% respectively). Surgical mortality (11/32,37%) did not differ (p greater than 0.05) from medical mortality (26/131,20%). All 11 operative deaths occurred in patients moribund prior to surgery, including three with preoperative cardiac arrest. Surgical patients undergoing preoperative cardiac catheterization demonstrated marked CHF: a mean left ventricular end-diastolic pressure of 25.3 mm Hg. The mean cardiac index in 8/11 surgical deaths was lower (p less than 0.05) vs surgical survivors: 2.21/min/m2 vs. 3.21/min/m2. Postoperative complications were rare in the 21 surgical survivors. There were no episodes of continued infection, prosthetic dehiscence, or advanced heart block; only one paravalvular leak; and one systemic embolus. These findings emphasize the high medical and surgical mortality in patients with IE, suggest that delayed operative intervention may be a major causative factor resulting in a high surgical mortality, and justify an aggressive surgical approach in patients with valve dysfunction and heart failure. These data indicate that survivors of surgical intervention during active IE have eradication of infection and few postoperative complications.", "PMID": 445778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7250", "title": "Late hemodynamic evaluation of Hancock Modified orifice aortic bioprosthesis.", "content": "Nineteen patients with Hancock Modified Orifice prosthesis (HMO-250), size 19 to 23 mm, were recatheterized 6 to 16 months following aortic valve replacement (AVR). Although hemodynamic characteristics varied widely, HMO-250 compared favorably to the standard model 243 (less than 0.05). Mean peak resting gradient across HMO-250 was 14.8 torr at rest and rose to 26.8 torr with exercise. Systolic gradients for HMO-250, both resting and exercise, were improved for 21 mm (p less than 0.01), but not for 23 mm. Increasing the patient's body surface area (BSA) correlated with increasing gradients for 23 mm (p less than 0.05), but was unrelated to 21 mm. Effective orifice areas were similarly found to be improved with 21 mm HMO-250 but unchanged for 23 mm. Use of the 21 or 23 mm size HMO for AVR is supported only when the patient's body surface area is less than 1.8 m2. If the body surface area is greater than 1.8 m2, annulus enlargement and a larger size bioprosthesis should be employed. Use of 19 mm porcine xenograft for AVR is not supported.", "contents": "Late hemodynamic evaluation of Hancock Modified orifice aortic bioprosthesis. Nineteen patients with Hancock Modified Orifice prosthesis (HMO-250), size 19 to 23 mm, were recatheterized 6 to 16 months following aortic valve replacement (AVR). Although hemodynamic characteristics varied widely, HMO-250 compared favorably to the standard model 243 (less than 0.05). Mean peak resting gradient across HMO-250 was 14.8 torr at rest and rose to 26.8 torr with exercise. Systolic gradients for HMO-250, both resting and exercise, were improved for 21 mm (p less than 0.01), but not for 23 mm. Increasing the patient's body surface area (BSA) correlated with increasing gradients for 23 mm (p less than 0.05), but was unrelated to 21 mm. Effective orifice areas were similarly found to be improved with 21 mm HMO-250 but unchanged for 23 mm. Use of the 21 or 23 mm size HMO for AVR is supported only when the patient's body surface area is less than 1.8 m2. If the body surface area is greater than 1.8 m2, annulus enlargement and a larger size bioprosthesis should be employed. Use of 19 mm porcine xenograft for AVR is not supported.", "PMID": 445779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7251", "title": "An important complication of Hancock mitral valve replacement in children.", "content": "Nine children ages 2--15 years have undergone mitral valve replacement (MVR) with Hancock porcine heterograft valves for severe mitral insufficiency. The etiology of the mitral valve disease was rheumatic in two patients, and congenital in seven. Porcine valve sizes ranged from 19--31 mm. Follow-up has been from 1.6 to 6.1 years (mean, 4.3 years). All nine children have had marked postoperative improvement, no thromboembolic complications despite no long-term anticoagulations, and no episodes of endocarditis. There have been no early or late deaths. Although six of the nine patients remain asymptomatic, three others developed severe fibrocalcific obstruction of the heterograft, requiring valve re-replacement at 3.5, 3.6, and 4.8 years following the initial valve replacement. This complication has not been previously reported in children. It is a factor that must be considered when deciding on MVR for children and their postoperative management.", "contents": "An important complication of Hancock mitral valve replacement in children. Nine children ages 2--15 years have undergone mitral valve replacement (MVR) with Hancock porcine heterograft valves for severe mitral insufficiency. The etiology of the mitral valve disease was rheumatic in two patients, and congenital in seven. Porcine valve sizes ranged from 19--31 mm. Follow-up has been from 1.6 to 6.1 years (mean, 4.3 years). All nine children have had marked postoperative improvement, no thromboembolic complications despite no long-term anticoagulations, and no episodes of endocarditis. There have been no early or late deaths. Although six of the nine patients remain asymptomatic, three others developed severe fibrocalcific obstruction of the heterograft, requiring valve re-replacement at 3.5, 3.6, and 4.8 years following the initial valve replacement. This complication has not been previously reported in children. It is a factor that must be considered when deciding on MVR for children and their postoperative management.", "PMID": 445780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7252", "title": "Quantification of serum IgE in patients with burns.", "content": "IgE levels in the serum of individuals with burns were sequentially measured and compared to IgE levels in normal control blood donors. Following a burn, the levels of IgE protein showed a significant, although modest, increase, usually evident of IgE protein showed a significant, although modest, increase, usually evident between days 14 and 22. In an occasional patient, the IgE levels rose by as much as five times in value during this period. Because of the complexity of the clinical situation associated with the burn patients, we cannot ascribe these elevations of IgE to the burn per se, but must consider the possibility of other factors, especially those involved in the treatment of the burn as well as the infection. The magnitude of the elevation of IgE in the burn patients (geometric mean=272 ng/ml) was considerably lower than the magnitude of the elevations seen in atopic dermatitis and generalized neurodermatitis (geometric means=2265 and 2071 ng/ml, respectively). Thus simple trauma to the skin is not a sufficient explanation for the elevated serum IgE levels in atopic dermatitis and generalized neurodermatitis.", "contents": "Quantification of serum IgE in patients with burns. IgE levels in the serum of individuals with burns were sequentially measured and compared to IgE levels in normal control blood donors. Following a burn, the levels of IgE protein showed a significant, although modest, increase, usually evident of IgE protein showed a significant, although modest, increase, usually evident between days 14 and 22. In an occasional patient, the IgE levels rose by as much as five times in value during this period. Because of the complexity of the clinical situation associated with the burn patients, we cannot ascribe these elevations of IgE to the burn per se, but must consider the possibility of other factors, especially those involved in the treatment of the burn as well as the infection. The magnitude of the elevation of IgE in the burn patients (geometric mean=272 ng/ml) was considerably lower than the magnitude of the elevations seen in atopic dermatitis and generalized neurodermatitis (geometric means=2265 and 2071 ng/ml, respectively). Thus simple trauma to the skin is not a sufficient explanation for the elevated serum IgE levels in atopic dermatitis and generalized neurodermatitis.", "PMID": 445781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7253", "title": "Acute asthma compared with exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: changes in complement.", "content": "Complement levels were measured on admission and at 1 and 7 days following admission in twenty patients with acute severe asthma and ten patients with an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis. Although no evidence of hypocomplementaemia was found in any patient, there was a mean fall within the normal range of the individual complement components, C4, C3 and factor B in both groups. The mean fall occurred earlier in the bronchitics than in the asthmatics and this may be related to infection or the administration of corticosteroids. There was a significant fall in C3 (P greater than 0.05) in the bronchitics compared with the asthmatics at 24 hr. From our study, however, we could find no evidence of excessive utilization of complement in acute asthma.", "contents": "Acute asthma compared with exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: changes in complement. Complement levels were measured on admission and at 1 and 7 days following admission in twenty patients with acute severe asthma and ten patients with an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis. Although no evidence of hypocomplementaemia was found in any patient, there was a mean fall within the normal range of the individual complement components, C4, C3 and factor B in both groups. The mean fall occurred earlier in the bronchitics than in the asthmatics and this may be related to infection or the administration of corticosteroids. There was a significant fall in C3 (P greater than 0.05) in the bronchitics compared with the asthmatics at 24 hr. From our study, however, we could find no evidence of excessive utilization of complement in acute asthma.", "PMID": 445782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7254", "title": "The nature of asthma in Brisbane.", "content": "Clinical details and skin prick test reactions are described for 183 asthmatic patients who attended an asthma clinic at the Royal Brisbane Hospital in 1976. These features were compared with similar studies reported from London, Sydney, Tristan da Cunha and New Guinea. Asthma in Brisbane was shown to be similar in many ways to asthma in those centres; however, a higher frequency of positive immediate skin test reactions to antigens of A. fumigatus, a larger percentage of skin test-negative patients developing symptoms before the age of 10 years, and a lack of association between the age of onset of symptoms and number of positive skin tests was noted. A difference in mean weal diameter (in mm) on skin testing with house dust mite antigens was not found between patients giving a history of sensitivity to these antigens and those that did not. A seasonal increase in symptoms was only described by 27% of patients.", "contents": "The nature of asthma in Brisbane. Clinical details and skin prick test reactions are described for 183 asthmatic patients who attended an asthma clinic at the Royal Brisbane Hospital in 1976. These features were compared with similar studies reported from London, Sydney, Tristan da Cunha and New Guinea. Asthma in Brisbane was shown to be similar in many ways to asthma in those centres; however, a higher frequency of positive immediate skin test reactions to antigens of A. fumigatus, a larger percentage of skin test-negative patients developing symptoms before the age of 10 years, and a lack of association between the age of onset of symptoms and number of positive skin tests was noted. A difference in mean weal diameter (in mm) on skin testing with house dust mite antigens was not found between patients giving a history of sensitivity to these antigens and those that did not. A seasonal increase in symptoms was only described by 27% of patients.", "PMID": 445783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7255", "title": "Atopic disease and month of birth.", "content": "Analysis of the month of birth of 1715 children with asthma shows clear evidence of a higher proportion of the group having been born between May and October (54.8%) than would be expected by comparison with the population of England and Wales (50.2%). Inspection of the distribution of month of patients with hay fever and for patients with positive skin reactions to mixed grass pollen does not account for this seasonal variation but children with positive skin reactions to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus show a high proportion (56.2%) born in the period May to October. Although the reasons for the variation of pattern of month of birth in asthmatic children are uncertain, further study of sensitization in early life might clarify them.", "contents": "Atopic disease and month of birth. Analysis of the month of birth of 1715 children with asthma shows clear evidence of a higher proportion of the group having been born between May and October (54.8%) than would be expected by comparison with the population of England and Wales (50.2%). Inspection of the distribution of month of patients with hay fever and for patients with positive skin reactions to mixed grass pollen does not account for this seasonal variation but children with positive skin reactions to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus show a high proportion (56.2%) born in the period May to October. Although the reasons for the variation of pattern of month of birth in asthmatic children are uncertain, further study of sensitization in early life might clarify them.", "PMID": 445784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7256", "title": "Immunological parameters in perennial rhinitis.", "content": "As part of a study of the effectiveness of beclomethasone dipropionate in perennial rhinitis five immunologically related parameters were measured. These included skin tests, total IgE, specific IgE, nasal and peripheral blood eosinophil counts. In addition, nasal biopsies were obtained in twenty out of sixty patients. It was apparent that patients with perennial rhinitis formed a heterogeneous group who could be divided into three groups based on the extent of immunological abnormality detected. Group 1 consisted of twenty patients who displayed no abnormality in any of the five parameters studied. Group 2 consisted of twenty-six patients in whom specific IgE was not detected but who had varying degrees of abnormal findings in the other laboratory parameters. The remaining fourteen patients formed a third group in whom specific IgE was detected in addition to abnormalities in other parameters. In general, patients with detectable specific IgE had a higher frequency of abnormal parameters, including abnormal histology of their nasal biopsy, than patients in whom no specific IgE was detected. The heterogeneous nature of perennial rhinitis is discussed. Despite the heterogeneous nature of the total patient group, the majority of patients (80%) treated with beclomethasone dipropionate improved compared to 20% improved in the placebo group. There was no difference in the drug effect between the three groups of patients.", "contents": "Immunological parameters in perennial rhinitis. As part of a study of the effectiveness of beclomethasone dipropionate in perennial rhinitis five immunologically related parameters were measured. These included skin tests, total IgE, specific IgE, nasal and peripheral blood eosinophil counts. In addition, nasal biopsies were obtained in twenty out of sixty patients. It was apparent that patients with perennial rhinitis formed a heterogeneous group who could be divided into three groups based on the extent of immunological abnormality detected. Group 1 consisted of twenty patients who displayed no abnormality in any of the five parameters studied. Group 2 consisted of twenty-six patients in whom specific IgE was not detected but who had varying degrees of abnormal findings in the other laboratory parameters. The remaining fourteen patients formed a third group in whom specific IgE was detected in addition to abnormalities in other parameters. In general, patients with detectable specific IgE had a higher frequency of abnormal parameters, including abnormal histology of their nasal biopsy, than patients in whom no specific IgE was detected. The heterogeneous nature of perennial rhinitis is discussed. Despite the heterogeneous nature of the total patient group, the majority of patients (80%) treated with beclomethasone dipropionate improved compared to 20% improved in the placebo group. There was no difference in the drug effect between the three groups of patients.", "PMID": 445785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7257", "title": "Occupational asthma due to inhaled carmine.", "content": "Two patients are described with occupational asthma due to carmine, a natural dye extracted from the insect Coccus cactus. Both had dual asthmatic reactons after carmine inhalation. Oral challenge provoked gastrointestinal symptoms in one patient, and asthma in them both, perhaps accounting for their continuing symptoms. One patient worked extracting carmine from the insects and the other used carmine as a cosmetic colouring agent.", "contents": "Occupational asthma due to inhaled carmine. Two patients are described with occupational asthma due to carmine, a natural dye extracted from the insect Coccus cactus. Both had dual asthmatic reactons after carmine inhalation. Oral challenge provoked gastrointestinal symptoms in one patient, and asthma in them both, perhaps accounting for their continuing symptoms. One patient worked extracting carmine from the insects and the other used carmine as a cosmetic colouring agent.", "PMID": 445787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7258", "title": "An evaluation of the Olympus \"Quickrate\" analyser.", "content": "The Olympus \"Quickrate\", a photometer built for both kinetic and end point analysis was evaluated in this laboratory. Aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase were measured in the kinetic mode and glucose, urea, total protein, albumin, bilirubin, calcium and iron in the end point mode. Overall, good correlation was observed with routine methodologies and the precision of the methods was acceptable. An electrical evaluation was also performed. In our hands, the instrument proved to be simple to use and gave no trouble. It should prove useful for paediatric and emergency work, and as a back up for other analysers.", "contents": "An evaluation of the Olympus \"Quickrate\" analyser. The Olympus \"Quickrate\", a photometer built for both kinetic and end point analysis was evaluated in this laboratory. Aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase were measured in the kinetic mode and glucose, urea, total protein, albumin, bilirubin, calcium and iron in the end point mode. Overall, good correlation was observed with routine methodologies and the precision of the methods was acceptable. An electrical evaluation was also performed. In our hands, the instrument proved to be simple to use and gave no trouble. It should prove useful for paediatric and emergency work, and as a back up for other analysers.", "PMID": 445789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7259", "title": "Resolution of age-dependent reference intervals: polynomial regression methodology with applicability to plasma zinc levels in a childhood population.", "content": "We present a systematic parametric method for resolving age-related reference intervals based on differential-polynomial regression analysis. Application of this method to plasma zinc concentrations in a childhood population results in a third degree polynomial expression from which two statistically independent age-reference intervals are derived. The method appears to be useful in describing age-dependent concentration trends particularly for pediatric and geriatric populations.", "contents": "Resolution of age-dependent reference intervals: polynomial regression methodology with applicability to plasma zinc levels in a childhood population. We present a systematic parametric method for resolving age-related reference intervals based on differential-polynomial regression analysis. Application of this method to plasma zinc concentrations in a childhood population results in a third degree polynomial expression from which two statistically independent age-reference intervals are derived. The method appears to be useful in describing age-dependent concentration trends particularly for pediatric and geriatric populations.", "PMID": 445790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7260", "title": "Assessment of the Beckman oxygen rate analyzer for the enzymatic assay of cholesterol.", "content": "We describe an evaluation of the Beckman oxygen rate analyzer for the determination of cholesterol. The precision and accuracy obtained did not fulfill the short-term criteria of the Center for Disease Control but the precision met the criteria of the College of American Pathologist for analysis of cholesterol in screening programs. Good overall correlation between the oxygen rate method and a continuous-flow method with prior extraction was found for patient samples. The results obtained by the oxygen rate method had net positive bias up to the limit of linearity of 8.6 mmol cholesterol/liter. The instrument is not recommended for laboratory or epidemiological studies but may prove useful in screening programs.", "contents": "Assessment of the Beckman oxygen rate analyzer for the enzymatic assay of cholesterol. We describe an evaluation of the Beckman oxygen rate analyzer for the determination of cholesterol. The precision and accuracy obtained did not fulfill the short-term criteria of the Center for Disease Control but the precision met the criteria of the College of American Pathologist for analysis of cholesterol in screening programs. Good overall correlation between the oxygen rate method and a continuous-flow method with prior extraction was found for patient samples. The results obtained by the oxygen rate method had net positive bias up to the limit of linearity of 8.6 mmol cholesterol/liter. The instrument is not recommended for laboratory or epidemiological studies but may prove useful in screening programs.", "PMID": 445791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7261", "title": "Rapid thin-layer chromatographic method for the detection of urinary methylmalonic acid.", "content": "1. Simple and rapid thin-layer and micro-thin-layer chromatography techniques are described for the detection of methylmalonic acid in urine. 2. The separation of methylmalonic acid from a crude urine sample is performed by thin-layer chromatography with a mixture of silica gel-cellulose and butanol - acetic acid - water solvent system. The methylmalonic acid spot is visualized with tetrazotized o-dianisidine. 3. This system has been successfully developed for a urinary screening programme; it was shown as simple, convenient and rapid, eliminating false-positives and allowing the detection of even traces of methylmalonic acid.", "contents": "Rapid thin-layer chromatographic method for the detection of urinary methylmalonic acid. 1. Simple and rapid thin-layer and micro-thin-layer chromatography techniques are described for the detection of methylmalonic acid in urine. 2. The separation of methylmalonic acid from a crude urine sample is performed by thin-layer chromatography with a mixture of silica gel-cellulose and butanol - acetic acid - water solvent system. The methylmalonic acid spot is visualized with tetrazotized o-dianisidine. 3. This system has been successfully developed for a urinary screening programme; it was shown as simple, convenient and rapid, eliminating false-positives and allowing the detection of even traces of methylmalonic acid.", "PMID": 445792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7262", "title": "Assessment of the Beckman creatinine analyzer 2.", "content": "An evaluation of the Beckman Creatinine Analyzer 2 has been carried out. Good day-to-day and within-day precision was obtained. Analyses of quality control materials, studies of linearity, and comparison of the results obtained for samples from patients with the results obtained by a continuous-flow method evidenced good accuracy. Aceto-acetate in serum caused significant positive interference. The desirable performance characteristics and practicability make this Analyzer attractive to the clinical chemist, particularly for paediatric and emergency laboratory use.", "contents": "Assessment of the Beckman creatinine analyzer 2. An evaluation of the Beckman Creatinine Analyzer 2 has been carried out. Good day-to-day and within-day precision was obtained. Analyses of quality control materials, studies of linearity, and comparison of the results obtained for samples from patients with the results obtained by a continuous-flow method evidenced good accuracy. Aceto-acetate in serum caused significant positive interference. The desirable performance characteristics and practicability make this Analyzer attractive to the clinical chemist, particularly for paediatric and emergency laboratory use.", "PMID": 445793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7263", "title": "Single column high pressure liquid chromatographic determination of drugs in blood.", "content": "1. Analysis of anticonvulsants (phenobarbital, diphenylhydantoin and carbamazepine), theophylline and an antiarrhythmic agent (disopyramide) in blood using a simple high pressure liquid chromatography apparatus equipped with a reversed -- phase column is described. A simple extraction of plasma or serum with organic solvent is used to isolate the anticonvulsants and theophylline. Disopyramide is extracted with ether and is further purified by a back extraction into acid. 2. Hexanesulfonic acid -- methanol solutions are used for chromatography of the anticonvulsants and disopyramide while the mobile phase for theophylline is a NH4H2PO4 -- methanol mixture. Chromatographic analysis time for the drugs is approximately 15 minutes. The drugs are monitored by a UV detector at 254 nm except for theophylline which is measured at 280 nm. Quantitation is accomplished by comparison of peak heights with those of internal standards. Quantities of serum or plasma routinely used for analysis are: 200 ul for the anticonvulsants, 100 ul for theophylline and 0.5 ml for disopyramide. Detection limits are less than 1 ug/ml for these quantities.", "contents": "Single column high pressure liquid chromatographic determination of drugs in blood. 1. Analysis of anticonvulsants (phenobarbital, diphenylhydantoin and carbamazepine), theophylline and an antiarrhythmic agent (disopyramide) in blood using a simple high pressure liquid chromatography apparatus equipped with a reversed -- phase column is described. A simple extraction of plasma or serum with organic solvent is used to isolate the anticonvulsants and theophylline. Disopyramide is extracted with ether and is further purified by a back extraction into acid. 2. Hexanesulfonic acid -- methanol solutions are used for chromatography of the anticonvulsants and disopyramide while the mobile phase for theophylline is a NH4H2PO4 -- methanol mixture. Chromatographic analysis time for the drugs is approximately 15 minutes. The drugs are monitored by a UV detector at 254 nm except for theophylline which is measured at 280 nm. Quantitation is accomplished by comparison of peak heights with those of internal standards. Quantities of serum or plasma routinely used for analysis are: 200 ul for the anticonvulsants, 100 ul for theophylline and 0.5 ml for disopyramide. Detection limits are less than 1 ug/ml for these quantities.", "PMID": 445794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7264", "title": "Amphetamine metabolism in mice exposed chronically to phenobarbital and to phenobarbital with carbon tetrachloride.", "content": "The metabolism of amphetamine was studied in three groups of mice, including normal mice (N), mice given chronic doses of phenobarbital via their drinking water (PB), and mice exposed to carbon tetrachloride vapors daily during the course of chronic phenobarbital consumption (PB/CCl4). Renal and hepatic tissue from animals of each group were examined by electron microscopy. Mice in the PB/CCl4 group demonstrated the classical symptoms of carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic cirrhosis, and structural damage to the kidney. The PB group presented a normal renal pathology, but ultrastructural changes including swollen mitochondria and dilation of the endoplasmic reticulum were evident in the hepatocytes. The N, PB and PB/CCl4 mice excreted 84.5, 61.5 and 72.3 percent respectively of a dose of 14C-amphetamine sulfate in the 0-72 hour urine. Seven major urinary metabolites were detected in the normal group, 4 in PB group, and 3 in the PB/CCl4 group. Unchanged amphetamine, rho-hydroxyamphetamine and benzoic acid were tentatively identified by combined techniques of gas chromatography and thin-layer chromatography with autoradiography.", "contents": "Amphetamine metabolism in mice exposed chronically to phenobarbital and to phenobarbital with carbon tetrachloride. The metabolism of amphetamine was studied in three groups of mice, including normal mice (N), mice given chronic doses of phenobarbital via their drinking water (PB), and mice exposed to carbon tetrachloride vapors daily during the course of chronic phenobarbital consumption (PB/CCl4). Renal and hepatic tissue from animals of each group were examined by electron microscopy. Mice in the PB/CCl4 group demonstrated the classical symptoms of carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic cirrhosis, and structural damage to the kidney. The PB group presented a normal renal pathology, but ultrastructural changes including swollen mitochondria and dilation of the endoplasmic reticulum were evident in the hepatocytes. The N, PB and PB/CCl4 mice excreted 84.5, 61.5 and 72.3 percent respectively of a dose of 14C-amphetamine sulfate in the 0-72 hour urine. Seven major urinary metabolites were detected in the normal group, 4 in PB group, and 3 in the PB/CCl4 group. Unchanged amphetamine, rho-hydroxyamphetamine and benzoic acid were tentatively identified by combined techniques of gas chromatography and thin-layer chromatography with autoradiography.", "PMID": 445795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7265", "title": "Evaluation of a new commercial radioassay kit for aldosterone using an iodinated tracer.", "content": "We have evaluated a new non-chromatographic commercial radioimmunoassay kit for serum, plasma, and urine aldosterone levels which employs 125 iodine as the tracer. Within-run and run-to-run precision data show coefficients of variation of 3 to 6% and 8 to 16%, respectively. Recovery of aldosterone added to serum and urine at several levels range from 92 to 109%. Antibody specificity was tested with six structurally related steroids at grossly elevated concentrations and no crossreactivity was observed. Serum or plasma can be used interchangeably in the assay, and normal levels correspond to generally accepted values.", "contents": "Evaluation of a new commercial radioassay kit for aldosterone using an iodinated tracer. We have evaluated a new non-chromatographic commercial radioimmunoassay kit for serum, plasma, and urine aldosterone levels which employs 125 iodine as the tracer. Within-run and run-to-run precision data show coefficients of variation of 3 to 6% and 8 to 16%, respectively. Recovery of aldosterone added to serum and urine at several levels range from 92 to 109%. Antibody specificity was tested with six structurally related steroids at grossly elevated concentrations and no crossreactivity was observed. Serum or plasma can be used interchangeably in the assay, and normal levels correspond to generally accepted values.", "PMID": 445796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7266", "title": "Hyperprolinemia type II: evidence of the excretion of 3-hydroxy delta 1-pyrroline 5-carboxylic acid.", "content": "We report the identification of delta 1-pyrroline 3-hydroxy 5-carboxylic acid (hydroxy PCA) in a previously reported patient with hyperprolinemia Type II. This compound had been called pseudo PCA in a previous report.", "contents": "Hyperprolinemia type II: evidence of the excretion of 3-hydroxy delta 1-pyrroline 5-carboxylic acid. We report the identification of delta 1-pyrroline 3-hydroxy 5-carboxylic acid (hydroxy PCA) in a previously reported patient with hyperprolinemia Type II. This compound had been called pseudo PCA in a previous report.", "PMID": 445797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7267", "title": "An ultraviolet spectrophotometric procedure for the routine determination of naproxen.", "content": "1. A procedure for the routine assay of Naproxen in serum by ultraviolet spectrophotometry is presented. The absorption coefficient (A1 1% cm) of Naproxen in methanol at 261 nm was found to be 216. 2. The Naproxen procedure appears to be relatively free from interferences of commonly coadministered medications. Salicylate interference is eliminated by a modified procedure. 3. Concentrations of Naproxen in a limited number (40) of clinical samples ranged from non-detected to 12.5 mg/dl. The therapeutic concentration appears to be 4 to 6 mg/dl (174-260 mumol/L).", "contents": "An ultraviolet spectrophotometric procedure for the routine determination of naproxen. 1. A procedure for the routine assay of Naproxen in serum by ultraviolet spectrophotometry is presented. The absorption coefficient (A1 1% cm) of Naproxen in methanol at 261 nm was found to be 216. 2. The Naproxen procedure appears to be relatively free from interferences of commonly coadministered medications. Salicylate interference is eliminated by a modified procedure. 3. Concentrations of Naproxen in a limited number (40) of clinical samples ranged from non-detected to 12.5 mg/dl. The therapeutic concentration appears to be 4 to 6 mg/dl (174-260 mumol/L).", "PMID": 445798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7268", "title": "Simultaneous measurements of acetaminophen and salicylate in plasma by liquid chromatography.", "content": "We describe a \"highly-performance\" liquid chromatographic method in which 8-chlorotheophylline is used as an internal standard to determine acetaminophen and salicylate simultaneously in plasma samples. Therapeutic as well as toxic concentrations can be determined on samples as small as 50 micro L, which makes the method particularly useful for determinations on samples from young children. The procedure requires a simple extraction of the drugs, and the chromatography is completed in 6 min.", "contents": "Simultaneous measurements of acetaminophen and salicylate in plasma by liquid chromatography. We describe a \"highly-performance\" liquid chromatographic method in which 8-chlorotheophylline is used as an internal standard to determine acetaminophen and salicylate simultaneously in plasma samples. Therapeutic as well as toxic concentrations can be determined on samples as small as 50 micro L, which makes the method particularly useful for determinations on samples from young children. The procedure requires a simple extraction of the drugs, and the chromatography is completed in 6 min.", "PMID": 445799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7269", "title": "Evaluation of the Beckman creatinine analyzer.", "content": "We compared results obtained with the Beckman Creatinine Analyzer (Beckman Instruments, Inc.) to those with the GEMSAEC Centrifugal Analyzer (Electro-Nucleonics, Inc.) and with a manual method for determination of creatinine in serum and urine. Linearity, stability, recovery, and precision were evaluated. Interference from bilirubin, protein, lipemia, uric acid, and hemolysis is negligible, but acetone and acetoacetate can interfere.", "contents": "Evaluation of the Beckman creatinine analyzer. We compared results obtained with the Beckman Creatinine Analyzer (Beckman Instruments, Inc.) to those with the GEMSAEC Centrifugal Analyzer (Electro-Nucleonics, Inc.) and with a manual method for determination of creatinine in serum and urine. Linearity, stability, recovery, and precision were evaluated. Interference from bilirubin, protein, lipemia, uric acid, and hemolysis is negligible, but acetone and acetoacetate can interfere.", "PMID": 445800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7270", "title": "Calibration and monitoring of spectrometers and spectrophotometers.", "content": "We have delineated some of the factors affecting the performance of spectrometers and spectrophotometers in the clinical laboratory and have presented some of the methods for verifying that these instruments are functioning properly. At a minimum, every laboratory should perform periodic inspections of spectrometric functions to check wavelength calibration, linearity of detector response, and stray radiation. Only through such an inspection program can a laboratory ensure that these instruments are not contributing to inaccurate analytical results.", "contents": "Calibration and monitoring of spectrometers and spectrophotometers. We have delineated some of the factors affecting the performance of spectrometers and spectrophotometers in the clinical laboratory and have presented some of the methods for verifying that these instruments are functioning properly. At a minimum, every laboratory should perform periodic inspections of spectrometric functions to check wavelength calibration, linearity of detector response, and stray radiation. Only through such an inspection program can a laboratory ensure that these instruments are not contributing to inaccurate analytical results.", "PMID": 445802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7271", "title": "The use of linear models and matrix least squares in clinical chemistry.", "content": "We present a unified approach to the use of linear models and matrix least squares with the intention of providing a better understanding of the techniques themselves and of the statistics that arise from these techniques as they are used in clinical chemistry. Emphasis is placed on the importance of appropriate experimental designs and adequately precise measurement processes for efficiently obtaining the desired information.", "contents": "The use of linear models and matrix least squares in clinical chemistry. We present a unified approach to the use of linear models and matrix least squares with the intention of providing a better understanding of the techniques themselves and of the statistics that arise from these techniques as they are used in clinical chemistry. Emphasis is placed on the importance of appropriate experimental designs and adequately precise measurement processes for efficiently obtaining the desired information.", "PMID": 445820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7272", "title": "Power functions for statistical control rules.", "content": "We have studied power functions for several control rules by use of a computer simulation program. These power functions show the relationship between the probability for rejection and the size of the analytical errors that are to be detected. They allow some assessment of the quality available from present statistical control systems and provide some guidance in the selection of control rules and numbers of control observations when new control systems are designed.", "contents": "Power functions for statistical control rules. We have studied power functions for several control rules by use of a computer simulation program. These power functions show the relationship between the probability for rejection and the size of the analytical errors that are to be detected. They allow some assessment of the quality available from present statistical control systems and provide some guidance in the selection of control rules and numbers of control observations when new control systems are designed.", "PMID": 445821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7273", "title": "An evaluation of the detection capacity of a computer-assisted real-time delta check system.", "content": "We developed of computer programs to evaluate the clinical reliability of test results by comparing each new result with previous results for the same patient, and to signal discrepancies in real time. These \"delta check\" discrepancies are noted, and they must be reviewed by the laboratory staff before results can appear on a patient's record. During a month, I reviewed 1403 such delta check messages and detected 55 (3.9%) that could not be explained on the basis of the patient's clinical condition. Of these, 23 represented true laboratory errors, which were corrected. The recognition of discrepancies before they appear on patients' reports has facilitated the operation of the clinical chemistry laboratory. Mislabeled and otherwise mishandled specimens are discovered before erroneous results appear on a patient's record.", "contents": "An evaluation of the detection capacity of a computer-assisted real-time delta check system. We developed of computer programs to evaluate the clinical reliability of test results by comparing each new result with previous results for the same patient, and to signal discrepancies in real time. These \"delta check\" discrepancies are noted, and they must be reviewed by the laboratory staff before results can appear on a patient's record. During a month, I reviewed 1403 such delta check messages and detected 55 (3.9%) that could not be explained on the basis of the patient's clinical condition. Of these, 23 represented true laboratory errors, which were corrected. The recognition of discrepancies before they appear on patients' reports has facilitated the operation of the clinical chemistry laboratory. Mislabeled and otherwise mishandled specimens are discovered before erroneous results appear on a patient's record.", "PMID": 445822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7274", "title": "Preparation and stability of a liquid creatine kinase isoenzyme control from rabbit serum.", "content": "The MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CK) may be prepared in vitro from rabbit serum containing only the MM and BB isoenzymes, by means of a hybridization technique. The MM and BB dimers dissociate in 4 mol/L urea, which allows random recombination of M and B monomers. A liquid CK-isoenzyme control can be made from mixtures of rabbit sera obtained after hybridization and stabilized with glycerol and 25 mmol of 2-mercaptoethanol per liter. A liquid control stored at 4 degrees C showed good stability over a three-month period, declining to a mean residual activity of CK of approximately 90% after three weeks and a mean residual activity of MM, MB, and BB of 80--85% after six weeks. At 25 degrees C, CK activity of the liquid control declined to 75--80% after the fourth week. CK-BB at 25 degrees C was the least stable isoenzyme, declining to 75% after the third week and reaching 60% of activity after 12 weeks. CK-MB and CK-MM showed approximately 10--15% less stability at 25 degrees C than at 4 degrees C.", "contents": "Preparation and stability of a liquid creatine kinase isoenzyme control from rabbit serum. The MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CK) may be prepared in vitro from rabbit serum containing only the MM and BB isoenzymes, by means of a hybridization technique. The MM and BB dimers dissociate in 4 mol/L urea, which allows random recombination of M and B monomers. A liquid CK-isoenzyme control can be made from mixtures of rabbit sera obtained after hybridization and stabilized with glycerol and 25 mmol of 2-mercaptoethanol per liter. A liquid control stored at 4 degrees C showed good stability over a three-month period, declining to a mean residual activity of CK of approximately 90% after three weeks and a mean residual activity of MM, MB, and BB of 80--85% after six weeks. At 25 degrees C, CK activity of the liquid control declined to 75--80% after the fourth week. CK-BB at 25 degrees C was the least stable isoenzyme, declining to 75% after the third week and reaching 60% of activity after 12 weeks. CK-MB and CK-MM showed approximately 10--15% less stability at 25 degrees C than at 4 degrees C.", "PMID": 445823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7275", "title": "Glycohemoglobin and glucose tolerance tests compared as indicators of borderline diabetes.", "content": "We concurrently measured glycohemoglobin and performed 3-h oral (100 g) glucose tolerance tests on 69 ambulatory patients suspected of having abnormal carbohydrate metabolism. The patients were divided into two groups: (a) The 37 patients for whom the results were normal had plasma glucose concentrations of 0.70--1.15 milligram during fasting and 0.70--1.23 g/L 2 h after glucose ingestion. (b) Borderline diabetics exceeded one or both of these limits. The range of glycohemoglobin in the normal group was 3.0--4.7% of total hemoglobin. Of the 21 borderline diabetics, 11 had increased glycohemoglobin (4.8--8.0%). The difference in tolerance test results between borderline diabetics with and without increased glycohemoglobin was insufficient to predict the status of glycohemoglobin. We suggest a tentative definition for latent diabetes: increased glycohemoglobin in the presence of normal or borderline-abnormal glucose concentration in plasma collected during fasting.", "contents": "Glycohemoglobin and glucose tolerance tests compared as indicators of borderline diabetes. We concurrently measured glycohemoglobin and performed 3-h oral (100 g) glucose tolerance tests on 69 ambulatory patients suspected of having abnormal carbohydrate metabolism. The patients were divided into two groups: (a) The 37 patients for whom the results were normal had plasma glucose concentrations of 0.70--1.15 milligram during fasting and 0.70--1.23 g/L 2 h after glucose ingestion. (b) Borderline diabetics exceeded one or both of these limits. The range of glycohemoglobin in the normal group was 3.0--4.7% of total hemoglobin. Of the 21 borderline diabetics, 11 had increased glycohemoglobin (4.8--8.0%). The difference in tolerance test results between borderline diabetics with and without increased glycohemoglobin was insufficient to predict the status of glycohemoglobin. We suggest a tentative definition for latent diabetes: increased glycohemoglobin in the presence of normal or borderline-abnormal glucose concentration in plasma collected during fasting.", "PMID": 445824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7276", "title": "A direct radioimmunoassay of serum cortisol with in-house 125I-tracer and preconjugated double antibody.", "content": "We describe a radioimmunoassay of serum cortisol in which 125I-tracer and preconjugated double antibody are used. This simpler method involves direct serum assay, and the majority of reagents are prepared in-house. Within-assay precision (coefficient of variation) of assay of Ortho Diognostic RIA Cortisol I and II was 3.2% (mean = 131 microgram/L, n = 10) and 2.2% (mean = 405 microgram/L, n = 10), respectively. Between-assay precision (coefficient of variation) for the same controls was 6.7% (mean = 128 microgram/L, n = 62) and 5.6% (mean = 395 microgram/L, n = 62), respectivley. By using automatic pipetters and a gamma counter with a data-reduction package, a technologist can complete 100 assays in less than 3 h. The operating cost is approximately 10 cents per tube.", "contents": "A direct radioimmunoassay of serum cortisol with in-house 125I-tracer and preconjugated double antibody. We describe a radioimmunoassay of serum cortisol in which 125I-tracer and preconjugated double antibody are used. This simpler method involves direct serum assay, and the majority of reagents are prepared in-house. Within-assay precision (coefficient of variation) of assay of Ortho Diognostic RIA Cortisol I and II was 3.2% (mean = 131 microgram/L, n = 10) and 2.2% (mean = 405 microgram/L, n = 10), respectively. Between-assay precision (coefficient of variation) for the same controls was 6.7% (mean = 128 microgram/L, n = 62) and 5.6% (mean = 395 microgram/L, n = 62), respectivley. By using automatic pipetters and a gamma counter with a data-reduction package, a technologist can complete 100 assays in less than 3 h. The operating cost is approximately 10 cents per tube.", "PMID": 445826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7277", "title": "Determination of serum 5'-nucleotidase with a centrifugal analyzer.", "content": "We describe a multi-point method for the determination of the serum enzyme activity 5'-nucleotidase by means of an NADH sensor reaction. Studies show that the assay may be carried out in one step, without preincubation, by using a GEMSAEC Fast Analyzer.", "contents": "Determination of serum 5'-nucleotidase with a centrifugal analyzer. We describe a multi-point method for the determination of the serum enzyme activity 5'-nucleotidase by means of an NADH sensor reaction. Studies show that the assay may be carried out in one step, without preincubation, by using a GEMSAEC Fast Analyzer.", "PMID": 445827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7278", "title": "Blood-spot thyrotropin radioimmunoassay in a screening program for congenital hypothyroidism.", "content": "We describe a highly sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay for thyrotropin in dried blood spots on filter paper cards. In a screening program for congenital hypothyroidism, blood-spot thyrotropin concentrations are measured in infants whose blood-spot thyroxine concentrations are in the lower 10%, and this strategy has reduced the recall rate from 1.7% (thyroxine assay alone) to 0.17%. Thyrotropin assay samples consist of discs 4.5-mm in diameter, containing about 6 microL of blood, punched from blood spots. By appropriate attention to assay conditions, a mean least-detectable thyrotropin concentration equivalent to 2.5 milliunits/L plasma has been achieved. Concomitant measurement of thyrotropin by plasma and blood-spot assays in 91 subjects yielded a Spearman rank correlation coefficient of 0.9732. An analysis of variance of the distribution volume of thyrotropin in blood spots and a covariance analysis of factors affecting blood-spot thyroxine results are presented.", "contents": "Blood-spot thyrotropin radioimmunoassay in a screening program for congenital hypothyroidism. We describe a highly sensitive and precise radioimmunoassay for thyrotropin in dried blood spots on filter paper cards. In a screening program for congenital hypothyroidism, blood-spot thyrotropin concentrations are measured in infants whose blood-spot thyroxine concentrations are in the lower 10%, and this strategy has reduced the recall rate from 1.7% (thyroxine assay alone) to 0.17%. Thyrotropin assay samples consist of discs 4.5-mm in diameter, containing about 6 microL of blood, punched from blood spots. By appropriate attention to assay conditions, a mean least-detectable thyrotropin concentration equivalent to 2.5 milliunits/L plasma has been achieved. Concomitant measurement of thyrotropin by plasma and blood-spot assays in 91 subjects yielded a Spearman rank correlation coefficient of 0.9732. An analysis of variance of the distribution volume of thyrotropin in blood spots and a covariance analysis of factors affecting blood-spot thyroxine results are presented.", "PMID": 445828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7279", "title": "Creatine kinase isoenzymes of mitochondrial origin in human serum.", "content": "We measured creatine kinase (EC 2.7.3.2) activity in 1009 serum samples from 538 patients in the intensive-care units of the University of Texas Medical Branch hospitals. Creatine kinase isoenzymes migrating cathodal to skeletal muscle creatine kinase (CK-MM) on cellulose acetate electrophoresis were found in sera from 14 of the 538 patients. Creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27), aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1), and alanine aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.2) activities were abnormally increased in these 14 patients. Liver lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme (LDH5) and cardiac creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) were abnormally increased in 12 and eight of these patients, respectively. Ten of the 14 patients died during their hospital admission. We believe the creatine kinase isoenzymes that migrated cathodal to skeletal muscle creatine kinase (CK-MM) were of mitochondrial origin.", "contents": "Creatine kinase isoenzymes of mitochondrial origin in human serum. We measured creatine kinase (EC 2.7.3.2) activity in 1009 serum samples from 538 patients in the intensive-care units of the University of Texas Medical Branch hospitals. Creatine kinase isoenzymes migrating cathodal to skeletal muscle creatine kinase (CK-MM) on cellulose acetate electrophoresis were found in sera from 14 of the 538 patients. Creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27), aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1), and alanine aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.2) activities were abnormally increased in these 14 patients. Liver lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme (LDH5) and cardiac creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) were abnormally increased in 12 and eight of these patients, respectively. Ten of the 14 patients died during their hospital admission. We believe the creatine kinase isoenzymes that migrated cathodal to skeletal muscle creatine kinase (CK-MM) were of mitochondrial origin.", "PMID": 445829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7280", "title": "Hyperamylasemia and ovarian carcinoma.", "content": "We present a case of advanced ovarian carcinoma associated with high concentrations of serum and urine amylase. Biochemical analysis to elucidate the nature and origin of the hyperamylasemia identified seven amylase isoenzymes, of which five appeared to be distinct from normal salivary and pancreatic amylase. We discuss the nature of amylase isoenzymes produced by malignant tumors.", "contents": "Hyperamylasemia and ovarian carcinoma. We present a case of advanced ovarian carcinoma associated with high concentrations of serum and urine amylase. Biochemical analysis to elucidate the nature and origin of the hyperamylasemia identified seven amylase isoenzymes, of which five appeared to be distinct from normal salivary and pancreatic amylase. We discuss the nature of amylase isoenzymes produced by malignant tumors.", "PMID": 445830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7281", "title": "Polychromatic analysis: new applications of an old technique.", "content": "As a means of correcting for many potential interferences, polychromatic analysis offers an effective alternative to either sample pretreatment or separate blank determinations. Because of the differing spectral characteristics of each interfering species, and the nature of these interferences (static vs. kinetic), the application of polychromatic analysis must be optimized for each analytical procedure to minimize all residual errors. Overall assay precision can be maximized by proper use of flagging procedure to minimize all residual errors. Overall assay precision can be maximized by proper use of flagging procedures (also based on polychromatic analysis). By using a second wavelength measurement, the analyst can also verify the accuracy of an analytical measurement in selected situations. These applications of polychromatic analysis are a departure from conventional analytical procedures in allowing for correction of various interferences in the actual reaction mixture, without making assumptions about the recovery of analyte during pretreatment or the equivalent absorptivity of interferent in both blank and assay solutions.", "contents": "Polychromatic analysis: new applications of an old technique. As a means of correcting for many potential interferences, polychromatic analysis offers an effective alternative to either sample pretreatment or separate blank determinations. Because of the differing spectral characteristics of each interfering species, and the nature of these interferences (static vs. kinetic), the application of polychromatic analysis must be optimized for each analytical procedure to minimize all residual errors. Overall assay precision can be maximized by proper use of flagging procedure to minimize all residual errors. Overall assay precision can be maximized by proper use of flagging procedures (also based on polychromatic analysis). By using a second wavelength measurement, the analyst can also verify the accuracy of an analytical measurement in selected situations. These applications of polychromatic analysis are a departure from conventional analytical procedures in allowing for correction of various interferences in the actual reaction mixture, without making assumptions about the recovery of analyte during pretreatment or the equivalent absorptivity of interferent in both blank and assay solutions.", "PMID": 445831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7282", "title": "Fluoroimmunoassay for human choriomammotropin.", "content": "We describe an immunoassay for human choriomammo-tropin by use of the fluorescein-labeled hormone (of human origin). The technique is generally similar to the radioimmunoassay for this material, but has the advantage of stability of tracer and avoidance of radiation hazard. However, the procedure requires approximately 50-fold more tracer than does the radioimmunoassay, and this would be a disadvantage with materials for which supplies of purified antigen are scarce. Furthermore, both within-assay variation (3.9%) and between-assay variation (7.8--7.9%) were less satisfactory than that of radioimmunoassay (1.5% and 2.2--3%, respectively). This is almost certainly the result of imprecision of end-point detection and could probably be corrected by further attention to equipment design.", "contents": "Fluoroimmunoassay for human choriomammotropin. We describe an immunoassay for human choriomammo-tropin by use of the fluorescein-labeled hormone (of human origin). The technique is generally similar to the radioimmunoassay for this material, but has the advantage of stability of tracer and avoidance of radiation hazard. However, the procedure requires approximately 50-fold more tracer than does the radioimmunoassay, and this would be a disadvantage with materials for which supplies of purified antigen are scarce. Furthermore, both within-assay variation (3.9%) and between-assay variation (7.8--7.9%) were less satisfactory than that of radioimmunoassay (1.5% and 2.2--3%, respectively). This is almost certainly the result of imprecision of end-point detection and could probably be corrected by further attention to equipment design.", "PMID": 445833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7283", "title": "Enzymic assay of total cholesterol involving chemical or enzymic hydrolysis--a comparison of methods.", "content": "Manual procedures for estimating serum total cholesterol by use of cholesterol oxidase (EC 1.1.3.6) and the phenol--aminophenazone--peroxidase chromogenic system are described, in which cholesteryl esters are hydrolyzed either by use of pancreatic cholesterol ester hydrolase (EC 3.1.1.13) or saponification by ethanolic potassium hydroxide. Both methods are linear up to a cholesterol concentration of 12 mmol/L and are reproducible (between-run CV, about 1.1%). The chemical hydrolysis method yields results that are about 10% lower than those obtained by enzymic hydrolysis, because of incomplete removal of interfering thiols generated during the saponification of serum. The chemical hydrolysis procedure is much less susceptible to interferences, particularly by bilirubin, but the enzymic hydrolysis system is simpler to perform and therefore has a greater potential for mechanization.", "contents": "Enzymic assay of total cholesterol involving chemical or enzymic hydrolysis--a comparison of methods. Manual procedures for estimating serum total cholesterol by use of cholesterol oxidase (EC 1.1.3.6) and the phenol--aminophenazone--peroxidase chromogenic system are described, in which cholesteryl esters are hydrolyzed either by use of pancreatic cholesterol ester hydrolase (EC 3.1.1.13) or saponification by ethanolic potassium hydroxide. Both methods are linear up to a cholesterol concentration of 12 mmol/L and are reproducible (between-run CV, about 1.1%). The chemical hydrolysis method yields results that are about 10% lower than those obtained by enzymic hydrolysis, because of incomplete removal of interfering thiols generated during the saponification of serum. The chemical hydrolysis procedure is much less susceptible to interferences, particularly by bilirubin, but the enzymic hydrolysis system is simpler to perform and therefore has a greater potential for mechanization.", "PMID": 445834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7284", "title": "Application of Bayes's theorem to results of quantitative clinical chemical determinations.", "content": "The diagnostic implication of a certain test result with regard to a certain condition can be expressed as a single number, L, the likelihood ratio of this result. This ratio allows Bayes's theorem to be written in a convenient form. We show that the practice of calculating predictive values for the results of quantitative tests by use of discrimination limits leads to incorrect predictive values. Including L values in laboratory reports seems a more logical approach to optimum interpretation of laboratory results than the use of discrimination values.", "contents": "Application of Bayes's theorem to results of quantitative clinical chemical determinations. The diagnostic implication of a certain test result with regard to a certain condition can be expressed as a single number, L, the likelihood ratio of this result. This ratio allows Bayes's theorem to be written in a convenient form. We show that the practice of calculating predictive values for the results of quantitative tests by use of discrimination limits leads to incorrect predictive values. Including L values in laboratory reports seems a more logical approach to optimum interpretation of laboratory results than the use of discrimination values.", "PMID": 445835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7285", "title": "Heterogeneity of chloramine T- and lactoperoxidase-radioiodinated human calcitonin.", "content": "Radioiodination reportedly damages peptides, but the nature of the damage has not been adequately examined. Utilizing isoelectric focusing, we examined the products of Chloramine T- and lactoperoxidase-directed radioiodinations of human calcitonin. Initially, the reaction products were purified by adsorption onto and elution from microfine silica (QUSO-G32). Radioiodination of the calcitonin by Chloramine T and lactoperoxidase produced a heterogeneous population of 125I-labeled peptides exhibiting apparent isoelectric points that were more acidic than that of unlabeled synthetic calcitonin. Variation in the products among radioiodinations and the inability of QUSO-G32 to resolve the components of the reaction mixture prompted our examination of alternative purification procedures. Anion-exchange chromatography on QAE-Sephadex effectively separated [125I]diiodotyrosine containing calcitonin from free iodine and [125I]iodolactoperoxidase. Our data indicate that: (a) radioiodination of human calcitonin by Chloramine T and lactoperoxidase induced alteration in the peptide as evidenced by isoelectric point, (b) specific [125I]iodopeptides vary in incidence and relative abundance among radioiodinations, (c) identification of the labeled amino acid in [125I]iodopeptides cannot ensure intergrity of the molecule, and (d) isoelectric focusing provides a method of comparing the products of peptide radioiodinations among laboratories.", "contents": "Heterogeneity of chloramine T- and lactoperoxidase-radioiodinated human calcitonin. Radioiodination reportedly damages peptides, but the nature of the damage has not been adequately examined. Utilizing isoelectric focusing, we examined the products of Chloramine T- and lactoperoxidase-directed radioiodinations of human calcitonin. Initially, the reaction products were purified by adsorption onto and elution from microfine silica (QUSO-G32). Radioiodination of the calcitonin by Chloramine T and lactoperoxidase produced a heterogeneous population of 125I-labeled peptides exhibiting apparent isoelectric points that were more acidic than that of unlabeled synthetic calcitonin. Variation in the products among radioiodinations and the inability of QUSO-G32 to resolve the components of the reaction mixture prompted our examination of alternative purification procedures. Anion-exchange chromatography on QAE-Sephadex effectively separated [125I]diiodotyrosine containing calcitonin from free iodine and [125I]iodolactoperoxidase. Our data indicate that: (a) radioiodination of human calcitonin by Chloramine T and lactoperoxidase induced alteration in the peptide as evidenced by isoelectric point, (b) specific [125I]iodopeptides vary in incidence and relative abundance among radioiodinations, (c) identification of the labeled amino acid in [125I]iodopeptides cannot ensure intergrity of the molecule, and (d) isoelectric focusing provides a method of comparing the products of peptide radioiodinations among laboratories.", "PMID": 445836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7286", "title": "Glucosuria: accuracy and precision of laboratory diagnosis by dip stick analysis.", "content": "Two urine dip-stick assays for glucose were studied and compared to a quantitative hexokinase procedure. We determined sensitivity, specificity, predictive value of \"normal\" and \"abnormal\" dip stick results, assay efficiency, technologist precision, and method association. Precision was poor. Attempts to estimate urine glucose concentration with the dip sticks frequently produced gross inaccuracies. We believe the dip stick glucose assay should be considered qualitative only; as a qualitative test, the dip sticks are fairly efficient at distinguishing glucose concentrations of less than 0.3 g/L from concentrations greater than 0.3 g/L.", "contents": "Glucosuria: accuracy and precision of laboratory diagnosis by dip stick analysis. Two urine dip-stick assays for glucose were studied and compared to a quantitative hexokinase procedure. We determined sensitivity, specificity, predictive value of \"normal\" and \"abnormal\" dip stick results, assay efficiency, technologist precision, and method association. Precision was poor. Attempts to estimate urine glucose concentration with the dip sticks frequently produced gross inaccuracies. We believe the dip stick glucose assay should be considered qualitative only; as a qualitative test, the dip sticks are fairly efficient at distinguishing glucose concentrations of less than 0.3 g/L from concentrations greater than 0.3 g/L.", "PMID": 445837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7287", "title": "Quantitative analysis of serum lipoproteins by micro-scale thin-layer chromatography.", "content": "A method has been devised for the complete chemical analysis of serum lipoproteins, in which the constituents are separated by thin-layer chromatography and then measured by means of a flame ionisation detector. Since the response of the detector differs for each constituent, it is necessary to use a previously prepared calibration curve for each one. A complete analysis can be obtained from a single run on about 20 microgram of lipoprotein. However, from 5--10 chromatograms are needed for an adequate degree of precision. The method, which could be adapted to the measurement of tissue lipids, takes less than 2 h to complete. This speed and simplicity seem to give the method considerable potential for the investigation of patients with disorders of lipid transport.", "contents": "Quantitative analysis of serum lipoproteins by micro-scale thin-layer chromatography. A method has been devised for the complete chemical analysis of serum lipoproteins, in which the constituents are separated by thin-layer chromatography and then measured by means of a flame ionisation detector. Since the response of the detector differs for each constituent, it is necessary to use a previously prepared calibration curve for each one. A complete analysis can be obtained from a single run on about 20 microgram of lipoprotein. However, from 5--10 chromatograms are needed for an adequate degree of precision. The method, which could be adapted to the measurement of tissue lipids, takes less than 2 h to complete. This speed and simplicity seem to give the method considerable potential for the investigation of patients with disorders of lipid transport.", "PMID": 445838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7288", "title": "Serum glycylproline dipeptidyl aminopeptidase activity in human hepatic cancer.", "content": "A method for the assay of glycylproline dipeptidyl aminopeptidase activity in the serum is described. The enzyme activity determination in sera from patients with hepatic cancer opens a possibility in the differential diagnosis of hepatobiliary diseases, because of the significantly higher values found in some cases of hepatic cancer. No correlation with alpha-fetoprotein was found.", "contents": "Serum glycylproline dipeptidyl aminopeptidase activity in human hepatic cancer. A method for the assay of glycylproline dipeptidyl aminopeptidase activity in the serum is described. The enzyme activity determination in sera from patients with hepatic cancer opens a possibility in the differential diagnosis of hepatobiliary diseases, because of the significantly higher values found in some cases of hepatic cancer. No correlation with alpha-fetoprotein was found.", "PMID": 445839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7289", "title": "Molecular forms of cobalt-activated acylase in human tissues and serum of patients with viral hepatitis.", "content": "Two molecular forms of cobalt-activated acylase present in human tissues and one or three in sera of patients with viral hepatitis were noted. They have different substrate specificity. Only form 2 is strongly inhibited by alpha-hydroxyisocaproyl-tyrosine and -phenylalanine. Electrophoretic migrations of all enzyme forms are different from those of aminoacylase. Immunoglobulin antiform 2 of the acylase does not precipitate other forms of cobalt-activated acylase or aminoacylase.", "contents": "Molecular forms of cobalt-activated acylase in human tissues and serum of patients with viral hepatitis. Two molecular forms of cobalt-activated acylase present in human tissues and one or three in sera of patients with viral hepatitis were noted. They have different substrate specificity. Only form 2 is strongly inhibited by alpha-hydroxyisocaproyl-tyrosine and -phenylalanine. Electrophoretic migrations of all enzyme forms are different from those of aminoacylase. Immunoglobulin antiform 2 of the acylase does not precipitate other forms of cobalt-activated acylase or aminoacylase.", "PMID": 445840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7290", "title": "Isoelectric focusing of acid hydrolases in human fibroblasts and leucocytes.", "content": "Lysosomal hydrolases in fibroblasts and leucocytes exhibited the same isoelectric focusing pattern as found in liver. Treatment with neuraminidase had a great effect on the pattern of several glycosidases while treatment with alkaline phosphatase did not significantly change the pattern. These findings are discussed with special reference to the different \"uptake\" systems that exist for acid hydrolases.", "contents": "Isoelectric focusing of acid hydrolases in human fibroblasts and leucocytes. Lysosomal hydrolases in fibroblasts and leucocytes exhibited the same isoelectric focusing pattern as found in liver. Treatment with neuraminidase had a great effect on the pattern of several glycosidases while treatment with alkaline phosphatase did not significantly change the pattern. These findings are discussed with special reference to the different \"uptake\" systems that exist for acid hydrolases.", "PMID": 445842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7291", "title": "Labile testosterone conjugate in human urine: further evidence.", "content": "The origin of unconjugated testosterone released in human urine on storage and by dilute sulphuric acid treatment has been studied further. Various extraction procedures of urine have been employed and a new methodology involving anion exchange followed by acid hydrolysis and radioimmunoassay of the released unconjugated testosterone. Results indicate that human urine contains a very labile conjugate of testosterone and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone with polar solubility properties and a negative charge.", "contents": "Labile testosterone conjugate in human urine: further evidence. The origin of unconjugated testosterone released in human urine on storage and by dilute sulphuric acid treatment has been studied further. Various extraction procedures of urine have been employed and a new methodology involving anion exchange followed by acid hydrolysis and radioimmunoassay of the released unconjugated testosterone. Results indicate that human urine contains a very labile conjugate of testosterone and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone with polar solubility properties and a negative charge.", "PMID": 445843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7292", "title": "Quantitation of proteins by electroimmunoassay using a digitizer connected with a programmable calculator.", "content": "A system is described which considerably facilitates the reading and the subsequent conversion of measured values to protein concentrations, when proteins are quantitated by the electroimmunoassay a.m. Laurell (1972). The rocket heights of calibration samples and unknown samples are read by a cursor on a magnetic table (Digitizer, Hewlett Packard) and the values are automatically transferred to a programmable calculator (HP 9830 A, Hewlett Packard). It is programmed to calculate the protein concentration of samples by interpolation on a calibration curve fitted to the best polynomium of second degree by the method of least squares. The results and sequence numbers are automatically printed out from a printer (HP 9866 A, Hewlett, Packard), Reading and calculation of the results from one plate with 5 calibration samples (in duplicate) and 20 unknown samples are completed in less than 2 min. This is 10--15 times faster compared with a manual procedure where a hand-drawn calibration curve is used for interpolation.", "contents": "Quantitation of proteins by electroimmunoassay using a digitizer connected with a programmable calculator. A system is described which considerably facilitates the reading and the subsequent conversion of measured values to protein concentrations, when proteins are quantitated by the electroimmunoassay a.m. Laurell (1972). The rocket heights of calibration samples and unknown samples are read by a cursor on a magnetic table (Digitizer, Hewlett Packard) and the values are automatically transferred to a programmable calculator (HP 9830 A, Hewlett Packard). It is programmed to calculate the protein concentration of samples by interpolation on a calibration curve fitted to the best polynomium of second degree by the method of least squares. The results and sequence numbers are automatically printed out from a printer (HP 9866 A, Hewlett, Packard), Reading and calculation of the results from one plate with 5 calibration samples (in duplicate) and 20 unknown samples are completed in less than 2 min. This is 10--15 times faster compared with a manual procedure where a hand-drawn calibration curve is used for interpolation.", "PMID": 445844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7293", "title": "Circulating thyroid hormones in a patient with hyperviscosity syndrome.", "content": "The elevated T4 levels by one RIA in the patient with hyperviscosity syndrome were probably caused by the interference of the increased protein concentration in the T4 assay rather than by hyperthyroidism or binding of T4 by immunoglobulins.", "contents": "Circulating thyroid hormones in a patient with hyperviscosity syndrome. The elevated T4 levels by one RIA in the patient with hyperviscosity syndrome were probably caused by the interference of the increased protein concentration in the T4 assay rather than by hyperthyroidism or binding of T4 by immunoglobulins.", "PMID": 445846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7294", "title": "Analysis of lidocaine and its dealkylated metabolites by high-pressure liquid chromatography.", "content": "A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method is presented for determining lidocaine and its dealkylated metabolites, monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide, in plasma. This method uses 20-microliter samples injected directly through a pre-column onto a C18 analytical column. It is fast, sensitive and linear over a concentration range of 1--10 microgram/ml. Since the method requires no preliminary treatment of the plasma, it provides a practical means of monitoring lidocaine and its metabolites in therapeutic situations.", "contents": "Analysis of lidocaine and its dealkylated metabolites by high-pressure liquid chromatography. A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method is presented for determining lidocaine and its dealkylated metabolites, monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide, in plasma. This method uses 20-microliter samples injected directly through a pre-column onto a C18 analytical column. It is fast, sensitive and linear over a concentration range of 1--10 microgram/ml. Since the method requires no preliminary treatment of the plasma, it provides a practical means of monitoring lidocaine and its metabolites in therapeutic situations.", "PMID": 445847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7295", "title": "Mechanisms of interference of nonesterified fatty acids in radioimmunoassays of steroids.", "content": "Addition of nonesterified fatty acids caused an apparent increase in unbound steroid present in supernatants in radioimmunoassays for steroids utilizing dextran-coated charcoal. Nonesterified fatty acid interference occurred at the initial binding interaction between steroid and its antiserum, and also at the step separating bound from unbound steroid. It was determined that nonesterified fatty acids, which had been added to radioimmunoassays, formed micelles and trapped steroids. The extent of the entrapment was inversely related to the number of polar groups in the steroid molecule, that is, hydrophobic steroids more easily interacted with the nonesterified fatty acid micelles. However, if the charcoal concentration were increased, the nonesterified fatty acid effect was eliminated for assays of polar steroids and greatly reduced for non-polar steroid assays.", "contents": "Mechanisms of interference of nonesterified fatty acids in radioimmunoassays of steroids. Addition of nonesterified fatty acids caused an apparent increase in unbound steroid present in supernatants in radioimmunoassays for steroids utilizing dextran-coated charcoal. Nonesterified fatty acid interference occurred at the initial binding interaction between steroid and its antiserum, and also at the step separating bound from unbound steroid. It was determined that nonesterified fatty acids, which had been added to radioimmunoassays, formed micelles and trapped steroids. The extent of the entrapment was inversely related to the number of polar groups in the steroid molecule, that is, hydrophobic steroids more easily interacted with the nonesterified fatty acid micelles. However, if the charcoal concentration were increased, the nonesterified fatty acid effect was eliminated for assays of polar steroids and greatly reduced for non-polar steroid assays.", "PMID": 445848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7296", "title": "Hair chromium concentrations in adult insulin-treated diabetics.", "content": "Hair chromium concentrations have been measured in age- and sex-matched groups of insulin-treated diabetics and normal controls. Average concentration (+/- S.E.M.) was reduced in female (2.9 +/- 0.5 compared with 5.1 +/- 0.7 nmol/g) but not in male diabetics.", "contents": "Hair chromium concentrations in adult insulin-treated diabetics. Hair chromium concentrations have been measured in age- and sex-matched groups of insulin-treated diabetics and normal controls. Average concentration (+/- S.E.M.) was reduced in female (2.9 +/- 0.5 compared with 5.1 +/- 0.7 nmol/g) but not in male diabetics.", "PMID": 445850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7297", "title": "A radioreceptor assay for diazepam and its metabolites in serum.", "content": "A radioreceptor method is described for the estimation of serum concentrations of diazepam and its metabolites. The technique is simple, rapid and suitable for batch analysis. Ad advantage of the technique is that it gives a measure of the total pharmacological activity of the serum samples towards the benzodiazepine receptor and is thus directly applicable to benzodiazepines other than diazepam. The results obtained by the radioreceptor assay and by a GLC technique are correlated.", "contents": "A radioreceptor assay for diazepam and its metabolites in serum. A radioreceptor method is described for the estimation of serum concentrations of diazepam and its metabolites. The technique is simple, rapid and suitable for batch analysis. Ad advantage of the technique is that it gives a measure of the total pharmacological activity of the serum samples towards the benzodiazepine receptor and is thus directly applicable to benzodiazepines other than diazepam. The results obtained by the radioreceptor assay and by a GLC technique are correlated.", "PMID": 445851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7298", "title": "Comparison of intermethod analytical variability of patient sera and commercial quality control sera.", "content": "The intermethod analytical variability of 59 commercially available control sera was compared with that of patient sera. For this purpose, patient and control sera were assayed with respect to ten constituents (albumin, alkaline phosphatase, alpha-amylase, cholesterol, glucose, iron, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, protein, and urea), each with two analytical methods. Only 6 of the 59 control materials showed an intermethod analytical variability comparable to that of the patient sera for all of the determinations. The use of patient sera for the calibration of routine analytical methods is recommended.", "contents": "Comparison of intermethod analytical variability of patient sera and commercial quality control sera. The intermethod analytical variability of 59 commercially available control sera was compared with that of patient sera. For this purpose, patient and control sera were assayed with respect to ten constituents (albumin, alkaline phosphatase, alpha-amylase, cholesterol, glucose, iron, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, protein, and urea), each with two analytical methods. Only 6 of the 59 control materials showed an intermethod analytical variability comparable to that of the patient sera for all of the determinations. The use of patient sera for the calibration of routine analytical methods is recommended.", "PMID": 445852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7299", "title": "Clinical application of breath analysis for dimethyl sulfide following ingestion of DL-methionine.", "content": "After overnight-fasting, the concentration of dimethyl sulfide in expired alveolar gas (alv-DMS) was determined serially following ingestion of 2 g of DL-methionine in normal subjects and patients with liver diseases. Alv-DMS rose to a peak in 30 to 90 min, declined markedly within 3 h, and then decreased gradually. Half-disappearance times (T 1/2) (mean +/- S.E. min) in each experimental group were: normal (N = 9) 61.7 +/- 4.7, acute hepatitis (N = 6) 62.5 +/- 6.8, chronic hepatitis (N = 10) 84.0 +/- 13.0, and liver cirrhosis (N = 13) 159.2 +/- 30.4, respectively. Cirrhotics had a T 1/2 significantly longer than that of the other three groups: vs. normal P less than 0.02, vs. acute hepatitis P less than 0.05, and vs. chronic hepatitis P less than 0.05. T 1/2 of alv-DMS following ingestion of DL-methionine seems to be of clinical interest.", "contents": "Clinical application of breath analysis for dimethyl sulfide following ingestion of DL-methionine. After overnight-fasting, the concentration of dimethyl sulfide in expired alveolar gas (alv-DMS) was determined serially following ingestion of 2 g of DL-methionine in normal subjects and patients with liver diseases. Alv-DMS rose to a peak in 30 to 90 min, declined markedly within 3 h, and then decreased gradually. Half-disappearance times (T 1/2) (mean +/- S.E. min) in each experimental group were: normal (N = 9) 61.7 +/- 4.7, acute hepatitis (N = 6) 62.5 +/- 6.8, chronic hepatitis (N = 10) 84.0 +/- 13.0, and liver cirrhosis (N = 13) 159.2 +/- 30.4, respectively. Cirrhotics had a T 1/2 significantly longer than that of the other three groups: vs. normal P less than 0.02, vs. acute hepatitis P less than 0.05, and vs. chronic hepatitis P less than 0.05. T 1/2 of alv-DMS following ingestion of DL-methionine seems to be of clinical interest.", "PMID": 445853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7300", "title": "Routine identification and determination of 11 barbiturates in biological samples.", "content": "A very easy, reliable and specific gas-chromatographic method for identification and dosage of 11 barbiturates in plasma is presented. Methylene unit values determined on two types of column (one polar, one non-polar) allows very accurate identification with a minimum risk of error due to fluctuations in operating conditions. Sensitivity of the method is 0.5 microgram/ml plasma with a flame ionization detector. Derivatization procedure is complete, without any degradation phenomenon as tested by mass spectrometry. Such a method can be easily used as routine procedure for toxicological or pharmacological applications.", "contents": "Routine identification and determination of 11 barbiturates in biological samples. A very easy, reliable and specific gas-chromatographic method for identification and dosage of 11 barbiturates in plasma is presented. Methylene unit values determined on two types of column (one polar, one non-polar) allows very accurate identification with a minimum risk of error due to fluctuations in operating conditions. Sensitivity of the method is 0.5 microgram/ml plasma with a flame ionization detector. Derivatization procedure is complete, without any degradation phenomenon as tested by mass spectrometry. Such a method can be easily used as routine procedure for toxicological or pharmacological applications.", "PMID": 445855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7301", "title": "Prolidase deficiency with imidodipeptiduria. A familial case with and without clinical symptoms.", "content": "A 23-year-old female with chronic leg ulcer was found to excrete the massive imidopeptides, among which Asp-Pro, Glu-Pro and Gly-Pro were identified. Essentially no prolidase activity was measured in her erythrocytes, while prolinase activity was within a normal range. Her 26-year-old brother also showed imidopeptiduria and erythrocyte prolidase deficiency, but no clinical symptoms were observed. Erythrocytes from her father and 30-year-old brother, who excreted no significant amounts of imidodipeptides, showed intermediate values for the prolidase activity between those for the patient and for normal adults, suggesting that they are heterozygous for this autosomal recessive disorder.", "contents": "Prolidase deficiency with imidodipeptiduria. A familial case with and without clinical symptoms. A 23-year-old female with chronic leg ulcer was found to excrete the massive imidopeptides, among which Asp-Pro, Glu-Pro and Gly-Pro were identified. Essentially no prolidase activity was measured in her erythrocytes, while prolinase activity was within a normal range. Her 26-year-old brother also showed imidopeptiduria and erythrocyte prolidase deficiency, but no clinical symptoms were observed. Erythrocytes from her father and 30-year-old brother, who excreted no significant amounts of imidodipeptides, showed intermediate values for the prolidase activity between those for the patient and for normal adults, suggesting that they are heterozygous for this autosomal recessive disorder.", "PMID": 445856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7302", "title": "Serum beta-hexosaminidases in pregnancy.", "content": "Serum contains several hexosaminidase forms. Two, HEX A and HEX B, migrate in both DEAE cellulose and isoelectric focussing systems like their tissue counterparts. A major group of serum hexosaminidases migrate in an intermediate position. These forms, collectively named HEX 1, increase during pregnancy and obscure carrier detection for Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff's disease. Using DEAE-cellulose chromatography, HEX A, I, and B, can be clearly separated. In normals, activity ratios of A/B are 4.03 +/- 1.33. During pregnancy the ratio falls slightly to 3.01 +/- 1.08. In Tay-Sachs heterozygotes the ratio is only 1.08 +/- 0.35 and falls during early pregnancy to 0.53 +/- 0.23. In Sandhoff heterozygotes the DEAE chromatograms appear normal with higher than normal A/B ratios but in sera, from both pregnant and nonpregnant carriers, the HEX B and HEX I forms are 50% heat labile. During pregnancy, serum can be used as a reliable source of HEX for heterozygote identification for both Sandhoff's and Tay-Sachs disease.", "contents": "Serum beta-hexosaminidases in pregnancy. Serum contains several hexosaminidase forms. Two, HEX A and HEX B, migrate in both DEAE cellulose and isoelectric focussing systems like their tissue counterparts. A major group of serum hexosaminidases migrate in an intermediate position. These forms, collectively named HEX 1, increase during pregnancy and obscure carrier detection for Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff's disease. Using DEAE-cellulose chromatography, HEX A, I, and B, can be clearly separated. In normals, activity ratios of A/B are 4.03 +/- 1.33. During pregnancy the ratio falls slightly to 3.01 +/- 1.08. In Tay-Sachs heterozygotes the ratio is only 1.08 +/- 0.35 and falls during early pregnancy to 0.53 +/- 0.23. In Sandhoff heterozygotes the DEAE chromatograms appear normal with higher than normal A/B ratios but in sera, from both pregnant and nonpregnant carriers, the HEX B and HEX I forms are 50% heat labile. During pregnancy, serum can be used as a reliable source of HEX for heterozygote identification for both Sandhoff's and Tay-Sachs disease.", "PMID": 445857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7303", "title": "An improved extraction method for plasma steroid hormones.", "content": "An easy and rapid column chromatographic method for the extraction of steroid hormones from plasma is presented. It permits the nearly quantitative separation of the steroids in a single step with smaller expenditure of time and work as compared to the usual liquid-liquid extraction. Problems of emulsions are eliminated. Furthermore, fractionated separation of hormones from plasma is possible. A simple procedure for the selective extraction of estriol (isolated from estrone and estradiol) is described.", "contents": "An improved extraction method for plasma steroid hormones. An easy and rapid column chromatographic method for the extraction of steroid hormones from plasma is presented. It permits the nearly quantitative separation of the steroids in a single step with smaller expenditure of time and work as compared to the usual liquid-liquid extraction. Problems of emulsions are eliminated. Furthermore, fractionated separation of hormones from plasma is possible. A simple procedure for the selective extraction of estriol (isolated from estrone and estradiol) is described.", "PMID": 445858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7304", "title": "Electroencephalographic change in Parkinsonian patients treated with levodopa-carbidopa.", "content": "Our findings in a relatively small series of cases seem to confirm a lack of statistically significant EEG changes when Carbidopa is combined with Levodopa in the therapy of patients with Parkinson's disease. There appears to be a slight increase in basic background frequency which was one of the earlier findings when Levodopa was first used clinically. From the literature surveyed there appears to be a definite lack of consistency in the effects of Levodopa therapy on the electroencephalogram and on the clinical status of the patients followed. We think this well may be explainable by the fact that no large study has been accomplished in which a neuroanatomical (pathological) correlation has been done with both the clinical and the EEG data. Neurological examination and the electroencephalogram are both clinical tools and have yet to be closely reviewed with the added parameter of neuro-pathologic investigation in this new day of therapy for Parkinson's disease.", "contents": "Electroencephalographic change in Parkinsonian patients treated with levodopa-carbidopa. Our findings in a relatively small series of cases seem to confirm a lack of statistically significant EEG changes when Carbidopa is combined with Levodopa in the therapy of patients with Parkinson's disease. There appears to be a slight increase in basic background frequency which was one of the earlier findings when Levodopa was first used clinically. From the literature surveyed there appears to be a definite lack of consistency in the effects of Levodopa therapy on the electroencephalogram and on the clinical status of the patients followed. We think this well may be explainable by the fact that no large study has been accomplished in which a neuroanatomical (pathological) correlation has been done with both the clinical and the EEG data. Neurological examination and the electroencephalogram are both clinical tools and have yet to be closely reviewed with the added parameter of neuro-pathologic investigation in this new day of therapy for Parkinson's disease.", "PMID": 445860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7305", "title": "Electroencephalographic analysis of malignant melanoma patients.", "content": "EEGs carried out in 202 patients with melanoma were abnormal in 33%. In the absence of systemic or brain metastasis 14% of the patients had abnormal records. If systemic metastases without brain metastasis were present 45% of the patients had abnormal records and with brain metastasis 88% had abnormal EEGs. Only a third of the patients with abnormal records had brain metastasis but metastatic spread to some organ system was present in 76% of those with EEG abnormalities. The diffuse abnormality was less likely to be a \"false positive.\" Ninety-seven percent of the patients with diffuse EEG abnormality had systemic metastasis but 43% of the patients with focal EEG changes had no detected metastasis.", "contents": "Electroencephalographic analysis of malignant melanoma patients. EEGs carried out in 202 patients with melanoma were abnormal in 33%. In the absence of systemic or brain metastasis 14% of the patients had abnormal records. If systemic metastases without brain metastasis were present 45% of the patients had abnormal records and with brain metastasis 88% had abnormal EEGs. Only a third of the patients with abnormal records had brain metastasis but metastatic spread to some organ system was present in 76% of those with EEG abnormalities. The diffuse abnormality was less likely to be a \"false positive.\" Ninety-seven percent of the patients with diffuse EEG abnormality had systemic metastasis but 43% of the patients with focal EEG changes had no detected metastasis.", "PMID": 445861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7306", "title": "Variability between and within laboratories in the analysis of structural chromosomal abnormalities.", "content": "The frequency of structural chromosomal aberrations in two samples (AM and PM of the same day) from each of nine normal subjects, cultured in two different laboratories, was studied by six observers. The results were analyzed in order to determine the relative importance of inter- and intralaboratory factors in the variability of chromosomal abnormalities. In addition to the difference in the frequency of the abnormalities between the subjects studied, there were differences due to observers from different laboratories (P less than 0.01), as well as between laboratories (P less than 0.01). These results could be explained in part by insufficient agreement between observers from different laboratories and by differences in the quality of the method used.", "contents": "Variability between and within laboratories in the analysis of structural chromosomal abnormalities. The frequency of structural chromosomal aberrations in two samples (AM and PM of the same day) from each of nine normal subjects, cultured in two different laboratories, was studied by six observers. The results were analyzed in order to determine the relative importance of inter- and intralaboratory factors in the variability of chromosomal abnormalities. In addition to the difference in the frequency of the abnormalities between the subjects studied, there were differences due to observers from different laboratories (P less than 0.01), as well as between laboratories (P less than 0.01). These results could be explained in part by insufficient agreement between observers from different laboratories and by differences in the quality of the method used.", "PMID": 445862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7307", "title": "Two XX male brothers.", "content": "Two brothers with XX male syndrome with penoscrotal hypospadias are reported. Chromosomal analysis of cells from the peripheral blood, skin, and testes revealed a normal female karyotype in both subjects. Biopsy of both testes in the brothers showed histological features of normal immature testes and no evidence of ovarian structures. Neither vagina, uterus nor fallopian tubes could be detected either by exploratory laparotomy or retrograde urethrography. Results of endocrine studies on serum gonadotropins (LH and FSH) and testosterone levels as well as their responses to LH-RH and hCG stimulation tests were normal for age. Studies of various genetic markers, including the Xg blood type and erythrocyte enzymes, were performed in the probands and their parents. Possible explanations for the paradoxical occurrence of testes in XX males and for the familial occurrence are discussed.", "contents": "Two XX male brothers. Two brothers with XX male syndrome with penoscrotal hypospadias are reported. Chromosomal analysis of cells from the peripheral blood, skin, and testes revealed a normal female karyotype in both subjects. Biopsy of both testes in the brothers showed histological features of normal immature testes and no evidence of ovarian structures. Neither vagina, uterus nor fallopian tubes could be detected either by exploratory laparotomy or retrograde urethrography. Results of endocrine studies on serum gonadotropins (LH and FSH) and testosterone levels as well as their responses to LH-RH and hCG stimulation tests were normal for age. Studies of various genetic markers, including the Xg blood type and erythrocyte enzymes, were performed in the probands and their parents. Possible explanations for the paradoxical occurrence of testes in XX males and for the familial occurrence are discussed.", "PMID": 445863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7308", "title": "Nonketotic hyperglycinemia. A genetic study of 13 Finnish families.", "content": "In Finland, 19 children, born 1964--1977, from 13 families, have been diagnosed as suffering from nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH). This gives an incidence for NKH in the Finnish population of 1:55,000 newborns. The majority of these children were born in the northern part of the country, where the incidence is 1:12,000. The geographical distribution of the birth-places of the grandparents also seems to point towards an enrichment of the gene in northern Finland. An autosomal recessive mode of inheritance for this disease seems probable, since the corrected proportion of affected siblings (Apert's a priori method) is 0.288. Abnormally high plasma glycine concentration and elevated glycine urinary excretion in the parents of the NKH-children suggest the existence of a minor metabolic defect in heterozygotes of this disease. Some of the healthy siblings of the NKH-patients also show similary elevated levels. However, a definite diagnosis of the NKH-heterozygote state cannot easily be made on the basis of these laboratory findings, as the levels in some individuals are very close to, or even overlap corresponding values in a normal material.", "contents": "Nonketotic hyperglycinemia. A genetic study of 13 Finnish families. In Finland, 19 children, born 1964--1977, from 13 families, have been diagnosed as suffering from nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH). This gives an incidence for NKH in the Finnish population of 1:55,000 newborns. The majority of these children were born in the northern part of the country, where the incidence is 1:12,000. The geographical distribution of the birth-places of the grandparents also seems to point towards an enrichment of the gene in northern Finland. An autosomal recessive mode of inheritance for this disease seems probable, since the corrected proportion of affected siblings (Apert's a priori method) is 0.288. Abnormally high plasma glycine concentration and elevated glycine urinary excretion in the parents of the NKH-children suggest the existence of a minor metabolic defect in heterozygotes of this disease. Some of the healthy siblings of the NKH-patients also show similary elevated levels. However, a definite diagnosis of the NKH-heterozygote state cannot easily be made on the basis of these laboratory findings, as the levels in some individuals are very close to, or even overlap corresponding values in a normal material.", "PMID": 445864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7309", "title": "Description of chromosome banding patterns by band transition sequences: a new basis for automated chromosome analysis.", "content": "For visual and automated analysis of banded human chromosomes, the band pattern features of chromosome profiles considered essential for the cytogeneticist were evaluated. These features were found to be related to each peak (dark band) and its adjacent valley (light band) in the direction p--q. A method for extracting and describing these features was developed and implemented on a computer. The method determines three normalized parameters for each peak and adjacent valley: (1) density of peak; (2) density difference (transition) between peak and valley; and (3) position of peak. Each profile is described by a simple sequence of band transitions (BT-sequence). The BT-sequence was visualized as a profile (BT-profile) using only the information retained in the BT-sequence. Visual classification of BT-profiles shows error rates comparable to visual classification of ordinary density profiles (Lundsteen & Granum 1979). It is therefore concluded that the BT-profiles do retain the important band pattern features of the profiles, and it is supposed that the simple and condensed BT-sequences constitute an appropriate basis for automated karyotyping.", "contents": "Description of chromosome banding patterns by band transition sequences: a new basis for automated chromosome analysis. For visual and automated analysis of banded human chromosomes, the band pattern features of chromosome profiles considered essential for the cytogeneticist were evaluated. These features were found to be related to each peak (dark band) and its adjacent valley (light band) in the direction p--q. A method for extracting and describing these features was developed and implemented on a computer. The method determines three normalized parameters for each peak and adjacent valley: (1) density of peak; (2) density difference (transition) between peak and valley; and (3) position of peak. Each profile is described by a simple sequence of band transitions (BT-sequence). The BT-sequence was visualized as a profile (BT-profile) using only the information retained in the BT-sequence. Visual classification of BT-profiles shows error rates comparable to visual classification of ordinary density profiles (Lundsteen & Granum 1979). It is therefore concluded that the BT-profiles do retain the important band pattern features of the profiles, and it is supposed that the simple and condensed BT-sequences constitute an appropriate basis for automated karyotyping.", "PMID": 445865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7310", "title": "Visual classification of banded human chromosomes. III. Classification and karyotyping of density profiles described by band transition sequences.", "content": "Band transition profiles (BT-profiles) representing extracted band pattern features of 898 density profiles of banded chromosomes were classified and karyotyped by a cytogeneticist in order to investigate how much information was lost by substituting for the original density profiles their extracted features. The results were evaluated and compared with visual classification and karyotyping of the same 898 density profiles from which the BT-profiles were derived. Six per cent errors were made in classification of isolated BT-profiles and 0.7% errors were made in karyotyping BT-profiles. These error rates were comparable to the corresponding error rates in classifying and karyotyping density profiles, which were 5% and 0.5%, respectively. It is concluded that most of the important band pattern information of the density profiles is retained in the BT-profiles, and it is supposed that the condensed BT-sequences (from which the BT-profiles are derived) constitute a sufficient and appropriate basis for automated karyotyping.", "contents": "Visual classification of banded human chromosomes. III. Classification and karyotyping of density profiles described by band transition sequences. Band transition profiles (BT-profiles) representing extracted band pattern features of 898 density profiles of banded chromosomes were classified and karyotyped by a cytogeneticist in order to investigate how much information was lost by substituting for the original density profiles their extracted features. The results were evaluated and compared with visual classification and karyotyping of the same 898 density profiles from which the BT-profiles were derived. Six per cent errors were made in classification of isolated BT-profiles and 0.7% errors were made in karyotyping BT-profiles. These error rates were comparable to the corresponding error rates in classifying and karyotyping density profiles, which were 5% and 0.5%, respectively. It is concluded that most of the important band pattern information of the density profiles is retained in the BT-profiles, and it is supposed that the condensed BT-sequences (from which the BT-profiles are derived) constitute a sufficient and appropriate basis for automated karyotyping.", "PMID": 445866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7311", "title": "Trisomy 20 mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell culture.", "content": "Chromosomal mosaicism in cultured amniotic fluid cells presents one of the most difficult problems in prenatal diagnosis in predicting the foetal phenotype. We present a case in which trisomy 20 mosaicism was diagnosed prenatally but not confirmed in the aborted foetus.", "contents": "Trisomy 20 mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell culture. Chromosomal mosaicism in cultured amniotic fluid cells presents one of the most difficult problems in prenatal diagnosis in predicting the foetal phenotype. We present a case in which trisomy 20 mosaicism was diagnosed prenatally but not confirmed in the aborted foetus.", "PMID": 445867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7312", "title": "Partial trisomy for the distal long arm of chromosome 5 (region q34 leads to qter). A new clinically recognizable syndrome.", "content": "This report describes a family in which eight individuals in three generations had mental retardation in association with a characteristic pattern of clinical problems and physical abnormalities including short stature, eczema, hernias, delayed puberty, dysmorphic facies and digital anomalies. The family history was consistent with a chromosomal rearrangement with transmission through balanced carriers. Routine ASG banding studies showed extra chromosomal material on a chromosome 16 but failed to demonstrate any differences between the affected individuals and the presumed carriers. However, subsequent studies utilizing trypsin banding and microspectrophotometry of individual chromosomes demonstrated that the affected individuals were partially trisomic for the distal band of the long arm of chromosome 5 and that 0.273 units of a chromosome 5 were translocated to chromosome 16. This definitive cytogenetic diagnosis permitted accurate prenatal diagnosis to be carried out on the fetus of a balanced carrier female. The application of these techniques to previously obscure familial dysmorphic syndromes is recommended.", "contents": "Partial trisomy for the distal long arm of chromosome 5 (region q34 leads to qter). A new clinically recognizable syndrome. This report describes a family in which eight individuals in three generations had mental retardation in association with a characteristic pattern of clinical problems and physical abnormalities including short stature, eczema, hernias, delayed puberty, dysmorphic facies and digital anomalies. The family history was consistent with a chromosomal rearrangement with transmission through balanced carriers. Routine ASG banding studies showed extra chromosomal material on a chromosome 16 but failed to demonstrate any differences between the affected individuals and the presumed carriers. However, subsequent studies utilizing trypsin banding and microspectrophotometry of individual chromosomes demonstrated that the affected individuals were partially trisomic for the distal band of the long arm of chromosome 5 and that 0.273 units of a chromosome 5 were translocated to chromosome 16. This definitive cytogenetic diagnosis permitted accurate prenatal diagnosis to be carried out on the fetus of a balanced carrier female. The application of these techniques to previously obscure familial dysmorphic syndromes is recommended.", "PMID": 445868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7313", "title": "Evaluation of ankle fractures: non-operative and operative treatment.", "content": "A relatively great number of supination abduction fractures did not need surgical treatment because displacement was not present. Significantly better results occurred with operative intervention in supination--eversion and pronation--eversion ankle fractures. Supination--abduction and supination--eversion ankle fractures are best treated by open reduction, anatomical restoration and stabilization of the fractures.", "contents": "Evaluation of ankle fractures: non-operative and operative treatment. A relatively great number of supination abduction fractures did not need surgical treatment because displacement was not present. Significantly better results occurred with operative intervention in supination--eversion and pronation--eversion ankle fractures. Supination--abduction and supination--eversion ankle fractures are best treated by open reduction, anatomical restoration and stabilization of the fractures.", "PMID": 445892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7314", "title": "The role of early internal fixation in the management of open fractures.", "content": "A series of 101 victims of multiple trauma and open fractures were treated by early open reduction and internal fixation. Some of the fractures included associated vascular injury. Some of the patients had extensive intraarticular fractures. Femur fractures in the elderly were included. All wounds were left open. In 94 patients, the early infection rate was 1.9% in small clean open (type I) wounds, 8% in large open (type II) wounds, and 41% in extensively contused large open (type III) wounds. In 94 cases the overall infection rate was 10.6%. In only one infection (1%) a long-term chronic osteomyelitis ensued; there were no non-unions in long bone fractures. Open fractures with type I wounds have the same infection rate as reported for closed fractures. In fractures with types II and III wounds salvage of limb, life, or joint function must justify the high risk of infection. Immediate plate fixation of severe open fractures of the tibia could save a limb from amputation. Closed intramedullary nailing of open fractures of the femur carries a high rate of success.", "contents": "The role of early internal fixation in the management of open fractures. A series of 101 victims of multiple trauma and open fractures were treated by early open reduction and internal fixation. Some of the fractures included associated vascular injury. Some of the patients had extensive intraarticular fractures. Femur fractures in the elderly were included. All wounds were left open. In 94 patients, the early infection rate was 1.9% in small clean open (type I) wounds, 8% in large open (type II) wounds, and 41% in extensively contused large open (type III) wounds. In 94 cases the overall infection rate was 10.6%. In only one infection (1%) a long-term chronic osteomyelitis ensued; there were no non-unions in long bone fractures. Open fractures with type I wounds have the same infection rate as reported for closed fractures. In fractures with types II and III wounds salvage of limb, life, or joint function must justify the high risk of infection. Immediate plate fixation of severe open fractures of the tibia could save a limb from amputation. Closed intramedullary nailing of open fractures of the femur carries a high rate of success.", "PMID": 445893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7315", "title": "Open fractures. Long-term results in 200 consecutive cases.", "content": "Two hundred consecutive patients admitted with 214 open fractures were reevaluated 6--10 years following injury. All patients were seen in follow-up by the authors. The average hospital stay was 36 days. Many of the patients sustained multiple injuries in automobile accidents. Concomitant head, chest or abdominal trauma occurred in 41% of the patients; 38% sustained multiple fractures. The average patient achieved full weight-bearing at 28 weeks. Late complications were infrequent. All postoperative bone infections (7%) were eradicated with appropriate treatment an average of 27 months postinjury; all of the infected fractures united, and no major limitations of motion resulted. Roentgenograms taken an average of 8 years postinjury revealed only 9 patients with major joint incongruities or arthritic changes. All of the fractures were united except for one with an asymptomatic fibrous union of the patella. Anatomic restitution was possible in most patients. Only one patient had an axial malalignment which necessitated correction by osteotomy and 6 patients had shortening of 1 cm or less. The functional results were excellent with only minor limitations of motion having been found in 25 patients. Disability payments were made to 39 patients and all patients (except for the one who retired due to age) had returned to their prior jobs.", "contents": "Open fractures. Long-term results in 200 consecutive cases. Two hundred consecutive patients admitted with 214 open fractures were reevaluated 6--10 years following injury. All patients were seen in follow-up by the authors. The average hospital stay was 36 days. Many of the patients sustained multiple injuries in automobile accidents. Concomitant head, chest or abdominal trauma occurred in 41% of the patients; 38% sustained multiple fractures. The average patient achieved full weight-bearing at 28 weeks. Late complications were infrequent. All postoperative bone infections (7%) were eradicated with appropriate treatment an average of 27 months postinjury; all of the infected fractures united, and no major limitations of motion resulted. Roentgenograms taken an average of 8 years postinjury revealed only 9 patients with major joint incongruities or arthritic changes. All of the fractures were united except for one with an asymptomatic fibrous union of the patella. Anatomic restitution was possible in most patients. Only one patient had an axial malalignment which necessitated correction by osteotomy and 6 patients had shortening of 1 cm or less. The functional results were excellent with only minor limitations of motion having been found in 25 patients. Disability payments were made to 39 patients and all patients (except for the one who retired due to age) had returned to their prior jobs.", "PMID": 445894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7316", "title": "Compression treatment of long bone pseudarthroses.", "content": "In 122 cases of non-union and delayed union, rigid fixation with Swiss compression plates without the use of casts, produced 92.6% success with the first operation. Half of the cases, especially in the well aligned fractures with hypertrophic callus, were treated without bone grafts and without resecting the pseudarthrosis. Non-resection did not adversely affect the healing time or rate. There were 9 failures or 7.4% chiefly in the difficult hypovascular atrophic bone-grafted group. Many of these cases were treated with shingling and grafts as well; 4 cases showed signs of healing but refractured secondary to trauma; 4 of 5 failures were replated and eventually healed. About 83% of the 24 infected cases healed with one compression plate operation. All of the fractures that were dry pre- and post-operatively united. In a few with drainage and poor skin coverage or cicatrix, rigid fixation with external fixators and Steinmann pins were applied. Early active exercises with delayed weight-bearing until union, gave remarkable return of function even in the difficult metaphyseal pseudarthroses. The compression method of rigid fixation is an excellent adjuvant to pseudarthrosis therapy.", "contents": "Compression treatment of long bone pseudarthroses. In 122 cases of non-union and delayed union, rigid fixation with Swiss compression plates without the use of casts, produced 92.6% success with the first operation. Half of the cases, especially in the well aligned fractures with hypertrophic callus, were treated without bone grafts and without resecting the pseudarthrosis. Non-resection did not adversely affect the healing time or rate. There were 9 failures or 7.4% chiefly in the difficult hypovascular atrophic bone-grafted group. Many of these cases were treated with shingling and grafts as well; 4 cases showed signs of healing but refractured secondary to trauma; 4 of 5 failures were replated and eventually healed. About 83% of the 24 infected cases healed with one compression plate operation. All of the fractures that were dry pre- and post-operatively united. In a few with drainage and poor skin coverage or cicatrix, rigid fixation with external fixators and Steinmann pins were applied. Early active exercises with delayed weight-bearing until union, gave remarkable return of function even in the difficult metaphyseal pseudarthroses. The compression method of rigid fixation is an excellent adjuvant to pseudarthrosis therapy.", "PMID": 445896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7317", "title": "A radiological and histological analysis of fracture healing using prebending of compression plates.", "content": "The use of an exactly contoured compression plate to the surface of a bone will lead to asymmetrical loading of that fracture line with possible gapping of bone opposite the plate. The stability of fixation can be increased through the use of compression combined with prebending. The present study in 19 sheep demonstrates the biological effects of 3 modes of plating fixation: (1) no compression; (2) compression; and (3) compression after prebending using 2 types of compression plates with different stiffness evaluated radiographically and histologically. Compression together with prebending, especially when using plates of adequate stiffness, can prevent bone resorption at the fragment surfaces even under immediate weight-bearing conditions in the sheep tibia. Prevention of interfragmentary bone resorption lowers the risk of non-union and/or implant failure secondary to motion at the fracture site.", "contents": "A radiological and histological analysis of fracture healing using prebending of compression plates. The use of an exactly contoured compression plate to the surface of a bone will lead to asymmetrical loading of that fracture line with possible gapping of bone opposite the plate. The stability of fixation can be increased through the use of compression combined with prebending. The present study in 19 sheep demonstrates the biological effects of 3 modes of plating fixation: (1) no compression; (2) compression; and (3) compression after prebending using 2 types of compression plates with different stiffness evaluated radiographically and histologically. Compression together with prebending, especially when using plates of adequate stiffness, can prevent bone resorption at the fragment surfaces even under immediate weight-bearing conditions in the sheep tibia. Prevention of interfragmentary bone resorption lowers the risk of non-union and/or implant failure secondary to motion at the fracture site.", "PMID": 445897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7318", "title": "Orthopedic problems in hemophilia.", "content": "Orthopedic management of the various complications resulting from musculo-skeletal bleeds in the hemophiliac, has now become standard and routine. However, the orthopedist should never minimize the threat of iatrogenic disease resulting from his surgery, or from the hemostatic control necessary for all operations. Operations should be properly indicated with standard and established techniques always being used. The development of antibodies, the risk of wound breakdown and secondary infection, and the need for further operative intervention, all create serious hazards to the hemophiliac patient. The orthopedist must be fully supported by a hematologist and laboratory back-up. Finally he should understand coagulation control and the necessity for its monitoring.", "contents": "Orthopedic problems in hemophilia. Orthopedic management of the various complications resulting from musculo-skeletal bleeds in the hemophiliac, has now become standard and routine. However, the orthopedist should never minimize the threat of iatrogenic disease resulting from his surgery, or from the hemostatic control necessary for all operations. Operations should be properly indicated with standard and established techniques always being used. The development of antibodies, the risk of wound breakdown and secondary infection, and the need for further operative intervention, all create serious hazards to the hemophiliac patient. The orthopedist must be fully supported by a hematologist and laboratory back-up. Finally he should understand coagulation control and the necessity for its monitoring.", "PMID": 445900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7319", "title": "Idiopathic protrusio acetabuli. A histological study.", "content": "Histological features of the acetabular floor in idiopathic protrusio acetabuli consist of replacement of the marrow spaces with active vascular fibrous granulation tissue and in some areas disruption of the trabecular pattern. This process could possibly elucidate the pathogenesis of protrusio.", "contents": "Idiopathic protrusio acetabuli. A histological study. Histological features of the acetabular floor in idiopathic protrusio acetabuli consist of replacement of the marrow spaces with active vascular fibrous granulation tissue and in some areas disruption of the trabecular pattern. This process could possibly elucidate the pathogenesis of protrusio.", "PMID": 445903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7320", "title": "Treatment of pertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures of the femur by the Ender method.", "content": "The Ender method consists of insertion of round, flexible, condylocephalic intramedullary nails. In 104 patients with a median age of 77 years and 80% older than 70 years, the morbidity was high (owing to concomitant diseases in 73%). Follow-up examination of survivals showed good functional results. There was some tendency to shortening, more than 2 cm in 15% of the patients. External rotation deformity of more than 20 degrees was observed in 15% of patients. Towards the end of the series when precautionary measures were taken to avoid this, the number of patients with such deformity decreased. The advantages of the Ender method are: a short operation time, minor operative trauma and early mobilization and weight-bearing. Because of some rotational instability the method should be reserved for patients older than 65--70 years.", "contents": "Treatment of pertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures of the femur by the Ender method. The Ender method consists of insertion of round, flexible, condylocephalic intramedullary nails. In 104 patients with a median age of 77 years and 80% older than 70 years, the morbidity was high (owing to concomitant diseases in 73%). Follow-up examination of survivals showed good functional results. There was some tendency to shortening, more than 2 cm in 15% of the patients. External rotation deformity of more than 20 degrees was observed in 15% of patients. Towards the end of the series when precautionary measures were taken to avoid this, the number of patients with such deformity decreased. The advantages of the Ender method are: a short operation time, minor operative trauma and early mobilization and weight-bearing. Because of some rotational instability the method should be reserved for patients older than 65--70 years.", "PMID": 445904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7321", "title": "Closed insertion technique for the prebent Sampson femoral rod.", "content": "This is a descriptive summarization of the technique employed in doing closed intermedullary nailings of fractured femurs using a cannulated prebent nail system. With slight modifications the same approach and techniques can be used for a noncannulated solid nail system. The fine points of this technique which will help in preventing difficulties during the procedure are accurate preoperative positioning of the patient before draping; adequate preoperative traction to assure that slight over pull of the fracture fragments has been achieved; the use of the piriformis recess as the prime site for entry into the medullary canal. With proper attention to detail the technique can be employed successfully with a minimum of hazard.", "contents": "Closed insertion technique for the prebent Sampson femoral rod. This is a descriptive summarization of the technique employed in doing closed intermedullary nailings of fractured femurs using a cannulated prebent nail system. With slight modifications the same approach and techniques can be used for a noncannulated solid nail system. The fine points of this technique which will help in preventing difficulties during the procedure are accurate preoperative positioning of the patient before draping; adequate preoperative traction to assure that slight over pull of the fracture fragments has been achieved; the use of the piriformis recess as the prime site for entry into the medullary canal. With proper attention to detail the technique can be employed successfully with a minimum of hazard.", "PMID": 445905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7322", "title": "Clostridial myonecrosis in a patient undergoing oxacillin therapy for exacerbation of chronic foot ulcers and osteomyelitis. A case report.", "content": "Gas gangrene developed from a chronic foot ulcer in the absence of periferal vascular disease or diabetes mellitus in a hospitalized patient undergoing parenteral antibiotic therapy. Within a 6 hour period the patient developed profound toxemia necessitating emergency and life saving leg amputation. Classically clostridial myonecrosis is diagnosed by the clinical course and the gram stain. In this case, 2 preoperative gram stains failed to show gram-positive rods. At the time of surgery, frank fasical and muscle necrosis in the peroneal compartment dictated extending the below knee amputation to above the knee. In retrospect demonstration of clostridial species and myonecrosis in the pathological specimen confirmed the clinical impression. The identified organism, Clostridium sporogenes has rarely been implicated as a cause of gas gangrene.", "contents": "Clostridial myonecrosis in a patient undergoing oxacillin therapy for exacerbation of chronic foot ulcers and osteomyelitis. A case report. Gas gangrene developed from a chronic foot ulcer in the absence of periferal vascular disease or diabetes mellitus in a hospitalized patient undergoing parenteral antibiotic therapy. Within a 6 hour period the patient developed profound toxemia necessitating emergency and life saving leg amputation. Classically clostridial myonecrosis is diagnosed by the clinical course and the gram stain. In this case, 2 preoperative gram stains failed to show gram-positive rods. At the time of surgery, frank fasical and muscle necrosis in the peroneal compartment dictated extending the below knee amputation to above the knee. In retrospect demonstration of clostridial species and myonecrosis in the pathological specimen confirmed the clinical impression. The identified organism, Clostridium sporogenes has rarely been implicated as a cause of gas gangrene.", "PMID": 445907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7323", "title": "Negative experiences with pins-in-plaster for femoral fractures.", "content": "Six healthy young men sustaining femoral shaft fractures in traffic accidents were treated in pins-in-plaster. Complications included pintract infection (3/6), shortening, angulation (1), malrotation (2). Recasting and rehospitalization was frequent. These adverse experiences with this method of treatment of femoral shaft fractures should discourage its further use.", "contents": "Negative experiences with pins-in-plaster for femoral fractures. Six healthy young men sustaining femoral shaft fractures in traffic accidents were treated in pins-in-plaster. Complications included pintract infection (3/6), shortening, angulation (1), malrotation (2). Recasting and rehospitalization was frequent. These adverse experiences with this method of treatment of femoral shaft fractures should discourage its further use.", "PMID": 445906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7324", "title": "Experimental study of measurement of regional bone blood flow in the adult mongrel dog using radioactive microspheres.", "content": "To date, no one has conclusively accurately measured the regional bone blood flow mainly due to the lack of a proper investigative method. In this study, regional blood flow in the femur and tibia in adult mongrel dogs were studied using 85Sr-and 141Ce-labeled microspheres with a diameter of 15 +/- 5 microns. The blood flow rates were calculated by relating the radioactivity from tissue samples that from sample blood with a known flow. The highest rate of blood flow, 48.7 ml/min/100 g, was found in the femoral marrow and the lowest, 3.0 ml/min/100 g, in the diaphyseal cortex of the tibia. Flow rates in the metaphyseal regions, about 15 or 20 ml/min/100 g, were one and a half or 2 times greater than those in the epiphyseal regions. These values were mostly within the range of values reported by other investigators. Radioactive microspheres can be applied not only to physiological conditions but also to various pathological conditions if their size and the dose, the site and method of injection and tissue sampling are investigated further.", "contents": "Experimental study of measurement of regional bone blood flow in the adult mongrel dog using radioactive microspheres. To date, no one has conclusively accurately measured the regional bone blood flow mainly due to the lack of a proper investigative method. In this study, regional blood flow in the femur and tibia in adult mongrel dogs were studied using 85Sr-and 141Ce-labeled microspheres with a diameter of 15 +/- 5 microns. The blood flow rates were calculated by relating the radioactivity from tissue samples that from sample blood with a known flow. The highest rate of blood flow, 48.7 ml/min/100 g, was found in the femoral marrow and the lowest, 3.0 ml/min/100 g, in the diaphyseal cortex of the tibia. Flow rates in the metaphyseal regions, about 15 or 20 ml/min/100 g, were one and a half or 2 times greater than those in the epiphyseal regions. These values were mostly within the range of values reported by other investigators. Radioactive microspheres can be applied not only to physiological conditions but also to various pathological conditions if their size and the dose, the site and method of injection and tissue sampling are investigated further.", "PMID": 445909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7325", "title": "Effects of different commercial diets on several orthopedic experiments.", "content": "In experiments involving disuse osteoporosis induced by plaster cast immobilization, 2 commonly used commercial feeds (Wayne Lab Blox and Purina Laboratory Chow) gave different results. Preliminary evidence suggests that this dichotomy of results is due to an interaction between metabolic changes caused by physiologic stress and different levels of manganese in the 2 commercial diets. By feeding the 2 diets to groups of rats under various conditions, and examining the strength, cortical area, and length of their femurs, and by immobilization of a fracture in a cast, and associated physiologic stresses, dietary differences are manifested in the growth and developmental changes in the femur. Under normal, stress-free conditions, however, no such differences occur. Investigators should be wary of such dietary variables when comparing various experimental results. The implications of such effects insofar as human medicine is concerned should be further investigated.", "contents": "Effects of different commercial diets on several orthopedic experiments. In experiments involving disuse osteoporosis induced by plaster cast immobilization, 2 commonly used commercial feeds (Wayne Lab Blox and Purina Laboratory Chow) gave different results. Preliminary evidence suggests that this dichotomy of results is due to an interaction between metabolic changes caused by physiologic stress and different levels of manganese in the 2 commercial diets. By feeding the 2 diets to groups of rats under various conditions, and examining the strength, cortical area, and length of their femurs, and by immobilization of a fracture in a cast, and associated physiologic stresses, dietary differences are manifested in the growth and developmental changes in the femur. Under normal, stress-free conditions, however, no such differences occur. Investigators should be wary of such dietary variables when comparing various experimental results. The implications of such effects insofar as human medicine is concerned should be further investigated.", "PMID": 445910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7326", "title": "Effects of synovial fluid on fibroblasts in tissue culture.", "content": "The ability of the torn anterior cruciate ligament of the knee to heal is unpredictable, despite early surgical repair. A popular explanation has been that synovial fluid inhibits ligament healing. Other variables of ligament healing could reside with the fibroblasts, themselves, from different ligaments. With the use of tissue culture techniques, populations of fibroblasts were cultured from human anterior cruciate ligaments, deep and superficial medial collateral ligaments of the knee. Growth of fibroblasts from the anterior cruciate ligament was always diminished when exposed to synovial fluid and, on the average, plating efficiency was reduced by 46% when the culture medium contained synovial fluid. Growth rates demonstrated that fibroblasts from the superficial medial collateral ligament grew an average of 35% more than the others. Information gained from this study provides some data to explain the clinical frustration of the torn anterior cruciate ligament. The combination of synovial fluid inhibition of cell proliferation and the variable growth rates of fibroblasts, may explain the unsatisfactory healing of cruciate ligaments.", "contents": "Effects of synovial fluid on fibroblasts in tissue culture. The ability of the torn anterior cruciate ligament of the knee to heal is unpredictable, despite early surgical repair. A popular explanation has been that synovial fluid inhibits ligament healing. Other variables of ligament healing could reside with the fibroblasts, themselves, from different ligaments. With the use of tissue culture techniques, populations of fibroblasts were cultured from human anterior cruciate ligaments, deep and superficial medial collateral ligaments of the knee. Growth of fibroblasts from the anterior cruciate ligament was always diminished when exposed to synovial fluid and, on the average, plating efficiency was reduced by 46% when the culture medium contained synovial fluid. Growth rates demonstrated that fibroblasts from the superficial medial collateral ligament grew an average of 35% more than the others. Information gained from this study provides some data to explain the clinical frustration of the torn anterior cruciate ligament. The combination of synovial fluid inhibition of cell proliferation and the variable growth rates of fibroblasts, may explain the unsatisfactory healing of cruciate ligaments.", "PMID": 445911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7327", "title": "Comminuted trochanteric femoral fractures in geriatric patients: the results of 231 cases treated with internal fixation and acrylic cement.", "content": "Instability, osteoporosis and the requirement of early mobilization are the main problems in comminuted trochanteric fractures in elderly patients. Correct reduction and the use of acrylic cement as an adjunct to internal fixation provide the stability for immediate weightbearing and subsequent bone union. In 213 patients there was no evidence of femoral head necrosis or non-union.", "contents": "Comminuted trochanteric femoral fractures in geriatric patients: the results of 231 cases treated with internal fixation and acrylic cement. Instability, osteoporosis and the requirement of early mobilization are the main problems in comminuted trochanteric fractures in elderly patients. Correct reduction and the use of acrylic cement as an adjunct to internal fixation provide the stability for immediate weightbearing and subsequent bone union. In 213 patients there was no evidence of femoral head necrosis or non-union.", "PMID": 445917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7328", "title": "Closed intramedullary nailing of the femur. K\u00fcntscher technique with reaming.", "content": "Closed intramedullary reaming and nailing with a prebent cloverleaf nail provides a biomechanically ideal method of internal fixation for femoral fractures. With a properly trained surgical team and careful technical control, all the theoretical advantages of this technique can be realized. These include a very high union rate, minimal risk of infection, early mobilization, and shortened hospitalization. Reaming and insertion of the nail is performed through a starting point at the junction of the base of the femoral neck and trochanter. When reaming is done, the nail can be sufficiently large to withstand the forces of early ambulation, thereby allowing an early return to normal function for most patients. In comminuted fractures an intramedullary nail can be used as an internal splint. In conjunction with traction and/or guarded weight-bearing and/or cast-brace, this procedure can assure earlier and more anatomic union and earlier return to function. In 300 fresh femoral fractures treated with closed intramedullary nailing, most patients had early and nearly anatomic union with excellent knee function and maintenance of muscle strength. Significant complications included one non-union, which required renailing, and 19 malunions, most of which were relatively minor. Because the procedure is technically demanding and requires extensive special equipment, it is best suited for use in trauma centers.", "contents": "Closed intramedullary nailing of the femur. K\u00fcntscher technique with reaming. Closed intramedullary reaming and nailing with a prebent cloverleaf nail provides a biomechanically ideal method of internal fixation for femoral fractures. With a properly trained surgical team and careful technical control, all the theoretical advantages of this technique can be realized. These include a very high union rate, minimal risk of infection, early mobilization, and shortened hospitalization. Reaming and insertion of the nail is performed through a starting point at the junction of the base of the femoral neck and trochanter. When reaming is done, the nail can be sufficiently large to withstand the forces of early ambulation, thereby allowing an early return to normal function for most patients. In comminuted fractures an intramedullary nail can be used as an internal splint. In conjunction with traction and/or guarded weight-bearing and/or cast-brace, this procedure can assure earlier and more anatomic union and earlier return to function. In 300 fresh femoral fractures treated with closed intramedullary nailing, most patients had early and nearly anatomic union with excellent knee function and maintenance of muscle strength. Significant complications included one non-union, which required renailing, and 19 malunions, most of which were relatively minor. Because the procedure is technically demanding and requires extensive special equipment, it is best suited for use in trauma centers.", "PMID": 445919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7329", "title": "Medullary nailing according to Swiss study group principles.", "content": "Internal fixation of long tubular bone fractures by intramedullary nailing has become established worldwide as an efficient and successful procedure, besides the methods of interfragmentary compression, buttress and adaptation, intramedullary splinting and stabilization constitute the basic principles of osteosynthesis. Improvements in knowledge of equipment, indications, technique, aftercare and possible complications have increased the success of intramedullary nailing. The results of 1,905 intramedullary nailings of femur and tibia demonstrate that with other methods of osteosynthesis poor results usually are attributable to an inappropriate indication and/or a faulty surgical technique. Occasionally a failure may stem from the surgeon's technical incompetence or inexperience.", "contents": "Medullary nailing according to Swiss study group principles. Internal fixation of long tubular bone fractures by intramedullary nailing has become established worldwide as an efficient and successful procedure, besides the methods of interfragmentary compression, buttress and adaptation, intramedullary splinting and stabilization constitute the basic principles of osteosynthesis. Improvements in knowledge of equipment, indications, technique, aftercare and possible complications have increased the success of intramedullary nailing. The results of 1,905 intramedullary nailings of femur and tibia demonstrate that with other methods of osteosynthesis poor results usually are attributable to an inappropriate indication and/or a faulty surgical technique. Occasionally a failure may stem from the surgeon's technical incompetence or inexperience.", "PMID": 445918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7330", "title": "Results after internal fixation of comminuted fractures of the femoral shaft with DC plates.", "content": "A series of 131 comminuted fractures of the femoral shaft in 123 patients were externally fixed by the ASIF plating method. Of the 126 fractures in 118 patients, that could be reviewed one to 3 years postoperatively, 115 of 92% presented a good functional result. The most common complication was a fatigue fracture of the plates which, however, only occurred after biomechanically faulty application, without medial buttress of the bone, and in the absence of a cancellous autograft. The application of a bone graft therefore appears mandatory in all fractures of the femoral shaft that are fixed by a plate.", "contents": "Results after internal fixation of comminuted fractures of the femoral shaft with DC plates. A series of 131 comminuted fractures of the femoral shaft in 123 patients were externally fixed by the ASIF plating method. Of the 126 fractures in 118 patients, that could be reviewed one to 3 years postoperatively, 115 of 92% presented a good functional result. The most common complication was a fatigue fracture of the plates which, however, only occurred after biomechanically faulty application, without medial buttress of the bone, and in the absence of a cancellous autograft. The application of a bone graft therefore appears mandatory in all fractures of the femoral shaft that are fixed by a plate.", "PMID": 445920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7331", "title": "Neonatal subcapsular hematoma of the liver presenting as an abdominal mass. Report of two cases.", "content": "Two infants with hepatic subcapsular hemmorrhage presenting as abdominal masses at age 17 days and 49 days are reported. The first had a slowly progressive course and the second had initial internal bleeding. Aortography assisted in the management of the second case.", "contents": "Neonatal subcapsular hematoma of the liver presenting as an abdominal mass. Report of two cases. Two infants with hepatic subcapsular hemmorrhage presenting as abdominal masses at age 17 days and 49 days are reported. The first had a slowly progressive course and the second had initial internal bleeding. Aortography assisted in the management of the second case.", "PMID": 445934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7332", "title": "Review of intensive care unit admissions for asthma.", "content": "A review of ICU admissions for asthma to the Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles was conducted for the period January 1969 through July 1977. The admission rate remained relatively constant during this period. Patients requiring ICU admission tended to be young, intractable severe asthmatics whose asthma started at a very young age. There were three patients who had no previous history of asthma. The incidence of pneumonitis/atelectasis was somewhat greater than has been reported for patients hospitalized for status asthmaticus. A significant number of children received neither intravenous corticosteriods, sympathomimetics nor oxygen therapy while hospitalized prior to transfer to the ICU. Those children receiving mechanical ventilation or intravenous isoproterenol tended to be somewhat younger and had a higher incidence of pneumonitis/atelectasis and more abnormal blood gas determinations than their counterparts who were not similarly treated. Mechanical ventilation was administered to 15 patients and 19 patients received intravenous isoproterenol. Intravenous isoproterenol resulted in prompt improvement in most patients; except for one patient who experienced cardiac arrhythmia (reversed when the dosage was decreased), this medication was well-tolerated.", "contents": "Review of intensive care unit admissions for asthma. A review of ICU admissions for asthma to the Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles was conducted for the period January 1969 through July 1977. The admission rate remained relatively constant during this period. Patients requiring ICU admission tended to be young, intractable severe asthmatics whose asthma started at a very young age. There were three patients who had no previous history of asthma. The incidence of pneumonitis/atelectasis was somewhat greater than has been reported for patients hospitalized for status asthmaticus. A significant number of children received neither intravenous corticosteriods, sympathomimetics nor oxygen therapy while hospitalized prior to transfer to the ICU. Those children receiving mechanical ventilation or intravenous isoproterenol tended to be somewhat younger and had a higher incidence of pneumonitis/atelectasis and more abnormal blood gas determinations than their counterparts who were not similarly treated. Mechanical ventilation was administered to 15 patients and 19 patients received intravenous isoproterenol. Intravenous isoproterenol resulted in prompt improvement in most patients; except for one patient who experienced cardiac arrhythmia (reversed when the dosage was decreased), this medication was well-tolerated.", "PMID": 445939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7333", "title": "Digoxin in the elderly: pharmacokinetic consequences of old age.", "content": "A study of single-dose digoxin kinetics was performed in 6 young and 7 elderly patients. The rate of absorption, determined by the time to peak concentration after an oral dose, was more rapid in the younger group. The extent of absorption, as measured by comparison of the area under the plasma concentration/time curve after oral and intravenous administration, was similar in both groups. Mean plasma half-life was longer and individual values were more variable in the elderly patients. The absolute apparent volume of distribution was reduced in the older patients and correlated inversely with age. When corrected for weight, however, the difference in the apparent volume of distribution did not approach significance. Both absolute and weight-corrected values for plasma clearance of digoxin were reduced in the elderly subjects.", "contents": "Digoxin in the elderly: pharmacokinetic consequences of old age. A study of single-dose digoxin kinetics was performed in 6 young and 7 elderly patients. The rate of absorption, determined by the time to peak concentration after an oral dose, was more rapid in the younger group. The extent of absorption, as measured by comparison of the area under the plasma concentration/time curve after oral and intravenous administration, was similar in both groups. Mean plasma half-life was longer and individual values were more variable in the elderly patients. The absolute apparent volume of distribution was reduced in the older patients and correlated inversely with age. When corrected for weight, however, the difference in the apparent volume of distribution did not approach significance. Both absolute and weight-corrected values for plasma clearance of digoxin were reduced in the elderly subjects.", "PMID": 445943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7334", "title": "Creatinine VIII: saliva levels of endogenous \"true\" creatinine in normal subjects.", "content": "Concentrations of endogenous \"true\" creatinine in saliva and serum were measured in 6 normal subjects using a specific and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method. There were marked intra- and intersubject variations in saliva levels during an 11-wk study. There were also large variations in the ratios of the saliva/serum creatinine level during the one-day study for all the subjects, the average highest intrasubject variation being 481% and the range being 128% to 816%. The average ratio of saliva/serum level was 0.0999 +/- 0.097 (CV = 97%); the highest saliva level was 1.5 mg%. Lower salivary levels were probably due to the extremely low lipid solubility of creatinine resulting in a relatively slower diffusion rate than of the transport of water into the saliva. Salivary monitoring of creatinine is concluded to be of little use in indicating its concentration in plasma or serum because, unlike many other substances it does not follow the pH-partition principle for saliva/plasma distribution.", "contents": "Creatinine VIII: saliva levels of endogenous \"true\" creatinine in normal subjects. Concentrations of endogenous \"true\" creatinine in saliva and serum were measured in 6 normal subjects using a specific and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method. There were marked intra- and intersubject variations in saliva levels during an 11-wk study. There were also large variations in the ratios of the saliva/serum creatinine level during the one-day study for all the subjects, the average highest intrasubject variation being 481% and the range being 128% to 816%. The average ratio of saliva/serum level was 0.0999 +/- 0.097 (CV = 97%); the highest saliva level was 1.5 mg%. Lower salivary levels were probably due to the extremely low lipid solubility of creatinine resulting in a relatively slower diffusion rate than of the transport of water into the saliva. Salivary monitoring of creatinine is concluded to be of little use in indicating its concentration in plasma or serum because, unlike many other substances it does not follow the pH-partition principle for saliva/plasma distribution.", "PMID": 445944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7335", "title": "Influence of congestive heart failure on prazosin kinetics.", "content": "The kinetics of oral prazosin was studied in 10 healthy normal subjects (NS) and in 9 patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). NS received a single 5-mg dose, and blood concentrations of prazosin (CB) were measured, using a specific HPLC assay, during an 8-hr period. CHF patients received a 2-mg dose after which CB was measured for 10 hr. These patients then received 2 to 5 mg prazosin every 8 hr for 48 hr. After the last dose of prazosin, CB was measured for 24 hr. After the initial dose, time to peak CB did not differ significantly between that of the NS (123 +/- 19 SEM min) and of patients with CHF (132 +/- 31.3 min). AUC/mg prazosin was greater (p less than 0.001) in patients with CHF (3,385 +/- 380 Ng x min/ml) than in NS (1,603 +/- 208 ng x min/ml). Elimination of prazosin from blood was slower in CHF patients (t1/2 = 374 +/- 33.4 min) than in NS (t1/2 = 144.5 +/- 4.3 min) (p less than 0.001). These data suggest that in patients with CHF the elimination of prazosin is substantially slower than in NS and therefore higher steady-state prazosin concentrations can be expected in CHF patients than in NS.", "contents": "Influence of congestive heart failure on prazosin kinetics. The kinetics of oral prazosin was studied in 10 healthy normal subjects (NS) and in 9 patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). NS received a single 5-mg dose, and blood concentrations of prazosin (CB) were measured, using a specific HPLC assay, during an 8-hr period. CHF patients received a 2-mg dose after which CB was measured for 10 hr. These patients then received 2 to 5 mg prazosin every 8 hr for 48 hr. After the last dose of prazosin, CB was measured for 24 hr. After the initial dose, time to peak CB did not differ significantly between that of the NS (123 +/- 19 SEM min) and of patients with CHF (132 +/- 31.3 min). AUC/mg prazosin was greater (p less than 0.001) in patients with CHF (3,385 +/- 380 Ng x min/ml) than in NS (1,603 +/- 208 ng x min/ml). Elimination of prazosin from blood was slower in CHF patients (t1/2 = 374 +/- 33.4 min) than in NS (t1/2 = 144.5 +/- 4.3 min) (p less than 0.001). These data suggest that in patients with CHF the elimination of prazosin is substantially slower than in NS and therefore higher steady-state prazosin concentrations can be expected in CHF patients than in NS.", "PMID": 445945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7336", "title": "Diazoxide infusion in severe hypertension and hypertensive crisis.", "content": "Prompted by reports of hypotension with myocardial ischemia after bolus injection, we restudied the efficacy of diazoxide infusion (5 mg/kg, rate, 15 mg/min) in 35 hypertensive patients. In 20 patients with chronic hypertension, mean arterial pressure of 138 mm Hg was 110 (after 30 min) and 121 (after 8 hr). In 15 patients with hypertensive crisis, there was a fall from 159 to 126 (in 30 min) and 133 mm Hg (after 8 hr), similar to findings in 12 patients with hypertensive crisis treated with a 300-mg bolus injection (159, 130, 140 mm Hg). In the latter, the maximal systolic blood pressure decrease was greater (56 mm Hg, reached in 4 min) than in the 15 patients with hypertensive crisis treated by slow infusion (38 mm Hg in 28 min). Thus, infusion of diazoxide causes a gradual decline of blood pressure and is, in contrast to current opinion, also an effective treatment in hypertensive crisis.", "contents": "Diazoxide infusion in severe hypertension and hypertensive crisis. Prompted by reports of hypotension with myocardial ischemia after bolus injection, we restudied the efficacy of diazoxide infusion (5 mg/kg, rate, 15 mg/min) in 35 hypertensive patients. In 20 patients with chronic hypertension, mean arterial pressure of 138 mm Hg was 110 (after 30 min) and 121 (after 8 hr). In 15 patients with hypertensive crisis, there was a fall from 159 to 126 (in 30 min) and 133 mm Hg (after 8 hr), similar to findings in 12 patients with hypertensive crisis treated with a 300-mg bolus injection (159, 130, 140 mm Hg). In the latter, the maximal systolic blood pressure decrease was greater (56 mm Hg, reached in 4 min) than in the 15 patients with hypertensive crisis treated by slow infusion (38 mm Hg in 28 min). Thus, infusion of diazoxide causes a gradual decline of blood pressure and is, in contrast to current opinion, also an effective treatment in hypertensive crisis.", "PMID": 445946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7337", "title": "Disposition of chlordiazepoxide: sex differences and effects of oral contraceptives.", "content": "There is considerable interspecies and interdrug variability in the effect of sex differences and oral contraceptive (OC) steroids on hepatic drug elimination. Their influence on the disposition of chlordiazepoxide has been studied in 11 healthy young men (29 +/- 5 yr), 11 healthy young women (28 +/- 5 yr), and 7 healthy women receiving OC steroids (27 +/- 2 yr) for more than 6 months. The elimination half-life (t1/2(beta)) was longer (from 14.8 +/- 5.9 hr to 8.9 +/- 2.5 hr) and protein binding less (95.5 +/- 1.4% and 97.0 +/- 1.2%) in women than in men. Weight-normalized plasma clearances of total drug did not differ, but the clearance of unbound drug was significantly less in women (8.7 +/- 5.0 ml/min/kg) than in men (15.6 +/- 5.3 ml/min/kg). Women on OC steroids had a lower plasma binding (from 93.6 +/- 1.5% to 95.5 +/- 1.4%) and a higher volume of distribution (from 0.62 +-/ 0.23 l/kg to 0.40 +/- 0.14 l/kg) than women not on OC steroids. The elimination t1/2 was longer (from 24.3 +/- 12 hr to 14.8 +/- 5.9 hr) and the clearance of unbound drug lower (from 5.7 +/- 3.0 ml/min/kg to 8.7 +/- 5.0 ml/min/kg) in women on OC steroids than in those not using them, but these differences were not statistically significant.", "contents": "Disposition of chlordiazepoxide: sex differences and effects of oral contraceptives. There is considerable interspecies and interdrug variability in the effect of sex differences and oral contraceptive (OC) steroids on hepatic drug elimination. Their influence on the disposition of chlordiazepoxide has been studied in 11 healthy young men (29 +/- 5 yr), 11 healthy young women (28 +/- 5 yr), and 7 healthy women receiving OC steroids (27 +/- 2 yr) for more than 6 months. The elimination half-life (t1/2(beta)) was longer (from 14.8 +/- 5.9 hr to 8.9 +/- 2.5 hr) and protein binding less (95.5 +/- 1.4% and 97.0 +/- 1.2%) in women than in men. Weight-normalized plasma clearances of total drug did not differ, but the clearance of unbound drug was significantly less in women (8.7 +/- 5.0 ml/min/kg) than in men (15.6 +/- 5.3 ml/min/kg). Women on OC steroids had a lower plasma binding (from 93.6 +/- 1.5% to 95.5 +/- 1.4%) and a higher volume of distribution (from 0.62 +-/ 0.23 l/kg to 0.40 +/- 0.14 l/kg) than women not on OC steroids. The elimination t1/2 was longer (from 24.3 +/- 12 hr to 14.8 +/- 5.9 hr) and the clearance of unbound drug lower (from 5.7 +/- 3.0 ml/min/kg to 8.7 +/- 5.0 ml/min/kg) in women on OC steroids than in those not using them, but these differences were not statistically significant.", "PMID": 445949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7338", "title": "Diazepam kinetics in acute alcohol withdrawal.", "content": "We performed a within-subject comparison of the kinetics of diazepam given to 7 alcoholic subjects during acute alcohol withdrawal and again after detoxification. The initial rapid exponential decline of plasma diazepam concentrations (t1/2 alpha) was more rapid during (0.21 +/- 0.03 hr) than after withdrawal (0.44 +/- 0.14 hr, p less than 0.05). Terminal t1/2, clearance, and volumes of distribution changed in individual patients, but mean values did not change. Protein binding was less in patients (93.4 +/- 2.4%) than in healthy controls (97.0 +/- 1.0, p less than 0.05). The effects of alcohol withdrawal on diazepam disposition do not explain the high doses of diazepam commonly required to treat the withdrawal.", "contents": "Diazepam kinetics in acute alcohol withdrawal. We performed a within-subject comparison of the kinetics of diazepam given to 7 alcoholic subjects during acute alcohol withdrawal and again after detoxification. The initial rapid exponential decline of plasma diazepam concentrations (t1/2 alpha) was more rapid during (0.21 +/- 0.03 hr) than after withdrawal (0.44 +/- 0.14 hr, p less than 0.05). Terminal t1/2, clearance, and volumes of distribution changed in individual patients, but mean values did not change. Protein binding was less in patients (93.4 +/- 2.4%) than in healthy controls (97.0 +/- 1.0, p less than 0.05). The effects of alcohol withdrawal on diazepam disposition do not explain the high doses of diazepam commonly required to treat the withdrawal.", "PMID": 445950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7339", "title": "Studies with a PNMT inhibitor.", "content": "DCTQ (SK&F 64139) is a potent inhibitor of both adrenal and central nervous system (CNS) phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT). In animal studies, a plasma level of 0.35 microgram/ml was associated with 50% inhibition of both adrenal and central PNMT. We performed single-dose phase I studies with DCTQ in man. Plasma drug levels up to 6.26 microgram/ml were readily obtained. There were few subjective and no objective clinical changes. DCTQ did not alter blood pressure or cause CNS symptoms in man. Furthermore, resting plasma and urinary catecholamines did not change after DCTQ. The study suggests that acute inhibition of PNMT under resting conditions is without significant clinical effect.", "contents": "Studies with a PNMT inhibitor. DCTQ (SK&F 64139) is a potent inhibitor of both adrenal and central nervous system (CNS) phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT). In animal studies, a plasma level of 0.35 microgram/ml was associated with 50% inhibition of both adrenal and central PNMT. We performed single-dose phase I studies with DCTQ in man. Plasma drug levels up to 6.26 microgram/ml were readily obtained. There were few subjective and no objective clinical changes. DCTQ did not alter blood pressure or cause CNS symptoms in man. Furthermore, resting plasma and urinary catecholamines did not change after DCTQ. The study suggests that acute inhibition of PNMT under resting conditions is without significant clinical effect.", "PMID": 445951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7340", "title": "Renal excretion of cephapirin and cephaloridine: evidence for saturable tubular reabsorption.", "content": "Drug concentrations in plasma and urine were determined in 5 healthy subjects after intravenous infusion of 1 gm cephapirin and cephaloridine. Sampling of blood and urine was frequent and prolonged. Specimens were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Renal clearance of cephapirin decreased to less than 5% of control in all subjects when drug concentrations in plasma and urine declined. Cephaloridine clearance decreased to a lesser extent. Our findings suggest that, besides tubular secretion and glomerular filtration, a saturable and probably active tubular reabsorption is also involved in the renal handling of these two cephalosporins. The saturable reabsorption process was characterized by its Michaelis-Menten constant Km and its maximum transport capacity Tm.", "contents": "Renal excretion of cephapirin and cephaloridine: evidence for saturable tubular reabsorption. Drug concentrations in plasma and urine were determined in 5 healthy subjects after intravenous infusion of 1 gm cephapirin and cephaloridine. Sampling of blood and urine was frequent and prolonged. Specimens were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Renal clearance of cephapirin decreased to less than 5% of control in all subjects when drug concentrations in plasma and urine declined. Cephaloridine clearance decreased to a lesser extent. Our findings suggest that, besides tubular secretion and glomerular filtration, a saturable and probably active tubular reabsorption is also involved in the renal handling of these two cephalosporins. The saturable reabsorption process was characterized by its Michaelis-Menten constant Km and its maximum transport capacity Tm.", "PMID": 445952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7341", "title": "Disopyramide kinetics in patients with acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "The kinetic behavior of disopyramide was studied in 20 patients with suspected myocardial infarction: in 13 of these, the diagnosis was subsequently confirmed. All received a 400-mg oral loading dose of disopyramide base followed by an oral maintenance regimen of either 100 or 200 mg 4 times daily. The elimination half-life (t1/2beta) was longer (p less than 0.05) in patients with confirmed infarction than in patients with unconfirmed infarction [38.0 +/- 3.7 hr (mean +/- SEM) compared to 24.3 +/- 0.8 hr, and 21.2 +/- 2.1 hr compared to 7.2 +/- 2.4 hr for the 100- and 200-mg maintenance dose regimens, respectively]. The t1/2beta was dose dependent for infarct and noninfarct patients. Two of the patients with confirmed infarction failed to reach trough plasma levels equal to or exceeding the lower end of the manufacturer's recommended therapeutic range (3.3 mug/ml) during the study. For the remaining 11 patients the time taken to achieve trough plasma levels of 3.3 mug/ml varied from 18 to 170 hr; hence plasma disopyramide concentration in these patients was suboptimal at a time when the risk of arrhythmias is high. Modification of existing oral loading dose regimens is therefore required for optimization of oral disopyramide therapy.", "contents": "Disopyramide kinetics in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The kinetic behavior of disopyramide was studied in 20 patients with suspected myocardial infarction: in 13 of these, the diagnosis was subsequently confirmed. All received a 400-mg oral loading dose of disopyramide base followed by an oral maintenance regimen of either 100 or 200 mg 4 times daily. The elimination half-life (t1/2beta) was longer (p less than 0.05) in patients with confirmed infarction than in patients with unconfirmed infarction [38.0 +/- 3.7 hr (mean +/- SEM) compared to 24.3 +/- 0.8 hr, and 21.2 +/- 2.1 hr compared to 7.2 +/- 2.4 hr for the 100- and 200-mg maintenance dose regimens, respectively]. The t1/2beta was dose dependent for infarct and noninfarct patients. Two of the patients with confirmed infarction failed to reach trough plasma levels equal to or exceeding the lower end of the manufacturer's recommended therapeutic range (3.3 mug/ml) during the study. For the remaining 11 patients the time taken to achieve trough plasma levels of 3.3 mug/ml varied from 18 to 170 hr; hence plasma disopyramide concentration in these patients was suboptimal at a time when the risk of arrhythmias is high. Modification of existing oral loading dose regimens is therefore required for optimization of oral disopyramide therapy.", "PMID": 445953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7342", "title": "Plasma chlorpromazine concentrations in children with behavioral disorders and mental illness.", "content": "Plasma chlorpromazine (CPZ) levels were studied in children 8 to 15 yr of age who were receiving CPZ for mental disorders. The results showed that children need larger doses of CPZ than adults to attain comparable plasma concentrations. The apparent therapeutic plasma concentration in children (40 to 80 ng/ml) is lower than that reported for adults (50 to 300 ng/ml). In the children studied, the plasma concentrations declined despite maintained dosage, possibly because of autoinduction of CPZ metabolism. Doses of 6 to all mg/kg body weight, and even as much as 850 mg/day, were tolerated without significant side effects when administered in divided doses 3 or 4 times a day, while doses of less than 6 mg/kg/day frequently failed to produce the desired plasma CPZ levels.", "contents": "Plasma chlorpromazine concentrations in children with behavioral disorders and mental illness. Plasma chlorpromazine (CPZ) levels were studied in children 8 to 15 yr of age who were receiving CPZ for mental disorders. The results showed that children need larger doses of CPZ than adults to attain comparable plasma concentrations. The apparent therapeutic plasma concentration in children (40 to 80 ng/ml) is lower than that reported for adults (50 to 300 ng/ml). In the children studied, the plasma concentrations declined despite maintained dosage, possibly because of autoinduction of CPZ metabolism. Doses of 6 to all mg/kg body weight, and even as much as 850 mg/day, were tolerated without significant side effects when administered in divided doses 3 or 4 times a day, while doses of less than 6 mg/kg/day frequently failed to produce the desired plasma CPZ levels.", "PMID": 445954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7343", "title": "Absorption and excretion of tolmetin in arthritic patients.", "content": "The absorption, kinetics, biotransformation, and excretion of tolmetin and its metabolites were studied in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to evaluate the effects of the disease on tolmetin disposition. Five RA patients were stabilized on tolmetin sodium (300 mg, 4 times daily for 14 days) before receiving a single oral solution dose of tolmetin-14C sodium (300 mg as the acid) on day 15. Tolmetin was rapidly and completely absorbed (peak time, 20 to 60 min) and eliminated rapidly from plasma with a biphasic decay curve (t1/2beta congruent to 2.1 hr). MCPA, the oxidative metabolite, appeared more slowly (peak time, 40 to 90 min) but was eliminated rapidly in a biphasic manner (t1/2beta congruent to 1.7 hr). The terminal elimination phases for both tolmetin and MCPA demonstrated a curvature which suggested possible nonlinearity in the kinetic disposition of the drug. There were no apparent effects of the disease on the kinetics of tolmetin or MCPA. Tolmetin, MCPA, and tolmetin glucuronide were recovered quantitatively in urine (0 to 72 hr) with most of the exretion occurring in the 0- to 24-hr period. A significant increase, relative to data on normal subjects, in the renal clearance of both tolmetin and MCPA was noted. Concomitant increase in the apparent volume of distribution secondary to reported decreases in the plasma protein binding of tolmetin appeared to be the reason for increased renal clearance of tolmetin.", "contents": "Absorption and excretion of tolmetin in arthritic patients. The absorption, kinetics, biotransformation, and excretion of tolmetin and its metabolites were studied in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to evaluate the effects of the disease on tolmetin disposition. Five RA patients were stabilized on tolmetin sodium (300 mg, 4 times daily for 14 days) before receiving a single oral solution dose of tolmetin-14C sodium (300 mg as the acid) on day 15. Tolmetin was rapidly and completely absorbed (peak time, 20 to 60 min) and eliminated rapidly from plasma with a biphasic decay curve (t1/2beta congruent to 2.1 hr). MCPA, the oxidative metabolite, appeared more slowly (peak time, 40 to 90 min) but was eliminated rapidly in a biphasic manner (t1/2beta congruent to 1.7 hr). The terminal elimination phases for both tolmetin and MCPA demonstrated a curvature which suggested possible nonlinearity in the kinetic disposition of the drug. There were no apparent effects of the disease on the kinetics of tolmetin or MCPA. Tolmetin, MCPA, and tolmetin glucuronide were recovered quantitatively in urine (0 to 72 hr) with most of the exretion occurring in the 0- to 24-hr period. A significant increase, relative to data on normal subjects, in the renal clearance of both tolmetin and MCPA was noted. Concomitant increase in the apparent volume of distribution secondary to reported decreases in the plasma protein binding of tolmetin appeared to be the reason for increased renal clearance of tolmetin.", "PMID": 445955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7344", "title": "Effect of aging and cigarette smoking on antipyrine and indocyanine green elimination.", "content": "The plasma clearances of antipyrine (AP) and indocyanine green (ICG) have been measured after intravenous administration in each of 20 normal male subjects aged 22 to 72 yr. An additional 4 subjects aged 65 to 73 yr received only ICG. AP clearance fell with age in the group as a whole (r = 0.56; p less than 0.01), but when cigarette smoking habits were considered the relationship was apparent only in smokers (r = 0.68; p less than 0.02). In the under 40 yr group. AP clearance was higher in smokers than nonsmokers (p less than 0.02). There was no such difference in men over 40 yr of age. These observations suggest that the enzyme-inducing effect of smoking diminishes with advancing years. In contrast, and consistent with a reduction in liver blood flow, the clearance of the highly extracted ICG fell with age, irrespective of smoking habits (r = 0.57; p less than 0.004). These findings suggest that while hepatic drug clearance may be impaired in elderly people, the outcome depends not only on the effects of the aging process on the physiologic determinants of hepatic clearance (liver blood flow and the activity of the drug-metabolizing enzymes) but also on the effects of environmental factors, such as smoking.", "contents": "Effect of aging and cigarette smoking on antipyrine and indocyanine green elimination. The plasma clearances of antipyrine (AP) and indocyanine green (ICG) have been measured after intravenous administration in each of 20 normal male subjects aged 22 to 72 yr. An additional 4 subjects aged 65 to 73 yr received only ICG. AP clearance fell with age in the group as a whole (r = 0.56; p less than 0.01), but when cigarette smoking habits were considered the relationship was apparent only in smokers (r = 0.68; p less than 0.02). In the under 40 yr group. AP clearance was higher in smokers than nonsmokers (p less than 0.02). There was no such difference in men over 40 yr of age. These observations suggest that the enzyme-inducing effect of smoking diminishes with advancing years. In contrast, and consistent with a reduction in liver blood flow, the clearance of the highly extracted ICG fell with age, irrespective of smoking habits (r = 0.57; p less than 0.004). These findings suggest that while hepatic drug clearance may be impaired in elderly people, the outcome depends not only on the effects of the aging process on the physiologic determinants of hepatic clearance (liver blood flow and the activity of the drug-metabolizing enzymes) but also on the effects of environmental factors, such as smoking.", "PMID": 445957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7345", "title": "Lack of effect of bran on digoxin absorption.", "content": "The effect of dietary fiber on digoxin absorption was investigated in 12 patients taking digoxin. Steady-state serum digoxin concentrations were determined while subjects were on a regular diet and while they were on a diet supplemented with 22 gm bran daily. During the period of bran supplementation, the serum digoxin concentration did not change (average change, +0.5%; 90% confidence interval, -12% to +14%). Bran does not cause a clinically significant reduction in digoxin absorption.", "contents": "Lack of effect of bran on digoxin absorption. The effect of dietary fiber on digoxin absorption was investigated in 12 patients taking digoxin. Steady-state serum digoxin concentrations were determined while subjects were on a regular diet and while they were on a diet supplemented with 22 gm bran daily. During the period of bran supplementation, the serum digoxin concentration did not change (average change, +0.5%; 90% confidence interval, -12% to +14%). Bran does not cause a clinically significant reduction in digoxin absorption.", "PMID": 445958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7346", "title": "Kinetics of intravenous amoxicillin in patients on long-term dialysis.", "content": "The kinetics of intravenous amoxicillin was studied in 8 patients with creatinine clearances of less than 7 ml/min who were on long-term hemodialysis. Kinetic parameters were determined using a 2-compartment linear model. The serum half-life (t1/2) of amoxicillin in these patients ranged from 7.5 to 21 hr. The t1/2 fell to 2.84 +/- 0.45 hr during dialysis. Approximately 30% of the dose was recovered in the dialysate during 4 hr of dialysis and there was a 25% reduction per hour in serum concentration. We present a dosage schedule for intravenous amoxicillin in patients with reduced renal function who are undergoing hemodialysis.", "contents": "Kinetics of intravenous amoxicillin in patients on long-term dialysis. The kinetics of intravenous amoxicillin was studied in 8 patients with creatinine clearances of less than 7 ml/min who were on long-term hemodialysis. Kinetic parameters were determined using a 2-compartment linear model. The serum half-life (t1/2) of amoxicillin in these patients ranged from 7.5 to 21 hr. The t1/2 fell to 2.84 +/- 0.45 hr during dialysis. Approximately 30% of the dose was recovered in the dialysate during 4 hr of dialysis and there was a 25% reduction per hour in serum concentration. We present a dosage schedule for intravenous amoxicillin in patients with reduced renal function who are undergoing hemodialysis.", "PMID": 445959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7347", "title": "Effects of three antibiotics on theophylline kinetics.", "content": "Nine healthy subjects received single doses of intravenous aminophylline (5 mg/kg) on four occasions separated by at least 1 wk. One trial was a control; the other three were performed during administration of therapeutic doses (250 mg every 6 hr) of tetracycline, erythromycin, and cephalexin. Theophylline concentrations in multiple plasma samples drawn during 24 hr after each dose were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Mean kinetic variables for theophylline during control, tetracycline, erythromycin, and cephalexin trials, respectively, were: volume of distribution, 0.57, 0.61, 0.63, and 0.62 l/kg; elimination half-life (t1/2), 7.9, 9.2, 10.3, and 8.6 hr; total clearance, 0.90, 0.84, 0.78, and 0.89 ml/min/kg. In no case did differences between treatment conditions approach significance. Thus there is no consistent evidence of a kinetic interaction between theophylline and three commonly prescribed antibiotics.", "contents": "Effects of three antibiotics on theophylline kinetics. Nine healthy subjects received single doses of intravenous aminophylline (5 mg/kg) on four occasions separated by at least 1 wk. One trial was a control; the other three were performed during administration of therapeutic doses (250 mg every 6 hr) of tetracycline, erythromycin, and cephalexin. Theophylline concentrations in multiple plasma samples drawn during 24 hr after each dose were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Mean kinetic variables for theophylline during control, tetracycline, erythromycin, and cephalexin trials, respectively, were: volume of distribution, 0.57, 0.61, 0.63, and 0.62 l/kg; elimination half-life (t1/2), 7.9, 9.2, 10.3, and 8.6 hr; total clearance, 0.90, 0.84, 0.78, and 0.89 ml/min/kg. In no case did differences between treatment conditions approach significance. Thus there is no consistent evidence of a kinetic interaction between theophylline and three commonly prescribed antibiotics.", "PMID": 445960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7348", "title": "Piperacillin kinetics.", "content": "Piperacillin was administered to normal, healthy volunteers by an intravenous infusion over 30 min at dosage regimens of 12 gm daily (4 gm every 8 hr) and 24 gm daily (6 gm every 6 hr) for 5 consecutive days. Mean peak serum level after 12 gm daily was 244 +/- 24 (SE) microgram/ml and after 24 gm daily, 353 +/- 7 microgram/ml. After infusion the serum level declined monoexponentially in most subjects. On the 12-gm daily dosage mean values were 60 min for half-life (t1/2), 16 1 for volume of distribution, 188 ml/min for body clearance, and 139 ml/min for renal clearance. The same values on day 4 were 47 min, 12 1, 181 ml/min, and 125 ml/min; the volume of distribution was lower than on day 1. On the 24-gm daily dosage regimen, t1/2 was 60 min; volume of distribution, 16 1; body clearance, 183 ml/min; and renal clearance, 101 ml/min on day 1 compared to 68 min, 15 1, 148 ml/min, and 71 ml/min on day 4, the last 2 being significantly lower than on day 1. High renal clearance values were observed at low serum concentrations and vice versa, suggesting saturation of the tubular secretion process at high piperacillin concentrations in serum.", "contents": "Piperacillin kinetics. Piperacillin was administered to normal, healthy volunteers by an intravenous infusion over 30 min at dosage regimens of 12 gm daily (4 gm every 8 hr) and 24 gm daily (6 gm every 6 hr) for 5 consecutive days. Mean peak serum level after 12 gm daily was 244 +/- 24 (SE) microgram/ml and after 24 gm daily, 353 +/- 7 microgram/ml. After infusion the serum level declined monoexponentially in most subjects. On the 12-gm daily dosage mean values were 60 min for half-life (t1/2), 16 1 for volume of distribution, 188 ml/min for body clearance, and 139 ml/min for renal clearance. The same values on day 4 were 47 min, 12 1, 181 ml/min, and 125 ml/min; the volume of distribution was lower than on day 1. On the 24-gm daily dosage regimen, t1/2 was 60 min; volume of distribution, 16 1; body clearance, 183 ml/min; and renal clearance, 101 ml/min on day 1 compared to 68 min, 15 1, 148 ml/min, and 71 ml/min on day 4, the last 2 being significantly lower than on day 1. High renal clearance values were observed at low serum concentrations and vice versa, suggesting saturation of the tubular secretion process at high piperacillin concentrations in serum.", "PMID": 445961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7349", "title": "Cephalothin kinetics: before, during, and after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.", "content": "Cephalothin kinetics was studied in 5 patients the day before (PREOP), during (SURG), and the day after (POSTOP) cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. The PREOP (114 ml/min) and SURG (94 ml/min) renal clearances were of the same order but both were less than POSTOP renal clearance (248 ml/min). Cephalothin total body clearance during operation was lower (p less than 0.01) than PREOP or POSTOP clearance, with decreased metabolic clearance the primary cause. There was reduction in cephalothin elimination throughout the surgical procedure, not only in the period of extracorporeal circulation, indicating that general anesthesia had a significant influence on drug disposition. The metabolite deacetylcephalothin was rapidly formed on all 3 days and its kinetic behavior paralleled that of the parent drug.", "contents": "Cephalothin kinetics: before, during, and after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Cephalothin kinetics was studied in 5 patients the day before (PREOP), during (SURG), and the day after (POSTOP) cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. The PREOP (114 ml/min) and SURG (94 ml/min) renal clearances were of the same order but both were less than POSTOP renal clearance (248 ml/min). Cephalothin total body clearance during operation was lower (p less than 0.01) than PREOP or POSTOP clearance, with decreased metabolic clearance the primary cause. There was reduction in cephalothin elimination throughout the surgical procedure, not only in the period of extracorporeal circulation, indicating that general anesthesia had a significant influence on drug disposition. The metabolite deacetylcephalothin was rapidly formed on all 3 days and its kinetic behavior paralleled that of the parent drug.", "PMID": 445962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7350", "title": "Presence of 2,4-diamino-N10-methylpteroic acid after high-dose methotrexate.", "content": "Assay of plasma methotrexate has been established as important to its safe use. We have investigated the specificity of 2 assay procedures for methotrexate: the competitive dihydrofolate reductase binding assay (CRBA) and the radioimmunoassay (RIA). The RIA of plasma methotrexate resulted in consistently higher values than the CRBA, with greater differences at later measurement times. A compound that strongly cross-reacts in the RIA, but not the CRBA, has been identified in plasma and urine of patients on high-dose methotrexate therapy, and appears to be the carboxypeptidase cleavage product (2,4-diamino-N10-methylpteroic acid) on the basis of chromatographic and ultraviolet spectral properties. Although this compound is present as a minor contaminant in commercial methotrexate preparations, quantitative assessment of urinary excretion suggests that in man a major portion of the compound is derived from methotrexate metabolism.", "contents": "Presence of 2,4-diamino-N10-methylpteroic acid after high-dose methotrexate. Assay of plasma methotrexate has been established as important to its safe use. We have investigated the specificity of 2 assay procedures for methotrexate: the competitive dihydrofolate reductase binding assay (CRBA) and the radioimmunoassay (RIA). The RIA of plasma methotrexate resulted in consistently higher values than the CRBA, with greater differences at later measurement times. A compound that strongly cross-reacts in the RIA, but not the CRBA, has been identified in plasma and urine of patients on high-dose methotrexate therapy, and appears to be the carboxypeptidase cleavage product (2,4-diamino-N10-methylpteroic acid) on the basis of chromatographic and ultraviolet spectral properties. Although this compound is present as a minor contaminant in commercial methotrexate preparations, quantitative assessment of urinary excretion suggests that in man a major portion of the compound is derived from methotrexate metabolism.", "PMID": 445963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7351", "title": "Kinetics of intravenous melphalan.", "content": "We have studied the disposition and elimination of melphalan after intravenous administration in 9 patients with cancer. High-pressure liquid chromatography and 14C-melphalan were used to assay drug concentration in plasma and urine. Composite plasma t1/2alpha was 7.7 +/- 3.3 and t1/2beta was 108 +/- 20.8 min for 8 of the patients. The mean 24-hr urinary excretion of melphalan was 13.0 +/- 5.4% of the administered dose. In 2 patients, 80% to 100% of the measured 14C counts in plasma and urine samples at each study interval, up to 24 hr after drug administration, could be accounted for by the sum of parent compound, monohydroxy and dihydroxy products, and methanol nonextractable radioactivity (i.e., protein-bound activity). These data and evidence of rapid disappearance from plasma at 37 degrees in vitro suggest that spontaneous degradation, and not enzymatic metabolism, is the major determinant of the t1/2 of melphalan in vivo.", "contents": "Kinetics of intravenous melphalan. We have studied the disposition and elimination of melphalan after intravenous administration in 9 patients with cancer. High-pressure liquid chromatography and 14C-melphalan were used to assay drug concentration in plasma and urine. Composite plasma t1/2alpha was 7.7 +/- 3.3 and t1/2beta was 108 +/- 20.8 min for 8 of the patients. The mean 24-hr urinary excretion of melphalan was 13.0 +/- 5.4% of the administered dose. In 2 patients, 80% to 100% of the measured 14C counts in plasma and urine samples at each study interval, up to 24 hr after drug administration, could be accounted for by the sum of parent compound, monohydroxy and dihydroxy products, and methanol nonextractable radioactivity (i.e., protein-bound activity). These data and evidence of rapid disappearance from plasma at 37 degrees in vitro suggest that spontaneous degradation, and not enzymatic metabolism, is the major determinant of the t1/2 of melphalan in vivo.", "PMID": 445964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7352", "title": "Identification and quantitation of hydrazine in the urine of patients treated with hydralazine.", "content": "Hydrazine has been identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the 0- to 24-hr urine of patients administered hydralazine. With a specific gas chromatographic assay procedure, the amount of hydrazine in the 0- to 24-hr urine was determined in patients treated with various doses of hydralazine. The amount of hydrazine detected in the urine was greater in the slow acetylator phenotype than in the rapid acetylator phenotype. Studies indicated that hydrazine was not produced by chemical breakdown of hydralazine or its known metabolites in urine and therefore was unlikely to be a urinary artefact formed by chemical decomposition in the urine.", "contents": "Identification and quantitation of hydrazine in the urine of patients treated with hydralazine. Hydrazine has been identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the 0- to 24-hr urine of patients administered hydralazine. With a specific gas chromatographic assay procedure, the amount of hydrazine in the 0- to 24-hr urine was determined in patients treated with various doses of hydralazine. The amount of hydrazine detected in the urine was greater in the slow acetylator phenotype than in the rapid acetylator phenotype. Studies indicated that hydrazine was not produced by chemical breakdown of hydralazine or its known metabolites in urine and therefore was unlikely to be a urinary artefact formed by chemical decomposition in the urine.", "PMID": 445966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7353", "title": "Metabolic responses to plasma concentrations of theophylline.", "content": "We investigated the effect of intravenous infusions of aminophylline on plasma glucose, insulin (IRI), glucagon (IRG), growth hormone (HGH), cortisol, and free fatty acid (FFA) levels in healthy young subjects. Six received an intravenous loading dose of aminophylline (6.0 mg/kg over 20 min) followed by a maintenance dose (0.9 mg/kg/hr) for 100 min. Another 7 subjects initially received smaller loading (3.0 mg/kg) and maintenance (0.45 mg/kg/hr) doses, and after 60 min they received a second loading dose (3.0 mg/kg) followed by a larger maintenance dose (0.9 mg/kg/hr) over 120 min. In these fasting volunteers, infusion of aminophylline, which produced theophylline levels in the usual therapeutic range (10 to 20 microgram/ml) caused small increases in plasma glucose levels without changing IRI, IRG, HGH, or cortisol. There were rapid, pronounced, and prolonged rises in FFA associated with the aminophylline infusion. Increases in FFA paralleled the rise in theophylline levels. It is concluded that routine therapeutic doses of theophylline, i.e., doses that achieve serum levels normally encountered in treatment for bronchial asthma, cause a marked rise in FFA and a slight rise in glucose (8 +/- 3 mg/dl) without changing levels of IRI, IRG, HGH, or cortisol.", "contents": "Metabolic responses to plasma concentrations of theophylline. We investigated the effect of intravenous infusions of aminophylline on plasma glucose, insulin (IRI), glucagon (IRG), growth hormone (HGH), cortisol, and free fatty acid (FFA) levels in healthy young subjects. Six received an intravenous loading dose of aminophylline (6.0 mg/kg over 20 min) followed by a maintenance dose (0.9 mg/kg/hr) for 100 min. Another 7 subjects initially received smaller loading (3.0 mg/kg) and maintenance (0.45 mg/kg/hr) doses, and after 60 min they received a second loading dose (3.0 mg/kg) followed by a larger maintenance dose (0.9 mg/kg/hr) over 120 min. In these fasting volunteers, infusion of aminophylline, which produced theophylline levels in the usual therapeutic range (10 to 20 microgram/ml) caused small increases in plasma glucose levels without changing IRI, IRG, HGH, or cortisol. There were rapid, pronounced, and prolonged rises in FFA associated with the aminophylline infusion. Increases in FFA paralleled the rise in theophylline levels. It is concluded that routine therapeutic doses of theophylline, i.e., doses that achieve serum levels normally encountered in treatment for bronchial asthma, cause a marked rise in FFA and a slight rise in glucose (8 +/- 3 mg/dl) without changing levels of IRI, IRG, HGH, or cortisol.", "PMID": 445967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7354", "title": "A critical viewpoint by a general surgeon toward reconstructive surgery after mastectomy.", "content": "Reconstructive breast surgery is accompanied by hazards, both known and unknown, which may endanger the life of the patient. On the other hand, the benefits are largely a modest gesture toward the physical and emotional adjustment. It is the duty of the physician to present all aspects of the contemplated procedure and let the patient decide whether her emotional needs justify the risks entailed.", "contents": "A critical viewpoint by a general surgeon toward reconstructive surgery after mastectomy. Reconstructive breast surgery is accompanied by hazards, both known and unknown, which may endanger the life of the patient. On the other hand, the benefits are largely a modest gesture toward the physical and emotional adjustment. It is the duty of the physician to present all aspects of the contemplated procedure and let the patient decide whether her emotional needs justify the risks entailed.", "PMID": 445970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7355", "title": "Effects of radiation therapy on wound healing after mastectomy.", "content": "There is increasing use of various forms of reconstructive surgery. This will mean that more patients with previously irradiated tissue will be subjected to these procedures. It is imperative that the surgeon and the radiation therapist collaborate in the management of these patients in order to avoid unneccessary injuries.", "contents": "Effects of radiation therapy on wound healing after mastectomy. There is increasing use of various forms of reconstructive surgery. This will mean that more patients with previously irradiated tissue will be subjected to these procedures. It is imperative that the surgeon and the radiation therapist collaborate in the management of these patients in order to avoid unneccessary injuries.", "PMID": 445971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7356", "title": "Chemotherapy and wound healing.", "content": "Only patients with carcinoma of the breast who have a good prognosis after curative surgery are the best candidates for reconstructive surgery. On the other hand, patients who have a poor prognosis should not be considered for reconstructive breast surgery. Patients with guarded and intermediate prognoses who are candidates for adjuvant chemotherapy programs may be considered for reconstruction after completion of their programs and not prior to or during the programs. They should be evaluated at the end of such program, which ranges from one to two years, to assure absence of occult metastases and to assure complete bone marrow recovery. Even then, if metastases develop at a later date (after insertion of the prosthesis), tissue sloughing may occur at the site of the implant that may delay therapy or cause overwhelming infection.", "contents": "Chemotherapy and wound healing. Only patients with carcinoma of the breast who have a good prognosis after curative surgery are the best candidates for reconstructive surgery. On the other hand, patients who have a poor prognosis should not be considered for reconstructive breast surgery. Patients with guarded and intermediate prognoses who are candidates for adjuvant chemotherapy programs may be considered for reconstruction after completion of their programs and not prior to or during the programs. They should be evaluated at the end of such program, which ranges from one to two years, to assure absence of occult metastases and to assure complete bone marrow recovery. Even then, if metastases develop at a later date (after insertion of the prosthesis), tissue sloughing may occur at the site of the implant that may delay therapy or cause overwhelming infection.", "PMID": 445972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7357", "title": "Breast reconstruction following mastectomy for malignant disease: a surgical oncologist's point of view.", "content": "The various factors that enter into the decision and recommendation for breast reconstruction after mastectomy must include the time and number of procedures which may be required and the probability of recurrent cancer, but most of all, the degree of enthusiasm of the woman herself for the procedure. Only a small percentage of women who initially express interest in reconstruction actually carry it through to completion, for many reasons. What may have been considered initially as a \"must\" may lose its attractiveness with the passage of time and the realization that mutilation need not be an absolute synonym for mastectomy. Since there is no perfect reconstruction yet available, there cannot be any arbitrary and dogmatic rules established to separate the \"should's\" from the \"should not's\". We must await more technical advances from innovative surgeons and biomedical scientists before that millennium arrives. Concurrently, we must endeavor to find techniques of earlier and earlier detection, in the ultimate hope that the diagnosis of breast cancer may be made at a time early enough in its natural history that mastectomy would no longer be required and cure would be guaranteed!", "contents": "Breast reconstruction following mastectomy for malignant disease: a surgical oncologist's point of view. The various factors that enter into the decision and recommendation for breast reconstruction after mastectomy must include the time and number of procedures which may be required and the probability of recurrent cancer, but most of all, the degree of enthusiasm of the woman herself for the procedure. Only a small percentage of women who initially express interest in reconstruction actually carry it through to completion, for many reasons. What may have been considered initially as a \"must\" may lose its attractiveness with the passage of time and the realization that mutilation need not be an absolute synonym for mastectomy. Since there is no perfect reconstruction yet available, there cannot be any arbitrary and dogmatic rules established to separate the \"should's\" from the \"should not's\". We must await more technical advances from innovative surgeons and biomedical scientists before that millennium arrives. Concurrently, we must endeavor to find techniques of earlier and earlier detection, in the ultimate hope that the diagnosis of breast cancer may be made at a time early enough in its natural history that mastectomy would no longer be required and cure would be guaranteed!", "PMID": 445973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7358", "title": "Sulfonylurea drugs and insulin-independent diabetes mellitus.", "content": "Insulin-independent diabetes is a disease characterized by insulin resistance and the patient's concomitant inability to compensate by exaggerated insulin secretion. A primary abnormality in the plasma membrane of the afflicted cells may cause both of these phenomena. Recent studies investigating the mechanism of action of sulfonylurea drugs show that these agents probably exert their antidiabetic action by increasing insulin sensitivity and ameliorating the insulin resistance, rather than by increasing insulin secretion. Dietary treatment alone, though effective in lowering the FPG level, does not ameliorate the insulin resistance of insulin-independent diabetes mellitus. Thus, sulfonylurea drugs appear to be rational therapeutic agents for the treatment of this form of diabetes. Clinical studies confirm the beneficial effects of these drugs in controlling the hyperglycemia of insulin-independent diabetes. Major unresolved questions are (1) Why do primary and secondary failures occur? (2) Is the underlying membrane abnormality progressive? (3) How long are sulfonylureas effective? (4) What is the mechanism of the membrane disturbance and how do sulfonylureas ameliorate it? (5) Do sulfonylureas drugs cause cardiovascular toxicity? The answers to these questions will provide further insight into our understanding of insulin-independent diabetes and will lead to the development of better drugs for its treatment. In the meantime, sulfonylureas are rational agents for the therapy for this disorder, if they are used appropriately.", "contents": "Sulfonylurea drugs and insulin-independent diabetes mellitus. Insulin-independent diabetes is a disease characterized by insulin resistance and the patient's concomitant inability to compensate by exaggerated insulin secretion. A primary abnormality in the plasma membrane of the afflicted cells may cause both of these phenomena. Recent studies investigating the mechanism of action of sulfonylurea drugs show that these agents probably exert their antidiabetic action by increasing insulin sensitivity and ameliorating the insulin resistance, rather than by increasing insulin secretion. Dietary treatment alone, though effective in lowering the FPG level, does not ameliorate the insulin resistance of insulin-independent diabetes mellitus. Thus, sulfonylurea drugs appear to be rational therapeutic agents for the treatment of this form of diabetes. Clinical studies confirm the beneficial effects of these drugs in controlling the hyperglycemia of insulin-independent diabetes. Major unresolved questions are (1) Why do primary and secondary failures occur? (2) Is the underlying membrane abnormality progressive? (3) How long are sulfonylureas effective? (4) What is the mechanism of the membrane disturbance and how do sulfonylureas ameliorate it? (5) Do sulfonylureas drugs cause cardiovascular toxicity? The answers to these questions will provide further insight into our understanding of insulin-independent diabetes and will lead to the development of better drugs for its treatment. In the meantime, sulfonylureas are rational agents for the therapy for this disorder, if they are used appropriately.", "PMID": 445991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7359", "title": "The effects of psychotropic drugs and diuretics on blood glucose levels in diabetes mellitus.", "content": "It has been clearly established that most diuretics and most tranquilizers can raise blood glucose levels in diabetics, while antidepressants can lower them. The extent of these effects is variable but can be highly significant clinically. Chlorpromazine has very likely been responsible for a considerable increase in the prevalence of diabetes in hospitalized psychotics, while antidepressants can produce useful improvement of diabetic control, especially in brittle diabetics.", "contents": "The effects of psychotropic drugs and diuretics on blood glucose levels in diabetes mellitus. It has been clearly established that most diuretics and most tranquilizers can raise blood glucose levels in diabetics, while antidepressants can lower them. The extent of these effects is variable but can be highly significant clinically. Chlorpromazine has very likely been responsible for a considerable increase in the prevalence of diabetes in hospitalized psychotics, while antidepressants can produce useful improvement of diabetic control, especially in brittle diabetics.", "PMID": 445994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7360", "title": "Hemispheric efficiency in middle and later adulthood.", "content": "Right and left hemisphere efficiency, as measured by dichotic memory for numbers, was assessed in a sample of older adults in Experiment I. Right hemisphere efficiency dropped off sharply with age, while left hemisphere efficiency did not show a significant decline. A second group of subjects was tested on a musical note recognition task in Experiment II. Regression analyses revealed significant age decrements in performance, regardless of ear/hemisphere involved. The writers suggested that the reported decline with age in spatial ability may result from an age related decline in right hemispheric functioning, even on tasks that are right hemisphere dominant. The lack of decline reported for verbal ability may be a consequence of the lack of decline in left hemisphere efficiency with regard to left hemisphere dominant tasks.", "contents": "Hemispheric efficiency in middle and later adulthood. Right and left hemisphere efficiency, as measured by dichotic memory for numbers, was assessed in a sample of older adults in Experiment I. Right hemisphere efficiency dropped off sharply with age, while left hemisphere efficiency did not show a significant decline. A second group of subjects was tested on a musical note recognition task in Experiment II. Regression analyses revealed significant age decrements in performance, regardless of ear/hemisphere involved. The writers suggested that the reported decline with age in spatial ability may result from an age related decline in right hemispheric functioning, even on tasks that are right hemisphere dominant. The lack of decline reported for verbal ability may be a consequence of the lack of decline in left hemisphere efficiency with regard to left hemisphere dominant tasks.", "PMID": 446035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7361", "title": "\"Transcortical\" features of aphasia following left thalamic hemorrhage.", "content": "In a series of 14 thalamic hemorrhage documented by Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) scans, aphasia was present in seven out of eight patients with left lesions while it was absent in the six patients with right lesions. In three cases where detailed language testing was performed, aphasia was characterized by reduction of spontaneous speech with semantic paraphasias, preserved repetition and partially defective auditory verbal comprehension. The language disturbance was persistent in two patients, while it recovered spontaneously within four weeks in one patient. The clinical picture in these patients is similar to the classical \"transcortical\" aphasias, which are usually due to damage of the marginal language areas. It is suggested that the left thalamus contributes to the semantic level of verbal behavior, which is possibly subserved by these areas.", "contents": "\"Transcortical\" features of aphasia following left thalamic hemorrhage. In a series of 14 thalamic hemorrhage documented by Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) scans, aphasia was present in seven out of eight patients with left lesions while it was absent in the six patients with right lesions. In three cases where detailed language testing was performed, aphasia was characterized by reduction of spontaneous speech with semantic paraphasias, preserved repetition and partially defective auditory verbal comprehension. The language disturbance was persistent in two patients, while it recovered spontaneously within four weeks in one patient. The clinical picture in these patients is similar to the classical \"transcortical\" aphasias, which are usually due to damage of the marginal language areas. It is suggested that the left thalamus contributes to the semantic level of verbal behavior, which is possibly subserved by these areas.", "PMID": 446036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7362", "title": "Memory retraining in brain-damaged patients: the airplane list.", "content": "Recall failures can be traced to inadequate encoding and unfocussed retrieval search. A method is given for encouraging deep and elaborate encoding of a list of words, and two brain-damaged patients who were unable to recall the list at first, were shown to retrieve many of the words when retrieval cues were given by the examiner.", "contents": "Memory retraining in brain-damaged patients: the airplane list. Recall failures can be traced to inadequate encoding and unfocussed retrieval search. A method is given for encouraging deep and elaborate encoding of a list of words, and two brain-damaged patients who were unable to recall the list at first, were shown to retrieve many of the words when retrieval cues were given by the examiner.", "PMID": 446037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7363", "title": "Rehabilitation of alexia: a case study.", "content": "This case study described the success of a technique labeled Multiple Oral Rereading (MOR) in the remediation of a case of acquired alexia in an adult male. Unusually slow visual-verbal processing characteristic of this patient is sometimes noted in dyslexic children. The possibility that MOR might prove effective for other selected cases of acquired alexia and \"developmental\" dyslexia is considered.", "contents": "Rehabilitation of alexia: a case study. This case study described the success of a technique labeled Multiple Oral Rereading (MOR) in the remediation of a case of acquired alexia in an adult male. Unusually slow visual-verbal processing characteristic of this patient is sometimes noted in dyslexic children. The possibility that MOR might prove effective for other selected cases of acquired alexia and \"developmental\" dyslexia is considered.", "PMID": 446038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7364", "title": "Signal detection theory and the effects of severe head injury upon recognition memory.", "content": "Previous reports by Brooks (1974a, 1974b) employed the techniques of signal detection theory to analyse the effects of severe head injury upon recognition memory. The arguments contained in these papers are criticized with specific reference to the validity of the parameters of signal detection theory as indices of sensitivity and response bias. It is suggested that, when the theory is applied in an appropriate manner, severe head injury is shown to produce an impairment of recognition sensitivity with no concurrent change in response bias. The use of theory neutral procedures for evaluating sensitivity and response bias leads to the same conclusion.", "contents": "Signal detection theory and the effects of severe head injury upon recognition memory. Previous reports by Brooks (1974a, 1974b) employed the techniques of signal detection theory to analyse the effects of severe head injury upon recognition memory. The arguments contained in these papers are criticized with specific reference to the validity of the parameters of signal detection theory as indices of sensitivity and response bias. It is suggested that, when the theory is applied in an appropriate manner, severe head injury is shown to produce an impairment of recognition sensitivity with no concurrent change in response bias. The use of theory neutral procedures for evaluating sensitivity and response bias leads to the same conclusion.", "PMID": 446039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7365", "title": "Time on target meter.", "content": "The design and construction of an inexpensive time-on-target meter are presented with a logic diagram. This meter has been found to facilitate the recording of proprioceptive feedback performance by automatically recording the cumulative percent of time that the subject's manual tracking is within a specified range on a given trial.", "contents": "Time on target meter. The design and construction of an inexpensive time-on-target meter are presented with a logic diagram. This meter has been found to facilitate the recording of proprioceptive feedback performance by automatically recording the cumulative percent of time that the subject's manual tracking is within a specified range on a given trial.", "PMID": 446041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7366", "title": "Visual scanning and matching dysfunction in brain-damaged patients with drawing impairment.", "content": "Visual matching and visual exploration were examined in 7 normal subjects and 20 brain-damaged patients with drawing impairment measured by the Bender Gestalt Visual-Motor Test. Right brain-damaged patients made significantly more errors of rotation and integration than left brain-damaged patients. Selecteded Bender figures were also used as stimuli for both visual matching and visual exploration tests. The ability to match Bender figures was found to be impaired in right but not left brain-damaged patients. All patients showed eye movement and fixation patterns different from those normals. Patients essentially had more fixations and shorter fixation durations. Significant intercorrelations were found between the total Bender Gestalt score and visual matching and visual exploration scores. These findings indicate that visual matching and visual exploration measures can be used to evaluate perceptual impairment in individuals who do not have adequate motor responses or where impaired motor responses may confound interpretations about visual cognitive impairment.", "contents": "Visual scanning and matching dysfunction in brain-damaged patients with drawing impairment. Visual matching and visual exploration were examined in 7 normal subjects and 20 brain-damaged patients with drawing impairment measured by the Bender Gestalt Visual-Motor Test. Right brain-damaged patients made significantly more errors of rotation and integration than left brain-damaged patients. Selecteded Bender figures were also used as stimuli for both visual matching and visual exploration tests. The ability to match Bender figures was found to be impaired in right but not left brain-damaged patients. All patients showed eye movement and fixation patterns different from those normals. Patients essentially had more fixations and shorter fixation durations. Significant intercorrelations were found between the total Bender Gestalt score and visual matching and visual exploration scores. These findings indicate that visual matching and visual exploration measures can be used to evaluate perceptual impairment in individuals who do not have adequate motor responses or where impaired motor responses may confound interpretations about visual cognitive impairment.", "PMID": 446042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7367", "title": "Presentation-time limits on memory retrieval.", "content": "An experiment which varied presentation-time of a list of 20 sentences relating pairs of words was done. The subjects were 94 undergraduates. Processing variations included for some groups instructions to use visual imagery, and retrieval variations included recall and matching recognition. The results indicate that variations in presentation-time are strongly related to memory retrieval. Several experiments are reviewed, and the importance of specifying presentation-time in studies of memory-retraining in brain-damaged patients is emphasized.", "contents": "Presentation-time limits on memory retrieval. An experiment which varied presentation-time of a list of 20 sentences relating pairs of words was done. The subjects were 94 undergraduates. Processing variations included for some groups instructions to use visual imagery, and retrieval variations included recall and matching recognition. The results indicate that variations in presentation-time are strongly related to memory retrieval. Several experiments are reviewed, and the importance of specifying presentation-time in studies of memory-retraining in brain-damaged patients is emphasized.", "PMID": 446043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7368", "title": "Performance by split-brain humans on lateralized vigilance tasks.", "content": "Studies are described of the vigilance performance of the cerebral hemispheres of split-brain man. Investigations of visual, auditory and tactual performance are reported for six total commissurotomy patients. The vigilance tasks were lateralized to test the functions of the two hemispheres and make comparison between them. The right hemisphere emerges the superior in its vigilance performance in every case. The results support the association of sustained attention with the functions of the right hemisphere and they suggest that there are different mental mechanisms for selective and sustained attention.", "contents": "Performance by split-brain humans on lateralized vigilance tasks. Studies are described of the vigilance performance of the cerebral hemispheres of split-brain man. Investigations of visual, auditory and tactual performance are reported for six total commissurotomy patients. The vigilance tasks were lateralized to test the functions of the two hemispheres and make comparison between them. The right hemisphere emerges the superior in its vigilance performance in every case. The results support the association of sustained attention with the functions of the right hemisphere and they suggest that there are different mental mechanisms for selective and sustained attention.", "PMID": 446044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7369", "title": "The effect of concurrent activity on hemispheric asymmetries.", "content": "Two experiments were performed to test Kinsbourne's (1970) contention that perceptual laterality effects are affected by the nature of concurrent activity. In the first, subjects listened to verbal or nonverbal dichotic material while holding verbal or spatial material in memory. In the second, subjects localized dots while remembering a list of abstract words. In neither experiment did the concurrent activity alter the laterality effect in the manner suggested by Kinsbourne's model. This model therefore cannot provide a general explanation for perceptual laterality effects.", "contents": "The effect of concurrent activity on hemispheric asymmetries. Two experiments were performed to test Kinsbourne's (1970) contention that perceptual laterality effects are affected by the nature of concurrent activity. In the first, subjects listened to verbal or nonverbal dichotic material while holding verbal or spatial material in memory. In the second, subjects localized dots while remembering a list of abstract words. In neither experiment did the concurrent activity alter the laterality effect in the manner suggested by Kinsbourne's model. This model therefore cannot provide a general explanation for perceptual laterality effects.", "PMID": 446045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7370", "title": "Material specific serial memory deficit in adolescent dyslexics.", "content": "The present experiment was concerned with an assessment of possible serial, as opposed to general, memory deficit in dyslexia. Previous studies had consistently confounded general and serial memory assessments. Fifteen specifically dyslexic adolescents and 15 normal-reading controls were administered four separate memory tasks. In the general memory for verbal material task they were shown 20 words, each for three seconds, and were then given a deck of 40 word cards and required to pick out the 20 words just seen. In the serial memory version of the verbal task they were again shown 20 words and subsequently required to reproduce the order in which they had been shown. Two comparable (general and serial) procedures were also administered using faces as the to-be-remembered materials. Results showed comparable performances of the dyslexics and controls on both versions of the face memory task and on the general memory version of the words task. On the serial reproduction version of the verbal task, however, dyslexics were found to be significantly impaired relative to controls. Thus, adolescent dyslexics appear to have a memory impairment which is specific for both type of material (verbal) and type of memory (serial). The results are compatible with Orton's (1937) speculation regarding \"sequecing\" and \"memory\" in dyslexia and with the view that the defect resides within the neuropsychological processes of the language-dominant hemisphere.", "contents": "Material specific serial memory deficit in adolescent dyslexics. The present experiment was concerned with an assessment of possible serial, as opposed to general, memory deficit in dyslexia. Previous studies had consistently confounded general and serial memory assessments. Fifteen specifically dyslexic adolescents and 15 normal-reading controls were administered four separate memory tasks. In the general memory for verbal material task they were shown 20 words, each for three seconds, and were then given a deck of 40 word cards and required to pick out the 20 words just seen. In the serial memory version of the verbal task they were again shown 20 words and subsequently required to reproduce the order in which they had been shown. Two comparable (general and serial) procedures were also administered using faces as the to-be-remembered materials. Results showed comparable performances of the dyslexics and controls on both versions of the face memory task and on the general memory version of the words task. On the serial reproduction version of the verbal task, however, dyslexics were found to be significantly impaired relative to controls. Thus, adolescent dyslexics appear to have a memory impairment which is specific for both type of material (verbal) and type of memory (serial). The results are compatible with Orton's (1937) speculation regarding \"sequecing\" and \"memory\" in dyslexia and with the view that the defect resides within the neuropsychological processes of the language-dominant hemisphere.", "PMID": 446046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7371", "title": "Recovery of memory and learning functions following traumatic brain injury.", "content": "Twenty-four traumatically brain-injured males, of whom eight had sustained right-sided, eight left-sided, and eight bilateral or diffuse closed head injuries, took a battery of neuropsychological tests within the first six months, the second six months, the second year and the third year post injury. Performances on WAIS Digits Forward and Backward and Rey's Auditory-Verbal Learning Test were classified as within or below normal range. Comparisons were made (1) between time periods and tests and (2) between subgroups formed by severity, site of lesion, and age. The findings give an overall picture of wide performance variability with consistent improvement in immediate memory span and learning. Recovery varied with the specific nature of the tested function, task complexity, and severity of injury. Neither age, site of injury, not recency were associated with improvement.", "contents": "Recovery of memory and learning functions following traumatic brain injury. Twenty-four traumatically brain-injured males, of whom eight had sustained right-sided, eight left-sided, and eight bilateral or diffuse closed head injuries, took a battery of neuropsychological tests within the first six months, the second six months, the second year and the third year post injury. Performances on WAIS Digits Forward and Backward and Rey's Auditory-Verbal Learning Test were classified as within or below normal range. Comparisons were made (1) between time periods and tests and (2) between subgroups formed by severity, site of lesion, and age. The findings give an overall picture of wide performance variability with consistent improvement in immediate memory span and learning. Recovery varied with the specific nature of the tested function, task complexity, and severity of injury. Neither age, site of injury, not recency were associated with improvement.", "PMID": 446047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7372", "title": "Hemisphere functioning in autistic children.", "content": "Recent research in childhood autism has provided support for the hypothesis that a central cognitive deficit involving severe language impairment underlies this disorder. In this study a group of autistic children were tested for handedness and for lateralization of speech function using a dichotic listening task. Contrary to earlier reports there were no left-handed children in the group although a number showed mixed preference. In the dischotic listening task using pairs of single syllable words the autistic group performed similarly to a matched group of normal children in terms of numbers of correct responses but over all did not show the right ear advantage characteristic of the normal children. There was a significant excess of right hemisphere dominance for verbal stimuli amongst the autistic children suggesting that for some at least, language functions had developed in the right hemisphere. Lateralization was shown to be related to presence or absence of speech before the age of 5 years and to IQ level.", "contents": "Hemisphere functioning in autistic children. Recent research in childhood autism has provided support for the hypothesis that a central cognitive deficit involving severe language impairment underlies this disorder. In this study a group of autistic children were tested for handedness and for lateralization of speech function using a dichotic listening task. Contrary to earlier reports there were no left-handed children in the group although a number showed mixed preference. In the dischotic listening task using pairs of single syllable words the autistic group performed similarly to a matched group of normal children in terms of numbers of correct responses but over all did not show the right ear advantage characteristic of the normal children. There was a significant excess of right hemisphere dominance for verbal stimuli amongst the autistic children suggesting that for some at least, language functions had developed in the right hemisphere. Lateralization was shown to be related to presence or absence of speech before the age of 5 years and to IQ level.", "PMID": 446048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7373", "title": "Is hemispheric specialization important to scholastic achievement?", "content": "Scholastic achievement in both reading and mathematics were examined as a function of hemispheric specialization for visually presented words and pictures. Two groups of subjects (mean ages = 8.8 and 13.3) were included so that hemispheric specialization at an early and later phase of reading sophistication could be monitored. The results indicated that a lack of specialization for words is associated with higher reading achievement in both age groups and that right hemispheric specialization for words is likely to be accompanied by less reading skill. The results were discussed in terms of developmental changes in hemispheric processing and the need to investigate a variety of hemispheric specialization patterns and a variety of acquired skills (music, mathematics, art).", "contents": "Is hemispheric specialization important to scholastic achievement? Scholastic achievement in both reading and mathematics were examined as a function of hemispheric specialization for visually presented words and pictures. Two groups of subjects (mean ages = 8.8 and 13.3) were included so that hemispheric specialization at an early and later phase of reading sophistication could be monitored. The results indicated that a lack of specialization for words is associated with higher reading achievement in both age groups and that right hemispheric specialization for words is likely to be accompanied by less reading skill. The results were discussed in terms of developmental changes in hemispheric processing and the need to investigate a variety of hemispheric specialization patterns and a variety of acquired skills (music, mathematics, art).", "PMID": 446049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7374", "title": "Correlation of changes in body weight and pulmonary vascular pressures with lung water accumulation during fluid overload.", "content": "The accumulation of excess lung water is a major concern after the infusion of large amounts of crystalloid solution. The parameters used to monitor total body and lung water balance include changes in body weight, and the measurement of pulmonary vascular and plasma colloid osmotic pressures. We studied the reliability of these parameters in predicting lung water during severe fluid overload in nephrectomized sheep. We found that the normal lung appeared resistant to excess fluid accumulation, particularly when compared to the splanchnic circulation. Body weight change was an unreliable index of lung water with a correlation coefficient of 0.43. Pulmonary vascular pressures were the best index (r = 0.83) with lung water accumulating rapidly after capillary pressure exceeded 30 cm H2O. The difference between pulmonary capillary pressure and plasma colloid osmotic pressure was not as reliable (r = 0.72) as was capillary pressure alone.", "contents": "Correlation of changes in body weight and pulmonary vascular pressures with lung water accumulation during fluid overload. The accumulation of excess lung water is a major concern after the infusion of large amounts of crystalloid solution. The parameters used to monitor total body and lung water balance include changes in body weight, and the measurement of pulmonary vascular and plasma colloid osmotic pressures. We studied the reliability of these parameters in predicting lung water during severe fluid overload in nephrectomized sheep. We found that the normal lung appeared resistant to excess fluid accumulation, particularly when compared to the splanchnic circulation. Body weight change was an unreliable index of lung water with a correlation coefficient of 0.43. Pulmonary vascular pressures were the best index (r = 0.83) with lung water accumulating rapidly after capillary pressure exceeded 30 cm H2O. The difference between pulmonary capillary pressure and plasma colloid osmotic pressure was not as reliable (r = 0.72) as was capillary pressure alone.", "PMID": 446051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7375", "title": "Studies in shock and resuscitation, I: use of a hypertonic, albumin-containing, fluid demand regimen (HALFD) in resuscitation.", "content": "We have reevaluated and clinically tested the current concepts of shock and resuscitation on a logical, physiological, and physical basis. We have considered the currently accepted resuscitation paradigm which is based upon the thesis that early rapid resuscitation of \"lost\" fluid volume is mandatory and that adequacy of resuscitation can be evaluated by central venous pressure, PAP, PAWP, pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or urine volume. Such methods also accept as natural concomitants that capillary beds are \"damaged by injury\"; that they \"leak\" salt, fluid, and albumin; and that these are expected occurrences which are injury-related. We have also examined and clinically evaluated the thesis that MAP is a primary reflector of the relationships between volume and the size of the currently available functional vascular space. (Currently available functional vascular space is mediated through the baroreceptor (stretch receptor)/neuroendocrine mechanisms.) Under this hypothesis, fluid resuscitation comprises infusion of a volume per unit time given so as to replete currently measurable fluid losses and to normalize and/or sustain MAP and the normal osmolar and oncotic relationships at the capillary/tissue interface while holding hydrostatic pressure at normal. Using burn injury as a model, we compared statistically homogeneous, randomly selected groups of burn patients who were resuscitated using a hypotonic fluid (130 mOsm/liter) alone (group R: 7 patients), hypertonic fluid (240 mOsm/liter) alone group H: 5 patients), or the hypertonic fluid containing albumin (12.5 g/liter) (group A: 7 patients). The results indicate that significantly smaller volumes of fluid were needed to resuscitate the patients in group A with a significantly more rapid normalization of physical, physiological, and biochemical parameters. We conclude that the physically and physiologically appropriate method of resuscitation, demonstrated in burn injury, comprises the use of a fluid given at a rate: (1) to maintain mean arterial and hydrostatic pressures within normal range; (2) that delivers a volume per unit time which does not exceed the capacity of the currently available functional vascular space; (3) that replaces concurrent measurable fluid losses; (4) that is hypertonic (to normalize capillary/tissue osmotic gradients); and (5) that contains colloid (to normalize capillary/tissue osmotic gradients); and (5) that contains colloid (to normalize capillary/tissue oncotic gradients). We further conclude that salt, fluid, and colloid loss into the interstitium during resuscitation frequently is due to the rate delivered and/or the physical nature of the fluid used and not to capillary bed damage outside the zone of injury.", "contents": "Studies in shock and resuscitation, I: use of a hypertonic, albumin-containing, fluid demand regimen (HALFD) in resuscitation. We have reevaluated and clinically tested the current concepts of shock and resuscitation on a logical, physiological, and physical basis. We have considered the currently accepted resuscitation paradigm which is based upon the thesis that early rapid resuscitation of \"lost\" fluid volume is mandatory and that adequacy of resuscitation can be evaluated by central venous pressure, PAP, PAWP, pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or urine volume. Such methods also accept as natural concomitants that capillary beds are \"damaged by injury\"; that they \"leak\" salt, fluid, and albumin; and that these are expected occurrences which are injury-related. We have also examined and clinically evaluated the thesis that MAP is a primary reflector of the relationships between volume and the size of the currently available functional vascular space. (Currently available functional vascular space is mediated through the baroreceptor (stretch receptor)/neuroendocrine mechanisms.) Under this hypothesis, fluid resuscitation comprises infusion of a volume per unit time given so as to replete currently measurable fluid losses and to normalize and/or sustain MAP and the normal osmolar and oncotic relationships at the capillary/tissue interface while holding hydrostatic pressure at normal. Using burn injury as a model, we compared statistically homogeneous, randomly selected groups of burn patients who were resuscitated using a hypotonic fluid (130 mOsm/liter) alone (group R: 7 patients), hypertonic fluid (240 mOsm/liter) alone group H: 5 patients), or the hypertonic fluid containing albumin (12.5 g/liter) (group A: 7 patients). The results indicate that significantly smaller volumes of fluid were needed to resuscitate the patients in group A with a significantly more rapid normalization of physical, physiological, and biochemical parameters. We conclude that the physically and physiologically appropriate method of resuscitation, demonstrated in burn injury, comprises the use of a fluid given at a rate: (1) to maintain mean arterial and hydrostatic pressures within normal range; (2) that delivers a volume per unit time which does not exceed the capacity of the currently available functional vascular space; (3) that replaces concurrent measurable fluid losses; (4) that is hypertonic (to normalize capillary/tissue osmotic gradients); and (5) that contains colloid (to normalize capillary/tissue osmotic gradients); and (5) that contains colloid (to normalize capillary/tissue oncotic gradients). We further conclude that salt, fluid, and colloid loss into the interstitium during resuscitation frequently is due to the rate delivered and/or the physical nature of the fluid used and not to capillary bed damage outside the zone of injury.", "PMID": 446052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7376", "title": "Experimental evaluation of 2F transthoracic thermodilution cardiac outputs in small animals.", "content": "Cardiac output can be measured with a computer using a 2F transthoracic catheter placed during surgery. When injections are made into a central venous catheter, this technique allows for cardiac output measurements to be made in children with complex congenital heart disease not appropriate for placement of a transvenous pulmonary artery catheter. Using rabbits similar in size to the infants most likely to need this technique, 26 experimental comparisons of thermodilution and indocyanine green dye cardiac outputs were made with cardiac outputs as low as 0.2-0.4 liter/min. The relationship between green dye and thermodilution was statistically significant (p less than 0.001) and almost linear (r = 0.92). This documents the validity of both the 2F transthoracic catheter technique in the low range of cardiac outputs appropriate for infants and children.", "contents": "Experimental evaluation of 2F transthoracic thermodilution cardiac outputs in small animals. Cardiac output can be measured with a computer using a 2F transthoracic catheter placed during surgery. When injections are made into a central venous catheter, this technique allows for cardiac output measurements to be made in children with complex congenital heart disease not appropriate for placement of a transvenous pulmonary artery catheter. Using rabbits similar in size to the infants most likely to need this technique, 26 experimental comparisons of thermodilution and indocyanine green dye cardiac outputs were made with cardiac outputs as low as 0.2-0.4 liter/min. The relationship between green dye and thermodilution was statistically significant (p less than 0.001) and almost linear (r = 0.92). This documents the validity of both the 2F transthoracic catheter technique in the low range of cardiac outputs appropriate for infants and children.", "PMID": 446053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7377", "title": "Tetanus: a review.", "content": "Tetanus is caused by the organism Clostridium tetani, which produces tetanospasmin, a neurotoxin responsible for the clinical manifestations of muscle rigidity and reflex spasms. The majority of cases follow an anaerobic wound infection associated with trauma. Incubation period is usually 3 days to 3 weeks. 75% of patients present with trismus. Reflex spasms are seen in 70% of patients and characterize the severity of the disease. Treatment involves removal of the offending organism, neutralization of free neurotoxin, controlling rigidity and reflex spasm, and minimizing complications. Diazepam may be used alone in mild cases. Severe cases require the addition of nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents and mechanical ventilation. Respiratory complications occur early and require aggressive airway management. A serious, late complication is the syndrome of sympathetic nervous system overactivity that is treated with alpha and beta blockade. High mortality rates seen in the United States may be due to delays in diagnosis and lack of familiarity with treatment. The disease is preventable with adequate immunization.", "contents": "Tetanus: a review. Tetanus is caused by the organism Clostridium tetani, which produces tetanospasmin, a neurotoxin responsible for the clinical manifestations of muscle rigidity and reflex spasms. The majority of cases follow an anaerobic wound infection associated with trauma. Incubation period is usually 3 days to 3 weeks. 75% of patients present with trismus. Reflex spasms are seen in 70% of patients and characterize the severity of the disease. Treatment involves removal of the offending organism, neutralization of free neurotoxin, controlling rigidity and reflex spasm, and minimizing complications. Diazepam may be used alone in mild cases. Severe cases require the addition of nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents and mechanical ventilation. Respiratory complications occur early and require aggressive airway management. A serious, late complication is the syndrome of sympathetic nervous system overactivity that is treated with alpha and beta blockade. High mortality rates seen in the United States may be due to delays in diagnosis and lack of familiarity with treatment. The disease is preventable with adequate immunization.", "PMID": 446055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7378", "title": "Impact of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training on resuscitation.", "content": "Restoration of adequate spontaneous circulation after \"arrest\" and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) of 546 patients before and 460 patients after initiation of a CPR training course in a 500-bed city hospital is reported. Between January 1972 and June 1976, adequate circulation after CPR was present in 38.6% of patients before and 50.4% after training ICU nurses and house physicians in modern resuscitation techniques. Factors crucial to resumption of adequate circulation are: (1) CPR training of all hospital personnel so that effective CPR can be started immediately after recognition of an arrest situation, (2) production of a palpable pulse with closed chest cardiac massage, and (3) prompt effective therapy so that the time interval between arrest and resumption of adequate spontaneous circulation is short.", "contents": "Impact of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training on resuscitation. Restoration of adequate spontaneous circulation after \"arrest\" and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) of 546 patients before and 460 patients after initiation of a CPR training course in a 500-bed city hospital is reported. Between January 1972 and June 1976, adequate circulation after CPR was present in 38.6% of patients before and 50.4% after training ICU nurses and house physicians in modern resuscitation techniques. Factors crucial to resumption of adequate circulation are: (1) CPR training of all hospital personnel so that effective CPR can be started immediately after recognition of an arrest situation, (2) production of a palpable pulse with closed chest cardiac massage, and (3) prompt effective therapy so that the time interval between arrest and resumption of adequate spontaneous circulation is short.", "PMID": 446057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7379", "title": "Renal failure in the respiratory intensive care unit.", "content": "The development of renal failure during respiratory failure is of grave prognostic significance. In 686 patients with respiratory failure, 74 developed renal failure; these had a mortality of 80%. The leading predisposing factors are: 1) gastrointestinal bleeding with hypovolemic shock; 2) sepsis with shock; 3) drug induced nephrotoxicity; and 4) hypotension. With antacid gastric neutralization, judicious use of nephrotoxic antibiotics, the incidence of renal failure can be reduced. Once renal failure occurs, early dialysis may increase the chances of recovery in these critically ill patients.", "contents": "Renal failure in the respiratory intensive care unit. The development of renal failure during respiratory failure is of grave prognostic significance. In 686 patients with respiratory failure, 74 developed renal failure; these had a mortality of 80%. The leading predisposing factors are: 1) gastrointestinal bleeding with hypovolemic shock; 2) sepsis with shock; 3) drug induced nephrotoxicity; and 4) hypotension. With antacid gastric neutralization, judicious use of nephrotoxic antibiotics, the incidence of renal failure can be reduced. Once renal failure occurs, early dialysis may increase the chances of recovery in these critically ill patients.", "PMID": 446058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7380", "title": "Stability of the arterial/alveolar oxygen partial pressure ratio. Effects of low ventilation/perfusion regions.", "content": "The alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (AaDO2) and the arterial/alveolar oxygen partial pressure ratio (a/APO2) were compared for stability when inspired oxygen concentration (FIO2) changed. The analysis was based on a three-compartment lung model and experimental results in 10 patients with respiratory failure receiving assisted ventilation. It was found that a/APO2 was more stable than AaDO2 and more useful for: (1) comparing gas exchange in patients receiving different levels of FIO2, (2) following gas exchange in the same patient as FIO2 is changed, and (3) estimating the PaO2 expected at a given level of FIO2 if blood gas data are available at another level. However, areas with low ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) ratios may cause sudden changes in a/PO2 at certain critical values of PAO2. Most stable is a/APO2 and, therefore, most useful at FIO2 levels greater than 0.3, and PaO2 levels less than 100 torr.", "contents": "Stability of the arterial/alveolar oxygen partial pressure ratio. Effects of low ventilation/perfusion regions. The alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (AaDO2) and the arterial/alveolar oxygen partial pressure ratio (a/APO2) were compared for stability when inspired oxygen concentration (FIO2) changed. The analysis was based on a three-compartment lung model and experimental results in 10 patients with respiratory failure receiving assisted ventilation. It was found that a/APO2 was more stable than AaDO2 and more useful for: (1) comparing gas exchange in patients receiving different levels of FIO2, (2) following gas exchange in the same patient as FIO2 is changed, and (3) estimating the PaO2 expected at a given level of FIO2 if blood gas data are available at another level. However, areas with low ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) ratios may cause sudden changes in a/PO2 at certain critical values of PAO2. Most stable is a/APO2 and, therefore, most useful at FIO2 levels greater than 0.3, and PaO2 levels less than 100 torr.", "PMID": 446059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7381", "title": "Effect of dopamine on intrapulmonary shunt fraction and oxygen transport in severe sepsis with circulatory and respiratory failure.", "content": "The hemodynamic response to a dopamine HCl infusion (10 microgram/kg per min) was measured in 25 adult patients with severe sepsis: there were 6 patients with circulatory hyperdynamic states, 9 patients with myocardial failure, and 10 with hypovolemia. Each patient also had acute respiratory failure. Changes of intrapulmonary shunt fraction (Qs/Qt), arterial and mixed venous oxygen tension (PaO2 and PvO2), oxygen transport, and oxygen consumption (VO2) were evaluated before and after dopamine infusion. Dopamine infusion produced clinical improvement and increased cardiac output. The hemodynamic response seemed to differ slightly according to the pattern of circulatory failure: chronotropic effect appeared to be predominant in hyperdynamic states, whereas inotropic effect appeared to be predominant in myocardial failure or hypovolemia. Moreover, in hypovolemic patients we noted a rise in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure suggesting an additional increase in venous return. During this treatment, we also noted a worsening of the Qs/Qt despite the increase in pulmonary blood flow; this worsening did not prevent significant improvements in VO2, but the improvement in PVO2 was offset by increased Qs/Qt and PaO2 remained unchanged.", "contents": "Effect of dopamine on intrapulmonary shunt fraction and oxygen transport in severe sepsis with circulatory and respiratory failure. The hemodynamic response to a dopamine HCl infusion (10 microgram/kg per min) was measured in 25 adult patients with severe sepsis: there were 6 patients with circulatory hyperdynamic states, 9 patients with myocardial failure, and 10 with hypovolemia. Each patient also had acute respiratory failure. Changes of intrapulmonary shunt fraction (Qs/Qt), arterial and mixed venous oxygen tension (PaO2 and PvO2), oxygen transport, and oxygen consumption (VO2) were evaluated before and after dopamine infusion. Dopamine infusion produced clinical improvement and increased cardiac output. The hemodynamic response seemed to differ slightly according to the pattern of circulatory failure: chronotropic effect appeared to be predominant in hyperdynamic states, whereas inotropic effect appeared to be predominant in myocardial failure or hypovolemia. Moreover, in hypovolemic patients we noted a rise in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure suggesting an additional increase in venous return. During this treatment, we also noted a worsening of the Qs/Qt despite the increase in pulmonary blood flow; this worsening did not prevent significant improvements in VO2, but the improvement in PVO2 was offset by increased Qs/Qt and PaO2 remained unchanged.", "PMID": 446060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7382", "title": "Bedside determination of bicarbonate and base excess, blood oxygen saturation and content, VD/VT, and P50 using a programmable calculator.", "content": "Assessing and modifying oxygen transport are major parts of ICU patient management. Determination of base excess, blood oxygen saturation and content, dead space ventilation, and P50 helps in this management. A program is described for determining these variables using a T1 59 programmable calculator and PC 100A printer. Each variable can be independently calculated without running the whole program. The calculator-printer's small size, low cost, and hard copy printout make it a valuable and versatile tool for calculating physiological variables. The program is easily entered by an stored on magnetic card, and prompts the user to enter the appropriate variables, making is easy to run by untrained personnel.", "contents": "Bedside determination of bicarbonate and base excess, blood oxygen saturation and content, VD/VT, and P50 using a programmable calculator. Assessing and modifying oxygen transport are major parts of ICU patient management. Determination of base excess, blood oxygen saturation and content, dead space ventilation, and P50 helps in this management. A program is described for determining these variables using a T1 59 programmable calculator and PC 100A printer. Each variable can be independently calculated without running the whole program. The calculator-printer's small size, low cost, and hard copy printout make it a valuable and versatile tool for calculating physiological variables. The program is easily entered by an stored on magnetic card, and prompts the user to enter the appropriate variables, making is easy to run by untrained personnel.", "PMID": 446062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7383", "title": "An improved program to calculate intrapulmonary shunting.", "content": "A computer program was developed to calculate intrapulmonary venous admixture on a Texas Instruments TI 59 programmable calculator. The program incorporates the following characteristics: 1) a correction for saturated water vapor pressure which varies with body temperature; 2) a mathematical model of the standard oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve; and 3) correction factors for shifts of the dissociation curve due to variations in pH and carbon dioxide tension. It also corrects oxygen tensions obtained at electrode temperature to those at patient temperature, and calculates variations of the Bunsen solubility coefficient of oxygen in blood with body temperature.", "contents": "An improved program to calculate intrapulmonary shunting. A computer program was developed to calculate intrapulmonary venous admixture on a Texas Instruments TI 59 programmable calculator. The program incorporates the following characteristics: 1) a correction for saturated water vapor pressure which varies with body temperature; 2) a mathematical model of the standard oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve; and 3) correction factors for shifts of the dissociation curve due to variations in pH and carbon dioxide tension. It also corrects oxygen tensions obtained at electrode temperature to those at patient temperature, and calculates variations of the Bunsen solubility coefficient of oxygen in blood with body temperature.", "PMID": 446063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7384", "title": "Management of acute epiglottitis.", "content": "Airway obstruction secondary to acute epiglottitis is a dramatic, life-threatening emergency. Early diagnosis and provision of an adequate artificial airway are critical in the management of these patients. Tracheostomy has been the traditional method of securing the airway in acute epiglottitis, but more recently, endotracheal intubation has been advocated. Whichever method of airway management is preferred, it is imperative that every hospital have a protocol for the management of acute epiglottitis so that immediate action can be taken.", "contents": "Management of acute epiglottitis. Airway obstruction secondary to acute epiglottitis is a dramatic, life-threatening emergency. Early diagnosis and provision of an adequate artificial airway are critical in the management of these patients. Tracheostomy has been the traditional method of securing the airway in acute epiglottitis, but more recently, endotracheal intubation has been advocated. Whichever method of airway management is preferred, it is imperative that every hospital have a protocol for the management of acute epiglottitis so that immediate action can be taken.", "PMID": 446064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7385", "title": "Experimental approach to the correlation of hemodynamic changes with increases in urinary lactate dehydrogenase as a new parameter reflecting serious renal tissue damages.", "content": "From previous investigations with nephroptotic patients increased urinary LDH was assumed to be a reliable marker indicating a renal tissue defect due to the organs descent in erect position. Animal experiments now allowed correlation of this enzymatic activity with controlled changes of anatomical and physiological parameters. Changes of the renal hemodynamics or urinary flow induced in acute experiments in dogs simulated kidney displacement in nephroptotic patients. Both ureters were cannulated for separate urine collection and one kidney was manipulated. The renal arterial or venous flow was reduced or the ureter was occluded under electromagnetic blood-flow control. Arterial constriction alone (30%/15 min) selectively caused a drastic decrease (approximately 80%) of Xenon wash-out (= nutrient-flow) in the renal cortex. Under the same conditions radio-labeled microspheres injected intracardially showed a centralization of the renal capillary blood flow from the outer cortex to the juxtamedullary zone. Urinary LDH activities increased up to 800% immediately after arterial constriction. In accordance with total LDH activity the percentage distribution of isoenzymes changed: LDH-I increased and the LDH-V decreased. Neither constriction of the renal vein nor ureteral occlusion had similar effects. In long-term experiments backward fixation of one kidney in rats would reflect the effects of kidney displacement over years in nephroptotic patients: animals were unilaterally nephrectomized and the remaining kidney was dislocated backwards (approximately 2,5 vertebrae) and fixed to the lateral pelvic wall. \"Ptotic\" rats showed during the following examinations a constant increase of urinary LDH up to 50% by 26 weeks postoperatively. In accordance with increased LDH the isotope nephrogram was pathological and arteriographies showed a stretched and narrowed renal artery. In a number of rats \"ptotic\" fixation was not effective enough. All these animals showed normal LDH, isotope nephrograms and arteriographies. Both animal experiments documented that reduced flow/hypoxia is essentially responsible for the tissue damage in the kidney manifested by increased release of urinary LDH.", "contents": "Experimental approach to the correlation of hemodynamic changes with increases in urinary lactate dehydrogenase as a new parameter reflecting serious renal tissue damages. From previous investigations with nephroptotic patients increased urinary LDH was assumed to be a reliable marker indicating a renal tissue defect due to the organs descent in erect position. Animal experiments now allowed correlation of this enzymatic activity with controlled changes of anatomical and physiological parameters. Changes of the renal hemodynamics or urinary flow induced in acute experiments in dogs simulated kidney displacement in nephroptotic patients. Both ureters were cannulated for separate urine collection and one kidney was manipulated. The renal arterial or venous flow was reduced or the ureter was occluded under electromagnetic blood-flow control. Arterial constriction alone (30%/15 min) selectively caused a drastic decrease (approximately 80%) of Xenon wash-out (= nutrient-flow) in the renal cortex. Under the same conditions radio-labeled microspheres injected intracardially showed a centralization of the renal capillary blood flow from the outer cortex to the juxtamedullary zone. Urinary LDH activities increased up to 800% immediately after arterial constriction. In accordance with total LDH activity the percentage distribution of isoenzymes changed: LDH-I increased and the LDH-V decreased. Neither constriction of the renal vein nor ureteral occlusion had similar effects. In long-term experiments backward fixation of one kidney in rats would reflect the effects of kidney displacement over years in nephroptotic patients: animals were unilaterally nephrectomized and the remaining kidney was dislocated backwards (approximately 2,5 vertebrae) and fixed to the lateral pelvic wall. \"Ptotic\" rats showed during the following examinations a constant increase of urinary LDH up to 50% by 26 weeks postoperatively. In accordance with increased LDH the isotope nephrogram was pathological and arteriographies showed a stretched and narrowed renal artery. In a number of rats \"ptotic\" fixation was not effective enough. All these animals showed normal LDH, isotope nephrograms and arteriographies. Both animal experiments documented that reduced flow/hypoxia is essentially responsible for the tissue damage in the kidney manifested by increased release of urinary LDH.", "PMID": 446069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7386", "title": "Urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) as an indicator of renal disease.", "content": "The automated fluorimetric assay of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) has proved to be of value in the detection of rejection in transplant patients and in monitoring the course of renal disease. The urine can be diluted prior to assay, due to the sensitivity of the fluorimetric method and this reduces the effect of endogenous inhibitors. Time consuming dialysis or gel filtration steps are therefore unnecessary. Results are available to the physician within hours of the collection of the urine sample, since factoring the enzyme activity by the creatinine concentration avoids the necessity of collecting twenty-four hour or timed urine samples. Over one hundred samples can be assayed in a day using the automated procedure. The excretion of NAG in normal individuals varies with age and the activity found in pathological samples should always be compared with age-matched controls. The development of a new series of colorimetric substrates has allowed the production of a simple 'Dipstick' which should be of value in the screening of at-risk populations for renal disease. The diagnostic potential of the estimation of urinary NAG activity is enhanced by the separation of its isoenzymic forms by ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose.", "contents": "Urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) as an indicator of renal disease. The automated fluorimetric assay of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) has proved to be of value in the detection of rejection in transplant patients and in monitoring the course of renal disease. The urine can be diluted prior to assay, due to the sensitivity of the fluorimetric method and this reduces the effect of endogenous inhibitors. Time consuming dialysis or gel filtration steps are therefore unnecessary. Results are available to the physician within hours of the collection of the urine sample, since factoring the enzyme activity by the creatinine concentration avoids the necessity of collecting twenty-four hour or timed urine samples. Over one hundred samples can be assayed in a day using the automated procedure. The excretion of NAG in normal individuals varies with age and the activity found in pathological samples should always be compared with age-matched controls. The development of a new series of colorimetric substrates has allowed the production of a simple 'Dipstick' which should be of value in the screening of at-risk populations for renal disease. The diagnostic potential of the estimation of urinary NAG activity is enhanced by the separation of its isoenzymic forms by ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose.", "PMID": 446070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7387", "title": "Comparative nephrotoxicity of gentamicin and netilmicin: functional and morphological correlations with urinary enzyme activities.", "content": "An increase in urinary enzyme activities reflected biopsy confirmed aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity (proximal tubular injury) before changes in blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, urinary osmolality and urinary protein excretion. Netilmicin, a semisynthetic derivative of gentamicin, was less nephrotoxic than gentamicin.", "contents": "Comparative nephrotoxicity of gentamicin and netilmicin: functional and morphological correlations with urinary enzyme activities. An increase in urinary enzyme activities reflected biopsy confirmed aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity (proximal tubular injury) before changes in blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, urinary osmolality and urinary protein excretion. Netilmicin, a semisynthetic derivative of gentamicin, was less nephrotoxic than gentamicin.", "PMID": 446071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7388", "title": "Tubular-toxic effects of aminoglycosides and their combinations with cephalosporins.", "content": "Cephalosporins have a distinctly different effect from that of aminoglycosides on membranes of the proximal tubule of the human kidney as measured by urinary AAP concentrations. Except for a slight influence by cephacetrile, cephalosporins showed no effect on the proximal tubule. In contrast, after three days of administration, the aminoglycosides caused a cumulative increase in membrane proteins of the proximal tubule to be excreted in the urine. Tobramycin appears to have the least and amikacin the greatest effect on the brush border membranes of the proximal tubule of the normal human kidney. The combination of cephalosporins with aminoglycosides increases the potential toxic effect on the proximal tubule.", "contents": "Tubular-toxic effects of aminoglycosides and their combinations with cephalosporins. Cephalosporins have a distinctly different effect from that of aminoglycosides on membranes of the proximal tubule of the human kidney as measured by urinary AAP concentrations. Except for a slight influence by cephacetrile, cephalosporins showed no effect on the proximal tubule. In contrast, after three days of administration, the aminoglycosides caused a cumulative increase in membrane proteins of the proximal tubule to be excreted in the urine. Tobramycin appears to have the least and amikacin the greatest effect on the brush border membranes of the proximal tubule of the normal human kidney. The combination of cephalosporins with aminoglycosides increases the potential toxic effect on the proximal tubule.", "PMID": 446072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7389", "title": "Clinical relevance of different electrophoretic methods for the analysis of urinary proteins.", "content": "Three electrophoretic techniques are usually available in the clinical laboratories for the qualitative investigation of urinary protein patterns: 1) acetate cellulose, 2) immuno-electrophoresis; and 3) SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Proteinuria (the excretion of proteins in excess of 150 mg/day or 100 microgram/min) usually signifies either increased permeability of the glomerular-capillary membrane of diminished tubular reabsorption. Since glomerular disease is associated with an increased clearance of albumin and higher molecular weight proteins, whereas tubular damage is associated with the predominant excretion of proteins of lower molecular weight than albumin, it seems logical to establish a classification of proteinuria according to the molecular weight of its constituents. One can thus basically distinguish 5 types of proteinurias: 1) physiological; 2) tubular; 3) selective glomerular; 4) non selective glomerular; and 5) mixed proteinurias. Additionally one must distinguish \"myeloma proteinurias\" where monoclonal complete or incomplete gamma-globulins are found in the urine. Clinically it may be useful to determine the qualitatively normal or pathologic character of a quantitatively normal proteinuria, especially in the following conditions: 1) for early diagnosis of nephropathy in patients, such as diabetics, which are particularly prone to suffer from renal complications; 2) to confirm the clinical cure or to predict the recurrence of renal diseases; and 3) in such situations as orthostatic, or myeloma proteinuria, or any elevation of the urinary protein output of unknown etiology.", "contents": "Clinical relevance of different electrophoretic methods for the analysis of urinary proteins. Three electrophoretic techniques are usually available in the clinical laboratories for the qualitative investigation of urinary protein patterns: 1) acetate cellulose, 2) immuno-electrophoresis; and 3) SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Proteinuria (the excretion of proteins in excess of 150 mg/day or 100 microgram/min) usually signifies either increased permeability of the glomerular-capillary membrane of diminished tubular reabsorption. Since glomerular disease is associated with an increased clearance of albumin and higher molecular weight proteins, whereas tubular damage is associated with the predominant excretion of proteins of lower molecular weight than albumin, it seems logical to establish a classification of proteinuria according to the molecular weight of its constituents. One can thus basically distinguish 5 types of proteinurias: 1) physiological; 2) tubular; 3) selective glomerular; 4) non selective glomerular; and 5) mixed proteinurias. Additionally one must distinguish \"myeloma proteinurias\" where monoclonal complete or incomplete gamma-globulins are found in the urine. Clinically it may be useful to determine the qualitatively normal or pathologic character of a quantitatively normal proteinuria, especially in the following conditions: 1) for early diagnosis of nephropathy in patients, such as diabetics, which are particularly prone to suffer from renal complications; 2) to confirm the clinical cure or to predict the recurrence of renal diseases; and 3) in such situations as orthostatic, or myeloma proteinuria, or any elevation of the urinary protein output of unknown etiology.", "PMID": 446073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7390", "title": "Preparation of urine for enzyme determinations by gel filtration.", "content": "The activities of several enzymes in urine are masked by the presence of interfering substances in native urine. From several methods proposed for the removal of low molecular mass interferences dilution, dialysis, gel filtration, and ultrafiltration have been successfully applied. Gel filtration seems to be of these most suitable. I is effective, accurate, precise and economical. Scale-down procedures provide for acceptable speed. By this method the complete separation of lactate dehydrogenase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, arylsulphatase A, alpha-glucosidase, beta-galactosidase, trehalase, N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucuronidase and leucine arylamidase from low molecular mass substances, e.g. a heat-stable, competitive inhibitor of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase was possible. The preparation and determination of urinary enzymes should be thoroughly standardized and controlled. Acceptable precision (coefficient of variation less than 10% between-day) can be achieved with manual spectrophotometric methods.", "contents": "Preparation of urine for enzyme determinations by gel filtration. The activities of several enzymes in urine are masked by the presence of interfering substances in native urine. From several methods proposed for the removal of low molecular mass interferences dilution, dialysis, gel filtration, and ultrafiltration have been successfully applied. Gel filtration seems to be of these most suitable. I is effective, accurate, precise and economical. Scale-down procedures provide for acceptable speed. By this method the complete separation of lactate dehydrogenase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, arylsulphatase A, alpha-glucosidase, beta-galactosidase, trehalase, N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucuronidase and leucine arylamidase from low molecular mass substances, e.g. a heat-stable, competitive inhibitor of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase was possible. The preparation and determination of urinary enzymes should be thoroughly standardized and controlled. Acceptable precision (coefficient of variation less than 10% between-day) can be achieved with manual spectrophotometric methods.", "PMID": 446074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7391", "title": "Diagnostic significance of SDS-PAA-electrophoresis of urinary proteins: different forms of proteinuria and their correlation to renal diseases.", "content": "Different types of urinary protein excretion may be recognized by determination of the proteins molecular weight. Beside chromatography different electrophoretic procedures have been applied to urinary proteins to study the underlying renal disease. The various zone electrophoreses separate merely by surface charge, proteins however covered by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) migrate according to their molecular radius. So by SDS-polyacrylamide electrophoresis (SDS-PAe) macromolecular proteinurias (Mr 60,000- greater than 300,000 daltons) due to glomerular damage may be distinguished from micromolecular forms (Mr 10,000-70,000 d) due to tubular dysfunction. By densitometric quantitation of the separated Ig and transferrin an index of the glomerular selectivity is obtained, i.e. the capacity of the glomerular system, to retain serum proteins of a Mr above 150,000 d. By this procedure proliferative and degenerative glomerulopathies may be distinguished from minimal change disease, focal glomerular sclerosis and early membranous nephropathy; serial determinations of this selectivity index in the latter two disease entities show a gradual deterioration of glomerular protein handling with time. A glomerular proteinuria of even \"physiological\" quantity has been proved as early sign of renal involvment in systemic diseases; it may be detected earlier as for example the retinopathy in juvenile diabetics. Micromolecular proteinurias also occur at least in two forms: the typical tubular proteinuria (MW 10,000-70,000 d) is associated with acute or chronic severe tubular dysfunction as in interstitial nephritis and acute kidney failure; rejection episodes of kidney transplants lead to transient tubular proteinurias, too. The second form of micromolecular proteinuria (Mr 40,000-70,000 d) has been found frequently in association with a glomerular in diabetic and hypertensive glomerulosclerosis. By measuring clearances of the microproteins, the proteinuria with this pattern could be established as form independant from glomerular and tubular proteinurias. The constancy of the two micromolecular proteinurias led to the hypothesis of at least two selective mechanism of tubular protein resorption. SDS-PAe additionally allows the differentiation of extrarenal proteinurias, as caused by overflow, paraproteins, postrenal Ig-secretion or bleeding etc. In comparing clinical and in part histological data of about 2,000 patients suffering from kidney diseases the analysis of urinary proteins by this method has been proved as valuable non-invasive tool for diagnosis and follow-up.", "contents": "Diagnostic significance of SDS-PAA-electrophoresis of urinary proteins: different forms of proteinuria and their correlation to renal diseases. Different types of urinary protein excretion may be recognized by determination of the proteins molecular weight. Beside chromatography different electrophoretic procedures have been applied to urinary proteins to study the underlying renal disease. The various zone electrophoreses separate merely by surface charge, proteins however covered by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) migrate according to their molecular radius. So by SDS-polyacrylamide electrophoresis (SDS-PAe) macromolecular proteinurias (Mr 60,000- greater than 300,000 daltons) due to glomerular damage may be distinguished from micromolecular forms (Mr 10,000-70,000 d) due to tubular dysfunction. By densitometric quantitation of the separated Ig and transferrin an index of the glomerular selectivity is obtained, i.e. the capacity of the glomerular system, to retain serum proteins of a Mr above 150,000 d. By this procedure proliferative and degenerative glomerulopathies may be distinguished from minimal change disease, focal glomerular sclerosis and early membranous nephropathy; serial determinations of this selectivity index in the latter two disease entities show a gradual deterioration of glomerular protein handling with time. A glomerular proteinuria of even \"physiological\" quantity has been proved as early sign of renal involvment in systemic diseases; it may be detected earlier as for example the retinopathy in juvenile diabetics. Micromolecular proteinurias also occur at least in two forms: the typical tubular proteinuria (MW 10,000-70,000 d) is associated with acute or chronic severe tubular dysfunction as in interstitial nephritis and acute kidney failure; rejection episodes of kidney transplants lead to transient tubular proteinurias, too. The second form of micromolecular proteinuria (Mr 40,000-70,000 d) has been found frequently in association with a glomerular in diabetic and hypertensive glomerulosclerosis. By measuring clearances of the microproteins, the proteinuria with this pattern could be established as form independant from glomerular and tubular proteinurias. The constancy of the two micromolecular proteinurias led to the hypothesis of at least two selective mechanism of tubular protein resorption. SDS-PAe additionally allows the differentiation of extrarenal proteinurias, as caused by overflow, paraproteins, postrenal Ig-secretion or bleeding etc. In comparing clinical and in part histological data of about 2,000 patients suffering from kidney diseases the analysis of urinary proteins by this method has been proved as valuable non-invasive tool for diagnosis and follow-up.", "PMID": 446075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7392", "title": "Urinary hydroxyproline in healthy patients and in prostate patients with and without bone metastases.", "content": "An essential part of the classification of prostate carcinoma is the diagnosis of bone metastases. This was done with 70 patients using x-ray analysis, scintography, determination of the acid and alkaline phosphatase, and pelvic crest biopsy, as well as aspiration of the pelvic and sternal bone marrow. In addition, the hydroxyproline concentration was determined in the 24-hour-urine. The study, which was initially undertaken on a sample group (n = 145), yielded a high correlation between age and sex and hydroxyproline values. Women before menopause show significantly lower values than do men of the same age. The data on patients with prostata cancer (n = 70) showed that patients with and without bone metastases, who had been treated with estrogens, had a significantly lower quantity of hydroxyproline than did patients who had not received estrogen therapy. Patients with skeletal metastases (n = 24) showed significantly higher hydroxyproline excretion in the urine than did those with prostate cancer without metastases, or healthy men of the same age (n = 35). Comparison of the results of hydroxyproline determination with the other diagnostic methods for demonstrating bone metastases showed that hydroxyproline determination was diagnostically on par with the scintigram. Pelvic crest biopsy, pelvic and sternal marrow aspiration can be considered valuable supplementary diagnostic procedures.", "contents": "Urinary hydroxyproline in healthy patients and in prostate patients with and without bone metastases. An essential part of the classification of prostate carcinoma is the diagnosis of bone metastases. This was done with 70 patients using x-ray analysis, scintography, determination of the acid and alkaline phosphatase, and pelvic crest biopsy, as well as aspiration of the pelvic and sternal bone marrow. In addition, the hydroxyproline concentration was determined in the 24-hour-urine. The study, which was initially undertaken on a sample group (n = 145), yielded a high correlation between age and sex and hydroxyproline values. Women before menopause show significantly lower values than do men of the same age. The data on patients with prostata cancer (n = 70) showed that patients with and without bone metastases, who had been treated with estrogens, had a significantly lower quantity of hydroxyproline than did patients who had not received estrogen therapy. Patients with skeletal metastases (n = 24) showed significantly higher hydroxyproline excretion in the urine than did those with prostate cancer without metastases, or healthy men of the same age (n = 35). Comparison of the results of hydroxyproline determination with the other diagnostic methods for demonstrating bone metastases showed that hydroxyproline determination was diagnostically on par with the scintigram. Pelvic crest biopsy, pelvic and sternal marrow aspiration can be considered valuable supplementary diagnostic procedures.", "PMID": 446076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7393", "title": "Nephrotoxicity of low molecular weight serum proteins: physicochemical interactions between myoglobin, hemoglobin, bence-jones proteins and tamm-horsfall mucoprotein.", "content": "Three types of low molecular weight serum proteins, myoglobin, hemoglobin and BENCE-JONES proteins, are associated clinically with acute renal failure. All have isoelectric points which render them anionic at blood pH but cationic in the distal nephron under conditions of aciduria. Experiments in which these proteins were mixed with TAMM-HORSFALL mucoprotein in vitro and the pH lowered with lN HCl showed co-precipitation of proteins at pH levels of 5.5 and below. In vivo experiments in which 11 different BENCE-JONES proteins of pl ranging from 5.2 to 6.6 were injected into aciduric, hydropenic rats showed an acute rise in serum urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations with BENCE-JONES proteins of pl greater than 5.7 compared with little change in rats injected with BENCE-JONES proteins of pl less than 5.7. These data suggest that protein pl and urine pH are important in determining nephrotoxicity; a mechanism by which these low molecular weight serum proteins and TAMM-HORSFALL proteins interact in the distal nephron to initiate acute renal failure in postulated.", "contents": "Nephrotoxicity of low molecular weight serum proteins: physicochemical interactions between myoglobin, hemoglobin, bence-jones proteins and tamm-horsfall mucoprotein. Three types of low molecular weight serum proteins, myoglobin, hemoglobin and BENCE-JONES proteins, are associated clinically with acute renal failure. All have isoelectric points which render them anionic at blood pH but cationic in the distal nephron under conditions of aciduria. Experiments in which these proteins were mixed with TAMM-HORSFALL mucoprotein in vitro and the pH lowered with lN HCl showed co-precipitation of proteins at pH levels of 5.5 and below. In vivo experiments in which 11 different BENCE-JONES proteins of pl ranging from 5.2 to 6.6 were injected into aciduric, hydropenic rats showed an acute rise in serum urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations with BENCE-JONES proteins of pl greater than 5.7 compared with little change in rats injected with BENCE-JONES proteins of pl less than 5.7. These data suggest that protein pl and urine pH are important in determining nephrotoxicity; a mechanism by which these low molecular weight serum proteins and TAMM-HORSFALL proteins interact in the distal nephron to initiate acute renal failure in postulated.", "PMID": 446077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7394", "title": "Uromucoid excretion in normal individuals and stone formers.", "content": "A quantitative immunological determination of uromucoid according to Laurell's method has been established. The average excretion rate of this glycoprotein in normal individuals was found to be 51.1 +/- 5 mg/24 hours. The uromucoid excretion in patients with calcium-oxalate, calcium-phosphate and cystine stones showed no significant change. In patients with urate stones and those with renal tubular acidosis a significant decrease in uromucoid excretion was found. Localization of uromucoid was found to be in the cells of the distal tubular section and the collecting tubules which was verified by immunincubation with FITC conjugated antihumanuromucoid globuline.", "contents": "Uromucoid excretion in normal individuals and stone formers. A quantitative immunological determination of uromucoid according to Laurell's method has been established. The average excretion rate of this glycoprotein in normal individuals was found to be 51.1 +/- 5 mg/24 hours. The uromucoid excretion in patients with calcium-oxalate, calcium-phosphate and cystine stones showed no significant change. In patients with urate stones and those with renal tubular acidosis a significant decrease in uromucoid excretion was found. Localization of uromucoid was found to be in the cells of the distal tubular section and the collecting tubules which was verified by immunincubation with FITC conjugated antihumanuromucoid globuline.", "PMID": 446078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7395", "title": "Immunotitration of alkaline phosphatase isozymes in normal and pathological urine.", "content": "Isoenzyme patterns of alkaline phosphatase are determined quantitatively in extracts of human kidney as well as in human urine by means of immunotitration technique. Both media contain two types of AP isoenzymes: liver and intestinal like AP. Intestinal AP is located as a minor component of total AP activity (1-4%) in particle-free fraction of the kidney. Urinary AP activity is found after high speed centrifugation in supernatant (100,000 Xg) as well as in the 100,000 Xg sediment and can only be made soluble from the latter by n-butanol treatment. Intestinal AP in urine is concentrated in the supernatant while in sediment the isoenzyme pattern resembles to that of kidney. Urine of normal persons contains most of AP activity in the sediment and consists mainly of liver type AP. Urinary AP of patients with renal diseases or after application of cytotoxins contains little sedimentable activity, mainly intestinal AP.", "contents": "Immunotitration of alkaline phosphatase isozymes in normal and pathological urine. Isoenzyme patterns of alkaline phosphatase are determined quantitatively in extracts of human kidney as well as in human urine by means of immunotitration technique. Both media contain two types of AP isoenzymes: liver and intestinal like AP. Intestinal AP is located as a minor component of total AP activity (1-4%) in particle-free fraction of the kidney. Urinary AP activity is found after high speed centrifugation in supernatant (100,000 Xg) as well as in the 100,000 Xg sediment and can only be made soluble from the latter by n-butanol treatment. Intestinal AP in urine is concentrated in the supernatant while in sediment the isoenzyme pattern resembles to that of kidney. Urine of normal persons contains most of AP activity in the sediment and consists mainly of liver type AP. Urinary AP of patients with renal diseases or after application of cytotoxins contains little sedimentable activity, mainly intestinal AP.", "PMID": 446079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7396", "title": "The powerful urinary procoagulant and its relation to renal diseases.", "content": "Human urine and urine of various animals contains a powerful procoagulant which converts prothrombin in presence of factors V, VII, X, and phospholipids or thrombocytes into thrombin. In human beings its content of the urine is markedly reduced or totally absent in kidney diseases, but normal in hemophilic patients. Only 0.2 ml urine are required for its assessment. In experimental kidney diseases in rabbits and rats there is an inverse relationship between procoagulant and protein excretion. In the test tube 1 part of urine corrects the clotting of 5-10 parts of hemophilic plasma, even in the presence of very strong coagulation inhibitors.", "contents": "The powerful urinary procoagulant and its relation to renal diseases. Human urine and urine of various animals contains a powerful procoagulant which converts prothrombin in presence of factors V, VII, X, and phospholipids or thrombocytes into thrombin. In human beings its content of the urine is markedly reduced or totally absent in kidney diseases, but normal in hemophilic patients. Only 0.2 ml urine are required for its assessment. In experimental kidney diseases in rabbits and rats there is an inverse relationship between procoagulant and protein excretion. In the test tube 1 part of urine corrects the clotting of 5-10 parts of hemophilic plasma, even in the presence of very strong coagulation inhibitors.", "PMID": 446080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7397", "title": "Influence of human urine on phagocytosis.", "content": "Human urine may inhibit or activate the phagocytosis by normal human blood of latex, zymosan and inuline. No specific difference was found between the urine of normals and patients with moderate, severe or end stage renal failure. The inhibiting effect was not due to urea or creatinine; the assumption is made that a middle molecular fraction D, which can be isolated by Sephadex G 15 columnchromatography from uraemic ultrafiltrate, is responsible for the observed inhibition. Urines of patients with significant bacteriuria were more frequently activating.", "contents": "Influence of human urine on phagocytosis. Human urine may inhibit or activate the phagocytosis by normal human blood of latex, zymosan and inuline. No specific difference was found between the urine of normals and patients with moderate, severe or end stage renal failure. The inhibiting effect was not due to urea or creatinine; the assumption is made that a middle molecular fraction D, which can be isolated by Sephadex G 15 columnchromatography from uraemic ultrafiltrate, is responsible for the observed inhibition. Urines of patients with significant bacteriuria were more frequently activating.", "PMID": 446081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7398", "title": "Sialidosis, a new type of inborn disease.", "content": "We describe the biochemical findings concerning five different types of mucolipidosis which have been defined as sialidosis on the basis of the specific enzyme deficiency and the nature of the storage material.", "contents": "Sialidosis, a new type of inborn disease. We describe the biochemical findings concerning five different types of mucolipidosis which have been defined as sialidosis on the basis of the specific enzyme deficiency and the nature of the storage material.", "PMID": 446083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7399", "title": "Diagnostic relevance of urinary lactate dehydrogenase determination in nephroptosis and for the indication to nephropexy.", "content": "Previously reported experiments with animals suggested that reduced renal arterial flow might be the actual cause for the pathogenicity of nephroptosis. Clinical studies now give evidence that measurements of urinary LDH may be a criterion equal to the isotope nephrogram (ING) in considering this disease. Patients with a \"mobile\" kidney verified by i.v. pyelography were examined by an ING and a 1-day test for urinary LDH. In accordance with periodic kidney displacement total urinary LDH activities were measured in a 8-h urine volume in the supine position and a 8-h urine volume in the erect position of the patients. Evaluations were all expressed as percentage increase of LDH activity of the patient in the erect versus supine position and correlated with his ING-pattern. Among 45 nephroptotic individuals 34 showed, in accordance with a pathological ING, a mean LDH increase of more than a 100%. Eleven individuals had normal INGs and less than 20% increase equal to a group of 16 normal controls. We postulated a 30% increase as the upper limit between normal and pathological urinary LDH. The percentage distribution of isoenzymes was also altered within the pathological LDH range: LDH-I, which increases in normal controls, now decreased in nephroptotic patients. LDH-IV and V, which decrease in controls, now increased. Homomeric isoenzymes obviously show reciprocal behavior. The degree of kidney descent in cm does not correlate with percentage increase of urinary LDH, i.e. it is not a criterion for pathogenicity. Biopsies taken during nephropexy revealed that from an anamnestic duration of 50 weeks onwards the kidney is significantly affected and tissue damages become evident. If patients were re-investigated after nephropexy they showed normal i.v. pyelograms and normal LDH and no longer had clinical symptoms.", "contents": "Diagnostic relevance of urinary lactate dehydrogenase determination in nephroptosis and for the indication to nephropexy. Previously reported experiments with animals suggested that reduced renal arterial flow might be the actual cause for the pathogenicity of nephroptosis. Clinical studies now give evidence that measurements of urinary LDH may be a criterion equal to the isotope nephrogram (ING) in considering this disease. Patients with a \"mobile\" kidney verified by i.v. pyelography were examined by an ING and a 1-day test for urinary LDH. In accordance with periodic kidney displacement total urinary LDH activities were measured in a 8-h urine volume in the supine position and a 8-h urine volume in the erect position of the patients. Evaluations were all expressed as percentage increase of LDH activity of the patient in the erect versus supine position and correlated with his ING-pattern. Among 45 nephroptotic individuals 34 showed, in accordance with a pathological ING, a mean LDH increase of more than a 100%. Eleven individuals had normal INGs and less than 20% increase equal to a group of 16 normal controls. We postulated a 30% increase as the upper limit between normal and pathological urinary LDH. The percentage distribution of isoenzymes was also altered within the pathological LDH range: LDH-I, which increases in normal controls, now decreased in nephroptotic patients. LDH-IV and V, which decrease in controls, now increased. Homomeric isoenzymes obviously show reciprocal behavior. The degree of kidney descent in cm does not correlate with percentage increase of urinary LDH, i.e. it is not a criterion for pathogenicity. Biopsies taken during nephropexy revealed that from an anamnestic duration of 50 weeks onwards the kidney is significantly affected and tissue damages become evident. If patients were re-investigated after nephropexy they showed normal i.v. pyelograms and normal LDH and no longer had clinical symptoms.", "PMID": 446085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7400", "title": "Diagnosis of renal disorders: comparison of urinary enzyme patterns with corresponding tissue patterns.", "content": "The goal of our study was: 1. To determine the urinary enzyme pattern from urine, taken by ureteral catheterization from the side of the renal disorder, and to compare it with the pattern from the healthy side of the same patient. 2. To compare the enzyme patterns of normal and tumor tissues with the corresponding urinary enzyme patterns.", "contents": "Diagnosis of renal disorders: comparison of urinary enzyme patterns with corresponding tissue patterns. The goal of our study was: 1. To determine the urinary enzyme pattern from urine, taken by ureteral catheterization from the side of the renal disorder, and to compare it with the pattern from the healthy side of the same patient. 2. To compare the enzyme patterns of normal and tumor tissues with the corresponding urinary enzyme patterns.", "PMID": 446086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7401", "title": "The sensitivity of urinary enzyme measurements for detecting renal injury.", "content": "The relative sensitivity of urinary enzyme measurements for detecting renal damage was determined for two nephrotoxins. Injection of a single dose of sodium phosphate (10 mmoles/kg) caused damage to the proximal tubules and led to a 15 fold increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity excreted into the urine. In contrast to this change the serum LDH remained normal. Similar results were obtained following the injection of cephaloridine (2 g/kg) with an 18 fold increase in urinary LDH and a marginal increase in urinary glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). By contrast the serum LDH was unchanged. Urinary enzymes are therefore more sensitive for detecting renal injury than enzymes. The four enzymes investigated are located in specific regions of the cell so that the involvement of the organelles and regions of the cell can be followed. Damage to the organelles does not appear to occur as the excretion of the lysosomal enzymes remained normal and only in the case of cephaloridine were marginal changes in the mitochondrial GDH excretion seen. The average alkaline phosphatase was also normal suggesting no gross damage to the plasma membrane although a few individual rats excreted abnormal activities of alkaline phosphatase. These rats however, also excreted high activities of LDH. This suggests that damage to the membrane causes leakage of LDH and in severe cases release of the plasma membrane enzyme alkaline phosphatase. The administration of cephaloridine at various doses showed that urinary enzyme measurements were as sensitive as histology for demonstrating renal damage and that of these enzymes, LDH was by far the most useful.", "contents": "The sensitivity of urinary enzyme measurements for detecting renal injury. The relative sensitivity of urinary enzyme measurements for detecting renal damage was determined for two nephrotoxins. Injection of a single dose of sodium phosphate (10 mmoles/kg) caused damage to the proximal tubules and led to a 15 fold increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity excreted into the urine. In contrast to this change the serum LDH remained normal. Similar results were obtained following the injection of cephaloridine (2 g/kg) with an 18 fold increase in urinary LDH and a marginal increase in urinary glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). By contrast the serum LDH was unchanged. Urinary enzymes are therefore more sensitive for detecting renal injury than enzymes. The four enzymes investigated are located in specific regions of the cell so that the involvement of the organelles and regions of the cell can be followed. Damage to the organelles does not appear to occur as the excretion of the lysosomal enzymes remained normal and only in the case of cephaloridine were marginal changes in the mitochondrial GDH excretion seen. The average alkaline phosphatase was also normal suggesting no gross damage to the plasma membrane although a few individual rats excreted abnormal activities of alkaline phosphatase. These rats however, also excreted high activities of LDH. This suggests that damage to the membrane causes leakage of LDH and in severe cases release of the plasma membrane enzyme alkaline phosphatase. The administration of cephaloridine at various doses showed that urinary enzyme measurements were as sensitive as histology for demonstrating renal damage and that of these enzymes, LDH was by far the most useful.", "PMID": 446087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7402", "title": "Relevance of enzyme evaluations in 24h urine to rat kidney injury caused by i.v. cephaloridine injection.", "content": "Male rats were housed singly in metabolic cages, injected i.v. with cephaloridine, 24 h urine samples collected successively; then the rats were killed for obtaining the kidneys of corresponding animals. The concentrations of protein, aminopeptidase (AP), alkaline phosphatase (aPP), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and aldolase (ALD) were determined in urine and the percentages of injured proximal tubules counted in sections stained for aPP. The results from individual animals were: (1) After placing animals singly in metabolic cages large but not systematic changes of urinary enzyme concentrations occurred. After 6-10 days the enzymes reached steady state levels. (2) After a single injection of cephaloridine a dose dependent injury of proximal tubules was observed, the urinary LDH content correlating best with the tubular injury (r greater than 0.93) and giving up to 1,000 fold increases above normal values. (3) A circadian rhythm of the susceptibility of rat kidney for cephaloridine was observed, the smallest response was seen when the animals were injected at 7 a.m. and the largest after injection at 7 p.m. (4) In subacute toxicity studies urinary LDH was increased on day 2 above the extent after a single dose, but declined on day 3 to reach normal levels after 8 to 10 days (time of sacrifice). The kidneys revealed practically normal histology. The other enzymes studied had also returned to normal values. This indicates some adaptation mechanism.", "contents": "Relevance of enzyme evaluations in 24h urine to rat kidney injury caused by i.v. cephaloridine injection. Male rats were housed singly in metabolic cages, injected i.v. with cephaloridine, 24 h urine samples collected successively; then the rats were killed for obtaining the kidneys of corresponding animals. The concentrations of protein, aminopeptidase (AP), alkaline phosphatase (aPP), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and aldolase (ALD) were determined in urine and the percentages of injured proximal tubules counted in sections stained for aPP. The results from individual animals were: (1) After placing animals singly in metabolic cages large but not systematic changes of urinary enzyme concentrations occurred. After 6-10 days the enzymes reached steady state levels. (2) After a single injection of cephaloridine a dose dependent injury of proximal tubules was observed, the urinary LDH content correlating best with the tubular injury (r greater than 0.93) and giving up to 1,000 fold increases above normal values. (3) A circadian rhythm of the susceptibility of rat kidney for cephaloridine was observed, the smallest response was seen when the animals were injected at 7 a.m. and the largest after injection at 7 p.m. (4) In subacute toxicity studies urinary LDH was increased on day 2 above the extent after a single dose, but declined on day 3 to reach normal levels after 8 to 10 days (time of sacrifice). The kidneys revealed practically normal histology. The other enzymes studied had also returned to normal values. This indicates some adaptation mechanism.", "PMID": 446088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7403", "title": "Cytogenetics of somatic cell hybrids. I. Progression of stemlines in continuous uncloned cultures of man-mouse cell hybrids.", "content": "Karyotypes of hybrid cells were studied in continuous uncloned cultures by Q- and C-bandings. Cultures were initiated by virus-mediated or spontaneous cell fusions from normal human diploid fibroblasts and mouse heteroploid RAG cells. Heterokaryons containing complete genomes of both parental cells randomly lost chromosomes from both species. The majority of cells in early growth stages, however, still possessed a nearly complete human genome. The rate of human chromosome loss in subsequent growth periods was not uniform, being gradual in some and rapid in others. The initially predominant 2n human-1s mouse (1h:1m) type was soon replaced by a less frequent 2n human-2s mouse (1h:2m) type. Over an increased period of time in mass culture, the number of stemlines decreased. One stemline, often a (1h:2m) type with a greatly reduced human complement, outgrew the others and occupied the entire culture. Therefore, the usual process of clonal isolation may confer a negative selection bias against cell hybrids retaining a large number of human chromosomes. Hybrid stemlines with stable karyotypes were established in the present HAT-agar selection system before 36 days after fusion had elapsed.", "contents": "Cytogenetics of somatic cell hybrids. I. Progression of stemlines in continuous uncloned cultures of man-mouse cell hybrids. Karyotypes of hybrid cells were studied in continuous uncloned cultures by Q- and C-bandings. Cultures were initiated by virus-mediated or spontaneous cell fusions from normal human diploid fibroblasts and mouse heteroploid RAG cells. Heterokaryons containing complete genomes of both parental cells randomly lost chromosomes from both species. The majority of cells in early growth stages, however, still possessed a nearly complete human genome. The rate of human chromosome loss in subsequent growth periods was not uniform, being gradual in some and rapid in others. The initially predominant 2n human-1s mouse (1h:1m) type was soon replaced by a less frequent 2n human-2s mouse (1h:2m) type. Over an increased period of time in mass culture, the number of stemlines decreased. One stemline, often a (1h:2m) type with a greatly reduced human complement, outgrew the others and occupied the entire culture. Therefore, the usual process of clonal isolation may confer a negative selection bias against cell hybrids retaining a large number of human chromosomes. Hybrid stemlines with stable karyotypes were established in the present HAT-agar selection system before 36 days after fusion had elapsed.", "PMID": 446093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7404", "title": "Chromosome markers in 12 inbred strains of the Norway rat, Rattus norvegicus.", "content": "Morphological details of metaphase chromosomes were compared among 12 inbred strains of rats (Rattus norvegicus) by means of conventional Giemsa staining and by a sequential Q- and C-banding method. Inter-strain variations were found in seven pairs, as identified on the basis of size differences in the short arms and/or satellites of chromosomes 3 and 12 and the X chromosome and in the centromeric C-bands of chromosomes 4, 5, 7, and 9. All pairs were homomorphic in the inbred strains, while F1 hybrids between two inbred strains showed certain heteromorphic pairs expected from the parents. These chromosome markers appear to be useful for characterization of inbred strains as well as for various genetic studies, including linkage analyses.", "contents": "Chromosome markers in 12 inbred strains of the Norway rat, Rattus norvegicus. Morphological details of metaphase chromosomes were compared among 12 inbred strains of rats (Rattus norvegicus) by means of conventional Giemsa staining and by a sequential Q- and C-banding method. Inter-strain variations were found in seven pairs, as identified on the basis of size differences in the short arms and/or satellites of chromosomes 3 and 12 and the X chromosome and in the centromeric C-bands of chromosomes 4, 5, 7, and 9. All pairs were homomorphic in the inbred strains, while F1 hybrids between two inbred strains showed certain heteromorphic pairs expected from the parents. These chromosome markers appear to be useful for characterization of inbred strains as well as for various genetic studies, including linkage analyses.", "PMID": 446094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7405", "title": "New karyotypes and somatic and germ-cell banding in Akodon arviculoides (Rodentia, Cricetidae).", "content": "Chromosomal polymorphism resulting from three autosomal pericentric inversions and a complex rearrangement involving the largest chromosome of the complement (pair 1) in Akodon arviculoides (2n= 14, 15) is reported. G- and C-banding patterns in somatic and meiotic cells allowed the precise identification of all chromosomes and rearrangements. In meiosis of male specimens with 2n = 15, a large trivalent reflecting the complex rearrangement in autosomal pair 1 was observed. Two possible explanations for it are discussed. G- and C-bands in diplotene cells in heterozygotes for the inversions showed different configurations depending on the pairing in the inverted segments. Chiasma frequency data fro three specimens are analyzed.", "contents": "New karyotypes and somatic and germ-cell banding in Akodon arviculoides (Rodentia, Cricetidae). Chromosomal polymorphism resulting from three autosomal pericentric inversions and a complex rearrangement involving the largest chromosome of the complement (pair 1) in Akodon arviculoides (2n= 14, 15) is reported. G- and C-banding patterns in somatic and meiotic cells allowed the precise identification of all chromosomes and rearrangements. In meiosis of male specimens with 2n = 15, a large trivalent reflecting the complex rearrangement in autosomal pair 1 was observed. Two possible explanations for it are discussed. G- and C-bands in diplotene cells in heterozygotes for the inversions showed different configurations depending on the pairing in the inverted segments. Chiasma frequency data fro three specimens are analyzed.", "PMID": 446095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7406", "title": "Colinearity in the mouse genome: a study of chromosome 2.", "content": "The cytologic positions (determined by G-banding) of the breakpoints on mouse chromosome 2 of a series of ten reciprocal translocations were compared with their most probable genetic positions on the linkage map, as determined by studies on recombination with known chromosome 2 (= linkage group V) markers. The most probable proximaldistal orders of the genetic and cytologic breakpoints were found to be the same; i.e., the two sets of breakpoints were colinear. However, there was no close correspondence between these two measures of the distance apart of adjacent breakpoints, since some translocation breaks which were well separated in G-band positions seemed close together in terms of the linkage map, and vice versa. This helps to confirm LYON'S conclusion that in certain mouse chromosomes, including No. 2, the distribution of chiasmata is nonrandom.", "contents": "Colinearity in the mouse genome: a study of chromosome 2. The cytologic positions (determined by G-banding) of the breakpoints on mouse chromosome 2 of a series of ten reciprocal translocations were compared with their most probable genetic positions on the linkage map, as determined by studies on recombination with known chromosome 2 (= linkage group V) markers. The most probable proximaldistal orders of the genetic and cytologic breakpoints were found to be the same; i.e., the two sets of breakpoints were colinear. However, there was no close correspondence between these two measures of the distance apart of adjacent breakpoints, since some translocation breaks which were well separated in G-band positions seemed close together in terms of the linkage map, and vice versa. This helps to confirm LYON'S conclusion that in certain mouse chromosomes, including No. 2, the distribution of chiasmata is nonrandom.", "PMID": 446096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7407", "title": "Upper airways obstruction with bilateral vocal cord paralysis.", "content": "In ten patients with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, we demonstrated variable extrathoracic airway obstruction. The ratio of forced expiratory flow at 50 percent vital capacity to forced inspiratory flow at the same lung volume (VE50/VI50) was 1.65 +/- 0.77 (mean +/- 1 SD). There was marked variability of inspiratory flow obstruction with a mean VI50 of 1.63 +/- 0.75 liters/ sec and a range from 0.9 liters/sec to 3.2 liters/sec. Nine of the ten patients required tracheostomy for symptoms of dyspnea. Follow-up flow volume loops were obtained to document the effects of surgical intervention and tracheostomy.", "contents": "Upper airways obstruction with bilateral vocal cord paralysis. In ten patients with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, we demonstrated variable extrathoracic airway obstruction. The ratio of forced expiratory flow at 50 percent vital capacity to forced inspiratory flow at the same lung volume (VE50/VI50) was 1.65 +/- 0.77 (mean +/- 1 SD). There was marked variability of inspiratory flow obstruction with a mean VI50 of 1.63 +/- 0.75 liters/ sec and a range from 0.9 liters/sec to 3.2 liters/sec. Nine of the ten patients required tracheostomy for symptoms of dyspnea. Follow-up flow volume loops were obtained to document the effects of surgical intervention and tracheostomy.", "PMID": 446128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7408", "title": "Echocardiographic profiles of the long-term cardiac changes in cystic fibrosis.", "content": "In this echocardiographic study, assessment of the heart in children with cystic fibrosis has shown that changes occur in not only the right ventricle but also in the left ventricle and aorta, as compared with normal. Echocardiograms could be successfully performed in 34 of 37 patients. The thickness of the right ventricular anterior wall and the dimension of the right ventricular cavity were abnormal, even in patients with mild disease (National Institutes of Health [NIH] score for severity of disease of 85 or greater). Larger, older children with lower NIH score had disproportionately larger right ventricular anterior walls and cavities. The thickness of the septal wall, the thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall, and the aortic dimensions were increased in those with severe disease. The dimensions of the left ventricular cavity for the population were slightly but significantly smaller than normal in systole and in diastole throughout the course of the disease. This study demonstrates that echocardiography is an effective noninvasive means of assessing the long-term changes in children with cystic fibrosis. These changes occur in both sides of the heart and appear to worsen as the disease progresses.", "contents": "Echocardiographic profiles of the long-term cardiac changes in cystic fibrosis. In this echocardiographic study, assessment of the heart in children with cystic fibrosis has shown that changes occur in not only the right ventricle but also in the left ventricle and aorta, as compared with normal. Echocardiograms could be successfully performed in 34 of 37 patients. The thickness of the right ventricular anterior wall and the dimension of the right ventricular cavity were abnormal, even in patients with mild disease (National Institutes of Health [NIH] score for severity of disease of 85 or greater). Larger, older children with lower NIH score had disproportionately larger right ventricular anterior walls and cavities. The thickness of the septal wall, the thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall, and the aortic dimensions were increased in those with severe disease. The dimensions of the left ventricular cavity for the population were slightly but significantly smaller than normal in systole and in diastole throughout the course of the disease. This study demonstrates that echocardiography is an effective noninvasive means of assessing the long-term changes in children with cystic fibrosis. These changes occur in both sides of the heart and appear to worsen as the disease progresses.", "PMID": 446129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7409", "title": "Two-dimensional echocardiographic features of bicuspid aortic valve.", "content": "The two-dimensional cross-sectional echocardiographic diagnosis of bicuspid aortic valves is described and compared with results of M-mode echocardiograms. Aortic valve anatomy was determined in 19 selected patients by angiography, and confirmed in five by direct surgical visualization. Using an eccentricity index (EI) of 1.3 or greater as diagnostic of bicuspid aortic valve, M-mode correctly identified anatomy in 14 of 19 valves (74 percent), although EI varied in several patients. For two-dimensional diagnosis of bicuspid aortic valve, short axis cross section was preferred, and criteria included number of cusps seen in real time motion, irregularity of folding of cusp margins, and location of commissural insertions. Two-dimensional echocardiography correctly identified anatomy in 18 of 19 valves (95 percent). Long axis cross section disclosed valvular doming in all 8 patients in whom doming was observed angiographically, correlating with hemodynamic findings. Two-dimensional echocardiography aids in the detection of bicuspid aortic valve in a suspected population, can give an estimate of valve gradients, and explains variability in M-mode findings. As such, two-dimensional echocardiography is a valuable tool in the noninvasive diagnosis of the bicuspid aortic valve.", "contents": "Two-dimensional echocardiographic features of bicuspid aortic valve. The two-dimensional cross-sectional echocardiographic diagnosis of bicuspid aortic valves is described and compared with results of M-mode echocardiograms. Aortic valve anatomy was determined in 19 selected patients by angiography, and confirmed in five by direct surgical visualization. Using an eccentricity index (EI) of 1.3 or greater as diagnostic of bicuspid aortic valve, M-mode correctly identified anatomy in 14 of 19 valves (74 percent), although EI varied in several patients. For two-dimensional diagnosis of bicuspid aortic valve, short axis cross section was preferred, and criteria included number of cusps seen in real time motion, irregularity of folding of cusp margins, and location of commissural insertions. Two-dimensional echocardiography correctly identified anatomy in 18 of 19 valves (95 percent). Long axis cross section disclosed valvular doming in all 8 patients in whom doming was observed angiographically, correlating with hemodynamic findings. Two-dimensional echocardiography aids in the detection of bicuspid aortic valve in a suspected population, can give an estimate of valve gradients, and explains variability in M-mode findings. As such, two-dimensional echocardiography is a valuable tool in the noninvasive diagnosis of the bicuspid aortic valve.", "PMID": 446130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7410", "title": "Short-course chemotherapy of tuberculosis with largely twice-weekly isoniazid-rifampin.", "content": "Although short-course, largely twice weekly chemotherapy for treatment of tuberculosis has been shown to be effective in other countries, when given under closely controlled conditions, it has not been adopted in this country where most patients are older and are treated as outpatients. Since January, 1976, 315 patients (mean age 55.5 years) with proven pulmonary tuberculosis have been treated with rifampin (RIF) 600 mg and isoniazid (INH) 300 mg daily for one month, followed by RIF 600 mg and INH 900 mg twice-weekly for another eight months, self-administered except for a few patients. By three months, 95 percent had converted to negative culture. There were only ten failures among 185 patients in whom final results could be assessed. There has been only one relapse during 1-21 months of follow-up in 175 patients. Serious side effects were few: six instances of jaundice, two of \"flu-like syndrome,\" and one of thrombocytopenia. This form of initial therapy for tuberculosis is safe, effective, and economical.", "contents": "Short-course chemotherapy of tuberculosis with largely twice-weekly isoniazid-rifampin. Although short-course, largely twice weekly chemotherapy for treatment of tuberculosis has been shown to be effective in other countries, when given under closely controlled conditions, it has not been adopted in this country where most patients are older and are treated as outpatients. Since January, 1976, 315 patients (mean age 55.5 years) with proven pulmonary tuberculosis have been treated with rifampin (RIF) 600 mg and isoniazid (INH) 300 mg daily for one month, followed by RIF 600 mg and INH 900 mg twice-weekly for another eight months, self-administered except for a few patients. By three months, 95 percent had converted to negative culture. There were only ten failures among 185 patients in whom final results could be assessed. There has been only one relapse during 1-21 months of follow-up in 175 patients. Serious side effects were few: six instances of jaundice, two of \"flu-like syndrome,\" and one of thrombocytopenia. This form of initial therapy for tuberculosis is safe, effective, and economical.", "PMID": 446131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7411", "title": "Two infant deaths after inhaling baby powder.", "content": "The clinical course of two baby girls who died following accidental inhalation of baby powder is described. Frequent tracheobroncheal lavage was not effective therapy. An experiment using eight mice revealed that the inhalation of baby powder was fatal. Possible treatments, including tracheobroncheal lavage with saline solution and application of chelating agents, are discussed.", "contents": "Two infant deaths after inhaling baby powder. The clinical course of two baby girls who died following accidental inhalation of baby powder is described. Frequent tracheobroncheal lavage was not effective therapy. An experiment using eight mice revealed that the inhalation of baby powder was fatal. Possible treatments, including tracheobroncheal lavage with saline solution and application of chelating agents, are discussed.", "PMID": 446132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7412", "title": "Steroids, hypoxemia, and oxygen transport.", "content": "This study investigated the effects of administration of methylprednisolone on oxygen transport in ten stable hypoxemic (mean arterial oxygen pressure, 54 +/- 3 mm Hg) patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At 24 hours (after four injections of a bolus of 30 mg of methylprednisolone sodium succinate per kilogram of body weight, given intravenously every six hours), significant differences (P less than 0.05) were an increased cardiac index (3.0 +/- 0.2 to 4.1 +/- 0.2 L/min/sq m), a decreased peripheral vascular resistance (1,186 +/- 100 to 849 +/- 60 dynes/sec/cm-5), an increased flow of oxygen to tissue (0.90 +/- 0.07 to 1.16 +/- 0.09 L/min), a decreased arteriovenous oxygen content difference (49 +/- 3 to 43 +/- 2 ml/L), a decreased concentration of hydrogen ions in the arterial blood (38 +/- 1 to 35 +/- 1 nmol/L) and arterial carbon dioxide tension (39 +/- 2 to 32 +/- 1 mm Hg), and increased levels of lactate (1.1 +/- 0.2 to 3.7 +/- 1.0 mmol/L) and pyruvate (0.14 +/- 0.04 to 0.37 +/- 0.08 mmol/L). Fractional oxygen utilization, oxygen consumption, the partial pressure of oxygen at which hemoglobin was 50 percent saturated, and the level of 2,3-diphosphoglyceric acid remained unchanged. In vitro studies showed that these patients' red blood cells responded with a significant (more than 35 percent) increase in the level of 2.3-diphosphoglyceric acid when incubated for ten hours with concentrations of methylprednisolone that were much higher (1.0 mg/ml) than those attained in vivo (12.5 microgram/ml). These studies demonstrate that repeated infusions of high doses of steroids in a bolus in stable hypoxemic patients with COPD produce significant physiologic changes but no apparent net gain in the oxygenation of tissues.", "contents": "Steroids, hypoxemia, and oxygen transport. This study investigated the effects of administration of methylprednisolone on oxygen transport in ten stable hypoxemic (mean arterial oxygen pressure, 54 +/- 3 mm Hg) patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At 24 hours (after four injections of a bolus of 30 mg of methylprednisolone sodium succinate per kilogram of body weight, given intravenously every six hours), significant differences (P less than 0.05) were an increased cardiac index (3.0 +/- 0.2 to 4.1 +/- 0.2 L/min/sq m), a decreased peripheral vascular resistance (1,186 +/- 100 to 849 +/- 60 dynes/sec/cm-5), an increased flow of oxygen to tissue (0.90 +/- 0.07 to 1.16 +/- 0.09 L/min), a decreased arteriovenous oxygen content difference (49 +/- 3 to 43 +/- 2 ml/L), a decreased concentration of hydrogen ions in the arterial blood (38 +/- 1 to 35 +/- 1 nmol/L) and arterial carbon dioxide tension (39 +/- 2 to 32 +/- 1 mm Hg), and increased levels of lactate (1.1 +/- 0.2 to 3.7 +/- 1.0 mmol/L) and pyruvate (0.14 +/- 0.04 to 0.37 +/- 0.08 mmol/L). Fractional oxygen utilization, oxygen consumption, the partial pressure of oxygen at which hemoglobin was 50 percent saturated, and the level of 2,3-diphosphoglyceric acid remained unchanged. In vitro studies showed that these patients' red blood cells responded with a significant (more than 35 percent) increase in the level of 2.3-diphosphoglyceric acid when incubated for ten hours with concentrations of methylprednisolone that were much higher (1.0 mg/ml) than those attained in vivo (12.5 microgram/ml). These studies demonstrate that repeated infusions of high doses of steroids in a bolus in stable hypoxemic patients with COPD produce significant physiologic changes but no apparent net gain in the oxygenation of tissues.", "PMID": 446133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7413", "title": "Respiratory abnormalities among grain elevator workers.", "content": "Twenty-two grain workers with respiratory symptoms and lung function abnormalities were studied. Our findings suggest that grain dust asthma probably has an allergic basis, even though skin tests and precipitin studies were negative using extracts of grain dust. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis and grain dust fever were not found in any of the subjects. We found that grain dust can cause airflow obstruction in two ways: first by inducing asthma, probably through immunologic mechanisms, and second, by causing industrial chronic bronchitis.", "contents": "Respiratory abnormalities among grain elevator workers. Twenty-two grain workers with respiratory symptoms and lung function abnormalities were studied. Our findings suggest that grain dust asthma probably has an allergic basis, even though skin tests and precipitin studies were negative using extracts of grain dust. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis and grain dust fever were not found in any of the subjects. We found that grain dust can cause airflow obstruction in two ways: first by inducing asthma, probably through immunologic mechanisms, and second, by causing industrial chronic bronchitis.", "PMID": 446134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7414", "title": "Effects of influenza vaccination on the peripheral airways of healthy human volunteers.", "content": "Forty-two volunteers (15 of them cigarette smokers) were studied to determine the effects on the airways that might result from immunization with killed influenza virus vaccine. The forced vital capacity, the forced expiratory volume in one second, the maximal expiratory flows at 50 and 75 percnet of vital capacity, and the volume isoflow were determined before and at 24, 48, and 72 hours and one and two weeks after vaccination. For both smokers and nonsmokers, there were no significant changes in the results of these tests of pulmonary function following vaccination.", "contents": "Effects of influenza vaccination on the peripheral airways of healthy human volunteers. Forty-two volunteers (15 of them cigarette smokers) were studied to determine the effects on the airways that might result from immunization with killed influenza virus vaccine. The forced vital capacity, the forced expiratory volume in one second, the maximal expiratory flows at 50 and 75 percnet of vital capacity, and the volume isoflow were determined before and at 24, 48, and 72 hours and one and two weeks after vaccination. For both smokers and nonsmokers, there were no significant changes in the results of these tests of pulmonary function following vaccination.", "PMID": 446135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7415", "title": "Peripheral blood flow in secundum-type atrial septal defect; preoperative and postoperative studies.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to correlate intracardiac shunt and peripheral blood flow measured by a venous-occlusion plethysmograph in 30 patients with secundum-type atrial septal defects. Preoperative and postoperative blood flows in the forearm were expressed as milliliters per minute per 100 gm of tissue. Peripheral flow increased after closure of the atrial septal defect, except in seven patients whose flow decreased. A possible explanation for this decrease is discussed.", "contents": "Peripheral blood flow in secundum-type atrial septal defect; preoperative and postoperative studies. The purpose of this study was to correlate intracardiac shunt and peripheral blood flow measured by a venous-occlusion plethysmograph in 30 patients with secundum-type atrial septal defects. Preoperative and postoperative blood flows in the forearm were expressed as milliliters per minute per 100 gm of tissue. Peripheral flow increased after closure of the atrial septal defect, except in seven patients whose flow decreased. A possible explanation for this decrease is discussed.", "PMID": 446136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7416", "title": "Echocardiographic findings of congenital absence of the pulmonary valve with tetralogy of Fallot.", "content": "The characteristic echocardiographic findings for congenital absence of the pulmonary valve with tetralogy of Fallot were described in three patients, whose diagnoses were confirmed by operation and/or autopsy. The abnormal linear echo, which was thought to be derived from the rudimentary pulmonary valve tissue, was recorded anteriorly to the dense echo from the subpulmonary muscle mass. The echocardiographic signs of right ventricular volume overload were associated with overriding of the aorta.", "contents": "Echocardiographic findings of congenital absence of the pulmonary valve with tetralogy of Fallot. The characteristic echocardiographic findings for congenital absence of the pulmonary valve with tetralogy of Fallot were described in three patients, whose diagnoses were confirmed by operation and/or autopsy. The abnormal linear echo, which was thought to be derived from the rudimentary pulmonary valve tissue, was recorded anteriorly to the dense echo from the subpulmonary muscle mass. The echocardiographic signs of right ventricular volume overload were associated with overriding of the aorta.", "PMID": 446137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7417", "title": "Oral therapy with phentolamine in chronic congestive heart failure.", "content": "Therapy with phentolamine can improve the condition of patients with congestive heart failure due to the inotropic effect of this drug, as well as its vasodilating action. The use of oral therapy with phentolamine has not been adequately investigated in patients with chronic heart failure. Therefore, nine patients with chronic heart failure due to underlying valvular disease received 50 mg of phentolamine four times a day for two weeks. Echocardiograms and measurements of systolic time intervals were obtained prior to administration of phentolamine and two weeks after the introduction of therapy with the drug. As a result of therapy with phentolamine, the ejection fraction, the percentage of change in the minor axis, and the velocity of circumferential fiber shortening significantly increased, while the left atrial dimension decreased. Therapy with phentolamine produced a significant decrease in the preejection period index, as well as the ratio of the preejection period over the left ventricular ejection time. Thus, oral therapy with phentolamine improves left ventricular function in patients with chronic heart failure.", "contents": "Oral therapy with phentolamine in chronic congestive heart failure. Therapy with phentolamine can improve the condition of patients with congestive heart failure due to the inotropic effect of this drug, as well as its vasodilating action. The use of oral therapy with phentolamine has not been adequately investigated in patients with chronic heart failure. Therefore, nine patients with chronic heart failure due to underlying valvular disease received 50 mg of phentolamine four times a day for two weeks. Echocardiograms and measurements of systolic time intervals were obtained prior to administration of phentolamine and two weeks after the introduction of therapy with the drug. As a result of therapy with phentolamine, the ejection fraction, the percentage of change in the minor axis, and the velocity of circumferential fiber shortening significantly increased, while the left atrial dimension decreased. Therapy with phentolamine produced a significant decrease in the preejection period index, as well as the ratio of the preejection period over the left ventricular ejection time. Thus, oral therapy with phentolamine improves left ventricular function in patients with chronic heart failure.", "PMID": 446138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7418", "title": "Rapid onset of lung involvement in progressive systemic sclerosis.", "content": "Lung involvement in progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) is common but usually is of chronic onset late in the course. Skin changes usually antedate pulmonary findings. Presentation of PSS with rapid development of pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, without skin changes, has not previously been described. Such a case is discussed here and the radiologic and pathologic findings and course of pulmonary PSS are reviewed.", "contents": "Rapid onset of lung involvement in progressive systemic sclerosis. Lung involvement in progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) is common but usually is of chronic onset late in the course. Skin changes usually antedate pulmonary findings. Presentation of PSS with rapid development of pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, without skin changes, has not previously been described. Such a case is discussed here and the radiologic and pathologic findings and course of pulmonary PSS are reviewed.", "PMID": 446143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7419", "title": "Human pulmonary dirofilariasis presenting as a solitary pulmonary nodule.", "content": "A case of human pulmonary dirofilariasis had positive serologic testing postoperatively. Increased awareness of this entity as a cause of solitary pulmonary nodules may lead to preoperative serologic and intradermal testing, and to the possibility of arriving at a preoperative diagnosis.", "contents": "Human pulmonary dirofilariasis presenting as a solitary pulmonary nodule. A case of human pulmonary dirofilariasis had positive serologic testing postoperatively. Increased awareness of this entity as a cause of solitary pulmonary nodules may lead to preoperative serologic and intradermal testing, and to the possibility of arriving at a preoperative diagnosis.", "PMID": 446144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7420", "title": "Major dehiscence of a prosthetic aortic valve: detection by echocardiography.", "content": "A 21-year-old man had acute aortic insufficiency three months after insertion of an aortic valve prosthesis. Chest roentgenography demonstrated abnormal orientation of the prosthesis. M-mode echocardiography showed dense, linear echoes from the prosthetic valve between the interventricular septum and the mitral valve, along with loss of normal poppet motion within the aortic root. At surgery, the prosthesis was found to be extensively disrupted, resulting in prolapse into the left ventricular outflow tract. Another valve replacement was performed with patient survival. Echocardiography appears to be a useful adjunct to established roentgenographic procedures in the diagnosis of major dehiscence of prosthetic aortic valves.", "contents": "Major dehiscence of a prosthetic aortic valve: detection by echocardiography. A 21-year-old man had acute aortic insufficiency three months after insertion of an aortic valve prosthesis. Chest roentgenography demonstrated abnormal orientation of the prosthesis. M-mode echocardiography showed dense, linear echoes from the prosthetic valve between the interventricular septum and the mitral valve, along with loss of normal poppet motion within the aortic root. At surgery, the prosthesis was found to be extensively disrupted, resulting in prolapse into the left ventricular outflow tract. Another valve replacement was performed with patient survival. Echocardiography appears to be a useful adjunct to established roentgenographic procedures in the diagnosis of major dehiscence of prosthetic aortic valves.", "PMID": 446145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7421", "title": "Pulmonary artery--bronchial fistula: a new complication of Swan-Ganz catheterization.", "content": "A patient with a Swan-Ganz catheter developed massive hemoptysis. Injection of radiographic contrast media through the catheter revealed rapid filling of the tracheo-bronchial tree, consistent with direct pulmonary artery-bronchial communication. Development of hemoptysis in a patient with a Swan-Ganz catheter should alert the clinician to this possibility.", "contents": "Pulmonary artery--bronchial fistula: a new complication of Swan-Ganz catheterization. A patient with a Swan-Ganz catheter developed massive hemoptysis. Injection of radiographic contrast media through the catheter revealed rapid filling of the tracheo-bronchial tree, consistent with direct pulmonary artery-bronchial communication. Development of hemoptysis in a patient with a Swan-Ganz catheter should alert the clinician to this possibility.", "PMID": 446146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7422", "title": "Peripheral pulmonary embolization from central pulmonary aneurysm.", "content": "A 59-year-old man underwent successful repair of a pulmonary arterial aneurysm because of peripheral pulmonary embolization. These lesions are relatively rare; and, to out knowledge, peripheral embolization from such an aneurysm has not been previously reported.", "contents": "Peripheral pulmonary embolization from central pulmonary aneurysm. A 59-year-old man underwent successful repair of a pulmonary arterial aneurysm because of peripheral pulmonary embolization. These lesions are relatively rare; and, to out knowledge, peripheral embolization from such an aneurysm has not been previously reported.", "PMID": 446147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7423", "title": "Acute respiratory failure and pulmonary arteritis without parenchymal involvement: demonstration in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "A 28-year-old woman with a eight-year history of rheumatoid arthritis presented with a three-day history of dyspnea. Physical and electrocardiographic findings were consistent with pulmonary hypertension. Arterial blood gases revealed a ventilation-perfusion mismatch. Chest roentgenogram was normal. After transient improvement, she suddenly deteriorated and died. At autopsy, a necrotizing pulmonary panarteritis was found without parenchymal involvement by rheumatoid disease. The pulmonary arteries were the only vessels affected. Immunofluorescent staining revealed immunoproteins scattered throughout the vessel walls without localization to the basement membrane. The unique features of the case are discussed in relation to pulmonary hypertension and rheumatoid lung disease in which vascular lesions are usually associated with honeycomb lung. The association between the rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary vasculitis was probably coincidental.", "contents": "Acute respiratory failure and pulmonary arteritis without parenchymal involvement: demonstration in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis. A 28-year-old woman with a eight-year history of rheumatoid arthritis presented with a three-day history of dyspnea. Physical and electrocardiographic findings were consistent with pulmonary hypertension. Arterial blood gases revealed a ventilation-perfusion mismatch. Chest roentgenogram was normal. After transient improvement, she suddenly deteriorated and died. At autopsy, a necrotizing pulmonary panarteritis was found without parenchymal involvement by rheumatoid disease. The pulmonary arteries were the only vessels affected. Immunofluorescent staining revealed immunoproteins scattered throughout the vessel walls without localization to the basement membrane. The unique features of the case are discussed in relation to pulmonary hypertension and rheumatoid lung disease in which vascular lesions are usually associated with honeycomb lung. The association between the rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary vasculitis was probably coincidental.", "PMID": 446148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7424", "title": "Intercostal artery laceration during thoracocentesis: increased risk in elderly patients.", "content": "Two cases of intercostal artery laceration following thoracocentesis are reported. Subsequent analysis of 29 thoracic aortograms demonstrated a definite trend toward increasing tortuosity of intercostal arteries with advancing age. Consequently, the amount of space available for safe insertion of the thoracocentesis needle tends to decrease with advancing age. As a result, elderly patients are more prone to intercostal artery laceration during thoracocentesis, and careful attention must be paid to the proper technique for performing this examination in such patients.", "contents": "Intercostal artery laceration during thoracocentesis: increased risk in elderly patients. Two cases of intercostal artery laceration following thoracocentesis are reported. Subsequent analysis of 29 thoracic aortograms demonstrated a definite trend toward increasing tortuosity of intercostal arteries with advancing age. Consequently, the amount of space available for safe insertion of the thoracocentesis needle tends to decrease with advancing age. As a result, elderly patients are more prone to intercostal artery laceration during thoracocentesis, and careful attention must be paid to the proper technique for performing this examination in such patients.", "PMID": 446149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7425", "title": "Severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction caused by an intracavitary cardiac neurilemoma: succesful surgical removal and postoperative diagnosis.", "content": "A 32-year-old woman with a one-year history of progressive shortness of breath and chest pain was found to have a grade 4/6 systolic murmur at the base of the heart and left sternal border. Right ventricular enlargement was found by physical examination, ECG, and chest roentgenogram. Cardiac catheterization showed elevated right ventricular pressure, an intracavitary pressure gradient, and inability to enter the pulmonary artery. Angiography revealed a mass in the right ventricular outflow tract. Successful surgical removal of a large, well-encapsulated tumor mass was accomplished, and the tumor was interpreted as a benign neurilemoma. Postoperatively, the patient improved remarkably.", "contents": "Severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction caused by an intracavitary cardiac neurilemoma: succesful surgical removal and postoperative diagnosis. A 32-year-old woman with a one-year history of progressive shortness of breath and chest pain was found to have a grade 4/6 systolic murmur at the base of the heart and left sternal border. Right ventricular enlargement was found by physical examination, ECG, and chest roentgenogram. Cardiac catheterization showed elevated right ventricular pressure, an intracavitary pressure gradient, and inability to enter the pulmonary artery. Angiography revealed a mass in the right ventricular outflow tract. Successful surgical removal of a large, well-encapsulated tumor mass was accomplished, and the tumor was interpreted as a benign neurilemoma. Postoperatively, the patient improved remarkably.", "PMID": 446150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7426", "title": "Mucor mediastinitis.", "content": "A 69-year-old man with lymphocytic leukemia presented with fever, a pericardial friction rub, widening of the mediastinum, and left pleural effusion. Atrial fibrillation, refractory hypotension and acute paraplegia punctuated his hospital course. Invasion of the mediastinum, myocardium, mediastinal, coronary and spinal arteries with mucormycosis was present at post-mortem examination.", "contents": "Mucor mediastinitis. A 69-year-old man with lymphocytic leukemia presented with fever, a pericardial friction rub, widening of the mediastinum, and left pleural effusion. Atrial fibrillation, refractory hypotension and acute paraplegia punctuated his hospital course. Invasion of the mediastinum, myocardium, mediastinal, coronary and spinal arteries with mucormycosis was present at post-mortem examination.", "PMID": 446151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7427", "title": "Reversible platypnea and orthodeoxia following recovery from adult respiratory distress syndrome.", "content": "Platypnea nad orthodeoxia developed during an episode of adult respiratory distress syndrome in a previously healthy individual. An outstanding feature of the patient's illness was the development of numerous pneumatoceles secondary to necrotizing pneumonia. These abnormalities spontaneously improved with improvement of the underlying parenchymal lung disease.", "contents": "Reversible platypnea and orthodeoxia following recovery from adult respiratory distress syndrome. Platypnea nad orthodeoxia developed during an episode of adult respiratory distress syndrome in a previously healthy individual. An outstanding feature of the patient's illness was the development of numerous pneumatoceles secondary to necrotizing pneumonia. These abnormalities spontaneously improved with improvement of the underlying parenchymal lung disease.", "PMID": 446152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7428", "title": "Severe obstructive lung disease after smoke inhalation.", "content": "A 26-year-old-man developed severe obstructive lung disease after inhalation of smoke from a house fire. Bronchography demonstrated changes characteristic of bronchiolitis. Despite intensive therapy with bronchodilators and corticosteroids, he continues to have severe obstructive lung disease nine months after the smoke inhalation.", "contents": "Severe obstructive lung disease after smoke inhalation. A 26-year-old-man developed severe obstructive lung disease after inhalation of smoke from a house fire. Bronchography demonstrated changes characteristic of bronchiolitis. Despite intensive therapy with bronchodilators and corticosteroids, he continues to have severe obstructive lung disease nine months after the smoke inhalation.", "PMID": 446159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7429", "title": "Prolonged endotracheal intubation.", "content": "The advisability of prolonged oral or nasotracheal intubation is of continuing concern to physicians caring for patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilatory assistance. Currently, in many health care centers, prolonged intubation is defined as being in excess of seven days. We treated a patient who required mechanical ventilatory assistance and in whom oral endotracheal intubation was maintained for two months without significant pathologic sequelae.", "contents": "Prolonged endotracheal intubation. The advisability of prolonged oral or nasotracheal intubation is of continuing concern to physicians caring for patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilatory assistance. Currently, in many health care centers, prolonged intubation is defined as being in excess of seven days. We treated a patient who required mechanical ventilatory assistance and in whom oral endotracheal intubation was maintained for two months without significant pathologic sequelae.", "PMID": 446160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7430", "title": "Loculated pericardial effusion in acute pericarditis: diagnosis by combined echocardiographic and radioisotopic techniques.", "content": "A young man with a typical clinical presentation of acute pericarditis, on M-mode echocardiography, was repeatedly found to have a relatively echo-free area posterosuperior to the left ventricle, disappearing as the left ventricular apex was scanned. A radioisotopic \"pericardial scan\" revealed pericardial fluid lateral and inferior to the heart but not at the apex. This represents an additional type of M-mode echocardiographic presentation of loculated pericardial effusion.", "contents": "Loculated pericardial effusion in acute pericarditis: diagnosis by combined echocardiographic and radioisotopic techniques. A young man with a typical clinical presentation of acute pericarditis, on M-mode echocardiography, was repeatedly found to have a relatively echo-free area posterosuperior to the left ventricle, disappearing as the left ventricular apex was scanned. A radioisotopic \"pericardial scan\" revealed pericardial fluid lateral and inferior to the heart but not at the apex. This represents an additional type of M-mode echocardiographic presentation of loculated pericardial effusion.", "PMID": 446161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7431", "title": "Pulmonary function studies in patients with prolapse of the mitral valve.", "content": "We studied the pulmonary function and chest x-ray films of 20 nonsmokers with idiopathic prolapse of the mitral valve. Forty-five percent of these patients complained of dyspnea. Of the 16 chest films reviewed, 44 percent had radiographic evidence of pectus excavatum and 25 percent thoracic scoliosis. The most common pulmonary function abnormalities were increased residual volume (63 percent) and a reduced steady state diffusing capacity (50 percent of patients). There was no relationship between the presence of dyspnea and either chest wall deformity of abnormality of pulmonary function. These pulmonary function abnormalities may reflect a pulmonary parenchymal disorder possibly secondary to a connective tissue abnormality in the lung.", "contents": "Pulmonary function studies in patients with prolapse of the mitral valve. We studied the pulmonary function and chest x-ray films of 20 nonsmokers with idiopathic prolapse of the mitral valve. Forty-five percent of these patients complained of dyspnea. Of the 16 chest films reviewed, 44 percent had radiographic evidence of pectus excavatum and 25 percent thoracic scoliosis. The most common pulmonary function abnormalities were increased residual volume (63 percent) and a reduced steady state diffusing capacity (50 percent of patients). There was no relationship between the presence of dyspnea and either chest wall deformity of abnormality of pulmonary function. These pulmonary function abnormalities may reflect a pulmonary parenchymal disorder possibly secondary to a connective tissue abnormality in the lung.", "PMID": 446165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7432", "title": "Ventricular arrhythmias during exercise testing, jogging, and sedentary life: a comparative study of healthy physically active men, healthy sedentary men, and men with previous myocardial infarction.", "content": "The occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias during exercise testing, jogging, and sedentary life with and without preceding exercise was studied with the aid of ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in healthy physically active men, healthy sedentary men, and men with previous myocardial infarction (15 men in each group). Ventricular premature beats of the same grade were found during exercise testing and jogging in ten of the 15 healthy physically active men, in ten of the 15 healthy sedentary men, and in eight of the 15 men with previous myocardial infarction. When unifocal ventricular premature beats were omitted, the corresponding figures were 14/15, 11/15, and 15/15, respectively. Healthy physically active men had less ventricular arrhythmias in all of the tested situations. The greatest number and also the highest grades of ventricular arrhythmias during the exercises were found in healthy sedentary men, whereas the men with previous myocardial infarction had ventricular arrhythmias more during sedentary life.", "contents": "Ventricular arrhythmias during exercise testing, jogging, and sedentary life: a comparative study of healthy physically active men, healthy sedentary men, and men with previous myocardial infarction. The occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias during exercise testing, jogging, and sedentary life with and without preceding exercise was studied with the aid of ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in healthy physically active men, healthy sedentary men, and men with previous myocardial infarction (15 men in each group). Ventricular premature beats of the same grade were found during exercise testing and jogging in ten of the 15 healthy physically active men, in ten of the 15 healthy sedentary men, and in eight of the 15 men with previous myocardial infarction. When unifocal ventricular premature beats were omitted, the corresponding figures were 14/15, 11/15, and 15/15, respectively. Healthy physically active men had less ventricular arrhythmias in all of the tested situations. The greatest number and also the highest grades of ventricular arrhythmias during the exercises were found in healthy sedentary men, whereas the men with previous myocardial infarction had ventricular arrhythmias more during sedentary life.", "PMID": 446167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7433", "title": "Fluorescence bronchoscopy for detection of lung cancer.", "content": "A system using the fluorescence bronchoscope has been designed for localization of small, early bronchogenic carcinoma by the fluorescence of previously injected hematoporphyrin derivative. The system included a 200W mercury vapor lamp and primary filter, flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope with special violet-transmitting light conductor, secondary filter, and image intensifier tube. Tests indicated the system could detect a tumor only 100 micron thick at the expected concentration of hematoporphyrin derivative: 1 microgram/gm at 48 to 96 hours following intravenous injection at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg. Examination of resected specimens (six of lung, one of esophagus) showed positive fluorescence in all cases, with fluorescence visible beyond the region visible under conventional white light examination. Fluorescence bronchoscopy has been performed on four patients thus far. Positive fluorescence was observed in all three cases where the tumor had been known to occur. Positive fluorescence was also observed in the patient with sputum positive for lung cancer, but negative x-ray film findings. However, additional examinations are required to demonstrate the smallest lesion that can be detected in vivo.", "contents": "Fluorescence bronchoscopy for detection of lung cancer. A system using the fluorescence bronchoscope has been designed for localization of small, early bronchogenic carcinoma by the fluorescence of previously injected hematoporphyrin derivative. The system included a 200W mercury vapor lamp and primary filter, flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope with special violet-transmitting light conductor, secondary filter, and image intensifier tube. Tests indicated the system could detect a tumor only 100 micron thick at the expected concentration of hematoporphyrin derivative: 1 microgram/gm at 48 to 96 hours following intravenous injection at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg. Examination of resected specimens (six of lung, one of esophagus) showed positive fluorescence in all cases, with fluorescence visible beyond the region visible under conventional white light examination. Fluorescence bronchoscopy has been performed on four patients thus far. Positive fluorescence was observed in all three cases where the tumor had been known to occur. Positive fluorescence was also observed in the patient with sputum positive for lung cancer, but negative x-ray film findings. However, additional examinations are required to demonstrate the smallest lesion that can be detected in vivo.", "PMID": 446168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7434", "title": "Antibacterial properties of lidocaine.", "content": "The inhibitory effect of lidocaine and lidocaine plus methylparaben as a preservative was studied with 25 strains of bacteria. The tested strains were mixed with each topical anesthetic preparation, and quantitative cultures were performed on aspirates at 0, 30, 60, and 120 minutes. Results were compared to counts obtained in a lactated Ringer's solution, which were sampled at the same intervals. Lidocaine (1 percent solution) reduced quantitative counts after 120 minutes of contact by over one log for only six of the 25 strains tested. Lidocaine plus methylparaben reduced quantitative counts to a somewhat greater extent; nevertheless, all strains except Bacteroides melaninogenicus were recovered in relatively high concentrations at each sampling interval. Numerous previous studies have shown that topical anesthetic agents are toxic to bacteria. The results of this study show that this toxic effect is not sufficiently severe to prevent the recovery of most pathogens of the lower respiratory tract in bronchoscopic aspirates.", "contents": "Antibacterial properties of lidocaine. The inhibitory effect of lidocaine and lidocaine plus methylparaben as a preservative was studied with 25 strains of bacteria. The tested strains were mixed with each topical anesthetic preparation, and quantitative cultures were performed on aspirates at 0, 30, 60, and 120 minutes. Results were compared to counts obtained in a lactated Ringer's solution, which were sampled at the same intervals. Lidocaine (1 percent solution) reduced quantitative counts after 120 minutes of contact by over one log for only six of the 25 strains tested. Lidocaine plus methylparaben reduced quantitative counts to a somewhat greater extent; nevertheless, all strains except Bacteroides melaninogenicus were recovered in relatively high concentrations at each sampling interval. Numerous previous studies have shown that topical anesthetic agents are toxic to bacteria. The results of this study show that this toxic effect is not sufficiently severe to prevent the recovery of most pathogens of the lower respiratory tract in bronchoscopic aspirates.", "PMID": 446170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7435", "title": "Evaluation of the single-breath diffusing capacity in asthma and cystic fibrosis.", "content": "To explain why the single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (Dsb) was, on the average, elevated in 163 asthmatic subjects and 175 patients with cystic fibrosis, we simulated this elevation in ten normal subjects by having them perform the test for Dsb through an inspiratory obstruction. This resulted in an 18 percent increase in Dsb corrected for pulmonary volume. Inhalation of a bronchodilator drug was associated with relief of obstruction and a fall in the corrected Dsb in 31 asthmatic subjects but did not change either the obstruction or the corrected Dsb in 17 patients with cystic fibrosis. We suggest that elevated Dsb in asthma and cystic fibrosis is partly due to maximal inspiration against obstructed airways. This requires abnormally negative intrathoracic pressures, increasing the pulmonary capillary blood volume, and, thereby, increasing the Dsb.", "contents": "Evaluation of the single-breath diffusing capacity in asthma and cystic fibrosis. To explain why the single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (Dsb) was, on the average, elevated in 163 asthmatic subjects and 175 patients with cystic fibrosis, we simulated this elevation in ten normal subjects by having them perform the test for Dsb through an inspiratory obstruction. This resulted in an 18 percent increase in Dsb corrected for pulmonary volume. Inhalation of a bronchodilator drug was associated with relief of obstruction and a fall in the corrected Dsb in 31 asthmatic subjects but did not change either the obstruction or the corrected Dsb in 17 patients with cystic fibrosis. We suggest that elevated Dsb in asthma and cystic fibrosis is partly due to maximal inspiration against obstructed airways. This requires abnormally negative intrathoracic pressures, increasing the pulmonary capillary blood volume, and, thereby, increasing the Dsb.", "PMID": 446172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7436", "title": "Chest roentgenograms in primary pulmonary hypertension.", "content": "The characteristics of 59 chest roentgenograms of patients with primary pulmonary hypertension were investigated and compared with roentgenograms of 100 healthy control subjects. The relationship with pulmonary hemodynamics was also examined. In primary pulmonary hypertension, there was remarkable protrusion of the main pulmonary artery; the DPA (T/2) and the PL/T index (see text) had high values. These indices depend mainly on pulmonary hypertension, but are partially determined physically by the size of the individual heart. The width of the descending branch of the right pulmonary artery (dPA) was about double the control value (P less than 0.001). The cardiothoracic ratio was significantly increased in primary pulmonary hypertension and there was a positive correlation between the ratio and the mean right atrial pressure (r = 0.37, P less than 0.01). However, there was no correlation with pulmonary arterial pressure or other pulmonary hemodynamic parameters. These results indicate that the increase in the cardiothoracic ratio in primary pulmonary hypertension is caused mainly by right heart failure.", "contents": "Chest roentgenograms in primary pulmonary hypertension. The characteristics of 59 chest roentgenograms of patients with primary pulmonary hypertension were investigated and compared with roentgenograms of 100 healthy control subjects. The relationship with pulmonary hemodynamics was also examined. In primary pulmonary hypertension, there was remarkable protrusion of the main pulmonary artery; the DPA (T/2) and the PL/T index (see text) had high values. These indices depend mainly on pulmonary hypertension, but are partially determined physically by the size of the individual heart. The width of the descending branch of the right pulmonary artery (dPA) was about double the control value (P less than 0.001). The cardiothoracic ratio was significantly increased in primary pulmonary hypertension and there was a positive correlation between the ratio and the mean right atrial pressure (r = 0.37, P less than 0.01). However, there was no correlation with pulmonary arterial pressure or other pulmonary hemodynamic parameters. These results indicate that the increase in the cardiothoracic ratio in primary pulmonary hypertension is caused mainly by right heart failure.", "PMID": 446173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7437", "title": "Myocardial supply-demand ratio in aortic regurgitation.", "content": "To analyze the relationship between the myocardial supply and demand for oxygen in patients with aortic regurgitation, the ratio of the diastolic pressure-time index (DPTI) over the systolic pressure-time index (SPTI) was derived from recordings of pressure during cardiac catheterization in 24 patients with aortic regurgitation, and this ratio was compared with that in 14 normal subjects and in ten patients with congestive cardiomyopathy (an ejection fraction less than 0.30). Patients with aortic regurgitation had a DPTI/SPTI of 0.75 +/- 0.06 (mean +/- SE), which was lower than in the normal subjects (1.24 +/- 0.06) and patients with cardiomyopathy (1.06 +/- 0.03) (P less than 0.001). Among the patients with aortic regurgitation, the 13 with a DPTI/SPTI below 0.70 had more severe aortic regurgitation than the 11 with a DPTI/SPTI above 0.70. Aortic regurgitation results in a reduced myocardial supply-demand ratio, as measured by the DPTI/SPTI, which is related to the severity of the valvular regurgitation and is not present in patients with left ventricular dysfunction secondary to congestive cardiomyopathy.", "contents": "Myocardial supply-demand ratio in aortic regurgitation. To analyze the relationship between the myocardial supply and demand for oxygen in patients with aortic regurgitation, the ratio of the diastolic pressure-time index (DPTI) over the systolic pressure-time index (SPTI) was derived from recordings of pressure during cardiac catheterization in 24 patients with aortic regurgitation, and this ratio was compared with that in 14 normal subjects and in ten patients with congestive cardiomyopathy (an ejection fraction less than 0.30). Patients with aortic regurgitation had a DPTI/SPTI of 0.75 +/- 0.06 (mean +/- SE), which was lower than in the normal subjects (1.24 +/- 0.06) and patients with cardiomyopathy (1.06 +/- 0.03) (P less than 0.001). Among the patients with aortic regurgitation, the 13 with a DPTI/SPTI below 0.70 had more severe aortic regurgitation than the 11 with a DPTI/SPTI above 0.70. Aortic regurgitation results in a reduced myocardial supply-demand ratio, as measured by the DPTI/SPTI, which is related to the severity of the valvular regurgitation and is not present in patients with left ventricular dysfunction secondary to congestive cardiomyopathy.", "PMID": 446174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7438", "title": "Fiberoptic bronchoscopic nasotracheal intubation in children.", "content": "A new method for nasotracheal intubation of infants and young children is described. This method offers a smooth, reliable, and rapid means of entry into these children's airways in a safe and efficient manner in a wide variety of cardiorespiratory illnesses. This technique should be reserved for well-trained physicians with adequate equipment and experience. It is an optional technique for intubation that should be available in all modern general and children's hospitals throughout the country.", "contents": "Fiberoptic bronchoscopic nasotracheal intubation in children. A new method for nasotracheal intubation of infants and young children is described. This method offers a smooth, reliable, and rapid means of entry into these children's airways in a safe and efficient manner in a wide variety of cardiorespiratory illnesses. This technique should be reserved for well-trained physicians with adequate equipment and experience. It is an optional technique for intubation that should be available in all modern general and children's hospitals throughout the country.", "PMID": 446175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7439", "title": "Constancy of effort and variability of maximal expiratory flow rates.", "content": "In 14 normal subjects and in 13 patients with obstructive pulmonary diseases, we studied the variability within an individual of values for the maximal expiratory flow rate (Vmax) recorded simultaneously vs expired pulmonary volume (at the mouth) and vs thoracic volume (measured with a body plethysmograph). We found that the variance of Vmax within an individual at 25, 50, and 75 percent of the expired vital capacity did not differ statistically whether pulmonary volume was the expired or the thoracic gas volume. In ten healthy subjects on two occasions (at an interval of 12 days, on the average), we measured the peak expiratory flow rate and Vmax at different levels of inflation, with respect to either expired or thoracic volume. There was no statistical differences in Vmax between the first and the last day. A larger variability of Vmax measured vs expired volume implies a change in the expiratory effort from one forced expiration to another and a different degree of compression of intrathoracic air. Since this was not the case, we conclude that muscular effort during repeated forced expirations is similar. The good reproducibility of effort explains in great measure the good reproducibility of Vmax.", "contents": "Constancy of effort and variability of maximal expiratory flow rates. In 14 normal subjects and in 13 patients with obstructive pulmonary diseases, we studied the variability within an individual of values for the maximal expiratory flow rate (Vmax) recorded simultaneously vs expired pulmonary volume (at the mouth) and vs thoracic volume (measured with a body plethysmograph). We found that the variance of Vmax within an individual at 25, 50, and 75 percent of the expired vital capacity did not differ statistically whether pulmonary volume was the expired or the thoracic gas volume. In ten healthy subjects on two occasions (at an interval of 12 days, on the average), we measured the peak expiratory flow rate and Vmax at different levels of inflation, with respect to either expired or thoracic volume. There was no statistical differences in Vmax between the first and the last day. A larger variability of Vmax measured vs expired volume implies a change in the expiratory effort from one forced expiration to another and a different degree of compression of intrathoracic air. Since this was not the case, we conclude that muscular effort during repeated forced expirations is similar. The good reproducibility of effort explains in great measure the good reproducibility of Vmax.", "PMID": 446176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7440", "title": "Measurement of regional lung function by tetrapolar electrical impedance plethysmography.", "content": "This study demonstrates the clinical feasibility of atraumatically measuring dynamic regional lung function with tetrapolar electrical impedance plethysmography (EIP) in the pediatric age group. A tetrapolar electrode system was used because of its ability to detect local baseline and pulsatile impedance changes, minimal electrode-tissue impedance interference, and uniform current distribution. Studies performed on 4 children 4 to 15 years old with various pulmonary diseases are presented. The information obtained on their regional ventilation and pulsatile perfusion by EIP was found to agree closely with pulmonary ventilation and perfusion scans. In one case, EIP detected pulsatile perfusion abnormalities which were not apparent in the non-pulsatile perfusion scan but were demonstrated by cineangiography. It is concluded that tetrapolar EIP can provide safe, reliable regional information about ventilation and perfusion in diseased lungs, and because of its atraumatic approach, is technically most suitable for use in children.", "contents": "Measurement of regional lung function by tetrapolar electrical impedance plethysmography. This study demonstrates the clinical feasibility of atraumatically measuring dynamic regional lung function with tetrapolar electrical impedance plethysmography (EIP) in the pediatric age group. A tetrapolar electrode system was used because of its ability to detect local baseline and pulsatile impedance changes, minimal electrode-tissue impedance interference, and uniform current distribution. Studies performed on 4 children 4 to 15 years old with various pulmonary diseases are presented. The information obtained on their regional ventilation and pulsatile perfusion by EIP was found to agree closely with pulmonary ventilation and perfusion scans. In one case, EIP detected pulsatile perfusion abnormalities which were not apparent in the non-pulsatile perfusion scan but were demonstrated by cineangiography. It is concluded that tetrapolar EIP can provide safe, reliable regional information about ventilation and perfusion in diseased lungs, and because of its atraumatic approach, is technically most suitable for use in children.", "PMID": 446177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7441", "title": "Selection of patients with hemoptysis for fiberoptic bronchoscopy.", "content": "One hundred ten hospitalized patients with hemoptysis were reviewed to identify factors that would characterize those with malignancy and to evaluate the usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB) in the diagnosis of hemoptysis. Seventy patients underwent FB. This procedure was diagnostic in 22/28 (79 percent) of the carcinoma patients and in 26/42 (62 percent) of the patients with a nonmalignant cause of hemoptysis. The following three characteristics indicate a high probability of malignancy: 1) age greater than 40 years, 2) any abnormality on the chest roentgenogram, 3) hemoptysis lasting greater than one week. If any of these factors are present, FB should be done. Other factors to be considered include presence of anemia, weight loss, persistent cough, long smoking history and risk of bronchoscopic complications.", "contents": "Selection of patients with hemoptysis for fiberoptic bronchoscopy. One hundred ten hospitalized patients with hemoptysis were reviewed to identify factors that would characterize those with malignancy and to evaluate the usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB) in the diagnosis of hemoptysis. Seventy patients underwent FB. This procedure was diagnostic in 22/28 (79 percent) of the carcinoma patients and in 26/42 (62 percent) of the patients with a nonmalignant cause of hemoptysis. The following three characteristics indicate a high probability of malignancy: 1) age greater than 40 years, 2) any abnormality on the chest roentgenogram, 3) hemoptysis lasting greater than one week. If any of these factors are present, FB should be done. Other factors to be considered include presence of anemia, weight loss, persistent cough, long smoking history and risk of bronchoscopic complications.", "PMID": 446178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7442", "title": "Echocardiographic analysis of systolic and diastolic left ventricular wall motion in normal man.", "content": "Although the motion of the left ventricular wall has been examined by angiographic and by echocardiographic studies in both experimental animals and in man, there are no complete studies of the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall throughout the entire cardiac cycle. Because the posterior wall can be demonstrated echocardiographically in essentially all patients, it offers a potential of wide clinical application in the evaluation of left ventricular function. This study was undertaken to provide a detailed inclusive analysis of the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall. In 64 human volunteers the echocardiographic movements of the left ventricular posterior wall were identified. Using the R wave of the electrocardiogram as a reference and to identify phases of the cardiac cycle, each movement of the left ventricular posterior wall was temporally related to aortic or mitral valvular movements (or both). In a subset of 14 subjects, dual M-mode echocardiograms confirmed the validity of these temporal relationships. In three subjects, high-fidelity recordings from catheter tip micromanometers were made simultaneously with the echocardiogram to permit description of the temporal relationships between pressure and motion. Results of this study provide a base of normal data for comparison with the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall in a variety of diseases and in response to therapy.", "contents": "Echocardiographic analysis of systolic and diastolic left ventricular wall motion in normal man. Although the motion of the left ventricular wall has been examined by angiographic and by echocardiographic studies in both experimental animals and in man, there are no complete studies of the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall throughout the entire cardiac cycle. Because the posterior wall can be demonstrated echocardiographically in essentially all patients, it offers a potential of wide clinical application in the evaluation of left ventricular function. This study was undertaken to provide a detailed inclusive analysis of the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall. In 64 human volunteers the echocardiographic movements of the left ventricular posterior wall were identified. Using the R wave of the electrocardiogram as a reference and to identify phases of the cardiac cycle, each movement of the left ventricular posterior wall was temporally related to aortic or mitral valvular movements (or both). In a subset of 14 subjects, dual M-mode echocardiograms confirmed the validity of these temporal relationships. In three subjects, high-fidelity recordings from catheter tip micromanometers were made simultaneously with the echocardiogram to permit description of the temporal relationships between pressure and motion. Results of this study provide a base of normal data for comparison with the motion of the left ventricular posterior wall in a variety of diseases and in response to therapy.", "PMID": 446179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7443", "title": "Single-breath nitrogen washout; effects of alterations of lung volumes and elastic recoil.", "content": "Strapping of the chest causes decreased lung volumes and increased elastic recoil pressure. Such strapping was used in conjunction with single-breath nitrogen washout to study the effects of changes in these factors on the dynamics of the small airways. Studies consisted of simultaneous measurements of the quasistatic lung pressure-volume curve and single-breath nitrogen washout. Strapping caused significant reductions in all lung volumes and in lung compliance at 50 percent of the total lung capacity (TLC). The volume of phase 4 was not changed; however, the ratio of closing capacity to control TLC decreased from 29.9 +/- 6 percent to 24.2 +/- 4 percent with strapping (P less than 0.02). This observation indicates that the onset of closing volumes occurred at a lower absolute lung volume during strapping, compared with control. The closing pressure of 2.1 +/- 0.8 cm H2O was not altered by strapping of the chest. The slope of phase 3 of the single-breath nitrogen-washout test and the average alveolar concentration of nitrogen were increased during strapping. A similar phenomenon occurred in three subjects who performed the single-breath nitrogen-washout test following partial vital capacities. A reduction of the onset of closure of the airways without a change in closing pressure suggests that restrictions of the chest wall caused no change in mechanical properties of the small airways. Elevation of the slope of the alveolar plateau is probably due to exaggeration of the apex-to-base nitrogen difference consequent to the strapping-associated decreased lung and alveolar compliance.", "contents": "Single-breath nitrogen washout; effects of alterations of lung volumes and elastic recoil. Strapping of the chest causes decreased lung volumes and increased elastic recoil pressure. Such strapping was used in conjunction with single-breath nitrogen washout to study the effects of changes in these factors on the dynamics of the small airways. Studies consisted of simultaneous measurements of the quasistatic lung pressure-volume curve and single-breath nitrogen washout. Strapping caused significant reductions in all lung volumes and in lung compliance at 50 percent of the total lung capacity (TLC). The volume of phase 4 was not changed; however, the ratio of closing capacity to control TLC decreased from 29.9 +/- 6 percent to 24.2 +/- 4 percent with strapping (P less than 0.02). This observation indicates that the onset of closing volumes occurred at a lower absolute lung volume during strapping, compared with control. The closing pressure of 2.1 +/- 0.8 cm H2O was not altered by strapping of the chest. The slope of phase 3 of the single-breath nitrogen-washout test and the average alveolar concentration of nitrogen were increased during strapping. A similar phenomenon occurred in three subjects who performed the single-breath nitrogen-washout test following partial vital capacities. A reduction of the onset of closure of the airways without a change in closing pressure suggests that restrictions of the chest wall caused no change in mechanical properties of the small airways. Elevation of the slope of the alveolar plateau is probably due to exaggeration of the apex-to-base nitrogen difference consequent to the strapping-associated decreased lung and alveolar compliance.", "PMID": 446180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7444", "title": "Mitral valve fluttering; an echocardiographic feature of left atrial myxoma.", "content": "A patient with crescendo angina and severe three-vessel coronary disease had a left atrial myxoma found incidentally and which was removed during coronary bypass surgery. Preoperative echocardiogram revealed only coarse diastolic mitral valve fluttering without other echocardiographic features of left atrial myxoma. Postoperative echocardiogram showed disappearance of mitral valve fluttering. The isolated finding of diastolic mitral valve fluttering by echocardiography may be associated with occult left atrial myxoma.", "contents": "Mitral valve fluttering; an echocardiographic feature of left atrial myxoma. A patient with crescendo angina and severe three-vessel coronary disease had a left atrial myxoma found incidentally and which was removed during coronary bypass surgery. Preoperative echocardiogram revealed only coarse diastolic mitral valve fluttering without other echocardiographic features of left atrial myxoma. Postoperative echocardiogram showed disappearance of mitral valve fluttering. The isolated finding of diastolic mitral valve fluttering by echocardiography may be associated with occult left atrial myxoma.", "PMID": 446184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7445", "title": "Intoxication with ajmaline in an infant.", "content": "We present a case of overdosage of ajmaline in an infant. The appearance of atactic gait and clonic tonic seizures were followed by loss of consciousness, apnea, supraventricular tachycardia, left bundle-branch block, and a prolonged Q-T interval. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, gastric lavage, and forced diuresis were followed by complete recovery. Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring is mandatory in these cases, and the use of a cardiac pacemaker, respirator, and therapy with antiarrhythmic agents should be considered.", "contents": "Intoxication with ajmaline in an infant. We present a case of overdosage of ajmaline in an infant. The appearance of atactic gait and clonic tonic seizures were followed by loss of consciousness, apnea, supraventricular tachycardia, left bundle-branch block, and a prolonged Q-T interval. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, gastric lavage, and forced diuresis were followed by complete recovery. Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring is mandatory in these cases, and the use of a cardiac pacemaker, respirator, and therapy with antiarrhythmic agents should be considered.", "PMID": 446185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7446", "title": "Hemoptysis in patients with septic pulmonary infarcts from tricuspid endocarditis.", "content": "Three drug addicts with tricuspid valve endocarditis and pulmonary cavitation secondary to septic pulmonary infarcts developed massive hemoptysis. Two patients died of asphyxia and one survived. Both who died were improving clinically and had negative blood cultures when the fatal hemoptysis occurred. Therefore, however slight it may be, hemoptysis occurring in association with septic pulmonary infarcts associated with endocarditis may require prompt and aggressive measures.", "contents": "Hemoptysis in patients with septic pulmonary infarcts from tricuspid endocarditis. Three drug addicts with tricuspid valve endocarditis and pulmonary cavitation secondary to septic pulmonary infarcts developed massive hemoptysis. Two patients died of asphyxia and one survived. Both who died were improving clinically and had negative blood cultures when the fatal hemoptysis occurred. Therefore, however slight it may be, hemoptysis occurring in association with septic pulmonary infarcts associated with endocarditis may require prompt and aggressive measures.", "PMID": 446186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7447", "title": "Effects of 5-fluorouracil on the thiamin status of adult female rats.", "content": "The effect of 5-fluorouracil on the thiamin status of normal female adult rats has been investigated. Pre-treatment of the animals with the cytotoxic drug daily for 3 successive days resulted in a significant decrease in hepatic concentrations of thiamin concomitant with a decrease in thiamin-dependent transketolase enzyme activity and an increase in thiamin-pyrophosphate-(TPP-)stimulating effect in whole blood when compared with those of pair-fed control animals. The TPP effect of transketolase enzyme activity was also increased by 5-fluorouracil in vitro. Furthermore, the treatment with 5-fluorouracil resulted in decreased liver and spleen concentrations without affecting the urinary excretory levels of thiamin in animals supplemented with large doses of the vitamin. Giving a dose comparable to a human therapeutic dose caused a similar increase in the TPP effect. These results indicate that treatment with 5-fluorouracil may be associated with thiamin deficiency by increasing either the utilization or the breakdown of thiamin.", "contents": "Effects of 5-fluorouracil on the thiamin status of adult female rats. The effect of 5-fluorouracil on the thiamin status of normal female adult rats has been investigated. Pre-treatment of the animals with the cytotoxic drug daily for 3 successive days resulted in a significant decrease in hepatic concentrations of thiamin concomitant with a decrease in thiamin-dependent transketolase enzyme activity and an increase in thiamin-pyrophosphate-(TPP-)stimulating effect in whole blood when compared with those of pair-fed control animals. The TPP effect of transketolase enzyme activity was also increased by 5-fluorouracil in vitro. Furthermore, the treatment with 5-fluorouracil resulted in decreased liver and spleen concentrations without affecting the urinary excretory levels of thiamin in animals supplemented with large doses of the vitamin. Giving a dose comparable to a human therapeutic dose caused a similar increase in the TPP effect. These results indicate that treatment with 5-fluorouracil may be associated with thiamin deficiency by increasing either the utilization or the breakdown of thiamin.", "PMID": 446187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7448", "title": "A comparison of the in vitro activities of sulfamethoxazole and sulfadiazine combinations with trimethoprim.", "content": "The sensitivity of 125 strains of 13 species or genera of bacteria to sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), sulfadiazine (SDZ), trimethoprim (TMP), SMZ + TMP and SDZ + TMP was determined by means of trays. A comparison of all combinations of the different concentrations used shows that SMZ + TMP is in 1 case and SDZ + TMP in 4 cases more effective against the 13 species or genera tested than the other combinations. SMZ and SDZ were equally effective in synergistic action (as shown by the FIC indices) against the various kinds of bacteria.", "contents": "A comparison of the in vitro activities of sulfamethoxazole and sulfadiazine combinations with trimethoprim. The sensitivity of 125 strains of 13 species or genera of bacteria to sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), sulfadiazine (SDZ), trimethoprim (TMP), SMZ + TMP and SDZ + TMP was determined by means of trays. A comparison of all combinations of the different concentrations used shows that SMZ + TMP is in 1 case and SDZ + TMP in 4 cases more effective against the 13 species or genera tested than the other combinations. SMZ and SDZ were equally effective in synergistic action (as shown by the FIC indices) against the various kinds of bacteria.", "PMID": 446188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7449", "title": "Microbiological and pharmacological evaluation, in mice and rats, of a new nitrofuran: 2-amino-4-methyl-6-(2-ethinyl-5-nitrofuryl)-pyrimidine (nifurpyrimidine).", "content": "2-Amino-4-methyl-6-(2-ethinyl-5-nitrofuryl)-pyrimidine (nifurpyrimidine) is a new furan derivative. Its spectrum of activity is wide and includes both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms and fungi; moreover, it inhibits the growth of multiple-drug resistant salmonellae. The minimal inhibitory concentrations ranged from 0.25 to 10 microgram/ml. Resistance was developed in vitro in a step-wise manner and was partially reversed after 7-10 passages in drug-free media. The pharmacological study of the drug was carried out in rats and mice and gave the following results: (1) no acute toxicity was demonstrable following oral administration; (2) no intestinal absorption occurred and virtually the whole dose of nifurpyrimidine administered by oral route was recovered in the intestinal content; (3) the presence of urine, plasma or feces did not modify the antibacterial activity of the compound.", "contents": "Microbiological and pharmacological evaluation, in mice and rats, of a new nitrofuran: 2-amino-4-methyl-6-(2-ethinyl-5-nitrofuryl)-pyrimidine (nifurpyrimidine). 2-Amino-4-methyl-6-(2-ethinyl-5-nitrofuryl)-pyrimidine (nifurpyrimidine) is a new furan derivative. Its spectrum of activity is wide and includes both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms and fungi; moreover, it inhibits the growth of multiple-drug resistant salmonellae. The minimal inhibitory concentrations ranged from 0.25 to 10 microgram/ml. Resistance was developed in vitro in a step-wise manner and was partially reversed after 7-10 passages in drug-free media. The pharmacological study of the drug was carried out in rats and mice and gave the following results: (1) no acute toxicity was demonstrable following oral administration; (2) no intestinal absorption occurred and virtually the whole dose of nifurpyrimidine administered by oral route was recovered in the intestinal content; (3) the presence of urine, plasma or feces did not modify the antibacterial activity of the compound.", "PMID": 446189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7450", "title": "The physiopathogenetic basis for the angiographic diagnosis of bacterial infections of the brain and its coverings in children. I. Leptomeningitis.", "content": "This is a descriptive analysis of the angiographic characteristics of leptomeningeal infections in 36 children and a correlation of these angiographic observations with anatomopathologic changes. Vascular, meningeal and parenchymal changes are described and discussed. In the normal situation, tracer protein particles injected into the subarachnoid space perfuse easily through the extracellular spaces but stop at the outer continuous arachnoidal layer. The parenchymal layer, pia-arachnoid, on the other hand, consists of a uni or pluricellular layer which is regularly crossed by tracer particles. Though the internal carotid, vertebral and basilar arteries have some anatomical characteristics: thinner tunica media and adventitia, the absence of vasa vasorum and the presence of a fluid cushion (CSF) in which they are bathed. The most striking angiographic observation in leptomeningitis is the transmural extravasation of the contrast meding 'halo' formation. Long after the cerebral circulation time, one may identify contrast media 'pooling' within the cisterns and sulci.", "contents": "The physiopathogenetic basis for the angiographic diagnosis of bacterial infections of the brain and its coverings in children. I. Leptomeningitis. This is a descriptive analysis of the angiographic characteristics of leptomeningeal infections in 36 children and a correlation of these angiographic observations with anatomopathologic changes. Vascular, meningeal and parenchymal changes are described and discussed. In the normal situation, tracer protein particles injected into the subarachnoid space perfuse easily through the extracellular spaces but stop at the outer continuous arachnoidal layer. The parenchymal layer, pia-arachnoid, on the other hand, consists of a uni or pluricellular layer which is regularly crossed by tracer particles. Though the internal carotid, vertebral and basilar arteries have some anatomical characteristics: thinner tunica media and adventitia, the absence of vasa vasorum and the presence of a fluid cushion (CSF) in which they are bathed. The most striking angiographic observation in leptomeningitis is the transmural extravasation of the contrast meding 'halo' formation. Long after the cerebral circulation time, one may identify contrast media 'pooling' within the cisterns and sulci.", "PMID": 446190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7451", "title": "Experimental progressive hydrocephalus in the young animal.", "content": "22 puppies with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus were repeatedly studied for 4 months in respect to their head size, ventricular size, pressure and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics. The intraventricular pressure was markedly elevated during the first week and dropped towards the end of the first month of the hydrocephalic process. It then escalated and again returned to normal values after 3--4 months. Formation of CSF increased with age until it reached adult values of 0.049 ml/min at the age of 3 months. Absorption rates were very low initially. The absorptive capacity surpassed formation in the puppies which survived to the fourth month of the process. Ventricular size and rate of head enlargement correlated inversely with thickness of the skull. In the surviving puppies (4 out of 22) the hydrocephalic process seemed to have arrested.", "contents": "Experimental progressive hydrocephalus in the young animal. 22 puppies with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus were repeatedly studied for 4 months in respect to their head size, ventricular size, pressure and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics. The intraventricular pressure was markedly elevated during the first week and dropped towards the end of the first month of the hydrocephalic process. It then escalated and again returned to normal values after 3--4 months. Formation of CSF increased with age until it reached adult values of 0.049 ml/min at the age of 3 months. Absorption rates were very low initially. The absorptive capacity surpassed formation in the puppies which survived to the fourth month of the process. Ventricular size and rate of head enlargement correlated inversely with thickness of the skull. In the surviving puppies (4 out of 22) the hydrocephalic process seemed to have arrested.", "PMID": 446191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7452", "title": "Problems of diagnosis and treatment in the Dandy-Walker syndrome.", "content": "10 children with Dandy-Walker syndrome are presented to discuss their clinical assessment and therapy. The presence on physical examination of a large posterior fossa was the most reliable clinical finding and was diagnostic in 9 out of the 10 patients. The different diagnostic confirmatory studies are discussed. The most satisfactory treatment in this series was the combination of a shunt from the lateral ventricle and the posterior fossa to the peritoneum.", "contents": "Problems of diagnosis and treatment in the Dandy-Walker syndrome. 10 children with Dandy-Walker syndrome are presented to discuss their clinical assessment and therapy. The presence on physical examination of a large posterior fossa was the most reliable clinical finding and was diagnostic in 9 out of the 10 patients. The different diagnostic confirmatory studies are discussed. The most satisfactory treatment in this series was the combination of a shunt from the lateral ventricle and the posterior fossa to the peritoneum.", "PMID": 446192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7453", "title": "Brain tumors in childhood.", "content": "A review of the pathology of 689 neuroectodermal tumors occurring over a 30-year period at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has underlined the importance of examining the tissue from each tumor in order to insure consistency and accuracy in histological diagnosis. The age, sex, histology and topographical distribution of this series of tumors is compared with other series and discussed in detail. The high proportion of tumors occurring in early childhood, the striking male preponderance, and the high incidence of astrocytomas, medulloblastomas and ependymomas is emphasized.", "contents": "Brain tumors in childhood. A review of the pathology of 689 neuroectodermal tumors occurring over a 30-year period at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has underlined the importance of examining the tissue from each tumor in order to insure consistency and accuracy in histological diagnosis. The age, sex, histology and topographical distribution of this series of tumors is compared with other series and discussed in detail. The high proportion of tumors occurring in early childhood, the striking male preponderance, and the high incidence of astrocytomas, medulloblastomas and ependymomas is emphasized.", "PMID": 446193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7454", "title": "Ventriculopleural shunting in the management of hydrocephalus.", "content": "6 cases of ventriculopleural shunting for control of hydrocephalus are presented. In the other child and adult, drainage of cerebrospinal fluid into the pleural cavity seems to be well tolerated in exceptional circumstances where other shunt procedures, including intracranial shunts, are contraindicated. In the infant and young child, accumulation of fluid in the pleural space is enchanced by a poorly understood immune-related mechanism and may lead to significant pulmonary dysfunction. On the basis of our experience, this procedure appears contraindicated in this age-group.", "contents": "Ventriculopleural shunting in the management of hydrocephalus. 6 cases of ventriculopleural shunting for control of hydrocephalus are presented. In the other child and adult, drainage of cerebrospinal fluid into the pleural cavity seems to be well tolerated in exceptional circumstances where other shunt procedures, including intracranial shunts, are contraindicated. In the infant and young child, accumulation of fluid in the pleural space is enchanced by a poorly understood immune-related mechanism and may lead to significant pulmonary dysfunction. On the basis of our experience, this procedure appears contraindicated in this age-group.", "PMID": 446194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7455", "title": "Computed tomography of Sturge-Weber disease.", "content": "Findings in computed tomography (CT) with or without contrast infusion were analyzed in 8 patients with Sturge-Weber disease. From the extent of calcification in the CT, Sturge-Weber disease can be classified into two types, localized and diffuse. The extent of calcification or cortical atrophy is predictable, if it can be shown that enhanced areas in contrast infusion CT truly represent leptomeningeal angiomatosis. Thus, using enhanced CT, the capacity of prediciton as to whether the patient will have a localized or diffuse type of disease will be possible with further observations.", "contents": "Computed tomography of Sturge-Weber disease. Findings in computed tomography (CT) with or without contrast infusion were analyzed in 8 patients with Sturge-Weber disease. From the extent of calcification in the CT, Sturge-Weber disease can be classified into two types, localized and diffuse. The extent of calcification or cortical atrophy is predictable, if it can be shown that enhanced areas in contrast infusion CT truly represent leptomeningeal angiomatosis. Thus, using enhanced CT, the capacity of prediciton as to whether the patient will have a localized or diffuse type of disease will be possible with further observations.", "PMID": 446195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7456", "title": "Cerebral medulloepithelioma. Report of a case with multiple divergent neuroepithelial differentiation.", "content": "A cerebral medulloepithelioma, a rare embryonal multipotential central neuroepithelial neoplasm of childhood, is described, bringing to 16 the total number of cases reported in the literature. It is the first example recorded to date which displayed the entire range of differentiation from embryonal to mature cells, of both glial and neuronal lineage (i.e., primitive medullary epithelium, spongioblasts, astrocytes, oligodendroglia, ependymal cells, neuroblasts, and mature ganglion cells). The significance of this tumor as a paradigm of multipotential divergent neuroepithelial differentiation is discussed.", "contents": "Cerebral medulloepithelioma. Report of a case with multiple divergent neuroepithelial differentiation. A cerebral medulloepithelioma, a rare embryonal multipotential central neuroepithelial neoplasm of childhood, is described, bringing to 16 the total number of cases reported in the literature. It is the first example recorded to date which displayed the entire range of differentiation from embryonal to mature cells, of both glial and neuronal lineage (i.e., primitive medullary epithelium, spongioblasts, astrocytes, oligodendroglia, ependymal cells, neuroblasts, and mature ganglion cells). The significance of this tumor as a paradigm of multipotential divergent neuroepithelial differentiation is discussed.", "PMID": 446196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7457", "title": "Two levels of inferential behavior in young children.", "content": "5- and 6-year-old children made inferences about the spatial locations of animals and people in a series of 3 experiments. The tasks employed manipulable models to represent the spatial relations involved and were made as simple as possible. 2 levels of inferential behavior were found. The first constituted the ability to draw an inference consistent with information given, but with minimal understanding of the way in which inferences can assist in decisions between alternative outcomes. At the second level, children succeeded in discriminating inferences which were logically necessary from those which were merely consistent with the premises. Most 5-year-olds were at the first level, most 6-year-olds at the second level. 2 criteria for the identification of young children's behavior as inferential were established, and the results of the present study were discussed in terms of recent related work with both younger and older children.", "contents": "Two levels of inferential behavior in young children. 5- and 6-year-old children made inferences about the spatial locations of animals and people in a series of 3 experiments. The tasks employed manipulable models to represent the spatial relations involved and were made as simple as possible. 2 levels of inferential behavior were found. The first constituted the ability to draw an inference consistent with information given, but with minimal understanding of the way in which inferences can assist in decisions between alternative outcomes. At the second level, children succeeded in discriminating inferences which were logically necessary from those which were merely consistent with the premises. Most 5-year-olds were at the first level, most 6-year-olds at the second level. 2 criteria for the identification of young children's behavior as inferential were established, and the results of the present study were discussed in terms of recent related work with both younger and older children.", "PMID": 446197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7458", "title": "Changes with age in measures of processing efficiency.", "content": "Children of 3 ages (8, 10, and 12 years) and adults were asked to decide rapidly whether 2 line drawings were same or different based on either physical appearance (physical match) or name information (name match). Reaction times were used to estimate several temporal measures of information-processing efficiency, such as the difference between different and same judgments, the difference between name-match and physical-match judgments, and 2 types of interference. Different judgments required more time than same judgments for children but not for adults, and the difference between these decreased with age. As expected, name judgments required more time than physical judgments, but the difference did not decrease regularly with age. Interference in name-match decisions due to conflicting and irrelevant physical information decreased with age; however, interference in physical-match judgments due to conflicting and irrelevant name information does not decline with age and was a significant factor in the performance of older children and adults. The results underscore the complex character of developmental change in processing efficiency.", "contents": "Changes with age in measures of processing efficiency. Children of 3 ages (8, 10, and 12 years) and adults were asked to decide rapidly whether 2 line drawings were same or different based on either physical appearance (physical match) or name information (name match). Reaction times were used to estimate several temporal measures of information-processing efficiency, such as the difference between different and same judgments, the difference between name-match and physical-match judgments, and 2 types of interference. Different judgments required more time than same judgments for children but not for adults, and the difference between these decreased with age. As expected, name judgments required more time than physical judgments, but the difference did not decrease regularly with age. Interference in name-match decisions due to conflicting and irrelevant physical information decreased with age; however, interference in physical-match judgments due to conflicting and irrelevant name information does not decline with age and was a significant factor in the performance of older children and adults. The results underscore the complex character of developmental change in processing efficiency.", "PMID": 446198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7459", "title": "Linguistic experience and phonemic perception in infancy: a crosslinguistic study.", "content": "English- and Spanish-learning infants were tested for perception of 2 synthetic speech contrasts differing in voice onset time. The 2 pairs were chosen so that they were native to either Spanish or English. Using the Visually Reinforced Infant Speech Discrimination (VRISD) paradigm, 6--8-month-old infants were taught to respond to a change in auditory stimuli with a headturn. Correct headturns were reinforced by the activation of a lighted animated toy. While Spanish-learning infants provided evidence of discriminating both English and Spanish contrasts, English-learning infants only provided evidence of discriminating their native contrast. The results are discussed in terms of the role of linguistic experience in the development of speech perception skills in infancy.", "contents": "Linguistic experience and phonemic perception in infancy: a crosslinguistic study. English- and Spanish-learning infants were tested for perception of 2 synthetic speech contrasts differing in voice onset time. The 2 pairs were chosen so that they were native to either Spanish or English. Using the Visually Reinforced Infant Speech Discrimination (VRISD) paradigm, 6--8-month-old infants were taught to respond to a change in auditory stimuli with a headturn. Correct headturns were reinforced by the activation of a lighted animated toy. While Spanish-learning infants provided evidence of discriminating both English and Spanish contrasts, English-learning infants only provided evidence of discriminating their native contrast. The results are discussed in terms of the role of linguistic experience in the development of speech perception skills in infancy.", "PMID": 446199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7460", "title": "A conditioning analysis of infant long-term memory.", "content": "The long-term retention of conditioned operant footkicks by 3-month-old infants was assessed in 2 studies. In both, infants were trained in a conjugate reinforcement paradigm in which footkicks produced conjugate activation of the components of an overhead crib mobile. After 2 training sessions, retention (cued recall, savings) was assessed cross-sectionally in a third session scheduled after varying intervals. In experiment 1, 32 infants were tested after intervals of 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours; in experiment 2, 24 infants were tested after 96, 144, 192, or 336 hours. No evidence of forgetting was observed for as long as 192 hours following original training. Although both retention measures indicated a significant memory deficit in the group tested after 336 hours (2 weeks), some individuals continued to exhibit substantial recall and savings after this retention interval. A conditioning analysis was viewed as a logical means by which to bridge the gap between animal and adult human models of memory.", "contents": "A conditioning analysis of infant long-term memory. The long-term retention of conditioned operant footkicks by 3-month-old infants was assessed in 2 studies. In both, infants were trained in a conjugate reinforcement paradigm in which footkicks produced conjugate activation of the components of an overhead crib mobile. After 2 training sessions, retention (cued recall, savings) was assessed cross-sectionally in a third session scheduled after varying intervals. In experiment 1, 32 infants were tested after intervals of 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours; in experiment 2, 24 infants were tested after 96, 144, 192, or 336 hours. No evidence of forgetting was observed for as long as 192 hours following original training. Although both retention measures indicated a significant memory deficit in the group tested after 336 hours (2 weeks), some individuals continued to exhibit substantial recall and savings after this retention interval. A conditioning analysis was viewed as a logical means by which to bridge the gap between animal and adult human models of memory.", "PMID": 446200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7461", "title": "Developmental relations between notational counting and number conservation.", "content": "The 2 studies of this report sought to determine the developmental relationship between the child's use of counting as a notational symbol system to extract, compare, and reproduce numerical information and the development of number conservation. In study 1, children between 4 and 6 years of age were administered notational-counting and number-conservation tasks. Analysis of children's profiles across tasks indicated that children develop quantitative counting strategies (but do not necessarily count accurately) before they develop number-conservation concepts. In study 2, the generality of this sequence was tested. A population of 7- to 9-year-old \"learning-disabled\" children who reportedly were developing atypical counting skills were administered notational-counting and number-conservation tasks. All of these children who conserved number also used quantitative counting strategies, although some of these children frequently counted arrays inaccurately. The significance of these findings is discussed with respect to existing models of counting/number-conservation relations, and an alternative formulation is suggested based upon the new findings.", "contents": "Developmental relations between notational counting and number conservation. The 2 studies of this report sought to determine the developmental relationship between the child's use of counting as a notational symbol system to extract, compare, and reproduce numerical information and the development of number conservation. In study 1, children between 4 and 6 years of age were administered notational-counting and number-conservation tasks. Analysis of children's profiles across tasks indicated that children develop quantitative counting strategies (but do not necessarily count accurately) before they develop number-conservation concepts. In study 2, the generality of this sequence was tested. A population of 7- to 9-year-old \"learning-disabled\" children who reportedly were developing atypical counting skills were administered notational-counting and number-conservation tasks. All of these children who conserved number also used quantitative counting strategies, although some of these children frequently counted arrays inaccurately. The significance of these findings is discussed with respect to existing models of counting/number-conservation relations, and an alternative formulation is suggested based upon the new findings.", "PMID": 446202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7462", "title": "Visual and cardiac responses to animate and inanimate faces by young term and preterm infants.", "content": "Infants' looking and looking-away behaviors, as well as cardiac responses to mothers' spontaneous and imitative and to dolls' animated and still faces, were recorded for 18 term and 18 preterm infants when they were 3 months old. Infants spent less time looking at their mothers' than at the doll's faces, and their heart-rate levels were elevated while looking at mothers' faces. These effects were most pronounced for the preterm infants whose inferior scores on the animate visual item of the Brazelton neonatal scale suggested a continuity of visual inattentiveness to animate stimuli. Both groups also looked at the inanimate more than the animate doll's face and evidenced lower heart-rate levels during that situation. An information-processing/arousal-modulation interpretation was made for infant looking-away behavior and elevated heart rate during the more arousing mother's-face situations.", "contents": "Visual and cardiac responses to animate and inanimate faces by young term and preterm infants. Infants' looking and looking-away behaviors, as well as cardiac responses to mothers' spontaneous and imitative and to dolls' animated and still faces, were recorded for 18 term and 18 preterm infants when they were 3 months old. Infants spent less time looking at their mothers' than at the doll's faces, and their heart-rate levels were elevated while looking at mothers' faces. These effects were most pronounced for the preterm infants whose inferior scores on the animate visual item of the Brazelton neonatal scale suggested a continuity of visual inattentiveness to animate stimuli. Both groups also looked at the inanimate more than the animate doll's face and evidenced lower heart-rate levels during that situation. An information-processing/arousal-modulation interpretation was made for infant looking-away behavior and elevated heart rate during the more arousing mother's-face situations.", "PMID": 446203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7463", "title": "Children's imitations of lexical items.", "content": "3 experiments are reported in which the role of imitation in the acquisition of certain lexical items and factors influencing children's tendency to imitate these lexical items were examined. Imitation did not appear to facilitate the subsequent spontaneous use of lexical items. However, children's tendency to imitate lexical items appeared to be influenced by the novelty of the lexical item and its referent, the informativeness of the referent in the situation, and the lexical orientation of the children. The results are consistent with the interpretation that children's imitations involve the use of a supplied and previously unavailable lexical item under circumstances where lexical usage is highly probable.", "contents": "Children's imitations of lexical items. 3 experiments are reported in which the role of imitation in the acquisition of certain lexical items and factors influencing children's tendency to imitate these lexical items were examined. Imitation did not appear to facilitate the subsequent spontaneous use of lexical items. However, children's tendency to imitate lexical items appeared to be influenced by the novelty of the lexical item and its referent, the informativeness of the referent in the situation, and the lexical orientation of the children. The results are consistent with the interpretation that children's imitations involve the use of a supplied and previously unavailable lexical item under circumstances where lexical usage is highly probable.", "PMID": 446204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7464", "title": "Physiological, social, and behavioral consequences of crowding on children and adolescents.", "content": "The present investigation was designed to examine systematically the effects of short-term crowding, involving close physical proximity, on children and adolescents. Fourth-, eighth-, and eleventh-grade children participated in groups of 4 under high or moderate spatial density conditions. During exposure to these conditions, physiological responses were measured, and following this experience children engaged in a cooperation-competition activity and provided self-reports related to their participation. Results demonstrated that crowding had physiological, behavioral and social consequences for the children studied. Across all grade levels, males in particular were more affected by short-term crowding, displaying the highest elevations in stress-related arousal. Following exposure to the crowding conditions, children were more competitive, despite the fact that they had all to gain from cooperating and nothing to lose. Furthermore, children reported having felt crowded, tense, annoyed, and uncomfortable as a function of the close physical proximity to others. Implications of the immediate and residual effects of crowding on the behavior and functioning of children are discussed.", "contents": "Physiological, social, and behavioral consequences of crowding on children and adolescents. The present investigation was designed to examine systematically the effects of short-term crowding, involving close physical proximity, on children and adolescents. Fourth-, eighth-, and eleventh-grade children participated in groups of 4 under high or moderate spatial density conditions. During exposure to these conditions, physiological responses were measured, and following this experience children engaged in a cooperation-competition activity and provided self-reports related to their participation. Results demonstrated that crowding had physiological, behavioral and social consequences for the children studied. Across all grade levels, males in particular were more affected by short-term crowding, displaying the highest elevations in stress-related arousal. Following exposure to the crowding conditions, children were more competitive, despite the fact that they had all to gain from cooperating and nothing to lose. Furthermore, children reported having felt crowded, tense, annoyed, and uncomfortable as a function of the close physical proximity to others. Implications of the immediate and residual effects of crowding on the behavior and functioning of children are discussed.", "PMID": 446205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7465", "title": "Developmental trends in eating rates of normal and overweight preschool children.", "content": "Eating rates (bites per interval) and other meal behaviors (number of chews, sips, talks with a neighbor, and chews per bite) were observed for 30 normal and 30 overweight white preschool children in their school cafeterias. Children were classified according to weight (overweight or normal), age (1 1/2--2 years, 3--4 years, or 5--6 years) and sex. Analysis of variance revealed that overweight preschool children demonstrated a somewhat higher rate of distinctly fewer chews per bite. Boys showed increasing chew rates with increasing age. Talk rates also increased with age but were unrelated to sex or weight status. Sip rates were not significantly associated with age, sex, or weight status. These results support the hypothesis that overweight persons are characterized by an increased eating rate and show that it is apparent even around the time of first self-feeding.", "contents": "Developmental trends in eating rates of normal and overweight preschool children. Eating rates (bites per interval) and other meal behaviors (number of chews, sips, talks with a neighbor, and chews per bite) were observed for 30 normal and 30 overweight white preschool children in their school cafeterias. Children were classified according to weight (overweight or normal), age (1 1/2--2 years, 3--4 years, or 5--6 years) and sex. Analysis of variance revealed that overweight preschool children demonstrated a somewhat higher rate of distinctly fewer chews per bite. Boys showed increasing chew rates with increasing age. Talk rates also increased with age but were unrelated to sex or weight status. Sip rates were not significantly associated with age, sex, or weight status. These results support the hypothesis that overweight persons are characterized by an increased eating rate and show that it is apparent even around the time of first self-feeding.", "PMID": 446206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7466", "title": "The interactions of normal and hyperactive children with their mothers in free play and structured tasks.", "content": "Groups of 20 normal and 20 hyperactive boys ranging in age from 6 to 12 years were observed interacting with their mothers in 15-min free-play and 15-min structured-task situations. Using a 15-sec interval coding procedure, 1 observer recorded the mother's response to specific antecedent behaviors of the child while a second observer recorded the child's response to specific behaviors of the mother. Hyperactive boys proved more active, less compliant, and less likely to remain on task than nonhyperactive peers. Mothers of hyperactive boys were less likely to respond positively to the child's social interactions, solitary play activities, or compliant on-task behavior. In addition, mothers of hyperactive boys imposed more structure and control on the child's play, social interactions, and task-oriented activities. It is suggested that the controlling intrusive style observed among the mothers of hyperactive boys, while initially a response to the child's overactive, impulsive, inattentive style, may further contribute to the child's behavioral difficulties.", "contents": "The interactions of normal and hyperactive children with their mothers in free play and structured tasks. Groups of 20 normal and 20 hyperactive boys ranging in age from 6 to 12 years were observed interacting with their mothers in 15-min free-play and 15-min structured-task situations. Using a 15-sec interval coding procedure, 1 observer recorded the mother's response to specific antecedent behaviors of the child while a second observer recorded the child's response to specific behaviors of the mother. Hyperactive boys proved more active, less compliant, and less likely to remain on task than nonhyperactive peers. Mothers of hyperactive boys were less likely to respond positively to the child's social interactions, solitary play activities, or compliant on-task behavior. In addition, mothers of hyperactive boys imposed more structure and control on the child's play, social interactions, and task-oriented activities. It is suggested that the controlling intrusive style observed among the mothers of hyperactive boys, while initially a response to the child's overactive, impulsive, inattentive style, may further contribute to the child's behavioral difficulties.", "PMID": 446207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7467", "title": "Genetic aspects of verbal mediation in memory.", "content": "When do children begin to store visually presented information using a speech code? Conrad has shown that at age 6, but not before, children have more difficulty in recalling items whose names rhyme than items whose names do not and concluded that at 6 years of age children begin to store information in memory using verbal labels. Experiment 1, using a technique similar to the one introduced by Conrad, showed that 4-year-old children memorized nonrhyming items better than rhyming ones. Experiment 2 used a different technique. Instead of comparing the performance obtained with 2 series of different items, one with rhyming and the other with nonrhyming names, we have, by using bilingual children, made comparisons within the same series of items. In one language the items had rhyming names and in the other, nonrhyming names. This technique controlled for the intrinsic difficulty of the items. The results of experiment 2 confirmed those obtained in experiment 1. Our conclusion is that 4-year-old children already use a speech code in order to store and organize information in memory.", "contents": "Genetic aspects of verbal mediation in memory. When do children begin to store visually presented information using a speech code? Conrad has shown that at age 6, but not before, children have more difficulty in recalling items whose names rhyme than items whose names do not and concluded that at 6 years of age children begin to store information in memory using verbal labels. Experiment 1, using a technique similar to the one introduced by Conrad, showed that 4-year-old children memorized nonrhyming items better than rhyming ones. Experiment 2 used a different technique. Instead of comparing the performance obtained with 2 series of different items, one with rhyming and the other with nonrhyming names, we have, by using bilingual children, made comparisons within the same series of items. In one language the items had rhyming names and in the other, nonrhyming names. This technique controlled for the intrinsic difficulty of the items. The results of experiment 2 confirmed those obtained in experiment 1. Our conclusion is that 4-year-old children already use a speech code in order to store and organize information in memory.", "PMID": 446208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7468", "title": "The influence of verbal descriptions versus orientation codes on kindergartners' memory for the orientation of pictures.", "content": "Kindergarten children who viewed a series of 10 line drawings of objects subsequently showed little ability to distinguish between these pictures and their left-right mirror images. However, the children's memory for orientation improved substantially when children were induced to (a) give detailed verbal descriptions of the pictures, or (b) specify a difference between characteristics on the child's side versus the experimenter's side of each picture, or (c) both. The 3 induced strategies were equally effective. On a posttest given approximately a week later, the children did not maintain use of any of these effective strategies.", "contents": "The influence of verbal descriptions versus orientation codes on kindergartners' memory for the orientation of pictures. Kindergarten children who viewed a series of 10 line drawings of objects subsequently showed little ability to distinguish between these pictures and their left-right mirror images. However, the children's memory for orientation improved substantially when children were induced to (a) give detailed verbal descriptions of the pictures, or (b) specify a difference between characteristics on the child's side versus the experimenter's side of each picture, or (c) both. The 3 induced strategies were equally effective. On a posttest given approximately a week later, the children did not maintain use of any of these effective strategies.", "PMID": 446209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7469", "title": "Sentence comprehension in preschool children: testing an adaptive egocentrism hypothesis.", "content": "A hypothesis proposing that preoperational egocentrism serves an adaptive function was used to predict the comprehension behavior of preschool children presented with sentences varying on a \"personal\" dimension. Personal sentences containing the subject's name were contrasted at 2 levels of syntactic complexity with impersonal sentences containing other familiar nouns. Significant effects were found for age, semantics, and syntax (all p's less than .001), with no sex effects or interactions. Personal sentences were better comprehended than impersonals at both levels of syntactic complexity. A second experiment was conducted to rule out \"focusing of attention\" as an alternative explanation. Variations in the likelihood of occurrence of the depicted event were added to the personal-impersonal contrast. High-probability personal sentences were significantly better understood than low-probability sentences, whether personal or impersonal (p less than .001). Results supported the adaptive egocentrism hypothesis in that sentence content describing the child and his personal experience facilitates the child's comprehension.", "contents": "Sentence comprehension in preschool children: testing an adaptive egocentrism hypothesis. A hypothesis proposing that preoperational egocentrism serves an adaptive function was used to predict the comprehension behavior of preschool children presented with sentences varying on a \"personal\" dimension. Personal sentences containing the subject's name were contrasted at 2 levels of syntactic complexity with impersonal sentences containing other familiar nouns. Significant effects were found for age, semantics, and syntax (all p's less than .001), with no sex effects or interactions. Personal sentences were better comprehended than impersonals at both levels of syntactic complexity. A second experiment was conducted to rule out \"focusing of attention\" as an alternative explanation. Variations in the likelihood of occurrence of the depicted event were added to the personal-impersonal contrast. High-probability personal sentences were significantly better understood than low-probability sentences, whether personal or impersonal (p less than .001). Results supported the adaptive egocentrism hypothesis in that sentence content describing the child and his personal experience facilitates the child's comprehension.", "PMID": 446210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7470", "title": "Problem-solving skills, locus of control, and the contraceptive effectiveness of young women.", "content": "It was proposed that the lack of insight into the risk-taking behavior of many sexually active women who do not want to get pregnant may reflect the lack of an adequate framework from which to investigate the problem. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between contraceptive effectiveness and several cognitive factors. The sample consisted of 155 single women, 15.3-25.7 years of age, from a Planned Parenthood clinic and an abortion clinic. Contraceptive effectiveness, operationally defined as the number of unplanned pregnancies in a woman's history, was significantly and negatively related to means-ends problem-solving ability and a belief in internal control and significantly and positively related to a belief in chance control. It was suggested that these results support the utility of a cognitive, problem-solving approach to the study of contraceptive behavior.", "contents": "Problem-solving skills, locus of control, and the contraceptive effectiveness of young women. It was proposed that the lack of insight into the risk-taking behavior of many sexually active women who do not want to get pregnant may reflect the lack of an adequate framework from which to investigate the problem. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between contraceptive effectiveness and several cognitive factors. The sample consisted of 155 single women, 15.3-25.7 years of age, from a Planned Parenthood clinic and an abortion clinic. Contraceptive effectiveness, operationally defined as the number of unplanned pregnancies in a woman's history, was significantly and negatively related to means-ends problem-solving ability and a belief in internal control and significantly and positively related to a belief in chance control. It was suggested that these results support the utility of a cognitive, problem-solving approach to the study of contraceptive behavior.", "PMID": 446211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7471", "title": "Peripheral discrimination by three-month-old infants.", "content": "3-month-old infants made 2 types of discrimination with their peripheral vision. They discriminated between grossly different figures placed as far out as 30 degrees toward the periphery, and they discriminated between more subtly different figures, which differed only in the shape of their internal elements, out to 10 degrees. The results imply that infants can readily process stimuli with peripheral vision.", "contents": "Peripheral discrimination by three-month-old infants. 3-month-old infants made 2 types of discrimination with their peripheral vision. They discriminated between grossly different figures placed as far out as 30 degrees toward the periphery, and they discriminated between more subtly different figures, which differed only in the shape of their internal elements, out to 10 degrees. The results imply that infants can readily process stimuli with peripheral vision.", "PMID": 446212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7472", "title": "A comparison of fathers' and mothers' speech with their young chidren.", "content": "The verbal interaction of 12 mothers and 12 fathers with their 19-month-old girls and boys in 2 situations was assessed. In 1 situation, all 3 family members were together, while in the other, each parent was alone with the child. Analyses indicated that when all 3 family members were together, fathers spoke less and took fewer conversational turns than mothers. Other than these significant differences, fathers' speech to their children was not different from mothers' speech on a range of quantitative and qualitative measures.", "contents": "A comparison of fathers' and mothers' speech with their young chidren. The verbal interaction of 12 mothers and 12 fathers with their 19-month-old girls and boys in 2 situations was assessed. In 1 situation, all 3 family members were together, while in the other, each parent was alone with the child. Analyses indicated that when all 3 family members were together, fathers spoke less and took fewer conversational turns than mothers. Other than these significant differences, fathers' speech to their children was not different from mothers' speech on a range of quantitative and qualitative measures.", "PMID": 446213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7473", "title": "Maternal holding preferences: a consequence of newborn head-turning response.", "content": "Salk observed that in an overwhelming majority of cases (80%) mothers prefer to hold their infants across the left shoulder. This preference occurs over a diversity of cultures and is not related to the hand preference of the mother. Salk suggested a fetal imprinting to the sound of the heartbeat as the mechanism responsible for this phenomenon. While such speculation is intriguing, it is not scientifically testable. 2 experiments were performed to examine a more testable hypothesis. Results of these studies suggest that the initial head-turning preference of an infant is related to the holding preference of its mother.", "contents": "Maternal holding preferences: a consequence of newborn head-turning response. Salk observed that in an overwhelming majority of cases (80%) mothers prefer to hold their infants across the left shoulder. This preference occurs over a diversity of cultures and is not related to the hand preference of the mother. Salk suggested a fetal imprinting to the sound of the heartbeat as the mechanism responsible for this phenomenon. While such speculation is intriguing, it is not scientifically testable. 2 experiments were performed to examine a more testable hypothesis. Results of these studies suggest that the initial head-turning preference of an infant is related to the holding preference of its mother.", "PMID": 446214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7474", "title": "The origins of intentional vocalizations in prelinguistic infants.", "content": "The development of the intention to communicate was examined by attempting to identify the point at which prelinguistic vocalizations are used by infants as a means of communication. This achievement was related to the infants' cognitive development. It was hypothesized that Piagetian stage 5 in the development of causality may be a prerequisite for the intentional use of vocalizations. 46 infants (X age = 10.7 months, range: 8 months--14.3 months) and their mothers were videotaped in a structured, naturalistic setting. 2 \"frustration\" episodes were devised to encourage communication, and the infants' vocalizations as well as other behaviors were coded by 2 observers. 2 Piagetian tasks were selected to assess the causal developmental level of the child. A significant relationship between causal developmental level and the occurrence of intentional vocalizations was found. The results support the hypothesis that stage 5 causal development may be a prerequisite to the use of intentional vocalizations.", "contents": "The origins of intentional vocalizations in prelinguistic infants. The development of the intention to communicate was examined by attempting to identify the point at which prelinguistic vocalizations are used by infants as a means of communication. This achievement was related to the infants' cognitive development. It was hypothesized that Piagetian stage 5 in the development of causality may be a prerequisite for the intentional use of vocalizations. 46 infants (X age = 10.7 months, range: 8 months--14.3 months) and their mothers were videotaped in a structured, naturalistic setting. 2 \"frustration\" episodes were devised to encourage communication, and the infants' vocalizations as well as other behaviors were coded by 2 observers. 2 Piagetian tasks were selected to assess the causal developmental level of the child. A significant relationship between causal developmental level and the occurrence of intentional vocalizations was found. The results support the hypothesis that stage 5 causal development may be a prerequisite to the use of intentional vocalizations.", "PMID": 446215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7475", "title": "Infant visual and vocal responses to television.", "content": "To provide a first assessment of television influences on infants in the naturalistic setting of the home, visual and vocal behaviors of 72 infants 6 months of age were recorded during 4 days of exposure to various components of broadcast television programs: sound only, picture only, sound plus picture, or a control stimulus of unpatterned sound plus picture. Infants looked longer at the television set during the sound-plus-picture condition than during the picture-only condition, and they looked longer during both of these patterned picture conditions than during both of the other conditions that lacked a patterned picture. Also, infants vocalized more during the picture-only condition than during the sound-only condition. These findings demonstrate that infants attend to the naturalistic presentation of television stimulation and that they respond differentially to the visual and auditory components of television. The results are discussed in terms of the question of the long-term influence on infants' social responsiveness of substantial levels of exposure to the noncontingent, quasi-social stimulation provided by television.", "contents": "Infant visual and vocal responses to television. To provide a first assessment of television influences on infants in the naturalistic setting of the home, visual and vocal behaviors of 72 infants 6 months of age were recorded during 4 days of exposure to various components of broadcast television programs: sound only, picture only, sound plus picture, or a control stimulus of unpatterned sound plus picture. Infants looked longer at the television set during the sound-plus-picture condition than during the picture-only condition, and they looked longer during both of these patterned picture conditions than during both of the other conditions that lacked a patterned picture. Also, infants vocalized more during the picture-only condition than during the sound-only condition. These findings demonstrate that infants attend to the naturalistic presentation of television stimulation and that they respond differentially to the visual and auditory components of television. The results are discussed in terms of the question of the long-term influence on infants' social responsiveness of substantial levels of exposure to the noncontingent, quasi-social stimulation provided by television.", "PMID": 446216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7476", "title": "Children's sensitivity to intraword redundancy in spoken words.", "content": "Kindergarten, third-grade and fifth-grade children were tested on a same-different auditory discrimination task. Stimuli consisted of familiar and unfamiliar 3-letter words which were subdivided into high and low positional frequency word pairs. Analysis of correct same and different judgments supported the hypothesis that prereaders who have had normal language experiences develop sensitivities to intraword-redundancy relations. Children made significantly more correct same or different judgments when word pairs were high rather than low in summed positional frequency.", "contents": "Children's sensitivity to intraword redundancy in spoken words. Kindergarten, third-grade and fifth-grade children were tested on a same-different auditory discrimination task. Stimuli consisted of familiar and unfamiliar 3-letter words which were subdivided into high and low positional frequency word pairs. Analysis of correct same and different judgments supported the hypothesis that prereaders who have had normal language experiences develop sensitivities to intraword-redundancy relations. Children made significantly more correct same or different judgments when word pairs were high rather than low in summed positional frequency.", "PMID": 446217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7477", "title": "[Indication margins for pulmonary embolectomy].", "content": "Pulmonary embolectomy is the most effective form of treatment in acute, massive pulmonary embolism. Persistent cardio-respiratory failure, in spite of intensive medical therapy, presents a clear indication for embolectomy. A relative indication is given with the occlusion of more than 50% of the pulmonary arterial tree, especially in the case of beginning circulatory failure and contraindications to fibrinolytic therapy. Preoperative angiography is essential and should be performed whenever possible. A dramatic deterioration of the patient's condition may, however, require a prior reestablishment of sufficient circulation with relief of the right ventricle. According to the clarity of symptoms, either immediate thoracotomy or peripheral canulation and partial cardio-pulmonary bypass with subsequent angiography on the operating table should be preferred. Even a long resuscitation with persistently dilated, non-reactive pupils does not exclude operative success, and justifies neither the ommission nor the premature discontinuance of a resolute and consistent therapy.", "contents": "[Indication margins for pulmonary embolectomy]. Pulmonary embolectomy is the most effective form of treatment in acute, massive pulmonary embolism. Persistent cardio-respiratory failure, in spite of intensive medical therapy, presents a clear indication for embolectomy. A relative indication is given with the occlusion of more than 50% of the pulmonary arterial tree, especially in the case of beginning circulatory failure and contraindications to fibrinolytic therapy. Preoperative angiography is essential and should be performed whenever possible. A dramatic deterioration of the patient's condition may, however, require a prior reestablishment of sufficient circulation with relief of the right ventricle. According to the clarity of symptoms, either immediate thoracotomy or peripheral canulation and partial cardio-pulmonary bypass with subsequent angiography on the operating table should be preferred. Even a long resuscitation with persistently dilated, non-reactive pupils does not exclude operative success, and justifies neither the ommission nor the premature discontinuance of a resolute and consistent therapy.", "PMID": 446220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7478", "title": "[Percutaneous transluminal revascularization of lower-leg arteries].", "content": "In 19 of more than 130 patients treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), obstructions of the distal popliteal artery and the lower leg arteries encouraged us to extend the treatment to this vascular region. Two weeks after PTA the arteries were patent in 16 of the 19 cases (84%). These results are comparable with those of vascular surgery, but are gained with less injury to the patient and a shorter hospitalization time.", "contents": "[Percutaneous transluminal revascularization of lower-leg arteries]. In 19 of more than 130 patients treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), obstructions of the distal popliteal artery and the lower leg arteries encouraged us to extend the treatment to this vascular region. Two weeks after PTA the arteries were patent in 16 of the 19 cases (84%). These results are comparable with those of vascular surgery, but are gained with less injury to the patient and a shorter hospitalization time.", "PMID": 446221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7479", "title": "[Peripheral arterial injuries due to fractures and dislocations].", "content": "Using 12 typical cases, which are tabulated, the diagnosis and therapy of combined bone and vascular injuries are demonstrated. Particular emphasis is put on a detailed presurgery diagnosis, if possible angiographic diagnosis. Early surgery, subject to a generous indication, with resection of the injured vascular segments and subsegment interposition of an autologous vein transplant is preferred. The correctness of this procedure is confirmed by the corresponding good postsurgery results.", "contents": "[Peripheral arterial injuries due to fractures and dislocations]. Using 12 typical cases, which are tabulated, the diagnosis and therapy of combined bone and vascular injuries are demonstrated. Particular emphasis is put on a detailed presurgery diagnosis, if possible angiographic diagnosis. Early surgery, subject to a generous indication, with resection of the injured vascular segments and subsegment interposition of an autologous vein transplant is preferred. The correctness of this procedure is confirmed by the corresponding good postsurgery results.", "PMID": 446222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7480", "title": "[Crohn's proctocolitis with involvement of the esophagus and mouth. Case report].", "content": "A case of esophageal Crohn's disease occurring in a 40-year-old woman with proctocolitis and oral manifestation is reported. A possible connection between Crohn's disease and Beh\u00e7et's syndrome is discussed. A survey of the literature indicates that comparable lesions occur very rarely.", "contents": "[Crohn's proctocolitis with involvement of the esophagus and mouth. Case report]. A case of esophageal Crohn's disease occurring in a 40-year-old woman with proctocolitis and oral manifestation is reported. A possible connection between Crohn's disease and Beh\u00e7et's syndrome is discussed. A survey of the literature indicates that comparable lesions occur very rarely.", "PMID": 446223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7481", "title": "[Must cold nodules continue to remain absolute indications for surgery?].", "content": "The vast increase in thyroid operations in recent years, resulting partly from the continued development of nuclear diagnostic techniques, has led to the acquisition of new knowledge. Retrospective research on 6252 thyroid operations performed during the last 15 years shows an increase in the number of scintigraphically cold thyroid nodes, both absolutely and in relation to the total number of thyroid operations. With increased use of surgery, the malignancy rate in cases with cold thyroid nodes has fallen to 3.2%; the malignancy rate in cases where scintigraphy gave other results is 1.2%. Favorable developments have occurred in the earlier detection of cancer and in histologic diagnosis. In the 1960s, one-half of malignant goiter cases were first detected in stages III and IV of the TNM scala and could therefore be given only a palliative operation. Today, 80% of cases are detected and treated curatively in stage I. Whereas from 1964 to 1969 almost 50% of malignant goiters were histologically undifferentiated, today 90% are well-differentiated carcinomas. In view of these statistics, use of the scintigraphic diagnosis of cold thyroid nodes as an invariable indication for surgery should be reconsidered.", "contents": "[Must cold nodules continue to remain absolute indications for surgery?]. The vast increase in thyroid operations in recent years, resulting partly from the continued development of nuclear diagnostic techniques, has led to the acquisition of new knowledge. Retrospective research on 6252 thyroid operations performed during the last 15 years shows an increase in the number of scintigraphically cold thyroid nodes, both absolutely and in relation to the total number of thyroid operations. With increased use of surgery, the malignancy rate in cases with cold thyroid nodes has fallen to 3.2%; the malignancy rate in cases where scintigraphy gave other results is 1.2%. Favorable developments have occurred in the earlier detection of cancer and in histologic diagnosis. In the 1960s, one-half of malignant goiter cases were first detected in stages III and IV of the TNM scala and could therefore be given only a palliative operation. Today, 80% of cases are detected and treated curatively in stage I. Whereas from 1964 to 1969 almost 50% of malignant goiters were histologically undifferentiated, today 90% are well-differentiated carcinomas. In view of these statistics, use of the scintigraphic diagnosis of cold thyroid nodes as an invariable indication for surgery should be reconsidered.", "PMID": 446233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7482", "title": "[Active search for Meckel's diverticulum].", "content": "Examination for Meckel's diverticulum is generally performed in each case of laparotomy where the incision allows observation of the small bowel without danger of spreading the infection. In 65 cases, pathologic alterations were found in 14 (= 21,5%). Postoperative bowel obstruction due to resection of Meckel's diverticulum has been found twice (3%), one patient died. It is suggested that Meckel's diverticulum be removed whenever possible.", "contents": "[Active search for Meckel's diverticulum]. Examination for Meckel's diverticulum is generally performed in each case of laparotomy where the incision allows observation of the small bowel without danger of spreading the infection. In 65 cases, pathologic alterations were found in 14 (= 21,5%). Postoperative bowel obstruction due to resection of Meckel's diverticulum has been found twice (3%), one patient died. It is suggested that Meckel's diverticulum be removed whenever possible.", "PMID": 446234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7483", "title": "[Does a one-time colonic or rectal resection without protective colostomy increase the rate of postoperative complications?].", "content": "The rate of postoperative complications is the decisive criterion in evaluating the preoperative preparation of the large intestine, the operative methods, and the technique of anastomosis. Preparations for colorectal surgery include administration of antibiotics and the use of a three-row suture method of anastomosis without the protection of an intestinal fistula. The results of 1054 colorectal resections are promising: The rate of anastomotic insufficiency was 3.9% after resection of tumors and 4.9% after resection of inflamed diverticula. Lethality from local causes was 1.2% and 1.9%, respectively. Disturbance of wound healing occurred in 10.7% of the cases.", "contents": "[Does a one-time colonic or rectal resection without protective colostomy increase the rate of postoperative complications?]. The rate of postoperative complications is the decisive criterion in evaluating the preoperative preparation of the large intestine, the operative methods, and the technique of anastomosis. Preparations for colorectal surgery include administration of antibiotics and the use of a three-row suture method of anastomosis without the protection of an intestinal fistula. The results of 1054 colorectal resections are promising: The rate of anastomotic insufficiency was 3.9% after resection of tumors and 4.9% after resection of inflamed diverticula. Lethality from local causes was 1.2% and 1.9%, respectively. Disturbance of wound healing occurred in 10.7% of the cases.", "PMID": 446235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7484", "title": "[Expanded PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) vascular prostheses--a new path of arterial and venous replacement].", "content": "Based on existing experimental and clinical observations the expanded PTFE graft shows convincing advantages in some indication fields (e.g., vascular access for hemodialysis, venous reconstruction) compared with conventional porous prostheses and biografts. On the other hand, we have to realize that expanded PTFE is not yet qualified to be the optimal substitute for small arteries. In spite of encouraging preliminary results, the use of this new type of vascular prosthesis still requires critical evaluation to avoid unpredictable failure due to uncritical surgical optimism (caution: Sparks disaster!). Further improvements may be expected from a better anchorage in the surrounding tissue (e.g., external velour), and from an increase of antithrombogenity of the inner surface.", "contents": "[Expanded PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) vascular prostheses--a new path of arterial and venous replacement]. Based on existing experimental and clinical observations the expanded PTFE graft shows convincing advantages in some indication fields (e.g., vascular access for hemodialysis, venous reconstruction) compared with conventional porous prostheses and biografts. On the other hand, we have to realize that expanded PTFE is not yet qualified to be the optimal substitute for small arteries. In spite of encouraging preliminary results, the use of this new type of vascular prosthesis still requires critical evaluation to avoid unpredictable failure due to uncritical surgical optimism (caution: Sparks disaster!). Further improvements may be expected from a better anchorage in the surrounding tissue (e.g., external velour), and from an increase of antithrombogenity of the inner surface.", "PMID": 446236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7485", "title": "[Possibilities of using ultrasonic tools in changing endoprostheses].", "content": "In joint replacement surgery an exchange of endoprostheses is technically most difficult, time consuming, and extremely unpleasant for the patient. Removal of the implant without damaging the bone entails many problems. Experience has shown that, in addition to the normal operative technique, the ultrasonic method may be very helpful. Ultrasonic implements that melt thermoplastic implants facilitate the removal of those implants (e.g., polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene), protect the tissue, and save time. This method is not an alternative to the normal operative technique, but an additional help.", "contents": "[Possibilities of using ultrasonic tools in changing endoprostheses]. In joint replacement surgery an exchange of endoprostheses is technically most difficult, time consuming, and extremely unpleasant for the patient. Removal of the implant without damaging the bone entails many problems. Experience has shown that, in addition to the normal operative technique, the ultrasonic method may be very helpful. Ultrasonic implements that melt thermoplastic implants facilitate the removal of those implants (e.g., polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene), protect the tissue, and save time. This method is not an alternative to the normal operative technique, but an additional help.", "PMID": 446237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7486", "title": "A quantitative electron microscopic analysis of transcription in sea urchin embryos.", "content": "In an effort to define stage-specific embryonic patterns of sea urchin transcription, we have examined by electron microscopy the distribution of nascent RNP fibrils in dispersed chromatin from nuclei of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus gastrulae. Detailed analysis of individual embryonic nuclei has revealed several new features of nuclear RNA production. Most (82%) of the active chromatin regions observed were represented by only a single fibril. 11% of the active regions contained multiple RNP fibril arrays with an average RNA polymerase density of 1.7 +/- 1.0 polymerases/micron of chromatin and an average contour length of 4.7 +/- 2.8 microns chromatin. An analysis of the lengths of RNP fibrils in single vs. multiple fibril arrays indicates that the differential distribution of RNA polymerases is due to different rates of initiation rather than to different lengths of transcription units (assuming the rate of RNA chain elongation to be constant). We discuss these data in relation to various transcriptional parameters measured by other workers and to EM analyses of other embryonic nuclei. Elucidation of transcriptional patterns in gastrula embryos can provide the basis for further comparative studies of transcription at other stages of sea urchin development in which rates of total genomic transcription vary but the rate at individual loci is as yet unknown.", "contents": "A quantitative electron microscopic analysis of transcription in sea urchin embryos. In an effort to define stage-specific embryonic patterns of sea urchin transcription, we have examined by electron microscopy the distribution of nascent RNP fibrils in dispersed chromatin from nuclei of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus gastrulae. Detailed analysis of individual embryonic nuclei has revealed several new features of nuclear RNA production. Most (82%) of the active chromatin regions observed were represented by only a single fibril. 11% of the active regions contained multiple RNP fibril arrays with an average RNA polymerase density of 1.7 +/- 1.0 polymerases/micron of chromatin and an average contour length of 4.7 +/- 2.8 microns chromatin. An analysis of the lengths of RNP fibrils in single vs. multiple fibril arrays indicates that the differential distribution of RNA polymerases is due to different rates of initiation rather than to different lengths of transcription units (assuming the rate of RNA chain elongation to be constant). We discuss these data in relation to various transcriptional parameters measured by other workers and to EM analyses of other embryonic nuclei. Elucidation of transcriptional patterns in gastrula embryos can provide the basis for further comparative studies of transcription at other stages of sea urchin development in which rates of total genomic transcription vary but the rate at individual loci is as yet unknown.", "PMID": 446242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7487", "title": "Effect of temperature on morphology and DNA-content of polytene chromosomes in Drosophila.", "content": "Feulgen-DNA contents and chromosome lengths and projected areas were measured in salivary gland nuclei from Drosophila prepupae which had developed at 25 degrees or 15 degrees C. Nuclei from a given prepupa fell into 3 to 5 DNA classes corresponding to different levels of polyteny. The 15 degree nuclei tended to fall into higher classes than those from 25 degree-reared animals, and their chromosomes were, on average, about 50% wider. Chromosomes within a given DNA class did not differ significantly in mean area, length or width between the temperature groups, and slight apparent differences in mean DNA content were attributable to systematic microdensitometric errors associated with differences in the spreading behaviour of the nuclei. On cytological examination, chromosomes from the two temperature groups differed mainly in width and stain intensity, but some other differences in appearance could not be accounted for by levels of polyteny. The mean length of the chromosome complement was about 400 microns. From one polytenic level to the next the chromosomes increased by about 10% in length, 40% in width and 17% in mean absorbance. The DNA content approximately doubled; small apparent deviations from the 1:2 ratio could have been due to microdensitometric error or to underreplication of heterochromatin.", "contents": "Effect of temperature on morphology and DNA-content of polytene chromosomes in Drosophila. Feulgen-DNA contents and chromosome lengths and projected areas were measured in salivary gland nuclei from Drosophila prepupae which had developed at 25 degrees or 15 degrees C. Nuclei from a given prepupa fell into 3 to 5 DNA classes corresponding to different levels of polyteny. The 15 degree nuclei tended to fall into higher classes than those from 25 degree-reared animals, and their chromosomes were, on average, about 50% wider. Chromosomes within a given DNA class did not differ significantly in mean area, length or width between the temperature groups, and slight apparent differences in mean DNA content were attributable to systematic microdensitometric errors associated with differences in the spreading behaviour of the nuclei. On cytological examination, chromosomes from the two temperature groups differed mainly in width and stain intensity, but some other differences in appearance could not be accounted for by levels of polyteny. The mean length of the chromosome complement was about 400 microns. From one polytenic level to the next the chromosomes increased by about 10% in length, 40% in width and 17% in mean absorbance. The DNA content approximately doubled; small apparent deviations from the 1:2 ratio could have been due to microdensitometric error or to underreplication of heterochromatin.", "PMID": 446243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7488", "title": "Adenomatous and carcinomatous changes within hyperplastic colonic epithelium.", "content": "Hyperplastic colonic polyps are benign, nonneoplastic proliferations; unlike tubular and villous adenomas, they do not predispose the patient to colonic cancer. Theoretically, these hyperplastic polyps, like normal colonic epithelium, should be able to undergo adenomatous transformation and possibly develop into cancer. In this report, we discuss an unusual case of a patient with numerous hyperplastic polyps, in which adenomatous changes occurred and cancer developed. We also discuss the significance of these changes as they relate to the polyp-cancer sequence.", "contents": "Adenomatous and carcinomatous changes within hyperplastic colonic epithelium. Hyperplastic colonic polyps are benign, nonneoplastic proliferations; unlike tubular and villous adenomas, they do not predispose the patient to colonic cancer. Theoretically, these hyperplastic polyps, like normal colonic epithelium, should be able to undergo adenomatous transformation and possibly develop into cancer. In this report, we discuss an unusual case of a patient with numerous hyperplastic polyps, in which adenomatous changes occurred and cancer developed. We also discuss the significance of these changes as they relate to the polyp-cancer sequence.", "PMID": 446245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7489", "title": "Colonic adrenocarcinomas in patients with ureterosigmoidostomies.", "content": "Two additional cases of adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon occurring at the site of ureterosigmoidostomy are reported. The high risk of this complication occurring in patients who have undergone ureterosigmoidostomy is described. The possible shortness of the interval from diversion to development of an adenocarcinoma, especially in those cases involving carcinoma of the bladder, is emphasized. It is strongly recommended that careful follow up of such patients should begin within several years of establishment of the ureterosigmoidostomy.", "contents": "Colonic adrenocarcinomas in patients with ureterosigmoidostomies. Two additional cases of adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon occurring at the site of ureterosigmoidostomy are reported. The high risk of this complication occurring in patients who have undergone ureterosigmoidostomy is described. The possible shortness of the interval from diversion to development of an adenocarcinoma, especially in those cases involving carcinoma of the bladder, is emphasized. It is strongly recommended that careful follow up of such patients should begin within several years of establishment of the ureterosigmoidostomy.", "PMID": 446246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7490", "title": "Urgent hemorrhoidectomy for hemorrhoidal thrombosis.", "content": "Sixty-five patients underwent hemorrhoidectomies for acute thrombosis. All biopsy specimens contained intravascular thrombi. Early postoperative complications included urinary difficulties and bleeding. Late postoperative complications included anal stenosis.", "contents": "Urgent hemorrhoidectomy for hemorrhoidal thrombosis. Sixty-five patients underwent hemorrhoidectomies for acute thrombosis. All biopsy specimens contained intravascular thrombi. Early postoperative complications included urinary difficulties and bleeding. Late postoperative complications included anal stenosis.", "PMID": 446247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7491", "title": "Sigmoidoscopic examinations with rigid and flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes in the surgeon's office: a comparative prospective study of effectiveness in 1,012 cases.", "content": "The results obtained from 1,012 examinations in an on-going, cooperative study indicate that the overall yield provided by use of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope is 3.2 times greater than that of examinations with the rigid sigmoidoscope. More than twice (2.4 times) the number of polyps and more than three times the number of cancers were detected with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. Experienced endoscopists can perform an examination with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope expeditiously in the office with minimal patient preparation, a high level of patient and physician acceptance, and relative safety when the usual mandatory colonoscopic precautions and guidelines are obeyed. The extraordinary advantages demonstrated by this study warrant wide clinical application of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. We strongly recommend provision be made for appropriate training of physicians in the use of the instrument.", "contents": "Sigmoidoscopic examinations with rigid and flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes in the surgeon's office: a comparative prospective study of effectiveness in 1,012 cases. The results obtained from 1,012 examinations in an on-going, cooperative study indicate that the overall yield provided by use of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope is 3.2 times greater than that of examinations with the rigid sigmoidoscope. More than twice (2.4 times) the number of polyps and more than three times the number of cancers were detected with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. Experienced endoscopists can perform an examination with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope expeditiously in the office with minimal patient preparation, a high level of patient and physician acceptance, and relative safety when the usual mandatory colonoscopic precautions and guidelines are obeyed. The extraordinary advantages demonstrated by this study warrant wide clinical application of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. We strongly recommend provision be made for appropriate training of physicians in the use of the instrument.", "PMID": 446248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7492", "title": "Biofeedback in the management of partial anal incontinence: a preliminary report.", "content": "This method of improving anal continence is recommended for patients with partial anal incontinence, in whom some functioning anal sphincter remains. It is particularly applicable for treating those patients who have sustained operative trauma, but is less helpful for those who have generalized sphincter weakness; however, any patient with some sphincter function may benefit. Emotionally unstable patients are less likely to benefit. Although the series was small, the results were considered sufficiently gratifying to justify a preliminary report.", "contents": "Biofeedback in the management of partial anal incontinence: a preliminary report. This method of improving anal continence is recommended for patients with partial anal incontinence, in whom some functioning anal sphincter remains. It is particularly applicable for treating those patients who have sustained operative trauma, but is less helpful for those who have generalized sphincter weakness; however, any patient with some sphincter function may benefit. Emotionally unstable patients are less likely to benefit. Although the series was small, the results were considered sufficiently gratifying to justify a preliminary report.", "PMID": 446249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7493", "title": "Spontaneous disruption of the colon associated with pyonephrosis: report of a case.", "content": "We report a case of reno-colic fistula with abscess formation, which was treated by staged surgical procedures. One must be wary of automatically implicating the colon as the primary source of the problem when the colon and adjacent organs are involved in an inflammatory process. In cases involving the superior segments of the colon, the kidney or pancreas may be the source of the fistula.", "contents": "Spontaneous disruption of the colon associated with pyonephrosis: report of a case. We report a case of reno-colic fistula with abscess formation, which was treated by staged surgical procedures. One must be wary of automatically implicating the colon as the primary source of the problem when the colon and adjacent organs are involved in an inflammatory process. In cases involving the superior segments of the colon, the kidney or pancreas may be the source of the fistula.", "PMID": 446250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7494", "title": "Leiomyosarcoma of the appendix: report of two cases.", "content": "Two cases of leiomyosarcoma of the appendix are reported. Leiomyosarcoma of the large intestine is rare, and leiomyosarcoma of the appendix has not been previously reported.", "contents": "Leiomyosarcoma of the appendix: report of two cases. Two cases of leiomyosarcoma of the appendix are reported. Leiomyosarcoma of the large intestine is rare, and leiomyosarcoma of the appendix has not been previously reported.", "PMID": 446251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7495", "title": "Peritoneal nocardiosis: report of a case.", "content": "A case of primary peritoneal nocardiosis is presented. The patient died, despite prompt, aggressive and appropriate antibiotic therapy. Decreased patient resistance is suggested as the cause of the overwhelming nature of the infection in this case. The importance of administering prophylactic antibiotics on a long-term basis to prevent recurrence after successful treatment is stressed. Although nocardial infections are rare, they may become more common because of the current widespread use of immunosuppressive therapy.", "contents": "Peritoneal nocardiosis: report of a case. A case of primary peritoneal nocardiosis is presented. The patient died, despite prompt, aggressive and appropriate antibiotic therapy. Decreased patient resistance is suggested as the cause of the overwhelming nature of the infection in this case. The importance of administering prophylactic antibiotics on a long-term basis to prevent recurrence after successful treatment is stressed. Although nocardial infections are rare, they may become more common because of the current widespread use of immunosuppressive therapy.", "PMID": 446252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7496", "title": "Arterio-enteric fistulas.", "content": "The colorectal surgeon may well see arterioenteric fistulas in patients who have rectal bleeding. The initial bleeding usually stops, allowing time for evaluation, which should be done promptly because subsequent bleeding may be fatal. Exploratory laparotomy is frequently necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Surgical management necessitates individual assessment of each case, but best results seem to be obtained when the infected graft is completely removed.", "contents": "Arterio-enteric fistulas. The colorectal surgeon may well see arterioenteric fistulas in patients who have rectal bleeding. The initial bleeding usually stops, allowing time for evaluation, which should be done promptly because subsequent bleeding may be fatal. Exploratory laparotomy is frequently necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Surgical management necessitates individual assessment of each case, but best results seem to be obtained when the infected graft is completely removed.", "PMID": 446254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7497", "title": "Arteriovenous malformation of the upper rectum in an unusual site: report of a case and review of the literature.", "content": "A single case of vascular ecstasia involving the upper rectum and manifesting as an ulcerative lesion is reported. This is the first report of such a case. The authors emphasize the importance of exploratory laparotomy and careful histologic studies in diagnosting such cases.", "contents": "Arteriovenous malformation of the upper rectum in an unusual site: report of a case and review of the literature. A single case of vascular ecstasia involving the upper rectum and manifesting as an ulcerative lesion is reported. This is the first report of such a case. The authors emphasize the importance of exploratory laparotomy and careful histologic studies in diagnosting such cases.", "PMID": 446255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7498", "title": "[Primary hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)].", "content": "Experience gained from 100 patients with surgically and histologically proven primary hyperparathyroidism over a period of 14 years led to simplification of diagnostic procedures and development of a surgical scheme. Over the years patients with discrete disease symptoms or with asymptomatic disease were observed more frequently. This can be seen as the result of earlier diagnosis due to increasing spread of laboratory autoanalysers and the resulting routine calcium determination. Development of surgical intervention is characterised by omitting preoperative diagnostic procedures to determine localisation, a schematised operation, and more reliance on macroscopic criteria rather than on quick sections during surgery.", "contents": "[Primary hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)]. Experience gained from 100 patients with surgically and histologically proven primary hyperparathyroidism over a period of 14 years led to simplification of diagnostic procedures and development of a surgical scheme. Over the years patients with discrete disease symptoms or with asymptomatic disease were observed more frequently. This can be seen as the result of earlier diagnosis due to increasing spread of laboratory autoanalysers and the resulting routine calcium determination. Development of surgical intervention is characterised by omitting preoperative diagnostic procedures to determine localisation, a schematised operation, and more reliance on macroscopic criteria rather than on quick sections during surgery.", "PMID": 446277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7499", "title": "[Prognostic aspects of early gastric carcinoma (author's transl)].", "content": "The results of treatment of early gastric carcinoma were analysed in 65 patients. In 33 patients the operation was performed 5 years ago. The 5-year-survival rate was 70%. Prognosis was predominantly influenced by the histology of the tumour. Signet ring cell and anaplastic early carcinomas (diffuse type) had a worse prognosis than intestinal (differentiated) forms. Carcinomas localised wholly in the mucosa had no better prognosis than those penetrating into the submucosa. There is no choice of surgical method according to prognostic criteria as the diagnosis \"early gastric carcinoma\" can be made only postoperatively from the resection material. Bioptic proof of carcinomatous gastric mucosal changes requires full observation of the rules of cancer surgery.", "contents": "[Prognostic aspects of early gastric carcinoma (author's transl)]. The results of treatment of early gastric carcinoma were analysed in 65 patients. In 33 patients the operation was performed 5 years ago. The 5-year-survival rate was 70%. Prognosis was predominantly influenced by the histology of the tumour. Signet ring cell and anaplastic early carcinomas (diffuse type) had a worse prognosis than intestinal (differentiated) forms. Carcinomas localised wholly in the mucosa had no better prognosis than those penetrating into the submucosa. There is no choice of surgical method according to prognostic criteria as the diagnosis \"early gastric carcinoma\" can be made only postoperatively from the resection material. Bioptic proof of carcinomatous gastric mucosal changes requires full observation of the rules of cancer surgery.", "PMID": 446278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7500", "title": "[Surgical treatment of left ventricular aneurysm (author's transl)].", "content": "174 cardiac aneurysms were resected between 1970 and 1977. In 49 patients the remaining contractile segment was revascularised at the same time. The hospital mortality was 10.3%, the late mortality was 14%. The uncorrected cumulative survival rate calculated by the acturial method was 90% at 3 years (84--96), and 80% at 5 years (74--85). Results were excellent or good in two thirds of the survivors; 44% were free of angina pectoris, 40% were improved, 73% had no disturbances of cardiac rhythm, and in 15% they were improved. Comparison of the pre- and postoperative ejection fraction showed that the indication for surgery of a cardiac aneurysm exists when more than 20% of the musculature of the left ventricle is affected, when the total ejection fraction is larger than 10% when one vessel is affected, and more than 30% when more than one vessel is affected. Contraindications are diffuse coronary heart disease, when ejection fraction of the contractile segment is less than 30% reduction in contractility of the ventricular septum, and the generally applicable surgical contraindications.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of left ventricular aneurysm (author's transl)]. 174 cardiac aneurysms were resected between 1970 and 1977. In 49 patients the remaining contractile segment was revascularised at the same time. The hospital mortality was 10.3%, the late mortality was 14%. The uncorrected cumulative survival rate calculated by the acturial method was 90% at 3 years (84--96), and 80% at 5 years (74--85). Results were excellent or good in two thirds of the survivors; 44% were free of angina pectoris, 40% were improved, 73% had no disturbances of cardiac rhythm, and in 15% they were improved. Comparison of the pre- and postoperative ejection fraction showed that the indication for surgery of a cardiac aneurysm exists when more than 20% of the musculature of the left ventricle is affected, when the total ejection fraction is larger than 10% when one vessel is affected, and more than 30% when more than one vessel is affected. Contraindications are diffuse coronary heart disease, when ejection fraction of the contractile segment is less than 30% reduction in contractility of the ventricular septum, and the generally applicable surgical contraindications.", "PMID": 446279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7501", "title": "[Prevention of duodenal ulcer recurrence with cimetidine (author's transl)].", "content": "The effect of long-term prophylaxis of duodenal ulceration with cimetidine was tested in a double blind trial. In 20 patients treated with cimetidine there was a four-fold reduction in the relapse rate when compared with 18 placebo-treated patients. However, treatment of the acute phase of ulceration with cimetidine increased the recurrence rate more than five-fold when compared with placebo treatment. Slow healing of ulceration was followed by a two-fold incidence of recurrence when compared with rapid healing. From the results it is concluded that recurrence occurs in patients after slow healing and (or) previous cimetidine treatment if long-term prophylaxis with cimetidine is not carried out.", "contents": "[Prevention of duodenal ulcer recurrence with cimetidine (author's transl)]. The effect of long-term prophylaxis of duodenal ulceration with cimetidine was tested in a double blind trial. In 20 patients treated with cimetidine there was a four-fold reduction in the relapse rate when compared with 18 placebo-treated patients. However, treatment of the acute phase of ulceration with cimetidine increased the recurrence rate more than five-fold when compared with placebo treatment. Slow healing of ulceration was followed by a two-fold incidence of recurrence when compared with rapid healing. From the results it is concluded that recurrence occurs in patients after slow healing and (or) previous cimetidine treatment if long-term prophylaxis with cimetidine is not carried out.", "PMID": 446284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7502", "title": "[Acute renal failure in alcoholic myopathy (author's transl)].", "content": "Two chronic alcoholics developed acute renal failure from alcoholic myopathy (acute alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis). Severe muscle pain developed and was associated with transitory oligo-anuric renal failure, requiring dialysis in one patient. In addition to the typical history and clinical symptoms, excessive elevation of muscle enzymes, especially creatine-kinase, and the appearance of myoglobin in serum are characteristic. Brown discoloration of the urine and a falsely positive test for \"blood\" due to the presence of myoglobin in urine in the absence of red blood cells are also typical. Definite changes can be demonstrated histologically and electromyographically during the acute stage. It is likely that this condition is more frequent than the sparsity of published reports indicates.", "contents": "[Acute renal failure in alcoholic myopathy (author's transl)]. Two chronic alcoholics developed acute renal failure from alcoholic myopathy (acute alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis). Severe muscle pain developed and was associated with transitory oligo-anuric renal failure, requiring dialysis in one patient. In addition to the typical history and clinical symptoms, excessive elevation of muscle enzymes, especially creatine-kinase, and the appearance of myoglobin in serum are characteristic. Brown discoloration of the urine and a falsely positive test for \"blood\" due to the presence of myoglobin in urine in the absence of red blood cells are also typical. Definite changes can be demonstrated histologically and electromyographically during the acute stage. It is likely that this condition is more frequent than the sparsity of published reports indicates.", "PMID": 446285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7503", "title": "[The place of autotransfusion with normovolaemic haemodilution in vascular surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "The ever-increasing demand for donor blood, the risks of donor-blood transfusions and economic considerations have made the use of autotransfusion desirable. Among methods for producing autologous blood stores that of obtaining autologous blood with simultaneous normovolaemic haemodilution (using dextran 60; Macrodex 6%) 2--4 days before operation is especially practicable for elective reconstructive vascular surgery. But the same method can also be used in general surgery. Personal experience in operations on 120 patients has shown that the need for donor blood was reduced to 20% of all transfused blood. Improved flow properties of the blood by decreasing viscocity after normovolaemic haemodilution is of particular value in stages III and IV of chronic arterial occlusive disease.", "contents": "[The place of autotransfusion with normovolaemic haemodilution in vascular surgery (author's transl)]. The ever-increasing demand for donor blood, the risks of donor-blood transfusions and economic considerations have made the use of autotransfusion desirable. Among methods for producing autologous blood stores that of obtaining autologous blood with simultaneous normovolaemic haemodilution (using dextran 60; Macrodex 6%) 2--4 days before operation is especially practicable for elective reconstructive vascular surgery. But the same method can also be used in general surgery. Personal experience in operations on 120 patients has shown that the need for donor blood was reduced to 20% of all transfused blood. Improved flow properties of the blood by decreasing viscocity after normovolaemic haemodilution is of particular value in stages III and IV of chronic arterial occlusive disease.", "PMID": 446294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7504", "title": "[Diagnosis of peripheral arterial occlusive disease: clinical, haemodynamic and metabolic investigation (author's transl)].", "content": "The value of quantitative (venous-occlusion plethysmography), semiquantitative (ultrasound-Doppler method; walking distance; duration of bicycle ergometry) and metabolic (lactate, pyruvate) tests was assessed in 41 patients with arterial occlusive disease of the upper leg type. It was demonstrated that blood pressure measurement using the Doppler method is of great importance. Significant differentiation between normal and impaired blood flow was obtained with venous-occulsion plethysmography for both \"first flow\" and \"peak flow\". The diagnostic value as to the degree of peripheral arterial disease was similar for plethysmography and Doppler methods. Duration of bicycle ergometry provided an important pointer to the degree of functional impairment of the affected extremity. The level of lactate and pyruvate in femoral venous blood is suitable more for serial controls and assessment of treatment in patients in whom haemodynamic studies have already clarified the diagnosis of impaired blood flow.", "contents": "[Diagnosis of peripheral arterial occlusive disease: clinical, haemodynamic and metabolic investigation (author's transl)]. The value of quantitative (venous-occlusion plethysmography), semiquantitative (ultrasound-Doppler method; walking distance; duration of bicycle ergometry) and metabolic (lactate, pyruvate) tests was assessed in 41 patients with arterial occlusive disease of the upper leg type. It was demonstrated that blood pressure measurement using the Doppler method is of great importance. Significant differentiation between normal and impaired blood flow was obtained with venous-occulsion plethysmography for both \"first flow\" and \"peak flow\". The diagnostic value as to the degree of peripheral arterial disease was similar for plethysmography and Doppler methods. Duration of bicycle ergometry provided an important pointer to the degree of functional impairment of the affected extremity. The level of lactate and pyruvate in femoral venous blood is suitable more for serial controls and assessment of treatment in patients in whom haemodynamic studies have already clarified the diagnosis of impaired blood flow.", "PMID": 446295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7505", "title": "[Diabetic neuropathic cachexia (author's transl)].", "content": "Marked weight loss with cachexia together with severe depression and pain from symmetrical peripheral neuropathy were noted in a 66-year-old man, known to have had diabetes for six years, which required insulin on admission to hospital. The patient died of bronchopneumonia after one year. The severe neuropathy was proven both neurophysiologically and at necropsy. There was no diabetic retinopathy and no histological evidence of renal glomerulosclerosis. There was no evidence of a malignant tumour either clinically or at necropsy.", "contents": "[Diabetic neuropathic cachexia (author's transl)]. Marked weight loss with cachexia together with severe depression and pain from symmetrical peripheral neuropathy were noted in a 66-year-old man, known to have had diabetes for six years, which required insulin on admission to hospital. The patient died of bronchopneumonia after one year. The severe neuropathy was proven both neurophysiologically and at necropsy. There was no diabetic retinopathy and no histological evidence of renal glomerulosclerosis. There was no evidence of a malignant tumour either clinically or at necropsy.", "PMID": 446296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7506", "title": "[Surgical treatment of pulmonary metastases (author's transl)].", "content": "120 pulmonary metastases were resected in 67 patients. The five year survival rate is 42.3% after surgical removal and only 2.6% without surgery. Up to 4 resected pulmonary metastases have no influence on the prognosis. In cases with several metastases resection should be strictly limited. Lobectomy had the best five year survival rate (58%); wedge excision and pneumonectomy fared clearly worse (25% each). When the lung is the first filtre of haematogenous metastases the five year survival rate is better (48%) than when the liver filters first (18.5%). A prolonged interval before recurrence improves prognosis. Intervals of less than a year lead to survival after 4 years in only 14.5%, intervals of more than two years are accompanied by survival of 65%.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of pulmonary metastases (author's transl)]. 120 pulmonary metastases were resected in 67 patients. The five year survival rate is 42.3% after surgical removal and only 2.6% without surgery. Up to 4 resected pulmonary metastases have no influence on the prognosis. In cases with several metastases resection should be strictly limited. Lobectomy had the best five year survival rate (58%); wedge excision and pneumonectomy fared clearly worse (25% each). When the lung is the first filtre of haematogenous metastases the five year survival rate is better (48%) than when the liver filters first (18.5%). A prolonged interval before recurrence improves prognosis. Intervals of less than a year lead to survival after 4 years in only 14.5%, intervals of more than two years are accompanied by survival of 65%.", "PMID": 446302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7507", "title": "[Routine diagnosis of bacteriuria: estimation of urinary sediment or counting blood cells? (author's transl)].", "content": "Testing of a method of bacteriuria diagnosis which would be feasible for outpatient routine work and highly reliable while requiring little cost and effort, revealed the clear superiority of examining the uncentrifuged urine in the counting chamber over the sedimentation method. Whereas the accuracy of the sedimentation method in bacteriuria diagnosis is about 50%, the counting chamber method gave correct results in more than 90% of the cases. This entails saving in terms of manhours. The only drawback of the counting chamber method is its higher rate of false-positive findings caused by the fact that the microscopic identification of bacteria enters into the final count. This drawback, however, is more than made up by the reduced amount of material and time involved in this procedure.", "contents": "[Routine diagnosis of bacteriuria: estimation of urinary sediment or counting blood cells? (author's transl)]. Testing of a method of bacteriuria diagnosis which would be feasible for outpatient routine work and highly reliable while requiring little cost and effort, revealed the clear superiority of examining the uncentrifuged urine in the counting chamber over the sedimentation method. Whereas the accuracy of the sedimentation method in bacteriuria diagnosis is about 50%, the counting chamber method gave correct results in more than 90% of the cases. This entails saving in terms of manhours. The only drawback of the counting chamber method is its higher rate of false-positive findings caused by the fact that the microscopic identification of bacteria enters into the final count. This drawback, however, is more than made up by the reduced amount of material and time involved in this procedure.", "PMID": 446308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7508", "title": "[Combined chemotherapy of metastasing melanoblastoma using ifosfamide and cis-platinum (II)-diamminodichloride (author's transl)].", "content": "15 patients with metastasing melanoblastoma of stage III and IV were treated with a combination of cis-platinum (II)-diamminodichloride and ifosfamide. In 3 cases complete remission occurred, in 5 partial remission with tumour regression of more than 50%. The response rate is around 50% at present. Two cases showed no change after 6 months of chemotherapy.", "contents": "[Combined chemotherapy of metastasing melanoblastoma using ifosfamide and cis-platinum (II)-diamminodichloride (author's transl)]. 15 patients with metastasing melanoblastoma of stage III and IV were treated with a combination of cis-platinum (II)-diamminodichloride and ifosfamide. In 3 cases complete remission occurred, in 5 partial remission with tumour regression of more than 50%. The response rate is around 50% at present. Two cases showed no change after 6 months of chemotherapy.", "PMID": 446309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7509", "title": "[Cytological diagnosis of thyroiditis (author's transl)].", "content": "In 2347 patients fine needle aspiration of the thyroid gland was performed. In 49 cases (2.1%), a final diagnosis of thyroiditis was established. Non-specific granulomatous thyroiditis occurred most frequently (n = 24), followed by lymphocytic hypertrophic thyroiditis Hashimoto (n = 18), focal lymphocytic (n = 5), atrophic lymphocytic (n = 1) and chronic fibrosing thyroiditis (n = 1). Fine needle aspiration biopsy is most suited to diagnose granulomatous thyroiditis. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis cytological investigations are superior to estimation of thyroglobulin antibodies. The cytological method is of little value for the diagnosis of atrophic lymphocytic and chronic fibrosing thyroiditis.", "contents": "[Cytological diagnosis of thyroiditis (author's transl)]. In 2347 patients fine needle aspiration of the thyroid gland was performed. In 49 cases (2.1%), a final diagnosis of thyroiditis was established. Non-specific granulomatous thyroiditis occurred most frequently (n = 24), followed by lymphocytic hypertrophic thyroiditis Hashimoto (n = 18), focal lymphocytic (n = 5), atrophic lymphocytic (n = 1) and chronic fibrosing thyroiditis (n = 1). Fine needle aspiration biopsy is most suited to diagnose granulomatous thyroiditis. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis cytological investigations are superior to estimation of thyroglobulin antibodies. The cytological method is of little value for the diagnosis of atrophic lymphocytic and chronic fibrosing thyroiditis.", "PMID": 446310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7510", "title": "[Biological availability of spironolactone in two different galenic forms (author's transl)].", "content": "The biological availability of spironolactone in two different galenic preparations (Spiro-Tablinen and Aldactone-100 Caps) was investigated in a single-blind, randomised, cross-over study in six healthy probands. The serum concentration of canrenone after oral intake of spironolactone (100 mg) was investigated in the steady state as well as the renal excretion of canrenone. There were no statistically significant differences between the two preparations either in the course of the serum concentration of canrenone or in the cumulative renal excretion.", "contents": "[Biological availability of spironolactone in two different galenic forms (author's transl)]. The biological availability of spironolactone in two different galenic preparations (Spiro-Tablinen and Aldactone-100 Caps) was investigated in a single-blind, randomised, cross-over study in six healthy probands. The serum concentration of canrenone after oral intake of spironolactone (100 mg) was investigated in the steady state as well as the renal excretion of canrenone. There were no statistically significant differences between the two preparations either in the course of the serum concentration of canrenone or in the cumulative renal excretion.", "PMID": 446311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7511", "title": "[Treatment of reflux oesophagitis with cimetidine (author's transl)].", "content": "The effect of cimetidine on reflux oesophagitis was studied in a double-blind trial. Sixteen patients were given cimetidine 1.6 g/d, 20 patients received a placebo. Within the first six weeks the oesophagitis improved both on cimetidine and the placebo, but the patients taking the former had fewer complaints during the day than those on a placebo. Continuing the regimen for another six weeks further improved the endoscopic findings in patients with cimetidine but not in those on placebos. Complaints lessened during the sixth to twelfth week during cimetidine treatment, but remained unchanged under placebo administration. Complete healing of the oesophagitis was achieved in only 33% of patients with uncomplicated oesophagitis (grade I-III) and in 6% of those with severe complicated oesophagitis (grade IV). If non-surgical treatment is indicated, it must be continued through at least 6-12 weeks.", "contents": "[Treatment of reflux oesophagitis with cimetidine (author's transl)]. The effect of cimetidine on reflux oesophagitis was studied in a double-blind trial. Sixteen patients were given cimetidine 1.6 g/d, 20 patients received a placebo. Within the first six weeks the oesophagitis improved both on cimetidine and the placebo, but the patients taking the former had fewer complaints during the day than those on a placebo. Continuing the regimen for another six weeks further improved the endoscopic findings in patients with cimetidine but not in those on placebos. Complaints lessened during the sixth to twelfth week during cimetidine treatment, but remained unchanged under placebo administration. Complete healing of the oesophagitis was achieved in only 33% of patients with uncomplicated oesophagitis (grade I-III) and in 6% of those with severe complicated oesophagitis (grade IV). If non-surgical treatment is indicated, it must be continued through at least 6-12 weeks.", "PMID": 446319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7512", "title": "[Demineralisation of bone in chronic arterial insufficiency (author's transl)].", "content": "125I-nuclide-absorption measurement demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in mineral content of the calcaneus in 44 patients with arteriographically proven arterial occlusive disease of the lower limbs. The loss of mineral content was dependent on the clinical degree of the vascular disorder (stages according to Fontaine's classification) and the site of the arterial occlusion. There was no demonstrable relationship between the degree of demineralisation and the duration of the vascular disorder. If treatment proved successful there was a significant rise in the mineral content of the calcaneus.", "contents": "[Demineralisation of bone in chronic arterial insufficiency (author's transl)]. 125I-nuclide-absorption measurement demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in mineral content of the calcaneus in 44 patients with arteriographically proven arterial occlusive disease of the lower limbs. The loss of mineral content was dependent on the clinical degree of the vascular disorder (stages according to Fontaine's classification) and the site of the arterial occlusion. There was no demonstrable relationship between the degree of demineralisation and the duration of the vascular disorder. If treatment proved successful there was a significant rise in the mineral content of the calcaneus.", "PMID": 446320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7513", "title": "[Course of alcoholic predelirium during treatment with piracetam: results of serial psychometric tests (author's transl)].", "content": "Thirty-six male alcoholics in a mild predelirial state were studied with a series of psychometric tests (reaction time to light and sound, reaction to multiple sequential stimuli, apprehension and tachistoscopic appreciation test, achievement and concentration test analogous to the Pauli test). The degree of psychometrically determined abnormalities pointed to serious cerebral lesions even in the mild predelirial stage and exceeded the expectations gained from clinical impression. The disorders decreased in the course of treatment but were present for at least another three days. Additional treatment with piracetam (Normabrain, Nootrop, 9 g/d intravenously) in eighteen patients significantly improved the results of the achievement and concentration tests, while there was no or only slight improvement in the other tests.", "contents": "[Course of alcoholic predelirium during treatment with piracetam: results of serial psychometric tests (author's transl)]. Thirty-six male alcoholics in a mild predelirial state were studied with a series of psychometric tests (reaction time to light and sound, reaction to multiple sequential stimuli, apprehension and tachistoscopic appreciation test, achievement and concentration test analogous to the Pauli test). The degree of psychometrically determined abnormalities pointed to serious cerebral lesions even in the mild predelirial stage and exceeded the expectations gained from clinical impression. The disorders decreased in the course of treatment but were present for at least another three days. Additional treatment with piracetam (Normabrain, Nootrop, 9 g/d intravenously) in eighteen patients significantly improved the results of the achievement and concentration tests, while there was no or only slight improvement in the other tests.", "PMID": 446321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7514", "title": "[The influence of primidone on thyroid function (author's transl)].", "content": "The influence of primidone on thyroxine level, T3 index, FT4 index, triiodothyronine level, T3 (RIA)/T4 (RIA) quotient as well as on the TSH basal and stimulated values was investigated in 30 children on long-term treatment. The values obtained were compared statistically with those of a normal group. During primidone treatment a drop in T4 level and in FT4 index as well as an increase in T3 (RIA)/T4 (RIA) quotient was observed. On the other hand the triiodothyronine level and the T3 index were not influenced. The TSH basal and stimulated values were not statistically different from the control group. Thus the primidone-treated children are euthyroid according to the TRH test. Primidone probably stimulates hepatocellular thyroxine breakdown.", "contents": "[The influence of primidone on thyroid function (author's transl)]. The influence of primidone on thyroxine level, T3 index, FT4 index, triiodothyronine level, T3 (RIA)/T4 (RIA) quotient as well as on the TSH basal and stimulated values was investigated in 30 children on long-term treatment. The values obtained were compared statistically with those of a normal group. During primidone treatment a drop in T4 level and in FT4 index as well as an increase in T3 (RIA)/T4 (RIA) quotient was observed. On the other hand the triiodothyronine level and the T3 index were not influenced. The TSH basal and stimulated values were not statistically different from the control group. Thus the primidone-treated children are euthyroid according to the TRH test. Primidone probably stimulates hepatocellular thyroxine breakdown.", "PMID": 446322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7515", "title": "Half-life of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in canine plasma.", "content": "Previous estimates of the half-life of synthetic somatostatin have been based upon the disappearance rate of 125I-labeled Tyr1-somatostatin. In the present study, the half-life of infused synthetic somatostatin was determined by RIA and compared with the duration of its suppressive action upon plasma insulin and glucagon. After the end of a 2-h infusion of somatostatin (500 ng/min), the radioimmunologically measured half-life was 1.82 min. The reappearance half-times for insulin and glucagon were 1.4 and 6.7 min, respectively. These data show that calculations of the half-life of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in plasma may differ from estimates based on the duration of its biological activities, which may differ from one another.", "contents": "Half-life of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in canine plasma. Previous estimates of the half-life of synthetic somatostatin have been based upon the disappearance rate of 125I-labeled Tyr1-somatostatin. In the present study, the half-life of infused synthetic somatostatin was determined by RIA and compared with the duration of its suppressive action upon plasma insulin and glucagon. After the end of a 2-h infusion of somatostatin (500 ng/min), the radioimmunologically measured half-life was 1.82 min. The reappearance half-times for insulin and glucagon were 1.4 and 6.7 min, respectively. These data show that calculations of the half-life of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in plasma may differ from estimates based on the duration of its biological activities, which may differ from one another.", "PMID": 446338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7516", "title": "Antifertility effects of an aromatase inhibitor, 1,4,6-androstatriene-3, 17-dione.", "content": "1,4,6-Androstatriene-3,17-dione (ATD), previously reported by us to be an aromatase (estrogen synthetase) inhibitor, was found effective in inhibiting mating and ovulation in the rat. Mating did not occur for as long as treatment was continued (up to 13 days) in 68% of the rats. In the remainder, mating and ovulation were delayed for at least 4 days past the expected day of proestrus and for an average of 5.8 days. Five animals which had been treated for 6 days mated 2 days after treatment was discontinued and all were pregnant at autopsy on day 8 of pregnancy. In contrast, when treatment was continued after mating, implantation sites were absent when the animals were examined on day 8 of pregnancy, indicating ATD may also be effective postcoitally. ATD had no significant hormonal activity in bioassay but prevented the rise in ovarian estradiol secretion on the afternoon of proestrus. Estradiol benzoate counteracted the effect of ATD when administered concomitantly, so that mating occurred at the normal time in all eight rats and ovulation occurred in six of the eight rats. The above results suggest that the aromatase inhibitor, ATD, may act in vivo to inhibit fertility by inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis.", "contents": "Antifertility effects of an aromatase inhibitor, 1,4,6-androstatriene-3, 17-dione. 1,4,6-Androstatriene-3,17-dione (ATD), previously reported by us to be an aromatase (estrogen synthetase) inhibitor, was found effective in inhibiting mating and ovulation in the rat. Mating did not occur for as long as treatment was continued (up to 13 days) in 68% of the rats. In the remainder, mating and ovulation were delayed for at least 4 days past the expected day of proestrus and for an average of 5.8 days. Five animals which had been treated for 6 days mated 2 days after treatment was discontinued and all were pregnant at autopsy on day 8 of pregnancy. In contrast, when treatment was continued after mating, implantation sites were absent when the animals were examined on day 8 of pregnancy, indicating ATD may also be effective postcoitally. ATD had no significant hormonal activity in bioassay but prevented the rise in ovarian estradiol secretion on the afternoon of proestrus. Estradiol benzoate counteracted the effect of ATD when administered concomitantly, so that mating occurred at the normal time in all eight rats and ovulation occurred in six of the eight rats. The above results suggest that the aromatase inhibitor, ATD, may act in vivo to inhibit fertility by inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis.", "PMID": 446339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7517", "title": "Angiotensin stimulation of vasopressin release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system in organ culture.", "content": "Angiotensin II (AII) stimulated vasopressin (VP) release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system (HNS) in organ culture in a concentration-dependent manner. Exposure to AII at 10(-8) M for 1 hr yielded a 1.8-fold increase in VP release over control release (P less than 0.01), while a 1-h exposure to 10(-5) M AII resulted in a 4-fold increment over control VP release by HNS explants maintained in organ culture for 3 days (P less than 0.01). Saralasin, an AII antagonist, blocked AII stimulation of VP release without significantly altering basal VP release by the HNS explants. Saralasin did not interfere with stimulation of VP release by acetylcholine or nicotine. Tetrodotoxin (10(-7) g/ml) also blocked AII stimulation of VP release. These findings suggest that action potentials are generated in response to AII stimulation of specific receptors in the HNS and are requisite for VP release in response to this stimulus.", "contents": "Angiotensin stimulation of vasopressin release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system in organ culture. Angiotensin II (AII) stimulated vasopressin (VP) release from the rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system (HNS) in organ culture in a concentration-dependent manner. Exposure to AII at 10(-8) M for 1 hr yielded a 1.8-fold increase in VP release over control release (P less than 0.01), while a 1-h exposure to 10(-5) M AII resulted in a 4-fold increment over control VP release by HNS explants maintained in organ culture for 3 days (P less than 0.01). Saralasin, an AII antagonist, blocked AII stimulation of VP release without significantly altering basal VP release by the HNS explants. Saralasin did not interfere with stimulation of VP release by acetylcholine or nicotine. Tetrodotoxin (10(-7) g/ml) also blocked AII stimulation of VP release. These findings suggest that action potentials are generated in response to AII stimulation of specific receptors in the HNS and are requisite for VP release in response to this stimulus.", "PMID": 446341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7518", "title": "Corticosterone levels during midgestation in the maternal plasma and fetus of cleft palate-sensitive and -resistant mice.", "content": "Corticosterone levels in the maternal plasma and fetal extracts during days 11--15 of gestation were measured by RIA in cleft palate-sensitive A/J and -resistant C57BL/6J mice. In both strains, the maternal plasma corticosterone increased from 10 micrograms/100 ml in nonpregnant animals to 100 microgram/100 ml between days 12--13. In A/J mice, the corticosterone level declined to 60 micrograms/100 ml by day 15, whereas in C57BL/6J mice, the corticosterone concentration remained elevated during this period. In contrast, fetal corticosterone levels in both strains remained unchanged between days 11-13 (0.5--1.0 ng/embryo) and increased on days 14 and 15 to 4--7 ng/embryo. The absence of significant differences in the concentration of maternal or fetal corticosterone between A/J and C57BL/6J mice suggests that the in vivo strain differences in the glucocorticoid susceptibility to cleft palate production are not related to any intrinsic differences in the endogenous levels of corticosterone between these two strains during midgestation.", "contents": "Corticosterone levels during midgestation in the maternal plasma and fetus of cleft palate-sensitive and -resistant mice. Corticosterone levels in the maternal plasma and fetal extracts during days 11--15 of gestation were measured by RIA in cleft palate-sensitive A/J and -resistant C57BL/6J mice. In both strains, the maternal plasma corticosterone increased from 10 micrograms/100 ml in nonpregnant animals to 100 microgram/100 ml between days 12--13. In A/J mice, the corticosterone level declined to 60 micrograms/100 ml by day 15, whereas in C57BL/6J mice, the corticosterone concentration remained elevated during this period. In contrast, fetal corticosterone levels in both strains remained unchanged between days 11-13 (0.5--1.0 ng/embryo) and increased on days 14 and 15 to 4--7 ng/embryo. The absence of significant differences in the concentration of maternal or fetal corticosterone between A/J and C57BL/6J mice suggests that the in vivo strain differences in the glucocorticoid susceptibility to cleft palate production are not related to any intrinsic differences in the endogenous levels of corticosterone between these two strains during midgestation.", "PMID": 446342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7519", "title": "Stimulation of thyroglobulin synthesis in thyroid polysomes by soluble factors from reticulocyte lysate.", "content": "The addition of rabbit reticulocyte lysate supernate to membrane-bound calf thyroid polysomes resulted in stimulation of [3H]leucine incorporation into acid-precipitable material; 91% of these total radioactive peptides was precipitated by thyroglobulin antibodies. The ability of reticulocyte lysate supernate to stimulate thyroglobulin syntheis was pH and temperature sensitive. The addition of 25 microM aurintricarboxylic acid resulted in an 85% inhibition of [3H]leucine incorporation.", "contents": "Stimulation of thyroglobulin synthesis in thyroid polysomes by soluble factors from reticulocyte lysate. The addition of rabbit reticulocyte lysate supernate to membrane-bound calf thyroid polysomes resulted in stimulation of [3H]leucine incorporation into acid-precipitable material; 91% of these total radioactive peptides was precipitated by thyroglobulin antibodies. The ability of reticulocyte lysate supernate to stimulate thyroglobulin syntheis was pH and temperature sensitive. The addition of 25 microM aurintricarboxylic acid resulted in an 85% inhibition of [3H]leucine incorporation.", "PMID": 446343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7520", "title": "In vivo patterns of circulating steroids in adult male rats. I. Variations in testosterone during 24- and 48-hour standard and reverse light/dark cycles.", "content": "The in vivo pattern of circulating testosterone (T) was investigated in unrestrained, conscious, individual male rats during 24 and 48 h. Each rat exhibited its own characteristic in vivo diurnal rhythm. When these individual patterns of T were grouped, the mean values also showed a diurnal rhythm. Although T concentrations peaked during the dark and light periods, the most pronounced elevations were observed during the dark periods (2200--2330 h). Lowest T concentrations were noted during the late dark and early light hours (0400--0700 h). The pattern of T was further investigated by extending the experimental period to 48 h. The pattern of T observed during the first 24 h repeated itself on the second day, thus demonstrating the authenticity of this diurnal rhythm. Rats were exposed to a reversed light/dark regimen which resulted in an inversion of the rhythm or circulating T. These data indicate that the pattern of circulating T is not intrinsically regulated.", "contents": "In vivo patterns of circulating steroids in adult male rats. I. Variations in testosterone during 24- and 48-hour standard and reverse light/dark cycles. The in vivo pattern of circulating testosterone (T) was investigated in unrestrained, conscious, individual male rats during 24 and 48 h. Each rat exhibited its own characteristic in vivo diurnal rhythm. When these individual patterns of T were grouped, the mean values also showed a diurnal rhythm. Although T concentrations peaked during the dark and light periods, the most pronounced elevations were observed during the dark periods (2200--2330 h). Lowest T concentrations were noted during the late dark and early light hours (0400--0700 h). The pattern of T was further investigated by extending the experimental period to 48 h. The pattern of T observed during the first 24 h repeated itself on the second day, thus demonstrating the authenticity of this diurnal rhythm. Rats were exposed to a reversed light/dark regimen which resulted in an inversion of the rhythm or circulating T. These data indicate that the pattern of circulating T is not intrinsically regulated.", "PMID": 446345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7521", "title": "Modulation of follicle-stimulating hormone-sensitive rat testicular adenylate cyclase activity by guanyl nucleotides.", "content": "We have studied modulation of FSH-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in testes of immature rats by guanyl nucleotides. Highly purified hFSH alone stimulated adenylate cyclase activity 2.2-fold over basal levels. Addition of the GTP analog, 5'-guanylyl imidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p], caused an additional 2.8-fold augmentation of adenylate cyclase activity to 6 times over basal levels and 3.7 times greater than that seen in the presence of Gpp(NH)p alone. GTP did not significantly stimulate basal levels of adenylate cyclase and augmented FSH stimulated activity by 1.4-fold; other nucleotides were without effect. Half-maximum activation of adenylate cyclase in each instance was produced by approximately similar concentrations of either guanyl nucleotide (about 10 microM). The Km for hormone activation of adenylate cyclase was nearly the same in the presence and absence of Gpp(NH)p. Maximum adenylate cyclase stimulation in the presence of nucleotide and/or hRSH was always less than obtained by fluoride alone. Of all nucleotides tested, only GTP and its analog, Gpp(NH)p, significantly augmented FSH stimulation of testicular adenylate cyclase activity. Gpp(NH)p also markedly inhibited binding of radiolabeled hFSH to testicular receptor, but at a concentration 15-fold greater than that required for significant stimulation of testicular adenylate cyclase activity. The results suggest a specific role for guanyl nucleoside triphosphate in regulation of FSH effects on testicular adenylate cyclase activity.", "contents": "Modulation of follicle-stimulating hormone-sensitive rat testicular adenylate cyclase activity by guanyl nucleotides. We have studied modulation of FSH-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in testes of immature rats by guanyl nucleotides. Highly purified hFSH alone stimulated adenylate cyclase activity 2.2-fold over basal levels. Addition of the GTP analog, 5'-guanylyl imidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p], caused an additional 2.8-fold augmentation of adenylate cyclase activity to 6 times over basal levels and 3.7 times greater than that seen in the presence of Gpp(NH)p alone. GTP did not significantly stimulate basal levels of adenylate cyclase and augmented FSH stimulated activity by 1.4-fold; other nucleotides were without effect. Half-maximum activation of adenylate cyclase in each instance was produced by approximately similar concentrations of either guanyl nucleotide (about 10 microM). The Km for hormone activation of adenylate cyclase was nearly the same in the presence and absence of Gpp(NH)p. Maximum adenylate cyclase stimulation in the presence of nucleotide and/or hRSH was always less than obtained by fluoride alone. Of all nucleotides tested, only GTP and its analog, Gpp(NH)p, significantly augmented FSH stimulation of testicular adenylate cyclase activity. Gpp(NH)p also markedly inhibited binding of radiolabeled hFSH to testicular receptor, but at a concentration 15-fold greater than that required for significant stimulation of testicular adenylate cyclase activity. The results suggest a specific role for guanyl nucleoside triphosphate in regulation of FSH effects on testicular adenylate cyclase activity.", "PMID": 446346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7522", "title": "Autonomous secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone by long term organ cultures of rat pituitaries.", "content": "Pituitaries removed from ovariectomized adult rats were maintained for 18 weeks in organ culture using three different culture media. Gonadotropin secretion was assessed by RIA and was correlated with the histological features of the cultures. In medium favoring prolonged survival of the cultures, LH content of the medium fell to a low level within a few days. In the same cultures, FSH production initially decreased before increasing and leveling at a plateau which persisted until the end of the culture period. Cultures in medium unsuitable for long term survival of pituitary tissue displayed a similar decrease in LH production along with a gradual fall of FSH. It was concluded that contrary to LH, FSH may be secreted autonomously by pituitaries removed from hypothalamic control, provided that culture conditions are adequate for survival of gonadotropes.", "contents": "Autonomous secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone by long term organ cultures of rat pituitaries. Pituitaries removed from ovariectomized adult rats were maintained for 18 weeks in organ culture using three different culture media. Gonadotropin secretion was assessed by RIA and was correlated with the histological features of the cultures. In medium favoring prolonged survival of the cultures, LH content of the medium fell to a low level within a few days. In the same cultures, FSH production initially decreased before increasing and leveling at a plateau which persisted until the end of the culture period. Cultures in medium unsuitable for long term survival of pituitary tissue displayed a similar decrease in LH production along with a gradual fall of FSH. It was concluded that contrary to LH, FSH may be secreted autonomously by pituitaries removed from hypothalamic control, provided that culture conditions are adequate for survival of gonadotropes.", "PMID": 446347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7523", "title": "Effect of fasting on insulin binding to hepatocytes and liver plasma membranes from rats.", "content": "Binding of [125I]iodoinsulin to isolated hepatocytes from fed and fasted rats was measured. Hepatocytes from fed rats bound significanlty more [125I]iodoinsulin at insulin concentrations ranging from 0.15--100 nM. Scatchard and average affinity profile data analyses showed no significant difference in the affinities of the binding sites but indicated a decrease in the receptor concentration of the hepatocytes from fasted rats. In contrast to hepatocytes, liver plasma membranes of fasted rats showed increased insulin binding at all insulin concentrations, except the highest level of 100 nM. Analysis of the data indicated a significant increase in the affinity of the receptors but no change in the receptor concentration. Evidence is presented that the differences in the results obtained with hepatocytes and membranes were not due to the differences in the recovery of the plasma membranes. The results suggest that insulin binding by intact hepatocytes does not necessarily reflect the receptor protein content of the cell membrane and that the liver cell modulates its response to insulin by changes in the architecture of the plasma membrane.", "contents": "Effect of fasting on insulin binding to hepatocytes and liver plasma membranes from rats. Binding of [125I]iodoinsulin to isolated hepatocytes from fed and fasted rats was measured. Hepatocytes from fed rats bound significanlty more [125I]iodoinsulin at insulin concentrations ranging from 0.15--100 nM. Scatchard and average affinity profile data analyses showed no significant difference in the affinities of the binding sites but indicated a decrease in the receptor concentration of the hepatocytes from fasted rats. In contrast to hepatocytes, liver plasma membranes of fasted rats showed increased insulin binding at all insulin concentrations, except the highest level of 100 nM. Analysis of the data indicated a significant increase in the affinity of the receptors but no change in the receptor concentration. Evidence is presented that the differences in the results obtained with hepatocytes and membranes were not due to the differences in the recovery of the plasma membranes. The results suggest that insulin binding by intact hepatocytes does not necessarily reflect the receptor protein content of the cell membrane and that the liver cell modulates its response to insulin by changes in the architecture of the plasma membrane.", "PMID": 446348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7524", "title": "The effect of subcutaneous injections of melatonin, arginine vasotocin, and related peptides on pituitary and plasma levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and prolactin in castrated adult male rats.", "content": "A sc injection of 2 micrograms arginine vasotocin (AVT) administered every 2 h for a 25-h period starting 1 h after castration of adult male rats caused a 43% reduction (P less than 0.05) in plasma levels of LH compared to diluent-treated castrated controls. In Exp 2, a sc injection of 5 micrograms AVT or diluent was administered to intact or acutely castrated male rats every 3 h for 48 h. After AVT administration, both plasma LH (P less than 0.001) and FSH (P less than 0.05) were significantly reduced, with a concomitant increase in pituitary levels of these gonadotropins. Using the same injection regimen in Exp 3, 250 micrograms melatonin had no effect on plasma or pituitary levels of LH in castrated male rats. In the fourth experiment, neither 1 IU arginine vasopressin nor 1 IU oxytocin had an effect on plasma or pituitary levels of LH, whereas 1 IU of AVT significantly lowered plasma levels of LH (P less than 0.05) and prevented the fall in the pituitary level of this gonadotropin (P less than 0.01) when compared to diluent-treated castrated control rats. Oxytocin (1 IU) significantly inhibited (P less than 0.01) plasma levels of FSH and raised plasma levels of PRL (P less than 0.01) in castrated male rats. No effect on plasma titers of PRL were observed after treatment of castrated rats with AVT in Exp 2 or 4. It is concluded that in acutely castrated male rats, AVT could possibly act either on the hypothalamus and/or the pituitary to affect pituitary and plasma levels of gonadotropins.", "contents": "The effect of subcutaneous injections of melatonin, arginine vasotocin, and related peptides on pituitary and plasma levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and prolactin in castrated adult male rats. A sc injection of 2 micrograms arginine vasotocin (AVT) administered every 2 h for a 25-h period starting 1 h after castration of adult male rats caused a 43% reduction (P less than 0.05) in plasma levels of LH compared to diluent-treated castrated controls. In Exp 2, a sc injection of 5 micrograms AVT or diluent was administered to intact or acutely castrated male rats every 3 h for 48 h. After AVT administration, both plasma LH (P less than 0.001) and FSH (P less than 0.05) were significantly reduced, with a concomitant increase in pituitary levels of these gonadotropins. Using the same injection regimen in Exp 3, 250 micrograms melatonin had no effect on plasma or pituitary levels of LH in castrated male rats. In the fourth experiment, neither 1 IU arginine vasopressin nor 1 IU oxytocin had an effect on plasma or pituitary levels of LH, whereas 1 IU of AVT significantly lowered plasma levels of LH (P less than 0.05) and prevented the fall in the pituitary level of this gonadotropin (P less than 0.01) when compared to diluent-treated castrated control rats. Oxytocin (1 IU) significantly inhibited (P less than 0.01) plasma levels of FSH and raised plasma levels of PRL (P less than 0.01) in castrated male rats. No effect on plasma titers of PRL were observed after treatment of castrated rats with AVT in Exp 2 or 4. It is concluded that in acutely castrated male rats, AVT could possibly act either on the hypothalamus and/or the pituitary to affect pituitary and plasma levels of gonadotropins.", "PMID": 446349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7525", "title": "Studies on rat pituitary homografts. I. In vitro biosynthesis and release of growth hormone and prolactin.", "content": "Homologous anterior pituitaries grafted under the kidney capsule in hypophysectomized rats were studied 30 days after transplantation. Some cells maintained the ultrastructural features peculiar to the various cell types of normotopic glands, while the others were characterized by few, small, dense granules, spherical or polymorphic, located peripherally in the cytoplasm. This picture might be due to a functional adaptation which occurs in pituitary cells still producing different hormones, once removed from central nervous system control. The major change in polypeptide hormone composition of graft homogenates relative to normotopic pituitaries is the fall in GH and PRL concentration. The in vitro incorporation of L-[3H]leucine into the two hormones and the release of radioactive GH and PRL from L-[3H]leucine-prelabeled tissue fragments are also greatly decreased. The decrease in concentration, in vitro biosynthesis, and release of GH per mg tissue protein are approximately 87, 91, and 93%, respectively. These results might be due primarily to a decrease in the number of somatotrophs and/or in their secretory activity, with relatively minor changes in GH intracellular transport and turnover. In contrast, a clear-cut fall in in vitro turnover was detected for PRL, as shown by the fact that decreases in biosynthesis and release per mg tissue protein of this hormone (approximately -95% and -99%, respectively) by far exceed the decrease in the tissue concentration (-74%). These data indicate that in in vitro secretory activity of mammotrophs is greatly reduced in the grafts with respect to the normotopic glands. Thus, the high secretory activity previously reported in hypophysectomized rats bearing pituitary grafts should be attributed to the lack of the inhibitory control of the central nervous system rather than to an increase in secretory capacity under nonrestrained conditions.", "contents": "Studies on rat pituitary homografts. I. In vitro biosynthesis and release of growth hormone and prolactin. Homologous anterior pituitaries grafted under the kidney capsule in hypophysectomized rats were studied 30 days after transplantation. Some cells maintained the ultrastructural features peculiar to the various cell types of normotopic glands, while the others were characterized by few, small, dense granules, spherical or polymorphic, located peripherally in the cytoplasm. This picture might be due to a functional adaptation which occurs in pituitary cells still producing different hormones, once removed from central nervous system control. The major change in polypeptide hormone composition of graft homogenates relative to normotopic pituitaries is the fall in GH and PRL concentration. The in vitro incorporation of L-[3H]leucine into the two hormones and the release of radioactive GH and PRL from L-[3H]leucine-prelabeled tissue fragments are also greatly decreased. The decrease in concentration, in vitro biosynthesis, and release of GH per mg tissue protein are approximately 87, 91, and 93%, respectively. These results might be due primarily to a decrease in the number of somatotrophs and/or in their secretory activity, with relatively minor changes in GH intracellular transport and turnover. In contrast, a clear-cut fall in in vitro turnover was detected for PRL, as shown by the fact that decreases in biosynthesis and release per mg tissue protein of this hormone (approximately -95% and -99%, respectively) by far exceed the decrease in the tissue concentration (-74%). These data indicate that in in vitro secretory activity of mammotrophs is greatly reduced in the grafts with respect to the normotopic glands. Thus, the high secretory activity previously reported in hypophysectomized rats bearing pituitary grafts should be attributed to the lack of the inhibitory control of the central nervous system rather than to an increase in secretory capacity under nonrestrained conditions.", "PMID": 446350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7526", "title": "Subcellular distributions of parathyroid hormone, hormonal precursors, and parathyroid secretory protein.", "content": "Distributions of parathyroid hormone (PTH), proparathyroid hormone (ProPTH), preproparathyroid hormone (PreProPTH), and parathyroid secretory protein (PSP) were analyzed in subcellular fractions prepared from homogenates of bovine parathyroid glands. Slices of bovine parathyroid glands were incubated with radiolabeled amino acids for 3--30 min to selectively label newly synthesized proteins. Subcellular fractions were prepared from homogenates of the gland slices by differential centrifugation. Newly synthesized labeled hormonal polypeptides in the fractions were analyzed by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels, and total amounts of PTH and ProPTH (previously formed and newly synthesized) were determined by immunoassay. Ninety percent of total immunoreactive, 70--80% of newly synthesized PTH, ProPTH, and PreProPTH, and 50% of PSP were found in sedimentable particulate fractions. The low speed (800 X g) pellet, which consisted predominantly of cell debris and nuclei with adherent remnants of cytoplasm, contained 30--50% of the ProPTH and PTH. The intermediate speed (10,000 X g) pellet, which contained granules, was relatively enriched in PTH. Most particulate-associated hormone could be solubilized by treatment with deoxycholate (DOC) 98% and 97% of radiolabeled and 93% and 83% of immunoreactive ProPTH and PTH, respectively, in particulates sedimenting at 10,000 and 105,000 X g were rendered DOC-soluble. Approximately 50% of the PTH and ProPTH in the particulates resisted digestion by combined trypsin and chymotrypsin, whereas PreProPTH was completely susceptible to proteolysis. Up to 50% of the radiolabeled PTH and ProPTH added exogenously to parathyroid gland slices before homogenization became associated with the particulate fractions, and 70--80% or radiolabeled PreProPTH added to the subcellular fractions readily associated with the sedimentable material. The results indicate that in homogenates of parathyroid glands, PTH, ProPTH, PreProPTH, and PSP are associated with particulate structures. Furthermore, up to 50% of the association of ProPTH, PTH, and PSP with particulate fractions seems to be nonsepcific and occurs during the disruption of the tissues. The remaining 50% or more of hormonal protein is presumably sequestered within membrane-limited structures, such as microsomal vesicles. The complete susceptibility in particulate fractions of newly synthesized PreProPTH, but not of ProPTH, to limited proteolysis indicates that the two precursors are located in different subcellular compartments and suggests that PreProPTH is converted to ProPTH before its entry into the intracisternal space of the endoplasmic reticulum. Alternatively, the PreProPTH identified in parathyroid gland slices may represent polypeptide chains synthesized in the cell sol on polyribosomes that are not attached to endoplasmic reticulum but are adsorbed nonspecifically to the particulate fraction of the cell during the process of tissue homogenization.", "contents": "Subcellular distributions of parathyroid hormone, hormonal precursors, and parathyroid secretory protein. Distributions of parathyroid hormone (PTH), proparathyroid hormone (ProPTH), preproparathyroid hormone (PreProPTH), and parathyroid secretory protein (PSP) were analyzed in subcellular fractions prepared from homogenates of bovine parathyroid glands. Slices of bovine parathyroid glands were incubated with radiolabeled amino acids for 3--30 min to selectively label newly synthesized proteins. Subcellular fractions were prepared from homogenates of the gland slices by differential centrifugation. Newly synthesized labeled hormonal polypeptides in the fractions were analyzed by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels, and total amounts of PTH and ProPTH (previously formed and newly synthesized) were determined by immunoassay. Ninety percent of total immunoreactive, 70--80% of newly synthesized PTH, ProPTH, and PreProPTH, and 50% of PSP were found in sedimentable particulate fractions. The low speed (800 X g) pellet, which consisted predominantly of cell debris and nuclei with adherent remnants of cytoplasm, contained 30--50% of the ProPTH and PTH. The intermediate speed (10,000 X g) pellet, which contained granules, was relatively enriched in PTH. Most particulate-associated hormone could be solubilized by treatment with deoxycholate (DOC) 98% and 97% of radiolabeled and 93% and 83% of immunoreactive ProPTH and PTH, respectively, in particulates sedimenting at 10,000 and 105,000 X g were rendered DOC-soluble. Approximately 50% of the PTH and ProPTH in the particulates resisted digestion by combined trypsin and chymotrypsin, whereas PreProPTH was completely susceptible to proteolysis. Up to 50% of the radiolabeled PTH and ProPTH added exogenously to parathyroid gland slices before homogenization became associated with the particulate fractions, and 70--80% or radiolabeled PreProPTH added to the subcellular fractions readily associated with the sedimentable material. The results indicate that in homogenates of parathyroid glands, PTH, ProPTH, PreProPTH, and PSP are associated with particulate structures. Furthermore, up to 50% of the association of ProPTH, PTH, and PSP with particulate fractions seems to be nonsepcific and occurs during the disruption of the tissues. The remaining 50% or more of hormonal protein is presumably sequestered within membrane-limited structures, such as microsomal vesicles. The complete susceptibility in particulate fractions of newly synthesized PreProPTH, but not of ProPTH, to limited proteolysis indicates that the two precursors are located in different subcellular compartments and suggests that PreProPTH is converted to ProPTH before its entry into the intracisternal space of the endoplasmic reticulum. Alternatively, the PreProPTH identified in parathyroid gland slices may represent polypeptide chains synthesized in the cell sol on polyribosomes that are not attached to endoplasmic reticulum but are adsorbed nonspecifically to the particulate fraction of the cell during the process of tissue homogenization.", "PMID": 446353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7527", "title": "Comparative studies of receptor binding and steroidogenic properties of angiotensins in the rat adrenal glomerulosa.", "content": "Angiotensin and analogs were tested in isolated rat adrenal zona glomerulosa cells to find if there was a correlation between receptor affinity and steroidogenic potency. Comparative receptor-binding affinities and corresponding aldosterone-releasing effects obtained for each analog were: [Asp1, Ile5]angiotensin II, 1.0 and 1.0: [Asp1, Val5]angiotensin II, 0.69 and 1.65; [Asn1, Val5]angiotensin II, 1.18 and 0.68; [Sar1]angiotensin II, 2.07 and 1.7; [Me2Gly1]angiotensin II, 0.63 and 0.72; [Ile5]angiotensin III, 0.72 and 0.59; [Val5]angiotensin III, 0.92 and 0.34; [Ile5]angiotensin I, 0.007 and 0.051; des-Asp1-[Ile5]-angiotensin I, 0.004 and 0.03; and [Val5, Ser9]angiotensin I, 0.03 and 0.098. Taken as a group, these agonist analogs demonstrated good correlations between these two variables (r = 0.76; P less than 0.001). There was parallelism between binding inhibition and aldosterone-releasing effect when position 5 was substituted with isoleucine, regardless of the substituent in position 1 of the angiotensins. This parallelism was lost when analogs of angiotensin II or III contained valine in position 5. In addition, angiotensin III was found to be less potent than angiotensin II, regardless of the substituent in position 5 (valine or isoleucine).", "contents": "Comparative studies of receptor binding and steroidogenic properties of angiotensins in the rat adrenal glomerulosa. Angiotensin and analogs were tested in isolated rat adrenal zona glomerulosa cells to find if there was a correlation between receptor affinity and steroidogenic potency. Comparative receptor-binding affinities and corresponding aldosterone-releasing effects obtained for each analog were: [Asp1, Ile5]angiotensin II, 1.0 and 1.0: [Asp1, Val5]angiotensin II, 0.69 and 1.65; [Asn1, Val5]angiotensin II, 1.18 and 0.68; [Sar1]angiotensin II, 2.07 and 1.7; [Me2Gly1]angiotensin II, 0.63 and 0.72; [Ile5]angiotensin III, 0.72 and 0.59; [Val5]angiotensin III, 0.92 and 0.34; [Ile5]angiotensin I, 0.007 and 0.051; des-Asp1-[Ile5]-angiotensin I, 0.004 and 0.03; and [Val5, Ser9]angiotensin I, 0.03 and 0.098. Taken as a group, these agonist analogs demonstrated good correlations between these two variables (r = 0.76; P less than 0.001). There was parallelism between binding inhibition and aldosterone-releasing effect when position 5 was substituted with isoleucine, regardless of the substituent in position 1 of the angiotensins. This parallelism was lost when analogs of angiotensin II or III contained valine in position 5. In addition, angiotensin III was found to be less potent than angiotensin II, regardless of the substituent in position 5 (valine or isoleucine).", "PMID": 446357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7528", "title": "Evidence for the autoregulation of hormone secretion by prolactin.", "content": "The cells from the 2B8 clonal strain of pituitary cells which previously have been reported to produce only PRL were incubated with varying amounts of ovine PRL (oPRL) ranging from 0.01--1000 ng/ml. After 1 h, significantly less PRL was measured in culture media from cells incubated with all doses of oPRL employed. This inhibition was dose related. The cells were rinsed five times with Hank's balanced salt solution and subsequently placed into PRL-free media for an additional hour. Hypersecretion of hormone occurred from those cells previously exposed to 1--1000 ng/ml oPRL. The PRL in the media from cells previously exposed to 0.01--0.1 ng/ml was similar to that in the control culture. In some experiments, the cellular concentration of PRL was determined at the end of each of the two 1-h incubation periods. After the initial exposure to oPRL, an increase in intracellular hormone was observed only in those groups incubated with 1--1000 ng/ml oPRL. In contrast, after the cells were rinsed and placed into PRL-free medium, the cellular concentration of PRL was unchanged in all groups except the group previously exposed to 100 ng/ml oPRL. These data indicate that PRL can inhibit its own secretion through direct action on the lactotrophs of the anterior pituitary gland.", "contents": "Evidence for the autoregulation of hormone secretion by prolactin. The cells from the 2B8 clonal strain of pituitary cells which previously have been reported to produce only PRL were incubated with varying amounts of ovine PRL (oPRL) ranging from 0.01--1000 ng/ml. After 1 h, significantly less PRL was measured in culture media from cells incubated with all doses of oPRL employed. This inhibition was dose related. The cells were rinsed five times with Hank's balanced salt solution and subsequently placed into PRL-free media for an additional hour. Hypersecretion of hormone occurred from those cells previously exposed to 1--1000 ng/ml oPRL. The PRL in the media from cells previously exposed to 0.01--0.1 ng/ml was similar to that in the control culture. In some experiments, the cellular concentration of PRL was determined at the end of each of the two 1-h incubation periods. After the initial exposure to oPRL, an increase in intracellular hormone was observed only in those groups incubated with 1--1000 ng/ml oPRL. In contrast, after the cells were rinsed and placed into PRL-free medium, the cellular concentration of PRL was unchanged in all groups except the group previously exposed to 100 ng/ml oPRL. These data indicate that PRL can inhibit its own secretion through direct action on the lactotrophs of the anterior pituitary gland.", "PMID": 446360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7529", "title": "Regional differences in response to electrical stimulation within the medial preoptic-suprachiasmatic region on blood luteinizing hormone levels in ovariectomized and ovariectomized, estrogen-primed rats.", "content": "The effect of electrical stimulation of the medial preoptic-suprachiasmatic nucleus (MPOA-SCN) region of the forebrain on blood LH levels was studied in ovariectomized, pentobarbital-anesthetized rats. Animals were either not primed with estrogen or previously given 5 micrograms estradiol benzoate (EB)/100 g BW . day for the 2 days before stimulation. Rats were bled continuously (30, 40, or 50 microliter whole blood/5--6 min) through indwelling right atrial cannulae for 1.5 h before stimulation, 1.5 h during stimulation, and up to 1 h afterwards. Whole blood was analyzed for LH by RIA. In ovariectomized, unprimed rats, electrical stimulation of the ventral MPOA consistently increased LH release. In contrast, stimulation of the peri-SCN region (immediately caudal to the MPOA, and lateral and dorsal to, but not within, the SCN), uniformly inhibited pulsatile LH secretion. Activation of the SCN elevated blood LH levels in most unprimed rats tested, but suppression of episodic LH release occasionally occurred. Pretreatment with estrogen resulted in increased LH secretion in response to stimulation of each of these three regions. Estrogen prolonged the LH increase occurring during MPOA stimulation, completely reversed the inhibitory LH response to peri-SCN stimulation, and either reversed any possible inhibitory response to SCN stimulation or greatly increased the magnitude and duration of the increase in blood LH levels produced in the unprimed rat during activation of this nucleus. In summary, the present study indicates that well defined areas in the MPOA-SCN region can have strikingly different effects on LH secretion in the absence of ovarian estrogen and that this steroid is critically important in determining the direction, magnitude, and duration of the LH response to a localized brain stimulus.", "contents": "Regional differences in response to electrical stimulation within the medial preoptic-suprachiasmatic region on blood luteinizing hormone levels in ovariectomized and ovariectomized, estrogen-primed rats. The effect of electrical stimulation of the medial preoptic-suprachiasmatic nucleus (MPOA-SCN) region of the forebrain on blood LH levels was studied in ovariectomized, pentobarbital-anesthetized rats. Animals were either not primed with estrogen or previously given 5 micrograms estradiol benzoate (EB)/100 g BW . day for the 2 days before stimulation. Rats were bled continuously (30, 40, or 50 microliter whole blood/5--6 min) through indwelling right atrial cannulae for 1.5 h before stimulation, 1.5 h during stimulation, and up to 1 h afterwards. Whole blood was analyzed for LH by RIA. In ovariectomized, unprimed rats, electrical stimulation of the ventral MPOA consistently increased LH release. In contrast, stimulation of the peri-SCN region (immediately caudal to the MPOA, and lateral and dorsal to, but not within, the SCN), uniformly inhibited pulsatile LH secretion. Activation of the SCN elevated blood LH levels in most unprimed rats tested, but suppression of episodic LH release occasionally occurred. Pretreatment with estrogen resulted in increased LH secretion in response to stimulation of each of these three regions. Estrogen prolonged the LH increase occurring during MPOA stimulation, completely reversed the inhibitory LH response to peri-SCN stimulation, and either reversed any possible inhibitory response to SCN stimulation or greatly increased the magnitude and duration of the increase in blood LH levels produced in the unprimed rat during activation of this nucleus. In summary, the present study indicates that well defined areas in the MPOA-SCN region can have strikingly different effects on LH secretion in the absence of ovarian estrogen and that this steroid is critically important in determining the direction, magnitude, and duration of the LH response to a localized brain stimulus.", "PMID": 446364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7530", "title": "A human chorionic gonadotropin-specific antiserum against synthetic peptide analogs to the carboxyl-terminal peptide of its beta-subunit.", "content": "A chemically synthesized Na-acetyl-triacontapeptide analogous to the carboxyl-terminal region (residues 116--145) of hCG beta-subunit was conjugated to bovine thyroglobulin. This synthetic antigen was used to immunize five rabbits; one of these rabbits (H-114) generated a useable antiserum. The binding properties of this antiserum were compared extensively to a well characterized antiserum (H-93) against the natural tricosaglycopeptide (residues 123--145) of desialylated hCG beta-subunit conjugated to bovine serum albumin. The two antisera showed nearly identical immunological specificities and sensitivities when examined in a conventional RIA system. These similarities included: 1) antibody recognition sites residing at the carboxyl-terminal pentadecapeptide region; 2) binding neither [125I]iodo-hLH nor [125I]iodo-oLH; and 3) lack of neutralizing capability against the biological activity of hCG in vivo. However, synthetic pentadeca or longer peptides are twice as potent in inhibiting 125I]iodo-hCG binding to H-114 than to H-93. Synthetic peptides may provide a superior means of generating antisera capable of distinguishing hCG from human LH, since they can be obtained more easily in large quantities than analogous purified natural fragments and because peptides of synthetic origin avoid the risk of contamination from strongly antigenic regions of the native molecules. Such hCG-specific antisera may have extensive application in RIA systems and fertility control, where selective binding to hCG but not human LH is desired.", "contents": "A human chorionic gonadotropin-specific antiserum against synthetic peptide analogs to the carboxyl-terminal peptide of its beta-subunit. A chemically synthesized Na-acetyl-triacontapeptide analogous to the carboxyl-terminal region (residues 116--145) of hCG beta-subunit was conjugated to bovine thyroglobulin. This synthetic antigen was used to immunize five rabbits; one of these rabbits (H-114) generated a useable antiserum. The binding properties of this antiserum were compared extensively to a well characterized antiserum (H-93) against the natural tricosaglycopeptide (residues 123--145) of desialylated hCG beta-subunit conjugated to bovine serum albumin. The two antisera showed nearly identical immunological specificities and sensitivities when examined in a conventional RIA system. These similarities included: 1) antibody recognition sites residing at the carboxyl-terminal pentadecapeptide region; 2) binding neither [125I]iodo-hLH nor [125I]iodo-oLH; and 3) lack of neutralizing capability against the biological activity of hCG in vivo. However, synthetic pentadeca or longer peptides are twice as potent in inhibiting 125I]iodo-hCG binding to H-114 than to H-93. Synthetic peptides may provide a superior means of generating antisera capable of distinguishing hCG from human LH, since they can be obtained more easily in large quantities than analogous purified natural fragments and because peptides of synthetic origin avoid the risk of contamination from strongly antigenic regions of the native molecules. Such hCG-specific antisera may have extensive application in RIA systems and fertility control, where selective binding to hCG but not human LH is desired.", "PMID": 446368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7531", "title": "Blockade of steroid-induced leuteinizing hormone release by selective depletion of anterior hypothalamic norepinephrine activity.", "content": "Female Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 200--225 g, were ovariectomized and, 10 days later, were given a single sc injection of 10 micrograms estradiol benzoate/100 g BW. Three days after estradiol benzoate treatment, animals received 50 micrograms progesterone (P)/100 g BW, resulting in a surge in LH release 7 and 9 h later. To determine the locus of the noradrenergic component of the P-induced LH surge, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OH-DA), a neutrotoxin, was implanted into either the suprachiasmatic region or the median eminence (ME) 24 h before P administration. An implant of 6-OH-DA in the suprachiasmatic region decreased anterior hypothalamic norepinephrine concentration by 83%, anterior hypothalamic dopamine concentration by 24%, and eliminated the P-induced LH surge. ME implant of 6-OH-DA decreased norepinephrine concentration by 57% without affecting dopamine concentration, but was unable to alter the P. induced LH surge. These results indicate that the anterior hypothalamic noradrenergic system is necessary for the P-induced LH surge in ovariectomized rats and that noradrenergic nerve terminals in the ME are not involved in this process.", "contents": "Blockade of steroid-induced leuteinizing hormone release by selective depletion of anterior hypothalamic norepinephrine activity. Female Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 200--225 g, were ovariectomized and, 10 days later, were given a single sc injection of 10 micrograms estradiol benzoate/100 g BW. Three days after estradiol benzoate treatment, animals received 50 micrograms progesterone (P)/100 g BW, resulting in a surge in LH release 7 and 9 h later. To determine the locus of the noradrenergic component of the P-induced LH surge, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OH-DA), a neutrotoxin, was implanted into either the suprachiasmatic region or the median eminence (ME) 24 h before P administration. An implant of 6-OH-DA in the suprachiasmatic region decreased anterior hypothalamic norepinephrine concentration by 83%, anterior hypothalamic dopamine concentration by 24%, and eliminated the P-induced LH surge. ME implant of 6-OH-DA decreased norepinephrine concentration by 57% without affecting dopamine concentration, but was unable to alter the P. induced LH surge. These results indicate that the anterior hypothalamic noradrenergic system is necessary for the P-induced LH surge in ovariectomized rats and that noradrenergic nerve terminals in the ME are not involved in this process.", "PMID": 446372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7532", "title": "Further characterization of growth hormone-dependent somatomedin-binding proteins in rat serum and demonstration of somatomedin-binding proteins produced by rat liver cells in culture.", "content": "The somatomedin-like peptide multiplication-stimulating activity (MSA) binds specifically to rat serum. The pattern of MSA binding is GH dependent. Specific binding of [125I]iodo-MSA in normal rat serum is primarily in the gamma-globulin region (peak II) on Sephadex G-200, while MSA binding in hypophysectomized (hypox) rat serum is near the albumin region (peak III). This study further characterizes the peak II and peak III somatomedin-binding proteins produced by rat liver cells in culture. [125I]Iodo-MSA binding to normal rat serum is abolished by trypsin pretreatment of rat serum, suggesting that MSA binds to protein components of serum. The only detectable somatomedin activity (measured by [3H]thymidine incorporation into chick embryo fibroblast DNA) in fractions of normal rat serum chromatographed on Sephadex G-200 coincides with peak II binding of [125I]iodo-MSA. In hypox rat serum, the majority of detectable somatomedin activity is in the peak III region. There is complete displacement of the human somatomedins [125I]iodoinsulin-like growth factor I and II and [125I]iodosomatomedin A from the rat serum-binding sites by unlabeled MSA, suggesting that the human somatomedins bind to the same sites as MSA. Treatment of normal rat serum with 1 M acetic acid dissociates somatomedin activity from its binding proteins and converts somatomedin-binding proteins from peak II to peak III. Scatchard analysis of competitive binding data using [125I]iodo-MSA yields a binding affinity that is not appreciably different for either normal or hypox rat sera. The binding capacity of normal or acid-treated normal rat serum for MSA is significantly greater than that for comparably treated hypox rat sera. Although the site of synthesis of somatomedin-binding proteins in vivo is unknown, specific somatomedin-binding proteins are synthesized by two rat liver cell lines in culture. These rat liver cell somatomedin-binding proteins have the same molecular size and the same binding affinity for MSA as the peak III somatomedin-binding protein(s) in rat serum.", "contents": "Further characterization of growth hormone-dependent somatomedin-binding proteins in rat serum and demonstration of somatomedin-binding proteins produced by rat liver cells in culture. The somatomedin-like peptide multiplication-stimulating activity (MSA) binds specifically to rat serum. The pattern of MSA binding is GH dependent. Specific binding of [125I]iodo-MSA in normal rat serum is primarily in the gamma-globulin region (peak II) on Sephadex G-200, while MSA binding in hypophysectomized (hypox) rat serum is near the albumin region (peak III). This study further characterizes the peak II and peak III somatomedin-binding proteins produced by rat liver cells in culture. [125I]Iodo-MSA binding to normal rat serum is abolished by trypsin pretreatment of rat serum, suggesting that MSA binds to protein components of serum. The only detectable somatomedin activity (measured by [3H]thymidine incorporation into chick embryo fibroblast DNA) in fractions of normal rat serum chromatographed on Sephadex G-200 coincides with peak II binding of [125I]iodo-MSA. In hypox rat serum, the majority of detectable somatomedin activity is in the peak III region. There is complete displacement of the human somatomedins [125I]iodoinsulin-like growth factor I and II and [125I]iodosomatomedin A from the rat serum-binding sites by unlabeled MSA, suggesting that the human somatomedins bind to the same sites as MSA. Treatment of normal rat serum with 1 M acetic acid dissociates somatomedin activity from its binding proteins and converts somatomedin-binding proteins from peak II to peak III. Scatchard analysis of competitive binding data using [125I]iodo-MSA yields a binding affinity that is not appreciably different for either normal or hypox rat sera. The binding capacity of normal or acid-treated normal rat serum for MSA is significantly greater than that for comparably treated hypox rat sera. Although the site of synthesis of somatomedin-binding proteins in vivo is unknown, specific somatomedin-binding proteins are synthesized by two rat liver cell lines in culture. These rat liver cell somatomedin-binding proteins have the same molecular size and the same binding affinity for MSA as the peak III somatomedin-binding protein(s) in rat serum.", "PMID": 446374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7533", "title": "Metabolism of sex steroids in the human and canine vas deferens.", "content": "The contribution of the vas deferens to the metabolism of steroids was investigated in the human and in the dog by perfusion experiments and in vitro incubation. Perfusion of testosterone or androstenedione through the canine vas deferens resulted in the formation of dihydrotestosterone; no significant formation of estrogens could be detected. When dihydrotestosterone was perfused, 3alpha- and 3beta-androstanediols were isolated. In vitro incubation experiments with human was deferencs have shown an active metabolism of androgens by this time and, therefore, confer a new role to the vas deferens in the male.", "contents": "Metabolism of sex steroids in the human and canine vas deferens. The contribution of the vas deferens to the metabolism of steroids was investigated in the human and in the dog by perfusion experiments and in vitro incubation. Perfusion of testosterone or androstenedione through the canine vas deferens resulted in the formation of dihydrotestosterone; no significant formation of estrogens could be detected. When dihydrotestosterone was perfused, 3alpha- and 3beta-androstanediols were isolated. In vitro incubation experiments with human was deferencs have shown an active metabolism of androgens by this time and, therefore, confer a new role to the vas deferens in the male.", "PMID": 446375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7534", "title": "Characterization of the androgen receptor in nuclei of seminiferous tubules of the mature male rat based upon radioimmunoassay of endogenous levels of bound testosterone.", "content": "A macromolecular testosterone complex which was salt-extracted from nuclei isolated from seminiferous tubules of the adult male rat was investigated by quantifying the testosterone directly by RIA. The steroid-binding capacity of the complex was destroyed by heating at both 12 and 50 C, suggesting the presence of an extremely thermolabile complex. This tubular complex was shown to be similar to the radioactively labeled androgen receptor isolated from ventral prostatic nuclei by their coelution during adsorption chromatography, by their coleution during ion exchange chromatography, their similar migration rate (4-4.46S) on both sucrose and glycerol density gradients, and their similar slow dissociation at 0 C. These observations indicate that the tubular complex contains a high affinity androgen receptor and suggest that the direct measurement of testosterone in this complex by RIA may be useful in identifying its cellular distribution.", "contents": "Characterization of the androgen receptor in nuclei of seminiferous tubules of the mature male rat based upon radioimmunoassay of endogenous levels of bound testosterone. A macromolecular testosterone complex which was salt-extracted from nuclei isolated from seminiferous tubules of the adult male rat was investigated by quantifying the testosterone directly by RIA. The steroid-binding capacity of the complex was destroyed by heating at both 12 and 50 C, suggesting the presence of an extremely thermolabile complex. This tubular complex was shown to be similar to the radioactively labeled androgen receptor isolated from ventral prostatic nuclei by their coelution during adsorption chromatography, by their coleution during ion exchange chromatography, their similar migration rate (4-4.46S) on both sucrose and glycerol density gradients, and their similar slow dissociation at 0 C. These observations indicate that the tubular complex contains a high affinity androgen receptor and suggest that the direct measurement of testosterone in this complex by RIA may be useful in identifying its cellular distribution.", "PMID": 446378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7535", "title": "Production of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and formation of medullary bone in the egg-laying hen.", "content": "Renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1-hydroxylase, the percentage of medullary bone in the femur, plasma calcium, and plasma phosphorus were measured in female chickens reaching maturity. These parameters and plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels were also measured during the daily egg-laying cycle in mature hens. The renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-l-hydroxylase becomes elevated in maturing hens before and at the time of ovulation. This elevation in the 1-hydroxylase correlates with the elevation in total plasma calcium concentration but lags and at the time of ovulation and is followed by a further elevation of plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels. The plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level remains high until 12 h postovulation. At this time, it falls to the preovulation level. No relationship could be found between the plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels and the changes in medullary bone found during the egg-laying cycle. However, plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels are highest immediately before and during the egg shell calcification phase of the egg-laying cycle.", "contents": "Production of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and formation of medullary bone in the egg-laying hen. Renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1-hydroxylase, the percentage of medullary bone in the femur, plasma calcium, and plasma phosphorus were measured in female chickens reaching maturity. These parameters and plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels were also measured during the daily egg-laying cycle in mature hens. The renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-l-hydroxylase becomes elevated in maturing hens before and at the time of ovulation. This elevation in the 1-hydroxylase correlates with the elevation in total plasma calcium concentration but lags and at the time of ovulation and is followed by a further elevation of plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels. The plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level remains high until 12 h postovulation. At this time, it falls to the preovulation level. No relationship could be found between the plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels and the changes in medullary bone found during the egg-laying cycle. However, plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels are highest immediately before and during the egg shell calcification phase of the egg-laying cycle.", "PMID": 446379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7536", "title": "Hypercalcitoninemia associated with return of serum calcium concentration toward normal in chronically parathyroidectomized rats.", "content": "In chronically parathyroidectomized male Fischer and Holtzman rats, we found a progressive rise in the levels of serum immunoreactive calcitonin (CT) despite hypocalcemia. The rise was preceded by an increase in the thyroidal CT concentration (determined by RIA) and hyperplasia of C cells (determined by the immunoperoxidase bridge technique). In association with the rise in serum CT, we also observed a return of serum Ca toward normal levels, which the evidence suggests was not due to compensatory regeneration of parathyroid remnants after incomplete parathyroidectomy. It also is unlikely that ectopic parathyroid tissue was responsible for the return of serum Ca toward normal. Since the increase in serum CT after parathyroidectomy coincided with the return of serum Ca toward normal, we postulate that a gradual rise in serum Ca in chronically parathyroidectomized rats might stimulate the \"CT-saturated\" thyroid glands to release CT, thus leading to a progressive increase in serum CT. Alternatively, it is possible that the increase in serum CT after parathyroidectomy may be due in part simply to nonspecific leakage of CT from the \"CT-saturated\" thyroid glands.", "contents": "Hypercalcitoninemia associated with return of serum calcium concentration toward normal in chronically parathyroidectomized rats. In chronically parathyroidectomized male Fischer and Holtzman rats, we found a progressive rise in the levels of serum immunoreactive calcitonin (CT) despite hypocalcemia. The rise was preceded by an increase in the thyroidal CT concentration (determined by RIA) and hyperplasia of C cells (determined by the immunoperoxidase bridge technique). In association with the rise in serum CT, we also observed a return of serum Ca toward normal levels, which the evidence suggests was not due to compensatory regeneration of parathyroid remnants after incomplete parathyroidectomy. It also is unlikely that ectopic parathyroid tissue was responsible for the return of serum Ca toward normal. Since the increase in serum CT after parathyroidectomy coincided with the return of serum Ca toward normal, we postulate that a gradual rise in serum Ca in chronically parathyroidectomized rats might stimulate the \"CT-saturated\" thyroid glands to release CT, thus leading to a progressive increase in serum CT. Alternatively, it is possible that the increase in serum CT after parathyroidectomy may be due in part simply to nonspecific leakage of CT from the \"CT-saturated\" thyroid glands.", "PMID": 446383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7537", "title": "The importance of proteolysis as the initial step of insulin degradation in rat liver homogenates.", "content": "It was previously proposed (Varandani, P. T., Proc Natl Acad Sci 69:1681, 1972) that insulin is first degraded by rat liver homogenates in an enzyme-catalyzed reductive process by microsomal glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase before being proteolytically cleaved by the cytosolic enzyme activity designated insulin protease. This study was, however, carried out with concentrations of the hormone 10,000 times the maximal concentration seen in peripheral blood. In the present study, physiological levels of insulin (approximately 0.1 nM) and concentrations of reduced and oxidized glutathione approximating the reductive potentials of normal liver were used. Rates of degradation by separable particulate and soluble components of the homogenate were determined by following enzymatic conversion of [125I]-iodoinsulin to the trichloroacetic acid-solube form. Assessment of the mode of degradation was determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50 in the presence of 1 M acetic acid-6M urea. From these studies it was seen that 1) insulin is reduced at a very significant rate nonenzymatically; 2) during short periods of incubation (30 sec) where no significant hormone is reduced nonenzymatically, the rate of cleavage by the insulin protease present in the cytosol is extremely high and the microsomal GIT activity is negligible; and 3) insulin destruction noted in isolated liver cells and perfused liver is most probably due to the insulin protease activity of the cytosol.", "contents": "The importance of proteolysis as the initial step of insulin degradation in rat liver homogenates. It was previously proposed (Varandani, P. T., Proc Natl Acad Sci 69:1681, 1972) that insulin is first degraded by rat liver homogenates in an enzyme-catalyzed reductive process by microsomal glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase before being proteolytically cleaved by the cytosolic enzyme activity designated insulin protease. This study was, however, carried out with concentrations of the hormone 10,000 times the maximal concentration seen in peripheral blood. In the present study, physiological levels of insulin (approximately 0.1 nM) and concentrations of reduced and oxidized glutathione approximating the reductive potentials of normal liver were used. Rates of degradation by separable particulate and soluble components of the homogenate were determined by following enzymatic conversion of [125I]-iodoinsulin to the trichloroacetic acid-solube form. Assessment of the mode of degradation was determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50 in the presence of 1 M acetic acid-6M urea. From these studies it was seen that 1) insulin is reduced at a very significant rate nonenzymatically; 2) during short periods of incubation (30 sec) where no significant hormone is reduced nonenzymatically, the rate of cleavage by the insulin protease present in the cytosol is extremely high and the microsomal GIT activity is negligible; and 3) insulin destruction noted in isolated liver cells and perfused liver is most probably due to the insulin protease activity of the cytosol.", "PMID": 446384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7538", "title": "Pituitary-brain transport of neurotensin: functional significance of retrograde transport.", "content": "The ability of the peptide neurotensin (NT) to affect central nervous system function after pituitary-brain transport was examined in adult male rats. Animals were anesthetized and maintained under ether and their pituitaries were exposed by the pharyngeal route. They were then given NT or physiological saline solution by various routes of administration, and colonic temperature (CT) was monitored over a 2-h period. Animals given intracerebroventricular injections of 10 micro g NT showed significantly lower colonic temperatures over the 2-h-measurement period compared to rats injected intraventricularly with the solvent vehicle (0.15 M NaCl). Intrapituitary injection of 10 or 50 micro g NT also markedly decreased CT in a dose-related manner compared to rats given similar injections of the solvent vehicle. Section of the pituitary stalk 24 h before injection of 50 micro g NT into the pituitary totally abolished the hypothermic effect of the peptide. NT in a dose of 50 micro g did not significantly modify CT when injected either iv or into the space between the pituitary and the dura compared to animals given the solvent vehicle. The results suggest that peptides may undergo retrograde transport from the pituitary to appropriate sites in the central nervous system and retain their ability to affect brain function.", "contents": "Pituitary-brain transport of neurotensin: functional significance of retrograde transport. The ability of the peptide neurotensin (NT) to affect central nervous system function after pituitary-brain transport was examined in adult male rats. Animals were anesthetized and maintained under ether and their pituitaries were exposed by the pharyngeal route. They were then given NT or physiological saline solution by various routes of administration, and colonic temperature (CT) was monitored over a 2-h period. Animals given intracerebroventricular injections of 10 micro g NT showed significantly lower colonic temperatures over the 2-h-measurement period compared to rats injected intraventricularly with the solvent vehicle (0.15 M NaCl). Intrapituitary injection of 10 or 50 micro g NT also markedly decreased CT in a dose-related manner compared to rats given similar injections of the solvent vehicle. Section of the pituitary stalk 24 h before injection of 50 micro g NT into the pituitary totally abolished the hypothermic effect of the peptide. NT in a dose of 50 micro g did not significantly modify CT when injected either iv or into the space between the pituitary and the dura compared to animals given the solvent vehicle. The results suggest that peptides may undergo retrograde transport from the pituitary to appropriate sites in the central nervous system and retain their ability to affect brain function.", "PMID": 446387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7539", "title": "Evidence for a role of splanchnic somatostatin in the homeostasis of ingested nutrients.", "content": "Somatostatin was infused via the portal vein at a rate of 50 ng/min in a group of eight conscious dogs beginning 30 min before and continuing for 6 h after the ingestion of an 800-g fat-protein meal. The fasting and postprandial levels of plasma somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI), insulin, glucagon, and triglycerides were compared with those during an intraportal infusion of saline as a control. In both groups, SLI rose significantly within 15 min of the ingestion of the meal, but during somatostatin infusion, mean peripheral vein levels of SLI ranged from 30-85 pg/ml above those of the saline control experiments. The postprandial rise in plasma triglycerides was reduced significantly below the control values at all points between 75-270 min, and this reduction was the result of lowered chylomicron levels. Neither fasting nor postprandial insulin or glucagon levels were significantly reduced by the somatostatin infusion. Intraportally infused somatostain also reduced portal vein xylose levels after an intragastric xylose load. The results are compatible with, but do not prove, a physiological role for somatostatin in the homeostasis of ingested nutrients.", "contents": "Evidence for a role of splanchnic somatostatin in the homeostasis of ingested nutrients. Somatostatin was infused via the portal vein at a rate of 50 ng/min in a group of eight conscious dogs beginning 30 min before and continuing for 6 h after the ingestion of an 800-g fat-protein meal. The fasting and postprandial levels of plasma somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI), insulin, glucagon, and triglycerides were compared with those during an intraportal infusion of saline as a control. In both groups, SLI rose significantly within 15 min of the ingestion of the meal, but during somatostatin infusion, mean peripheral vein levels of SLI ranged from 30-85 pg/ml above those of the saline control experiments. The postprandial rise in plasma triglycerides was reduced significantly below the control values at all points between 75-270 min, and this reduction was the result of lowered chylomicron levels. Neither fasting nor postprandial insulin or glucagon levels were significantly reduced by the somatostatin infusion. Intraportally infused somatostain also reduced portal vein xylose levels after an intragastric xylose load. The results are compatible with, but do not prove, a physiological role for somatostatin in the homeostasis of ingested nutrients.", "PMID": 446390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7540", "title": "Somatostatin: central nervous system actions on glucoregulation.", "content": "Somatostatin (SRIF) has been tested for its actions on the central nervous system to affect glucoregulation. In doses ineffective when given systemically , SRIF and SRIF analogs given intracisternally (ic) reduce hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia after ic bombesin administration. The SRIF analog, des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp8]SRIF, decreases plasma insulin and elevates plasma glucose and glucagon when given systemically. However, when given ic, this peptide prevents the rise in glucose and glucagon after ic bombesin administration and is 10 times more potent than SRIF in reducing bombesin-induced hyperglycemia. Other analogs of SRIF and various unrelated peptides were found to be ineffective in reducing bombesin-induced hyperglycemia. des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp]SRIF prevented the hyperglycemia induced by surgical stress or by ic administration of beta-endorphin or carbacol. des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp]SRIF given ic did not prevent hyperglycemia induced by systemic administration of epinephrine, arginine, or glucagon. These studies suggest that SRIF and its analogs may act within the brain to affect glucoregulation.", "contents": "Somatostatin: central nervous system actions on glucoregulation. Somatostatin (SRIF) has been tested for its actions on the central nervous system to affect glucoregulation. In doses ineffective when given systemically , SRIF and SRIF analogs given intracisternally (ic) reduce hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia after ic bombesin administration. The SRIF analog, des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp8]SRIF, decreases plasma insulin and elevates plasma glucose and glucagon when given systemically. However, when given ic, this peptide prevents the rise in glucose and glucagon after ic bombesin administration and is 10 times more potent than SRIF in reducing bombesin-induced hyperglycemia. Other analogs of SRIF and various unrelated peptides were found to be ineffective in reducing bombesin-induced hyperglycemia. des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp]SRIF prevented the hyperglycemia induced by surgical stress or by ic administration of beta-endorphin or carbacol. des-AA1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13-[D-Trp]SRIF given ic did not prevent hyperglycemia induced by systemic administration of epinephrine, arginine, or glucagon. These studies suggest that SRIF and its analogs may act within the brain to affect glucoregulation.", "PMID": 446391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7541", "title": "Hypercalcemic effect of insulin in the chick.", "content": "There are conflicting reports on the effect of insulin on plasma Ca concentration in rats. Low doses appear to decrease and higher doses to increase plasma Ca. Since birds are known to be very sensitive to parathyroid hormone and have resistance to the hypoglycemic effects of insulin, the effect of commercial and highly purified insulin on plasma Ca concentration was studied in 10-day-old chicks 60 min after the administration of the hormone. Both commerical bovine and purified porcine insulin provoked a dose-related elevation of plasma Ca. Although hypophosphatemia was observed with the highest dose of insulin used (0.4U), hypercalcemia was observed with 0.05 U insulin, a dose that did not modify plasma phosphate concentration. The slopes of the dose-response curves of insulin and parathyroid hormone were indistinguishable and different from that of 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3. Neither propranolol nor deprivation of vitamin D altered the hypercalcemic response to insulin. Unexpectedly, propranolol (40 microgram/chick) provoked elevation of plasma Ca. It is concluded that insulin raises plasma Ca concentration in the chick by a mechanism(s) not yet elucidated.", "contents": "Hypercalcemic effect of insulin in the chick. There are conflicting reports on the effect of insulin on plasma Ca concentration in rats. Low doses appear to decrease and higher doses to increase plasma Ca. Since birds are known to be very sensitive to parathyroid hormone and have resistance to the hypoglycemic effects of insulin, the effect of commercial and highly purified insulin on plasma Ca concentration was studied in 10-day-old chicks 60 min after the administration of the hormone. Both commerical bovine and purified porcine insulin provoked a dose-related elevation of plasma Ca. Although hypophosphatemia was observed with the highest dose of insulin used (0.4U), hypercalcemia was observed with 0.05 U insulin, a dose that did not modify plasma phosphate concentration. The slopes of the dose-response curves of insulin and parathyroid hormone were indistinguishable and different from that of 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3. Neither propranolol nor deprivation of vitamin D altered the hypercalcemic response to insulin. Unexpectedly, propranolol (40 microgram/chick) provoked elevation of plasma Ca. It is concluded that insulin raises plasma Ca concentration in the chick by a mechanism(s) not yet elucidated.", "PMID": 446396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7542", "title": "In vivo 24-hydroxylation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in enterocolectomized rats.", "content": "To determine if the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase is active in addition to the intestinal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase in vivo in the rat, radiolabeled 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 was administrated to normocalcemic, vitamin D-replete, enterocolectomized rats. Substantial amounts of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 were detected and the identity of the isolated plasma 24,25-hydroxyvitamin D3 region in these animals were confirmed by coelution on high pressure liquid chromatography and periodate cleavage. This suggests that both intestinal and renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylases are active in vivo in the rat.", "contents": "In vivo 24-hydroxylation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in enterocolectomized rats. To determine if the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase is active in addition to the intestinal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase in vivo in the rat, radiolabeled 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 was administrated to normocalcemic, vitamin D-replete, enterocolectomized rats. Substantial amounts of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 were detected and the identity of the isolated plasma 24,25-hydroxyvitamin D3 region in these animals were confirmed by coelution on high pressure liquid chromatography and periodate cleavage. This suggests that both intestinal and renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylases are active in vivo in the rat.", "PMID": 446398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7543", "title": "Acute hyperinsulinemia and its reversal by vagotomy after lesions of the ventromedial hypothalamus in anesthetized rats.", "content": "The acute effect of bilateral electrolytic ventromedial hypothalamic lesions (20-25-m Coulomb stainless steel electrodes) on plasma levels of insulin and glucose was studied in anesthetized rats to determine early effects that would occur before hyperphagia and obesity. In rats fed ad libitum, lesions in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) but not in the cortex produced a marked increase in circulating insulin levels (starting at 20 min postlesion) and a small increase in glycemia which, however, was not significant and could therefore not be the cause of increased insulin secretion. Hyperinsulinemia after VMH lesions was more pronounced when glucose was infused iv at a rate of 7-8 mg/kg . min. Bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy, performed 50 min after VMH lesions, immediately and completely reversed the observed hyperinsulinemia. With the exception of a tendency of lesions producing the highest degree of hyperinsulinemia to be slightly larger than the lesions not producing any hyperinsulinemia, no statement about the critical involvement of a specific hypothalamic locus can be made. It is concluded that electrolytic VMH destruction causes immediate hypersecretion of the pancreatic B cell, an effect that requires the integrity of the vagus nerves. Further localization of the central circuitry responsible for this mechanism, however, will require more specific methods than electrolytic lesions.", "contents": "Acute hyperinsulinemia and its reversal by vagotomy after lesions of the ventromedial hypothalamus in anesthetized rats. The acute effect of bilateral electrolytic ventromedial hypothalamic lesions (20-25-m Coulomb stainless steel electrodes) on plasma levels of insulin and glucose was studied in anesthetized rats to determine early effects that would occur before hyperphagia and obesity. In rats fed ad libitum, lesions in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) but not in the cortex produced a marked increase in circulating insulin levels (starting at 20 min postlesion) and a small increase in glycemia which, however, was not significant and could therefore not be the cause of increased insulin secretion. Hyperinsulinemia after VMH lesions was more pronounced when glucose was infused iv at a rate of 7-8 mg/kg . min. Bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy, performed 50 min after VMH lesions, immediately and completely reversed the observed hyperinsulinemia. With the exception of a tendency of lesions producing the highest degree of hyperinsulinemia to be slightly larger than the lesions not producing any hyperinsulinemia, no statement about the critical involvement of a specific hypothalamic locus can be made. It is concluded that electrolytic VMH destruction causes immediate hypersecretion of the pancreatic B cell, an effect that requires the integrity of the vagus nerves. Further localization of the central circuitry responsible for this mechanism, however, will require more specific methods than electrolytic lesions.", "PMID": 446404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7544", "title": "Enhancement of parathyroid hormone-stimulated bone resorption by poly-L-lysine.", "content": "Poly-L-lysine (PL II; mol wt, 1000-4000) was added to fetal rat bones cultured in a chemically defined medium (BGJ) containing bovine serum albumin in the presence and absence of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Bone resorption was measured by the release of previously incorporated 45Ca. The addition of PL II at concentrations of 3-100 microgram/ml enhanced the stimulation of bone resorption by submaximal doses of PTH but had little effect on 45Ca release from control unstimulated cultures. Higher concentrations of PL II produced inhibition of 45Ca release. Dialysis of PL II did not alter enhancement or inhibition by PL II. PL II did not increase sensitivity to PTH in serum-supplemented cultures. Higher molecular weight PL II preparations were less effective. PL II did not enhance the resorptive response to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, prostaglandin E2, osteoclast-activating factor, or bacterial endotoxin. The mechanism of the selective ability of PL II to enhance the response to low concentrations of PTH is unknown but may be due to the ability of this basic polypeptide to interfere with binding of PTH to sites other than the hormone receptor or to block degradation of PTH by bone.", "contents": "Enhancement of parathyroid hormone-stimulated bone resorption by poly-L-lysine. Poly-L-lysine (PL II; mol wt, 1000-4000) was added to fetal rat bones cultured in a chemically defined medium (BGJ) containing bovine serum albumin in the presence and absence of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Bone resorption was measured by the release of previously incorporated 45Ca. The addition of PL II at concentrations of 3-100 microgram/ml enhanced the stimulation of bone resorption by submaximal doses of PTH but had little effect on 45Ca release from control unstimulated cultures. Higher concentrations of PL II produced inhibition of 45Ca release. Dialysis of PL II did not alter enhancement or inhibition by PL II. PL II did not increase sensitivity to PTH in serum-supplemented cultures. Higher molecular weight PL II preparations were less effective. PL II did not enhance the resorptive response to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, prostaglandin E2, osteoclast-activating factor, or bacterial endotoxin. The mechanism of the selective ability of PL II to enhance the response to low concentrations of PTH is unknown but may be due to the ability of this basic polypeptide to interfere with binding of PTH to sites other than the hormone receptor or to block degradation of PTH by bone.", "PMID": 446405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7545", "title": "Developmental patterns of the testicular response to experimental modifications of circulating androgen levels in the fetal rabbit.", "content": "The circulating level of free androgens in fetal and newborn rabbits was reduced by active immunization of mothers against testosterone (T) or was increased by injecting dihydrotestosterone (DHT) into the mothers. After immunization, about 100% of the circulating T and DHT in fetuses was bound. After maternal injection of DHT, the circulating level of this hormone in fetuses was increased 2- to 120-fold. The effects of these treatments were evaluated by determining testicular levels of T, a physiological index of circulating gonadotropin. From 20--23 days of gestation, testicular T content was modified neither by circulating antibodies nor by an increase of blood DHT. The same overloads of circulating DHT, which were ineffective between 20--23 days, significantly reduced testicular T content between 25--29 days. Testicular T content was significantly increased in newborns from immunized mothers. These results suggest that the appearance of the negative feedback action of circulating androgens takes place relatively late, at 24 or 25 days, after differentiation of the genital tract.", "contents": "Developmental patterns of the testicular response to experimental modifications of circulating androgen levels in the fetal rabbit. The circulating level of free androgens in fetal and newborn rabbits was reduced by active immunization of mothers against testosterone (T) or was increased by injecting dihydrotestosterone (DHT) into the mothers. After immunization, about 100% of the circulating T and DHT in fetuses was bound. After maternal injection of DHT, the circulating level of this hormone in fetuses was increased 2- to 120-fold. The effects of these treatments were evaluated by determining testicular levels of T, a physiological index of circulating gonadotropin. From 20--23 days of gestation, testicular T content was modified neither by circulating antibodies nor by an increase of blood DHT. The same overloads of circulating DHT, which were ineffective between 20--23 days, significantly reduced testicular T content between 25--29 days. Testicular T content was significantly increased in newborns from immunized mothers. These results suggest that the appearance of the negative feedback action of circulating androgens takes place relatively late, at 24 or 25 days, after differentiation of the genital tract.", "PMID": 446408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7546", "title": "Tumor growth and calcitonin during serial transplantation of rat medullary thyroid carcinoma.", "content": "We have recently reported immunochemical methods for the measurement and purification of rat calcitonin (CT). To identify a convenient source of CT-producing cells for studies of rat CT biosynthesis, we have propagated 16 transplantable series of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) from 2 types of WAG/Rij rat MTC from The Netherlands. Tumor CT concentrations and growth and plasma CT accumulation were studied in successive transplant generations of each MTC series. Although most MTC series maintained characteristic predictable tumor CT levels, some MTC series acquired nearly 90% lower CT levels. While related MTC series tended to maintain similar predictable growth rates, several spontaneous and propagatable increases (up to 5-fold) in tumor growth rates were noted. These increases occurred with and without concomitant decreases in tumor CT. Tumor CT production ranged over 20-fold among these 16 MTC series. Serial plasma CT analyses can be used to estimate tumor growth and CT production in live MTC rats. Using serial plasma CT analyses, we can select for serial transplantation tumors with specific growth and CT characteristics. This should facilitate propagation of MTC series needed for particular studies of CT production and cancer.", "contents": "Tumor growth and calcitonin during serial transplantation of rat medullary thyroid carcinoma. We have recently reported immunochemical methods for the measurement and purification of rat calcitonin (CT). To identify a convenient source of CT-producing cells for studies of rat CT biosynthesis, we have propagated 16 transplantable series of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) from 2 types of WAG/Rij rat MTC from The Netherlands. Tumor CT concentrations and growth and plasma CT accumulation were studied in successive transplant generations of each MTC series. Although most MTC series maintained characteristic predictable tumor CT levels, some MTC series acquired nearly 90% lower CT levels. While related MTC series tended to maintain similar predictable growth rates, several spontaneous and propagatable increases (up to 5-fold) in tumor growth rates were noted. These increases occurred with and without concomitant decreases in tumor CT. Tumor CT production ranged over 20-fold among these 16 MTC series. Serial plasma CT analyses can be used to estimate tumor growth and CT production in live MTC rats. Using serial plasma CT analyses, we can select for serial transplantation tumors with specific growth and CT characteristics. This should facilitate propagation of MTC series needed for particular studies of CT production and cancer.", "PMID": 446409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7547", "title": "Stereoselective inhibition of aromatase by enantiomers of aminoglutethimide.", "content": "The dextrorotatory enantiomer of aminoglutethimide is 38 times more potent than the levoenantiomer in inhibiting aromatization of testosterone by human placental microsomes. The spectral affinity constant for microsomal cytochrome P-450 is 36 times greater for the d-enantiomer. Enzymatic inhibition and affinity are highly correlated for each of the isomers as well as for the racemic mixture. Spectral analysis of the interactions of the inhibitors with the substrate supports the evidence for participation of cytochrome P-450 in aromatization.", "contents": "Stereoselective inhibition of aromatase by enantiomers of aminoglutethimide. The dextrorotatory enantiomer of aminoglutethimide is 38 times more potent than the levoenantiomer in inhibiting aromatization of testosterone by human placental microsomes. The spectral affinity constant for microsomal cytochrome P-450 is 36 times greater for the d-enantiomer. Enzymatic inhibition and affinity are highly correlated for each of the isomers as well as for the racemic mixture. Spectral analysis of the interactions of the inhibitors with the substrate supports the evidence for participation of cytochrome P-450 in aromatization.", "PMID": 446416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7548", "title": "Relationships among placental, uterine, and circulating concentrations of progesterone and fetal survival in the ovariectomized pregnant rat.", "content": "Pregnant rats were ovariectomized or sham operated on day 15 postcoitum. Four days later, progesterone was measured by RIA in peripheral and uterine vein plasma, in uteri, and in placentae. Maintenance of pregnancy was not critically affected by ovariectomy, since fetal survival was 65.7 +/- 5.1% (mean +/- SEM) despite a large decrease of peripheral plasma progesterone from 115.7 +/- 3.4 to 9.3 +/- 0.5 ng/ml. Peripheral and uterine vein plasma progesterone (8.3 +/- 0.9 ng/ml) were identical. In contrast, placental progesterone decreased only slightly, although significantly, from 27.3 +/- 1.3 to 20.3 +/- 1.0 ng/mg. The concentrations of uterine progesterone were variable and positively correlated with the concentrations of peripheral plasma progesterone. It was concluded that uterine progesterone originates from peripheral blood but not from placentae and that fetal survival is positively correlated with residual progesterone concentrations in peripheral plasma and in uterus but not in placentae.", "contents": "Relationships among placental, uterine, and circulating concentrations of progesterone and fetal survival in the ovariectomized pregnant rat. Pregnant rats were ovariectomized or sham operated on day 15 postcoitum. Four days later, progesterone was measured by RIA in peripheral and uterine vein plasma, in uteri, and in placentae. Maintenance of pregnancy was not critically affected by ovariectomy, since fetal survival was 65.7 +/- 5.1% (mean +/- SEM) despite a large decrease of peripheral plasma progesterone from 115.7 +/- 3.4 to 9.3 +/- 0.5 ng/ml. Peripheral and uterine vein plasma progesterone (8.3 +/- 0.9 ng/ml) were identical. In contrast, placental progesterone decreased only slightly, although significantly, from 27.3 +/- 1.3 to 20.3 +/- 1.0 ng/mg. The concentrations of uterine progesterone were variable and positively correlated with the concentrations of peripheral plasma progesterone. It was concluded that uterine progesterone originates from peripheral blood but not from placentae and that fetal survival is positively correlated with residual progesterone concentrations in peripheral plasma and in uterus but not in placentae.", "PMID": 446417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7549", "title": "Presence and influence of cholinergic nerves in the mouse thyroid.", "content": "The presence and influence of cholinergic nerves in the mouse thyroid was studied by histochemistry and measurements of changes in blood radioiodine (BRI) levels. Numerous nerve fibers displaying specific acetyl choline esterase activity were found, not only as a dense network around vessesl but also as single fibers running around and between thyroid follicles. In stress-adapted normal mice, injection of carbamyl choline (CCh) reduced the BRI levels. In mice whose TSH secretion was suppressed by L-T4, neither CCh nor atropine had any measurable influence on the BRI levels when given alone. However, CCh pretreatment reduced and atropine pretreatment enhanced the TSH-induced BRI increase in such animals. It is concluded that the murine thyroid contains numerous cholinergic nerves that may influence not only thyroid blood flow but also thyroid hormone secretion directly. This direct influence appears to be an inhibitory one, mediated via muscarinic receptors in the follicle cells.", "contents": "Presence and influence of cholinergic nerves in the mouse thyroid. The presence and influence of cholinergic nerves in the mouse thyroid was studied by histochemistry and measurements of changes in blood radioiodine (BRI) levels. Numerous nerve fibers displaying specific acetyl choline esterase activity were found, not only as a dense network around vessesl but also as single fibers running around and between thyroid follicles. In stress-adapted normal mice, injection of carbamyl choline (CCh) reduced the BRI levels. In mice whose TSH secretion was suppressed by L-T4, neither CCh nor atropine had any measurable influence on the BRI levels when given alone. However, CCh pretreatment reduced and atropine pretreatment enhanced the TSH-induced BRI increase in such animals. It is concluded that the murine thyroid contains numerous cholinergic nerves that may influence not only thyroid blood flow but also thyroid hormone secretion directly. This direct influence appears to be an inhibitory one, mediated via muscarinic receptors in the follicle cells.", "PMID": 446418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7550", "title": "Depletion of L-3,5,3'-triiodothyronine and L-thyroxine in euthyroid calf serum for use in cell culture studies of the action of thyroid hormone.", "content": "GH1 cells are a clonal strain of rat pituitary tumor cells which synthesize GH and PRL. We have previously demonstrated that these cells respond to physiological concentrations of L-T3 and L-T4 when cultured with medium supplemented with thyroidectomized calf serum to achieve a thyroid hormone-depleted state under cell culture conditions. In this study, we describe a method to deplete euthyroid calf serum of L-T3 and L-T4 using an anion exchange resin. We demonstrate that the procedure only minimally alters the low molecular weight anion components of the serum and does not change the total protein content or the electrophoretic pattern of serum proteins. Moreover, we show that euthyroid calf serum depleted of L-T3 and L-T4 by this procedure yields serum which, when used as a medium supplement, results in biological responses identical to those obtained with media supplemented with thyroidectomized calf serum. In addition, resin treatment does not alter the growth-promoting properties of the serum if the thyroid hormone concentration is restored. This procedure should be useful in preparing thyroid hormone-depleted serum for cell culture studies in situations where thyroidectomy is not feasible or would require surgical procedures on a large number of small animals.", "contents": "Depletion of L-3,5,3'-triiodothyronine and L-thyroxine in euthyroid calf serum for use in cell culture studies of the action of thyroid hormone. GH1 cells are a clonal strain of rat pituitary tumor cells which synthesize GH and PRL. We have previously demonstrated that these cells respond to physiological concentrations of L-T3 and L-T4 when cultured with medium supplemented with thyroidectomized calf serum to achieve a thyroid hormone-depleted state under cell culture conditions. In this study, we describe a method to deplete euthyroid calf serum of L-T3 and L-T4 using an anion exchange resin. We demonstrate that the procedure only minimally alters the low molecular weight anion components of the serum and does not change the total protein content or the electrophoretic pattern of serum proteins. Moreover, we show that euthyroid calf serum depleted of L-T3 and L-T4 by this procedure yields serum which, when used as a medium supplement, results in biological responses identical to those obtained with media supplemented with thyroidectomized calf serum. In addition, resin treatment does not alter the growth-promoting properties of the serum if the thyroid hormone concentration is restored. This procedure should be useful in preparing thyroid hormone-depleted serum for cell culture studies in situations where thyroidectomy is not feasible or would require surgical procedures on a large number of small animals.", "PMID": 446419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7551", "title": "Fetoscopy--a new endoscopic approach.", "content": "A total of 105 fetoscopies were performed either prior to therapeutic abortions or, in 29 cases, for diagnostic purposes. In these latter cases the fetuses were at increased risk for congenital syndromes, limb deformities, cleft lip and palate or neural-tube defects. The procedure is performed transabdominally under local anaesthesia. The studies confirmed the practicability of the fetoscopic technique as described. Done under direct vision, using simultaneous real-time ultrasound-scanning, the fetoscope can be introduced without damage to fetus and placenta. In diagnostic cases, a total visualization of the entire fetus is not always necessary, as recognition and examination of specific fetal parts is often sufficient for prenatal diagnosis. Viewed in this way, the rate of diagnostic fetoscopies reached 78%. In these cases, the targets chosen for inspection could, in fact, be reached by the fetoscope. A total inspection of the fetus was aimed at in those fetoscopies performed prior to planned abortions in order to gain practice, and this was achieved in 42% of cases. In 5 of the 29 patients already mentioned, the pregnancy was terminated immediately after fetoscopy, and in 24 cases pregnancy was continued. Abortions have so far been recorded in 4 cases, not all of which were necessarily due to the fetoscopy, however. In general, fetoscopy appears to hold less danger for mother and child than had previously been anticipated.", "contents": "Fetoscopy--a new endoscopic approach. A total of 105 fetoscopies were performed either prior to therapeutic abortions or, in 29 cases, for diagnostic purposes. In these latter cases the fetuses were at increased risk for congenital syndromes, limb deformities, cleft lip and palate or neural-tube defects. The procedure is performed transabdominally under local anaesthesia. The studies confirmed the practicability of the fetoscopic technique as described. Done under direct vision, using simultaneous real-time ultrasound-scanning, the fetoscope can be introduced without damage to fetus and placenta. In diagnostic cases, a total visualization of the entire fetus is not always necessary, as recognition and examination of specific fetal parts is often sufficient for prenatal diagnosis. Viewed in this way, the rate of diagnostic fetoscopies reached 78%. In these cases, the targets chosen for inspection could, in fact, be reached by the fetoscope. A total inspection of the fetus was aimed at in those fetoscopies performed prior to planned abortions in order to gain practice, and this was achieved in 42% of cases. In 5 of the 29 patients already mentioned, the pregnancy was terminated immediately after fetoscopy, and in 24 cases pregnancy was continued. Abortions have so far been recorded in 4 cases, not all of which were necessarily due to the fetoscopy, however. In general, fetoscopy appears to hold less danger for mother and child than had previously been anticipated.", "PMID": 446421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7552", "title": "Ovulation recovery after hormonal contraception.", "content": "In an attempt to study the ovulation recovery after hormonal contraception, 20 patients who were on B. C. P. (birth control pills) during 12--36 months, were switched to I. U. D. contraception, and the ovarian changes occurred were assessed by laparoscopy and laparoscopic ovarian biopsy. Fresh corpus leuteum was found in 12 cases (60%), some follicular activity in 4 cases (20%) and no signs of activity in 4 cases (20%). Our results suggest that neither the length of hormonal contraception nor the patient's age have any particular influence upon the return of ovulation.", "contents": "Ovulation recovery after hormonal contraception. In an attempt to study the ovulation recovery after hormonal contraception, 20 patients who were on B. C. P. (birth control pills) during 12--36 months, were switched to I. U. D. contraception, and the ovarian changes occurred were assessed by laparoscopy and laparoscopic ovarian biopsy. Fresh corpus leuteum was found in 12 cases (60%), some follicular activity in 4 cases (20%) and no signs of activity in 4 cases (20%). Our results suggest that neither the length of hormonal contraception nor the patient's age have any particular influence upon the return of ovulation.", "PMID": 446422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7553", "title": "Treatment of megaesophagus with forced dilatation of cardia through hydrostatic balloon attached to a fiberesophagoscope.", "content": "The treatment of megaesophagus through the forced dilatation of the cardia has been used in Brazilian medical centers for the treatment of megaesophagus in the initial stage. In patients with advanced megaesophagus without surgical conditions due to the involvement of various systems or those who present severe degrees of malnutrition it is necessary to perform the dilatation of the cardia even with an temporary effect for the improvement of the general condition. The dilatation balloon usually employed does not permit the device to be used safely due to the deviation of the axis of the distal third of the esophagus. A hydrostatic balloon attached to the fiberesophagoscope was adapted to allow the dilating apparatus to be introduced under direct vision for greater safety. Twenty-one patients were treated under the above mentioned conditions and the results justified the indication.", "contents": "Treatment of megaesophagus with forced dilatation of cardia through hydrostatic balloon attached to a fiberesophagoscope. The treatment of megaesophagus through the forced dilatation of the cardia has been used in Brazilian medical centers for the treatment of megaesophagus in the initial stage. In patients with advanced megaesophagus without surgical conditions due to the involvement of various systems or those who present severe degrees of malnutrition it is necessary to perform the dilatation of the cardia even with an temporary effect for the improvement of the general condition. The dilatation balloon usually employed does not permit the device to be used safely due to the deviation of the axis of the distal third of the esophagus. A hydrostatic balloon attached to the fiberesophagoscope was adapted to allow the dilating apparatus to be introduced under direct vision for greater safety. Twenty-one patients were treated under the above mentioned conditions and the results justified the indication.", "PMID": 446423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7554", "title": "Barrett-esophagus following total gastrectomy. A contribution to it's pathogenesis.", "content": "We have undertaken esophagoscopy 1/2 to 17 1/2 years after surgery in 20 patients with a total gastrectomy and an esophago-jejunal anastomosis. In 5 cases we found a complete columnar lining of the distal esophagus (Barrett-esophagus). 2 other cases showed a multilocular columnar epithelium. One case with a Barrett-esophagus had endoscopy before surgery, and it could be proved that the columnar lining developed after surgery. We suspect that it was the same in the remaining cases. All examined patients, except one, showed an erosive esophagitis of varying severity. These observations support the current view that the columnar lined esophagus is usually an acquired one. The pathogenesis is not completely clear, but reflux of digestive juices destroying the squamous epithelium and impairing healing is the condition for columnar lining. The observations on patients with total gastrectomy prove that it must not necessarily be gastric juice. The very urgent question of the origin of columnar lining cannot be answered at present.", "contents": "Barrett-esophagus following total gastrectomy. A contribution to it's pathogenesis. We have undertaken esophagoscopy 1/2 to 17 1/2 years after surgery in 20 patients with a total gastrectomy and an esophago-jejunal anastomosis. In 5 cases we found a complete columnar lining of the distal esophagus (Barrett-esophagus). 2 other cases showed a multilocular columnar epithelium. One case with a Barrett-esophagus had endoscopy before surgery, and it could be proved that the columnar lining developed after surgery. We suspect that it was the same in the remaining cases. All examined patients, except one, showed an erosive esophagitis of varying severity. These observations support the current view that the columnar lined esophagus is usually an acquired one. The pathogenesis is not completely clear, but reflux of digestive juices destroying the squamous epithelium and impairing healing is the condition for columnar lining. The observations on patients with total gastrectomy prove that it must not necessarily be gastric juice. The very urgent question of the origin of columnar lining cannot be answered at present.", "PMID": 446424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7555", "title": "Atrophic gastritis after Billroth I gastrectomy.", "content": "The gastric mucosa of a stomach resected according to Billroth I operation is subject to a process of aging twice as intense as that of a non-resected one. Atrophy after Billroth I gastrectomy increased by 3% on an average per annum. As a result, a typical distribution of degrees of inflammation in the region of the greater curvature became evident. Atrophic gastritis occurres especially near the anastomosis and decreases in the direction of the fornix. The possibility is discussed that resected patients--in contrast to non-resected--are afflicted with stomach cancer primarily on account of the more intense and earlier mucosal atrophy.", "contents": "Atrophic gastritis after Billroth I gastrectomy. The gastric mucosa of a stomach resected according to Billroth I operation is subject to a process of aging twice as intense as that of a non-resected one. Atrophy after Billroth I gastrectomy increased by 3% on an average per annum. As a result, a typical distribution of degrees of inflammation in the region of the greater curvature became evident. Atrophic gastritis occurres especially near the anastomosis and decreases in the direction of the fornix. The possibility is discussed that resected patients--in contrast to non-resected--are afflicted with stomach cancer primarily on account of the more intense and earlier mucosal atrophy.", "PMID": 446425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7556", "title": "Changes in serum isoamylase activities after fibergastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy. Isoamylase after FGDS and FCS.", "content": "The effects of endoscopic examination on the changes in serum amylase activity were investigated in hospitalized patients without salivary and pancreatic disorders. Sixty-nine patients were selected for the peroral fibergastroduodenal endoscopy and twenty-three patients for the peranal fibercolonoscopy. Blood samples were drawn before, immediately after, 4 hrs and 24 hrs after the termination of the examinations. The serum activities of the salivary type isoamylase increased in 7 out of 69 cases 4 hrs after the examination with the fibergastroduodenoscope, but none in all 23 cases after the examination with the fibercolonoscope. On the other hand, the serum activity of the pancreatic type isoamylase did not change following both examinations. A significant rise in serum cortisol levels was induced by both examinations. There were no correlations between the rise in salivary type isoamylase and that in serum cortisol levels. These results did not suggest that the increase of salivary type isoamylase was mediated by the hypophysio-adrenocortical axis. Other possible mechanisms were discussed.", "contents": "Changes in serum isoamylase activities after fibergastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy. Isoamylase after FGDS and FCS. The effects of endoscopic examination on the changes in serum amylase activity were investigated in hospitalized patients without salivary and pancreatic disorders. Sixty-nine patients were selected for the peroral fibergastroduodenal endoscopy and twenty-three patients for the peranal fibercolonoscopy. Blood samples were drawn before, immediately after, 4 hrs and 24 hrs after the termination of the examinations. The serum activities of the salivary type isoamylase increased in 7 out of 69 cases 4 hrs after the examination with the fibergastroduodenoscope, but none in all 23 cases after the examination with the fibercolonoscope. On the other hand, the serum activity of the pancreatic type isoamylase did not change following both examinations. A significant rise in serum cortisol levels was induced by both examinations. There were no correlations between the rise in salivary type isoamylase and that in serum cortisol levels. These results did not suggest that the increase of salivary type isoamylase was mediated by the hypophysio-adrenocortical axis. Other possible mechanisms were discussed.", "PMID": 446426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7557", "title": "Five years experience of endoscopic sphincterotomy in Japan: a collective study from 25 centres.", "content": "Five years experience of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy (EST) in Japan has been analyzed in 468 collective cases from 25 centres. In the indication of EST, biliary tract stones were the main reason, and shared in 92.5% of the success of EST. Other applications were benign stenosis of the papilla of Vater, ascaris of the common bile duct and so on where these formed a small group in the indication of EST. Complete removal of stones had been observed spontaneously in 62.3% of the cases, and with the help of a basket or balloon catheter in 23.7% of successful EST. However, fourteen percent of EST had no effect on the delivery of gallstones. Complications during and after EST were observed in 8.5% of all cases where hemorrhage, pancreatitis and cholangitis were the main hazards. The mortality rate was 0.4%, a considerably low rate when the figure is simply compared with that of cases involving surgical intervention. Finally, the term of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy (EST) was proposed for this procedure because it proved to be the best expression of the actual procedure.", "contents": "Five years experience of endoscopic sphincterotomy in Japan: a collective study from 25 centres. Five years experience of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy (EST) in Japan has been analyzed in 468 collective cases from 25 centres. In the indication of EST, biliary tract stones were the main reason, and shared in 92.5% of the success of EST. Other applications were benign stenosis of the papilla of Vater, ascaris of the common bile duct and so on where these formed a small group in the indication of EST. Complete removal of stones had been observed spontaneously in 62.3% of the cases, and with the help of a basket or balloon catheter in 23.7% of successful EST. However, fourteen percent of EST had no effect on the delivery of gallstones. Complications during and after EST were observed in 8.5% of all cases where hemorrhage, pancreatitis and cholangitis were the main hazards. The mortality rate was 0.4%, a considerably low rate when the figure is simply compared with that of cases involving surgical intervention. Finally, the term of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy (EST) was proposed for this procedure because it proved to be the best expression of the actual procedure.", "PMID": 446427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7558", "title": "ERCP and EPT: Italian experience.", "content": "The use of endoscopy has had a satisfactory development in Italy and today at least 70% of Italian hospitals have a fiberscope. Most of the examinations performed are in the diagnosis of diseases of the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum, whilst only a small percentage are represented by coloscopy which is usually carried out in specialized units. One of the examinations, that is most rarely performed, is ERCP, even if some hospitals have a duodenoscope suitable for catheterization of the papilla of Vater. Regardless of the fact that the usefulness of this method has been recognized and that positive results are being reported from various centers throughout the world, ERCP in Italy is performed by very few endoscopists and only in very highly specialized centres. In Rome, for example, ERCP is performed only in our Centre of Digestive Endoscopy which furthermore has the only important experience in Italy in endoscopic papillo-sphincterotomy (EPT); this type of operation has, in fact, so far been carried out only in a very limited number of patients, in a few other endoscopy units.", "contents": "ERCP and EPT: Italian experience. The use of endoscopy has had a satisfactory development in Italy and today at least 70% of Italian hospitals have a fiberscope. Most of the examinations performed are in the diagnosis of diseases of the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum, whilst only a small percentage are represented by coloscopy which is usually carried out in specialized units. One of the examinations, that is most rarely performed, is ERCP, even if some hospitals have a duodenoscope suitable for catheterization of the papilla of Vater. Regardless of the fact that the usefulness of this method has been recognized and that positive results are being reported from various centers throughout the world, ERCP in Italy is performed by very few endoscopists and only in very highly specialized centres. In Rome, for example, ERCP is performed only in our Centre of Digestive Endoscopy which furthermore has the only important experience in Italy in endoscopic papillo-sphincterotomy (EPT); this type of operation has, in fact, so far been carried out only in a very limited number of patients, in a few other endoscopy units.", "PMID": 446428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7559", "title": "Complications of diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy in the Federal Republic of Germany. Results of an inquiry.", "content": "In April, 1978, we carried out a survey covering 27 hospitals, in which colonoscopy is performed on a routine basis. With respect to the size of the hospital, the equipment available and the level of training of the examiner, this selection may be regarded as representative. A total of 35,892 colonoscopies, 7,365 polypectomies, 58 electrocoagulations and 14 rugectomies were analysed with respect to the nature, localization and treatment of any complications that arose. The rate of complications seen in diagnostic colonoscopy was 0.008% for bleeding and 0.14% for perforation, the mortality rate being 0.02%. As expected, the complication rate for colonoscopic polypectomy was higher. Bleedings were reported in 2.24%, perforations in 0.34% and deaths in 0.1% of the examinations. Of particular importance would seem to be the possibilities of preventing complications. It was shown on the basis of the survey that a good, standardized training of the endoscopist, the strict observance of the contraindications, the non-use of analgesics and general anaesthesia, fluoroscopic control of \"difficult\" colons and the use of the best instruments and aids presently available, reduce the complication rate to a minimum.", "contents": "Complications of diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy in the Federal Republic of Germany. Results of an inquiry. In April, 1978, we carried out a survey covering 27 hospitals, in which colonoscopy is performed on a routine basis. With respect to the size of the hospital, the equipment available and the level of training of the examiner, this selection may be regarded as representative. A total of 35,892 colonoscopies, 7,365 polypectomies, 58 electrocoagulations and 14 rugectomies were analysed with respect to the nature, localization and treatment of any complications that arose. The rate of complications seen in diagnostic colonoscopy was 0.008% for bleeding and 0.14% for perforation, the mortality rate being 0.02%. As expected, the complication rate for colonoscopic polypectomy was higher. Bleedings were reported in 2.24%, perforations in 0.34% and deaths in 0.1% of the examinations. Of particular importance would seem to be the possibilities of preventing complications. It was shown on the basis of the survey that a good, standardized training of the endoscopist, the strict observance of the contraindications, the non-use of analgesics and general anaesthesia, fluoroscopic control of \"difficult\" colons and the use of the best instruments and aids presently available, reduce the complication rate to a minimum.", "PMID": 446429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7560", "title": "Intravenous phenytoin and phenobarbital: anticonvulsant action, brain content, and plasma binding in rat.", "content": "14C-phenytoin or 3H-phenobarbital were given through indwelling jugular catheters to 65 rats. Anticonvulsant activity was tested by the maximal electroshock seizure test and was correlated with brain concentrations of phenytoin or phenobarbital. Free and total plasma drug levels were determined by equilibrium dialysis. The median effective cerebral phenytoin concentration (EC50) was 10.5 microM/kg (95% fiducial limits, 8.2 to 12.4) 3 min after infusion compared with 10.2 microM/kg 30 min after infusion. The EC50 of phenobarbital was 8.2 microM/kg (6.7 to 9.3 microM/kg) 3 min after infusion. Cerebellar concentrations were equivalent to cerebral concentrations for all rats (r = 0.98). Three minutes after infusion, cerebral:plasma free ratio of phenytoin was 3.73 +/- 0.71 (+/- S.D.); the plasma protein bound:free ratio, 3.70 +/- 0.98. For phenobarbital, the cerebral:plasma free ratio was 0.72 +/- 0.10; the plasma protein bound:free ratio, 0.63 +/- 0.12. Since the EC50 values of phenytoin 3 or 30 min after infusion did not differ, onset of anticonvulsant effect clearly occurred as soon as adequate brain concentrations were attained. Phenobarbital was effective 3 min after infusion, and although much higher free plasma levels were necessary, effective brain concentrations were similar to those of phenytoin. Brain content paralleled plasma protein binding, both being high for phenytoin and low for phenobarbital.", "contents": "Intravenous phenytoin and phenobarbital: anticonvulsant action, brain content, and plasma binding in rat. 14C-phenytoin or 3H-phenobarbital were given through indwelling jugular catheters to 65 rats. Anticonvulsant activity was tested by the maximal electroshock seizure test and was correlated with brain concentrations of phenytoin or phenobarbital. Free and total plasma drug levels were determined by equilibrium dialysis. The median effective cerebral phenytoin concentration (EC50) was 10.5 microM/kg (95% fiducial limits, 8.2 to 12.4) 3 min after infusion compared with 10.2 microM/kg 30 min after infusion. The EC50 of phenobarbital was 8.2 microM/kg (6.7 to 9.3 microM/kg) 3 min after infusion. Cerebellar concentrations were equivalent to cerebral concentrations for all rats (r = 0.98). Three minutes after infusion, cerebral:plasma free ratio of phenytoin was 3.73 +/- 0.71 (+/- S.D.); the plasma protein bound:free ratio, 3.70 +/- 0.98. For phenobarbital, the cerebral:plasma free ratio was 0.72 +/- 0.10; the plasma protein bound:free ratio, 0.63 +/- 0.12. Since the EC50 values of phenytoin 3 or 30 min after infusion did not differ, onset of anticonvulsant effect clearly occurred as soon as adequate brain concentrations were attained. Phenobarbital was effective 3 min after infusion, and although much higher free plasma levels were necessary, effective brain concentrations were similar to those of phenytoin. Brain content paralleled plasma protein binding, both being high for phenytoin and low for phenobarbital.", "PMID": 446431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7561", "title": "Anticonvulsant properties of betaine.", "content": "It has been shown previously that convulsions induced by homocysteine are blocked by betaine. In the present study, betaine was found to block the induction of convulsions by electroconvulsive shock and by pentylenetetrazol at least at effectively as it blocked convulsions induced by homocysteine. Thus, betaine has a general anticonvulsant action, the reason for which is unknown.", "contents": "Anticonvulsant properties of betaine. It has been shown previously that convulsions induced by homocysteine are blocked by betaine. In the present study, betaine was found to block the induction of convulsions by electroconvulsive shock and by pentylenetetrazol at least at effectively as it blocked convulsions induced by homocysteine. Thus, betaine has a general anticonvulsant action, the reason for which is unknown.", "PMID": 446432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7562", "title": "Cerebellar stimulation: regional effects on a thalamocortical system.", "content": "Regional effects of electrical stimulation of the cerebellar surface were quantitatively analyzed. Computer controlled stimulus sequences were delivered to ventrolateral thalamus and evoked responses recorded from ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex in the cat. Threshold and excitability profiles were produced with an on-line computer, and their modification by cerebellar stimulation was determined. The results of electrical stimulation of the cerebellar surface were: (1) depressed excitability from paramedian lobule and lobulus simplex; (2) uniquely elevated thresholds from paramedian lobule; and (3) a profound and long-lasting depression of excitability following termination of lobulus simplex stimulation. In comparison with our anticonvulsant drug studies, these data suggest that cerebellar surface stimulation has a far greater capacity to control excitability and threshold responsiveness of thalamocortical systems. Cerebellar electrode placement and temporal pattern of stimulation appear to be important factors in the production of antiepileptic effects.", "contents": "Cerebellar stimulation: regional effects on a thalamocortical system. Regional effects of electrical stimulation of the cerebellar surface were quantitatively analyzed. Computer controlled stimulus sequences were delivered to ventrolateral thalamus and evoked responses recorded from ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex in the cat. Threshold and excitability profiles were produced with an on-line computer, and their modification by cerebellar stimulation was determined. The results of electrical stimulation of the cerebellar surface were: (1) depressed excitability from paramedian lobule and lobulus simplex; (2) uniquely elevated thresholds from paramedian lobule; and (3) a profound and long-lasting depression of excitability following termination of lobulus simplex stimulation. In comparison with our anticonvulsant drug studies, these data suggest that cerebellar surface stimulation has a far greater capacity to control excitability and threshold responsiveness of thalamocortical systems. Cerebellar electrode placement and temporal pattern of stimulation appear to be important factors in the production of antiepileptic effects.", "PMID": 446433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7563", "title": "Prevalence of epilepsy in children of Melipilla, Chile.", "content": "The prevalence of epilepsy among children born in 1966 and reaching the age of 9 years during 1975 was investigated in Melipilla, Chile, using questions similar to those used by Rose et al. (1973). Of 2,104 potential respondents, 2,085 were interviewed. A sample of 593 children received neurological examination and 455 received an electroencephalogram. The prevalence rates for epilepsy were higher than those reported in two American studies using the same methodology. The possibility of socioeconomic factors to account for these differences was considered. Prevalence rates for simple febrile convulsions and minimal brain dysfunction were similarly calculated.", "contents": "Prevalence of epilepsy in children of Melipilla, Chile. The prevalence of epilepsy among children born in 1966 and reaching the age of 9 years during 1975 was investigated in Melipilla, Chile, using questions similar to those used by Rose et al. (1973). Of 2,104 potential respondents, 2,085 were interviewed. A sample of 593 children received neurological examination and 455 received an electroencephalogram. The prevalence rates for epilepsy were higher than those reported in two American studies using the same methodology. The possibility of socioeconomic factors to account for these differences was considered. Prevalence rates for simple febrile convulsions and minimal brain dysfunction were similarly calculated.", "PMID": 446434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7564", "title": "Slow depolarizing potentials in \"epileptic\" neurons.", "content": "Slow depolarizing potentials following penicillin-induced epileptiform bursting were recorded intracellularly from cat cortical neurons in vivo and guinea pig hippocampal neurons in vitro. In in vitro experiments, it was shown that blocking potassium conductance with tetraethylammonium resulted in epileptiform bursting and after potentials similar to those seen with penicillin application. It is hypothesized that an abnormality in potassium conductance, and a resulting increase in calcium influx, could be responsible for the long depolarizations characteristic of some neurons in epileptic foci.", "contents": "Slow depolarizing potentials in \"epileptic\" neurons. Slow depolarizing potentials following penicillin-induced epileptiform bursting were recorded intracellularly from cat cortical neurons in vivo and guinea pig hippocampal neurons in vitro. In in vitro experiments, it was shown that blocking potassium conductance with tetraethylammonium resulted in epileptiform bursting and after potentials similar to those seen with penicillin application. It is hypothesized that an abnormality in potassium conductance, and a resulting increase in calcium influx, could be responsible for the long depolarizations characteristic of some neurons in epileptic foci.", "PMID": 446435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7565", "title": "EEG operant conditioning for control of epilepsy.", "content": "We report the results of 23 severely epileptic patients who were given EEG feedback training. The paradigm reinforced the patients' 18 Hz activity over the scalp approximation of their focus while suppressing temporalis EMG and low frequency EEG activity. In contrast to other studies using EEG feedback, only 43% of patients showed significant changes in seizure occurrence and a lesser number were felt to have benefited clinically. None of our neuropsychological test parameters were helpful in identifying (prospectively or retrospectively) patients most likely to respond to this treatment. Although a few patients were significantly helped by this training, the mechanism for this effect is unclear.", "contents": "EEG operant conditioning for control of epilepsy. We report the results of 23 severely epileptic patients who were given EEG feedback training. The paradigm reinforced the patients' 18 Hz activity over the scalp approximation of their focus while suppressing temporalis EMG and low frequency EEG activity. In contrast to other studies using EEG feedback, only 43% of patients showed significant changes in seizure occurrence and a lesser number were felt to have benefited clinically. None of our neuropsychological test parameters were helpful in identifying (prospectively or retrospectively) patients most likely to respond to this treatment. Although a few patients were significantly helped by this training, the mechanism for this effect is unclear.", "PMID": 446436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7566", "title": "Evidence for the epoxide-diol pathway in the biotransformation of mephenytoin.", "content": "A dihydrodiol metabolite of mephenytoin (5-dihydroxycyclohexadienyl)-5-ethyl-3-methylhydantoin and other mono- and dihydroxylated and N-demethylated metabolites were identified in urine from a male epileptic patient receiving therapy with mephenytoin (300 mg/day). Metabolites, extracted from urine before and after enzymatic hydrolysis, were derivatized with a trimethylsilyl reagent and analyzed by combined gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Two previously unreported metabolites were characterized: 5-ethyl-5-(di-hydroxyphenyl)-3-methylhydantoin and 5-ethyl-5-(hydroxy-methoxy-phenyl)-3-methylhydantoin. The structures of several other metabolites were confirmed: N-demethylmephenytoin, 5-ethyl-5-hydroxyphenylhydantoin, 5-ethyl-5-hydroxyphenyl-3-methylhydantoin and mephenytoin dihyrodiol. The dihydrodiol metabolite was of special interest since it was probably produced via an epoxide intermediate, 5-(epoxy-cyclohexadienyl)-5-ethyl-3-methylhydantoin. Previous reports have demonstrated that epoxides of this structural class are extremely reactive compounds, capable of alkylating biologic macromolecules. Covalent binding of the mephenytoin epoxide to macromolecules may be an important factor in the production of adverse and sometimes fatal side effects observed in patients receiving long-term therapy with mephenytoin.", "contents": "Evidence for the epoxide-diol pathway in the biotransformation of mephenytoin. A dihydrodiol metabolite of mephenytoin (5-dihydroxycyclohexadienyl)-5-ethyl-3-methylhydantoin and other mono- and dihydroxylated and N-demethylated metabolites were identified in urine from a male epileptic patient receiving therapy with mephenytoin (300 mg/day). Metabolites, extracted from urine before and after enzymatic hydrolysis, were derivatized with a trimethylsilyl reagent and analyzed by combined gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Two previously unreported metabolites were characterized: 5-ethyl-5-(di-hydroxyphenyl)-3-methylhydantoin and 5-ethyl-5-(hydroxy-methoxy-phenyl)-3-methylhydantoin. The structures of several other metabolites were confirmed: N-demethylmephenytoin, 5-ethyl-5-hydroxyphenylhydantoin, 5-ethyl-5-hydroxyphenyl-3-methylhydantoin and mephenytoin dihyrodiol. The dihydrodiol metabolite was of special interest since it was probably produced via an epoxide intermediate, 5-(epoxy-cyclohexadienyl)-5-ethyl-3-methylhydantoin. Previous reports have demonstrated that epoxides of this structural class are extremely reactive compounds, capable of alkylating biologic macromolecules. Covalent binding of the mephenytoin epoxide to macromolecules may be an important factor in the production of adverse and sometimes fatal side effects observed in patients receiving long-term therapy with mephenytoin.", "PMID": 446437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7567", "title": "Predicting serum vitamin E concentrations from the age of normal and anticonvulsant drug-treated epileptic children using regression equations.", "content": "Serum vitamin E was assayed in 100 patients who were apparently normal, with no medical problems and on no medication, and whose ages ranged from 2 to 12 years. Serum vitamin E was also assayed in 100 patients with grand mal convulsive disorders, on anticonvulsants, but on no other drugs, with no gastrointestinal problems and in a similar age range. In the 100 control children, there was a tendency for serum vitamin E to increase with age. Serum vitamin E concentrations in 100 anticonvulsant drug-treated epileptic children were significantly lower than in the control group and did not increase with age. In the control group, a regression analysis was used to predict serum vitamin E concentrations in different age groups. This information would be useful for population and metabolic studies of serum vitamin E concentrations.", "contents": "Predicting serum vitamin E concentrations from the age of normal and anticonvulsant drug-treated epileptic children using regression equations. Serum vitamin E was assayed in 100 patients who were apparently normal, with no medical problems and on no medication, and whose ages ranged from 2 to 12 years. Serum vitamin E was also assayed in 100 patients with grand mal convulsive disorders, on anticonvulsants, but on no other drugs, with no gastrointestinal problems and in a similar age range. In the 100 control children, there was a tendency for serum vitamin E to increase with age. Serum vitamin E concentrations in 100 anticonvulsant drug-treated epileptic children were significantly lower than in the control group and did not increase with age. In the control group, a regression analysis was used to predict serum vitamin E concentrations in different age groups. This information would be useful for population and metabolic studies of serum vitamin E concentrations.", "PMID": 446438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7568", "title": "Dipterex teratogenicity in the rat, hamster, and mouse when given by gavage.", "content": "Dipterex was teratogenic after administration by gavage (t.i.d.) at a dose level of 480 mg/kg-day to the CP rat on days 6 through 15 of gestation, but not when administered only on days 8 or 10 of gestation. A positive teratogenic response also occurred in the hamster after administration on days 7 through 11 of gestation at 400 mg/kg-day; the apparent no-effect level for the criteria studied was 200 mg/kg-day. Embryotoxicity, but not teratogenicity, occurred after administration of 400 mg/kg-day on day 8 of gestation. In both species, the teratogenicity seen was not merely due to reduced maternal food consumption during the period of exposure. The mouse was less susceptible to Dipterex than were the rat and hamster, but a significant increase in the incidence of cleft palates resulted from exposure on days 10 through 14, or on days 12 through 14 of gestation.", "contents": "Dipterex teratogenicity in the rat, hamster, and mouse when given by gavage. Dipterex was teratogenic after administration by gavage (t.i.d.) at a dose level of 480 mg/kg-day to the CP rat on days 6 through 15 of gestation, but not when administered only on days 8 or 10 of gestation. A positive teratogenic response also occurred in the hamster after administration on days 7 through 11 of gestation at 400 mg/kg-day; the apparent no-effect level for the criteria studied was 200 mg/kg-day. Embryotoxicity, but not teratogenicity, occurred after administration of 400 mg/kg-day on day 8 of gestation. In both species, the teratogenicity seen was not merely due to reduced maternal food consumption during the period of exposure. The mouse was less susceptible to Dipterex than were the rat and hamster, but a significant increase in the incidence of cleft palates resulted from exposure on days 10 through 14, or on days 12 through 14 of gestation.", "PMID": 446441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7569", "title": "Study of nonionizing microwave radiation effects upon the central nervous system and behavior reactions.", "content": "The biologic effect of an electromagnetic field of a frequency of 2375 +/- 50 MHz was studied in rats and rabbits in specially constructed absorbant chambers. The results of the investigations have shown that microwave radiation of 10, 50, 500 mu W/cm2 for 30 days, 7 hr/day, causes a number of changes in bioelectric brain activity and also in behavioral immunological, and cytochemical reactions. It was found that levels of 10 and 50 mu W/cm2 stimulate the electric brain activity at the initial stage of irradiation, while a level of 500 mu W/cm2 causes its suppression, as seen from the increase of slow, high amplitude delta-waves. At 500 mu W/cm2 a decrease in capacity of work, in value of unconditioned feeding stimulus, in investigating activity, electronic irradiation threshold, and in inhibition of cellular and humoral immunity were also observed.", "contents": "Study of nonionizing microwave radiation effects upon the central nervous system and behavior reactions. The biologic effect of an electromagnetic field of a frequency of 2375 +/- 50 MHz was studied in rats and rabbits in specially constructed absorbant chambers. The results of the investigations have shown that microwave radiation of 10, 50, 500 mu W/cm2 for 30 days, 7 hr/day, causes a number of changes in bioelectric brain activity and also in behavioral immunological, and cytochemical reactions. It was found that levels of 10 and 50 mu W/cm2 stimulate the electric brain activity at the initial stage of irradiation, while a level of 500 mu W/cm2 causes its suppression, as seen from the increase of slow, high amplitude delta-waves. At 500 mu W/cm2 a decrease in capacity of work, in value of unconditioned feeding stimulus, in investigating activity, electronic irradiation threshold, and in inhibition of cellular and humoral immunity were also observed.", "PMID": 446442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7570", "title": "Effects of noinionizing radiation on the central nervous system, behavior, and blood: a progress report.", "content": "This paper presents a progress report on the U. S. research which has been designated as collaborative research with the Soviet Union to study the biological effects of nonionizing radiation on the central nervous system, behavior, and blood. Results of investigations to study the effects of microwaves on isolated nerves, synaptic function, transmission of neural impulses, electroencephalographic recordings, behavior, and on chemical, cytochemical and immunological properties of the blood are presented. Specifically, the effects of microwave exposure on chick brain and cat spinal cords, on EEG patterns of rats, on behavioral of neonatal rats exposed during development, on behavior of adult rats, on behavior of rhesus monkeys and on the pathology, hematology, and immunology of rabbits will be reported in a summary format. Much of the information is new and has not been published previously.", "contents": "Effects of noinionizing radiation on the central nervous system, behavior, and blood: a progress report. This paper presents a progress report on the U. S. research which has been designated as collaborative research with the Soviet Union to study the biological effects of nonionizing radiation on the central nervous system, behavior, and blood. Results of investigations to study the effects of microwaves on isolated nerves, synaptic function, transmission of neural impulses, electroencephalographic recordings, behavior, and on chemical, cytochemical and immunological properties of the blood are presented. Specifically, the effects of microwave exposure on chick brain and cat spinal cords, on EEG patterns of rats, on behavioral of neonatal rats exposed during development, on behavior of adult rats, on behavior of rhesus monkeys and on the pathology, hematology, and immunology of rabbits will be reported in a summary format. Much of the information is new and has not been published previously.", "PMID": 446443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7571", "title": "Study of the combined action of a group of chlorine derivatives of hydrocarbons entering the organism by inhalation.", "content": "The combined action of substances having a munidirectional toxic effect on the organism was studied for several typical chlorine derivatives of hydrocarbons (1,2-dichloropropane, 1,2,3,-trichloropropane, and perchloroethylene). Since a correct assessment of the combined action of substances is based on the comparison of the effect of mixed compounds and the effects observed for each component alone, research was conducted on each individual substances on the basis of the \"concentration--time\" relationship. The reaction of several mixtures of substances was also studied at various concentration levels, from high to low concentration levels of substances which are actually present in the atmosphere. Research result showed that the character of the mixture at both high and low levels of concentration was identical and approximate to the overall effects.", "contents": "Study of the combined action of a group of chlorine derivatives of hydrocarbons entering the organism by inhalation. The combined action of substances having a munidirectional toxic effect on the organism was studied for several typical chlorine derivatives of hydrocarbons (1,2-dichloropropane, 1,2,3,-trichloropropane, and perchloroethylene). Since a correct assessment of the combined action of substances is based on the comparison of the effect of mixed compounds and the effects observed for each component alone, research was conducted on each individual substances on the basis of the \"concentration--time\" relationship. The reaction of several mixtures of substances was also studied at various concentration levels, from high to low concentration levels of substances which are actually present in the atmosphere. Research result showed that the character of the mixture at both high and low levels of concentration was identical and approximate to the overall effects.", "PMID": 446444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7572", "title": "Scientific basis for the study of demineralization of highly mineralized water for use in public water supply systems.", "content": "New criteria (full physiological value and preservation of the properties of drinking water) are scientifically substantiated. Also discussed are indices (minimal admissible and optimal levels of basic water mineralization and calcium content, standards of microelements such as boron and bromine content, content of individual groups of microorganisms, water temperature) for evaluating the quality of demineralized water obtained from brackish and briny water (including water from the sea and ocean) by various methods which are designed for public water supply systems. Research results served as the scientific hygiene basis for the development of a new technology of obtaining drinking water. The necessity for developing a special quality standard for demineralized drinking water is shown.", "contents": "Scientific basis for the study of demineralization of highly mineralized water for use in public water supply systems. New criteria (full physiological value and preservation of the properties of drinking water) are scientifically substantiated. Also discussed are indices (minimal admissible and optimal levels of basic water mineralization and calcium content, standards of microelements such as boron and bromine content, content of individual groups of microorganisms, water temperature) for evaluating the quality of demineralized water obtained from brackish and briny water (including water from the sea and ocean) by various methods which are designed for public water supply systems. Research results served as the scientific hygiene basis for the development of a new technology of obtaining drinking water. The necessity for developing a special quality standard for demineralized drinking water is shown.", "PMID": 446445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7573", "title": "Bioassay of complex mixtures derived from fossil fuels.", "content": "The conversion or processing of shale, coal, or petroleum involves elevated temperatures and altered pressures, and under these conditions polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons are likely to form. Certain compounds of this type exhibit carcinogenic activity for a variety of organ sites in experimental animals and epidemiological evidence strongly implicates their role as carcinogens in man. It is then not unexpected that many liquid fractions derived from shale and coal are carcinogenic when subjected to bioassay. Benzo(a)pyrene, [B(a)P], is frequently considered to be an indicator substance. It is clear that when a small quantity of B(a)P is present in a fraction, the fraction will exhibit carcinogenic activity in a bioassay (mouse skin). However, it does not follow that the lack of detectable B(a)P insures that the fraction will be noncarcinogenic. Several fractions have been analyzed for their content of B(a)P and then subjected to bioassay. A method for testing complex mixtures for their carcinogenic potential is described. The carcinogenic potency of these fractions are compared to petroleum fractions.", "contents": "Bioassay of complex mixtures derived from fossil fuels. The conversion or processing of shale, coal, or petroleum involves elevated temperatures and altered pressures, and under these conditions polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons are likely to form. Certain compounds of this type exhibit carcinogenic activity for a variety of organ sites in experimental animals and epidemiological evidence strongly implicates their role as carcinogens in man. It is then not unexpected that many liquid fractions derived from shale and coal are carcinogenic when subjected to bioassay. Benzo(a)pyrene, [B(a)P], is frequently considered to be an indicator substance. It is clear that when a small quantity of B(a)P is present in a fraction, the fraction will exhibit carcinogenic activity in a bioassay (mouse skin). However, it does not follow that the lack of detectable B(a)P insures that the fraction will be noncarcinogenic. Several fractions have been analyzed for their content of B(a)P and then subjected to bioassay. A method for testing complex mixtures for their carcinogenic potential is described. The carcinogenic potency of these fractions are compared to petroleum fractions.", "PMID": 446446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7574", "title": "Carcinogenicity of oil shale tars, some of their components, and commercial products.", "content": "Bioassays for carcinogenicity of various primary processing products (crude oils or tars) and commercial products obtained from Estorian oil shale have been carried out since 1951. The products (undiluted or diluted) were painted twice weekly 50 times on the interscapular area of the skin of random-bred or CC57Br mice. The products processed at high temperatures have a higher carcinogenic activity. Blends of products containing over 10% of high temperature crude oil (chamber furnace oil) have about the same carcinogenic activity as the latter. There is no strict correlation between the concentration of benzo(a)pyrene (BP) in oil shale products and their carcinogenic activity. Determination of BP in such products can serve as an approximate estimate of carcinogenic properties. The results of animal experiments with chromatographic fractions of the high temperature shale oil demonstrated the presence of compounds which lengthen the latency period of the carcinogenic effect of BP in the aromatic fraction of this oil as well as other carcinogens and compounds enhancing the activity of carcinogenic compounds. Under industrial conditions, contact of workers with carcinogenic shale oils can be reduced by means of coking the carcinogenic oils, which results in production of solid coke and of distillate which is recycled. Medical vaseline potentiates the carcinogenic action of BP and similar compounds. Dilution of shale oils with oils containing aliphatic hydrocarbons cannot be considered as diminution of the carcinogenic potency of these products.", "contents": "Carcinogenicity of oil shale tars, some of their components, and commercial products. Bioassays for carcinogenicity of various primary processing products (crude oils or tars) and commercial products obtained from Estorian oil shale have been carried out since 1951. The products (undiluted or diluted) were painted twice weekly 50 times on the interscapular area of the skin of random-bred or CC57Br mice. The products processed at high temperatures have a higher carcinogenic activity. Blends of products containing over 10% of high temperature crude oil (chamber furnace oil) have about the same carcinogenic activity as the latter. There is no strict correlation between the concentration of benzo(a)pyrene (BP) in oil shale products and their carcinogenic activity. Determination of BP in such products can serve as an approximate estimate of carcinogenic properties. The results of animal experiments with chromatographic fractions of the high temperature shale oil demonstrated the presence of compounds which lengthen the latency period of the carcinogenic effect of BP in the aromatic fraction of this oil as well as other carcinogens and compounds enhancing the activity of carcinogenic compounds. Under industrial conditions, contact of workers with carcinogenic shale oils can be reduced by means of coking the carcinogenic oils, which results in production of solid coke and of distillate which is recycled. Medical vaseline potentiates the carcinogenic action of BP and similar compounds. Dilution of shale oils with oils containing aliphatic hydrocarbons cannot be considered as diminution of the carcinogenic potency of these products.", "PMID": 446447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7575", "title": "Carcinogenicity studies of Estonian oil shale soots.", "content": "Several series of chronic experiments in white mice and white rats were carried out in order to determine the carcinogenicity of Estonian oil shale soot as well as the soot from oil shale fuel oil. All the investigated samples of soot showed a relatively low (from 14 to 1200 ppm) benzo(a)pyrene content. The benzene extract of oil shale soot, painted on the skin of white mice, proved to be strongly carcinogenic: in most of the animals skin tumors developed. The benzene extract of shale fuel oil exerted a considerably weaker carcinogenic action than the extract of soot of solid shale. The effect of oil shale soots as well as of tars extracted from oil shale soot on the bronchial mucosa and lung respiratory tissue was studied in white rats. Lung tumors were induced in a considerable number of cases in a series of experiments, where the tarry material from solid fuel soot, containing 1070 ppm benzo(a)pyrene, as a suspension in an aqueous solution of Tween 40, was administered by repeated intratracheal instillation. Lung tumor incidence among various control and experimental groups of rats is presented. The peculiarities of oil shale combustion are described.", "contents": "Carcinogenicity studies of Estonian oil shale soots. Several series of chronic experiments in white mice and white rats were carried out in order to determine the carcinogenicity of Estonian oil shale soot as well as the soot from oil shale fuel oil. All the investigated samples of soot showed a relatively low (from 14 to 1200 ppm) benzo(a)pyrene content. The benzene extract of oil shale soot, painted on the skin of white mice, proved to be strongly carcinogenic: in most of the animals skin tumors developed. The benzene extract of shale fuel oil exerted a considerably weaker carcinogenic action than the extract of soot of solid shale. The effect of oil shale soots as well as of tars extracted from oil shale soot on the bronchial mucosa and lung respiratory tissue was studied in white rats. Lung tumors were induced in a considerable number of cases in a series of experiments, where the tarry material from solid fuel soot, containing 1070 ppm benzo(a)pyrene, as a suspension in an aqueous solution of Tween 40, was administered by repeated intratracheal instillation. Lung tumor incidence among various control and experimental groups of rats is presented. The peculiarities of oil shale combustion are described.", "PMID": 446448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7576", "title": "Cocarcinogenicity of phenols from Estonian shale tars (oils).", "content": "Many phenols have carcinogenic activity. The Estonian shale oils contain up to 40 vol % phenols. The promoting activity after initiation of phenols of Estonian shale oils was tested in mice with a single subthreshold dose (0.36 mg) of benzo(a)pyrene. C57Bl and CC57Br mice were used in skin painting experiments. Weak carcinogenic activity was found in the total crude water-soluble phenols recovered from the wastewater of a shale processing plant. In two-stage experiments a clear promoting action of the total crude phenols was established, whereas the fractions A and B (training reagents), obtained by selective crystallization of the total phenols exerted a considerably weaker promoting action. Epo-glue, a commercial epoxy product produced from unfractionated crude phenols, had no promoting activity, which may be due to the processing of the phenols involving polymerization. The mechanism of action of phenols is not clear. According to some data from the literature, phenol and 5-methylresorcinol reduce the resorption speed of BP in mouse skin, causing prolongation of the action fo the carcinogen.", "contents": "Cocarcinogenicity of phenols from Estonian shale tars (oils). Many phenols have carcinogenic activity. The Estonian shale oils contain up to 40 vol % phenols. The promoting activity after initiation of phenols of Estonian shale oils was tested in mice with a single subthreshold dose (0.36 mg) of benzo(a)pyrene. C57Bl and CC57Br mice were used in skin painting experiments. Weak carcinogenic activity was found in the total crude water-soluble phenols recovered from the wastewater of a shale processing plant. In two-stage experiments a clear promoting action of the total crude phenols was established, whereas the fractions A and B (training reagents), obtained by selective crystallization of the total phenols exerted a considerably weaker promoting action. Epo-glue, a commercial epoxy product produced from unfractionated crude phenols, had no promoting activity, which may be due to the processing of the phenols involving polymerization. The mechanism of action of phenols is not clear. According to some data from the literature, phenol and 5-methylresorcinol reduce the resorption speed of BP in mouse skin, causing prolongation of the action fo the carcinogen.", "PMID": 446449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7577", "title": "Mutagenic and carcinogenic properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.", "content": "The rapid development of the chemical industry, combustion of fossil fuels, and smoking of tobacco have resulted in contact of the general population with benzo(a)pyrene and other carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons. Persons especially at risk occupationally are those engaged in thermal processing of oil shale, coal, and heavy residual petroleum. It has been shown that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons require metabolic activation before they can act as mutagens or carcinogens. This metabolic activation results from interaction with microsomal enzymes present in many body cells, yielding reactive epoxides which react with DNA and produce mutations in the count frame shift or participate in covalent bounding. While opinions differ regarding the relative role of these processes in mutagenesis, considerable evidence exists which links mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. Metabolites of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which are carcinogenic are usually mutagenic, which supports the hypothesis that damage to chromosomes plays an important role in carcinogenesis. These facts open the possibility to monitoring the spread of carcinogenic substances in the biosphere by relatively simple tests whose endpoint is mutagenesis.", "contents": "Mutagenic and carcinogenic properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The rapid development of the chemical industry, combustion of fossil fuels, and smoking of tobacco have resulted in contact of the general population with benzo(a)pyrene and other carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons. Persons especially at risk occupationally are those engaged in thermal processing of oil shale, coal, and heavy residual petroleum. It has been shown that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons require metabolic activation before they can act as mutagens or carcinogens. This metabolic activation results from interaction with microsomal enzymes present in many body cells, yielding reactive epoxides which react with DNA and produce mutations in the count frame shift or participate in covalent bounding. While opinions differ regarding the relative role of these processes in mutagenesis, considerable evidence exists which links mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. Metabolites of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which are carcinogenic are usually mutagenic, which supports the hypothesis that damage to chromosomes plays an important role in carcinogenesis. These facts open the possibility to monitoring the spread of carcinogenic substances in the biosphere by relatively simple tests whose endpoint is mutagenesis.", "PMID": 446450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7578", "title": "Predicting toxicometric parameters on the basis of studying the concentration--time dependence.", "content": "A short-time exposure on the concentration--time relationship base, a classification of substances according to the degree of hazard and the program for assessing safety coefficients have been suggested in order to predict the basic toxicometric parameters (chronic exposure thresholds, maximum allowable concentrations, safety coefficients, and others).", "contents": "Predicting toxicometric parameters on the basis of studying the concentration--time dependence. A short-time exposure on the concentration--time relationship base, a classification of substances according to the degree of hazard and the program for assessing safety coefficients have been suggested in order to predict the basic toxicometric parameters (chronic exposure thresholds, maximum allowable concentrations, safety coefficients, and others).", "PMID": 446451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7579", "title": "Morbidity and mortality study of shale oil workers in the United States.", "content": "The study of the carcinogenic potential of domestic U. S. shale oil has increased significantly in importance because of the present energy problem and resulting research into alternative sources of fuel. With the increased scope of planned oil shale activity on the Colorado Plateau, it is important that an attempt be made to determine the health effects, if any, of occupational exposure to shale oil. This paper briefly reviews some past work of Soviet and British investigators concerning potential health hazards of shale oil. It reviews the results and conclusions of the 1952-1955 dermatological study of oil shale workers by the U. S. Public Health Service, and it discusses in detail the plans of a NIOSH morbidity and mortality study currently under way.", "contents": "Morbidity and mortality study of shale oil workers in the United States. The study of the carcinogenic potential of domestic U. S. shale oil has increased significantly in importance because of the present energy problem and resulting research into alternative sources of fuel. With the increased scope of planned oil shale activity on the Colorado Plateau, it is important that an attempt be made to determine the health effects, if any, of occupational exposure to shale oil. This paper briefly reviews some past work of Soviet and British investigators concerning potential health hazards of shale oil. It reviews the results and conclusions of the 1952-1955 dermatological study of oil shale workers by the U. S. Public Health Service, and it discusses in detail the plans of a NIOSH morbidity and mortality study currently under way.", "PMID": 446452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7580", "title": "Cancer patterns in the oil shale area of the Estonian S.S.R.", "content": "Age-adjusted incidence rates of stomach, lung, and skin cancer among urban (1967-1972) and rural (1963-1972) population of four administrative districts in the Estonian S.S.R. have been presented. In the Kohtla-J\u00e4rve district (oil shale area) there was an excess of stomach and lung cancer. High rates of stomach cancer in towns and boroughs of oil shale area may be explained by migration. A great proportion of migrants comes from regions, where incidence rates are 1.6-2.5. times higher than among estonians. Elevated levels of stomach cancer incidence in rural areas of Kohtla-J\u00e4rva district remained unexplainable. In a retrospective cohort study of 2069 workers who had been exposed to oil shale products from 10 to 20 years an excess of skin cancer in females was found.", "contents": "Cancer patterns in the oil shale area of the Estonian S.S.R. Age-adjusted incidence rates of stomach, lung, and skin cancer among urban (1967-1972) and rural (1963-1972) population of four administrative districts in the Estonian S.S.R. have been presented. In the Kohtla-J\u00e4rve district (oil shale area) there was an excess of stomach and lung cancer. High rates of stomach cancer in towns and boroughs of oil shale area may be explained by migration. A great proportion of migrants comes from regions, where incidence rates are 1.6-2.5. times higher than among estonians. Elevated levels of stomach cancer incidence in rural areas of Kohtla-J\u00e4rva district remained unexplainable. In a retrospective cohort study of 2069 workers who had been exposed to oil shale products from 10 to 20 years an excess of skin cancer in females was found.", "PMID": 446453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7581", "title": "Processing use, and characterization of shale oil products.", "content": "Oil shale is a potential source of oil that will supplement conventional sources for oil as our needs for fossil fuels begin to exceed our supplies. The resource may be mined and processed on the surface or it may be processed in situ. An overview of the potential technologies and environmental issues is presented.", "contents": "Processing use, and characterization of shale oil products. Oil shale is a potential source of oil that will supplement conventional sources for oil as our needs for fossil fuels begin to exceed our supplies. The resource may be mined and processed on the surface or it may be processed in situ. An overview of the potential technologies and environmental issues is presented.", "PMID": 446454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7582", "title": "Influence of exposure mode on the toxicity of NO2.", "content": "Pollutant gases are subject to a variety of physical and chemical interactions within the atmosphere due to cyclic production and various meteorological influences. In consequence there is generally a diurnal concentration profile for NO2 which consists of peaks of short duration and irregular occurrence superimposed on a low background. Since this variation could play an important role in the toxic effect of NO2, the influences of various exposure modes was studied. Continuous and intermittent exposure studies were used to determine the relationship between biological response and length of exposure to various concentrations of NO2. As the concentration decreased, the slope of the regression line decreased. After adjusting for total differences in the product concentration x time, the response for the two exposure modes was essentially the same. When a constant concentration x time level was employed, a short-term exposure to a high concentration produced a greater effect than exposure to a lower concentration administered over a longer period. Using these curves, the relationship between level of effect, concentration, and time can be determined. Results of these studies indicated that the frequency and amplitude of short-term peaks are of significance even though the exposure is interrupted with periods of zero concentration of NO2.", "contents": "Influence of exposure mode on the toxicity of NO2. Pollutant gases are subject to a variety of physical and chemical interactions within the atmosphere due to cyclic production and various meteorological influences. In consequence there is generally a diurnal concentration profile for NO2 which consists of peaks of short duration and irregular occurrence superimposed on a low background. Since this variation could play an important role in the toxic effect of NO2, the influences of various exposure modes was studied. Continuous and intermittent exposure studies were used to determine the relationship between biological response and length of exposure to various concentrations of NO2. As the concentration decreased, the slope of the regression line decreased. After adjusting for total differences in the product concentration x time, the response for the two exposure modes was essentially the same. When a constant concentration x time level was employed, a short-term exposure to a high concentration produced a greater effect than exposure to a lower concentration administered over a longer period. Using these curves, the relationship between level of effect, concentration, and time can be determined. Results of these studies indicated that the frequency and amplitude of short-term peaks are of significance even though the exposure is interrupted with periods of zero concentration of NO2.", "PMID": 446455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7583", "title": "Experimental study of the mechanism and indices of harmful effects of certain chemical substances on the central nervous system.", "content": "The task of the second stage of Soviet-American cooperation on the problem of environmental health science was to explain the question of the comparative sensitivity of methods used in both countries, as well as the indices of harmful effects for the same toxic substance (carbon disulfide), with the purpose of determining the most informative methods of assessing the influence of atmospheric pollutants on organisms. The application of neurophysiological research methods (recording total electrical activity of the cortex and cortical structures of the brain, studying amplitude-time characteristics of averaged evoked potentials of the optical cortex, investigating sensory and convulsive thresholds) has made it possible to explain the neurophysiological basis of the effect of carbon disulfide on the central nervous system-the perturbation of cortical inhibition processes and the increase of excitation in amygdalate structures, both of which play an important role in the fixation process of temporary connection. The compilation of data from neurophysiological and neurochemical investigations show that neurophysiological changes are associated primarily with a decrease in enzymic breakdown of free neuraminic acid. The study of the average evoked potentials in humans during exposure to carbon disulfide concentrations of 0.09 mg/m(3) revealed a tendency to decrease the short latent amplitude components and increase the long latent amplitude components of the averaged evoked potentials. The study of operant behavior in rats revealed a characteristic change in the instrumental alimentary reactions under long-term (3 months) exposure of carbon disulfide to a concentration of 16 mg/m(3). IN THIS MANNER, THE FOLLOWING WERE DEVELOPED IN EXPERIMENTS WITH ANIMALS AND RESEARCH ON HUMANS: indices of the harmful effects of neurotropic toxic substances, a change in operant behavior, a decrease in the amplitude of total electrical activity, a change in time-amplitude parameters of evoked potentials, and a decrease in post-discharge convulsion thresholds in the cortical-medial nucleus of the amygdala. Neurophysiological and neurochemical research methods have proven to be the most sensitive and informative of the methods used. These criteria and methods are recommended for determining threshold levels of various neurotropic toxic substances which pollute the atmosphere.", "contents": "Experimental study of the mechanism and indices of harmful effects of certain chemical substances on the central nervous system. The task of the second stage of Soviet-American cooperation on the problem of environmental health science was to explain the question of the comparative sensitivity of methods used in both countries, as well as the indices of harmful effects for the same toxic substance (carbon disulfide), with the purpose of determining the most informative methods of assessing the influence of atmospheric pollutants on organisms. The application of neurophysiological research methods (recording total electrical activity of the cortex and cortical structures of the brain, studying amplitude-time characteristics of averaged evoked potentials of the optical cortex, investigating sensory and convulsive thresholds) has made it possible to explain the neurophysiological basis of the effect of carbon disulfide on the central nervous system-the perturbation of cortical inhibition processes and the increase of excitation in amygdalate structures, both of which play an important role in the fixation process of temporary connection. The compilation of data from neurophysiological and neurochemical investigations show that neurophysiological changes are associated primarily with a decrease in enzymic breakdown of free neuraminic acid. The study of the average evoked potentials in humans during exposure to carbon disulfide concentrations of 0.09 mg/m(3) revealed a tendency to decrease the short latent amplitude components and increase the long latent amplitude components of the averaged evoked potentials. The study of operant behavior in rats revealed a characteristic change in the instrumental alimentary reactions under long-term (3 months) exposure of carbon disulfide to a concentration of 16 mg/m(3). IN THIS MANNER, THE FOLLOWING WERE DEVELOPED IN EXPERIMENTS WITH ANIMALS AND RESEARCH ON HUMANS: indices of the harmful effects of neurotropic toxic substances, a change in operant behavior, a decrease in the amplitude of total electrical activity, a change in time-amplitude parameters of evoked potentials, and a decrease in post-discharge convulsion thresholds in the cortical-medial nucleus of the amygdala. Neurophysiological and neurochemical research methods have proven to be the most sensitive and informative of the methods used. These criteria and methods are recommended for determining threshold levels of various neurotropic toxic substances which pollute the atmosphere.", "PMID": 446456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7584", "title": "Experimental study of biological effects of leads and aluminum following oral administration.", "content": "A wide spectrum of the biological effects of lead and aluminum ions is noted during short-term and long-term oral administration to laboratory animals. The general toxic and gonadotoxic effects of these metals during a short-term experiment appeared to be identical, and the correlation of these effects was preserved during chronic experiments. Lead (0.03 mg/l.) and aluminum (0.5 mg/l.) concentrations in water may be dangerous to the health of the population, and hygienic standards are recommended for inclusion in the standard for drinking water quality.", "contents": "Experimental study of biological effects of leads and aluminum following oral administration. A wide spectrum of the biological effects of lead and aluminum ions is noted during short-term and long-term oral administration to laboratory animals. The general toxic and gonadotoxic effects of these metals during a short-term experiment appeared to be identical, and the correlation of these effects was preserved during chronic experiments. Lead (0.03 mg/l.) and aluminum (0.5 mg/l.) concentrations in water may be dangerous to the health of the population, and hygienic standards are recommended for inclusion in the standard for drinking water quality.", "PMID": 446457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7585", "title": "Assessment of environmental factors affecting male fertility.", "content": "Exposure to drinking water containing as much as 500 ppm aluminum chloride for periods of 30, 60, and 90 days had no apparent effect on male reproductive processes. In an attempt to correlate enzyme activity with particular spermatogenic cell types, postnatal development of testicular enzymes was studied. Eight enzymes were selected: hyaluronidase (H), lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-X (LDH-X), dehydrogenases of sorbitol (SDH), alpha-glycerophosphate (GPDH), glucose-6-phosphate (G6PDH), malate (MDH), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3PDH), and isocitrate (ICDH). Enzyme specific activities in testicular homogenates were determined. Two types of enzyme developmental patterns were observed. One was represented by H, LDH-X, SDH, and GPDH; and the other by G6PDH, MDH, G3PDH, and ICDH. The former was characterized by a change in enzyme activities from low in newborn to high in adult while in the latter this pattern was reversed. The two complementary enzyme systems crossed each other at puberty. Prior to puberty, only spermatogonial cells are present; sperm differentiation initiated at puberty adds spermatocytes and spermatids to the testicular cell population. Male rats were exposed to borax in their diet for periods of 30 and 60 days. Concentrations of boron were 0, 500, 1000, and 2000 ppm. At the end of each experimental period, the specific activities of the selected enzymes were determined in the testis and prostate. Correlations of enzyme activity with testicular histology and androgen activities of the male accessory organs were sought. In addition, plasma FSH, LH, and testosterone levels were measured to assess pituitary-testicular interaction. Plasma and testicular boron concentrations were determined and a minimum boron concentration which induced germinal aplasia and male infertility was estimated. In both 30 and 60 day feeding studies, male rats receiving 500 ppm failed to demonstrate any significant adverse effects. In contrast, male rats receiving 100 and 2000 ppm boron displayed a significant loss of germinal elements, although most of the Leydig and Sertoli cells appeared normal. Testicular atrophy was associated with a decrease in seminiferous tubular diameter and a marked reduction of spermatocytes and spermatogenic cells. These morphologic alterations were associated with a concomitant reduction of H, SDH, and LDH-X specific activities. In contrast, the specific activities of G3PDH and MDH were significantly elevated above control. The increase in these enzyme activities can be attributed to the relative enrichment of spermatogonial cells during the loss of spermatocytes and spermiogenic cells. Boron-induced male germinal aplasia was also associated with significantly elevated plasma FSH while plasma LH and testosterone levels were not significantly altered. Plasma testosterone levels were unaltered. Male fertility studies demonstrated that at the 500 ppm boron level, fertility was unaffected. However, at 1000 and 2000 ppm boron, male fertility was significantly reduced. Most effects were reversible within 5 weeks. However, the male group receiving 2000 ppm boron for 60 days remained sterile. There was no dose-related decrease in litter size or fetal death in utero. Therefore, the boron-induced infertility was apparently not due to a dominant lethal effect but rather to germinal aplasia. Boron appears toxic to spermatogenic cells at testicular concentrations of 6-8 ppm.", "contents": "Assessment of environmental factors affecting male fertility. Exposure to drinking water containing as much as 500 ppm aluminum chloride for periods of 30, 60, and 90 days had no apparent effect on male reproductive processes. In an attempt to correlate enzyme activity with particular spermatogenic cell types, postnatal development of testicular enzymes was studied. Eight enzymes were selected: hyaluronidase (H), lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-X (LDH-X), dehydrogenases of sorbitol (SDH), alpha-glycerophosphate (GPDH), glucose-6-phosphate (G6PDH), malate (MDH), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3PDH), and isocitrate (ICDH). Enzyme specific activities in testicular homogenates were determined. Two types of enzyme developmental patterns were observed. One was represented by H, LDH-X, SDH, and GPDH; and the other by G6PDH, MDH, G3PDH, and ICDH. The former was characterized by a change in enzyme activities from low in newborn to high in adult while in the latter this pattern was reversed. The two complementary enzyme systems crossed each other at puberty. Prior to puberty, only spermatogonial cells are present; sperm differentiation initiated at puberty adds spermatocytes and spermatids to the testicular cell population. Male rats were exposed to borax in their diet for periods of 30 and 60 days. Concentrations of boron were 0, 500, 1000, and 2000 ppm. At the end of each experimental period, the specific activities of the selected enzymes were determined in the testis and prostate. Correlations of enzyme activity with testicular histology and androgen activities of the male accessory organs were sought. In addition, plasma FSH, LH, and testosterone levels were measured to assess pituitary-testicular interaction. Plasma and testicular boron concentrations were determined and a minimum boron concentration which induced germinal aplasia and male infertility was estimated. In both 30 and 60 day feeding studies, male rats receiving 500 ppm failed to demonstrate any significant adverse effects. In contrast, male rats receiving 100 and 2000 ppm boron displayed a significant loss of germinal elements, although most of the Leydig and Sertoli cells appeared normal. Testicular atrophy was associated with a decrease in seminiferous tubular diameter and a marked reduction of spermatocytes and spermatogenic cells. These morphologic alterations were associated with a concomitant reduction of H, SDH, and LDH-X specific activities. In contrast, the specific activities of G3PDH and MDH were significantly elevated above control. The increase in these enzyme activities can be attributed to the relative enrichment of spermatogonial cells during the loss of spermatocytes and spermiogenic cells. Boron-induced male germinal aplasia was also associated with significantly elevated plasma FSH while plasma LH and testosterone levels were not significantly altered. Plasma testosterone levels were unaltered. Male fertility studies demonstrated that at the 500 ppm boron level, fertility was unaffected. However, at 1000 and 2000 ppm boron, male fertility was significantly reduced. Most effects were reversible within 5 weeks. However, the male group receiving 2000 ppm boron for 60 days remained sterile. There was no dose-related decrease in litter size or fetal death in utero. Therefore, the boron-induced infertility was apparently not due to a dominant lethal effect but rather to germinal aplasia. Boron appears toxic to spermatogenic cells at testicular concentrations of 6-8 ppm.", "PMID": 446458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7586", "title": "System of accelerating methods of evaluating toxicity and hazardous properties of substances.", "content": "By studying a group of organophosphorus compounds (PhOC), system of methods for developing models of chronic intoxication was approved, the purpose of which was to establish safe levels of chemical pollutants in the water. The magnitudes of threshold doses (TD) and ineffective doses (MID) were obtained by using MACrv (maximum admissible concentrations of substances in the air of industrial plants) and TLV [indices of admissible levels of substances in the air of industrial plants (USA standards)]. In compiling estimated and experimentally established MAC for 21 substances, variations were recorded within the range of 2-10 times. Forecasting on the basis of ED50, Elim and other measures during 5-20 day experiments made it possible to estimate threshold and inactive doses of PhOC during chronic intoxication, as well as to determine a cumulative coefficient and distribute these compounds into two series, according to the degree of their hazard. This project made it possible to determine cumulative properties simultaneously and forecast the chronic toxicity of the PhOC group under investigation.", "contents": "System of accelerating methods of evaluating toxicity and hazardous properties of substances. By studying a group of organophosphorus compounds (PhOC), system of methods for developing models of chronic intoxication was approved, the purpose of which was to establish safe levels of chemical pollutants in the water. The magnitudes of threshold doses (TD) and ineffective doses (MID) were obtained by using MACrv (maximum admissible concentrations of substances in the air of industrial plants) and TLV [indices of admissible levels of substances in the air of industrial plants (USA standards)]. In compiling estimated and experimentally established MAC for 21 substances, variations were recorded within the range of 2-10 times. Forecasting on the basis of ED50, Elim and other measures during 5-20 day experiments made it possible to estimate threshold and inactive doses of PhOC during chronic intoxication, as well as to determine a cumulative coefficient and distribute these compounds into two series, according to the degree of their hazard. This project made it possible to determine cumulative properties simultaneously and forecast the chronic toxicity of the PhOC group under investigation.", "PMID": 446459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7587", "title": "Some physical factors in toxicological assessment tests.", "content": "Many thousand organic compounds are in common use and new ones introduced daily. With many of these materials, little is known about their toxic hazard. For years scientists have been investigating the relation of structure and properties to biological activity. Among the factors relating to toxicity are bioaccumulation and persistence in the organism. In this study, the relation of partition coefficient and solubility to bioaccumulation of some organochlorine compounds was investigated as was also the reactivity of several organophosphates. The work adds confirmation to the relation of molecular parameters to penetration, accumulation, and persistence in toxic action.", "contents": "Some physical factors in toxicological assessment tests. Many thousand organic compounds are in common use and new ones introduced daily. With many of these materials, little is known about their toxic hazard. For years scientists have been investigating the relation of structure and properties to biological activity. Among the factors relating to toxicity are bioaccumulation and persistence in the organism. In this study, the relation of partition coefficient and solubility to bioaccumulation of some organochlorine compounds was investigated as was also the reactivity of several organophosphates. The work adds confirmation to the relation of molecular parameters to penetration, accumulation, and persistence in toxic action.", "PMID": 446460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7588", "title": "Approaches to the formulation of standards for carcinogenic substances in the environment.", "content": "After having agreed that standards are necessary for carcinogens that cannot be completely eliminated from the environment, two exchange groups in the U.S.S.R.-U.S. Cooperative present their different approaches to the problem. The Russian groups has recommended a benzypyrene standard of 0.1 microgram/100m3 of atmospheric air over populated regions and gives its experimental basis and theoretical rationale in the first part of this joint paper. Lifetime experiments in adult rats over a wide range of dose levels permit the determination of a largest ineffective dose level with respect the theoretical time of first tumor as well as incidence. The standard is set by extrapolation based on body weight and uses a safety factor of 10 to account for the additional susceptibility in embryogenesis and childhood. The U. S. group presents a mathematical model of time-to-tumor occurrence which permits the prediction of population incidence and life span shortening from time-to-tumor data in animals or man. It assumes the distribution of mortality-corrected time to tumor is lognormal with the nth power of time inversely proportional to dose and with dose independence of the variability of the logarithm of time to tumor. The prediction is made by combining this distribution, fitted to the data, with population mortality tables. Both groups emphasize that substantial research efforts are necessary to improve the scientific basis for setting standards.", "contents": "Approaches to the formulation of standards for carcinogenic substances in the environment. After having agreed that standards are necessary for carcinogens that cannot be completely eliminated from the environment, two exchange groups in the U.S.S.R.-U.S. Cooperative present their different approaches to the problem. The Russian groups has recommended a benzypyrene standard of 0.1 microgram/100m3 of atmospheric air over populated regions and gives its experimental basis and theoretical rationale in the first part of this joint paper. Lifetime experiments in adult rats over a wide range of dose levels permit the determination of a largest ineffective dose level with respect the theoretical time of first tumor as well as incidence. The standard is set by extrapolation based on body weight and uses a safety factor of 10 to account for the additional susceptibility in embryogenesis and childhood. The U. S. group presents a mathematical model of time-to-tumor occurrence which permits the prediction of population incidence and life span shortening from time-to-tumor data in animals or man. It assumes the distribution of mortality-corrected time to tumor is lognormal with the nth power of time inversely proportional to dose and with dose independence of the variability of the logarithm of time to tumor. The prediction is made by combining this distribution, fitted to the data, with population mortality tables. Both groups emphasize that substantial research efforts are necessary to improve the scientific basis for setting standards.", "PMID": 446461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7589", "title": "Combined exposure to ozone and nitrogen dioxide.", "content": "A study of rats acutely exposed to ozone (0.5--2.0 ppm) or nitrogen dioxide (2--20 ppm) for 2 hr and sacrificed immediately thereafter shows little similarity in the individual biochemical effects of these pollutants. No evidence of nitrogen dioxide-induced lipid peroxidation was observed. Of interest is the finding that inhalation of nitrogen dioxide increases the extent to which concanavalin A agglutinates alveolar macrophages while ozone has exactly the opposite effect.", "contents": "Combined exposure to ozone and nitrogen dioxide. A study of rats acutely exposed to ozone (0.5--2.0 ppm) or nitrogen dioxide (2--20 ppm) for 2 hr and sacrificed immediately thereafter shows little similarity in the individual biochemical effects of these pollutants. No evidence of nitrogen dioxide-induced lipid peroxidation was observed. Of interest is the finding that inhalation of nitrogen dioxide increases the extent to which concanavalin A agglutinates alveolar macrophages while ozone has exactly the opposite effect.", "PMID": 446462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7590", "title": "Study of some biological indices of the state of the sympathoadrenaline system under the effect of polychlorocamphene.", "content": "The effect of exposure to different amounts of polychlorocamphene (toxaphene) on the level of cathecholamines (noradrenalin and adrenalin), their precursors (DOPA and dophamine), and a metabolite (vanillylmandelic acid) in tissues (adrenals, brain, heart) and daily urine in white male rats has been studied. It was established that the single administration of 120 mg/kg toxaphene (half the LD50) as well as 2.4 mg/kg (1/100 of LD50) for 1 and 3 months produced a disturbance of catecholamine metabolism. The absolute level of ratio of separate components of the sympathicoadrenalic system is unequally changed in tissues, the breakdown of catecholamines is increased, and the specificity of their excretion is destroyed.", "contents": "Study of some biological indices of the state of the sympathoadrenaline system under the effect of polychlorocamphene. The effect of exposure to different amounts of polychlorocamphene (toxaphene) on the level of cathecholamines (noradrenalin and adrenalin), their precursors (DOPA and dophamine), and a metabolite (vanillylmandelic acid) in tissues (adrenals, brain, heart) and daily urine in white male rats has been studied. It was established that the single administration of 120 mg/kg toxaphene (half the LD50) as well as 2.4 mg/kg (1/100 of LD50) for 1 and 3 months produced a disturbance of catecholamine metabolism. The absolute level of ratio of separate components of the sympathicoadrenalic system is unequally changed in tissues, the breakdown of catecholamines is increased, and the specificity of their excretion is destroyed.", "PMID": 446464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7591", "title": "Effect of toxaphene on pyruvic and lactic acid levels in the rat.", "content": "Rats were given a single dose of toxaphene (120 mg/kg equilavent to 1/2 LD50) and sacrificed at 1, 5, and 15 days. No alterations of levels of pyruvic or lactic acid in blood plasma were observed. In a second experiment, rats were given 2.4 mg/kg daily and sacrificed at 1, 3, and 6 months, and again no alterations of pyruvic or lactic acid levels were found. It is concluded that observed alterations of the activity of lactic acid dehydrogenase induced by toxaphene do not give rise to physiological changes in unstressed rats.", "contents": "Effect of toxaphene on pyruvic and lactic acid levels in the rat. Rats were given a single dose of toxaphene (120 mg/kg equilavent to 1/2 LD50) and sacrificed at 1, 5, and 15 days. No alterations of levels of pyruvic or lactic acid in blood plasma were observed. In a second experiment, rats were given 2.4 mg/kg daily and sacrificed at 1, 3, and 6 months, and again no alterations of pyruvic or lactic acid levels were found. It is concluded that observed alterations of the activity of lactic acid dehydrogenase induced by toxaphene do not give rise to physiological changes in unstressed rats.", "PMID": 446465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7592", "title": "Frequency and amplitude analysis of the EMG during exercise on the bicycle ergometer.", "content": "The surface EMG was recorded from above the quadriceps muscle in 3 male subjects during bicycle ergometry at work loads between 20 and 100% of the VO2 max to measure the EMG amplitude (RMS) and frequency (assessed from the center frequency of the power spectra) during this type of work. During brief (3 min) bouts of work the RMS amplitude of the EMG was linearly related to the work load; the center frequency of the EMG power spectra was the same at all work loads examined. In contrast, during sustained bouts of work maintained for 80 min at 20 and 40% of the VO2 max, the RMS amplitude of the EMG remained constant while the center frequency initially increased for the first 20 min of work and then progressively decreased as the work continued. When work loads of 60, 80, and 100% of the VO2 max were sustained to fatigue, the RMS amplitude continually increased while the EMG frequency decreased from the beginning to the end of the work periods. The results of this study showed that the EMG is a complex waveform, being influenced not only by fatigue, but to even a larger extent in many cases, the temperature of the exercising muscles. Therefore, although muscular fatigue caused an increase in the RMS amplitude and decrease in the center frequency, the increase in muscle temperature associated with the work opposed these changes by causing a reduction in the RMS amplitude and an increase in the center frequency.", "contents": "Frequency and amplitude analysis of the EMG during exercise on the bicycle ergometer. The surface EMG was recorded from above the quadriceps muscle in 3 male subjects during bicycle ergometry at work loads between 20 and 100% of the VO2 max to measure the EMG amplitude (RMS) and frequency (assessed from the center frequency of the power spectra) during this type of work. During brief (3 min) bouts of work the RMS amplitude of the EMG was linearly related to the work load; the center frequency of the EMG power spectra was the same at all work loads examined. In contrast, during sustained bouts of work maintained for 80 min at 20 and 40% of the VO2 max, the RMS amplitude of the EMG remained constant while the center frequency initially increased for the first 20 min of work and then progressively decreased as the work continued. When work loads of 60, 80, and 100% of the VO2 max were sustained to fatigue, the RMS amplitude continually increased while the EMG frequency decreased from the beginning to the end of the work periods. The results of this study showed that the EMG is a complex waveform, being influenced not only by fatigue, but to even a larger extent in many cases, the temperature of the exercising muscles. Therefore, although muscular fatigue caused an increase in the RMS amplitude and decrease in the center frequency, the increase in muscle temperature associated with the work opposed these changes by causing a reduction in the RMS amplitude and an increase in the center frequency.", "PMID": 446467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7593", "title": "Muscular fatigue and rate of tension development.", "content": "The effects of long-term fatigue upon maximal force and peak rate of tension development (PRTD) (dF/dt max) are studied in man (elbow flexors), in the rat (pseudo-isolated gastrocnemius muscle) and in the frog (isolated sartorius muscle). The muscles are fatigued by voluntary anisometric anisotonic contractions against an elastic resistance in man, and by maximal tetanic contractions in the frog and the rat. In man, the excitation level of the muscle is controlled by the integrated surface EMG of the biceps brachii. In the animals, the muscles are stimulated by a neurostimulator. The PRTD and the maximal isometric force are measured during fatigue tests. In man, frog and rat, the maximal voluntary isometric torque or the maximal force and the PRTD decrease initially more or less rapidly according to the power developed during the fatigue process, and then less rapidly. The relationship between PRTD and maximal force is linear in the animals and curvilinear in man. The variations of maximal force and PRTD are discussed in relation to the level of excitation of the muscles and of the composition in different motor units types and their spatio-temporal recruitment. From a biomechanical point of view, it seems necessary to study the behavior of the series elastic component during the evolution of long term fatigue.", "contents": "Muscular fatigue and rate of tension development. The effects of long-term fatigue upon maximal force and peak rate of tension development (PRTD) (dF/dt max) are studied in man (elbow flexors), in the rat (pseudo-isolated gastrocnemius muscle) and in the frog (isolated sartorius muscle). The muscles are fatigued by voluntary anisometric anisotonic contractions against an elastic resistance in man, and by maximal tetanic contractions in the frog and the rat. In man, the excitation level of the muscle is controlled by the integrated surface EMG of the biceps brachii. In the animals, the muscles are stimulated by a neurostimulator. The PRTD and the maximal isometric force are measured during fatigue tests. In man, frog and rat, the maximal voluntary isometric torque or the maximal force and the PRTD decrease initially more or less rapidly according to the power developed during the fatigue process, and then less rapidly. The relationship between PRTD and maximal force is linear in the animals and curvilinear in man. The variations of maximal force and PRTD are discussed in relation to the level of excitation of the muscles and of the composition in different motor units types and their spatio-temporal recruitment. From a biomechanical point of view, it seems necessary to study the behavior of the series elastic component during the evolution of long term fatigue.", "PMID": 446468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7594", "title": "Optimal hematocrit for canine skeletal muscle during rhythmic isotonic exercise.", "content": "Contractile power, blood flow, O2-uptake, and O2-extraction during isotonic, rhythmic exercise were determined in the isolated canine gastrocnemius muscle during perfusion with blood with hematocrits between 0.21 and 0.81. The results obtained in 36 measurements on nine muscles showed that maximal O2-delivery to the muscle if found at hematocrits between 0.5 and 0.6. Both in the range of hemodilution, and in the range of extreme hemoconcentration, O2-delivery decreases significantly. O2-consumption and contractile power of the muscles are almost unaffected in the hematocrit range between 0.4 and 0.7; beyond and below this hematocrit range both parameters decrease. O2-extraction is virtually constant in the hematocrit range between 0.3 and 0.6, but increase both below and above these hematocrit levels. It is concluded that due to reduced vasodilatory reserve in working skeletal muscle compared to resting muscle the optimal hematocrit is shifted to higher values.", "contents": "Optimal hematocrit for canine skeletal muscle during rhythmic isotonic exercise. Contractile power, blood flow, O2-uptake, and O2-extraction during isotonic, rhythmic exercise were determined in the isolated canine gastrocnemius muscle during perfusion with blood with hematocrits between 0.21 and 0.81. The results obtained in 36 measurements on nine muscles showed that maximal O2-delivery to the muscle if found at hematocrits between 0.5 and 0.6. Both in the range of hemodilution, and in the range of extreme hemoconcentration, O2-delivery decreases significantly. O2-consumption and contractile power of the muscles are almost unaffected in the hematocrit range between 0.4 and 0.7; beyond and below this hematocrit range both parameters decrease. O2-extraction is virtually constant in the hematocrit range between 0.3 and 0.6, but increase both below and above these hematocrit levels. It is concluded that due to reduced vasodilatory reserve in working skeletal muscle compared to resting muscle the optimal hematocrit is shifted to higher values.", "PMID": 446469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7595", "title": "Plasma aldosterone, renin activity, and cortisol responses to heat exposure in sodium depleted and repeleted subjects.", "content": "The effect of 90-min heat exposure (46 degrees C, 35 mbar) on plasma aldosterone (PA) patterns was studied and the respective roles of plasma renin activity (PRA), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), Na+ and K+ concentrations in the control of PA response were in investigated in eight subjects on a low sodium diet and in five subjects on a high sodium diet. In all subjects, transitory PA increases of varying importance were observed, which were not related to sweat losses (less than 1% bodyweight) or to rectal temperature rise. In sodium-repleted subjects, basal PA and PRA levels as well as heat-induced rises were low (mean PA peak level = 12.62 +/- 1.15 ng/100 ml). They were enhanced by sodium depletion and PA reached a mean peak level of 34.07 +/- 2.73 ng/100 ml. But, in both conditions, the heat-induced PA peaks were 3-times higher than the initial levels. PA correlated with PRA in all but one of the sodium-repleted subjects and in 6 of the 8 sodium-depleted subjects. ACTH release, as measured by plasma cortisol (PC) levels, occurred in those subjects who noted an increased feeling of annoyance and discomfort. Thus, PA correlated positively with PC in 4 sodium-depleted subjects. A high sodium intake improved heat-tolerance. Plasma K+ and Na+ concentrations were not significantly modified by exposure to heat. PA increases can occur without concomitant changes in PRA, PC, K+ or Na+, which suggests that an additional factor may play a role in aldosterone regulation during acute heat exposure.", "contents": "Plasma aldosterone, renin activity, and cortisol responses to heat exposure in sodium depleted and repeleted subjects. The effect of 90-min heat exposure (46 degrees C, 35 mbar) on plasma aldosterone (PA) patterns was studied and the respective roles of plasma renin activity (PRA), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), Na+ and K+ concentrations in the control of PA response were in investigated in eight subjects on a low sodium diet and in five subjects on a high sodium diet. In all subjects, transitory PA increases of varying importance were observed, which were not related to sweat losses (less than 1% bodyweight) or to rectal temperature rise. In sodium-repleted subjects, basal PA and PRA levels as well as heat-induced rises were low (mean PA peak level = 12.62 +/- 1.15 ng/100 ml). They were enhanced by sodium depletion and PA reached a mean peak level of 34.07 +/- 2.73 ng/100 ml. But, in both conditions, the heat-induced PA peaks were 3-times higher than the initial levels. PA correlated with PRA in all but one of the sodium-repleted subjects and in 6 of the 8 sodium-depleted subjects. ACTH release, as measured by plasma cortisol (PC) levels, occurred in those subjects who noted an increased feeling of annoyance and discomfort. Thus, PA correlated positively with PC in 4 sodium-depleted subjects. A high sodium intake improved heat-tolerance. Plasma K+ and Na+ concentrations were not significantly modified by exposure to heat. PA increases can occur without concomitant changes in PRA, PC, K+ or Na+, which suggests that an additional factor may play a role in aldosterone regulation during acute heat exposure.", "PMID": 446470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7596", "title": "Metabolic response to heavy physical exercise before and after a 3-month training period.", "content": "Twenty healthy athletes performed a heavy physical exercise before and after a controlled training period of 3 months. As a result of physical training there was a reduction in lactate concentration during and after exercise. Plasma free fatty acids and triglyceride levels were lower at rest as well as during and after exercise. Insulin concentrations decreased during exercise before the training period whereas they remained constant afterwards. The composition of individual free fatty acids changed in the same way during exercise before and after training: fatty acids with shorter hydrocarbon chains increased, those with longer chains decreased. Comparing the pattern of individual free fatty acids before and after training a higher percentage of saturated and a lower percentage of mono-unsaturated fatty acids was observed. It is concluded that changes in the plasma free fatty acid profile during heavy exercise reflect a preferential uptake and oxidation of certain individual free fatty acids. The significance of training-induced changes in the plasma free fatty acid pattern is discussed.", "contents": "Metabolic response to heavy physical exercise before and after a 3-month training period. Twenty healthy athletes performed a heavy physical exercise before and after a controlled training period of 3 months. As a result of physical training there was a reduction in lactate concentration during and after exercise. Plasma free fatty acids and triglyceride levels were lower at rest as well as during and after exercise. Insulin concentrations decreased during exercise before the training period whereas they remained constant afterwards. The composition of individual free fatty acids changed in the same way during exercise before and after training: fatty acids with shorter hydrocarbon chains increased, those with longer chains decreased. Comparing the pattern of individual free fatty acids before and after training a higher percentage of saturated and a lower percentage of mono-unsaturated fatty acids was observed. It is concluded that changes in the plasma free fatty acid profile during heavy exercise reflect a preferential uptake and oxidation of certain individual free fatty acids. The significance of training-induced changes in the plasma free fatty acid pattern is discussed.", "PMID": 446471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7597", "title": "Biochemical changes in a 100 km run: free amino acids, urea, and creatinine.", "content": "Free amino acids, urea, and creatinine were analyzed in venous blood and urine of 11 trained (28--81 years old) male subjects before, immediately after, and 1 day after a 100 km running competition. The urinary excretion per minute of all amino acids was lowered after the contest. The renal clearance of creatinine was reduced from 116 to 60 ml/min and the clearance of most amino acids was reduced to a similar extent. However, for the amino acids with a resting clearance under 1 ml/min (x), a high relative clearance ratio (y in % of x) was seen post-exercise: y = -92.3 (log10 x) +23.1, r = -0.83, showing that their high reabsorption capacity had been impaired. Serum concentrations of most free amino acids, including the branched-chain amino acids and alanine, were reduced to 35--85% of the pre-race values. The sulfur amino acids were elevated either at the end of (cystine, to 180%) or 24 h after (methionine, to 155%) the race. Urea production increased by 44% while creatinine production tended to decrease. The production of 3-methylhistidine remained unchanged. These findings are compatible with a stimulation of gluconegenesis at the expense of the amino acid pool without induction of muscle protein catabolism.", "contents": "Biochemical changes in a 100 km run: free amino acids, urea, and creatinine. Free amino acids, urea, and creatinine were analyzed in venous blood and urine of 11 trained (28--81 years old) male subjects before, immediately after, and 1 day after a 100 km running competition. The urinary excretion per minute of all amino acids was lowered after the contest. The renal clearance of creatinine was reduced from 116 to 60 ml/min and the clearance of most amino acids was reduced to a similar extent. However, for the amino acids with a resting clearance under 1 ml/min (x), a high relative clearance ratio (y in % of x) was seen post-exercise: y = -92.3 (log10 x) +23.1, r = -0.83, showing that their high reabsorption capacity had been impaired. Serum concentrations of most free amino acids, including the branched-chain amino acids and alanine, were reduced to 35--85% of the pre-race values. The sulfur amino acids were elevated either at the end of (cystine, to 180%) or 24 h after (methionine, to 155%) the race. Urea production increased by 44% while creatinine production tended to decrease. The production of 3-methylhistidine remained unchanged. These findings are compatible with a stimulation of gluconegenesis at the expense of the amino acid pool without induction of muscle protein catabolism.", "PMID": 446472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7598", "title": "Cathepsin D of rat spleen. Affinity purification and properties of two types of cathepsin D.", "content": "Two types of cathepsin D were purified from rat spleen by a rapid procedure involving an acid precipitation of tissue extract, affinity chromatography with pepstatin--Sepharose 4B and concanavalin-A--Sepharose 4B, and chromatography on Sephadex G-100 and DEAE-Sephacel. The purified major enzyme (85% of the cathepsin D activity after DEAE-Sephacel chromatography), termed cathepsin D-I, represented about a 1000-fold purification over the homogenate and about a 20% recovery. The purified minor enzyme (15%), termed cathepsin D-II, represented about a 900-fold purification and about a 3% recovery. Both enzymes showed four (pI: 4.2, 4.9, 6.1 and 6.5) and three (pI: 4.6, 5.6 and 5.8) multiple forms after isoelectric focusing, respectively. The purified enzymes appeared homogeneous on electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel and had a molecular weight of about 44000. In sodium dodecylsulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis both enzymes showed a single protein band corresponding to a molecular weight of 44000. The enzymes had similar amino acid compositions except for serine, proline and methionine. Cathepsin D-I contained 6.6% carbohydrate, consisting of mannose, glucose, galactose, fucose and glucosamine in a ratio of 8:2:1:1:5 with a trace of sialic acid. The properties of purified enzymes were also compared.", "contents": "Cathepsin D of rat spleen. Affinity purification and properties of two types of cathepsin D. Two types of cathepsin D were purified from rat spleen by a rapid procedure involving an acid precipitation of tissue extract, affinity chromatography with pepstatin--Sepharose 4B and concanavalin-A--Sepharose 4B, and chromatography on Sephadex G-100 and DEAE-Sephacel. The purified major enzyme (85% of the cathepsin D activity after DEAE-Sephacel chromatography), termed cathepsin D-I, represented about a 1000-fold purification over the homogenate and about a 20% recovery. The purified minor enzyme (15%), termed cathepsin D-II, represented about a 900-fold purification and about a 3% recovery. Both enzymes showed four (pI: 4.2, 4.9, 6.1 and 6.5) and three (pI: 4.6, 5.6 and 5.8) multiple forms after isoelectric focusing, respectively. The purified enzymes appeared homogeneous on electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel and had a molecular weight of about 44000. In sodium dodecylsulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis both enzymes showed a single protein band corresponding to a molecular weight of 44000. The enzymes had similar amino acid compositions except for serine, proline and methionine. Cathepsin D-I contained 6.6% carbohydrate, consisting of mannose, glucose, galactose, fucose and glucosamine in a ratio of 8:2:1:1:5 with a trace of sialic acid. The properties of purified enzymes were also compared.", "PMID": 446474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7599", "title": "Fatty-acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. 1. Medium-chain fatty-acid synthesis.", "content": "Tissue slices from lactating goat-mammary gland synthesized short (C4:0 and C6:0), medium (C8:0 and C10:0) and long-chain (C12:0 to C16:0) fatty acids in proportions similar to that found in goat milk fat. In contrast, the particle-free supernatant fraction and the purified fatty acid synthetase from this tissue synthesized predominantly short-chain and long-chain fatty acids. Terminating acyl-thioesterases of low molecular weight could not be detected in the particle-free supernatant. Addition of the microsomal fraction to the particle-free supernatant induced the synthesis of medium-chain fatty acids in proportions which were similar to those found in goat milk fat.", "contents": "Fatty-acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. 1. Medium-chain fatty-acid synthesis. Tissue slices from lactating goat-mammary gland synthesized short (C4:0 and C6:0), medium (C8:0 and C10:0) and long-chain (C12:0 to C16:0) fatty acids in proportions similar to that found in goat milk fat. In contrast, the particle-free supernatant fraction and the purified fatty acid synthetase from this tissue synthesized predominantly short-chain and long-chain fatty acids. Terminating acyl-thioesterases of low molecular weight could not be detected in the particle-free supernatant. Addition of the microsomal fraction to the particle-free supernatant induced the synthesis of medium-chain fatty acids in proportions which were similar to those found in goat milk fat.", "PMID": 446475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7600", "title": "Fatty-acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. 2. Medium-chain fatty acid synthesis.", "content": "Addition of goat, rat, rabbit and cow mammary microsomal fraction to fatty acid synthetase of goat mammary gland induced C10 fatty acid synthesis. When the microsomal fractions from rat, rabbit and cow mammary gland were incubated with their respective fatty acid synthetases only the cow enzyme synthesized significant amounts of C10 compared to the purified fatty acid synthetases alone. The goat mammary microsomal fraction was not able to induce C10 synthesis by rat and rabbit mammary-gland fatty acid synthetase, but only by the goat and cow enzyme. Both goat and cow mammary-gland fatty acid synthetase have in contrast to the rabbit and rat enzymes the ability to hydrolyse medium-chain acyl-thioesters. We therefore suggest a novel mechanism for medium-chain fatty acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. This mechanism involves an activation of the medium-chain acyl-thioester hydrolase within the fatty acid synthetase of goat mammary gland by an unknown microsomal factor.", "contents": "Fatty-acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. 2. Medium-chain fatty acid synthesis. Addition of goat, rat, rabbit and cow mammary microsomal fraction to fatty acid synthetase of goat mammary gland induced C10 fatty acid synthesis. When the microsomal fractions from rat, rabbit and cow mammary gland were incubated with their respective fatty acid synthetases only the cow enzyme synthesized significant amounts of C10 compared to the purified fatty acid synthetases alone. The goat mammary microsomal fraction was not able to induce C10 synthesis by rat and rabbit mammary-gland fatty acid synthetase, but only by the goat and cow enzyme. Both goat and cow mammary-gland fatty acid synthetase have in contrast to the rabbit and rat enzymes the ability to hydrolyse medium-chain acyl-thioesters. We therefore suggest a novel mechanism for medium-chain fatty acid synthesis in lactating-goat mammary gland. This mechanism involves an activation of the medium-chain acyl-thioester hydrolase within the fatty acid synthetase of goat mammary gland by an unknown microsomal factor.", "PMID": 446476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7601", "title": "Characterization of the isoenzymes of pig-liver esterase. 1. Chemical Studies.", "content": "Three different subunits of highly purified pig liver esterase (EC 3.1.1.1) can be separated by analytical dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis, though their relative mobilities are very similar. The same subunit bands are obtained with microsomes, in which the esterases have been labeled with the specific active-site-directed inhibitor bis(4-nitro-[14C]phenyl)phosphate. The heterogeneity of the native trimeric enzyme is much more complex, as is demonstrated by isoelectric focussing and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Fractions of esterase which were partially separated by preparative isoelectric focussing show differences in their subunit composition, their amino acid analyses, their tryptic peptide maps, and their C-terminal amino acids. From these experiments various features of the differing esterase subunits can be deduced. Based on the chemical results and on various experiments which did not indicate any secondary modification of the protein side-chains, the molecular basis of the esterase heterogeneity is discussed. We conclude that the native trimeric esterase is a mixture of numerous hybrids of at least three protein subunits with differing but closely related primary sequences. A comparison of the relative specificity of various preparations of pig liver microsomes indicates that genetic differences concerning the composition of liver esterase exist between individuals.", "contents": "Characterization of the isoenzymes of pig-liver esterase. 1. Chemical Studies. Three different subunits of highly purified pig liver esterase (EC 3.1.1.1) can be separated by analytical dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis, though their relative mobilities are very similar. The same subunit bands are obtained with microsomes, in which the esterases have been labeled with the specific active-site-directed inhibitor bis(4-nitro-[14C]phenyl)phosphate. The heterogeneity of the native trimeric enzyme is much more complex, as is demonstrated by isoelectric focussing and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Fractions of esterase which were partially separated by preparative isoelectric focussing show differences in their subunit composition, their amino acid analyses, their tryptic peptide maps, and their C-terminal amino acids. From these experiments various features of the differing esterase subunits can be deduced. Based on the chemical results and on various experiments which did not indicate any secondary modification of the protein side-chains, the molecular basis of the esterase heterogeneity is discussed. We conclude that the native trimeric esterase is a mixture of numerous hybrids of at least three protein subunits with differing but closely related primary sequences. A comparison of the relative specificity of various preparations of pig liver microsomes indicates that genetic differences concerning the composition of liver esterase exist between individuals.", "PMID": 446477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7602", "title": "beta-Like globin RNA sequences in hemoglobin Lepore disease.", "content": "A Southern Italian patient homozygous for hemoglobin Lepore disease synthesizes approximately 3% Lepore delta beta-globin chains (relative to alpha chains) in the reticulocytes. Measurement of beta-like RNA sequences by hybridization to complementary DNA specific for beta-globin demonstrates a low level (1--2% relative to alpha sequences) of these sequences in cytoplasmic RNA from reticulocytes or spleen cells, suggesting that the Lepore gene is expressed into mRNA at a lower extent than normal alpha or beta genes; the comparison with the level of beta-like sequences found in nuclear RNA (6--8%) further supports this conclusion and indicates, in addition, that Lepore RNA might be degraded at a faster rate than normal. 2--3% beta-like sequences are found in nuclear RNA in three cases of homozygous beta0-thalassemia, setting the highest possible estimate for the delta-RNA level; this figure suggests that the 'delta-promoter'-dependent Lepore delta beta gene is somehow more actively expressed than the delta gene.", "contents": "beta-Like globin RNA sequences in hemoglobin Lepore disease. A Southern Italian patient homozygous for hemoglobin Lepore disease synthesizes approximately 3% Lepore delta beta-globin chains (relative to alpha chains) in the reticulocytes. Measurement of beta-like RNA sequences by hybridization to complementary DNA specific for beta-globin demonstrates a low level (1--2% relative to alpha sequences) of these sequences in cytoplasmic RNA from reticulocytes or spleen cells, suggesting that the Lepore gene is expressed into mRNA at a lower extent than normal alpha or beta genes; the comparison with the level of beta-like sequences found in nuclear RNA (6--8%) further supports this conclusion and indicates, in addition, that Lepore RNA might be degraded at a faster rate than normal. 2--3% beta-like sequences are found in nuclear RNA in three cases of homozygous beta0-thalassemia, setting the highest possible estimate for the delta-RNA level; this figure suggests that the 'delta-promoter'-dependent Lepore delta beta gene is somehow more actively expressed than the delta gene.", "PMID": 446479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7603", "title": "Cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase in isolated rat liver cells.", "content": "1. The activity of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase found in the 10000 x g supernatant prepared from isolated rat liver cells was comparable to that found with microsomal fractions from whole liver. 2. The activity of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase from cells prepared from livers of rats fed the bile salt sequestering agent cholestyramine was 2--3 fold higher than the activity of this enzyme found in cells isolated from animals on a control diet. 3. On incubation of hepatocytes in a suitable medium at 37 degrees C, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity declined to about 50% of its original value after three hours despite the fact that the cells retained a high level of viability over 5--6 h as measured by various sensitive criteria. 4. The decrease in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity was observed whether cholestyramine was included in the diet or excluded from the diet of the animals used as sources of the liver cells. 5. The change in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity seen on incubation of the cells was not affected by including in the incubation medium additional nutrients such as amino acids, the glucocorticoid cortisol, phospholipid dispersions, or sodium taurocholate. 6. Changing the incubation medium in which the cells were suspended at regular intervals during the three-hour experiments failed to prevent this decline in the cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity during the incubation of these cells. 7. Although isolated liver cells have been shown to lose glutathione on incubation, addition of physiological levels of this compound did not prevent the decline in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity. 8. Cycloheximide addition to the incubation medium accelerated the decrease in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity. This suggests that some protein synthesis associated with cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity occurs during the incubation and inhibition of such protein synthesis accelerated the decrease in this enzyme activity. 9. The cytochrome P-450 content of the 10000 x g supernatant prepared from hepatocytes declined slowly to about 65% of its original value after four hours of incubation at 37 degrees C. This decline in the 10000 x g supernatant cytochrome P-450 content may partly explain the observed loss of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity during incubations in vitro. 10. Isolated hepatocytes rapidly take up radioactively labelled sodium cholate. Subsequent excretion of the radioactivity was also very rapid even in the presence of large amounts of this bile salt in the medium.", "contents": "Cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase in isolated rat liver cells. 1. The activity of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase found in the 10000 x g supernatant prepared from isolated rat liver cells was comparable to that found with microsomal fractions from whole liver. 2. The activity of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase from cells prepared from livers of rats fed the bile salt sequestering agent cholestyramine was 2--3 fold higher than the activity of this enzyme found in cells isolated from animals on a control diet. 3. On incubation of hepatocytes in a suitable medium at 37 degrees C, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity declined to about 50% of its original value after three hours despite the fact that the cells retained a high level of viability over 5--6 h as measured by various sensitive criteria. 4. The decrease in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity was observed whether cholestyramine was included in the diet or excluded from the diet of the animals used as sources of the liver cells. 5. The change in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity seen on incubation of the cells was not affected by including in the incubation medium additional nutrients such as amino acids, the glucocorticoid cortisol, phospholipid dispersions, or sodium taurocholate. 6. Changing the incubation medium in which the cells were suspended at regular intervals during the three-hour experiments failed to prevent this decline in the cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity during the incubation of these cells. 7. Although isolated liver cells have been shown to lose glutathione on incubation, addition of physiological levels of this compound did not prevent the decline in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity. 8. Cycloheximide addition to the incubation medium accelerated the decrease in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity. This suggests that some protein synthesis associated with cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity occurs during the incubation and inhibition of such protein synthesis accelerated the decrease in this enzyme activity. 9. The cytochrome P-450 content of the 10000 x g supernatant prepared from hepatocytes declined slowly to about 65% of its original value after four hours of incubation at 37 degrees C. This decline in the 10000 x g supernatant cytochrome P-450 content may partly explain the observed loss of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity during incubations in vitro. 10. Isolated hepatocytes rapidly take up radioactively labelled sodium cholate. Subsequent excretion of the radioactivity was also very rapid even in the presence of large amounts of this bile salt in the medium.", "PMID": 446480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7604", "title": "Actin in mammalian lens.", "content": "In this paper evidence is provided that one of the protein components of the water-soluble fraction of the calf lens binds specifically to deoxyribonuclease I (DNAse I). On the basis of this property, the polypeptide could be purified by applying DNAse I affinity chromatography. Concomitantly a protein of Mr55000 and a rather large amount of alpha-crystallin copurify with this polypeptide, which has a molecular weight of 42000. Highly purified 42000-Mr protein was also obtained by extraction of the water-insoluble fraction of the calf lens with 2-([tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]amino) ethanesulfonic acid followed by gel filtration. Amino acid analyses, peptide mapping and electron microscopy show that the protein obtained from both lens fractions is identical to non-muscle actin. Furthermore the amino acid composition of the 55000-Mr protein is identical to hog stomach skeletin and very similar to calf brain desmin.", "contents": "Actin in mammalian lens. In this paper evidence is provided that one of the protein components of the water-soluble fraction of the calf lens binds specifically to deoxyribonuclease I (DNAse I). On the basis of this property, the polypeptide could be purified by applying DNAse I affinity chromatography. Concomitantly a protein of Mr55000 and a rather large amount of alpha-crystallin copurify with this polypeptide, which has a molecular weight of 42000. Highly purified 42000-Mr protein was also obtained by extraction of the water-insoluble fraction of the calf lens with 2-([tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]amino) ethanesulfonic acid followed by gel filtration. Amino acid analyses, peptide mapping and electron microscopy show that the protein obtained from both lens fractions is identical to non-muscle actin. Furthermore the amino acid composition of the 55000-Mr protein is identical to hog stomach skeletin and very similar to calf brain desmin.", "PMID": 446481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7605", "title": "The molecular size and shape of the Folch-Pi apoprotein in aqueous and organic solvents.", "content": "In 1% acetic acid, sedimentation velocity measurements and equilibrium ultracentrifuge experiments demonstrate that the Folch-Pi apoprotein is not monodisperse. The weight-average molecular weight calculated from ultracentrifuge experiments and combining sedimentation coefficient and viscosity measurements, ranged from 64000 to 80000. The intrinsic viscosity value suggests an asymetric shape for the apoprotein if a low value of hydration is considered. In dioxan/1% acetic acid (2:3, v/v) a smaller sedimentation coefficient was found, the intrinsic viscosity value remaining identical to that in 4% acetic acid. In pure 2-chloroethanol, light-scattering experiments led to a molecular weight of 165000 indicating that even in this solvent the protein is not monomeric. Intrinsic viscosity and light scattering measurements on the one hand, primary sequence on the other hand (six proline residues per monomer of Mr 23500) suggest that the molecule in 2-chloroethanol may consist of rod-like segments with flexible junctions.", "contents": "The molecular size and shape of the Folch-Pi apoprotein in aqueous and organic solvents. In 1% acetic acid, sedimentation velocity measurements and equilibrium ultracentrifuge experiments demonstrate that the Folch-Pi apoprotein is not monodisperse. The weight-average molecular weight calculated from ultracentrifuge experiments and combining sedimentation coefficient and viscosity measurements, ranged from 64000 to 80000. The intrinsic viscosity value suggests an asymetric shape for the apoprotein if a low value of hydration is considered. In dioxan/1% acetic acid (2:3, v/v) a smaller sedimentation coefficient was found, the intrinsic viscosity value remaining identical to that in 4% acetic acid. In pure 2-chloroethanol, light-scattering experiments led to a molecular weight of 165000 indicating that even in this solvent the protein is not monomeric. Intrinsic viscosity and light scattering measurements on the one hand, primary sequence on the other hand (six proline residues per monomer of Mr 23500) suggest that the molecule in 2-chloroethanol may consist of rod-like segments with flexible junctions.", "PMID": 446482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7606", "title": "Inactivation and disassembly of the pyruvate dehydrogenase multienzyme complex from bovine kidney by limited proteolysis with an enzyme from rat liver.", "content": "Mammalian pyruvate dehydrogenase multienzyme complex is inactivated when treated with a leupeptin-sensitive enzyme (termed 'inactivase') obtained from rat liver lysosomes. However, the inactivation of the overall reaction does not affect any of the component activities of the enzyme complex. By several methods it is demonstrated that treatment with the inactivase provokes the disassembly of the complex into its constituent enzyme components which, though being enzymatically active when assayed separately, are unable to catalyze the coordinated reaction sequence of pyruvate oxidation. The dissociation occurs as a consequence of limited proteolysis of the lipoate acetyltransferase core of the multienzyme complex. Isolated nicked acetyltransferase retains its complete enzymatic activity and behaves as a high-molecular-weight aggregate. The lipoamide dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase components, however, are not cleaved by the inactivase.", "contents": "Inactivation and disassembly of the pyruvate dehydrogenase multienzyme complex from bovine kidney by limited proteolysis with an enzyme from rat liver. Mammalian pyruvate dehydrogenase multienzyme complex is inactivated when treated with a leupeptin-sensitive enzyme (termed 'inactivase') obtained from rat liver lysosomes. However, the inactivation of the overall reaction does not affect any of the component activities of the enzyme complex. By several methods it is demonstrated that treatment with the inactivase provokes the disassembly of the complex into its constituent enzyme components which, though being enzymatically active when assayed separately, are unable to catalyze the coordinated reaction sequence of pyruvate oxidation. The dissociation occurs as a consequence of limited proteolysis of the lipoate acetyltransferase core of the multienzyme complex. Isolated nicked acetyltransferase retains its complete enzymatic activity and behaves as a high-molecular-weight aggregate. The lipoamide dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase components, however, are not cleaved by the inactivase.", "PMID": 446483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7607", "title": "Rearrangements in the course of ribonuclease hydrolysis of pre-messenger ribonucleoproteins. A warning.", "content": "A study of the action of ribonuclease on 30--50-S monoparticles prepared from pre-messenger ribonucleoprotein (pre-mRNA . protein) was started in order to elucidate the structure of monoparticles. A ribonucleoprotein complex containing mostly 30000--38000-Mr proteins of pI 7--9 (alpha class) persisted under conditions where other proteins (23000--110000 Mr, pI 5--8.5, beta class) were relased. An unexpected increase of sedimentation coefficient accompanied the formation of the ribonucleoprotein complex. The extent of increase varied with the initial size of the monoparticles, reaching 45% for 30-S monoparticles. The ribonucleoprotein complexes designated here as 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoproteins were more homogeneous in size than the original monoparticles. Electron microscopic examination showed that the sedimentation shift corresponded to an increase of the actual size of the particles, not to flattening or change of shape. Therefore, the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoprotein is not a pre-existing unit of pre-mRNA . protein but arises from specific rearrangements probably between small alpha ribonucleoproteins formed by fragmentation of monoparticles. In addition to the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoproteins, large protein aggregates corresponding to 15% of the monoparticle proteins were formed upon ribonuclease hydrolysis. Their major proteins were neutral, suggesting that the aggregates might be precipitates of proteins at pH close to the pI. Ribonuclease being a widespread cellular enzyme, partial rearrangements may occur during preparation and handling of pre-mRNA . protein. It is particularly crucial to remark that the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoprotein which does not pre-exist might be mistaken for a pre-mRNA . protein unit.", "contents": "Rearrangements in the course of ribonuclease hydrolysis of pre-messenger ribonucleoproteins. A warning. A study of the action of ribonuclease on 30--50-S monoparticles prepared from pre-messenger ribonucleoprotein (pre-mRNA . protein) was started in order to elucidate the structure of monoparticles. A ribonucleoprotein complex containing mostly 30000--38000-Mr proteins of pI 7--9 (alpha class) persisted under conditions where other proteins (23000--110000 Mr, pI 5--8.5, beta class) were relased. An unexpected increase of sedimentation coefficient accompanied the formation of the ribonucleoprotein complex. The extent of increase varied with the initial size of the monoparticles, reaching 45% for 30-S monoparticles. The ribonucleoprotein complexes designated here as 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoproteins were more homogeneous in size than the original monoparticles. Electron microscopic examination showed that the sedimentation shift corresponded to an increase of the actual size of the particles, not to flattening or change of shape. Therefore, the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoprotein is not a pre-existing unit of pre-mRNA . protein but arises from specific rearrangements probably between small alpha ribonucleoproteins formed by fragmentation of monoparticles. In addition to the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoproteins, large protein aggregates corresponding to 15% of the monoparticle proteins were formed upon ribonuclease hydrolysis. Their major proteins were neutral, suggesting that the aggregates might be precipitates of proteins at pH close to the pI. Ribonuclease being a widespread cellular enzyme, partial rearrangements may occur during preparation and handling of pre-mRNA . protein. It is particularly crucial to remark that the 40--45-S alpha-ribonucleoprotein which does not pre-exist might be mistaken for a pre-mRNA . protein unit.", "PMID": 446484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7608", "title": "Involvement of calcium in the inhibition by insulin of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate-cyclase activity.", "content": "1. The inhibitory effect of adenosine on the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of liver plasma membranes, prepared from PVG/c rats, was potentiated by insulin. In the presence of EGTA, such potentiating effect of insulin was lost. 2. Calcium (10 microM) potentiated the inhibitory effects of both adenosine and insulin on the glucagon-stimulated cyclase activity. The synergestic effect of calcium + insulin required the presence of adenosine as judged from the use of adenosine deaminase. 3. Insulin had no significant inhibitory effect on the glucagon-stimulated cyclase activity of liver plasma membranes, prepared from young Wistar rats, unless both adenosine (50 microM) and calcium (10 microM) were added externally. 4. Results demonstrate an interaction of calcium and insulin at membrane level that, in the presence of adenosine, results in the inhibition of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity.", "contents": "Involvement of calcium in the inhibition by insulin of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate-cyclase activity. 1. The inhibitory effect of adenosine on the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of liver plasma membranes, prepared from PVG/c rats, was potentiated by insulin. In the presence of EGTA, such potentiating effect of insulin was lost. 2. Calcium (10 microM) potentiated the inhibitory effects of both adenosine and insulin on the glucagon-stimulated cyclase activity. The synergestic effect of calcium + insulin required the presence of adenosine as judged from the use of adenosine deaminase. 3. Insulin had no significant inhibitory effect on the glucagon-stimulated cyclase activity of liver plasma membranes, prepared from young Wistar rats, unless both adenosine (50 microM) and calcium (10 microM) were added externally. 4. Results demonstrate an interaction of calcium and insulin at membrane level that, in the presence of adenosine, results in the inhibition of the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity.", "PMID": 446485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7609", "title": "Rectal bladder in the treatment of bladder exstrophy.", "content": "Satisfactory results were obtained in 25 patients with bladder exstrophy treated by the Heitz-Boyer-Hovelacque operation.", "contents": "Rectal bladder in the treatment of bladder exstrophy. Satisfactory results were obtained in 25 patients with bladder exstrophy treated by the Heitz-Boyer-Hovelacque operation.", "PMID": 446486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7610", "title": "Endoscopic urethrotomy in the treatment of urethral stenosis.", "content": "After reviewing the different therapeutic methods for urethral stenosis in the male, the results obtained with Sachse's urethrotomoscope (UTC) was studied in 25 patients checked within a period of between 6 and 28 months. Patients were judged cured when they maintained normal clinical, radiological and urodynamic parameters without treatment; 75% of the patients could be included in that series. Urethral stenosis (US) is a last stage common to distinct pathological causes (congenital, infectious, iatrogenic, traumatic), and lesions, together with their anatomicopathological consequences, merit special study because they contribute to bring valuable data to therapy.", "contents": "Endoscopic urethrotomy in the treatment of urethral stenosis. After reviewing the different therapeutic methods for urethral stenosis in the male, the results obtained with Sachse's urethrotomoscope (UTC) was studied in 25 patients checked within a period of between 6 and 28 months. Patients were judged cured when they maintained normal clinical, radiological and urodynamic parameters without treatment; 75% of the patients could be included in that series. Urethral stenosis (US) is a last stage common to distinct pathological causes (congenital, infectious, iatrogenic, traumatic), and lesions, together with their anatomicopathological consequences, merit special study because they contribute to bring valuable data to therapy.", "PMID": 446487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7611", "title": "Surgical management of renal staghorn calculi by selective hypothermic perfusion.", "content": "18 patients with unilateral staghorn calculi managed by selective hypothermic perfusion are presented and the results reported. The procedure proved to be simple, safe and effective in the management of most staghorn calculi.", "contents": "Surgical management of renal staghorn calculi by selective hypothermic perfusion. 18 patients with unilateral staghorn calculi managed by selective hypothermic perfusion are presented and the results reported. The procedure proved to be simple, safe and effective in the management of most staghorn calculi.", "PMID": 446488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7612", "title": "Fracture of the penis: surgical management.", "content": "Two cases of fracture of the penis are reported. Early surgical repair of laceration of the corpus cavernosum brought about excellent results.", "contents": "Fracture of the penis: surgical management. Two cases of fracture of the penis are reported. Early surgical repair of laceration of the corpus cavernosum brought about excellent results.", "PMID": 446489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7613", "title": "Etiological aspects and interest of early surgical management of priapism.", "content": "12 patients have been treated for priapism between March 1973 and September 1977. Etiologic conditions have been found 9 times, leaving only 3 idiopathic priapisms. Treatment of choice consisted of 8 saphenocavernous shunts, achieving detumescence in 7 cases and preserving sexual potency in 5. The precocity of operation seems of no interest to priapism itself but is mandatory to prevent secondary impotence.", "contents": "Etiological aspects and interest of early surgical management of priapism. 12 patients have been treated for priapism between March 1973 and September 1977. Etiologic conditions have been found 9 times, leaving only 3 idiopathic priapisms. Treatment of choice consisted of 8 saphenocavernous shunts, achieving detumescence in 7 cases and preserving sexual potency in 5. The precocity of operation seems of no interest to priapism itself but is mandatory to prevent secondary impotence.", "PMID": 446490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7614", "title": "Vaginocystography in vesicovaginal fistulae.", "content": "The importance of vaginocystography as an additional tool to excretory urography and cystoscopy in assessment of vesicovaginal fistulae is emphasized. A simple technique applicable even to large and multiple fistulae or a capacious vagina is described and discussed.", "contents": "Vaginocystography in vesicovaginal fistulae. The importance of vaginocystography as an additional tool to excretory urography and cystoscopy in assessment of vesicovaginal fistulae is emphasized. A simple technique applicable even to large and multiple fistulae or a capacious vagina is described and discussed.", "PMID": 446492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7615", "title": "Anterior vaginal repair, cause of troublesome voiding disorders?", "content": "Clinical experience and urodynamic observations in 85 female patients with voiding disorders after anterior vaginal repair are presented. Iatrogenic or persistent urinary stress incontinence (72%), irritable trigone syndrome (48%), bladder outlet obstruction (40%), unstable bladder (25%) and recurrent cystitis (23.5%) were the most frequent findings. Also, 5 cases of urogenital fistula and 2 cases of loss of a great part of the urethra were noted. Attempts to cure these complications with different pharmacologic agents and/or surgical methods were often disappointing.", "contents": "Anterior vaginal repair, cause of troublesome voiding disorders? Clinical experience and urodynamic observations in 85 female patients with voiding disorders after anterior vaginal repair are presented. Iatrogenic or persistent urinary stress incontinence (72%), irritable trigone syndrome (48%), bladder outlet obstruction (40%), unstable bladder (25%) and recurrent cystitis (23.5%) were the most frequent findings. Also, 5 cases of urogenital fistula and 2 cases of loss of a great part of the urethra were noted. Attempts to cure these complications with different pharmacologic agents and/or surgical methods were often disappointing.", "PMID": 446493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7616", "title": "Calcitonin load in absorptive hypercalciuria type I.", "content": "The persistence of hypercalciuria (HCU), despite long-lasting calcium restriction in the diet in patients with absorptive HCU type I gives evidence of an additional endogenous source of calcium contributing to the pathogenesis of this disorder. The role of calcium mobilization from the bone is documented by the effective suppression of enhanced calcium mobilization from the bone, by means of calcitonin load in 5 patients with absorptive HCU type I and comparison with 7 normal controls.", "contents": "Calcitonin load in absorptive hypercalciuria type I. The persistence of hypercalciuria (HCU), despite long-lasting calcium restriction in the diet in patients with absorptive HCU type I gives evidence of an additional endogenous source of calcium contributing to the pathogenesis of this disorder. The role of calcium mobilization from the bone is documented by the effective suppression of enhanced calcium mobilization from the bone, by means of calcitonin load in 5 patients with absorptive HCU type I and comparison with 7 normal controls.", "PMID": 446494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7617", "title": "Total pelvic arterial embolization in a case of massive vesical and vaginal bleeding by pelvis carcinomatosis.", "content": "A case of massive vesical and vaginal bleeding due to a primitive uterine cancer that relapsed hemorragically after bilateral hypogastric embolization and required an additional embolization of all arterial sources supplying the tumor is reported.", "contents": "Total pelvic arterial embolization in a case of massive vesical and vaginal bleeding by pelvis carcinomatosis. A case of massive vesical and vaginal bleeding due to a primitive uterine cancer that relapsed hemorragically after bilateral hypogastric embolization and required an additional embolization of all arterial sources supplying the tumor is reported.", "PMID": 446495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7618", "title": "Renal arterial thrombosis after the contralateral removal of a pelvic kidney.", "content": "In a 19-year-old female a pelvic kidney, on the left side, was removed because of recurrent urinary tract infections, severe abdominal complaints and a pathological isotope-nephrography. Following nephrectomy a severe uremia with cerebral edema and pneumonia developed based on a medial necrosis of the artery of the right kidney. After surgical correction the function of the right solitary kidney returned to normal.", "contents": "Renal arterial thrombosis after the contralateral removal of a pelvic kidney. In a 19-year-old female a pelvic kidney, on the left side, was removed because of recurrent urinary tract infections, severe abdominal complaints and a pathological isotope-nephrography. Following nephrectomy a severe uremia with cerebral edema and pneumonia developed based on a medial necrosis of the artery of the right kidney. After surgical correction the function of the right solitary kidney returned to normal.", "PMID": 446496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7619", "title": "Spontaneous rupture of renal pelvis during postobstructive diuresis.", "content": "A case of spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis during postobstructive diuresis following spontaneous relief of anuria in a patient with postpyelolithotomy retroperitoneal fibrosis, is described. The unusual etiopathological setting which predisposed to the occurrence of such a rare phenomenon and its treatment implications are discussed.", "contents": "Spontaneous rupture of renal pelvis during postobstructive diuresis. A case of spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis during postobstructive diuresis following spontaneous relief of anuria in a patient with postpyelolithotomy retroperitoneal fibrosis, is described. The unusual etiopathological setting which predisposed to the occurrence of such a rare phenomenon and its treatment implications are discussed.", "PMID": 446497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7620", "title": "Unilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis.", "content": "A case of unilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis is presented in a patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The diagnosis was established from the presence of gas in the renal parenchyma, the pelvicalyceal system and the ureter. The patient was treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics and the function of the left kidney returned to normal.", "contents": "Unilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis. A case of unilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis is presented in a patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The diagnosis was established from the presence of gas in the renal parenchyma, the pelvicalyceal system and the ureter. The patient was treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics and the function of the left kidney returned to normal.", "PMID": 446499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7621", "title": "Transitional cell carcinoma arising from bladder left behind.", "content": "A case of transitional cell carcinoma arising from a bladder which was left behind for more than 24 years without pyocystis syndrome is described. A search in the literature revealed 10 cases of defunctionalized bladder that developed tumors over a rather short latent period ranging from 3 months to 7 years, and mostly with evidence of severe bladder infection.", "contents": "Transitional cell carcinoma arising from bladder left behind. A case of transitional cell carcinoma arising from a bladder which was left behind for more than 24 years without pyocystis syndrome is described. A search in the literature revealed 10 cases of defunctionalized bladder that developed tumors over a rather short latent period ranging from 3 months to 7 years, and mostly with evidence of severe bladder infection.", "PMID": 446500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7622", "title": "Renal cystic diseases in children--classification.", "content": "This paper reports on the classification of renal cystic diseases in children. Three main types are observed: dysplasic, familial and others, the latter including the medullary sponge kidney. This paper also aims at settling some terminology problems.", "contents": "Renal cystic diseases in children--classification. This paper reports on the classification of renal cystic diseases in children. Three main types are observed: dysplasic, familial and others, the latter including the medullary sponge kidney. This paper also aims at settling some terminology problems.", "PMID": 446501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7623", "title": "Endometriosis of the ureter.", "content": "Endometriosis of the ureter is an exceptional cause of ureteral obstruction. Pathogenesis and clinical picture are demonstrated on the basis of 2 cases, giving an example for the spread of endometrial tissue via the lymphatics. It is emphasized that young women should have a gynecological examination in case of pelvic ureteral obstruction. Final diagnosis of the isolate ureteral endometriosis can only be made by histological examination. Therapy is usually surgical followed by hormonal treatment. The routine use of excretory urograms in women suffering from endometriosis should prevent urological complications.", "contents": "Endometriosis of the ureter. Endometriosis of the ureter is an exceptional cause of ureteral obstruction. Pathogenesis and clinical picture are demonstrated on the basis of 2 cases, giving an example for the spread of endometrial tissue via the lymphatics. It is emphasized that young women should have a gynecological examination in case of pelvic ureteral obstruction. Final diagnosis of the isolate ureteral endometriosis can only be made by histological examination. Therapy is usually surgical followed by hormonal treatment. The routine use of excretory urograms in women suffering from endometriosis should prevent urological complications.", "PMID": 446502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7624", "title": "Antireflux in patients with neurogenic bladder.", "content": "The results of ureteral reimplantation in 8 neurogenic bladders with a high outflow resistance and severe trabeculation are presented. Operation was successful in all cases. The conditions for a successful intervention in these cases are: (1) previous or simultaneous treatment of the high outflow resistance: intermittent catheterization was found to be an excellent method for this purpose, and (2) the submucosal tunnel should be created preferably upon the trigone which is the only place free of trabeculation. High outflow resistance and severe trabeculation should no longer be considered as contraindications for antireflux surgery in the neurogenic bladder.", "contents": "Antireflux in patients with neurogenic bladder. The results of ureteral reimplantation in 8 neurogenic bladders with a high outflow resistance and severe trabeculation are presented. Operation was successful in all cases. The conditions for a successful intervention in these cases are: (1) previous or simultaneous treatment of the high outflow resistance: intermittent catheterization was found to be an excellent method for this purpose, and (2) the submucosal tunnel should be created preferably upon the trigone which is the only place free of trabeculation. High outflow resistance and severe trabeculation should no longer be considered as contraindications for antireflux surgery in the neurogenic bladder.", "PMID": 446503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7625", "title": "Antiandrogens in the treatment of prostatic cancer.", "content": "Since prostatic carcionma is hormone dependent, treatment of this tumor has been carried out in this department over the last 10 years employing antiandrogens, particularly cyproterone acetate (CPA), associated in some cases with orchiectomy. Of 500 patients thus treated, the author reports on 236 patients with a 5-year follow-up and 184 with a 7-year follow-up. Of these, 126 (53.4%) had not received hormone treatment whereas 110 (46.6%) had been treated with estrogens. The mean survival rate was 64.4% at 5 years and 56.3% at 7 years in these patients and 51 and 43%, respectively, in the estrogen-treated patients. The author emphasizes that not only is CPA of great value in the treatment of prostatic carcinoma, but it is also useful in determining the hormone dependency of the tumor which is indispensable before proceeding with hormone therapy.", "contents": "Antiandrogens in the treatment of prostatic cancer. Since prostatic carcionma is hormone dependent, treatment of this tumor has been carried out in this department over the last 10 years employing antiandrogens, particularly cyproterone acetate (CPA), associated in some cases with orchiectomy. Of 500 patients thus treated, the author reports on 236 patients with a 5-year follow-up and 184 with a 7-year follow-up. Of these, 126 (53.4%) had not received hormone treatment whereas 110 (46.6%) had been treated with estrogens. The mean survival rate was 64.4% at 5 years and 56.3% at 7 years in these patients and 51 and 43%, respectively, in the estrogen-treated patients. The author emphasizes that not only is CPA of great value in the treatment of prostatic carcinoma, but it is also useful in determining the hormone dependency of the tumor which is indispensable before proceeding with hormone therapy.", "PMID": 446504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7626", "title": "Angiographic features of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis.", "content": "Preoperative diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is possible in numerous cases by renal angiography, thus permitting the differentiation of this disease from renal adenocarcinoma. Angiographic features are reviewed in patients with proved XGP. The most useful findings are: (1) presence of hypervascularised areas; (2) dilated renal capsular and perforating arteries, and (3) heterogenous aspect of the kidney during the nephrographic period.", "contents": "Angiographic features of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. Preoperative diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is possible in numerous cases by renal angiography, thus permitting the differentiation of this disease from renal adenocarcinoma. Angiographic features are reviewed in patients with proved XGP. The most useful findings are: (1) presence of hypervascularised areas; (2) dilated renal capsular and perforating arteries, and (3) heterogenous aspect of the kidney during the nephrographic period.", "PMID": 446505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7627", "title": "Histological grading of transitional cell tumours of the bladder. Value of histological grading (WHO) in prognosis.", "content": "Mortality among 139 patients with transitional cell tumour of the bladder was studied. Tumours were reevaluated according to the grading system recommended by WHO. The absolute 5-year survival of histologically benign papilloma cases was 68%, of grade I carcinoma cases 64%, of grade II carcinoma cases 42% and of grade III carcinoma patients 34%. Clinical staging (UICC), however, would have been more effective than histological grading (WHO) for prognostic purposes. 3 of the 14 patients with histologically benign papilloma in this study developed grade I carcinoma during follow-up periods of between 4.5 and 24 years. Following radical treatment all recurrences were papillomas. The study suggests that histological grading should be used to complement clinical staging in prognosis and that with half-yearly check-ups and elimination of any tumours thus detected, patients with papilloma rarely develop carcinomas of higher grade than grade I.", "contents": "Histological grading of transitional cell tumours of the bladder. Value of histological grading (WHO) in prognosis. Mortality among 139 patients with transitional cell tumour of the bladder was studied. Tumours were reevaluated according to the grading system recommended by WHO. The absolute 5-year survival of histologically benign papilloma cases was 68%, of grade I carcinoma cases 64%, of grade II carcinoma cases 42% and of grade III carcinoma patients 34%. Clinical staging (UICC), however, would have been more effective than histological grading (WHO) for prognostic purposes. 3 of the 14 patients with histologically benign papilloma in this study developed grade I carcinoma during follow-up periods of between 4.5 and 24 years. Following radical treatment all recurrences were papillomas. The study suggests that histological grading should be used to complement clinical staging in prognosis and that with half-yearly check-ups and elimination of any tumours thus detected, patients with papilloma rarely develop carcinomas of higher grade than grade I.", "PMID": 446506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7628", "title": "Renal cancer steroid receptors: biochemical basis for endocrine therapy.", "content": "Estradiol receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), found in experimental renal cancer as well as in normal human kidney and in human renal cell carcinoma (RCC), have been measured in 27 RCCs from patients submitted to surgery and endocrine therapy in an attempt to predict the response to progestational therapy. Of these 27 tumors 59% were positive for ER and 59% for PR; 37% were positive and 19% negative for both ER and PR. The follow-up of 23 patients showed that progestational therapy, started in 18 patients, has given favorable results in 14 patients and negative results in 3 patients with ER-PR- renal cancer. Antiestrogenic therapy, started soon after nephrectomy in 1 patient with ER+PR- renal cancer and lung metastases, failed since the patient died 8 months after surgery.", "contents": "Renal cancer steroid receptors: biochemical basis for endocrine therapy. Estradiol receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), found in experimental renal cancer as well as in normal human kidney and in human renal cell carcinoma (RCC), have been measured in 27 RCCs from patients submitted to surgery and endocrine therapy in an attempt to predict the response to progestational therapy. Of these 27 tumors 59% were positive for ER and 59% for PR; 37% were positive and 19% negative for both ER and PR. The follow-up of 23 patients showed that progestational therapy, started in 18 patients, has given favorable results in 14 patients and negative results in 3 patients with ER-PR- renal cancer. Antiestrogenic therapy, started soon after nephrectomy in 1 patient with ER+PR- renal cancer and lung metastases, failed since the patient died 8 months after surgery.", "PMID": 446507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7629", "title": "Relationship between the severity of renal stone disease and urine composition.", "content": "The biochemical findings in urine from 62 male and 20 female consecutive patients with renal stone disease were studied in relation to the size of concrements and the estimated rate of stone formation. There appeared to be good agreement between urine composition and stone history. Biochemical grouping of the patients resulted in different distributions in the different groups of stone-formers. The quotients calcium/magnesium (k1) and calcium X oxalate/magnesium X creatinine (k3) appeared to reflect the severity of stone disease and seemed to provide a rational approach to the evaluation of patients with urolithiasis.", "contents": "Relationship between the severity of renal stone disease and urine composition. The biochemical findings in urine from 62 male and 20 female consecutive patients with renal stone disease were studied in relation to the size of concrements and the estimated rate of stone formation. There appeared to be good agreement between urine composition and stone history. Biochemical grouping of the patients resulted in different distributions in the different groups of stone-formers. The quotients calcium/magnesium (k1) and calcium X oxalate/magnesium X creatinine (k3) appeared to reflect the severity of stone disease and seemed to provide a rational approach to the evaluation of patients with urolithiasis.", "PMID": 446508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7630", "title": "Diphallia with a normal and a blind-ending urethra.", "content": "A 65-year-old male with incomplete double penis is reported. He has a duplicated glans on a single shaft. Both glans each have an urethra surrounded by a corpora spongiosum. The right urethra drained a normal bladder and the left urethra vanishes near the seminal colliculus.", "contents": "Diphallia with a normal and a blind-ending urethra. A 65-year-old male with incomplete double penis is reported. He has a duplicated glans on a single shaft. Both glans each have an urethra surrounded by a corpora spongiosum. The right urethra drained a normal bladder and the left urethra vanishes near the seminal colliculus.", "PMID": 446509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7631", "title": "A novel interaction involving a polypeptide chain (P33) in covalent linkage with IgM on the surface of a Burkitt lymphoma cell line (Daudi).", "content": "The surface IgM of Daudi Burkitt lymphoma cells has been shown to consist of mu chains and kappa chains covalently linked, by disulfide bonding, to a novel polypeptide chain of approximate molecular weight 33,000. This novel polypeptide chain (P33) is similar in several properties to the heavy chain of the Ia antigen: glycoprotein nature; apparent molecular weight; isoelectric behavior and cysteine content. The linkage of P33 to surface immunoglobulin has not been observed with any other human lymphoma or lymphoblastoid cell lines.", "contents": "A novel interaction involving a polypeptide chain (P33) in covalent linkage with IgM on the surface of a Burkitt lymphoma cell line (Daudi). The surface IgM of Daudi Burkitt lymphoma cells has been shown to consist of mu chains and kappa chains covalently linked, by disulfide bonding, to a novel polypeptide chain of approximate molecular weight 33,000. This novel polypeptide chain (P33) is similar in several properties to the heavy chain of the Ia antigen: glycoprotein nature; apparent molecular weight; isoelectric behavior and cysteine content. The linkage of P33 to surface immunoglobulin has not been observed with any other human lymphoma or lymphoblastoid cell lines.", "PMID": 446519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7632", "title": "Deficiency of high-affinity anti-beta-D-galactosidase antibodies in selected low immune responder mice.", "content": "Amount and affinity of anti-beta-D-galactosidase-activating antibodies (AAb) were studied in two lines of mice obtained by selective breeding for antibody response to heterologous erythrocytes. These lines, referred to as high (H) and low (L) lines, differ also in their responses to many antigens. Concerning AAb amounts, the maximal titer in H mice is higher than in L mice. However, the AAb levels in H mice decreased with increasing immunizing doses and became lower than in L mice for the highest dose. This fact can be explained in terms of intramolecular competition or suppression. Whereas the usual maturation pattern was observed in H mice, no AAb of high affinity were found in L mice, even after a minimal immunizing dose. At any dose tested, no maturation of AAb occurred until three months after immunization. This deficiency may be ascribed to B lymphocyte or macrophage modifications. A correlation between the deficiency of high-affinity AAb in L mice and their genetically induced low antibody responsiveness cannot be proved.", "contents": "Deficiency of high-affinity anti-beta-D-galactosidase antibodies in selected low immune responder mice. Amount and affinity of anti-beta-D-galactosidase-activating antibodies (AAb) were studied in two lines of mice obtained by selective breeding for antibody response to heterologous erythrocytes. These lines, referred to as high (H) and low (L) lines, differ also in their responses to many antigens. Concerning AAb amounts, the maximal titer in H mice is higher than in L mice. However, the AAb levels in H mice decreased with increasing immunizing doses and became lower than in L mice for the highest dose. This fact can be explained in terms of intramolecular competition or suppression. Whereas the usual maturation pattern was observed in H mice, no AAb of high affinity were found in L mice, even after a minimal immunizing dose. At any dose tested, no maturation of AAb occurred until three months after immunization. This deficiency may be ascribed to B lymphocyte or macrophage modifications. A correlation between the deficiency of high-affinity AAb in L mice and their genetically induced low antibody responsiveness cannot be proved.", "PMID": 446520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7633", "title": "Effects of irradiation and storage on granulocytes harvested by continuous-flow centrifugation.", "content": "Five normal subjects were subjected to leukapheresis by continuous-flow-centrifugation (CFC) in the Aminco Celltrifuge. Granulocyte functional capacities were evaluated on the venous blood samples drawn before apheresis and on the cell-rich plasma collected by CFC, immediately after collection and after short-term storage at 4 degrees C with or without previous irradiation (1500 rad, 50 rad/min). The CFC technique has been shown to provide cells without functional damage. Irradiation did not appear to influence granulocyte function, as evaluated by in vitro studies. The data demonstrate that granulocytes maintain, even after irradiation, functional activities similar to those found immediately after collection for up to 24 hours of storage at 4 degrees C and exhibit only a moderate loss of function after 48 h. Chemotaxis appears to be the most sensitive detector of cellular damage of stored granulocytes, either irradiated or non-irradiated; this technique may be the most useful for assessment of granulocyte function before transfusion.", "contents": "Effects of irradiation and storage on granulocytes harvested by continuous-flow centrifugation. Five normal subjects were subjected to leukapheresis by continuous-flow-centrifugation (CFC) in the Aminco Celltrifuge. Granulocyte functional capacities were evaluated on the venous blood samples drawn before apheresis and on the cell-rich plasma collected by CFC, immediately after collection and after short-term storage at 4 degrees C with or without previous irradiation (1500 rad, 50 rad/min). The CFC technique has been shown to provide cells without functional damage. Irradiation did not appear to influence granulocyte function, as evaluated by in vitro studies. The data demonstrate that granulocytes maintain, even after irradiation, functional activities similar to those found immediately after collection for up to 24 hours of storage at 4 degrees C and exhibit only a moderate loss of function after 48 h. Chemotaxis appears to be the most sensitive detector of cellular damage of stored granulocytes, either irradiated or non-irradiated; this technique may be the most useful for assessment of granulocyte function before transfusion.", "PMID": 446581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7634", "title": "Suppressive effect of interferon on erythroid cell proliferation.", "content": "The effect of interferon on mouse and human in vitro erythropoiesis was investigated using the mouse marrow CFU-E and the human blood BFU-E systems, respectively. Homologous interferons were found to have a marked inhibitory effect on mouse CFU-E and human BFU-E proliferation. This inhibitory effect was dose related and independent of the erythropoietin concentration used. The effective concentration of human interferon was within the range observed in humans following viral infections. It is suggested that interferon may play a role in the mechanism of the acute erythroblastopenic crisis observed at times in patients with chronic anemia following viral infections.", "contents": "Suppressive effect of interferon on erythroid cell proliferation. The effect of interferon on mouse and human in vitro erythropoiesis was investigated using the mouse marrow CFU-E and the human blood BFU-E systems, respectively. Homologous interferons were found to have a marked inhibitory effect on mouse CFU-E and human BFU-E proliferation. This inhibitory effect was dose related and independent of the erythropoietin concentration used. The effective concentration of human interferon was within the range observed in humans following viral infections. It is suggested that interferon may play a role in the mechanism of the acute erythroblastopenic crisis observed at times in patients with chronic anemia following viral infections.", "PMID": 446582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7635", "title": "Stimulation by isoproterenol of erythropoiesis in cultures of dispersed cells of the primitive-streak chick blastodisc.", "content": "Low concentrations of isoproterenol stimulated proliferation of precursors of erythroid cells in cultures of cells prepared from the developing chick blastodisc at the stage of the primitive streak. Propranolol blocked this stimulatory action but had no effect upon erythropoiesis in the absence of isoproterenol.", "contents": "Stimulation by isoproterenol of erythropoiesis in cultures of dispersed cells of the primitive-streak chick blastodisc. Low concentrations of isoproterenol stimulated proliferation of precursors of erythroid cells in cultures of cells prepared from the developing chick blastodisc at the stage of the primitive streak. Propranolol blocked this stimulatory action but had no effect upon erythropoiesis in the absence of isoproterenol.", "PMID": 446583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7636", "title": "Mononuclear cell infiltration of the aortic intima in domestic swine.", "content": "The preparation of thick endothelial \"h\u00e4utchen\" from microscopically lipid-free areas of the thoracic and abdominal aorta of 22 domestic pigs proved that there is a surprisingly frequent penetration of mononuclear blood cells into the subendothelial space. They are deposited on the intima in a diffuse or focal distribution as dense epi-, inter- and subendothelial cell infiltrates.", "contents": "Mononuclear cell infiltration of the aortic intima in domestic swine. The preparation of thick endothelial \"h\u00e4utchen\" from microscopically lipid-free areas of the thoracic and abdominal aorta of 22 domestic pigs proved that there is a surprisingly frequent penetration of mononuclear blood cells into the subendothelial space. They are deposited on the intima in a diffuse or focal distribution as dense epi-, inter- and subendothelial cell infiltrates.", "PMID": 446590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7637", "title": "Encephalitis congenita symptomatica toxica in experimental conditions.", "content": "The object of the study was the cerebral cortex of newborn rat. Tissue samples for examination were collected from the 2nd to the 8th hour after birth. Experimental material was the tissue of control animals and newborns whose mothers had been treated with both ethanol and pyrazole throughout gestation, and also with either ethanol or pyrazole alone. Ethanol and pyrazole were administered by gastric tube, ethanol at doses of 8.0 g/kg body weight, pyrazole at doses of 36 mg/kg body weight. The results indicate that ethanol ingested by the mother during gestation inhibits cell maturation in the cerebral cortex, whereas the combined administration of ethanol and pyrazole produces a highly toxic action. Its morphological exponent are symptoms which support the diagnosis of encephalitis congenita symptomatica toxica.", "contents": "Encephalitis congenita symptomatica toxica in experimental conditions. The object of the study was the cerebral cortex of newborn rat. Tissue samples for examination were collected from the 2nd to the 8th hour after birth. Experimental material was the tissue of control animals and newborns whose mothers had been treated with both ethanol and pyrazole throughout gestation, and also with either ethanol or pyrazole alone. Ethanol and pyrazole were administered by gastric tube, ethanol at doses of 8.0 g/kg body weight, pyrazole at doses of 36 mg/kg body weight. The results indicate that ethanol ingested by the mother during gestation inhibits cell maturation in the cerebral cortex, whereas the combined administration of ethanol and pyrazole produces a highly toxic action. Its morphological exponent are symptoms which support the diagnosis of encephalitis congenita symptomatica toxica.", "PMID": 446591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7638", "title": "Features and distribution of intracerebrally injected peritoneal macrophages.", "content": "Radioactively labeled macrophages were injected intracerebrally in order to acquire additional criteria for the identity of certain intracerebral cell types with cells of the monocyte-macrophage series. The intracerebral distribution of the labeled cells, their reactive ability following silver impregnation, and the formation of processes were considered as indications for ameboid motility. The localization, reactive ability, and structure of the cells were similar to that found in cells inside the brain which are considered to be monocyte derivatives, i.e., intraventricular cells such as epiplexus cells and supraependymal cells, progressive microglia, free subarachnoidal cells, and perivascular cells of intracerebral vessels. A survival time of 2 months was assumed for the cells since isolated, intracerebrally administered, peritoneal macrophages can still be demonstrated inside the subarachnoid space 2 months after the injection.", "contents": "Features and distribution of intracerebrally injected peritoneal macrophages. Radioactively labeled macrophages were injected intracerebrally in order to acquire additional criteria for the identity of certain intracerebral cell types with cells of the monocyte-macrophage series. The intracerebral distribution of the labeled cells, their reactive ability following silver impregnation, and the formation of processes were considered as indications for ameboid motility. The localization, reactive ability, and structure of the cells were similar to that found in cells inside the brain which are considered to be monocyte derivatives, i.e., intraventricular cells such as epiplexus cells and supraependymal cells, progressive microglia, free subarachnoidal cells, and perivascular cells of intracerebral vessels. A survival time of 2 months was assumed for the cells since isolated, intracerebrally administered, peritoneal macrophages can still be demonstrated inside the subarachnoid space 2 months after the injection.", "PMID": 446592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7639", "title": "Acute and subchronic kidney injuries in mice induced by diphenylamine (DPA).", "content": "Adult and female mice were fed with diphenylamine by oral gavage. Mice of both sexes showed up with kidney injuries involving tubuli and some glomeruli. RE-cells in livers of both sexes were activated with content of yellowish-brown pigment.", "contents": "Acute and subchronic kidney injuries in mice induced by diphenylamine (DPA). Adult and female mice were fed with diphenylamine by oral gavage. Mice of both sexes showed up with kidney injuries involving tubuli and some glomeruli. RE-cells in livers of both sexes were activated with content of yellowish-brown pigment.", "PMID": 446593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7640", "title": "Organophosphate pesticide DDVP-induced alterations in the rat cerebellum and spinal cord -- an electron microscopic study.", "content": "DDVP is an organophosphate pesticide whose neurotoxicity, in the form of cholinesterase inhbition, is well-known. Rats, weighing 200-225 g were given intraperitoneal injections of 3 mg/kg. DDVP daily for 10 days. Following perfusion-fixation, ultrathin sections of the cerebellum and spinal cord were examined with an electron microscope. A large number of electron-dense bodies exhibiting electron-lucid vacuoles were discernible in the perikarya of cerebellar neurons. Aggregations of mitochondria were also seen. Myelin-figures in dendrites and axons of the spinal cord were detected. Evidence of oedema was evident in the spinal cord.", "contents": "Organophosphate pesticide DDVP-induced alterations in the rat cerebellum and spinal cord -- an electron microscopic study. DDVP is an organophosphate pesticide whose neurotoxicity, in the form of cholinesterase inhbition, is well-known. Rats, weighing 200-225 g were given intraperitoneal injections of 3 mg/kg. DDVP daily for 10 days. Following perfusion-fixation, ultrathin sections of the cerebellum and spinal cord were examined with an electron microscope. A large number of electron-dense bodies exhibiting electron-lucid vacuoles were discernible in the perikarya of cerebellar neurons. Aggregations of mitochondria were also seen. Myelin-figures in dendrites and axons of the spinal cord were detected. Evidence of oedema was evident in the spinal cord.", "PMID": 446594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7641", "title": "Cytogenetic properties of Chinese hamster V79-E cells: G-banding, C-banding, nucleolar organizer regions, and sister chromatid exchanges.", "content": "A line of the Chinese hamster V79 strain, denominated as V79-E, is cytogenetically characterized. It has a modal chromosome number of 22. Chromosome morphology, G- and C-banding reveal strong differences from the normal complement of the Chinese hamster presumably caused by rearrangements of chromosome segments during the past 20 years of in vitro culture. 4 chromosomes possess terminal nucleolar organizer regions. Spontaneous sister chromatid exchanges occur with a frequency of 0.38 sister chromatid exchanges per chromosome.", "contents": "Cytogenetic properties of Chinese hamster V79-E cells: G-banding, C-banding, nucleolar organizer regions, and sister chromatid exchanges. A line of the Chinese hamster V79 strain, denominated as V79-E, is cytogenetically characterized. It has a modal chromosome number of 22. Chromosome morphology, G- and C-banding reveal strong differences from the normal complement of the Chinese hamster presumably caused by rearrangements of chromosome segments during the past 20 years of in vitro culture. 4 chromosomes possess terminal nucleolar organizer regions. Spontaneous sister chromatid exchanges occur with a frequency of 0.38 sister chromatid exchanges per chromosome.", "PMID": 446595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7642", "title": "Insensitivity of the ferritin iron core to heat treatment.", "content": "To test whether the reactivity of ferritin iron is affected by the heat treatment used in ferritin isolation, we prepared ferritin from the same horse spleen with or without heating. Both samples exhibited similar reactivity upon reduction or chelation of iron.", "contents": "Insensitivity of the ferritin iron core to heat treatment. To test whether the reactivity of ferritin iron is affected by the heat treatment used in ferritin isolation, we prepared ferritin from the same horse spleen with or without heating. Both samples exhibited similar reactivity upon reduction or chelation of iron.", "PMID": 446596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7643", "title": "Effects of thyroidectomy on monoamine oxidase activities toward tyramine and serotonin in the circumventricular nuclei of the rat.", "content": "Following thyroidectomy, monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities toward tyramine decreased significantly by 20% in the nucleus periventricularis and the nucleus arcuatus among the 3 hypothalamic nuclei of the rat, while MAO activity toward serotonin decreased significantly by 10% only in the nucleus periventricularis. It is suggested that thyroidectomy induced selective changes on the multiple forms of MAO in the discrete circumventricular nuclei.", "contents": "Effects of thyroidectomy on monoamine oxidase activities toward tyramine and serotonin in the circumventricular nuclei of the rat. Following thyroidectomy, monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities toward tyramine decreased significantly by 20% in the nucleus periventricularis and the nucleus arcuatus among the 3 hypothalamic nuclei of the rat, while MAO activity toward serotonin decreased significantly by 10% only in the nucleus periventricularis. It is suggested that thyroidectomy induced selective changes on the multiple forms of MAO in the discrete circumventricular nuclei.", "PMID": 446597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7644", "title": "Tissue ascorbic acid and a liver dehydroascorbatase in guinea-pigs.", "content": "The extraction, partial purification and assay of a dehydroascorbatase from guinea-pig liver is described. There was no evidence that changes in dehydroascorbatase activity could account for the modified tissue ascorbic acid concentrations associated with aging or with the ingestion of fluoride, flavonoids or anthocyanin material.", "contents": "Tissue ascorbic acid and a liver dehydroascorbatase in guinea-pigs. The extraction, partial purification and assay of a dehydroascorbatase from guinea-pig liver is described. There was no evidence that changes in dehydroascorbatase activity could account for the modified tissue ascorbic acid concentrations associated with aging or with the ingestion of fluoride, flavonoids or anthocyanin material.", "PMID": 446598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7645", "title": "Interstrain variation of murine arylsulfatase C.", "content": "A method has been developed for the assay of arylsulfatase C in tissue extracts containing arylsulfatases A and B. Significant variation of enzyme activity was observed among 26 inbred murine strains. Activity differences were apparent at all stages evaluated between 1 and 70 days postnatal age. Arylsulfatase C from representative high- and low-activity strains exhibited similar Michaelis constants, temperature optima, pH optima, thermostabilities and inhibitor profiles.", "contents": "Interstrain variation of murine arylsulfatase C. A method has been developed for the assay of arylsulfatase C in tissue extracts containing arylsulfatases A and B. Significant variation of enzyme activity was observed among 26 inbred murine strains. Activity differences were apparent at all stages evaluated between 1 and 70 days postnatal age. Arylsulfatase C from representative high- and low-activity strains exhibited similar Michaelis constants, temperature optima, pH optima, thermostabilities and inhibitor profiles.", "PMID": 446599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7646", "title": "Chemical characterization of human urine albumin in proteinuria.", "content": "From the urine of a patient with proteinuria, the albumin protein component was isolated and compared with human serum albumin. By comparing the amino acid composition of the original proteins and their large cyanogen bromide fragments, peptide maps and N-terminal sequences of 33 amino acid residues, the identity of both proteins was shown.", "contents": "Chemical characterization of human urine albumin in proteinuria. From the urine of a patient with proteinuria, the albumin protein component was isolated and compared with human serum albumin. By comparing the amino acid composition of the original proteins and their large cyanogen bromide fragments, peptide maps and N-terminal sequences of 33 amino acid residues, the identity of both proteins was shown.", "PMID": 446600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7647", "title": "Isolation of pathogenic treponemes from hare.", "content": "A presumably new species of pathogenic treponemes was isolated from a lesion on the male organs of hare (Lepus sp.) and the scrotum of a rabbit (Oryctolagus sp.) was infected with this treponeme. Lesion developed on the scrotum after a 110-day incubation.", "contents": "Isolation of pathogenic treponemes from hare. A presumably new species of pathogenic treponemes was isolated from a lesion on the male organs of hare (Lepus sp.) and the scrotum of a rabbit (Oryctolagus sp.) was infected with this treponeme. Lesion developed on the scrotum after a 110-day incubation.", "PMID": 446601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7648", "title": "On the inhibitory effect of 2-amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine on growth of vaccinia virus.", "content": "2-Amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine prevents maturation of Vaccinia virus. Proteins synthesized in the presence of the drug are not assembled into virions.", "contents": "On the inhibitory effect of 2-amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine on growth of vaccinia virus. 2-Amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine prevents maturation of Vaccinia virus. Proteins synthesized in the presence of the drug are not assembled into virions.", "PMID": 446602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7649", "title": "The fasciolicidal activity of a halogenated benzenesulfonanilide.", "content": "Halogenated benzenesulfonanilides have potent fasciolicidal activity. The efficacy of 1 such compound in mice, sheep, and cattle is reported.", "contents": "The fasciolicidal activity of a halogenated benzenesulfonanilide. Halogenated benzenesulfonanilides have potent fasciolicidal activity. The efficacy of 1 such compound in mice, sheep, and cattle is reported.", "PMID": 446603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7650", "title": "Cytoplasmic contaminants in Triton X-100 washed rat liver nuclei - a possible way of further purification.", "content": "The presence of cytoplasmic contaminants is demonstrated in preparations of rat liver nuclei, even after washing with Triton X-100. They can be removed by incubation at 37 degrees C in a medium of low-salt concentration.", "contents": "Cytoplasmic contaminants in Triton X-100 washed rat liver nuclei - a possible way of further purification. The presence of cytoplasmic contaminants is demonstrated in preparations of rat liver nuclei, even after washing with Triton X-100. They can be removed by incubation at 37 degrees C in a medium of low-salt concentration.", "PMID": 446604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7651", "title": "Penetration and interaction with haemoglobin of corynebacteria-like microorganisms into erythrocytes in vitro.", "content": "Following 24 h incubation of normal blood in the presence of the microorganism, the evolution of cell wall deficient forms within the erythrocytes and a process of oxidation of the haemoglobin may be observed.", "contents": "Penetration and interaction with haemoglobin of corynebacteria-like microorganisms into erythrocytes in vitro. Following 24 h incubation of normal blood in the presence of the microorganism, the evolution of cell wall deficient forms within the erythrocytes and a process of oxidation of the haemoglobin may be observed.", "PMID": 446605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7652", "title": "A specific GT1 ganglioside-luteinizing hormone interaction induces conductance changes in lipid bilayers.", "content": "A specific interaction was demonstrated between GT1 gangliosides incorporated in bilayer membranes and luteinizing hormone. This interaction would allow the penetration of a hormone subunit in the membrane. The results are discussed in terms of adenylate cyclase activation.", "contents": "A specific GT1 ganglioside-luteinizing hormone interaction induces conductance changes in lipid bilayers. A specific interaction was demonstrated between GT1 gangliosides incorporated in bilayer membranes and luteinizing hormone. This interaction would allow the penetration of a hormone subunit in the membrane. The results are discussed in terms of adenylate cyclase activation.", "PMID": 446606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7653", "title": "Innervation by W-type retinal ganglion cells of superior colliculus neurons projecting to pulvinar nuclei in cats.", "content": "Neurons of the cat superior colliculus (SC) sending their axons to the pulvinar nuclei were identified electrophysiologically as the ones responding antidromically to electrical stimulation of the pulvinar nuclei. They were located in the superficial layers of SC and found to be innervated by axons of W-type ganglion cells of the retina.", "contents": "Innervation by W-type retinal ganglion cells of superior colliculus neurons projecting to pulvinar nuclei in cats. Neurons of the cat superior colliculus (SC) sending their axons to the pulvinar nuclei were identified electrophysiologically as the ones responding antidromically to electrical stimulation of the pulvinar nuclei. They were located in the superficial layers of SC and found to be innervated by axons of W-type ganglion cells of the retina.", "PMID": 446607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7654", "title": "Responses to stimulation of the peripheral end of the right splanchnic nerve in the conscious calf.", "content": "The ratio at which adrenaline and noradrenaline are released from the adrenal medulla in response to stimulation of the splanchnic nerve has been established in the conscious calf. The proportion of adrenaline:noradrenaline was closely similar to that in which the 2 amines are stored in the gland and released in response to other stimuli in conscious, but not anesthetized, calves.", "contents": "Responses to stimulation of the peripheral end of the right splanchnic nerve in the conscious calf. The ratio at which adrenaline and noradrenaline are released from the adrenal medulla in response to stimulation of the splanchnic nerve has been established in the conscious calf. The proportion of adrenaline:noradrenaline was closely similar to that in which the 2 amines are stored in the gland and released in response to other stimuli in conscious, but not anesthetized, calves.", "PMID": 446608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7655", "title": "Reduced deformability of erythrocytes exposed to hypercapnia.", "content": "The effect of hypercapnia on the deformability of erythrocytes was studied by means of a nuclepore membrane filter method. A decrement of the deformability by 20--40% was observed when PCO2 was increased from 50 mm Hg to 200 mm Hg, accompanied with an increment of 5% in hematocrit value.", "contents": "Reduced deformability of erythrocytes exposed to hypercapnia. The effect of hypercapnia on the deformability of erythrocytes was studied by means of a nuclepore membrane filter method. A decrement of the deformability by 20--40% was observed when PCO2 was increased from 50 mm Hg to 200 mm Hg, accompanied with an increment of 5% in hematocrit value.", "PMID": 446609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7656", "title": "Monolayer cultures of perikarya isolated from postnatal rat cerebellum.", "content": "Viable cerebellar perikarya of mixed cell type obtained from 7--9-day-old rats were maintained in monolayer cutlure for up to 12 days. During this time extensive neurite formation and outgrowth occurred. The large majority of the cells developing in culture were tentatively identified as granule neurons. This identification was based on the large number isolated from the starting tissue, and the cells' general morphological features in culture such as perikaryal and nuclear size, the bipolar nature of neurite extension, and their migratory behaviour.", "contents": "Monolayer cultures of perikarya isolated from postnatal rat cerebellum. Viable cerebellar perikarya of mixed cell type obtained from 7--9-day-old rats were maintained in monolayer cutlure for up to 12 days. During this time extensive neurite formation and outgrowth occurred. The large majority of the cells developing in culture were tentatively identified as granule neurons. This identification was based on the large number isolated from the starting tissue, and the cells' general morphological features in culture such as perikaryal and nuclear size, the bipolar nature of neurite extension, and their migratory behaviour.", "PMID": 446610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7657", "title": "Unexpected features of the interaction between individual primary afferents and spinal motoneurones.", "content": "Simultaneous intracellular recording from spinal motoneurone and dorsal root fibres afferent to it in the isolated amphibian cord revealed a specific correlation between the slow spontaneous depolarizing activity in motoneurones and primary afferents.", "contents": "Unexpected features of the interaction between individual primary afferents and spinal motoneurones. Simultaneous intracellular recording from spinal motoneurone and dorsal root fibres afferent to it in the isolated amphibian cord revealed a specific correlation between the slow spontaneous depolarizing activity in motoneurones and primary afferents.", "PMID": 446611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7658", "title": "Spontaneous miniature potentials in primary afferent fibres.", "content": "Intracellular recording from primary afferent fibres of the isolated frog spinal cord revealed the existence of spontaneous synaptic activity, related probably to the firing of presynaptic inhibitory fibres.", "contents": "Spontaneous miniature potentials in primary afferent fibres. Intracellular recording from primary afferent fibres of the isolated frog spinal cord revealed the existence of spontaneous synaptic activity, related probably to the firing of presynaptic inhibitory fibres.", "PMID": 446612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7659", "title": "High K+-induced release of somatostatin from the cortical preparation of rat brain.", "content": "Release of endogenous somatostatin (SRIF) from the rat cerebral cortical slices incubated in Krebs-bicarbonate buffer was increased from the basal rate of 3.4 +/- 0.6% of the total SRIF content in 15 min at [K+]o = 5.6 mM, to 13.1 +/- 1.6% upon raising the [K+]o to 56.6 mM. The high-K+ evoked SRIF release was absent when Ca++ in the medium was replaced by Mn++. The isolated synaptosomes from rat cerebral cortex contain 13.2 +/- 3.1 ng SRIF/mg protein compared to 0.33 +/- 0.01 ng/mg protein in the cortical tissue as a whole, suggesting that nerve terminals are the main source of the peptide released upon membrane depolarization.", "contents": "High K+-induced release of somatostatin from the cortical preparation of rat brain. Release of endogenous somatostatin (SRIF) from the rat cerebral cortical slices incubated in Krebs-bicarbonate buffer was increased from the basal rate of 3.4 +/- 0.6% of the total SRIF content in 15 min at [K+]o = 5.6 mM, to 13.1 +/- 1.6% upon raising the [K+]o to 56.6 mM. The high-K+ evoked SRIF release was absent when Ca++ in the medium was replaced by Mn++. The isolated synaptosomes from rat cerebral cortex contain 13.2 +/- 3.1 ng SRIF/mg protein compared to 0.33 +/- 0.01 ng/mg protein in the cortical tissue as a whole, suggesting that nerve terminals are the main source of the peptide released upon membrane depolarization.", "PMID": 446613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7660", "title": "Effects of D-alpha-aminoadipate on physiologically evoked responses of cat dorsal horn neurones.", "content": "Microelectrophoretic administration of D-alpha-aminoadipate reversibly reduced excitatory responses of cat dorsal horn neurones evoked by iontophoretic glutamate and non-noxious peripheral stimuli but did not influence similar responses evoked by noxious peripheral stimuli or iontophoretic substance P.", "contents": "Effects of D-alpha-aminoadipate on physiologically evoked responses of cat dorsal horn neurones. Microelectrophoretic administration of D-alpha-aminoadipate reversibly reduced excitatory responses of cat dorsal horn neurones evoked by iontophoretic glutamate and non-noxious peripheral stimuli but did not influence similar responses evoked by noxious peripheral stimuli or iontophoretic substance P.", "PMID": 446614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7661", "title": "Stimulus-response function at several levels of background luminance, in the cat visual areas 17 and 18.", "content": "Stimulus-response curves of simple cells of the visual cortex were obtained by using 500-msec stationary stimuli. Background influence on single unit responses was studied. The contrast sensitivity of simple cells increases as a function of background luminance. The resolution power of these cortical cells for detecting differences in stimulus contrast decreases at background levels above 0.09 cd/m2.", "contents": "Stimulus-response function at several levels of background luminance, in the cat visual areas 17 and 18. Stimulus-response curves of simple cells of the visual cortex were obtained by using 500-msec stationary stimuli. Background influence on single unit responses was studied. The contrast sensitivity of simple cells increases as a function of background luminance. The resolution power of these cortical cells for detecting differences in stimulus contrast decreases at background levels above 0.09 cd/m2.", "PMID": 446615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7662", "title": "Effects of hypothalamic injections of 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine on thermoregulation in rats.", "content": "5,6-Dihydroxytryptamine, a serotonin depletor, infused directly into the anterior hypothalamus of rat's brain, produced an increase in both heat production and heat loss (as indicated by changes in peripheral circulation) at temperatures of 8, 15 and 22 degrees C. The rectal temperature of these treated rats remained constant.", "contents": "Effects of hypothalamic injections of 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine on thermoregulation in rats. 5,6-Dihydroxytryptamine, a serotonin depletor, infused directly into the anterior hypothalamus of rat's brain, produced an increase in both heat production and heat loss (as indicated by changes in peripheral circulation) at temperatures of 8, 15 and 22 degrees C. The rectal temperature of these treated rats remained constant.", "PMID": 446616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7663", "title": "Changes in rat erythrocyte membrane induced by delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol, scanning electron microscope study.", "content": "Although some biochemical dose-dependent effects are revealed in erythrocytes exposed to delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) already at concentrations well below 10 microM, marked morphological changes of the erythrocyte membrane become evident, by scanning electron microscopy, only at THC concentrations beyond 15 microM. These observations provide evidence additional to previous chemical and physical studies, in which 15 microM is found to be a critical concentration with respect to the effects of TCH on erythrocyte membrane.", "contents": "Changes in rat erythrocyte membrane induced by delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol, scanning electron microscope study. Although some biochemical dose-dependent effects are revealed in erythrocytes exposed to delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) already at concentrations well below 10 microM, marked morphological changes of the erythrocyte membrane become evident, by scanning electron microscopy, only at THC concentrations beyond 15 microM. These observations provide evidence additional to previous chemical and physical studies, in which 15 microM is found to be a critical concentration with respect to the effects of TCH on erythrocyte membrane.", "PMID": 446617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7664", "title": "Electrophysiological actions of chlorimipramine on guinea-pig ventricular fibres.", "content": "Chlorimipramine (CMI, 1 x 10(-5)M to 7 X 10(-5)M) decreased the amplitude, overshoot and rate of rise of ventricular action potentials and abolished the Ca-mediated action potentials elicited in guinea-pig papillary muscles. These results indicates that CMI inhibits the rise in sodium and calcium conductances during the cardiac action potential.", "contents": "Electrophysiological actions of chlorimipramine on guinea-pig ventricular fibres. Chlorimipramine (CMI, 1 x 10(-5)M to 7 X 10(-5)M) decreased the amplitude, overshoot and rate of rise of ventricular action potentials and abolished the Ca-mediated action potentials elicited in guinea-pig papillary muscles. These results indicates that CMI inhibits the rise in sodium and calcium conductances during the cardiac action potential.", "PMID": 446618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7665", "title": "Effect of ethanol on levels of isoniazid, sulfanilamide and sulfapyridin in mouse blood.", "content": "The effect of ethanol of blood levels of free and conjugated sulfonamides (sulfanilamide and sulfapyridin) and isoniazid was investigated in mice. Ethanol (1.5 and 4 mg/g i.v.) enhanced the amount of conjugated isoniazid without affecting the total amount of isoniazid in blood, and tended to raise the total amount of the sulfonamides.", "contents": "Effect of ethanol on levels of isoniazid, sulfanilamide and sulfapyridin in mouse blood. The effect of ethanol of blood levels of free and conjugated sulfonamides (sulfanilamide and sulfapyridin) and isoniazid was investigated in mice. Ethanol (1.5 and 4 mg/g i.v.) enhanced the amount of conjugated isoniazid without affecting the total amount of isoniazid in blood, and tended to raise the total amount of the sulfonamides.", "PMID": 446619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7666", "title": "Pharmacological studies of a new analgesic, dl-erythro-1-phenyl-2-(o-chlorophenyl)-2-[4-(p-methoxybenzyl)-1-piperazinyl] ethanol dihydrochloride, in experimental animals.", "content": "dl-Erythro-1-phenyl-2-(o-chlorophenyl)-2-[4-(p-methoxybenzyl)-1-piperazinyl] ethanol dihydrochloride showed orally a definite analgesic activity, without producing the significant morphine-like physical dependence liability, and its analgesic potency was about a half that of codeine and far superior to aminopyrine in experimental animals.", "contents": "Pharmacological studies of a new analgesic, dl-erythro-1-phenyl-2-(o-chlorophenyl)-2-[4-(p-methoxybenzyl)-1-piperazinyl] ethanol dihydrochloride, in experimental animals. dl-Erythro-1-phenyl-2-(o-chlorophenyl)-2-[4-(p-methoxybenzyl)-1-piperazinyl] ethanol dihydrochloride showed orally a definite analgesic activity, without producing the significant morphine-like physical dependence liability, and its analgesic potency was about a half that of codeine and far superior to aminopyrine in experimental animals.", "PMID": 446620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7667", "title": "Gill lesions in Cichlid fishes after intoxication with the insecticide Fenthion.", "content": "The toxic effects of Fenthion on the gills of Cichlid fishes were investigated. In Herotilapia multispinosa hyperplasia and separation of the respiratory epithelium, lamellar telangiectasis and thrombosis occurred. The lamellar epithelium of surviving fish regenerated in all cases. In Tilapia leucosticta no telangiectasis was found, but all the secondary lamellae were fused due to the severe hyperplasia of the gill epithelium.", "contents": "Gill lesions in Cichlid fishes after intoxication with the insecticide Fenthion. The toxic effects of Fenthion on the gills of Cichlid fishes were investigated. In Herotilapia multispinosa hyperplasia and separation of the respiratory epithelium, lamellar telangiectasis and thrombosis occurred. The lamellar epithelium of surviving fish regenerated in all cases. In Tilapia leucosticta no telangiectasis was found, but all the secondary lamellae were fused due to the severe hyperplasia of the gill epithelium.", "PMID": 446621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7668", "title": "The effects of physostigmine on the oxygen uptake in rat brain tissue.", "content": "Physostigmine in a dose of 0.1 mg/kg i.v. expressly stimulated the oxygen uptake in the rat cerebral cortex. This effect was blocked by propranolol and seems be mediated by catecholamines. Since atropine also antagonized the stimulant effect of physostigmine, it appears that the action of physostigmine is primarily cholinergic and that the adrenergic effect is a secondary phenomenon. The higher dose of physostigmine (0.4 mg/kg i.v.) caused a depression of rat brain oxygen uptake.", "contents": "The effects of physostigmine on the oxygen uptake in rat brain tissue. Physostigmine in a dose of 0.1 mg/kg i.v. expressly stimulated the oxygen uptake in the rat cerebral cortex. This effect was blocked by propranolol and seems be mediated by catecholamines. Since atropine also antagonized the stimulant effect of physostigmine, it appears that the action of physostigmine is primarily cholinergic and that the adrenergic effect is a secondary phenomenon. The higher dose of physostigmine (0.4 mg/kg i.v.) caused a depression of rat brain oxygen uptake.", "PMID": 446622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7669", "title": "Effect of dichloromethane on the sciatic motor conduction velocity of rats.", "content": "There is a correlation between dichloromethane dosis (X) of 1--6 mmole/kg administered i.p. to rats and the sciatic motor conduction velocity (Y): Y = 57.1--1.091 X. The correlation coefficient 'r' is 0.437 (p less than 0.01). Presumably, the decrease of nerve conduction velocity is caused by the endogenous carbon monoxide production due to dichloromethane biotransformation.", "contents": "Effect of dichloromethane on the sciatic motor conduction velocity of rats. There is a correlation between dichloromethane dosis (X) of 1--6 mmole/kg administered i.p. to rats and the sciatic motor conduction velocity (Y): Y = 57.1--1.091 X. The correlation coefficient 'r' is 0.437 (p less than 0.01). Presumably, the decrease of nerve conduction velocity is caused by the endogenous carbon monoxide production due to dichloromethane biotransformation.", "PMID": 446623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7670", "title": "Cell death and phagocytosis in the neuroepithelium of the developing retina. A TEM and SEM study.", "content": "Phagocytosis by neuroepithelial cells independent of the presence of pseudopodes is observed as the main mechanism of elimination of physiologically degenerating cells during the early development of the retina in the chick embryo.", "contents": "Cell death and phagocytosis in the neuroepithelium of the developing retina. A TEM and SEM study. Phagocytosis by neuroepithelial cells independent of the presence of pseudopodes is observed as the main mechanism of elimination of physiologically degenerating cells during the early development of the retina in the chick embryo.", "PMID": 446624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7671", "title": "Cholinesterase in the atherosclerotic intima and in fibroblast cultures.", "content": "Cholinesterase activity was present in the atheromatous plaque of the rabbit's atherosclerotic aorta. Cholinesterase activity was significantly increased in rat fibroblast cultures grown in the presence of hypercholesterolemic serum. Cholesterol ester synthesis in these cultures was inhibited by neostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor.", "contents": "Cholinesterase in the atherosclerotic intima and in fibroblast cultures. Cholinesterase activity was present in the atheromatous plaque of the rabbit's atherosclerotic aorta. Cholinesterase activity was significantly increased in rat fibroblast cultures grown in the presence of hypercholesterolemic serum. Cholesterol ester synthesis in these cultures was inhibited by neostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor.", "PMID": 446625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7672", "title": "Induction of lymphomas by urethane in combination with diethylstilboestrol in CFLP mice.", "content": "The combination of urethane and the non-steroidal oestrogen diethylstilboestrol induced lymphomas in CFLP mice.", "contents": "Induction of lymphomas by urethane in combination with diethylstilboestrol in CFLP mice. The combination of urethane and the non-steroidal oestrogen diethylstilboestrol induced lymphomas in CFLP mice.", "PMID": 446626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7673", "title": "Quantitative histological study of spinal afferent innervation on the ventral surface of the cat stomach by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) method.", "content": "Retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was applied to the ventral surface of the cat stomach. We investigated the number, size and distribution of HRP-positive cells in spinal ganglia. The unexpected finding was the wide distribution of these cells from T3 down to L3. This would result in a diffuse pattern of referred pain.", "contents": "Quantitative histological study of spinal afferent innervation on the ventral surface of the cat stomach by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) method. Retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was applied to the ventral surface of the cat stomach. We investigated the number, size and distribution of HRP-positive cells in spinal ganglia. The unexpected finding was the wide distribution of these cells from T3 down to L3. This would result in a diffuse pattern of referred pain.", "PMID": 446627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7674", "title": "Demonstration of cross reaction between anti-macrophage antibodies and mononuclear mesodermal cells.", "content": "An anti-macrophage antiserum to rat peritoneal macrophages was prepared in rabbits. The antibodies produced showed cross reaction with perivascular adventitial macrophages, with macrophages in thymus and spleen, and with brain microglial cells.", "contents": "Demonstration of cross reaction between anti-macrophage antibodies and mononuclear mesodermal cells. An anti-macrophage antiserum to rat peritoneal macrophages was prepared in rabbits. The antibodies produced showed cross reaction with perivascular adventitial macrophages, with macrophages in thymus and spleen, and with brain microglial cells.", "PMID": 446628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7675", "title": "Carcinogenicity examination of betel nuts and piper betel leaves.", "content": "A dry powder of betel nuts, piper betel leaves and lime was administered to rats. Epidermal thickening was frequently observed in the upper digestive tracts of rats in groups fed the betel nut diet mixed with lime and the betel leaves diet, and a forestomach papilloma was seen in 1 rat given betel leaves diet. These epidermal changes were scarcely seen in rats given either betel nut or normal diet alone.", "contents": "Carcinogenicity examination of betel nuts and piper betel leaves. A dry powder of betel nuts, piper betel leaves and lime was administered to rats. Epidermal thickening was frequently observed in the upper digestive tracts of rats in groups fed the betel nut diet mixed with lime and the betel leaves diet, and a forestomach papilloma was seen in 1 rat given betel leaves diet. These epidermal changes were scarcely seen in rats given either betel nut or normal diet alone.", "PMID": 446629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7676", "title": "Effects of 9.4 GHz microwave exposure on meiosis in mice.", "content": "Exposure to 9.4 GHz pulsed microwaves at low power densities for 1 h/day during 2 weeks induces in adult male Balb/c mice disturbances in meiosis, consisting in an increase of translocations and the appearance of cells with several chromosome pair remaining univalents at MI.", "contents": "Effects of 9.4 GHz microwave exposure on meiosis in mice. Exposure to 9.4 GHz pulsed microwaves at low power densities for 1 h/day during 2 weeks induces in adult male Balb/c mice disturbances in meiosis, consisting in an increase of translocations and the appearance of cells with several chromosome pair remaining univalents at MI.", "PMID": 446630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7677", "title": "Quantitative ultrastructural features of maturing mononuclear phagocytes in rat peritoneal fluids.", "content": "Ultrastructural features of the in vivo transformation of macrophage congeners in resident and adjuvant-induced peritoneal populations are evaluated by sterological methods. Maturation involves an increase in cell size by the differential hypertrophy of subcellular compartments, notably remaining cytoplasm, nucleus and lysosome-like granules. Larger cells have more and larger granules, more mitochondria and a greater plasmalemmal surface. In contrast, adjuvant activation tends to produce fewer granules and a nett loss of surface membrane.", "contents": "Quantitative ultrastructural features of maturing mononuclear phagocytes in rat peritoneal fluids. Ultrastructural features of the in vivo transformation of macrophage congeners in resident and adjuvant-induced peritoneal populations are evaluated by sterological methods. Maturation involves an increase in cell size by the differential hypertrophy of subcellular compartments, notably remaining cytoplasm, nucleus and lysosome-like granules. Larger cells have more and larger granules, more mitochondria and a greater plasmalemmal surface. In contrast, adjuvant activation tends to produce fewer granules and a nett loss of surface membrane.", "PMID": 446631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7678", "title": "Frequency and distribution of tubulo-filamentous nuclear inclusions in the celiac ganglion of the cat as revealed by serial sections.", "content": "On sections at random of a cat celiac ganglion we counted 68 sections of nuclear inclusions (NI) for 320 sections of neuronal nuclei, i.e. an \"apparent' frequency of 0.20. As revealed by serial sections the \"actual' frequency is higher since the 5 nuclei entirely explored exhibit 19 NI. Such a study shows that each nucleus may contain at least 3 and up to 5 different tubulo-filamentous NI.", "contents": "Frequency and distribution of tubulo-filamentous nuclear inclusions in the celiac ganglion of the cat as revealed by serial sections. On sections at random of a cat celiac ganglion we counted 68 sections of nuclear inclusions (NI) for 320 sections of neuronal nuclei, i.e. an \"apparent' frequency of 0.20. As revealed by serial sections the \"actual' frequency is higher since the 5 nuclei entirely explored exhibit 19 NI. Such a study shows that each nucleus may contain at least 3 and up to 5 different tubulo-filamentous NI.", "PMID": 446632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7679", "title": "Prefrontal cortex of the cat: evidence for an additional area.", "content": "Direct projections from the mediodorsal nucleus of the thalamus to ventral parts of the insular region of the cat's cortex were demonstrated by using the horseradish peroxidase technique.", "contents": "Prefrontal cortex of the cat: evidence for an additional area. Direct projections from the mediodorsal nucleus of the thalamus to ventral parts of the insular region of the cat's cortex were demonstrated by using the horseradish peroxidase technique.", "PMID": 446633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7680", "title": "Changes in the plasma membrane surface of lymphocytes stimulated in vivo with DNCB.", "content": "Stereological principles have been used to evaluate ultrastructural changes which accompany the transformation of lymphocytes stimulated in vivo with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Whereas unstimulated lymphocytes and blast cells have slightly more than the minimal containing plasmalemmal surface for their volume, stimulated (blast-derived) lymphocytes have an excess surface area in the order of 30%. This observation is discussed in the context of altered cell function and the biosynthesis of additional membrane components.", "contents": "Changes in the plasma membrane surface of lymphocytes stimulated in vivo with DNCB. Stereological principles have been used to evaluate ultrastructural changes which accompany the transformation of lymphocytes stimulated in vivo with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Whereas unstimulated lymphocytes and blast cells have slightly more than the minimal containing plasmalemmal surface for their volume, stimulated (blast-derived) lymphocytes have an excess surface area in the order of 30%. This observation is discussed in the context of altered cell function and the biosynthesis of additional membrane components.", "PMID": 446634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7681", "title": "Innervation of the ovarian interstitial cell of the chick embryo.", "content": "Electron microscopic examination of the developing ovary of 15-20-day chick embryos revealed that the interstital cells well innervated. Nerve fibres and nerve endings were observed in close contact with steroid-producing cells.", "contents": "Innervation of the ovarian interstitial cell of the chick embryo. Electron microscopic examination of the developing ovary of 15-20-day chick embryos revealed that the interstital cells well innervated. Nerve fibres and nerve endings were observed in close contact with steroid-producing cells.", "PMID": 446635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7682", "title": "Effect of colicin E3 on leukemia cells P388 in vitro.", "content": "Proliferation of murine leukemia cells P388 is stimulated by less than 1.0 mg/ml colicin E3, while being inhibited by higher concentrations. By 1.6 mg/ml colicin E3, uptake of thymidine into cold TCA-precipitable fraction is decreased by 59% during 24 h, uptake of uridine by 29%.", "contents": "Effect of colicin E3 on leukemia cells P388 in vitro. Proliferation of murine leukemia cells P388 is stimulated by less than 1.0 mg/ml colicin E3, while being inhibited by higher concentrations. By 1.6 mg/ml colicin E3, uptake of thymidine into cold TCA-precipitable fraction is decreased by 59% during 24 h, uptake of uridine by 29%.", "PMID": 446636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7683", "title": "Reduction of serum X-prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activity in tumour-bearing mice and reversal of reduced enzyme activity by lentinan, an anti-tumour polysaccharide.", "content": "Serum X-prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activity which had been shown to be depressed in cancer patients was clearly reduced in mice with Ehrlich carcinoma and Sarcoma 180, and slightly reduced in mice with methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas. The reduced enzyme activity was completely reversed during tumour regression of sarcoma 180 by administration of lentinan, which causes regression of sarcoma 180.", "contents": "Reduction of serum X-prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activity in tumour-bearing mice and reversal of reduced enzyme activity by lentinan, an anti-tumour polysaccharide. Serum X-prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activity which had been shown to be depressed in cancer patients was clearly reduced in mice with Ehrlich carcinoma and Sarcoma 180, and slightly reduced in mice with methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas. The reduced enzyme activity was completely reversed during tumour regression of sarcoma 180 by administration of lentinan, which causes regression of sarcoma 180.", "PMID": 446637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7684", "title": "Local adjuvants: the influence of sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate on immunization with aerosolized antigen.", "content": "Guinea-pig respiratory and serum antibody responses were enhanced following exposure to aerosols of bovine IgG2 dissolved in solutions of sodium dodecylbenzene sulphate (SDBS). Enhanced response was seen in both primary and secondary immunization. Cell-mediated immune response (indirect macrophage migration influencing test) was not altered by SDBS. Results are discussed with a view to the possible utility of SDBS as adjuvant for prophylactic immunization.", "contents": "Local adjuvants: the influence of sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate on immunization with aerosolized antigen. Guinea-pig respiratory and serum antibody responses were enhanced following exposure to aerosols of bovine IgG2 dissolved in solutions of sodium dodecylbenzene sulphate (SDBS). Enhanced response was seen in both primary and secondary immunization. Cell-mediated immune response (indirect macrophage migration influencing test) was not altered by SDBS. Results are discussed with a view to the possible utility of SDBS as adjuvant for prophylactic immunization.", "PMID": 446638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7685", "title": "Circadian variation in urinary melatonin in clinically healthy women in Japan and the United States of America.", "content": "Urinary melatonin excretion is lower in East-Asian (Japanese) than in North-American (whites of mixed ethnic origin) women. Moreover, a statistically significant circadian rhythm is demonstrated by population-mean cosinor in the data pool from both groups of women. Furthermore, statistical significance characterizes interactions of effects from geographic differences (between ethnic groups) with temporal factors. Such spatio-temporal interactions await further scrutiny with a view inter alia of carcinogenesis as it is influenced by a spectrum of intermodulating rhythms.", "contents": "Circadian variation in urinary melatonin in clinically healthy women in Japan and the United States of America. Urinary melatonin excretion is lower in East-Asian (Japanese) than in North-American (whites of mixed ethnic origin) women. Moreover, a statistically significant circadian rhythm is demonstrated by population-mean cosinor in the data pool from both groups of women. Furthermore, statistical significance characterizes interactions of effects from geographic differences (between ethnic groups) with temporal factors. Such spatio-temporal interactions await further scrutiny with a view inter alia of carcinogenesis as it is influenced by a spectrum of intermodulating rhythms.", "PMID": 446639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7686", "title": "A study of the enzyme activity in the seminal vesicles of castrated and hormone-replaced castrated mice.", "content": "Castration provokes a time-related decrease in weight, protein, beta-glucuronidase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity of seminal vesicles. A dose-dependent stimulation of these parameters is obtained with 5alpha-DHT. Cryproterone acetate counteracts the stimulatory effects due to androgen. Acid and alkaline phosphatases remain largely unaffected by these treatments.", "contents": "A study of the enzyme activity in the seminal vesicles of castrated and hormone-replaced castrated mice. Castration provokes a time-related decrease in weight, protein, beta-glucuronidase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity of seminal vesicles. A dose-dependent stimulation of these parameters is obtained with 5alpha-DHT. Cryproterone acetate counteracts the stimulatory effects due to androgen. Acid and alkaline phosphatases remain largely unaffected by these treatments.", "PMID": 446640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7687", "title": "A new simple assay for total blood lipids by refractometry.", "content": "A fast simple method for assay of total blood lipids has been devised by precipitating blood proteins with methanol and extracting lipids into diethyl ether. The change in refractive index of the methanol-ether due to dissolved lipids is measured in a refractometer.", "contents": "A new simple assay for total blood lipids by refractometry. A fast simple method for assay of total blood lipids has been devised by precipitating blood proteins with methanol and extracting lipids into diethyl ether. The change in refractive index of the methanol-ether due to dissolved lipids is measured in a refractometer.", "PMID": 446641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7688", "title": "The morphology of cytoplasts and karyoplasts produced by cytochalasin D.", "content": "The denucleation of L cells and human lymphocytes in suspension was carried out by incubation with cytochalasin D25 and 50 microgram/ml and with ultracentrifugation over a discontinuous Ficoll gradient. Ultrastructural examination of the separate layers confirmed the presence of the anucleate cytoplasm (cytoplasts) with intact membrane and the separated nuclei (karyoplasts).", "contents": "The morphology of cytoplasts and karyoplasts produced by cytochalasin D. The denucleation of L cells and human lymphocytes in suspension was carried out by incubation with cytochalasin D25 and 50 microgram/ml and with ultracentrifugation over a discontinuous Ficoll gradient. Ultrastructural examination of the separate layers confirmed the presence of the anucleate cytoplasm (cytoplasts) with intact membrane and the separated nuclei (karyoplasts).", "PMID": 446642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7689", "title": "Sectioning of polyacrylamide slab gels with a modified small animal stereotaxic instrument.", "content": "A simple and inexpensive modification of the Kopf model 900 small animal stereotaxic instrument allows it to be used temporarily as a precision polyacrylamide slab gel slicer.", "contents": "Sectioning of polyacrylamide slab gels with a modified small animal stereotaxic instrument. A simple and inexpensive modification of the Kopf model 900 small animal stereotaxic instrument allows it to be used temporarily as a precision polyacrylamide slab gel slicer.", "PMID": 446643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7690", "title": "Leonurine, an improved synthesis.", "content": "Leonurine (1) is the uterotonic principle of Leonurus artemisia. We have developed a simple, high-yield synthetic procedure of 1 that is adaptable to large scale preparation. The synthesis involves the condensation of syringic acid and 4-guanidino-1-butanol hydrochloride in the presence of DDC using 1:1 HMPT-ether as solvent. The synthetic leonurine showed uterotonic activity in vivo and in vitro.", "contents": "Leonurine, an improved synthesis. Leonurine (1) is the uterotonic principle of Leonurus artemisia. We have developed a simple, high-yield synthetic procedure of 1 that is adaptable to large scale preparation. The synthesis involves the condensation of syringic acid and 4-guanidino-1-butanol hydrochloride in the presence of DDC using 1:1 HMPT-ether as solvent. The synthetic leonurine showed uterotonic activity in vivo and in vitro.", "PMID": 446644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7691", "title": "Altered or increased transfer-RNA methylation in the course of Interferon action on cells in culture?", "content": "The induction of the antiviral state by Interferon might reflect the decrease of the rate of biosynthesis, the degradation or the alteration of one or several tRNAs. This could result in rate-limiting concentrations for codons common in viral RNA but rare in host mRNA. Altered methylation of tRNA could be the basis of such a phenomenon. However, we could not find an altered extent of methylation of total tRNA or an altered pattern of methylation, if mixed tRNAs were chromatographed on MAK- or BD-cellulose columns, despite a large range of conditions of pretreatment of chick embryo fibroblast cultures with interferon.", "contents": "Altered or increased transfer-RNA methylation in the course of Interferon action on cells in culture? The induction of the antiviral state by Interferon might reflect the decrease of the rate of biosynthesis, the degradation or the alteration of one or several tRNAs. This could result in rate-limiting concentrations for codons common in viral RNA but rare in host mRNA. Altered methylation of tRNA could be the basis of such a phenomenon. However, we could not find an altered extent of methylation of total tRNA or an altered pattern of methylation, if mixed tRNAs were chromatographed on MAK- or BD-cellulose columns, despite a large range of conditions of pretreatment of chick embryo fibroblast cultures with interferon.", "PMID": 446645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7692", "title": "Polyamines as activators of AMP nucleosidase from Azotobacter vinelandii.", "content": "Polyamines at physiological concentrations activate AMP nucleosidase from Azotobacter vinelandii. Biological significance of the activation is discussed in relation to the control of adenylate energy charge and the purine nucleotide synthesis in prokaryotes.", "contents": "Polyamines as activators of AMP nucleosidase from Azotobacter vinelandii. Polyamines at physiological concentrations activate AMP nucleosidase from Azotobacter vinelandii. Biological significance of the activation is discussed in relation to the control of adenylate energy charge and the purine nucleotide synthesis in prokaryotes.", "PMID": 446646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7693", "title": "Circadian activity of rat kidney enzymes.", "content": "Alkaline phosphatase, LAP, beta-glucuronidase and cathepsin D activities and protein content of the kidney homogenate did not show any circadian rhythm in animals sacrificed at different hours of the day. The fluctuations of maltase appear modest and not dependent on a ligh/dark cycle.", "contents": "Circadian activity of rat kidney enzymes. Alkaline phosphatase, LAP, beta-glucuronidase and cathepsin D activities and protein content of the kidney homogenate did not show any circadian rhythm in animals sacrificed at different hours of the day. The fluctuations of maltase appear modest and not dependent on a ligh/dark cycle.", "PMID": 446647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7694", "title": "Diethylmesoxalate hydrate, a new irreversible inhibitor of cholinesterases.", "content": "Bovine erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and human plasma cholinesterase are irreversibly inhibited by diethylmesoxalate hydrate, the inhibition potency being comparable to that of certian insecticidal organophosphates and carbamates. Insect cholinesterases, however, appear to be much less affected by diethylmesoxalate hydrate. The compound was also found to inhibit the hydrolysis of paraoxon by rabbit plasma A-esterase, but in a reversible mode.", "contents": "Diethylmesoxalate hydrate, a new irreversible inhibitor of cholinesterases. Bovine erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and human plasma cholinesterase are irreversibly inhibited by diethylmesoxalate hydrate, the inhibition potency being comparable to that of certian insecticidal organophosphates and carbamates. Insect cholinesterases, however, appear to be much less affected by diethylmesoxalate hydrate. The compound was also found to inhibit the hydrolysis of paraoxon by rabbit plasma A-esterase, but in a reversible mode.", "PMID": 446648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7695", "title": "Effect of solubilization of Salmonella minnesota Re glycolipid on its interferon-induced activity.", "content": "Electrodialysis of Salmonella minnesota Re glycolipid, or exposure to 0.2 M EDTA, pH 7.0, yields products capable of eliciting interferon production at concentrations 10-fold lower than that of the original glycolipid.", "contents": "Effect of solubilization of Salmonella minnesota Re glycolipid on its interferon-induced activity. Electrodialysis of Salmonella minnesota Re glycolipid, or exposure to 0.2 M EDTA, pH 7.0, yields products capable of eliciting interferon production at concentrations 10-fold lower than that of the original glycolipid.", "PMID": 446649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7696", "title": "Persistence of body weight cycles in dormice maintained with a limited food supply.", "content": "Dormice kept under food restriction for several months continued to exhibit body weight cycles with characteristic periods of about 2 months, despite an impaired ability to attain the high body weight levels observed in ad libitum conditions. These results imply that the cycle is controlled by a mechanism whose properties are more consistent with asn endogenous oscillator than with a sequence of stages, in which the relevant stages are defined by upper and lower body weight limits.", "contents": "Persistence of body weight cycles in dormice maintained with a limited food supply. Dormice kept under food restriction for several months continued to exhibit body weight cycles with characteristic periods of about 2 months, despite an impaired ability to attain the high body weight levels observed in ad libitum conditions. These results imply that the cycle is controlled by a mechanism whose properties are more consistent with asn endogenous oscillator than with a sequence of stages, in which the relevant stages are defined by upper and lower body weight limits.", "PMID": 446650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7697", "title": "Ketoconazole -- a new broad spectrum orally active antimycotic.", "content": "Oral treatment with ketoconazole prevented and cured artificial crop candidosis of the turkey, vaginal candidosis of the rat and skin candidosis of the guinea-pig. It was also highly effective against artificial systemic candidosis of the guinea-pig and chicken as well as against dermatophytoses of the guinea-pig.", "contents": "Ketoconazole -- a new broad spectrum orally active antimycotic. Oral treatment with ketoconazole prevented and cured artificial crop candidosis of the turkey, vaginal candidosis of the rat and skin candidosis of the guinea-pig. It was also highly effective against artificial systemic candidosis of the guinea-pig and chicken as well as against dermatophytoses of the guinea-pig.", "PMID": 446651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7698", "title": "Adhesion of human red blood cells to polystyrene. Influence of sodium chloride concentration and of neuraminidase treatment.", "content": "The adhesion on polystyrene of glutaraldehyde-fixed human red blood cells was found to increase with NaCl concentration. Half of the maximum of irreversible adhesion was obtained in 2.2 mM NaCl for neuraminidase-treated cells and in 5.5 mM NaCl for the untreated cells.", "contents": "Adhesion of human red blood cells to polystyrene. Influence of sodium chloride concentration and of neuraminidase treatment. The adhesion on polystyrene of glutaraldehyde-fixed human red blood cells was found to increase with NaCl concentration. Half of the maximum of irreversible adhesion was obtained in 2.2 mM NaCl for neuraminidase-treated cells and in 5.5 mM NaCl for the untreated cells.", "PMID": 446652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7699", "title": "Circadian change of sweating rate measured locally by the resistance hygrometry method in man.", "content": "There existed circadian change in the sweating rate locally measured from the anterior of the left thigh: the sweating rate showed a remarkable decline during the period 2.00--5.00 h, while at other times throughout the day it generally remained high. This reduction seemed to be independent of sleep or sleeplessness.", "contents": "Circadian change of sweating rate measured locally by the resistance hygrometry method in man. There existed circadian change in the sweating rate locally measured from the anterior of the left thigh: the sweating rate showed a remarkable decline during the period 2.00--5.00 h, while at other times throughout the day it generally remained high. This reduction seemed to be independent of sleep or sleeplessness.", "PMID": 446653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7700", "title": "Distribution of microspheres of 15 +/- 5 micrometer diameter in dog kidneys.", "content": "The size distribution of plastic non-radioactive microspheres (MS) of 15 +/- 5 micrometer diameter in the dog kidney was investigated. No diameter-dependent redistribution of the MS was found.", "contents": "Distribution of microspheres of 15 +/- 5 micrometer diameter in dog kidneys. The size distribution of plastic non-radioactive microspheres (MS) of 15 +/- 5 micrometer diameter in the dog kidney was investigated. No diameter-dependent redistribution of the MS was found.", "PMID": 446654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7701", "title": "Catecholamine levels in newborn human plasma in normal and abnormal conditions and in maternal plasma at delivery.", "content": "High levels of catecholamines have been found in plasma from the umbilical cord of newborn infants, suggesting a release of catecholamine from the fetus during parturition. Plasma catecholamine levels are also elevated in mothers at delivery.", "contents": "Catecholamine levels in newborn human plasma in normal and abnormal conditions and in maternal plasma at delivery. High levels of catecholamines have been found in plasma from the umbilical cord of newborn infants, suggesting a release of catecholamine from the fetus during parturition. Plasma catecholamine levels are also elevated in mothers at delivery.", "PMID": 446655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7702", "title": "Direct evidence favouring the notion that erythropoietin alters iron transport across the isolated intestinal tract of the rat.", "content": "A simple and reproducible method, using the isolated not everted intestine of the rat, for the study of iron transport is presented. Erythropoietin (ESF) enhanced significantly the passage of 59Fe across the intestine augmenting its movement at mucosal and serosal layers of the intestinal well.", "contents": "Direct evidence favouring the notion that erythropoietin alters iron transport across the isolated intestinal tract of the rat. A simple and reproducible method, using the isolated not everted intestine of the rat, for the study of iron transport is presented. Erythropoietin (ESF) enhanced significantly the passage of 59Fe across the intestine augmenting its movement at mucosal and serosal layers of the intestinal well.", "PMID": 446656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7703", "title": "The ischemic and postischemic effect on the uptake of neutral amino acids in isolated cerebral capillaries.", "content": "The uptake of some neurtral amino acids was investigated in cerebral microvessels isolated from brains of gerbils subjected to bilateral cerebral ischemia with and without various periods of recovery. A transiently increased capillary uptake of 3H-isoleucine, 14C-cycloleucine and 3H-phenylalanine was found in both conditions.", "contents": "The ischemic and postischemic effect on the uptake of neutral amino acids in isolated cerebral capillaries. The uptake of some neurtral amino acids was investigated in cerebral microvessels isolated from brains of gerbils subjected to bilateral cerebral ischemia with and without various periods of recovery. A transiently increased capillary uptake of 3H-isoleucine, 14C-cycloleucine and 3H-phenylalanine was found in both conditions.", "PMID": 446657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7704", "title": "Nerve-growth promoting action of isaxonine in rat.", "content": "After sciatic nerve lesion by freezing, the length of the most rapidly regenerating fibres was significantly increased by i.p. injection of isaxonine (N-isopropyl-amino-2-pyrimidine orthophosphate) in the rat. A dose-effect relationship was demonstrated. Both sensory and motor function returned earlier in treated animals.", "contents": "Nerve-growth promoting action of isaxonine in rat. After sciatic nerve lesion by freezing, the length of the most rapidly regenerating fibres was significantly increased by i.p. injection of isaxonine (N-isopropyl-amino-2-pyrimidine orthophosphate) in the rat. A dose-effect relationship was demonstrated. Both sensory and motor function returned earlier in treated animals.", "PMID": 446658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7705", "title": "Cholecystokinin-like peptides in avian brain and gut.", "content": "Extracts of turkey brain and jejunum contain a factor closely resembling the COOH-terminal octapeptide of porcine cholecystokinin (CCK). Turkey antral extracts contain factors distinguishable in immunochemical and gel filtration properties from the mammalian forms of gastrin and CCK.", "contents": "Cholecystokinin-like peptides in avian brain and gut. Extracts of turkey brain and jejunum contain a factor closely resembling the COOH-terminal octapeptide of porcine cholecystokinin (CCK). Turkey antral extracts contain factors distinguishable in immunochemical and gel filtration properties from the mammalian forms of gastrin and CCK.", "PMID": 446660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7706", "title": "Comparative studies on the covalent binding of the carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene to DNA in various model systems.", "content": "The covalent binding of tritiated benzo(a)pyrene (BP) to DNA has been determined in rat liver in vivo, in rat liver perfused in situ, after incubation of BP with liver single cells, with liver homogenate, with liver microsomes and DNA, with fibroblasts from a rat granuloma pouch, and with 2 cell lines. Liver single cells were found to be a valuable compromise between the most sensitive system (microsomal incubation of BP and DNA) and the biologically most relevant system (in vivo).", "contents": "Comparative studies on the covalent binding of the carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene to DNA in various model systems. The covalent binding of tritiated benzo(a)pyrene (BP) to DNA has been determined in rat liver in vivo, in rat liver perfused in situ, after incubation of BP with liver single cells, with liver homogenate, with liver microsomes and DNA, with fibroblasts from a rat granuloma pouch, and with 2 cell lines. Liver single cells were found to be a valuable compromise between the most sensitive system (microsomal incubation of BP and DNA) and the biologically most relevant system (in vivo).", "PMID": 446661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7707", "title": "Anticholinesterase-like activity by oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) venom and venom sac extract.", "content": "Oriental hornet venom or venom sac extract produces pharmacological and toxicological effects typical of anticholinesterase agents. The effects produced in animals can be counteracted by atropine and heparin.", "contents": "Anticholinesterase-like activity by oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) venom and venom sac extract. Oriental hornet venom or venom sac extract produces pharmacological and toxicological effects typical of anticholinesterase agents. The effects produced in animals can be counteracted by atropine and heparin.", "PMID": 446663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7708", "title": "Ethanol reduces Ca2+ concentrations in arterial and venous smooth muscle.", "content": "The present results, using isolated rat aortic strips and portal vein segments, demonstrate that ethanol (170--430 mM) significantly inhibits calcium uptake in these 2 different types of vascular smooth muscle.", "contents": "Ethanol reduces Ca2+ concentrations in arterial and venous smooth muscle. The present results, using isolated rat aortic strips and portal vein segments, demonstrate that ethanol (170--430 mM) significantly inhibits calcium uptake in these 2 different types of vascular smooth muscle.", "PMID": 446664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7709", "title": "Effect of beta-phenylethylamine on intraocular pressure.", "content": "Upon injection of beta-phenylethylamine (PEA) into the subconjunctival space of rabbit, intraocular pressure increased. This effect went parallel with the amount of PEA transferred into the anterior chamber, which indicates that intraocular pressure was elevated by direct action of PEA.", "contents": "Effect of beta-phenylethylamine on intraocular pressure. Upon injection of beta-phenylethylamine (PEA) into the subconjunctival space of rabbit, intraocular pressure increased. This effect went parallel with the amount of PEA transferred into the anterior chamber, which indicates that intraocular pressure was elevated by direct action of PEA.", "PMID": 446665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7710", "title": "Toxic effect of cadmium nitrate on the liver of Channa punctatus.", "content": "Exposure of a fresh water fish, Channa punctatus, in a medium containing as low as 0.01 ppm of cadmium nitrate, resulted in the necrosis of hepatic cells. A temporary recovery of these cells was however observed when the animals were exposed to lower concentrations.", "contents": "Toxic effect of cadmium nitrate on the liver of Channa punctatus. Exposure of a fresh water fish, Channa punctatus, in a medium containing as low as 0.01 ppm of cadmium nitrate, resulted in the necrosis of hepatic cells. A temporary recovery of these cells was however observed when the animals were exposed to lower concentrations.", "PMID": 446666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7711", "title": "Baroreceptor and sympathetic responses to acebutolol, a beta 1-adrenoceptor-blocking agent, in rabbits.", "content": "Baroreceptor activity was increased after i.v. infusion of acebutolol in rabbits with an intact circulation, and in rabbits with a total cardiopulmonary by-pass. In rabbits with an intact circulation, renal nerve activity was reduced.", "contents": "Baroreceptor and sympathetic responses to acebutolol, a beta 1-adrenoceptor-blocking agent, in rabbits. Baroreceptor activity was increased after i.v. infusion of acebutolol in rabbits with an intact circulation, and in rabbits with a total cardiopulmonary by-pass. In rabbits with an intact circulation, renal nerve activity was reduced.", "PMID": 446667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7712", "title": "[Liver enlargement induced by oxythioquinox: effect of the fat content of the diet (author's transl)].", "content": "The relationship between the level of lipid calories in the diet and the effects of oxythioquinox, administered at 200 mg/kg fresh food, for 35 days, was studied on the liver enlargment of rat. The results show that the level lipid calories itself have no effect since, in the treated animals, the liver enlargement is due part to an increase of the water content and part to an increase of the size of the cells.", "contents": "[Liver enlargement induced by oxythioquinox: effect of the fat content of the diet (author's transl)]. The relationship between the level of lipid calories in the diet and the effects of oxythioquinox, administered at 200 mg/kg fresh food, for 35 days, was studied on the liver enlargment of rat. The results show that the level lipid calories itself have no effect since, in the treated animals, the liver enlargement is due part to an increase of the water content and part to an increase of the size of the cells.", "PMID": 446669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7713", "title": "Offset rate of action of muscarinic antagonists depends on their structural flexibility.", "content": "Time course measurements of the action of muscarinic antagonists were performed in the spontaneously beating carp atrium. Several high affinity drugs, which embody the quinuclidine structure were examined. The structural flexibility of these molecules was reflected in the dissociation of the drugs from the muscarinic receptor. The dissociation of rigid drugs was very much prolonged as compared to flexible drugs of the same affinity.", "contents": "Offset rate of action of muscarinic antagonists depends on their structural flexibility. Time course measurements of the action of muscarinic antagonists were performed in the spontaneously beating carp atrium. Several high affinity drugs, which embody the quinuclidine structure were examined. The structural flexibility of these molecules was reflected in the dissociation of the drugs from the muscarinic receptor. The dissociation of rigid drugs was very much prolonged as compared to flexible drugs of the same affinity.", "PMID": 446670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7714", "title": "Antihypertensive and other cardiovascular effects of 2-(3-pyridyl)- and 2-(4-pyridyl)-4-trifluoromethylimidazoles.", "content": "2 new 4-trifluoromethylimidazole derivatives were found which lowered mean arterial pressure in renal and spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats by the oral route. In SH rats, compounds A and B were 0.1 and 0.3 times, respectively, as potent as hydralazine. No tolerance development was observed in SH rats with either compound over a 1-week period. In anesthetized dogs, both compounds lowered arterial pressure and peripheral vascular resistance but increased cardiac output. By intraarterial administration, both compounds increased femoral arterial blood flow. These findings represent discovery of a new class of vasodilator durgs.", "contents": "Antihypertensive and other cardiovascular effects of 2-(3-pyridyl)- and 2-(4-pyridyl)-4-trifluoromethylimidazoles. 2 new 4-trifluoromethylimidazole derivatives were found which lowered mean arterial pressure in renal and spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats by the oral route. In SH rats, compounds A and B were 0.1 and 0.3 times, respectively, as potent as hydralazine. No tolerance development was observed in SH rats with either compound over a 1-week period. In anesthetized dogs, both compounds lowered arterial pressure and peripheral vascular resistance but increased cardiac output. By intraarterial administration, both compounds increased femoral arterial blood flow. These findings represent discovery of a new class of vasodilator durgs.", "PMID": 446671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7715", "title": "Effects of chronic lithium administration on concanavalin A binding to plasma membranes from the corpus striatum of rat brain.", "content": "The effects of chronic in vivo lithium administration on mannose-containing components of plasma membranes from rat corpus striatum were examined by a 3H-concanavalin A binding displacement method. No difference on Con A binding was observed between sodium or lithium-treated rats during a 1-month period.", "contents": "Effects of chronic lithium administration on concanavalin A binding to plasma membranes from the corpus striatum of rat brain. The effects of chronic in vivo lithium administration on mannose-containing components of plasma membranes from rat corpus striatum were examined by a 3H-concanavalin A binding displacement method. No difference on Con A binding was observed between sodium or lithium-treated rats during a 1-month period.", "PMID": 446672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7716", "title": "Isolation of a neurosecretory substance which stimulates RNA synthesis in regenerating planarians.", "content": "An approach to the isolation of neurosecretory material from planarians is described. This material stimulated RNA synthesis, in a dose-dependent response, in regenerating Dugesia tigrina. The data support the concept that neurosecretion plays a key role in the process of regeneration in planarians.", "contents": "Isolation of a neurosecretory substance which stimulates RNA synthesis in regenerating planarians. An approach to the isolation of neurosecretory material from planarians is described. This material stimulated RNA synthesis, in a dose-dependent response, in regenerating Dugesia tigrina. The data support the concept that neurosecretion plays a key role in the process of regeneration in planarians.", "PMID": 446673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7717", "title": "Mitochondrial respiration depressed by camphor: a possible aid in radiotherapy.", "content": "Camphor has been found to decrease the rate of oxygen consumption by rat kidney mitochondria. The rate of oxygen consumption is nearly halved by the addition of 8 X 10(-3) M camphor. It is suggested that camphor may be of use in oxygenating tumours prior to radiotherapy.", "contents": "Mitochondrial respiration depressed by camphor: a possible aid in radiotherapy. Camphor has been found to decrease the rate of oxygen consumption by rat kidney mitochondria. The rate of oxygen consumption is nearly halved by the addition of 8 X 10(-3) M camphor. It is suggested that camphor may be of use in oxygenating tumours prior to radiotherapy.", "PMID": 446674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7718", "title": "Murine primitive neuroectodermal tumor: nucleolar isolation and RNA polymerase inhibition.", "content": "A nucleolar isolation procedure was developed for the murine primitive neuroectodermal tumor originally induced with methylcholanthrene. This procedure utilizes sonication for breakage of the nuclei at a magnesium concentration which disperses the extranucleolar chromatin. The nucleoli retain RNA synthetic activity which is inhibited to about 90% by actinomycin D and the chemotherapeutic drug adriamycin.", "contents": "Murine primitive neuroectodermal tumor: nucleolar isolation and RNA polymerase inhibition. A nucleolar isolation procedure was developed for the murine primitive neuroectodermal tumor originally induced with methylcholanthrene. This procedure utilizes sonication for breakage of the nuclei at a magnesium concentration which disperses the extranucleolar chromatin. The nucleoli retain RNA synthetic activity which is inhibited to about 90% by actinomycin D and the chemotherapeutic drug adriamycin.", "PMID": 446675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7719", "title": "Promotion of epithelial keratinization by N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in rat forestomach in organ culture.", "content": "The effect of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) on epithelial differentiation of fetal rat forestomach was investigated in organ culture. When forestomach tissues removed from 16.5-day fetuses were treated with 5 microgram and 3 microgram of MNNG per ml for 1 h, epithelial keratinization was observed after 4 and 5 days, respectively, whereas it occurred after 6 days in control cultures. A clear dose-response relationship was found in the promotion of epithelial keratinization by MNNG.", "contents": "Promotion of epithelial keratinization by N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in rat forestomach in organ culture. The effect of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) on epithelial differentiation of fetal rat forestomach was investigated in organ culture. When forestomach tissues removed from 16.5-day fetuses were treated with 5 microgram and 3 microgram of MNNG per ml for 1 h, epithelial keratinization was observed after 4 and 5 days, respectively, whereas it occurred after 6 days in control cultures. A clear dose-response relationship was found in the promotion of epithelial keratinization by MNNG.", "PMID": 446676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7720", "title": "Differences in utilization of tritiated thymidine and tritiated deoxycytidine by rat lymph node cells.", "content": "Large lymphoid cells and plasma cells in antigenically stimulated rat lymph nodes retain less label after injection of 3H-CdR than after injection of 3H-TdR. There is no difference amongst small lymphocytes. The data are consistent with a defect in the utilization of 3H-CdR in the late stages of B cell maturation in the rat.", "contents": "Differences in utilization of tritiated thymidine and tritiated deoxycytidine by rat lymph node cells. Large lymphoid cells and plasma cells in antigenically stimulated rat lymph nodes retain less label after injection of 3H-CdR than after injection of 3H-TdR. There is no difference amongst small lymphocytes. The data are consistent with a defect in the utilization of 3H-CdR in the late stages of B cell maturation in the rat.", "PMID": 446677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7721", "title": "Immunological and morphological consequences of vasectomy in the rabbit.", "content": "Cell-mediated immunity to spermatozoa was detected in vitro 6--18 months after vasectomy in the rabbit. The autoimmunity was accompanied by aspermatogenic orchitis in the testes and epididymides.", "contents": "Immunological and morphological consequences of vasectomy in the rabbit. Cell-mediated immunity to spermatozoa was detected in vitro 6--18 months after vasectomy in the rabbit. The autoimmunity was accompanied by aspermatogenic orchitis in the testes and epididymides.", "PMID": 446678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7722", "title": "Properties of vascular permeability factor in human sera for guinea-pig skin.", "content": "Properties of vascular permeability factor in native human sera (PF/Nat) showed close similarities with those of necrotizing factor. Time course studies revealed that skin necrosis could be initiated by enhanced vascular permeability.", "contents": "Properties of vascular permeability factor in human sera for guinea-pig skin. Properties of vascular permeability factor in native human sera (PF/Nat) showed close similarities with those of necrotizing factor. Time course studies revealed that skin necrosis could be initiated by enhanced vascular permeability.", "PMID": 446679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7723", "title": "Catecholamines in adult iron deficiency patients.", "content": "Patients with iron deficiency whether uncomplicated or associated with other types of anemias, had plasma catecholamine levels which were significantly increased above normal controls. Patients with a variety of other anemias had no significant increase in catecholamine levels. Plasma catecholamine levels in uncomplicated iron deficient patients approached normal values as early as 3 h following oral FeSO4.", "contents": "Catecholamines in adult iron deficiency patients. Patients with iron deficiency whether uncomplicated or associated with other types of anemias, had plasma catecholamine levels which were significantly increased above normal controls. Patients with a variety of other anemias had no significant increase in catecholamine levels. Plasma catecholamine levels in uncomplicated iron deficient patients approached normal values as early as 3 h following oral FeSO4.", "PMID": 446680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7724", "title": "Inhibitory effect of cytokinins on PHA-induced human lymphocyte stimulation.", "content": "The inhibitory effect of various purine derivatives on PHA-induced human lymphocyte blast formation was studied. Two nucleoside cytokinins, N6-benzyladenosine and N6-isopentenyladenosine, inhibited blast formation at concentrations as low as 10(-6) M. However, the other cytokinins, which lacked the ribosyl residue at N9 position, had to be at the higher molar concentration of 10(-4) before they could induce the same inhibitory effect.", "contents": "Inhibitory effect of cytokinins on PHA-induced human lymphocyte stimulation. The inhibitory effect of various purine derivatives on PHA-induced human lymphocyte blast formation was studied. Two nucleoside cytokinins, N6-benzyladenosine and N6-isopentenyladenosine, inhibited blast formation at concentrations as low as 10(-6) M. However, the other cytokinins, which lacked the ribosyl residue at N9 position, had to be at the higher molar concentration of 10(-4) before they could induce the same inhibitory effect.", "PMID": 446681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7725", "title": "Cell proliferation in the rat pituitary gland: a mechanism of control in prolactin cells.", "content": "We investigated the relationship between prolactin content and DNA replication in the anterior pituitary gland. Thymidine incorporation in pregnant rats is significantly lower than in virgin controls. This is accompanied by a decreased activity of DNA polymerase. Sulpiride administration to pregnant rats enhances thymidine incorporation to levels similar to virgin controls. The results indicate a negative feedback between prolactin content and DNA synthesis in the rat anterior pituitary gland.", "contents": "Cell proliferation in the rat pituitary gland: a mechanism of control in prolactin cells. We investigated the relationship between prolactin content and DNA replication in the anterior pituitary gland. Thymidine incorporation in pregnant rats is significantly lower than in virgin controls. This is accompanied by a decreased activity of DNA polymerase. Sulpiride administration to pregnant rats enhances thymidine incorporation to levels similar to virgin controls. The results indicate a negative feedback between prolactin content and DNA synthesis in the rat anterior pituitary gland.", "PMID": 446682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7726", "title": "Acute effects of unilateral or bilateral superior cervical ganglionectomy on rat pineal N-acetyltransferase activity and melatonin content.", "content": "Acute bilateral superior cervical ganglionectomy (SCGX) completely prevents the nocturnal rises in pineal N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity and melatonin content in male rats kept in light-dark cycles of 14:10. Unilateral SCGX causes the NAT and melatonin levels to be intermediate between those in sham-operated control rats and those in rats from which both ganglia had been removed.", "contents": "Acute effects of unilateral or bilateral superior cervical ganglionectomy on rat pineal N-acetyltransferase activity and melatonin content. Acute bilateral superior cervical ganglionectomy (SCGX) completely prevents the nocturnal rises in pineal N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity and melatonin content in male rats kept in light-dark cycles of 14:10. Unilateral SCGX causes the NAT and melatonin levels to be intermediate between those in sham-operated control rats and those in rats from which both ganglia had been removed.", "PMID": 446683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7727", "title": "The involvement of serotonin in induced ovulation in the immature rat.", "content": "In pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMS) treated immature rats the cortex, cerebellum, caudate nucleus and hypothalamus were isolated and analyzed for their serotonin (5-HT) content at 6-h intervals for 72 h. Results showed a general trend of significant variation occurring in days 1 and 3 after PMS injection with no major variations observed on the second day. The results obtained suggest a possible involvement of 5-HT in the control of ovulation.", "contents": "The involvement of serotonin in induced ovulation in the immature rat. In pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMS) treated immature rats the cortex, cerebellum, caudate nucleus and hypothalamus were isolated and analyzed for their serotonin (5-HT) content at 6-h intervals for 72 h. Results showed a general trend of significant variation occurring in days 1 and 3 after PMS injection with no major variations observed on the second day. The results obtained suggest a possible involvement of 5-HT in the control of ovulation.", "PMID": 446684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7728", "title": "In vitro stimulation of chicken pituitary growth hormone and prolactin secretion by chicken hypothalamic extract.", "content": "The effect of an acid extract of chicken hypothalami on the in vitro secretion of prolactin and growth hormone (GH) by dispersed chicken pituitary cells has been investigated. Both prolactin and GH release were stimulated in a dose related manner in the presence of the hypothalamic extract (HE). Somatostatin had no effect on the basal or HE stimulated release of prolactin although it did inhibit the HE induced release of GH.", "contents": "In vitro stimulation of chicken pituitary growth hormone and prolactin secretion by chicken hypothalamic extract. The effect of an acid extract of chicken hypothalami on the in vitro secretion of prolactin and growth hormone (GH) by dispersed chicken pituitary cells has been investigated. Both prolactin and GH release were stimulated in a dose related manner in the presence of the hypothalamic extract (HE). Somatostatin had no effect on the basal or HE stimulated release of prolactin although it did inhibit the HE induced release of GH.", "PMID": 446685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7729", "title": "Trans-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid) inhibits the effect of androgens on the rat prostate.", "content": "Trans-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid, FA) antagonized the effect of exogenous androgens on the ventral prostate (VP) in castrated rats as well as the effect of endogenous androgens in intact rats. FA, however, had no effect on the seminal vesicles (SV) and levator ani muscle (LAM), nor oestrogenic effect in female rats and mice. FA did not antagonize the receptor binding of testosterone nor inhibit the conversion of testosterone into 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT).", "contents": "Trans-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid) inhibits the effect of androgens on the rat prostate. Trans-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid, FA) antagonized the effect of exogenous androgens on the ventral prostate (VP) in castrated rats as well as the effect of endogenous androgens in intact rats. FA, however, had no effect on the seminal vesicles (SV) and levator ani muscle (LAM), nor oestrogenic effect in female rats and mice. FA did not antagonize the receptor binding of testosterone nor inhibit the conversion of testosterone into 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT).", "PMID": 446686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7730", "title": "Are there cyclic variations in estradiol secretion in the non-pregnant rabbit?", "content": "Plasma estradiol-17 beta (E2) concentration was measured in 5 adult non-pregnant rabbits each in 3 different seasons (January, April and September). Blood samples were taken from each rabbit every other day. There was a considerable variation in plasma E2 levels from one sampling day to another, irrespective of the season. The pattern of variation in E2 levels in individual rabbits tended to be cyclic and this cycle was roughly of the order of 8 days. There was no correlation between changes in E2 levels and those in the vaginal appearance.", "contents": "Are there cyclic variations in estradiol secretion in the non-pregnant rabbit? Plasma estradiol-17 beta (E2) concentration was measured in 5 adult non-pregnant rabbits each in 3 different seasons (January, April and September). Blood samples were taken from each rabbit every other day. There was a considerable variation in plasma E2 levels from one sampling day to another, irrespective of the season. The pattern of variation in E2 levels in individual rabbits tended to be cyclic and this cycle was roughly of the order of 8 days. There was no correlation between changes in E2 levels and those in the vaginal appearance.", "PMID": 446687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7731", "title": "Serum prolactin levels and maintenance of progeny by prenatally-stressed female offspring.", "content": "Prenatal stress significantly reduced the number of progeny born to 47% of the female offspring and significantly increased the incidence of low birthweight young. None of these litters survived by the tenth postpartum day when serum prolactin levels were significantly reduced. Upon autopsy, these females had twice as many uterine implantation sites than the number of fetuses they bore, suggesting that a) the reduced postpartum serum prolactin most likely was the cause rather than the effect of the neonatal mortality and b) major hormonal deficiencies (possibly gonadotropic-related) were present even before giving birth.", "contents": "Serum prolactin levels and maintenance of progeny by prenatally-stressed female offspring. Prenatal stress significantly reduced the number of progeny born to 47% of the female offspring and significantly increased the incidence of low birthweight young. None of these litters survived by the tenth postpartum day when serum prolactin levels were significantly reduced. Upon autopsy, these females had twice as many uterine implantation sites than the number of fetuses they bore, suggesting that a) the reduced postpartum serum prolactin most likely was the cause rather than the effect of the neonatal mortality and b) major hormonal deficiencies (possibly gonadotropic-related) were present even before giving birth.", "PMID": 446688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7732", "title": "Effect of testosterone on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of pinealectomized and pineal-intact male rats.", "content": "Previous studies indicate that steroid hormones alter pineal biochemistry, and it has been suggested that at least part of the negative feedback effect of steroid hormones on pituitary gonadotropin release may be mediated by the pineal gland. In this study, pinealectomy did not alter the inhibitory effect of testosterone on neuroendocine-gonadal activity in the male rat, suggesting that the pineal gland does not mediate the response of the rat hypothalamic-pituitary axis to testosterone.", "contents": "Effect of testosterone on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of pinealectomized and pineal-intact male rats. Previous studies indicate that steroid hormones alter pineal biochemistry, and it has been suggested that at least part of the negative feedback effect of steroid hormones on pituitary gonadotropin release may be mediated by the pineal gland. In this study, pinealectomy did not alter the inhibitory effect of testosterone on neuroendocine-gonadal activity in the male rat, suggesting that the pineal gland does not mediate the response of the rat hypothalamic-pituitary axis to testosterone.", "PMID": 446689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7733", "title": "A source of error in the fluorometric determination of protein in human placental microsomes.", "content": "When protein is assayed in human placental microsomes by the fluorescamine procedure, 25--30% of the observed fluorescence results from labeling of phospholipids.", "contents": "A source of error in the fluorometric determination of protein in human placental microsomes. When protein is assayed in human placental microsomes by the fluorescamine procedure, 25--30% of the observed fluorescence results from labeling of phospholipids.", "PMID": 446690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7734", "title": "Porcine skeletal muscle for physiological studies.", "content": "The common digital extensor (lateral head) is one of the few porcine muscles of convenient dimensions for in vitro studies of intact cells. Its removal and use in physiological studies are described.", "contents": "Porcine skeletal muscle for physiological studies. The common digital extensor (lateral head) is one of the few porcine muscles of convenient dimensions for in vitro studies of intact cells. Its removal and use in physiological studies are described.", "PMID": 446691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7735", "title": "Consideration on the effects of pollution at community and population level.", "content": "The effects of pollution at population level are considered in relation to demographic characteristics and overall to the birthrate. The direct and indirect effects of pollution on community structure is discussed. The influence of pollution may vary according to the food-chain structure; (as a consequence, the hazard 'ceteris paribus' will be greater in freshwater communities than in marine ones). Relations between 'diversity' and 'stability' are discussed. In addition, the advantages and difficulties in using 'diversity' and 'biotic' indices for monitoring polluted water are taken into account.", "contents": "Consideration on the effects of pollution at community and population level. The effects of pollution at population level are considered in relation to demographic characteristics and overall to the birthrate. The direct and indirect effects of pollution on community structure is discussed. The influence of pollution may vary according to the food-chain structure; (as a consequence, the hazard 'ceteris paribus' will be greater in freshwater communities than in marine ones). Relations between 'diversity' and 'stability' are discussed. In addition, the advantages and difficulties in using 'diversity' and 'biotic' indices for monitoring polluted water are taken into account.", "PMID": 446692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7736", "title": "[Effect of lithium oxybutyrate on the polypeptide and noradrenaline content in the rat hypothalamus].", "content": "It was established that single administration to rats of 200 mg/kg of lithium hydroxybutyrate releases noradrenalin from the terminals of hypothalamus adrenergic fibers and increases output of polypeptides in the neurons of supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus. After repeated administration of the drug (200 mg/kg) once a day over 6 days) the nuclei showed depressed output of polypeptides.", "contents": "[Effect of lithium oxybutyrate on the polypeptide and noradrenaline content in the rat hypothalamus]. It was established that single administration to rats of 200 mg/kg of lithium hydroxybutyrate releases noradrenalin from the terminals of hypothalamus adrenergic fibers and increases output of polypeptides in the neurons of supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus. After repeated administration of the drug (200 mg/kg) once a day over 6 days) the nuclei showed depressed output of polypeptides.", "PMID": 446697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7737", "title": "[Effect of GABA, sodium glutamate and glycine on evoked potentials in the dental zones of the cerebral cortex].", "content": "Intraventricular administration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine decreased, whereas sodium glutamate increased the amplitude of primary responses of dental zones of the somatosensory cortex, which arose during electric stimulation of the pulp of the rabbit upper incisors. No changes in the latent periods were recorded.", "contents": "[Effect of GABA, sodium glutamate and glycine on evoked potentials in the dental zones of the cerebral cortex]. Intraventricular administration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine decreased, whereas sodium glutamate increased the amplitude of primary responses of dental zones of the somatosensory cortex, which arose during electric stimulation of the pulp of the rabbit upper incisors. No changes in the latent periods were recorded.", "PMID": 446698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7738", "title": "[Brain catecholamine participation in etimizol activation of the hypophyseal-adrenal cortex system].", "content": "In the experiments on rats the influence of aethimizol on the blood plasma 11-corticosteroids level and the brain catecholamines content was studied. It is established that an hour after the aethimizol injection (10 mg/kg) the blood corticosteroids concentration increases and the hypothalamic norepinephrine and dophamine levels decrease. The pituitary-adrenal system stimulating effect of aethimizol is blocked to a great extent by the intraventricular injection of 6-hydroxydophamine (250 microgram, twice), but is not prevented by the intraperitoneal reserpine treatment (1.5 mg/kg, twice). Aethimizol potentiates the behavioral effects of L-dioxyphenylalanine in mice. It is suggested that the stimulating action of aethimizol on the pituitary-adrenal system may be attributed to its activation of the catecholamines release and their uptake by the hypothalamus.", "contents": "[Brain catecholamine participation in etimizol activation of the hypophyseal-adrenal cortex system]. In the experiments on rats the influence of aethimizol on the blood plasma 11-corticosteroids level and the brain catecholamines content was studied. It is established that an hour after the aethimizol injection (10 mg/kg) the blood corticosteroids concentration increases and the hypothalamic norepinephrine and dophamine levels decrease. The pituitary-adrenal system stimulating effect of aethimizol is blocked to a great extent by the intraventricular injection of 6-hydroxydophamine (250 microgram, twice), but is not prevented by the intraperitoneal reserpine treatment (1.5 mg/kg, twice). Aethimizol potentiates the behavioral effects of L-dioxyphenylalanine in mice. It is suggested that the stimulating action of aethimizol on the pituitary-adrenal system may be attributed to its activation of the catecholamines release and their uptake by the hypothalamus.", "PMID": 446699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7739", "title": "[Pharmacological activity and toxicity of neurotropic agents in experimental hypodynamia].", "content": "Comparison of ED50, the indices of pharmacological range, LD50, risk coefficients, the size of the area of toxic activity, maximal tolerated and absolute lethal doses showed in acute experiments on intact and \"hypodynamic\" mice that under conditions of a short-term tension-producing hypodynamia in the animals, the pharmacological activity of the test neurotropic agents exhibiting a central action changes, whereas their toxicity remains unchanged.", "contents": "[Pharmacological activity and toxicity of neurotropic agents in experimental hypodynamia]. Comparison of ED50, the indices of pharmacological range, LD50, risk coefficients, the size of the area of toxic activity, maximal tolerated and absolute lethal doses showed in acute experiments on intact and \"hypodynamic\" mice that under conditions of a short-term tension-producing hypodynamia in the animals, the pharmacological activity of the test neurotropic agents exhibiting a central action changes, whereas their toxicity remains unchanged.", "PMID": 446700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7740", "title": "[Change in the antinociceptive effect occurring in stimulation of the rat midbrain under the influence of morphine].", "content": "In chronic experiments on rats it was established that electric stimulation of certain areas of the midbrain depresses pain reactions of different genesis. Morphine in subanalgetic doses (2--2.5 mg/kg) reveals and potentiates the antinociceptive effect of central stimulation shown first of all by depression of the complex highly integrated components of an emotionally behavioral conductive reaction to pain.", "contents": "[Change in the antinociceptive effect occurring in stimulation of the rat midbrain under the influence of morphine]. In chronic experiments on rats it was established that electric stimulation of certain areas of the midbrain depresses pain reactions of different genesis. Morphine in subanalgetic doses (2--2.5 mg/kg) reveals and potentiates the antinociceptive effect of central stimulation shown first of all by depression of the complex highly integrated components of an emotionally behavioral conductive reaction to pain.", "PMID": 446701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7741", "title": "[Nonachlazine in solution as an arresting agent in stenocardiac attacks].", "content": "Nonachlazine infused in the form of a solution penetrates rapidly the blood and organs. In experiments on cats it was shown that infusion of the drug into the stomach enriches the speed of blood flow and oxyhemoglobin amount in the coronary sinus blood after 2--3 minutes. Heart oxygen consumption increases slightly. Nonachlazine solution is little toxic. As a result of pharmacological research it is recommended for removing angina pectoris attacks in patients irresponsive to nitroglycerin.", "contents": "[Nonachlazine in solution as an arresting agent in stenocardiac attacks]. Nonachlazine infused in the form of a solution penetrates rapidly the blood and organs. In experiments on cats it was shown that infusion of the drug into the stomach enriches the speed of blood flow and oxyhemoglobin amount in the coronary sinus blood after 2--3 minutes. Heart oxygen consumption increases slightly. Nonachlazine solution is little toxic. As a result of pharmacological research it is recommended for removing angina pectoris attacks in patients irresponsive to nitroglycerin.", "PMID": 446702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7742", "title": "[Action of nonachlazine on thrombocyte aggregation induced by adrenaline].", "content": "Nonachlazine at concentrations 10(-6)--10(-4)M inhibited platelet aggregation in rabbits induced by adrenalin in vitro. The same concentrations of the drug produced an appreciable increase in aggregation reversibility. Intravenous injection of nonachlazine into the rabbit 50 minutes prior to adrenalin protected the platelets against the aggregation activity of adrenalin but did not affect deaggregation.", "contents": "[Action of nonachlazine on thrombocyte aggregation induced by adrenaline]. Nonachlazine at concentrations 10(-6)--10(-4)M inhibited platelet aggregation in rabbits induced by adrenalin in vitro. The same concentrations of the drug produced an appreciable increase in aggregation reversibility. Intravenous injection of nonachlazine into the rabbit 50 minutes prior to adrenalin protected the platelets against the aggregation activity of adrenalin but did not affect deaggregation.", "PMID": 446703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7743", "title": "[Effect of alpha-tocopherol acetate and sodium selenite on the change in ATP content and the RNA synthesis rate in the ischemic myocardium].", "content": "The effect of preliminary administration of alpha-tocopherol acetate (1 mg/kg) and sodium selenite (1 mg/kg) on RNA synthesis rate and changes in the macroergic content in ischemic myocardium was studied. It was shown to be conducive to ATP level maintenance after 30- and 60-minute heart ischemia. A statistically significant accumulation of RNA by the myocardium following I-hour ischemia as well as this polynucleotide synthesis activation were recorded. Preservation of the energetic resources by the cell along with RNA metabolism returning to normal contributes to inhibiting the emergence of irreversible cell damage and increases regenerative potentialities of the myocardium.", "contents": "[Effect of alpha-tocopherol acetate and sodium selenite on the change in ATP content and the RNA synthesis rate in the ischemic myocardium]. The effect of preliminary administration of alpha-tocopherol acetate (1 mg/kg) and sodium selenite (1 mg/kg) on RNA synthesis rate and changes in the macroergic content in ischemic myocardium was studied. It was shown to be conducive to ATP level maintenance after 30- and 60-minute heart ischemia. A statistically significant accumulation of RNA by the myocardium following I-hour ischemia as well as this polynucleotide synthesis activation were recorded. Preservation of the energetic resources by the cell along with RNA metabolism returning to normal contributes to inhibiting the emergence of irreversible cell damage and increases regenerative potentialities of the myocardium.", "PMID": 446704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7744", "title": "[Effect of an intravenously administered phosphatidylserine emulsion on blood coagulation and blood system indices].", "content": "Experiments on white rats and rabbits showed that intravenous injection of phosphatidylethanol amine- and sphyngomyelin-stabilized phosphatidylserin emulsion produced hypocoagulemia. The effect was observed immediately after injection of the drug, reached a maximum after one hour and returned to normal following 24 hours. The changes became more intensive as the dose was increased and could be reproduced during repeated administrations over a period of ten days. The arterial blood pressure, velocity of the blood flow and volume of the circulating blood remained unchanged. There were no appreciable changes in the peripheral blood parameters or in bone marrow hemopoiesis on repeated administrations over a period of thirty days.", "contents": "[Effect of an intravenously administered phosphatidylserine emulsion on blood coagulation and blood system indices]. Experiments on white rats and rabbits showed that intravenous injection of phosphatidylethanol amine- and sphyngomyelin-stabilized phosphatidylserin emulsion produced hypocoagulemia. The effect was observed immediately after injection of the drug, reached a maximum after one hour and returned to normal following 24 hours. The changes became more intensive as the dose was increased and could be reproduced during repeated administrations over a period of ten days. The arterial blood pressure, velocity of the blood flow and volume of the circulating blood remained unchanged. There were no appreciable changes in the peripheral blood parameters or in bone marrow hemopoiesis on repeated administrations over a period of thirty days.", "PMID": 446705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7745", "title": "[Study of pharmacological activity of potassium glutamate in an experiment on young and old animals].", "content": "It was established that potassium glutaminate is a little toxic compound (LD50 amounts to 4500 mg/kg on administration to white mice by mouth) and shows a marked pharmacological activity. Administration of potassium glutaminate to white rats in a dose 500 mg/kg raises intracellular potassium level in the tissues, makes the acid-balance equilibrium return to normal after unilateral nephrectomy and acid load, activates bile-forming and choleretic liver function, exerts a moderate diuretic effect. The compound potentiates the activity of succinate dehydrogenase and cytochromoxidase in the tissues of old rats.", "contents": "[Study of pharmacological activity of potassium glutamate in an experiment on young and old animals]. It was established that potassium glutaminate is a little toxic compound (LD50 amounts to 4500 mg/kg on administration to white mice by mouth) and shows a marked pharmacological activity. Administration of potassium glutaminate to white rats in a dose 500 mg/kg raises intracellular potassium level in the tissues, makes the acid-balance equilibrium return to normal after unilateral nephrectomy and acid load, activates bile-forming and choleretic liver function, exerts a moderate diuretic effect. The compound potentiates the activity of succinate dehydrogenase and cytochromoxidase in the tissues of old rats.", "PMID": 446709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7746", "title": "[Hypervitaminosis A and the state of the chromosome apparatus of the rat bone marrow cells].", "content": "In experiments on rats overdoses of vitamin A produced an increased frequency of cells with chromosomal aberrations and elevated number of polyploid cells. Still more pronounced disturbances were recorded in the structure and ploidity of chromosomes if hypervitaminosis A was accompanied by deficient protein nutrition.", "contents": "[Hypervitaminosis A and the state of the chromosome apparatus of the rat bone marrow cells]. In experiments on rats overdoses of vitamin A produced an increased frequency of cells with chromosomal aberrations and elevated number of polyploid cells. Still more pronounced disturbances were recorded in the structure and ploidity of chromosomes if hypervitaminosis A was accompanied by deficient protein nutrition.", "PMID": 446710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7747", "title": "[Effect of butadione on the morphohistochemical changes in the joints in adjuvant polyarthritis].", "content": "Prophylactic and therapeutic administration of pyrasol derivatives butadion and stampyrine (antipyrilamide of stearic acid), to rats with adjuvant polyarthritis normalize the structure of the synovial membrane, capsule and of the periarticular tissue of the talocrural articulations, stabilize the proteinic-mucopolysaccharide complexes, lower the permeability of the lysosome membranes and vascular walls and inhibit the phagocystic activity of the histiocytes. Both drugs do not lessen the proliferation of the fibroblasts, but normalize the processes of the collagenogenesis them. The prophylactic and therapeutic effects of stampyrine are superior to those of butadion.", "contents": "[Effect of butadione on the morphohistochemical changes in the joints in adjuvant polyarthritis]. Prophylactic and therapeutic administration of pyrasol derivatives butadion and stampyrine (antipyrilamide of stearic acid), to rats with adjuvant polyarthritis normalize the structure of the synovial membrane, capsule and of the periarticular tissue of the talocrural articulations, stabilize the proteinic-mucopolysaccharide complexes, lower the permeability of the lysosome membranes and vascular walls and inhibit the phagocystic activity of the histiocytes. Both drugs do not lessen the proliferation of the fibroblasts, but normalize the processes of the collagenogenesis them. The prophylactic and therapeutic effects of stampyrine are superior to those of butadion.", "PMID": 446708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7748", "title": "[Effect of phosphemide on the glycogen content in the organs of white rats].", "content": "Tests on albino rats brought evidence that the antineoplastic drug phosphemide, administered to the animals in doses of 10 mg/kg daily for 7 days reduces the glycogen content in the liver on the 5th day of investigation. In the heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys and spleen no changes in the glycogen were noted. Phosphemide produced morphological changes in the spleen and kidneys.", "contents": "[Effect of phosphemide on the glycogen content in the organs of white rats]. Tests on albino rats brought evidence that the antineoplastic drug phosphemide, administered to the animals in doses of 10 mg/kg daily for 7 days reduces the glycogen content in the liver on the 5th day of investigation. In the heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys and spleen no changes in the glycogen were noted. Phosphemide produced morphological changes in the spleen and kidneys.", "PMID": 446712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7749", "title": "[Pharmacodynamics of anti-inflammatory preparations in body exposure to a physical therapeutic factor].", "content": "The analgetic and antipyretic action of acetylsalicylic acid is potentiated, whereas that of butadion and amidopyrine is decreased in the conditions of prior action of peloid skin applications (body temperature 42 degrees C). The effect of phenobarbital rises and that of butadion remains unchanged, whereas the inhibitory effect of ethazol revealed in the course of investigations of levelled under conditions of the action of the physical factor on the microsomal system. This leads to the changes in biotransformation and pharmacodynamics of the drugs.", "contents": "[Pharmacodynamics of anti-inflammatory preparations in body exposure to a physical therapeutic factor]. The analgetic and antipyretic action of acetylsalicylic acid is potentiated, whereas that of butadion and amidopyrine is decreased in the conditions of prior action of peloid skin applications (body temperature 42 degrees C). The effect of phenobarbital rises and that of butadion remains unchanged, whereas the inhibitory effect of ethazol revealed in the course of investigations of levelled under conditions of the action of the physical factor on the microsomal system. This leads to the changes in biotransformation and pharmacodynamics of the drugs.", "PMID": 446707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7750", "title": "[Hypoglycemic activity of aromatic sulfohydrazides and their derivatives].", "content": "Tests on rabbits revealed the aromatic sulfohydrazides and their derivatives to display hypoglycemic action. A number of compounds superior to butamide by their sugar-lowering action and of low toxicity were discovered. The relationship between the chemical structure of the study substances and their hypoglycemic action is discussed.", "contents": "[Hypoglycemic activity of aromatic sulfohydrazides and their derivatives]. Tests on rabbits revealed the aromatic sulfohydrazides and their derivatives to display hypoglycemic action. A number of compounds superior to butamide by their sugar-lowering action and of low toxicity were discovered. The relationship between the chemical structure of the study substances and their hypoglycemic action is discussed.", "PMID": 446713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7751", "title": "[Effect of insulin on glucose transport in the kidneys].", "content": "Chronic experiments on dogs demonstrated an increase in maximum glucose absorption under the effect of insulin (1 ED/kg). The drug was proved to exert a direct action in acute experiments where it was injected (0.1 RD/min) into the renal artery. After administration of cystein the kidneys did not respond to insulin.", "contents": "[Effect of insulin on glucose transport in the kidneys]. Chronic experiments on dogs demonstrated an increase in maximum glucose absorption under the effect of insulin (1 ED/kg). The drug was proved to exert a direct action in acute experiments where it was injected (0.1 RD/min) into the renal artery. After administration of cystein the kidneys did not respond to insulin.", "PMID": 446711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7752", "title": "[Sulfadimezine and sulfamomomethoxine distribution in the body of white rats in single and repeated administration in combination with UV irradiation].", "content": "Experiments on white rats showed that single administration of sulfadimesin or sulfamonomethoxin combined with UV irradiation delays absorption, increases acetylation rate and diminishes excretion of the drugs with urine. During prolonged investigations it was established that repeated combined administration of sulfadimesin and UV irradiation produces a drop in the drug level in the blood and organs, increases acetylation rate and total acetylation activity in the body. Repeated combined administration of sulfamonomethoxin and UV irradiation produces a wave-like changes in the dynamics of the drug accumulation in the body and organs. Acetylation rate and total acetylation activity of the body rise as was shown in the course of prolonged investigations.", "contents": "[Sulfadimezine and sulfamomomethoxine distribution in the body of white rats in single and repeated administration in combination with UV irradiation]. Experiments on white rats showed that single administration of sulfadimesin or sulfamonomethoxin combined with UV irradiation delays absorption, increases acetylation rate and diminishes excretion of the drugs with urine. During prolonged investigations it was established that repeated combined administration of sulfadimesin and UV irradiation produces a drop in the drug level in the blood and organs, increases acetylation rate and total acetylation activity in the body. Repeated combined administration of sulfamonomethoxin and UV irradiation produces a wave-like changes in the dynamics of the drug accumulation in the body and organs. Acetylation rate and total acetylation activity of the body rise as was shown in the course of prolonged investigations.", "PMID": 446714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7753", "title": "[Comparison of the effect of acute hypoxia on the rat liver lysosomal apparatus against a background of adaptation to hypoxia and the administration of gutimine].", "content": "Acute hypobaric hypoxia in rats (260 mm Hg., 90 min) was accompanied by a greater liver lysosomes osmotic susceptibility and by an increase in the relative content of the lysosomal enzymes (acid RNAase and acid phosphatase) in the nuclear fraction. This indicates an enrichment of the liver cell lysosomes with secondary lysosomes. No significant signs of labilization of the liver lysosomes were found. The adaptation of rats to hypoxia, as well as administration of the antihypoxant guthimin or of 1,4-bis-(3'-morpholinopropin-1'-yl-1') benzene hinder these changes to occur in the liver lysosomes during the organism reaction to hypoxia. But the effect of stabilization of the lysosomal membranes in a minor component in the antihypoxia action of the treatment.", "contents": "[Comparison of the effect of acute hypoxia on the rat liver lysosomal apparatus against a background of adaptation to hypoxia and the administration of gutimine]. Acute hypobaric hypoxia in rats (260 mm Hg., 90 min) was accompanied by a greater liver lysosomes osmotic susceptibility and by an increase in the relative content of the lysosomal enzymes (acid RNAase and acid phosphatase) in the nuclear fraction. This indicates an enrichment of the liver cell lysosomes with secondary lysosomes. No significant signs of labilization of the liver lysosomes were found. The adaptation of rats to hypoxia, as well as administration of the antihypoxant guthimin or of 1,4-bis-(3'-morpholinopropin-1'-yl-1') benzene hinder these changes to occur in the liver lysosomes during the organism reaction to hypoxia. But the effect of stabilization of the lysosomal membranes in a minor component in the antihypoxia action of the treatment.", "PMID": 446716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7754", "title": "[Effect of ethanol and acetaldehyde on the positive reinforcement structures in rats].", "content": "An activating action of low doses of ethanol and depressant action of acetaldehyde on the hypothalamic and septal structures of positive reinforcement was established in rat experiments using the method of self-stimulation. The relationship between ethanol activating action on these structures and its increased consumption in the conditions of free choice between ethanol and water was demonstrated.", "contents": "[Effect of ethanol and acetaldehyde on the positive reinforcement structures in rats]. An activating action of low doses of ethanol and depressant action of acetaldehyde on the hypothalamic and septal structures of positive reinforcement was established in rat experiments using the method of self-stimulation. The relationship between ethanol activating action on these structures and its increased consumption in the conditions of free choice between ethanol and water was demonstrated.", "PMID": 446715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7755", "title": "[Toxic and pharmacological characteristics of armin and nibufin homologs].", "content": "The experimental studies of alkylesters of phosphonic and phosphinic acids, close homologues of armine and nibufin, showed this series of compounds to have a strongly marked anticholinesterase action. All the substances produce an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, raise the tone of the smooth muscles on an isolated strip of rabbit small intestine and induce a miotic pupil in the animals. Introduction of butyl radicals into molecules of phosphonic acid derivatives results in diminution of toxicity and a slight decrease in anticholinesterase activity. By their properties butyl paranitrophenyl esters of ethyl- and butylphosphonic acids are closely related to armine and nibufin.", "contents": "[Toxic and pharmacological characteristics of armin and nibufin homologs]. The experimental studies of alkylesters of phosphonic and phosphinic acids, close homologues of armine and nibufin, showed this series of compounds to have a strongly marked anticholinesterase action. All the substances produce an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, raise the tone of the smooth muscles on an isolated strip of rabbit small intestine and induce a miotic pupil in the animals. Introduction of butyl radicals into molecules of phosphonic acid derivatives results in diminution of toxicity and a slight decrease in anticholinesterase activity. By their properties butyl paranitrophenyl esters of ethyl- and butylphosphonic acids are closely related to armine and nibufin.", "PMID": 446717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7756", "title": "Modulatory actions of norepinephrine in the central nervous system.", "content": "Early studies have shown that norepinephrine (NE) released synaptically or iontophoretically onto neurons in the central nervous system acts to depress firing by a mechanism associated with a hyperpolarization but no change or an increase in membrane resistance. This in contrast to classical transmitters, which cause hyperpolarization by a conductance increase. Recent studies designed to clarify the functional implications of these biophysical actions have revealed new phenomenons in which the major overall effect of NE on cerebellar Purkinje cells is to enhance conventional synaptic input and induce an increase in signal-to-noise ratio of evoked versus spontaneous activity. NE released iontophoretically or via stimulation of the locus coeruleus also has been found to enhance the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid, an endogenous cerebellar transmitter. The effects appear even at low doses of NE having no direct depressant action on spontaneous activity. Specificity tests have shown no enhancement of glycine-induced inhibition by NE and an inability of dopamine to mimic NE. The hypothesis is presented that a significant action of NE in the central nervous system is to induce a bias that alters postsynaptic responsiveness to conventional transmitter systems, which themselves may be more directly concerned with detailed information transfer.", "contents": "Modulatory actions of norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Early studies have shown that norepinephrine (NE) released synaptically or iontophoretically onto neurons in the central nervous system acts to depress firing by a mechanism associated with a hyperpolarization but no change or an increase in membrane resistance. This in contrast to classical transmitters, which cause hyperpolarization by a conductance increase. Recent studies designed to clarify the functional implications of these biophysical actions have revealed new phenomenons in which the major overall effect of NE on cerebellar Purkinje cells is to enhance conventional synaptic input and induce an increase in signal-to-noise ratio of evoked versus spontaneous activity. NE released iontophoretically or via stimulation of the locus coeruleus also has been found to enhance the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid, an endogenous cerebellar transmitter. The effects appear even at low doses of NE having no direct depressant action on spontaneous activity. Specificity tests have shown no enhancement of glycine-induced inhibition by NE and an inability of dopamine to mimic NE. The hypothesis is presented that a significant action of NE in the central nervous system is to induce a bias that alters postsynaptic responsiveness to conventional transmitter systems, which themselves may be more directly concerned with detailed information transfer.", "PMID": 446766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7757", "title": "Dietary influences on resistance to Salmonella infection in chicks.", "content": "Studies on the influence of nutritional factors on the resistance of chicks to Salmonella gallinarum have been reviewed. Increased dietary protein decreased the resistance of chicks to this infection although resistance to Escherichia coli infections was not appreciably affected. The administration of high levels of iron, particularly when accompanied by a chelating agent such as EDTA, resulted in increased resistance to this infection. The additional iron resulted in the prevention of the transient hypoferremia and anemia during the course of the disease. Fewer viable S. gallinarum were present in the blood, liver, and spleen in the presence of increased dietary or injected iron. Cadmium added to the diet at a nontoxic level also enhanced resistance to this infection.", "contents": "Dietary influences on resistance to Salmonella infection in chicks. Studies on the influence of nutritional factors on the resistance of chicks to Salmonella gallinarum have been reviewed. Increased dietary protein decreased the resistance of chicks to this infection although resistance to Escherichia coli infections was not appreciably affected. The administration of high levels of iron, particularly when accompanied by a chelating agent such as EDTA, resulted in increased resistance to this infection. The additional iron resulted in the prevention of the transient hypoferremia and anemia during the course of the disease. Fewer viable S. gallinarum were present in the blood, liver, and spleen in the presence of increased dietary or injected iron. Cadmium added to the diet at a nontoxic level also enhanced resistance to this infection.", "PMID": 446767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7758", "title": "The function of glucocorticoids in thermogenesis.", "content": "Studies both in vivo and in vitro implicate glucocorticoids in various aspects of thermogenesis and prevention of heat loss. Many or most of these effects are probably permissive. Adrenalectomized, cold-exposed rats require glucocorticoids for catecholamine-mediated mobilization of free fatty acids, for shivering responses, and for vasoconstriction and piloerection. Glucocorticoid pretreatment of hypothermic hamsters results in a physiological state more similar bioenergetically to hibernation than to hypothermia. For example, such hamsters can arouse to normothermia from a body temperature of 8 C in a 7--8 C cold room. Lipolytic, gluconeogenic, glycogenolic, and pressor actions resulting from several hormone interactions that require glucocorticoids for optimum responses may account for the enhanced thermogenic ability shown by glucocorticoid-pretreated hamsters. Glucocorticoid treatment also results in enhanced blood and liver carbohydrate levels during hypothermia, a condition similar to that occurring in naturally hibernating animals as opposed to the depleted carbohydrate reserves generally seen in hypothermic animals.", "contents": "The function of glucocorticoids in thermogenesis. Studies both in vivo and in vitro implicate glucocorticoids in various aspects of thermogenesis and prevention of heat loss. Many or most of these effects are probably permissive. Adrenalectomized, cold-exposed rats require glucocorticoids for catecholamine-mediated mobilization of free fatty acids, for shivering responses, and for vasoconstriction and piloerection. Glucocorticoid pretreatment of hypothermic hamsters results in a physiological state more similar bioenergetically to hibernation than to hypothermia. For example, such hamsters can arouse to normothermia from a body temperature of 8 C in a 7--8 C cold room. Lipolytic, gluconeogenic, glycogenolic, and pressor actions resulting from several hormone interactions that require glucocorticoids for optimum responses may account for the enhanced thermogenic ability shown by glucocorticoid-pretreated hamsters. Glucocorticoid treatment also results in enhanced blood and liver carbohydrate levels during hypothermia, a condition similar to that occurring in naturally hibernating animals as opposed to the depleted carbohydrate reserves generally seen in hypothermic animals.", "PMID": 446769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7759", "title": "Reappraisal of the predictive value of the beta-human chorionic gonadotropin assay in an infertile population.", "content": "In order to assess the clinical usefulness of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in monitoring early abortion, we studied prospectively 108 pregnant patients. Of these subjects, 70 carried their pregnancies to term and delivered uneventfully, while 38 patients went on to develop first-trimester bleeding. Blood samples were obtained every 1 to 2 weeks during the first trimester, and, when bleeding developed, at least twice 2 or 3 days apart. beta-hCG was measured by a specific double-antibody radioimmunoassay. In the group with normal pregnancies, first-trimester serum beta-hCG gradually rose to reach a peak concentration of 16,875 +/- 4825 (SD) mIU/ml at 10 to 12 weeks of gestation. In the group with abnormal pregnancies, prior to the onset of bleeding, the mean serum beta-hCG level was 4- to 5-fold below that of normal subjects at equivalent gestational age, although with significant overlap in the 95% confidence limit (2 SD). Furthermore, when bleeding occurred, the individual rate of predicting abortion was at best 75% with an unacceptable rate of false-negative and false-positive predictions.", "contents": "Reappraisal of the predictive value of the beta-human chorionic gonadotropin assay in an infertile population. In order to assess the clinical usefulness of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in monitoring early abortion, we studied prospectively 108 pregnant patients. Of these subjects, 70 carried their pregnancies to term and delivered uneventfully, while 38 patients went on to develop first-trimester bleeding. Blood samples were obtained every 1 to 2 weeks during the first trimester, and, when bleeding developed, at least twice 2 or 3 days apart. beta-hCG was measured by a specific double-antibody radioimmunoassay. In the group with normal pregnancies, first-trimester serum beta-hCG gradually rose to reach a peak concentration of 16,875 +/- 4825 (SD) mIU/ml at 10 to 12 weeks of gestation. In the group with abnormal pregnancies, prior to the onset of bleeding, the mean serum beta-hCG level was 4- to 5-fold below that of normal subjects at equivalent gestational age, although with significant overlap in the 95% confidence limit (2 SD). Furthermore, when bleeding occurred, the individual rate of predicting abortion was at best 75% with an unacceptable rate of false-negative and false-positive predictions.", "PMID": 446772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7760", "title": "Anti-zona pellucida activity in human sera.", "content": "One hundred and twenty-five human sera from male and female fertile and infertile subjects were tested by fluorescent techniques against porcine and human zonae for autoantibodies to zona pellucida. A high incidence of positive sera was found in all groups examined, suggestive that all sera from females demonstrating such activity may not represent cases of autoimmunity to a specific zona component.", "contents": "Anti-zona pellucida activity in human sera. One hundred and twenty-five human sera from male and female fertile and infertile subjects were tested by fluorescent techniques against porcine and human zonae for autoantibodies to zona pellucida. A high incidence of positive sera was found in all groups examined, suggestive that all sera from females demonstrating such activity may not represent cases of autoimmunity to a specific zona component.", "PMID": 446773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7761", "title": "The endocrine effects of vasectomy: a prospective five-year study.", "content": "A prospective study of plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone in 54 men for 5 years following vasectomy revealed no significant continuing alteration in either testosterone or LH. Plasma LH levels 1 year after operation were higher than preoperative levels but did not increase further. Stimulation studies (4 years postvasectomy) using human chorionic gonadotropin confirmed acceptable Leydig cell functional reserve.", "contents": "The endocrine effects of vasectomy: a prospective five-year study. A prospective study of plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone in 54 men for 5 years following vasectomy revealed no significant continuing alteration in either testosterone or LH. Plasma LH levels 1 year after operation were higher than preoperative levels but did not increase further. Stimulation studies (4 years postvasectomy) using human chorionic gonadotropin confirmed acceptable Leydig cell functional reserve.", "PMID": 446774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7762", "title": "Successful management of infertility due to polyzoospermia.", "content": "Polyzoospermia is a rare cause of male infertility. In our clinical practice, patients with exceedingly high sperm counts (ranging from 650 million/ml to 1.75 billion/ml) have invariably been found to have associated poor sperm motility and poor sperm migration in postcoital tests, although the sperm appear morphologically normal. Cases of two infertile couples are presented in which each husband had sperm counts greater than 1 billion/ml. Two methods are reported for the successful management of their infertility problems: (1) precoital dilutional douching and (2) in vitro seminal fluid dilution with 5% dextrose-Ringer's lactate solution and artificial insemination homologous. Each method resulted in improved sperm motility, postcoital tests, and pregnancy.", "contents": "Successful management of infertility due to polyzoospermia. Polyzoospermia is a rare cause of male infertility. In our clinical practice, patients with exceedingly high sperm counts (ranging from 650 million/ml to 1.75 billion/ml) have invariably been found to have associated poor sperm motility and poor sperm migration in postcoital tests, although the sperm appear morphologically normal. Cases of two infertile couples are presented in which each husband had sperm counts greater than 1 billion/ml. Two methods are reported for the successful management of their infertility problems: (1) precoital dilutional douching and (2) in vitro seminal fluid dilution with 5% dextrose-Ringer's lactate solution and artificial insemination homologous. Each method resulted in improved sperm motility, postcoital tests, and pregnancy.", "PMID": 446775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7763", "title": "Clinical findings and testicular histology in three hyperprolactinemic infertile men.", "content": "Three azoospermic infertile men with marked hyperprolactinemia are described. All three men had clinical evidence of distal genital tract obstruction, and one man had evidence of severe spermatogenic arrest. The histology of testicular biopsies taken from each of these men is described and the role of hyperprolactinemia in male infertility is discussed.", "contents": "Clinical findings and testicular histology in three hyperprolactinemic infertile men. Three azoospermic infertile men with marked hyperprolactinemia are described. All three men had clinical evidence of distal genital tract obstruction, and one man had evidence of severe spermatogenic arrest. The histology of testicular biopsies taken from each of these men is described and the role of hyperprolactinemia in male infertility is discussed.", "PMID": 446776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7764", "title": "Peroxidative breakdown of phospholipids in human spermatozoa, spermicidal properties of fatty acid peroxides, and protective action of seminal plasma.", "content": "Aerobic incubation of human spermatozoa in the presence of catalytic amounts of ascorbate and ferrous ion results in rapid peroxidative breakdown of sperm phospholipids and fatty acids; most strongly affected are phosphatidyl ethanolamine, ethanolamine plasmalogen, and docosahexanoic acid. Both peroxidation of the endogenous sperm phospholipid and the concurrent loss of motility can be fully prevented, but not reversed, by an \"antiperoxidant\" factor present in human seminal plasma. Exogenously applied lipid peroxides are powerfully spermicidal. Washed human spermatozoa, at a concentration normally present in semen, treated with as little as 30 nmoles of lipid peroxide/ml become irreversibly immotile within a few minutes. The antiperoxidant factor present in human seminal plasma effectively counteracts the toxic effect of exogenous peroxidized fatty acids upon human spermatozoa, but is unable to restore motility lost by lipid peroxide action.", "contents": "Peroxidative breakdown of phospholipids in human spermatozoa, spermicidal properties of fatty acid peroxides, and protective action of seminal plasma. Aerobic incubation of human spermatozoa in the presence of catalytic amounts of ascorbate and ferrous ion results in rapid peroxidative breakdown of sperm phospholipids and fatty acids; most strongly affected are phosphatidyl ethanolamine, ethanolamine plasmalogen, and docosahexanoic acid. Both peroxidation of the endogenous sperm phospholipid and the concurrent loss of motility can be fully prevented, but not reversed, by an \"antiperoxidant\" factor present in human seminal plasma. Exogenously applied lipid peroxides are powerfully spermicidal. Washed human spermatozoa, at a concentration normally present in semen, treated with as little as 30 nmoles of lipid peroxide/ml become irreversibly immotile within a few minutes. The antiperoxidant factor present in human seminal plasma effectively counteracts the toxic effect of exogenous peroxidized fatty acids upon human spermatozoa, but is unable to restore motility lost by lipid peroxide action.", "PMID": 446777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7765", "title": "The concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine in spermatozoa and seminal plasma of normal, fresh, and frozen human semen.", "content": "Free-L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine concentrations have been determined in spermatozoa and seminal plasma of normal, fresh, and frozen human semen. Results show that in fresh semen most of the free L-carnitine (0.213 +/- 0.02 mM) and L-O-acetylcarnitine (0.063 +/- 0.007 mM) is found in the seminal plasma. In contrast to other worker's results, the concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine in spermatozoa were found to be high and were 0.384 +/- 0.066 mumole/10(9) spermatozoa (22 mM) and 0.376 +/- 0.057 mumole/10(9) spermatozoa (21.6 mM), respectively. It is also demonstrated that the distribution of soluble metabolites such as L-carnitine between spermatozoa and seminal plasma is altered by the freezing of semen. After freezing and storage of semen at -20 degrees C for 7 days, the intracellular concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine decreased to below the limits of assay.", "contents": "The concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine in spermatozoa and seminal plasma of normal, fresh, and frozen human semen. Free-L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine concentrations have been determined in spermatozoa and seminal plasma of normal, fresh, and frozen human semen. Results show that in fresh semen most of the free L-carnitine (0.213 +/- 0.02 mM) and L-O-acetylcarnitine (0.063 +/- 0.007 mM) is found in the seminal plasma. In contrast to other worker's results, the concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine in spermatozoa were found to be high and were 0.384 +/- 0.066 mumole/10(9) spermatozoa (22 mM) and 0.376 +/- 0.057 mumole/10(9) spermatozoa (21.6 mM), respectively. It is also demonstrated that the distribution of soluble metabolites such as L-carnitine between spermatozoa and seminal plasma is altered by the freezing of semen. After freezing and storage of semen at -20 degrees C for 7 days, the intracellular concentrations of free L-carnitine and L-O-acetylcarnitine decreased to below the limits of assay.", "PMID": 446778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7766", "title": "A new long-acting injectable microcapsule system for the administration of progesterone.", "content": "A long-acting injectable microcapsule system for the controlled-release systemic administration of progesterone (P4) is described. The system consists of microcapsules made of the biodegradable polymer, d,l-polylactic acid, which contain crystalline P4. Following injection, P4 is released from the microcapsules by diffusion and biodegradation of the polymer matrix. The rate of P4 release from the prototype microcapsule system in vivo is 1.3 microgram of P4/day/mg of microcapsules, and the duration of release is 30 days. Vaginal estrous cycles in rats and cyclic ovarian function in baboons were inhibited for 1 month following a single injection of P4 microcapsules. The effects of continuous progesterone therapy on reproductive function in both rats and baboons are dose-dependent. The utility of the system as a once-a-month injectable contraceptive is established in the baboon model.", "contents": "A new long-acting injectable microcapsule system for the administration of progesterone. A long-acting injectable microcapsule system for the controlled-release systemic administration of progesterone (P4) is described. The system consists of microcapsules made of the biodegradable polymer, d,l-polylactic acid, which contain crystalline P4. Following injection, P4 is released from the microcapsules by diffusion and biodegradation of the polymer matrix. The rate of P4 release from the prototype microcapsule system in vivo is 1.3 microgram of P4/day/mg of microcapsules, and the duration of release is 30 days. Vaginal estrous cycles in rats and cyclic ovarian function in baboons were inhibited for 1 month following a single injection of P4 microcapsules. The effects of continuous progesterone therapy on reproductive function in both rats and baboons are dose-dependent. The utility of the system as a once-a-month injectable contraceptive is established in the baboon model.", "PMID": 446779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7767", "title": "Competitive progesterone antagonists: receptor binding and biologic activity of testosterone and 19-nortestosterone derivatives.", "content": "Testosterone and 19-nortestosterone derivatives were evaluated in a developmental scheme designed to identify competitive progesterone antagonists having abortifacient activity. Compounds that displayed significant binding to the rabbit uterine progesterone receptor were followed in biologic tests for progestational, antiprogestational, and abortifacient activities. Of the seven compounds tested for both progestational and antiprogestational activity, only one, 5 alpha-dihydronorethindrone, behaved exclusively as an antagonist. Five other 19-nortestosterones (19-nortestosterone, 17 beta-hydroxyestra-4, 9(10)-dien-3-one, norethindrone, norethindrone acetate, and R 2323) proved to be mixed agonists/antagonists. 5 alpha-Dihydronorethindrone, norethindrone, and 19-nortestosterone terminated pregnancy during the postnidatory period in rats; in addition, the latter two compounds inhibited progesterone-supported pregnancy in spayed rats and curtailed pregnancy during the postnidatory period in hamsters. These results demonstrate that several 19-nortestosterone derivatives bind to the uterine progesterone receptor and behave either as antagonists or mixed agonists/antagonists.", "contents": "Competitive progesterone antagonists: receptor binding and biologic activity of testosterone and 19-nortestosterone derivatives. Testosterone and 19-nortestosterone derivatives were evaluated in a developmental scheme designed to identify competitive progesterone antagonists having abortifacient activity. Compounds that displayed significant binding to the rabbit uterine progesterone receptor were followed in biologic tests for progestational, antiprogestational, and abortifacient activities. Of the seven compounds tested for both progestational and antiprogestational activity, only one, 5 alpha-dihydronorethindrone, behaved exclusively as an antagonist. Five other 19-nortestosterones (19-nortestosterone, 17 beta-hydroxyestra-4, 9(10)-dien-3-one, norethindrone, norethindrone acetate, and R 2323) proved to be mixed agonists/antagonists. 5 alpha-Dihydronorethindrone, norethindrone, and 19-nortestosterone terminated pregnancy during the postnidatory period in rats; in addition, the latter two compounds inhibited progesterone-supported pregnancy in spayed rats and curtailed pregnancy during the postnidatory period in hamsters. These results demonstrate that several 19-nortestosterone derivatives bind to the uterine progesterone receptor and behave either as antagonists or mixed agonists/antagonists.", "PMID": 446780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7768", "title": "Development of a reversible vas deferens occlusive device. VI. Long-term evaluation of flexible prosthetic devices.", "content": "Fifty-three dogs received implants of several types of flexible devices containing valving mechanisms. These devices were constructed entirely of silicone rubber with the exception of the valve stem, which was made of stainless steel. Generally, the devices were (1) implanted in the open mode and left this way for 27 to 44 months, (2) implanted in the closed mode and kept this way for 11 to 12 months before the valves were reopened, (3) implanted in either the closed or open mode and cycled to the opposite mode every 3 months (four or five cycles), or (4) implanted in either the closed or open mode and cycled to the opposite mode every 6 months (two or three cycles). Different implant methods were also evaluated. Semen analyses were regularly performed on all of the dogs, and a number of the animals were bred during the experiments. It can be concluded that (1) the devices can be opened and closed successfully over long periods, respectively allowing and preventing sperm transport; (2) the breeding ability of the animals is not impaired while the devices are in the open mode, independent of the type of device; (3) the devices do not result in an enhanced incidence of congenital abnormalities in the offspring; and (4) the success rate of device performance does not depend on the method of implanatation used. Thus, the results clearly indicate that the basic mechanism of a soft, reversible valve is a feasible approach to conception control.", "contents": "Development of a reversible vas deferens occlusive device. VI. Long-term evaluation of flexible prosthetic devices. Fifty-three dogs received implants of several types of flexible devices containing valving mechanisms. These devices were constructed entirely of silicone rubber with the exception of the valve stem, which was made of stainless steel. Generally, the devices were (1) implanted in the open mode and left this way for 27 to 44 months, (2) implanted in the closed mode and kept this way for 11 to 12 months before the valves were reopened, (3) implanted in either the closed or open mode and cycled to the opposite mode every 3 months (four or five cycles), or (4) implanted in either the closed or open mode and cycled to the opposite mode every 6 months (two or three cycles). Different implant methods were also evaluated. Semen analyses were regularly performed on all of the dogs, and a number of the animals were bred during the experiments. It can be concluded that (1) the devices can be opened and closed successfully over long periods, respectively allowing and preventing sperm transport; (2) the breeding ability of the animals is not impaired while the devices are in the open mode, independent of the type of device; (3) the devices do not result in an enhanced incidence of congenital abnormalities in the offspring; and (4) the success rate of device performance does not depend on the method of implanatation used. Thus, the results clearly indicate that the basic mechanism of a soft, reversible valve is a feasible approach to conception control.", "PMID": 446781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7769", "title": "Better postcoital test for oligospermic patients using split ejaculate artificial insemination.", "content": "In 25 oligospermic patients who had negative postcoital tests, artificial inseminations were performed with the whole semen and split ejaculates. After 30 minutes, a sample of cervical mucus was obtained and examined microscopically for the presence of motile spermatozoa. There was a significant improvement of 64% using the split ejaculate, as compared with 44% using whole semen. We found a significantly higher sperm count and progressive motility in the split ejaculate (18 patients, 72%).", "contents": "Better postcoital test for oligospermic patients using split ejaculate artificial insemination. In 25 oligospermic patients who had negative postcoital tests, artificial inseminations were performed with the whole semen and split ejaculates. After 30 minutes, a sample of cervical mucus was obtained and examined microscopically for the presence of motile spermatozoa. There was a significant improvement of 64% using the split ejaculate, as compared with 44% using whole semen. We found a significantly higher sperm count and progressive motility in the split ejaculate (18 patients, 72%).", "PMID": 446782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7770", "title": "Impotence, smoking, and beta-blocking drugs.", "content": "Four patients complaining of erectile dysfunction and using tobacco or propranolol were examined with penile blood pressure measurements and Doppler recordings, calculating the penile acceleration ratio (PAR). After a change in regimen, erectile capacity was restored, PAR returned to normal, and blood pressure measurements revealed increased systolic penile blood pressure in three patients. The changes, especially in PAR, indicate a marked penile vascular reaction during smoking and beta-blocking treatment in these men.", "contents": "Impotence, smoking, and beta-blocking drugs. Four patients complaining of erectile dysfunction and using tobacco or propranolol were examined with penile blood pressure measurements and Doppler recordings, calculating the penile acceleration ratio (PAR). After a change in regimen, erectile capacity was restored, PAR returned to normal, and blood pressure measurements revealed increased systolic penile blood pressure in three patients. The changes, especially in PAR, indicate a marked penile vascular reaction during smoking and beta-blocking treatment in these men.", "PMID": 446783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7771", "title": "Pituitary tumors associated with hyperprolactinemia and polycystic ovarian disease.", "content": "Galactorrhea and hyperprolactinemia, or both, have been described in some patients with polycystic ovarian disease. Three patients who had had previous bilateral wedge resection of the ovaries and who manifested persistent amenorrhea were found to have elevated levels of serum prolactin (180 to 540 ng/ml) 5 to 10 years later. All three patients initially demonstrated moderate hirsutism and failed to experience withdrawal bleeding after administration of progesterone or clomiphene citrate. Polytomographic evidence suggestive of an intrasellar tumor was present when elevated serum prolactin levels were noted. (Routine sellar roentgenograms prior to wedge resection had been reported as normal.) Two of the three patients underwent transsphenoidal surgery with removal of an 8-mm diameter chromophobe adenoma in each instance. Although serum prolactin levels decreased to 32 and 102 ng/ml, respectively, amenorrhea has persisted with gradual cessation of galactorrhea over a 1- to 2-year follow-up period. Our experience with the reported three cases supports the conclusion that in some cases an association may exist between polycystic ovarian disease and prolactin-producing adenomas.", "contents": "Pituitary tumors associated with hyperprolactinemia and polycystic ovarian disease. Galactorrhea and hyperprolactinemia, or both, have been described in some patients with polycystic ovarian disease. Three patients who had had previous bilateral wedge resection of the ovaries and who manifested persistent amenorrhea were found to have elevated levels of serum prolactin (180 to 540 ng/ml) 5 to 10 years later. All three patients initially demonstrated moderate hirsutism and failed to experience withdrawal bleeding after administration of progesterone or clomiphene citrate. Polytomographic evidence suggestive of an intrasellar tumor was present when elevated serum prolactin levels were noted. (Routine sellar roentgenograms prior to wedge resection had been reported as normal.) Two of the three patients underwent transsphenoidal surgery with removal of an 8-mm diameter chromophobe adenoma in each instance. Although serum prolactin levels decreased to 32 and 102 ng/ml, respectively, amenorrhea has persisted with gradual cessation of galactorrhea over a 1- to 2-year follow-up period. Our experience with the reported three cases supports the conclusion that in some cases an association may exist between polycystic ovarian disease and prolactin-producing adenomas.", "PMID": 446785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7772", "title": "Gestational outcome of clomiphene-related conceptions.", "content": "The experience of the gynecologic endocrinology and infertility clinic at The Johns Hopkins Hospital has been subjected to a nonconcurrent prospective analysis in an attempt to evaluate the gestational fate of clomiphene-related conceptions (study series, n = 86). This latter series was contrasted with a series of pregnancies following bilateral ovarian wedge resection (BOWR) (n = 51) in a comparative analysis of gestational outcome event rates. Post-therapy follow-up was available for varying time spans of up to 15 years. A 12.8% twinning rate constituted the single most important complication of clomiphene therapy, resulting in measurable increments in perinatal morbidity and mortality rates. The observation of a 26.5% spontaneous abortion rate would seem to suggest that clomiphene-related conceptions are at little or more risk for spontaneous abortion than would have been expected from the infertile population under discussion. A 3.1% incidence of post-clomiphene birth defects was not increased as compared with commonly quoted rates for the population at large. The corresponding incidence rates of twinning, spontaneous abortion, and birth defects for the BOWR series were 0%, 21.6%, and 0%, respectively.", "contents": "Gestational outcome of clomiphene-related conceptions. The experience of the gynecologic endocrinology and infertility clinic at The Johns Hopkins Hospital has been subjected to a nonconcurrent prospective analysis in an attempt to evaluate the gestational fate of clomiphene-related conceptions (study series, n = 86). This latter series was contrasted with a series of pregnancies following bilateral ovarian wedge resection (BOWR) (n = 51) in a comparative analysis of gestational outcome event rates. Post-therapy follow-up was available for varying time spans of up to 15 years. A 12.8% twinning rate constituted the single most important complication of clomiphene therapy, resulting in measurable increments in perinatal morbidity and mortality rates. The observation of a 26.5% spontaneous abortion rate would seem to suggest that clomiphene-related conceptions are at little or more risk for spontaneous abortion than would have been expected from the infertile population under discussion. A 3.1% incidence of post-clomiphene birth defects was not increased as compared with commonly quoted rates for the population at large. The corresponding incidence rates of twinning, spontaneous abortion, and birth defects for the BOWR series were 0%, 21.6%, and 0%, respectively.", "PMID": 446786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7773", "title": "Gel chromatographic properities of human prolactin released from decidua tissue in vitro.", "content": "Human decidua tissue releases immunoactive prolactin into the medium upon incubation in vitro. The prolactin secreted is indistinguishable from pituitary prolactin in its binding and displacement characteristics, using two different antisera. By gel chromatographic criteria more than 90% of the prolactin is monomeric.", "contents": "Gel chromatographic properities of human prolactin released from decidua tissue in vitro. Human decidua tissue releases immunoactive prolactin into the medium upon incubation in vitro. The prolactin secreted is indistinguishable from pituitary prolactin in its binding and displacement characteristics, using two different antisera. By gel chromatographic criteria more than 90% of the prolactin is monomeric.", "PMID": 446789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7774", "title": "Measurement of the ovarian follicle by ultrasound in ovulation induction.", "content": "Ultrasonic monitoring of ovarian follicles and estimation of serum estradiol were carried out in 12 patients with clomiphene therapy, in 5 patients with gonadotropin therapy, and in 7 normal controls. The average diameter of preovulatory follicles in normal controls was 12,8 mm; in ovulation induction groups it was 2 to 4 mm greater. The level of serum estradiol was also higher in ovulation induction groups than in normal controls. The combined use of these two methods is recommended: ultrasonic monitoring to minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies and estrogen level monitoring to minimize the risk of hyperstimulation. Ultrasound is also safe and practical in following the size of hyperstimulated ovaries.", "contents": "Measurement of the ovarian follicle by ultrasound in ovulation induction. Ultrasonic monitoring of ovarian follicles and estimation of serum estradiol were carried out in 12 patients with clomiphene therapy, in 5 patients with gonadotropin therapy, and in 7 normal controls. The average diameter of preovulatory follicles in normal controls was 12,8 mm; in ovulation induction groups it was 2 to 4 mm greater. The level of serum estradiol was also higher in ovulation induction groups than in normal controls. The combined use of these two methods is recommended: ultrasonic monitoring to minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies and estrogen level monitoring to minimize the risk of hyperstimulation. Ultrasound is also safe and practical in following the size of hyperstimulated ovaries.", "PMID": 446790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7775", "title": "Ureaplasma urealyticum and human infertility: the effect of antibiotic therapy on semen quality.", "content": "Semen characteristics were evaluated in 64 men visiting our infertility clinic before and after the eradication of genital infection with Ureaplasma urealyticum. Semen quality was also analyzed in 9 men who were unsuccessfully treated for genital Ureaplasma infection, 11 men who had negative cultures and received no treatment, and 11 men who had negative cultures but received empirical antibiotic therapy. A significant improvement in spermatozoal motility (both the speed of forward progession and the percentage of motile cells) was found in the group that was successfully treated for Ureaplasma infection. Improvements were not demonstrated in any of the other patient groups. A correlation was found between improved motility and a decrease in certain abnormal features of seminal cytology that appear to be associated with Ureaplasma genital infection.", "contents": "Ureaplasma urealyticum and human infertility: the effect of antibiotic therapy on semen quality. Semen characteristics were evaluated in 64 men visiting our infertility clinic before and after the eradication of genital infection with Ureaplasma urealyticum. Semen quality was also analyzed in 9 men who were unsuccessfully treated for genital Ureaplasma infection, 11 men who had negative cultures and received no treatment, and 11 men who had negative cultures but received empirical antibiotic therapy. A significant improvement in spermatozoal motility (both the speed of forward progession and the percentage of motile cells) was found in the group that was successfully treated for Ureaplasma infection. Improvements were not demonstrated in any of the other patient groups. A correlation was found between improved motility and a decrease in certain abnormal features of seminal cytology that appear to be associated with Ureaplasma genital infection.", "PMID": 446791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7776", "title": "Chorionic gonadotropins in the treatment of the subfertile male.", "content": "Sixty-four men with idiopathic subfertility were given human chorionic gonadotropin, 50,000 units in 10 divided doses. Sixty-nine per cent of the men demonstrated significant improvement in semen quality in response to the medication, and thirty-six per cent achieved a pregnancy. Eight patients have achieved a second pregnancy without additional therapy.", "contents": "Chorionic gonadotropins in the treatment of the subfertile male. Sixty-four men with idiopathic subfertility were given human chorionic gonadotropin, 50,000 units in 10 divided doses. Sixty-nine per cent of the men demonstrated significant improvement in semen quality in response to the medication, and thirty-six per cent achieved a pregnancy. Eight patients have achieved a second pregnancy without additional therapy.", "PMID": 446792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7777", "title": "The influence of fallopian tube length on fertility in the rabbit.", "content": "The correlation between the length of the oviduct and degree of fertility was studied in 16 New Zealand White rabbits subjected to microsurgical resection of differing lengths of fallopian tube involving the isthmus in each case. A highly significant (P less than 0.005) linear correlation was found, suggesting that more than 47% of an oviduct must remain distally before fertility can be anticipated. Absence of the isthmic segment of the fallopian tube was found to be associated with supracervical fetal implantations in the uterus. The importance of the assessment of tubal length as a prelude to reconstructive surgery, especially for reversal of sterilization, is emphasized.", "contents": "The influence of fallopian tube length on fertility in the rabbit. The correlation between the length of the oviduct and degree of fertility was studied in 16 New Zealand White rabbits subjected to microsurgical resection of differing lengths of fallopian tube involving the isthmus in each case. A highly significant (P less than 0.005) linear correlation was found, suggesting that more than 47% of an oviduct must remain distally before fertility can be anticipated. Absence of the isthmic segment of the fallopian tube was found to be associated with supracervical fetal implantations in the uterus. The importance of the assessment of tubal length as a prelude to reconstructive surgery, especially for reversal of sterilization, is emphasized.", "PMID": 446793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7778", "title": "The effect on fertility of vaccinating female sheep with biochemically defined fractions of ram spermatozoa.", "content": "Sixty sheep were vaccinated with six biochemically defined fractions of ram spermatozoa obtained by differential extraction procedures with 0.1% Triton X-100 and 2 M MgCl2, followed by ion-exchange chromatography. No one group showed a significant reduction in fertility as compared with the controls, but there was some evidence that MgCl2 extracts were not more potent infertility-inducing agents. Some of the mechanisms by which the immune response could influence fertility are also discussed.", "contents": "The effect on fertility of vaccinating female sheep with biochemically defined fractions of ram spermatozoa. Sixty sheep were vaccinated with six biochemically defined fractions of ram spermatozoa obtained by differential extraction procedures with 0.1% Triton X-100 and 2 M MgCl2, followed by ion-exchange chromatography. No one group showed a significant reduction in fertility as compared with the controls, but there was some evidence that MgCl2 extracts were not more potent infertility-inducing agents. Some of the mechanisms by which the immune response could influence fertility are also discussed.", "PMID": 446794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7779", "title": "The origin of human seminal leucine aminopeptidase (LAP).", "content": "Examination of the distribution of leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) activity in the male reproductive system showed the existence of the largest amounts of this enzyme in the prostate. Precipitin electrophoresis revealed that seminal LAP is immunologically identical with the prostatic enzyme and distinct from the enzymes in the other male reproductive organs. It was concluded that the origin of seminal LAP is the prostate, by which the enzyme is secreted into the seminal plasma.", "contents": "The origin of human seminal leucine aminopeptidase (LAP). Examination of the distribution of leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) activity in the male reproductive system showed the existence of the largest amounts of this enzyme in the prostate. Precipitin electrophoresis revealed that seminal LAP is immunologically identical with the prostatic enzyme and distinct from the enzymes in the other male reproductive organs. It was concluded that the origin of seminal LAP is the prostate, by which the enzyme is secreted into the seminal plasma.", "PMID": 446798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7780", "title": "[Lethal midline granuloma. A case report].", "content": "In their study of a case of lethal midline-granuloma, the authors describe the relations between this affection, Wegener's granulomatosis and lymphoma. The case under review illustrates the difficulty in accurately defining the nosologic picture of the disease. Anatomo-pathological examinations present two possibilities: one being malignant granuloma of the Stewart type, the other that of lymphoma. From its subsequent evolution, we may eventually learn whether this is purely a local illness or represents the onset of a systemic disease.", "contents": "[Lethal midline granuloma. A case report]. In their study of a case of lethal midline-granuloma, the authors describe the relations between this affection, Wegener's granulomatosis and lymphoma. The case under review illustrates the difficulty in accurately defining the nosologic picture of the disease. Anatomo-pathological examinations present two possibilities: one being malignant granuloma of the Stewart type, the other that of lymphoma. From its subsequent evolution, we may eventually learn whether this is purely a local illness or represents the onset of a systemic disease.", "PMID": 446817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7781", "title": "[Orthostatic hypotension in complicated diabetes mellitus: study of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (author's transl)].", "content": "Plasma renin activity (P.R.A.) and plasma aldosterone (P.A.) were studied basally and after various stimuli in eight diabetic subjects with orthostatic hypotension and autonomic neuropathy. Five of them had chronic renal failure and proteinuria. On a diet containing 100 mEq Na/24 H, mean P.R.A. was 0,80 +/- 0,32 ng/ml/h in the supine position and 0,95 +/- 0,43 ng/ml/h in the upright position (N.S.); mean P.A. was 111 +/- 77 pg/ml in the supine position and 234 pg/ml in the upright position (p less than 0,01). On a diet containing 10 mEq Na/24 H, mean P.R.A. was 1,54 +/- 0,76 ng/ml/h in the supine position and 2,44 +/- 1,53 ng/ml/h in the upright position (N.S.). There was little stimulation of P. R. A. by low sodium intakes. After furosemide (n = 6), epinephrine + norepinephrine (n = 4) or diazoxide (n = 2), there was no stimulation of P.R.A. and P.A. Thus in diabetic patients with orthostatic hypotension and autonomic neuropathy basal values of P.R.A. and P.A. are in the normal range but there is dysregulation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.", "contents": "[Orthostatic hypotension in complicated diabetes mellitus: study of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (author's transl)]. Plasma renin activity (P.R.A.) and plasma aldosterone (P.A.) were studied basally and after various stimuli in eight diabetic subjects with orthostatic hypotension and autonomic neuropathy. Five of them had chronic renal failure and proteinuria. On a diet containing 100 mEq Na/24 H, mean P.R.A. was 0,80 +/- 0,32 ng/ml/h in the supine position and 0,95 +/- 0,43 ng/ml/h in the upright position (N.S.); mean P.A. was 111 +/- 77 pg/ml in the supine position and 234 pg/ml in the upright position (p less than 0,01). On a diet containing 10 mEq Na/24 H, mean P.R.A. was 1,54 +/- 0,76 ng/ml/h in the supine position and 2,44 +/- 1,53 ng/ml/h in the upright position (N.S.). There was little stimulation of P. R. A. by low sodium intakes. After furosemide (n = 6), epinephrine + norepinephrine (n = 4) or diazoxide (n = 2), there was no stimulation of P.R.A. and P.A. Thus in diabetic patients with orthostatic hypotension and autonomic neuropathy basal values of P.R.A. and P.A. are in the normal range but there is dysregulation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.", "PMID": 446829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7782", "title": "The gastro-entero-pancreatic hormone secretion after a mixed meal in normal subjects before and after a 72 hour period of starvation.", "content": "The responses of plasma gastro-entero-pancreatic (GEP) hormones and free fatty acids (FFA) to a standard mixed meal before and after starvation have been measured. Raised insulin, glucose and FFA levels were found following refeeding after starvation and levels of secretin and C-terminal glucagon-like-immunoreactivity (C-GLI), raised by starvation, were rapidly suppressed on refeeding. The responses of gastrin and N-terminal glucagon-like-immunoreactivity (N-GLI) to a standard mixed meal were not altered by starvation. Although this study does not directly support that secretin and glucagon are responsible for the hyperglycaemia or hyperinsulinaemia of starvation diabetes, a role for both hormones in the raised FFA levels is proposed, as well as a role for glucagon in the initial hyperglycaemic response to a meal after starvation.", "contents": "The gastro-entero-pancreatic hormone secretion after a mixed meal in normal subjects before and after a 72 hour period of starvation. The responses of plasma gastro-entero-pancreatic (GEP) hormones and free fatty acids (FFA) to a standard mixed meal before and after starvation have been measured. Raised insulin, glucose and FFA levels were found following refeeding after starvation and levels of secretin and C-terminal glucagon-like-immunoreactivity (C-GLI), raised by starvation, were rapidly suppressed on refeeding. The responses of gastrin and N-terminal glucagon-like-immunoreactivity (N-GLI) to a standard mixed meal were not altered by starvation. Although this study does not directly support that secretin and glucagon are responsible for the hyperglycaemia or hyperinsulinaemia of starvation diabetes, a role for both hormones in the raised FFA levels is proposed, as well as a role for glucagon in the initial hyperglycaemic response to a meal after starvation.", "PMID": 446830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7783", "title": "Circadian and ultradian rhythms in the feeding behaviour and nutrient intakes of oil refinery operators with shift-work every 3--4 days.", "content": "Seven healthy adult men, five shift-workers and two non-shift-workers (from 21 to 36 years; mean = 26.4) volunteered to record what and when they ate, both at work and at home, every day, during eight consecutive weeks (Oct. - Dec. 1974). 1) All the subjects maintained the timing of main-meal (lunch and supper) during all shifts. 2) The major intake of protein and lipid was concentrated on the two main meals during all shifts. 3) Only the pattern of carbohydrate intake was modified by the shift-work: e.g. night-shift is associated with nibbling behaviour. 4) However, shift-work and in particular the occurence of nibbling behaviour did not result in change either in the mean 24 h caloric intake, or in the percentage of protein calories. 5) The comparison between the constancy of the timing of major meals and the shift of the timing of circadian rhythm acrophases of the 5 shift-workers leads to conclude that meal timing had a poor synchronizing effect, if any.", "contents": "Circadian and ultradian rhythms in the feeding behaviour and nutrient intakes of oil refinery operators with shift-work every 3--4 days. Seven healthy adult men, five shift-workers and two non-shift-workers (from 21 to 36 years; mean = 26.4) volunteered to record what and when they ate, both at work and at home, every day, during eight consecutive weeks (Oct. - Dec. 1974). 1) All the subjects maintained the timing of main-meal (lunch and supper) during all shifts. 2) The major intake of protein and lipid was concentrated on the two main meals during all shifts. 3) Only the pattern of carbohydrate intake was modified by the shift-work: e.g. night-shift is associated with nibbling behaviour. 4) However, shift-work and in particular the occurence of nibbling behaviour did not result in change either in the mean 24 h caloric intake, or in the percentage of protein calories. 5) The comparison between the constancy of the timing of major meals and the shift of the timing of circadian rhythm acrophases of the 5 shift-workers leads to conclude that meal timing had a poor synchronizing effect, if any.", "PMID": 446831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7784", "title": "[Effect of the streptozotocin diabetes upon the in vivo conversion of [I-14C] gamma-linolenic and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acids into arachidonic acid in rats (author's transl)].", "content": "Streptozotocin diabetic rats were administered the same tracer dose of either [1 14C] gamma-linolenic or [1 14C] dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid by stomach tube seven days after streptozotocin injection. They were killed 48 hours later and the radioactivity in individual fatty acids of the liver determined by radio-gas chromatography. Results were compared to those obtained in non diabetic rats similarly prepared. With either radioactive precursor, 14C radioactivity recovered in hepatic dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid was not significantly affected by the diabetic state. On the other hand, 14C radioactivity incorporated into arachidonic acid was considerably decreased in diabetic rats, compared with normal rats, when the weights of hepatic arachidonic acid were the same in the two groups of animals. These results suggest that streptozotocin diabetes causes a partial inhibition of the 5-desaturation of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid in rat liver in vivo.", "contents": "[Effect of the streptozotocin diabetes upon the in vivo conversion of [I-14C] gamma-linolenic and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acids into arachidonic acid in rats (author's transl)]. Streptozotocin diabetic rats were administered the same tracer dose of either [1 14C] gamma-linolenic or [1 14C] dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid by stomach tube seven days after streptozotocin injection. They were killed 48 hours later and the radioactivity in individual fatty acids of the liver determined by radio-gas chromatography. Results were compared to those obtained in non diabetic rats similarly prepared. With either radioactive precursor, 14C radioactivity recovered in hepatic dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid was not significantly affected by the diabetic state. On the other hand, 14C radioactivity incorporated into arachidonic acid was considerably decreased in diabetic rats, compared with normal rats, when the weights of hepatic arachidonic acid were the same in the two groups of animals. These results suggest that streptozotocin diabetes causes a partial inhibition of the 5-desaturation of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid in rat liver in vivo.", "PMID": 446832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7785", "title": "Effects of pregnancy and progesterone and/or oestradiol on the insulin secretion and pancreatic insulin content in the perfused rat pancreas.", "content": "Progesterone and oestradiol treatment of ovariectomized rats was administered leading to plasma steroid concentrations comparable to those of the pregnant rat. In these experimental conditions oestradiol enhanced insulin secretion but progesterone had little effect on B cell response to glucose (0.8 g/l and 1.4 g/l) of the perfused pancreas. At low glucose concentration (0.8 g/l) neither of the two steroids, added to the perfusion medium, had any effect on insulin release of the pancreas of the castrated animals; oestradiol exerted a facilitating action on glucose stimulation (1.4 g/l); progesterone had no effect. During pregnancy biphasic insulin secretion was enhanced, but pancreatic hormonal content was only increased at term. Neither oestradiol nor progesterone treatment changed pancreatic insulin content. It is concluded that oestradiol acts on insulin release at pancreatic level directly, whereas progesterone influences insulin release by causing insulin resistance.", "contents": "Effects of pregnancy and progesterone and/or oestradiol on the insulin secretion and pancreatic insulin content in the perfused rat pancreas. Progesterone and oestradiol treatment of ovariectomized rats was administered leading to plasma steroid concentrations comparable to those of the pregnant rat. In these experimental conditions oestradiol enhanced insulin secretion but progesterone had little effect on B cell response to glucose (0.8 g/l and 1.4 g/l) of the perfused pancreas. At low glucose concentration (0.8 g/l) neither of the two steroids, added to the perfusion medium, had any effect on insulin release of the pancreas of the castrated animals; oestradiol exerted a facilitating action on glucose stimulation (1.4 g/l); progesterone had no effect. During pregnancy biphasic insulin secretion was enhanced, but pancreatic hormonal content was only increased at term. Neither oestradiol nor progesterone treatment changed pancreatic insulin content. It is concluded that oestradiol acts on insulin release at pancreatic level directly, whereas progesterone influences insulin release by causing insulin resistance.", "PMID": 446833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7786", "title": "Effects of biguanides on the intermediate metabolism of glucose in normal and portal-strictured rats.", "content": "Phenformin and metformin treatments may be complicated by lactic adidosis. This metabolic complication seems favoured by preexistent hepatic disease. We have therefore compared the metabolic effects of phenformin and metformin on non fasting normal and portal-strictured rats. The latter group is characterized by impaired hepatic passage of these drugs without hepatocellular lesions. Given orally to normal rats over 5 days, phenformin (20 mg/kg/24 h) and metformin (150 mg/kg/24 h) decreased blood glucose levels and increased blood urea and the substrates of gluconeogenesis (alanine, glutamine, lactic and pyruvic acids), effects more apparent with phenformin than metformin. In non-treated portal strictured rats, blood glucose levels were lower and the intermediate metabolites were higher than in noraml rats, suggesting a modification of gluconeogenesis. Treatment of the portal strictured group by phenformin or metformin induced no changes in the studied parameters. This absence of effect of the biguanides in portal strictured rats supports the postulate that, in normal rats, biguanides act principally on hepatic metabolism by reducing gluconeogenesis and that, in the absence of other hepatic damage, the presence of a peri-hepatic shunt, which, by itself, modifies gluconeogenesis, does not further predispose to lactic acidosis during short term administration of biguanides.", "contents": "Effects of biguanides on the intermediate metabolism of glucose in normal and portal-strictured rats. Phenformin and metformin treatments may be complicated by lactic adidosis. This metabolic complication seems favoured by preexistent hepatic disease. We have therefore compared the metabolic effects of phenformin and metformin on non fasting normal and portal-strictured rats. The latter group is characterized by impaired hepatic passage of these drugs without hepatocellular lesions. Given orally to normal rats over 5 days, phenformin (20 mg/kg/24 h) and metformin (150 mg/kg/24 h) decreased blood glucose levels and increased blood urea and the substrates of gluconeogenesis (alanine, glutamine, lactic and pyruvic acids), effects more apparent with phenformin than metformin. In non-treated portal strictured rats, blood glucose levels were lower and the intermediate metabolites were higher than in noraml rats, suggesting a modification of gluconeogenesis. Treatment of the portal strictured group by phenformin or metformin induced no changes in the studied parameters. This absence of effect of the biguanides in portal strictured rats supports the postulate that, in normal rats, biguanides act principally on hepatic metabolism by reducing gluconeogenesis and that, in the absence of other hepatic damage, the presence of a peri-hepatic shunt, which, by itself, modifies gluconeogenesis, does not further predispose to lactic acidosis during short term administration of biguanides.", "PMID": 446834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7787", "title": "[Hemoglobin A1c and diabetes control (author's transl)].", "content": "Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a minor component of human hemoglobin resulting from a non enzymatic linkage of glucose with the NH2-terminal amino acid of the beta chain of hemoglobin. Under normal conditions, HbA1c represent about 5% of total hemoglobin. The HbA1c blood concentration increases in direct proportion of the duration and degree of hyperglycemia. Available procedures for measuring HbA1c include column chromatography, high pressure liquid chromatography, a colorimetric procedure based on the formation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and isoelectrofocusing. In a group of 138 patients, we have confirmed that HbA1c provides a useful means of evaluating the degree of diabetic control: the highest values have been recorded in cases of poor control, the lowest in cases of excellent control. In the latter case, the HbA1c values recorded were not statistically different from those obtained in a control group of 92 non-diabetic subjects. The interest of evaluating this parameter in diabetes is briefly analyzed.", "contents": "[Hemoglobin A1c and diabetes control (author's transl)]. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a minor component of human hemoglobin resulting from a non enzymatic linkage of glucose with the NH2-terminal amino acid of the beta chain of hemoglobin. Under normal conditions, HbA1c represent about 5% of total hemoglobin. The HbA1c blood concentration increases in direct proportion of the duration and degree of hyperglycemia. Available procedures for measuring HbA1c include column chromatography, high pressure liquid chromatography, a colorimetric procedure based on the formation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and isoelectrofocusing. In a group of 138 patients, we have confirmed that HbA1c provides a useful means of evaluating the degree of diabetic control: the highest values have been recorded in cases of poor control, the lowest in cases of excellent control. In the latter case, the HbA1c values recorded were not statistically different from those obtained in a control group of 92 non-diabetic subjects. The interest of evaluating this parameter in diabetes is briefly analyzed.", "PMID": 446835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7788", "title": "Spontaneous tumors in nude mice: effect of the viable yellow gene.", "content": "The incidence and type of spontaneous tumors in athymic nude (nu/nu) mice (partially inbred in CBA/H background) which were also carrying the viable yellow gene (Avy, derived from C57BL/6JAvy mice), were comparable to those observed in the phenotypically normal nu/+ and +/+ control crosses carrying the Avy gene. The Avy gene increases the incidence of spontaneous and induced tumors in most mouse strains. These results would argue against the thymus dependency of the putative immunological surveillance mechanisms.", "contents": "Spontaneous tumors in nude mice: effect of the viable yellow gene. The incidence and type of spontaneous tumors in athymic nude (nu/nu) mice (partially inbred in CBA/H background) which were also carrying the viable yellow gene (Avy, derived from C57BL/6JAvy mice), were comparable to those observed in the phenotypically normal nu/+ and +/+ control crosses carrying the Avy gene. The Avy gene increases the incidence of spontaneous and induced tumors in most mouse strains. These results would argue against the thymus dependency of the putative immunological surveillance mechanisms.", "PMID": 446837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7789", "title": "Establishment of human colon carcinoma lines in nude mice.", "content": "After subcutaneous inoculation into nude mice of 24 human colon adenocarcinomas, growth, defined as histopathologically confirmed tumor growth which has been passed, was observed in 13 cases (54%). Tumors from metastatic sites showed higher take rates (58%) than tumors from primary sites or recurrent tumors (50%). Nine continuous tumor lines were established (69% of growing tumors) with metastatic tumors establishing more readily (100% of growing tumors) than primary tumors (40%). The average period in primary transplant was shorter for metastasis (8.3 weeks), than for primary tumors (18.5 weeks); total material 10.6 weeks. Average periods between passages were shorter than primary transplant times; these periods were shorter for metastases (6.6 weeks) than for primary tumors (9.4 weeks); total material 7.4 weeks. Of four growing tumors not established as continuous lines, three were primary and one a recurrent tumor, and the loss of tumor growth occurred in very early passages, not later than passage 3. All nude mouse-grown colon tumors were moderately well differentiated.", "contents": "Establishment of human colon carcinoma lines in nude mice. After subcutaneous inoculation into nude mice of 24 human colon adenocarcinomas, growth, defined as histopathologically confirmed tumor growth which has been passed, was observed in 13 cases (54%). Tumors from metastatic sites showed higher take rates (58%) than tumors from primary sites or recurrent tumors (50%). Nine continuous tumor lines were established (69% of growing tumors) with metastatic tumors establishing more readily (100% of growing tumors) than primary tumors (40%). The average period in primary transplant was shorter for metastasis (8.3 weeks), than for primary tumors (18.5 weeks); total material 10.6 weeks. Average periods between passages were shorter than primary transplant times; these periods were shorter for metastases (6.6 weeks) than for primary tumors (9.4 weeks); total material 7.4 weeks. Of four growing tumors not established as continuous lines, three were primary and one a recurrent tumor, and the loss of tumor growth occurred in very early passages, not later than passage 3. All nude mouse-grown colon tumors were moderately well differentiated.", "PMID": 446838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7790", "title": "Increased nuclear size in BHK21 cells after treatment with non-toxic levels of calf thymus histones.", "content": "The effect of treatment with either whole calf thymus histones, or individually isolated histones, or polyarginine, or polylysine, on the nuclear size of BHK21 cells has been investigated. Incubation of the cells with mixed histones (12.5--44 microgram/ml) for 1 h considerably increased nuclear size. Increasing the histone concentration and/or the incubation time resulted in a decrease in the effect and could result in no change in nuclear size. Treatment of the cells with polyarginine or polylysine did not affect nuclear size. Experiments with individually isolated histones showed that the nuclear size effect was almost exclusively due to the histone H4. It is argued that the changes observed most likely resulted from interaction of H4 with the nucleus, and could reflect the properties of this particular histone molecule.", "contents": "Increased nuclear size in BHK21 cells after treatment with non-toxic levels of calf thymus histones. The effect of treatment with either whole calf thymus histones, or individually isolated histones, or polyarginine, or polylysine, on the nuclear size of BHK21 cells has been investigated. Incubation of the cells with mixed histones (12.5--44 microgram/ml) for 1 h considerably increased nuclear size. Increasing the histone concentration and/or the incubation time resulted in a decrease in the effect and could result in no change in nuclear size. Treatment of the cells with polyarginine or polylysine did not affect nuclear size. Experiments with individually isolated histones showed that the nuclear size effect was almost exclusively due to the histone H4. It is argued that the changes observed most likely resulted from interaction of H4 with the nucleus, and could reflect the properties of this particular histone molecule.", "PMID": 446839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7791", "title": "Type C RNA virus proteins: lack of binding specificity to host cell chromosomal DNA in vitro.", "content": "Through the use of two different DNA-protein reconstitution methods, we examined the potential role of type C RNA tumor virus proteins as putative regulatory agents in the control of virus expression. Rauscher murine leukemia virus, purified from chronically infected rat cell cultures, was iodinated in vitro with [125I], and dissociated in a nondetergent high-ionic-strength urea-containing buffer. The chemically separated [125I]-labeled viral polypetides were reconstituted with purified DNA by affinity column chromatography and by gradient dialysis renaturation. In both instances, no detectable amount of radioactivity specifically bound to double-stranded DNA of any origin. This observation was in contrast to the binding behavior of identically prepared and radiolabeled, nonhistone chromosomal proteins purified from rat cell nuclei. This finding may rule out, in eukaryotic cells, a well-described prokarytoic regulatory mechanism for the control of integrated viral gene expression.", "contents": "Type C RNA virus proteins: lack of binding specificity to host cell chromosomal DNA in vitro. Through the use of two different DNA-protein reconstitution methods, we examined the potential role of type C RNA tumor virus proteins as putative regulatory agents in the control of virus expression. Rauscher murine leukemia virus, purified from chronically infected rat cell cultures, was iodinated in vitro with [125I], and dissociated in a nondetergent high-ionic-strength urea-containing buffer. The chemically separated [125I]-labeled viral polypetides were reconstituted with purified DNA by affinity column chromatography and by gradient dialysis renaturation. In both instances, no detectable amount of radioactivity specifically bound to double-stranded DNA of any origin. This observation was in contrast to the binding behavior of identically prepared and radiolabeled, nonhistone chromosomal proteins purified from rat cell nuclei. This finding may rule out, in eukaryotic cells, a well-described prokarytoic regulatory mechanism for the control of integrated viral gene expression.", "PMID": 446840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7792", "title": "Differential DNA damage induced by chemical mutagens in cells growing in a modified Selye's granuloma pouch.", "content": "Rapid growth of granulation tissue was induced in rats by injection of croton oil into a subcutaneous air pocket. Growth characteristics of the granulation tissue were evaluated by histopathologic techniques and measurement of 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA. The DNA of cells growing in the granuloma was labeled with 3H-thymidine. Subsequently, 4 classes of test chemicals (monofunctional and polyfunctional alkylating agents, DNA intercalating agents and chemicals not known to interact with DNA) were injected intraperitoneally. The presence of single-strand breaks was assayed in DNA of granuloma tissue using the alkaline elution technique. DNA breaks were primarily induced by monofunctional alkylating agents and were characteristic for each compound. DNA from animals treated with polyfunctional alkylating agents and DNA-intercalating agents showed a variable degree of resistance to methylmethane sulfonate-induced DNA breakage.", "contents": "Differential DNA damage induced by chemical mutagens in cells growing in a modified Selye's granuloma pouch. Rapid growth of granulation tissue was induced in rats by injection of croton oil into a subcutaneous air pocket. Growth characteristics of the granulation tissue were evaluated by histopathologic techniques and measurement of 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA. The DNA of cells growing in the granuloma was labeled with 3H-thymidine. Subsequently, 4 classes of test chemicals (monofunctional and polyfunctional alkylating agents, DNA intercalating agents and chemicals not known to interact with DNA) were injected intraperitoneally. The presence of single-strand breaks was assayed in DNA of granuloma tissue using the alkaline elution technique. DNA breaks were primarily induced by monofunctional alkylating agents and were characteristic for each compound. DNA from animals treated with polyfunctional alkylating agents and DNA-intercalating agents showed a variable degree of resistance to methylmethane sulfonate-induced DNA breakage.", "PMID": 446841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7793", "title": "Chick-comb fibroblasts. A new strain of cultured cells sensitive to androgens.", "content": "An androgen-responsive cell strain of chick-comb fibroblasts has been established in culture. Cells were obtained from combs of 1--2 day old white Leghorn cockerels and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum and 6 g/l glucose. The cells required serum but not androgens for growth. In the presence of androgens, growth rate and incorporation of labeled precursors into protein and RNA were markedly increased in exponentially growing cells, but not in confluent cultures. Androgens exerted these stimulatory effects in a dose-dependent fashion. It is concluded that chick-comb fibroblasts, which respond to androgens in vivo, retain this responsiveness when cultured. They furnish a well-defined system of potential value for studies of the molecular mechanisms of androgen action.", "contents": "Chick-comb fibroblasts. A new strain of cultured cells sensitive to androgens. An androgen-responsive cell strain of chick-comb fibroblasts has been established in culture. Cells were obtained from combs of 1--2 day old white Leghorn cockerels and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum and 6 g/l glucose. The cells required serum but not androgens for growth. In the presence of androgens, growth rate and incorporation of labeled precursors into protein and RNA were markedly increased in exponentially growing cells, but not in confluent cultures. Androgens exerted these stimulatory effects in a dose-dependent fashion. It is concluded that chick-comb fibroblasts, which respond to androgens in vivo, retain this responsiveness when cultured. They furnish a well-defined system of potential value for studies of the molecular mechanisms of androgen action.", "PMID": 446876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7794", "title": "Steroid receptors and steroid response in cultured L1210 murine leukemia cells.", "content": "Murine L1210 leukemia cells were cultured in the presence of various steroid hormones to determine their growth response. Cells maintained in medium containing glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone exhibit a 10--20% inhibition of growth, whereas progesterone of 17 beta estradiol produce a 40--50% inhibition of growth. The response is due to growth inhibition and not to any cytolytic effect of the steroids. L1210 cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts contain high affinity binding sites for [3H]dexamethasone, [3H]progesterone and [3H]17 beta-estradiol. Competition with various steroids indicate that estrogens bind to one class of cytoplasmic binding sites, while glucocorticoids and progestins bind to a second class of receptor sites. These receptors appear not be be completely responsible for growth inhibition since there is no correlation between the magnitude of growth inhibition and the intracellular concentration of receptor sites, and since the concentration of steroid required to cause significant growth inhibition exceeds those concentrations required to saturate the cytoplasmic receptors.", "contents": "Steroid receptors and steroid response in cultured L1210 murine leukemia cells. Murine L1210 leukemia cells were cultured in the presence of various steroid hormones to determine their growth response. Cells maintained in medium containing glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone exhibit a 10--20% inhibition of growth, whereas progesterone of 17 beta estradiol produce a 40--50% inhibition of growth. The response is due to growth inhibition and not to any cytolytic effect of the steroids. L1210 cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts contain high affinity binding sites for [3H]dexamethasone, [3H]progesterone and [3H]17 beta-estradiol. Competition with various steroids indicate that estrogens bind to one class of cytoplasmic binding sites, while glucocorticoids and progestins bind to a second class of receptor sites. These receptors appear not be be completely responsible for growth inhibition since there is no correlation between the magnitude of growth inhibition and the intracellular concentration of receptor sites, and since the concentration of steroid required to cause significant growth inhibition exceeds those concentrations required to saturate the cytoplasmic receptors.", "PMID": 446877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7795", "title": "Competitive binding studies with glucocorticoid receptors from rat-thymus cells: differential temperature-dependence of steroid binding.", "content": "Competitive steroid-binding studies were performed with intact rat thymus cells and with cytosol preparations at different temperatures using [1,2-3H]dexamethasone as the labelled ligand. Steroids lacking a 17 alpha-hydroxyl group, such as corticosterone, were better able to compete with [1,2-3H]dexamethasone for binding to glucocorticoid receptors at 0 degrees C than compounds containing a 17 alpha-hydroxyl substituent, such as cortisol. At 37 degrees C the reverse was true. This temperature-dependent change in relative affinities appeared to be unrelated to steroid metabolism or receptor activation, and to depend only on the thermodynamic parameters of the steroid--receptor interaction. Relative biological activities for different steroids agree more closely with the relative affinities determined at 37 degrees C than with those determined at lower temperatures.", "contents": "Competitive binding studies with glucocorticoid receptors from rat-thymus cells: differential temperature-dependence of steroid binding. Competitive steroid-binding studies were performed with intact rat thymus cells and with cytosol preparations at different temperatures using [1,2-3H]dexamethasone as the labelled ligand. Steroids lacking a 17 alpha-hydroxyl group, such as corticosterone, were better able to compete with [1,2-3H]dexamethasone for binding to glucocorticoid receptors at 0 degrees C than compounds containing a 17 alpha-hydroxyl substituent, such as cortisol. At 37 degrees C the reverse was true. This temperature-dependent change in relative affinities appeared to be unrelated to steroid metabolism or receptor activation, and to depend only on the thermodynamic parameters of the steroid--receptor interaction. Relative biological activities for different steroids agree more closely with the relative affinities determined at 37 degrees C than with those determined at lower temperatures.", "PMID": 446878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7796", "title": "Evidence for Leydig cell dysfunction in rats with seminiferous tubule damage.", "content": "To study the effects of seminiferous tubule damage on Leydig cell function and morphology, rats were treated by fetal irradiation (to induce Sertoli cell-only syndrome, SCO), 3 months administration of hydroxyurea (HU), or chronic feeding of a vitamin A-deficient diet (VAD). Leydig cell function was assessed by the measurement of serum LH and testosterone and the response of serum testosterone to hCG stimulation, while morphology was studied by electron microscopy after perfusion fixation. Serum LH was significantly elevated in each experimental group, while basal serum testosterone was significantly lower only in SCO rats. In all treatment groups, the serum testosterone response to hCG was significantly decreased when measureed as the area under the response curve. Despite a decreased response to hCG, the Leydig cells were larger than normal and showed striking increases in quantities of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and Golgi complex. Leydig cell dysfunction has been demonstrated in animals with varying degrees of seminiferous tubule damage, but paradoxically the cytological features of the Leydig cells were indicative of hypertrophy.", "contents": "Evidence for Leydig cell dysfunction in rats with seminiferous tubule damage. To study the effects of seminiferous tubule damage on Leydig cell function and morphology, rats were treated by fetal irradiation (to induce Sertoli cell-only syndrome, SCO), 3 months administration of hydroxyurea (HU), or chronic feeding of a vitamin A-deficient diet (VAD). Leydig cell function was assessed by the measurement of serum LH and testosterone and the response of serum testosterone to hCG stimulation, while morphology was studied by electron microscopy after perfusion fixation. Serum LH was significantly elevated in each experimental group, while basal serum testosterone was significantly lower only in SCO rats. In all treatment groups, the serum testosterone response to hCG was significantly decreased when measureed as the area under the response curve. Despite a decreased response to hCG, the Leydig cells were larger than normal and showed striking increases in quantities of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and Golgi complex. Leydig cell dysfunction has been demonstrated in animals with varying degrees of seminiferous tubule damage, but paradoxically the cytological features of the Leydig cells were indicative of hypertrophy.", "PMID": 446879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7797", "title": "Biosynthesis of MSH and related peptides in the pars intermedia of the mouse: a pulse-chase analysis.", "content": "Protein biosynthesis in neurointermediate lobes of mouse pituitaries was investigated using pulse and pulse-chase techniques with [3H]lysine. Electrophoretic analysis of lobe homogenates on acid-urea gels resolved 11 labeled products. One was a large protein which was rapidly synthesized during pulse-incubations and disappeared during chase incubations. Three of the products increased during chase incubations, suggesting a precursor-product mode of biosynthesis for these chasde peptides. One of these three products co-migrated with synthetic alpha-MSH and also corresponds to the major peak of mouse neurointermediate lobe MSH bioactivity and immunoactivity on electrophoretograms. Another case of these peptides has electrophoretic properties similar to those of ACTH.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of MSH and related peptides in the pars intermedia of the mouse: a pulse-chase analysis. Protein biosynthesis in neurointermediate lobes of mouse pituitaries was investigated using pulse and pulse-chase techniques with [3H]lysine. Electrophoretic analysis of lobe homogenates on acid-urea gels resolved 11 labeled products. One was a large protein which was rapidly synthesized during pulse-incubations and disappeared during chase incubations. Three of the products increased during chase incubations, suggesting a precursor-product mode of biosynthesis for these chasde peptides. One of these three products co-migrated with synthetic alpha-MSH and also corresponds to the major peak of mouse neurointermediate lobe MSH bioactivity and immunoactivity on electrophoretograms. Another case of these peptides has electrophoretic properties similar to those of ACTH.", "PMID": 446880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7798", "title": "The endometrial nuclear estradiol receptor of the pregnant cow has a molecular weight of 53,000 in 6 M guanidine-HCl.", "content": "Cell nuclei isolated from the endometrium of the 3 months pregnant cow were dialysed against 6 M guanidine-HCl + 0.1 M 2-mercaptoethanol. The resulting material (after eliminating the bulk of DNA by centrifugation) was filtered on a Sepharose 6/b column equilibrated in the above denaturing solvent. The molecular weight of the denatured \"nuclear\" estradiol receptor, estimated by a method described previously (T. Erdos and J. Fries (1974) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 58, 932-939), was about 53,000. This value is similar to that of the cytoplasmic receptor (55,000) but dissimilar to that of the cytoplasmic receptor transformed by the action of the Receptor Transforming Factor (35,000) estimated under the same experimental conditions, suggesting that the latter form of the receptor is not the biological precursor of the \"nuclear\" receptor. However, according to indirect estimates, probably not more than 10% of the \"nuclear\" receptor has been renatured in these experiments. Therefore the alternative that the results obtained are not representative for the \"nuclear\" receptor, cannot be excluded.", "contents": "The endometrial nuclear estradiol receptor of the pregnant cow has a molecular weight of 53,000 in 6 M guanidine-HCl. Cell nuclei isolated from the endometrium of the 3 months pregnant cow were dialysed against 6 M guanidine-HCl + 0.1 M 2-mercaptoethanol. The resulting material (after eliminating the bulk of DNA by centrifugation) was filtered on a Sepharose 6/b column equilibrated in the above denaturing solvent. The molecular weight of the denatured \"nuclear\" estradiol receptor, estimated by a method described previously (T. Erdos and J. Fries (1974) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 58, 932-939), was about 53,000. This value is similar to that of the cytoplasmic receptor (55,000) but dissimilar to that of the cytoplasmic receptor transformed by the action of the Receptor Transforming Factor (35,000) estimated under the same experimental conditions, suggesting that the latter form of the receptor is not the biological precursor of the \"nuclear\" receptor. However, according to indirect estimates, probably not more than 10% of the \"nuclear\" receptor has been renatured in these experiments. Therefore the alternative that the results obtained are not representative for the \"nuclear\" receptor, cannot be excluded.", "PMID": 446882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7799", "title": "Glucocorticoid receptor in human embryo fibroblasts. I. Kinetic and physicochemical properties.", "content": "The kinetics of dexamethasone binding to L 809 E cell line cytosol have been investigated by means of the protamine sulfate precipitation assay. The KDeq for dexamethasone was 1.1--3.3 nM. Binding was specific for glucocorticoids. The mean association rate constant (k+1) was 8.5 x 10(5) M-1 x min-1 and the dissociation rate constant was 4.6 x 10(-5) min-1 at 0 degrees C. The concentration of binding sites was 0.3 pmol/mg of cytosol protein. Binding kinetics were compatible with a model of positive cooperativity. The receptor sedimented at 7.5--9 S in glycerol gradients. By a combination of calibrated ultracentrifugation and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, a Stokes radius of 8.5 nm, a molecular weight of 268 000 daltons and a frictional ratio of 1.8 were determined in low ionic strength conditions. When the cells were incubated with 10 nM [3H]dexamethasone for 1 h, a more than 90% depletion of cytosol receptor and an equivalent accumulation of nuclear dexamethasone--receptor complexes was observed.", "contents": "Glucocorticoid receptor in human embryo fibroblasts. I. Kinetic and physicochemical properties. The kinetics of dexamethasone binding to L 809 E cell line cytosol have been investigated by means of the protamine sulfate precipitation assay. The KDeq for dexamethasone was 1.1--3.3 nM. Binding was specific for glucocorticoids. The mean association rate constant (k+1) was 8.5 x 10(5) M-1 x min-1 and the dissociation rate constant was 4.6 x 10(-5) min-1 at 0 degrees C. The concentration of binding sites was 0.3 pmol/mg of cytosol protein. Binding kinetics were compatible with a model of positive cooperativity. The receptor sedimented at 7.5--9 S in glycerol gradients. By a combination of calibrated ultracentrifugation and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, a Stokes radius of 8.5 nm, a molecular weight of 268 000 daltons and a frictional ratio of 1.8 were determined in low ionic strength conditions. When the cells were incubated with 10 nM [3H]dexamethasone for 1 h, a more than 90% depletion of cytosol receptor and an equivalent accumulation of nuclear dexamethasone--receptor complexes was observed.", "PMID": 446883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7800", "title": "Nature of RNAs synthesised in rat liver in response to hydrocortisone.", "content": "Experiments on hybridization of [32P]HnRNA from hydrocortisone-treated rat liver with rat-liver DNA, in competition with unlabelled liver HnRNA from hormone-deficient and treated rats, revealed marked differences in their nucleotide sequence homologies. It was found that the hormone-induced new species of HnRNAs were transcribed both on middle-repetitive and non-repetitive sequences of DNA. However similar differences in the sequence homologies were not detectable in respect of mRNA derived from livers of hydrocortisone-administered and adrenalectomised rats. The results imply that the new species of HnRNA synthesized following hormone treatment may be confined to the nucleus.", "contents": "Nature of RNAs synthesised in rat liver in response to hydrocortisone. Experiments on hybridization of [32P]HnRNA from hydrocortisone-treated rat liver with rat-liver DNA, in competition with unlabelled liver HnRNA from hormone-deficient and treated rats, revealed marked differences in their nucleotide sequence homologies. It was found that the hormone-induced new species of HnRNAs were transcribed both on middle-repetitive and non-repetitive sequences of DNA. However similar differences in the sequence homologies were not detectable in respect of mRNA derived from livers of hydrocortisone-administered and adrenalectomised rats. The results imply that the new species of HnRNA synthesized following hormone treatment may be confined to the nucleus.", "PMID": 446884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7801", "title": "Estrogen-induced prolactin and DNA synthesis in immature female rat pituitaries.", "content": "Estradiol is likely involved in stimulating developmental changes in the ability of the rat pituitary to secrete prolactin. To investigate the possibility that these changes involve proliferation of prolactin cells, estradiol effects on pituitary growth and prolactin synthesis were examined. Estradiol treatment of immature female rats stimulates increases in pituitary weight, [3H] thymidine incorporation, DNA content and prolactin synthesis. Treatment of rats with the DNA synthesis inhibitor, hydroxyurea, partially blocked the ability of estradiol to stimulate prolactin synthesis suggesting that at least part of the effect of estrogen is due to cell proliferation. These results suggest that estrogen-induced proliferation of prolactin cells is involved in the developmental processes of the pituitary.", "contents": "Estrogen-induced prolactin and DNA synthesis in immature female rat pituitaries. Estradiol is likely involved in stimulating developmental changes in the ability of the rat pituitary to secrete prolactin. To investigate the possibility that these changes involve proliferation of prolactin cells, estradiol effects on pituitary growth and prolactin synthesis were examined. Estradiol treatment of immature female rats stimulates increases in pituitary weight, [3H] thymidine incorporation, DNA content and prolactin synthesis. Treatment of rats with the DNA synthesis inhibitor, hydroxyurea, partially blocked the ability of estradiol to stimulate prolactin synthesis suggesting that at least part of the effect of estrogen is due to cell proliferation. These results suggest that estrogen-induced proliferation of prolactin cells is involved in the developmental processes of the pituitary.", "PMID": 446885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7802", "title": "Tissue and serum somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in fed, 15-h-fasted, and 72-h-fasted rats.", "content": "Somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) was measured in extracts of gastric antrum, colon, pancreas, and central nervous system, as well as in unextracted portal and inferior vena caval serum from fed, 15-h-fasted, and 72-h-fasted rats. No differences were found in SLI in the central nervous system of the three groups. However, striking variations were found in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas; the antrum, colon, and pancreas of 15-h-fasted rats contained the least SLI, the content being significantly elevated in these three areas after feeding and after a 72-h fast. Portal serum levels were highest after feeding but lowest in 72-h-fasted rats, in spite of high intestinal and pancreatic SLI content in both. These tissue and serum differences suggest a physiologic role for SLI in nutrient homeostasis not only at tissue level, but also putatively as a hormone in the portal system.", "contents": "Tissue and serum somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in fed, 15-h-fasted, and 72-h-fasted rats. Somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) was measured in extracts of gastric antrum, colon, pancreas, and central nervous system, as well as in unextracted portal and inferior vena caval serum from fed, 15-h-fasted, and 72-h-fasted rats. No differences were found in SLI in the central nervous system of the three groups. However, striking variations were found in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas; the antrum, colon, and pancreas of 15-h-fasted rats contained the least SLI, the content being significantly elevated in these three areas after feeding and after a 72-h fast. Portal serum levels were highest after feeding but lowest in 72-h-fasted rats, in spite of high intestinal and pancreatic SLI content in both. These tissue and serum differences suggest a physiologic role for SLI in nutrient homeostasis not only at tissue level, but also putatively as a hormone in the portal system.", "PMID": 446903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7803", "title": "Long-term continuous intravenous insulin therapy with a portable insulin dosage-regulating apparatus.", "content": "A portable insulin dosage-regulating apparatus (PIDRA) was used with five volunteer diabetic subjects for periods ranging from 1 wk to more than 3 months to explore the possibilities of achieving near normoglycemic control over long time periods with such an apparatus. PIDRA consists of a matchbox size pump with insulin reservoir and a pocket size electronic control box. It can infuse a preprogrammed basal rate of insulin plus externally manipulated supplementary doses in rectangular profiles. The quality of blood glucose control was monitored with the Miles Biostator and through self-testing by the patient in the outpatient phases. Under inpatient conditions, the relatively simple PIDRA insulin administration profile was almost as effective in achieving normoglycemia as the Biostator, and good control could be maintained over long periods of time. The apparatus allows considerably greater ease in variation of insulin dosage with less risk of hypoglycemic epidoses as compared with conventional subcutaneous injections. Several technical problems remain to be solved, but it is concluded that PIDRA represents a viable alternative as a means of achieving tight control, at least as a step toward the goal of an implanted glucose-contingent insulin infusion system.", "contents": "Long-term continuous intravenous insulin therapy with a portable insulin dosage-regulating apparatus. A portable insulin dosage-regulating apparatus (PIDRA) was used with five volunteer diabetic subjects for periods ranging from 1 wk to more than 3 months to explore the possibilities of achieving near normoglycemic control over long time periods with such an apparatus. PIDRA consists of a matchbox size pump with insulin reservoir and a pocket size electronic control box. It can infuse a preprogrammed basal rate of insulin plus externally manipulated supplementary doses in rectangular profiles. The quality of blood glucose control was monitored with the Miles Biostator and through self-testing by the patient in the outpatient phases. Under inpatient conditions, the relatively simple PIDRA insulin administration profile was almost as effective in achieving normoglycemia as the Biostator, and good control could be maintained over long periods of time. The apparatus allows considerably greater ease in variation of insulin dosage with less risk of hypoglycemic epidoses as compared with conventional subcutaneous injections. Several technical problems remain to be solved, but it is concluded that PIDRA represents a viable alternative as a means of achieving tight control, at least as a step toward the goal of an implanted glucose-contingent insulin infusion system.", "PMID": 446904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7804", "title": "Glucose-insulin response to oral glucose in a healthy obese population.", "content": "The characteristics of the glucose and insulin responses during the glucose tolerance test (GTT) in obese people as a group have not been established. We analyzed glucose and insulin levels during GTT in 160 healthy obese patients who averaged 42% over ideal body weight. Statistical upper limit of normal for 2-h glucose was 260 mg/dl in women and 206 mg/dl in men. Although there was a significant correlation between insulin and glucose levels in both sexes and between insulin and degree of obesity in women, r values were relatively low (r less than 0.4 for all). High insulin levels and delayed peak insulin were present in the majority of patients with normal GTT and absent in many of the most obese patients. Results indicate that upper limits of normal glucose for GTT in the obese are much higher than currently accepted criteria.", "contents": "Glucose-insulin response to oral glucose in a healthy obese population. The characteristics of the glucose and insulin responses during the glucose tolerance test (GTT) in obese people as a group have not been established. We analyzed glucose and insulin levels during GTT in 160 healthy obese patients who averaged 42% over ideal body weight. Statistical upper limit of normal for 2-h glucose was 260 mg/dl in women and 206 mg/dl in men. Although there was a significant correlation between insulin and glucose levels in both sexes and between insulin and degree of obesity in women, r values were relatively low (r less than 0.4 for all). High insulin levels and delayed peak insulin were present in the majority of patients with normal GTT and absent in many of the most obese patients. Results indicate that upper limits of normal glucose for GTT in the obese are much higher than currently accepted criteria.", "PMID": 446905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7805", "title": "Maintenance of basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations in maturity-onset diabetes.", "content": "Normal and mildly diabetic subjects each have their own \"set\" of basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. Diabetic patients have raised basal plasma glucose, with low-normal basal plasma C-peptide concentrations. Restoring normal glucose levels in mild diabetes by an insulin infusion further reduces the C-peptide concentration, but both the plasma glucose and the C-peptide return to their \"set\" level when the insulin is withdrawn. These results accord with the action of beta cells and liver in a negative feedback loop that maintains basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations.", "contents": "Maintenance of basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations in maturity-onset diabetes. Normal and mildly diabetic subjects each have their own \"set\" of basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. Diabetic patients have raised basal plasma glucose, with low-normal basal plasma C-peptide concentrations. Restoring normal glucose levels in mild diabetes by an insulin infusion further reduces the C-peptide concentration, but both the plasma glucose and the C-peptide return to their \"set\" level when the insulin is withdrawn. These results accord with the action of beta cells and liver in a negative feedback loop that maintains basal plasma glucose and insulin concentrations.", "PMID": 446907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7806", "title": "Is juvenile diabetes determined by a single gene closely linked to HLA?", "content": "The transmission behavior of insulin-dependent juvenile diabetes mellitus (JDM) has been studied with respect to its frequency in the relatives of JDM probands and its possible linkage to the HLA complex. Mathematical analysis shows that under a single locus hypothesis a very restricted range of incidence rates is possible in the full siblings of probands once the concordance rate in monozygotic (MZ) twins is specified. Specifically, for a given population prevalence of the disease, high concordance rates in MZ twins require high incidence rates in siblings, and low rates require low incidence rates, if a single locus model is th be valid. Moreover, if these rates do conform to a single locus model, then they give additional information about possible linkage between the purported JDM susceptibility gene and the HLA complex. By using observations on the identity by descent scores at the HLA locus of sibling pairs, both of whom are affected with JDM, it is shown that tight linkage of a disease susceptibility locus is possible only when the MZ twin and sibling incidence rates are low, whereas high rates support loose linkage. If the single locus model is rejected, then an alternative hypothesis, involving epistasis between a JDM susceptibility locus and genes in (or close to) the HLA complex can be suggested as a mechanism whereby JDM would appear to be linked to HLA within families while maintaining an association with HLA at the population level.", "contents": "Is juvenile diabetes determined by a single gene closely linked to HLA? The transmission behavior of insulin-dependent juvenile diabetes mellitus (JDM) has been studied with respect to its frequency in the relatives of JDM probands and its possible linkage to the HLA complex. Mathematical analysis shows that under a single locus hypothesis a very restricted range of incidence rates is possible in the full siblings of probands once the concordance rate in monozygotic (MZ) twins is specified. Specifically, for a given population prevalence of the disease, high concordance rates in MZ twins require high incidence rates in siblings, and low rates require low incidence rates, if a single locus model is th be valid. Moreover, if these rates do conform to a single locus model, then they give additional information about possible linkage between the purported JDM susceptibility gene and the HLA complex. By using observations on the identity by descent scores at the HLA locus of sibling pairs, both of whom are affected with JDM, it is shown that tight linkage of a disease susceptibility locus is possible only when the MZ twin and sibling incidence rates are low, whereas high rates support loose linkage. If the single locus model is rejected, then an alternative hypothesis, involving epistasis between a JDM susceptibility locus and genes in (or close to) the HLA complex can be suggested as a mechanism whereby JDM would appear to be linked to HLA within families while maintaining an association with HLA at the population level.", "PMID": 446910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7807", "title": "Blood glucose regulates the effects of insulin and counterregulatory hormones on glucose production in vivo.", "content": "Continuous, low dose, insulin infusion in conscious dogs produced moderate hypoglycemia but only a transient fall in glucose production that rose towards preinfusion levels 20 to 30 min before any detectable increase in plasma counterregulatory hormones. Addition of epinephrine or glucagon to the insulin infusion prevented the fall in glucose production throughout the experiment but only partially diminished the hypoglycemic response. When hypoglycemia was prevented by a variable glucose infusion, neither epinephrine nor glucagon was able to counteract the suppressive effect of insulin on glucose output. These findings suggest that a fall in blood glucose per se may reverse insulin-induced inhibition of glucose production independent of a rise in counterregulatory hormones and that the insulin antagonist effect of counter-regulatory hormones is modulated, at least in part, by blood glucose concentration.", "contents": "Blood glucose regulates the effects of insulin and counterregulatory hormones on glucose production in vivo. Continuous, low dose, insulin infusion in conscious dogs produced moderate hypoglycemia but only a transient fall in glucose production that rose towards preinfusion levels 20 to 30 min before any detectable increase in plasma counterregulatory hormones. Addition of epinephrine or glucagon to the insulin infusion prevented the fall in glucose production throughout the experiment but only partially diminished the hypoglycemic response. When hypoglycemia was prevented by a variable glucose infusion, neither epinephrine nor glucagon was able to counteract the suppressive effect of insulin on glucose output. These findings suggest that a fall in blood glucose per se may reverse insulin-induced inhibition of glucose production independent of a rise in counterregulatory hormones and that the insulin antagonist effect of counter-regulatory hormones is modulated, at least in part, by blood glucose concentration.", "PMID": 446911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7808", "title": "Effect of continuous low-dose insulin treatment on subsequent incidence of diabetes in genetically prediabetic Chinese hamsters.", "content": "In an attempt to prevent the onset of diabetes, young, genetically prediabetic (but not yet hyperglycemic) Chinese hamsters were treated continuously with insulin via minipump for 4 wk beginning 1 wk before the predicted age of onset of glucosuria (age 7 wk). Continuous insulin infusion which increased the plasma insulin levels by 70%, did not cause hypoglycemia, nor did it reduce the incidence or severity of diabetic symptoms over the ensuing year of observation. In fact, early treatment with exogenous insulin tended to cause increased hyperglycemia and glucosuria. No plasma anti-insulin antibodies were detected 3 and 9 months after stopping insulin treatment.", "contents": "Effect of continuous low-dose insulin treatment on subsequent incidence of diabetes in genetically prediabetic Chinese hamsters. In an attempt to prevent the onset of diabetes, young, genetically prediabetic (but not yet hyperglycemic) Chinese hamsters were treated continuously with insulin via minipump for 4 wk beginning 1 wk before the predicted age of onset of glucosuria (age 7 wk). Continuous insulin infusion which increased the plasma insulin levels by 70%, did not cause hypoglycemia, nor did it reduce the incidence or severity of diabetic symptoms over the ensuing year of observation. In fact, early treatment with exogenous insulin tended to cause increased hyperglycemia and glucosuria. No plasma anti-insulin antibodies were detected 3 and 9 months after stopping insulin treatment.", "PMID": 446913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7809", "title": "Variation in thickness of the capillary basement membrane in single muscles of diabetic subjects.", "content": "Thickness of skeletal muscle's capillary basement membrane was measured in gastrocnemius and quadriceps femoris muscles of diabetic subjects. At least two different sites of each muscle studied were biopsied. Comparison of these biopsy samples revealed a marked and significant variation in thickness of the capillary basement membrane at different sites within the same muscle. In one subject so studied, this variation was found regardless of the method of fixation or the method of measurement of capillary basement membrane thickness used. Variation was present in diabetics suffering from long-term complications of the disease as well as in diabetics free of such complications. A reevaluation of the biologic significance of basement membrane thickness measurements, as presently applied, is indicated in the light of the variability of base-line values.", "contents": "Variation in thickness of the capillary basement membrane in single muscles of diabetic subjects. Thickness of skeletal muscle's capillary basement membrane was measured in gastrocnemius and quadriceps femoris muscles of diabetic subjects. At least two different sites of each muscle studied were biopsied. Comparison of these biopsy samples revealed a marked and significant variation in thickness of the capillary basement membrane at different sites within the same muscle. In one subject so studied, this variation was found regardless of the method of fixation or the method of measurement of capillary basement membrane thickness used. Variation was present in diabetics suffering from long-term complications of the disease as well as in diabetics free of such complications. A reevaluation of the biologic significance of basement membrane thickness measurements, as presently applied, is indicated in the light of the variability of base-line values.", "PMID": 446914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7810", "title": "HLA-D--related (DRw) antigens in juvenile diabetes mellitus.", "content": "We studied the distribution of HLA-D--related (DRw) antigens in 40 patients with juvenile diabetes mellitus (JDM) and 79 matched controls. We found that DRw2 was significantly decreased in the JDM group, suggesting a protective effect of the antigen and that the decrease observed in B7 was secondary. HLA-DRw3 and HLA-DRw4 were increased in the diabetic group, and, as with B8/B15, these two antigen predisposed to the disease additively. The susceptibility for JDM was found to be more strongly related to HLA-DRw3 that to B8. On the other hand, B15 rather than DRw4 showed the stronger association with JDM. Moreover, we found that this second diabetogenic gene is associated primarily with B15 and only secondarily with Cw3, which is in linkage disequilibrium with B15. This study further emphasizes the immunogenetic heterogeneity of JDM.", "contents": "HLA-D--related (DRw) antigens in juvenile diabetes mellitus. We studied the distribution of HLA-D--related (DRw) antigens in 40 patients with juvenile diabetes mellitus (JDM) and 79 matched controls. We found that DRw2 was significantly decreased in the JDM group, suggesting a protective effect of the antigen and that the decrease observed in B7 was secondary. HLA-DRw3 and HLA-DRw4 were increased in the diabetic group, and, as with B8/B15, these two antigen predisposed to the disease additively. The susceptibility for JDM was found to be more strongly related to HLA-DRw3 that to B8. On the other hand, B15 rather than DRw4 showed the stronger association with JDM. Moreover, we found that this second diabetogenic gene is associated primarily with B15 and only secondarily with Cw3, which is in linkage disequilibrium with B15. This study further emphasizes the immunogenetic heterogeneity of JDM.", "PMID": 446915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7811", "title": "Somatostatin release from isolated perfused rat pancreas. Possible role of endogenous somatostatin on insulin release.", "content": "In order to elucidate the role of endogenous somatostatin in the control of insulin and glucagon secretion, glucagon- or insulin-induced somatostatin release from the isolated perfused rat pancreas was studied. Immunoreactive somatostatin was persistently released for 60 min in response to perfusion by 5.5 mM glucose at concentrations ranging between 10 and 15 pg/ml. The addition of glucagon (10(-8), 10(-7), and 10(-6) M) caused a dose-related increase of somatostatin release. In contrast, insulin release, especially its first phase, was suppressed when concentrations of glucagon were increased. The addition of insulin (10(-7) M and 10(-6) M) had no significant effect on somatostatin and glucagon release. These results raise the possibility that endogenous somatostatin and glucagon together regulate insulin secretion, suggesting a close interrelationship between insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin secretion within the islet.", "contents": "Somatostatin release from isolated perfused rat pancreas. Possible role of endogenous somatostatin on insulin release. In order to elucidate the role of endogenous somatostatin in the control of insulin and glucagon secretion, glucagon- or insulin-induced somatostatin release from the isolated perfused rat pancreas was studied. Immunoreactive somatostatin was persistently released for 60 min in response to perfusion by 5.5 mM glucose at concentrations ranging between 10 and 15 pg/ml. The addition of glucagon (10(-8), 10(-7), and 10(-6) M) caused a dose-related increase of somatostatin release. In contrast, insulin release, especially its first phase, was suppressed when concentrations of glucagon were increased. The addition of insulin (10(-7) M and 10(-6) M) had no significant effect on somatostatin and glucagon release. These results raise the possibility that endogenous somatostatin and glucagon together regulate insulin secretion, suggesting a close interrelationship between insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin secretion within the islet.", "PMID": 446917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7812", "title": "Ethnic variability in the plasma insulin response to oral glucose in Polynesian and Micronesian subjects.", "content": "The pattern of insulin response to oral glucose over a wide range of glucose tolerance has been studied in two separate ethnic groups--Polynesians and Micronesians. Fasting insulin concentrations were relatively unchanged over the entire range of glucose tolerance in both populations, irrespective of whether comparable lean or obese samples of both groups were studied. The patterns of 2-h plasma insulins were similar over the whole range of glucose tolerance in Polynesians and Micronesians. However, in the comparisons of all subjects, or lean or obese groups of these populations, the plasma insulin concentrations of the Micronesians were both consistently and significantly higher. As the data analysis was arranged to take into account groups with identical 2-h plasma glucose concentrations and comparable degrees of obesity, the differences cannot be attributed to differences in the glucose levels or in obesity. In the presence of similar fasting insulin concentrations, these findings imply an ethnic variability in the pancreatic beta-cell response to oral glucose.", "contents": "Ethnic variability in the plasma insulin response to oral glucose in Polynesian and Micronesian subjects. The pattern of insulin response to oral glucose over a wide range of glucose tolerance has been studied in two separate ethnic groups--Polynesians and Micronesians. Fasting insulin concentrations were relatively unchanged over the entire range of glucose tolerance in both populations, irrespective of whether comparable lean or obese samples of both groups were studied. The patterns of 2-h plasma insulins were similar over the whole range of glucose tolerance in Polynesians and Micronesians. However, in the comparisons of all subjects, or lean or obese groups of these populations, the plasma insulin concentrations of the Micronesians were both consistently and significantly higher. As the data analysis was arranged to take into account groups with identical 2-h plasma glucose concentrations and comparable degrees of obesity, the differences cannot be attributed to differences in the glucose levels or in obesity. In the presence of similar fasting insulin concentrations, these findings imply an ethnic variability in the pancreatic beta-cell response to oral glucose.", "PMID": 446919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7813", "title": "Control of blood glucose in experimental diabetes by means of a totally implantable insulin infusion device.", "content": "Near-normal glucose tolerance tests in diabetic dogs were obtained during basal rate insulin infusions in restrained animals by use of extracorporeal infusion pumps and in conscious, unrestrained animals by means of implanted infusion pumps. Even better regulation of blood glucose in diabetic animals was obtained by the addition of predetermined pulses of insulin at higher flow rates than the basal flow rate, accomplished by use of a transcutaneously activated valve mechanism attached to the implanted infusion pump. We conclude that near-normal blood glucose concentrations can be maintained throughout the day in the dog by these means and that similar approaches, using implantable infusion pumps, in man may lead to better long-term control of diabetes than is currently available.", "contents": "Control of blood glucose in experimental diabetes by means of a totally implantable insulin infusion device. Near-normal glucose tolerance tests in diabetic dogs were obtained during basal rate insulin infusions in restrained animals by use of extracorporeal infusion pumps and in conscious, unrestrained animals by means of implanted infusion pumps. Even better regulation of blood glucose in diabetic animals was obtained by the addition of predetermined pulses of insulin at higher flow rates than the basal flow rate, accomplished by use of a transcutaneously activated valve mechanism attached to the implanted infusion pump. We conclude that near-normal blood glucose concentrations can be maintained throughout the day in the dog by these means and that similar approaches, using implantable infusion pumps, in man may lead to better long-term control of diabetes than is currently available.", "PMID": 446920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7814", "title": "Thin muscle capillary basement membranes in myotonic dystrophy.", "content": "Muscle capillary basement membrane width (MCBMW) was measured in 18 myotonic dystrophy patients and compared with that in age- and sex-matched normal and diabetic subjects. The MCBMW in myotonic dystrophy patients (773 +/- 258 A) was significantly thinner than in normal subjects (925 +/- 181 A, P less than 0.05) or in diabetics (1224 +/- 614 A, P less than 0.01). An increase in MCBMW with advancing age was present in all groups but was greatest in the myotonic dystrophy groups (r = +0.59, P less than 0.01). There was no relation between MCBMW and either the degree of glucose intolerance or insulin hypersecretion in the myotonic dystrophy group, though none had fasting hyperglycemia. This is the first report of a condition associated with thinner-than-normal capillary basement membrane.", "contents": "Thin muscle capillary basement membranes in myotonic dystrophy. Muscle capillary basement membrane width (MCBMW) was measured in 18 myotonic dystrophy patients and compared with that in age- and sex-matched normal and diabetic subjects. The MCBMW in myotonic dystrophy patients (773 +/- 258 A) was significantly thinner than in normal subjects (925 +/- 181 A, P less than 0.05) or in diabetics (1224 +/- 614 A, P less than 0.01). An increase in MCBMW with advancing age was present in all groups but was greatest in the myotonic dystrophy groups (r = +0.59, P less than 0.01). There was no relation between MCBMW and either the degree of glucose intolerance or insulin hypersecretion in the myotonic dystrophy group, though none had fasting hyperglycemia. This is the first report of a condition associated with thinner-than-normal capillary basement membrane.", "PMID": 446922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7815", "title": "Epidemiologic survey of juvenile-onset diabetes in Montreal.", "content": "Active search of hospital records was used to survey insulin-dependent juvenile-onset diabetics younger than 17 years resident in General Montreal at the time of onset of symptoms during a seven-year period (1971-1977). A mean annual incidence of 8.8/100,000 was found with variation from year to year (5.8 to 10.3). Eighty percent were five years of age or more at time of diagnosis, and the increase with advancing age was similar to that seen in other studies including the somewhat earlier increase in incidence among females. Seasonal peaks were noted in some but not all years and were more marked in years of high incidence and among males. More cases occurred in areas of high socioeconomic level as measured by average family income. The estimated incidence among siblings of diabetics is 15 times the incidence in the general population. Ten percent of diabetics have a first degree relative who is insulin dependent.", "contents": "Epidemiologic survey of juvenile-onset diabetes in Montreal. Active search of hospital records was used to survey insulin-dependent juvenile-onset diabetics younger than 17 years resident in General Montreal at the time of onset of symptoms during a seven-year period (1971-1977). A mean annual incidence of 8.8/100,000 was found with variation from year to year (5.8 to 10.3). Eighty percent were five years of age or more at time of diagnosis, and the increase with advancing age was similar to that seen in other studies including the somewhat earlier increase in incidence among females. Seasonal peaks were noted in some but not all years and were more marked in years of high incidence and among males. More cases occurred in areas of high socioeconomic level as measured by average family income. The estimated incidence among siblings of diabetics is 15 times the incidence in the general population. Ten percent of diabetics have a first degree relative who is insulin dependent.", "PMID": 446923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7816", "title": "Hemoglobin AIc as an index of long-term blood glucose regulation in diabetic pregnancy.", "content": "To evaluate hemoglobin AIc (Hb AIc) as an indicator of prolonged glucose control in pregnant diabetics, four groups of subjects were studied--16 pregnant diabetic, 13 pregnant nondiabetic, 12 nonpregnant diabetic, and 18 healthy control subjects. Hb AIc was significantly lower in the pregnant diabetic than in the nonpregnant diabetic subjects, 7.8% +/- 1.6 vs, 9.9% +/- 1.9 (mean +/- SD). No difference was present in the nondiabetic groups (4.0% +/- 0.7 vs. 4.3% +/- 0.8, respectively). Hb AIc correlated significantly with the average glucose concentrations of the preceding 60 days in both diabetic groups, suggesting that the lower concentration of Hb AIC in pregnant as compared with nonpregnant diabetic patients was because of better control of blood glucose. This was also borne out by the average of fasting glucose levels being 6.1 +/- 1.7 mmol/L in the pregnant diabetic and 10.7 +/- 2.2 mmol/l in the nonpregnant diabetic subjects.", "contents": "Hemoglobin AIc as an index of long-term blood glucose regulation in diabetic pregnancy. To evaluate hemoglobin AIc (Hb AIc) as an indicator of prolonged glucose control in pregnant diabetics, four groups of subjects were studied--16 pregnant diabetic, 13 pregnant nondiabetic, 12 nonpregnant diabetic, and 18 healthy control subjects. Hb AIc was significantly lower in the pregnant diabetic than in the nonpregnant diabetic subjects, 7.8% +/- 1.6 vs, 9.9% +/- 1.9 (mean +/- SD). No difference was present in the nondiabetic groups (4.0% +/- 0.7 vs. 4.3% +/- 0.8, respectively). Hb AIc correlated significantly with the average glucose concentrations of the preceding 60 days in both diabetic groups, suggesting that the lower concentration of Hb AIC in pregnant as compared with nonpregnant diabetic patients was because of better control of blood glucose. This was also borne out by the average of fasting glucose levels being 6.1 +/- 1.7 mmol/L in the pregnant diabetic and 10.7 +/- 2.2 mmol/l in the nonpregnant diabetic subjects.", "PMID": 446924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7817", "title": "High plasma norepinephrine concentrations at birth in infants of diabetic mothers.", "content": "Analysis of plasma norepinephrine (NE) concentrations in umbilical artery and vein from infants of diabetic and nondiabetic mothers revealed high plasma NE values in those of diabetic mothers. While birth weight and arterial plasma NE did not correlate in infants of nondiabetic mothers (r = 0.07, NS), birth weight and plasma NE were related inversely in infants of diabetic mothers (r = -0.73, P less than 0.05).", "contents": "High plasma norepinephrine concentrations at birth in infants of diabetic mothers. Analysis of plasma norepinephrine (NE) concentrations in umbilical artery and vein from infants of diabetic and nondiabetic mothers revealed high plasma NE values in those of diabetic mothers. While birth weight and arterial plasma NE did not correlate in infants of nondiabetic mothers (r = 0.07, NS), birth weight and plasma NE were related inversely in infants of diabetic mothers (r = -0.73, P less than 0.05).", "PMID": 446925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7818", "title": "Glucagon-like polypeptides in canine brain.", "content": "Glucagon-like material has been detected by radioimmunoassay in several areas of the canine brain. High concentrations of glucagon-like immunoreactivity (GLI), measured with antibodies directed against the N-terminal region of glucagon, have been found in the hypothalamus, amygdala, and mesencephalon, but a high concentration of immunoreactive glucagon (IRG), measured with antibodies directed against the C-terminal region of glucagon, has been found only in the hypothalamus. The predominant molecular forms of GLI isolated from brain extracts by affinity chromatography are the same as those isolated from gut extracts. The predominant form of IRG in brain extracts is of the same (approximate) molecular weight as pancreatic glucagon.", "contents": "Glucagon-like polypeptides in canine brain. Glucagon-like material has been detected by radioimmunoassay in several areas of the canine brain. High concentrations of glucagon-like immunoreactivity (GLI), measured with antibodies directed against the N-terminal region of glucagon, have been found in the hypothalamus, amygdala, and mesencephalon, but a high concentration of immunoreactive glucagon (IRG), measured with antibodies directed against the C-terminal region of glucagon, has been found only in the hypothalamus. The predominant molecular forms of GLI isolated from brain extracts by affinity chromatography are the same as those isolated from gut extracts. The predominant form of IRG in brain extracts is of the same (approximate) molecular weight as pancreatic glucagon.", "PMID": 446926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7819", "title": "Capillary basal laminar thichness in diabetic human myocardium.", "content": "Biopsied myocardial tissue was obtained from 24 patients electing coronary arterial bypass surgery who were divided into three groups: chemical diabetics (CD) with normal fasting blood sugar levels and incidentally encountered elevated glucose levels after sugar loading; overt diabetics (OD) requiring insulin treatment; and euglycemic, nondiabetic patients (ND) serving as a control group. Specimens from the left anterior apical segment of the heart were processed for ultrastructural examination, with special emphasis on determining capillary basal laminar thickness with the aid of morphometric techniques. Results of this study indicate that (1) a statistically significant increase in basal laminar thickness is evident in myocardial tissue of OD patients; (2) incipient alterations in laminar width are demonstrable in the CD group; (3) the predominant morphologic abnormalities, which we have examined in the parenchymal tissue of the biopsied hearts, namely myocardial hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis, are present to a comparable degree in all three groups of patients; and (4) the average thickness of basal laminae around myocardial capillaries tends to be narrower compared with measurements reported in other tissue compartments.", "contents": "Capillary basal laminar thichness in diabetic human myocardium. Biopsied myocardial tissue was obtained from 24 patients electing coronary arterial bypass surgery who were divided into three groups: chemical diabetics (CD) with normal fasting blood sugar levels and incidentally encountered elevated glucose levels after sugar loading; overt diabetics (OD) requiring insulin treatment; and euglycemic, nondiabetic patients (ND) serving as a control group. Specimens from the left anterior apical segment of the heart were processed for ultrastructural examination, with special emphasis on determining capillary basal laminar thickness with the aid of morphometric techniques. Results of this study indicate that (1) a statistically significant increase in basal laminar thickness is evident in myocardial tissue of OD patients; (2) incipient alterations in laminar width are demonstrable in the CD group; (3) the predominant morphologic abnormalities, which we have examined in the parenchymal tissue of the biopsied hearts, namely myocardial hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis, are present to a comparable degree in all three groups of patients; and (4) the average thickness of basal laminae around myocardial capillaries tends to be narrower compared with measurements reported in other tissue compartments.", "PMID": 446928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7820", "title": "Effect of a high carbohydrate diet on insulin binding to adipocytes and on insulin action in vivo in man.", "content": "We studied the effects of short-term (5 days) and long-term (2 wk) high carbohydrate (75%) feedings on insulin binding to isolated adipocytes and insulin sensitivity in vivo in normal subjects. Ingestion of the high carbohydrate diet led to daylong hyperinsulinemia in both short- and long-term groups. Insulin binding to isolated adipocytes was decreased in both groups; in the short-term groups this decrease in insulin binding was caused by a decrease in the receptor affinity, whereas in the long-term group it was caused by a decrease in receptor number. On the other hand, despite this decrease in insulin binding, total in vivo insulin sensitivity was markedly improved in both groups. In conclusion, (1) the short-term adaptive response of the insulin receptor is a decrease in binding affinity whereas the long-term response is a decrease in receptor number, (2) sustained and chronic hyperinsulinemia can lead to a decrease in the number of cellular insulin receptors, (3) high carbohydrate diets lead to a general increase in insulin's ability to promote glucose removal from plasma, and (4) the paradox of enhanced insulin sensitivity in the face of decreased insulin binding can be explained if high carbohydrate diets also lead to an increase in the activity of steps in glucose metabolism distal to the insulin receptor.", "contents": "Effect of a high carbohydrate diet on insulin binding to adipocytes and on insulin action in vivo in man. We studied the effects of short-term (5 days) and long-term (2 wk) high carbohydrate (75%) feedings on insulin binding to isolated adipocytes and insulin sensitivity in vivo in normal subjects. Ingestion of the high carbohydrate diet led to daylong hyperinsulinemia in both short- and long-term groups. Insulin binding to isolated adipocytes was decreased in both groups; in the short-term groups this decrease in insulin binding was caused by a decrease in the receptor affinity, whereas in the long-term group it was caused by a decrease in receptor number. On the other hand, despite this decrease in insulin binding, total in vivo insulin sensitivity was markedly improved in both groups. In conclusion, (1) the short-term adaptive response of the insulin receptor is a decrease in binding affinity whereas the long-term response is a decrease in receptor number, (2) sustained and chronic hyperinsulinemia can lead to a decrease in the number of cellular insulin receptors, (3) high carbohydrate diets lead to a general increase in insulin's ability to promote glucose removal from plasma, and (4) the paradox of enhanced insulin sensitivity in the face of decreased insulin binding can be explained if high carbohydrate diets also lead to an increase in the activity of steps in glucose metabolism distal to the insulin receptor.", "PMID": 446930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7821", "title": "Insulin binding and degradation by muscles from streptozotocin-diabetic rats.", "content": "Insulin degradtion by muscle was examined in normal, streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, and diabetic rats treated with insulin. Insulin degradation by the 100,000 X g supernatant fractions was identical in all three groups, but insulin metabolism by the intact epitrochlaris muscle was significantly increased in diabetic animals. Insulin treatment of the diabetic animals partially restored the activity toward normal. Specific binding of 125l-insulin to the intact muscles was also increased in the diabetic animals. Streptozotocin diabetes, therefore, increased the binding and degradation of insulin by intact muscle but did not alter the insulin degradation by the total soluble intracellular degradative activity.", "contents": "Insulin binding and degradation by muscles from streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Insulin degradtion by muscle was examined in normal, streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, and diabetic rats treated with insulin. Insulin degradation by the 100,000 X g supernatant fractions was identical in all three groups, but insulin metabolism by the intact epitrochlaris muscle was significantly increased in diabetic animals. Insulin treatment of the diabetic animals partially restored the activity toward normal. Specific binding of 125l-insulin to the intact muscles was also increased in the diabetic animals. Streptozotocin diabetes, therefore, increased the binding and degradation of insulin by intact muscle but did not alter the insulin degradation by the total soluble intracellular degradative activity.", "PMID": 446932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7822", "title": "Metabolic control in diabetic patients. Effect of insulin-secretory reserve (measured by plasma C-peptide levels) and circulating insulin antibodies.", "content": "We measured circulating hemoglobin A1 (HbA1) and fasting plasma C-peptide concentrations in 100 diabetic patients. Pancreatic insulin reserve showed a negative correlation with HbA1 concentrations in nonobese, insulin-treated patients but not in obese patients, whether they were treated with insulin, oral agent, or diet alone. Patients with fasting C-peptide concentrations above 0.1 pmol/ml had significantly better metabolic control than did those with lower values. Anti-insulin antibodies were measured in 37 patients. There was no correlation between metabolic control and the affinity constants or binding capacities of these antibodies.", "contents": "Metabolic control in diabetic patients. Effect of insulin-secretory reserve (measured by plasma C-peptide levels) and circulating insulin antibodies. We measured circulating hemoglobin A1 (HbA1) and fasting plasma C-peptide concentrations in 100 diabetic patients. Pancreatic insulin reserve showed a negative correlation with HbA1 concentrations in nonobese, insulin-treated patients but not in obese patients, whether they were treated with insulin, oral agent, or diet alone. Patients with fasting C-peptide concentrations above 0.1 pmol/ml had significantly better metabolic control than did those with lower values. Anti-insulin antibodies were measured in 37 patients. There was no correlation between metabolic control and the affinity constants or binding capacities of these antibodies.", "PMID": 446933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7823", "title": "Neural release of glucagon is inhibited by hyperglycemia and enhanced by phentolamine.", "content": "Using an innervated, cross-perfused, canine pancreas-stomach-duodenum preparation, direct neural effects on the immunoreactive glucagon secretion rate (GSR) were separated from blood-borne influences. Both splanchnic nerves were cut above the diaphragm and stimulated simultaneously for three separate 10-min-long periods, twice before and once during a pancreatic arterial phentolamine infusion. The extent of the decreases in GSR that occurred after nerve section was inversely correlated with the arterial plasma glucose concentration at the time of section. Splanchnic nerve stimulation caused a significant increase in GSR. Similar stimulation during a pancreatic arterial phentolamine infusion caused a significantly greater increase. Rapid infusion of glucose near the end of the experiment caused a significant decrease in GSR, demonstrating the responsiveness of the preparation. These data were collected in conjunction with a study of neural influences on insulin secretion rates. It can be concluded that the central nervous system can alter the secretion rate of glucagon by direct neural means. Alpha-adrenergic blockade, in the presence of splanchnic nerve stimulation, enhances GSR.", "contents": "Neural release of glucagon is inhibited by hyperglycemia and enhanced by phentolamine. Using an innervated, cross-perfused, canine pancreas-stomach-duodenum preparation, direct neural effects on the immunoreactive glucagon secretion rate (GSR) were separated from blood-borne influences. Both splanchnic nerves were cut above the diaphragm and stimulated simultaneously for three separate 10-min-long periods, twice before and once during a pancreatic arterial phentolamine infusion. The extent of the decreases in GSR that occurred after nerve section was inversely correlated with the arterial plasma glucose concentration at the time of section. Splanchnic nerve stimulation caused a significant increase in GSR. Similar stimulation during a pancreatic arterial phentolamine infusion caused a significantly greater increase. Rapid infusion of glucose near the end of the experiment caused a significant decrease in GSR, demonstrating the responsiveness of the preparation. These data were collected in conjunction with a study of neural influences on insulin secretion rates. It can be concluded that the central nervous system can alter the secretion rate of glucagon by direct neural means. Alpha-adrenergic blockade, in the presence of splanchnic nerve stimulation, enhances GSR.", "PMID": 446934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7824", "title": "Successively transplanted canine transmissible sarcoma.", "content": "Canine transmissible sarcoma has been maintained since 1967 as an allogeneic tumor cell line. The tumor originated from a naturally occurring venereal sarcoma in a 7-year-old female dog, Hokkaido-ken. The animals used for the serial transfer from 1st to 50th passages were 1- to 8-month-old puppies. Histological features and karyological characteristics of the tumor were not modified by the passive transfer. In most of the dogs, the palpable growths in the subcutaneous tissues were present at approximately the same time. These findings suggest that the sarcoma is an only established tumor cell line in dogs.", "contents": "Successively transplanted canine transmissible sarcoma. Canine transmissible sarcoma has been maintained since 1967 as an allogeneic tumor cell line. The tumor originated from a naturally occurring venereal sarcoma in a 7-year-old female dog, Hokkaido-ken. The animals used for the serial transfer from 1st to 50th passages were 1- to 8-month-old puppies. Histological features and karyological characteristics of the tumor were not modified by the passive transfer. In most of the dogs, the palpable growths in the subcutaneous tissues were present at approximately the same time. These findings suggest that the sarcoma is an only established tumor cell line in dogs.", "PMID": 446972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7825", "title": "Electrophoretic variant of fetal intestinal alkaline phosphatase in a patient with cirrhotic liver.", "content": "Alkaline phosphatases, which had a unique electrophoretic mobility on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, were found in hepatic tissue of a patient with liver cirrhosis. Enzymic and immunological properties of the enzymes examined on electropherogram were similar to those of a fetal intestinal-type alkaline phosphatase in hepatoma with respect to sensitivity to amino acids, heat stability, sensitivity to sodium dodecyl sulfate, and reactivity to anti-intestinal alkaline phosphatase antiserum. The enzymes seem to be a variant of a fetal intestinal alkaline phosphatase. The significance of occurrence of the enzymes in cirrhotic liver is discussed.", "contents": "Electrophoretic variant of fetal intestinal alkaline phosphatase in a patient with cirrhotic liver. Alkaline phosphatases, which had a unique electrophoretic mobility on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, were found in hepatic tissue of a patient with liver cirrhosis. Enzymic and immunological properties of the enzymes examined on electropherogram were similar to those of a fetal intestinal-type alkaline phosphatase in hepatoma with respect to sensitivity to amino acids, heat stability, sensitivity to sodium dodecyl sulfate, and reactivity to anti-intestinal alkaline phosphatase antiserum. The enzymes seem to be a variant of a fetal intestinal alkaline phosphatase. The significance of occurrence of the enzymes in cirrhotic liver is discussed.", "PMID": 446973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7826", "title": "An attempt for improving plating efficiency of human diploid fibroblasts.", "content": "An attempt was made to enhance the plating efficiency of normal human diploid skin fibroblasts by testing various culture media. Eagle's minimum essential medium (MEM), Dulbecco's MEM, William's medium E, DM-160, McCoy's 5a, RPMI-1640, Ham's F12, MCDB 102, Waymouth's MB 752/1, and L-15 synthetic media were examined. L-15 was the best among them. Plating efficiency with L-15 supplemented with 20% calf serum ranged from 20 to 60%. Plating efficiency decreased in the order of Eagle's MEM, Dulbecco's MEM, DM-160, and Ham's F12. Waymouth's MB 752/1, MCDB 102 McCoy's 5a, RPMI-1640, and William's medium E were not favorable for high plating efficiency. Although L-15 gave the best plating efficiency and Waymouth's MB 752/1 the worst, the Waymouth medium supported better cell proliferation than L-15, when cell proliferation was compared in mass culture with these two media. It was concluded that L-15 was better suited for culture of small number of cells, and especially for work involving colony formation.", "contents": "An attempt for improving plating efficiency of human diploid fibroblasts. An attempt was made to enhance the plating efficiency of normal human diploid skin fibroblasts by testing various culture media. Eagle's minimum essential medium (MEM), Dulbecco's MEM, William's medium E, DM-160, McCoy's 5a, RPMI-1640, Ham's F12, MCDB 102, Waymouth's MB 752/1, and L-15 synthetic media were examined. L-15 was the best among them. Plating efficiency with L-15 supplemented with 20% calf serum ranged from 20 to 60%. Plating efficiency decreased in the order of Eagle's MEM, Dulbecco's MEM, DM-160, and Ham's F12. Waymouth's MB 752/1, MCDB 102 McCoy's 5a, RPMI-1640, and William's medium E were not favorable for high plating efficiency. Although L-15 gave the best plating efficiency and Waymouth's MB 752/1 the worst, the Waymouth medium supported better cell proliferation than L-15, when cell proliferation was compared in mass culture with these two media. It was concluded that L-15 was better suited for culture of small number of cells, and especially for work involving colony formation.", "PMID": 446974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7827", "title": "Tumors of Sprague-Dawley rats induced by long-term feeding of phenacetin.", "content": "Carcinogenicity of phenacetin was tested using Sprague-Dawley rats. Two groups of animals containing 50 males and 50 females per group were fed respectively with 2.5% and 1.25% phenacetin diet for 18 months and fed thereafter with basal diet for 6 months. Control animals containing 65 males and 65 females were fed with basal diet for 24 months. Animals surviving more than 24 months were regarded as effective animals and killed. Rats that died of tumor development within 24 months were also regarded effective animals. Every organ from the killed and dead animals was fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution and examined histopathologically. Effective number of rats was 27 males and 27 females in 2.5% phenacetin feeding group, and 22 males and 25 females in 1.25% phenacetin feeding group. In control group, 19 males and 25 females were effective. Neoplasms including spontaneous tumors were detected in 26 out of 27 males (96.3%) and 21 out of 27 females (77.8%) of 2.5% phenacetin feeding group, and in 20 out of 22 males (90.9%) and 19 out of 25 females (76.0%) of 1.25% phenacetin feeding group. In control group, 1 out of 19 males (5.3%) and 6 out of 25 females (24.0%) showed spontaneous tumor development. Histopathologically, carcinomas of the nasal cavity, such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and transitional cell carcinoma, and the urinary passage, as renal cell carcinoma of the kidney pelvis, and transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder, were most conspicuous, suggesting the target organs of phenacetin carcinogenesis. Males showed higher tumor incidence compared to females. The higher the concentration of phenacetin given, higher incidence of tumors was observed.", "contents": "Tumors of Sprague-Dawley rats induced by long-term feeding of phenacetin. Carcinogenicity of phenacetin was tested using Sprague-Dawley rats. Two groups of animals containing 50 males and 50 females per group were fed respectively with 2.5% and 1.25% phenacetin diet for 18 months and fed thereafter with basal diet for 6 months. Control animals containing 65 males and 65 females were fed with basal diet for 24 months. Animals surviving more than 24 months were regarded as effective animals and killed. Rats that died of tumor development within 24 months were also regarded effective animals. Every organ from the killed and dead animals was fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution and examined histopathologically. Effective number of rats was 27 males and 27 females in 2.5% phenacetin feeding group, and 22 males and 25 females in 1.25% phenacetin feeding group. In control group, 19 males and 25 females were effective. Neoplasms including spontaneous tumors were detected in 26 out of 27 males (96.3%) and 21 out of 27 females (77.8%) of 2.5% phenacetin feeding group, and in 20 out of 22 males (90.9%) and 19 out of 25 females (76.0%) of 1.25% phenacetin feeding group. In control group, 1 out of 19 males (5.3%) and 6 out of 25 females (24.0%) showed spontaneous tumor development. Histopathologically, carcinomas of the nasal cavity, such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and transitional cell carcinoma, and the urinary passage, as renal cell carcinoma of the kidney pelvis, and transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder, were most conspicuous, suggesting the target organs of phenacetin carcinogenesis. Males showed higher tumor incidence compared to females. The higher the concentration of phenacetin given, higher incidence of tumors was observed.", "PMID": 446975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7828", "title": "Effect of Nocardia rubra cell-wall skeleton on the induction of lung cancer in ACI/N rats.", "content": "Administration of oil-attached Nocardia rubra cell-wall skeleton (N. rubra-CWS) was evaluated for the effect of the induction of lung cancers in ACI/N rats. Lung cancers were induced by 15 weekly intratracheal instillations of 3 mg benzo[a]-pyrene with 3 mg ferric oxide. After the 10th instillation of the carcinogen, rats received seven subcutaneous injections of 100 microgram of N. rubra-CWS at 2-week intervals. In the observation period of 56 weeks, the cumulative incidence of lung cancer was 71.4% in the control group and 48.0% in the N. rubra-CWS treated group. The latent period of tumor induction was prolonged in the group treated with N. rubra-CWS.", "contents": "Effect of Nocardia rubra cell-wall skeleton on the induction of lung cancer in ACI/N rats. Administration of oil-attached Nocardia rubra cell-wall skeleton (N. rubra-CWS) was evaluated for the effect of the induction of lung cancers in ACI/N rats. Lung cancers were induced by 15 weekly intratracheal instillations of 3 mg benzo[a]-pyrene with 3 mg ferric oxide. After the 10th instillation of the carcinogen, rats received seven subcutaneous injections of 100 microgram of N. rubra-CWS at 2-week intervals. In the observation period of 56 weeks, the cumulative incidence of lung cancer was 71.4% in the control group and 48.0% in the N. rubra-CWS treated group. The latent period of tumor induction was prolonged in the group treated with N. rubra-CWS.", "PMID": 446976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7829", "title": "Effect of trichloropropene oxide and benzoflavone on polycyclic hydrocarbon carcinogenesis in C3H/He and DBA/2 mice.", "content": "Effect of 1,1,1-trichloropropene 2,3-oxide and 7,8-benzoflavone on benzo[a]-pyrene and 3-methylcholanthrene carcinogenesis in the subcutaneous tissues of C3H/He and DBA/2 mice was examined. By a single application of the carcinogen, the incidence of fibrosarcoma was higher and the latency of tumorigenesis was shorter in C3H/He mice than in DBA/2 mice. Treatment with 1,1,1-trichloropropene 2,3-oxide increased the incidence of fibrosarcoma in DBA/2 mice, but decreased the rate in C3H/He mice, when benzo[a]pyrene was used as a carcinogen. On the other hand, in 3-methylcholanthrene carcinogenesis, no effect of the oxide on the tumor incidence was observed. By the simultaneous application of 7,8-benzoflavone with benzo[a]pyrene, the tumor incidence increased, but not so significantly in DBA/2 mice, compared to that treated with benzo[a]pyrene alone, and no appreciable effect was observed in C3H/He mice treated with benzo[a]pyrene, and in both strains of mice with 3-methylcholanthrene. The relationship between the activity of arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase and the change in polycyclic hydrocarbon carcinogenesis is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Effect of trichloropropene oxide and benzoflavone on polycyclic hydrocarbon carcinogenesis in C3H/He and DBA/2 mice. Effect of 1,1,1-trichloropropene 2,3-oxide and 7,8-benzoflavone on benzo[a]-pyrene and 3-methylcholanthrene carcinogenesis in the subcutaneous tissues of C3H/He and DBA/2 mice was examined. By a single application of the carcinogen, the incidence of fibrosarcoma was higher and the latency of tumorigenesis was shorter in C3H/He mice than in DBA/2 mice. Treatment with 1,1,1-trichloropropene 2,3-oxide increased the incidence of fibrosarcoma in DBA/2 mice, but decreased the rate in C3H/He mice, when benzo[a]pyrene was used as a carcinogen. On the other hand, in 3-methylcholanthrene carcinogenesis, no effect of the oxide on the tumor incidence was observed. By the simultaneous application of 7,8-benzoflavone with benzo[a]pyrene, the tumor incidence increased, but not so significantly in DBA/2 mice, compared to that treated with benzo[a]pyrene alone, and no appreciable effect was observed in C3H/He mice treated with benzo[a]pyrene, and in both strains of mice with 3-methylcholanthrene. The relationship between the activity of arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase and the change in polycyclic hydrocarbon carcinogenesis is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 446977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7830", "title": "Effect of radiotherapy on lymphocyte cytotoxicity against allogeneic lung cancer cells in patients with bronchogenic carcinoma.", "content": "Cytotoxicity of peripheral blood lymphocytes against allogeneic target cells of bronchogenic carcinoma was examined by a microcytotoxicity test before, during, and after radiotherapy in primary lung cancer patients. Before the treatment, cytotoxicity was depressed only slightly in patients in stage III and strikingly in those in stage IV, as compared to the values in patients at earlier stages of lung cancer such as stages I AND II. Local irradiation scarcely affected cytotoxicity at stages II and III, but augmented remarkably at stage IV. The number of peripheral blood lymphocytes decreased profoundly during and after radiotherapy in all cases of stages II, III, and IV. Although radiotherapy exhibited various effects on the cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes and the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes, only the cytotoxic activity at the end of radiotherapy correlated well with the reduction in tumor size.", "contents": "Effect of radiotherapy on lymphocyte cytotoxicity against allogeneic lung cancer cells in patients with bronchogenic carcinoma. Cytotoxicity of peripheral blood lymphocytes against allogeneic target cells of bronchogenic carcinoma was examined by a microcytotoxicity test before, during, and after radiotherapy in primary lung cancer patients. Before the treatment, cytotoxicity was depressed only slightly in patients in stage III and strikingly in those in stage IV, as compared to the values in patients at earlier stages of lung cancer such as stages I AND II. Local irradiation scarcely affected cytotoxicity at stages II and III, but augmented remarkably at stage IV. The number of peripheral blood lymphocytes decreased profoundly during and after radiotherapy in all cases of stages II, III, and IV. Although radiotherapy exhibited various effects on the cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes and the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes, only the cytotoxic activity at the end of radiotherapy correlated well with the reduction in tumor size.", "PMID": 446978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7831", "title": "Suppressive effect of prednisolone on cytotoxicity of lymphocytes from normal persons against T24 cells.", "content": "While lymphocytes from normal persons exhibited cytotoxicity against T24 cells, prednisolone at a concentration as low as 10(-7) M significantly inhibited the cytotoxic reactions and almost complete inhibition was observed at the concentration of 10(-4) M. The inhibitory effect was shown to be progressively decreased when prednisolone was added during the cytotoxicity assay of normal human lymphocytes. These findings suggest that the cytotoxicity of lymphocytes from normal persons can be suppressed by immunosuppressive effect of prednisolone and that the early phase in the cytotoxic reaction is considerably sensitive to prednisolone.", "contents": "Suppressive effect of prednisolone on cytotoxicity of lymphocytes from normal persons against T24 cells. While lymphocytes from normal persons exhibited cytotoxicity against T24 cells, prednisolone at a concentration as low as 10(-7) M significantly inhibited the cytotoxic reactions and almost complete inhibition was observed at the concentration of 10(-4) M. The inhibitory effect was shown to be progressively decreased when prednisolone was added during the cytotoxicity assay of normal human lymphocytes. These findings suggest that the cytotoxicity of lymphocytes from normal persons can be suppressed by immunosuppressive effect of prednisolone and that the early phase in the cytotoxic reaction is considerably sensitive to prednisolone.", "PMID": 446979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7832", "title": "Gastric emptying in normal subjects and patients with peptic ulcer: a study using the acetaminophen method.", "content": "Gastric emptying in patients with peptic ulcer and normal subjects was studied using the acetaminophen method. The subjects consisted of 15 normal subjects, 52 gastric ulcer patients and 65 duodenal ulcer patients, who were studied in active stage of the ulcer. As an indicator of gastric emptying, the plasma acetaminophen concentration was measured by dye method (diphenylhydrazyl), as mcg/ml, at 45 minutes after ingestion of a high calory pasty test meal (200 ml) with 1.5 gr of acetaminophen. In normal subjects, the plasma acetaminophen concentration was 9.4 +/- 3.6 mcg/ml. In gastric ulcer patients, the concentration was 7.4 +/- 3.2 mcg/ml, which showed significantly delayed gastric emptying (P less than 0.05). In duodenal ulcer patients, the concentration was 11.6+/-3.3 mcg/ml, which suggested significantly rapid gastric emptying (P less than 0.05). In consideration of gastric secretion, gastric ulcer cases with lower acid secretion have more delayed gastric emptying. In duodenal ulcer cases with hypersecretion, gastric emptying is more rapid than normo-and/or hyposecretory cases (P less than 0.005). The delayed gastric emptying may play a role in etiology of gastric ulcer. On the other hand, the rapid gastric emptying with gastric acid hypersecretion may be important in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer.", "contents": "Gastric emptying in normal subjects and patients with peptic ulcer: a study using the acetaminophen method. Gastric emptying in patients with peptic ulcer and normal subjects was studied using the acetaminophen method. The subjects consisted of 15 normal subjects, 52 gastric ulcer patients and 65 duodenal ulcer patients, who were studied in active stage of the ulcer. As an indicator of gastric emptying, the plasma acetaminophen concentration was measured by dye method (diphenylhydrazyl), as mcg/ml, at 45 minutes after ingestion of a high calory pasty test meal (200 ml) with 1.5 gr of acetaminophen. In normal subjects, the plasma acetaminophen concentration was 9.4 +/- 3.6 mcg/ml. In gastric ulcer patients, the concentration was 7.4 +/- 3.2 mcg/ml, which showed significantly delayed gastric emptying (P less than 0.05). In duodenal ulcer patients, the concentration was 11.6+/-3.3 mcg/ml, which suggested significantly rapid gastric emptying (P less than 0.05). In consideration of gastric secretion, gastric ulcer cases with lower acid secretion have more delayed gastric emptying. In duodenal ulcer cases with hypersecretion, gastric emptying is more rapid than normo-and/or hyposecretory cases (P less than 0.005). The delayed gastric emptying may play a role in etiology of gastric ulcer. On the other hand, the rapid gastric emptying with gastric acid hypersecretion may be important in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer.", "PMID": 446980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7833", "title": "A newly improved sliding tube for colonoscopy for keeping the sigmoid colon in a straight condition.", "content": "Although a sliding tube made of plastics is very effective to keep the sigmoid colon in a straight position, there is some difficulty in handling the colonoscope, being restricted by the length of the scope. For the purpose of covering the demerits of the conventional sliding tube, a new slit sliding tube which is made up of three parts was devised by us. After straightening the sigmoidal loop, the three parts of the apparatus are joined together. Then the slit sliding tube is inserted into the descending colon with safety and ease. By using the slit sliding tube, handling of the colonoscope is scarcely restricted and becomes easy. Moreover, the slit sliding tube can be used even for the shorter scopes, by which the distal parts of the colon can be more easily examined in comparison with conventional techniques.", "contents": "A newly improved sliding tube for colonoscopy for keeping the sigmoid colon in a straight condition. Although a sliding tube made of plastics is very effective to keep the sigmoid colon in a straight position, there is some difficulty in handling the colonoscope, being restricted by the length of the scope. For the purpose of covering the demerits of the conventional sliding tube, a new slit sliding tube which is made up of three parts was devised by us. After straightening the sigmoidal loop, the three parts of the apparatus are joined together. Then the slit sliding tube is inserted into the descending colon with safety and ease. By using the slit sliding tube, handling of the colonoscope is scarcely restricted and becomes easy. Moreover, the slit sliding tube can be used even for the shorter scopes, by which the distal parts of the colon can be more easily examined in comparison with conventional techniques.", "PMID": 446981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7834", "title": "Endoscopic diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia in asymptomatic (control) volunteers.", "content": "The F-P border and strain phenomenon of the gastric mucosa were investigated by the application of methylene blue dye spraying method in endoscopy to 105 asymptomatic control volunteers and the following results were obtained; 1. The pyloric metaplasia is observed in the fundic gland area from the twenties in age and becomes increasing in its number and move widely spreading from the lesser curvature to the anterior and/or posterior wall of the corpus with advancing age. 2. The intestinal metaplasia arises from the thirties in age. 3. The intestinal metaplasia is observed either in the pyloric gland area of following the pyloric metaplasis in the fundic gland area. 4. Histologically, the strain phenomenon of the gastric mucosa is closely related to the intestinal metaplasia. Then, methylene blue dye spraying method is reevaluated to be useful for a precise endoscopic diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia.", "contents": "Endoscopic diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia in asymptomatic (control) volunteers. The F-P border and strain phenomenon of the gastric mucosa were investigated by the application of methylene blue dye spraying method in endoscopy to 105 asymptomatic control volunteers and the following results were obtained; 1. The pyloric metaplasia is observed in the fundic gland area from the twenties in age and becomes increasing in its number and move widely spreading from the lesser curvature to the anterior and/or posterior wall of the corpus with advancing age. 2. The intestinal metaplasia arises from the thirties in age. 3. The intestinal metaplasia is observed either in the pyloric gland area of following the pyloric metaplasis in the fundic gland area. 4. Histologically, the strain phenomenon of the gastric mucosa is closely related to the intestinal metaplasia. Then, methylene blue dye spraying method is reevaluated to be useful for a precise endoscopic diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia.", "PMID": 446982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7835", "title": "Studies on drug-induced allergic intrahepatic cholestasis--hepatic cholestasis induced in dogs by lymphocyte culture supernatant.", "content": "When peripheral lymphocytes from patients with drug-induced allergic intrahepatic cholestasis were stimulated with a specific drug in vitro in the presence of a liver microsome fraction or soluble liver specific antigen fraction, lympholine production was seen in many cases. By the injection of culture supernatant of stimulated lymphocytes into the mesentery vein of dogs, cholestasis was induced in the liver, chiefly in the central zones of lobules. However, no cholestasis could be observed in dogs administered the supernatants of lymphocyte cultures prepared from normal individuals in the presence of drugs. Moreover, only slight swelling of the hepatocytes was observed in the liver when normal lymphocytes were stimulated with PHA-P and culture supernatant was injected into the mesentery vein of dogs. These results suggest that sensitized lymphocytes may produce a factor (or factors) by stimulation with a specific drug-carrier and this factor (or factors) causes cholestasis in the liver.", "contents": "Studies on drug-induced allergic intrahepatic cholestasis--hepatic cholestasis induced in dogs by lymphocyte culture supernatant. When peripheral lymphocytes from patients with drug-induced allergic intrahepatic cholestasis were stimulated with a specific drug in vitro in the presence of a liver microsome fraction or soluble liver specific antigen fraction, lympholine production was seen in many cases. By the injection of culture supernatant of stimulated lymphocytes into the mesentery vein of dogs, cholestasis was induced in the liver, chiefly in the central zones of lobules. However, no cholestasis could be observed in dogs administered the supernatants of lymphocyte cultures prepared from normal individuals in the presence of drugs. Moreover, only slight swelling of the hepatocytes was observed in the liver when normal lymphocytes were stimulated with PHA-P and culture supernatant was injected into the mesentery vein of dogs. These results suggest that sensitized lymphocytes may produce a factor (or factors) by stimulation with a specific drug-carrier and this factor (or factors) causes cholestasis in the liver.", "PMID": 446983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7836", "title": "Lipid peroxidation and lysosomal enzymes in D-galactosamine hepatitis and its protection by vitamin E.", "content": "Role of lipid peroxidation on lysosomal instability in liver tissue was investiaged in an experimental model of D-galactosamine hepatitis in rats fed on vitamin E (V.E) deficient diet. Administration of D-galactisamine to V.E deficient rats resulted in a sudden increase of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (sGOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (sGPT), lipid peroxide value, as well as beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase activity examined as markers of lysosomal enzymes, when compared with control rats fed on V.E supplemented diet. Lipid peroxide in the liver tissue also showed significant increase in V.E deficient rats. In contrast, beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase in the liver tissue were found to decrease in V.E deficient rats by the administration of D-galactosamine, indicating that the enzymes in the lysosome were entirely released outside the liver cells as a result of cell destruction. It is concluded that the increase of lipid peroxide causes the instability of lysosomal membranes and releases various kinds of hydrolytic enzymes to lead further to cell damage. V.E might act on inhibiting lipid peroxidation to stabilize lysosomal membranes.", "contents": "Lipid peroxidation and lysosomal enzymes in D-galactosamine hepatitis and its protection by vitamin E. Role of lipid peroxidation on lysosomal instability in liver tissue was investiaged in an experimental model of D-galactosamine hepatitis in rats fed on vitamin E (V.E) deficient diet. Administration of D-galactisamine to V.E deficient rats resulted in a sudden increase of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (sGOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (sGPT), lipid peroxide value, as well as beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase activity examined as markers of lysosomal enzymes, when compared with control rats fed on V.E supplemented diet. Lipid peroxide in the liver tissue also showed significant increase in V.E deficient rats. In contrast, beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase in the liver tissue were found to decrease in V.E deficient rats by the administration of D-galactosamine, indicating that the enzymes in the lysosome were entirely released outside the liver cells as a result of cell destruction. It is concluded that the increase of lipid peroxide causes the instability of lysosomal membranes and releases various kinds of hydrolytic enzymes to lead further to cell damage. V.E might act on inhibiting lipid peroxidation to stabilize lysosomal membranes.", "PMID": 446984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7837", "title": "Etiology of cholesterol gallstones.", "content": "Formation of pure cholesterol stones is initiated by an excessive intake of highly purified carbohydrates, a large intake of animal fats and a restricted intake of vegetable fibers. When the protein content of the lithogenic diet was reduced, mixed or combined stones were formed in golden hamsters. These experimentally, dietarily produced gallstones had compositions and fine structures similar to those of human gallstones. Some mentions were made on black stones which were found in the aged golden hamsters fed with lithogenic diets.", "contents": "Etiology of cholesterol gallstones. Formation of pure cholesterol stones is initiated by an excessive intake of highly purified carbohydrates, a large intake of animal fats and a restricted intake of vegetable fibers. When the protein content of the lithogenic diet was reduced, mixed or combined stones were formed in golden hamsters. These experimentally, dietarily produced gallstones had compositions and fine structures similar to those of human gallstones. Some mentions were made on black stones which were found in the aged golden hamsters fed with lithogenic diets.", "PMID": 446985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7838", "title": "Clinical studies on human pancreatic deoxyribonuclease I.", "content": "Duodenal juice collected after administration of Boot's pancreozymin and secretin to patients with various pancreatic diseases was subjected to deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) assay, as well as measurements of total volume, amylase output and maximum bicarbonate concentration. It was observed that the DNase I output is well correlated with each of three factors. The DNase I output was much lower in patients with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer than in control subjects, and DNase I output was even found to be low in patients suspected of having chronic pancreatitis, who did not give abnormal resulsts with other assay methods. These results imply that DNase I output may be a good indicator of exocrine function of the pancreas, and thus may be useful for early detection of pancreatic diseases.", "contents": "Clinical studies on human pancreatic deoxyribonuclease I. Duodenal juice collected after administration of Boot's pancreozymin and secretin to patients with various pancreatic diseases was subjected to deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) assay, as well as measurements of total volume, amylase output and maximum bicarbonate concentration. It was observed that the DNase I output is well correlated with each of three factors. The DNase I output was much lower in patients with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer than in control subjects, and DNase I output was even found to be low in patients suspected of having chronic pancreatitis, who did not give abnormal resulsts with other assay methods. These results imply that DNase I output may be a good indicator of exocrine function of the pancreas, and thus may be useful for early detection of pancreatic diseases.", "PMID": 446986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7839", "title": "Assessment of the clinical usefulness of serum ribonuclease assays: an indicator for the detection of pancreatic cancer.", "content": "To evaluate diagnostic usefulness for pancreatic cancer, serum ribonuclease (RNase) level was determined in three groups of subjects; 1) normal volunteers as control, 2) patients with histologically determined pancreatic cancer, and 3) patients with miscellaneous diseases other than pancreatic cancer. A small increase of RNase values was recognized with age in the normal subjects and in the patients with nonpancreatic diseases, if renal function was normal. The mean RNase level in the control subjects was 97 +/- 41.2 units. A marked elevation of serum RNase level was demonstrated in the patients with pancreatic cancer (p less than 0.001) and in the patients with renal dysfuction, but no significant rise was noticed in the patients with pancreatitis. Mean values of RNase in the patients with pancreatic cancer and renal dysfuncton were 368 +/- 146 units and 342 +/- 78.1 units respectively. RNase values above 300 units were recognized in 15(71%) out of 21 patients with pancreatic cancer. Seven cases with elevated RNase over 300 units other than non-pancreatic malignancy and renal dysfunction were noticed in 6 instances of obstructive jaundice and in one instance of early gastric cancer (an 84-year-old male). The above-stated findings indicate that serum RNase determinations can be utilized as a diagnostic indicator for pancreatic cancer.", "contents": "Assessment of the clinical usefulness of serum ribonuclease assays: an indicator for the detection of pancreatic cancer. To evaluate diagnostic usefulness for pancreatic cancer, serum ribonuclease (RNase) level was determined in three groups of subjects; 1) normal volunteers as control, 2) patients with histologically determined pancreatic cancer, and 3) patients with miscellaneous diseases other than pancreatic cancer. A small increase of RNase values was recognized with age in the normal subjects and in the patients with nonpancreatic diseases, if renal function was normal. The mean RNase level in the control subjects was 97 +/- 41.2 units. A marked elevation of serum RNase level was demonstrated in the patients with pancreatic cancer (p less than 0.001) and in the patients with renal dysfuction, but no significant rise was noticed in the patients with pancreatitis. Mean values of RNase in the patients with pancreatic cancer and renal dysfuncton were 368 +/- 146 units and 342 +/- 78.1 units respectively. RNase values above 300 units were recognized in 15(71%) out of 21 patients with pancreatic cancer. Seven cases with elevated RNase over 300 units other than non-pancreatic malignancy and renal dysfunction were noticed in 6 instances of obstructive jaundice and in one instance of early gastric cancer (an 84-year-old male). The above-stated findings indicate that serum RNase determinations can be utilized as a diagnostic indicator for pancreatic cancer.", "PMID": 446987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7840", "title": "Interaction of secretin and glucagon on exocrine pancreatic secretion.", "content": "Inhibition of secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion by glucagon was studied in anesthetized dogs. Two external pancreatic fistulas were prepared in dogs for both simultaneous and separate collection of pancreatic juice secreted by the right and left lobes. Two series of experiments were preformed. In the first, graded doses of glucagon (2.5 to 20 micrograms/kg/hr) were administered against a background infusion of 2 CHR U/kg/hr of secretin. In the second, a constant dose of glucagon (20 micrograms/kg/hr) was given against a background infusion of secretin doubling from 1 to 8 U/kg/hr. Infusion of glucagon was started when flow rate became nearly constant, and continued for 60 minutes in each dose. Glucagon produced the dose-related reduction in flow rate and bicarbonate secretion, but not in amylase secretion. This inhibitory effect was almost the same in size between the right and left lobes. No significant change of plasma secretin was observed during glucagon infusion. Michealis-Menten analysis of the dose in slopes (Km) and similar intercepts of Y-axis (CMR). These results suggest that glucagon inhibits competitively secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion by acting probably on the same receptor as secretin.", "contents": "Interaction of secretin and glucagon on exocrine pancreatic secretion. Inhibition of secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion by glucagon was studied in anesthetized dogs. Two external pancreatic fistulas were prepared in dogs for both simultaneous and separate collection of pancreatic juice secreted by the right and left lobes. Two series of experiments were preformed. In the first, graded doses of glucagon (2.5 to 20 micrograms/kg/hr) were administered against a background infusion of 2 CHR U/kg/hr of secretin. In the second, a constant dose of glucagon (20 micrograms/kg/hr) was given against a background infusion of secretin doubling from 1 to 8 U/kg/hr. Infusion of glucagon was started when flow rate became nearly constant, and continued for 60 minutes in each dose. Glucagon produced the dose-related reduction in flow rate and bicarbonate secretion, but not in amylase secretion. This inhibitory effect was almost the same in size between the right and left lobes. No significant change of plasma secretin was observed during glucagon infusion. Michealis-Menten analysis of the dose in slopes (Km) and similar intercepts of Y-axis (CMR). These results suggest that glucagon inhibits competitively secretin-stimulated pancreatic secretion by acting probably on the same receptor as secretin.", "PMID": 446988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7841", "title": "RNase levels in golden hamster with DHPN induced pancreatic cancer.", "content": "Twenty Syrian golden hamsters recieved weekly injections of pancreatic cancer inducing DHPN. Their Poly (U) specific serum RNase levels were significantly elevated when compared to the control levels. Following salt fractionation, Poly (U) specific activity was present in both the 40% and 50% salt saturated fractions. Tissue assays showed that Poly (U) specific RNase was present in both pancreas and liver tissue extract, although the liver tissue RNase had a different pH maximum than that of the serum RNase.", "contents": "RNase levels in golden hamster with DHPN induced pancreatic cancer. Twenty Syrian golden hamsters recieved weekly injections of pancreatic cancer inducing DHPN. Their Poly (U) specific serum RNase levels were significantly elevated when compared to the control levels. Following salt fractionation, Poly (U) specific activity was present in both the 40% and 50% salt saturated fractions. Tissue assays showed that Poly (U) specific RNase was present in both pancreas and liver tissue extract, although the liver tissue RNase had a different pH maximum than that of the serum RNase.", "PMID": 446989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7842", "title": "Endoscopic analysis on the growth of early gastric carcinoma.", "content": "Earliest endoscopic appearance and its subsequent changes were studied in 41 cases of early gastric carcinoma where gastrocamera photographs were available for detailed analysis over the period from three months up to 10 years. The earliest appearance of polypoid carcinoma was a small area of nodularity, and that of carcinoma with mucosal depression was patchy reddening. Both types of carcinoma were thought to occur initially as a lesion without mucosal elevation or depression (IIb). In carcinoma with shallow mucosal depression (IIc and IIc-+III), there were cases believed to have remained intramucosal for an extremely long period of several years, whereas, in polypoid carcinoma (IIa and I), the growth seemed to be more rapid. In the cases with ulcer within the carcinomatous lesion, healing of the ulcer was confirmed in 37%, and \"malignant cycles\" were observed in 21%. Malignant transformation of gastric ulcer was suggested in one case with linear ulcer.", "contents": "Endoscopic analysis on the growth of early gastric carcinoma. Earliest endoscopic appearance and its subsequent changes were studied in 41 cases of early gastric carcinoma where gastrocamera photographs were available for detailed analysis over the period from three months up to 10 years. The earliest appearance of polypoid carcinoma was a small area of nodularity, and that of carcinoma with mucosal depression was patchy reddening. Both types of carcinoma were thought to occur initially as a lesion without mucosal elevation or depression (IIb). In carcinoma with shallow mucosal depression (IIc and IIc-+III), there were cases believed to have remained intramucosal for an extremely long period of several years, whereas, in polypoid carcinoma (IIa and I), the growth seemed to be more rapid. In the cases with ulcer within the carcinomatous lesion, healing of the ulcer was confirmed in 37%, and \"malignant cycles\" were observed in 21%. Malignant transformation of gastric ulcer was suggested in one case with linear ulcer.", "PMID": 446990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7843", "title": "Determination of 15N-ammonia by chemical ionization mass spectrometry.", "content": "The tracing of ammonium nitrogen is important in hepatic diseases, especially in liver cirrhosis with hyperammonemia. In this paper, a new convenient method is described for determining stable isotope 15N-labeled ammonia using the Conway apparatus and chemical ionization mass spectrometry. The minimum quantity of ammonia necessary for reliable measure of 15N content was 0.1 muMol. The average error was 5.3%. In clinical application, 4 ml of blood after oral administration of 1 g of 15NH4Cl was sufficient for measurement.", "contents": "Determination of 15N-ammonia by chemical ionization mass spectrometry. The tracing of ammonium nitrogen is important in hepatic diseases, especially in liver cirrhosis with hyperammonemia. In this paper, a new convenient method is described for determining stable isotope 15N-labeled ammonia using the Conway apparatus and chemical ionization mass spectrometry. The minimum quantity of ammonia necessary for reliable measure of 15N content was 0.1 muMol. The average error was 5.3%. In clinical application, 4 ml of blood after oral administration of 1 g of 15NH4Cl was sufficient for measurement.", "PMID": 446991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7844", "title": "High performance liquid-chromatographic analysis of individual bile acids: free, glycine- and taurine-conjugated bile acids.", "content": "High performance liquid-chromatographic analyses of individual bile acids (cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and lithocholic acid), free and conjugated with glycine and taurine, are described. The analyses of free and glycine-conjugated bile acids are based on esterification of carboxyl group of bile acids with O-(p-nitrobenzyl)-N, N'-diisopropylisourea (PNBDI). Moreover, ursodeoxycholic acid, hyocholic acid, hyodeoxycholic acid and 3beta-hydroxy-5-cholenoic acid also are able to analyse by this method. These bile acids in biological sample were extracted by an Amberlite XAD-2 column, and separated by DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B into free, glycine- and taurine-conjugated bile acids. After the separation, free and glycine-conjugated bile acids were esterified with PNBDI directly. Because taurine-conjugated bile acids are unable to be esterified with PNBDI, these bile acids were hydrolyzed by NaOH in order to make free bile acids, and then they were esterified. Because the p-nitrobenzyl ester of bile acids has characteristic ultraviolet absorption, these compounds were separated to individual bile acids by high performance liquid-chromatography, and detected by an UV-detector. An analysis of individual bile acids in human bile was demonstrated.", "contents": "High performance liquid-chromatographic analysis of individual bile acids: free, glycine- and taurine-conjugated bile acids. High performance liquid-chromatographic analyses of individual bile acids (cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and lithocholic acid), free and conjugated with glycine and taurine, are described. The analyses of free and glycine-conjugated bile acids are based on esterification of carboxyl group of bile acids with O-(p-nitrobenzyl)-N, N'-diisopropylisourea (PNBDI). Moreover, ursodeoxycholic acid, hyocholic acid, hyodeoxycholic acid and 3beta-hydroxy-5-cholenoic acid also are able to analyse by this method. These bile acids in biological sample were extracted by an Amberlite XAD-2 column, and separated by DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B into free, glycine- and taurine-conjugated bile acids. After the separation, free and glycine-conjugated bile acids were esterified with PNBDI directly. Because taurine-conjugated bile acids are unable to be esterified with PNBDI, these bile acids were hydrolyzed by NaOH in order to make free bile acids, and then they were esterified. Because the p-nitrobenzyl ester of bile acids has characteristic ultraviolet absorption, these compounds were separated to individual bile acids by high performance liquid-chromatography, and detected by an UV-detector. An analysis of individual bile acids in human bile was demonstrated.", "PMID": 446993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7845", "title": "Review of five cases of limy bile--particularly on radiological, chemical and crystallographic studies--.", "content": "Incidence of \"limy bile\" is relatively rare and only 120 cases have been recorded in Japan so far. The present report is to add five more cases operated on at our clinic. On chemical analysis by atomic absorption spectrophotometry calcium carbonate was the major constituent of solid portion and ranged from 73.5 to 88.5%. On crystallographic analyses, the infrared spectra by means of KBr-disk method gave patterns of calcium carbonate in all cases, and the X-ray powder diffraction studies disclosed those of aragonite only in cases 2 and 4, and aragonite-calcite mixture in cases 1 and 3. The exact etiology of formation of limy bile in the gallbladder has not yet been understood completely.", "contents": "Review of five cases of limy bile--particularly on radiological, chemical and crystallographic studies--. Incidence of \"limy bile\" is relatively rare and only 120 cases have been recorded in Japan so far. The present report is to add five more cases operated on at our clinic. On chemical analysis by atomic absorption spectrophotometry calcium carbonate was the major constituent of solid portion and ranged from 73.5 to 88.5%. On crystallographic analyses, the infrared spectra by means of KBr-disk method gave patterns of calcium carbonate in all cases, and the X-ray powder diffraction studies disclosed those of aragonite only in cases 2 and 4, and aragonite-calcite mixture in cases 1 and 3. The exact etiology of formation of limy bile in the gallbladder has not yet been understood completely.", "PMID": 446994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7846", "title": "Application of magnification radiography to the biliary system.", "content": "Magnification radiography was applied for the diagnosis of the biliary tract diseases including cancer. Our X-ray unit was consisting of HITACHI DR-155-23 U-6M-55P and 0.1 mm focal-spot tube, FFD 80 cm giving a magnification of x2 with the conditions of 60 kVp, 20 mA, 0.8 sec. Intensifying screens such as Kyokko LH II (for a standard sized subject) or DuPont Q II (for an obese subject) were used in combination with Fuji RX films. We confirmed a high diagnostic value in revealing early lesions of this sytem. The skin dose test indicated that this technique was routinely applicable with safety for clinical use.", "contents": "Application of magnification radiography to the biliary system. Magnification radiography was applied for the diagnosis of the biliary tract diseases including cancer. Our X-ray unit was consisting of HITACHI DR-155-23 U-6M-55P and 0.1 mm focal-spot tube, FFD 80 cm giving a magnification of x2 with the conditions of 60 kVp, 20 mA, 0.8 sec. Intensifying screens such as Kyokko LH II (for a standard sized subject) or DuPont Q II (for an obese subject) were used in combination with Fuji RX films. We confirmed a high diagnostic value in revealing early lesions of this sytem. The skin dose test indicated that this technique was routinely applicable with safety for clinical use.", "PMID": 446995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7847", "title": "A fluorescence histochemical study for the motility of the gallbladder.", "content": "For the purpose of elucidating the motility, particularly the mechanism of contraction of the gallbladder, we classified gallbladders isolated surgically into three groups for a study. That is, the three groups comprised Group I of 40 cases of cholelithiasis with good contraction, Group II of 10 cases of cholelithiasis with poor contraction and Group III of 10 cases of cholelithiasis after gastrectomy for a total of 60 cases. Using gallbladders of these cases, we started with a fundamental study on the autonomic nervous action by the fluorescence histochemical method of Flack and Hillarp and obtained results as follows. Similar results were obtained for Group I and Group II; the gallbladder was subjected to adrenergic innervation and cholinergic innervation, and there was a clear localized difference between true-cholinesterase and pseudo-cholinesterase of the cholinergic nerve. In Group III, proliferation of adrenergic nerve was observed compared with Groups I and II, while disappearance of cholinergic nerve was seen. The gallbladder of Group III showed slight contraction with cholecystokinin, but it was not blocked with atropine.", "contents": "A fluorescence histochemical study for the motility of the gallbladder. For the purpose of elucidating the motility, particularly the mechanism of contraction of the gallbladder, we classified gallbladders isolated surgically into three groups for a study. That is, the three groups comprised Group I of 40 cases of cholelithiasis with good contraction, Group II of 10 cases of cholelithiasis with poor contraction and Group III of 10 cases of cholelithiasis after gastrectomy for a total of 60 cases. Using gallbladders of these cases, we started with a fundamental study on the autonomic nervous action by the fluorescence histochemical method of Flack and Hillarp and obtained results as follows. Similar results were obtained for Group I and Group II; the gallbladder was subjected to adrenergic innervation and cholinergic innervation, and there was a clear localized difference between true-cholinesterase and pseudo-cholinesterase of the cholinergic nerve. In Group III, proliferation of adrenergic nerve was observed compared with Groups I and II, while disappearance of cholinergic nerve was seen. The gallbladder of Group III showed slight contraction with cholecystokinin, but it was not blocked with atropine.", "PMID": 446996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7848", "title": "On the Mirizzi syndrome--benign stenosis of the hepatic duct induced by a stone in the cystic duct or the neck of the gallbladder.", "content": "Three cases of Mirizzi Syndrome are reported. One of them was induced by the stone in gallbladder remnant. On the cholangiogram, one case showed narrowing of common hepatic duct near the porta hepatis, and one case revealed a tapered narrowing-like stenosis. Those findings resembled malignancy but closer examination could differentiate this syndrome from malignancy. Selective angiography was useful to differentiate the syndrome from malignancy. Even in the cases where stricture is severe, exstirpation of gallbladder or cystic duct, freeing the anterior wall of extrahepatic bile duct from marked hyperplasia of fibrous tissues and insertion of a T-tube as an internal splint through the stenosis were effective. It is the opinion of the authors, therefore, that the reconstruction of a strictured bile duct may not necessarily be done by resection of stricture and a hepatojejunostomy.", "contents": "On the Mirizzi syndrome--benign stenosis of the hepatic duct induced by a stone in the cystic duct or the neck of the gallbladder. Three cases of Mirizzi Syndrome are reported. One of them was induced by the stone in gallbladder remnant. On the cholangiogram, one case showed narrowing of common hepatic duct near the porta hepatis, and one case revealed a tapered narrowing-like stenosis. Those findings resembled malignancy but closer examination could differentiate this syndrome from malignancy. Selective angiography was useful to differentiate the syndrome from malignancy. Even in the cases where stricture is severe, exstirpation of gallbladder or cystic duct, freeing the anterior wall of extrahepatic bile duct from marked hyperplasia of fibrous tissues and insertion of a T-tube as an internal splint through the stenosis were effective. It is the opinion of the authors, therefore, that the reconstruction of a strictured bile duct may not necessarily be done by resection of stricture and a hepatojejunostomy.", "PMID": 446997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7849", "title": "Light and electron microscopic radioautography of rat stomach G-cells labeled with 3H-amino acids.", "content": "This paper reports light and electron microscope radioautographic studies of the sites of gastrin synthesis and the paths of intracellular migration of secretory granules in G-cells of rat glandular stomach incubated in vitro with 3H-glutamic acid and/or 3H-glycine at pH 8.2 or 2.5. Although the ultrastructural preservation of tissues maintained in pH 2.5 medium deteriorated within 30 minutes after beginning incubation, morphological observation was possible at least 60 minutes in the pH 8.2 medium. At 5 minutes, silver grains were few, and located chiefly over granular endoplasmic reticulum. After 30 minutes of labeling, silver grains were more numerous and found over the cytoplasm rich in secretory granules and over the nucleus. After incubation for 60 minutes, the distribution of silver grains was the same as at 30 minutes incubation but the labeling was heavier. Secretory granules of different sizes and electron densities were not differentially labeled. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) glutamic acid and/or glycine are incorporated in G-cells, synthesized into proteins and/or polypeptides in the rough surfaced endoplasmic reticulum and formed into secretory granules probably in the Golgi area: (2) the secretory granules thus formed migrate from the Golgi zone to the peripheral cytoplasm and are stored there; and (3) the kinetics of secretion in G-cells are fairly speedy under certain conditions.", "contents": "Light and electron microscopic radioautography of rat stomach G-cells labeled with 3H-amino acids. This paper reports light and electron microscope radioautographic studies of the sites of gastrin synthesis and the paths of intracellular migration of secretory granules in G-cells of rat glandular stomach incubated in vitro with 3H-glutamic acid and/or 3H-glycine at pH 8.2 or 2.5. Although the ultrastructural preservation of tissues maintained in pH 2.5 medium deteriorated within 30 minutes after beginning incubation, morphological observation was possible at least 60 minutes in the pH 8.2 medium. At 5 minutes, silver grains were few, and located chiefly over granular endoplasmic reticulum. After 30 minutes of labeling, silver grains were more numerous and found over the cytoplasm rich in secretory granules and over the nucleus. After incubation for 60 minutes, the distribution of silver grains was the same as at 30 minutes incubation but the labeling was heavier. Secretory granules of different sizes and electron densities were not differentially labeled. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) glutamic acid and/or glycine are incorporated in G-cells, synthesized into proteins and/or polypeptides in the rough surfaced endoplasmic reticulum and formed into secretory granules probably in the Golgi area: (2) the secretory granules thus formed migrate from the Golgi zone to the peripheral cytoplasm and are stored there; and (3) the kinetics of secretion in G-cells are fairly speedy under certain conditions.", "PMID": 446998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7850", "title": "Peripheral lymphocyte culture in the diagnosis of drug induced liver injury.", "content": "In order to evaluate the usefulness of the peripheral lymphocyte culture method for the diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury, a study was carried out on 21 cases of drug-induced liver injury (Group A). Nine cases in Group A showed a positive lymphocyte stimulation test. Out of 9 cases which showed positive stimulation six cases were cholestatic type of liver injury, and the remaining three were of hepatitic type. The results suggest that peripheral lymphocyte culture method is a useful method for diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury.", "contents": "Peripheral lymphocyte culture in the diagnosis of drug induced liver injury. In order to evaluate the usefulness of the peripheral lymphocyte culture method for the diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury, a study was carried out on 21 cases of drug-induced liver injury (Group A). Nine cases in Group A showed a positive lymphocyte stimulation test. Out of 9 cases which showed positive stimulation six cases were cholestatic type of liver injury, and the remaining three were of hepatitic type. The results suggest that peripheral lymphocyte culture method is a useful method for diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury.", "PMID": 447001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7851", "title": "Early cancer of duodenal duplication. A case report.", "content": "A case which presented with early cancer of the duodenal duplication in addition to a gallbladder defect is reported. This may be the first case of its kind reported in the literature.", "contents": "Early cancer of duodenal duplication. A case report. A case which presented with early cancer of the duodenal duplication in addition to a gallbladder defect is reported. This may be the first case of its kind reported in the literature.", "PMID": 447002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7852", "title": "A case report of leiomyosarcoma originating in the ligamentum teres of the liver.", "content": "A case of leiomyosarcoma that appeared to have originated in the ligamentum teres hepatis of a 66-year-old female has been presented. The case was suspected of leiomyosarcoma originating in the ligamentum teres of the liver from the findings by preoperative examinations, and definitely diagnosed as such in a laparotomy and by histological examination of the resected tissue specimen.", "contents": "A case report of leiomyosarcoma originating in the ligamentum teres of the liver. A case of leiomyosarcoma that appeared to have originated in the ligamentum teres hepatis of a 66-year-old female has been presented. The case was suspected of leiomyosarcoma originating in the ligamentum teres of the liver from the findings by preoperative examinations, and definitely diagnosed as such in a laparotomy and by histological examination of the resected tissue specimen.", "PMID": 447003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7853", "title": "Permselectivity of cat blood-lymph barrier to endogenous macromolecules.", "content": "The restrictive properties of liver blood-lymph barrier to endogenous plasma protein fractions of varying molecular size were studied at different hepatic venous pressures (and lymph flows) using steady-state lymph to plasma protein concentration ratios. At control hepatic venous pressures (0-2 mmHg) the lymph to plasma venous concentration ratios of the various protein fractions indicate significant selectivity by the liver blood-lymph barrier to macromolecules on the basis of molecular size. The sieving observed was consistent with equivalent pore radii of 180-250 A. The transsinusoidal oncotic pressure gradient ranged between 4.0 and 8.0 mmHg at control venous pressures. As venous pressure was increased, liver lymph flow and lymph to plasma protein concentration ratio increased while the blood-lymph oncotic pressure gradient decreased. Liver lymph flow was linearly related to hepatic venous pressure. At lymph flow less than or equal to 10 x control, there is no longer a sieving effect on plasma protein; findings consistent with por radii in excess of 1000 A. The results of this study suggest that maximal sieving by the liver blood-lymph barrier occur at normal capillary filtration rates and support the possibility that the interstitium is the rate limiting barrier for blood to lymph transport of macromolecules in the liver.", "contents": "Permselectivity of cat blood-lymph barrier to endogenous macromolecules. The restrictive properties of liver blood-lymph barrier to endogenous plasma protein fractions of varying molecular size were studied at different hepatic venous pressures (and lymph flows) using steady-state lymph to plasma protein concentration ratios. At control hepatic venous pressures (0-2 mmHg) the lymph to plasma venous concentration ratios of the various protein fractions indicate significant selectivity by the liver blood-lymph barrier to macromolecules on the basis of molecular size. The sieving observed was consistent with equivalent pore radii of 180-250 A. The transsinusoidal oncotic pressure gradient ranged between 4.0 and 8.0 mmHg at control venous pressures. As venous pressure was increased, liver lymph flow and lymph to plasma protein concentration ratio increased while the blood-lymph oncotic pressure gradient decreased. Liver lymph flow was linearly related to hepatic venous pressure. At lymph flow less than or equal to 10 x control, there is no longer a sieving effect on plasma protein; findings consistent with por radii in excess of 1000 A. The results of this study suggest that maximal sieving by the liver blood-lymph barrier occur at normal capillary filtration rates and support the possibility that the interstitium is the rate limiting barrier for blood to lymph transport of macromolecules in the liver.", "PMID": 447005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7854", "title": "Gallbladder emptying in response to cholecystokinin. A cholescintigraphic study.", "content": "The threshold and dynamics of gallbladder emptying in human subjects in response to cholecystokinin (Pancreozymin, Boots Co. Ltd) were defined by radionuclide imaging with a gamma camera. The radiopharmaceutical employed, 99mTc-HIDA, was taken up rapidly by the liver and efficiently excreted into the biliary system so that gallbladder filling was easily distinguishable from negligible background activity. Counts were recorded continuously on magnetic tape during i.v. infusion of sequentially increasing doses of cholecystokinin: Each dose level was maintained for 15 min. At later playback, the area of interest was adjusted to include only the gallbladder and to exclude radioactivity present in the gut during gallbladder emptying. In 19 normal subjects (10 male and 9 female), a threshold dose of cholecystokin was identified for gallbladder contraction: 0.010 Crick-Harper-Raper units/kg-min in 16 subjects, and 0.020 Crick-Harper-Raper units/kg-min in the remaining 3. The rate of emptying appeared smooth and linear at each dose level: Doubling the dose of cholecystokinin in every case significantly increased the emptying rate. There appeared to be no effect of increasing age on emptying more rapidly than females, but the difference was not significant. This cholescintigraphic technique would appear to offer a simple, accurate, yet noninvasive method for continuously monitoring the events during gallbladder contraction in humans.", "contents": "Gallbladder emptying in response to cholecystokinin. A cholescintigraphic study. The threshold and dynamics of gallbladder emptying in human subjects in response to cholecystokinin (Pancreozymin, Boots Co. Ltd) were defined by radionuclide imaging with a gamma camera. The radiopharmaceutical employed, 99mTc-HIDA, was taken up rapidly by the liver and efficiently excreted into the biliary system so that gallbladder filling was easily distinguishable from negligible background activity. Counts were recorded continuously on magnetic tape during i.v. infusion of sequentially increasing doses of cholecystokinin: Each dose level was maintained for 15 min. At later playback, the area of interest was adjusted to include only the gallbladder and to exclude radioactivity present in the gut during gallbladder emptying. In 19 normal subjects (10 male and 9 female), a threshold dose of cholecystokin was identified for gallbladder contraction: 0.010 Crick-Harper-Raper units/kg-min in 16 subjects, and 0.020 Crick-Harper-Raper units/kg-min in the remaining 3. The rate of emptying appeared smooth and linear at each dose level: Doubling the dose of cholecystokinin in every case significantly increased the emptying rate. There appeared to be no effect of increasing age on emptying more rapidly than females, but the difference was not significant. This cholescintigraphic technique would appear to offer a simple, accurate, yet noninvasive method for continuously monitoring the events during gallbladder contraction in humans.", "PMID": 447006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7855", "title": "Unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia during treatment with chenodeoxycholic acid.", "content": "The authors describe a slight but significant increase in the serum levels of indirect-reacting bilirubin in gallstone patients after 3 and 6 mo of treatment with chenodeoxycholic acid. A return to pretreatment values was noted at 9 mo. The mechanism of this abnormality remains unclear. Two explanations are theoretically possible: a subclinical hemolysis or a modification of the hepatic transport and/or the conjugation of bilirubin.", "contents": "Unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia during treatment with chenodeoxycholic acid. The authors describe a slight but significant increase in the serum levels of indirect-reacting bilirubin in gallstone patients after 3 and 6 mo of treatment with chenodeoxycholic acid. A return to pretreatment values was noted at 9 mo. The mechanism of this abnormality remains unclear. Two explanations are theoretically possible: a subclinical hemolysis or a modification of the hepatic transport and/or the conjugation of bilirubin.", "PMID": 447008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7856", "title": "Changes in polyamine metabolism of rat liver after administration of D-galactosamine. Favorable effects of putrescine administration on galactosamine-induced hepatic injury.", "content": "There are many reports showing a close relation between polyamine metabolism and tissue growth or recovery of damaged tissues, such as regenerating liver. Thus, changes in polyamine metabolism in the livers from rats treated with D-galactosamine, an inducer of experimental hepatitis, were studied. The activity of ornithine decarboxylase started to increase 14 hr after administration of galactosamine and reached 30 times the normal activity at about 25 hr, the time of maximum severity of hepatitis. The content of putrescine increased to about 10 times the control value. After increases in the putrescine content and ornithine decarboxylase activity, the hepatitis started to diminish. Increases in the activity of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase and the content of spermidine were observed 33-37 hr after administration of galactosamine. The maximum values of these parameters, which were significantly higher than the control values, were observed after the healing process had started.", "contents": "Changes in polyamine metabolism of rat liver after administration of D-galactosamine. Favorable effects of putrescine administration on galactosamine-induced hepatic injury. There are many reports showing a close relation between polyamine metabolism and tissue growth or recovery of damaged tissues, such as regenerating liver. Thus, changes in polyamine metabolism in the livers from rats treated with D-galactosamine, an inducer of experimental hepatitis, were studied. The activity of ornithine decarboxylase started to increase 14 hr after administration of galactosamine and reached 30 times the normal activity at about 25 hr, the time of maximum severity of hepatitis. The content of putrescine increased to about 10 times the control value. After increases in the putrescine content and ornithine decarboxylase activity, the hepatitis started to diminish. Increases in the activity of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase and the content of spermidine were observed 33-37 hr after administration of galactosamine. The maximum values of these parameters, which were significantly higher than the control values, were observed after the healing process had started.", "PMID": 447009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7857", "title": "Endoprosthesis for internal drainage of the biliary tract. Technique and results in 48 cases.", "content": "In 48 patients with obstructive jaundice caused by unresectable lesions, a polyethylene tube was inserted into the biliary tract using a percutaneous transhepatic technique. This endoprosthesis provided permanent internal drainage without an external catheter. In 27 patients, bilirubin declined to anicteric or subicteric levels and pruritus subsided. In six patients, endoprosthesis had an intermediate effect, with moderate falls in bilirubin and improvement of their general condition. This method does not seem to increase the risk of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, which precedes insertion. It is recommended for patients with inoperable bile duct obstruction and may replace surgical biliodigestive anastomoses in patients with unresectable lesions.", "contents": "Endoprosthesis for internal drainage of the biliary tract. Technique and results in 48 cases. In 48 patients with obstructive jaundice caused by unresectable lesions, a polyethylene tube was inserted into the biliary tract using a percutaneous transhepatic technique. This endoprosthesis provided permanent internal drainage without an external catheter. In 27 patients, bilirubin declined to anicteric or subicteric levels and pruritus subsided. In six patients, endoprosthesis had an intermediate effect, with moderate falls in bilirubin and improvement of their general condition. This method does not seem to increase the risk of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, which precedes insertion. It is recommended for patients with inoperable bile duct obstruction and may replace surgical biliodigestive anastomoses in patients with unresectable lesions.", "PMID": 447010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7858", "title": "The role of radiocopper in the diagnosis of Wilson's disease.", "content": "In patients with normal serum concentrations of ceruloplasmin, measurement of the incorporation of radiocopper into this protein can aid in the clinically important differentiation of patients with hepatic illnesses that mimic Wilson's disease from patients with this disorder.", "contents": "The role of radiocopper in the diagnosis of Wilson's disease. In patients with normal serum concentrations of ceruloplasmin, measurement of the incorporation of radiocopper into this protein can aid in the clinically important differentiation of patients with hepatic illnesses that mimic Wilson's disease from patients with this disorder.", "PMID": 447011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7859", "title": "Cimetidine hepatitis.", "content": "This case of an adult with cimetidine-induced hepatitis is presented. An etiologic role for the drug was strongly suggested when the patient developed transient hepatic dysfunction after two reexposures to cimetidine, which reverted promptly on withdrawal of the drug. The temporal relation between the administration of the drug and the development of hepatic dysfunction suggests that it is a hypersensitivity type of reaction.", "contents": "Cimetidine hepatitis. This case of an adult with cimetidine-induced hepatitis is presented. An etiologic role for the drug was strongly suggested when the patient developed transient hepatic dysfunction after two reexposures to cimetidine, which reverted promptly on withdrawal of the drug. The temporal relation between the administration of the drug and the development of hepatic dysfunction suggests that it is a hypersensitivity type of reaction.", "PMID": 447012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7860", "title": "Investigation of a patient with Hodgkin's disease and cholestasis.", "content": "A patient with the cholestasis of Hodgkin's disease was investigated. Our studies failed to relate the cholestasis to endocrine abnormalities. The patient had severely abnormal aminopyrine metabolism, suggesting more profound hepatocellular dysfunction than had previously been appreciated.", "contents": "Investigation of a patient with Hodgkin's disease and cholestasis. A patient with the cholestasis of Hodgkin's disease was investigated. Our studies failed to relate the cholestasis to endocrine abnormalities. The patient had severely abnormal aminopyrine metabolism, suggesting more profound hepatocellular dysfunction than had previously been appreciated.", "PMID": 447013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7861", "title": "Familial juvenile polyposis of the stomach.", "content": "Innumerable polyps of the stomach were recognized in a 13-yr old girl. She had no extragastric polyps on roentgenographic and endoscopic studies. Her elder brother received a subtotal gastrectomy because of gastric polyposis at 14 yr of age. Their mother died of gastric cancer at 37 yr of age. Only these three subjects in this family had unusual brown hair and were low in normal intelligence. Polyps produced chronic and severe loss of both blood and protein, which resolved after a subtotal gastrectomy at 18 yr of age. Macroscopic and histologic observations of polyps in the resected stomach confirmed the diagnosis of juvenile polyposis. Both siblings are now in good health. Classification of this hereditary syndrome as a newly recognized entity, familial juvenile polyposis of the stomach, is proposed.", "contents": "Familial juvenile polyposis of the stomach. Innumerable polyps of the stomach were recognized in a 13-yr old girl. She had no extragastric polyps on roentgenographic and endoscopic studies. Her elder brother received a subtotal gastrectomy because of gastric polyposis at 14 yr of age. Their mother died of gastric cancer at 37 yr of age. Only these three subjects in this family had unusual brown hair and were low in normal intelligence. Polyps produced chronic and severe loss of both blood and protein, which resolved after a subtotal gastrectomy at 18 yr of age. Macroscopic and histologic observations of polyps in the resected stomach confirmed the diagnosis of juvenile polyposis. Both siblings are now in good health. Classification of this hereditary syndrome as a newly recognized entity, familial juvenile polyposis of the stomach, is proposed.", "PMID": 447014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7862", "title": "Clinical experience with total colectomy and endorectal mucosal resection for inflammatory bowel disease.", "content": "During the past 3 yr, 17 patients with chronic ulcerative colitis and 6 with Crohn's disease who had severe rectal and colonic involvement underwent excision of the rectal mucosa without removal of the rectal muscle in combination with total colectomy and cutaneous ileostomy as a 1- or 2-stage procedure. This operative technique has cured each of the patients of their primary colonic and rectal disease and has obviated many of the unpleasant complications that often occur after total proctectomy, such as impotence, prolonged perineal drainage, and bladder dysfunction. The operation has the further advantages of lower operative blood loss, shorter operative time, and earlier safe ambulation. On the basis of the favorable experience with mucosal proctectomy, sphincterotomy, and perineal drainage in 23 patients, none of whom experienced major complications, we believe that this operation warrants further clinical trial in patients with inflammatory bowel disease involving the rectum, which is refractory to medical therapy. Total proctectomy might eventually find scant application in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.", "contents": "Clinical experience with total colectomy and endorectal mucosal resection for inflammatory bowel disease. During the past 3 yr, 17 patients with chronic ulcerative colitis and 6 with Crohn's disease who had severe rectal and colonic involvement underwent excision of the rectal mucosa without removal of the rectal muscle in combination with total colectomy and cutaneous ileostomy as a 1- or 2-stage procedure. This operative technique has cured each of the patients of their primary colonic and rectal disease and has obviated many of the unpleasant complications that often occur after total proctectomy, such as impotence, prolonged perineal drainage, and bladder dysfunction. The operation has the further advantages of lower operative blood loss, shorter operative time, and earlier safe ambulation. On the basis of the favorable experience with mucosal proctectomy, sphincterotomy, and perineal drainage in 23 patients, none of whom experienced major complications, we believe that this operation warrants further clinical trial in patients with inflammatory bowel disease involving the rectum, which is refractory to medical therapy. Total proctectomy might eventually find scant application in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.", "PMID": 447015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7863", "title": "Serum gastrin during intestinal phase of acid secretion in dogs.", "content": "These studies were designed to determine whether the intestinal phase of gastric acid secretion is accompanied by an increase in serum gastrin concentration. Seven dogs with a gastric fistula and a duodenal fistula prepared so as to allow perfusion into the duodenum without reflux into the stomach were used. Gastric secretion and blood samples for serum gastrin determination were collected during intestinal perfusion with either 0.15 M NaCl or 5% liver extract at 200 ml hr(-1) for 2 hr. The mean +/- SE gastric acid secretory response during the second hour of perfusion with 0.15 M NaCl was 3.1 +/- 1.0% of the maximal acid output (MAO) to histamine, significantly (P less than 0.05) greater than the control value with no intestinal perfusion (0.18 +/- 0.07%). The mean +/- SE response during the second hour of perfusion with 5% liver extract was 7.4 +/- 2.2% of MAO, significantly (P less than 0.05) greater than both control and NaCl perfusion values. There was no significant change in peripheral serum gastrin concentration during the response to perfusion with either NaCl or liver extract. We conclude that, under the conditions of the present study, the intestinal phase of gastric acid secretion was not accompanied by an increase in serum gastrin concentration.", "contents": "Serum gastrin during intestinal phase of acid secretion in dogs. These studies were designed to determine whether the intestinal phase of gastric acid secretion is accompanied by an increase in serum gastrin concentration. Seven dogs with a gastric fistula and a duodenal fistula prepared so as to allow perfusion into the duodenum without reflux into the stomach were used. Gastric secretion and blood samples for serum gastrin determination were collected during intestinal perfusion with either 0.15 M NaCl or 5% liver extract at 200 ml hr(-1) for 2 hr. The mean +/- SE gastric acid secretory response during the second hour of perfusion with 0.15 M NaCl was 3.1 +/- 1.0% of the maximal acid output (MAO) to histamine, significantly (P less than 0.05) greater than the control value with no intestinal perfusion (0.18 +/- 0.07%). The mean +/- SE response during the second hour of perfusion with 5% liver extract was 7.4 +/- 2.2% of MAO, significantly (P less than 0.05) greater than both control and NaCl perfusion values. There was no significant change in peripheral serum gastrin concentration during the response to perfusion with either NaCl or liver extract. We conclude that, under the conditions of the present study, the intestinal phase of gastric acid secretion was not accompanied by an increase in serum gastrin concentration.", "PMID": 447024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7864", "title": "Structure of bile acids associated with secretion in the rat cecum.", "content": "An isolated in vivo rat cecal loop technique was utilized to determine what structure of bile acids is required to stimulate net colonic secretion of water and sodium. A dose response curve for water and sodium movement was determined for deoxycholic acid (1-6 mM) and chenodeoxycholic acid (3-6 mM). Both of these bile acids were associated with significant secretion of water and sodium at 4 mM concentration. Therefore, this concentration was used for all test bile acids studied. Test solutions included the tri- and di-substituted bile acids: cholic acid, hyocholic acid, 3 alpha, 7 beta, 12 alpha-trihydroxycholanic acid, 3 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxy-7-ketocholanic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, 3 alpha-hydroxy-7-ketocholanic acid, 7 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxycholanic acid, and hyodeoxycholic acid. Only three bile acids, deoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, and 7 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxycholanic acid were associated with net secretion of water and sodium. Cecal histology after incubation with bile acids revealed mucosal alterations in those sacs in which secretion occurred, but not where absorption was noted. These data indicate that bile acid-associated water and sodium secretion in the rat cecum requires a specific bile acid structure with a definite spatial relationship of the hydroxyl groups. Secretion occurred only with two alpha-hydroxyl groups in either the 3, 7, or 12 positions.", "contents": "Structure of bile acids associated with secretion in the rat cecum. An isolated in vivo rat cecal loop technique was utilized to determine what structure of bile acids is required to stimulate net colonic secretion of water and sodium. A dose response curve for water and sodium movement was determined for deoxycholic acid (1-6 mM) and chenodeoxycholic acid (3-6 mM). Both of these bile acids were associated with significant secretion of water and sodium at 4 mM concentration. Therefore, this concentration was used for all test bile acids studied. Test solutions included the tri- and di-substituted bile acids: cholic acid, hyocholic acid, 3 alpha, 7 beta, 12 alpha-trihydroxycholanic acid, 3 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxy-7-ketocholanic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, 3 alpha-hydroxy-7-ketocholanic acid, 7 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxycholanic acid, and hyodeoxycholic acid. Only three bile acids, deoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, and 7 alpha, 12 alpha-dihydroxycholanic acid were associated with net secretion of water and sodium. Cecal histology after incubation with bile acids revealed mucosal alterations in those sacs in which secretion occurred, but not where absorption was noted. These data indicate that bile acid-associated water and sodium secretion in the rat cecum requires a specific bile acid structure with a definite spatial relationship of the hydroxyl groups. Secretion occurred only with two alpha-hydroxyl groups in either the 3, 7, or 12 positions.", "PMID": 447025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7865", "title": "Elastic properties of the rectal wall in normal adults and in the patients with ulcerative colitis.", "content": "The elastic properties of the rectal wall have been studied in 16 normal adults (group I) and in 24 patients with ulcerative colitis, during a nonactive (13 cases, group II) or an active period (11 cases, group III). The rectal intraluminal pressures after accommodation to the distension were significantly higher in group III than in groups I and II. These pressures were not related to distending volumes in groups I and II but were correlated with the distending volumes in group III. The rectal elasticity coefficient was significantly greater in group III than in the other two groups. There was an inverse correlation between the rectal elasticity coefficient and the rectal area. These results suggest a loss of the rectal distensibility in active colitis.", "contents": "Elastic properties of the rectal wall in normal adults and in the patients with ulcerative colitis. The elastic properties of the rectal wall have been studied in 16 normal adults (group I) and in 24 patients with ulcerative colitis, during a nonactive (13 cases, group II) or an active period (11 cases, group III). The rectal intraluminal pressures after accommodation to the distension were significantly higher in group III than in groups I and II. These pressures were not related to distending volumes in groups I and II but were correlated with the distending volumes in group III. The rectal elasticity coefficient was significantly greater in group III than in the other two groups. There was an inverse correlation between the rectal elasticity coefficient and the rectal area. These results suggest a loss of the rectal distensibility in active colitis.", "PMID": 447026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7866", "title": "Tertiary esophageal contractions evoked by acoustical stimuli.", "content": "\"Spontaneous\" tertiary esophageal contractions occur in a high proportion of healthy subjects. This study was carried out to investigate whether such contractions can be elicited by acoustical stimuli, to determine the threshold intensity at which contractions occur, and to find out how many of a sequence of equiintense tones at such a threshold intensity evoke contractile responses. Esophageal pressures were recorded 5, 10, and 15 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter, and swallowing was recorded by an electromyogram of the mylo-hyoid muscles. The results are summarized as follows: (a) All of 22 subjects exposed to 1000 Hz tones of intensities between 70 and 125 dBA responded with teritary contractions; their mean threshold intensity was 86.8 dBA +/- 3.0 SEM. Intensities that were 5 to 20 dBA higher were necessary to evoke contractions also in response to a second tone of a given intensity. (b) In 36 to 40 subjects exposed to 40 1000 Hz, 90 dBA tones tertiary contractions occurred in response to 47.2% of stimuli presented. (c) On repetitive stimulation, there was a significant decrease in number and amplitude of esophageal responses with an increasing number of stimuli. It is concluded that the esophagus takes part in the response system of the healthy organism to environmental stimuli.", "contents": "Tertiary esophageal contractions evoked by acoustical stimuli. \"Spontaneous\" tertiary esophageal contractions occur in a high proportion of healthy subjects. This study was carried out to investigate whether such contractions can be elicited by acoustical stimuli, to determine the threshold intensity at which contractions occur, and to find out how many of a sequence of equiintense tones at such a threshold intensity evoke contractile responses. Esophageal pressures were recorded 5, 10, and 15 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter, and swallowing was recorded by an electromyogram of the mylo-hyoid muscles. The results are summarized as follows: (a) All of 22 subjects exposed to 1000 Hz tones of intensities between 70 and 125 dBA responded with teritary contractions; their mean threshold intensity was 86.8 dBA +/- 3.0 SEM. Intensities that were 5 to 20 dBA higher were necessary to evoke contractions also in response to a second tone of a given intensity. (b) In 36 to 40 subjects exposed to 40 1000 Hz, 90 dBA tones tertiary contractions occurred in response to 47.2% of stimuli presented. (c) On repetitive stimulation, there was a significant decrease in number and amplitude of esophageal responses with an increasing number of stimuli. It is concluded that the esophagus takes part in the response system of the healthy organism to environmental stimuli.", "PMID": 447027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7867", "title": "Hepatic and pulmonary clearance of exogenous vasoactive intestinal peptide in the rat.", "content": "1125-labeled vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has been injected into the portal and systemic circulations of rats in an attempt to identify the distribution and fate of the circulating peptide. When VIP I125 was introduced into the portal circulation radioactivity was concentrated in the liver (415.5% +/- 57.2 at 10 min--counts per minute (cpm) per gram of tissue as percentage cpm per milliliter of plasma). Radioactivity in kidney and lung was 346.6% +/- 37.4 and 136.4% +/- 11.4, respectively. In contrast, if the liver was bypassed by performing a portacaval shunt or by injecting into the inferior vena cava, radioactivity was maximal in the lung (2,454.3% +/- 302.3 10 min after IVC injection) with activity in the liver of only 89.3% +/- 10.6. Analysis of the pattern of radioactivity in plasma and tissue extracts by gel filtration chromatography showed the presence of a number of fragments of smaller molecular weight than VIP with a progressive diminution of the amount of VIP-like radioactivity. Both liver and lung have the capacity to concentrate VIP from the circulation. Vasoactive intestinal peptide released into the portal circulation is probably taken up initially by the liver, and this may prevent subsequent uptake by pulmonary tissue. There is some evidence to suggest that the liver and the lung may handle VIP in different ways. If this is so, the enhanced pulmonary extraction of VIP when the liver is bypassed may have some significance for the cardiovascular complications of fulminant liver failure.", "contents": "Hepatic and pulmonary clearance of exogenous vasoactive intestinal peptide in the rat. 1125-labeled vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has been injected into the portal and systemic circulations of rats in an attempt to identify the distribution and fate of the circulating peptide. When VIP I125 was introduced into the portal circulation radioactivity was concentrated in the liver (415.5% +/- 57.2 at 10 min--counts per minute (cpm) per gram of tissue as percentage cpm per milliliter of plasma). Radioactivity in kidney and lung was 346.6% +/- 37.4 and 136.4% +/- 11.4, respectively. In contrast, if the liver was bypassed by performing a portacaval shunt or by injecting into the inferior vena cava, radioactivity was maximal in the lung (2,454.3% +/- 302.3 10 min after IVC injection) with activity in the liver of only 89.3% +/- 10.6. Analysis of the pattern of radioactivity in plasma and tissue extracts by gel filtration chromatography showed the presence of a number of fragments of smaller molecular weight than VIP with a progressive diminution of the amount of VIP-like radioactivity. Both liver and lung have the capacity to concentrate VIP from the circulation. Vasoactive intestinal peptide released into the portal circulation is probably taken up initially by the liver, and this may prevent subsequent uptake by pulmonary tissue. There is some evidence to suggest that the liver and the lung may handle VIP in different ways. If this is so, the enhanced pulmonary extraction of VIP when the liver is bypassed may have some significance for the cardiovascular complications of fulminant liver failure.", "PMID": 447028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7868", "title": "Amylase to creatine clearance ratio in renal diseases.", "content": "In order to assess to what extent glomerular or tubular function is involved in the renal handling of amylase and the lysozyme to creatine clearance ratios (CAm/CCr and CLys/CCr) were evaluated in 22 healthy volunteers and in 71 patients with different renal diseases. In normal controls, the mean CAm/CCr was 2.55 +/-1.54 SD, with an upper normal limit of 5.56. A normal ratio was found in patients with glomerulonephritis, with or without a nephrotic syndrome, and in patients with pyelonephritis. A significantly elevated ratio (P less than 0.001) was instead found in patients with uremia and in patients with uremia and in patients with either chronic or acute tubular damage. The CLus/CCr ratio was elevated in all the groups, except in patients with glomerulonephritis and minimal proteinuria. These results show that in humans, as in animals, the amylase filtered load undergoes partial tubular reabsorption. In renal diseases, an increase of the CAm/CCr is caused by either a marked reduction of functioning nephrons or a severe tubular damage, while the glomerular permeability does not seem to be involved. Some other mechanism is probably involved in the elevation of the CAm/CCr during acute pancreatitis.", "contents": "Amylase to creatine clearance ratio in renal diseases. In order to assess to what extent glomerular or tubular function is involved in the renal handling of amylase and the lysozyme to creatine clearance ratios (CAm/CCr and CLys/CCr) were evaluated in 22 healthy volunteers and in 71 patients with different renal diseases. In normal controls, the mean CAm/CCr was 2.55 +/-1.54 SD, with an upper normal limit of 5.56. A normal ratio was found in patients with glomerulonephritis, with or without a nephrotic syndrome, and in patients with pyelonephritis. A significantly elevated ratio (P less than 0.001) was instead found in patients with uremia and in patients with uremia and in patients with either chronic or acute tubular damage. The CLus/CCr ratio was elevated in all the groups, except in patients with glomerulonephritis and minimal proteinuria. These results show that in humans, as in animals, the amylase filtered load undergoes partial tubular reabsorption. In renal diseases, an increase of the CAm/CCr is caused by either a marked reduction of functioning nephrons or a severe tubular damage, while the glomerular permeability does not seem to be involved. Some other mechanism is probably involved in the elevation of the CAm/CCr during acute pancreatitis.", "PMID": 447031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7869", "title": "Effect of ninety-five percent pure cholecystokinin on gastrin-stimulated acid secretion in man and dog.", "content": "In 5 human subjects, 95% pure cholecystokinin (CCK) given as a background infusion in doses of 42, 84, or 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 did not significantly alter acid secretion in response to graded doses (11-300 pmol kg-1 h-1) of synthetic human gastrin-17-I. The 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 dose of CCK produced maximal pancreatic amylase output. In 3 subjects, 337 pmol kg-1 h-1 of CCK slightly stimulated acid secretion when given alone and tended to reduce acid secretion in response to gastrin, but each of the subjects experienced cramping abdominal pain. The increment in acid secretion produced by CCK alone was similar to that produced by maximally effective doses of carboxyl-terminal octapeptide of CCK. In dogs with gastric and pancreatic fistulas, 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 of CCK produced maximal pancreatic protein output and slightly stimulated gastric acid secretion. In dogs with gastric fistulas and Heidenhain pouches, the lowest dose of CCK that inhibited gastrin-stimulated acid secretion was 674 pmol kg-1 h-1. We conclude that in man and dog 95% pure CCK weakly stimulates gastric acid secretion and inhibits gastrin-stimulated acid secretion but these actions occur only with doses of CCK that are maximal or supramaximal for pancreatic enzyme secretion. Because of the high dose requirement, these effects are unlikely to be physiologically significant.", "contents": "Effect of ninety-five percent pure cholecystokinin on gastrin-stimulated acid secretion in man and dog. In 5 human subjects, 95% pure cholecystokinin (CCK) given as a background infusion in doses of 42, 84, or 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 did not significantly alter acid secretion in response to graded doses (11-300 pmol kg-1 h-1) of synthetic human gastrin-17-I. The 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 dose of CCK produced maximal pancreatic amylase output. In 3 subjects, 337 pmol kg-1 h-1 of CCK slightly stimulated acid secretion when given alone and tended to reduce acid secretion in response to gastrin, but each of the subjects experienced cramping abdominal pain. The increment in acid secretion produced by CCK alone was similar to that produced by maximally effective doses of carboxyl-terminal octapeptide of CCK. In dogs with gastric and pancreatic fistulas, 168 pmol kg-1 h-1 of CCK produced maximal pancreatic protein output and slightly stimulated gastric acid secretion. In dogs with gastric fistulas and Heidenhain pouches, the lowest dose of CCK that inhibited gastrin-stimulated acid secretion was 674 pmol kg-1 h-1. We conclude that in man and dog 95% pure CCK weakly stimulates gastric acid secretion and inhibits gastrin-stimulated acid secretion but these actions occur only with doses of CCK that are maximal or supramaximal for pancreatic enzyme secretion. Because of the high dose requirement, these effects are unlikely to be physiologically significant.", "PMID": 447032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7870", "title": "Enhanced bioavailability and decreased clearance of analgesics in patients with cirrhosis.", "content": "The effect of moderate cirrhosis on the bioavailability and systemic clearance of three model analgesic compounds (pethidine, pentazocine, and salicylamide) with substantial first-pass metabolism was examined in 8 cirrhotic subjects and 4 agematched healthy controls. There was a 46% decrease in the clearance of pentazocine and a 278% increase in bioavailability. The corresponding figures for pethidine were 36% and 81%. The area under the plasma curve after oral salicylamide was increased by 551% in cirrhotic subjects compared with controls. This study demonstrated that drugs with the highest hepatic clearance will have the largest relative increases in bioavailability in cirrhotic patients due to portosystemic shunting. The decrease in clearance and increase in bioavailability will have multiplicative, rather than simply additive, effects on total area under the curve and, if related, pharmacologic response.", "contents": "Enhanced bioavailability and decreased clearance of analgesics in patients with cirrhosis. The effect of moderate cirrhosis on the bioavailability and systemic clearance of three model analgesic compounds (pethidine, pentazocine, and salicylamide) with substantial first-pass metabolism was examined in 8 cirrhotic subjects and 4 agematched healthy controls. There was a 46% decrease in the clearance of pentazocine and a 278% increase in bioavailability. The corresponding figures for pethidine were 36% and 81%. The area under the plasma curve after oral salicylamide was increased by 551% in cirrhotic subjects compared with controls. This study demonstrated that drugs with the highest hepatic clearance will have the largest relative increases in bioavailability in cirrhotic patients due to portosystemic shunting. The decrease in clearance and increase in bioavailability will have multiplicative, rather than simply additive, effects on total area under the curve and, if related, pharmacologic response.", "PMID": 447033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7871", "title": "Effect of indomethacin and prostaglandin A1 on renal function and plasma renin activity in alcoholic liver disease.", "content": "Renal function is known to be abnormal in patients with cirrhosis. Diminished cortical blood flow due to active renal vasoconstriction is present. Renal prostaglandins, potent vasodilators, could be released by the kidney in an attempt to maintain renal blood flow. This possibility was investigated by measuring the effect of indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase, in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Administration of indomethacin reduced the effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) and creatinine clearance by 23% and 19%, respectively (P less than 0.001), and increased serum creatinine by 29% (P less than 0.001). The response to indomethacin was variable (fall in ERPF (+)7.8% to (-)67%), but was greatest in patients with ascites. Eighty percent of ascitic patients had a greater than 15% fall in ERPF after administration of indomethacin compared with 20% of nonascitic patients (P less than 0.025). An infusion of prostaglandin A1 in 13 patients corrected the decrease in ERPF and creatinine clearance that had followed the administration of indomethacin. The administration of indomethacin caused a significant fall in plasma renin activity, 8.2 +/- 2.5 to 3.6 +/- 1.4 ng/ml/hr (P less than 0.025). The fall in plasma renin activity occurred when ERPF was depressed maximally, suggesting that endogenous prostaglandins exert more control over renin release than does ERPF. Prostaglandins appear to be an important factor in maintaining renal blood flow in patients with cirrhosis and sodium retention.", "contents": "Effect of indomethacin and prostaglandin A1 on renal function and plasma renin activity in alcoholic liver disease. Renal function is known to be abnormal in patients with cirrhosis. Diminished cortical blood flow due to active renal vasoconstriction is present. Renal prostaglandins, potent vasodilators, could be released by the kidney in an attempt to maintain renal blood flow. This possibility was investigated by measuring the effect of indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase, in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Administration of indomethacin reduced the effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) and creatinine clearance by 23% and 19%, respectively (P less than 0.001), and increased serum creatinine by 29% (P less than 0.001). The response to indomethacin was variable (fall in ERPF (+)7.8% to (-)67%), but was greatest in patients with ascites. Eighty percent of ascitic patients had a greater than 15% fall in ERPF after administration of indomethacin compared with 20% of nonascitic patients (P less than 0.025). An infusion of prostaglandin A1 in 13 patients corrected the decrease in ERPF and creatinine clearance that had followed the administration of indomethacin. The administration of indomethacin caused a significant fall in plasma renin activity, 8.2 +/- 2.5 to 3.6 +/- 1.4 ng/ml/hr (P less than 0.025). The fall in plasma renin activity occurred when ERPF was depressed maximally, suggesting that endogenous prostaglandins exert more control over renin release than does ERPF. Prostaglandins appear to be an important factor in maintaining renal blood flow in patients with cirrhosis and sodium retention.", "PMID": 447034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7872", "title": "The effect of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) on cholesterol absorption.", "content": "The effect of administration of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) on cholesterol absorption has been investigated in 11 volunteers. Five hundred milligrams of cholesterol 5 muCi of C14 cholesterol, and 10 muCi of H3 sitosterol (as a nonabsorbable marker) were given with a standard meal. Feces were collected for 6 days and cholesterol absorption was estimated from the recovered C14 radioactivity. The study was repeated after 20 days of treatment with CDCA. Cholesterol saturation of bile and biliary bile acid composition were also studied. Percent CDCA in bile was 40.5 +/- 14.0 SDM before treatment and rose to 75.3 +/- 5.7 after treatment. Saturation index fell from 1.08 +/- 0.31 to 0.71 +/- 0.19. Cholesterol absorption was 33.2 +/- 11.0% of the administered dose in basal conditions and decreased to 14.9 +/- 9.7% after treatment (P less than 0.01). In all but 1 subject, CDCA administration was associated with a decreased intestinal transit time. In conclusion, in doses effective to desaturate bile, CDCA seems to decrease dietary cholesterol absorption. This effect could contribute to the desaturation of bile observed during treatment with this bile acid for dissolving gallstones.", "contents": "The effect of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) on cholesterol absorption. The effect of administration of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) on cholesterol absorption has been investigated in 11 volunteers. Five hundred milligrams of cholesterol 5 muCi of C14 cholesterol, and 10 muCi of H3 sitosterol (as a nonabsorbable marker) were given with a standard meal. Feces were collected for 6 days and cholesterol absorption was estimated from the recovered C14 radioactivity. The study was repeated after 20 days of treatment with CDCA. Cholesterol saturation of bile and biliary bile acid composition were also studied. Percent CDCA in bile was 40.5 +/- 14.0 SDM before treatment and rose to 75.3 +/- 5.7 after treatment. Saturation index fell from 1.08 +/- 0.31 to 0.71 +/- 0.19. Cholesterol absorption was 33.2 +/- 11.0% of the administered dose in basal conditions and decreased to 14.9 +/- 9.7% after treatment (P less than 0.01). In all but 1 subject, CDCA administration was associated with a decreased intestinal transit time. In conclusion, in doses effective to desaturate bile, CDCA seems to decrease dietary cholesterol absorption. This effect could contribute to the desaturation of bile observed during treatment with this bile acid for dissolving gallstones.", "PMID": 447035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7873", "title": "Hyperammonemic coma after hepatectomy in germ-free rats.", "content": "Current theories on the pathogenesis of hepatic coma indicate that intestinal bacteria produce cerebral toxins, such as ammonia, mercaptans, and short-chain fatty acids. To test the hypothesis that elimination of anaerobic and aerobic intestinal bacteria retards the onset and alters the biochemical profile of acute hepatic coma, we determined the onset of coma and the ammonia concentration in blood and cecal contents in 7 germ-free and 10 normal dehepatized rats. Ammonia levels were also determined in a further group of 7 germ-free and 12 normal rats 24 hr after hepatic vascular exclusion was accomplished. Onset of coma for germ-free rats (x: 34 hr) was identical to that of normal rats (x: 36 hr). Arterial ammonia was equally elevated in germ-free rats (x: 834 mumol/liter) and in normal rats (x: 854 mumol/liter), although the ammonia concentration in the cecal contents was significantly lower in germ-free rats (x: 1762 mumol/liter) than in normal rats (x: 5572 mumol/liter). In germ-free animals, portal venous blood contained more ammonia than arterial blood (x A-V difference: -87 mumol/liter), indicating nonbacterial intestinal ammonia release. We conclude that intestinal bacteria toxins are of minor importance in the mechanism of acute hepatic coma of the liverless rat and that presumably bacterial toxins, such as ammonia, can be products of nonbacterial metabolism. Since hyperammonemia could be considered an important determinant of coma in our model, prevention of hyperammonemia in functionally anhepatic animals should be the next objective in unraveling the pathogenesis of acute hepatic coma.", "contents": "Hyperammonemic coma after hepatectomy in germ-free rats. Current theories on the pathogenesis of hepatic coma indicate that intestinal bacteria produce cerebral toxins, such as ammonia, mercaptans, and short-chain fatty acids. To test the hypothesis that elimination of anaerobic and aerobic intestinal bacteria retards the onset and alters the biochemical profile of acute hepatic coma, we determined the onset of coma and the ammonia concentration in blood and cecal contents in 7 germ-free and 10 normal dehepatized rats. Ammonia levels were also determined in a further group of 7 germ-free and 12 normal rats 24 hr after hepatic vascular exclusion was accomplished. Onset of coma for germ-free rats (x: 34 hr) was identical to that of normal rats (x: 36 hr). Arterial ammonia was equally elevated in germ-free rats (x: 834 mumol/liter) and in normal rats (x: 854 mumol/liter), although the ammonia concentration in the cecal contents was significantly lower in germ-free rats (x: 1762 mumol/liter) than in normal rats (x: 5572 mumol/liter). In germ-free animals, portal venous blood contained more ammonia than arterial blood (x A-V difference: -87 mumol/liter), indicating nonbacterial intestinal ammonia release. We conclude that intestinal bacteria toxins are of minor importance in the mechanism of acute hepatic coma of the liverless rat and that presumably bacterial toxins, such as ammonia, can be products of nonbacterial metabolism. Since hyperammonemia could be considered an important determinant of coma in our model, prevention of hyperammonemia in functionally anhepatic animals should be the next objective in unraveling the pathogenesis of acute hepatic coma.", "PMID": 447036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7874", "title": "The renal and hemodynamic effects of the peritoneovenous shunt for intractable hepatic ascites.", "content": "Fifteen patients with chronic liver disease having a peritoneovenous shunt for chronic intractable ascites were studied prospectively for renal function and hemodynamic changes during balance studies, pre-, peri-, and postoperatively. Shunt insertion caused a rapid redistribution of ascites into the intravascular compartment with hemodilution and significant rises in cardiac output (9 patients) (P less than 0.025) renal blood flow (3 patients) (P less than 0.025), and creatinine clearance (15 patients) (P less than 0.005), and decreases in plasma renin activity (10 patients) and serum aldosterone levels (9 patients) (P less than 0.025). Despite these changes, small repeated doses of furosemide were required to start and maintain a diuresis and natriuresis with sodium excretion rising from 7.2 +/- 4.1 to 174 +/- 44 meq/day (P less than 0.0005) in the 15 patients. At 2 wk postoperatively, the 15 patients had lost a mean of 7.5 kg in weight associated with a persistent improvement in creatinine clearance and a continued natriuresis, 15.9 +/- 7 mEq/day (P less than 0.005), despite no statistically significant change in cardiac output (7 patients) or renal blood flow (4 patients) compared with preoperative levels. This operation is an effective therapy for refractive ascites, but the incidence of potentially fatal complications makes us hesitate to recommend it except for patients resistant to normal conservative measures.", "contents": "The renal and hemodynamic effects of the peritoneovenous shunt for intractable hepatic ascites. Fifteen patients with chronic liver disease having a peritoneovenous shunt for chronic intractable ascites were studied prospectively for renal function and hemodynamic changes during balance studies, pre-, peri-, and postoperatively. Shunt insertion caused a rapid redistribution of ascites into the intravascular compartment with hemodilution and significant rises in cardiac output (9 patients) (P less than 0.025) renal blood flow (3 patients) (P less than 0.025), and creatinine clearance (15 patients) (P less than 0.005), and decreases in plasma renin activity (10 patients) and serum aldosterone levels (9 patients) (P less than 0.025). Despite these changes, small repeated doses of furosemide were required to start and maintain a diuresis and natriuresis with sodium excretion rising from 7.2 +/- 4.1 to 174 +/- 44 meq/day (P less than 0.0005) in the 15 patients. At 2 wk postoperatively, the 15 patients had lost a mean of 7.5 kg in weight associated with a persistent improvement in creatinine clearance and a continued natriuresis, 15.9 +/- 7 mEq/day (P less than 0.005), despite no statistically significant change in cardiac output (7 patients) or renal blood flow (4 patients) compared with preoperative levels. This operation is an effective therapy for refractive ascites, but the incidence of potentially fatal complications makes us hesitate to recommend it except for patients resistant to normal conservative measures.", "PMID": 447039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7875", "title": "Ultrasonic properties of gallstones. Effect of stone size and composition.", "content": "In vivo and in vitro ultrasonic characteristics of gallstones were compared with stone size and composition with the aim of understanding the basis for these features. In vivo and in vitro ultrasonic features of the same stone were identical. Acoustic shadowing was not due to stone type, radiodensity, or calcium content. However, all stones larger than 4 mm in diameter produced a distinct sonic shadow. Gallbladder sludge produced internal echoes without a sonic shadow. These echoes shifted slowly when the patient was reexamined in a different position. Four of seven cholesterol stones containing more than 88% cholesterol floated and produced a sonic shadow without internal echoes or with an area of internal echoes within the gallbladder at a distance from the posterior wall. This last feature may identify patients that are good candidates for a trial of gallstone dissolution with chenodeoxycholic acid.", "contents": "Ultrasonic properties of gallstones. Effect of stone size and composition. In vivo and in vitro ultrasonic characteristics of gallstones were compared with stone size and composition with the aim of understanding the basis for these features. In vivo and in vitro ultrasonic features of the same stone were identical. Acoustic shadowing was not due to stone type, radiodensity, or calcium content. However, all stones larger than 4 mm in diameter produced a distinct sonic shadow. Gallbladder sludge produced internal echoes without a sonic shadow. These echoes shifted slowly when the patient was reexamined in a different position. Four of seven cholesterol stones containing more than 88% cholesterol floated and produced a sonic shadow without internal echoes or with an area of internal echoes within the gallbladder at a distance from the posterior wall. This last feature may identify patients that are good candidates for a trial of gallstone dissolution with chenodeoxycholic acid.", "PMID": 447040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7876", "title": "Reduced intraluminal bile acid concentrations and fat maldigestion in pancreatic insufficiency: correction by treatment.", "content": "Malabsorption of bile acids is known to occur in patients with pancreatic insufficiency particularly when due to cystic fibrosis. Abnormal biliary secretion or intraluminal acidic precipitation of bile acids could contribute to the steatorrhea of pancreatic insufficiency. To measure bile acid outputs and duodenal concentrations of bile salts and lipids simultaneously, we performed intestinal intubation and perfusion studies during feeding of a solid test meal in 6 healthy controls and 8 adult patients with advanced acquired exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. The effects of various treatment regimens were also investigated. Postprandial bile acid secretion was similar in all treatment groups. However, significant (P less than 0.05) reductions in micellar concentrations of bile acids and fatty acids were observed in untreated pancreatic insufficiency. These abnormalities were directly related to pH-induced precipitation of bile acids and were corrected only by the addition of cimetidine to standard pancreatin therapy. Thus, in pancreatic insufficiency, treatment with pancreatin plus cimetidine enhances fat digestion and absorption by reducing both acid-peptic inactivation of lipase and acidic precipitation of bile acids.", "contents": "Reduced intraluminal bile acid concentrations and fat maldigestion in pancreatic insufficiency: correction by treatment. Malabsorption of bile acids is known to occur in patients with pancreatic insufficiency particularly when due to cystic fibrosis. Abnormal biliary secretion or intraluminal acidic precipitation of bile acids could contribute to the steatorrhea of pancreatic insufficiency. To measure bile acid outputs and duodenal concentrations of bile salts and lipids simultaneously, we performed intestinal intubation and perfusion studies during feeding of a solid test meal in 6 healthy controls and 8 adult patients with advanced acquired exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. The effects of various treatment regimens were also investigated. Postprandial bile acid secretion was similar in all treatment groups. However, significant (P less than 0.05) reductions in micellar concentrations of bile acids and fatty acids were observed in untreated pancreatic insufficiency. These abnormalities were directly related to pH-induced precipitation of bile acids and were corrected only by the addition of cimetidine to standard pancreatin therapy. Thus, in pancreatic insufficiency, treatment with pancreatin plus cimetidine enhances fat digestion and absorption by reducing both acid-peptic inactivation of lipase and acidic precipitation of bile acids.", "PMID": 447041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7877", "title": "Cancer in universal and left-sided ulcerative colitis: factors determining risk.", "content": "A retrospective study of 267 patients with ulcerative colitis admitted to The Mount Sinai Hospital during the period 1960--1976 revealed 26 (9.7%) with adenocarcinoma of the colon. Twenty-one cases of colorectal cancer were observed among 158 patients with universal colitis (13%), and 5 occurred among 109 patients with left-sided disease (5%). Patients with left-sided disease tended to develop cancer at least a decade later than patients with universal disease. The median duration from onset of colitis to diagnosis of cancer was 20 yr for those with universal colitis, and 32 yr for those with left-sided colitis. The decade incidence of colorectal carcinoma increased from 0.4% in the first decade to 7.4% in the second, 15.9% in the third, and 52.6% in the fourth decade of follow-up. The estimated cumulative probability of developing cancer reached 34% at 30 yr and 64% at 40 yr. Cancer risk was positively correlated with duration and anatomic extent of colitis, but did not appear to be increased by early age at onset of disease.", "contents": "Cancer in universal and left-sided ulcerative colitis: factors determining risk. A retrospective study of 267 patients with ulcerative colitis admitted to The Mount Sinai Hospital during the period 1960--1976 revealed 26 (9.7%) with adenocarcinoma of the colon. Twenty-one cases of colorectal cancer were observed among 158 patients with universal colitis (13%), and 5 occurred among 109 patients with left-sided disease (5%). Patients with left-sided disease tended to develop cancer at least a decade later than patients with universal disease. The median duration from onset of colitis to diagnosis of cancer was 20 yr for those with universal colitis, and 32 yr for those with left-sided colitis. The decade incidence of colorectal carcinoma increased from 0.4% in the first decade to 7.4% in the second, 15.9% in the third, and 52.6% in the fourth decade of follow-up. The estimated cumulative probability of developing cancer reached 34% at 30 yr and 64% at 40 yr. Cancer risk was positively correlated with duration and anatomic extent of colitis, but did not appear to be increased by early age at onset of disease.", "PMID": 447042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7878", "title": "Antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis with negative proctosigmoidoscopy examination.", "content": "Most investigators have stressed that the diagnosis of antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis is made by proctosigmoidoscopic examination. In our investigation, 6 patients with tissue culture evidence of a clostridial toxin in stools and either normal or only edematous rectal mucosa were studied with total colonoscopy. Five of six patients demonstrated pseudomembranes located in various areas of the colon at a time when the rectosigmoid area was uninvolved. This demonstrates the occurrence of antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis which can be missed by routine proctosigmoidoscopy. The incidence of rectal sparing in this disease remains undetermined. Further investigation to determine the occurrence of antibiotic colitis, response to different treatments, or sensitivity of tissue culture assays as a diagnostic aid in antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis must take this subgroup into account.", "contents": "Antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis with negative proctosigmoidoscopy examination. Most investigators have stressed that the diagnosis of antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis is made by proctosigmoidoscopic examination. In our investigation, 6 patients with tissue culture evidence of a clostridial toxin in stools and either normal or only edematous rectal mucosa were studied with total colonoscopy. Five of six patients demonstrated pseudomembranes located in various areas of the colon at a time when the rectosigmoid area was uninvolved. This demonstrates the occurrence of antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis which can be missed by routine proctosigmoidoscopy. The incidence of rectal sparing in this disease remains undetermined. Further investigation to determine the occurrence of antibiotic colitis, response to different treatments, or sensitivity of tissue culture assays as a diagnostic aid in antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis must take this subgroup into account.", "PMID": 447043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7879", "title": "Effects of water-immersion stress on gastric secretion and mucosal blood flow in rats.", "content": "The correlation between acid secretion and mucosal blood flow in the rat stomach during stress loading was determined to provide clues to the etiology of the gastric ulceration which thus occurs. The gastric acid output was increased remarkably by water-immersion stress at 23 degrees C, and this increase lasted while the stress was given, yet the mucosal blood flow did not show a corresponding increase. In rats stressed for 3 hr, ulcerative changes were observed in the glandular portion of the stomach. The stress-induced increase in acid output correlated well with the severity of erosions. Pretreatment of animals with atropine 10 microgram/kg, given subcutaneously, or vagotomy, inhibited the increase in acid output and also inhibited the ulcer formation caused by the stress: however, the mucosal blood flow in these animals decreased significantly. These results suggest that when there is an elevation of gastric acid secretion with no parallel increase in mucosal blood flow, gastric ulceration may occur under conditions of stress.", "contents": "Effects of water-immersion stress on gastric secretion and mucosal blood flow in rats. The correlation between acid secretion and mucosal blood flow in the rat stomach during stress loading was determined to provide clues to the etiology of the gastric ulceration which thus occurs. The gastric acid output was increased remarkably by water-immersion stress at 23 degrees C, and this increase lasted while the stress was given, yet the mucosal blood flow did not show a corresponding increase. In rats stressed for 3 hr, ulcerative changes were observed in the glandular portion of the stomach. The stress-induced increase in acid output correlated well with the severity of erosions. Pretreatment of animals with atropine 10 microgram/kg, given subcutaneously, or vagotomy, inhibited the increase in acid output and also inhibited the ulcer formation caused by the stress: however, the mucosal blood flow in these animals decreased significantly. These results suggest that when there is an elevation of gastric acid secretion with no parallel increase in mucosal blood flow, gastric ulceration may occur under conditions of stress.", "PMID": 447044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7880", "title": "Increased resistance of the gastric mucosal barrier to barrier breakers in the rat.", "content": "The effects of two exposures of the gastric mucosa to either 10 mM taurocholic acid (TcA) or 20% ethanol, both in 150 mM HCl, on transmucosal potential difference (PD) and net fluxes of H+, Na+, and K+ ions have been tested in the rat. The interval between exposures was 30 min. The results demonstrated that the first exposure of the gastric mucosa, either to TcA or to ethanol, reduced the net fluxes of H+, Na+, K+ and the change in transmucosal PD induced by the second exposure, indicating an increased resistance of the mucosa to the barrier breaking effects of TcA or ethanol.", "contents": "Increased resistance of the gastric mucosal barrier to barrier breakers in the rat. The effects of two exposures of the gastric mucosa to either 10 mM taurocholic acid (TcA) or 20% ethanol, both in 150 mM HCl, on transmucosal potential difference (PD) and net fluxes of H+, Na+, and K+ ions have been tested in the rat. The interval between exposures was 30 min. The results demonstrated that the first exposure of the gastric mucosa, either to TcA or to ethanol, reduced the net fluxes of H+, Na+, K+ and the change in transmucosal PD induced by the second exposure, indicating an increased resistance of the mucosa to the barrier breaking effects of TcA or ethanol.", "PMID": 447045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7881", "title": "Effect of bilateral cervical vagotomy on balloon-induced lower esophageal sphincter relaxation in the dog.", "content": "A study was performed in dogs to determine whether balloon distension within the striated muscle esophagus induces lower esophageal sphincter relaxation via a local intramural pathway or a central neural pathway. Bilateral vagosympathetic nerve blockade was produced by cooling the nerve trunks isolated in skin loops on either side of the neck. Sphincter pressure was measured before and during intraesophageal balloon distension, with and without nerve blockade. With the vagosympathetic nerves intact, balloon distension produced sphincter relaxation, sphincter shortening, and orad movement of the sphincter. The threshold for these responses increased progressively as distension was applied at more proximal levels. Bilateral vagosympathetic nerve blockade abolished all the lower esophageal sphincter responses to distension at any level within the esophagus, whether or not sphincter pressure was raised by pentagastrin infusion. Therefore, lower esophageal sphincter relaxation induced by distension of the dog striated muscle esophagus requires a central nervous system connection via the vagosympathetic nerve trunks. There is no direct intramural pathway for this responses in the dog.", "contents": "Effect of bilateral cervical vagotomy on balloon-induced lower esophageal sphincter relaxation in the dog. A study was performed in dogs to determine whether balloon distension within the striated muscle esophagus induces lower esophageal sphincter relaxation via a local intramural pathway or a central neural pathway. Bilateral vagosympathetic nerve blockade was produced by cooling the nerve trunks isolated in skin loops on either side of the neck. Sphincter pressure was measured before and during intraesophageal balloon distension, with and without nerve blockade. With the vagosympathetic nerves intact, balloon distension produced sphincter relaxation, sphincter shortening, and orad movement of the sphincter. The threshold for these responses increased progressively as distension was applied at more proximal levels. Bilateral vagosympathetic nerve blockade abolished all the lower esophageal sphincter responses to distension at any level within the esophagus, whether or not sphincter pressure was raised by pentagastrin infusion. Therefore, lower esophageal sphincter relaxation induced by distension of the dog striated muscle esophagus requires a central nervous system connection via the vagosympathetic nerve trunks. There is no direct intramural pathway for this responses in the dog.", "PMID": 447046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7882", "title": "Rectoanal pressures and rectal sensitivity studies in chronic childhood constipation.", "content": "Rectoanal pressures and rectal sensitivity studies were performed in 32 control children and 144 chronically constipated children. The rectoanal inhibitory reflex threshold, the maximal anal resting closure pressure, and the conscious rectal sensitivity threshold were studied in these children. The rectoanal inhibitory reflex threshold was increased in 6.2% of the constipated patients. Anal hypertony (increased maximal anal resting pressure) was found in 46% of the constipated children. Decreased rectal sensitivity (increased conscious sensitivity threshold) was found in 68% of the constipated children. The three parameters were found to be normal in only 13% of the constipated subjects. Thus, it appears that children with chronic constipation who do not have Hirschsprung's disease do have abnormalities at manometry in most cases.", "contents": "Rectoanal pressures and rectal sensitivity studies in chronic childhood constipation. Rectoanal pressures and rectal sensitivity studies were performed in 32 control children and 144 chronically constipated children. The rectoanal inhibitory reflex threshold, the maximal anal resting closure pressure, and the conscious rectal sensitivity threshold were studied in these children. The rectoanal inhibitory reflex threshold was increased in 6.2% of the constipated patients. Anal hypertony (increased maximal anal resting pressure) was found in 46% of the constipated children. Decreased rectal sensitivity (increased conscious sensitivity threshold) was found in 68% of the constipated children. The three parameters were found to be normal in only 13% of the constipated subjects. Thus, it appears that children with chronic constipation who do not have Hirschsprung's disease do have abnormalities at manometry in most cases.", "PMID": 447047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7883", "title": "Expanded linkage map of Vibrio cholerae.", "content": "An expanded linkage map of the Vibrio cholerae classical strain 162 chromosome has been prepared using a variety of new auxotrophic mutants. The chromosome consists of a single, linear linkage group. The map consists of 17 markers, which have been ordered; 20 mutational sites, which are tentatively ordered; five markers (ura-1, ser-2, mal-1, man-1, suc-1), which are linked but unordered; and three mutations (aro-2, cys-2 and cys-6) which showed little or no linkage. A proposal is made to standardize genetic nomenclature in V. cholerae genetic studies.", "contents": "Expanded linkage map of Vibrio cholerae. An expanded linkage map of the Vibrio cholerae classical strain 162 chromosome has been prepared using a variety of new auxotrophic mutants. The chromosome consists of a single, linear linkage group. The map consists of 17 markers, which have been ordered; 20 mutational sites, which are tentatively ordered; five markers (ura-1, ser-2, mal-1, man-1, suc-1), which are linked but unordered; and three mutations (aro-2, cys-2 and cys-6) which showed little or no linkage. A proposal is made to standardize genetic nomenclature in V. cholerae genetic studies.", "PMID": 447068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7884", "title": "Use of two-dimensional electrophoresis to identify and map new mouse genes.", "content": "Cytosol polypeptides from mouse liver have been examined using two-dimensional electrophoresis. About 250 spots were readily discernible. When cytosols from strains BALB/cBy and C57BL/6By were compared eight genetically determined differences were observed. Other strain pairs show comparable numbers of differences. These eight phenotypes were scored in seven recombinant inbred lines derived from the two parental strains, and their strain distribution patterns were compared with previously determined patterns for other genetic markers that differ between the two progenitor strains. Using this information, tentative chromosomes assignments for the genes controlling five of the variant phenotypes have been made, and two of the assignments have been confirmed using congenic resistant strains. These eight genes will be useful reference markers in future crosses designed to map new genes.", "contents": "Use of two-dimensional electrophoresis to identify and map new mouse genes. Cytosol polypeptides from mouse liver have been examined using two-dimensional electrophoresis. About 250 spots were readily discernible. When cytosols from strains BALB/cBy and C57BL/6By were compared eight genetically determined differences were observed. Other strain pairs show comparable numbers of differences. These eight phenotypes were scored in seven recombinant inbred lines derived from the two parental strains, and their strain distribution patterns were compared with previously determined patterns for other genetic markers that differ between the two progenitor strains. Using this information, tentative chromosomes assignments for the genes controlling five of the variant phenotypes have been made, and two of the assignments have been confirmed using congenic resistant strains. These eight genes will be useful reference markers in future crosses designed to map new genes.", "PMID": 447069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7885", "title": "Current concepts in managing TIAs and stroke.", "content": "No permanent neurologic deficit results from a transient ischemic attack, but patients with these episodes are at risk of stroke. Successful treatment depends on identifying the source of the problem--the heart, blood, or vessel wall. However, anticoagulants and antiplatelet agglutinating agents will reduce only the incidence of TIA's, not the incidence of stroke. Prompt vigorous treatment of progressive stroke may avert completed stroke. Heparin is recommended, unless a specific etiologic factor, such as polycythemia or hypertension, is identified.", "contents": "Current concepts in managing TIAs and stroke. No permanent neurologic deficit results from a transient ischemic attack, but patients with these episodes are at risk of stroke. Successful treatment depends on identifying the source of the problem--the heart, blood, or vessel wall. However, anticoagulants and antiplatelet agglutinating agents will reduce only the incidence of TIA's, not the incidence of stroke. Prompt vigorous treatment of progressive stroke may avert completed stroke. Heparin is recommended, unless a specific etiologic factor, such as polycythemia or hypertension, is identified.", "PMID": 447070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7886", "title": "Guard against unpredictable drug responses in the aging.", "content": "Altered and unexpected responses to treatment can be caused by physiologic changes that occur with aging. These changes can affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of drugs. Changes in renal function, body composition, and the gastrointestinal tract are variables influencing a drug's mechanism of action. To avoid therapeutic problems, understanding these variables is essential.", "contents": "Guard against unpredictable drug responses in the aging. Altered and unexpected responses to treatment can be caused by physiologic changes that occur with aging. These changes can affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of drugs. Changes in renal function, body composition, and the gastrointestinal tract are variables influencing a drug's mechanism of action. To avoid therapeutic problems, understanding these variables is essential.", "PMID": 447071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7887", "title": "Tips on prescribing exercise regimens for your older patient.", "content": "A sedentary life style may contribute as much to functional losses in the elderly as the aging process itself. In a series of studies involving over 200 older men and women over a period of 5 years, carefully prescribed exercise resulted in significant physiologic improvement. Healthy older subjects can be trained in relatively the same way as younger people, but the hazards of endurance training are greater. Medical screening, individual assessment of exercise response, and careful progression in training challenge are essential.", "contents": "Tips on prescribing exercise regimens for your older patient. A sedentary life style may contribute as much to functional losses in the elderly as the aging process itself. In a series of studies involving over 200 older men and women over a period of 5 years, carefully prescribed exercise resulted in significant physiologic improvement. Healthy older subjects can be trained in relatively the same way as younger people, but the hazards of endurance training are greater. Medical screening, individual assessment of exercise response, and careful progression in training challenge are essential.", "PMID": 447072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7888", "title": "Helping an aging patient to cope with memory problems.", "content": "Memory loss is often a subjective symptom rather than an objective one. Complaints of poor memory appear to be related to stereotypes of aging and to the presence of depression, rather than to chronic brain disease. Reassuring an elderly person that occasional forgetfulness does not indicate senility, and improving morale in those who are depressed, effectively reduce exaggerated memory concerns.", "contents": "Helping an aging patient to cope with memory problems. Memory loss is often a subjective symptom rather than an objective one. Complaints of poor memory appear to be related to stereotypes of aging and to the presence of depression, rather than to chronic brain disease. Reassuring an elderly person that occasional forgetfulness does not indicate senility, and improving morale in those who are depressed, effectively reduce exaggerated memory concerns.", "PMID": 447073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7889", "title": "When and how to use heparin prophylaxis and treatment.", "content": "Heparin is a naturally occurring anticoagulant drug that combines with anti-thrombin III to inhibit many steps of the coagulation pathway. Clinically, heparin is used in small doses to prevent venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; in large doses, it is the treatment of choice in acute venous thromboembolism. Heparin also is used to treat some acute arterial thromboembolic episodes. Heparin may be given by intermittent intravenous injection or continuous intravenous infusion, usually in doses of approximately 30,000 units per day. Hemorrhage, the main side effect of heparin, appears to be less frequent when therapeutic doses are given by continuous intravenous infusion rather than by intermittent intravenous injection.", "contents": "When and how to use heparin prophylaxis and treatment. Heparin is a naturally occurring anticoagulant drug that combines with anti-thrombin III to inhibit many steps of the coagulation pathway. Clinically, heparin is used in small doses to prevent venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; in large doses, it is the treatment of choice in acute venous thromboembolism. Heparin also is used to treat some acute arterial thromboembolic episodes. Heparin may be given by intermittent intravenous injection or continuous intravenous infusion, usually in doses of approximately 30,000 units per day. Hemorrhage, the main side effect of heparin, appears to be less frequent when therapeutic doses are given by continuous intravenous infusion rather than by intermittent intravenous injection.", "PMID": 447077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7890", "title": "Clinical evaluation of renal lithiasis.", "content": "Determining metabolic activity in urolithiasis may avoid excessive laboratory tests and unnecessary treatment. A simple regimen such as increased oral fluids is often effective therapy in metabolically inactive disease. Most cases of renal lithiasis are idiopathic, but a complete examination and laboratory work-up will usually establish an accurate etiologic diagnosis.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation of renal lithiasis. Determining metabolic activity in urolithiasis may avoid excessive laboratory tests and unnecessary treatment. A simple regimen such as increased oral fluids is often effective therapy in metabolically inactive disease. Most cases of renal lithiasis are idiopathic, but a complete examination and laboratory work-up will usually establish an accurate etiologic diagnosis.", "PMID": 447082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7891", "title": "Guidelines for evaluating and treating hypertension.", "content": "Any patient with elevated blood pressure on at least two occasions should have a hypertensive workup; however, extensive evaluation for a correctable cause of hypertension is seldom necessary unless findings in the history, physical examination, or basic laboratory tests are abnormal. Diuretics are the cornerstone of therapy. If blood pressure does not respond adequately to these agents, a step-care approach with more potent antihypertensives is indicated.", "contents": "Guidelines for evaluating and treating hypertension. Any patient with elevated blood pressure on at least two occasions should have a hypertensive workup; however, extensive evaluation for a correctable cause of hypertension is seldom necessary unless findings in the history, physical examination, or basic laboratory tests are abnormal. Diuretics are the cornerstone of therapy. If blood pressure does not respond adequately to these agents, a step-care approach with more potent antihypertensives is indicated.", "PMID": 447083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7892", "title": "A diagnostic approach to occult blood in the stool.", "content": "Occult blood in the stool may be the first sign of otherwise asymptomatic colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal disease. All patients over 40 should therefore have a rectal examination that includes a Hemoccult slide test. A rational diagnostic plan is essential to identify the source of occult blood in the stool. Most gastrointestinal cancer is operable if diagnosed early, so early detection of these lesions is imperative.", "contents": "A diagnostic approach to occult blood in the stool. Occult blood in the stool may be the first sign of otherwise asymptomatic colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal disease. All patients over 40 should therefore have a rectal examination that includes a Hemoccult slide test. A rational diagnostic plan is essential to identify the source of occult blood in the stool. Most gastrointestinal cancer is operable if diagnosed early, so early detection of these lesions is imperative.", "PMID": 447084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7893", "title": "The painful hip: helping the handicapped cope.", "content": "When seeing a patient with unexplained knee pain, it is imperative to examine and study the hip. Careful examination and maintaining notes on the patient's ability to walk and to perform daily functions will help determine when and if surgical treatment should be advised. Early consultation with an orthopedic surgeon will frequently be useful in determining whether an intertrochanteric osteotomy of the femur, a resurfacing operation of the hip, or a total hip replacement is indicated. From the orthopedist's point of view, it would be preferable to see the patient when at least 70 degrees of flexion is present. Although intertrochanteric osteotomy is rarely performed in the United States, it is the most common operation for uncomplicated coxarthrosis performed in Europe, and, when done at the right time, can provide the patient with an additional 10 to 15 years of use of his own hip. Resurfacing operations for the femoral head and acetabulum are valuable, if temporary, measures for treating arthritis in the younger patient; for the older patient, total hip replacement is preferred.", "contents": "The painful hip: helping the handicapped cope. When seeing a patient with unexplained knee pain, it is imperative to examine and study the hip. Careful examination and maintaining notes on the patient's ability to walk and to perform daily functions will help determine when and if surgical treatment should be advised. Early consultation with an orthopedic surgeon will frequently be useful in determining whether an intertrochanteric osteotomy of the femur, a resurfacing operation of the hip, or a total hip replacement is indicated. From the orthopedist's point of view, it would be preferable to see the patient when at least 70 degrees of flexion is present. Although intertrochanteric osteotomy is rarely performed in the United States, it is the most common operation for uncomplicated coxarthrosis performed in Europe, and, when done at the right time, can provide the patient with an additional 10 to 15 years of use of his own hip. Resurfacing operations for the femoral head and acetabulum are valuable, if temporary, measures for treating arthritis in the younger patient; for the older patient, total hip replacement is preferred.", "PMID": 447086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7894", "title": "The granuloma in Crohn's disease.", "content": "The number of granulomas in sections of bowel involved by Crohn's disease has been counted and related to length of previous history, treatment with steroids, site of involvement, and the subsequent course of the disease. It was found that a high content of granulomas predicted a good prognosis in the large bowel and anus, but was of no prognostic significance in the small bowel. A large regional variation in granuloma counts was observed from an average of 1 per section in the small bowel to 6 in the colon, 18 in the rectum, and 36 in the anus. Those patients with a long clinical history showed a low granuloma content. The findings are consistent with the view that the granuloma represents an adaptive mechanism for the removal or localisation of the causative agent of Crohn's disease.", "contents": "The granuloma in Crohn's disease. The number of granulomas in sections of bowel involved by Crohn's disease has been counted and related to length of previous history, treatment with steroids, site of involvement, and the subsequent course of the disease. It was found that a high content of granulomas predicted a good prognosis in the large bowel and anus, but was of no prognostic significance in the small bowel. A large regional variation in granuloma counts was observed from an average of 1 per section in the small bowel to 6 in the colon, 18 in the rectum, and 36 in the anus. Those patients with a long clinical history showed a low granuloma content. The findings are consistent with the view that the granuloma represents an adaptive mechanism for the removal or localisation of the causative agent of Crohn's disease.", "PMID": 447106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7895", "title": "Endoscopic retrograde brush cytology in patients with primary and secondary malignancies of the pancreas.", "content": "Endoscopic retrograde brush cytology (ERBC) was performed in 29 patients with primary pancreatic malignancies verified later by histology. Results were positive in 21 patients, suspicious in five, and negative in three. ERBC performed in seven patients with uncertain findings at endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was positive for malignancy in six and suspicious in one. Endoscopic aspiration cytology (EAC) performed in 10 patients with primary tumours was positive for malignancy in three, suspicious in two, and negative in five cases. ERBC and/or EAC performed in five cases with secondary tumours were positive for malignancy in one and negative in four. It is concluded that ERBC gives a high rate of positive or suspicious (90%) diagnosis of malignancy in patients with primary pancreatic lesions. In secondary tumours cytology seems to be negative in most cases. The study further shows that many of the malignant tumours found by ERP are secondary lesions. Cytology is often able to detect malignancy when ERP has proved inconclusive.", "contents": "Endoscopic retrograde brush cytology in patients with primary and secondary malignancies of the pancreas. Endoscopic retrograde brush cytology (ERBC) was performed in 29 patients with primary pancreatic malignancies verified later by histology. Results were positive in 21 patients, suspicious in five, and negative in three. ERBC performed in seven patients with uncertain findings at endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was positive for malignancy in six and suspicious in one. Endoscopic aspiration cytology (EAC) performed in 10 patients with primary tumours was positive for malignancy in three, suspicious in two, and negative in five cases. ERBC and/or EAC performed in five cases with secondary tumours were positive for malignancy in one and negative in four. It is concluded that ERBC gives a high rate of positive or suspicious (90%) diagnosis of malignancy in patients with primary pancreatic lesions. In secondary tumours cytology seems to be negative in most cases. The study further shows that many of the malignant tumours found by ERP are secondary lesions. Cytology is often able to detect malignancy when ERP has proved inconclusive.", "PMID": 447107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7896", "title": "Transnasal bile duct catheterisation after endoscopic sphincterotomy: method for biliary drainage, perfusion, and sequential cholangiography.", "content": "We describe a method for leaving a catheter in the common bile duct for several days, even weeks, after endoscopic sphincterotomy. This provides reliable biliary drainage, and permits perfusion of the duct with simple fluids or solvents. It reduces the need for instrumental stone extraction and for repeated endoscopy and cholangiography to check whether stones have passed, since transnasal cholangiograms can be performed simply and repeatedly without discomfort.", "contents": "Transnasal bile duct catheterisation after endoscopic sphincterotomy: method for biliary drainage, perfusion, and sequential cholangiography. We describe a method for leaving a catheter in the common bile duct for several days, even weeks, after endoscopic sphincterotomy. This provides reliable biliary drainage, and permits perfusion of the duct with simple fluids or solvents. It reduces the need for instrumental stone extraction and for repeated endoscopy and cholangiography to check whether stones have passed, since transnasal cholangiograms can be performed simply and repeatedly without discomfort.", "PMID": 447108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7897", "title": "Comparison of oral feeding of peptide and amino acid meals to normal human subjects.", "content": "Intestinal perfusion studies performed in man have suggested that amino acid nitrogen may be absorbed more rapidly from peptides than free amino acids. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of the oral administration of peptides and free amino acids. Two isonitrogenous liquid test meals, one containing 50 g of a partial enzymic hydrolysate of fish protein in which approximately 80% of the nitrogen content was present as small peptides (peptide meal), and the other a mixture of free amino acids (amino acid meal) the composition and molar pattern of which simulated that of the peptide meal, were administered on separate occasions to six normal subjects intubated with a triple lumen tube. Both meals contained the reference marker polyethylene glycol. Fractional absorption of amino acid residues one and two hours after ingestion of the two meals was similar at three intestinal locations situated 120, 160, and 200 cm from the mouth of each subject, and at two hours 73.8% and 72.0% of the amino acid residues had been absorbed respectively by the time the contents of the peptide and amino acid meals reached the middle sampling port of the tube. The total sum of individual amino acid increments in plasma was significantly greater 30 minutes (p < 0.025) and one hour (p < 0.05) after ingestion of the peptide than amino acid meals. By three hours the total area under the two plasma curves was similar. Normal human subjects thus appeared to be capable of assimilating orally administered mixtures of peptides and free amino acids with equal efficiency. Secretion of fluid into the lumen of the upper small intestine, assessed by reference to dilution of the polyethylene glycol, was less after ingestion of the peptide meal. In clinical situations characterised by fluid and electrolyte malabsorption consideration might be given to using small peptides rather than free amino acids as the nitrogen source in nutritional diets.", "contents": "Comparison of oral feeding of peptide and amino acid meals to normal human subjects. Intestinal perfusion studies performed in man have suggested that amino acid nitrogen may be absorbed more rapidly from peptides than free amino acids. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of the oral administration of peptides and free amino acids. Two isonitrogenous liquid test meals, one containing 50 g of a partial enzymic hydrolysate of fish protein in which approximately 80% of the nitrogen content was present as small peptides (peptide meal), and the other a mixture of free amino acids (amino acid meal) the composition and molar pattern of which simulated that of the peptide meal, were administered on separate occasions to six normal subjects intubated with a triple lumen tube. Both meals contained the reference marker polyethylene glycol. Fractional absorption of amino acid residues one and two hours after ingestion of the two meals was similar at three intestinal locations situated 120, 160, and 200 cm from the mouth of each subject, and at two hours 73.8% and 72.0% of the amino acid residues had been absorbed respectively by the time the contents of the peptide and amino acid meals reached the middle sampling port of the tube. The total sum of individual amino acid increments in plasma was significantly greater 30 minutes (p < 0.025) and one hour (p < 0.05) after ingestion of the peptide than amino acid meals. By three hours the total area under the two plasma curves was similar. Normal human subjects thus appeared to be capable of assimilating orally administered mixtures of peptides and free amino acids with equal efficiency. Secretion of fluid into the lumen of the upper small intestine, assessed by reference to dilution of the polyethylene glycol, was less after ingestion of the peptide meal. In clinical situations characterised by fluid and electrolyte malabsorption consideration might be given to using small peptides rather than free amino acids as the nitrogen source in nutritional diets.", "PMID": 447109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7898", "title": "Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection in the rat: effect of iron and protein deficiency on the anthelmintic efficacy of mebendazole, pyrantel, piperazine, and levamisole.", "content": "The benzimidazole anthelmintics mebendazole and fenbendazole have been shown to be much less effective against Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infections in the rat on a combined iron and protein deficient diet. In the present experiments it was shown that the anthelmintic efficacy of mebendazole was significantly impaired in the rat on either an iron deficient or a protein deficient diet. Furthermore, iron and protein deficiency reduced the efficacy of the anthelmintics pyrantel and piperazine but not levamisole. The finding that nutritional deficiencies reduce anthelmintic efficacy may well be relevant to worm eradication programmes in iron deficient and protein calorie malnourished populations.", "contents": "Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection in the rat: effect of iron and protein deficiency on the anthelmintic efficacy of mebendazole, pyrantel, piperazine, and levamisole. The benzimidazole anthelmintics mebendazole and fenbendazole have been shown to be much less effective against Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infections in the rat on a combined iron and protein deficient diet. In the present experiments it was shown that the anthelmintic efficacy of mebendazole was significantly impaired in the rat on either an iron deficient or a protein deficient diet. Furthermore, iron and protein deficiency reduced the efficacy of the anthelmintics pyrantel and piperazine but not levamisole. The finding that nutritional deficiencies reduce anthelmintic efficacy may well be relevant to worm eradication programmes in iron deficient and protein calorie malnourished populations.", "PMID": 447110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7899", "title": "Proximal stomach and antrum in stomach emptying.", "content": "In a series of measurements of liquid-phase gastric emptying using a radionuclide marker on 35 subjects, five were identified in whom the proximal stomach and antrum were clearly distinguishable. Three of these subjects were normal controls and two suffered from systemic sclerosis. In the three normal subjects, analysis of the movement of the liquid showed the expected movement from fundus to antrum and thence through the pylorus. In the two patients with systemic sclerosis, there was, in contrast, evidence of mass retropulsion of the contents of the antrum into the fundus. In such cases, the measurement of stomach emptying based on the assumption of a single-compartment system in likely to be misleading.", "contents": "Proximal stomach and antrum in stomach emptying. In a series of measurements of liquid-phase gastric emptying using a radionuclide marker on 35 subjects, five were identified in whom the proximal stomach and antrum were clearly distinguishable. Three of these subjects were normal controls and two suffered from systemic sclerosis. In the three normal subjects, analysis of the movement of the liquid showed the expected movement from fundus to antrum and thence through the pylorus. In the two patients with systemic sclerosis, there was, in contrast, evidence of mass retropulsion of the contents of the antrum into the fundus. In such cases, the measurement of stomach emptying based on the assumption of a single-compartment system in likely to be misleading.", "PMID": 447111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7900", "title": "Rowachol--a possible treatment for cholesterol gallstones.", "content": "It has been claimed that Rowachol, a proprietary choleretic, is occasionally successful in the treatment of gallstones. In gallstone patients we have examined its effect on the lipid composition of (1) samples of fasting gall bladder bile obtained at the time of cholecystectomy, and (2) T-tube bile on the tenth post-operative day. In a dose of two capsules, three times a day for only 48 hours, Rowachol significantly lowered the cholesterol solubility of both gall bladder (P less than 0.001) and T-tube bile (P less than 0.05). Rowachol in a dose of one capsule three times a day for 48 hours did not alter bile composition, while four capsules four times a day for a similar period caused a significant (P less than 0.05) deterioration in biliary lipid composition. The possible mechanisms of action of Rowachol and their therapeutic implications are discussed.", "contents": "Rowachol--a possible treatment for cholesterol gallstones. It has been claimed that Rowachol, a proprietary choleretic, is occasionally successful in the treatment of gallstones. In gallstone patients we have examined its effect on the lipid composition of (1) samples of fasting gall bladder bile obtained at the time of cholecystectomy, and (2) T-tube bile on the tenth post-operative day. In a dose of two capsules, three times a day for only 48 hours, Rowachol significantly lowered the cholesterol solubility of both gall bladder (P less than 0.001) and T-tube bile (P less than 0.05). Rowachol in a dose of one capsule three times a day for 48 hours did not alter bile composition, while four capsules four times a day for a similar period caused a significant (P less than 0.05) deterioration in biliary lipid composition. The possible mechanisms of action of Rowachol and their therapeutic implications are discussed.", "PMID": 447112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7901", "title": "Chronic non-specific ulcerative duodenojejunoileitis: report of four cases.", "content": "Four patients with chronic non-specific ulcerative duodenojejunoileitis (CNSUDJI) are reported. The clinical picture included abdominal pain, fever, and a malabsorption syndrome. Main rediological findings were diffuse narrowing of the jejunal loops with total effacement of the mucosal folds. Multiple peroral biopsies of the small intestine showed various degrees of mucosal abnormalities from total villous atrophy to normal villi, but ulcerations were diagnosed only by operative full thickness biopsies or resection of the small bowel. The ulcerative process was associated with well-documented coeliac disease in two patients: in one of them it occurred as a fatal complication involving also the colon, three years after the start of a gluten free diet, while the disease was in full clinical and histological remission. In the other case, coeliac disease was revealed by obstructive symptoms due to stenosing ulcerations; five months after surgical resection of the stenosis, institution of a gluten free diet induced a dramatic improvement. In the two other patients ulcerations were not associated with coeliac disease: one of them had a patchy villous atrophy and resisted a gluten free diet and total parenteral nutrition; she was improved by and dependent upon steroids but finally died. The last patient had normal villous height; ulcerations were located exclusively along the mesenteric border of the small bowel; he had a low-grade protracted evolution resisting any form of therapy and developed a peripheral neuropathy of unknown aetiology. On the basis of our cases and of a review of the literature the discussion focuses on the difficulty in diagnosing CNSUDJI, its relationship with coeliac disease, and its management and prognosis.", "contents": "Chronic non-specific ulcerative duodenojejunoileitis: report of four cases. Four patients with chronic non-specific ulcerative duodenojejunoileitis (CNSUDJI) are reported. The clinical picture included abdominal pain, fever, and a malabsorption syndrome. Main rediological findings were diffuse narrowing of the jejunal loops with total effacement of the mucosal folds. Multiple peroral biopsies of the small intestine showed various degrees of mucosal abnormalities from total villous atrophy to normal villi, but ulcerations were diagnosed only by operative full thickness biopsies or resection of the small bowel. The ulcerative process was associated with well-documented coeliac disease in two patients: in one of them it occurred as a fatal complication involving also the colon, three years after the start of a gluten free diet, while the disease was in full clinical and histological remission. In the other case, coeliac disease was revealed by obstructive symptoms due to stenosing ulcerations; five months after surgical resection of the stenosis, institution of a gluten free diet induced a dramatic improvement. In the two other patients ulcerations were not associated with coeliac disease: one of them had a patchy villous atrophy and resisted a gluten free diet and total parenteral nutrition; she was improved by and dependent upon steroids but finally died. The last patient had normal villous height; ulcerations were located exclusively along the mesenteric border of the small bowel; he had a low-grade protracted evolution resisting any form of therapy and developed a peripheral neuropathy of unknown aetiology. On the basis of our cases and of a review of the literature the discussion focuses on the difficulty in diagnosing CNSUDJI, its relationship with coeliac disease, and its management and prognosis.", "PMID": 447113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7902", "title": "On the problem of variable numbers of hosts in the life-cycles of helminths.", "content": "The authors analyze the phenomena underlying the variation of host numbers in the life-cycle of several helminth species. Variation of host number in the cycle is effected by alternative shortening of the cycle (with this the cycle turns out either without or with a polyvalent obligatory host or, in rarer cases, without or with appearing of neogeny) or by facultative widening of the cycle (without or with participation of additional hosts, namely para-paratenic, paradefinitive, metaparatenic, or euparatenic hosts). The term of metaparatenic host is made precise by limitation to a \"hemistadiogenous\" additional host (sensu Barus and Rysav\u00fd 1977).", "contents": "On the problem of variable numbers of hosts in the life-cycles of helminths. The authors analyze the phenomena underlying the variation of host numbers in the life-cycle of several helminth species. Variation of host number in the cycle is effected by alternative shortening of the cycle (with this the cycle turns out either without or with a polyvalent obligatory host or, in rarer cases, without or with appearing of neogeny) or by facultative widening of the cycle (without or with participation of additional hosts, namely para-paratenic, paradefinitive, metaparatenic, or euparatenic hosts). The term of metaparatenic host is made precise by limitation to a \"hemistadiogenous\" additional host (sensu Barus and Rysav\u00fd 1977).", "PMID": 447125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7903", "title": "Tissue reaction in the heart of cattle with a spontaneous and artificial Cysticercus bovis infection.", "content": "Results of detailed studies on tissue reactions to Cysticercus bovis in the heart of cattle, together with a comparison of findings in animals with spontaneous and experimental infection, and an evaluation of tissue reactions in relation to the location, morphology and morphogenesis of C. bovis provided evidence for the fact that in general, the response of the heart to the presence of C. bovis was an inflammatory reaction characterized by the origin of a pseudoepithelial border and a zone of granulation tissue. Later, when necrotic changes started to affect the cysticercus, the inflammatory reaction started to develop anew. It was accompanied by an exudation and a subsequent resorption. Characteristic features were focal necroses both of the exudate and the inflammatory border followed by a dystrophic calcification, focal necroses and a dystrophic calcification of individual collagenous fibres and groups of these fibres in addition to a regular appearance of necrotic-like foci typical of a reaction to C. bovis. The location of the cysticercus in a certain part of the lymphatic system of the heart and in skeletal muscles was shown to have a considerable effect on the course of the inflammatory reaction. Differences in the development of the inflammatory reaction explained concomitant findings of dead and live cysticerci at the same time after an experimental infection.", "contents": "Tissue reaction in the heart of cattle with a spontaneous and artificial Cysticercus bovis infection. Results of detailed studies on tissue reactions to Cysticercus bovis in the heart of cattle, together with a comparison of findings in animals with spontaneous and experimental infection, and an evaluation of tissue reactions in relation to the location, morphology and morphogenesis of C. bovis provided evidence for the fact that in general, the response of the heart to the presence of C. bovis was an inflammatory reaction characterized by the origin of a pseudoepithelial border and a zone of granulation tissue. Later, when necrotic changes started to affect the cysticercus, the inflammatory reaction started to develop anew. It was accompanied by an exudation and a subsequent resorption. Characteristic features were focal necroses both of the exudate and the inflammatory border followed by a dystrophic calcification, focal necroses and a dystrophic calcification of individual collagenous fibres and groups of these fibres in addition to a regular appearance of necrotic-like foci typical of a reaction to C. bovis. The location of the cysticercus in a certain part of the lymphatic system of the heart and in skeletal muscles was shown to have a considerable effect on the course of the inflammatory reaction. Differences in the development of the inflammatory reaction explained concomitant findings of dead and live cysticerci at the same time after an experimental infection.", "PMID": 447126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7904", "title": "Persistence of Coxiella burnetii in beetles. Dermestes maculatus (Dermestidae).", "content": "Coxiella burnetti persisted irregularly in the larvae, pupae and imagos of Dermestes maculatus till 8th week after oral infection. Coxiella was probably transmitted between individual developmental stages by passages in the digestive tract.", "contents": "Persistence of Coxiella burnetii in beetles. Dermestes maculatus (Dermestidae). Coxiella burnetti persisted irregularly in the larvae, pupae and imagos of Dermestes maculatus till 8th week after oral infection. Coxiella was probably transmitted between individual developmental stages by passages in the digestive tract.", "PMID": 447127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7905", "title": "Serologic examination of human population in South Moravia (Czechoslovakia) on the presence of antibodies to arboviruses of the Alfavirus, Flavivirus, Turlock groups and Bunyamwera supergroup.", "content": "A statistically representative group of human population from the South Moravian region (CSSR) was examined on the presence of antibodies against the following arboviruses: Lednice, Sindbis, tick-borne encephalitis, West Nile, Tahyna and Calovo. The ascertained absence of antibodies to the Lednice virus is an evidence that at present this virus is of no epidemiological importance in the region studied. No antibodies to Sindbis, West Nile and Calovo viruses were demonstrated. 17.8 to 42.0% of antibodies to Tahyna virus were detected in all age groups examined. The total infection rate was 26.0%. Antibodies to the tick-borne encephalitis virus occurred primarily in persons over 40 years. The total infection rate was 5.5%.", "contents": "Serologic examination of human population in South Moravia (Czechoslovakia) on the presence of antibodies to arboviruses of the Alfavirus, Flavivirus, Turlock groups and Bunyamwera supergroup. A statistically representative group of human population from the South Moravian region (CSSR) was examined on the presence of antibodies against the following arboviruses: Lednice, Sindbis, tick-borne encephalitis, West Nile, Tahyna and Calovo. The ascertained absence of antibodies to the Lednice virus is an evidence that at present this virus is of no epidemiological importance in the region studied. No antibodies to Sindbis, West Nile and Calovo viruses were demonstrated. 17.8 to 42.0% of antibodies to Tahyna virus were detected in all age groups examined. The total infection rate was 26.0%. Antibodies to the tick-borne encephalitis virus occurred primarily in persons over 40 years. The total infection rate was 5.5%.", "PMID": 447128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7906", "title": "A proposal for the evaluation of vertebrates as to their role in the circulation of arboviruses.", "content": "The authors present a proposal for the classification of vertebrates as hosts or hosts-amplifiers of arboviruses from an ecological point of view.", "contents": "A proposal for the evaluation of vertebrates as to their role in the circulation of arboviruses. The authors present a proposal for the classification of vertebrates as hosts or hosts-amplifiers of arboviruses from an ecological point of view.", "PMID": 447129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7907", "title": "Density gradient centrifugation for separation of different stages of Toxoplasma gondii.", "content": "Suitable procedures for separation of various stages of Toxoplasma gondii by density gradient centrifugation have been delineated using peritoneal exudate of infected mouse as a model. Separation from host cells was effected by gradient centrifugation at 450 g for 30 minutes. Using Ficoll, dextran and sucrose, average parasite recoveries by pooling up to and including the peak fraction of 73.65%, 66.18% and 65.68% respectively were obtained. Toxoplasma trophozoites peaked at density of 1.040 g/ml with Ficoll, 1.060 g/ml with dextran and 1.110 g/ml with sucrose. In view of successful separation of exo-enteric stages of Toxoplasma by density gradient centrifugation, possible application of this method to isolation of various endo-enteric stages is discussed.", "contents": "Density gradient centrifugation for separation of different stages of Toxoplasma gondii. Suitable procedures for separation of various stages of Toxoplasma gondii by density gradient centrifugation have been delineated using peritoneal exudate of infected mouse as a model. Separation from host cells was effected by gradient centrifugation at 450 g for 30 minutes. Using Ficoll, dextran and sucrose, average parasite recoveries by pooling up to and including the peak fraction of 73.65%, 66.18% and 65.68% respectively were obtained. Toxoplasma trophozoites peaked at density of 1.040 g/ml with Ficoll, 1.060 g/ml with dextran and 1.110 g/ml with sucrose. In view of successful separation of exo-enteric stages of Toxoplasma by density gradient centrifugation, possible application of this method to isolation of various endo-enteric stages is discussed.", "PMID": 447130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7908", "title": "Mammals as source of ectoparasites in towns.", "content": "Four ecological groups of mammal ectoparasites are recognized in urban environment and their medical importance is briefly mentioned.", "contents": "Mammals as source of ectoparasites in towns. Four ecological groups of mammal ectoparasites are recognized in urban environment and their medical importance is briefly mentioned.", "PMID": 447131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7909", "title": "Rib-cage injuries indicating the direction and strength of impact.", "content": "The hardness and loading capacity of hundreds of rib pairs have been tested and compared with the results of about 200 tests concerning belt-protected human cadavers. Rib fractures exhibit patterns that indicate the direction and strength of impact. Differences are seen between static and dynamic loading. Deformation of the loaded rib cage can be demonstrated by X-ray examination.", "contents": "Rib-cage injuries indicating the direction and strength of impact. The hardness and loading capacity of hundreds of rib pairs have been tested and compared with the results of about 200 tests concerning belt-protected human cadavers. Rib fractures exhibit patterns that indicate the direction and strength of impact. Differences are seen between static and dynamic loading. Deformation of the loaded rib cage can be demonstrated by X-ray examination.", "PMID": 447141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7910", "title": "The species identification of very old human blood-stains.", "content": "The efficiency of 5% ammonia as an extractant of proteins from human bloodstains has been compared with that of water. Ammonia was shown to be a better extractant of protein than water and this allows the species identification of human bloodstains up to four years' old using conventional electrophoretic techniques.", "contents": "The species identification of very old human blood-stains. The efficiency of 5% ammonia as an extractant of proteins from human bloodstains has been compared with that of water. Ammonia was shown to be a better extractant of protein than water and this allows the species identification of human bloodstains up to four years' old using conventional electrophoretic techniques.", "PMID": 447142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7911", "title": "Death due to anaphylactic reaction, with presentation of pertinent biochemical parameters. A case report.", "content": "Autopsy findings in a young worker point to acute anaphylaxis. The conclusion was supported by a number of biochemical parameters in the blood collected after death. The nature of the antigen involved could not be established. However, the data collected may be useful in the future evaluation of similar cases.", "contents": "Death due to anaphylactic reaction, with presentation of pertinent biochemical parameters. A case report. Autopsy findings in a young worker point to acute anaphylaxis. The conclusion was supported by a number of biochemical parameters in the blood collected after death. The nature of the antigen involved could not be established. However, the data collected may be useful in the future evaluation of similar cases.", "PMID": 447146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7912", "title": "[Hygiene in children and adolescents].", "content": "Feminine hygiene is a concern not only in the reproductive years, but should be observed throughout life. Childhood is the formative period for behavior and every day routine, thus proper education and guidance of little girls are essential. Recognizing the importance of good personal hygiene habits for the prevention of diseases, the medical doctor should advise and motivate wherever possible.", "contents": "[Hygiene in children and adolescents]. Feminine hygiene is a concern not only in the reproductive years, but should be observed throughout life. Childhood is the formative period for behavior and every day routine, thus proper education and guidance of little girls are essential. Recognizing the importance of good personal hygiene habits for the prevention of diseases, the medical doctor should advise and motivate wherever possible.", "PMID": 447154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7913", "title": "Forensic application of rapid analysis of carboxyhemoglobin in blood using an oxygen electrode.", "content": "Blood carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) levels in forensic victims were measured by a new and rapid oxygen-electrode method for successive determinations of HHb, HbO2 and HbCO. It was found that the method is applicable to old denatured blood when combined with the cyanmethemoglobin method. Methemoglobin (Met-Hb) in blood was also estimated by subtracting the sum of HHb, HbO2 and HbCO from total hemoglobin (total Hb.) Blood Met-Hb levels in six victims of city gas poisoning were practically negligible, while those in five victims of fire were 13.5-26.3%.", "contents": "Forensic application of rapid analysis of carboxyhemoglobin in blood using an oxygen electrode. Blood carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) levels in forensic victims were measured by a new and rapid oxygen-electrode method for successive determinations of HHb, HbO2 and HbCO. It was found that the method is applicable to old denatured blood when combined with the cyanmethemoglobin method. Methemoglobin (Met-Hb) in blood was also estimated by subtracting the sum of HHb, HbO2 and HbCO from total hemoglobin (total Hb.) Blood Met-Hb levels in six victims of city gas poisoning were practically negligible, while those in five victims of fire were 13.5-26.3%.", "PMID": 447148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7914", "title": "[Gynecologic tumors in childhood and adolescence].", "content": "These tumors, although rarely found, are of high clinical interest because of the difficulty of diagnosis and the problems of therapy. Symptoms which lead to the (provisional) diagnosis of tumors in female adults such as atypical bleeding, virilisation, growth of the abdominal circumference and the like are often ignored or not recognized in childhood. As a result, therapy often is started too late. More complications and greater difficulty of therapeutical measures such as operations, radiation and chemotherapy are encountered in childhood than in adult life. Frequency and morphology of gynecoligic tumors are described and diagnosis and therapy are discussed.", "contents": "[Gynecologic tumors in childhood and adolescence]. These tumors, although rarely found, are of high clinical interest because of the difficulty of diagnosis and the problems of therapy. Symptoms which lead to the (provisional) diagnosis of tumors in female adults such as atypical bleeding, virilisation, growth of the abdominal circumference and the like are often ignored or not recognized in childhood. As a result, therapy often is started too late. More complications and greater difficulty of therapeutical measures such as operations, radiation and chemotherapy are encountered in childhood than in adult life. Frequency and morphology of gynecoligic tumors are described and diagnosis and therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 447156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7915", "title": "Techniques used in the evaluation of vertebral artery trauma at post-mortem.", "content": "Techniques for the examination of trauma to the vertebral arteries are described in detail. The importance of the preparatory dissection is emphasised, as well as the need for radiological, and detailed gross and microscopic examination. Reference is also made to the categories of cases in which this examination may be of particular value.", "contents": "Techniques used in the evaluation of vertebral artery trauma at post-mortem. Techniques for the examination of trauma to the vertebral arteries are described in detail. The importance of the preparatory dissection is emphasised, as well as the need for radiological, and detailed gross and microscopic examination. Reference is also made to the categories of cases in which this examination may be of particular value.", "PMID": 447149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7916", "title": "Morphine: its quantitative determination in nanogram amounts in small samples of whole blood by electron-capture gas chromatography.", "content": "A method for the determination of nanogram quantities of morphine in hemolyzed whole blood taken post mortem, or other blood samples of poor quality, has been developed. Morphine was extracted into ethyl acetate from blood at pH 8.7-9.0, and purified by absorption onto a column of acid aluminium oxide and elution with methanol. Nalorphine was added as an internal standard, the compounds derivatized with pentafluoropropionic acid anhydride, and the derivatives formed quantified by electron-capture gas chromatography. The recovery of morphine added to whole blood was 83%, the coefficient of variation 6.7%. The method is capable of measuring morphine concentrations of 1 ng/g in 0.1-0.2 g of post-mortem blood.", "contents": "Morphine: its quantitative determination in nanogram amounts in small samples of whole blood by electron-capture gas chromatography. A method for the determination of nanogram quantities of morphine in hemolyzed whole blood taken post mortem, or other blood samples of poor quality, has been developed. Morphine was extracted into ethyl acetate from blood at pH 8.7-9.0, and purified by absorption onto a column of acid aluminium oxide and elution with methanol. Nalorphine was added as an internal standard, the compounds derivatized with pentafluoropropionic acid anhydride, and the derivatives formed quantified by electron-capture gas chromatography. The recovery of morphine added to whole blood was 83%, the coefficient of variation 6.7%. The method is capable of measuring morphine concentrations of 1 ng/g in 0.1-0.2 g of post-mortem blood.", "PMID": 447147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7917", "title": "[Geriatric gynecology with special reference to malignant tumors].", "content": "After the enumeration of every single problem encountered in the geriatric gynecology, it has been proved, that the malignant tumors of such cases are of a special significance. according to the epidemiological facts of the Austrian Cancer-Registration-Statistics between the years 1971--1975 (even if the cancer of cervix uteri is excluded) more than 60% of the cases are still seen in the geriatric group. Increasing risk (by rate of incidence) of malignant tumors of internal genitals or the breast in aged women is also known and is proved to be very specific. Inspite of the progress won in geriatric surgical gynecology, the post-operative complications are still the negative factors, which limitate the success. Therefore today radiotherapy of the malignant tumors especially in geriatric-gynecological patients is gaining more and more importance.", "contents": "[Geriatric gynecology with special reference to malignant tumors]. After the enumeration of every single problem encountered in the geriatric gynecology, it has been proved, that the malignant tumors of such cases are of a special significance. according to the epidemiological facts of the Austrian Cancer-Registration-Statistics between the years 1971--1975 (even if the cancer of cervix uteri is excluded) more than 60% of the cases are still seen in the geriatric group. Increasing risk (by rate of incidence) of malignant tumors of internal genitals or the breast in aged women is also known and is proved to be very specific. Inspite of the progress won in geriatric surgical gynecology, the post-operative complications are still the negative factors, which limitate the success. Therefore today radiotherapy of the malignant tumors especially in geriatric-gynecological patients is gaining more and more importance.", "PMID": 447158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7918", "title": "[Experiences with an antimycotic tampon in the treatment of saccharomycetic vaginal infection].", "content": "Antimycotic (miconazole) medicated tampons were used for treatment in 53 patients with vaginal saccharomycetic infections as evidenced by hanging drop and on culture. A short term 2 1/2 day treatment with 5 tampons showed a success rate of 92.5%. The fast relief of symptoms like discharge, itching and burning is an improvement of the medicated tampon treatment. The new medicated tampons are considered as improvement of local vaginal treatment.", "contents": "[Experiences with an antimycotic tampon in the treatment of saccharomycetic vaginal infection]. Antimycotic (miconazole) medicated tampons were used for treatment in 53 patients with vaginal saccharomycetic infections as evidenced by hanging drop and on culture. A short term 2 1/2 day treatment with 5 tampons showed a success rate of 92.5%. The fast relief of symptoms like discharge, itching and burning is an improvement of the medicated tampon treatment. The new medicated tampons are considered as improvement of local vaginal treatment.", "PMID": 447159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7919", "title": "Red cell PGM1 (phosphoglucomutase) phenotyping by isoelectric focussing and starch gel electrophoresis in cases of disputed paternity in the United Kingdom. An evaluation of the results obtained in 95 cases.", "content": "Using two techniques for red cell PGM1 (phosphoglucomutase) phenotyping, namely starch gel electrophoresis and isoelectric focussing, a parallel study has been carried out in 95 paternity cases. The results again confirm the genetic basis for the extended polymorphism revealed by isoelectric focussing. Fifteen men were excluded from paternity on the basis of isoelectric focussing compared with seven excluded by starch gel electrophoresis. This was found to be in good agreement with the predicted increase in exclusion rate that the isoelectric focussing technique for red cell PGM1 provides.", "contents": "Red cell PGM1 (phosphoglucomutase) phenotyping by isoelectric focussing and starch gel electrophoresis in cases of disputed paternity in the United Kingdom. An evaluation of the results obtained in 95 cases. Using two techniques for red cell PGM1 (phosphoglucomutase) phenotyping, namely starch gel electrophoresis and isoelectric focussing, a parallel study has been carried out in 95 paternity cases. The results again confirm the genetic basis for the extended polymorphism revealed by isoelectric focussing. Fifteen men were excluded from paternity on the basis of isoelectric focussing compared with seven excluded by starch gel electrophoresis. This was found to be in good agreement with the predicted increase in exclusion rate that the isoelectric focussing technique for red cell PGM1 provides.", "PMID": 447151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7920", "title": "Glyoxalase I in studies of paternity cases in Poland.", "content": "The distribution of glyoxalase I (GLO) types in cases of disputed paternity is reported. On the basis of 553 paternity cases, it is concluded that the GLO system is a valuable supplement to other systems of genetic markers in cases of disputed paternity. The theoretical probability of paternity exclusion in the GLO system, in the Polish population, is 18.6%.", "contents": "Glyoxalase I in studies of paternity cases in Poland. The distribution of glyoxalase I (GLO) types in cases of disputed paternity is reported. On the basis of 553 paternity cases, it is concluded that the GLO system is a valuable supplement to other systems of genetic markers in cases of disputed paternity. The theoretical probability of paternity exclusion in the GLO system, in the Polish population, is 18.6%.", "PMID": 447152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7921", "title": "[Utilization of Raoul Hoffman's Fixateur externe: indications and results].", "content": "In the Berufsgenossenschaftliche Unfallklinik Murnau (a Workmen's Association Emergency Hospital) 101 patients were treated with the Raoul Hoffmann-Fixateur externe. In patients with fresh bone fractures this system was very useful in cases with large soft tissue damages, with compound fractures and when the fractures were located very close to a joint. Good results were achieved also in the treatment of patients with pelvic fractures by using the Raoul Hoffmann-apparatus. In cases of old fractures no osteomyelitis occurred after introducing the nails and bone-screws of the Fixateur externe. Even with the Raoul Hoffmann-apparatus still in the bone physical therapy and the general care of the patient was easily possible. According to our experiences the Fixateur externe proved to be a valuable aid in traumatology besides the usage of plates and medullary nails.", "contents": "[Utilization of Raoul Hoffman's Fixateur externe: indications and results]. In the Berufsgenossenschaftliche Unfallklinik Murnau (a Workmen's Association Emergency Hospital) 101 patients were treated with the Raoul Hoffmann-Fixateur externe. In patients with fresh bone fractures this system was very useful in cases with large soft tissue damages, with compound fractures and when the fractures were located very close to a joint. Good results were achieved also in the treatment of patients with pelvic fractures by using the Raoul Hoffmann-apparatus. In cases of old fractures no osteomyelitis occurred after introducing the nails and bone-screws of the Fixateur externe. Even with the Raoul Hoffmann-apparatus still in the bone physical therapy and the general care of the patient was easily possible. According to our experiences the Fixateur externe proved to be a valuable aid in traumatology besides the usage of plates and medullary nails.", "PMID": 447161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7922", "title": "The erythrocyte acid phosphatase isoenzyme distribution among the negroid population of Rhodesia.", "content": "The value of the erythrocyte acid phosphatase isoenzyme system as a method for blood typing in forensic science in Rhodesia has been evaluated. Three hundred and three blood samples from negroid people were examined. The high incidence of the B phenotype (72%) results in a poor division of the population using this system. The R allele which has been found in other negroid peoples also occurs in the Rhodesian population.", "contents": "The erythrocyte acid phosphatase isoenzyme distribution among the negroid population of Rhodesia. The value of the erythrocyte acid phosphatase isoenzyme system as a method for blood typing in forensic science in Rhodesia has been evaluated. Three hundred and three blood samples from negroid people were examined. The high incidence of the B phenotype (72%) results in a poor division of the population using this system. The R allele which has been found in other negroid peoples also occurs in the Rhodesian population.", "PMID": 447153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7923", "title": "[Ligament ruptures of the upper ankle joint: diagnosis and therapy].", "content": "Supination-stress at the upper ankle often is reason for ruptures of capsula and ligaments. Surgical repair shows better results than conservative treatment. Diagnosis and therapy of 125 ruptures of the fibular ligaments and capsulae are reported.", "contents": "[Ligament ruptures of the upper ankle joint: diagnosis and therapy]. Supination-stress at the upper ankle often is reason for ruptures of capsula and ligaments. Surgical repair shows better results than conservative treatment. Diagnosis and therapy of 125 ruptures of the fibular ligaments and capsulae are reported.", "PMID": 447167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7924", "title": "[Treatment of progressive chronic polyarthritis with a non-steroidal antirheumatic agent with a long half-life].", "content": "73 patients with definite active rheumatoid arthritis were treated with naproxen, 250 mg b.i.d. One month after the start of therapy the patients were examined as to following parameters: spontaneous pain and pain on movement, duration of morning stiffness, fatigue, grip strength, functional joint index, ESR and consumption of analgesics. On statistical analysis a significant improvement of all the parameters, with the exception of ESR was shown, 52 of the 73 patients were very satisfied resp. satisfied with the treatment, whereas the physician evaluated the therapeutic results as very good to good in 49 of the cases. In 50 of the patients the therapy with naproxen, 250 mg b.i.d., was continued for two more months. In most of these cases it was possible to achieve an additional improvement in the parameters evaluated. Unwanted side effects occurred in 7 patients, of which in 4 the treatment had to be discontinued (in two cases because of dyspepsia and once each because of an angioneurotic edema and a recurrence of a peptic ulcer, respectively). The three patients in whose cases therapy was continued suffered from mild gastrointestinal disturbances.", "contents": "[Treatment of progressive chronic polyarthritis with a non-steroidal antirheumatic agent with a long half-life]. 73 patients with definite active rheumatoid arthritis were treated with naproxen, 250 mg b.i.d. One month after the start of therapy the patients were examined as to following parameters: spontaneous pain and pain on movement, duration of morning stiffness, fatigue, grip strength, functional joint index, ESR and consumption of analgesics. On statistical analysis a significant improvement of all the parameters, with the exception of ESR was shown, 52 of the 73 patients were very satisfied resp. satisfied with the treatment, whereas the physician evaluated the therapeutic results as very good to good in 49 of the cases. In 50 of the patients the therapy with naproxen, 250 mg b.i.d., was continued for two more months. In most of these cases it was possible to achieve an additional improvement in the parameters evaluated. Unwanted side effects occurred in 7 patients, of which in 4 the treatment had to be discontinued (in two cases because of dyspepsia and once each because of an angioneurotic edema and a recurrence of a peptic ulcer, respectively). The three patients in whose cases therapy was continued suffered from mild gastrointestinal disturbances.", "PMID": 447168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7925", "title": "[Intestinal gas gangrene originating from the gallbladder: diagnosis, therapy, report of 2 cases].", "content": "The problems of diagnosis and therapy of gas gangrene of the gastrointestinal tube and the gallbladder are discussed. 2 cases of gas edema of the gallbladder due to clostridium perfringens are reported. One of the patients survived. The early diagnosis of gas gangrene is important because of the extraordinary way of infection and the necessary early surgical and medicamentous therapy.", "contents": "[Intestinal gas gangrene originating from the gallbladder: diagnosis, therapy, report of 2 cases]. The problems of diagnosis and therapy of gas gangrene of the gastrointestinal tube and the gallbladder are discussed. 2 cases of gas edema of the gallbladder due to clostridium perfringens are reported. One of the patients survived. The early diagnosis of gas gangrene is important because of the extraordinary way of infection and the necessary early surgical and medicamentous therapy.", "PMID": 447171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7926", "title": "[Bronchial cancer: diagnosis, therapy and results].", "content": "A review of 603 cases of carcinoma of the bronchi is given. Symptoms, diagnosis and therapy are discussed. The five year survival-rate is 22%. The problem of early diagnosis is pointed out.", "contents": "[Bronchial cancer: diagnosis, therapy and results]. A review of 603 cases of carcinoma of the bronchi is given. Symptoms, diagnosis and therapy are discussed. The five year survival-rate is 22%. The problem of early diagnosis is pointed out.", "PMID": 447173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7927", "title": "[Intrapulmonary teratoma: case report and review of the literature].", "content": "A case of a malignant intrapulmonary teratoma is described. 21 other cases published in the literature are reviewed. The third pharyngeal pouch is suggested to be the origin of these teratomata.", "contents": "[Intrapulmonary teratoma: case report and review of the literature]. A case of a malignant intrapulmonary teratoma is described. 21 other cases published in the literature are reviewed. The third pharyngeal pouch is suggested to be the origin of these teratomata.", "PMID": 447174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7928", "title": "Nomenclature of the univentricular heart.", "content": "A simple system for the analysis and classification of the univentricular heart is described. The basis of this approach is the use of a step by step sequential nomenclature with attention paid to the morphology, connexions and relationships of each cardiac segment in turn. Three major morphological types of univentricular heart are identified and these may be distinguished, by their characteristic trabecular patterns, into hearts of left ventricular type, right ventricular type and indeterminate type. With the exception of the last it is usual for a rudimentary second chamber to be present upon the use of a clear definition of \"ventricle\", depending on readily ascertainable anatomical characteristics. Each morphological type of univentricular heart may be associated with a wide variety of different connexions and intracardiac relationships and it is neither possible nor desirable to describe these in terms of a rigidly structured classification. Adherence to the simple semantic framework outlined would resolve much of the confusion and controversy which exists in relation to the univentricular heart.", "contents": "Nomenclature of the univentricular heart. A simple system for the analysis and classification of the univentricular heart is described. The basis of this approach is the use of a step by step sequential nomenclature with attention paid to the morphology, connexions and relationships of each cardiac segment in turn. Three major morphological types of univentricular heart are identified and these may be distinguished, by their characteristic trabecular patterns, into hearts of left ventricular type, right ventricular type and indeterminate type. With the exception of the last it is usual for a rudimentary second chamber to be present upon the use of a clear definition of \"ventricle\", depending on readily ascertainable anatomical characteristics. Each morphological type of univentricular heart may be associated with a wide variety of different connexions and intracardiac relationships and it is neither possible nor desirable to describe these in terms of a rigidly structured classification. Adherence to the simple semantic framework outlined would resolve much of the confusion and controversy which exists in relation to the univentricular heart.", "PMID": 447175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7929", "title": "Morphology and conducting tissue in univentricular hearts of right ventricular type.", "content": "22 specimens of univentricular hearts of right ventricular type were examined morphologically. 6 hearts were sectioned for study of the conducting tissue. All the specimens had rudimentary second chambers, which were frequently so small as to have been overlooked, both angiographically and at initial morphological study. The segmental connexions and intracardiac relationships varied widely. Examples were found with 2 atrioventricular valves, a common valve and with absence of either the right or the left atrio-ventricular connexion. In some cases straddling of an atrioventricular valve was observed. The rudimentary chambers always lay posteriorly but varied between a position to the left of the ventricle and one to the right. The septum between ventricle and rudimentary chamber ran to the crux of the heart in all but 2 instances. In most specimens both great arteries arose from the ventricle (double outlet ventricle), so that the rudimentary chamber was solely a trabecular pouch. 4 hearts had concordant arterial connections with the aorta arising from a posterior \"outlet\" chamber. Pulmonary atresia was found in 5 cases and aortic atresia in 2. The conduction system originated from a normally placed atrioventricular node in 4 out of 6 cases and was related to the trabecular septum in 5. The penetrating bundle usually descended onto the crest of the septum at the \"crux\" of the heart and bifurcated astride it. In 2 cases with an absent atrioventricular connexion the penetrating bundle originated from an abnormally placed node and in one of these specimens a sling of conducting tissue was identified with dual pathways.", "contents": "Morphology and conducting tissue in univentricular hearts of right ventricular type. 22 specimens of univentricular hearts of right ventricular type were examined morphologically. 6 hearts were sectioned for study of the conducting tissue. All the specimens had rudimentary second chambers, which were frequently so small as to have been overlooked, both angiographically and at initial morphological study. The segmental connexions and intracardiac relationships varied widely. Examples were found with 2 atrioventricular valves, a common valve and with absence of either the right or the left atrio-ventricular connexion. In some cases straddling of an atrioventricular valve was observed. The rudimentary chambers always lay posteriorly but varied between a position to the left of the ventricle and one to the right. The septum between ventricle and rudimentary chamber ran to the crux of the heart in all but 2 instances. In most specimens both great arteries arose from the ventricle (double outlet ventricle), so that the rudimentary chamber was solely a trabecular pouch. 4 hearts had concordant arterial connections with the aorta arising from a posterior \"outlet\" chamber. Pulmonary atresia was found in 5 cases and aortic atresia in 2. The conduction system originated from a normally placed atrioventricular node in 4 out of 6 cases and was related to the trabecular septum in 5. The penetrating bundle usually descended onto the crest of the septum at the \"crux\" of the heart and bifurcated astride it. In 2 cases with an absent atrioventricular connexion the penetrating bundle originated from an abnormally placed node and in one of these specimens a sling of conducting tissue was identified with dual pathways.", "PMID": 447177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7930", "title": "Univentricular hearts: pathology of the atrioventricular valves.", "content": "Anomalies of the atrio-ventricular valves are frequent in cases of univentricular heart with severe symptomatology during the first year of life and in necropsy material. This suggests that they are important determinants of the natural history of the malformation. Radical \"corrective\" surgery, in the presence of these anomalies, may be less successful than palliative programs based on sound physiological grounds. Under such circumstances, enlargement or creation of an atrial septal defect may be necessary. A careful assessment of the state of the atrio-ventricular orifices has to be included in the cardiac catheterization protocol of cases of univentricular hearts. From a morphogenetic viewpoint, a single ventricular cavity is not the appropriate substrate for two normal atrio-ventricular valves to develop.", "contents": "Univentricular hearts: pathology of the atrioventricular valves. Anomalies of the atrio-ventricular valves are frequent in cases of univentricular heart with severe symptomatology during the first year of life and in necropsy material. This suggests that they are important determinants of the natural history of the malformation. Radical \"corrective\" surgery, in the presence of these anomalies, may be less successful than palliative programs based on sound physiological grounds. Under such circumstances, enlargement or creation of an atrial septal defect may be necessary. A careful assessment of the state of the atrio-ventricular orifices has to be included in the cardiac catheterization protocol of cases of univentricular hearts. From a morphogenetic viewpoint, a single ventricular cavity is not the appropriate substrate for two normal atrio-ventricular valves to develop.", "PMID": 447178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7931", "title": "Atrioventricular conduction tissues in univentricular hearts of left ventricular type.", "content": "Univentricular heart of left ventricular type is defined as the condition in which the entirety of atrial inputs is committed to a main chamber exhibiting trabecular pattern of left ventricular type, usually in the presence of another chamber in the ventricular mass which has a right ventricular trabecular pattern. This condition can occur with two atrioventricular valves, a common atrioventricular valve, a straddling atrioventricular valve or with absence of the right or left atrioventricular connexions. The hallmark of univentricular heart of left ventricular type is absence of the inlet septum, which normally separates the inlet portions of the two ventricles and which in the normal heart carries the atrioventricular conduction bundle. In univentricular heart of the left ventricular type, as a consequence of its absence, an abnormal disposition of the atrioventricular conduction tissues is found. An anterior or lateral atrioventricular node is present from which the prenetrating bundle descends onto the trabecular septum separating main chamber from rudimentray chamber. The topographical relationship of the bundle particularly with respect to the outflow tract of the posterior great artery from the main chamber, depends on the position of the rudimentary chamber. In atrial situs solitus, a left-sided rudimentary chamber will be associated with a long bundle in close proximity to the ostium of the posterior great artery from the main chamber. In contrast, in the heart with a right-sided rudimentary chamber the bundle will stay remote from the posterior outflow tract. The position of the rudimentary chamber will also alter the site of the ventriculotomy for any proposed corrective surgery and, hence,, alter the relationship of the bundle relative to the outlet foremen, as viewed by the surgeon. The general disposition of the atrioventricular conduction system in univentricular heart of left ventricular type is not altered by the type or mode of the atrioventricular connexion, nor by the type of the arterial connexion.", "contents": "Atrioventricular conduction tissues in univentricular hearts of left ventricular type. Univentricular heart of left ventricular type is defined as the condition in which the entirety of atrial inputs is committed to a main chamber exhibiting trabecular pattern of left ventricular type, usually in the presence of another chamber in the ventricular mass which has a right ventricular trabecular pattern. This condition can occur with two atrioventricular valves, a common atrioventricular valve, a straddling atrioventricular valve or with absence of the right or left atrioventricular connexions. The hallmark of univentricular heart of left ventricular type is absence of the inlet septum, which normally separates the inlet portions of the two ventricles and which in the normal heart carries the atrioventricular conduction bundle. In univentricular heart of the left ventricular type, as a consequence of its absence, an abnormal disposition of the atrioventricular conduction tissues is found. An anterior or lateral atrioventricular node is present from which the prenetrating bundle descends onto the trabecular septum separating main chamber from rudimentray chamber. The topographical relationship of the bundle particularly with respect to the outflow tract of the posterior great artery from the main chamber, depends on the position of the rudimentary chamber. In atrial situs solitus, a left-sided rudimentary chamber will be associated with a long bundle in close proximity to the ostium of the posterior great artery from the main chamber. In contrast, in the heart with a right-sided rudimentary chamber the bundle will stay remote from the posterior outflow tract. The position of the rudimentary chamber will also alter the site of the ventriculotomy for any proposed corrective surgery and, hence,, alter the relationship of the bundle relative to the outlet foremen, as viewed by the surgeon. The general disposition of the atrioventricular conduction system in univentricular heart of left ventricular type is not altered by the type or mode of the atrioventricular connexion, nor by the type of the arterial connexion.", "PMID": 447179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7932", "title": "The relationship between single ventricle and small outlet chamber and straddling and displaced tricuspid orifice and valve.", "content": "This paper deals with the anatomic differences between single ventricle and small outlet chamber, straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, and displaced tricuspid orifice and valve. In single ventricle, both atrioventricular orifices enter a chamber which contains the sinuses of both definitive ventricles, while a small outlet chamber represents the definitive infundibulum of the right ventricle. In straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive infundibulum of the right ventricle. In straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive left ventricle and also a portion of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. The primitive right ventricle contains the infundibulum and part of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. In displaced tricuspid orifice, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive left and almost all of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. However, a posterior ventricular septum is formed, so that a portion of sinus or apical recess of the definitive right ventricle is included in the primitive right ventricle together with its infundibulum. Possible embryologic speculations are offered to account for these entities. The differences in the anatomy of these entities may be important to the surgeon.", "contents": "The relationship between single ventricle and small outlet chamber and straddling and displaced tricuspid orifice and valve. This paper deals with the anatomic differences between single ventricle and small outlet chamber, straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, and displaced tricuspid orifice and valve. In single ventricle, both atrioventricular orifices enter a chamber which contains the sinuses of both definitive ventricles, while a small outlet chamber represents the definitive infundibulum of the right ventricle. In straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive infundibulum of the right ventricle. In straddling tricuspid orifice and valve, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive left ventricle and also a portion of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. The primitive right ventricle contains the infundibulum and part of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. In displaced tricuspid orifice, the primitive left ventricle contains the sinus of the definitive left and almost all of the sinus of the definitive right ventricle. However, a posterior ventricular septum is formed, so that a portion of sinus or apical recess of the definitive right ventricle is included in the primitive right ventricle together with its infundibulum. Possible embryologic speculations are offered to account for these entities. The differences in the anatomy of these entities may be important to the surgeon.", "PMID": 447180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7933", "title": "Ventricular morphology in the univentricular heart.", "content": "The ventricle morphology is described in hearts in which the entire atrial inputs are committed to a single chamber in the ventricular mass, this being considered the criterion for definition of the univentricular heart. Such a definition does not exclude from the univentricular category hearts with two chambers in their ventricular mass providing that the second chamber does not receive a direct atrial input. Three types of ventricular morphology were identified: hearts with a main chamber of left ventricular pattern and a rudimentary chamber of right ventricular pattern; hearts with a main chamber of right ventricular pattern and a rudimentary chamber of left ventricular pattern and hearts with a sole chamber in their ventricular mass of indeterminate pattern. Hearts may also exist of right or left ventricular type without rudimentary chambers. Variation was noted in type and position of the rudimentary chambers. Chambers of either right or left ventricular type were found supporting either or both great arteries (outlet chambers), and also without a direct outlet (trabecular pouches). Right ventricular rudimentary chambers were usually anterior but could be right or left sided; left ventricular chambers were posterior but again could be right or left sided. Hearts with these ventricular morphologies possessed either double inlet atrioventricular connexions, or absence of the right or left atrioventriuclar connexion. In double inlet ventricles, cases were observed with two valves, a common valve, one imperforate valve, and with straddling atrioventricular valves. A straddling valve was also found in hearts with absence of one atrioventricular connexion. Further variation was found in the pattern of arterial connexions. It is concluded that ventricular morphology is an important feature of the iniventricular heart but must be considered in the context of other important and variable features.", "contents": "Ventricular morphology in the univentricular heart. The ventricle morphology is described in hearts in which the entire atrial inputs are committed to a single chamber in the ventricular mass, this being considered the criterion for definition of the univentricular heart. Such a definition does not exclude from the univentricular category hearts with two chambers in their ventricular mass providing that the second chamber does not receive a direct atrial input. Three types of ventricular morphology were identified: hearts with a main chamber of left ventricular pattern and a rudimentary chamber of right ventricular pattern; hearts with a main chamber of right ventricular pattern and a rudimentary chamber of left ventricular pattern and hearts with a sole chamber in their ventricular mass of indeterminate pattern. Hearts may also exist of right or left ventricular type without rudimentary chambers. Variation was noted in type and position of the rudimentary chambers. Chambers of either right or left ventricular type were found supporting either or both great arteries (outlet chambers), and also without a direct outlet (trabecular pouches). Right ventricular rudimentary chambers were usually anterior but could be right or left sided; left ventricular chambers were posterior but again could be right or left sided. Hearts with these ventricular morphologies possessed either double inlet atrioventricular connexions, or absence of the right or left atrioventriuclar connexion. In double inlet ventricles, cases were observed with two valves, a common valve, one imperforate valve, and with straddling atrioventricular valves. A straddling valve was also found in hearts with absence of one atrioventricular connexion. Further variation was found in the pattern of arterial connexions. It is concluded that ventricular morphology is an important feature of the iniventricular heart but must be considered in the context of other important and variable features.", "PMID": 447181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7934", "title": "Univentricular heart (common ventricle): preoperative diagnosis. Hemodynamic, angiocardiographic and echocardiographic features.", "content": "Univentricular heart or common ventricle can be defined as a heart that has a ventricular chamber that recieves both antrioventricular valves or one atrioventricular valve. Hallermann's angiographic modification of Van Praahg's classification is a practical and useful classification of this complex abnormality. The classification divides univentricular heart into two types namely type A, those with an outflow chamber and type C, those with an outflow chamber. The relative position of the great arteries further subdivides the types of common ventricle. Thus, common ventricles may have a normal relative relationship of the great arteries but more frequently the great arteries are transposed in a levo or a dextro position. The most common type of common ventricle in the type A-3. A review of 145 cases of common ventricle seen at the Mayo Clinic comprises the majority of this report. Age range in this series is from seven days to 38 years with a mean age of 8.4 years. Males are slightly more dominent than females roughly in a ratio of 2:1. Type A common ventricle occurred in 63 percent of the cases and tye C occurred in 37 percent of the cases. Simultaneous saturations from the pulmonary arteries and femoral arteries in this show that complete mixing occurs in approximatley 50 percent of these cases but in the other 50 percent of the cases great differences may be seen and are not related to the great vessel position. Obstruction at the bulboventricular foramen while it can be severe is usually not. M-mode echocardiography has been of great help in the diagnoisis of common ventricle and features are listed. Two dimensional real time sector echocardiography; however, forms a much more detailed diagnosis and many times showed details particularly in valvular anatomy that is not seen by conventional angiocardiographic techniques. Attention to the detail of preoperative diagnosis from a hemodynamic and anatomic standpoint will avoid many errors usually discovered at the time of surgery.", "contents": "Univentricular heart (common ventricle): preoperative diagnosis. Hemodynamic, angiocardiographic and echocardiographic features. Univentricular heart or common ventricle can be defined as a heart that has a ventricular chamber that recieves both antrioventricular valves or one atrioventricular valve. Hallermann's angiographic modification of Van Praahg's classification is a practical and useful classification of this complex abnormality. The classification divides univentricular heart into two types namely type A, those with an outflow chamber and type C, those with an outflow chamber. The relative position of the great arteries further subdivides the types of common ventricle. Thus, common ventricles may have a normal relative relationship of the great arteries but more frequently the great arteries are transposed in a levo or a dextro position. The most common type of common ventricle in the type A-3. A review of 145 cases of common ventricle seen at the Mayo Clinic comprises the majority of this report. Age range in this series is from seven days to 38 years with a mean age of 8.4 years. Males are slightly more dominent than females roughly in a ratio of 2:1. Type A common ventricle occurred in 63 percent of the cases and tye C occurred in 37 percent of the cases. Simultaneous saturations from the pulmonary arteries and femoral arteries in this show that complete mixing occurs in approximatley 50 percent of these cases but in the other 50 percent of the cases great differences may be seen and are not related to the great vessel position. Obstruction at the bulboventricular foramen while it can be severe is usually not. M-mode echocardiography has been of great help in the diagnoisis of common ventricle and features are listed. Two dimensional real time sector echocardiography; however, forms a much more detailed diagnosis and many times showed details particularly in valvular anatomy that is not seen by conventional angiocardiographic techniques. Attention to the detail of preoperative diagnosis from a hemodynamic and anatomic standpoint will avoid many errors usually discovered at the time of surgery.", "PMID": 447182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7935", "title": "Angiocardiography in the pre-operative evaluation of patients with univentricular hearts.", "content": "Diagnosis of the univentricular heart and recognition of its most important variations depends on the establishment of atrial situs, the demonstration of the type and mode of the atrio-ventricular connexion, the identification of the presence or absence of a rudimentary chamber, the establishment of its morphology, together with that of the main chamber, and classification of the arterial connexion. A logical means of demonstrating these features is presented, depending on bronchial visualization, one or possible two injections of contrast medium into the main chamber, followed if necessary by selective injection into the rudimentary chamber, and in exceptional cases, demonstration of the atrial septum by atrial injection. The advantagess of cranio-caudal tilt and oblique projections are discussed in detail.", "contents": "Angiocardiography in the pre-operative evaluation of patients with univentricular hearts. Diagnosis of the univentricular heart and recognition of its most important variations depends on the establishment of atrial situs, the demonstration of the type and mode of the atrio-ventricular connexion, the identification of the presence or absence of a rudimentary chamber, the establishment of its morphology, together with that of the main chamber, and classification of the arterial connexion. A logical means of demonstrating these features is presented, depending on bronchial visualization, one or possible two injections of contrast medium into the main chamber, followed if necessary by selective injection into the rudimentary chamber, and in exceptional cases, demonstration of the atrial septum by atrial injection. The advantagess of cranio-caudal tilt and oblique projections are discussed in detail.", "PMID": 447183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7936", "title": "Echocardiography of atrioventricular valves in patients with univentricular heart.", "content": "M-Mode echocardiography in patients with univentricular heart allows the number and relations of the AV valves to be established. The absence of a posterior septum can be documented with some certainty and in many cases a stradding AV valve suspected. In addition, reduced amplitude of diastolic closure velocity is very suggestive of valve atresia or dysplasia. This information is of practical significance if corrective surgery is planned.", "contents": "Echocardiography of atrioventricular valves in patients with univentricular heart. M-Mode echocardiography in patients with univentricular heart allows the number and relations of the AV valves to be established. The absence of a posterior septum can be documented with some certainty and in many cases a stradding AV valve suspected. In addition, reduced amplitude of diastolic closure velocity is very suggestive of valve atresia or dysplasia. This information is of practical significance if corrective surgery is planned.", "PMID": 447184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7937", "title": "One dimensional echocardiography in univentricular hearts.", "content": "1. Echocardiography is diagnostic for univentricular hearts with two AV-valves. 2. Echocardiography does not substitute catheterization and angiocardiography, it is, however, apt to optimize and to supplement invasive procedures. 3. The number, the relative size, and the function of the AV-valves can be ascertained by echocardiography. 4. The relation of the great arteries may be suggested by transducer direction and position. 5. Echocardiographic measurements are indicative of relative pulmonic flow: Therefore echocardiography should be helpful in follow up studies. 6. Valvar and valvar-subvalvar pulmonic outflow obstructions may be suggested by echocardiography. 7. Septal remnants may be recognized by echocardiography. How significant their demonstration is to outlet chamber definition has still to be clarified.", "contents": "One dimensional echocardiography in univentricular hearts. 1. Echocardiography is diagnostic for univentricular hearts with two AV-valves. 2. Echocardiography does not substitute catheterization and angiocardiography, it is, however, apt to optimize and to supplement invasive procedures. 3. The number, the relative size, and the function of the AV-valves can be ascertained by echocardiography. 4. The relation of the great arteries may be suggested by transducer direction and position. 5. Echocardiographic measurements are indicative of relative pulmonic flow: Therefore echocardiography should be helpful in follow up studies. 6. Valvar and valvar-subvalvar pulmonic outflow obstructions may be suggested by echocardiography. 7. Septal remnants may be recognized by echocardiography. How significant their demonstration is to outlet chamber definition has still to be clarified.", "PMID": 447185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7938", "title": "Abnormal ventricular function in patients with univentricular heart. Cineangiographic study.", "content": "In order to investigate the basis of ventricular dysfunction in patients with univentricular heart, cineangiograms of 20 patients aged between 3 weeks and 22 years were digitized frame by frame and compared with left ventriculograms of patients with other cardiac malformations. Ejection fraction was at least normal (58% to 95%) and peak rate of systolic minor axis shortening was normal in all. However in only 3 patients was the change in volume achieved by virtue of the normal change in cavity shape; in 17 the end-systolic outline was abnormally circular and shape index, 4 pi (area)/(perimeter)2, changed by less than normal (p less than 0.01). In addition, abnormalities of regional wall movement were found in 12 patients. 11 showed a consistent pattern, unlike that found in ischaemic heart disease or other congenital lesions, of delayed systolic inward movement of the antero-apical wall, associated in 9 with hypokinesis. Four of these showed secondary delay of relaxation in the same region. One patient had an isolated abnormality of isovolumic relaxation. These findings were independent of age, volume overload or degree of cyanosis, but were more common in patients with absent atrioventricular connexion. We conclude that the architectural abnormalities in univentricular hearts lead to disturbances of myocardial function which particularly affect the apex. These are detectable from an early age.", "contents": "Abnormal ventricular function in patients with univentricular heart. Cineangiographic study. In order to investigate the basis of ventricular dysfunction in patients with univentricular heart, cineangiograms of 20 patients aged between 3 weeks and 22 years were digitized frame by frame and compared with left ventriculograms of patients with other cardiac malformations. Ejection fraction was at least normal (58% to 95%) and peak rate of systolic minor axis shortening was normal in all. However in only 3 patients was the change in volume achieved by virtue of the normal change in cavity shape; in 17 the end-systolic outline was abnormally circular and shape index, 4 pi (area)/(perimeter)2, changed by less than normal (p less than 0.01). In addition, abnormalities of regional wall movement were found in 12 patients. 11 showed a consistent pattern, unlike that found in ischaemic heart disease or other congenital lesions, of delayed systolic inward movement of the antero-apical wall, associated in 9 with hypokinesis. Four of these showed secondary delay of relaxation in the same region. One patient had an isolated abnormality of isovolumic relaxation. These findings were independent of age, volume overload or degree of cyanosis, but were more common in patients with absent atrioventricular connexion. We conclude that the architectural abnormalities in univentricular hearts lead to disturbances of myocardial function which particularly affect the apex. These are detectable from an early age.", "PMID": 447186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7939", "title": "Intraoperative mapping in patients with univentricular hearts.", "content": "The location of the specialized cardiac conduction system in patients with univentricular hearts may be extremely variable. Electrophysiologic studies during open heart surgery identified the intraventricular conducting tissue to be consistently located in four sites. In patients with univentricular hearts without an outlet chamber, conducting tissue may be located either at 1. along the posterior wall or 2. along the anterior free wall of the ventricle. In patients with univentricular hearts and an outlet chamber, conducting tissue is uusally located anterior and superior to the bulboventricular foramen and then extends towards the atrium either 1. in between the bulboventricular foramen and the pulmonary valve or 2. along the right margin of the pulmonary artery over the anterior free wall of the ventricle towards the junction of the inter-atrial septum and the right atrial appendage. These electrophysiologic studies are consistent with previously described locations of conducting tissue in similar hearts by histologic methods. The different locations of the intraventricular conducting tissues in patients with univentricular hearts demonstrates the valve and the need for electrophysiologic mapping of the specialized cardiac conduction system during surgical repair of univentricular hearts.", "contents": "Intraoperative mapping in patients with univentricular hearts. The location of the specialized cardiac conduction system in patients with univentricular hearts may be extremely variable. Electrophysiologic studies during open heart surgery identified the intraventricular conducting tissue to be consistently located in four sites. In patients with univentricular hearts without an outlet chamber, conducting tissue may be located either at 1. along the posterior wall or 2. along the anterior free wall of the ventricle. In patients with univentricular hearts and an outlet chamber, conducting tissue is uusally located anterior and superior to the bulboventricular foramen and then extends towards the atrium either 1. in between the bulboventricular foramen and the pulmonary valve or 2. along the right margin of the pulmonary artery over the anterior free wall of the ventricle towards the junction of the inter-atrial septum and the right atrial appendage. These electrophysiologic studies are consistent with previously described locations of conducting tissue in similar hearts by histologic methods. The different locations of the intraventricular conducting tissues in patients with univentricular hearts demonstrates the valve and the need for electrophysiologic mapping of the specialized cardiac conduction system during surgical repair of univentricular hearts.", "PMID": 447187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7940", "title": "Electrocardiographic and electrophysiologic studies of the univentricular hearts.", "content": "Tachy- and bradydysrhythmias were found to be common in patients with univentricular hearts. They lead to considerable mortality. Intracardiac electrophysiologic studies may be used in these patients as in patients with normal hearts. It is anticipated that post surgical dysrhythmias will be at least as common after division of univentricular hearts as for more common repairs as tetralogy of Fallot.", "contents": "Electrocardiographic and electrophysiologic studies of the univentricular hearts. Tachy- and bradydysrhythmias were found to be common in patients with univentricular hearts. They lead to considerable mortality. Intracardiac electrophysiologic studies may be used in these patients as in patients with normal hearts. It is anticipated that post surgical dysrhythmias will be at least as common after division of univentricular hearts as for more common repairs as tetralogy of Fallot.", "PMID": 447188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7941", "title": "Haemodynamics studies in patients with univentricular hearts.", "content": "The catheterization data including angiocardiography of 30 infants and children with different types of univentricular heart were used to study the influence of pulmonary and systemic flow as well as the position of the outlet chamber on systemic arterial saturation. All patients with normally connected great arteries displayed favourable streaming and differed significantly from those with 1-TGA as well as d-TGA, who showed varying streaming characteristics. Taking into account, however, the position of the outlet chamber, favourable streaming could be demonstrated to occur in most patients with TGA and lateral outlet chamber, and significantly less in patients with TGA and anterior outlet chamber. The influence of pulmonary and systemic flow on systemic arterial oxygen saturation was obvious only in the group with complete mixing and not in those patients, where arterial saturation was affected favourably or unfavourably by interindividual streaming differences. As expected, in patients with pulmonary stenosis the pulmonary flow was determined primarily by the degree of obstruction between ventricle and pulmonary artery. Reduced perfusion of the lungs in pulmonary stenosis does not result in increased perfusion of the systemic circulation. These results indicate that in patients with univentricular heart and ventriculo-arterial discordance, a pulmonary stenosis combined with lateral outlet chamber offers the most favourable outlook with regard to natural history.", "contents": "Haemodynamics studies in patients with univentricular hearts. The catheterization data including angiocardiography of 30 infants and children with different types of univentricular heart were used to study the influence of pulmonary and systemic flow as well as the position of the outlet chamber on systemic arterial saturation. All patients with normally connected great arteries displayed favourable streaming and differed significantly from those with 1-TGA as well as d-TGA, who showed varying streaming characteristics. Taking into account, however, the position of the outlet chamber, favourable streaming could be demonstrated to occur in most patients with TGA and lateral outlet chamber, and significantly less in patients with TGA and anterior outlet chamber. The influence of pulmonary and systemic flow on systemic arterial oxygen saturation was obvious only in the group with complete mixing and not in those patients, where arterial saturation was affected favourably or unfavourably by interindividual streaming differences. As expected, in patients with pulmonary stenosis the pulmonary flow was determined primarily by the degree of obstruction between ventricle and pulmonary artery. Reduced perfusion of the lungs in pulmonary stenosis does not result in increased perfusion of the systemic circulation. These results indicate that in patients with univentricular heart and ventriculo-arterial discordance, a pulmonary stenosis combined with lateral outlet chamber offers the most favourable outlook with regard to natural history.", "PMID": 447189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7942", "title": "Surgical septation of univentricular heart with outlet chamber.", "content": "From April 1973 through March 1978, 34 patients with univentricular heart and outlet chamber underwent repair by septation of the ventricle. Three had normally related great arteries in which the pulmonary artery arose from the outlet chamber. Six patients had an anterior aorta arising from an anterior or right-sided outlet chamber and 25 patients had an anterior aorta arising from a left-sided outlet chamber. The ages ranged from 3 to 36 years. Fourteen patients had had previous palliative operations. There were 13 hospital deaths and four late deaths. Four patients have a fair result and the remaining 13 patients are in good health clinically. For the more favorable types of univentricular heart with outlet chamber on the left and natural pulmonary stenosis, the risk of corrective operation is less than 20 percent. The improved clinical course of those patients who have survived and done well gives encouragement that continued refinements in the operative repair of univentricular heart should ultimately provide many of these patients with a good result.", "contents": "Surgical septation of univentricular heart with outlet chamber. From April 1973 through March 1978, 34 patients with univentricular heart and outlet chamber underwent repair by septation of the ventricle. Three had normally related great arteries in which the pulmonary artery arose from the outlet chamber. Six patients had an anterior aorta arising from an anterior or right-sided outlet chamber and 25 patients had an anterior aorta arising from a left-sided outlet chamber. The ages ranged from 3 to 36 years. Fourteen patients had had previous palliative operations. There were 13 hospital deaths and four late deaths. Four patients have a fair result and the remaining 13 patients are in good health clinically. For the more favorable types of univentricular heart with outlet chamber on the left and natural pulmonary stenosis, the risk of corrective operation is less than 20 percent. The improved clinical course of those patients who have survived and done well gives encouragement that continued refinements in the operative repair of univentricular heart should ultimately provide many of these patients with a good result.", "PMID": 447190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7943", "title": "Different concepts of univentricular heart. Experimental embryological approach.", "content": "A brief historical review of the main descriptions, definitions, classifications and nomenclatures of the univentricular heart within the historical context of the evolution of the technical and scientific knowledge, is made. The development of the ventricles and particularly the posterior interventricular septum (posterior smooth plus posterior trabeculated septa), were studied experimentally in the chick embryo, by the vivo labelling technics, since they are very important for the definition of the univentricular heart. It was demonstrated: 1. In the apical region of the embryonic heart only a primitive interventricular septum develops and this gives origin to the posterior interventricular septum. 2. The walls of the bulbus cordis and the primitive ventricle adjacent to the primitive interventricular septum contribute to the development of this septum. 3. Cell division and cell movement are the basic processes of development which seem to take part in the development of the posterior interventricular septum.", "contents": "Different concepts of univentricular heart. Experimental embryological approach. A brief historical review of the main descriptions, definitions, classifications and nomenclatures of the univentricular heart within the historical context of the evolution of the technical and scientific knowledge, is made. The development of the ventricles and particularly the posterior interventricular septum (posterior smooth plus posterior trabeculated septa), were studied experimentally in the chick embryo, by the vivo labelling technics, since they are very important for the definition of the univentricular heart. It was demonstrated: 1. In the apical region of the embryonic heart only a primitive interventricular septum develops and this gives origin to the posterior interventricular septum. 2. The walls of the bulbus cordis and the primitive ventricle adjacent to the primitive interventricular septum contribute to the development of this septum. 3. Cell division and cell movement are the basic processes of development which seem to take part in the development of the posterior interventricular septum.", "PMID": 447191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7944", "title": "Changing scene in cardiac embryology.", "content": "Recent significant advances in experimental embryology and experimental teratology of the heart contribute to the renaissance in studies of cardiac development. Examples taken from the author's laboratory demonstrate the need for reference points in the description of heart morphogenesis and speak against the existence of conus resorption. The discovery of animal models of congenital heart disease, e.g. Keeshond dog or fetal mouse trisomy, represent another promising opening in studies of pathogenesis of heart anomalies. To permit a reasonable understanding of the univentricular heart following basic questions need to be answered: a) what is the origin of its rudimentary cavity, b) what is the origin of its incomplete muscular septum, c) why are one or both great vessels attached to the rudimentary chamber, d) what determines the position of the rudimentary chamber and e) why may the great vessels be normally or abnormally arranged? The experimental analysis of the proliferative and growth pattern of the right ventricle as well as the studies on embryonic hemodynamic factors are presented as examples of how to approach these fundamental questions.", "contents": "Changing scene in cardiac embryology. Recent significant advances in experimental embryology and experimental teratology of the heart contribute to the renaissance in studies of cardiac development. Examples taken from the author's laboratory demonstrate the need for reference points in the description of heart morphogenesis and speak against the existence of conus resorption. The discovery of animal models of congenital heart disease, e.g. Keeshond dog or fetal mouse trisomy, represent another promising opening in studies of pathogenesis of heart anomalies. To permit a reasonable understanding of the univentricular heart following basic questions need to be answered: a) what is the origin of its rudimentary cavity, b) what is the origin of its incomplete muscular septum, c) why are one or both great vessels attached to the rudimentary chamber, d) what determines the position of the rudimentary chamber and e) why may the great vessels be normally or abnormally arranged? The experimental analysis of the proliferative and growth pattern of the right ventricle as well as the studies on embryonic hemodynamic factors are presented as examples of how to approach these fundamental questions.", "PMID": 447192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7945", "title": "Embryology of the univentricular heart.", "content": "Controversies remain concerning the nomenclature, nature and pathogenesis of the various forms of univentricular heart. Common ventricle may well represent a very large ventricular septal defect while the nature of the indeterminate or nonspecific form of univentricular heart remains in doubt. Univentricular heart, right ventricular type, could be ascribed to overshift of the embryonic atrioventricular canal to the right, resulting in both atrioventricular ostia entering a large ventricular chamber which has the morphological characteristics of a right ventricle. In univentricular heart, left ventricular type on the other hand, the rightward shift of the atrioventricular canal appears to have failed or remained incomplete, possibly due to an abnormal position of the atrioventricular canal relative to the bulboventricular septum. Normal septation of the atrioventricular canal results in both atrioventricular ostia giving access to a large ventricle which in the main has the morphological features of a left ventricle.", "contents": "Embryology of the univentricular heart. Controversies remain concerning the nomenclature, nature and pathogenesis of the various forms of univentricular heart. Common ventricle may well represent a very large ventricular septal defect while the nature of the indeterminate or nonspecific form of univentricular heart remains in doubt. Univentricular heart, right ventricular type, could be ascribed to overshift of the embryonic atrioventricular canal to the right, resulting in both atrioventricular ostia entering a large ventricular chamber which has the morphological characteristics of a right ventricle. In univentricular heart, left ventricular type on the other hand, the rightward shift of the atrioventricular canal appears to have failed or remained incomplete, possibly due to an abnormal position of the atrioventricular canal relative to the bulboventricular septum. Normal septation of the atrioventricular canal results in both atrioventricular ostia giving access to a large ventricle which in the main has the morphological features of a left ventricle.", "PMID": 447193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7946", "title": "Formation of the heart loop and proliferation structure of its wall as a base for ventricular septation.", "content": "Controversial criteria for definition and classification of univentricular hearts are discussed from the point of view of proliferation pattern in the wall of heart tube and heart loop stage. The persistence of the primitive diffuse proliferation structure is the condition for the development of univentricular heart in which the morphogenetic mechanism forming the ventricular septum does not operate. Pseudouniventricular heart, i.e. the heart with the large main chamber accompanied by a small accessory cavity, is the result of total or partial right or left hypoplasia in which the extent of operation of the above mentioned mechanism is determined by the degree of ventricular hypoplasy. The morphogenesis of the heart wall structure and relief including the atrioventricular and arterial valves is a secondary feature, mostly dependent on the changed hemodynamic conditions.", "contents": "Formation of the heart loop and proliferation structure of its wall as a base for ventricular septation. Controversial criteria for definition and classification of univentricular hearts are discussed from the point of view of proliferation pattern in the wall of heart tube and heart loop stage. The persistence of the primitive diffuse proliferation structure is the condition for the development of univentricular heart in which the morphogenetic mechanism forming the ventricular septum does not operate. Pseudouniventricular heart, i.e. the heart with the large main chamber accompanied by a small accessory cavity, is the result of total or partial right or left hypoplasia in which the extent of operation of the above mentioned mechanism is determined by the degree of ventricular hypoplasy. The morphogenesis of the heart wall structure and relief including the atrioventricular and arterial valves is a secondary feature, mostly dependent on the changed hemodynamic conditions.", "PMID": 447194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7947", "title": "Experimental creation of univentricular heart in the chick embryo.", "content": "An experimental study on the heart of the chick embryo demonstrates that the atrio-ventricular canal does not migrate towards the right, but that it is the inter-ampullar ring which almost completely migrates to the left. Consequently: 1. absence of migration of the interampullar ring will be responsible for the development of type A univentricular heart with an accessory chamber; 2. incomplete migration will result in a special type in which the right atrioventricular orifice overrides the septum; 3. excessive migration may be the explanation for the development of type B univentricular heart; 4. lacking or incomplete development of the inter-ampullar ring is the cause for the development of type C or D univentricular heart. In most of the cases, the univentricular heat can be considered the result of arrest of the normal embryogenesis at a more or less early state.", "contents": "Experimental creation of univentricular heart in the chick embryo. An experimental study on the heart of the chick embryo demonstrates that the atrio-ventricular canal does not migrate towards the right, but that it is the inter-ampullar ring which almost completely migrates to the left. Consequently: 1. absence of migration of the interampullar ring will be responsible for the development of type A univentricular heart with an accessory chamber; 2. incomplete migration will result in a special type in which the right atrioventricular orifice overrides the septum; 3. excessive migration may be the explanation for the development of type B univentricular heart; 4. lacking or incomplete development of the inter-ampullar ring is the cause for the development of type C or D univentricular heart. In most of the cases, the univentricular heat can be considered the result of arrest of the normal embryogenesis at a more or less early state.", "PMID": 447195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7948", "title": "Problems in the nomenclature of the univentricular heart.", "content": "There are three main reasons why there are problems concerning the nomenclature of the univentricular heart. The first is that different authorities have used the same term to describe different varieties of the univentricular heart. The second is that many of the terms used in categorisation of these anomalies are derived from embryological concepts which are more or less speculative. The final reason, perhaps the major one, is that there is a lack of definition of a ventricle. Consequently there is no consensus as to precisely what constitutes a \"univentricular\" heart. Many of the heart described as \"single\" or \"common\" ventricle possess two chambers within their ventricular mass. For such hearts to be univentricular it is evident that one of these chambers cannot be a ventricle. Yet definitions have yet to be provided to distinguish ventricles from rudimentary chambers. The solutions to these problems can be produced firstly by using descriptive terms for categorisation of univentricular hearts which do not have multiple meanings. Secondly, the problems concerning usage of embryologic terms can be easily circumvented by eschewing all embryologic considerations in naming these malformations. The problem of definition of a ventricle is best solved by considering normal ventricles as possessing three portions -- an inlet portion, a trabecular portion and an outlet portion. It may then be proposed that the minimal requirements for a ventricle are that it possesses at least an inlet and a trabecular portion. Chambers without inlet portions are rudimentary chambers. Either ventricles or rudimentary chambers may possess a trabecular pattern of right or left ventricular type. Tue univentricular heart may then be categorised as composing all anomalies which have a sole chamber in their ventricular mass together with all anomalies which possess a rudimentary chamber.", "contents": "Problems in the nomenclature of the univentricular heart. There are three main reasons why there are problems concerning the nomenclature of the univentricular heart. The first is that different authorities have used the same term to describe different varieties of the univentricular heart. The second is that many of the terms used in categorisation of these anomalies are derived from embryological concepts which are more or less speculative. The final reason, perhaps the major one, is that there is a lack of definition of a ventricle. Consequently there is no consensus as to precisely what constitutes a \"univentricular\" heart. Many of the heart described as \"single\" or \"common\" ventricle possess two chambers within their ventricular mass. For such hearts to be univentricular it is evident that one of these chambers cannot be a ventricle. Yet definitions have yet to be provided to distinguish ventricles from rudimentary chambers. The solutions to these problems can be produced firstly by using descriptive terms for categorisation of univentricular hearts which do not have multiple meanings. Secondly, the problems concerning usage of embryologic terms can be easily circumvented by eschewing all embryologic considerations in naming these malformations. The problem of definition of a ventricle is best solved by considering normal ventricles as possessing three portions -- an inlet portion, a trabecular portion and an outlet portion. It may then be proposed that the minimal requirements for a ventricle are that it possesses at least an inlet and a trabecular portion. Chambers without inlet portions are rudimentary chambers. Either ventricles or rudimentary chambers may possess a trabecular pattern of right or left ventricular type. Tue univentricular heart may then be categorised as composing all anomalies which have a sole chamber in their ventricular mass together with all anomalies which possess a rudimentary chamber.", "PMID": 447196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7949", "title": "Determination of insulin antibodies.", "content": "Insulin antibodies were determined as percentage binding of 125I-insulin in the sera of normal persons and of diabetic subjects treated and untreated with insulin. The effect of the dilution of the serum, circulating insulin and extraction of free and total insulin was evaluated. The determination of insulin antibodies in samples at a final dilution of 1:10 clearly discriminated between insulin-treated and untreated subjects. In insulin-treated subjects, the determination of insulin antibodies in samples at a final dilution of 1:100 gave false-negative results in 28 per cent. However, the determination of insulin antibodies at a final dilution of 1:100 discriminated between insulin-resistant and non-resistant diabetic subjects. Extraction of total insulin at pH 3.0 using 0.1 N HCl increased the percentage of 125I-insulin binding significantly. Extraction of free insulin by charcoal from the samples did not increase the binding of 125I-insulin. The injection of crystalline insulin 4 hours prior to withdrawing the samples did not decrease binding of 125I-insulin.", "contents": "Determination of insulin antibodies. Insulin antibodies were determined as percentage binding of 125I-insulin in the sera of normal persons and of diabetic subjects treated and untreated with insulin. The effect of the dilution of the serum, circulating insulin and extraction of free and total insulin was evaluated. The determination of insulin antibodies in samples at a final dilution of 1:10 clearly discriminated between insulin-treated and untreated subjects. In insulin-treated subjects, the determination of insulin antibodies in samples at a final dilution of 1:100 gave false-negative results in 28 per cent. However, the determination of insulin antibodies at a final dilution of 1:100 discriminated between insulin-resistant and non-resistant diabetic subjects. Extraction of total insulin at pH 3.0 using 0.1 N HCl increased the percentage of 125I-insulin binding significantly. Extraction of free insulin by charcoal from the samples did not increase the binding of 125I-insulin. The injection of crystalline insulin 4 hours prior to withdrawing the samples did not decrease binding of 125I-insulin.", "PMID": 447197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7950", "title": "Studies with crystalline insulin from obese and lean mice of the BL/6J strain.", "content": "Crystalline insulin was extracted and purified from the pancreases of obese (BL/6J/-ob/ob) and lean mice (BL/6J and BL/6J-ob/+). The two insulin preparations were compared with respect to their radioimmunologic properties as well as their ability to stimulate glucose metabolism in rat epididymal adipocytes and epididymal adipose tissue from obese and lean mice. No significant differences could be seen between the two insulin preparations and thus an insulin of altered biological properties is not likely to be an adequate explanation for the symptoms observed in the obese mouse.", "contents": "Studies with crystalline insulin from obese and lean mice of the BL/6J strain. Crystalline insulin was extracted and purified from the pancreases of obese (BL/6J/-ob/ob) and lean mice (BL/6J and BL/6J-ob/+). The two insulin preparations were compared with respect to their radioimmunologic properties as well as their ability to stimulate glucose metabolism in rat epididymal adipocytes and epididymal adipose tissue from obese and lean mice. No significant differences could be seen between the two insulin preparations and thus an insulin of altered biological properties is not likely to be an adequate explanation for the symptoms observed in the obese mouse.", "PMID": 447199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7951", "title": "Insulin antagonism in cultured rat myoblasts secondary to chronic exposure to insulin.", "content": "Rat myoblasts grown in culture for 5 days responded acutely to insulin (10 mU/ml) over a 3 hour incubation period by stimulating C14-glucose incorporation into glycogen by 260%. When these cells were grown in the presence of insulin (10 mU/ml) for the first 4 days (no exposure to insulin during the final 24 hours), insulin had no significant acute effect. These data provide direct evidence that insulation itself may induce antagonism under certain conditions.", "contents": "Insulin antagonism in cultured rat myoblasts secondary to chronic exposure to insulin. Rat myoblasts grown in culture for 5 days responded acutely to insulin (10 mU/ml) over a 3 hour incubation period by stimulating C14-glucose incorporation into glycogen by 260%. When these cells were grown in the presence of insulin (10 mU/ml) for the first 4 days (no exposure to insulin during the final 24 hours), insulin had no significant acute effect. These data provide direct evidence that insulation itself may induce antagonism under certain conditions.", "PMID": 447200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7952", "title": "Comparison of the effects of insulin and insulin-like agents on different aspects of adipocyte metabolism.", "content": "The effect of insulin, spermine, cysteine, and diamide on glucose transport, glucose oxidation, and lipolysis were compared using isolated rat adipocytes. Each agent exerted insulin-like effects on glucose transport and glucose oxidation, whereas spermine and cysteine, but not diamide, inhibited lipolysis. Furthermore, the relative potencies of these agents on the various insulin responsive processes were markedly different. Thus, although these agents have much in common with insulin, the differences in relative potencies suggest that at least some of the insulin-like properties of these compounds may not be exerted through the same mechanisms as insulin.", "contents": "Comparison of the effects of insulin and insulin-like agents on different aspects of adipocyte metabolism. The effect of insulin, spermine, cysteine, and diamide on glucose transport, glucose oxidation, and lipolysis were compared using isolated rat adipocytes. Each agent exerted insulin-like effects on glucose transport and glucose oxidation, whereas spermine and cysteine, but not diamide, inhibited lipolysis. Furthermore, the relative potencies of these agents on the various insulin responsive processes were markedly different. Thus, although these agents have much in common with insulin, the differences in relative potencies suggest that at least some of the insulin-like properties of these compounds may not be exerted through the same mechanisms as insulin.", "PMID": 447201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7953", "title": "Anomeric specificity in the response of gut glucagon-like immunoreactive materials to glucose.", "content": "An anomeric specificity of the glucose sensors of A cells and B cells of the pancreas has been reported. In this context the present authors investigated, using the canine intestinal loop prepared from the terminal portion of the ileum, how glucagon-like immunoreactive materials (GLI) of the gut would respond to glucose anomers in an attempt to explore a possible anomeric specificity of glucose-stimulated gut GLI secretion. As a result GLI was found to be more readily released into the blood stream after an intestinal alpha-glucose load than following beta-gluocse during a 15-minute observation period. It is thus suggested that gut GLI-secreting cells have glucose sensors similar to those of pancreatic A or B cells which are specific for the alpha-glucose anomer.", "contents": "Anomeric specificity in the response of gut glucagon-like immunoreactive materials to glucose. An anomeric specificity of the glucose sensors of A cells and B cells of the pancreas has been reported. In this context the present authors investigated, using the canine intestinal loop prepared from the terminal portion of the ileum, how glucagon-like immunoreactive materials (GLI) of the gut would respond to glucose anomers in an attempt to explore a possible anomeric specificity of glucose-stimulated gut GLI secretion. As a result GLI was found to be more readily released into the blood stream after an intestinal alpha-glucose load than following beta-gluocse during a 15-minute observation period. It is thus suggested that gut GLI-secreting cells have glucose sensors similar to those of pancreatic A or B cells which are specific for the alpha-glucose anomer.", "PMID": 447202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7954", "title": "Cimetidine effects on prolactin release and production.", "content": "The effect of cimetidine 1600 mg. daily for three months on prolactin and related hormones is reported. Basal prolactin levels rose slightly but not significantly. There was no change in basal thyroid and sex hormone levels nor in the prolactin, gonadotrophin or thyrotrophin responses to releasing hormone stimulation. Since intravenous cimetidine induces a transient hyperprolactinemia it appears that cimetidine may facilitate release of prolactin but has no effect on its synthesis.", "contents": "Cimetidine effects on prolactin release and production. The effect of cimetidine 1600 mg. daily for three months on prolactin and related hormones is reported. Basal prolactin levels rose slightly but not significantly. There was no change in basal thyroid and sex hormone levels nor in the prolactin, gonadotrophin or thyrotrophin responses to releasing hormone stimulation. Since intravenous cimetidine induces a transient hyperprolactinemia it appears that cimetidine may facilitate release of prolactin but has no effect on its synthesis.", "PMID": 447203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7955", "title": "Postnatal maturation patterns of serum corticosterone and growth hormone in rats: effect of chronic thyroxine administration.", "content": "The effects of chronic neonatal hyperthyroidism in rats on the ontogenic pattern of serum corticosterone and growth hormone (GH) were studied. Thyroxine (T4) treated and saline injected rat pups were sacrificed under basal and stress conditions. In comparison to saline control animals, daily T4 administration (0.4 micrograms/gram body weight) produced a sustained elevation in basal corticosterone levels by day 12 and a significant elevation of serum corticosterone in response to stress by day 4. The serum GH levels in non-stressed animals were moderately decreased in response to T4 administration as compared to saline injected animals with a greater reduction in GH measured in samples obtained from stressed animals. The results indicate that chronic T4 administration influences the developmental pattern of serum corticosterone and GH under both non-stress and stress conditions.", "contents": "Postnatal maturation patterns of serum corticosterone and growth hormone in rats: effect of chronic thyroxine administration. The effects of chronic neonatal hyperthyroidism in rats on the ontogenic pattern of serum corticosterone and growth hormone (GH) were studied. Thyroxine (T4) treated and saline injected rat pups were sacrificed under basal and stress conditions. In comparison to saline control animals, daily T4 administration (0.4 micrograms/gram body weight) produced a sustained elevation in basal corticosterone levels by day 12 and a significant elevation of serum corticosterone in response to stress by day 4. The serum GH levels in non-stressed animals were moderately decreased in response to T4 administration as compared to saline injected animals with a greater reduction in GH measured in samples obtained from stressed animals. The results indicate that chronic T4 administration influences the developmental pattern of serum corticosterone and GH under both non-stress and stress conditions.", "PMID": 447204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7956", "title": "Uptake and metabolism of exogenous and endogenous thyroxine in the brain of young rats.", "content": "The uptake of labelled exogenous thyroxine by the brain was determined in 10- and 30-day-old rats. It was three times higher and thyroxine was more deiodinated on day 10 than on day 30. On the other hand, the endogenous hormonal iodine content was estimated in both the brain and the isolated cortical neurones in the young rats of the same ages equilibrated with 125I. On day 10, brain and neurones contained five times more thyroid hormones than on day 30. These results are discussed in the context of the relations previously discovered between development of thyroid function and brain maturation.", "contents": "Uptake and metabolism of exogenous and endogenous thyroxine in the brain of young rats. The uptake of labelled exogenous thyroxine by the brain was determined in 10- and 30-day-old rats. It was three times higher and thyroxine was more deiodinated on day 10 than on day 30. On the other hand, the endogenous hormonal iodine content was estimated in both the brain and the isolated cortical neurones in the young rats of the same ages equilibrated with 125I. On day 10, brain and neurones contained five times more thyroid hormones than on day 30. These results are discussed in the context of the relations previously discovered between development of thyroid function and brain maturation.", "PMID": 447205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7957", "title": "Plasma concentration of antidiuretic hormone in patients with chronic renal insufficiency on maintenance dialysis.", "content": "Radioimmunoassay of plasma arginine-vasopressin (AVP) in regularly dialyzed patients with chronic renal insufficiency revealed a parallel increase of AVP and plasma osmolality (POsm) before dialysis (4.16 +/- 0.36 pg/ml and 312.6 +/- 1.80 mOsm/1) and their parallel declin to the normal range (1.93 +/- 0.27 pg/ml and 292.0 +/- 1.27 mOsm/1) during dialysis. Plasma AVP correlated with POsm before and after dialysis (r = 0.611 and 0.453, p less than 0.01 and less than 0.05 respectively). The increase of AVP before dialysis was lower than would correspond to the rise of POsm and lower than that recorded in healthy subjects during dehydration. Statistical correlation between plasma AVP and indicators of body fluid volume changes between or during dialysis were not proved. We found statistical correlation between the mean blood pressure and AVP before dialysis (r = 0.468, p less than 0.05). These findings suggest that in chronic renal insufficiency changes of POsm remain primary regulating factor of AVP secretion. The expansion of extracellular fluid volume has probably only a modifying effect. It remains to be elucidated whether the revealed statistical relationship between the mean blood pressure and AVP before dialysis plays also a pathogenetic role in the development of hypertension in chronic renal insufficiency.", "contents": "Plasma concentration of antidiuretic hormone in patients with chronic renal insufficiency on maintenance dialysis. Radioimmunoassay of plasma arginine-vasopressin (AVP) in regularly dialyzed patients with chronic renal insufficiency revealed a parallel increase of AVP and plasma osmolality (POsm) before dialysis (4.16 +/- 0.36 pg/ml and 312.6 +/- 1.80 mOsm/1) and their parallel declin to the normal range (1.93 +/- 0.27 pg/ml and 292.0 +/- 1.27 mOsm/1) during dialysis. Plasma AVP correlated with POsm before and after dialysis (r = 0.611 and 0.453, p less than 0.01 and less than 0.05 respectively). The increase of AVP before dialysis was lower than would correspond to the rise of POsm and lower than that recorded in healthy subjects during dehydration. Statistical correlation between plasma AVP and indicators of body fluid volume changes between or during dialysis were not proved. We found statistical correlation between the mean blood pressure and AVP before dialysis (r = 0.468, p less than 0.05). These findings suggest that in chronic renal insufficiency changes of POsm remain primary regulating factor of AVP secretion. The expansion of extracellular fluid volume has probably only a modifying effect. It remains to be elucidated whether the revealed statistical relationship between the mean blood pressure and AVP before dialysis plays also a pathogenetic role in the development of hypertension in chronic renal insufficiency.", "PMID": 447206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7958", "title": "Plasma catecholamine and parathyroid hormone responses in cattle during treadmill exercise at simulated high altitude.", "content": "When steers were exposed to treadmill exercise at a simulated altitude of 3500 m, plasma concentrations of epinephrine and norepinephrine as well as of parathyroid hormone increased within minutes. Heart rate, erythrocyte number and plasma lactic acid level rose at the same time, whereas plasma free fatty acids showed a later increase. It is concluded, that the elevated parathyroid hormone levels were probably caused by sympathetic stimulation.", "contents": "Plasma catecholamine and parathyroid hormone responses in cattle during treadmill exercise at simulated high altitude. When steers were exposed to treadmill exercise at a simulated altitude of 3500 m, plasma concentrations of epinephrine and norepinephrine as well as of parathyroid hormone increased within minutes. Heart rate, erythrocyte number and plasma lactic acid level rose at the same time, whereas plasma free fatty acids showed a later increase. It is concluded, that the elevated parathyroid hormone levels were probably caused by sympathetic stimulation.", "PMID": 447207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7959", "title": "Organ culture of mammalian testis. III. Inhibin secretion.", "content": "Mouse testes were cultured for 19--20 days at either 31 or 37 degrees C with a change of medium every 4 days. After treatment with charcoal and dextran T, the recovered testis media were incubated with rat anterior pituitary cells, and secretions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were estimated by radioimmunoassay 3 days later. FSH release was significantly lowered when pituitary cells were grown with media of testes cultured 31 degrees C compared to cultures grown with fresh medium or with media of testes cultured at 37 degrees C for more than 4 days. LH secretion was normal in one experiment and reduced in the other with the media of testes cultured at 31 degrees C. Treatment of testicular media by heat or trypsin reduced the inhibiting activity. After 8 days at 37 degrees C, both germinal and Sertoli cells were damaged in the testis cultures, while at 31 degrees germinal cells alone were destroyed, Sertoli cells remained normal. These studies suggest that (1) a substance which responds to the definition of inhibition (protein--preferentially acting on FSH) is secreted in the medium of testis culture; (2) inhibin is produced by Sertoli cells; (3) inhibin is secreted only if the temperature is inferior to 37 degrees C.", "contents": "Organ culture of mammalian testis. III. Inhibin secretion. Mouse testes were cultured for 19--20 days at either 31 or 37 degrees C with a change of medium every 4 days. After treatment with charcoal and dextran T, the recovered testis media were incubated with rat anterior pituitary cells, and secretions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were estimated by radioimmunoassay 3 days later. FSH release was significantly lowered when pituitary cells were grown with media of testes cultured 31 degrees C compared to cultures grown with fresh medium or with media of testes cultured at 37 degrees C for more than 4 days. LH secretion was normal in one experiment and reduced in the other with the media of testes cultured at 31 degrees C. Treatment of testicular media by heat or trypsin reduced the inhibiting activity. After 8 days at 37 degrees C, both germinal and Sertoli cells were damaged in the testis cultures, while at 31 degrees germinal cells alone were destroyed, Sertoli cells remained normal. These studies suggest that (1) a substance which responds to the definition of inhibition (protein--preferentially acting on FSH) is secreted in the medium of testis culture; (2) inhibin is produced by Sertoli cells; (3) inhibin is secreted only if the temperature is inferior to 37 degrees C.", "PMID": 447213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7960", "title": "Hormonal influence on uterine lipids.", "content": "The effects of oestrogen (OE), progesterone (P) and oestrogen plus progesterone (OEPP) on uterine lipids of adult ovariectomized rats were studied. Administration of gonodal hormones brought about considerable alterations in total lipids, mainly due to an increase in phospholipids and glycerides in the case of OE and P groups. Even though the total cholesterol remained unaltered, a marked alteration in its fractions was evident in all the groups. Oestrogen seems to decrease all the glyceride classes while progesterone induces accumulation ot triglycerides with concomitant decrease in mono- and diglycerides. Individual classes of phospholipids show marked alterations in their distribution in all the groups studied.", "contents": "Hormonal influence on uterine lipids. The effects of oestrogen (OE), progesterone (P) and oestrogen plus progesterone (OEPP) on uterine lipids of adult ovariectomized rats were studied. Administration of gonodal hormones brought about considerable alterations in total lipids, mainly due to an increase in phospholipids and glycerides in the case of OE and P groups. Even though the total cholesterol remained unaltered, a marked alteration in its fractions was evident in all the groups. Oestrogen seems to decrease all the glyceride classes while progesterone induces accumulation ot triglycerides with concomitant decrease in mono- and diglycerides. Individual classes of phospholipids show marked alterations in their distribution in all the groups studied.", "PMID": 447214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7961", "title": "Informed consent: special problems for psychiatry.", "content": "There is a growing demand for more patient autonomy in the doctor-patient relationship, and legal reformers believe that an expanded dodctrine of informed consent is the key to change. Informed consent is meant to force the doctor to give the patient the knowledge that will make his an equal bargaining partner. However, most evidence demonstrates that the majority of patients do not comprehend or retain medical information. Further, the legal doctrine of informed consent has never been coherently worked out. Informed consent in psychiatry is particularly complicated, because of the constitutional implications of right-to-refuse-treatment litigation and because patients may be incompetent to give informed consent as a result of their illness. One of the special problems for psychiatry is that complex consent requirements have been mandated by those who oppose certain somatic therapies. The author discusses the implications of these legal developments. He lists the kinds of informed-consent and refusal-to-consent situatons psychiatrists face and comments briefly on the most troublesome.", "contents": "Informed consent: special problems for psychiatry. There is a growing demand for more patient autonomy in the doctor-patient relationship, and legal reformers believe that an expanded dodctrine of informed consent is the key to change. Informed consent is meant to force the doctor to give the patient the knowledge that will make his an equal bargaining partner. However, most evidence demonstrates that the majority of patients do not comprehend or retain medical information. Further, the legal doctrine of informed consent has never been coherently worked out. Informed consent in psychiatry is particularly complicated, because of the constitutional implications of right-to-refuse-treatment litigation and because patients may be incompetent to give informed consent as a result of their illness. One of the special problems for psychiatry is that complex consent requirements have been mandated by those who oppose certain somatic therapies. The author discusses the implications of these legal developments. He lists the kinds of informed-consent and refusal-to-consent situatons psychiatrists face and comments briefly on the most troublesome.", "PMID": 447217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7962", "title": "A comparative study of Asian FMG and USMG psychiatrists.", "content": "Of 367 East Asian and South Asian psychiatrists responding to a 1976 survey, 295 were identified as foreign medical graduates (FMGs) and 72 as U.S. medical graduates. Comparison of the two groups showed that the FMG'S WERE MORE LIKEly to be trained and employed in state mental hospitals and other nonacademic settings and to treat patients of other minorities. The Asian FMGs were less likely to have specialty board certification, a finding that seems to reflect their incomplete professional development and American acculturation. The authors conclude that Asian FMG psychiatrists shoulder much of the responsibility for treating minority patients in the United States, a job for which they may be ill equipped. Their need for special training in both cultural and professional areas is emphasized.", "contents": "A comparative study of Asian FMG and USMG psychiatrists. Of 367 East Asian and South Asian psychiatrists responding to a 1976 survey, 295 were identified as foreign medical graduates (FMGs) and 72 as U.S. medical graduates. Comparison of the two groups showed that the FMG'S WERE MORE LIKEly to be trained and employed in state mental hospitals and other nonacademic settings and to treat patients of other minorities. The Asian FMGs were less likely to have specialty board certification, a finding that seems to reflect their incomplete professional development and American acculturation. The authors conclude that Asian FMG psychiatrists shoulder much of the responsibility for treating minority patients in the United States, a job for which they may be ill equipped. Their need for special training in both cultural and professional areas is emphasized.", "PMID": 447218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7963", "title": "Phasing down state hospitals: integrated versus nonintegrated services.", "content": "Two mental health catchment areas in Massachusetts that were in the process of phasing down state hospitals and building up community care provided an opportunity for studying the effectiveness of an integrated service delivery model and a nonintegrated model. The area that integrated state hospital and community services was more successful in the phase-down. It had a lower admission rate, the patients who were readmitted did not stay as long, and patients discharged spent more time in the community. Specific adminstrative and clinical structures that facilitated the patients' progress included investing community-based, administrative authority in one person; having a centralized intake and referral system; and using case managers to follow the clients through the service delivery system.", "contents": "Phasing down state hospitals: integrated versus nonintegrated services. Two mental health catchment areas in Massachusetts that were in the process of phasing down state hospitals and building up community care provided an opportunity for studying the effectiveness of an integrated service delivery model and a nonintegrated model. The area that integrated state hospital and community services was more successful in the phase-down. It had a lower admission rate, the patients who were readmitted did not stay as long, and patients discharged spent more time in the community. Specific adminstrative and clinical structures that facilitated the patients' progress included investing community-based, administrative authority in one person; having a centralized intake and referral system; and using case managers to follow the clients through the service delivery system.", "PMID": 447219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7964", "title": "The family as partner in the treatment of mental illness.", "content": "Believing that families are a valuable yet virtually untapped resource in treating and rehabilitating the mentally ill, the author surveyed 89 people to find out how they coped with their relative's long-term illness. Through trial and error, such families have developed a wealth of information about how to live with and manage chronic patients. The author also investiaged the types of service and supports families need. She urges professionals to begin dealing with relatives as allies instead of adversaries and to devise new modalities that make them collaborators in the treatment process.", "contents": "The family as partner in the treatment of mental illness. Believing that families are a valuable yet virtually untapped resource in treating and rehabilitating the mentally ill, the author surveyed 89 people to find out how they coped with their relative's long-term illness. Through trial and error, such families have developed a wealth of information about how to live with and manage chronic patients. The author also investiaged the types of service and supports families need. She urges professionals to begin dealing with relatives as allies instead of adversaries and to devise new modalities that make them collaborators in the treatment process.", "PMID": 447220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7965", "title": "Environmental interventions and therapeutic outcome.", "content": "An eveluation study to determine whether intensive environmental interventions for individual patients help their psychotherapeutic progress was conducted at a community mental health center serving a multi-ethnic, inner-city catchment area with multiple social stressors. Using the Kiresuk-Sherman goal attainment scaling method for therapeutic and environmental goals, researchers analyzed outcome levels of a random sample of 150 patients. Ninety-two of those patients received both psychotherapeutic and environmental interventions, 37 received only psychotherapy, and 21 received only environmental interventions. Evaluation indicated that environmental goal attainment effectively predicted therapeutic outcome among high-, moderate-, and low-success groups.", "contents": "Environmental interventions and therapeutic outcome. An eveluation study to determine whether intensive environmental interventions for individual patients help their psychotherapeutic progress was conducted at a community mental health center serving a multi-ethnic, inner-city catchment area with multiple social stressors. Using the Kiresuk-Sherman goal attainment scaling method for therapeutic and environmental goals, researchers analyzed outcome levels of a random sample of 150 patients. Ninety-two of those patients received both psychotherapeutic and environmental interventions, 37 received only psychotherapy, and 21 received only environmental interventions. Evaluation indicated that environmental goal attainment effectively predicted therapeutic outcome among high-, moderate-, and low-success groups.", "PMID": 447221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7966", "title": "Assessing consumer satisfaction from letters to the hospital.", "content": "A private psychiatric hospital's evaluation research unit assessed consumer satisfaction with service by analyzing the content of letters written in response to an invitation to comment on the hospital experience. Respondents included relatives and referring agents of those who had received treatment. They expressed greatest satisfication with the helpfulness of the hospital, general patient care, and the quality of the clinical staff. They expressed much dissatisfaction with communication, such as adequacy of information about patients' treatment and progress, and with management rules and procedures. The analysis showed that the older the patient and the fewer the number of previous hospitalizations, the greater was the satisfaction expressed.", "contents": "Assessing consumer satisfaction from letters to the hospital. A private psychiatric hospital's evaluation research unit assessed consumer satisfaction with service by analyzing the content of letters written in response to an invitation to comment on the hospital experience. Respondents included relatives and referring agents of those who had received treatment. They expressed greatest satisfication with the helpfulness of the hospital, general patient care, and the quality of the clinical staff. They expressed much dissatisfaction with communication, such as adequacy of information about patients' treatment and progress, and with management rules and procedures. The analysis showed that the older the patient and the fewer the number of previous hospitalizations, the greater was the satisfaction expressed.", "PMID": 447222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7967", "title": "The architectural design of a psychotherapeutic milieu.", "content": "The physical environment of a treatment program affects patient outcome, but how and to what degree is not known. However, decisions about the design of the environment must be made, and they must be made in the face of cost and building-code constraints and widely varying patient characteristics and treatment models. The authors describe the design principles and philosophies they followed in the remodeling of an in-patient treatment and research service in a university psychiatric hospital and indicate where cost and code constraints resulted in a less than ideal solution. They point out that many apparent amenities, such as a ward kitchen, are significant milieu therapy resources, and they advocate the involvement of all levels of staff in the planning process.", "contents": "The architectural design of a psychotherapeutic milieu. The physical environment of a treatment program affects patient outcome, but how and to what degree is not known. However, decisions about the design of the environment must be made, and they must be made in the face of cost and building-code constraints and widely varying patient characteristics and treatment models. The authors describe the design principles and philosophies they followed in the remodeling of an in-patient treatment and research service in a university psychiatric hospital and indicate where cost and code constraints resulted in a less than ideal solution. They point out that many apparent amenities, such as a ward kitchen, are significant milieu therapy resources, and they advocate the involvement of all levels of staff in the planning process.", "PMID": 447228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7968", "title": "Measuring prescribing practices in a state mental hospital system.", "content": "To determine the degree to which Nebraska's three state mental hospitals complied with recognized guidelines for prescription of psychotropic medications, a study was made for 1326 drug orders issued over a five-year period. The prescribing practices in the hospital were then reviewed in relation to the guidelines in areas of polypharmacy, daily dose frequency, time of day, use of p.r.n. orders, drug form, dosages for children and the elderly, dosages during acute and stabilized stages of illness, and brand versus generic names. The study highlighted areas of progress in drug use practices and identified areas for improvement.", "contents": "Measuring prescribing practices in a state mental hospital system. To determine the degree to which Nebraska's three state mental hospitals complied with recognized guidelines for prescription of psychotropic medications, a study was made for 1326 drug orders issued over a five-year period. The prescribing practices in the hospital were then reviewed in relation to the guidelines in areas of polypharmacy, daily dose frequency, time of day, use of p.r.n. orders, drug form, dosages for children and the elderly, dosages during acute and stabilized stages of illness, and brand versus generic names. The study highlighted areas of progress in drug use practices and identified areas for improvement.", "PMID": 447229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7969", "title": "A longitudinal study of neurosis in young men.", "content": "Because of the widely varying symptomatology seen in the neuroses, questions have been raised about whether they constitute a realistically defined category of illness. The authors followed 4074 Navy enlisted men diagnosed as neurotic between 1966 and 1969 and compared disposition decisions and posthospital outcomes for four major neurotic subtypes (anxiety, hysterical, depressive, and phobic-obsessive-compulsive). Neurotic patients as a group were also compared with patients in other diagnostic categories. Although posthospital outcomes were found to differ among the four neurotic subtypes, the differences were not large when compared with the differences between the neuroses as a group and other major diagnostic categories. Those findings suggest that the neuroses are a distinct group with regard to outcome, and that the use of this diagnostic category should not be abandoned without further study.", "contents": "A longitudinal study of neurosis in young men. Because of the widely varying symptomatology seen in the neuroses, questions have been raised about whether they constitute a realistically defined category of illness. The authors followed 4074 Navy enlisted men diagnosed as neurotic between 1966 and 1969 and compared disposition decisions and posthospital outcomes for four major neurotic subtypes (anxiety, hysterical, depressive, and phobic-obsessive-compulsive). Neurotic patients as a group were also compared with patients in other diagnostic categories. Although posthospital outcomes were found to differ among the four neurotic subtypes, the differences were not large when compared with the differences between the neuroses as a group and other major diagnostic categories. Those findings suggest that the neuroses are a distinct group with regard to outcome, and that the use of this diagnostic category should not be abandoned without further study.", "PMID": 447230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7970", "title": "Routine thoracic radiography for psychiatric inpatients.", "content": "Screening chest x-rays are routinely obtained for psychiatric as well as other patients. The authors present data that suggest that this practice no longer has a sound medical basis and should be eliminated or modified. It is unlikely that routine radiography of the chest is of practical benefit to adult psychiatric patients who are clinically healthy and are under age 40.", "contents": "Routine thoracic radiography for psychiatric inpatients. Screening chest x-rays are routinely obtained for psychiatric as well as other patients. The authors present data that suggest that this practice no longer has a sound medical basis and should be eliminated or modified. It is unlikely that routine radiography of the chest is of practical benefit to adult psychiatric patients who are clinically healthy and are under age 40.", "PMID": 447231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7971", "title": "Human services workers: a study of perceptions of their role.", "content": "Human services workers at the Veterans Administration Hospital, Brentwood, are involved with patients from the time they are admitted to the hospital until they are discharged and adjust to the community. As part of an evaluation of their role, a study was done of their tasks as perceived by themselves, by their supervisors, by other paraprofessionals, and by patients. In general, human services workers were perceived to be most involved in assisting patients in the hospital, followed by involvement in treatment planning; discharge; therapy; assisting patients in the community; support activities; community activities; patient admission and evaluation; and research, education, and program evaluation.", "contents": "Human services workers: a study of perceptions of their role. Human services workers at the Veterans Administration Hospital, Brentwood, are involved with patients from the time they are admitted to the hospital until they are discharged and adjust to the community. As part of an evaluation of their role, a study was done of their tasks as perceived by themselves, by their supervisors, by other paraprofessionals, and by patients. In general, human services workers were perceived to be most involved in assisting patients in the hospital, followed by involvement in treatment planning; discharge; therapy; assisting patients in the community; support activities; community activities; patient admission and evaluation; and research, education, and program evaluation.", "PMID": 447232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7972", "title": "Using the resources of AA in treating alcoholics in a general hospital.", "content": "At Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital a small number of staff and a large number of volunteers from Alcoholics Anonymous have collaborated to meet the treatment needs of the community's alcoholics. Recovered alcoholics serve as volunteers staffing a friendship room, located close to the emergency room and open weeknights between 6 and 10 p.m. They also provide counseling on AA, escort patients to AA meetings, help in postdischarge follow-up, and act as casefinders in the community. The hospital staff have become more aware of problems of alcoholism and are better able to treat alcoholics and to provide counseling and referral services.", "contents": "Using the resources of AA in treating alcoholics in a general hospital. At Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital a small number of staff and a large number of volunteers from Alcoholics Anonymous have collaborated to meet the treatment needs of the community's alcoholics. Recovered alcoholics serve as volunteers staffing a friendship room, located close to the emergency room and open weeknights between 6 and 10 p.m. They also provide counseling on AA, escort patients to AA meetings, help in postdischarge follow-up, and act as casefinders in the community. The hospital staff have become more aware of problems of alcoholism and are better able to treat alcoholics and to provide counseling and referral services.", "PMID": 447233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7973", "title": "Auditing dietetic services.", "content": "In this last article of a four-part series on auditing dietetic services, the authors present a detailed description of a quality assurance program for dietetic services.", "contents": "Auditing dietetic services. In this last article of a four-part series on auditing dietetic services, the authors present a detailed description of a quality assurance program for dietetic services.", "PMID": 447240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7974", "title": "Psychological care aided by RN counselors.", "content": "Three RNs working on master's degrees in counseling helped hospitalized patients and their families, nurses, and physicians deal with psychological aspects of illness.", "contents": "Psychological care aided by RN counselors. Three RNs working on master's degrees in counseling helped hospitalized patients and their families, nurses, and physicians deal with psychological aspects of illness.", "PMID": 447241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7975", "title": "Recession: what can hospitals expect?", "content": "Although not all the experts are agreed, it seems likely that there will be a recession beginning in 1979. This article takes a look at what people who are concerned with hospital planning can expect as a result of a recession.", "contents": "Recession: what can hospitals expect? Although not all the experts are agreed, it seems likely that there will be a recession beginning in 1979. This article takes a look at what people who are concerned with hospital planning can expect as a result of a recession.", "PMID": 447249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7976", "title": "FMGs, hospitals, P.L. 94-484, and the future.", "content": "In this first of two articles, the origins and provisions of the Health Professions Educational Assistance Act of 1976 (P.L. 94-484), which restricts entry into the United States by foreign graduates, are examined.", "contents": "FMGs, hospitals, P.L. 94-484, and the future. In this first of two articles, the origins and provisions of the Health Professions Educational Assistance Act of 1976 (P.L. 94-484), which restricts entry into the United States by foreign graduates, are examined.", "PMID": 447250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7977", "title": "Employees help to define their jobs.", "content": "Using a system of mutual goal-setting, this district hospital improved the quality of its performance appraisal system and provided managers and supervisors with more useful management tools.", "contents": "Employees help to define their jobs. Using a system of mutual goal-setting, this district hospital improved the quality of its performance appraisal system and provided managers and supervisors with more useful management tools.", "PMID": 447251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7978", "title": "Family, heal thyself.", "content": "Although the technique is still not widespread, family therapy, in which the entire family unit is part of the therapeutic process, promises to speed results.", "contents": "Family, heal thyself. Although the technique is still not widespread, family therapy, in which the entire family unit is part of the therapeutic process, promises to speed results.", "PMID": 447252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7979", "title": "Support team helps patients cope with stress.", "content": "Grant Hospital of Chicago recently adopted a new concept in psychiatric support of the physically ill patient. The medical staff believes it has improved hospital-patient relations.", "contents": "Support team helps patients cope with stress. Grant Hospital of Chicago recently adopted a new concept in psychiatric support of the physically ill patient. The medical staff believes it has improved hospital-patient relations.", "PMID": 447253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7980", "title": "The big ones in Congress--health and taxes.", "content": "Congressman John Duncan endorses the concept of flexibility in the delivery of health services/He believes the bulk of contributions to health care should be made by industry.", "contents": "The big ones in Congress--health and taxes. Congressman John Duncan endorses the concept of flexibility in the delivery of health services/He believes the bulk of contributions to health care should be made by industry.", "PMID": 447254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7981", "title": "Study projects mursing staff needs, budget.", "content": "Nursing service uses method that accurately determines staffing requirements for each unit, as well as the required budget for such staffing.", "contents": "Study projects mursing staff needs, budget. Nursing service uses method that accurately determines staffing requirements for each unit, as well as the required budget for such staffing.", "PMID": 447255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7982", "title": "Britain's NHS: problems we all may face.", "content": "Is Britain's nationalized health care system experiencing and coping with pressures that other nation's health care systems will have to face in the future?", "contents": "Britain's NHS: problems we all may face. Is Britain's nationalized health care system experiencing and coping with pressures that other nation's health care systems will have to face in the future?", "PMID": 447260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7983", "title": "Intensive care for relatives.", "content": "Begun in the neurosurgery department, program provides support services for the relatives of patients with serious illness.", "contents": "Intensive care for relatives. Begun in the neurosurgery department, program provides support services for the relatives of patients with serious illness.", "PMID": 447261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7984", "title": "Patient scheduling studied, refined.", "content": "Two hospitals used different approaches to devise equally efficient systems for scheduling and processing inpatients and outpatients for radiology procedures.", "contents": "Patient scheduling studied, refined. Two hospitals used different approaches to devise equally efficient systems for scheduling and processing inpatients and outpatients for radiology procedures.", "PMID": 447262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7985", "title": "Volunteers also have needs.", "content": "If volunteer programs are to succeed, potential candidates must be carefully interviewed to ensure that they and the program have been suitably matched.", "contents": "Volunteers also have needs. If volunteer programs are to succeed, potential candidates must be carefully interviewed to ensure that they and the program have been suitably matched.", "PMID": 447264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7986", "title": "Is the nation prepared for an emergency?", "content": "Government, health care professionals, and consumers must join forces to educate and train professional and citizens in emergency preparedness.", "contents": "Is the nation prepared for an emergency? Government, health care professionals, and consumers must join forces to educate and train professional and citizens in emergency preparedness.", "PMID": 447265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7987", "title": "Heart risks identified by program.", "content": "Hospital-based cardiac stress test has permitted the identification of persons with serious risk of heart problems without the need for excessive costs.", "contents": "Heart risks identified by program. Hospital-based cardiac stress test has permitted the identification of persons with serious risk of heart problems without the need for excessive costs.", "PMID": 447266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7988", "title": "Teamwork, planning keys to success.", "content": "To ensure a successful psychiatric unit in a general hospital, the hospital must determine needs, plan with all involved parties, and follow up with sensible control measures.", "contents": "Teamwork, planning keys to success. To ensure a successful psychiatric unit in a general hospital, the hospital must determine needs, plan with all involved parties, and follow up with sensible control measures.", "PMID": 447267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7989", "title": "Vision and planning help to develop the multihospital system.", "content": "Multihospital systems provide an important alternative to a health care system controlled by payers or regulators/It has the potential to be more effective in meeting society's expectations.", "contents": "Vision and planning help to develop the multihospital system. Multihospital systems provide an important alternative to a health care system controlled by payers or regulators/It has the potential to be more effective in meeting society's expectations.", "PMID": 447273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7990", "title": "New tax laws require slight shifts in hospitals' funding strategies.", "content": "Recent tax laws that affect hospitals' deferred compensation plans, employment taxes, annuities, foundation grants, unrelated business income, and gifts of appreciated property will not seriously affect charitable giving to hospitals.", "contents": "New tax laws require slight shifts in hospitals' funding strategies. Recent tax laws that affect hospitals' deferred compensation plans, employment taxes, annuities, foundation grants, unrelated business income, and gifts of appreciated property will not seriously affect charitable giving to hospitals.", "PMID": 447274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7991", "title": "Human response to color and light.", "content": "Sound principles, based on technical studies of the psychological and physiological effects of color on hospital patients, can help hospital administrators and designers choose interior colors with function in mind.", "contents": "Human response to color and light. Sound principles, based on technical studies of the psychological and physiological effects of color on hospital patients, can help hospital administrators and designers choose interior colors with function in mind.", "PMID": 447275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7992", "title": "Employee interest key to successful incident-reporting system.", "content": "If employees are actively involved and interested during training sessions on writing incident reports, they are likely to retain and apply much of the information that is presented/In addition, their understanding of the importance of the incident report will be enhanced.", "contents": "Employee interest key to successful incident-reporting system. If employees are actively involved and interested during training sessions on writing incident reports, they are likely to retain and apply much of the information that is presented/In addition, their understanding of the importance of the incident report will be enhanced.", "PMID": 447276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7993", "title": "Nosocomial infection linked to handwashing.", "content": "Study showed that sinks throughout a hospital harbored antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria that had caused nosocomial infections and that could contaminate hands during washing.", "contents": "Nosocomial infection linked to handwashing. Study showed that sinks throughout a hospital harbored antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria that had caused nosocomial infections and that could contaminate hands during washing.", "PMID": 447277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7994", "title": "Small hospitals can save on maintenance.", "content": "An in-house biomedical equipment maintenance program can be set up in a small hospital at little cost/The benefits of on-call technical aid can be great.", "contents": "Small hospitals can save on maintenance. An in-house biomedical equipment maintenance program can be set up in a small hospital at little cost/The benefits of on-call technical aid can be great.", "PMID": 447278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7995", "title": "In-house medical device maintenance.", "content": "The establishment of a medical engineering department in this 600-bed institution has proved to be cost-effective and has improved the hospital's environment.", "contents": "In-house medical device maintenance. The establishment of a medical engineering department in this 600-bed institution has proved to be cost-effective and has improved the hospital's environment.", "PMID": 447279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7996", "title": "Hospitals respond to rising rape rate.", "content": "As the rape rate increases, hospitals increasingly are being called upon to treat rape victims/Proper evidence collection and sympathetic care can help law enforcement officials as well as victims.", "contents": "Hospitals respond to rising rape rate. As the rape rate increases, hospitals increasingly are being called upon to treat rape victims/Proper evidence collection and sympathetic care can help law enforcement officials as well as victims.", "PMID": 447288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7997", "title": "Is there a satellite in your future?", "content": "Satellite communications have made great advances in recent years and offer an opportunity to provide instantaneous information to large numbers of people/They can provide low-cost patient and professional education, data transmission, and important information.", "contents": "Is there a satellite in your future? Satellite communications have made great advances in recent years and offer an opportunity to provide instantaneous information to large numbers of people/They can provide low-cost patient and professional education, data transmission, and important information.", "PMID": 447289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7998", "title": "Speak up for children!", "content": "During 1979, the International Year of the Child, the United Nations General Assembly has asked its member nations to examine and improve their services for children.", "contents": "Speak up for children! During 1979, the International Year of the Child, the United Nations General Assembly has asked its member nations to examine and improve their services for children.", "PMID": 447290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_7999", "title": "The PR war isn't the real war.", "content": "Although hospitals are losing the competition for headlines and television news time, public opinion can make itself evident with astonishing force when hospitals are threatened.", "contents": "The PR war isn't the real war. Although hospitals are losing the competition for headlines and television news time, public opinion can make itself evident with astonishing force when hospitals are threatened.", "PMID": 447291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8000", "title": "Catholic health care institutions and social justice.", "content": "What implications for the health care apostolate lie in the programs and plans of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and the United States Catholic Conference? This question is explored through looking at the relationship of the health care ministry to NCCB and USCC priorities--social justice, family life, parish renewal, and evangelization.", "contents": "Catholic health care institutions and social justice. What implications for the health care apostolate lie in the programs and plans of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and the United States Catholic Conference? This question is explored through looking at the relationship of the health care ministry to NCCB and USCC priorities--social justice, family life, parish renewal, and evangelization.", "PMID": 447299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8001", "title": "Bioethical issues and the moral matrix of U.S. health care.", "content": "Solutions to ethical-moral issues will be influenced by the growth of medical technology, by the escalating cost of medical care, and by the involvement of public entities in health care delivery. The major areas of concern that will be affected by these factors are care of the dying, genetics, euthanasia, sterilization, behavior control, reproductive interventions, abortion, informed consent, and distributive justice.", "contents": "Bioethical issues and the moral matrix of U.S. health care. Solutions to ethical-moral issues will be influenced by the growth of medical technology, by the escalating cost of medical care, and by the involvement of public entities in health care delivery. The major areas of concern that will be affected by these factors are care of the dying, genetics, euthanasia, sterilization, behavior control, reproductive interventions, abortion, informed consent, and distributive justice.", "PMID": 447300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8002", "title": "The health care system vs women and the poor.", "content": "This three-part article discusses some unresolved socioeconomic issues in the primary health care system. The first section centers on the socioeconomic impact of primary health care delivery on poor persons and some women, and the second section analyzes the implications of this impact. This third section reviews the system's response.", "contents": "The health care system vs women and the poor. This three-part article discusses some unresolved socioeconomic issues in the primary health care system. The first section centers on the socioeconomic impact of primary health care delivery on poor persons and some women, and the second section analyzes the implications of this impact. This third section reviews the system's response.", "PMID": 447301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8003", "title": "Sponsorship issues and trends.", "content": "Religious congregations are challenged to maintain the Catholic health care ministry at the local level despite the pressures of rising costs and decreasing religious personnel. In response, they are creating delivery systems and are experimenting with ways of increasing lay leadership.", "contents": "Sponsorship issues and trends. Religious congregations are challenged to maintain the Catholic health care ministry at the local level despite the pressures of rising costs and decreasing religious personnel. In response, they are creating delivery systems and are experimenting with ways of increasing lay leadership.", "PMID": 447302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8004", "title": "In vitro fertilization: legal and ethical implications.", "content": "HEW funding for research involving in vitro fertilization would support acts that are ethically inappropriate and of questionable legality.", "contents": "In vitro fertilization: legal and ethical implications. HEW funding for research involving in vitro fertilization would support acts that are ethically inappropriate and of questionable legality.", "PMID": 447303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8005", "title": "In vitro fertilization: a moratorium is in order.", "content": "A moratorium on in vitro fertilization would serve the society. The IVF issue is fraught with moral and legal problems surrounding the subject of IVF experimentation--the embryo--and the effect of this experimentation of individuals, families, and society.", "contents": "In vitro fertilization: a moratorium is in order. A moratorium on in vitro fertilization would serve the society. The IVF issue is fraught with moral and legal problems surrounding the subject of IVF experimentation--the embryo--and the effect of this experimentation of individuals, families, and society.", "PMID": 447304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8006", "title": "Benefits of self-insured hospitalization programs.", "content": "As part of hospitals' continuing efforts to control costs, many have begun to consider implementing self-insured hospitalization programs for their employees. Not only can self-insurance provide cash flow savings and actual cost savings but it can also promote prevention among hospital employees.", "contents": "Benefits of self-insured hospitalization programs. As part of hospitals' continuing efforts to control costs, many have begun to consider implementing self-insured hospitalization programs for their employees. Not only can self-insurance provide cash flow savings and actual cost savings but it can also promote prevention among hospital employees.", "PMID": 447305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8007", "title": "Actions speak louder.", "content": "This article examines five common negative nonverbal practices of hospital personnel and describes how to turn them into actions having positive effects on patients.", "contents": "Actions speak louder. This article examines five common negative nonverbal practices of hospital personnel and describes how to turn them into actions having positive effects on patients.", "PMID": 447306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8008", "title": "The Sister trustee.", "content": "As the number of religious sisters decreases and as hospitals are increasingly managed and staffed by laity, there is a national trend toward religious sisters who do not work in the hospital serving on its board of trustees. These sisters are fully responsible board members lending their considerable life experience and their sense of mission to dedicated service and Catholic witness on hospital boards.", "contents": "The Sister trustee. As the number of religious sisters decreases and as hospitals are increasingly managed and staffed by laity, there is a national trend toward religious sisters who do not work in the hospital serving on its board of trustees. These sisters are fully responsible board members lending their considerable life experience and their sense of mission to dedicated service and Catholic witness on hospital boards.", "PMID": 447314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8009", "title": "The trustee as steward for the community and the sponsor.", "content": "As a social institution, trusteeship is under fire; and board members (both lay and religious) should understand some common misconceptions about their role and should reassess their obligations to the health care facility, the sponsoring group, and the community at large.", "contents": "The trustee as steward for the community and the sponsor. As a social institution, trusteeship is under fire; and board members (both lay and religious) should understand some common misconceptions about their role and should reassess their obligations to the health care facility, the sponsoring group, and the community at large.", "PMID": 447315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8010", "title": "Helping staff to manage conflict well.", "content": "A hospital that trains its staff to deal assertively with conflict can become more effective in terms of productivity, cost effectiveness, and patient satisfaction. A training model for handling conflict in the work setting is described.", "contents": "Helping staff to manage conflict well. A hospital that trains its staff to deal assertively with conflict can become more effective in terms of productivity, cost effectiveness, and patient satisfaction. A training model for handling conflict in the work setting is described.", "PMID": 447316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8011", "title": "Using simulation in decision making.", "content": "The health care administrator can use digital simulation as a quantitative decision-making technique. Understanding its conceptual framework will enable the administrator to work with a technical specialist to formulate and solve problems.", "contents": "Using simulation in decision making. The health care administrator can use digital simulation as a quantitative decision-making technique. Understanding its conceptual framework will enable the administrator to work with a technical specialist to formulate and solve problems.", "PMID": 447317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8012", "title": "The minister's suffering--a resource in caring for the dying.", "content": "The interior struggles and resources of pastoral care ministers are their most valuable assets in ministering to the spiritual needs of dying patients. Out of their personal experience of weakness, they can more meaningfully witness to the reality of God's mercy and forgiveness.", "contents": "The minister's suffering--a resource in caring for the dying. The interior struggles and resources of pastoral care ministers are their most valuable assets in ministering to the spiritual needs of dying patients. Out of their personal experience of weakness, they can more meaningfully witness to the reality of God's mercy and forgiveness.", "PMID": 447318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8013", "title": "Rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Why self-perpetuating joint destruction is intermittent in some patients and unrelenting in others remains largely unknown, but progress has been made in identifying the different types of clinical course and tailoring specific treatment regimens for each.", "contents": "Rheumatoid arthritis. Why self-perpetuating joint destruction is intermittent in some patients and unrelenting in others remains largely unknown, but progress has been made in identifying the different types of clinical course and tailoring specific treatment regimens for each.", "PMID": 447332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8014", "title": "Fc receptors on human lymphocytes detected with double-coating indirect rosette formation.", "content": "The Fc receptor (FcR) on human lymphocytes is studied by using soluble immune complexes in antigen excess, prepared between ferritin and rabbit anti-ferritin, and a modification of Coombs' antigolbulin reaction (double-coating indirect rosette formation). 12% of human blood lymphocytes are shown to have Fc receptors. The FcR on lymphocytes is sensitive to pronase treatment, partially sensitive to trypsin digestion, and is inactivated after short glutaraldehyde fixation of lymphocytes. By cell fractionation experiments, FcR-positive lymphocytes were enriched in cell populations enriched with B cells.", "contents": "Fc receptors on human lymphocytes detected with double-coating indirect rosette formation. The Fc receptor (FcR) on human lymphocytes is studied by using soluble immune complexes in antigen excess, prepared between ferritin and rabbit anti-ferritin, and a modification of Coombs' antigolbulin reaction (double-coating indirect rosette formation). 12% of human blood lymphocytes are shown to have Fc receptors. The FcR on lymphocytes is sensitive to pronase treatment, partially sensitive to trypsin digestion, and is inactivated after short glutaraldehyde fixation of lymphocytes. By cell fractionation experiments, FcR-positive lymphocytes were enriched in cell populations enriched with B cells.", "PMID": 447402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8015", "title": "A simpler method for combined detection of human peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations.", "content": "A method for the simultaneous enumeration of human lymphocyte subpopulations was developed by mixing lymphocytes, sheep red blood cells and immunobeads. Thymus-dependent lymphocytes (T cells) are detected by rosette formation with AET-treated sheep blood cells, and thymus-independent lymphocytes (B cells) are identified by rosette formation with polyacrylamide gel coated with antibody specific to both light chains (chi and lambda) of immunoglobulin. The major advantage of this technique is that it is simple, convenient and reproducible. This method also detects lymphocytes possessing both T and B cell markers (double-marker lymphocytes). Three different types of rosettes are distinquishable under light-microscopic observation, and this method may be valuable in clinical use.", "contents": "A simpler method for combined detection of human peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations. A method for the simultaneous enumeration of human lymphocyte subpopulations was developed by mixing lymphocytes, sheep red blood cells and immunobeads. Thymus-dependent lymphocytes (T cells) are detected by rosette formation with AET-treated sheep blood cells, and thymus-independent lymphocytes (B cells) are identified by rosette formation with polyacrylamide gel coated with antibody specific to both light chains (chi and lambda) of immunoglobulin. The major advantage of this technique is that it is simple, convenient and reproducible. This method also detects lymphocytes possessing both T and B cell markers (double-marker lymphocytes). Three different types of rosettes are distinquishable under light-microscopic observation, and this method may be valuable in clinical use.", "PMID": 447403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8016", "title": "Delayed type hypersensitivity to bovine serum albumin and to lipid-conjugated bovine serum albumin in mice.", "content": "Delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to bovine serum albumin (BSA) and to lipid-conjugated BSA were studied comparatively. Unlike the case of BSA with which no DTH can be detected with native antigen, injection of butyric-conjugated BSA (Bu-BSA) in sensitized mice provokes a typical DTH for an early and limited period. Alum-precipitated Bu-BSA (Al-Bu-BSA) provokes from the beginning a stronger DTH which persists a much longer period.", "contents": "Delayed type hypersensitivity to bovine serum albumin and to lipid-conjugated bovine serum albumin in mice. Delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to bovine serum albumin (BSA) and to lipid-conjugated BSA were studied comparatively. Unlike the case of BSA with which no DTH can be detected with native antigen, injection of butyric-conjugated BSA (Bu-BSA) in sensitized mice provokes a typical DTH for an early and limited period. Alum-precipitated Bu-BSA (Al-Bu-BSA) provokes from the beginning a stronger DTH which persists a much longer period.", "PMID": 447404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8017", "title": "Non-immunogenicity of a purified sodium hyaluronate preparation in man.", "content": "The immunogenicity of a sodium hyaluronate preparation for clinical use (Healon, Healonid, Pharmacia AB, Sweden) in ophthalmology and certain joint diseases has been tested in man. For immunization, two subcutaneous injections of 10 mg of sodium hyaluronate were given at an interval of 1 week. The following criteria were used as indicators of immunogenicity: skin prick test, microprecipitation test and complement analyses. No evidence for immunogenic properties was obtained in any of these tests. This refers to sodium hyaluronate itself and to the trace amounts of protein components contained in the preparation.", "contents": "Non-immunogenicity of a purified sodium hyaluronate preparation in man. The immunogenicity of a sodium hyaluronate preparation for clinical use (Healon, Healonid, Pharmacia AB, Sweden) in ophthalmology and certain joint diseases has been tested in man. For immunization, two subcutaneous injections of 10 mg of sodium hyaluronate were given at an interval of 1 week. The following criteria were used as indicators of immunogenicity: skin prick test, microprecipitation test and complement analyses. No evidence for immunogenic properties was obtained in any of these tests. This refers to sodium hyaluronate itself and to the trace amounts of protein components contained in the preparation.", "PMID": 447405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8018", "title": "Adjuvant properties of retinol on IgE production in mice.", "content": "Mice treated with varying doses of retinol in Tween 80 showed no primary IgE response to ovalbumin in saline; however, reimmunization with ovalbumin in saline produced high IgE titers. Retinol-treated mice immunized with ovalbumin absorbed to Al (OH)3 also showed no primary IgE response, but high secondary responses. Significantly, animals treated with Tween 80 only prior to immunization with ovalbumin adsorbed to Al(OH)3 also demonstrated no primary IgE response, indicating that Tween 80 inhibited the primary IgE response.", "contents": "Adjuvant properties of retinol on IgE production in mice. Mice treated with varying doses of retinol in Tween 80 showed no primary IgE response to ovalbumin in saline; however, reimmunization with ovalbumin in saline produced high IgE titers. Retinol-treated mice immunized with ovalbumin absorbed to Al (OH)3 also showed no primary IgE response, but high secondary responses. Significantly, animals treated with Tween 80 only prior to immunization with ovalbumin adsorbed to Al(OH)3 also demonstrated no primary IgE response, indicating that Tween 80 inhibited the primary IgE response.", "PMID": 447406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8019", "title": "Effect of environmental exposure on bronchial sensitivity to antigen.", "content": "Bronchial sensitivity to grass and ragweed extracts was determined in four adult asthmatic subjects at the beginning and end of the grass and ragweed pollen seasons. 4 subjects with ragweed sensitivity had increased bronchial sensitivity to ragweed antigen at the end of the ragweed season. 2 of 3 grass sensitive subjects demonstrated increased bronchial sensitivity to grass antigen after the grass pollen season. This study suggests that natural environmetnal exposure to pollen antigens may induce priming in the lung.", "contents": "Effect of environmental exposure on bronchial sensitivity to antigen. Bronchial sensitivity to grass and ragweed extracts was determined in four adult asthmatic subjects at the beginning and end of the grass and ragweed pollen seasons. 4 subjects with ragweed sensitivity had increased bronchial sensitivity to ragweed antigen at the end of the ragweed season. 2 of 3 grass sensitive subjects demonstrated increased bronchial sensitivity to grass antigen after the grass pollen season. This study suggests that natural environmetnal exposure to pollen antigens may induce priming in the lung.", "PMID": 447407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8020", "title": "In vitro production of IgE and IgG by sensitized human peripheral lymphocytes.", "content": "Antigenic stimulation of peripheral lymphocytes was made in two different groups of atopic patients, testing their capabilities to produce IgE and IgG in vitro. For this purpose, Marbrook's technique was used in the cultures. The immunoglobulins produced were measured in the supernatants by a sensitive double-antibody method. Results demonstrate that it is possible to produce enough IgE and IgG to be detected. Some important parameters had to be considered: appropriate selection of the patients and the antigens used in the antigenic stimulation, as well as the number of cells and the duration of the culture.", "contents": "In vitro production of IgE and IgG by sensitized human peripheral lymphocytes. Antigenic stimulation of peripheral lymphocytes was made in two different groups of atopic patients, testing their capabilities to produce IgE and IgG in vitro. For this purpose, Marbrook's technique was used in the cultures. The immunoglobulins produced were measured in the supernatants by a sensitive double-antibody method. Results demonstrate that it is possible to produce enough IgE and IgG to be detected. Some important parameters had to be considered: appropriate selection of the patients and the antigens used in the antigenic stimulation, as well as the number of cells and the duration of the culture.", "PMID": 447408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8021", "title": "L-alanine--an essential amino acid for growth of lymphocytes in vitro.", "content": "A factor an ultrafiltrated (UM 10) extracts of calf thymus, liver and spleen stimulated the uptake of 3H-thymidine in DNA of cultured lymphocytes. The factor was purified by ion-exchange chromatography and gel chromatography and identified as alanine, which is lacking in the culture medium, RPMI 1640. An optimal amount of L-alanine increased the uptake of 3H-thymidine in DNA of lymphocytes from different species by about 100%. L-alanine should be regarded as a growth factor for lymphocytes in vitro and should be added to RPMI 1640, when this tissue culture medium is used for lymphocytes.", "contents": "L-alanine--an essential amino acid for growth of lymphocytes in vitro. A factor an ultrafiltrated (UM 10) extracts of calf thymus, liver and spleen stimulated the uptake of 3H-thymidine in DNA of cultured lymphocytes. The factor was purified by ion-exchange chromatography and gel chromatography and identified as alanine, which is lacking in the culture medium, RPMI 1640. An optimal amount of L-alanine increased the uptake of 3H-thymidine in DNA of lymphocytes from different species by about 100%. L-alanine should be regarded as a growth factor for lymphocytes in vitro and should be added to RPMI 1640, when this tissue culture medium is used for lymphocytes.", "PMID": 447409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8022", "title": "Effect of levamisole on the auto-antibody formation in nude mice.", "content": "The effects of levamisole on the formation of antibody to double-stranded DNA (ds-DNA), an auto-antibody, and to some thymus-dependent antigens were studied in nude (nu/nu) mice. The antibody titre to ds-DNA in nu/nu mice treated with levamisole was lower than that in control animals. The number of Thy-1-antigen-positive (Thy-1+) cells in the spleen from nu/nu mice treated with levamisole was higher than that from non-treated animals. It is suggested that the Thy-1+ cells were induced by levamisole in nu/nu mice and these cells suppressed the formation of antibody to ds-DNA, whereas the formation of antibody to a DNP-conjugate (OVA) and SRBC, thymus-dependent antigens, was not evoked in nu/nu mice after the treatment with levamisole.", "contents": "Effect of levamisole on the auto-antibody formation in nude mice. The effects of levamisole on the formation of antibody to double-stranded DNA (ds-DNA), an auto-antibody, and to some thymus-dependent antigens were studied in nude (nu/nu) mice. The antibody titre to ds-DNA in nu/nu mice treated with levamisole was lower than that in control animals. The number of Thy-1-antigen-positive (Thy-1+) cells in the spleen from nu/nu mice treated with levamisole was higher than that from non-treated animals. It is suggested that the Thy-1+ cells were induced by levamisole in nu/nu mice and these cells suppressed the formation of antibody to ds-DNA, whereas the formation of antibody to a DNP-conjugate (OVA) and SRBC, thymus-dependent antigens, was not evoked in nu/nu mice after the treatment with levamisole.", "PMID": 447410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8023", "title": "An investigation of the experimental induction of hypersensitivity in the guinea pig by material containing chromium, nickel and cobalt from arc welding fumes.", "content": "Sensitization of guinea pigs by chromium, cobalt and nickel was compared by four methods. The most effective was the maximization test of Magnusson and Kligman. Sensitizing properties of particles from fumes of either manual metal arc (MMA) or metal inert gas welding were demonstrated. Potent sensitization was attributed to chromium.", "contents": "An investigation of the experimental induction of hypersensitivity in the guinea pig by material containing chromium, nickel and cobalt from arc welding fumes. Sensitization of guinea pigs by chromium, cobalt and nickel was compared by four methods. The most effective was the maximization test of Magnusson and Kligman. Sensitizing properties of particles from fumes of either manual metal arc (MMA) or metal inert gas welding were demonstrated. Potent sensitization was attributed to chromium.", "PMID": 447411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8024", "title": "A comparison of two in vitro methods for studying a defect in leucocyte movement in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Filter and agarose plate techniques have been used to study an abnormality of polymorphonuclear leucocyte movement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The chemotactic response of normal cells towards activated rheumatoid plasma was significantly less than that towards activated control plasma when examined in Boyden chambers. This defect was not observed using the agarose plate method where the response of both control and rheumatoid cells towards activated rheumatoid plasma was identical. The existence of the plasma defect, which has been shown to be cell-directed, would not have been apparent had the agarose plate method been used alone. The choice of suitable in vitro methodologies for studying leucocyte movement in pathological conditions is therefore of some importance.", "contents": "A comparison of two in vitro methods for studying a defect in leucocyte movement in rheumatoid arthritis. Filter and agarose plate techniques have been used to study an abnormality of polymorphonuclear leucocyte movement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The chemotactic response of normal cells towards activated rheumatoid plasma was significantly less than that towards activated control plasma when examined in Boyden chambers. This defect was not observed using the agarose plate method where the response of both control and rheumatoid cells towards activated rheumatoid plasma was identical. The existence of the plasma defect, which has been shown to be cell-directed, would not have been apparent had the agarose plate method been used alone. The choice of suitable in vitro methodologies for studying leucocyte movement in pathological conditions is therefore of some importance.", "PMID": 447412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8025", "title": "Humoral mediator of antigenic competition demonstrated in vivo.", "content": "To determine if a soluble mediator of antigenic competition could be demonstrated in vivo, various groups of mice received implants of intraperitoneal Millipore diffusion chambers containing normal spleen cells and sheep erythrocytes (SRC). Priming and boosting the chamber hosts so that a vigorous secondary immune response to horse erythrocytes (HoRC) coincided with chamber implantation resulted in the suppression of the anti-SRC response of the chamber-enclosed cells. Similarly, passive immunization of the chamber hosts with SRC-absorbed anti-HoRC hyperimmune serum suppressed the response of the chamber-enclosed cells to SRC. Thus, serum from hyperimmune mice contains a humoral suppressor substance which mediates antigenic competition.", "contents": "Humoral mediator of antigenic competition demonstrated in vivo. To determine if a soluble mediator of antigenic competition could be demonstrated in vivo, various groups of mice received implants of intraperitoneal Millipore diffusion chambers containing normal spleen cells and sheep erythrocytes (SRC). Priming and boosting the chamber hosts so that a vigorous secondary immune response to horse erythrocytes (HoRC) coincided with chamber implantation resulted in the suppression of the anti-SRC response of the chamber-enclosed cells. Similarly, passive immunization of the chamber hosts with SRC-absorbed anti-HoRC hyperimmune serum suppressed the response of the chamber-enclosed cells to SRC. Thus, serum from hyperimmune mice contains a humoral suppressor substance which mediates antigenic competition.", "PMID": 447413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8026", "title": "Effects of levamisole and D-penicillamine in rat paw oedema induced by carrageenan and by kaolin.", "content": "Levamisole potentiated paw oedema induced by carrageenan in the rat whereas penicillamine was without effect. On the other hand, levamisole inhibited paw oedema induced by kaolin, penicillamine again having no effect. The copper complex of penicillamine was inhibitory in the carrageenan test but failed to show inhibition in the kaolin model of inflammation. These results show that levamisole and penicillamine are capable of exerting anti-inflammatory activity in the rat but only under certain conditions.", "contents": "Effects of levamisole and D-penicillamine in rat paw oedema induced by carrageenan and by kaolin. Levamisole potentiated paw oedema induced by carrageenan in the rat whereas penicillamine was without effect. On the other hand, levamisole inhibited paw oedema induced by kaolin, penicillamine again having no effect. The copper complex of penicillamine was inhibitory in the carrageenan test but failed to show inhibition in the kaolin model of inflammation. These results show that levamisole and penicillamine are capable of exerting anti-inflammatory activity in the rat but only under certain conditions.", "PMID": 447414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8027", "title": "Purification of two types of sea-squirt antigens.", "content": "Under monitoring the antigenic activity by radioimmunoassay (RIA), one of the major sea-squirt antigens was isolated by gel chromatography after treatment of the extract from internal organs of sea-squirt with QAE-Sephadex. This antigen was fairly homogenous as judged from its elution profile in chromatography on a column of Ultrogel AcA 44 with respect not only of the antigenic activity but also to UV absorption. Furthermore, the antigen inhibited the binding of the 125I-labeled tracer antigen to rabbit anti-sea-squirt antibody in a similar mode to the case of Ei-2, one of the sea-squirt antigens previously prepared, but its specific activity was as high as 2.33 times that of Ei-2. Accordingly this isolated antigen was corresponded to the major antigenic substance in Ei-2 and referred to as Ei-M. In addition, the other antigen of Gi-x was also isolated by chromatography on a column of Sepharose 6B as the major antigenic substance in Gi-2, the other one of the previous antigens. Gi-x was apparently different from E-M in the mode of inhibition of the binding of the tracer antigen to the antibody, although its antigenic activity against the asthmatic patients in vivo was as high as that of Ei-M. Thus, it was considered that sea-squirt contained at least two types of antigens of Ei-M and GI-X.", "contents": "Purification of two types of sea-squirt antigens. Under monitoring the antigenic activity by radioimmunoassay (RIA), one of the major sea-squirt antigens was isolated by gel chromatography after treatment of the extract from internal organs of sea-squirt with QAE-Sephadex. This antigen was fairly homogenous as judged from its elution profile in chromatography on a column of Ultrogel AcA 44 with respect not only of the antigenic activity but also to UV absorption. Furthermore, the antigen inhibited the binding of the 125I-labeled tracer antigen to rabbit anti-sea-squirt antibody in a similar mode to the case of Ei-2, one of the sea-squirt antigens previously prepared, but its specific activity was as high as 2.33 times that of Ei-2. Accordingly this isolated antigen was corresponded to the major antigenic substance in Ei-2 and referred to as Ei-M. In addition, the other antigen of Gi-x was also isolated by chromatography on a column of Sepharose 6B as the major antigenic substance in Gi-2, the other one of the previous antigens. Gi-x was apparently different from E-M in the mode of inhibition of the binding of the tracer antigen to the antibody, although its antigenic activity against the asthmatic patients in vivo was as high as that of Ei-M. Thus, it was considered that sea-squirt contained at least two types of antigens of Ei-M and GI-X.", "PMID": 447415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8028", "title": "How arachidonic acid depresses thymus weight.", "content": "Subcutaneous injection of arachidonic acid depresses thymus weight. This is unlikely to be a stress effect, since arachidonic acid is equally active in adrenalectomised animals. Amongst other fatty acids tested, those capable of being metabolised to arachidonic acid have greater thymolytic activity than those which are not arachidonic acid precursors. Thymolysis is significantly inhibited by indomethacin, a drug which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins.", "contents": "How arachidonic acid depresses thymus weight. Subcutaneous injection of arachidonic acid depresses thymus weight. This is unlikely to be a stress effect, since arachidonic acid is equally active in adrenalectomised animals. Amongst other fatty acids tested, those capable of being metabolised to arachidonic acid have greater thymolytic activity than those which are not arachidonic acid precursors. Thymolysis is significantly inhibited by indomethacin, a drug which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins.", "PMID": 447416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8029", "title": "Cholinergic modulation of anaphylactic dopamine release from calf lung.", "content": "Dopamine was released by specific antigen from sensitized calf lung in vitro. Dopamine release was potentiated by carbachol and inhibited by atropine. Nicotine enhanced dopamine release and this action was enhanced by tubocurarine. It is suggested that anaphylactic dopamine release is modulated by a vagal (muscarinic) mechanism in calf lung.", "contents": "Cholinergic modulation of anaphylactic dopamine release from calf lung. Dopamine was released by specific antigen from sensitized calf lung in vitro. Dopamine release was potentiated by carbachol and inhibited by atropine. Nicotine enhanced dopamine release and this action was enhanced by tubocurarine. It is suggested that anaphylactic dopamine release is modulated by a vagal (muscarinic) mechanism in calf lung.", "PMID": 447417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8030", "title": "Systemic persistence of homologous guinea pig skin-sensitizing antibodies.", "content": "Homologous guinea pig skin-sensitizing antibodies of the IgG1 class (as characterized by heat stability and persistence in skin for 7 days) were shown to persist systemically for 28-35 days. Persistence was shown by the anaphylaxis induced in guinea pigs following the intracardiac administration of the antiboy and subsequent antigenic challeng by aerosol. Skin-sensitizing antibody of the IgE class, characterized by heat lability and persistence in skin for 14 days, still caused systemic anaphylaxis for 42 days after the intracardiac administration of antibody. The IgG serum fraction from nonimmunized rabbits blocked systemic anaphylaxis in the guniea pig induced by aerosol following the passive transfer of heterologous (rabbit) and homologous IgG antibodies to ovalbumin, but not following the passive transfer of homologous IgE antibodies to ovalbumin.", "contents": "Systemic persistence of homologous guinea pig skin-sensitizing antibodies. Homologous guinea pig skin-sensitizing antibodies of the IgG1 class (as characterized by heat stability and persistence in skin for 7 days) were shown to persist systemically for 28-35 days. Persistence was shown by the anaphylaxis induced in guinea pigs following the intracardiac administration of the antiboy and subsequent antigenic challeng by aerosol. Skin-sensitizing antibody of the IgE class, characterized by heat lability and persistence in skin for 14 days, still caused systemic anaphylaxis for 42 days after the intracardiac administration of antibody. The IgG serum fraction from nonimmunized rabbits blocked systemic anaphylaxis in the guniea pig induced by aerosol following the passive transfer of heterologous (rabbit) and homologous IgG antibodies to ovalbumin, but not following the passive transfer of homologous IgE antibodies to ovalbumin.", "PMID": 447418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8031", "title": "Relationship between serum IgE levels and intestinal parasite load in African populations.", "content": "Serum IgE determinations and coproparasitological analyses were carried out on 161 individuals from two distinct ethnic groups (Hutus and Twas) from two regions in Rwanda (North and South). The cumulative parasitosis index (calculated for each individual as the sum of the scores for the four most frequent intestinal parasites) show a linear relation with IgE levels up to a plateau, with no clear pattern of correlation between the score for any given parasite and the IgE level. Such a direct quantitative (but not qualitative) relation reproposes the question on the role of IgE immunoglobulins in intestinal parasitoses.", "contents": "Relationship between serum IgE levels and intestinal parasite load in African populations. Serum IgE determinations and coproparasitological analyses were carried out on 161 individuals from two distinct ethnic groups (Hutus and Twas) from two regions in Rwanda (North and South). The cumulative parasitosis index (calculated for each individual as the sum of the scores for the four most frequent intestinal parasites) show a linear relation with IgE levels up to a plateau, with no clear pattern of correlation between the score for any given parasite and the IgE level. Such a direct quantitative (but not qualitative) relation reproposes the question on the role of IgE immunoglobulins in intestinal parasitoses.", "PMID": 447419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8032", "title": "Pain as a joint function of alcohol intake and customary reasons for drinking.", "content": "Nonalcoholics who, on a problem drinking inventory, responded \"yes\" to items reflecting a psychological dependence on alcohol, tended after alcohol ingestion to report a decrease in pain experienced in a cold pressor test. Conversely, those whose responses indicated no psychological dependence on alcohol tended to report pain increases after the consumption of alcohol.", "contents": "Pain as a joint function of alcohol intake and customary reasons for drinking. Nonalcoholics who, on a problem drinking inventory, responded \"yes\" to items reflecting a psychological dependence on alcohol, tended after alcohol ingestion to report a decrease in pain experienced in a cold pressor test. Conversely, those whose responses indicated no psychological dependence on alcohol tended to report pain increases after the consumption of alcohol.", "PMID": 447427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8033", "title": "Planning for management information systems in drug treatment organizations.", "content": "An attempt to set up a management information system for individual drug abuse programs throughout a state is described. The principles upon which the system is based are discussed along with the problems encountered in its implementation. A series of guidelines for establishing management information systems in operating human services agencies is included.", "contents": "Planning for management information systems in drug treatment organizations. An attempt to set up a management information system for individual drug abuse programs throughout a state is described. The principles upon which the system is based are discussed along with the problems encountered in its implementation. A series of guidelines for establishing management information systems in operating human services agencies is included.", "PMID": 447428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8034", "title": "Beverage specific drinking contexts.", "content": "The contextual differentiation of beverage specific consumption is examined in a metropolitan area household survey of current drinkers. The findings indicate that beverage specific consumption is related to such structural proportions as presence/absence of food, drinking location, type of companion, and duration. Wine, for example, is frequently associated with mealtimes, at home, and with relatives.", "contents": "Beverage specific drinking contexts. The contextual differentiation of beverage specific consumption is examined in a metropolitan area household survey of current drinkers. The findings indicate that beverage specific consumption is related to such structural proportions as presence/absence of food, drinking location, type of companion, and duration. Wine, for example, is frequently associated with mealtimes, at home, and with relatives.", "PMID": 447429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8035", "title": "Methadone evaluation: some additional thoughts.", "content": "This study of 460 patients showed that the 37% of the patients who were terminated as program failures did significantly worse than the active patients in terms of drug abuse, criminality, and social productivity. These findings suggest that methadone maintenance is at best a marginally effective modality for those large numbers of patients who drop out. Assuming that it is preferable for these dropouts to be on a program rather than on the streets, methadone maintenance treatment programs probably need to be more flexible so as to retain a larger number of these dropouts.", "contents": "Methadone evaluation: some additional thoughts. This study of 460 patients showed that the 37% of the patients who were terminated as program failures did significantly worse than the active patients in terms of drug abuse, criminality, and social productivity. These findings suggest that methadone maintenance is at best a marginally effective modality for those large numbers of patients who drop out. Assuming that it is preferable for these dropouts to be on a program rather than on the streets, methadone maintenance treatment programs probably need to be more flexible so as to retain a larger number of these dropouts.", "PMID": 447430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8036", "title": "The relationship between female criminality and drug use.", "content": "A 2-year study of four groups of women (N = 268)--addicts, prostitute-addicts, prostitutes, and female offenders--reveals that the link between female criminal activity and female drug involvement is significant. All four groups report \"drug costs\" as a major percentage of their monthly expenses. Prostitutes and female offenders report purchasing drugs mainly for resale. Female offenders report most of their income as coming from drugs sales, shoplifting, and larceny. For all of the women addicted to heroin, reselling drugs and prostitution were the usual means of support. There is insufficient evidence at this point in the research to link the use of a specific category of drugs to specific types of offenses. The main determinants in choice of crime for these subjects were skill and opportunity.", "contents": "The relationship between female criminality and drug use. A 2-year study of four groups of women (N = 268)--addicts, prostitute-addicts, prostitutes, and female offenders--reveals that the link between female criminal activity and female drug involvement is significant. All four groups report \"drug costs\" as a major percentage of their monthly expenses. Prostitutes and female offenders report purchasing drugs mainly for resale. Female offenders report most of their income as coming from drugs sales, shoplifting, and larceny. For all of the women addicted to heroin, reselling drugs and prostitution were the usual means of support. There is insufficient evidence at this point in the research to link the use of a specific category of drugs to specific types of offenses. The main determinants in choice of crime for these subjects were skill and opportunity.", "PMID": 447431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8037", "title": "Drug use among public and private secondary school students in Puerto Rico.", "content": "This paper reports results of the first wave of a two-wave panel survey carried out on a representative sample of Puerto Rican public and private secondary school students in the 1974--1975 academic year. Twelve percent of the students reported the use of one or more illicit drugs. The illicit drug most frequently used was marijuana. A greater proportion of adolescents have used alcohol and tobacco than any of the illegal drugs. Private school students of both sexes reported more use of illicit and licit drugs than their public school peers, suggesting that socio-economic factors may be influencing Puerto Rican adolescent drug behavior. Differences between Puerto Rican adolescents vary significantly depending on sex and suggest that Puerto Rican sociocultural conditions may have an important effect upon male-female drug use patterns. One of the most significant findings of the study is the high frequency of drug use among Puerto Rican adolescents who ever lived in other countries.", "contents": "Drug use among public and private secondary school students in Puerto Rico. This paper reports results of the first wave of a two-wave panel survey carried out on a representative sample of Puerto Rican public and private secondary school students in the 1974--1975 academic year. Twelve percent of the students reported the use of one or more illicit drugs. The illicit drug most frequently used was marijuana. A greater proportion of adolescents have used alcohol and tobacco than any of the illegal drugs. Private school students of both sexes reported more use of illicit and licit drugs than their public school peers, suggesting that socio-economic factors may be influencing Puerto Rican adolescent drug behavior. Differences between Puerto Rican adolescents vary significantly depending on sex and suggest that Puerto Rican sociocultural conditions may have an important effect upon male-female drug use patterns. One of the most significant findings of the study is the high frequency of drug use among Puerto Rican adolescents who ever lived in other countries.", "PMID": 447432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8038", "title": "Differentiation of long-term methadone patients from their admission cohorts.", "content": "The background characteristics of 45 heroin addicts who had received methadone continuously for over 4 years were compared with those of 1,228 heroin addicts who had not. The results indicated that the continuers were at admission older, White, not dependent on medical assistance, previously treated, using less heroin, and smoking less marijuana than the noncontinuers.", "contents": "Differentiation of long-term methadone patients from their admission cohorts. The background characteristics of 45 heroin addicts who had received methadone continuously for over 4 years were compared with those of 1,228 heroin addicts who had not. The results indicated that the continuers were at admission older, White, not dependent on medical assistance, previously treated, using less heroin, and smoking less marijuana than the noncontinuers.", "PMID": 447433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8039", "title": "Detoxification from heroin using self vs physician regulation of methadone dose.", "content": "Self-regulation of methadone dose during detoxification was compared to a fixed dose schedule. Self-regulators tended to maintain themselves on a stable methadone dose until forced to detoxify, but used less heroin and remained in treatment longer than the control group. The results suggest that a longer initial period of methadone stabilization may be useful in enabling addicts to detoxify successfully.", "contents": "Detoxification from heroin using self vs physician regulation of methadone dose. Self-regulation of methadone dose during detoxification was compared to a fixed dose schedule. Self-regulators tended to maintain themselves on a stable methadone dose until forced to detoxify, but used less heroin and remained in treatment longer than the control group. The results suggest that a longer initial period of methadone stabilization may be useful in enabling addicts to detoxify successfully.", "PMID": 447434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8040", "title": "The pharmacokinetics of dapsone and acetylated dapsone in serum and saliva.", "content": "The concentrations of dapsone (DDS) and its acetylated derivatives (MADDS and DADDS) were determined in the serum and saliva after one oral dose of dapsone until 72 hr. The peak serum concentrations of DDS and MADDS were reached, on average, at 3.8--4.3 hr after the dosage. The amounts of DADDS were negligible. The elimination half-life of the first order kinetics was, on average, at 20--21 hr for both DDS and MADDS. The study group included 6 rapid acetylators and 4 slow acetylators with the mean ratios MADDS/DDS 1.0 and 0.19, respectively. No difference in the pharmacokinetics of DDS or MADDS could be seen between the rapid and slow acetylators. The protein-free fractions of DDS and MADDS were 50 and 41 per cent, respectively, of the total serum concentrations as measured at 8 and 32 hr after the dosage. The salivary concentration of DDS was, on average, 49 per cent of the total serum concentration during the whole study period. The salivary concentration of MADDS was 40 per cent, respectively. The elimination half-life of DDS and MADDS in saliva did not differ from that in serum. Between the salivary and serum protein-free concentrations a strict correlation existed (p less than 0.001). The salivary concentration of dapsone and its monoacetyl derivative reflect the protein-free, active drug in serum.", "contents": "The pharmacokinetics of dapsone and acetylated dapsone in serum and saliva. The concentrations of dapsone (DDS) and its acetylated derivatives (MADDS and DADDS) were determined in the serum and saliva after one oral dose of dapsone until 72 hr. The peak serum concentrations of DDS and MADDS were reached, on average, at 3.8--4.3 hr after the dosage. The amounts of DADDS were negligible. The elimination half-life of the first order kinetics was, on average, at 20--21 hr for both DDS and MADDS. The study group included 6 rapid acetylators and 4 slow acetylators with the mean ratios MADDS/DDS 1.0 and 0.19, respectively. No difference in the pharmacokinetics of DDS or MADDS could be seen between the rapid and slow acetylators. The protein-free fractions of DDS and MADDS were 50 and 41 per cent, respectively, of the total serum concentrations as measured at 8 and 32 hr after the dosage. The salivary concentration of DDS was, on average, 49 per cent of the total serum concentration during the whole study period. The salivary concentration of MADDS was 40 per cent, respectively. The elimination half-life of DDS and MADDS in saliva did not differ from that in serum. Between the salivary and serum protein-free concentrations a strict correlation existed (p less than 0.001). The salivary concentration of dapsone and its monoacetyl derivative reflect the protein-free, active drug in serum.", "PMID": 447435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8041", "title": "Plasma protein binding of salicylate and quinidine in patients with multiple myeloma.", "content": "The plasma protein binding of salicylate, a representative acidic drug, and of quinidine, a representative basic drug, has been studied in patients with multiple myeloma, a disease characterized by a profound alteration of the plasma protein pattern. Abnormal binding of salicylate was detected only in patients with high values of circulating abnormal protein. Plasma protein binding of quinidine was not altered in any of the patients studied.", "contents": "Plasma protein binding of salicylate and quinidine in patients with multiple myeloma. The plasma protein binding of salicylate, a representative acidic drug, and of quinidine, a representative basic drug, has been studied in patients with multiple myeloma, a disease characterized by a profound alteration of the plasma protein pattern. Abnormal binding of salicylate was detected only in patients with high values of circulating abnormal protein. Plasma protein binding of quinidine was not altered in any of the patients studied.", "PMID": 447437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8042", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of Amikacin (BB-K8) in patients with normal or impaired renal function.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of Amikacin (BB-K8) were determined after a single i.v. injection of 7.8 mg of the antibiotic/kg of body weight. It was administered to 10 patients with normal renal function and 19 patients with varying degrees of renal impairment. The elimination of Amikacin from plasma was seen to follow the course of an open two-compartment model system. From patients with normal renal function, values for the following pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained: alpha = 4.219 hr-1; beta = 0.292 hr-1; K12 = 2.218 hr-1; K21 = 0.859 hr-1; K13 = 1.432 hr-1; Vc = 3.125 1; Vp = 8.068 1 and Vdss = 11.193 1. As the relationship K12/K21 is greater than 1, it may be seen that there is a tendency for the antibiotic to accumulate in the peripheric compartment. Impaired renal function significantly diminishes the values recorded for alpha, beta, K12, K21, K13. Distribution volumes are significantly increased in patients with renal impairment. A linear relationship between the K13 of Amikacin and creatinine clearance is demonstrated. Adjustment of Amikacin dosage, according to the individual degree of renal impairment, may be obtained by spacing out the injections.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of Amikacin (BB-K8) in patients with normal or impaired renal function. The pharmacokinetics of Amikacin (BB-K8) were determined after a single i.v. injection of 7.8 mg of the antibiotic/kg of body weight. It was administered to 10 patients with normal renal function and 19 patients with varying degrees of renal impairment. The elimination of Amikacin from plasma was seen to follow the course of an open two-compartment model system. From patients with normal renal function, values for the following pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained: alpha = 4.219 hr-1; beta = 0.292 hr-1; K12 = 2.218 hr-1; K21 = 0.859 hr-1; K13 = 1.432 hr-1; Vc = 3.125 1; Vp = 8.068 1 and Vdss = 11.193 1. As the relationship K12/K21 is greater than 1, it may be seen that there is a tendency for the antibiotic to accumulate in the peripheric compartment. Impaired renal function significantly diminishes the values recorded for alpha, beta, K12, K21, K13. Distribution volumes are significantly increased in patients with renal impairment. A linear relationship between the K13 of Amikacin and creatinine clearance is demonstrated. Adjustment of Amikacin dosage, according to the individual degree of renal impairment, may be obtained by spacing out the injections.", "PMID": 447438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8043", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of terbutaline after subcutaneous administration.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of terbutaline has been studied after subcutaneous adminsitration of a therapeutic dose of 250 microgram in 14 patients. Short absorption half-lives of about 7 min resulted in a fast uptake of the drug. Serum concentrations of terbutaline were measured up to 10 hr after administration, depending on the individual. An open one-compartment model appeared adequate for the mathematical description of the kinetics in most patients. Elimination constants of 0.27 +/- 0.07 hr-1 were observed. The elimination process was biphasic in 5 patients with a mean elimination constant of the second phase of 0.10 +/- 0.04 hr-1. This resulted in a comparatively high concentration of 0.7 ng/ml 10 hr after administration. Regular use of terbutaline did not influence the pharmacokinetic data in a significant way.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of terbutaline after subcutaneous administration. The pharmacokinetics of terbutaline has been studied after subcutaneous adminsitration of a therapeutic dose of 250 microgram in 14 patients. Short absorption half-lives of about 7 min resulted in a fast uptake of the drug. Serum concentrations of terbutaline were measured up to 10 hr after administration, depending on the individual. An open one-compartment model appeared adequate for the mathematical description of the kinetics in most patients. Elimination constants of 0.27 +/- 0.07 hr-1 were observed. The elimination process was biphasic in 5 patients with a mean elimination constant of the second phase of 0.10 +/- 0.04 hr-1. This resulted in a comparatively high concentration of 0.7 ng/ml 10 hr after administration. Regular use of terbutaline did not influence the pharmacokinetic data in a significant way.", "PMID": 447439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8044", "title": "Digoxin clearance and glomerular filtration rate.", "content": "The authors have studied the correlation between digoxin clearance and glomerular filtration rate. This correlation was better than between digoxin clearance and creatinine clearance without reducing the error of a programed therapy.", "contents": "Digoxin clearance and glomerular filtration rate. The authors have studied the correlation between digoxin clearance and glomerular filtration rate. This correlation was better than between digoxin clearance and creatinine clearance without reducing the error of a programed therapy.", "PMID": 447440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8045", "title": "Hypervitaminosis A combined with calcium deficiency in rats.", "content": "Weanling male rats were fed for 24 days on a meat diet. Some received supplements of CaCO3, but others did not. For the final 14 days of the experiment some of the rats were given massive doses of retinol as retinyl acetate, but others were undosed. Some of the rats not given retinol had their food intakes paired with those given retinol. Skeletal examinations were made by radiography, and postmortem by measurement of the femur ash contents. The meat diet regularly reduced the femur ash to about half its normal level, but the CaCO3 supplements prevented any reduction. Skeletal fractures occurred consistently in all the rats given retinol, and with little if any difference in severity between the Ca-deficient and Ca-supplemented animals. Histological studies confirmed the accumulation of abnormal amounts of lipid round the liver Kupffer cells in hypervitaminosis A. Chemical estimations of liver fat gave higher values for the retinol-dosed animals than for their controls on paired food intakes. For control rats on unrestricted food intakes, however, higher values than for the retinol-dosed animals were found, but without lipid depositions round the Kupffer cells.", "contents": "Hypervitaminosis A combined with calcium deficiency in rats. Weanling male rats were fed for 24 days on a meat diet. Some received supplements of CaCO3, but others did not. For the final 14 days of the experiment some of the rats were given massive doses of retinol as retinyl acetate, but others were undosed. Some of the rats not given retinol had their food intakes paired with those given retinol. Skeletal examinations were made by radiography, and postmortem by measurement of the femur ash contents. The meat diet regularly reduced the femur ash to about half its normal level, but the CaCO3 supplements prevented any reduction. Skeletal fractures occurred consistently in all the rats given retinol, and with little if any difference in severity between the Ca-deficient and Ca-supplemented animals. Histological studies confirmed the accumulation of abnormal amounts of lipid round the liver Kupffer cells in hypervitaminosis A. Chemical estimations of liver fat gave higher values for the retinol-dosed animals than for their controls on paired food intakes. For control rats on unrestricted food intakes, however, higher values than for the retinol-dosed animals were found, but without lipid depositions round the Kupffer cells.", "PMID": 447448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8046", "title": "Hepatic lysosomal enzymes in young rats fed retinol.", "content": "Oral administration of one dose of 6.0 and 12.0 mg retinol for one day significantly increased percentage free activities of protease (cathepsins), cathepsin B1 and acid ribonuclease, whereas feeding of one dose of 1.5 mg retinol for one day did not release the above enzymes in younger rats. However, feeding of 1.5, 6.0 and 12.0 mg retinol daily for two days did not significantly increased the percentage free activities of these lysosomal enzymes except that of acid ribonuclease which was still increased in young rats fed 12.0 mg retinol. Retinol feeding either for one day or two days did not affect the release of acid phosphatase and aryl sulphatase in young rats. Retinol inhibited in vitro the activities of protease (cathepsins) and cathepsin B1.", "contents": "Hepatic lysosomal enzymes in young rats fed retinol. Oral administration of one dose of 6.0 and 12.0 mg retinol for one day significantly increased percentage free activities of protease (cathepsins), cathepsin B1 and acid ribonuclease, whereas feeding of one dose of 1.5 mg retinol for one day did not release the above enzymes in younger rats. However, feeding of 1.5, 6.0 and 12.0 mg retinol daily for two days did not significantly increased the percentage free activities of these lysosomal enzymes except that of acid ribonuclease which was still increased in young rats fed 12.0 mg retinol. Retinol feeding either for one day or two days did not affect the release of acid phosphatase and aryl sulphatase in young rats. Retinol inhibited in vitro the activities of protease (cathepsins) and cathepsin B1.", "PMID": 447449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8047", "title": "[Effects of ingestion of an antioxidant, BHT, on the metabolism of ascorbic acid and vitamin A in rats].", "content": "The antioxidant foor additive, BHT, was fed to male rat for 28 days at a 0.5% concentration in a diet containing ascorbic acid or not. BHT intake had no effect on ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acid contents in the adrenals, spleen or liver, whether or not the diet contained ascorbic acid. When the ration included 100 mg/kg of ascorbic acid, BHT intake caused a sharp rise in urinary excretion of this compound. This data confirm the work of other authors studying an ascorbic acid-poor diet. These results indicate that BHT intake leads to increased synthesis of ascorbic acid. This augmentation would be the result of stimulating the biosynthesis pathway of uridyl-di-phospho-glucuronic acid, which is necessary to the elimination of BHT in the form of glucuroconjugate. BHT intake in an ascorbic acid-rich diet reduces hepatic vitamin A concentration by 44 p. 100 and the hepatic reserve of this vitamin by 22 p. 100. BHT detoxication, as that of other exogenous compounds, thus seems to cause increased vitamin A utilization.", "contents": "[Effects of ingestion of an antioxidant, BHT, on the metabolism of ascorbic acid and vitamin A in rats]. The antioxidant foor additive, BHT, was fed to male rat for 28 days at a 0.5% concentration in a diet containing ascorbic acid or not. BHT intake had no effect on ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acid contents in the adrenals, spleen or liver, whether or not the diet contained ascorbic acid. When the ration included 100 mg/kg of ascorbic acid, BHT intake caused a sharp rise in urinary excretion of this compound. This data confirm the work of other authors studying an ascorbic acid-poor diet. These results indicate that BHT intake leads to increased synthesis of ascorbic acid. This augmentation would be the result of stimulating the biosynthesis pathway of uridyl-di-phospho-glucuronic acid, which is necessary to the elimination of BHT in the form of glucuroconjugate. BHT intake in an ascorbic acid-rich diet reduces hepatic vitamin A concentration by 44 p. 100 and the hepatic reserve of this vitamin by 22 p. 100. BHT detoxication, as that of other exogenous compounds, thus seems to cause increased vitamin A utilization.", "PMID": 447450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8048", "title": "[Vitamin B2 nutritional status of pregnant rats and their offspring in relation to dietary riboflavin intake].", "content": "Four groups of gestating female rats were fed diets containing respectively 1, 2, 4, 6 mg of riboflavine per kg. Measurements of the changes in vitamin excretion as related to the dietary intake during various periods of gestation support the hypothesis that riboflavin requirement increases in the last days of gestation. On the other hand, measurements of riboflavin concentration in tissues show that, when the vitamin is given in suboptimal quantity, it is priorly fixed by the foetus. Qualitatively these results are similar to those we obtained in our corresponding study with thiamin. However, the magnitude of the changes in riboflavin urinary excretion or fixation by organs, as related to the dietary intakes, are much more limited as compared to those obtained with thiamin.", "contents": "[Vitamin B2 nutritional status of pregnant rats and their offspring in relation to dietary riboflavin intake]. Four groups of gestating female rats were fed diets containing respectively 1, 2, 4, 6 mg of riboflavine per kg. Measurements of the changes in vitamin excretion as related to the dietary intake during various periods of gestation support the hypothesis that riboflavin requirement increases in the last days of gestation. On the other hand, measurements of riboflavin concentration in tissues show that, when the vitamin is given in suboptimal quantity, it is priorly fixed by the foetus. Qualitatively these results are similar to those we obtained in our corresponding study with thiamin. However, the magnitude of the changes in riboflavin urinary excretion or fixation by organs, as related to the dietary intakes, are much more limited as compared to those obtained with thiamin.", "PMID": 447451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8049", "title": "Polyglutamate forms of folate in liver of folic acid-deficient rats.", "content": "In view of role played by pteroylpolyglutamates as actual folate coenzymes in single-carbon unit metabolism, the effect of folic acid deficiency on the distribution of these compounds in rat liver has been studied. In deficient rats the liver levels of pteroylpolyglutamates and in particular of those containing a higher number of glutamyl residues are more decreased as compared with monoglutamates. In fact penta- and other higher polyglutamates: mono-, di- and tri-glutamates ratio is lower in deficient rats than that in control rats. The decreased amount of these coenzymic forms observed in this condition may be considered as the consequence of the severe alterations of process which adds glutamate moieties to monoglutamate forms.", "contents": "Polyglutamate forms of folate in liver of folic acid-deficient rats. In view of role played by pteroylpolyglutamates as actual folate coenzymes in single-carbon unit metabolism, the effect of folic acid deficiency on the distribution of these compounds in rat liver has been studied. In deficient rats the liver levels of pteroylpolyglutamates and in particular of those containing a higher number of glutamyl residues are more decreased as compared with monoglutamates. In fact penta- and other higher polyglutamates: mono-, di- and tri-glutamates ratio is lower in deficient rats than that in control rats. The decreased amount of these coenzymic forms observed in this condition may be considered as the consequence of the severe alterations of process which adds glutamate moieties to monoglutamate forms.", "PMID": 447452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8050", "title": "Folate intake by teenage girls and by pregnant women.", "content": "In a dietary analysis comprising 110 girls aged 13-15 years and 87 pregnant women the mean folate intake proved to be less than one-third of the Recommended Dietary Allowances. Among the girls there was a significantly positive correlation between folate intake and energy intake, while this did not apply to the pregnant women. The reason was that the excess energy intake during pregnancy was only modest, and in many cases it was met by energy calories of low nutritional value. If supplements of folic acid are needed during pregnancy, it is recommended to start prophylaxis as early as possible, as folate intakes by potential mothers (teenage girls) are insufficient to secure a high depot level for folates before pregnancy.", "contents": "Folate intake by teenage girls and by pregnant women. In a dietary analysis comprising 110 girls aged 13-15 years and 87 pregnant women the mean folate intake proved to be less than one-third of the Recommended Dietary Allowances. Among the girls there was a significantly positive correlation between folate intake and energy intake, while this did not apply to the pregnant women. The reason was that the excess energy intake during pregnancy was only modest, and in many cases it was met by energy calories of low nutritional value. If supplements of folic acid are needed during pregnancy, it is recommended to start prophylaxis as early as possible, as folate intakes by potential mothers (teenage girls) are insufficient to secure a high depot level for folates before pregnancy.", "PMID": 447453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8051", "title": "Vitamin C deficiency in guinea pigs: variable sensitivity of collagen at different sites.", "content": "1. The synthesis of collagen in several tissues, including the C1q component of complement in serum, was measured in vitamin C-deficient and control guinea pigs by incorporating labelled proline into hydroxyproline in vivo. 2. Of the tissues examined, by far the greatest specific effect of vitamin C deficiency was observed in skin. Bone was second in order of sensitivity; skeletal muscle, lung, heart and kidney exhibited only small effects, which were difficult to distinguish from those of inanition, while liver, C1q, and the ethanol-soluble components of serum were virtually insensitive. The effect on urinary hydroxyproline was also extremely small. 3. The lack of sensitivity of C1q confirms previous conclusions (BATES, LEVENE, OLDROYD and LACHMANN 1978), based on total protein bound hydroxyproline levels and total C1 activity in plasma. Since C1q, which turns over rapidly, is insensitive, the high sensitivity of \"repair\" tissues to vitamin C deficiency is unlikely to be connected with their high turnover rate. Differential concentration of vitamin C by different tissues seems more likely to be the critical factor.", "contents": "Vitamin C deficiency in guinea pigs: variable sensitivity of collagen at different sites. 1. The synthesis of collagen in several tissues, including the C1q component of complement in serum, was measured in vitamin C-deficient and control guinea pigs by incorporating labelled proline into hydroxyproline in vivo. 2. Of the tissues examined, by far the greatest specific effect of vitamin C deficiency was observed in skin. Bone was second in order of sensitivity; skeletal muscle, lung, heart and kidney exhibited only small effects, which were difficult to distinguish from those of inanition, while liver, C1q, and the ethanol-soluble components of serum were virtually insensitive. The effect on urinary hydroxyproline was also extremely small. 3. The lack of sensitivity of C1q confirms previous conclusions (BATES, LEVENE, OLDROYD and LACHMANN 1978), based on total protein bound hydroxyproline levels and total C1 activity in plasma. Since C1q, which turns over rapidly, is insensitive, the high sensitivity of \"repair\" tissues to vitamin C deficiency is unlikely to be connected with their high turnover rate. Differential concentration of vitamin C by different tissues seems more likely to be the critical factor.", "PMID": 447454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8052", "title": "Effects of high level of vitamin C on tissue antioxidant status of guinea pigs.", "content": "Two groups of weanling male Hartley guinea pigs maintained on vitamin E deficient diet were supplemented with 0.4 I.U./100 g body weight/day of vitamin E and either 2 (Group A) or 10 (Group B) mg/100 g body weight/day of vitamin C for 5 weeks. As compared to Group A, the degree of erythrocyte hemolysis and liver TBAR level of Group B were significantly increased while plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte GSH levels were significantly decreased. In another experiment, two groups of guinea pigs were given 0.8 I.U./100 g body weight/day of vitamin E and 2 (Group C) or 30 mg/100 g body weight/day (Group D) of vitamin C. Levels of plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte GSH of Group D were significantly lower than those of Group C: however, erythrocyte hemolysis and liver TBAR were not affected by the level of vitamin C supplementation. The results suggest that the high levels of vitamin C supplementation lowered tissue antioxidant potential of animal when vitamin E was marginally adequate, and the hemolytic and peroxidizing effect of high level of vitamin C may be counteracted by increasing the level of vitamin E.", "contents": "Effects of high level of vitamin C on tissue antioxidant status of guinea pigs. Two groups of weanling male Hartley guinea pigs maintained on vitamin E deficient diet were supplemented with 0.4 I.U./100 g body weight/day of vitamin E and either 2 (Group A) or 10 (Group B) mg/100 g body weight/day of vitamin C for 5 weeks. As compared to Group A, the degree of erythrocyte hemolysis and liver TBAR level of Group B were significantly increased while plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte GSH levels were significantly decreased. In another experiment, two groups of guinea pigs were given 0.8 I.U./100 g body weight/day of vitamin E and 2 (Group C) or 30 mg/100 g body weight/day (Group D) of vitamin C. Levels of plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte GSH of Group D were significantly lower than those of Group C: however, erythrocyte hemolysis and liver TBAR were not affected by the level of vitamin C supplementation. The results suggest that the high levels of vitamin C supplementation lowered tissue antioxidant potential of animal when vitamin E was marginally adequate, and the hemolytic and peroxidizing effect of high level of vitamin C may be counteracted by increasing the level of vitamin E.", "PMID": 447455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8053", "title": "The plasma membrane of the rabbit lens cortical fiber. I. Isolation, characterization, and biosynthesis of two membrane intrinsic polypeptides.", "content": "Rabbit lens cortical fiber plasma membrane polypeptides were isolated and two membrane intrinsic proteins were characterized by SDS-PAGE. A polypeptide with a molecular weight of 26 kilodaltons is the major constituent of the plasma membrane. The molecular weight and antigenic properties of the other polypeptide studied are similar to polypeptides of cortical water-soluble alpha-crystalline. Biosynthesis of these two polypeptides was studied. After initially high rates, synthesis of both of these polypeptides decreased considerably and maintained a steady rate for the rest of the culture time.", "contents": "The plasma membrane of the rabbit lens cortical fiber. I. Isolation, characterization, and biosynthesis of two membrane intrinsic polypeptides. Rabbit lens cortical fiber plasma membrane polypeptides were isolated and two membrane intrinsic proteins were characterized by SDS-PAGE. A polypeptide with a molecular weight of 26 kilodaltons is the major constituent of the plasma membrane. The molecular weight and antigenic properties of the other polypeptide studied are similar to polypeptides of cortical water-soluble alpha-crystalline. Biosynthesis of these two polypeptides was studied. After initially high rates, synthesis of both of these polypeptides decreased considerably and maintained a steady rate for the rest of the culture time.", "PMID": 447458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8054", "title": "Prevention of stromal ulceration in the alkali-burned rabbit cornea by glued-on contact lens. Evidence for the role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in collagen degradation.", "content": "Stromal ulceration of the alkali-burned rabbit cornea was found to be associated invariably with phagocytically active polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). A glued-on methylmethacrylate lens applied to corneas soon after burning, however, prevented re-epithelialization and also prevented PMN infiltration of the stroma and stromal ulceration. Subsequent partial detachment or complete removal of the lens resulted in epithelial resurfacing of the stroma, PMN infiltration, and stromal ulceration. Glued-on lenses applied to already ulcerating corneas arrested further ulceration by prohibiting additional PMN infiltration. Either surface debridement or glued-on methylmethacrylate rings also prevented re-epithelialization and ulceration in stromas not infiltrated by PMNs, but neither treatment was sufficient to prevent ulceration in corneas already containing numerous PMNs. The data suggest the possibility that the epithelium stimulates infiltration of the stroma by PMNs which then participate in stromal matrix degradation. Although no claim is made that only PMNs mediate matrix destruction in corneal ulceration, the efficacy of the lens would seem to be due to exclusion of the epithelium and the consequent prevention of stromal infiltration by PMNs.", "contents": "Prevention of stromal ulceration in the alkali-burned rabbit cornea by glued-on contact lens. Evidence for the role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in collagen degradation. Stromal ulceration of the alkali-burned rabbit cornea was found to be associated invariably with phagocytically active polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). A glued-on methylmethacrylate lens applied to corneas soon after burning, however, prevented re-epithelialization and also prevented PMN infiltration of the stroma and stromal ulceration. Subsequent partial detachment or complete removal of the lens resulted in epithelial resurfacing of the stroma, PMN infiltration, and stromal ulceration. Glued-on lenses applied to already ulcerating corneas arrested further ulceration by prohibiting additional PMN infiltration. Either surface debridement or glued-on methylmethacrylate rings also prevented re-epithelialization and ulceration in stromas not infiltrated by PMNs, but neither treatment was sufficient to prevent ulceration in corneas already containing numerous PMNs. The data suggest the possibility that the epithelium stimulates infiltration of the stroma by PMNs which then participate in stromal matrix degradation. Although no claim is made that only PMNs mediate matrix destruction in corneal ulceration, the efficacy of the lens would seem to be due to exclusion of the epithelium and the consequent prevention of stromal infiltration by PMNs.", "PMID": 447459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8055", "title": "What prior uniocular processing is necessary for stereopsis?", "content": "In order to induce stereoscopic depth, retinal images in the right and left eyes must differ. Our experiments demonstrate that these uniocular differences for simple three-line configurations at stereo-threshold cannot usually be distinguished one from the other. We confirm that depth values are associated with individual features by virtue of their disparity, rather than by a comparison of their image separations in the two eyes. In ordinary stereoacuity patterns, no prior identification of monocular relationships is needed to produce discriminable depth differences. For certain patterns, disparity of the positions of the averages of the targets' internal light distributions in the two eyes can substitute for disparity of pattern contours in stereoscopic depth discrimination.", "contents": "What prior uniocular processing is necessary for stereopsis? In order to induce stereoscopic depth, retinal images in the right and left eyes must differ. Our experiments demonstrate that these uniocular differences for simple three-line configurations at stereo-threshold cannot usually be distinguished one from the other. We confirm that depth values are associated with individual features by virtue of their disparity, rather than by a comparison of their image separations in the two eyes. In ordinary stereoacuity patterns, no prior identification of monocular relationships is needed to produce discriminable depth differences. For certain patterns, disparity of the positions of the averages of the targets' internal light distributions in the two eyes can substitute for disparity of pattern contours in stereoscopic depth discrimination.", "PMID": 447460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8056", "title": "Slow build-up of optokinetic nystagmus associated with downbeat nystagmus.", "content": "Eye movement recordings in two patients with downbeat nystagmus demonstrated an unusual finding of severely impaired smooth pursuit and relatively unimpaired optokinetic nystagmus (OKN). OKN was characterized by a remarkable, slow build-up of slow-component velocity, similar to that found in afoveate animals. Optokinetic after-nystagmus (OKAN), or transient persistence of nystagmus after cessation of visual stimulation, typical of the optokinetic response of normal human subjects, was also preserved in these patients. These observations suggest that the normal contribution of smooth pursuit to the ocular motor response to rotation of the visual environment can be selectively removed by a lesion at the level of the craniocervical junction.", "contents": "Slow build-up of optokinetic nystagmus associated with downbeat nystagmus. Eye movement recordings in two patients with downbeat nystagmus demonstrated an unusual finding of severely impaired smooth pursuit and relatively unimpaired optokinetic nystagmus (OKN). OKN was characterized by a remarkable, slow build-up of slow-component velocity, similar to that found in afoveate animals. Optokinetic after-nystagmus (OKAN), or transient persistence of nystagmus after cessation of visual stimulation, typical of the optokinetic response of normal human subjects, was also preserved in these patients. These observations suggest that the normal contribution of smooth pursuit to the ocular motor response to rotation of the visual environment can be selectively removed by a lesion at the level of the craniocervical junction.", "PMID": 447461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8057", "title": "Image formation in fundus cameras.", "content": "Imaging in a fundus camera depends more on design of the system than on correction of the first fundus image as formed by the ophthalmoscopic lens. We show here that the designer may use the free parameters of the ophthalmoscopic lens (contact or noncontact) to correct the latter for observation and illumination of the fundus. In both contact and noncontact systems the fundus is illuminated by forming a ring of light on the patient's cornea around a central area (the corneal window) reserved for observation. On the first surface of the crystalline lens, the light also forms a ring which must accomodate the total entrance pupil (TEP) of the observation system in its middle and which is limited on the outside by the patient's iris. The restrictions that result from this situation define the entrance pupil of the bundle of rays that image the marginal point of the retina. The limits of this bundle are imposed by the choice of the angular field of view and by the size of the patient's pupil.", "contents": "Image formation in fundus cameras. Imaging in a fundus camera depends more on design of the system than on correction of the first fundus image as formed by the ophthalmoscopic lens. We show here that the designer may use the free parameters of the ophthalmoscopic lens (contact or noncontact) to correct the latter for observation and illumination of the fundus. In both contact and noncontact systems the fundus is illuminated by forming a ring of light on the patient's cornea around a central area (the corneal window) reserved for observation. On the first surface of the crystalline lens, the light also forms a ring which must accomodate the total entrance pupil (TEP) of the observation system in its middle and which is limited on the outside by the patient's iris. The restrictions that result from this situation define the entrance pupil of the bundle of rays that image the marginal point of the retina. The limits of this bundle are imposed by the choice of the angular field of view and by the size of the patient's pupil.", "PMID": 447462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8058", "title": "Light-triggered rod disc shedding in Xenopus retina in vitro.", "content": "The present study was designed to determine whether light-induced rod outer segment disc shedding occurs when the eye is isolated from the rest of the organism. Whole eye explants of Xenopus laevis were maintained in vitro and either exposed to 5 min of light or kept in darkness. In both the in vitro eyes and in vivo controls exposed to the same conditions, a significant degree of disc shedding occurred within 1 hr of the light stimulus. The disc shedding response was larger in the explanted eyes than in the intact animals. In explants exposed to [3H]leucine for 24 hr, a radioactive band formed at the base of rod outer segments. Thus both light-stimulated disc shedding and disc synthesis occur in the eye kept in vitro. The results of this study are compatible with other recently reported results suggesting that rod disc shedding is initiated within the eye.", "contents": "Light-triggered rod disc shedding in Xenopus retina in vitro. The present study was designed to determine whether light-induced rod outer segment disc shedding occurs when the eye is isolated from the rest of the organism. Whole eye explants of Xenopus laevis were maintained in vitro and either exposed to 5 min of light or kept in darkness. In both the in vitro eyes and in vivo controls exposed to the same conditions, a significant degree of disc shedding occurred within 1 hr of the light stimulus. The disc shedding response was larger in the explanted eyes than in the intact animals. In explants exposed to [3H]leucine for 24 hr, a radioactive band formed at the base of rod outer segments. Thus both light-stimulated disc shedding and disc synthesis occur in the eye kept in vitro. The results of this study are compatible with other recently reported results suggesting that rod disc shedding is initiated within the eye.", "PMID": 447463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8059", "title": "Effect of dipyridamole on prostaglandin-induced ocular hypertension in rabbits.", "content": "The effect of intraperitoneal injections of dipyridamole on the elevations of intraocular pressure and anterior chamber aqueous humor protein produced by topical application of prostaglandin E2 was studied in rabbits. Pretreatment with 100 mg/kg dipyridamole inhibited the prostaglandin E2--induced ocular hypertension and rise of aqueous humor protein. Systemic administration of dipyridamole did not alter the responses of the eye to instilled nitrogen mustard. Topical instillation of dipyridamole was ineffective. Dipyridamole, a clinically available drug, may be useful in the treatment of ocular inflammatory disease.", "contents": "Effect of dipyridamole on prostaglandin-induced ocular hypertension in rabbits. The effect of intraperitoneal injections of dipyridamole on the elevations of intraocular pressure and anterior chamber aqueous humor protein produced by topical application of prostaglandin E2 was studied in rabbits. Pretreatment with 100 mg/kg dipyridamole inhibited the prostaglandin E2--induced ocular hypertension and rise of aqueous humor protein. Systemic administration of dipyridamole did not alter the responses of the eye to instilled nitrogen mustard. Topical instillation of dipyridamole was ineffective. Dipyridamole, a clinically available drug, may be useful in the treatment of ocular inflammatory disease.", "PMID": 447464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8060", "title": "Subject cooperation and the visual evoked response.", "content": "The effects on the visual evoked response (VER) of subject behavior, such as accuracy of fixation, stability of eye position, and degree of concentration, are poorly documented. Experiments were performed on 20 normal subjects to investigate the effects on the VER of eye movements, off-center stimulation, concentration on another task, and voluntary defocusing. It was found that there are some conditions under which a normal subject can produce an abnormal VER which could lead to misdiagnosis.", "contents": "Subject cooperation and the visual evoked response. The effects on the visual evoked response (VER) of subject behavior, such as accuracy of fixation, stability of eye position, and degree of concentration, are poorly documented. Experiments were performed on 20 normal subjects to investigate the effects on the VER of eye movements, off-center stimulation, concentration on another task, and voluntary defocusing. It was found that there are some conditions under which a normal subject can produce an abnormal VER which could lead to misdiagnosis.", "PMID": 447465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8061", "title": "Vitamin E deficiency and the retina: photoreceptor and pigment epithelial changes.", "content": "To investigate the role of normal vitamin E levels and the interrelationships between vitamin E and A in maintaining the visual cells of the retina, weanling female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed vitamin E-free diets differing tenfold in their vitamin A content (0.8 and 8.0 mg of retinol per kilogram of diet). Rats on vitamin E-free diets with the higher vitamin A level exhibited marked disruption of photoreceptor outer segment membranes and a fivefold increase in the number of lipofuscin granules in the pigment epithelial cells which ingest these membranes. Rats on vitamin E-free diets with the lower vitamin A level showed the same retinal damages plus significant loss of photoreceptor cells compared to age-matched rats on control diets. Rods and cones were involved equally, and their pattern of loss was not like that found in vitamin A deficiency. Normal levels of vitamin E probably protect photoreceptor membranes from oxidative damage and retard the accumulation of their remnants and other products of lipid breakdown in the pigment epithelium. The vitamin A status of rats has a significant influence on the extent of damage induced by vitamin E deficiency.", "contents": "Vitamin E deficiency and the retina: photoreceptor and pigment epithelial changes. To investigate the role of normal vitamin E levels and the interrelationships between vitamin E and A in maintaining the visual cells of the retina, weanling female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed vitamin E-free diets differing tenfold in their vitamin A content (0.8 and 8.0 mg of retinol per kilogram of diet). Rats on vitamin E-free diets with the higher vitamin A level exhibited marked disruption of photoreceptor outer segment membranes and a fivefold increase in the number of lipofuscin granules in the pigment epithelial cells which ingest these membranes. Rats on vitamin E-free diets with the lower vitamin A level showed the same retinal damages plus significant loss of photoreceptor cells compared to age-matched rats on control diets. Rods and cones were involved equally, and their pattern of loss was not like that found in vitamin A deficiency. Normal levels of vitamin E probably protect photoreceptor membranes from oxidative damage and retard the accumulation of their remnants and other products of lipid breakdown in the pigment epithelium. The vitamin A status of rats has a significant influence on the extent of damage induced by vitamin E deficiency.", "PMID": 447467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8062", "title": "Alterations of lens protein synthesis in galactosemic rats.", "content": "A differential effect on protein synthesis has been demonstrated in the lenses of galactosemic rats. During galactose cataract development the synthesis of lens crystallins is depressed, whereas that of noncrystallin proteins is unaffected. This effect correlates with the influx of Na+ and loss of K+ from the lens. Removal of the galactose diet results in a gradual recovering of crystallin synthesis to normal levels. In vitro the nuclear cataractous lenses leak crystallins into the media; however, upon 5 day's recovery no leak-out of crystallins could be detected. Both decreased synthesis and leak-out probably account for the marked loss of dry weight of cataractous lenses. These results support the hypothesis that crystallin synthesis may be affected by cation imbalance or changes concomitant with such an imbalance.", "contents": "Alterations of lens protein synthesis in galactosemic rats. A differential effect on protein synthesis has been demonstrated in the lenses of galactosemic rats. During galactose cataract development the synthesis of lens crystallins is depressed, whereas that of noncrystallin proteins is unaffected. This effect correlates with the influx of Na+ and loss of K+ from the lens. Removal of the galactose diet results in a gradual recovering of crystallin synthesis to normal levels. In vitro the nuclear cataractous lenses leak crystallins into the media; however, upon 5 day's recovery no leak-out of crystallins could be detected. Both decreased synthesis and leak-out probably account for the marked loss of dry weight of cataractous lenses. These results support the hypothesis that crystallin synthesis may be affected by cation imbalance or changes concomitant with such an imbalance.", "PMID": 447468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8063", "title": "Rapid assessment of visual function: an electronic sweep technique for the pattern visual evoked potential.", "content": "We have developed an electronic spatial frequency sweep technique for electrophysiological assessment of visual acuity and pattern vision. The technique allows an accurate and reliable measurement of VEPs to a full range of spatial frequencies in just 10 sec. Because the measurements are so rapid, the technique suggests several new improvements in the assessment of visual function. Sweeping spatial frequency linearly and extrapolating the high-frequency region of the VEP spatial-tuning function to zero voltage allows an estimate of acuity which correlates highly with psychophysical estimates of acuity. Variants of the procedure are appropriate for the assessment of refracture error, determination of equality of visual function for the two eyes and of binocular interactions, and for sequential assessment of therapeutic conditions.", "contents": "Rapid assessment of visual function: an electronic sweep technique for the pattern visual evoked potential. We have developed an electronic spatial frequency sweep technique for electrophysiological assessment of visual acuity and pattern vision. The technique allows an accurate and reliable measurement of VEPs to a full range of spatial frequencies in just 10 sec. Because the measurements are so rapid, the technique suggests several new improvements in the assessment of visual function. Sweeping spatial frequency linearly and extrapolating the high-frequency region of the VEP spatial-tuning function to zero voltage allows an estimate of acuity which correlates highly with psychophysical estimates of acuity. Variants of the procedure are appropriate for the assessment of refracture error, determination of equality of visual function for the two eyes and of binocular interactions, and for sequential assessment of therapeutic conditions.", "PMID": 447469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8064", "title": "Suprathreshold spatial frequency detection and binocular interaction in strabismic and anisometropic amblyopia.", "content": "We have investigated suprathreshold contrast sensitivity and binocular interactions in strabismic and anisometropic amblyopes using a reaction time paradigm. For every spatial frequency, reaction time increased as the grating contrast decreased. At all spatial frequencies and contrast values the reaction times using the amblyopic eye were prolonged compared to the nonamblyopic eye, but most markedly at high spatial frequencies. In the middle range of spatial frequencies, the contrast vs. reaction time function for the nonamblyopic eyes was biphasic, suggesting that two separate mechanisms detect gratings at high and low contrast levels. These functions in deep amblyopia were monotonic, and in shallow amblyopia the break in the functions was present but shifted to lower contrast levels. Binocular interaction experiments showed that binocular summation was absent at all contrast levels, but binocular occlusion was evident at high contrast levels for amblyopic observers.", "contents": "Suprathreshold spatial frequency detection and binocular interaction in strabismic and anisometropic amblyopia. We have investigated suprathreshold contrast sensitivity and binocular interactions in strabismic and anisometropic amblyopes using a reaction time paradigm. For every spatial frequency, reaction time increased as the grating contrast decreased. At all spatial frequencies and contrast values the reaction times using the amblyopic eye were prolonged compared to the nonamblyopic eye, but most markedly at high spatial frequencies. In the middle range of spatial frequencies, the contrast vs. reaction time function for the nonamblyopic eyes was biphasic, suggesting that two separate mechanisms detect gratings at high and low contrast levels. These functions in deep amblyopia were monotonic, and in shallow amblyopia the break in the functions was present but shifted to lower contrast levels. Binocular interaction experiments showed that binocular summation was absent at all contrast levels, but binocular occlusion was evident at high contrast levels for amblyopic observers.", "PMID": 447470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8065", "title": "Interocular alignment following visual deprivation in the cat.", "content": "Kittens were placed in the dark just after birth and then removed at various ages for the study of interocular alignment. It was found that kittens dark-reared for 4 months or longer were characteristically incyclotorted with respect to normal animals. Deprivation periods of less than 2 months were ineffective in producing these changes. Divergence of the visual axes was also observed in some dark-reared cats. Pupillary constriction in response to light was much more pronounced in dark-reared cats than in normal cats. This enhanced pupillary reaction persisted for at least 3 weeks after the deprived animals were brought into an illuninated environment. When dark-reared cats were allowed a recovery period in a normally lit visual environment, their ocular alignment changed markedly. The incyclotorsion and divergence of the visual axes disappeared, and instead cats allowed recovery from deprivation could display excyclotorsion and/or convergence of the visual axes. These anomalies of ocular alignment associated with the recovery from visual deprivation could occur following periods of initial deprivation as short as 30 days or as long as 2 years. The mechanisms and possible significance of such anomalies are considered.", "contents": "Interocular alignment following visual deprivation in the cat. Kittens were placed in the dark just after birth and then removed at various ages for the study of interocular alignment. It was found that kittens dark-reared for 4 months or longer were characteristically incyclotorted with respect to normal animals. Deprivation periods of less than 2 months were ineffective in producing these changes. Divergence of the visual axes was also observed in some dark-reared cats. Pupillary constriction in response to light was much more pronounced in dark-reared cats than in normal cats. This enhanced pupillary reaction persisted for at least 3 weeks after the deprived animals were brought into an illuninated environment. When dark-reared cats were allowed a recovery period in a normally lit visual environment, their ocular alignment changed markedly. The incyclotorsion and divergence of the visual axes disappeared, and instead cats allowed recovery from deprivation could display excyclotorsion and/or convergence of the visual axes. These anomalies of ocular alignment associated with the recovery from visual deprivation could occur following periods of initial deprivation as short as 30 days or as long as 2 years. The mechanisms and possible significance of such anomalies are considered.", "PMID": 447471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8066", "title": "Role of visual cortex in interocular alignment.", "content": "The role which the visual cortex plays in the development of interocular alignment in the cat was examined by removing this structure bilaterally in 4 groups of subjects. These included (1) kittens 10 to 14 days of age, (2) 10- to 14-day-old kittens in which one eyelid was sutured shut at the same time, (3) normally reared adult cats, and (4) cats dark-reared until 4 months of age. If the cortex is removed in young kittens, interocular alignment appears to develop normally until the kittens are 60 to 80 days of age. At this time, an abrupt change in alignment resulting in incyclotorsion of the optic axes is observed. If binocular vision is prevented in kittens with neonatal visual cortex lesions by suturing one eyelid shut, convergent strabismus and/or incyclotorsion are frequently observed. This characteristic incyclotorsion does not develop if similar lesions are made in adult cats; no significant alterations of eye alignment occur in these animals even after postoperative survival times of more than 6 months. Incyclotorsion characterizes dark-reared cats when they are first brought into the light, but this diminishes with time and may even be replaced by excyclotorsion after the animals spend a few weeks in the light. If dark-reared cats are decorticated on being brought into the light, these changes are largely prevented. Such animals remain permanently incyclotorted relative to normal cats. The results indicate that the visual cortex plays an important role in the development of torsional alignment of the eyes.", "contents": "Role of visual cortex in interocular alignment. The role which the visual cortex plays in the development of interocular alignment in the cat was examined by removing this structure bilaterally in 4 groups of subjects. These included (1) kittens 10 to 14 days of age, (2) 10- to 14-day-old kittens in which one eyelid was sutured shut at the same time, (3) normally reared adult cats, and (4) cats dark-reared until 4 months of age. If the cortex is removed in young kittens, interocular alignment appears to develop normally until the kittens are 60 to 80 days of age. At this time, an abrupt change in alignment resulting in incyclotorsion of the optic axes is observed. If binocular vision is prevented in kittens with neonatal visual cortex lesions by suturing one eyelid shut, convergent strabismus and/or incyclotorsion are frequently observed. This characteristic incyclotorsion does not develop if similar lesions are made in adult cats; no significant alterations of eye alignment occur in these animals even after postoperative survival times of more than 6 months. Incyclotorsion characterizes dark-reared cats when they are first brought into the light, but this diminishes with time and may even be replaced by excyclotorsion after the animals spend a few weeks in the light. If dark-reared cats are decorticated on being brought into the light, these changes are largely prevented. Such animals remain permanently incyclotorted relative to normal cats. The results indicate that the visual cortex plays an important role in the development of torsional alignment of the eyes.", "PMID": 447472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8067", "title": "The effects of prolonged dark exposure on visual thresholds in young and adult rats.", "content": "A comparison of electroretinogram (ERG) thresholds measured on rats reared in continuous darkness and under cyclic lighting conditions shows that by 30 days of age the dark-reared animals have achieved significantly lower thresholds than the animals reared under cyclic illumination. Ten days of continuous dark exposure produces this same increase in sensitivity in adult rats reared in cyclic lighting. These changes in sensitivity appear to reflect structural changes occurring within the rod outer segments.", "contents": "The effects of prolonged dark exposure on visual thresholds in young and adult rats. A comparison of electroretinogram (ERG) thresholds measured on rats reared in continuous darkness and under cyclic lighting conditions shows that by 30 days of age the dark-reared animals have achieved significantly lower thresholds than the animals reared under cyclic illumination. Ten days of continuous dark exposure produces this same increase in sensitivity in adult rats reared in cyclic lighting. These changes in sensitivity appear to reflect structural changes occurring within the rod outer segments.", "PMID": 447473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8068", "title": "Retinomotor activity and the c-wave of the hypoxic trout retina.", "content": "The teleost retina exhibits retinomotor activity in response to changing light intensity. We have shown that hypoxia interfers with normal retinomotor activity in the dark-adapted rainbow trout, so that the retina assumes an essentially light-adapted configuration with the cones contracted, the rods extended toward the pigmented epithelium, and epithelial pigment expanded. These cell movements appear to be correlated with the marked increase in ERG c-wave amplitude which we consistently observe during hypoxia in trout. Since the a-wave is not immediately affected by hypoxia, this increase in c-wave amplitude may be related to the movement of the rods toward the pigmented epithelium, which would cause a greater than normal change in extracellular [K+] near the apical membrane in response to a light stimulus, leading to an increase in c-wave amplitude.", "contents": "Retinomotor activity and the c-wave of the hypoxic trout retina. The teleost retina exhibits retinomotor activity in response to changing light intensity. We have shown that hypoxia interfers with normal retinomotor activity in the dark-adapted rainbow trout, so that the retina assumes an essentially light-adapted configuration with the cones contracted, the rods extended toward the pigmented epithelium, and epithelial pigment expanded. These cell movements appear to be correlated with the marked increase in ERG c-wave amplitude which we consistently observe during hypoxia in trout. Since the a-wave is not immediately affected by hypoxia, this increase in c-wave amplitude may be related to the movement of the rods toward the pigmented epithelium, which would cause a greater than normal change in extracellular [K+] near the apical membrane in response to a light stimulus, leading to an increase in c-wave amplitude.", "PMID": 447474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8069", "title": "Topical induction of delayed hypersensitivity in the bladder.", "content": "Delayed hypersensitivity reactions have been elicited by topical application of dinitrofluorobenzene to the bladder mucosa of sensitized dogs and rats. The resultant animal models may be of value in assessing the role of topically induced delayed hypersensitivity in the attempted immunotherapy of bladder cancer.", "contents": "Topical induction of delayed hypersensitivity in the bladder. Delayed hypersensitivity reactions have been elicited by topical application of dinitrofluorobenzene to the bladder mucosa of sensitized dogs and rats. The resultant animal models may be of value in assessing the role of topically induced delayed hypersensitivity in the attempted immunotherapy of bladder cancer.", "PMID": 447475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8070", "title": "Ureteral reimplantation with proximal urinary diversion: laboratory investigation.", "content": "In an effort to determine whether or not urine flow is necessary for proper healing after ureteral reimplantation, a laboratory study was carried out using mongrel dogs. Twelve animals underwent three separate surgical procedures in order to show whether ureteroneocystostomy in the presence of proximal urinary diversion would lead to subsequent stenosis of the reimplantation sites. Our findings indicate that stenosis does not occur regardless of whether or not dry ureteral implants are stented. These studies were carried out in ureters of normal caliber and animals otherwise free of disease. It is our contention that under these circumstances, dry ureteral reimplantation will result in satisfactory healing without stricture or stenosis", "contents": "Ureteral reimplantation with proximal urinary diversion: laboratory investigation. In an effort to determine whether or not urine flow is necessary for proper healing after ureteral reimplantation, a laboratory study was carried out using mongrel dogs. Twelve animals underwent three separate surgical procedures in order to show whether ureteroneocystostomy in the presence of proximal urinary diversion would lead to subsequent stenosis of the reimplantation sites. Our findings indicate that stenosis does not occur regardless of whether or not dry ureteral implants are stented. These studies were carried out in ureters of normal caliber and animals otherwise free of disease. It is our contention that under these circumstances, dry ureteral reimplantation will result in satisfactory healing without stricture or stenosis", "PMID": 447476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8071", "title": "Static testicular imaging utilizing 201Tl.", "content": "Successful testicular imaging of rat and rabbit testes was achieved utilizing the radiopharmaceutical Thallium-201. These observations indicate the usefulness of Thallium-201 as an agent for testicular imaging and suggest a clinical application in localizing the impalpable testis in humans.", "contents": "Static testicular imaging utilizing 201Tl. Successful testicular imaging of rat and rabbit testes was achieved utilizing the radiopharmaceutical Thallium-201. These observations indicate the usefulness of Thallium-201 as an agent for testicular imaging and suggest a clinical application in localizing the impalpable testis in humans.", "PMID": 447477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8072", "title": "Testicular steroid secretion and peripheral serum steroid concentrations in patients with prostatic carcinoma after short-term estrogen treatment.", "content": "The short-term effects of the administration of estradiol on testicular steroid production were assessed by measuring the serum concentrations of testosterone, and a number of its precursors and metabolites, in the spermatic and peripheral veins of five inguinal hernia patients and one untreated prostatic carcinoma patient, as well as in 18 patients with advanced prostatic carcinoma, treated for 1 to 9 days with a single injection of 80 mg of polyestradiol phosphate (Estradurin). With the exception of progesterone, the treatment resulted in a significantly decreased testicular production of all steroids measured in spermatic vein serum; the same finding holds true for concentrations of testosterone, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in peripheral vein serum before and after treatment. By comparing the steroid concentrations in the spermatic and peripheral veins it is evident that the testicular production of all steroids measured persisted, although at a decreased level, even 7 to 9 days after Estradurin administration; this was most pronounced in the case of testosterone and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone. It is apparent that the effect of estradiol on testicular steroid production is a gradual process which takes several days before it is clearly evident.", "contents": "Testicular steroid secretion and peripheral serum steroid concentrations in patients with prostatic carcinoma after short-term estrogen treatment. The short-term effects of the administration of estradiol on testicular steroid production were assessed by measuring the serum concentrations of testosterone, and a number of its precursors and metabolites, in the spermatic and peripheral veins of five inguinal hernia patients and one untreated prostatic carcinoma patient, as well as in 18 patients with advanced prostatic carcinoma, treated for 1 to 9 days with a single injection of 80 mg of polyestradiol phosphate (Estradurin). With the exception of progesterone, the treatment resulted in a significantly decreased testicular production of all steroids measured in spermatic vein serum; the same finding holds true for concentrations of testosterone, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in peripheral vein serum before and after treatment. By comparing the steroid concentrations in the spermatic and peripheral veins it is evident that the testicular production of all steroids measured persisted, although at a decreased level, even 7 to 9 days after Estradurin administration; this was most pronounced in the case of testosterone and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone. It is apparent that the effect of estradiol on testicular steroid production is a gradual process which takes several days before it is clearly evident.", "PMID": 447478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8073", "title": "Citrate in daily and fasting urine: results of controls, patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium urolithiasis, and primary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "In three groups--patients with recurrent calcium urolithiasis (RCU), patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT), and healthy controls--citrate was measured enzymatically in 24 and in 2-hr urine after an overnight fast. Citrate excretion per 24 hr was significantly lower in RCU than in age and sex matched controls, whereas there was no significant difference in citrate excretion in urines from the 2-hr morning collection. In pHPT citrate was also lower than in controls and fell within the range of RCU of comparable age. Both categories of urines (24 and 2hr) have in common the characteristic that the actual citrate concentration is lower by 50 per cent in RCU and pHPT than in controls, mainly as a result of the higher urine volume. Correction of citrate for creatinine does not disclose further differences among the populations studied but conversely hampers exact interpretation of urinary citrate in the absence of strict separation of individuals according to sex and age. From these data we conclude that (i) a low excretion and concentration of urinary citrate is detectable in calcium lithiasis and may contribute to a deficiency in inhibitory activity against nucleating processes in stone-forming urine; and (ii) the differences in urinary citrate elicited in samples of 24 and 2-hr morning urine are of unknown origin and merit further investigations.", "contents": "Citrate in daily and fasting urine: results of controls, patients with recurrent idiopathic calcium urolithiasis, and primary hyperparathyroidism. In three groups--patients with recurrent calcium urolithiasis (RCU), patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT), and healthy controls--citrate was measured enzymatically in 24 and in 2-hr urine after an overnight fast. Citrate excretion per 24 hr was significantly lower in RCU than in age and sex matched controls, whereas there was no significant difference in citrate excretion in urines from the 2-hr morning collection. In pHPT citrate was also lower than in controls and fell within the range of RCU of comparable age. Both categories of urines (24 and 2hr) have in common the characteristic that the actual citrate concentration is lower by 50 per cent in RCU and pHPT than in controls, mainly as a result of the higher urine volume. Correction of citrate for creatinine does not disclose further differences among the populations studied but conversely hampers exact interpretation of urinary citrate in the absence of strict separation of individuals according to sex and age. From these data we conclude that (i) a low excretion and concentration of urinary citrate is detectable in calcium lithiasis and may contribute to a deficiency in inhibitory activity against nucleating processes in stone-forming urine; and (ii) the differences in urinary citrate elicited in samples of 24 and 2-hr morning urine are of unknown origin and merit further investigations.", "PMID": 447479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8074", "title": "Effect of renal vein ligation with or without suprarenal inferior vena cava ligation on sodium and phosphate excretions during acute extracellular volume expansion in the rat.", "content": "Right nephrectomy with or without inferior vena cava (IVC) ligation was performed in rats 1 week after left renal vein ligation. Left kidney function and sodium and phosphate excretions by volume expansion were investigated. Inulin (CIN) and para-aminohippuric acid (CPAH) clearances and fractional excretions of sodium (FENa) and phosphate (FEP) were examined before and after volume expansion was induced by normal saline. Kidney functions were well preserved with development of collateral venous channels; biochemical parameters returned to the normal ranges. However, CIN and CPAH were reduced to 33 to 25 per cent of control values and the filtration fraction was elevated. After volume expansion, a marked increment of FENa was observed in cases of IVC ligation but the increment in animals without IVC ligation was less than in the control group. FEP was also increased in experimental groups but the magnitude of phosphaturia was not so prominent compared to the control group. The increment of FEP was not comparable to that of FENa. Thus, from the aspect of kidney function, this experiment showed the rationality of left renal vein ligation with contralateral nephrectomy. From the pathophysiologic aspect, the magnitude of natriuresis and phosphaturia by volume expansion was not prominent and a reduced reabsorptive capacity for sodium and phosphate may exist in a solitary kidney with a ligated renal vein. When suprarenal IVC ligation was also done, prominent natriuresis was observed with saline infusion.", "contents": "Effect of renal vein ligation with or without suprarenal inferior vena cava ligation on sodium and phosphate excretions during acute extracellular volume expansion in the rat. Right nephrectomy with or without inferior vena cava (IVC) ligation was performed in rats 1 week after left renal vein ligation. Left kidney function and sodium and phosphate excretions by volume expansion were investigated. Inulin (CIN) and para-aminohippuric acid (CPAH) clearances and fractional excretions of sodium (FENa) and phosphate (FEP) were examined before and after volume expansion was induced by normal saline. Kidney functions were well preserved with development of collateral venous channels; biochemical parameters returned to the normal ranges. However, CIN and CPAH were reduced to 33 to 25 per cent of control values and the filtration fraction was elevated. After volume expansion, a marked increment of FENa was observed in cases of IVC ligation but the increment in animals without IVC ligation was less than in the control group. FEP was also increased in experimental groups but the magnitude of phosphaturia was not so prominent compared to the control group. The increment of FEP was not comparable to that of FENa. Thus, from the aspect of kidney function, this experiment showed the rationality of left renal vein ligation with contralateral nephrectomy. From the pathophysiologic aspect, the magnitude of natriuresis and phosphaturia by volume expansion was not prominent and a reduced reabsorptive capacity for sodium and phosphate may exist in a solitary kidney with a ligated renal vein. When suprarenal IVC ligation was also done, prominent natriuresis was observed with saline infusion.", "PMID": 447480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8075", "title": "The effect of vitamin A on the migration and DNA synthesis of rat bladder tumor cell line NBT II in culture.", "content": "In the presence of vitamin A, NBT II cells, derived from a carcinoma of rat bladder, grew as a monolayer with diminished piling up. Keratinization, which normally appeared within stratified cells in postconfluent cultures, was inhibited. A \"wounding\" technique suitable for quantitative analysis of cell migration was developed for confluent cultures grown on glass coverslips. Vitamin A treatment enhanced the migration of cells from the wound edge. In dense postconfluent monolayer cultures, vitamin A treatment maintained a higher percentage of cells in DNA synthesis than in the control cultures, as determined by 3H-TdR uptake and autoradiography. In contrast, in sparse cultures vitamin A did not stimulate DNA synthesis or increase the mitotic index. This stimulatory effect, limited to dense cultures, may be attributable to vitamin A causing viable cells to be shed into the medium, thereby maintaining the monolayer just at confluence. Thus vitamin A inhibits squamous cell differentiation, enhances migration, and maintains the culture in the proliferative phase. In a different system of high cell density, NBT II aggregates cultured in a combined matrix of chick plasma clot and collagen-coated sponge, vitamin A also enhanced the migration of cells. These results may explain, in part, the failure of vitamin A to inhibit completely the growth of some established tumors.", "contents": "The effect of vitamin A on the migration and DNA synthesis of rat bladder tumor cell line NBT II in culture. In the presence of vitamin A, NBT II cells, derived from a carcinoma of rat bladder, grew as a monolayer with diminished piling up. Keratinization, which normally appeared within stratified cells in postconfluent cultures, was inhibited. A \"wounding\" technique suitable for quantitative analysis of cell migration was developed for confluent cultures grown on glass coverslips. Vitamin A treatment enhanced the migration of cells from the wound edge. In dense postconfluent monolayer cultures, vitamin A treatment maintained a higher percentage of cells in DNA synthesis than in the control cultures, as determined by 3H-TdR uptake and autoradiography. In contrast, in sparse cultures vitamin A did not stimulate DNA synthesis or increase the mitotic index. This stimulatory effect, limited to dense cultures, may be attributable to vitamin A causing viable cells to be shed into the medium, thereby maintaining the monolayer just at confluence. Thus vitamin A inhibits squamous cell differentiation, enhances migration, and maintains the culture in the proliferative phase. In a different system of high cell density, NBT II aggregates cultured in a combined matrix of chick plasma clot and collagen-coated sponge, vitamin A also enhanced the migration of cells. These results may explain, in part, the failure of vitamin A to inhibit completely the growth of some established tumors.", "PMID": 447481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8076", "title": "Establishment and characterization of a human prostatic carcinoma cell line (PC-3).", "content": "The establishment, characterization, and tumorigenicity of a new epithelial cell line (PC-3) from a human prostatic adenocarcinoma metastatic to bone is reported. The cultured cells show anchorage-independent growth in both monolayers and in soft agar suspension and produce subcutaneous tumors in nude mice. Culture of the transplanted tumor yielded a human cell line with characteristics identical to those used initially to produce the tumor. PC-3 has a greatly reduced dependence upon serum for growth when compared to normal prostatic epithelial cells and does not respond to androgens, glucocorticoids, or epidermal or fibroblast gowth factors. Karyotypic analysis by quinacrine banding revealed the cells to be completely aneuploid with a modal chromosome number in the hypotriploid range. At least 10 distinctive marker chromosomes were identified. The overall karyotype as well as the marker chromosomes are distinct from those of the HeLa cell. Electron microscopic studies revealed many features common to neoplastic cells of epithelial origin including numerous microvilli, junctional complexes, abnormal nuclei and nucleoli, abnormal mitochondria, annulate lamellae, and lipoidal bodies. Overall, the functional and morphologic characteristics of PC-3 are those of a poorly-differentiated adenocarcinoma. These cells should be useful in investigating the biochemical changes in advanced prostatic cancer cells and in assessing their response to chemotherapeutic agents.", "contents": "Establishment and characterization of a human prostatic carcinoma cell line (PC-3). The establishment, characterization, and tumorigenicity of a new epithelial cell line (PC-3) from a human prostatic adenocarcinoma metastatic to bone is reported. The cultured cells show anchorage-independent growth in both monolayers and in soft agar suspension and produce subcutaneous tumors in nude mice. Culture of the transplanted tumor yielded a human cell line with characteristics identical to those used initially to produce the tumor. PC-3 has a greatly reduced dependence upon serum for growth when compared to normal prostatic epithelial cells and does not respond to androgens, glucocorticoids, or epidermal or fibroblast gowth factors. Karyotypic analysis by quinacrine banding revealed the cells to be completely aneuploid with a modal chromosome number in the hypotriploid range. At least 10 distinctive marker chromosomes were identified. The overall karyotype as well as the marker chromosomes are distinct from those of the HeLa cell. Electron microscopic studies revealed many features common to neoplastic cells of epithelial origin including numerous microvilli, junctional complexes, abnormal nuclei and nucleoli, abnormal mitochondria, annulate lamellae, and lipoidal bodies. Overall, the functional and morphologic characteristics of PC-3 are those of a poorly-differentiated adenocarcinoma. These cells should be useful in investigating the biochemical changes in advanced prostatic cancer cells and in assessing their response to chemotherapeutic agents.", "PMID": 447482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8077", "title": "Effects of neonatal steroids on male sex tissues.", "content": "The effects of neonatally administered sex hormones on the growth and hormone responsiveness of the sex accessory tissues of the adult male rat were investigated. If intact neonatal male rats are treated with estradiol diproprionate, the size of the ventral prostate in the adult animal at day 70 of age is less than 10 per cent of the untreated control value. If androgens are administered to intact neonates, the size of the ventral prostate at day 70 is one-third to one-half of the untreated control values. The androgenic response of these abnormally small prostates was tested by treating these adult animals with testosterone propionate daily from day 70 to day 83. Toward ventral prostates of the animals treated with estrogens in the neonatal period show a very limited response to exogenous androgens at adulthood. In contrast, the ventral prostates of the animals receiving testosterone propionate or dihydrotestosterone propionate in the neonatal period were fully responsive to exogenous androgens. In addition, the ability of the adult prostate to respond fully to androgens requires the presence of the testes in the neonatal period. Comparing neonatal castrates with intact neonates, it was shown that the administration of androgen in the neonatal period was only partially effective in restoring the androgenic responsiveness of the adult ventral prostate. This suggests that other testicular factors, or the presence of testosterone at other time periods before the onset of puberty, may be necessary for the normal androgenic induced response of the adult sex accessory tissues.", "contents": "Effects of neonatal steroids on male sex tissues. The effects of neonatally administered sex hormones on the growth and hormone responsiveness of the sex accessory tissues of the adult male rat were investigated. If intact neonatal male rats are treated with estradiol diproprionate, the size of the ventral prostate in the adult animal at day 70 of age is less than 10 per cent of the untreated control value. If androgens are administered to intact neonates, the size of the ventral prostate at day 70 is one-third to one-half of the untreated control values. The androgenic response of these abnormally small prostates was tested by treating these adult animals with testosterone propionate daily from day 70 to day 83. Toward ventral prostates of the animals treated with estrogens in the neonatal period show a very limited response to exogenous androgens at adulthood. In contrast, the ventral prostates of the animals receiving testosterone propionate or dihydrotestosterone propionate in the neonatal period were fully responsive to exogenous androgens. In addition, the ability of the adult prostate to respond fully to androgens requires the presence of the testes in the neonatal period. Comparing neonatal castrates with intact neonates, it was shown that the administration of androgen in the neonatal period was only partially effective in restoring the androgenic responsiveness of the adult ventral prostate. This suggests that other testicular factors, or the presence of testosterone at other time periods before the onset of puberty, may be necessary for the normal androgenic induced response of the adult sex accessory tissues.", "PMID": 447483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8078", "title": "Experimental penetrating renal trauma: a comparison of bench and in situ repair.", "content": "Penetrating renal trauma often requires total nephrectomy. To minimize this high rate of renal loss, extracorporeal (bench) surgery, already an accepted method for treating renovascular and renal tumor, might be used in patients with parenchymal injuries to provide a more meticulous repair and improved renal function. To compare the effectiveness of this technique with that of in situ repair, 32 dogs were divided into two equal groups. They all received a standardized injury to the renal parenchyma. Contralateral nephrectomy was performed. Renal function was evaluated for 21 days. Serum creatinine values were comparable in the two groups. Bench repair offered excellent results but not better than in situ repair for parenchymal and collecting system injuries.", "contents": "Experimental penetrating renal trauma: a comparison of bench and in situ repair. Penetrating renal trauma often requires total nephrectomy. To minimize this high rate of renal loss, extracorporeal (bench) surgery, already an accepted method for treating renovascular and renal tumor, might be used in patients with parenchymal injuries to provide a more meticulous repair and improved renal function. To compare the effectiveness of this technique with that of in situ repair, 32 dogs were divided into two equal groups. They all received a standardized injury to the renal parenchyma. Contralateral nephrectomy was performed. Renal function was evaluated for 21 days. Serum creatinine values were comparable in the two groups. Bench repair offered excellent results but not better than in situ repair for parenchymal and collecting system injuries.", "PMID": 447484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8079", "title": "A rat prostatic adenocarcinoma as a model for the human disease.", "content": "A transplantable, metastasizing prostatic adenocarcinoma (Tumor I) in Lobund Wistar rats was examined for activity and distribution of five hydrolytic enzymes and for ability to accumulate radioactive zinc. The results suggest that the tumor had arisen in the ventral lobe of the prostate and that its growth was not affected by orchiectomy, adrenalectomy, or replacement treatment with exogenous androgen or corticosteroids. The androgen independency of the tumor was further shown by the low uptake of 3H-testosterone, in contrast to the high uptake in the ventral prostate. Tumor growth was retarded by Cytoxan but not by 5-fluorouracil, Estracyt, or streptozotocin, three agents clinically effective in the treatment of some patients with prostatic cancer resistant to endocrine therapy. It is concluded that this tumor in Lobund Wistar rats may be an adequate model for human prostatic cancers resistant to the agents mentioned above.", "contents": "A rat prostatic adenocarcinoma as a model for the human disease. A transplantable, metastasizing prostatic adenocarcinoma (Tumor I) in Lobund Wistar rats was examined for activity and distribution of five hydrolytic enzymes and for ability to accumulate radioactive zinc. The results suggest that the tumor had arisen in the ventral lobe of the prostate and that its growth was not affected by orchiectomy, adrenalectomy, or replacement treatment with exogenous androgen or corticosteroids. The androgen independency of the tumor was further shown by the low uptake of 3H-testosterone, in contrast to the high uptake in the ventral prostate. Tumor growth was retarded by Cytoxan but not by 5-fluorouracil, Estracyt, or streptozotocin, three agents clinically effective in the treatment of some patients with prostatic cancer resistant to endocrine therapy. It is concluded that this tumor in Lobund Wistar rats may be an adequate model for human prostatic cancers resistant to the agents mentioned above.", "PMID": 447485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8080", "title": "Renal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzyme pattern in short-term experimental obstructive nephropathy.", "content": "The lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme pattern of different zones of rat kidney has been investigated at different stages after unilateral ureteral obstruction. In the obstructed kidney, the cortical tissue showed an early (3 days) progressive shift toward a cathodic zymogram; at 7 days LDH-5 isoenzyme was the predominant fraction (44.7 +/- 2.5). In the outer medullary tissue a similar change was observed even though middle fractions were always quite evident. No significant changes were found in the inner medullary tissue. The observed enzymatic abnormalities are related to renal hypoxia and to the occurrence of a less differentiated nephronic cell population. They represent a metabolic marker of the morphologic and functional alterations which occur in obstructive nephropathy.", "contents": "Renal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzyme pattern in short-term experimental obstructive nephropathy. The lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme pattern of different zones of rat kidney has been investigated at different stages after unilateral ureteral obstruction. In the obstructed kidney, the cortical tissue showed an early (3 days) progressive shift toward a cathodic zymogram; at 7 days LDH-5 isoenzyme was the predominant fraction (44.7 +/- 2.5). In the outer medullary tissue a similar change was observed even though middle fractions were always quite evident. No significant changes were found in the inner medullary tissue. The observed enzymatic abnormalities are related to renal hypoxia and to the occurrence of a less differentiated nephronic cell population. They represent a metabolic marker of the morphologic and functional alterations which occur in obstructive nephropathy.", "PMID": 447486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8081", "title": "Muscular development of the bladder neck in the human fetus.", "content": "We conducted a histologic study of the muscular development of the bladder neck in human fetuses of 5 to 23 cm crown-rump length (CRL) and in neonates in special reference to the middle circular layer of the posterior wall of the bladder neck (posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck) and the deep trigonal muscle. Our attempt was to determine the anatomic relationship between and the origins of the two musculatures. The posterior circular muscle had begun to differentiate in the fetus of 8.3 cm CRL in which the trigonal musculature was indistinguishable. Differentiation of the deep trigonal musculature was evident in the fetus of 17 cm CRL; a complete growth in which the muscle was connected to the posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck was evident only in the largest fetus (23 cm CRL). We conclude that the deep trigonal muscle and the posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck are of different origins.", "contents": "Muscular development of the bladder neck in the human fetus. We conducted a histologic study of the muscular development of the bladder neck in human fetuses of 5 to 23 cm crown-rump length (CRL) and in neonates in special reference to the middle circular layer of the posterior wall of the bladder neck (posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck) and the deep trigonal muscle. Our attempt was to determine the anatomic relationship between and the origins of the two musculatures. The posterior circular muscle had begun to differentiate in the fetus of 8.3 cm CRL in which the trigonal musculature was indistinguishable. Differentiation of the deep trigonal musculature was evident in the fetus of 17 cm CRL; a complete growth in which the muscle was connected to the posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck was evident only in the largest fetus (23 cm CRL). We conclude that the deep trigonal muscle and the posterior circular muscle of the bladder neck are of different origins.", "PMID": 447487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8082", "title": "The state of urethral musculature during the detrusor areflexia after spinal cord transection.", "content": "The state of the urethral musculature was studied using the urethral pressure profile and electromyographic recording in periurethral striated muscle. In dogs under chloralose anesthesia a micturition reflex could be elicited by bladder distension and somatic reflexes could be elicited by various stimuli. Both the urethral profile and electromyographic activity could be recorded immediately after surgical transection of the spinal cord between T2 and T8 but the bladder remained areflexic for more than 12 hr. Pharmacologic analysis of the urethral pressure profile revealed a substantial contribution from both sympathetic and somatic components. The periurethral striated musculature usually responded to bladder filling in a similar manner both before and after transection, although there was no bladder contraction in the latter circumstance. It is concluded that the urethra does not experience the same depression of reflex activity as does the bladder in the acute stage after spinal cord transection.", "contents": "The state of urethral musculature during the detrusor areflexia after spinal cord transection. The state of the urethral musculature was studied using the urethral pressure profile and electromyographic recording in periurethral striated muscle. In dogs under chloralose anesthesia a micturition reflex could be elicited by bladder distension and somatic reflexes could be elicited by various stimuli. Both the urethral profile and electromyographic activity could be recorded immediately after surgical transection of the spinal cord between T2 and T8 but the bladder remained areflexic for more than 12 hr. Pharmacologic analysis of the urethral pressure profile revealed a substantial contribution from both sympathetic and somatic components. The periurethral striated musculature usually responded to bladder filling in a similar manner both before and after transection, although there was no bladder contraction in the latter circumstance. It is concluded that the urethra does not experience the same depression of reflex activity as does the bladder in the acute stage after spinal cord transection.", "PMID": 447488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8083", "title": "Patterns of recovery of renal function after surgical relief of chronic bilateral partial ureteral obstruction.", "content": "A canine model of bilateral chronic partial ureteral obstruction with one side severely obstructed and the other moderately obstructed was used to determine which kidney should be initially released to facilitate maximum recovery of renal function. The data show a significantly greater return of total renal function (20 per cent) if the more severely injured kidney is released first.", "contents": "Patterns of recovery of renal function after surgical relief of chronic bilateral partial ureteral obstruction. A canine model of bilateral chronic partial ureteral obstruction with one side severely obstructed and the other moderately obstructed was used to determine which kidney should be initially released to facilitate maximum recovery of renal function. The data show a significantly greater return of total renal function (20 per cent) if the more severely injured kidney is released first.", "PMID": 447489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8084", "title": "The embryologic origin of the caput epididymidis in the rat.", "content": "The ACI rat with its known incidence of ipsilateral agenesis of the kidney and ductus deferens provides an excellent mammalian model for the study of the embryologic origin or the caput epididymidis. Because a portion of the caput epididymidis remains in these affected animals, it seems to be derived from the mesonephric tubules rather than the mesonephric duct in the rat. Histochemical assays also support the common origin of both the ductuli efferentes and caput epididymidis from the mesonephric tubules.", "contents": "The embryologic origin of the caput epididymidis in the rat. The ACI rat with its known incidence of ipsilateral agenesis of the kidney and ductus deferens provides an excellent mammalian model for the study of the embryologic origin or the caput epididymidis. Because a portion of the caput epididymidis remains in these affected animals, it seems to be derived from the mesonephric tubules rather than the mesonephric duct in the rat. Histochemical assays also support the common origin of both the ductuli efferentes and caput epididymidis from the mesonephric tubules.", "PMID": 447490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8085", "title": "Effects of estrogen upon the fine structure of epithelium and stroma in the rat ventral prostate gland.", "content": "We studied the effects of estradiol upon the fine structure of the rat ventral prostate, with special emphasis on the interstitial tissue. Intact and castrated rats were injected with estradiol or testosterone in combination, or with peanut oil (control). Estrogen exerted an antiandrogenic effect on the epithelium of intact animals resulting in lower epithelial height and reduction in the number of cell organelles and secretory bodies; however, the prostate gland did not atrophy to the same degree as that in castrated controls. In castrates, estradiol had no discernible effect upon the glandular epithelium. Although testosterone alone was able to restore glandular morphology to normal in these animals, estrogen in combination prevented regeneration of rough endoplasmic reticulum and elicited the formation of large lipid-like inclusions and the accumulation of secretory bodies in the apical zone of many cells. Intact animals treated with these hormones in combination exhibited many of the same effects except that a more normal configuration of rough endoplasmic reticulum was present. In castrates, the prostatic stroma became thickened, with a large increase in fibrous material between and surrounding each acinus, although smooth muscle cells retained their normal cytology. With estradiol treatment, singly or in combination with testosterone, smooth muscle cells increased in size and number and organelles decreased in number, cytoplasm became more electron dense, and nuclei became more heterochromatic. Surface vesicles were profuse in smooth muscle cells in animals treated with estradiol alone; larger phagocytic-like vacuoles were characteristic of the glands of animals treated with estrogen and testosterone in combination. In these latter treatment groups, testosterone prevented the overall hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the interstitial tissue; to a degree, endogenous testosterone levels in intact animals treated with estradiol alone prevented these effects as well.", "contents": "Effects of estrogen upon the fine structure of epithelium and stroma in the rat ventral prostate gland. We studied the effects of estradiol upon the fine structure of the rat ventral prostate, with special emphasis on the interstitial tissue. Intact and castrated rats were injected with estradiol or testosterone in combination, or with peanut oil (control). Estrogen exerted an antiandrogenic effect on the epithelium of intact animals resulting in lower epithelial height and reduction in the number of cell organelles and secretory bodies; however, the prostate gland did not atrophy to the same degree as that in castrated controls. In castrates, estradiol had no discernible effect upon the glandular epithelium. Although testosterone alone was able to restore glandular morphology to normal in these animals, estrogen in combination prevented regeneration of rough endoplasmic reticulum and elicited the formation of large lipid-like inclusions and the accumulation of secretory bodies in the apical zone of many cells. Intact animals treated with these hormones in combination exhibited many of the same effects except that a more normal configuration of rough endoplasmic reticulum was present. In castrates, the prostatic stroma became thickened, with a large increase in fibrous material between and surrounding each acinus, although smooth muscle cells retained their normal cytology. With estradiol treatment, singly or in combination with testosterone, smooth muscle cells increased in size and number and organelles decreased in number, cytoplasm became more electron dense, and nuclei became more heterochromatic. Surface vesicles were profuse in smooth muscle cells in animals treated with estradiol alone; larger phagocytic-like vacuoles were characteristic of the glands of animals treated with estrogen and testosterone in combination. In these latter treatment groups, testosterone prevented the overall hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the interstitial tissue; to a degree, endogenous testosterone levels in intact animals treated with estradiol alone prevented these effects as well.", "PMID": 447491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8086", "title": "Bladder and urethral responses to sympathetic stimulation.", "content": "Bladder and urethral pressure responses were recorded in 47 cats subjected to electrical stimulation of sympathetic fibers isolated at the caudal mesenteric ganglion before and after complete sacral denervation. Recorded responses were complex and seemed to be at least partially dependent on afferent and efferent pelvic nerve activity. Sacral denervation alone did not influence urethral closing pressure but the combination of sacral and hypogastric denervation resulted in a marked loss of urethral sphincter function.", "contents": "Bladder and urethral responses to sympathetic stimulation. Bladder and urethral pressure responses were recorded in 47 cats subjected to electrical stimulation of sympathetic fibers isolated at the caudal mesenteric ganglion before and after complete sacral denervation. Recorded responses were complex and seemed to be at least partially dependent on afferent and efferent pelvic nerve activity. Sacral denervation alone did not influence urethral closing pressure but the combination of sacral and hypogastric denervation resulted in a marked loss of urethral sphincter function.", "PMID": 447492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8087", "title": "Patterns of gastrointestinal neoplasms in Israel.", "content": "Review of the incidence of gastrointestinal neoplasms in Israel reveals that gastric and colorectal cancers present a major problem in the country. Diet has been postulated as a possible etiologic factor on the basis of a) an indirect correlation between disease incidence and the consumption of various food constituents, b) animal experimentation, and c) case-control dietary studies. Studies conducted in Israel point to high starch consumption as a risk factor in gastric cancer and low fiber intake as a risk factor in colon cancer. Mechanisms by which fiber may exert its protective effect include shortening of intestinal transit time, bulkier stool, lowered absorption of potential carcinogens, reduction of the conversion of bile salts to potentially carcinogenic sterols, interference with the cholesterol pool and a lower ratio of anaerobic:aerobic bacteria in the intestinal flora. The potential effect of excessive starch consumption is unclear, although it may facilitate the formation of nitrosamines.", "contents": "Patterns of gastrointestinal neoplasms in Israel. Review of the incidence of gastrointestinal neoplasms in Israel reveals that gastric and colorectal cancers present a major problem in the country. Diet has been postulated as a possible etiologic factor on the basis of a) an indirect correlation between disease incidence and the consumption of various food constituents, b) animal experimentation, and c) case-control dietary studies. Studies conducted in Israel point to high starch consumption as a risk factor in gastric cancer and low fiber intake as a risk factor in colon cancer. Mechanisms by which fiber may exert its protective effect include shortening of intestinal transit time, bulkier stool, lowered absorption of potential carcinogens, reduction of the conversion of bile salts to potentially carcinogenic sterols, interference with the cholesterol pool and a lower ratio of anaerobic:aerobic bacteria in the intestinal flora. The potential effect of excessive starch consumption is unclear, although it may facilitate the formation of nitrosamines.", "PMID": 447494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8088", "title": "Epidemiology of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: etiologic implications.", "content": "Good epidemiologic studies of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are available from only a limited number of geographic locations and populations. A review of the data reveals some interesting facts. There is considerable geographic variation in the incidence of both diseases, which is more marked for Crohn's disease. When various populations living in one geographic location were compared, great differences became apparent with respect to both diseases. Studies performed in nine different populations during the last three decades showed a marked rise, up to 400%, in the incidence of Crohn's disease in each population. No such rise was documented for ulcerative colitis. Studies on Ashkenazic Jews in different parts of the world showed very marked variations in the incidence of both diseases, better documented for Crohn's disease. Both diseases are very rare in several nonindustrialized populations and their incidence rises with migration to an urban environment. All these data point to the preponderance of environmental factors in the causation of these two diseases of unknown etiology.", "contents": "Epidemiology of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: etiologic implications. Good epidemiologic studies of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are available from only a limited number of geographic locations and populations. A review of the data reveals some interesting facts. There is considerable geographic variation in the incidence of both diseases, which is more marked for Crohn's disease. When various populations living in one geographic location were compared, great differences became apparent with respect to both diseases. Studies performed in nine different populations during the last three decades showed a marked rise, up to 400%, in the incidence of Crohn's disease in each population. No such rise was documented for ulcerative colitis. Studies on Ashkenazic Jews in different parts of the world showed very marked variations in the incidence of both diseases, better documented for Crohn's disease. Both diseases are very rare in several nonindustrialized populations and their incidence rises with migration to an urban environment. All these data point to the preponderance of environmental factors in the causation of these two diseases of unknown etiology.", "PMID": 447495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8089", "title": "Epidemiology of noninfective intestinal diseases in various ethnic groups in South Africa.", "content": "The prevalences of bowel diseases (hemorrhoids, appendicitis, polyps, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease, and colon cancer) are similar in South African whites and in populations of prosperous western countries. Among rural South African blacks with a traditional life style, these diseases are very uncommon or almost unknown. Among the urban South African blacks with a partially westernized life style, the diseases remain uncommon. Frequencies of appendectomies and colon cancer in urban blacks have increased little during the last three decades, although an increase undoubtedly has occurred in the frequency of diverticular disease. Frequencies of bowel diseases in South African Indian and colored (Eurafrican, Malay) populations are intermediate. Because the diseases are almost entirely of environmental causation (due to principally to changes in diet), prevalences almost certainly will increase in blacks, Indians and coloreds, as their way of life becomes further westernized.", "contents": "Epidemiology of noninfective intestinal diseases in various ethnic groups in South Africa. The prevalences of bowel diseases (hemorrhoids, appendicitis, polyps, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease, and colon cancer) are similar in South African whites and in populations of prosperous western countries. Among rural South African blacks with a traditional life style, these diseases are very uncommon or almost unknown. Among the urban South African blacks with a partially westernized life style, the diseases remain uncommon. Frequencies of appendectomies and colon cancer in urban blacks have increased little during the last three decades, although an increase undoubtedly has occurred in the frequency of diverticular disease. Frequencies of bowel diseases in South African Indian and colored (Eurafrican, Malay) populations are intermediate. Because the diseases are almost entirely of environmental causation (due to principally to changes in diet), prevalences almost certainly will increase in blacks, Indians and coloreds, as their way of life becomes further westernized.", "PMID": 447496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8090", "title": "Epidemiology of chronic intestinal disease in middle Africa.", "content": "Gastrointestinal disease in middle Africa is changing. The traditional patterns were high frequencies of parasitic and infectious diseases and sigmoid volvulus, and low incidences of colonic polyps, carcinoma of the colon, appendicitis, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The current disease patterns are compared with those for gastrointestinal disease in developed countries and etiological factors are discussed.", "contents": "Epidemiology of chronic intestinal disease in middle Africa. Gastrointestinal disease in middle Africa is changing. The traditional patterns were high frequencies of parasitic and infectious diseases and sigmoid volvulus, and low incidences of colonic polyps, carcinoma of the colon, appendicitis, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The current disease patterns are compared with those for gastrointestinal disease in developed countries and etiological factors are discussed.", "PMID": 447497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8091", "title": "Epidemiology of colon cancer in Scandinavia.", "content": "The occurrence of colon cancer in four Scandinavian (Nordic) countries--Finland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden--is described. In addition, a number of correlations relevant to the etiology of colon cancer are presented. The observable differences in the risk for colon cancer among the Nordic countries can largely be accounted for by socioeconomic factors.", "contents": "Epidemiology of colon cancer in Scandinavia. The occurrence of colon cancer in four Scandinavian (Nordic) countries--Finland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden--is described. In addition, a number of correlations relevant to the etiology of colon cancer are presented. The observable differences in the risk for colon cancer among the Nordic countries can largely be accounted for by socioeconomic factors.", "PMID": 447498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8092", "title": "Dietary factors and colorectal cancer in Scandinavia.", "content": "The food consumption, including type and quantity of dietary fiber, of male population samples in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Kuopio, Finland, with a fourfold difference in incidence of colon cancer was studied. A cohort of male brewery workers in Copenhagen, who consumed approximately four times more beer than did the population at large, was investigated for the development of colorectal cancer. The results suggest that there is a protective effect of dietary fiber, which is not related to mouth to anus transit time, against the development of colon cancer. Beer consumption is unrelated to the development of colorectal cancer.", "contents": "Dietary factors and colorectal cancer in Scandinavia. The food consumption, including type and quantity of dietary fiber, of male population samples in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Kuopio, Finland, with a fourfold difference in incidence of colon cancer was studied. A cohort of male brewery workers in Copenhagen, who consumed approximately four times more beer than did the population at large, was investigated for the development of colorectal cancer. The results suggest that there is a protective effect of dietary fiber, which is not related to mouth to anus transit time, against the development of colon cancer. Beer consumption is unrelated to the development of colorectal cancer.", "PMID": 447499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8093", "title": "Fecal bacteria in South African rural blacks and other population groups.", "content": "Quantitative studies were performed on fecal flora of three population groups consuming different diets. Twenty rural black South Africans and 22 Japanese, representing groups at low risk for carcinoma of the colon, were compared with 41 North Americans from a high-risk population. Specimens taken immediately after defecation were mixed and processed under anaerobic conditions. After the initial incubation, roll tubes were shipped to the United States for final identification. Bacterioides and bifidobacteria were present in lower numbers in South African subjects, as were Bacteroides uniformis (thought to be increased by conditions of fear and anger stress), compared with the other two groups. The number of B. vulgatus and B. distasonis and the \"Peptostreptococcus productus species complex,\" showed a positive correlation with the risk of colon cancer, while an inverse relationship was found with Eubacterium aerofaciens II, B. fragilis and Escherichia coli. The percentage of fecal isolates stimulated by bile was slightly higher in populations with a high fat intake and a high risk of cancer of the colon.", "contents": "Fecal bacteria in South African rural blacks and other population groups. Quantitative studies were performed on fecal flora of three population groups consuming different diets. Twenty rural black South Africans and 22 Japanese, representing groups at low risk for carcinoma of the colon, were compared with 41 North Americans from a high-risk population. Specimens taken immediately after defecation were mixed and processed under anaerobic conditions. After the initial incubation, roll tubes were shipped to the United States for final identification. Bacterioides and bifidobacteria were present in lower numbers in South African subjects, as were Bacteroides uniformis (thought to be increased by conditions of fear and anger stress), compared with the other two groups. The number of B. vulgatus and B. distasonis and the \"Peptostreptococcus productus species complex,\" showed a positive correlation with the risk of colon cancer, while an inverse relationship was found with Eubacterium aerofaciens II, B. fragilis and Escherichia coli. The percentage of fecal isolates stimulated by bile was slightly higher in populations with a high fat intake and a high risk of cancer of the colon.", "PMID": 447500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8094", "title": "Idiopathic subclinical enteropathy in southern Iran.", "content": "A study of 100 normal subjects from villages in southern Iran revealed that almost one third of this population had one (or more) absorptive or morphological abnormality of the small-bowel mucosa. The finding of morphologically normal bowel mucosa in stillborn fetuses and in newborns who died within two weeks of birth was consistent with the possibility that the abnormalities noted in the village population were postnatally acquired. Finally, speculations are offered regarding the relationship of idiopathic enteropathy and \"immunoproliferative small intestinal disease,\" which is often seen in the region.", "contents": "Idiopathic subclinical enteropathy in southern Iran. A study of 100 normal subjects from villages in southern Iran revealed that almost one third of this population had one (or more) absorptive or morphological abnormality of the small-bowel mucosa. The finding of morphologically normal bowel mucosa in stillborn fetuses and in newborns who died within two weeks of birth was consistent with the possibility that the abnormalities noted in the village population were postnatally acquired. Finally, speculations are offered regarding the relationship of idiopathic enteropathy and \"immunoproliferative small intestinal disease,\" which is often seen in the region.", "PMID": 447501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8095", "title": "Immune disturbances after severe enteritis during the first six months of life.", "content": "Infants with severe enteritis and associated prolonged thymic atrophy during the first six months of life showed persistent cell-mediated immune deficiency between the ages of three and five years. Experimental investigations show that early intrauterine and extrauterine stress may lead to permanent cell-mediated immune deficiency and an imbalanced immune response. Trends in disease frequency among different population groups may be influenced in part by the immunity of the host.", "contents": "Immune disturbances after severe enteritis during the first six months of life. Infants with severe enteritis and associated prolonged thymic atrophy during the first six months of life showed persistent cell-mediated immune deficiency between the ages of three and five years. Experimental investigations show that early intrauterine and extrauterine stress may lead to permanent cell-mediated immune deficiency and an imbalanced immune response. Trends in disease frequency among different population groups may be influenced in part by the immunity of the host.", "PMID": 447502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8096", "title": "Disseminated endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract and their possible influence on gastrointestinal disease.", "content": "The role of the disseminated endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract is reviewed. Some of these cells are scarce or absent in pernicious anemia, ulcerative colitis and Sheehan's syndrome, but are increased in number in peptic ulceration, chronic gastritis and celiac disease. A subgroup of the diffuse endocrine cells with both endocrine and exocrine functions, the so-called amphicrine cells, suggests that these cells originate from the entoderm. A study of the diffuse endocrine cells in the chronic intestinal diseases of the developing countries is suggested.", "contents": "Disseminated endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract and their possible influence on gastrointestinal disease. The role of the disseminated endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract is reviewed. Some of these cells are scarce or absent in pernicious anemia, ulcerative colitis and Sheehan's syndrome, but are increased in number in peptic ulceration, chronic gastritis and celiac disease. A subgroup of the diffuse endocrine cells with both endocrine and exocrine functions, the so-called amphicrine cells, suggests that these cells originate from the entoderm. A study of the diffuse endocrine cells in the chronic intestinal diseases of the developing countries is suggested.", "PMID": 447503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8097", "title": "Gastrointestinal lymphomas in Hong Kong Chinese.", "content": "Forty-six Chinese patients with primary gastrointestinal lymphoma were analyzed. The most common presentations were with abdominal pain, bleeding or a palpable mass. Only one case resembled the pattern of the so-called \"Mediterranean lymphoma.\" The most common primary sites were the stomach and the ileum. One case of colonic lymphoma was associated with schistosomiasis but was probably not etiologically related. The pattern of primary gastrointestinal lymphoma in Chinese corresponds in general to the pattern observed in western countries.", "contents": "Gastrointestinal lymphomas in Hong Kong Chinese. Forty-six Chinese patients with primary gastrointestinal lymphoma were analyzed. The most common presentations were with abdominal pain, bleeding or a palpable mass. Only one case resembled the pattern of the so-called \"Mediterranean lymphoma.\" The most common primary sites were the stomach and the ileum. One case of colonic lymphoma was associated with schistosomiasis but was probably not etiologically related. The pattern of primary gastrointestinal lymphoma in Chinese corresponds in general to the pattern observed in western countries.", "PMID": 447504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8098", "title": "Primary malignant lymphoma of the small intestine in Israel. Changing incidence with time.", "content": "One hundred and eighty-one cases of primary small intestinal lymphoma were diagnosed in residents of Israel--145 Jews and 36 Arabs--during a 16-year period, 1960--75. The male:female ratio was 1.8:1. Incidence rates were higher in children, the middle-aged and the elderly than in teenagers or young adults. Crude and age-adjusted incidence rates were higher in Arabs than in Jews. The pattern among the subgroups of the Jewish population varied with age. In young adults of both sexes the rates were much higher among Jews born in North Africa or Asia than among those born in Europe or Israel. In elderly males, however, the rates were almost twice as high in European-born Jews than among those born in North Africa or Asia. The mean annual incidence of primary small intestinal lymphoma fell from 4.8 per million during 1960--67 to 3.6 per million during 1968--75. This was due to a marked fall in the rates in children and young adults, whereas the rates in those aged 40 years or more rose with time. The pattern of the change with time suggests that environmental conditions are an important factor in the causation of primary intestinal lymphoma in young adults.", "contents": "Primary malignant lymphoma of the small intestine in Israel. Changing incidence with time. One hundred and eighty-one cases of primary small intestinal lymphoma were diagnosed in residents of Israel--145 Jews and 36 Arabs--during a 16-year period, 1960--75. The male:female ratio was 1.8:1. Incidence rates were higher in children, the middle-aged and the elderly than in teenagers or young adults. Crude and age-adjusted incidence rates were higher in Arabs than in Jews. The pattern among the subgroups of the Jewish population varied with age. In young adults of both sexes the rates were much higher among Jews born in North Africa or Asia than among those born in Europe or Israel. In elderly males, however, the rates were almost twice as high in European-born Jews than among those born in North Africa or Asia. The mean annual incidence of primary small intestinal lymphoma fell from 4.8 per million during 1960--67 to 3.6 per million during 1968--75. This was due to a marked fall in the rates in children and young adults, whereas the rates in those aged 40 years or more rose with time. The pattern of the change with time suggests that environmental conditions are an important factor in the causation of primary intestinal lymphoma in young adults.", "PMID": 447505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8099", "title": "Premalignant lesions of the stomach.", "content": "The histopathogenesis of the three major types of gastric carcinoma--intestinal, diffuse and indeterminate--is reviewed, considering normal and abnormal cell kinetics of the gastric mucosa. Intestinalization is a precursor of intestinal-type carcinoma and is related to environmental factors. Diffuse gastric carcinoma originates from dysplasia of the neck of the gland and is of nonenvironmental, probably genetic, origin.", "contents": "Premalignant lesions of the stomach. The histopathogenesis of the three major types of gastric carcinoma--intestinal, diffuse and indeterminate--is reviewed, considering normal and abnormal cell kinetics of the gastric mucosa. Intestinalization is a precursor of intestinal-type carcinoma and is related to environmental factors. Diffuse gastric carcinoma originates from dysplasia of the neck of the gland and is of nonenvironmental, probably genetic, origin.", "PMID": 447506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8100", "title": "Epidemiologic studies of gastric carcinoma: comparison between Iranians and two racial groups in the USA.", "content": "Gastric carcinoma in 226 cases from the two major racial groups--black and white--in Richmond, VA, USA, and in 75 cases from Shiraz, Iran, were studied. The age at onset and the ratio of intestinal to diffuse gastric carcinoma were compared with those for the high- and low-risk groups from Colombia. Poor socioeconomic conditions are directly related to intestinalization of the gastric mucosa and onset of carcinoma at a relatively young age. In Shiraz, the peak incidence of lymphoma, including intestinal lymphoma, is in the third decade of life; for esophageal carcinoma, it is in the fourth decade, and for gastric carcinoma, in the fifth. Comparison of this age distribution with induction times of neoplasia in immunosuppressed patients supports the suggestion of a common cocarcinogenic factor acting early in infancy. In Richmond, the ratio of intestinal to diffuse carcinoma for the black population is consistently higher than for the white. This difference has increased recently due to a more rapid decline in incidence of intestinal-type gastric carcinoma in the white population than in the black.", "contents": "Epidemiologic studies of gastric carcinoma: comparison between Iranians and two racial groups in the USA. Gastric carcinoma in 226 cases from the two major racial groups--black and white--in Richmond, VA, USA, and in 75 cases from Shiraz, Iran, were studied. The age at onset and the ratio of intestinal to diffuse gastric carcinoma were compared with those for the high- and low-risk groups from Colombia. Poor socioeconomic conditions are directly related to intestinalization of the gastric mucosa and onset of carcinoma at a relatively young age. In Shiraz, the peak incidence of lymphoma, including intestinal lymphoma, is in the third decade of life; for esophageal carcinoma, it is in the fourth decade, and for gastric carcinoma, in the fifth. Comparison of this age distribution with induction times of neoplasia in immunosuppressed patients supports the suggestion of a common cocarcinogenic factor acting early in infancy. In Richmond, the ratio of intestinal to diffuse carcinoma for the black population is consistently higher than for the white. This difference has increased recently due to a more rapid decline in incidence of intestinal-type gastric carcinoma in the white population than in the black.", "PMID": 447507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8101", "title": "Anemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronically hemodialyzed patients.", "content": "A role in the pathogenesis of the anemia of chronic renal failure has been attributed to secondary hyperparathyroidism. An amelioration of anemia after subtotal parathyroidectomy has been described. In the present study, no correlation was found between the severity of anemia and the level of serum parathormone in dialyzed patients. Furthermore, in seven patients, no improvement of the anemia was observed after parathyroidectomy.", "contents": "Anemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronically hemodialyzed patients. A role in the pathogenesis of the anemia of chronic renal failure has been attributed to secondary hyperparathyroidism. An amelioration of anemia after subtotal parathyroidectomy has been described. In the present study, no correlation was found between the severity of anemia and the level of serum parathormone in dialyzed patients. Furthermore, in seven patients, no improvement of the anemia was observed after parathyroidectomy.", "PMID": 447508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8102", "title": "Delivery at 40 years of age and over.", "content": "This is a retrospective review of 494 deliveries during a 10-year period in women aged 40 or more years. A decline in the incidence of deliveries in this age group was noted, from 2.1% in 1965 to 1.2% in 1974. An increased frequency of complications during pregnancy and delivery, a high rate of cesarean sections, and increased perinatal mortality rate, and more congenital malformations were recorded as compared with both a control group of randomly selected grand multiparas and a general obstetric population group of patients under the age of 40 years. The fetal outcome improved during the last years of the study; the perinatal mortality rate dropped from 10.4% in 1965 to 1.6% in 1973 to 0% in 1974. This achievement reflects the significant progress in obstetrics that has been made during these years.", "contents": "Delivery at 40 years of age and over. This is a retrospective review of 494 deliveries during a 10-year period in women aged 40 or more years. A decline in the incidence of deliveries in this age group was noted, from 2.1% in 1965 to 1.2% in 1974. An increased frequency of complications during pregnancy and delivery, a high rate of cesarean sections, and increased perinatal mortality rate, and more congenital malformations were recorded as compared with both a control group of randomly selected grand multiparas and a general obstetric population group of patients under the age of 40 years. The fetal outcome improved during the last years of the study; the perinatal mortality rate dropped from 10.4% in 1965 to 1.6% in 1973 to 0% in 1974. This achievement reflects the significant progress in obstetrics that has been made during these years.", "PMID": 447509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8103", "title": "Diagnostic value of cross-sectional echocardiography in left atrial myxoma.", "content": "Atrial myxoma is a rare condition that may have unusual clinical manifestations. Two patients with left atrial myxoma are described. One presented with paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea and no abnormal physical signs on clinical examination; the second presented with palpitations and physical findings suggestive of mild mixed mitral valve disease. Echocardiography and cross-sectional echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of atrial myxoma in both patients, and the tumors were successfully removed by operation. Cross-sectional echocardiography may obviate the need for cardiac catheterization in patients with left atrial tumors.", "contents": "Diagnostic value of cross-sectional echocardiography in left atrial myxoma. Atrial myxoma is a rare condition that may have unusual clinical manifestations. Two patients with left atrial myxoma are described. One presented with paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea and no abnormal physical signs on clinical examination; the second presented with palpitations and physical findings suggestive of mild mixed mitral valve disease. Echocardiography and cross-sectional echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of atrial myxoma in both patients, and the tumors were successfully removed by operation. Cross-sectional echocardiography may obviate the need for cardiac catheterization in patients with left atrial tumors.", "PMID": 447510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8104", "title": "Sheehan's syndrome with diabetes insipidus. A case study.", "content": "A case of a woman in whom Sheehan's syndrome and diabetes insipidus were found is presented. This association is very uncommon, but well-documented cases have been reported. Controversial opinions about the primary lesion still exist. To find out whether the pituitary gland responds to hypothalamic releasing factors, three kinds of test were performed. The failure of the pituitary to respond suggested pituitary damage. Because diabetes insipidus was present, presumably the hypothalamus was also damaged. A review of the literature and different opinions about the primary anatomic lesions in this syndrome are discussed.", "contents": "Sheehan's syndrome with diabetes insipidus. A case study. A case of a woman in whom Sheehan's syndrome and diabetes insipidus were found is presented. This association is very uncommon, but well-documented cases have been reported. Controversial opinions about the primary lesion still exist. To find out whether the pituitary gland responds to hypothalamic releasing factors, three kinds of test were performed. The failure of the pituitary to respond suggested pituitary damage. Because diabetes insipidus was present, presumably the hypothalamus was also damaged. A review of the literature and different opinions about the primary anatomic lesions in this syndrome are discussed.", "PMID": 447511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8105", "title": "Effect of dibromochloropropane on human testicular function.", "content": "Severe impairment of spermatogenesis was found in 18 (78%) of 23 workers after exposure to 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP). Azoospermia associated with elevated plasma follicle-stimulating hormone was diagnosed in 12 workers whose exposure time to DBCP varied from 100 to greater than 6,000 h. Oligospermia and normal plasma follicle-stimulating hormone were found in six employees with exposure times between 34 and 95 h. Plasma luteinizing hormone, testosterone and thyroxine were within the normal range. Testicular biopsy showed selective atrophy of the germinal epithelium, intact Sertoli cells and normal appearance of Leydig cells. The mechanism and potential reversibility of these testicular changes are still to be evaluated.", "contents": "Effect of dibromochloropropane on human testicular function. Severe impairment of spermatogenesis was found in 18 (78%) of 23 workers after exposure to 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP). Azoospermia associated with elevated plasma follicle-stimulating hormone was diagnosed in 12 workers whose exposure time to DBCP varied from 100 to greater than 6,000 h. Oligospermia and normal plasma follicle-stimulating hormone were found in six employees with exposure times between 34 and 95 h. Plasma luteinizing hormone, testosterone and thyroxine were within the normal range. Testicular biopsy showed selective atrophy of the germinal epithelium, intact Sertoli cells and normal appearance of Leydig cells. The mechanism and potential reversibility of these testicular changes are still to be evaluated.", "PMID": 447512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8106", "title": "Serum concentrations of isosorbide dinitrate produced by a sustained-release capsule.", "content": "The bioavailability of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) and the time course of its serum concentration produced by a standard 20-mg tablet and a sustained-release capsule were compared in six normal volunteers. Following administration of the tablet, serum ISDN concentrations reached a peak of 29 ng/ml at 0.5 h, declined monoexponentially with a t1/2 of 25.5 min, and disappeared after 2 to 3 h. Following the administration of the sustained-release capsule, serum ISDN concentrations reached a plateau of 4 ng/ml between 2 and 5 h, and declined slowly and nonlinearly up to and including the 10-h point. The total amount of ISDN absorbed was 1.32 times greater with the standard tablet; following the absorption of the capsule, there was truncation of the serum concentration curve due to ongoing absorption at and beyond 10 h.", "contents": "Serum concentrations of isosorbide dinitrate produced by a sustained-release capsule. The bioavailability of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) and the time course of its serum concentration produced by a standard 20-mg tablet and a sustained-release capsule were compared in six normal volunteers. Following administration of the tablet, serum ISDN concentrations reached a peak of 29 ng/ml at 0.5 h, declined monoexponentially with a t1/2 of 25.5 min, and disappeared after 2 to 3 h. Following the administration of the sustained-release capsule, serum ISDN concentrations reached a plateau of 4 ng/ml between 2 and 5 h, and declined slowly and nonlinearly up to and including the 10-h point. The total amount of ISDN absorbed was 1.32 times greater with the standard tablet; following the absorption of the capsule, there was truncation of the serum concentration curve due to ongoing absorption at and beyond 10 h.", "PMID": 447513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8107", "title": "Asplenia syndrome. Report of two cases.", "content": "Two babies with asplenia syndrome are described. Both presented with the severe cardiovascular anomalies found in this syndrome and had Howell-Jolly bodies in peripheral blood smears. The chest X-rays showed dextrocardia, decreased pulmonary circulation and a horizontal symmetrical liver, and were helpful in the clinical diagnosis. Additional findings at autopsy included a mobile cecum and bilateral trilobed lungs with bilateral eparterial bronchi.", "contents": "Asplenia syndrome. Report of two cases. Two babies with asplenia syndrome are described. Both presented with the severe cardiovascular anomalies found in this syndrome and had Howell-Jolly bodies in peripheral blood smears. The chest X-rays showed dextrocardia, decreased pulmonary circulation and a horizontal symmetrical liver, and were helpful in the clinical diagnosis. Additional findings at autopsy included a mobile cecum and bilateral trilobed lungs with bilateral eparterial bronchi.", "PMID": 447514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8108", "title": "Successful treatment of Cushing's disease with o,p'-DDD followed by pituitary irradiation in a 19-year-old male patient.", "content": "A 19-year-old male patient with Cushing's disease was treated for 15 months with a gastric-insoluble preparation of o,p'-DDD. The daily o,p'-DDD dose (range, 2 to 12 g) was adjusted periodically according to the urinary excretion of 11-hydroxycorticosteroids. Because of a rise in the plasma ACTH level from 135 to 300 pg/ml 12 months after the start of the o,p'-DDD therapy, the dose was reduced from 6 to 2 g/day and external pituitary irradiation (4,480 rads) was initiated. Insulin-induced hypoglycemia and stimulation tests with luteinizing-hormone-releasing factor and thyrotropin-releasing hormone, performed before initiation of o,p'-DDD and six months after pituitary irradiation, did not reveal any disturbance in the secretion of human growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone or prolactin. The clinical and laboratory signs of Cushing's disease disappeared gradually, and the patient tolerated the drug well, even at a dose of 12 g/day. The only abnormalities found during o,p'-DDD treatment were low serum thyroxine levels, which returned to normal after discontinuation of the drug, and a transient drop in thrombocyte count. At present, two years after the discontinuation of o,p'-DDD therapy and pituitary irradiation, the patient is symptom free and receives no medication.", "contents": "Successful treatment of Cushing's disease with o,p'-DDD followed by pituitary irradiation in a 19-year-old male patient. A 19-year-old male patient with Cushing's disease was treated for 15 months with a gastric-insoluble preparation of o,p'-DDD. The daily o,p'-DDD dose (range, 2 to 12 g) was adjusted periodically according to the urinary excretion of 11-hydroxycorticosteroids. Because of a rise in the plasma ACTH level from 135 to 300 pg/ml 12 months after the start of the o,p'-DDD therapy, the dose was reduced from 6 to 2 g/day and external pituitary irradiation (4,480 rads) was initiated. Insulin-induced hypoglycemia and stimulation tests with luteinizing-hormone-releasing factor and thyrotropin-releasing hormone, performed before initiation of o,p'-DDD and six months after pituitary irradiation, did not reveal any disturbance in the secretion of human growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone or prolactin. The clinical and laboratory signs of Cushing's disease disappeared gradually, and the patient tolerated the drug well, even at a dose of 12 g/day. The only abnormalities found during o,p'-DDD treatment were low serum thyroxine levels, which returned to normal after discontinuation of the drug, and a transient drop in thrombocyte count. At present, two years after the discontinuation of o,p'-DDD therapy and pituitary irradiation, the patient is symptom free and receives no medication.", "PMID": 447515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8109", "title": "[Histology of a plexiform neuroma with Vater-Pacini-lamellar-corpuscle-like structures].", "content": "From the finger of a 11 year old boy a tumor that had been present since birth was removed. Histological examination showed a great number of immature nerve bundles, and structures resembling Pacinian corpuscles. It could be shown that the organoid structures are a result of a proliferation of the so-called perineurial cells. These formations do not correspond with real tactile corpuscles, rather they can be considered as neoplastic structures of the perineurium.", "contents": "[Histology of a plexiform neuroma with Vater-Pacini-lamellar-corpuscle-like structures]. From the finger of a 11 year old boy a tumor that had been present since birth was removed. Histological examination showed a great number of immature nerve bundles, and structures resembling Pacinian corpuscles. It could be shown that the organoid structures are a result of a proliferation of the so-called perineurial cells. These formations do not correspond with real tactile corpuscles, rather they can be considered as neoplastic structures of the perineurium.", "PMID": 447528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8110", "title": "[Studies on monilethrix].", "content": "Monilethrix is a disorder of the hair manifested by fragile, beaded hair and baldness. The four children described below showed no regulary rhythm of node and internode formation. Light microscopy supported the hypothesis that periodic inhibition of keratin synthesis explains the production of the constriction. Scanning electron microscopy shows longitudinal ridging of the internodes in monilethrix and distinctive surface irregularity. Chromatography of urine for argininosuccinic acid do not support the theory that this hair abnormality is a metabolic defect.", "contents": "[Studies on monilethrix]. Monilethrix is a disorder of the hair manifested by fragile, beaded hair and baldness. The four children described below showed no regulary rhythm of node and internode formation. Light microscopy supported the hypothesis that periodic inhibition of keratin synthesis explains the production of the constriction. Scanning electron microscopy shows longitudinal ridging of the internodes in monilethrix and distinctive surface irregularity. Chromatography of urine for argininosuccinic acid do not support the theory that this hair abnormality is a metabolic defect.", "PMID": 447529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8111", "title": "[Clinical picture and x-ray therapy of actinic cheilitis].", "content": "97 patients suffering from cheilitis actinica treated with x-rays between 1959 and 1977 were followed up. The cure rate was 98%. Early diagnosis, the necessity of treatment and the problems of prophylaxis are emphasized. Good results can be obtained only by a total dosis of 4,000 R.", "contents": "[Clinical picture and x-ray therapy of actinic cheilitis]. 97 patients suffering from cheilitis actinica treated with x-rays between 1959 and 1977 were followed up. The cure rate was 98%. Early diagnosis, the necessity of treatment and the problems of prophylaxis are emphasized. Good results can be obtained only by a total dosis of 4,000 R.", "PMID": 447530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8112", "title": "[Pathological-anatomical teaching models in moulages. Manufacturing technic and history].", "content": "Wax moulages were used as pathological-anatomical teaching objects in medicine well into this century. On the occasion of the restauration of the moulage collection of the Department of Dermatology, University of Munich, the history of Munich wax artists is reviewed. The historical development of reproductions in wax in previous centuries is described. Several moulages showing various dermatological diseases are pictured. The technical details of moulage manufacture are mentioned.", "contents": "[Pathological-anatomical teaching models in moulages. Manufacturing technic and history]. Wax moulages were used as pathological-anatomical teaching objects in medicine well into this century. On the occasion of the restauration of the moulage collection of the Department of Dermatology, University of Munich, the history of Munich wax artists is reviewed. The historical development of reproductions in wax in previous centuries is described. Several moulages showing various dermatological diseases are pictured. The technical details of moulage manufacture are mentioned.", "PMID": 447531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8113", "title": "[Overall progeroid aspect of the Louis-Bar syndrome: pigmentary and keratotic phenomena].", "content": "A patient with ataxia-teleangiectasia is presented who developed numerous actinic keratoses and pigmented spots predominating the clinical picture with only few teleangiectasis. Premature ageing of the skin is perhaps the reason for the marginal dermatologic symptoms of this disease.", "contents": "[Overall progeroid aspect of the Louis-Bar syndrome: pigmentary and keratotic phenomena]. A patient with ataxia-teleangiectasia is presented who developed numerous actinic keratoses and pigmented spots predominating the clinical picture with only few teleangiectasis. Premature ageing of the skin is perhaps the reason for the marginal dermatologic symptoms of this disease.", "PMID": 447532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8114", "title": "Evaluation of diagnostic procedures for detection of mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine.", "content": "The complement-fixation test (CFT), a latex-agglutination test (LAT), and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae isolation procedures were compared with gross and microscopic lung evaluations for the routine diagnosis of mycoplasmal pneumonia (MP) of swine. The difficulty and variability of M hyopneumoniae isolation rendered this technique unacceptable. In market-weight swine, the finding of typical gross lesions was correlated with CFT results (P less than 0.005). The MP status of a herd could not be determined by use of these techniques in 4- to 9-week-old pigs. No technique could be used alone to establish a diagnosis. Gross and microscopic examination of all slaughter specimens, CFT, and clinical evaluation of the herd, used in combination, were the most useful means of determining the MP status of the herd.", "contents": "Evaluation of diagnostic procedures for detection of mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine. The complement-fixation test (CFT), a latex-agglutination test (LAT), and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae isolation procedures were compared with gross and microscopic lung evaluations for the routine diagnosis of mycoplasmal pneumonia (MP) of swine. The difficulty and variability of M hyopneumoniae isolation rendered this technique unacceptable. In market-weight swine, the finding of typical gross lesions was correlated with CFT results (P less than 0.005). The MP status of a herd could not be determined by use of these techniques in 4- to 9-week-old pigs. No technique could be used alone to establish a diagnosis. Gross and microscopic examination of all slaughter specimens, CFT, and clinical evaluation of the herd, used in combination, were the most useful means of determining the MP status of the herd.", "PMID": 447548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8115", "title": "Electromyographic and esophagomanometric findings in clinically normal dogs and in dogs with idiopathic megaesophagus.", "content": "Electromyography of 12 clinically normal dogs and 7 dogs with idiopathic megaesophagus revealed trains of positive sharp waves in the muscles of facial expression and in the lingual muscles of both groups. Positive waves are usually indicative of motor-unit disease; however, they are clinically insignificant in these muscles. Positive sharp waves were detected in the esophageal muscle of one dog with congenital megaesophagus. Esophageal electromyograms obtained in a dog with congenital megaesophagus and in 2 clinically normal dogs were normal. Resting caudal esophageal sphincter pressure was similar in both clinically normal dogs (mean, 22.3 mm of Hg; range, 15--37 mm of Hg) and in dogs with congenital or acquired idiopathic megaesophagus (mean, 29.6 mm of Hg; range, 20--50 mm of Hg).", "contents": "Electromyographic and esophagomanometric findings in clinically normal dogs and in dogs with idiopathic megaesophagus. Electromyography of 12 clinically normal dogs and 7 dogs with idiopathic megaesophagus revealed trains of positive sharp waves in the muscles of facial expression and in the lingual muscles of both groups. Positive waves are usually indicative of motor-unit disease; however, they are clinically insignificant in these muscles. Positive sharp waves were detected in the esophageal muscle of one dog with congenital megaesophagus. Esophageal electromyograms obtained in a dog with congenital megaesophagus and in 2 clinically normal dogs were normal. Resting caudal esophageal sphincter pressure was similar in both clinically normal dogs (mean, 22.3 mm of Hg; range, 15--37 mm of Hg) and in dogs with congenital or acquired idiopathic megaesophagus (mean, 29.6 mm of Hg; range, 20--50 mm of Hg).", "PMID": 447549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8116", "title": "Trigonal-colonic anastomosis: a urinary diversion procedure in dogs.", "content": "Trigonal-colonic anastomosis for diversion of urine into the colon was performed in 12 clinically normal dogs and in 10 incontinent dogs with diseases of the urinary bladder or urethra. Dogs were studied from 1 to 30 months after surgery. The surgical procedure was technically satisfactory. Fifteen of 22 dogs were studied with intravenous urography, and only 1 case of hydronephrosis was found. Pyelitis was a common histopathologic finding in both groups of dogs. Pyelonephritis developed in 30% of dogs, regardless of duration of anastomosis. Glomerular filtration rate was reduced in all dogs studied, but renal failure was infrequent. Values for blood urea nitrogen and serum inorganic phosphorus were elevated due to intestinal recycling of nitrogenous products and phosphate. Electrolyte imbalances were not a problem, but gastrointestinal disturbances developed in 3 of the 10 diseased dogs. Six of 10 diseased dogs survived from 9 months to more than 3 years. Trigonal-colonic anastomosis appears to be a satisfactory salvage procedure for incontinent dogs with diseases of the urinary bladder or urethra that do not respond to other forms of therapy.", "contents": "Trigonal-colonic anastomosis: a urinary diversion procedure in dogs. Trigonal-colonic anastomosis for diversion of urine into the colon was performed in 12 clinically normal dogs and in 10 incontinent dogs with diseases of the urinary bladder or urethra. Dogs were studied from 1 to 30 months after surgery. The surgical procedure was technically satisfactory. Fifteen of 22 dogs were studied with intravenous urography, and only 1 case of hydronephrosis was found. Pyelitis was a common histopathologic finding in both groups of dogs. Pyelonephritis developed in 30% of dogs, regardless of duration of anastomosis. Glomerular filtration rate was reduced in all dogs studied, but renal failure was infrequent. Values for blood urea nitrogen and serum inorganic phosphorus were elevated due to intestinal recycling of nitrogenous products and phosphate. Electrolyte imbalances were not a problem, but gastrointestinal disturbances developed in 3 of the 10 diseased dogs. Six of 10 diseased dogs survived from 9 months to more than 3 years. Trigonal-colonic anastomosis appears to be a satisfactory salvage procedure for incontinent dogs with diseases of the urinary bladder or urethra that do not respond to other forms of therapy.", "PMID": 447550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8117", "title": "Cranial thoracic diskospondylitis in two dogs.", "content": "Cranial thoracic diskospondylitis was diagnosed in 2 dogs. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the vertebral lesion of both dogs, from the urine of one dog, and from the blood of the other dog. In each case, curettage of the affected disk and contiguous vertebrae was accomplished via thoracotomy. Both dogs recovered following curettage and antibiotic therapy.", "contents": "Cranial thoracic diskospondylitis in two dogs. Cranial thoracic diskospondylitis was diagnosed in 2 dogs. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the vertebral lesion of both dogs, from the urine of one dog, and from the blood of the other dog. In each case, curettage of the affected disk and contiguous vertebrae was accomplished via thoracotomy. Both dogs recovered following curettage and antibiotic therapy.", "PMID": 447551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8118", "title": "Immunotherapy in ocular equine sarcoid.", "content": "A modified Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) preparation was used successfully in the treatment of 7 cases of equine sarcoid. The BCG preparation was injected into the lesions. The longest period of remission has been 24 months, and the shortest period of remission has been 9 months, with no signs of recurrence of the tumor in any of the presented cases.", "contents": "Immunotherapy in ocular equine sarcoid. A modified Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) preparation was used successfully in the treatment of 7 cases of equine sarcoid. The BCG preparation was injected into the lesions. The longest period of remission has been 24 months, and the shortest period of remission has been 9 months, with no signs of recurrence of the tumor in any of the presented cases.", "PMID": 447557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8119", "title": "Roles of predisposing factors and gonadal hormones in the buller syndrome of feedlot steers.", "content": "In a study of the role of predisposing factors and gonadal hormones in the buller syndrome, it was found that weather, amount of space available to each steer, and entry weights of the steers were not associated with increased occurrence of bulling; however, the type and timing of administration of the hormonal implant, the number of steers in a pen, and the manner in which the steers were grouped after arrival at the feedlot were found to influence the incidence of the syndrome. Serum concentrations of estradiol and testosterone in the buller steers were found to be lower during bulling than after a short period of isolation and apparent recovery from the syndrome. It was concluded that the occurrence of bulling is related to the use of hormonal implants and certain feedlot management procedures but that it is apparently not related to increased serum estrogen or testosterone concentrations.", "contents": "Roles of predisposing factors and gonadal hormones in the buller syndrome of feedlot steers. In a study of the role of predisposing factors and gonadal hormones in the buller syndrome, it was found that weather, amount of space available to each steer, and entry weights of the steers were not associated with increased occurrence of bulling; however, the type and timing of administration of the hormonal implant, the number of steers in a pen, and the manner in which the steers were grouped after arrival at the feedlot were found to influence the incidence of the syndrome. Serum concentrations of estradiol and testosterone in the buller steers were found to be lower during bulling than after a short period of isolation and apparent recovery from the syndrome. It was concluded that the occurrence of bulling is related to the use of hormonal implants and certain feedlot management procedures but that it is apparently not related to increased serum estrogen or testosterone concentrations.", "PMID": 447560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8120", "title": "Availability of oral carbohydrates to neonatal calves.", "content": "Four experiments were conducted to determine the availability of 3 carbohydrate sources given orally to 1- to 3-week-old clinically normal calves. In terms of effect on plasma glucose concentration, commercial fruit pectin was equivalent to glucose, corn syrup was less effective (P less than 0.05) than glucose, and sucrose was totally unavailable. The addition of 80 mM NaCl to a 10% glucose solution enhanced glucose absorption (P less than 0.01). Increasing the glucose concentration of a commercial product from 1% to 3% resulted in a significant (P less than 0.01) increase in plasma glucose concentration. Lactose availability from suckled fluids was greater (P less than 0.01) than that from fluids given by stomach tube.", "contents": "Availability of oral carbohydrates to neonatal calves. Four experiments were conducted to determine the availability of 3 carbohydrate sources given orally to 1- to 3-week-old clinically normal calves. In terms of effect on plasma glucose concentration, commercial fruit pectin was equivalent to glucose, corn syrup was less effective (P less than 0.05) than glucose, and sucrose was totally unavailable. The addition of 80 mM NaCl to a 10% glucose solution enhanced glucose absorption (P less than 0.01). Increasing the glucose concentration of a commercial product from 1% to 3% resulted in a significant (P less than 0.01) increase in plasma glucose concentration. Lactose availability from suckled fluids was greater (P less than 0.01) than that from fluids given by stomach tube.", "PMID": 447562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8121", "title": "Water deprivation test in the dog: maximal normal values.", "content": "Studies were undertaken to determine maximal urine osmolality and urine specific gravity following water deprivation for 20 dogs with normal renal function. In addition, the reliability of body weight, skin pliability, total plasma protein concentration, and packed cell volume as indices of negative water balance was assessed. Following water deprivation for periods sufficient to induce dehydration, the mean maximal urine osmolality was 2,289 mOsm/kg. The corresponding mean maximal urine specific gravity was 1.062 and ranged from 1.050 to 1.076. The ratio of mean maximal urine osmolality to mean serum osmolality at the time of peak urine concentration was 7.3. There was no detectable difference in urine concentration indices between males and females. Changes in skin pliability and packed cell volume proved unreliable as estimates of dehydration. Weight loss and increases in total plasma protein concentration proved to be more consistent indicators of hydration status. Abnormal increases in serum urea nitrogen and serum creatinine concentrations occurred rarely, even though some dogs had water withheld for periods of up to 96 hours.", "contents": "Water deprivation test in the dog: maximal normal values. Studies were undertaken to determine maximal urine osmolality and urine specific gravity following water deprivation for 20 dogs with normal renal function. In addition, the reliability of body weight, skin pliability, total plasma protein concentration, and packed cell volume as indices of negative water balance was assessed. Following water deprivation for periods sufficient to induce dehydration, the mean maximal urine osmolality was 2,289 mOsm/kg. The corresponding mean maximal urine specific gravity was 1.062 and ranged from 1.050 to 1.076. The ratio of mean maximal urine osmolality to mean serum osmolality at the time of peak urine concentration was 7.3. There was no detectable difference in urine concentration indices between males and females. Changes in skin pliability and packed cell volume proved unreliable as estimates of dehydration. Weight loss and increases in total plasma protein concentration proved to be more consistent indicators of hydration status. Abnormal increases in serum urea nitrogen and serum creatinine concentrations occurred rarely, even though some dogs had water withheld for periods of up to 96 hours.", "PMID": 447577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8122", "title": "Renal and ureteral duplication in a dog.", "content": "Duplication of a kidney and ureter in an 18-month-old male English Bulldog was demonstrated radiographically and was confirmed surgically. Urinary tract infection had been a problem for a year. Antimicrobial therapy resolved the clinical signs of urinary infection but did not eliminate bacteriuria.", "contents": "Renal and ureteral duplication in a dog. Duplication of a kidney and ureter in an 18-month-old male English Bulldog was demonstrated radiographically and was confirmed surgically. Urinary tract infection had been a problem for a year. Antimicrobial therapy resolved the clinical signs of urinary infection but did not eliminate bacteriuria.", "PMID": 447578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8123", "title": "Clinical evaluation of glomerular function: 24-hour creatinine clearance in dogs.", "content": "Methods of renal clearance to measure glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were compared with plasma creatinine concentration in clinically normal and partially nephrectomized dogs. Glomerular filtration rate was measured by use of a simple 24-hour creatinine clearance method in 36 normal female Beagles. Mean values were 57.6 +/- 9.3 ml/minute/m2 of body surface or 3.7 +/- 0.77 ml/minute/kg of body weight. Variability of this measurement was considerable, as determined in 4 dogs studied on 4 consecutive days. Glomerular filtration rate was measured in the same 36 dogs while they were under anesthesia, using short clearance periods to compare inulin and endogenous creatinine clearance. Mean values for inulin were 41.8 +/- 13.9 ml/minute/m2 of body surface. A close agreement with creatinine clearance was found (correlation coefficient, 0.998). Mean plasma creatinine concentration was 0.82 (range, 0.5--1.0) mg/100 ml. The value of GFR measurement compared with plasma creatinine concentration was determined in 10 dogs after 75% nephrectomy. Sixty days after partial nephrectomy, GFR was reduced to 61% of normal. Mean plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were 1.2 +/- 0.14 mg/100 ml and 20.4 +/- 7.1 mg/100 ml, respectively. Thus, the detection of reduced renal function may be uncertain when plasma creatinine or blood urea nitrogen are used as a means of evaluating renal function. It was concluded that a simple method of creatinine clearance is a sensitive and useful measurement to detect early or borderline reduction in glomerular function.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation of glomerular function: 24-hour creatinine clearance in dogs. Methods of renal clearance to measure glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were compared with plasma creatinine concentration in clinically normal and partially nephrectomized dogs. Glomerular filtration rate was measured by use of a simple 24-hour creatinine clearance method in 36 normal female Beagles. Mean values were 57.6 +/- 9.3 ml/minute/m2 of body surface or 3.7 +/- 0.77 ml/minute/kg of body weight. Variability of this measurement was considerable, as determined in 4 dogs studied on 4 consecutive days. Glomerular filtration rate was measured in the same 36 dogs while they were under anesthesia, using short clearance periods to compare inulin and endogenous creatinine clearance. Mean values for inulin were 41.8 +/- 13.9 ml/minute/m2 of body surface. A close agreement with creatinine clearance was found (correlation coefficient, 0.998). Mean plasma creatinine concentration was 0.82 (range, 0.5--1.0) mg/100 ml. The value of GFR measurement compared with plasma creatinine concentration was determined in 10 dogs after 75% nephrectomy. Sixty days after partial nephrectomy, GFR was reduced to 61% of normal. Mean plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were 1.2 +/- 0.14 mg/100 ml and 20.4 +/- 7.1 mg/100 ml, respectively. Thus, the detection of reduced renal function may be uncertain when plasma creatinine or blood urea nitrogen are used as a means of evaluating renal function. It was concluded that a simple method of creatinine clearance is a sensitive and useful measurement to detect early or borderline reduction in glomerular function.", "PMID": 447579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8124", "title": "Traumatic pericarditis in a dog.", "content": "Signs of congestive heart faiure in a dog were caused by pericardial effusion and fibrous thickening of the epicardium and pericardium. Partial pericardiectomy and removal of the probable cause (shotgun pellets) resulted in recovery.", "contents": "Traumatic pericarditis in a dog. Signs of congestive heart faiure in a dog were caused by pericardial effusion and fibrous thickening of the epicardium and pericardium. Partial pericardiectomy and removal of the probable cause (shotgun pellets) resulted in recovery.", "PMID": 447581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8125", "title": "Primary cutaneous coccidioidomycosis in a dog and a cat.", "content": "Primary cutaneous coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed in a dog and a cat examined because of lymphangitis and lymphadenitis associated with skin wounds. This benign and self-limiting form of disease was distinguished from the skin lesions associated with systemic coccidioidomycosis by means of historic, physical, and serologic criteria established in human medicine.", "contents": "Primary cutaneous coccidioidomycosis in a dog and a cat. Primary cutaneous coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed in a dog and a cat examined because of lymphangitis and lymphadenitis associated with skin wounds. This benign and self-limiting form of disease was distinguished from the skin lesions associated with systemic coccidioidomycosis by means of historic, physical, and serologic criteria established in human medicine.", "PMID": 447582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8126", "title": "Feline pyothorax caused by a Borrelia-like organism and Corynebacterium pyogenes.", "content": "A 2-year-old, neutered, male cat was euthanatized because of difficult repiration and inability to rise. Necropsy revealed pyothorax. Corynebacterium pyogenes was grown from the purulent thoracic exudate. A Borrelia-like microorganism was demonstrated in the exudate, using phase-contrast microscopy.", "contents": "Feline pyothorax caused by a Borrelia-like organism and Corynebacterium pyogenes. A 2-year-old, neutered, male cat was euthanatized because of difficult repiration and inability to rise. Necropsy revealed pyothorax. Corynebacterium pyogenes was grown from the purulent thoracic exudate. A Borrelia-like microorganism was demonstrated in the exudate, using phase-contrast microscopy.", "PMID": 447585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8127", "title": "Isolation and concentration of organophosphorus pesticides from drinking water at the ng/L level, using macroreticular resin.", "content": "A screening method has been developed for determining organophosphorus pesticides at ng/L levels in drinking water. Sixteen organophosphorus pesticides, diazinon, diazinon-oxon, dimethoate, ronnel, beta-phosphamidon, methyl parathion, ethyl parathion, malathion, chlorpyrifos, fenitrothion, ruelene, methidathion, ethion, EPN, phosalone, and phosmet, were extracted by Amberlite XAD-2 resin from 100 and 200 L drinking water previously spiked with these pesticides. The pesticides were eluted from the XAD-2 resin with acetone-hexane (15+85). The concentrated extract was analyzed by gas chromatography using a nitrogen-phosphorus selective detector and by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using selected ion monitoring. Recoveries at the 10 and 100 ng/L spiking levels were greater than 90%, except recoveries for dimethoate and phosphamidon were 37 and 42%, respectively. The analysis of 300 L Ottawa tap water showed no detectable amounts (less than 1 ng/L) of any of the 16 organophosphorus pesticides.", "contents": "Isolation and concentration of organophosphorus pesticides from drinking water at the ng/L level, using macroreticular resin. A screening method has been developed for determining organophosphorus pesticides at ng/L levels in drinking water. Sixteen organophosphorus pesticides, diazinon, diazinon-oxon, dimethoate, ronnel, beta-phosphamidon, methyl parathion, ethyl parathion, malathion, chlorpyrifos, fenitrothion, ruelene, methidathion, ethion, EPN, phosalone, and phosmet, were extracted by Amberlite XAD-2 resin from 100 and 200 L drinking water previously spiked with these pesticides. The pesticides were eluted from the XAD-2 resin with acetone-hexane (15+85). The concentrated extract was analyzed by gas chromatography using a nitrogen-phosphorus selective detector and by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using selected ion monitoring. Recoveries at the 10 and 100 ng/L spiking levels were greater than 90%, except recoveries for dimethoate and phosphamidon were 37 and 42%, respectively. The analysis of 300 L Ottawa tap water showed no detectable amounts (less than 1 ng/L) of any of the 16 organophosphorus pesticides.", "PMID": 447594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8128", "title": "Gas-liquid chromatographic-mass fragmentographic determination of low levels of diethylcarbonate in beverages.", "content": "Sodium chloride and ethanol (omitted for samples with greater than 10% alcohol) are added to the beverage sample and the sample is allowed to equilibrate in a 30 degrees C water bath. An aliquot of the headspace is injected into a gas chromatography containing a column packed with 0.2% Carbowax 1500 on 80--100 mesh Carbopack C. During the elution of diethylcarbonate (DEC), an impurity that is present in diethylpyrocarbonate, the column effluent is vented to a mass spectrometer with a multiple ion detection system and operated in the electron impact mode. The ions at m/e 63 and 91 are monitored. Lemonade, fruit drinks, wine, and beer samples (138 total) were analyzed for DEC. Sixteen samples had greater than 30 ppb DEC. Eight analyses of a lemonade sample gave a mean of 88 ppb with a coefficient of variation of 11%.", "contents": "Gas-liquid chromatographic-mass fragmentographic determination of low levels of diethylcarbonate in beverages. Sodium chloride and ethanol (omitted for samples with greater than 10% alcohol) are added to the beverage sample and the sample is allowed to equilibrate in a 30 degrees C water bath. An aliquot of the headspace is injected into a gas chromatography containing a column packed with 0.2% Carbowax 1500 on 80--100 mesh Carbopack C. During the elution of diethylcarbonate (DEC), an impurity that is present in diethylpyrocarbonate, the column effluent is vented to a mass spectrometer with a multiple ion detection system and operated in the electron impact mode. The ions at m/e 63 and 91 are monitored. Lemonade, fruit drinks, wine, and beer samples (138 total) were analyzed for DEC. Sixteen samples had greater than 30 ppb DEC. Eight analyses of a lemonade sample gave a mean of 88 ppb with a coefficient of variation of 11%.", "PMID": 447595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8129", "title": "High pressure liquid chromatographic determination of furazolidone in turkey tissue.", "content": "A high pressure liquid chromatographic method for determining furazolidone in turkey tissue has been developed. Tissues are ground with methanol and centrifuged. For lower levels of furazolidone, 2--40 ppb, the supernate is evaporated to dryness and redissolved before it is injected onto the liquid chromatographic column. Using a reverse phase column and an ultraviolet absorption detector set at 365 nm, the assay is linear over the concentration range 2--400 ppb with a coefficient of variation of less than 4%. Average recovery from fortified tissues was 96% with a coefficient of variation of 6% at the 50--400 ppb level, and 105% with a coefficient of variation of 11% at the 2--40 ppb level.", "contents": "High pressure liquid chromatographic determination of furazolidone in turkey tissue. A high pressure liquid chromatographic method for determining furazolidone in turkey tissue has been developed. Tissues are ground with methanol and centrifuged. For lower levels of furazolidone, 2--40 ppb, the supernate is evaporated to dryness and redissolved before it is injected onto the liquid chromatographic column. Using a reverse phase column and an ultraviolet absorption detector set at 365 nm, the assay is linear over the concentration range 2--400 ppb with a coefficient of variation of less than 4%. Average recovery from fortified tissues was 96% with a coefficient of variation of 6% at the 50--400 ppb level, and 105% with a coefficient of variation of 11% at the 2--40 ppb level.", "PMID": 447596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8130", "title": "Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of individual sugars in confectionery products.", "content": "A gas-liquid chromatographic (GLC) procedure is presented for the separation and quantitative determination of sucrose, lactose, maltose, and glucose in commercial confectionery products. By converting reducing sugars to oximes and then forming trimethylsilyl ethers of these compounds and separating them on a 6 ft X 4 mm id glass column packed with 2% OV-17 on 100--120 mesh Supelcoport, single peaks were obtained for each of the sugars. Results for sugars present in samples at levels of 5% or more are within 2.8%, on the average, of results obtained by polarization measurements. The data also compare favorably with others in the literature on similar products analyzed by other GLC procedures that do not involve oxime formation.", "contents": "Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of individual sugars in confectionery products. A gas-liquid chromatographic (GLC) procedure is presented for the separation and quantitative determination of sucrose, lactose, maltose, and glucose in commercial confectionery products. By converting reducing sugars to oximes and then forming trimethylsilyl ethers of these compounds and separating them on a 6 ft X 4 mm id glass column packed with 2% OV-17 on 100--120 mesh Supelcoport, single peaks were obtained for each of the sugars. Results for sugars present in samples at levels of 5% or more are within 2.8%, on the average, of results obtained by polarization measurements. The data also compare favorably with others in the literature on similar products analyzed by other GLC procedures that do not involve oxime formation.", "PMID": 447597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8131", "title": "Spectrofluorometric determination and thin layer chromatographic identification of tyramine in wine.", "content": "A method is described for determining tyramine in wine by sand column extraction in an alkaline medium with anhydrous sodium sulfate. Tyramine is identified and quantitated by spectrofluorometry after the final extract is reacted with alpha-nitroso-beta-naphthol; identity is confirmed by thin layer chromatography. The average recovery was 98.93%. The method is applied to samples of 3 different wines obtained throughout the vinification process. Tyramine, which was not present in the must, appears in considerable quantities 15 days after the vinification process has begun.", "contents": "Spectrofluorometric determination and thin layer chromatographic identification of tyramine in wine. A method is described for determining tyramine in wine by sand column extraction in an alkaline medium with anhydrous sodium sulfate. Tyramine is identified and quantitated by spectrofluorometry after the final extract is reacted with alpha-nitroso-beta-naphthol; identity is confirmed by thin layer chromatography. The average recovery was 98.93%. The method is applied to samples of 3 different wines obtained throughout the vinification process. Tyramine, which was not present in the must, appears in considerable quantities 15 days after the vinification process has begun.", "PMID": 447598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8132", "title": "Flotation technique for quantitative determination of mite populations in powdered and compacted foodstuffs.", "content": "Samples are preheated in 25% aqueous ethanol at 65 degrees C for 5 min. A specially designed flotation flask and solvent mixture of kerosene-tetralin (1+1) is used to form an interface with 25% aqueous ethanol. Mites, insects, and insect fragments are separated from vegetative material by an overflow method. Trials incorporating a known number of mites in samples of pigmeal indicate that at an infestation level of 1000 mites/kg the method always recovered 70% of the population and at 2000 mites/kg, 75%. The method permits collection of mite specimens for microscopic examination as well as allowing differentiation between live and long-dead insects. It does not use highly volatile solvents or corrosive acids. The apparatus has been successfully tested for quantitatively determining mite populations in flour, dried skimmed milk, animal feedstuffs, soya meal, wheat, rape seed, dates, and house dust. It has also been used to estimate insect contamination in packaged dates.", "contents": "Flotation technique for quantitative determination of mite populations in powdered and compacted foodstuffs. Samples are preheated in 25% aqueous ethanol at 65 degrees C for 5 min. A specially designed flotation flask and solvent mixture of kerosene-tetralin (1+1) is used to form an interface with 25% aqueous ethanol. Mites, insects, and insect fragments are separated from vegetative material by an overflow method. Trials incorporating a known number of mites in samples of pigmeal indicate that at an infestation level of 1000 mites/kg the method always recovered 70% of the population and at 2000 mites/kg, 75%. The method permits collection of mite specimens for microscopic examination as well as allowing differentiation between live and long-dead insects. It does not use highly volatile solvents or corrosive acids. The apparatus has been successfully tested for quantitatively determining mite populations in flour, dried skimmed milk, animal feedstuffs, soya meal, wheat, rape seed, dates, and house dust. It has also been used to estimate insect contamination in packaged dates.", "PMID": 447599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8133", "title": "Application of gel permeation chromatography and nonaqueous reverse phase chromatography to high pressure liquid chromatographic determination of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene in oil and margarine.", "content": "A high pressure liquid chromatographic method was developed using high pressure gel permeation chromatography (HP-GPC) and high pressure reverse phase chromatography (RP-HPLC) for quantitation of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene. HP-GPC was used for fractionation of vitamin A active compounds from oil preliminary to quantitation on nonaqueous RP-HPLC. HP-GPC fractionation was completed on oil and margarine dissolved in methylene chloride by 2 elution passes through 2 muStyragel (100 angstrom) columns connected in series with methylene chloride as the mobile phase. RP-HPLC separation of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene was achieved on muBondapak C18 (10 micrometers), using methylene chloride-acetonitrile (30+70). Based on 10 repetitive analyses, recoveries of added beta-carotene and retinyl palmitate from vegetable oils were 98.6+/-2.9 and 95.2+/-2.6%, respectively. The coefficients of variation were 2.9% for beta-carotene and 2.7% for retinyl palmitate. The determination of vitamin A activity in 7 margarine brands with label claims of 10% U.S.RDA/serving revealed that all but one of the margarines contained at least 94% of the label claim. Vitamin A activity in the margarines ranged from 90.6 to 110.8% of the label declaration.", "contents": "Application of gel permeation chromatography and nonaqueous reverse phase chromatography to high pressure liquid chromatographic determination of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene in oil and margarine. A high pressure liquid chromatographic method was developed using high pressure gel permeation chromatography (HP-GPC) and high pressure reverse phase chromatography (RP-HPLC) for quantitation of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene. HP-GPC was used for fractionation of vitamin A active compounds from oil preliminary to quantitation on nonaqueous RP-HPLC. HP-GPC fractionation was completed on oil and margarine dissolved in methylene chloride by 2 elution passes through 2 muStyragel (100 angstrom) columns connected in series with methylene chloride as the mobile phase. RP-HPLC separation of retinyl palmitate and beta-carotene was achieved on muBondapak C18 (10 micrometers), using methylene chloride-acetonitrile (30+70). Based on 10 repetitive analyses, recoveries of added beta-carotene and retinyl palmitate from vegetable oils were 98.6+/-2.9 and 95.2+/-2.6%, respectively. The coefficients of variation were 2.9% for beta-carotene and 2.7% for retinyl palmitate. The determination of vitamin A activity in 7 margarine brands with label claims of 10% U.S.RDA/serving revealed that all but one of the margarines contained at least 94% of the label claim. Vitamin A activity in the margarines ranged from 90.6 to 110.8% of the label declaration.", "PMID": 447600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8134", "title": "Determination of crude protein in animal feeds, using block digestion followed by steam distillation: collaborative study.", "content": "A method consisting of digesting animal feeds in a block digestor and determining ammonia by steam distillation followed by titration has been evaluated and compared with the official final action Kjeldahl method, 7.016. Fifteen laboratories analyzed 5 feed samples and lysine monohydrochloride. Statistical analysis showed that results from the 2 methods were comparable. The distillation technique has been adopted as official first action as an alternative technique for ammonia determination from the digest of the official final action block digestor method, 7.B11.", "contents": "Determination of crude protein in animal feeds, using block digestion followed by steam distillation: collaborative study. A method consisting of digesting animal feeds in a block digestor and determining ammonia by steam distillation followed by titration has been evaluated and compared with the official final action Kjeldahl method, 7.016. Fifteen laboratories analyzed 5 feed samples and lysine monohydrochloride. Statistical analysis showed that results from the 2 methods were comparable. The distillation technique has been adopted as official first action as an alternative technique for ammonia determination from the digest of the official final action block digestor method, 7.B11.", "PMID": 447601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8135", "title": "Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of morphine, heroin, and cocaine.", "content": "Morphine, heroin, and cocaine are quantitatively determined with the same gas-liquid chromatographic system. The compounds are separated on a 6 ft X 2 mm id glass column packed with a 1:1 mixture of 5% SE-30 on 80--100 mesh Chromosorb W and 3% OV-17 on 80--100 mesh Varaport 30. The column is temperature-programmed. Flame ionization detector responses are measured with a computer-based data system. Heroin and cocaine are chromatographed directly; morphine is derivatized first. The procedure was evaluated with previously analyzed commercial and forensic samples. Accuracy and precision were 5 and 3%, respectively.", "contents": "Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of morphine, heroin, and cocaine. Morphine, heroin, and cocaine are quantitatively determined with the same gas-liquid chromatographic system. The compounds are separated on a 6 ft X 2 mm id glass column packed with a 1:1 mixture of 5% SE-30 on 80--100 mesh Chromosorb W and 3% OV-17 on 80--100 mesh Varaport 30. The column is temperature-programmed. Flame ionization detector responses are measured with a computer-based data system. Heroin and cocaine are chromatographed directly; morphine is derivatized first. The procedure was evaluated with previously analyzed commercial and forensic samples. Accuracy and precision were 5 and 3%, respectively.", "PMID": 447602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8136", "title": "Screening test for amygdalin in tablets, solutions, powders, and seeds.", "content": "A rapid screening test for detecting amygdalin in tablets, solutions, powders, and seeds, based on the liberation of both hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde as a result of enzymatic decomposition, is described. The procedure can be easily performed outside the laboratory with small amounts of sample; the samples require no special preparation or pretreatment. The test can be performed in less than or equal to 60 min and is sensitive to at least 0.2 mg amygdalin. Vicianin, lucumin, prunasin, and sambunigrin would also given positive tests, but instrumental analysis can be used to distinguish amygdalin from these compounds.", "contents": "Screening test for amygdalin in tablets, solutions, powders, and seeds. A rapid screening test for detecting amygdalin in tablets, solutions, powders, and seeds, based on the liberation of both hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde as a result of enzymatic decomposition, is described. The procedure can be easily performed outside the laboratory with small amounts of sample; the samples require no special preparation or pretreatment. The test can be performed in less than or equal to 60 min and is sensitive to at least 0.2 mg amygdalin. Vicianin, lucumin, prunasin, and sambunigrin would also given positive tests, but instrumental analysis can be used to distinguish amygdalin from these compounds.", "PMID": 447603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8137", "title": "High pressure liquid chromatographic determination of the five major alkaloids in Papaver somniferum L. and thebaine in Papaver bracteatum Lindl. capsular tissue.", "content": "A high pressure liquid chromatographic isocratic procedure is described for determining and quantitating the 5 major alkaloids narcotine, papaverine, thebaine, codeine, and morphine in Papaver somniferum L. and thebaine in Papaver bracteatum Lindl. Other papaveraceous alkaloids, including salutaridine, oripavine, laudanosine, isothebaine, cryptopine, alpinigenine, narceine, protopine, and gnoscopine, were also quantitated. The values for morphine, codeine, and thebaine in P. somniferum were in agreement within 5--9% with values obtained by the United Nations Narcotics Laboratory by other methods. In contrast to previously reported procedures, the advantage of this method is that no precolumn or other purification other than solvent extraction of the capsular tissue is necessary. Isocratic chromatography alone on a single column resolved the 5 major alkaloids.", "contents": "High pressure liquid chromatographic determination of the five major alkaloids in Papaver somniferum L. and thebaine in Papaver bracteatum Lindl. capsular tissue. A high pressure liquid chromatographic isocratic procedure is described for determining and quantitating the 5 major alkaloids narcotine, papaverine, thebaine, codeine, and morphine in Papaver somniferum L. and thebaine in Papaver bracteatum Lindl. Other papaveraceous alkaloids, including salutaridine, oripavine, laudanosine, isothebaine, cryptopine, alpinigenine, narceine, protopine, and gnoscopine, were also quantitated. The values for morphine, codeine, and thebaine in P. somniferum were in agreement within 5--9% with values obtained by the United Nations Narcotics Laboratory by other methods. In contrast to previously reported procedures, the advantage of this method is that no precolumn or other purification other than solvent extraction of the capsular tissue is necessary. Isocratic chromatography alone on a single column resolved the 5 major alkaloids.", "PMID": 447604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8138", "title": "Determination of vitamin B1 in pharmaceutical preparations using a lead ion selective electrode and atomic absorption spectroscopy.", "content": "Simple, rapid, and accurate methods have been developed for determining vitamin B1 in pharmaceutical preparations without prior separation of the vitamin. The methods are based on the desulfurization reaction with potassium plumbite and measurement of the unreacted lead(II) ions at 217 nm using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), or by titration with EDTA at pH 4.5 with the lead ion selective electrode and Gran's plot. The results compare favorably with those obtained using the USP fluorometric method. Recoveries of pure vitamin B1 averaged 99.1%, with a standard deviation of 0.8%, and 99.0%, with a standard deviation of 0.7%, for the AAS and ion selective electrode procedures, respectively.", "contents": "Determination of vitamin B1 in pharmaceutical preparations using a lead ion selective electrode and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Simple, rapid, and accurate methods have been developed for determining vitamin B1 in pharmaceutical preparations without prior separation of the vitamin. The methods are based on the desulfurization reaction with potassium plumbite and measurement of the unreacted lead(II) ions at 217 nm using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), or by titration with EDTA at pH 4.5 with the lead ion selective electrode and Gran's plot. The results compare favorably with those obtained using the USP fluorometric method. Recoveries of pure vitamin B1 averaged 99.1%, with a standard deviation of 0.8%, and 99.0%, with a standard deviation of 0.7%, for the AAS and ion selective electrode procedures, respectively.", "PMID": 447605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8139", "title": "Relative productivity of five selective plating agars for the recovery of Salmonella from selected food types.", "content": "During a 3-year period, the relative productivity of brilliant green (BG), bismuth sulfite (BS), Salmonella-Shigella (SS), Hektoen enteric (HE), and xylose lysine, desoxycholate (XLD) agars for recovering Salmonella from 9 food types was determined. Following pre-enrichment, selective enrichment of food samples in tetrathionate broth followed by streaking to BS agar was the single most productive selective enrichment broth-agar combination for recovery of Salmonella in 5 of these food types. A study of the performance of these 5 agars used individually and in various combinations, showed that none of the 5 agars used individually nor any of the possible paired combinations of these agars could be used to satisfactorily detect Salmonella in the 9 food types. The use of all 5 agars was not necessary because one combination of 4 agars (BG, BS, HE, and XLD) recoverd 100% of the Salmonella isolates, as compared with the number of Salmonella isolates recovered by the 5-agar combination, in each food category. This particular 4-agar combination, along with two 3-agar combinations (BG, BS, and XLD agars, and BS, HE, and XLD agars), were each able to recover more Salmonella isolates, than the combination of BG, BS, and SS agars, the combination currently recommended by the AOAC. Finally, the relative costs of using these agars, singly and in various combinations, were determined.", "contents": "Relative productivity of five selective plating agars for the recovery of Salmonella from selected food types. During a 3-year period, the relative productivity of brilliant green (BG), bismuth sulfite (BS), Salmonella-Shigella (SS), Hektoen enteric (HE), and xylose lysine, desoxycholate (XLD) agars for recovering Salmonella from 9 food types was determined. Following pre-enrichment, selective enrichment of food samples in tetrathionate broth followed by streaking to BS agar was the single most productive selective enrichment broth-agar combination for recovery of Salmonella in 5 of these food types. A study of the performance of these 5 agars used individually and in various combinations, showed that none of the 5 agars used individually nor any of the possible paired combinations of these agars could be used to satisfactorily detect Salmonella in the 9 food types. The use of all 5 agars was not necessary because one combination of 4 agars (BG, BS, HE, and XLD) recoverd 100% of the Salmonella isolates, as compared with the number of Salmonella isolates recovered by the 5-agar combination, in each food category. This particular 4-agar combination, along with two 3-agar combinations (BG, BS, and XLD agars, and BS, HE, and XLD agars), were each able to recover more Salmonella isolates, than the combination of BG, BS, and SS agars, the combination currently recommended by the AOAC. Finally, the relative costs of using these agars, singly and in various combinations, were determined.", "PMID": 447606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8140", "title": "The need to be held: state or trait variable.", "content": "The need to be held has been observed to be related to various moods and personality dimensions. It is unclear, however, whether this need functions as a state or trait variable. Data were collected from 85 pregnant subjects at 4 months, 9 months, and 6 weeks postpartum. Measures of the need to be held, neuroticism, relationship with parents, self-concept and maternal attachment were used to determine whether the need to be held is a trait or state variable, as well as to explore the etiology of the need to be held. Data were analyzed by a trend analysis of repeated measures and analysis of variance. Results showed that the need to be held is a trait variable in that it did not change throughout pregnancy and is related to the predisposition of depression. The etiology of the need to be held remains open for investigation.", "contents": "The need to be held: state or trait variable. The need to be held has been observed to be related to various moods and personality dimensions. It is unclear, however, whether this need functions as a state or trait variable. Data were collected from 85 pregnant subjects at 4 months, 9 months, and 6 weeks postpartum. Measures of the need to be held, neuroticism, relationship with parents, self-concept and maternal attachment were used to determine whether the need to be held is a trait or state variable, as well as to explore the etiology of the need to be held. Data were analyzed by a trend analysis of repeated measures and analysis of variance. Results showed that the need to be held is a trait variable in that it did not change throughout pregnancy and is related to the predisposition of depression. The etiology of the need to be held remains open for investigation.", "PMID": 447608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8141", "title": "The relationship between stressful life events and hospitalized adolescent psychiatric patients.", "content": "The nature and magnitude of psychosocial stresses preceding adolescent hospitalization were investigated. The findings indicate that the adolescent psychiatric patients have a greater magnitude of stressful life events when compared with general hospitalized adolescents and normal adolescents. The difference is found to be largely quantitative rather than qualitative. The results of the present study utilizing a combined version of Coddington's Junior High School and Senior High School Social Readjustment Rating Questionnaires is similar to previous findings on adult populations using the Social Readjustment Rating Scale.", "contents": "The relationship between stressful life events and hospitalized adolescent psychiatric patients. The nature and magnitude of psychosocial stresses preceding adolescent hospitalization were investigated. The findings indicate that the adolescent psychiatric patients have a greater magnitude of stressful life events when compared with general hospitalized adolescents and normal adolescents. The difference is found to be largely quantitative rather than qualitative. The results of the present study utilizing a combined version of Coddington's Junior High School and Senior High School Social Readjustment Rating Questionnaires is similar to previous findings on adult populations using the Social Readjustment Rating Scale.", "PMID": 447609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8142", "title": "Appearance of new symptoms in hospitalized patients: an instance of institutional iatrogenesis?", "content": "Data from the admission and termination forms of 100 consecutively discharged psychiatric inpatients were analyzed to determine the changes that occurred in the symptom profile of each patient during hospitalization. In general, patients entered the hospitalization. In general, patients entered the hospital with severe, chronic symptoms some of which were relieved and some of which remained unchanged. A number of symptoms, however, were reported present on the termination forms that had not been noted at admission. The results of this study offer evidence that a possible effect of the therapeutic process is the occasional appearance of new symptoms in some patients.", "contents": "Appearance of new symptoms in hospitalized patients: an instance of institutional iatrogenesis? Data from the admission and termination forms of 100 consecutively discharged psychiatric inpatients were analyzed to determine the changes that occurred in the symptom profile of each patient during hospitalization. In general, patients entered the hospitalization. In general, patients entered the hospital with severe, chronic symptoms some of which were relieved and some of which remained unchanged. A number of symptoms, however, were reported present on the termination forms that had not been noted at admission. The results of this study offer evidence that a possible effect of the therapeutic process is the occasional appearance of new symptoms in some patients.", "PMID": 447610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8143", "title": "Manic psychosis in a patient with multiple metastatic brain tumors.", "content": "A 45-year-old man, with neither previous psychiatric dysfunction nor a family history of manic-depressive illness, developed a manic psychosis coincident with the growth of 4 metastatic tumors in the right cerebral hemisphere. The psychosis responded well to treatment with lithium even though the metastatic lesions could not by eradicated with surgery or radiation.", "contents": "Manic psychosis in a patient with multiple metastatic brain tumors. A 45-year-old man, with neither previous psychiatric dysfunction nor a family history of manic-depressive illness, developed a manic psychosis coincident with the growth of 4 metastatic tumors in the right cerebral hemisphere. The psychosis responded well to treatment with lithium even though the metastatic lesions could not by eradicated with surgery or radiation.", "PMID": 447611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8144", "title": "The interaction of a tyrosyl residue and carboxyl groups in the specific interaction between Streptomyces subtilisin inhibitor and subtilisin BPN'. A chemical modification study.", "content": "An ultraviolet absorption difference spectrum that is typical of a change in ionization state (pKa 9.7 leads to greater than 11.5) of a tyrosyl residue has been observed on the binding between Streptomyces subtilisin inhibitor (SSI) and subtilisin BPN' [EC 3.4.21.14] at alkaline pH, ionic strength 0.1 M, at 25 degrees C (Inouye, K., Tonomura, B., and Hiromi, K., submitted). When the complex of SSI and subtilisin BPN' is formed at an ionic strength of 0.6 M and pH 9.70, the characteristic features of the protonation of a tyrosyl residue in the difference spectrum are diminished. These results suggest that the pKa-shift of a tyrosyl residue observed at alkaline pH and lower ionic strength results from an electrostatic interaction. Nitration of tyrosyl residues of SSI and of subtilisin BPN' was performed with tetranitromethane (TNM). By measurements of the difference spectra observed on the binding of the tyrosyl-residue-nitrated SSI and the native subtilisin BPN', and on the binding of the native SSI and the tyrosyl-residue-nitrated subtilisin BPN' and alkaline pH, the tyrosyl residue in question was shown to be one out of the five tyrosyl residues of pKa 9.7 of the enzyme. This tyrosyl residue was probably either Tyr 217 or Tyr 104 on the basis of the reactivities of tyrosyl residues of the enzyme with TNM and their locations on the enzyme molecule. Carboxyl groups of SSI were modified by covalently binding glycine methyl ester with the aid of water-soluble carbodiimide, in order to neutralize the negative charges on SSI. In the difference spectrum which was observed on the binding of subtilisin BPN' and the 5.3-carboxyl-group-modified SSI at alkaline pH, the characteristic features of the protonation of a tyrosyl residue were essentially lost, and the difference spectrum is rather similar to that observed on the binding of the native SSI and the enzyme at neutral pH. This phenomenon indicates that the pKa of a tyrosyl residue of the enzyme is shifted upwards by interaction with carboxyl group(s) of SSI on the formation of the enzyme-inhibitor complex.", "contents": "The interaction of a tyrosyl residue and carboxyl groups in the specific interaction between Streptomyces subtilisin inhibitor and subtilisin BPN'. A chemical modification study. An ultraviolet absorption difference spectrum that is typical of a change in ionization state (pKa 9.7 leads to greater than 11.5) of a tyrosyl residue has been observed on the binding between Streptomyces subtilisin inhibitor (SSI) and subtilisin BPN' [EC 3.4.21.14] at alkaline pH, ionic strength 0.1 M, at 25 degrees C (Inouye, K., Tonomura, B., and Hiromi, K., submitted). When the complex of SSI and subtilisin BPN' is formed at an ionic strength of 0.6 M and pH 9.70, the characteristic features of the protonation of a tyrosyl residue in the difference spectrum are diminished. These results suggest that the pKa-shift of a tyrosyl residue observed at alkaline pH and lower ionic strength results from an electrostatic interaction. Nitration of tyrosyl residues of SSI and of subtilisin BPN' was performed with tetranitromethane (TNM). By measurements of the difference spectra observed on the binding of the tyrosyl-residue-nitrated SSI and the native subtilisin BPN', and on the binding of the native SSI and the tyrosyl-residue-nitrated subtilisin BPN' and alkaline pH, the tyrosyl residue in question was shown to be one out of the five tyrosyl residues of pKa 9.7 of the enzyme. This tyrosyl residue was probably either Tyr 217 or Tyr 104 on the basis of the reactivities of tyrosyl residues of the enzyme with TNM and their locations on the enzyme molecule. Carboxyl groups of SSI were modified by covalently binding glycine methyl ester with the aid of water-soluble carbodiimide, in order to neutralize the negative charges on SSI. In the difference spectrum which was observed on the binding of subtilisin BPN' and the 5.3-carboxyl-group-modified SSI at alkaline pH, the characteristic features of the protonation of a tyrosyl residue were essentially lost, and the difference spectrum is rather similar to that observed on the binding of the native SSI and the enzyme at neutral pH. This phenomenon indicates that the pKa of a tyrosyl residue of the enzyme is shifted upwards by interaction with carboxyl group(s) of SSI on the formation of the enzyme-inhibitor complex.", "PMID": 447612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8145", "title": "Functioning of mitochondria-bound hexokinase in rat brain in accordance with generation of ATP inside the organelle.", "content": "The function of mitochondria-bound hexokinase, the enzymatic form peculiar to the brain, in utilization of ATP generated inside the organelles, was examined by incubating rat brain mitochondrial fraction with [14C]glucose under various conditions. Addition of succinate and ADP to the incubation medium increased glucose 6-phosphate formation by the mitochondrial hexokinase and caused a smaller increase in ATP concentration in the mitochondria. The glucose phosphorylation was markedly inhibited by the addition of dinitrophenol, potassium cyanide, and oligomycin, and the ATP concentration was decreased. On the other hand, addition of atractyloside suppressed the glucose phosphorylation without affecting the mitochondrial hexokinase activity, whereas addition of antiserum against the mitochondrial hexokinase inhibited both glucose 6-phosphate formation and hexokinase activity. A part of both the glucose phosphorylation and hexokinase activities, however, remained even in the presence of the maximum dose of the anti-hexokinase serum and atractyloside. These results indicate the active utilization of intrinsically generated ATP by the mitochondria-bound hexokinase, a part of which may be located away from the surface of the mitochondrial membrane.", "contents": "Functioning of mitochondria-bound hexokinase in rat brain in accordance with generation of ATP inside the organelle. The function of mitochondria-bound hexokinase, the enzymatic form peculiar to the brain, in utilization of ATP generated inside the organelles, was examined by incubating rat brain mitochondrial fraction with [14C]glucose under various conditions. Addition of succinate and ADP to the incubation medium increased glucose 6-phosphate formation by the mitochondrial hexokinase and caused a smaller increase in ATP concentration in the mitochondria. The glucose phosphorylation was markedly inhibited by the addition of dinitrophenol, potassium cyanide, and oligomycin, and the ATP concentration was decreased. On the other hand, addition of atractyloside suppressed the glucose phosphorylation without affecting the mitochondrial hexokinase activity, whereas addition of antiserum against the mitochondrial hexokinase inhibited both glucose 6-phosphate formation and hexokinase activity. A part of both the glucose phosphorylation and hexokinase activities, however, remained even in the presence of the maximum dose of the anti-hexokinase serum and atractyloside. These results indicate the active utilization of intrinsically generated ATP by the mitochondria-bound hexokinase, a part of which may be located away from the surface of the mitochondrial membrane.", "PMID": 447613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8146", "title": "Bacteriophage phiNS11: a lipid-containing phage of acidophilic thermophilic bacteria. IV. Sedimentation coefficient, diffusion coefficient, partial specific volume, and particle weight of the phage.", "content": "The particle weight (molecular weight) of phiNS11 was determined from the sedimentation coefficient, diffusion coefficient, and partial specific volume of the phage. The sedimentation coefficient of the phage (S(0)20, W) is 416 +/- 2.7S. The diffusion coefficient D(0)20, W), which was determined by quasielastic light scattering measurement, is (0.57 +/- 0.03) x 10(-7) cm2/s. The partial specific volume was determined by the mechanical oscillation technique to be 0.747 +/- 0.007 cm3/g. Based on these values, the particle weight of the phage was calculated to be (70.3 +/- 4.3) x 10(6) daltons, which agrees well with the particle weight (69--72 x 10(6) daltons) estimated from the molecular weight of phage DNA and the content of DNA. The Stokes radius of the phage particle was calculated to be 37.7 +/- 2 nm and hydration of the phage was estimated to be 1.18 cm3/g of dry phage. From the particle weight and the chemical composition of the phage, we estimated that one phage particle contains one double-stranded DNA molecule, 16,000 residues of fatty acid, 72 protein I molecules, 920 protein II, 42 protein III, 48 protein IV, 290 protein V molecules, and 3,700 molecules of polyamines.", "contents": "Bacteriophage phiNS11: a lipid-containing phage of acidophilic thermophilic bacteria. IV. Sedimentation coefficient, diffusion coefficient, partial specific volume, and particle weight of the phage. The particle weight (molecular weight) of phiNS11 was determined from the sedimentation coefficient, diffusion coefficient, and partial specific volume of the phage. The sedimentation coefficient of the phage (S(0)20, W) is 416 +/- 2.7S. The diffusion coefficient D(0)20, W), which was determined by quasielastic light scattering measurement, is (0.57 +/- 0.03) x 10(-7) cm2/s. The partial specific volume was determined by the mechanical oscillation technique to be 0.747 +/- 0.007 cm3/g. Based on these values, the particle weight of the phage was calculated to be (70.3 +/- 4.3) x 10(6) daltons, which agrees well with the particle weight (69--72 x 10(6) daltons) estimated from the molecular weight of phage DNA and the content of DNA. The Stokes radius of the phage particle was calculated to be 37.7 +/- 2 nm and hydration of the phage was estimated to be 1.18 cm3/g of dry phage. From the particle weight and the chemical composition of the phage, we estimated that one phage particle contains one double-stranded DNA molecule, 16,000 residues of fatty acid, 72 protein I molecules, 920 protein II, 42 protein III, 48 protein IV, 290 protein V molecules, and 3,700 molecules of polyamines.", "PMID": 447614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8147", "title": "Ca2+ bindings of pig cardiac myosin, subfragment-1, and g2 light chain.", "content": "Ca2+ binding to pig cardiac myosin, subfragment-1 (S-1), and g2 light chain were investigated by the equilibrium dialysis method. Two different S-1s, one of which can bind Ca2+ and another which cannot, were prepared. In order to calculate the free Ca2+ concentrations adequately, the amounts of Ca2+ included in various chemicals and proteins were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Ca2+ contamination was greatest in KCl among the chemicals tested. In addition, the Ca2+ strongly bound to myosin and S-1 was released in the presence of Mg2+. When Mg2+ was not added, the Ca2+-binding constant of myosin was 4 x 10(5) M-1 and the maximum binding number was 1.8 mol per mol of myosin. Cooperativity between the 2 Ca2+ bindings could not be demonstrated. Mg2+ strongly inhibited the Ca2+ binding: at a free Ca2+ concentration of 1 x 10(-5) M, 1.3 mol Ca2+ was bound to myosin in the absence of Mg2+, but 0.6 and 0.2 mol were bound in the presence of 0.3 and 4.5 mM Mg2+, respectively. The Ca2+-binding constant of S-1, which contained a 15,000 dalton component, was 8.6 x 10(5) M-1, and the maximum binding number was 0.7 mol per mol of S-1. The 15,000 dalton component could be exchanged with extraneous g2. S-1 which lacked the 15,000 component could not bind Ca2+ at free Ca2+ concentrations less than 0.1 mM. The Ca2+ binding to free g2 light chain was about 100 times weaker than the binding to myosin, as indicated previously for skeletal myosin (Okamoto, Y. & Yagi, K. (1976) J. Biochem. 80, 111--120). The Ca2+-binding constant was obtained as 4.1 x 10(3) M-1 in the absence of added Mg2+. Phosphorylation of g2 light chain did not affect the Ca2+ binding to the free g2 light chain or to myosin. Ca2+ binding to cardiac native tropomyosin was also measured.", "contents": "Ca2+ bindings of pig cardiac myosin, subfragment-1, and g2 light chain. Ca2+ binding to pig cardiac myosin, subfragment-1 (S-1), and g2 light chain were investigated by the equilibrium dialysis method. Two different S-1s, one of which can bind Ca2+ and another which cannot, were prepared. In order to calculate the free Ca2+ concentrations adequately, the amounts of Ca2+ included in various chemicals and proteins were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Ca2+ contamination was greatest in KCl among the chemicals tested. In addition, the Ca2+ strongly bound to myosin and S-1 was released in the presence of Mg2+. When Mg2+ was not added, the Ca2+-binding constant of myosin was 4 x 10(5) M-1 and the maximum binding number was 1.8 mol per mol of myosin. Cooperativity between the 2 Ca2+ bindings could not be demonstrated. Mg2+ strongly inhibited the Ca2+ binding: at a free Ca2+ concentration of 1 x 10(-5) M, 1.3 mol Ca2+ was bound to myosin in the absence of Mg2+, but 0.6 and 0.2 mol were bound in the presence of 0.3 and 4.5 mM Mg2+, respectively. The Ca2+-binding constant of S-1, which contained a 15,000 dalton component, was 8.6 x 10(5) M-1, and the maximum binding number was 0.7 mol per mol of S-1. The 15,000 dalton component could be exchanged with extraneous g2. S-1 which lacked the 15,000 component could not bind Ca2+ at free Ca2+ concentrations less than 0.1 mM. The Ca2+ binding to free g2 light chain was about 100 times weaker than the binding to myosin, as indicated previously for skeletal myosin (Okamoto, Y. & Yagi, K. (1976) J. Biochem. 80, 111--120). The Ca2+-binding constant was obtained as 4.1 x 10(3) M-1 in the absence of added Mg2+. Phosphorylation of g2 light chain did not affect the Ca2+ binding to the free g2 light chain or to myosin. Ca2+ binding to cardiac native tropomyosin was also measured.", "PMID": 447615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8148", "title": "Covalently cross-linked monovalent, divalent, and tetravalent derivatives of concanavalin A.", "content": "Dimeric succinyl-concanavalin A was cross-linked with ethylenediamine using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide a condensing agent. Thus, a divalent dimer and a tetravalent tetramer composed mostly of covalently cross-linked subunits bearing altered net charges were obtained. Photoaffinity labeling of the cross-linked dimer with p-azidophenyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside resulted in a specific label for its saccharide-binding site and yielded a nonvalent dimer and a monovalent dimer (showing no subunit exchange). However, hemagglutination and glycogen precipitation data suggested that the labeled binding site is shielded but not destroyed by the label and can still bind weakly an external saccharide ligand possibly due to unsteadiness of the shielding label. Although nonvalent and monovalent derivatives were mitogenic as well as divalent and tetravalent derivatives for mouse splenic lymphocytes, binding and stimulation experiments indicated that their stimulating efficiencies after binding to the cells were far lower than those of the multivalent counterparts. Their activities were inhibited by methyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside, suggesting that the weak activities of nonvalent and monovalent derivatives were due to the labeled sites entirely and partly, respectively. We suggest that the triggering of lymphocyte mitogenesis by concanavalin A may depend on cross-linkage of cell surface receptors.", "contents": "Covalently cross-linked monovalent, divalent, and tetravalent derivatives of concanavalin A. Dimeric succinyl-concanavalin A was cross-linked with ethylenediamine using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide a condensing agent. Thus, a divalent dimer and a tetravalent tetramer composed mostly of covalently cross-linked subunits bearing altered net charges were obtained. Photoaffinity labeling of the cross-linked dimer with p-azidophenyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside resulted in a specific label for its saccharide-binding site and yielded a nonvalent dimer and a monovalent dimer (showing no subunit exchange). However, hemagglutination and glycogen precipitation data suggested that the labeled binding site is shielded but not destroyed by the label and can still bind weakly an external saccharide ligand possibly due to unsteadiness of the shielding label. Although nonvalent and monovalent derivatives were mitogenic as well as divalent and tetravalent derivatives for mouse splenic lymphocytes, binding and stimulation experiments indicated that their stimulating efficiencies after binding to the cells were far lower than those of the multivalent counterparts. Their activities were inhibited by methyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside, suggesting that the weak activities of nonvalent and monovalent derivatives were due to the labeled sites entirely and partly, respectively. We suggest that the triggering of lymphocyte mitogenesis by concanavalin A may depend on cross-linkage of cell surface receptors.", "PMID": 447616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8149", "title": "Two ribonucleases H from cultured plant cells.", "content": "Two forms of enzyme with ribonuclease H (RNase H) [EC 3.1.4.34] activities, have been partially purified from cultured plant cells, strain GD-2, derived from carrot root. One is an Mn2+-dependent RNase H, and the second is an Mg2+-dependent RNase H. These enzymes degrade RNA specifically in RNA-DNA hybrid structures. They were eluted at around 0.2 M and 0.4 M potassium chloride in phosphocellulose chromatography, and were further purified using blue Sepharose. Mg2+-dependent RNase H exhibits maximal activity at pH 9.0, and requires 10 to 15 mM Mg2+ for maximal activity, whereas the Mn2+-dependent enzyme is most active at pH 8.0, is maximally active at an Mn2+ concentration of 0.4 mM, and has some activity with Mg2+. Both enzymes require a sulfhydryl reagent for maximal activity. The enzymes liberate a mixture of oligonucleotides with 5'-phosphate and 3'-hydroxyl termini. The apparent molecular weight of the Mg2+-dependent RNase H was estimated to 18--20 X 10(4) and that of the Mn 2+- dependent RNase H was estimated to be 14 x 10(4) by gel filtration.", "contents": "Two ribonucleases H from cultured plant cells. Two forms of enzyme with ribonuclease H (RNase H) [EC 3.1.4.34] activities, have been partially purified from cultured plant cells, strain GD-2, derived from carrot root. One is an Mn2+-dependent RNase H, and the second is an Mg2+-dependent RNase H. These enzymes degrade RNA specifically in RNA-DNA hybrid structures. They were eluted at around 0.2 M and 0.4 M potassium chloride in phosphocellulose chromatography, and were further purified using blue Sepharose. Mg2+-dependent RNase H exhibits maximal activity at pH 9.0, and requires 10 to 15 mM Mg2+ for maximal activity, whereas the Mn2+-dependent enzyme is most active at pH 8.0, is maximally active at an Mn2+ concentration of 0.4 mM, and has some activity with Mg2+. Both enzymes require a sulfhydryl reagent for maximal activity. The enzymes liberate a mixture of oligonucleotides with 5'-phosphate and 3'-hydroxyl termini. The apparent molecular weight of the Mg2+-dependent RNase H was estimated to 18--20 X 10(4) and that of the Mn 2+- dependent RNase H was estimated to be 14 x 10(4) by gel filtration.", "PMID": 447617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8150", "title": "Studies on rat liver argininosuccinate synthetase. Inhibition by various amino acids.", "content": "Inhibition studies of crystallized rat liver argininosuccinate synthetase [EC 6.3.4.5] are described. 1. L-Argininosuccinate, L-histidine, and L-tryptophan inhibited the enzyme activity at saturating amounts of the substrates. 2. L-Norvaline, L-argininosuccinate, L-arginine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine competitively inhibited the enzyme activity at a low concentration of L-citrulline, with Ki values of 1.3 x 10(4) M, 2.5 X 10(-4) M, 6.7 X 10(-4) M, 6.3 X 10(-4) M, and 6.0 x 10(-4) M, respectively. 3. L-Argininosuccinate and L-arginine competitively inhibited the enzyme activity at a low concentration of L-aspartate, with Ki values of 9.5 x 10(-4) M and 1.2 x 10(-3) M, respectively. 4. The modes of inhibition by L-histidine were mixed-noncompetitive, uncompetitive, and noncompetitive types with respect to L-citrulline, L-aspartate, and ATP, respectively. 5. When the enzyme was preincubated with L-citrulline, the enzyme activity was slightly increased in the presence of a low concentration of L-histidine in the assay mixture. 6. The conformation of the enzyme was markedly changed by the addition of L-histidine as judged from the CD spectrum. This change was partially reversed by incubation with L-citrulline.", "contents": "Studies on rat liver argininosuccinate synthetase. Inhibition by various amino acids. Inhibition studies of crystallized rat liver argininosuccinate synthetase [EC 6.3.4.5] are described. 1. L-Argininosuccinate, L-histidine, and L-tryptophan inhibited the enzyme activity at saturating amounts of the substrates. 2. L-Norvaline, L-argininosuccinate, L-arginine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine competitively inhibited the enzyme activity at a low concentration of L-citrulline, with Ki values of 1.3 x 10(4) M, 2.5 X 10(-4) M, 6.7 X 10(-4) M, 6.3 X 10(-4) M, and 6.0 x 10(-4) M, respectively. 3. L-Argininosuccinate and L-arginine competitively inhibited the enzyme activity at a low concentration of L-aspartate, with Ki values of 9.5 x 10(-4) M and 1.2 x 10(-3) M, respectively. 4. The modes of inhibition by L-histidine were mixed-noncompetitive, uncompetitive, and noncompetitive types with respect to L-citrulline, L-aspartate, and ATP, respectively. 5. When the enzyme was preincubated with L-citrulline, the enzyme activity was slightly increased in the presence of a low concentration of L-histidine in the assay mixture. 6. The conformation of the enzyme was markedly changed by the addition of L-histidine as judged from the CD spectrum. This change was partially reversed by incubation with L-citrulline.", "PMID": 447618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8151", "title": "Modification of an arginine residue of a base-nonspecific ribonuclease from Aspergillus saitoi.", "content": "1. A base-nonspecific ribonuclease from Aspergillus saitoi [RNase Ms, EC 3.1.4.23; molecular weight, 12,500] was modified with phenylglyoxal (PG) and 1,2-cyclohexanedione (CHD) in order to determine whether a single arginine residue was involved in the active site of the enzyme. 2. RNase Ms was inactivated by both PG and CHD with concomitant loss of one arginine residue. A competitive inhibitor of RNase Ms, 2',(3')-AMP, protected the enzyme from inactivation by PG. These findings strongly suggest that one arginine residue is involved in the active site of RNase Ms. 3. Difference CD spectra were measured at pH 5.5 for the binding of 2'-AMP and adenosine to native RNase Ms and the CHD- and PG-modified enzyme derivatives to determine the association constants. The arginine modification brought about a marked decrease in the binding affinity of 2'-AMP for the enzyme, but only a slight decrease for adenosine, suggesting that the arginine residue had interacted with the phosphate groups of the substrate.", "contents": "Modification of an arginine residue of a base-nonspecific ribonuclease from Aspergillus saitoi. 1. A base-nonspecific ribonuclease from Aspergillus saitoi [RNase Ms, EC 3.1.4.23; molecular weight, 12,500] was modified with phenylglyoxal (PG) and 1,2-cyclohexanedione (CHD) in order to determine whether a single arginine residue was involved in the active site of the enzyme. 2. RNase Ms was inactivated by both PG and CHD with concomitant loss of one arginine residue. A competitive inhibitor of RNase Ms, 2',(3')-AMP, protected the enzyme from inactivation by PG. These findings strongly suggest that one arginine residue is involved in the active site of RNase Ms. 3. Difference CD spectra were measured at pH 5.5 for the binding of 2'-AMP and adenosine to native RNase Ms and the CHD- and PG-modified enzyme derivatives to determine the association constants. The arginine modification brought about a marked decrease in the binding affinity of 2'-AMP for the enzyme, but only a slight decrease for adenosine, suggesting that the arginine residue had interacted with the phosphate groups of the substrate.", "PMID": 447619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8152", "title": "Orientation of the rhodopsin sugar moiety in bovine disk membrane.", "content": "Rhodopsin from the bovine rod outer segment contains a covalently linked carbohydrate moiety (Heller, J. & Lawrence, M.A. (1973) Biochemistry 9, 864--868). We studied the location of this carbohydrate moiety on the disk membrane by using ferritin-conjugated concanavalin A and concanavalin A labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate. Electron microscopic observation of sonicated disk membrane that was labelled with ferritin-concanavalin A revealed the electron-dense image of ferritin on the inner surface of the disk membrane and not on its outer surface. Intact disk membrane that was similarly treated with ferritin-concanavalin A showed a complete absence of ferritin molecules on its surface. In an independent series of experiments we confirmed that the sonicated disk membrane bound three to five times more fluorescein-labelled concanavalin A than the intact disk membrane did. From these experiments we conclude that the carbohydrate moiety of bovine rhodopsin is located on the inner surface of the disk membrane, in agreement with the report by Rohlich on the frog rod outer segment disk membrane (Rohlich, P. (1976) Nature 263, 789--791).", "contents": "Orientation of the rhodopsin sugar moiety in bovine disk membrane. Rhodopsin from the bovine rod outer segment contains a covalently linked carbohydrate moiety (Heller, J. & Lawrence, M.A. (1973) Biochemistry 9, 864--868). We studied the location of this carbohydrate moiety on the disk membrane by using ferritin-conjugated concanavalin A and concanavalin A labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate. Electron microscopic observation of sonicated disk membrane that was labelled with ferritin-concanavalin A revealed the electron-dense image of ferritin on the inner surface of the disk membrane and not on its outer surface. Intact disk membrane that was similarly treated with ferritin-concanavalin A showed a complete absence of ferritin molecules on its surface. In an independent series of experiments we confirmed that the sonicated disk membrane bound three to five times more fluorescein-labelled concanavalin A than the intact disk membrane did. From these experiments we conclude that the carbohydrate moiety of bovine rhodopsin is located on the inner surface of the disk membrane, in agreement with the report by Rohlich on the frog rod outer segment disk membrane (Rohlich, P. (1976) Nature 263, 789--791).", "PMID": 447620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8153", "title": "Rat liver glutamine 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate amidotransferase [EC 2.4.2.14]. Purification and properties.", "content": "Glutamine 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP) amidotransferase (amidophosphoribosyltransferase), [EC 2.4.2.14] was purified 1,600-fold from rat liver. The preparation gave two protein bands on acrylamide gel electrophoresis, of which only the main band showed enzyme activity. The molecular weight of the enzyme was estimated to be 215,000, 200,000, and 195,000 by Sephadex G-150 gel filtration, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and sucrose density grandient ultracentrifugation, respectively. The apparent Km values for glutamine and PRPP were 1.24 mM and 0.57 mM, respectively. The concentration-activity curve for PRPP changed from a hyperbolic to a sigmoidal form on addition of AMP or GMP, and this inhibition by AMP was prevented by increasing the PRPP concentration. In the presence of high concentrations of inorganic phosphate, the catalytic activity was decreased and the sensitivity to AMP inhibition was slightly increased. The molecular size of liver amidotransferase was not changed by the addition of PRPP, AMP, or 2-mercaptoethanol. The purified rat liver enzyme has a broad pH-range of activity between 6.5 and 8.5.", "contents": "Rat liver glutamine 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate amidotransferase [EC 2.4.2.14]. Purification and properties. Glutamine 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP) amidotransferase (amidophosphoribosyltransferase), [EC 2.4.2.14] was purified 1,600-fold from rat liver. The preparation gave two protein bands on acrylamide gel electrophoresis, of which only the main band showed enzyme activity. The molecular weight of the enzyme was estimated to be 215,000, 200,000, and 195,000 by Sephadex G-150 gel filtration, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and sucrose density grandient ultracentrifugation, respectively. The apparent Km values for glutamine and PRPP were 1.24 mM and 0.57 mM, respectively. The concentration-activity curve for PRPP changed from a hyperbolic to a sigmoidal form on addition of AMP or GMP, and this inhibition by AMP was prevented by increasing the PRPP concentration. In the presence of high concentrations of inorganic phosphate, the catalytic activity was decreased and the sensitivity to AMP inhibition was slightly increased. The molecular size of liver amidotransferase was not changed by the addition of PRPP, AMP, or 2-mercaptoethanol. The purified rat liver enzyme has a broad pH-range of activity between 6.5 and 8.5.", "PMID": 447621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8154", "title": "Interaction of troponin-I with troponin-T and its fragment.", "content": "The interaction of troponin-I (TN-I) and troponin-T (TN-T) was examined using immobilized TN-2 as an affinity adsorbent. TN-T dissolved in 0.4 M NaCl bound strongly to immobilized TN-I and required the application of 5 M urea for its elution. A chymotryptic fragment of TN-T (Ohtsuki, 1978), perhaps the C-terminal fragment, retained the ability of the original TN-T to bind to immobilized TN-I.", "contents": "Interaction of troponin-I with troponin-T and its fragment. The interaction of troponin-I (TN-I) and troponin-T (TN-T) was examined using immobilized TN-2 as an affinity adsorbent. TN-T dissolved in 0.4 M NaCl bound strongly to immobilized TN-I and required the application of 5 M urea for its elution. A chymotryptic fragment of TN-T (Ohtsuki, 1978), perhaps the C-terminal fragment, retained the ability of the original TN-T to bind to immobilized TN-I.", "PMID": 447622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8155", "title": "High performance liquid chromatography of unsaturated disaccharides produced from chondroitin sulfates by chondroitinase.", "content": "High performance liquid chromatography was performed by the ion pair method on unsaturated disaccharides produced from chondroitin sulfates by the action of chondroitinase. Completely separated peaks corresponding to deltaDi-0S, deltaDi-4S, and deltaDi-6S were obtained on a column of mu-bondapak-C18 with 0.035 M tetra-butylammonium phosphate (pH 7.54) as a mobile phase. There was a linear relationship between the ratio of the peak area and the amount of each standard tested.", "contents": "High performance liquid chromatography of unsaturated disaccharides produced from chondroitin sulfates by chondroitinase. High performance liquid chromatography was performed by the ion pair method on unsaturated disaccharides produced from chondroitin sulfates by the action of chondroitinase. Completely separated peaks corresponding to deltaDi-0S, deltaDi-4S, and deltaDi-6S were obtained on a column of mu-bondapak-C18 with 0.035 M tetra-butylammonium phosphate (pH 7.54) as a mobile phase. There was a linear relationship between the ratio of the peak area and the amount of each standard tested.", "PMID": 447623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8156", "title": "Cause of subunit heterogeneity in purified rat renal phosphate-dependent glutaminase.", "content": "When electrophoresed on polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate, highly purified rat renal phosphate-dependent glutaminase exhibits subunits which range in molecular weight from 57,000 to 75,000. Peptide mapping of the separated subunits following limited proteolysis in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate shows that all of the various subunits are related in structure. The glutaminase, immunoprecipitated from Triton X-100-solubilized mitochondria, is composed primarily of subunits which have molecular weights of 83,000. In addition, the series of smaller subunits is generated during storage of the Triton-solubilized glutaminase at 4 degrees C. These results indicate that the heterogeneity of subunit size found in the purified glutaminase results from a noninactivating partial proteolysis of the native form of the enzyme.", "contents": "Cause of subunit heterogeneity in purified rat renal phosphate-dependent glutaminase. When electrophoresed on polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate, highly purified rat renal phosphate-dependent glutaminase exhibits subunits which range in molecular weight from 57,000 to 75,000. Peptide mapping of the separated subunits following limited proteolysis in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate shows that all of the various subunits are related in structure. The glutaminase, immunoprecipitated from Triton X-100-solubilized mitochondria, is composed primarily of subunits which have molecular weights of 83,000. In addition, the series of smaller subunits is generated during storage of the Triton-solubilized glutaminase at 4 degrees C. These results indicate that the heterogeneity of subunit size found in the purified glutaminase results from a noninactivating partial proteolysis of the native form of the enzyme.", "PMID": 447624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8157", "title": "Purification of a hexokinase-binding protein from the outer mitochondrial membrane.", "content": "Brain hexokinase (ATP:D-hexose-6-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.1) binds selectively to the outer membrane of rat liver mitochondria but not to inner mitochondrial or microsomal membranes nor to the plasma membrane of human erythrocytes. A protein having subunit molecular weight of 31,000, determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis, has been highly purified from the outer mitochondrial membrane by repetitive solubilization with octyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside followed by reconstitution into membranous vesicles when the detergent is removed by dialysis. When incorporated into lipid vesicles, the protein confers the ability to bind brain hexokinase in a Glc-6-P-sensitive manner as is seen with the intact outer mitochondrial membrane. Hexokinase binding ability and the 31,000 subunit molecular weight protein co-sediment during sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Both hexokinase binding ability and the 31,000 subunit molecular weight protein are resistant to protease treatment of the intact outer mitochondrial membrane while other membrane proteins are extensively degraded. It is concluded that this protein, designated the hexokinase-binding protein (HBP), is an integral membrane protein responsible for the selective binding of hexokinase by the outer mitochondrial membrane.", "contents": "Purification of a hexokinase-binding protein from the outer mitochondrial membrane. Brain hexokinase (ATP:D-hexose-6-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.1) binds selectively to the outer membrane of rat liver mitochondria but not to inner mitochondrial or microsomal membranes nor to the plasma membrane of human erythrocytes. A protein having subunit molecular weight of 31,000, determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis, has been highly purified from the outer mitochondrial membrane by repetitive solubilization with octyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside followed by reconstitution into membranous vesicles when the detergent is removed by dialysis. When incorporated into lipid vesicles, the protein confers the ability to bind brain hexokinase in a Glc-6-P-sensitive manner as is seen with the intact outer mitochondrial membrane. Hexokinase binding ability and the 31,000 subunit molecular weight protein co-sediment during sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Both hexokinase binding ability and the 31,000 subunit molecular weight protein are resistant to protease treatment of the intact outer mitochondrial membrane while other membrane proteins are extensively degraded. It is concluded that this protein, designated the hexokinase-binding protein (HBP), is an integral membrane protein responsible for the selective binding of hexokinase by the outer mitochondrial membrane.", "PMID": 447625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8158", "title": "Phosphorylation of the 20,000-dalton light chain of myosin of intact arterial smooth muscle in rest and in contraction.", "content": "The 20,000-dalton myosin light chain of intact pig carotid arteries was found to be rapidly labeled when the arterial muscle was incubated in physiological salt solution at 37 degrees C containing [32P]orthophosphate. Light chain phosphorylation in the intact muscle had a marked requirement for Ca2+ and was dependent upon the passive tension applied to the muscle. Norepinephrine- or KCl-induced contractures were associated with concomitant increases in light chain phosphorylation.", "contents": "Phosphorylation of the 20,000-dalton light chain of myosin of intact arterial smooth muscle in rest and in contraction. The 20,000-dalton myosin light chain of intact pig carotid arteries was found to be rapidly labeled when the arterial muscle was incubated in physiological salt solution at 37 degrees C containing [32P]orthophosphate. Light chain phosphorylation in the intact muscle had a marked requirement for Ca2+ and was dependent upon the passive tension applied to the muscle. Norepinephrine- or KCl-induced contractures were associated with concomitant increases in light chain phosphorylation.", "PMID": 447626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8159", "title": "Carrier protein effects on DNA-cellulose chromatography of putative steroid receptors.", "content": "In the absence of carrier proteins, putative androgen receptors elute from DNA-cellulose in the range of 120 to 190 mM NaCl. However, in the presence of lysozyme, most of the receptor elutes in the range of 200 to 230 mM NaCl. This is the same range in which the lysozyme itself, a basic protein, elutes after being chromatographed in the same manner. Moreover, at low ionic strength, lysozyme also increases the sedimentation velocity of both androgen and estrogen receptors. In contrast, bovine serum albumin neither adheres to DNA-cellulose nor alters the sedimentation properties of these proteins. The lysozyme effects can account for some discrepancies reported in the literature. Thus, for qualitative elution studies, the use of lysozyme as a carrier protein is not advised, although its direct interaction with receptors might facilitate quantitative fractionation.", "contents": "Carrier protein effects on DNA-cellulose chromatography of putative steroid receptors. In the absence of carrier proteins, putative androgen receptors elute from DNA-cellulose in the range of 120 to 190 mM NaCl. However, in the presence of lysozyme, most of the receptor elutes in the range of 200 to 230 mM NaCl. This is the same range in which the lysozyme itself, a basic protein, elutes after being chromatographed in the same manner. Moreover, at low ionic strength, lysozyme also increases the sedimentation velocity of both androgen and estrogen receptors. In contrast, bovine serum albumin neither adheres to DNA-cellulose nor alters the sedimentation properties of these proteins. The lysozyme effects can account for some discrepancies reported in the literature. Thus, for qualitative elution studies, the use of lysozyme as a carrier protein is not advised, although its direct interaction with receptors might facilitate quantitative fractionation.", "PMID": 447627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8160", "title": "The high potential iron-sulfur cluster of aconitase is a binuclear iron-sulfur cluster.", "content": "It has been reported (Ruzicka, F.J., and Beinert, H. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 2514-2517) that aconitase in the oxidized state, as isolated, shows an electron paramagnetic resonance signal centered at g = 2.01, typical of high potential iron-sulfur proteins. Since the magnetic state corresponding to this signal has thus far only been found in tetranuclear iron-sulfur clusters in model compounds and proteins, it could be expected that aconitase also contains a [4Fe-4S] cluster. We show here that core extrusion, in the presence of hexamethylphosphoramide and o-xylyl-alpha,alpha'-dithiol and subsequent ligand exchange with p-trifluoromethylbenzenethiol yield absorption spectra typical of binuclear iron-sulfur clusters. According to the absorbance measured, the concentration of the extruded [2Fe-2S] cluster quantitatively accounts for the iron-sulfur content of the preparations examined. Preliminary studies of the 19F nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum obtained on extrusion with p-trifluoromethylbenzenethiol confirm the presence of a binuclear cluster in aconitase.", "contents": "The high potential iron-sulfur cluster of aconitase is a binuclear iron-sulfur cluster. It has been reported (Ruzicka, F.J., and Beinert, H. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 2514-2517) that aconitase in the oxidized state, as isolated, shows an electron paramagnetic resonance signal centered at g = 2.01, typical of high potential iron-sulfur proteins. Since the magnetic state corresponding to this signal has thus far only been found in tetranuclear iron-sulfur clusters in model compounds and proteins, it could be expected that aconitase also contains a [4Fe-4S] cluster. We show here that core extrusion, in the presence of hexamethylphosphoramide and o-xylyl-alpha,alpha'-dithiol and subsequent ligand exchange with p-trifluoromethylbenzenethiol yield absorption spectra typical of binuclear iron-sulfur clusters. According to the absorbance measured, the concentration of the extruded [2Fe-2S] cluster quantitatively accounts for the iron-sulfur content of the preparations examined. Preliminary studies of the 19F nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum obtained on extrusion with p-trifluoromethylbenzenethiol confirm the presence of a binuclear cluster in aconitase.", "PMID": 447628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8161", "title": "A hepatic soluble cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase. Stimulation by basic polypeptides.", "content": "Enzymatic phosphorylation of cytoplasmic proteins by a cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase (casein kinase of a classical type) in rat liver is stimulated greatly, sometimes more than 10-fold, by polycations, particularly by basic polypeptides such as polylysine, histone, and protamine. These basic polypeptides themselves do not serve as phosphate acceptors but act as stimulators for the reaction by interacting with cytoplasmic proteins rather than with enzyme. The stimulatory effect varies with substrates employed; with casein and phosvitin the stimulation does not exceed 2- to 3-fold. The cytoplasmic endogenous phosphate acceptor proteins measurable in the presence of basic polypeptides are abundant for this species of protein kinase.", "contents": "A hepatic soluble cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase. Stimulation by basic polypeptides. Enzymatic phosphorylation of cytoplasmic proteins by a cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase (casein kinase of a classical type) in rat liver is stimulated greatly, sometimes more than 10-fold, by polycations, particularly by basic polypeptides such as polylysine, histone, and protamine. These basic polypeptides themselves do not serve as phosphate acceptors but act as stimulators for the reaction by interacting with cytoplasmic proteins rather than with enzyme. The stimulatory effect varies with substrates employed; with casein and phosvitin the stimulation does not exceed 2- to 3-fold. The cytoplasmic endogenous phosphate acceptor proteins measurable in the presence of basic polypeptides are abundant for this species of protein kinase.", "PMID": 447634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8162", "title": "Structural characterization of a glycoprotein isolated from alveoli of patients with alveolar proteinosis.", "content": "A soluble glycoprotein of Mr = 80,000 has been isolated from lung lavage of patients with alveolar proteinosis and found to contain 5 residues of hydroxyproline, 91 residues of glycine, 3 residues of methionine, 3.8 molecules of sialic acid, 6 molecules of mannose, 5.9 molecules of galactose, 1 molecule of fucose, and 9.1 molecules of glucosamine. Cyanogen bromide (CNBr) treatment of the glycoprotein resulted in four peptides with molecular weights of 36,000, 27,000, 12,000, and 5,000. The chemical compositions of the CNBr peptides indicated the presence of hydroxyproline and high amounts of glycine in all but one of the peptides; two of the four CNBr peptides contained carbohydrate. Limited trypsin digestion of the glycoprotein of Mr = 80,000 resulted in four peptides with molecular weights of 62,000, 36,000, 26,000 and 18,000, the latter being the NH2-terminal peptide of the native glycoprotein molecule. The peptide of Mr = 26,000 was found to be the COOH-terminal peptide.", "contents": "Structural characterization of a glycoprotein isolated from alveoli of patients with alveolar proteinosis. A soluble glycoprotein of Mr = 80,000 has been isolated from lung lavage of patients with alveolar proteinosis and found to contain 5 residues of hydroxyproline, 91 residues of glycine, 3 residues of methionine, 3.8 molecules of sialic acid, 6 molecules of mannose, 5.9 molecules of galactose, 1 molecule of fucose, and 9.1 molecules of glucosamine. Cyanogen bromide (CNBr) treatment of the glycoprotein resulted in four peptides with molecular weights of 36,000, 27,000, 12,000, and 5,000. The chemical compositions of the CNBr peptides indicated the presence of hydroxyproline and high amounts of glycine in all but one of the peptides; two of the four CNBr peptides contained carbohydrate. Limited trypsin digestion of the glycoprotein of Mr = 80,000 resulted in four peptides with molecular weights of 62,000, 36,000, 26,000 and 18,000, the latter being the NH2-terminal peptide of the native glycoprotein molecule. The peptide of Mr = 26,000 was found to be the COOH-terminal peptide.", "PMID": 447640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8163", "title": "The interaction of trifluoroacetyl peptide chloromethyl ketones with porcine pancreatic elastase. Direct evidence for nonproductive enzyme.inhibitor complexes.", "content": "19F NMR investigations of the interactions between elastase and the reversible inhibitors CF3CO-Ala3, CF3CO-Lys-Ala2 and CF3CO-Ala4 show that these peptides have a single mode of binding to the enzyme. Furthermore the results indicate that the CF3CO-group experiences the same environment in all of the reversible complexes formed with these inhibitors. This agrees with the higher affinity of these peptides for the enzyme as compared to the corresponding acetylated inhibitors and confirms our earlier hypothesis of the existence of a specific binding site for the CF3CO-group on the enzyme. The interactions between elastase and the irreversible inhibitors CF3CO-Alan chloromethyl ketone (n = 2, 3, 4, 5) and CF3CO-Lys-Ala4 chloromethyl ketone have been investigated by enzymatic measurements and 19F NMR spectroscopy. The kinetic constants k2 and KI describing the irreversible inhibition are significantly lower for all the CF3CO-peptide chloromethyl ketones with exception of CF3CO-Ala2 chloromethyl ketone, than for the corresponding acetylated ones. Moreover, 19F NMR spectroscopy enabled us to demonstrate, for the tri- and tetrapeptide derivatives, the parallel formation of reversible nonproductive enzyme.inhibitor complexes. The spectroscopic properties of these complexes are completely different from those of the irreversible complexes but are similar to those observed with the reversible complexes described above. In the case of the pentapeptide chloromethyl ketones, fast hydrolysis of the peptide or fast inactivation of the enzyme does not allow observations to be made but does not exclude the existence of reversible nonproductive complexes. In fact, their existence is strongly suggested by the enzyme reaction rate measurements. The similarity of the properties of all the reversible complexes, their striking differences with those of all the irreversible complexes, as well as their mutual exclusivity, permit the conclusion that the CF3CO-group does not bind at one of the classical S subsites of elastase.", "contents": "The interaction of trifluoroacetyl peptide chloromethyl ketones with porcine pancreatic elastase. Direct evidence for nonproductive enzyme.inhibitor complexes. 19F NMR investigations of the interactions between elastase and the reversible inhibitors CF3CO-Ala3, CF3CO-Lys-Ala2 and CF3CO-Ala4 show that these peptides have a single mode of binding to the enzyme. Furthermore the results indicate that the CF3CO-group experiences the same environment in all of the reversible complexes formed with these inhibitors. This agrees with the higher affinity of these peptides for the enzyme as compared to the corresponding acetylated inhibitors and confirms our earlier hypothesis of the existence of a specific binding site for the CF3CO-group on the enzyme. The interactions between elastase and the irreversible inhibitors CF3CO-Alan chloromethyl ketone (n = 2, 3, 4, 5) and CF3CO-Lys-Ala4 chloromethyl ketone have been investigated by enzymatic measurements and 19F NMR spectroscopy. The kinetic constants k2 and KI describing the irreversible inhibition are significantly lower for all the CF3CO-peptide chloromethyl ketones with exception of CF3CO-Ala2 chloromethyl ketone, than for the corresponding acetylated ones. Moreover, 19F NMR spectroscopy enabled us to demonstrate, for the tri- and tetrapeptide derivatives, the parallel formation of reversible nonproductive enzyme.inhibitor complexes. The spectroscopic properties of these complexes are completely different from those of the irreversible complexes but are similar to those observed with the reversible complexes described above. In the case of the pentapeptide chloromethyl ketones, fast hydrolysis of the peptide or fast inactivation of the enzyme does not allow observations to be made but does not exclude the existence of reversible nonproductive complexes. In fact, their existence is strongly suggested by the enzyme reaction rate measurements. The similarity of the properties of all the reversible complexes, their striking differences with those of all the irreversible complexes, as well as their mutual exclusivity, permit the conclusion that the CF3CO-group does not bind at one of the classical S subsites of elastase.", "PMID": 447642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8164", "title": "Inhibition of human leukocyte elastase by acetyl and trifluoroacetyl oligopeptide chloromethyl ketones.", "content": "The action of human leukocyte elastase on a series of acetyl and trifluoroacetyl tri-, tetra-, and pentapeptide chloromethyl ketones has been investigated. Leukocyte and pancreatic elastases react quite differently with these irreversible inhibitors. For instance, leukocyte elastase has a much lower affinity for the compounds than pancreatic elastase. On the other hand, the inhibition rate constants of the two enzymes are not influenced in the same way by peptide chain elongation. The two elastases, however, share a common property: trifluoroacetyl tri- and tetraalanine chloromethyl ketones are more tightly bound but are less reactive than the corresponding acetylated inhibitors. This behavior is probably due to the formation of nonproductive complexes between the enzymes and the trifluoroacetylated inhibitors.", "contents": "Inhibition of human leukocyte elastase by acetyl and trifluoroacetyl oligopeptide chloromethyl ketones. The action of human leukocyte elastase on a series of acetyl and trifluoroacetyl tri-, tetra-, and pentapeptide chloromethyl ketones has been investigated. Leukocyte and pancreatic elastases react quite differently with these irreversible inhibitors. For instance, leukocyte elastase has a much lower affinity for the compounds than pancreatic elastase. On the other hand, the inhibition rate constants of the two enzymes are not influenced in the same way by peptide chain elongation. The two elastases, however, share a common property: trifluoroacetyl tri- and tetraalanine chloromethyl ketones are more tightly bound but are less reactive than the corresponding acetylated inhibitors. This behavior is probably due to the formation of nonproductive complexes between the enzymes and the trifluoroacetylated inhibitors.", "PMID": 447643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8165", "title": "On the fidelity of DNA replication. Studies with human placenta DNA polymerases.", "content": "The fidelity of DNA synthesis with purified DNA polymerase alpha and beta from human placenta has been studied. With poly[d(A-T)] as the template-primer and Mg2+ as the metal activator, DNA polymerase alpha incorporates 1 mol of dGMP for every 6,000 to 12,000 mol of complementary nucleotides polymerized. Under the same conditions, DNA polymerase beta is more accurate, the error rate being 1/20,000 to 1/60,000. This greater accuracy of DNA polymerase beta is observed with a variety of homopolymer templates. With both enzymes, substitution of Mg2+ with activating concentrations of Mn2+ or Co2+ enhances the frequency of misincorporation. At greater than activating concentrations of Mn2+ and Co2+, there is an inhibition of complementary nucleotide incorporation, further increasing the frequency of misincorporation. Nearest neighbor analysis of the products synthesized with both enzymes indicates that the noncomplementary nucleotides are incorporated predominantly as single base substitutions. The greater accuracy of DNA polymerase beta over DNA polymerase alpha should be considered in relationship to their possible roles in DNA replication and repair.", "contents": "On the fidelity of DNA replication. Studies with human placenta DNA polymerases. The fidelity of DNA synthesis with purified DNA polymerase alpha and beta from human placenta has been studied. With poly[d(A-T)] as the template-primer and Mg2+ as the metal activator, DNA polymerase alpha incorporates 1 mol of dGMP for every 6,000 to 12,000 mol of complementary nucleotides polymerized. Under the same conditions, DNA polymerase beta is more accurate, the error rate being 1/20,000 to 1/60,000. This greater accuracy of DNA polymerase beta is observed with a variety of homopolymer templates. With both enzymes, substitution of Mg2+ with activating concentrations of Mn2+ or Co2+ enhances the frequency of misincorporation. At greater than activating concentrations of Mn2+ and Co2+, there is an inhibition of complementary nucleotide incorporation, further increasing the frequency of misincorporation. Nearest neighbor analysis of the products synthesized with both enzymes indicates that the noncomplementary nucleotides are incorporated predominantly as single base substitutions. The greater accuracy of DNA polymerase beta over DNA polymerase alpha should be considered in relationship to their possible roles in DNA replication and repair.", "PMID": 447644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8166", "title": "Binding specificity of the two major DNA-binding proteins in human serum.", "content": "The two major DNA-binding proteins of human serum (DNA-binding protein 1 and DNA-binding protein 2) were shown to bind preferentially to single-stranded polynucleotides rich in guanine residues. Equilibrium competition experiments using a nitrocellulose filter assay system containing labeled human lymphocyte DNA and various competing natural and synthetic polynucleotides indicated that both proteins recognized sequences of bases containing a keto group in either position 6 (purines) or 4 (pyrimidines) and that these keto groups must be readily accessible for effective binding to occur. Guanine was shown to be the preferred nucleotide through inhibition experiments using a series of synthetic homopolymers and a series of bacterial DNAs of differing G + C content. The relationship between protein affinity and G + C content was shown to be directly proportional. The equilibrium constants for the binding of the human lymphocyte DNA by both proteins were on the order of 10(-6) M, and the length of the nucleotide sequence necessary for effective binding was found to be 12 to 18 bases using a series of oligomers of poly(dG).", "contents": "Binding specificity of the two major DNA-binding proteins in human serum. The two major DNA-binding proteins of human serum (DNA-binding protein 1 and DNA-binding protein 2) were shown to bind preferentially to single-stranded polynucleotides rich in guanine residues. Equilibrium competition experiments using a nitrocellulose filter assay system containing labeled human lymphocyte DNA and various competing natural and synthetic polynucleotides indicated that both proteins recognized sequences of bases containing a keto group in either position 6 (purines) or 4 (pyrimidines) and that these keto groups must be readily accessible for effective binding to occur. Guanine was shown to be the preferred nucleotide through inhibition experiments using a series of synthetic homopolymers and a series of bacterial DNAs of differing G + C content. The relationship between protein affinity and G + C content was shown to be directly proportional. The equilibrium constants for the binding of the human lymphocyte DNA by both proteins were on the order of 10(-6) M, and the length of the nucleotide sequence necessary for effective binding was found to be 12 to 18 bases using a series of oligomers of poly(dG).", "PMID": 447645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8167", "title": "Preferential utilization of newly synthesized cholesterol as substrate for bile acid biosynthesis. An in vivo study using 18O2-inhalation technique.", "content": "Incorporation of 18O in cholic anc chenodeoxycholic acid was determined after inhalation of 18O2 by rats with biliary fistula. After a 30-min inhalation, the maximal incorporation of 18O in the three hydroxyl groups of cholic acid was about 1.8 atoms, and in the two hydroxyl groups of chenodeoxycholic acid about 1.1 atoms. About 0.4 atom of 18O in the cholic and chenodeoxycholic acid isolated was present at C-3. It was calculated that at least 50% of the biosynthesized bile acids were derived from newly synthesized cholesterol. The time course for the incorporation of 18O at C-3 of chenodeoxycholic acid was slightly different from that of cholic acid, indicating that a small part of chenodeoxycholic acid might have been synthesized from a pool of cholesterol different from that utilized in the biosynthesis of cholic acid. Incorporation of 18O in biliary cholesterol was less than 0.05 atom, indicating that the major part of this cholesterol is derived from a pool different from that utilized in bile acid biosynthesis.", "contents": "Preferential utilization of newly synthesized cholesterol as substrate for bile acid biosynthesis. An in vivo study using 18O2-inhalation technique. Incorporation of 18O in cholic anc chenodeoxycholic acid was determined after inhalation of 18O2 by rats with biliary fistula. After a 30-min inhalation, the maximal incorporation of 18O in the three hydroxyl groups of cholic acid was about 1.8 atoms, and in the two hydroxyl groups of chenodeoxycholic acid about 1.1 atoms. About 0.4 atom of 18O in the cholic and chenodeoxycholic acid isolated was present at C-3. It was calculated that at least 50% of the biosynthesized bile acids were derived from newly synthesized cholesterol. The time course for the incorporation of 18O at C-3 of chenodeoxycholic acid was slightly different from that of cholic acid, indicating that a small part of chenodeoxycholic acid might have been synthesized from a pool of cholesterol different from that utilized in the biosynthesis of cholic acid. Incorporation of 18O in biliary cholesterol was less than 0.05 atom, indicating that the major part of this cholesterol is derived from a pool different from that utilized in bile acid biosynthesis.", "PMID": 447646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8168", "title": "Degradation of uric acid to urea and glyoxylate in peroxisomes.", "content": "The distribution of enzymes involved in purine degradation in fish and crustaceous liver was examined by centrifugation in a sucrose density gradient. In mackerel, yellow mackerel, and prawn liver and mantis club hepatopancreas, uricase and allantoinase were located only in the peroxisomes and in the soluble fraction from broken peroxisomes, and allantoicase was located only in the peroxisomes. Uricase and allantoinase seem to be located in the peroxisomal matrix and allantoicase in the peroxisomal membrane. Adenase, guanase, and xanthine oxidase were present only in the soluble fraction of mackerel liver.", "contents": "Degradation of uric acid to urea and glyoxylate in peroxisomes. The distribution of enzymes involved in purine degradation in fish and crustaceous liver was examined by centrifugation in a sucrose density gradient. In mackerel, yellow mackerel, and prawn liver and mantis club hepatopancreas, uricase and allantoinase were located only in the peroxisomes and in the soluble fraction from broken peroxisomes, and allantoicase was located only in the peroxisomes. Uricase and allantoinase seem to be located in the peroxisomal matrix and allantoicase in the peroxisomal membrane. Adenase, guanase, and xanthine oxidase were present only in the soluble fraction of mackerel liver.", "PMID": 447647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8169", "title": "Susceptibility of a peptide derived from bradykinin to hydrolysis by brain endo-oligopeptidases and pancreatic proteinases.", "content": "The property of brain endopeptidases of attacking small biologically active polypeptides but not denatured proteins led us to compare them with pancreatic proteolytic enzymes with respect to hydrolysis of a synthetic peptide derived from bradykinin (Gly-Gly-Gly-Arg-bradykinin), free, bound to Affi-Gel 10, or bound to succinylated polylysine of 3,000 and 180,000 daltons, respectively. The data show that brain endopeptidases A and B only hydrolyze bradykinin in its free form, whereas trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase B hydrolyze the polypeptide both free and covalently bound to a high molecular weight carrier. These results suggest that brain endopeptidases selectively hydrolyze low molecular weight polypeptides.", "contents": "Susceptibility of a peptide derived from bradykinin to hydrolysis by brain endo-oligopeptidases and pancreatic proteinases. The property of brain endopeptidases of attacking small biologically active polypeptides but not denatured proteins led us to compare them with pancreatic proteolytic enzymes with respect to hydrolysis of a synthetic peptide derived from bradykinin (Gly-Gly-Gly-Arg-bradykinin), free, bound to Affi-Gel 10, or bound to succinylated polylysine of 3,000 and 180,000 daltons, respectively. The data show that brain endopeptidases A and B only hydrolyze bradykinin in its free form, whereas trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase B hydrolyze the polypeptide both free and covalently bound to a high molecular weight carrier. These results suggest that brain endopeptidases selectively hydrolyze low molecular weight polypeptides.", "PMID": 447650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8170", "title": "Characterization of the inactive fragment resulting from limited proteolysis of human alpha1-proteinase inhibitor by Crotalus adamanteus proteinase II.", "content": "The inactive 50,000-dalton fragment of human plasma alpha1-proteinase inhibitor resulting from limited proteolysis of the inhibitor by Crotalus adamanteus proteinase II has been isolated and partially characterized. The amino acid composition of the inactivated inhibitor indicates the loss of a peptide fragment from the intact inhibitor. Both intact and inactivated inhibitor contain COOH-terminal lysine. However, the NH2 terminus of the intact inhibitor is Glx, whereas that of inactivated inhibitor is methionine. NH2-terminal analysis of the inactive inhibitor fragment revealed the following sequence: -Met-Phe-Leu-Glu-Ala-Ile-Pro-Met-Ser-Ile-Pro-Pro-Gln-Val-Lys-Phe-Asn. The data show that the venom proteinase has inactivated alpha1- proteinase inhibitor by cleavage of a single bond which differs from that reported for trypsin or papain.", "contents": "Characterization of the inactive fragment resulting from limited proteolysis of human alpha1-proteinase inhibitor by Crotalus adamanteus proteinase II. The inactive 50,000-dalton fragment of human plasma alpha1-proteinase inhibitor resulting from limited proteolysis of the inhibitor by Crotalus adamanteus proteinase II has been isolated and partially characterized. The amino acid composition of the inactivated inhibitor indicates the loss of a peptide fragment from the intact inhibitor. Both intact and inactivated inhibitor contain COOH-terminal lysine. However, the NH2 terminus of the intact inhibitor is Glx, whereas that of inactivated inhibitor is methionine. NH2-terminal analysis of the inactive inhibitor fragment revealed the following sequence: -Met-Phe-Leu-Glu-Ala-Ile-Pro-Met-Ser-Ile-Pro-Pro-Gln-Val-Lys-Phe-Asn. The data show that the venom proteinase has inactivated alpha1- proteinase inhibitor by cleavage of a single bond which differs from that reported for trypsin or papain.", "PMID": 447652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8171", "title": "Purification and characterization of phiX174 gene A protein. A multifunctional enzyme of duplex DNA replication.", "content": "Synthesis of phiX174 viral (+) strand circles in vitro requires gene A protein, rep protein, DNA binding protein, and DNA polymerase III holoenzyme (Eisenberg, S., Scott, J. F., and Kornberg, A., (1976) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 73, 3151-3155). We have used this reaction as an assay to isolate gene A protein in greater than 90% purity. Its molecular weight under denaturing conditions is 59,000. The protein tends to aggregate and lose activity at low ionic strength. Tritium-labeled gene A protein cleaves the phiX174 duplex replicative form and is bound to it in a 1:1 ratio as part of an active replication complex. The attachment, at the 5' phosphoryl end of the cleavage point, is apparently covalent. The complex was not dissociated by: (i) banding in CsCl, (ii) treatment with 0.2 M NaOH, or (iii) boiling in 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate and electrophoresis on a sodium dodecyl sulfate-acrylamide gel; only micrococcal nuclease digestion of the DNA released the protein.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of phiX174 gene A protein. A multifunctional enzyme of duplex DNA replication. Synthesis of phiX174 viral (+) strand circles in vitro requires gene A protein, rep protein, DNA binding protein, and DNA polymerase III holoenzyme (Eisenberg, S., Scott, J. F., and Kornberg, A., (1976) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 73, 3151-3155). We have used this reaction as an assay to isolate gene A protein in greater than 90% purity. Its molecular weight under denaturing conditions is 59,000. The protein tends to aggregate and lose activity at low ionic strength. Tritium-labeled gene A protein cleaves the phiX174 duplex replicative form and is bound to it in a 1:1 ratio as part of an active replication complex. The attachment, at the 5' phosphoryl end of the cleavage point, is apparently covalent. The complex was not dissociated by: (i) banding in CsCl, (ii) treatment with 0.2 M NaOH, or (iii) boiling in 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate and electrophoresis on a sodium dodecyl sulfate-acrylamide gel; only micrococcal nuclease digestion of the DNA released the protein.", "PMID": 447653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8172", "title": "Disassembly and gross structure of particulate aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases from rat liver. Isolation and the structural relationship of synthetase complexes.", "content": "The major high molecular weight complex of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases is purified about 1000-fold with 30% yield from rat liver. The synthetase complex sediments at 24 S with a molecular weight of 900,000 +/- 75,000 and contains aminoacylation activities for lysine, arginine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, glutamine, glutamate, and proline. The 24 S synthetase complex dissociates into 21 S, 18 S, 13 S, 12 S, and 10 S complexes with specific enzymatic activities. Dissociation of the 24 S complex into active free synthetases is achieved by hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The disassembly of the synthetase complex is consistent with the structural model of a heterotypic multienzyme complex and suggests that the complex formation is due to the specific intermolecular interactions among the synthetases.", "contents": "Disassembly and gross structure of particulate aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases from rat liver. Isolation and the structural relationship of synthetase complexes. The major high molecular weight complex of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases is purified about 1000-fold with 30% yield from rat liver. The synthetase complex sediments at 24 S with a molecular weight of 900,000 +/- 75,000 and contains aminoacylation activities for lysine, arginine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, glutamine, glutamate, and proline. The 24 S synthetase complex dissociates into 21 S, 18 S, 13 S, 12 S, and 10 S complexes with specific enzymatic activities. Dissociation of the 24 S complex into active free synthetases is achieved by hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The disassembly of the synthetase complex is consistent with the structural model of a heterotypic multienzyme complex and suggests that the complex formation is due to the specific intermolecular interactions among the synthetases.", "PMID": 447654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8173", "title": "Polynucleotide block polymers consisting of a DNA.RNA hybrid joined to a DNA.DNA duplex. Synthesis and characterization of dGn.rCidCk duplexes.", "content": "The synthesis of several nucleic acid block polymers of the general type dGn.rCidCk is described. The key steps in this procedure were the joining of dCk oligomers, protected at the 3'-OH with an acetyl group, to rCi oligomers by T4 DNA ligase and the purification of the products by RPC-5 column chromatography. The block polymers were characterized by 20% polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, UV and CD spectra, analytical Cs2SO4 buoyant density analyses, helix-coil transitions and S1 nuclease studies. NMR studies on one member of this series, dGn.rC11dC16, were reported recently (Selsing, E., Wells, R.D., Early, T.A., and Kearns, D.R. (1978) Nature 275, 249-250). The NMR studies and the results described herein indicate that these block polymers are linear duplexes with two adjoining conformations yet are hydrogen-bonded and base-stacked throughout with minimal disruption of the helix at the junction of the two conformations. Computer model building studies described in the following paper (Selsing, E., Wells, R.D., Alden, C.J., and Arnott, S. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 5417-5422) predict that these nucleic acids contain a bend at the junction region.", "contents": "Polynucleotide block polymers consisting of a DNA.RNA hybrid joined to a DNA.DNA duplex. Synthesis and characterization of dGn.rCidCk duplexes. The synthesis of several nucleic acid block polymers of the general type dGn.rCidCk is described. The key steps in this procedure were the joining of dCk oligomers, protected at the 3'-OH with an acetyl group, to rCi oligomers by T4 DNA ligase and the purification of the products by RPC-5 column chromatography. The block polymers were characterized by 20% polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, UV and CD spectra, analytical Cs2SO4 buoyant density analyses, helix-coil transitions and S1 nuclease studies. NMR studies on one member of this series, dGn.rC11dC16, were reported recently (Selsing, E., Wells, R.D., Early, T.A., and Kearns, D.R. (1978) Nature 275, 249-250). The NMR studies and the results described herein indicate that these block polymers are linear duplexes with two adjoining conformations yet are hydrogen-bonded and base-stacked throughout with minimal disruption of the helix at the junction of the two conformations. Computer model building studies described in the following paper (Selsing, E., Wells, R.D., Alden, C.J., and Arnott, S. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 5417-5422) predict that these nucleic acids contain a bend at the junction region.", "PMID": 447659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8174", "title": "Bent DNA: visualization of a base-paired and stacked A-B conformational junction.", "content": "A model for the junction of contiguous DNA segments having A-DNA and B-DNA conformations is generated using a computerized linked-atom, least-squares model building program. The junction region comprises one base pair and the two neighboring internucleotide linkages and exhibits full hydrogen-bonded base-pairing, full base-stacking, and unexceptional stereochemistry. In addition, the junction has a mixed sugar ring pucker with the junction base pair adopting C2-endo and C3-endo furanose sugar rings in the complementary strands. Since the junction is fully base-stacked, the differences in base tilt between A-DNA and B-DNA result in a bend of 26 degrees in the duplex at the junction. The results of this study indicate: 1) a correlation of the B leads to A transition with several features of the initiation of RNA transcription, 2) possible structural roles of alternating AT and GC sequences in protein recognition, and 3) the possibility of dynamic conformational discontinuities in a DNA helix.", "contents": "Bent DNA: visualization of a base-paired and stacked A-B conformational junction. A model for the junction of contiguous DNA segments having A-DNA and B-DNA conformations is generated using a computerized linked-atom, least-squares model building program. The junction region comprises one base pair and the two neighboring internucleotide linkages and exhibits full hydrogen-bonded base-pairing, full base-stacking, and unexceptional stereochemistry. In addition, the junction has a mixed sugar ring pucker with the junction base pair adopting C2-endo and C3-endo furanose sugar rings in the complementary strands. Since the junction is fully base-stacked, the differences in base tilt between A-DNA and B-DNA result in a bend of 26 degrees in the duplex at the junction. The results of this study indicate: 1) a correlation of the B leads to A transition with several features of the initiation of RNA transcription, 2) possible structural roles of alternating AT and GC sequences in protein recognition, and 3) the possibility of dynamic conformational discontinuities in a DNA helix.", "PMID": 447660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8175", "title": "Resolution of rat mitochondrial matrix proteins by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.", "content": "The mitochondrial matrix subfractions from rat liver, kidney cortex, brain, heart, and skeletal muscle were isolated and their protein components were resolved by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, revealing between 120 and 150 components for each matrix subfraction. Excellent resolution was obtained utilizing a pH 5 to 8 gradient in the first dimension and in 8 to 13% exponential acrylamide gradient in the second dimension, increasing the number of mitochondrial matrix proteins observed 3-fold over one-dimensional systems. Protein components tentatively identified by co-migration with pure enzymes and by known tissue distributions are carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase (EC 2.7.2.5), ornithine transcarbamylase (EC 2.1.3.3), glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3), pyruvate carboxylase (EC 6.4.1.1), citrate synthase (EC 4.1.3.7), fumarase (EC 4.2.1.2), aconitase (EC 4.2.1.3), alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.2), dihydrolipoyl transsuccinylase (EC 2.3.1.12), lipoamide dehydrogenase (EC 1.6.4.3), glutamate-aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1), and the two subunits of pyruvate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.1). Protein components unambiguously identified by peptide mapping are citrate synthase, aconitase, and pyruvate carboxylase. The inner membrane subfraction from rat liver mitochondria was also resolved two dimensionally; the alpha and beta subunits of ATPase (F1) (EC 3.6.1.3) were identified by peptide mapping.", "contents": "Resolution of rat mitochondrial matrix proteins by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The mitochondrial matrix subfractions from rat liver, kidney cortex, brain, heart, and skeletal muscle were isolated and their protein components were resolved by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, revealing between 120 and 150 components for each matrix subfraction. Excellent resolution was obtained utilizing a pH 5 to 8 gradient in the first dimension and in 8 to 13% exponential acrylamide gradient in the second dimension, increasing the number of mitochondrial matrix proteins observed 3-fold over one-dimensional systems. Protein components tentatively identified by co-migration with pure enzymes and by known tissue distributions are carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase (EC 2.7.2.5), ornithine transcarbamylase (EC 2.1.3.3), glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3), pyruvate carboxylase (EC 6.4.1.1), citrate synthase (EC 4.1.3.7), fumarase (EC 4.2.1.2), aconitase (EC 4.2.1.3), alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.2), dihydrolipoyl transsuccinylase (EC 2.3.1.12), lipoamide dehydrogenase (EC 1.6.4.3), glutamate-aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1), and the two subunits of pyruvate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.1). Protein components unambiguously identified by peptide mapping are citrate synthase, aconitase, and pyruvate carboxylase. The inner membrane subfraction from rat liver mitochondria was also resolved two dimensionally; the alpha and beta subunits of ATPase (F1) (EC 3.6.1.3) were identified by peptide mapping.", "PMID": 447663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8176", "title": "Purification and characterization of branched chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase from bovine liver mitochondria.", "content": "Branched chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.3(4)) was solubilized and purified from bovine liver mitochondria for the first time. Decarboxylation of alpha-ketoisovalerate, alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate, and alpha-ketoisocaproate was catalyzed by this multienzyme complex and this activity was co-purified for each substrate. Three enzymatic functions were contained in the complex including decarboxylation of the above ketoacids, transacylation of their simple acid derivatives, and reduction of NAD+ as an overall reaction. Product stoichiometry of these three reactions was 1 CO2:1 acyl-CoA:1 NADH. Activity depended upon the addition of thiamin pyrophosphate, CoASH, and NAD+ which were dissociable cofactors. Physically, two active forms of the enzyme complex were found: a 275,000-dalton unit and a 2 x 10(6)-dalton component. Both showed a characteristic flavin spectra and catalyzed all functions of the complex, implying that 10 small units aggregated into the larger unit. The soluble complex as visualized by electron microscopy had a diameter ranging from 12 to 24 nm corresponding to a molecular weight of 2 x 10(6). The size of the native membrane-bound component remains to be determined.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of branched chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase from bovine liver mitochondria. Branched chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.3(4)) was solubilized and purified from bovine liver mitochondria for the first time. Decarboxylation of alpha-ketoisovalerate, alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate, and alpha-ketoisocaproate was catalyzed by this multienzyme complex and this activity was co-purified for each substrate. Three enzymatic functions were contained in the complex including decarboxylation of the above ketoacids, transacylation of their simple acid derivatives, and reduction of NAD+ as an overall reaction. Product stoichiometry of these three reactions was 1 CO2:1 acyl-CoA:1 NADH. Activity depended upon the addition of thiamin pyrophosphate, CoASH, and NAD+ which were dissociable cofactors. Physically, two active forms of the enzyme complex were found: a 275,000-dalton unit and a 2 x 10(6)-dalton component. Both showed a characteristic flavin spectra and catalyzed all functions of the complex, implying that 10 small units aggregated into the larger unit. The soluble complex as visualized by electron microscopy had a diameter ranging from 12 to 24 nm corresponding to a molecular weight of 2 x 10(6). The size of the native membrane-bound component remains to be determined.", "PMID": 447664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8177", "title": "Preferential affinity of high molecular weight high mobility group non-histone chromatin proteins for single-stranded DNA.", "content": "We have subjected proteins dissociated from chicken erythrocyte or calf thymus chromatin by 0.35 M NaCl to sequential chromatography on columns containing immobilized double-stranded DNA and single-stranded DNA. At 0.2 M NaCl, 1 mM Tris . Cl (pH 7.5), the high molecular weight, high mobility group proteins (HMG-1, HMG-2, and HMG-E), were not retained by double-stranded DNA columns, but were retained by single-stranded DNA columns. Thus, in that solvent, those proteins exhibit selective affinity for single-stranded DNA. This suggests that the functions of the high molecular weight, high mobility group proteins might involve destabilizing the DNA double helix by virtue of their preferential affinity for single-stranded DNA.", "contents": "Preferential affinity of high molecular weight high mobility group non-histone chromatin proteins for single-stranded DNA. We have subjected proteins dissociated from chicken erythrocyte or calf thymus chromatin by 0.35 M NaCl to sequential chromatography on columns containing immobilized double-stranded DNA and single-stranded DNA. At 0.2 M NaCl, 1 mM Tris . Cl (pH 7.5), the high molecular weight, high mobility group proteins (HMG-1, HMG-2, and HMG-E), were not retained by double-stranded DNA columns, but were retained by single-stranded DNA columns. Thus, in that solvent, those proteins exhibit selective affinity for single-stranded DNA. This suggests that the functions of the high molecular weight, high mobility group proteins might involve destabilizing the DNA double helix by virtue of their preferential affinity for single-stranded DNA.", "PMID": 447665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8178", "title": "Studies on the oxidation of isobutyrylcarnitine by beef and rat liver mitochondria.", "content": "Mitochondria from beef liver oxidize isobutyrylcarnitine at approximately 50% the rate of succinate in the presence of rotenone. However, the oxidation rate of isobutyryl coenzyme A in the presence of l(-)-carnitine is very low and can be negligible in both rat and beef liver mitochondria. The limited stimulation of isobutyryl-CoA oxidation by l(-)-carnitine appears to be due to inhibition of isobutyrylcarnitine translocation rather than lack of formation of isobutyrylcarnitine. This conclusion is supported by the fact that: 1) isobutyrylcarnitine oxidation is inhibited by l(-)-carnitine; 2) some oxidation of isobutyryl-CoA is obtained when a low concentration (50 microM) of l(-)-carnitine is used; and 3) under conditions of high isobutyryl-coenzyme A and l(-)-carnitine concentrations (1 mM), isobutyryl-carnitine is produced in near theoretical amounts by these rat liver mitochondria. Other studies demonstrated that less than 25% of the carnitine isobutyryl transferase activity of beef liver mitochondria and rat liver mitochondria is located on the cytosol side of the acylcoenzyme A barrier of these mitochondria.", "contents": "Studies on the oxidation of isobutyrylcarnitine by beef and rat liver mitochondria. Mitochondria from beef liver oxidize isobutyrylcarnitine at approximately 50% the rate of succinate in the presence of rotenone. However, the oxidation rate of isobutyryl coenzyme A in the presence of l(-)-carnitine is very low and can be negligible in both rat and beef liver mitochondria. The limited stimulation of isobutyryl-CoA oxidation by l(-)-carnitine appears to be due to inhibition of isobutyrylcarnitine translocation rather than lack of formation of isobutyrylcarnitine. This conclusion is supported by the fact that: 1) isobutyrylcarnitine oxidation is inhibited by l(-)-carnitine; 2) some oxidation of isobutyryl-CoA is obtained when a low concentration (50 microM) of l(-)-carnitine is used; and 3) under conditions of high isobutyryl-coenzyme A and l(-)-carnitine concentrations (1 mM), isobutyryl-carnitine is produced in near theoretical amounts by these rat liver mitochondria. Other studies demonstrated that less than 25% of the carnitine isobutyryl transferase activity of beef liver mitochondria and rat liver mitochondria is located on the cytosol side of the acylcoenzyme A barrier of these mitochondria.", "PMID": 447666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8179", "title": "Enhancement of hormonal stimulation in intact cells. Potentiation of GTP-dependent activation of adenylate cyclase.", "content": "The ability of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and cholera toxin to increase cyclic AMP levels is potentiated 6-fold when normal rat kidney (NRK) cells are treated with picolinic acid or histidinol, or grown in isoleucine-deficient medium. The response to (-)-isoproterenol is increased 2-fold in NRK cells treated with picolinic acid but not in cells subjected to isoleucine deprivation. The increase in agonist responsiveness is time-dependent, reaches its maximum at 40 h, and is quickly reversed following removal of picolinic acid or addition of medium with normal amounts of isoleucine. The cholera toxin response is also increased about 7-fold in simian virus 40-transformed NRK cells and Moloney sarcoma virus-transformed NRK cells treated with picolinic acid. GTP-stimulated, but not fluoride-stimulated, adenylate cyclase activities are increased in membranes from NRK cells treated with picolinic acid or starved for isoleucine, indicating that the increased response is due, at least in part, to a specific potentiation of GTP-dependent functions of the adenylate cyclase system. The results demonstrate that GTP-dependent events in hormonal stimulation of adenylate cyclase can be altered in intact cells to modulate hormonal enhancement of cyclic AMP production.", "contents": "Enhancement of hormonal stimulation in intact cells. Potentiation of GTP-dependent activation of adenylate cyclase. The ability of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and cholera toxin to increase cyclic AMP levels is potentiated 6-fold when normal rat kidney (NRK) cells are treated with picolinic acid or histidinol, or grown in isoleucine-deficient medium. The response to (-)-isoproterenol is increased 2-fold in NRK cells treated with picolinic acid but not in cells subjected to isoleucine deprivation. The increase in agonist responsiveness is time-dependent, reaches its maximum at 40 h, and is quickly reversed following removal of picolinic acid or addition of medium with normal amounts of isoleucine. The cholera toxin response is also increased about 7-fold in simian virus 40-transformed NRK cells and Moloney sarcoma virus-transformed NRK cells treated with picolinic acid. GTP-stimulated, but not fluoride-stimulated, adenylate cyclase activities are increased in membranes from NRK cells treated with picolinic acid or starved for isoleucine, indicating that the increased response is due, at least in part, to a specific potentiation of GTP-dependent functions of the adenylate cyclase system. The results demonstrate that GTP-dependent events in hormonal stimulation of adenylate cyclase can be altered in intact cells to modulate hormonal enhancement of cyclic AMP production.", "PMID": 447667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8180", "title": "Isomerization of the muscarinic receptor . antagonist complex.", "content": "The mechanism of binding of two antagonists, 3-quinuclidinyl benzilate and N-methyl-4-piperidinyl benzilate, to the muscarinic receptor was studied. The pseudo-first order rate constant of association showed a hyperbolic dependence on the concentration of the antagonist(s) indicating that the interaction involves two equilibria. The first binding equilibrium is reached rapidly and is characterized by dissociation constants 2.7 +/- 0.4 nM and 6.7 +/- 2.5 nM in phosphate buffer (0.05 M, pH = 7.4) for 3-quinuclidinyl benzilate and N-methyl-4-piperidinyl benzilate, respectively. The first binding equilibrium is followed by a slower isomerization step of the receptor . antagonist complex. The equilibrium constants for the isomerization step of the complex for both ligands were about 0.15. The overall constant of binding obtained as the product of the above constants shows good agreement with the results of equilibrium binding studies.", "contents": "Isomerization of the muscarinic receptor . antagonist complex. The mechanism of binding of two antagonists, 3-quinuclidinyl benzilate and N-methyl-4-piperidinyl benzilate, to the muscarinic receptor was studied. The pseudo-first order rate constant of association showed a hyperbolic dependence on the concentration of the antagonist(s) indicating that the interaction involves two equilibria. The first binding equilibrium is reached rapidly and is characterized by dissociation constants 2.7 +/- 0.4 nM and 6.7 +/- 2.5 nM in phosphate buffer (0.05 M, pH = 7.4) for 3-quinuclidinyl benzilate and N-methyl-4-piperidinyl benzilate, respectively. The first binding equilibrium is followed by a slower isomerization step of the receptor . antagonist complex. The equilibrium constants for the isomerization step of the complex for both ligands were about 0.15. The overall constant of binding obtained as the product of the above constants shows good agreement with the results of equilibrium binding studies.", "PMID": 447668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8181", "title": "Evidence for the existence of discrete activator and substrate sites for CO2 on ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase.", "content": "When incubated with CO2 and Mg2+, ribulose-1,5-bis-phosphate carboxylase forms a ternary complex of enzyme . CO2 . Mg. This complex was prepared using high specific activity [14C]O2 and injected into a solution containing a large (50- to 112-fold) molar excess of [12C]O2 and sufficient ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate to permit the catalytic site to turn over several times. The enzyme was then rapidly separated from the other components by gel filtration and its radiospecific activity was determined to be 30 to 60 times that of the medium. If the CO2 activator and the CO2 substrate sites were one and the same, then, following turnover, the enzyme should have been in isotopic equilibrium with the medium. The finding that this was not the case, by a factor of about 40, indicates that the CO2 activator site is physically distinct from the CO2 substrate site.", "contents": "Evidence for the existence of discrete activator and substrate sites for CO2 on ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase. When incubated with CO2 and Mg2+, ribulose-1,5-bis-phosphate carboxylase forms a ternary complex of enzyme . CO2 . Mg. This complex was prepared using high specific activity [14C]O2 and injected into a solution containing a large (50- to 112-fold) molar excess of [12C]O2 and sufficient ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate to permit the catalytic site to turn over several times. The enzyme was then rapidly separated from the other components by gel filtration and its radiospecific activity was determined to be 30 to 60 times that of the medium. If the CO2 activator and the CO2 substrate sites were one and the same, then, following turnover, the enzyme should have been in isotopic equilibrium with the medium. The finding that this was not the case, by a factor of about 40, indicates that the CO2 activator site is physically distinct from the CO2 substrate site.", "PMID": 447669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8182", "title": "The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III.", "content": "The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III has been studied. Fragment 2 was found to slow the rate of inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III about 3-fold. The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on antithrombin III inhibition was examined by comparing its action in the presence of either thrombin or meizothrombin (des fragment 1). The second order rate constants for antithrombin III inhibition of thrombin with saturating fragment 2 and antithrombin III inhibition of meizothrombin (des fragment 1) were the same. Prothrombin fragment 2 had no effect on either antithrombin III inhibition of meizothrombin (des fragment 1) or Factor Xa. The effect of the fragment on the reaction mechanism of thrombin inhibition was evaluated to see if the fragment altered binding of antithrombin III to thrombin or inhibited the formation of the covalent complex. The fragment was found to have no inhibitory effect on the rate of covalent complex formation, indicating that the protective effect of the fragment is by inhibiting binding of antithrombin III to thrombin. These data suggest that prothrombin fragment 2 may be an important factor in controlling the localization of clot formation by regulating the interaction between thrombin and antithrombin III.", "contents": "The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III. The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on the inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III has been studied. Fragment 2 was found to slow the rate of inhibition of thrombin by antithrombin III about 3-fold. The effect of prothrombin fragment 2 on antithrombin III inhibition was examined by comparing its action in the presence of either thrombin or meizothrombin (des fragment 1). The second order rate constants for antithrombin III inhibition of thrombin with saturating fragment 2 and antithrombin III inhibition of meizothrombin (des fragment 1) were the same. Prothrombin fragment 2 had no effect on either antithrombin III inhibition of meizothrombin (des fragment 1) or Factor Xa. The effect of the fragment on the reaction mechanism of thrombin inhibition was evaluated to see if the fragment altered binding of antithrombin III to thrombin or inhibited the formation of the covalent complex. The fragment was found to have no inhibitory effect on the rate of covalent complex formation, indicating that the protective effect of the fragment is by inhibiting binding of antithrombin III to thrombin. These data suggest that prothrombin fragment 2 may be an important factor in controlling the localization of clot formation by regulating the interaction between thrombin and antithrombin III.", "PMID": 447671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8183", "title": "Purification of proline-rich proteins from parotid glands of isoproterenol-treated rats.", "content": "Prolonged isoproterenol treatment of rats is known to cause hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the parotid glands. Our results show that a dramatic increase in the synthesis or accumulation in the parotid glands of a series of proteins rich in proline also occurs with isoproterenol treatment. After 10 days of treatment (5 mg of isoproterenol/day) these proline-rich proteins (PRPs) comprise more than 50% of the total soluble proteins in parotid gland homogenates. The PRPs are rapidly labeled in vivo by a single intraperitoneal injection of [3H]proline with maximum incorporation occurring at about 3. More than 90% of the [3h]proline found in parotid gland homogenates is incorporated into PRPs with less than 1% of the radioactivity in alpha-amylase. Tritium incorporated into PRPs was isolated as [3H]proline after acid hydrolysis. One acidic and six basic 3H-labeled PRPs were isolated from the 100,000 x g supernatant fraction of parotid gland homogenates by Sephadex G-100 and ion exchange chromatography. The six basic proteins accounted for about 90% of the total PRPs isolated.", "contents": "Purification of proline-rich proteins from parotid glands of isoproterenol-treated rats. Prolonged isoproterenol treatment of rats is known to cause hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the parotid glands. Our results show that a dramatic increase in the synthesis or accumulation in the parotid glands of a series of proteins rich in proline also occurs with isoproterenol treatment. After 10 days of treatment (5 mg of isoproterenol/day) these proline-rich proteins (PRPs) comprise more than 50% of the total soluble proteins in parotid gland homogenates. The PRPs are rapidly labeled in vivo by a single intraperitoneal injection of [3H]proline with maximum incorporation occurring at about 3. More than 90% of the [3h]proline found in parotid gland homogenates is incorporated into PRPs with less than 1% of the radioactivity in alpha-amylase. Tritium incorporated into PRPs was isolated as [3H]proline after acid hydrolysis. One acidic and six basic 3H-labeled PRPs were isolated from the 100,000 x g supernatant fraction of parotid gland homogenates by Sephadex G-100 and ion exchange chromatography. The six basic proteins accounted for about 90% of the total PRPs isolated.", "PMID": 447672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8184", "title": "Genetic regulation of coumarin hydroxylase activity in mice. Biochemical characterization of the enzyme from two inbred strains and their F1 hybrid.", "content": "Hydroxylation of coumarin to 7-hydroxycoumarin by liver microsomes from control or phenobarbital-pretreated mice is 5- to 10-fold higher in the DBA/2J strain compared to the AKR/J strain, while activities of nine other cytochrome P-450 mediated oxidations show only minor differences. Mixing experiments with whole liver homogenates and subcellular fractionations do not reveal the presence of enzyme activators or inhibitors or competing enzyme reactions in either strain. Comparisons of pH optima (pH 7.6), heat stability at 52 degrees C (6 to 8 min for 50% inactivation), and Km values (0.45 to 0.50 microM coumarin) for coumarin hydroxylase show no significant differences in the two strains of mice or their F1 hybrid. Similarly, only minor differences in inhibition of coumarin hydroxylase by carbon monoxide, SKF-525A, menadione, and several other inhibitors of microsomal mixed function oxidase reactions are observed in the two strains. In contrast to these data, aniline and metyrapone, two compounds which bind to the heme iron of cytochrome P-450 to form ferrihemochromes, show differential and opposite patterns of inhibition of enzyme activity in the DBA/2J and AKR/J mouse strains. This latter observation suggests that a structurally different cytochrome P-450 may hydroxylate coumarin in these two inbred mouse strains.", "contents": "Genetic regulation of coumarin hydroxylase activity in mice. Biochemical characterization of the enzyme from two inbred strains and their F1 hybrid. Hydroxylation of coumarin to 7-hydroxycoumarin by liver microsomes from control or phenobarbital-pretreated mice is 5- to 10-fold higher in the DBA/2J strain compared to the AKR/J strain, while activities of nine other cytochrome P-450 mediated oxidations show only minor differences. Mixing experiments with whole liver homogenates and subcellular fractionations do not reveal the presence of enzyme activators or inhibitors or competing enzyme reactions in either strain. Comparisons of pH optima (pH 7.6), heat stability at 52 degrees C (6 to 8 min for 50% inactivation), and Km values (0.45 to 0.50 microM coumarin) for coumarin hydroxylase show no significant differences in the two strains of mice or their F1 hybrid. Similarly, only minor differences in inhibition of coumarin hydroxylase by carbon monoxide, SKF-525A, menadione, and several other inhibitors of microsomal mixed function oxidase reactions are observed in the two strains. In contrast to these data, aniline and metyrapone, two compounds which bind to the heme iron of cytochrome P-450 to form ferrihemochromes, show differential and opposite patterns of inhibition of enzyme activity in the DBA/2J and AKR/J mouse strains. This latter observation suggests that a structurally different cytochrome P-450 may hydroxylate coumarin in these two inbred mouse strains.", "PMID": 447674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8185", "title": "Concanavalin A inhibition of alpha-bungarotoxin binding to a nonfusing muscle cell line.", "content": "Incubation of a nonfusing muscle cell line, BC3H1, with concanavalin A (Con A) results in a maximum decrease of 35% in the cell's ability to bind alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BuTx). The Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding is reversible and the degree of inhibition parallels the degree of saturation of Con A binding sites on the cell surface. The maximum level of Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding is not affected by increasing the time of incubation in Con A, using higher concentrations of Con A or by increasing the time of incubation in the presence of 125I-alpha-BuTx. In addition, all BC3H1 cells in culture are sensitive to the Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding. A comparison of the pseudo-first order rate constants for 125I-alpha-BuTx binding to untreated (8.6 x 10(4) M-1 S-1) and Con A-treated (5.4 x 10(4) M-1 S-1) BC3H1 cells, however, shows that those acetylcholine receptors in Con A-treated cells which bind 125I-alpha-BuTx do so with a lowered apparent affinity. Partial inhibition of toxin-binding capacity is not a consequence of two classes of acetylcholine receptors on the cell surface. Furthermore, individual receptors experience partial inhibition of their binding capacity by Con A, resulting in receptors with at least one binding site blocked and at least one site available for alpha-BuTx binding.", "contents": "Concanavalin A inhibition of alpha-bungarotoxin binding to a nonfusing muscle cell line. Incubation of a nonfusing muscle cell line, BC3H1, with concanavalin A (Con A) results in a maximum decrease of 35% in the cell's ability to bind alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BuTx). The Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding is reversible and the degree of inhibition parallels the degree of saturation of Con A binding sites on the cell surface. The maximum level of Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding is not affected by increasing the time of incubation in Con A, using higher concentrations of Con A or by increasing the time of incubation in the presence of 125I-alpha-BuTx. In addition, all BC3H1 cells in culture are sensitive to the Con A-induced inhibition of 125I-alpha-BuTx binding. A comparison of the pseudo-first order rate constants for 125I-alpha-BuTx binding to untreated (8.6 x 10(4) M-1 S-1) and Con A-treated (5.4 x 10(4) M-1 S-1) BC3H1 cells, however, shows that those acetylcholine receptors in Con A-treated cells which bind 125I-alpha-BuTx do so with a lowered apparent affinity. Partial inhibition of toxin-binding capacity is not a consequence of two classes of acetylcholine receptors on the cell surface. Furthermore, individual receptors experience partial inhibition of their binding capacity by Con A, resulting in receptors with at least one binding site blocked and at least one site available for alpha-BuTx binding.", "PMID": 447676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8186", "title": "Phenol sulfotransferases.", "content": "Two phenol sulfotransferases have been purified from rat liver by conventional techniques coupled with affinity chromatography on Affi-Gel blue and ATP-agarose. Both enzymes are homogeneous by the criterion of sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis. Each enzyme has a molecular weight of approximately 65,000 and consists of two subunits of apparently equal size. The enzymes are also similar in specificity and in their kinetic parameters but differ in amino acid composition and in their elution from DEAE-cellulose. With adenosine 3'-phosphate 5'-phosphosulfate as donor, a large variety of phenolic compounds serve as sulfate acceptor; sterols, simple alcohols, bile acids, and hydroxamates do not serve as substrates. The transferases may be considered as detoxification enzymes which catalyze the conjugation of xenobiotics containing a phenol group or of phenolic compounds generated by endogenous oxidation. The enzymes act on 3-hydroxyindole to yield indican, suggesting that their in vivo function may include the production of this normal tryptophan metabolite.", "contents": "Phenol sulfotransferases. Two phenol sulfotransferases have been purified from rat liver by conventional techniques coupled with affinity chromatography on Affi-Gel blue and ATP-agarose. Both enzymes are homogeneous by the criterion of sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis. Each enzyme has a molecular weight of approximately 65,000 and consists of two subunits of apparently equal size. The enzymes are also similar in specificity and in their kinetic parameters but differ in amino acid composition and in their elution from DEAE-cellulose. With adenosine 3'-phosphate 5'-phosphosulfate as donor, a large variety of phenolic compounds serve as sulfate acceptor; sterols, simple alcohols, bile acids, and hydroxamates do not serve as substrates. The transferases may be considered as detoxification enzymes which catalyze the conjugation of xenobiotics containing a phenol group or of phenolic compounds generated by endogenous oxidation. The enzymes act on 3-hydroxyindole to yield indican, suggesting that their in vivo function may include the production of this normal tryptophan metabolite.", "PMID": 447677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8187", "title": "The conformation of the chromatin core particle is ionic strength-dependent.", "content": "We have examined the susceptibilities of the histones within the HeLa chromatin core particle to covalent modification by a diol-epoxide derivative of the carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon benzo(a)-pyrene. Core-particle histones exhibit substantial variation in their relative susceptibilities to modification, depending upon the ionic strength of the environment. In contrast, the relative susceptibilities of either purified histones or histones in urea-denatured core particles are insensitive to changes in ionic strength. The variations in the pattern of modification of core particle histones occur primarily at ionic strengths at which the histones remain associated with core-particle DNA (0 to 0.6 M NaCl). Non-histone proteins influence the ionic strength-dependent variations in histone modification. The results imply that the ionic strength of the environment affects the conformation of the core particle and that the nucleoprotein has a flexible structure.", "contents": "The conformation of the chromatin core particle is ionic strength-dependent. We have examined the susceptibilities of the histones within the HeLa chromatin core particle to covalent modification by a diol-epoxide derivative of the carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon benzo(a)-pyrene. Core-particle histones exhibit substantial variation in their relative susceptibilities to modification, depending upon the ionic strength of the environment. In contrast, the relative susceptibilities of either purified histones or histones in urea-denatured core particles are insensitive to changes in ionic strength. The variations in the pattern of modification of core particle histones occur primarily at ionic strengths at which the histones remain associated with core-particle DNA (0 to 0.6 M NaCl). Non-histone proteins influence the ionic strength-dependent variations in histone modification. The results imply that the ionic strength of the environment affects the conformation of the core particle and that the nucleoprotein has a flexible structure.", "PMID": 447678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8188", "title": "Structures of the homologous series of monoalkene mycolic acids from Mycobacterium smegmatis.", "content": "The positions of localization of the single carbon-carbon double bond in homologs of C series mycolic acids from Mycobacterium smegmatis have been established by 1) combined ammonia chemical ionization mass spectrometry/gas-liquid chromatography of aldehyde ozonolysis products, and 2) high resolution electron impact mass spectral analysis of vicinal glycol derivatives as their trimethylsilyl ethers. These studies have revealed that each homolog is a mixture of two isomers differing in double bond location. In each of the three homologs examined, approximately equal amounts of two isomers were present as follows: (formula: see text).", "contents": "Structures of the homologous series of monoalkene mycolic acids from Mycobacterium smegmatis. The positions of localization of the single carbon-carbon double bond in homologs of C series mycolic acids from Mycobacterium smegmatis have been established by 1) combined ammonia chemical ionization mass spectrometry/gas-liquid chromatography of aldehyde ozonolysis products, and 2) high resolution electron impact mass spectral analysis of vicinal glycol derivatives as their trimethylsilyl ethers. These studies have revealed that each homolog is a mixture of two isomers differing in double bond location. In each of the three homologs examined, approximately equal amounts of two isomers were present as follows: (formula: see text).", "PMID": 447681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8189", "title": "Enzymic activity of cholera toxin. I. New method of assay and the mechanism of ADP-ribosyl transfer.", "content": "We tested various methods of assaying the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity of cholera toxin using artificial acceptors of the ADP-ribosyl group. Any of several proteins or poly(L-arginine) could be used with [adenine-14C]NAD+ as ADP-ribosyl donor, but this method was not ideal because of the heterogeneity of potential acceptor groups and the necessity of using costly labeled NAD+. We, therefore, developed an alternative assay using a synthetic low molecular weight acceptor, 125I-N-guanyltyramine (125I-GT). 125I-GT was specifically ADP-ribosylated by thiol-treated cholera toxin or its A1 peptide in the presence of beta-NAD. ADP-ribosyl-125I-GT was quantified after separation from unreacted 125I-GT by batch absorption of the latter to cation exchange resins. Analysis of the kinetics of ADP-ribosylation of 125I-GT indicated that the reaction proceeds by a sequential rather than a ping-pong mechanism. The Km values for NAD+ and 125I-GT were 3.6 mM and 44 microM, respectively. L-Arginine was a competitive inhibitor of 125I-GT (KI = 75 mM), but was at least 1000-fold less active than 125I-GT as an ADP-ribose acceptor.", "contents": "Enzymic activity of cholera toxin. I. New method of assay and the mechanism of ADP-ribosyl transfer. We tested various methods of assaying the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity of cholera toxin using artificial acceptors of the ADP-ribosyl group. Any of several proteins or poly(L-arginine) could be used with [adenine-14C]NAD+ as ADP-ribosyl donor, but this method was not ideal because of the heterogeneity of potential acceptor groups and the necessity of using costly labeled NAD+. We, therefore, developed an alternative assay using a synthetic low molecular weight acceptor, 125I-N-guanyltyramine (125I-GT). 125I-GT was specifically ADP-ribosylated by thiol-treated cholera toxin or its A1 peptide in the presence of beta-NAD. ADP-ribosyl-125I-GT was quantified after separation from unreacted 125I-GT by batch absorption of the latter to cation exchange resins. Analysis of the kinetics of ADP-ribosylation of 125I-GT indicated that the reaction proceeds by a sequential rather than a ping-pong mechanism. The Km values for NAD+ and 125I-GT were 3.6 mM and 44 microM, respectively. L-Arginine was a competitive inhibitor of 125I-GT (KI = 75 mM), but was at least 1000-fold less active than 125I-GT as an ADP-ribose acceptor.", "PMID": 447682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8190", "title": "Interaction of the chiral pyruvate analog, 2-keto-3-bromobutyrate, with pyruvate lyases. 2-Keto-3-deoxygluconate-6-phosphate aldolase of Pseudomonas putida.", "content": "The enzyme 2-keto-3-deoxygluconate-6-P aldolase of Pseudomonas putida is inactivated by one of the chiral forms of 2-keto-(3RS)-3-bromobutyric acid (bromoketobutyrate). The inactivation shows saturation kinetics and competition with pyruvate. The minimal inactivation half-time is 4 min and that concentration of bromoketobutyrate half-saturating the enzyme is 2 mM. (3RS)-[3-3H]bromoketobutyrate is catalytically detritiated during enzyme inactivation. A kinetic analysis of rates gave data consistent with both catalysis and inactivation occurring at a single protein site, the catalytic site. The enzyme only detritiates one of the two optical isomers of bromoketobutyrate, and that form which is detritiated also alkylates the catalytic site. The inactive isomer of reagent degrades, with inversion, to L-lactate so that the chiral form specific for the enzyme is 2-keto-(3S)-3-bromobutyrate. Thus, as is the case with bromopyruvate, the enzyme catalyzes protonation of the re face at C-3 of the enzyme-reagent eneamine. As a result, bromoketobutyrate could serve as a chiral probe for stereochemical constraints of selected pyruvate-specific lyase active sites.", "contents": "Interaction of the chiral pyruvate analog, 2-keto-3-bromobutyrate, with pyruvate lyases. 2-Keto-3-deoxygluconate-6-phosphate aldolase of Pseudomonas putida. The enzyme 2-keto-3-deoxygluconate-6-P aldolase of Pseudomonas putida is inactivated by one of the chiral forms of 2-keto-(3RS)-3-bromobutyric acid (bromoketobutyrate). The inactivation shows saturation kinetics and competition with pyruvate. The minimal inactivation half-time is 4 min and that concentration of bromoketobutyrate half-saturating the enzyme is 2 mM. (3RS)-[3-3H]bromoketobutyrate is catalytically detritiated during enzyme inactivation. A kinetic analysis of rates gave data consistent with both catalysis and inactivation occurring at a single protein site, the catalytic site. The enzyme only detritiates one of the two optical isomers of bromoketobutyrate, and that form which is detritiated also alkylates the catalytic site. The inactive isomer of reagent degrades, with inversion, to L-lactate so that the chiral form specific for the enzyme is 2-keto-(3S)-3-bromobutyrate. Thus, as is the case with bromopyruvate, the enzyme catalyzes protonation of the re face at C-3 of the enzyme-reagent eneamine. As a result, bromoketobutyrate could serve as a chiral probe for stereochemical constraints of selected pyruvate-specific lyase active sites.", "PMID": 447683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8191", "title": "Inhibition of ribose-5-phosphate isomerase by 4-phosphoerythronate.", "content": "Hoping to exploit the special affinity of enzymes for unstable intermediates in substrate transformation, we have determined the effectiveness of possible analogs of ene-diolate intermediates as inhibitors of spinach ribose-5-phosphate isomerase. 4-Phosphoerythronic acid was found to be a very strong competitive inhibitor, with a Ki value almost 3 orders of magnitude lower than the Km value of ribose 5-phosphate, and very much lower than the Ki value of any other inhibitor that was examined.", "contents": "Inhibition of ribose-5-phosphate isomerase by 4-phosphoerythronate. Hoping to exploit the special affinity of enzymes for unstable intermediates in substrate transformation, we have determined the effectiveness of possible analogs of ene-diolate intermediates as inhibitors of spinach ribose-5-phosphate isomerase. 4-Phosphoerythronic acid was found to be a very strong competitive inhibitor, with a Ki value almost 3 orders of magnitude lower than the Km value of ribose 5-phosphate, and very much lower than the Ki value of any other inhibitor that was examined.", "PMID": 447684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8192", "title": "A Raman spectroscopic study of the interaction of divalent metal ions with adenine moiety of adenosine 5'-triphosphate.", "content": "Raman spectra of ATP at various pH values are affected by addition of equimolar solution of divalent metal ions such as Ca2+, Mg2+, Co2+, Cu2+, and Hg2+. The changes in frequency and intensity have been used to construct models describing the nature of metal-adenine and metal-triphosphate interactions under different conditions. The metal ions are found to co-ordinate the triphosphate group in the entire pH range studies (pH to 12). Calcium (II) and magnesium (II) interact strongly with the phosphate moiety at neutral pH, although a weak interaction with the ring occur at low pH values. Around neutrality, several Raman spectral changes are observed to implicate the interaction of cobalt (II) ion with the five-membered ring of the adenine. The changes in Raman frequency are too small to suggest a direct Co(II)-N7 binding. At least six different Cu(II)-ATP species are identified between pH 3 and 12. At pH approximately 7.0 Raman data are explained better by Cu(II) interacting with N7 simultaneously with the amino group of the adenine ring. However, a Cu(II) binding to N3 at pH 10 to 11 is indicated by the enhancement of the 760 and 1360 cm-1 vibrations. At neutral pH, mercury (II) ion shows a direct coordination at N1 while at low pH with N1 blocked by protonation, mercury (II) does not interact with the adenine moiety.", "contents": "A Raman spectroscopic study of the interaction of divalent metal ions with adenine moiety of adenosine 5'-triphosphate. Raman spectra of ATP at various pH values are affected by addition of equimolar solution of divalent metal ions such as Ca2+, Mg2+, Co2+, Cu2+, and Hg2+. The changes in frequency and intensity have been used to construct models describing the nature of metal-adenine and metal-triphosphate interactions under different conditions. The metal ions are found to co-ordinate the triphosphate group in the entire pH range studies (pH to 12). Calcium (II) and magnesium (II) interact strongly with the phosphate moiety at neutral pH, although a weak interaction with the ring occur at low pH values. Around neutrality, several Raman spectral changes are observed to implicate the interaction of cobalt (II) ion with the five-membered ring of the adenine. The changes in Raman frequency are too small to suggest a direct Co(II)-N7 binding. At least six different Cu(II)-ATP species are identified between pH 3 and 12. At pH approximately 7.0 Raman data are explained better by Cu(II) interacting with N7 simultaneously with the amino group of the adenine ring. However, a Cu(II) binding to N3 at pH 10 to 11 is indicated by the enhancement of the 760 and 1360 cm-1 vibrations. At neutral pH, mercury (II) ion shows a direct coordination at N1 while at low pH with N1 blocked by protonation, mercury (II) does not interact with the adenine moiety.", "PMID": 447685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8193", "title": "Purification and subunit structure of propionyl coenzyme A carboxylase of Mycobacterium smegmatis.", "content": "Propionyl-CoA carboxylase (EC 6.4.1.3) has been purified from Mycobacterium smegmatis. It has a molecular weight of about 500,000. On sodium dodecyl sulfate gels it dissociates into two subunits with molecular weights of 64,000 and 57,000. There are 3.8 mol of biotin/500,000 g of protein. The biotin is associated entirely with the heavier subunit. The enzyme also used acetyl-CoA as a substrate. No other acetyl-CoA carboxylase could be detected in this organism.", "contents": "Purification and subunit structure of propionyl coenzyme A carboxylase of Mycobacterium smegmatis. Propionyl-CoA carboxylase (EC 6.4.1.3) has been purified from Mycobacterium smegmatis. It has a molecular weight of about 500,000. On sodium dodecyl sulfate gels it dissociates into two subunits with molecular weights of 64,000 and 57,000. There are 3.8 mol of biotin/500,000 g of protein. The biotin is associated entirely with the heavier subunit. The enzyme also used acetyl-CoA as a substrate. No other acetyl-CoA carboxylase could be detected in this organism.", "PMID": 447686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8194", "title": "Iodoestrogens, syntheses, and interaction with uterine receptors.", "content": "The rationale for undertaking the present study was to evaluate the utility of iodoestradiol analogs made highly radioactive with iodine isotopes in (a) the non-invasive differentiation of estrogen-dependent from estrogen-independent breast tumors, (b) spread of metastases containing estrogen receptors, and (c) potential application in therapeutic irradiation of target tissues. In the present paper, the model syntheses of a number of nonradioactive 127I-estrogen analogs are described. The analogs were tested for their ability to displace (compete with) [3H]estradiol from receptor sites. The most active compounds, 16beta-iodoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17 beta-diol (17) and 6-iodoestra-1,3,5(10),6-tetraene-3,17 beta-diol (10b), showed a relative binding affinity of 0.57 and 0.49, respectively.", "contents": "Iodoestrogens, syntheses, and interaction with uterine receptors. The rationale for undertaking the present study was to evaluate the utility of iodoestradiol analogs made highly radioactive with iodine isotopes in (a) the non-invasive differentiation of estrogen-dependent from estrogen-independent breast tumors, (b) spread of metastases containing estrogen receptors, and (c) potential application in therapeutic irradiation of target tissues. In the present paper, the model syntheses of a number of nonradioactive 127I-estrogen analogs are described. The analogs were tested for their ability to displace (compete with) [3H]estradiol from receptor sites. The most active compounds, 16beta-iodoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17 beta-diol (17) and 6-iodoestra-1,3,5(10),6-tetraene-3,17 beta-diol (10b), showed a relative binding affinity of 0.57 and 0.49, respectively.", "PMID": 447687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8195", "title": "Purification to homogeneity and enzymatic characterization of an alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha 2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands.", "content": "By means of affinity chromatography on CDP-hexanolamine-agarose, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha 2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase (EC 2.4.99.1) has been purified 117,000-fold to homogeneity from Triton X-100 extracts of porcine submaxillary glands. The enzyme consists of several electrophoretic forms that can be partially resolved by chromatography on Sephadex G-200, the largest of which has a molecular weight of approximately 160,000 as estimated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis. Periodate oxidation studies show that the linkage formed by this enzyme with ovine submaxillary asialo-mucin as the acceptor substrate is NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6GalNAc alpha 1 leads to O-Thr/Ser. On the basis of initial rate studies and the patterns of inhibition observed with alternate acceptor substrates, the transferase is proposed to have either a random equilibrium kinetic mechanism or an ordered steady state mechanism with the acceptor substrate binding first. Among a wide variety of oligosaccharides, glycoproteins, and simple glycosides (including p-nitrophenyl-alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide), the only acceptor substrates for this enzyme are those glycoproteins containing the structure, R leads to 3GalNAc alpha 1 leads to O-Thr/Ser, where R may be H or a beta-galactoside.", "contents": "Purification to homogeneity and enzymatic characterization of an alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha 2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase from porcine submaxillary glands. By means of affinity chromatography on CDP-hexanolamine-agarose, a CMP-N-acetylneuraminate: alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha 2 leads to 6 sialyltransferase (EC 2.4.99.1) has been purified 117,000-fold to homogeneity from Triton X-100 extracts of porcine submaxillary glands. The enzyme consists of several electrophoretic forms that can be partially resolved by chromatography on Sephadex G-200, the largest of which has a molecular weight of approximately 160,000 as estimated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis. Periodate oxidation studies show that the linkage formed by this enzyme with ovine submaxillary asialo-mucin as the acceptor substrate is NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6GalNAc alpha 1 leads to O-Thr/Ser. On the basis of initial rate studies and the patterns of inhibition observed with alternate acceptor substrates, the transferase is proposed to have either a random equilibrium kinetic mechanism or an ordered steady state mechanism with the acceptor substrate binding first. Among a wide variety of oligosaccharides, glycoproteins, and simple glycosides (including p-nitrophenyl-alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminide), the only acceptor substrates for this enzyme are those glycoproteins containing the structure, R leads to 3GalNAc alpha 1 leads to O-Thr/Ser, where R may be H or a beta-galactoside.", "PMID": 447688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8196", "title": "Quantitation of milk proteins and their mRNAs in rat mammary gland at various stages of gestation and lactation.", "content": "The content of alpha-lactalbumin and three species of caseins, 42K, 29K, and 25K, have been measured along with the levels and activities of their mRNAs in the rat mammary gland. Changes in these values were followed during gestation and lactation. An increment of 3- to 4-fold over the virgin level was observed for both alpha-lactalbumin and 42K casein during the 1st day of gestation. From this point on, the level of 42K remained unchanged during the 1st week of gestation and increased thereafter. After the increment of the 1st day, the alpha-lactalbumin content decreased rapidly during the 2nd day of gestation, continued to decrease more slowly until the 12th day, and then started to increase thereafter. During the 2nd and 3rd week of gestation. the amounts of alpha-lactalbumin within the gland increased continuously but not uniformly and caseins accumulated rapidly with a tendency to plateau around the 13th to 16th day of gestation. The relative proportions remained, respectively, 42K greater than 29K greater than 25K greater than alpha-lactalbumin until parturition. At the onset of lactation, both alpha-lactalbumin and casein content increased sharply, the relative proportion for caseins changed to 42K greater than 25K greater than 29K greater than alpha-lactalbumin and remained so throughout the lactation period. alpha-Lactalbumin and casein mRNA activity, as judged by the wheat germ translational system, remained unchanged during the 1st week of gestation, then showed a steady but not uniform increase from the 7th day of gestation until parturition. These activities increased sequentially during lactation, alpha-lactalbumin reaching a plateau by the 1st week, caseins between the 1st and 2nd week, and other mRNAs by the end of the 2nd week of lactation. By the 21st day of lactation, the activity of all mRNA had declined. The levels of alpha-lactalbumin mRNA and 16 S doublet casein mRNA sequences measured with the cDNA probes increased by about 8-fold for alpha-lactalbumin mRNA and 6-fold for casein mRNA during the 1st week of gestation. These levels declined slightly early in the 2nd week and then continued to increase until parturition with a shoulder in the levels around the 13th to 16th day. During lactation, these levels increased until the 8th to 12th day and from then on declined. The content of alpha-lactalbumin and caseins, as well as the measurement of sequences and activities of their mRNAs, showed that in the rat mammary gland these differentiated functions are already expressed at the onset of gestation. Both concentration and activity of mRNA are out of phase with protein levels during the 1st week of gestation but they remain in phase thereafter.", "contents": "Quantitation of milk proteins and their mRNAs in rat mammary gland at various stages of gestation and lactation. The content of alpha-lactalbumin and three species of caseins, 42K, 29K, and 25K, have been measured along with the levels and activities of their mRNAs in the rat mammary gland. Changes in these values were followed during gestation and lactation. An increment of 3- to 4-fold over the virgin level was observed for both alpha-lactalbumin and 42K casein during the 1st day of gestation. From this point on, the level of 42K remained unchanged during the 1st week of gestation and increased thereafter. After the increment of the 1st day, the alpha-lactalbumin content decreased rapidly during the 2nd day of gestation, continued to decrease more slowly until the 12th day, and then started to increase thereafter. During the 2nd and 3rd week of gestation. the amounts of alpha-lactalbumin within the gland increased continuously but not uniformly and caseins accumulated rapidly with a tendency to plateau around the 13th to 16th day of gestation. The relative proportions remained, respectively, 42K greater than 29K greater than 25K greater than alpha-lactalbumin until parturition. At the onset of lactation, both alpha-lactalbumin and casein content increased sharply, the relative proportion for caseins changed to 42K greater than 25K greater than 29K greater than alpha-lactalbumin and remained so throughout the lactation period. alpha-Lactalbumin and casein mRNA activity, as judged by the wheat germ translational system, remained unchanged during the 1st week of gestation, then showed a steady but not uniform increase from the 7th day of gestation until parturition. These activities increased sequentially during lactation, alpha-lactalbumin reaching a plateau by the 1st week, caseins between the 1st and 2nd week, and other mRNAs by the end of the 2nd week of lactation. By the 21st day of lactation, the activity of all mRNA had declined. The levels of alpha-lactalbumin mRNA and 16 S doublet casein mRNA sequences measured with the cDNA probes increased by about 8-fold for alpha-lactalbumin mRNA and 6-fold for casein mRNA during the 1st week of gestation. These levels declined slightly early in the 2nd week and then continued to increase until parturition with a shoulder in the levels around the 13th to 16th day. During lactation, these levels increased until the 8th to 12th day and from then on declined. The content of alpha-lactalbumin and caseins, as well as the measurement of sequences and activities of their mRNAs, showed that in the rat mammary gland these differentiated functions are already expressed at the onset of gestation. Both concentration and activity of mRNA are out of phase with protein levels during the 1st week of gestation but they remain in phase thereafter.", "PMID": 447692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8197", "title": "A compact form of rat liver mitochondrial DNA stabilized by bound proteins.", "content": "A highly folded, rapidly sedimenting form of rat liver mitochondrial DNA has been released from the organelles wiht BRIJ 58 and sodium deoxycholate in the presence of 0.5 M NaCl and isolated by sedimentation velocity in sucrose gradients. Under these conditions a majority of the mitochondrial DNA labeled in vitro sedimented beyond 39 S, the sedimentation coefficient of a highly purified mitochondrial DNA supercoil, and appeared as a stable, heterogeneous population of species ranging in s values between 42 S and about 70 S. Under formamide-spreading conditions most of the rapidly sedimenting forms appeared in the electron microscope as single genome length rosettes constrained at the center in a dense core. Except for an occasional D-loop, no extraordinary structural features were evident along the smooth loops projecting radially from the central core. In sucrose gradients containing various amounts of ethidium bromide, the sedimentation velocity of the folded DNA changed in a biphasic fashion in response to increasing amounts of dye. At a dye concentration of 0.5 microgram per ml the DNA species present reached s value minima, but two major peaks sedimenting at 32 S and 42 S were present at this point. Thus, although these species were similar in superhelix density, there appeared to be additional constraints superimposed upon their tertiary structure that folded these forms to differing degrees of compactness. Direct chemical analyses showed that proteins were bound to the folded DNA at a protein to DNA ratio of about 0.3. Separation of the bound proteins on SDS-polyacrylamide gels revealed an array of proteins ranging in molecular weight between 11,000 and 150,000. Several of the lower molecular weight proteins co-migrated with proteins from the inner mitochondrial membrane, but the major DNA-bound band (Mr = 58,000) was undetectable among the proteins from any other submitchondrial fraction. Digestion of the compact DNA structure with proteinase K under various conditions indicated that the DNA was maintained in the compact conformation by the tightly bound proteins and that the portions of these proteins directly involved in stabilizing the folded DNA were proteinase insensitive unless digestion was carried out in the presence of a disulfide reductant at elevated temperatures.", "contents": "A compact form of rat liver mitochondrial DNA stabilized by bound proteins. A highly folded, rapidly sedimenting form of rat liver mitochondrial DNA has been released from the organelles wiht BRIJ 58 and sodium deoxycholate in the presence of 0.5 M NaCl and isolated by sedimentation velocity in sucrose gradients. Under these conditions a majority of the mitochondrial DNA labeled in vitro sedimented beyond 39 S, the sedimentation coefficient of a highly purified mitochondrial DNA supercoil, and appeared as a stable, heterogeneous population of species ranging in s values between 42 S and about 70 S. Under formamide-spreading conditions most of the rapidly sedimenting forms appeared in the electron microscope as single genome length rosettes constrained at the center in a dense core. Except for an occasional D-loop, no extraordinary structural features were evident along the smooth loops projecting radially from the central core. In sucrose gradients containing various amounts of ethidium bromide, the sedimentation velocity of the folded DNA changed in a biphasic fashion in response to increasing amounts of dye. At a dye concentration of 0.5 microgram per ml the DNA species present reached s value minima, but two major peaks sedimenting at 32 S and 42 S were present at this point. Thus, although these species were similar in superhelix density, there appeared to be additional constraints superimposed upon their tertiary structure that folded these forms to differing degrees of compactness. Direct chemical analyses showed that proteins were bound to the folded DNA at a protein to DNA ratio of about 0.3. Separation of the bound proteins on SDS-polyacrylamide gels revealed an array of proteins ranging in molecular weight between 11,000 and 150,000. Several of the lower molecular weight proteins co-migrated with proteins from the inner mitochondrial membrane, but the major DNA-bound band (Mr = 58,000) was undetectable among the proteins from any other submitchondrial fraction. Digestion of the compact DNA structure with proteinase K under various conditions indicated that the DNA was maintained in the compact conformation by the tightly bound proteins and that the portions of these proteins directly involved in stabilizing the folded DNA were proteinase insensitive unless digestion was carried out in the presence of a disulfide reductant at elevated temperatures.", "PMID": 447694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8198", "title": "Temperature and compositional dependence of the structure of hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin.", "content": "Differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction techniques have been used to investigate the structure and phase behavior of hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin (DML) in the hydration range 7.5 to 60 weight % water and the temperature range -10 to +60 degrees C. Four different calorimetric transitions have been observed: T1, a low enthalpy transition (deltaH approximately equal to 1 kcal/mol of DML) at 0 degrees C between lamellar phases (L leads to Lbeta); T2, the low enthalpy \"pretransition\" at water contents greater than 20 weight % corresponding to the transition Lbeta leads to Pbeta; T3, the hydrocarbon chain order-disorder transition (deltaH = 6 to 7 kcal/mol of DML) representing the transition of the more ordered low temperature phases (Lbeta, Pbeta, or crystal C, depending on the water content) to the lamellar Lalpha phase; T4, a transition occurring at 25--27 degrees C at low water contents representing the transition from the lamellar Lbeta phase to a hydrated crystalline phase C. The structures of the Lbeta, Pbeta, C, and Lalpha phases have been examined as a function of temperature and water content. The Lbeta structure has a lamellar bilayer organization with the hydrocarbon chains fully extended and tilted with respect to the normal to the bilayer plane, but packed in a distorted quasihexagonal lattice. The Pbeta structure consists of lipid bilayer lamellae distorted by a periodic \"ripple\" in the plane of the lamellae; the hydrocarbon chains are tilted but appear to be packed in a regular hexagonal lattice. The diffraction pattern from the crystalline phase C indexes according to an orthorhombic cell with a = 53.8 A, b = 9.33 A, c = 8.82 A. In the lamellae bilayer Lalpha strucure, the hydrocarbon chains adopt a liquid-like conformation. Analysis of the hydration characteristics and bilayer parameters (lipid thickness, surface area/molecule) of synthetic lecithins permits an evaluation of the generalized hydration and structural behavior of this class of lipids.", "contents": "Temperature and compositional dependence of the structure of hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin. Differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction techniques have been used to investigate the structure and phase behavior of hydrated dimyristoyl lecithin (DML) in the hydration range 7.5 to 60 weight % water and the temperature range -10 to +60 degrees C. Four different calorimetric transitions have been observed: T1, a low enthalpy transition (deltaH approximately equal to 1 kcal/mol of DML) at 0 degrees C between lamellar phases (L leads to Lbeta); T2, the low enthalpy \"pretransition\" at water contents greater than 20 weight % corresponding to the transition Lbeta leads to Pbeta; T3, the hydrocarbon chain order-disorder transition (deltaH = 6 to 7 kcal/mol of DML) representing the transition of the more ordered low temperature phases (Lbeta, Pbeta, or crystal C, depending on the water content) to the lamellar Lalpha phase; T4, a transition occurring at 25--27 degrees C at low water contents representing the transition from the lamellar Lbeta phase to a hydrated crystalline phase C. The structures of the Lbeta, Pbeta, C, and Lalpha phases have been examined as a function of temperature and water content. The Lbeta structure has a lamellar bilayer organization with the hydrocarbon chains fully extended and tilted with respect to the normal to the bilayer plane, but packed in a distorted quasihexagonal lattice. The Pbeta structure consists of lipid bilayer lamellae distorted by a periodic \"ripple\" in the plane of the lamellae; the hydrocarbon chains are tilted but appear to be packed in a regular hexagonal lattice. The diffraction pattern from the crystalline phase C indexes according to an orthorhombic cell with a = 53.8 A, b = 9.33 A, c = 8.82 A. In the lamellae bilayer Lalpha strucure, the hydrocarbon chains adopt a liquid-like conformation. Analysis of the hydration characteristics and bilayer parameters (lipid thickness, surface area/molecule) of synthetic lecithins permits an evaluation of the generalized hydration and structural behavior of this class of lipids.", "PMID": 447695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8199", "title": "delta-Aminolevulinic acid synthetase from rat liver mitochondria. Purification and properties.", "content": "delta-Aminolevulinic acid synthetase has been purified from liver mitochondria of young, uninduced rats. After nonionic detergent solubilization of mitochondrial inner membrane-matrix fractions, the enzyme was purified to a specific activity of approximately 2,000 nmol of delta-aminolevulinic acid formed/h/mg of protein at 30 degrees C, by means of ammonium sulfate precipitation, diethylaminoethyl cellulose chromatography, Sephacryl chromatography, and preparative gel electrophoresis. The purified enzyme preparation thus obtained was apparently homogeneous as judged by its migration as a single band with a molecular weight of 58,000 +/- 6,000 upon electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. The native enzyme probably exists as a dimer with a molecular weight of approximately 120,000. A pH optimum of 7.5 and an isoelectric point of 4.5 were also determined. Both monovalent cations and hemin strongly inhibited the activity of the purified enzyme.", "contents": "delta-Aminolevulinic acid synthetase from rat liver mitochondria. Purification and properties. delta-Aminolevulinic acid synthetase has been purified from liver mitochondria of young, uninduced rats. After nonionic detergent solubilization of mitochondrial inner membrane-matrix fractions, the enzyme was purified to a specific activity of approximately 2,000 nmol of delta-aminolevulinic acid formed/h/mg of protein at 30 degrees C, by means of ammonium sulfate precipitation, diethylaminoethyl cellulose chromatography, Sephacryl chromatography, and preparative gel electrophoresis. The purified enzyme preparation thus obtained was apparently homogeneous as judged by its migration as a single band with a molecular weight of 58,000 +/- 6,000 upon electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. The native enzyme probably exists as a dimer with a molecular weight of approximately 120,000. A pH optimum of 7.5 and an isoelectric point of 4.5 were also determined. Both monovalent cations and hemin strongly inhibited the activity of the purified enzyme.", "PMID": 447697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8200", "title": "Biosynthesis of N-glycosidically linked glycoproteins during gastrulation of sea urchin embryos.", "content": "Embryos of the sea urchin, Stronglyocentrotus purpuratus, synthesize several classes of sulfated and non-sulfated glycoproteins during gastrulation. The antibiotic tunicamycin, which is a specific inhibitor of the N-glycosylation of proteins, inhibits the synthesis of lipid-linked oligosaccharides in these embryos at concentrations which have little effect on the biosynthesis of other classes of glycolipids or on protein synthesis. As a consequence of this inhibition, glycoproteins with oligosaccharide side chains of the general type (Man)5-7-(GlcNAc)2 are not synthesized. In addition, the biosynthesis of a novel class of sulfated glycoproteins is inhibited. In contrast, no effect upon the synthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycans is seen. The morphogenetic consequence of tunicamycin treatment is that development of embryos from the mesenchyme blastula to the gastrula stage is arrested. The results provide evidence that during development glycoproteins containing both unsulfated and sulfated N-glycosidically linked oligosaccharide chains are synthesized via the lipid-linked pathway. The biosynthesis of these molecules appears to be a prerequisite to the differentiation and morphogenesis that occurs during gastrulation.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of N-glycosidically linked glycoproteins during gastrulation of sea urchin embryos. Embryos of the sea urchin, Stronglyocentrotus purpuratus, synthesize several classes of sulfated and non-sulfated glycoproteins during gastrulation. The antibiotic tunicamycin, which is a specific inhibitor of the N-glycosylation of proteins, inhibits the synthesis of lipid-linked oligosaccharides in these embryos at concentrations which have little effect on the biosynthesis of other classes of glycolipids or on protein synthesis. As a consequence of this inhibition, glycoproteins with oligosaccharide side chains of the general type (Man)5-7-(GlcNAc)2 are not synthesized. In addition, the biosynthesis of a novel class of sulfated glycoproteins is inhibited. In contrast, no effect upon the synthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycans is seen. The morphogenetic consequence of tunicamycin treatment is that development of embryos from the mesenchyme blastula to the gastrula stage is arrested. The results provide evidence that during development glycoproteins containing both unsulfated and sulfated N-glycosidically linked oligosaccharide chains are synthesized via the lipid-linked pathway. The biosynthesis of these molecules appears to be a prerequisite to the differentiation and morphogenesis that occurs during gastrulation.", "PMID": 447698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8201", "title": "Enzymological characterization of DNA polymerase alpha. Basic catalytic properties processivity, and gap utilization of the homogeneous enzyme from human KB cells.", "content": "This report describes the results of our initial enzymological characterization of a homogeneous preparation of DNA polymerase alpha that we have purified from cultured human KB cells. Although the enzyme is most reactive with duplex DNA substrates that contain short gaps (optimally activated) in incubations that require Mg2+, the polymerase possesses the intrinsic capacity to copy the initiated ribohomopolymer template, (A)-n, (dT)-200, at low rates in the presence of Mn2+. Because of the preponderance of DNA polymerase alpha in actively multiplying vertebrate cells, it is probable that this low level of activity comprises the majority of the ribopolymer copying activity that can be detected in crude tissue extracts. The presence of contaminating or associated deoxyribonuclease activities can be excluded from the purified enzyme to levels of 10(-4) to 10(-7) of the polymerase activity. The mechanism of polymerization on activated DNA under optimum conditions is moderately processive, with 11 +/- 5 nucleotides incorporated per polymerization cycle. The polymerase is unable to work at nicks or at short gaps of approximately 20 to 30 nucleotides in length, and it measures a surprisingly invariant effective template length on optimally activated DNA and on DNA molecules that have been gapped to varying extents with Escherichia coli exonuclease III. In the \"Appendix\" we present an amplification of the theoretical formulation of Bambara et al. (Bambara, R. A., Uyemura, D., and Choi, T. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 413--423) that permits the use of DNA polymerases with significant associated 3' leads to 5'-exonuclease activities for the accurate measurement of average template lengths (gap sizes) and titration of usable 3'-hydroxyl primer termini in gapped, duplex DNA substrates.", "contents": "Enzymological characterization of DNA polymerase alpha. Basic catalytic properties processivity, and gap utilization of the homogeneous enzyme from human KB cells. This report describes the results of our initial enzymological characterization of a homogeneous preparation of DNA polymerase alpha that we have purified from cultured human KB cells. Although the enzyme is most reactive with duplex DNA substrates that contain short gaps (optimally activated) in incubations that require Mg2+, the polymerase possesses the intrinsic capacity to copy the initiated ribohomopolymer template, (A)-n, (dT)-200, at low rates in the presence of Mn2+. Because of the preponderance of DNA polymerase alpha in actively multiplying vertebrate cells, it is probable that this low level of activity comprises the majority of the ribopolymer copying activity that can be detected in crude tissue extracts. The presence of contaminating or associated deoxyribonuclease activities can be excluded from the purified enzyme to levels of 10(-4) to 10(-7) of the polymerase activity. The mechanism of polymerization on activated DNA under optimum conditions is moderately processive, with 11 +/- 5 nucleotides incorporated per polymerization cycle. The polymerase is unable to work at nicks or at short gaps of approximately 20 to 30 nucleotides in length, and it measures a surprisingly invariant effective template length on optimally activated DNA and on DNA molecules that have been gapped to varying extents with Escherichia coli exonuclease III. In the \"Appendix\" we present an amplification of the theoretical formulation of Bambara et al. (Bambara, R. A., Uyemura, D., and Choi, T. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 413--423) that permits the use of DNA polymerases with significant associated 3' leads to 5'-exonuclease activities for the accurate measurement of average template lengths (gap sizes) and titration of usable 3'-hydroxyl primer termini in gapped, duplex DNA substrates.", "PMID": 447699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8202", "title": "The detection of smooth muscle desmin-like protein in BHK21/C13 fibroblasts.", "content": "Three distinct proteins, actin (42,000 daltons), the principal form of fibroblast 10 nm filament protein (55,000 daltons), and a protein with a molecular weight of 52,000 and a pI of 5.8 were detected in nonionic detergent-insoluble cytoskeletal and 10 nm filament preparations of control BHK21/C13 and line 9 hamster fibroblasts. Cytoskeletal preparations of other hamster fibroblast cell types, such as NIL8 and primary embryo fibroblasts, contained the 55,000-dalton component but lacked the 52,000-dalton protein. A Rous sarcoma virus transformant of the BHK21/C13 line and an adenovirus transformant of line 9, resembled the NIL8 and other fibroblast types in that they contained only the 55,000- and 42,000-dalton polypeptides. The identity of the 52,000-dalton protein in BHK21/C13 cells was studied. This protein co-electrophoreses on both one- and two-dimensional polyacrylamide gels with the predominant muscle form of 10 nm filament protein. Further, one-dimensional peptide maps of the hamster smooth muscle 10 nm filament protein and the hamster fibroblast 52,000-dalton protein are identical to one another and distinct from the peptide maps of both the 42,000- and the 55,000-dalton components of the fibroblast cytoskeletal preparations. We conclude that BHK21/C13 cells contain both the fibroblast and the muscle form of 10 nm filament protein.", "contents": "The detection of smooth muscle desmin-like protein in BHK21/C13 fibroblasts. Three distinct proteins, actin (42,000 daltons), the principal form of fibroblast 10 nm filament protein (55,000 daltons), and a protein with a molecular weight of 52,000 and a pI of 5.8 were detected in nonionic detergent-insoluble cytoskeletal and 10 nm filament preparations of control BHK21/C13 and line 9 hamster fibroblasts. Cytoskeletal preparations of other hamster fibroblast cell types, such as NIL8 and primary embryo fibroblasts, contained the 55,000-dalton component but lacked the 52,000-dalton protein. A Rous sarcoma virus transformant of the BHK21/C13 line and an adenovirus transformant of line 9, resembled the NIL8 and other fibroblast types in that they contained only the 55,000- and 42,000-dalton polypeptides. The identity of the 52,000-dalton protein in BHK21/C13 cells was studied. This protein co-electrophoreses on both one- and two-dimensional polyacrylamide gels with the predominant muscle form of 10 nm filament protein. Further, one-dimensional peptide maps of the hamster smooth muscle 10 nm filament protein and the hamster fibroblast 52,000-dalton protein are identical to one another and distinct from the peptide maps of both the 42,000- and the 55,000-dalton components of the fibroblast cytoskeletal preparations. We conclude that BHK21/C13 cells contain both the fibroblast and the muscle form of 10 nm filament protein.", "PMID": 447700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8203", "title": "Reactive sulfhydryl groups of the band 3 polypeptide from human erythroycte membranes. Location in the primary structure.", "content": "Human erythrocyte membranes contain a major transmembrane protein, known as Band 3, that is involved in anion transport. This protein contains a total of five reactive sulfhydryl groups, which can be assigned to either of two classes on the basis of their susceptibility to release from the membrane by trypsin. Two of the groups are located in the region COOH-terminal to the extracellular chymotrypsin-sensitive site of the protein and remain with a membrane-bound 55,000-dalton fragment generated by trypsin treatment. The three sulfhydryl groups NH2-terminal to the extracellular chymotrypsin site are released from the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane by trypsin. All three groups are present in a 20,000-dalton tryptic fragment of Band 3. Two of these groups are located very close to the sites of trypsin cleavage that generate the 20,000-dalton fragment. The third reactve group is probably located about 15,000-daltons from the most NH2-terminal sulfhydryl group. Two other well defined fragments of the protein do not contain reactive sulfhydryl groups. They are a 23,000-dalton fragment derived from the NH2-terminal end that is also released by trypsin from the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane and a 19,000-dalton membrane-bound region of the protein that is produced by treatment with chymotrypsin in ghosts. The 20,000-dalton tryptic fragment may, therefore, constitute a sulfhydryl-containing domain of the Band 3 protein.", "contents": "Reactive sulfhydryl groups of the band 3 polypeptide from human erythroycte membranes. Location in the primary structure. Human erythrocyte membranes contain a major transmembrane protein, known as Band 3, that is involved in anion transport. This protein contains a total of five reactive sulfhydryl groups, which can be assigned to either of two classes on the basis of their susceptibility to release from the membrane by trypsin. Two of the groups are located in the region COOH-terminal to the extracellular chymotrypsin-sensitive site of the protein and remain with a membrane-bound 55,000-dalton fragment generated by trypsin treatment. The three sulfhydryl groups NH2-terminal to the extracellular chymotrypsin site are released from the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane by trypsin. All three groups are present in a 20,000-dalton tryptic fragment of Band 3. Two of these groups are located very close to the sites of trypsin cleavage that generate the 20,000-dalton fragment. The third reactve group is probably located about 15,000-daltons from the most NH2-terminal sulfhydryl group. Two other well defined fragments of the protein do not contain reactive sulfhydryl groups. They are a 23,000-dalton fragment derived from the NH2-terminal end that is also released by trypsin from the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane and a 19,000-dalton membrane-bound region of the protein that is produced by treatment with chymotrypsin in ghosts. The 20,000-dalton tryptic fragment may, therefore, constitute a sulfhydryl-containing domain of the Band 3 protein.", "PMID": 447701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8204", "title": "Faithful transcription of eukaryotic genes by RNA polymerase III in systems reconstituted with purified DNA templates.", "content": "The virus-associated (VA) RNAI gene in human adenovirus 2 DNA has been shown by Wu (Wu, G. J. (1978) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 75, 2175--2179) to be transcribed by RNA polymerase III in a human KB cell-free extract. In the present report we have examined the fidelity of transcription of adenovirus 2 DNA and Xenopus oocyte 5 S DNA templates by RNA polymerase III in extracts derived from cultured human, murine, and amphibian kidney cells, Size and sequences analysis of the discrete transcripts synthesized in these homologous and heterologous systems indicate that they result from accurate transcription of the corresponding genes. The specific transcripts identified include both the adenovirus VA RNAI and VA RNAII, Xenopus 5 S RNA, and VA RNAI and 5 S RNA species with elongated 3' termini. The extracts derived from the various cell types differ in the ability to discriminate between the two VA RNA genes or between the heterogeneous 5 S RNA genes in the cloned DNA fragment. Wherease the human cell extracts transcribe the VA RNAI and VA RNAII genes of adenovirus at a relative frequency close to that observed in isolated nuclei, the amphibian cell extract appears to transcribe only the VA RNAI gene. The amphibian cell extract transcribes primarily that 5 S RNA gene (within 5 S DNA) which encodes the dominant oocyte 5 S RNA, whereas the human cell extract transcribes at least two distinct 5 S RNA genes. Additionally, it is shown that the VA RNAI and VA RNAII genes have separate promotor sites. The kinetics of the transcription reactions have been examined and conditions optimal for specific transcription have been established by examining the effects of salt, metal ion, and template concentrations on both total and specific RNA synthesis. It is also shown that components in the cell-free extract (from human cells) are active in directing the accurate transcription of adenovirus DNA by purified RNA polymerase III.", "contents": "Faithful transcription of eukaryotic genes by RNA polymerase III in systems reconstituted with purified DNA templates. The virus-associated (VA) RNAI gene in human adenovirus 2 DNA has been shown by Wu (Wu, G. J. (1978) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 75, 2175--2179) to be transcribed by RNA polymerase III in a human KB cell-free extract. In the present report we have examined the fidelity of transcription of adenovirus 2 DNA and Xenopus oocyte 5 S DNA templates by RNA polymerase III in extracts derived from cultured human, murine, and amphibian kidney cells, Size and sequences analysis of the discrete transcripts synthesized in these homologous and heterologous systems indicate that they result from accurate transcription of the corresponding genes. The specific transcripts identified include both the adenovirus VA RNAI and VA RNAII, Xenopus 5 S RNA, and VA RNAI and 5 S RNA species with elongated 3' termini. The extracts derived from the various cell types differ in the ability to discriminate between the two VA RNA genes or between the heterogeneous 5 S RNA genes in the cloned DNA fragment. Wherease the human cell extracts transcribe the VA RNAI and VA RNAII genes of adenovirus at a relative frequency close to that observed in isolated nuclei, the amphibian cell extract appears to transcribe only the VA RNAI gene. The amphibian cell extract transcribes primarily that 5 S RNA gene (within 5 S DNA) which encodes the dominant oocyte 5 S RNA, whereas the human cell extract transcribes at least two distinct 5 S RNA genes. Additionally, it is shown that the VA RNAI and VA RNAII genes have separate promotor sites. The kinetics of the transcription reactions have been examined and conditions optimal for specific transcription have been established by examining the effects of salt, metal ion, and template concentrations on both total and specific RNA synthesis. It is also shown that components in the cell-free extract (from human cells) are active in directing the accurate transcription of adenovirus DNA by purified RNA polymerase III.", "PMID": 447704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8205", "title": "Stoichiometry of sodium-calcium exchange in cardiac sarcolemmal vesicles. Coupling to the sodium pump.", "content": "Vesicles isolated from cardiac muscle exhibited Na,Ca exchange activity which can be measured by 45Ca influx or efflux of by 22Na efflux. The stoichiometry of Na,Ca exchange was 3 Na:1 Ca. These vesicles also exhibited ATP-dependent 22Na transport which was inhibited by ouabain indicating that this activity is due to the sodium pump, an activity which is thought to reside only in the sarcolemma. The addition of calcium caused rapid efflux of 22Na from vesicles loaded by ATP-dependent 22Na uptake indicating that the Na,Ca exchange is located in the same vesicles as the sodium pump and is thus also a sarcolemmal activity.", "contents": "Stoichiometry of sodium-calcium exchange in cardiac sarcolemmal vesicles. Coupling to the sodium pump. Vesicles isolated from cardiac muscle exhibited Na,Ca exchange activity which can be measured by 45Ca influx or efflux of by 22Na efflux. The stoichiometry of Na,Ca exchange was 3 Na:1 Ca. These vesicles also exhibited ATP-dependent 22Na transport which was inhibited by ouabain indicating that this activity is due to the sodium pump, an activity which is thought to reside only in the sarcolemma. The addition of calcium caused rapid efflux of 22Na from vesicles loaded by ATP-dependent 22Na uptake indicating that the Na,Ca exchange is located in the same vesicles as the sodium pump and is thus also a sarcolemmal activity.", "PMID": 447709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8206", "title": "Hepatic microsomal epoxide hydrase. Chemical evidence for a single polypeptide chain.", "content": "Highly purified hepatic microsomal epoxide hydrase, which had been purified in the presence of proteolytic enzyme inhibitors, was subjected to carboxypeptidase Y digestion, automated Edman degradation, and carbohydrate analysis. Carboxypeptidase Y digestion resulted in the near stoichiometric release of leucine, the COOH-terminal amino acid. Automated Edman degradation permitted the identification of the first 20 amino acid residues of epoxide hydrase. Methionine was identified as the NH2-terminal residue. The NH2-terminal region of epoxide hydrase is similar in hydrophobicity to the NH2-terminal precursor segments of several secretory proteins and the NH2-terminal regions of several microsomal cytochromes P-450. Carbohydrate analyses of the enzyme revealed the presence of 0.5 to 1.0 mol of mannose/50,000 g of protein. These results provide evidence for the presence of a single polypeptide chain in our purified enzyme preparations and suggest that there may be only one enzymic form of epoxide hydrase in microsomes from phenobarbital-treated rats.", "contents": "Hepatic microsomal epoxide hydrase. Chemical evidence for a single polypeptide chain. Highly purified hepatic microsomal epoxide hydrase, which had been purified in the presence of proteolytic enzyme inhibitors, was subjected to carboxypeptidase Y digestion, automated Edman degradation, and carbohydrate analysis. Carboxypeptidase Y digestion resulted in the near stoichiometric release of leucine, the COOH-terminal amino acid. Automated Edman degradation permitted the identification of the first 20 amino acid residues of epoxide hydrase. Methionine was identified as the NH2-terminal residue. The NH2-terminal region of epoxide hydrase is similar in hydrophobicity to the NH2-terminal precursor segments of several secretory proteins and the NH2-terminal regions of several microsomal cytochromes P-450. Carbohydrate analyses of the enzyme revealed the presence of 0.5 to 1.0 mol of mannose/50,000 g of protein. These results provide evidence for the presence of a single polypeptide chain in our purified enzyme preparations and suggest that there may be only one enzymic form of epoxide hydrase in microsomes from phenobarbital-treated rats.", "PMID": 447710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8207", "title": "Effects of proteases and protease inhibitors on the 4.5 S and 8 S androgen receptor.", "content": "The size of androgen receptors from rat ventral and dorsal prostate, dorsal prostate (Dunning) tumor, testis, epididymis, and seminal vesicle was determined using Sephadex G-200 chromatogrpahy and sucrose gradient centrifugation. The protease inhibitor diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) was used to minimize receptor breakdown. An 8-9 S, 85 to 106 A receptor (Mr = 280,000 to 365,000; f/fo = 1.9 to 2.4) observed in unfractionated cytosol prepared in low ionic strength buffer with or without DFP is in equilibrium with a 4.5-5 S, 58 A form (Mr = 117,000; f/fo = 1.8) observed at salt concentrations greater than 0.1 M KCl. Receptor partially purified using (NH4)2SO4 or phosphocellulose chromatography in the absence of DFP was present as smaller fragments of 3.6 S, 37 A and 3.0 S, 23 A. Similar fragments could be generated from the 4.5 S or 8 S receptor by mild trypsin treatment. In addition, ventral prostate contains a DFP-insensitive enzyme which specifically converts the 4.5 S, 58 A receptor to the 3.6 S 37 A fragment. The DFP-insensitive enzyme is partially inhibited by rabbit bile and appears similar to the enzyme seminin, a secretory protein of human prostate. Androgen receptor isolated in the presence of DFP from nuclei labeled in vivo is predominantly 4.5 S, 58 A, with smaller forms (37 and 23 A) appearing in the absence of DFP. The 4.5 S, 58 A nuclear receptors were also in equilibrium with a large 8 S form. Receptor breakdown by DFP-insensitive and sensitive proteases appears to be an in vitro phenomenon. Furthermore, the size of the androgen receptor is not significantly changed during receptor migration from cytoplasm to nucleus.", "contents": "Effects of proteases and protease inhibitors on the 4.5 S and 8 S androgen receptor. The size of androgen receptors from rat ventral and dorsal prostate, dorsal prostate (Dunning) tumor, testis, epididymis, and seminal vesicle was determined using Sephadex G-200 chromatogrpahy and sucrose gradient centrifugation. The protease inhibitor diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) was used to minimize receptor breakdown. An 8-9 S, 85 to 106 A receptor (Mr = 280,000 to 365,000; f/fo = 1.9 to 2.4) observed in unfractionated cytosol prepared in low ionic strength buffer with or without DFP is in equilibrium with a 4.5-5 S, 58 A form (Mr = 117,000; f/fo = 1.8) observed at salt concentrations greater than 0.1 M KCl. Receptor partially purified using (NH4)2SO4 or phosphocellulose chromatography in the absence of DFP was present as smaller fragments of 3.6 S, 37 A and 3.0 S, 23 A. Similar fragments could be generated from the 4.5 S or 8 S receptor by mild trypsin treatment. In addition, ventral prostate contains a DFP-insensitive enzyme which specifically converts the 4.5 S, 58 A receptor to the 3.6 S 37 A fragment. The DFP-insensitive enzyme is partially inhibited by rabbit bile and appears similar to the enzyme seminin, a secretory protein of human prostate. Androgen receptor isolated in the presence of DFP from nuclei labeled in vivo is predominantly 4.5 S, 58 A, with smaller forms (37 and 23 A) appearing in the absence of DFP. The 4.5 S, 58 A nuclear receptors were also in equilibrium with a large 8 S form. Receptor breakdown by DFP-insensitive and sensitive proteases appears to be an in vitro phenomenon. Furthermore, the size of the androgen receptor is not significantly changed during receptor migration from cytoplasm to nucleus.", "PMID": 447715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8208", "title": "Acetylcholine receptor degradation in adult rat diaphragms in organ culture and the effect of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies.", "content": "Acetylcholine receptor located at the neuromuscular synapse of normal innervated adult muscle fibers is extremely stable metabolically. We have studied the kinetics of receptor degradation in both normal innervated and denervated rat diaphragms in organ culture. These studies show that degradation of receptor-bound 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin is a valid measure of junctional receptor degradation. Degradation of junctional receptor is similar or identical to degradation of extrajunctional receptor in many ways: 1) both require energy, 2) both are inhibited by specific lysosomal protease inhibitors, 3) both are inhibited by treatment with colchicine, and 4) both are stimulated by treatment with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies. The one important distinction between degradation of junctional and extrajunctional receptor is a 10-fold difference in rate constant for the process.", "contents": "Acetylcholine receptor degradation in adult rat diaphragms in organ culture and the effect of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Acetylcholine receptor located at the neuromuscular synapse of normal innervated adult muscle fibers is extremely stable metabolically. We have studied the kinetics of receptor degradation in both normal innervated and denervated rat diaphragms in organ culture. These studies show that degradation of receptor-bound 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin is a valid measure of junctional receptor degradation. Degradation of junctional receptor is similar or identical to degradation of extrajunctional receptor in many ways: 1) both require energy, 2) both are inhibited by specific lysosomal protease inhibitors, 3) both are inhibited by treatment with colchicine, and 4) both are stimulated by treatment with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies. The one important distinction between degradation of junctional and extrajunctional receptor is a 10-fold difference in rate constant for the process.", "PMID": 447716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8209", "title": "Degradation of acetylcholine receptor in diaphragms of rats with experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis.", "content": "The degradation of acetylcholine receptor observed in denervated and innervated normal rat diaphragms in organ culture is stimulated by exogenous antireceptor serum. In this paper we demonstrate that diaphragms from rats with experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis contain reduced amounts of acetylcholine receptor. Acetylcholine receptor from myasthenic, but not from normal, rats has antibody bound to it and is degraded at an accelerated rate. We conclude that in the chronic phase of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis increased acetylcholine receptor degradation can be accounted for by a mechanism involving antigenic modulation, and that such a process can contribute to the clinical symptoms of impaired neuromuscular transmission.", "contents": "Degradation of acetylcholine receptor in diaphragms of rats with experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis. The degradation of acetylcholine receptor observed in denervated and innervated normal rat diaphragms in organ culture is stimulated by exogenous antireceptor serum. In this paper we demonstrate that diaphragms from rats with experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis contain reduced amounts of acetylcholine receptor. Acetylcholine receptor from myasthenic, but not from normal, rats has antibody bound to it and is degraded at an accelerated rate. We conclude that in the chronic phase of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis increased acetylcholine receptor degradation can be accounted for by a mechanism involving antigenic modulation, and that such a process can contribute to the clinical symptoms of impaired neuromuscular transmission.", "PMID": 447717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8210", "title": "The binding of calcium to the activation products of bovine factor IX.", "content": "Binding isotherms of Ca2+ to the bovine Factor IX activation intermediates and products, i.e. Factor IXalpha, Factor IXa alpha, and Factor IXa beta have been examined. At pH 7.4, Factor IX alpha possesses at least two strong Ca2+ sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and an additional 11 weaker sites, with an average KD of 3.7 mM. Bovine Factor IXa alpha also contains at least two Ca2+ binding sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and an additional 11 weaker sites, with an average KD of 1.3 mM. Factor IXa beta, the ultimate activation product of Factor IX, in the intrinsic system, likewise contains at least two strong Ca2+ sites, of average KD 0.1 mM, as well as seven additional weaker sites, possessing an average KD of 1.0 mM. The Ca2+-binding properties of the above proteins are similar to those of their precursor molecule, Factor IX, which we have earlier shown to possess at least two strong Ca2+ sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and 11 weaker sites, of average KD 1.3 mM (Amphlett, G.W., Byrne, R., and Castellino, F.J. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 6774-6779). Circular dichroism analysis of all of the above proteins was consistent with the molecules possessing a low alpha-helical content, and a high quantity of beta structure and random coil conformations.", "contents": "The binding of calcium to the activation products of bovine factor IX. Binding isotherms of Ca2+ to the bovine Factor IX activation intermediates and products, i.e. Factor IXalpha, Factor IXa alpha, and Factor IXa beta have been examined. At pH 7.4, Factor IX alpha possesses at least two strong Ca2+ sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and an additional 11 weaker sites, with an average KD of 3.7 mM. Bovine Factor IXa alpha also contains at least two Ca2+ binding sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and an additional 11 weaker sites, with an average KD of 1.3 mM. Factor IXa beta, the ultimate activation product of Factor IX, in the intrinsic system, likewise contains at least two strong Ca2+ sites, of average KD 0.1 mM, as well as seven additional weaker sites, possessing an average KD of 1.0 mM. The Ca2+-binding properties of the above proteins are similar to those of their precursor molecule, Factor IX, which we have earlier shown to possess at least two strong Ca2+ sites, with an average KD of 0.1 mM, and 11 weaker sites, of average KD 1.3 mM (Amphlett, G.W., Byrne, R., and Castellino, F.J. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 6774-6779). Circular dichroism analysis of all of the above proteins was consistent with the molecules possessing a low alpha-helical content, and a high quantity of beta structure and random coil conformations.", "PMID": 447718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8211", "title": "Basal activities and hormone responsiveness of osteoclast-like and osteoblast-like bone cells are regulated by glucocorticoids.", "content": "Isolated bone cells demonstrate cell-type specific responses to glucocorticoids. Osteoclast-like (OC) cells exhibit a large decrease in basal hyaluronate synthesis at physiological doses of glucocorticoids and resistance to further inhibition by pharmacological doses up to 10(-4) M. This effect is not accompanied by decreases in protein synthesis. In contrast, osteoblast-like (OB) cell metabolism is not inhibited by physiological doses of glucocorticoids. However, in OB cells both citrate decarboxylation and collagen synthesis are decreased at pharmacological doses of glucocorticoids and these effects are accompanied by a decrease in general protein synthesis. In addition to these effects on basal and general cell activities, physiological doses of glucocorticoids modulate the hormonal sensitivity of OC and OB bone cells such that lower concentrations of bovine parathyroid hormone (PTH) are necessary to elicit measurable biochemical changes. As a result, the presence of glucocorticoids permits significant responses to PTH to be detected at doses as low as 2 x 10(-13) M in OC and OB bone cells.", "contents": "Basal activities and hormone responsiveness of osteoclast-like and osteoblast-like bone cells are regulated by glucocorticoids. Isolated bone cells demonstrate cell-type specific responses to glucocorticoids. Osteoclast-like (OC) cells exhibit a large decrease in basal hyaluronate synthesis at physiological doses of glucocorticoids and resistance to further inhibition by pharmacological doses up to 10(-4) M. This effect is not accompanied by decreases in protein synthesis. In contrast, osteoblast-like (OB) cell metabolism is not inhibited by physiological doses of glucocorticoids. However, in OB cells both citrate decarboxylation and collagen synthesis are decreased at pharmacological doses of glucocorticoids and these effects are accompanied by a decrease in general protein synthesis. In addition to these effects on basal and general cell activities, physiological doses of glucocorticoids modulate the hormonal sensitivity of OC and OB bone cells such that lower concentrations of bovine parathyroid hormone (PTH) are necessary to elicit measurable biochemical changes. As a result, the presence of glucocorticoids permits significant responses to PTH to be detected at doses as low as 2 x 10(-13) M in OC and OB bone cells.", "PMID": 447719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8212", "title": "Structure of the carbohydrate moieties of bovine rhodopsin.", "content": "The sugar chains of bovine rhodopsin were released from the polypeptide moiety by hydrazinolysis and reduced with NaB[3H]4 after N-acetylation. The radioactive oligosaccharides thus obtained were fractionated into three components by paper chromatography. The structures of these components were elucidated as GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3 (Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3(Man alpha 1 leads to 3 and 6 Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, and GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3(Man alpha 1 leads to 3 (Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, by sequential exoglycosidase digestion, methylation analysis, and endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase D digestion. The unusual features of the sugar chains of rhodopsin molecule seem to support the proposed processing pathway for the biosynthesis of asparagine-linked sugar chains of glycoproteins.", "contents": "Structure of the carbohydrate moieties of bovine rhodopsin. The sugar chains of bovine rhodopsin were released from the polypeptide moiety by hydrazinolysis and reduced with NaB[3H]4 after N-acetylation. The radioactive oligosaccharides thus obtained were fractionated into three components by paper chromatography. The structures of these components were elucidated as GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3 (Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3(Man alpha 1 leads to 3 and 6 Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, and GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3(Man alpha 1 leads to 3 (Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man alpha 1 leads to 6)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, by sequential exoglycosidase digestion, methylation analysis, and endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase D digestion. The unusual features of the sugar chains of rhodopsin molecule seem to support the proposed processing pathway for the biosynthesis of asparagine-linked sugar chains of glycoproteins.", "PMID": 447724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8213", "title": "The carbohydrate of bovine prothrombin. Occurrence of Gal beta 1 leads to 3GlcNAc grouping in asparagine-linked sugar chains.", "content": "Bovine prothrombin contains three asparagine-linked sugar chains in 1 molecule. The sugar chains were quantitatively released from the polypeptide backbone by hydrazinolysis. All of the oligosaccharides thus obtained contain N-acetylneuraminic acid. Sialidase treatment of these acidic oligosaccharides released three isomeric oligosaccharides, N-1, N-2 and N-3. N-3 was a typical complex type asparagine-linked sugar chain widely found in other glycoprotein, while N-1 and N-2 were unique, because they contain Gal beta 1 leads to 3GlcNAc grouping in the outer chain moiety. By comparing the data of methylation analysis of the acidic oligosaccharides before and after sialidase treatment, the structures of the sugar chains of bovine prothrombin were confirmed as a mixture of NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn, NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn, NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn and their partially desialized forms.", "contents": "The carbohydrate of bovine prothrombin. Occurrence of Gal beta 1 leads to 3GlcNAc grouping in asparagine-linked sugar chains. Bovine prothrombin contains three asparagine-linked sugar chains in 1 molecule. The sugar chains were quantitatively released from the polypeptide backbone by hydrazinolysis. All of the oligosaccharides thus obtained contain N-acetylneuraminic acid. Sialidase treatment of these acidic oligosaccharides released three isomeric oligosaccharides, N-1, N-2 and N-3. N-3 was a typical complex type asparagine-linked sugar chain widely found in other glycoprotein, while N-1 and N-2 were unique, because they contain Gal beta 1 leads to 3GlcNAc grouping in the outer chain moiety. By comparing the data of methylation analysis of the acidic oligosaccharides before and after sialidase treatment, the structures of the sugar chains of bovine prothrombin were confirmed as a mixture of NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn, NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn, NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(NeuAc alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc leads to Asn and their partially desialized forms.", "PMID": 447725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8214", "title": "Stereochemistry and mechanism of reactions catalyzed by indolyl-3-alkane alpha-hydroxylase.", "content": "The reaction of tryptamine with indolyl-3-alkane alpha-hydroxylase is shown to remove stereospecifically the pro-S hydrogen at C-2 of the side chain and to give hydroxytryptamine of \"R\" configuration. The reaction therefore proceeds stereospecifically with net inversion of configuration at C-2 of the tryptamine side chain. In the reaction of L-tryptophan methyl ester, the enzyme also catalyzes stereospecific removal of the pro-S hydrogen at C-3, but the product 3-hydroxytryptophan methyl ester is racemic at C-3. The unreacted tryptophan methyl ester is shown to incorporate solvent hydrogen into the pro-S position at C-3 in an at least partially stereospecific manner, suggesting that the reaction of L-tryptophan methyl ester is reversible. The hydrogens at C-1 of the tryptamine side chain and the alpha-hydrogen of L-tryptophan methyl ester are shown to be retained in the reactions. The results support the notion that the enzyme catalyzes stereospecific 1,4-dehydrogenation of 3-substituted indoles to the coresponding alkylidene indolenines as the primary reaction, followed by stereospecific or nonstereospecific hydration of these intermediates as a secondary process. Substrate specificity studies with a number of tryptophan analogs are in excellent agreement with such a mechanism.", "contents": "Stereochemistry and mechanism of reactions catalyzed by indolyl-3-alkane alpha-hydroxylase. The reaction of tryptamine with indolyl-3-alkane alpha-hydroxylase is shown to remove stereospecifically the pro-S hydrogen at C-2 of the side chain and to give hydroxytryptamine of \"R\" configuration. The reaction therefore proceeds stereospecifically with net inversion of configuration at C-2 of the tryptamine side chain. In the reaction of L-tryptophan methyl ester, the enzyme also catalyzes stereospecific removal of the pro-S hydrogen at C-3, but the product 3-hydroxytryptophan methyl ester is racemic at C-3. The unreacted tryptophan methyl ester is shown to incorporate solvent hydrogen into the pro-S position at C-3 in an at least partially stereospecific manner, suggesting that the reaction of L-tryptophan methyl ester is reversible. The hydrogens at C-1 of the tryptamine side chain and the alpha-hydrogen of L-tryptophan methyl ester are shown to be retained in the reactions. The results support the notion that the enzyme catalyzes stereospecific 1,4-dehydrogenation of 3-substituted indoles to the coresponding alkylidene indolenines as the primary reaction, followed by stereospecific or nonstereospecific hydration of these intermediates as a secondary process. Substrate specificity studies with a number of tryptophan analogs are in excellent agreement with such a mechanism.", "PMID": 447726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8215", "title": "Lipolysis and lipid movement in a membrane model. Action of lipoprotein lipase.", "content": "The action of purified bovine milk lipoprotein lipase on tri[3H]oleoylglycerol and the effect of albumin on movement of lipolytic products at an argon-water interface were studied in a specially designed tricomparted trough. The amount of trioleoylglycerol applied was 14 times that needed to cover the surface of the aqueous subphase (0.1 M Tris . HCl, pH 7.4) with a monolayer. It is concluded that trioleoylglycerol was present in lenses on the surface of the aqueous subphase, that hydrolysis by lipoprotein lipase occurred in or near the lipid/argon-water interface, and that lipolytic products immediately located and spread throughout the interface, displacing substances with lower spreading pressures from the interface. Addition of albumin to the aqueous subphase accelerated markedly the desorption of oleic acid and monooleoylglycerol from the interface and thereby enhanced lipolysis. When albumin was not contiguous with the site of hydrolysis, oleic acid and monooleoylglycerol readily moved in the interface to the area of contact with albumin where they were desorbed from the interface. These findings support the hypothesis of transport of lipolytic products by lateral movement in cell membranes.", "contents": "Lipolysis and lipid movement in a membrane model. Action of lipoprotein lipase. The action of purified bovine milk lipoprotein lipase on tri[3H]oleoylglycerol and the effect of albumin on movement of lipolytic products at an argon-water interface were studied in a specially designed tricomparted trough. The amount of trioleoylglycerol applied was 14 times that needed to cover the surface of the aqueous subphase (0.1 M Tris . HCl, pH 7.4) with a monolayer. It is concluded that trioleoylglycerol was present in lenses on the surface of the aqueous subphase, that hydrolysis by lipoprotein lipase occurred in or near the lipid/argon-water interface, and that lipolytic products immediately located and spread throughout the interface, displacing substances with lower spreading pressures from the interface. Addition of albumin to the aqueous subphase accelerated markedly the desorption of oleic acid and monooleoylglycerol from the interface and thereby enhanced lipolysis. When albumin was not contiguous with the site of hydrolysis, oleic acid and monooleoylglycerol readily moved in the interface to the area of contact with albumin where they were desorbed from the interface. These findings support the hypothesis of transport of lipolytic products by lateral movement in cell membranes.", "PMID": 447727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8216", "title": "The calcium binding properties of phosphorylated and unphosphorylated cardiac and skeletal myosins.", "content": "Porcine left ventricular cardiac myosin and rabbit white skeletal myosin were phosphorylated by rabbit skeletal myosin light chain kinase and their Ca2+ binding properties were examined by equilibrium dialysis techniques. No significant effect of phosphorylation on the Ca2+ binding properties of these myosins was observed. Both types of striated muscle myosins bound approximately 2 mol of Ca2+/mol of myosin with similar affinities of 3 x 10(7) M-1. In the presence of 3 x 10(-4) M Mg2+ the myosins bound Ca2+ with a reduced affinity of 3 to 4 x 10(5) M-1. Assuming competition between Mg2+ and Ca2+ for the binding sites on myosin, the changes in Ca2+ binding can be accounted for by a Mg2+ affinity of 2.5 to 3.0 x 10(5) M-1.", "contents": "The calcium binding properties of phosphorylated and unphosphorylated cardiac and skeletal myosins. Porcine left ventricular cardiac myosin and rabbit white skeletal myosin were phosphorylated by rabbit skeletal myosin light chain kinase and their Ca2+ binding properties were examined by equilibrium dialysis techniques. No significant effect of phosphorylation on the Ca2+ binding properties of these myosins was observed. Both types of striated muscle myosins bound approximately 2 mol of Ca2+/mol of myosin with similar affinities of 3 x 10(7) M-1. In the presence of 3 x 10(-4) M Mg2+ the myosins bound Ca2+ with a reduced affinity of 3 to 4 x 10(5) M-1. Assuming competition between Mg2+ and Ca2+ for the binding sites on myosin, the changes in Ca2+ binding can be accounted for by a Mg2+ affinity of 2.5 to 3.0 x 10(5) M-1.", "PMID": 447729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8217", "title": "Metmyoglobin reductase. Identification and purification of a reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent enzyme from bovine heart which reduces metmyoglobin.", "content": "Beef heart muscle has been found to contain an enzyme which will rapidly and directly reduce metmyoglobin in vitro. Reduction rates are far greater than any previously reported for nonspecific or nonenzymatic systems. The enzyme is NADH-dependent and requires the presence of ferrocyanide ion for in vitro assay. The artificial electron carriers, dichlorophenolindophenol and methylene blue, are not required. Nonenzymatic reduction of metmyoglobin, which has previously been reported, was not encountered under the assay conditions described herein. Demonstration of enzymatic activity is dependent on a suitable myoglobin substrate, NADH, and ferrocyanide. An equimolar amount of cytochrome b5 was more effective than ferrocyanide in the enzymatic reduction of metmyoglobin. The methods for preparation of beef heart myoglobin and for purification of the enzyme are presented. The enzyme has been purified over 2000-fold. The enzyme has a pH optimum about 6.5 and a Km of 5.0 x 10(-5) M, and is unaffected by the absence of O2. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis revealed a molecular weight around 30,000. Purified enzyme does not react with lipoamide. The reaction is markedly influenced by the composition of the buffering milieu. Enzyme activity is inhibited by p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonic acid, quinacrine dihydrochloride, and N-ethyl-maleimide. Activity was slightly stimulated by FMN. The characteristics of the enzymatic activity and the assay system are similar to those reported by Hegesh et al. (J. Lab. Clin. Med. 72, 339-344, 1968) for erythrocyte methemoglobin reductase.", "contents": "Metmyoglobin reductase. Identification and purification of a reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent enzyme from bovine heart which reduces metmyoglobin. Beef heart muscle has been found to contain an enzyme which will rapidly and directly reduce metmyoglobin in vitro. Reduction rates are far greater than any previously reported for nonspecific or nonenzymatic systems. The enzyme is NADH-dependent and requires the presence of ferrocyanide ion for in vitro assay. The artificial electron carriers, dichlorophenolindophenol and methylene blue, are not required. Nonenzymatic reduction of metmyoglobin, which has previously been reported, was not encountered under the assay conditions described herein. Demonstration of enzymatic activity is dependent on a suitable myoglobin substrate, NADH, and ferrocyanide. An equimolar amount of cytochrome b5 was more effective than ferrocyanide in the enzymatic reduction of metmyoglobin. The methods for preparation of beef heart myoglobin and for purification of the enzyme are presented. The enzyme has been purified over 2000-fold. The enzyme has a pH optimum about 6.5 and a Km of 5.0 x 10(-5) M, and is unaffected by the absence of O2. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis revealed a molecular weight around 30,000. Purified enzyme does not react with lipoamide. The reaction is markedly influenced by the composition of the buffering milieu. Enzyme activity is inhibited by p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonic acid, quinacrine dihydrochloride, and N-ethyl-maleimide. Activity was slightly stimulated by FMN. The characteristics of the enzymatic activity and the assay system are similar to those reported by Hegesh et al. (J. Lab. Clin. Med. 72, 339-344, 1968) for erythrocyte methemoglobin reductase.", "PMID": 447731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8218", "title": "Comparison of formation, activation, and nuclear translocation of receptor . estradiol (R . E2) complex at 0 degrees C and 37 degrees C in intact uterine cells.", "content": "The present study was undertaken to establish whether molecular events leading to binding, transformation-activation, and nuclear translocation of cytoplasmic uterine estrogen receptor described for cell-free systems also occur in intact uterine cells. Cell suspensions were incubated at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C with estradiol (E2) and specific binding to intracellular receptors was measured. The data demonstrate that saturation of specific estrogen binding sites occurs within 60 min at 37 degrees C and within 22 h at 0 degrees C, with a total of approximately 24,000 to 30,000 receptor sites per cell. At equilibrium, the total number and subcellular distribution of receptor . estradiol (R . E2) complexes formed in cells incubated at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C were identical. Scatchard analysis of the equilibrium binding data yielded the same association constants for cytoplasmic and nuclear R . E2 formed in intact cells incubated at either temperature. Sucrose density gradient analysis of nuclear and cytoplasmic R . E2 formed in intact cells at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C showed that at both temperatures, the nuclear R . E2 had a 5 S sedimentation coefficient; at both temperatures, a 5 S cytosol R . E2 was detected; only in the 0 degrees C incubation, an additional 4 S cytosol R . E2 was found. These results suggest that the molecular interactions regulating the dynamics of estrogen binding in the intact cell are similar at both physiological and low temperatures.", "contents": "Comparison of formation, activation, and nuclear translocation of receptor . estradiol (R . E2) complex at 0 degrees C and 37 degrees C in intact uterine cells. The present study was undertaken to establish whether molecular events leading to binding, transformation-activation, and nuclear translocation of cytoplasmic uterine estrogen receptor described for cell-free systems also occur in intact uterine cells. Cell suspensions were incubated at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C with estradiol (E2) and specific binding to intracellular receptors was measured. The data demonstrate that saturation of specific estrogen binding sites occurs within 60 min at 37 degrees C and within 22 h at 0 degrees C, with a total of approximately 24,000 to 30,000 receptor sites per cell. At equilibrium, the total number and subcellular distribution of receptor . estradiol (R . E2) complexes formed in cells incubated at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C were identical. Scatchard analysis of the equilibrium binding data yielded the same association constants for cytoplasmic and nuclear R . E2 formed in intact cells incubated at either temperature. Sucrose density gradient analysis of nuclear and cytoplasmic R . E2 formed in intact cells at 0 degrees C or 37 degrees C showed that at both temperatures, the nuclear R . E2 had a 5 S sedimentation coefficient; at both temperatures, a 5 S cytosol R . E2 was detected; only in the 0 degrees C incubation, an additional 4 S cytosol R . E2 was found. These results suggest that the molecular interactions regulating the dynamics of estrogen binding in the intact cell are similar at both physiological and low temperatures.", "PMID": 447734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8219", "title": "Calmodulin. Production of an antibody in rabbit and development of a radioimmunoassay.", "content": "Calmodulin, a heat-stable Ca2+-binding protein (Mr = 16,700) found in all eukaryotes, is a multifunctional modulator, mediating many of the effects of Ca2+ in cellular functions. The protein was derivatized with 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNB) to give 3 mol of DNB/mol of calmodulin (DNB3-calmodulin). The dinitrophenylated protein was almost as active as native calmodulin in stimulating bovine brain Ca2+-dependent phosphodiesterase. Incorporation of the dinitrophenyl groups renders calmodulin highly antigenic in the rabbit; native calmodulin is a weak antigen. Rabbits immunized with DNB3-calmodulin produced specific antibody against both DNB3-calmodulin and calmodulin. Using the immunized serum, a radioimmunoassay was developed for calmodulin, the sensitivity for DNB3-calmodulin and calmodulin being approximately 0.2 and 2 pmol, respectively. Although the sensitivity of the radioimmunoassay for calmodulin is comparable to the enzyme assay of calmodulin with Ca2+-dependent phosphodiesterase, the radioimmunoassay affords the detection of calmodulin on the basis of antigenic determinants, and thus measures calmodulin in terms of polypeptide structure instead of its ability to stimulate an enzyme. Further, the accuracy of the radioimmunoassay is not affected by the presence of a heat-labile inhibitor protein, which affects the enzyme assay to give an apparent underestimation.", "contents": "Calmodulin. Production of an antibody in rabbit and development of a radioimmunoassay. Calmodulin, a heat-stable Ca2+-binding protein (Mr = 16,700) found in all eukaryotes, is a multifunctional modulator, mediating many of the effects of Ca2+ in cellular functions. The protein was derivatized with 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNB) to give 3 mol of DNB/mol of calmodulin (DNB3-calmodulin). The dinitrophenylated protein was almost as active as native calmodulin in stimulating bovine brain Ca2+-dependent phosphodiesterase. Incorporation of the dinitrophenyl groups renders calmodulin highly antigenic in the rabbit; native calmodulin is a weak antigen. Rabbits immunized with DNB3-calmodulin produced specific antibody against both DNB3-calmodulin and calmodulin. Using the immunized serum, a radioimmunoassay was developed for calmodulin, the sensitivity for DNB3-calmodulin and calmodulin being approximately 0.2 and 2 pmol, respectively. Although the sensitivity of the radioimmunoassay for calmodulin is comparable to the enzyme assay of calmodulin with Ca2+-dependent phosphodiesterase, the radioimmunoassay affords the detection of calmodulin on the basis of antigenic determinants, and thus measures calmodulin in terms of polypeptide structure instead of its ability to stimulate an enzyme. Further, the accuracy of the radioimmunoassay is not affected by the presence of a heat-labile inhibitor protein, which affects the enzyme assay to give an apparent underestimation.", "PMID": 447735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8220", "title": "Biological activities of the two major components of tunicamycin.", "content": "Tunicamycin, an antibiotic that inhibits the transfer of N-acetyglucosamine-1-phosphate from UDP-N-acetylglucosamine to dolichol monophosphate and thereby blocks the formation of protein-carbohydrate linkages of the N-glycosidic type, is not a single compound but a mixture of homologous antibiotics. Two major and eight minor homologs have been identified, all of which possess the ability to inhibit protein glycosylation. The biological activities of the two major components of tunicamycin were investigated and found to differ in their ability to inhibit protein glycosylation and in their effectiveness to inhibit protein synthesis. When completely blocking mannose incorporation into protein, one homolog inhibited protein synthesis by 50% while the other had only a negligible effect. The results demonstrate that differences in biological activity can be discriminated among tunicamycin homologs.", "contents": "Biological activities of the two major components of tunicamycin. Tunicamycin, an antibiotic that inhibits the transfer of N-acetyglucosamine-1-phosphate from UDP-N-acetylglucosamine to dolichol monophosphate and thereby blocks the formation of protein-carbohydrate linkages of the N-glycosidic type, is not a single compound but a mixture of homologous antibiotics. Two major and eight minor homologs have been identified, all of which possess the ability to inhibit protein glycosylation. The biological activities of the two major components of tunicamycin were investigated and found to differ in their ability to inhibit protein glycosylation and in their effectiveness to inhibit protein synthesis. When completely blocking mannose incorporation into protein, one homolog inhibited protein synthesis by 50% while the other had only a negligible effect. The results demonstrate that differences in biological activity can be discriminated among tunicamycin homologs.", "PMID": 447736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8221", "title": "Structure of the carbohydrate chain of free secretory component from human milk.", "content": "Secretory component from human milk was found to contain 23.4% carbohydrate, which includes galactose, mannose, fucose, glucosamine, and sialic acid. Secretory component could be degraded by pronase or base-borohydride to yield the same, single type of carbohydrate chain. In the glycopeptide produced by pronase digestion, aspartic acid was the only amino acid present in molar quantities after amino acid analysis, which suggests that the carbohydrate moiety is linked to the polypeptide chain at asparagine residues. The positions of links between the various sugar units were studied by methylation analyses of: secretory component, periodate-oxidized and reduced secretory component, the fragment produced by base-borohydride treatment, and the pronase glycopeptide after treatment with specific glycosidases. Sugars released from the glycopeptide by various glycosidases were also quantitated. From the results of these studies a branched chain structure was assigned to the carbohydrate chain of secretory component.", "contents": "Structure of the carbohydrate chain of free secretory component from human milk. Secretory component from human milk was found to contain 23.4% carbohydrate, which includes galactose, mannose, fucose, glucosamine, and sialic acid. Secretory component could be degraded by pronase or base-borohydride to yield the same, single type of carbohydrate chain. In the glycopeptide produced by pronase digestion, aspartic acid was the only amino acid present in molar quantities after amino acid analysis, which suggests that the carbohydrate moiety is linked to the polypeptide chain at asparagine residues. The positions of links between the various sugar units were studied by methylation analyses of: secretory component, periodate-oxidized and reduced secretory component, the fragment produced by base-borohydride treatment, and the pronase glycopeptide after treatment with specific glycosidases. Sugars released from the glycopeptide by various glycosidases were also quantitated. From the results of these studies a branched chain structure was assigned to the carbohydrate chain of secretory component.", "PMID": 447737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8222", "title": "Evidence for an essential histidyl residue at the active site of pyridoxamine (pyridoxine)-5'-phosphate oxidase from rabbit liver.", "content": "Pyridoxamine (pyridoxine)-5'-phosphate oxidase (EC 1.4.3.5) from rabbit liver is inactivated by diethylpyrocarbonate in an all-or-none fashion with first order kinetics with respect to modifier concentration. The rate of inactivation increases with pH and reflects a group with a pKa of 7.5. Inactivated enzyme is in the holo form with intact FMN. Four histidyls and a cysteinyl residue are modified by excess reagent. The restoration of enzymatic activity by hydroxylamine, the spectrophotometric and colorimetric amino acid analyses, and our previous studies on cysteine modification (Tsuge, H., and McCormick, D.B. (1979) in Flavins and Flavoproteins (Yamano, T., and Yagi, K., eds) Japan Scientific Societies Press, Tokyo, in press) all suggest that inactivation occurs solely by modification of histidine. Analyses by kinetic and statistical methods indicate that three histidines are modified slowly and are not critical for activity, while one histidine is modified nine times more rapidly and accounts for the observed inactivation. Inactivated enzyme shows no significant perturbations in structure, as evidenced by absorption, CD, fluorescence, and gel filtration, but is unable to bind the product, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate. Furthermore, the substrate-competitive inhibitor, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate oxime, protects from inactivation. Hence, diethylpyrocarbonate inactivates this enzyme by modifying a crucial histidyl residue at the substrate/product-binding site.", "contents": "Evidence for an essential histidyl residue at the active site of pyridoxamine (pyridoxine)-5'-phosphate oxidase from rabbit liver. Pyridoxamine (pyridoxine)-5'-phosphate oxidase (EC 1.4.3.5) from rabbit liver is inactivated by diethylpyrocarbonate in an all-or-none fashion with first order kinetics with respect to modifier concentration. The rate of inactivation increases with pH and reflects a group with a pKa of 7.5. Inactivated enzyme is in the holo form with intact FMN. Four histidyls and a cysteinyl residue are modified by excess reagent. The restoration of enzymatic activity by hydroxylamine, the spectrophotometric and colorimetric amino acid analyses, and our previous studies on cysteine modification (Tsuge, H., and McCormick, D.B. (1979) in Flavins and Flavoproteins (Yamano, T., and Yagi, K., eds) Japan Scientific Societies Press, Tokyo, in press) all suggest that inactivation occurs solely by modification of histidine. Analyses by kinetic and statistical methods indicate that three histidines are modified slowly and are not critical for activity, while one histidine is modified nine times more rapidly and accounts for the observed inactivation. Inactivated enzyme shows no significant perturbations in structure, as evidenced by absorption, CD, fluorescence, and gel filtration, but is unable to bind the product, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate. Furthermore, the substrate-competitive inhibitor, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate oxime, protects from inactivation. Hence, diethylpyrocarbonate inactivates this enzyme by modifying a crucial histidyl residue at the substrate/product-binding site.", "PMID": 447741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8223", "title": "Side chain cleavage of some cholesterol esters.", "content": "For some time it has been known that the side chain of cholesterol sulfate is cleaved by the cleavage enzyme system present in bovine adrenal mitochondria without prior hydrolysis of the sulfate moiety. In this work, other inorganic esters as well as some organic esters of cholesterol were tested as substrates for this enzyme system. The results revealed that cholesterol nitrate, cholesterol phosphate, and a series of acyl esters of cholesterol can also be cleaved by the enzyme system to their respective pregnenolone derivatives without first being hydrolyzed to cholesterol. The rate of oxidation of the carboxylic acid esters decreased as the size of the acyl groups increased. Cholesterol stearate and cholesterol phosphate were demonstrated to be inhibitors of the side chain cleavage of cholesterol. While digitonin, as might be expected, inhibits the cleavage of cholesterol, it accelerates the oxidation of both cholesterol sulfate and cholesterol nitrate. The results reported in this paper add support to the previously proposed hypothesis that more than one cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme system exists in adrenal mitochondria.", "contents": "Side chain cleavage of some cholesterol esters. For some time it has been known that the side chain of cholesterol sulfate is cleaved by the cleavage enzyme system present in bovine adrenal mitochondria without prior hydrolysis of the sulfate moiety. In this work, other inorganic esters as well as some organic esters of cholesterol were tested as substrates for this enzyme system. The results revealed that cholesterol nitrate, cholesterol phosphate, and a series of acyl esters of cholesterol can also be cleaved by the enzyme system to their respective pregnenolone derivatives without first being hydrolyzed to cholesterol. The rate of oxidation of the carboxylic acid esters decreased as the size of the acyl groups increased. Cholesterol stearate and cholesterol phosphate were demonstrated to be inhibitors of the side chain cleavage of cholesterol. While digitonin, as might be expected, inhibits the cleavage of cholesterol, it accelerates the oxidation of both cholesterol sulfate and cholesterol nitrate. The results reported in this paper add support to the previously proposed hypothesis that more than one cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme system exists in adrenal mitochondria.", "PMID": 447742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8224", "title": "Biosynthesis of trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline by Streptomyces griseoviridus.", "content": "Radioisotopic experiments have revealed that free trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline is an intermediate synthesized from L-proline during formation of the peptide-bound cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline residue in the antibiotic, etamycin. This conclusion was based on the fact that 1) both radiolabeled L-proline and trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline are precursors of the bound D-imino acid as noted previously by Hook and Vining ((1973) J. Chem. Soc. Chem. Commun. 185-186; (1973) Can. J. Biochem. 51, 1630-1637), 2) the unlabeled trans isomer specifically inhibited the incorporation of radiolabel from proline into the antibiotic, 3) the 14C-hydroxyimino-acid was isolated from the intracellular pool and medium following incubations with L-[14C]proline during antibiotic biosynthesis and when etamycin synthesis was blocked by D-leucine. By means of chromatographic and enzymatic analyses, it was established that the free imino acid possesses the trans-L configuration.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline by Streptomyces griseoviridus. Radioisotopic experiments have revealed that free trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline is an intermediate synthesized from L-proline during formation of the peptide-bound cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline residue in the antibiotic, etamycin. This conclusion was based on the fact that 1) both radiolabeled L-proline and trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline are precursors of the bound D-imino acid as noted previously by Hook and Vining ((1973) J. Chem. Soc. Chem. Commun. 185-186; (1973) Can. J. Biochem. 51, 1630-1637), 2) the unlabeled trans isomer specifically inhibited the incorporation of radiolabel from proline into the antibiotic, 3) the 14C-hydroxyimino-acid was isolated from the intracellular pool and medium following incubations with L-[14C]proline during antibiotic biosynthesis and when etamycin synthesis was blocked by D-leucine. By means of chromatographic and enzymatic analyses, it was established that the free imino acid possesses the trans-L configuration.", "PMID": 447743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8225", "title": "Synthesis and translation of mRNA containing 5'-terminal 7-ethylguanosine cap.", "content": "Reovirus mRNA synthesis in vitro by the virion-associated RNA polymerase was only slightly (10 to 15%) diminished in the presence of 2 mM S-adenosylethionine. However, methyl group transfer from S-adenosylmethionine (0.05 mM) to the 5'-terminal cap structure, m7GpppGm in this mRNA was markedly inhibited (80%) under these conditions. Replacement of S-adenosylmethionine by S-adenosylethionine (5 mM) yielded mRNAs containing mainly (70%) 5'-terminal e7GpppGe and e7GpppG, but some of the products were unalkylated (5'-GpppG, ppG). The ethylated mRNAs, but not the unalkylated molecules, bound to wheat germ ribosomes and were translated essentially as well as the corresponding methylated mRNAs in wheat germ extracts and in nuclease-treated rabbit reticulocyte lysates. Protein synthesis directed by ethylated mRNAs in wheat germ extract was 80% decreased by 0.1 mM m7GMP. Under conditions of limited initiation, methylated mRNA bound to wheat germ ribosomes preferentially as compared to ethylated mRNA. The results document for the first time the synthesis of ethylated mRNA and support the hypothesis that N7-alkylation of the 5'-guanosine in caps, rather than methylation itself, is important for the enhancing effect of cap on the initiation of eukaryotic protein synthesis.", "contents": "Synthesis and translation of mRNA containing 5'-terminal 7-ethylguanosine cap. Reovirus mRNA synthesis in vitro by the virion-associated RNA polymerase was only slightly (10 to 15%) diminished in the presence of 2 mM S-adenosylethionine. However, methyl group transfer from S-adenosylmethionine (0.05 mM) to the 5'-terminal cap structure, m7GpppGm in this mRNA was markedly inhibited (80%) under these conditions. Replacement of S-adenosylmethionine by S-adenosylethionine (5 mM) yielded mRNAs containing mainly (70%) 5'-terminal e7GpppGe and e7GpppG, but some of the products were unalkylated (5'-GpppG, ppG). The ethylated mRNAs, but not the unalkylated molecules, bound to wheat germ ribosomes and were translated essentially as well as the corresponding methylated mRNAs in wheat germ extracts and in nuclease-treated rabbit reticulocyte lysates. Protein synthesis directed by ethylated mRNAs in wheat germ extract was 80% decreased by 0.1 mM m7GMP. Under conditions of limited initiation, methylated mRNA bound to wheat germ ribosomes preferentially as compared to ethylated mRNA. The results document for the first time the synthesis of ethylated mRNA and support the hypothesis that N7-alkylation of the 5'-guanosine in caps, rather than methylation itself, is important for the enhancing effect of cap on the initiation of eukaryotic protein synthesis.", "PMID": 447745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8226", "title": "Domain structure of fibronectin and its relation to function. Disulfides and sulfhydryl groups.", "content": "Hamster cell fibronectin is a glycoprotein consisting of two 230,000-dalton subunits in a disulfide-bonded dimer. The molecule is composed of domains which can be separated by partial proteolytic cleavage. The carbohydrates, disulfide bonds, and a single free sulfhydryl group per chain are distributed nonuniformly among these regions. All the interchain disulfides are within 10,000 daltons of the end of the molecule and are removed by mild proteolysis which also generates 200,000- and 25,000-dalton fragments which do not contain interchain disulfides. The 200,000-dalton fragment contains all or most of the carbohydrate side chains, and the free sulfhydryl group, but is relatively poor in cystine. The 25,000-dalton fragment is carbohydrate-free and cystine-rich but has no free sulfhydryl groups. There is heterogeneity in carbohydrate content among the monomeric chains of intact fibronectin and the 200,000-dalton fragments. The gelatin binding site of fibronectin is in the 200,000 fragment. Intact disulfide bonds are required for binding of fibronectin to cells and to gelatin and blockage of the free sulfhydryl groups prevents binding of fibronectin to cells, suggesting that intermolecular disulfide bonding may be important.", "contents": "Domain structure of fibronectin and its relation to function. Disulfides and sulfhydryl groups. Hamster cell fibronectin is a glycoprotein consisting of two 230,000-dalton subunits in a disulfide-bonded dimer. The molecule is composed of domains which can be separated by partial proteolytic cleavage. The carbohydrates, disulfide bonds, and a single free sulfhydryl group per chain are distributed nonuniformly among these regions. All the interchain disulfides are within 10,000 daltons of the end of the molecule and are removed by mild proteolysis which also generates 200,000- and 25,000-dalton fragments which do not contain interchain disulfides. The 200,000-dalton fragment contains all or most of the carbohydrate side chains, and the free sulfhydryl group, but is relatively poor in cystine. The 25,000-dalton fragment is carbohydrate-free and cystine-rich but has no free sulfhydryl groups. There is heterogeneity in carbohydrate content among the monomeric chains of intact fibronectin and the 200,000-dalton fragments. The gelatin binding site of fibronectin is in the 200,000 fragment. Intact disulfide bonds are required for binding of fibronectin to cells and to gelatin and blockage of the free sulfhydryl groups prevents binding of fibronectin to cells, suggesting that intermolecular disulfide bonding may be important.", "PMID": 447746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8227", "title": "Inhibition of fatty acid oxidation by 2-bromooctanoate. Evidence for the enzymatic formation of 2-bromo-3-ketooctanoyl coenzyme A and the inhibition of 3-ketothiolase.", "content": "Incubation of rat liver mitochondria with 10 microM DL-2-bromooctanoate causes complete and irreversible inactivation of 3-ketothiolase I (acyl-CoA:acetyl-CoA C-acyltransferase). Evidence is presented that mitochondria convert bromooctanoate to 2-bromo-3-ketooctanoyl-CoA, an alpha-haloketone which is probably the active form of the inhibitor. The inactivation is accompanied by incorporation of radioactivity from [1-14C]bromooctanoate into the enzyme. Bromooctanoate does not affect the activities of the other enzymes of beta-oxidation, except for 3-ketothiolase II (acetyl-CoA:acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase), which becomes partially inhibited. Evidence is also presented that various enzymes of beta-oxidation can use 2-bromooctanoyl-CoA and its beta-oxidation products as substrates.", "contents": "Inhibition of fatty acid oxidation by 2-bromooctanoate. Evidence for the enzymatic formation of 2-bromo-3-ketooctanoyl coenzyme A and the inhibition of 3-ketothiolase. Incubation of rat liver mitochondria with 10 microM DL-2-bromooctanoate causes complete and irreversible inactivation of 3-ketothiolase I (acyl-CoA:acetyl-CoA C-acyltransferase). Evidence is presented that mitochondria convert bromooctanoate to 2-bromo-3-ketooctanoyl-CoA, an alpha-haloketone which is probably the active form of the inhibitor. The inactivation is accompanied by incorporation of radioactivity from [1-14C]bromooctanoate into the enzyme. Bromooctanoate does not affect the activities of the other enzymes of beta-oxidation, except for 3-ketothiolase II (acetyl-CoA:acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase), which becomes partially inhibited. Evidence is also presented that various enzymes of beta-oxidation can use 2-bromooctanoyl-CoA and its beta-oxidation products as substrates.", "PMID": 447747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8228", "title": "The chemical characterization of favin, a lectin isolated from Vicia faba.", "content": "We have determined the subunit structure of the glucose- and mannose-binding lectin favin, from Vicia faba. The molecule is composed of two nonidentical polypeptide chains held together by noncovalent interactions. We have determined the complete amino acid sequence of the smaller alpha chain (Mr = 5,571) and shown that it is homologous to the alpha chain of the lectins from lentil and pea and to residues 72 to 120 of concanavalin A (Con A). The larger beta chain (Mr = 20,000) contains carbohydrate and is homologous to the beta chain of lentil, pea, soybean, peanut, and red kidney bean lectins and is homologous to a portion of the Con A molecule beginning at residue 122. Favin also contains a minor component, beta' (Mr = 18,700), that closely resembles the beta chain but lacks carbohydrate and may, on the basis of apparent molecular weight, lack some part of the COOH-terminal region of the polypeptide chain. Although favin is similar to Con A, it, like the lentil and pea lectins, appears to lack residues corresponding to positions 1 to 71 of Con A. Because these residues contribute significantly to the carbohydrate binding site of Con A, the lack of this region in the otherwise homologous lectin favin suggests that the carbohydrate binding site of favin differs from that of Con A or that the region represented by residues 1 to 71 of Con A is located in a different portion (i.e. in the beta chain) of the favin molecule.", "contents": "The chemical characterization of favin, a lectin isolated from Vicia faba. We have determined the subunit structure of the glucose- and mannose-binding lectin favin, from Vicia faba. The molecule is composed of two nonidentical polypeptide chains held together by noncovalent interactions. We have determined the complete amino acid sequence of the smaller alpha chain (Mr = 5,571) and shown that it is homologous to the alpha chain of the lectins from lentil and pea and to residues 72 to 120 of concanavalin A (Con A). The larger beta chain (Mr = 20,000) contains carbohydrate and is homologous to the beta chain of lentil, pea, soybean, peanut, and red kidney bean lectins and is homologous to a portion of the Con A molecule beginning at residue 122. Favin also contains a minor component, beta' (Mr = 18,700), that closely resembles the beta chain but lacks carbohydrate and may, on the basis of apparent molecular weight, lack some part of the COOH-terminal region of the polypeptide chain. Although favin is similar to Con A, it, like the lentil and pea lectins, appears to lack residues corresponding to positions 1 to 71 of Con A. Because these residues contribute significantly to the carbohydrate binding site of Con A, the lack of this region in the otherwise homologous lectin favin suggests that the carbohydrate binding site of favin differs from that of Con A or that the region represented by residues 1 to 71 of Con A is located in a different portion (i.e. in the beta chain) of the favin molecule.", "PMID": 447749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8229", "title": "Membrane and bubble oxygenators compared by preservation of myocardial function.", "content": "Membrane oxygenators reputedly preserve erythrocytes, platelets, kidneys, brain and lungs better than bubble oxygenators; preservation of ventricular function by the two types of oxygenator is compared in isolated hearts, extremely sensitive to imperfections of perfusion, by isovolumic tests which are simple and accurate, especially for evaluating compliance. Canine hearts were perfused for three hours with either disposable bubble (Temptrol) or membrane (Lande-Edwards) oxygenators. Values at a standard point on regression slopes os isovolumic contractile force, velocity and compliance (volume) against end-diastolic pressure were used to express final functions as percentages of initial ones. Terminal proportional ventricular weight was an index of oedema. The final mean percentages with standard error measurements of initial values for the 12 hearts perfused on buble oxygenators and the 10 on membrane oxygenators were, respectively: 97 +/- 11.5% and 87 +/- 10.7% for contractile force, 117 +/- 23.1% and 88 +/- 10.44% for contractile velocity, and 97.2 +/- 8.48% and 117.3 +/- 12.5% for ventricular compliance, which was the function nearest to showing a significant difference with P less than 0.1. There was no significant difference in weights. This membrane oxygenator, as cheap and simple as conventional ones, probably has similar advantages for the myocardium as for other tissues.", "contents": "Membrane and bubble oxygenators compared by preservation of myocardial function. Membrane oxygenators reputedly preserve erythrocytes, platelets, kidneys, brain and lungs better than bubble oxygenators; preservation of ventricular function by the two types of oxygenator is compared in isolated hearts, extremely sensitive to imperfections of perfusion, by isovolumic tests which are simple and accurate, especially for evaluating compliance. Canine hearts were perfused for three hours with either disposable bubble (Temptrol) or membrane (Lande-Edwards) oxygenators. Values at a standard point on regression slopes os isovolumic contractile force, velocity and compliance (volume) against end-diastolic pressure were used to express final functions as percentages of initial ones. Terminal proportional ventricular weight was an index of oedema. The final mean percentages with standard error measurements of initial values for the 12 hearts perfused on buble oxygenators and the 10 on membrane oxygenators were, respectively: 97 +/- 11.5% and 87 +/- 10.7% for contractile force, 117 +/- 23.1% and 88 +/- 10.44% for contractile velocity, and 97.2 +/- 8.48% and 117.3 +/- 12.5% for ventricular compliance, which was the function nearest to showing a significant difference with P less than 0.1. There was no significant difference in weights. This membrane oxygenator, as cheap and simple as conventional ones, probably has similar advantages for the myocardium as for other tissues.", "PMID": 447761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8230", "title": "Angioplasty of the profunda femoris in revascularisation of the lower extremity.", "content": "Excellent results with respect to preservation of the limb and improvement of claudication were obtained with profundaplasty in 29 patients with Fontaine's stage III or IV chronic obliteration. The method is regarded as one of choice for saving the limb, but not as a replacement for other methods of direct revascularisation of the femoropopliteal axis in cases where complete functional recovery is also required. A comparison is made between the results of profundaplasty and reconstruction of the axis in a personal series.", "contents": "Angioplasty of the profunda femoris in revascularisation of the lower extremity. Excellent results with respect to preservation of the limb and improvement of claudication were obtained with profundaplasty in 29 patients with Fontaine's stage III or IV chronic obliteration. The method is regarded as one of choice for saving the limb, but not as a replacement for other methods of direct revascularisation of the femoropopliteal axis in cases where complete functional recovery is also required. A comparison is made between the results of profundaplasty and reconstruction of the axis in a personal series.", "PMID": 447763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8231", "title": "Spinal cord injury following aortorenal bypass.", "content": "Spinal cord ischemia following abdominal aortic aneurysmectomy is believed to be caused by hypotension, aortic clamping, division of lumbar arteries, and emboli. In this report a patient underwent aortorenal bypass complicated by temporary urinary and rectal sphincter paralysis appearing four days postoperatively. Angiographic studies suggest that the cord damage was caused by microemboli traversing iliolumbar collateral arteries.", "contents": "Spinal cord injury following aortorenal bypass. Spinal cord ischemia following abdominal aortic aneurysmectomy is believed to be caused by hypotension, aortic clamping, division of lumbar arteries, and emboli. In this report a patient underwent aortorenal bypass complicated by temporary urinary and rectal sphincter paralysis appearing four days postoperatively. Angiographic studies suggest that the cord damage was caused by microemboli traversing iliolumbar collateral arteries.", "PMID": 447762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8232", "title": "Consumption coagulopathy associated with arterial aneurysms.", "content": "Consumption coagulopathy resulting from arterial aneurysm is an uncommon entity. Two patients, one with a femoral artery aneurysm and one with an abdominal aortic aneurysm containing fresh blood clot associated with a coagulopathy are presented. Reasonable preoperative control of the bleeding disorder with appropriate blood products followed by aneurysmectomy is recommended. Except to treat severe bleeding disorders associated with arterial aneurysms, heparin therapy is rarely necessary, as spontaneous reversal of the coagulopathy usually occurs. A high index of suspicion for the presence of an underlying arterial aneurysm as the cause for the consumption coagulopathy is necessary when no other etiology is obvious.", "contents": "Consumption coagulopathy associated with arterial aneurysms. Consumption coagulopathy resulting from arterial aneurysm is an uncommon entity. Two patients, one with a femoral artery aneurysm and one with an abdominal aortic aneurysm containing fresh blood clot associated with a coagulopathy are presented. Reasonable preoperative control of the bleeding disorder with appropriate blood products followed by aneurysmectomy is recommended. Except to treat severe bleeding disorders associated with arterial aneurysms, heparin therapy is rarely necessary, as spontaneous reversal of the coagulopathy usually occurs. A high index of suspicion for the presence of an underlying arterial aneurysm as the cause for the consumption coagulopathy is necessary when no other etiology is obvious.", "PMID": 447764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8233", "title": "The anatomy of the lumbar sympathetic trunks in man (with special reference to the question of regeneration after sympathectomy).", "content": "Although possible to decentralize the sympathetic outflow to the leg, below the knee, by resecting only the third lumbar sympathetic ganglion, the likelihood of restoration of normal vasoconstrictor activity warrants a more extensive resection to include at least the second and third lumbar ganglia, and preferably the second, third, and fourth lumbar ganglia. When cross-over fibers are suspected or demonstrated following unilateral sympathectomy, the denervation should include the fourth and fifth lumbar ganglia. The first lumbar ganglion should be spared at least unilaterally if interference with reproductive function is to be avoided.", "contents": "The anatomy of the lumbar sympathetic trunks in man (with special reference to the question of regeneration after sympathectomy). Although possible to decentralize the sympathetic outflow to the leg, below the knee, by resecting only the third lumbar sympathetic ganglion, the likelihood of restoration of normal vasoconstrictor activity warrants a more extensive resection to include at least the second and third lumbar ganglia, and preferably the second, third, and fourth lumbar ganglia. When cross-over fibers are suspected or demonstrated following unilateral sympathectomy, the denervation should include the fourth and fifth lumbar ganglia. The first lumbar ganglion should be spared at least unilaterally if interference with reproductive function is to be avoided.", "PMID": 447765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8234", "title": "Effect of lumbar sympathectomy on the lower extremity.", "content": "1. Lumbar sympathectomy creates a state of vasodilatation equivalent to physiological vasodilatation of daily living; however, after sympathectomy, vasodilatation is permanent and irreversible. 2. This vasodilatation is characterized at rest by a preferred distribution of blood to the skin and to subcutaneous cellular tissue of the lower extremity, foot and toes. 3. This vasodilatation, although permanent, does not interfere with increased output to muscles at work. They benefit by a particular mechanism of metabolic vasodilatation (Fig. 6). 4. Lumbar sympathectomy has a beneficial effect on the collateral compensatory circulation of an obliterated large artery. This effect is induced by suppression of the peripheral resistance, and thus, by increasing the pressure gradient. 5. The vasodilatation obtained by intravenous injection of pentothal is qualitatively the same as that which follows a lumbar sympathectomy. The test with pentothal, because of this action, is an excellent method for prognosis and control of lumbar sympathectomy effects.", "contents": "Effect of lumbar sympathectomy on the lower extremity. 1. Lumbar sympathectomy creates a state of vasodilatation equivalent to physiological vasodilatation of daily living; however, after sympathectomy, vasodilatation is permanent and irreversible. 2. This vasodilatation is characterized at rest by a preferred distribution of blood to the skin and to subcutaneous cellular tissue of the lower extremity, foot and toes. 3. This vasodilatation, although permanent, does not interfere with increased output to muscles at work. They benefit by a particular mechanism of metabolic vasodilatation (Fig. 6). 4. Lumbar sympathectomy has a beneficial effect on the collateral compensatory circulation of an obliterated large artery. This effect is induced by suppression of the peripheral resistance, and thus, by increasing the pressure gradient. 5. The vasodilatation obtained by intravenous injection of pentothal is qualitatively the same as that which follows a lumbar sympathectomy. The test with pentothal, because of this action, is an excellent method for prognosis and control of lumbar sympathectomy effects.", "PMID": 447768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8235", "title": "Effect of lumbar sympathectomy on the muscles.", "content": "With the physiological data concerning microcirculation and sympathetic control, the author foresees the effects that one must obtain with lumbar sympathectomy. The improvements of cutaneous circulation are usually well known while those of muscular circulation are more debated. To prove it, the author has studied the muscular flow after sympathectomy using Xenon radioactive method and the non invasive electromagnetic flowmetry method. Despite the background of a short experience in this matter, the results seems to point out a beneficial effect of lumbar sympathectomy in muscular circulation at rest and exercise, in patients having obstructive arteriopathies of the lower extremities.", "contents": "Effect of lumbar sympathectomy on the muscles. With the physiological data concerning microcirculation and sympathetic control, the author foresees the effects that one must obtain with lumbar sympathectomy. The improvements of cutaneous circulation are usually well known while those of muscular circulation are more debated. To prove it, the author has studied the muscular flow after sympathectomy using Xenon radioactive method and the non invasive electromagnetic flowmetry method. Despite the background of a short experience in this matter, the results seems to point out a beneficial effect of lumbar sympathectomy in muscular circulation at rest and exercise, in patients having obstructive arteriopathies of the lower extremities.", "PMID": 447767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8236", "title": "Experimental study of sensitization to catecholamines after lumbar sympathectomy.", "content": "In a first time, the authors have shown a real supersensitivity to the action of catecholamines after lumbar sympathectomy in dog. Then, they have established a protocol which can be applied to the exploration of those phenomena in arteritic patients. Same doses of epinephrine and norepinephrine (which correspond to a slight hypercatecholamine blood level under stress) are injected intravenously, comparatively before and after lumbar sympathectomy. The modifications of E.C.G., arterial blood pressure and rheographic record, caused by those injections seem to prove the existence of a sensitization which is still lasting 4 months after the operation, but which does not seem to be noxious. Therefore, this sensitization generates compensating reflex reactions to arterial hypertension, leading to a favorable increase of the blood flow in the denervated territories.", "contents": "Experimental study of sensitization to catecholamines after lumbar sympathectomy. In a first time, the authors have shown a real supersensitivity to the action of catecholamines after lumbar sympathectomy in dog. Then, they have established a protocol which can be applied to the exploration of those phenomena in arteritic patients. Same doses of epinephrine and norepinephrine (which correspond to a slight hypercatecholamine blood level under stress) are injected intravenously, comparatively before and after lumbar sympathectomy. The modifications of E.C.G., arterial blood pressure and rheographic record, caused by those injections seem to prove the existence of a sensitization which is still lasting 4 months after the operation, but which does not seem to be noxious. Therefore, this sensitization generates compensating reflex reactions to arterial hypertension, leading to a favorable increase of the blood flow in the denervated territories.", "PMID": 447769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8237", "title": "Evaluation of effectiveness of lumbar sympathectomy by non invasive diagnostic techniques.", "content": "Out of a total of more than 1,200 patients in whom lumbar sympathectomy was carried out, two groups of 96 and 50 consecutive and non selected patients were evaluated before and after the operation by non invasive physiologic tests (digital plethysmography, post-occlusive reactive hyperemia, segmental blood pressure at rest and after exercise, Strandness test). Results were compared with angiography and clinical data. The statistical study of results corroborates the following points. 1. Lumbar sympathectomy is essentially effective in atherosclerotic arterial disease, but much less so in diabetic patients and in cases of widespread disease. 2. Patients with obstructive disease of the femoral artery had more improvement (t = 4.25) than patients with obstruction of peripheral arteries (t = 2.4). 3. Walking time was significantly improved after sympathectomy (p = 0.02). 4. Only one parameter, rheographic quotient Rq was statistically improved (p = 0.01). 5. The post occlusive reactive hyperemia test is a good method to predict the results of lumbar sympathectomy (correlation r = 0.22). We feel that this operation is indicated in cases of: isolated obstruction of the femoral artery with claudication superior to 200 meters, reconstruction with an associated obstruction of the superficial femoral artery.", "contents": "Evaluation of effectiveness of lumbar sympathectomy by non invasive diagnostic techniques. Out of a total of more than 1,200 patients in whom lumbar sympathectomy was carried out, two groups of 96 and 50 consecutive and non selected patients were evaluated before and after the operation by non invasive physiologic tests (digital plethysmography, post-occlusive reactive hyperemia, segmental blood pressure at rest and after exercise, Strandness test). Results were compared with angiography and clinical data. The statistical study of results corroborates the following points. 1. Lumbar sympathectomy is essentially effective in atherosclerotic arterial disease, but much less so in diabetic patients and in cases of widespread disease. 2. Patients with obstructive disease of the femoral artery had more improvement (t = 4.25) than patients with obstruction of peripheral arteries (t = 2.4). 3. Walking time was significantly improved after sympathectomy (p = 0.02). 4. Only one parameter, rheographic quotient Rq was statistically improved (p = 0.01). 5. The post occlusive reactive hyperemia test is a good method to predict the results of lumbar sympathectomy (correlation r = 0.22). We feel that this operation is indicated in cases of: isolated obstruction of the femoral artery with claudication superior to 200 meters, reconstruction with an associated obstruction of the superficial femoral artery.", "PMID": 447771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8238", "title": "Plasma testosterone and the diagnosis of panhypopituitarism in women.", "content": "Plasma testosterone was shown to be a very sensitive index of panhypopituitarism in women. In 18 women, testosterone levels were found to be 0.06 +/- 0.04 ng/ml (mean +/- SD; normal, 0.40 +/- 0.10 ng/ml). In all patients, the values were below 2 SD of testosterone levels found in normal women. Dihydrotestosterone concentrations were similarly modified. Such an important decrease in plasma testosterone was probably due to the additional effect produced by the functional suppression of both sources of testosterone precursors: the adrenals and the ovaries.", "contents": "Plasma testosterone and the diagnosis of panhypopituitarism in women. Plasma testosterone was shown to be a very sensitive index of panhypopituitarism in women. In 18 women, testosterone levels were found to be 0.06 +/- 0.04 ng/ml (mean +/- SD; normal, 0.40 +/- 0.10 ng/ml). In all patients, the values were below 2 SD of testosterone levels found in normal women. Dihydrotestosterone concentrations were similarly modified. Such an important decrease in plasma testosterone was probably due to the additional effect produced by the functional suppression of both sources of testosterone precursors: the adrenals and the ovaries.", "PMID": 447792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8239", "title": "Stimulatory effect of acute baclofen administration on human growth hormone secretion.", "content": "The effect of acute administration of the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) derivative, baclofen, on human GH secretion was tested. In eight of the nine volunteers, both 5 and 10 mg baclofen (Lioresal) significantly basal GH secretion. Previoulsy, it has been reported that subacute baclofen treatment inhibits the GH response to insulin hypoglycemia and arginine. Thus, the present study shows that baclofen is able to modify GH secretion via different mechanisms, depending on the test situation and duration of treatment. As a putative GABA agonist, the effect of baclofen may be mediated via GABA-ergic pathways. Because of variable results, the evaluation of a possible physiological role of GABA in GH secretion requires further study.", "contents": "Stimulatory effect of acute baclofen administration on human growth hormone secretion. The effect of acute administration of the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) derivative, baclofen, on human GH secretion was tested. In eight of the nine volunteers, both 5 and 10 mg baclofen (Lioresal) significantly basal GH secretion. Previoulsy, it has been reported that subacute baclofen treatment inhibits the GH response to insulin hypoglycemia and arginine. Thus, the present study shows that baclofen is able to modify GH secretion via different mechanisms, depending on the test situation and duration of treatment. As a putative GABA agonist, the effect of baclofen may be mediated via GABA-ergic pathways. Because of variable results, the evaluation of a possible physiological role of GABA in GH secretion requires further study.", "PMID": 447793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8240", "title": "Direct radioimmunoassay of human renin.", "content": "Antibodies were raised in rabbit against pure human renin. The antisera obtained are highly specific for human renin versus hog, dog and rat renin. They do not cross-react with acid proteases such as pepsin and human cathepsin D. A direct radioimunoassay is described for human renin in plasma and kidney extracts. 30 to 50 pg of enzyme (2.5 to 4 x 10(-5) Goldblatt units) are detected.", "contents": "Direct radioimmunoassay of human renin. Antibodies were raised in rabbit against pure human renin. The antisera obtained are highly specific for human renin versus hog, dog and rat renin. They do not cross-react with acid proteases such as pepsin and human cathepsin D. A direct radioimunoassay is described for human renin in plasma and kidney extracts. 30 to 50 pg of enzyme (2.5 to 4 x 10(-5) Goldblatt units) are detected.", "PMID": 447794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8241", "title": "Prostaglandins: modulators of renal function and pressor resistance in chronic liver disease.", "content": "Prostaglandins may modulate renal function and play a role in the hyperreninism and angiotensin pressor resistance of chronic liver disease. To study this possibility, we evaluated 12 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and ascites. Urine immunoassayable prostaglandin E in 5 female patients was 3.3 +/- 0.5 micrograms/day [normal, 0.3 +/- 0.1 (SE)], renin was 14.6 +/- 3.7 ng/ml.h, and aldosterone was 76 +/- 19 ng/dl. After either indomethacin (200 mg) or ibuprofen (2000 mg) for 1 day, urine immunoassayable prostaglandin E fell to 0.8 +/- 0.4 micrograms/day, renin to 8.0 +/- 2.4 ng/mol.h, and aldosterone to 54 +/- 14 ng/dl (all P less than 0.01). Pressor sensitivity increased dramatically, and creatinine clearance transiently fell from 73 +/- 10 to 32 +/- 7 cc/min (P less than 0.01). Because a primary effect on renin might explain the renal impairment, an additional study used propranolol to lower renin activity. Renal function was unaltered by propranolol. We conclude that prostaglandins play a supportive role in maintaining renal function and are involved in the hyperreninism and pressor resistance of patients with liver disease.", "contents": "Prostaglandins: modulators of renal function and pressor resistance in chronic liver disease. Prostaglandins may modulate renal function and play a role in the hyperreninism and angiotensin pressor resistance of chronic liver disease. To study this possibility, we evaluated 12 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and ascites. Urine immunoassayable prostaglandin E in 5 female patients was 3.3 +/- 0.5 micrograms/day [normal, 0.3 +/- 0.1 (SE)], renin was 14.6 +/- 3.7 ng/ml.h, and aldosterone was 76 +/- 19 ng/dl. After either indomethacin (200 mg) or ibuprofen (2000 mg) for 1 day, urine immunoassayable prostaglandin E fell to 0.8 +/- 0.4 micrograms/day, renin to 8.0 +/- 2.4 ng/mol.h, and aldosterone to 54 +/- 14 ng/dl (all P less than 0.01). Pressor sensitivity increased dramatically, and creatinine clearance transiently fell from 73 +/- 10 to 32 +/- 7 cc/min (P less than 0.01). Because a primary effect on renin might explain the renal impairment, an additional study used propranolol to lower renin activity. Renal function was unaltered by propranolol. We conclude that prostaglandins play a supportive role in maintaining renal function and are involved in the hyperreninism and pressor resistance of patients with liver disease.", "PMID": 447795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8242", "title": "Vitamin D bioavailability: serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in man after oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous vitamin D administration.", "content": "Bioavailability of vitamin D (D) was assessed by competitive protein-binding assay of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels in normal adult volunteers after a single oral, sc, or im dose of commercially available D pharmaceuticals or after a single iv injection of ethanol-propylene glycol solution containing D. Similar increases in serum 25OHD levels were noted after either iv D2 or D3 (100 micrograms/kg), suggesting that the 25-hydroxylation of D2 and D3 is comparable in man. Absolute increases in serum 25OHD levels were similar in subjects receiving D in iv doses of 100 and 250 micrograms/kg; however, subjects receiving the larger dose had higher basal 25OHD levels. This finding suggests an inverse relationship in man between basal serum 25OHD concentrations and relative serum 25OHD increments after administration of pharmacological doses of D. Oil depot sc and im injection of D (200 micrograms/kg) resulted in delayed serum 25OHD increases compared to oral and iv dosing (100 micrograms/kg). Studies after im oil depot injection of [3H]D3 into rats showed that D administered in this manner had delayed bioavailability but remained unaltered in situ. Differences in D pharmaceutical bioavailability should be considered in treatment or prophylaxis with this sterol.", "contents": "Vitamin D bioavailability: serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in man after oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous vitamin D administration. Bioavailability of vitamin D (D) was assessed by competitive protein-binding assay of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels in normal adult volunteers after a single oral, sc, or im dose of commercially available D pharmaceuticals or after a single iv injection of ethanol-propylene glycol solution containing D. Similar increases in serum 25OHD levels were noted after either iv D2 or D3 (100 micrograms/kg), suggesting that the 25-hydroxylation of D2 and D3 is comparable in man. Absolute increases in serum 25OHD levels were similar in subjects receiving D in iv doses of 100 and 250 micrograms/kg; however, subjects receiving the larger dose had higher basal 25OHD levels. This finding suggests an inverse relationship in man between basal serum 25OHD concentrations and relative serum 25OHD increments after administration of pharmacological doses of D. Oil depot sc and im injection of D (200 micrograms/kg) resulted in delayed serum 25OHD increases compared to oral and iv dosing (100 micrograms/kg). Studies after im oil depot injection of [3H]D3 into rats showed that D administered in this manner had delayed bioavailability but remained unaltered in situ. Differences in D pharmaceutical bioavailability should be considered in treatment or prophylaxis with this sterol.", "PMID": 447796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8243", "title": "A procedure for combining menstrual cycle data.", "content": "A procedure is presented which overcomes most of the conceptual and statistical problems associated with the combining of data from heterogeneous menstrual cycles for graphical or statistical analyses. This procedure is based upon an initial normalization of the raw data to eliminate extraneous between-cycle variability, followed by the assignment of the data to a set of discrete cycle phases using a weighted-average technique. The efficacy of this procedure is compared to that of seven other published categorization methods by examining the proportion of variance accounted for and the P values from analyses of variance computed for 17 beta-estradiol and olfactory sensitivity measures. A major advantage of the proposed procedure is that it allows for the grouping of data from entire cycles (including menses) on the same figure without exhibiting points from heterogeneous sectors of individual cycles and without changing the sample size as distance from the midcycle LH surge increases. Thus, this procedure provides equal sample sizes for all phases of the cycle, allowing repeated-measures parametric statistical analyses to be performed. Data are presented which suggest that the categorization of menstrual cycle data without carefully established cycle phases can lead to quite erroneous conclusions.", "contents": "A procedure for combining menstrual cycle data. A procedure is presented which overcomes most of the conceptual and statistical problems associated with the combining of data from heterogeneous menstrual cycles for graphical or statistical analyses. This procedure is based upon an initial normalization of the raw data to eliminate extraneous between-cycle variability, followed by the assignment of the data to a set of discrete cycle phases using a weighted-average technique. The efficacy of this procedure is compared to that of seven other published categorization methods by examining the proportion of variance accounted for and the P values from analyses of variance computed for 17 beta-estradiol and olfactory sensitivity measures. A major advantage of the proposed procedure is that it allows for the grouping of data from entire cycles (including menses) on the same figure without exhibiting points from heterogeneous sectors of individual cycles and without changing the sample size as distance from the midcycle LH surge increases. Thus, this procedure provides equal sample sizes for all phases of the cycle, allowing repeated-measures parametric statistical analyses to be performed. Data are presented which suggest that the categorization of menstrual cycle data without carefully established cycle phases can lead to quite erroneous conclusions.", "PMID": 447797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8244", "title": "Conventional supervoltage irradiation is an effective treatment for acromegaly.", "content": "Forty-seven acromegalic patients were treated with conventional supervoltage irradiation (4000-5000 rads) and were followed-up at 2, 5, and 10 yr after treatment. The mean fall in the GH concentrations 5 years after treatment was 77%, and GH was less than 10 ng/ml in 73% of the cases. In the majority, GH continued to fall over the 5- to 10-yr interval after treatment, so that by 10 yr, plasma GH was less than or equal to 10 ng/ml in 81% and less than or equal to 5 ng/ml in 69% of the patients. Also, the subjective (acral and facial changes) and the objective (metabolic) effects of GH excess all showed significant improvement with time, and the improvement roughly paralleled the fall in plasma GH concentrations. After therapy, no patient developed extrasellar extension, and headaches improved in the majority of patients. The prevalence of hypopituitarism, which was low before treatment, increased progressively throughout the follow-up period. Significant loss of vision was observed in only one patient, who received 5600 rads and had severe systemic sarcoidosis. The only other complication was temporal hair loss. Conventional super-voltage irradiation by 5-10 yr produces the same fall in plasma GH as all other forms of treatment for acromegaly, including transphenoidal microsurgery. The rate of fall in plasma GH after conventional irradiation is comparable to that of more aggressive forms of irradiation and is slower than that achieved by surgical methods but probably conventional irradiation has fewer serious side effects.", "contents": "Conventional supervoltage irradiation is an effective treatment for acromegaly. Forty-seven acromegalic patients were treated with conventional supervoltage irradiation (4000-5000 rads) and were followed-up at 2, 5, and 10 yr after treatment. The mean fall in the GH concentrations 5 years after treatment was 77%, and GH was less than 10 ng/ml in 73% of the cases. In the majority, GH continued to fall over the 5- to 10-yr interval after treatment, so that by 10 yr, plasma GH was less than or equal to 10 ng/ml in 81% and less than or equal to 5 ng/ml in 69% of the patients. Also, the subjective (acral and facial changes) and the objective (metabolic) effects of GH excess all showed significant improvement with time, and the improvement roughly paralleled the fall in plasma GH concentrations. After therapy, no patient developed extrasellar extension, and headaches improved in the majority of patients. The prevalence of hypopituitarism, which was low before treatment, increased progressively throughout the follow-up period. Significant loss of vision was observed in only one patient, who received 5600 rads and had severe systemic sarcoidosis. The only other complication was temporal hair loss. Conventional super-voltage irradiation by 5-10 yr produces the same fall in plasma GH as all other forms of treatment for acromegaly, including transphenoidal microsurgery. The rate of fall in plasma GH after conventional irradiation is comparable to that of more aggressive forms of irradiation and is slower than that achieved by surgical methods but probably conventional irradiation has fewer serious side effects.", "PMID": 447799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8245", "title": "Effects of androgen on sexual behavior in hypogonadal men.", "content": "Despite the widespread use of androgen in the treatment of hypogonadal men, its efficacy in restoring sexual behavior to hypogonadal patients has not been established in appropriately controlled behavioral studies. Accordingly, testosterone enanthate or vehicle was injected once every 4 weeks im in a double blind experiment. The subjects were six adult males, aged 32-65 yr, two with gonadal failure and four with secondary hypogonadism. Two doses of testosterone (100 and 400 mg) were administered for approximately 5 months, with the treatments varied at random within and among subjects. Details of sexual activity and experience were followed by the use of daily logs. Frequencies of erections, including nocturnal erections and coitus, showed significant dose-related responses to androgen treatment which closely followed the fluctuations in the circulating testosterone level. As indicated by the Profile of Mood States test, behavioral responses did not appear to be mediated by changes in mood. We concluded that the stimulatory effects of testosterone on sexual activity are rapid, reliable, and not due to a placebo effect. To maintain plasma testosterone and adequate sexual function within normal levels, even high doses of testosterone enanthate should be given no less frequency than once every 3 weeks.", "contents": "Effects of androgen on sexual behavior in hypogonadal men. Despite the widespread use of androgen in the treatment of hypogonadal men, its efficacy in restoring sexual behavior to hypogonadal patients has not been established in appropriately controlled behavioral studies. Accordingly, testosterone enanthate or vehicle was injected once every 4 weeks im in a double blind experiment. The subjects were six adult males, aged 32-65 yr, two with gonadal failure and four with secondary hypogonadism. Two doses of testosterone (100 and 400 mg) were administered for approximately 5 months, with the treatments varied at random within and among subjects. Details of sexual activity and experience were followed by the use of daily logs. Frequencies of erections, including nocturnal erections and coitus, showed significant dose-related responses to androgen treatment which closely followed the fluctuations in the circulating testosterone level. As indicated by the Profile of Mood States test, behavioral responses did not appear to be mediated by changes in mood. We concluded that the stimulatory effects of testosterone on sexual activity are rapid, reliable, and not due to a placebo effect. To maintain plasma testosterone and adequate sexual function within normal levels, even high doses of testosterone enanthate should be given no less frequency than once every 3 weeks.", "PMID": 447801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8246", "title": "Further comparisons of the [125I]somatomedin A and the [125I]somatomedin C radioreceptor assays of somatomedin peptide.", "content": "The GH dependency of somatomedin (SM) peptide content in plasma was assessed using the placental membrane radioreceptor assay (RRA) to measure whole and acid-chromatographed plasma using both [125I]SM A and [125I]SM C. Plasmas from 10 normal children and adults, 11 GH-deficient children before and after therapy with 0.1 U/kg GH im daily for 5 days, and 10 acromegalic patients were assayed as well as a standard plasma pool from 20 healthy adult males. The results of these assays revealed that the SM content of plasma is GH dependent and that assay of whole and acid-chromatographed plasma with the [125I]SM A RRA and assay of acid-chromatographed plasma with the [125I]SM C RRA give comparable measurements of SM peptide content. There was a positive correlation of the [125I]SM A RRAs of whole and acid-chromatographed plasma from each patient (r = 0.87; n = 41; P much less than 0.001). An even stronger positive correlation was observed when the [125I]SM A and [125I]SM C RRAs of acid-chromatographed plasma were compared (r = 0.94; n = 41; P much less than 0.001). Furthermore, it was demonstrated that precise measurement of SM peptide content in plasmas from subjects with abnormal GH states and from normal subjects is enhanced by acid chromatography of the plasma before assay in either the [125I]SM A or [125I]SM C RRA.", "contents": "Further comparisons of the [125I]somatomedin A and the [125I]somatomedin C radioreceptor assays of somatomedin peptide. The GH dependency of somatomedin (SM) peptide content in plasma was assessed using the placental membrane radioreceptor assay (RRA) to measure whole and acid-chromatographed plasma using both [125I]SM A and [125I]SM C. Plasmas from 10 normal children and adults, 11 GH-deficient children before and after therapy with 0.1 U/kg GH im daily for 5 days, and 10 acromegalic patients were assayed as well as a standard plasma pool from 20 healthy adult males. The results of these assays revealed that the SM content of plasma is GH dependent and that assay of whole and acid-chromatographed plasma with the [125I]SM A RRA and assay of acid-chromatographed plasma with the [125I]SM C RRA give comparable measurements of SM peptide content. There was a positive correlation of the [125I]SM A RRAs of whole and acid-chromatographed plasma from each patient (r = 0.87; n = 41; P much less than 0.001). An even stronger positive correlation was observed when the [125I]SM A and [125I]SM C RRAs of acid-chromatographed plasma were compared (r = 0.94; n = 41; P much less than 0.001). Furthermore, it was demonstrated that precise measurement of SM peptide content in plasmas from subjects with abnormal GH states and from normal subjects is enhanced by acid chromatography of the plasma before assay in either the [125I]SM A or [125I]SM C RRA.", "PMID": 447802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8247", "title": "Demonstration by radioligand-binding assay of the structural similarity of a partially synthetic growth hormone recombinant molecule to its natural analog and to native human growth hormone.", "content": "The recombinant resulting from the noncovalent interaction of a natural amino-terminal fragment of reduced and carbamoylmethylated human GH (residues 1-134) with a synthetic carboxyl-terminal fragment of reduced and carbamoyl-methylated human GH (residues 141-191) reacts in seven immunoassay systems and two receptor assay systems in a similar manner and with comparable potency to its naturally occurring analog, but with less avidity overall than does the native hormone. This similarity of reactivity is strong evidence for similarity of conformation among these molecules. The demonstration that a synthetic fragment can restore radioligand-binding properties to a proteolytic fragment of human GH implies that partially synthetic variant GH molecules have biological activity.", "contents": "Demonstration by radioligand-binding assay of the structural similarity of a partially synthetic growth hormone recombinant molecule to its natural analog and to native human growth hormone. The recombinant resulting from the noncovalent interaction of a natural amino-terminal fragment of reduced and carbamoylmethylated human GH (residues 1-134) with a synthetic carboxyl-terminal fragment of reduced and carbamoyl-methylated human GH (residues 141-191) reacts in seven immunoassay systems and two receptor assay systems in a similar manner and with comparable potency to its naturally occurring analog, but with less avidity overall than does the native hormone. This similarity of reactivity is strong evidence for similarity of conformation among these molecules. The demonstration that a synthetic fragment can restore radioligand-binding properties to a proteolytic fragment of human GH implies that partially synthetic variant GH molecules have biological activity.", "PMID": 447803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8248", "title": "Comparative effectiveness of dextrothyroxine and levothyroxine in correcting hypothyroidism and lowering blood lipid levels in hypothyroid patients.", "content": "Data reported here establish that treatment regimens of 4 mg dextrothyroxine and 0.15 mg levothyroxine in hypothyroid subjects produce similar degrees of lowering of serum TSH, cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipid levels and equal stimulation of metabolic rate. The Murphy-Pattee total T4 determination applied to blood samples drawn 24 h after the last dose of dextrothyroxine can be used to assess adequacy of treatment. Correction of hypothyroidism requires high serum levels of dextrothyroxine than of levothyroxine. Serum T3 levels increase in patients treated with dextrothyroxine. In the treatment of hypothyroidism, the cholesterol-lowering and metabolic rate-stimulating effects of dextrothyroxine do not appear to be dissociated. Further studies are needed to determine whether such an effect can be demonstrated in euthyroid hypercholesterolemic subjects with doses established herein as equivalent in terms of the stimulating effect on metabolic rate.", "contents": "Comparative effectiveness of dextrothyroxine and levothyroxine in correcting hypothyroidism and lowering blood lipid levels in hypothyroid patients. Data reported here establish that treatment regimens of 4 mg dextrothyroxine and 0.15 mg levothyroxine in hypothyroid subjects produce similar degrees of lowering of serum TSH, cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipid levels and equal stimulation of metabolic rate. The Murphy-Pattee total T4 determination applied to blood samples drawn 24 h after the last dose of dextrothyroxine can be used to assess adequacy of treatment. Correction of hypothyroidism requires high serum levels of dextrothyroxine than of levothyroxine. Serum T3 levels increase in patients treated with dextrothyroxine. In the treatment of hypothyroidism, the cholesterol-lowering and metabolic rate-stimulating effects of dextrothyroxine do not appear to be dissociated. Further studies are needed to determine whether such an effect can be demonstrated in euthyroid hypercholesterolemic subjects with doses established herein as equivalent in terms of the stimulating effect on metabolic rate.", "PMID": 447807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8249", "title": "The metabolic clearance of aldosterone decreases similarly during infusion of angiotensin II in patients with essential hypertension and in normal subjects.", "content": "To determine if the abnormally large increases in levels of plasma aldosterone which occur during infusion of angiotensin II in some patients with essential hypertension are due to abnormal decreases in the metabolic clearance of aldosterone, we measured clearances of aldosterone before and during infusion of angiotensin II in 12 patients with essential hypertension and in 10 normal subjects. The metabolic clearance of aldosterone in the patients and that in the normal subjects were the same before angiotensin II was infused and the clearances decreased similarly during infusion of angiotensin II. In agreement with our previous observations, the plasma aldosterone responses to angiotensin II were greater than normal in most of the patients with low renin essential hypertension. Thus, the brisk increases in levels of plasma aldosterone during infusion of angiotensin II in patients with essential hypertension reflect abnormally large increases in the secretion of aldosterone. These results add further support to the idea that adrenal sensitivity to angiotensin II is increased in some patients with essential hypertension.", "contents": "The metabolic clearance of aldosterone decreases similarly during infusion of angiotensin II in patients with essential hypertension and in normal subjects. To determine if the abnormally large increases in levels of plasma aldosterone which occur during infusion of angiotensin II in some patients with essential hypertension are due to abnormal decreases in the metabolic clearance of aldosterone, we measured clearances of aldosterone before and during infusion of angiotensin II in 12 patients with essential hypertension and in 10 normal subjects. The metabolic clearance of aldosterone in the patients and that in the normal subjects were the same before angiotensin II was infused and the clearances decreased similarly during infusion of angiotensin II. In agreement with our previous observations, the plasma aldosterone responses to angiotensin II were greater than normal in most of the patients with low renin essential hypertension. Thus, the brisk increases in levels of plasma aldosterone during infusion of angiotensin II in patients with essential hypertension reflect abnormally large increases in the secretion of aldosterone. These results add further support to the idea that adrenal sensitivity to angiotensin II is increased in some patients with essential hypertension.", "PMID": 447808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8250", "title": "Leydig cell responsiveness to single and repeated human chorionic gonadotropin administration.", "content": "A single im injection of 1500 IU hCG significantly increased plasma testosterone levels for at least 96--120 h in normal men (n = 7), patients with isolated gonadotropin deficiency (n = 6), and boys with delayed puberty (n = 7); the maximum values [1315 +/- 309, 370 +/- 177, and 963 +/- 249 ng/100 ml (mean +/- SD), respectively] were achieved after 72 h in each group. Repeated daily injections of 1500 IU hCG for 3 days increased plasma testosterone levels in the same subjects at 72 h after the start to levels (1342 +/- 412, 407 +/- 199, and 1052 +/- 449 ng/100 ml, respectively) similar to those found in the single dose experiment. The levels achieved at 24 and 48 h also did not differ significantly in the two experiments. The data indicate the lack of additional leydig cell stimulation by repeated hCG injections given within 48 h after a single dose.", "contents": "Leydig cell responsiveness to single and repeated human chorionic gonadotropin administration. A single im injection of 1500 IU hCG significantly increased plasma testosterone levels for at least 96--120 h in normal men (n = 7), patients with isolated gonadotropin deficiency (n = 6), and boys with delayed puberty (n = 7); the maximum values [1315 +/- 309, 370 +/- 177, and 963 +/- 249 ng/100 ml (mean +/- SD), respectively] were achieved after 72 h in each group. Repeated daily injections of 1500 IU hCG for 3 days increased plasma testosterone levels in the same subjects at 72 h after the start to levels (1342 +/- 412, 407 +/- 199, and 1052 +/- 449 ng/100 ml, respectively) similar to those found in the single dose experiment. The levels achieved at 24 and 48 h also did not differ significantly in the two experiments. The data indicate the lack of additional leydig cell stimulation by repeated hCG injections given within 48 h after a single dose.", "PMID": 447810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8251", "title": "Pattern of the response of testosterone and its precursors to human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation in relation to age in infants and children.", "content": "The pattern of response to 14-day hCG stimulation was studied in 100 apparently normal infants and children and in 2 boys with total adrenal insufficiency. Response was estimated on the levels (nanograms per dl) of testosterone (T), delta4-androstenedione (delta4), and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) before and after hCG. Basal levels of T, delta4, and 17OHP increased significantly after 9--10 yr of age and before the onset of puberty. It would thus appear that the changes of adrenarche are also expressed by the secretion of delta4 androgens. After hCG, levels of T (629 +/- 218) did not vary with age in infants or prepubertal children but increased significantly at the onset of puberty (1265 +/- 253). Post-hCG levels of delta4 and 17OHP increased with age, but their increments (respectively, 31.1 +/- 14.6 and 108.6 +/- 42.2) did not vary between 2--12 yr of age. On the other hand, the rise of delta4 after hCG tended to be higher in infancy and early pubescence. These data suggest that 1) testicular unresponsiveness to gonadotropins does not seem to be responsible for the postnatal decline of testicular activity; 2) during the prepubertal period there are no age-related changes in the absolute rises of T, delta4, or 17OHP levels after hCG stimulation; and 3) increasing sensitivity of the testis to gonadotropic stimulation appears to be one of the very first changes occurring at the onset of puberty.", "contents": "Pattern of the response of testosterone and its precursors to human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation in relation to age in infants and children. The pattern of response to 14-day hCG stimulation was studied in 100 apparently normal infants and children and in 2 boys with total adrenal insufficiency. Response was estimated on the levels (nanograms per dl) of testosterone (T), delta4-androstenedione (delta4), and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) before and after hCG. Basal levels of T, delta4, and 17OHP increased significantly after 9--10 yr of age and before the onset of puberty. It would thus appear that the changes of adrenarche are also expressed by the secretion of delta4 androgens. After hCG, levels of T (629 +/- 218) did not vary with age in infants or prepubertal children but increased significantly at the onset of puberty (1265 +/- 253). Post-hCG levels of delta4 and 17OHP increased with age, but their increments (respectively, 31.1 +/- 14.6 and 108.6 +/- 42.2) did not vary between 2--12 yr of age. On the other hand, the rise of delta4 after hCG tended to be higher in infancy and early pubescence. These data suggest that 1) testicular unresponsiveness to gonadotropins does not seem to be responsible for the postnatal decline of testicular activity; 2) during the prepubertal period there are no age-related changes in the absolute rises of T, delta4, or 17OHP levels after hCG stimulation; and 3) increasing sensitivity of the testis to gonadotropic stimulation appears to be one of the very first changes occurring at the onset of puberty.", "PMID": 447811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8252", "title": "Plasma melatonin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, and corticoids in two patients with pinealoma.", "content": "Plasma melatonin, LH, FSH, PRL, and corticoids were measured in two patients with pineal tumors. Plasma melatonin was not detectable (less than 7 pg/ml) in either patient while gonadotropin and cortisol levels were within the normal range. One patient exhibited low PRL levels and the other patient, a prepubertal boy, had elevated levels. The clinical value of the measurement of melatonin as a potential marker for all pineal tumors must be questioned.", "contents": "Plasma melatonin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, and corticoids in two patients with pinealoma. Plasma melatonin, LH, FSH, PRL, and corticoids were measured in two patients with pineal tumors. Plasma melatonin was not detectable (less than 7 pg/ml) in either patient while gonadotropin and cortisol levels were within the normal range. One patient exhibited low PRL levels and the other patient, a prepubertal boy, had elevated levels. The clinical value of the measurement of melatonin as a potential marker for all pineal tumors must be questioned.", "PMID": 447812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8253", "title": "LH, FSH and skin temperaure during the menopausal hot flash.", "content": "Six postmenopausal women, who were experiencing frequent hot flashes, had an 8 h continuous recording of skin temperature over the dorsum of the finger as an objective index of hot flashes. Frequent blood samples were obtained during the time of the recording for the measurement of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. During the 48 h of recording 34 significant temperature elevations were recorded and 32 were associated with a subjective hot flash. 3l pulses of LH release were also observed with 26 occurring simultaneously with the temperature rises. Correlation analysis of simultaneous skin temperature and circulating LH levels showed a significant positive correlation (p less than 0.01). FSH levels showed no consistent relationship with skin temperature. These data suggest that LH or the factors that trigger its pulsatile release are related to the mechanism responsible for the initiation of hot flashes.", "contents": "LH, FSH and skin temperaure during the menopausal hot flash. Six postmenopausal women, who were experiencing frequent hot flashes, had an 8 h continuous recording of skin temperature over the dorsum of the finger as an objective index of hot flashes. Frequent blood samples were obtained during the time of the recording for the measurement of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. During the 48 h of recording 34 significant temperature elevations were recorded and 32 were associated with a subjective hot flash. 3l pulses of LH release were also observed with 26 occurring simultaneously with the temperature rises. Correlation analysis of simultaneous skin temperature and circulating LH levels showed a significant positive correlation (p less than 0.01). FSH levels showed no consistent relationship with skin temperature. These data suggest that LH or the factors that trigger its pulsatile release are related to the mechanism responsible for the initiation of hot flashes.", "PMID": 447814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8254", "title": "Effect of melatonin on L-tryptophan- and apomorphine-stimulated growth hormone secretion in man.", "content": "The effect of subacute melatonin (250 mg every 8 h over a period of 40 h) and placebo treatment on L-tryptophan- and apomorphine-stimulated GH secretion was tested in 13 volunteers. Melatonin premedication significantly reduced the GH response to peroral L-tryptophan loading, suggesting that melatonin affects GH secretion in man by interfering with serotonergic transmission. In the apomorphine test, no significant difference in GH response was observed after melatonin when compared to placebo treatment. This suggests that dopaminergic mechanisms do not have a central role in mediating actions of melatonin on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. It is further proposed that melatonin influences GH secretion at a suprahypophyseal level.", "contents": "Effect of melatonin on L-tryptophan- and apomorphine-stimulated growth hormone secretion in man. The effect of subacute melatonin (250 mg every 8 h over a period of 40 h) and placebo treatment on L-tryptophan- and apomorphine-stimulated GH secretion was tested in 13 volunteers. Melatonin premedication significantly reduced the GH response to peroral L-tryptophan loading, suggesting that melatonin affects GH secretion in man by interfering with serotonergic transmission. In the apomorphine test, no significant difference in GH response was observed after melatonin when compared to placebo treatment. This suggests that dopaminergic mechanisms do not have a central role in mediating actions of melatonin on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. It is further proposed that melatonin influences GH secretion at a suprahypophyseal level.", "PMID": 447817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8255", "title": "The significance of elevated levels of plasma 18-hydroxycorticosterone in patients with primary aldosteronism.", "content": "Plasma 18-hydroxycorticosterone (180HB) concentration was measured in 23 patients with primary aldosteronism. After overnight recumbency, the levels were markedly elevated and were 6 times higher in patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas than in patients with hyperplasia. A value of 100 ng/dl or greater at 0800 h after overnight recumbency distinguished an adenoma from hyperplasia. There was no overlap of values, as was observed with plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) at 0800 h and after 4 h of upright posture at 1200 h. There was a significant negative correlation between the ratio of 180HB to PAC and the potassium concentration in patients with primary aldosteronism due to hyperplasia. Potassium repletion with potassium chloride and/or spironolactone in patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas decreased the 180HB:PAC ratio by decreasing 180HB and increasing PAC. 180HB is an effective discriminator of an adenoma and may be a useful marker of the events in late aldosterone synthesis.", "contents": "The significance of elevated levels of plasma 18-hydroxycorticosterone in patients with primary aldosteronism. Plasma 18-hydroxycorticosterone (180HB) concentration was measured in 23 patients with primary aldosteronism. After overnight recumbency, the levels were markedly elevated and were 6 times higher in patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas than in patients with hyperplasia. A value of 100 ng/dl or greater at 0800 h after overnight recumbency distinguished an adenoma from hyperplasia. There was no overlap of values, as was observed with plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) at 0800 h and after 4 h of upright posture at 1200 h. There was a significant negative correlation between the ratio of 180HB to PAC and the potassium concentration in patients with primary aldosteronism due to hyperplasia. Potassium repletion with potassium chloride and/or spironolactone in patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas decreased the 180HB:PAC ratio by decreasing 180HB and increasing PAC. 180HB is an effective discriminator of an adenoma and may be a useful marker of the events in late aldosterone synthesis.", "PMID": 447820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8256", "title": "Human platelets and factor XI. Localization in platelet membranes of factor XI-like activity and its functional distinction from plasma factor XI.", "content": "Because human platelets participate in the contact phase of intrinsic coagulation and contain a Factor XI-like coagulant activity, the nature of the Factor XI-like activity was examined and compared with purified plasma Factor XI. The platelet factor XI-like activity was sedimented with the particulate fraction of a platelet lysate, was inactivated by heat (t(1/2) 3.5 min, 56 degrees C), was not a nonspecific phospholipid activity, and was destroyed by treatment with Triton X-100. Isolated platelet membranes were four-fold enriched in Factor XI activity and similarly enriched in plasma membrane marker enzymes. The Factor XI-like activity of platelet membranes was detected only when assayed in the presence of kaolin, which suggests that it is present in an unactivated form and can participate in contact activation. Concanavalin A inhibited the Factor XI-like activity of platelet lysates and platelet membranes but not of plasma or purified Factor XI. A platelet membrane-Factor XI complex was isolated after incubation of membranes with purified Factor XI. The Factor XI activity of the platelet membrane-plasma Factor XI complex was inhibited by concanavalin A, whereas unbound plasma Factor XI retained activity. An antibody raised against plasma Factor XI inhibited the in vitro Factor XI activity of plasma and of the platelet membrane-plasma Factor XI complex but had no effect on the endogenous Factor XI-like activity of washed lysed platelets or isolated platelet membranes. Washed platelets and isolated platelet membranes obtained from a Factor XI-deficient donor without a history of excessive bleeding had normal quantities of platelet Factor XI-like activity and normal behavior in the contact phase of coagulation (collagen-induced coagulant activity). These results indicate that platelet membranes contain an endogenous Factor XI-like activity that is functionally distinct from plasma Factor XI.", "contents": "Human platelets and factor XI. Localization in platelet membranes of factor XI-like activity and its functional distinction from plasma factor XI. Because human platelets participate in the contact phase of intrinsic coagulation and contain a Factor XI-like coagulant activity, the nature of the Factor XI-like activity was examined and compared with purified plasma Factor XI. The platelet factor XI-like activity was sedimented with the particulate fraction of a platelet lysate, was inactivated by heat (t(1/2) 3.5 min, 56 degrees C), was not a nonspecific phospholipid activity, and was destroyed by treatment with Triton X-100. Isolated platelet membranes were four-fold enriched in Factor XI activity and similarly enriched in plasma membrane marker enzymes. The Factor XI-like activity of platelet membranes was detected only when assayed in the presence of kaolin, which suggests that it is present in an unactivated form and can participate in contact activation. Concanavalin A inhibited the Factor XI-like activity of platelet lysates and platelet membranes but not of plasma or purified Factor XI. A platelet membrane-Factor XI complex was isolated after incubation of membranes with purified Factor XI. The Factor XI activity of the platelet membrane-plasma Factor XI complex was inhibited by concanavalin A, whereas unbound plasma Factor XI retained activity. An antibody raised against plasma Factor XI inhibited the in vitro Factor XI activity of plasma and of the platelet membrane-plasma Factor XI complex but had no effect on the endogenous Factor XI-like activity of washed lysed platelets or isolated platelet membranes. Washed platelets and isolated platelet membranes obtained from a Factor XI-deficient donor without a history of excessive bleeding had normal quantities of platelet Factor XI-like activity and normal behavior in the contact phase of coagulation (collagen-induced coagulant activity). These results indicate that platelet membranes contain an endogenous Factor XI-like activity that is functionally distinct from plasma Factor XI.", "PMID": 447822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8257", "title": "Increased surface tension favors pulmonary edema formation in anesthetized dogs' lungs.", "content": "The possibility that surface tension may affect the hydrostatic transmural pressure of pulmonary vessels and the development of pulmonary edema was studied in anesthetized, open-chested dogs. Isogravimetric pressure (the static intravascular pressure at which transmural osmotic and hydrostatic pressures are balanced such that net fluid flux is zero and lung weight is constant) was measured in nine animals under three conditions: (a) control, normal surface tension, at an alveolar pressure of 30 cm H2O with the apenic lung at room temperature; (b) after increasing surface tension by cooling and ventilating at a low functional residual capacity, at an alveolar pressure sufficient to produce the same lung volume present during control measurements; and (c) after restoring surface tension by rewarming while holding the lung at a high inflation volume, again at the control lung volume. Lung volumes were established from external dimensions and confirmed +/- 10% by deflation spirometry. The isogravimetric pressure (relative to alveolar pressure) was significantly less with increased surface tension than during either the initial control condition (P less than 0.01), or when the surface tension has been restored (P less than 0.01). Similar changes occurred in each of three additional studies performed with control alveolar pressures of 10 cm H2O. Thus, increased surface tension favors fluid leakage presumably because it increases the microvascular transmural pressure.", "contents": "Increased surface tension favors pulmonary edema formation in anesthetized dogs' lungs. The possibility that surface tension may affect the hydrostatic transmural pressure of pulmonary vessels and the development of pulmonary edema was studied in anesthetized, open-chested dogs. Isogravimetric pressure (the static intravascular pressure at which transmural osmotic and hydrostatic pressures are balanced such that net fluid flux is zero and lung weight is constant) was measured in nine animals under three conditions: (a) control, normal surface tension, at an alveolar pressure of 30 cm H2O with the apenic lung at room temperature; (b) after increasing surface tension by cooling and ventilating at a low functional residual capacity, at an alveolar pressure sufficient to produce the same lung volume present during control measurements; and (c) after restoring surface tension by rewarming while holding the lung at a high inflation volume, again at the control lung volume. Lung volumes were established from external dimensions and confirmed +/- 10% by deflation spirometry. The isogravimetric pressure (relative to alveolar pressure) was significantly less with increased surface tension than during either the initial control condition (P less than 0.01), or when the surface tension has been restored (P less than 0.01). Similar changes occurred in each of three additional studies performed with control alveolar pressures of 10 cm H2O. Thus, increased surface tension favors fluid leakage presumably because it increases the microvascular transmural pressure.", "PMID": 447823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8258", "title": "Folate distribution in cultured human cells. Studies on 5,10-CH2-H4PteGlu reductase deficiency.", "content": "We have studied the distribution of folate coenzyme forms in cultured human fibroblasts from control lines and from lines derived from nine patients representing all of the published reports of 5,10-CH(2)-H(4)PteGlu reductase deficiency. Based on mobility on DEAE-Sephadex and differential microbiological assay the major folate fractions in extracts of human fibroblasts were 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, 10-CHO-H(4)PteGlu, and 5-CHO-H(4)PteGlu with smaller fractions, which included 5-CH(3)-H(2)PteGlu, 10-CHO-PteGlu, and H(4)PteGlu. Evidence that the 5-CHO-H(4)PteGlu may have been derived from 5,10-CH=H(4)PteGlu during extraction is presented. In most of the mutant fibroblasts the absolute concentration of 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu was lower than in control cells but the proportion of intracellular folate which was 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu was strikingly lower in mutant cells when determined by chromatography or differential microbiological assay. In both control and mutant cells most of the 5-CH(3)-H(4)-PteGlu was polyglutamate. The proportion of intracellular folate which was polyglutamate was similar in control and mutant cells. A direct relationship was observed between the proportion of cellular folate which was 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, and both the clinical severity of this disorder and the residual enzyme activity indicating that the distribution of different folates may be an important control of intracellular folate metabolism. These studies indicate that 5,10-CH(2)-H(4)PteGlu reductase is the only significant intracellular pathway for the generation of 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, that the activity of this enzyme regulates the level of this folate in control and mutant cells under conditions of culture used here, that the majority of intracellular folate is in the polyglutamate form, and that the relative distribution of folates may control folate metabolism by interaction in the various folate reactions.", "contents": "Folate distribution in cultured human cells. Studies on 5,10-CH2-H4PteGlu reductase deficiency. We have studied the distribution of folate coenzyme forms in cultured human fibroblasts from control lines and from lines derived from nine patients representing all of the published reports of 5,10-CH(2)-H(4)PteGlu reductase deficiency. Based on mobility on DEAE-Sephadex and differential microbiological assay the major folate fractions in extracts of human fibroblasts were 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, 10-CHO-H(4)PteGlu, and 5-CHO-H(4)PteGlu with smaller fractions, which included 5-CH(3)-H(2)PteGlu, 10-CHO-PteGlu, and H(4)PteGlu. Evidence that the 5-CHO-H(4)PteGlu may have been derived from 5,10-CH=H(4)PteGlu during extraction is presented. In most of the mutant fibroblasts the absolute concentration of 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu was lower than in control cells but the proportion of intracellular folate which was 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu was strikingly lower in mutant cells when determined by chromatography or differential microbiological assay. In both control and mutant cells most of the 5-CH(3)-H(4)-PteGlu was polyglutamate. The proportion of intracellular folate which was polyglutamate was similar in control and mutant cells. A direct relationship was observed between the proportion of cellular folate which was 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, and both the clinical severity of this disorder and the residual enzyme activity indicating that the distribution of different folates may be an important control of intracellular folate metabolism. These studies indicate that 5,10-CH(2)-H(4)PteGlu reductase is the only significant intracellular pathway for the generation of 5-CH(3)-H(4)PteGlu, that the activity of this enzyme regulates the level of this folate in control and mutant cells under conditions of culture used here, that the majority of intracellular folate is in the polyglutamate form, and that the relative distribution of folates may control folate metabolism by interaction in the various folate reactions.", "PMID": 447824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8259", "title": "Manometry of the normal upper esophageal sphincter and its alterations in laryngectomy.", "content": "Rapid pull-through pressure profiles of the normal human upper esophageal sphincter (UES) were simultaneously studied with a conventional three-orifice Honeywell solid-state probe, an eight lumen radially perfused (RP) probe, and a circumferentially sensitive (CS) probe designed to measure UES pressure (UESP) without regard to probe orientation. Pressure curves were digitized and analyzed by computer. The Honeywell probe recorded significantly lower peak pressures than the other two methods, and had wide intrasubject pressure variations (average coefficient of variation, 53%). In contrast, UESP measured with the CS probe was constant for each subject (mean peak UESP, 121 mm Hg; average coefficient of variation, 15%). Anteroposterior RP probe UESP were identical to CS probe pressures. Thus, peak perfused anteroposterior UESP correlates with circumferentially measured sphincter squeeze.Computer programs were written that allowed RP probe pressures to be mapped in three dimensions. Normal three-dimensional maps were characterized by anteroposterior accentuation of peak pressures and also by consistent axial asymmetry with anterior peak pressures occurring 0.8+/-0.2 cm closer to the pharynx. After defining the normal two- and three-dimensional UESP configuration, patients who had undergone laryngectomy were studied. Peak pressures measured with the RP probe decreased to congruent with50 mm Hg and radial pressure asymmetry vanished. Like normals, CS probe pressures corresponded to peak RP probe pressures. UES length did not change significantly. Three-dimensional mapping showed that axial asymmetry also vanished. It therefore appears that the anatomic alterations produced by laryngectomy abolishes UESP asymmetry.", "contents": "Manometry of the normal upper esophageal sphincter and its alterations in laryngectomy. Rapid pull-through pressure profiles of the normal human upper esophageal sphincter (UES) were simultaneously studied with a conventional three-orifice Honeywell solid-state probe, an eight lumen radially perfused (RP) probe, and a circumferentially sensitive (CS) probe designed to measure UES pressure (UESP) without regard to probe orientation. Pressure curves were digitized and analyzed by computer. The Honeywell probe recorded significantly lower peak pressures than the other two methods, and had wide intrasubject pressure variations (average coefficient of variation, 53%). In contrast, UESP measured with the CS probe was constant for each subject (mean peak UESP, 121 mm Hg; average coefficient of variation, 15%). Anteroposterior RP probe UESP were identical to CS probe pressures. Thus, peak perfused anteroposterior UESP correlates with circumferentially measured sphincter squeeze.Computer programs were written that allowed RP probe pressures to be mapped in three dimensions. Normal three-dimensional maps were characterized by anteroposterior accentuation of peak pressures and also by consistent axial asymmetry with anterior peak pressures occurring 0.8+/-0.2 cm closer to the pharynx. After defining the normal two- and three-dimensional UESP configuration, patients who had undergone laryngectomy were studied. Peak pressures measured with the RP probe decreased to congruent with50 mm Hg and radial pressure asymmetry vanished. Like normals, CS probe pressures corresponded to peak RP probe pressures. UES length did not change significantly. Three-dimensional mapping showed that axial asymmetry also vanished. It therefore appears that the anatomic alterations produced by laryngectomy abolishes UESP asymmetry.", "PMID": 447825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8260", "title": "Taurocholate pool size and distribution in the fetal rat.", "content": "Taurocholate concentrations in fetal and neonatal rats were determined by radioimmunoassay. Total body taurocholate pool size varied from 0.0049 +/- 0.0008 to 203 +/- 8 nmol/g body weight from day 5 of gestation to 5 d after birth. A 50-fold increase in taurocholate pool size was observed between days 15 and 19 of gestation. The distribution of taurocholate between liver, intestine, and the remainder of the carcass was determined for rats of gestational age 19 d to 5 d after birth. The major fraction of total body taurocholate was in the liver and intestine, with less than 15% in the remainder of the carcass. The ratio of taurocholate in intestine to taurocholate in liver, which was 1:17 at 19 d of gestation, had altered substantially to a ratio of 6:1 by 5 d after birth. Treatment of pregnant rats with 60 microgram/d of dexamethasone from gestational day 9 until sacrifice increased fetal taurocholate pool size by 80% at 15 d, 40% at 19 d, and 16% at 1 d after birth. Administration of dexamethasone to the mother also changed the ratio of taurocholate in intestine to taurocholate in liver. At 19 d of gestation, dexamethasone-treated mothers had fetuses with approximately equal amounts of taurocholate in intestine and liver. This suggested that adrenocorticosteroids stimulate the early maturation of factors controlling taurocholate pool size and tissue distribution in the rat fetus.", "contents": "Taurocholate pool size and distribution in the fetal rat. Taurocholate concentrations in fetal and neonatal rats were determined by radioimmunoassay. Total body taurocholate pool size varied from 0.0049 +/- 0.0008 to 203 +/- 8 nmol/g body weight from day 5 of gestation to 5 d after birth. A 50-fold increase in taurocholate pool size was observed between days 15 and 19 of gestation. The distribution of taurocholate between liver, intestine, and the remainder of the carcass was determined for rats of gestational age 19 d to 5 d after birth. The major fraction of total body taurocholate was in the liver and intestine, with less than 15% in the remainder of the carcass. The ratio of taurocholate in intestine to taurocholate in liver, which was 1:17 at 19 d of gestation, had altered substantially to a ratio of 6:1 by 5 d after birth. Treatment of pregnant rats with 60 microgram/d of dexamethasone from gestational day 9 until sacrifice increased fetal taurocholate pool size by 80% at 15 d, 40% at 19 d, and 16% at 1 d after birth. Administration of dexamethasone to the mother also changed the ratio of taurocholate in intestine to taurocholate in liver. At 19 d of gestation, dexamethasone-treated mothers had fetuses with approximately equal amounts of taurocholate in intestine and liver. This suggested that adrenocorticosteroids stimulate the early maturation of factors controlling taurocholate pool size and tissue distribution in the rat fetus.", "PMID": 447826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8261", "title": "Characterization of circulating insulin and proinsulin-binding antibodies in autoimmune hypoglycemia.", "content": "Five patients with fasting and(or) postprandial hypoglycemia were found to have insulin antibodies in the absence of previously documented immunization. Studies on the equilibrium-binding of insulin to the autoantibodies revealed two classes of binding sites with association constants and binding capacities analogous to those of insulin antibodies from insulin-treated diabetic patients. Similarly, no consistent differences in these parameters were found in both groups of patients with insulins of bovine, porcine, and human origin. Proinsulin (C-segment directed) antibodies capable of binding bovine or porcine proinsulin were present in 10 of 10 and 9 of 10 insulin-treated diabetics serving as controls, respectively, and, when present, provide incontrovertible evidence of exogenous insulin administration. No such antibodies could be detected in the hypoglycemic patients with autoimmune insulin antibodies. The kinetics of dissociation of the insulin-antibody complexes were consistent with the existence of two classes of antibody sites. The corresponding dissociation rate constants were large enough to predict that significant amounts of free hormone may be generated by this mechanism and provide a plausible pathogenesis for the hypoglycemia in these patients.", "contents": "Characterization of circulating insulin and proinsulin-binding antibodies in autoimmune hypoglycemia. Five patients with fasting and(or) postprandial hypoglycemia were found to have insulin antibodies in the absence of previously documented immunization. Studies on the equilibrium-binding of insulin to the autoantibodies revealed two classes of binding sites with association constants and binding capacities analogous to those of insulin antibodies from insulin-treated diabetic patients. Similarly, no consistent differences in these parameters were found in both groups of patients with insulins of bovine, porcine, and human origin. Proinsulin (C-segment directed) antibodies capable of binding bovine or porcine proinsulin were present in 10 of 10 and 9 of 10 insulin-treated diabetics serving as controls, respectively, and, when present, provide incontrovertible evidence of exogenous insulin administration. No such antibodies could be detected in the hypoglycemic patients with autoimmune insulin antibodies. The kinetics of dissociation of the insulin-antibody complexes were consistent with the existence of two classes of antibody sites. The corresponding dissociation rate constants were large enough to predict that significant amounts of free hormone may be generated by this mechanism and provide a plausible pathogenesis for the hypoglycemia in these patients.", "PMID": 447827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8262", "title": "Demonstration and partial characterization of insulin receptors in human platelets.", "content": "Recently, evidence has been reported to suggest that human platelets like several other circulating blood cells may bind insulin. To examine whether human platelets contain specific insulin receptors, washed human platelets suspended in Hepes buffer were incubated at 24 degrees C with 125I-insulin in the presence and absence of unlabeled insulin and specific insulin binding was determined. Insulin binding by platelets increased progressively with time of incubation to reach a maximum at 3 h and was proportional to the number of platelets in the incubation mixture. Maximum insulin binding was observed at pH 8. Insulin degradation by platelets as assessed by TCA precipitability and reincubation studies was minimal. Scatchard analysis of the binding data and dissociation studies revealed evidence of negative cooperativity of the platelet insulin receptor. A high affinity dissociation constant of approximately equal to 3 X 10(9) M-1 was determined and the concentration of platelet insulin receptors was estimated as 25 binding sites/micron2 platelet surface area. Binding of 125I-insulin by platelets was inhibited by unlabeled porcine insulin and to a lesser extent by catfish insulin and porcine proinsulin but not by glucagon, prolactin, growth hormone, and thrombin. The findings indicate that human platelets contain specific insulin receptors. The significance of the platelet insulin receptor, particularly with respect to altered platelet function in diabetes mellitus, remains to be determined.", "contents": "Demonstration and partial characterization of insulin receptors in human platelets. Recently, evidence has been reported to suggest that human platelets like several other circulating blood cells may bind insulin. To examine whether human platelets contain specific insulin receptors, washed human platelets suspended in Hepes buffer were incubated at 24 degrees C with 125I-insulin in the presence and absence of unlabeled insulin and specific insulin binding was determined. Insulin binding by platelets increased progressively with time of incubation to reach a maximum at 3 h and was proportional to the number of platelets in the incubation mixture. Maximum insulin binding was observed at pH 8. Insulin degradation by platelets as assessed by TCA precipitability and reincubation studies was minimal. Scatchard analysis of the binding data and dissociation studies revealed evidence of negative cooperativity of the platelet insulin receptor. A high affinity dissociation constant of approximately equal to 3 X 10(9) M-1 was determined and the concentration of platelet insulin receptors was estimated as 25 binding sites/micron2 platelet surface area. Binding of 125I-insulin by platelets was inhibited by unlabeled porcine insulin and to a lesser extent by catfish insulin and porcine proinsulin but not by glucagon, prolactin, growth hormone, and thrombin. The findings indicate that human platelets contain specific insulin receptors. The significance of the platelet insulin receptor, particularly with respect to altered platelet function in diabetes mellitus, remains to be determined.", "PMID": 447828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8263", "title": "Inhibition of the action of nonsuppressible insulin-like activity on isolated rat fat cells by binding to its carrier protein.", "content": "Nonsuppressible insulin-like activity extracted and purified from human serum (NSILA-S) mimics all insulin-like effects in vitro and, after injection, in vivo in the presence of excess insulin antibodies. However, there is no evidence that it exerts acute insulin-like effects in its native form in the circulation, where it is almost completely bound to a specific large molecular weight carrier protein. In this paper we show that partially purified NSILA-S-carrier protein, devoid of endogenous insulin-like activity, inhibits the stimulatory effect of NSILA-S, but not of insulin, on 3-0-methylglucose transport and on lipogenesis from [U-(14)C]glucose in isolated rat fat cells. Concomitantly, it prevents binding of (125)I-labeled NSILA-S to the insulin receptor and to the NSILA-S-binding site. The following explanation is, therefore, offered for the absence of acute insulin-like effects of native NSILA-S in vivo: In native serum NSILA-S occurs almost exclusively as NSILA-S-carrier complex. According to recent findings the passage of this complex through blood capillaries is restricted. The present results indicate that, in addition, it is metabolically inactive, or, at least, possesses reduced metabolic activity. The well-known phenomenon that whole serum, nevertheless, exerts pronounced nonsuppressible insulin-like effects on adipose tissue in vitro seems, therefore, to be mainly caused by the presence of a large molecular weight insulin-like protein not identical to the NSILA-S-carrier complex.", "contents": "Inhibition of the action of nonsuppressible insulin-like activity on isolated rat fat cells by binding to its carrier protein. Nonsuppressible insulin-like activity extracted and purified from human serum (NSILA-S) mimics all insulin-like effects in vitro and, after injection, in vivo in the presence of excess insulin antibodies. However, there is no evidence that it exerts acute insulin-like effects in its native form in the circulation, where it is almost completely bound to a specific large molecular weight carrier protein. In this paper we show that partially purified NSILA-S-carrier protein, devoid of endogenous insulin-like activity, inhibits the stimulatory effect of NSILA-S, but not of insulin, on 3-0-methylglucose transport and on lipogenesis from [U-(14)C]glucose in isolated rat fat cells. Concomitantly, it prevents binding of (125)I-labeled NSILA-S to the insulin receptor and to the NSILA-S-binding site. The following explanation is, therefore, offered for the absence of acute insulin-like effects of native NSILA-S in vivo: In native serum NSILA-S occurs almost exclusively as NSILA-S-carrier complex. According to recent findings the passage of this complex through blood capillaries is restricted. The present results indicate that, in addition, it is metabolically inactive, or, at least, possesses reduced metabolic activity. The well-known phenomenon that whole serum, nevertheless, exerts pronounced nonsuppressible insulin-like effects on adipose tissue in vitro seems, therefore, to be mainly caused by the presence of a large molecular weight insulin-like protein not identical to the NSILA-S-carrier complex.", "PMID": 447829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8264", "title": "Glucagon immunoreactivities and amino acid profile in plasma of duodenopancreatectomized patients.", "content": "Glucogon immunoreactivity (IRG) was measured in plasma of duodenopancreatectomized subjects with a nonspecific (K-4023) and a specific (30-K) glucagon antiserum. After an overnight fast, plasma IRG (K-4023) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the subjects without pancreas, averaging 782+/-79 (SEM) pgeq/ml, than in the controls (482+/-80 pgeq/ml). IRG (30-K) of 162+/-68 pg/ml did not change during an infusion of arginine (450 mg/kg per 40 min). Insulin deprivation during 3 d in one patient did not restore the IRG response to arginine as reported in depancreatized dogs.Bio-Gel P-30 column chromatography revealed that virtually all IRG (30-K) measured in whole plasma was of different molecular weight than glucagon, and primarily of a mol wt >/= 40,000. Intravenous arginine did not significantly alter the chromatographic pattern of these plasmas. Thus, as postulated by others, duodeno-pancreatectomized humans have virtually no circulating 3,500-dalton glucagon. Hence, the presence of 3,500-dalton glucagon in plasma is not a condition for the diabetic state. It might, nevertheless, when present in normal or excessive amounts, worsen the metabolic state of diabetic patients. Among 14 amino acids measured in plasma of these patients, the concentrations of alanine, serine, ornithine, and arginine were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated to approximately twice that of normal: alanine and serine are both substrates for gluconeogenesis, whereas ornithine and arginine are involved in the formation of urea, the second product of hepatic gluconeogenesis. As the concentrations of branched chain amino acids were not grossly altered, it is hypothesized that this amino acid pattern is a consequence of glucagon deficiency rather than secondary to the diabetic state of these patients.", "contents": "Glucagon immunoreactivities and amino acid profile in plasma of duodenopancreatectomized patients. Glucogon immunoreactivity (IRG) was measured in plasma of duodenopancreatectomized subjects with a nonspecific (K-4023) and a specific (30-K) glucagon antiserum. After an overnight fast, plasma IRG (K-4023) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the subjects without pancreas, averaging 782+/-79 (SEM) pgeq/ml, than in the controls (482+/-80 pgeq/ml). IRG (30-K) of 162+/-68 pg/ml did not change during an infusion of arginine (450 mg/kg per 40 min). Insulin deprivation during 3 d in one patient did not restore the IRG response to arginine as reported in depancreatized dogs.Bio-Gel P-30 column chromatography revealed that virtually all IRG (30-K) measured in whole plasma was of different molecular weight than glucagon, and primarily of a mol wt >/= 40,000. Intravenous arginine did not significantly alter the chromatographic pattern of these plasmas. Thus, as postulated by others, duodeno-pancreatectomized humans have virtually no circulating 3,500-dalton glucagon. Hence, the presence of 3,500-dalton glucagon in plasma is not a condition for the diabetic state. It might, nevertheless, when present in normal or excessive amounts, worsen the metabolic state of diabetic patients. Among 14 amino acids measured in plasma of these patients, the concentrations of alanine, serine, ornithine, and arginine were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated to approximately twice that of normal: alanine and serine are both substrates for gluconeogenesis, whereas ornithine and arginine are involved in the formation of urea, the second product of hepatic gluconeogenesis. As the concentrations of branched chain amino acids were not grossly altered, it is hypothesized that this amino acid pattern is a consequence of glucagon deficiency rather than secondary to the diabetic state of these patients.", "PMID": 447830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8265", "title": "Amine content of vaginal fluid from untreated and treated patients with nonspecific vaginitis.", "content": "We examined the vaginal washings from patients with nonspecific vaginitis (NSV) to seek biochemical markers and possible explanations for the signs and symptoms of this syndrome. Seven amines were identified including methylamine, isobutylamine, putrescine, cadaverine, histamine, tyramine, and phenethylamine. These amines may contribute to the symptoms of NSV and may contribute to the elevated pH of the vaginal discharge. They may also be partly responsible for the \"fishy\" odor that is characteristic of vaginal discharges from these patients. Among the seven amines, putrescine and cadaverine were the most abundant and were present in all vaginal discharges from each of ten patients before treatment. These amines are produced in vitro during growth of mixed vaginal bacteria in chemically defined medium, presumably by decarboxylation of the corresponding amino acids. We hypothesize the anaerobic vaginal organisms, previously shown to be quantitatively increased in NSV, are responsible for the amine production, because metronidazole inhibited the production of amines by vaginal bacteria in vitro, and Haemophilus vaginalis did not produce amines. H. vaginalis did release high concentrations of pyruvic acid and of amino acids during growth in peptone-starch-dextrose medium, whereas, other vaginal flora consumed both pyruvic acid and amino acids in the same medium during growth. These findings suggest that a symbiotic relationship may exist between H. vaginalis and other vaginal flora in patients with NSV.", "contents": "Amine content of vaginal fluid from untreated and treated patients with nonspecific vaginitis. We examined the vaginal washings from patients with nonspecific vaginitis (NSV) to seek biochemical markers and possible explanations for the signs and symptoms of this syndrome. Seven amines were identified including methylamine, isobutylamine, putrescine, cadaverine, histamine, tyramine, and phenethylamine. These amines may contribute to the symptoms of NSV and may contribute to the elevated pH of the vaginal discharge. They may also be partly responsible for the \"fishy\" odor that is characteristic of vaginal discharges from these patients. Among the seven amines, putrescine and cadaverine were the most abundant and were present in all vaginal discharges from each of ten patients before treatment. These amines are produced in vitro during growth of mixed vaginal bacteria in chemically defined medium, presumably by decarboxylation of the corresponding amino acids. We hypothesize the anaerobic vaginal organisms, previously shown to be quantitatively increased in NSV, are responsible for the amine production, because metronidazole inhibited the production of amines by vaginal bacteria in vitro, and Haemophilus vaginalis did not produce amines. H. vaginalis did release high concentrations of pyruvic acid and of amino acids during growth in peptone-starch-dextrose medium, whereas, other vaginal flora consumed both pyruvic acid and amino acids in the same medium during growth. These findings suggest that a symbiotic relationship may exist between H. vaginalis and other vaginal flora in patients with NSV.", "PMID": 447831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8266", "title": "Influence of continuous physiologic hyperinsulinemia on glucose kinetics and counterregulatory hormones in normal and diabetic humans.", "content": "The effects of continuous infusions of insulin in physiologic doses on glucose kinetics and circulating counterregulatory hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine, glucagon, cortisol, and growth hormone) were determined in normal subjects and diabetics. The normals received insulin at two dose levels (0.4 and 0.25 mU/kg per min) and the diabetics received the higher dose (0.4 mU/kg per min) only. In all three groups of studies, continuous infusion of insulin resulted in an initial decline in plasma glucose followed by stabilization after 60-180 min. In the normal subjects, with the higher insulin dose there was a fivefold rise in plasma insulin. Plasma glucose fell at a rate of 0.73+/-0.12 mg/min for 45 min and then stabilized at 55+/-3 mg/dl after 60 min. The initial decline in plasma glucose was a result of a rapid, 27% fall in glucose output and a 33% rise in glucose uptake. Subsequent stabilization was a result of a return of glucose output and uptake to basal levels. The rebound increment in glucose output was significant (P < 0.05) by 30 min after initiation of the insulin infusion and preceded, by 30-45 min, a significant rise in circulating counterregulatory hormones. With the lower insulin infusion dose, plasma insulin rose two- to threefold, plasma glucose initially fell at a rate of 0.37+/-0.04 mg/min for 75 min and stabilized at 67+/-3 mg/dl after 75 min. The changes in plasma glucose were entirely a result of a fall in glucose output and subsequent return to base line, whereas glucose uptake remained unchanged. Plasma levels of counterregulatory hormones showed no change from basal throughout the insulin infusion. In the diabetic group (plasma glucose levels 227+/-7 mg/dl in the basal state), the initial rate of decline in plasma glucose (1.01+/-0.15 mg/dl) and the plateau concentration of plasma glucose (59+/-5 mg/dl) were comparable to controls receiving the same insulin dose. However, the initial fall in plasma glucose was almost entirely a result of suppression of glucose output, which showed a twofold greater decline (60+/-6%) than in controls (27+/-5%, P <0.01) and remained suppressed throughout the insulin infusion. In contrast, the late stabilization in plasma glucose was a result of a fall in glucose uptake to values 50% below basal (P < 0.001) and 39% below that observed in controls at termination of the insulin infusion (P < 0.01). Plasma norepinephrine and glucagon failed to rise during the insulin infusion, whereas plasma epinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone rose to values comparable to controls receiving the same insulin dose. It is concluded that (a) in normal and diabetic subjects, physiologic hyperinsulinemia results in an initial decline followed by stabilization of plasma glucose despite ongoing infusion of insulin; (b) in the normal subjects, a rebound increase in glucose output is the initial or principal mechanism counteracting the fall in plasma glucose and occurs (with an insulin dose of 0.25 mU/kg per min) in the absence of a rise in circulating counterregulatory hormones; (c) in diabetics, although the changes in plasma glucose are comparable to controls, the initial decline is a result of an exaggerated suppression of glucose output, whereas the stabilization of plasma glucose occurs primarily as a consequence of an exaggerated fall in glucose uptake; and (d) failure of plasma norepinephrine as well as glucagon to rise in the diabetics may contribute to the exaggerated suppression of glucose output.", "contents": "Influence of continuous physiologic hyperinsulinemia on glucose kinetics and counterregulatory hormones in normal and diabetic humans. The effects of continuous infusions of insulin in physiologic doses on glucose kinetics and circulating counterregulatory hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine, glucagon, cortisol, and growth hormone) were determined in normal subjects and diabetics. The normals received insulin at two dose levels (0.4 and 0.25 mU/kg per min) and the diabetics received the higher dose (0.4 mU/kg per min) only. In all three groups of studies, continuous infusion of insulin resulted in an initial decline in plasma glucose followed by stabilization after 60-180 min. In the normal subjects, with the higher insulin dose there was a fivefold rise in plasma insulin. Plasma glucose fell at a rate of 0.73+/-0.12 mg/min for 45 min and then stabilized at 55+/-3 mg/dl after 60 min. The initial decline in plasma glucose was a result of a rapid, 27% fall in glucose output and a 33% rise in glucose uptake. Subsequent stabilization was a result of a return of glucose output and uptake to basal levels. The rebound increment in glucose output was significant (P < 0.05) by 30 min after initiation of the insulin infusion and preceded, by 30-45 min, a significant rise in circulating counterregulatory hormones. With the lower insulin infusion dose, plasma insulin rose two- to threefold, plasma glucose initially fell at a rate of 0.37+/-0.04 mg/min for 75 min and stabilized at 67+/-3 mg/dl after 75 min. The changes in plasma glucose were entirely a result of a fall in glucose output and subsequent return to base line, whereas glucose uptake remained unchanged. Plasma levels of counterregulatory hormones showed no change from basal throughout the insulin infusion. In the diabetic group (plasma glucose levels 227+/-7 mg/dl in the basal state), the initial rate of decline in plasma glucose (1.01+/-0.15 mg/dl) and the plateau concentration of plasma glucose (59+/-5 mg/dl) were comparable to controls receiving the same insulin dose. However, the initial fall in plasma glucose was almost entirely a result of suppression of glucose output, which showed a twofold greater decline (60+/-6%) than in controls (27+/-5%, P <0.01) and remained suppressed throughout the insulin infusion. In contrast, the late stabilization in plasma glucose was a result of a fall in glucose uptake to values 50% below basal (P < 0.001) and 39% below that observed in controls at termination of the insulin infusion (P < 0.01). Plasma norepinephrine and glucagon failed to rise during the insulin infusion, whereas plasma epinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone rose to values comparable to controls receiving the same insulin dose. It is concluded that (a) in normal and diabetic subjects, physiologic hyperinsulinemia results in an initial decline followed by stabilization of plasma glucose despite ongoing infusion of insulin; (b) in the normal subjects, a rebound increase in glucose output is the initial or principal mechanism counteracting the fall in plasma glucose and occurs (with an insulin dose of 0.25 mU/kg per min) in the absence of a rise in circulating counterregulatory hormones; (c) in diabetics, although the changes in plasma glucose are comparable to controls, the initial decline is a result of an exaggerated suppression of glucose output, whereas the stabilization of plasma glucose occurs primarily as a consequence of an exaggerated fall in glucose uptake; and (d) failure of plasma norepinephrine as well as glucagon to rise in the diabetics may contribute to the exaggerated suppression of glucose output.", "PMID": 447832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8267", "title": "Delayed androgen treatment prolongs survival in murine lupus.", "content": "Female NZB/NZW F1 mice were treated as adults with 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone powder packed into subcutaneous implants. Two treatment protocols were followed: (a) 3-mo-old mice received 6 mg of androgen, and (b) 6-mo-old mice were castrated and given 12 mg of androgen. Sham females received empty implants. Mice were followed monthly for surival, for antibodies to DNA and polyadenylic acid, and for renal histopathology. The percent survival at 11 mo was 74% for mice treated at 3 mo, compared to 11% for the sham controls, and 100% for mice treated at 6 mo, compared to 20% for their sham controls. Androgen-treated mice had less immune complex glomerulonephritis as determined by immunofluorescent and electron microscopy. Surprisingly, treated mice had no significant sustained reduction in antibodies to DNA although they had reduced antibodies to polyadenylic acid. These results suggest that androgens can still prolong survival and reduce immune complex deposition even when treatment is delayed to an age when disease is relatively established. After delayed androgen treatment, mice survive despite the presence of high levels of IgG antibodies to DNA.", "contents": "Delayed androgen treatment prolongs survival in murine lupus. Female NZB/NZW F1 mice were treated as adults with 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone powder packed into subcutaneous implants. Two treatment protocols were followed: (a) 3-mo-old mice received 6 mg of androgen, and (b) 6-mo-old mice were castrated and given 12 mg of androgen. Sham females received empty implants. Mice were followed monthly for surival, for antibodies to DNA and polyadenylic acid, and for renal histopathology. The percent survival at 11 mo was 74% for mice treated at 3 mo, compared to 11% for the sham controls, and 100% for mice treated at 6 mo, compared to 20% for their sham controls. Androgen-treated mice had less immune complex glomerulonephritis as determined by immunofluorescent and electron microscopy. Surprisingly, treated mice had no significant sustained reduction in antibodies to DNA although they had reduced antibodies to polyadenylic acid. These results suggest that androgens can still prolong survival and reduce immune complex deposition even when treatment is delayed to an age when disease is relatively established. After delayed androgen treatment, mice survive despite the presence of high levels of IgG antibodies to DNA.", "PMID": 447833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8268", "title": "Overproduction of uric acid in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency. Contribution by impaired purine salvage.", "content": "The contribution of reduced purine salvage to the hyperuricemia associated with hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency was measured by the intravenous administration of tracer doses of [8-(14)C]adenine to nine patients with normal enzyme activity, three patients with a partial deficiency of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase, and six patients with the Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. The mean cumulative excretion of radioactivity 7 d after the adenine administration is 5.6+/-2.4, 12.9+/-0.9, and 22.3+/-4.7% of infused radioactivity for control subjects, partial hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient subjects, and Lesch-Nyhan patients, respectively. To assess relative rates of nucleotide degradation in control and hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient patients two separate studies were employed. With [8-(14)C]inosine administration, three control subjects excreted 3.7-8.5% and two enzyme-deficient patients excreted 26.5-48.0% of the injected radioactivity in 18 h. The capacity of the nucleotide catabolic pathway to accelerate in response to d-fructose was evaluated in control and enzyme-deficient patients. The normal metabolic response to intravenous fructose is a 7.5+/-4.2-mmol/g creatinine increase in total urinary purines during the 3-h after the infusion. The partial hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient subjects and Lesch-Nyhan patients show increases of 18.6+/-10.8 and 17.3+/-11.8 mmol/g creatinine, respectively. Of the observed rise in purine exretion in control subjects, 40% occurs from inosine excretion and 32% occurs from oxypurine excretion. The rise in total purine excretion with Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is almost entirely accounted for by an elevated uric acid excretion. Increases in urine radioactivity after fructose infusion are distributed in those purines that are excreted in elevated quantities.The observations suggest that purine salvage is a major contributor to increased purine excretion and that the purine catabolic pathway responds differently to an increased substrate load in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency. The purine salvage pathway is normally an important mechanism for the reutilization of hypoxanthine in man.", "contents": "Overproduction of uric acid in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency. Contribution by impaired purine salvage. The contribution of reduced purine salvage to the hyperuricemia associated with hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency was measured by the intravenous administration of tracer doses of [8-(14)C]adenine to nine patients with normal enzyme activity, three patients with a partial deficiency of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase, and six patients with the Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. The mean cumulative excretion of radioactivity 7 d after the adenine administration is 5.6+/-2.4, 12.9+/-0.9, and 22.3+/-4.7% of infused radioactivity for control subjects, partial hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient subjects, and Lesch-Nyhan patients, respectively. To assess relative rates of nucleotide degradation in control and hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient patients two separate studies were employed. With [8-(14)C]inosine administration, three control subjects excreted 3.7-8.5% and two enzyme-deficient patients excreted 26.5-48.0% of the injected radioactivity in 18 h. The capacity of the nucleotide catabolic pathway to accelerate in response to d-fructose was evaluated in control and enzyme-deficient patients. The normal metabolic response to intravenous fructose is a 7.5+/-4.2-mmol/g creatinine increase in total urinary purines during the 3-h after the infusion. The partial hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient subjects and Lesch-Nyhan patients show increases of 18.6+/-10.8 and 17.3+/-11.8 mmol/g creatinine, respectively. Of the observed rise in purine exretion in control subjects, 40% occurs from inosine excretion and 32% occurs from oxypurine excretion. The rise in total purine excretion with Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is almost entirely accounted for by an elevated uric acid excretion. Increases in urine radioactivity after fructose infusion are distributed in those purines that are excreted in elevated quantities.The observations suggest that purine salvage is a major contributor to increased purine excretion and that the purine catabolic pathway responds differently to an increased substrate load in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency. The purine salvage pathway is normally an important mechanism for the reutilization of hypoxanthine in man.", "PMID": 447834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8269", "title": "Hemoglobin Indianapolis (beta 112[G14] arginine). An unstable beta-chain variant producing the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia.", "content": "Hemoglobin (Hb) Indianapolis is an extremely labile beta-chain variant, present in such small amounts that it was undetectable by usual techniques. Clinically, it produces the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia. Biosynthetic studies showed a beta:alpha ratio of 0.5 in reticulocytes and about 1.0 in marrow after a 1-h incubation. These results, similar to those seen in typical heterozygous beta-thalassemia, suggested that betaIndianapolis was destroyed so rapidly that its net synthesis was essentially zero. To examine the kinetics of globin synthesis, reticulocyte incubations of 1.25--20 min were performed with [3H]leucine. The betaIndianapolis:beta A ratio at 1.25 min was 0.80 suggesting that beta Indianapolis was synthesized at a near normal rate. At 20 min, this ratio was 0.46 reflecting rapid turnover of beta Indianapolis. The erythrocyte ghosts from these incubations contained only betaIndianapolis and alpha-chains, and the proportion of betaIndianapolis decreased with time, indicating loss of betaIndianapolis. Pulse-chase studies showed little change in beta A:alpha ratio and decreasing betaIndianapolis:alpha and betaIndianapolis:beta A with time. The half-life of betaIndianapolis in the soluble hemoglobin was approximately equal to 7 min. There was also rapid loss of beta Indianapolis from the erythrocyte membrane. From these results, it may be inferred that betaIndianapolis is rapidly precipitated from the soluble cell phase to the membrane, where it is catabolized. Heterozygotes for beta 0-thalassemia usually have minimal hematologic abnormalities, whereas heterozygotes with betaIndianapolis, having a similar net content of beta-chain, have severe disease. The extremely rapid precipitation and catabolism of betaIndianapolis and the resulting excess of alpha-chains, both causing membrane damage, may be responsible for the severe clinical manifestations associated with this variant. It seems likely that other, similar disturbances in the primary sequence of globin polypeptide chains may produce clinical findings similar to those seen with hemoglobin Indianapolis and thus produce the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia.", "contents": "Hemoglobin Indianapolis (beta 112[G14] arginine). An unstable beta-chain variant producing the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia. Hemoglobin (Hb) Indianapolis is an extremely labile beta-chain variant, present in such small amounts that it was undetectable by usual techniques. Clinically, it produces the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia. Biosynthetic studies showed a beta:alpha ratio of 0.5 in reticulocytes and about 1.0 in marrow after a 1-h incubation. These results, similar to those seen in typical heterozygous beta-thalassemia, suggested that betaIndianapolis was destroyed so rapidly that its net synthesis was essentially zero. To examine the kinetics of globin synthesis, reticulocyte incubations of 1.25--20 min were performed with [3H]leucine. The betaIndianapolis:beta A ratio at 1.25 min was 0.80 suggesting that beta Indianapolis was synthesized at a near normal rate. At 20 min, this ratio was 0.46 reflecting rapid turnover of beta Indianapolis. The erythrocyte ghosts from these incubations contained only betaIndianapolis and alpha-chains, and the proportion of betaIndianapolis decreased with time, indicating loss of betaIndianapolis. Pulse-chase studies showed little change in beta A:alpha ratio and decreasing betaIndianapolis:alpha and betaIndianapolis:beta A with time. The half-life of betaIndianapolis in the soluble hemoglobin was approximately equal to 7 min. There was also rapid loss of beta Indianapolis from the erythrocyte membrane. From these results, it may be inferred that betaIndianapolis is rapidly precipitated from the soluble cell phase to the membrane, where it is catabolized. Heterozygotes for beta 0-thalassemia usually have minimal hematologic abnormalities, whereas heterozygotes with betaIndianapolis, having a similar net content of beta-chain, have severe disease. The extremely rapid precipitation and catabolism of betaIndianapolis and the resulting excess of alpha-chains, both causing membrane damage, may be responsible for the severe clinical manifestations associated with this variant. It seems likely that other, similar disturbances in the primary sequence of globin polypeptide chains may produce clinical findings similar to those seen with hemoglobin Indianapolis and thus produce the phenotype of severe beta-thalassemia.", "PMID": 447835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8270", "title": "Cytotoxicity of human macrophages for tumor cells. Enhancement by human lymphocyte mediators.", "content": "Human macrophages, derived from peripheral blood monocytes, acquire enhanced cytotoxicity for human target cells after incubation in mediator-rich supernates from antigen-stimulated lymphocytes. Maximum cytotoxicity was observed after 24-h incubation in mediators. In comparison to normal macrophages, mediator-activated macrophages were cytotoxic to five of the six malignant cell lines tested but had no effect on five nonmalignant cell lines. In 20 experiments with one target (SK-BR-3), mean cytotoxicity was 23 +/- 2.7% and with another target (MA-160), was 29 +/- 3.4%. Macrophages became cytotoxic after 8-h incubation with mediators and the enhanced cytotoxicity persisted for at least 40 h after the lymphocyte mediators were removed. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that macrophages, activated by antigen-induced lymphocyte mediators, can contribute to the host resistance to tumor growth in man.", "contents": "Cytotoxicity of human macrophages for tumor cells. Enhancement by human lymphocyte mediators. Human macrophages, derived from peripheral blood monocytes, acquire enhanced cytotoxicity for human target cells after incubation in mediator-rich supernates from antigen-stimulated lymphocytes. Maximum cytotoxicity was observed after 24-h incubation in mediators. In comparison to normal macrophages, mediator-activated macrophages were cytotoxic to five of the six malignant cell lines tested but had no effect on five nonmalignant cell lines. In 20 experiments with one target (SK-BR-3), mean cytotoxicity was 23 +/- 2.7% and with another target (MA-160), was 29 +/- 3.4%. Macrophages became cytotoxic after 8-h incubation with mediators and the enhanced cytotoxicity persisted for at least 40 h after the lymphocyte mediators were removed. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that macrophages, activated by antigen-induced lymphocyte mediators, can contribute to the host resistance to tumor growth in man.", "PMID": 447836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8271", "title": "Effect of hypersensitivity on protein uptake across the air-blood barrier of isolated rabbit lungs.", "content": "In previous studies with isolated perfused rabbit lungs, we observed that human serum albumin (HSA) and ovalbumin, introduced into the isolated lungs as an aerosol, entered the pulmonary circulation antigenically intact. The \"inhaled\" proteins were also broken down in the lung. When lungs from animals immunized with one protein inhaled the two proteins simultaneously, absorption of intact antigen was specifically reduced, and there was a nonspecific increase in the appearance of metabolites of both proteins in the blood. In the present study, we investigated the antigen-specific and nonspecific effects of two types of hypersensitivity responses on protein absorption across the air-blood barrier of isolated rabbit lungs. In one group of lungs, an acute hypersensitivity response was induced by introducing HSA into the blood perfusing lungs from HSA-immunized rabbits. In another, the rabbits had been previously exposed to chronic HSA aerosol until their lungs exhibited a chronic immunologic inflammatory response. Lungs from both groups were insufflated simultaneously with HSA, and a nonspecific protein, ovalbumin. Lungs in which the acute anaphylactic response was induced showed no alteration in the absorption of either intact protein compared with HSA-immunized controls, but absorbed a somewhat larger quantity of breakdown products of the specific antigen. Lungs undergoing the chronic alveolar inflammation were more permeable to nonspecific protein than were noninflamed lungs. Despite the increased permeability to nonspecific protein, the absorption of antigen was blocked as effectively as in immune but noninflamed controls. In these chronically inflamed lungs, the absorption of antigen breakdown products was enhanced. The results indicate that both immunologic and inflammatory mechanisms may control the amounts of inhaled soluble proteins that reach the blood via the alveolocapillary barrier. Alterations in the absorption of inhaled proteins and their metabolites across the air-blood barrier during certain types of hypersensitivity responses may be of immunologic and pathologic significance.", "contents": "Effect of hypersensitivity on protein uptake across the air-blood barrier of isolated rabbit lungs. In previous studies with isolated perfused rabbit lungs, we observed that human serum albumin (HSA) and ovalbumin, introduced into the isolated lungs as an aerosol, entered the pulmonary circulation antigenically intact. The \"inhaled\" proteins were also broken down in the lung. When lungs from animals immunized with one protein inhaled the two proteins simultaneously, absorption of intact antigen was specifically reduced, and there was a nonspecific increase in the appearance of metabolites of both proteins in the blood. In the present study, we investigated the antigen-specific and nonspecific effects of two types of hypersensitivity responses on protein absorption across the air-blood barrier of isolated rabbit lungs. In one group of lungs, an acute hypersensitivity response was induced by introducing HSA into the blood perfusing lungs from HSA-immunized rabbits. In another, the rabbits had been previously exposed to chronic HSA aerosol until their lungs exhibited a chronic immunologic inflammatory response. Lungs from both groups were insufflated simultaneously with HSA, and a nonspecific protein, ovalbumin. Lungs in which the acute anaphylactic response was induced showed no alteration in the absorption of either intact protein compared with HSA-immunized controls, but absorbed a somewhat larger quantity of breakdown products of the specific antigen. Lungs undergoing the chronic alveolar inflammation were more permeable to nonspecific protein than were noninflamed lungs. Despite the increased permeability to nonspecific protein, the absorption of antigen was blocked as effectively as in immune but noninflamed controls. In these chronically inflamed lungs, the absorption of antigen breakdown products was enhanced. The results indicate that both immunologic and inflammatory mechanisms may control the amounts of inhaled soluble proteins that reach the blood via the alveolocapillary barrier. Alterations in the absorption of inhaled proteins and their metabolites across the air-blood barrier during certain types of hypersensitivity responses may be of immunologic and pathologic significance.", "PMID": 447837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8272", "title": "Effect of intermittent endogenous hyperglucagonemia on glucose homeostasis in normal and diabetic man.", "content": "Infusion of glucagon causes only a transient increase in glucose production in normal and diabetic man. To assess the effect of intermittent endogenous hyperglucagonemia that might more closely reflect physiologic conditions, arginine (10 g over 30 min) was infused four times to 8 normal subjects and 13 insulin-dependent diabetic subjects (4 of whom were infused concomitantly with somatostatin to examine effects of arginine during prevention of hyperglucagonemia). Each arginine infusion was separated by 60 min. Diabetic subjects were infused throughout the experiments with insulin at rates (0.07-0.48 mU/kg per min) that had normalized base-line plasma glucose and rates of glucose appearance (Ra) and disappearance (Rd). Basal plasma glucagon and arginine-induced hyperglucagonemia were similar in both groups; basal serum insulin in the diabetics (16+/-1 muU/ml, P < 0.05) exceeded those of the normal subjects (10+/-1 muU/ml, P < 0.05) but did not increase with arginine. Serum insulin in normal subjects increased 15-20 muU/ml with each arginine infusion. In both groups each arginine infusion increased plasma glucose and Ra. Increments of Ra in the diabetics exceeded those of normal subjects, (P < 0.02); Rd was similar in both groups. In normal subjects, plasma glucose returned to basal levels after each arginine infusion, whereas in the diabetics hyperglycemia persisted reaching 151+/-15 mg/dl after the last arginine infusion. When glucagon responses were prevented by somatostatin, arginine infusions did not alter plasma glucose or Ra. Infusion of arginine acutely increases plasma glucose and glucose production in man solely by stimulating glucagon secretion; physiologic increments in plasma glucagon (100-150 pg/ml) can result in sustained hyperglycemia when pancreatic beta cell function is limited.", "contents": "Effect of intermittent endogenous hyperglucagonemia on glucose homeostasis in normal and diabetic man. Infusion of glucagon causes only a transient increase in glucose production in normal and diabetic man. To assess the effect of intermittent endogenous hyperglucagonemia that might more closely reflect physiologic conditions, arginine (10 g over 30 min) was infused four times to 8 normal subjects and 13 insulin-dependent diabetic subjects (4 of whom were infused concomitantly with somatostatin to examine effects of arginine during prevention of hyperglucagonemia). Each arginine infusion was separated by 60 min. Diabetic subjects were infused throughout the experiments with insulin at rates (0.07-0.48 mU/kg per min) that had normalized base-line plasma glucose and rates of glucose appearance (Ra) and disappearance (Rd). Basal plasma glucagon and arginine-induced hyperglucagonemia were similar in both groups; basal serum insulin in the diabetics (16+/-1 muU/ml, P < 0.05) exceeded those of the normal subjects (10+/-1 muU/ml, P < 0.05) but did not increase with arginine. Serum insulin in normal subjects increased 15-20 muU/ml with each arginine infusion. In both groups each arginine infusion increased plasma glucose and Ra. Increments of Ra in the diabetics exceeded those of normal subjects, (P < 0.02); Rd was similar in both groups. In normal subjects, plasma glucose returned to basal levels after each arginine infusion, whereas in the diabetics hyperglycemia persisted reaching 151+/-15 mg/dl after the last arginine infusion. When glucagon responses were prevented by somatostatin, arginine infusions did not alter plasma glucose or Ra. Infusion of arginine acutely increases plasma glucose and glucose production in man solely by stimulating glucagon secretion; physiologic increments in plasma glucagon (100-150 pg/ml) can result in sustained hyperglycemia when pancreatic beta cell function is limited.", "PMID": 447838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8273", "title": "Catecholamine-mediated reduction in uterine blood flow after nicotine infusion in the pregnant ewe.", "content": "The effect of nicotine on uterine blood flow, uterine vascular resistance, and plasma catecholamine concentration was studied in chronically catheterized pregnant sheep equipped with electromagnetic flow probes. The systemic administration of nicotine (14--32 micrograms/kg body wt per min) resulted in a 44% reduction in uterine blood flow (P less than 0.001) and a 203% increase in uterine vascular resistance. Both responses were inhibited by pretreatment with the alpha blocker, phentolamine. Arterial plasma concentrations of norepinephrine and epinephrine, measured by a single isotopic radioenzymatic assay, rose (from 117.9 +/- 6.7 to 201.8 +/- 13.3 pg/ml, P less than 0.001; and from 71.6 +/- 4.5 to 124.1 +/- 8.4 pg/ml, P less than 0.001, respectively) during nicotine infusion. The findings suggest that nicotine exerts a deleterious effect on uterine blood flow mediated through the release of catecholamines.", "contents": "Catecholamine-mediated reduction in uterine blood flow after nicotine infusion in the pregnant ewe. The effect of nicotine on uterine blood flow, uterine vascular resistance, and plasma catecholamine concentration was studied in chronically catheterized pregnant sheep equipped with electromagnetic flow probes. The systemic administration of nicotine (14--32 micrograms/kg body wt per min) resulted in a 44% reduction in uterine blood flow (P less than 0.001) and a 203% increase in uterine vascular resistance. Both responses were inhibited by pretreatment with the alpha blocker, phentolamine. Arterial plasma concentrations of norepinephrine and epinephrine, measured by a single isotopic radioenzymatic assay, rose (from 117.9 +/- 6.7 to 201.8 +/- 13.3 pg/ml, P less than 0.001; and from 71.6 +/- 4.5 to 124.1 +/- 8.4 pg/ml, P less than 0.001, respectively) during nicotine infusion. The findings suggest that nicotine exerts a deleterious effect on uterine blood flow mediated through the release of catecholamines.", "PMID": 447839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8274", "title": "Association of poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis with DNA damage and repair in normal human lymphocytes.", "content": "A permeable cell technique was used to measure the alterations in synthesis of DNA and poly-(adenosine diphosphoribose) in normal human lymphocytes after treatment of the cells with different types of DNA-damaging agents. The lymphocytes showed an abrupt increase in the unscheduled synthesis of DNA and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) in response to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The increases were apparent within 1 h and reached a maximum between 2 and 4 h after irradiation. The magnitude of the increases in DNA and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis was dependent upon the UV dose. Alkaline CsCl gradient studies, with bromodeoxyuridine triphosphate density labeling of DNA, demonstrated that the unscheduled DNA synthesis, which occurred in response to UV irradiation, was actually a result of the repair mode of DNA synthesis. Similar increases in DNA synthesis, and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis occurred when lymphocytes were treated with several other DNA-damaging agents, including bleomycin, N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine or N-acetoxyacetyl aminofluorene. Treatment of lymphocytes with DNase, under conditions which allowed degradation of cellular DNA, also resulted in increased synthesis of poly(adenosine diphosphoribose). Cycloheximide did not inhibit the increase in synthesis of DNA or poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) that occurred in response to treatment with the DNA-damaging agents.", "contents": "Association of poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis with DNA damage and repair in normal human lymphocytes. A permeable cell technique was used to measure the alterations in synthesis of DNA and poly-(adenosine diphosphoribose) in normal human lymphocytes after treatment of the cells with different types of DNA-damaging agents. The lymphocytes showed an abrupt increase in the unscheduled synthesis of DNA and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) in response to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The increases were apparent within 1 h and reached a maximum between 2 and 4 h after irradiation. The magnitude of the increases in DNA and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis was dependent upon the UV dose. Alkaline CsCl gradient studies, with bromodeoxyuridine triphosphate density labeling of DNA, demonstrated that the unscheduled DNA synthesis, which occurred in response to UV irradiation, was actually a result of the repair mode of DNA synthesis. Similar increases in DNA synthesis, and poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) synthesis occurred when lymphocytes were treated with several other DNA-damaging agents, including bleomycin, N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine or N-acetoxyacetyl aminofluorene. Treatment of lymphocytes with DNase, under conditions which allowed degradation of cellular DNA, also resulted in increased synthesis of poly(adenosine diphosphoribose). Cycloheximide did not inhibit the increase in synthesis of DNA or poly(adenosine diphosphoribose) that occurred in response to treatment with the DNA-damaging agents.", "PMID": 447840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8275", "title": "Specific inhibition of the polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotactic response to hydroxy-fatty acid metabolites of arachidonic acid by methyl ester derivatives.", "content": "The human polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocyte chemotactic activity of the hydroxy-fatty acid metabolites of arachidonic acid, 12-l-hydroxy-5,8,10-heptadecatrienoic acid (HHT) and 12-l-hydroxy-5,8,10,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (HETE), is eliminated by methylation. Both methyl esters are specific competitive inhibitors of the PMN leukotactic responses to the parent stimuli, and exert no effect on the responses to formyl-methionyl peptides or chemotactic fragments of the fifth component of complement. 50% inhibition of the in vitro chemotactic responses of PMN leukocytes to HETE and HHT was achieved by an equimolar concentration of the corresponding methyl esters, whereas reciprocal cross-inhibition was observed at molar ratios of HETE methyl ester to HHT and HHT methyl ester to HETE which reflected the three- to fivefold greater chemotactic potency of HETE relative to HHT. Methyl esters of structurally related, but nonchemotactic, fatty acids did not competitively inhibit the chemotaxis elicited by HETE or HHT. The intraperitoneal injection of HETE in guinea pigs evoked an eosinophil response at 30 min and a neutrophil response at 5 h, which were prevented by a one-to twofold molar ratio of HETE methyl ester. The competitive inhibition of the in vitro chemotactic activity and the in vivo leukotactic effect of the unsaturated hydroxy-fatty acids by homologous methyl ester derivatives suggests that the cellular component of natural inflammatory reactions may be susceptible to specific regulation by receptor-directed modulation of the activity of the predominant chemotactic principles.", "contents": "Specific inhibition of the polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotactic response to hydroxy-fatty acid metabolites of arachidonic acid by methyl ester derivatives. The human polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocyte chemotactic activity of the hydroxy-fatty acid metabolites of arachidonic acid, 12-l-hydroxy-5,8,10-heptadecatrienoic acid (HHT) and 12-l-hydroxy-5,8,10,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (HETE), is eliminated by methylation. Both methyl esters are specific competitive inhibitors of the PMN leukotactic responses to the parent stimuli, and exert no effect on the responses to formyl-methionyl peptides or chemotactic fragments of the fifth component of complement. 50% inhibition of the in vitro chemotactic responses of PMN leukocytes to HETE and HHT was achieved by an equimolar concentration of the corresponding methyl esters, whereas reciprocal cross-inhibition was observed at molar ratios of HETE methyl ester to HHT and HHT methyl ester to HETE which reflected the three- to fivefold greater chemotactic potency of HETE relative to HHT. Methyl esters of structurally related, but nonchemotactic, fatty acids did not competitively inhibit the chemotaxis elicited by HETE or HHT. The intraperitoneal injection of HETE in guinea pigs evoked an eosinophil response at 30 min and a neutrophil response at 5 h, which were prevented by a one-to twofold molar ratio of HETE methyl ester. The competitive inhibition of the in vitro chemotactic activity and the in vivo leukotactic effect of the unsaturated hydroxy-fatty acids by homologous methyl ester derivatives suggests that the cellular component of natural inflammatory reactions may be susceptible to specific regulation by receptor-directed modulation of the activity of the predominant chemotactic principles.", "PMID": 447841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8276", "title": "Rapid distribution of tryptophol (3-indole ethanol) to the brain and other tissues.", "content": "Tryptophol (3-indole ethanol) is a compound which induces sleep, and is formed: (a) in the liver after disulfiram treatment, and (b) by the parasite in trypanosomal sleeping sickness. We prepared, purified, and characterized radiolabeled tryptophol for the purpose of defining its tissue distribution in animals. Tryptophol was found to be highly lipophilic, with an octanol:water partition coefficient of 29.8. Brain extraction, determined after intracarotid injection, was high (brain uptake index = 117 +/- 3.5%), and nonsaturable, suggesting the absence of a carrier system. After intravenous administration, tryptophol distribution to tissues correlated with relative blood flow. More than 85% of the radioactivity remaining in brain 2-5 min after intravenous injection co-migrated with tryptophol standards when analyzed by thin-layer chromatography. Other evidence suggested that tryptophol binds to serum and in vivo may be stripped from serum albumin and taken up by brain in a single capillary transit. Our study suggests that in states such as trypanosomal sleeping sickness or disulfiram treatment, remotely formed tryptophol gains ready access to brain (it is 100% cleared in a single capillary passage), and could thus cause somnolence.", "contents": "Rapid distribution of tryptophol (3-indole ethanol) to the brain and other tissues. Tryptophol (3-indole ethanol) is a compound which induces sleep, and is formed: (a) in the liver after disulfiram treatment, and (b) by the parasite in trypanosomal sleeping sickness. We prepared, purified, and characterized radiolabeled tryptophol for the purpose of defining its tissue distribution in animals. Tryptophol was found to be highly lipophilic, with an octanol:water partition coefficient of 29.8. Brain extraction, determined after intracarotid injection, was high (brain uptake index = 117 +/- 3.5%), and nonsaturable, suggesting the absence of a carrier system. After intravenous administration, tryptophol distribution to tissues correlated with relative blood flow. More than 85% of the radioactivity remaining in brain 2-5 min after intravenous injection co-migrated with tryptophol standards when analyzed by thin-layer chromatography. Other evidence suggested that tryptophol binds to serum and in vivo may be stripped from serum albumin and taken up by brain in a single capillary transit. Our study suggests that in states such as trypanosomal sleeping sickness or disulfiram treatment, remotely formed tryptophol gains ready access to brain (it is 100% cleared in a single capillary passage), and could thus cause somnolence.", "PMID": 447842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8277", "title": "Lysosomal association of internalized 125I-insulin in isolated rat hepatocytes. Direct demonstration by quantitative electron microscopic autoradiography.", "content": "Quantitative electron microscopic autoradiographic studies in cultured human lymphocytes and isolated rat hepatocytes have demonstrated that labeled insulin initially localizes to the plasma membrane and is subsequently internalized to a limited region of the peripheral cytoplasm. When 0.5 nm 125I-insulin is incubated with isolated rat hepatocytes, binding to the plasma membrane occurs at both 20 degrees C and 37 degrees C. Under steady-state binding conditions approximately equal to 30--40% of the labeled hormone is internalized to a distance of approximately equal to 15% of the radius of the cell. When the localization of the internalized labeled material is analyzed, by 2--5 min of incubation at 37 degrees C there is a fivefold preferential association of autoradiographic grains with lysosomal structures, and by 30--60 min of incubation at 37 degrees C there is a 10-fold preferential association. When the cell-associated radioactivity is extracted and filtered on Sephadex G-50 at each time point of incubation, radioactivity elutes predominantly in the position of 125I-insulin and is predominantly in the position of 125I-insulin and is predominantly trichloracetic acid precipitable, bindable to talc, and rebindable to liver membranes. With increasing time of association at 37 degrees C the initial rate and absolute amount of labeled material dissociable from the cell is reduced. With increasing time of dissociation both the cell-associated radioactivity and the radioactivity released into the incubation medium is progressively degraded. These data demonstrate that in isolated rat hepatocytes labeled insulin initially localizes to the plasma membrane, is progressively internalized, and associates preferentially with lysosomal structures. These events may provide a mechanism that links cell surface binding to the degradation of insulin and to insulin-induced loss of its specific receptor.", "contents": "Lysosomal association of internalized 125I-insulin in isolated rat hepatocytes. Direct demonstration by quantitative electron microscopic autoradiography. Quantitative electron microscopic autoradiographic studies in cultured human lymphocytes and isolated rat hepatocytes have demonstrated that labeled insulin initially localizes to the plasma membrane and is subsequently internalized to a limited region of the peripheral cytoplasm. When 0.5 nm 125I-insulin is incubated with isolated rat hepatocytes, binding to the plasma membrane occurs at both 20 degrees C and 37 degrees C. Under steady-state binding conditions approximately equal to 30--40% of the labeled hormone is internalized to a distance of approximately equal to 15% of the radius of the cell. When the localization of the internalized labeled material is analyzed, by 2--5 min of incubation at 37 degrees C there is a fivefold preferential association of autoradiographic grains with lysosomal structures, and by 30--60 min of incubation at 37 degrees C there is a 10-fold preferential association. When the cell-associated radioactivity is extracted and filtered on Sephadex G-50 at each time point of incubation, radioactivity elutes predominantly in the position of 125I-insulin and is predominantly in the position of 125I-insulin and is predominantly trichloracetic acid precipitable, bindable to talc, and rebindable to liver membranes. With increasing time of association at 37 degrees C the initial rate and absolute amount of labeled material dissociable from the cell is reduced. With increasing time of dissociation both the cell-associated radioactivity and the radioactivity released into the incubation medium is progressively degraded. These data demonstrate that in isolated rat hepatocytes labeled insulin initially localizes to the plasma membrane, is progressively internalized, and associates preferentially with lysosomal structures. These events may provide a mechanism that links cell surface binding to the degradation of insulin and to insulin-induced loss of its specific receptor.", "PMID": 447843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8278", "title": "Delayed-type hypersensitivity skin reactions in congenital afibrinogenemia lack fibrin deposition and induration.", "content": "Induration is a characteristic feature of delayed-type hypersensitivity skin reactions and is the usual measure of their intensity. The precise basis of induration has not been established, although activation of the clotting system with consequent fibrin deposition has been clearly implicated. In this study, two subjects with congenital afibrinogenemia, a genetic defect in fibrinogen synthesis, were skin tested with standard microbial antigens: streptokinase-streptodornase, monilia, mumps, and tuberculin purified protein derivative. One positive delayed reaction from each subject was biopsied at 40-48 h and compared with 23 biopsies of similar skin tests in normal volunteers. The eight skin tests in the afibrinogenic subjects lacked induration, although the erythema was similar in size (10-34 mm in diameter), intensity, and time-course to those in normals. Biopsies from the two strongest reactions from the afibrinogenemic subjects showed a typical perivascular mononuclear infiltrate. No more than traces of fibrin/fibrinogen were detected by immunofluorescence, in striking contrast to the abundant fibrin/fibrinogen deposition in 23 positive, indurated reactions in normal subjects. These findings indicate that fibrinogen itself is essential for the development of induration in delayed-type skin reactions in man. As judged by 1-mum sections and fluorescence, this is probably a result of the formation of an extravascular fibrin gel.", "contents": "Delayed-type hypersensitivity skin reactions in congenital afibrinogenemia lack fibrin deposition and induration. Induration is a characteristic feature of delayed-type hypersensitivity skin reactions and is the usual measure of their intensity. The precise basis of induration has not been established, although activation of the clotting system with consequent fibrin deposition has been clearly implicated. In this study, two subjects with congenital afibrinogenemia, a genetic defect in fibrinogen synthesis, were skin tested with standard microbial antigens: streptokinase-streptodornase, monilia, mumps, and tuberculin purified protein derivative. One positive delayed reaction from each subject was biopsied at 40-48 h and compared with 23 biopsies of similar skin tests in normal volunteers. The eight skin tests in the afibrinogenic subjects lacked induration, although the erythema was similar in size (10-34 mm in diameter), intensity, and time-course to those in normals. Biopsies from the two strongest reactions from the afibrinogenemic subjects showed a typical perivascular mononuclear infiltrate. No more than traces of fibrin/fibrinogen were detected by immunofluorescence, in striking contrast to the abundant fibrin/fibrinogen deposition in 23 positive, indurated reactions in normal subjects. These findings indicate that fibrinogen itself is essential for the development of induration in delayed-type skin reactions in man. As judged by 1-mum sections and fluorescence, this is probably a result of the formation of an extravascular fibrin gel.", "PMID": 447844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8279", "title": "Organization of the alpha-globin genes in the Chinese alpha-thalassemia syndromes.", "content": "The alpha-thalassemia syndromes are a group of inherited anemias, the clinical severity of which has been shown to increase with the number of alpha-globin structural genes deleted. Employing restriction endonuclease gene mapping, we defined the organization of the alpha-globin genes in cellular DNA from Chinese subjects with various alpha-thalassemia syndromes. The four alpha-globin genes of normals are at two loci located on a 23.0-kilobase pair (kb) Eco RI fragment. In deletion type hemoglobin-H disease the 5' alpha-globin locus is deleted and the single 3' alpha-globin locus is found on a 19.0-kb Eco RI fragment. In alpha-thalassemia-2 there are two alpha-globin genes on a 23.0-kb Eco RI fragment and one on a 19.0-kb fragment. In alpha-thalassemia-1 and the nondeletion type of hemoglobin-H disease the two alpha-globin genes are at two loci on one chromosome and none reside on the other chromosome.", "contents": "Organization of the alpha-globin genes in the Chinese alpha-thalassemia syndromes. The alpha-thalassemia syndromes are a group of inherited anemias, the clinical severity of which has been shown to increase with the number of alpha-globin structural genes deleted. Employing restriction endonuclease gene mapping, we defined the organization of the alpha-globin genes in cellular DNA from Chinese subjects with various alpha-thalassemia syndromes. The four alpha-globin genes of normals are at two loci located on a 23.0-kilobase pair (kb) Eco RI fragment. In deletion type hemoglobin-H disease the 5' alpha-globin locus is deleted and the single 3' alpha-globin locus is found on a 19.0-kb Eco RI fragment. In alpha-thalassemia-2 there are two alpha-globin genes on a 23.0-kb Eco RI fragment and one on a 19.0-kb fragment. In alpha-thalassemia-1 and the nondeletion type of hemoglobin-H disease the two alpha-globin genes are at two loci on one chromosome and none reside on the other chromosome.", "PMID": 447845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8280", "title": "Mechanisms of renin secretion during hemorrhage in the dog.", "content": "The importance of renal perfusion pressure (RPP), the sympathetic beta adrenergic nervous system and renal prostaglandins (PG) on renin release during a uniform 15-17% reduction in blood pressure by hemorrhage (HH) was studied systematically in anesthetized dogs. All groups of animals had similar decrements in systemic and renal hemodynamics with HH. In control dogs (n = 7), both plasma renin activity (PRA, 4.1-9.0 ng angiotensin I/ml per h, P < 0.05) and renin secretory rate (RSR, 26-228 ng/ml per h.min, P < 0.005) increased significantly with HH. This increase in renin release during HH was not abolished by any single maneuver alone including beta adrenergic blockade with d,l-propranolol (n = 6), renal PG inhibition with indomethacin (n = 7), or control of RPP (n = 6). However, when beta adrenergic blockade was combined with control of RPP (n = 7) during HH, neither PRA (1.9-2.7 ng/ml per h, NS) nor RSR (16-53 ng/ml per h.min, NS) increased significantly. Similarly, a combination of beta adrenergic blockade and PG inhibition (n = 6) also abolished the increase in PRA (1.5-1.4 ng/ml per h, NS) and RSR (14-55 ng/ml per h.min, NS) during HH despite significant decreases in sodium excretion. Finally, a combination of PG inhibition and RPP control was associated with significant increases in PRA and RSR during HH. These results support a multifactorial mechanism in renin release during HH and implicate both the beta adrenergic receptors, renal baroreceptors, and possibly the macula densa as constituting the primary pathways of renin release during HH of this magnitude. Because either constant RPP or PG inhibition blunted renin release during HH in the setting of beta adrenergic blockade, the present results strongly suggest that the renal baroreceptor, and probably the macula densa mechanism are PG mediated.", "contents": "Mechanisms of renin secretion during hemorrhage in the dog. The importance of renal perfusion pressure (RPP), the sympathetic beta adrenergic nervous system and renal prostaglandins (PG) on renin release during a uniform 15-17% reduction in blood pressure by hemorrhage (HH) was studied systematically in anesthetized dogs. All groups of animals had similar decrements in systemic and renal hemodynamics with HH. In control dogs (n = 7), both plasma renin activity (PRA, 4.1-9.0 ng angiotensin I/ml per h, P < 0.05) and renin secretory rate (RSR, 26-228 ng/ml per h.min, P < 0.005) increased significantly with HH. This increase in renin release during HH was not abolished by any single maneuver alone including beta adrenergic blockade with d,l-propranolol (n = 6), renal PG inhibition with indomethacin (n = 7), or control of RPP (n = 6). However, when beta adrenergic blockade was combined with control of RPP (n = 7) during HH, neither PRA (1.9-2.7 ng/ml per h, NS) nor RSR (16-53 ng/ml per h.min, NS) increased significantly. Similarly, a combination of beta adrenergic blockade and PG inhibition (n = 6) also abolished the increase in PRA (1.5-1.4 ng/ml per h, NS) and RSR (14-55 ng/ml per h.min, NS) during HH despite significant decreases in sodium excretion. Finally, a combination of PG inhibition and RPP control was associated with significant increases in PRA and RSR during HH. These results support a multifactorial mechanism in renin release during HH and implicate both the beta adrenergic receptors, renal baroreceptors, and possibly the macula densa as constituting the primary pathways of renin release during HH of this magnitude. Because either constant RPP or PG inhibition blunted renin release during HH in the setting of beta adrenergic blockade, the present results strongly suggest that the renal baroreceptor, and probably the macula densa mechanism are PG mediated.", "PMID": 447846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8281", "title": "Sympathoadrenal activity in fasting pregnant rats. Dissociation of adrenal medullary and sympathetic nervous system responses.", "content": "The pattern of urinary catecholamine excretion in fasting differs in pregnant and nonpregnant rats, which suggests that the sympathoadrenal response to fasting is altered by pregnancy. In fasting nonpregnant animals, urinary norepinephrine (NE) excretion decreases and epinephrine (E) excretion remains unchanged, whereas the excretion of both catecholamines rises significantly with refeeding. In contrast, fasting third-trimester pregnant rats exhibit a 420% increase in urinary E and a 345% increase in urinary NE, elevations which fall with refeeding. Specific evaluation of sympathoadrenal activity in fasting pregnant rats reveals stimulation of the adrenal medulla and suppression of sympathetic nerves. In fasting third-trimester rats the adrenal content of E is 37% lower in innervated adrenals as compared with contralateral denervated glands, which indicates the presence of neurally-mediated adrenal medullary activation. Adrenalectomy completely abolishes the fasting-induced rise in urinary E and NE in pregnant rats. Studies with 2-deoxy-D-glucose suggest that stimulation of the adrenal medulla results from hypoglycemia, which is present after 3 d of fasting in pregnant rats (plasma glucose 36.7 mg/dl). Sympathetic nervous system activity, as measured by [(3)H]NE turnover in the heart, decreases in fasting pregnant rats despite hypoglycemia, a response similar to that seen in fasting nonpregnant animals where plasma glucose is maintained above 50 mg/dl. The calculated NE turnover rate is 44% lower in 2-d fasted pregnant rats than in fed pregnant animals (17.6 +/- 1.3 vs. 31.3 +/- 1.8 ng NE/heart per h, respectively). Thus adrenal medullary and sympathetic nervous system responses in fasting pregnant rats appear to be dissociated, which suggests that diet-induced changes in sympathetic activity and stimulation of the adrenal medulla by hypoglycemia may be independently regulated.", "contents": "Sympathoadrenal activity in fasting pregnant rats. Dissociation of adrenal medullary and sympathetic nervous system responses. The pattern of urinary catecholamine excretion in fasting differs in pregnant and nonpregnant rats, which suggests that the sympathoadrenal response to fasting is altered by pregnancy. In fasting nonpregnant animals, urinary norepinephrine (NE) excretion decreases and epinephrine (E) excretion remains unchanged, whereas the excretion of both catecholamines rises significantly with refeeding. In contrast, fasting third-trimester pregnant rats exhibit a 420% increase in urinary E and a 345% increase in urinary NE, elevations which fall with refeeding. Specific evaluation of sympathoadrenal activity in fasting pregnant rats reveals stimulation of the adrenal medulla and suppression of sympathetic nerves. In fasting third-trimester rats the adrenal content of E is 37% lower in innervated adrenals as compared with contralateral denervated glands, which indicates the presence of neurally-mediated adrenal medullary activation. Adrenalectomy completely abolishes the fasting-induced rise in urinary E and NE in pregnant rats. Studies with 2-deoxy-D-glucose suggest that stimulation of the adrenal medulla results from hypoglycemia, which is present after 3 d of fasting in pregnant rats (plasma glucose 36.7 mg/dl). Sympathetic nervous system activity, as measured by [(3)H]NE turnover in the heart, decreases in fasting pregnant rats despite hypoglycemia, a response similar to that seen in fasting nonpregnant animals where plasma glucose is maintained above 50 mg/dl. The calculated NE turnover rate is 44% lower in 2-d fasted pregnant rats than in fed pregnant animals (17.6 +/- 1.3 vs. 31.3 +/- 1.8 ng NE/heart per h, respectively). Thus adrenal medullary and sympathetic nervous system responses in fasting pregnant rats appear to be dissociated, which suggests that diet-induced changes in sympathetic activity and stimulation of the adrenal medulla by hypoglycemia may be independently regulated.", "PMID": 447847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8282", "title": "Inhibition of intrapituitary thyroxine to 3.5.3'-triiodothyronine conversion prevents the acute suppression of thyrotropin release by thyroxine in hypothyroid rats.", "content": "Iopanoic acid has been shown to block thyroxine (T4)-5'-monodeiodination in rat anterior pituitary in vitro. To test the hypothesis that the acute decrease in thyrotropin (TSH) after infusion of T4 into hypothyroid rats requires intrapituitary T4 to 3,5,3'-triiodothyroxine (T3) conversion, the effect of iopanoic acid treatment on the generation of nuclear T3 from intrapituitary conversion and the response to TSH were compared in control and iopanoic acid-treated animals. 5 mg/100 g body weight iopanoic acid given 24, 16, and 1.5 h before administration of 125I-T4 reduced the quantity of pituitary nuclear 125I-T3 from local (intrapituitary) T4 to T3 conversion by 60-100%. In association with inhibition of intrapituitary T4 to T3 conversion, there was an increase in the binding of 125I-T4 to the nuclear receptor of the pituitary but the total iodothyronine content of the nuclei was still less than half of the nuclear iodothyronine in control animals. Iopanoic acid did not affect the nuclear/plasma ratio of injected 131I-T3 in the same animals, but did appear to impair 131I-T3 clearance or reduce its distribution volume. Treatment with iopanoic acid did not reduce the quantity of nuclear 125I-T3 in the liver, kidney, or heart of the same animals more than expected from the changes in serum 125I-T3. In control hypo-thyroid animals pretreated with iopanoic acid, the mean TSH was not significantly decreased from the initial value by T4 injection. Iopanoic acid pretreatment did not interfere with the acute TSH response of chronically hypothyroid rats to 70 ng of T3/100 g body weight. These results establish that intrapituitary generations of T3 from T4 is required for the acute decrease in TSH which occurs after T4 infusion. The data also are consistent with the content that it is nuclear binding of the T3 generated from T4 which initiates the inhibition of TSH release.", "contents": "Inhibition of intrapituitary thyroxine to 3.5.3'-triiodothyronine conversion prevents the acute suppression of thyrotropin release by thyroxine in hypothyroid rats. Iopanoic acid has been shown to block thyroxine (T4)-5'-monodeiodination in rat anterior pituitary in vitro. To test the hypothesis that the acute decrease in thyrotropin (TSH) after infusion of T4 into hypothyroid rats requires intrapituitary T4 to 3,5,3'-triiodothyroxine (T3) conversion, the effect of iopanoic acid treatment on the generation of nuclear T3 from intrapituitary conversion and the response to TSH were compared in control and iopanoic acid-treated animals. 5 mg/100 g body weight iopanoic acid given 24, 16, and 1.5 h before administration of 125I-T4 reduced the quantity of pituitary nuclear 125I-T3 from local (intrapituitary) T4 to T3 conversion by 60-100%. In association with inhibition of intrapituitary T4 to T3 conversion, there was an increase in the binding of 125I-T4 to the nuclear receptor of the pituitary but the total iodothyronine content of the nuclei was still less than half of the nuclear iodothyronine in control animals. Iopanoic acid did not affect the nuclear/plasma ratio of injected 131I-T3 in the same animals, but did appear to impair 131I-T3 clearance or reduce its distribution volume. Treatment with iopanoic acid did not reduce the quantity of nuclear 125I-T3 in the liver, kidney, or heart of the same animals more than expected from the changes in serum 125I-T3. In control hypo-thyroid animals pretreated with iopanoic acid, the mean TSH was not significantly decreased from the initial value by T4 injection. Iopanoic acid pretreatment did not interfere with the acute TSH response of chronically hypothyroid rats to 70 ng of T3/100 g body weight. These results establish that intrapituitary generations of T3 from T4 is required for the acute decrease in TSH which occurs after T4 infusion. The data also are consistent with the content that it is nuclear binding of the T3 generated from T4 which initiates the inhibition of TSH release.", "PMID": 447848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8283", "title": "Lactic acidosis as a result of iron deficiency.", "content": "Iron-deficient rats have an impaired work performance, even when their anemia is corrected by exchange transfusion. Muscle activity is associated with a higher blood lactate concentration than is observed in iron-replete animals. The accumulation of lactate is a result of excessive production as lactate clearance from the blood was shown to be unaffected. By adjusting the work load to a lower level, it was possible to divide iron-deficient animals into two groups, one capable of continued treadmill running and another in which animals stopped before 20 min. In the former, blood lactate concentration reached a plateau at moderate levels, whereas it continued to increase in the latter until the animal stopped running. Levels of alpha-glycerophosphate oxidase in skeletal muscle mitochondria were found to be much lower in the second group (P < 0.001). Lactate infusion into normal animals was shown to interfere with work performance, and maintenance of a normal pH in iron-deficient and iron-replete animals did not prevent the impairment in work associated with high blood lactate concentrations. Additional evidence was obtained that energy substrate (blood glucose and free fatty acids, muscle glycogen) was adequate in irondeficient animals. Oxygen tension in their vena caval blood was higher than in controls. Furthermore, the in situ behavior of electrically stimulated gastroenemius and soleus muscles appeared similar to that of control animals. Because the stimulation of the single muscle in the iron-deficient animal did not result in appreciable elevation of blood lactate and did not show impaired contractility further supported the hypothesis that the elevation of blood lactate caused the decreased work performance. It is concluded that iron deficiency by a depletion in the iron-containing mitochondrial enzyme, alpha-glycerophosphate oxidase, impairs glycolysis, resulting in excess lactate formation, which at high levels leads to cessation of physical activity.", "contents": "Lactic acidosis as a result of iron deficiency. Iron-deficient rats have an impaired work performance, even when their anemia is corrected by exchange transfusion. Muscle activity is associated with a higher blood lactate concentration than is observed in iron-replete animals. The accumulation of lactate is a result of excessive production as lactate clearance from the blood was shown to be unaffected. By adjusting the work load to a lower level, it was possible to divide iron-deficient animals into two groups, one capable of continued treadmill running and another in which animals stopped before 20 min. In the former, blood lactate concentration reached a plateau at moderate levels, whereas it continued to increase in the latter until the animal stopped running. Levels of alpha-glycerophosphate oxidase in skeletal muscle mitochondria were found to be much lower in the second group (P < 0.001). Lactate infusion into normal animals was shown to interfere with work performance, and maintenance of a normal pH in iron-deficient and iron-replete animals did not prevent the impairment in work associated with high blood lactate concentrations. Additional evidence was obtained that energy substrate (blood glucose and free fatty acids, muscle glycogen) was adequate in irondeficient animals. Oxygen tension in their vena caval blood was higher than in controls. Furthermore, the in situ behavior of electrically stimulated gastroenemius and soleus muscles appeared similar to that of control animals. Because the stimulation of the single muscle in the iron-deficient animal did not result in appreciable elevation of blood lactate and did not show impaired contractility further supported the hypothesis that the elevation of blood lactate caused the decreased work performance. It is concluded that iron deficiency by a depletion in the iron-containing mitochondrial enzyme, alpha-glycerophosphate oxidase, impairs glycolysis, resulting in excess lactate formation, which at high levels leads to cessation of physical activity.", "PMID": 447849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8284", "title": "Transport of steroid hormones through the rat blood-brain barrier. Primary role of albumin-bound hormone.", "content": "These studies were undertaken to investigate (a) the permeability properties of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to the major gonadal and adrenal steroid hormones, and (b) the role of the binding proteins of plasma (albumin and specific globulins) in the regulation of BBB steroid hormone transport. The permeability of the BBB to [(3)H]-labeled progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, corticosterone, aldosterone, and cortisol, was measured relative to [(14)C]butanol, a freely diffusable reference, in the barbiturate anesthetized rat using a tissue sampling-single injection technique. The isotopes were rapidly injected in a 200-mul bolus of Ringer's solution (0.1 g/dl albumin) via the common carotid artery and the percent extraction of unidirectional influx of hormone was determined after a single pass through brain: progesterone, 83+/-4%; testosterone, 85+/-1%; estradiol, 83+/-3%; corticosterone, 39+/-2%; aldosterone, 3.5+/-0.8%; and cortisol, 1.4+/-0.3%. The selective permeability of the BBB was inversely related to the number of hydrogen bonds each steroid formed in aqueous solution and directly related to the respective 1-octanol/Ringer's partition coefficient. When the bolus injection was 67% human serum, >95% of the labeled steroid was bound as determined by equilibrium dialysis. However, the influx of the steroids through the BBB was inhibited by human serum to a much less extent than would be expected if only the free (dialyzable) hormone was transported; progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, and corticosterone transport was inhibited 18, 47, 70, and 85% respectively, or in proportion to the steroid binding to plasma globulins. Rat serum (67%) only inhibited the transport of these four hormones, 0, 13, 12, and 69%, respectively, reflecting the absence of a sex hormone-binding globulin in rat plasma. However, neonatal rat serum (67%) inhibited progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol transport 0, 0, and 91%, respectively, consistent with the presence of an estradiol-binding protein in neonatal rat serum. The binding of steroid hormone to bovine albumin in vitro (as determined by equilibrium dialysis) was compared to albumin binding in vivo (as determined by the single injection technique). The ratio of apparent dissociation constant in vivo, K(D)(app), to the in vitro K(D) was: >>200 for progesterone, >200 for testosterone, 120 for estradiol, and 7.7 for corticosterone. Assuming the steady-state condition, the K(D)(app)/K(D) was found to be proportional to the BBB permeability for each steroid. These data demonstrate (a) the selective permeability properties of the BBB to the major steroid hormones is proportional to the tendency of the steroid to partition in a polar lipid phase and is inversely related to the number of hydrogen bond-forming functional groups on the steroid nucleus; (b) the presence of albumin in serum may bind considerable quantities of steroid hormone, but exerts little inhibitory effects on the transport of steroids into brain, whereas globulin-bound hormone does not appear to be transported into brain to a significant extent. Therefore, the hormone fraction in plasma that is available for transport into brain is not restricted to the free (dialyzable) fraction, but includes the larger albumin-bound moiety.", "contents": "Transport of steroid hormones through the rat blood-brain barrier. Primary role of albumin-bound hormone. These studies were undertaken to investigate (a) the permeability properties of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to the major gonadal and adrenal steroid hormones, and (b) the role of the binding proteins of plasma (albumin and specific globulins) in the regulation of BBB steroid hormone transport. The permeability of the BBB to [(3)H]-labeled progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, corticosterone, aldosterone, and cortisol, was measured relative to [(14)C]butanol, a freely diffusable reference, in the barbiturate anesthetized rat using a tissue sampling-single injection technique. The isotopes were rapidly injected in a 200-mul bolus of Ringer's solution (0.1 g/dl albumin) via the common carotid artery and the percent extraction of unidirectional influx of hormone was determined after a single pass through brain: progesterone, 83+/-4%; testosterone, 85+/-1%; estradiol, 83+/-3%; corticosterone, 39+/-2%; aldosterone, 3.5+/-0.8%; and cortisol, 1.4+/-0.3%. The selective permeability of the BBB was inversely related to the number of hydrogen bonds each steroid formed in aqueous solution and directly related to the respective 1-octanol/Ringer's partition coefficient. When the bolus injection was 67% human serum, >95% of the labeled steroid was bound as determined by equilibrium dialysis. However, the influx of the steroids through the BBB was inhibited by human serum to a much less extent than would be expected if only the free (dialyzable) hormone was transported; progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, and corticosterone transport was inhibited 18, 47, 70, and 85% respectively, or in proportion to the steroid binding to plasma globulins. Rat serum (67%) only inhibited the transport of these four hormones, 0, 13, 12, and 69%, respectively, reflecting the absence of a sex hormone-binding globulin in rat plasma. However, neonatal rat serum (67%) inhibited progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol transport 0, 0, and 91%, respectively, consistent with the presence of an estradiol-binding protein in neonatal rat serum. The binding of steroid hormone to bovine albumin in vitro (as determined by equilibrium dialysis) was compared to albumin binding in vivo (as determined by the single injection technique). The ratio of apparent dissociation constant in vivo, K(D)(app), to the in vitro K(D) was: >>200 for progesterone, >200 for testosterone, 120 for estradiol, and 7.7 for corticosterone. Assuming the steady-state condition, the K(D)(app)/K(D) was found to be proportional to the BBB permeability for each steroid. These data demonstrate (a) the selective permeability properties of the BBB to the major steroid hormones is proportional to the tendency of the steroid to partition in a polar lipid phase and is inversely related to the number of hydrogen bond-forming functional groups on the steroid nucleus; (b) the presence of albumin in serum may bind considerable quantities of steroid hormone, but exerts little inhibitory effects on the transport of steroids into brain, whereas globulin-bound hormone does not appear to be transported into brain to a significant extent. Therefore, the hormone fraction in plasma that is available for transport into brain is not restricted to the free (dialyzable) fraction, but includes the larger albumin-bound moiety.", "PMID": 447850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8285", "title": "Creatine kinase release, potassium-42 content, and mechanical performance in anoxic rabbit myocardium.", "content": "We studied whether creatine kinase appearance in venous effluent was specific for, and quantitatively proportional to, the amount of loss of functioning myocardium. Cell viability was determined by simultaneously monitoring tissue (42)K content and mechanical performance during anoxia and reoxygenation in isolated, arterially perfused, interventricular rabbit septa. The septa were paced at 42 beats/min and perfused at 1.8 ml/min per g tissue with a modified Tyrode solution at 28 degrees C. Net total creatine kinase losses of 5.3+/-2.7, 20.6+/-7.2, 55.3+/-7.6, and 110.7+/-27.1 IU/g dry wt (mean+/-SEM) were observed after 20, 30, 40, and 60 min of anoxia, respectively. Maximum (42)K losses during the same intervals of anoxia were 16.8+/-3.4, 38.3+/-2.9, 47.0+/-1.4, and 84.3+/-14.8 mmol K(+)/kg dry wt and correlated with creatine kinase losses, r = 0.97. Upon reoxygenation, (42)K content returned to a new plateau which was expressed as a percentage of decrease from control content. These unrecovered (42)K losses were -2.7+/-0.9, 0.7+/-2.9, 6.6+/-1.9, and 14.0+/-6.5% after 20, 30, 40, and 60 min of anoxia, respectively, and correlated with the creatine kinase loss, r = 0.97. Net loss of developed tension after reoxygenation was 9.0+/-2.3, 26.7+/-17.9, 31.7+/-1.1, and 60.7+/-8.8% of control after these anoxic intervals and correlated with creatine kinase loss, r = 0.92. The small enzyme loss that occurred after 20 min anoxia without evidence for irreversible loss of cell function was congruent with0.1% of total tissue enzyme content. The significant correlation of enzyme loss with the irreversible losses of potassium content and contractile performance supported the hypothesis that creatine kinase appearance in the venous effluent was the result of cell death.", "contents": "Creatine kinase release, potassium-42 content, and mechanical performance in anoxic rabbit myocardium. We studied whether creatine kinase appearance in venous effluent was specific for, and quantitatively proportional to, the amount of loss of functioning myocardium. Cell viability was determined by simultaneously monitoring tissue (42)K content and mechanical performance during anoxia and reoxygenation in isolated, arterially perfused, interventricular rabbit septa. The septa were paced at 42 beats/min and perfused at 1.8 ml/min per g tissue with a modified Tyrode solution at 28 degrees C. Net total creatine kinase losses of 5.3+/-2.7, 20.6+/-7.2, 55.3+/-7.6, and 110.7+/-27.1 IU/g dry wt (mean+/-SEM) were observed after 20, 30, 40, and 60 min of anoxia, respectively. Maximum (42)K losses during the same intervals of anoxia were 16.8+/-3.4, 38.3+/-2.9, 47.0+/-1.4, and 84.3+/-14.8 mmol K(+)/kg dry wt and correlated with creatine kinase losses, r = 0.97. Upon reoxygenation, (42)K content returned to a new plateau which was expressed as a percentage of decrease from control content. These unrecovered (42)K losses were -2.7+/-0.9, 0.7+/-2.9, 6.6+/-1.9, and 14.0+/-6.5% after 20, 30, 40, and 60 min of anoxia, respectively, and correlated with the creatine kinase loss, r = 0.97. Net loss of developed tension after reoxygenation was 9.0+/-2.3, 26.7+/-17.9, 31.7+/-1.1, and 60.7+/-8.8% of control after these anoxic intervals and correlated with creatine kinase loss, r = 0.92. The small enzyme loss that occurred after 20 min anoxia without evidence for irreversible loss of cell function was congruent with0.1% of total tissue enzyme content. The significant correlation of enzyme loss with the irreversible losses of potassium content and contractile performance supported the hypothesis that creatine kinase appearance in the venous effluent was the result of cell death.", "PMID": 447851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8286", "title": "Mechanism of postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in the anesthetized dog.", "content": "The mechanism of postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction was studied in 28 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (30 mg/kg i.v.). Rapid atrial or ventricular pacing or induction of atrial fibrilation were used to produce at least 20% prompt decrease in cardiac output and mean arterial blood pressure. Return to control cardiac output and blood pressure occurred within 3 minutes after cessation of the arrhythmia, but renal blood flow remained significantly decreased (26%) with gradual recovery by 17.7 +/- 6.6 min. Infusion of phentolamine (0.25 mg/min) into the renal artery, intravenous hexamethonium (l mg/kg), adrenal demedullation, or cooling the cervical vagi prevented postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. In contrast, renal denervation, intravenous bretylium (10 mg/kg), intravenous atropine (0.5 mg/kg) or intrarenal SQ 20881 (0.20 mg/min) has no effect on postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. Intravenous propranolol (0.5 mg/kg) intensified postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. These data suggested that the postarrhythmic renal vasoconstrictive response required intact vagi and was due to alpha adrenergic stimulation by adrenal catecholamines. However, femoral arterial catecholamine levels were not elevated above control during postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. We therefore sought local vascular pathways by which catecholamines might reach the kidneys. An adrenorenal vascular network was found in each dog. Collection of catecholamines from these vessels during postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in six dogs revealed catecholamine concentrations threefold higher than simultaneously collected femoral arterial catecholamines levels. Because ligation of these vessels abolished postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in each dog, we conclude that postarrhythmic renal vasconstriction is due to adrenal catecholamines reaching the kidneys through an adreno-renal vascular network and that the response requires intact vagi.", "contents": "Mechanism of postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in the anesthetized dog. The mechanism of postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction was studied in 28 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (30 mg/kg i.v.). Rapid atrial or ventricular pacing or induction of atrial fibrilation were used to produce at least 20% prompt decrease in cardiac output and mean arterial blood pressure. Return to control cardiac output and blood pressure occurred within 3 minutes after cessation of the arrhythmia, but renal blood flow remained significantly decreased (26%) with gradual recovery by 17.7 +/- 6.6 min. Infusion of phentolamine (0.25 mg/min) into the renal artery, intravenous hexamethonium (l mg/kg), adrenal demedullation, or cooling the cervical vagi prevented postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. In contrast, renal denervation, intravenous bretylium (10 mg/kg), intravenous atropine (0.5 mg/kg) or intrarenal SQ 20881 (0.20 mg/min) has no effect on postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. Intravenous propranolol (0.5 mg/kg) intensified postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. These data suggested that the postarrhythmic renal vasoconstrictive response required intact vagi and was due to alpha adrenergic stimulation by adrenal catecholamines. However, femoral arterial catecholamine levels were not elevated above control during postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction. We therefore sought local vascular pathways by which catecholamines might reach the kidneys. An adrenorenal vascular network was found in each dog. Collection of catecholamines from these vessels during postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in six dogs revealed catecholamine concentrations threefold higher than simultaneously collected femoral arterial catecholamines levels. Because ligation of these vessels abolished postarrhythmic renal vasoconstriction in each dog, we conclude that postarrhythmic renal vasconstriction is due to adrenal catecholamines reaching the kidneys through an adreno-renal vascular network and that the response requires intact vagi.", "PMID": 447852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8287", "title": "Sex differences in long chain fatty acid utilization and fatty acid binding protein concentration in rat liver.", "content": "Female sex and estrogen administration are associated with increased hepatic production of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins; the basis for this has not been fully elucidated. Inasmuch as hepatic lipoprotein production is also influenced by FFA availability and triglyceride biosynthesis, we investigated sex differences in FFA utilization in rat hepatocyte suspensions and in the components of the triglyceride biosynthetic pathway. Isolated adult rat hepatocyte suspensions were incubated with albumin-bound [(14)C]oleate for up to 15 min. At physiological and low oleate concentrations, cells from females incorporated significantly more (14)C into glycerolipids, especially triglycerides, and into oxidation products than did male cells, per milligram cell protein. At 0.44 mM oleate, incorporation into triglycerides in female cells was approximately twice that in male cells. Comparable sex differences were observed in cells from fasted animals and when [(14)C]-glycerol incorporation was measured. At higher oleate concentrations, i.e., fatty acid:albumin mole ratios in excess of 2:1, these sex differences were no longer demonstrable, suggesting that maximal rates of fatty acid esterification and oxidation were similar in female and male cells. In female and male hepatic microsomes, specific activities of long chain acyl coenzyme A synthetase, phosphatidate phosphohydrolase, and diglyceride acyltransferase were similar, but glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase activity was slightly greater in females at certain substrate concentrations. Microsomal incorporation of [(14)C]oleate into total glycerolipids was not significantly greater in females. In further contrast to intact cells, microsomal incorporation of [(14)C]oleate into triglycerides, although significantly greater in female microsomes, accounted for only a small fraction of the fatty acid esterified.The binding affinity and stoichiometry of partially purified female hepatic fatty acid binding protein (FABP) were similar to those of male FABP. In contrast, the concentration of FABP, per milligram cytosolic protein, was 44% greater in female liver than in male, as indicated by measurement of [(14)C]oleate binding and of 280 nm OD in the FABP fraction of 105,000 g supernate after gel filtration chromatography. These experiments demonstrate profound sex differences in hepatocyte utilization of long chain fatty acids at concentrations within and below the physiological range, and suggest that these are attributable at least in part to corresponding differences in cytosolic FABP concentration. At higher FFA concentrations, sex differences in hepatocyte FFA utilization are virtually eliminated, suggesting that under these conditions, differences in FABP concentration are not rate determining. Sex differences in hepatic lipoprotein production may largely reflect these important differences in the initial stages of hepatocyte FFA utilization.", "contents": "Sex differences in long chain fatty acid utilization and fatty acid binding protein concentration in rat liver. Female sex and estrogen administration are associated with increased hepatic production of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins; the basis for this has not been fully elucidated. Inasmuch as hepatic lipoprotein production is also influenced by FFA availability and triglyceride biosynthesis, we investigated sex differences in FFA utilization in rat hepatocyte suspensions and in the components of the triglyceride biosynthetic pathway. Isolated adult rat hepatocyte suspensions were incubated with albumin-bound [(14)C]oleate for up to 15 min. At physiological and low oleate concentrations, cells from females incorporated significantly more (14)C into glycerolipids, especially triglycerides, and into oxidation products than did male cells, per milligram cell protein. At 0.44 mM oleate, incorporation into triglycerides in female cells was approximately twice that in male cells. Comparable sex differences were observed in cells from fasted animals and when [(14)C]-glycerol incorporation was measured. At higher oleate concentrations, i.e., fatty acid:albumin mole ratios in excess of 2:1, these sex differences were no longer demonstrable, suggesting that maximal rates of fatty acid esterification and oxidation were similar in female and male cells. In female and male hepatic microsomes, specific activities of long chain acyl coenzyme A synthetase, phosphatidate phosphohydrolase, and diglyceride acyltransferase were similar, but glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase activity was slightly greater in females at certain substrate concentrations. Microsomal incorporation of [(14)C]oleate into total glycerolipids was not significantly greater in females. In further contrast to intact cells, microsomal incorporation of [(14)C]oleate into triglycerides, although significantly greater in female microsomes, accounted for only a small fraction of the fatty acid esterified.The binding affinity and stoichiometry of partially purified female hepatic fatty acid binding protein (FABP) were similar to those of male FABP. In contrast, the concentration of FABP, per milligram cytosolic protein, was 44% greater in female liver than in male, as indicated by measurement of [(14)C]oleate binding and of 280 nm OD in the FABP fraction of 105,000 g supernate after gel filtration chromatography. These experiments demonstrate profound sex differences in hepatocyte utilization of long chain fatty acids at concentrations within and below the physiological range, and suggest that these are attributable at least in part to corresponding differences in cytosolic FABP concentration. At higher FFA concentrations, sex differences in hepatocyte FFA utilization are virtually eliminated, suggesting that under these conditions, differences in FABP concentration are not rate determining. Sex differences in hepatic lipoprotein production may largely reflect these important differences in the initial stages of hepatocyte FFA utilization.", "PMID": 447853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8288", "title": "Influence of thyroid status on lipid metabolism in the perfused rat liver.", "content": "Thyroid disease is often accompanied by changes in the concentrations of serum lipids and lipoproteins. To evaluate the hepatic contribution to the serum abnormalities in thyroid disease, we examined fatty acid metabolism in perfused livers from pair-fed rats made hypothyroid with propylthiouracil (PTU) or made hyperthyroid by treatment with triiodothyronine (T(3)). The animals treated with T(3) became hyperphagic, depending on dose of drug and duration of hyperthyroidism. It was necessary, therefore, for appropriate controls, that food intake of T(3)-treated rats be restricted to quantities consumed by euthyroid rats. Animals treated with PTU for 2 wk became hypophagic, and therefore, food consumption of controls was restricted to that eaten by rats receiving PTU. Dependent on dose of T(3) and duration of treatment, the output of triglyceride and glucose was diminished, whereas output of ketone bodies was increased by livers from hyperthyroid animals. In contrast, livers from PTU-treated animals secreted increased amounts of triglyceride and glucose, whereas ketogenesis was diminished. The best models for study proved to be animals treated with either 10 mug T(3)/100 g body wt per d or 1 mg PTU/100 g body wt per d for 7 d. Under these conditions, all animals consumed the same quantity of food as did the euthyroid rats, but continued to display the metabolic alterations outlined above. The effects of PTU on hepatic metabolism were readily reversible by simultaneous administration of T(3). It is clear from these data that the thyroid status of the rat regulates hepatic triglyceride formation and secretion, and ketogenesis.", "contents": "Influence of thyroid status on lipid metabolism in the perfused rat liver. Thyroid disease is often accompanied by changes in the concentrations of serum lipids and lipoproteins. To evaluate the hepatic contribution to the serum abnormalities in thyroid disease, we examined fatty acid metabolism in perfused livers from pair-fed rats made hypothyroid with propylthiouracil (PTU) or made hyperthyroid by treatment with triiodothyronine (T(3)). The animals treated with T(3) became hyperphagic, depending on dose of drug and duration of hyperthyroidism. It was necessary, therefore, for appropriate controls, that food intake of T(3)-treated rats be restricted to quantities consumed by euthyroid rats. Animals treated with PTU for 2 wk became hypophagic, and therefore, food consumption of controls was restricted to that eaten by rats receiving PTU. Dependent on dose of T(3) and duration of treatment, the output of triglyceride and glucose was diminished, whereas output of ketone bodies was increased by livers from hyperthyroid animals. In contrast, livers from PTU-treated animals secreted increased amounts of triglyceride and glucose, whereas ketogenesis was diminished. The best models for study proved to be animals treated with either 10 mug T(3)/100 g body wt per d or 1 mg PTU/100 g body wt per d for 7 d. Under these conditions, all animals consumed the same quantity of food as did the euthyroid rats, but continued to display the metabolic alterations outlined above. The effects of PTU on hepatic metabolism were readily reversible by simultaneous administration of T(3). It is clear from these data that the thyroid status of the rat regulates hepatic triglyceride formation and secretion, and ketogenesis.", "PMID": 447854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8289", "title": "Pattern of insulin delivery after intravenous glucose injection in man and its relation to plasma glucose disappearance.", "content": "Plasma insulin concentrations after pulse intravenous injection of glucose show an early rise, which declines towards the prestimulation level smoothly. This pattern is the effect of both continuing secretion and hormone disappearance from the plasma. To reconstruct the time-course of the acutal secretory response, we measured insulin disappearance from the plasma of 17 healthy volunteers by means of a bolus intravenous injection of 125I-insulin, and then performed an intravenous glucose tolerance test with frequent blood sampling. The data were analyzed by deconvolution, which made it possible to compute the glucose-induced posthepatic insulin delivery rate minute by minute. Under basal conditions, 2.64 +/- 0.28 (mean +/-SEM) mU/min.m2 reaches the systemic circulation. In the 90 min that follow acute glucose stimulation, 0.86 +/- 0.11 U/m2, a 270% increment over the basal production rate, is made available to the periphery. A wide individual variability was found to exist in both the basal and the glucose-stimulated delivery. They were strongly (P less than 0.001) related to each other in a direct fashion. A first spike of insulin release (107 +/- 12 mU/min) occurred in all the subjects at 2.2 +/- 0.2 min followed, in 16 subjects, by a second spike (38 +/- 6 mU/min), at 11.3 +/- 0.9 min. Two-thirds of the total postglucose insulin output were associated with the initial, oscillatory phase (from 0 to 25 min, on average), and one-third with the \"tail\" phase (from 25 to 90 min), during which the average delivery rate was 5.0 +/- 0.9 mU/min.m2. The delivery curves were closely (mean squared deviation of 4.5 +/- 0.5 mU/min) reproduced by computer stimulation upon assuming that insulin secretion is a function of both glucose concentration and glucose rate of change. Both the first and the second spike of insulin delivery, but not the total insulin output during the test, showed a significant, positive correlation with the plasma glucose disappearance rate computed between 10 and 60 min. Furthermore, with a time shift of approximately equal to 15 min, a significant relationship between the phases of insulin secretion and the glucose decay rates, computed over corresponding time intervals, was evident throughout the test.", "contents": "Pattern of insulin delivery after intravenous glucose injection in man and its relation to plasma glucose disappearance. Plasma insulin concentrations after pulse intravenous injection of glucose show an early rise, which declines towards the prestimulation level smoothly. This pattern is the effect of both continuing secretion and hormone disappearance from the plasma. To reconstruct the time-course of the acutal secretory response, we measured insulin disappearance from the plasma of 17 healthy volunteers by means of a bolus intravenous injection of 125I-insulin, and then performed an intravenous glucose tolerance test with frequent blood sampling. The data were analyzed by deconvolution, which made it possible to compute the glucose-induced posthepatic insulin delivery rate minute by minute. Under basal conditions, 2.64 +/- 0.28 (mean +/-SEM) mU/min.m2 reaches the systemic circulation. In the 90 min that follow acute glucose stimulation, 0.86 +/- 0.11 U/m2, a 270% increment over the basal production rate, is made available to the periphery. A wide individual variability was found to exist in both the basal and the glucose-stimulated delivery. They were strongly (P less than 0.001) related to each other in a direct fashion. A first spike of insulin release (107 +/- 12 mU/min) occurred in all the subjects at 2.2 +/- 0.2 min followed, in 16 subjects, by a second spike (38 +/- 6 mU/min), at 11.3 +/- 0.9 min. Two-thirds of the total postglucose insulin output were associated with the initial, oscillatory phase (from 0 to 25 min, on average), and one-third with the \"tail\" phase (from 25 to 90 min), during which the average delivery rate was 5.0 +/- 0.9 mU/min.m2. The delivery curves were closely (mean squared deviation of 4.5 +/- 0.5 mU/min) reproduced by computer stimulation upon assuming that insulin secretion is a function of both glucose concentration and glucose rate of change. Both the first and the second spike of insulin delivery, but not the total insulin output during the test, showed a significant, positive correlation with the plasma glucose disappearance rate computed between 10 and 60 min. Furthermore, with a time shift of approximately equal to 15 min, a significant relationship between the phases of insulin secretion and the glucose decay rates, computed over corresponding time intervals, was evident throughout the test.", "PMID": 447855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8290", "title": "Serum inhibitor of C5 fragment-mediated polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis associated with chronic hemodialysis.", "content": "Abnormal granulocyte chemotaxis has been described in chronic hemodialysis patients. In this study, sera from 53 hemodialysis patients were tested for chemotactic inhibitory activity by a modified Boyden technique. Chemotactic inhibitory activity, defined as >20% inhibition of normal granulocyte chemotaxis, was found in 45% of patients. Only sera from patients having undergone >3 mo hemodialysis displayed chemotactic inhibitory activity and retained this inhibitory activity when retested 9 mo later. Four of five patients who had initially undergone <3 mo hemodialysis and lacked serum chemotactic inhibitory activity developed inhibitory activity when tested 9 mo later. Clinical evaluation of patients with serum chemotactic inhibitory activity showed that these patients did not have a significantly increased incidence of infection, although a trend toward decreased mortality during the time of study was observed (P = 0.0721). Serum chemotactic inhibitory activity was heat stable at 56 degrees C for 30 min and concentration dependent. The major inhibitory component was found to have a sedimentation coefficient of 4S by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The chemotactic inhibitory activity was not precipitated by 30% ammonium sulfate, but was partially precipitated by 50% ammonium sulfate. Inhibitory sera effectively suppressed neutrophil migration in response to chemotactic C5 fragment and Escherichia coli derived chemotactic factor but was least effective in a system mediated by casein. Furthermore, normal neutrophils preincubated in hemodialysis patient sera displayed normal chemotactic responsiveness indicating a lack of cell-directed inhibition. Serum fractions that contained the inhibitor were found to directly act on the chemotactic C5 fragment, reducing its chemotactic activity. This study indicates that a circulating 4S, heat-stable, factor-directed inhibitor of granulocyte chemotaxis is present in the sera of many hemodialysis patients and probably results from the hemodialysis procedure.", "contents": "Serum inhibitor of C5 fragment-mediated polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis associated with chronic hemodialysis. Abnormal granulocyte chemotaxis has been described in chronic hemodialysis patients. In this study, sera from 53 hemodialysis patients were tested for chemotactic inhibitory activity by a modified Boyden technique. Chemotactic inhibitory activity, defined as >20% inhibition of normal granulocyte chemotaxis, was found in 45% of patients. Only sera from patients having undergone >3 mo hemodialysis displayed chemotactic inhibitory activity and retained this inhibitory activity when retested 9 mo later. Four of five patients who had initially undergone <3 mo hemodialysis and lacked serum chemotactic inhibitory activity developed inhibitory activity when tested 9 mo later. Clinical evaluation of patients with serum chemotactic inhibitory activity showed that these patients did not have a significantly increased incidence of infection, although a trend toward decreased mortality during the time of study was observed (P = 0.0721). Serum chemotactic inhibitory activity was heat stable at 56 degrees C for 30 min and concentration dependent. The major inhibitory component was found to have a sedimentation coefficient of 4S by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The chemotactic inhibitory activity was not precipitated by 30% ammonium sulfate, but was partially precipitated by 50% ammonium sulfate. Inhibitory sera effectively suppressed neutrophil migration in response to chemotactic C5 fragment and Escherichia coli derived chemotactic factor but was least effective in a system mediated by casein. Furthermore, normal neutrophils preincubated in hemodialysis patient sera displayed normal chemotactic responsiveness indicating a lack of cell-directed inhibition. Serum fractions that contained the inhibitor were found to directly act on the chemotactic C5 fragment, reducing its chemotactic activity. This study indicates that a circulating 4S, heat-stable, factor-directed inhibitor of granulocyte chemotaxis is present in the sera of many hemodialysis patients and probably results from the hemodialysis procedure.", "PMID": 447856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8291", "title": "Dopamine inhibits angiotensin-stimulated aldosterone biosynthesis in bovine adrenal cells.", "content": "The possibility that dopamine may play a role in the in vivo control of aldosterone production in man was suggested to us by reports from others; (a) that bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, inhibits the aldosterone response to diuresis and to the infusion of angiotensin or ACTH; and (b) that metaclopramide, a dopamine blocking agent, causes elevations in plasma aldosterone levels. To determine whether such effects were direct or indirect, we examined the action of dopamine on aldosterone biosynthesis in isolated, bovine adrenal cells. Dopamine significantly inhibits the aldosterone response to angiotensin (P < 0.001), but does not influence basal aldosterone biosynthesis. It has previously been reported that angiotensin stimulates both the early and late phases of aldosterone biosynthesis. The present experiments demonstrated that the enhancing effect of angiotensin on the conversion of deoxycorticosterone to aldosterone (late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis) was almost completely inhibited by dopamine (P < 0.001). A significant inhibitory effect of dopamine (10 nM) was seen even when aldosterone biosynthesis was stimulated by a grossly supraphysiological concentration of angiotensin II (10 muM). However, these studies did not demonstrate any direct effect of dopamine on the early phase of aldosterone biosynthesis (cholesterol to pregnenolone) basally or when stimulated, or on the late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis under basal conditions. These in vitro studies suggest a direct inhibitory role for dopamine on the late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis, which may account for the in vivo inhibition of the aldosterone response to angiotensin in subjects treated with a dopaminergic agent.", "contents": "Dopamine inhibits angiotensin-stimulated aldosterone biosynthesis in bovine adrenal cells. The possibility that dopamine may play a role in the in vivo control of aldosterone production in man was suggested to us by reports from others; (a) that bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, inhibits the aldosterone response to diuresis and to the infusion of angiotensin or ACTH; and (b) that metaclopramide, a dopamine blocking agent, causes elevations in plasma aldosterone levels. To determine whether such effects were direct or indirect, we examined the action of dopamine on aldosterone biosynthesis in isolated, bovine adrenal cells. Dopamine significantly inhibits the aldosterone response to angiotensin (P < 0.001), but does not influence basal aldosterone biosynthesis. It has previously been reported that angiotensin stimulates both the early and late phases of aldosterone biosynthesis. The present experiments demonstrated that the enhancing effect of angiotensin on the conversion of deoxycorticosterone to aldosterone (late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis) was almost completely inhibited by dopamine (P < 0.001). A significant inhibitory effect of dopamine (10 nM) was seen even when aldosterone biosynthesis was stimulated by a grossly supraphysiological concentration of angiotensin II (10 muM). However, these studies did not demonstrate any direct effect of dopamine on the early phase of aldosterone biosynthesis (cholesterol to pregnenolone) basally or when stimulated, or on the late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis under basal conditions. These in vitro studies suggest a direct inhibitory role for dopamine on the late phase of aldosterone biosynthesis, which may account for the in vivo inhibition of the aldosterone response to angiotensin in subjects treated with a dopaminergic agent.", "PMID": 447857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8292", "title": "Increased glycosaminoglycan accumulation as a genetic characteristic in cell cultures of one variety of dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.", "content": "Fibroblast cultures from patients with dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa of the albopapuloid variety display deranged glycosaminoglycan metabolism. These cells accumulate increased amounts of sulfated glycosaminoglycans. The mechanism for the greater content of glycosaminoglycans appears to be related to increased synthesis. During the first 6-12 h, intracellular labeled glycosaminoglycans accumulated in the dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa cells at about twice the rate as that of control fibroblasts. In addition, secretion of sulfated glycosaminoglycans was two- to threefold greater than in control cultures. In contrast, both pulse-chase and cross-correction experiments failed to show any evidence for defective degradation of the material. The biochemical trait is genetically specific for albopapuloid dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, since fibroblasts from patients with other varieties of epidermolysis bullosa did not accumulate increased glycosaminoglycans. The data suggest that in vitro abnormality in glycosaminoglycan metabolism could serve as an important marker for this variety of epidermolysis bullosa and be of genetic and prognostic value in the sporadic patient with epidermolysis bullosa. Although the precise relationship of the defect to the disease has not yet been defined, it is possible that excessive tissue accumulation of glycosaminoglycans may alter collagen fibril deposition, thus, impairing the structural integrity of the skin and leading to posttraumatic blisters and erosions that characterize the disease.", "contents": "Increased glycosaminoglycan accumulation as a genetic characteristic in cell cultures of one variety of dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Fibroblast cultures from patients with dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa of the albopapuloid variety display deranged glycosaminoglycan metabolism. These cells accumulate increased amounts of sulfated glycosaminoglycans. The mechanism for the greater content of glycosaminoglycans appears to be related to increased synthesis. During the first 6-12 h, intracellular labeled glycosaminoglycans accumulated in the dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa cells at about twice the rate as that of control fibroblasts. In addition, secretion of sulfated glycosaminoglycans was two- to threefold greater than in control cultures. In contrast, both pulse-chase and cross-correction experiments failed to show any evidence for defective degradation of the material. The biochemical trait is genetically specific for albopapuloid dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, since fibroblasts from patients with other varieties of epidermolysis bullosa did not accumulate increased glycosaminoglycans. The data suggest that in vitro abnormality in glycosaminoglycan metabolism could serve as an important marker for this variety of epidermolysis bullosa and be of genetic and prognostic value in the sporadic patient with epidermolysis bullosa. Although the precise relationship of the defect to the disease has not yet been defined, it is possible that excessive tissue accumulation of glycosaminoglycans may alter collagen fibril deposition, thus, impairing the structural integrity of the skin and leading to posttraumatic blisters and erosions that characterize the disease.", "PMID": 447858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8293", "title": "Effect of heat on the circular dichroism of spectrin in hereditary pyropoikilocytosis.", "content": "Hereditary pyropikilocytosis is a hemolytic anemia in which the erythrocytes show increased sensitivity to heat-induced fragmentation. Circular dichroism measurements were employed to study the effect of heat on the secondary structure of pyropoikilocyte membrane proteins. The magnitude of the ellipticity at 222 nm over the temperature range from 25 degrees to 70 degrees C was determined for erythrocyte ghosts, spectrin, and ghost residue after extraction. In pyropoikilocyte ghosts, protein denaturation began at a lower temperature and the midpoint of the structural transition was displaced from 49 degrees C (the value for normal ghosts) to 44 degrees C. This thermal transition was present in spectrin, but not in the ghost residue after extraction. We conclude that an abnormality in the spectrin molecule alters the physical and morphologic properties of the erythrocyte membrane in pyropoikilocytosis.", "contents": "Effect of heat on the circular dichroism of spectrin in hereditary pyropoikilocytosis. Hereditary pyropikilocytosis is a hemolytic anemia in which the erythrocytes show increased sensitivity to heat-induced fragmentation. Circular dichroism measurements were employed to study the effect of heat on the secondary structure of pyropoikilocyte membrane proteins. The magnitude of the ellipticity at 222 nm over the temperature range from 25 degrees to 70 degrees C was determined for erythrocyte ghosts, spectrin, and ghost residue after extraction. In pyropoikilocyte ghosts, protein denaturation began at a lower temperature and the midpoint of the structural transition was displaced from 49 degrees C (the value for normal ghosts) to 44 degrees C. This thermal transition was present in spectrin, but not in the ghost residue after extraction. We conclude that an abnormality in the spectrin molecule alters the physical and morphologic properties of the erythrocyte membrane in pyropoikilocytosis.", "PMID": 447859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8294", "title": "Effect of thrombin on the fibrinolytic activity of cultured bovine endothelial cells.", "content": "The vascular endothelium is a rich source of plasminogen activator (PA) and thus of blood vessel-associated fibrinolytic activity. Cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells were employed to determine if components of the coagulation system interact with the endothelium to modify expression of this activity. The addition of thrombin to these cultures led to a rapid decline in intracellular PA activity, with as little as 3 ng/ml, or 0.1 nM thrombin causing a 50% decrease within 30 min. Thrombin inactivated with diisopropylflurophosphate or hirudin did not elicit the response. Although control cultures secreted high levels of PA, no PA activity could be detected in the media surrounding the thrombin-treated cells. This loss of activity did not appear to result from direct inactivation of PA by thrombin. These observations indicate that the fibrinolytic potential of cultured endothelial cells is rapidly suppressed by trace amounts of thrombin. The generation of thrombin at sites of vascular injury may have a similar effect on the endothelium.", "contents": "Effect of thrombin on the fibrinolytic activity of cultured bovine endothelial cells. The vascular endothelium is a rich source of plasminogen activator (PA) and thus of blood vessel-associated fibrinolytic activity. Cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells were employed to determine if components of the coagulation system interact with the endothelium to modify expression of this activity. The addition of thrombin to these cultures led to a rapid decline in intracellular PA activity, with as little as 3 ng/ml, or 0.1 nM thrombin causing a 50% decrease within 30 min. Thrombin inactivated with diisopropylflurophosphate or hirudin did not elicit the response. Although control cultures secreted high levels of PA, no PA activity could be detected in the media surrounding the thrombin-treated cells. This loss of activity did not appear to result from direct inactivation of PA by thrombin. These observations indicate that the fibrinolytic potential of cultured endothelial cells is rapidly suppressed by trace amounts of thrombin. The generation of thrombin at sites of vascular injury may have a similar effect on the endothelium.", "PMID": 447860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8295", "title": "Modulating influence of chemotactic factor-induced cell adhesiveness on granulocyte function.", "content": "The importance of adhesion in regulating locomotion and accumulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) has remained vague. We found that the chemotaxis of human PMN resuspended in heat-inactivated plasma was maximal toward 1-10 nM N-formyl-met-leu-phe (f-Met-Leu-Phe), but fell below random motility toward >/= 100 nM. This impressive decrease of motility was paralleled by increased cell adherence on Petri dishes being minimal at 1 nM and maximal at >10 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe (6+/-1 and 37+/-2% [SE] adherent cells, respectively). Checked by phase-contrast microscopy, cells under stimulated adhesion lost the typical bipolar shape of moving PMN and became immobilized and highly flattened. PMN, preexposed to 250 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe and tested after washing, retained increased adhesiveness and showed extremely low random and chemotactic motility. In contrast, preexposure to 1 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe had no effect on chemotaxis. Supporting the concept that immobilizing hyperadhesiveness does not correspond to a general functional hyporesponsiveness of PMN, no depression of the initial ingestion rate was observed in the presence of 250 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe. Moreover, a close correlation was found between the induction of PMN adhesiveness and the stimulation of the hexose monophosphate pathway activity as well as of lysomal enzyme release (r >/= 0.98). Thus, \"chemotactic deactivation\" and \"high-dose inhibition of chemotaxis\" by N-formyl peptides is the consequence of increased cell adhesiveness. This phenomenon provides a mechanism for cell trapping at the inflammatory site. Conversely, if operative in circulating blood, e.g., in septicemia, it may impair PMN emigration to such sites.", "contents": "Modulating influence of chemotactic factor-induced cell adhesiveness on granulocyte function. The importance of adhesion in regulating locomotion and accumulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) has remained vague. We found that the chemotaxis of human PMN resuspended in heat-inactivated plasma was maximal toward 1-10 nM N-formyl-met-leu-phe (f-Met-Leu-Phe), but fell below random motility toward >/= 100 nM. This impressive decrease of motility was paralleled by increased cell adherence on Petri dishes being minimal at 1 nM and maximal at >10 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe (6+/-1 and 37+/-2% [SE] adherent cells, respectively). Checked by phase-contrast microscopy, cells under stimulated adhesion lost the typical bipolar shape of moving PMN and became immobilized and highly flattened. PMN, preexposed to 250 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe and tested after washing, retained increased adhesiveness and showed extremely low random and chemotactic motility. In contrast, preexposure to 1 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe had no effect on chemotaxis. Supporting the concept that immobilizing hyperadhesiveness does not correspond to a general functional hyporesponsiveness of PMN, no depression of the initial ingestion rate was observed in the presence of 250 nM f-Met-Leu-Phe. Moreover, a close correlation was found between the induction of PMN adhesiveness and the stimulation of the hexose monophosphate pathway activity as well as of lysomal enzyme release (r >/= 0.98). Thus, \"chemotactic deactivation\" and \"high-dose inhibition of chemotaxis\" by N-formyl peptides is the consequence of increased cell adhesiveness. This phenomenon provides a mechanism for cell trapping at the inflammatory site. Conversely, if operative in circulating blood, e.g., in septicemia, it may impair PMN emigration to such sites.", "PMID": 447862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8296", "title": "Kinetics of the normal folate enterohepatic cycle.", "content": "Detailed studies were undertaken to better define the role of the liver and the folate enterohepatic cycle in folate homeostasis. Three isotopes of folate were employed in a rat model to study several parameters: (a) intestinal transport; (b) variation in hepatic uptake after different routes of administration; (c) hepatic reduction, methylation, and polyglutamate formation; (d) biliary excretion; (e) transport of folate to tissue and its return to liver for re-entry into the enterohepatic cycle. Folate absorption was not affected by the type of folate administered, but subsequent liver accumulation was greater when PteGlu(1) was given rather than CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1). After liver uptake, CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1) is rapidly and quantitatively excreted into bile, whereas nonmethylated folates are either methylated and transported into bile or incorporated into a hepatic polyglutamate pool. Bile folate is then reabsorbed for distribution to both tissue and liver, completing the enterohepatic cycle. The importance of this cycle was demonstrated by long-term bile drainage and by transport studies with two isotopes of CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1). With bile drainage, serum folate levels fell to 30-40% of normal within 6 h, a much more dramatic drop than that seen with folate-free diets alone. Studies with labeled CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1) demonstrated that about one-third was taken up by tissue, demethylated, and returned to liver for remethylation and recirculation through the bile and gut. This establishes the enterohepatic cycle as a major factor in folate homeostasis and, for the first time, demonstrates a transport pathway between tissue and liver for nonmethylated folate.", "contents": "Kinetics of the normal folate enterohepatic cycle. Detailed studies were undertaken to better define the role of the liver and the folate enterohepatic cycle in folate homeostasis. Three isotopes of folate were employed in a rat model to study several parameters: (a) intestinal transport; (b) variation in hepatic uptake after different routes of administration; (c) hepatic reduction, methylation, and polyglutamate formation; (d) biliary excretion; (e) transport of folate to tissue and its return to liver for re-entry into the enterohepatic cycle. Folate absorption was not affected by the type of folate administered, but subsequent liver accumulation was greater when PteGlu(1) was given rather than CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1). After liver uptake, CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1) is rapidly and quantitatively excreted into bile, whereas nonmethylated folates are either methylated and transported into bile or incorporated into a hepatic polyglutamate pool. Bile folate is then reabsorbed for distribution to both tissue and liver, completing the enterohepatic cycle. The importance of this cycle was demonstrated by long-term bile drainage and by transport studies with two isotopes of CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1). With bile drainage, serum folate levels fell to 30-40% of normal within 6 h, a much more dramatic drop than that seen with folate-free diets alone. Studies with labeled CH(3)H(4)PteGlu(1) demonstrated that about one-third was taken up by tissue, demethylated, and returned to liver for remethylation and recirculation through the bile and gut. This establishes the enterohepatic cycle as a major factor in folate homeostasis and, for the first time, demonstrates a transport pathway between tissue and liver for nonmethylated folate.", "PMID": 447863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8297", "title": "Serum cystyl aminopeptidase activity in the 36th week of pregnancy.", "content": "Serum cystyl aminopeptidase (CAS) activity was estimated at 36 weeks' gestation in 209 normotensive pregnancies. The highest activity was found in 31 women who had spontaneous deliveries before 38 weeks' gestation and the lowest in 76 women who were induced after term. The enzyme levels in 117 women who developed hypertension of pregnancy were higher than for normotensives; the highest levels were found in 32 women with pre-eclampsia. A correlation was found between serum CAS activity at 36 weeks' gestation and the birth weight of babies of women who went into spontaneous labour at term (277 to 283 days' gestation).", "contents": "Serum cystyl aminopeptidase activity in the 36th week of pregnancy. Serum cystyl aminopeptidase (CAS) activity was estimated at 36 weeks' gestation in 209 normotensive pregnancies. The highest activity was found in 31 women who had spontaneous deliveries before 38 weeks' gestation and the lowest in 76 women who were induced after term. The enzyme levels in 117 women who developed hypertension of pregnancy were higher than for normotensives; the highest levels were found in 32 women with pre-eclampsia. A correlation was found between serum CAS activity at 36 weeks' gestation and the birth weight of babies of women who went into spontaneous labour at term (277 to 283 days' gestation).", "PMID": 447865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8298", "title": "In vitro of adenosine on lymphocytes and erythrocytes from horses with combined immunodeficiency.", "content": "The effect of adenosine on the mitogenic response of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and on the nucleotide pools of erythrocytes from normal horses, horses heterozygous for the combined immunodeficiency (CID) trait (carriers), and foals with CID was studied. When PBL from normal, carrier, and CID horses were stimulated by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A, or pokeweed mitogen, [3H]thymidine uptake was inhibited by adenosine (0.1 microM) to 1.0 mM) in a dose-dependent manner. Adenosine (100 microM) mediated inhibition of [3H]thymidine uptake was prevented in both normal and carrier horse PBL by incubation with uridine. Uridine had no sparing effect on PBL from horses with CID. Differences were detected between human and horse PBL in response to adenosine and erythro-9(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine (EHNA), a competitive inhibitor of adenosine deaminase. In the first assay, mitogen-stimulated PBL from horses were more sensitive to adenosine. In the second assay, adenosine was added to PBL cultures at various times after PHA addition. Adenosine inhibited mitogenesis in horse PBL if added within the first 24 h. In human PBL cultures, adenosine inhibited mitogenesis only if added within the first 4 h. The third assay measured capacity of PHA-stimulated human and horse lymphocytes to escape inhibition by adenosine or EHNA. At the end of a 72-h culture period, horse PBL were still inhibited of mitogenesis in both human and horse PBL. With prolonged incubation (72 h), synergistic inhibition was detected only in horse PB. With high-pressure liquid chromatography, nucleotide levels in erythrocytes of normal, carrier, and CID horses were found to be similar. Incubation with adenosine produced a 1.5- to 2-fold increase in total adenine nucleotide pools in erythrocytes from all horses. However, these increases were accompanied by alterations in the relative amounts of the nucleotide components. This was seen as a significant decrease in the ATP:(AMP plus ADP plus ATP) ratio and energy charge in erythrocytes from normal horses. In contrast, the ATP:(AMP plus ADP plus ATP) ratio decreased only slightly in erythrocytes from CID horses, whereas no change in the energy charge was detected. The data from these studies indicate a difference in adenosine metabolism exists between human and horse lymphoyctes, and an abnormality may exist in purine metabolism or in an interconnecting pathway in horses with CID.", "contents": "In vitro of adenosine on lymphocytes and erythrocytes from horses with combined immunodeficiency. The effect of adenosine on the mitogenic response of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and on the nucleotide pools of erythrocytes from normal horses, horses heterozygous for the combined immunodeficiency (CID) trait (carriers), and foals with CID was studied. When PBL from normal, carrier, and CID horses were stimulated by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A, or pokeweed mitogen, [3H]thymidine uptake was inhibited by adenosine (0.1 microM) to 1.0 mM) in a dose-dependent manner. Adenosine (100 microM) mediated inhibition of [3H]thymidine uptake was prevented in both normal and carrier horse PBL by incubation with uridine. Uridine had no sparing effect on PBL from horses with CID. Differences were detected between human and horse PBL in response to adenosine and erythro-9(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine (EHNA), a competitive inhibitor of adenosine deaminase. In the first assay, mitogen-stimulated PBL from horses were more sensitive to adenosine. In the second assay, adenosine was added to PBL cultures at various times after PHA addition. Adenosine inhibited mitogenesis in horse PBL if added within the first 24 h. In human PBL cultures, adenosine inhibited mitogenesis only if added within the first 4 h. The third assay measured capacity of PHA-stimulated human and horse lymphocytes to escape inhibition by adenosine or EHNA. At the end of a 72-h culture period, horse PBL were still inhibited of mitogenesis in both human and horse PBL. With prolonged incubation (72 h), synergistic inhibition was detected only in horse PB. With high-pressure liquid chromatography, nucleotide levels in erythrocytes of normal, carrier, and CID horses were found to be similar. Incubation with adenosine produced a 1.5- to 2-fold increase in total adenine nucleotide pools in erythrocytes from all horses. However, these increases were accompanied by alterations in the relative amounts of the nucleotide components. This was seen as a significant decrease in the ATP:(AMP plus ADP plus ATP) ratio and energy charge in erythrocytes from normal horses. In contrast, the ATP:(AMP plus ADP plus ATP) ratio decreased only slightly in erythrocytes from CID horses, whereas no change in the energy charge was detected. The data from these studies indicate a difference in adenosine metabolism exists between human and horse lymphoyctes, and an abnormality may exist in purine metabolism or in an interconnecting pathway in horses with CID.", "PMID": 447864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8299", "title": "Total and free thyroid hormone concentrations after elective surgery.", "content": "Changes in thyroid hormone concentration and distribution and plasma cortisol levels have been followed in 11 patients undergoing elective cholocystectomy. A significant rise in total and free thyroxine (T4) and fall in total and free triiodothyronine (T3) were noted after surgery. Reverse T3 concentrations rose substantially, suggesting that peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 is diminished and that there is preferential formation of reverse T3. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone concentrations did not change. There was no direct correlation between the change in cortisol and the change in thyroid hormone or reverse T3 concentrations.", "contents": "Total and free thyroid hormone concentrations after elective surgery. Changes in thyroid hormone concentration and distribution and plasma cortisol levels have been followed in 11 patients undergoing elective cholocystectomy. A significant rise in total and free thyroxine (T4) and fall in total and free triiodothyronine (T3) were noted after surgery. Reverse T3 concentrations rose substantially, suggesting that peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 is diminished and that there is preferential formation of reverse T3. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone concentrations did not change. There was no direct correlation between the change in cortisol and the change in thyroid hormone or reverse T3 concentrations.", "PMID": 447866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8300", "title": "Studies of plasma zinc, copper, caeruloplasmin, and growth hormone: with special reference to carcinoma of the bronchus.", "content": "The levels of plasma zinc, copper, caeruloplasmin, and growth hormone were determined in a group of normal people and in four groups of patients who were suffering from carcinoma of the bronchus, other forms of malignancy, chest illnesses, and diseases other than chest illness or malignancy. The plasma zinc was higher, and the plasma copper lower, in people without malignancy below the age of 30 years than they were in other age groups.It was confirmed that about 66% of patients with carcinoma of the bronchus had plasma zinc levels less than 11.5 mumol/l but low levels were also found in 23% of other cases of malignancy and in 9% of the other patients. In carcinoma of the bronchus the low plasma zinc was found to be associated with epidermoid and anaplastic tumours and was to some extent related to the duration of the disease. In carcinoma of the bronchus the plasma copper was found to be higher than in all other groups, and values higher than 26.5 mumol/l were considered to support a diagnosis of carcinoma of the bronchus. There was, however, no relationship between the increase in the plasma copper and the decrease in the plasma zinc.Raised caeruloplasmin levels above 420 mg/l were found in 65% of cases of carcinoma of the bronchus, and these high levels were usually associated with raised plasma copper. Growth hormone was normal in all groups except six patients with carcinoma of the bronchus with secondary carcinoma of the liver, in whom it was raised. Surgical operations lowered plasma zinc and raised growth hormone but did not affect plasma copper.A plasma zinc below 11.5 mumol/l is helpful in the diagnosis of carcinoma of the bronchus, but by itself it is not sufficiently specific to be considered diagnostic or to form a reliable screening test. A raised plasma copper and a raised plasma caeruloplasmin were useful supportive findings.", "contents": "Studies of plasma zinc, copper, caeruloplasmin, and growth hormone: with special reference to carcinoma of the bronchus. The levels of plasma zinc, copper, caeruloplasmin, and growth hormone were determined in a group of normal people and in four groups of patients who were suffering from carcinoma of the bronchus, other forms of malignancy, chest illnesses, and diseases other than chest illness or malignancy. The plasma zinc was higher, and the plasma copper lower, in people without malignancy below the age of 30 years than they were in other age groups.It was confirmed that about 66% of patients with carcinoma of the bronchus had plasma zinc levels less than 11.5 mumol/l but low levels were also found in 23% of other cases of malignancy and in 9% of the other patients. In carcinoma of the bronchus the low plasma zinc was found to be associated with epidermoid and anaplastic tumours and was to some extent related to the duration of the disease. In carcinoma of the bronchus the plasma copper was found to be higher than in all other groups, and values higher than 26.5 mumol/l were considered to support a diagnosis of carcinoma of the bronchus. There was, however, no relationship between the increase in the plasma copper and the decrease in the plasma zinc.Raised caeruloplasmin levels above 420 mg/l were found in 65% of cases of carcinoma of the bronchus, and these high levels were usually associated with raised plasma copper. Growth hormone was normal in all groups except six patients with carcinoma of the bronchus with secondary carcinoma of the liver, in whom it was raised. Surgical operations lowered plasma zinc and raised growth hormone but did not affect plasma copper.A plasma zinc below 11.5 mumol/l is helpful in the diagnosis of carcinoma of the bronchus, but by itself it is not sufficiently specific to be considered diagnostic or to form a reliable screening test. A raised plasma copper and a raised plasma caeruloplasmin were useful supportive findings.", "PMID": 447867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8301", "title": "Progression of hepatitis non-A, non-B to chronic active hepatitis: a histological follow-up of two cases.", "content": "Two patients with histologically verified acute hepatitis but without any serological evidence of hepatitis A or hepatitis B infection are described. In both cases the acute attack of hepatitis type 'non-A, non-B' progressed histologically and clinically to chronic active hepatitis within a two-year period. One of the patients died from liver insufficiency a year later, while the other is still alive after eight years of follow-up. The two cases illustrate that a progression of acute hepatitis 'non-A, non-B' to chronic liver disease may occur just as has been reported for hepatitis B infection.", "contents": "Progression of hepatitis non-A, non-B to chronic active hepatitis: a histological follow-up of two cases. Two patients with histologically verified acute hepatitis but without any serological evidence of hepatitis A or hepatitis B infection are described. In both cases the acute attack of hepatitis type 'non-A, non-B' progressed histologically and clinically to chronic active hepatitis within a two-year period. One of the patients died from liver insufficiency a year later, while the other is still alive after eight years of follow-up. The two cases illustrate that a progression of acute hepatitis 'non-A, non-B' to chronic liver disease may occur just as has been reported for hepatitis B infection.", "PMID": 447868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8302", "title": "Haematological features of angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy with dysproteinaemia.", "content": "A study of seven patients with AILD has confirmed previously reported cytological and immunological changes in the peripheral blood. In themselves these changes should not be considered as specific. Histological examination of the bone marrow may show more characteristic lesions which involve haemopoietic, lymphoid, and stromal cells. Three patients had bone marrow features similar to myelofibrosis, which are considered to be diagnostic of AILD.", "contents": "Haematological features of angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy with dysproteinaemia. A study of seven patients with AILD has confirmed previously reported cytological and immunological changes in the peripheral blood. In themselves these changes should not be considered as specific. Histological examination of the bone marrow may show more characteristic lesions which involve haemopoietic, lymphoid, and stromal cells. Three patients had bone marrow features similar to myelofibrosis, which are considered to be diagnostic of AILD.", "PMID": 447869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8303", "title": "Rapid cytological diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of the skin.", "content": "Cytological diagnosis in a series of 153 skin lesions is presented. The diagnosis in each case has been compared with the clinical assessment and, where available, the biopsy result (85 lesions). Of 131 basal cell carcinomas, a cytological diagnosis was possible in 124 while biopsyl failed to identify two of the 73 lesions studied. A correct cytological diagnosis was made in five squamous cell carcinomas and in one malignant melanoma. Basal cell papillomas and solar keratoses were not accurately identified. We thus conclude that with this very simple, rapid, and inexpensive method a clinical diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma is reliably confirmed with advantages for both the clinic and the laboratory.", "contents": "Rapid cytological diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of the skin. Cytological diagnosis in a series of 153 skin lesions is presented. The diagnosis in each case has been compared with the clinical assessment and, where available, the biopsy result (85 lesions). Of 131 basal cell carcinomas, a cytological diagnosis was possible in 124 while biopsyl failed to identify two of the 73 lesions studied. A correct cytological diagnosis was made in five squamous cell carcinomas and in one malignant melanoma. Basal cell papillomas and solar keratoses were not accurately identified. We thus conclude that with this very simple, rapid, and inexpensive method a clinical diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma is reliably confirmed with advantages for both the clinic and the laboratory.", "PMID": 447870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8304", "title": "An immunohistochemical study of the significance of HCG secretion by large bowel adenocarcinomata.", "content": "A series of five benign and 60 malignant colonorectal neoplasms has been examined immunohistochemically for the presence of HCG. This hormone was not demonstrated in any of the benign tumours but was present in 43% of the malignant neoplasms. The incidence of HCG secretion was unrelated to the sex of the patient but tended to be decreased in patients of advanced age. The HCG-containing tumours, which were predominantly from the left side of the large intestine, had all penetrated the full thickness of the bowel wall while a significant proportion of those tumours lacking HCG were still confined to the bowel wall. Despite the greater degree of local aggressiveness shown by the HCG-secreting tumours there was no correlation between HCG production and the presence of local metastases but, as the presence of HCG is associated with local invasion, it is suggested that preoperative immunohistochemical studies of HCG in biopsies of large bowel neoplasms may be of value in the planning of surgical procedures.", "contents": "An immunohistochemical study of the significance of HCG secretion by large bowel adenocarcinomata. A series of five benign and 60 malignant colonorectal neoplasms has been examined immunohistochemically for the presence of HCG. This hormone was not demonstrated in any of the benign tumours but was present in 43% of the malignant neoplasms. The incidence of HCG secretion was unrelated to the sex of the patient but tended to be decreased in patients of advanced age. The HCG-containing tumours, which were predominantly from the left side of the large intestine, had all penetrated the full thickness of the bowel wall while a significant proportion of those tumours lacking HCG were still confined to the bowel wall. Despite the greater degree of local aggressiveness shown by the HCG-secreting tumours there was no correlation between HCG production and the presence of local metastases but, as the presence of HCG is associated with local invasion, it is suggested that preoperative immunohistochemical studies of HCG in biopsies of large bowel neoplasms may be of value in the planning of surgical procedures.", "PMID": 447871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8305", "title": "Limits to progressive reduction of resident skin bacteria by disinfection.", "content": "Antiseptic preparations used repeatedly to disinfect the skin caused a reduction in yield of resident flora to a low equilibrium level beyond which further reduction did not occur. This equilibrium varied with the antiseptic preparation used. In a comparison of three preparations, the lowest equilibrium level was obtained with 95% ethyl alcohol. The further reduction in yield of skin bacteria on using alcohol after repeated disinfection with an antiseptic detergent preparation ('two-phase' disinfection) was not paralleled by a further reduction when the preparations used in the two phases were reversed, the antiseptic detergent being used after repeated disinfection with ethyl alcohol. 'Two-phase' disinfection was therefore seen to be due to further reduction in skin bacteria from the low equilibrium obtained with the antiseptic detergent to the lower level obtainable by alcohol disinfection. When repeated disinfection to equilibrium with alcohol was followed by a 'second-phase' handwash with a non-antiseptic detergent and water, there was a large increase in the yield of skin bacteria. This finding supports the view that a low equilibrium level occurs when the reduction in density of accessible bacteria through disinfection is balanced by the emergence of bacteria drawn from deeper layers of the skin.", "contents": "Limits to progressive reduction of resident skin bacteria by disinfection. Antiseptic preparations used repeatedly to disinfect the skin caused a reduction in yield of resident flora to a low equilibrium level beyond which further reduction did not occur. This equilibrium varied with the antiseptic preparation used. In a comparison of three preparations, the lowest equilibrium level was obtained with 95% ethyl alcohol. The further reduction in yield of skin bacteria on using alcohol after repeated disinfection with an antiseptic detergent preparation ('two-phase' disinfection) was not paralleled by a further reduction when the preparations used in the two phases were reversed, the antiseptic detergent being used after repeated disinfection with ethyl alcohol. 'Two-phase' disinfection was therefore seen to be due to further reduction in skin bacteria from the low equilibrium obtained with the antiseptic detergent to the lower level obtainable by alcohol disinfection. When repeated disinfection to equilibrium with alcohol was followed by a 'second-phase' handwash with a non-antiseptic detergent and water, there was a large increase in the yield of skin bacteria. This finding supports the view that a low equilibrium level occurs when the reduction in density of accessible bacteria through disinfection is balanced by the emergence of bacteria drawn from deeper layers of the skin.", "PMID": 447872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8306", "title": "Classification of staphylococci isolated from ocular tissues.", "content": "A total of 145 strains of Gram-positive, catalase-positive, coagulase-positive, and coagulase-negative cocci isolated from the human eye were classified by the system of Baird-Parker (1966). These belonged to subgroups I, II, IV, and V and showed a wide range of antibiotic sensitivities unrelated to subgroup and category of lesion. The role of coagulase-negative staphylococci in producing postoperative ocular infections has been especially emphasised.", "contents": "Classification of staphylococci isolated from ocular tissues. A total of 145 strains of Gram-positive, catalase-positive, coagulase-positive, and coagulase-negative cocci isolated from the human eye were classified by the system of Baird-Parker (1966). These belonged to subgroups I, II, IV, and V and showed a wide range of antibiotic sensitivities unrelated to subgroup and category of lesion. The role of coagulase-negative staphylococci in producing postoperative ocular infections has been especially emphasised.", "PMID": 447873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8307", "title": "Abnormal retino-geniculate and geniculo-cortical pathways in several genetically distinct color phases of the mink (Mustela vison).", "content": "Several genetically distinct color phases of mink, which all show an abnormal reduction of pigment in the retinal pigment epithelium and which also show abnormalities of the retinofugal pathways, have been studied. Autoradiographic methods have been used to demonstrate the retino-geniculate pathways, and retrograde degeneration or the retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase has been used for the geniculo-cortical pathways. The retino-geniculate abnormality is mild in some of the color phases and extremely severe in others, but within any one color phase the variability is relatively low. Although the severity of the abnormality varies between color phases, a rather specific pattern of abnormal geniculate innervation is recognizable for mink in general and this is distinct from that found in Siamese cats. In the abnormal mink the size of geniculate lamina A1 is reduced and there is an abnormal crossed input going to the intermediate sectors of this reduced layer. Layer C1 also receives an abnormal crossed input, but this is more variable than that going to A1 and there appears to be little correspondence, retinotopically, between the normal inputs to layers A1 and C1. In some of the abnormal mink there are interruptions within the cytoarchitectionically definable layer A1, and opposite these gaps reduplications of layer A are commonly seen, as though there is an intrinsic geniculate mechanism for generating the characteristic multilaminar geniculate structure. However, there are also numerous examples of fusions between layers receiving afferents from the same eye, and these demonstrate that the development of geniculate lamination must also be under the influence of the retinal inputs. The geniculo-cortical pathway shows a normal topography in most of the mink. Abnormal geniculo-cortical projections, comparable to the \"Boston\" pattern of Siamese cats are extremely rare, and their occurrence could not be correlated with the severity of the retino-geniculate abnormality or with the laminar pattern in the lateral geniculate nucleus. We suggest that the development of one or the other pattern of geniculo-cortical projection may depend upon the relative timing of the two mechanisms that produce the geniculate lamination.", "contents": "Abnormal retino-geniculate and geniculo-cortical pathways in several genetically distinct color phases of the mink (Mustela vison). Several genetically distinct color phases of mink, which all show an abnormal reduction of pigment in the retinal pigment epithelium and which also show abnormalities of the retinofugal pathways, have been studied. Autoradiographic methods have been used to demonstrate the retino-geniculate pathways, and retrograde degeneration or the retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase has been used for the geniculo-cortical pathways. The retino-geniculate abnormality is mild in some of the color phases and extremely severe in others, but within any one color phase the variability is relatively low. Although the severity of the abnormality varies between color phases, a rather specific pattern of abnormal geniculate innervation is recognizable for mink in general and this is distinct from that found in Siamese cats. In the abnormal mink the size of geniculate lamina A1 is reduced and there is an abnormal crossed input going to the intermediate sectors of this reduced layer. Layer C1 also receives an abnormal crossed input, but this is more variable than that going to A1 and there appears to be little correspondence, retinotopically, between the normal inputs to layers A1 and C1. In some of the abnormal mink there are interruptions within the cytoarchitectionically definable layer A1, and opposite these gaps reduplications of layer A are commonly seen, as though there is an intrinsic geniculate mechanism for generating the characteristic multilaminar geniculate structure. However, there are also numerous examples of fusions between layers receiving afferents from the same eye, and these demonstrate that the development of geniculate lamination must also be under the influence of the retinal inputs. The geniculo-cortical pathway shows a normal topography in most of the mink. Abnormal geniculo-cortical projections, comparable to the \"Boston\" pattern of Siamese cats are extremely rare, and their occurrence could not be correlated with the severity of the retino-geniculate abnormality or with the laminar pattern in the lateral geniculate nucleus. We suggest that the development of one or the other pattern of geniculo-cortical projection may depend upon the relative timing of the two mechanisms that produce the geniculate lamination.", "PMID": 447875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8308", "title": "Retinotopic organization of areas 18 and 19 in the cat.", "content": "The location and retinotopic organization of areas 18 and 19 in cat cortex were determined using electrophysiological mapping techniques. These two areas each contain a single representation of the visual hemifield and each has a distinctive cytoarchitecture. The visual hemifield representations in these two areas are nearly mirror images of each other. Compared to area 17, areas 18 and 19 have less cortical surface area, have a lower cortical magnification factor, contain less of the visual field and contain second order instead of first order transformations of the visual hemifield. An unusual asymmetry was found between the representations of the upper and lower visual quadrants not seen before in maps of other areas of cat or other species. A considerable amount of variability in the retinotopic organization of these two areas was found among cats.", "contents": "Retinotopic organization of areas 18 and 19 in the cat. The location and retinotopic organization of areas 18 and 19 in cat cortex were determined using electrophysiological mapping techniques. These two areas each contain a single representation of the visual hemifield and each has a distinctive cytoarchitecture. The visual hemifield representations in these two areas are nearly mirror images of each other. Compared to area 17, areas 18 and 19 have less cortical surface area, have a lower cortical magnification factor, contain less of the visual field and contain second order instead of first order transformations of the visual hemifield. An unusual asymmetry was found between the representations of the upper and lower visual quadrants not seen before in maps of other areas of cat or other species. A considerable amount of variability in the retinotopic organization of these two areas was found among cats.", "PMID": 447876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8309", "title": "Thalamic relay nuclei for cerebellar and certain related fiber systems in the cat.", "content": "Anterograde labeling techniques were used to define the terminal distributions in the thalamus of afferents arising in the deep cerebellar nuclei, entopeduncular nucleus and substantia nigra. Anterograde and retrograde labeling methods were then used to determine the extent of the cortical projections of the cerebellar relay nuclei. The cerebellar projection to the contralateral ventral nuclei of the thalamus terminates in a zone which is separate from that receiving pallido- and nigrothalamic fibers. None of the zones of termination of these fiber systems corresponds to commonly recognized cytoarchitectonic divisions. Instead, they include parts of the ventroanterior (VA), ventrolateral (VL) and principal ventromedial (VMp) nuclei. Some cells within the zone of termination of cerebellar afferents project to parietal cortex (areas 5 and 7). A further, distinct group of cells in this zone projects to motor cortex (area 4). But projections to area 4 also arise from small groups of cells: (a) in the zone receiving nigro- and pallidothalamic fibers; (b) in the part of VL, distinct from the cerebellar terminal zone, in which spinothalamic fibers terminate. Cerebellar, nigral, and entopeduncular fibers also terminate in the intralaminar nuclei. These projections are far greater in extent than those arising in the spinal cord. Some parts of the intralaminar nuclei are dominated by a particular afferent system, while others show substantial overlap of the terminal zone of several afferent systems.", "contents": "Thalamic relay nuclei for cerebellar and certain related fiber systems in the cat. Anterograde labeling techniques were used to define the terminal distributions in the thalamus of afferents arising in the deep cerebellar nuclei, entopeduncular nucleus and substantia nigra. Anterograde and retrograde labeling methods were then used to determine the extent of the cortical projections of the cerebellar relay nuclei. The cerebellar projection to the contralateral ventral nuclei of the thalamus terminates in a zone which is separate from that receiving pallido- and nigrothalamic fibers. None of the zones of termination of these fiber systems corresponds to commonly recognized cytoarchitectonic divisions. Instead, they include parts of the ventroanterior (VA), ventrolateral (VL) and principal ventromedial (VMp) nuclei. Some cells within the zone of termination of cerebellar afferents project to parietal cortex (areas 5 and 7). A further, distinct group of cells in this zone projects to motor cortex (area 4). But projections to area 4 also arise from small groups of cells: (a) in the zone receiving nigro- and pallidothalamic fibers; (b) in the part of VL, distinct from the cerebellar terminal zone, in which spinothalamic fibers terminate. Cerebellar, nigral, and entopeduncular fibers also terminate in the intralaminar nuclei. These projections are far greater in extent than those arising in the spinal cord. Some parts of the intralaminar nuclei are dominated by a particular afferent system, while others show substantial overlap of the terminal zone of several afferent systems.", "PMID": 447877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8310", "title": "Functional organization of rat olfactory bulb analysed by the 2-deoxyglucose method.", "content": "The spatial patterns of activity elicited in the rat olfactory bulb under different odor conditions have been analysed using the 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) technique. Rats were injected with 14C-2DG, exposed to controlled environments of amyl acetate, camphor, cage air, dimethyl disulfide, and pure air and autoradiographs prepared by the method of Sokoloff. Amyl acetate was associated with regions of glomerular layer densities in the anterolateral and mid- to posteromedial parts of the bulbar circumference, as previously reported. The extents of the densities increased with increasing concentration. Camphor odor was associated with regions of increased density in the anterodorsal and mid- to posteromedial parts of the bulb. Exposure to cage air produced scattered densities in the posteromedial and posterolateral bulb. Exposure to dimethyl disulfide gave variable results. Pure air was associated with a minimal number of small dense foci. The results with amyl acetate, camphor and cage air suggest that patterns for different odors are distinguishably different but overlapping. The regions of activity are greatest in extent and density with the highest odor concentrations. These define the regions within which more restricted and isolated foci appear at lower concentrations. The results thus provide evidence for the specific role of spatial factors in the neural processing of odor quality and odor concentration.", "contents": "Functional organization of rat olfactory bulb analysed by the 2-deoxyglucose method. The spatial patterns of activity elicited in the rat olfactory bulb under different odor conditions have been analysed using the 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) technique. Rats were injected with 14C-2DG, exposed to controlled environments of amyl acetate, camphor, cage air, dimethyl disulfide, and pure air and autoradiographs prepared by the method of Sokoloff. Amyl acetate was associated with regions of glomerular layer densities in the anterolateral and mid- to posteromedial parts of the bulbar circumference, as previously reported. The extents of the densities increased with increasing concentration. Camphor odor was associated with regions of increased density in the anterodorsal and mid- to posteromedial parts of the bulb. Exposure to cage air produced scattered densities in the posteromedial and posterolateral bulb. Exposure to dimethyl disulfide gave variable results. Pure air was associated with a minimal number of small dense foci. The results with amyl acetate, camphor and cage air suggest that patterns for different odors are distinguishably different but overlapping. The regions of activity are greatest in extent and density with the highest odor concentrations. These define the regions within which more restricted and isolated foci appear at lower concentrations. The results thus provide evidence for the specific role of spatial factors in the neural processing of odor quality and odor concentration.", "PMID": 447878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8311", "title": "An HRP and autoradiographic study of the projection from the cerebellar cortex to the nucleus interpositus anterior and nucleus interpositus posterior of the cat.", "content": "The recently developed anatomical techniques of retrograde transport of the enzyme horseradish peroxidase (HRP), anterograde transport of tritiated amino acid, and intracellular injections of HRP were used to study the organization of the corticonuclear projection to the nucleus interpositus anterior (NIA) and the nucleus interpositus posterior (NIP) of the cat. Injections of HRP into the NIA and the NIP revealed that the major areas of the cortex which provided afferents to these two nuclei were the intermediate cortex of the anterior lobe (IAL) and the paramedian lobule (PML). There were, however, significant differences in the distribution of Purkinje (Pk) cells which projected to each nucleus. The NIA received afferents from all areas of the IAL while the NIP projection area was restricted to a band located at the medi-almost aspect of the lobe. All areas of the PML, in particular the intermediate folia, projected to the NIP, while the Pk cells which sent axons to the NIA were restricted to the rostral and caudal folia of this lobule. The projection from each area was somatotopically organized. The axons of intracellularly stained Pk cells were followed to their termination in the NIA and NIP confirming the results obtained with the two extracellular techniques. An attempt was made to examine the organization of the corticonuclear projection at the single cell level in the PML. Pk cells located in the same sagittal plane appeared to terminate in the same area of the same nucleus while Pk cells located not more than 500 micrometers medial or lateral to each other terminated in different nuclei. Basically, the organization of the corticonuclear projection from the IAL is longitudinally organized while the PML has a much more complex arrangement in which the Pk cells projecting to the NIA and NIP are interspersed.", "contents": "An HRP and autoradiographic study of the projection from the cerebellar cortex to the nucleus interpositus anterior and nucleus interpositus posterior of the cat. The recently developed anatomical techniques of retrograde transport of the enzyme horseradish peroxidase (HRP), anterograde transport of tritiated amino acid, and intracellular injections of HRP were used to study the organization of the corticonuclear projection to the nucleus interpositus anterior (NIA) and the nucleus interpositus posterior (NIP) of the cat. Injections of HRP into the NIA and the NIP revealed that the major areas of the cortex which provided afferents to these two nuclei were the intermediate cortex of the anterior lobe (IAL) and the paramedian lobule (PML). There were, however, significant differences in the distribution of Purkinje (Pk) cells which projected to each nucleus. The NIA received afferents from all areas of the IAL while the NIP projection area was restricted to a band located at the medi-almost aspect of the lobe. All areas of the PML, in particular the intermediate folia, projected to the NIP, while the Pk cells which sent axons to the NIA were restricted to the rostral and caudal folia of this lobule. The projection from each area was somatotopically organized. The axons of intracellularly stained Pk cells were followed to their termination in the NIA and NIP confirming the results obtained with the two extracellular techniques. An attempt was made to examine the organization of the corticonuclear projection at the single cell level in the PML. Pk cells located in the same sagittal plane appeared to terminate in the same area of the same nucleus while Pk cells located not more than 500 micrometers medial or lateral to each other terminated in different nuclei. Basically, the organization of the corticonuclear projection from the IAL is longitudinally organized while the PML has a much more complex arrangement in which the Pk cells projecting to the NIA and NIP are interspersed.", "PMID": 447879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8312", "title": "Reexamination of the dorsal root projection to the spinal dorsal horn including observations on the differential termination of coarse and fine fibers.", "content": "Primary afferent fibers in the lumbar, sacral, and caudal spinal segments of several mammals (rat, cat, monkey) were stained by applying horseradish peroxidase to the proximal part of cut dorsal rootlets and reacting the tissue histochemically after several hours of survival. The stained fibers' pattern of termination in the dorsal horn was similar in all three species, with many bouton-like enlargements in the ipsilateral marginal zone, substantia gelatinosa, and nucleus proprius, as well as a few projections at each level to the dorsal commissure and contralaterally to the ventral border of the nucleus proprius. Partial lesions of dorsal rootlets in monkey revealed that the thin fibers comprising the lateral division end principally in the marginal zone and substantial gelatinosa, while the thick fibers of the medial division terminate in the nucleus proprius and deeper regions, contributing little to the substantia gelatinosa and marginal zone. On the basis of the termination patterns observed for whole and partly sectioned rootlets, the superficial dorsal horn can be divided into at least four regions. (1) The marginal zone (lamina I of cat) appears to receive terminations from intermediate (smaller myelinated) fibers; (2) the outer substantia gelatinosa (outer lamina II) receives many terminations from the very finest afferent fibers; (3) the inner substantia gelatinosa (inner lamina II) receives endings from some of the finest fibers and also from intermediate (smaller myelinated) fibers; and (4) the superficial part of the nucleus proprius (lamina III) receives endings from intermediate and large diameter dorsal root fibers.", "contents": "Reexamination of the dorsal root projection to the spinal dorsal horn including observations on the differential termination of coarse and fine fibers. Primary afferent fibers in the lumbar, sacral, and caudal spinal segments of several mammals (rat, cat, monkey) were stained by applying horseradish peroxidase to the proximal part of cut dorsal rootlets and reacting the tissue histochemically after several hours of survival. The stained fibers' pattern of termination in the dorsal horn was similar in all three species, with many bouton-like enlargements in the ipsilateral marginal zone, substantia gelatinosa, and nucleus proprius, as well as a few projections at each level to the dorsal commissure and contralaterally to the ventral border of the nucleus proprius. Partial lesions of dorsal rootlets in monkey revealed that the thin fibers comprising the lateral division end principally in the marginal zone and substantial gelatinosa, while the thick fibers of the medial division terminate in the nucleus proprius and deeper regions, contributing little to the substantia gelatinosa and marginal zone. On the basis of the termination patterns observed for whole and partly sectioned rootlets, the superficial dorsal horn can be divided into at least four regions. (1) The marginal zone (lamina I of cat) appears to receive terminations from intermediate (smaller myelinated) fibers; (2) the outer substantia gelatinosa (outer lamina II) receives many terminations from the very finest afferent fibers; (3) the inner substantia gelatinosa (inner lamina II) receives endings from some of the finest fibers and also from intermediate (smaller myelinated) fibers; and (4) the superficial part of the nucleus proprius (lamina III) receives endings from intermediate and large diameter dorsal root fibers.", "PMID": 447880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8313", "title": "Morphological features of functionally defined neurons in the marginal zone and substantia gelatinosa of the spinal dorsal horn.", "content": "Functional characteristics of spinal neurons located in the marginal zone (lamina I) and substantia gelatinosa (lamina II) were compared to their structural features by intrcellularly staining the source of unitary potentials with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in unanesthetized, spinal cats. The responses of postsynaptic units to graded electrical volleys in intact dorsal roots and to physiological stimulation revealed that the peripheral excitatory input to neurons of the region is dominated by slowly conducting afferent fibers; often, the input to a given element is largely from a particular class of receptors. One type commonly seen received its principal peripheral excitation from low threshold mechanoreceptors with A delta or C afferent fibers. Mechanoreceptive elements often exhibited a marked, prolonged habituation and many were not excited by afferent volleys. Other units were predominantly excited by nociceptors with myelinated or unmyelinated fibers, or by thermoreceptors with unmyelinated fibers. A few units (principally the thermoreceptive) showed substantial ongoing activity which was modulated by sensory stimulation, but most had little or none. The HRP staining revealed neuronal morphology in fine detail. No relationship between neuronal configuration and physiological response was discerned. Soma location was not always linked to afferent input, although the cell bodies of nociceptive and thermoreceptive neurons tended to be in lamina I or outer lamina II (SGo) while those of the innocuous mechanoreceptive meurons tended to be in inner lamina II (SGi). The locus of a neuron's major dendritic arborization was more closely related to the source(s) of peripheral excitation. Cells excited by nociceptors with myelinated fibers had major dendritic projections in the marginal zone. Cells excited by nociceptors or thermoreceptors with unmyelinated fibers had important dendritic branching in the SGo. Innocuous mechanoreceptive neurons had primary dendritic arborization in the SGi when the input derived from unmyelinated fibers, or in the SGi and extending into the outer nucleus proprius (lamina III) when the afferent drive came from A delta fibers. These findings support the concept that laminae I and II constitute a major termination region for thin primary afferent fibers, myelinated fibers from nociceptors ending principally in lamina I and unmyelinated fibers from nociceptors, thermoreceptors, and mechanoreceptros terminating predominantly in lamina II. Substantial integrative and distributive functions can be expected of such an afferent termination zone.", "contents": "Morphological features of functionally defined neurons in the marginal zone and substantia gelatinosa of the spinal dorsal horn. Functional characteristics of spinal neurons located in the marginal zone (lamina I) and substantia gelatinosa (lamina II) were compared to their structural features by intrcellularly staining the source of unitary potentials with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in unanesthetized, spinal cats. The responses of postsynaptic units to graded electrical volleys in intact dorsal roots and to physiological stimulation revealed that the peripheral excitatory input to neurons of the region is dominated by slowly conducting afferent fibers; often, the input to a given element is largely from a particular class of receptors. One type commonly seen received its principal peripheral excitation from low threshold mechanoreceptors with A delta or C afferent fibers. Mechanoreceptive elements often exhibited a marked, prolonged habituation and many were not excited by afferent volleys. Other units were predominantly excited by nociceptors with myelinated or unmyelinated fibers, or by thermoreceptors with unmyelinated fibers. A few units (principally the thermoreceptive) showed substantial ongoing activity which was modulated by sensory stimulation, but most had little or none. The HRP staining revealed neuronal morphology in fine detail. No relationship between neuronal configuration and physiological response was discerned. Soma location was not always linked to afferent input, although the cell bodies of nociceptive and thermoreceptive neurons tended to be in lamina I or outer lamina II (SGo) while those of the innocuous mechanoreceptive meurons tended to be in inner lamina II (SGi). The locus of a neuron's major dendritic arborization was more closely related to the source(s) of peripheral excitation. Cells excited by nociceptors with myelinated fibers had major dendritic projections in the marginal zone. Cells excited by nociceptors or thermoreceptors with unmyelinated fibers had important dendritic branching in the SGo. Innocuous mechanoreceptive neurons had primary dendritic arborization in the SGi when the input derived from unmyelinated fibers, or in the SGi and extending into the outer nucleus proprius (lamina III) when the afferent drive came from A delta fibers. These findings support the concept that laminae I and II constitute a major termination region for thin primary afferent fibers, myelinated fibers from nociceptors ending principally in lamina I and unmyelinated fibers from nociceptors, thermoreceptors, and mechanoreceptros terminating predominantly in lamina II. Substantial integrative and distributive functions can be expected of such an afferent termination zone.", "PMID": 447881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8314", "title": "Organization and development of brain stem auditory nuclei of the chicken: dendritic gradients in nucleus laminaris.", "content": "Nucleus laminaris (NL) is a third-order auditory nucleus in the avian brain stem which receives spatially-segregated binaural inputs from the second-order magnocellular nuclei. The organization of dendritic structure in NL was examined in Golgi-impregnated brains from hatchling chickens. Quantitative analyses of dendritic size and number were made from camera lucida drawings of 135 neurons sampled from throughout the nucleus. The most significant results of this study may be summarized as follows: (1) The preponderant neuron in n. laminaris may be characterized as having a cylindrical-to-ovoid cell body, about 20 micrometer in diameter. The neurons comprising NL were found to be nearly completely homogeneous in issuing their dendrites in a bipolar fashion: one group of dendrites is clustered on the dorsal surface of the cells, the other group on the ventral. The dendrites of NL are contained within the glia-free neuropil surrounding the nucleus. From the rostromedial to the caudolateral poles of NL there is a gradient of increasing extension of the dendrites, increasing number of tertiary and higher-order dendrites, and increasing distance from the somata of the occurrence of branching. (2) The total dendritic size (sum of the dorsal) and ventral dendritic lengths of the cells) increases 3-fold from the rostromedial to the caudolateral poles of NL. About 50% of the variance in dendritic size is accounted for by the position of the cells in NL, and the gradient of dendritic size increase has the same orientation across NL as the tonotopic gradient of decreasing characteristic frequency in NL. (3) From the rostromedial pole to the caudolateral pole of NL there is an 11-fold decrease in the number of primary dendrites along a gradient coinciding with the length and frequency gradients. Sixty-six percent of the variance in dendrite number is accounted for by position in the nucleus. (4) The correlation of dorsal and ventral dendritic size on a cell-by-cell basis is not high (r = 0.47), indicating a fair amount of variability on the single-cell level. On the other hand, the average dorsal dendritic length within an isofrequency band in NL correlates very highly with the average ventral dendritic length. Thus, on an areal basis, the amount of dendritic surface area offered to the dorsal and ventral afferents is tightly regulated. (5) The dorsal and ventral dendrites have separate gradients of increasing length and number across NL. The dorsal gradients are skewed toward the rostrocaudal axis, while the ventral dendritic gradients are skewed mediolaterally. (6) There was no correlation between either dendritic size or number of primary dendrites and the size of the somata in NL, which remains relatively constant throughout the nucleus. Several hypotheses about the ontogenetic control of dendritic structure are examined in light of the above data. Of these, the hypotheses that the ontogeny of dendritic size and number is largely under afferent control receives a great deal of circumstantial support.", "contents": "Organization and development of brain stem auditory nuclei of the chicken: dendritic gradients in nucleus laminaris. Nucleus laminaris (NL) is a third-order auditory nucleus in the avian brain stem which receives spatially-segregated binaural inputs from the second-order magnocellular nuclei. The organization of dendritic structure in NL was examined in Golgi-impregnated brains from hatchling chickens. Quantitative analyses of dendritic size and number were made from camera lucida drawings of 135 neurons sampled from throughout the nucleus. The most significant results of this study may be summarized as follows: (1) The preponderant neuron in n. laminaris may be characterized as having a cylindrical-to-ovoid cell body, about 20 micrometer in diameter. The neurons comprising NL were found to be nearly completely homogeneous in issuing their dendrites in a bipolar fashion: one group of dendrites is clustered on the dorsal surface of the cells, the other group on the ventral. The dendrites of NL are contained within the glia-free neuropil surrounding the nucleus. From the rostromedial to the caudolateral poles of NL there is a gradient of increasing extension of the dendrites, increasing number of tertiary and higher-order dendrites, and increasing distance from the somata of the occurrence of branching. (2) The total dendritic size (sum of the dorsal) and ventral dendritic lengths of the cells) increases 3-fold from the rostromedial to the caudolateral poles of NL. About 50% of the variance in dendritic size is accounted for by the position of the cells in NL, and the gradient of dendritic size increase has the same orientation across NL as the tonotopic gradient of decreasing characteristic frequency in NL. (3) From the rostromedial pole to the caudolateral pole of NL there is an 11-fold decrease in the number of primary dendrites along a gradient coinciding with the length and frequency gradients. Sixty-six percent of the variance in dendrite number is accounted for by position in the nucleus. (4) The correlation of dorsal and ventral dendritic size on a cell-by-cell basis is not high (r = 0.47), indicating a fair amount of variability on the single-cell level. On the other hand, the average dorsal dendritic length within an isofrequency band in NL correlates very highly with the average ventral dendritic length. Thus, on an areal basis, the amount of dendritic surface area offered to the dorsal and ventral afferents is tightly regulated. (5) The dorsal and ventral dendrites have separate gradients of increasing length and number across NL. The dorsal gradients are skewed toward the rostrocaudal axis, while the ventral dendritic gradients are skewed mediolaterally. (6) There was no correlation between either dendritic size or number of primary dendrites and the size of the somata in NL, which remains relatively constant throughout the nucleus. Several hypotheses about the ontogenetic control of dendritic structure are examined in light of the above data. Of these, the hypotheses that the ontogeny of dendritic size and number is largely under afferent control receives a great deal of circumstantial support.", "PMID": 447882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8315", "title": "Development of abnormal recrossing retinotectal projections after superior colliculus lesions in newborn Syrian hamsters.", "content": "The development of the retinal projections to the roof of the midbrain was studied in Syrian hamsters after right superior colliculus (SC) lesions on the day of birth, using both autoradiographic and degeneration techniques. The dead tissue resulting from the heat lesion is not completely removed until the eighth day after birth. Normally the midline of the SC is defined by a pia-lined fissure separating the left and right colliculi, but in the animals with early unilateral lesions, the pia at the midline is damaged. When it regrows, together with vascular and other meningeal tissues, it forms a flat tissue bridge across the midline as early as two days after the lesion. When the axons from the left eye reach the right SC, they encounter the dead tissue and separate into two bundles. One bundle courses over the surface of the dead tissue and one grows underneath it. It is not until the third to fourth day that axons in the dorsal bundle cross the midline, via the tissue bridge, to terminate anomalously in the medial wall of the left SC. When the quantity of such recrossing axons is small, they overlap extensively with the optic tract fibers from the other (right) eye which normally have innervated the entire SC by day 3. However, it appears that as the density of the recrossing axons increases they displace the axons originating in the other eye from the medial wall of the left SC. Thus, eventually fibers from both eyes terminate in the left SC, occupying separate territories with little, if any, overlap. Axons in the ventral bundle begin to innervate the deep layers of the right SC on day 2. These axons were never observed to recross the midline. These results indicate that mechanical guidance and axonal segregation dependent on relative densities are two processes that govern the development of retinotectal projections after early SC lesions in hamsters.", "contents": "Development of abnormal recrossing retinotectal projections after superior colliculus lesions in newborn Syrian hamsters. The development of the retinal projections to the roof of the midbrain was studied in Syrian hamsters after right superior colliculus (SC) lesions on the day of birth, using both autoradiographic and degeneration techniques. The dead tissue resulting from the heat lesion is not completely removed until the eighth day after birth. Normally the midline of the SC is defined by a pia-lined fissure separating the left and right colliculi, but in the animals with early unilateral lesions, the pia at the midline is damaged. When it regrows, together with vascular and other meningeal tissues, it forms a flat tissue bridge across the midline as early as two days after the lesion. When the axons from the left eye reach the right SC, they encounter the dead tissue and separate into two bundles. One bundle courses over the surface of the dead tissue and one grows underneath it. It is not until the third to fourth day that axons in the dorsal bundle cross the midline, via the tissue bridge, to terminate anomalously in the medial wall of the left SC. When the quantity of such recrossing axons is small, they overlap extensively with the optic tract fibers from the other (right) eye which normally have innervated the entire SC by day 3. However, it appears that as the density of the recrossing axons increases they displace the axons originating in the other eye from the medial wall of the left SC. Thus, eventually fibers from both eyes terminate in the left SC, occupying separate territories with little, if any, overlap. Axons in the ventral bundle begin to innervate the deep layers of the right SC on day 2. These axons were never observed to recross the midline. These results indicate that mechanical guidance and axonal segregation dependent on relative densities are two processes that govern the development of retinotectal projections after early SC lesions in hamsters.", "PMID": 447883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8316", "title": "Alpha- and gamma-motoneurons in the adult human spinal cord and somatic cranial nerve nuclei: the significance of dendroachitectonics studied by the Golgi method.", "content": "A modified Golgi method (Vaisamruat and Hess, '53) was found to give satisfactory impregnation of cell bodies and dendrites, but not of dendritic spines and axons, in adult human material fixed by immersion in formalin. Examination of the motor columns in the spinal cord intumescences and of the third and twelfth cranial nerve nuclei revealed four neuron types, based on dendritic field size and dendritic branching pattern. Two of these were recognized as alpha-motoneurons; one of them was seen only in the medial motor column of the spinal ventral horn, while the other was observed in the cranial motor nuclei as well as the spinal lateral motor column. Differences in somadendritic dimensions in this neuron type were thought to reflect motor unit size, and thus terminal axon field dimensions. Of the two types of gamma-motoneurons recognized in the spinal cord and oculomotor nucleus, one was a miniature version of the commoner type of alpha-motoneuron. On this basis, it is proposed that it may give rise to fusimotor axons with plate endings. The second type of gamma-motoneuron does not resemble any of the other motoneuron types, and its axons may therefore be thought to terminate in trail endings.", "contents": "Alpha- and gamma-motoneurons in the adult human spinal cord and somatic cranial nerve nuclei: the significance of dendroachitectonics studied by the Golgi method. A modified Golgi method (Vaisamruat and Hess, '53) was found to give satisfactory impregnation of cell bodies and dendrites, but not of dendritic spines and axons, in adult human material fixed by immersion in formalin. Examination of the motor columns in the spinal cord intumescences and of the third and twelfth cranial nerve nuclei revealed four neuron types, based on dendritic field size and dendritic branching pattern. Two of these were recognized as alpha-motoneurons; one of them was seen only in the medial motor column of the spinal ventral horn, while the other was observed in the cranial motor nuclei as well as the spinal lateral motor column. Differences in somadendritic dimensions in this neuron type were thought to reflect motor unit size, and thus terminal axon field dimensions. Of the two types of gamma-motoneurons recognized in the spinal cord and oculomotor nucleus, one was a miniature version of the commoner type of alpha-motoneuron. On this basis, it is proposed that it may give rise to fusimotor axons with plate endings. The second type of gamma-motoneuron does not resemble any of the other motoneuron types, and its axons may therefore be thought to terminate in trail endings.", "PMID": 447884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8317", "title": "Topographic organization of the projections of the retina to the pretectal region in the rat.", "content": "The pattern of projection of the retina to the pretectal region and its retinotopic organization were investigated in the rat by autoradiographic and silver impregnation techniques for axonal pathways. The endings of retinal axons form three terminal fields in the pretectum in: 1, olivary pretectal nucleus (PO), bilaterally; 2, posterior pretectal nucleus (PP), bilaterally; and 3, nucleus of the optic tract (NTO), contralaterally. The following retinotopic pattern was observed in rats surviving peripheral retinal lesions and injections of 3H-proline in the same eye, when the positions occupied by terminal degeneration in Fink-Heimer stained sections were matched with the corresponding areas deficient in radiolabel in adjacent autoradiographic sections showing the surviving parts of the terminal fields. The nasal periphery of the retina maps along the adjoining edges of PO and PP, both of which extend obliquely, in a posterolateral direction, through the entire extent of the pretectum. Both nuclei map the line of representation of the anterior midline (in the temporal retina) along their opposite edges (anterolaterally, in PO; posteromedially, in PP). This mirror-image symmetry is completed by the representation of the ventral peripheral retina separately in the rostral poles and the dorsal peripheral retina separately in the caudal poles of both nuclei. The map in NTO is vertically oriented, with the temporal retina, dorsally, the nasal retina, ventrally, the ventral retina, rostrally, and the dorsal retina caudally represented. The binocular area of the terminal field in PO is subdivided by a terminal-free zone into two parts that may process separately events in the central and lateral visual field.", "contents": "Topographic organization of the projections of the retina to the pretectal region in the rat. The pattern of projection of the retina to the pretectal region and its retinotopic organization were investigated in the rat by autoradiographic and silver impregnation techniques for axonal pathways. The endings of retinal axons form three terminal fields in the pretectum in: 1, olivary pretectal nucleus (PO), bilaterally; 2, posterior pretectal nucleus (PP), bilaterally; and 3, nucleus of the optic tract (NTO), contralaterally. The following retinotopic pattern was observed in rats surviving peripheral retinal lesions and injections of 3H-proline in the same eye, when the positions occupied by terminal degeneration in Fink-Heimer stained sections were matched with the corresponding areas deficient in radiolabel in adjacent autoradiographic sections showing the surviving parts of the terminal fields. The nasal periphery of the retina maps along the adjoining edges of PO and PP, both of which extend obliquely, in a posterolateral direction, through the entire extent of the pretectum. Both nuclei map the line of representation of the anterior midline (in the temporal retina) along their opposite edges (anterolaterally, in PO; posteromedially, in PP). This mirror-image symmetry is completed by the representation of the ventral peripheral retina separately in the rostral poles and the dorsal peripheral retina separately in the caudal poles of both nuclei. The map in NTO is vertically oriented, with the temporal retina, dorsally, the nasal retina, ventrally, the ventral retina, rostrally, and the dorsal retina caudally represented. The binocular area of the terminal field in PO is subdivided by a terminal-free zone into two parts that may process separately events in the central and lateral visual field.", "PMID": 447885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8318", "title": "Excess DNA in the nuclei of the subesophageal region of octopus brain.", "content": "Cytophotometric analyses of Feulgen-stained nuclei present in homogenates of vertical and subesophageal lobes of octopus brain have shown that the latter region contains larger nuclei with up to several times the amount of DNA present in vertical nuclei. No obvious relationship was found between DNA content and nuclear size. Except for a rather small minority, nuclei of the vertical lobe have a uniform size and the expected diploid amount of DNA. These parameters are not substantially dependent on body weight. In contrast, the DNA content of subesophageal nuclei increases progressively with body weight. The amount of DNA found in subesophageal nuclei does not seem to be a simple multiple of the diploid or haploid value.", "contents": "Excess DNA in the nuclei of the subesophageal region of octopus brain. Cytophotometric analyses of Feulgen-stained nuclei present in homogenates of vertical and subesophageal lobes of octopus brain have shown that the latter region contains larger nuclei with up to several times the amount of DNA present in vertical nuclei. No obvious relationship was found between DNA content and nuclear size. Except for a rather small minority, nuclei of the vertical lobe have a uniform size and the expected diploid amount of DNA. These parameters are not substantially dependent on body weight. In contrast, the DNA content of subesophageal nuclei increases progressively with body weight. The amount of DNA found in subesophageal nuclei does not seem to be a simple multiple of the diploid or haploid value.", "PMID": 447886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8319", "title": "A case of behavioral heterosis in mice: quantitative and qualitative aspects of performance in a water-escape task.", "content": "Fourteen hundred and four mice from two inbred strains (Balb/c and C57BL/6), F1, F2, and backcrosses were subjected to four trials in a water-escape task and to a swimming test. Detailed analysis of mice behavior in these situations showed that the \"F1 hybrid vigor\" affected behavioral characters not directly related to physical vigor but of potential adaptive value. Their superiority was mainly due to more frequent adoption of an efficient behavioral tactic (direct or edge escape paths toward the exit) and more rapid progress with experience in this respect than other generations exhibited. These results clearly show that heterosis is not limited to physical vigor but may extend to behavioral and even psychological characters.", "contents": "A case of behavioral heterosis in mice: quantitative and qualitative aspects of performance in a water-escape task. Fourteen hundred and four mice from two inbred strains (Balb/c and C57BL/6), F1, F2, and backcrosses were subjected to four trials in a water-escape task and to a swimming test. Detailed analysis of mice behavior in these situations showed that the \"F1 hybrid vigor\" affected behavioral characters not directly related to physical vigor but of potential adaptive value. Their superiority was mainly due to more frequent adoption of an efficient behavioral tactic (direct or edge escape paths toward the exit) and more rapid progress with experience in this respect than other generations exhibited. These results clearly show that heterosis is not limited to physical vigor but may extend to behavioral and even psychological characters.", "PMID": 447887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8320", "title": "Decreased locomotor and investigatory exploration after denervation of catecholamine terminal fields in the forebrain of rats.", "content": "Exploratory behaviors were examined after bilateral microinjections of 6-hydroxydopamine into two hypothalamic sites that produced different patterns of denervation of forebrain catecholamine terminal fields. After anterolateral injections rats locomoted and reared less in a novel open field, responded abnormally to changes in the degree of novelty of the open field, and investigated a novel object less. These are deficits in exploratory behavior because they were not secondary to the inhibition of open-field behavior by hyperemotionality, by general motor disability, or by the failure to detect novel spaces or objects. Such anterolateral injections produced loss of catecholamine fibers, determined histochemically, in neocortical, hippocampal, anterolateral hypothalamic, mesolimbic, mesocortical, and anteromedioventral striatal terminal fields and loss of dopaminergic perikarya in the A10 and anteromedial A9 cell groups. No deficits in exploratory behaviors occurred, however, after bilateral anteromedial 6-hydroxydopamine injections that denervated neocortical, hippocampal, and anteromedial hypothalamic catecholamine terminal fields. A critical forebrain catecholaminergic innervation for exploratory responses to novel stimuli may be within areas that were denervated by anterolateral but not by anteromedial hypothalamic 6-nydroxydopamine injections. These areas are mesolimbic, mesocortical, anteromedioventral, and anterolateral hypothalamic terminal fields.", "contents": "Decreased locomotor and investigatory exploration after denervation of catecholamine terminal fields in the forebrain of rats. Exploratory behaviors were examined after bilateral microinjections of 6-hydroxydopamine into two hypothalamic sites that produced different patterns of denervation of forebrain catecholamine terminal fields. After anterolateral injections rats locomoted and reared less in a novel open field, responded abnormally to changes in the degree of novelty of the open field, and investigated a novel object less. These are deficits in exploratory behavior because they were not secondary to the inhibition of open-field behavior by hyperemotionality, by general motor disability, or by the failure to detect novel spaces or objects. Such anterolateral injections produced loss of catecholamine fibers, determined histochemically, in neocortical, hippocampal, anterolateral hypothalamic, mesolimbic, mesocortical, and anteromedioventral striatal terminal fields and loss of dopaminergic perikarya in the A10 and anteromedial A9 cell groups. No deficits in exploratory behaviors occurred, however, after bilateral anteromedial 6-hydroxydopamine injections that denervated neocortical, hippocampal, and anteromedial hypothalamic catecholamine terminal fields. A critical forebrain catecholaminergic innervation for exploratory responses to novel stimuli may be within areas that were denervated by anterolateral but not by anteromedial hypothalamic 6-nydroxydopamine injections. These areas are mesolimbic, mesocortical, anteromedioventral, and anterolateral hypothalamic terminal fields.", "PMID": 447888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8321", "title": "L-Dopa repairs deficits in locomotor and investigatory exploration produced by denervation of catecholamine terminal fields in the forebrain of rats.", "content": "In a previous study rats were shown to have decreased locomotor and investigatory exploration after bilateral microinjections of 6-hydroxydopamine into the anterolateral hypothalamus. These deficits correlate with the loss of catecholamine terminals in neocortical, limbic, and anteromedioventral striatal brain sites. To test whether this correlation was causal, central catecholamines were increased by the intraperitoneal administration of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa), 10--40 mg/kg) after inhibition of extracerebral L-amino acid decarboxylase. Such treatment repaired the deficits in locomotor exploration and investigation in 6-hydroxydopamine rats. Pretreatment with the catecholamine antagonist chlorpromazine (1--2 mg/kg) blocked the increase in locomotor exploration and investigation produced by L-dopa in 6-hydroxydopamine rats. The results suggest, but do not prove, that L-dopa produced these behavioral effects by increasing central catecholamines at the denervated catecholamine receptor sites in the forebrain. These data and the data from the previous study are complementary evidence for the hypothesis that forebrain catecholamine synaptic action is necessary for normal exploratory behavior.", "contents": "L-Dopa repairs deficits in locomotor and investigatory exploration produced by denervation of catecholamine terminal fields in the forebrain of rats. In a previous study rats were shown to have decreased locomotor and investigatory exploration after bilateral microinjections of 6-hydroxydopamine into the anterolateral hypothalamus. These deficits correlate with the loss of catecholamine terminals in neocortical, limbic, and anteromedioventral striatal brain sites. To test whether this correlation was causal, central catecholamines were increased by the intraperitoneal administration of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa), 10--40 mg/kg) after inhibition of extracerebral L-amino acid decarboxylase. Such treatment repaired the deficits in locomotor exploration and investigation in 6-hydroxydopamine rats. Pretreatment with the catecholamine antagonist chlorpromazine (1--2 mg/kg) blocked the increase in locomotor exploration and investigation produced by L-dopa in 6-hydroxydopamine rats. The results suggest, but do not prove, that L-dopa produced these behavioral effects by increasing central catecholamines at the denervated catecholamine receptor sites in the forebrain. These data and the data from the previous study are complementary evidence for the hypothesis that forebrain catecholamine synaptic action is necessary for normal exploratory behavior.", "PMID": 447889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8322", "title": "Transfer of dietary selenium to milk.", "content": "Twenty-five lactating cows were used in groups of five to study the amounts of dietary selenium transferred to milk. Amounts of dietary selenium varied from deficient to five times the adequate concentration and ranged between 41 ppb and 828 ppb. Sodium selenite and brewers grains, a rich naturally occurring source of selenium, supplied supplemental selenium. Selenium in milk and plasma were related to the amount consumed, but the response was nonlinear since 4.8% of the added selenium was transferred to milk with a deficient diet but only .9% of the amount of added selenium was in milk of cows consuming diets adequate in selenium. Nineteen percent of the selenium furnished in brewers grains appeared in the milk when the ration was deficient in selenium. The small amounts of selenite selenium transferred from the diet to milk were too little (5.5 micrograms/kg) to be a potential hazard to human health when a diet containing .1 to .2 ppm of selenium was fed to dairy cows, an amount sufficient to meet the cow's dietary needs.", "contents": "Transfer of dietary selenium to milk. Twenty-five lactating cows were used in groups of five to study the amounts of dietary selenium transferred to milk. Amounts of dietary selenium varied from deficient to five times the adequate concentration and ranged between 41 ppb and 828 ppb. Sodium selenite and brewers grains, a rich naturally occurring source of selenium, supplied supplemental selenium. Selenium in milk and plasma were related to the amount consumed, but the response was nonlinear since 4.8% of the added selenium was transferred to milk with a deficient diet but only .9% of the amount of added selenium was in milk of cows consuming diets adequate in selenium. Nineteen percent of the selenium furnished in brewers grains appeared in the milk when the ration was deficient in selenium. The small amounts of selenite selenium transferred from the diet to milk were too little (5.5 micrograms/kg) to be a potential hazard to human health when a diet containing .1 to .2 ppm of selenium was fed to dairy cows, an amount sufficient to meet the cow's dietary needs.", "PMID": 447890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8323", "title": "Effect of low and high ambient temperatures on metabolism of radioiodine by the lactating goat.", "content": "Two lactating goats given an oral dose of iodine-125 excreted 16.8, 52.5, and 9.8% of the dose into the milk, urine, and feces when the ambient temperature was 33 C. The thyroids contained about .7% of the oral dose. At 5 C only 2.6% of the radioiodine was in the milk, but 71.2% was in the urine, 18.1% in the feces, and about 10% in the thyroid. The reduced competition by the thyroid plus enhanced transfer of radioiodine from blood to milk at 33 C was responsible for the large transfer of radioiodine into milk at 33 C.", "contents": "Effect of low and high ambient temperatures on metabolism of radioiodine by the lactating goat. Two lactating goats given an oral dose of iodine-125 excreted 16.8, 52.5, and 9.8% of the dose into the milk, urine, and feces when the ambient temperature was 33 C. The thyroids contained about .7% of the oral dose. At 5 C only 2.6% of the radioiodine was in the milk, but 71.2% was in the urine, 18.1% in the feces, and about 10% in the thyroid. The reduced competition by the thyroid plus enhanced transfer of radioiodine from blood to milk at 33 C was responsible for the large transfer of radioiodine into milk at 33 C.", "PMID": 447891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8324", "title": "Hypothyroidism and anemia related to fluoride in dairy cattle.", "content": "Blood and urine were collected from 72 cows in six dairy herds with varying severity of dental and bone fluorotic lesions. Urinary fluoride averaged 5.13 ppm and ranged from 1.04 to 15.7 ppm fluoride. Thyroxine and triiodothyronine in serum decreased with increasing urinary fluoride, eosinophils increased, and cholesterol tended to decrease. Cattle afflicted with fluorosis developed hypothyroidism, anemia, and eosinophilia of leukocytes. Bone ash averaged 2400 ppm fluoride in 22 specimens from eight herds (range 850 to 6935 ppm fluoride). Mineral supplements were the main sources of excess fluoride. Fluoride lesions were on some cows of all herds suggesting that fluoride may affect the health and performance of some cows in \"normal\" herds. Fluoride lesions were on young cattle and calves in fluorosis herds.", "contents": "Hypothyroidism and anemia related to fluoride in dairy cattle. Blood and urine were collected from 72 cows in six dairy herds with varying severity of dental and bone fluorotic lesions. Urinary fluoride averaged 5.13 ppm and ranged from 1.04 to 15.7 ppm fluoride. Thyroxine and triiodothyronine in serum decreased with increasing urinary fluoride, eosinophils increased, and cholesterol tended to decrease. Cattle afflicted with fluorosis developed hypothyroidism, anemia, and eosinophilia of leukocytes. Bone ash averaged 2400 ppm fluoride in 22 specimens from eight herds (range 850 to 6935 ppm fluoride). Mineral supplements were the main sources of excess fluoride. Fluoride lesions were on some cows of all herds suggesting that fluoride may affect the health and performance of some cows in \"normal\" herds. Fluoride lesions were on young cattle and calves in fluorosis herds.", "PMID": 447892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8325", "title": "Microbial transaminase activities and their relationship with bovine rumen metabolites.", "content": "Two each adult male crossbred cattle and murrah buffalo were fed a diet of alfalfa hay, chopped wheat straw, and concentrate mixture. Total rumen transaminase activity of cattle was higher than that of buffalo. Rumen protozoal fractions showed higher total transaminase activity than bacterial fractions in both ruminant species. Besides generally studied glutamate oxalacetate transaminase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase, a large number of other microbial transaminases also have been detected in the rumen of both the ruminant species. Bacterial fractions of rumen liquor were devoid of transaminases utilizing tryptophan, threonine, and lysine as their substrates. Ruminal ammonia and nonprotein nitrogen were correlated positively with microbial transaminases in both species. Transamination reactions may be important for assimilation of ruminal ammonia to cellular proteins.", "contents": "Microbial transaminase activities and their relationship with bovine rumen metabolites. Two each adult male crossbred cattle and murrah buffalo were fed a diet of alfalfa hay, chopped wheat straw, and concentrate mixture. Total rumen transaminase activity of cattle was higher than that of buffalo. Rumen protozoal fractions showed higher total transaminase activity than bacterial fractions in both ruminant species. Besides generally studied glutamate oxalacetate transaminase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase, a large number of other microbial transaminases also have been detected in the rumen of both the ruminant species. Bacterial fractions of rumen liquor were devoid of transaminases utilizing tryptophan, threonine, and lysine as their substrates. Ruminal ammonia and nonprotein nitrogen were correlated positively with microbial transaminases in both species. Transamination reactions may be important for assimilation of ruminal ammonia to cellular proteins.", "PMID": 447894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8326", "title": "Subjective loudness and annoyance of filtered N-wave sonic booms.", "content": "The contribution of the \"infrasonic\" low-frequency content of sonic boom N waves to subjective loudness and annoyance has been investigated. An extended low-frequency response loudspeaker-driven simulation booth was employed, with computer-generated input test signals. For test N waves of 1 ms rise time and 150 ms duration, frequencies below 25 and 50 Hz, respectively, were cut off by digital filters simulating simple RC circuits. The filtered signal amplitude was adjusted versus the amplitude (48 Pa) of a reference unfiltered N wave (effective low-frequency cutoff approximately 0.1 Hz) until the two sounded equally loud (first experiment) or equally annoying (second experiment). The amplitude differences for equality were very slight: less than 0.6 dB at most. Surprisingly, while loss of the low frequencies slightly decreased the loudness, it slightly increased the annoyance.", "contents": "Subjective loudness and annoyance of filtered N-wave sonic booms. The contribution of the \"infrasonic\" low-frequency content of sonic boom N waves to subjective loudness and annoyance has been investigated. An extended low-frequency response loudspeaker-driven simulation booth was employed, with computer-generated input test signals. For test N waves of 1 ms rise time and 150 ms duration, frequencies below 25 and 50 Hz, respectively, were cut off by digital filters simulating simple RC circuits. The filtered signal amplitude was adjusted versus the amplitude (48 Pa) of a reference unfiltered N wave (effective low-frequency cutoff approximately 0.1 Hz) until the two sounded equally loud (first experiment) or equally annoying (second experiment). The amplitude differences for equality were very slight: less than 0.6 dB at most. Surprisingly, while loss of the low frequencies slightly decreased the loudness, it slightly increased the annoyance.", "PMID": 447906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8327", "title": "Normal short-latency electrophysiological filtered click responses recorded from vertex and external auditory meatus.", "content": "We recorded normal electrophysiological responses to third-octave filtered clicks from external auditory meatus (EAM) and vertex electrodes referred to coupled earlobe electrodes (forehead ground). From both vertex and EAM, polarity-sensitive responses predominated at low frequencies and exhibited characteristics of both phase-locked neural responses (frequency-following response or FFR) and cochlear microphonics (CM). The FFR-like response predominated at the vertex site and the CM-like response predominated at EAM. At high frequencies, polarity-insensitive responses closely resembled rectangular-pulse click action potentials and brainstem evoked potentials, with clearly defined N1 and V peaks recorded from EAM and vertex, respectively. As frequency was lowered, the N1 and V peak latencies increased, the peaks broadened, and the latency-intensity curves steepened with greater prolongation occurring at lower click intensities. Lowering click frequency also shortened the N1-V interval and caused the plot of N1-V interval versus click intensity to become steeper. Plots of polarity-insensitive response amplitudes and thresholds against frequency revealed a high frequency bias for both N1 and V, but the V \"frequency response\" was flatter. A possible explanation of the shortened N1-V interval at low click frequencies based on this flatter V \"Frequency response\" is presented.", "contents": "Normal short-latency electrophysiological filtered click responses recorded from vertex and external auditory meatus. We recorded normal electrophysiological responses to third-octave filtered clicks from external auditory meatus (EAM) and vertex electrodes referred to coupled earlobe electrodes (forehead ground). From both vertex and EAM, polarity-sensitive responses predominated at low frequencies and exhibited characteristics of both phase-locked neural responses (frequency-following response or FFR) and cochlear microphonics (CM). The FFR-like response predominated at the vertex site and the CM-like response predominated at EAM. At high frequencies, polarity-insensitive responses closely resembled rectangular-pulse click action potentials and brainstem evoked potentials, with clearly defined N1 and V peaks recorded from EAM and vertex, respectively. As frequency was lowered, the N1 and V peak latencies increased, the peaks broadened, and the latency-intensity curves steepened with greater prolongation occurring at lower click intensities. Lowering click frequency also shortened the N1-V interval and caused the plot of N1-V interval versus click intensity to become steeper. Plots of polarity-insensitive response amplitudes and thresholds against frequency revealed a high frequency bias for both N1 and V, but the V \"frequency response\" was flatter. A possible explanation of the shortened N1-V interval at low click frequencies based on this flatter V \"Frequency response\" is presented.", "PMID": 447907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8328", "title": "Stop consonant place perception with single-formant stimuli: evidence for the role of the front-cavity resonance.", "content": "The third formant and the second formant were found on average to cue the place of articulation of intervocalic stop consonants equally well when the stop consonants occurred before the vowel/i/. This result and others provide some support for the notion that the fundamental resonance of the front cavity plays an important role in the perception of the phonetic dimension of place of articulation.", "contents": "Stop consonant place perception with single-formant stimuli: evidence for the role of the front-cavity resonance. The third formant and the second formant were found on average to cue the place of articulation of intervocalic stop consonants equally well when the stop consonants occurred before the vowel/i/. This result and others provide some support for the notion that the fundamental resonance of the front cavity plays an important role in the perception of the phonetic dimension of place of articulation.", "PMID": 447908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8329", "title": "Selective adaptation effects in infant speech perception paradigms.", "content": "The present studies were conducted to explore the possible role of selective adaptation in infant speech perception. In the first study, in which the growth of adaptation was examined by presenting adult listeners with successive blocks of 20 repeating stimuli, reliable adaptation effects were observed after only 80 stimulus presentations. In addition, recovery following adaptation was relatively rapid and complete by the end of a postadaptation identification sequence. Experiment II constituted a more direct investigation of the possible role of adaptation in infant speech perception in which actual protocols from heart-rate (HR) and non-nutritive high-amplitude sucking (HAS) infant testing sessions were presented to adult listeners. Reliable adaptation effects were obtained within the HAS protocol, but not within the HR format. This pattern of results was consistent with that observed in experiment I. The implications of these adult adaptation results for the processes underlying the infant's responsiveness to these stimulis were discussed.", "contents": "Selective adaptation effects in infant speech perception paradigms. The present studies were conducted to explore the possible role of selective adaptation in infant speech perception. In the first study, in which the growth of adaptation was examined by presenting adult listeners with successive blocks of 20 repeating stimuli, reliable adaptation effects were observed after only 80 stimulus presentations. In addition, recovery following adaptation was relatively rapid and complete by the end of a postadaptation identification sequence. Experiment II constituted a more direct investigation of the possible role of adaptation in infant speech perception in which actual protocols from heart-rate (HR) and non-nutritive high-amplitude sucking (HAS) infant testing sessions were presented to adult listeners. Reliable adaptation effects were obtained within the HAS protocol, but not within the HR format. This pattern of results was consistent with that observed in experiment I. The implications of these adult adaptation results for the processes underlying the infant's responsiveness to these stimulis were discussed.", "PMID": 447909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8330", "title": "Stop consonant discrimination based on human audition.", "content": "A system for discrimination of stop consonants has been designed on the basis of studies of auditory physiology and psychophysics. The system consists of a one-third octave filter bank as an approximation to auditory tuning curves, a bank of high speed, wide dynamic range envelope detectors, a logarithmic amplifier, and a digital computer for analysis and display. Features, chosen on the basis of psychophysical experiments, are then abstracted, and fed to a discriminant analysis program which decides on the most probable phomene. Discrimination accuracy of about 77% for stop consonants in initial position has been achieved, with a 15-speaker data set.", "contents": "Stop consonant discrimination based on human audition. A system for discrimination of stop consonants has been designed on the basis of studies of auditory physiology and psychophysics. The system consists of a one-third octave filter bank as an approximation to auditory tuning curves, a bank of high speed, wide dynamic range envelope detectors, a logarithmic amplifier, and a digital computer for analysis and display. Features, chosen on the basis of psychophysical experiments, are then abstracted, and fed to a discriminant analysis program which decides on the most probable phomene. Discrimination accuracy of about 77% for stop consonants in initial position has been achieved, with a 15-speaker data set.", "PMID": 447910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8331", "title": "Investigating the MESA (multipoint electrotactile speech aid): the transmission of connected discourse.", "content": "Three normal-hearing young adults were tested in their reception of connected discourse materials under two receiving conditions; visual-reception alone (lipreading) and visual reception in conjunction with an electrotactile speech aid (MESA). Subjects were artificially deafened with earplugs and white noise; all stimuli were delivered live-voice using a special tracking procedure. Analysis of the data suggests that after an initial period of learning, combined visual and electrotactile receptive performance exceeds lipreading-alone performance. After extensive learning however, performance in lipreading alone or MESA plus lipreading is practically equivalent.", "contents": "Investigating the MESA (multipoint electrotactile speech aid): the transmission of connected discourse. Three normal-hearing young adults were tested in their reception of connected discourse materials under two receiving conditions; visual-reception alone (lipreading) and visual reception in conjunction with an electrotactile speech aid (MESA). Subjects were artificially deafened with earplugs and white noise; all stimuli were delivered live-voice using a special tracking procedure. Analysis of the data suggests that after an initial period of learning, combined visual and electrotactile receptive performance exceeds lipreading-alone performance. After extensive learning however, performance in lipreading alone or MESA plus lipreading is practically equivalent.", "PMID": 447911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8332", "title": "Fatigue and recovery of the human acoustic stapedius reflex in industrial noise.", "content": "The fatiguability of the acoustic stapedius muscle reflex in an actual noisy industrial environment was investigated in normal-hearing subjects. In a laboratory situation a small depression was found with a considerable individual variability. The stapedius reflex recovered slowly, approximately as a linear function of time. In a field study on an entire day of exposure in a ship-building yard the reflex depression was on the average 4 dB in response to a stimulation of 2000 Hz 10 min after the end of the workday. This corresponds to less than 8 dB immediately at the end of the exposure.", "contents": "Fatigue and recovery of the human acoustic stapedius reflex in industrial noise. The fatiguability of the acoustic stapedius muscle reflex in an actual noisy industrial environment was investigated in normal-hearing subjects. In a laboratory situation a small depression was found with a considerable individual variability. The stapedius reflex recovered slowly, approximately as a linear function of time. In a field study on an entire day of exposure in a ship-building yard the reflex depression was on the average 4 dB in response to a stimulation of 2000 Hz 10 min after the end of the workday. This corresponds to less than 8 dB immediately at the end of the exposure.", "PMID": 447912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8333", "title": "Comparison of WKB and finite difference calculations for a two-dimensional cochlear model.", "content": "There are many points of uncertainty in the subject of cochlear models. In this paper only the question of efficient computing methods is addressed. For the cochlear model with a one-dimensional approximation for the fluid motion, Zweig, Lipes, and Pierce [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 59, 975-982 (1976)] have shown that the WKB method agrees well with a direct numerical integration. For the two-dimensional fluid model, Neely [E.D. thesis, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA (1977)] has shown that a direct finite difference solution is an order of magnitude faster than the integral equation approach used by Allen [J. Acoust. Soc. Am 61, 110-119 (1977)]. In the present work, a formal WKB solution is derived following Whitham [Linear and Nonlinear Waves (Wiley, New York, 1974)]. The advantage of this formulation is simplicity, but the disadvantage is that no error estimate is available. We find that the numerical results from the WKB solution agree well with those of Neely (1977), while the computer time is reduced by another order of magnitude. Thus, the WKB method seems to offer the satisfactory accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility for treating the more realistic cochlear models.", "contents": "Comparison of WKB and finite difference calculations for a two-dimensional cochlear model. There are many points of uncertainty in the subject of cochlear models. In this paper only the question of efficient computing methods is addressed. For the cochlear model with a one-dimensional approximation for the fluid motion, Zweig, Lipes, and Pierce [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 59, 975-982 (1976)] have shown that the WKB method agrees well with a direct numerical integration. For the two-dimensional fluid model, Neely [E.D. thesis, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA (1977)] has shown that a direct finite difference solution is an order of magnitude faster than the integral equation approach used by Allen [J. Acoust. Soc. Am 61, 110-119 (1977)]. In the present work, a formal WKB solution is derived following Whitham [Linear and Nonlinear Waves (Wiley, New York, 1974)]. The advantage of this formulation is simplicity, but the disadvantage is that no error estimate is available. We find that the numerical results from the WKB solution agree well with those of Neely (1977), while the computer time is reduced by another order of magnitude. Thus, the WKB method seems to offer the satisfactory accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility for treating the more realistic cochlear models.", "PMID": 447913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8334", "title": "Comparison of WKB calculations and experimental results for three-dimensional cochlear models.", "content": "The WKB asymptotic method is applied to the calculation of cochlear models with square scala cross section, for which the fluid motion is fully three dimensional. The analysis begins with the exact solution for wave propagation in a duct with constant properties. This solution is somewhat tedious but straightforward, since it requires a Fourier series expansion across the duct. Then with the formulation of Whitham [Linear and Nonlinear Waves (Wiley, New York, 1974)], the approximate solution is readily generated for the duct with properties which vary slowly along the length. Numerical calculations are carried out for the experimental models of Cannel [Ph.D. thesis, Univ. of Warwick (1969)] and Helle [Dr.-Ing. disser., Technische Univ., M\u00fcchen (1974)] who furnish quantitative details of both \"basilar membrane\" response and model parameters. Without any free parameters for adjusting, the present WKB solution shows quite satisfactory agreement with the experimental model results. Computer time is reasonable; the calculation of displacement envelope and phase at a number of stations along the cochlea for a given frequency requires only one second of CPU time. Thus the credibility and practically of the approach is established for the investigation of yet more realistic and more elaborate cochlear models.", "contents": "Comparison of WKB calculations and experimental results for three-dimensional cochlear models. The WKB asymptotic method is applied to the calculation of cochlear models with square scala cross section, for which the fluid motion is fully three dimensional. The analysis begins with the exact solution for wave propagation in a duct with constant properties. This solution is somewhat tedious but straightforward, since it requires a Fourier series expansion across the duct. Then with the formulation of Whitham [Linear and Nonlinear Waves (Wiley, New York, 1974)], the approximate solution is readily generated for the duct with properties which vary slowly along the length. Numerical calculations are carried out for the experimental models of Cannel [Ph.D. thesis, Univ. of Warwick (1969)] and Helle [Dr.-Ing. disser., Technische Univ., M\u00fcchen (1974)] who furnish quantitative details of both \"basilar membrane\" response and model parameters. Without any free parameters for adjusting, the present WKB solution shows quite satisfactory agreement with the experimental model results. Computer time is reasonable; the calculation of displacement envelope and phase at a number of stations along the cochlea for a given frequency requires only one second of CPU time. Thus the credibility and practically of the approach is established for the investigation of yet more realistic and more elaborate cochlear models.", "PMID": 447914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8335", "title": "Perceived sound quality of sound-reproducing systems.", "content": "Perceived sound quality of loudspeakers, headphones, and hearing aids was investigated by multivariate techniques from experimental psychology with the purpose (a) to find out and interpret the meaning of relevant dimensions in perceived sound quality, (b) find out the positions of the investigated systems in these dimensions, (c) explore the relations between the perceptual dimensions and the physical characteristics of the systems, and (d) explore the relations between the perceptual dimensions and overall evaluations of the systems. The resulting dimensions were interpreted as \"clearness/distinctness,\" \"sharpness/hardness softness,\" \"brightness-darkness,\" \"fullness-thinness,\" \"feeling of space,\" \"nearness,\" \"disturbing sounds,\" and \"loudness.\" Their relations to physical variables were explored by studying the positions of the investigated systems in the respective dimensions. Their relations to overall evaluations were studied, and the implications of the investigations for continued research are discussed.", "contents": "Perceived sound quality of sound-reproducing systems. Perceived sound quality of loudspeakers, headphones, and hearing aids was investigated by multivariate techniques from experimental psychology with the purpose (a) to find out and interpret the meaning of relevant dimensions in perceived sound quality, (b) find out the positions of the investigated systems in these dimensions, (c) explore the relations between the perceptual dimensions and the physical characteristics of the systems, and (d) explore the relations between the perceptual dimensions and overall evaluations of the systems. The resulting dimensions were interpreted as \"clearness/distinctness,\" \"sharpness/hardness softness,\" \"brightness-darkness,\" \"fullness-thinness,\" \"feeling of space,\" \"nearness,\" \"disturbing sounds,\" and \"loudness.\" Their relations to physical variables were explored by studying the positions of the investigated systems in the respective dimensions. Their relations to overall evaluations were studied, and the implications of the investigations for continued research are discussed.", "PMID": 447915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8336", "title": "Role of distinctive features in dichotic perception of 21 English consonants.", "content": "The role distinctive features played in the identification of 21 dichotically presented syllable initial English consonants was evaluated. Results were analyzed for the entire stimulus set and for various intra- and inter-manner class comparisons. Consistent with previous dichotic studies of stops alone, stops as a subgroup showed a large right ear advantage, a high incidence of blend errors, and greater accuracy in identification when the competing stimuli contrasted on one (rather than two) distinctive features. Results for manner classes other than stops, for inter-manner comparisons and for the total stimulus set indicated increased correct identification with increasing numbers of distinctive feature differences between the two syllables. Analysis of error patterns revealed that, in addition to the stops, continuants, and stop-continuant, stop-affricate, and stop-nasal pairs revealed significant numbers of blend errors. Error responses also showed a tendency for unmarked feature specifications to predominate significantly over marked feature specifications. Finally, the magnitude of the right ear advantage varied significantly as a function of manner class, but not as a function of number of feature contrasts.", "contents": "Role of distinctive features in dichotic perception of 21 English consonants. The role distinctive features played in the identification of 21 dichotically presented syllable initial English consonants was evaluated. Results were analyzed for the entire stimulus set and for various intra- and inter-manner class comparisons. Consistent with previous dichotic studies of stops alone, stops as a subgroup showed a large right ear advantage, a high incidence of blend errors, and greater accuracy in identification when the competing stimuli contrasted on one (rather than two) distinctive features. Results for manner classes other than stops, for inter-manner comparisons and for the total stimulus set indicated increased correct identification with increasing numbers of distinctive feature differences between the two syllables. Analysis of error patterns revealed that, in addition to the stops, continuants, and stop-continuant, stop-affricate, and stop-nasal pairs revealed significant numbers of blend errors. Error responses also showed a tendency for unmarked feature specifications to predominate significantly over marked feature specifications. Finally, the magnitude of the right ear advantage varied significantly as a function of manner class, but not as a function of number of feature contrasts.", "PMID": 447916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8337", "title": "Larger ear replica for KEMAR manikin.", "content": "A larger external ear replica for use on a KEMAR manikin has been developed to meet the needs of hearing aid designers and other manikin users. The ear was selected from the 24 subject sample used by Burkhard and Sachs (1975) as the basis for the original ear development. Ear dimensions were chosen to be two standard deviations larger than the existing ear. A mirroring technique was used to give right and left ears with nearly identical properties. Responses of the manikin with the new ears are given and compared with responses with the original ears.", "contents": "Larger ear replica for KEMAR manikin. A larger external ear replica for use on a KEMAR manikin has been developed to meet the needs of hearing aid designers and other manikin users. The ear was selected from the 24 subject sample used by Burkhard and Sachs (1975) as the basis for the original ear development. Ear dimensions were chosen to be two standard deviations larger than the existing ear. A mirroring technique was used to give right and left ears with nearly identical properties. Responses of the manikin with the new ears are given and compared with responses with the original ears.", "PMID": 447918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8338", "title": "Mechanical properties of single motor units in speech musculature.", "content": "Electromyograms were recorded from three subjects during steady, low-rate discharge of single motor units of anterior belly of digastric, accompanying maintenance of isometric tension. The overall tension developed in muscles subserving mandibular depression was recorded from a force tansducer situated inferior to the mandibular symphysis. The force transducer output from the 90 ms period immediately following each of the several hundred discharges of a motor unit was averaged to obtain a characteristic tension curve for the contractile response (twitch) of that unit. Peak twitch tensions and time taken to develop peak tension (contraction time) were recorded for 27 motor units. The obtained median twitch tension of 0.26 g and contraction time of 29 ms were compared with values obtained for units in other human muscles and in animal muscles. As expected from the size principle, later recruited units possessed higher twitch tensions. Contrary to some statements of the size principle, contraction times were not shorter in later recruited units. Data on muscles elevating the mandible were also evaluated.", "contents": "Mechanical properties of single motor units in speech musculature. Electromyograms were recorded from three subjects during steady, low-rate discharge of single motor units of anterior belly of digastric, accompanying maintenance of isometric tension. The overall tension developed in muscles subserving mandibular depression was recorded from a force tansducer situated inferior to the mandibular symphysis. The force transducer output from the 90 ms period immediately following each of the several hundred discharges of a motor unit was averaged to obtain a characteristic tension curve for the contractile response (twitch) of that unit. Peak twitch tensions and time taken to develop peak tension (contraction time) were recorded for 27 motor units. The obtained median twitch tension of 0.26 g and contraction time of 29 ms were compared with values obtained for units in other human muscles and in animal muscles. As expected from the size principle, later recruited units possessed higher twitch tensions. Contrary to some statements of the size principle, contraction times were not shorter in later recruited units. Data on muscles elevating the mandible were also evaluated.", "PMID": 447917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8339", "title": "Temporal summation of pure tones in birds.", "content": "Two parakeets and two field sparrows were trained by a method of avoidance conditioning to respond to pure tones. Absolute thresholds were obtained for 10 durations of a 2.86-kHz tone. The temporal integration function for these four birds can best be described by a time constant pi of 230 ms. These data are similar to those reported for a number of other species.", "contents": "Temporal summation of pure tones in birds. Two parakeets and two field sparrows were trained by a method of avoidance conditioning to respond to pure tones. Absolute thresholds were obtained for 10 durations of a 2.86-kHz tone. The temporal integration function for these four birds can best be described by a time constant pi of 230 ms. These data are similar to those reported for a number of other species.", "PMID": 447919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8340", "title": "Further studies on the Schroeder-Hall hair-cell model.", "content": "The Schroeder-Hall hair-cell model [M.R. Shroeder and J.L. Hall, \"Model for mechanical to neural transduction in the auditory receptor,\" J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 55, 1055-1060 (1974] was further explored using additional stimulus waveforms and analysis techniques. The model is shown to have other interesting properties such as the ability to generate realistic two-tone interactions. Amended to limit the growth of transmitter release, the model also produces realistic adaptation and incremental response data. Other amendments improved high-intensity period histogram waveshapes. No one amendment, however, allowed the model to produce both realistic adaptation curves as well as period histogram waveforms that faithfully mimicked physiological data.", "contents": "Further studies on the Schroeder-Hall hair-cell model. The Schroeder-Hall hair-cell model [M.R. Shroeder and J.L. Hall, \"Model for mechanical to neural transduction in the auditory receptor,\" J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 55, 1055-1060 (1974] was further explored using additional stimulus waveforms and analysis techniques. The model is shown to have other interesting properties such as the ability to generate realistic two-tone interactions. Amended to limit the growth of transmitter release, the model also produces realistic adaptation and incremental response data. Other amendments improved high-intensity period histogram waveshapes. No one amendment, however, allowed the model to produce both realistic adaptation curves as well as period histogram waveforms that faithfully mimicked physiological data.", "PMID": 447920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8341", "title": "Posterior subcapsular cataracts in steroid-requiring asthmatic children.", "content": "Slit-lamp examinations were performed on 24 children and adolescents with severe asthma, all of whom had received steroids for at least 365 days. Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCC) were detected in 7 (29.1%). None of the patients had been treated with beclomethasone. All 7 of the patients with PSCC were in the subgroup of 14 patients who had been on the highest doses of corticosteroid, 10 mg or more per day, for the longest period of time. The 7 children with PSCC were all below the fifth percentile for height and had fallen away from their normal growth curve. Of the 17 children in whom PSCC were not detected, only 1 was below the fifth percentile for height. It would seem from our results that the steroid-requiring asthmatic who is growth-suppressed is at an increased risk for developing PSCC. We have documented the reversal of PSCC in 2 children. Both of these children had been placed on beclomethasone, which allowed for the discontinuation of daily prednisone in one case and a reduction to less than 10 mg per day of prednisone in the other. The reversal occurred within 6 months of starting on beclomethasone.", "contents": "Posterior subcapsular cataracts in steroid-requiring asthmatic children. Slit-lamp examinations were performed on 24 children and adolescents with severe asthma, all of whom had received steroids for at least 365 days. Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCC) were detected in 7 (29.1%). None of the patients had been treated with beclomethasone. All 7 of the patients with PSCC were in the subgroup of 14 patients who had been on the highest doses of corticosteroid, 10 mg or more per day, for the longest period of time. The 7 children with PSCC were all below the fifth percentile for height and had fallen away from their normal growth curve. Of the 17 children in whom PSCC were not detected, only 1 was below the fifth percentile for height. It would seem from our results that the steroid-requiring asthmatic who is growth-suppressed is at an increased risk for developing PSCC. We have documented the reversal of PSCC in 2 children. Both of these children had been placed on beclomethasone, which allowed for the discontinuation of daily prednisone in one case and a reduction to less than 10 mg per day of prednisone in the other. The reversal occurred within 6 months of starting on beclomethasone.", "PMID": 447940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8342", "title": "Fatal myocardial toxicity during continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol therapy of asthma.", "content": "We recently utilized continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol in the treatment of respiratory failure in an 18-yr-old steroid-dependent asthmatic female. Aminophylline, hydrocortisone, aerosolized isoetharine, and oxygen were also administrered. The patient responded to this therapy, with PaCO2 falling from 70 torr to 33 torr in 18 hr. The maximum isoproterenol dosage administered was 0.32 microgram/kg/min. Thirty-six hours following the institution of therapy, while the isoproterenol was being tapered, the patient experienced an increase in respiratory distress followed by cardiac arrest. Postmortem examination revealed multiple small areas of myocardial necrosis. These findings, unusual in asthma, probably were related to the effects of isoproterenol or the combination of isoproterenol and aminophylline on the stressed myocardium. The vulnerability of the hypoxic myocardium to the effects of isoproterenol suggests that careful cardiac monitoring is essential in the management of patients receiving this medication for treatment of respiratory failure secondary to severe asthma.", "contents": "Fatal myocardial toxicity during continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol therapy of asthma. We recently utilized continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol in the treatment of respiratory failure in an 18-yr-old steroid-dependent asthmatic female. Aminophylline, hydrocortisone, aerosolized isoetharine, and oxygen were also administrered. The patient responded to this therapy, with PaCO2 falling from 70 torr to 33 torr in 18 hr. The maximum isoproterenol dosage administered was 0.32 microgram/kg/min. Thirty-six hours following the institution of therapy, while the isoproterenol was being tapered, the patient experienced an increase in respiratory distress followed by cardiac arrest. Postmortem examination revealed multiple small areas of myocardial necrosis. These findings, unusual in asthma, probably were related to the effects of isoproterenol or the combination of isoproterenol and aminophylline on the stressed myocardium. The vulnerability of the hypoxic myocardium to the effects of isoproterenol suggests that careful cardiac monitoring is essential in the management of patients receiving this medication for treatment of respiratory failure secondary to severe asthma.", "PMID": 447942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8343", "title": "Pneumomediastinum as a complication of asthma in teenage and young adult patients.", "content": "The characteristics of 11 patients (age range, 13 to 31 yr) with asthma complicated by pneumomediastinum are presented. Nine of 11 patients were male. Cough and chest pain were prominent symptoms in the affected individuals. Subcutaneous emphysema was noted in all but 1 patient who presented with an unusual radiographic finding: a radiolucent rim surrounding the pulmonary artery. Hamman's sign was detected in 7 patients. None of the patients required specific therapy for pneumomediastinum. The pathophysiology of pneumomediastinum was reviewed.", "contents": "Pneumomediastinum as a complication of asthma in teenage and young adult patients. The characteristics of 11 patients (age range, 13 to 31 yr) with asthma complicated by pneumomediastinum are presented. Nine of 11 patients were male. Cough and chest pain were prominent symptoms in the affected individuals. Subcutaneous emphysema was noted in all but 1 patient who presented with an unusual radiographic finding: a radiolucent rim surrounding the pulmonary artery. Hamman's sign was detected in 7 patients. None of the patients required specific therapy for pneumomediastinum. The pathophysiology of pneumomediastinum was reviewed.", "PMID": 447943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8344", "title": "Exercise-induced anaphylactic reaction to shellfish.", "content": "The syndrome of immediate type I food hypersensitivity, mediated by tissue-bound IgE antibody and mast cell histamine release, is well recorded in the medical literature. This case study represents a previously undescribed late food hypersensitivity, induced only by strenuous exercise. Identification of this new syndrome illustrates classical epidemiologic analysis, improves medical advice for the allergic and athletically inclined, and raises new questions in the areas of allergy and immunology.", "contents": "Exercise-induced anaphylactic reaction to shellfish. The syndrome of immediate type I food hypersensitivity, mediated by tissue-bound IgE antibody and mast cell histamine release, is well recorded in the medical literature. This case study represents a previously undescribed late food hypersensitivity, induced only by strenuous exercise. Identification of this new syndrome illustrates classical epidemiologic analysis, improves medical advice for the allergic and athletically inclined, and raises new questions in the areas of allergy and immunology.", "PMID": 447945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8345", "title": "Complement activation following intravenous contrast material administration.", "content": "Untoward reactions to iodinated contrast material (ICM) continue to be a significant medical problem. Complement components were assayed in patients having reactions to evaluate the possibility of complement activation in these reactions. Reactor group samples were drawn from patients during the contrast reactions and then 2 weeks later to provide the equivalent of preinjection baseline samples, Control patient values were determined from blood samples drawn from patients before and 20 minutes after ICM injections without reaction. There were consistent falls in total hemolytic complement (CH50) as well as C3, C4, and C5 in both the control group and the reactor group. These falls in the complement reached statistical significance only for CH50 in the reactor group. The results indicate that complement activation occurs after ICM injection. This activation can occur independent of clinical reactions; however, falls in total hemolytic complement and low hemolytic complement titers prior to ICM infusion may be related to the presence of anaphylactoid symptoms.", "contents": "Complement activation following intravenous contrast material administration. Untoward reactions to iodinated contrast material (ICM) continue to be a significant medical problem. Complement components were assayed in patients having reactions to evaluate the possibility of complement activation in these reactions. Reactor group samples were drawn from patients during the contrast reactions and then 2 weeks later to provide the equivalent of preinjection baseline samples, Control patient values were determined from blood samples drawn from patients before and 20 minutes after ICM injections without reaction. There were consistent falls in total hemolytic complement (CH50) as well as C3, C4, and C5 in both the control group and the reactor group. These falls in the complement reached statistical significance only for CH50 in the reactor group. The results indicate that complement activation occurs after ICM injection. This activation can occur independent of clinical reactions; however, falls in total hemolytic complement and low hemolytic complement titers prior to ICM infusion may be related to the presence of anaphylactoid symptoms.", "PMID": 447947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8346", "title": "Human sensitization to Ganoderma antigen.", "content": "Continuous air sampling with a Hirst volumetric spore trap over 3 yr has identified basidiospores of Ganoderma applanatum, a bracket fungus, as the most numerous fungal spores in two southern Ontario locations. The particle size is small and the calculated total spore mass approximates that of the spores of Cladosporium and Alternaria. Extracts of Ganoderma applanatum bracket fungus and spores in w/v, 1:10 concentration were prepared after collection of samples of the fungus from local woods. Skin prick tests with the extracts were performed in 294 consecutive children and adults attending two chest/allergy clinics. Of these patients, 182 (61.9%) reacted to 1 or more of the common inhalant allergen extracts and 24 (8.2%) reacted to Ganoderma antigen. There was no consistent relationship between reactivity to Ganoderma antigen and any of the common inhaled allergens. IgE-dependent sensitization to Ganoderma was confirmed by the radioallergosorbent test (RAST). Rabbit antisera to Ganoderma antigen preparations did not appear to cross-react with preparations of the various clinically important allergens. The findings indicate that Ganoderma antigen is commonly encountered, can induce human sensitization, and has unique antigenicity among common allergens of clinical importance.", "contents": "Human sensitization to Ganoderma antigen. Continuous air sampling with a Hirst volumetric spore trap over 3 yr has identified basidiospores of Ganoderma applanatum, a bracket fungus, as the most numerous fungal spores in two southern Ontario locations. The particle size is small and the calculated total spore mass approximates that of the spores of Cladosporium and Alternaria. Extracts of Ganoderma applanatum bracket fungus and spores in w/v, 1:10 concentration were prepared after collection of samples of the fungus from local woods. Skin prick tests with the extracts were performed in 294 consecutive children and adults attending two chest/allergy clinics. Of these patients, 182 (61.9%) reacted to 1 or more of the common inhalant allergen extracts and 24 (8.2%) reacted to Ganoderma antigen. There was no consistent relationship between reactivity to Ganoderma antigen and any of the common inhaled allergens. IgE-dependent sensitization to Ganoderma was confirmed by the radioallergosorbent test (RAST). Rabbit antisera to Ganoderma antigen preparations did not appear to cross-react with preparations of the various clinically important allergens. The findings indicate that Ganoderma antigen is commonly encountered, can induce human sensitization, and has unique antigenicity among common allergens of clinical importance.", "PMID": 447950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8347", "title": "Incidence of bronchoconstriction due to aspirin, azo dyes, non-azo dyes, and preservatives in a population of perennial asthmatics.", "content": "Forty-five patients with moderately severe perennial bronchial asthma were challenged by ingestion of: acetylsalicyclic acid (ASA); 4 azo dyes (tartrazine, sunset yellow, amaranth, and ponceau); 3 non-azo dyes (erythrosine, brilliant blue, and indigotin); sodium benzoate (NaB); parahydroxybenzoic acid (OHBA); butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA); and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). A fall in forced expiratory volume is one second (FEV1) greater than 25% from baseline was considered positive. Seven patients who gave an unequivocal history of aspirin intolerance were not challenged with ASA; an additional 13 had positive open challenges to ASA, giving an apparent incidence of aspirin sensitivity of 20/45. The presence of nasal polyps, simusitis, or the regular use of corticosteroids, either singly or in combination, was not associated with an increased incidence of reactions to ASA. Significant bronchoconstriction to open challenges with agents other than ASA was less frequent. Positive open challenges to all substances except aspirin were followed by double-blind challenges which were positive in only 3 instances: 1 each with erythrosine, ponceau, and NaB/OHBA. Our findings confirm that ASA intolerance is relatively common but suggest on the other hand that reactions to dyes and preservatives are uncommon cause of clinically significant bronchoconstriction in moderately severe perennial asthmatics.", "contents": "Incidence of bronchoconstriction due to aspirin, azo dyes, non-azo dyes, and preservatives in a population of perennial asthmatics. Forty-five patients with moderately severe perennial bronchial asthma were challenged by ingestion of: acetylsalicyclic acid (ASA); 4 azo dyes (tartrazine, sunset yellow, amaranth, and ponceau); 3 non-azo dyes (erythrosine, brilliant blue, and indigotin); sodium benzoate (NaB); parahydroxybenzoic acid (OHBA); butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA); and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). A fall in forced expiratory volume is one second (FEV1) greater than 25% from baseline was considered positive. Seven patients who gave an unequivocal history of aspirin intolerance were not challenged with ASA; an additional 13 had positive open challenges to ASA, giving an apparent incidence of aspirin sensitivity of 20/45. The presence of nasal polyps, simusitis, or the regular use of corticosteroids, either singly or in combination, was not associated with an increased incidence of reactions to ASA. Significant bronchoconstriction to open challenges with agents other than ASA was less frequent. Positive open challenges to all substances except aspirin were followed by double-blind challenges which were positive in only 3 instances: 1 each with erythrosine, ponceau, and NaB/OHBA. Our findings confirm that ASA intolerance is relatively common but suggest on the other hand that reactions to dyes and preservatives are uncommon cause of clinically significant bronchoconstriction in moderately severe perennial asthmatics.", "PMID": 447949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8348", "title": "Cutaneous and nasal allergic responses in ragweed hay fever: lack of clinical and histopathologic correlations with late phase reactions.", "content": "The present study was designed to test the hypotheses that late cutaneous and nasal responses to allergen in patients with ragweed hay fever were human correlates of cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity, and that late responses in the nose and skin reflect similar pathogenesis. Forty-seven patients with ragweed hay fever were studied during a ragweed season for peripheral basophilia and clinical patterns reflecting late responses. Provocative nasal challenge, skin testing, and biopsy were carried out subsequently in 21 of the same patients during the winter months. Conclusions were as follows: (1) no histologic features distinguish positive from negative late skin reactions at 24 hr in patients with immediate wheal-and-flare responses; (2) cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity, i.e., tissue basophilia, is not a distinguishing feature of late skin responses in ragweed pollenosis; (3) seasonal peripheral basophilia was not found; (4) late responses in the nose were difficult to document objectively and did not correlate with late skin reactions; and (5) lymphocyte responses to antigen failed to correlate with late responses in either the nose or the skin.", "contents": "Cutaneous and nasal allergic responses in ragweed hay fever: lack of clinical and histopathologic correlations with late phase reactions. The present study was designed to test the hypotheses that late cutaneous and nasal responses to allergen in patients with ragweed hay fever were human correlates of cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity, and that late responses in the nose and skin reflect similar pathogenesis. Forty-seven patients with ragweed hay fever were studied during a ragweed season for peripheral basophilia and clinical patterns reflecting late responses. Provocative nasal challenge, skin testing, and biopsy were carried out subsequently in 21 of the same patients during the winter months. Conclusions were as follows: (1) no histologic features distinguish positive from negative late skin reactions at 24 hr in patients with immediate wheal-and-flare responses; (2) cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity, i.e., tissue basophilia, is not a distinguishing feature of late skin responses in ragweed pollenosis; (3) seasonal peripheral basophilia was not found; (4) late responses in the nose were difficult to document objectively and did not correlate with late skin reactions; and (5) lymphocyte responses to antigen failed to correlate with late responses in either the nose or the skin.", "PMID": 447953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8349", "title": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts (DLEs) with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. III. Characterization of the antigen-independent migration inhibition factor in DLEs as a neutrophil immobilizing factor.", "content": "In earlier evaluations of the agarose LMI assay as an in vitro test for studying the nature and mechanism of action of TF, we reported the existence of a component in human DLEs which caused noncytotoxic inhibition of the random migration of human PMNs. The LMI was not dependent on the stimulation of viable mononuclear leukocytes by antigen or mitogen to effect the release of mediators of cellular immunity such as LIF; rather, the LMI was promoted by the direct action of a preexisting component in DLEs on PMNs. We now present evidence that this \"antigen-independent\" LMI activity in DLE'S is similar to a NIF shown previously by Goetzl and co-workers to be present in acid extracts of leukocytes and to be released by phagocytosing PMNs. The comparison is drawn from several parameters: (1) cellular origin, (2) molecular weight, (3) target cell, (4) susceptibility to inactivation by heating or by incubation with pronase, trypsin, or chymotrypsin, and (5) ability to cause noncytotoxic inhibition of random migration or chemotaxis of PMNs.", "contents": "Effects of dialyzable leukocyte extracts (DLEs) with transfer factor activity on leukocyte migration in vitro. III. Characterization of the antigen-independent migration inhibition factor in DLEs as a neutrophil immobilizing factor. In earlier evaluations of the agarose LMI assay as an in vitro test for studying the nature and mechanism of action of TF, we reported the existence of a component in human DLEs which caused noncytotoxic inhibition of the random migration of human PMNs. The LMI was not dependent on the stimulation of viable mononuclear leukocytes by antigen or mitogen to effect the release of mediators of cellular immunity such as LIF; rather, the LMI was promoted by the direct action of a preexisting component in DLEs on PMNs. We now present evidence that this \"antigen-independent\" LMI activity in DLE'S is similar to a NIF shown previously by Goetzl and co-workers to be present in acid extracts of leukocytes and to be released by phagocytosing PMNs. The comparison is drawn from several parameters: (1) cellular origin, (2) molecular weight, (3) target cell, (4) susceptibility to inactivation by heating or by incubation with pronase, trypsin, or chymotrypsin, and (5) ability to cause noncytotoxic inhibition of random migration or chemotaxis of PMNs.", "PMID": 447952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8350", "title": "Social determinants in food selection.", "content": "Responses of 112 low-income homemakers to questions about the food use frequency, availability, and social determinants (convenience, price, and prestige) of fifty-two food items are reported. Results indicate that foods have clear meaning profiles that can be measured on attitudinal scales. Bivariate analysis was used to illustrate the interrelationships between food-use frequency and social determinants. Significant correlations were found between food use and convenience, price, prestige, and availability for fourteen of the fifty-two food items studied.", "contents": "Social determinants in food selection. Responses of 112 low-income homemakers to questions about the food use frequency, availability, and social determinants (convenience, price, and prestige) of fifty-two food items are reported. Results indicate that foods have clear meaning profiles that can be measured on attitudinal scales. Bivariate analysis was used to illustrate the interrelationships between food-use frequency and social determinants. Significant correlations were found between food use and convenience, price, prestige, and availability for fourteen of the fifty-two food items studied.", "PMID": 447967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8351", "title": "Menu planning competencies in administrative dietetic practice. I. The methodology.", "content": "This research was intended to develop a methodology to analyze competencies in one area of administrative dietetic practice--menu planning. Five basic competencies, with sub-competencies, in menu planning were drawn from previous research. To produce descriptive statements for each sub-competency, taped interviews were held with twenty practitioners to ascertain knowledge, attitudes, and skills required in menu planning. The original 607 responses were reduced to ninety-two by eliminating duplication and ranking them by importance. These were then expressed in appropriate behavioral terminology and validated by an educational consultant. The competency statements and sub-competencies with the ninety-two descriptors were incorporated into a questionnaire submitted to a nationwide sample of hospital administrative and generalist dietitians for further validation.", "contents": "Menu planning competencies in administrative dietetic practice. I. The methodology. This research was intended to develop a methodology to analyze competencies in one area of administrative dietetic practice--menu planning. Five basic competencies, with sub-competencies, in menu planning were drawn from previous research. To produce descriptive statements for each sub-competency, taped interviews were held with twenty practitioners to ascertain knowledge, attitudes, and skills required in menu planning. The original 607 responses were reduced to ninety-two by eliminating duplication and ranking them by importance. These were then expressed in appropriate behavioral terminology and validated by an educational consultant. The competency statements and sub-competencies with the ninety-two descriptors were incorporated into a questionnaire submitted to a nationwide sample of hospital administrative and generalist dietitians for further validation.", "PMID": 447968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8352", "title": "Menu planning competencies in administrative dietetic practice. II. Practitioners' ratings of competence.", "content": "A nationwide sample of administrative and generalist dietitians rated five competencies with sub-competencies and ninety-two descriptors related to menu planning. Each item was rated numerically for importance and frequency of time consideration. Data were grouped according to three levels of practitioner experience. It was concluded that an effective methodology was developed for analyzing competencies for dietetic practice.", "contents": "Menu planning competencies in administrative dietetic practice. II. Practitioners' ratings of competence. A nationwide sample of administrative and generalist dietitians rated five competencies with sub-competencies and ninety-two descriptors related to menu planning. Each item was rated numerically for importance and frequency of time consideration. Data were grouped according to three levels of practitioner experience. It was concluded that an effective methodology was developed for analyzing competencies for dietetic practice.", "PMID": 447969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8353", "title": "Frequency of selection of food groups by low-income families in southwestern Mississippi.", "content": "Food resources and frequency of food use of 1,000 households in Claiborne County in southwestern Mississippi were studied and related to income and educational level of the family heads. Income and educational levels of the family heads were much lower than the national average. The data on food frequency use indicated that the meal patterns of these households could not provide sufficient nutrients for individual family members. Income and educational levels of the family heads correlated highly with food frequency scores. The households with higher incomes and more education had better food consumption patterns than those with lower incomes and less education. However, income had more effect on low nutrient intake than education.", "contents": "Frequency of selection of food groups by low-income families in southwestern Mississippi. Food resources and frequency of food use of 1,000 households in Claiborne County in southwestern Mississippi were studied and related to income and educational level of the family heads. Income and educational levels of the family heads were much lower than the national average. The data on food frequency use indicated that the meal patterns of these households could not provide sufficient nutrients for individual family members. Income and educational levels of the family heads correlated highly with food frequency scores. The households with higher incomes and more education had better food consumption patterns than those with lower incomes and less education. However, income had more effect on low nutrient intake than education.", "PMID": 447971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8354", "title": "Nutrient estimates from computerized questionnaires vs. 24-hr. recall interviews.", "content": "A computerized nutritional assessment service used by dentists was investigated. Daily nutrient intake of forty-six adult subjects was estimated from replies to a computerized food frequency questionnaire and the results compared with the average nutrient intakes of the same individuals obtained during five 24-hr. dietary recall interviews. Although the two methods produced essentially the same mean for carbohydrate intake and a minimal difference in the mean caloric values, mean estimates of the other nutrients were 6 to 88 per cent greater with the computerized data than via the dietary recalls. The dietary assessment service included unwarranted recommendations for vitamin and mineral supplementation.", "contents": "Nutrient estimates from computerized questionnaires vs. 24-hr. recall interviews. A computerized nutritional assessment service used by dentists was investigated. Daily nutrient intake of forty-six adult subjects was estimated from replies to a computerized food frequency questionnaire and the results compared with the average nutrient intakes of the same individuals obtained during five 24-hr. dietary recall interviews. Although the two methods produced essentially the same mean for carbohydrate intake and a minimal difference in the mean caloric values, mean estimates of the other nutrients were 6 to 88 per cent greater with the computerized data than via the dietary recalls. The dietary assessment service included unwarranted recommendations for vitamin and mineral supplementation.", "PMID": 447970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8355", "title": "Attitudes and food habits--a review.", "content": "The inadequacy of a definition of attitudinal terms has complicated the interpretation of many food habit studies. This review has focused on the multidimensional character of the word \"attitude\" as an aid to gaining insight into food habit development and change. The five definitional categories presented (attitudes as preferences, as overt food behavior, as willingness or ability to change, as agreement among family members, and as complexity of meanings) do not preclude other definitions. Knowledge of attitude studies can foster understanding of the link between nutritional knowledge and actual behavior, as well as help practitioners to be more effective in formulating objectives and developing techniques for nutrition education. The various dimensions and meanings of attitudes indicate the need for continued research to clarify the effect of well defined attitude variables on food habits.", "contents": "Attitudes and food habits--a review. The inadequacy of a definition of attitudinal terms has complicated the interpretation of many food habit studies. This review has focused on the multidimensional character of the word \"attitude\" as an aid to gaining insight into food habit development and change. The five definitional categories presented (attitudes as preferences, as overt food behavior, as willingness or ability to change, as agreement among family members, and as complexity of meanings) do not preclude other definitions. Knowledge of attitude studies can foster understanding of the link between nutritional knowledge and actual behavior, as well as help practitioners to be more effective in formulating objectives and developing techniques for nutrition education. The various dimensions and meanings of attitudes indicate the need for continued research to clarify the effect of well defined attitude variables on food habits.", "PMID": 447975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8356", "title": "Influence of oral contraceptives on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status.", "content": "The overall purpose of this study was to determine the influence of oral contraceptive agents on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status of young women by measurement of plasma and whole blood ascorbate and serum triglycerides on three days during one oral contraceptive or menstrual cycle. The subjects' food intake records were evaluated to determine the relationship between dietary intake and ascorbic acid blood levels. Results indicate that, with adequate intake of ascorbic acid, there in no threat to ascorbic acid status as a result of using oral contraceptives for periods of six months to seven years. Although bordering on being significant, the serum triglycerides did not appear to be alarmingly elevated.", "contents": "Influence of oral contraceptives on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status. The overall purpose of this study was to determine the influence of oral contraceptive agents on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status of young women by measurement of plasma and whole blood ascorbate and serum triglycerides on three days during one oral contraceptive or menstrual cycle. The subjects' food intake records were evaluated to determine the relationship between dietary intake and ascorbic acid blood levels. Results indicate that, with adequate intake of ascorbic acid, there in no threat to ascorbic acid status as a result of using oral contraceptives for periods of six months to seven years. Although bordering on being significant, the serum triglycerides did not appear to be alarmingly elevated.", "PMID": 447976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8357", "title": "Zinc and copper in self-selected diets.", "content": "Levels of zinc and copper in the self-selected diets of twenty-two men and women were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Sixty-eight per cent of the subjects consumed less than two-thirds of the recommended allowance for zinc (15 mg). Eighty-one per cent consumed less than two-thirds of the suggested level of copper (2.0 mg). Average daily intake of protein exceeded the recommended allowance. However, the mean zinc:calorie ratio for those subjects was only 4.19 mg. per 1,000 kcal. Using the recommended allowances for zinc and for energy, the zinc:calorie ratio would be 6.5 mg. per 1,000 kcal. For copper, the suggested nutrient density is 0.85 mg. per 1,000 kcal vs. the 0.50 mg. per 1,000 kcal observed in this study. These metallo:calorie ratios indicate that the nutrient density of these two trace elements in the diet is low and that diets supplying adequate amounts of energy and protein do not guarantee adequate levels of zinc and copper.", "contents": "Zinc and copper in self-selected diets. Levels of zinc and copper in the self-selected diets of twenty-two men and women were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Sixty-eight per cent of the subjects consumed less than two-thirds of the recommended allowance for zinc (15 mg). Eighty-one per cent consumed less than two-thirds of the suggested level of copper (2.0 mg). Average daily intake of protein exceeded the recommended allowance. However, the mean zinc:calorie ratio for those subjects was only 4.19 mg. per 1,000 kcal. Using the recommended allowances for zinc and for energy, the zinc:calorie ratio would be 6.5 mg. per 1,000 kcal. For copper, the suggested nutrient density is 0.85 mg. per 1,000 kcal vs. the 0.50 mg. per 1,000 kcal observed in this study. These metallo:calorie ratios indicate that the nutrient density of these two trace elements in the diet is low and that diets supplying adequate amounts of energy and protein do not guarantee adequate levels of zinc and copper.", "PMID": 447977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8358", "title": "Prevalence of the \"Chinese restaurant syndrome\".", "content": "A questionnaire survey attempted to define the prevalence of symptoms characteristic of the \"Chinese restaurant syndrome\" (CRS) in the general adult population. Forty-three per cent of 3,222 respondents associated unpleasant symptoms with specific foods and eating environments; however, only 1 to 2 per cent reported symptoms characteristic of the CRS, and only 0.19 per cent associated these characteristic symptoms with consumption of Chinese food. Most respondents who were \"aware\" of the syndrome and most of those who believed they had experienced it reported non-specific symptoms. If the word \"syndrome\" is to be used to describe symptoms attributed to specific food ingredients, the limits of the \"syndrome\" must be specified.", "contents": "Prevalence of the \"Chinese restaurant syndrome\". A questionnaire survey attempted to define the prevalence of symptoms characteristic of the \"Chinese restaurant syndrome\" (CRS) in the general adult population. Forty-three per cent of 3,222 respondents associated unpleasant symptoms with specific foods and eating environments; however, only 1 to 2 per cent reported symptoms characteristic of the CRS, and only 0.19 per cent associated these characteristic symptoms with consumption of Chinese food. Most respondents who were \"aware\" of the syndrome and most of those who believed they had experienced it reported non-specific symptoms. If the word \"syndrome\" is to be used to describe symptoms attributed to specific food ingredients, the limits of the \"syndrome\" must be specified.", "PMID": 447978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8359", "title": "Composition of traditional Hopi foods.", "content": "Foods produced by the modern Hopi Indians and prepared in traditional ways are generally good sources of essential minerals, especially if plant ash or native crude salt are added in preparation. The predominant whole grain, mature maize-corn products are relatively high in phytate, which may interfere with absorption of some of the minerals present. The use of culinary ash may have played a critical role in maintenance of nutritional health in the presence of interfering substances in the diet, especially if animal foods were in limited supply.", "contents": "Composition of traditional Hopi foods. Foods produced by the modern Hopi Indians and prepared in traditional ways are generally good sources of essential minerals, especially if plant ash or native crude salt are added in preparation. The predominant whole grain, mature maize-corn products are relatively high in phytate, which may interfere with absorption of some of the minerals present. The use of culinary ash may have played a critical role in maintenance of nutritional health in the presence of interfering substances in the diet, especially if animal foods were in limited supply.", "PMID": 447979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8360", "title": "Carbohydrate loading--a review.", "content": "The purpose of carbohydrate loading is to supersaturate with glycogen the muscles to be used in competition. The competition should be longer than 30 to 60 min. to fully utilize the glycogen stores. An exhausting exercise is first performed to deplete the glycogen stores, and a high-fat, high-protein diet is followed for three days to keep the glycogen stores low. After depletion of the muscles, a high-carbohydrate diet is followed for two to three days to restore and supersaturate the muscles with glycogen. The most important point to impress on the athlete is the nutritional adequacy of the entire diet. Though the technique of carbohydrate loading is a dietary manipulation emphasizing the intake of carbohydrate, the diet can be adequate with sound dietary planning.", "contents": "Carbohydrate loading--a review. The purpose of carbohydrate loading is to supersaturate with glycogen the muscles to be used in competition. The competition should be longer than 30 to 60 min. to fully utilize the glycogen stores. An exhausting exercise is first performed to deplete the glycogen stores, and a high-fat, high-protein diet is followed for three days to keep the glycogen stores low. After depletion of the muscles, a high-carbohydrate diet is followed for two to three days to restore and supersaturate the muscles with glycogen. The most important point to impress on the athlete is the nutritional adequacy of the entire diet. Though the technique of carbohydrate loading is a dietary manipulation emphasizing the intake of carbohydrate, the diet can be adequate with sound dietary planning.", "PMID": 447980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8361", "title": "Acohol use among older persons: findings from a Western New York State general population survey.", "content": "This report on the drinking patterns of older persons is based upon a cross-sectional probability sample of 1,041 adults aged 18 years or older living in Erie and Niagara Counties in Western New York State. The rates of drinking, heavy drinking, and alcohol-related problems were considerably lower among persons aged 60 or older than among those aged 50--59 (approaching old age), or among those aged 18--49 (the younger comparison group). Although heavy drinking was almost nonexistent among the elderly women, sizable proportions of the older men (e.g., about a quarter of the men in the 60--69 age group) were heavy drinkers. Previous reports concluding that the stresses of aging, such as widowhood and retirement, are associated with increased problem drinking were not confirmed in this study. More definitive, longitudinal research is needed to develop a better understanding of the relationships between drinking patterns and the aging process.", "contents": "Acohol use among older persons: findings from a Western New York State general population survey. This report on the drinking patterns of older persons is based upon a cross-sectional probability sample of 1,041 adults aged 18 years or older living in Erie and Niagara Counties in Western New York State. The rates of drinking, heavy drinking, and alcohol-related problems were considerably lower among persons aged 60 or older than among those aged 50--59 (approaching old age), or among those aged 18--49 (the younger comparison group). Although heavy drinking was almost nonexistent among the elderly women, sizable proportions of the older men (e.g., about a quarter of the men in the 60--69 age group) were heavy drinkers. Previous reports concluding that the stresses of aging, such as widowhood and retirement, are associated with increased problem drinking were not confirmed in this study. More definitive, longitudinal research is needed to develop a better understanding of the relationships between drinking patterns and the aging process.", "PMID": 447985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8362", "title": "Survival in the elderly with acute leukemia.", "content": "The natural history of acute leukemia in the elderly is not well understood. There is disagreement about the value of treatment other than by supportive measures. In this study, the survival predictive power of 9 variables was analyzed in 103 patients aged 70 or older for whom a bone-marrow cytologic diagnosis of acute leukemia had been made at a referral hospital during the 30-year period, 1947--1976. When given, treatment was uniformly conservative. Blood leukocyte and platelet counts and hematocrit values at the time of diagnosis, sex, treatment, and the calendar year of diagnosis were significant (P less than 0.01) predictors of survival duration. Initial hematologic measurements, presumably reflecting the degree of leukemic cell infiltration of the bone marrow, were the strongest predictors of survival, whereas leukemic cell type had no predictive power. Survival increased significantly (P less than 0.01) during the 30-year period of the study, possibly more attributable to improved supportive care than to specific antileukemic therapy. Apparently survival is at least partly determined at the time of diagnosis, and conservative therapy often may be beneficial rather than detrimental.", "contents": "Survival in the elderly with acute leukemia. The natural history of acute leukemia in the elderly is not well understood. There is disagreement about the value of treatment other than by supportive measures. In this study, the survival predictive power of 9 variables was analyzed in 103 patients aged 70 or older for whom a bone-marrow cytologic diagnosis of acute leukemia had been made at a referral hospital during the 30-year period, 1947--1976. When given, treatment was uniformly conservative. Blood leukocyte and platelet counts and hematocrit values at the time of diagnosis, sex, treatment, and the calendar year of diagnosis were significant (P less than 0.01) predictors of survival duration. Initial hematologic measurements, presumably reflecting the degree of leukemic cell infiltration of the bone marrow, were the strongest predictors of survival, whereas leukemic cell type had no predictive power. Survival increased significantly (P less than 0.01) during the 30-year period of the study, possibly more attributable to improved supportive care than to specific antileukemic therapy. Apparently survival is at least partly determined at the time of diagnosis, and conservative therapy often may be beneficial rather than detrimental.", "PMID": 447984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8363", "title": "The type A (coronary-prone) behavior pattern, aging, and mortality.", "content": "Young and middle-aged persons displaying the Type A (coronary-prone) behavior pattern have been shown repeatedly to be at substantially increased risk of coronary heart disease. A review of recent empirical research regarding adaptability and survival among the elderly suggests the hypothesis that the clinical significance of Type A behavior may shift radically in old age. Thus, compared to Type B (not coronary-prone) subjects. Type As may be at lesser rather than greater risk of impairment and death.", "contents": "The type A (coronary-prone) behavior pattern, aging, and mortality. Young and middle-aged persons displaying the Type A (coronary-prone) behavior pattern have been shown repeatedly to be at substantially increased risk of coronary heart disease. A review of recent empirical research regarding adaptability and survival among the elderly suggests the hypothesis that the clinical significance of Type A behavior may shift radically in old age. Thus, compared to Type B (not coronary-prone) subjects. Type As may be at lesser rather than greater risk of impairment and death.", "PMID": 447986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8364", "title": "Modern ideas about organization of services for elderly patients in hospitals and nursing homes in the Netherlands.", "content": "The system of nursing homes in the Netherlands, and the advantages of the new department for geriatric assessment in the Municipal Hospital in Amsterdam are discussed. Included are admission and discharge data on 694 patients in the Geriatric Department in 1977, and also a list of the more common diagnoses, classified according to body system and disease.", "contents": "Modern ideas about organization of services for elderly patients in hospitals and nursing homes in the Netherlands. The system of nursing homes in the Netherlands, and the advantages of the new department for geriatric assessment in the Municipal Hospital in Amsterdam are discussed. Included are admission and discharge data on 694 patients in the Geriatric Department in 1977, and also a list of the more common diagnoses, classified according to body system and disease.", "PMID": 447987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8365", "title": "The misplaced-objects task: a brief test for memory dysfunction in the aged.", "content": "A brief, simple test for memory dysfunction in the aged is presented. Materials for the test consist of: 1) a board on which the cross-section of a seven-room house is imprinted, and 2) representations of 10 objects frequently misplaced in the home (e.g., keys). The task of the subject is to place the objects in rooms on the board and, after an interval of 5--30 minutes, to recall the location of each object. The measure is appropriate for a broad range of aged subjects, since performance requirements are minimal and readily apparent. The task has obvious face validity, which is essential for maintaining appropriate motivation in many aged subjects. Discriminate validity was demonstrated in a study in which significantly fewer objects were recalled by 60 aged persons with memory impairment (-x = 6.0) than by 44 unimpaired aged persons (-x = 8.9) or 63 young normal persons (-x = 9.9). Satisfactory test-retest reliability was demonstrated by a correlation of .84 between performances on two consecutive days in a subgroup of 20 impaired patients. Subjects appeared to enjoy the game-like structure of the test and clearly were not threatened by the test procedures. Suggestions are offered for further development of the measure.", "contents": "The misplaced-objects task: a brief test for memory dysfunction in the aged. A brief, simple test for memory dysfunction in the aged is presented. Materials for the test consist of: 1) a board on which the cross-section of a seven-room house is imprinted, and 2) representations of 10 objects frequently misplaced in the home (e.g., keys). The task of the subject is to place the objects in rooms on the board and, after an interval of 5--30 minutes, to recall the location of each object. The measure is appropriate for a broad range of aged subjects, since performance requirements are minimal and readily apparent. The task has obvious face validity, which is essential for maintaining appropriate motivation in many aged subjects. Discriminate validity was demonstrated in a study in which significantly fewer objects were recalled by 60 aged persons with memory impairment (-x = 6.0) than by 44 unimpaired aged persons (-x = 8.9) or 63 young normal persons (-x = 9.9). Satisfactory test-retest reliability was demonstrated by a correlation of .84 between performances on two consecutive days in a subgroup of 20 impaired patients. Subjects appeared to enjoy the game-like structure of the test and clearly were not threatened by the test procedures. Suggestions are offered for further development of the measure.", "PMID": 447991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8366", "title": "Health-seeking behavior and social networks of the aged living in single-room occupancy hotels.", "content": "The elderly who reside in single-room occupancy (SRO) hotels often have been depicted as \"isolates,\" lacking the interest or ability to engage primary or secondary support systems. This characterization has not enhanced understanding of how the SRO aged are able to survive in the community. With the use of network analysis techniques, this study demonstrates the inaccuracy of the assertion that these old persons lack significant social support. The data pointed to differences in network size, complexity, intensity, connectedness, and directionality in relation to varying degrees of physical and psychiatric health.", "contents": "Health-seeking behavior and social networks of the aged living in single-room occupancy hotels. The elderly who reside in single-room occupancy (SRO) hotels often have been depicted as \"isolates,\" lacking the interest or ability to engage primary or secondary support systems. This characterization has not enhanced understanding of how the SRO aged are able to survive in the community. With the use of network analysis techniques, this study demonstrates the inaccuracy of the assertion that these old persons lack significant social support. The data pointed to differences in network size, complexity, intensity, connectedness, and directionality in relation to varying degrees of physical and psychiatric health.", "PMID": 447989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8367", "title": "An alternative model in geriatric care.", "content": "An analysis is presented of one long-term care facility's attempt to develop a comprehensive geriatric program including care of the patient in a hospital, a skilled nursing home, a day hospital, or a clinic for care of the ambulatory aged. The goal was to raise issues for debate and discussion, especially in terms of the evolving role of medical directors in long-term care. The need for group professionalism in cooperation with the Board of citizens in community geriatric practice is emphasized.", "contents": "An alternative model in geriatric care. An analysis is presented of one long-term care facility's attempt to develop a comprehensive geriatric program including care of the patient in a hospital, a skilled nursing home, a day hospital, or a clinic for care of the ambulatory aged. The goal was to raise issues for debate and discussion, especially in terms of the evolving role of medical directors in long-term care. The need for group professionalism in cooperation with the Board of citizens in community geriatric practice is emphasized.", "PMID": 447990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8368", "title": "Skin oxygen tension as a function of imposed skin pressure: implication for decubitus ulcer formation.", "content": "Pressure is a crucial factor in the formation of decubitus ulcers. To elucidate the effect of imposed skin pressure, a new cutaneous oxygen sensor was used to measure the skin oxygen tension under increasing pressure upon skin tissue at \"hard sites\" (bony prominences) and at \"soft sites\" (muscle-padded areas). At hard sites the skin oxygen tension fell rapidly under increasing pressure (y = 90.9--0.39. X; r = 0.98) from an initial value of 86.4 +/- 10.6 to 20.2 +/- 12.1 mm Hg under an imposed skin pressure load of 175 gm/cm 2. At soft sites a pressure load of 175 gm/cm 2 decreased the skin oxygen tension only from 82.9 +/- 5.8 to 71.4 +/- 10.0 mm Hg. These results may explain why hard sites (bony prominences) are preferential areas for decubitus ulcer formation.", "contents": "Skin oxygen tension as a function of imposed skin pressure: implication for decubitus ulcer formation. Pressure is a crucial factor in the formation of decubitus ulcers. To elucidate the effect of imposed skin pressure, a new cutaneous oxygen sensor was used to measure the skin oxygen tension under increasing pressure upon skin tissue at \"hard sites\" (bony prominences) and at \"soft sites\" (muscle-padded areas). At hard sites the skin oxygen tension fell rapidly under increasing pressure (y = 90.9--0.39. X; r = 0.98) from an initial value of 86.4 +/- 10.6 to 20.2 +/- 12.1 mm Hg under an imposed skin pressure load of 175 gm/cm 2. At soft sites a pressure load of 175 gm/cm 2 decreased the skin oxygen tension only from 82.9 +/- 5.8 to 71.4 +/- 10.0 mm Hg. These results may explain why hard sites (bony prominences) are preferential areas for decubitus ulcer formation.", "PMID": 447992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8369", "title": "Cancer in the aged: an autopsy study of 940 cancer patients.", "content": "In an autopsy study of 940 elderly cancer patients, 1,030 cancers were identified. The prevalence rate for overall cancer declined after age 85 in men and after age 75 in women. The chief sites of major cancers were the stomach, lung, esophagus, liver, and pancreas, in that order. Incidental cancers (chiefly of the prostate, thyroid, and colon) were found more often in patients over 80 years old. For multiple primary cancers, the prevalence rate was relatively constant until the age of 70, when it rose to a peak in the 80--84 age group before declining to the original level.", "contents": "Cancer in the aged: an autopsy study of 940 cancer patients. In an autopsy study of 940 elderly cancer patients, 1,030 cancers were identified. The prevalence rate for overall cancer declined after age 85 in men and after age 75 in women. The chief sites of major cancers were the stomach, lung, esophagus, liver, and pancreas, in that order. Incidental cancers (chiefly of the prostate, thyroid, and colon) were found more often in patients over 80 years old. For multiple primary cancers, the prevalence rate was relatively constant until the age of 70, when it rose to a peak in the 80--84 age group before declining to the original level.", "PMID": 447994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8370", "title": "A structural model of functional capacity in the aged.", "content": "The core problem in geriatrics is the continuous loss of adaptive capacity by bones, joints, brain, heart and lungs. Thus many old persons cannot take care of themselves any longer in matters of food, safety, body temperature and hygiene, the basic functions for human independence. Geriatricians agree about the basic functions that an elderly person should be able to perform. Only with such criteria can goals be defined more accurately and comparisons made of therapeutic efforts, leading to a higher level of efficiency in therapy, prognosis and care. A theoretical framework is proposed which may serve as a model for assessment of functional capacity in the aged patient. The model (hierarchic structure) has four components: household activities, mobility, activities of daily living, and function of the autonomic nervous system. No component covers more than five items. There is great need for studies on an international level so that assessments and treatments of elderly patients can be compared.", "contents": "A structural model of functional capacity in the aged. The core problem in geriatrics is the continuous loss of adaptive capacity by bones, joints, brain, heart and lungs. Thus many old persons cannot take care of themselves any longer in matters of food, safety, body temperature and hygiene, the basic functions for human independence. Geriatricians agree about the basic functions that an elderly person should be able to perform. Only with such criteria can goals be defined more accurately and comparisons made of therapeutic efforts, leading to a higher level of efficiency in therapy, prognosis and care. A theoretical framework is proposed which may serve as a model for assessment of functional capacity in the aged patient. The model (hierarchic structure) has four components: household activities, mobility, activities of daily living, and function of the autonomic nervous system. No component covers more than five items. There is great need for studies on an international level so that assessments and treatments of elderly patients can be compared.", "PMID": 447995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8371", "title": "Topical application of povidone-iodine in the management of decubitus and stasis ulcers.", "content": "The efficacy of topical applications of povidone-iodine (Betadine solution and ointment) for the control of infection associated with decubitus and stasis ulcers was evaluated in 18 male outpatients (age range, 33--68 years). Dressings were changed twice daily over a period of 42 days. Statistically significant improvement was noted in the following signs and symptoms: edema, pain, erythema, ulcer size, and ulcer depth. All patients experienced some degree of symptomatic relief and clinical improvement within two weeks after starting therapy. At the end of the study, 67 percent of the ulcers were clinically cured and 33 percent showed improvement. Acceptance by the patients was excellent, with no reported side effects or sensitization reactions. Povidone-iodine used in a daily regimen of ulcer care can reduce the level of infection and promote healing.", "contents": "Topical application of povidone-iodine in the management of decubitus and stasis ulcers. The efficacy of topical applications of povidone-iodine (Betadine solution and ointment) for the control of infection associated with decubitus and stasis ulcers was evaluated in 18 male outpatients (age range, 33--68 years). Dressings were changed twice daily over a period of 42 days. Statistically significant improvement was noted in the following signs and symptoms: edema, pain, erythema, ulcer size, and ulcer depth. All patients experienced some degree of symptomatic relief and clinical improvement within two weeks after starting therapy. At the end of the study, 67 percent of the ulcers were clinically cured and 33 percent showed improvement. Acceptance by the patients was excellent, with no reported side effects or sensitization reactions. Povidone-iodine used in a daily regimen of ulcer care can reduce the level of infection and promote healing.", "PMID": 447993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8372", "title": "The corneal reflex in elderly patients.", "content": "The corneal reflex was absent in 23.5 percent of 115 elderly patients, particularly in those with cerebrovascular disease. However, it was also absent in many of the patients without neurologic disease. Therefore, physicians should not attach too much importance to lack of the corneal reflex in elderly persons.", "contents": "The corneal reflex in elderly patients. The corneal reflex was absent in 23.5 percent of 115 elderly patients, particularly in those with cerebrovascular disease. However, it was also absent in many of the patients without neurologic disease. Therefore, physicians should not attach too much importance to lack of the corneal reflex in elderly persons.", "PMID": 447996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8373", "title": "Palatal sensitivity to touch: correlation with age.", "content": "In 100 persons whose ages ranged from 20 to 89 years, palatal sensitivity to touch (by air current) was measured. Sensitivity diminished progressively with age.", "contents": "Palatal sensitivity to touch: correlation with age. In 100 persons whose ages ranged from 20 to 89 years, palatal sensitivity to touch (by air current) was measured. Sensitivity diminished progressively with age.", "PMID": 447997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8374", "title": "Toward a comprehensive geriatric educational experience.", "content": "A description of the goals and the accomplishments of a program in geriatric education and training is presented. Emphasis is laid on the potential role of departments of family and community medicine, even though vast resources may not be available. Such a program is of great importance, but it must be viewed as only the first step in the development of a comprehensive training model for either a school of medicine or a residency program in primary care. Upon graduation in Family Medicine, residents should not only be aware of the specific health needs of the elderly, but also be clinically competent to meet those needs.", "contents": "Toward a comprehensive geriatric educational experience. A description of the goals and the accomplishments of a program in geriatric education and training is presented. Emphasis is laid on the potential role of departments of family and community medicine, even though vast resources may not be available. Such a program is of great importance, but it must be viewed as only the first step in the development of a comprehensive training model for either a school of medicine or a residency program in primary care. Upon graduation in Family Medicine, residents should not only be aware of the specific health needs of the elderly, but also be clinically competent to meet those needs.", "PMID": 447998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8375", "title": "Rehabilitation in the extended care facility.", "content": "Rehabilitation can be readily carried out in an extended care facility. A technique is presented for accomplishing this objective by organizing existing personnel within the facility into a rehabilitation team which is goal-oriented. The Barthel Index serves as an objective measurement of the patient's progress. By use of this approach, significant numbers of patients with stroke, orthopedic disorders and other neuromusculoskeletal impairments can be returned to their previous living situations in a relatively short period, and at minimal cost.", "contents": "Rehabilitation in the extended care facility. Rehabilitation can be readily carried out in an extended care facility. A technique is presented for accomplishing this objective by organizing existing personnel within the facility into a rehabilitation team which is goal-oriented. The Barthel Index serves as an objective measurement of the patient's progress. By use of this approach, significant numbers of patients with stroke, orthopedic disorders and other neuromusculoskeletal impairments can be returned to their previous living situations in a relatively short period, and at minimal cost.", "PMID": 447999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8376", "title": "Perception of poor health in the healthy older adult.", "content": "A survey of 977 community subjects aged 65 or older identified 719 of them as not impaired in physical health. Of these, 104 (14 percent) perceived their physical status to be poor, whereas 615 (86 percent) accurately perceived it to be unimpaired. There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to age, sex, race, social class, living arrangements and number of drugs used. The physically healthy elderly who perceived their physical status to be poor were more depressed, more hypochondriacal, and more dissatisfied with life. They tended to complain of multiple symptoms; activities of daily living were decreased, and they were more likely to visit their doctor frequently during the year (analysis controlled for physical health in each case). Mental health was slightly but significantly more impaired in these subjects; nevertheless, they were more likely to seek the help of a trained counselor. The findings suggest that a self-perception of poor health among the physically healthy elderly may represent a generalized request for attention from trained personnel in the social environment.", "contents": "Perception of poor health in the healthy older adult. A survey of 977 community subjects aged 65 or older identified 719 of them as not impaired in physical health. Of these, 104 (14 percent) perceived their physical status to be poor, whereas 615 (86 percent) accurately perceived it to be unimpaired. There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to age, sex, race, social class, living arrangements and number of drugs used. The physically healthy elderly who perceived their physical status to be poor were more depressed, more hypochondriacal, and more dissatisfied with life. They tended to complain of multiple symptoms; activities of daily living were decreased, and they were more likely to visit their doctor frequently during the year (analysis controlled for physical health in each case). Mental health was slightly but significantly more impaired in these subjects; nevertheless, they were more likely to seek the help of a trained counselor. The findings suggest that a self-perception of poor health among the physically healthy elderly may represent a generalized request for attention from trained personnel in the social environment.", "PMID": 448000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8377", "title": "Mechanism of gas transport through contact lenses.", "content": "The transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide through contact lenses is important for maintaining normal corneal physiology. Gas permeation through a lens depends on the solubility and the diffusivity of the lens for that gas. Gases pass through spaces between the flexible polymer segments in plastics and rubbers. Gases diffuse through the water of hydration in hydrogel lenses, and gas permeation increases exponentially with hydration. The driving force behind gas permeation is the difference in partial pressure of the gas across the lens. The amount of gas passing through a given lens, in unit time, doubles by halving the lens thickness. Carbon dioxide permeation through any lens is several times greater than is oxygen permeation through that lens. Thus, it suffices to know the oxygen permeability in order to predict the physiological performance of a lens. The oxygen permeability coefficients of representative hard, hydrogel, and silicone rubber lenses are tabulated for easy reference.", "contents": "Mechanism of gas transport through contact lenses. The transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide through contact lenses is important for maintaining normal corneal physiology. Gas permeation through a lens depends on the solubility and the diffusivity of the lens for that gas. Gases pass through spaces between the flexible polymer segments in plastics and rubbers. Gases diffuse through the water of hydration in hydrogel lenses, and gas permeation increases exponentially with hydration. The driving force behind gas permeation is the difference in partial pressure of the gas across the lens. The amount of gas passing through a given lens, in unit time, doubles by halving the lens thickness. Carbon dioxide permeation through any lens is several times greater than is oxygen permeation through that lens. Thus, it suffices to know the oxygen permeability in order to predict the physiological performance of a lens. The oxygen permeability coefficients of representative hard, hydrogel, and silicone rubber lenses are tabulated for easy reference.", "PMID": 448005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8378", "title": "Clinical evaluation of FDA approved toric hydrophilic soft contact lenses (Part I).", "content": "Three toric hydrogel contact lenses have been approved by the FDA, Durasoft TT, Hydromarc, and Hydrocurve II. These all incorporate prism ballast as the major axis stabilizing feature, but differ in diameter and placement of the cylinder. Correct cylinder axis positioning and maintenance of meridional stability are essential to fitting success.", "contents": "Clinical evaluation of FDA approved toric hydrophilic soft contact lenses (Part I). Three toric hydrogel contact lenses have been approved by the FDA, Durasoft TT, Hydromarc, and Hydrocurve II. These all incorporate prism ballast as the major axis stabilizing feature, but differ in diameter and placement of the cylinder. Correct cylinder axis positioning and maintenance of meridional stability are essential to fitting success.", "PMID": 448006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8379", "title": "Basic considerations in fitting hydrogel lenses.", "content": "Recommended guidelines for evaluating the performance of hydrogel lenses are developed based upon the physiological reponse of the cornea.", "contents": "Basic considerations in fitting hydrogel lenses. Recommended guidelines for evaluating the performance of hydrogel lenses are developed based upon the physiological reponse of the cornea.", "PMID": 448007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8380", "title": "Residual astigmatism and visual acuity with hydrogel contact lenses: a comparative study.", "content": "Residual astigmatism, visual acuity, and transferred corneal toricity were measured in a double masked fashion on 24 randomly selected patients fitted with Buasch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses, the Hydrocurve II contact lenses, and the AOSoftTM hydrophillic contact lenses. None of the subjects had any contraindications to hydrogel lens wear. All three lens types produced a small but similar reduction in refractive astigmatism. However, because of residual astigmatism, fewer eyes achieved 20/20 or better visual acuity with each of the hydrogel lens types than with the best spectacle correction. Corneal toricity was found to be transferred to the front surface of all three lens types. Our findings indicate that generally these three types of hydrogel lenses result in similar residual astigmatism, visual acuity and transferred corneal toricity. However, individual differences may occur. Therefore, the choice of lens type should be based on the individual patient's response to various lens types.", "contents": "Residual astigmatism and visual acuity with hydrogel contact lenses: a comparative study. Residual astigmatism, visual acuity, and transferred corneal toricity were measured in a double masked fashion on 24 randomly selected patients fitted with Buasch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses, the Hydrocurve II contact lenses, and the AOSoftTM hydrophillic contact lenses. None of the subjects had any contraindications to hydrogel lens wear. All three lens types produced a small but similar reduction in refractive astigmatism. However, because of residual astigmatism, fewer eyes achieved 20/20 or better visual acuity with each of the hydrogel lens types than with the best spectacle correction. Corneal toricity was found to be transferred to the front surface of all three lens types. Our findings indicate that generally these three types of hydrogel lenses result in similar residual astigmatism, visual acuity and transferred corneal toricity. However, individual differences may occur. Therefore, the choice of lens type should be based on the individual patient's response to various lens types.", "PMID": 448008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8381", "title": "Lacrimal lens effects in Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lens wear.", "content": "The correlation between lacrimal lens power changes and changing posterior apical radii was examined for a sample of 20 eyes wearing Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses. Power changes caused by in situ lens flexure were calculated for principal meridians and both calculated in situ contact lens powers and over-refraction corrections were subtracted from the patient's spectacle corrections to determine lacrimal lens powers in each meridian. A significant correlation (p less than 0.01) was found in the flatter meridians for B, F, J, and N series lenses. To support the validity of the study a correlation was done between K's calculated from refractions done over the Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses and both the K's calculated from refractions done over PMMA diagnostic lenses and the K's as measured with the keratometer. There was a significant (p less than 0.01) correlation in both series, indicating that calculated K's can validate the presence and power of a lacrimal lens in soft (hydrogel) contact lens wear as well as in conventional contact lens wear. (A correlation between the K's as measured with the keratometer and the K's calculated from refractions done over PMMA diagnostic lenses were also significant (p less than 0.01).", "contents": "Lacrimal lens effects in Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lens wear. The correlation between lacrimal lens power changes and changing posterior apical radii was examined for a sample of 20 eyes wearing Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses. Power changes caused by in situ lens flexure were calculated for principal meridians and both calculated in situ contact lens powers and over-refraction corrections were subtracted from the patient's spectacle corrections to determine lacrimal lens powers in each meridian. A significant correlation (p less than 0.01) was found in the flatter meridians for B, F, J, and N series lenses. To support the validity of the study a correlation was done between K's calculated from refractions done over the Bausch and Lomb Soflens contact lenses and both the K's calculated from refractions done over PMMA diagnostic lenses and the K's as measured with the keratometer. There was a significant (p less than 0.01) correlation in both series, indicating that calculated K's can validate the presence and power of a lacrimal lens in soft (hydrogel) contact lens wear as well as in conventional contact lens wear. (A correlation between the K's as measured with the keratometer and the K's calculated from refractions done over PMMA diagnostic lenses were also significant (p less than 0.01).", "PMID": 448009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8382", "title": "Rigid lenses: an overview.", "content": "New gas permeable rigid contact lens materials, by allowing direct transmission of oxygen, provide significant advantages over PMMA. Edema resulting from oxygen deprivation with PMMA lenses is eliminated and comfort is increased. Three types of gas permeable materials are described: CAB, silicone, and a combination of CAB and silicone.", "contents": "Rigid lenses: an overview. New gas permeable rigid contact lens materials, by allowing direct transmission of oxygen, provide significant advantages over PMMA. Edema resulting from oxygen deprivation with PMMA lenses is eliminated and comfort is increased. Three types of gas permeable materials are described: CAB, silicone, and a combination of CAB and silicone.", "PMID": 448010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8383", "title": "Oxygen-transmitting hard contact lenses.", "content": "Nine PMMA contact lens wearers with persistent corneal edema were refitted with CAB contact lenses. All of the patients showed less corneal swelling with CAB lenses than with PMMA lenses.", "contents": "Oxygen-transmitting hard contact lenses. Nine PMMA contact lens wearers with persistent corneal edema were refitted with CAB contact lenses. All of the patients showed less corneal swelling with CAB lenses than with PMMA lenses.", "PMID": 448011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8384", "title": "Effects of rigid lens flexure on vision.", "content": "Rigid lenses may flex on the eye, particularly when the center thickness is less than 0.12 mm. Rigid oxygen permeable materials are less rigid than PMMA and can be expected to flex more easily.", "contents": "Effects of rigid lens flexure on vision. Rigid lenses may flex on the eye, particularly when the center thickness is less than 0.12 mm. Rigid oxygen permeable materials are less rigid than PMMA and can be expected to flex more easily.", "PMID": 448012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8385", "title": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis: an overview.", "content": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis is a condition of the upper palpebral conjunctiva which has been associated with hard and soft contact lens wear. The condition is classified into four stages. The causes and course of therapy are discussed.", "contents": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis: an overview. Giant papillary conjunctivitis is a condition of the upper palpebral conjunctiva which has been associated with hard and soft contact lens wear. The condition is classified into four stages. The causes and course of therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 448014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8386", "title": "New design concepts for permeable rigid contact lenses.", "content": "Gas permeable rigid lens materials offer the opportunity to reevaluate contact lens design. This paper presents the rationale and procedures followed in the development of a design concept for the Polycon lens material.", "contents": "New design concepts for permeable rigid contact lenses. Gas permeable rigid lens materials offer the opportunity to reevaluate contact lens design. This paper presents the rationale and procedures followed in the development of a design concept for the Polycon lens material.", "PMID": 448013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8387", "title": "Tear pH: resistance to change.", "content": "While considerable study and clinical speculation has been given to tear pH, almost no attention has been paid to the buffering capacity of this fluid. Responses of tears to an alkaline challenge test as a measure of their buffering capacity are described here for a series of patients. The magnitudes of those resulting shifts, and the probable mechanisms influencing them are commented upon.", "contents": "Tear pH: resistance to change. While considerable study and clinical speculation has been given to tear pH, almost no attention has been paid to the buffering capacity of this fluid. Responses of tears to an alkaline challenge test as a measure of their buffering capacity are described here for a series of patients. The magnitudes of those resulting shifts, and the probable mechanisms influencing them are commented upon.", "PMID": 448015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8388", "title": "Corneal staining relating to contact lens wear.", "content": "This paper presents an overview of the common types of corneal staining that are encountered when wearing contact lenses. Included are descriptions of corneal staining occurring with rigid lenses (polymethylmethacrylate and cellulose acetate buterate), various types of hydrophilic lenses and silicone lenses. Specific patterns of sodium fluorescein staining are depicted and related to the various types of contact lenses.", "contents": "Corneal staining relating to contact lens wear. This paper presents an overview of the common types of corneal staining that are encountered when wearing contact lenses. Included are descriptions of corneal staining occurring with rigid lenses (polymethylmethacrylate and cellulose acetate buterate), various types of hydrophilic lenses and silicone lenses. Specific patterns of sodium fluorescein staining are depicted and related to the various types of contact lenses.", "PMID": 448016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8389", "title": "Corneal staining subsequent to sequential fluorescein instillations.", "content": "Liquid fluorescein (2%) was instilled into the inferior cul-de-sac and the precorneal tear film and the cornea were observed utilizing a specialized examination routine. Following the initial fluorescein instillation and observations, sequential fluorescein instillations were performed at five-minute intervals six additional times. The incidence of corneal staining (200 corneas) following the initial instillation of fluorescein was 19%. An additional 23% exhibited staining as a result of the sequential staining process. Five types of staining were classified; the most common forms were those associated with the lid margins. Severe degrees of staining appear to be clinically significant, as suggested by a correlation between severe degrees of staining and contact lens intolerance.", "contents": "Corneal staining subsequent to sequential fluorescein instillations. Liquid fluorescein (2%) was instilled into the inferior cul-de-sac and the precorneal tear film and the cornea were observed utilizing a specialized examination routine. Following the initial fluorescein instillation and observations, sequential fluorescein instillations were performed at five-minute intervals six additional times. The incidence of corneal staining (200 corneas) following the initial instillation of fluorescein was 19%. An additional 23% exhibited staining as a result of the sequential staining process. Five types of staining were classified; the most common forms were those associated with the lid margins. Severe degrees of staining appear to be clinically significant, as suggested by a correlation between severe degrees of staining and contact lens intolerance.", "PMID": 448017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8390", "title": "An embedded contact lens in the upper lid masquerading as a mass.", "content": "A patient who \"lost\" his right contact lens three years prior to our examination was found to have a mass in the right upper lid which contained the hard contact lens. A careful search of the superior fornix and the upper lid, with double eversion of the lids, is indicated in instances where a patient presents reporting loss of a lens he was wearing or inserting.", "contents": "An embedded contact lens in the upper lid masquerading as a mass. A patient who \"lost\" his right contact lens three years prior to our examination was found to have a mass in the right upper lid which contained the hard contact lens. A careful search of the superior fornix and the upper lid, with double eversion of the lids, is indicated in instances where a patient presents reporting loss of a lens he was wearing or inserting.", "PMID": 448018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8391", "title": "Effects of the antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) on mortality in BALB/c mice.", "content": "Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was given in the feed to determine its effect on life span in genetically well-defined, barrier-derived BALB/c mice. Both sexes received 0.75% BHT for three different treatment periods: (A) 8 to 11 weeks of age; (B) for life, beginning at 11 weeks; (C) for life, beginning at 8 weeks of age. The control group (D) was untreated. All BHT treatment groups had mean survival times which exceeded that of controls. The order of survival was B greater than C greater than A greater than D (Males: 890, 832, 726, 684 days; Females: 875, 798, 759, 701 days). Most of the increases in mean survival time were related to a reduction in early deaths (350--600 days) in BHT-treated mice. The reason for the life-lengthening effect on BHT was not identified, but it may relate to alterations in specific disease incidences.", "contents": "Effects of the antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) on mortality in BALB/c mice. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was given in the feed to determine its effect on life span in genetically well-defined, barrier-derived BALB/c mice. Both sexes received 0.75% BHT for three different treatment periods: (A) 8 to 11 weeks of age; (B) for life, beginning at 11 weeks; (C) for life, beginning at 8 weeks of age. The control group (D) was untreated. All BHT treatment groups had mean survival times which exceeded that of controls. The order of survival was B greater than C greater than A greater than D (Males: 890, 832, 726, 684 days; Females: 875, 798, 759, 701 days). Most of the increases in mean survival time were related to a reduction in early deaths (350--600 days) in BHT-treated mice. The reason for the life-lengthening effect on BHT was not identified, but it may relate to alterations in specific disease incidences.", "PMID": 448040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8392", "title": "Morphologic lesions in aging Syrian hamsters.", "content": "The oldest members of most short- and long-lived mammalian species develop many similar morphologic changes. This suggests that the combined occurrence of a variety of age-associated lesions in a group can be used as an indicator of its advanced biological age. Males and females from our colony of aging Syrian hamsters were previously shown to have an equally high incidence of atrial thrombosis and myocardial degeneration, despite the females' much shorter life-span. Other age-associated lesions were then examined histopathologically to determine whether females age faster than males. Hepatic, renal, and splenic amyloidosis were more severe in females than in males and became so at an earlier age. Degenerative lesions were also found in adrenals, thyroids, and brains of both sexes. Atrophy was especially severe in the thymus. The incidence of malignant neoplasms, most of which were of lymphoreticular origin, was similar in both sexes. Female hamsters may age faster than males if biological age can be assessed by these morhologic criteria.", "contents": "Morphologic lesions in aging Syrian hamsters. The oldest members of most short- and long-lived mammalian species develop many similar morphologic changes. This suggests that the combined occurrence of a variety of age-associated lesions in a group can be used as an indicator of its advanced biological age. Males and females from our colony of aging Syrian hamsters were previously shown to have an equally high incidence of atrial thrombosis and myocardial degeneration, despite the females' much shorter life-span. Other age-associated lesions were then examined histopathologically to determine whether females age faster than males. Hepatic, renal, and splenic amyloidosis were more severe in females than in males and became so at an earlier age. Degenerative lesions were also found in adrenals, thyroids, and brains of both sexes. Atrophy was especially severe in the thymus. The incidence of malignant neoplasms, most of which were of lymphoreticular origin, was similar in both sexes. Female hamsters may age faster than males if biological age can be assessed by these morhologic criteria.", "PMID": 448041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8393", "title": "Age and aerobic power in women: a longitudinal study.", "content": "Thirty-six women from an original cross-sectional population of 81 were retested after an average time span of 6.1 years to determine the longitudinal effects of aging on aerobic power. Women in their 20s maintained a constant level of VO2max. All other age groups showed a decrease in aerobic power (l . min-1 and ml . kg-1 . min-1) similar to that observed in the cross-sectional study. Although the decline in VO2max was similar for both groups, active women increased walk time on the treadmill, while sedentary women decreased in endurance time. Maximal heart rate also decreased with age but the rate of decrease was not constant across time. HRmax remained relatively steady during the middle years and then declined at a faster rate in the 50- and 60-year-old age groups. The results of the present study suggest that cross-sectional studies can provide valid information about the effect of age on response to maximal exercise provided that close attention is paid to the limitations underlying regression therapy. The data also indicate a need to consider alternatives to linear regression analysis of aging effects, since the rate of change of some variables is not constant across age.", "contents": "Age and aerobic power in women: a longitudinal study. Thirty-six women from an original cross-sectional population of 81 were retested after an average time span of 6.1 years to determine the longitudinal effects of aging on aerobic power. Women in their 20s maintained a constant level of VO2max. All other age groups showed a decrease in aerobic power (l . min-1 and ml . kg-1 . min-1) similar to that observed in the cross-sectional study. Although the decline in VO2max was similar for both groups, active women increased walk time on the treadmill, while sedentary women decreased in endurance time. Maximal heart rate also decreased with age but the rate of decrease was not constant across time. HRmax remained relatively steady during the middle years and then declined at a faster rate in the 50- and 60-year-old age groups. The results of the present study suggest that cross-sectional studies can provide valid information about the effect of age on response to maximal exercise provided that close attention is paid to the limitations underlying regression therapy. The data also indicate a need to consider alternatives to linear regression analysis of aging effects, since the rate of change of some variables is not constant across age.", "PMID": 448042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8394", "title": "Serum ferritin in an elderly population.", "content": "Serum ferritin was assayed by an immunoradiometric method in 82 people above 60 years of age. For comparison purposes, the same assay was performed in 71 younger normal adults. The serum ferritin distribution in the elderly had a larger variance than in the younger adults and in addition, there was a clear shift to higher values in the elderly. The latter was more notable in females than in males but there was still a statistically lower mean in elderly females than in elderly males. Ten out of 55 elderly subjects with evidence of iron deficiency (response to oral iron therapy) had a normal or high serum ferritin which suggests that variables unrelated to iron status may operate in determining serum ferritin levels in the elderly. The shift to higher values appears to occur upon reaching grossly 70 years of age. Whether the shift is a physiologically normal event is at present an open question.", "contents": "Serum ferritin in an elderly population. Serum ferritin was assayed by an immunoradiometric method in 82 people above 60 years of age. For comparison purposes, the same assay was performed in 71 younger normal adults. The serum ferritin distribution in the elderly had a larger variance than in the younger adults and in addition, there was a clear shift to higher values in the elderly. The latter was more notable in females than in males but there was still a statistically lower mean in elderly females than in elderly males. Ten out of 55 elderly subjects with evidence of iron deficiency (response to oral iron therapy) had a normal or high serum ferritin which suggests that variables unrelated to iron status may operate in determining serum ferritin levels in the elderly. The shift to higher values appears to occur upon reaching grossly 70 years of age. Whether the shift is a physiologically normal event is at present an open question.", "PMID": 448043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8395", "title": "Cognitive speed and subsequent intellectual development: a longitudinal investigation.", "content": "The hypothesis that a measure of intellectual speed assessed at one point in time would predict intellectual achievement at a later point in time was evaluated with a time-lagged cross-correlational analysis, an application of causal modeling techniques. Longitudinal data for 32 males and females, tested in 1944 (mean age 19.5 years) and in 1972 (mean age 46.7 years), supported the hypothesized relationships with an associated p less than .01. The Relations Factor of the Army Alpha Examination--consisting of scores from a highly speeded simple analogies test and a short-term memory test--administered at age 20 was highly predictive of both verbal and numerical ability in middle age. The results highlight the cognitive intellectual aspect of the speed of behavior. In addition, these findings supplement Hunt's studies of the relationships between speed of cognitive processing and psychometric abilities in young adults, and emphasize the importance of cognitive speed for subsequent intellectual development. Implications for the intellectual speed hypothesis of Birren and the utilization of time-lag designs in longitudinal research are discussed.", "contents": "Cognitive speed and subsequent intellectual development: a longitudinal investigation. The hypothesis that a measure of intellectual speed assessed at one point in time would predict intellectual achievement at a later point in time was evaluated with a time-lagged cross-correlational analysis, an application of causal modeling techniques. Longitudinal data for 32 males and females, tested in 1944 (mean age 19.5 years) and in 1972 (mean age 46.7 years), supported the hypothesized relationships with an associated p less than .01. The Relations Factor of the Army Alpha Examination--consisting of scores from a highly speeded simple analogies test and a short-term memory test--administered at age 20 was highly predictive of both verbal and numerical ability in middle age. The results highlight the cognitive intellectual aspect of the speed of behavior. In addition, these findings supplement Hunt's studies of the relationships between speed of cognitive processing and psychometric abilities in young adults, and emphasize the importance of cognitive speed for subsequent intellectual development. Implications for the intellectual speed hypothesis of Birren and the utilization of time-lag designs in longitudinal research are discussed.", "PMID": 448045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8396", "title": "Age differences in adults' free recall, cued recall, and recognition.", "content": "Adults in their twenties and sixties were tested for free recall, cued recall, and recognition of words that they had studied in an intentional memory task or generated associations to in an incidental orienting task. Significant age-related declines in performances on intentional items were observed regardless of type of memory test. Significant age-related declines in performance on incidental items were also observed on free and cued recall tests; however, age differences on incidental items were attenuated on cued recall tests, and they were eliminated on recognition tests. In addition, while younger subjects profited more from retrieval cues that were associations they had themselves generated than from retrieval cues that were normed common associations, older subjects made comparable use of these two cue types.", "contents": "Age differences in adults' free recall, cued recall, and recognition. Adults in their twenties and sixties were tested for free recall, cued recall, and recognition of words that they had studied in an intentional memory task or generated associations to in an incidental orienting task. Significant age-related declines in performances on intentional items were observed regardless of type of memory test. Significant age-related declines in performance on incidental items were also observed on free and cued recall tests; however, age differences on incidental items were attenuated on cued recall tests, and they were eliminated on recognition tests. In addition, while younger subjects profited more from retrieval cues that were associations they had themselves generated than from retrieval cues that were normed common associations, older subjects made comparable use of these two cue types.", "PMID": 448044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8397", "title": "Age differences in resolving power and decision strategies in a weight discrimination task.", "content": "Current theories of aging suggest that at least part of the decline in performance on psychophysical tasks, commonly observed in older subjects, may be the result of their becoming more cautious about sensory decisions. This conclusion has been supported by experiments in which the criterion index, beta, from signal detection theory is shown to be higher (indicating a strict criterion) for older subjects. A weight-discrimination experiments is reported which failed to replicate the earlier results; older subjects' criteria were the same or more lax than those of younger controls on that task. The possibility that extreme caution on the part of older people may be specific to certain classes of task is discussed.", "contents": "Age differences in resolving power and decision strategies in a weight discrimination task. Current theories of aging suggest that at least part of the decline in performance on psychophysical tasks, commonly observed in older subjects, may be the result of their becoming more cautious about sensory decisions. This conclusion has been supported by experiments in which the criterion index, beta, from signal detection theory is shown to be higher (indicating a strict criterion) for older subjects. A weight-discrimination experiments is reported which failed to replicate the earlier results; older subjects' criteria were the same or more lax than those of younger controls on that task. The possibility that extreme caution on the part of older people may be specific to certain classes of task is discussed.", "PMID": 448046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8398", "title": "Effects of varying irrelevant information on adult age differences in problem solving.", "content": "Sixty young (M = 20.6), middle-aged (M = 52.4), and elderly (M = 72.6) men and women solved problems which required them to match one of two stimulus arrays to a standard. On each problem one dimension (color, form, number, or position) was relevant to correct matching, and three dimensions, which were either variable or constant, were irrelevant to solution. Age and the number of variable irrelevant dimensions were the best predictors of reaction time and error scores. Young were significantly faster than middle-aged and the middle-aged were faster than the elderly. The elderly made most errors, but the young and middle-aged were not significantly different from each other. Reaction times and errors increased as the number of variable irrelevant dimensions increased. For the elderly there was a disproportionate increase in both reaction times and errors as levels of irrelevancy increased. No reliable differences were found with regard to gender. The results were discussed in terms of an age-related decline in the ability to ignore irrelevant information.", "contents": "Effects of varying irrelevant information on adult age differences in problem solving. Sixty young (M = 20.6), middle-aged (M = 52.4), and elderly (M = 72.6) men and women solved problems which required them to match one of two stimulus arrays to a standard. On each problem one dimension (color, form, number, or position) was relevant to correct matching, and three dimensions, which were either variable or constant, were irrelevant to solution. Age and the number of variable irrelevant dimensions were the best predictors of reaction time and error scores. Young were significantly faster than middle-aged and the middle-aged were faster than the elderly. The elderly made most errors, but the young and middle-aged were not significantly different from each other. Reaction times and errors increased as the number of variable irrelevant dimensions increased. For the elderly there was a disproportionate increase in both reaction times and errors as levels of irrelevancy increased. No reliable differences were found with regard to gender. The results were discussed in terms of an age-related decline in the ability to ignore irrelevant information.", "PMID": 448047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8399", "title": "Old men and young women: how objectively are their skills assessed?", "content": "Seventy-four male and female undergraduate participants evaluated an essay describing a work of art. They read either a well or a poorly written essay attributed to one of the following authors: a 25-year-old male, a 25-year-old female, a 64-year-old male or a 64-year-old female. Age of target X sex of target X essay quality interactions emerged on four of five dependent variables. In general, essay quality affected evaluations of young male and old female authors, but had little impact on evaluations of young females and old males. The results suggest that young females and old males may be the target of subtle prejudice which causes their work to be assessed unobjectively. They also emphasize the importance of simultaneously manipulating age and sex of target persons in future research. Implications of the findings for the accurate evaluation of elderly males in employment settings are discussed.", "contents": "Old men and young women: how objectively are their skills assessed? Seventy-four male and female undergraduate participants evaluated an essay describing a work of art. They read either a well or a poorly written essay attributed to one of the following authors: a 25-year-old male, a 25-year-old female, a 64-year-old male or a 64-year-old female. Age of target X sex of target X essay quality interactions emerged on four of five dependent variables. In general, essay quality affected evaluations of young male and old female authors, but had little impact on evaluations of young females and old males. The results suggest that young females and old males may be the target of subtle prejudice which causes their work to be assessed unobjectively. They also emphasize the importance of simultaneously manipulating age and sex of target persons in future research. Implications of the findings for the accurate evaluation of elderly males in employment settings are discussed.", "PMID": 448048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8400", "title": "Anomia, self-esteem, and life satisfaction: interrelationships among three scales of well-being.", "content": "The extent to which anomia, self-esteem, and life satisfaction are conceptually distinct was studied by using factor analysis of the items from Srole's anomia scale, Rosenberg's scale of self-esteem, and the LSI-Z. The data came from interviews held with 1,332 older men living in nonmetropolitan areas of Iowa. The analysis demonstrated that, while the concepts of anomia and self-esteem are distinct, the domain of life satisfaction overlaps those of anomia and self-esteem. The representation of the five components of life satisfaction by the items of the LSI-Z is questioned, and caution in using the six-items version of Rosenberg's measure of self-esteem with older adults is suggested.", "contents": "Anomia, self-esteem, and life satisfaction: interrelationships among three scales of well-being. The extent to which anomia, self-esteem, and life satisfaction are conceptually distinct was studied by using factor analysis of the items from Srole's anomia scale, Rosenberg's scale of self-esteem, and the LSI-Z. The data came from interviews held with 1,332 older men living in nonmetropolitan areas of Iowa. The analysis demonstrated that, while the concepts of anomia and self-esteem are distinct, the domain of life satisfaction overlaps those of anomia and self-esteem. The representation of the five components of life satisfaction by the items of the LSI-Z is questioned, and caution in using the six-items version of Rosenberg's measure of self-esteem with older adults is suggested.", "PMID": 448049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8401", "title": "Age variations in the dimensionality of life satisfaction.", "content": "Paralleling the increasing importance of life satisfaction and related concepts in gerontological research has been an increase in the number and kind of operational measures of these concepts. In this context the present research suggests not only that life satisfaction is a multidimensional rather than a unidimensional construct but, of particular gerontological importance, the pattern of multidimensionality varies across age groups. The analysis is based upon a national sample of the adult population of the United States in which 12 different domains of life satisfaction were subjectively assessed by each respondent. Separate factor analyses were computed for each of seven age groups. The results clearly indicate that for every age group life satisfaction is a multidimensional construct. More importantly, the dimensionally differs substantially, across the age groups -- both in the number of factors derived and the domain-specific content of those factors.", "contents": "Age variations in the dimensionality of life satisfaction. Paralleling the increasing importance of life satisfaction and related concepts in gerontological research has been an increase in the number and kind of operational measures of these concepts. In this context the present research suggests not only that life satisfaction is a multidimensional rather than a unidimensional construct but, of particular gerontological importance, the pattern of multidimensionality varies across age groups. The analysis is based upon a national sample of the adult population of the United States in which 12 different domains of life satisfaction were subjectively assessed by each respondent. Separate factor analyses were computed for each of seven age groups. The results clearly indicate that for every age group life satisfaction is a multidimensional construct. More importantly, the dimensionally differs substantially, across the age groups -- both in the number of factors derived and the domain-specific content of those factors.", "PMID": 448050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8402", "title": "The voluntary associations of the aged.", "content": "This paper examines the voluntary associations of the aged. A substantial majority of respondents were affiliated and more than one-half had multiple affiliations. Rate of affiliation remained high even for individuals over 80. Contrary to expectation, women were as likely as men to be affiliated and to have multiple memberships, and were significantly more active in voluntary groups than men. Those belonging to multiple associations were more active in each association than individuals with only one or two affiliations. Overlapping memberships were common. Reasons for active involvement are provided. The bulk of the memberships were of three types which, in function, are integrative at the personality level.", "contents": "The voluntary associations of the aged. This paper examines the voluntary associations of the aged. A substantial majority of respondents were affiliated and more than one-half had multiple affiliations. Rate of affiliation remained high even for individuals over 80. Contrary to expectation, women were as likely as men to be affiliated and to have multiple memberships, and were significantly more active in voluntary groups than men. Those belonging to multiple associations were more active in each association than individuals with only one or two affiliations. Overlapping memberships were common. Reasons for active involvement are provided. The bulk of the memberships were of three types which, in function, are integrative at the personality level.", "PMID": 448051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8403", "title": "The antitrust implications of relative value studies in medicine.", "content": "Relative value studies are lists of \"relative values\" of different professional services. Antitrust enforcement agencies recently have filed several complaints against the promulgation of relative value studies by professional organizations of physicians, alleging that these lists have been used to fix and increase physician fees. This article examines the status of professionally sponsored relative values studies under antitrust law and suggests several reasons why they should be held unlawful. In particular, such relative value studies threaten to eliminate desirable competition among private third-party payers in the development of effective cost-containment strategies as well as among physicians in the setting of fees. Moreover, the alleged benefits of professionally sponsored relative value studies could be achieved by alternative means that do not similarly restrict competition in the provision of medical services.", "contents": "The antitrust implications of relative value studies in medicine. Relative value studies are lists of \"relative values\" of different professional services. Antitrust enforcement agencies recently have filed several complaints against the promulgation of relative value studies by professional organizations of physicians, alleging that these lists have been used to fix and increase physician fees. This article examines the status of professionally sponsored relative values studies under antitrust law and suggests several reasons why they should be held unlawful. In particular, such relative value studies threaten to eliminate desirable competition among private third-party payers in the development of effective cost-containment strategies as well as among physicians in the setting of fees. Moreover, the alleged benefits of professionally sponsored relative value studies could be achieved by alternative means that do not similarly restrict competition in the provision of medical services.", "PMID": 448054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8404", "title": "The development of the sinusoids of fetal rat liver: localization of endogenous peroxidase in fetal Kupffer cells.", "content": "Endogenous peroxidase is the cytochemical marker used to identify Kupffer cells in the adult liver. In this study, we show by ultrastructural cytochemistry that Kupffer cells of the fetal rat liver are endogenous peroxidase positive. The reaction product is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum including the perinuclear cisternae and in a few lysosome-like dense bodies. Serial sections of Golgi regions suggest that GERL and not the Golgi stacks, is peroxidase positive. As in the adult liver, peroxidase is not localized in endothelial cells. Kupffer cells do not appear to transform from endothelial or extravascular developing monocytic cells and are present prior to bone marrow formation. The relevance of these observations with respect to the possible origin of the Kupffer cell is discussed.", "contents": "The development of the sinusoids of fetal rat liver: localization of endogenous peroxidase in fetal Kupffer cells. Endogenous peroxidase is the cytochemical marker used to identify Kupffer cells in the adult liver. In this study, we show by ultrastructural cytochemistry that Kupffer cells of the fetal rat liver are endogenous peroxidase positive. The reaction product is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum including the perinuclear cisternae and in a few lysosome-like dense bodies. Serial sections of Golgi regions suggest that GERL and not the Golgi stacks, is peroxidase positive. As in the adult liver, peroxidase is not localized in endothelial cells. Kupffer cells do not appear to transform from endothelial or extravascular developing monocytic cells and are present prior to bone marrow formation. The relevance of these observations with respect to the possible origin of the Kupffer cell is discussed.", "PMID": 448056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8405", "title": "NAD+-15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase distribution in rat kidney.", "content": "Rat kidney NAD+-dependent 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH) was measured in zones and substructure of the rat kidney nephron. This was accomplished utilizing an assay procedure based upon determining the amount of prostaglandin E1 present before and after the reaction with the 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase contained in the tissue sample. The enzyme activity was assayed in freeze dried, quick frozen rat kidney sections and its distribution within the rat kidney was determined. In kidney zones, it was localized to medullary rays and inner cortex. In kidney substructure, activity was highest in collecting tubule, pars recti tubule, distal convoluted tubule and the ascending limb of Henle (14.2, 11.5, 6.4 and 9.2 mM kg-1hr-1, respectively). Activity in glomeruli, proximal convoluted tubule and small arteries was lower (2.1, 2.8 and 2.1 mM kg-1hr-1, respectively). The assay procedure was verified by established assays (spectrophotometric, fluorometric and radiometric TLC) which are often used in homogenate and purified PGDH preparations.", "contents": "NAD+-15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase distribution in rat kidney. Rat kidney NAD+-dependent 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH) was measured in zones and substructure of the rat kidney nephron. This was accomplished utilizing an assay procedure based upon determining the amount of prostaglandin E1 present before and after the reaction with the 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase contained in the tissue sample. The enzyme activity was assayed in freeze dried, quick frozen rat kidney sections and its distribution within the rat kidney was determined. In kidney zones, it was localized to medullary rays and inner cortex. In kidney substructure, activity was highest in collecting tubule, pars recti tubule, distal convoluted tubule and the ascending limb of Henle (14.2, 11.5, 6.4 and 9.2 mM kg-1hr-1, respectively). Activity in glomeruli, proximal convoluted tubule and small arteries was lower (2.1, 2.8 and 2.1 mM kg-1hr-1, respectively). The assay procedure was verified by established assays (spectrophotometric, fluorometric and radiometric TLC) which are often used in homogenate and purified PGDH preparations.", "PMID": 448057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8406", "title": "Light microscope and electron microscope alkaline phosphatase cytochemistry of rat bone marrow leukocytes.", "content": "An enzyme cytochemical method yielding an osmiophilic reaction product, visible at both the light and electron microscope levels, has been applied to the study of alkaline phosphatase in rat bone marrow cells. The enzyme is present in both eosinophils and, in much smaller amounts, in neutrophils. In both cases it is present on the plasma membrane, and in eosinophils intracellular aggregations of reaction product are also seen. The specific granules in both cell types fail to react and the enzyme is first detectable at the promyelocyte stage. Thus the enzyme is demonstrable before specific granule formation begins in the neutrophil, indicating that they are not a significant site of alkaline phosphatase activity in the rat.", "contents": "Light microscope and electron microscope alkaline phosphatase cytochemistry of rat bone marrow leukocytes. An enzyme cytochemical method yielding an osmiophilic reaction product, visible at both the light and electron microscope levels, has been applied to the study of alkaline phosphatase in rat bone marrow cells. The enzyme is present in both eosinophils and, in much smaller amounts, in neutrophils. In both cases it is present on the plasma membrane, and in eosinophils intracellular aggregations of reaction product are also seen. The specific granules in both cell types fail to react and the enzyme is first detectable at the promyelocyte stage. Thus the enzyme is demonstrable before specific granule formation begins in the neutrophil, indicating that they are not a significant site of alkaline phosphatase activity in the rat.", "PMID": 448058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8407", "title": "The use of the potassium pyroantimonate-osmium method as a means of identifying and localizing calcium at the ultrastructural level in the cells of calcifying systems.", "content": "Potassium pyroantimonate-osmium has been used to localize calcium as an electron dense precipitate in the odontoblast, ameloblast and early hypertrophic chondrocytes of the mandibular condylar growth cartilage. The precipitate exhibited a specific association with various cell organelles. The presence of calcium in the precipitates was confirmed using energy dispersive analysis by x-rays. It is suggested that this K-pyroantimonate method provides an accurate technique for the investigation of the subcellular localization of calcium in calcifying systems.", "contents": "The use of the potassium pyroantimonate-osmium method as a means of identifying and localizing calcium at the ultrastructural level in the cells of calcifying systems. Potassium pyroantimonate-osmium has been used to localize calcium as an electron dense precipitate in the odontoblast, ameloblast and early hypertrophic chondrocytes of the mandibular condylar growth cartilage. The precipitate exhibited a specific association with various cell organelles. The presence of calcium in the precipitates was confirmed using energy dispersive analysis by x-rays. It is suggested that this K-pyroantimonate method provides an accurate technique for the investigation of the subcellular localization of calcium in calcifying systems.", "PMID": 448059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8408", "title": "Ferrocyanide staining of transferrin and ferritin-conjugated antibody to transferrin.", "content": "To evaluate the ultrastructural distribution of transferrin on the surface of L1210 ascites tumor cells, we used ferrocyanide to stain ferric iron (Prussian blue reaction) in transferrin, as well as in ferritin conjugated to antibody that was immunologically attached to the transferrin. Small deposits averaging 5 nm in diameter identified transferrin iron, whereas large cuboidal deposits averaging 50 nm in diameter stained ferritin conjugated-antibody that was bound to both transferrin and apotransferrin on the cell surface. The ability of transferrin to deliver iron to ascites tumor cells was confirmed by kinetic studies of transferrin labeled with 59Fe and 125I. These preliminary results are consistent with release of transferrin iron at the cell surface and demonstrate additional uses for ferrocyanide in ultrastructural cytochemical techniques.", "contents": "Ferrocyanide staining of transferrin and ferritin-conjugated antibody to transferrin. To evaluate the ultrastructural distribution of transferrin on the surface of L1210 ascites tumor cells, we used ferrocyanide to stain ferric iron (Prussian blue reaction) in transferrin, as well as in ferritin conjugated to antibody that was immunologically attached to the transferrin. Small deposits averaging 5 nm in diameter identified transferrin iron, whereas large cuboidal deposits averaging 50 nm in diameter stained ferritin conjugated-antibody that was bound to both transferrin and apotransferrin on the cell surface. The ability of transferrin to deliver iron to ascites tumor cells was confirmed by kinetic studies of transferrin labeled with 59Fe and 125I. These preliminary results are consistent with release of transferrin iron at the cell surface and demonstrate additional uses for ferrocyanide in ultrastructural cytochemical techniques.", "PMID": 448060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8409", "title": "Cytochemical properties of mitochondria in the gastric parietal cell.", "content": "The matrix of some mitochondria in gastric parietal cells of rat and guinea pig evidenced affinity for the high iron diamine method which localizes sulfated complex carbohydrates selectively by light and electron microscopy. Such staining has not been observed elsewhere in the stomach. The high iron diamine reactive mitochondria about equaled in number those which were unreactive, and the two groups were indistinguishable morphologically. The distinction was not apparent either when mitochondria were stained by other cytochemical procedures including dialyzed iron for acidic complex carbohydrates, 3-3' diaminobenzidine-H2O2 at pH 6.0 for cytochrome oxidase, and Kominick's pyroantimonate osmium tetroxide for antimonate precipitable cations. The dialyzed iron method stained acid glycoconjugates in the outer intermembrane space in parietal cell mitochondria. These mitochondria stained more strongly with dialyzed iron than have any others examined heretofore with this method and comprised the only reactive mitochondria in the stomach. Parietal cell mitochondria also stained strongly for cytochrome oxidase but those of other gastric cells failed to evidence this reactivity.", "contents": "Cytochemical properties of mitochondria in the gastric parietal cell. The matrix of some mitochondria in gastric parietal cells of rat and guinea pig evidenced affinity for the high iron diamine method which localizes sulfated complex carbohydrates selectively by light and electron microscopy. Such staining has not been observed elsewhere in the stomach. The high iron diamine reactive mitochondria about equaled in number those which were unreactive, and the two groups were indistinguishable morphologically. The distinction was not apparent either when mitochondria were stained by other cytochemical procedures including dialyzed iron for acidic complex carbohydrates, 3-3' diaminobenzidine-H2O2 at pH 6.0 for cytochrome oxidase, and Kominick's pyroantimonate osmium tetroxide for antimonate precipitable cations. The dialyzed iron method stained acid glycoconjugates in the outer intermembrane space in parietal cell mitochondria. These mitochondria stained more strongly with dialyzed iron than have any others examined heretofore with this method and comprised the only reactive mitochondria in the stomach. Parietal cell mitochondria also stained strongly for cytochrome oxidase but those of other gastric cells failed to evidence this reactivity.", "PMID": 448061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8410", "title": "Spread of Salmonella typhi in a maternity hospital.", "content": "An Asian patient with undiagnosed typhoid fever was admitted to a maternity hospital and delivered within 10 min. Salmonella typhi (phage type D5) was isolated from her blood and from the faeces of her baby. Another women in a different room of the labour suite at the same time acquired the same organism in her faeces; her brother was admitted to the Infectious Diseases Unit 5 weeks later with typhoid fever. Two babies, born over 60 h after the index case was delivered, became faecal excreters of the same strain and one of them also developed S. typhi osteitis of the hip. These two babies and their mothers were in the same ward as each other, but not that occupied by the infected mother and her baby. Nine other excreters in two of the families involved were identified. The index case and her baby were isolated immediately after delivery, and the relevant rooms in the labour suite were adequately disinfected. No evidence of undisinfected equipment used by the index case and the other infected patients was found, and no spread to staff was detected. The mode of spread remains unknown.", "contents": "Spread of Salmonella typhi in a maternity hospital. An Asian patient with undiagnosed typhoid fever was admitted to a maternity hospital and delivered within 10 min. Salmonella typhi (phage type D5) was isolated from her blood and from the faeces of her baby. Another women in a different room of the labour suite at the same time acquired the same organism in her faeces; her brother was admitted to the Infectious Diseases Unit 5 weeks later with typhoid fever. Two babies, born over 60 h after the index case was delivered, became faecal excreters of the same strain and one of them also developed S. typhi osteitis of the hip. These two babies and their mothers were in the same ward as each other, but not that occupied by the infected mother and her baby. Nine other excreters in two of the families involved were identified. The index case and her baby were isolated immediately after delivery, and the relevant rooms in the labour suite were adequately disinfected. No evidence of undisinfected equipment used by the index case and the other infected patients was found, and no spread to staff was detected. The mode of spread remains unknown.", "PMID": 448063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8411", "title": "Evaluation of products for treating babies' napkins.", "content": "A test is described for assessing the sanitizing effect of napkin treatment products on naturally urine-wetted and faecally-contaminated napkins. This test defines in-use conditions which closely resemble typical domestic situations. One napkin treatment product ('Napisan'), tested at two different concentrations and with challenges of different numbers of babies' napkins, performed satisfactorily under the conditions used.", "contents": "Evaluation of products for treating babies' napkins. A test is described for assessing the sanitizing effect of napkin treatment products on naturally urine-wetted and faecally-contaminated napkins. This test defines in-use conditions which closely resemble typical domestic situations. One napkin treatment product ('Napisan'), tested at two different concentrations and with challenges of different numbers of babies' napkins, performed satisfactorily under the conditions used.", "PMID": 448064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8412", "title": "Antibody responses to vaccination with WRL 105 strain live influenza vaccine in previously vaccinated and unvaccinated volunteers.", "content": "Intranasal vaccination with a single 0.5 ml dose of 10(7.0) EID 50 WRL 105 strain live influenza vaccine elicited four-fold or greater increases in circulating homotypic haemagglutinating inhibiting (HAI) antibody in 60 (64.5%) of 93 volunteers, or in 58 (74.4%) of 78 volunteers with HAI antibody titres before vaccination of less than or equal to 1/20. In comparison, in a group of volunteers vaccinated 9 months previously re-vaccination elicited antibody responses in only 4 (6.9%) of 58 volunteers, or in 3 (14.3%) of 21 volunteers with antibody titres before vaccination of less than or equal to 1/20. Titres of vaccine-induced antibody and antibody resulting from earlier natural infection appeared to fall slowly and at equivalent rates over a 9 month period.", "contents": "Antibody responses to vaccination with WRL 105 strain live influenza vaccine in previously vaccinated and unvaccinated volunteers. Intranasal vaccination with a single 0.5 ml dose of 10(7.0) EID 50 WRL 105 strain live influenza vaccine elicited four-fold or greater increases in circulating homotypic haemagglutinating inhibiting (HAI) antibody in 60 (64.5%) of 93 volunteers, or in 58 (74.4%) of 78 volunteers with HAI antibody titres before vaccination of less than or equal to 1/20. In comparison, in a group of volunteers vaccinated 9 months previously re-vaccination elicited antibody responses in only 4 (6.9%) of 58 volunteers, or in 3 (14.3%) of 21 volunteers with antibody titres before vaccination of less than or equal to 1/20. Titres of vaccine-induced antibody and antibody resulting from earlier natural infection appeared to fall slowly and at equivalent rates over a 9 month period.", "PMID": 448065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8413", "title": "Delayed antimicrobial effects of skin disinfection by alcohol.", "content": "Aqueous suspensions of Staphylococcus aureus were deposited on a Millipore filter and then exposed for a few seconds to 70% ethyl alcohol. Viable counts of bacteria extracted from the filter immediately after exposure to alcohol, and, in replicate experiments, after a further period of 3 h, showed that the mean immediate reduction of 97.6% in viable counts after treatment with alcohol was followed by a further mean reduction of 67.1% in the further 3 h holding time; the same bacterial suspensions allowed to dry on Millipore filters without exposure to alcohol showed a significantly smaller mean reduction in viable counts (34.3%) during a further 3 h holding time. These findings support the view that the reported further fall in numbers of bacteria on hands while wearing gloves for 3 h after alcohol disinfection can be explained by sublethal damage to some of the bacteria, from which they can recover only if promptly inoculated on culture medium.", "contents": "Delayed antimicrobial effects of skin disinfection by alcohol. Aqueous suspensions of Staphylococcus aureus were deposited on a Millipore filter and then exposed for a few seconds to 70% ethyl alcohol. Viable counts of bacteria extracted from the filter immediately after exposure to alcohol, and, in replicate experiments, after a further period of 3 h, showed that the mean immediate reduction of 97.6% in viable counts after treatment with alcohol was followed by a further mean reduction of 67.1% in the further 3 h holding time; the same bacterial suspensions allowed to dry on Millipore filters without exposure to alcohol showed a significantly smaller mean reduction in viable counts (34.3%) during a further 3 h holding time. These findings support the view that the reported further fall in numbers of bacteria on hands while wearing gloves for 3 h after alcohol disinfection can be explained by sublethal damage to some of the bacteria, from which they can recover only if promptly inoculated on culture medium.", "PMID": 448066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8414", "title": "Discordance among cell-mediated cytolytic mechanisms in cancer patients: importance of the assay system.", "content": "ADCC and SCMC directed against Chang cell targets that are mediated by lymphocytes having properties characteristic of K cells were impaired in cancer patients. In contrast, ADCC directed against CRBC targets that is mediated by both K cells and macrophages was normal in cancer patients, whereas SCMC against CRBC that is mediated primarily by macrophages was increased. Thus, there was a discordance among cytotoxic mechanisms in cancer patients with K cell-mediated cytotoxic function being impaired and macrophage-mediated cytotoxicty being enhanced. Regression analysis suggested that these perturbations of cytotoxic function occurred independently. Cancer patients had an increased proportion of circulating macrophages and a decreased proportion of circulating macrophages and a decreased proportion of eosinophils, but these abnormalities did not correlate significantly with ADCC or SCMC.", "contents": "Discordance among cell-mediated cytolytic mechanisms in cancer patients: importance of the assay system. ADCC and SCMC directed against Chang cell targets that are mediated by lymphocytes having properties characteristic of K cells were impaired in cancer patients. In contrast, ADCC directed against CRBC targets that is mediated by both K cells and macrophages was normal in cancer patients, whereas SCMC against CRBC that is mediated primarily by macrophages was increased. Thus, there was a discordance among cytotoxic mechanisms in cancer patients with K cell-mediated cytotoxic function being impaired and macrophage-mediated cytotoxicty being enhanced. Regression analysis suggested that these perturbations of cytotoxic function occurred independently. Cancer patients had an increased proportion of circulating macrophages and a decreased proportion of circulating macrophages and a decreased proportion of eosinophils, but these abnormalities did not correlate significantly with ADCC or SCMC.", "PMID": 448067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8415", "title": "Identity of C3- and C5-receptors on lymphoid cells.", "content": "Tannic acid-treated SRBC, incubated with increasing concentrations of C5 (Etan-C5) can be attached to C3 receptor-carrying (Raji) cells. This binding is dependent on the amount of C5 on Etan-C5 and can be inhibited by pretreatment on the Raji cells with either C5 or C3. Similar inhibition by soluble C3 and C5, respectively, is obtained for the interaction between Raji cells and Etan-C3. In addition, the immune adherence reaction between Ehum and EAC1423b could be blocked by previous treatment of Ehum with C5 or C3. These results suggest the presence of binding sites for C5 on lymphoid cells and their identity with C3 receptors.", "contents": "Identity of C3- and C5-receptors on lymphoid cells. Tannic acid-treated SRBC, incubated with increasing concentrations of C5 (Etan-C5) can be attached to C3 receptor-carrying (Raji) cells. This binding is dependent on the amount of C5 on Etan-C5 and can be inhibited by pretreatment on the Raji cells with either C5 or C3. Similar inhibition by soluble C3 and C5, respectively, is obtained for the interaction between Raji cells and Etan-C3. In addition, the immune adherence reaction between Ehum and EAC1423b could be blocked by previous treatment of Ehum with C5 or C3. These results suggest the presence of binding sites for C5 on lymphoid cells and their identity with C3 receptors.", "PMID": 448068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8416", "title": "Immune-type interferon-induced transfer of viral resistance.", "content": "Mouse immune-type interferon (type II), a lymphokine, caused the transfer of viral resistance from mouse L cells to human WISH cells. The interferon was incapable of protecting WISH cells in the absence of L cells. The transfer of viral resistance occurred with interferon preparations of various specific activities, and was in proportion to the interferon concentration in the preparations. The transferred resistance had the characteristics of an interferon-induced antiviral state in that it was blocked by actinomycin D, effective against different types of viruses, and resulted from an action on the cell rather than on the virus. Mouse immune-type interferon was more efficient than virus-type (type I) at eliciting the transfer of protection. The transfer phenomenon may represent a mechanism for amplification of the interferon system as a host defense against viral infection. Further, it serves as a model for studying the mechanism of lymphokine-induced transfer of information between cells.", "contents": "Immune-type interferon-induced transfer of viral resistance. Mouse immune-type interferon (type II), a lymphokine, caused the transfer of viral resistance from mouse L cells to human WISH cells. The interferon was incapable of protecting WISH cells in the absence of L cells. The transfer of viral resistance occurred with interferon preparations of various specific activities, and was in proportion to the interferon concentration in the preparations. The transferred resistance had the characteristics of an interferon-induced antiviral state in that it was blocked by actinomycin D, effective against different types of viruses, and resulted from an action on the cell rather than on the virus. Mouse immune-type interferon was more efficient than virus-type (type I) at eliciting the transfer of protection. The transfer phenomenon may represent a mechanism for amplification of the interferon system as a host defense against viral infection. Further, it serves as a model for studying the mechanism of lymphokine-induced transfer of information between cells.", "PMID": 448069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8417", "title": "Release of E-rosette augmenting factor (E-RAF) after stimulation of human leukocytes with mitogens or antigens.", "content": "Stimulation of human peripheral blood leukocytes (HPBL) with mitogens such as phytohemagglutinin or concanavalin A increases the total number of lymphocytes that form rosettes with sheep erythrocytes. A similar effect is seen when HPBL from skin test-positive, but not skin test-negative, donors are stimulated by a specific antigen. It was also found that the culture fluids from mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes contained a substance that significantly increased the percentage of E-rosette forming cells (85 to 95%) over that of control culture fluids (40%). A similar phenomenon was also observed with supernatant fluids derived from antigenic stimulation of cells from skin test-positive donors, but not from skin test-negative subjects. The factor that produces this effect has been designated E-rosette augmenting factor (E-RAF). It is nondialyzable; it appears in the supernatants of antigen or mitogen-stimulated cells within 12 hr; and its production is not blocked by mitomycin C. It is produced by cells that do not adhere to glass wool columns and by mitogen-stimulated thymocytes. Sephadex G-100 chromatography showed that mitogen-induced E-RAF eluted from the column in advance of antigen-induced E-RAF. E-RAF has many properties that are characteristic of lymphokines.", "contents": "Release of E-rosette augmenting factor (E-RAF) after stimulation of human leukocytes with mitogens or antigens. Stimulation of human peripheral blood leukocytes (HPBL) with mitogens such as phytohemagglutinin or concanavalin A increases the total number of lymphocytes that form rosettes with sheep erythrocytes. A similar effect is seen when HPBL from skin test-positive, but not skin test-negative, donors are stimulated by a specific antigen. It was also found that the culture fluids from mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes contained a substance that significantly increased the percentage of E-rosette forming cells (85 to 95%) over that of control culture fluids (40%). A similar phenomenon was also observed with supernatant fluids derived from antigenic stimulation of cells from skin test-positive donors, but not from skin test-negative subjects. The factor that produces this effect has been designated E-rosette augmenting factor (E-RAF). It is nondialyzable; it appears in the supernatants of antigen or mitogen-stimulated cells within 12 hr; and its production is not blocked by mitomycin C. It is produced by cells that do not adhere to glass wool columns and by mitogen-stimulated thymocytes. Sephadex G-100 chromatography showed that mitogen-induced E-RAF eluted from the column in advance of antigen-induced E-RAF. E-RAF has many properties that are characteristic of lymphokines.", "PMID": 448070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8418", "title": "Human transfer factors: structural properties suggested by HPRP chromatography and enzymatic sensitivities.", "content": "Leukocyte extracts containing human transfer factor (TF) were fractionated by exclusion chromatography, and the active fraction (Sephadex G25, Fraction IIIa) was subjected to high pressure, reverse phase (HPRP) chromatography and enzymatic degradation. TF activity was assessed by the systemic transfer of dermal skin test reactivity from KLH-immunized donors to naive recipients. Preparative HPRP chromatography resolved Fraction IIIa into multiple chromophoric regions, two of which demonstrated transfer of KLH reactivity. Alkaline phosphatase treatment of Fraction IIIa converted the major ultraviolet-absorbing component, 5'-inosine monophosphate, to inosine and resulted in TF activity being restricted to one region. This HPRP region (R1A) contained less than 1% of the UV254 active material in Fraction IIIa but greater than 90% of the reactivity. The sensitivity of TF to pronase, proteinase K, phosphodiesterase I, and phosphodiesterase II was evaluated by inhibition of systemic transfer of KLH reactivity. Pronase and proteinase K destroyed systemic transfer activity and the pronase destruction could be inhibited with traysylol. Phosphodiesterase I, a 3' exonuclease, destroyed activity, whereas phosphodiesterase II, a 5' exonuclease, did not. The data are consistent with a phosphodiester-containing polypeptide in the structure of human TF for KLH reactivity.", "contents": "Human transfer factors: structural properties suggested by HPRP chromatography and enzymatic sensitivities. Leukocyte extracts containing human transfer factor (TF) were fractionated by exclusion chromatography, and the active fraction (Sephadex G25, Fraction IIIa) was subjected to high pressure, reverse phase (HPRP) chromatography and enzymatic degradation. TF activity was assessed by the systemic transfer of dermal skin test reactivity from KLH-immunized donors to naive recipients. Preparative HPRP chromatography resolved Fraction IIIa into multiple chromophoric regions, two of which demonstrated transfer of KLH reactivity. Alkaline phosphatase treatment of Fraction IIIa converted the major ultraviolet-absorbing component, 5'-inosine monophosphate, to inosine and resulted in TF activity being restricted to one region. This HPRP region (R1A) contained less than 1% of the UV254 active material in Fraction IIIa but greater than 90% of the reactivity. The sensitivity of TF to pronase, proteinase K, phosphodiesterase I, and phosphodiesterase II was evaluated by inhibition of systemic transfer of KLH reactivity. Pronase and proteinase K destroyed systemic transfer activity and the pronase destruction could be inhibited with traysylol. Phosphodiesterase I, a 3' exonuclease, destroyed activity, whereas phosphodiesterase II, a 5' exonuclease, did not. The data are consistent with a phosphodiester-containing polypeptide in the structure of human TF for KLH reactivity.", "PMID": 448071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8419", "title": "The role of monocytes in human lymphocyte activation by mitogens.", "content": "Studies were performed to determine the role of monocytes in human lymphocyte activation by mitogens. Velocity sedimentation at 1 x G in a new apparatus was utilized to obtain highly purified lymphocyte fractions (LF) nearly free of monocytes (0.02 to 0.4%) and a fraction (MF) enriched for monocytes (64 to 92%). The average peak responses of the lymphocyte fractions to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen were 19, 10, and 9% of the responses achieved with unfractionated lymphocyte cultures containing approximately 20% monocytes. These changes were not attributable to altered dose requirements. When mitomycin-C-treated MF cells were used to reconstitute LF cultures, it was found that 4% monocytes fully restored the response to phytohemagglutinin whereas 8 to 16% monocytes were required for a normal response to the other mitogens. Higher numbers of MF cells produced supranormal responses, with 35 to 50% monocytes resulting in the optimal stimulation. Allogeneic monocytes were able to fully reconstitute the response of LF, and 2-mercaptoethanol (50 microM) was only slightly effective. In exploring possible mechanisms by which monocytes potentiate the mitogenic activity of lymphocytes, it was found that the supernatants of MF cultures could partially, but not completely, reconstitute LF responses, suggesting that contact with MF may be required for optimal effectiveness. Addition of graded numbers of monocytes to LF altered both the kinetics of the response and the peak level of proliferation. Monocyte depletion also resulted in markedly decreased survival of cultured unstimulated LF. These observations suggest a variety of possible effects of monocytes in potentiating mitogenic responses, including contact-mediated interactions with lymphocytes (possibly to present the mitogen optimally); enhancement of proliferation kinetics and the size of the responding subpopulation, and maintenance of a requisite growth factor(s) in the culture. Small differences in the monocyte content of cultured lymphocyte preparations may thus account for many of the often observed variations in mitogen responsiveness.", "contents": "The role of monocytes in human lymphocyte activation by mitogens. Studies were performed to determine the role of monocytes in human lymphocyte activation by mitogens. Velocity sedimentation at 1 x G in a new apparatus was utilized to obtain highly purified lymphocyte fractions (LF) nearly free of monocytes (0.02 to 0.4%) and a fraction (MF) enriched for monocytes (64 to 92%). The average peak responses of the lymphocyte fractions to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen were 19, 10, and 9% of the responses achieved with unfractionated lymphocyte cultures containing approximately 20% monocytes. These changes were not attributable to altered dose requirements. When mitomycin-C-treated MF cells were used to reconstitute LF cultures, it was found that 4% monocytes fully restored the response to phytohemagglutinin whereas 8 to 16% monocytes were required for a normal response to the other mitogens. Higher numbers of MF cells produced supranormal responses, with 35 to 50% monocytes resulting in the optimal stimulation. Allogeneic monocytes were able to fully reconstitute the response of LF, and 2-mercaptoethanol (50 microM) was only slightly effective. In exploring possible mechanisms by which monocytes potentiate the mitogenic activity of lymphocytes, it was found that the supernatants of MF cultures could partially, but not completely, reconstitute LF responses, suggesting that contact with MF may be required for optimal effectiveness. Addition of graded numbers of monocytes to LF altered both the kinetics of the response and the peak level of proliferation. Monocyte depletion also resulted in markedly decreased survival of cultured unstimulated LF. These observations suggest a variety of possible effects of monocytes in potentiating mitogenic responses, including contact-mediated interactions with lymphocytes (possibly to present the mitogen optimally); enhancement of proliferation kinetics and the size of the responding subpopulation, and maintenance of a requisite growth factor(s) in the culture. Small differences in the monocyte content of cultured lymphocyte preparations may thus account for many of the often observed variations in mitogen responsiveness.", "PMID": 448072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8420", "title": "Mechanisms of lipopolysaccharide-initiated rabbit platelet responses. II. Evidence that lipid A is responsible for binding of lipopolysaccharide to the platelet.", "content": "The mechanism of bacterial lipopolysaccharide-(LPS) initiated, complement-(C) mediated rabbit platelet lysis has been examined. The results of these studies support our previous observations that activation of the alternative C pathway is required for platelet lysis and that preparations of LPS that activate only the classical pathway (e.g., lipid A) do not cause lysis. The temporal relationship of the interaction of the LPS with the platelet before the addition of plasma suggests a time-dependent association of the LPS with the platelet. On the basis of a number of experiments, including inhibition with polymyxin B, treatment of LPS with alkali, and blocking experiments with polysaccharide-free LPS preparations, it is concluded that the lipid A region of the LPS molecule is responsible for attaching the LPS to the platelet. Finally, a comparison of the activity of lipid A-associated protein-LPS complexes with protein-free LPS demonstrated that an equivalent extent of platelet lysis was achieved with one-one hundredth the concentration of the former as that required for protein-free LPS. The data suggest that LAP facilitates attachment of the LPS to the platelet.", "contents": "Mechanisms of lipopolysaccharide-initiated rabbit platelet responses. II. Evidence that lipid A is responsible for binding of lipopolysaccharide to the platelet. The mechanism of bacterial lipopolysaccharide-(LPS) initiated, complement-(C) mediated rabbit platelet lysis has been examined. The results of these studies support our previous observations that activation of the alternative C pathway is required for platelet lysis and that preparations of LPS that activate only the classical pathway (e.g., lipid A) do not cause lysis. The temporal relationship of the interaction of the LPS with the platelet before the addition of plasma suggests a time-dependent association of the LPS with the platelet. On the basis of a number of experiments, including inhibition with polymyxin B, treatment of LPS with alkali, and blocking experiments with polysaccharide-free LPS preparations, it is concluded that the lipid A region of the LPS molecule is responsible for attaching the LPS to the platelet. Finally, a comparison of the activity of lipid A-associated protein-LPS complexes with protein-free LPS demonstrated that an equivalent extent of platelet lysis was achieved with one-one hundredth the concentration of the former as that required for protein-free LPS. The data suggest that LAP facilitates attachment of the LPS to the platelet.", "PMID": 448073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8421", "title": "Action of the C3b-inactivator on the cell-bound C3b.", "content": "The action of C3bINA and beta 1H on cell-bound C3b is described in this paper. The alpha-polypeptide of C3b that binds covalently to cell surfaces is cleaved by the C3bINA and beta 1H into two fragments: one of 60,000 (C3b alpha-60) and another of 40,000 (C3b alpha-40) daltons. The beta-chain of C3b is unaffected by the C3bINA and beta 1H. The three polypeptides, C3b alpha-60, C3b alpha-40, and C3 beta, are held together as a single unit by disulfide bonds. This unit, referred to as C3b' is covalently bound to cell surfaces via the C3b alpha-60 polypeptide. The conversion of C3b to C3b' by C3bINA and beta 1H abolishes the ability of the C3b-bearing cells to adhere to human erythrocytes as well as the ability to form, on the cell surface, the B, D, and properdin-dependent amplification C3-convertase. However, the agglutinability of the cells with either anti-C3c or anti-C3d is not affected. Treatment of the C3b'-bearing cells with trypsin releases fragments of C3b' into solution, leaving a polypeptide of 32,000 daltons covalently linked to the membrane. Since the trypsinized cells are agglutinable by anti-C3d but not by anti-C3c, the 32,000 dalton polypeptide appears to correspond antigenically to C3d.", "contents": "Action of the C3b-inactivator on the cell-bound C3b. The action of C3bINA and beta 1H on cell-bound C3b is described in this paper. The alpha-polypeptide of C3b that binds covalently to cell surfaces is cleaved by the C3bINA and beta 1H into two fragments: one of 60,000 (C3b alpha-60) and another of 40,000 (C3b alpha-40) daltons. The beta-chain of C3b is unaffected by the C3bINA and beta 1H. The three polypeptides, C3b alpha-60, C3b alpha-40, and C3 beta, are held together as a single unit by disulfide bonds. This unit, referred to as C3b' is covalently bound to cell surfaces via the C3b alpha-60 polypeptide. The conversion of C3b to C3b' by C3bINA and beta 1H abolishes the ability of the C3b-bearing cells to adhere to human erythrocytes as well as the ability to form, on the cell surface, the B, D, and properdin-dependent amplification C3-convertase. However, the agglutinability of the cells with either anti-C3c or anti-C3d is not affected. Treatment of the C3b'-bearing cells with trypsin releases fragments of C3b' into solution, leaving a polypeptide of 32,000 daltons covalently linked to the membrane. Since the trypsinized cells are agglutinable by anti-C3d but not by anti-C3c, the 32,000 dalton polypeptide appears to correspond antigenically to C3d.", "PMID": 448074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8422", "title": "Activation of the classical pathway of complement by the C3NeF-stabilized cell-bound amplification convertase.", "content": "C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF) has been shown to be composed of two heavy and two light chains, like IgG; in addition it shares antigenic determinants with IgG. C3NeF, purified from the sera of eight patients by incorporation of C3NeF into the stabilized fluid phase amplification C3 convertase, C3bBb(C3NeF), followed by its release after decay of convertase function, was investigated for its ability to bind 125I-C1q and to activate 125I-C1. It was found that although fluid phase C3b,Bb(C3NeF) is fully capable of binding 125I-C1q, it is not able to activate 125I-C1 even at concentrations of 1.3 x 10(12) C3bBb(C3NeF) complexs/ml. On the other hand, cell-bound C3bBb(C3NeF) is capable of both binding 125I-C1q and activating 125I-C1. This discrepancy between fluid phase and cell-bound, C3bBb(C3NeF) was found for C3NeF preparations from eight different patients and therefore seems to apply to all C3NeF preparations.", "contents": "Activation of the classical pathway of complement by the C3NeF-stabilized cell-bound amplification convertase. C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF) has been shown to be composed of two heavy and two light chains, like IgG; in addition it shares antigenic determinants with IgG. C3NeF, purified from the sera of eight patients by incorporation of C3NeF into the stabilized fluid phase amplification C3 convertase, C3bBb(C3NeF), followed by its release after decay of convertase function, was investigated for its ability to bind 125I-C1q and to activate 125I-C1. It was found that although fluid phase C3b,Bb(C3NeF) is fully capable of binding 125I-C1q, it is not able to activate 125I-C1 even at concentrations of 1.3 x 10(12) C3bBb(C3NeF) complexs/ml. On the other hand, cell-bound C3bBb(C3NeF) is capable of both binding 125I-C1q and activating 125I-C1. This discrepancy between fluid phase and cell-bound, C3bBb(C3NeF) was found for C3NeF preparations from eight different patients and therefore seems to apply to all C3NeF preparations.", "PMID": 448075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8423", "title": "A reexamination of humoral tolerance in chickens congenitally infected with an avian leukosis virus.", "content": "In a reexamination of congenital infection of chickens with ALV, one of the classical models of immunologic tolerance, we were unable to demonstrate that there was any evidence suggesting humoral immune reactivity to the infecting virus. In ALV-F42 congenitally infected birds that have a persistent viremia and no neutralizing antibody detectable by conventional means, we could find no evidence of host IgG deposits in the kidneys, nor any suggestion of renal pathology, or damage. In addition, attempts to precipitate any putative circulating infections virus-antibody complexes by treatment with a highly specific anti-globulin were negative nor were there titer differences in the viremic plasmas of bursectomized birds compared to nonbursectomized birds, indicating that the chickens were not making either a masked neutralizing or a nonneutralizing antibody response to the infecting virus. The evidence presented indicates that congenital infection of chickens with ALV does, at least at the humoral level, result in a state of immunologic tolerance to the infecting agent.", "contents": "A reexamination of humoral tolerance in chickens congenitally infected with an avian leukosis virus. In a reexamination of congenital infection of chickens with ALV, one of the classical models of immunologic tolerance, we were unable to demonstrate that there was any evidence suggesting humoral immune reactivity to the infecting virus. In ALV-F42 congenitally infected birds that have a persistent viremia and no neutralizing antibody detectable by conventional means, we could find no evidence of host IgG deposits in the kidneys, nor any suggestion of renal pathology, or damage. In addition, attempts to precipitate any putative circulating infections virus-antibody complexes by treatment with a highly specific anti-globulin were negative nor were there titer differences in the viremic plasmas of bursectomized birds compared to nonbursectomized birds, indicating that the chickens were not making either a masked neutralizing or a nonneutralizing antibody response to the infecting virus. The evidence presented indicates that congenital infection of chickens with ALV does, at least at the humoral level, result in a state of immunologic tolerance to the infecting agent.", "PMID": 448076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8424", "title": "Some quantitative aspects of the passive sensitization of human basophils.", "content": "We review the theory for the binding of IgE to Fc receptors on basophil surfaces. We then use the theory to analyze binding experiments of Malveaux et al. and T. Ishizaka on the passive sensitization of basophils from a patient with chronic myelocytic leukemia and 75% basophilia. From their data we determine that the forward rate constant for the binding of human IgE to receptors on these human basophils is (3.0 +/- 1.0) x 10(4) M-1 sec-1.", "contents": "Some quantitative aspects of the passive sensitization of human basophils. We review the theory for the binding of IgE to Fc receptors on basophil surfaces. We then use the theory to analyze binding experiments of Malveaux et al. and T. Ishizaka on the passive sensitization of basophils from a patient with chronic myelocytic leukemia and 75% basophilia. From their data we determine that the forward rate constant for the binding of human IgE to receptors on these human basophils is (3.0 +/- 1.0) x 10(4) M-1 sec-1.", "PMID": 448077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8425", "title": "Intestinal goblet cell mucus release. II. In vivo stimulation by antigen in the immunized rat.", "content": "We previously reported that the infusion of certain soluble immune complexes stimulated mucus release from the rat small intestine in vivo. The present studies sought to evaluate the response of the intestine of normal and immunized rats to the infusion of antigen alone. One hour after the intraduodenal infusion of antigen, small intestinal washings were obtained and analyzed for the presence of 35S-labeled, high m.w. glycoprotein of goblet cell origin. The amount of goblet cell glycoprotein released was estimated from the radioactivity present in the void volume of a Sepharose 4B gel filtration column. The release of goblet cell mucus was enhanced by antigen stimulation in orally immunized animals. The discharge of goblet cell mucus was not increased after antigen infusion in animals immunized by the i.p. route despite the induction of high levels of serum antibody. The inability to demonstrate release of mucus after antigen challenge in systemically immunized rats suggests that the amount or the type(s) of antibody required at the mucosal surface is produced only after oral immunization.", "contents": "Intestinal goblet cell mucus release. II. In vivo stimulation by antigen in the immunized rat. We previously reported that the infusion of certain soluble immune complexes stimulated mucus release from the rat small intestine in vivo. The present studies sought to evaluate the response of the intestine of normal and immunized rats to the infusion of antigen alone. One hour after the intraduodenal infusion of antigen, small intestinal washings were obtained and analyzed for the presence of 35S-labeled, high m.w. glycoprotein of goblet cell origin. The amount of goblet cell glycoprotein released was estimated from the radioactivity present in the void volume of a Sepharose 4B gel filtration column. The release of goblet cell mucus was enhanced by antigen stimulation in orally immunized animals. The discharge of goblet cell mucus was not increased after antigen infusion in animals immunized by the i.p. route despite the induction of high levels of serum antibody. The inability to demonstrate release of mucus after antigen challenge in systemically immunized rats suggests that the amount or the type(s) of antibody required at the mucosal surface is produced only after oral immunization.", "PMID": 448078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8426", "title": "Turnover and shedding of Ia antigens by murine spleen cells in culture.", "content": "Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed radioiodination was used to examine the metabolic fate of surface Ia antigens on murine spleen cells in culture. Ia antigens, detected predominately on splenic B lymphocytes, were lost from the cultured cells with biphasic kinetics: a 4 to 6 hr rapid phase, t 1/2 = 5 hr followed by slow release through 20 hr, t 1/2 = 30 hr. The rapid loss of Ia antigens observed was abolished by both harsh iodination conditions and nonphysiologic incubation conditions. The rapid decline in Ia activity was shown to be due to shedding of intact Ia antigens from the cell and to predominant release of IA subregion-coded proteins. Release of Ia antigens from the cell was accomplished by replacement at the cell surface, and thus reflected net membrane Ia turnover. Ia shedding was shown to be extremely temperature dependent, reflecting both a comparatively high activation enthalpy and entropy requirement for turnover.", "contents": "Turnover and shedding of Ia antigens by murine spleen cells in culture. Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed radioiodination was used to examine the metabolic fate of surface Ia antigens on murine spleen cells in culture. Ia antigens, detected predominately on splenic B lymphocytes, were lost from the cultured cells with biphasic kinetics: a 4 to 6 hr rapid phase, t 1/2 = 5 hr followed by slow release through 20 hr, t 1/2 = 30 hr. The rapid loss of Ia antigens observed was abolished by both harsh iodination conditions and nonphysiologic incubation conditions. The rapid decline in Ia activity was shown to be due to shedding of intact Ia antigens from the cell and to predominant release of IA subregion-coded proteins. Release of Ia antigens from the cell was accomplished by replacement at the cell surface, and thus reflected net membrane Ia turnover. Ia shedding was shown to be extremely temperature dependent, reflecting both a comparatively high activation enthalpy and entropy requirement for turnover.", "PMID": 448081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8427", "title": "Monocyte dependence of pokeweed mitogen-induced differentiation of immunoglobulin-secreting cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.", "content": "Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM) lost the capacity to generate immunoglobulin-secreting cells (ISC) in response to pokeweed mitogen (PWM) when depleted of adherent cells (AC). The diminished responsiveness of the nonadherent cells (NAC) could not be ascribed to cell death, altered PWM dose response characteristics, or a change in the length of incubation required to generate a response. Supplementation with autologous or homologous AC, but not 2-mercaptoethanol, restored the capacity of NAC to generate ISC after PWM stimulation. By standard criteria AC were found to contain 85 to 90% monocytes. Furthermore, the monocytes and not the few lymphocytes contaminating the AC were responsible for restoring PWM responsiveness to the NAC. PWM-induced DNA synthesis of NAC also was markedly reduced compared to PBM. Again, supplementation with monocytes restored responsiveness to NAC. The monocyte dependence of PWM-induced proliferation and generation of ISC was most apparent when cultural conditions were employed that limited cell-to-cell interaction.", "contents": "Monocyte dependence of pokeweed mitogen-induced differentiation of immunoglobulin-secreting cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM) lost the capacity to generate immunoglobulin-secreting cells (ISC) in response to pokeweed mitogen (PWM) when depleted of adherent cells (AC). The diminished responsiveness of the nonadherent cells (NAC) could not be ascribed to cell death, altered PWM dose response characteristics, or a change in the length of incubation required to generate a response. Supplementation with autologous or homologous AC, but not 2-mercaptoethanol, restored the capacity of NAC to generate ISC after PWM stimulation. By standard criteria AC were found to contain 85 to 90% monocytes. Furthermore, the monocytes and not the few lymphocytes contaminating the AC were responsible for restoring PWM responsiveness to the NAC. PWM-induced DNA synthesis of NAC also was markedly reduced compared to PBM. Again, supplementation with monocytes restored responsiveness to NAC. The monocyte dependence of PWM-induced proliferation and generation of ISC was most apparent when cultural conditions were employed that limited cell-to-cell interaction.", "PMID": 448083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8428", "title": "Interactions of C-reactive protein and complement with liposomes. II. Influence of membrane composition.", "content": "We found previoulsy that interaction of C-reactive protein (CRP) with liposomal model membranes resulted in complement(C)-dependent membrane damage. In the present study, we investigated the influence of membrane composition on the interactions of CRP and C with liposomes. Adsorption experiments showed that binding of CRP was greatest to strongly positive liposomes. A lesser, but still substantial, extent of CRP binding also was observed with negative liposomes, but negligible amounts of CRP bound to neutral or weakly positive liposomes. CRP-mediated consumption of hemolytic C, and C-dependent glucose release from liposomes both were strongly influenced by liposomal charge, positive being superior to negative. Glucose release and, to a lesser extent, consumption of hemolytic C were inversely related to phospholipid fatty acyl chain length. Phospholipid fatty acyl unsaturation and liposomal cholesterol concentration both had strong influences on C consumption and glucose release. The data suggest that CRP-mediated C consumption and membrane damage require an optimum membrane fluidity. Complement damage in the presence of CRP was enhanced by certain sphingolipids and also by digalactosyl diglyceride, but not by sphingomyelin. Our results thus demonstrate that CRP-mediated C consumption and C-dependent membrane damage both are influenced by the liposomal membrane composition.", "contents": "Interactions of C-reactive protein and complement with liposomes. II. Influence of membrane composition. We found previoulsy that interaction of C-reactive protein (CRP) with liposomal model membranes resulted in complement(C)-dependent membrane damage. In the present study, we investigated the influence of membrane composition on the interactions of CRP and C with liposomes. Adsorption experiments showed that binding of CRP was greatest to strongly positive liposomes. A lesser, but still substantial, extent of CRP binding also was observed with negative liposomes, but negligible amounts of CRP bound to neutral or weakly positive liposomes. CRP-mediated consumption of hemolytic C, and C-dependent glucose release from liposomes both were strongly influenced by liposomal charge, positive being superior to negative. Glucose release and, to a lesser extent, consumption of hemolytic C were inversely related to phospholipid fatty acyl chain length. Phospholipid fatty acyl unsaturation and liposomal cholesterol concentration both had strong influences on C consumption and glucose release. The data suggest that CRP-mediated C consumption and membrane damage require an optimum membrane fluidity. Complement damage in the presence of CRP was enhanced by certain sphingolipids and also by digalactosyl diglyceride, but not by sphingomyelin. Our results thus demonstrate that CRP-mediated C consumption and C-dependent membrane damage both are influenced by the liposomal membrane composition.", "PMID": 448084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8429", "title": "Studies on the terminal stages of immune hemolysis. IV. Effect of metal salts.", "content": "The inhibitory effect of metal salts on the formation and transformation of E to ghosts was studied. Ferrous and ferric salts inhibited the binding of C9 to EAC1-8 cells but had no other inhibitory role in the reaction. Uranly, copper, and zinc salts inhibited the transformation of the EAC1-9inserted intermediate to E ghosts. This inhibition occurred at a stage prior to detectable damage as measured by 86Rb or hemoglobin release and at a step prior to that inhibitable by high molarity EDTA. Consequently a further step in the reaction sequence of E to ghosts was identified. The reaction sequence leading from EAC1-9 to ghosts can be summarized as follows: formula: (see text).", "contents": "Studies on the terminal stages of immune hemolysis. IV. Effect of metal salts. The inhibitory effect of metal salts on the formation and transformation of E to ghosts was studied. Ferrous and ferric salts inhibited the binding of C9 to EAC1-8 cells but had no other inhibitory role in the reaction. Uranly, copper, and zinc salts inhibited the transformation of the EAC1-9inserted intermediate to E ghosts. This inhibition occurred at a stage prior to detectable damage as measured by 86Rb or hemoglobin release and at a step prior to that inhibitable by high molarity EDTA. Consequently a further step in the reaction sequence of E to ghosts was identified. The reaction sequence leading from EAC1-9 to ghosts can be summarized as follows: formula: (see text).", "PMID": 448086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8430", "title": "A new method for the purification of human eosinophils and neutrophils, and a comparison of the ability of these cells to damage schistosomula of Schistosoma mansoni.", "content": "Centrifugation of human white blood cells over either Ficoll-Hypaque or slightly hypertonic Metrizamide discontinuous gradients reliably produces separate fractions that are enriched for either neutrophilic or eosinophilic granulocytes. This single step purification routinely yields 90 to 100% pure neutrophils and 85 to 100% pure eosinophils. Metrizamide gradients, in particular, reproducibly provide high yields of 90 to 100% pure eosinophils from normal subjects with 2 to 3% eosinophils in their peripheral blood. The method does not damage cells as judged by morphologic or functional criteria. The purified cell populations were tested for their ability to damage antibody-coated schistosomula either by the measurement of 51Cr release from labeled organisms, or by direct morphologic assessment. Neutrophils were superior in their ability to release 51Cr from labeled organisms, but eosinophils adhered to the organisms to a greater extent and induced microscopically detectable damage.", "contents": "A new method for the purification of human eosinophils and neutrophils, and a comparison of the ability of these cells to damage schistosomula of Schistosoma mansoni. Centrifugation of human white blood cells over either Ficoll-Hypaque or slightly hypertonic Metrizamide discontinuous gradients reliably produces separate fractions that are enriched for either neutrophilic or eosinophilic granulocytes. This single step purification routinely yields 90 to 100% pure neutrophils and 85 to 100% pure eosinophils. Metrizamide gradients, in particular, reproducibly provide high yields of 90 to 100% pure eosinophils from normal subjects with 2 to 3% eosinophils in their peripheral blood. The method does not damage cells as judged by morphologic or functional criteria. The purified cell populations were tested for their ability to damage antibody-coated schistosomula either by the measurement of 51Cr release from labeled organisms, or by direct morphologic assessment. Neutrophils were superior in their ability to release 51Cr from labeled organisms, but eosinophils adhered to the organisms to a greater extent and induced microscopically detectable damage.", "PMID": 448088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8431", "title": "Activation of human complement by liposomes: a model for membrane activation of the alternative pathway.", "content": "Liposomal model membranes were found to activate the alternative pathway of human complement. Activation was measured by C3 conversion and component consumption in serum that had been incubated with liposomes. C3 conversion did not require C1 or C2 of the classical pathway, since it was observed in serum from a C1r-deficient patient, serum from a C2-dificient patient, and normal serum in buffer containing EGTA and MgCl2. The incubation of liposomes with C2-deficient serum resulted in consumption of components C3 through C9 with no consumption of C1 or C4 in a profile typical of alternative pathwya activation. The reaction was further shown to require alternative pathway factor D, and to be independent of antibody. Activation of the alterative pathway was dependent on the membrane composition of the liposomes. A positive charge was required for liposomes to produce C3 conversion. Liposomal cholesterol concentration and phospholipid fatty acyl chain length and unsaturation all influenced activation, suggesting the importance of membrane fluidity. Positively charged liposomes containing dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol required the presence of certain glycolipids for C3 conversion. The activation of the alternative complement pathway by liposomes of defined membrane composition may provide a suitable model for the study of alternative pathway activation by cellular membranes.", "contents": "Activation of human complement by liposomes: a model for membrane activation of the alternative pathway. Liposomal model membranes were found to activate the alternative pathway of human complement. Activation was measured by C3 conversion and component consumption in serum that had been incubated with liposomes. C3 conversion did not require C1 or C2 of the classical pathway, since it was observed in serum from a C1r-deficient patient, serum from a C2-dificient patient, and normal serum in buffer containing EGTA and MgCl2. The incubation of liposomes with C2-deficient serum resulted in consumption of components C3 through C9 with no consumption of C1 or C4 in a profile typical of alternative pathwya activation. The reaction was further shown to require alternative pathway factor D, and to be independent of antibody. Activation of the alterative pathway was dependent on the membrane composition of the liposomes. A positive charge was required for liposomes to produce C3 conversion. Liposomal cholesterol concentration and phospholipid fatty acyl chain length and unsaturation all influenced activation, suggesting the importance of membrane fluidity. Positively charged liposomes containing dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol required the presence of certain glycolipids for C3 conversion. The activation of the alternative complement pathway by liposomes of defined membrane composition may provide a suitable model for the study of alternative pathway activation by cellular membranes.", "PMID": 448089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8432", "title": "Isolation of a sperm membrane sialoglycoprotein autoantigen from rabbit testes.", "content": "A single rabbit sperm membrane autoantigen has been isolated from rabbit testes by immunoadsorbent chromatography, agarose chromatography, and electrophoresis. This rabbit sperm autoantigen (RSA-1) is located in the sperm plasma membrane and blocks the sperm cytotoxic (immobilizing) activity of autoantisera. RSA-1 is a sialoglycoprotein, approximately 40% carbohydrate and containing 0.2 micrograms sialic acid/microgram protein. Its m.w. is estimated at 13,000 +/- 1200 by SDA-PAGE. RSA-1 can self-aggregate into higher m.w. forms. Approximately 0.6 mg of RSA-1 can be isolated from 100 rabbits testes. The isolated RSA-1 shows a 300-fold increase in specific cytotoxic (immobilizing) inhibitory activity over the starting testis pellet material.", "contents": "Isolation of a sperm membrane sialoglycoprotein autoantigen from rabbit testes. A single rabbit sperm membrane autoantigen has been isolated from rabbit testes by immunoadsorbent chromatography, agarose chromatography, and electrophoresis. This rabbit sperm autoantigen (RSA-1) is located in the sperm plasma membrane and blocks the sperm cytotoxic (immobilizing) activity of autoantisera. RSA-1 is a sialoglycoprotein, approximately 40% carbohydrate and containing 0.2 micrograms sialic acid/microgram protein. Its m.w. is estimated at 13,000 +/- 1200 by SDA-PAGE. RSA-1 can self-aggregate into higher m.w. forms. Approximately 0.6 mg of RSA-1 can be isolated from 100 rabbits testes. The isolated RSA-1 shows a 300-fold increase in specific cytotoxic (immobilizing) inhibitory activity over the starting testis pellet material.", "PMID": 448090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8433", "title": "Two spontaneous BALB/c lymphomas synthesize IgM: monomers and half molecules are isolated and characterized whereas another molecule resembles IgD.", "content": "Spontaneous lymphomas of BALB/c mice, both in vivo tumors and cell lines established in long term tissue cultures, were investigated for their ability to synthesize IgM by using radiolabeled amino acid precursors. Immunoglobulins manufactured by lymphomas K46 and L10A had the m.w. of monomeric IgM and IgM half molecule. Both of these molecules could be immunoprecipitated with class-specific anti-IgM but not anti-IgA or anti-IgG. When precipitated with polyvalent anti-Ig L10A synthesized monomeric immunoglobulins that migrated as two peaks in contrast to their single counterpart precipitated with anti-IgM. The second peak migrated in the region expected for IgD. Monomer and half molecules were composed of similar ratios of mu-chains to light chains linked by disulfide bonds. The mu2L2 monomer of these B cell lines migrated slightly slower in SDS PAGE than a mu2L2 secreted by a myeloma. Thus, these lymphomas synthesize immunoglobulins with the chemical and antigenic characteristics typical of monomeric membrane-attached IgM and IgM half molecules, plus a molecule resembling IgD on L10A only. Lymphoma assembly of monomeric IgM may follow the same initial biosynthetic sequence as myeloma assembly.", "contents": "Two spontaneous BALB/c lymphomas synthesize IgM: monomers and half molecules are isolated and characterized whereas another molecule resembles IgD. Spontaneous lymphomas of BALB/c mice, both in vivo tumors and cell lines established in long term tissue cultures, were investigated for their ability to synthesize IgM by using radiolabeled amino acid precursors. Immunoglobulins manufactured by lymphomas K46 and L10A had the m.w. of monomeric IgM and IgM half molecule. Both of these molecules could be immunoprecipitated with class-specific anti-IgM but not anti-IgA or anti-IgG. When precipitated with polyvalent anti-Ig L10A synthesized monomeric immunoglobulins that migrated as two peaks in contrast to their single counterpart precipitated with anti-IgM. The second peak migrated in the region expected for IgD. Monomer and half molecules were composed of similar ratios of mu-chains to light chains linked by disulfide bonds. The mu2L2 monomer of these B cell lines migrated slightly slower in SDS PAGE than a mu2L2 secreted by a myeloma. Thus, these lymphomas synthesize immunoglobulins with the chemical and antigenic characteristics typical of monomeric membrane-attached IgM and IgM half molecules, plus a molecule resembling IgD on L10A only. Lymphoma assembly of monomeric IgM may follow the same initial biosynthetic sequence as myeloma assembly.", "PMID": 448091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8434", "title": "Genetic study of mouse sensitivity to MHV3 infection: influence of the H-2 complex.", "content": "Genetic study of acute and chronic mouse hepatitis virus type 3 disease was carried out in segregating generations of a cross involving a susceptible (C57BL/6) and a resistant (A/J) mouse strain. The data obtained indicate that one or two recessive genes may be involved in resistance of acute and chronic diseases but suggest that the genes involved in both diseases are different. In this cross, no correlation was observed between H-2 and acute or chronic disease. In mice of congenic lines, however, A/Sn (H-2a), A.SW (H-2s), A.BY (H-2b), and A.CA (H-2f), it appeared that the presence of the H-2f allele conferred to heterozygote as well as to homozygote animals the capacity to resist the development of chronic disease. It seems, therefore, that MHV3 sensitivity in mice is under the influence of at least two major genes: one for the acute disease and the other, H-2 linked, for the chronic disease.", "contents": "Genetic study of mouse sensitivity to MHV3 infection: influence of the H-2 complex. Genetic study of acute and chronic mouse hepatitis virus type 3 disease was carried out in segregating generations of a cross involving a susceptible (C57BL/6) and a resistant (A/J) mouse strain. The data obtained indicate that one or two recessive genes may be involved in resistance of acute and chronic diseases but suggest that the genes involved in both diseases are different. In this cross, no correlation was observed between H-2 and acute or chronic disease. In mice of congenic lines, however, A/Sn (H-2a), A.SW (H-2s), A.BY (H-2b), and A.CA (H-2f), it appeared that the presence of the H-2f allele conferred to heterozygote as well as to homozygote animals the capacity to resist the development of chronic disease. It seems, therefore, that MHV3 sensitivity in mice is under the influence of at least two major genes: one for the acute disease and the other, H-2 linked, for the chronic disease.", "PMID": 448093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8435", "title": "Immunoregulatory properties of human esophageal tumor extract.", "content": "Noncytotoxic aqueous extracts of esophageal tumors (TEx) inhibit the spontaneous uptake of 3H-thymidine by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM). TEx also inhibits mitogen- and antigen-induced PBM blastogenesis, mitogenesis, 3H-thymidine uptake, and 3H-leucine incorporation. Inhibition is reversible and is mediated by a heat-labile protein with a m.w. of approximately 70 to 80,000 daltons. Inhibitory activity is not due to trivial binding of mitogen or neucleotide by the inhibitor, nor is it entirely tumor specific since similar but quantitatively less activity is extractable from adjacent normal esophageal mucosa. Assorted cell surface membrane phenomena such as contact inhibition of in vitro endothelial cell proliferation, lymphocyte E rosette formation, and cap formation are unaffected by TEx. In contrast, immunoglobulin synthesis by pokeweed mitogen-stimulated PBM is enhanced by TEx. The potential importance of the local production of immunoregulatory agents like TEx in the immunologic control of tumor cell growth is discussed.", "contents": "Immunoregulatory properties of human esophageal tumor extract. Noncytotoxic aqueous extracts of esophageal tumors (TEx) inhibit the spontaneous uptake of 3H-thymidine by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM). TEx also inhibits mitogen- and antigen-induced PBM blastogenesis, mitogenesis, 3H-thymidine uptake, and 3H-leucine incorporation. Inhibition is reversible and is mediated by a heat-labile protein with a m.w. of approximately 70 to 80,000 daltons. Inhibitory activity is not due to trivial binding of mitogen or neucleotide by the inhibitor, nor is it entirely tumor specific since similar but quantitatively less activity is extractable from adjacent normal esophageal mucosa. Assorted cell surface membrane phenomena such as contact inhibition of in vitro endothelial cell proliferation, lymphocyte E rosette formation, and cap formation are unaffected by TEx. In contrast, immunoglobulin synthesis by pokeweed mitogen-stimulated PBM is enhanced by TEx. The potential importance of the local production of immunoregulatory agents like TEx in the immunologic control of tumor cell growth is discussed.", "PMID": 448092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8436", "title": "Association between H-2 and vaccinia virus-induced antigens on the surface of infected cells.", "content": "The relationship between H-2 molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens on the surface of H-2d infected cells was investigated by the differential redistribution method and by the blocking capacity of monospecific anti-H-2 sera on an anti-vaccinia cell-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC). Capping of either H-2K or H-2D molecules upon addition of monospecific and anti-H-2 sera was followed by the complete redistribution of viral antigens, suggesting the formation, on the cel membrane, of complexes of H-2K, H-2D molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens. However, not all H-2 molecules were involved in this association since i) free H-2K and H-2D molecules still moved independently on the cell surface, and ii) capping of vaccinia virus-induced antigens failed to induce the redistribution of all the H-2K and H-2D molecules. In addition, either monospecific anti-H-2K or anti-H-2D antiserum was found to exert potent blocking activity on anti-vaccinia CMC, indicating also a close topographical relationship between H-2K, H-2D molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens.", "contents": "Association between H-2 and vaccinia virus-induced antigens on the surface of infected cells. The relationship between H-2 molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens on the surface of H-2d infected cells was investigated by the differential redistribution method and by the blocking capacity of monospecific anti-H-2 sera on an anti-vaccinia cell-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC). Capping of either H-2K or H-2D molecules upon addition of monospecific and anti-H-2 sera was followed by the complete redistribution of viral antigens, suggesting the formation, on the cel membrane, of complexes of H-2K, H-2D molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens. However, not all H-2 molecules were involved in this association since i) free H-2K and H-2D molecules still moved independently on the cell surface, and ii) capping of vaccinia virus-induced antigens failed to induce the redistribution of all the H-2K and H-2D molecules. In addition, either monospecific anti-H-2K or anti-H-2D antiserum was found to exert potent blocking activity on anti-vaccinia CMC, indicating also a close topographical relationship between H-2K, H-2D molecules and vaccinia virus-induced antigens.", "PMID": 448095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8437", "title": "Hybrid resistance to BALB/c plasmacytomas. I. Resistance to MPC-11 controlled by a locus not linked to H-2.", "content": "Genetic control of hybrid resistance to the BALB/c plasmacytoma MPC-11 was investigated. The results indicate that a single dominant autosomal gene or gene complex, which segregates independently of H-2 and the coat color c and b-loci, controls resistance to this tumor. This gene has the same strain distribution pattern in the CXB Bailey recombinant inbred strains as three unlinked genes, H-2, Ly-4, and Ea-4. It is possible, therefore, that it could be linked to either of the latter two loci. Strains that carry a positive allele for resistance are C57BL/10 and all of its congenic resistant partners tested, C57BL/6, C57L, C57BL/Ks, AKR, and DBA/1. BALB/c and its congenic resistant partners are presumed to carry a negative allele of the gene for resistance to MPC-11. Strains such as SJL, DBA/2, and A and its congenic resistant partners, which form susceptible hybrids with BALB/c, could carry either the negative allele of the gene for resistance, like BALB/c, or could carry both a positive allele of the gene and some other gene conferring susceptibility on the hybrids. Heterozygosity within the H-2 complex increases resistance only in the presence of this non-H-2 linked gene for resistance, and the effect maps to the left of the H-2D region.", "contents": "Hybrid resistance to BALB/c plasmacytomas. I. Resistance to MPC-11 controlled by a locus not linked to H-2. Genetic control of hybrid resistance to the BALB/c plasmacytoma MPC-11 was investigated. The results indicate that a single dominant autosomal gene or gene complex, which segregates independently of H-2 and the coat color c and b-loci, controls resistance to this tumor. This gene has the same strain distribution pattern in the CXB Bailey recombinant inbred strains as three unlinked genes, H-2, Ly-4, and Ea-4. It is possible, therefore, that it could be linked to either of the latter two loci. Strains that carry a positive allele for resistance are C57BL/10 and all of its congenic resistant partners tested, C57BL/6, C57L, C57BL/Ks, AKR, and DBA/1. BALB/c and its congenic resistant partners are presumed to carry a negative allele of the gene for resistance to MPC-11. Strains such as SJL, DBA/2, and A and its congenic resistant partners, which form susceptible hybrids with BALB/c, could carry either the negative allele of the gene for resistance, like BALB/c, or could carry both a positive allele of the gene and some other gene conferring susceptibility on the hybrids. Heterozygosity within the H-2 complex increases resistance only in the presence of this non-H-2 linked gene for resistance, and the effect maps to the left of the H-2D region.", "PMID": 448097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8438", "title": "Effects of arachidonic acid and other unsaturated fatty acids on mitogenesis in human lymphocytes.", "content": "The effect of fatty acids and other lipids on mitogenic responses in cultured human peripheral blood lymphocytes was studied. Several-fold enhancement of tritiated thymidine incorporation was observed at 0.1 to 5.0 micrograms/ml concentrations of arachidonic acid. Other unsaturated fatty acids produced less marked changes. Increased responsiveness was demonstrable in a variety of media including RPMI 1640 supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum. Changes were also observed in uridine incorporation, total cell number, and blast transformation, indicating that the effect was not on thymidine transport or pool size per se. Arachidonic acid failed to affect PHA binding, indicating that the lectin-cell interaction was not altered. Higher concentrations of fatty acids were inhibitory.", "contents": "Effects of arachidonic acid and other unsaturated fatty acids on mitogenesis in human lymphocytes. The effect of fatty acids and other lipids on mitogenic responses in cultured human peripheral blood lymphocytes was studied. Several-fold enhancement of tritiated thymidine incorporation was observed at 0.1 to 5.0 micrograms/ml concentrations of arachidonic acid. Other unsaturated fatty acids produced less marked changes. Increased responsiveness was demonstrable in a variety of media including RPMI 1640 supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum. Changes were also observed in uridine incorporation, total cell number, and blast transformation, indicating that the effect was not on thymidine transport or pool size per se. Arachidonic acid failed to affect PHA binding, indicating that the lectin-cell interaction was not altered. Higher concentrations of fatty acids were inhibitory.", "PMID": 448098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8439", "title": "Formation of thromboxane B2 and hydroxyarachidonic acids in purified human lymphocytes in the presence and absence of PHA.", "content": "The metabolism of exogenous and endogenous [14C] arachidonc acid was studied in purified human peripheral blood lymphocytes carefully freed of contaminating platelets. Formation of products co-migrating in a number of different solvent systems with 5-hydroxyarachidonic acid (5-HETE), thromboxane B2 (TB2), prostaglandins and probably 12-hydroxyarachidonic acid (12-HETE) was demonstrated. In cells prelabeled with [14C] arachidonic acid, phytohemagglutinin (PHA) produced substantial (3.5- to 12-fold) increases in 5-HETE, 12-HETE, and TB2 radiolabeling. The metabolism of exogenous [14C] arachidonic acid was much less affected by PHA. Since PHA releases cell-bound arachidonic acid, it appears that the response involving endogenous label is due to increased availability of free arachidonic acid rather than induction of arachidonic acid-metabolizing enzymes. Various inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism exerted similar effects in lymphocytes to those described previously in other tissues providing a possible basis for interpreting their inhibitory effects on mitogenesis, described in the preceding paper.", "contents": "Formation of thromboxane B2 and hydroxyarachidonic acids in purified human lymphocytes in the presence and absence of PHA. The metabolism of exogenous and endogenous [14C] arachidonc acid was studied in purified human peripheral blood lymphocytes carefully freed of contaminating platelets. Formation of products co-migrating in a number of different solvent systems with 5-hydroxyarachidonic acid (5-HETE), thromboxane B2 (TB2), prostaglandins and probably 12-hydroxyarachidonic acid (12-HETE) was demonstrated. In cells prelabeled with [14C] arachidonic acid, phytohemagglutinin (PHA) produced substantial (3.5- to 12-fold) increases in 5-HETE, 12-HETE, and TB2 radiolabeling. The metabolism of exogenous [14C] arachidonic acid was much less affected by PHA. Since PHA releases cell-bound arachidonic acid, it appears that the response involving endogenous label is due to increased availability of free arachidonic acid rather than induction of arachidonic acid-metabolizing enzymes. Various inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism exerted similar effects in lymphocytes to those described previously in other tissues providing a possible basis for interpreting their inhibitory effects on mitogenesis, described in the preceding paper.", "PMID": 448099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8440", "title": "Anti-DNA activity of IgG F(ab')2 from normal human serum.", "content": "The components of normal human serum (NHS) which bound DNA in a standard assay for anti-DNA antibody were characterized. IgG was the major detectable protein isolated from NHS by affinity chromatography on DNA-cellulose. A second adsorption of the whole serum IgG with DNA-cellulose did not remove additional gamma-globulin indicating that only a very small fraction of the IgG was capable of binding DNA. This binding activity was largely restricted to denatured DNA. IgG (Fab')2 bound DNA as well as the intact molecules demonstrating the antibody-like nature of the IgG binding. These results suggest that IgG antibody to denatured DNA is a normal component of human serum.", "contents": "Anti-DNA activity of IgG F(ab')2 from normal human serum. The components of normal human serum (NHS) which bound DNA in a standard assay for anti-DNA antibody were characterized. IgG was the major detectable protein isolated from NHS by affinity chromatography on DNA-cellulose. A second adsorption of the whole serum IgG with DNA-cellulose did not remove additional gamma-globulin indicating that only a very small fraction of the IgG was capable of binding DNA. This binding activity was largely restricted to denatured DNA. IgG (Fab')2 bound DNA as well as the intact molecules demonstrating the antibody-like nature of the IgG binding. These results suggest that IgG antibody to denatured DNA is a normal component of human serum.", "PMID": 448101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8441", "title": "Macrophage-lymphocyte clusters in the immune response to soluble protein antigen in vitro. VII. Genetically restricted and nonrestricted physical interactions.", "content": "We have assessed the genetic restrictions on physical interactions between macrophages and central lymphocytes and between central and peripheral lymphocytes in antigen-specific macrophage-lymphocyte clusters with respect to I-region differences of inbred strains 2 and 13 guinea pigs. When using lymphocytes from guinea pigs immunized with DNP-OVA or DNP-GL in CFA, the antigen-specific interaction between central lymphocyte and macrophage requires that both cells be derived from animals syngeneic at the I-region of the major histocompatibility complex. In studies using antigens, the responses to which is under the control of MHC-linked Ir genes, macrophages from the responder, but not from the nonresponder parental strain support cluster formation with responder x nonresponder F1(2 X 13) T cells. In contrast, the physical interactions between central and peripheral T lymphocytes are not restricted by the I-region of the MHC and the peripheral lymphocyte need not be from an animal immune to the antigen used to drive macrophage central lymphocyte interactions.", "contents": "Macrophage-lymphocyte clusters in the immune response to soluble protein antigen in vitro. VII. Genetically restricted and nonrestricted physical interactions. We have assessed the genetic restrictions on physical interactions between macrophages and central lymphocytes and between central and peripheral lymphocytes in antigen-specific macrophage-lymphocyte clusters with respect to I-region differences of inbred strains 2 and 13 guinea pigs. When using lymphocytes from guinea pigs immunized with DNP-OVA or DNP-GL in CFA, the antigen-specific interaction between central lymphocyte and macrophage requires that both cells be derived from animals syngeneic at the I-region of the major histocompatibility complex. In studies using antigens, the responses to which is under the control of MHC-linked Ir genes, macrophages from the responder, but not from the nonresponder parental strain support cluster formation with responder x nonresponder F1(2 X 13) T cells. In contrast, the physical interactions between central and peripheral T lymphocytes are not restricted by the I-region of the MHC and the peripheral lymphocyte need not be from an animal immune to the antigen used to drive macrophage central lymphocyte interactions.", "PMID": 448102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8442", "title": "Selective adherence of lymphocytes to myelinated areas of rat brain.", "content": "An in vitro system developed for studying lymphocyte binding to high endothelial venules (HEV) of lymph nodes was used to determine if there are similar binding sites in other organs of the rat. Thoracic duct lymphocytes (TDL) adhered selectively and uniformly to white matter when overlaid onto glutaraldehyde-fixed tissue sections of cerebellum and cerebrum. The pattern of TDL adherence to cerebellar sections showed that binding to nonmyelinated areas was negligible. Comparison of TDL-white matter to TDL-HEV binding demonstrated that the density of adherence to each site was quantitatively similar. In contrast, lymphocytes exhibited little tendency to bind to tissue sections of liver, spleen, heart, thymus, and salivary glands. TDL adherence to cerebellar white matter occurred rapidly, was cell dose dependent and optimal at 7 degrees C. White matter binding was also a property of spleen lymphocytes but the thymus was deficient in cells with this capability. The affinity of TDL and spleen lymphocytes for myelinated areas of the brain suggests the presence of myelin binding receptors on these cells.", "contents": "Selective adherence of lymphocytes to myelinated areas of rat brain. An in vitro system developed for studying lymphocyte binding to high endothelial venules (HEV) of lymph nodes was used to determine if there are similar binding sites in other organs of the rat. Thoracic duct lymphocytes (TDL) adhered selectively and uniformly to white matter when overlaid onto glutaraldehyde-fixed tissue sections of cerebellum and cerebrum. The pattern of TDL adherence to cerebellar sections showed that binding to nonmyelinated areas was negligible. Comparison of TDL-white matter to TDL-HEV binding demonstrated that the density of adherence to each site was quantitatively similar. In contrast, lymphocytes exhibited little tendency to bind to tissue sections of liver, spleen, heart, thymus, and salivary glands. TDL adherence to cerebellar white matter occurred rapidly, was cell dose dependent and optimal at 7 degrees C. White matter binding was also a property of spleen lymphocytes but the thymus was deficient in cells with this capability. The affinity of TDL and spleen lymphocytes for myelinated areas of the brain suggests the presence of myelin binding receptors on these cells.", "PMID": 448103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8443", "title": "Enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine by macrophages stimulated by macrophage-activating factor.", "content": "The enhanced uptake and incorporation of 3H-glucosamine by guinea pig peritoneal exudate macrophages stimulated by macrophage-activating factor (MAF) were studied. MAF was produced by concanavalin A- (Con A) stimulated lymphocytes. Two systems were developed to assay this phenomenon, one using microtiter plates, the other using suspension cultures. Enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine by macrophages was found after 48-hr incubation in microtiter plates and after 24 hr in suspension cultures. Increased uptake of 14C-glucose and 3H-galactose was also observed under these conditions. The enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine was markedly reduced or abolished by the addition of glucose to the cell cultures or by replacement of the medium with fresh medium before pulsing with labeled sugar. These observations indicate that the mechanism of enhanced uptake reflects in part increased glucose utilization by the stimulated macrophages.", "contents": "Enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine by macrophages stimulated by macrophage-activating factor. The enhanced uptake and incorporation of 3H-glucosamine by guinea pig peritoneal exudate macrophages stimulated by macrophage-activating factor (MAF) were studied. MAF was produced by concanavalin A- (Con A) stimulated lymphocytes. Two systems were developed to assay this phenomenon, one using microtiter plates, the other using suspension cultures. Enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine by macrophages was found after 48-hr incubation in microtiter plates and after 24 hr in suspension cultures. Increased uptake of 14C-glucose and 3H-galactose was also observed under these conditions. The enhanced uptake of 3H-glucosamine was markedly reduced or abolished by the addition of glucose to the cell cultures or by replacement of the medium with fresh medium before pulsing with labeled sugar. These observations indicate that the mechanism of enhanced uptake reflects in part increased glucose utilization by the stimulated macrophages.", "PMID": 448106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8444", "title": "Thermal injury-associated immunosuppression: occurrence and in vitro blocking effect of post recovery serum.", "content": "Sera from 38 of 72 burn patients have been found to be significantly suppressive to the PHA-induced blastogenesis of normal human lymphocytes in culture. In many of these patients, we have observed that suppression levels decline with recovery. In a study of eight of these patients, we have found that the addition of post recovery serum to cultures of normal lymphoyctes blocked the suppressive effect of autologous serum obtained earlier. Blocking appears to be achieved through the formation of antibodies since: a) IgG levels are greatly elevated in serum samples having blocking activity, b) the time of appearance of blocking substances in the serum is compatible with the generation of antibody, and c) blocking activity is contained in the protein-A isolated IgG fraction of such post recovery serum.", "contents": "Thermal injury-associated immunosuppression: occurrence and in vitro blocking effect of post recovery serum. Sera from 38 of 72 burn patients have been found to be significantly suppressive to the PHA-induced blastogenesis of normal human lymphocytes in culture. In many of these patients, we have observed that suppression levels decline with recovery. In a study of eight of these patients, we have found that the addition of post recovery serum to cultures of normal lymphoyctes blocked the suppressive effect of autologous serum obtained earlier. Blocking appears to be achieved through the formation of antibodies since: a) IgG levels are greatly elevated in serum samples having blocking activity, b) the time of appearance of blocking substances in the serum is compatible with the generation of antibody, and c) blocking activity is contained in the protein-A isolated IgG fraction of such post recovery serum.", "PMID": 448107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8445", "title": "Immunologic vasculitis in beige mice with deficiency of leukocytic neutral protease.", "content": "Immune complex vasculitis has been induced in normal mice and in mice with features of the Chediak-Higashi syndrome (\"beige\" mice). The accumulation of neutrophils in peritoneal exudates after the injection of C5a is not quantitatively depressed in beige as compared with normal mice. Immune complex-induced vasculitis in these two strains of mice is not quantitatively different, as assessed by vascular damage (vasopermeability changes and histologic criteria). Measurements of leukocyte enzymes confirm the findings of Vassalli et al. that leukocytes of beige mice lack neutral protease activity. The data suggest that the neutral protease of murine leukocytes does not account for the vascular damage of immune complex vasculitis.", "contents": "Immunologic vasculitis in beige mice with deficiency of leukocytic neutral protease. Immune complex vasculitis has been induced in normal mice and in mice with features of the Chediak-Higashi syndrome (\"beige\" mice). The accumulation of neutrophils in peritoneal exudates after the injection of C5a is not quantitatively depressed in beige as compared with normal mice. Immune complex-induced vasculitis in these two strains of mice is not quantitatively different, as assessed by vascular damage (vasopermeability changes and histologic criteria). Measurements of leukocyte enzymes confirm the findings of Vassalli et al. that leukocytes of beige mice lack neutral protease activity. The data suggest that the neutral protease of murine leukocytes does not account for the vascular damage of immune complex vasculitis.", "PMID": 448109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8446", "title": "Evidence for a common mucosal immunologic system. I. Migration of B immunoblasts into intestinal, respiratory, and genital tissues.", "content": "The origins of immunoglobulin-containing cells in intestinal, respiratory, mammary, and genital tissues were studied in CBA/J female mice by using an adoptive lymphocyte transfer method. Within 24 hr after transfer, [3H]thymidine-labeled donor mesenteric lymph node (MLN) cells were observed in recipient gut, cervix and vagina, uterus, mammary glands, and MLN, where approximately 60% contained IgA and 25% IgG. In peripheral lymph nodes (PLN), 44% of the labeled cells after MLN transfer contained IgG, whereas only 8% were of the IgA isotype. The preference of the MLN to populate mucosal sites was clear from the results. Labeled PLN cells were transferred and the majority of these returned to their sites of origin and contained IgG. Of the small number of labeled PLN cells found in mucosal tissues, approximately equal percentages (30%) of IgA- anti IgG-containing cells were seen. Dividing cells prepared from mediastinal (bronchial) lymph nodes (BLN) showed a propensity to localize in the lungs rather than the intestine. However, the predominant immunoglobulin content of these donor cells in gut, lungs, and MLN was IgA. In recipient PLN, most labeled BLN cells contained IgG. These data support the concept of a common mucosal immunologic system.", "contents": "Evidence for a common mucosal immunologic system. I. Migration of B immunoblasts into intestinal, respiratory, and genital tissues. The origins of immunoglobulin-containing cells in intestinal, respiratory, mammary, and genital tissues were studied in CBA/J female mice by using an adoptive lymphocyte transfer method. Within 24 hr after transfer, [3H]thymidine-labeled donor mesenteric lymph node (MLN) cells were observed in recipient gut, cervix and vagina, uterus, mammary glands, and MLN, where approximately 60% contained IgA and 25% IgG. In peripheral lymph nodes (PLN), 44% of the labeled cells after MLN transfer contained IgG, whereas only 8% were of the IgA isotype. The preference of the MLN to populate mucosal sites was clear from the results. Labeled PLN cells were transferred and the majority of these returned to their sites of origin and contained IgG. Of the small number of labeled PLN cells found in mucosal tissues, approximately equal percentages (30%) of IgA- anti IgG-containing cells were seen. Dividing cells prepared from mediastinal (bronchial) lymph nodes (BLN) showed a propensity to localize in the lungs rather than the intestine. However, the predominant immunoglobulin content of these donor cells in gut, lungs, and MLN was IgA. In recipient PLN, most labeled BLN cells contained IgG. These data support the concept of a common mucosal immunologic system.", "PMID": 448111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8447", "title": "Shared chemical properties of different murine thymus-leukemia antigens.", "content": "Immunochemical studies of murine thymus-leukemia antigens (TLA) have confirmed that the subunit structure consists of a 45,000-dalton heavy chain and a beta 2 microglobulin (beta 2m) light chain. Similar structural features are exhibited by the TLA from thymocytes of Tlaa, Tlac, Tlad, and a leukemia cell derived from C57BL/6, a Tlab strain. In addition to the similar subunit structure from the four haplotypes, each TLA shows a similar pattern of trypsin proteolysis. This procedure yields a major heavy chain cleavage product of approximately 37,000 daltons that remains associated with beta 2m and retains most or all of the antigenic determinants of the intact TLA. Evidence is presented that TLA do not exhibit Fc receptor properties, nor do they adsorb to murine leukemia virus antigens under the conditions of isolation for analysis on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Taken together these findings strongly support the hypothesis that TLA comprise a family of chemically similar antigens belonging to a structurally and genetically related group that includes H-2D, H-2K, and Qa-2,3.", "contents": "Shared chemical properties of different murine thymus-leukemia antigens. Immunochemical studies of murine thymus-leukemia antigens (TLA) have confirmed that the subunit structure consists of a 45,000-dalton heavy chain and a beta 2 microglobulin (beta 2m) light chain. Similar structural features are exhibited by the TLA from thymocytes of Tlaa, Tlac, Tlad, and a leukemia cell derived from C57BL/6, a Tlab strain. In addition to the similar subunit structure from the four haplotypes, each TLA shows a similar pattern of trypsin proteolysis. This procedure yields a major heavy chain cleavage product of approximately 37,000 daltons that remains associated with beta 2m and retains most or all of the antigenic determinants of the intact TLA. Evidence is presented that TLA do not exhibit Fc receptor properties, nor do they adsorb to murine leukemia virus antigens under the conditions of isolation for analysis on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Taken together these findings strongly support the hypothesis that TLA comprise a family of chemically similar antigens belonging to a structurally and genetically related group that includes H-2D, H-2K, and Qa-2,3.", "PMID": 448110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8448", "title": "Humoral and formed elements of blood modulate the response of peripheral blood monocytes. I. Plasma and serum inhibit and platelets enhance monocyte adherence.", "content": "Human and rabbit peripheral blood monocytes normally adhere to plastic tissue culture plates in vitro when they are suspended in Hanks' media. Increasing amounts of autologous serum or heat-inactivated plasma in the cell suspensions prevented the adherence of both monocytes and lymphocytes. The inhibitory effect of plasma was separated into three areas of activity by chromatography on Sephacryl S-200. The profile of inhibitory activity did not coincide with the protein elution profile, suggesting that inhibition was not a nonspecific protein effect. A layer of adherent platelets overcame the inhibitory effect of plasma on monocyte adherence. Platelets selectively increased monocyte as opposed to lymphocyte adherence and this was specific for platelets in that neither neutrophils nor fibroblasts could substitute for platelets. Both plasma and platelets acted directly on monocytes.", "contents": "Humoral and formed elements of blood modulate the response of peripheral blood monocytes. I. Plasma and serum inhibit and platelets enhance monocyte adherence. Human and rabbit peripheral blood monocytes normally adhere to plastic tissue culture plates in vitro when they are suspended in Hanks' media. Increasing amounts of autologous serum or heat-inactivated plasma in the cell suspensions prevented the adherence of both monocytes and lymphocytes. The inhibitory effect of plasma was separated into three areas of activity by chromatography on Sephacryl S-200. The profile of inhibitory activity did not coincide with the protein elution profile, suggesting that inhibition was not a nonspecific protein effect. A layer of adherent platelets overcame the inhibitory effect of plasma on monocyte adherence. Platelets selectively increased monocyte as opposed to lymphocyte adherence and this was specific for platelets in that neither neutrophils nor fibroblasts could substitute for platelets. Both plasma and platelets acted directly on monocytes.", "PMID": 448114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8449", "title": "Opposing effects of cryostat sections of preneoplastic and neoplastic mouse mammary lesions on in vitro migration of peritoneal exudate cells.", "content": "Cryostat sections of normal mouse tissues and of preneoplastic HAN and neoplastic mammary tumors were used as \"antigens\" in MMI tests. Nonspecific inhibition of normal and sensitized PEC migration was induced by HAN and some normal tissues, including normal mammary gland. This inhibition did not require the presence of lymphocytes, was not species specific, and could be blocked by sera from HAN-bearing mice. Cryostat sections of mammary tumors did not inhibit, indeed occasionally enhanced PEC migration. Further, the presence of tumor cryostats and eluates interfered with inhibition induced by HAN cryostats and by PPD with PEC from donors sensitized to that antigen. Histologic examination of HAN and of mammary tumor tissue revealed inflammatory cells to be distributed diffusely in the former and localized peripherally around the latter type of lesion.", "contents": "Opposing effects of cryostat sections of preneoplastic and neoplastic mouse mammary lesions on in vitro migration of peritoneal exudate cells. Cryostat sections of normal mouse tissues and of preneoplastic HAN and neoplastic mammary tumors were used as \"antigens\" in MMI tests. Nonspecific inhibition of normal and sensitized PEC migration was induced by HAN and some normal tissues, including normal mammary gland. This inhibition did not require the presence of lymphocytes, was not species specific, and could be blocked by sera from HAN-bearing mice. Cryostat sections of mammary tumors did not inhibit, indeed occasionally enhanced PEC migration. Further, the presence of tumor cryostats and eluates interfered with inhibition induced by HAN cryostats and by PPD with PEC from donors sensitized to that antigen. Histologic examination of HAN and of mammary tumor tissue revealed inflammatory cells to be distributed diffusely in the former and localized peripherally around the latter type of lesion.", "PMID": 448117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8450", "title": "IgE mediated triggering of rat basophil leukemia cells: lack of evidence for serine esterase activation.", "content": "Inhibition of mediator release from mast cells and basophils by diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) and other organophosphorus compounds known to inhibit serine esterases has in the past led to the hypothesis that immunologic triggering of these cells involves an activatable serine esterase. In this study we have shown that two nonphosphorylating or poorly phosphorylating structural analogs of two potent phosphorylators inhibit release of incorporated serotonin from cultured rat basophil leukemia cells. We conclude that, by itself, inhibition of immunologic mast cell triggering by phosphorylating organophosphorus compounds can no longer be considered evidence for involvement of an activatable serine esterase in mast cell triggering.", "contents": "IgE mediated triggering of rat basophil leukemia cells: lack of evidence for serine esterase activation. Inhibition of mediator release from mast cells and basophils by diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) and other organophosphorus compounds known to inhibit serine esterases has in the past led to the hypothesis that immunologic triggering of these cells involves an activatable serine esterase. In this study we have shown that two nonphosphorylating or poorly phosphorylating structural analogs of two potent phosphorylators inhibit release of incorporated serotonin from cultured rat basophil leukemia cells. We conclude that, by itself, inhibition of immunologic mast cell triggering by phosphorylating organophosphorus compounds can no longer be considered evidence for involvement of an activatable serine esterase in mast cell triggering.", "PMID": 448121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8451", "title": "In situ lymphoid cells of mouse mammary tumors. IV. Comparison of functional activity of lymphoid cells separated from mammary tumors to that of spleen and lymph node cells of tumor-sensitized mice.", "content": "Lymphoid cells isolated form several types of mouse mammary tumors are capable of stimulating tumor cell growth or survival in MCT assays. Lymph node and spleen cells of mice bearing such a tumor are specifically cytotoxic to the tumor cells. Surgical removal of the tumor is followed in 4 to 7 days by the appearance of stimulatory capacity in spleens and lymph nodes. By day 10, cytotoxic cells specific for the sensitizing tumor are again detected. These reach a peak on day 13. By day 17 no reactivity is detectable. The functional distribution of tumor-reactive lymphoid cells is different between tumor masses and peripheral lymphoid organs.", "contents": "In situ lymphoid cells of mouse mammary tumors. IV. Comparison of functional activity of lymphoid cells separated from mammary tumors to that of spleen and lymph node cells of tumor-sensitized mice. Lymphoid cells isolated form several types of mouse mammary tumors are capable of stimulating tumor cell growth or survival in MCT assays. Lymph node and spleen cells of mice bearing such a tumor are specifically cytotoxic to the tumor cells. Surgical removal of the tumor is followed in 4 to 7 days by the appearance of stimulatory capacity in spleens and lymph nodes. By day 10, cytotoxic cells specific for the sensitizing tumor are again detected. These reach a peak on day 13. By day 17 no reactivity is detectable. The functional distribution of tumor-reactive lymphoid cells is different between tumor masses and peripheral lymphoid organs.", "PMID": 448122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8452", "title": "Regulation of IgE antibody production by serum molecules. IV. Complete Freund's adjuvant induces both enhancing and suppressive activities detectable in the serum of low and high responder mice.", "content": "Two biologically active serum molecules manifesting precisely opposite biologic effects, both of which are selective for IgE antibody synthesis, can be detected in the serum and ascites fluids of CFA-immune mice. One activity, described previously, is suppressive and hence termed suppressive factor of allergy (SFA); the other, reported for the first time herein, is enhancing and has been termed enhancing factor of allergy (EFA). The ability to detect one vs the other activity requires certain special manipulations such as different doses of low dose x-irradiation. Conclusive evidence for the existence of two distinct factors mediating these two opposing biologic effects was obtained in studies demonstrating that affinity chromatography on concanavalin A-Sepharose segregated the two molecular entities. Thus, SFA binds poorly or not at all to Con A-Sepharose, whereas EFA binds to Con A and can be recovered in the eluate eluted with the competitive sugar alpha-methyl-D-glucopyranoside.", "contents": "Regulation of IgE antibody production by serum molecules. IV. Complete Freund's adjuvant induces both enhancing and suppressive activities detectable in the serum of low and high responder mice. Two biologically active serum molecules manifesting precisely opposite biologic effects, both of which are selective for IgE antibody synthesis, can be detected in the serum and ascites fluids of CFA-immune mice. One activity, described previously, is suppressive and hence termed suppressive factor of allergy (SFA); the other, reported for the first time herein, is enhancing and has been termed enhancing factor of allergy (EFA). The ability to detect one vs the other activity requires certain special manipulations such as different doses of low dose x-irradiation. Conclusive evidence for the existence of two distinct factors mediating these two opposing biologic effects was obtained in studies demonstrating that affinity chromatography on concanavalin A-Sepharose segregated the two molecular entities. Thus, SFA binds poorly or not at all to Con A-Sepharose, whereas EFA binds to Con A and can be recovered in the eluate eluted with the competitive sugar alpha-methyl-D-glucopyranoside.", "PMID": 448123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8453", "title": "Structural studies on the murine Ia alloantigens. IV. NH2-terminal sequence analysis of allelic products of the I-A and I-E/C subregions.", "content": "Murine Ia alloantigens encoded by the I-A and I-E/C subregions were isolated from radiolabeled splenic lysates and examined by NH2-terminal sequence analysis. Haplotype-associated sequence variation was detected in the beta, but not alpha, subunits of both the A and E/C alloantigens. The A beta-polypeptides from k and b haplotypes show four differences in the 12 positions compared, whereas the E/C beta-polypeptides from k and r haplotypes show two differences in the 13 positions compared. No sequence variation was detected between the Ak and Ab alpha-chains (six positions compared) or between the E/Ck and E/Cr alpha-chains (11 positions compared). Homology relationships between these murine Ia alloantigens and the human Ia (DR) alloantigens are also presented.", "contents": "Structural studies on the murine Ia alloantigens. IV. NH2-terminal sequence analysis of allelic products of the I-A and I-E/C subregions. Murine Ia alloantigens encoded by the I-A and I-E/C subregions were isolated from radiolabeled splenic lysates and examined by NH2-terminal sequence analysis. Haplotype-associated sequence variation was detected in the beta, but not alpha, subunits of both the A and E/C alloantigens. The A beta-polypeptides from k and b haplotypes show four differences in the 12 positions compared, whereas the E/C beta-polypeptides from k and r haplotypes show two differences in the 13 positions compared. No sequence variation was detected between the Ak and Ab alpha-chains (six positions compared) or between the E/Ck and E/Cr alpha-chains (11 positions compared). Homology relationships between these murine Ia alloantigens and the human Ia (DR) alloantigens are also presented.", "PMID": 448125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8454", "title": "Tumor-basophil interactions in vitro--a scanning and transmission electron microscopic study.", "content": "Purified guinea pig basophils, or basophils either specifically degranulated with antigen or nonspecifically degranulated with lectin, were cultured with guinea pig line 1 hepatoma cells for 1 to 24 hr and studied ultrastructurally. As early as 1 hr of culture, degranulated or nongranulated basophils and tumor cells formed close contacts by mutually intertwined elongated cell processes and also in cultures containing degranulated basophils, extruded membrane-free basophil cytoplasmic granules became firmly attached to tumor cells. At later intervals, some tumor cells cultured with basophils exhibited cytostatic and cytopathic changes, including dense mitochondria, centralization of organelles, dilated perinuclear and rough endoplasmic cisternae, cell swelling and cytoplasmic lucency, disrupted cytoplasmic organelle and plasma membranes, nuclear pyknosis and fragmentation. Some tumor cell specialized surface attachments were either disrupted or damaged at points of basophil or basophil granule adhesion. Tumor damage was most extensive in cultures containing degranulated basophils, although only a minority of tumor cells (less than 10%) was affected. Tumor injury was seen much less frequently in the presence of nondegranulated basophils, and was absent in control cultures of tumor alone. The occasional viable tumor cells that phagocytosed basophil granules were apparently unharmed, suggesting that internalization of basophil granules by tumor cells is not cytotoxic.", "contents": "Tumor-basophil interactions in vitro--a scanning and transmission electron microscopic study. Purified guinea pig basophils, or basophils either specifically degranulated with antigen or nonspecifically degranulated with lectin, were cultured with guinea pig line 1 hepatoma cells for 1 to 24 hr and studied ultrastructurally. As early as 1 hr of culture, degranulated or nongranulated basophils and tumor cells formed close contacts by mutually intertwined elongated cell processes and also in cultures containing degranulated basophils, extruded membrane-free basophil cytoplasmic granules became firmly attached to tumor cells. At later intervals, some tumor cells cultured with basophils exhibited cytostatic and cytopathic changes, including dense mitochondria, centralization of organelles, dilated perinuclear and rough endoplasmic cisternae, cell swelling and cytoplasmic lucency, disrupted cytoplasmic organelle and plasma membranes, nuclear pyknosis and fragmentation. Some tumor cell specialized surface attachments were either disrupted or damaged at points of basophil or basophil granule adhesion. Tumor damage was most extensive in cultures containing degranulated basophils, although only a minority of tumor cells (less than 10%) was affected. Tumor injury was seen much less frequently in the presence of nondegranulated basophils, and was absent in control cultures of tumor alone. The occasional viable tumor cells that phagocytosed basophil granules were apparently unharmed, suggesting that internalization of basophil granules by tumor cells is not cytotoxic.", "PMID": 448131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8455", "title": "An anticomplementary agent, K-76 monocarboxylic acid: its site and mechanism of inhibition of the complement activation cascade.", "content": "A monocarboxylic acid derivative (K-76 COOH) of K-76, purified from the culture filtrate of Stachybotrys complement I nov. sp. K-76, inhibits complement (C) activity. Its inhibitory action is mainly on C5 step. It strongly inhibits the generation of EAC1,4b,2a,3b,5b from C5 and EAC1,4b,2a,3b, and accelerates the decay of EAC1,4b,2a,3b,5b. It also causes some inhibition of the reactions of the reactions of C2,C3,C6,C7 and C9 with their respective preceding intermediate cells. It has no effect on the generation of EAC1,4b from C4 and EAC1, or of EAC-8 from C8 and EAC-7, and apparently increases the generation of EAC1,4b from C1 and EAC4b probably by inhibiting transfer or turnover of C1. It does not affect the rate of decay of EAC1,4b,2a or the T max of generation of EAC1,4b,2a, and it inhibits immune adherence only at high concentration. K-76 COOH also strongly inhibits hemolysis through the alternative pathway of C activation by cobra venom factor, but it does not seem to inhibit the early steps of the alternative pathway, because it has little affect on the consumption of C3 or the conversion of beta 1C to beta 1A on treatment of C serum with zymosan. K-76 COOH probably combines with C5 molecules, forming the inactive complexes, or it causes the structural alteration of C5.", "contents": "An anticomplementary agent, K-76 monocarboxylic acid: its site and mechanism of inhibition of the complement activation cascade. A monocarboxylic acid derivative (K-76 COOH) of K-76, purified from the culture filtrate of Stachybotrys complement I nov. sp. K-76, inhibits complement (C) activity. Its inhibitory action is mainly on C5 step. It strongly inhibits the generation of EAC1,4b,2a,3b,5b from C5 and EAC1,4b,2a,3b, and accelerates the decay of EAC1,4b,2a,3b,5b. It also causes some inhibition of the reactions of the reactions of C2,C3,C6,C7 and C9 with their respective preceding intermediate cells. It has no effect on the generation of EAC1,4b from C4 and EAC1, or of EAC-8 from C8 and EAC-7, and apparently increases the generation of EAC1,4b from C1 and EAC4b probably by inhibiting transfer or turnover of C1. It does not affect the rate of decay of EAC1,4b,2a or the T max of generation of EAC1,4b,2a, and it inhibits immune adherence only at high concentration. K-76 COOH also strongly inhibits hemolysis through the alternative pathway of C activation by cobra venom factor, but it does not seem to inhibit the early steps of the alternative pathway, because it has little affect on the consumption of C3 or the conversion of beta 1C to beta 1A on treatment of C serum with zymosan. K-76 COOH probably combines with C5 molecules, forming the inactive complexes, or it causes the structural alteration of C5.", "PMID": 448130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8456", "title": "Respective influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors on the age-related decrease of thymic secretion.", "content": "The serum level of a circulating thymic factor (FTS) described in our laboratory diminishes in mice after adult thymectomy and with age. However, thymuses from old mice, when grafted into young adult thymectomized recipients lacking circulating FTS, can still partially restore the circulating FTS level of the recipients, whereas newborn thymuses are less efficient in restoring the serum level of FTS in old recipients than in young adult thymectomized recipients. Taken together, our results suggests that in addition to an intrinsic deficiency of the thymic secretion, \"environmental\" factors play a role in the disappearance of circulating FTS with age, the more so since we observed in old mouse sera factors inhibiting the in vitro biologic activity of FTS, factors that are absent from young mouse sera.", "contents": "Respective influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors on the age-related decrease of thymic secretion. The serum level of a circulating thymic factor (FTS) described in our laboratory diminishes in mice after adult thymectomy and with age. However, thymuses from old mice, when grafted into young adult thymectomized recipients lacking circulating FTS, can still partially restore the circulating FTS level of the recipients, whereas newborn thymuses are less efficient in restoring the serum level of FTS in old recipients than in young adult thymectomized recipients. Taken together, our results suggests that in addition to an intrinsic deficiency of the thymic secretion, \"environmental\" factors play a role in the disappearance of circulating FTS with age, the more so since we observed in old mouse sera factors inhibiting the in vitro biologic activity of FTS, factors that are absent from young mouse sera.", "PMID": 448132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8457", "title": "Low molecular weight eosinophil chemotactic factor in granulomatous liver of murine schistosomiasis.", "content": "An acidic peptide, preferentially chemotactic for eosinophils, was extracted from livers of mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Sephadex G-25 column chromatography showed that the majority of the eosinophil chemotactic activity was detected in the fractions just after elution of the molecular marker vitamin B12 (m.w. 1355.4). This activity began to appear in the livers of some mice 5 weeks after infection. Peak activity was detected at 8 to 12 weeks after infection and persisted at least until 16 weeks. It was sensitive to carboxypeptidase-A. By Dowex-1 anion exchange chromatography, the activity eluted as a narrow peak at pH 3.1 TO 2.6 as shown for eosinophil chemotactic factor of anaphylaxis (ECF-A). The activity was also detected in a broad peak at pH 6.3 to 3.7. Unlike ECF-A, the activity was stable to boiling in both acid and alkali. These findings suggest that granulomatous liver of murine schistosomiasis-derived eosinophil chemotactic factor (ECF-G) may play a specific role in eosinophil accumulation in this chronic inflammation.", "contents": "Low molecular weight eosinophil chemotactic factor in granulomatous liver of murine schistosomiasis. An acidic peptide, preferentially chemotactic for eosinophils, was extracted from livers of mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Sephadex G-25 column chromatography showed that the majority of the eosinophil chemotactic activity was detected in the fractions just after elution of the molecular marker vitamin B12 (m.w. 1355.4). This activity began to appear in the livers of some mice 5 weeks after infection. Peak activity was detected at 8 to 12 weeks after infection and persisted at least until 16 weeks. It was sensitive to carboxypeptidase-A. By Dowex-1 anion exchange chromatography, the activity eluted as a narrow peak at pH 3.1 TO 2.6 as shown for eosinophil chemotactic factor of anaphylaxis (ECF-A). The activity was also detected in a broad peak at pH 6.3 to 3.7. Unlike ECF-A, the activity was stable to boiling in both acid and alkali. These findings suggest that granulomatous liver of murine schistosomiasis-derived eosinophil chemotactic factor (ECF-G) may play a specific role in eosinophil accumulation in this chronic inflammation.", "PMID": 448133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8458", "title": "Requirement for a bacterial flora before mice generate cells capable of mediating the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to sheep red blood cells.", "content": "A delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction can be elicited by an injection of 10(8) sheep red blood cells (SRBC) into a rear footpad of conventional (CV) mice previously immunized with small doses of SRBC. In contrast, immunization of germ-free (GF) mice with the same doses of SRBC produced no DTH when immunization was by the intravenous (i.v.) route, and only weak reactions when immunization was by the subcutaneous (footpad) route. Varying the immunizing dose of SRBC, or the time at which DTH was elicited, did not produce a state of DTH responsiveness in i.v. immunized GF mice. However, the transfer of lymphocytes from CV mice, immunized 4 to 5 days previously with SRBC, into GF mice, conferred on GF mice the capacity to express DTH. Although DTH was not readily demonstrable in GF mice immunized with SRBC, they nevertheless produced normal levels of hemagglutinating antibody to SRBC. Finally, it was shown that GF mice could generate a normal DTH response to SRBC if they were first monoassociated with a Gram-negative bacterial flora.", "contents": "Requirement for a bacterial flora before mice generate cells capable of mediating the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to sheep red blood cells. A delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction can be elicited by an injection of 10(8) sheep red blood cells (SRBC) into a rear footpad of conventional (CV) mice previously immunized with small doses of SRBC. In contrast, immunization of germ-free (GF) mice with the same doses of SRBC produced no DTH when immunization was by the intravenous (i.v.) route, and only weak reactions when immunization was by the subcutaneous (footpad) route. Varying the immunizing dose of SRBC, or the time at which DTH was elicited, did not produce a state of DTH responsiveness in i.v. immunized GF mice. However, the transfer of lymphocytes from CV mice, immunized 4 to 5 days previously with SRBC, into GF mice, conferred on GF mice the capacity to express DTH. Although DTH was not readily demonstrable in GF mice immunized with SRBC, they nevertheless produced normal levels of hemagglutinating antibody to SRBC. Finally, it was shown that GF mice could generate a normal DTH response to SRBC if they were first monoassociated with a Gram-negative bacterial flora.", "PMID": 448137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8459", "title": "Immunoprophylaxis of respiratory syncytial virus infection in the infant ferret.", "content": "Infant ferrets can be protected from respiratory syncytical virus challenge at 3 days of age by gestational infection of their mothers. Ferrets acquire their immunity to respiratory syncytial virus postpartum via immunizing products of lactation. The level of protection against viral replication correlates with the maternal serum neutralizing titer or a concomitant factor. Passive administration of adult ferret serum with a neutralizing titer of 1:1024 or greater, either i.p. or orally does not confer immunity. A nonantibody-mediated protective mechanism appears to play an important role in protecting the infant ferret from respiratory syncytial virus replication. Our findings allow the testing of the efficacy of future human vaccines before human clinical trial.", "contents": "Immunoprophylaxis of respiratory syncytial virus infection in the infant ferret. Infant ferrets can be protected from respiratory syncytical virus challenge at 3 days of age by gestational infection of their mothers. Ferrets acquire their immunity to respiratory syncytial virus postpartum via immunizing products of lactation. The level of protection against viral replication correlates with the maternal serum neutralizing titer or a concomitant factor. Passive administration of adult ferret serum with a neutralizing titer of 1:1024 or greater, either i.p. or orally does not confer immunity. A nonantibody-mediated protective mechanism appears to play an important role in protecting the infant ferret from respiratory syncytial virus replication. Our findings allow the testing of the efficacy of future human vaccines before human clinical trial.", "PMID": 448139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8460", "title": "Increased prostaglandin production by human monocytes after membrane receptor activation.", "content": "Human monocytes in culture release small amounts of prostaglandin E (PGE) into the medium. Addition of Fc fragments of IgG to human monocyte monolayer cultures results in a marked increase in PGE release; Fab fragments, monomeric IgG, and human serum albumin have no effect. An IgG1 myeloma has no effect on PGE levels but addition of the heat aggreagted protein results in a marked increase of PGE secretion. Exposure of the cells to Con A, which binds to a specific monocyte plasma membrane receptor, also results in a large increase in PGE release. The magnitude of the increase in PGE secretion produced by exposure of the monocytes to these ligands greatly exceeds the stimulation observed after the addition of antigen-activated mononuclear cell supernatants, zymosan, Sephadex beads, or endotoxin, to monocyte cultures. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) accounts for approximately 70% of the total prostaglandins released by stimulated cells. After addition of Indomethacin to monocyte cultures, the stimulatory effects of the ligands on PGE release are inhibited. Addition of Con A to monocyte cultures results in an increased incorporation of [3H]-arachidonic acid into PGE2. These results suggest that this ligand stimulates synthesis as well as release of this prostaglandin.", "contents": "Increased prostaglandin production by human monocytes after membrane receptor activation. Human monocytes in culture release small amounts of prostaglandin E (PGE) into the medium. Addition of Fc fragments of IgG to human monocyte monolayer cultures results in a marked increase in PGE release; Fab fragments, monomeric IgG, and human serum albumin have no effect. An IgG1 myeloma has no effect on PGE levels but addition of the heat aggreagted protein results in a marked increase of PGE secretion. Exposure of the cells to Con A, which binds to a specific monocyte plasma membrane receptor, also results in a large increase in PGE release. The magnitude of the increase in PGE secretion produced by exposure of the monocytes to these ligands greatly exceeds the stimulation observed after the addition of antigen-activated mononuclear cell supernatants, zymosan, Sephadex beads, or endotoxin, to monocyte cultures. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) accounts for approximately 70% of the total prostaglandins released by stimulated cells. After addition of Indomethacin to monocyte cultures, the stimulatory effects of the ligands on PGE release are inhibited. Addition of Con A to monocyte cultures results in an increased incorporation of [3H]-arachidonic acid into PGE2. These results suggest that this ligand stimulates synthesis as well as release of this prostaglandin.", "PMID": 448142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8461", "title": "Defective resistance to Plasmodium yoelii in CBA/N mice.", "content": "The role of B lymphocytes in resistance to malaria was studied in defective and normal F1 mice derived from CBA/N mice, a strain with an X-linked B cell defect. When infected with normally nonlethal Plasmodium yoelii, immune defective F1 male mice had higher parasitemias and more prolonged infections than normal F1 mice, as well as a 50% mortality rate. Before infection the plasma levels of IgM and IgG were lower in defective F1 males than normal F1 mice. The polyclonal IgM and IgG responses of infected abnormal F1 mice were delayed and lower in absolute magnitude than those of normal F1 mice. Furthermore, specific IgM and IgG anti-plasmodial antibody titers, as determined by radioimmunoassay, were depressed on day 12 in the defective F1 males. Although IgG titers approached those of the normal F1 mice on day 19, defective F1 male IgM titers remained depressed. These data demonstrate that an X-linked gene that affects B cell function influences malarial resistance in mice, presumably via a decreased specific IgM response, and the slow development of a specific IgG response to P. yoelii infection.", "contents": "Defective resistance to Plasmodium yoelii in CBA/N mice. The role of B lymphocytes in resistance to malaria was studied in defective and normal F1 mice derived from CBA/N mice, a strain with an X-linked B cell defect. When infected with normally nonlethal Plasmodium yoelii, immune defective F1 male mice had higher parasitemias and more prolonged infections than normal F1 mice, as well as a 50% mortality rate. Before infection the plasma levels of IgM and IgG were lower in defective F1 males than normal F1 mice. The polyclonal IgM and IgG responses of infected abnormal F1 mice were delayed and lower in absolute magnitude than those of normal F1 mice. Furthermore, specific IgM and IgG anti-plasmodial antibody titers, as determined by radioimmunoassay, were depressed on day 12 in the defective F1 males. Although IgG titers approached those of the normal F1 mice on day 19, defective F1 male IgM titers remained depressed. These data demonstrate that an X-linked gene that affects B cell function influences malarial resistance in mice, presumably via a decreased specific IgM response, and the slow development of a specific IgG response to P. yoelii infection.", "PMID": 448143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8462", "title": "Isolation of functional subsets of human peripheral blood monocytes.", "content": "Monocytes were isolated by counterflow centrifugation of Ficoll-Hypaque separated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The monocytes formed a bimodal volume distribution of \"large\" and \"small\" phagocytic esterase-positive, peroxidase-positive cells with peaks at 470 and 410 mu3, respectively. The large monocytes were predominately Fc receptor positive, and were able to lyse both sensitized human and chicken erythrocyte targets in ADCC assays, whereas the small monocytes were largely FcR negative and were inactive against sensitized human erythrocyte targets. However, ADCC against chicken erythrocyte targets was seen in some fractions containing small monocytes and was probably due to FcR+ lymphocytes (K cells) in those fractions. These experiments establish that monocytes are effectors of ADCC against both human and chicken erythrocyte targets and that the peripheral blood monocyte is heterogeneous in size, function, and surface receptor distribution.", "contents": "Isolation of functional subsets of human peripheral blood monocytes. Monocytes were isolated by counterflow centrifugation of Ficoll-Hypaque separated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The monocytes formed a bimodal volume distribution of \"large\" and \"small\" phagocytic esterase-positive, peroxidase-positive cells with peaks at 470 and 410 mu3, respectively. The large monocytes were predominately Fc receptor positive, and were able to lyse both sensitized human and chicken erythrocyte targets in ADCC assays, whereas the small monocytes were largely FcR negative and were inactive against sensitized human erythrocyte targets. However, ADCC against chicken erythrocyte targets was seen in some fractions containing small monocytes and was probably due to FcR+ lymphocytes (K cells) in those fractions. These experiments establish that monocytes are effectors of ADCC against both human and chicken erythrocyte targets and that the peripheral blood monocyte is heterogeneous in size, function, and surface receptor distribution.", "PMID": 448146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8463", "title": "Murine antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity to herpes simplex virus-infected target cells.", "content": "Freshly collected peritoneal cells (PC) and cultured spleen cells (SC) (but not fresh SC) from nonimmune mice could mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against herpes simplex virus (HSV)-infected cells in the presence of mouse or human sera containing antibody to HSV. PC also demonstrated variable natural killer cell cytotoxicity to infected cells. Both PC and cultured SC required high concentrations of antibody and high effector to target cell ratios for optimal ADCC. The time kinetics of the reaction appeared to depend on the state of activation of the effector cells. In both PC and SC populations, ADCC activity was limited to adherent cells, and was profoundly inhibited by particulate latex or silica. The murine effector cell found in PC and SC able to mediate ADCC to HSV-infected cells appears to be a macrophage.", "contents": "Murine antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity to herpes simplex virus-infected target cells. Freshly collected peritoneal cells (PC) and cultured spleen cells (SC) (but not fresh SC) from nonimmune mice could mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against herpes simplex virus (HSV)-infected cells in the presence of mouse or human sera containing antibody to HSV. PC also demonstrated variable natural killer cell cytotoxicity to infected cells. Both PC and cultured SC required high concentrations of antibody and high effector to target cell ratios for optimal ADCC. The time kinetics of the reaction appeared to depend on the state of activation of the effector cells. In both PC and SC populations, ADCC activity was limited to adherent cells, and was profoundly inhibited by particulate latex or silica. The murine effector cell found in PC and SC able to mediate ADCC to HSV-infected cells appears to be a macrophage.", "PMID": 448149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8464", "title": "Human leukocyte Fc (IgG) receptors: quantitation and affinity with radiolabeled affinity cross-linked rabbit IgG.", "content": "Quantitative studies have been made of Fc receptors on human leukocytes derived from peripheral blood, thymus, tonsil, and spleen. The relative affinities and average numbers of receptors per cell were determined by measuring the binding of 125I-labeled, affinity cross-linked trimers of rabbit IgG to various populations of cells. In parallel, the sizes of receptor-bearing populations were determined by fluorescence microscopy. Fc receptors could be detected on leukocytes from peripheral blood and spleen, but not from tonsil or thymus. In the peripheral blood, the highest density of receptors was found on polymorphonuclear leukocytes; a subpopulation of lymphocytes had somewhat fewer receptors per cell, and circulating monocytes had the lowest receptor density. Among splenocytes, most of the receptors were found on myeloid cells and monocytes. In all populations, the affinity of Fc receptors for the trimer was about the same. At 0 degrees C the average value for the association constant was 5 x 10(7) M-1.", "contents": "Human leukocyte Fc (IgG) receptors: quantitation and affinity with radiolabeled affinity cross-linked rabbit IgG. Quantitative studies have been made of Fc receptors on human leukocytes derived from peripheral blood, thymus, tonsil, and spleen. The relative affinities and average numbers of receptors per cell were determined by measuring the binding of 125I-labeled, affinity cross-linked trimers of rabbit IgG to various populations of cells. In parallel, the sizes of receptor-bearing populations were determined by fluorescence microscopy. Fc receptors could be detected on leukocytes from peripheral blood and spleen, but not from tonsil or thymus. In the peripheral blood, the highest density of receptors was found on polymorphonuclear leukocytes; a subpopulation of lymphocytes had somewhat fewer receptors per cell, and circulating monocytes had the lowest receptor density. Among splenocytes, most of the receptors were found on myeloid cells and monocytes. In all populations, the affinity of Fc receptors for the trimer was about the same. At 0 degrees C the average value for the association constant was 5 x 10(7) M-1.", "PMID": 448151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8465", "title": "Lack of correlation between neutralizing antibody production and suppression of coxsackievirus B-3 replication in target organs: evidence for involvement of mononuclear inflammatory cells in host defense.", "content": "CD-1 mice inoculated with coxsackievirus B-3 i.p. developed a generalized infection involving the heart, pancreas, and liver. The disease was nonlethal and viral growth in the target organs was terminated in about a week. Administration of cortisone acetate 30 min to 2 hr before infection markedly enhanced the severity of disesae. Abnormally high titers of virus were found in the target organs between days 3 and 7 with persistence of infectious virus in the heart for at least 2 weeks. In addition the extent of necrosis of myofibers, pancreatic acini, and hepatic parenchyma was increased and a high percentage of the animals died. There was no evidence that the anti-viral antibody response was impaired in steroid-treated mice since concentrations of neutralizing antibody in the circulation were normal. In contrast, immigration of mononuclear inflammatory cells into the hearts of these animals was depressed and when present, foci of inflammation contained some polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The data indicate that inhibition of coxsackieviral growth cannot be attributed to the sole effects of neutralizing antibody and suggest that mononuclear inflammatory cells infiltrating the heart play a role in primary host defense.", "contents": "Lack of correlation between neutralizing antibody production and suppression of coxsackievirus B-3 replication in target organs: evidence for involvement of mononuclear inflammatory cells in host defense. CD-1 mice inoculated with coxsackievirus B-3 i.p. developed a generalized infection involving the heart, pancreas, and liver. The disease was nonlethal and viral growth in the target organs was terminated in about a week. Administration of cortisone acetate 30 min to 2 hr before infection markedly enhanced the severity of disesae. Abnormally high titers of virus were found in the target organs between days 3 and 7 with persistence of infectious virus in the heart for at least 2 weeks. In addition the extent of necrosis of myofibers, pancreatic acini, and hepatic parenchyma was increased and a high percentage of the animals died. There was no evidence that the anti-viral antibody response was impaired in steroid-treated mice since concentrations of neutralizing antibody in the circulation were normal. In contrast, immigration of mononuclear inflammatory cells into the hearts of these animals was depressed and when present, foci of inflammation contained some polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The data indicate that inhibition of coxsackieviral growth cannot be attributed to the sole effects of neutralizing antibody and suggest that mononuclear inflammatory cells infiltrating the heart play a role in primary host defense.", "PMID": 448152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8466", "title": "Re-expression of nonglycosylated surface IgA in trypsin-treated MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells.", "content": "The importance of glycosylation for the re-expression of surface immunoglobulin in trypsin-treated MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells was examined by using tunicamycin, an antibiotic that prevents glycosylation by inhibiting the formation of N-acetylglucosamine-lipid intermediates. Tunicamycin greatly inhibited the secretion of nonglycosylated MOPC 315 IgA in trypsin-treated cells. Two hours after trypsin treatment, there was an 80% inhibition of secretion as measured by immunoprecipitation assays of biosynthetically labeled immunoglobulin. However, tunicamycin had no effect on the time course of re-expression of surface IgA in these cells as measured by TNP-sheep erythrocyte rosette formation and [125I] TNP-albumin binding to the plasmacytoma cells. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of 125I-labeled cell surface IgA re-expressed in the presence of tunicamycin revealed a protein with an apparent m.w. identical to nonglycosylated MOPC 315 alpha-chains, further suggesting that nonglycosylated surface IgA was being inserted into the plasma membrane. This protein did not bind to concanavalin A-Sepharose. These data suggest that in MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells, glycosylation is necessary for immunoglobulin secretion but not for immunoglobulin expression at the cell surface.", "contents": "Re-expression of nonglycosylated surface IgA in trypsin-treated MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells. The importance of glycosylation for the re-expression of surface immunoglobulin in trypsin-treated MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells was examined by using tunicamycin, an antibiotic that prevents glycosylation by inhibiting the formation of N-acetylglucosamine-lipid intermediates. Tunicamycin greatly inhibited the secretion of nonglycosylated MOPC 315 IgA in trypsin-treated cells. Two hours after trypsin treatment, there was an 80% inhibition of secretion as measured by immunoprecipitation assays of biosynthetically labeled immunoglobulin. However, tunicamycin had no effect on the time course of re-expression of surface IgA in these cells as measured by TNP-sheep erythrocyte rosette formation and [125I] TNP-albumin binding to the plasmacytoma cells. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of 125I-labeled cell surface IgA re-expressed in the presence of tunicamycin revealed a protein with an apparent m.w. identical to nonglycosylated MOPC 315 alpha-chains, further suggesting that nonglycosylated surface IgA was being inserted into the plasma membrane. This protein did not bind to concanavalin A-Sepharose. These data suggest that in MOPC 315 plasmacytoma cells, glycosylation is necessary for immunoglobulin secretion but not for immunoglobulin expression at the cell surface.", "PMID": 448154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8467", "title": "Studies on in vivo priming of the TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell system. I. Comparison of the effects of intravenous inoculation with TNP-conjugated cells on the development of contact sensitivity and cell-mediated lympholysis.", "content": "A comparison was made of the effects of i.v. inoculation of trinitrophenyl-(TNP) conjugated syngeneic cells on the subsequent in vitro generation of TNP-reactive effector cell activity and on the in vivo development of TNP-contact sensitivity. The administration of syngeneic TNP-conjugated spleen cells before 2,4,6-trinitro-1-chlorobenzene (TNCB) painting abolished the capability of animals to develop TNP-contact sensitivity. In contrast, the same treatment resulted in an appreciable augmentation in the generation of TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell activity as measured by subsequent in vitro sensitization with TNP-conjugated cells. The possible mechanisms by which enhanced TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell activity was elicited under conditions identical to those that induced unresponsiveness for TNP-contact sensitivity are discussed.", "contents": "Studies on in vivo priming of the TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell system. I. Comparison of the effects of intravenous inoculation with TNP-conjugated cells on the development of contact sensitivity and cell-mediated lympholysis. A comparison was made of the effects of i.v. inoculation of trinitrophenyl-(TNP) conjugated syngeneic cells on the subsequent in vitro generation of TNP-reactive effector cell activity and on the in vivo development of TNP-contact sensitivity. The administration of syngeneic TNP-conjugated spleen cells before 2,4,6-trinitro-1-chlorobenzene (TNCB) painting abolished the capability of animals to develop TNP-contact sensitivity. In contrast, the same treatment resulted in an appreciable augmentation in the generation of TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell activity as measured by subsequent in vitro sensitization with TNP-conjugated cells. The possible mechanisms by which enhanced TNP-reactive cytotoxic effector cell activity was elicited under conditions identical to those that induced unresponsiveness for TNP-contact sensitivity are discussed.", "PMID": 448155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8468", "title": "Glucocorticoids inhibit trypsin-induced DNA release from phytohemagglutinin-stimulated blood lymphocytes.", "content": "Trypsin-induced DNA release from phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated human lymphocytes is inhibited by different glucocorticosteroid compounds at low pharmacologic concentrations, in a dose-dependent manner, and in order of the known anti-inflammatory potency of the different preparations. In contrast, PHA-stimulated cell growth is 100- to 1000-fold less sensitive to inhibition by the same glucocorticoids. Nonglucocorticoid steroids have little effect on either DNA release or cell growth except at high concentrations. Inhibition of DNA release appears to be mediated through glucocorticoid receptors since progesterone, which is ineffective alone, competitively inhibits the effect of dexamethasone. The glucocorticoid effect on DNA release is tightly coupled to the initial, PHA-induced stimulus. Glucocorticoids are maximally effective when added to cultures 1 hr before PHA. When added 6 hr after PHA, their effect is minimal or absent, even though they are then continuously present until DNA release is measured 5 days later. Lymphocytes from certain donors in these studies were resistant to glucocorticoids; these individuals all had allergies, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and bee sting hypersensitivity.", "contents": "Glucocorticoids inhibit trypsin-induced DNA release from phytohemagglutinin-stimulated blood lymphocytes. Trypsin-induced DNA release from phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated human lymphocytes is inhibited by different glucocorticosteroid compounds at low pharmacologic concentrations, in a dose-dependent manner, and in order of the known anti-inflammatory potency of the different preparations. In contrast, PHA-stimulated cell growth is 100- to 1000-fold less sensitive to inhibition by the same glucocorticoids. Nonglucocorticoid steroids have little effect on either DNA release or cell growth except at high concentrations. Inhibition of DNA release appears to be mediated through glucocorticoid receptors since progesterone, which is ineffective alone, competitively inhibits the effect of dexamethasone. The glucocorticoid effect on DNA release is tightly coupled to the initial, PHA-induced stimulus. Glucocorticoids are maximally effective when added to cultures 1 hr before PHA. When added 6 hr after PHA, their effect is minimal or absent, even though they are then continuously present until DNA release is measured 5 days later. Lymphocytes from certain donors in these studies were resistant to glucocorticoids; these individuals all had allergies, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and bee sting hypersensitivity.", "PMID": 448157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8469", "title": "Ontogeny of the ferret humoral immune response.", "content": "Infant ferrets are born with nearly undetectable immunoglobulin levels, but by 9 days of age the infant ferret serum contains 77, 29, and 13% of adult mean serum levels of IgG, IgA, and IgM. Transmucosal uptake of IgG by the infant ferret occurred for the first 30 days of life. The specific anti-respiratory syncytial virus neutralizing titer of whole milk was 5.5 times higher than maternal serum despite a lower concentration of immunoglobulins in the milk.", "contents": "Ontogeny of the ferret humoral immune response. Infant ferrets are born with nearly undetectable immunoglobulin levels, but by 9 days of age the infant ferret serum contains 77, 29, and 13% of adult mean serum levels of IgG, IgA, and IgM. Transmucosal uptake of IgG by the infant ferret occurred for the first 30 days of life. The specific anti-respiratory syncytial virus neutralizing titer of whole milk was 5.5 times higher than maternal serum despite a lower concentration of immunoglobulins in the milk.", "PMID": 448158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8470", "title": "Effect of dicarboxylic acids on lentigo maligna.", "content": "Dicarboxylic acids from C8 to C14 are competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase in vitro, and here, the effect of a cream containing 15% azelaic acid (C9) on 3 cases of lentigo maligna is described. The lesions were treated for 90 days, with remarkable clinical and histological effect, maintained for up to 2 yr after cessation of treatment. Progress during treatment of one case was additionally monitored by electron microscopy, which revealed progressive elimination of abnormal melanocytes both basally and suprabasally, and their replacement by essentially normal cells engaged in normal melanogenesis. There was also progressive diminution in the general disorganization of the epidermis, and disappearance of lymphocyte response. It is concluded that dicarboxylic acids have a direct inhibitory and cytotoxic effect on abnormally active or structurally disordered melanocytes in lentigo maligna, but further investigations are required to establish their precise mode of action. Similar application of dicarboxylic acids to normal skin affects only a small proportion of melanocytes, suggesting that some phasic factor, or individual states of activity, may be concerned in their susceptibility.", "contents": "Effect of dicarboxylic acids on lentigo maligna. Dicarboxylic acids from C8 to C14 are competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase in vitro, and here, the effect of a cream containing 15% azelaic acid (C9) on 3 cases of lentigo maligna is described. The lesions were treated for 90 days, with remarkable clinical and histological effect, maintained for up to 2 yr after cessation of treatment. Progress during treatment of one case was additionally monitored by electron microscopy, which revealed progressive elimination of abnormal melanocytes both basally and suprabasally, and their replacement by essentially normal cells engaged in normal melanogenesis. There was also progressive diminution in the general disorganization of the epidermis, and disappearance of lymphocyte response. It is concluded that dicarboxylic acids have a direct inhibitory and cytotoxic effect on abnormally active or structurally disordered melanocytes in lentigo maligna, but further investigations are required to establish their precise mode of action. Similar application of dicarboxylic acids to normal skin affects only a small proportion of melanocytes, suggesting that some phasic factor, or individual states of activity, may be concerned in their susceptibility.", "PMID": 448162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8471", "title": "Heterotransplantation of human basal cell carcinomas in \"nude\" mice.", "content": "Human basal cell carcinomas, obtained from 10 subjects were transplanted to 25 \"nude\" mice. Two methods of transplantation were used and compared. Grafting gave better results than subcutaneous implantation. Tumor cells were identified in 5 mice, however only 2 of them developed lesions with histology similar to human basal cell carcinoma. Grafts, in which tumors developed, were obtained from superficial basal cell carcinoma. No reasons for the cause of the low percentage of successful transplantation and slow rates of growth of the transplants are found; however, possible immunological, vascular and environmental factors are discussed.", "contents": "Heterotransplantation of human basal cell carcinomas in \"nude\" mice. Human basal cell carcinomas, obtained from 10 subjects were transplanted to 25 \"nude\" mice. Two methods of transplantation were used and compared. Grafting gave better results than subcutaneous implantation. Tumor cells were identified in 5 mice, however only 2 of them developed lesions with histology similar to human basal cell carcinoma. Grafts, in which tumors developed, were obtained from superficial basal cell carcinoma. No reasons for the cause of the low percentage of successful transplantation and slow rates of growth of the transplants are found; however, possible immunological, vascular and environmental factors are discussed.", "PMID": 448164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8472", "title": "Evaporation of diethyltoluamide from human skin in vivo and in vitro.", "content": "Relative evaporation and penetration of the insect repellent, N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, has been measured by 3 methods, 2 in vivo and 1 in vitro. The evaporation rate 30 min after application was found to be similar by all 3 methods. At an applied dose of 0.25 microgram/cm2, 9.6% in vivo and 9.7% in vitro evaporated from the skin in the first hour after application. Although the techniques used produced similar results in vivo and in vitro for diethyltoluamide, studies are being conducted to further elucidate kinetics of loss by evaporation.", "contents": "Evaporation of diethyltoluamide from human skin in vivo and in vitro. Relative evaporation and penetration of the insect repellent, N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, has been measured by 3 methods, 2 in vivo and 1 in vitro. The evaporation rate 30 min after application was found to be similar by all 3 methods. At an applied dose of 0.25 microgram/cm2, 9.6% in vivo and 9.7% in vitro evaporated from the skin in the first hour after application. Although the techniques used produced similar results in vivo and in vitro for diethyltoluamide, studies are being conducted to further elucidate kinetics of loss by evaporation.", "PMID": 448165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8473", "title": "Tumor-susceptibility generated in mice treated with subcarcinogenic doses of 8-methoxypsoralen and long-wave ultraviolet light.", "content": "Evidence is presented to show that mice treated with various regimens of 8-methoxypsoralen followed by exposure to long-wave ultraviolet light (PUVA) are rendered tumor-susceptible when challenged with short-wave ultraviolet light (UVB) induced regressor tumors. These same tumors are readily rejected when implanted into normal syngeneic animals. Similar observations have been made in mice treated with subcarcinogenic doses of UVB, where it was shown that the tumor-susceptible state is mediated by suppressor T lymphocytes. These suppressor T-cells may be generated in response to antigens expressed by UVB damaged skin cells. It is now known that suppressor T-cells generated in mice treated with UVB are Ia-positive and have specificities for cross-reacting tumor antigens shared by all UVB-induced tumors, which have been tested to date. Our data suggest that, like UVB treated mice, treatment of mice with PUVA results in tumor-susceptibility mediated through the generation of Ia+ suppressor cells. Since PUVA treatments appear to generate a suppressor cell response in mice, a possible mechanism by which these treatments act to manage autoimmune type skin diseases, such as vitiligo, is discussed.", "contents": "Tumor-susceptibility generated in mice treated with subcarcinogenic doses of 8-methoxypsoralen and long-wave ultraviolet light. Evidence is presented to show that mice treated with various regimens of 8-methoxypsoralen followed by exposure to long-wave ultraviolet light (PUVA) are rendered tumor-susceptible when challenged with short-wave ultraviolet light (UVB) induced regressor tumors. These same tumors are readily rejected when implanted into normal syngeneic animals. Similar observations have been made in mice treated with subcarcinogenic doses of UVB, where it was shown that the tumor-susceptible state is mediated by suppressor T lymphocytes. These suppressor T-cells may be generated in response to antigens expressed by UVB damaged skin cells. It is now known that suppressor T-cells generated in mice treated with UVB are Ia-positive and have specificities for cross-reacting tumor antigens shared by all UVB-induced tumors, which have been tested to date. Our data suggest that, like UVB treated mice, treatment of mice with PUVA results in tumor-susceptibility mediated through the generation of Ia+ suppressor cells. Since PUVA treatments appear to generate a suppressor cell response in mice, a possible mechanism by which these treatments act to manage autoimmune type skin diseases, such as vitiligo, is discussed.", "PMID": 448163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8474", "title": "Effects of neutron radiation on mouse hair matrix cell populations.", "content": "We have investigated the effects of a single low dose of 42 rads neutron radiation on hair matrix cell kinetics. Anagen hair skin sites in 3-mo-old Carworth Farms no. 1 female mice were exposed to a fast neutron beam yielding a modal energy of 3.6 MeV. In contrast to low LET (linear energy transfer) radiation at a 2 1/2 fold higher dose, neutrons induced a markedly prolonged depression (greater than 60%) in the mitotic index for more than 18 hr postradiation. In addition, from 10--18 hr after neutron irradiation sharp elevations (greater than 80%) in the labeling indices apparently reflected significant impairment in cell maturation rates and/or slowed exit rates from the proliferative compartments. Postradiation reductions of up to 20% in the size of proliferating matrix cell populations were found. At the cellular level, this study confirms previous findings of a disproportionately high relative biological effectiveness for neutron radiation following low dose level exposure.", "contents": "Effects of neutron radiation on mouse hair matrix cell populations. We have investigated the effects of a single low dose of 42 rads neutron radiation on hair matrix cell kinetics. Anagen hair skin sites in 3-mo-old Carworth Farms no. 1 female mice were exposed to a fast neutron beam yielding a modal energy of 3.6 MeV. In contrast to low LET (linear energy transfer) radiation at a 2 1/2 fold higher dose, neutrons induced a markedly prolonged depression (greater than 60%) in the mitotic index for more than 18 hr postradiation. In addition, from 10--18 hr after neutron irradiation sharp elevations (greater than 80%) in the labeling indices apparently reflected significant impairment in cell maturation rates and/or slowed exit rates from the proliferative compartments. Postradiation reductions of up to 20% in the size of proliferating matrix cell populations were found. At the cellular level, this study confirms previous findings of a disproportionately high relative biological effectiveness for neutron radiation following low dose level exposure.", "PMID": 448166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8475", "title": "Experimental tinea versicolor in rabbits and humans with Pityrosporum orbiculare.", "content": "The purpose of this investigation was to produce experimental tinea versicolor in rabbits and humans with Pityrosporum orbiculare. Inoculation with P. orbiculare under plastic occlusion on the glabrous follicle-rich inside of the rabbit ear resulted in a tinea versicolor-like lesion after 1 week in 3 of 4 animals. One week after inoculation with P. orbiculare under plastic occlusion, experimental infections similar to those found clinically in tinea versicolor were seen in 10 of 12 patients with a history of tinea versicolor and in 3 of 6 normal volunteers. It was not possible to produce experimental infections without occlusion. Spontaneous healing usually occurred.", "contents": "Experimental tinea versicolor in rabbits and humans with Pityrosporum orbiculare. The purpose of this investigation was to produce experimental tinea versicolor in rabbits and humans with Pityrosporum orbiculare. Inoculation with P. orbiculare under plastic occlusion on the glabrous follicle-rich inside of the rabbit ear resulted in a tinea versicolor-like lesion after 1 week in 3 of 4 animals. One week after inoculation with P. orbiculare under plastic occlusion, experimental infections similar to those found clinically in tinea versicolor were seen in 10 of 12 patients with a history of tinea versicolor and in 3 of 6 normal volunteers. It was not possible to produce experimental infections without occlusion. Spontaneous healing usually occurred.", "PMID": 448167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8476", "title": "DNA repair processes protect human beings from premature solar skin damage: evidence from studies on xeroderma pigmentosum.", "content": "The repair of DNA damage by ultraviolet light is defective in the hereditary disease xeroderma pigmentosum. A deoxyribonucleotide excision-proficient form and several excision-deficient forms of xeroderma pigmentosum have been identified. Premature solar skin damage develops in all xeroderma pigmentosum patients. Some patients also have neurological abnormalities caused by premature death of nerve cells. This abnormal aging of the central nervous system and of sun-exposed skin appears to be the result of the abnormal DNA repair processes. Clinical, biological, and physicochemical studies on DNA-repair-dependent processes and on the DNA repair defects in xeroderma pigmentosum are elucidating the mechanisms by which such abnormal aging is prevented in normal human beings.", "contents": "DNA repair processes protect human beings from premature solar skin damage: evidence from studies on xeroderma pigmentosum. The repair of DNA damage by ultraviolet light is defective in the hereditary disease xeroderma pigmentosum. A deoxyribonucleotide excision-proficient form and several excision-deficient forms of xeroderma pigmentosum have been identified. Premature solar skin damage develops in all xeroderma pigmentosum patients. Some patients also have neurological abnormalities caused by premature death of nerve cells. This abnormal aging of the central nervous system and of sun-exposed skin appears to be the result of the abnormal DNA repair processes. Clinical, biological, and physicochemical studies on DNA-repair-dependent processes and on the DNA repair defects in xeroderma pigmentosum are elucidating the mechanisms by which such abnormal aging is prevented in normal human beings.", "PMID": 448168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8477", "title": "Age-related changes in sebaceous gland activity.", "content": "The sebaceous glands of man show age-related differences in their activity as determined by quantitative and qualitative examination of sebum. Sebaceous secretion is low in children and begins to increase in mid- to late childhood under the influence of androgens. This rise continues until the late teens, after which no further significant change takes place until late in life. In elderly men, sebum levels remain essentially unchanged from those of younger adults until the age of 80. In women, sebaceous secretion decreases gradually after menopause and shows no significant change after the 7th decade. The most likely explanation for the decrease in sebaceous gland secretion with age in both men and women is a concomitant decrease in the endogenous production of androgens. Although surface lipid levels fall with age, paradoxically the sebaceous glands become larger, rather than smaller, as a result of decreased cellular turnover. Nonetheless, as the higher surface lipid levels after administration of fluoxymesterone (a synthetic testosterone derivative) indicate, the glands have the capacity to respond to androgens.", "contents": "Age-related changes in sebaceous gland activity. The sebaceous glands of man show age-related differences in their activity as determined by quantitative and qualitative examination of sebum. Sebaceous secretion is low in children and begins to increase in mid- to late childhood under the influence of androgens. This rise continues until the late teens, after which no further significant change takes place until late in life. In elderly men, sebum levels remain essentially unchanged from those of younger adults until the age of 80. In women, sebaceous secretion decreases gradually after menopause and shows no significant change after the 7th decade. The most likely explanation for the decrease in sebaceous gland secretion with age in both men and women is a concomitant decrease in the endogenous production of androgens. Although surface lipid levels fall with age, paradoxically the sebaceous glands become larger, rather than smaller, as a result of decreased cellular turnover. Nonetheless, as the higher surface lipid levels after administration of fluoxymesterone (a synthetic testosterone derivative) indicate, the glands have the capacity to respond to androgens.", "PMID": 448169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8478", "title": "The effect of aging on the rate of linear nail growth.", "content": "The linear nail growth rate is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive technique for the measurement of aging. When the many endogenous and exogenous factors known to influence this rate are either controlled or considered, the measurement of the rate for 1 year gives data that are both age-related and age-caused. The rate of linear nail growth decreases 50% over the life spans of both dogs and humans. In the beagle, which has a life span 20% that of man, the rate of decrease is 5 times faster than in man. There are circadian and multiple-year biorhythms of the rate of linear nail growth. There are approximately 7-yr periods of slow decline that alternate with 7-yr periods of more rapid decline.", "contents": "The effect of aging on the rate of linear nail growth. The linear nail growth rate is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive technique for the measurement of aging. When the many endogenous and exogenous factors known to influence this rate are either controlled or considered, the measurement of the rate for 1 year gives data that are both age-related and age-caused. The rate of linear nail growth decreases 50% over the life spans of both dogs and humans. In the beagle, which has a life span 20% that of man, the rate of decrease is 5 times faster than in man. There are circadian and multiple-year biorhythms of the rate of linear nail growth. There are approximately 7-yr periods of slow decline that alternate with 7-yr periods of more rapid decline.", "PMID": 448171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8479", "title": "Aging, environmental influences, and photocarcinogenesis.", "content": "Repeated exposure of human skin to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) over a period of many years is responsible for the induction of most nonmelanoma skin cancers in man. The tumors are progressively more common in chronologically older people. Is this fact purely a function of adequate dose accumulation and development time, or is tumor expression influenced by \"physiological age\"? The answer to this question influences risk estimates of the results of atmosphere modification. Data from animal studies indicate that the tumor incidence is affected by dose-delivery factors and not just by the accumulated lifetime dose. In addition, young mice are more prone to tumor induction by a given UVR dose than are older animals. Because the quanlity and quantity of the stimulus (UVR) can be readily manipulated and accurately described, studies on photocarcinogenesis offer distinct possibilities for untangling some of the interactive variables in the aging process.", "contents": "Aging, environmental influences, and photocarcinogenesis. Repeated exposure of human skin to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) over a period of many years is responsible for the induction of most nonmelanoma skin cancers in man. The tumors are progressively more common in chronologically older people. Is this fact purely a function of adequate dose accumulation and development time, or is tumor expression influenced by \"physiological age\"? The answer to this question influences risk estimates of the results of atmosphere modification. Data from animal studies indicate that the tumor incidence is affected by dose-delivery factors and not just by the accumulated lifetime dose. In addition, young mice are more prone to tumor induction by a given UVR dose than are older animals. Because the quanlity and quantity of the stimulus (UVR) can be readily manipulated and accurately described, studies on photocarcinogenesis offer distinct possibilities for untangling some of the interactive variables in the aging process.", "PMID": 448172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8480", "title": "Aging and cultured human skin fibroblasts.", "content": "We have studied aging at the cellular level by examining skin fibroblast cultures derived from skin biopsy samples obtained from old and young members of a longitudinal study on human aging. Results from a number of studies already completed indicate that cell cultures from old human donors, unlike cultures from young donors, have impaired cell proliferation and reduced induction of sister chromatid exchanges. A number of other parameters, however, are not affected by the age of the human fibroblast donor. These include cell protein and RNA content and the rate of cellular macromolecular synthesis. Studying cell cultures derived from members of an ongoing longitudinal study permits examination of correlations between in vivo and in vitro measurements on the same people. In addition, it allows for future longitudinal studies on human cellular aging.", "contents": "Aging and cultured human skin fibroblasts. We have studied aging at the cellular level by examining skin fibroblast cultures derived from skin biopsy samples obtained from old and young members of a longitudinal study on human aging. Results from a number of studies already completed indicate that cell cultures from old human donors, unlike cultures from young donors, have impaired cell proliferation and reduced induction of sister chromatid exchanges. A number of other parameters, however, are not affected by the age of the human fibroblast donor. These include cell protein and RNA content and the rate of cellular macromolecular synthesis. Studying cell cultures derived from members of an ongoing longitudinal study permits examination of correlations between in vivo and in vitro measurements on the same people. In addition, it allows for future longitudinal studies on human cellular aging.", "PMID": 448173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8481", "title": "Aging research: current and future.", "content": "The key events that lead to organismic senescence appear to occur in cells that have been genetically programmed to arrest their own proliferation. After arrest, a variety of subcellular events occur, among the more important of which are the accumulation of waste product pigments, an increase in the fraction of inactive enzymes, and (probably of central importance) the loss of key genes, specifically those that code for rRNA. An understanding of the senescence of the epidermis and dermis would almost certainly provide answers to related problems in those organ systems whose sudden or slow failure leads to individual death.", "contents": "Aging research: current and future. The key events that lead to organismic senescence appear to occur in cells that have been genetically programmed to arrest their own proliferation. After arrest, a variety of subcellular events occur, among the more important of which are the accumulation of waste product pigments, an increase in the fraction of inactive enzymes, and (probably of central importance) the loss of key genes, specifically those that code for rRNA. An understanding of the senescence of the epidermis and dermis would almost certainly provide answers to related problems in those organ systems whose sudden or slow failure leads to individual death.", "PMID": 448175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8482", "title": "Cellular immunity in aging.", "content": "Our study of the aging process in human beings and in mice is complicated by our need to know whether we are observing diseases of aging or natural nondisease state processes. Results from studies on inbred strains of mice and retrospective studies on HLA types in aging human populations suggest that genetic effects play a significant role in predetermining the life span of an individual. It is clear that in such mouse strains genetic defects that affect cell regulatory mechanisms result in the production of autoimmune reactivity, tumor development, and a shortened life span. In human beings, although results are less clear-cut, strong associations exist between some disease states and the HLA type. Also, the disappearance of HLA-B8 from older women suggests that this HLA type does not confer longevity. Cellular immune reactivity declines with age in all populations studied to date, and cell cooperative or regulatory mechanisms function less well. We need to characterize the specific nature of the cells directly responsible for these alterations and to attempt to correct deficiencies by dietary manipulation or transfer techniques.", "contents": "Cellular immunity in aging. Our study of the aging process in human beings and in mice is complicated by our need to know whether we are observing diseases of aging or natural nondisease state processes. Results from studies on inbred strains of mice and retrospective studies on HLA types in aging human populations suggest that genetic effects play a significant role in predetermining the life span of an individual. It is clear that in such mouse strains genetic defects that affect cell regulatory mechanisms result in the production of autoimmune reactivity, tumor development, and a shortened life span. In human beings, although results are less clear-cut, strong associations exist between some disease states and the HLA type. Also, the disappearance of HLA-B8 from older women suggests that this HLA type does not confer longevity. Cellular immune reactivity declines with age in all populations studied to date, and cell cooperative or regulatory mechanisms function less well. We need to characterize the specific nature of the cells directly responsible for these alterations and to attempt to correct deficiencies by dietary manipulation or transfer techniques.", "PMID": 448176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8483", "title": "Studies on age-related diseases in cultured skin fibroblasts.", "content": "In order to trace the origins of age-dependent diseases to the cellular level, we studied cultured human fibroblasts from subjects with 3 discrete inherited disorders and normal controls of various ages. Skin fibroblasts from subjects with progeria and Werner syndrome had a moderate to severe reduction in growth capacity, whereas cells from subjects with diabetes mellitus had a more subtle growth impairment. There was a decreased response of progeric fibroblasts to insulin-like hormones, and in normal cells the response decreased as a function of the passage level and donor age. Tissue factor, a procoagulant, was more abundant in progeric and Werner fibroblasts. An understanding of fibroblast aging in vitro may help us explain various concomitant phenomena of organismic aging such as diabetes mellitus, cell dropout, impaired hormone responsiveness, and increased atherothrombosis.", "contents": "Studies on age-related diseases in cultured skin fibroblasts. In order to trace the origins of age-dependent diseases to the cellular level, we studied cultured human fibroblasts from subjects with 3 discrete inherited disorders and normal controls of various ages. Skin fibroblasts from subjects with progeria and Werner syndrome had a moderate to severe reduction in growth capacity, whereas cells from subjects with diabetes mellitus had a more subtle growth impairment. There was a decreased response of progeric fibroblasts to insulin-like hormones, and in normal cells the response decreased as a function of the passage level and donor age. Tissue factor, a procoagulant, was more abundant in progeric and Werner fibroblasts. An understanding of fibroblast aging in vitro may help us explain various concomitant phenomena of organismic aging such as diabetes mellitus, cell dropout, impaired hormone responsiveness, and increased atherothrombosis.", "PMID": 448174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8484", "title": "Structural changes in aging human skin.", "content": "In both exposed and protected areas of progressively older people the underside of the epidermis becomes increasingly flattened out. This flattening is accompanied by a comparable rarefaction of the superficial blood vessels. In this article we review the architecture of the elastic fiber framework in the papillary dermis of skin protected from the sun; aging changes that occur are similar to, but less severe than, those in sun-exposed areas. Most cutaneous sensory end organs are little affected by aging; those in the external genitalia, however, and particularly those underneath the vaginal epithelium become smaller and some disappear.", "contents": "Structural changes in aging human skin. In both exposed and protected areas of progressively older people the underside of the epidermis becomes increasingly flattened out. This flattening is accompanied by a comparable rarefaction of the superficial blood vessels. In this article we review the architecture of the elastic fiber framework in the papillary dermis of skin protected from the sun; aging changes that occur are similar to, but less severe than, those in sun-exposed areas. Most cutaneous sensory end organs are little affected by aging; those in the external genitalia, however, and particularly those underneath the vaginal epithelium become smaller and some disappear.", "PMID": 448177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8485", "title": "The cell biology of aging.", "content": "Cultured normal human and animal cells are predestinued to undergo irreversible functional decrements that mimick age changes in the whole organism. When normal human embryonic fibroblasts are cultured in vitro, 50 +/- 10 population doublings occur. This maximum potential is diminished in cells derived from older donors and appears to be inversely proportional to their age. The 50 population doubling limit can account for all cells produced during a lifetime. The limitation on doubling potential of cultured normal cells is also expressed in vivo when serial transplants are made. There may be a direct correlation between the mean maximum life spans of several species and the population doubling potential of their cultured cells. A plethora of functional decrements occur in cultured normal cells as they approach their maximum division capability. Many of these decrements are similar to those occurring in intact animals as they age. We have concluded that these functional decrements expressed in vitro, rather than cessation of cell division, are the essential contributors to age changes in intact animals. Thus, the study of events leading to functional losses in cultured normal cells may provide useful insights into the biology of aging.", "contents": "The cell biology of aging. Cultured normal human and animal cells are predestinued to undergo irreversible functional decrements that mimick age changes in the whole organism. When normal human embryonic fibroblasts are cultured in vitro, 50 +/- 10 population doublings occur. This maximum potential is diminished in cells derived from older donors and appears to be inversely proportional to their age. The 50 population doubling limit can account for all cells produced during a lifetime. The limitation on doubling potential of cultured normal cells is also expressed in vivo when serial transplants are made. There may be a direct correlation between the mean maximum life spans of several species and the population doubling potential of their cultured cells. A plethora of functional decrements occur in cultured normal cells as they approach their maximum division capability. Many of these decrements are similar to those occurring in intact animals as they age. We have concluded that these functional decrements expressed in vitro, rather than cessation of cell division, are the essential contributors to age changes in intact animals. Thus, the study of events leading to functional losses in cultured normal cells may provide useful insights into the biology of aging.", "PMID": 448179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8486", "title": "Aging of collagen.", "content": "Current knowledge of the structure and the mechanism of formation of the covalent cross-links that fuse individual collagen molecules into a stable fiber is reviewed. Some of the mechanical properties of dermal connective tissue and the way in which these change with age can be correlated with the types of cross-link present in the tissue. Cross-links are routinely detected by treatment of a tissue sample with tritium-labeled borohydride and subsequent isolation and quantification of the cross-linked compound, which has been rendered radioactive by reaction with this reducing compound. After maturity, the number of detectable cross-links decreases even though the mechanical stability of the tissue increases. This anomaly is examined in the light of recent data suggesting that cross-links may be oxidized in vivo and thus become undetectable since they can no longer react with borohydride.", "contents": "Aging of collagen. Current knowledge of the structure and the mechanism of formation of the covalent cross-links that fuse individual collagen molecules into a stable fiber is reviewed. Some of the mechanical properties of dermal connective tissue and the way in which these change with age can be correlated with the types of cross-link present in the tissue. Cross-links are routinely detected by treatment of a tissue sample with tritium-labeled borohydride and subsequent isolation and quantification of the cross-linked compound, which has been rendered radioactive by reaction with this reducing compound. After maturity, the number of detectable cross-links decreases even though the mechanical stability of the tissue increases. This anomaly is examined in the light of recent data suggesting that cross-links may be oxidized in vivo and thus become undetectable since they can no longer react with borohydride.", "PMID": 448180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8487", "title": "Age-related changes in the mechanical properties of human skin.", "content": "The mechanical properties of skin have been studied both in vivo and in vitro by a variety of test methods. These properties are well matched to the function of the skin, and they depend on the geometry of the collagen and elastin networks of the dermis. The time dependence of these properties is thought to be related to the \"ground substance\" components of the dermis. Age-related changes in the mechanical properties are a function of the degradation of the elastin network and of some as yet undefined changes in the viscoelastic properties of the \"ground substance.\"", "contents": "Age-related changes in the mechanical properties of human skin. The mechanical properties of skin have been studied both in vivo and in vitro by a variety of test methods. These properties are well matched to the function of the skin, and they depend on the geometry of the collagen and elastin networks of the dermis. The time dependence of these properties is thought to be related to the \"ground substance\" components of the dermis. Age-related changes in the mechanical properties are a function of the degradation of the elastin network and of some as yet undefined changes in the viscoelastic properties of the \"ground substance.\"", "PMID": 448181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8488", "title": "Wound healing and aging.", "content": "There are \"natural delays\" in the healing of older individuals. Open wounds contract more slowly and incised wounds gain strength more slowly. Experimental studies indicate that cellular proliferation, wound metabolism, and collagen remodeling occur later in old animals. Clinical studies show, however, that operations can be performed safely in elderly patients and that the major increased risk to these patients is of nonwound medical complications that affect the wound.", "contents": "Wound healing and aging. There are \"natural delays\" in the healing of older individuals. Open wounds contract more slowly and incised wounds gain strength more slowly. Experimental studies indicate that cellular proliferation, wound metabolism, and collagen remodeling occur later in old animals. Clinical studies show, however, that operations can be performed safely in elderly patients and that the major increased risk to these patients is of nonwound medical complications that affect the wound.", "PMID": 448182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8489", "title": "Cellular aging in Werner's syndrome: a unique phenotype?", "content": "Werner's syndrome is commonly regarded as a model for the study of premature aging. There are, however, a variety of clinical and pathologic anatomical features that clearly distinguish it from aging in normal individuals. In this paper we report on in vitro cytogenetic and cell fusion studies that indicate cultured fibroblast-like cells derived from Werner patients differ from cells of normal donors. Despite these discordances with \"natural\" aging, however, Werner's syndrome, like several other \"segmental progeroid syndromes,\" may prove useful for the investigation of selected aspects of the aging process and of age-related diseases.", "contents": "Cellular aging in Werner's syndrome: a unique phenotype? Werner's syndrome is commonly regarded as a model for the study of premature aging. There are, however, a variety of clinical and pathologic anatomical features that clearly distinguish it from aging in normal individuals. In this paper we report on in vitro cytogenetic and cell fusion studies that indicate cultured fibroblast-like cells derived from Werner patients differ from cells of normal donors. Despite these discordances with \"natural\" aging, however, Werner's syndrome, like several other \"segmental progeroid syndromes,\" may prove useful for the investigation of selected aspects of the aging process and of age-related diseases.", "PMID": 448183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8490", "title": "Psoralen-DNA cross-linking photoadducts in dyskeratosis congenita: delay in excision and promotion of sister chromatid exchange.", "content": "Dyskeratosis congenita is a rare X-linked recessive disease, characterized by mucosal leukokeratosis, nail dystrophy, telangiectasia, reticulated hyperpigmentation, pancytopenia, and a heightened susceptibility to infection and malignancy. We exposed cultured fibroblasts and peripheral leukocytes from normal persons and from 2 unrelated young adult men with dyskeratosis congenita to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light. We than compared certain of their responses. Labeled DNA from fibroblasts exposed to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light showed fast-sedimenting DNA, a pattern we interpreted as evidence that cross-linking, psoralen-DNA photoadducts had been formed by the treatment. Fast-sedimenting DNA persisted for 24 hr in dyskeratosis congenita cells but disappeared from normal cells during a 24-hr repair period. Cultured peripheral blood leukocytes from persons with this syndrome similarly exposed to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light developed more sister chromatid exchanges than did cells from normal persons. These data suggest that a heightened susceptibility in DNA cross-links may be of fundamental importance in the etiology of dyskeratosis congenita.", "contents": "Psoralen-DNA cross-linking photoadducts in dyskeratosis congenita: delay in excision and promotion of sister chromatid exchange. Dyskeratosis congenita is a rare X-linked recessive disease, characterized by mucosal leukokeratosis, nail dystrophy, telangiectasia, reticulated hyperpigmentation, pancytopenia, and a heightened susceptibility to infection and malignancy. We exposed cultured fibroblasts and peripheral leukocytes from normal persons and from 2 unrelated young adult men with dyskeratosis congenita to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light. We than compared certain of their responses. Labeled DNA from fibroblasts exposed to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light showed fast-sedimenting DNA, a pattern we interpreted as evidence that cross-linking, psoralen-DNA photoadducts had been formed by the treatment. Fast-sedimenting DNA persisted for 24 hr in dyskeratosis congenita cells but disappeared from normal cells during a 24-hr repair period. Cultured peripheral blood leukocytes from persons with this syndrome similarly exposed to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light developed more sister chromatid exchanges than did cells from normal persons. These data suggest that a heightened susceptibility in DNA cross-links may be of fundamental importance in the etiology of dyskeratosis congenita.", "PMID": 448184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8491", "title": "Potentiation of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in hamsters with persistent encephalitis due to measles virus.", "content": "To clarify mechanisms underlying acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADE) in patients with infection due to measles or other viruses, a new animal model was devised. Adult hamsters that had clinically recovered from acute encephalitis induced by prior intracerebral injection of the HBS strain of measles virus were challenged with neuroantigen plus adjuvant. Such hamsters, which had a high likelihood of carrying persistent HBS measles virus in the central nervous system (CNS), exhibited a significantly higher incidence of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) following challenge as compared with simultaneously challenged but previously uninfected littermates. Occurrence of EAE in hamsters previously injected with heat-inactivated virus was not potentiated, a finding suggesting that persistence of the virus in the CNS renders that organ system more vulnerable to immunologic attack. This new model has promise for the probing of relationships between persistent viral infections of the CNS and host autoimmune responses directed against that target organ system.", "contents": "Potentiation of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in hamsters with persistent encephalitis due to measles virus. To clarify mechanisms underlying acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADE) in patients with infection due to measles or other viruses, a new animal model was devised. Adult hamsters that had clinically recovered from acute encephalitis induced by prior intracerebral injection of the HBS strain of measles virus were challenged with neuroantigen plus adjuvant. Such hamsters, which had a high likelihood of carrying persistent HBS measles virus in the central nervous system (CNS), exhibited a significantly higher incidence of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) following challenge as compared with simultaneously challenged but previously uninfected littermates. Occurrence of EAE in hamsters previously injected with heat-inactivated virus was not potentiated, a finding suggesting that persistence of the virus in the CNS renders that organ system more vulnerable to immunologic attack. This new model has promise for the probing of relationships between persistent viral infections of the CNS and host autoimmune responses directed against that target organ system.", "PMID": 448185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8492", "title": "Eosinophilia following treatment of patients with schistosomiasis mansoni and Bancroft's filariasis.", "content": "Eosinophilia is frequently observed after treatment of patients with infections due to parasitic helminths. For definition of the characteristics and causes of post-treatment eosinophilic responses, 47 patients with Bancroft's filariasis, who were treated with diethylcarbamazine, and eight patients with schistosomiasis mansoni, who were treated with niridazole, were studied. After therapy for eight days, both groups developed significant (P less than 0.05) increases in their levels of eosinophilia, which peaked in two to four weeks. Maximal levels averaged two and one-half to three time the levels before treatment. Before therapy the number of circulating eosinophils was unrelated to intensity of infection in both groups, but after treatment, when the same relationship was examined in the larger group (the patients with filariasis), the degree of post-treatment eosinophilia was significantly correlated with the patients' worm burdens before treatment (r = 0.727; P less than 0.001). Thus, treatment of helminthic infections can provide a unique opportunity for studying eosinophil responses of humans to graded doses of antigen and has shown that acute responses are determined quantitatively by the amount of antigen initially presented to the host.", "contents": "Eosinophilia following treatment of patients with schistosomiasis mansoni and Bancroft's filariasis. Eosinophilia is frequently observed after treatment of patients with infections due to parasitic helminths. For definition of the characteristics and causes of post-treatment eosinophilic responses, 47 patients with Bancroft's filariasis, who were treated with diethylcarbamazine, and eight patients with schistosomiasis mansoni, who were treated with niridazole, were studied. After therapy for eight days, both groups developed significant (P less than 0.05) increases in their levels of eosinophilia, which peaked in two to four weeks. Maximal levels averaged two and one-half to three time the levels before treatment. Before therapy the number of circulating eosinophils was unrelated to intensity of infection in both groups, but after treatment, when the same relationship was examined in the larger group (the patients with filariasis), the degree of post-treatment eosinophilia was significantly correlated with the patients' worm burdens before treatment (r = 0.727; P less than 0.001). Thus, treatment of helminthic infections can provide a unique opportunity for studying eosinophil responses of humans to graded doses of antigen and has shown that acute responses are determined quantitatively by the amount of antigen initially presented to the host.", "PMID": 448186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8493", "title": "Dinitrochlorobenzene responsivity: difference between patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis and patients with disseminated coccidioidomycosis.", "content": "Immunologic responses in 15 patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis and in 50 patients with disseminated coccidioidomycosis were measured by determination of complement-fixing (CF) antibody titers to coccidioidin in serum, coccidioidin (1:100) skin tests, and sensitization to dinitrochlorobenzene. Among the patients with desseminated coccidioidomycosis, the nine with CF antibody titers of less than or equal to 1:8 had normal responses to dinitrochlorobenzene, but the 41 with titers of greater than or equal to 1:16 had responses that were significantly lower than those of controls (P less than 0.001). In contrast, all patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis had CF antibody titers of greater than or equal to 1:16 and had responses to dinitrochlorobenzene that were greater (but not significantly greater) than those of controls. Among subjected with antibody titers of greater than or equal to 1:16, responsiveness to coccidioidin was found in 27% of those with severe pulmonary disease and in 39% of those with disseminated disease. Thus impaired responsivity to dinitrochlorobenzene in coccidioidomycosis is restricted to patients who have disseminated illness and high titers of CF antibody and is separable from lack of responsiveness to coccidioidin.", "contents": "Dinitrochlorobenzene responsivity: difference between patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis and patients with disseminated coccidioidomycosis. Immunologic responses in 15 patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis and in 50 patients with disseminated coccidioidomycosis were measured by determination of complement-fixing (CF) antibody titers to coccidioidin in serum, coccidioidin (1:100) skin tests, and sensitization to dinitrochlorobenzene. Among the patients with desseminated coccidioidomycosis, the nine with CF antibody titers of less than or equal to 1:8 had normal responses to dinitrochlorobenzene, but the 41 with titers of greater than or equal to 1:16 had responses that were significantly lower than those of controls (P less than 0.001). In contrast, all patients with severe pulmonary coccidioidomycosis had CF antibody titers of greater than or equal to 1:16 and had responses to dinitrochlorobenzene that were greater (but not significantly greater) than those of controls. Among subjected with antibody titers of greater than or equal to 1:16, responsiveness to coccidioidin was found in 27% of those with severe pulmonary disease and in 39% of those with disseminated disease. Thus impaired responsivity to dinitrochlorobenzene in coccidioidomycosis is restricted to patients who have disseminated illness and high titers of CF antibody and is separable from lack of responsiveness to coccidioidin.", "PMID": 448187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8494", "title": "Chlamydia trachomatis in women: antibody in cervical secretions as a possible indicator of genital infection.", "content": "One hundred eighty-five women college students were examined for genital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. This organism was isolated from nine (5%) of the 185 women. Antibody was demonstrated in the genital secretions of 26 (14%) and in the serum of 70 (38%) of the women. None of the sexually inexperienced women was infected. Among those sexually experienced, the prevalence of isolation of C. trachomatis and of detection of local antibodies in cervical secretions and serum antibodies to C. trachomatis increased in relation to the number of life-time sexual partners. Local antibody appeared to be a more reliable indicator of infection with C. trachomatis than serum antibody in this college population.", "contents": "Chlamydia trachomatis in women: antibody in cervical secretions as a possible indicator of genital infection. One hundred eighty-five women college students were examined for genital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. This organism was isolated from nine (5%) of the 185 women. Antibody was demonstrated in the genital secretions of 26 (14%) and in the serum of 70 (38%) of the women. None of the sexually inexperienced women was infected. Among those sexually experienced, the prevalence of isolation of C. trachomatis and of detection of local antibodies in cervical secretions and serum antibodies to C. trachomatis increased in relation to the number of life-time sexual partners. Local antibody appeared to be a more reliable indicator of infection with C. trachomatis than serum antibody in this college population.", "PMID": 448189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8495", "title": "Early-appearing antiviral activity in human tears during a case of picornavirus epidemic conjunctivitis.", "content": "The clinical, virological, and immunological courses of a laboratory-acquired hemorrhagic conjunctivitis were followed. Coxsackievirus type A24 (CA24) was isolated from tears for only two days but from sputum and fecal samples for 20 days. Maximal levels of virus were detected in the right eye (10(5.1) 50% tissue culture infective doses/ml) 5-7 hr before conjunctivitis in the right eye, and in feces (10(2.8) 50% tissue culture infective doses/g) and sputum (10(2.5) 50% tissue culture infective doses/ml) five and eight days after onset of conjunctivitis, respectively. Specific neutralizing activity against CA24 was detected in tear samples 48-56 hr after exposure, and elimination of virus was associated with the rise in the neutralizing activity in tears. This activity was detected earlier than previously reported antibody responses of the eye. The absence of interferon and the association of this early neutralizing activity in tears with early elimination of virus from the eye suggest that neutralizing activity may play a major role in the clinical and pathological manifestations of this infection.", "contents": "Early-appearing antiviral activity in human tears during a case of picornavirus epidemic conjunctivitis. The clinical, virological, and immunological courses of a laboratory-acquired hemorrhagic conjunctivitis were followed. Coxsackievirus type A24 (CA24) was isolated from tears for only two days but from sputum and fecal samples for 20 days. Maximal levels of virus were detected in the right eye (10(5.1) 50% tissue culture infective doses/ml) 5-7 hr before conjunctivitis in the right eye, and in feces (10(2.8) 50% tissue culture infective doses/g) and sputum (10(2.5) 50% tissue culture infective doses/ml) five and eight days after onset of conjunctivitis, respectively. Specific neutralizing activity against CA24 was detected in tear samples 48-56 hr after exposure, and elimination of virus was associated with the rise in the neutralizing activity in tears. This activity was detected earlier than previously reported antibody responses of the eye. The absence of interferon and the association of this early neutralizing activity in tears with early elimination of virus from the eye suggest that neutralizing activity may play a major role in the clinical and pathological manifestations of this infection.", "PMID": 448191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8496", "title": "Factors in the pathogenesis of acute schistosomiasis mansoni.", "content": "Acute schistosomiasis mansoni was studied in 26 Puerto Rican patients whose clinical presentations differed widely in severity. Severity of illness was found to be positively correlated (r = 0.79) with the intensity of infection as measured by the concentration of eggs of Schistosoma mansoni in stool specimens. However, some patients had severe illness but relatively light infections. The disappearnace of symptoms and return toward normal of laboratory measures of disease activity were not associated with any diminution in the fecal egg count. Elevations of IgG, IgM, IgE, and of titers of anibody in serum indicated that the illness is associated with intense immune activity. The magnitude of the IgG and IgE responses was related to intensity of infection. The fact that incubation periods were shorter than the time needed for schistosomes to reach adulthood and lay eggs suggests that the syndrome can be initiated by parasite stages present before oviposition. No marked changes in complement (C3, C3p, C4, and CH50) and no signs of renal disease were noted in any of these patients.", "contents": "Factors in the pathogenesis of acute schistosomiasis mansoni. Acute schistosomiasis mansoni was studied in 26 Puerto Rican patients whose clinical presentations differed widely in severity. Severity of illness was found to be positively correlated (r = 0.79) with the intensity of infection as measured by the concentration of eggs of Schistosoma mansoni in stool specimens. However, some patients had severe illness but relatively light infections. The disappearnace of symptoms and return toward normal of laboratory measures of disease activity were not associated with any diminution in the fecal egg count. Elevations of IgG, IgM, IgE, and of titers of anibody in serum indicated that the illness is associated with intense immune activity. The magnitude of the IgG and IgE responses was related to intensity of infection. The fact that incubation periods were shorter than the time needed for schistosomes to reach adulthood and lay eggs suggests that the syndrome can be initiated by parasite stages present before oviposition. No marked changes in complement (C3, C3p, C4, and CH50) and no signs of renal disease were noted in any of these patients.", "PMID": 448192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8497", "title": "Association of respiratory tract colonization with adherence of gram-negative bacilli to epithelial cells.", "content": "Factors that promote oropharyngeal colonization of seriously ill patients with gram-negative bacilli are as yet poorly understood. In this investigation, 34 subjects who required intensive care were studied; 18 (53%) were colonized with gram-negative bacilli. Oropharyngeal epithelial cells of all colonized patients contained adherent bacilli. Fewer alpha-hemolytic streptococci but greater numbers of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae (P less than or equal to 0.01) adhered in vitro to buccal epithelial cells from colonized patients than to cells from noncolonized patients. Adherence of bacilli to buccal cells was inhibited in vitro by concanavalin A but not by bovine serum albumin or phytohemagglutinin. Brief exposure of buccal cells to trypsin increased adherence of bacilli. Prior adherence of one species of bacilli inhibited subsequent adherence of a second species. These findings suggested that epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract contain binding sites for gram-negative bacilli. Factors associated with serious illness appear to increase the availability of these binding sites, thus facilitating colonization of the upper respiratory tract with gram-negative bacilli.", "contents": "Association of respiratory tract colonization with adherence of gram-negative bacilli to epithelial cells. Factors that promote oropharyngeal colonization of seriously ill patients with gram-negative bacilli are as yet poorly understood. In this investigation, 34 subjects who required intensive care were studied; 18 (53%) were colonized with gram-negative bacilli. Oropharyngeal epithelial cells of all colonized patients contained adherent bacilli. Fewer alpha-hemolytic streptococci but greater numbers of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae (P less than or equal to 0.01) adhered in vitro to buccal epithelial cells from colonized patients than to cells from noncolonized patients. Adherence of bacilli to buccal cells was inhibited in vitro by concanavalin A but not by bovine serum albumin or phytohemagglutinin. Brief exposure of buccal cells to trypsin increased adherence of bacilli. Prior adherence of one species of bacilli inhibited subsequent adherence of a second species. These findings suggested that epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract contain binding sites for gram-negative bacilli. Factors associated with serious illness appear to increase the availability of these binding sites, thus facilitating colonization of the upper respiratory tract with gram-negative bacilli.", "PMID": 448193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8498", "title": "Non-A, non-B hepatitis among participants in a plasmapheresis stimulation program.", "content": "Non-A, non-B hepatitis was transmitted to seven of nine participants in a red blood cell-stimulation program following transfusion of blood from one asymptomatic donor. Five of the seven patients had clinical as well as biochemical evidence of infection, and three of these five were icteric. Incubation periods for the clinical cases ranged from 28 to 50 days, and duration of illness was from two to eight weeks. None of the seven patients showed serologic evidence of acute infection or reinfection with hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, cytomegalovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus. Viremia persisted in the donor for at least 34 days, since non-A, non-B hepatitis was transmitted to program participants during that period.", "contents": "Non-A, non-B hepatitis among participants in a plasmapheresis stimulation program. Non-A, non-B hepatitis was transmitted to seven of nine participants in a red blood cell-stimulation program following transfusion of blood from one asymptomatic donor. Five of the seven patients had clinical as well as biochemical evidence of infection, and three of these five were icteric. Incubation periods for the clinical cases ranged from 28 to 50 days, and duration of illness was from two to eight weeks. None of the seven patients showed serologic evidence of acute infection or reinfection with hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, cytomegalovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus. Viremia persisted in the donor for at least 34 days, since non-A, non-B hepatitis was transmitted to program participants during that period.", "PMID": 448190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8499", "title": "Long-term epidemiology of infections with Mycoplasma pneumoniae.", "content": "Pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae was monitored in a large prepaid medical-care group in Seattle, Washington, between 1963 and 1975. The disease was diagnosed by isolation of M. pneumoniae and/or significant rises in titer of complement-fixing (antilipid) antibody in paired sera. Infection was endemic without significant seasonal fluctuations. Two epidemics occurred: the first peaked in January 1967, the second late in the summer of 1974. Total rates of pneumonia infection in children increased during M. pneumoniae epidemics, but epidemics of infection with respiratory syncytial virus had a greater effect. Age-specific attack rates for M. pneumoniae pneumonia among children aged five to nine years (about six per 1,000) were about twice the rates for younger children and four times those for adults. Serologic study of healthy schoolchildren showed annual rates of infection that paralleled but greatly exceeded rates of recognized M. pneumoniae pneumonia. Infection rates varied from 2% in endemic years to 35% in epidemic periods. A higher proportion of infections among children aged five to nine years than among adolescents aged 15-19 years resulted in pneumonia.", "contents": "Long-term epidemiology of infections with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae was monitored in a large prepaid medical-care group in Seattle, Washington, between 1963 and 1975. The disease was diagnosed by isolation of M. pneumoniae and/or significant rises in titer of complement-fixing (antilipid) antibody in paired sera. Infection was endemic without significant seasonal fluctuations. Two epidemics occurred: the first peaked in January 1967, the second late in the summer of 1974. Total rates of pneumonia infection in children increased during M. pneumoniae epidemics, but epidemics of infection with respiratory syncytial virus had a greater effect. Age-specific attack rates for M. pneumoniae pneumonia among children aged five to nine years (about six per 1,000) were about twice the rates for younger children and four times those for adults. Serologic study of healthy schoolchildren showed annual rates of infection that paralleled but greatly exceeded rates of recognized M. pneumoniae pneumonia. Infection rates varied from 2% in endemic years to 35% in epidemic periods. A higher proportion of infections among children aged five to nine years than among adolescents aged 15-19 years resulted in pneumonia.", "PMID": 448195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8500", "title": "Virulent to avirulent conversion of Legionnaires' disease bacterium (Legionella pneumophila)--its effect on isolation techniques.", "content": "Suspensions of the Legionnaries' disease bacterium (Legionella pneumophila; LDB) were prepared from the yolk sacs of infected egg embryos, the spleens of infected guinea pigs, and cultures of the organism propagated on enriched Mueller-Hinton agar. Each suspension was titrated to determine the number of bacterial colonies (cfu), yolk sac 50% lethal doses (YSLD50), guinea pig 50% infectious doses (GPID50), and guinea pig 50% lethal doses (GPLD50) produced by 1 ml of inoculum. The numbers of cfu/YSLD50, GPID50, and GPLD50 were then calculated for each suspension. The suspension from yolk sacs had 1 cfu/YSLD50 and 10 cfu/GPID50. The suspension from spleens of guinea pigs also had 1 cfu/YSLD50. Organisms propagated on Mueller-Hinton agar, however, had greater than 10(7) cfu/YSLD50 and 10(5) cfu/GPID50. Thus, the LDB lost virulence when it was cultivated on agar. Guinea pigs vaccinated either subcutaneously or intraperitoneally with LDB grown on Mueller-Hinton agar resisted challenge with virulent LDB.", "contents": "Virulent to avirulent conversion of Legionnaires' disease bacterium (Legionella pneumophila)--its effect on isolation techniques. Suspensions of the Legionnaries' disease bacterium (Legionella pneumophila; LDB) were prepared from the yolk sacs of infected egg embryos, the spleens of infected guinea pigs, and cultures of the organism propagated on enriched Mueller-Hinton agar. Each suspension was titrated to determine the number of bacterial colonies (cfu), yolk sac 50% lethal doses (YSLD50), guinea pig 50% infectious doses (GPID50), and guinea pig 50% lethal doses (GPLD50) produced by 1 ml of inoculum. The numbers of cfu/YSLD50, GPID50, and GPLD50 were then calculated for each suspension. The suspension from yolk sacs had 1 cfu/YSLD50 and 10 cfu/GPID50. The suspension from spleens of guinea pigs also had 1 cfu/YSLD50. Organisms propagated on Mueller-Hinton agar, however, had greater than 10(7) cfu/YSLD50 and 10(5) cfu/GPID50. Thus, the LDB lost virulence when it was cultivated on agar. Guinea pigs vaccinated either subcutaneously or intraperitoneally with LDB grown on Mueller-Hinton agar resisted challenge with virulent LDB.", "PMID": 448196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8501", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of cephalothin: accumulation of its deacetylated metabolite in uremic patients.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of cephalothin and its deacetyl metabolite were studied with use of a chemical assay involving high-pressure liquid chromatography. In seven patients with normal renal function, the half-life of cephalothin was about 28 min and concentrations of deacetylcephalothin in serum were low. In five patients with uremia, the half-life of cephalothin averaged 221 min and there was a continuous accumulation of the deacetyl metabolite in serum during treatment. Recovery of the drug in urine was quantitative when renal function was normal, whereas the amount of drug excreted was very low in cases of uremia. The results offer some explanation of the complex pharmacokinetics of cephalothin seen with microbiological tests and illustrate the usefulness of specific chemical assays, especially in the monitoring of serum concentrations of mixtures of antibiotic compounds that differ in antibacterial activity.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of cephalothin: accumulation of its deacetylated metabolite in uremic patients. The pharmacokinetics of cephalothin and its deacetyl metabolite were studied with use of a chemical assay involving high-pressure liquid chromatography. In seven patients with normal renal function, the half-life of cephalothin was about 28 min and concentrations of deacetylcephalothin in serum were low. In five patients with uremia, the half-life of cephalothin averaged 221 min and there was a continuous accumulation of the deacetyl metabolite in serum during treatment. Recovery of the drug in urine was quantitative when renal function was normal, whereas the amount of drug excreted was very low in cases of uremia. The results offer some explanation of the complex pharmacokinetics of cephalothin seen with microbiological tests and illustrate the usefulness of specific chemical assays, especially in the monitoring of serum concentrations of mixtures of antibiotic compounds that differ in antibacterial activity.", "PMID": 448197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8502", "title": "Activity of oral amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline against infection with chlamydia trachomatis in mice.", "content": "The effects in mice of oral treatment with amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline against an otherwise lethal intranasal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (mouse pneumonitis) were studied. When treatment was started 30 min after infection and continued once daily thereafter for a total of seven treatments, the mean protective doses of amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline were 9.5, greater than 50, and 31.3 mg/kg, respectively. If 14 oral treatments were given, these values were 1.6 mg/kg for amoxicillin, 12.7 mg/kg for ampicillin, and 12.3 mg/kg for oxytetracycline.", "contents": "Activity of oral amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline against infection with chlamydia trachomatis in mice. The effects in mice of oral treatment with amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline against an otherwise lethal intranasal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (mouse pneumonitis) were studied. When treatment was started 30 min after infection and continued once daily thereafter for a total of seven treatments, the mean protective doses of amoxicillin, ampicillin, and oxytetracycline were 9.5, greater than 50, and 31.3 mg/kg, respectively. If 14 oral treatments were given, these values were 1.6 mg/kg for amoxicillin, 12.7 mg/kg for ampicillin, and 12.3 mg/kg for oxytetracycline.", "PMID": 448198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8503", "title": "[Selective medical circumflex femoral arteriography in idiopathic ischemic necrosis of the femoral head in adults (author's transl)].", "content": "It is generally accepted that the medial circumflex femoral artery nourishes about two-thirds to four-fifths of the femoral head. In order to study the arteries in the idiopathic ischemic necrosis of the femoral head in adults, selective medial circumflex femoral arteriography was performed on 24 affected hips and 14 normal hips. This method enabled the better visualization of the medial circumflex femoral arterial system than the conventional femoral or internal iliac arteriography. The affected hips showed similar vascular patterns compared to normal hips. Anastomoses between the ascending branch or the medial circumflex femoral artery and the gluteal arteries, however, were rarely found in the affected hips. In the affected hips, various pathologic changes were demonstrated angiographically mainly in the portion of the ascending branch and the retinacular arteries. The existence of some degree of vascular insufficiency of the femoral head was assumed. However, complete occlusion of the medial circumflex femoral artery and its main branches that might cause head necrosis was seldom observed.", "contents": "[Selective medical circumflex femoral arteriography in idiopathic ischemic necrosis of the femoral head in adults (author's transl)]. It is generally accepted that the medial circumflex femoral artery nourishes about two-thirds to four-fifths of the femoral head. In order to study the arteries in the idiopathic ischemic necrosis of the femoral head in adults, selective medial circumflex femoral arteriography was performed on 24 affected hips and 14 normal hips. This method enabled the better visualization of the medial circumflex femoral arterial system than the conventional femoral or internal iliac arteriography. The affected hips showed similar vascular patterns compared to normal hips. Anastomoses between the ascending branch or the medial circumflex femoral artery and the gluteal arteries, however, were rarely found in the affected hips. In the affected hips, various pathologic changes were demonstrated angiographically mainly in the portion of the ascending branch and the retinacular arteries. The existence of some degree of vascular insufficiency of the femoral head was assumed. However, complete occlusion of the medial circumflex femoral artery and its main branches that might cause head necrosis was seldom observed.", "PMID": 448215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8504", "title": "[The range of joint motions of the extremities in healthy Japanese people--the difference according to the age (author's transl)].", "content": "The passive range of motion was measured in the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hip, knee and ankle joints in 624 healthy Japanese persons ranging from the neonatal to 80 years of age, by the method formally decided by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association and the Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Medicine in 1974, followed by a statistical analysis. 1. The joint motions, the range of motion value of which being remarkably different by age, were found among the movements in external rotation and horizontal abduction of the shoulder, extension, abduction, adduction, external rotation, internal rotation of the hip and dorsiflexion of the ankle. 2. Elbow flexion, forearm pronation and supination, wrist dorsiflexion and knee flexion showed little change by age. 3. Extension, external rotation and horizontal abduction of the shoulder, dorsiflexion of the wrist, flexion of the hip, flexion of the knee and dorsiflexion and plantar flexion of the ankle gave values exceeding the normal range indicated by the associations. 4. The fluctuation in the range of joint motion was especially wide in the infant and the aged person.", "contents": "[The range of joint motions of the extremities in healthy Japanese people--the difference according to the age (author's transl)]. The passive range of motion was measured in the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hip, knee and ankle joints in 624 healthy Japanese persons ranging from the neonatal to 80 years of age, by the method formally decided by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association and the Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Medicine in 1974, followed by a statistical analysis. 1. The joint motions, the range of motion value of which being remarkably different by age, were found among the movements in external rotation and horizontal abduction of the shoulder, extension, abduction, adduction, external rotation, internal rotation of the hip and dorsiflexion of the ankle. 2. Elbow flexion, forearm pronation and supination, wrist dorsiflexion and knee flexion showed little change by age. 3. Extension, external rotation and horizontal abduction of the shoulder, dorsiflexion of the wrist, flexion of the hip, flexion of the knee and dorsiflexion and plantar flexion of the ankle gave values exceeding the normal range indicated by the associations. 4. The fluctuation in the range of joint motion was especially wide in the infant and the aged person.", "PMID": 448214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8505", "title": "Retinoid metabolism in spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells): enzymatic conversion of retinol to anhydroretinol.", "content": "Spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells) displayed an increased adhesion when cultured in the presence of 10(-6) M all-trans retinol and acquired morphological characteristics of the normal phenotype. Thus it was of interest to investigate the metabolism of [15-(14)C]retinol in this system. Within 24 hours of culture, approximately 4.25% of the [(14)C]retinol was taken up by the cells. The hydrocarbon [(14)C]anhydroretinol was a major metabolic product and was identified by gas-liquid chromatography and by its typical ultraviolet absorption spectrum with maxima at 386, 364, and 346 nm. At 24 and 40 hours anhydroretinol represented 27% and 55%, respectively, of the total nonpolar metabolites or approximately 16% and 30% of the total radioactive products. Formalin-fixed fibroblasts or cultured intestinal mucosal cells did not convert retinol into anhydroretinol. A more polar product with a UV absorption maximum at 310 nm was also found. The time course of the synthesis of this product by 3T12 cells suggested a precursor-product relationship with anhydroretinol. A microsomal preparation from 3T12 cells was also active in synthesizing [(14)C]anhydroretinol and [(14)C]metabolite-310 from [(14)C]retinol. Moreover incubation of metabolite-310 with the 3T12 microsomes yielded anhydroretinol (40% conversion in 30 minutes), suggesting that metabolite-310 is an intermediate in the synthesis of anhydroretinol by these cells. Anhydroretinol appears to be an end product of the metabolism of retinol in 3T12-3 cells, as suggested by the finding that over 90% of [(14)C]anhydroretinol incubated for 30 hours with 3T12-3 cells was recovered unaltered, without the formation of detectable retroretinol, retinol, or retinoic acid.-Bhat, P. V., L. M. De Luca, S. Adamo, I. Akalovsky, C. S. Silverman-Jones, and G. L. Peck. Retinoid metabolism in spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells): enzymatic conversion of retinol to anhydroretinol.", "contents": "Retinoid metabolism in spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells): enzymatic conversion of retinol to anhydroretinol. Spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells) displayed an increased adhesion when cultured in the presence of 10(-6) M all-trans retinol and acquired morphological characteristics of the normal phenotype. Thus it was of interest to investigate the metabolism of [15-(14)C]retinol in this system. Within 24 hours of culture, approximately 4.25% of the [(14)C]retinol was taken up by the cells. The hydrocarbon [(14)C]anhydroretinol was a major metabolic product and was identified by gas-liquid chromatography and by its typical ultraviolet absorption spectrum with maxima at 386, 364, and 346 nm. At 24 and 40 hours anhydroretinol represented 27% and 55%, respectively, of the total nonpolar metabolites or approximately 16% and 30% of the total radioactive products. Formalin-fixed fibroblasts or cultured intestinal mucosal cells did not convert retinol into anhydroretinol. A more polar product with a UV absorption maximum at 310 nm was also found. The time course of the synthesis of this product by 3T12 cells suggested a precursor-product relationship with anhydroretinol. A microsomal preparation from 3T12 cells was also active in synthesizing [(14)C]anhydroretinol and [(14)C]metabolite-310 from [(14)C]retinol. Moreover incubation of metabolite-310 with the 3T12 microsomes yielded anhydroretinol (40% conversion in 30 minutes), suggesting that metabolite-310 is an intermediate in the synthesis of anhydroretinol by these cells. Anhydroretinol appears to be an end product of the metabolism of retinol in 3T12-3 cells, as suggested by the finding that over 90% of [(14)C]anhydroretinol incubated for 30 hours with 3T12-3 cells was recovered unaltered, without the formation of detectable retroretinol, retinol, or retinoic acid.-Bhat, P. V., L. M. De Luca, S. Adamo, I. Akalovsky, C. S. Silverman-Jones, and G. L. Peck. Retinoid metabolism in spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts (Balb/c 3T12-3 cells): enzymatic conversion of retinol to anhydroretinol.", "PMID": 448240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8506", "title": "Separation of and cholesterol synthesis by human lymphocytes and monocytes.", "content": "We have devised techniques for the isolation of human monocytes which do not require the adherence of the cells to a surface. In 15 consecutive experiments using density-gradient and counterflow centrifugations, a population of mononuclear cells that was 75 +/- 11% monocytes was obtained within 2 hours of venipuncture. These cells had never been pelleted and represented approximately three-fourths of the monocytes that had been present in the whole blood. In another 22 consecutive experiments using sedimentation in gelatin followed by counterflow and density-gradient centrifugations, a population of lymphocytes that was 99.5 +/- 0.5% pure and a population of monocytes that was 94 +/- 3% pure were obtained within 3 hours of venipuncture. When these freshly isolated cells were incubated in the lipoprotein-deficient fraction of serum (d > 1.21 g/ml) or in solvent-extracted serum, the monocytes incorporated 10-20 times more [2-(14)C]acetate into sterols than did the lymphocytes. Monocytes were seen to constitute between 6 and 46% of the mononuclear cells isolated from normal individuals by the usual density-gradient centrifugation of whole blood on Ficoll-Hypaque. We conclude that future studies of cholesterol metabolism utilizing human mononuclear cells must take into account this large variation in the percentage of monocytes and their disproportionately greater activity during short-term incubations in media that induce sterol synthesis.-Fogelman, A. M., J. Seager, M. Hokom, and P. A. Edwards. Separation of and cholesterol synthesis by human lymphocytes and monocytes.", "contents": "Separation of and cholesterol synthesis by human lymphocytes and monocytes. We have devised techniques for the isolation of human monocytes which do not require the adherence of the cells to a surface. In 15 consecutive experiments using density-gradient and counterflow centrifugations, a population of mononuclear cells that was 75 +/- 11% monocytes was obtained within 2 hours of venipuncture. These cells had never been pelleted and represented approximately three-fourths of the monocytes that had been present in the whole blood. In another 22 consecutive experiments using sedimentation in gelatin followed by counterflow and density-gradient centrifugations, a population of lymphocytes that was 99.5 +/- 0.5% pure and a population of monocytes that was 94 +/- 3% pure were obtained within 3 hours of venipuncture. When these freshly isolated cells were incubated in the lipoprotein-deficient fraction of serum (d > 1.21 g/ml) or in solvent-extracted serum, the monocytes incorporated 10-20 times more [2-(14)C]acetate into sterols than did the lymphocytes. Monocytes were seen to constitute between 6 and 46% of the mononuclear cells isolated from normal individuals by the usual density-gradient centrifugation of whole blood on Ficoll-Hypaque. We conclude that future studies of cholesterol metabolism utilizing human mononuclear cells must take into account this large variation in the percentage of monocytes and their disproportionately greater activity during short-term incubations in media that induce sterol synthesis.-Fogelman, A. M., J. Seager, M. Hokom, and P. A. Edwards. Separation of and cholesterol synthesis by human lymphocytes and monocytes.", "PMID": 448241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8507", "title": "NCTR computer systems designed for toxicologic experimentation. IV. Experiment information system.", "content": "The Experiment Information System (EIS) is a computerized data collection, maintenance, and reporting system for specified information values collected during the lifespan of animals assigned to toxicologic investigations at NCTR. The system records and/or controls experimental variables, which might ultimately affect the results, through the operation and integration of the Diet Preparation Subsystem (DPS), the Environmental Monitoring Subsystem (EMS), the Microbiology Subsystem (MBS), and the Chemistry Data Subsystem (CDS). The fifth component of the EIS, the Experimental Data Collection Subsystem (EDCS), is responsible for handling all data generated by, or attributed to, the animals from assignment until death or removal. Through integration of these five subsystems, the history of an animal while on study is recorded and stored for later recall. In addition, \"routine\" and \"special\" reports are made available through the system software which enables stringent control of the experiment by the Principal Investigator, Animal Husbandry, and NCTR Management.", "contents": "NCTR computer systems designed for toxicologic experimentation. IV. Experiment information system. The Experiment Information System (EIS) is a computerized data collection, maintenance, and reporting system for specified information values collected during the lifespan of animals assigned to toxicologic investigations at NCTR. The system records and/or controls experimental variables, which might ultimately affect the results, through the operation and integration of the Diet Preparation Subsystem (DPS), the Environmental Monitoring Subsystem (EMS), the Microbiology Subsystem (MBS), and the Chemistry Data Subsystem (CDS). The fifth component of the EIS, the Experimental Data Collection Subsystem (EDCS), is responsible for handling all data generated by, or attributed to, the animals from assignment until death or removal. Through integration of these five subsystems, the history of an animal while on study is recorded and stored for later recall. In addition, \"routine\" and \"special\" reports are made available through the system software which enables stringent control of the experiment by the Principal Investigator, Animal Husbandry, and NCTR Management.", "PMID": 448248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8508", "title": "Studies of in vitro asbestos-cell interaction.", "content": "Using amosite and chrysotile, asbestos cytotoxicity is shown to be a function of time and is abolished by filtration of the culture medium containing asbestos fibers through a 0.2-micrometer filter. There is evidence that cytotoxicity is related to the phagocytic property of cells since non-phagocytic fibroblasts survive under conditions lethal to P388D1 cells. Time lapse studies show that apparently normal mitosis occurs in the presence of intracellular asbestos, but the presence of fibers in sufficient quantity results in cytotoxicity. Effects on human (WI-38) fibroblasts are also reported.", "contents": "Studies of in vitro asbestos-cell interaction. Using amosite and chrysotile, asbestos cytotoxicity is shown to be a function of time and is abolished by filtration of the culture medium containing asbestos fibers through a 0.2-micrometer filter. There is evidence that cytotoxicity is related to the phagocytic property of cells since non-phagocytic fibroblasts survive under conditions lethal to P388D1 cells. Time lapse studies show that apparently normal mitosis occurs in the presence of intracellular asbestos, but the presence of fibers in sufficient quantity results in cytotoxicity. Effects on human (WI-38) fibroblasts are also reported.", "PMID": 448250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8509", "title": "Inhibition of aflatoxin B1-induced cytotoxicity and binding to DNA in cultured rat liver cells by naturally occurring flavones.", "content": "For naturally occurring flavones, quercetin, fisetin, nobiletin, and tangeritin, protect cultured rat liver epithelial-like cells against aflatoxin B1-induced cytotoxicity and inhibit the binding of [3H] aflatoxin B1 to cellular DNA. The methoxy-substituted flavones, nobiletin and tangeritin, show greater protection against cytotoxicity than do the hydroxy-substituted compounds, quercetin and fisetin.", "contents": "Inhibition of aflatoxin B1-induced cytotoxicity and binding to DNA in cultured rat liver cells by naturally occurring flavones. For naturally occurring flavones, quercetin, fisetin, nobiletin, and tangeritin, protect cultured rat liver epithelial-like cells against aflatoxin B1-induced cytotoxicity and inhibit the binding of [3H] aflatoxin B1 to cellular DNA. The methoxy-substituted flavones, nobiletin and tangeritin, show greater protection against cytotoxicity than do the hydroxy-substituted compounds, quercetin and fisetin.", "PMID": 448249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8510", "title": "Correlation of calculated electronic parameters of fifteen aniline derivatives with their mutagenic potencies.", "content": "Electronic parameters for a series of amino-, chloro-, and nitro-substituted anilines relative to their potential for activation to hydroxylamines, aryl-nitrenium ions, and ring epoxides, and to their potential deactivation to phenols were calculated using semi-empirical molecular orbital methods. The relative mutagenic activities of aminoanilines could be explained by parameters reflecting potential for N-hydroxylation and stability of the arylnitrenium ions. Both chloro and nitro groups deactivate the amine group to N-hydroxylation and the ring to epoxidation, and no active products from cytochrome P-450 would be predicted. This result is consistent with lack of mutagenic activity observed for chloro derivatives, but does not account for activity of the nitro derivatives, which is presumed to be due to transformation of the nitro group itself to an active mutagenic species by other enzyme systems.", "contents": "Correlation of calculated electronic parameters of fifteen aniline derivatives with their mutagenic potencies. Electronic parameters for a series of amino-, chloro-, and nitro-substituted anilines relative to their potential for activation to hydroxylamines, aryl-nitrenium ions, and ring epoxides, and to their potential deactivation to phenols were calculated using semi-empirical molecular orbital methods. The relative mutagenic activities of aminoanilines could be explained by parameters reflecting potential for N-hydroxylation and stability of the arylnitrenium ions. Both chloro and nitro groups deactivate the amine group to N-hydroxylation and the ring to epoxidation, and no active products from cytochrome P-450 would be predicted. This result is consistent with lack of mutagenic activity observed for chloro derivatives, but does not account for activity of the nitro derivatives, which is presumed to be due to transformation of the nitro group itself to an active mutagenic species by other enzyme systems.", "PMID": 448254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8511", "title": "Toxicity of aerosols of sodium reaction products.", "content": "Sodium is used as the heat transfer medium in several new energy technologies such as liquid-metal fast-breeder reactors and solar-thermal collection systems. Because sodium burns in air and reacts violently with water, the potential exists for an airborne release of sodium combustion products and subsequent human exposure. To help evaluate the potential short-term hazard from an accidental sodium fire, male juvenile or adult Wistar rats were exposed to sodium aerosols for 2 hours to determine the dose at which 50 percent of the animals were affected (ED50) for each age group. The estimated ED50 of 510 microgram/l for adults was not significantly different from the estimated ED50 of 489 microgram/l for juveniles. The incidence of acute laryngitis, attributed to exposure, was three times higher for juvenile rats than for adults, and the degree of severity of this lesion was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher for juveniles.", "contents": "Toxicity of aerosols of sodium reaction products. Sodium is used as the heat transfer medium in several new energy technologies such as liquid-metal fast-breeder reactors and solar-thermal collection systems. Because sodium burns in air and reacts violently with water, the potential exists for an airborne release of sodium combustion products and subsequent human exposure. To help evaluate the potential short-term hazard from an accidental sodium fire, male juvenile or adult Wistar rats were exposed to sodium aerosols for 2 hours to determine the dose at which 50 percent of the animals were affected (ED50) for each age group. The estimated ED50 of 510 microgram/l for adults was not significantly different from the estimated ED50 of 489 microgram/l for juveniles. The incidence of acute laryngitis, attributed to exposure, was three times higher for juvenile rats than for adults, and the degree of severity of this lesion was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher for juveniles.", "PMID": 448256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8512", "title": "Matching-to-sample and oddity-from-sample in goldfish.", "content": "Acquisition of three-alternative simultaneous matching-to-sample and oddity-from-sample was investigated. Five goldfish were trained on matching and five on oddity for a minimum of 70 days. Subsequently, six of the fish were trained for 70 days on the other task. Acquisition was similar for oddity and matching. Correct responding started at about chance level and slowly increased to about 75%, with some animals performing at levels of over 85%. Acquisition of oddity following matching and matching following oddity began below chance. Maximal level of performance on second-task oddity was comparable to that on first-task matching. By contrast, the maximal levels of performance when matching was the second task were not as high as that of the same subjects at the end of first-task oddity. All fish exhibited strong color preferences during matching acquisition but not during oddity acquisition. The data demonstrated that goldfish can acquire a discrimination in which the stimulus associated with reinforcement depends on the identity of a second stimulus.", "contents": "Matching-to-sample and oddity-from-sample in goldfish. Acquisition of three-alternative simultaneous matching-to-sample and oddity-from-sample was investigated. Five goldfish were trained on matching and five on oddity for a minimum of 70 days. Subsequently, six of the fish were trained for 70 days on the other task. Acquisition was similar for oddity and matching. Correct responding started at about chance level and slowly increased to about 75%, with some animals performing at levels of over 85%. Acquisition of oddity following matching and matching following oddity began below chance. Maximal level of performance on second-task oddity was comparable to that on first-task matching. By contrast, the maximal levels of performance when matching was the second task were not as high as that of the same subjects at the end of first-task oddity. All fish exhibited strong color preferences during matching acquisition but not during oddity acquisition. The data demonstrated that goldfish can acquire a discrimination in which the stimulus associated with reinforcement depends on the identity of a second stimulus.", "PMID": 448261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8513", "title": "Control by stimulus features during fading.", "content": "Sixteen children were given four successive circle-size discrimination problems with luminance as the fading stimulus. Children who were first presented with a difficult size discrimination failed to acquire this discrimination. Those who first received an easy discrimination learned the difficult discrimination. At the end of each 10-trial block, two probe stimuli were presented to monitor any shift in control from luminance to size. One probe was the same size as the positive stimulus but of different luminance; the other was the same luminance but of different size. If, in the course of fading, size and luminance both controlled responding, fading was successful. If luminance alone controlled responding until the end of fading, the size discrimination was not established. Dual control, and thus successful fading, resulted when the target stimuli were very discriminable, or when the target stimuli were subtly different provided that previous fading series had first established less subtle discriminations.", "contents": "Control by stimulus features during fading. Sixteen children were given four successive circle-size discrimination problems with luminance as the fading stimulus. Children who were first presented with a difficult size discrimination failed to acquire this discrimination. Those who first received an easy discrimination learned the difficult discrimination. At the end of each 10-trial block, two probe stimuli were presented to monitor any shift in control from luminance to size. One probe was the same size as the positive stimulus but of different luminance; the other was the same luminance but of different size. If, in the course of fading, size and luminance both controlled responding, fading was successful. If luminance alone controlled responding until the end of fading, the size discrimination was not established. Dual control, and thus successful fading, resulted when the target stimuli were very discriminable, or when the target stimuli were subtly different provided that previous fading series had first established less subtle discriminations.", "PMID": 448260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8514", "title": "Developmental studies of the lethal gene Bld in the mouse. I. Post-implantation development of the lethal homozygote.", "content": "In matings of Bld/+ x Bld/+ mice a characteristic type of abnormal embryo is found on days 6 and 7 after impregnation which dies at 8 days and accounts for about 25% of all living embryos. These embryos are regarded as the fethal Bld/Bld homozygotes. Before 6 days the embryos appear slightly retarded. Entodermal cells invade the yolk sac and the trophectoderm does not fuse to the uterine decidua. Late on day 6 the yolk sac is filled with a cap of unorganized cells of entodermal origin, surrounded by both a thick membrane of non-living material, corresponding to Reichert's membrane, and external to this a continuous layer of trophectoderm: there is still almost no contact with uterine tissue. At 7 days 10 h amniotic folds are formed. Mesoderm appears occasionally but is not always present; when it appears it does not grow out from its place of origin. Entodermal cells, particularly in the proximal part of the extra-embryonic region, become polyploid. At the same time, the trophectoderm makes contact with the uterine decidua and gives rise to primary giant cells. Twelve hours later, the embryonic cells begin to degenerate, first in the region of the amniotic fold and the mesoderm. The embryo dies shortly afterwards. It is suggested that the primary target tissues affected by the Bld/Bld constitution are trophectoderm and entoderm. Many but not all of the abnormal features appearing later can by ascribed to insufficient nutrition of the embryo, due to failure of attachment of the trophectoderm and the filling of the yolk sac with entodermal cells.", "contents": "Developmental studies of the lethal gene Bld in the mouse. I. Post-implantation development of the lethal homozygote. In matings of Bld/+ x Bld/+ mice a characteristic type of abnormal embryo is found on days 6 and 7 after impregnation which dies at 8 days and accounts for about 25% of all living embryos. These embryos are regarded as the fethal Bld/Bld homozygotes. Before 6 days the embryos appear slightly retarded. Entodermal cells invade the yolk sac and the trophectoderm does not fuse to the uterine decidua. Late on day 6 the yolk sac is filled with a cap of unorganized cells of entodermal origin, surrounded by both a thick membrane of non-living material, corresponding to Reichert's membrane, and external to this a continuous layer of trophectoderm: there is still almost no contact with uterine tissue. At 7 days 10 h amniotic folds are formed. Mesoderm appears occasionally but is not always present; when it appears it does not grow out from its place of origin. Entodermal cells, particularly in the proximal part of the extra-embryonic region, become polyploid. At the same time, the trophectoderm makes contact with the uterine decidua and gives rise to primary giant cells. Twelve hours later, the embryonic cells begin to degenerate, first in the region of the amniotic fold and the mesoderm. The embryo dies shortly afterwards. It is suggested that the primary target tissues affected by the Bld/Bld constitution are trophectoderm and entoderm. Many but not all of the abnormal features appearing later can by ascribed to insufficient nutrition of the embryo, due to failure of attachment of the trophectoderm and the filling of the yolk sac with entodermal cells.", "PMID": 448262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8515", "title": "Development of the segmental innervation of the chick forelimb.", "content": "A number of recent studies have shown that during embryonic development the initial innervation of a target structure may be made up, in part, by axons which do not form part of the mature innervation of that structure. In the present study we have examined the motor innervation of the major muscles of the chick forelimb at different stages of development using HRP-uptake-labelling of motoneurons, electrophysiological recording and measurement of muscle contraction. In the mature White Leghorn chick the major contribution to the motor innervation of the forelimb is from spinal segments 14, 15 and 16. Using the HRP-labelling technique we have shown that at stages 26-29 of development motoneurons in segments 12-17 have axon terminals in the presumptive biceps muscle. Between stages 30 and 35, however, the axon terminals arising from segments 12, 13, 16 and 17 are lost, leaving the mature innervation from segments 14 and 15. We have also observed the loss of innervation of the biceps muscle by segment 16 using electrophysiological recording of compound action potentials in the biceps nerve and by measurement of the local contraction of the biceps muscle in response to stimulation of the segmental nerves. Similar changes in the innervation of the triceps, extensor metacarpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor digitorum profundus muscles have also been observed. These results are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that (i) the motoneuron pools and muscles in the developing spinal cord and forelimb are matched, (ii) that some axons which arrive in a particular muscle during early development are unable to form a stable connexion and (iii) that the inability of an axon terminal to form a stable connexion in a muscle results in the death of the motoneuron. Intracellular recording from muscle cells at stage 35 shows that the synaptic site on each cell is innervated by about three separate axons. Over the next few stages, however, all but one of the innervating axons is lost. From our contraction studies it is clear that the removal of the excess axon terminals after stage 35 is not associated with the establishment of the mature segmental innervation pattern of the muscle.", "contents": "Development of the segmental innervation of the chick forelimb. A number of recent studies have shown that during embryonic development the initial innervation of a target structure may be made up, in part, by axons which do not form part of the mature innervation of that structure. In the present study we have examined the motor innervation of the major muscles of the chick forelimb at different stages of development using HRP-uptake-labelling of motoneurons, electrophysiological recording and measurement of muscle contraction. In the mature White Leghorn chick the major contribution to the motor innervation of the forelimb is from spinal segments 14, 15 and 16. Using the HRP-labelling technique we have shown that at stages 26-29 of development motoneurons in segments 12-17 have axon terminals in the presumptive biceps muscle. Between stages 30 and 35, however, the axon terminals arising from segments 12, 13, 16 and 17 are lost, leaving the mature innervation from segments 14 and 15. We have also observed the loss of innervation of the biceps muscle by segment 16 using electrophysiological recording of compound action potentials in the biceps nerve and by measurement of the local contraction of the biceps muscle in response to stimulation of the segmental nerves. Similar changes in the innervation of the triceps, extensor metacarpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor digitorum profundus muscles have also been observed. These results are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that (i) the motoneuron pools and muscles in the developing spinal cord and forelimb are matched, (ii) that some axons which arrive in a particular muscle during early development are unable to form a stable connexion and (iii) that the inability of an axon terminal to form a stable connexion in a muscle results in the death of the motoneuron. Intracellular recording from muscle cells at stage 35 shows that the synaptic site on each cell is innervated by about three separate axons. Over the next few stages, however, all but one of the innervating axons is lost. From our contraction studies it is clear that the removal of the excess axon terminals after stage 35 is not associated with the establishment of the mature segmental innervation pattern of the muscle.", "PMID": 448263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8516", "title": "Ventral horn cell counts in a Xenopus with naturally occurring supernumerary hind limbs.", "content": "In a Xenopus toad, two partially functioning supernumerary hind limbs developed naturally on the right side and were innervated by the ipsilateral side of the spinal cord. The number of ventral horn cells on the right was 18% higher than on the left while the combined mass of limb muscle on the right was estimated to be a 100% greater. This result corroborates studies with transplanted supernumerary limbs.", "contents": "Ventral horn cell counts in a Xenopus with naturally occurring supernumerary hind limbs. In a Xenopus toad, two partially functioning supernumerary hind limbs developed naturally on the right side and were innervated by the ipsilateral side of the spinal cord. The number of ventral horn cells on the right was 18% higher than on the left while the combined mass of limb muscle on the right was estimated to be a 100% greater. This result corroborates studies with transplanted supernumerary limbs.", "PMID": 448264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8517", "title": "Autonomy of tendon development in the embryonic chick wing.", "content": "The aim of this study performed in the embryonic chick wing is to test the ability of the tendons to form and develop in the absence of the muscle bellies. The experiments were performed on 2-day chick embryos by destroying a portion of the somitic mesoderm by local X-irradiation. The irradiated part included the wing somite level 15-20 and extended three somites (or presumptive somites) in front and two to six presumptive somites in the rear of the wing somite levels. The wings of the operated side were examined histologically 3-8 days after the X-irradiation. The radio-destruction of the somitic mesoderm totally inhibited or severely impaired the development of the forearm muscles. But, despite the absence of the flexor and extensor muscles the differentiation of the distal manus tendons could be observed. This differentiation occurred at the same time and in the same positions as in controls. However, these tendons were transient structures. They disappeared within three days after their individuation. Two mechanisms that progressed in proximo-distal direction were involved in their resorption: cellular dislocation and cell death. We conclude that tendons start to develop autonomously from the muscle bulks, but for their maintenance and further development they require connexion to a muscle belly.", "contents": "Autonomy of tendon development in the embryonic chick wing. The aim of this study performed in the embryonic chick wing is to test the ability of the tendons to form and develop in the absence of the muscle bellies. The experiments were performed on 2-day chick embryos by destroying a portion of the somitic mesoderm by local X-irradiation. The irradiated part included the wing somite level 15-20 and extended three somites (or presumptive somites) in front and two to six presumptive somites in the rear of the wing somite levels. The wings of the operated side were examined histologically 3-8 days after the X-irradiation. The radio-destruction of the somitic mesoderm totally inhibited or severely impaired the development of the forearm muscles. But, despite the absence of the flexor and extensor muscles the differentiation of the distal manus tendons could be observed. This differentiation occurred at the same time and in the same positions as in controls. However, these tendons were transient structures. They disappeared within three days after their individuation. Two mechanisms that progressed in proximo-distal direction were involved in their resorption: cellular dislocation and cell death. We conclude that tendons start to develop autonomously from the muscle bulks, but for their maintenance and further development they require connexion to a muscle belly.", "PMID": 448266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8518", "title": "Adenylation and ADP-ribosylation in the mouse 1-cell embryo.", "content": "The incorporation of [3H]AAadenosine into cold trichloroacetic acid (TCA) insoluble material by the mouse 1-cell embryo has been studied. Incorporation of label was high immediately after fertilization, then decreased over the next 7 h with the sharpest decline occurring 3-5 h after fertilization. A small maximum was observed at the time of pronuclear DNA synthesis. Actinomycin D at a concentration which inhibited the cleavage of 1-cell embryos by 50% had little effect on this incorporation, which in the period 1-6 h post-fertilization was shown by autoradiography to be confined to the ooplasm of the newly fertilized ovum. [3H]Adenosine and poly ([3H]A) were released from embryo RNA labelled 1-3 h after fertilization with [3H]adenosine by digestion with a mixture of ribonucleases A and T1. The poly ([3H]A) segments were hydrolysed by alkali to 3'-[3H]AMP and [3H]adenosine ([3H]AMP/[3H]adenosine = 5/1), and by snake venom phosphodiesterase to 5'-[3H]AMP but very little [3H]adenosine. These results suggest that adenylation of RNA occurs soon after fertilization, that this is a cytoplasmic event, and that most of the newly synthesized poly ([3H]A) segments are joined to pre-existing poly (A) tracts. The unusual polynucleotide, poly (ADP-ribose), identified by its resistance to alkali and the release of 2'-(5''-phosphoribosyl)-5'[3H]AMP on incubation with snake venom phosphodiesterase, was also found in the ribonuclease digest.", "contents": "Adenylation and ADP-ribosylation in the mouse 1-cell embryo. The incorporation of [3H]AAadenosine into cold trichloroacetic acid (TCA) insoluble material by the mouse 1-cell embryo has been studied. Incorporation of label was high immediately after fertilization, then decreased over the next 7 h with the sharpest decline occurring 3-5 h after fertilization. A small maximum was observed at the time of pronuclear DNA synthesis. Actinomycin D at a concentration which inhibited the cleavage of 1-cell embryos by 50% had little effect on this incorporation, which in the period 1-6 h post-fertilization was shown by autoradiography to be confined to the ooplasm of the newly fertilized ovum. [3H]Adenosine and poly ([3H]A) were released from embryo RNA labelled 1-3 h after fertilization with [3H]adenosine by digestion with a mixture of ribonucleases A and T1. The poly ([3H]A) segments were hydrolysed by alkali to 3'-[3H]AMP and [3H]adenosine ([3H]AMP/[3H]adenosine = 5/1), and by snake venom phosphodiesterase to 5'-[3H]AMP but very little [3H]adenosine. These results suggest that adenylation of RNA occurs soon after fertilization, that this is a cytoplasmic event, and that most of the newly synthesized poly ([3H]A) segments are joined to pre-existing poly (A) tracts. The unusual polynucleotide, poly (ADP-ribose), identified by its resistance to alkali and the release of 2'-(5''-phosphoribosyl)-5'[3H]AMP on incubation with snake venom phosphodiesterase, was also found in the ribonuclease digest.", "PMID": 448265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8519", "title": "A mutant of Tetrahymena thermophila with a partial mirror-image duplication of cell surface pattern. I. Analysis of the phenotype.", "content": "Cells of a mutant clone, CU-127, of Tetrahymena thermophila (formerly T. pyriformis, syngen 1) manifest three anatomical abnormalities. First, the stable number of ciliary meridians is 21-25, above the usual number (17-21) in this species. Second, up to 30% of the cells have two oral apparatuses (OAs), one normal and the other abnormal. Third, more than one-half of the cells possess two distinct sets of contractile vacuole pores (CVPs). In some living cells two contractile vacuoles are seen. These abnormalities have persisted unchanged during more than 500 generations of vegetative propagation, and are similarly expressed in subclones. The normal and abnormal OAs are topographically segregated, with normal OAs developing along the \"primary oral axis\" and abnormal OAs developing along a \"secondary oral axis\" that is situated 170 degrees of the cell circumference to the cell's right of the primary oral axis. CVPs always appear within this 170 degree arc and never within the complementary 190 degrees arc to the left of the primary oral axis. A unique feature of the CU-127 clone is the commonly expressed mirror image reversal of the structural pattern of OAs that develop along the secondary oral axis. The primordia of such OAs initially appear (as usual) to the cell's left of a ciliary meridian, but as membranelles develop the frequently come to be oriented in a mirror image of the normal pattern, and an undulating membrane sometimes develops on the wrong (left) side of the oral primordium. When two sets of CVPs are formed, their average positions are roughly equidistant with respect to the two oral axes, with the two sets located 50-60 degrees to the right and left respectively of the primary and secondary oral axis. Such cells are thus bilaterally symmetrical about a plane defined by the central longitudinal axis and the halfway point between the two CVP sets (see Fig. 25). This plane bisects the cell into a normal and a \"reversed\" half-cell. However, only oral asymmetry and large-scale CVP positioning are subject to such reversal; all ciliary meridians remain of normal asymmetry and all CVPs are situated on the left side of CVP meridians. The fact that major aspects of large-scale cellular organization can be reversed while the \"fine-positioning\" associated with the ciliary meridians remains normal indicates that the two aspects of cell organization are distinct.", "contents": "A mutant of Tetrahymena thermophila with a partial mirror-image duplication of cell surface pattern. I. Analysis of the phenotype. Cells of a mutant clone, CU-127, of Tetrahymena thermophila (formerly T. pyriformis, syngen 1) manifest three anatomical abnormalities. First, the stable number of ciliary meridians is 21-25, above the usual number (17-21) in this species. Second, up to 30% of the cells have two oral apparatuses (OAs), one normal and the other abnormal. Third, more than one-half of the cells possess two distinct sets of contractile vacuole pores (CVPs). In some living cells two contractile vacuoles are seen. These abnormalities have persisted unchanged during more than 500 generations of vegetative propagation, and are similarly expressed in subclones. The normal and abnormal OAs are topographically segregated, with normal OAs developing along the \"primary oral axis\" and abnormal OAs developing along a \"secondary oral axis\" that is situated 170 degrees of the cell circumference to the cell's right of the primary oral axis. CVPs always appear within this 170 degree arc and never within the complementary 190 degrees arc to the left of the primary oral axis. A unique feature of the CU-127 clone is the commonly expressed mirror image reversal of the structural pattern of OAs that develop along the secondary oral axis. The primordia of such OAs initially appear (as usual) to the cell's left of a ciliary meridian, but as membranelles develop the frequently come to be oriented in a mirror image of the normal pattern, and an undulating membrane sometimes develops on the wrong (left) side of the oral primordium. When two sets of CVPs are formed, their average positions are roughly equidistant with respect to the two oral axes, with the two sets located 50-60 degrees to the right and left respectively of the primary and secondary oral axis. Such cells are thus bilaterally symmetrical about a plane defined by the central longitudinal axis and the halfway point between the two CVP sets (see Fig. 25). This plane bisects the cell into a normal and a \"reversed\" half-cell. However, only oral asymmetry and large-scale CVP positioning are subject to such reversal; all ciliary meridians remain of normal asymmetry and all CVPs are situated on the left side of CVP meridians. The fact that major aspects of large-scale cellular organization can be reversed while the \"fine-positioning\" associated with the ciliary meridians remains normal indicates that the two aspects of cell organization are distinct.", "PMID": 448267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8520", "title": "Culture of early somite mouse embryos during organogenesis.", "content": "Early somite (2-4) mouse embryos were explanted and then maintained in culture for 24 or 48 h intervals. Various types of media were tested and it was determined that rat serum supported normal growth over a period of 48 h, based on total protein analysis and histological comparisons with in vivo specimens. Other media including fetal calf serum and fetal calf serum and Waymouth's (1:1) supported some growth, but did not equal the success of using rat serum alone. During the 48 h culture period in rat serum, embryos developed to stages indistinguishable from embryos maintained for a similar time in vivo.", "contents": "Culture of early somite mouse embryos during organogenesis. Early somite (2-4) mouse embryos were explanted and then maintained in culture for 24 or 48 h intervals. Various types of media were tested and it was determined that rat serum supported normal growth over a period of 48 h, based on total protein analysis and histological comparisons with in vivo specimens. Other media including fetal calf serum and fetal calf serum and Waymouth's (1:1) supported some growth, but did not equal the success of using rat serum alone. During the 48 h culture period in rat serum, embryos developed to stages indistinguishable from embryos maintained for a similar time in vivo.", "PMID": 448268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8521", "title": "A mutant of Tetrahymena thermophila with a partial mirror-image duplication of cell surface pattern. II. Nature of genic control.", "content": "The CU-127 clone of Tetrahymena thermophila, which manifests an unusually high number of ciliary rows plus a second set of abnormal oral structures and of contractile vacuole pores with partial mirror-image reversal of asymmetry (Jerka-Dziadosz & Frankel, 1979), has been subjected to breeding analysis. The progeny ratios obtained in various crosses indicate that the abnormalities of cell-surface asymmetry are brought to expression as a result of the action of a recessive allele at a single gene locus, here named janus. When previously normal cells were made homozygous for the jan allele, the cortical pattern characteristic of the CU-127 clone came rapidly to expression, often without associated change in number of ciliary meridians. Conversely, when cells previously expressing jan re-acquired the wild-type (jan+) allele, they returned to the normal pattern of a single normal oral structure and a single normally located set of contractile vacuole pores while still retaining the high ciliary meridian number characteristic of the original CU-127 clone. The capacity for manifestation of the unique asymmetry pattern depends solely on homozygous expression of the janus allele, whereas the stable number of ciliary meridians in janus clones and the degree of expression of secondary OAs is modulated by other factors, probably at least in part genic. These results, taken together with those of the preceding paper, indicate that the janus allele promotes the propagation and/or expression of a condition of reversed asymmetry in a precisely located cell region, and further indicates that the propagation and expression of this condition are largely independent of the number and asymmetry of ciliary meridians.", "contents": "A mutant of Tetrahymena thermophila with a partial mirror-image duplication of cell surface pattern. II. Nature of genic control. The CU-127 clone of Tetrahymena thermophila, which manifests an unusually high number of ciliary rows plus a second set of abnormal oral structures and of contractile vacuole pores with partial mirror-image reversal of asymmetry (Jerka-Dziadosz & Frankel, 1979), has been subjected to breeding analysis. The progeny ratios obtained in various crosses indicate that the abnormalities of cell-surface asymmetry are brought to expression as a result of the action of a recessive allele at a single gene locus, here named janus. When previously normal cells were made homozygous for the jan allele, the cortical pattern characteristic of the CU-127 clone came rapidly to expression, often without associated change in number of ciliary meridians. Conversely, when cells previously expressing jan re-acquired the wild-type (jan+) allele, they returned to the normal pattern of a single normal oral structure and a single normally located set of contractile vacuole pores while still retaining the high ciliary meridian number characteristic of the original CU-127 clone. The capacity for manifestation of the unique asymmetry pattern depends solely on homozygous expression of the janus allele, whereas the stable number of ciliary meridians in janus clones and the degree of expression of secondary OAs is modulated by other factors, probably at least in part genic. These results, taken together with those of the preceding paper, indicate that the janus allele promotes the propagation and/or expression of a condition of reversed asymmetry in a precisely located cell region, and further indicates that the propagation and expression of this condition are largely independent of the number and asymmetry of ciliary meridians.", "PMID": 448269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8522", "title": "Duplicated axolotl regenerates.", "content": "Three series of palette stage regenerates were prepared by amputating both arms of juvenile axolotls in the mid-forearm, above the elbow, or close to the shoulder. Within each series, excised regenerates were replaced in their original orientation (as a control) or rotated at 90 degrees intervals about the proximodistal axis, or were transplanted to the contralateral arm with identical rotations. Control grafts occasionally caused the formation of a single extra digit. All experimental rotations provoked duplicate or triplicate structures, ranging from accessory digits to extra forearms. Shoulder level grafts were subject to a pronounced correctional derotation and yielded a variable proportion of duplications. Forearm and elbow-level rotations invariably yielded duplications, which therefore result from an axial discrepancy rather than complete axial opposition between graft and host. These results are incompatible with the clockface model of positional information and demand a modification of other current models. The recorded frequency and orientation of duplications suggest that a limb contains at least two polarized transverse axes which cannot be respecified during regeneration. A substantial discrepancy on either axis reduces the normal regulative interaction between graft and host, allowing either of them to regenerate independently.", "contents": "Duplicated axolotl regenerates. Three series of palette stage regenerates were prepared by amputating both arms of juvenile axolotls in the mid-forearm, above the elbow, or close to the shoulder. Within each series, excised regenerates were replaced in their original orientation (as a control) or rotated at 90 degrees intervals about the proximodistal axis, or were transplanted to the contralateral arm with identical rotations. Control grafts occasionally caused the formation of a single extra digit. All experimental rotations provoked duplicate or triplicate structures, ranging from accessory digits to extra forearms. Shoulder level grafts were subject to a pronounced correctional derotation and yielded a variable proportion of duplications. Forearm and elbow-level rotations invariably yielded duplications, which therefore result from an axial discrepancy rather than complete axial opposition between graft and host. These results are incompatible with the clockface model of positional information and demand a modification of other current models. The recorded frequency and orientation of duplications suggest that a limb contains at least two polarized transverse axes which cannot be respecified during regeneration. A substantial discrepancy on either axis reduces the normal regulative interaction between graft and host, allowing either of them to regenerate independently.", "PMID": 448271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8523", "title": "A study of digit fusion in the mouse embryo.", "content": "During the embryonic development of the mouse limb separation of the digit is followed by their union. This is a true, though temporary, epithelial fusion, a fused layer of epidermal cells remaining intact until separation takes place after birth. The periderm cells in the line of fusion are displaced to the dorsal or ventral surface of the foot. On the dorsal surface these displaced cells form a prominent interdigital ridge of elongated, intertwined cells which remains until the periderm is shed. During the fusion of the eyelids, and also of the pinnae to the scalp, a similar ridge of periderm cells is formed.", "contents": "A study of digit fusion in the mouse embryo. During the embryonic development of the mouse limb separation of the digit is followed by their union. This is a true, though temporary, epithelial fusion, a fused layer of epidermal cells remaining intact until separation takes place after birth. The periderm cells in the line of fusion are displaced to the dorsal or ventral surface of the foot. On the dorsal surface these displaced cells form a prominent interdigital ridge of elongated, intertwined cells which remains until the periderm is shed. During the fusion of the eyelids, and also of the pinnae to the scalp, a similar ridge of periderm cells is formed.", "PMID": 448272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8524", "title": "Post-embryonic determination of the ecdysial line in the cockroach: evidence for pattern regulation in the medio-lateral axis.", "content": "By removing or transplanting sections of the ecdysial line in the cockroach Gromphadorhina portentosa, pattern regulation in medio-lateral axis of an insect has been demonstrated. The line can reform after sections have been removed and when epidermal grafts from either side of the midline are grafted with confronting medial edges. The results are explicable in terms of known mechanisms for pattern regulation in insects.", "contents": "Post-embryonic determination of the ecdysial line in the cockroach: evidence for pattern regulation in the medio-lateral axis. By removing or transplanting sections of the ecdysial line in the cockroach Gromphadorhina portentosa, pattern regulation in medio-lateral axis of an insect has been demonstrated. The line can reform after sections have been removed and when epidermal grafts from either side of the midline are grafted with confronting medial edges. The results are explicable in terms of known mechanisms for pattern regulation in insects.", "PMID": 448273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8525", "title": "Formation and consequences of cell patterns in preimplantation mouse development.", "content": "The behaviour of groups of cells was studied in culture during preimplantation mouse development. The following observations were made with intact embryos minus the zona pellucida and with embryos whose cells had been dissociated and recombined. The form of the 4-cell embryo was related to the behaviour of the first cell to divide to this stage. The form of the 8-cell embryo depended on contact between the groups of four cells each derived from a single cell at the 2-cell stage. The form of the 16-cell embryo depended on cell movement during and after division from the 8- to the 16-cell stage. These results suggest that the morphogenetic movements of these early embryonic cells are principally governed by continuous cell interactions after fertilization. The cell surfaces of the embryos were examined with scanning electron microscopy in an attempt to discriminate between the mechanisms which could account for these movements.", "contents": "Formation and consequences of cell patterns in preimplantation mouse development. The behaviour of groups of cells was studied in culture during preimplantation mouse development. The following observations were made with intact embryos minus the zona pellucida and with embryos whose cells had been dissociated and recombined. The form of the 4-cell embryo was related to the behaviour of the first cell to divide to this stage. The form of the 8-cell embryo depended on contact between the groups of four cells each derived from a single cell at the 2-cell stage. The form of the 16-cell embryo depended on cell movement during and after division from the 8- to the 16-cell stage. These results suggest that the morphogenetic movements of these early embryonic cells are principally governed by continuous cell interactions after fertilization. The cell surfaces of the embryos were examined with scanning electron microscopy in an attempt to discriminate between the mechanisms which could account for these movements.", "PMID": 448274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8526", "title": "The influence of local environment on the organization of mesenchyme cells.", "content": "Limb, somite, and neural crest mesenchyme from quail embryos were implanted orthotopically and heterotopically into chick hosts to ascertain the relative importance of the local environment on mesenchyme migration. It was found that mesenchyme behavior is strongly influenced by the environment. Normally non-migratory, limb mesenchyme is capable of spreading like sclerotome when placed in the somite region. A somite placed in the limb acquires an appearance typical of limb mesenchyme. Neural crest placed in the limb migrates only along the co-implanted neural tube or axons growing out from it. The orthotopic transplantations showed that quail mesenchyme behaves normally in chick embryos. Furthermore, it was observed in the orthotopic transplants that there was no intermingling of quail and chick cells even at the edge of the graft. This result indicates that cells within mesenchyme are normally not locomotory; rather, the mesenchyme \"migrates\" by spreading and expansion of the tissue as a unit in response to local influences.", "contents": "The influence of local environment on the organization of mesenchyme cells. Limb, somite, and neural crest mesenchyme from quail embryos were implanted orthotopically and heterotopically into chick hosts to ascertain the relative importance of the local environment on mesenchyme migration. It was found that mesenchyme behavior is strongly influenced by the environment. Normally non-migratory, limb mesenchyme is capable of spreading like sclerotome when placed in the somite region. A somite placed in the limb acquires an appearance typical of limb mesenchyme. Neural crest placed in the limb migrates only along the co-implanted neural tube or axons growing out from it. The orthotopic transplantations showed that quail mesenchyme behaves normally in chick embryos. Furthermore, it was observed in the orthotopic transplants that there was no intermingling of quail and chick cells even at the edge of the graft. This result indicates that cells within mesenchyme are normally not locomotory; rather, the mesenchyme \"migrates\" by spreading and expansion of the tissue as a unit in response to local influences.", "PMID": 448275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8527", "title": "The influence of the lower beak on the interorbital septum-prenasal process complex in the chick embryo.", "content": "The effect of removal of the lower beak on the development of the interorbital septumprenasal process (ISPP) complex was studied in chick embryos. In normal development the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the long axis of the prenasal process increases. At the same time the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the basal plate increases. After surgical removal of the prospective lower beak at stage 29, the position of the entire ISPP complex was altered in stage-38 embryos and the prenasal process showed elongation. In stage-38 embryos in which the prospective upper beak had been removed at stage 29, Meckel's cartilage was elongated. It is concluded that straightening of the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the long axis of the prenasal process is not influenced by the lower beak, whereas the position of the entire ISPP complex and the size of the prenasal process are under the epigenetic influence of the lower beak. The position and size of Meckel's cartilage are under the epigenetic influence of the upper beak.", "contents": "The influence of the lower beak on the interorbital septum-prenasal process complex in the chick embryo. The effect of removal of the lower beak on the development of the interorbital septumprenasal process (ISPP) complex was studied in chick embryos. In normal development the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the long axis of the prenasal process increases. At the same time the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the basal plate increases. After surgical removal of the prospective lower beak at stage 29, the position of the entire ISPP complex was altered in stage-38 embryos and the prenasal process showed elongation. In stage-38 embryos in which the prospective upper beak had been removed at stage 29, Meckel's cartilage was elongated. It is concluded that straightening of the angle between the ventral contour of the interorbital septum and the long axis of the prenasal process is not influenced by the lower beak, whereas the position of the entire ISPP complex and the size of the prenasal process are under the epigenetic influence of the lower beak. The position and size of Meckel's cartilage are under the epigenetic influence of the upper beak.", "PMID": 448277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8528", "title": "Monomeric and aggregate proteoglycans in the chondrogenic differentiation of embryonic chick limb buds.", "content": "Proteoglycan heterogeneity was studied during the in vivo differentiation of embryonic chick limb cartilage. Recently, it has been shown that during the differentation of limb cartilage the proportion of the aggregated form of proteoglycans increases whereas the unassociated monomeric forms decrease, and this has been related to the synthesis of two link proteins at a specific stage of differentation. In this study it is suggested that the appearance of the aggregate formation is also due to synthesis of a stable hyaluronic acid binding region of the core protein. Thus, it can be concluded that differential gene expression for these proteins takes place as a differentiation phenomenon.", "contents": "Monomeric and aggregate proteoglycans in the chondrogenic differentiation of embryonic chick limb buds. Proteoglycan heterogeneity was studied during the in vivo differentiation of embryonic chick limb cartilage. Recently, it has been shown that during the differentation of limb cartilage the proportion of the aggregated form of proteoglycans increases whereas the unassociated monomeric forms decrease, and this has been related to the synthesis of two link proteins at a specific stage of differentation. In this study it is suggested that the appearance of the aggregate formation is also due to synthesis of a stable hyaluronic acid binding region of the core protein. Thus, it can be concluded that differential gene expression for these proteins takes place as a differentiation phenomenon.", "PMID": 448276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8529", "title": "Role of the somitic mesoderm in the development of the thorax in bird embryos. II. Origin of thoracic and appendicular musculature.", "content": "The regional embryonic origin of trunk and limb musculature was determined through heterospecific homotopic or heterotopic transplantations of quail somitic or somiticsomatopleural mesoderm into chick hosts, and through localized X-irradiation of the somitic mesoderm. Experiments were performed on 2-day embryos. Results show that the myoblastic component of all truncal and appendicular muscles is of somitic origin. Intra- and perimuscular connective tissue as well as tendons are of somatopleural origin. X-ray destruction of the somitic mesoderm at and beyond the wing level resulted in the complete or almost complete absence of musculature in the wing and corresponding truncal region. The mapping of the cephalocaudal origin of the various muscles was found to be as follows: Intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the wing and scapular girdle Somites 12-20 Grand pectoral muscle Somites 12-22 Intercostal muscles Somites 19-26 Abdominal muscles Somites 27-29 Intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the leg and pelvic girdle Somites 26-32 Dorsal and intervertebral muscles Metameric level, specific origin In the heterotopic transplantations, the grafted somitic mesoderm gave rise to site-specific morphogenesis, irrespective of the cephalocaudal level of its origin. This result demonstrates that, at 2 days of incubation, the myogenic somitic cells are not regionalized.", "contents": "Role of the somitic mesoderm in the development of the thorax in bird embryos. II. Origin of thoracic and appendicular musculature. The regional embryonic origin of trunk and limb musculature was determined through heterospecific homotopic or heterotopic transplantations of quail somitic or somiticsomatopleural mesoderm into chick hosts, and through localized X-irradiation of the somitic mesoderm. Experiments were performed on 2-day embryos. Results show that the myoblastic component of all truncal and appendicular muscles is of somitic origin. Intra- and perimuscular connective tissue as well as tendons are of somatopleural origin. X-ray destruction of the somitic mesoderm at and beyond the wing level resulted in the complete or almost complete absence of musculature in the wing and corresponding truncal region. The mapping of the cephalocaudal origin of the various muscles was found to be as follows: Intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the wing and scapular girdle Somites 12-20 Grand pectoral muscle Somites 12-22 Intercostal muscles Somites 19-26 Abdominal muscles Somites 27-29 Intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the leg and pelvic girdle Somites 26-32 Dorsal and intervertebral muscles Metameric level, specific origin In the heterotopic transplantations, the grafted somitic mesoderm gave rise to site-specific morphogenesis, irrespective of the cephalocaudal level of its origin. This result demonstrates that, at 2 days of incubation, the myogenic somitic cells are not regionalized.", "PMID": 448278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8530", "title": "H-2 I-region encoded targets in allograft rejection.", "content": "Fresh thyroids transplanted to I-region disparate recipients are, in most cases, rejected; in some instances fresh thyroids undergo periods of crisis followed by functional recovery. Cultured thyroids that are taken from donor animals pretreated with lymphocytotoxic drugs, gamma radiation and cultured for 10 d in vitro are not rejected by any normal allogenic recipient. If the recipient is sensitized with lymphoid cells syngeneic with an I-region disparate cultured thyroid donor, the cultured thyroid is rejected if I-A-subregion differences are included. We interpret these data to indicate that there exist I-region encoded perenchymal cell target determinants which are not, by themselves, immunogenic.", "contents": "H-2 I-region encoded targets in allograft rejection. Fresh thyroids transplanted to I-region disparate recipients are, in most cases, rejected; in some instances fresh thyroids undergo periods of crisis followed by functional recovery. Cultured thyroids that are taken from donor animals pretreated with lymphocytotoxic drugs, gamma radiation and cultured for 10 d in vitro are not rejected by any normal allogenic recipient. If the recipient is sensitized with lymphoid cells syngeneic with an I-region disparate cultured thyroid donor, the cultured thyroid is rejected if I-A-subregion differences are included. We interpret these data to indicate that there exist I-region encoded perenchymal cell target determinants which are not, by themselves, immunogenic.", "PMID": 448286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8531", "title": "Time-dependent localization of arsenic in subcellular liver fractions.", "content": "In an effort to assess previously reported localization of arsenic within the hepatocyte nucleus (determined on the basis of increases in the percent of nuclei containing inclusion structures as time of exposure to arsenic increased) (Sorensen, 1976c), cell separations were conducted on fish livers following in vivo exposures identical to those previously reported. Green sunfish were exposed to 60 ppm arsenic for 2, 4, or 6 days prior to homogenation and subfractionation of the liver for arsenic determinations by neutron activation analysis. Mean percent arsenic in the soluble cytoplasmic fraction decreased significantly from 46 to 28 to 17 percent in 2, 4, or 6 days, respectively; whereas arsenic in the nuclear and cell residue fraction increased significantly from 12 to 42 to 58 percent during the same time period. All subfractions were found to contain homogeneous populations of subcellular organelles.", "contents": "Time-dependent localization of arsenic in subcellular liver fractions. In an effort to assess previously reported localization of arsenic within the hepatocyte nucleus (determined on the basis of increases in the percent of nuclei containing inclusion structures as time of exposure to arsenic increased) (Sorensen, 1976c), cell separations were conducted on fish livers following in vivo exposures identical to those previously reported. Green sunfish were exposed to 60 ppm arsenic for 2, 4, or 6 days prior to homogenation and subfractionation of the liver for arsenic determinations by neutron activation analysis. Mean percent arsenic in the soluble cytoplasmic fraction decreased significantly from 46 to 28 to 17 percent in 2, 4, or 6 days, respectively; whereas arsenic in the nuclear and cell residue fraction increased significantly from 12 to 42 to 58 percent during the same time period. All subfractions were found to contain homogeneous populations of subcellular organelles.", "PMID": 448257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8532", "title": "Direct evidence that natural killer cells in nonimmune spleen cell populations prevent tumor growth in vivo.", "content": "Relatively large numbers of nonimmune spleen cells do not protect against the local growth of two lymphomas. However, this heterogeneous population of splenic lymphocytes contains a subset of cells that efficiently protects against in vivo tumor growth. This cell population (cell-surface phenotype Thyl.2(-)Ig(-)Ly5.1(+)) represents less than 5 percent of the spleen cell population and is responsible for in vitro NK-mediated lysis. Although these studies clearly and directly demonstrate that Ly5(+) NK cells selected from a heterogeneous lymphoid population from nonimmune mice can protect syngeneic mice against local in vivo growth of two different types of tumor cells (in contrast to other lymphocyte sets within the spleen), they do not directly bear upon the role of NK cells in immunosurveillance. They do indicate that highly enriched Ig(-)Thyl(-)Ly5(+) cells, which account for virtually all in vitro NK activity, can retard tumor growth in vivo. It is difficult to ascribe all anti-tumor surveillance activity to NK cells, because they probably do not recirculate freely throughout the various organ systems of the body. Perhaps NK ceils may play a role in prevention of neoplastic growth within discrete anatomic compartments where there is rapid differentiation of stem cells to mature progeny (e.g., bone marrow, spleen, and portions of the gastrointestinal tract)and may normally act to regulate the growth and differentiation of non-neoplastic stem cells. Long-term observation of chimeric mice repopulated with bone marrow from congenic or mutant donors expressing very low or very high NK activity may help to answer these questions.", "contents": "Direct evidence that natural killer cells in nonimmune spleen cell populations prevent tumor growth in vivo. Relatively large numbers of nonimmune spleen cells do not protect against the local growth of two lymphomas. However, this heterogeneous population of splenic lymphocytes contains a subset of cells that efficiently protects against in vivo tumor growth. This cell population (cell-surface phenotype Thyl.2(-)Ig(-)Ly5.1(+)) represents less than 5 percent of the spleen cell population and is responsible for in vitro NK-mediated lysis. Although these studies clearly and directly demonstrate that Ly5(+) NK cells selected from a heterogeneous lymphoid population from nonimmune mice can protect syngeneic mice against local in vivo growth of two different types of tumor cells (in contrast to other lymphocyte sets within the spleen), they do not directly bear upon the role of NK cells in immunosurveillance. They do indicate that highly enriched Ig(-)Thyl(-)Ly5(+) cells, which account for virtually all in vitro NK activity, can retard tumor growth in vivo. It is difficult to ascribe all anti-tumor surveillance activity to NK cells, because they probably do not recirculate freely throughout the various organ systems of the body. Perhaps NK ceils may play a role in prevention of neoplastic growth within discrete anatomic compartments where there is rapid differentiation of stem cells to mature progeny (e.g., bone marrow, spleen, and portions of the gastrointestinal tract)and may normally act to regulate the growth and differentiation of non-neoplastic stem cells. Long-term observation of chimeric mice repopulated with bone marrow from congenic or mutant donors expressing very low or very high NK activity may help to answer these questions.", "PMID": 448287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8533", "title": "Immune phagocytosis in murine malaria.", "content": "Spleen macrophages from Plasmodium berghei-infected mice are more efficient in the ingestion of parasitized reticulocytes than spleen macrophages obtained from normal animals. Other indications of spleen macrophage activation detected during malarial infection are enhanced macrophage spreading and increased phagocytosis of opsonized and nonopsonized sheep erythrocytes (E). Peritoneal macrophages are not activated to a significant degree. The appearance of antibodies directed against Forssman antigen, but not to other erythrocyte antigens, is also a feature of this infection and explains the ingestion of unsensitized E by spleen macrophages of the diseased animals. The recognition and ingestion of parasitized reticulocytes by infected mice in mediated by cold-agglutinin type immunoglobulins that appear during P. berghei infection and can be blocked by the Fc-binding protein A from Staphylococcus aureus. In advanced stages of the disease, the serum of infected animals inhibits phagocytosis, probably because of the high level of circulating immune complexes. Thus, the clearance of malaria parasites is regulated by several elements of the immune system, in addition to levels of specific antimerozoite antibodies, including the amount of antibodies bound to reticulocytes, the presence of circulating immune complexes, and the degree of macrophage stimulation.", "contents": "Immune phagocytosis in murine malaria. Spleen macrophages from Plasmodium berghei-infected mice are more efficient in the ingestion of parasitized reticulocytes than spleen macrophages obtained from normal animals. Other indications of spleen macrophage activation detected during malarial infection are enhanced macrophage spreading and increased phagocytosis of opsonized and nonopsonized sheep erythrocytes (E). Peritoneal macrophages are not activated to a significant degree. The appearance of antibodies directed against Forssman antigen, but not to other erythrocyte antigens, is also a feature of this infection and explains the ingestion of unsensitized E by spleen macrophages of the diseased animals. The recognition and ingestion of parasitized reticulocytes by infected mice in mediated by cold-agglutinin type immunoglobulins that appear during P. berghei infection and can be blocked by the Fc-binding protein A from Staphylococcus aureus. In advanced stages of the disease, the serum of infected animals inhibits phagocytosis, probably because of the high level of circulating immune complexes. Thus, the clearance of malaria parasites is regulated by several elements of the immune system, in addition to levels of specific antimerozoite antibodies, including the amount of antibodies bound to reticulocytes, the presence of circulating immune complexes, and the degree of macrophage stimulation.", "PMID": 448288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8534", "title": "The influence of steroid hormone metabolites on the in vitro development of erythroid colonies derived from human bone marrow.", "content": "Certain C19 and C21 steroid metabolites, when incubated with normal human bone marrow cells in culture, increased the number of erythroid colonies in the presence of erythropoietin. Among a number of pairs of C5 epimeric steroids tested, most 5beta (A:B cis) steroids stimulated the growth of both early erythroid progenitor cells (BFU-E) and late erythroid progenitor cells (CFU-E), whereas only a few 5alpha-(A:B trans) steroids stimulated the growth of CFU-E. No 5alpha-compounds of six pairs of steroids studied were found to stimulate BFU-E formation. This structure-activity relationship conforms with that previously observed in studies of steroid induction of ALA-synthase in avian embryo liver cells and hemoglobin synthesis in the cultured avian blastoderm. When human bone marrow cells were preincubated with the steroids for 2 d, followed by incubation with erythropoietin, only the 5 beta-compounds stimulated the growth of BFU-E. Similarly, when addition of steroids was delayed in relation to erythropoietin in the culture, only the 5 beta-derivative of a pair of C5 epimeric compounds displayed an enhancing effect on the growth of BFU-E. This effect required that the steroid addition be made no later than 48 h after initiation of the culture. These data demonstrate that certain natural steroid metabolites significantly stimulate erythropoiesis in normal human bone marrow cells in culture. They also indicate that 5 beta-compounds are more stimulatory than their 5 alpha-epimers, and they suggest that these 5 beta-steroids act preferentially on very primitive erythroid progenitor cells, probably on BFU-E.", "contents": "The influence of steroid hormone metabolites on the in vitro development of erythroid colonies derived from human bone marrow. Certain C19 and C21 steroid metabolites, when incubated with normal human bone marrow cells in culture, increased the number of erythroid colonies in the presence of erythropoietin. Among a number of pairs of C5 epimeric steroids tested, most 5beta (A:B cis) steroids stimulated the growth of both early erythroid progenitor cells (BFU-E) and late erythroid progenitor cells (CFU-E), whereas only a few 5alpha-(A:B trans) steroids stimulated the growth of CFU-E. No 5alpha-compounds of six pairs of steroids studied were found to stimulate BFU-E formation. This structure-activity relationship conforms with that previously observed in studies of steroid induction of ALA-synthase in avian embryo liver cells and hemoglobin synthesis in the cultured avian blastoderm. When human bone marrow cells were preincubated with the steroids for 2 d, followed by incubation with erythropoietin, only the 5 beta-compounds stimulated the growth of BFU-E. Similarly, when addition of steroids was delayed in relation to erythropoietin in the culture, only the 5 beta-derivative of a pair of C5 epimeric compounds displayed an enhancing effect on the growth of BFU-E. This effect required that the steroid addition be made no later than 48 h after initiation of the culture. These data demonstrate that certain natural steroid metabolites significantly stimulate erythropoiesis in normal human bone marrow cells in culture. They also indicate that 5 beta-compounds are more stimulatory than their 5 alpha-epimers, and they suggest that these 5 beta-steroids act preferentially on very primitive erythroid progenitor cells, probably on BFU-E.", "PMID": 448289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8535", "title": "Evidence for two homologous, but nonidentical, Ia molecules determined by the I-EC subregion.", "content": "Sequential immunoprecipitation, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and peptide mapping analyses of B10A(3R), 35S-methionine-labeled, I-EC subregion products were performed. Evidence is presented here for the presence of two structurally homologous, but nonidentical, gene products of the I-EC subregion. These two Ia molecules are independently immunoprecipitable, identical in molecular size and charge, but differ by approximately equal to 20% in their peptides obtained by partial digestion with Staphylococcus aureus protease V8.", "contents": "Evidence for two homologous, but nonidentical, Ia molecules determined by the I-EC subregion. Sequential immunoprecipitation, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and peptide mapping analyses of B10A(3R), 35S-methionine-labeled, I-EC subregion products were performed. Evidence is presented here for the presence of two structurally homologous, but nonidentical, gene products of the I-EC subregion. These two Ia molecules are independently immunoprecipitable, identical in molecular size and charge, but differ by approximately equal to 20% in their peptides obtained by partial digestion with Staphylococcus aureus protease V8.", "PMID": 448292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8536", "title": "Release of arachidonic acid from human lymphocytes in response to mitogenic lectins.", "content": "After exposure to mitogenic lectins in vitro, human mononuclear cells (95% lymphocytes) that had been prelabeled with [14C]arachidonic acid rapidly released a portion of their radioactivity in the medium. Most of the released radioactivity was demonstrated to be free arachidonic acid. Although other sources are not excluded, the most important source of cell-bound radioactivity in the release reaction appeared to be phosphatidylinositol, suggesting that at least part of the response is occurring through an increase in phospholipase A2 activity. By gas liquid chromatography, other fatty acids were also shown to be released, but there was considerable selectivity in the response for arachidonic acid. The response was dependent on the availability of free Ca++ in the medium and was enhanced by serum proteins and unlabeled arachidonic acid. Most of the response appeared to be from the the lymphocytes themselves rather than from contaminating cells. The rapid generation of free arachidonic acid in response to mitogenic lectins suggests a possible role for arachidonic acid metabolites in the activation process.", "contents": "Release of arachidonic acid from human lymphocytes in response to mitogenic lectins. After exposure to mitogenic lectins in vitro, human mononuclear cells (95% lymphocytes) that had been prelabeled with [14C]arachidonic acid rapidly released a portion of their radioactivity in the medium. Most of the released radioactivity was demonstrated to be free arachidonic acid. Although other sources are not excluded, the most important source of cell-bound radioactivity in the release reaction appeared to be phosphatidylinositol, suggesting that at least part of the response is occurring through an increase in phospholipase A2 activity. By gas liquid chromatography, other fatty acids were also shown to be released, but there was considerable selectivity in the response for arachidonic acid. The response was dependent on the availability of free Ca++ in the medium and was enhanced by serum proteins and unlabeled arachidonic acid. Most of the response appeared to be from the the lymphocytes themselves rather than from contaminating cells. The rapid generation of free arachidonic acid in response to mitogenic lectins suggests a possible role for arachidonic acid metabolites in the activation process.", "PMID": 448290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8537", "title": "Origin, Kinetics, and characteristics of pulmonary macrophages in the normal steady state.", "content": "Pulmonary macrophages of mice in the steady state were isolated by lavage with PBS containing EDTA and subsequent enzymatic digestion of tissue with pronase and DNA-ase. By this method, the total pulmonary macrophage population was obtained in two cell suspensions, one with a pure population of pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) and the other with a mixed population of pulmonary alveolar and pulmonary tissue macrophages (PTM). The morphological, cytochemical, and functional characteristics of both PAM and PTM were like those of mature tissue macrophages except for the presence of C3 receptors. These receptors were almost absent on PAM and present on a larger number of cells in the mixed population of PAM and PTM. The total pulmonary macrophage population of mice in the steady state is approximately equal to 2 x 10(6), of which about 93% are PAM and about 7% are PTM. In labeling experiments with 3H-thymidine, the low in vitro labeling indices (less than 3%) for both PAM and the mixture of PAM and PTM, showed that both are essentially nondividing cells. In vivo labeling studies showed an increase in the number of labeled macrophages that can only be attributed to labeled monocytes migrating into the lungs. Additional evidence was provided by a decrease in the labeling indices of pulmonary macrophages when mice were treated with hydrocortisone acetate, which causes a severe monocytopenia, thus preventing monocyte influx into the lungs. Confirmation of the bone marrow origin was obtained in mice labeled after x-irradiation with partial bone marrow shielding: labeled pulmonary macrophages were found in the exposed lungs. In all experiments, the labeling indices were identical in the two macrophage populations isolated. These results show that the influx of monocytes is the source of cell renewal for the pulmonary macrophages. No indications for an interstitial division or maturation compartment in the lung were found. Quantitation of the efflux of labeled monocytes from the blood, and the number of labeled pulmonary macrophages, showed that in the steady state about 15% of the monocytes leaving the circulation become pulmonary macrophages and that the turnover time of pulmonary macrophages is approximately equal to 27 d.", "contents": "Origin, Kinetics, and characteristics of pulmonary macrophages in the normal steady state. Pulmonary macrophages of mice in the steady state were isolated by lavage with PBS containing EDTA and subsequent enzymatic digestion of tissue with pronase and DNA-ase. By this method, the total pulmonary macrophage population was obtained in two cell suspensions, one with a pure population of pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) and the other with a mixed population of pulmonary alveolar and pulmonary tissue macrophages (PTM). The morphological, cytochemical, and functional characteristics of both PAM and PTM were like those of mature tissue macrophages except for the presence of C3 receptors. These receptors were almost absent on PAM and present on a larger number of cells in the mixed population of PAM and PTM. The total pulmonary macrophage population of mice in the steady state is approximately equal to 2 x 10(6), of which about 93% are PAM and about 7% are PTM. In labeling experiments with 3H-thymidine, the low in vitro labeling indices (less than 3%) for both PAM and the mixture of PAM and PTM, showed that both are essentially nondividing cells. In vivo labeling studies showed an increase in the number of labeled macrophages that can only be attributed to labeled monocytes migrating into the lungs. Additional evidence was provided by a decrease in the labeling indices of pulmonary macrophages when mice were treated with hydrocortisone acetate, which causes a severe monocytopenia, thus preventing monocyte influx into the lungs. Confirmation of the bone marrow origin was obtained in mice labeled after x-irradiation with partial bone marrow shielding: labeled pulmonary macrophages were found in the exposed lungs. In all experiments, the labeling indices were identical in the two macrophage populations isolated. These results show that the influx of monocytes is the source of cell renewal for the pulmonary macrophages. No indications for an interstitial division or maturation compartment in the lung were found. Quantitation of the efflux of labeled monocytes from the blood, and the number of labeled pulmonary macrophages, showed that in the steady state about 15% of the monocytes leaving the circulation become pulmonary macrophages and that the turnover time of pulmonary macrophages is approximately equal to 27 d.", "PMID": 448291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8538", "title": "In vitro metabolism of the anabolic drug zeranol.", "content": "The anabolic drug zeranol, which is employed for livestock breeding was studied for its metabolic fate in vitro using isolated microsomal preparations from bovine liver, uterus, and muscle. Diethylstilbestrol and 17 beta-estradiol were investigated simultaneously for comparison. The structure of the zeranol metabolite was examined by means of TLC as well as GC-MS analysis. A sensitive color reaction after two-dimensional TLC described earlier for zeranol determination in veal samples is proposed for the detection of the zeranol metabolite zearalanone and the mycotoxin zearalenone. The estrogenic activity of the three mycoestrogens, understood as their binding capacity to the cytoplasmic estrogen receptor protein from bovine uterus, is measured using the estrogen receptor test. The data suggest that zeranol is biotransformed in vitro to a less active estrogen which has a marked similarity to the mycotoxin zearalenone. Further investigations are necessary to quantitate the biotransformation in vitro as well as to evaluate the toxicity of the drug metabolite.", "contents": "In vitro metabolism of the anabolic drug zeranol. The anabolic drug zeranol, which is employed for livestock breeding was studied for its metabolic fate in vitro using isolated microsomal preparations from bovine liver, uterus, and muscle. Diethylstilbestrol and 17 beta-estradiol were investigated simultaneously for comparison. The structure of the zeranol metabolite was examined by means of TLC as well as GC-MS analysis. A sensitive color reaction after two-dimensional TLC described earlier for zeranol determination in veal samples is proposed for the detection of the zeranol metabolite zearalanone and the mycotoxin zearalenone. The estrogenic activity of the three mycoestrogens, understood as their binding capacity to the cytoplasmic estrogen receptor protein from bovine uterus, is measured using the estrogen receptor test. The data suggest that zeranol is biotransformed in vitro to a less active estrogen which has a marked similarity to the mycotoxin zearalenone. Further investigations are necessary to quantitate the biotransformation in vitro as well as to evaluate the toxicity of the drug metabolite.", "PMID": 448258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8539", "title": "Friend erythroleukemia antigen. A viral antigen specified by spleen focus-forming virus and differentiation antigen controlled by the Fv-2 locus.", "content": "Serum from C57BL/6 (B6) mice hyperimmunized with NB-tropic Friend virus complex (FV) was cytotoxic for FV-induced erythroleukemic spleen cells and B6 Friend-murine leukemia virus (F-MuLV) lymphoma cells. Cytotoxic activity for erythroleukemia cells remained after repeated absorption of B6 anti-FV antiserum with Friend-Moloney-Rauscher MuLV lymphoma cells but was removed by absorption with erythroleukemia cells induced by FV or Rauscher Vrus. This serologic test system identified a previously unrecognized cell-surface antigen of mouse leukemia, designated Friend Erythroleukemia (FE) antigen to signify its appearance as a determinant of virally induced erythroleukemic differentiation. FE antigen was not detected on 15 transplanted or primary hematopoietic neoplasms, nor was it detected on cells infected with ecotropic, xenotropic, or dualtropic MuLV isolates in tissue culture. Two spleen focus-forming virus (SFFV) nonproducer cells of rats and one of mice express FE antigen in amounts comparable to primary erythroleukemia cells. Absorption tests with FE typing serum indicated that FE antigen was expressed on bone marrow and spleen but not thymus, lymph node, or peripheral blood of uninfected AKR, BALB/c, DBA, and SWR mice; all five tissues from B6 and C57L were negative. Quantitiative absorption tests indicated that the expression of FE antigen, though much lower than on erythroleukemic cells, was greatest on fetal liver, less on bone marrow, and lowest on spleen from BALB and SWR mice. Treatment of BALB/c or SWR fetal liver, bone marrow, spleen, thymus, or lymph node cells with FE typing serum did not result in significant lysis. These observations are consistent with the interpretation that FE antigen is expressed by a minor cell population present in fetal liver, bone marrow, and spleen. Expression of FE antigen, determined by absorption with bone marrow cells, cosegregated with inheritance of the Fv-2s allele in the 17 inbred, 7 recombinant inbred, and 4 congenic mouse strains tested. In summary, the FE antigenic system identifies a cell-surface determinant that has the properties of a SFFV-specified antigen and hematopoietic differentiation alloantigen controlled by the Fv-2 locus. The similarity of FE antigen to Abelson antigen may provide insight into the pathogenic properties of defective transforming MuLV.", "contents": "Friend erythroleukemia antigen. A viral antigen specified by spleen focus-forming virus and differentiation antigen controlled by the Fv-2 locus. Serum from C57BL/6 (B6) mice hyperimmunized with NB-tropic Friend virus complex (FV) was cytotoxic for FV-induced erythroleukemic spleen cells and B6 Friend-murine leukemia virus (F-MuLV) lymphoma cells. Cytotoxic activity for erythroleukemia cells remained after repeated absorption of B6 anti-FV antiserum with Friend-Moloney-Rauscher MuLV lymphoma cells but was removed by absorption with erythroleukemia cells induced by FV or Rauscher Vrus. This serologic test system identified a previously unrecognized cell-surface antigen of mouse leukemia, designated Friend Erythroleukemia (FE) antigen to signify its appearance as a determinant of virally induced erythroleukemic differentiation. FE antigen was not detected on 15 transplanted or primary hematopoietic neoplasms, nor was it detected on cells infected with ecotropic, xenotropic, or dualtropic MuLV isolates in tissue culture. Two spleen focus-forming virus (SFFV) nonproducer cells of rats and one of mice express FE antigen in amounts comparable to primary erythroleukemia cells. Absorption tests with FE typing serum indicated that FE antigen was expressed on bone marrow and spleen but not thymus, lymph node, or peripheral blood of uninfected AKR, BALB/c, DBA, and SWR mice; all five tissues from B6 and C57L were negative. Quantitiative absorption tests indicated that the expression of FE antigen, though much lower than on erythroleukemic cells, was greatest on fetal liver, less on bone marrow, and lowest on spleen from BALB and SWR mice. Treatment of BALB/c or SWR fetal liver, bone marrow, spleen, thymus, or lymph node cells with FE typing serum did not result in significant lysis. These observations are consistent with the interpretation that FE antigen is expressed by a minor cell population present in fetal liver, bone marrow, and spleen. Expression of FE antigen, determined by absorption with bone marrow cells, cosegregated with inheritance of the Fv-2s allele in the 17 inbred, 7 recombinant inbred, and 4 congenic mouse strains tested. In summary, the FE antigenic system identifies a cell-surface determinant that has the properties of a SFFV-specified antigen and hematopoietic differentiation alloantigen controlled by the Fv-2 locus. The similarity of FE antigen to Abelson antigen may provide insight into the pathogenic properties of defective transforming MuLV.", "PMID": 448285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8540", "title": "Cytokinetic analysis of the impaired proliferative response of peripheral lymphocytes from aged humans to phytohemagglutinin.", "content": "The effect of donor age on the rate of cell entry into the proliferating pool and subsequent cell cycle duration for peripheral lymphocytes stimulated by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) were examined by using the bromodeoxyuridine incorporation-differential staining technique. Distribution curves for the appearance of metaphase cells in successive generations as a function of culture time were obtained and analyzed both graphically and by a computer simulation model. Peripheral lymphocytes from aged individuals (approximately 75 yr) were stimulated by PHA at approximately one-half of the rate of peripheral lymphocytes from young individuals (approximately 21 yr). Subsequent cell-cycle durations were estimated to range from 10.0 to 25.0 h for aged individual lymphocyte cultures and 10.6-15.6 h for young individual lymphocyte cultures. The possible significance of these findings to aging in general is discussed.", "contents": "Cytokinetic analysis of the impaired proliferative response of peripheral lymphocytes from aged humans to phytohemagglutinin. The effect of donor age on the rate of cell entry into the proliferating pool and subsequent cell cycle duration for peripheral lymphocytes stimulated by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) were examined by using the bromodeoxyuridine incorporation-differential staining technique. Distribution curves for the appearance of metaphase cells in successive generations as a function of culture time were obtained and analyzed both graphically and by a computer simulation model. Peripheral lymphocytes from aged individuals (approximately 75 yr) were stimulated by PHA at approximately one-half of the rate of peripheral lymphocytes from young individuals (approximately 21 yr). Subsequent cell-cycle durations were estimated to range from 10.0 to 25.0 h for aged individual lymphocyte cultures and 10.6-15.6 h for young individual lymphocyte cultures. The possible significance of these findings to aging in general is discussed.", "PMID": 448284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8541", "title": "Clinical presentation and management of patients with carcinoma of the lung: a 14-year experience.", "content": "Carcinoma of the lung has been steadily increasing since World War II, and the family physician can now expect to see a greater incidence of the disease in women and persons under age 50 years. The clinical manifestations of carcinoma of the lung are described, based on a 14-year experience at the University of Michigan. Diagnostic procedures are outlined. The preferred treatment for carcinoma of the lung is pulmonary resection, combined, in appropriate situations, with mediastinal lymph node irradiation. Survival is dependent to some degree on the tumor cell type as well as the extent of metastasis. A new immunotherapeutic adjunct to resection and irradiation is being developed. Five to ten-year survivors of resections for lung cancer and normal persons serve as lymphocyte donors. Transfer factor is extracted from these lymphocytes and injected into selected patients who have recently had resections for lung cancer. It is too soon to evaluate the results of this experiment, but it is hoped that immunotherapy using transfer factor will be of help to patients with carcinoma of the lung.", "contents": "Clinical presentation and management of patients with carcinoma of the lung: a 14-year experience. Carcinoma of the lung has been steadily increasing since World War II, and the family physician can now expect to see a greater incidence of the disease in women and persons under age 50 years. The clinical manifestations of carcinoma of the lung are described, based on a 14-year experience at the University of Michigan. Diagnostic procedures are outlined. The preferred treatment for carcinoma of the lung is pulmonary resection, combined, in appropriate situations, with mediastinal lymph node irradiation. Survival is dependent to some degree on the tumor cell type as well as the extent of metastasis. A new immunotherapeutic adjunct to resection and irradiation is being developed. Five to ten-year survivors of resections for lung cancer and normal persons serve as lymphocyte donors. Transfer factor is extracted from these lymphocytes and injected into selected patients who have recently had resections for lung cancer. It is too soon to evaluate the results of this experiment, but it is hoped that immunotherapy using transfer factor will be of help to patients with carcinoma of the lung.", "PMID": 448296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8542", "title": "Indications and risk-benefit of mammography.", "content": "Mammography has recently undergone a striking improvement in image detail along with a corresponding decrease in radiation exposure. Although the data of the Breast Cancer Detection Demonstration Project is tainted by an absence of a control group of women, the high rate of detection of early cancer by mammography alone in the participants above or below age 50 years implies that mammography is useful in detecting breast cancer before the appearance of a palpable mass. Early diagnosis results in higher survival rates. Mammographers should continuously seek the least radiation exposure consistent with a sharp image. Given present knowledge of its benefit and potential risk, mammography should be performed when a significant suspicion of breast cancer exists at any age, but it should not be performed under age 35 years without such suspicion. A baseline mammogram should be performed in the 35 to 40-year age group. The periodicity of survey mammography in asymptomatic women under 50 years should be determined by analysis of relative risk factors for breast cancer. For asymptomatic women age 50 years and older, periodic screening mammography is sound medical practice.", "contents": "Indications and risk-benefit of mammography. Mammography has recently undergone a striking improvement in image detail along with a corresponding decrease in radiation exposure. Although the data of the Breast Cancer Detection Demonstration Project is tainted by an absence of a control group of women, the high rate of detection of early cancer by mammography alone in the participants above or below age 50 years implies that mammography is useful in detecting breast cancer before the appearance of a palpable mass. Early diagnosis results in higher survival rates. Mammographers should continuously seek the least radiation exposure consistent with a sharp image. Given present knowledge of its benefit and potential risk, mammography should be performed when a significant suspicion of breast cancer exists at any age, but it should not be performed under age 35 years without such suspicion. A baseline mammogram should be performed in the 35 to 40-year age group. The periodicity of survey mammography in asymptomatic women under 50 years should be determined by analysis of relative risk factors for breast cancer. For asymptomatic women age 50 years and older, periodic screening mammography is sound medical practice.", "PMID": 448297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8543", "title": "Applicability of crisis intervention in family practice.", "content": "Crisis intervention is a specialized approach useful to family physicians who frequently are called upon to deal with patients in psychosocial crisis. The use of a systematic method of evaluation and treatment will aid physicians in helping patients with their problems in a fashion that is constructive for both patient and physician. A crisis may occur as a result of a change in an important social role or relationship. Appropriate intervention which is immediately available can result in a marked reduction in physical and emotional symptoms that are stress related. This paper reviews the need for crisis intervention, its historical development, theory and technique, and several examples of crises familiar to all family physicians. A case illustration is presented as a demonstration of crisis intervention in family practice.", "contents": "Applicability of crisis intervention in family practice. Crisis intervention is a specialized approach useful to family physicians who frequently are called upon to deal with patients in psychosocial crisis. The use of a systematic method of evaluation and treatment will aid physicians in helping patients with their problems in a fashion that is constructive for both patient and physician. A crisis may occur as a result of a change in an important social role or relationship. Appropriate intervention which is immediately available can result in a marked reduction in physical and emotional symptoms that are stress related. This paper reviews the need for crisis intervention, its historical development, theory and technique, and several examples of crises familiar to all family physicians. A case illustration is presented as a demonstration of crisis intervention in family practice.", "PMID": 448299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8544", "title": "Accidents as a symptom of alcohol abuse.", "content": "This review of the literature on the association between accidents and alcohol abuse presents data from a variety of studies performed in many of the industrial nations of the world. These studies demonstrate a consistent relationship between alcohol abuse and accidents. The family physician should be aware of this association and utilize it in the identification and treatment of his alcoholic patients.", "contents": "Accidents as a symptom of alcohol abuse. This review of the literature on the association between accidents and alcohol abuse presents data from a variety of studies performed in many of the industrial nations of the world. These studies demonstrate a consistent relationship between alcohol abuse and accidents. The family physician should be aware of this association and utilize it in the identification and treatment of his alcoholic patients.", "PMID": 448298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8545", "title": "Does continuing medical education improve the quality of medical care? A look at the evidence.", "content": "Although continuing education has a long tradition within the medical profession, mandated continuing medical education is of very recent origin. The conceptual framework used to justify continuing medical education is that it exposes physicians to new knowledge, changes physician behavior, and favorably alters patient outcomes. Considerable evidence exists that physician knowledge can be increased, and that behavior can be changed, but there is very little to show an effect on patient outcomes. The effectiveness of continuing medical education is further clouded by such issues as consumerism, licensure politics, and professional standards review organization legislation. Family physicians should have a role in determining the outcome of the continuing medical education debate, as participants, as policy-setters, and as informed critics.", "contents": "Does continuing medical education improve the quality of medical care? A look at the evidence. Although continuing education has a long tradition within the medical profession, mandated continuing medical education is of very recent origin. The conceptual framework used to justify continuing medical education is that it exposes physicians to new knowledge, changes physician behavior, and favorably alters patient outcomes. Considerable evidence exists that physician knowledge can be increased, and that behavior can be changed, but there is very little to show an effect on patient outcomes. The effectiveness of continuing medical education is further clouded by such issues as consumerism, licensure politics, and professional standards review organization legislation. Family physicians should have a role in determining the outcome of the continuing medical education debate, as participants, as policy-setters, and as informed critics.", "PMID": 448301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8546", "title": "Family care in a family practice group.", "content": "A fundamental claim of family medicine is that the family physician treats the \"whole\" family--an ideological principle that guides undergraduate and residency education. Using archival data obtained from a random sample of 500 patients in one group of family physicians, this study analyzed the extent to which this principle is carried out in practice. Physicians trained in family practice residency programs were compared with their colleagues. Family types and marital stability were also examined. Results indicate that in only 28 percent of families (excluding single person households) were all family members seen by the same family physician. This occurred despite the high preponderance and stability of traditional nuclear families in the practice. There was no significant difference in this rate between graduates and nongraduates of approved family practice residency programs.", "contents": "Family care in a family practice group. A fundamental claim of family medicine is that the family physician treats the \"whole\" family--an ideological principle that guides undergraduate and residency education. Using archival data obtained from a random sample of 500 patients in one group of family physicians, this study analyzed the extent to which this principle is carried out in practice. Physicians trained in family practice residency programs were compared with their colleagues. Family types and marital stability were also examined. Results indicate that in only 28 percent of families (excluding single person households) were all family members seen by the same family physician. This occurred despite the high preponderance and stability of traditional nuclear families in the practice. There was no significant difference in this rate between graduates and nongraduates of approved family practice residency programs.", "PMID": 448302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8547", "title": "Regeneration and compartments in Drosophila.", "content": "A clonal analysis was performed in order to study the process of regeneration in wounded wing discs of Drosophila. Regeneration was induced either by cutting the disc in situ, or by shifting gynandromorphic larvae whose male tissue was hemizygous for a temperature-sensitive cell lethal to the restrictive temperature. Fast growing M+ clones, labelled with y and/or mwh, were produced by X-irradiation of the following genotypes: y; scJ4(y+)M(3)i55/mwh jv M+ (series I), and l(1)ts 504 sn3 l(1)ts 5697/ In(1)wvC; M(3)i55/mwh M+ (series II). The clones were induced either before or after the experimental lesion. Clones initiated one day prior to the lesion were able to cross compartment boundaries whereas clones initiated one day after the lesion did not do so. It is concluded that cells involved in the process of regeneration lose their compartmental commitment, but that later on the growing population of cells again becomes subdivided into the same compartments.", "contents": "Regeneration and compartments in Drosophila. A clonal analysis was performed in order to study the process of regeneration in wounded wing discs of Drosophila. Regeneration was induced either by cutting the disc in situ, or by shifting gynandromorphic larvae whose male tissue was hemizygous for a temperature-sensitive cell lethal to the restrictive temperature. Fast growing M+ clones, labelled with y and/or mwh, were produced by X-irradiation of the following genotypes: y; scJ4(y+)M(3)i55/mwh jv M+ (series I), and l(1)ts 504 sn3 l(1)ts 5697/ In(1)wvC; M(3)i55/mwh M+ (series II). The clones were induced either before or after the experimental lesion. Clones initiated one day prior to the lesion were able to cross compartment boundaries whereas clones initiated one day after the lesion did not do so. It is concluded that cells involved in the process of regeneration lose their compartmental commitment, but that later on the growing population of cells again becomes subdivided into the same compartments.", "PMID": 448270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8548", "title": "Mutagenicity test with saccharin in the male mouse.", "content": "The ability of saccharin to induce chromosome aberrations in mammals was tested in male mice injected i.p. with 1, 2, or 4 g saccharin per kg body weight or receiving during a 100 day period 20 g of saccharin per liter of drinking water. Two tests on somatic cells, induction of chromosomal aberrations in bone marrow cells and of micronuclei in polychromatic erythrocytes, and two tests on germ cells, the spermatocyte test on treated males and the dominant lethality test, yielded all negative results. It is concluded that the positive findings reported in the literature were probably due to the mutagenic activity of saccharin impurities.", "contents": "Mutagenicity test with saccharin in the male mouse. The ability of saccharin to induce chromosome aberrations in mammals was tested in male mice injected i.p. with 1, 2, or 4 g saccharin per kg body weight or receiving during a 100 day period 20 g of saccharin per liter of drinking water. Two tests on somatic cells, induction of chromosomal aberrations in bone marrow cells and of micronuclei in polychromatic erythrocytes, and two tests on germ cells, the spermatocyte test on treated males and the dominant lethality test, yielded all negative results. It is concluded that the positive findings reported in the literature were probably due to the mutagenic activity of saccharin impurities.", "PMID": 448252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8549", "title": "Biological activity in vitro of chrysotile compared to its quarried parent rock (platy serpentine).", "content": "Crushed serpentine rock, quarried at Rockville, Maryland, has been used in large quantities for road and playground surfacing. The rock consists essentially of the fibrous serpentine mineral chrysotile (asbestos) and platy serpentines. In vitro bioassay in P338D1, a malignant mouse macrophage-like cell line, show that chrysotile is cytotoxic while the platy serpentines are not.", "contents": "Biological activity in vitro of chrysotile compared to its quarried parent rock (platy serpentine). Crushed serpentine rock, quarried at Rockville, Maryland, has been used in large quantities for road and playground surfacing. The rock consists essentially of the fibrous serpentine mineral chrysotile (asbestos) and platy serpentines. In vitro bioassay in P338D1, a malignant mouse macrophage-like cell line, show that chrysotile is cytotoxic while the platy serpentines are not.", "PMID": 448251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8550", "title": "Prescribing patterns in a family medicine residency program.", "content": "The methodology and results of a concurrent review of prescribing practices in a family practice residency are discussed. A clinical pharmacist reviewed copies of prescriptions returned to him during a six-month period, and he tabulated information to allow comparisons of clinic prescribing patterns with national patterns. Additionally, peer group comparisons within the residency were made. It was found that tricyclic antidepressants were prescribed more frequently than anxiolytic drugs, a distinct difference when compared to national prescribing reports. Peer group comparisons showed apparent autonomy in prescribing habits among residents and faculty, and the drug \"repertoire\" and number of prescriptions written increased as the number of years in the residency progressed.", "contents": "Prescribing patterns in a family medicine residency program. The methodology and results of a concurrent review of prescribing practices in a family practice residency are discussed. A clinical pharmacist reviewed copies of prescriptions returned to him during a six-month period, and he tabulated information to allow comparisons of clinic prescribing patterns with national patterns. Additionally, peer group comparisons within the residency were made. It was found that tricyclic antidepressants were prescribed more frequently than anxiolytic drugs, a distinct difference when compared to national prescribing reports. Peer group comparisons showed apparent autonomy in prescribing habits among residents and faculty, and the drug \"repertoire\" and number of prescriptions written increased as the number of years in the residency progressed.", "PMID": 448300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8551", "title": "The impact of disease prevalence on the predictive value of laboratory tests in primary care.", "content": "The predictive value of any diagnostic process is related to the sensitivity and specificity of the test and the prevalence of the underlying pathology for which the diagnostic testing is accomplished. Prevalence is the most important, but least understood, factor affecting the usefulness of a test result. For each accomplished test which is not helpful in either supporting a diagnosis or assisting in a differential diagnosis, the health care cost is increased without a corresponding benefit in the value of the information obtained.", "contents": "The impact of disease prevalence on the predictive value of laboratory tests in primary care. The predictive value of any diagnostic process is related to the sensitivity and specificity of the test and the prevalence of the underlying pathology for which the diagnostic testing is accomplished. Prevalence is the most important, but least understood, factor affecting the usefulness of a test result. For each accomplished test which is not helpful in either supporting a diagnosis or assisting in a differential diagnosis, the health care cost is increased without a corresponding benefit in the value of the information obtained.", "PMID": 448303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8552", "title": "The relationship of health beliefs and a postcard reminder to influenza vaccination.", "content": "The relationship of certain health beliefs to influenza vaccination and the effect of a postcard reminder on vaccination rates was studied among 232 high-risk patients. In agreement with the Health Belief Model tested, the patients vaccinated believed influenza to be more serious, believed they were more susceptible to influenza, and believed the vaccine to be more efficacious than did patients not vaccinated. Those not vaccinated were less satisfied with their medical care and felt the vaccine was more expensive than those vaccinated. A postcard reminding patients of influenza vaccination was an effective way to increase the vaccination rate. Patients receiving the card had a 59.7 percent vaccination rate compared to a 30.0 percent rate among those not receiving the postcard. This study suggests that a reminder postcard is an effective means to promote influenza vaccination and that these beliefs are important determinants of vaccination behavior.", "contents": "The relationship of health beliefs and a postcard reminder to influenza vaccination. The relationship of certain health beliefs to influenza vaccination and the effect of a postcard reminder on vaccination rates was studied among 232 high-risk patients. In agreement with the Health Belief Model tested, the patients vaccinated believed influenza to be more serious, believed they were more susceptible to influenza, and believed the vaccine to be more efficacious than did patients not vaccinated. Those not vaccinated were less satisfied with their medical care and felt the vaccine was more expensive than those vaccinated. A postcard reminding patients of influenza vaccination was an effective way to increase the vaccination rate. Patients receiving the card had a 59.7 percent vaccination rate compared to a 30.0 percent rate among those not receiving the postcard. This study suggests that a reminder postcard is an effective means to promote influenza vaccination and that these beliefs are important determinants of vaccination behavior.", "PMID": 448304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8553", "title": "Cryotherapy of the cervix.", "content": "Cryotherapy is most useful in treating mild and moderate dysplasia of the ectocervix and symptomatic benign chronic cervicitis. It has almost replaced electrocauterization of the cervix and has reduced the need for conization. Cytology and colposcopy are essential in the selection of patients for this procedure and in evaluating their response to therapy.", "contents": "Cryotherapy of the cervix. Cryotherapy is most useful in treating mild and moderate dysplasia of the ectocervix and symptomatic benign chronic cervicitis. It has almost replaced electrocauterization of the cervix and has reduced the need for conization. Cytology and colposcopy are essential in the selection of patients for this procedure and in evaluating their response to therapy.", "PMID": 448310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8554", "title": "Ultrastructure of normals and castrates and the effects of testosterone and ultraviolet (UVL-B) irradiation on scrotal skin of rats.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the testosterone dependent epidermal melanocyte system of the scrotal skin of normals and castrates, with and without testosterone replacement therapy, and UVL-B (280-315 nm) radiation in black Long Evans rats is reported. UVL-B increases melanocyte activity, melanosome forming apparatus, (size of Golgi zone and RER, and quantity of cytoplasmic vesicles, dendrites, and stages of melanosomes) in normals and in castrates. Testosterone replacement therapy to castrates is not a prerequisite for stimulation by UVL-B, but it enhances the effects of UVL-B without restoring normalcy as melanosome packaging into complexes predominates. After UVL-B stimulation of normals or castrates, melanocyte dendrites are observed more often. Melanocyte dendrites of skin of castrated rats are observed less often than in normals, but with testosterone replacement therapy, the dendrites become more numerous. Melanosomes donated to keratinocytes are mostly located as singles in normals and as complexes in castrates. After UVL-B, castration, or testosterone replacement therapy, the melanosomes are packaged in keratinocytes in complexes larger than in normals. In the epidermis of long term castrates (9-109 days), non-specific clear cells are observed and Langerhans cells containing melanosomes; we did not observe them in normals. Melanocytes of castrates have a reduced melanosome forming apparatus. The dermis of castrates contains many dermal melanocytes in the superficial dermis with melanosomes in several stages of formation. These cells are not apparent in normals at this location in the dermis. Testosterone replacement therapy and/or UVL-B administered to castrates does not restore the epidermal melanocyte system nor the dermis to precastration ultrastructural appearance; castration has a permanent altering effect as melanosomes are packaged into complexes.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of normals and castrates and the effects of testosterone and ultraviolet (UVL-B) irradiation on scrotal skin of rats. The ultrastructure of the testosterone dependent epidermal melanocyte system of the scrotal skin of normals and castrates, with and without testosterone replacement therapy, and UVL-B (280-315 nm) radiation in black Long Evans rats is reported. UVL-B increases melanocyte activity, melanosome forming apparatus, (size of Golgi zone and RER, and quantity of cytoplasmic vesicles, dendrites, and stages of melanosomes) in normals and in castrates. Testosterone replacement therapy to castrates is not a prerequisite for stimulation by UVL-B, but it enhances the effects of UVL-B without restoring normalcy as melanosome packaging into complexes predominates. After UVL-B stimulation of normals or castrates, melanocyte dendrites are observed more often. Melanocyte dendrites of skin of castrated rats are observed less often than in normals, but with testosterone replacement therapy, the dendrites become more numerous. Melanosomes donated to keratinocytes are mostly located as singles in normals and as complexes in castrates. After UVL-B, castration, or testosterone replacement therapy, the melanosomes are packaged in keratinocytes in complexes larger than in normals. In the epidermis of long term castrates (9-109 days), non-specific clear cells are observed and Langerhans cells containing melanosomes; we did not observe them in normals. Melanocytes of castrates have a reduced melanosome forming apparatus. The dermis of castrates contains many dermal melanocytes in the superficial dermis with melanosomes in several stages of formation. These cells are not apparent in normals at this location in the dermis. Testosterone replacement therapy and/or UVL-B administered to castrates does not restore the epidermal melanocyte system nor the dermis to precastration ultrastructural appearance; castration has a permanent altering effect as melanosomes are packaged into complexes.", "PMID": 448324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8555", "title": "Effects of ouabain on fluid transport and electrical properties of Necturus gallbladder. Evidence in favor of a neutral basolateral sodium transport mechanism.", "content": "Net fluid transport (Jv) and electrical properties of the cell membranes and paracellular pathway of Necturus gallbladder epithelium were studied before and after the addition of ouabain (10(-4) M) to the serosal bathing medium. The glycoside inhibited Jv by 70% in 15 min and by 100% in 30 min. In contrast, the potentials across both cell membranes did not decrease significantly until 20 min of exposure to ouabain. At 30 min, the basolateral membrane potential (Vcs) fell only by ca 7 mV. If basolateral Na transport were electrogenic, with a coupling ratio (Na:K) of 3:2, the reductions of Vcs at 15 and 30 min should be 12--15 and 17--21 mV, respectively. Thus, we conclude that the mechanism of Na transport from the cells to the serosal bathing solution is not electrogenic under normal transport conditions. The slow depolarization observed in ouabain is caused by a fall of intracellular K concentration, and by a decrease in basolateral cell membrane K permeability. Prolonged exposure to ouabain results also in an increase in paracellular K selectivity, with no change of P Na/P Cl.", "contents": "Effects of ouabain on fluid transport and electrical properties of Necturus gallbladder. Evidence in favor of a neutral basolateral sodium transport mechanism. Net fluid transport (Jv) and electrical properties of the cell membranes and paracellular pathway of Necturus gallbladder epithelium were studied before and after the addition of ouabain (10(-4) M) to the serosal bathing medium. The glycoside inhibited Jv by 70% in 15 min and by 100% in 30 min. In contrast, the potentials across both cell membranes did not decrease significantly until 20 min of exposure to ouabain. At 30 min, the basolateral membrane potential (Vcs) fell only by ca 7 mV. If basolateral Na transport were electrogenic, with a coupling ratio (Na:K) of 3:2, the reductions of Vcs at 15 and 30 min should be 12--15 and 17--21 mV, respectively. Thus, we conclude that the mechanism of Na transport from the cells to the serosal bathing solution is not electrogenic under normal transport conditions. The slow depolarization observed in ouabain is caused by a fall of intracellular K concentration, and by a decrease in basolateral cell membrane K permeability. Prolonged exposure to ouabain results also in an increase in paracellular K selectivity, with no change of P Na/P Cl.", "PMID": 448325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8556", "title": "Inactivation of the alamethicin-induced conductance caused by quaternary ammonium ions and local anesthetics.", "content": "Long alkyl chain quaternary ammonium ions (QA), the local anesthetics (LA) tetracaine and lidocaine, imipramine, and pancuronium cause inactivation of the alamethicin-induced conductance in lipid bilayer membranes. The alamethicin-induced conductance undergoes inactivation only when these amphipathic compounds are added to the side containing alamethicin. The concentration of QA required to cause a given amount of inactivation depends on the length of the hydrocarbon chain and follows the sequence C9 greater than C10 greater than C12 greater than C16. LA and imipramine, in contrast to QA or pancuronium, are able to promote appreciable inactivation only if the pH of the alamethicin-free side is equal to or lower than the pK of these compounds. The membrane permeability to QA, LA, or imipramine is directly proportional to the alamethicin-induced conductance and is larger than the one for potassium. The observed steady state and time-course of the inactivation are well described by a model similar to that proposed by Heyer et al. (1976. J. Gen. Physiol. 67:703--729) and extended for any value of the diffuse double layer potential and for LA and imipramine. In this model QA, LA, or imipramine are able to permeate through the membrane only when the alamethicin-induced conductance is turned on. The amphipathic compounds then bind to the other membrane surface, changing the transmembrane potential and turning the conductance off. For a given concentration of QA, LA, or imipramine the extent of inactivation depends on two factors: first, the binding characteristics of these compounds to the membrane surface and second, their ability to permeate through the membrane when the alamethicin-induced conductance is turned on. The several possible mechanisms of permeation of the amphipathic molecules tested are discussed.", "contents": "Inactivation of the alamethicin-induced conductance caused by quaternary ammonium ions and local anesthetics. Long alkyl chain quaternary ammonium ions (QA), the local anesthetics (LA) tetracaine and lidocaine, imipramine, and pancuronium cause inactivation of the alamethicin-induced conductance in lipid bilayer membranes. The alamethicin-induced conductance undergoes inactivation only when these amphipathic compounds are added to the side containing alamethicin. The concentration of QA required to cause a given amount of inactivation depends on the length of the hydrocarbon chain and follows the sequence C9 greater than C10 greater than C12 greater than C16. LA and imipramine, in contrast to QA or pancuronium, are able to promote appreciable inactivation only if the pH of the alamethicin-free side is equal to or lower than the pK of these compounds. The membrane permeability to QA, LA, or imipramine is directly proportional to the alamethicin-induced conductance and is larger than the one for potassium. The observed steady state and time-course of the inactivation are well described by a model similar to that proposed by Heyer et al. (1976. J. Gen. Physiol. 67:703--729) and extended for any value of the diffuse double layer potential and for LA and imipramine. In this model QA, LA, or imipramine are able to permeate through the membrane only when the alamethicin-induced conductance is turned on. The amphipathic compounds then bind to the other membrane surface, changing the transmembrane potential and turning the conductance off. For a given concentration of QA, LA, or imipramine the extent of inactivation depends on two factors: first, the binding characteristics of these compounds to the membrane surface and second, their ability to permeate through the membrane when the alamethicin-induced conductance is turned on. The several possible mechanisms of permeation of the amphipathic molecules tested are discussed.", "PMID": 448326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8557", "title": "Transmembrane effects of irreversible inhibitors of anion transport in red blood cells. Evidence for mobile transport sites.", "content": "Experiments were designed to determine whether band 3, the anion transport protein of the red cell membrane, contains a mobile element that acts as a carrier to move the anions across a permeability barrier. The transport site-specific, nonpenetrating irreversible inhibitor 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate (DIDS) was found to be effective only when applied extracellularly. It was used to sequester transport sites on the extracellular side of the membrane in intact cells. The membranes were then coverted into inside-out vesicles. The number of anion transport sites available on the cytoplasmic side of the vesicle membranes was then estimated by measuring the binding of N-(-4-azido-2-nitrophenyl)-2-aminoethyl-sulfonate (NAP-taurine), a photoreactive probe. Pretreatment with DIDS from the extracullular side substantially reduced the binding of NAP-taurine at the cytoplasmic side. Since NAP-taurine does not appear to penetrate into the intravesicular (normally extracellular) space, a transmembrane effect is apparently involved. About 70% of the DIDS-sensitive NAP-taurine binding sites are located in band 3, with the remainder largely in a lower molecular weight (band 4) region. A similar pattern of reduction in NAP-taurine binding is produced by high concentrations of Cl-, but this anion has little or no effect in vesicles from cells pretreated with DIDS. Thus the DIDS-modulated sites seem to be capable of binding either NAP-taurine or Cl. It is suggested that band 3 contains a mobile transport element that can be recruited to the extracellular surface by DIDS, thus becoming unavailable to NAP-taurine at the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. The results are consistent with a model of carrier-mediated transport in which the movement of the transport site is associated with a local conformational change in band 3 protein.", "contents": "Transmembrane effects of irreversible inhibitors of anion transport in red blood cells. Evidence for mobile transport sites. Experiments were designed to determine whether band 3, the anion transport protein of the red cell membrane, contains a mobile element that acts as a carrier to move the anions across a permeability barrier. The transport site-specific, nonpenetrating irreversible inhibitor 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate (DIDS) was found to be effective only when applied extracellularly. It was used to sequester transport sites on the extracellular side of the membrane in intact cells. The membranes were then coverted into inside-out vesicles. The number of anion transport sites available on the cytoplasmic side of the vesicle membranes was then estimated by measuring the binding of N-(-4-azido-2-nitrophenyl)-2-aminoethyl-sulfonate (NAP-taurine), a photoreactive probe. Pretreatment with DIDS from the extracullular side substantially reduced the binding of NAP-taurine at the cytoplasmic side. Since NAP-taurine does not appear to penetrate into the intravesicular (normally extracellular) space, a transmembrane effect is apparently involved. About 70% of the DIDS-sensitive NAP-taurine binding sites are located in band 3, with the remainder largely in a lower molecular weight (band 4) region. A similar pattern of reduction in NAP-taurine binding is produced by high concentrations of Cl-, but this anion has little or no effect in vesicles from cells pretreated with DIDS. Thus the DIDS-modulated sites seem to be capable of binding either NAP-taurine or Cl. It is suggested that band 3 contains a mobile transport element that can be recruited to the extracellular surface by DIDS, thus becoming unavailable to NAP-taurine at the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. The results are consistent with a model of carrier-mediated transport in which the movement of the transport site is associated with a local conformational change in band 3 protein.", "PMID": 448327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8558", "title": "Social alienation-personal disorganization assessment in disturbed and normal adolescents.", "content": "Two groups of adolescents seeking psychotherapy (N = 91 and N = 198) and a normative group (N = 112) provided 5-minute verbal behavior protocols which were content analyzed for social alienation-personal disorganization (SA-PD). The data supported the hypothesis that adolescents applying for help in 1974 to 1975 showed greater pathology than those seen in 1972 to 1973. The normative adolescents were significantly healthier than either of the two Adolescent Clinic groups. In the clinic samples, older adolescents were more disturbed than those in the younger ranges. The SA-PD scale is a useful addition to tools available for the assessment of emotional states of adolescents. The data support the idea that there appears to be an increasing severity in the problems presented by adolescents in very recent years.", "contents": "Social alienation-personal disorganization assessment in disturbed and normal adolescents. Two groups of adolescents seeking psychotherapy (N = 91 and N = 198) and a normative group (N = 112) provided 5-minute verbal behavior protocols which were content analyzed for social alienation-personal disorganization (SA-PD). The data supported the hypothesis that adolescents applying for help in 1974 to 1975 showed greater pathology than those seen in 1972 to 1973. The normative adolescents were significantly healthier than either of the two Adolescent Clinic groups. In the clinic samples, older adolescents were more disturbed than those in the younger ranges. The SA-PD scale is a useful addition to tools available for the assessment of emotional states of adolescents. The data support the idea that there appears to be an increasing severity in the problems presented by adolescents in very recent years.", "PMID": 448330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8559", "title": "Neuropsychological test performance of normal, learning-disabled, and brain-damaged older children.", "content": "The performance of 75 brain-damaged, learning-disabled, and normal children aged 9 to 14 years was compared on 13 neuropsychological test measures. Analysis of variance, supplemented by t-tests, indicated a significant difference beyond the .01 level on 11 measures and beyond the .05 level on one measure. A discriminant analysis based on weightings of the 13 measures yielded 80 per cent correct classification of subjects, a finding in agreement with the outcome of the multivariate analysis of variance. The results indicated that these psychological measures were individually sensitive to differences among the three categories of subjects and, as a group, were capable of classifying children at a level far exceeding chance. It would appear that neuropsychological variables (brain-sensitive tests) may account for much of the uniqueness in many children with learning disabilities.", "contents": "Neuropsychological test performance of normal, learning-disabled, and brain-damaged older children. The performance of 75 brain-damaged, learning-disabled, and normal children aged 9 to 14 years was compared on 13 neuropsychological test measures. Analysis of variance, supplemented by t-tests, indicated a significant difference beyond the .01 level on 11 measures and beyond the .05 level on one measure. A discriminant analysis based on weightings of the 13 measures yielded 80 per cent correct classification of subjects, a finding in agreement with the outcome of the multivariate analysis of variance. The results indicated that these psychological measures were individually sensitive to differences among the three categories of subjects and, as a group, were capable of classifying children at a level far exceeding chance. It would appear that neuropsychological variables (brain-sensitive tests) may account for much of the uniqueness in many children with learning disabilities.", "PMID": 448332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8560", "title": "Racial and sexual bias in psychiatric diagnosis: psychiatrists and other mental health professionals compared by race, sex, and discipline.", "content": "In a study designed to test for sex- and race-related bias in psychiatric diagnosis, the responses of 173 mental health professionals to four hypothetical patient profiles were analyzed. Minimal racial bias was observed. In some instances, therapists appeared more likely to make judgments biased against patients who were of the same race and sex as themselves. The results support the contention that hysterical and antisocial personality disorders are sex-biased diagnoses. The race of the therapist strongly influenced diagnosis. It is argued that this finding reflects resistance of nonwhite therapists to a majority-group-dominated diagnostic theory. Professional discipline rarely affected diagnosis with the exception that psychiatrists were more prone to diagnose psychosis.", "contents": "Racial and sexual bias in psychiatric diagnosis: psychiatrists and other mental health professionals compared by race, sex, and discipline. In a study designed to test for sex- and race-related bias in psychiatric diagnosis, the responses of 173 mental health professionals to four hypothetical patient profiles were analyzed. Minimal racial bias was observed. In some instances, therapists appeared more likely to make judgments biased against patients who were of the same race and sex as themselves. The results support the contention that hysterical and antisocial personality disorders are sex-biased diagnoses. The race of the therapist strongly influenced diagnosis. It is argued that this finding reflects resistance of nonwhite therapists to a majority-group-dominated diagnostic theory. Professional discipline rarely affected diagnosis with the exception that psychiatrists were more prone to diagnose psychosis.", "PMID": 448333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8561", "title": "Self-inflicted eye injuries and self-inflicted blindness.", "content": "The case of a young man, suffering from schizophrenia, who injured his eyes with his hands and blinded himself, is described, along with his rehabilitation program. The classical and contemporary literature on self-inflicted blindness and self-inflicted eye injuries is reviewed and shows a wide range or psychiatric diagnoses and illustrates the inadequacy of attempting to apply oversimplified psychodynamic explanations. In contrast, the reaction to blindness appears to be relatively uniform, leading to the possibility of using established rehabilitation programs.", "contents": "Self-inflicted eye injuries and self-inflicted blindness. The case of a young man, suffering from schizophrenia, who injured his eyes with his hands and blinded himself, is described, along with his rehabilitation program. The classical and contemporary literature on self-inflicted blindness and self-inflicted eye injuries is reviewed and shows a wide range or psychiatric diagnoses and illustrates the inadequacy of attempting to apply oversimplified psychodynamic explanations. In contrast, the reaction to blindness appears to be relatively uniform, leading to the possibility of using established rehabilitation programs.", "PMID": 448334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8562", "title": "One-session cure of a case of speech anxiety with a 10-year follow-up.", "content": "This paper describes a television reporter suffering from verbal dyscontrol. The patient was treated successfully in one session using cognitive restructuring and Jacobson's technique of progressive muscle relaxation. This resulted in a diminution of anticipatory anxiety and relaxation of his laryngeal muscles, thus allowing him to speak more effectively. A 10-year follow-up revealed no relapse or symptom substitution, but instead, a marked improvement in his announcing ability resulting in steady promotions and success in other areas of his life. The author has had the unique opportunity to observe him on television for a period of 10 years, both prior to and following treatment.", "contents": "One-session cure of a case of speech anxiety with a 10-year follow-up. This paper describes a television reporter suffering from verbal dyscontrol. The patient was treated successfully in one session using cognitive restructuring and Jacobson's technique of progressive muscle relaxation. This resulted in a diminution of anticipatory anxiety and relaxation of his laryngeal muscles, thus allowing him to speak more effectively. A 10-year follow-up revealed no relapse or symptom substitution, but instead, a marked improvement in his announcing ability resulting in steady promotions and success in other areas of his life. The author has had the unique opportunity to observe him on television for a period of 10 years, both prior to and following treatment.", "PMID": 448335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8563", "title": "Dividing \"hysteria\": a preliminary investigation of conversion disorder and psychalgia.", "content": "The longstanding diagnostic controversy over the concept of \"hysteria\" has taken on new significance with the advent and development of the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-III). The problem of defining hysteria is therefore discussed and re-examined. A retrospective study of cases diagnosed as conversion reaction or hysterical neurosis, conversion type was then completed and analyzed. These cases were redefined using DSM-III criteria and were analyzed using a number of demographic and clinical variables. In a comparison of those patients classified as having conversion and those classified as having psychalgia, no significant differences were found. Those patients under the diagnosis of conversion and those carrying the diagnosis psychalgia differed significantly from a control group of patients with random \"neurotic\" diagnosis on five variables: a) symptoms are defensive; b) symptoms are expressive; c) secondary gain; d) previous physical trauma; and e) previous conversion symptoms.", "contents": "Dividing \"hysteria\": a preliminary investigation of conversion disorder and psychalgia. The longstanding diagnostic controversy over the concept of \"hysteria\" has taken on new significance with the advent and development of the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-III). The problem of defining hysteria is therefore discussed and re-examined. A retrospective study of cases diagnosed as conversion reaction or hysterical neurosis, conversion type was then completed and analyzed. These cases were redefined using DSM-III criteria and were analyzed using a number of demographic and clinical variables. In a comparison of those patients classified as having conversion and those classified as having psychalgia, no significant differences were found. Those patients under the diagnosis of conversion and those carrying the diagnosis psychalgia differed significantly from a control group of patients with random \"neurotic\" diagnosis on five variables: a) symptoms are defensive; b) symptoms are expressive; c) secondary gain; d) previous physical trauma; and e) previous conversion symptoms.", "PMID": 448337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8564", "title": "Single case study. Pseudodementia and mania.", "content": "This case report extends the discussion of pseudodementia into the area of manic behavior. An elderly patient whose manic symptoms are considered to be an early sign of an organic brain syndrome should be given timely repeat evaluations before this diagnosis is allowed to guide treatment. Our case presentation emphasized the paucity of the data base we have to diagnose cognitive and emotional disturbances of the elderly. It is difficult to identify the essential features of cognitive dysfunction associated with primary neuronal degeneration especially in the early stages of the disease. A careful differential diagnostic evaluation is important to eliminate variables such as affective disorders and underlying physical conditions as causes of confusion and cognitive dysfunction in the elderly patient.", "contents": "Single case study. Pseudodementia and mania. This case report extends the discussion of pseudodementia into the area of manic behavior. An elderly patient whose manic symptoms are considered to be an early sign of an organic brain syndrome should be given timely repeat evaluations before this diagnosis is allowed to guide treatment. Our case presentation emphasized the paucity of the data base we have to diagnose cognitive and emotional disturbances of the elderly. It is difficult to identify the essential features of cognitive dysfunction associated with primary neuronal degeneration especially in the early stages of the disease. A careful differential diagnostic evaluation is important to eliminate variables such as affective disorders and underlying physical conditions as causes of confusion and cognitive dysfunction in the elderly patient.", "PMID": 448338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8565", "title": "Neurological, neuropsychological, and behavioral correlates of Klinefelter's syndrome.", "content": "Neuropsychological assessment is a rapidly expanding discipline combining skills from clinical psychology and neurology. Although neuropsychological correlates have been reported for a wide variety of clinical syndromes, little investigation of this kind has been done in the area of genetic abnormalities. The present case study concerned a child with a variant of Klinefelter's syndrome, genotype XXYY. Results of extensive neurological, psychological, and neuropsychological evaluations are presented and discussed. In addition, educational achievement and personality correlates of the syndrome are reported. Combined evaluation from all disciplines presented a picture of diffuse cortical impairment with slightly greater left hemisphere involvement, resulting in retardation. Previously proposed personality correlates of passivity, shyness, and dependency were also in evidence. On recommendation of the treatment team the child was placed in an educable mentally retarded classroom and a 6-month follow-up showed him to be adjusting socially and functioning well in this setting. Although conclusions cannot be drawn from the study of a single case, data such as these may serve as a basis for future multidisciplinary approaches studying genetic abnormalities.", "contents": "Neurological, neuropsychological, and behavioral correlates of Klinefelter's syndrome. Neuropsychological assessment is a rapidly expanding discipline combining skills from clinical psychology and neurology. Although neuropsychological correlates have been reported for a wide variety of clinical syndromes, little investigation of this kind has been done in the area of genetic abnormalities. The present case study concerned a child with a variant of Klinefelter's syndrome, genotype XXYY. Results of extensive neurological, psychological, and neuropsychological evaluations are presented and discussed. In addition, educational achievement and personality correlates of the syndrome are reported. Combined evaluation from all disciplines presented a picture of diffuse cortical impairment with slightly greater left hemisphere involvement, resulting in retardation. Previously proposed personality correlates of passivity, shyness, and dependency were also in evidence. On recommendation of the treatment team the child was placed in an educable mentally retarded classroom and a 6-month follow-up showed him to be adjusting socially and functioning well in this setting. Although conclusions cannot be drawn from the study of a single case, data such as these may serve as a basis for future multidisciplinary approaches studying genetic abnormalities.", "PMID": 448339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8566", "title": "Briquet's syndrome in a man.", "content": "A case history is presented of a man who met the diagnostic criteria of Briquet's syndrome after a 7-year history of excessive use of psychiatric and medical health care services. Despite his having been seen by several psychiatrists, the diagnosis was made only following the use of the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (SADS), a structured psychiatric interview, the results of which were applied to operationalized diagnostic criteria (Research Diagnostic Criteria [RDC]). This case demonstrates: 1) the fact that Briquet's Syndrome, commonly considered a female disorder, can occur in men; 2) the utility of structured interviews and defined diagnostic criteria in arriving at unexpected diagnoses; and 3) the importance of recognizing Briquet's Syndrome in order to avoid needless medical intervention for somatic complaints of psychological origins.", "contents": "Briquet's syndrome in a man. A case history is presented of a man who met the diagnostic criteria of Briquet's syndrome after a 7-year history of excessive use of psychiatric and medical health care services. Despite his having been seen by several psychiatrists, the diagnosis was made only following the use of the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (SADS), a structured psychiatric interview, the results of which were applied to operationalized diagnostic criteria (Research Diagnostic Criteria [RDC]). This case demonstrates: 1) the fact that Briquet's Syndrome, commonly considered a female disorder, can occur in men; 2) the utility of structured interviews and defined diagnostic criteria in arriving at unexpected diagnoses; and 3) the importance of recognizing Briquet's Syndrome in order to avoid needless medical intervention for somatic complaints of psychological origins.", "PMID": 448340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8567", "title": "Some nonverbal aspects of depression and schizophrenia occurring during the interview.", "content": "Using remote control videotape recording of interviews and subsequent analysis of the record, eight measures of nonverbal behavior (principally facial) have been made in 12 schizophrenic and 13 depressive subjects shortly after admission to the hospital and again prior to discharge. They were matched with controls who were interviewed in a similar way. Additional videotape observations were made prior to the interview, when the patient was alone and subsequently when he was shown pictures designed to evoke emotional responses. It appears that some nonverbal behaviors can be used in the interview to differentiate between psychiatric patients and normals. These may also be useful as an index of clinical change since they revert toward the normal with clinical improvement. The nonverbal behaviors studied were more prominent in the interpersonal setting than when alone or when the subject was looking at pictorial stimuli. This implies that they may be elicited in response to another individual, either as a distortion of the ordinary nonverbal signaling system, or as physiological responses to a changed state of arousal induced by the interpersonal setting rather than as static characteristics of the syndrome.", "contents": "Some nonverbal aspects of depression and schizophrenia occurring during the interview. Using remote control videotape recording of interviews and subsequent analysis of the record, eight measures of nonverbal behavior (principally facial) have been made in 12 schizophrenic and 13 depressive subjects shortly after admission to the hospital and again prior to discharge. They were matched with controls who were interviewed in a similar way. Additional videotape observations were made prior to the interview, when the patient was alone and subsequently when he was shown pictures designed to evoke emotional responses. It appears that some nonverbal behaviors can be used in the interview to differentiate between psychiatric patients and normals. These may also be useful as an index of clinical change since they revert toward the normal with clinical improvement. The nonverbal behaviors studied were more prominent in the interpersonal setting than when alone or when the subject was looking at pictorial stimuli. This implies that they may be elicited in response to another individual, either as a distortion of the ordinary nonverbal signaling system, or as physiological responses to a changed state of arousal induced by the interpersonal setting rather than as static characteristics of the syndrome.", "PMID": 448343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8568", "title": "Preconditions and consequences of transference interpretations. A clinical-quantitative investigation.", "content": "Our aim was to study the preconditions and consequences of transference interpretations by both quantitative and clinical methods. We selected the three specimen psychoanalytic treatments which had been studied most by clinical-quantitative research. For each patient the main data consisted of 16 interpretation contexts. The context of each interpretation included 250 patient words before and 250 patient words after the interpretation. Three judges independently rated these before and after segments for each of the 16 samples from each of the three patients. Judges tended to agree highly in rating these segments on nine variables. The before vs. after ratings showed that each patient had a different but individually typical response to the 16 interpretations, ranging from patient A who usually showed a negative response, to patient B who showed some positive response, to patient C who showed a very positive response. For each of these three patients there was a clear parallel between the positivity of the immediate response to interpretations and the outcome of treatment. Even though we have so far studied only three patients, the consistency of the results suggests that it would be worth testing in a larger group whether a sample of immediate responses to interpretations might predict the eventual outcome of the treatment. Patient factors seem central in explaining the bases for the different response of each of the three patients to transference interpretations. The Health-Sickness Rating Scale ratings showed that patient A and patient B were less healthy initially than patient C--healthier patients may be able to respond better to transference interpretations. Also, the analyses of the segments before the interpretation revealed that even before the interpretation there were differences in the three patients. These were consistent with their differing responses to interpretation; for example, patient A was rated as having less understanding than the other patients even before the interpretations. Another patient factor, the patient's readiness to experience a helping relationship, probably was significant also in explaining the differing response of the three patients to interpretations; they already differed in this experience by the third to fifth sessions, and these differences paralleled their response to interpretation.", "contents": "Preconditions and consequences of transference interpretations. A clinical-quantitative investigation. Our aim was to study the preconditions and consequences of transference interpretations by both quantitative and clinical methods. We selected the three specimen psychoanalytic treatments which had been studied most by clinical-quantitative research. For each patient the main data consisted of 16 interpretation contexts. The context of each interpretation included 250 patient words before and 250 patient words after the interpretation. Three judges independently rated these before and after segments for each of the 16 samples from each of the three patients. Judges tended to agree highly in rating these segments on nine variables. The before vs. after ratings showed that each patient had a different but individually typical response to the 16 interpretations, ranging from patient A who usually showed a negative response, to patient B who showed some positive response, to patient C who showed a very positive response. For each of these three patients there was a clear parallel between the positivity of the immediate response to interpretations and the outcome of treatment. Even though we have so far studied only three patients, the consistency of the results suggests that it would be worth testing in a larger group whether a sample of immediate responses to interpretations might predict the eventual outcome of the treatment. Patient factors seem central in explaining the bases for the different response of each of the three patients to transference interpretations. The Health-Sickness Rating Scale ratings showed that patient A and patient B were less healthy initially than patient C--healthier patients may be able to respond better to transference interpretations. Also, the analyses of the segments before the interpretation revealed that even before the interpretation there were differences in the three patients. These were consistent with their differing responses to interpretation; for example, patient A was rated as having less understanding than the other patients even before the interpretations. Another patient factor, the patient's readiness to experience a helping relationship, probably was significant also in explaining the differing response of the three patients to interpretations; they already differed in this experience by the third to fifth sessions, and these differences paralleled their response to interpretation.", "PMID": 448342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8569", "title": "Differences between self-reported and observed pleasure in depression and schizophrenia.", "content": "Observer ratings of positive affect and self-ratings of pleasurable experience were collected daily on six schizophrenic and five depressed inpatients during baseline medication-free periods ranging from 11 to 27 days. Schizophrenics were observed to display significantly higher degrees of positive affect than depressed patients, but they reported significantly lower degrees of experienced pleasure. Depressed patients, conversely, were observed to demonstrate significantly lower degrees of positive affect than schizophrenics, but they reported significantly higher degrees of experienced pleasure. These results have important implications for the further specification of mechanisms underlying abnormalities in pleasure associated with psychiatric disorders.", "contents": "Differences between self-reported and observed pleasure in depression and schizophrenia. Observer ratings of positive affect and self-ratings of pleasurable experience were collected daily on six schizophrenic and five depressed inpatients during baseline medication-free periods ranging from 11 to 27 days. Schizophrenics were observed to display significantly higher degrees of positive affect than depressed patients, but they reported significantly lower degrees of experienced pleasure. Depressed patients, conversely, were observed to demonstrate significantly lower degrees of positive affect than schizophrenics, but they reported significantly higher degrees of experienced pleasure. These results have important implications for the further specification of mechanisms underlying abnormalities in pleasure associated with psychiatric disorders.", "PMID": 448344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8570", "title": "Racism as a response to change. The introduction of residents onto a psychiatry ward.", "content": "An outbreak of violence among inpatients coincident with the beginning of a residency training program is described. The phenomenon is viewed as an example of covert staff disagreement resulting in the scapegoating of black patients. Suggestions are made as to how to avoid the occurrence of similar phenomena through a process of re-education of ward staff.", "contents": "Racism as a response to change. The introduction of residents onto a psychiatry ward. An outbreak of violence among inpatients coincident with the beginning of a residency training program is described. The phenomenon is viewed as an example of covert staff disagreement resulting in the scapegoating of black patients. Suggestions are made as to how to avoid the occurrence of similar phenomena through a process of re-education of ward staff.", "PMID": 448345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8571", "title": "Conversion reaction in an 82-year-old man.", "content": "Conversion reactions are considered rare in the elderly. The author offers a case report of an 82-year-old man with a conversion pain syndrome and points out that conversion reactions may occur at any age and among all personality styles.", "contents": "Conversion reaction in an 82-year-old man. Conversion reactions are considered rare in the elderly. The author offers a case report of an 82-year-old man with a conversion pain syndrome and points out that conversion reactions may occur at any age and among all personality styles.", "PMID": 448341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8572", "title": "Body opening symptoms and right-left sets.", "content": "Previous work demonstrated a relationship between the frequency with which an individual experiences stomach symptoms and the asymmetry he displays in perceiving and responding to the spatial dimension of up-down. This suggested that spatial asymmetries may mirror attitudes that have physiological and symptom consequences. The generality of this formulation was tested by examining the correlation between right-left perceptual asymmetries and various symptoms. It was demonstrated in both males and females, although more strongly in the former, that symptoms involving the body openings are significantly correlated with a left perceptual bias. A theory concerning the meaning of this relationship was offered and found to be supported in a male and also a female sample.", "contents": "Body opening symptoms and right-left sets. Previous work demonstrated a relationship between the frequency with which an individual experiences stomach symptoms and the asymmetry he displays in perceiving and responding to the spatial dimension of up-down. This suggested that spatial asymmetries may mirror attitudes that have physiological and symptom consequences. The generality of this formulation was tested by examining the correlation between right-left perceptual asymmetries and various symptoms. It was demonstrated in both males and females, although more strongly in the former, that symptoms involving the body openings are significantly correlated with a left perceptual bias. A theory concerning the meaning of this relationship was offered and found to be supported in a male and also a female sample.", "PMID": 448346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8573", "title": "Anticoagulant abuse: a psychotic syndrome?", "content": "A case of surreptitious ingestion of oral anticoagulants is presented. The patient, a 31-year-old nurse, was followed for more than 3 years and underwent thorough psychological and psychiatric evaluation. Anticoagulant malingerers are by no means rare; however, little is known about the psychiatric disturbances in these patients. The tendency has been to regard these patients as having neurotic or personality disturbances. The data in the present case suggest that factitious hemorrhagic disease is caused by a psychotic disturbance. The results of psychiatric therapy are discussed.", "contents": "Anticoagulant abuse: a psychotic syndrome? A case of surreptitious ingestion of oral anticoagulants is presented. The patient, a 31-year-old nurse, was followed for more than 3 years and underwent thorough psychological and psychiatric evaluation. Anticoagulant malingerers are by no means rare; however, little is known about the psychiatric disturbances in these patients. The tendency has been to regard these patients as having neurotic or personality disturbances. The data in the present case suggest that factitious hemorrhagic disease is caused by a psychotic disturbance. The results of psychiatric therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 448349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8574", "title": "Surreptitious use of warfarin.", "content": "The authors present the case of a 61-year-old woman who became increasingly sensitive to her warfarin. When she remained anticoagulated during a 2-month period off of warfarin a plasma analysis detected warfarin indicating she was taking the anticoagulant surreptitiously. This patient demonstrated features of factitious illness including a background of unsatisfactory childhood relationships, average intelligence, a lack of psychosis, and no obvious secondary gain. Surreptitious use of anticoagulants should be considered in all cases of unexplained hemorrhagic symptoms with low prothrombin activity.", "contents": "Surreptitious use of warfarin. The authors present the case of a 61-year-old woman who became increasingly sensitive to her warfarin. When she remained anticoagulated during a 2-month period off of warfarin a plasma analysis detected warfarin indicating she was taking the anticoagulant surreptitiously. This patient demonstrated features of factitious illness including a background of unsatisfactory childhood relationships, average intelligence, a lack of psychosis, and no obvious secondary gain. Surreptitious use of anticoagulants should be considered in all cases of unexplained hemorrhagic symptoms with low prothrombin activity.", "PMID": 448350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8575", "title": "The effects of response bias on sex differences in a psychiatric population.", "content": "A sample of 58 male and 84 female new admissions to a psychiatric facility was interviewed to identify sex differences in personal and social functioning. Female subjects were found to score significantly higher on intrapsychic distress scales while male subjects scored higher on scales measuring antisocial behavior. Using analysis of covariance, keeping the L- or Lie scale of the MMPI constant, all measures which had previously shown significant sex differences now became nonsignificant. This finding suggests that reported sex differences may be accounted for by response bias.", "contents": "The effects of response bias on sex differences in a psychiatric population. A sample of 58 male and 84 female new admissions to a psychiatric facility was interviewed to identify sex differences in personal and social functioning. Female subjects were found to score significantly higher on intrapsychic distress scales while male subjects scored higher on scales measuring antisocial behavior. Using analysis of covariance, keeping the L- or Lie scale of the MMPI constant, all measures which had previously shown significant sex differences now became nonsignificant. This finding suggests that reported sex differences may be accounted for by response bias.", "PMID": 448348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8576", "title": "Models for metal-sulfur coordination in copper proteins.", "content": "The oxidation state of copper in several model compounds containing copper coordinated to sulfur, some of which are suggested model compounds for naturally occurring Cu-S chromophores, was determined employing x-ray photoelectron spectrometry. Copper was found to be present in a 3d10 state, which is characteristic for Cu(I). An initial photoreduction is excluded, as Cu(ethylenediamine)2 (SCN)2, in which a Cu-S bond is also present, was found to contain Cu(II) (3d9). As was the case with native parsley plastocyanin, the model compounds reacted effectively with superoxide anion radicals. We suggest that the electrons of the metal-sulfur chromophore in blue copper proteins are delocalized and that an equilibrium: RS--Cu(II) in equilibrium or formed from RS.Cu(I) exists.", "contents": "Models for metal-sulfur coordination in copper proteins. The oxidation state of copper in several model compounds containing copper coordinated to sulfur, some of which are suggested model compounds for naturally occurring Cu-S chromophores, was determined employing x-ray photoelectron spectrometry. Copper was found to be present in a 3d10 state, which is characteristic for Cu(I). An initial photoreduction is excluded, as Cu(ethylenediamine)2 (SCN)2, in which a Cu-S bond is also present, was found to contain Cu(II) (3d9). As was the case with native parsley plastocyanin, the model compounds reacted effectively with superoxide anion radicals. We suggest that the electrons of the metal-sulfur chromophore in blue copper proteins are delocalized and that an equilibrium: RS--Cu(II) in equilibrium or formed from RS.Cu(I) exists.", "PMID": 448351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8577", "title": "Mobilization of iron from specifically labeled reticulocyte ghosts.", "content": "Specifically labeled 59Fe ghosts have been prepared by incubation of whole reticulocytes with 59Fe3+-transferrin-CO3(2)-- followed by washing and ghost isolation. The binding of 59Fe by the membrane fraction is quite stable over a wide range of conditions, but iron mobilization occurs on incubation with chelating agents or cell lysate. The time course of 59Fe mobilization by unlabeled reticulocyte lysate exhibits five apparently zero-order phases. The rate of iron mobilization is linearly dependent on the concentration of 59Fe ghosts present in the incubation mixture. In contrast, the relative concentration of lysate appears to exhibit a saturation dependence with regard to membrane iron mobilization. Bathophenanthroline sulfonate follows a multiphasic time course of iron mobilization similar to that found with the lysate. Lysate from mature erythrocytes was found to mobilize iron with kinetics that are identical to reticulocyte lysate. The number and duration of the phases is independent of the mobilizing agent. The role of the membrane fraction in regulating the rate of iron release to cytosol was also investigated by the repetitive incubation of 59Fe ghosts with fresh lysate. The rate of 59Fe mobilization depended on the condition of the ghost with regard to prior 59Fe depletion. This publication emphasizes the active role of the membrane fraction in determining the rate at which iron will become available to the cytosol and the possibility that cytosol factors modulate the action of membrane bound components.", "contents": "Mobilization of iron from specifically labeled reticulocyte ghosts. Specifically labeled 59Fe ghosts have been prepared by incubation of whole reticulocytes with 59Fe3+-transferrin-CO3(2)-- followed by washing and ghost isolation. The binding of 59Fe by the membrane fraction is quite stable over a wide range of conditions, but iron mobilization occurs on incubation with chelating agents or cell lysate. The time course of 59Fe mobilization by unlabeled reticulocyte lysate exhibits five apparently zero-order phases. The rate of iron mobilization is linearly dependent on the concentration of 59Fe ghosts present in the incubation mixture. In contrast, the relative concentration of lysate appears to exhibit a saturation dependence with regard to membrane iron mobilization. Bathophenanthroline sulfonate follows a multiphasic time course of iron mobilization similar to that found with the lysate. Lysate from mature erythrocytes was found to mobilize iron with kinetics that are identical to reticulocyte lysate. The number and duration of the phases is independent of the mobilizing agent. The role of the membrane fraction in regulating the rate of iron release to cytosol was also investigated by the repetitive incubation of 59Fe ghosts with fresh lysate. The rate of 59Fe mobilization depended on the condition of the ghost with regard to prior 59Fe depletion. This publication emphasizes the active role of the membrane fraction in determining the rate at which iron will become available to the cytosol and the possibility that cytosol factors modulate the action of membrane bound components.", "PMID": 448352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8578", "title": "Cryptofluorescent analogs of cobalamin coenzymes: synthesis and characterization.", "content": "Upper-axial (beta-position) ligand analogs of the B12 coenzymes 5'-deoxy-5'-adenosylcob(III)alamin and methylcob(III)alamin have been synthesized by reaction of the 5'-chloro-5'-deoxy derivatives of fluorescent nucleosides (1,N6-ethenoadenosine, formycin, 2-amino-nebularine, and 2,6-diaminonebularine) and a fluorescent alkyl halide (dansylamidopropyl chloride) with cob(I)alamin. These analogs were nonfluorescent, but fluorescent products could be generated by photolysis or cyanolysis of the carbon-cobalt bonds. Under anaerobic and aerobic conditions, the major fluorescent photolysis products of 1,N6-ethenoadenosylcob(III)alamin were 1,N6-etheno-5',8-cyclic-5'-deoxyadenosine, and the 5'-aldehyde of 1,N6-ethenoadenosine, respectively. The cryptofluorescent property of these analogs was utilized to follow the kinetics of aerobic photolysis. First-order rate constants determined by this method were comparable to those obtained spectrophotometrically [via appearance of of aquacob(III)alamin]. Pseudo-first-order rate constants determined fluorometrically for the cyanolysis (at 25 degrees C) of 1,N6-ethenoadenosylcob(III)alamin, 2,6-diaminonebularinylcob(III)alamin, 2-aminonebularinylcob(III)alamin and formycinylcob(III)alamin were 5.8 X 10(-2), 2 X 10(-2), 1.8 X 10(-2), and 3 X 10(-5) min-1, respectively; values in good agreement were obtained spectrophotometrically (via appearance of dicyanocobalamin). Dansylamidopropylcob(III)alamin was stable in the presence of cyanide. The nucleoside alpha-ribazole is fluorescent in the free state but nonfluorescent when present as the lower axial (alpha-position) ligand in cobalamin coenzymes. Thus fluorescence of ligands in both the alpha- and beta-positions of cobalamins is quenched, probably as a result of intramolecular energy transfer between the ligands and the nonfluorescent corrinoid.", "contents": "Cryptofluorescent analogs of cobalamin coenzymes: synthesis and characterization. Upper-axial (beta-position) ligand analogs of the B12 coenzymes 5'-deoxy-5'-adenosylcob(III)alamin and methylcob(III)alamin have been synthesized by reaction of the 5'-chloro-5'-deoxy derivatives of fluorescent nucleosides (1,N6-ethenoadenosine, formycin, 2-amino-nebularine, and 2,6-diaminonebularine) and a fluorescent alkyl halide (dansylamidopropyl chloride) with cob(I)alamin. These analogs were nonfluorescent, but fluorescent products could be generated by photolysis or cyanolysis of the carbon-cobalt bonds. Under anaerobic and aerobic conditions, the major fluorescent photolysis products of 1,N6-ethenoadenosylcob(III)alamin were 1,N6-etheno-5',8-cyclic-5'-deoxyadenosine, and the 5'-aldehyde of 1,N6-ethenoadenosine, respectively. The cryptofluorescent property of these analogs was utilized to follow the kinetics of aerobic photolysis. First-order rate constants determined by this method were comparable to those obtained spectrophotometrically [via appearance of of aquacob(III)alamin]. Pseudo-first-order rate constants determined fluorometrically for the cyanolysis (at 25 degrees C) of 1,N6-ethenoadenosylcob(III)alamin, 2,6-diaminonebularinylcob(III)alamin, 2-aminonebularinylcob(III)alamin and formycinylcob(III)alamin were 5.8 X 10(-2), 2 X 10(-2), 1.8 X 10(-2), and 3 X 10(-5) min-1, respectively; values in good agreement were obtained spectrophotometrically (via appearance of dicyanocobalamin). Dansylamidopropylcob(III)alamin was stable in the presence of cyanide. The nucleoside alpha-ribazole is fluorescent in the free state but nonfluorescent when present as the lower axial (alpha-position) ligand in cobalamin coenzymes. Thus fluorescence of ligands in both the alpha- and beta-positions of cobalamins is quenched, probably as a result of intramolecular energy transfer between the ligands and the nonfluorescent corrinoid.", "PMID": 448353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8579", "title": "Early reactions of cadmium with Ehrlich cells.", "content": "Ehrlich ascites tumor cells accumulate cadmium against a concentration gradient in a bisphasic uptake process. There is little efflux of the metal from preloaded cells into a cadmium-free medium. Incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA is markedly inhibited by cadmium ion at 5-100 ng atoms of Cd/mg of cell protein, but uptake of the nucleoside label into cells is not depressed in this concentration range. Cell respiration is much less affected by cadmium ion despite the sensitivity of isolated mitochondria to the metal. Model experiments using several cadmium complexes with known conditional formation constants show that bovine heart mitochondria have strong affinity for cadmium ion. The contrast between this result and the resistance of cells to respiratory inhibition with cadmium ion is discussed to illustrate the difficulty in relating in vitro studies to the cell. The behavior of cadmium ion with the Ehrlich cell is compared with data for zinc ion to reveal similarities in inhibition of nucleoside metabolism and respiration but a sharp difference in transport properties.", "contents": "Early reactions of cadmium with Ehrlich cells. Ehrlich ascites tumor cells accumulate cadmium against a concentration gradient in a bisphasic uptake process. There is little efflux of the metal from preloaded cells into a cadmium-free medium. Incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA is markedly inhibited by cadmium ion at 5-100 ng atoms of Cd/mg of cell protein, but uptake of the nucleoside label into cells is not depressed in this concentration range. Cell respiration is much less affected by cadmium ion despite the sensitivity of isolated mitochondria to the metal. Model experiments using several cadmium complexes with known conditional formation constants show that bovine heart mitochondria have strong affinity for cadmium ion. The contrast between this result and the resistance of cells to respiratory inhibition with cadmium ion is discussed to illustrate the difficulty in relating in vitro studies to the cell. The behavior of cadmium ion with the Ehrlich cell is compared with data for zinc ion to reveal similarities in inhibition of nucleoside metabolism and respiration but a sharp difference in transport properties.", "PMID": 448354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8580", "title": "Morphological and biochemical findings in jejunal biopsies from patients with multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Gluten withdrawal from the diet is occasionally used speculatively in the management of multiple sclerosis. To assess whether there might be any rational basis for such a measure we have undertaken morphological and biochemical studies of the jejunal mucosa in 14 patients with multiple sclerosis. All were found to have morphologically normal villi, and quantitative estimation of surface-to-volume ratios gave values which did not differ from control subjects. Intraepithelial lymphocyte counts were normal. Antigliadin antibody titres were not raised in any patient. Estimation of activity of the brush border disaccharidases (sucrase, lactase, and maltase (showed that the mean level of each enzyme did not differ significantly from control subjects. Analytical subcellular fractionation of the biopsies showed no changes in the distribution or activity of marker enzymes for the brush order, lysosomes, mitochondria, cytosol, peroxisomes, or endoplasmic reticulum. It is concluded that there are no gross morphological or biochemical abnormalities in the jejunal mucosa in patients with multiple sclerosis and, therefore, that the use of gluten-free diets cannot be justified on the assumption that these patients suffer from a coeliac-like lesion of the small intestine.", "contents": "Morphological and biochemical findings in jejunal biopsies from patients with multiple sclerosis. Gluten withdrawal from the diet is occasionally used speculatively in the management of multiple sclerosis. To assess whether there might be any rational basis for such a measure we have undertaken morphological and biochemical studies of the jejunal mucosa in 14 patients with multiple sclerosis. All were found to have morphologically normal villi, and quantitative estimation of surface-to-volume ratios gave values which did not differ from control subjects. Intraepithelial lymphocyte counts were normal. Antigliadin antibody titres were not raised in any patient. Estimation of activity of the brush border disaccharidases (sucrase, lactase, and maltase (showed that the mean level of each enzyme did not differ significantly from control subjects. Analytical subcellular fractionation of the biopsies showed no changes in the distribution or activity of marker enzymes for the brush order, lysosomes, mitochondria, cytosol, peroxisomes, or endoplasmic reticulum. It is concluded that there are no gross morphological or biochemical abnormalities in the jejunal mucosa in patients with multiple sclerosis and, therefore, that the use of gluten-free diets cannot be justified on the assumption that these patients suffer from a coeliac-like lesion of the small intestine.", "PMID": 448378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8581", "title": "Subtle disturbances of vision after optic neuritis elicited by studying contrast sensitivity.", "content": "Eight patients with a subjective disorder of vision yet normal Snellen acuities after optic neuritis were shown to have an abnormal contrast sensitivity function in their affected eye. It appears that certain disorders of vision are associated with an abnormality of the contrast sensitivity function in spite of near normal visual acuity. Such an abnormality may affect pattern recognition without having an influence on Snellen acuity because of the high contrast of the latter and its predominant association with the higher spatial frequencies. Contrast sensitivity function is thus the only tool available to study those aspects of vision which have remained impervious to other subjective tests of visual function.", "contents": "Subtle disturbances of vision after optic neuritis elicited by studying contrast sensitivity. Eight patients with a subjective disorder of vision yet normal Snellen acuities after optic neuritis were shown to have an abnormal contrast sensitivity function in their affected eye. It appears that certain disorders of vision are associated with an abnormality of the contrast sensitivity function in spite of near normal visual acuity. Such an abnormality may affect pattern recognition without having an influence on Snellen acuity because of the high contrast of the latter and its predominant association with the higher spatial frequencies. Contrast sensitivity function is thus the only tool available to study those aspects of vision which have remained impervious to other subjective tests of visual function.", "PMID": 448379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8582", "title": "Intradural enterogenous cyst.", "content": "A 23 year old woman with an intradural extramedullary enterogenous cyst in the cervical region, unassociated with vertebral cleft, presented with two episodes of neurological disturbance at an interval of five years. Subtotal excision of the anteriorly placed cyst at C6 vertebral level was followed by rapid and complete recovery.", "contents": "Intradural enterogenous cyst. A 23 year old woman with an intradural extramedullary enterogenous cyst in the cervical region, unassociated with vertebral cleft, presented with two episodes of neurological disturbance at an interval of five years. Subtotal excision of the anteriorly placed cyst at C6 vertebral level was followed by rapid and complete recovery.", "PMID": 448381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8583", "title": "Radiation myelopathy.", "content": "Five cases of radiation myelopathy were found in a total of 10,000 cases given radiotherapy from 1968 to 1977. The clinical presentation and treatment details including the total dose, treatment volume, number of fractionations, overall time, and the RET value at the spinal cord were calculated and compared with other reports on this subject. The total number of fractionations ranged from 20 to 26 with an overall time of 32 days to 37 days. The dose received by four patients ranged from 1030 to 1900 RET, a little higher than the tolerance level of the spinal cord as compared to reported values. Two patients in this series had high blood pressure. The incidence of radiation myelopathy, already acceptably low, could possibly be reduced further by meticulous planning of radiation.", "contents": "Radiation myelopathy. Five cases of radiation myelopathy were found in a total of 10,000 cases given radiotherapy from 1968 to 1977. The clinical presentation and treatment details including the total dose, treatment volume, number of fractionations, overall time, and the RET value at the spinal cord were calculated and compared with other reports on this subject. The total number of fractionations ranged from 20 to 26 with an overall time of 32 days to 37 days. The dose received by four patients ranged from 1030 to 1900 RET, a little higher than the tolerance level of the spinal cord as compared to reported values. Two patients in this series had high blood pressure. The incidence of radiation myelopathy, already acceptably low, could possibly be reduced further by meticulous planning of radiation.", "PMID": 448380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8584", "title": "Sensory functions in chronic neuralgia.", "content": "Eleven patients with sustained neuralgia, in most cases after traumatic nerve lesion, were subjected to quantitative sensory testing with thermal and non-noxious mechanical stimuli. Measurements were made in the pain area and at a homologous site on the contralateral normal side. All patients were hypoaesthetic with raised thresholds for warm and cold or touch, or both. Thermal pain thresholds were also raised in some patients but lowered in others indicating hypersensitivity of the nociceptor system or dysaesthesia for thermal input. In six patients single mechanical stimuli produced a painful response above the touch detection threshold. Reaction time measurements indicated that this painful response to suprathreshold mechanical pulses was measured by magnitude estimation as a function of stimulus amplitude. The results were fitted by power functions, as in normal skin, but with steeper slopes on the abnormal side. Suprathreshold hyperaesthesia (recruitment) may exist in the presence of normal threshold functioning.", "contents": "Sensory functions in chronic neuralgia. Eleven patients with sustained neuralgia, in most cases after traumatic nerve lesion, were subjected to quantitative sensory testing with thermal and non-noxious mechanical stimuli. Measurements were made in the pain area and at a homologous site on the contralateral normal side. All patients were hypoaesthetic with raised thresholds for warm and cold or touch, or both. Thermal pain thresholds were also raised in some patients but lowered in others indicating hypersensitivity of the nociceptor system or dysaesthesia for thermal input. In six patients single mechanical stimuli produced a painful response above the touch detection threshold. Reaction time measurements indicated that this painful response to suprathreshold mechanical pulses was measured by magnitude estimation as a function of stimulus amplitude. The results were fitted by power functions, as in normal skin, but with steeper slopes on the abnormal side. Suprathreshold hyperaesthesia (recruitment) may exist in the presence of normal threshold functioning.", "PMID": 448382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8585", "title": "Nerve conduction, tactile sensibility, and the electromyogram after suture or compression of peripheral nerve: a longitudinal study in man.", "content": "In three patients sequential studies were performed of sensory and motor conduction after complete section and suture of the median nerve at the wrist and in one patient after partial section of the nerve. The sensory potential evoked by stimuli to digits III and I and recorded proximal to the suture line at the wrist appeared after a delay of three to four months, corresponding to a growth rate of 1.5-2.0 mm per day. From early in the course of regeneration the sensory potential was dispersed in 40 components. In the adult patient the cumulative amplitude increased for two years slowly and thereafter at a two times faster rate. Amplitude and tactile sensibility were normal after 40 months, but the sensory potential was still five times more dispersed than normal. The overall increase in the amplitude of the sensory potentials in children aged 10 and 12 years was three times faster than in adults. In the adults and in the children the maximum sensory conduction velocity was 10-25% of normal. It then increased at 3% per month during the first two years, and thereafter 10 times slower. Forty months after suture in the adults and 13-19 months after suture in the children the conduction velocity had reached 65-75% of normal. The pattern of discrete electrical activity during voluntary effort and the prolonged duration of motor unit potentials indicate persistent enlargement of the reinnervated motor units by peripheral sprouting. The sensory potential recovered five times faster after a compressive nerve lesion than after section and suture as seen in another patient with an affection of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Normal tactile sensibility was attained 10 times faster than after section and suture. Maximum sensory and motor condution velocity recovered within one year from 60-70% to 80-90% of normal.", "contents": "Nerve conduction, tactile sensibility, and the electromyogram after suture or compression of peripheral nerve: a longitudinal study in man. In three patients sequential studies were performed of sensory and motor conduction after complete section and suture of the median nerve at the wrist and in one patient after partial section of the nerve. The sensory potential evoked by stimuli to digits III and I and recorded proximal to the suture line at the wrist appeared after a delay of three to four months, corresponding to a growth rate of 1.5-2.0 mm per day. From early in the course of regeneration the sensory potential was dispersed in 40 components. In the adult patient the cumulative amplitude increased for two years slowly and thereafter at a two times faster rate. Amplitude and tactile sensibility were normal after 40 months, but the sensory potential was still five times more dispersed than normal. The overall increase in the amplitude of the sensory potentials in children aged 10 and 12 years was three times faster than in adults. In the adults and in the children the maximum sensory conduction velocity was 10-25% of normal. It then increased at 3% per month during the first two years, and thereafter 10 times slower. Forty months after suture in the adults and 13-19 months after suture in the children the conduction velocity had reached 65-75% of normal. The pattern of discrete electrical activity during voluntary effort and the prolonged duration of motor unit potentials indicate persistent enlargement of the reinnervated motor units by peripheral sprouting. The sensory potential recovered five times faster after a compressive nerve lesion than after section and suture as seen in another patient with an affection of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Normal tactile sensibility was attained 10 times faster than after section and suture. Maximum sensory and motor condution velocity recovered within one year from 60-70% to 80-90% of normal.", "PMID": 448383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8586", "title": "Dopamine receptors and sleep induction in man.", "content": "Sleep induction has been studied in humans after the administration of apomorphine, a direct stimulant of the central dopaminergic system. The drug induced sleep and vomiting in healthy volunteers while it had no significant effect on 10 Parkinsonism patients treated for a long period with L-dopa. Apomorphine given to a group of Parkinsonism patients not receiving any specific treatment, and with a lower degree of disease severity, induced vomiting and sleep with a pattern similar to that in healthy subjects. A relationship between the dopaminergic system and sleep induction is suggested.", "contents": "Dopamine receptors and sleep induction in man. Sleep induction has been studied in humans after the administration of apomorphine, a direct stimulant of the central dopaminergic system. The drug induced sleep and vomiting in healthy volunteers while it had no significant effect on 10 Parkinsonism patients treated for a long period with L-dopa. Apomorphine given to a group of Parkinsonism patients not receiving any specific treatment, and with a lower degree of disease severity, induced vomiting and sleep with a pattern similar to that in healthy subjects. A relationship between the dopaminergic system and sleep induction is suggested.", "PMID": 448384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8587", "title": "Late components of motor unit potentials in central core disease.", "content": "Electromyographic studies in five patients suffering from central core disease are presented. A variable amount of late components of motor unit potentials were found in all of them, as others have found in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This suggests the existence of collateral innervation of the resultant fragments of the muscular fibre splitting present in this disorder.", "contents": "Late components of motor unit potentials in central core disease. Electromyographic studies in five patients suffering from central core disease are presented. A variable amount of late components of motor unit potentials were found in all of them, as others have found in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This suggests the existence of collateral innervation of the resultant fragments of the muscular fibre splitting present in this disorder.", "PMID": 448385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8588", "title": "Blink reflexes in severe traumatic coma.", "content": "Blink reflexes were studied in 21 patients in coma after severe head injury. Our observations suggest that blink reflexes are a simple, objective, neurophysiological test to evaluate brainstem function. Correlations between these reflexes and the anatomoclinical stanges of coma and the Glasgow coma scale have been established. Presence of the early R1 component shows the integrity of at least a part of the pontine structures. The appearance of the late R2 component is correlated with a better chance of recovery from coma.", "contents": "Blink reflexes in severe traumatic coma. Blink reflexes were studied in 21 patients in coma after severe head injury. Our observations suggest that blink reflexes are a simple, objective, neurophysiological test to evaluate brainstem function. Correlations between these reflexes and the anatomoclinical stanges of coma and the Glasgow coma scale have been established. Presence of the early R1 component shows the integrity of at least a part of the pontine structures. The appearance of the late R2 component is correlated with a better chance of recovery from coma.", "PMID": 448386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8589", "title": "Ventriculitis from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus variant anitratus.", "content": "Ventriculitis from infection with Acinetobacter calcoaceticus variant anitratus occurred in an infant two weeks after surgical repair of a lumbosacral meningomyelocele and ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Recovery took place on replacing the shunt with an extraventricular deviation device and giving gentamicin and ampicillin intravenously.", "contents": "Ventriculitis from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus variant anitratus. Ventriculitis from infection with Acinetobacter calcoaceticus variant anitratus occurred in an infant two weeks after surgical repair of a lumbosacral meningomyelocele and ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Recovery took place on replacing the shunt with an extraventricular deviation device and giving gentamicin and ampicillin intravenously.", "PMID": 448387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8590", "title": "Reading difficulty as a presenting symptom in Wilson's disease.", "content": "A case of Wilson's disease is reported in which the major symptom before treatment was a reading disability. This was caused by ocular dysmetria, and the abnormal eye movements were recorded by electronystagmography and optokinetic drum testing.", "contents": "Reading difficulty as a presenting symptom in Wilson's disease. A case of Wilson's disease is reported in which the major symptom before treatment was a reading disability. This was caused by ocular dysmetria, and the abnormal eye movements were recorded by electronystagmography and optokinetic drum testing.", "PMID": 448388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8591", "title": "Clofibrate-induced muscular syndrome. Report of a case with clinical, electromyographic and pathologic observations.", "content": "In this report the clinical features of a case of clofibrate-induced muscular syndrome, as well as the electromyographic, histochemical, light- and electron-microscopic findings are described. The clinical features are similar to those of previously reported cases. Electromyography was consistent with a myopathy. Histochemical profile was normal. The myopathology included breakdown of contractile material, deranged mitochondria, dilated sarcoplasmic reticulum profiles, accumulation of membrane bound dense bodies, discontinuities in sarcolemma and thickening of capillary basement membrane. Macrophages invaded severely affected fibers.", "contents": "Clofibrate-induced muscular syndrome. Report of a case with clinical, electromyographic and pathologic observations. In this report the clinical features of a case of clofibrate-induced muscular syndrome, as well as the electromyographic, histochemical, light- and electron-microscopic findings are described. The clinical features are similar to those of previously reported cases. Electromyography was consistent with a myopathy. Histochemical profile was normal. The myopathology included breakdown of contractile material, deranged mitochondria, dilated sarcoplasmic reticulum profiles, accumulation of membrane bound dense bodies, discontinuities in sarcolemma and thickening of capillary basement membrane. Macrophages invaded severely affected fibers.", "PMID": 448390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8592", "title": "Myotonia, potassium and taurine. A preliminary report.", "content": "The effect of taurine administration upon potassium-induced muscular hyperexcitability was studied in patients affected with dystrophic myotonia and in normal volunteers. Intra-arterial infusions of increasing concentrations of potassium chloride were given and venous potassium levels simultaneously monitored. Taurine prevented or remarkably reduced the electric signs of muscular hyperexcitability. Potassium chloride and taurine effects upon muscular excitability are discussed in terms of changes of membrane conductance, particularly for potassium ions.", "contents": "Myotonia, potassium and taurine. A preliminary report. The effect of taurine administration upon potassium-induced muscular hyperexcitability was studied in patients affected with dystrophic myotonia and in normal volunteers. Intra-arterial infusions of increasing concentrations of potassium chloride were given and venous potassium levels simultaneously monitored. Taurine prevented or remarkably reduced the electric signs of muscular hyperexcitability. Potassium chloride and taurine effects upon muscular excitability are discussed in terms of changes of membrane conductance, particularly for potassium ions.", "PMID": 448391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8593", "title": "The limitation of pulsatile flow through the aqueduct of Sylvius as a cause of hydrocephalus.", "content": "The concept is advanced that hydrocephalus results from limitation in the pulsatile flow of CSF downwards through the aqueduct of Sylvius during systole which is necessary to accommodate for the pulsatile pressure and volume increase that accompanies the propagation of the arterial pulse through the brain. Evidence is given to show that flow through the fixed human aqueduct is disturbed and not laminar. Further, with the pressures availalbe, the aqueduct is only just large enough to pass the quantity of fluid which must be vented extracranially during systole. Should the capacity of this systolic venting mechanism be exceeded, physical strain will cause cellular damage in the periventricular and periaqueductal regions which, if prolonged, will lead to tissue destruction and hydrocephalus. There appear to be two main causes for hydrocephalus resulting from this mechanism. Firstly, structural lesions, restricting the lumina of the CSF-venting pathways, especially the aqueduct, will reduce the volume of CSF that can flow through these pathways during systole. The hydrocephalic process will then be continuous and only limited when tissue destruction reduces the systolic volume expansion of the brain such that it can be accomodated by the restricted CSF venting pathways. Secondly, conditions which may increase the amount of the systolic volume expansion of the brain beyond the capacity of the CSF venting pathways. Raised mean intracranial pressure is the most important of these conditions. In such cases the hydrocephalus will be limited by the duration of the causal process and possibly also by the enlargement of the venting pathways, as a result of tissue destruction. This hypothesis also accounts for hydrocephalus resulting from obliteration of the cortical subarachnoid space, obstruction to the cranial venous drainage, deformities in the region of the foramen magnum and arterial encroachment upon the ventricular system.", "contents": "The limitation of pulsatile flow through the aqueduct of Sylvius as a cause of hydrocephalus. The concept is advanced that hydrocephalus results from limitation in the pulsatile flow of CSF downwards through the aqueduct of Sylvius during systole which is necessary to accommodate for the pulsatile pressure and volume increase that accompanies the propagation of the arterial pulse through the brain. Evidence is given to show that flow through the fixed human aqueduct is disturbed and not laminar. Further, with the pressures availalbe, the aqueduct is only just large enough to pass the quantity of fluid which must be vented extracranially during systole. Should the capacity of this systolic venting mechanism be exceeded, physical strain will cause cellular damage in the periventricular and periaqueductal regions which, if prolonged, will lead to tissue destruction and hydrocephalus. There appear to be two main causes for hydrocephalus resulting from this mechanism. Firstly, structural lesions, restricting the lumina of the CSF-venting pathways, especially the aqueduct, will reduce the volume of CSF that can flow through these pathways during systole. The hydrocephalic process will then be continuous and only limited when tissue destruction reduces the systolic volume expansion of the brain such that it can be accomodated by the restricted CSF venting pathways. Secondly, conditions which may increase the amount of the systolic volume expansion of the brain beyond the capacity of the CSF venting pathways. Raised mean intracranial pressure is the most important of these conditions. In such cases the hydrocephalus will be limited by the duration of the causal process and possibly also by the enlargement of the venting pathways, as a result of tissue destruction. This hypothesis also accounts for hydrocephalus resulting from obliteration of the cortical subarachnoid space, obstruction to the cranial venous drainage, deformities in the region of the foramen magnum and arterial encroachment upon the ventricular system.", "PMID": 448392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8594", "title": "A freeze-fracture study of fiber types in normal human muscle.", "content": "The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and plasma membranes of Type 1 and Type 2 fibers of normal human muscle were examined by the freeze-fracture technique. Total particle counts in the SR appeared much lower than in other mammals and a packing density of about 1200 particles/micrometer 2 was found in both longitudinal and cisternal components of SR. There was no difference in particle density of Type 1 and Type 2 fibers. In freeze-fracture replicas of plasma membranes several fiber type differences were seen. The surface caveolae were uniformly distributed in Type 1 fibers whereas in Type 2 they were clustered preferentially at the I-band levels. Total density of intramembranous particles was greater in Type 1 fibers (347 +/- 68/micrometer 2 in P-face, 58 +/- 11/micrometer 2 in E face) than in Type 2 fibers (207 +/- 30/micrometer 2 in P-face, 80 +/- 9/micrometer 2 in E-face). There was a striking difference in respect to rectilinear arrays which were virtually absent in Type 1 fibers (0--2/micrometer 2) and numberous (up to 50--70/micrometer 2) in Type 2 fibers.", "contents": "A freeze-fracture study of fiber types in normal human muscle. The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and plasma membranes of Type 1 and Type 2 fibers of normal human muscle were examined by the freeze-fracture technique. Total particle counts in the SR appeared much lower than in other mammals and a packing density of about 1200 particles/micrometer 2 was found in both longitudinal and cisternal components of SR. There was no difference in particle density of Type 1 and Type 2 fibers. In freeze-fracture replicas of plasma membranes several fiber type differences were seen. The surface caveolae were uniformly distributed in Type 1 fibers whereas in Type 2 they were clustered preferentially at the I-band levels. Total density of intramembranous particles was greater in Type 1 fibers (347 +/- 68/micrometer 2 in P-face, 58 +/- 11/micrometer 2 in E face) than in Type 2 fibers (207 +/- 30/micrometer 2 in P-face, 80 +/- 9/micrometer 2 in E-face). There was a striking difference in respect to rectilinear arrays which were virtually absent in Type 1 fibers (0--2/micrometer 2) and numberous (up to 50--70/micrometer 2) in Type 2 fibers.", "PMID": 448393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8595", "title": "Virus-induced demyelination. Production by a viral temperature-sensitive mutant.", "content": "Infection of mice with a temperature-sensitive (ts) mutant of Chandipura virus (CV) ts472 CV, induced a slower disease than the respective parental virus and white matter lesions characterized by perivascular mononuclear infiltrates accompanied by primary demyelination. The pattern of these lesions was very similar to that in EAE, a prototypic autoimmune disease and in Theiler's virus infection in which an immunopathologic mechanism of myelin injury is strongly suggested. Results obtained in nude mice supported the possible immunopathological nature of myelin injury in ts472 CV infection. No inflammatory response was elicited in either grey or white matter. However, whereas grey matter presented extensive necrosis, no alterations were present in white matter. Such data suggest that whereas grey matter lesions are produced by direct viral cytolytic activity, white matter pathology is probably dependent on the host immune response for its development. The finding of additional models of virus-induced demyelination with a possible immunopathologic mechanism of myelin injury is significant as it suggests that this type of virus-induced myelin degeneration is not restricted to a single virus like Theiler's, but it may represent a more general mechanism of virus-induced demyelination.", "contents": "Virus-induced demyelination. Production by a viral temperature-sensitive mutant. Infection of mice with a temperature-sensitive (ts) mutant of Chandipura virus (CV) ts472 CV, induced a slower disease than the respective parental virus and white matter lesions characterized by perivascular mononuclear infiltrates accompanied by primary demyelination. The pattern of these lesions was very similar to that in EAE, a prototypic autoimmune disease and in Theiler's virus infection in which an immunopathologic mechanism of myelin injury is strongly suggested. Results obtained in nude mice supported the possible immunopathological nature of myelin injury in ts472 CV infection. No inflammatory response was elicited in either grey or white matter. However, whereas grey matter presented extensive necrosis, no alterations were present in white matter. Such data suggest that whereas grey matter lesions are produced by direct viral cytolytic activity, white matter pathology is probably dependent on the host immune response for its development. The finding of additional models of virus-induced demyelination with a possible immunopathologic mechanism of myelin injury is significant as it suggests that this type of virus-induced myelin degeneration is not restricted to a single virus like Theiler's, but it may represent a more general mechanism of virus-induced demyelination.", "PMID": 448394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8596", "title": "Quantitative electromyography using automatic analysis. A comparative study with a fixed fraction of a subject's maximum effort and two levels of thresholds for analysis.", "content": "Quantitative electromyographic (QEMG) data recorded with two levels of threshold for the apparatus are compared. Using a fixed fraction of a subject's maximum effort the data are shown to be independent of sex, age and the strength of the muscles. The diagnostic yield of such a method is shown to be better with 50 muV threshold for analysis than with 100 muV, in cases of muscle disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and polymyositis. However, in cases of neurogenic lesions due to anterior horn cell disease the diagnostic yield remains the same with both thresholds.", "contents": "Quantitative electromyography using automatic analysis. A comparative study with a fixed fraction of a subject's maximum effort and two levels of thresholds for analysis. Quantitative electromyographic (QEMG) data recorded with two levels of threshold for the apparatus are compared. Using a fixed fraction of a subject's maximum effort the data are shown to be independent of sex, age and the strength of the muscles. The diagnostic yield of such a method is shown to be better with 50 muV threshold for analysis than with 100 muV, in cases of muscle disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and polymyositis. However, in cases of neurogenic lesions due to anterior horn cell disease the diagnostic yield remains the same with both thresholds.", "PMID": 448395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8597", "title": "Nasal encephalocoele. Treatment by trans-cranial operation.", "content": "Results are described of 86 intracranial operations for the repair of nasal encephalocoele children at the Lahore Neurosurgical Centre in the last 13 years. These midline lesions at the base of the anterior cranial fossa have been considered in the past to be inoperable and even when operable, unpleasantly difficult. The intracranial approach has made it possible to treat this condition satisfactorily with comparatively few complications. Attempts at extra-cranial repair have met little success as they do not take into account the basic embryology and anatomy of the condition and fail to tackle the sac at the patent foramen caecum, the neck of the sac. This paper describes the embryology, anatomy, basic pathology and clinical features of the condition with characteristic X-rays showing the patent foramen caecum and outlines the operative repair.", "contents": "Nasal encephalocoele. Treatment by trans-cranial operation. Results are described of 86 intracranial operations for the repair of nasal encephalocoele children at the Lahore Neurosurgical Centre in the last 13 years. These midline lesions at the base of the anterior cranial fossa have been considered in the past to be inoperable and even when operable, unpleasantly difficult. The intracranial approach has made it possible to treat this condition satisfactorily with comparatively few complications. Attempts at extra-cranial repair have met little success as they do not take into account the basic embryology and anatomy of the condition and fail to tackle the sac at the patent foramen caecum, the neck of the sac. This paper describes the embryology, anatomy, basic pathology and clinical features of the condition with characteristic X-rays showing the patent foramen caecum and outlines the operative repair.", "PMID": 448396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8598", "title": "The failure of microglia in normal brain to exhibit mononuclear phagocyte markers.", "content": "The origin of brain macrophages or \"reactive microglia\" has been the subject of considerable controversy. The fundamental question is whether or not there is a morphologically and functionally distinct population of cells, called microglia, which are resident in normal brain and differentiate into macrophages in response to inflammatory stimuli. The present study was performed to determine if any cells in the normal brain have the common markers of mononuclear phagocytes; phagocytosis, IgGFc receptors or macrophage specific antigens. In studies of the newborn and the adult murine brain and adult human brain no cells were detected which had any of those markers, although the highly sensitive marker methods were capable of detecting mononuclear phagocytes in all other tissues where they are known to occur. The results suggest that microglia, if they exist as a distinct cell type, are unrelated to mononuclear phagocytes. Furthermore, they suggest, but do not prove, that all inflammatory macrophages are derived from hematogenous precursors.", "contents": "The failure of microglia in normal brain to exhibit mononuclear phagocyte markers. The origin of brain macrophages or \"reactive microglia\" has been the subject of considerable controversy. The fundamental question is whether or not there is a morphologically and functionally distinct population of cells, called microglia, which are resident in normal brain and differentiate into macrophages in response to inflammatory stimuli. The present study was performed to determine if any cells in the normal brain have the common markers of mononuclear phagocytes; phagocytosis, IgGFc receptors or macrophage specific antigens. In studies of the newborn and the adult murine brain and adult human brain no cells were detected which had any of those markers, although the highly sensitive marker methods were capable of detecting mononuclear phagocytes in all other tissues where they are known to occur. The results suggest that microglia, if they exist as a distinct cell type, are unrelated to mononuclear phagocytes. Furthermore, they suggest, but do not prove, that all inflammatory macrophages are derived from hematogenous precursors.", "PMID": 448398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8599", "title": "Pathology of Shy-Drager syndrome.", "content": "In four patients with the Shy-Drager syndrome, detailed pathological findings in the central nervous system are described. All four patients had striatonigral degeneration, olivopontocerebellar atrophy, pyramidal tract degeneration and ventral horn cell loss. Along with the multisystem degeneration, there was widespread loss of thoracolumbar autonomic neurons, which was demonstrated by comparative cell counts of the intermediolateral horns in two of the four patients. In all four patients, autonomic nuclei of the sacral cord, particularly the Onuf's and intermediolateral nuclei, were severely affected and diffuse cell loss in the nuclei seems to account for disordered bladder, rectal and sexual functions in Shy-Drager syndrome.", "contents": "Pathology of Shy-Drager syndrome. In four patients with the Shy-Drager syndrome, detailed pathological findings in the central nervous system are described. All four patients had striatonigral degeneration, olivopontocerebellar atrophy, pyramidal tract degeneration and ventral horn cell loss. Along with the multisystem degeneration, there was widespread loss of thoracolumbar autonomic neurons, which was demonstrated by comparative cell counts of the intermediolateral horns in two of the four patients. In all four patients, autonomic nuclei of the sacral cord, particularly the Onuf's and intermediolateral nuclei, were severely affected and diffuse cell loss in the nuclei seems to account for disordered bladder, rectal and sexual functions in Shy-Drager syndrome.", "PMID": 448397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8600", "title": "Olivopontocerebellar atrophy with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis: a contribution to the somatotopy of the nucleus ambiguus.", "content": "The authors report a case of olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis. The cerebellar syndrome appeared in a 66 year-old woman and ran its course until her death at 75. The velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis occured two years after the beginning of the cerebellar symtomatology and was limited for 6 months to a Gerhardt syndrome. Postmortem examination showed typical lesions of OPCA, and on serial sections of the medulla a massive loss of neurons in the lower two thirds of the nucleus ambiguus, bilaterally. The association of OPCA with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis is exceptional. The anatomical findings in this case contribute to the somatotopy of the nucleus ambiguus in man by demonstrating the location of the velopharyngolaryngeal centers in this formation. The upper third plays only an accessory role in the velopharyngolaryngeal functions, and in the two lower thirds one finds, from the oral to the caudal extremity, first the velopharyngeal, then the laryngeal centers.", "contents": "Olivopontocerebellar atrophy with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis: a contribution to the somatotopy of the nucleus ambiguus. The authors report a case of olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis. The cerebellar syndrome appeared in a 66 year-old woman and ran its course until her death at 75. The velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis occured two years after the beginning of the cerebellar symtomatology and was limited for 6 months to a Gerhardt syndrome. Postmortem examination showed typical lesions of OPCA, and on serial sections of the medulla a massive loss of neurons in the lower two thirds of the nucleus ambiguus, bilaterally. The association of OPCA with velopharyngolaryngeal paralysis is exceptional. The anatomical findings in this case contribute to the somatotopy of the nucleus ambiguus in man by demonstrating the location of the velopharyngolaryngeal centers in this formation. The upper third plays only an accessory role in the velopharyngolaryngeal functions, and in the two lower thirds one finds, from the oral to the caudal extremity, first the velopharyngeal, then the laryngeal centers.", "PMID": 448399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8601", "title": "A freeze-fracture study of the plasma membrane of muscle fibres of a patient with chronic creatine kinase elevation suspected for malignant hyperthermia.", "content": "The muscle biopsy from a 12-year-old boy with chronic creatine kinase elevation was studied by electron microscopy. At the age of 7 years the patient had a possible abortive attack of malignant hyperthermia. The biopsy specimen contained many fibres with segmental contracture and necrosis; thin sections showed defects of the plasma membrane with loss of glycogen granules into the interstitium. Freeze-fracturing of the plasma membrane showed clustering of intramembranous particles and some membrane areas were devoid of particles and of pinocytotic caveolae. The E-face showed irregular elevations and the P-face corresponding defects. These deviations of the fracture-plane were due to manifest membrane openings, to abnormalities of the structure of the lipid bilayer, to clustering of membrane particles or to the fact that intracellular membranes often were abnormally close to the plasma membrane. The findings suggest that a disintegration of the lipid-protein system of the membrane precedes the formation of manifest defects. The manifest defects resembled those in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It is unknown whether the changes seen by freeze-fracturing were specific for a myogenic disorder and whether they were due to a basic membrane abnormality or to defects in other systems of the muscle cell.", "contents": "A freeze-fracture study of the plasma membrane of muscle fibres of a patient with chronic creatine kinase elevation suspected for malignant hyperthermia. The muscle biopsy from a 12-year-old boy with chronic creatine kinase elevation was studied by electron microscopy. At the age of 7 years the patient had a possible abortive attack of malignant hyperthermia. The biopsy specimen contained many fibres with segmental contracture and necrosis; thin sections showed defects of the plasma membrane with loss of glycogen granules into the interstitium. Freeze-fracturing of the plasma membrane showed clustering of intramembranous particles and some membrane areas were devoid of particles and of pinocytotic caveolae. The E-face showed irregular elevations and the P-face corresponding defects. These deviations of the fracture-plane were due to manifest membrane openings, to abnormalities of the structure of the lipid bilayer, to clustering of membrane particles or to the fact that intracellular membranes often were abnormally close to the plasma membrane. The findings suggest that a disintegration of the lipid-protein system of the membrane precedes the formation of manifest defects. The manifest defects resembled those in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It is unknown whether the changes seen by freeze-fracturing were specific for a myogenic disorder and whether they were due to a basic membrane abnormality or to defects in other systems of the muscle cell.", "PMID": 448400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8602", "title": "Subependymal giant cell tumor of tuberose sclerosis. A light and ultrastructural study.", "content": "In a small number of cases of tuberose sclerosis, tumors develop in the cerebral subependymal region. Their exact nature has been the subject of debate. The cytology, histology and electron microscopy of a tumor which developed in a 16 year old male suffering from tuberose sclerosis are presented and the findings are discussed.", "contents": "Subependymal giant cell tumor of tuberose sclerosis. A light and ultrastructural study. In a small number of cases of tuberose sclerosis, tumors develop in the cerebral subependymal region. Their exact nature has been the subject of debate. The cytology, histology and electron microscopy of a tumor which developed in a 16 year old male suffering from tuberose sclerosis are presented and the findings are discussed.", "PMID": 448401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8603", "title": "Fine structure of arachnoid cysts.", "content": "Recent studies of the fine structure of the cranial meninges of laboratory animals and man have shown that there is no subdural space. The latter is formed artificially by the tendency of meningeal tissues to cleave along a collagen-free zone, the dura-arachnoid interface layer. This layer is composed of an outer zone of dural border cells and an inner arachnoid barrier layer. The fine structure of nine arachnoid cysts was studied to determine the derivation of the cyst's wall from the various components of normal human meninges. A cleaved dura-arachnoid interface layer covered only the dome of the cyst where the latter had abutted the dura mater. The interface layer did not partake in forming the cyst's wall. The dominant phenomenon of the cyst's wall was an absence of the normal trabeculation of the subarachnoid space, the trabecules being replaced by tightly packed collagen fibrils and a few scattered cells in between. Some cells were layered discontinuously at the inner face of the cyst wall, but there was no organized inner lining. No evidence was found for either a tight sealing of the extracellular spaces in the cyst's wall, nor for the existence of an active transcellular fluid movement.", "contents": "Fine structure of arachnoid cysts. Recent studies of the fine structure of the cranial meninges of laboratory animals and man have shown that there is no subdural space. The latter is formed artificially by the tendency of meningeal tissues to cleave along a collagen-free zone, the dura-arachnoid interface layer. This layer is composed of an outer zone of dural border cells and an inner arachnoid barrier layer. The fine structure of nine arachnoid cysts was studied to determine the derivation of the cyst's wall from the various components of normal human meninges. A cleaved dura-arachnoid interface layer covered only the dome of the cyst where the latter had abutted the dura mater. The interface layer did not partake in forming the cyst's wall. The dominant phenomenon of the cyst's wall was an absence of the normal trabeculation of the subarachnoid space, the trabecules being replaced by tightly packed collagen fibrils and a few scattered cells in between. Some cells were layered discontinuously at the inner face of the cyst wall, but there was no organized inner lining. No evidence was found for either a tight sealing of the extracellular spaces in the cyst's wall, nor for the existence of an active transcellular fluid movement.", "PMID": 448402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8604", "title": "Recurrent transient ischemic attacks secondary to an embolizing saccular middle cerebral artery aneurysm. Case report.", "content": "Over a 1-year period, a 60-year-old woman had nine episodes of transient weakness, clumsiness, and hypesthesia of the right upper extremity. Angiography revealed normal extracranial vessels and a left middle cerebral artery aneurysm. The aneurysmal sac, removed at operation, had an organized thrombus, which was believed to be the cause of the transient ischemic attacks. Postoperatively, the patient has remained free of neurological symptoms.", "contents": "Recurrent transient ischemic attacks secondary to an embolizing saccular middle cerebral artery aneurysm. Case report. Over a 1-year period, a 60-year-old woman had nine episodes of transient weakness, clumsiness, and hypesthesia of the right upper extremity. Angiography revealed normal extracranial vessels and a left middle cerebral artery aneurysm. The aneurysmal sac, removed at operation, had an organized thrombus, which was believed to be the cause of the transient ischemic attacks. Postoperatively, the patient has remained free of neurological symptoms.", "PMID": 448403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8605", "title": "Cerebellar infarction resulting from traumatic occlusion of a vertebral artery. Case report.", "content": "A case is reported of a patient who suffered a gunshot wound of the neck which resulted in occlusion of a vertebral artery. Within a few hours he deteriorated neurologically to a comatose state with a gaze paresis and a facial paresis ipsilateral to the occluded vertebral artery. The diagnosis of cerebellar infarction with brain-stem compression was made clinically, and a posterior fossa decompression was carried out promptly. The patient has made an excellent recovery. Cerebellar infarction, like cerebellar hemorrhage, may act as a posterior fossa mass requiring neurosurgical decompression. This report emphasizes that such a pathological process may occur after certain injuries that are likely to result in occlusion of a vertebral artery.", "contents": "Cerebellar infarction resulting from traumatic occlusion of a vertebral artery. Case report. A case is reported of a patient who suffered a gunshot wound of the neck which resulted in occlusion of a vertebral artery. Within a few hours he deteriorated neurologically to a comatose state with a gaze paresis and a facial paresis ipsilateral to the occluded vertebral artery. The diagnosis of cerebellar infarction with brain-stem compression was made clinically, and a posterior fossa decompression was carried out promptly. The patient has made an excellent recovery. Cerebellar infarction, like cerebellar hemorrhage, may act as a posterior fossa mass requiring neurosurgical decompression. This report emphasizes that such a pathological process may occur after certain injuries that are likely to result in occlusion of a vertebral artery.", "PMID": 448405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8606", "title": "Empty sella secondary to suprasellar colloid cyst of foregut (respiratory) origin. Case report.", "content": "An enlarged sella turcica was discovered in a 40-year-old man who had bitemporal headaches. A pneumoencephalograph revealed a third ventricular cyst, dilated lateral ventricles, and an empty sella. The colloid cyst was lined by foregut epithelium, probably originating in the respiratory tract, and dense connective tissue. This case is the first instance of an empty sella associated with a colloid cyst of the third ventricle. It is proposed that enlargement of the mass in the third ventricle caused increased pulsation pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid, and that in the presence of an incompetent diaphragma sellae the subarachnoid space expanded into the sella. The origin of third ventricle cysts is reconsidered. It is concluded that suprasellar colloid cysts may arise from endoderm, ectoderm, neuroepithelium, or a combination of these epithelia.", "contents": "Empty sella secondary to suprasellar colloid cyst of foregut (respiratory) origin. Case report. An enlarged sella turcica was discovered in a 40-year-old man who had bitemporal headaches. A pneumoencephalograph revealed a third ventricular cyst, dilated lateral ventricles, and an empty sella. The colloid cyst was lined by foregut epithelium, probably originating in the respiratory tract, and dense connective tissue. This case is the first instance of an empty sella associated with a colloid cyst of the third ventricle. It is proposed that enlargement of the mass in the third ventricle caused increased pulsation pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid, and that in the presence of an incompetent diaphragma sellae the subarachnoid space expanded into the sella. The origin of third ventricle cysts is reconsidered. It is concluded that suprasellar colloid cysts may arise from endoderm, ectoderm, neuroepithelium, or a combination of these epithelia.", "PMID": 448406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8607", "title": "Primary epidural Ewing's sarcoma presenting as a lumbar disc protrusion. Case report.", "content": "Primary neoplasms of the spinal epidural space are uncommon. One of the rarest of these is a soft tissue sarcoma indistinguishable from Ewing's sarcoma of the bone. Only 39 such cases have been reported previously, of which only three arose within the epidural space. The authors report an additional case, which presented in an atypical manner, and review the pertinent literature.", "contents": "Primary epidural Ewing's sarcoma presenting as a lumbar disc protrusion. Case report. Primary neoplasms of the spinal epidural space are uncommon. One of the rarest of these is a soft tissue sarcoma indistinguishable from Ewing's sarcoma of the bone. Only 39 such cases have been reported previously, of which only three arose within the epidural space. The authors report an additional case, which presented in an atypical manner, and review the pertinent literature.", "PMID": 448409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8608", "title": "Relative cerebral glucose metabolism evoked by dental-pulp stimulation in the rat.", "content": "Electrical stimulation of dental pulp is widely acknowledged to produce a sensation that is predominantly or exclusively noxious in character. The authors report the pattern of local cerebral glucose utilization evoked by dental-pulp stimulation in the barbiturate-anesthetized rat, using the [14C]2-deoxyglucose method of Sokoloff. Autoradiographs were prepared from cryostat-cut brain sections of animals given an intravenous pulse of [14C]2-deoxyglucose and sacrificed after 45 minutes of continuous bipolar stimulation of the incisor tooth pulp. Areas of high optical density on the autoradiographs identified brain regions where glucose consumption, and hence functional activity, was maximal. Stimulus-related increases in glucose utilization were seen ipsilaterally in an uninterrupted column from the lower levels of trigeminal nucleus caudalis to the rostral extent of the main sensory nucleus. Mandibular incisor pulp stimulation yielded increased deoxyglucose uptake in relatively restricted dorsal portions of the nuclei, while maxillary pulp stimulation produced a more extensive area of uptake ventrally. Elevated deoxyglucose uptake was also seen in the contralateral ventrobasal thalamus and sensory cortex with maxillary, but not mandibular, pulp stimulation. No changes in metabolic activity were detected in extralemniscal or limbic structures. These initial results suggest that the [14C]2-deoxyglucose method may be a useful means of mapping central structures involved in nociception.", "contents": "Relative cerebral glucose metabolism evoked by dental-pulp stimulation in the rat. Electrical stimulation of dental pulp is widely acknowledged to produce a sensation that is predominantly or exclusively noxious in character. The authors report the pattern of local cerebral glucose utilization evoked by dental-pulp stimulation in the barbiturate-anesthetized rat, using the [14C]2-deoxyglucose method of Sokoloff. Autoradiographs were prepared from cryostat-cut brain sections of animals given an intravenous pulse of [14C]2-deoxyglucose and sacrificed after 45 minutes of continuous bipolar stimulation of the incisor tooth pulp. Areas of high optical density on the autoradiographs identified brain regions where glucose consumption, and hence functional activity, was maximal. Stimulus-related increases in glucose utilization were seen ipsilaterally in an uninterrupted column from the lower levels of trigeminal nucleus caudalis to the rostral extent of the main sensory nucleus. Mandibular incisor pulp stimulation yielded increased deoxyglucose uptake in relatively restricted dorsal portions of the nuclei, while maxillary pulp stimulation produced a more extensive area of uptake ventrally. Elevated deoxyglucose uptake was also seen in the contralateral ventrobasal thalamus and sensory cortex with maxillary, but not mandibular, pulp stimulation. No changes in metabolic activity were detected in extralemniscal or limbic structures. These initial results suggest that the [14C]2-deoxyglucose method may be a useful means of mapping central structures involved in nociception.", "PMID": 448408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8609", "title": "Intracranial aneurysms. Age, sex, blood pressure, and multiplicity in an unselected series of patients.", "content": "All cases of intracranial aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation, and subarachnoid hemorrhage of undetermined etiology seen at one hospital over a 13-year period were reviewed to assess relationships between age, sex, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and number of aneurysms. There were 350 patients, of whom 212 had aneurysms. The major findings were as follows: 1) Hypertension was not significantly more prevalent in the aneurysm population than in the age-matched general population, except for females aged 18 to 54 years (systolic pressure elevation of 10 to 15 mm Hg). 2) Under 55 years of age, both male and female hypertensive patients were twice as likely to have multiple aneurysms as normotensive patients. 3) Females were more likely than males to have multiple aneurysms. 4) For females but not males, increasing age, higher systolic pressure, and higher diastolic pressure all correlated with an increasing number of aneurysms. Hypertension appears to be more prevalent in certain subgroups of the total aneurysm population, although the individual relationships between hypertension, atherosclerosis, and aneurysms cannot be determined from either the present or previous studies. The possible role of familial factors, as well as implications for both diagnosis and further research, are briefly noted.", "contents": "Intracranial aneurysms. Age, sex, blood pressure, and multiplicity in an unselected series of patients. All cases of intracranial aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation, and subarachnoid hemorrhage of undetermined etiology seen at one hospital over a 13-year period were reviewed to assess relationships between age, sex, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and number of aneurysms. There were 350 patients, of whom 212 had aneurysms. The major findings were as follows: 1) Hypertension was not significantly more prevalent in the aneurysm population than in the age-matched general population, except for females aged 18 to 54 years (systolic pressure elevation of 10 to 15 mm Hg). 2) Under 55 years of age, both male and female hypertensive patients were twice as likely to have multiple aneurysms as normotensive patients. 3) Females were more likely than males to have multiple aneurysms. 4) For females but not males, increasing age, higher systolic pressure, and higher diastolic pressure all correlated with an increasing number of aneurysms. Hypertension appears to be more prevalent in certain subgroups of the total aneurysm population, although the individual relationships between hypertension, atherosclerosis, and aneurysms cannot be determined from either the present or previous studies. The possible role of familial factors, as well as implications for both diagnosis and further research, are briefly noted.", "PMID": 448414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8610", "title": "The effects of graded experimental trauma on cerebral blood flow and responsiveness to CO2.", "content": "The effects of graded mechanical cerebral trauma on cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 was studied in 26 cats. A fluid-wave percussion model was employed which delivered an epidural trauma of fixed duration and variable amplitude. The animals were maintained at arterial normoxia, with constant monitoring of intracranial and systemic arterial pressures, electroencephalograms, and end-tidal CO2. Following trauma, cerebral blood flow was measured using the H2 ion clearance technique at PaCO2 levels ranging sequentially from 20 to 60 mm Hg. Cerebrovascular reactivity for control animals (uninjured) was 2.7%. In the group with mild trauma (0.76 to 1.90 atm) reactivity was impaired (1.7%), and it was abolished in the severely injured group (2.90 to 4.60 atm). Mild injuries did not alter resting blood flows, while severe trauma resulted in a significant decrease in cerebrovascular resistance. Intracranial and systemic arterial pressures were altered proportionately to the level of cerebral injury. The authors propose that trauma to the brain-stem vasoregulatory centers accounts for these findings.", "contents": "The effects of graded experimental trauma on cerebral blood flow and responsiveness to CO2. The effects of graded mechanical cerebral trauma on cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 was studied in 26 cats. A fluid-wave percussion model was employed which delivered an epidural trauma of fixed duration and variable amplitude. The animals were maintained at arterial normoxia, with constant monitoring of intracranial and systemic arterial pressures, electroencephalograms, and end-tidal CO2. Following trauma, cerebral blood flow was measured using the H2 ion clearance technique at PaCO2 levels ranging sequentially from 20 to 60 mm Hg. Cerebrovascular reactivity for control animals (uninjured) was 2.7%. In the group with mild trauma (0.76 to 1.90 atm) reactivity was impaired (1.7%), and it was abolished in the severely injured group (2.90 to 4.60 atm). Mild injuries did not alter resting blood flows, while severe trauma resulted in a significant decrease in cerebrovascular resistance. Intracranial and systemic arterial pressures were altered proportionately to the level of cerebral injury. The authors propose that trauma to the brain-stem vasoregulatory centers accounts for these findings.", "PMID": 448413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8611", "title": "Surgical treatment of giant intracranial aneurysms.", "content": "The authors report the cases of 32 patients with aneurysms measuring 2.5 cm or greater in diameter found among 1080 patients with saccular cerebral aneurysms. Of the 32 patients, 24 patients were treated by direct operation, four by common carotid ligation, and the other four by conservative therapy. The appropriateness of surgery and surgical method are discussed.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of giant intracranial aneurysms. The authors report the cases of 32 patients with aneurysms measuring 2.5 cm or greater in diameter found among 1080 patients with saccular cerebral aneurysms. Of the 32 patients, 24 patients were treated by direct operation, four by common carotid ligation, and the other four by conservative therapy. The appropriateness of surgery and surgical method are discussed.", "PMID": 448415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8612", "title": "The two-stage excision of huge acoustic neurinomas.", "content": "Total removal of huge acoustic neurinomas was carried out in 23 patients by means of a two-stage suboccipital transmeatal approach with microsurgical technique. There was no operative mortality. Good results were obtained in 18 (78%) of the patients who have returned to normal activities or full-time employment. Five patients (22%) have residual preoperative neurological deficits causing a reduced level of activity. All of these, except one, are able to care for themselves. None of the patients has had any further significant neurological deficit caused by the operative procedures. Anatomical integrity of the facial nerve was maintained in 17 patients (74%). Surgical technique, operative morbidity, and results are thoroughly discussed. The potential advantages of this technique are stressed.", "contents": "The two-stage excision of huge acoustic neurinomas. Total removal of huge acoustic neurinomas was carried out in 23 patients by means of a two-stage suboccipital transmeatal approach with microsurgical technique. There was no operative mortality. Good results were obtained in 18 (78%) of the patients who have returned to normal activities or full-time employment. Five patients (22%) have residual preoperative neurological deficits causing a reduced level of activity. All of these, except one, are able to care for themselves. None of the patients has had any further significant neurological deficit caused by the operative procedures. Anatomical integrity of the facial nerve was maintained in 17 patients (74%). Surgical technique, operative morbidity, and results are thoroughly discussed. The potential advantages of this technique are stressed.", "PMID": 448416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8613", "title": "The specificity of serum prolactin as a diagnostic indicator of pituitary adenoma.", "content": "Serum prolactin levels were determined in 205 patients with a variety of intracranial diseases, including 70 cases with pituitary tumors. It is concluded that although the absence of elevated prolactin levels does not help to rule out pituitary pathology, the presence of hyperprolactinemia is highly specific for diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus, and prolactin determination should be part of the regular work-up of pituitary tumor suspects. Excluding known causes of hyperprolactinemia, such as tranquilizing drug ingestion, the presence of neurological disease outside the hypothalamic-pituitary area was not associated with increased serum prolactin concentrations.", "contents": "The specificity of serum prolactin as a diagnostic indicator of pituitary adenoma. Serum prolactin levels were determined in 205 patients with a variety of intracranial diseases, including 70 cases with pituitary tumors. It is concluded that although the absence of elevated prolactin levels does not help to rule out pituitary pathology, the presence of hyperprolactinemia is highly specific for diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus, and prolactin determination should be part of the regular work-up of pituitary tumor suspects. Excluding known causes of hyperprolactinemia, such as tranquilizing drug ingestion, the presence of neurological disease outside the hypothalamic-pituitary area was not associated with increased serum prolactin concentrations.", "PMID": 448417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8614", "title": "Capillary ultrastructure in human metastatic brain tumors.", "content": "The ultrastructural characteristics of blood vessels within 18 metastatic neoplasms of the brain have been studied. The abnormal permeability to protein-bound tracers was found to be related to defective capillary endothelium. Abnormalities include gap functions, fenestrations of membranes, and open normal junctions. The abnormal capillaries had the character of capillaries from current tissue. Endothelium cell abnormalities were not found in surrounding edematous brain.", "contents": "Capillary ultrastructure in human metastatic brain tumors. The ultrastructural characteristics of blood vessels within 18 metastatic neoplasms of the brain have been studied. The abnormal permeability to protein-bound tracers was found to be related to defective capillary endothelium. Abnormalities include gap functions, fenestrations of membranes, and open normal junctions. The abnormal capillaries had the character of capillaries from current tissue. Endothelium cell abnormalities were not found in surrounding edematous brain.", "PMID": 448419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8615", "title": "Cytotoxic antibody responses in astrocytoma patients. An improved allogeneic assay.", "content": "Early diagnosis of brain tumors may be facilitated by a microcytotoxicity assay which the authors have used to detect a humoral immune response against an allogeneic glioblastoma cell line. Sixty-seven of 82 serum samples (82%) from astrocytoma patients elicited significant cytotoxicity, while only six of 65 samples (9%) from normal blood-bank donors demonstrated a similar response. Positive results were more frequently obtained in lower-grade astrocytomas. Meningiomas, acoustic schwannomas, pituitary adenomas, and metastatic tumors were positive in variable numbers of cases. A small series of serum samples were platelet-absorbed to insure that cytotoxicity was not merely due to histocompatibility antigens, and seven of eight samples, when retested on the target cell line, remained significantly positive. The assays were performed under strictly monitored conditions that afforded optimum reliability and minimal experimental variability. As the specificity of this test increases, it may lead to early detection of astrocytomas.", "contents": "Cytotoxic antibody responses in astrocytoma patients. An improved allogeneic assay. Early diagnosis of brain tumors may be facilitated by a microcytotoxicity assay which the authors have used to detect a humoral immune response against an allogeneic glioblastoma cell line. Sixty-seven of 82 serum samples (82%) from astrocytoma patients elicited significant cytotoxicity, while only six of 65 samples (9%) from normal blood-bank donors demonstrated a similar response. Positive results were more frequently obtained in lower-grade astrocytomas. Meningiomas, acoustic schwannomas, pituitary adenomas, and metastatic tumors were positive in variable numbers of cases. A small series of serum samples were platelet-absorbed to insure that cytotoxicity was not merely due to histocompatibility antigens, and seven of eight samples, when retested on the target cell line, remained significantly positive. The assays were performed under strictly monitored conditions that afforded optimum reliability and minimal experimental variability. As the specificity of this test increases, it may lead to early detection of astrocytomas.", "PMID": 448418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8616", "title": "Influence of hypoxia on the composition of isolated edema fluid in cold-induced brain edema.", "content": "The isolation of edema fluid from cats with cold-induced cerebral edema allowed the study of changes of Na+ and K+ content, lactate dehydrogenase and creatine phosphokinase activity, colloid osmotic pressure and the level of intravenously administered 99mTc-albumin in the edema fluid during a period of hypoxia. The changes consisted of an increase of all mentioned parameters, except Na+; and could be interpreted as a concentration of solutes (but for Na+) in the extracellular edema fluid, concomitant to a reduction of the extracellular space, as the oxygen deficiency caused improper functioning of the cellular Na+-K+ pump, with a resulting shift of fluid (including Na+) into the cellular elements.", "contents": "Influence of hypoxia on the composition of isolated edema fluid in cold-induced brain edema. The isolation of edema fluid from cats with cold-induced cerebral edema allowed the study of changes of Na+ and K+ content, lactate dehydrogenase and creatine phosphokinase activity, colloid osmotic pressure and the level of intravenously administered 99mTc-albumin in the edema fluid during a period of hypoxia. The changes consisted of an increase of all mentioned parameters, except Na+; and could be interpreted as a concentration of solutes (but for Na+) in the extracellular edema fluid, concomitant to a reduction of the extracellular space, as the oxygen deficiency caused improper functioning of the cellular Na+-K+ pump, with a resulting shift of fluid (including Na+) into the cellular elements.", "PMID": 448421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8617", "title": "Relation of age and cerebral ventricle size to central canal in man. Morphological analysis.", "content": "The central canal of the spinal cord in man with and without hydrocephalus was studied histologically. The lumen was patent in most patients in the first two decades of life. Cells lining the canal in the prenatal and newborn state and in the first decade of life were predominantly pseudostratified ciliated epithelium. In the second decade, the epithelium became simple columnar or cuboidal. The central canal closed in most cases after the age of 20 years, secondary to proliferation of ependymal cells and astrocytes. Mechanisms whereby the number of glial cells increase are considered. The canal was closed in all adults with normal ventricular size, and in 94% of persons with various degrees of hydrocephalus. In the remaining 6% of cases with hydrocephalus, the lining of the canal resembled that seen in the first two decades, and could have acted as a pathway of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption. Three cases of severe hydrocephalus in the first two decades of life were encountered; the central canal was patent in one, and occluded in two. Based on these data, the canal was not a significant pathway of CSF absorption in most instances of hydrocephalus and in persons with dilated ventricles who were older than 20 years of age.", "contents": "Relation of age and cerebral ventricle size to central canal in man. Morphological analysis. The central canal of the spinal cord in man with and without hydrocephalus was studied histologically. The lumen was patent in most patients in the first two decades of life. Cells lining the canal in the prenatal and newborn state and in the first decade of life were predominantly pseudostratified ciliated epithelium. In the second decade, the epithelium became simple columnar or cuboidal. The central canal closed in most cases after the age of 20 years, secondary to proliferation of ependymal cells and astrocytes. Mechanisms whereby the number of glial cells increase are considered. The canal was closed in all adults with normal ventricular size, and in 94% of persons with various degrees of hydrocephalus. In the remaining 6% of cases with hydrocephalus, the lining of the canal resembled that seen in the first two decades, and could have acted as a pathway of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption. Three cases of severe hydrocephalus in the first two decades of life were encountered; the central canal was patent in one, and occluded in two. Based on these data, the canal was not a significant pathway of CSF absorption in most instances of hydrocephalus and in persons with dilated ventricles who were older than 20 years of age.", "PMID": 448422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8618", "title": "Recurrent subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with aminocaproic acid therapy and acute renal artery thrombosis. Case report.", "content": "Epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) has been used to prevent rebleeding in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Although this agent does decrease the frequency of rebleeding, several reports have described thrombotic complications of EACA therapy. These complications have included clinical deterioration and intracranial vascular thrombosis in patients with SAH, arteriolar and capillary fibrin thrombi in patients with fibrinolytic syndromes treated with EACA, or other thromboembolic phenomena. Since intravascular fibrin thrombi are often observed in patients with fibrinolytic disorders, EACA should not be implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrin thrombi in patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation or other \"consumption coagulopathies.\" This report describes subtotal infarction of the kidney due to thrombosis of a normal renal artery. This occlusion occurred after EACA therapy in a patient with SAH and histopathological documentation of recurrent SAH. The corresponding clinical event was characterized by marked hypertension and abrupt neurological deterioration.", "contents": "Recurrent subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with aminocaproic acid therapy and acute renal artery thrombosis. Case report. Epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) has been used to prevent rebleeding in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Although this agent does decrease the frequency of rebleeding, several reports have described thrombotic complications of EACA therapy. These complications have included clinical deterioration and intracranial vascular thrombosis in patients with SAH, arteriolar and capillary fibrin thrombi in patients with fibrinolytic syndromes treated with EACA, or other thromboembolic phenomena. Since intravascular fibrin thrombi are often observed in patients with fibrinolytic disorders, EACA should not be implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrin thrombi in patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation or other \"consumption coagulopathies.\" This report describes subtotal infarction of the kidney due to thrombosis of a normal renal artery. This occlusion occurred after EACA therapy in a patient with SAH and histopathological documentation of recurrent SAH. The corresponding clinical event was characterized by marked hypertension and abrupt neurological deterioration.", "PMID": 448423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8619", "title": "Direct surgical treatment of bilateral intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysms. Case report.", "content": "Bilateral intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysms are described in a 3-year-old child. The etiology was uncertain, although the aneurysms may have been mycotic. As there was clinical and radiological evidence of progressive enlargement of both aneurysms, the more conventional forms of treatment were not applicable. A direct surgical approach was made to both aneurysms with exploration of the intracavernous portion of the internal carotid artery under deep hypothermia and cardiac arrest.", "contents": "Direct surgical treatment of bilateral intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysms. Case report. Bilateral intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysms are described in a 3-year-old child. The etiology was uncertain, although the aneurysms may have been mycotic. As there was clinical and radiological evidence of progressive enlargement of both aneurysms, the more conventional forms of treatment were not applicable. A direct surgical approach was made to both aneurysms with exploration of the intracavernous portion of the internal carotid artery under deep hypothermia and cardiac arrest.", "PMID": 448424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8620", "title": "Management of extracranial carotid stenosis and intracranial aneurysms.", "content": "Twenty patients with extracranial carotid stenosis and intracranial aneurysms are reviewed. Fifteen of these patients had transient ischemic attacks (TIA's) and incidental aneurysms. The other five presented with symptoms referrable to an aneurysm, and angiography revealed significant carotid stenosis. None of the patients who presented with TIA's and underwent endarterectomy suffered subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, those patients who presented with symptoms referrable to an aneurysm and underwent endarterectomy seem to be at greater risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "contents": "Management of extracranial carotid stenosis and intracranial aneurysms. Twenty patients with extracranial carotid stenosis and intracranial aneurysms are reviewed. Fifteen of these patients had transient ischemic attacks (TIA's) and incidental aneurysms. The other five presented with symptoms referrable to an aneurysm, and angiography revealed significant carotid stenosis. None of the patients who presented with TIA's and underwent endarterectomy suffered subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, those patients who presented with symptoms referrable to an aneurysm and underwent endarterectomy seem to be at greater risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "PMID": 448425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8621", "title": "Some observations on aneurysms of the proximal internal carotid artery.", "content": "The author reports on 41 aneurysms of the proximal internal carotid artery (PICA) demonstrated in 36 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The patients included a striking preponderance of women, and there was a high incidence of multiple aneurysms. In cases with multiple aneurysms the PICA aneurysm was usually found incidentally, a more distal aneurysm on the internal carotid artery being the source of hemorrhage. An infundibulum at the origin of a posterior communicating artery was unusually common in these patients. The origin of the ophthalmic artery is proposed as the angiographic landmark of the level at which the internal carotid artery penetrates the dura mater.", "contents": "Some observations on aneurysms of the proximal internal carotid artery. The author reports on 41 aneurysms of the proximal internal carotid artery (PICA) demonstrated in 36 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The patients included a striking preponderance of women, and there was a high incidence of multiple aneurysms. In cases with multiple aneurysms the PICA aneurysm was usually found incidentally, a more distal aneurysm on the internal carotid artery being the source of hemorrhage. An infundibulum at the origin of a posterior communicating artery was unusually common in these patients. The origin of the ophthalmic artery is proposed as the angiographic landmark of the level at which the internal carotid artery penetrates the dura mater.", "PMID": 448426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8622", "title": "In vitro assay of contractile activities of spastic canine basilar artery and its surrounding blood clot.", "content": "A prolonged vasospasm was produced in the canine basilar artery by injection of fresh autogenous arterial blood into the chiasmatic cistern. Homogenates of lyophilized blood clot around the spastic artery, were made, and their contractile activities were studied in vitro. The homgenates of the lyophilized spastic arteries usually induced a dose dependent sustained contraction, whereas those of the lyophilized normal arteries often produced a dose-dependent transient contraction, and those of the lyophilized blood clot induced a dose-dependent transient or sustained contraction. The initial maximum contractions produced by the homogenates of the lyophilized normal and spastic arteries were significantly different in their values, suggesting the presence of a vasoactive agent in the spastic artery itself. Preliminary pharmacological analysis of the vasoactive agent was attempted using methysergide and phentolamine.", "contents": "In vitro assay of contractile activities of spastic canine basilar artery and its surrounding blood clot. A prolonged vasospasm was produced in the canine basilar artery by injection of fresh autogenous arterial blood into the chiasmatic cistern. Homogenates of lyophilized blood clot around the spastic artery, were made, and their contractile activities were studied in vitro. The homgenates of the lyophilized spastic arteries usually induced a dose dependent sustained contraction, whereas those of the lyophilized normal arteries often produced a dose-dependent transient contraction, and those of the lyophilized blood clot induced a dose-dependent transient or sustained contraction. The initial maximum contractions produced by the homogenates of the lyophilized normal and spastic arteries were significantly different in their values, suggesting the presence of a vasoactive agent in the spastic artery itself. Preliminary pharmacological analysis of the vasoactive agent was attempted using methysergide and phentolamine.", "PMID": 448427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8623", "title": "Percussive injury to peripheral nerve in rats.", "content": "Weights were dropped on rat sciatic nerves. Teased fibers and light and electron micrographs of nerves removed between 10 minutes and 2 weeks later were examined. Axonal alterations were seen 10 minutes after injury, and subsequently interruption of axonal continuity with preservation of the basal lamina was apparent. Dissolution of myelin began within 30 minutes and progressed. At 14 days, a segment of some large fibers was devoid of myelin and, by 2 weeks, remyelination had commenced. Demyelination of significant number of fibers was always accompanied by Wallerian degeneration of other fibers of the same nerve. Percussive injury of nerves caused a mixed lesion in which the early and late pathological features were clearly distinguishable from those following crush or compression by a cuff. Any explanation of the transient interruption of function that has been described following such an injury is at present speculative.", "contents": "Percussive injury to peripheral nerve in rats. Weights were dropped on rat sciatic nerves. Teased fibers and light and electron micrographs of nerves removed between 10 minutes and 2 weeks later were examined. Axonal alterations were seen 10 minutes after injury, and subsequently interruption of axonal continuity with preservation of the basal lamina was apparent. Dissolution of myelin began within 30 minutes and progressed. At 14 days, a segment of some large fibers was devoid of myelin and, by 2 weeks, remyelination had commenced. Demyelination of significant number of fibers was always accompanied by Wallerian degeneration of other fibers of the same nerve. Percussive injury of nerves caused a mixed lesion in which the early and late pathological features were clearly distinguishable from those following crush or compression by a cuff. Any explanation of the transient interruption of function that has been described following such an injury is at present speculative.", "PMID": 448428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8624", "title": "Cavernous hemangioma of the orbit.", "content": "The clinical and pathological data of 66 patients with orbital cavernous hemangioma are presented. This tumor occurs in females more frequently than in males, and has its peak incidence in early middle age. Visual disability results from a high degree of relative hyperopia or from optic-nerve compression. Postural or temporal variation is proptosis is not characteristic. Multiple cavernous hemangiomas are rare, but may occur simultaneously or separated by long intervals. In this series, incompletely excised lesions did not cause recurrent proptosis. Relative hyperopia may persist, in spite of complete removal of the tumor. Improved preoperative localization with modern techniques appears to be reducing the morbidity associated with surgical excision of the lesion. A local hemodynamic disturbance may initiate proliferation of vascular channels that undergo progressive ectasia. Growth of the lesion may occur intrinsically by the budding-off of capillary channels from cavernous spaces into the interstitium. Clinical and pathological findings fail to demonstrate any relationship between this lesion and capillary hemangioma of childhood.", "contents": "Cavernous hemangioma of the orbit. The clinical and pathological data of 66 patients with orbital cavernous hemangioma are presented. This tumor occurs in females more frequently than in males, and has its peak incidence in early middle age. Visual disability results from a high degree of relative hyperopia or from optic-nerve compression. Postural or temporal variation is proptosis is not characteristic. Multiple cavernous hemangiomas are rare, but may occur simultaneously or separated by long intervals. In this series, incompletely excised lesions did not cause recurrent proptosis. Relative hyperopia may persist, in spite of complete removal of the tumor. Improved preoperative localization with modern techniques appears to be reducing the morbidity associated with surgical excision of the lesion. A local hemodynamic disturbance may initiate proliferation of vascular channels that undergo progressive ectasia. Growth of the lesion may occur intrinsically by the budding-off of capillary channels from cavernous spaces into the interstitium. Clinical and pathological findings fail to demonstrate any relationship between this lesion and capillary hemangioma of childhood.", "PMID": 448430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8625", "title": "A new method for testing the force of clips for aneurysms or experimental spinal cord compression.", "content": "A new method is described for the determination of force-distance curves for aneurysm clips. A dissecting microscope with a goniometer eyepiece was used to determine the angle between the clip blades as various forces were applied to open the clip. The cosine law was then used to calculate the force-distance curves. The method allows accurate characterization of different clips and is especially useful for the early detection of clip weakening.", "contents": "A new method for testing the force of clips for aneurysms or experimental spinal cord compression. A new method is described for the determination of force-distance curves for aneurysm clips. A dissecting microscope with a goniometer eyepiece was used to determine the angle between the clip blades as various forces were applied to open the clip. The cosine law was then used to calculate the force-distance curves. The method allows accurate characterization of different clips and is especially useful for the early detection of clip weakening.", "PMID": 448431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8626", "title": "Familial lumbar spinal stenosis with acute disc herniations. Case reports of four brothers.", "content": "The case histories are reported of four brothers with lumbosciatic syndrome due to acute disc herniations, and associated spinal stenosis. Hereditary factors, although not hitherto reported, may be implicated for these spinal lesions, as the parents had also undergone spinal operations previously.", "contents": "Familial lumbar spinal stenosis with acute disc herniations. Case reports of four brothers. The case histories are reported of four brothers with lumbosciatic syndrome due to acute disc herniations, and associated spinal stenosis. Hereditary factors, although not hitherto reported, may be implicated for these spinal lesions, as the parents had also undergone spinal operations previously.", "PMID": 448432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8627", "title": "Congenital astrocytoma presenting with intracerebral hematoma. Case report.", "content": "A massive left intracerebral hematoma was surgically evacuated from a 2-week-old infant. Pathological examination showed that the hemorrhage had developed within a fibrillary astrocytoma. Neonatal intracerebral hemorrhage should raise the question of congenital tumor because such a hemorrhage in this age group is rarely the result of trauma, bleeding diathesis, or vascular malformation.", "contents": "Congenital astrocytoma presenting with intracerebral hematoma. Case report. A massive left intracerebral hematoma was surgically evacuated from a 2-week-old infant. Pathological examination showed that the hemorrhage had developed within a fibrillary astrocytoma. Neonatal intracerebral hemorrhage should raise the question of congenital tumor because such a hemorrhage in this age group is rarely the result of trauma, bleeding diathesis, or vascular malformation.", "PMID": 448433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8628", "title": "Enlarging histoplasmomas following treatment of meningitis due to Histoplasma capsulatum Case report.", "content": "This report describes a case in which an intracranial histoplasmoma was successfully treated with surgical removal and amphotericin B. This is the third reported case of its kind. The authors discuss problems of preoperative diagnosis in a patient with depressed cell-mediated immunity, and no evidence of extracerebral dissemination.", "contents": "Enlarging histoplasmomas following treatment of meningitis due to Histoplasma capsulatum Case report. This report describes a case in which an intracranial histoplasmoma was successfully treated with surgical removal and amphotericin B. This is the third reported case of its kind. The authors discuss problems of preoperative diagnosis in a patient with depressed cell-mediated immunity, and no evidence of extracerebral dissemination.", "PMID": 448434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8629", "title": "Vancomycin treatment of cerebrospinal fluid shunt infections. Report of two cases.", "content": "The successful use of vancomycin is reported in two children with shunt infections due to Staphylococcus epidermidis which failed to respond to shunt removal. The previously reported experience with this drug is reviewed. The use of vancomycin should be considered in cases of shunt infections due to susceptible microorganisms and refractory to other therapeutic measures.", "contents": "Vancomycin treatment of cerebrospinal fluid shunt infections. Report of two cases. The successful use of vancomycin is reported in two children with shunt infections due to Staphylococcus epidermidis which failed to respond to shunt removal. The previously reported experience with this drug is reviewed. The use of vancomycin should be considered in cases of shunt infections due to susceptible microorganisms and refractory to other therapeutic measures.", "PMID": 448435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8630", "title": "Excision of a brain-stem epidermoid cyst. Case report.", "content": "An intra-axial epidermoid cyst of the brain stem is presented. X-ray studies revealed a mass within the brain stem; computerized tomography showed the mass to be cystic. The epidermoid cyst was successfully removed surgically. Six months after operation the patient is stable with sixth and seventh nerve palsies but resolution of right spastic hemiparesis.", "contents": "Excision of a brain-stem epidermoid cyst. Case report. An intra-axial epidermoid cyst of the brain stem is presented. X-ray studies revealed a mass within the brain stem; computerized tomography showed the mass to be cystic. The epidermoid cyst was successfully removed surgically. Six months after operation the patient is stable with sixth and seventh nerve palsies but resolution of right spastic hemiparesis.", "PMID": 448436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8631", "title": "Acute spontaneous otorrhagia resulting from a ruptured petrous carotid aneurysm. Case report.", "content": "A 35-year-old man experienced sudden spontaneous arterial bleeding from his left ear. Arteriography demonstrated a left petrous carotid aneurysm. The bleeding was initially controlled with packing and ultimately by left common carotid ligation and transection.", "contents": "Acute spontaneous otorrhagia resulting from a ruptured petrous carotid aneurysm. Case report. A 35-year-old man experienced sudden spontaneous arterial bleeding from his left ear. Arteriography demonstrated a left petrous carotid aneurysm. The bleeding was initially controlled with packing and ultimately by left common carotid ligation and transection.", "PMID": 448437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8632", "title": "Influence of vitamin B-6 upon reproduction and upon plasma and egg cholesterol in chickens.", "content": "Vitamin B-6 deficiency in the laying hen causes an immediate anorexia, loss of body weight, greatly reduced body fat stores and severe effects upon primary and secondary sex characteristics resulting in severely reduced hatchability culminating in complete cessation of egg production. While inanition may have been largely responsible for involution of the ovaries and oviducts in the vitamin B-6 deficient hens, regression of combs and wattles appears to be a more specific sign of vitamin B-6 deficiency. Serum cholesterol levels of vitamin B-6-deficient hens were lower than those of hens receiving an adequate diet. Egg cholesterol values remained relatively constant regardless of dietary B-6 levels or of alterations in serum cholesterol. No ataxia or mortality was observed in vitamin B-6-deficient hens or roosters. The effects of vitamin B-6 deficiency were almost completely reversed upon repletion of the hens with adequate dietary vitamin B-6.", "contents": "Influence of vitamin B-6 upon reproduction and upon plasma and egg cholesterol in chickens. Vitamin B-6 deficiency in the laying hen causes an immediate anorexia, loss of body weight, greatly reduced body fat stores and severe effects upon primary and secondary sex characteristics resulting in severely reduced hatchability culminating in complete cessation of egg production. While inanition may have been largely responsible for involution of the ovaries and oviducts in the vitamin B-6 deficient hens, regression of combs and wattles appears to be a more specific sign of vitamin B-6 deficiency. Serum cholesterol levels of vitamin B-6-deficient hens were lower than those of hens receiving an adequate diet. Egg cholesterol values remained relatively constant regardless of dietary B-6 levels or of alterations in serum cholesterol. No ataxia or mortality was observed in vitamin B-6-deficient hens or roosters. The effects of vitamin B-6 deficiency were almost completely reversed upon repletion of the hens with adequate dietary vitamin B-6.", "PMID": 448440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8633", "title": "Effects of guar gum and wheat bran on lipid metabolism of rats.", "content": "The effects of guar gum and wheat bran on blood and liver lipid levels of rats were measured. In experiment 1, rats were fed ad libitum a 55% sucrose diet containing 0, 15 or 25% wheat bran for 3 weeks. Postprandial plasma triglyceride, liver triglyceride and liver cholesterol values in rats fed the sucrose diet with wheat bran were significantly lower than values for rats fed the diet without wheat bran. Neither fasting plasma triglyceride nor cholesterol values were altered by wheat bran. In experiment 2, rats were meal-fed one of four experimental diets for 3 weeks: sucrose, sucrose-cholesterol, sucrose-cholesterol-bran or sucrose-cholesterol-guar gum. Rats fed sucrose-cholesterol-guar gum diet had significantly lower fasting plasma total cholesterol, liver triglyceride and liver cholesterol values, but higher plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol values than those fed sucrose-cholesterol diet. These values were similar for the sucrose-cholesterol and sucrose-cholesterol-bran groups. Fasting plasma triglyceride levels were not altered by wheat bran or guar gum. These studies indicate that while guar gum lowers fasting plasma total cholesterol and raises HDL cholesterol, wheat bran does not.", "contents": "Effects of guar gum and wheat bran on lipid metabolism of rats. The effects of guar gum and wheat bran on blood and liver lipid levels of rats were measured. In experiment 1, rats were fed ad libitum a 55% sucrose diet containing 0, 15 or 25% wheat bran for 3 weeks. Postprandial plasma triglyceride, liver triglyceride and liver cholesterol values in rats fed the sucrose diet with wheat bran were significantly lower than values for rats fed the diet without wheat bran. Neither fasting plasma triglyceride nor cholesterol values were altered by wheat bran. In experiment 2, rats were meal-fed one of four experimental diets for 3 weeks: sucrose, sucrose-cholesterol, sucrose-cholesterol-bran or sucrose-cholesterol-guar gum. Rats fed sucrose-cholesterol-guar gum diet had significantly lower fasting plasma total cholesterol, liver triglyceride and liver cholesterol values, but higher plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol values than those fed sucrose-cholesterol diet. These values were similar for the sucrose-cholesterol and sucrose-cholesterol-bran groups. Fasting plasma triglyceride levels were not altered by wheat bran or guar gum. These studies indicate that while guar gum lowers fasting plasma total cholesterol and raises HDL cholesterol, wheat bran does not.", "PMID": 448441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8634", "title": "The effects of dietary self-selection upon the overshoot phenomenon in starved-refed rats.", "content": "The food intake, liver composition and hepatic activity of pyruvate kinase (PK), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-DH), malic enzyme (ME) and acetyl CoA carboxylase (AcCoA Cx) were studied in starved-refed rats. When rats were refed a mixed diet for 3 days, food intake significantly increased (by 33%) from day 1 to 3 and the glycogen accumulation was maximal after 24 hours, but decreased significantly by day 3 (by 34%). In contrast, liver triglycerides sharply increased (10-fold) from day 1 to 3. Furthermore, during refeeding a large increase of G6P-DH, ME and AcCoA Cx was reached on day 3 when the average activity was 5.5- to 6.5-fold higher than before fasting. When rats were refed under conditions of self-selection (carbohydrates, lipids and proteins) total food intake was the same each day, but lipid and carbohydrate intakes varied reciprocally: lipid intake decreased whereas carbohydrate consumption increased during the 3 day refeeding period. Liver glycogen level was unchanged and both the triglyceride accumulation and the overshoot of lipogenic enzymes were highly attenuated: on day 3, they reached 50% of values observed in mixed diet refed rats. Administration of 8-azaguanine during refeeding under self-selecting conditions lowered food intake but had no effect on the pattern of food intake on the first day. In the following days, lipid intake fell dramatically. Azaguanine does not alter liver glycogenesis, but prevents both liver triglyceride accumulation and the overshoot of lipogenic enzymes.", "contents": "The effects of dietary self-selection upon the overshoot phenomenon in starved-refed rats. The food intake, liver composition and hepatic activity of pyruvate kinase (PK), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-DH), malic enzyme (ME) and acetyl CoA carboxylase (AcCoA Cx) were studied in starved-refed rats. When rats were refed a mixed diet for 3 days, food intake significantly increased (by 33%) from day 1 to 3 and the glycogen accumulation was maximal after 24 hours, but decreased significantly by day 3 (by 34%). In contrast, liver triglycerides sharply increased (10-fold) from day 1 to 3. Furthermore, during refeeding a large increase of G6P-DH, ME and AcCoA Cx was reached on day 3 when the average activity was 5.5- to 6.5-fold higher than before fasting. When rats were refed under conditions of self-selection (carbohydrates, lipids and proteins) total food intake was the same each day, but lipid and carbohydrate intakes varied reciprocally: lipid intake decreased whereas carbohydrate consumption increased during the 3 day refeeding period. Liver glycogen level was unchanged and both the triglyceride accumulation and the overshoot of lipogenic enzymes were highly attenuated: on day 3, they reached 50% of values observed in mixed diet refed rats. Administration of 8-azaguanine during refeeding under self-selecting conditions lowered food intake but had no effect on the pattern of food intake on the first day. In the following days, lipid intake fell dramatically. Azaguanine does not alter liver glycogenesis, but prevents both liver triglyceride accumulation and the overshoot of lipogenic enzymes.", "PMID": 448442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8635", "title": "Tissue-specific incorporation of positional isomers of dietary cis- and trans-octadecenoic acids in the rat.", "content": "The total lipids of liver, heart, blood serum, adipose tissue, testes and adrenals of rats fed a partially hydrogenated fat were found to contain each of the dietary delta 5- to delta 15- cis- and delta 3- to delta 16- trans-octadecenoic acids. The pattern of incorporation of individual isomeric octadecenoic acids was found to be specific for the different tissues. trans-Isomers were preferentially incorporated into liver and heart, whereas cis-isomers were enriched in the testes. The composition of positional isomers of both cis- and trans-octadecenoic acids in adipose tissue, testes and adrenals was similar to that of the dietary lipids, whereas the corresponding compositions in liver, heart and serum were distinctly different. Thus, within the series of cis-octadecenoic acids, less oleic acid (delta 9-isomer) and correspondingly higher proportions of vaccenic acid (delta 11-isomer) were found in liver and heart than in the dietary lipids. Within the series of trans-octadecenoic acids, the isomers ranging from delta 12 to delta 16, especially the delta 14-isomer, were preferentially incorporated into liver, heart and serum, whereas the delta 10- and delta 11-isomers, were distinctly excluded from these tissues.", "contents": "Tissue-specific incorporation of positional isomers of dietary cis- and trans-octadecenoic acids in the rat. The total lipids of liver, heart, blood serum, adipose tissue, testes and adrenals of rats fed a partially hydrogenated fat were found to contain each of the dietary delta 5- to delta 15- cis- and delta 3- to delta 16- trans-octadecenoic acids. The pattern of incorporation of individual isomeric octadecenoic acids was found to be specific for the different tissues. trans-Isomers were preferentially incorporated into liver and heart, whereas cis-isomers were enriched in the testes. The composition of positional isomers of both cis- and trans-octadecenoic acids in adipose tissue, testes and adrenals was similar to that of the dietary lipids, whereas the corresponding compositions in liver, heart and serum were distinctly different. Thus, within the series of cis-octadecenoic acids, less oleic acid (delta 9-isomer) and correspondingly higher proportions of vaccenic acid (delta 11-isomer) were found in liver and heart than in the dietary lipids. Within the series of trans-octadecenoic acids, the isomers ranging from delta 12 to delta 16, especially the delta 14-isomer, were preferentially incorporated into liver, heart and serum, whereas the delta 10- and delta 11-isomers, were distinctly excluded from these tissues.", "PMID": 448443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8636", "title": "Effect of dietary methionine and arginine on uric acid excretion of cocks fed a protein-free diet.", "content": "Cocks were fed a protein-free diet supplemented with methionine plus arginine or glutamic acid for 25 days to investigate the effect of these amino acids on fecal and urinary nitrogen excretion. Addition of either methionine plus arginine or glutamic acid did not change the fecal nitrogen excretion. Methionine plus arginine supplementation reduced the urniary nitrogen excretion compared to the protein-free diet, whereas glutamic acid supplementation increased it. The reduced urinary nitrogen excretion resulting from supplementation with methionine plus arginine was mostly accounted for by a reduction in uric acid excretion. In the methionine plus arginine group, free amino acid analysis showed that free glutamine and glutamic acid content significantly decreased in liver while no differences were found in plasma. Since glutamine may play an important role in the formation of uric acid for chickens, the reduced amount of free glutamine and glutamic acid in the liver of cocks fed the diet suplemented with methionine plus arginine might account for the reduced excretion of uric acid, and therefore for the nitrogen sparing action of methionine plus arginine in chickens fed a protein-free diet.", "contents": "Effect of dietary methionine and arginine on uric acid excretion of cocks fed a protein-free diet. Cocks were fed a protein-free diet supplemented with methionine plus arginine or glutamic acid for 25 days to investigate the effect of these amino acids on fecal and urinary nitrogen excretion. Addition of either methionine plus arginine or glutamic acid did not change the fecal nitrogen excretion. Methionine plus arginine supplementation reduced the urniary nitrogen excretion compared to the protein-free diet, whereas glutamic acid supplementation increased it. The reduced urinary nitrogen excretion resulting from supplementation with methionine plus arginine was mostly accounted for by a reduction in uric acid excretion. In the methionine plus arginine group, free amino acid analysis showed that free glutamine and glutamic acid content significantly decreased in liver while no differences were found in plasma. Since glutamine may play an important role in the formation of uric acid for chickens, the reduced amount of free glutamine and glutamic acid in the liver of cocks fed the diet suplemented with methionine plus arginine might account for the reduced excretion of uric acid, and therefore for the nitrogen sparing action of methionine plus arginine in chickens fed a protein-free diet.", "PMID": 448444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8637", "title": "Association between plasma and liver vitamin A levels in the calf; weanling pig, rabbit and rat; and adult goat fed fixed intakes of vitamin A.", "content": "To reexamine the relationship between plasma and liver vitamin A levels, data from various species of animals fed fixed intakes of vitamin A ester (expressed as retinol equivalents/kg liver weight/day) were vitamin A ester (expressed as retinol equivalents/kg live weight/day) were studied. The intakes ranging from deficient to toxic were for 48 calves, 4 to 17,600 micrograms; 39 pigs, 17.6 to 19,842 micrograms; 86 rabbits, 4.5 to 287 micrograms; 138 rats, 4 to 16,384 micrograms; and 40 goats, 1 to 17,640 micrograms. Following the feeding of these intakes for periods of between 5 and 133 weeks, blood and liver samples were taken for vitamin A determinations. Plasma vitamin A concentrations reached minimum values at low liver vitamin A levels whereas liver vitamin A levels reached maximum values at high plasma vitamin A concentrations. Upon elimination of data pairs at the extremes, linear regressions of log10 (total liver vitamin A) on plasma vitamin A concentrations and of plasma vitamin A concentrations on log10 (total liver vitamin A) were statistically significant. Therefore it was possible to estimate within limits the log10 (total liver vitamin A) from plasma vitamin A. Applicable limits were for the calf 8 to 46 micrograms/100 ml of plasma, for the pig 14 to 32, for the rabbit 14 to 74, for the rat 5 to 51 and for the goat 22 to 55. Simple correlation coefficients were 0.92, 0.60, 0.93, 0.92 and 0.75.", "contents": "Association between plasma and liver vitamin A levels in the calf; weanling pig, rabbit and rat; and adult goat fed fixed intakes of vitamin A. To reexamine the relationship between plasma and liver vitamin A levels, data from various species of animals fed fixed intakes of vitamin A ester (expressed as retinol equivalents/kg liver weight/day) were vitamin A ester (expressed as retinol equivalents/kg live weight/day) were studied. The intakes ranging from deficient to toxic were for 48 calves, 4 to 17,600 micrograms; 39 pigs, 17.6 to 19,842 micrograms; 86 rabbits, 4.5 to 287 micrograms; 138 rats, 4 to 16,384 micrograms; and 40 goats, 1 to 17,640 micrograms. Following the feeding of these intakes for periods of between 5 and 133 weeks, blood and liver samples were taken for vitamin A determinations. Plasma vitamin A concentrations reached minimum values at low liver vitamin A levels whereas liver vitamin A levels reached maximum values at high plasma vitamin A concentrations. Upon elimination of data pairs at the extremes, linear regressions of log10 (total liver vitamin A) on plasma vitamin A concentrations and of plasma vitamin A concentrations on log10 (total liver vitamin A) were statistically significant. Therefore it was possible to estimate within limits the log10 (total liver vitamin A) from plasma vitamin A. Applicable limits were for the calf 8 to 46 micrograms/100 ml of plasma, for the pig 14 to 32, for the rabbit 14 to 74, for the rat 5 to 51 and for the goat 22 to 55. Simple correlation coefficients were 0.92, 0.60, 0.93, 0.92 and 0.75.", "PMID": 448445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8638", "title": "Plasma lipid and lipoprotein responses of rats to starch and sucrose diets with and without brewer's yeast.", "content": "The effect of starch and sucrose diets, with and without brewer's yeast, on plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride concentration and on the lipoprotein distribution in plasma was studied in male rats. The rats were fed a cereal based stock diet, a starch or a sucrose diet, plus or minus brewer's yeast, for 4 weeks. The plasma cholesterol concentration increased to similar levels in rats fed the starch or the sucrose diets but remained unchanged in rats fed the stock diet. The plasma triglyceride level increased in rats fed stock diet, but was unchanged in those fed starch or sucrose diets. Brewer's yeast did not modify the cholesterol value in any of the three groups but reduced the triglyceride level in rats fed the stock and the starch diets. In rats fed the starch diet there was a reduction in the relative amount of prebeta lipoproteins, but no significant alterations in the beta, prealpha and alpha fractions, as compared with rats fed stock diet. Rats fed the sucrose diet had lower prebeta, beta and alpha lipoprotein percentages and a much higher prealpha percentage than rats fed the stock diet. Brewer's yeast had no consistent effects on the lipoprotein distribution. The results support the contention that there might be a dissociation between dietary effects on the plasma lipid level and on the lipoprotein distribution.", "contents": "Plasma lipid and lipoprotein responses of rats to starch and sucrose diets with and without brewer's yeast. The effect of starch and sucrose diets, with and without brewer's yeast, on plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride concentration and on the lipoprotein distribution in plasma was studied in male rats. The rats were fed a cereal based stock diet, a starch or a sucrose diet, plus or minus brewer's yeast, for 4 weeks. The plasma cholesterol concentration increased to similar levels in rats fed the starch or the sucrose diets but remained unchanged in rats fed the stock diet. The plasma triglyceride level increased in rats fed stock diet, but was unchanged in those fed starch or sucrose diets. Brewer's yeast did not modify the cholesterol value in any of the three groups but reduced the triglyceride level in rats fed the stock and the starch diets. In rats fed the starch diet there was a reduction in the relative amount of prebeta lipoproteins, but no significant alterations in the beta, prealpha and alpha fractions, as compared with rats fed stock diet. Rats fed the sucrose diet had lower prebeta, beta and alpha lipoprotein percentages and a much higher prealpha percentage than rats fed the stock diet. Brewer's yeast had no consistent effects on the lipoprotein distribution. The results support the contention that there might be a dissociation between dietary effects on the plasma lipid level and on the lipoprotein distribution.", "PMID": 448446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8639", "title": "Alterations of short-term tastant-containing fluid intake in zinc deficient adult rats.", "content": "Previous studies have demonstrated that zinc deficient rats have elevated taste preferences for tastant-containing solutions normally preferred or rejected by zinc sufficient rats when tested in a two-bottle, 24-hour procedure. Since that test does not control for postingestional determinants upon fluid consumption, we employed a two-bottle, 1-hour test combined with a restricted 3-hour eating period to evaluate taste preferences in seven rats fed a zinc deficient (1.3 ppm zinc) diet and nine rats pair-fed a zinc sufficient diet (100 ppm zinc). After 31 days of feeding, all rats were tested for 2 days (1 hour/day) with a choice between water and each of the following solutions: 0.15 M sodium chloride (NaCl), 2.5 X 10(-3) M Hydrochloric acid (HCl), 0.15 M NaCl, 2.5 X 10(-3) M HCl, 1.28 X 10(-6) M quinine sulfate (QS), 0.30 M NaCl and 1.28 X 10(p6) M QS. The zinc deficient rats demonstrated significantly greater preferences for all of the tastant-containing solutions but showed both significant increases and decreases in total volume intakes. Analysis of the individual water and tastant-containing fluid intakes demonstrated that the zinc sufficient rats consumed significantly more water but significantly less tastant-containing fluid than the zinc deficient rats. These results demonstrate that the increased preferences of zinc deficient rats may be related to preingestional, i.e., taste, rather than postingestion cues.", "contents": "Alterations of short-term tastant-containing fluid intake in zinc deficient adult rats. Previous studies have demonstrated that zinc deficient rats have elevated taste preferences for tastant-containing solutions normally preferred or rejected by zinc sufficient rats when tested in a two-bottle, 24-hour procedure. Since that test does not control for postingestional determinants upon fluid consumption, we employed a two-bottle, 1-hour test combined with a restricted 3-hour eating period to evaluate taste preferences in seven rats fed a zinc deficient (1.3 ppm zinc) diet and nine rats pair-fed a zinc sufficient diet (100 ppm zinc). After 31 days of feeding, all rats were tested for 2 days (1 hour/day) with a choice between water and each of the following solutions: 0.15 M sodium chloride (NaCl), 2.5 X 10(-3) M Hydrochloric acid (HCl), 0.15 M NaCl, 2.5 X 10(-3) M HCl, 1.28 X 10(-6) M quinine sulfate (QS), 0.30 M NaCl and 1.28 X 10(p6) M QS. The zinc deficient rats demonstrated significantly greater preferences for all of the tastant-containing solutions but showed both significant increases and decreases in total volume intakes. Analysis of the individual water and tastant-containing fluid intakes demonstrated that the zinc sufficient rats consumed significantly more water but significantly less tastant-containing fluid than the zinc deficient rats. These results demonstrate that the increased preferences of zinc deficient rats may be related to preingestional, i.e., taste, rather than postingestion cues.", "PMID": 448447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8640", "title": "Regulation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme in liver and adipose tissue: effect of dietary trilinolein level in starved-refed and ad libitum-fed rats.", "content": "The responses of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) (EC 1.1.1.49) and malic enzyme (ME) (EC 1.1.1.40) were studied in liver and adipose tissue of rats fed for 2 days a high glucose diet containing levels of synthetic trilinolein ranging from 0 to 25% (w/w) of the diet (trilinolein was substituted for glucose). One group of rats was starved for 2 days before the trilinolein-containing diets were fed (starved-refed); a second group of rats was fed a fat-free diet for 7 days before the trilinolein-containing diets were fed (ad libitum). Liver G6PD activity decreased exponentially and liver ME activity decreased linearly with increasing dietary trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but did not decrease significantly in ad libitum fed rats. Total liver lipid decreased exponentially with increasing trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but increased exponentially in ad libitum fed rats. Adipose tissue G6PD and ME activities decreased slightly with increasing trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but did not decrease in ad libitum fed rats. When the data were adjusted by analysis of covariance for differences in glucose intake, the liver responses in starved-refed rats were still significant but the adipose tissue responses were not, indicating that the responses of adipose tissue (but not of liver) may have resulted from decreased glucose intake rather than from increased trilinolein intake. The results suggest that dietary trilinolein inhibits the characteristic increase in liver G6PD, ME and total lipids upon starvation-refeeding. However, after the levels of these parameters have been increased by feeding a fat-free diet they cannot be decreased by dietary trilinolein in 2 days.", "contents": "Regulation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme in liver and adipose tissue: effect of dietary trilinolein level in starved-refed and ad libitum-fed rats. The responses of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) (EC 1.1.1.49) and malic enzyme (ME) (EC 1.1.1.40) were studied in liver and adipose tissue of rats fed for 2 days a high glucose diet containing levels of synthetic trilinolein ranging from 0 to 25% (w/w) of the diet (trilinolein was substituted for glucose). One group of rats was starved for 2 days before the trilinolein-containing diets were fed (starved-refed); a second group of rats was fed a fat-free diet for 7 days before the trilinolein-containing diets were fed (ad libitum). Liver G6PD activity decreased exponentially and liver ME activity decreased linearly with increasing dietary trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but did not decrease significantly in ad libitum fed rats. Total liver lipid decreased exponentially with increasing trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but increased exponentially in ad libitum fed rats. Adipose tissue G6PD and ME activities decreased slightly with increasing trilinolein in starved-refed rats, but did not decrease in ad libitum fed rats. When the data were adjusted by analysis of covariance for differences in glucose intake, the liver responses in starved-refed rats were still significant but the adipose tissue responses were not, indicating that the responses of adipose tissue (but not of liver) may have resulted from decreased glucose intake rather than from increased trilinolein intake. The results suggest that dietary trilinolein inhibits the characteristic increase in liver G6PD, ME and total lipids upon starvation-refeeding. However, after the levels of these parameters have been increased by feeding a fat-free diet they cannot be decreased by dietary trilinolein in 2 days.", "PMID": 448448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8641", "title": "Selenium, vitamin E and the response to swimming stress in the rat.", "content": "Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of exercise on rat glutathione peroxidase system enzymes and lipid peroxidation among animals supplemented and unsupplemented with selenium (Se) and vitamin E (E). Liver, muscle and blood were taken before, immediately after and 24 hours after exercising to exhaustion by swimming. No effect of exercise was found on muscle or liver enzymes, although exercise resulted in depressed glutathione reductase (GR) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities in erythrocytes immediately after exercise. Dietary Se supplementation did result in increased hepatic muscle and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity, and decreased hepatic GR, G6PD and \"malic enzyme\" activities. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and indicator of lipid peroxidation, increased in liver and muscle subsequent to exercise. This increase was reduced in liver, but not eliminated, by dietary E supplementation. The increase was not affected by dietary E in muscle, nor by dietary Se in either tissue.", "contents": "Selenium, vitamin E and the response to swimming stress in the rat. Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of exercise on rat glutathione peroxidase system enzymes and lipid peroxidation among animals supplemented and unsupplemented with selenium (Se) and vitamin E (E). Liver, muscle and blood were taken before, immediately after and 24 hours after exercising to exhaustion by swimming. No effect of exercise was found on muscle or liver enzymes, although exercise resulted in depressed glutathione reductase (GR) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities in erythrocytes immediately after exercise. Dietary Se supplementation did result in increased hepatic muscle and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity, and decreased hepatic GR, G6PD and \"malic enzyme\" activities. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and indicator of lipid peroxidation, increased in liver and muscle subsequent to exercise. This increase was reduced in liver, but not eliminated, by dietary E supplementation. The increase was not affected by dietary E in muscle, nor by dietary Se in either tissue.", "PMID": 448449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8642", "title": "Sites of organic acid production and patterns of digesta movement in the gastro-intestinal tract of the raccoon.", "content": "Twelve raccoons were used to assess the movement of fluid and particulate digesta through their gastrointestinal tract and to determine the diurnal variations in organic acid levels for the various segments of the tract. Fluid and particulate markers were administered at the time of meal feeding. Animals were killed at given intervals after the administration of markers. The gastrointestinal tract was removed and divided into seven segments for measurement of markers, pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and lactic acid content. The results indicate a rapid transit of the digesta through the entire gastrointestinal tract, with a mean retention time of less than 24 hours for all fluid and particulate markers. Particulate markers up to 2 cm in length were passed rapidly, with limited retention within the tract, much unlike animals with greater gut complexity. The apparent requirements for gut complexity and digesta retention presumably necessary for digestion by gut microflora were not evident in the raccoon. However, even in the absence of these characteristics, microbial fermentation of the ingesta occurred, as evidenced by the levels of organic acids produced. Colonic VFA concentrations achieved levels comparable to levels observed in the ruminants' foregut and the large intestine of the pony. Lactic acid was found throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract.", "contents": "Sites of organic acid production and patterns of digesta movement in the gastro-intestinal tract of the raccoon. Twelve raccoons were used to assess the movement of fluid and particulate digesta through their gastrointestinal tract and to determine the diurnal variations in organic acid levels for the various segments of the tract. Fluid and particulate markers were administered at the time of meal feeding. Animals were killed at given intervals after the administration of markers. The gastrointestinal tract was removed and divided into seven segments for measurement of markers, pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and lactic acid content. The results indicate a rapid transit of the digesta through the entire gastrointestinal tract, with a mean retention time of less than 24 hours for all fluid and particulate markers. Particulate markers up to 2 cm in length were passed rapidly, with limited retention within the tract, much unlike animals with greater gut complexity. The apparent requirements for gut complexity and digesta retention presumably necessary for digestion by gut microflora were not evident in the raccoon. However, even in the absence of these characteristics, microbial fermentation of the ingesta occurred, as evidenced by the levels of organic acids produced. Colonic VFA concentrations achieved levels comparable to levels observed in the ruminants' foregut and the large intestine of the pony. Lactic acid was found throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract.", "PMID": 448450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8643", "title": "Dietary cellulose, zinc and copper: effects on tissue levels of trace minerals in the rat.", "content": "This study was designed to examine the effect of graded levels of cellulose, zinc and copper on tissue mineral levels. Tissue mineral levels were assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in samples collected from a study which involved 12 treatments in a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial arrangement. This study involved three levels of cellulose (0, 8, and 16% of the diet), two levels of Cu (deficient and adequate; 2 and 18 mg/kg of diet, respectively), and two levels of Zn (marginal and abundant; 10 and 120 mg/kg of diet, respectively). Six weanling, male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to each treatment and after 9 weeks they were killed. Reductions of tissue Cu content were observed in the serum, liver, tibia and testis of the rats fed the Cu-deficient diets. The Fe content of the tibia and testis was reduced, but that of liver was elevated in the rats fed Cu-deficient diets. Reductions in tibial Zn levels were observed in the rats fed marginal-Zn as compared to those fed the abundant-Zn diets; and in the rats fed Cu-adequate as compared to those fed Cu-deficient diets. Increases in cellulose resulted in increased liver and testicular Cu content only in rats fed the Cu-deficient diets. Additions of cellulose appeared to have no adverse effect on the distribution of Zn, Cu and Fe in tissues which are sensitive to dietary deficiencies. With the exception of rats fed the copper-deficient, marginal zinc diets, the rats fed the other diets demonstrated a small reduction in serum zinc values as cellulose was increased.", "contents": "Dietary cellulose, zinc and copper: effects on tissue levels of trace minerals in the rat. This study was designed to examine the effect of graded levels of cellulose, zinc and copper on tissue mineral levels. Tissue mineral levels were assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in samples collected from a study which involved 12 treatments in a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial arrangement. This study involved three levels of cellulose (0, 8, and 16% of the diet), two levels of Cu (deficient and adequate; 2 and 18 mg/kg of diet, respectively), and two levels of Zn (marginal and abundant; 10 and 120 mg/kg of diet, respectively). Six weanling, male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to each treatment and after 9 weeks they were killed. Reductions of tissue Cu content were observed in the serum, liver, tibia and testis of the rats fed the Cu-deficient diets. The Fe content of the tibia and testis was reduced, but that of liver was elevated in the rats fed Cu-deficient diets. Reductions in tibial Zn levels were observed in the rats fed marginal-Zn as compared to those fed the abundant-Zn diets; and in the rats fed Cu-adequate as compared to those fed Cu-deficient diets. Increases in cellulose resulted in increased liver and testicular Cu content only in rats fed the Cu-deficient diets. Additions of cellulose appeared to have no adverse effect on the distribution of Zn, Cu and Fe in tissues which are sensitive to dietary deficiencies. With the exception of rats fed the copper-deficient, marginal zinc diets, the rats fed the other diets demonstrated a small reduction in serum zinc values as cellulose was increased.", "PMID": 448451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8644", "title": "Effects of the unsaturation of dietary fat and of arachidonate supplementation on cholesterol pool expansion in the guinea pigs.", "content": "We have studied the effects of methyl arachidonate supplementation on the lipid metabolism of guinea pigs fed cholesterol. Four groups of guinea pigs were fed a purified diet containing 9.5% hydrogenated coconut oil (HCNO), a highly saturated fat with or without the addition of 1% cholesterol, for 15 weeks. One half of the animals fed the control and the cholesterol-containing diets were supplemented with 15 mg methyl arachidonate three times per week. Supplementation with methyl arachidonate did not alter the concentration of plasma total (TC) or unesterified (FC) cholesterol, erythrocyte cholesterol and plasma phospholipid or the ratio of plasma FC/TC. Accumulation of cholesterol in the major organs of the cholesterol-fed groups was also unchanged. In both control and cholesterol-fed groups, methyl arachidonate decreased the proportion of oleic (18:1) and linoleic acids (18:2) and increased arachidonic acid (20:4) content of plasma and liver phospholipid. A comparison between the results of this study and studies using cottonseed oil showed that the type of dietary fat modifies the effects of cholesterol: plasma cholesterol levels were higher and liver cholesterol storage was lower in animals fed the saturated fat than in those fed the fat rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Furthermore, in spite of similar changes in erythrocyte cholesterol content and shape abnormalities, no overt hemolytic anemia was observed in the groups fed cholesterol and saturated fat, in contrast to those fed cholesterol + PUFA-containing fat. We conclude that in guinea pigs supplementary methyl arachidonate had no hypocholesterolemic effect at the levels we fed, that circulating cholesterol levels are not a measure of cholesterol accumulation by organs and that the decrease of serum cholesterol in response of PUFA is due in part to an increase of cholesterol storage in the liver.", "contents": "Effects of the unsaturation of dietary fat and of arachidonate supplementation on cholesterol pool expansion in the guinea pigs. We have studied the effects of methyl arachidonate supplementation on the lipid metabolism of guinea pigs fed cholesterol. Four groups of guinea pigs were fed a purified diet containing 9.5% hydrogenated coconut oil (HCNO), a highly saturated fat with or without the addition of 1% cholesterol, for 15 weeks. One half of the animals fed the control and the cholesterol-containing diets were supplemented with 15 mg methyl arachidonate three times per week. Supplementation with methyl arachidonate did not alter the concentration of plasma total (TC) or unesterified (FC) cholesterol, erythrocyte cholesterol and plasma phospholipid or the ratio of plasma FC/TC. Accumulation of cholesterol in the major organs of the cholesterol-fed groups was also unchanged. In both control and cholesterol-fed groups, methyl arachidonate decreased the proportion of oleic (18:1) and linoleic acids (18:2) and increased arachidonic acid (20:4) content of plasma and liver phospholipid. A comparison between the results of this study and studies using cottonseed oil showed that the type of dietary fat modifies the effects of cholesterol: plasma cholesterol levels were higher and liver cholesterol storage was lower in animals fed the saturated fat than in those fed the fat rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Furthermore, in spite of similar changes in erythrocyte cholesterol content and shape abnormalities, no overt hemolytic anemia was observed in the groups fed cholesterol and saturated fat, in contrast to those fed cholesterol + PUFA-containing fat. We conclude that in guinea pigs supplementary methyl arachidonate had no hypocholesterolemic effect at the levels we fed, that circulating cholesterol levels are not a measure of cholesterol accumulation by organs and that the decrease of serum cholesterol in response of PUFA is due in part to an increase of cholesterol storage in the liver.", "PMID": 448452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8645", "title": "Efficacy of the D- and L-isomers of N-acetylmethionine for chicks fed diets containing either crystalline amino acids or intact protein.", "content": "Chick growth assays were used to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of the L- and D-isomers of N-acetylmethionine when fed as a source of methionine in crystalline amino acid diets. In agreement with earlier rat studies employing intact protein diets, N-acetyl-L-methionine had a methionine-sparing value of 100% and N-acetyl-D-methionine a value of zero. The former was also observed to be fully effective as a methionine supplement when added to a methionine-deficient diet containing equal protein contributions from soybean, casein and gelatin. Isosulfurous levels of excess L-methionine or N-acetyl-L-methionine were equally growth depressing, but L-methionine elevated spleen iron deposition to a greater extent than N-acetyl-L-methionine. N-acetyl-D-methionine in excess depressed growth only slightly, due entirely to a depression in voluntary food intake, and no evidence of splenic hemosiderosis was observed from this addition.", "contents": "Efficacy of the D- and L-isomers of N-acetylmethionine for chicks fed diets containing either crystalline amino acids or intact protein. Chick growth assays were used to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of the L- and D-isomers of N-acetylmethionine when fed as a source of methionine in crystalline amino acid diets. In agreement with earlier rat studies employing intact protein diets, N-acetyl-L-methionine had a methionine-sparing value of 100% and N-acetyl-D-methionine a value of zero. The former was also observed to be fully effective as a methionine supplement when added to a methionine-deficient diet containing equal protein contributions from soybean, casein and gelatin. Isosulfurous levels of excess L-methionine or N-acetyl-L-methionine were equally growth depressing, but L-methionine elevated spleen iron deposition to a greater extent than N-acetyl-L-methionine. N-acetyl-D-methionine in excess depressed growth only slightly, due entirely to a depression in voluntary food intake, and no evidence of splenic hemosiderosis was observed from this addition.", "PMID": 448454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8646", "title": "Copper requirement of baby pigs fed purified diets.", "content": "Three experiments involving 52 baby pigs were conducted to determine the minimum copper requirement of baby pigs fed purified diets. Diets were supplemented with anhydrous cupric sulfate to yield the following copper concentrations (ppm, by analysis) when the three experiments were combined: 0.6, 0.9, 1.3, 1.9, 2.0, 2.8, 3.2, 4.0, 4.9, 5.6 and 9.3. Parameters examined include weight gain, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, plasma ceruloplasmin activity, plasma copper concentration, copper balance, brain and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity, copper concentration of liver, kidney, spleen, heart, brain, femur and hair, liver ferritin-iron and total iron concentration, strength characteristics of the femur, and gross and histological appearance at necropsy. Weight gains were subnormal at dietary copper concentrations below 1.9 ppm; plasma ceruloplasmin activities, and plasma and tissue copper concentrations were depressed at dietary copper levels below 2.8 ppm. Bone histopathology was evident at dietary copper levels below 3.2 ppm, and copper balance was low at dietary copper levels below 4.9 ppm. Some evidence of anemia was present at dietary copper levels below 5.6 ppm. Under the conditions of this study, the copper requirement of the baby pig fed a purified diet was judged to be approximately 5.6 ppm (6 ppm copper, dry basis).", "contents": "Copper requirement of baby pigs fed purified diets. Three experiments involving 52 baby pigs were conducted to determine the minimum copper requirement of baby pigs fed purified diets. Diets were supplemented with anhydrous cupric sulfate to yield the following copper concentrations (ppm, by analysis) when the three experiments were combined: 0.6, 0.9, 1.3, 1.9, 2.0, 2.8, 3.2, 4.0, 4.9, 5.6 and 9.3. Parameters examined include weight gain, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, plasma ceruloplasmin activity, plasma copper concentration, copper balance, brain and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity, copper concentration of liver, kidney, spleen, heart, brain, femur and hair, liver ferritin-iron and total iron concentration, strength characteristics of the femur, and gross and histological appearance at necropsy. Weight gains were subnormal at dietary copper concentrations below 1.9 ppm; plasma ceruloplasmin activities, and plasma and tissue copper concentrations were depressed at dietary copper levels below 2.8 ppm. Bone histopathology was evident at dietary copper levels below 3.2 ppm, and copper balance was low at dietary copper levels below 4.9 ppm. Some evidence of anemia was present at dietary copper levels below 5.6 ppm. Under the conditions of this study, the copper requirement of the baby pig fed a purified diet was judged to be approximately 5.6 ppm (6 ppm copper, dry basis).", "PMID": 448453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8647", "title": "Intestinal absorption of pyridoxal-5'-phosphate: disappearance from perfused segments of rat jejunum in vivo.", "content": "The luminal disappearance of unlabeled pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) was studied in vivo in rat jejunum utilizing a perfused segment model. The PLP was measured by a tyrosine decarboxylase assay. [14C]Dextran was used as a nonabsorbable marker to calculate net water absorption. Initial studies validated the use of [14C]dextran as a nonabsorbable marker and established proper conditions of segment perfusion and sample collection for the measurement of PLP luminal disappearance. Subsequent studies demonstrated significant (67.2%) but incomplete inhibition of PLP disappearance by 80 mM phosphate. When nonperfused PLP in 1.1 mM phosphate buffer or perfused PLP in 80 mM phosphate buffer were incubated in vitro for 15 minutes at 37 degrees in a water bath, only negligible changes in PLP concentration were noted. However, when perfused PLP in 1.1 mM phosphate buffer was similarly incubated in vitro, there was a rapid decay in PLP concentration. L-Phenylalanine (5 mM) significantly inhibited this in vitro decay. Conclusions derived from these studies are: 1) The model used is a valid means of studying in vivo luminal disappearance of PLP in the rat jejunum; 2) a major portion of the disappearance seems to involve hydrolysis by alkaline phosphatase; 3) a significant portion of this hydrolysis occurs intraluminally; and 4) a second mechanism of PLP disappearance, which is nonphosphatase-mediated, also appears operative and may represent absorption of the intact, phosphorylated vitamin.", "contents": "Intestinal absorption of pyridoxal-5'-phosphate: disappearance from perfused segments of rat jejunum in vivo. The luminal disappearance of unlabeled pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) was studied in vivo in rat jejunum utilizing a perfused segment model. The PLP was measured by a tyrosine decarboxylase assay. [14C]Dextran was used as a nonabsorbable marker to calculate net water absorption. Initial studies validated the use of [14C]dextran as a nonabsorbable marker and established proper conditions of segment perfusion and sample collection for the measurement of PLP luminal disappearance. Subsequent studies demonstrated significant (67.2%) but incomplete inhibition of PLP disappearance by 80 mM phosphate. When nonperfused PLP in 1.1 mM phosphate buffer or perfused PLP in 80 mM phosphate buffer were incubated in vitro for 15 minutes at 37 degrees in a water bath, only negligible changes in PLP concentration were noted. However, when perfused PLP in 1.1 mM phosphate buffer was similarly incubated in vitro, there was a rapid decay in PLP concentration. L-Phenylalanine (5 mM) significantly inhibited this in vitro decay. Conclusions derived from these studies are: 1) The model used is a valid means of studying in vivo luminal disappearance of PLP in the rat jejunum; 2) a major portion of the disappearance seems to involve hydrolysis by alkaline phosphatase; 3) a significant portion of this hydrolysis occurs intraluminally; and 4) a second mechanism of PLP disappearance, which is nonphosphatase-mediated, also appears operative and may represent absorption of the intact, phosphorylated vitamin.", "PMID": 448455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8648", "title": "The effects of maternal ethanol consumption in the rat on the development of their offspring.", "content": "The effects of ethanol on the physical development and maturation of the CNS in the offspring of lactating rats were investigated. Dams were fed: 1) regular stock diet (control), 2) liquid diet containing 35% of the calories as ethanol (ETOH) or 3) liquid diet with maltose-dextrin substituted for the calories supplied by ethanol (isoenergetic = IE). Diets were administered from the 14th day of gestation until 3 weeks post-partum (pre- and post-natal exposure) or from birth until 3 weeks post-partum (post-natal exposure). Body weight, crown-rump length and tail length, as well as brain weight were followed longitudinally in the pups. The growth in the pups of dams fed ETOH diet and those fed IE diet were significantly less than that observed in the pups of control dams. Furthermore, pups of dams fed the ETOH diet showed retardation in growth indices and brain weight at various ages when compared to pups of equivalent age from dams fed the IE diet. Therefore, administration of ethanol to pregnant or lactating dams impaired the physical growth, including central nervous systems (CNS), of their offspring more than those changes caused by nitritional deprivation.", "contents": "The effects of maternal ethanol consumption in the rat on the development of their offspring. The effects of ethanol on the physical development and maturation of the CNS in the offspring of lactating rats were investigated. Dams were fed: 1) regular stock diet (control), 2) liquid diet containing 35% of the calories as ethanol (ETOH) or 3) liquid diet with maltose-dextrin substituted for the calories supplied by ethanol (isoenergetic = IE). Diets were administered from the 14th day of gestation until 3 weeks post-partum (pre- and post-natal exposure) or from birth until 3 weeks post-partum (post-natal exposure). Body weight, crown-rump length and tail length, as well as brain weight were followed longitudinally in the pups. The growth in the pups of dams fed ETOH diet and those fed IE diet were significantly less than that observed in the pups of control dams. Furthermore, pups of dams fed the ETOH diet showed retardation in growth indices and brain weight at various ages when compared to pups of equivalent age from dams fed the IE diet. Therefore, administration of ethanol to pregnant or lactating dams impaired the physical growth, including central nervous systems (CNS), of their offspring more than those changes caused by nitritional deprivation.", "PMID": 448456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8649", "title": "Studies on the effects of rapeseed meal on thyroid status of cattle, glucosinolate and iodine content of milk and other parameters.", "content": "The effects of feeding rapeseed meals (RSM) containing low (Tower) or high (Target/Turret) levels of glucosinolates on thyroid status, iodine and glucosinolate content of milk and other parameters were studied in dairy cows and young calves. RSM (Tower and Turret) fed to dairy cows at 25% of the grain mixture reduced iodine content of milk. Diets containing Tower and Turret RSM tended to reduce plasma thyroxine (T4) in cows and increase the size of thyroids in rats. Calf diets containing Target and Tower RSM resulted in increased liver and thyroid weights, but only those containing Target tended to reduce plasma T4 levels. Feed intake, weight gain, hemoglobin, blood cell volume and erythrocyte count in calves were not affected by diets containing Tower RSM, but Target RSM reduced all these parameters. In addition, diets containing Target caused more pronounced histological changes of the calves' thyroid than those containing Tower RSM. No measurable amounts of intact glucosinolates were detected in milk of cows fed RSM. Similarly the glucosinolate aglucones, isothiocyanates or vinyl oxazolidinethione, were not transferred to milk although small amounts of unsaturated nitrile (1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3-butene) and inorganic thiocyanate were detected in milk. Rats receiving milk from cows fed Turret RSM developed larger thyroid than those receiving milk from control-fed cows. Supplemental iodine (61.0 microgram/d) in the rat prevented the thyroid enlargement.", "contents": "Studies on the effects of rapeseed meal on thyroid status of cattle, glucosinolate and iodine content of milk and other parameters. The effects of feeding rapeseed meals (RSM) containing low (Tower) or high (Target/Turret) levels of glucosinolates on thyroid status, iodine and glucosinolate content of milk and other parameters were studied in dairy cows and young calves. RSM (Tower and Turret) fed to dairy cows at 25% of the grain mixture reduced iodine content of milk. Diets containing Tower and Turret RSM tended to reduce plasma thyroxine (T4) in cows and increase the size of thyroids in rats. Calf diets containing Target and Tower RSM resulted in increased liver and thyroid weights, but only those containing Target tended to reduce plasma T4 levels. Feed intake, weight gain, hemoglobin, blood cell volume and erythrocyte count in calves were not affected by diets containing Tower RSM, but Target RSM reduced all these parameters. In addition, diets containing Target caused more pronounced histological changes of the calves' thyroid than those containing Tower RSM. No measurable amounts of intact glucosinolates were detected in milk of cows fed RSM. Similarly the glucosinolate aglucones, isothiocyanates or vinyl oxazolidinethione, were not transferred to milk although small amounts of unsaturated nitrile (1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3-butene) and inorganic thiocyanate were detected in milk. Rats receiving milk from cows fed Turret RSM developed larger thyroid than those receiving milk from control-fed cows. Supplemental iodine (61.0 microgram/d) in the rat prevented the thyroid enlargement.", "PMID": 448457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8650", "title": "Pantothenic acid requirements of channel catfish fingerlings.", "content": "In 8- and 12-week feeding trials, channel catfish fingerlings were fed purified diets containing four levels (0, 10, 30 and 60 mg/kg) and six levels (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg/kg) of supplemental calcium pantothenate, respectively. The dietary pantothenate level required for maximal growth, feed conversion and prevention of gross deficiency signs was approximately 10 mg/kg of diet. Fish fed the unsupplemented diet showed severe anorexia, loss of weight, clubbed gills, anemia, high mortality rates and eroded skins, lower jaws, fins and barbels. Fused gill filaments were not obtained as reported in pantothenate deficient salmonids.", "contents": "Pantothenic acid requirements of channel catfish fingerlings. In 8- and 12-week feeding trials, channel catfish fingerlings were fed purified diets containing four levels (0, 10, 30 and 60 mg/kg) and six levels (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg/kg) of supplemental calcium pantothenate, respectively. The dietary pantothenate level required for maximal growth, feed conversion and prevention of gross deficiency signs was approximately 10 mg/kg of diet. Fish fed the unsupplemented diet showed severe anorexia, loss of weight, clubbed gills, anemia, high mortality rates and eroded skins, lower jaws, fins and barbels. Fused gill filaments were not obtained as reported in pantothenate deficient salmonids.", "PMID": 448458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8651", "title": "Maintenance energy requirements, energy retention and heat production of young obese (ob/ob) and lean mice fed a high-fat or a high-carbohydrate diet.", "content": "Female obese (ob/ob) and lean mice were weaned at 21 days of age, placed in wire-mesh cages maintained at 25 to 30 degrees, and fed a high-fat or a high-carbohydrate diet for 21 days. The body energy balance procedure was utilized to determine the maintenance energy requirements, and the efficiency of dietary energy utilization, above maintenance, in these mice. Heat production of each mouse was measured weekly in a gradient-layer calorimeter. Regressions of changes in body energy per kg3/4 on metabolizable energy intake per kg3/4 indicated that the maintenance energy requirement averaged 72 kcal/kg3/4/day for obese mice and 124 kcal/kg3/4/day for lean mice. Diet composition did not influence the maintenance energy requirements, but utilization of energy, above maintenance, in obese mice fed the high-fat diet was 41% more efficient than observed in obese mice fed the high-carbohydrate diet and 38 to 71% more efficient than observed in lean mice. Heat production, per unit body weight was lower in obese mice than in lean mice. The lowest heat production was observed in obese mice fed the high-fat diet. The 40% lower maintenance energy requirement of the obese mice is a major factor contributing to the high efficiency of energy retention in these mice. Consumption of a high-fat diet further improved the ability of the obese mice to retain dietary energy.", "contents": "Maintenance energy requirements, energy retention and heat production of young obese (ob/ob) and lean mice fed a high-fat or a high-carbohydrate diet. Female obese (ob/ob) and lean mice were weaned at 21 days of age, placed in wire-mesh cages maintained at 25 to 30 degrees, and fed a high-fat or a high-carbohydrate diet for 21 days. The body energy balance procedure was utilized to determine the maintenance energy requirements, and the efficiency of dietary energy utilization, above maintenance, in these mice. Heat production of each mouse was measured weekly in a gradient-layer calorimeter. Regressions of changes in body energy per kg3/4 on metabolizable energy intake per kg3/4 indicated that the maintenance energy requirement averaged 72 kcal/kg3/4/day for obese mice and 124 kcal/kg3/4/day for lean mice. Diet composition did not influence the maintenance energy requirements, but utilization of energy, above maintenance, in obese mice fed the high-fat diet was 41% more efficient than observed in obese mice fed the high-carbohydrate diet and 38 to 71% more efficient than observed in lean mice. Heat production, per unit body weight was lower in obese mice than in lean mice. The lowest heat production was observed in obese mice fed the high-fat diet. The 40% lower maintenance energy requirement of the obese mice is a major factor contributing to the high efficiency of energy retention in these mice. Consumption of a high-fat diet further improved the ability of the obese mice to retain dietary energy.", "PMID": 448459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8652", "title": "Assessment of indispensable and dispensable amino acids for the immature dog.", "content": "A completely purified L-amino acid diet was used to determine the indispensability of leucine, lysine, valine, phenylalanine and arginine in the immature dog. An additional study showed that asparagine, alanine, aspartic acid, cystine, glutamic acid, proline, tyrosine, serine and glycine can be classified as dispensable amino acids for the immature dog. Deletion of these indispensable amino acids resulted in a marked negative nitrogen balance. Increased plasma and urinary urea were also observed when a dietary indispensable amino acid imbalance occurred. Estimates are made for the dietary requirements for leucine, lysine, valine and phenylalanine in the immature dog.", "contents": "Assessment of indispensable and dispensable amino acids for the immature dog. A completely purified L-amino acid diet was used to determine the indispensability of leucine, lysine, valine, phenylalanine and arginine in the immature dog. An additional study showed that asparagine, alanine, aspartic acid, cystine, glutamic acid, proline, tyrosine, serine and glycine can be classified as dispensable amino acids for the immature dog. Deletion of these indispensable amino acids resulted in a marked negative nitrogen balance. Increased plasma and urinary urea were also observed when a dietary indispensable amino acid imbalance occurred. Estimates are made for the dietary requirements for leucine, lysine, valine and phenylalanine in the immature dog.", "PMID": 448461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8653", "title": "Absorption of monoferric phytate by dogs.", "content": "Recent studies have shown that the iron in wheat is predominantly in the form of monoferric phytate (MFP). Unlike phytate complexed with two or more iron atoms, MFP is soluble at pH 7.0 and above and may therefore be a relatively available form of dietary iron. To examine this point, we tested iron absorption in adult dogs using a double radioisotope method and total body counting. When given without food, MFP was about one-half as available as ferrous sulphate at an iron-equivalent dose of 1.5 mg and only about one-seventh as available at a dose of 15 mg iron. When administered with food, MFP underwent complete isotopic exchange with the nonheme pool of dietary iron. When added to meals of either high or low iron availability in amounts that might be used for iron fortification, the absorption was the same for MFP iron as for the major pool of dietary inorganic iron.", "contents": "Absorption of monoferric phytate by dogs. Recent studies have shown that the iron in wheat is predominantly in the form of monoferric phytate (MFP). Unlike phytate complexed with two or more iron atoms, MFP is soluble at pH 7.0 and above and may therefore be a relatively available form of dietary iron. To examine this point, we tested iron absorption in adult dogs using a double radioisotope method and total body counting. When given without food, MFP was about one-half as available as ferrous sulphate at an iron-equivalent dose of 1.5 mg and only about one-seventh as available at a dose of 15 mg iron. When administered with food, MFP underwent complete isotopic exchange with the nonheme pool of dietary iron. When added to meals of either high or low iron availability in amounts that might be used for iron fortification, the absorption was the same for MFP iron as for the major pool of dietary inorganic iron.", "PMID": 448460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8654", "title": "Effect of glucocorticoids and calcium intake on bone density and bone, liver and plasma minerals in guinea pigs.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to see what effect glucocorticoids would have on bone density and mineral distribution in guinea pigs. Adult female guinea pigs were given prednisolone, a synthetic analogue of cortisol, for up to 24 weeks. Bone density and bone, liver and plasma levels of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, chromium, magnesium and calcium were studied in these animals. In one study, the effect of menopause was simulated by using ovariectomy. In another study, dietary calcium was varied to investigate its effect with glucocorticoids. Animals treated with 1 mg prednisolone/kg body weight showed increased femur density compared with controls, but no changes in tissue mineral concentrations. Animals fed 100 mg prednisolone/kg body weight experienced decreased femur density. Differences in effects were not observed between ovariectomized and intact animals. Bone loss was greatest in animals fed the cereal-based closed-formula diet and least in animals fed the low-calcium diet. Changes in mineral content of femurs observed in animals which lost bone mass were increased iron concentration and decreased magnesium concentration. Total liver stores of zinc and magnesium increased. Liver copper increased in concentration per gram as well as in total content. Liver concentration of manganese decreased. Plasma changes in animals fed the high level of drug were decreased iron and calcium, and increased copper. Hemoglobin and hematocrit increased with increasing drug levels. It is suggested that glucocorticoids have marked effects on mineral metabolism which may be related to the bone loss and that these effects may be modified by dietary changes.", "contents": "Effect of glucocorticoids and calcium intake on bone density and bone, liver and plasma minerals in guinea pigs. The purpose of this study was to see what effect glucocorticoids would have on bone density and mineral distribution in guinea pigs. Adult female guinea pigs were given prednisolone, a synthetic analogue of cortisol, for up to 24 weeks. Bone density and bone, liver and plasma levels of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, chromium, magnesium and calcium were studied in these animals. In one study, the effect of menopause was simulated by using ovariectomy. In another study, dietary calcium was varied to investigate its effect with glucocorticoids. Animals treated with 1 mg prednisolone/kg body weight showed increased femur density compared with controls, but no changes in tissue mineral concentrations. Animals fed 100 mg prednisolone/kg body weight experienced decreased femur density. Differences in effects were not observed between ovariectomized and intact animals. Bone loss was greatest in animals fed the cereal-based closed-formula diet and least in animals fed the low-calcium diet. Changes in mineral content of femurs observed in animals which lost bone mass were increased iron concentration and decreased magnesium concentration. Total liver stores of zinc and magnesium increased. Liver copper increased in concentration per gram as well as in total content. Liver concentration of manganese decreased. Plasma changes in animals fed the high level of drug were decreased iron and calcium, and increased copper. Hemoglobin and hematocrit increased with increasing drug levels. It is suggested that glucocorticoids have marked effects on mineral metabolism which may be related to the bone loss and that these effects may be modified by dietary changes.", "PMID": 448462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8655", "title": "Effect of pre- and postnatal essential fatty acid deficiency on brain development and myelination.", "content": "Pregnant mice were fed an essential fatty acid (EFA) deficient diet from day 1 of gestation. Several biochemical parameters of postnatal brain growth and myelination were measured on their progeny and compared with controls fed a normal diet containing 4% corn oil or a commercial breeder diet. Measurements of brain DNA, RNA and protein content of the EFA deficient mice suggested a retardation of brain growth and development of about 1 week compared to controls, with the most striking differences noted at ages below 15 days. DNA content of both control and experimental mice became comparable at 20 to 22 days but brain protein and RNA content remained lower in deficient mice at all ages studied. The levels of several myelin specific constituents were also measured in experimental and control brains. The brain galactolipid content was severely depressed at levels 21% of controls at 40 days of age. Proteolipid protein was also significantly reduced (23% of controls at 40 days of age). In contrast, the activity of the myelin marker enzyme, 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide-3'-phosphodiesterase, appeared to be totally unaffected by EFA deficiency. The results indicate that pre-and postnatal EFA deficiency results in a retardation of brain development and a profound reduction of some but not all myelin specific components.", "contents": "Effect of pre- and postnatal essential fatty acid deficiency on brain development and myelination. Pregnant mice were fed an essential fatty acid (EFA) deficient diet from day 1 of gestation. Several biochemical parameters of postnatal brain growth and myelination were measured on their progeny and compared with controls fed a normal diet containing 4% corn oil or a commercial breeder diet. Measurements of brain DNA, RNA and protein content of the EFA deficient mice suggested a retardation of brain growth and development of about 1 week compared to controls, with the most striking differences noted at ages below 15 days. DNA content of both control and experimental mice became comparable at 20 to 22 days but brain protein and RNA content remained lower in deficient mice at all ages studied. The levels of several myelin specific constituents were also measured in experimental and control brains. The brain galactolipid content was severely depressed at levels 21% of controls at 40 days of age. Proteolipid protein was also significantly reduced (23% of controls at 40 days of age). In contrast, the activity of the myelin marker enzyme, 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide-3'-phosphodiesterase, appeared to be totally unaffected by EFA deficiency. The results indicate that pre-and postnatal EFA deficiency results in a retardation of brain development and a profound reduction of some but not all myelin specific components.", "PMID": 448463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8656", "title": "The kinetics of 75Se-selenium in relation to dose and mode of administration to mice.", "content": "To investigate the effect of selenium in relation to different environmental conditions a study on the kinetics of the element in mice has been carried out on 54 female mice. 75Se (selenite) was administered as a single dose or continuously through drinking water. Different dosage levels were used ranging from \"tracer dose\" to subtoxic doses. Wholebody counts revealed a biphasic elimination. The first rapid phase was strongly dose-dependent, while the slower second phase of elimination appeared independent of dose as well as mode of administration with a biological half-life of 14.4 +/- 3.2 days. Liver, blood, kidney and lungs were found to contain most of the selenium, here also a two-phased elimination was observed. The biological half-lives for elimination calculated during the second phase gave a mean of 10.7 days with a range of 8.7 to 12.5 days. With continuous administration through drinking water a steady state was obtained after 300 to 400 hours of administration according to concentration. A linearity between amount retained at steady state and log concentration in drinking water is indicated. The results on biological half-lives are discussed in relation to previous publications.", "contents": "The kinetics of 75Se-selenium in relation to dose and mode of administration to mice. To investigate the effect of selenium in relation to different environmental conditions a study on the kinetics of the element in mice has been carried out on 54 female mice. 75Se (selenite) was administered as a single dose or continuously through drinking water. Different dosage levels were used ranging from \"tracer dose\" to subtoxic doses. Wholebody counts revealed a biphasic elimination. The first rapid phase was strongly dose-dependent, while the slower second phase of elimination appeared independent of dose as well as mode of administration with a biological half-life of 14.4 +/- 3.2 days. Liver, blood, kidney and lungs were found to contain most of the selenium, here also a two-phased elimination was observed. The biological half-lives for elimination calculated during the second phase gave a mean of 10.7 days with a range of 8.7 to 12.5 days. With continuous administration through drinking water a steady state was obtained after 300 to 400 hours of administration according to concentration. A linearity between amount retained at steady state and log concentration in drinking water is indicated. The results on biological half-lives are discussed in relation to previous publications.", "PMID": 448464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8657", "title": "Effects of life span feeding of ruminant-derived human diets to rats.", "content": "A freeze-dried human diet, based on linoleic acid-enriched food stuffs derived from ruminants, was evaluated and compared with a similarly-prepared diet based on conventional ruminant-derived foodstuffs, using Porton rats in a whole-of-life study. A cereal-based stock diet was used for comparison. Serum biochemical and histopathological examinations were carried out at 0.25, 1.1 and 2.1 years of age and other rats were left until they died of natural causes. Although some diet-specific biochemical differences were noted, triglyceride and cholesterol levels showed changes which were more age-specific than diet-specific. Longevity did not seem to be influenced by quantity or quality of dietary fat. The most common cause of death was a bronchopneumonia at about 2 years of age. Dietary fat also did not affect incidence of tumors. The most common tumor was a pituitary adenoma which occurred most often in females. Only minor causes of death were specific to diet with waxy intra-cardial plaques occurring in less than 5% of rats fed both of the high-fat diets and severe systemic hypertension occurring in rats fed the low-fat stock diet at the same frequency. No deleterious changes were noted that were unique to the linoleic acid-enriched diet.", "contents": "Effects of life span feeding of ruminant-derived human diets to rats. A freeze-dried human diet, based on linoleic acid-enriched food stuffs derived from ruminants, was evaluated and compared with a similarly-prepared diet based on conventional ruminant-derived foodstuffs, using Porton rats in a whole-of-life study. A cereal-based stock diet was used for comparison. Serum biochemical and histopathological examinations were carried out at 0.25, 1.1 and 2.1 years of age and other rats were left until they died of natural causes. Although some diet-specific biochemical differences were noted, triglyceride and cholesterol levels showed changes which were more age-specific than diet-specific. Longevity did not seem to be influenced by quantity or quality of dietary fat. The most common cause of death was a bronchopneumonia at about 2 years of age. Dietary fat also did not affect incidence of tumors. The most common tumor was a pituitary adenoma which occurred most often in females. Only minor causes of death were specific to diet with waxy intra-cardial plaques occurring in less than 5% of rats fed both of the high-fat diets and severe systemic hypertension occurring in rats fed the low-fat stock diet at the same frequency. No deleterious changes were noted that were unique to the linoleic acid-enriched diet.", "PMID": 448465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8658", "title": "The influence of early nutrition on the serum cholesterol of the adult rat.", "content": "In two experiments, young rats were preconditioned with dietary cholesterol by: 1) nursing from dams with a high cholesterol milk or, 2) receiving 10 mg cholesterol dissolved in 0.5 ml of corn oil daily from 6 to 30 days of age. When rats preconditioned with dietary cholesterol in early life were fed stock diet supplemented with 10% lard and 0.5% cholesterol (\"cholesterol challenge diet\") there was no protection against dietary induced hypercholesterolemia in adult life. In a third experiment, two groups of newborn rats were intubated with: 1) a cholesterol free formula, 2) the cholesterol free formula plus 50 mg% cholesterol. A third group of pups suckled normally. After weaning all pups were fed a stock diet supplemented with 10% lard and 0.5% cholesterol for 1 month. There was no difference in the serum cholesterol in either group of artificially reared rats after the \"cholesterol challenge\" (106 +/- 6 mg/100 ml). Suckled rats, however, had a lower serum cholesterol after the \"cholesterol challenge\" (75 +/- 2 mg/100 ml). All experiments conducted refute the hypothesis that early exposure to dietary cholesterol protects against dietary induced hypercholesterolemia in adult life. It appears, however, that cholesterol metabolic systems are affected in early life because of the decreased ability of artificially reared rats to handle a \"cholesterol challenge.\" Possible factors include a component of the dam's milk, growth and development, and the psychological and emotional stress of the artificial rearing process.", "contents": "The influence of early nutrition on the serum cholesterol of the adult rat. In two experiments, young rats were preconditioned with dietary cholesterol by: 1) nursing from dams with a high cholesterol milk or, 2) receiving 10 mg cholesterol dissolved in 0.5 ml of corn oil daily from 6 to 30 days of age. When rats preconditioned with dietary cholesterol in early life were fed stock diet supplemented with 10% lard and 0.5% cholesterol (\"cholesterol challenge diet\") there was no protection against dietary induced hypercholesterolemia in adult life. In a third experiment, two groups of newborn rats were intubated with: 1) a cholesterol free formula, 2) the cholesterol free formula plus 50 mg% cholesterol. A third group of pups suckled normally. After weaning all pups were fed a stock diet supplemented with 10% lard and 0.5% cholesterol for 1 month. There was no difference in the serum cholesterol in either group of artificially reared rats after the \"cholesterol challenge\" (106 +/- 6 mg/100 ml). Suckled rats, however, had a lower serum cholesterol after the \"cholesterol challenge\" (75 +/- 2 mg/100 ml). All experiments conducted refute the hypothesis that early exposure to dietary cholesterol protects against dietary induced hypercholesterolemia in adult life. It appears, however, that cholesterol metabolic systems are affected in early life because of the decreased ability of artificially reared rats to handle a \"cholesterol challenge.\" Possible factors include a component of the dam's milk, growth and development, and the psychological and emotional stress of the artificial rearing process.", "PMID": 448466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8659", "title": "Zinc absorption in the rat determined by radioisotope dilution.", "content": "Zinc absorption in rats was examined by use of an isotope dilution technique. Young rats and mature rats fed varying levels of dietary zinc were injected intramuscularly with 65Zn. Nine days later, a zinc balance study was begun and continued for 5 days. The rats were then decapitated and the intestines and kidneys were removed and analyzed for zinc and 65Zn content. The feces were analyzed for zinc and 65Zn content and the specific activities of the intestines and kidneys were used to compute the contribution of endogenous zinc to total daily zinc excretion and thus calculate the true daily absorption of zinc. The zinc concentration of the intestines and kidneys did not differ significantly among groups but the specific radioactivity in these organs decreased as dietary zinc intake increased. Endogenous zinc excretion was greatest in mature rats and young rats fed the highest level of dietary zinc. Mature rats actually absorbed as much or more zinc than young rats fed the same dietary level of zinc. The results demonstrate that zinc homeostasis in rats is maintained by zinc secretion from the intestine rather than by regulation of zinc absorption.", "contents": "Zinc absorption in the rat determined by radioisotope dilution. Zinc absorption in rats was examined by use of an isotope dilution technique. Young rats and mature rats fed varying levels of dietary zinc were injected intramuscularly with 65Zn. Nine days later, a zinc balance study was begun and continued for 5 days. The rats were then decapitated and the intestines and kidneys were removed and analyzed for zinc and 65Zn content. The feces were analyzed for zinc and 65Zn content and the specific activities of the intestines and kidneys were used to compute the contribution of endogenous zinc to total daily zinc excretion and thus calculate the true daily absorption of zinc. The zinc concentration of the intestines and kidneys did not differ significantly among groups but the specific radioactivity in these organs decreased as dietary zinc intake increased. Endogenous zinc excretion was greatest in mature rats and young rats fed the highest level of dietary zinc. Mature rats actually absorbed as much or more zinc than young rats fed the same dietary level of zinc. The results demonstrate that zinc homeostasis in rats is maintained by zinc secretion from the intestine rather than by regulation of zinc absorption.", "PMID": 448467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8660", "title": "Effects of pectin and cellulose on growth, feed efficiency, and protein utilization, and their contribution to energy requirement and cecal VFA in rats.", "content": "Graded levels of cellulose (0 to 20%) or of pectin (0 to 10%) were incorporated in purified diets with either 22 or 8.5% casein as the protein source. Weanling male rats were fed these diets for 4 weeks. Body weight gain, food consumption, feed efficiency, protein biological value, apparent digestion of food, fiber and protein, cecal weight and cecal volatile fatty acids (VFA) were recorded. Cellulose was largely and inert diet diluent causing increased weight gains when protein was limiting but not when protein was sufficient. The 25% disappearance in the gut was due, at least in part, to compaction in the ceca and in increased cecal VFA. Pectin caused progressively greater depressions in body weight gain, food intake and efficiency and protein digestion at both levels of dietary protein. At least part of the 75% disappearance of pectin during passage through the gut could be attributed to increased cecal VFA. However, a rat growth bioassay for energy showed that pectin as well as cellulose, agar and gum arabic contributed no measurable energy to young rats.", "contents": "Effects of pectin and cellulose on growth, feed efficiency, and protein utilization, and their contribution to energy requirement and cecal VFA in rats. Graded levels of cellulose (0 to 20%) or of pectin (0 to 10%) were incorporated in purified diets with either 22 or 8.5% casein as the protein source. Weanling male rats were fed these diets for 4 weeks. Body weight gain, food consumption, feed efficiency, protein biological value, apparent digestion of food, fiber and protein, cecal weight and cecal volatile fatty acids (VFA) were recorded. Cellulose was largely and inert diet diluent causing increased weight gains when protein was limiting but not when protein was sufficient. The 25% disappearance in the gut was due, at least in part, to compaction in the ceca and in increased cecal VFA. Pectin caused progressively greater depressions in body weight gain, food intake and efficiency and protein digestion at both levels of dietary protein. At least part of the 75% disappearance of pectin during passage through the gut could be attributed to increased cecal VFA. However, a rat growth bioassay for energy showed that pectin as well as cellulose, agar and gum arabic contributed no measurable energy to young rats.", "PMID": 448468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8661", "title": "Fascioliasis: nitrogen balance studies and the disposition of excessive proline in rats.", "content": "Nitrogen balance studies were conducted and the results compared between rats infected with Fasciola hepatica and uninfected rats as follows: Rats with 90 to 100 day infections were randomly selected and then matched by weight to uninfected controls. All rats were then fed a 6% protein diet for 3 days. Nitrogen balance data indicated that infected rats excreted significantly higher urinary nitrogen than the healthy ones. As large quantities of proline were known to be released into the host in fascioliasis it was suggested that the excessive proline might cause depressed nitrogen balance. In view of this possibility and because any pathological effects of the excessive proline would likely be most apparent in the organs involved in its handling, a proline disposition study was carried out. For this part of the study, the levels of the proline in various regions of the gut, the urine, the feces and the portal blood of both infected and control rats were measured and compared. Proline levels were found to be elevated in portal blood, duodenal contents, colonic contents, urine and feces.", "contents": "Fascioliasis: nitrogen balance studies and the disposition of excessive proline in rats. Nitrogen balance studies were conducted and the results compared between rats infected with Fasciola hepatica and uninfected rats as follows: Rats with 90 to 100 day infections were randomly selected and then matched by weight to uninfected controls. All rats were then fed a 6% protein diet for 3 days. Nitrogen balance data indicated that infected rats excreted significantly higher urinary nitrogen than the healthy ones. As large quantities of proline were known to be released into the host in fascioliasis it was suggested that the excessive proline might cause depressed nitrogen balance. In view of this possibility and because any pathological effects of the excessive proline would likely be most apparent in the organs involved in its handling, a proline disposition study was carried out. For this part of the study, the levels of the proline in various regions of the gut, the urine, the feces and the portal blood of both infected and control rats were measured and compared. Proline levels were found to be elevated in portal blood, duodenal contents, colonic contents, urine and feces.", "PMID": 448471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8662", "title": "Effect of gamma irradiation on nutritional value of dry field beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) for chicks.", "content": "The effect of gamma irradiation (60Co) of different varieties and breeding lines of dry field beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) on chick growth was determined using a chick growth assay in which the diet contained approximately 50% beans. Total protein (N X 6.25) in beans was not changed appreciably by irradiation (21 Mrad) but protein solubility in water was decreased. Irradiation increased in vitro enzymatic digestibility of bean protein by pepsin and by a mixture of trypsin, chymotrypsin and peptidase. In the bioassay the diet was formulated to derive half of the total protein (22.6%) from beans. Autoclaved Pinto and Pink beans gave significantly better growth than Red Mexican and White Pea beans. The differences between Red Mexican and White Pea beans were not significant except for Red Mexican breeding line number RS-59. The nutritional value of all varieties of beans, based on chick growth, was significantly improved by gamma irradiation. The irradiation treatment of beans tended to increase nitrogen retention by chicks and decrease uric acid nitrogen excretion in relation to nitrogen intake.", "contents": "Effect of gamma irradiation on nutritional value of dry field beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) for chicks. The effect of gamma irradiation (60Co) of different varieties and breeding lines of dry field beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) on chick growth was determined using a chick growth assay in which the diet contained approximately 50% beans. Total protein (N X 6.25) in beans was not changed appreciably by irradiation (21 Mrad) but protein solubility in water was decreased. Irradiation increased in vitro enzymatic digestibility of bean protein by pepsin and by a mixture of trypsin, chymotrypsin and peptidase. In the bioassay the diet was formulated to derive half of the total protein (22.6%) from beans. Autoclaved Pinto and Pink beans gave significantly better growth than Red Mexican and White Pea beans. The differences between Red Mexican and White Pea beans were not significant except for Red Mexican breeding line number RS-59. The nutritional value of all varieties of beans, based on chick growth, was significantly improved by gamma irradiation. The irradiation treatment of beans tended to increase nitrogen retention by chicks and decrease uric acid nitrogen excretion in relation to nitrogen intake.", "PMID": 448472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8663", "title": "Lysine deficiency and voluntary exercise in the albino rat.", "content": "The relationship between low dietary protein and voluntary wheel running was investigated by feeding weanling male white rats a natural diet deficient in lysine, by bioassay criterion. Lysine deficient rats ran more than those pair-fed or ad libitum fed the same diet with lysine added. Body composition of active and inactive rats on the three dietary regimens was compared. Of the carcass components, total and percent protein reduction correlated most strongly with running. Control animals matched in growth to the lysine deficient rats showed hyperactivity earlier, but to the same extent as the lysine deficient rats.", "contents": "Lysine deficiency and voluntary exercise in the albino rat. The relationship between low dietary protein and voluntary wheel running was investigated by feeding weanling male white rats a natural diet deficient in lysine, by bioassay criterion. Lysine deficient rats ran more than those pair-fed or ad libitum fed the same diet with lysine added. Body composition of active and inactive rats on the three dietary regimens was compared. Of the carcass components, total and percent protein reduction correlated most strongly with running. Control animals matched in growth to the lysine deficient rats showed hyperactivity earlier, but to the same extent as the lysine deficient rats.", "PMID": 448473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8664", "title": "Running fits and gamma-aminobutyric acid of the superior colliculus of the mouse.", "content": "The present experiment was performed to examine the relationship between the content of gamma-aminobutyric acid of the superior colliculus and running fits induced by injection of semicarbazide (SC), an antivitamin B6, into the superior colliculus of the mouse. (1) The distribution of 4-aminobutyrate: 2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase [EC 2.6.1.19] of the superior colliculus was studied histochemically. A high activity was observed in the superficial and medial gray layers of the superior colliculus. Pretreatment with aminooxyacetic acid at a dose which inhibits running fits induced by intracollicular injection of SC depressed the activity. (2) The contents of gamma-aminobutyric acid in superior colliculi of mice which received an intracollicular injection of SC were 60 per cent of the control, when measured immediately after the first running fit. Administration of pyridoxine together with SC inhibited the fall. (3) Intracollicular injection of thiosemicarbazide and 4-deoxypyridoxine, other antivitamins B6, also induced running fits. These results suggest that the running fits by SC injected intracollicularly are induced by the decrease of gamma-aminobutyrate due to insufficient vitamin B6 in the superior colliculus.", "contents": "Running fits and gamma-aminobutyric acid of the superior colliculus of the mouse. The present experiment was performed to examine the relationship between the content of gamma-aminobutyric acid of the superior colliculus and running fits induced by injection of semicarbazide (SC), an antivitamin B6, into the superior colliculus of the mouse. (1) The distribution of 4-aminobutyrate: 2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase [EC 2.6.1.19] of the superior colliculus was studied histochemically. A high activity was observed in the superficial and medial gray layers of the superior colliculus. Pretreatment with aminooxyacetic acid at a dose which inhibits running fits induced by intracollicular injection of SC depressed the activity. (2) The contents of gamma-aminobutyric acid in superior colliculi of mice which received an intracollicular injection of SC were 60 per cent of the control, when measured immediately after the first running fit. Administration of pyridoxine together with SC inhibited the fall. (3) Intracollicular injection of thiosemicarbazide and 4-deoxypyridoxine, other antivitamins B6, also induced running fits. These results suggest that the running fits by SC injected intracollicularly are induced by the decrease of gamma-aminobutyrate due to insufficient vitamin B6 in the superior colliculus.", "PMID": 448474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8665", "title": "Effect of voluntary exercise on physiological function and feeding behavior of mice on a 20% casein diet or a 10% casein diet.", "content": "The effects of voluntary exercise on growth and food intake, body composition, organ weight, and fatty acid composition of adipose tissue of mice fed on a 20% casein diet or a 10% casein diet were examined. The weight gain was greater for the 20% casein nonexercise group (20% NE) than that for the 20% casein exercise group (20% E), 10% casein exercise group (10% E) and 10% casein nonexercise group (10% NE). There were no significant differences between the groups except the 20% NE. In 20% E and 10% E, body fats decreased markedly. On the other hand, a very high ratio of protein was present in the body composition of both groups. In the 20% and 10% casein diet groups, food intake was increased by voluntary exercise, but there was no significant difference between 10%E and 10% NE except occasional periods during these experiments. After 6 weeks of age, 10% E had a tendency to undertake more voluntary exercise than 20% E, though the difference was not statistically significant. Development of the heart and gastrocnemius muscles was accelerated by voluntary exercise and epididymal fat tissue was markedly decreased.", "contents": "Effect of voluntary exercise on physiological function and feeding behavior of mice on a 20% casein diet or a 10% casein diet. The effects of voluntary exercise on growth and food intake, body composition, organ weight, and fatty acid composition of adipose tissue of mice fed on a 20% casein diet or a 10% casein diet were examined. The weight gain was greater for the 20% casein nonexercise group (20% NE) than that for the 20% casein exercise group (20% E), 10% casein exercise group (10% E) and 10% casein nonexercise group (10% NE). There were no significant differences between the groups except the 20% NE. In 20% E and 10% E, body fats decreased markedly. On the other hand, a very high ratio of protein was present in the body composition of both groups. In the 20% and 10% casein diet groups, food intake was increased by voluntary exercise, but there was no significant difference between 10%E and 10% NE except occasional periods during these experiments. After 6 weeks of age, 10% E had a tendency to undertake more voluntary exercise than 20% E, though the difference was not statistically significant. Development of the heart and gastrocnemius muscles was accelerated by voluntary exercise and epididymal fat tissue was markedly decreased.", "PMID": 448475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8666", "title": "Subcellular ascorbic acid in scorbutic guinea pig brain.", "content": "In scorbutic guinea pigs fed an ascorbic acid-deficient diet for 18 days, the ascorbic acid contents of the liver and plasma were less than 4% those of the control animals, while the content in the brain was about one-third that of the controls. In normal animals, the concentration of ascrobic acid was highest (7.55 +/- 1.46 micrograms of ascorbic acid/mg protein) in the S3 fraction and was also fairly high (5.37 +/- 0.91) in the P2p fraction (cytoplasm of nerve terminals). During ascorbic acid deficiency, the contents in the P2p and microsome fractions decreased slightly faster than those in other fractions. Even after 18 days' deficiency, no significant change was found in the acetylcholine content of the brain.", "contents": "Subcellular ascorbic acid in scorbutic guinea pig brain. In scorbutic guinea pigs fed an ascorbic acid-deficient diet for 18 days, the ascorbic acid contents of the liver and plasma were less than 4% those of the control animals, while the content in the brain was about one-third that of the controls. In normal animals, the concentration of ascrobic acid was highest (7.55 +/- 1.46 micrograms of ascorbic acid/mg protein) in the S3 fraction and was also fairly high (5.37 +/- 0.91) in the P2p fraction (cytoplasm of nerve terminals). During ascorbic acid deficiency, the contents in the P2p and microsome fractions decreased slightly faster than those in other fractions. Even after 18 days' deficiency, no significant change was found in the acetylcholine content of the brain.", "PMID": 448477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8667", "title": "Isolation and characterization of trypsin inhibitors from wheat germ.", "content": "Trypsin inhibitors were isolated from wheat germ and two major inhibitors (trypsin inhibitors I and II) were purified by various chromatographies including ion-exchange chromatographies on DEAE-Sephadex and CM-Sephadex as well as gel filtration on Bio-gel and Sephadex. Both inhibitors were polypeptides composed solely of amino acids. In the presence of 1% SDS, inhibitor I showed a single symmetrical sedimentation boundary of 1.6 S and a single band in SDS-gel electrophoresis, but in the absence of SDS, it tended to aggregate. Inhibitor II was found to be homogeneous in gel electrophoresis and velocity sediemntation with or without SDS in the solutions. The molecular weights of inhibitors I and I were approxiamtely 16,000 and 10,000, respectively, by SDS-gel electrophoresis. Some other properties of the two inhibitors, including specific inhibitory activities, amino acid compositions and UV spectral properties are presented.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of trypsin inhibitors from wheat germ. Trypsin inhibitors were isolated from wheat germ and two major inhibitors (trypsin inhibitors I and II) were purified by various chromatographies including ion-exchange chromatographies on DEAE-Sephadex and CM-Sephadex as well as gel filtration on Bio-gel and Sephadex. Both inhibitors were polypeptides composed solely of amino acids. In the presence of 1% SDS, inhibitor I showed a single symmetrical sedimentation boundary of 1.6 S and a single band in SDS-gel electrophoresis, but in the absence of SDS, it tended to aggregate. Inhibitor II was found to be homogeneous in gel electrophoresis and velocity sediemntation with or without SDS in the solutions. The molecular weights of inhibitors I and I were approxiamtely 16,000 and 10,000, respectively, by SDS-gel electrophoresis. Some other properties of the two inhibitors, including specific inhibitory activities, amino acid compositions and UV spectral properties are presented.", "PMID": 448476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8668", "title": "Further heterogeneity within lethal neonatal short-limbed dwarfism: the platyspondylic types.", "content": "Twelve infants, initially considered to have thanatophoric dysplasia, were studied by a combined radiographic-histochemical-biochemical approach. Three distinct forms of platyspondylic lethal neonatal short-limbed dwarfism could be distinguished: (1) Thanatophoric type, (2) Torrance type, and (3) San Diego type. The latter two disorders had similar radiographic abnormalities that were clearly different from those of typical thanatophoric dysplasia. All three disorders had clearly different condroosseous histopathologic abnormalities. Preliminary biochemical studies have revealed different electrophorectic abnormalities in solubilized type II collagen chains of cartilage in each of these three disorders.", "contents": "Further heterogeneity within lethal neonatal short-limbed dwarfism: the platyspondylic types. Twelve infants, initially considered to have thanatophoric dysplasia, were studied by a combined radiographic-histochemical-biochemical approach. Three distinct forms of platyspondylic lethal neonatal short-limbed dwarfism could be distinguished: (1) Thanatophoric type, (2) Torrance type, and (3) San Diego type. The latter two disorders had similar radiographic abnormalities that were clearly different from those of typical thanatophoric dysplasia. All three disorders had clearly different condroosseous histopathologic abnormalities. Preliminary biochemical studies have revealed different electrophorectic abnormalities in solubilized type II collagen chains of cartilage in each of these three disorders.", "PMID": 448481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8669", "title": "Oxandrolone therapy in patients with Turner syndrome.", "content": "Long-term, low-dosage androgen treatment of patients with Turner syndrome results in more rapid growth and significantly greater adult height than in control patients who receive only estrogen for pubertal development. Seventeen patients treated with oxandrolone for one year and ten treated for two years had significantly greater growth velocities during than before treatment. Mean adult height of 25 patients treated with oxandrolone, fluoxymesterone, or both was significantly taller than the height of adult patients with Turner syndrome treated with estrogen only. Excessive skeletal maturation was not generally observed.", "contents": "Oxandrolone therapy in patients with Turner syndrome. Long-term, low-dosage androgen treatment of patients with Turner syndrome results in more rapid growth and significantly greater adult height than in control patients who receive only estrogen for pubertal development. Seventeen patients treated with oxandrolone for one year and ten treated for two years had significantly greater growth velocities during than before treatment. Mean adult height of 25 patients treated with oxandrolone, fluoxymesterone, or both was significantly taller than the height of adult patients with Turner syndrome treated with estrogen only. Excessive skeletal maturation was not generally observed.", "PMID": 448501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8670", "title": "Additional evidence against measles vaccine administration to infants less than 12 months of age: altered immune response following active/passive immunization.", "content": "Quantitative serologic responses following the inoculation of infants less than one year of age with live, further-attenuated measles virus vaccine were compared to those of infants and children inoculated after one year of age. Active/passive immunization resulted in reduced antibody formation in some infants especially those less than 9 months of age. Thirty-seven infants identified as \"vaccine failures\" following their initial inoculation at less than one year of age were revaccinated after one year of age. Fifty-one percent had no detectable HI antibody by eight months postrevaccination, contrasted to 6.8% of the vaccinees with no detectable HI antibody following one inoculation after one year of age; 49% responded optimally to revaccination. In face of an observed altered response in many infants less than one year of age, it would appear prudent to withhold vaccine in this age group until the consequences of such an approach are better defined.", "contents": "Additional evidence against measles vaccine administration to infants less than 12 months of age: altered immune response following active/passive immunization. Quantitative serologic responses following the inoculation of infants less than one year of age with live, further-attenuated measles virus vaccine were compared to those of infants and children inoculated after one year of age. Active/passive immunization resulted in reduced antibody formation in some infants especially those less than 9 months of age. Thirty-seven infants identified as \"vaccine failures\" following their initial inoculation at less than one year of age were revaccinated after one year of age. Fifty-one percent had no detectable HI antibody by eight months postrevaccination, contrasted to 6.8% of the vaccinees with no detectable HI antibody following one inoculation after one year of age; 49% responded optimally to revaccination. In face of an observed altered response in many infants less than one year of age, it would appear prudent to withhold vaccine in this age group until the consequences of such an approach are better defined.", "PMID": 448525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8671", "title": "Pathogenesis of rickets in chronic hepatobiliary disease in children.", "content": "To investigate whether hepatobiliary rickets is caused by defective intestinal absorption of vitamin D or by impaired hepatic hydroxylation of the vitamin, we studied three children who developed severe rickets, hypocalcemia, and hypophosphatemia, two despite having received 400 to 800 IU vitamin D per day by mouth, and one despite prolonged treatment with 10,000 IU daily. On oral vitamin D therapy, plasma vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were low. When two children were treated with weekly intravenous doses of 3,000 IU vitamin D to approximate the recommended prophylactic allowance, their plasma calcium and phosphate values improved promptly, the radiographic lesions healed, and the plasma concentrations of vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D became normal. Our studies indicate that the primary cause of hepatobiliary rickets is intestinal malabsorption of vitamin D, not impairment of the hepatic metabolism of the vitamin.", "contents": "Pathogenesis of rickets in chronic hepatobiliary disease in children. To investigate whether hepatobiliary rickets is caused by defective intestinal absorption of vitamin D or by impaired hepatic hydroxylation of the vitamin, we studied three children who developed severe rickets, hypocalcemia, and hypophosphatemia, two despite having received 400 to 800 IU vitamin D per day by mouth, and one despite prolonged treatment with 10,000 IU daily. On oral vitamin D therapy, plasma vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were low. When two children were treated with weekly intravenous doses of 3,000 IU vitamin D to approximate the recommended prophylactic allowance, their plasma calcium and phosphate values improved promptly, the radiographic lesions healed, and the plasma concentrations of vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D became normal. Our studies indicate that the primary cause of hepatobiliary rickets is intestinal malabsorption of vitamin D, not impairment of the hepatic metabolism of the vitamin.", "PMID": 448526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8672", "title": "The high risk of chronic liver disease in multitransfused juvenile hemophiliac patients.", "content": "Eighty-seven asymptomatic children with either hemophilia A or B were treated before they were 21 years of age. Seventy-two received factor concentrates and 15 cryoprecipitate or fresh-frozen plasma only. Thirty-two of the 72 in the former group have persistently elevated alanine aminotransferase values compared to one of 15 in the latter group. In a subset of children treated with factor concentrates before five years of age, four of seven are chronically HBsAg positive. Liver biopsies were performed in 13 of the 32 asymptomatic patients with abnormal ALT values in the fraction group. It is recommended that until further data become available, children with mild hemophilia and all less than 5 years of age should receive only cryo or FFP.", "contents": "The high risk of chronic liver disease in multitransfused juvenile hemophiliac patients. Eighty-seven asymptomatic children with either hemophilia A or B were treated before they were 21 years of age. Seventy-two received factor concentrates and 15 cryoprecipitate or fresh-frozen plasma only. Thirty-two of the 72 in the former group have persistently elevated alanine aminotransferase values compared to one of 15 in the latter group. In a subset of children treated with factor concentrates before five years of age, four of seven are chronically HBsAg positive. Liver biopsies were performed in 13 of the 32 asymptomatic patients with abnormal ALT values in the fraction group. It is recommended that until further data become available, children with mild hemophilia and all less than 5 years of age should receive only cryo or FFP.", "PMID": 448527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8673", "title": "Caroli disease: the diagnostic approach.", "content": "Two new pediatric examples of Caroli disease are reported; one was diagnosed by operative cholangiography and one by percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. Although a variety of approaches may lead one to suspect the diagnosis, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography is now the method of choice to establish the diagnosis.", "contents": "Caroli disease: the diagnostic approach. Two new pediatric examples of Caroli disease are reported; one was diagnosed by operative cholangiography and one by percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. Although a variety of approaches may lead one to suspect the diagnosis, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography is now the method of choice to establish the diagnosis.", "PMID": 448528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8674", "title": "The spectrum of the DiGeorge syndrome.", "content": "Clinical and autopsy data on 25 patients with DiGeorge syndrome and its variants are presented. Congenital heart disease was the most common presenting complaint; 15 patients came to medical attention in the first 48 hours of life because of cyanosis, cardiac murmurs, or tachycardia and tachypnea. Two unusual anomalies, interrupted aortic arch or truncus arteriosus, were seen in 17 patients. Clinically documented hypocalcemia associated with seizures was seen in ten patients, with a median age at onset of eight days. Fifteen of our 25 patients died at less than one month of age. Most of the patients surviving the first month of life developed purulent rhinitis, maculopapular rashes, failure to thrive, and developmental delay. Sixteen patients had major congenital anomalies not localized to the anterior neck and thorax; these anomalies included arhinencephaly, cleft lip, palate, or uvula, diaphragmatic abnormalities, hydronephrosis, malrotation of the gut and imperforate anus. The 24 autopsied cases constitute 0.7% of the 3,469 sequential postmortem studies done in the period 1950--1975 at The Children's Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center.", "contents": "The spectrum of the DiGeorge syndrome. Clinical and autopsy data on 25 patients with DiGeorge syndrome and its variants are presented. Congenital heart disease was the most common presenting complaint; 15 patients came to medical attention in the first 48 hours of life because of cyanosis, cardiac murmurs, or tachycardia and tachypnea. Two unusual anomalies, interrupted aortic arch or truncus arteriosus, were seen in 17 patients. Clinically documented hypocalcemia associated with seizures was seen in ten patients, with a median age at onset of eight days. Fifteen of our 25 patients died at less than one month of age. Most of the patients surviving the first month of life developed purulent rhinitis, maculopapular rashes, failure to thrive, and developmental delay. Sixteen patients had major congenital anomalies not localized to the anterior neck and thorax; these anomalies included arhinencephaly, cleft lip, palate, or uvula, diaphragmatic abnormalities, hydronephrosis, malrotation of the gut and imperforate anus. The 24 autopsied cases constitute 0.7% of the 3,469 sequential postmortem studies done in the period 1950--1975 at The Children's Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center.", "PMID": 448529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8675", "title": "Partial short arm deletions of the X chromosome and spontaneous pubertal development in girls with short stature.", "content": "Five additional examples of partial deletion of the short arm of the X chromosome are reported. All of the patients had short stature. The presence of the other stigmata of Turner syndrome, including ovarian dysfunction, appeared to depend on the location of the deletion. Chromosomal analysis of girls with short stature (less than 140 cm), normal pubertal development, and regular menses may reveal that minor deletions of the short arm of the X chromosome are more frequent than has been previously reported.", "contents": "Partial short arm deletions of the X chromosome and spontaneous pubertal development in girls with short stature. Five additional examples of partial deletion of the short arm of the X chromosome are reported. All of the patients had short stature. The presence of the other stigmata of Turner syndrome, including ovarian dysfunction, appeared to depend on the location of the deletion. Chromosomal analysis of girls with short stature (less than 140 cm), normal pubertal development, and regular menses may reveal that minor deletions of the short arm of the X chromosome are more frequent than has been previously reported.", "PMID": 448530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8676", "title": "Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates in newborn infants of polydrug users.", "content": "Thirty-three prospectively studied neonates born to mothers using methadone plus other drugs developed significant thrombocytosis by the second week of life compared to platelet counts performed during the first week. This increase persisted for over 16 weeks, with a further short-lived significant peak at 10 weeks of age. Platelet counts exceeding 1,000,000/mm3 were found in seven infants. Thrombocytosis was not related to withdrawal symptoms or treatment (phenobarbital or paregoric). No thrombocytosis was found in 36 normal control infants up to eight weeks of life. Twenty-eight of the study group infants were evaluated for circulating platelet aggregates. Thirteen patients had a normal aggregate index and a mean platelet count of 468,000/mm3; 15 patients had increased aggregates and mean platelet count of 754,000/mm3. The risk for increased circulating platelet aggregates correlated directly with an increase in platelet count. Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates may be factors in the pathogenesis of the focal infarcts, and subarachnoid and germinal plate hemorrhages, described at autopsy in infants of addicted mothers.", "contents": "Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates in newborn infants of polydrug users. Thirty-three prospectively studied neonates born to mothers using methadone plus other drugs developed significant thrombocytosis by the second week of life compared to platelet counts performed during the first week. This increase persisted for over 16 weeks, with a further short-lived significant peak at 10 weeks of age. Platelet counts exceeding 1,000,000/mm3 were found in seven infants. Thrombocytosis was not related to withdrawal symptoms or treatment (phenobarbital or paregoric). No thrombocytosis was found in 36 normal control infants up to eight weeks of life. Twenty-eight of the study group infants were evaluated for circulating platelet aggregates. Thirteen patients had a normal aggregate index and a mean platelet count of 468,000/mm3; 15 patients had increased aggregates and mean platelet count of 754,000/mm3. The risk for increased circulating platelet aggregates correlated directly with an increase in platelet count. Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates may be factors in the pathogenesis of the focal infarcts, and subarachnoid and germinal plate hemorrhages, described at autopsy in infants of addicted mothers.", "PMID": 448531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8677", "title": "Late-onset nonketotic hyperglycinemia and spinocerebellar degeneration.", "content": "Investigation of a 15-year old boy with progressive optic atrophy and spinocerebellar degeneration revealed elevated plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine glycine concentrations. During an oral glycine loading test, the patient's plasma glycine concentration rose to a higher level than control values, although the initial rate of rise was slower; there was no concomitant rise in the plasma serine concentration. An oral serine loading test resulted in a prompt rise of both glycine and serine serum concentrations. The renal glycine clearance was elevated, and the renal tubular glycine reabsorption was diminished. These findings of decreased intestinal uptake and increased renal tubular glycine clearance suggest that a generalized derangement of glycine entry into cells may account for the phenotypic manifestations of the disorder.", "contents": "Late-onset nonketotic hyperglycinemia and spinocerebellar degeneration. Investigation of a 15-year old boy with progressive optic atrophy and spinocerebellar degeneration revealed elevated plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine glycine concentrations. During an oral glycine loading test, the patient's plasma glycine concentration rose to a higher level than control values, although the initial rate of rise was slower; there was no concomitant rise in the plasma serine concentration. An oral serine loading test resulted in a prompt rise of both glycine and serine serum concentrations. The renal glycine clearance was elevated, and the renal tubular glycine reabsorption was diminished. These findings of decreased intestinal uptake and increased renal tubular glycine clearance suggest that a generalized derangement of glycine entry into cells may account for the phenotypic manifestations of the disorder.", "PMID": 448532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8678", "title": "Acute suppurative thyroiditis in children.", "content": "Ten cases of acute suppurative thyroiditis were studied. All patients remained euthyroid clinically during the course of this disease and during the follow-up. Of seven cases in which bacterial cultures were performed, an aerobic bacterium alone was isolated in one patient and anaerobic bacteria alone in four patients. Mixed aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms were recovered from one patient and cultures were negative in one case. Plasma TSH, T4, T3, and PBI levels were normal except in one case. The 131I uptake values were normal in six of seven cases. Plasma TSH response to TRH stimulation was normal in four of five cases. Antibodies against thyroglobulin and thyroid microsome were negative in four of six cases. These findings suggest that anaerobic bacteria may play an important role in the pathogenic process of acute suppurative thyroiditis and that the pituitary-thyroid functions are not impaired.", "contents": "Acute suppurative thyroiditis in children. Ten cases of acute suppurative thyroiditis were studied. All patients remained euthyroid clinically during the course of this disease and during the follow-up. Of seven cases in which bacterial cultures were performed, an aerobic bacterium alone was isolated in one patient and anaerobic bacteria alone in four patients. Mixed aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms were recovered from one patient and cultures were negative in one case. Plasma TSH, T4, T3, and PBI levels were normal except in one case. The 131I uptake values were normal in six of seven cases. Plasma TSH response to TRH stimulation was normal in four of five cases. Antibodies against thyroglobulin and thyroid microsome were negative in four of six cases. These findings suggest that anaerobic bacteria may play an important role in the pathogenic process of acute suppurative thyroiditis and that the pituitary-thyroid functions are not impaired.", "PMID": 448533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8679", "title": "Pulmonary excretion of carbon monoxide in the human infant as an index of bilirubin production. I. Effects of gestational and postnatal age and some common neonatal abnormalities.", "content": "Using a single pass, flow-through system, the pulmonary excretion rate of endogenously produced carbon monoxide was measured as an index of bilirubin production in human infants with varying gestational and postnatal ages and with a variety of clinical abnormalities. No significant difference in VECO was found related to sex or gestational age. The mean VECO for a small group of Oriental infants was significantly increased. VECO decreased with increasing postnatal age. As expected, infants with hemolytic disease of the newborn had a markedly increased mean VECO. Infants with jaundice of unknown etiology also had an elevated mean VECO, implying that increased bilirubin production may be a factor contributing to the \"nonphysiologic\" bilirubinemias of these infants.", "contents": "Pulmonary excretion of carbon monoxide in the human infant as an index of bilirubin production. I. Effects of gestational and postnatal age and some common neonatal abnormalities. Using a single pass, flow-through system, the pulmonary excretion rate of endogenously produced carbon monoxide was measured as an index of bilirubin production in human infants with varying gestational and postnatal ages and with a variety of clinical abnormalities. No significant difference in VECO was found related to sex or gestational age. The mean VECO for a small group of Oriental infants was significantly increased. VECO decreased with increasing postnatal age. As expected, infants with hemolytic disease of the newborn had a markedly increased mean VECO. Infants with jaundice of unknown etiology also had an elevated mean VECO, implying that increased bilirubin production may be a factor contributing to the \"nonphysiologic\" bilirubinemias of these infants.", "PMID": 448544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8680", "title": "Metabolism of theophylline to caffeine in premature newborn infants.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of theophylline and caffeine in seven premature neonates receiving theophylline orally for treatment of apnea at age one to 9 days were measured by high performance liquid chromatography, ultraviolet spectrophotometry, and mass spectrometry. Plasma concentrations of caffeine increased from 1.8 mg/l (range = 0.1 to 3.7) at day one to 3.7 mg/l (1.3 to 8.0) seven days after initiation of theophylline therapy. Similarly, plasma concentrations of theophylline were 4.6 mg/l (1.5 to 7.5) and 11.0 mg/l (4.0 to 19.0) on days one and 7 of theophylline therapy, respectively. In contrast, four normal adult volunteers given theophylline orally for eight to ten days had plasma theophylline concentrations ranging from 3 to 14 mg/l but no measurable caffeine. This indicates that caffeine is a biotransformation product of theophylline in premature neonates and that the metabolic pathway followed by theophylline in premature infants includes a methylation reaction producing caffeine, whereas in adults, the major metabolic pathway involves oxidative reactions (demethylation and oxidation). Some pharmacologic effects attributed to theophylline during chronic therapy for apnea may in part be due to caffeine. Routine monitoring during theophylline therapy in premature neonates with apnea should include plasma concentrations of both theophylline and caffeine in order to assess the total methylxanthine load.", "contents": "Metabolism of theophylline to caffeine in premature newborn infants. Plasma concentrations of theophylline and caffeine in seven premature neonates receiving theophylline orally for treatment of apnea at age one to 9 days were measured by high performance liquid chromatography, ultraviolet spectrophotometry, and mass spectrometry. Plasma concentrations of caffeine increased from 1.8 mg/l (range = 0.1 to 3.7) at day one to 3.7 mg/l (1.3 to 8.0) seven days after initiation of theophylline therapy. Similarly, plasma concentrations of theophylline were 4.6 mg/l (1.5 to 7.5) and 11.0 mg/l (4.0 to 19.0) on days one and 7 of theophylline therapy, respectively. In contrast, four normal adult volunteers given theophylline orally for eight to ten days had plasma theophylline concentrations ranging from 3 to 14 mg/l but no measurable caffeine. This indicates that caffeine is a biotransformation product of theophylline in premature neonates and that the metabolic pathway followed by theophylline in premature infants includes a methylation reaction producing caffeine, whereas in adults, the major metabolic pathway involves oxidative reactions (demethylation and oxidation). Some pharmacologic effects attributed to theophylline during chronic therapy for apnea may in part be due to caffeine. Routine monitoring during theophylline therapy in premature neonates with apnea should include plasma concentrations of both theophylline and caffeine in order to assess the total methylxanthine load.", "PMID": 448554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8681", "title": "1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 in childhood hepatic osteodystrophy.", "content": "Osteodystrophy frequently accompanies severe childhood hepatobiliary disease. Proposed causes include malabsorption of vitamin D and calcium, and diminished 25-hydroxylation of vitamin D. Two children, ages 23 and 35 months, with radiographic and biochemical evidence of rickets with extrahepatic biliary atresia, were treated with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The minimal effective therapeutic dose and efficacy of 1,25-(OH)2D3 in the treatment of rickets associated with severe childhood hepatic disease were determined. Oral 1,25-(OH)2D3 was ineffective at doses of 0.10 microgram/kg/day. Parenteral doses of 0.20 microgram/kg/day effectively produced radiographic, bone mineral (photon absorptiometric), and biochemical evidence of healing. The need for four times the physiologic dose of 1,25-(OH)2D3 by the parenteral route suggested enhanced catabolism of, or end-organ resistance to, 1,25-(OH)2D3 in our patients with severe cholestatic liver disease treated with phenobarbital.", "contents": "1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 in childhood hepatic osteodystrophy. Osteodystrophy frequently accompanies severe childhood hepatobiliary disease. Proposed causes include malabsorption of vitamin D and calcium, and diminished 25-hydroxylation of vitamin D. Two children, ages 23 and 35 months, with radiographic and biochemical evidence of rickets with extrahepatic biliary atresia, were treated with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The minimal effective therapeutic dose and efficacy of 1,25-(OH)2D3 in the treatment of rickets associated with severe childhood hepatic disease were determined. Oral 1,25-(OH)2D3 was ineffective at doses of 0.10 microgram/kg/day. Parenteral doses of 0.20 microgram/kg/day effectively produced radiographic, bone mineral (photon absorptiometric), and biochemical evidence of healing. The need for four times the physiologic dose of 1,25-(OH)2D3 by the parenteral route suggested enhanced catabolism of, or end-organ resistance to, 1,25-(OH)2D3 in our patients with severe cholestatic liver disease treated with phenobarbital.", "PMID": 448553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8682", "title": "The etiologic and epidemiologic spectrum of bronchiolitis in pediatric practice.", "content": "To develop a broad understanding of the causes and patterns of occurrence of wheezing associated respiratory infections, we analyzed data from an 11-year study of acute lower respiratory illness in a pediatric practice. Although half of the WARI occurred in children less than 2 years of age, wheezing continued to be observed in 19% of children greater than 9 years of age who had lower respiratory illness. Males experienced LRI 1.25 times more often than did females; the relative risk of males for WARI was 1.35. A nonbacterial pathogen was recovered from 21% of patients with WARI; respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus types 1 and 3, adenoviruses, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae accounted for 81% of the isolates. Patient age influenced the pattern of recovery of these agents. The most common cause of WARI in children under 5 years of age was RSV whereas Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the most frequent isolate from school age children with wheezing illness. The data expand our understanding of the causes of WARI and are useful to diagnosticians and to researchers interested in the control of lower respiratory disease.", "contents": "The etiologic and epidemiologic spectrum of bronchiolitis in pediatric practice. To develop a broad understanding of the causes and patterns of occurrence of wheezing associated respiratory infections, we analyzed data from an 11-year study of acute lower respiratory illness in a pediatric practice. Although half of the WARI occurred in children less than 2 years of age, wheezing continued to be observed in 19% of children greater than 9 years of age who had lower respiratory illness. Males experienced LRI 1.25 times more often than did females; the relative risk of males for WARI was 1.35. A nonbacterial pathogen was recovered from 21% of patients with WARI; respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus types 1 and 3, adenoviruses, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae accounted for 81% of the isolates. Patient age influenced the pattern of recovery of these agents. The most common cause of WARI in children under 5 years of age was RSV whereas Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the most frequent isolate from school age children with wheezing illness. The data expand our understanding of the causes of WARI and are useful to diagnosticians and to researchers interested in the control of lower respiratory disease.", "PMID": 448557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8683", "title": "Ventilatory functions of normal children and young adults--Mexican-American, white, and black. II. Wright peak flowmeter.", "content": "A study was undertaken to establish the normal values of peak expiratory flow rate using the WPFM in three ethnic groups. This report is based on the testing of 1,805 healthy students 7 to 20 years of age in the Houston public schools. Significant differences of WPFR are noted among the three races, and between boys and girls. Prediction equations and regression lines are presented for each sex/race group. The performance of the WPFM is compared with that of the spirometer.", "contents": "Ventilatory functions of normal children and young adults--Mexican-American, white, and black. II. Wright peak flowmeter. A study was undertaken to establish the normal values of peak expiratory flow rate using the WPFM in three ethnic groups. This report is based on the testing of 1,805 healthy students 7 to 20 years of age in the Houston public schools. Significant differences of WPFR are noted among the three races, and between boys and girls. Prediction equations and regression lines are presented for each sex/race group. The performance of the WPFM is compared with that of the spirometer.", "PMID": 448558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8684", "title": "Cutaneous necrotizing venulitis in patients with cystic fibrosis.", "content": "Palpable purpura was noted to occur late in the course of some patients with cystic fibrosis. Skin biopsy specimens showed necrotizing venulitis characterized by a perivenular infiltrate composed of neutrophilic leukocytes, fibrin, hypogranulated mast cells, and endothelial cell necrosis. Circulating immune complexes were detected. Recurrent pulmonary infections and the chronic administration of therapeutic agents provide sources of potential antigens.", "contents": "Cutaneous necrotizing venulitis in patients with cystic fibrosis. Palpable purpura was noted to occur late in the course of some patients with cystic fibrosis. Skin biopsy specimens showed necrotizing venulitis characterized by a perivenular infiltrate composed of neutrophilic leukocytes, fibrin, hypogranulated mast cells, and endothelial cell necrosis. Circulating immune complexes were detected. Recurrent pulmonary infections and the chronic administration of therapeutic agents provide sources of potential antigens.", "PMID": 448559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8685", "title": "Hyperreninemia and hyperaldosteronism in sickle cell anemia.", "content": "Fourteen patients with sickle cell anemia, ages 6 to 20 years, were studied while ingesting high- and low-sodium diets. Although none of the patients had excessive urinary loss of sodium, the majority had elevated plasma renin activities and aldosterone secretion rates. The PRA was higher in patients over 10 years of age; ASR in patients receiving the high-sodium diet increased with age. Patients with sickle cell anemia appeared to compensate for urinary sodium loss between crises. The mechanism of this loss could be a defect in the function of either the distal tubule or the loop of Henle.", "contents": "Hyperreninemia and hyperaldosteronism in sickle cell anemia. Fourteen patients with sickle cell anemia, ages 6 to 20 years, were studied while ingesting high- and low-sodium diets. Although none of the patients had excessive urinary loss of sodium, the majority had elevated plasma renin activities and aldosterone secretion rates. The PRA was higher in patients over 10 years of age; ASR in patients receiving the high-sodium diet increased with age. Patients with sickle cell anemia appeared to compensate for urinary sodium loss between crises. The mechanism of this loss could be a defect in the function of either the distal tubule or the loop of Henle.", "PMID": 448560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8686", "title": "Childhood Cushing disease: results of bilateral adrenalectomy.", "content": "In view of the published reports of the successful correction of hypercortisolism in adult patients with Cushing disease by external pituitary irradiation and transsphenoidal pituitary microsurgery, leaving the patients with intact pituitary and adrenocortical function, we have reviewed the results of adrenalectomy in childhood Cushing disease seen at the Mayo Clinic. Twenty-seven patients were treated with total (16 patients) or subtotal (11 patients) bilateral adrenalectomy before the age of 20 years. Follow-up ranged from one to 27 years. Although hypercortisolism was corrected in all but one patient, 12 (45%) patients had roentgenographic evidence of a pituitary tumor and six (22%) of these required pituitary surgery. An additional six patients (22%) were pigmented, but had no abnormality on roentgenographic studies. The remaining nine patients (33%) were well, without evidence of pituitary tumor. We conclude that alternate forms of therapy should be considered for childhood Cushing disease.", "contents": "Childhood Cushing disease: results of bilateral adrenalectomy. In view of the published reports of the successful correction of hypercortisolism in adult patients with Cushing disease by external pituitary irradiation and transsphenoidal pituitary microsurgery, leaving the patients with intact pituitary and adrenocortical function, we have reviewed the results of adrenalectomy in childhood Cushing disease seen at the Mayo Clinic. Twenty-seven patients were treated with total (16 patients) or subtotal (11 patients) bilateral adrenalectomy before the age of 20 years. Follow-up ranged from one to 27 years. Although hypercortisolism was corrected in all but one patient, 12 (45%) patients had roentgenographic evidence of a pituitary tumor and six (22%) of these required pituitary surgery. An additional six patients (22%) were pigmented, but had no abnormality on roentgenographic studies. The remaining nine patients (33%) were well, without evidence of pituitary tumor. We conclude that alternate forms of therapy should be considered for childhood Cushing disease.", "PMID": 448561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8687", "title": "Secondary sex characteristics of boys 12 to 17 years of age: the U.S. Health Examination Survey.", "content": "Data from the United States Health Examination Survey, Cycle III, were used to describe secondary sexual characteristics and their relationship to skeletal age in a representative sample of adolescent males aged 12 to 17 years. This survey utilized a national probability sample of youths selected to represent the U.S. population with respect to age, race, sex, geographic region, and socioeconomic status. Good concordance was found between Tanner stages for pubic hair and for genitalia. Sexual characteristics developed similarly for white and black boys, and socioeconomic status did not influence this development. Skeletal age and serum urate levels were closely related to development of pubic hair and genitalia. These data permit the physician to compare the development of individual patients with a representative sample of contemporaneous U.S. boys.", "contents": "Secondary sex characteristics of boys 12 to 17 years of age: the U.S. Health Examination Survey. Data from the United States Health Examination Survey, Cycle III, were used to describe secondary sexual characteristics and their relationship to skeletal age in a representative sample of adolescent males aged 12 to 17 years. This survey utilized a national probability sample of youths selected to represent the U.S. population with respect to age, race, sex, geographic region, and socioeconomic status. Good concordance was found between Tanner stages for pubic hair and for genitalia. Sexual characteristics developed similarly for white and black boys, and socioeconomic status did not influence this development. Skeletal age and serum urate levels were closely related to development of pubic hair and genitalia. These data permit the physician to compare the development of individual patients with a representative sample of contemporaneous U.S. boys.", "PMID": 448573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8688", "title": "Blood pressure in a high school population. II. Clinical profile of the juvenile hypertensive.", "content": "One-hundred-fourteen hypertensive high school students were evaluated to determine whether a distinctive clinical profile could be identified; 71 normotensive students served as controls. Selected blood chemistry determinations, urinalysis, and chest roentgenograms were done to help rule out secondary causes of hypertension. Left ventricular function was assessed by echocardiography and systolic time intervals. The hemodynamic response to exercise was also evaluated. A significant number of the subjects 14 to 18 years of age with persistent systolic and/or diastolic pressure 1.65 SD above the mean for age and sex showed the following: obesity; elevated serum triglyceride concentration; basilar hypertrophy by electrocardiogram/vectorcardiogram; electromechanical systole and pre-ejection period shorter, and the ratio of the pre-ejection period over the left ventricular ejection time lower, than mean for age and sex as determined by systolic time intervals; volume indices depressed and cardiac contractile functions elevated as determined by echocardiography; higher blood pressure at start of exercise stress test and higher peak systolic and diastolic pressures during test, and a slower return of heart rate to base line level after the test. The above findings should be useful in following the course of a young individual with essential hypertension and may provide a means of evaluating therapeutic intervention.", "contents": "Blood pressure in a high school population. II. Clinical profile of the juvenile hypertensive. One-hundred-fourteen hypertensive high school students were evaluated to determine whether a distinctive clinical profile could be identified; 71 normotensive students served as controls. Selected blood chemistry determinations, urinalysis, and chest roentgenograms were done to help rule out secondary causes of hypertension. Left ventricular function was assessed by echocardiography and systolic time intervals. The hemodynamic response to exercise was also evaluated. A significant number of the subjects 14 to 18 years of age with persistent systolic and/or diastolic pressure 1.65 SD above the mean for age and sex showed the following: obesity; elevated serum triglyceride concentration; basilar hypertrophy by electrocardiogram/vectorcardiogram; electromechanical systole and pre-ejection period shorter, and the ratio of the pre-ejection period over the left ventricular ejection time lower, than mean for age and sex as determined by systolic time intervals; volume indices depressed and cardiac contractile functions elevated as determined by echocardiography; higher blood pressure at start of exercise stress test and higher peak systolic and diastolic pressures during test, and a slower return of heart rate to base line level after the test. The above findings should be useful in following the course of a young individual with essential hypertension and may provide a means of evaluating therapeutic intervention.", "PMID": 448574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8689", "title": "Management of the suicidal adolescent on a nonpsychiatric adolescent unit.", "content": "Suicide attempts by adolescents far outnumber suicide fatalities, yet there is lack of agreement regarding the optimal approach to their immediate care. Since 1968, we have admitted all such patients to a general adolescent in-patient unit. A review of the first 100 admissions of adolescents who had attempted suicide was undertaken to determine the safety, economy, and efficacy of this practice. During an average six-day hospitalization, 12 patients required constant nursing observation for more than one day, and six received tranquilizers. No major disruption on the unit, suicide attempts, or self-abusive acts occurred. Twelve patients required subsequent transfer to in-patient psychiatric facilities because of on-going suicidal ideation or psychosis or both. Hospitalization on a general unit for adolescent survivors of suicide attempts is safe, usually adds minimal cost to ordinary hospital care, permits meticulous medical attention for poisoning, and provides a stabilizing influence following a major life crisis.", "contents": "Management of the suicidal adolescent on a nonpsychiatric adolescent unit. Suicide attempts by adolescents far outnumber suicide fatalities, yet there is lack of agreement regarding the optimal approach to their immediate care. Since 1968, we have admitted all such patients to a general adolescent in-patient unit. A review of the first 100 admissions of adolescents who had attempted suicide was undertaken to determine the safety, economy, and efficacy of this practice. During an average six-day hospitalization, 12 patients required constant nursing observation for more than one day, and six received tranquilizers. No major disruption on the unit, suicide attempts, or self-abusive acts occurred. Twelve patients required subsequent transfer to in-patient psychiatric facilities because of on-going suicidal ideation or psychosis or both. Hospitalization on a general unit for adolescent survivors of suicide attempts is safe, usually adds minimal cost to ordinary hospital care, permits meticulous medical attention for poisoning, and provides a stabilizing influence following a major life crisis.", "PMID": 448575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8690", "title": "Disposition of indomethacin in preterm infants.", "content": "Indomethacin is currently used for the pharmacologic closure of PDA in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. However, the response to the drug has been variable and the disposition of the drug in preterm infants is not well understood. We studied the pharmacokinetics of indomethacin in nine preterm infants with birth weights ranging from 800 to 1,960 gm and gestational ages of 28 to 36 weeks. Three different dose schedules (0.1, 0.25, 0.3 mg/kg dose) were used. The plasma half-life of indomethacin ranged from 11 to 20 hours. Peak levels were achieved within four hours and ranged from 0.027 to 0.310 microgram/ml. The half-life in infants less than 32 weeks' gestation was significantly prolonged compared to that in infants greater than 32 weeks. Protein-binding studies with 14C indomethacin showed that 98% of indomethacin was protein bound. Absorption of orally administered indomethacin appears to be poor and incomplete. No immediate major complications could be correlated to indomethacin therapy in this study.", "contents": "Disposition of indomethacin in preterm infants. Indomethacin is currently used for the pharmacologic closure of PDA in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. However, the response to the drug has been variable and the disposition of the drug in preterm infants is not well understood. We studied the pharmacokinetics of indomethacin in nine preterm infants with birth weights ranging from 800 to 1,960 gm and gestational ages of 28 to 36 weeks. Three different dose schedules (0.1, 0.25, 0.3 mg/kg dose) were used. The plasma half-life of indomethacin ranged from 11 to 20 hours. Peak levels were achieved within four hours and ranged from 0.027 to 0.310 microgram/ml. The half-life in infants less than 32 weeks' gestation was significantly prolonged compared to that in infants greater than 32 weeks. Protein-binding studies with 14C indomethacin showed that 98% of indomethacin was protein bound. Absorption of orally administered indomethacin appears to be poor and incomplete. No immediate major complications could be correlated to indomethacin therapy in this study.", "PMID": 448576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8691", "title": "Capillaria hepatica (Bancroft) in select rat populations of Hartford, Connecticut, with possible public health implications.", "content": "Capillaria hepatica was found in 82% of 86 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) trapped in Hartford, Connecticut between February and November 1975. Adults were parasitized more frequently than juveniles and infection rate did not differ between sexes. Rats demonstrated a low intensity of infection, with 9% having extensive liver involvement. A seasonal variation in infection rate may have been a manifestation of environmental factors, cannibalism, and predation.", "contents": "Capillaria hepatica (Bancroft) in select rat populations of Hartford, Connecticut, with possible public health implications. Capillaria hepatica was found in 82% of 86 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) trapped in Hartford, Connecticut between February and November 1975. Adults were parasitized more frequently than juveniles and infection rate did not differ between sexes. Rats demonstrated a low intensity of infection, with 9% having extensive liver involvement. A seasonal variation in infection rate may have been a manifestation of environmental factors, cannibalism, and predation.", "PMID": 448586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8692", "title": "The site of action of the anticoccidial salinomycin (Coxistac).", "content": "The anticoccidial salinomycin has a cidal effect against chicken coccidia. Restricted and unrestricted medication studies and histopathological examinations of chicks infected with Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, or E. tenella showed that parasites were destroyed within host cells during asexual development. Most sporozoites failed to become trophozoites and were destroyed 30--72 hr after ingestion of oocysts. The drug also affected schizonts during initial nuclear replication by either destroying or significantly delaying their maturation. Parasites affected by the drug were distorted grossly. Drug action against gametogony was not observed histologically, but when medication was restricted to this period of the life cycle, subsequent oocyst shedding of all 3 species was reduced by 20--70% compared to unmedicated controls. When drug was provided during the entire parasite life cycle, activity against asexual stages was so complete that only a limited number of parasites survived to form gamonts, and oocyst shedding was reduced by 80--90% relative to controls. As with other ionophores, salinomycin had no effect upon rate of oocyst sporulation.", "contents": "The site of action of the anticoccidial salinomycin (Coxistac). The anticoccidial salinomycin has a cidal effect against chicken coccidia. Restricted and unrestricted medication studies and histopathological examinations of chicks infected with Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, or E. tenella showed that parasites were destroyed within host cells during asexual development. Most sporozoites failed to become trophozoites and were destroyed 30--72 hr after ingestion of oocysts. The drug also affected schizonts during initial nuclear replication by either destroying or significantly delaying their maturation. Parasites affected by the drug were distorted grossly. Drug action against gametogony was not observed histologically, but when medication was restricted to this period of the life cycle, subsequent oocyst shedding of all 3 species was reduced by 20--70% compared to unmedicated controls. When drug was provided during the entire parasite life cycle, activity against asexual stages was so complete that only a limited number of parasites survived to form gamonts, and oocyst shedding was reduced by 80--90% relative to controls. As with other ionophores, salinomycin had no effect upon rate of oocyst sporulation.", "PMID": 448588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8693", "title": "Morphology and life history of Alaria mustelae Bosma 1931 (Trematoda: Diplostomatidae) from Minnesota mustelids.", "content": "On the bases of morphological and life history studies, flukes of the subgenus Paralaria from Minnesota mustelids were identified as Alaria (Paralaria) mustelae Bosma 1931. Alaria (P.) canadensis Webster and Wolfgang 1956 and A. (P.) taxideae Swanson and Erickson 1946 are synonyms of A. mustelae (new synonymy).", "contents": "Morphology and life history of Alaria mustelae Bosma 1931 (Trematoda: Diplostomatidae) from Minnesota mustelids. On the bases of morphological and life history studies, flukes of the subgenus Paralaria from Minnesota mustelids were identified as Alaria (Paralaria) mustelae Bosma 1931. Alaria (P.) canadensis Webster and Wolfgang 1956 and A. (P.) taxideae Swanson and Erickson 1946 are synonyms of A. mustelae (new synonymy).", "PMID": 448589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8694", "title": "Geographic and host-related variation among species of Fessisentis (Acanthocephala) and confirmation of the Fessisentis fessus life cycle.", "content": "Specimens of the 4 known species of Fessisentis, acquired through new collections in 6 states and laboratory infections, were compared with existing descriptions and collections. It was concluded that the number od longitudinal rows of proboscis hooks and lengths of proboscis receptacles, largest proboscis hooks, and reproductive systems are not useful in distinguishing the species. Egg size is of limited usefulness. Regardless of host or geographical locality, proboscis shape and length, the number of proboscis hooks in each longitudinal row, hook shape and size distribution, number of testes, number of cement glands, and female genital pore position are consistent differences. Cystacanths of Fessisentis fessus occurred in aquatic isopods, Asellus forbesi and Lirceus lineatus, in Jackson County, Illinois, where Siren intermedia is the usual definitive host. Laboratory infections confirmed the life cycle of this species.", "contents": "Geographic and host-related variation among species of Fessisentis (Acanthocephala) and confirmation of the Fessisentis fessus life cycle. Specimens of the 4 known species of Fessisentis, acquired through new collections in 6 states and laboratory infections, were compared with existing descriptions and collections. It was concluded that the number od longitudinal rows of proboscis hooks and lengths of proboscis receptacles, largest proboscis hooks, and reproductive systems are not useful in distinguishing the species. Egg size is of limited usefulness. Regardless of host or geographical locality, proboscis shape and length, the number of proboscis hooks in each longitudinal row, hook shape and size distribution, number of testes, number of cement glands, and female genital pore position are consistent differences. Cystacanths of Fessisentis fessus occurred in aquatic isopods, Asellus forbesi and Lirceus lineatus, in Jackson County, Illinois, where Siren intermedia is the usual definitive host. Laboratory infections confirmed the life cycle of this species.", "PMID": 448590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8695", "title": "Observations on the subgenus Argas (Ixodoidea: argasidae: Argas). 17. Argas (A.) polonicus sp. n. parasitizing domestic pigeons in Krakow, Poland.", "content": "Argas (A.) polonicus sp. n. is described from males, females, nymphs, and larvae from the steeple tower of St. Mary's Church, Karkow, Poland, where it feeds on domestic rock pigeons, Columba livia Gmelin. This species is related to the widely distributed Eurasian A. (A.) vulgaris Filippova and to certain other species of the eastern area of the Palearctic Faunal Region; it differs distinctly from A. (A.) reflexus (Fabricius) of western Europe. Comparative study under the light microscope. and especially under the scanning electron microscope, reveals numerous structural differences in adult and immature stages of these species, chiefly in the Haller's organ roof of each stage, adult body shape and integumental formations, dental formulae, and setal lengths and numbers on the larval dorsum.", "contents": "Observations on the subgenus Argas (Ixodoidea: argasidae: Argas). 17. Argas (A.) polonicus sp. n. parasitizing domestic pigeons in Krakow, Poland. Argas (A.) polonicus sp. n. is described from males, females, nymphs, and larvae from the steeple tower of St. Mary's Church, Karkow, Poland, where it feeds on domestic rock pigeons, Columba livia Gmelin. This species is related to the widely distributed Eurasian A. (A.) vulgaris Filippova and to certain other species of the eastern area of the Palearctic Faunal Region; it differs distinctly from A. (A.) reflexus (Fabricius) of western Europe. Comparative study under the light microscope. and especially under the scanning electron microscope, reveals numerous structural differences in adult and immature stages of these species, chiefly in the Haller's organ roof of each stage, adult body shape and integumental formations, dental formulae, and setal lengths and numbers on the larval dorsum.", "PMID": 448591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8696", "title": "Effect of mebendazole on the larval development of three Hymenolepidid cestodes.", "content": "Mebendazole or Telmin (which contains 16.7% mebendazole) markedly retarded the development of Hymenolepis diminuta and H. nana when their intermediate hosts Tribolium confusum were fed on flour mixed with it from day 1 to day 10 p.i. Though retardation also occurred with H. microstoma, the effect of the drug on this parasite was noticeably less pronounced than with the other 2 species of this genus.", "contents": "Effect of mebendazole on the larval development of three Hymenolepidid cestodes. Mebendazole or Telmin (which contains 16.7% mebendazole) markedly retarded the development of Hymenolepis diminuta and H. nana when their intermediate hosts Tribolium confusum were fed on flour mixed with it from day 1 to day 10 p.i. Though retardation also occurred with H. microstoma, the effect of the drug on this parasite was noticeably less pronounced than with the other 2 species of this genus.", "PMID": 448594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8697", "title": "Studies on encystment of Echinostoma revolutum cercariae.", "content": "Cercariae of Echinostoma revolutum encysted in the kidney of the snail Physa heterostropha within 1 hr and on mucus trails from Helisoma trivolvis, P. heterostropha and Lymnaea sp. within 2 hr. Significantly, more normal cysts were formed in mucus of Helisoma than in mucus of Physa or Lymnaea. Optimal, in vitro encystment occurred within 24 h in either Locke's 1 : 1 or Locke's 1 : 1 + 1% glucose. Significantly more normal cysts occurred in the Locke's 1 : 1 medium. Both normal and abnormal cysts from Lock's media and snail mucus excysted in an alkaline bile trypsin medium. Cercariae did not encyst in Lock'e media supplemented with casein hydrolysate or in agar cultures containing various chemicals.", "contents": "Studies on encystment of Echinostoma revolutum cercariae. Cercariae of Echinostoma revolutum encysted in the kidney of the snail Physa heterostropha within 1 hr and on mucus trails from Helisoma trivolvis, P. heterostropha and Lymnaea sp. within 2 hr. Significantly, more normal cysts were formed in mucus of Helisoma than in mucus of Physa or Lymnaea. Optimal, in vitro encystment occurred within 24 h in either Locke's 1 : 1 or Locke's 1 : 1 + 1% glucose. Significantly more normal cysts occurred in the Locke's 1 : 1 medium. Both normal and abnormal cysts from Lock's media and snail mucus excysted in an alkaline bile trypsin medium. Cercariae did not encyst in Lock'e media supplemented with casein hydrolysate or in agar cultures containing various chemicals.", "PMID": 448597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8698", "title": "Behavioral responses of Schistosoma mansoni miracidia in concentration gradients of snail-conditioned water.", "content": "Movement patterns of Schistosoma mansoni miracidia were examined in several concentrations and gradients of snail-conditioned water (SCW). Miracidia surrounded by uniform concentrations of SCW swam at the same speed and exhibited the same rate of turning (angular velocity) as did control miracidia swimming in spring water. However, miracidia in gradients of SCW exhibited a 3-fold increase in their angular velocity without altering their swimming speed. Miracidia ascending gradients of SCW did not increase their angular velocity and failed to orient to the gradient of the stimulant. In contrast, miracidia which encountered sufficiently abrupt decreases in SCW concentration, while descending the gradient, sharply increased their angular velocity. This behavior caused miracidia to remain in regions of high concentration of stimulant. The magnitude of decrease in SCW concentration needed to evoke this response depended on the absolute concentration of SCW. Thus, the miracidial response is a \"boundary reaction\", a form of chemoklinokinesis, and not a chemotaxis.", "contents": "Behavioral responses of Schistosoma mansoni miracidia in concentration gradients of snail-conditioned water. Movement patterns of Schistosoma mansoni miracidia were examined in several concentrations and gradients of snail-conditioned water (SCW). Miracidia surrounded by uniform concentrations of SCW swam at the same speed and exhibited the same rate of turning (angular velocity) as did control miracidia swimming in spring water. However, miracidia in gradients of SCW exhibited a 3-fold increase in their angular velocity without altering their swimming speed. Miracidia ascending gradients of SCW did not increase their angular velocity and failed to orient to the gradient of the stimulant. In contrast, miracidia which encountered sufficiently abrupt decreases in SCW concentration, while descending the gradient, sharply increased their angular velocity. This behavior caused miracidia to remain in regions of high concentration of stimulant. The magnitude of decrease in SCW concentration needed to evoke this response depended on the absolute concentration of SCW. Thus, the miracidial response is a \"boundary reaction\", a form of chemoklinokinesis, and not a chemotaxis.", "PMID": 448598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8699", "title": "Effect of duration and intensity of infection with Echinostoma audyi on survival of Lymnaea rubiginosa exposed to copper sulfate.", "content": "Lymnaea rubiginosa infected with 1 to 5 miracidia of Echinostoma audyi for 1, 2, 3, and 5 weeks, and snails infected with up to 10 or 20 miracidia for 3 weeks, were exposed to copper (Cu) as CuSO4 2 hr and allowed to recover 48 hr. In general, snails ininfected with up to 5 miracidia of E. audyi were no more susceptible to Cu than noninfected snails. Snails infected with up to 10 miracidia for 3 weeks were 1.3 times more susceptible to Cu than noninfected snails. However, snails infected with up to 20 miracidia for 3 weeks were not more susceptible to Cu, possibly because infection with such a large number of parasites eliminated the most susceptible snails from the population prior to exposure to Cu.", "contents": "Effect of duration and intensity of infection with Echinostoma audyi on survival of Lymnaea rubiginosa exposed to copper sulfate. Lymnaea rubiginosa infected with 1 to 5 miracidia of Echinostoma audyi for 1, 2, 3, and 5 weeks, and snails infected with up to 10 or 20 miracidia for 3 weeks, were exposed to copper (Cu) as CuSO4 2 hr and allowed to recover 48 hr. In general, snails ininfected with up to 5 miracidia of E. audyi were no more susceptible to Cu than noninfected snails. Snails infected with up to 10 miracidia for 3 weeks were 1.3 times more susceptible to Cu than noninfected snails. However, snails infected with up to 20 miracidia for 3 weeks were not more susceptible to Cu, possibly because infection with such a large number of parasites eliminated the most susceptible snails from the population prior to exposure to Cu.", "PMID": 448599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8700", "title": "Solubilization of antigens of Fasciola hepatica which react with antibodies to Schistosoma mansoni.", "content": "Extracts of Fasciola hepatica adult worms contain antigens reactive with antisera prepared against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. These antigens are poorly solubilized when homogenized in a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution and pellet readily when subjected to high speed centrifugation. Solubilization is improved greatly by the addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate (0.03%) to the PBS. When this is done, one obtains approximately the same total amount of crude Lowry reactive material as with PBS extraction followed by high speed centrifugation but antigenic reactivity to an anti-S. mansoni antiserum increases enormously. The antigens liberated from F. hepatica SDS extraction are largely materials under 200,000 MW and over 60,000 MW.", "contents": "Solubilization of antigens of Fasciola hepatica which react with antibodies to Schistosoma mansoni. Extracts of Fasciola hepatica adult worms contain antigens reactive with antisera prepared against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. These antigens are poorly solubilized when homogenized in a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution and pellet readily when subjected to high speed centrifugation. Solubilization is improved greatly by the addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate (0.03%) to the PBS. When this is done, one obtains approximately the same total amount of crude Lowry reactive material as with PBS extraction followed by high speed centrifugation but antigenic reactivity to an anti-S. mansoni antiserum increases enormously. The antigens liberated from F. hepatica SDS extraction are largely materials under 200,000 MW and over 60,000 MW.", "PMID": 448600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8701", "title": "Hymenolepis nana: intestinal tissue phase in actively immunized mice.", "content": "We investigated the fate of the intestinal cestode Hymenolepis nana in immunized mice. Immunity was induced by infection with the parasite eggs. These immunized animals and unimmunized controls were then challenged with 50,000 H. nana eggs. The mice were killed 4 to 90 hr after challenge, and H. nana in the intestinal tissue were counted. At 4 hr after challenge the unimmunized and immunized animals had approximately equal numbers of oncospheres. By 12 hr there were fewer parasites in the immunized than in the unimmunized animals. At 90 hr, no H. nana were seen in the immunized mice, whereas in the unimmunized animals the median number of cysticercoids was more than 1,000. It appears, therefore, that in mice well immunized to H. nana by infection, challenge oncospheres can burrow into the intestinal tissue before they are killed. The reduced number of oncospheres in the immunized mice 12 hr after challenge, and the accumulation of eosinophils near individual oncospheres still present, indicate that an immune response to the parasite was taking place. Absence of a lymphocyte infiltration near any of the oncospheres suggests that the mechanism of immunity was not lymphocyte mediated; thus, the histopathology of the reaction is consistent with that of humoral immunity.", "contents": "Hymenolepis nana: intestinal tissue phase in actively immunized mice. We investigated the fate of the intestinal cestode Hymenolepis nana in immunized mice. Immunity was induced by infection with the parasite eggs. These immunized animals and unimmunized controls were then challenged with 50,000 H. nana eggs. The mice were killed 4 to 90 hr after challenge, and H. nana in the intestinal tissue were counted. At 4 hr after challenge the unimmunized and immunized animals had approximately equal numbers of oncospheres. By 12 hr there were fewer parasites in the immunized than in the unimmunized animals. At 90 hr, no H. nana were seen in the immunized mice, whereas in the unimmunized animals the median number of cysticercoids was more than 1,000. It appears, therefore, that in mice well immunized to H. nana by infection, challenge oncospheres can burrow into the intestinal tissue before they are killed. The reduced number of oncospheres in the immunized mice 12 hr after challenge, and the accumulation of eosinophils near individual oncospheres still present, indicate that an immune response to the parasite was taking place. Absence of a lymphocyte infiltration near any of the oncospheres suggests that the mechanism of immunity was not lymphocyte mediated; thus, the histopathology of the reaction is consistent with that of humoral immunity.", "PMID": 448601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8702", "title": "Initiation of development in vitro of third-stage Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.", "content": "Third-stage larvae of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis were maintained in vitro in 5 different culture systems at 25 C and 37 C, and initiation of development to the parasitic phase was evaluated at the morphological and biochemical levels. A few larvae grown in Krebs-Ringer-Tris solution at 25 C showed minimal development of the anterior region and intestinal cells. The amount of development was enhanced with an increase in medium complexity. At 25 C the greatest development was obtained in NCTC-135 : calf serum (8 : 2/v : v). Temperature elevation from 25 C to 37 C had a more significant effect on development than increasing the complexity of the culture medium. The number of L3 showing development in Krebs-Ringer-Tris at 37 C was significantly greater than the number maintained at 25 C in NCTC-135 : calf serum. Likewise, RNA biosynthesis was greatest in those larvae grown in NCTC-135 : calf serum at 37 C. These results support the idea that an elevation of temperature and certain nutritional components stimulate the transcription of that portion of the genome coding for development into the parasitic phase of the life-history.", "contents": "Initiation of development in vitro of third-stage Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Third-stage larvae of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis were maintained in vitro in 5 different culture systems at 25 C and 37 C, and initiation of development to the parasitic phase was evaluated at the morphological and biochemical levels. A few larvae grown in Krebs-Ringer-Tris solution at 25 C showed minimal development of the anterior region and intestinal cells. The amount of development was enhanced with an increase in medium complexity. At 25 C the greatest development was obtained in NCTC-135 : calf serum (8 : 2/v : v). Temperature elevation from 25 C to 37 C had a more significant effect on development than increasing the complexity of the culture medium. The number of L3 showing development in Krebs-Ringer-Tris at 37 C was significantly greater than the number maintained at 25 C in NCTC-135 : calf serum. Likewise, RNA biosynthesis was greatest in those larvae grown in NCTC-135 : calf serum at 37 C. These results support the idea that an elevation of temperature and certain nutritional components stimulate the transcription of that portion of the genome coding for development into the parasitic phase of the life-history.", "PMID": 448602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8703", "title": "Carbohydrate transport in Moniliformis dubius (Acanthocephala). III. Post-absorptive fate of fructose, mannose, and galactose.", "content": "The initial metabolism of fructose, mannose, and galactose in Moniliformis dubius (M. moniliformis; Acanthocephala) was examined following brief aerobic incubations in 14C-labeled substrate. The pattern of incorporation of radioactivity from 14C-fructose and 14C-mannose into intermediates of hexose metabolism was indistinguishable from that reported elsewhere for the initial post-absorptive metabolism of 14C-glucose under comparable conditions; these hexoses were phosphorylated rapidly following their absorption, and much of the radioactivity absorbed as mannose or fructose was recovered in the nonreducing disaccharide trehalose [alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-alpha-D-glucopyranoside]. 14C-Galactose was phosphorylated less readily than the other hexoses. More than half of the radioactivity absorbed as galactose was incorporated into disaccharide; some of the galactose-derived disaccharide had properties suggesting the presence of a galactosyl moiety. Incorporation of radioactivity from any of the hexoses into glycogen was minimal. The extensive incorporation of hexose moieties into trehalose or a trehalose-like disaccharide rather than glycogen underscores the probable importance of trehalose metabolism to carbohydrate assimilation in Moniliformis. Physiological factors which might favor trehalose biosynthesis over glycogenesis are considered.", "contents": "Carbohydrate transport in Moniliformis dubius (Acanthocephala). III. Post-absorptive fate of fructose, mannose, and galactose. The initial metabolism of fructose, mannose, and galactose in Moniliformis dubius (M. moniliformis; Acanthocephala) was examined following brief aerobic incubations in 14C-labeled substrate. The pattern of incorporation of radioactivity from 14C-fructose and 14C-mannose into intermediates of hexose metabolism was indistinguishable from that reported elsewhere for the initial post-absorptive metabolism of 14C-glucose under comparable conditions; these hexoses were phosphorylated rapidly following their absorption, and much of the radioactivity absorbed as mannose or fructose was recovered in the nonreducing disaccharide trehalose [alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-alpha-D-glucopyranoside]. 14C-Galactose was phosphorylated less readily than the other hexoses. More than half of the radioactivity absorbed as galactose was incorporated into disaccharide; some of the galactose-derived disaccharide had properties suggesting the presence of a galactosyl moiety. Incorporation of radioactivity from any of the hexoses into glycogen was minimal. The extensive incorporation of hexose moieties into trehalose or a trehalose-like disaccharide rather than glycogen underscores the probable importance of trehalose metabolism to carbohydrate assimilation in Moniliformis. Physiological factors which might favor trehalose biosynthesis over glycogenesis are considered.", "PMID": 448603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8704", "title": "Experimental life cycle of Ascaridia columbae in intravenously infected pigeons, Columba livia.", "content": "The fate and routes of migration of infective larvae of Ascaridia columbae were studied in intravenously (i.v.) infected pigeons. Larvae were able to complete a trachael migration, and arrived at the small intestine where they established a patent infection. Granulomas were observed and histopathologically described in the lungs of i.v. infected birds.", "contents": "Experimental life cycle of Ascaridia columbae in intravenously infected pigeons, Columba livia. The fate and routes of migration of infective larvae of Ascaridia columbae were studied in intravenously (i.v.) infected pigeons. Larvae were able to complete a trachael migration, and arrived at the small intestine where they established a patent infection. Granulomas were observed and histopathologically described in the lungs of i.v. infected birds.", "PMID": 448604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8705", "title": "Morphology of the advanced-stage larva of Eustrongylides wenrichi Canavan 1929, occurring encapsulated in the tissues of Amphiuma in Louisiana.", "content": "Larval nematodes identified as Eustrongylides wenrichi Canavan 1929, from cysts in the tissues of Amphiuma means tridactylum Cuvier in Louisana were redescribed. The extent of differentiation of the sex organs was found to be greater than that of 3rd-stage Dioctophyma renale, or of the infective stage of Trichinella spiralis, and comparable with the late 4th-stage larva of secernentean (phasmid) nematodes.", "contents": "Morphology of the advanced-stage larva of Eustrongylides wenrichi Canavan 1929, occurring encapsulated in the tissues of Amphiuma in Louisiana. Larval nematodes identified as Eustrongylides wenrichi Canavan 1929, from cysts in the tissues of Amphiuma means tridactylum Cuvier in Louisana were redescribed. The extent of differentiation of the sex organs was found to be greater than that of 3rd-stage Dioctophyma renale, or of the infective stage of Trichinella spiralis, and comparable with the late 4th-stage larva of secernentean (phasmid) nematodes.", "PMID": 448605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8706", "title": "Lipids of Leishmania promastigotes.", "content": "A chromatographic analysis of lipids of cultured promastigotes of Leishmania donovani, L. braziliensis, L. mexicana, L. tropica, L. enriettii, L. hertigi, L. adleri, and L. tarentolae showed that total lipids were 2--15% of dry wt, and neutral and polar lipids were 14--55% and 45--86% of total lipids. Major lipid classes were as follows: sterol ester, triacylglycerol, sterol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylcholine. Predominant fatty acids were 18:2 (n - 6) greater than 18:3 (n - 3) greater than 18:1 (n - 9) greater than 18:0 greater than 22:6 (n - 3) greater than 22:5 (n - 6) greater than 16:0 greater than 14:0 greater than 18:4 (n - 3) greater than 20:3 (n - 3). Some remarkable distributions of fatty acids among the phospholipid fractions were observed, as follows: diphosphatidylglycerol 18--33% 22:6 (n - 3); phosphatidylinositol 31--68% 18:1 (n - 9); phosphatidylcholine 13--41% 18:3 (n - 3). Alk-l-enyldiacyl glycerols, and alk-l-enylacyl and alkylacyl forms of phosphatidylethanolamine and of phosphatidylinositol were found, and their glyceryl ethers and fatty adehydes analyzed. Notable in the phosphatidylethanolamine of some leishmanias was a cyclopropane fatty acid (4--11%), identified as cis-9,10-methylene octadecanoic acid by chromatographic, and by mass and proton resonance spectrometric analyses. The comparative biochemistry of the cyclopropane fatty acid, characteristic of many prokaryotes, and of alpha-linolenic acid, characteristic of photosynthetic plants, are commented upon.", "contents": "Lipids of Leishmania promastigotes. A chromatographic analysis of lipids of cultured promastigotes of Leishmania donovani, L. braziliensis, L. mexicana, L. tropica, L. enriettii, L. hertigi, L. adleri, and L. tarentolae showed that total lipids were 2--15% of dry wt, and neutral and polar lipids were 14--55% and 45--86% of total lipids. Major lipid classes were as follows: sterol ester, triacylglycerol, sterol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylcholine. Predominant fatty acids were 18:2 (n - 6) greater than 18:3 (n - 3) greater than 18:1 (n - 9) greater than 18:0 greater than 22:6 (n - 3) greater than 22:5 (n - 6) greater than 16:0 greater than 14:0 greater than 18:4 (n - 3) greater than 20:3 (n - 3). Some remarkable distributions of fatty acids among the phospholipid fractions were observed, as follows: diphosphatidylglycerol 18--33% 22:6 (n - 3); phosphatidylinositol 31--68% 18:1 (n - 9); phosphatidylcholine 13--41% 18:3 (n - 3). Alk-l-enyldiacyl glycerols, and alk-l-enylacyl and alkylacyl forms of phosphatidylethanolamine and of phosphatidylinositol were found, and their glyceryl ethers and fatty adehydes analyzed. Notable in the phosphatidylethanolamine of some leishmanias was a cyclopropane fatty acid (4--11%), identified as cis-9,10-methylene octadecanoic acid by chromatographic, and by mass and proton resonance spectrometric analyses. The comparative biochemistry of the cyclopropane fatty acid, characteristic of many prokaryotes, and of alpha-linolenic acid, characteristic of photosynthetic plants, are commented upon.", "PMID": 448607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8707", "title": "Eimeria dispersa, E. adenoeides, and E. meleagrimitis: intestinal mucosal disruption in turkeys as seen with scanning electron microscopy.", "content": "Tissues from the digestive tract of turkeys infected with Eimeria dispersa, E. adenoeides, or E. meleagrimitis were compared with tissues from uninfected controls as seen with light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Six regions were examined--duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecal neck, cecal pouch, and large intestine. Although LM showed large numbers of E. dispersa in the epithelial cells, SEM usually showed little mucosal disruption. Occasionally the surface of duodenum and jejunum, as seen with SEM, was convoluted and disrupted. In one bird, some parasite-induced damage was found with either LM or SEM in the duodenum and jejunum of turkeys given E. adenoeides oocysts. Although LM showed parasites in the rest of the digestive tract of all E. adenoeides infected birds, SEM showed only a localized sloughing of the mucosa in the cecal pouch. The most extensive damage to the villar surface was caused by E. meleagrimitis. Infections often disrupted the villar tips, especially in the small intestine and cecal neck. Localized areas of pitting were often found on individual villi. All 3 species produced oocyst extrusion sites, especially in the ileum and the ceca.", "contents": "Eimeria dispersa, E. adenoeides, and E. meleagrimitis: intestinal mucosal disruption in turkeys as seen with scanning electron microscopy. Tissues from the digestive tract of turkeys infected with Eimeria dispersa, E. adenoeides, or E. meleagrimitis were compared with tissues from uninfected controls as seen with light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Six regions were examined--duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecal neck, cecal pouch, and large intestine. Although LM showed large numbers of E. dispersa in the epithelial cells, SEM usually showed little mucosal disruption. Occasionally the surface of duodenum and jejunum, as seen with SEM, was convoluted and disrupted. In one bird, some parasite-induced damage was found with either LM or SEM in the duodenum and jejunum of turkeys given E. adenoeides oocysts. Although LM showed parasites in the rest of the digestive tract of all E. adenoeides infected birds, SEM showed only a localized sloughing of the mucosa in the cecal pouch. The most extensive damage to the villar surface was caused by E. meleagrimitis. Infections often disrupted the villar tips, especially in the small intestine and cecal neck. Localized areas of pitting were often found on individual villi. All 3 species produced oocyst extrusion sites, especially in the ileum and the ceca.", "PMID": 448609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8708", "title": "Thin-layer chromatographic analysis of phospholipids in Echinostoma revolutum (Trematoda) adults.", "content": "Thin-layer chromatographic analyses were made of phospholipids extracted from adult Echinostoma revolutum (Trematoda) and from the nonnutrient medium in which worms were maintained. Identity of phospholipids was based on comparison with authentic lipid standards and on specific chemical detection tests. The most abundant phospholipids in the extract were phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl serine; lesser amounts of cerebrosides and lysophosphatidyl choline were detected also. Phospholipids detected in the incubation medium were essentially as described for extracts.", "contents": "Thin-layer chromatographic analysis of phospholipids in Echinostoma revolutum (Trematoda) adults. Thin-layer chromatographic analyses were made of phospholipids extracted from adult Echinostoma revolutum (Trematoda) and from the nonnutrient medium in which worms were maintained. Identity of phospholipids was based on comparison with authentic lipid standards and on specific chemical detection tests. The most abundant phospholipids in the extract were phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl serine; lesser amounts of cerebrosides and lysophosphatidyl choline were detected also. Phospholipids detected in the incubation medium were essentially as described for extracts.", "PMID": 448610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8709", "title": "Two new species of coccidia, Eimeria leucuri and E. oreoecetes (Protozoa: Eimeriidae), in grouse from Colorado.", "content": "Eimeria leucuri is described from white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus), and E. oreoecetes from white-tailed ptarmigan and blue grouse (Dendragapus obscurus) from Colorado. Oocysts of E. leucuri are ellipsoidal, 26.6 by 17.7 micron, each bearing a micropyle, micropyle cap, up to 4 polar granules, but no oocyst residuum. The lemon-shaped sporocysts are 15.4 by 6.7 micron, and have Stieda bodies and large amounts of sporocyst residuum. The sporocyst contents are enclosed in a membrane. Oocysts of E. oreoecetes are subspherical, 26.0 by 22.6 micron, and have up to 4 polar granules. The lemon-shaped sporocysts are 14.6 by 8.8 micron, and have both Stieda bodies and substiedal bodies and a large amount of sporocyst residuum. The sporocyst contents are enclosed in a membrane. These are the first coccidia to be described from these tetraonids.", "contents": "Two new species of coccidia, Eimeria leucuri and E. oreoecetes (Protozoa: Eimeriidae), in grouse from Colorado. Eimeria leucuri is described from white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus), and E. oreoecetes from white-tailed ptarmigan and blue grouse (Dendragapus obscurus) from Colorado. Oocysts of E. leucuri are ellipsoidal, 26.6 by 17.7 micron, each bearing a micropyle, micropyle cap, up to 4 polar granules, but no oocyst residuum. The lemon-shaped sporocysts are 15.4 by 6.7 micron, and have Stieda bodies and large amounts of sporocyst residuum. The sporocyst contents are enclosed in a membrane. Oocysts of E. oreoecetes are subspherical, 26.0 by 22.6 micron, and have up to 4 polar granules. The lemon-shaped sporocysts are 14.6 by 8.8 micron, and have both Stieda bodies and substiedal bodies and a large amount of sporocyst residuum. The sporocyst contents are enclosed in a membrane. These are the first coccidia to be described from these tetraonids.", "PMID": 448611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8710", "title": "Leishmania herreri sp. n. from sloths and sandflies of Costa Rica.", "content": "Leishmania herreri sp. n. is described after isolation in pure culture from blood, viscera and skin of two-toed (Choloepus hoffmanni) and three-toed (Bradypus griseus) sloths from Costa Rica. Also, it was isolated from the following sandflies: Lutzomyia trapidoi, L. ylephiletor and L. shannoni. The amastigote forms were not seen in the final hosts but they were obtained in tissue culture at 33 C. Both promastigotes and amastigotes failed to infect hamsters. The new parasite is isolated frequently in culture, mixed with other hemoflagellates such as L. braziliensis, Endotrypanum sp. and Trypanosoma rangeli.", "contents": "Leishmania herreri sp. n. from sloths and sandflies of Costa Rica. Leishmania herreri sp. n. is described after isolation in pure culture from blood, viscera and skin of two-toed (Choloepus hoffmanni) and three-toed (Bradypus griseus) sloths from Costa Rica. Also, it was isolated from the following sandflies: Lutzomyia trapidoi, L. ylephiletor and L. shannoni. The amastigote forms were not seen in the final hosts but they were obtained in tissue culture at 33 C. Both promastigotes and amastigotes failed to infect hamsters. The new parasite is isolated frequently in culture, mixed with other hemoflagellates such as L. braziliensis, Endotrypanum sp. and Trypanosoma rangeli.", "PMID": 448612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8711", "title": "Apteragia pursglovei sp. n. (Trichostrongyloidea: trichostrongylidae) from the white-tailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus.", "content": "Two species of Apteragia were found in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from 152 counties in 13 southeastern states. Specimens previously reported as Skrjabinagia odocoilei were reidentified as belonging to 2 similar species of the genus Apteragia, A. odocoilei, and A. pursglovei sp. n. Apteragia pursglovei sp. n. is differentiated primarily by the length, conformation, and degree of sclerotization of the spicules. Of the 824 deer, A. odocoilei occurred in 76.5%, A. pursglovei in 13.8%, both species in 5.0%, and neither in 4.7%. Reassessment of distribution data revealed that only A. odocoilei was present in deer from 99 counties, only A. pursglovei in deer from 25 counties, and both species in deer from 28 counties. Both A. odocoilei and A. pursglovei were found in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Apteragia odocoilei also occurred in Maryland, Tennessee, West Virginia, Texas, Oklahoma, New Jersey, and the Virgin Islands.", "contents": "Apteragia pursglovei sp. n. (Trichostrongyloidea: trichostrongylidae) from the white-tailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus. Two species of Apteragia were found in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from 152 counties in 13 southeastern states. Specimens previously reported as Skrjabinagia odocoilei were reidentified as belonging to 2 similar species of the genus Apteragia, A. odocoilei, and A. pursglovei sp. n. Apteragia pursglovei sp. n. is differentiated primarily by the length, conformation, and degree of sclerotization of the spicules. Of the 824 deer, A. odocoilei occurred in 76.5%, A. pursglovei in 13.8%, both species in 5.0%, and neither in 4.7%. Reassessment of distribution data revealed that only A. odocoilei was present in deer from 99 counties, only A. pursglovei in deer from 25 counties, and both species in deer from 28 counties. Both A. odocoilei and A. pursglovei were found in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Apteragia odocoilei also occurred in Maryland, Tennessee, West Virginia, Texas, Oklahoma, New Jersey, and the Virgin Islands.", "PMID": 448613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8712", "title": "Effects of some factors on the susceptibility of Peromyscus leucopus to infestation by larvae of cuterebra fontinella (Diptera: Cuterebridae).", "content": "Two levels of 3 factors, (1) host age, (2) host dietary state in regard to vitamin A, and (3) previous infestation history, were tested individually and in combinations for their effects on the susceptibility of Peromyscus leucopus to infestation by larvae of the rodent bot fly, Cuterebra fontinella. Previous infestation was the only significant single factor. Previously uninfested (Pu) mice usually were more susceptible to infestation than previously infested (Pi) mice. Interactions of age and state of vitamin A had the following effects: 1) Young Pu mice that had been denied vitamin A were much less susceptible to infestation than equivalent mice that had been fed diets containing the vitamin; and 2) when Pu mice were deficient in vitamin A, old mice were more susceptible than young mice but when Pu mice were not deficient in the vitamin, young mice were more susceptible. These findings may have significance for natural infestations of P. leucopus.", "contents": "Effects of some factors on the susceptibility of Peromyscus leucopus to infestation by larvae of cuterebra fontinella (Diptera: Cuterebridae). Two levels of 3 factors, (1) host age, (2) host dietary state in regard to vitamin A, and (3) previous infestation history, were tested individually and in combinations for their effects on the susceptibility of Peromyscus leucopus to infestation by larvae of the rodent bot fly, Cuterebra fontinella. Previous infestation was the only significant single factor. Previously uninfested (Pu) mice usually were more susceptible to infestation than previously infested (Pi) mice. Interactions of age and state of vitamin A had the following effects: 1) Young Pu mice that had been denied vitamin A were much less susceptible to infestation than equivalent mice that had been fed diets containing the vitamin; and 2) when Pu mice were deficient in vitamin A, old mice were more susceptible than young mice but when Pu mice were not deficient in the vitamin, young mice were more susceptible. These findings may have significance for natural infestations of P. leucopus.", "PMID": 448615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8713", "title": "The limiting effect of host availability for the immature stages on population growth in economically important ixodid ticks.", "content": "Of 12 southern African species of ixodid ticks in which the adults are commonly parasitc on cattle, only 4 exhibited massive increases in abundance in the absence of dipping. It is suggested that host availability for the immature stages is the major factor limiting population growth in a given environment. The species showing large increases in abundance are those in which the immature stages are predominantly parasitic on cattle, whereas the species showing small to moderate increases in abundance are those in which the immature stages are parasitic on specific nonungulate hosts.", "contents": "The limiting effect of host availability for the immature stages on population growth in economically important ixodid ticks. Of 12 southern African species of ixodid ticks in which the adults are commonly parasitc on cattle, only 4 exhibited massive increases in abundance in the absence of dipping. It is suggested that host availability for the immature stages is the major factor limiting population growth in a given environment. The species showing large increases in abundance are those in which the immature stages are predominantly parasitic on cattle, whereas the species showing small to moderate increases in abundance are those in which the immature stages are parasitic on specific nonungulate hosts.", "PMID": 448614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8714", "title": "Effects of exogenous changes in heart rate on facilitation of thought and resistance to persuasion.", "content": "Two experiments were conducted to examine the effects of an accelerated heart rate on information processing and resistance to persuasion. Experiment 1 addressed the effects on cognitive performance of manipulating heart rate exogenously for brief periods of time. Fourteen subjects wearing implanted demand-type cardiac pacemakers performed reading comprehension and sentence generation tasks while their heart rate was either accelerated or not accelerated. Results revealed that performance was better when heart rate was accelerated than when it was not accelerated. Experiment 2 addressed the effects on counterargumentation and resistance to persuasion of manipulating heart rate using the cardiac-pacing technique employed in Experiment 1. Subjects read highly involving counterattitudinal communications while their heart rate was either ostensibly or actually accelerated. Accelerated heart rate resulted in the generation of more total thoughts and counterarguments than did basal heart rate; resistance to persuasion was related significantly to the number of counterarguments generated. The methodology used provides a means by which social psychologists can study the effects on social processes of actual but unperceived changes in physiological processes.", "contents": "Effects of exogenous changes in heart rate on facilitation of thought and resistance to persuasion. Two experiments were conducted to examine the effects of an accelerated heart rate on information processing and resistance to persuasion. Experiment 1 addressed the effects on cognitive performance of manipulating heart rate exogenously for brief periods of time. Fourteen subjects wearing implanted demand-type cardiac pacemakers performed reading comprehension and sentence generation tasks while their heart rate was either accelerated or not accelerated. Results revealed that performance was better when heart rate was accelerated than when it was not accelerated. Experiment 2 addressed the effects on counterargumentation and resistance to persuasion of manipulating heart rate using the cardiac-pacing technique employed in Experiment 1. Subjects read highly involving counterattitudinal communications while their heart rate was either ostensibly or actually accelerated. Accelerated heart rate resulted in the generation of more total thoughts and counterarguments than did basal heart rate; resistance to persuasion was related significantly to the number of counterarguments generated. The methodology used provides a means by which social psychologists can study the effects on social processes of actual but unperceived changes in physiological processes.", "PMID": 448631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8715", "title": "Effects of paced respiration and expectations on physiological and psychological responses to threat.", "content": "While waiting to receive electric shocks, 105 males either (a) regulated their breathing at one half the normal rate, (b) regulated their breathing at the normal rate, or (c) did not regulate their breathing rate. Half of the subjects in each breathing condition were told that their breathing task would aid them in relaxing, whereas the other half were not given that expectation. Subjects in a no threat condition were not threatened with shocks, did not regulate their breathing, and were not provided with expectations. The results indicated that slowing respiration rate reduced physiological arousal as measured by skin resistance and finger pulse volume (but not heart rate) and reduced self-reports of anxiety. Expectations did not influence arousal. These data provide evidence for the effectiveness of paced respiration as a coping strategy, and they resolve the conflicting findings of previous investigations.", "contents": "Effects of paced respiration and expectations on physiological and psychological responses to threat. While waiting to receive electric shocks, 105 males either (a) regulated their breathing at one half the normal rate, (b) regulated their breathing at the normal rate, or (c) did not regulate their breathing rate. Half of the subjects in each breathing condition were told that their breathing task would aid them in relaxing, whereas the other half were not given that expectation. Subjects in a no threat condition were not threatened with shocks, did not regulate their breathing, and were not provided with expectations. The results indicated that slowing respiration rate reduced physiological arousal as measured by skin resistance and finger pulse volume (but not heart rate) and reduced self-reports of anxiety. Expectations did not influence arousal. These data provide evidence for the effectiveness of paced respiration as a coping strategy, and they resolve the conflicting findings of previous investigations.", "PMID": 448632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8716", "title": "Blood donation and the foot-in-the-door technique: a limiting case.", "content": "Three experiments testing the effectiveness of the foot-in-the-door technique for recruiting blood donors consistently failed to demonstrate that this procedure influences either verbal or behavioral compliance, suggesting that the generality of the foot-in-the-door phenomenon is limited. Experiment 1 attempted to demonstrate that an earlier failure of this technique was due to poor operationalization rather than to the magnitude of the critical request or to the invalidity of the phenomenon, but it failed to do so. Experiment 2, designed to more closely resemble other foot-in-the-door studies by using telephone contacts and an initial request for persons to answer questions, was conducted to examine other possible explanations for the two previous failures. This experiment also failed to show any foot-in-the-door effect. Experiment 3 was a conceptual replication of Experiment 2 but used personal contacts. One apparent foot-in-the-door effect emerged in this case, but it was more likely due to a factor other than the experimental treatment. It is concluded that although the foot-in-the-door procedure may indeed influence verbal compliance with requests for minimal forms of aid, it probably will not significantly affect people's willingness to comply with more substantial requests involving behaviors that are psychologically costly to perform.", "contents": "Blood donation and the foot-in-the-door technique: a limiting case. Three experiments testing the effectiveness of the foot-in-the-door technique for recruiting blood donors consistently failed to demonstrate that this procedure influences either verbal or behavioral compliance, suggesting that the generality of the foot-in-the-door phenomenon is limited. Experiment 1 attempted to demonstrate that an earlier failure of this technique was due to poor operationalization rather than to the magnitude of the critical request or to the invalidity of the phenomenon, but it failed to do so. Experiment 2, designed to more closely resemble other foot-in-the-door studies by using telephone contacts and an initial request for persons to answer questions, was conducted to examine other possible explanations for the two previous failures. This experiment also failed to show any foot-in-the-door effect. Experiment 3 was a conceptual replication of Experiment 2 but used personal contacts. One apparent foot-in-the-door effect emerged in this case, but it was more likely due to a factor other than the experimental treatment. It is concluded that although the foot-in-the-door procedure may indeed influence verbal compliance with requests for minimal forms of aid, it probably will not significantly affect people's willingness to comply with more substantial requests involving behaviors that are psychologically costly to perform.", "PMID": 448633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8717", "title": "Disruptive effects of disconfirmed expectancies about crowding.", "content": "The experiment utilized a 2 (high vs. low room density) X 2 (forewarning of a crowded room vs. no forewarning) X 2 (simple vs. complex task) design to examine the effects of anticipation of crowding on task performance. More tasks were attempted and efficiency was higher when expectancies about the crowd were confirmed. Subjects not told to anticipate a crowd who actually worked under high density and subjects warned about a crowd that did not materialize performed most poorly. These differences were largest for the complex task. Baum and Greenberg's results were replicated with the performance data. Perceptions of the experimental room also differed as a function of anticipation, but failure to obtain a Crowding X Anticipation interaction did not support their hypothesis that anticipating a crowd induces identical perceptions to those obtained under actual crowding. The results are discussed in terms of disconfirmed expectancies being disruptive of performance, particularly complex task performance.", "contents": "Disruptive effects of disconfirmed expectancies about crowding. The experiment utilized a 2 (high vs. low room density) X 2 (forewarning of a crowded room vs. no forewarning) X 2 (simple vs. complex task) design to examine the effects of anticipation of crowding on task performance. More tasks were attempted and efficiency was higher when expectancies about the crowd were confirmed. Subjects not told to anticipate a crowd who actually worked under high density and subjects warned about a crowd that did not materialize performed most poorly. These differences were largest for the complex task. Baum and Greenberg's results were replicated with the performance data. Perceptions of the experimental room also differed as a function of anticipation, but failure to obtain a Crowding X Anticipation interaction did not support their hypothesis that anticipating a crowd induces identical perceptions to those obtained under actual crowding. The results are discussed in terms of disconfirmed expectancies being disruptive of performance, particularly complex task performance.", "PMID": 448635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8718", "title": "Effects of preparatory information about sensations, threat of pain, and attention on cold pressor distress.", "content": "Pain experience is conceptualized as a combination of stimulus sensations (e.g., aching) and emotional distress. In Experiment 1, less distress was reported to cold pressor stimulation by subjects first told about stimulus sensations than by subjects who were uninformed or were told about symptoms of bodily arousal (e.g., tension). Adding a pain warning to sensation information blocked distress reduction, presumably by eliciting an emotional interpretation of the stimulus. In Experiment 2, subjects attending only to hand sensations reported less distress than subjects attending to their bodies. This decrease in the power of the stimulus to provoke emotion is presumably mediated by a schema of hand sensations formed by attention. In Experiment 3, subjects attending to hand sensations early in the immersion and distracting themselves later reported the same low levels of distress as did subjects who attended to hand sensations throughout. Subjects distracted throughout and subjects attending to hand sensations later showed no distress reduction. Therefore, stimulus schematization must precede distress reduction. Implications for distress control are discussed.", "contents": "Effects of preparatory information about sensations, threat of pain, and attention on cold pressor distress. Pain experience is conceptualized as a combination of stimulus sensations (e.g., aching) and emotional distress. In Experiment 1, less distress was reported to cold pressor stimulation by subjects first told about stimulus sensations than by subjects who were uninformed or were told about symptoms of bodily arousal (e.g., tension). Adding a pain warning to sensation information blocked distress reduction, presumably by eliciting an emotional interpretation of the stimulus. In Experiment 2, subjects attending only to hand sensations reported less distress than subjects attending to their bodies. This decrease in the power of the stimulus to provoke emotion is presumably mediated by a schema of hand sensations formed by attention. In Experiment 3, subjects attending to hand sensations early in the immersion and distracting themselves later reported the same low levels of distress as did subjects who attended to hand sensations throughout. Subjects distracted throughout and subjects attending to hand sensations later showed no distress reduction. Therefore, stimulus schematization must precede distress reduction. Implications for distress control are discussed.", "PMID": 448634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8719", "title": "Blockade by saralasin of adrenergic potentiation induced by renin-angiotensin system.", "content": "Participation of the renin-angiotensin system in the potentiation of responses to adrenergic nerve stimulation in the pump-perfused dog paw was studied during suprarenal aortic constriction. Vasoconstrictor responses in the paw were elicited by norepinephrine injected intra-arterially and by sympathetic nerve stimulation in a control session and during suprarenal aortic constriction (cephalad to the origin of one or two renal arteries). Aortic constriction decreased renal blood flow by approximately 50% and increased systemic blood pressure and plasma renin activity. The vasoconstrictor responses to norepinephrine and nerve stimulation were not significantly affected when the constriction was cephalad to only one renal artery, but there was a 31% increase in the response to stimulation at 5 Hz during aortic constriction above two renal arteries. There was an approximate 2-fold greater increase in plasma renin activity during the latter than in the former case. Saralasin administered intra-arterially to the paw reversed the adrenergic potentiating effect of aortic constriction. These results indicate that when the renin-angiotensin system is activated by restricting renal blood flow, sufficient circulating endogenous angiotensin is formed to cause a moderate adrenergic potentiating effect in the canine cutaneous circulation of the paw.", "contents": "Blockade by saralasin of adrenergic potentiation induced by renin-angiotensin system. Participation of the renin-angiotensin system in the potentiation of responses to adrenergic nerve stimulation in the pump-perfused dog paw was studied during suprarenal aortic constriction. Vasoconstrictor responses in the paw were elicited by norepinephrine injected intra-arterially and by sympathetic nerve stimulation in a control session and during suprarenal aortic constriction (cephalad to the origin of one or two renal arteries). Aortic constriction decreased renal blood flow by approximately 50% and increased systemic blood pressure and plasma renin activity. The vasoconstrictor responses to norepinephrine and nerve stimulation were not significantly affected when the constriction was cephalad to only one renal artery, but there was a 31% increase in the response to stimulation at 5 Hz during aortic constriction above two renal arteries. There was an approximate 2-fold greater increase in plasma renin activity during the latter than in the former case. Saralasin administered intra-arterially to the paw reversed the adrenergic potentiating effect of aortic constriction. These results indicate that when the renin-angiotensin system is activated by restricting renal blood flow, sufficient circulating endogenous angiotensin is formed to cause a moderate adrenergic potentiating effect in the canine cutaneous circulation of the paw.", "PMID": 448637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8720", "title": "Arrest of cultured cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle by indomethacin.", "content": "Indomethacin reversibly inhibited growth of rat hepatoma cells (HTC) and human diploid fibroblasts in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Cytophotometric measurements showed that greater than 90% of cells incubated for 48 hr with indomethacin had a DNA content that corresponded to the G1 state. Synchronous growth of both the HTC and fibroblast cultures occurred after removal of drug as indicated by the sequence of changes in [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA, cellular DNA content, mitotic index and cell number. Autoradiographs of HTC cell cultures incubated with [3H]thymidine indicated that all (98%) of the cells engaged in DNA synthesis following the removal of indomethacin. Since viability of the cells was not impaired, even by prolonged exposure to indomethacin, this drug provides a means of synchronizing growth. Suppression of cell proliferation could contribute to the therapeutic and/or toxic effects of indomethacin in vivo.", "contents": "Arrest of cultured cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle by indomethacin. Indomethacin reversibly inhibited growth of rat hepatoma cells (HTC) and human diploid fibroblasts in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Cytophotometric measurements showed that greater than 90% of cells incubated for 48 hr with indomethacin had a DNA content that corresponded to the G1 state. Synchronous growth of both the HTC and fibroblast cultures occurred after removal of drug as indicated by the sequence of changes in [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA, cellular DNA content, mitotic index and cell number. Autoradiographs of HTC cell cultures incubated with [3H]thymidine indicated that all (98%) of the cells engaged in DNA synthesis following the removal of indomethacin. Since viability of the cells was not impaired, even by prolonged exposure to indomethacin, this drug provides a means of synchronizing growth. Suppression of cell proliferation could contribute to the therapeutic and/or toxic effects of indomethacin in vivo.", "PMID": 448638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8721", "title": "Isolation of the sino-atrial node with veratramine.", "content": "The effects of veratramine on transmembrane potentials of the isolated right atrial preparation of the cat were examined. Veratramine slowed spontaneous rate and precipitated a characteristic rhythm consisting of alternating periods of asystole and normal atrial rhythm (periodic rhythm). After large doses or continued exposure to low doses of veratramine electrical and mechanical activity of the atria ceased; subsequently activity resumed only in a discrete area within which action potentials were consistent with pacemaker characteristics. This discrete pacemaker area, easily located by sight, greatly facilitates study of the sino-atrial node. A gradation of veratramine effect in cells lying between the quiescent common atrial cells and the active pacemaker suggests the existence of \"transitional\" cells with electrophysiological responses intermediate between common atrial cells and pacemaker cells.", "contents": "Isolation of the sino-atrial node with veratramine. The effects of veratramine on transmembrane potentials of the isolated right atrial preparation of the cat were examined. Veratramine slowed spontaneous rate and precipitated a characteristic rhythm consisting of alternating periods of asystole and normal atrial rhythm (periodic rhythm). After large doses or continued exposure to low doses of veratramine electrical and mechanical activity of the atria ceased; subsequently activity resumed only in a discrete area within which action potentials were consistent with pacemaker characteristics. This discrete pacemaker area, easily located by sight, greatly facilitates study of the sino-atrial node. A gradation of veratramine effect in cells lying between the quiescent common atrial cells and the active pacemaker suggests the existence of \"transitional\" cells with electrophysiological responses intermediate between common atrial cells and pacemaker cells.", "PMID": 448639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8722", "title": "Pharmacological evaluation of new calcium antagonists: 2-substituted 3-dimethylamino-5,6-methylenedioxyindenes. Effects on isolated hearts and coronary vessels.", "content": "The 2-n-propyl and 2-n-butyl aminoindene hydrochlorides were previously reported to interfere with excitation-contraction coupling in uterine and intestinal smooth muscle, and with stimulus-secretion coupling in the adrenal medulla, by interfering with the action of calcium at an intracellular site. The present investigation was designed to apply this knowledge to the potential coronary and cardiac effects of such a pharmacological action. The 2-n-propyl and 2-n-butyl aminoindenes (5 X 10(-6)-10(-4) M) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of potassium-contracted strips of bovine extramural coronary vessels, which was reversible upon elevation of the calcium concentration in the medium. In the nonstimulated isolated perfused rabbit heart, the 2-n-propyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) M) and the 2-n-butyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) and 10(-4) M) increased coronary flow without affecting cardiac chronotropic activity. However, the 2-n-propyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) and 10(-4)M) and the 2-n-butyl aminoindene (10(-4) M) produced a negative inotropic action in this preparation. The combination of coronary dilation and decreased force of cardiac contraction may represent desirable properties for drugs useful in the treatment of ischemic heart disease.", "contents": "Pharmacological evaluation of new calcium antagonists: 2-substituted 3-dimethylamino-5,6-methylenedioxyindenes. Effects on isolated hearts and coronary vessels. The 2-n-propyl and 2-n-butyl aminoindene hydrochlorides were previously reported to interfere with excitation-contraction coupling in uterine and intestinal smooth muscle, and with stimulus-secretion coupling in the adrenal medulla, by interfering with the action of calcium at an intracellular site. The present investigation was designed to apply this knowledge to the potential coronary and cardiac effects of such a pharmacological action. The 2-n-propyl and 2-n-butyl aminoindenes (5 X 10(-6)-10(-4) M) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of potassium-contracted strips of bovine extramural coronary vessels, which was reversible upon elevation of the calcium concentration in the medium. In the nonstimulated isolated perfused rabbit heart, the 2-n-propyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) M) and the 2-n-butyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) and 10(-4) M) increased coronary flow without affecting cardiac chronotropic activity. However, the 2-n-propyl aminoindene (3 X 10(-5) and 10(-4)M) and the 2-n-butyl aminoindene (10(-4) M) produced a negative inotropic action in this preparation. The combination of coronary dilation and decreased force of cardiac contraction may represent desirable properties for drugs useful in the treatment of ischemic heart disease.", "PMID": 448641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8723", "title": "Characteristics of hepatic excretory function during development.", "content": "The purpose of this investigation was to characterize the development of hepatic excretory function in rats. Cumulative (40 min) intestinal ouabain content was lower and plasma ouabain concentrations were higher in 15-day-old rats than in 21-, 25-, 35- and 45-day-old animals and reached adult levels when rats were 35 days old. Impaired transport of ouabain in rat neonates correlated to low initial ouabain concentration in liver, which suggested that the inability of young rats to accumulate ouabain in liver may be the most important determinant for functional insufficiency. Bile duct ligation and bile salt infusion, treatments that primarily depress and enhance (respectively) excretion of sulfobromophthalein from liver into bile, markedly altered the disappearance of sulfobromophthalein from plasma of adult rats but did not appreciably affect sulfobromophthalein disappearance from blood of 15-day-old rats. The effect of bile duct ligation on ouabain transport in 15-day-old rats was also not as dramatic as the effect produced in adult rats. Hepatic uptake is rapid in adult rats and overall excretion is limited by a slower rate of transport from liver into bile. The lower rate of uptake in 15-day-old rats may limit overall transport function in young animals.", "contents": "Characteristics of hepatic excretory function during development. The purpose of this investigation was to characterize the development of hepatic excretory function in rats. Cumulative (40 min) intestinal ouabain content was lower and plasma ouabain concentrations were higher in 15-day-old rats than in 21-, 25-, 35- and 45-day-old animals and reached adult levels when rats were 35 days old. Impaired transport of ouabain in rat neonates correlated to low initial ouabain concentration in liver, which suggested that the inability of young rats to accumulate ouabain in liver may be the most important determinant for functional insufficiency. Bile duct ligation and bile salt infusion, treatments that primarily depress and enhance (respectively) excretion of sulfobromophthalein from liver into bile, markedly altered the disappearance of sulfobromophthalein from plasma of adult rats but did not appreciably affect sulfobromophthalein disappearance from blood of 15-day-old rats. The effect of bile duct ligation on ouabain transport in 15-day-old rats was also not as dramatic as the effect produced in adult rats. Hepatic uptake is rapid in adult rats and overall excretion is limited by a slower rate of transport from liver into bile. The lower rate of uptake in 15-day-old rats may limit overall transport function in young animals.", "PMID": 448643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8724", "title": "Ethanol-induced spontaneous norepinephrine release from the rat vas deferens.", "content": "Acute ethanol exposure increases norepinephrine (NE) turnover both centrally and peripherally. One of the mechanisms by which ethanol could increase NE turnover is by increasing spontaneous NE release. The effect of ethanol on spontaneous NE release was investigated using tritium release from l-[3H]NE-labeled vasa deferentia as an index of NE release. Ethanol, 65 mM, increased spontaneous tritium release by 8% and pargyline, 100 mg/kg b.wt., pretreatment increased the ethanol effect by 63%. Ethanol alone (22 mM) had no effect on tritium release; however, with pargyline pretreatment tritium release increased by 13%. Combined reserpine, 5 mg/kg, and pargyline, 100 mg/kg, abolished these ethanol effects. Preincubation with tyramine, 1.8 microM, and omitting calcium from Krebs-bicarbonate buffer also abolished the ethanol effect. Butanol and propanol were more potent and methanol less potent than ethanol in increasing spontaneous tritium release. The mechanism consistent with all the above observations is that ethanol increases spontaneous exocytosis due to a nonspecific effect on presynaptic and vesicular membranes.", "contents": "Ethanol-induced spontaneous norepinephrine release from the rat vas deferens. Acute ethanol exposure increases norepinephrine (NE) turnover both centrally and peripherally. One of the mechanisms by which ethanol could increase NE turnover is by increasing spontaneous NE release. The effect of ethanol on spontaneous NE release was investigated using tritium release from l-[3H]NE-labeled vasa deferentia as an index of NE release. Ethanol, 65 mM, increased spontaneous tritium release by 8% and pargyline, 100 mg/kg b.wt., pretreatment increased the ethanol effect by 63%. Ethanol alone (22 mM) had no effect on tritium release; however, with pargyline pretreatment tritium release increased by 13%. Combined reserpine, 5 mg/kg, and pargyline, 100 mg/kg, abolished these ethanol effects. Preincubation with tyramine, 1.8 microM, and omitting calcium from Krebs-bicarbonate buffer also abolished the ethanol effect. Butanol and propanol were more potent and methanol less potent than ethanol in increasing spontaneous tritium release. The mechanism consistent with all the above observations is that ethanol increases spontaneous exocytosis due to a nonspecific effect on presynaptic and vesicular membranes.", "PMID": 448644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8725", "title": "A model of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death: cantharidin-induced toxic cardiomyopathy.", "content": "Toxic cardiomyopathy may result in fatal arrhythmias. To develop a model to study ventricular fibrillation and asystole, we investigated the effect of cantharidin in the production of cardiac arrhythmias and myocardial damage. Conscious albino rabbits, weighing between 1.8 to 2.8 kg received an intravenous bolus injection of cantharidin ranging from 0.6 to 1.9 mg/kg or a control injection of solvent. The electrocardiogram was continuously monitored on tape before and after injection for extended periods of time. Dose-related effects were observed with the following: 1) presence, magnitude and duration of ST depression after injection; 2) occurrence of fatal arrhythmias; 3) survival time (high doses were usually fatal within 3 hr); and 4) electron microscopic evidence of mitochondrial swelling, intramitochondrial granules and myofibrillar degeneration. The most common arrhythmias associated with the high doses of cantharidin were frequent ventricular ectopics, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation or asytole. The arrhythmias could not be explained by alterations in blood pressure, electrolytes or blood gases. These findings show the cardiotoxic properties of cantharidin and its ability to produce fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Thus, it may serve as a model to study sudden death and the efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs.", "contents": "A model of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death: cantharidin-induced toxic cardiomyopathy. Toxic cardiomyopathy may result in fatal arrhythmias. To develop a model to study ventricular fibrillation and asystole, we investigated the effect of cantharidin in the production of cardiac arrhythmias and myocardial damage. Conscious albino rabbits, weighing between 1.8 to 2.8 kg received an intravenous bolus injection of cantharidin ranging from 0.6 to 1.9 mg/kg or a control injection of solvent. The electrocardiogram was continuously monitored on tape before and after injection for extended periods of time. Dose-related effects were observed with the following: 1) presence, magnitude and duration of ST depression after injection; 2) occurrence of fatal arrhythmias; 3) survival time (high doses were usually fatal within 3 hr); and 4) electron microscopic evidence of mitochondrial swelling, intramitochondrial granules and myofibrillar degeneration. The most common arrhythmias associated with the high doses of cantharidin were frequent ventricular ectopics, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation or asytole. The arrhythmias could not be explained by alterations in blood pressure, electrolytes or blood gases. These findings show the cardiotoxic properties of cantharidin and its ability to produce fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Thus, it may serve as a model to study sudden death and the efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs.", "PMID": 448646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8726", "title": "A new platelet aggregation inhibitor which possesses hypolipemic and uricosuric properties, 2-[3-(2-thiazolylthio)phenyl]propionic acid (TPA).", "content": "In vitro, 2-[3-(2-thiazolylthio)phenyl]propionic acid (TPA) at plasma concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 1.0 microgram/ml prevents aggregation of human platelets induced by various aggregating agents. Oral administration of TPA to guinea pigs inhibits platelet aggregation; the estimated dose to reduce aggregation by 50% is 0.3 mg/kg. TPA protects rabbits against arachidonate-induced thromboembolic death (50% protection at 0.79 mg/kg i.p.). TPA is a potent hypotriglyceridemic agent in rats when present in the diet in concentrations as low as 0.003%. In chimpanzees, TPA is uricosuric at oral doses of 0.625 and 2.5 mg/kg. This rare combination of pharmacological properties suggests that TPA is a potentially useful antithrombotic agent.", "contents": "A new platelet aggregation inhibitor which possesses hypolipemic and uricosuric properties, 2-[3-(2-thiazolylthio)phenyl]propionic acid (TPA). In vitro, 2-[3-(2-thiazolylthio)phenyl]propionic acid (TPA) at plasma concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 1.0 microgram/ml prevents aggregation of human platelets induced by various aggregating agents. Oral administration of TPA to guinea pigs inhibits platelet aggregation; the estimated dose to reduce aggregation by 50% is 0.3 mg/kg. TPA protects rabbits against arachidonate-induced thromboembolic death (50% protection at 0.79 mg/kg i.p.). TPA is a potent hypotriglyceridemic agent in rats when present in the diet in concentrations as low as 0.003%. In chimpanzees, TPA is uricosuric at oral doses of 0.625 and 2.5 mg/kg. This rare combination of pharmacological properties suggests that TPA is a potentially useful antithrombotic agent.", "PMID": 448645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8727", "title": "Variation in contractile response characteristics of rabbit aorta strips with surface of drug entry.", "content": "Contractile responses of rabbit aorta strips to norepinephrine in the presence of cocaine, histamine and serotonin entering through the intima have been compared with those when these drugs enter via the adventitia. The responses to entry through the inner compared with the outer surface occur after a shorter latency, rise at a greater initial velocity and reach a high steady state. Differences persist after removal of the tunica adventitia. Responses of strips to intimal entry appear identical to those of the intact strip. These results suggest an asymmetry of vascular smooth muscle cell characteristics across the thickness of the tunica media of the rabbit thoracic aorta.", "contents": "Variation in contractile response characteristics of rabbit aorta strips with surface of drug entry. Contractile responses of rabbit aorta strips to norepinephrine in the presence of cocaine, histamine and serotonin entering through the intima have been compared with those when these drugs enter via the adventitia. The responses to entry through the inner compared with the outer surface occur after a shorter latency, rise at a greater initial velocity and reach a high steady state. Differences persist after removal of the tunica adventitia. Responses of strips to intimal entry appear identical to those of the intact strip. These results suggest an asymmetry of vascular smooth muscle cell characteristics across the thickness of the tunica media of the rabbit thoracic aorta.", "PMID": 448647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8728", "title": "Interaction of lidocaine and calcium on the electrical characteristics of rabbit atria.", "content": "The interactions of lidocaine (1-5 X 10(-5) M) and calcium ions (1.25-5.0 mM) on electrical characteristics of atrial potentials were determined with standard microelectrode techniques with major reference to the maximum rate of rise of the action potential (Vmax of AP), the time constant of recovery of the rapid sodium carrier (gamma) and repetitive firing due to early extra stimuli (arrhythmia). Lowering Ca caused depolarization and decreased Vmax and gamma; high Ca caused changes in the opposite direction. The relation of gamma to membrane potential was downward concave when membrane potential was changed by Ca but upward concave when equivalent changes in membrane potential were induced by changing the external potassium concentration. Lidocaine (1 X 10(-5) M) had no significant effect at 2.5 mM Ca but significantly decreased the overshoot and Vmax of AP, increased gamma and effective refractory period and was antiarrhythmic at 1.25 mM Ca. These changes were closely similar to the effects of lidocaine (5 X 10(-5) M) at 2.5 mM Ca. The effects of this high concentration were decreased when Ca was changed to 5.0 mM. The effect of lidocaine most clearly predictive of efficacy for the type of arrhythmia was that on Vmax, with changes in gamma in particular not being related to antiarrhythmic activity.", "contents": "Interaction of lidocaine and calcium on the electrical characteristics of rabbit atria. The interactions of lidocaine (1-5 X 10(-5) M) and calcium ions (1.25-5.0 mM) on electrical characteristics of atrial potentials were determined with standard microelectrode techniques with major reference to the maximum rate of rise of the action potential (Vmax of AP), the time constant of recovery of the rapid sodium carrier (gamma) and repetitive firing due to early extra stimuli (arrhythmia). Lowering Ca caused depolarization and decreased Vmax and gamma; high Ca caused changes in the opposite direction. The relation of gamma to membrane potential was downward concave when membrane potential was changed by Ca but upward concave when equivalent changes in membrane potential were induced by changing the external potassium concentration. Lidocaine (1 X 10(-5) M) had no significant effect at 2.5 mM Ca but significantly decreased the overshoot and Vmax of AP, increased gamma and effective refractory period and was antiarrhythmic at 1.25 mM Ca. These changes were closely similar to the effects of lidocaine (5 X 10(-5) M) at 2.5 mM Ca. The effects of this high concentration were decreased when Ca was changed to 5.0 mM. The effect of lidocaine most clearly predictive of efficacy for the type of arrhythmia was that on Vmax, with changes in gamma in particular not being related to antiarrhythmic activity.", "PMID": 448649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8729", "title": "Adrenergic mechanisms in postvagal tachycardia.", "content": "The adrenergic mechanisms involved in the sinus tachycardia which follows the termination of vagal stimulation (\"postvagal tachycardia\") were studied in the anesthetized dog. The following results were obtained. Postvagal tachycardia: 1) is not affected by ventricular or atrial drive; 2) is enhanced by the application of either norepinephrine or dopamine on the sinus node area; 3) is increased in magnitude and duration by the catecholamine uptake blockers desipramine and phenoxybenzamine; 4) is significantly reduced by beta blockade with propranolol; 5) is not affected by alpha blockade with phentolamine or dopaminergic blockade with haloperidol; 6) is not affected by Disulfiram, a drug which inhibits dopamine beta-hydroxylase and thereby increases endogenous dopamine; 7) rises more slowly to a smaller peak after bretylium; and 8) is enhanced by phenoxybenzamine, but not by desipramine, after destruction of sympathetic nerves by 6-hydroxydopamine. It is concluded that release of catecholamines by vagally liberated acetylcholine is involved in postvagal tachycardia. The released catecholamine acts on beta but not alpha or dopamine receptors. Catecholamines released from sympathetic nerves may account for an initial component in postvagal tachycardia, but catecholamine(s) released from extraneuronal stores account for most of postvagal tachycardia.", "contents": "Adrenergic mechanisms in postvagal tachycardia. The adrenergic mechanisms involved in the sinus tachycardia which follows the termination of vagal stimulation (\"postvagal tachycardia\") were studied in the anesthetized dog. The following results were obtained. Postvagal tachycardia: 1) is not affected by ventricular or atrial drive; 2) is enhanced by the application of either norepinephrine or dopamine on the sinus node area; 3) is increased in magnitude and duration by the catecholamine uptake blockers desipramine and phenoxybenzamine; 4) is significantly reduced by beta blockade with propranolol; 5) is not affected by alpha blockade with phentolamine or dopaminergic blockade with haloperidol; 6) is not affected by Disulfiram, a drug which inhibits dopamine beta-hydroxylase and thereby increases endogenous dopamine; 7) rises more slowly to a smaller peak after bretylium; and 8) is enhanced by phenoxybenzamine, but not by desipramine, after destruction of sympathetic nerves by 6-hydroxydopamine. It is concluded that release of catecholamines by vagally liberated acetylcholine is involved in postvagal tachycardia. The released catecholamine acts on beta but not alpha or dopamine receptors. Catecholamines released from sympathetic nerves may account for an initial component in postvagal tachycardia, but catecholamine(s) released from extraneuronal stores account for most of postvagal tachycardia.", "PMID": 448648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8730", "title": "Cholinergic mechanisms in heart: interactions with 4-aminopyridine.", "content": "Acetylcholine (ACh) hyperpolarized the guinea-pig atrium and increased the maximum rate of rise of the spike and ionic conductance. There was a dose-dependent decrease in action potential duration in most preparations. However, some atrial showed a contractility decrease without a concomitant change in action potential duration. This was not related to acetylcholinesterase activity. Reduction in contractility by ACh resulted from doses 10 times lower than were required for action potential shortening. Small quantitative differences in electrical response were seen between the left and right atria. 4-Aminopyridine lengthened the action potential and increased spike amplitude. These effects were not frequency-dependent but were potentiated by low Ko+. This drug antagonized both the electrical and contractile effects of ACh, suggesting that they are mediated by an increase in KO+ permeability. Modification of excitation-contraction coupling by ACh is discussed and a role for cyclic guanosine 3':5'-monophosphate suggested.", "contents": "Cholinergic mechanisms in heart: interactions with 4-aminopyridine. Acetylcholine (ACh) hyperpolarized the guinea-pig atrium and increased the maximum rate of rise of the spike and ionic conductance. There was a dose-dependent decrease in action potential duration in most preparations. However, some atrial showed a contractility decrease without a concomitant change in action potential duration. This was not related to acetylcholinesterase activity. Reduction in contractility by ACh resulted from doses 10 times lower than were required for action potential shortening. Small quantitative differences in electrical response were seen between the left and right atria. 4-Aminopyridine lengthened the action potential and increased spike amplitude. These effects were not frequency-dependent but were potentiated by low Ko+. This drug antagonized both the electrical and contractile effects of ACh, suggesting that they are mediated by an increase in KO+ permeability. Modification of excitation-contraction coupling by ACh is discussed and a role for cyclic guanosine 3':5'-monophosphate suggested.", "PMID": 448650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8731", "title": "Studies on the behavioral and biochemical effects of hemicholinium in vivo.", "content": "Hemicholinium (HC-3) causes a behavioral reactivity in rats which is correlated with the depletion of brain acetylcholine (ACh). The decrease in ACh levels and behavioral effects caused by HC-3 are correlated in a dose-dependent manner, maximal effects being achieved at an intraventricular (i.vt.) dose of 1 microgram. The HC-3 concentration in the brain 2 hr after i.vt. injection does not increase further with doses greater than 10 microgram. HC-3 (i.vt.) does not affect the uptake of choline (Ch) into subcellular fractions prepared from treated animals. ACh depletion in the brain areas studied closely parallels the HC-3 distribution. HC-3 pretreatment results in greater effects on newly synthesized than on stored ACh. Utilizing a concentration equal to that found in brain after an in vivo dose, HC-3 does not inhibit the uptake of Ch in synaptosomal preparations in which the neuronal membrane was disrupted with ether. The commonly accepted mechanism of action of HC-3, i.e., an inhibition of high affinity Ch uptake at the cholinergic nerve terminal, appears to provide a satisfactory explanation of its effects in vivo.", "contents": "Studies on the behavioral and biochemical effects of hemicholinium in vivo. Hemicholinium (HC-3) causes a behavioral reactivity in rats which is correlated with the depletion of brain acetylcholine (ACh). The decrease in ACh levels and behavioral effects caused by HC-3 are correlated in a dose-dependent manner, maximal effects being achieved at an intraventricular (i.vt.) dose of 1 microgram. The HC-3 concentration in the brain 2 hr after i.vt. injection does not increase further with doses greater than 10 microgram. HC-3 (i.vt.) does not affect the uptake of choline (Ch) into subcellular fractions prepared from treated animals. ACh depletion in the brain areas studied closely parallels the HC-3 distribution. HC-3 pretreatment results in greater effects on newly synthesized than on stored ACh. Utilizing a concentration equal to that found in brain after an in vivo dose, HC-3 does not inhibit the uptake of Ch in synaptosomal preparations in which the neuronal membrane was disrupted with ether. The commonly accepted mechanism of action of HC-3, i.e., an inhibition of high affinity Ch uptake at the cholinergic nerve terminal, appears to provide a satisfactory explanation of its effects in vivo.", "PMID": 448651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8732", "title": "Effect of cephaloridine on respiration by renal cortical mitochondria.", "content": "The effects of the nephrotoxic antibiotic, cephaloridine, were studied in rabbit renal cortical mitochondria. Mitochondria from animals which received a toxic dose of 200 mg/kg of the drug 2 hr before sacrifice (in vivo exposure) had significantly decreased rates of respiration compared with those of mitochondria from untreated control animals. In vitro exposure of normal mitochondria to cephaloridine resulted in a qualitatively similar decrease of respiration. With both in vivo and in vitro exposure, inhibition was greatest with ADP-dependent respiration using succinate as substrate. The severity of in vitro inhibition of respiration showed some correlation to the degree of in situ cytotoxicity at different cephaloridine concentrations. The results are in agreement with the finding of a reduction of rates of respiration in renal tubule suspensions after similar in vivo and in vitro exposure to cephaloridine. These studies provide preliminary evidence that cephaloridine nephrotoxicity may be mediated through an inhibitory effect on mitochondrial respiration.", "contents": "Effect of cephaloridine on respiration by renal cortical mitochondria. The effects of the nephrotoxic antibiotic, cephaloridine, were studied in rabbit renal cortical mitochondria. Mitochondria from animals which received a toxic dose of 200 mg/kg of the drug 2 hr before sacrifice (in vivo exposure) had significantly decreased rates of respiration compared with those of mitochondria from untreated control animals. In vitro exposure of normal mitochondria to cephaloridine resulted in a qualitatively similar decrease of respiration. With both in vivo and in vitro exposure, inhibition was greatest with ADP-dependent respiration using succinate as substrate. The severity of in vitro inhibition of respiration showed some correlation to the degree of in situ cytotoxicity at different cephaloridine concentrations. The results are in agreement with the finding of a reduction of rates of respiration in renal tubule suspensions after similar in vivo and in vitro exposure to cephaloridine. These studies provide preliminary evidence that cephaloridine nephrotoxicity may be mediated through an inhibitory effect on mitochondrial respiration.", "PMID": 448652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8733", "title": "The exceptional potential in each primary care consultation.", "content": "A four-point framework is described which has been found to be helpful for general practitioners who try to achieve greater breadth in each consultation. The framework has also provided a useful stimulus in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, because it provides a nomenclature to identify four major components of clinical practice which are particularly relevant to primary care.", "contents": "The exceptional potential in each primary care consultation. A four-point framework is described which has been found to be helpful for general practitioners who try to achieve greater breadth in each consultation. The framework has also provided a useful stimulus in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, because it provides a nomenclature to identify four major components of clinical practice which are particularly relevant to primary care.", "PMID": 448665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8734", "title": "Common sense and consulting.", "content": "Three hundred and forty-two general practitioners in Scotland presented their views on content and training in relation to consulting with patients. Differences in responses from trainers, non-trainers, and trainees are examined and possible reasons for the divergences are discussed.", "contents": "Common sense and consulting. Three hundred and forty-two general practitioners in Scotland presented their views on content and training in relation to consulting with patients. Differences in responses from trainers, non-trainers, and trainees are examined and possible reasons for the divergences are discussed.", "PMID": 448666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8735", "title": "Cigarette smoking and associated disease.", "content": "I report an undergraduate medical student project in which a questionnaire was used to try to assess the present level of public knowledge about the harmful effects of cigarette smoking on health. Patients attending a health centre were selected for the study, and a total of 410 questionnaires were completed and analysed. Non-smokers appeared to be better informed about hazards than smokers. The general level of awareness was not as high as might be predicted in view of continual propaganda.", "contents": "Cigarette smoking and associated disease. I report an undergraduate medical student project in which a questionnaire was used to try to assess the present level of public knowledge about the harmful effects of cigarette smoking on health. Patients attending a health centre were selected for the study, and a total of 410 questionnaires were completed and analysed. Non-smokers appeared to be better informed about hazards than smokers. The general level of awareness was not as high as might be predicted in view of continual propaganda.", "PMID": 448668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8736", "title": "High blood pressure: public views and knowledge.", "content": "After completing a screening for hypertension among patients aged between 45 and 54 in a group practice, a sample of both responders and non-responders to screening were surveyed to determine their attitude to screening and knowledge of hypertension.The reasons for non-response were various, and 18 per cent felt screening to be unnecessary. There was little difference between responders (both hypertensive and non-hypertensive) and non-responders in their knowledge of hypertension, and they were well informed about related conditions and illnesses caused by hypertension. The majority were aware of some likelihood of the disease being symptomless, and 38 per cent thought no symptoms were likely to be caused by hypotensive drugs. They seemed aware that the treatment was long term, but only 14 per cent thought it would be life-long.", "contents": "High blood pressure: public views and knowledge. After completing a screening for hypertension among patients aged between 45 and 54 in a group practice, a sample of both responders and non-responders to screening were surveyed to determine their attitude to screening and knowledge of hypertension.The reasons for non-response were various, and 18 per cent felt screening to be unnecessary. There was little difference between responders (both hypertensive and non-hypertensive) and non-responders in their knowledge of hypertension, and they were well informed about related conditions and illnesses caused by hypertension. The majority were aware of some likelihood of the disease being symptomless, and 38 per cent thought no symptoms were likely to be caused by hypotensive drugs. They seemed aware that the treatment was long term, but only 14 per cent thought it would be life-long.", "PMID": 448669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8737", "title": "Lecturing to general practitioners.", "content": "We describe the findings of a telephone interview survey among those who have recently been paid through the Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) to lecture to general practitioners in the North-Western Region. We report the way the lectures are planned and the lecturers' attitudes and motivation. The findings have implications for both future research and policy.", "contents": "Lecturing to general practitioners. We describe the findings of a telephone interview survey among those who have recently been paid through the Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) to lecture to general practitioners in the North-Western Region. We report the way the lectures are planned and the lecturers' attitudes and motivation. The findings have implications for both future research and policy.", "PMID": 448671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8738", "title": "Electronic structures of cephalosporins and penicillins. 9. Departure of a leaving group in cephalosporins.", "content": "Molecular orbital calculations by the CNDO/2 method are used to study the potential energy surface for the stretching and rupturing of the CH2-OAc bond in a model cephalosporin structure, 7-amino-3-(acetoxymethyl)-3-cephem. The bond is easier to stretch and break when a nucleophilic group is in the vicinity of or attached to the beta-lactam carbonyl carbon (C8). The rate of acylation by a beta-lactam antibiotic at the receptor sites in bacterial cell-wall enzymes will be enhanced by a suitable leaving group at the 3' position. An orientational specificity is predicted for the direction of departure of the leaving group. Regardless of the direction the nucleophile approaches C8, the CH2-OAc bond is easiest to break when the acetate group departs from the alpha face of the molecule.", "contents": "Electronic structures of cephalosporins and penicillins. 9. Departure of a leaving group in cephalosporins. Molecular orbital calculations by the CNDO/2 method are used to study the potential energy surface for the stretching and rupturing of the CH2-OAc bond in a model cephalosporin structure, 7-amino-3-(acetoxymethyl)-3-cephem. The bond is easier to stretch and break when a nucleophilic group is in the vicinity of or attached to the beta-lactam carbonyl carbon (C8). The rate of acylation by a beta-lactam antibiotic at the receptor sites in bacterial cell-wall enzymes will be enhanced by a suitable leaving group at the 3' position. An orientational specificity is predicted for the direction of departure of the leaving group. Regardless of the direction the nucleophile approaches C8, the CH2-OAc bond is easiest to break when the acetate group departs from the alpha face of the molecule.", "PMID": 448675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8739", "title": "Computer assisted structure-activity studies of chemical carcinogens. An N-nitroso compound data set.", "content": "N-nitroso compounds, consisting of nitrosamines and nitrosamides, are potentially important in the etiology of human cancer. An attempt to study the molecular structure-carcinogenicity relations of these compounds is reported. A pattern-recognition approach was used to develop predictive ability for carcinogenic potential. A set of 15 calculated molecular structure descriptors that supported a linear discriminant function able to successfully separate 116 carcinogens from 28 noncarcinogens was identified. Predictive ability of an overall of 91%--93% for carcinogens and 85% for noncarcinogens--was obtained in the randomized testing. This relatively high predictability demonstrates that pattern-recognition methods can be useful in analyzing these compounds for carcinogenic activity. The inclusion of two electronic descriptors implicitly supports the alpha-hydroxylation hypothesis. The relations of descriptors used and possible mechanism of action are discussed.", "contents": "Computer assisted structure-activity studies of chemical carcinogens. An N-nitroso compound data set. N-nitroso compounds, consisting of nitrosamines and nitrosamides, are potentially important in the etiology of human cancer. An attempt to study the molecular structure-carcinogenicity relations of these compounds is reported. A pattern-recognition approach was used to develop predictive ability for carcinogenic potential. A set of 15 calculated molecular structure descriptors that supported a linear discriminant function able to successfully separate 116 carcinogens from 28 noncarcinogens was identified. Predictive ability of an overall of 91%--93% for carcinogens and 85% for noncarcinogens--was obtained in the randomized testing. This relatively high predictability demonstrates that pattern-recognition methods can be useful in analyzing these compounds for carcinogenic activity. The inclusion of two electronic descriptors implicitly supports the alpha-hydroxylation hypothesis. The relations of descriptors used and possible mechanism of action are discussed.", "PMID": 448677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8740", "title": "Actinomycin D oxazinones as improved antitumor agents.", "content": "1,4-Oxazinone derivatives of the phenoxazinone chromophore in actinomycin D (AMD) have been synthesized by condensation of AMD with alpha-keto acids. By varying the starting alpha-keto acid, the substitutions on the oxazinone ring and, consequently, the lipophilicity of the molecule could be altered. These oxazinone derivatives revert to AMD in physiological media and it appears that these oxazinones are \"depot\" forms of AMD and possess physicochemical and DNA-binding properties which are significantly different from those of AMD. The oxazinones, which have bulky and lipophilic substituents at position 3, demonstrate more pronounced antitumor activity against P388 mouse leukemia and are less toxic than AMD.", "contents": "Actinomycin D oxazinones as improved antitumor agents. 1,4-Oxazinone derivatives of the phenoxazinone chromophore in actinomycin D (AMD) have been synthesized by condensation of AMD with alpha-keto acids. By varying the starting alpha-keto acid, the substitutions on the oxazinone ring and, consequently, the lipophilicity of the molecule could be altered. These oxazinone derivatives revert to AMD in physiological media and it appears that these oxazinones are \"depot\" forms of AMD and possess physicochemical and DNA-binding properties which are significantly different from those of AMD. The oxazinones, which have bulky and lipophilic substituents at position 3, demonstrate more pronounced antitumor activity against P388 mouse leukemia and are less toxic than AMD.", "PMID": 448678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8741", "title": "Synthesis, base-catalyzed hydrolytic reactivity, and anticancer evaluation of O-aryl phosphorodiamidates as a novel class of pro(phosphorodiamidic acid mustards).", "content": "Bis(2-chloroethyl)phosphoramidic dichloride [MP(O)Cl2, M = N(CH2CH2Cl)2] has been used as the starting material for the synthesis of O-aryl phosphorodiamidates having the general structure MP(O)(NHR)OAr: 9, R = H, Ar = 4-NO2C6H4; 10, R = H, Ar = C6F5; 11, R = C6H5, Ar = C6F5; 12, R = 4-MeC6H4, Ar = C6F5; and 13, R = 4-EtOC6H4, Ar = C6F5. The phosphorodiamidic chloride precursor to 13 (14) was also isolated. Kinetics for the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of compounds 9--13 were investigated by UV and NMR methods and are considered in connection with service of these compounds as pro(phosphorodiamidic acid mustards) [MP(O)(NHR)OAr leads to MP(O)(NHR)OH] via an E1cB mechanism involving the intermediacy of a mustard-bearing metaphosphorodiimide [MP(O)=NR]. Anticancer screening tests against L1210 lymphoid leukemia in mice indicated that 9--14 are inactive; similar negative results were obtained with the KB cell culture, except in the case of 14 which was marginally active.", "contents": "Synthesis, base-catalyzed hydrolytic reactivity, and anticancer evaluation of O-aryl phosphorodiamidates as a novel class of pro(phosphorodiamidic acid mustards). Bis(2-chloroethyl)phosphoramidic dichloride [MP(O)Cl2, M = N(CH2CH2Cl)2] has been used as the starting material for the synthesis of O-aryl phosphorodiamidates having the general structure MP(O)(NHR)OAr: 9, R = H, Ar = 4-NO2C6H4; 10, R = H, Ar = C6F5; 11, R = C6H5, Ar = C6F5; 12, R = 4-MeC6H4, Ar = C6F5; and 13, R = 4-EtOC6H4, Ar = C6F5. The phosphorodiamidic chloride precursor to 13 (14) was also isolated. Kinetics for the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of compounds 9--13 were investigated by UV and NMR methods and are considered in connection with service of these compounds as pro(phosphorodiamidic acid mustards) [MP(O)(NHR)OAr leads to MP(O)(NHR)OH] via an E1cB mechanism involving the intermediacy of a mustard-bearing metaphosphorodiimide [MP(O)=NR]. Anticancer screening tests against L1210 lymphoid leukemia in mice indicated that 9--14 are inactive; similar negative results were obtained with the KB cell culture, except in the case of 14 which was marginally active.", "PMID": 448679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8742", "title": "Alkylating nucleosides. 2. Synthesis and cytostatic activity of bromomethylpyrazole and pyrazole nitrogen mustard nucleosides.", "content": "Glycosylation of ethyl 3(5)-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5(3)-carboxylate (3) and 3(5)-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5(3)-carboxamide (4) with poly-O-acetylated sugars via an acid-catalyzed fusion method afforded the corresponding ethyl 3-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxylate and 3-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxamide substituted nucleosides 5 and 7, respectively. In some cases, the positional isomers 6 and 8 were also obtained. Treatment of 5 and 7 with methanolic ammonia gave the deprotected 3-(aminomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxamide nucleosides 9. Reaction of 3--5 and 7 with bis(2-chloroethyl)amine led to the corresponding pyrazole nitrogen mustards 10--13. All the bromomethylpyrazole nucleosides described showed significant cytostatic activity against HeLa cell cultures.", "contents": "Alkylating nucleosides. 2. Synthesis and cytostatic activity of bromomethylpyrazole and pyrazole nitrogen mustard nucleosides. Glycosylation of ethyl 3(5)-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5(3)-carboxylate (3) and 3(5)-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5(3)-carboxamide (4) with poly-O-acetylated sugars via an acid-catalyzed fusion method afforded the corresponding ethyl 3-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxylate and 3-(bromomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxamide substituted nucleosides 5 and 7, respectively. In some cases, the positional isomers 6 and 8 were also obtained. Treatment of 5 and 7 with methanolic ammonia gave the deprotected 3-(aminomethyl)pyrazole-5-carboxamide nucleosides 9. Reaction of 3--5 and 7 with bis(2-chloroethyl)amine led to the corresponding pyrazole nitrogen mustards 10--13. All the bromomethylpyrazole nucleosides described showed significant cytostatic activity against HeLa cell cultures.", "PMID": 448680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8743", "title": "Acute effects of alkylating agents on canine renal function. 1. [4-(2-Bromoalkanoyl)phenoxy]acetic acids.", "content": "A group of [4-(2-bromoalkanoyl)phenoxy]acetic acids was studied to determine if there was an association between the alkylating ability and the diuretic activity of its members. Acute studies in dogs revealed that there is not a consistent correlation in the alkylating potential of these alpha-bromo ketones and their ability to induce a diuretic response. In addition, pretreatment of dogs with the various alpha-bromo ketones did not alter the diuretic activity normally observed with ethacrynic acid (EA). The role of chemical-induced renal tissue alkylation in the initiation of a diuresis or a nephrotoxic response is discussed.", "contents": "Acute effects of alkylating agents on canine renal function. 1. [4-(2-Bromoalkanoyl)phenoxy]acetic acids. A group of [4-(2-bromoalkanoyl)phenoxy]acetic acids was studied to determine if there was an association between the alkylating ability and the diuretic activity of its members. Acute studies in dogs revealed that there is not a consistent correlation in the alkylating potential of these alpha-bromo ketones and their ability to induce a diuretic response. In addition, pretreatment of dogs with the various alpha-bromo ketones did not alter the diuretic activity normally observed with ethacrynic acid (EA). The role of chemical-induced renal tissue alkylation in the initiation of a diuresis or a nephrotoxic response is discussed.", "PMID": 448681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8744", "title": "Synthesis and analgesic activity of some spiro[dibenz[b,f]oxepin-10,4'-piperidine] derivatives.", "content": "A series of 10,11-dihydro-11-oxospiro[dibenz[b,f]oxepin-10,4'-piperdine] derivatives (II) was synthesized and evaluated for analgesic activity in the phenylquinone writhing assay (PQW) and the tail-flick test in mice. Preliminary structure-activity correlations indicate that optimum activity is associated with a short-chain (R less than or equal to C2) N substituent and a nuclear fluorine function, as exemplified by 9b. This compound, when administered orally, was equipotent to morphine in protecting against mouse writhing. The observation that the PQW activity of 9b remained relatively unchanged after naloxone challenge seems to favor a nonnarcotic profile.", "contents": "Synthesis and analgesic activity of some spiro[dibenz[b,f]oxepin-10,4'-piperidine] derivatives. A series of 10,11-dihydro-11-oxospiro[dibenz[b,f]oxepin-10,4'-piperdine] derivatives (II) was synthesized and evaluated for analgesic activity in the phenylquinone writhing assay (PQW) and the tail-flick test in mice. Preliminary structure-activity correlations indicate that optimum activity is associated with a short-chain (R less than or equal to C2) N substituent and a nuclear fluorine function, as exemplified by 9b. This compound, when administered orally, was equipotent to morphine in protecting against mouse writhing. The observation that the PQW activity of 9b remained relatively unchanged after naloxone challenge seems to favor a nonnarcotic profile.", "PMID": 448682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8745", "title": "Synthesis and hypoglycemic activity of pyridyl alcohols.", "content": "The potent hypoglycemic activity of 3-(3-methyl-2-pyridyl)propan-1-ol (1) prompted us to synthesize and study related structures. Some of the variables studied were the position of the methyl and alcohol side chains, the distance between the heterocyclic ring and the hydroxyl group, the effect of additional nuclear substitution, and the effects of branching and substitution on the alcohol side chain. The compounds were tested in 48-h fasted rats, usually at a dose of 150 mg/kg po. 1, the corresponding propionic acid 12, the acetate and methyl ether of 1 (22 and 23), and the 5-methyl analogue of 1 (29) were of comparable hypoglycemic potency. However, these compounds all caused a concomitant elevation of hepatic triglycerides and/or death in the test animals when observations were continued for 4--24 h.", "contents": "Synthesis and hypoglycemic activity of pyridyl alcohols. The potent hypoglycemic activity of 3-(3-methyl-2-pyridyl)propan-1-ol (1) prompted us to synthesize and study related structures. Some of the variables studied were the position of the methyl and alcohol side chains, the distance between the heterocyclic ring and the hydroxyl group, the effect of additional nuclear substitution, and the effects of branching and substitution on the alcohol side chain. The compounds were tested in 48-h fasted rats, usually at a dose of 150 mg/kg po. 1, the corresponding propionic acid 12, the acetate and methyl ether of 1 (22 and 23), and the 5-methyl analogue of 1 (29) were of comparable hypoglycemic potency. However, these compounds all caused a concomitant elevation of hepatic triglycerides and/or death in the test animals when observations were continued for 4--24 h.", "PMID": 448683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8746", "title": "Synthesis and biological activity of cocaine analogues. 2. 6H-[2]Benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-ones.", "content": "1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2-methyl-6H-[2]benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-one (20) and cis- and trans-1,2,3,4,4a,10b-hexahydro-2-methyl-6H-[2]benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-one (3a and 3b) were synthesized. The design of 3b was based on the proposal that the active conformation of cocaine is one in which the phenyl and amino groups are arranged in a manner that will superimpose upon a beta-phenethylamine in a trans-staggered conformation. The compounds were compared with cocaine and tropacocaine for their ability to inhibit uptake of [3H]norepinephrine by rat brain synaptosomal preparations. The test compounds (IC50 = 3.2 X 10(-4) M, 20; 6.5 X 10(-4) M, 3a; and 3.2 X 10(-4) M, 3b; respectively) were considerably weaker than cocaine (IC50 = 5.8 X 10(-7) M) and tropacocaine (IC50 = 5.6 X 10(-6) M). Compound 3b showed selectivity at 1 X 10(-5) M for inhibiting the uptake of norepinephrine (36%). It inhibited dopamine (3%) and serotonin (0%) uptake to a much lesser extent, if at all, at this concentration.", "contents": "Synthesis and biological activity of cocaine analogues. 2. 6H-[2]Benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-ones. 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2-methyl-6H-[2]benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-one (20) and cis- and trans-1,2,3,4,4a,10b-hexahydro-2-methyl-6H-[2]benzopyrano[4,3-c]pyridin-6-one (3a and 3b) were synthesized. The design of 3b was based on the proposal that the active conformation of cocaine is one in which the phenyl and amino groups are arranged in a manner that will superimpose upon a beta-phenethylamine in a trans-staggered conformation. The compounds were compared with cocaine and tropacocaine for their ability to inhibit uptake of [3H]norepinephrine by rat brain synaptosomal preparations. The test compounds (IC50 = 3.2 X 10(-4) M, 20; 6.5 X 10(-4) M, 3a; and 3.2 X 10(-4) M, 3b; respectively) were considerably weaker than cocaine (IC50 = 5.8 X 10(-7) M) and tropacocaine (IC50 = 5.6 X 10(-6) M). Compound 3b showed selectivity at 1 X 10(-5) M for inhibiting the uptake of norepinephrine (36%). It inhibited dopamine (3%) and serotonin (0%) uptake to a much lesser extent, if at all, at this concentration.", "PMID": 448684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8747", "title": "Analogues of methotrexate.", "content": "Analogues of methotrexate (MTX) were prepared by alkylation of side-chain precursors with 6-(bromomethyl)-2,4-pteridinediamine followed, where necessary, by saponification of the intermediate esters and, in two cases, by electrophilic substitution reactions in the pyridine ring portion of 3-deazamethotrexate. Effects of the various modifications on their ability to inhibit dihydrofolate reductase, cytotoxicity, and activity against L1210 leukemia in mice were examined in light of recent findings concerning active transport of MTX and related compounds and the binding features of the MTX-dihydrofolate reductase complex.", "contents": "Analogues of methotrexate. Analogues of methotrexate (MTX) were prepared by alkylation of side-chain precursors with 6-(bromomethyl)-2,4-pteridinediamine followed, where necessary, by saponification of the intermediate esters and, in two cases, by electrophilic substitution reactions in the pyridine ring portion of 3-deazamethotrexate. Effects of the various modifications on their ability to inhibit dihydrofolate reductase, cytotoxicity, and activity against L1210 leukemia in mice were examined in light of recent findings concerning active transport of MTX and related compounds and the binding features of the MTX-dihydrofolate reductase complex.", "PMID": 448685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8748", "title": "Some 9-hydroxycannabinoid-like compounds. Synthesis and evaluation of analgesic and behavioral properties.", "content": "A series of 9-hydroxylated cannabinoid-like compounds was prepared and tested for analgesic properties in mice and behavioral properties in dogs. Although the prototype compound, 9-nor-9-hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol, has potent antinociceptive activity in laboratory animals, the new analogues were relatively inactive. All of the compounds produced an alteration of behavior in unanesthetized dogs. Two of the compounds produced cannabinoid-like effects and the other two produced general CNS depression.", "contents": "Some 9-hydroxycannabinoid-like compounds. Synthesis and evaluation of analgesic and behavioral properties. A series of 9-hydroxylated cannabinoid-like compounds was prepared and tested for analgesic properties in mice and behavioral properties in dogs. Although the prototype compound, 9-nor-9-hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol, has potent antinociceptive activity in laboratory animals, the new analogues were relatively inactive. All of the compounds produced an alteration of behavior in unanesthetized dogs. Two of the compounds produced cannabinoid-like effects and the other two produced general CNS depression.", "PMID": 448688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8749", "title": "Some 11-substituted tetrahydrocannabinols. Synthesis and comparison with the potent cannabinoid metabolites 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinols.", "content": "A series of compounds was prepared in which the 11-hydroxyl of 11-hydroxy-delta8-THC, the potent metabolite of delta8-THC, was replaced by a methyl, methyoxy, amino, or acetamido group. All of the compounds tested produced behavioral changes in dogs, but only the methoxy compound has analgesic properties in mice. An isosteric oxime was inactive in mice.", "contents": "Some 11-substituted tetrahydrocannabinols. Synthesis and comparison with the potent cannabinoid metabolites 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinols. A series of compounds was prepared in which the 11-hydroxyl of 11-hydroxy-delta8-THC, the potent metabolite of delta8-THC, was replaced by a methyl, methyoxy, amino, or acetamido group. All of the compounds tested produced behavioral changes in dogs, but only the methoxy compound has analgesic properties in mice. An isosteric oxime was inactive in mice.", "PMID": 448686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8750", "title": "2',3'-Bis(2-chloroethyl)aminophosphoryl-3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine: a cyclic nucleotide with antitumor activity.", "content": "The synthesis of the title compound from 3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine in 40% yield is reported. 3'-Amino-3'-deoxyadenosine was made by an improved synthesis in 12 steps from inexpensive D-xylose in 15% overall yield. Both isomers of the title compound, separated by column chromatography, possess confirmed activity against KB tumor cell cultures.", "contents": "2',3'-Bis(2-chloroethyl)aminophosphoryl-3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine: a cyclic nucleotide with antitumor activity. The synthesis of the title compound from 3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine in 40% yield is reported. 3'-Amino-3'-deoxyadenosine was made by an improved synthesis in 12 steps from inexpensive D-xylose in 15% overall yield. Both isomers of the title compound, separated by column chromatography, possess confirmed activity against KB tumor cell cultures.", "PMID": 448687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8751", "title": "Active-site studies of neurohypophyseal hormones: synthesis and pharmacological properties of [5-(N4,N4-dimethylasparagine)]oxytocin.", "content": "Synthesis and biological properties of [5-(N4,N4-dimethylasparagine)]oxytocin are reported. In this analogue, the hydrogens of the primary carboxamide moiety in the side chain of the asparagine residue in position 5 of the posterior pituitary hormone oxytocin have been replaced by two methyl groups. The protected nonapeptide intermediate was prepared by a stepwise procedure using solution techniques. The analogue possesses 4.60 +/- 0.03 units/mg (mean +/- SEM) uterotonic activity on the isolated rat uterine horn and 9.14 +/- 0.03 units/mg of avian vasodepressor activity. Moreover, it displays an identical intrinsic activity in the in vitro rat uterotonic assay as oxytocin, when tested in the presence of either 0.5 mM Ca2+ (standard assay conditions) or at reduced levels of Ca2+ (0.3, 0.15, and 0.05 mM). This result is significant in view of the proposed biologically active model of oxytocin, in which the side chain of the 5 position residue was assigned to contain an \"active element\" responsible for the intrinsic activity of the hormone when bound to the uterine receptor.", "contents": "Active-site studies of neurohypophyseal hormones: synthesis and pharmacological properties of [5-(N4,N4-dimethylasparagine)]oxytocin. Synthesis and biological properties of [5-(N4,N4-dimethylasparagine)]oxytocin are reported. In this analogue, the hydrogens of the primary carboxamide moiety in the side chain of the asparagine residue in position 5 of the posterior pituitary hormone oxytocin have been replaced by two methyl groups. The protected nonapeptide intermediate was prepared by a stepwise procedure using solution techniques. The analogue possesses 4.60 +/- 0.03 units/mg (mean +/- SEM) uterotonic activity on the isolated rat uterine horn and 9.14 +/- 0.03 units/mg of avian vasodepressor activity. Moreover, it displays an identical intrinsic activity in the in vitro rat uterotonic assay as oxytocin, when tested in the presence of either 0.5 mM Ca2+ (standard assay conditions) or at reduced levels of Ca2+ (0.3, 0.15, and 0.05 mM). This result is significant in view of the proposed biologically active model of oxytocin, in which the side chain of the 5 position residue was assigned to contain an \"active element\" responsible for the intrinsic activity of the hormone when bound to the uterine receptor.", "PMID": 448689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8752", "title": "Correlates of clinical performance during medical school.", "content": "Many efforts have been made to define the complex factors related to successful clinical performance and to determine relationships among them. This study was an attempt to increase the understanding of cognitive and noncognitive attributes of clinical performance. Intercorrelations among overall clinical performance ratings, quarterly comprehensive examination scores, total scores on the Part II examination of the National Board of Medical Examiners, and overall grade-point average were computed for a graduating class of medical students. Aspects of clinical performance pertaining to information, concepts, skills, ingenuity, and conscientiousness were found to correlate with academic achievement as measured by grades and cognitive tests; however, such a correlation was not found for other aspects pertaining to attitude, peer relations, maturity, patient rapport, and integrity.", "contents": "Correlates of clinical performance during medical school. Many efforts have been made to define the complex factors related to successful clinical performance and to determine relationships among them. This study was an attempt to increase the understanding of cognitive and noncognitive attributes of clinical performance. Intercorrelations among overall clinical performance ratings, quarterly comprehensive examination scores, total scores on the Part II examination of the National Board of Medical Examiners, and overall grade-point average were computed for a graduating class of medical students. Aspects of clinical performance pertaining to information, concepts, skills, ingenuity, and conscientiousness were found to correlate with academic achievement as measured by grades and cognitive tests; however, such a correlation was not found for other aspects pertaining to attitude, peer relations, maturity, patient rapport, and integrity.", "PMID": 448694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8753", "title": "Report on a survey of program directors regarding selection factors in graduate medical education.", "content": "A national random sample of 25 percent of the graduate education program directors in internal medicine, family medicine, surgery, and pediatrics was sent a questionnaire; subjects were asked to judge the importance of 31 variables in the selection of house staff. A rank-ordering of variables for all respondents placed interpersonal skills demonstrated in the interview as number one. When rank order correlations were calculated for all possible pairs of program specializations, strong positive relationships were revealed. A two-way analysis of covariance was also undertaken to assess how selected program characteristics, such as size of program, type of program, and affiliation or nonaffiliation with a medical school, affected the judgment of the importance of the variables. The results have implications for further studies in several areas.", "contents": "Report on a survey of program directors regarding selection factors in graduate medical education. A national random sample of 25 percent of the graduate education program directors in internal medicine, family medicine, surgery, and pediatrics was sent a questionnaire; subjects were asked to judge the importance of 31 variables in the selection of house staff. A rank-ordering of variables for all respondents placed interpersonal skills demonstrated in the interview as number one. When rank order correlations were calculated for all possible pairs of program specializations, strong positive relationships were revealed. A two-way analysis of covariance was also undertaken to assess how selected program characteristics, such as size of program, type of program, and affiliation or nonaffiliation with a medical school, affected the judgment of the importance of the variables. The results have implications for further studies in several areas.", "PMID": 448693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8754", "title": "A national survey of undergraduate teaching in obstetrics and gynecology.", "content": "Representatives of 114 academic departments of obstetrics and gynecology in North America completed a written questionnaire in 1977 designed to assess undergraduate educational programs. Respondents reported increases in numbers of departments and faculty per department and decreases in the length and number of students per clerkship in comparison with a 1968 survey. Small-group discussion, lecture, and professional patients were preferred instructional modalities of faculty and students. Evaluation procedures and faculty development activities are reported and discussed in relation to prior surveys of departments of obstetrics and gynecology.", "contents": "A national survey of undergraduate teaching in obstetrics and gynecology. Representatives of 114 academic departments of obstetrics and gynecology in North America completed a written questionnaire in 1977 designed to assess undergraduate educational programs. Respondents reported increases in numbers of departments and faculty per department and decreases in the length and number of students per clerkship in comparison with a 1968 survey. Small-group discussion, lecture, and professional patients were preferred instructional modalities of faculty and students. Evaluation procedures and faculty development activities are reported and discussed in relation to prior surveys of departments of obstetrics and gynecology.", "PMID": 448696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8755", "title": "On the professional socialization of black residents in psychiatry.", "content": "Residents in psychiatry, in addition to acquiring technical knowledge and skills, undergo the process of professional socialization during which they assimilate the values, attitudes, and normative behavior of their professional group. The socialization of any group of trainees is fostered by the clarity and precision of a socialization structure and by the visibility and contribution of certain specific agents of socialization. The authors outline the areas of this process that create problems for black residents in psychiatry and suggest alternatives to the present experience encountered in most training programs.", "contents": "On the professional socialization of black residents in psychiatry. Residents in psychiatry, in addition to acquiring technical knowledge and skills, undergo the process of professional socialization during which they assimilate the values, attitudes, and normative behavior of their professional group. The socialization of any group of trainees is fostered by the clarity and precision of a socialization structure and by the visibility and contribution of certain specific agents of socialization. The authors outline the areas of this process that create problems for black residents in psychiatry and suggest alternatives to the present experience encountered in most training programs.", "PMID": 448697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8756", "title": "Development of departmental promotion guidelines.", "content": "In making optimum use of its faculty, a medical school department should ensure that each faculty member has a clear understanding of what is expected of him and what will be evaluated when he is considered for reappointment or promotion. A set of departmental promotion guidelines which are available to all faculty can serve both these ends. In addition to defining the nature of the work which will be evaluated and stressing that performance quality is important, such guidelines should make explicit the various ways in which the work will benefit the department, the medical school, and the discipline. The guidelines can be used at the time of promotion, but they should also contribute to an ongoing evaluation of faculty work by the administration and by the faculty themselves.", "contents": "Development of departmental promotion guidelines. In making optimum use of its faculty, a medical school department should ensure that each faculty member has a clear understanding of what is expected of him and what will be evaluated when he is considered for reappointment or promotion. A set of departmental promotion guidelines which are available to all faculty can serve both these ends. In addition to defining the nature of the work which will be evaluated and stressing that performance quality is important, such guidelines should make explicit the various ways in which the work will benefit the department, the medical school, and the discipline. The guidelines can be used at the time of promotion, but they should also contribute to an ongoing evaluation of faculty work by the administration and by the faculty themselves.", "PMID": 448698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8757", "title": "Continuing medical education: linking the community hospital and the medical school.", "content": "Community hospitals and medical schools have different but complementary resources to carry out continuing medical education. To strengthen the educational capabilities of both, a group of community hospitals has been linked to a medical school in a continuing medical education network. A peripatetic educational development team based at the medical school completes the link by helping community hospital physicians identify educational needs and develop educational responses, using both local and medical school experts as faculty. The educational development team provides skills and staffing which no small or moderate-sized community hospital could afford alone. The program is financially feasible for community hospitals and the medical school, does not consume the resources of either, and conserves the time of the community physician and medical school faculty.", "contents": "Continuing medical education: linking the community hospital and the medical school. Community hospitals and medical schools have different but complementary resources to carry out continuing medical education. To strengthen the educational capabilities of both, a group of community hospitals has been linked to a medical school in a continuing medical education network. A peripatetic educational development team based at the medical school completes the link by helping community hospital physicians identify educational needs and develop educational responses, using both local and medical school experts as faculty. The educational development team provides skills and staffing which no small or moderate-sized community hospital could afford alone. The program is financially feasible for community hospitals and the medical school, does not consume the resources of either, and conserves the time of the community physician and medical school faculty.", "PMID": 448695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8758", "title": "Comparison of faculty and resident expectations for residency training in hypertension.", "content": "Faculty and residents in family medicine rated the degree of importance for a resident to have mastered each of 123 performance objectives by the end of residency training. The performance objectives, developed at the national level, describe the diagnosis, treatment, and management of clinic patients with hypertension. While faculty members' ratings of the objectives were in moderate agreement, the ratings of the residents by level of training were in low agreement. A comparison of faculty and resident ratings resulted in very low agreement. An analysis of the type and nature of the performance objectives and topic areas where disagreement occurred was also conducted. The results indicate that while disagreement was widespread, no pattern for the disagreement was evident. Implications for the use of performance objectives developed outside a local residency program are discussed.", "contents": "Comparison of faculty and resident expectations for residency training in hypertension. Faculty and residents in family medicine rated the degree of importance for a resident to have mastered each of 123 performance objectives by the end of residency training. The performance objectives, developed at the national level, describe the diagnosis, treatment, and management of clinic patients with hypertension. While faculty members' ratings of the objectives were in moderate agreement, the ratings of the residents by level of training were in low agreement. A comparison of faculty and resident ratings resulted in very low agreement. An analysis of the type and nature of the performance objectives and topic areas where disagreement occurred was also conducted. The results indicate that while disagreement was widespread, no pattern for the disagreement was evident. Implications for the use of performance objectives developed outside a local residency program are discussed.", "PMID": 448700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8759", "title": "Introduction of ambulatory medical training in a Veterans Administration hospital.", "content": "Planners of postgraduate medical education in the United States have mandated that training programs include experience in continuing patient care in the ambulatory setting. Idiosyncratic administrative features and limitation of resources present relatively unique problems for the development of such programs in Veterans Administration teaching hospitals. The authors describe the implementation of a continuity of care clinic in a highly subspecialized large VA internal medicine training program. Crucially, all residents attend the clinic on the same day. The internal medicine educational program was altered to prevent conflict of the new clinic with other teaching activities. The program has been well received by the involved house staff members and has achieved some of the intended goals.", "contents": "Introduction of ambulatory medical training in a Veterans Administration hospital. Planners of postgraduate medical education in the United States have mandated that training programs include experience in continuing patient care in the ambulatory setting. Idiosyncratic administrative features and limitation of resources present relatively unique problems for the development of such programs in Veterans Administration teaching hospitals. The authors describe the implementation of a continuity of care clinic in a highly subspecialized large VA internal medicine training program. Crucially, all residents attend the clinic on the same day. The internal medicine educational program was altered to prevent conflict of the new clinic with other teaching activities. The program has been well received by the involved house staff members and has achieved some of the intended goals.", "PMID": 448699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8760", "title": "Can continuity of medical care be taught?", "content": "The health sciences literature indicates that although continuity often has been shown to be associated with a number of favorable outcomes, the concept is as yet poorly conceptualized and difficult to quantify. In this paper the authors describe an approach to teaching continuity developed at the University of Washington. Beginning in 1973--74 second-year students in an elective family medicine preceptorship were placed with practicing family physicians one-half day per week for a complete academic year. The medical care of a few families was closely followed by each student throughout the period. Required written reports of each student's longitudinal-care experiences were analyzed to identify student-perceived benefits of extended patient contact. Three-fourths of the students over a two-year period were judged to have experienced important aspects of continuity. Results suggest that the teaching program described is a viable means for teaching students to recognize, appreciate, and employ approaches to patient care available only in settings characterized by continuity.", "contents": "Can continuity of medical care be taught? The health sciences literature indicates that although continuity often has been shown to be associated with a number of favorable outcomes, the concept is as yet poorly conceptualized and difficult to quantify. In this paper the authors describe an approach to teaching continuity developed at the University of Washington. Beginning in 1973--74 second-year students in an elective family medicine preceptorship were placed with practicing family physicians one-half day per week for a complete academic year. The medical care of a few families was closely followed by each student throughout the period. Required written reports of each student's longitudinal-care experiences were analyzed to identify student-perceived benefits of extended patient contact. Three-fourths of the students over a two-year period were judged to have experienced important aspects of continuity. Results suggest that the teaching program described is a viable means for teaching students to recognize, appreciate, and employ approaches to patient care available only in settings characterized by continuity.", "PMID": 448707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8761", "title": "Mental health of medical school applicants: the role of the admissions committee.", "content": "This study was of the role of admissions committees as it relates to the mental health of applicants. Two-part questionnaires were sent to 115 medical schools. The first part explored the composition of the committee. In most schools the dean selected the members, attempting to obtain equal representation from clinical and basic science departments; most of the schools had one or more psychiatrists on the committee. The second part focused on the policy for applicants with former mental health problems. Over one-third of the committees asked about previous or present mental illness or therapy. Ninety percent of the schools had no policy or guidelines for using such information; instead, most relied on psychiatric interview or outside reports in making admissions decisions. The impact of federal legislation regarding the handicapped on admissions procedures is discussed. Since more students with previous or current psychiatric problems may be admitted, schools must be prepared to respond to their needs as fully as they now respond to other medical problems.", "contents": "Mental health of medical school applicants: the role of the admissions committee. This study was of the role of admissions committees as it relates to the mental health of applicants. Two-part questionnaires were sent to 115 medical schools. The first part explored the composition of the committee. In most schools the dean selected the members, attempting to obtain equal representation from clinical and basic science departments; most of the schools had one or more psychiatrists on the committee. The second part focused on the policy for applicants with former mental health problems. Over one-third of the committees asked about previous or present mental illness or therapy. Ninety percent of the schools had no policy or guidelines for using such information; instead, most relied on psychiatric interview or outside reports in making admissions decisions. The impact of federal legislation regarding the handicapped on admissions procedures is discussed. Since more students with previous or current psychiatric problems may be admitted, schools must be prepared to respond to their needs as fully as they now respond to other medical problems.", "PMID": 448708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8762", "title": "An evaluation of income incentives and board-certification trends.", "content": "In this paper the author examines income differentials between board-certified and non-board-certified physicians to determine whether the trend toward board certification is consistent with economic incentives. Although simple income comparisons indicate substantial differentials by certification status, after adjustments are made for specialty-mix, age distribution, and hours worked, the remaining differential is small. However, results by specialty indicate that physicians are most likely to become certified in specialties with the largest income differentials.", "contents": "An evaluation of income incentives and board-certification trends. In this paper the author examines income differentials between board-certified and non-board-certified physicians to determine whether the trend toward board certification is consistent with economic incentives. Although simple income comparisons indicate substantial differentials by certification status, after adjustments are made for specialty-mix, age distribution, and hours worked, the remaining differential is small. However, results by specialty indicate that physicians are most likely to become certified in specialties with the largest income differentials.", "PMID": 448709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8763", "title": "Time trends in the association of a rural or urban background with physician location.", "content": "The association of rural or urban background with choice of practice location was investigated in two time periods, 1950--1955 and 1963--1968, using the alumni of Marquette School of Medicine (now the Medical College of Wisconsin) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Background included size of communities of birth, high school, college, and internship. Small communities were screened to distinguish suburban from rural settings. It was found that in the 1950s the percentage of physicians from rural schools who chose to practice in rural areas was 2.2 times as great as this percentage for physicians from nonrural high schools (26 percent versus 12 percent). In the 1960s the ratio increased to 3.5, (35 percent versus 10 percent). This time trend was reversed for physicians more than 28 years old at the time of graduation from medical school. Place of birth and place of internship also were significantly associated with practice location; place of college showed a significant association with practice location only in the 1950s; and class rank was not associated with place of practice.", "contents": "Time trends in the association of a rural or urban background with physician location. The association of rural or urban background with choice of practice location was investigated in two time periods, 1950--1955 and 1963--1968, using the alumni of Marquette School of Medicine (now the Medical College of Wisconsin) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Background included size of communities of birth, high school, college, and internship. Small communities were screened to distinguish suburban from rural settings. It was found that in the 1950s the percentage of physicians from rural schools who chose to practice in rural areas was 2.2 times as great as this percentage for physicians from nonrural high schools (26 percent versus 12 percent). In the 1960s the ratio increased to 3.5, (35 percent versus 10 percent). This time trend was reversed for physicians more than 28 years old at the time of graduation from medical school. Place of birth and place of internship also were significantly associated with practice location; place of college showed a significant association with practice location only in the 1950s; and class rank was not associated with place of practice.", "PMID": 448710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8764", "title": "Medical student instructional costs in a primary care clerkship.", "content": "Using a variety of techniques, such as logs kept daily by the faculty, direct observation, and on-site interviews, the authors determined the instructional costs of a required third-year primary care clerkship based in an ambulatory care setting. Included in the analysis were labor costs of both faculty members and nonfaculty personnel, space and materials, and general university overhead. Total instructional costs were $54.20/student/day. If other third-year clinical clerkships generate equivalent costs, the direct instructional costs of clerkships for third-year medical students would be in excess of $11,500/student/year. The study results imply that ambulatory-based teaching of medical students generates considerable costs and thus requires support from student tuition, federal or state government, or other sources.", "contents": "Medical student instructional costs in a primary care clerkship. Using a variety of techniques, such as logs kept daily by the faculty, direct observation, and on-site interviews, the authors determined the instructional costs of a required third-year primary care clerkship based in an ambulatory care setting. Included in the analysis were labor costs of both faculty members and nonfaculty personnel, space and materials, and general university overhead. Total instructional costs were $54.20/student/day. If other third-year clinical clerkships generate equivalent costs, the direct instructional costs of clerkships for third-year medical students would be in excess of $11,500/student/year. The study results imply that ambulatory-based teaching of medical students generates considerable costs and thus requires support from student tuition, federal or state government, or other sources.", "PMID": 448711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8765", "title": "A 'firm' system for graduate training in general internal medicine.", "content": "The faculty of the Department of Medicine at Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital has responded to the challenge of fostering general internal medicine in a graduate training program by organizing a \"firm\" system of medical care which has appealed to academic internists with broad interests in clinical medicine. This firm system consists of four medical teams which care for distinct patient populations, closely integrating their outpatient and inpatient care. The firms are made up of all the house staff in training in internal medicine together with senior and junior faculty members who are directors for the firms. Medical students in general medicine are also assigned to firms. This firm system is relatively simple to understand and establish and is readily applicable to other academic departments with general medical responsibilities.", "contents": "A 'firm' system for graduate training in general internal medicine. The faculty of the Department of Medicine at Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital has responded to the challenge of fostering general internal medicine in a graduate training program by organizing a \"firm\" system of medical care which has appealed to academic internists with broad interests in clinical medicine. This firm system consists of four medical teams which care for distinct patient populations, closely integrating their outpatient and inpatient care. The firms are made up of all the house staff in training in internal medicine together with senior and junior faculty members who are directors for the firms. Medical students in general medicine are also assigned to firms. This firm system is relatively simple to understand and establish and is readily applicable to other academic departments with general medical responsibilities.", "PMID": 448712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8766", "title": "A multidisciplinary clerkship in emergency medicine.", "content": "An obligatory, multidisciplinary, fourth-year emergency medicine clerkship is described and the particular problems of multidisciplinary courses discussed. The course is designed to produce medical students who adequately demonstrate: knowledge of emergency care and facility in specified skills, familiarity with the appropriate use of an emergency room, and conversance with treatment of nonemergency cases. Students are required to complete successfully an advanced cardiac life support providers course, serve on ambulance duty, rotate through a community hospital emergency room, and participate in the more traditional clinical experiences. The course offers the fourth-year student an opportunity to synthesize prior knowledge within the context of a multidisciplinary patient care experience.", "contents": "A multidisciplinary clerkship in emergency medicine. An obligatory, multidisciplinary, fourth-year emergency medicine clerkship is described and the particular problems of multidisciplinary courses discussed. The course is designed to produce medical students who adequately demonstrate: knowledge of emergency care and facility in specified skills, familiarity with the appropriate use of an emergency room, and conversance with treatment of nonemergency cases. Students are required to complete successfully an advanced cardiac life support providers course, serve on ambulance duty, rotate through a community hospital emergency room, and participate in the more traditional clinical experiences. The course offers the fourth-year student an opportunity to synthesize prior knowledge within the context of a multidisciplinary patient care experience.", "PMID": 448713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8767", "title": "Functions of a family medicine preceptorship.", "content": "The preceptorship in family medicine, a required four-week experience for fourth-year medical students at the University of North Carolina, was studied during academic year 1976--77. Analysis of narrative comments and closed-ended scales indicated that the preceptorship was a \"synthesis\" experience valued by both students and preceptors, regardless of the students' choice of graduate specialty training. From these same data seven functions of the preceptorship, many of which are not official program goals, were identified. The authors recommend that preceptorships be designed and evaluated with these, often latent, functions in mind.", "contents": "Functions of a family medicine preceptorship. The preceptorship in family medicine, a required four-week experience for fourth-year medical students at the University of North Carolina, was studied during academic year 1976--77. Analysis of narrative comments and closed-ended scales indicated that the preceptorship was a \"synthesis\" experience valued by both students and preceptors, regardless of the students' choice of graduate specialty training. From these same data seven functions of the preceptorship, many of which are not official program goals, were identified. The authors recommend that preceptorships be designed and evaluated with these, often latent, functions in mind.", "PMID": 448714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8768", "title": "Isolation of an abnormally phosphorylated erythrocyte membrane band 3 glycoprotein from patients with myotonic muscular dystrophy.", "content": "A fraction of erythrocyte Band 3 (Mr, 93,000) glycoprotein that demonstrates decreased autophosphorylation in membranes from myotonic muscular dystrophy patients is demonstrated. Sequential affinity chromatography of Triton X-100 solubilized erythrocyte membrane proteins separated three specifically retained glycoprotein fractions on a Ricin Communis I-Sepharose 4B column. One fraction contains a portion of the major sialoglycoprotein (apparent Mr, 78,000) and is specifically eluted from the column by 10 mM NaCl and 100 mM D-galactose (10/100). The two other glycoprotein fractions are eluted by 100 mM NaCl, 10 mM D-galactose (100/10) and 100 mM NaCl, 100 mM D-galactose (100/100). The composition of both fractions contains greater than 95% Band 3 (apparent Mr, 93,000 glycoprotein. The quantities of glycoprotein in each fraction obtained from erythrocytes of myotonic dystrophy patients did not differ from the quantities obtained from control erythrocytes. Following endogenous protein kinase incubations of ghosts with [gamma-32P]ATP, the specific [32P] phosphorylation of the 10/100 and 100/10 fractions are identical. The 100/100 fraction, which makes up approximately 3% of the total erythrocyte membrane protein, demonstrates a different pattern for myotonic dystrophy patients; specific phosphorylation was reduced by 50% relative to activity in control experiments. These findings are consistent with previous experiments that demonstrated decreased autophosphorylation of the glycoprotein portion of Band 3 (Roses & Appel, 1975, J. Membrane Biol 20:51) and are consistent with the autosomal dominant mode of inheritance in this disease.", "contents": "Isolation of an abnormally phosphorylated erythrocyte membrane band 3 glycoprotein from patients with myotonic muscular dystrophy. A fraction of erythrocyte Band 3 (Mr, 93,000) glycoprotein that demonstrates decreased autophosphorylation in membranes from myotonic muscular dystrophy patients is demonstrated. Sequential affinity chromatography of Triton X-100 solubilized erythrocyte membrane proteins separated three specifically retained glycoprotein fractions on a Ricin Communis I-Sepharose 4B column. One fraction contains a portion of the major sialoglycoprotein (apparent Mr, 78,000) and is specifically eluted from the column by 10 mM NaCl and 100 mM D-galactose (10/100). The two other glycoprotein fractions are eluted by 100 mM NaCl, 10 mM D-galactose (100/10) and 100 mM NaCl, 100 mM D-galactose (100/100). The composition of both fractions contains greater than 95% Band 3 (apparent Mr, 93,000 glycoprotein. The quantities of glycoprotein in each fraction obtained from erythrocytes of myotonic dystrophy patients did not differ from the quantities obtained from control erythrocytes. Following endogenous protein kinase incubations of ghosts with [gamma-32P]ATP, the specific [32P] phosphorylation of the 10/100 and 100/10 fractions are identical. The 100/100 fraction, which makes up approximately 3% of the total erythrocyte membrane protein, demonstrates a different pattern for myotonic dystrophy patients; specific phosphorylation was reduced by 50% relative to activity in control experiments. These findings are consistent with previous experiments that demonstrated decreased autophosphorylation of the glycoprotein portion of Band 3 (Roses & Appel, 1975, J. Membrane Biol 20:51) and are consistent with the autosomal dominant mode of inheritance in this disease.", "PMID": 448724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8769", "title": "Structural simplicity of the zonula occludens in the electrolyte secreting epithelium of the avian salt gland.", "content": "The structure of the zonula occludens in the secretory epithelium of the salt gland of the domestic duck was determined by thin section and freeze-fracture electron microscopy. These glands secrete an effluent with a NaCl concentration four times that of plasma, and thus maintain a steep ionic gradient across their secretory epithelium. Freeze-fracture replicas from salt stressed ducks demonstrate that the zonula occludens is surprisingly shallow in depth (20-25 nm) and generally consists of two parallel junctional strands which are juxaposed along their entire length. In addition to the simplicity of the junction separating mucosal and serosal compartments, the ratio of junctional length to apical surface area is large since luminal surfaces of secretory cells are narrow and intermesh with one another. The zonula occludens in nonsecreting fresh water-adapted birds is similar to the salt stressed group except that two sets of double strand junctions are seen in addition to junctions consisting of a single set. Based on previous ultrastructural, cytochemical and physiological studies in salt glands and in other epithelia, a model for salt secretion was suggested in which intercellular space Na+, generated by basolateral ouabain-sensitive Na+ pumps, reaches the lumen via a paracellular route (Ernst & Mills, 1977, J. Cell Biol. 75:74). The simplicity of the morphological appearance of the zonula occludens in the salt gland, which resembles that described for several epithelia known to be leaky to ions, is consistent with this hypothesis.", "contents": "Structural simplicity of the zonula occludens in the electrolyte secreting epithelium of the avian salt gland. The structure of the zonula occludens in the secretory epithelium of the salt gland of the domestic duck was determined by thin section and freeze-fracture electron microscopy. These glands secrete an effluent with a NaCl concentration four times that of plasma, and thus maintain a steep ionic gradient across their secretory epithelium. Freeze-fracture replicas from salt stressed ducks demonstrate that the zonula occludens is surprisingly shallow in depth (20-25 nm) and generally consists of two parallel junctional strands which are juxaposed along their entire length. In addition to the simplicity of the junction separating mucosal and serosal compartments, the ratio of junctional length to apical surface area is large since luminal surfaces of secretory cells are narrow and intermesh with one another. The zonula occludens in nonsecreting fresh water-adapted birds is similar to the salt stressed group except that two sets of double strand junctions are seen in addition to junctions consisting of a single set. Based on previous ultrastructural, cytochemical and physiological studies in salt glands and in other epithelia, a model for salt secretion was suggested in which intercellular space Na+, generated by basolateral ouabain-sensitive Na+ pumps, reaches the lumen via a paracellular route (Ernst & Mills, 1977, J. Cell Biol. 75:74). The simplicity of the morphological appearance of the zonula occludens in the salt gland, which resembles that described for several epithelia known to be leaky to ions, is consistent with this hypothesis.", "PMID": 448725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8770", "title": "K+ conduction phenomena applicable to the low frequency impedance of squid axon.", "content": "The observation of peaking in power spectra of K current noise in squid axon (Fishman, H.M, Moore, L.E., Poussart, D.J.M. 1975, J. Membrane Biol. 24:305) led to the calculation of low frequency K conduction feature in the impedance (admittance) which was confirmed (Fishman, H.M., Poussart, D.J.M., Moore, L.E. & Siebenga, E., 1977, J. Membrane Biol. 32:255). This paper analyzes two physical phenomena, one within and the other outside of the excitable membrane, that might account for the low frequency impedance (admittance) feature. The accumulation of potassium ions in a space outside the axon in conjunction with diffusion through the Schwann cell layer produces a low-frequency mode that is similar in some respects to that observed experimentally. Alternatively, a hypothetical inactivation process, with a voltage-dependent time constant, associated with conduction in potassium channels gives a better account of the data. Either or both of these phenomena could be involved in producing the low-frequency impedance behavior in the squid axon.", "contents": "K+ conduction phenomena applicable to the low frequency impedance of squid axon. The observation of peaking in power spectra of K current noise in squid axon (Fishman, H.M, Moore, L.E., Poussart, D.J.M. 1975, J. Membrane Biol. 24:305) led to the calculation of low frequency K conduction feature in the impedance (admittance) which was confirmed (Fishman, H.M., Poussart, D.J.M., Moore, L.E. & Siebenga, E., 1977, J. Membrane Biol. 32:255). This paper analyzes two physical phenomena, one within and the other outside of the excitable membrane, that might account for the low frequency impedance (admittance) feature. The accumulation of potassium ions in a space outside the axon in conjunction with diffusion through the Schwann cell layer produces a low-frequency mode that is similar in some respects to that observed experimentally. Alternatively, a hypothetical inactivation process, with a voltage-dependent time constant, associated with conduction in potassium channels gives a better account of the data. Either or both of these phenomena could be involved in producing the low-frequency impedance behavior in the squid axon.", "PMID": 448729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8771", "title": "Effects of bicarbonate on fluid and electrolyte transport by the guinea pig gallbladder: a bicarbonate-chloride exchange.", "content": "Fluid transport and net fluxes of Na, K, Cl and HCO3 by guinea pig gallbladder were investigated in vitro. A perfused gallbladder preparation was devised to simultaneously study unidirectional fluxes of 22Na and 36Cl. The net Cl flux exceeded the net Na flux during fluid absorption in the presence of HCO3. This Cl excess was counterbalanced by a net HCO3 secretion: a HCO3-Cl exchange. PGE1 reversed the direction of fluid transport and abolished the net Cl flux. The magnitude of the HCO3 secretion remained unchanged, but shifted from a HCO3-Cl exchange to a net secretion of NaHCO3 and KHCO3. Furosemide inhibited both the HCO3-Cl exchange and HCO3 secretion after PGE1 without influencing fluid absorption. Ouabain inhibited the HCO3-Cl exchange as well as fluid absorption; only the effect on the HCO3 secretion was entirely reversible. Secreted HCO3 appeared not to be derived from metabolic sources since HCO3 secretion was abolished in a HCO3-free bathing medium. HCO3 secretion was also dependent on the Na concentration of the bathing fluid. Three lines of evidence are presented in favor of an active HCO3 secretion in guinea pig gallbladder. HCO3 is secreted against: (i) a chemical gradient, (ii) an electrical gradient and (iii) the direction of fluid movement under control conditions.", "contents": "Effects of bicarbonate on fluid and electrolyte transport by the guinea pig gallbladder: a bicarbonate-chloride exchange. Fluid transport and net fluxes of Na, K, Cl and HCO3 by guinea pig gallbladder were investigated in vitro. A perfused gallbladder preparation was devised to simultaneously study unidirectional fluxes of 22Na and 36Cl. The net Cl flux exceeded the net Na flux during fluid absorption in the presence of HCO3. This Cl excess was counterbalanced by a net HCO3 secretion: a HCO3-Cl exchange. PGE1 reversed the direction of fluid transport and abolished the net Cl flux. The magnitude of the HCO3 secretion remained unchanged, but shifted from a HCO3-Cl exchange to a net secretion of NaHCO3 and KHCO3. Furosemide inhibited both the HCO3-Cl exchange and HCO3 secretion after PGE1 without influencing fluid absorption. Ouabain inhibited the HCO3-Cl exchange as well as fluid absorption; only the effect on the HCO3 secretion was entirely reversible. Secreted HCO3 appeared not to be derived from metabolic sources since HCO3 secretion was abolished in a HCO3-free bathing medium. HCO3 secretion was also dependent on the Na concentration of the bathing fluid. Three lines of evidence are presented in favor of an active HCO3 secretion in guinea pig gallbladder. HCO3 is secreted against: (i) a chemical gradient, (ii) an electrical gradient and (iii) the direction of fluid movement under control conditions.", "PMID": 448726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8772", "title": "Active and passive properties of rabbit descending colon: a microelectrode and nystatin study.", "content": "The electrical properties of the basolateral membrane of rabbit descending colon were studied with microelectrode methods in conjunction with the polyene antibiotic nystatin. Two problems were examined: (i) the relative distribution of tight junctional, apical membrane and basolateral membrane resistances, and (ii) the ionic basis of the basolateral membrane potential. Intracellular K+ activity (K+) was measured using liquid ion exchanger microelectrodes ((K+) = 76 +/- 2 MM) and was found not to be in equilibrium with the basolateral membrane potential. In order to measure membrane resistances and to estimate the selective permeability of the basolateral membrane, the apical membrane was treated with nystatin and bathed with a K2SO4 Ringer's solution which was designed to mimic intracellular K+ composition. This procedure virtually eliminated the resistance and electromotive force of the apical membrane. Shunt resistance was calculated by two independent methods based on microelectrode and transepithelial measurements. Both methods produced similar results (Rs = 691 +/- 63 omega cm2 and 770 +/- 247 omega cm2, respectively). These findings indicate that the shunt has no significant selectivity, contrary to previous reports. Native apical membrane resistance was estimated as 705 +/- 123 V cm2 and basolateral membrane resistance was 95 +/- 14 V cm2. To estimate basolateral membrane selectivity, the serosa was bathed in a NaCl Ringer's solution followed by a series of changes in which all or part of the Na+ was replaced by equimolar amounts of K+. From measures of bi-ionic potentials and conductance during these replacements, we calculated potassium permeability and selectivity ratios for the nystatin-treated colon by fitting these results to the constant field equations. By correcting for shunt conductance, it was then possible to estimate the selective permeability of the basolateral membrane alone. Selectivity estimates were as follows: PNa/PK = .08 and PCl/ PK = .07 (uncorrected for shunt) and PNa/PK = .04 and PCl/PK = .06 (basolateral membrane alone). In a second set of experiments, evidence for an electrogenic Na+ pump in the basolateral membrane is presented. A small ouabain-sensitive potential could be generated in the nystatin-treated colon in the absence of chemical or electrical gradients by mucosal, but not serosal, addition of NaCl. We conclude that this electrogenic pump may contribute to the basolateral membrane potential; however, the primary source of this potential is \"passive\": specifically, a potassium gradient which is maintained by an \"active\" transport process. An appendix compares the results of nystatin experiments to amiloride experiments which were conducted separately on the same tissues. The purpose of this comparison was to develop a comprehensive model of colonic transport. The analysis reveals a leak conductance in the apical membrane and the presence of an amiloride-insensitive conductance pathway.", "contents": "Active and passive properties of rabbit descending colon: a microelectrode and nystatin study. The electrical properties of the basolateral membrane of rabbit descending colon were studied with microelectrode methods in conjunction with the polyene antibiotic nystatin. Two problems were examined: (i) the relative distribution of tight junctional, apical membrane and basolateral membrane resistances, and (ii) the ionic basis of the basolateral membrane potential. Intracellular K+ activity (K+) was measured using liquid ion exchanger microelectrodes ((K+) = 76 +/- 2 MM) and was found not to be in equilibrium with the basolateral membrane potential. In order to measure membrane resistances and to estimate the selective permeability of the basolateral membrane, the apical membrane was treated with nystatin and bathed with a K2SO4 Ringer's solution which was designed to mimic intracellular K+ composition. This procedure virtually eliminated the resistance and electromotive force of the apical membrane. Shunt resistance was calculated by two independent methods based on microelectrode and transepithelial measurements. Both methods produced similar results (Rs = 691 +/- 63 omega cm2 and 770 +/- 247 omega cm2, respectively). These findings indicate that the shunt has no significant selectivity, contrary to previous reports. Native apical membrane resistance was estimated as 705 +/- 123 V cm2 and basolateral membrane resistance was 95 +/- 14 V cm2. To estimate basolateral membrane selectivity, the serosa was bathed in a NaCl Ringer's solution followed by a series of changes in which all or part of the Na+ was replaced by equimolar amounts of K+. From measures of bi-ionic potentials and conductance during these replacements, we calculated potassium permeability and selectivity ratios for the nystatin-treated colon by fitting these results to the constant field equations. By correcting for shunt conductance, it was then possible to estimate the selective permeability of the basolateral membrane alone. Selectivity estimates were as follows: PNa/PK = .08 and PCl/ PK = .07 (uncorrected for shunt) and PNa/PK = .04 and PCl/PK = .06 (basolateral membrane alone). In a second set of experiments, evidence for an electrogenic Na+ pump in the basolateral membrane is presented. A small ouabain-sensitive potential could be generated in the nystatin-treated colon in the absence of chemical or electrical gradients by mucosal, but not serosal, addition of NaCl. We conclude that this electrogenic pump may contribute to the basolateral membrane potential; however, the primary source of this potential is \"passive\": specifically, a potassium gradient which is maintained by an \"active\" transport process. An appendix compares the results of nystatin experiments to amiloride experiments which were conducted separately on the same tissues. The purpose of this comparison was to develop a comprehensive model of colonic transport. The analysis reveals a leak conductance in the apical membrane and the presence of an amiloride-insensitive conductance pathway.", "PMID": 448728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8773", "title": "Interaction of tritium-labeled H2DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyano-1,2,diphenyl ethane-2,2'disulfonic acid) with the Ehrlich mouse ascites tumor cell.", "content": "The experiments reported in this paper were undertaken to explore the interaction of tritiated H2DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyano-1,2,diphenyl ethane-2,2'-disulfonic acid) with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. Addition of (3H)H2DIDS to tumor cell suspension at 21 degrees C, pH 7.3, resulted in: (i) rapid reversible binding which increased with time and (ii) inhibition of sulfate transport. Tightly bound H2DIDS i.e., reagent not removed by cell washing, also increased with time. Binding of 0.02 nmol H2DIDS/mg dry mass or less did not affect sulfate transport, but, at greater than 0.02 nmol and up to 0.15 nmol the relationship between tight binding and inhibition of transport is linear. The fact that H2DIDS could bind to the cell and yet not affect anion transport suggests that binding sites exist unrelated to those concerned with the regulation of anion permeability. Support for this is the observation that H2DIDS is spontaneously released from cells even after extensive washings by a temperature-sensitive process. The most important source of released H2DIDS is the cell surface coat which labels rapidly (within 1 min) and is then spontaneously released into the medium. A second source is derived from H2DIDS that slowly entered the cells. Consequently, at least four modes of interaction exist between H2DIDS and ascites tumor cells. These include both reversible and irreversible binding to membrane components which regulate anion permeability, irreversible binding to cell surface proteins or glycocalyx, and finally incorporation of H2DIDS into the intracellular phase.", "contents": "Interaction of tritium-labeled H2DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyano-1,2,diphenyl ethane-2,2'disulfonic acid) with the Ehrlich mouse ascites tumor cell. The experiments reported in this paper were undertaken to explore the interaction of tritiated H2DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyano-1,2,diphenyl ethane-2,2'-disulfonic acid) with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. Addition of (3H)H2DIDS to tumor cell suspension at 21 degrees C, pH 7.3, resulted in: (i) rapid reversible binding which increased with time and (ii) inhibition of sulfate transport. Tightly bound H2DIDS i.e., reagent not removed by cell washing, also increased with time. Binding of 0.02 nmol H2DIDS/mg dry mass or less did not affect sulfate transport, but, at greater than 0.02 nmol and up to 0.15 nmol the relationship between tight binding and inhibition of transport is linear. The fact that H2DIDS could bind to the cell and yet not affect anion transport suggests that binding sites exist unrelated to those concerned with the regulation of anion permeability. Support for this is the observation that H2DIDS is spontaneously released from cells even after extensive washings by a temperature-sensitive process. The most important source of released H2DIDS is the cell surface coat which labels rapidly (within 1 min) and is then spontaneously released into the medium. A second source is derived from H2DIDS that slowly entered the cells. Consequently, at least four modes of interaction exist between H2DIDS and ascites tumor cells. These include both reversible and irreversible binding to membrane components which regulate anion permeability, irreversible binding to cell surface proteins or glycocalyx, and finally incorporation of H2DIDS into the intracellular phase.", "PMID": 448727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8774", "title": "Inhibitory and stimulatory effects of amiloride analogues on sodium transport in frog skin.", "content": "Effects of amiloride analogues on Na transport were studied in isolated skins of the frog Rana ridibunda. The pattern of structure-activity relationship of these compounds showed that both the -NH2 group at position 5 and Cl at position 6 of the pyrazine ring of the amiloride molecule were important for their biological activity. The paramount role of the groups at position 5 was further demonstrated by the striking properties of an analogue resulting from dimethylation of that -NH2 group. A stimulation of Na transport, opposite to the effect of amiloride itself, was observed in this instance. The increase in Na transport could already be seen at 10(-6) M and was equivalent to the measured increase in Na influx, reversible, dose-dependent, and additive to the natriferic action of oxytocin. Such characteristics resemble those reported with \"external\" agents like propranolol and La3+. Furthermore, mutual inhibition was observed between the stimulatory effects of this analogue and those of propranolol or La3+. These results suggest that the analogue may be considered as another \"external\" agent acting at sites of the external membrane distinct from those activated by cAMP but similar to the Ca sites described by Herrera and Curran (Herrera, F.C., Curran, P.F. 1963. J. Gen. Physiol. 46:999).", "contents": "Inhibitory and stimulatory effects of amiloride analogues on sodium transport in frog skin. Effects of amiloride analogues on Na transport were studied in isolated skins of the frog Rana ridibunda. The pattern of structure-activity relationship of these compounds showed that both the -NH2 group at position 5 and Cl at position 6 of the pyrazine ring of the amiloride molecule were important for their biological activity. The paramount role of the groups at position 5 was further demonstrated by the striking properties of an analogue resulting from dimethylation of that -NH2 group. A stimulation of Na transport, opposite to the effect of amiloride itself, was observed in this instance. The increase in Na transport could already be seen at 10(-6) M and was equivalent to the measured increase in Na influx, reversible, dose-dependent, and additive to the natriferic action of oxytocin. Such characteristics resemble those reported with \"external\" agents like propranolol and La3+. Furthermore, mutual inhibition was observed between the stimulatory effects of this analogue and those of propranolol or La3+. These results suggest that the analogue may be considered as another \"external\" agent acting at sites of the external membrane distinct from those activated by cAMP but similar to the Ca sites described by Herrera and Curran (Herrera, F.C., Curran, P.F. 1963. J. Gen. Physiol. 46:999).", "PMID": 448731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8775", "title": "Capacitance and conductance as tools for the measurement of asymmetric surface potentials and energy barriers of lipid bilayer membranes.", "content": "A simple method for determination of asymmetric surface potentials in lipid bilayers is described. The method is based on the dependence of bilayer capacitance on transmembrane voltage. The capacitance is measured by rectifying in 90 degrees component of an applied alternating current signal. A superimposed slow triangular wave results in a hysteresis-like time course of capacitance. The center of the hysteresis figure is shifted along the voltage axis by an amount equal to the difference of the dipole plus surface-charge potentials on the two sides of the bilayer (capacitance minimization potential). Alternatively, such bilayer asymmetry was studied by using the current-voltage characteristics in the presence of nonactin as a carrier. This analysis was based on the integrated Nernst-Planck equation, assuming a trapezoidal energy barrier and equilibrium of the surface reactions. The two methods gave consistent results for the surface potentials of phosphatidyl serine membranes asymmetrically shielded with calcium. In addition, the current analysis yields the positions of the corners of the barrier, found to be set in 13% for this lipid.", "contents": "Capacitance and conductance as tools for the measurement of asymmetric surface potentials and energy barriers of lipid bilayer membranes. A simple method for determination of asymmetric surface potentials in lipid bilayers is described. The method is based on the dependence of bilayer capacitance on transmembrane voltage. The capacitance is measured by rectifying in 90 degrees component of an applied alternating current signal. A superimposed slow triangular wave results in a hysteresis-like time course of capacitance. The center of the hysteresis figure is shifted along the voltage axis by an amount equal to the difference of the dipole plus surface-charge potentials on the two sides of the bilayer (capacitance minimization potential). Alternatively, such bilayer asymmetry was studied by using the current-voltage characteristics in the presence of nonactin as a carrier. This analysis was based on the integrated Nernst-Planck equation, assuming a trapezoidal energy barrier and equilibrium of the surface reactions. The two methods gave consistent results for the surface potentials of phosphatidyl serine membranes asymmetrically shielded with calcium. In addition, the current analysis yields the positions of the corners of the barrier, found to be set in 13% for this lipid.", "PMID": 448730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8776", "title": "Evolution of the differential regulation of duplicate genes after polyploidization.", "content": "In the 50 million years since the polyploidization event that gave rise to the catostomid family of fishes the duplicate genes encoding isozymes have undergone different fates. Ample opportunity has been available for regulatory evolution of these duplicate genes. Approximately half the duplicate genes have lost their expressions during this time. Of the duplicate genes remaining, the majority have diverged to different extents in their expression within and among adult tissues. The pattern of divergence of duplicate gene expression is consistent with the accumulation of mutations at regulatory genes. The absence of a correlation of extent of divergence of gene expression with the level of genetic variability for isozymes at these loci is consistent with the view that the rates of regulatory gene and structural gene evolution are uncoupled. The magnitude of divergence of duplicate gene expressions varies among tissues, enzymes, and species. Little correlation was found with the extent of divergence of duplicate gene expression within a species and its degree of morphological \"conservatism\", although species pairs which are increasingly taxonomically distant are less likely to share specific patterns of differential gene expression. Probable phylogenetic times of origin of several patterns of differential gene expression have been proposed. Some patterns of differential gene expression have evolved in recent evolutionary times and are specific to one or a few species, whereas at least one pattern of differential gene expression is present in nearly all species and probably arose soon after the polyploidization event. Multilocus isozymes, formed by polyploidization, provide a useful model system for studying the forces responsible for the maintenance of duplicate genes and the evolution of these once identical genes to new spatially and temporally specific patterns of regulation.", "contents": "Evolution of the differential regulation of duplicate genes after polyploidization. In the 50 million years since the polyploidization event that gave rise to the catostomid family of fishes the duplicate genes encoding isozymes have undergone different fates. Ample opportunity has been available for regulatory evolution of these duplicate genes. Approximately half the duplicate genes have lost their expressions during this time. Of the duplicate genes remaining, the majority have diverged to different extents in their expression within and among adult tissues. The pattern of divergence of duplicate gene expression is consistent with the accumulation of mutations at regulatory genes. The absence of a correlation of extent of divergence of gene expression with the level of genetic variability for isozymes at these loci is consistent with the view that the rates of regulatory gene and structural gene evolution are uncoupled. The magnitude of divergence of duplicate gene expressions varies among tissues, enzymes, and species. Little correlation was found with the extent of divergence of duplicate gene expression within a species and its degree of morphological \"conservatism\", although species pairs which are increasingly taxonomically distant are less likely to share specific patterns of differential gene expression. Probable phylogenetic times of origin of several patterns of differential gene expression have been proposed. Some patterns of differential gene expression have evolved in recent evolutionary times and are specific to one or a few species, whereas at least one pattern of differential gene expression is present in nearly all species and probably arose soon after the polyploidization event. Multilocus isozymes, formed by polyploidization, provide a useful model system for studying the forces responsible for the maintenance of duplicate genes and the evolution of these once identical genes to new spatially and temporally specific patterns of regulation.", "PMID": 448746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8777", "title": "Effect of changes in population size on the correlation between mutation rate and heterozygosity.", "content": "The effect of changes in population size on the correlation between mutation rate and heterozygosity was studied by using two models: sudden change in population size and gradual change. It was shown that the results for the two models are close to each other, unless the rate of change for the latter is exceedingly slow. Thus, in many cases, the former model, which is much simpler than the latter, can be used to treat the present problem. Numerical computations showed that the correlation in a population that is expanding or has expanded in the recent past is stronger while the correlation in a population that is decreasing or has experienced a population reduction or bottleneck in the recent past is weaker than that for an equilibrium population with the same mean heterozygosity. However, regardless of whether the population is at equilibrium or not, the proportion of variation in heterozygosity that is attributable to variation in molecular weight over loci is rather small if the mean heterozygosity of the population is low, say of the order 0.05 or smaller.", "contents": "Effect of changes in population size on the correlation between mutation rate and heterozygosity. The effect of changes in population size on the correlation between mutation rate and heterozygosity was studied by using two models: sudden change in population size and gradual change. It was shown that the results for the two models are close to each other, unless the rate of change for the latter is exceedingly slow. Thus, in many cases, the former model, which is much simpler than the latter, can be used to treat the present problem. Numerical computations showed that the correlation in a population that is expanding or has expanded in the recent past is stronger while the correlation in a population that is decreasing or has experienced a population reduction or bottleneck in the recent past is weaker than that for an equilibrium population with the same mean heterozygosity. However, regardless of whether the population is at equilibrium or not, the proportion of variation in heterozygosity that is attributable to variation in molecular weight over loci is rather small if the mean heterozygosity of the population is low, say of the order 0.05 or smaller.", "PMID": 448747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8778", "title": "Energetics of peptide bond formation at elevated temperatures.", "content": "The free energies of formation of the peptide bond between carbobenzoxy-glycine and L-phenylalanine amide in aqueous solution at temperatures up to 60 degree C were calculated from experimentally determined equilibrium constants. The reaction was catalyzed by a thermophylic enzyme. The thermodynamic energy barrier to peptide bond formation was found to decrease with increasing temperature: the standard free energy of peptide bond formation did appear to become negative in the region of 60 degrees C. The possible significance of these results for peptide bond formation under prebiotic conditions is discussed.", "contents": "Energetics of peptide bond formation at elevated temperatures. The free energies of formation of the peptide bond between carbobenzoxy-glycine and L-phenylalanine amide in aqueous solution at temperatures up to 60 degree C were calculated from experimentally determined equilibrium constants. The reaction was catalyzed by a thermophylic enzyme. The thermodynamic energy barrier to peptide bond formation was found to decrease with increasing temperature: the standard free energy of peptide bond formation did appear to become negative in the region of 60 degrees C. The possible significance of these results for peptide bond formation under prebiotic conditions is discussed.", "PMID": 448749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8779", "title": "The molecular heterogeneity and diversity of reptilian keratins.", "content": "Reptile keratins produce complex electrophoretic patterns, contain a number of size classes, and contain protein fractions analogous to the fractions found in other keratins. Thus, reptile keratins are similar to the heterogenous keratins of birds and mammals, and quite different from amphibian epidermal keratins. This heterogeneity may be related to the multiple functions performed by the epidermis of these organisms. The chemical diversity of reptile keratins seems to depend on the morphological differences between the tissues in which they occur. This situation is also found among these proteins in mammals and birds suggesting that keratin diversity is related to the morphological and presumably functional differentiation of epidermal tissues. The distribution of the keratin fractions in each tissue contributes to this diversity but the significance of these fractional differences is uncertain. A comparison of the half-cystine and glycine content of vertebrate alpha and \u00f8 keratins suggests that the alpha and \u00f8 proteins of reptiles may be related to the soft alpha keratins of mammals and amphibians. Mammalian hard keratins probably represent a uniquely derived group of proteins which are unlike the other vertebrate keratins. The presence of a \"high sulphur\" matrix component in both hard mammalian alpha and reptilian \u00f8 keratins may represent some form of molecular convergence which provides these distantly related proteins with similar physical or organizational properties.", "contents": "The molecular heterogeneity and diversity of reptilian keratins. Reptile keratins produce complex electrophoretic patterns, contain a number of size classes, and contain protein fractions analogous to the fractions found in other keratins. Thus, reptile keratins are similar to the heterogenous keratins of birds and mammals, and quite different from amphibian epidermal keratins. This heterogeneity may be related to the multiple functions performed by the epidermis of these organisms. The chemical diversity of reptile keratins seems to depend on the morphological differences between the tissues in which they occur. This situation is also found among these proteins in mammals and birds suggesting that keratin diversity is related to the morphological and presumably functional differentiation of epidermal tissues. The distribution of the keratin fractions in each tissue contributes to this diversity but the significance of these fractional differences is uncertain. A comparison of the half-cystine and glycine content of vertebrate alpha and \u00f8 keratins suggests that the alpha and \u00f8 proteins of reptiles may be related to the soft alpha keratins of mammals and amphibians. Mammalian hard keratins probably represent a uniquely derived group of proteins which are unlike the other vertebrate keratins. The presence of a \"high sulphur\" matrix component in both hard mammalian alpha and reptilian \u00f8 keratins may represent some form of molecular convergence which provides these distantly related proteins with similar physical or organizational properties.", "PMID": 448748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8780", "title": "The catalysis of nucleotide polymerization by compounds of divalent lead.", "content": "Soluble lead salts and a number of lead-containing minerals catalyze the formation of oligonucleotides from nucleoside 5'-phosphorimidazolides. The effectiveness of lead compounds correlates strongly with their solubility. Under optimal conditions we were able to obtain 18% of pentamer and higher oligomers from ImpA. Reactions involving ImpU gave smaller yields.", "contents": "The catalysis of nucleotide polymerization by compounds of divalent lead. Soluble lead salts and a number of lead-containing minerals catalyze the formation of oligonucleotides from nucleoside 5'-phosphorimidazolides. The effectiveness of lead compounds correlates strongly with their solubility. Under optimal conditions we were able to obtain 18% of pentamer and higher oligomers from ImpA. Reactions involving ImpU gave smaller yields.", "PMID": 448750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8781", "title": "Surgical immunology: a historical review of its role in the armamentarium of the surgical oncologist.", "content": "Immunology is taking its place in multimodality therapy of malignant diseases-currently an adjuvant role. Historical development of this role and definition of terms and principles are herein presented in brief fashion.", "contents": "Surgical immunology: a historical review of its role in the armamentarium of the surgical oncologist. Immunology is taking its place in multimodality therapy of malignant diseases-currently an adjuvant role. Historical development of this role and definition of terms and principles are herein presented in brief fashion.", "PMID": 448752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8782", "title": "Surgical management of radiation enteritis.", "content": "In the great majority of patients treated with radiation, only transitory injury to the bowel occurs, but in five percent of patients, permanent damage to the small bowel or rectum is seen. Symptoms of radiation enteropathy may begin four to six months after the treatment is completed or may not present until several years later. Most often, the patient presents with abdominal pain, diarrhea, hematochezia, and signs of malnutrition. Others may present, initially, with intestinal obstruction, perforation, or fistulization. It is important to differentiate this clinical syndrome from recurrent cancer by appropriate radiological studies and biopsies.This paper presents four patients who were treated with radiation for invasive carcinoma of the cervix and subsequently developed radiation enteritis. All were treated surgically and are surviving.", "contents": "Surgical management of radiation enteritis. In the great majority of patients treated with radiation, only transitory injury to the bowel occurs, but in five percent of patients, permanent damage to the small bowel or rectum is seen. Symptoms of radiation enteropathy may begin four to six months after the treatment is completed or may not present until several years later. Most often, the patient presents with abdominal pain, diarrhea, hematochezia, and signs of malnutrition. Others may present, initially, with intestinal obstruction, perforation, or fistulization. It is important to differentiate this clinical syndrome from recurrent cancer by appropriate radiological studies and biopsies.This paper presents four patients who were treated with radiation for invasive carcinoma of the cervix and subsequently developed radiation enteritis. All were treated surgically and are surviving.", "PMID": 448753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8783", "title": "Surgical management in sicklemia.", "content": "A review of the history and pathophysiology of sickle cell disease is given. The clinical types (crises) are discussed along with their relationship to surgical occurrences, both elective and emergency. Specifics of perioperative management are discussed and the cardinal features of importance are enumerated. A retrospective study of sickle cell disease in a community hospital is presented, outlining the surgical experience over a ten-year period.", "contents": "Surgical management in sicklemia. A review of the history and pathophysiology of sickle cell disease is given. The clinical types (crises) are discussed along with their relationship to surgical occurrences, both elective and emergency. Specifics of perioperative management are discussed and the cardinal features of importance are enumerated. A retrospective study of sickle cell disease in a community hospital is presented, outlining the surgical experience over a ten-year period.", "PMID": 448754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8784", "title": "Traumatic diaphragmatic hernias: analysis of six cases.", "content": "During three years, from January 1975 through December 1977, the authors saw six cases of traumatic left diaphragmatic hernias, all of whom survived. All were males aged 17 to 56 years, with an average age of 30 years. Four (67 percent) of the cases resulted from blunt abdominal trauma while two (33 percent) were due to stab wounds of the left lower chest. Admitting chest x-ray findings were diagnostic for all acute hernias due to blunt trauma and for all hernias presenting with a delayed interval. Digital exploration of all penetrating lower chest wounds is recommended by some authors if exploratory laparotomy is not contemplated. Our preferred approach for the repair of the hernias includes (1) laparotomy for all acute cases, (2) thoracotomy for delayed cases, and (3) separate abdominal thoracic incisions whenever a combined approach is considered necessary. The repair should be carried out in two layers with nonabsorbable sutures.", "contents": "Traumatic diaphragmatic hernias: analysis of six cases. During three years, from January 1975 through December 1977, the authors saw six cases of traumatic left diaphragmatic hernias, all of whom survived. All were males aged 17 to 56 years, with an average age of 30 years. Four (67 percent) of the cases resulted from blunt abdominal trauma while two (33 percent) were due to stab wounds of the left lower chest. Admitting chest x-ray findings were diagnostic for all acute hernias due to blunt trauma and for all hernias presenting with a delayed interval. Digital exploration of all penetrating lower chest wounds is recommended by some authors if exploratory laparotomy is not contemplated. Our preferred approach for the repair of the hernias includes (1) laparotomy for all acute cases, (2) thoracotomy for delayed cases, and (3) separate abdominal thoracic incisions whenever a combined approach is considered necessary. The repair should be carried out in two layers with nonabsorbable sutures.", "PMID": 448755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8785", "title": "Rupture of cervical esophagus from blunt trauma with concomitant fracture dislocation of C4-C5 vertebrae.", "content": "A patient is presented who had sustained a high posterior cervical esophageal laceration (secondary to an automobile accident) with concomitant fracture of the C(4) - C(5) spine. It was treated by Gulbrandson conversional method. To the author's knowledge, this represents the first recorded rupture of the cervical esophagus associated with high cord lesions as a result of blunt trauma to the neck.", "contents": "Rupture of cervical esophagus from blunt trauma with concomitant fracture dislocation of C4-C5 vertebrae. A patient is presented who had sustained a high posterior cervical esophageal laceration (secondary to an automobile accident) with concomitant fracture of the C(4) - C(5) spine. It was treated by Gulbrandson conversional method. To the author's knowledge, this represents the first recorded rupture of the cervical esophagus associated with high cord lesions as a result of blunt trauma to the neck.", "PMID": 448756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8786", "title": "Moyamoya disease in black adults.", "content": "A 40-year-old hypertensive black female, who suddenly developed aphasia, lethargy, and a right hemiparesis, and a 42-year-old non-hypertensive black male, who suddenly developed intractable headache, drowsiness, and vomiting, were found by angiography to have moyamoya disease. This condition is characterized by a decreased caliber of the internal carotid arteries and bilateral occlusion of the anterior and middle cerebral arteries with visualization of an extensive collateral network of tortuous blood vessels of the rete mirabile type at the base of the brain.", "contents": "Moyamoya disease in black adults. A 40-year-old hypertensive black female, who suddenly developed aphasia, lethargy, and a right hemiparesis, and a 42-year-old non-hypertensive black male, who suddenly developed intractable headache, drowsiness, and vomiting, were found by angiography to have moyamoya disease. This condition is characterized by a decreased caliber of the internal carotid arteries and bilateral occlusion of the anterior and middle cerebral arteries with visualization of an extensive collateral network of tortuous blood vessels of the rete mirabile type at the base of the brain.", "PMID": 448757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8787", "title": "Colorectal carcinoma: a review of the experiences at Hubbard Hospital.", "content": "The records of 112 patients treated for carcinoma of the colon at Hubbard Hospital between 1956 and 1971 were reviewed. The mean age was 64.4 years and 64.9 percent were females. Only 27 percent presented with Duke's A lesions. The delay in seeking medical therapy averaged 4.48 months from onset of symptoms. Most patients presented with complications of their disease and the majority had other concurrent diseases which contributed significantly to the poor overall five-year survival figures.", "contents": "Colorectal carcinoma: a review of the experiences at Hubbard Hospital. The records of 112 patients treated for carcinoma of the colon at Hubbard Hospital between 1956 and 1971 were reviewed. The mean age was 64.4 years and 64.9 percent were females. Only 27 percent presented with Duke's A lesions. The delay in seeking medical therapy averaged 4.48 months from onset of symptoms. Most patients presented with complications of their disease and the majority had other concurrent diseases which contributed significantly to the poor overall five-year survival figures.", "PMID": 448759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8788", "title": "Management of tuberculous pneumothorax in Nigeria.", "content": "Forty-eight patients with tuberculous pneumothorax treated at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria, over a 40-month period were reviewed. This represents 90 percent of all patients admitted with nontraumatic \"spontaneous\" pneumothorax during the period of survey. This finding shows that pulmonary tuberculosis (still endemic in Nigeria) is the most common cause of spontaneous pneumothorax in Ibadan.Because of delay in presentation, over 70 percent of the patients presented with hydropneumothorax or pyopneumothorax, which tend to prolong the length of intubation days and the period of hospitalization. The most significant factors affecting prognosis are nutritional status of the patient, extent of parenchymal damage, severity of the bronchopleural fistula, and presence of empyema.The goal of therapy had been directed toward prompt intercostal tube drainage, complete evacuation of fluid and pus, improvement in the nutritional status of the patient, and effective chemotherapy. With this approach, open thoracotomy was rarely indicated and decortication was only necessary in five patients. Our results with intercostal tube drainage and chemotherapy alone have been very encouraging.", "contents": "Management of tuberculous pneumothorax in Nigeria. Forty-eight patients with tuberculous pneumothorax treated at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria, over a 40-month period were reviewed. This represents 90 percent of all patients admitted with nontraumatic \"spontaneous\" pneumothorax during the period of survey. This finding shows that pulmonary tuberculosis (still endemic in Nigeria) is the most common cause of spontaneous pneumothorax in Ibadan.Because of delay in presentation, over 70 percent of the patients presented with hydropneumothorax or pyopneumothorax, which tend to prolong the length of intubation days and the period of hospitalization. The most significant factors affecting prognosis are nutritional status of the patient, extent of parenchymal damage, severity of the bronchopleural fistula, and presence of empyema.The goal of therapy had been directed toward prompt intercostal tube drainage, complete evacuation of fluid and pus, improvement in the nutritional status of the patient, and effective chemotherapy. With this approach, open thoracotomy was rarely indicated and decortication was only necessary in five patients. Our results with intercostal tube drainage and chemotherapy alone have been very encouraging.", "PMID": 448758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8789", "title": "Transitional cloacogenic carcinoma of the anus and rectum: report of three cases.", "content": "Transitional cloacogenic carcinoma of the anus is one of the rarest tumors of the alimentary tract. It represents less than two percent of all anorectal cancers. Three cases are presented from the surgical files of George W. Hubbard Hospital, Meharry Medical College, which were collected during a period of 15 years.", "contents": "Transitional cloacogenic carcinoma of the anus and rectum: report of three cases. Transitional cloacogenic carcinoma of the anus is one of the rarest tumors of the alimentary tract. It represents less than two percent of all anorectal cancers. Three cases are presented from the surgical files of George W. Hubbard Hospital, Meharry Medical College, which were collected during a period of 15 years.", "PMID": 448760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8790", "title": "Cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas.", "content": "Cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas of the pancreas are rare, with few cases encountered by any one surgeon or institution. Cystadenomas account for less than ten percent of all cystic lesions of the pancreas with less than 300 examples reported in the literature. Cystadenocarcinomas represent one percent of all pancreatic cancers with very few cases reported.This report is a presentation of a 48-year-old black female who was treated at Meharry Medical College for cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas, and is followed by a review of the world literature.", "contents": "Cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas of the pancreas are rare, with few cases encountered by any one surgeon or institution. Cystadenomas account for less than ten percent of all cystic lesions of the pancreas with less than 300 examples reported in the literature. Cystadenocarcinomas represent one percent of all pancreatic cancers with very few cases reported.This report is a presentation of a 48-year-old black female who was treated at Meharry Medical College for cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas, and is followed by a review of the world literature.", "PMID": 448761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8791", "title": "Retained surgical sponge simulating a pancreatic mass.", "content": "An abdominal mass evaluated angiographically suggested either a carcinoma or a pseudocyst of the pancreas. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a cystic mass containing a surgical sponge left in the patient's abdomen during a surgical procedure 12 years previously. A review of the literature is included and complications caused by surgical foreign bodies and means of avoiding such complications are discussed.", "contents": "Retained surgical sponge simulating a pancreatic mass. An abdominal mass evaluated angiographically suggested either a carcinoma or a pseudocyst of the pancreas. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a cystic mass containing a surgical sponge left in the patient's abdomen during a surgical procedure 12 years previously. A review of the literature is included and complications caused by surgical foreign bodies and means of avoiding such complications are discussed.", "PMID": 448762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8792", "title": "Duodenum inversum.", "content": "Duodenum inversum is usually associated with chronic abdominal pain which is of unknown etiology. Incomplete rotation of the bowel may be associated with this anomaly. An unusually high incidence of pancreatitis, elevated bilirubin, and hypoalbuminemia was noted in this series of nine patients.", "contents": "Duodenum inversum. Duodenum inversum is usually associated with chronic abdominal pain which is of unknown etiology. Incomplete rotation of the bowel may be associated with this anomaly. An unusually high incidence of pancreatitis, elevated bilirubin, and hypoalbuminemia was noted in this series of nine patients.", "PMID": 448763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8793", "title": "Cardiopulmonary parameters and prognosis after severe multiple trauma.", "content": "Comprehensive cardiopulmonary and metabolic monitoring of severely traumatized patients for 7 days from the time of injury has allowed us to determine parematers which correlate with survival and nonsurvival. The earliest and most persistent change is an increased pulmonary vascular resistance which results in right heart overload and failure. Left heart \"failure\" which has been previously described with acute respiratory failure and shock is shown to be a mathematical artifact caused by dilatation of the right heart and encroachment on left ventricular filling volume. Causes of death in most patients were not directly referable to right heart dysfunction but we postulate that hypercoagulability and microembolism could independently produce the observed pulmonary vascular changes as well as the multiple organ failure which usually was responsible for death. Resolution of this question will require more sophisticated hematologic evaluation.", "contents": "Cardiopulmonary parameters and prognosis after severe multiple trauma. Comprehensive cardiopulmonary and metabolic monitoring of severely traumatized patients for 7 days from the time of injury has allowed us to determine parematers which correlate with survival and nonsurvival. The earliest and most persistent change is an increased pulmonary vascular resistance which results in right heart overload and failure. Left heart \"failure\" which has been previously described with acute respiratory failure and shock is shown to be a mathematical artifact caused by dilatation of the right heart and encroachment on left ventricular filling volume. Causes of death in most patients were not directly referable to right heart dysfunction but we postulate that hypercoagulability and microembolism could independently produce the observed pulmonary vascular changes as well as the multiple organ failure which usually was responsible for death. Resolution of this question will require more sophisticated hematologic evaluation.", "PMID": 448765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8794", "title": "Selective hepatic artery ligation: limitations and failures.", "content": "The hospital records of 540 consecutive patients with hepatic trauma were reviewed. Persistent arterial bleeding from hepatic wounds was encountered in approximately 10% of severe liver injuries. Compression of the porta hepatis will result in cessation of bleeding in such patients and subsequent ligature of the appropriate lobar artery will provide permanent, safe control of bleeding. Failures of selective hepatic artery ligation commonly result from incomplete diagnosis of the extent of injury to portal veins and hepatic veins.", "contents": "Selective hepatic artery ligation: limitations and failures. The hospital records of 540 consecutive patients with hepatic trauma were reviewed. Persistent arterial bleeding from hepatic wounds was encountered in approximately 10% of severe liver injuries. Compression of the porta hepatis will result in cessation of bleeding in such patients and subsequent ligature of the appropriate lobar artery will provide permanent, safe control of bleeding. Failures of selective hepatic artery ligation commonly result from incomplete diagnosis of the extent of injury to portal veins and hepatic veins.", "PMID": 448766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8795", "title": "Recurrent themes in ambulance critique review sessions over eight years.", "content": "For 8 years biweekly ambulance critique review sessions have evaluated performance and discussed management of cases brought to our hospital by ambulance. Over 500 cases reviewed have centered primarily on evaluation and care at the scene and its possible relation to outcome. Problems which have recurred on the scene include whether the patient would have benefited from less time in stabilization and immobilization; manipulation of deformed fractures for splinting; use of tourniquets; techniques of airway maintenance; and management of infrequently seen problems such as hypothermia and drowning. Interaction problems with physicians on the scene and in the Emergency Room (ER) come from questioning physician authority even without specific knowledge of the appropriate techniques of emergency care. A related problem is lack of ER staff familiarity with Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) procedures and ambulance equipment. The value of critique review sessions has been seen in improved rapport and interaction among ER staff and ambulance personnel. Improved outcome needs to be assessed in a carefully controlled study. The enthusiasm and attendance of ER staff and ambulance personnel has grown and endured over 8 years. The review sessions have spread to other area hospitals with some success.", "contents": "Recurrent themes in ambulance critique review sessions over eight years. For 8 years biweekly ambulance critique review sessions have evaluated performance and discussed management of cases brought to our hospital by ambulance. Over 500 cases reviewed have centered primarily on evaluation and care at the scene and its possible relation to outcome. Problems which have recurred on the scene include whether the patient would have benefited from less time in stabilization and immobilization; manipulation of deformed fractures for splinting; use of tourniquets; techniques of airway maintenance; and management of infrequently seen problems such as hypothermia and drowning. Interaction problems with physicians on the scene and in the Emergency Room (ER) come from questioning physician authority even without specific knowledge of the appropriate techniques of emergency care. A related problem is lack of ER staff familiarity with Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) procedures and ambulance equipment. The value of critique review sessions has been seen in improved rapport and interaction among ER staff and ambulance personnel. Improved outcome needs to be assessed in a carefully controlled study. The enthusiasm and attendance of ER staff and ambulance personnel has grown and endured over 8 years. The review sessions have spread to other area hospitals with some success.", "PMID": 448767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8796", "title": "Value of \"inconclusive lavage\" in abdominal trauma management.", "content": "Peritoneal lavage is an invaluable adjunct in the evaluation of abdominal trauma. Of 780 abdominal trauma patients in a prospective study, 685 underwent percutaneous peritoneal lavage. RBC counts in the effluent above 50,000/mm3 corresponded well with findings at exploration; however, two thirds of the patients having counts between 20,000--50,000/mm3 had serious injury at celiotomy. The data suggest the need for a reappraisal of lavage criteria for operation.", "contents": "Value of \"inconclusive lavage\" in abdominal trauma management. Peritoneal lavage is an invaluable adjunct in the evaluation of abdominal trauma. Of 780 abdominal trauma patients in a prospective study, 685 underwent percutaneous peritoneal lavage. RBC counts in the effluent above 50,000/mm3 corresponded well with findings at exploration; however, two thirds of the patients having counts between 20,000--50,000/mm3 had serious injury at celiotomy. The data suggest the need for a reappraisal of lavage criteria for operation.", "PMID": 448768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8797", "title": "Management of duodenal wounds.", "content": "A 30-year experience with 321 wounds of the duodenum was reviewed. Of the total, 302 had some form of perforation; 19 had intramural hematomas. All patients underwent laparotomy shortly after admission except six cases of radiographically diagnosed submucosal hematoma. Occasional dehiscence of the duodenal suture line and its life-threatening complications (six of 52 cases, or 12%) led to a policy of routine duodenal decompression by gastrostomy plus twin jejunostomies in 1962. Following use of the latter technique in 237 patients, only one leak occurred. By contrast, failure to decompress had an 8% leak rate; direct drainage of the suture line gave an even greater incidence of dehiscence or fistula, 23%. Associated pancreatic injuries were treated as separate wounds by sump drainage of distal pancreatectomy. None of three patients subjected to pancraticoduodenectomy for massive combined pancreatic and duodenal trauma survived. A long-armed T-tube was always inserted for recognized as well as suspected common duct wounds. Although most of the 41 deaths were due to major vascular trauma and sequelae of hemorrhagic shock, duodenal complications did contribute to significant morbidity and five mortalities during the earlier years of review.", "contents": "Management of duodenal wounds. A 30-year experience with 321 wounds of the duodenum was reviewed. Of the total, 302 had some form of perforation; 19 had intramural hematomas. All patients underwent laparotomy shortly after admission except six cases of radiographically diagnosed submucosal hematoma. Occasional dehiscence of the duodenal suture line and its life-threatening complications (six of 52 cases, or 12%) led to a policy of routine duodenal decompression by gastrostomy plus twin jejunostomies in 1962. Following use of the latter technique in 237 patients, only one leak occurred. By contrast, failure to decompress had an 8% leak rate; direct drainage of the suture line gave an even greater incidence of dehiscence or fistula, 23%. Associated pancreatic injuries were treated as separate wounds by sump drainage of distal pancreatectomy. None of three patients subjected to pancraticoduodenectomy for massive combined pancreatic and duodenal trauma survived. A long-armed T-tube was always inserted for recognized as well as suspected common duct wounds. Although most of the 41 deaths were due to major vascular trauma and sequelae of hemorrhagic shock, duodenal complications did contribute to significant morbidity and five mortalities during the earlier years of review.", "PMID": 448769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8798", "title": "Combined pancreatoduodenal injuries.", "content": "Operative management of combined pancreatic and duodenal injuries has been a controversial subject in recent years. Methods advocated include resection, duodenal diversion, and simple repair and drainage. Excellent results have been reported with each of these, but most reported series are small, preventing definitive conclusions concerning the value of any treatment modality. During an 8-year period ending December 1976, 308 pancreatic injuries and 175 duodenal injuries were treated. Sixty-eight of the patients had combined pancreatic and duodenal injuries and constitute the basis for this report. Fifty-five patients sustained penetrating injuries and 13 had blunt injuries. Eighteen underwent repair and drainage. The remaining 50 required more extensive procedures which included duodenal diversion and pyloric exclusion in 32, pancreatoduodenectomy in six, and a variety of procedures in the remainder. The operative mortality rate was 26.4%, including five patients who died intraoperatively. In the entire series only one death was directly attributable to the pancreatoduodenal injury. We conclude that no single procedure is uniformly applicable to these injuries. Surgeons treating trauma of this severity should be familiar with a variety of techniques for repair, and treatment should be individualized. Preservation of tissue should be accomplished when possible.", "contents": "Combined pancreatoduodenal injuries. Operative management of combined pancreatic and duodenal injuries has been a controversial subject in recent years. Methods advocated include resection, duodenal diversion, and simple repair and drainage. Excellent results have been reported with each of these, but most reported series are small, preventing definitive conclusions concerning the value of any treatment modality. During an 8-year period ending December 1976, 308 pancreatic injuries and 175 duodenal injuries were treated. Sixty-eight of the patients had combined pancreatic and duodenal injuries and constitute the basis for this report. Fifty-five patients sustained penetrating injuries and 13 had blunt injuries. Eighteen underwent repair and drainage. The remaining 50 required more extensive procedures which included duodenal diversion and pyloric exclusion in 32, pancreatoduodenectomy in six, and a variety of procedures in the remainder. The operative mortality rate was 26.4%, including five patients who died intraoperatively. In the entire series only one death was directly attributable to the pancreatoduodenal injury. We conclude that no single procedure is uniformly applicable to these injuries. Surgeons treating trauma of this severity should be familiar with a variety of techniques for repair, and treatment should be individualized. Preservation of tissue should be accomplished when possible.", "PMID": 448770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8799", "title": "Brainstem auditory evoked responses in patients comatose as a result of blunt head trauma.", "content": "The brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) was evaluated as an aid in the early diagnosis and prognosis of 17 comatose blunt head-injury patients. Click stimuli (60 dBSL, 10/sec) were presented monaurally through headphones. BAER's were recorded between Cz and ipsilateral mastoid; contralateral mastoid ground. No BAER waves occurred in three \"brain-dead\" patients. Two patients with initially abnormal BAER's did not show improvement in followup recordings, and died of their brain injuries. Recovery occurred in 12 patients with normal followup BAER's, regardless of whether initial BAER's had been abnormal (three patients) or normal (nine patients). Apparently, initial BAER's (mean, 31 hours postinjury) can be abnormal as the result of reversible damage. Followup BAER's (3 to 6 days postinjury) did correspond with patient outcome at a time when clinical prognoses were often uncertain. BAER's aided diagnostically in determining the extent of brainstem damage and the effectiveness of treatment.", "contents": "Brainstem auditory evoked responses in patients comatose as a result of blunt head trauma. The brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) was evaluated as an aid in the early diagnosis and prognosis of 17 comatose blunt head-injury patients. Click stimuli (60 dBSL, 10/sec) were presented monaurally through headphones. BAER's were recorded between Cz and ipsilateral mastoid; contralateral mastoid ground. No BAER waves occurred in three \"brain-dead\" patients. Two patients with initially abnormal BAER's did not show improvement in followup recordings, and died of their brain injuries. Recovery occurred in 12 patients with normal followup BAER's, regardless of whether initial BAER's had been abnormal (three patients) or normal (nine patients). Apparently, initial BAER's (mean, 31 hours postinjury) can be abnormal as the result of reversible damage. Followup BAER's (3 to 6 days postinjury) did correspond with patient outcome at a time when clinical prognoses were often uncertain. BAER's aided diagnostically in determining the extent of brainstem damage and the effectiveness of treatment.", "PMID": 448771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8800", "title": "A review of the complications of burns, their origin and importance for illness and death.", "content": "Complications are the major causes of illness and death after burning and most of them stem from the burn wound. Their origin and importance are reviewed with emphasis on problems and growing points in knowledge. Fluid leakage from the circulation into the burn is the cause of hypovolemic shock, but the underlying permeability changes in the burn are only partly understood. Other nonbacterial complications include acute cardiac failure, acute anemia, hemolytic jaundice, renal failure, encephalopathy, complex hypermetabolic effects including pseudodiabetes, gastric and duodenal ulceration, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, pulmonary and glomerular microthrombosis, hepatic jaundice, and arterial thrombosis. Involvement of the airway in conflagrations carries special hazards like glottic edema and inhalation of irritant fumes. Nowadays, bacterial causes are dominant and these remain the main challenge. Bacterial infection and invasion of the burn are usually responsible for septicemia, bronchopneumonia, and pyelonephritis although other sources also contribute. Indirect manifestations of septicemia include paralytic ileus, acute gastric dilatation, toxic myocarditis, and some cases of renal failure. Therapeutic complications like agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and colitis occur at times. High concentrations of oxygen given therapeutically can produce fatal aseptic hypoxic pneumonitis.", "contents": "A review of the complications of burns, their origin and importance for illness and death. Complications are the major causes of illness and death after burning and most of them stem from the burn wound. Their origin and importance are reviewed with emphasis on problems and growing points in knowledge. Fluid leakage from the circulation into the burn is the cause of hypovolemic shock, but the underlying permeability changes in the burn are only partly understood. Other nonbacterial complications include acute cardiac failure, acute anemia, hemolytic jaundice, renal failure, encephalopathy, complex hypermetabolic effects including pseudodiabetes, gastric and duodenal ulceration, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, pulmonary and glomerular microthrombosis, hepatic jaundice, and arterial thrombosis. Involvement of the airway in conflagrations carries special hazards like glottic edema and inhalation of irritant fumes. Nowadays, bacterial causes are dominant and these remain the main challenge. Bacterial infection and invasion of the burn are usually responsible for septicemia, bronchopneumonia, and pyelonephritis although other sources also contribute. Indirect manifestations of septicemia include paralytic ileus, acute gastric dilatation, toxic myocarditis, and some cases of renal failure. Therapeutic complications like agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and colitis occur at times. High concentrations of oxygen given therapeutically can produce fatal aseptic hypoxic pneumonitis.", "PMID": 448773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8801", "title": "Cranio-orbito-facial injuries: technical suggestions.", "content": "Eight per cent of 387 acutely head-injured patients had concomitant orbitofacial injuries. Irrespective of the magnitude of brain injury, the main surgical goals in such cases treated were closure of CSF fistulas, maximizing recovery of eye movement, visual and masticatory function, and esthetic reconstruction. The strictly neurosurgical lesions should be dealt with at once because of the risk of intracranial infection. Antibiotic acrylic and antibiotic wax are valuable in such intervention. In most cases it is advantageous to treat lesions of the upper two thirds of the facial complex in the same operative session. For this reason neurosurgeons who do not have ready access to a maxillofacial specialist should be prepared to cope with the problems presented by orbitofacial injuries.", "contents": "Cranio-orbito-facial injuries: technical suggestions. Eight per cent of 387 acutely head-injured patients had concomitant orbitofacial injuries. Irrespective of the magnitude of brain injury, the main surgical goals in such cases treated were closure of CSF fistulas, maximizing recovery of eye movement, visual and masticatory function, and esthetic reconstruction. The strictly neurosurgical lesions should be dealt with at once because of the risk of intracranial infection. Antibiotic acrylic and antibiotic wax are valuable in such intervention. In most cases it is advantageous to treat lesions of the upper two thirds of the facial complex in the same operative session. For this reason neurosurgeons who do not have ready access to a maxillofacial specialist should be prepared to cope with the problems presented by orbitofacial injuries.", "PMID": 448774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8802", "title": "Exploration of low-velocity gunshot wounds of the neck.", "content": "Review of 68 consecutive patients seen between 1966 and 1976 with low-velocity gunshot wounds of the neck is reported. Treatment and results are compared. Comparison of preoperative evaluation and operative findings shows that the initial evaluation may miss serious injuries. Associated severe injuries are common. Morbidity following exploration is low. Exploration of all low-velocity gunshot wounds to the neck is recommended.", "contents": "Exploration of low-velocity gunshot wounds of the neck. Review of 68 consecutive patients seen between 1966 and 1976 with low-velocity gunshot wounds of the neck is reported. Treatment and results are compared. Comparison of preoperative evaluation and operative findings shows that the initial evaluation may miss serious injuries. Associated severe injuries are common. Morbidity following exploration is low. Exploration of all low-velocity gunshot wounds to the neck is recommended.", "PMID": 448776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8803", "title": "Arthrography as a method of diagnosing soft-tissue injuries of the wrist.", "content": "Wrist arthrography was performed in 30 patients suffering from post-traumatic wrist sprain, or whom 15 sustained fractures. A longstanding soft-tissue injury was demonstrated in 70% of the whole group and in 60% of wrist sprains not associated with fracture. Findings include radiocarpal-radionulnar communications (26.6%), radiocarpal-midcarpal communications (36.6%), midcarpal-carpometacarpal communications (30%), radiocarpal-pisotriquetral communications (60%), tendon communications (20%), and lymphatic filling (43.3%).", "contents": "Arthrography as a method of diagnosing soft-tissue injuries of the wrist. Wrist arthrography was performed in 30 patients suffering from post-traumatic wrist sprain, or whom 15 sustained fractures. A longstanding soft-tissue injury was demonstrated in 70% of the whole group and in 60% of wrist sprains not associated with fracture. Findings include radiocarpal-radionulnar communications (26.6%), radiocarpal-midcarpal communications (36.6%), midcarpal-carpometacarpal communications (30%), radiocarpal-pisotriquetral communications (60%), tendon communications (20%), and lymphatic filling (43.3%).", "PMID": 448775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8804", "title": "Routine angiographic evaluation of neck and extremity injuries.", "content": "Traumatic arterial injuries are becoming more common in civilian practice. In this study arteriography was done in 91 wounds of the neck and extremities regardless of physical findings (excluding exsanguinating or trivial injuries). Physical findings suggestive of the presence or absence of arterial injury were tabulated and compared with arteriographic findings. Physical findings were often found to be unreliable, yielding a false negative result in 20% and a false positive result in 42%. It is concluded that angiography is a safe, reliable method of diagnosis and should be routinely employed in all patients with major penetrating injuries of the neck and extremities as well as in selected patients with blunt injuries.", "contents": "Routine angiographic evaluation of neck and extremity injuries. Traumatic arterial injuries are becoming more common in civilian practice. In this study arteriography was done in 91 wounds of the neck and extremities regardless of physical findings (excluding exsanguinating or trivial injuries). Physical findings suggestive of the presence or absence of arterial injury were tabulated and compared with arteriographic findings. Physical findings were often found to be unreliable, yielding a false negative result in 20% and a false positive result in 42%. It is concluded that angiography is a safe, reliable method of diagnosis and should be routinely employed in all patients with major penetrating injuries of the neck and extremities as well as in selected patients with blunt injuries.", "PMID": 448777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8805", "title": "Evaluation and treatment of penetrating cervical injuries.", "content": "Because the serious nature of penetrating cervical injuries may not be readily apparent on initial evaluation, and since delay in treatment can result in serious complications, a systematic method of evaluation and routine exploration has been employed in treating these injuries. One hundred eighty-nine patients, 49 with gunshot wounds and 140 with stab wounds, were treated in this series. Arteriography was performed in 62 patients (33%) to detect vascular injuries and to aid in the planning of the operative approach in patients with high or low neck wounds. Arteriography was 98% accurate and changed the operative approach in 29% of the positive studies. Of the 154 explorations 72 were positive (47%). There were no deaths and only four complications in the group with negative explorations. The mortality rate for the series was 2.6%. We believe that angiography in selected patients and routine exploration of wounds penetrating the platysma can minimize morbidity and mortality in these injuries.", "contents": "Evaluation and treatment of penetrating cervical injuries. Because the serious nature of penetrating cervical injuries may not be readily apparent on initial evaluation, and since delay in treatment can result in serious complications, a systematic method of evaluation and routine exploration has been employed in treating these injuries. One hundred eighty-nine patients, 49 with gunshot wounds and 140 with stab wounds, were treated in this series. Arteriography was performed in 62 patients (33%) to detect vascular injuries and to aid in the planning of the operative approach in patients with high or low neck wounds. Arteriography was 98% accurate and changed the operative approach in 29% of the positive studies. Of the 154 explorations 72 were positive (47%). There were no deaths and only four complications in the group with negative explorations. The mortality rate for the series was 2.6%. We believe that angiography in selected patients and routine exploration of wounds penetrating the platysma can minimize morbidity and mortality in these injuries.", "PMID": 448778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8806", "title": "A photoplethysmographic technique for detecting vascular compromise: a preliminary report.", "content": "We have developed a photoplethysmographic technique for monitoring early signs of vascular compromise in extremities affected by direct vessel trauma, crushing trauma, or circumferential burns. The technique consists of positioning a small infrared emitter-detector array shielded from room light over a nailbed of the affected extremity and connecting the array to standard electronic monitoring equipment, thus producing a pulse tracing very similar in contour to an arterial pressure wave. In normal volunteers, simultaneous observations of the tracing and studies of muscle blood flow using Xe133 clearance showed correspondence of disappearance of the plethysmographic signal with limb-threatening levels of ischemia produced by inflation of a blood-pressure cuff. Studies comparing this technique to compartment pressures and arterial flow determined by ultrasound Doppler measurement are continuing. Clinically, we have used this monitoring technique on 29 trauma patients thus far, including 18 with circumferential full-thickness burns of at least one extremity. We believe that these preliminary studies suggest that photoplethysmography is a valuable continuous monitor of vascular status following trauma and a reliable indicator of nutritional blood flow.", "contents": "A photoplethysmographic technique for detecting vascular compromise: a preliminary report. We have developed a photoplethysmographic technique for monitoring early signs of vascular compromise in extremities affected by direct vessel trauma, crushing trauma, or circumferential burns. The technique consists of positioning a small infrared emitter-detector array shielded from room light over a nailbed of the affected extremity and connecting the array to standard electronic monitoring equipment, thus producing a pulse tracing very similar in contour to an arterial pressure wave. In normal volunteers, simultaneous observations of the tracing and studies of muscle blood flow using Xe133 clearance showed correspondence of disappearance of the plethysmographic signal with limb-threatening levels of ischemia produced by inflation of a blood-pressure cuff. Studies comparing this technique to compartment pressures and arterial flow determined by ultrasound Doppler measurement are continuing. Clinically, we have used this monitoring technique on 29 trauma patients thus far, including 18 with circumferential full-thickness burns of at least one extremity. We believe that these preliminary studies suggest that photoplethysmography is a valuable continuous monitor of vascular status following trauma and a reliable indicator of nutritional blood flow.", "PMID": 448779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8807", "title": "The use of Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate scintigraphy to identify muscle damage in acute electric burns.", "content": "High-voltage electric burns are often associated with deep muscle damage in addition to a limited cutaneous burn. Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate (99mTc-PYP) scintigrams were evaluated as a diagnostic tool to detect and localize both large and focal areas of skeletal muscle necrosis. Scintigrams were performed in 14 patients between the first and fifth postinjury days and imaging was done over areas of suspected and clinically apparent muscle injury. Muscle damage was identified by an increased cellular uptake of the tagged material. All 14 patients had gross and histologic evidence of muscle necrosis. Muscle necrosis was identified as early as 24 hours and as late as 6 days postinjury. The location and extent of muscle injury was correctly ascertained preoperatively in all patients.", "contents": "The use of Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate scintigraphy to identify muscle damage in acute electric burns. High-voltage electric burns are often associated with deep muscle damage in addition to a limited cutaneous burn. Technetium-99m stannous pyrophosphate (99mTc-PYP) scintigrams were evaluated as a diagnostic tool to detect and localize both large and focal areas of skeletal muscle necrosis. Scintigrams were performed in 14 patients between the first and fifth postinjury days and imaging was done over areas of suspected and clinically apparent muscle injury. Muscle damage was identified by an increased cellular uptake of the tagged material. All 14 patients had gross and histologic evidence of muscle necrosis. Muscle necrosis was identified as early as 24 hours and as late as 6 days postinjury. The location and extent of muscle injury was correctly ascertained preoperatively in all patients.", "PMID": 448780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8808", "title": "The etiology of post-traumatic empyema and the role of decortication.", "content": "Decortication post-traumatic empyema (PTE) was performed in 27 patients from 1972 through 1977. All 27 patients had penetrating chest wounds and were refractory to antibiotics and tube thoracostomy. Factors associated with PTE included unrecognized diaphragmatic perforation, large hemothorax greater than 500 ml, pulmonary contusion, extrathoracic extension of hematoma within the chest wall, and incomplete expansion of the lung with initial tube thoracostomy. Prophylactic antibiotic usage did not prevent PTE nor lead to negative intrapleural cultures preoperatively. The timing of decortication varied with indication: two patients with infected pneumothorax had surgery within 1 week; 15 patients with infected pleural clot had surgery within 4 weeks; ten including nine who were readmitted to the hospital had surgery more than 4 weeks after injury. Prevention of PTE requires early recognition of hemo- or pneumothorax, early tube thoracostomy with complete evacuation of blood and expansion of lung, careful daily monitoring of subsequent fluid accumulation, and prompt evacuation when such fluid accumulates. Once PTE becomes well established and refractory to standard modalities, decortication with evacuation of the empyema cavity should be performed as soon as possible.", "contents": "The etiology of post-traumatic empyema and the role of decortication. Decortication post-traumatic empyema (PTE) was performed in 27 patients from 1972 through 1977. All 27 patients had penetrating chest wounds and were refractory to antibiotics and tube thoracostomy. Factors associated with PTE included unrecognized diaphragmatic perforation, large hemothorax greater than 500 ml, pulmonary contusion, extrathoracic extension of hematoma within the chest wall, and incomplete expansion of the lung with initial tube thoracostomy. Prophylactic antibiotic usage did not prevent PTE nor lead to negative intrapleural cultures preoperatively. The timing of decortication varied with indication: two patients with infected pneumothorax had surgery within 1 week; 15 patients with infected pleural clot had surgery within 4 weeks; ten including nine who were readmitted to the hospital had surgery more than 4 weeks after injury. Prevention of PTE requires early recognition of hemo- or pneumothorax, early tube thoracostomy with complete evacuation of blood and expansion of lung, careful daily monitoring of subsequent fluid accumulation, and prompt evacuation when such fluid accumulates. Once PTE becomes well established and refractory to standard modalities, decortication with evacuation of the empyema cavity should be performed as soon as possible.", "PMID": 448781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8809", "title": "Ventilation:perfusion maldistribution secondary to the hyperdynamic cardiovascular state as the major cause of increased pulmonary shunting in human sepsis.", "content": "Cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were obtained in 374 studies from 151 patients (64 septic or septic shock and 87 with nonseptic cardiogenic syndromes). Cardiac output and related measures, respiratory parameters, pulmonary blood volume (DV/m2), cardiac ejection fraction (EFx), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), peripheral resistance (TPR), pulmonary shunt (QS/QT), physiologic dead space (VD/VT) and mean ventilation perfusion ratios (VA/QT) were calculated. Both physiologic evaluation and multivariable statistical analyses of the data were performed. For a given level of (A-aO2 gradient/PaO2) septic patients have a higher QS/QT than cardiogenic patients. Hyperdynamic septic patients have a larger QS/QT, a greater VD/VT, and a lower VA/QT and TPR than cardiogenics. The decrease in VA/QT and the rise in VD/VT are strong functions of the increased EFx, which raises cardiac index (CI) and reduces LVEDV and the mean dispersion of pulmonary blood volume, thus causing hemodynamic redistribution of flow. QS/QT is mainly a direct function of the increase in CI which also tends to reverse the EFx-mediated rise in VD/VT. The role of the septic mediated decrease in TPR as a contributing pathologic feature and the use of volume infusion to raise LVEDV and VA/QT in high-CI septics with large QS/QT is discussed.", "contents": "Ventilation:perfusion maldistribution secondary to the hyperdynamic cardiovascular state as the major cause of increased pulmonary shunting in human sepsis. Cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were obtained in 374 studies from 151 patients (64 septic or septic shock and 87 with nonseptic cardiogenic syndromes). Cardiac output and related measures, respiratory parameters, pulmonary blood volume (DV/m2), cardiac ejection fraction (EFx), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), peripheral resistance (TPR), pulmonary shunt (QS/QT), physiologic dead space (VD/VT) and mean ventilation perfusion ratios (VA/QT) were calculated. Both physiologic evaluation and multivariable statistical analyses of the data were performed. For a given level of (A-aO2 gradient/PaO2) septic patients have a higher QS/QT than cardiogenic patients. Hyperdynamic septic patients have a larger QS/QT, a greater VD/VT, and a lower VA/QT and TPR than cardiogenics. The decrease in VA/QT and the rise in VD/VT are strong functions of the increased EFx, which raises cardiac index (CI) and reduces LVEDV and the mean dispersion of pulmonary blood volume, thus causing hemodynamic redistribution of flow. QS/QT is mainly a direct function of the increase in CI which also tends to reverse the EFx-mediated rise in VD/VT. The role of the septic mediated decrease in TPR as a contributing pathologic feature and the use of volume infusion to raise LVEDV and VA/QT in high-CI septics with large QS/QT is discussed.", "PMID": 448782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8810", "title": "Affairs of the wounded heart: penetrating cardiac wounds.", "content": "During the 10-year period ending 1 March 1978, 100 consecutive patients with penetrating cardiac wounds entered the Bexar County Hospital with some sign of life. The early and late mortality rate, 11%, declined to 8% during the last 4 years. Noncardiac injuries were responsible for six of the eleven deaths. Complications occurred in 17. The most frequently injured chambers were the right ventricle (46) and left ventricle (30). Sixty-nine patients had stab wounds and 26 had gunshot wounds. Pericardiocentesis was falsely positive or negative in 12 of 47 patients. Two distinct syndromes were apparent, hemorrhagic shock and cardiac tamponade. Patients with shock had immediate thoracotomy. Patients with suspected tamponade had a subxiphoid pericardial window, under local or light general anesthesia, for diagnosis and decompression before endotracheal intubation and sternotomy. Most wounds were repaired by direct suture. Cardiopulmonary bypass and thoracotomy before arrival in the operating room were rarely indicated.", "contents": "Affairs of the wounded heart: penetrating cardiac wounds. During the 10-year period ending 1 March 1978, 100 consecutive patients with penetrating cardiac wounds entered the Bexar County Hospital with some sign of life. The early and late mortality rate, 11%, declined to 8% during the last 4 years. Noncardiac injuries were responsible for six of the eleven deaths. Complications occurred in 17. The most frequently injured chambers were the right ventricle (46) and left ventricle (30). Sixty-nine patients had stab wounds and 26 had gunshot wounds. Pericardiocentesis was falsely positive or negative in 12 of 47 patients. Two distinct syndromes were apparent, hemorrhagic shock and cardiac tamponade. Patients with shock had immediate thoracotomy. Patients with suspected tamponade had a subxiphoid pericardial window, under local or light general anesthesia, for diagnosis and decompression before endotracheal intubation and sternotomy. Most wounds were repaired by direct suture. Cardiopulmonary bypass and thoracotomy before arrival in the operating room were rarely indicated.", "PMID": 448784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8811", "title": "Idiopathic cardiomyopathy in Botswana.", "content": "During a review of all cases of heart disease, including hypertensive cardiac failure, seen in Botswana during a period of sixteen months by one Specialist Physician observer, the importance of Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy as the commonest cause of cardiac failure clearly emerged. The aetiology of this condition and its relationship to hypertension and other factors causing an increased load on the myocardium are discussed. Viral myocarditis is presented as a separate entity, possibly playing a part in causation.", "contents": "Idiopathic cardiomyopathy in Botswana. During a review of all cases of heart disease, including hypertensive cardiac failure, seen in Botswana during a period of sixteen months by one Specialist Physician observer, the importance of Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy as the commonest cause of cardiac failure clearly emerged. The aetiology of this condition and its relationship to hypertension and other factors causing an increased load on the myocardium are discussed. Viral myocarditis is presented as a separate entity, possibly playing a part in causation.", "PMID": 448785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8812", "title": "Cardiac tamponade following penetrating mediastinal injuries: improved survival with early pericardiocentesis.", "content": "Cardiac tamponade was diagnosed in 197 patients admitted over 20 years (1955-1974) to the Charity Hospital of New Orleans, for emergency treatment of pentrating mediastinal injuries. Of the 197, 174 definitively treated patients followed one of three patterns of management: 96 had OR thoracotomy, 68% were unstable, and preoperative pericardiocentesis reduced mortality from 25 to 11% (p less than 0.01); 44 had emergency thoracotomy, 91% were unstable, and prethoractomy pericardiocentesis decreased mortality from 94 to 63% (p less than 0.05); 34 patients primarily with isolated stab wounds, were treated nonsurgically with pericardiocentesis and observation, only 50% were unstable and there was 15% mortality. Recurrent tamponade did not significantly increase overall or operative mortality in patients with pericardiocentesis. early, even presumptive, diagnosis of tamponade; immediate pericardial decompression via pericardiocentesis; and rapid transfer to OR for thoracotomy or sternotomy and cardiorrhaphy with continous pericardial decompression via intrapericardial catheter.", "contents": "Cardiac tamponade following penetrating mediastinal injuries: improved survival with early pericardiocentesis. Cardiac tamponade was diagnosed in 197 patients admitted over 20 years (1955-1974) to the Charity Hospital of New Orleans, for emergency treatment of pentrating mediastinal injuries. Of the 197, 174 definitively treated patients followed one of three patterns of management: 96 had OR thoracotomy, 68% were unstable, and preoperative pericardiocentesis reduced mortality from 25 to 11% (p less than 0.01); 44 had emergency thoracotomy, 91% were unstable, and prethoractomy pericardiocentesis decreased mortality from 94 to 63% (p less than 0.05); 34 patients primarily with isolated stab wounds, were treated nonsurgically with pericardiocentesis and observation, only 50% were unstable and there was 15% mortality. Recurrent tamponade did not significantly increase overall or operative mortality in patients with pericardiocentesis. early, even presumptive, diagnosis of tamponade; immediate pericardial decompression via pericardiocentesis; and rapid transfer to OR for thoracotomy or sternotomy and cardiorrhaphy with continous pericardial decompression via intrapericardial catheter.", "PMID": 448783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8813", "title": "A preliminary report on the treatment of intestinal schistosomiasis with oxamniquine.", "content": "Oxamniquine proved to be an efficient drug for the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni in adults. The cure rate obtained with a single oral dose of 15 mg/kg was 81.3 per cent. With 15 mg given b.d. for a single day the cure rate was 90 per cent. Post-treatment reduction of egg count was 93.7 and 95 per cent respectively within three months follow-up period. The drug, given by the oral route, was well tolerated, non-toxic, and side-effects were evanescent. Further studies are needed to indicate its use for mass treatment and control of schistosomiasis.", "contents": "A preliminary report on the treatment of intestinal schistosomiasis with oxamniquine. Oxamniquine proved to be an efficient drug for the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni in adults. The cure rate obtained with a single oral dose of 15 mg/kg was 81.3 per cent. With 15 mg given b.d. for a single day the cure rate was 90 per cent. Post-treatment reduction of egg count was 93.7 and 95 per cent respectively within three months follow-up period. The drug, given by the oral route, was well tolerated, non-toxic, and side-effects were evanescent. Further studies are needed to indicate its use for mass treatment and control of schistosomiasis.", "PMID": 448786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8814", "title": "Primate retroviruses: intracistronic mapping of type D viral gag gene by use of nonconditional replication mutants.", "content": "Nonconditional replication mutants of squirrel monkey retrovirus (SMRV), an endogenous type D virus of primates, are shown to be defective in post-translational processing of nonglycosylated virus-coded structural proteins. Utilizing such mutants, in combination with sensitive radioimmunological assays, we demonstrate the existence of a 72,000-molecular-weight precursor polyprotein (Pr72gag) encoded by a region of the SMRV genome designated gag. Post-translational cleavage of this precursor polyprotein gives rise to virion structural proteins of 35,000 (p35), 16,000 (p16), 12,000 (p12), and 9,000 (p9) molecular weight. Three of these viral proteins, p35, p16, and p9, are shown to be phosphorylated. Analysis of viral antigen expression in cell lines nonproductively infected with either of two replication-defective SMRV mutants or mink cells productively infected with wild-type SMRV resulted in the detection of several SMRV Pr72gag intermediate cleavage products. Adjacent proteins within such intermediates are identified by use of specific competition immunoassays, and the intracistropic order of individual structural proteins with SMRV Pr72gag was tentatively deduced as NH2-p16-p12-p35-p9-COOH.", "contents": "Primate retroviruses: intracistronic mapping of type D viral gag gene by use of nonconditional replication mutants. Nonconditional replication mutants of squirrel monkey retrovirus (SMRV), an endogenous type D virus of primates, are shown to be defective in post-translational processing of nonglycosylated virus-coded structural proteins. Utilizing such mutants, in combination with sensitive radioimmunological assays, we demonstrate the existence of a 72,000-molecular-weight precursor polyprotein (Pr72gag) encoded by a region of the SMRV genome designated gag. Post-translational cleavage of this precursor polyprotein gives rise to virion structural proteins of 35,000 (p35), 16,000 (p16), 12,000 (p12), and 9,000 (p9) molecular weight. Three of these viral proteins, p35, p16, and p9, are shown to be phosphorylated. Analysis of viral antigen expression in cell lines nonproductively infected with either of two replication-defective SMRV mutants or mink cells productively infected with wild-type SMRV resulted in the detection of several SMRV Pr72gag intermediate cleavage products. Adjacent proteins within such intermediates are identified by use of specific competition immunoassays, and the intracistropic order of individual structural proteins with SMRV Pr72gag was tentatively deduced as NH2-p16-p12-p35-p9-COOH.", "PMID": 448794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8815", "title": "Transforming region of group A, B, and C adenoviruses: DNA homology studies with twenty-nine human adenovirus serotypes.", "content": "The 31 human adenovirus (Ad) serotypes form five groups based upon DNA genome homologies: group A (Ad12, 18, 31), group B (Ad3, 7, 11, 14, 16, 21), group C (Ad1, 2, 5, 6), group D (Ad8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22-30), and group E (Ad4) (M. Green, J. Mackey, W. Wold, and P. Rigden, Virology, in press). Group A Ads are highly oncogenic in newborn hamsters, group B Ads are weakly oncogenic, and other Ads are nononcogenic. However, most or all Ads transform cultured cells. We have studied the homology of Ad5, Ad7, and Ad12 transforming restriction endonuclease DNA fragments with DNAs of 29 Ad types. Ad5 HindIII-G (map position 0-7.3), Ad7 XhoI-C (map position 0-10.8), and Ad12 (strain Huie) EcoRI-C (map position 0-16) and SalI-C (map position 0-10.6) fragments were purified, labeled in vitro (nick translation), and annealed with DNAs of Ad1 to Ad16, Ad18 to Ad24, and Ad26 to Ad31. Hybrids were assayed by using hydroxylapatite. Ad5 HindIII-G hybridized 98 to 100% with DNAs of group C Ads, but only 1 to 15% with DNAs of other types. Ad7 XhoI-C fragment hybridized 85 to 99% with DNAs of group B Ads, but only 6 to 21% with DNAs of other types. Ad12 (Huie) EcoRI-C hybridized 53 to 68% with DNAs of five other Ad12 strains, 53% with Ad18 DNA, 56% with Ad31 DNA, but only 3 to 13% with DNAs of other types. In vitro-labeled Ad12 (Huie) SalI-C hybridized 35 to 71% with DNAs of 6 other Ad12 strains, 44% with Ad18 DNA, 52% with Ad31 DNA, but only 2 to 7% with DNAs Ad7, Ad2, Ad26, or Ad4. When assayed using S-1 nuclease, SalI-C annealed 17 to 44% with DNAs of group A Ads. The melting temperatures of the hybrids of Ad5 HindIII-G with all group C Ad DNAs were 84 degrees C in 0.12 M sodium phosphate (pH 6.8). The melting temperature of the Ad12 (Huie) EcoRI-C hybrid with Ad12 (Huie) DNA was 83 degrees C, but was only 71 to 77 degrees C with DNAs of other group A Ads. Thus, group C and group B Ads both have very homologous transforming regions that are not represented in DNAs of non-group C Ads or non-group B Ads, respectively. Similarily, group A Ads have unique but less homologous transforming regions. These different transforming nucleotide sequences may be reflected in the different oncogenic properties of group A, B, and C Ads.", "contents": "Transforming region of group A, B, and C adenoviruses: DNA homology studies with twenty-nine human adenovirus serotypes. The 31 human adenovirus (Ad) serotypes form five groups based upon DNA genome homologies: group A (Ad12, 18, 31), group B (Ad3, 7, 11, 14, 16, 21), group C (Ad1, 2, 5, 6), group D (Ad8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22-30), and group E (Ad4) (M. Green, J. Mackey, W. Wold, and P. Rigden, Virology, in press). Group A Ads are highly oncogenic in newborn hamsters, group B Ads are weakly oncogenic, and other Ads are nononcogenic. However, most or all Ads transform cultured cells. We have studied the homology of Ad5, Ad7, and Ad12 transforming restriction endonuclease DNA fragments with DNAs of 29 Ad types. Ad5 HindIII-G (map position 0-7.3), Ad7 XhoI-C (map position 0-10.8), and Ad12 (strain Huie) EcoRI-C (map position 0-16) and SalI-C (map position 0-10.6) fragments were purified, labeled in vitro (nick translation), and annealed with DNAs of Ad1 to Ad16, Ad18 to Ad24, and Ad26 to Ad31. Hybrids were assayed by using hydroxylapatite. Ad5 HindIII-G hybridized 98 to 100% with DNAs of group C Ads, but only 1 to 15% with DNAs of other types. Ad7 XhoI-C fragment hybridized 85 to 99% with DNAs of group B Ads, but only 6 to 21% with DNAs of other types. Ad12 (Huie) EcoRI-C hybridized 53 to 68% with DNAs of five other Ad12 strains, 53% with Ad18 DNA, 56% with Ad31 DNA, but only 3 to 13% with DNAs of other types. In vitro-labeled Ad12 (Huie) SalI-C hybridized 35 to 71% with DNAs of 6 other Ad12 strains, 44% with Ad18 DNA, 52% with Ad31 DNA, but only 2 to 7% with DNAs Ad7, Ad2, Ad26, or Ad4. When assayed using S-1 nuclease, SalI-C annealed 17 to 44% with DNAs of group A Ads. The melting temperatures of the hybrids of Ad5 HindIII-G with all group C Ad DNAs were 84 degrees C in 0.12 M sodium phosphate (pH 6.8). The melting temperature of the Ad12 (Huie) EcoRI-C hybrid with Ad12 (Huie) DNA was 83 degrees C, but was only 71 to 77 degrees C with DNAs of other group A Ads. Thus, group C and group B Ads both have very homologous transforming regions that are not represented in DNAs of non-group C Ads or non-group B Ads, respectively. Similarily, group A Ads have unique but less homologous transforming regions. These different transforming nucleotide sequences may be reflected in the different oncogenic properties of group A, B, and C Ads.", "PMID": 448795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8816", "title": "Characterization of measles virus-specific proteins synthesized in vivo and in vitro from acutely and persistently infected cells.", "content": "Measles virus protein synthesis has been analyzed in acutely and persistently infected cells. To assess the role of measles in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), measles viral proteins synthesized in vivo or in vitro were tested for reactivity with serum from a guinea pig(s) immunized with measles virus and sera from patients with SSPE. Guinea pig antimeasles virus serum immunoprecipitates the viral polypeptides of 78,000 molecular weight (glycosylated [G]), 70,000 molecular weight (phosphorylated [P]), 60,000 molecular weight (nucleocapsid [N]), and 35,000 molecular weight (matrix [M]) from cells acutely infected with measles virus as well as from chronically infected cells, but in the latter case, immunoprecipitated M protein has a reduced electrophoretic migration. Sera of SSPE patients immunoprecipitated all but the G protein in acutely infected cells and only the P and N proteins from chronically infected cells. In immunoprecipitates of viral polypeptides synthesized in a reticulocyte cell-free translation system, in response to mRNA from acutely or persistently infected cells, the 78,000-molecular-weight form of the G protein was not detected among the cell-free products of either mRNA. Guinea pig antimeasles virus serum immunoprecipitated P, N, and M polypeptides from the products of either form of mRNA, whereas SSPE serum immunoprecipitated the P and N polypeptides but not the M polypeptide. The differences in immunoreactivity of the antimeasles virus antiserum and the SSPE serum are discussed in terms of possible modifications of measles virus proteins in SSPE.", "contents": "Characterization of measles virus-specific proteins synthesized in vivo and in vitro from acutely and persistently infected cells. Measles virus protein synthesis has been analyzed in acutely and persistently infected cells. To assess the role of measles in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), measles viral proteins synthesized in vivo or in vitro were tested for reactivity with serum from a guinea pig(s) immunized with measles virus and sera from patients with SSPE. Guinea pig antimeasles virus serum immunoprecipitates the viral polypeptides of 78,000 molecular weight (glycosylated [G]), 70,000 molecular weight (phosphorylated [P]), 60,000 molecular weight (nucleocapsid [N]), and 35,000 molecular weight (matrix [M]) from cells acutely infected with measles virus as well as from chronically infected cells, but in the latter case, immunoprecipitated M protein has a reduced electrophoretic migration. Sera of SSPE patients immunoprecipitated all but the G protein in acutely infected cells and only the P and N proteins from chronically infected cells. In immunoprecipitates of viral polypeptides synthesized in a reticulocyte cell-free translation system, in response to mRNA from acutely or persistently infected cells, the 78,000-molecular-weight form of the G protein was not detected among the cell-free products of either mRNA. Guinea pig antimeasles virus serum immunoprecipitated P, N, and M polypeptides from the products of either form of mRNA, whereas SSPE serum immunoprecipitated the P and N polypeptides but not the M polypeptide. The differences in immunoreactivity of the antimeasles virus antiserum and the SSPE serum are discussed in terms of possible modifications of measles virus proteins in SSPE.", "PMID": 448796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8817", "title": "Origin of small RNA in von Magnus particles of influenza virus.", "content": "A clone of recombinant virus obtained from the cross between WSN and Hong Kong strains of influenza virus gave rise to progeny containing predominantly von Magnus particles. In the electropherogram of virus RNA, the P3 gene was markedly diminished, and a new species of RNA (extra RNA) was present in addition to eight gene segments. The origin of the extra RNA was studied by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of T1 RNase-generated oligonucleotides. Four out of five large oligonucleotide spots present in the extra RNA matched to those contained by the P3 gene. It was concluded that the extra RNA was derived from the P3 gene probably by deletion. The possible origin of the spot which was present in the extra RNA but not in eight gene segments including P3 was discussed.", "contents": "Origin of small RNA in von Magnus particles of influenza virus. A clone of recombinant virus obtained from the cross between WSN and Hong Kong strains of influenza virus gave rise to progeny containing predominantly von Magnus particles. In the electropherogram of virus RNA, the P3 gene was markedly diminished, and a new species of RNA (extra RNA) was present in addition to eight gene segments. The origin of the extra RNA was studied by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of T1 RNase-generated oligonucleotides. Four out of five large oligonucleotide spots present in the extra RNA matched to those contained by the P3 gene. It was concluded that the extra RNA was derived from the P3 gene probably by deletion. The possible origin of the spot which was present in the extra RNA but not in eight gene segments including P3 was discussed.", "PMID": 448797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8818", "title": "Two small virus-specific polypeptides are produced during infection with Sindbis virus.", "content": "We have identified and characterized two small virus-specific polypeptides which are produced during infection of cells with Sindbis virus, but which are not incorporated into the mature virion. The larger of these is a glycoprotein with an approximate molecular weight of 9,800 and is found predominantly in the medium of infected cells. Three independent lines of evidence demonstrate conclusively that this 9,800-dalton glycoprotein is produced during the proteolytic conversion of the precursor polypeptide, PE2, to the virion glycoprotein E2. This small glycoprotein is therefore analogous to the virion glycoprotein E3 of the very closely related alphavirus, Semliki Forest virus. The 9,800-dalton glycoprotein of Sindbis virus, unlike the E3 glycoprotein of Semliki Forest virus, is not, however, present in the viral particle. The other virus-specific polypeptide is 4,200 daltons in size, does not appear to be a glycoprotein, and is neither incorporated into the mature virus nor released into the culture medium. The gene for this small polypeptide is present in the viral 26S mRNA (the mRNA which encodes all the viral structural polypeptides) and appears to be located in the portion of the mRNA which encodes the two viral glycoproteins. The possibility that this 4,200-dalton polypeptide functions as a signal peptide during the synthesis of the viral membrane glycoproteins is discussed.", "contents": "Two small virus-specific polypeptides are produced during infection with Sindbis virus. We have identified and characterized two small virus-specific polypeptides which are produced during infection of cells with Sindbis virus, but which are not incorporated into the mature virion. The larger of these is a glycoprotein with an approximate molecular weight of 9,800 and is found predominantly in the medium of infected cells. Three independent lines of evidence demonstrate conclusively that this 9,800-dalton glycoprotein is produced during the proteolytic conversion of the precursor polypeptide, PE2, to the virion glycoprotein E2. This small glycoprotein is therefore analogous to the virion glycoprotein E3 of the very closely related alphavirus, Semliki Forest virus. The 9,800-dalton glycoprotein of Sindbis virus, unlike the E3 glycoprotein of Semliki Forest virus, is not, however, present in the viral particle. The other virus-specific polypeptide is 4,200 daltons in size, does not appear to be a glycoprotein, and is neither incorporated into the mature virus nor released into the culture medium. The gene for this small polypeptide is present in the viral 26S mRNA (the mRNA which encodes all the viral structural polypeptides) and appears to be located in the portion of the mRNA which encodes the two viral glycoproteins. The possibility that this 4,200-dalton polypeptide functions as a signal peptide during the synthesis of the viral membrane glycoproteins is discussed.", "PMID": 448798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8819", "title": "Nucleosome-like structural subunits of intranuclear parental adenovirus type 2 DNA.", "content": "The intranuclear structure of parental adenovirus 2 DNA was studied using digestion with micrococcal nuclease as a probe. When cultures were infected with 32P-labeled virions, at a multiplicity of 3,000 particles per cell, 14 to 21% of parental DNA penetrated the cell and reached the nucleus. Of this parental DNA, 60% could be solubilized by extensive digestion with micrococcal nuclease. The nuclease-resistant fraction contained viral deoxyribonucleoprotein monomers and oligomers. These nucleosome-like structures contained DNA fragments which are integral multiples of a unit-length DNA of approximately 185 base pairs. The monomeric DNA is similar in length to the unit-length DNA contained in cellular nucleosomes. However, the viral oligomers are slightly smaller than their cellular counterparts. DNA-DNA hybridization demonstrated that all segments of the viral genome, including those expressed as mRNA only at late times, are represented in the nucleosomal viral DNA. The amount of early intranuclear viral chromatin was proportional to multiplicity of infection up to multiplicities of 4,000 particles per cell. However, viral transcriptional activity did not increase in direct proportion to the amount of viral chromatin. Maximum accumulation of intranuclear viral chromatin was achieved by 3 h after infection. The intranuclear parental viral chromatin remained resistant to nuclease digestion even at late times in infection, after viral DNA replication had begun.", "contents": "Nucleosome-like structural subunits of intranuclear parental adenovirus type 2 DNA. The intranuclear structure of parental adenovirus 2 DNA was studied using digestion with micrococcal nuclease as a probe. When cultures were infected with 32P-labeled virions, at a multiplicity of 3,000 particles per cell, 14 to 21% of parental DNA penetrated the cell and reached the nucleus. Of this parental DNA, 60% could be solubilized by extensive digestion with micrococcal nuclease. The nuclease-resistant fraction contained viral deoxyribonucleoprotein monomers and oligomers. These nucleosome-like structures contained DNA fragments which are integral multiples of a unit-length DNA of approximately 185 base pairs. The monomeric DNA is similar in length to the unit-length DNA contained in cellular nucleosomes. However, the viral oligomers are slightly smaller than their cellular counterparts. DNA-DNA hybridization demonstrated that all segments of the viral genome, including those expressed as mRNA only at late times, are represented in the nucleosomal viral DNA. The amount of early intranuclear viral chromatin was proportional to multiplicity of infection up to multiplicities of 4,000 particles per cell. However, viral transcriptional activity did not increase in direct proportion to the amount of viral chromatin. Maximum accumulation of intranuclear viral chromatin was achieved by 3 h after infection. The intranuclear parental viral chromatin remained resistant to nuclease digestion even at late times in infection, after viral DNA replication had begun.", "PMID": 448800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8820", "title": "Highly inducible cell lines derived from mice genetically transmitting the Moloney murine leukemia virus genome.", "content": "Permanent, non-virus-producing cell lines have been established from a mouse embryo carrying an endogenous, genetically transmitted Moloney murine leukemia virus (M-MuLV) genome. These cells carry the M-MuLV genome, as demonstrated by hybridization of cellular DNA to M-MuLV complementary DNA, but do not express it at the levels of virus production, accumulation of intracellular viral p30, or M-MuLV-specific RNA. Treatment with bromodeoxyuridine (50 microgram/ml for 24 h) resulted in induction of XC-positive NB-tropic virus, although only a small fraction of the cells released virus (less than 0.1% after 48 h). Immunofluorescent staining and flow microfluorometry indicated that a wave of p30 accumulation occurs in the induced cells, with a maximum at 24 to 48 h after the addition of bromodeoxyuridine. Furthermore, most, if not all, cells were induced to produce p30 protein. Similar kinetics were found for the accumulation of M-MuLV-specific RNA in the cytoplasm of induced cells. This rapid induction of virus expression in a majority of cells was dependent on the presence of the M-MuLV genome and probably represents primarily the expression of this endogenous virus since induction was not observed in cells similarly derived from a sibling embryo lacking the M-MuLV genome.", "contents": "Highly inducible cell lines derived from mice genetically transmitting the Moloney murine leukemia virus genome. Permanent, non-virus-producing cell lines have been established from a mouse embryo carrying an endogenous, genetically transmitted Moloney murine leukemia virus (M-MuLV) genome. These cells carry the M-MuLV genome, as demonstrated by hybridization of cellular DNA to M-MuLV complementary DNA, but do not express it at the levels of virus production, accumulation of intracellular viral p30, or M-MuLV-specific RNA. Treatment with bromodeoxyuridine (50 microgram/ml for 24 h) resulted in induction of XC-positive NB-tropic virus, although only a small fraction of the cells released virus (less than 0.1% after 48 h). Immunofluorescent staining and flow microfluorometry indicated that a wave of p30 accumulation occurs in the induced cells, with a maximum at 24 to 48 h after the addition of bromodeoxyuridine. Furthermore, most, if not all, cells were induced to produce p30 protein. Similar kinetics were found for the accumulation of M-MuLV-specific RNA in the cytoplasm of induced cells. This rapid induction of virus expression in a majority of cells was dependent on the presence of the M-MuLV genome and probably represents primarily the expression of this endogenous virus since induction was not observed in cells similarly derived from a sibling embryo lacking the M-MuLV genome.", "PMID": 448801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8821", "title": "Reevaluation of the proteins in rabies virus particles.", "content": "Protein content and localization of individual proteins of rabies virus have been studied. Four major proteins (estimated molecular weights, about 65,000, 54,000, 37,000 and 21,000), one minor component (molecular weight, about 200,000), and one intermediate (as regards its molar concentration) component (molecular weight, about 43,000) were revealed in rabies virus particles. In subviral particles accumulating in virus-infected cells, the 200,000-, 54,000-, and 37,000-dalton components were revealed. Some properties of the subviral particles allow them to be considered as viral nucleocapsids and the proteins composing them as analogs of L, N, and NS proteins of other rhabdoviruses. Thus, the protein composition of the rabies virus strain studied does not differ from that of other rhabdoviruses.", "contents": "Reevaluation of the proteins in rabies virus particles. Protein content and localization of individual proteins of rabies virus have been studied. Four major proteins (estimated molecular weights, about 65,000, 54,000, 37,000 and 21,000), one minor component (molecular weight, about 200,000), and one intermediate (as regards its molar concentration) component (molecular weight, about 43,000) were revealed in rabies virus particles. In subviral particles accumulating in virus-infected cells, the 200,000-, 54,000-, and 37,000-dalton components were revealed. Some properties of the subviral particles allow them to be considered as viral nucleocapsids and the proteins composing them as analogs of L, N, and NS proteins of other rhabdoviruses. Thus, the protein composition of the rabies virus strain studied does not differ from that of other rhabdoviruses.", "PMID": 448799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8822", "title": "Magical thinking and imipramine poisoning in two school-age children.", "content": "Two young school-aged boys took an overdose of imipramine hydrochloride to help their enuresis. One child died, and the other required resuscitation. An office survey found that one third of school-aged children did not realize the potentially hazadous consequences of taking extra amounts of prescription medications. Physicians might be able to prevent similar needless tragedies by warning both the child and the parents of the unusual lethality of imipramine and other dangerous prescription drugs.", "contents": "Magical thinking and imipramine poisoning in two school-age children. Two young school-aged boys took an overdose of imipramine hydrochloride to help their enuresis. One child died, and the other required resuscitation. An office survey found that one third of school-aged children did not realize the potentially hazadous consequences of taking extra amounts of prescription medications. Physicians might be able to prevent similar needless tragedies by warning both the child and the parents of the unusual lethality of imipramine and other dangerous prescription drugs.", "PMID": 448804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8823", "title": "Purification and characterization of an early glycoprotein from adenovirus type 2-infected cells.", "content": "An adenovirus type 2 early glycoprotein with an apparent molecular weight of 19,000 (E19K) in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels has been extensively purified. Purification involved detergent solubilization of membrane fractions from infected cells, followed by affinity chromatography on a lectin column and DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. The purified material contained three polypeptides (E40K, E19K, E17.5K), with approximately 90% of the material in the E19K moiety. All three polypeptides yielded identical tryptic peptide maps. The E19K polypeptide contained glucosamine as revealed by [3H]glucosamine labeling of infected cells and amino acid analysis of the purified protein. Immunoprecipitation with a monospecific antiserum showed that the E19K polypeptide started to be synthesized at 2 h, with a maximal rate at 4 h after infection. It was also synthesized at a low rate late in the infectious cycle (12 to 24 h postinfection). Immunoprecipitation from three adenovirus type 2-transformed hamster embryo cell lines and two adenovirus type 2-transformed rat cell lines revealed that one of the hamster cell lines (ad2HE4) and one of the rat cell lines (A2T2C4) expressed this protein.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of an early glycoprotein from adenovirus type 2-infected cells. An adenovirus type 2 early glycoprotein with an apparent molecular weight of 19,000 (E19K) in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels has been extensively purified. Purification involved detergent solubilization of membrane fractions from infected cells, followed by affinity chromatography on a lectin column and DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. The purified material contained three polypeptides (E40K, E19K, E17.5K), with approximately 90% of the material in the E19K moiety. All three polypeptides yielded identical tryptic peptide maps. The E19K polypeptide contained glucosamine as revealed by [3H]glucosamine labeling of infected cells and amino acid analysis of the purified protein. Immunoprecipitation with a monospecific antiserum showed that the E19K polypeptide started to be synthesized at 2 h, with a maximal rate at 4 h after infection. It was also synthesized at a low rate late in the infectious cycle (12 to 24 h postinfection). Immunoprecipitation from three adenovirus type 2-transformed hamster embryo cell lines and two adenovirus type 2-transformed rat cell lines revealed that one of the hamster cell lines (ad2HE4) and one of the rat cell lines (A2T2C4) expressed this protein.", "PMID": 448802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8824", "title": "Carbohydrate components of influenza C virions.", "content": "The carbohydrate components of influenza C virions grown in chicken kidney (CK) cells were analyzed by gel filtration following exhaustive digestion with Pronase. The [(3)H]glucosamine-labeled glycopeptides were larger and more heterogeneous than those of influenza A/WSN virions; three major size classes (G(1), G(2), and G(3)) were resolved. Treatment with Vibrio cholerae neuraminidase caused a decrease in size of G(1) and G(2), along with release of about 16% of the (3)H label. The released sugar components were identified as N-acetylneuraminic acid by thin-layer chromatography. Peak G(3) was highly labeled with [(3)H]mannose, whereas G(1) and G(2) contained lower levels of mannose. The three major viral glycoproteins gp88, gp65, and gp30 were isolated from sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, and their glycopeptide components were analyzed after Pronase digestion. The three size classes of glycopeptides were obtained from any of the three glycoproteins; however, the relative amounts of the three components varied among the glycoproteins. Host cell-derived components, which appear to be mucopolysaccharides and glycoproteins, were found associated with influenza C virions grown in CK cells. These components contained glycopeptides that were mainly of sizes similar to peak G(2) from influenza C virions. Previous studies have shown that influenza A/WSN virus grown in several cell types contained only two size classes of glycopeptides. Two size classes comparable to peaks G(2) and G(3) from influenza C virions were also observed in influenza A/WSN grown in CK cells. Thus the large G(1) glycopeptides appear to be characteristic of influenza C virions.", "contents": "Carbohydrate components of influenza C virions. The carbohydrate components of influenza C virions grown in chicken kidney (CK) cells were analyzed by gel filtration following exhaustive digestion with Pronase. The [(3)H]glucosamine-labeled glycopeptides were larger and more heterogeneous than those of influenza A/WSN virions; three major size classes (G(1), G(2), and G(3)) were resolved. Treatment with Vibrio cholerae neuraminidase caused a decrease in size of G(1) and G(2), along with release of about 16% of the (3)H label. The released sugar components were identified as N-acetylneuraminic acid by thin-layer chromatography. Peak G(3) was highly labeled with [(3)H]mannose, whereas G(1) and G(2) contained lower levels of mannose. The three major viral glycoproteins gp88, gp65, and gp30 were isolated from sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, and their glycopeptide components were analyzed after Pronase digestion. The three size classes of glycopeptides were obtained from any of the three glycoproteins; however, the relative amounts of the three components varied among the glycoproteins. Host cell-derived components, which appear to be mucopolysaccharides and glycoproteins, were found associated with influenza C virions grown in CK cells. These components contained glycopeptides that were mainly of sizes similar to peak G(2) from influenza C virions. Previous studies have shown that influenza A/WSN virus grown in several cell types contained only two size classes of glycopeptides. Two size classes comparable to peaks G(2) and G(3) from influenza C virions were also observed in influenza A/WSN grown in CK cells. Thus the large G(1) glycopeptides appear to be characteristic of influenza C virions.", "PMID": 448803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8825", "title": "Autologous transfusions. Experience in a community blood center.", "content": "Review of the clinical records of 103 patients participating in a community-blood-bank-sponsored autologous transfusion program confirmed the safety of autologous blood and the practically of such a community-centered program. There were no transfusion reactions, increased morbidity, or reports of hepatitis among the autologous donor-patients. A previously unobserved phenomenon was that surgeons tended to transfuse less blood to patients who had autologous blood available, rarely exceeding the number donated, although this varied from one to three units for similar surgery. Only eight of the 103 patients intentionally received a transfusion with homologous blood in addition to their autologously donated blood. Patients, their physicians, and the blood bank can all benefit substantially from such a program.", "contents": "Autologous transfusions. Experience in a community blood center. Review of the clinical records of 103 patients participating in a community-blood-bank-sponsored autologous transfusion program confirmed the safety of autologous blood and the practically of such a community-centered program. There were no transfusion reactions, increased morbidity, or reports of hepatitis among the autologous donor-patients. A previously unobserved phenomenon was that surgeons tended to transfuse less blood to patients who had autologous blood available, rarely exceeding the number donated, although this varied from one to three units for similar surgery. Only eight of the 103 patients intentionally received a transfusion with homologous blood in addition to their autologously donated blood. Patients, their physicians, and the blood bank can all benefit substantially from such a program.", "PMID": 448819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8826", "title": "Mittelschmerz. Sonographic demonstration.", "content": "Ultrasonography of the pelvis at mid-menstrual cycle in normal women has demonstrated small quantities of free fluid in 40% of cycles. Two thirds of the cycles associated with pain had ultrasonically demonstrated fluid at ovulation. These sonographic findings at Mittelschmerz confirm the physiological trauma of ovulation.", "contents": "Mittelschmerz. Sonographic demonstration. Ultrasonography of the pelvis at mid-menstrual cycle in normal women has demonstrated small quantities of free fluid in 40% of cycles. Two thirds of the cycles associated with pain had ultrasonically demonstrated fluid at ovulation. These sonographic findings at Mittelschmerz confirm the physiological trauma of ovulation.", "PMID": 448821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8827", "title": "Reversible acute renal failure induced by indomethacin.", "content": "Acute renal failure occurred during indomethacin therapy in a patient with chronic pyelonephritis. Urinary prostaglandin E2 levels were diminished but returned to normal after discontinuation of drug therapy and recovery of renal function. Prostaglandins may be critical for the integrity of renal function, and the use of prostaglandin inhibitors such as indomethacin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be deleterious in patients with underlying renal disease.", "contents": "Reversible acute renal failure induced by indomethacin. Acute renal failure occurred during indomethacin therapy in a patient with chronic pyelonephritis. Urinary prostaglandin E2 levels were diminished but returned to normal after discontinuation of drug therapy and recovery of renal function. Prostaglandins may be critical for the integrity of renal function, and the use of prostaglandin inhibitors such as indomethacin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be deleterious in patients with underlying renal disease.", "PMID": 448822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8828", "title": "The fat embolism syndrome.", "content": "The fat embolism syndrome is a symptom complex of acute respiratory failure after long-bone fractures. It is thought to be caused by deposition of embolic fat within the pulmonary capillaries, resulting in a capillary leak within the lung. The source of the embolic fat appears to be marrow fat. Alterations in circulating free fatty acids, increases in fibrin split products, and increases in platelet adhesiveness have been observed to occur in this syndrome and probably play an important part in the production of the pulmonary lesion. The signs and symptoms of the syndrome are hypoxemia, tachypnea, petechiae, fever, altered sensorium, and chest roentgenograms similar to signs of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Early recognition is facilitated by monitoring of arterial blood gas levels for hypoxemia. Treatment is directed at ARDS using graduated oxygen therapy and steroids.", "contents": "The fat embolism syndrome. The fat embolism syndrome is a symptom complex of acute respiratory failure after long-bone fractures. It is thought to be caused by deposition of embolic fat within the pulmonary capillaries, resulting in a capillary leak within the lung. The source of the embolic fat appears to be marrow fat. Alterations in circulating free fatty acids, increases in fibrin split products, and increases in platelet adhesiveness have been observed to occur in this syndrome and probably play an important part in the production of the pulmonary lesion. The signs and symptoms of the syndrome are hypoxemia, tachypnea, petechiae, fever, altered sensorium, and chest roentgenograms similar to signs of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Early recognition is facilitated by monitoring of arterial blood gas levels for hypoxemia. Treatment is directed at ARDS using graduated oxygen therapy and steroids.", "PMID": 448826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8829", "title": "Chest wall syndrome. A common cause of unexplained cardiac pain.", "content": "Twelve patients with severe, often incapacitating chest pain initially believed to be cardiac in origin were shown on subsequent evaluation to have chest wall syndrome. Diagnosis was suspected by the atypical nature of pain in 11 of 12 patients and confirmed by chest wall tenderness simulating the spontaneously occurring pain in all. Seven patients had chest wall syndrome in conjunction with other associated cardiac conditions. Five patients had isolated chest wall syndrome. All five had normal ejection fractions and no regional wall abnormalities on radionuclide cineangiographic studies performed during symptom-limited supine exercise, findings observed in few patients with coronary artery disease. Chest wall syndrome should be considered in all patients with chest pain, as its recognition can greatly aid in patient care.", "contents": "Chest wall syndrome. A common cause of unexplained cardiac pain. Twelve patients with severe, often incapacitating chest pain initially believed to be cardiac in origin were shown on subsequent evaluation to have chest wall syndrome. Diagnosis was suspected by the atypical nature of pain in 11 of 12 patients and confirmed by chest wall tenderness simulating the spontaneously occurring pain in all. Seven patients had chest wall syndrome in conjunction with other associated cardiac conditions. Five patients had isolated chest wall syndrome. All five had normal ejection fractions and no regional wall abnormalities on radionuclide cineangiographic studies performed during symptom-limited supine exercise, findings observed in few patients with coronary artery disease. Chest wall syndrome should be considered in all patients with chest pain, as its recognition can greatly aid in patient care.", "PMID": 448839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8830", "title": "Continuous monitoring for ventricular arrhythmias during exercise tests.", "content": "Exercise stress testing is being increasingly used to verify exercise-induced arrhythmia and to aid in assessing antiarrhythmic drug efficacy. The true prevalence of ventricular arrhythmia during exercise testing is underestimated by means other than continuous monitoring. We compared the yield of ventricular premature beats (VPBs) between a continuous recording system (\"trendscription\") and intermittent monitoring among 39 patients undergoing a total of 50 consecutive exercise studies. By intermittent monitoring, 22 (44%) of 50 of the exercise tests demonstrated VPBs; with trendscription, 31 (62%) exhibited such arrhythmia. Most striking, however, was a sixfold increase in the disclosure of complex and repetitive forms of VPBs (56 vs nine episodes). Thus, this form of monitoring presents a cost-efficient, on-line method that allows concentration on the patient during exercise as well as clear recording of all arrhythmic events.", "contents": "Continuous monitoring for ventricular arrhythmias during exercise tests. Exercise stress testing is being increasingly used to verify exercise-induced arrhythmia and to aid in assessing antiarrhythmic drug efficacy. The true prevalence of ventricular arrhythmia during exercise testing is underestimated by means other than continuous monitoring. We compared the yield of ventricular premature beats (VPBs) between a continuous recording system (\"trendscription\") and intermittent monitoring among 39 patients undergoing a total of 50 consecutive exercise studies. By intermittent monitoring, 22 (44%) of 50 of the exercise tests demonstrated VPBs; with trendscription, 31 (62%) exhibited such arrhythmia. Most striking, however, was a sixfold increase in the disclosure of complex and repetitive forms of VPBs (56 vs nine episodes). Thus, this form of monitoring presents a cost-efficient, on-line method that allows concentration on the patient during exercise as well as clear recording of all arrhythmic events.", "PMID": 448840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8831", "title": "Surveillance of nosocomial infections by antibiotic monitoring.", "content": "Records of all patients receiving intravenous gentamicin sulfate during a 92-day interval were reviewed to detect nosocomial infections that had been missed by routine surveillance. Only 46 of 48 of the 99 treatment courses had been detected. In 96% of cases not detected by routine surveillance, use of gentamicin was considered justified. Of the patients missed by surveillance, 83% were in oncology wards, and 46% had severe neutropenia and fever of unknown origin. Antibiotic surveillance proved a useful adjunct in estimating the incidence of nosocomial infections in such patients.", "contents": "Surveillance of nosocomial infections by antibiotic monitoring. Records of all patients receiving intravenous gentamicin sulfate during a 92-day interval were reviewed to detect nosocomial infections that had been missed by routine surveillance. Only 46 of 48 of the 99 treatment courses had been detected. In 96% of cases not detected by routine surveillance, use of gentamicin was considered justified. Of the patients missed by surveillance, 83% were in oncology wards, and 46% had severe neutropenia and fever of unknown origin. Antibiotic surveillance proved a useful adjunct in estimating the incidence of nosocomial infections in such patients.", "PMID": 448841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8832", "title": "Women physicians in medical academia. A national statistical survey.", "content": "We determined the representation of women physicians on US medical school faculties by enumeration from school catalogues according to professorial rank, title series, and department affilitation. We also compiled similar data for top-level administrative posts, using periodic chronological comparisons from 1955 through 1977 and 1978. Despite a burgeoning population of women medical students, we found a pattern of underuse of women physicians characterized by limited upward mobility on the faculty (professor: median, 3.0%; range, 0% to 18.2%; assistant professor; median, 7.3%; range, 0% to 28.7%). There were no women in chief executive positions.", "contents": "Women physicians in medical academia. A national statistical survey. We determined the representation of women physicians on US medical school faculties by enumeration from school catalogues according to professorial rank, title series, and department affilitation. We also compiled similar data for top-level administrative posts, using periodic chronological comparisons from 1955 through 1977 and 1978. Despite a burgeoning population of women medical students, we found a pattern of underuse of women physicians characterized by limited upward mobility on the faculty (professor: median, 3.0%; range, 0% to 18.2%; assistant professor; median, 7.3%; range, 0% to 28.7%). There were no women in chief executive positions.", "PMID": 448842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8833", "title": "Severe anaphylactoid reaction to radiographic contrast media. Recurrences despites premedication with diphenhydramine and prednisone.", "content": "Patients with a history of anaphylactoid reaction to radiographic contrast medium (RCM) are at increased risk for subsequent reaction. To date, 275 of these high-risk patients have been studied with use of prophylactic pretreatment with diphenhydramine hydrochloride or prednisone or both without a single severe anaphylactoid reaction on readministration of RCM. This report describes a patient who received pretreatment as described in the literature but suffered a life-threatening anaphylactoid reaction on readministration of RCM. Premedication does not eliminate the possiblity of a fatal reaction on readministration of RCM.", "contents": "Severe anaphylactoid reaction to radiographic contrast media. Recurrences despites premedication with diphenhydramine and prednisone. Patients with a history of anaphylactoid reaction to radiographic contrast medium (RCM) are at increased risk for subsequent reaction. To date, 275 of these high-risk patients have been studied with use of prophylactic pretreatment with diphenhydramine hydrochloride or prednisone or both without a single severe anaphylactoid reaction on readministration of RCM. This report describes a patient who received pretreatment as described in the literature but suffered a life-threatening anaphylactoid reaction on readministration of RCM. Premedication does not eliminate the possiblity of a fatal reaction on readministration of RCM.", "PMID": 448843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8834", "title": "Aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis in patients using methazolamide for glaucoma.", "content": "Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors used in the treatment of glaucoma, seizure disorders, and hypertension are rarely associated with blood dyscrasias. Several case reports of aplastic anemia with use of acetazolamide, and two cases with use of methazolamide, have appeared in the literature. This article describes two cases of aplastic anemia, at least one of which was almost certainly induced by the use of methazolamide, and one case of agranulocytosis related to the use of methazolamide.", "contents": "Aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis in patients using methazolamide for glaucoma. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors used in the treatment of glaucoma, seizure disorders, and hypertension are rarely associated with blood dyscrasias. Several case reports of aplastic anemia with use of acetazolamide, and two cases with use of methazolamide, have appeared in the literature. This article describes two cases of aplastic anemia, at least one of which was almost certainly induced by the use of methazolamide, and one case of agranulocytosis related to the use of methazolamide.", "PMID": 448845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8835", "title": "Cefazolin vs penicillin. Treatment of uncomplicated pneumococcal pneumonia.", "content": "Cefazolin sodium, 500 mg intramuscularly twice daily, was compared with penicillin G procaine, 600,000 units intramuscularly twice daily, in the treatment of 82 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia. Patients were randomly assigned except when there was a history of penicillin allergy. The patients received treatment for five days or until they were afebrile for 48 hours. No patients experienced side effects or allergic reactions. All patients recovered satisfactorily without relapses. Cefazolin in the previously described dosage is as effective as penicillin in the treatment of pneumococcal pneumonia.", "contents": "Cefazolin vs penicillin. Treatment of uncomplicated pneumococcal pneumonia. Cefazolin sodium, 500 mg intramuscularly twice daily, was compared with penicillin G procaine, 600,000 units intramuscularly twice daily, in the treatment of 82 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia. Patients were randomly assigned except when there was a history of penicillin allergy. The patients received treatment for five days or until they were afebrile for 48 hours. No patients experienced side effects or allergic reactions. All patients recovered satisfactorily without relapses. Cefazolin in the previously described dosage is as effective as penicillin in the treatment of pneumococcal pneumonia.", "PMID": 448844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8836", "title": "Tolbutamide pharmacogenetics and the UGDP controversy.", "content": "We analyzed the relationship between the pharmacogenetics of tolbutamide metabolism and the controversial University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) study. Before the institution of that study, the extent of genetic control over the variation in the rate of tolbutamide metabolism was unknown, and all subjects included in the tolbutamide treatment group were given 1,500 mg/day of tolbutamide in a fixed dosage. We addressed the hypothesis that high accrued blood levels of tolbutamide in genetically predisposed slow inactivators might have contributed to the toxic effects reported by the UGDP study. This proposal is based on recent findings from population, twin, and family studies that tolbutamide metabolism is under monogenic control, with nearly one fourth of the population classified as slow inactivators.", "contents": "Tolbutamide pharmacogenetics and the UGDP controversy. We analyzed the relationship between the pharmacogenetics of tolbutamide metabolism and the controversial University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) study. Before the institution of that study, the extent of genetic control over the variation in the rate of tolbutamide metabolism was unknown, and all subjects included in the tolbutamide treatment group were given 1,500 mg/day of tolbutamide in a fixed dosage. We addressed the hypothesis that high accrued blood levels of tolbutamide in genetically predisposed slow inactivators might have contributed to the toxic effects reported by the UGDP study. This proposal is based on recent findings from population, twin, and family studies that tolbutamide metabolism is under monogenic control, with nearly one fourth of the population classified as slow inactivators.", "PMID": 448864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8837", "title": "Tamoxifen. Use in treatment of metastatic breast cancer refractory to combination chemotherapy.", "content": "Tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex [Great Britain]; no comparable US product) is a recently developed antiestrogen with significant activity against metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. We investigated its usefulness in breast cancer patients after conventional endocrine therapy and combination chemotherapy had failed. Of the 50 evaluable patients, four (8%) achieved a complete remission, 14 (28%) achieved a partial remission, and ten showed a less than partial response or stabilization of their disease. Median duration of response was eight months, and the survival of responders was significantly prolonged compared to that of the nonresponders. Side effects of the treatment were mild. These results demonstrate that tamoxifen offers the best choice of therapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer after conventional endocrine therapy and combination chemotherapy have failed.", "contents": "Tamoxifen. Use in treatment of metastatic breast cancer refractory to combination chemotherapy. Tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex [Great Britain]; no comparable US product) is a recently developed antiestrogen with significant activity against metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. We investigated its usefulness in breast cancer patients after conventional endocrine therapy and combination chemotherapy had failed. Of the 50 evaluable patients, four (8%) achieved a complete remission, 14 (28%) achieved a partial remission, and ten showed a less than partial response or stabilization of their disease. Median duration of response was eight months, and the survival of responders was significantly prolonged compared to that of the nonresponders. Side effects of the treatment were mild. These results demonstrate that tamoxifen offers the best choice of therapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer after conventional endocrine therapy and combination chemotherapy have failed.", "PMID": 448865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8838", "title": "A portable medical record system for the elderly.", "content": "A portable medical record system consisting of a bracelet and wallet card, was given to two groups of ambulatory, chronically ill, mentally clear, older patients. Group 1 included 23 patients discharged from a skilled nursing facility and treated in the community; group 2, 24 patients attending the outpatient department of an acute general teaching hospital. Biweekly follow-up telephone calls to patients and subsequent discussions with physicians demonstrated the usefulness of this system in predominantly nonemergency settings. Overall, the physicians noticed the bracelet during 46% of the visits and the wallet card during 28%. Group 2 physicians, however, noticed the bracelet and/or wallet card more frequently than did group 1 physicians. Reasons for the difference in recognition among the two groups and the implications for future use of a portable medical record system for the elderly are discussed.", "contents": "A portable medical record system for the elderly. A portable medical record system consisting of a bracelet and wallet card, was given to two groups of ambulatory, chronically ill, mentally clear, older patients. Group 1 included 23 patients discharged from a skilled nursing facility and treated in the community; group 2, 24 patients attending the outpatient department of an acute general teaching hospital. Biweekly follow-up telephone calls to patients and subsequent discussions with physicians demonstrated the usefulness of this system in predominantly nonemergency settings. Overall, the physicians noticed the bracelet during 46% of the visits and the wallet card during 28%. Group 2 physicians, however, noticed the bracelet and/or wallet card more frequently than did group 1 physicians. Reasons for the difference in recognition among the two groups and the implications for future use of a portable medical record system for the elderly are discussed.", "PMID": 448866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8839", "title": "Roentgenographic findings in infants with meconium aspiration syndrome.", "content": "Aspiration of meconium produces respiratory distress of various severity and outcome. To evaluate whether the initial chest roentgenogram (0 to 8 hours of age) can be used to predict the outcome, an analysis of 80 cases with clinical and roentgenographic features of aspiration syndrome was undertaken. Infiltration was seen in 62, consolidation or atelectasis in 44, hyperinflation in 37, air leak in 25, pleural effusion in 16, and increased cardiothymic shadow in 16. Consolidation or atelectasis, most commonly associated with thick meconium aspiration, appeared to be the most significant determinant of poor outcome. Infants who had consolidation or atelectasis were more ill, had lower pH, higher fraction of inspired oxygen, higher alveolar-arterial oxygen gradients, and required longer duration of oxygen intake than those infants who had no consolidation or atelectasis. Thus, the initial chest roentgenogram can be used for predicting outcome in infants with meconium aspiration syndrome.", "contents": "Roentgenographic findings in infants with meconium aspiration syndrome. Aspiration of meconium produces respiratory distress of various severity and outcome. To evaluate whether the initial chest roentgenogram (0 to 8 hours of age) can be used to predict the outcome, an analysis of 80 cases with clinical and roentgenographic features of aspiration syndrome was undertaken. Infiltration was seen in 62, consolidation or atelectasis in 44, hyperinflation in 37, air leak in 25, pleural effusion in 16, and increased cardiothymic shadow in 16. Consolidation or atelectasis, most commonly associated with thick meconium aspiration, appeared to be the most significant determinant of poor outcome. Infants who had consolidation or atelectasis were more ill, had lower pH, higher fraction of inspired oxygen, higher alveolar-arterial oxygen gradients, and required longer duration of oxygen intake than those infants who had no consolidation or atelectasis. Thus, the initial chest roentgenogram can be used for predicting outcome in infants with meconium aspiration syndrome.", "PMID": 448867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8840", "title": "Burns. I. Assessment.", "content": "The emergency department treatment of burn injuries requires a thorough evaluation of extent and depth of injury and an understanding of the pathophysiology involved. Fluid resuscitation must be instituted promptly and pursued vigorously. Other aspects of resuscitation demand varying priorities in different patients. Small wounds can be cared for on an outpatient basis, but patients with larger burns or those involving important functional areas should be admitted for inpatient care.", "contents": "Burns. I. Assessment. The emergency department treatment of burn injuries requires a thorough evaluation of extent and depth of injury and an understanding of the pathophysiology involved. Fluid resuscitation must be instituted promptly and pursued vigorously. Other aspects of resuscitation demand varying priorities in different patients. Small wounds can be cared for on an outpatient basis, but patients with larger burns or those involving important functional areas should be admitted for inpatient care.", "PMID": 448871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8841", "title": "Hereditary spherocytosis with normal osmotic fragility after incubation. Is the autohemolysis test really obsolete?", "content": "Two patients in two families had hereditary spherocytosis but lacked a population of RBCs with increased osmotic fragility after incubation. The diagnosis in each patient was confirmed by the presence of splenomegaly, spherocytosis, reticulocytosis, and abnormal autohemolysis corrected by glucose. Sodium flux studies showed increased sodium permeability of the RBC membrane in one patient and normal permeability in another. Hereditary spherocytosis was also present in three other family members of patient 2. The autohemolysis test is of value in confirming the diagnosis in patients with hereditary spherocytosis and normal incubated osmotic fragility.", "contents": "Hereditary spherocytosis with normal osmotic fragility after incubation. Is the autohemolysis test really obsolete? Two patients in two families had hereditary spherocytosis but lacked a population of RBCs with increased osmotic fragility after incubation. The diagnosis in each patient was confirmed by the presence of splenomegaly, spherocytosis, reticulocytosis, and abnormal autohemolysis corrected by glucose. Sodium flux studies showed increased sodium permeability of the RBC membrane in one patient and normal permeability in another. Hereditary spherocytosis was also present in three other family members of patient 2. The autohemolysis test is of value in confirming the diagnosis in patients with hereditary spherocytosis and normal incubated osmotic fragility.", "PMID": 448868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8842", "title": "Exertional heatstroke in novice runners.", "content": "Heatstroke occurred in four apparently normal but inexperienced runners who were involved in road races of 10, 16, 32, and 42 km. Each of the runners attempted to increase his running pace by approximately 1 min/km during the last 5 km of the race. Symptoms of heatstroke occurred within five to ten minutes of the onset of increased effort. In three cases, environmental conditions (temperatures, 24 to 26 degrees C) were contributory. Specific guidelines and instructions are needed for inexperienced runners who enter distance road races.", "contents": "Exertional heatstroke in novice runners. Heatstroke occurred in four apparently normal but inexperienced runners who were involved in road races of 10, 16, 32, and 42 km. Each of the runners attempted to increase his running pace by approximately 1 min/km during the last 5 km of the race. Symptoms of heatstroke occurred within five to ten minutes of the onset of increased effort. In three cases, environmental conditions (temperatures, 24 to 26 degrees C) were contributory. Specific guidelines and instructions are needed for inexperienced runners who enter distance road races.", "PMID": 448888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8843", "title": "Hypophosphatemia in hospitalized patients.", "content": "Hypophosphatemia is common in hospitalized patients and occurs under a variety of circumstances other than parathyroid hormone excess. Charts of 100 inpatients with hypophosphatemia were reviewed and the patients divided into five groups on the basis of serum phosphate level: 18, 2.1 to 2.4 mg/dL; 49, 1.6 to 2.0 mg/dL; 20, 1.1 to 1.5 mg/dL; 12, 0.6 to 1.0 mg/dL; 1, 0.1 to 0.5 mg/dL. The effect of glucose ingestion on serum phosphate level was shown in one normal patient. Whenever carbohydrate was administered intravenously (45 cases), this was considered the primary cause of the hypophosphatemia. Other causes were as follows: diuretics, hyperalimentation, alcoholism, respiratory alkalosis, dialysis, insulin, corticosteroids, diabetic ketoacidosis, vomiting, phosphate-binding antacid, Gram-negative sepsis, primary hyperparathyroidism, saline, epinephrine, gastrointestinal malabsorption, and unknown. Hypophosphatemia in hospitalized patients may have multiple causes.", "contents": "Hypophosphatemia in hospitalized patients. Hypophosphatemia is common in hospitalized patients and occurs under a variety of circumstances other than parathyroid hormone excess. Charts of 100 inpatients with hypophosphatemia were reviewed and the patients divided into five groups on the basis of serum phosphate level: 18, 2.1 to 2.4 mg/dL; 49, 1.6 to 2.0 mg/dL; 20, 1.1 to 1.5 mg/dL; 12, 0.6 to 1.0 mg/dL; 1, 0.1 to 0.5 mg/dL. The effect of glucose ingestion on serum phosphate level was shown in one normal patient. Whenever carbohydrate was administered intravenously (45 cases), this was considered the primary cause of the hypophosphatemia. Other causes were as follows: diuretics, hyperalimentation, alcoholism, respiratory alkalosis, dialysis, insulin, corticosteroids, diabetic ketoacidosis, vomiting, phosphate-binding antacid, Gram-negative sepsis, primary hyperparathyroidism, saline, epinephrine, gastrointestinal malabsorption, and unknown. Hypophosphatemia in hospitalized patients may have multiple causes.", "PMID": 448890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8844", "title": "Selective transsphenoidal adenomectomy in women with galactorrhea-amenorrhea.", "content": "Thirty women with prolactin (PRL)-secreting adenomas underwent selective adenomectomy via a transsphenoidal route. All had abnormal sella polytomes or visual fields, amenorrhea with low basal serum gonadotropin levels despite decreased serum estradiol concentrations, and elevated basal serum PRL levels with blunted PRL response to neuroendocrine stimulation tests )thyrotropin-releasing hormone, levodopa, chlorpromazine, and hypoglycemia). Of 17 patients with microadenomas, 14 (82.4%) were cured and three (17.6%) improved. None were unchanged or worse. Three (60%) of five patients with larger, but still intrasellar tumors, had normalization of PRL levels, return of menses, and resolution of galactorrhea. The patients with tumors extending out of the sella did not fare as well. Overall, 21 (70%) were cured, six (20%) improved, two (6.7%) were unchanged, and the condition of one (3.3%) became worse. All preoperative neurologic deficits resolved. Postoperative complications were minimal with no neurologic morbidity. When tumors are small, surgical results are excellent with minimal risk.", "contents": "Selective transsphenoidal adenomectomy in women with galactorrhea-amenorrhea. Thirty women with prolactin (PRL)-secreting adenomas underwent selective adenomectomy via a transsphenoidal route. All had abnormal sella polytomes or visual fields, amenorrhea with low basal serum gonadotropin levels despite decreased serum estradiol concentrations, and elevated basal serum PRL levels with blunted PRL response to neuroendocrine stimulation tests )thyrotropin-releasing hormone, levodopa, chlorpromazine, and hypoglycemia). Of 17 patients with microadenomas, 14 (82.4%) were cured and three (17.6%) improved. None were unchanged or worse. Three (60%) of five patients with larger, but still intrasellar tumors, had normalization of PRL levels, return of menses, and resolution of galactorrhea. The patients with tumors extending out of the sella did not fare as well. Overall, 21 (70%) were cured, six (20%) improved, two (6.7%) were unchanged, and the condition of one (3.3%) became worse. All preoperative neurologic deficits resolved. Postoperative complications were minimal with no neurologic morbidity. When tumors are small, surgical results are excellent with minimal risk.", "PMID": 448889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8845", "title": "Studies of amygdalin (laetrile) toxicity in rodents.", "content": "Amygdalin (laetrile), given to Fischer 344 rats in doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg intraperitoneally daily for five days, caused mortalities of 30.8% 44.1%, and 56.8%, respectively. The mode of death and the elevated serum cyanide levels in the dying animals strongly suggested cyanide poisoning as the cause of death. These findings seriously question the use of amygdalin in clinical medicine under any circumstances.", "contents": "Studies of amygdalin (laetrile) toxicity in rodents. Amygdalin (laetrile), given to Fischer 344 rats in doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg intraperitoneally daily for five days, caused mortalities of 30.8% 44.1%, and 56.8%, respectively. The mode of death and the elevated serum cyanide levels in the dying animals strongly suggested cyanide poisoning as the cause of death. These findings seriously question the use of amygdalin in clinical medicine under any circumstances.", "PMID": 448892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8846", "title": "Treatment of circulatory shock with dopamine. Studies on survival.", "content": "Therapeutic effects of dopamine hydrochloride on the peripheral and metabolic defects of shock were investigated in 34 patients with circulatory shock associated with myocardial infarction, bacteremia, or hypovolemia. Severity of the circulatory defect characterized by hypotension, reduced cardiac output, oliguria, and notably reduced skin (toe) temperature before treatment with dopamine was not directly related to survival. However, the arterial blood concentration of lactate before treatment with dopamine indicated the likelihood of survival. Patients who ultimately survived following treatment with dopamine had normal or only mildly elevated levels of arterial blood lactate before therapy. No patients with established shock states in whom perfusion failure was associated with substantial increases in the level of arterial blood lactate survived regardless of treatment with dopamine. Increases in toe temperature during dopamine treatment also emerged as a uniquely good indicator of favorable outcome during therapy.", "contents": "Treatment of circulatory shock with dopamine. Studies on survival. Therapeutic effects of dopamine hydrochloride on the peripheral and metabolic defects of shock were investigated in 34 patients with circulatory shock associated with myocardial infarction, bacteremia, or hypovolemia. Severity of the circulatory defect characterized by hypotension, reduced cardiac output, oliguria, and notably reduced skin (toe) temperature before treatment with dopamine was not directly related to survival. However, the arterial blood concentration of lactate before treatment with dopamine indicated the likelihood of survival. Patients who ultimately survived following treatment with dopamine had normal or only mildly elevated levels of arterial blood lactate before therapy. No patients with established shock states in whom perfusion failure was associated with substantial increases in the level of arterial blood lactate survived regardless of treatment with dopamine. Increases in toe temperature during dopamine treatment also emerged as a uniquely good indicator of favorable outcome during therapy.", "PMID": 448891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8847", "title": "The aging thyroid. Increased prevalence of elevated serum thyrotropin levels in the elderly.", "content": "Of 344 relatively healthy persons older than 60 years, 22 (5.9%) had a clearly elevated level of serum thyrotropin (TSH) (greater than 10 muU/mL), a finding more common in women than in men. Ten of the 22 had low values for serum thyroxine (T4) and free T4 (FT4) index, but only one had a low value for serum triiodothyronine (T3) or free T3 (FT3) index. A further 14.4% had a slightly elevated level of serum TSH (greater than 5 less than or equal to 10 muU/mL), but none had low values for serum T4 or FT4 index. Age alone has little effect on the measurements of T4; age is associated with slightly lower T3 levels, but only in men 60 years or older or in women 80 years or older. Longitudinal studies should determine if a slightly elevated serum TSH rises further with age and if there is a causal relationship between a high level of serum TSH and cardiovascular disease.", "contents": "The aging thyroid. Increased prevalence of elevated serum thyrotropin levels in the elderly. Of 344 relatively healthy persons older than 60 years, 22 (5.9%) had a clearly elevated level of serum thyrotropin (TSH) (greater than 10 muU/mL), a finding more common in women than in men. Ten of the 22 had low values for serum thyroxine (T4) and free T4 (FT4) index, but only one had a low value for serum triiodothyronine (T3) or free T3 (FT3) index. A further 14.4% had a slightly elevated level of serum TSH (greater than 5 less than or equal to 10 muU/mL), but none had low values for serum T4 or FT4 index. Age alone has little effect on the measurements of T4; age is associated with slightly lower T3 levels, but only in men 60 years or older or in women 80 years or older. Longitudinal studies should determine if a slightly elevated serum TSH rises further with age and if there is a causal relationship between a high level of serum TSH and cardiovascular disease.", "PMID": 448912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8848", "title": "The diagnostic dilemma of isolated hyperthyroxinemia in acute illness.", "content": "Eighteen patients with a variety of illnesses but no history of thyroid disease were shown to have elevated serum total and free thyroxine (T4) concentrations but low serum total triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Thyroid function tests were requested initially to excluded the possibility of hyperthyroidism in a setting of hypermetabolism. Clinical and laboratory follow-up investigations demonstrated that 15 patients were euthyroid and that hormonal alterations were transient features of the intercurrent illnesses. Three patients did, in fact, have hyperthyroidism. Retrospective analysis of diagnostic data demonstrated that of the initial thyroid function screening tests, serum total T3 concentration, the T3/TF4 ratio, and the indirectly measured free T3 (FT3) index were the most useful parameters in excluding hyperthyroidism. The FT3 index was the most helpful, being normal or low in all the euthyroid and high in each of the hyperthyroid patients.", "contents": "The diagnostic dilemma of isolated hyperthyroxinemia in acute illness. Eighteen patients with a variety of illnesses but no history of thyroid disease were shown to have elevated serum total and free thyroxine (T4) concentrations but low serum total triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Thyroid function tests were requested initially to excluded the possibility of hyperthyroidism in a setting of hypermetabolism. Clinical and laboratory follow-up investigations demonstrated that 15 patients were euthyroid and that hormonal alterations were transient features of the intercurrent illnesses. Three patients did, in fact, have hyperthyroidism. Retrospective analysis of diagnostic data demonstrated that of the initial thyroid function screening tests, serum total T3 concentration, the T3/TF4 ratio, and the indirectly measured free T3 (FT3) index were the most useful parameters in excluding hyperthyroidism. The FT3 index was the most helpful, being normal or low in all the euthyroid and high in each of the hyperthyroid patients.", "PMID": 448913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8849", "title": "Endometrial cancer in relation to patterns of menopausal estrogen use.", "content": "Female residents of King County, Washington, in whom endometrial cancer developed between January 1975 and April 1976 were interviewed concerning prior use of menopausal estrogens. Their responses were compared with those of a random sample of women from the same population. Among current estrogen users, endometrial cancer risk was strongly related to duration of use; although only a minimal elevation of risk was present during the first two years, there was a rapid rise to a 20-fold excess after about ten to 15 years. Cessation of estrogen use led to a decline in incidence of endometrial cancer within several years, but the risk remained higher than in nonusers through the first decade after administration of the drug was stopped. Risk was elevated whether or not the regimen was cyclic and whether conjugated or other types of estrogens had been used. Dosages of less than 0.625 mg/day of conjugated estrogens produced a smaller increase in risk than did other dosages.", "contents": "Endometrial cancer in relation to patterns of menopausal estrogen use. Female residents of King County, Washington, in whom endometrial cancer developed between January 1975 and April 1976 were interviewed concerning prior use of menopausal estrogens. Their responses were compared with those of a random sample of women from the same population. Among current estrogen users, endometrial cancer risk was strongly related to duration of use; although only a minimal elevation of risk was present during the first two years, there was a rapid rise to a 20-fold excess after about ten to 15 years. Cessation of estrogen use led to a decline in incidence of endometrial cancer within several years, but the risk remained higher than in nonusers through the first decade after administration of the drug was stopped. Risk was elevated whether or not the regimen was cyclic and whether conjugated or other types of estrogens had been used. Dosages of less than 0.625 mg/day of conjugated estrogens produced a smaller increase in risk than did other dosages.", "PMID": 448915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8850", "title": "Thyroid function screening in psychiatric patients.", "content": "Abnormalities in levels of total thyroxine and thyroxine binding capacity were common in a group of 480 newly admitted psychiatric patients. The estimated free thyroxine (EFT4) level was elevated in 43 patients (9%). In 27 of these patients, the level of EFT4 became spontaneously normal, usually within a two-week period (acute \"stress hyperthyroidism\"). The level of EFT4 was decreased in 42 patients (9%). In 16 of these patients, the level became spontaneously normal; the etiology of this apparent acute hypolhyroidism is unclear. The yield of new cases of primary hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism was low, but a presumptive diagnosis of secondary hypothyroidism was made in eight patients. In addition, nine patients with known thyroid disease were taking inadequate or excessive replacement therapy. Thyroid function screening tests are of value in psychiatric patients.", "contents": "Thyroid function screening in psychiatric patients. Abnormalities in levels of total thyroxine and thyroxine binding capacity were common in a group of 480 newly admitted psychiatric patients. The estimated free thyroxine (EFT4) level was elevated in 43 patients (9%). In 27 of these patients, the level of EFT4 became spontaneously normal, usually within a two-week period (acute \"stress hyperthyroidism\"). The level of EFT4 was decreased in 42 patients (9%). In 16 of these patients, the level became spontaneously normal; the etiology of this apparent acute hypolhyroidism is unclear. The yield of new cases of primary hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism was low, but a presumptive diagnosis of secondary hypothyroidism was made in eight patients. In addition, nine patients with known thyroid disease were taking inadequate or excessive replacement therapy. Thyroid function screening tests are of value in psychiatric patients.", "PMID": 448914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8851", "title": "Elevation of serum lactate dehydrogenase levels in renal infarction.", "content": "The diagnostic value of a strikingly elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in association with only small or no increases in SGOT and alkaline phosphatase levels was noted in five patients with proved renal infarction. Four had renal artery embolism and infarction in association with atrial arrhythmias; one had an acute extension of an abdominal aortic aneurysm occluding the renal artery. Other causes of a considerable isolated increase in the serum LDH level such as hemolysis and myocardial infarction can usually be easily excluded.", "contents": "Elevation of serum lactate dehydrogenase levels in renal infarction. The diagnostic value of a strikingly elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in association with only small or no increases in SGOT and alkaline phosphatase levels was noted in five patients with proved renal infarction. Four had renal artery embolism and infarction in association with atrial arrhythmias; one had an acute extension of an abdominal aortic aneurysm occluding the renal artery. Other causes of a considerable isolated increase in the serum LDH level such as hemolysis and myocardial infarction can usually be easily excluded.", "PMID": 448917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8852", "title": "Hyperthyroidism due to functioning metastatic thyroid carcinoma. Precipitation of thyroid storm with therapeutic radioactive iodine.", "content": "Two patients had hyperthyroidism secondary to functioning metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma. Failure to control the thyrotoxic state with antithyroid drugs in one patient prior to treatment with radioactive iodine led to exacerbation of the thyrotoxicosis with thyroid storm and death. A second patient, in whom a euthyroid state was induced before radioactive iodine therapy, had a benign posttreatment course. Radioactive iodine therapy of functioning metastatic thyroid carcinoma should be administered with caution and only after adequate preparation of the elderly patient with cardiovascular disease.", "contents": "Hyperthyroidism due to functioning metastatic thyroid carcinoma. Precipitation of thyroid storm with therapeutic radioactive iodine. Two patients had hyperthyroidism secondary to functioning metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma. Failure to control the thyrotoxic state with antithyroid drugs in one patient prior to treatment with radioactive iodine led to exacerbation of the thyrotoxicosis with thyroid storm and death. A second patient, in whom a euthyroid state was induced before radioactive iodine therapy, had a benign posttreatment course. Radioactive iodine therapy of functioning metastatic thyroid carcinoma should be administered with caution and only after adequate preparation of the elderly patient with cardiovascular disease.", "PMID": 448918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8853", "title": "Lithium carbonate-induced hypothyroidism. Its many faces.", "content": "The correct diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be difficult, especially if it occurs in association with conditions producing similar manifestations. This point is illustrated by the presentation of three cases of lithium carbonate-induced hypothyroidism.", "contents": "Lithium carbonate-induced hypothyroidism. Its many faces. The correct diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be difficult, especially if it occurs in association with conditions producing similar manifestations. This point is illustrated by the presentation of three cases of lithium carbonate-induced hypothyroidism.", "PMID": 448919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8854", "title": "Cutaneous Rhizopus infection. Occurrence as a postoperative complication associated with an elasticized adhesive dressing.", "content": "A 29-year-0ld woman in good health except for scoliosis suffered severe sequelae during the postoperative course for placement of a Harrington rod. A cutaneous Rhizopus infection in and about the incision site was attributed to the use of a contaminated elasticized adhesive (Elastoplast) dressing. The comtamination was established as a nosocomial problem, which is extremely difficult to control. The extent of the infection, subsequent long recovery course, and remarkable sequelae make this case unusual.", "contents": "Cutaneous Rhizopus infection. Occurrence as a postoperative complication associated with an elasticized adhesive dressing. A 29-year-0ld woman in good health except for scoliosis suffered severe sequelae during the postoperative course for placement of a Harrington rod. A cutaneous Rhizopus infection in and about the incision site was attributed to the use of a contaminated elasticized adhesive (Elastoplast) dressing. The comtamination was established as a nosocomial problem, which is extremely difficult to control. The extent of the infection, subsequent long recovery course, and remarkable sequelae make this case unusual.", "PMID": 448920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8855", "title": "Mexiletine. Use in control of chronic drug-resistant ventricular arrhythmia.", "content": "The antiarrhythmic efficacy of mexiletine hydrochloride was studied in ten selected patients with stable resistant ventricular ectopic activity in whom lidocaine, procainamide, and other antiarrhythmic agents were of no avail. Continuous Holter ECG tapes were analyzed before, during, and after mexiletine. Orally administered mexiletine was found to be very effective in treatment of drug-resistant ventricular arrhythmias, with total abolition of arrhythmia in six and satisfactory control in two additional patients. Long-term follow-up confirmed maintenance of antiarrhythmic efficacy, while biochemical and hematological screening demonstrated no abnormalities. The long therapeutic half-life of the drug allowed convenient dosage schedule and good compliance. Its efficacy, low frequency of side effects, and long half-life make it an agent of notable value in suppressing ventricular arrhythmias.", "contents": "Mexiletine. Use in control of chronic drug-resistant ventricular arrhythmia. The antiarrhythmic efficacy of mexiletine hydrochloride was studied in ten selected patients with stable resistant ventricular ectopic activity in whom lidocaine, procainamide, and other antiarrhythmic agents were of no avail. Continuous Holter ECG tapes were analyzed before, during, and after mexiletine. Orally administered mexiletine was found to be very effective in treatment of drug-resistant ventricular arrhythmias, with total abolition of arrhythmia in six and satisfactory control in two additional patients. Long-term follow-up confirmed maintenance of antiarrhythmic efficacy, while biochemical and hematological screening demonstrated no abnormalities. The long therapeutic half-life of the drug allowed convenient dosage schedule and good compliance. Its efficacy, low frequency of side effects, and long half-life make it an agent of notable value in suppressing ventricular arrhythmias.", "PMID": 448936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8856", "title": "Do condom catheter collecting systems cause urinary tract infection?", "content": "A study was undertaken to determine whether use of a condom catheter collection system (CCCS) is associated with urinary tract infection (UTI). No UTI developed in 79 episodes of CCCS use in patients who were cooperative or because of paralysis were unable to manipulate the collecting system (mean time per patient, 21.2 days; total number of patient days, 1,677). By contrast, in 15 patients who were identified prospectively as being uncooperative and who repeatedly manipulated the CCS, UTI developed in eight (53.3%) within a mean of 9.6 days. Urethral catheterization in cooperative patients during CCCS use was followed by development of UTI. Repeated interference with the proper use of CCCS and urethral catheterization during CCCS use are associated with an increased risk of UTI.", "contents": "Do condom catheter collecting systems cause urinary tract infection? A study was undertaken to determine whether use of a condom catheter collection system (CCCS) is associated with urinary tract infection (UTI). No UTI developed in 79 episodes of CCCS use in patients who were cooperative or because of paralysis were unable to manipulate the collecting system (mean time per patient, 21.2 days; total number of patient days, 1,677). By contrast, in 15 patients who were identified prospectively as being uncooperative and who repeatedly manipulated the CCS, UTI developed in eight (53.3%) within a mean of 9.6 days. Urethral catheterization in cooperative patients during CCCS use was followed by development of UTI. Repeated interference with the proper use of CCCS and urethral catheterization during CCCS use are associated with an increased risk of UTI.", "PMID": 448937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8857", "title": "Diagnostic imaging procedures in acute pancreatitis. Comparison of ultrasound, intravenous cholangiography, and oral cholecystography.", "content": "To evaluate the role of intravenous cholangiography (IVC), ultrasound andoral cholecystography in the diagnosis of gallstone pancreatitis, 20 patients with acute pancreatitis were studied during the first three days of an attack. The IVC successfully demonstrated the common bile duct and gallbladder in 17 (85%) 20 patients. The ultrasound studies showed the gallbladder in all 18 patients in whom the gallbladder was present. The common duct was not seen by ultrasound in any patient and the pancreas was abnormal in all patients. In the three patients with gallbladder stones these were identified on both IVC and ultrasound. Common duct stones in three patients were seen only by IVC (two of these patients had concurrent gallbladder stones and one after cholecystectomy). Oral cholecystography was of limited usefulness, although the 50% visualization rate was higher than the literature suggests.", "contents": "Diagnostic imaging procedures in acute pancreatitis. Comparison of ultrasound, intravenous cholangiography, and oral cholecystography. To evaluate the role of intravenous cholangiography (IVC), ultrasound andoral cholecystography in the diagnosis of gallstone pancreatitis, 20 patients with acute pancreatitis were studied during the first three days of an attack. The IVC successfully demonstrated the common bile duct and gallbladder in 17 (85%) 20 patients. The ultrasound studies showed the gallbladder in all 18 patients in whom the gallbladder was present. The common duct was not seen by ultrasound in any patient and the pancreas was abnormal in all patients. In the three patients with gallbladder stones these were identified on both IVC and ultrasound. Common duct stones in three patients were seen only by IVC (two of these patients had concurrent gallbladder stones and one after cholecystectomy). Oral cholecystography was of limited usefulness, although the 50% visualization rate was higher than the literature suggests.", "PMID": 448938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8858", "title": "Diazepam and drug-associated deaths. A survey in the United States and Canada.", "content": "This study describes a population of deceased persons in which death was generally caused by ingestion of numerous drugs, of which diazepam was only one agent. This drug occurred with high frequency relative to the total case load at each site, but its toxicological importance was often of a low order, and its role in the fatal cases was judged as minimal.", "contents": "Diazepam and drug-associated deaths. A survey in the United States and Canada. This study describes a population of deceased persons in which death was generally caused by ingestion of numerous drugs, of which diazepam was only one agent. This drug occurred with high frequency relative to the total case load at each site, but its toxicological importance was often of a low order, and its role in the fatal cases was judged as minimal.", "PMID": 448958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8859", "title": "Erythromycin for anaerobic pleuropulmonary and soft-tissue infections.", "content": "Erythromycin has been reported to be active in vitro against most anaerobic bacteria. We found it effective in treating 14 of 17 patients with mild to moderately severe anaerobic or mixed aerobic/anaerobic pleuropulmonary of soft-tissue infections when adjunctive measures (eg, drainage, d\u00e9bridement, and the use of additional antibiotics to treat important aerobic pathogens) were employed. Erythromycin offers a reasonable therapeutic alternative to penicillin in the treatment of a penicillin-allergic patient who has a mild or moderately severe anaerobic or mixed aerobic/anaerobic infection not involving Bacteroides fragilis or fusobacteria.", "contents": "Erythromycin for anaerobic pleuropulmonary and soft-tissue infections. Erythromycin has been reported to be active in vitro against most anaerobic bacteria. We found it effective in treating 14 of 17 patients with mild to moderately severe anaerobic or mixed aerobic/anaerobic pleuropulmonary of soft-tissue infections when adjunctive measures (eg, drainage, d\u00e9bridement, and the use of additional antibiotics to treat important aerobic pathogens) were employed. Erythromycin offers a reasonable therapeutic alternative to penicillin in the treatment of a penicillin-allergic patient who has a mild or moderately severe anaerobic or mixed aerobic/anaerobic infection not involving Bacteroides fragilis or fusobacteria.", "PMID": 448959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8860", "title": "Improved life expectancy for children with exstrophy of the bladder.", "content": "Life-table techniques demonstrate a 98% ten-year survival, a 96% 20-year survival, and 91% 35-year survival of children with exstrophy of the bladder. These figures represent a vast improvement over the earlier figures, due in large part to technical advances that have been made in areas of surgery, anesthesia, and antibacterial and metabolic therapy.", "contents": "Improved life expectancy for children with exstrophy of the bladder. Life-table techniques demonstrate a 98% ten-year survival, a 96% 20-year survival, and 91% 35-year survival of children with exstrophy of the bladder. These figures represent a vast improvement over the earlier figures, due in large part to technical advances that have been made in areas of surgery, anesthesia, and antibacterial and metabolic therapy.", "PMID": 448960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8861", "title": "Digoxin-prescribing. Mostly good news.", "content": "We examined digoxin-prescribing in 47,000 prescriptions written predominantly by physicians in a large family medicine practice. Two hundred fifty-four patients received 511 digoxin prescriptions. Dose adjustments for age (16% decrease in patients older than 64 years), for renal disease (33% decrease), and for atrial fibrillation (39% increase) followed good prescribing practices. Appropriately lower loading doses were used for digitalization. However, despite continuing concern over the bioavailability of generic digoxin tablets, less than 40% of digoxin prescriptions in this study were written for the innovator's brand-name product (Lanoxin).", "contents": "Digoxin-prescribing. Mostly good news. We examined digoxin-prescribing in 47,000 prescriptions written predominantly by physicians in a large family medicine practice. Two hundred fifty-four patients received 511 digoxin prescriptions. Dose adjustments for age (16% decrease in patients older than 64 years), for renal disease (33% decrease), and for atrial fibrillation (39% increase) followed good prescribing practices. Appropriately lower loading doses were used for digitalization. However, despite continuing concern over the bioavailability of generic digoxin tablets, less than 40% of digoxin prescriptions in this study were written for the innovator's brand-name product (Lanoxin).", "PMID": 448961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8862", "title": "Response of bladder and urethral mucosa to catheterization.", "content": "Short-term urinary bladder drainage with the use of urethral Foley catheters is practiced frequently in hospitals throughout the country. We studied the urethral and bladder cellular proliferation after exposure to latex, silicone-coated latex, and 100% silicone catheters. Fifty-one male patients were studied; no differences in acute cellular reaction could be detected among the three different catheter materials. Promotion of all-silicone products in hospital use may be unwarranted.", "contents": "Response of bladder and urethral mucosa to catheterization. Short-term urinary bladder drainage with the use of urethral Foley catheters is practiced frequently in hospitals throughout the country. We studied the urethral and bladder cellular proliferation after exposure to latex, silicone-coated latex, and 100% silicone catheters. Fifty-one male patients were studied; no differences in acute cellular reaction could be detected among the three different catheter materials. Promotion of all-silicone products in hospital use may be unwarranted.", "PMID": 448963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8863", "title": "Phototoxicity. The neglected factor.", "content": "Ignorance of phototoxicity by the general biomedical community constitutes a health hazard. Certain food colorants and dyes proposed for use in angiography produce lethal effects in cells and whole organisms on light exposure but not in the dark. Yet-light-relatedness is usually neglected in toxicity studies. We urge that the specific involvement of light be considered whenever the toxicity of a light-absorbing substance is assessed.", "contents": "Phototoxicity. The neglected factor. Ignorance of phototoxicity by the general biomedical community constitutes a health hazard. Certain food colorants and dyes proposed for use in angiography produce lethal effects in cells and whole organisms on light exposure but not in the dark. Yet-light-relatedness is usually neglected in toxicity studies. We urge that the specific involvement of light be considered whenever the toxicity of a light-absorbing substance is assessed.", "PMID": 448964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8864", "title": "Inflicted burns in children. Recognition and treatment.", "content": "Inflicted burns are an essential part of the battered child syndrome. One hundred forty-two nonaccidental burns (16%) were found in 872 children admitted to the burn center at the Children's Hospital of Michigan during the six-year period (1972 to 1977). Of the 1,518 cases of child abuse treated during this period, 9% were caused by intentional burns. Family instability and an inability to deal with stress in crisis were important factors in the cause of these injuries.", "contents": "Inflicted burns in children. Recognition and treatment. Inflicted burns are an essential part of the battered child syndrome. One hundred forty-two nonaccidental burns (16%) were found in 872 children admitted to the burn center at the Children's Hospital of Michigan during the six-year period (1972 to 1977). Of the 1,518 cases of child abuse treated during this period, 9% were caused by intentional burns. Family instability and an inability to deal with stress in crisis were important factors in the cause of these injuries.", "PMID": 448982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8865", "title": "Screening for drug and alcohol abuse in a general medical population.", "content": "One hundred fifty consecutive, first-visit, general medical patients were simply and inexpensively screened by questionnaire, personal inquiry, and physical examination for drug and alcohol abuse. Seventeen (11.3%) currently used psychoactive drugs, excluding alcohol, and ten (6.7%) used drugs or alcohol on a daily basis to the point that the patient considered it an abuse problem. The majority of the drug and alcohol users recognized their problem on a short questionnaire that was part of a medical intake form. Almost all of the recognized abusers of drugs or alcohol subsequently entered treatment of their problem.", "contents": "Screening for drug and alcohol abuse in a general medical population. One hundred fifty consecutive, first-visit, general medical patients were simply and inexpensively screened by questionnaire, personal inquiry, and physical examination for drug and alcohol abuse. Seventeen (11.3%) currently used psychoactive drugs, excluding alcohol, and ten (6.7%) used drugs or alcohol on a daily basis to the point that the patient considered it an abuse problem. The majority of the drug and alcohol users recognized their problem on a short questionnaire that was part of a medical intake form. Almost all of the recognized abusers of drugs or alcohol subsequently entered treatment of their problem.", "PMID": 448985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8866", "title": "Bronchiolitis and bronchitis in connective tissue disease. A possible relationship to the use of penicillamine.", "content": "Rapid onset of severe and irreversbile airflow obstruction developed in two women. One had eosinophilic fasciitis and the other had rheumatoid arthritis. Both were treated with penicillamine. In the first patient, aged 42 years, dyspnea developed after six months of therapy. Her roentgenogram showed hyperinflation. Forced vital capacity expired in one second (FEV1/FVC%) decreased from 75% to 40%, and the residual volume increased by 1 L. In the second patient, aged 54 years, cough and dyspnea developed after ten months of therapy. The FEV1/FVC% was 56%, the FEV1 was 0.9 L, and the roentgenogram was normal. Lung biopsy specimens demonstrated severe and widespread bronchiolitis. An association between obliterative bronchiolitis and rheumatoid arthritis has been reported. Penicillamine may impair healing of bronchiolitis in such patients.", "contents": "Bronchiolitis and bronchitis in connective tissue disease. A possible relationship to the use of penicillamine. Rapid onset of severe and irreversbile airflow obstruction developed in two women. One had eosinophilic fasciitis and the other had rheumatoid arthritis. Both were treated with penicillamine. In the first patient, aged 42 years, dyspnea developed after six months of therapy. Her roentgenogram showed hyperinflation. Forced vital capacity expired in one second (FEV1/FVC%) decreased from 75% to 40%, and the residual volume increased by 1 L. In the second patient, aged 54 years, cough and dyspnea developed after ten months of therapy. The FEV1/FVC% was 56%, the FEV1 was 0.9 L, and the roentgenogram was normal. Lung biopsy specimens demonstrated severe and widespread bronchiolitis. An association between obliterative bronchiolitis and rheumatoid arthritis has been reported. Penicillamine may impair healing of bronchiolitis in such patients.", "PMID": 448984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8867", "title": "Carcinomatous lung abscess. Diagnosis by bronchoscopy and cytopathology.", "content": "We compared the roentgenographic, bronchoscopic, and cytopathologic findings from 26 patients with carcinomatous lung abscesses (23 of which were within the tumor) with findings from 31 patients with simple lung abscesses. Despite well-described roentgenographic characteristics of the carcinomatous abscess, differentiation from a simple abscess was frequently not possible. Direct visual findings at the time of bronchoscopy were not helpful in the absence of an endobronchial lesion. Using sputums and cytological specimens from a single fiberoptic bronchoscopy, a diagnosis was made by cytopathology on initial hospitalization in 22 (88%) of 25 patients with carcinoma. No false-positive cytological studies were reported in the nonmalignant group despite the frequent presence of inflammation and infection.", "contents": "Carcinomatous lung abscess. Diagnosis by bronchoscopy and cytopathology. We compared the roentgenographic, bronchoscopic, and cytopathologic findings from 26 patients with carcinomatous lung abscesses (23 of which were within the tumor) with findings from 31 patients with simple lung abscesses. Despite well-described roentgenographic characteristics of the carcinomatous abscess, differentiation from a simple abscess was frequently not possible. Direct visual findings at the time of bronchoscopy were not helpful in the absence of an endobronchial lesion. Using sputums and cytological specimens from a single fiberoptic bronchoscopy, a diagnosis was made by cytopathology on initial hospitalization in 22 (88%) of 25 patients with carcinoma. No false-positive cytological studies were reported in the nonmalignant group despite the frequent presence of inflammation and infection.", "PMID": 448983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8868", "title": "Norepinephrine-secreting tumor of the organ of Zuckerkandl. Response to propranolol alone.", "content": "A 24-year-old man with diagnosed pheochromocytoma of the organ of Zukerkandl, was successfully treated with propranolol hydrochloride to lower his blood pressure. In view of the positive response to propranolol, the patient was expected to have an epinephrine-secreting tumor. However, measurement of catecholamines showed that preoperative peripheral blood, vena caval samples from the tumor, intraoperative peripheral samples, and the tumor itself contained almost exclusively norephinephrine. A response of blood pressure to propranolol in a hypertensive patient does not rule out the possibility of a pheochromocytoma, even one with the usual norephinephrine predominance.", "contents": "Norepinephrine-secreting tumor of the organ of Zuckerkandl. Response to propranolol alone. A 24-year-old man with diagnosed pheochromocytoma of the organ of Zukerkandl, was successfully treated with propranolol hydrochloride to lower his blood pressure. In view of the positive response to propranolol, the patient was expected to have an epinephrine-secreting tumor. However, measurement of catecholamines showed that preoperative peripheral blood, vena caval samples from the tumor, intraoperative peripheral samples, and the tumor itself contained almost exclusively norephinephrine. A response of blood pressure to propranolol in a hypertensive patient does not rule out the possibility of a pheochromocytoma, even one with the usual norephinephrine predominance.", "PMID": 448987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8869", "title": "Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki disease) in adults.", "content": "Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome has been reported to occur only in children. Three adults aged 16 to 27 years had findings compatible with this illness. Patients with fever, polymorphous skin eruption, congested conjunctiva, reddened palms and soles, red lips and oral mucous membrane, and soft-tissue swelling of the peripheral extremities and who experience membranous desquamation of fingers and toes should be suspected of having mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. No laboratory test is currently available for confirmation of the diagnosis.", "contents": "Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki disease) in adults. Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome has been reported to occur only in children. Three adults aged 16 to 27 years had findings compatible with this illness. Patients with fever, polymorphous skin eruption, congested conjunctiva, reddened palms and soles, red lips and oral mucous membrane, and soft-tissue swelling of the peripheral extremities and who experience membranous desquamation of fingers and toes should be suspected of having mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. No laboratory test is currently available for confirmation of the diagnosis.", "PMID": 448988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8870", "title": "An algorithm for the operational assessment of adverse drug reactions. I. Background, description, and instructions for use.", "content": "Despite widespread clinical and epidemiologic attention to adverse drug reactions (ADRs), their clinical identification has been a nonreproducible act of unspecified subjective judgment; adequate operational criteria have not been available for diagnostic decisions about the cause of an observed untoward clinical manifestation. To improve scientific precision in the diagnosis of ADRs, we have developed an algorithm that provides detailed operational criteria for ranking the probability of causation when ADR is suspected between a drug and a clinical manifestation. The algorithm provides a scoring system for six axes of decision strategy: previous general experience with the drug, alternative etiologic candidates, timing of events, drug levels and evidence of overdose, dechallenge, and rechallenge. The sum of the scores is ordinally partitioned to rate the candidate ADR as definite, probable, possible, or unlikely.", "contents": "An algorithm for the operational assessment of adverse drug reactions. I. Background, description, and instructions for use. Despite widespread clinical and epidemiologic attention to adverse drug reactions (ADRs), their clinical identification has been a nonreproducible act of unspecified subjective judgment; adequate operational criteria have not been available for diagnostic decisions about the cause of an observed untoward clinical manifestation. To improve scientific precision in the diagnosis of ADRs, we have developed an algorithm that provides detailed operational criteria for ranking the probability of causation when ADR is suspected between a drug and a clinical manifestation. The algorithm provides a scoring system for six axes of decision strategy: previous general experience with the drug, alternative etiologic candidates, timing of events, drug levels and evidence of overdose, dechallenge, and rechallenge. The sum of the scores is ordinally partitioned to rate the candidate ADR as definite, probable, possible, or unlikely.", "PMID": 449002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8871", "title": "An algorithm for the operational assessment of adverse drug reactions. II. Demonstration of reproducibility and validity.", "content": "The reproducibility and validity of an algorithm for diagnosis of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were tested in a clinical spectrum of 30 suspect cases. Using a questionnaire derived from the algorithm the three algorithm developers (nonexperts) agreed on the probability of ADR in 67% of cases, with pair-wise agreement varying from 73% to 87%. The pair-wise agreement of two clinical pharmacologic experts rose from 47% without the algorithm to 63% with the algorithm, with Kw, a chance-corrected index of weighted agreement, increasing from 0.26 to 0.57. The algorithmic assessments of the three nonexperts agreed with expert consensus in 80% to 83% of cases. The ADR algorithm appears to provide a reproducible and valid method of evaluating the likelihood of ADRs in individual patients. Its use can help improve the diagnostic and epidemiologic approach to these important, complex clinical phenomena.", "contents": "An algorithm for the operational assessment of adverse drug reactions. II. Demonstration of reproducibility and validity. The reproducibility and validity of an algorithm for diagnosis of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were tested in a clinical spectrum of 30 suspect cases. Using a questionnaire derived from the algorithm the three algorithm developers (nonexperts) agreed on the probability of ADR in 67% of cases, with pair-wise agreement varying from 73% to 87%. The pair-wise agreement of two clinical pharmacologic experts rose from 47% without the algorithm to 63% with the algorithm, with Kw, a chance-corrected index of weighted agreement, increasing from 0.26 to 0.57. The algorithmic assessments of the three nonexperts agreed with expert consensus in 80% to 83% of cases. The ADR algorithm appears to provide a reproducible and valid method of evaluating the likelihood of ADRs in individual patients. Its use can help improve the diagnostic and epidemiologic approach to these important, complex clinical phenomena.", "PMID": 449003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8872", "title": "Measurement of plasma renin concentration using exogenous human renin substrate in normal subjects: correlation with plasma renin concentration and plasma aldosterone concentration.", "content": "Measurement of plasma renin concentration (PRC) was done in normal subjects at rest and under acute stimulation of renin release under unrestricted sodium intake. Concurrent measurements of plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone concentration (PA) were carried out. The mean values of PRC at rest and after stimulation of renin release were 12.8 +/- 1.3 (SEM) and 21.7 +/- 4.4 (SEM) ng AT I/ml/h, respectively. These corresponded to renin contents of 3.4 +/- 0.34 (SEM) X 10(-5) Goldblatt units and 5.8 +/- 0.36 (SEM) respectively. The mean percent increase of PRC (82.1 +/- 19.3 (SEM)) %) was almost indentical to that of PA (81.5 +/- 16.4 (SEM) %), but differed from that of PRA (269 +/- 83.1 (SEM) %). A very high correlation between concurrent PRC and PA (r = 0.92, P less than 0.001) was found in normal subjects at rest and under acute stimulation of renin release. A good correlation between PRC and PRA (r = 0.85, P less than 0.001) was also observed. However, a higher correlation between percent increases of PRC and PA (r = 0.92, P less than 0.001) than that of PRA and PA (r = 0.80, 0.01 less than P less than 0.005) was found. Results show that PRA is a good index of the renin content in plasma in normal subjects at rest and PRC reflects actual renin concentration in plasma at rest as well as under stimulation of renin release.", "contents": "Measurement of plasma renin concentration using exogenous human renin substrate in normal subjects: correlation with plasma renin concentration and plasma aldosterone concentration. Measurement of plasma renin concentration (PRC) was done in normal subjects at rest and under acute stimulation of renin release under unrestricted sodium intake. Concurrent measurements of plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone concentration (PA) were carried out. The mean values of PRC at rest and after stimulation of renin release were 12.8 +/- 1.3 (SEM) and 21.7 +/- 4.4 (SEM) ng AT I/ml/h, respectively. These corresponded to renin contents of 3.4 +/- 0.34 (SEM) X 10(-5) Goldblatt units and 5.8 +/- 0.36 (SEM) respectively. The mean percent increase of PRC (82.1 +/- 19.3 (SEM)) %) was almost indentical to that of PA (81.5 +/- 16.4 (SEM) %), but differed from that of PRA (269 +/- 83.1 (SEM) %). A very high correlation between concurrent PRC and PA (r = 0.92, P less than 0.001) was found in normal subjects at rest and under acute stimulation of renin release. A good correlation between PRC and PRA (r = 0.85, P less than 0.001) was also observed. However, a higher correlation between percent increases of PRC and PA (r = 0.92, P less than 0.001) than that of PRA and PA (r = 0.80, 0.01 less than P less than 0.005) was found. Results show that PRA is a good index of the renin content in plasma in normal subjects at rest and PRC reflects actual renin concentration in plasma at rest as well as under stimulation of renin release.", "PMID": 449010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8873", "title": "Acute arteriolar lesions of rat intestine caused by kidney extract.", "content": "Lysosomal fraction of renal cortical extract, which showed high renin activity, and equipressor dosis of synthetic angiotensin II amide were administered into one-hour nephrectomized rats. Sixty minutes after the sustained elevation of 20 mmHg in mean arterial pressure by each pressor substance, the rats were sacrificed and the intraperitoneal organs were fixed. Five minutes prior to the administration of each pressor substance ferritin solution, as a test substance for vascular permeability, was intravenously injected. Medial changes in the arterioles in the intestinal submucosa were observed by electron microscopy. In angiotensin II group early lytic lesions of the muscle cells were limited to the single muscle cells. Ferritin particles were rarely found in the media. In lysosomal fraction group the lytic lesions were more advanced. Some regions of the media exhibited focal loss of smooth muscle cells manifesting focal medial necrosis. Ferritin particles were distrubuted in some areas of the necrotic media. The results suggested that the kidney extract with high renin content contained substance(s) to produce both medial necrosis and plasma insudation into the media of the arterioles.", "contents": "Acute arteriolar lesions of rat intestine caused by kidney extract. Lysosomal fraction of renal cortical extract, which showed high renin activity, and equipressor dosis of synthetic angiotensin II amide were administered into one-hour nephrectomized rats. Sixty minutes after the sustained elevation of 20 mmHg in mean arterial pressure by each pressor substance, the rats were sacrificed and the intraperitoneal organs were fixed. Five minutes prior to the administration of each pressor substance ferritin solution, as a test substance for vascular permeability, was intravenously injected. Medial changes in the arterioles in the intestinal submucosa were observed by electron microscopy. In angiotensin II group early lytic lesions of the muscle cells were limited to the single muscle cells. Ferritin particles were rarely found in the media. In lysosomal fraction group the lytic lesions were more advanced. Some regions of the media exhibited focal loss of smooth muscle cells manifesting focal medial necrosis. Ferritin particles were distrubuted in some areas of the necrotic media. The results suggested that the kidney extract with high renin content contained substance(s) to produce both medial necrosis and plasma insudation into the media of the arterioles.", "PMID": 449011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8874", "title": "Effects of energy-containing nutrients on blood pressure of salt-loaded rats.", "content": "The present study was performed to investigate whether blood pressure of salt-loaded rats was influenced by the diet. Salt-loaded rats of Wistar strain were fed a high protein high fat diet or a high carbohydrate diet from the age of one month. The experiment was designed so that the intake of sodium chloride was equal in two groups. The body weight on the 14th week of the experiment was 394 +/- 15 g (Mean +/- SE) in the high protein high fat group, and 348 +/- 13 g in the high carbohydrate group. Blood pressure measured weekly by a tail plethysmographic method rose gradually and reached 176 +/- 5 mmHg (Mean +/- SE) on the 14th week in the high carbohydrate group. It was significantly higher than that (127 +/- 7 mmHg) of the high protein high fat group. The pressor responses to angiotensin and noradrenalin were also examined to investigate the mechanism through which salt hypertension was produced more easily by feeding a high carbohydrate diet. These responses to both drugs tended to be greater in the high carbohydrate group, but the differences between the two groups was not significant.", "contents": "Effects of energy-containing nutrients on blood pressure of salt-loaded rats. The present study was performed to investigate whether blood pressure of salt-loaded rats was influenced by the diet. Salt-loaded rats of Wistar strain were fed a high protein high fat diet or a high carbohydrate diet from the age of one month. The experiment was designed so that the intake of sodium chloride was equal in two groups. The body weight on the 14th week of the experiment was 394 +/- 15 g (Mean +/- SE) in the high protein high fat group, and 348 +/- 13 g in the high carbohydrate group. Blood pressure measured weekly by a tail plethysmographic method rose gradually and reached 176 +/- 5 mmHg (Mean +/- SE) on the 14th week in the high carbohydrate group. It was significantly higher than that (127 +/- 7 mmHg) of the high protein high fat group. The pressor responses to angiotensin and noradrenalin were also examined to investigate the mechanism through which salt hypertension was produced more easily by feeding a high carbohydrate diet. These responses to both drugs tended to be greater in the high carbohydrate group, but the differences between the two groups was not significant.", "PMID": 449012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8875", "title": "Blood pressure response to [1-sarcosine, 8-isoleucine] angiotensin II in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites.", "content": "[1-Sarcosine, 8-Isoleucine] angiotensin II was given to 8 patients with cirrhosis and ascites and 7 cirrhotic patients without ascites on a regular diet. The 3 ascitic patients with high plasma renin activity (PRA) gave a depressor response, but the other ascite patients with normal or low PRA gave a pressor response or no response. All the non-ascitic patients gave a pressor response. There was an inverse correlation between the PRA before infusion and the change in blood pressure induced by this compound. In the patient with the highest PRA, who had ascites of a few days' duration, a marked reduction in blood pressure was observed on infusion of this compound. These results suggest that the renin-angiotensin system might be involved in maintenance of a normal blood pressure in some patients with cirrhosis and ascites, whose ascites is presumably in an early stage.", "contents": "Blood pressure response to [1-sarcosine, 8-isoleucine] angiotensin II in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites. [1-Sarcosine, 8-Isoleucine] angiotensin II was given to 8 patients with cirrhosis and ascites and 7 cirrhotic patients without ascites on a regular diet. The 3 ascitic patients with high plasma renin activity (PRA) gave a depressor response, but the other ascite patients with normal or low PRA gave a pressor response or no response. All the non-ascitic patients gave a pressor response. There was an inverse correlation between the PRA before infusion and the change in blood pressure induced by this compound. In the patient with the highest PRA, who had ascites of a few days' duration, a marked reduction in blood pressure was observed on infusion of this compound. These results suggest that the renin-angiotensin system might be involved in maintenance of a normal blood pressure in some patients with cirrhosis and ascites, whose ascites is presumably in an early stage.", "PMID": 449013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8876", "title": "Acute aortic regurgitation with congestive heart failure due to bacterial endocarditis: diagnosed by echocardiogram and treated successfully by surgery (a case report).", "content": "A 23-year-old Japanese male with no evidence of previous heart disease was presented with bicuspid aortic valve and a life threatening acute aortic regurgitation due to subacute bacterial endocarditis. By echocardiographic techniques, a precise diagnosis was made based on the following findings: 1) premature mitral valve closure, 2) snowfall-like echoes between the systolic aortic cusps, 3) eccentricity of a diastolic aortic valvular echo. The echocardiographic diagnosis was confirmed on surgery, in which aortic valve replacement was performed with satisfactory postoperative results.", "contents": "Acute aortic regurgitation with congestive heart failure due to bacterial endocarditis: diagnosed by echocardiogram and treated successfully by surgery (a case report). A 23-year-old Japanese male with no evidence of previous heart disease was presented with bicuspid aortic valve and a life threatening acute aortic regurgitation due to subacute bacterial endocarditis. By echocardiographic techniques, a precise diagnosis was made based on the following findings: 1) premature mitral valve closure, 2) snowfall-like echoes between the systolic aortic cusps, 3) eccentricity of a diastolic aortic valvular echo. The echocardiographic diagnosis was confirmed on surgery, in which aortic valve replacement was performed with satisfactory postoperative results.", "PMID": 449016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8877", "title": "Cardiovascular function in chronic glomerulonephritis: mechanocardiographic study.", "content": "The relations between mechanocardiographic measurements, types of chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) and clinical data were examined in 70 cases of CGN (20 cases of the latent type, 6 cases of the nephritic type, 14 cases of the nephrotic type, 10 cases of the hypertensive type and 20 cases of the endstage). (1) In the different types of CGN, mechanocardiographic abnormalities increased in the order: latent type less than nephritic type less than nephrotic type less than hypertensive type less than endstage. (2) In the endstage, prolongations of ICT, ICT2 and PEP (p less than 0.01), shortening of LVET (p less than 0.05) and decrease of LVET/PEP (p less than 0.01) were observed. These abnormalities may be related to decreased myocardial contractility. (3) Analysis of the relations between mechanocardiographic measurements and results of various tests in all the cases showed that ICT, ICT2 and PEP were most nearly related to GFR, DBP, gamma-globulin and serum sodium and Q-T, Q-II/Q-T and (Q-T) -- (Q-II) were nearly related to Ht and age. The changes in cardiac function may be entirely due to increased blood pressure, decreased renal function, electrolyte disturbance, dysproteinemia and anemia associated with CGN. Abnormality in cardiac function seems to depend on the relative abnormalities of these factors and the extents of their influences.", "contents": "Cardiovascular function in chronic glomerulonephritis: mechanocardiographic study. The relations between mechanocardiographic measurements, types of chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) and clinical data were examined in 70 cases of CGN (20 cases of the latent type, 6 cases of the nephritic type, 14 cases of the nephrotic type, 10 cases of the hypertensive type and 20 cases of the endstage). (1) In the different types of CGN, mechanocardiographic abnormalities increased in the order: latent type less than nephritic type less than nephrotic type less than hypertensive type less than endstage. (2) In the endstage, prolongations of ICT, ICT2 and PEP (p less than 0.01), shortening of LVET (p less than 0.05) and decrease of LVET/PEP (p less than 0.01) were observed. These abnormalities may be related to decreased myocardial contractility. (3) Analysis of the relations between mechanocardiographic measurements and results of various tests in all the cases showed that ICT, ICT2 and PEP were most nearly related to GFR, DBP, gamma-globulin and serum sodium and Q-T, Q-II/Q-T and (Q-T) -- (Q-II) were nearly related to Ht and age. The changes in cardiac function may be entirely due to increased blood pressure, decreased renal function, electrolyte disturbance, dysproteinemia and anemia associated with CGN. Abnormality in cardiac function seems to depend on the relative abnormalities of these factors and the extents of their influences.", "PMID": 449019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8878", "title": "Comparison of hemodynamic effects of exercise and isoproterenol infusion in normal young and old men.", "content": "Hemodynamic comparison of ergometer exercise with isoproterenol infusion was carried out in normal young and old men, and age associated difference in responses to exercise and isoproterenol was evaluated. Ergometer exercises of 50, 100 and 150 W in young men, averaging 23.0 years, increased heart rate in linear fashion from 73.8 to 149.2, while stroke index was raised at 50 W and remained at the same level thereafter. The isoproterenol infusion of 0.02 and 0.04 microgram/kg/min increased heart rate, stroke index and cardiac index by similar amount to 50 and 100 W or ergometer exercise respectively. Ergometer exercise elevated systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure linearly, while isoproterenol infusion lowered diastolic and mean blood pressure. In old men, averaging 73.0 years, the tolerable limit of ergometer exercise was 40 W. The increases in heart rate, cardiac index and blood pressure at the comparable work level were by similar amount to the young subjects, indicating the identical hemodynamic responses in young and old men at the same work load. Cardiac index to isoproterenol infusion of 0.02 microgram/kg/min showed less increase than ergometer exercise of 40 W in the aged. Furthermore, the increase in cardiac index to isoproterenol was less in old than young men, showing a decreased response to beta adrenergic stimulation in the aged.", "contents": "Comparison of hemodynamic effects of exercise and isoproterenol infusion in normal young and old men. Hemodynamic comparison of ergometer exercise with isoproterenol infusion was carried out in normal young and old men, and age associated difference in responses to exercise and isoproterenol was evaluated. Ergometer exercises of 50, 100 and 150 W in young men, averaging 23.0 years, increased heart rate in linear fashion from 73.8 to 149.2, while stroke index was raised at 50 W and remained at the same level thereafter. The isoproterenol infusion of 0.02 and 0.04 microgram/kg/min increased heart rate, stroke index and cardiac index by similar amount to 50 and 100 W or ergometer exercise respectively. Ergometer exercise elevated systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure linearly, while isoproterenol infusion lowered diastolic and mean blood pressure. In old men, averaging 73.0 years, the tolerable limit of ergometer exercise was 40 W. The increases in heart rate, cardiac index and blood pressure at the comparable work level were by similar amount to the young subjects, indicating the identical hemodynamic responses in young and old men at the same work load. Cardiac index to isoproterenol infusion of 0.02 microgram/kg/min showed less increase than ergometer exercise of 40 W in the aged. Furthermore, the increase in cardiac index to isoproterenol was less in old than young men, showing a decreased response to beta adrenergic stimulation in the aged.", "PMID": 449021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8879", "title": "Factors influencing the normal heart weight--a study of 140 hearts.", "content": "Weight of the heart and its various components (muscular and non muscular portions) was measured in 138 specimens. Average heart weight for Indians was comparatively less then that of western population. Difference between the average heart weights for males and females was found to be statistically significant. The heart weight was not influenced by age and body length but by the body built. A statistically significant difference was noticed in emaciated persons. Ventricular weight constituted 50 to 80 percent of the total heart weight. A close correlation between the heart weight and ventricular weight was seen. Ventricular wall thickness did not correlate well with the heart weight.", "contents": "Factors influencing the normal heart weight--a study of 140 hearts. Weight of the heart and its various components (muscular and non muscular portions) was measured in 138 specimens. Average heart weight for Indians was comparatively less then that of western population. Difference between the average heart weights for males and females was found to be statistically significant. The heart weight was not influenced by age and body length but by the body built. A statistically significant difference was noticed in emaciated persons. Ventricular weight constituted 50 to 80 percent of the total heart weight. A close correlation between the heart weight and ventricular weight was seen. Ventricular wall thickness did not correlate well with the heart weight.", "PMID": 449022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8880", "title": "Work intensities of different modes of exercise testings in clinical use.", "content": "Several different exercise testings with treadmill, bicycle ergometer and two-step were carried out by healthy Japanese men to study oxygen consumption per minute and circulatory responses. Stress imposed on the heart by dynamic leg exercise varied depending on the mode of exercise even if energy expenditure expressed in VO2 was identical. This should be fully taken into consideration in comparison of results of different modes of exercise testing. For estimation of VO2 during treadmill slope walk, an equation was derived by multiple regression analysis with use of belt speed and slope as independent variables.", "contents": "Work intensities of different modes of exercise testings in clinical use. Several different exercise testings with treadmill, bicycle ergometer and two-step were carried out by healthy Japanese men to study oxygen consumption per minute and circulatory responses. Stress imposed on the heart by dynamic leg exercise varied depending on the mode of exercise even if energy expenditure expressed in VO2 was identical. This should be fully taken into consideration in comparison of results of different modes of exercise testing. For estimation of VO2 during treadmill slope walk, an equation was derived by multiple regression analysis with use of belt speed and slope as independent variables.", "PMID": 449023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8881", "title": "Exercise stress testing and systolic time intervals.", "content": "Changes in ET/PEP in normal subjects are characterized by initial increase associated with the increase in the heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac contractility and are subsequently followed by plateuing or slightly decrease after exceeding the 70% heart rate level of the age predicted maximal heart rate. The decrease in ET/PEP is thought to be mainly due to decrease in stroke volume. After exceeding the predicted maximal heart rate ET/PEP reveals remarkable decrease that may reflect decreased cardiac function (CF). Some patients with ischemic heart diseases revealed decrease of ET/PEP at the heart rate less than the 60% level of the age predicted maximal heart rate. This may indicate decreased cardiac contractility associated with decreased stroke volume (Fig. 10). Since transient left ventricular failure is thought to take place in anginal attack, decreased ET/PEP at the heart rate below the 60% of age predicted maximal heart rate may indicate decreased cardiac function, although invasive evaluation of the cardiac function was not performed in the present study.", "contents": "Exercise stress testing and systolic time intervals. Changes in ET/PEP in normal subjects are characterized by initial increase associated with the increase in the heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac contractility and are subsequently followed by plateuing or slightly decrease after exceeding the 70% heart rate level of the age predicted maximal heart rate. The decrease in ET/PEP is thought to be mainly due to decrease in stroke volume. After exceeding the predicted maximal heart rate ET/PEP reveals remarkable decrease that may reflect decreased cardiac function (CF). Some patients with ischemic heart diseases revealed decrease of ET/PEP at the heart rate less than the 60% level of the age predicted maximal heart rate. This may indicate decreased cardiac contractility associated with decreased stroke volume (Fig. 10). Since transient left ventricular failure is thought to take place in anginal attack, decreased ET/PEP at the heart rate below the 60% of age predicted maximal heart rate may indicate decreased cardiac function, although invasive evaluation of the cardiac function was not performed in the present study.", "PMID": 449026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8882", "title": "Systolic time intervals in progressive muscular dystrophy.", "content": "Indirect systolic time intervals corrected for heart rate were measured at rest, during, and immediately after the isometric handgrip exercise in 70 patients with progressive muscular dystrophy, and these were compared with the values of normal subjects. Those with dystrophy included 47 patients with Duchenne type, 19 with limb girdle type and 4 with facioscapulohumeral type, and each type was subdivided into 2 groups by the severity of the skeletal muscle involvement: 1) mild group, included patients who were still able to walk, 2) severe group, included those who were restricted to wheel chair or confined to bed. Over a half of the patients of the severe Duchenne type group had a longer pre-ejection period (PEP), shorter left ventricular ejection time (LVET), and larger PEP/LVET ratio at rest than the normal group. Increased PEP/LVET ratio during and after isometric handgrip exercise was observed in the severe group of Duchenne type. The patients with limb girdle type, and facioscapulohumeral type showed no significant difference in values of the systolic time intervals at rest and during handgrip exercise compared with the normal subjects. The measurements of resting and exercise systolic time intervals may be useful for clinical recognition of latent left ventricular functional impairement in subjects with progressive muscular dystrophy.", "contents": "Systolic time intervals in progressive muscular dystrophy. Indirect systolic time intervals corrected for heart rate were measured at rest, during, and immediately after the isometric handgrip exercise in 70 patients with progressive muscular dystrophy, and these were compared with the values of normal subjects. Those with dystrophy included 47 patients with Duchenne type, 19 with limb girdle type and 4 with facioscapulohumeral type, and each type was subdivided into 2 groups by the severity of the skeletal muscle involvement: 1) mild group, included patients who were still able to walk, 2) severe group, included those who were restricted to wheel chair or confined to bed. Over a half of the patients of the severe Duchenne type group had a longer pre-ejection period (PEP), shorter left ventricular ejection time (LVET), and larger PEP/LVET ratio at rest than the normal group. Increased PEP/LVET ratio during and after isometric handgrip exercise was observed in the severe group of Duchenne type. The patients with limb girdle type, and facioscapulohumeral type showed no significant difference in values of the systolic time intervals at rest and during handgrip exercise compared with the normal subjects. The measurements of resting and exercise systolic time intervals may be useful for clinical recognition of latent left ventricular functional impairement in subjects with progressive muscular dystrophy.", "PMID": 449040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8883", "title": "The echocardiogram after pericardiectomy.", "content": "Many factors may affect the interventricular septal motion. This study measures the effect of pericardiectomy on septal motion in 9 patients who were evaluated 1 week to 58 months after pericardiectomy. Echocardiography was performed with the patient in recumbent position with the special care to record motion of the muscular septum and not that of the aorta. No patient had left bundle branch block, angina, myocardial infarction, pericardial effusion or right ventricular volume overload. Septal motion was paradoxical in 7, normal in 1 and could not be evaluated 1 patient. The mean value of the right ventricular internal dimension was normal. Two of 9 patients had technically satisfactory echocardiograms preoperatively. Septal motion was normal in both, and both developed paradoxical septal motion postoperatively. We conclude that paradoxical septal motion pericardiectomy, but in contrast with other causes of this finding right ventricular internal dimension remains normal.", "contents": "The echocardiogram after pericardiectomy. Many factors may affect the interventricular septal motion. This study measures the effect of pericardiectomy on septal motion in 9 patients who were evaluated 1 week to 58 months after pericardiectomy. Echocardiography was performed with the patient in recumbent position with the special care to record motion of the muscular septum and not that of the aorta. No patient had left bundle branch block, angina, myocardial infarction, pericardial effusion or right ventricular volume overload. Septal motion was paradoxical in 7, normal in 1 and could not be evaluated 1 patient. The mean value of the right ventricular internal dimension was normal. Two of 9 patients had technically satisfactory echocardiograms preoperatively. Septal motion was normal in both, and both developed paradoxical septal motion postoperatively. We conclude that paradoxical septal motion pericardiectomy, but in contrast with other causes of this finding right ventricular internal dimension remains normal.", "PMID": 449039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8884", "title": "Surface potential distribution on the human thoracic surface in left bundle branch block.", "content": "The sequences of myocardial excitation in the cases of human LBBB have been studied by the surface mapping technique. Analysis of the surface map patterns of 12 subjects has enabled 4 different types to be described. It is suggested that Type I represents a complete LBBB in the presence of an intact right bundle branch, while Types II and III show different degrees of conduction defect in the right bundle branch, too. The left ventricular activation of these 3 types has a similar pathway in phases II and III which is determined by orientation of the main subepicardial muscle layer coursing through the apex and terminating in the anterobasal region. The terminal anterobasal activation in the cases of LBBB has not only theoretical, but clinical significance, since in the presence of anteroseptal myocardial infarction the signs of necrosis must be hidden not in the early, but in the terminal parts of the QRS complex of conventional ECG. The lack of terminal anterior positivity of surface maps in the case of LBBB may be indicative of chronic anterior myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Surface potential distribution on the human thoracic surface in left bundle branch block. The sequences of myocardial excitation in the cases of human LBBB have been studied by the surface mapping technique. Analysis of the surface map patterns of 12 subjects has enabled 4 different types to be described. It is suggested that Type I represents a complete LBBB in the presence of an intact right bundle branch, while Types II and III show different degrees of conduction defect in the right bundle branch, too. The left ventricular activation of these 3 types has a similar pathway in phases II and III which is determined by orientation of the main subepicardial muscle layer coursing through the apex and terminating in the anterobasal region. The terminal anterobasal activation in the cases of LBBB has not only theoretical, but clinical significance, since in the presence of anteroseptal myocardial infarction the signs of necrosis must be hidden not in the early, but in the terminal parts of the QRS complex of conventional ECG. The lack of terminal anterior positivity of surface maps in the case of LBBB may be indicative of chronic anterior myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 449043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8885", "title": "Inhibition of constrictor responses of dog coronary artery by atropine. A possible effectiveness of atropine on variant form of angina pectoris.", "content": "A possible effectiveness of atropine on variant form of angina pectoris was investigated using the left circumflex coronary arterial strips of dogs. Acetylcholine 10(-5)--10(-3) Gm/ml dose-dependently constricted the isolated arterial strips during potassium-contracture in 6 cases, and repetitive applications of acetylcholine could produce the similar contractions to the control. In 18 strips atropine 10(-6) Gm/ml significantly depressed the contractions of coronary arteries induced by acetylcholine 10(-5)--10(-3) Gm/ml. In 5 arterial strips atropine 10(-6) Gm/ml significantly inhibited norepinephrine-induced responses of these arteries, and by 10(-5) Gm/ml further suppression of the responses was obtained. The results suggest that atropine may suppress the contractile responses of the coronary artery induce by acetylcholine and nonrepinephrine through a muscarinic-receptor blocking action and simultaneously partly through an adrenergic alpha-receptor blocking action.", "contents": "Inhibition of constrictor responses of dog coronary artery by atropine. A possible effectiveness of atropine on variant form of angina pectoris. A possible effectiveness of atropine on variant form of angina pectoris was investigated using the left circumflex coronary arterial strips of dogs. Acetylcholine 10(-5)--10(-3) Gm/ml dose-dependently constricted the isolated arterial strips during potassium-contracture in 6 cases, and repetitive applications of acetylcholine could produce the similar contractions to the control. In 18 strips atropine 10(-6) Gm/ml significantly depressed the contractions of coronary arteries induced by acetylcholine 10(-5)--10(-3) Gm/ml. In 5 arterial strips atropine 10(-6) Gm/ml significantly inhibited norepinephrine-induced responses of these arteries, and by 10(-5) Gm/ml further suppression of the responses was obtained. The results suggest that atropine may suppress the contractile responses of the coronary artery induce by acetylcholine and nonrepinephrine through a muscarinic-receptor blocking action and simultaneously partly through an adrenergic alpha-receptor blocking action.", "PMID": 449044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8886", "title": "Noninvasive diagnosis of pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle.", "content": "The echocardiographic, scintigraphic, angiocardiographic and autopsy correlations in a patient with left ventricular pseudoaneurysm are presented. Interruption of the echo of the left ventricular wall and radioisotope image of pseudoaneurysm and its communication channel are demonstrated for the first time. The striking similarity of the radioisotope image to the angiographic image is noted. This study suggests that echocardiography has capability to visualize left ventricular wall defects, such as the perforation seen in this case and radioisotope ventriculography is equivalent to the invasive contrast technique. Both of the methods seem to be safe and specific for the diagnosis of left ventricular pseudoaneurysm.", "contents": "Noninvasive diagnosis of pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle. The echocardiographic, scintigraphic, angiocardiographic and autopsy correlations in a patient with left ventricular pseudoaneurysm are presented. Interruption of the echo of the left ventricular wall and radioisotope image of pseudoaneurysm and its communication channel are demonstrated for the first time. The striking similarity of the radioisotope image to the angiographic image is noted. This study suggests that echocardiography has capability to visualize left ventricular wall defects, such as the perforation seen in this case and radioisotope ventriculography is equivalent to the invasive contrast technique. Both of the methods seem to be safe and specific for the diagnosis of left ventricular pseudoaneurysm.", "PMID": 449046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8887", "title": "Cross-sectional and M-mode echocardiographic study on ventricular septal defect.", "content": "One hundred and eight patients with ventricular septal defect (VSD) including 20 operated patients were studied with real time cross-sectional echocardiography combined with M-mode echocardiography. The subjects were divided into 3 groups according to the cross-sectional echocardiographic findings. Group 1 included 34 patients in whom the defect area of interventricular septum (IVS) was demonstrated and they were diagnosed as VSD solely with this method. The majority of the patients in this group showed marked pulmonary hypertension and severe cardiac symptoms. Group 2 consisted of 13 patients who showed abruptly posterior movement of IVS toward the left ventricular cavity at early diastole and were suspected of VSD. Group 3 consisted of 41 patients with VSD showing normal cross-sectional echocardiograms without echo discontinuity of IVS. This group had a small defect of IVS with near normal pulmonary artery pressure. The analysis of cross-sectional echocardiogram combined with M-mode echocardiogram and the data of other cardiac examinations revealed that group 1 showed a larger left-to-right shunt at the ventricular level, severer pulmonary hypertension and more marked heart enlargement than groups 2 and 3. The patients with visualized defect of IVS had severe cardiac signs and symptoms and were indicated for the cardiac surgery. In the postoperative patients, the patch echo was clearly recognized as a linear strong echo. Real time cross-sectional echocardiography is available to visualize directly the defect of IVS in the majority of the patients with VSD and to estimate the condition of patients with this lesion.", "contents": "Cross-sectional and M-mode echocardiographic study on ventricular septal defect. One hundred and eight patients with ventricular septal defect (VSD) including 20 operated patients were studied with real time cross-sectional echocardiography combined with M-mode echocardiography. The subjects were divided into 3 groups according to the cross-sectional echocardiographic findings. Group 1 included 34 patients in whom the defect area of interventricular septum (IVS) was demonstrated and they were diagnosed as VSD solely with this method. The majority of the patients in this group showed marked pulmonary hypertension and severe cardiac symptoms. Group 2 consisted of 13 patients who showed abruptly posterior movement of IVS toward the left ventricular cavity at early diastole and were suspected of VSD. Group 3 consisted of 41 patients with VSD showing normal cross-sectional echocardiograms without echo discontinuity of IVS. This group had a small defect of IVS with near normal pulmonary artery pressure. The analysis of cross-sectional echocardiogram combined with M-mode echocardiogram and the data of other cardiac examinations revealed that group 1 showed a larger left-to-right shunt at the ventricular level, severer pulmonary hypertension and more marked heart enlargement than groups 2 and 3. The patients with visualized defect of IVS had severe cardiac signs and symptoms and were indicated for the cardiac surgery. In the postoperative patients, the patch echo was clearly recognized as a linear strong echo. Real time cross-sectional echocardiography is available to visualize directly the defect of IVS in the majority of the patients with VSD and to estimate the condition of patients with this lesion.", "PMID": 449047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8888", "title": "Change in plasma renin substrate level after the intravenous furosemide administration.", "content": "Plasma renin substrate (PRS) was determined immediately before and 30 min after the intravenous administration of 40 mg of furosemide in 26 hypertensive subjects. PRS level after the administration of furosemide was found elevated by 30.5 +/- 4.7% which was statistically significant.", "contents": "Change in plasma renin substrate level after the intravenous furosemide administration. Plasma renin substrate (PRS) was determined immediately before and 30 min after the intravenous administration of 40 mg of furosemide in 26 hypertensive subjects. PRS level after the administration of furosemide was found elevated by 30.5 +/- 4.7% which was statistically significant.", "PMID": 449049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8889", "title": "Electrophysiologic study and prognosis of chronic bifascicular block.", "content": "Thirty patients (22 males and 8 females, aged 64 to 89 years) with chronic bifascicular block were studied electrophysiologically and prognosis was assessed. Three had RBBB with LPH, 17 had RBBB with LAH, and 10 had LBBB. AH interval was prolonged in 12 (43%) of 28 patients and HV interval was prolonged in 11 (37%) of 30 patients. Of 16 patients with first or second degree AV block, 11 (69%) had prolonged AH interval and 8 (50%) had prolonged HV interval. Effective refractory period of the right atrium was prolonged in 8 (50%) of 16 patients and that of atrioventricular node was prolonged in 9 (64%) of 14 patients. Second degree AV block was observed at lower rates of atrial pacing (130 beats/min or less) in 14 (74%) of 19 patients. Sinus node dysfunction was present in 16 (62%) of 26 patients. During the follow-up period (37.1 +/- 6.1 months), advanced or complete AV block developed in 2 of 27 patients (2.4% per year) and a patient died of acute myocardial infarction (1.1% per year). The present study showed that prolongation of AH interval was observed more frequently than that of HV interval, and the presence of widespread lesions in the conduction system was suggested in chronic bifascicular block, and in spite of these facts prognosis was not so unfavorable as reported previously.", "contents": "Electrophysiologic study and prognosis of chronic bifascicular block. Thirty patients (22 males and 8 females, aged 64 to 89 years) with chronic bifascicular block were studied electrophysiologically and prognosis was assessed. Three had RBBB with LPH, 17 had RBBB with LAH, and 10 had LBBB. AH interval was prolonged in 12 (43%) of 28 patients and HV interval was prolonged in 11 (37%) of 30 patients. Of 16 patients with first or second degree AV block, 11 (69%) had prolonged AH interval and 8 (50%) had prolonged HV interval. Effective refractory period of the right atrium was prolonged in 8 (50%) of 16 patients and that of atrioventricular node was prolonged in 9 (64%) of 14 patients. Second degree AV block was observed at lower rates of atrial pacing (130 beats/min or less) in 14 (74%) of 19 patients. Sinus node dysfunction was present in 16 (62%) of 26 patients. During the follow-up period (37.1 +/- 6.1 months), advanced or complete AV block developed in 2 of 27 patients (2.4% per year) and a patient died of acute myocardial infarction (1.1% per year). The present study showed that prolongation of AH interval was observed more frequently than that of HV interval, and the presence of widespread lesions in the conduction system was suggested in chronic bifascicular block, and in spite of these facts prognosis was not so unfavorable as reported previously.", "PMID": 449048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8890", "title": "A clinicopathological study on 25 cases of complete left bundle branch block.", "content": "A total of 25 cases (12 men, 13 women) of complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) were found among 1,400 consecutive autopsy in the aged. Their ages ranged from 70 to 86 years (average 78.9). ECG was analyzed as for the occurrence of LBBB and myocardial infarction (MI). Pathological examinations included observations of the conduction system by serial sections. They were divided into group A with MI and group B without MI. Duration of LBBB was 1 to 3 days in 4 cases, more than 1 month in 7, and more than 1 year in 14. From the temporal sequence of LBBB and MI in group A, cases were classified into (1) MI preceding LBBB in 5, (2) both coexistent in 5, and (3) LBBB preceding MI in 1. There were 8 cases of normal electrical axis, 17 left axis deviation, 7 first degree A-V block, and 2 atrial fibrillation. Various heart diseases were underlying in 21 cases, including hypertension, MI, mitral and aortic regurgitation, and primary myocardial disease, and there were 4 cases with no cardiac diseases. Cause of death was cardiac in 12; MI, congestive heart failure, and sudden death. Heart weight was 410 Gm on the average (240 to 550 Gm). MI was found in 11, with stenotic index of 12/15, while it was 9/15 in group B. Lesions of the conduction system were slight to moderate (1.5 to 2.4) except left bundle branch, which showed marked changes in posterior (4.9) and anterior (4.8) fascicles. Site of interruption of the left bundle branch was the junction between the branching portion of the A-V bundle and the left bundle branch (Junctional type) in 17, and peripheral portion of the left bundle branch about 10 mm or more below the junction in 8 (Peripheral type). In conclusion, 2/3 of cases of LBBB belonged to the junctional type and most of them were not related to MI, but to the lesions caused by mechanical injuries at the septal summit. One third of the cases were as peripheral type, which was mainly related to the various types of lesions including septal ischemia (necrosis and fibrosis).", "contents": "A clinicopathological study on 25 cases of complete left bundle branch block. A total of 25 cases (12 men, 13 women) of complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) were found among 1,400 consecutive autopsy in the aged. Their ages ranged from 70 to 86 years (average 78.9). ECG was analyzed as for the occurrence of LBBB and myocardial infarction (MI). Pathological examinations included observations of the conduction system by serial sections. They were divided into group A with MI and group B without MI. Duration of LBBB was 1 to 3 days in 4 cases, more than 1 month in 7, and more than 1 year in 14. From the temporal sequence of LBBB and MI in group A, cases were classified into (1) MI preceding LBBB in 5, (2) both coexistent in 5, and (3) LBBB preceding MI in 1. There were 8 cases of normal electrical axis, 17 left axis deviation, 7 first degree A-V block, and 2 atrial fibrillation. Various heart diseases were underlying in 21 cases, including hypertension, MI, mitral and aortic regurgitation, and primary myocardial disease, and there were 4 cases with no cardiac diseases. Cause of death was cardiac in 12; MI, congestive heart failure, and sudden death. Heart weight was 410 Gm on the average (240 to 550 Gm). MI was found in 11, with stenotic index of 12/15, while it was 9/15 in group B. Lesions of the conduction system were slight to moderate (1.5 to 2.4) except left bundle branch, which showed marked changes in posterior (4.9) and anterior (4.8) fascicles. Site of interruption of the left bundle branch was the junction between the branching portion of the A-V bundle and the left bundle branch (Junctional type) in 17, and peripheral portion of the left bundle branch about 10 mm or more below the junction in 8 (Peripheral type). In conclusion, 2/3 of cases of LBBB belonged to the junctional type and most of them were not related to MI, but to the lesions caused by mechanical injuries at the septal summit. One third of the cases were as peripheral type, which was mainly related to the various types of lesions including septal ischemia (necrosis and fibrosis).", "PMID": 449051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8891", "title": "The effects of angiotensin II and indomethacin on the pulmonary arterial prostaglandin E levels and pulmonary circulation in dogs.", "content": "We studied whether pulmonary arterial levels of plasma prostaglandin E rose following pressor effects of angiotensin II in the intact dogs. Furthermore, the modulation by indomethacin of the effect of angiotensin II, PGF2 alpha, and PGE1 on pulmonary circulation was evaluated. Pulmonary arterial plasma PGE levels rose significantly from 0.52 +/- 0.10 (SE) ng/ml to 0.85 +/- 0.07 by the infusion of angiotensin II. This increase was not observed when indomethacin was given. The rise in pulmonary arterial pressure and total pulmonary resistance by angiotensin II was augmented significantly with pretreatment of indomethacin. These results showed that there was an augmentation of the pulmonary vasoconstrictor action of angiotensin II as indomethacin blocked an increase of pulmonary arterial PGE level. Thus, it was suggested that prostaglandins (especially PGE) modulated the pulmonary vasoconstrictor effects of angiotensin II.", "contents": "The effects of angiotensin II and indomethacin on the pulmonary arterial prostaglandin E levels and pulmonary circulation in dogs. We studied whether pulmonary arterial levels of plasma prostaglandin E rose following pressor effects of angiotensin II in the intact dogs. Furthermore, the modulation by indomethacin of the effect of angiotensin II, PGF2 alpha, and PGE1 on pulmonary circulation was evaluated. Pulmonary arterial plasma PGE levels rose significantly from 0.52 +/- 0.10 (SE) ng/ml to 0.85 +/- 0.07 by the infusion of angiotensin II. This increase was not observed when indomethacin was given. The rise in pulmonary arterial pressure and total pulmonary resistance by angiotensin II was augmented significantly with pretreatment of indomethacin. These results showed that there was an augmentation of the pulmonary vasoconstrictor action of angiotensin II as indomethacin blocked an increase of pulmonary arterial PGE level. Thus, it was suggested that prostaglandins (especially PGE) modulated the pulmonary vasoconstrictor effects of angiotensin II.", "PMID": 449052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8892", "title": "Absence of acute cardiac effect of triiodothyronine in isolated, blood-perfused canine atrium.", "content": "Effects of triiodothyronine (T3) on SA node pacemaker activity, atrial contractility and on chronotropic and inotropic responses to norepinephrine were investigated, using 9 isolated, blood-perfused dog atrium preparations. T3 (0.001 pg--0.1 microgram) did not cause a significant direct action injected into the cannulated sinus node artery. When T3 (10 pg/min, 40 pg/min, 0.1 microgram/min, or 0.4 microgram/min) was continuously infused into the sinus node artery, both positive chronotropic and inotropic actions of norepinephrine (0.03 microgram--0.3 microgram) were not influenced. From these results, it is concluded that T3 has neither acutely direct chronotropic nor inotropic effects, and also T3 does not have an acute effect on responses to norepinephrine in the isolated, blood-perfused canine atrium.", "contents": "Absence of acute cardiac effect of triiodothyronine in isolated, blood-perfused canine atrium. Effects of triiodothyronine (T3) on SA node pacemaker activity, atrial contractility and on chronotropic and inotropic responses to norepinephrine were investigated, using 9 isolated, blood-perfused dog atrium preparations. T3 (0.001 pg--0.1 microgram) did not cause a significant direct action injected into the cannulated sinus node artery. When T3 (10 pg/min, 40 pg/min, 0.1 microgram/min, or 0.4 microgram/min) was continuously infused into the sinus node artery, both positive chronotropic and inotropic actions of norepinephrine (0.03 microgram--0.3 microgram) were not influenced. From these results, it is concluded that T3 has neither acutely direct chronotropic nor inotropic effects, and also T3 does not have an acute effect on responses to norepinephrine in the isolated, blood-perfused canine atrium.", "PMID": 449053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8893", "title": "The effect of phenoxybenzamine on the pulmonary vascular bed in surgically corrected ventricular septal defect associated with pulmonary hypertension.", "content": "From 1971 to 1977, a total of 43 cases with ventricular septal defect associated with pulmonary hypertension (VSD + PH), ranging from 3 months to 6 years of age, underwent VSD closure using cardiopulmonary bypass with a prophylactic dose of phenoxybenzamine (POB) 1 mg/Kg. Twenty of these cases are included in the present study of the effect of POB on pulmonary hypertension. The ratios of pulmonary to systemic arterial pressures (Pp/Ps) and vascular resistances (Rp/Rs) were measured before, immediately after and 1 month after VSD closure. In all cases, the Pp/Ps before VSD closure was larger than 0.75. Both Pp/Ps and Rp/Rs markedly decreased immediately after VSD closure but rose again 1 month thereafter. These results suggest the possibility of pulmonary vasodilating effect of POB, which could be potentially useful in relieving the right ventricular load in the early postoperative period. The over all mortality was 3 out of 43 cases including 2 late deaths.", "contents": "The effect of phenoxybenzamine on the pulmonary vascular bed in surgically corrected ventricular septal defect associated with pulmonary hypertension. From 1971 to 1977, a total of 43 cases with ventricular septal defect associated with pulmonary hypertension (VSD + PH), ranging from 3 months to 6 years of age, underwent VSD closure using cardiopulmonary bypass with a prophylactic dose of phenoxybenzamine (POB) 1 mg/Kg. Twenty of these cases are included in the present study of the effect of POB on pulmonary hypertension. The ratios of pulmonary to systemic arterial pressures (Pp/Ps) and vascular resistances (Rp/Rs) were measured before, immediately after and 1 month after VSD closure. In all cases, the Pp/Ps before VSD closure was larger than 0.75. Both Pp/Ps and Rp/Rs markedly decreased immediately after VSD closure but rose again 1 month thereafter. These results suggest the possibility of pulmonary vasodilating effect of POB, which could be potentially useful in relieving the right ventricular load in the early postoperative period. The over all mortality was 3 out of 43 cases including 2 late deaths.", "PMID": 449050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8894", "title": "Two cases of rubella infection with cardiac involvement.", "content": "During the prevalence of rubella infection in Japan in 1975, we experienced 2 cases complicated with cardiac involvement: a 40-year-old housewife and a 52-year-old man. These 2 cases showed enlarged cardiac silhouettes and bilateral pleural effusion on the chest X-ray films. Pericardial effusion was demonstrated by echocardiogram and cardiac RI pool scintigram. A myocardial biopsy specimen showed slight cell infiltration in Case 1. The anti-rubella antibody titer rose from 128x to 4096x in Case 1 and from 265x to 1024x in Case 2. From these findings Case 1 was diagnosed as rubella pancarditis and Case 2 as pleuropericarditis. Only 4 cases with the cardiac involvement of rubella was reported in the past.", "contents": "Two cases of rubella infection with cardiac involvement. During the prevalence of rubella infection in Japan in 1975, we experienced 2 cases complicated with cardiac involvement: a 40-year-old housewife and a 52-year-old man. These 2 cases showed enlarged cardiac silhouettes and bilateral pleural effusion on the chest X-ray films. Pericardial effusion was demonstrated by echocardiogram and cardiac RI pool scintigram. A myocardial biopsy specimen showed slight cell infiltration in Case 1. The anti-rubella antibody titer rose from 128x to 4096x in Case 1 and from 265x to 1024x in Case 2. From these findings Case 1 was diagnosed as rubella pancarditis and Case 2 as pleuropericarditis. Only 4 cases with the cardiac involvement of rubella was reported in the past.", "PMID": 449054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8895", "title": "An analysis of water movement between myocardial tissue and capillary blood during reactive hyperemia.", "content": "The colloid osmotic pressure (COP) of blood from the great cardiac vein was continuously measured by means of a membrane colloid osmometer during the reactive hyperemia following temporary occlusion of the anterior descending branch of the left coronary artery in anesthetized open-chest dogs. The COP increased sharply after releasing the occlusion, then decreased below the preocclusion level before gradually returning to it. These findings indicate that a measurable amount of water moved from the capillary blood into the myocardial tissues and then flowed back slowly into the capillary blood. To analyse the factors affecting this water movement, a method is proposed in which the Starling mechanism is combined with the interstitial volume elasticity and a steady-state solution of a Navier-Stokes equation. The pressure observed with a catheter wedged into a branch of the great cardiac vein was used as a measure of capillary perfusion pressure. During the coronary arterial occlusion, the filtration constant increased while the volume elasticity of the myocardial interstitial spaces decreased rapidly. The filtration constant and volume elasticity of the interstitial space under normal conditions were approximately estimated to be 2.4 X 10(-11) cm/(sec.dyn.cm-2) and 1.1 X 10(7) dyn.cm-2, respectively.", "contents": "An analysis of water movement between myocardial tissue and capillary blood during reactive hyperemia. The colloid osmotic pressure (COP) of blood from the great cardiac vein was continuously measured by means of a membrane colloid osmometer during the reactive hyperemia following temporary occlusion of the anterior descending branch of the left coronary artery in anesthetized open-chest dogs. The COP increased sharply after releasing the occlusion, then decreased below the preocclusion level before gradually returning to it. These findings indicate that a measurable amount of water moved from the capillary blood into the myocardial tissues and then flowed back slowly into the capillary blood. To analyse the factors affecting this water movement, a method is proposed in which the Starling mechanism is combined with the interstitial volume elasticity and a steady-state solution of a Navier-Stokes equation. The pressure observed with a catheter wedged into a branch of the great cardiac vein was used as a measure of capillary perfusion pressure. During the coronary arterial occlusion, the filtration constant increased while the volume elasticity of the myocardial interstitial spaces decreased rapidly. The filtration constant and volume elasticity of the interstitial space under normal conditions were approximately estimated to be 2.4 X 10(-11) cm/(sec.dyn.cm-2) and 1.1 X 10(7) dyn.cm-2, respectively.", "PMID": 449120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8896", "title": "Postsynaptic potentials in the hypoglossal motoneurons set up by hypoglossal nerve stimulation.", "content": "In nembutalized cats intracellular potentials were recorded from hypoglossal motoneurons innervating either protruder or retractor muscles of the tonge (protruder and retractor motoneurons: P-Mns and R-Mns). Responses to stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve were explored and found to consist of an antidromic spike followed by an afterhyperpolarization (AHP) and a postsynaptic potential (PSP). When hypoglossal nerve stimulation was made with an intensity three times as large as the threshold for the hypoglossal motor fibers, the PSPs became evident under blockage of soma-dendritic invasion of the antidromic spike. In most of P-Mns or R-Mns, the PSPs were IPSPs, independent of the side of peripheral stimulation. The latencies were about 12 msec. Even when the cell membrane was hyperpolarized by injecting a hyperpolarizing current of up to 16 nA, the reversal point of the IPSP was difficult to find. In a small fraction of hypoglossal motoneurons the PSPs to hypoglossal nerve stimulation were EPSPs with latencies of 10 to 12 msec.", "contents": "Postsynaptic potentials in the hypoglossal motoneurons set up by hypoglossal nerve stimulation. In nembutalized cats intracellular potentials were recorded from hypoglossal motoneurons innervating either protruder or retractor muscles of the tonge (protruder and retractor motoneurons: P-Mns and R-Mns). Responses to stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve were explored and found to consist of an antidromic spike followed by an afterhyperpolarization (AHP) and a postsynaptic potential (PSP). When hypoglossal nerve stimulation was made with an intensity three times as large as the threshold for the hypoglossal motor fibers, the PSPs became evident under blockage of soma-dendritic invasion of the antidromic spike. In most of P-Mns or R-Mns, the PSPs were IPSPs, independent of the side of peripheral stimulation. The latencies were about 12 msec. Even when the cell membrane was hyperpolarized by injecting a hyperpolarizing current of up to 16 nA, the reversal point of the IPSP was difficult to find. In a small fraction of hypoglossal motoneurons the PSPs to hypoglossal nerve stimulation were EPSPs with latencies of 10 to 12 msec.", "PMID": 449122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8897", "title": "Effect of SCN on potassium contracture in twitch muscle fibers of the frog.", "content": "The effect of SCN on potassium contracture, especially the time course and the mechanical inactivation of the contracture, was investigated using frog twitch muscle fibers. SCN increased the magnitude and the rate of rise of the potassium contracture tension and prolonged its time course. These effects of SCN depended on the concentration of K+ in the external medium and on the duration of pretreatment of the fibers with SCN-Ringer solution. The potentiating effect of SCN on the potassium contracture tension was pronounced at lower and moderate concentrations of K+ and this effect attained a maximum within 1 min after the pretreatment. In the contracture induced by exposure of the fibers to K-SCN-solution without the pretreatment, the time course of the contracture, especially the retardation of the spontaneous relaxation, was marked at higher concentrations of K+. This retarding effect of SCN attained a maximum at more than 10 min after the pretreatment with SCN-Ringer solution. SCN shifted the mechanical inactivation curve of potassium contracture toward lower concentrations of K+, as in the case of the activation curve, and markedly increased the rate of the inactivation induced by conditioning with 15 mM K+. In addition, SCN delayed the recovery of potassium contracture from the mechanical inactivation induced by preceding K-SCN-contracture. On the basis of these results, the sites and the mechanism of action of SCN on potassium contracture are discussed.", "contents": "Effect of SCN on potassium contracture in twitch muscle fibers of the frog. The effect of SCN on potassium contracture, especially the time course and the mechanical inactivation of the contracture, was investigated using frog twitch muscle fibers. SCN increased the magnitude and the rate of rise of the potassium contracture tension and prolonged its time course. These effects of SCN depended on the concentration of K+ in the external medium and on the duration of pretreatment of the fibers with SCN-Ringer solution. The potentiating effect of SCN on the potassium contracture tension was pronounced at lower and moderate concentrations of K+ and this effect attained a maximum within 1 min after the pretreatment. In the contracture induced by exposure of the fibers to K-SCN-solution without the pretreatment, the time course of the contracture, especially the retardation of the spontaneous relaxation, was marked at higher concentrations of K+. This retarding effect of SCN attained a maximum at more than 10 min after the pretreatment with SCN-Ringer solution. SCN shifted the mechanical inactivation curve of potassium contracture toward lower concentrations of K+, as in the case of the activation curve, and markedly increased the rate of the inactivation induced by conditioning with 15 mM K+. In addition, SCN delayed the recovery of potassium contracture from the mechanical inactivation induced by preceding K-SCN-contracture. On the basis of these results, the sites and the mechanism of action of SCN on potassium contracture are discussed.", "PMID": 449123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8898", "title": "Intracellular distribution of calcium in cardiac muscles studied by electron microscope autoradiography.", "content": "The intracellular distribution of calcium was investigated by 45Ca electron microscope autoradiography in the frog or rat ventricular muscle and guinea pig papillary muscle. The muscle was incubated for 30 min in 45Ca-Ringer's solution or high Ca solution in which 1/10--1/20 of Ca was replaced with 45Ca. The distribution of developed silver grains sensitized by the 45Ca (45Ca grains) was found to be 38% in the mitochondria, 43% in the myofibrils and 19% in the other regions (8% in the cytoplasma and 11% in the various membranous structures) in the frog muscle cell incubated in the 45Ca-Ringer's solution. After electrical stimulation (10 Hz, 5 min), the distribution was 22% in the mitochondria, 53% in the myofibrils and 25% in other regions. Similar results were obtained after high K stimulation in the frog ventricular muscles and after electrical stimulation in high Ca solution in guinea pig papillary muscles. Following the addition of 1 X 10(-6) g/ml adrenaline into the incubating solution, the grain distribution in guinea pig papillary muscles did not show significant change but the distribution in myofibril decreased after electrical stimulation, while it increased in the mitochondria. Longitudinal localization of 45Ca grains along the myofibril was also examined and it was a general tendency throughout all animals examined that the grain density at the A band and near the Z band decreased after electrical stimulation, while it increased at the I band and, especially, at the A-I junction.", "contents": "Intracellular distribution of calcium in cardiac muscles studied by electron microscope autoradiography. The intracellular distribution of calcium was investigated by 45Ca electron microscope autoradiography in the frog or rat ventricular muscle and guinea pig papillary muscle. The muscle was incubated for 30 min in 45Ca-Ringer's solution or high Ca solution in which 1/10--1/20 of Ca was replaced with 45Ca. The distribution of developed silver grains sensitized by the 45Ca (45Ca grains) was found to be 38% in the mitochondria, 43% in the myofibrils and 19% in the other regions (8% in the cytoplasma and 11% in the various membranous structures) in the frog muscle cell incubated in the 45Ca-Ringer's solution. After electrical stimulation (10 Hz, 5 min), the distribution was 22% in the mitochondria, 53% in the myofibrils and 25% in other regions. Similar results were obtained after high K stimulation in the frog ventricular muscles and after electrical stimulation in high Ca solution in guinea pig papillary muscles. Following the addition of 1 X 10(-6) g/ml adrenaline into the incubating solution, the grain distribution in guinea pig papillary muscles did not show significant change but the distribution in myofibril decreased after electrical stimulation, while it increased in the mitochondria. Longitudinal localization of 45Ca grains along the myofibril was also examined and it was a general tendency throughout all animals examined that the grain density at the A band and near the Z band decreased after electrical stimulation, while it increased at the I band and, especially, at the A-I junction.", "PMID": 449121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8899", "title": "The dynamics of contraction in the guinea pig taenia coli.", "content": "Tension-length, load-velocity and tension-extension relations were studied in the taenia coli muscle of the guinea pig weighing 0.25--0.5 kg at 36--37 degrees C. The muscle was relaxed by 10(-6) g/ml adrenaline and stimulated by a strong AC field. The tension-length diagram was far wider than that of the skeletal muscle and sufficient tension was generated at longer lengths than 1.8 Lm, where Lm is the optimal length at which the maximum tension, Fm, is generated. The developed force per unit cross-sectional area was almost unchanged between 1.2--2.0 Lm. Average of the maximum forces was 2.2 kg/cm2. Load-velocity curves obtained at various isometric forces at Lm coincided with each other, if the velocity was plotted against the relative force. All curves can be expressed by a single force-load-velocity equation, (P+A)(v+b)=b(F+A), A=(F/Fm)a, where P is the load, F the isometric force, v the velocity, a and b are constants. The maximum velocity per unit muscle length was constant, irrespective of the muscle length. The compliance of the series elastic component, that is, the slope of the tension-extension curve, did not depend on the isometric force but decreased with decreasing muscle length. The internal lengthening of the series elastic component by the full isometric tension was about 3% of the muscle length at Lm.", "contents": "The dynamics of contraction in the guinea pig taenia coli. Tension-length, load-velocity and tension-extension relations were studied in the taenia coli muscle of the guinea pig weighing 0.25--0.5 kg at 36--37 degrees C. The muscle was relaxed by 10(-6) g/ml adrenaline and stimulated by a strong AC field. The tension-length diagram was far wider than that of the skeletal muscle and sufficient tension was generated at longer lengths than 1.8 Lm, where Lm is the optimal length at which the maximum tension, Fm, is generated. The developed force per unit cross-sectional area was almost unchanged between 1.2--2.0 Lm. Average of the maximum forces was 2.2 kg/cm2. Load-velocity curves obtained at various isometric forces at Lm coincided with each other, if the velocity was plotted against the relative force. All curves can be expressed by a single force-load-velocity equation, (P+A)(v+b)=b(F+A), A=(F/Fm)a, where P is the load, F the isometric force, v the velocity, a and b are constants. The maximum velocity per unit muscle length was constant, irrespective of the muscle length. The compliance of the series elastic component, that is, the slope of the tension-extension curve, did not depend on the isometric force but decreased with decreasing muscle length. The internal lengthening of the series elastic component by the full isometric tension was about 3% of the muscle length at Lm.", "PMID": 449125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8900", "title": "Action of ammonium ions on the resting membrane of crayfish stretch receptor neuron.", "content": "In the crayfish stretch receptor neuron, extracellularly applied NH4+ acted on the nonsynaptic membrane and produced not only a depolarizing shift of EIPSP but also depolarization and conductance increase. Under certain conditions these actions may become the main cause of the disinhibitory effect of NH4+ on the inhibitory synapse.", "contents": "Action of ammonium ions on the resting membrane of crayfish stretch receptor neuron. In the crayfish stretch receptor neuron, extracellularly applied NH4+ acted on the nonsynaptic membrane and produced not only a depolarizing shift of EIPSP but also depolarization and conductance increase. Under certain conditions these actions may become the main cause of the disinhibitory effect of NH4+ on the inhibitory synapse.", "PMID": 449126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8901", "title": "Z shaped primary colorectal anastomosis using the GIA autosuture for Hirschsprung's disease.", "content": "The Duhamel operation for Hirschsprung's disease has won wide acceptance throughout the world. However, this procedure is not without difficulties, and the usual technique of employing various crushing clamps for division of the colo-rectal septum is inelegant, inconvenient and uncertain. This paper presents an operative technique with particular reference to the use of the GIA autosuture surgical stapling instrument in the Z shaped primary colorectal side-to-side anastomosis for Hirschsprung's disease advocated by Ikeda. This is a single and primary procedure, and makes the postoperative care easier and more comfortable for the patients. Experiences with twenty-five patients are reported.", "contents": "Z shaped primary colorectal anastomosis using the GIA autosuture for Hirschsprung's disease. The Duhamel operation for Hirschsprung's disease has won wide acceptance throughout the world. However, this procedure is not without difficulties, and the usual technique of employing various crushing clamps for division of the colo-rectal septum is inelegant, inconvenient and uncertain. This paper presents an operative technique with particular reference to the use of the GIA autosuture surgical stapling instrument in the Z shaped primary colorectal side-to-side anastomosis for Hirschsprung's disease advocated by Ikeda. This is a single and primary procedure, and makes the postoperative care easier and more comfortable for the patients. Experiences with twenty-five patients are reported.", "PMID": 449128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8902", "title": "Immunoreactive carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA] levels in feces from colorectal cancer patients.", "content": "Immunoreactive CEA (IR-CEA) in feces or sera from 20 volunteers and 20 patients with colorectal cancer were measured before and at various intervals after surgery by a radioimmunoassay utilizing a \"one step sandwich method.\" Elevated fecal IR-CEA level was observed in 17 of 20 patients with colorectal cancer; elevated serum CEA levels were observed in only 7 of all patients. There could not be found any correlation between fecal IR-CEA levels and Dukes' classification; there was but a little correlation between serum and fecal IR-CEA levels. In 8 of 14 patients treated by surgery, fecal IR-CEA levels obviously dropped, but in 2 patients with hepatic metastasis they were found rising in spite of colon tumor removal. It was speculated from these data that high values of fecal CEA depend on mass production of CEA by cancer cells. From these observations, it appears that fecal IR-CEA level presents a more ideal diagnostic competency in colorectal cancer than serum CEA level.", "contents": "Immunoreactive carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA] levels in feces from colorectal cancer patients. Immunoreactive CEA (IR-CEA) in feces or sera from 20 volunteers and 20 patients with colorectal cancer were measured before and at various intervals after surgery by a radioimmunoassay utilizing a \"one step sandwich method.\" Elevated fecal IR-CEA level was observed in 17 of 20 patients with colorectal cancer; elevated serum CEA levels were observed in only 7 of all patients. There could not be found any correlation between fecal IR-CEA levels and Dukes' classification; there was but a little correlation between serum and fecal IR-CEA levels. In 8 of 14 patients treated by surgery, fecal IR-CEA levels obviously dropped, but in 2 patients with hepatic metastasis they were found rising in spite of colon tumor removal. It was speculated from these data that high values of fecal CEA depend on mass production of CEA by cancer cells. From these observations, it appears that fecal IR-CEA level presents a more ideal diagnostic competency in colorectal cancer than serum CEA level.", "PMID": 449127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8903", "title": "An experimental study of the preparation of a substitute stomach following total gastrectomy in the rat.", "content": "In 38 rats, a substitute stomach was prepared through transplantation of the ileocaecal intestinal portion following total gastrectomy. 47% of rats tolerated the operation. The survival rate of the tolerated rats for 360 days after the surgery was 16%. Their body weight corresponded to 77% of that in the untreated control rats on the 360th day after the operation. Compared to other conventional methods of total gastrectomy and reconstruction, this method is quite outstanding. From this experimental fact, the preparation of a substitute stomach through transplantation of the ileocaecal intestinal segment seems possible to supplement a part of the defects in the agastric syndrome accompanying total gastrectomy for a prolonged period.", "contents": "An experimental study of the preparation of a substitute stomach following total gastrectomy in the rat. In 38 rats, a substitute stomach was prepared through transplantation of the ileocaecal intestinal portion following total gastrectomy. 47% of rats tolerated the operation. The survival rate of the tolerated rats for 360 days after the surgery was 16%. Their body weight corresponded to 77% of that in the untreated control rats on the 360th day after the operation. Compared to other conventional methods of total gastrectomy and reconstruction, this method is quite outstanding. From this experimental fact, the preparation of a substitute stomach through transplantation of the ileocaecal intestinal segment seems possible to supplement a part of the defects in the agastric syndrome accompanying total gastrectomy for a prolonged period.", "PMID": 449130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8904", "title": "A resected case of pulmonary multiple fibro-leiomyomatous hamartoma--light and electron microscopic study.", "content": "A light and electron microscopic study of a case of multiple pulmonary fibro-leiomyomatous hamartoma is described. Like the previous reports, the patient was an old woman with no complaint. The histologic features were characterized by mingling with rich fibroblasts and mesenchymal cells. The definite diagnosis was made by the features which were detected ultrastructurally. In this case, we considered that the fibrous component was more predominant than the leiomyomatous component.", "contents": "A resected case of pulmonary multiple fibro-leiomyomatous hamartoma--light and electron microscopic study. A light and electron microscopic study of a case of multiple pulmonary fibro-leiomyomatous hamartoma is described. Like the previous reports, the patient was an old woman with no complaint. The histologic features were characterized by mingling with rich fibroblasts and mesenchymal cells. The definite diagnosis was made by the features which were detected ultrastructurally. In this case, we considered that the fibrous component was more predominant than the leiomyomatous component.", "PMID": 449129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8905", "title": "Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts for small artery replacement.", "content": "Twenty vascular grafts of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene with a 1.5 mm. internal diameter and a 4.0 cm. length, were placed in the femoral arteries of dogs. The animals, divided into two groups, with and without pluronic F 68, were sacrificed two weeks after surgery. The patency rate was 33.3% (2/6) and 21.5% (3/14), which was not statistically significant. One factor contributing to the occlusion of the grafts were excessive proliferation of granulation tissue due to early formation of the thrombus. Histological findings showed that the pseudointima was almost complete, although it was only about 0.114 mm. thick at the anastomotic line.", "contents": "Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts for small artery replacement. Twenty vascular grafts of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene with a 1.5 mm. internal diameter and a 4.0 cm. length, were placed in the femoral arteries of dogs. The animals, divided into two groups, with and without pluronic F 68, were sacrificed two weeks after surgery. The patency rate was 33.3% (2/6) and 21.5% (3/14), which was not statistically significant. One factor contributing to the occlusion of the grafts were excessive proliferation of granulation tissue due to early formation of the thrombus. Histological findings showed that the pseudointima was almost complete, although it was only about 0.114 mm. thick at the anastomotic line.", "PMID": 449131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8906", "title": "Follow-up of 514 consecutive patients with cardiopulmonary arrest outside the hospital.", "content": "During the years 1974 of 1976, 514 patients with prehospital cardiopulmonary arrest were brought to the Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) Emergency Department. Of these, 344 patients (67%) were either dead on arrival or died in the emergency department despite efforts at resuscitation. The remaining 170 patients were admitted to the coronary care unit. Eighty-seven patients (51%) died in the coronary care unit, primarily from uncontrolled rhythm disturbances and/or cardiogenic shock. The remaining 83 patients (16% of the total group, 49% of those admitted to the hospital) were discharged alive from HCMC. In this group, 49 patients of the 83 long-term survivors were ambulatory with full mental function when discharged. The remaining 34 patients were trnasferred to chronic care facilities for medical treatment of on-going problems. Of the 49 ambulatory patients, satisfactory data for follow-up was obtained on 47. Their mortality rate was 15% in the first year and 50% in the second, primarily from sudden death syndrome.", "contents": "Follow-up of 514 consecutive patients with cardiopulmonary arrest outside the hospital. During the years 1974 of 1976, 514 patients with prehospital cardiopulmonary arrest were brought to the Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) Emergency Department. Of these, 344 patients (67%) were either dead on arrival or died in the emergency department despite efforts at resuscitation. The remaining 170 patients were admitted to the coronary care unit. Eighty-seven patients (51%) died in the coronary care unit, primarily from uncontrolled rhythm disturbances and/or cardiogenic shock. The remaining 83 patients (16% of the total group, 49% of those admitted to the hospital) were discharged alive from HCMC. In this group, 49 patients of the 83 long-term survivors were ambulatory with full mental function when discharged. The remaining 34 patients were trnasferred to chronic care facilities for medical treatment of on-going problems. Of the 49 ambulatory patients, satisfactory data for follow-up was obtained on 47. Their mortality rate was 15% in the first year and 50% in the second, primarily from sudden death syndrome.", "PMID": 449143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8907", "title": "Prophylactic lidocaine in suspected acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "The incidence of serious ventricular arrhythmias following acute myocardial infarction is highest during the first few hours after injury, and thereafter declines. Several investigations into the prophylactic use of lidocaine to prevent the development of arrhythmias have shown that lidocaine, given in therapeutic doses, is effective in preventing ventricular fibrillation and in reducing early mortality. Lidocaine was found to be effective when given either by the intravenous or by the intramuscular routes. The recommended dosage is 100 mg given as an intravenous bolus followed by 2 to 4 mg/min as an infusion, which should be given by infusion pump. Another recommendation is to use two 100 mg boluses 20 minutes apart, along with the same infusion. We recommend that lidocaine be started as soon as possible in all patients suspected of having suffered acute myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Prophylactic lidocaine in suspected acute myocardial infarction. The incidence of serious ventricular arrhythmias following acute myocardial infarction is highest during the first few hours after injury, and thereafter declines. Several investigations into the prophylactic use of lidocaine to prevent the development of arrhythmias have shown that lidocaine, given in therapeutic doses, is effective in preventing ventricular fibrillation and in reducing early mortality. Lidocaine was found to be effective when given either by the intravenous or by the intramuscular routes. The recommended dosage is 100 mg given as an intravenous bolus followed by 2 to 4 mg/min as an infusion, which should be given by infusion pump. Another recommendation is to use two 100 mg boluses 20 minutes apart, along with the same infusion. We recommend that lidocaine be started as soon as possible in all patients suspected of having suffered acute myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 449144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8908", "title": "Traumatic injuries in the parotid region.", "content": "The facial nerve, parotid duct, and external ear canal are at risk from penetrating injuries in the parotid region. The areas of the face supplied by the major branches of the facial nerve should be checked in the emergency department so that repair of a cut nerve can be performed while the distal end is able to be stimulated electronically. The parotid duct can be probed and lacerations repaired. The external ear canal should be repaired and stented to prevent stenosis.", "contents": "Traumatic injuries in the parotid region. The facial nerve, parotid duct, and external ear canal are at risk from penetrating injuries in the parotid region. The areas of the face supplied by the major branches of the facial nerve should be checked in the emergency department so that repair of a cut nerve can be performed while the distal end is able to be stimulated electronically. The parotid duct can be probed and lacerations repaired. The external ear canal should be repaired and stented to prevent stenosis.", "PMID": 449145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8909", "title": "Intravenous glucagon in the management of esophageal food obstruction.", "content": "The use of intravenous glucagon in patients with obstructing esophageal food impaction of at least 24-hours duration has recently been described. Two cases of acute esophageal obstruction were relieved within ten minutes by intravenous infusion of 1 mg of glucagon. Esophagram performed both before and after glucagon administration confirmed the original obstruction and the passage of the food bolus. Therapy for bolus obstruction of the esophagus has classically included proteolytic enzyme digestion, as well as esophagoscopy with manual extraction. Each entails risk of esophageal perforation and mediastinitis. Also, the dose of proteolytic enzymes, such as papain, may take several hours to administer while endoscopic examination is generally not feasible as an outpatient emergency procedure. Intravenous glucagon can dissolve food other than meat and has the further advantage of safety in the patient in which anticholinergics, another occasionally employed therapy, are contraindicated. A protocol for management of these patients is included.", "contents": "Intravenous glucagon in the management of esophageal food obstruction. The use of intravenous glucagon in patients with obstructing esophageal food impaction of at least 24-hours duration has recently been described. Two cases of acute esophageal obstruction were relieved within ten minutes by intravenous infusion of 1 mg of glucagon. Esophagram performed both before and after glucagon administration confirmed the original obstruction and the passage of the food bolus. Therapy for bolus obstruction of the esophagus has classically included proteolytic enzyme digestion, as well as esophagoscopy with manual extraction. Each entails risk of esophageal perforation and mediastinitis. Also, the dose of proteolytic enzymes, such as papain, may take several hours to administer while endoscopic examination is generally not feasible as an outpatient emergency procedure. Intravenous glucagon can dissolve food other than meat and has the further advantage of safety in the patient in which anticholinergics, another occasionally employed therapy, are contraindicated. A protocol for management of these patients is included.", "PMID": 449146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8910", "title": "Posttraumatic aneurysms of the hand.", "content": "Aneurysms should be suspected in patients with a mass in the hand following either open or closed trauma. Posttraumatic aneurysms are classified as true or false. False aneurysms usually result from penetrating trauma and can occur in any disrupted vessel. In contrast, true aneurysms usually occur in either the thenar or hypothenar eminence a few weeks following closed hand injuries. Pulsations may be evident. Symptoms are coolness or paresthesia of the digits and dull pain aggravated by exercise. A positive Allen's test is a helpful confirmatory sign in diagnosis. Treatment is surgical with resection of the aneurysm and primary anastomosis or vein graft when possible.", "contents": "Posttraumatic aneurysms of the hand. Aneurysms should be suspected in patients with a mass in the hand following either open or closed trauma. Posttraumatic aneurysms are classified as true or false. False aneurysms usually result from penetrating trauma and can occur in any disrupted vessel. In contrast, true aneurysms usually occur in either the thenar or hypothenar eminence a few weeks following closed hand injuries. Pulsations may be evident. Symptoms are coolness or paresthesia of the digits and dull pain aggravated by exercise. A positive Allen's test is a helpful confirmatory sign in diagnosis. Treatment is surgical with resection of the aneurysm and primary anastomosis or vein graft when possible.", "PMID": 449147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8911", "title": "Spontaneous hemothorax.", "content": "A 31-year-old man presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain resulting from a spontaneous hemothorax. A tube thoracostomy was performed on the left side and 700 cc of blood removed. Another 1800 cc of blood oozed from the chest tube. Open thoracotomy was performed in the operating room. There were approximately 1 to 2 liters of blood and clot in the chest cavity. Multiple bleeding points in the apex were ligated and wedge resection was done. Spontaneous hemothorax may represent a form of spontaneous hemopneumothorax or it may be a complication of a variety of situations. Open thoracotomy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis and treatment.", "contents": "Spontaneous hemothorax. A 31-year-old man presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain resulting from a spontaneous hemothorax. A tube thoracostomy was performed on the left side and 700 cc of blood removed. Another 1800 cc of blood oozed from the chest tube. Open thoracotomy was performed in the operating room. There were approximately 1 to 2 liters of blood and clot in the chest cavity. Multiple bleeding points in the apex were ligated and wedge resection was done. Spontaneous hemothorax may represent a form of spontaneous hemopneumothorax or it may be a complication of a variety of situations. Open thoracotomy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis and treatment.", "PMID": 449148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8912", "title": "Iron toxicity screening.", "content": "Fischer's method for rapid detection of acute iron toxicity is modified to suit pediatric cases. TPTZ (2,4,6-tripyridyl-s-triazine) is the chromogen of choice since in a small volume of serum slight to moderate hemolysis can cause a false positive result bathophenanthroline. Ordinary labware is amenable to this simplified procedure.", "contents": "Iron toxicity screening. Fischer's method for rapid detection of acute iron toxicity is modified to suit pediatric cases. TPTZ (2,4,6-tripyridyl-s-triazine) is the chromogen of choice since in a small volume of serum slight to moderate hemolysis can cause a false positive result bathophenanthroline. Ordinary labware is amenable to this simplified procedure.", "PMID": 449149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8913", "title": "Shock and resuscitation. III. Accurate refractometric COP determinations in hypovolemia treated with HALFD.", "content": "In 38 critically burned patients with symptomatic hypovolemia being treated by intravenous fluids, the accuracy of colloid oncotic pressure (COP) calculated from the refractometrically-determined serum total protein (TPRI) was compared with COP values determined by a commercially-available clinical oncometer. Sera were obtained randomly from seven patients receiving Ringer's lactate solution, five receiving a hypertonic solution (240 mOsm Na+) and 26 receiving a hypertonic solution containing albumin (12.5 gm/liter, HALFD method). There was poor correlation between COP measure and that calculated from RI in patients receiving colloid-free fluid, but high correlation (r = 0.925) in patients receiving HALFD. There was high correlation (r = 0.951) between measured COP and values calculated from TPRI in patients receiving hypertonic fluid, colloid containing hypertonic fluid, or no fluid:COP = 4.08 (TPRI)--4.61.", "contents": "Shock and resuscitation. III. Accurate refractometric COP determinations in hypovolemia treated with HALFD. In 38 critically burned patients with symptomatic hypovolemia being treated by intravenous fluids, the accuracy of colloid oncotic pressure (COP) calculated from the refractometrically-determined serum total protein (TPRI) was compared with COP values determined by a commercially-available clinical oncometer. Sera were obtained randomly from seven patients receiving Ringer's lactate solution, five receiving a hypertonic solution (240 mOsm Na+) and 26 receiving a hypertonic solution containing albumin (12.5 gm/liter, HALFD method). There was poor correlation between COP measure and that calculated from RI in patients receiving colloid-free fluid, but high correlation (r = 0.925) in patients receiving HALFD. There was high correlation (r = 0.951) between measured COP and values calculated from TPRI in patients receiving hypertonic fluid, colloid containing hypertonic fluid, or no fluid:COP = 4.08 (TPRI)--4.61.", "PMID": 449157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8914", "title": "Handling of nonsevere head injuries.", "content": "In emergency patients with nonsevere head injuries, there are conflicting opinions over which patients should be admitted for observation, but little data directly useful to the emergency physician in making this decision. The literature was reviewed and records of 182 patients presenting for head injury were examined. Although many factors must be considered, by far the most helpful element in predicting outcome is the mental status of the patient as observed in the emergency department. Features suggesting depressed skull fracture or possible foreign bodies require radiographic examination. Most patients can be observed in the emergency department mainly for changes in level of consciousness and discharged with instructions for further observation at home.", "contents": "Handling of nonsevere head injuries. In emergency patients with nonsevere head injuries, there are conflicting opinions over which patients should be admitted for observation, but little data directly useful to the emergency physician in making this decision. The literature was reviewed and records of 182 patients presenting for head injury were examined. Although many factors must be considered, by far the most helpful element in predicting outcome is the mental status of the patient as observed in the emergency department. Features suggesting depressed skull fracture or possible foreign bodies require radiographic examination. Most patients can be observed in the emergency department mainly for changes in level of consciousness and discharged with instructions for further observation at home.", "PMID": 449158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8915", "title": "Activated charcoal updated.", "content": "Activated charcoal, commonly recommended for treatment of chemical ingestions, is the residue from destructive distillation of various organic materials treated to increase its adsorptive power. Since there are no known side effects, the dose should be sufficiently large for optimum adsorption. In the literature, the recommended doses range from 30 gm to 120 gm, or in a charcoal-drug ratio of 10:1. For maximum effect, activated charcoal should be administered within 30 minutes of ingestion. It can be given while its effectiveness for a particular toxic substance is verified.", "contents": "Activated charcoal updated. Activated charcoal, commonly recommended for treatment of chemical ingestions, is the residue from destructive distillation of various organic materials treated to increase its adsorptive power. Since there are no known side effects, the dose should be sufficiently large for optimum adsorption. In the literature, the recommended doses range from 30 gm to 120 gm, or in a charcoal-drug ratio of 10:1. For maximum effect, activated charcoal should be administered within 30 minutes of ingestion. It can be given while its effectiveness for a particular toxic substance is verified.", "PMID": 449159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8916", "title": "Pressure gun injection injuries of the hand.", "content": "In the growing number of pressure gun injuries with injection of materials into the hand, the degree of toxicity of the material, the amount injected and early adequate treatment are the three most important factors in determining the final result. Paint is the most toxic agent and causes an extreme amount of tissue inflammation. Early debridement of the injected material gives the best functional result. In spite of early surgical debridement, some of these injuries, most commonly with highly toxic agents, progress to eventual amputation.", "contents": "Pressure gun injection injuries of the hand. In the growing number of pressure gun injuries with injection of materials into the hand, the degree of toxicity of the material, the amount injected and early adequate treatment are the three most important factors in determining the final result. Paint is the most toxic agent and causes an extreme amount of tissue inflammation. Early debridement of the injected material gives the best functional result. In spite of early surgical debridement, some of these injuries, most commonly with highly toxic agents, progress to eventual amputation.", "PMID": 449160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8917", "title": "Acute nontraumatic cardiac tamponade.", "content": "A 33-year-old man presented with acute nontraumatic cardiac tamponade as a result of pneumococcal pericarditis in association with pneumococcal pneumonia. Hypotension, tachycardia and pulsus paradoxicus, 50 mm Hg, were present. Echocardiographic findings were compatible with cardiac tamponade. Pericardiocentesis was performed. Acute nontraumatic pericardial tamponade in the emergency department presents special problems of diagnosis and management. Diagnosis is based on correlation of data from the history, physical examination, electrocardiogram, chest x-ray films, and a high index of suspicion. Echocardiography to confirm the diagnosis of tamponade and aid in correct placement of the needle in pericardiocentesis is especially helpful.", "contents": "Acute nontraumatic cardiac tamponade. A 33-year-old man presented with acute nontraumatic cardiac tamponade as a result of pneumococcal pericarditis in association with pneumococcal pneumonia. Hypotension, tachycardia and pulsus paradoxicus, 50 mm Hg, were present. Echocardiographic findings were compatible with cardiac tamponade. Pericardiocentesis was performed. Acute nontraumatic pericardial tamponade in the emergency department presents special problems of diagnosis and management. Diagnosis is based on correlation of data from the history, physical examination, electrocardiogram, chest x-ray films, and a high index of suspicion. Echocardiography to confirm the diagnosis of tamponade and aid in correct placement of the needle in pericardiocentesis is especially helpful.", "PMID": 449161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8918", "title": "The amobarbital interview.", "content": "In two apparently disoriented patients, the emergency physician's use of amobarbital quickly eliminated diagnoses of an organic etiology. Although thousands of amobarbital interviews have had no complications, the use of amobarbital should follow a thorough evaluation. The amobarbital interview is a safe and simple technique to discriminate functional from organic illness, thus avoiding unnecessary medical and surgical treatment, neglected illness, and inappropriate disposition.", "contents": "The amobarbital interview. In two apparently disoriented patients, the emergency physician's use of amobarbital quickly eliminated diagnoses of an organic etiology. Although thousands of amobarbital interviews have had no complications, the use of amobarbital should follow a thorough evaluation. The amobarbital interview is a safe and simple technique to discriminate functional from organic illness, thus avoiding unnecessary medical and surgical treatment, neglected illness, and inappropriate disposition.", "PMID": 449162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8919", "title": "Acute hypokalemia as a possible cause of death in a patient with advanced muscular dystrophy.", "content": "A patient with advanced muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type developed severe hypokalemia thought to be secondary to moderate gastro-intestinal losses in association with reduced intracellular potassium stores. With correction of the hypokalemia, the cardiac rhythm became more normal. In patients with advanced dystrophy, hypokalemia may be functionally significant.", "contents": "Acute hypokalemia as a possible cause of death in a patient with advanced muscular dystrophy. A patient with advanced muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type developed severe hypokalemia thought to be secondary to moderate gastro-intestinal losses in association with reduced intracellular potassium stores. With correction of the hypokalemia, the cardiac rhythm became more normal. In patients with advanced dystrophy, hypokalemia may be functionally significant.", "PMID": 449173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8920", "title": "Fetal Monitoring during cardiopulmonary bypass for removal of a left atrial myxoma during pregnancy.", "content": "A 26-year-old woman was discovered to have a left atrial myxoma during the second trimester of pregnancy. Because of concern about potential complications from the cardiac tumor, it was elected to operate on this patient using cardiopulmonary bypass and careful fetal heart rate monitoring. Excision of the myxoma was carried out uneventfully and a healthy male infant was born at full term 16 weeks later. Problems associated with maternal extracorporeal circulation during pregnancy are discussed. This case illustrates the feasibility and safety of performing open-heart surgery during pregnancy, utilizing a simple external fetal monitoring technique.", "contents": "Fetal Monitoring during cardiopulmonary bypass for removal of a left atrial myxoma during pregnancy. A 26-year-old woman was discovered to have a left atrial myxoma during the second trimester of pregnancy. Because of concern about potential complications from the cardiac tumor, it was elected to operate on this patient using cardiopulmonary bypass and careful fetal heart rate monitoring. Excision of the myxoma was carried out uneventfully and a healthy male infant was born at full term 16 weeks later. Problems associated with maternal extracorporeal circulation during pregnancy are discussed. This case illustrates the feasibility and safety of performing open-heart surgery during pregnancy, utilizing a simple external fetal monitoring technique.", "PMID": 449172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8921", "title": "Complications of percutaneous central venous catheterization: a report of two cases and review of the literature.", "content": "Percutaneous catheterization of the central venous system is a valuable and commonly employed procedure, but it is not without risk. Two cases are reported which illustrate complications of both internal jugular and subclavian vein cannulation: a fatal cerebrovascular accident; and hemo- and pneumothorax. Literature review indicates that pneumothorax and air embolus are major complications of both routes of catheter insertion. Additionally each route has untoward effects related to the proximity of easily compromised structures (pleura, lungs, arteries, nerves). Awareness of potential complications and use of precautionary measures may reduce the risk of these procedures.", "contents": "Complications of percutaneous central venous catheterization: a report of two cases and review of the literature. Percutaneous catheterization of the central venous system is a valuable and commonly employed procedure, but it is not without risk. Two cases are reported which illustrate complications of both internal jugular and subclavian vein cannulation: a fatal cerebrovascular accident; and hemo- and pneumothorax. Literature review indicates that pneumothorax and air embolus are major complications of both routes of catheter insertion. Additionally each route has untoward effects related to the proximity of easily compromised structures (pleura, lungs, arteries, nerves). Awareness of potential complications and use of precautionary measures may reduce the risk of these procedures.", "PMID": 449175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8922", "title": "Intussusception of the excluded segment following jejuno-ileal bypass.", "content": "Intussusception of the defunctionalized intestinal segment following jejuno-ileal bypass for obesity has rarely been reported. Persistent crampy abdominal pain (often accompanied by nausea and vomiting) and normal radiologic evaluation are suggestive of this entity. The routine use of silver clips, although helpful in some instances, cannot exclude this diagnosis. A high index of suspicion and the use of sonography may prove that intussusception of the defunctionalized segment is more common than has been previously reported.", "contents": "Intussusception of the excluded segment following jejuno-ileal bypass. Intussusception of the defunctionalized intestinal segment following jejuno-ileal bypass for obesity has rarely been reported. Persistent crampy abdominal pain (often accompanied by nausea and vomiting) and normal radiologic evaluation are suggestive of this entity. The routine use of silver clips, although helpful in some instances, cannot exclude this diagnosis. A high index of suspicion and the use of sonography may prove that intussusception of the defunctionalized segment is more common than has been previously reported.", "PMID": 449176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8923", "title": "Thrombin and fibrin-induced growth of fibroblasts: role in wound repair and thrombus organization.", "content": "Skin fibroblast cultures were treated with various components of the blood clotting system (thrombin, fibrinogen and fibrin) during the logarithmic growth phase. Fibrin as well as thrombin showed dose-dependent growth promoting activities as revealed by cell counting and 3H-thymidine uptake. No effect was seen with fibrinogen. After entrapping in polymerizing fibrin enriched by complete culture medium the cells elongated, multiplied and formed net-like interconnecting cell strands throughout the clots. Nutritional deprivation appeared as a limiting factor for eventual growth cessation. The results demonstrate active growth of fibroblasts in fibrin clots such as present in healing wounds and thrombi. The production of thrombin by the coagulation cascade does not only result in the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin but has also a long-lasting hormone-like effect on fibroblast proliferation which is of essential importance in wound healing, thrombus organization and progression of chronic atherosclerotic lesions.", "contents": "Thrombin and fibrin-induced growth of fibroblasts: role in wound repair and thrombus organization. Skin fibroblast cultures were treated with various components of the blood clotting system (thrombin, fibrinogen and fibrin) during the logarithmic growth phase. Fibrin as well as thrombin showed dose-dependent growth promoting activities as revealed by cell counting and 3H-thymidine uptake. No effect was seen with fibrinogen. After entrapping in polymerizing fibrin enriched by complete culture medium the cells elongated, multiplied and formed net-like interconnecting cell strands throughout the clots. Nutritional deprivation appeared as a limiting factor for eventual growth cessation. The results demonstrate active growth of fibroblasts in fibrin clots such as present in healing wounds and thrombi. The production of thrombin by the coagulation cascade does not only result in the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin but has also a long-lasting hormone-like effect on fibroblast proliferation which is of essential importance in wound healing, thrombus organization and progression of chronic atherosclerotic lesions.", "PMID": 449250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8924", "title": "[Molecular weight analysis of physiological proteinuria in newborn infants (author's transl)].", "content": "The physiological protien and glycoprotein excretions in the urine samples of a larger group of newborn infants were separated according to the molecular weights by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and compared with the protein excretions of older children. We found higher proportions of albumin, of high molecular weight (MW = molecular weight greater than or equal to 150 000 dt) and of lower molecular weight (MW less than albumin 6800 dt) proteins in the first 24-h urine samples after birth. One week after birth the low molecular weight proteins predominated because there was a substantial decrease in the excretion of albumin and of high molecular weight proteins (MW greater than or equal to 150 000 dt). We compared the patterns of protein excretion of the newborn infants with those of children aged from 2 1/2 to 15 years. These urines samples showed a typical pattern of protein excretion not correlated to the age. These findings express a transitory immaturity of the glomerular filter and of the tubular protein reabsorbing system of the newborn kidney. Apparently, the tubular protein handling normalizes later than the glomerular filtration of proteins.", "contents": "[Molecular weight analysis of physiological proteinuria in newborn infants (author's transl)]. The physiological protien and glycoprotein excretions in the urine samples of a larger group of newborn infants were separated according to the molecular weights by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and compared with the protein excretions of older children. We found higher proportions of albumin, of high molecular weight (MW = molecular weight greater than or equal to 150 000 dt) and of lower molecular weight (MW less than albumin 6800 dt) proteins in the first 24-h urine samples after birth. One week after birth the low molecular weight proteins predominated because there was a substantial decrease in the excretion of albumin and of high molecular weight proteins (MW greater than or equal to 150 000 dt). We compared the patterns of protein excretion of the newborn infants with those of children aged from 2 1/2 to 15 years. These urines samples showed a typical pattern of protein excretion not correlated to the age. These findings express a transitory immaturity of the glomerular filter and of the tubular protein reabsorbing system of the newborn kidney. Apparently, the tubular protein handling normalizes later than the glomerular filtration of proteins.", "PMID": 449252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8925", "title": "[Chronic mercury poisoning following topical application of skin bleachers (author's transl)].", "content": "In two female patients chronic mercurialism following topical application of skin bleachers for the treatment of freckles was diagnosed. Over 20 to 25 years 3 to 10% mercurial ointments were applied twice daily. Recurrent attacks of headache, dyspnoea and abdominal colic-like cramps had lead repeatedly to emergency hospitalisations, multiple medical check-ups and surgical exploratory procedures. The diagnosis of mercurialism was made clinically because of a slate-grayish skin hyperpigmentation in the presence of freckles, and the drug-history. Metallic deposits in facial biopsies were demonstrated by electron microscopy. On admission 15.4 microgram% and 5.0 microgram % total Hg respectively were found in the two patients (normal values up to 2.0 microgram %). Following D-penicillamine treatment the mercury excretion via the urine could be elevated up to 25 microgram %. Neither the slate-gray facial discoloration nor the neurasthenic complaints were affected by this therapeutic trial. In one patient, a maculo-papular drug-induced skin rash to D-penicillamine developed. Persistent unsolved neurological complaints and cramp-like abdominal pains should remind that percutaneous mercury intoxication through intact skin following skin bleachers is still possible today.", "contents": "[Chronic mercury poisoning following topical application of skin bleachers (author's transl)]. In two female patients chronic mercurialism following topical application of skin bleachers for the treatment of freckles was diagnosed. Over 20 to 25 years 3 to 10% mercurial ointments were applied twice daily. Recurrent attacks of headache, dyspnoea and abdominal colic-like cramps had lead repeatedly to emergency hospitalisations, multiple medical check-ups and surgical exploratory procedures. The diagnosis of mercurialism was made clinically because of a slate-grayish skin hyperpigmentation in the presence of freckles, and the drug-history. Metallic deposits in facial biopsies were demonstrated by electron microscopy. On admission 15.4 microgram% and 5.0 microgram % total Hg respectively were found in the two patients (normal values up to 2.0 microgram %). Following D-penicillamine treatment the mercury excretion via the urine could be elevated up to 25 microgram %. Neither the slate-gray facial discoloration nor the neurasthenic complaints were affected by this therapeutic trial. In one patient, a maculo-papular drug-induced skin rash to D-penicillamine developed. Persistent unsolved neurological complaints and cramp-like abdominal pains should remind that percutaneous mercury intoxication through intact skin following skin bleachers is still possible today.", "PMID": 449253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8926", "title": "DNA of free and complexed origin in human plasma: concentration and length distribution.", "content": "The DNA content in plasma of five healthy human individuals has been estimated. Structures ascertained by electron microscopy have been identified as double-stranded DNA. Depending on the isolation procedure applied the DNA molecules found may originate from free and/or complexed forms of DNA. The lengths range from less than 0.2 microns up to about 13 microns. DNA concentration is in the range of 3 to 11 ng/ml.", "contents": "DNA of free and complexed origin in human plasma: concentration and length distribution. The DNA content in plasma of five healthy human individuals has been estimated. Structures ascertained by electron microscopy have been identified as double-stranded DNA. Depending on the isolation procedure applied the DNA molecules found may originate from free and/or complexed forms of DNA. The lengths range from less than 0.2 microns up to about 13 microns. DNA concentration is in the range of 3 to 11 ng/ml.", "PMID": 449255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8927", "title": "Age- and sex-related differences in plasma aldosterone in essential hypertension. Relationship to plasma renin activity.", "content": "In essential hypertension mean basal (supine) and stimulated plasma renin activity (2 h upright posture + 40 mg furosemide intraveneously) decreased progressively with age. No significant differences were observed in renin levels between male and female patients. With increasing age mean basal (supine) plasma aldosterone remained almost unchanged in females, whereas in males a slight increase was found. However, in the comparable age-groups no significant sex-related differences were obtained. In female patients changes in mean stimulated plasma aldosterone with increasing age paralleled those of plasma renin activity, whereas in males this relationship was less obvious: only a slight age-related decline in stimulated aldosterone levels was observed and significantly lower plasma aldosterone concentrations in male than in female hypertensives of the younger age-groups (less than 40 years) were found. The results indicate that in essential hypertension with increasing age dissociation between plasma aldosterone and plasma renin activity occurred. Furthermore, the described alterations in adrenal aldosterone release are more pronounced in male than in female patients.", "contents": "Age- and sex-related differences in plasma aldosterone in essential hypertension. Relationship to plasma renin activity. In essential hypertension mean basal (supine) and stimulated plasma renin activity (2 h upright posture + 40 mg furosemide intraveneously) decreased progressively with age. No significant differences were observed in renin levels between male and female patients. With increasing age mean basal (supine) plasma aldosterone remained almost unchanged in females, whereas in males a slight increase was found. However, in the comparable age-groups no significant sex-related differences were obtained. In female patients changes in mean stimulated plasma aldosterone with increasing age paralleled those of plasma renin activity, whereas in males this relationship was less obvious: only a slight age-related decline in stimulated aldosterone levels was observed and significantly lower plasma aldosterone concentrations in male than in female hypertensives of the younger age-groups (less than 40 years) were found. The results indicate that in essential hypertension with increasing age dissociation between plasma aldosterone and plasma renin activity occurred. Furthermore, the described alterations in adrenal aldosterone release are more pronounced in male than in female patients.", "PMID": 449254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8928", "title": "Evaluation of autonomic neuropathy in diabetes mellitus. Comparison of clinical, functional and biochemical parameters.", "content": "Quantitative assessment of signs or symptoms of neuropathy, and the beat-to-beat variation, valsalva, orthostasis, handgrip and cold pressor tests, and measurements of plasma renin and catecholamine excretion rate were performed in 23 diabetic patients and 10 age-matched normal subjects. Significant inverse correlations were found between the clinical score and the beat-to-beat variation (a test of efferent vagus function) (r=-0.55, -0.72, P less than 0.0005) or the pressor response to handgrip (possible test of efferent sympathetic integrity (r=p less than 0.005) or the values of both tests combined (r=-0.79, P less than 0.0005); but not with the other measured parameters. Beat-to-beat variation was abnormal in all 9 diabetics with increased and in 9 of 14 with normal clinical score, whereas only seven and one patient from these subgroups, respectively, had an abnormal Valsalva ratio. The pressor response to handgrip was only slightly reduced in the diabetic patients, with greater tendency in those with abnormal clinical score. Additional possible indices of adrenergic dysfunction such as the pressor response to cold stimulus, plasma renin levels and noradrenaline or adrenaline excretion rates did not differ significantly between normal subjects and diabetics. These finding demonstrate a greater prevalence of parasympathetic as compared to sympathetic impairment in diabetic autonomic neuropathy; the beat-to-beat variation was the most sensitive among the tests used. An assessment of clinical evidence combined with non-invasive functional procedures such as the beat-to-beat variation and handgrip tests provide a valuable and easy to perform tool in the evaluation of diabetic neuropathy.", "contents": "Evaluation of autonomic neuropathy in diabetes mellitus. Comparison of clinical, functional and biochemical parameters. Quantitative assessment of signs or symptoms of neuropathy, and the beat-to-beat variation, valsalva, orthostasis, handgrip and cold pressor tests, and measurements of plasma renin and catecholamine excretion rate were performed in 23 diabetic patients and 10 age-matched normal subjects. Significant inverse correlations were found between the clinical score and the beat-to-beat variation (a test of efferent vagus function) (r=-0.55, -0.72, P less than 0.0005) or the pressor response to handgrip (possible test of efferent sympathetic integrity (r=p less than 0.005) or the values of both tests combined (r=-0.79, P less than 0.0005); but not with the other measured parameters. Beat-to-beat variation was abnormal in all 9 diabetics with increased and in 9 of 14 with normal clinical score, whereas only seven and one patient from these subgroups, respectively, had an abnormal Valsalva ratio. The pressor response to handgrip was only slightly reduced in the diabetic patients, with greater tendency in those with abnormal clinical score. Additional possible indices of adrenergic dysfunction such as the pressor response to cold stimulus, plasma renin levels and noradrenaline or adrenaline excretion rates did not differ significantly between normal subjects and diabetics. These finding demonstrate a greater prevalence of parasympathetic as compared to sympathetic impairment in diabetic autonomic neuropathy; the beat-to-beat variation was the most sensitive among the tests used. An assessment of clinical evidence combined with non-invasive functional procedures such as the beat-to-beat variation and handgrip tests provide a valuable and easy to perform tool in the evaluation of diabetic neuropathy.", "PMID": 449256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8929", "title": "[Combined action of space flight and radiation factors on the skeletal musculature of rats].", "content": "A prolonged irradiation of rats at a dose of 800 rad on their 10th day of flight aboard the biosatellite Cosmos-690 aggravated the severity of weightlessness- and hypokinesia-induced atrophic and dystrophic processes in the soleus muscle and the atrophic process in the gastrocnemius muscle. These space flight factors did not influence the muscles (biceps brachii, extensor digitorum longus), in which no flight-associated pathologies occurred. Radiation exposure altered the pattern of reparation in the areas of the soleus muscle that developed pathological changes, and delayed resorption which occurred during the pathological process of the connective tissue, which resulted in an inhibition of the reparation process.", "contents": "[Combined action of space flight and radiation factors on the skeletal musculature of rats]. A prolonged irradiation of rats at a dose of 800 rad on their 10th day of flight aboard the biosatellite Cosmos-690 aggravated the severity of weightlessness- and hypokinesia-induced atrophic and dystrophic processes in the soleus muscle and the atrophic process in the gastrocnemius muscle. These space flight factors did not influence the muscles (biceps brachii, extensor digitorum longus), in which no flight-associated pathologies occurred. Radiation exposure altered the pattern of reparation in the areas of the soleus muscle that developed pathological changes, and delayed resorption which occurred during the pathological process of the connective tissue, which resulted in an inhibition of the reparation process.", "PMID": 449262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8930", "title": "[Action on water-salt metabolism as a prophylactic method in orthostatic intolerance in crew members of the 2d expedition of the Saliut-1 station].", "content": "The water-salt supplement developed in ground-based experiments in order to increase human tolerance to LBNP and orthostatic tests was recommended to be given to the crewmembers at the final stage of the second expedition of Salyut-4. On the 53rd flight day, concomitantly with an intake of 4.0 g sodium chloride and 900-1200 ml water, an LBNP test was carried out to assess the effectiveness of this supplement, to select its optimal doses and to clarify individual responses. After the intake both cosmonauts showed a better tolerance of the LBNP test. They also displayed individual variations in their responses, viz. the commander in arterial circulation, and the flightengineer in venous circulation. As suggested by the ground-based experiments and the inflight provocative test, both cosmonauts were requested to take 9.0 g sodium chloride and 1000--1200 ml water on the last flight day. The postflight examinations demonstrated that the countermeasures applied (physical exercises, LBNP) in combination with the direct action on the fluid-electrolyte metabolism gave a pronounced positive effect.", "contents": "[Action on water-salt metabolism as a prophylactic method in orthostatic intolerance in crew members of the 2d expedition of the Saliut-1 station]. The water-salt supplement developed in ground-based experiments in order to increase human tolerance to LBNP and orthostatic tests was recommended to be given to the crewmembers at the final stage of the second expedition of Salyut-4. On the 53rd flight day, concomitantly with an intake of 4.0 g sodium chloride and 900-1200 ml water, an LBNP test was carried out to assess the effectiveness of this supplement, to select its optimal doses and to clarify individual responses. After the intake both cosmonauts showed a better tolerance of the LBNP test. They also displayed individual variations in their responses, viz. the commander in arterial circulation, and the flightengineer in venous circulation. As suggested by the ground-based experiments and the inflight provocative test, both cosmonauts were requested to take 9.0 g sodium chloride and 1000--1200 ml water on the last flight day. The postflight examinations demonstrated that the countermeasures applied (physical exercises, LBNP) in combination with the direct action on the fluid-electrolyte metabolism gave a pronounced positive effect.", "PMID": 449260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8931", "title": "Peripheral neuropathy in the diabetic mutant mouse. An ultrastructural study.", "content": "Structural changes in peripheral nerves were studied sequentially in mutant diabetic mice. Axonal changes were found in both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers, the outstanding early change being the development of honeycombed Schwann cell-axon networks followed by axonal atrophy in both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers. In the late stages of the diabetic syndrome, this axonopathy was accompanied by secondary corrugated myelin breakdown. The changes, indicative of a primary axonal degeneration, are comparable to findings in human diabetic neuropathy for which this seems a suitable experimental model.", "contents": "Peripheral neuropathy in the diabetic mutant mouse. An ultrastructural study. Structural changes in peripheral nerves were studied sequentially in mutant diabetic mice. Axonal changes were found in both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers, the outstanding early change being the development of honeycombed Schwann cell-axon networks followed by axonal atrophy in both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers. In the late stages of the diabetic syndrome, this axonopathy was accompanied by secondary corrugated myelin breakdown. The changes, indicative of a primary axonal degeneration, are comparable to findings in human diabetic neuropathy for which this seems a suitable experimental model.", "PMID": 449272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8932", "title": "The \"wavefront phenomenon\" of myocardial ischemic cell death. II. Transmural progression of necrosis within the framework of ischemic bed size (myocardium at risk) and collateral flow.", "content": "The present study was done to quantitate the evolution of myocardial ischemic cell death within the framework of (1) the anatomical boundaries of the ischemic bed at risk and (2) the magnitude and transmural distribution of collateral blood flow. Myocardial ischemia was produced by proximal circumflex (LCC) occlusions in open chest dogs. Infarcts reperfused at 40 minutes, 3 hours, or 6 hours were compared with permanent infarcts. All dogs were sacrificed at 4 days. Regional myocardial blood flow was measured with 9-micrometer tracer microspheres before, and 20 minutes after, LCC occlusion. The location and size of the ischemic LCC bed at risk was determined by a dye injection technique. Infarct size was quantitated from multiple histologic sections. Necrosis involved 28 per cent, 70 per cent, and 72 per cent of the ischemic bed at risk in infarcts reperfused at 40 minutes, 3 hours, and 6 hours versus 79 per cent following permanent LCC ligation. Viable and potentially salvageable subepicardial muscle persisted for at least 3 hours after the onset of ischemia. Most of the salvageable myocardium was in the subepicardial region. In all groups, the lateral margins of necrosis were sharp in the subendocardial zone and were determined by the anatomical boundaries of the ischemic LCC bed at risk. LCC bed size ranged from 29 to 48 per cent of the left ventricle and thus contributed to variation in infarct size. However, infarct size, as a percentage of bed size, was determined by the transmural extent of necrosis within that bed (r = -0.97). This transmural extent of necrosis was related to subepicardial collateral flow after 3 hours (r = 0.92) and 6 or 96 hours (r = -0.85) but not after 40 minutes (r = -0.26) of ischemia. Thus, irreversible injury of ischemic myocardium developed as a transmural wavefront, occurring first in the subendocardial myocardium but ultimately becoming nearly transmural. Eventual transmural necrosis, and therefore over-all infarct size was determined by, and can be predicted from flow measurements obtained shortly after coronary occlusion.", "contents": "The \"wavefront phenomenon\" of myocardial ischemic cell death. II. Transmural progression of necrosis within the framework of ischemic bed size (myocardium at risk) and collateral flow. The present study was done to quantitate the evolution of myocardial ischemic cell death within the framework of (1) the anatomical boundaries of the ischemic bed at risk and (2) the magnitude and transmural distribution of collateral blood flow. Myocardial ischemia was produced by proximal circumflex (LCC) occlusions in open chest dogs. Infarcts reperfused at 40 minutes, 3 hours, or 6 hours were compared with permanent infarcts. All dogs were sacrificed at 4 days. Regional myocardial blood flow was measured with 9-micrometer tracer microspheres before, and 20 minutes after, LCC occlusion. The location and size of the ischemic LCC bed at risk was determined by a dye injection technique. Infarct size was quantitated from multiple histologic sections. Necrosis involved 28 per cent, 70 per cent, and 72 per cent of the ischemic bed at risk in infarcts reperfused at 40 minutes, 3 hours, and 6 hours versus 79 per cent following permanent LCC ligation. Viable and potentially salvageable subepicardial muscle persisted for at least 3 hours after the onset of ischemia. Most of the salvageable myocardium was in the subepicardial region. In all groups, the lateral margins of necrosis were sharp in the subendocardial zone and were determined by the anatomical boundaries of the ischemic LCC bed at risk. LCC bed size ranged from 29 to 48 per cent of the left ventricle and thus contributed to variation in infarct size. However, infarct size, as a percentage of bed size, was determined by the transmural extent of necrosis within that bed (r = -0.97). This transmural extent of necrosis was related to subepicardial collateral flow after 3 hours (r = 0.92) and 6 or 96 hours (r = -0.85) but not after 40 minutes (r = -0.26) of ischemia. Thus, irreversible injury of ischemic myocardium developed as a transmural wavefront, occurring first in the subendocardial myocardium but ultimately becoming nearly transmural. Eventual transmural necrosis, and therefore over-all infarct size was determined by, and can be predicted from flow measurements obtained shortly after coronary occlusion.", "PMID": 449273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8933", "title": "[Possibilities of preventing the adverse reactions in modeling the acute period of adaptation to weightlessness].", "content": "It has been shown that during head-down tilting at an angle of -30 degrees occlusion of the four limbs by 70 mm Hg relieved unpleasant symptoms. According to rheoencephalography, cerebral blood flow decreased to the level normally seen in the supine position. During a prolonged head-down tilting at an angle of -15 degrees intermittent occlusion of only lower limbs by 60--30 mm Hg proved more effective.", "contents": "[Possibilities of preventing the adverse reactions in modeling the acute period of adaptation to weightlessness]. It has been shown that during head-down tilting at an angle of -30 degrees occlusion of the four limbs by 70 mm Hg relieved unpleasant symptoms. According to rheoencephalography, cerebral blood flow decreased to the level normally seen in the supine position. During a prolonged head-down tilting at an angle of -15 degrees intermittent occlusion of only lower limbs by 60--30 mm Hg proved more effective.", "PMID": 449264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8934", "title": "[Skeletal muscle mixed fiber tissue metabolism in rats after a flight on the Kosmos-690 biosatellite].", "content": "On the R+O day the quadriceps muscle of rats showed a decrease in the content of T protein and an inhibition of LDH activity of sacroplasmatic proteins. These changes resulted from the combined affect of space flight factors and gamma-irradiation, and may be considered as a decline of compensatory synthetic processes responsible for the recovery of muscle proteins in weightlessness. Inhibition of the age-associated shift of the M:H ratio of LDH found on the R+25 day can be attributed to the inhibitory effect of gamma-irradiation. No change in the content of glycogen in the gastrocnemius muscle of flight rats was noted.", "contents": "[Skeletal muscle mixed fiber tissue metabolism in rats after a flight on the Kosmos-690 biosatellite]. On the R+O day the quadriceps muscle of rats showed a decrease in the content of T protein and an inhibition of LDH activity of sacroplasmatic proteins. These changes resulted from the combined affect of space flight factors and gamma-irradiation, and may be considered as a decline of compensatory synthetic processes responsible for the recovery of muscle proteins in weightlessness. Inhibition of the age-associated shift of the M:H ratio of LDH found on the R+25 day can be attributed to the inhibitory effect of gamma-irradiation. No change in the content of glycogen in the gastrocnemius muscle of flight rats was noted.", "PMID": 449263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8935", "title": "Morphologic effects following massive exchange transfusions with a stroma-free hemoglobin solution. II. Kidney.", "content": "The effects on renal morphology of exchange transfusion with stroma-free hemoglobin solutions (SFHS) were compared in rats to the results obtained using an asanguineous resuscitative fluid containing albumin. Animals underwent 75 per cent blood volume replacement, and tissue collected at intervals after the exchange transfusion was examined by light and electron microscopy. Urine volumes, osmolarity, and pH also were determined, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were measured both before and after exchange transfusion. Hemoglobin was filtered through the renal glomerular basement membrane, and a portion was reabsorbed into the proximal tubular cells in the form of absorption droplets. Unabsorbed hemoglobin was excreted in the urine. Despite a distention of proximal and distal tubules 5 hours after exchange transfusion with SFHS, there was no ultrastructural evidence of renal parenchymal damage. Proximal tubular cells of albumin-exchanged animals contained fewer protein absorption droplets and no intraluminal material. The apparent higher rate of glomerular filtration of hemoglobin over albumin probably reflected the dissociation of hemoglobin into dimers, resulting in a diuresis. Urine volumes were 3 times greater in SFHS-exchanged animals than in albumin-treated rats, and the urine was relatively hypoosmolar in the former. The greater urine volumes in SFHS-treated animals also were associated with a large reduction in intravascular fluid volume. There was no alteration of serum creatinine or blood urea nitrogen after exchange transfusion with albumin and only a mild elevation in blood urea nitrogen in SFHS-treated rats. The latter most likely was a result of prerenal hypovolemia. SFHS, even when exchange-transfused in massive quantities, does not appear to affect renal function or ultrastructural morphology adversely. However, the rapid disappearance of hemoglobin from the intravascular space, the consequent loss of intravascular fluid volume, and the diuresis induced by its administration are complications which must be overcome before the product can be a useful adjunct in the treatment of hemorrhagic shock.", "contents": "Morphologic effects following massive exchange transfusions with a stroma-free hemoglobin solution. II. Kidney. The effects on renal morphology of exchange transfusion with stroma-free hemoglobin solutions (SFHS) were compared in rats to the results obtained using an asanguineous resuscitative fluid containing albumin. Animals underwent 75 per cent blood volume replacement, and tissue collected at intervals after the exchange transfusion was examined by light and electron microscopy. Urine volumes, osmolarity, and pH also were determined, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were measured both before and after exchange transfusion. Hemoglobin was filtered through the renal glomerular basement membrane, and a portion was reabsorbed into the proximal tubular cells in the form of absorption droplets. Unabsorbed hemoglobin was excreted in the urine. Despite a distention of proximal and distal tubules 5 hours after exchange transfusion with SFHS, there was no ultrastructural evidence of renal parenchymal damage. Proximal tubular cells of albumin-exchanged animals contained fewer protein absorption droplets and no intraluminal material. The apparent higher rate of glomerular filtration of hemoglobin over albumin probably reflected the dissociation of hemoglobin into dimers, resulting in a diuresis. Urine volumes were 3 times greater in SFHS-exchanged animals than in albumin-treated rats, and the urine was relatively hypoosmolar in the former. The greater urine volumes in SFHS-treated animals also were associated with a large reduction in intravascular fluid volume. There was no alteration of serum creatinine or blood urea nitrogen after exchange transfusion with albumin and only a mild elevation in blood urea nitrogen in SFHS-treated rats. The latter most likely was a result of prerenal hypovolemia. SFHS, even when exchange-transfused in massive quantities, does not appear to affect renal function or ultrastructural morphology adversely. However, the rapid disappearance of hemoglobin from the intravascular space, the consequent loss of intravascular fluid volume, and the diuresis induced by its administration are complications which must be overcome before the product can be a useful adjunct in the treatment of hemorrhagic shock.", "PMID": 449274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8936", "title": "Immune receptors (IgG-Fc and complement receptors) in normal human organs.", "content": "The presence of immune receptors (IgG-Fc and complement receptors) was examined in normal human tissues from various organs. Sheep erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit IgG antibody (IgG-EA) or with rabbit IgM antibody and human complement (IgM-EAC) were used for the detection of IgG-Fc receptors and complement receptors, respectively. IgG-Fc receptors were detected on sinuses of the lymph node, splenic red pulps, hepatic lobules, renal glomeruli, alveolar wall of the lung, intestinal villi, superifical layer of the synovium, and subcutaneous tissue. The presence of complement receptors was demonstrated in the follicles and the sinuses of lymph nodes, white pulp of the spleen, renal glomeruli, alveolar wall of the lung, and lamina propria of the intestine. The specific binding of IgG-EA was consistently inhibited by heat-aggregated human IgG or by a high concentration of native human IgG. The detection of immune receptors in these various tissues might be helpful for understanding why the immune complexes are often detected when immunologically mediated disease processes involve these tissues.", "contents": "Immune receptors (IgG-Fc and complement receptors) in normal human organs. The presence of immune receptors (IgG-Fc and complement receptors) was examined in normal human tissues from various organs. Sheep erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit IgG antibody (IgG-EA) or with rabbit IgM antibody and human complement (IgM-EAC) were used for the detection of IgG-Fc receptors and complement receptors, respectively. IgG-Fc receptors were detected on sinuses of the lymph node, splenic red pulps, hepatic lobules, renal glomeruli, alveolar wall of the lung, intestinal villi, superifical layer of the synovium, and subcutaneous tissue. The presence of complement receptors was demonstrated in the follicles and the sinuses of lymph nodes, white pulp of the spleen, renal glomeruli, alveolar wall of the lung, and lamina propria of the intestine. The specific binding of IgG-EA was consistently inhibited by heat-aggregated human IgG or by a high concentration of native human IgG. The detection of immune receptors in these various tissues might be helpful for understanding why the immune complexes are often detected when immunologically mediated disease processes involve these tissues.", "PMID": 449276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8937", "title": "[Animal tolerance to exposure to repeated impact acceleration].", "content": "The harmful effect of repeated impact accelerations on the animal body was studied. The dogs were exposed to accelerations one, three, five or ten times. The experiments showed a cumulative effect of repeated exposures which included a consistent increase of changes in the physiological and morphological parameters. Tolerance to repeated accelerations increased due to better restraint of the animals.", "contents": "[Animal tolerance to exposure to repeated impact acceleration]. The harmful effect of repeated impact accelerations on the animal body was studied. The dogs were exposed to accelerations one, three, five or ten times. The experiments showed a cumulative effect of repeated exposures which included a consistent increase of changes in the physiological and morphological parameters. Tolerance to repeated accelerations increased due to better restraint of the animals.", "PMID": 449269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8938", "title": "[Effect of acute hypoxia on the indices of kidney excretory function and renal hemodynamics].", "content": "Diuresis, glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption (endogenous creatinine clearance), renal blood and plasma flow, total resistance of renal vessels, and filtration fraction were measured in 59 patients with mechanical (strangulation) asphyxia. Asphyxia and resulting hypoxia induced a substantial increase of diuresis, glomerular filtration and a decrease of tubular reabsorption. Disorders of renal hemodynamics which involved a decrease of renal plasma and blood flow and an increase of total resistance of renal vessels contributed significantly to the mechanism of changes of the renal excretory function. As shown by vasographic and morphological examinations, the state of intrarenal hemodynamics plays the major role in changes of the renal function.", "contents": "[Effect of acute hypoxia on the indices of kidney excretory function and renal hemodynamics]. Diuresis, glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption (endogenous creatinine clearance), renal blood and plasma flow, total resistance of renal vessels, and filtration fraction were measured in 59 patients with mechanical (strangulation) asphyxia. Asphyxia and resulting hypoxia induced a substantial increase of diuresis, glomerular filtration and a decrease of tubular reabsorption. Disorders of renal hemodynamics which involved a decrease of renal plasma and blood flow and an increase of total resistance of renal vessels contributed significantly to the mechanism of changes of the renal excretory function. As shown by vasographic and morphological examinations, the state of intrarenal hemodynamics plays the major role in changes of the renal function.", "PMID": 449265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8939", "title": "[Oxygen toxicity in a mixture with helium].", "content": "A 3-day exposure of mice to a 20%--80% He-O2 environment at 28--30 degrees C led to an earlier decrease of gas exchange, a faster development of pulmonary inflammatory changes, and an earlier death of the animals as compared with an exposure to similar N2-O2 and He-O2 atmospheres at room temperature. The possible role of the indifferent gas in the toxic effect of oxygen on the animal body is discussed.", "contents": "[Oxygen toxicity in a mixture with helium]. A 3-day exposure of mice to a 20%--80% He-O2 environment at 28--30 degrees C led to an earlier decrease of gas exchange, a faster development of pulmonary inflammatory changes, and an earlier death of the animals as compared with an exposure to similar N2-O2 and He-O2 atmospheres at room temperature. The possible role of the indifferent gas in the toxic effect of oxygen on the animal body is discussed.", "PMID": 449266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8940", "title": "[Evaluation of the antiorthostatic reactions of the cerebral circulation].", "content": "On the basis of experiments on 122 healthy male test subjects the norms of reactions of cerebral circulation to antiorthostatic exposures, basic principles and evaluations of its antiorthostatic tolerance (AOT) were established. The level of AOT was found to increase in acrobats in the course of their training, in test subjects after 30-day head-down tilting, and in space crewmen postflight. This increase can be regarded as an adaptive reaction of cerebral circulation to the excess blood rush to the head both on the Earth and in weightlessness. The similarity of regulatory hemodynamic changes in the above groups shows the possibility and indicates approaches to the ground-based training of cerebral circulation aimed at facilitating and accelerating its adaptation to weightlessness.", "contents": "[Evaluation of the antiorthostatic reactions of the cerebral circulation]. On the basis of experiments on 122 healthy male test subjects the norms of reactions of cerebral circulation to antiorthostatic exposures, basic principles and evaluations of its antiorthostatic tolerance (AOT) were established. The level of AOT was found to increase in acrobats in the course of their training, in test subjects after 30-day head-down tilting, and in space crewmen postflight. This increase can be regarded as an adaptive reaction of cerebral circulation to the excess blood rush to the head both on the Earth and in weightlessness. The similarity of regulatory hemodynamic changes in the above groups shows the possibility and indicates approaches to the ground-based training of cerebral circulation aimed at facilitating and accelerating its adaptation to weightlessness.", "PMID": 449268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8941", "title": "[Blood albumin-globulin makeup in the crew of the Saliut-3 orbital station].", "content": "Postflight changes in the blood protein composition involving albumin and globulin fractions with the predominant increase of most globulin fractions and an increase of total protein were noted. These changes were adaptive. The content of gamma-globulin fractions returned to the normal within a comparatively short period of time (four days post-flight). A complete recovery of the changes in the protein composition of blood required a longer period of time.", "contents": "[Blood albumin-globulin makeup in the crew of the Saliut-3 orbital station]. Postflight changes in the blood protein composition involving albumin and globulin fractions with the predominant increase of most globulin fractions and an increase of total protein were noted. These changes were adaptive. The content of gamma-globulin fractions returned to the normal within a comparatively short period of time (four days post-flight). A complete recovery of the changes in the protein composition of blood required a longer period of time.", "PMID": 449261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8942", "title": "Ultrastructure of pulmonary mast cells in patients with fibrotic lung disorders.", "content": "The topographic distribution, population density, and ultrastructural features of metachromatic cells (mast cells and basophilic leukocytes) were studied in lung biopsies from five control patients and 17 patients with fibrotic lung disorders. The great majority of metachromatic cells were mast cells. The average number of metachromatic cells per square millimeter of tissue section was much larger in patients with fibrotic lung disorders (45.8 +/- 6.5) than in control patients (2.6 +/- 1.6). In control patients, mast cells were most frequently seen in subpleural and perivascular connective tissue. In contrast, the vast majority of mast cells in patients with fibrotic lung disorders was present in thickened, fibrous alveolar septa; mast cells also were found within the alveolar epithelial layer and alveolar lumina. The quantitative distribution of different types of mast cell granules differed in the two groups of patients: granules composed of scrolls were more frequent in control patients, and granules of the combined type (containing mixtures of different components within the same granule) were more frequent in patients with fibrotic lung disorders. Mast cells in the latter patients appeared to migrate through defects in the basement membrane into the epithelial layer and alveolar lumina; mast cells in these areas often showed reduced numbers of granules and disorganized granule content. These changes suggest that pulmonary parenchymal mast cells in fibrotic lung disorders undergo a chronic process of partial degranulation which differs from that found in anaphylaxis; this chronic release of mast cell products may contribute to the continuing alveolar injury and the ventilation-perfusion inequalities observed in the fibrotic lung disorders.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of pulmonary mast cells in patients with fibrotic lung disorders. The topographic distribution, population density, and ultrastructural features of metachromatic cells (mast cells and basophilic leukocytes) were studied in lung biopsies from five control patients and 17 patients with fibrotic lung disorders. The great majority of metachromatic cells were mast cells. The average number of metachromatic cells per square millimeter of tissue section was much larger in patients with fibrotic lung disorders (45.8 +/- 6.5) than in control patients (2.6 +/- 1.6). In control patients, mast cells were most frequently seen in subpleural and perivascular connective tissue. In contrast, the vast majority of mast cells in patients with fibrotic lung disorders was present in thickened, fibrous alveolar septa; mast cells also were found within the alveolar epithelial layer and alveolar lumina. The quantitative distribution of different types of mast cell granules differed in the two groups of patients: granules composed of scrolls were more frequent in control patients, and granules of the combined type (containing mixtures of different components within the same granule) were more frequent in patients with fibrotic lung disorders. Mast cells in the latter patients appeared to migrate through defects in the basement membrane into the epithelial layer and alveolar lumina; mast cells in these areas often showed reduced numbers of granules and disorganized granule content. These changes suggest that pulmonary parenchymal mast cells in fibrotic lung disorders undergo a chronic process of partial degranulation which differs from that found in anaphylaxis; this chronic release of mast cell products may contribute to the continuing alveolar injury and the ventilation-perfusion inequalities observed in the fibrotic lung disorders.", "PMID": 449278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8943", "title": "Alterations in the relative abundance of specific messenger ribonucleoproteins associated with compensatory renal hypertrophy.", "content": "A possible role of messenger RNA (mRNA)-associated proteins during compensatory renal hypertrophy in modulation of mRNA biogenesis has been examined in this investigation. Renal cytoplasmic free messenger ribonucleoprotein (CF mRNP) and polysomal mRNP (PA mRNP) have been isolated from kidney following 48 hours of compensatory renal hypertrophy, and the relative amounts of proteins associated with CF mRNP and PA mRNP in control and hypertrophying mouse kidney are compared. (CF mRNP refers to nonpolysomal messenger ribonucleoprotein found in the subribosomal region of sucrose gradients. PA mRNP or polysome-associated mRNP refers to mRNP released from polysomes.) CF mRNP has a buoyant density of 1.3 to 1.44 gm. per ml., contains RNA that sediments at 5 to 22 Svedberg units, and has a protein moiety comprising at least 15 polypeptides as revealed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. PA mRNP contains three major polypeptides (molecular weights, 77,000, 52,000 and 17,000). Following 48 hours of compensatory renal hypertrophy, the relative amounts of proteins are changed: a 44,000- and 52,000- molecular weight polypeptide in CF mRNP is increased, a 52,000-molecular weight polypeptide in PA mRNP is reduced, and a 17,000-molecular weight polypeptide in PA mRNP is increased.", "contents": "Alterations in the relative abundance of specific messenger ribonucleoproteins associated with compensatory renal hypertrophy. A possible role of messenger RNA (mRNA)-associated proteins during compensatory renal hypertrophy in modulation of mRNA biogenesis has been examined in this investigation. Renal cytoplasmic free messenger ribonucleoprotein (CF mRNP) and polysomal mRNP (PA mRNP) have been isolated from kidney following 48 hours of compensatory renal hypertrophy, and the relative amounts of proteins associated with CF mRNP and PA mRNP in control and hypertrophying mouse kidney are compared. (CF mRNP refers to nonpolysomal messenger ribonucleoprotein found in the subribosomal region of sucrose gradients. PA mRNP or polysome-associated mRNP refers to mRNP released from polysomes.) CF mRNP has a buoyant density of 1.3 to 1.44 gm. per ml., contains RNA that sediments at 5 to 22 Svedberg units, and has a protein moiety comprising at least 15 polypeptides as revealed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. PA mRNP contains three major polypeptides (molecular weights, 77,000, 52,000 and 17,000). Following 48 hours of compensatory renal hypertrophy, the relative amounts of proteins are changed: a 44,000- and 52,000- molecular weight polypeptide in CF mRNP is increased, a 52,000-molecular weight polypeptide in PA mRNP is reduced, and a 17,000-molecular weight polypeptide in PA mRNP is increased.", "PMID": 449280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8944", "title": "[Effect of short-term antiorthostatic hypokinesia on the pressure in various parts of the healthy human cardiovascular system].", "content": "Before and after 5-day head-down tilting (-4.5 degrees) blood pressure was measured in different cardiovascular compartments by the technique of selective catheterization: the upper bulb of the internal jugular vein, superior and inferior venae cavae, hepatic, renal and iliac veins, right atrium and right ventricle, coronary sinus, pulmonary and radial arteries. After exposure the pressure in extrathoracic vessels increased by 1.4 mm Hg on the average: in the internal jugular vein it rose by 1.7 mm Hg whereas in the iliac vein by 1.0 mm Hg. The blood pressure in the intrathoracic vessels of the systemic circulation increased, as a rule, by no more than 0.5--0.8 mm Hg. This elevation was characteristic of diastolic regions of the pressure curve (x- and y-collapse). The pressure in pulmonary vessels--pulmonary artery and left atrium--showed a trend for a decrease of 1.3 mm Hg. The factors that may be responsible for the dissimilar changes of pressure in different cardiovascular compartments under the influence of short-term simulated weightlessness are discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of short-term antiorthostatic hypokinesia on the pressure in various parts of the healthy human cardiovascular system]. Before and after 5-day head-down tilting (-4.5 degrees) blood pressure was measured in different cardiovascular compartments by the technique of selective catheterization: the upper bulb of the internal jugular vein, superior and inferior venae cavae, hepatic, renal and iliac veins, right atrium and right ventricle, coronary sinus, pulmonary and radial arteries. After exposure the pressure in extrathoracic vessels increased by 1.4 mm Hg on the average: in the internal jugular vein it rose by 1.7 mm Hg whereas in the iliac vein by 1.0 mm Hg. The blood pressure in the intrathoracic vessels of the systemic circulation increased, as a rule, by no more than 0.5--0.8 mm Hg. This elevation was characteristic of diastolic regions of the pressure curve (x- and y-collapse). The pressure in pulmonary vessels--pulmonary artery and left atrium--showed a trend for a decrease of 1.3 mm Hg. The factors that may be responsible for the dissimilar changes of pressure in different cardiovascular compartments under the influence of short-term simulated weightlessness are discussed.", "PMID": 449267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8945", "title": "5'-Nucleotidase levels in normal and virus-transformed cells: implications for cellular aging in vitro.", "content": "5'-Nucleotidase activity in the postnuclear supernatant of normal and SV-40 virus-transformed human embryonic lung, chick embryo, and mouse embryo fibroblasts, WI-38, IMR-90, VA-13, CEF, 3T3, and SV3T3 cells was measured. In IMR-90 and CEF cells, both of which have a limited lifespan in vitro, 5'-nucleotidase activity increased 6- and 20-fold, respectively, with increasing population doublings. However, VA-13 cells, a permanent cell line, showed no increase in this enzyme activity with progressive population doublings. 5'-Nucleotidase activity was not detectable in two other permanent cell lines, 3T3 and SV3T3 cells. Of the six cell lines tested, the conspicuous enhancement in 5'-nucleotidase activity with increasing population doublings was observed only in normal cell lines and was absent in transformed cell lines. These observations suggest a molecular mechanism which may play a role in aging of normal cells in vitro and which may involve catabolism of nucleic acids.", "contents": "5'-Nucleotidase levels in normal and virus-transformed cells: implications for cellular aging in vitro. 5'-Nucleotidase activity in the postnuclear supernatant of normal and SV-40 virus-transformed human embryonic lung, chick embryo, and mouse embryo fibroblasts, WI-38, IMR-90, VA-13, CEF, 3T3, and SV3T3 cells was measured. In IMR-90 and CEF cells, both of which have a limited lifespan in vitro, 5'-nucleotidase activity increased 6- and 20-fold, respectively, with increasing population doublings. However, VA-13 cells, a permanent cell line, showed no increase in this enzyme activity with progressive population doublings. 5'-Nucleotidase activity was not detectable in two other permanent cell lines, 3T3 and SV3T3 cells. Of the six cell lines tested, the conspicuous enhancement in 5'-nucleotidase activity with increasing population doublings was observed only in normal cell lines and was absent in transformed cell lines. These observations suggest a molecular mechanism which may play a role in aging of normal cells in vitro and which may involve catabolism of nucleic acids.", "PMID": 449279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8946", "title": "Post-traumatic tuberculoid leprosy. (A case report).", "content": "Inoculation Tuberculoid Leprosy has been described by various leprologists off and on and this mode of onset has been established. A case of tuberculoid leprosy over thumb, appearing after trauma in an Army recruit is described with the review of the literature.", "contents": "Post-traumatic tuberculoid leprosy. (A case report). Inoculation Tuberculoid Leprosy has been described by various leprologists off and on and this mode of onset has been established. A case of tuberculoid leprosy over thumb, appearing after trauma in an Army recruit is described with the review of the literature.", "PMID": 449281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8947", "title": "Immunological assessment of sera of leprosy patients.", "content": "IgG levels were significantly high in sera of all types of leprosy. House-hold contacts of lepromatous leprosy (LL) cases also showed significantly higher values for IgG when compared to that of control. Except polar tuberculoid (TT) cases and house-hold contacts other types of leprosy revealed a significant rise in IgA levels in their sera. IgM was only raised in borderline tuberculoid (BT) cases. C-reactive protein (CRP) was present in the sera of all types of leprosy. Highest positivity (97%) was shown by sera from erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) cases. Rose-Waaler antibody (RA) was noted in BT, borderline leprosy (BL), LL and ENL cases. Significance of these findings is discussed.", "contents": "Immunological assessment of sera of leprosy patients. IgG levels were significantly high in sera of all types of leprosy. House-hold contacts of lepromatous leprosy (LL) cases also showed significantly higher values for IgG when compared to that of control. Except polar tuberculoid (TT) cases and house-hold contacts other types of leprosy revealed a significant rise in IgA levels in their sera. IgM was only raised in borderline tuberculoid (BT) cases. C-reactive protein (CRP) was present in the sera of all types of leprosy. Highest positivity (97%) was shown by sera from erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) cases. Rose-Waaler antibody (RA) was noted in BT, borderline leprosy (BL), LL and ENL cases. Significance of these findings is discussed.", "PMID": 449283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8948", "title": "In vivo response of mast cells to lepromatous serum.", "content": "Adult healthly mice of pure line Institute strain were given, into the foot pad, an intradermal injection of normal human serum in group A and lepromatous serum in group B. In both groups, the animals were killed at varying time intervals. Serial paraffin sections of the foot pad skin 5--7 mu thick, were cut and stained with haematoxylin and eosin, toludine blue, acridine orange and para-bromaniline. On comparing the two groups, in group B the response of mast cells was more prompt, pronounced and persistant. The increase in the number of cells was accompanied by explosive degranulation around nerves, blood vessels and muscles. This response became less by 15 days but did not disappear completely. There were still few intact cells in the dermis. Histamine, heparin and 5-Ht showed a corresponding rise. The importance of the findings is discussed.", "contents": "In vivo response of mast cells to lepromatous serum. Adult healthly mice of pure line Institute strain were given, into the foot pad, an intradermal injection of normal human serum in group A and lepromatous serum in group B. In both groups, the animals were killed at varying time intervals. Serial paraffin sections of the foot pad skin 5--7 mu thick, were cut and stained with haematoxylin and eosin, toludine blue, acridine orange and para-bromaniline. On comparing the two groups, in group B the response of mast cells was more prompt, pronounced and persistant. The increase in the number of cells was accompanied by explosive degranulation around nerves, blood vessels and muscles. This response became less by 15 days but did not disappear completely. There were still few intact cells in the dermis. Histamine, heparin and 5-Ht showed a corresponding rise. The importance of the findings is discussed.", "PMID": 449284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8949", "title": "Influence of rifampicin on D.D.S. excretion in urine.", "content": "The plasma half-lives and urinary excretion levels of DDS were compared before and during concurrent administration of Rifampicin in 23 cases of active lepromatous leprosy. The plasma half-life of DDS was found to be slightly less during Rifampicin administration. The urinary excretion of DDS was found to be consistently enhanced in all the cases, particularly duotal duration of Rifampicin therapy. The findings are discussed.", "contents": "Influence of rifampicin on D.D.S. excretion in urine. The plasma half-lives and urinary excretion levels of DDS were compared before and during concurrent administration of Rifampicin in 23 cases of active lepromatous leprosy. The plasma half-life of DDS was found to be slightly less during Rifampicin administration. The urinary excretion of DDS was found to be consistently enhanced in all the cases, particularly duotal duration of Rifampicin therapy. The findings are discussed.", "PMID": 449285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8950", "title": "Squamous cell carcinoma arising from trophic ulcers.", "content": "This study presents two cases of Squamous Cell Carcinomas arising from trophic ulcers of leprosy attending Leprosy Department, Government General Hospital, Madras. The aim of this presentation is to analyse these cases in the light of the earlier reports and to draw attention to certain significant features of them.", "contents": "Squamous cell carcinoma arising from trophic ulcers. This study presents two cases of Squamous Cell Carcinomas arising from trophic ulcers of leprosy attending Leprosy Department, Government General Hospital, Madras. The aim of this presentation is to analyse these cases in the light of the earlier reports and to draw attention to certain significant features of them.", "PMID": 449288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8951", "title": "The association of leprosy and pulmonary tuberculosis.", "content": "The association of leprosy with pulmonary tuberculosis was seen in 20 cases during January 1972 to October 1977. Of these 20 cases, 15 were of lepromatous, 3 of dimorphous and 2 of tuberculoid leprosy. Maximum number of cases were from 3rd decade of life with male to female ratio of 3 : 1. Patients were suffering from the disease for a very long time (8 cases of lepromatous leprosy with duration of illness 10-15 years). The symptoms of leprosy seemed to have preceded to the symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis. Duration of tuberculosis in most of them was within 6 months (55%). The predominent presenting symptom was cough with expectoration (100%) and fever (80%). Anaemia (75%) and crepitations (60%) were the presenting physical sign mainly. Radiologically bilateral extensive pulmonary lessons were seen in 14 cases (70%). Sputum for acid fast bacilli was positive in 80% of cases. The general condition and nutritional status was poor and death was resulted in 4 cases (3 of lepromatous and 1 of dimorphous leprosy).", "contents": "The association of leprosy and pulmonary tuberculosis. The association of leprosy with pulmonary tuberculosis was seen in 20 cases during January 1972 to October 1977. Of these 20 cases, 15 were of lepromatous, 3 of dimorphous and 2 of tuberculoid leprosy. Maximum number of cases were from 3rd decade of life with male to female ratio of 3 : 1. Patients were suffering from the disease for a very long time (8 cases of lepromatous leprosy with duration of illness 10-15 years). The symptoms of leprosy seemed to have preceded to the symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis. Duration of tuberculosis in most of them was within 6 months (55%). The predominent presenting symptom was cough with expectoration (100%) and fever (80%). Anaemia (75%) and crepitations (60%) were the presenting physical sign mainly. Radiologically bilateral extensive pulmonary lessons were seen in 14 cases (70%). Sputum for acid fast bacilli was positive in 80% of cases. The general condition and nutritional status was poor and death was resulted in 4 cases (3 of lepromatous and 1 of dimorphous leprosy).", "PMID": 449287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8952", "title": "Study of non-lepromatous leprosy among Indian Armed Forces personnel.", "content": "Clinico-histopathological study of 50 cases of Non-lepromatous leprosy among Indian Armed Forces personnel is presented. Maximum cases were of Tuberculoid (TT) type. Thirty four individuals were having single lesions. Posterior aspect of elbow and medial aspect of forearm were the favourite sites. Both Indian and Ridley and Jopling classification was studied while classifying the lesions. The individuals belonged to almost all the states of India. All of them denied the history of contact with a known case of leprosy. The highest prevalent age group was between 20 to 30 years. Two cases of Tuberculoid and 3 of Maculo-anaesthetic leprosy were without involvement of nerves.", "contents": "Study of non-lepromatous leprosy among Indian Armed Forces personnel. Clinico-histopathological study of 50 cases of Non-lepromatous leprosy among Indian Armed Forces personnel is presented. Maximum cases were of Tuberculoid (TT) type. Thirty four individuals were having single lesions. Posterior aspect of elbow and medial aspect of forearm were the favourite sites. Both Indian and Ridley and Jopling classification was studied while classifying the lesions. The individuals belonged to almost all the states of India. All of them denied the history of contact with a known case of leprosy. The highest prevalent age group was between 20 to 30 years. Two cases of Tuberculoid and 3 of Maculo-anaesthetic leprosy were without involvement of nerves.", "PMID": 449289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8953", "title": "Comparison of the reaction to Dharmendra antigen in the normal skin and in the lesion of leprosy patients.", "content": "In this study 0.1 ml of Dharmendra antigen was injected intradermally into the normal skin and lesions of 35 leprosy patients. The response was measured at 24 hrs., 48 hrs. and 21 days. It was found that the maximum response to Dharmendra antigen occurred at the end of 24 hrs. and started wanning by 48 hrs. In tuberculoid leprosy, there was significantly greater response in the lesion as compared with the nearby normal skin. It has been suggested that this could reflect an increased immunological activity at the site of the lesion. In the borderline tuberculoid cases with annular lesions, Dharmendra antigen was injected into the peripheral infiltrated area and into the apparently normal centre of the lesion, and a greater response was found at the centre. This might be the site of a previous lesion. The late reaction at the end of 21 days did not show much significant difference.", "contents": "Comparison of the reaction to Dharmendra antigen in the normal skin and in the lesion of leprosy patients. In this study 0.1 ml of Dharmendra antigen was injected intradermally into the normal skin and lesions of 35 leprosy patients. The response was measured at 24 hrs., 48 hrs. and 21 days. It was found that the maximum response to Dharmendra antigen occurred at the end of 24 hrs. and started wanning by 48 hrs. In tuberculoid leprosy, there was significantly greater response in the lesion as compared with the nearby normal skin. It has been suggested that this could reflect an increased immunological activity at the site of the lesion. In the borderline tuberculoid cases with annular lesions, Dharmendra antigen was injected into the peripheral infiltrated area and into the apparently normal centre of the lesion, and a greater response was found at the centre. This might be the site of a previous lesion. The late reaction at the end of 21 days did not show much significant difference.", "PMID": 449290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8954", "title": "Some observations on default among leprosy patients.", "content": "The problem of default or irregularity in taking the medicine is a great hinderance to the eradication of the disease. An attempt has been made here to judge this problem from various angles and to pin point the factors leading to default. A cohort of 253 patients have been comprehensively interviewed and the results have been analysed statistically.", "contents": "Some observations on default among leprosy patients. The problem of default or irregularity in taking the medicine is a great hinderance to the eradication of the disease. An attempt has been made here to judge this problem from various angles and to pin point the factors leading to default. A cohort of 253 patients have been comprehensively interviewed and the results have been analysed statistically.", "PMID": 449291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8955", "title": "Employee alcoholism policies in New York state hospitals.", "content": "Of 179 hospitals responding to a questionnaire survey of 301 nonfederal short-term general hospitals in New York State, only 15 had a written policy concerning employee alcoholism.", "contents": "Employee alcoholism policies in New York state hospitals. Of 179 hospitals responding to a questionnaire survey of 301 nonfederal short-term general hospitals in New York State, only 15 had a written policy concerning employee alcoholism.", "PMID": 449326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8956", "title": "Ethanol-inhibited platelet prostaglandin synthesis in vitro.", "content": "Inhibition of human platelet malonyldialdehyde (an indicator of platelet prostaglandin synthesis) in platelet-rich plasma, not found after 100 mg of ethanol per 100 ml in vitro, was dose-related at 200, 400 and 750 mg per 100 ml.", "contents": "Ethanol-inhibited platelet prostaglandin synthesis in vitro. Inhibition of human platelet malonyldialdehyde (an indicator of platelet prostaglandin synthesis) in platelet-rich plasma, not found after 100 mg of ethanol per 100 ml in vitro, was dose-related at 200, 400 and 750 mg per 100 ml.", "PMID": 449324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8957", "title": "MAC scale scores of three samples of men under conditions of conventional versus independent scale administration.", "content": "When the MAC scale was administered both independently and in the context of the complete Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory to three samples of men, only negligible differences were found between the scores obtained under the two conditions of administration.", "contents": "MAC scale scores of three samples of men under conditions of conventional versus independent scale administration. When the MAC scale was administered both independently and in the context of the complete Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory to three samples of men, only negligible differences were found between the scores obtained under the two conditions of administration.", "PMID": 449329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8958", "title": "Hepatotoxicity in disulfiram-treated patients.", "content": "Thirty-five alcoholics receiving disulfiram for 3 weeks showed no dose-related hepatotoxicity compared with controls, but 9 did exhibit non-dose-related subclinical hepatotoxicity.", "contents": "Hepatotoxicity in disulfiram-treated patients. Thirty-five alcoholics receiving disulfiram for 3 weeks showed no dose-related hepatotoxicity compared with controls, but 9 did exhibit non-dose-related subclinical hepatotoxicity.", "PMID": 449328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8959", "title": "Reliability of an alcohol self-report instrument.", "content": "According to testing and retesting of alcoholics admitted to a detoxication center, the reliability of the Alcohol History Form is comparable to that of most other psychometric instruments.", "contents": "Reliability of an alcohol self-report instrument. According to testing and retesting of alcoholics admitted to a detoxication center, the reliability of the Alcohol History Form is comparable to that of most other psychometric instruments.", "PMID": 449330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8960", "title": "Augmentation of alcohol consumption by caffeine in malnourished rats.", "content": "The alcohol consumption of malnourished rats increased substantially when caffeine, but not isohedonic quinine, was added to their available fluids. The effect was not observed in rats receiving an adequate diet. Conversely, food restriction raised alcohol consumption substantially in adequately fed but not in malnourished rats.", "contents": "Augmentation of alcohol consumption by caffeine in malnourished rats. The alcohol consumption of malnourished rats increased substantially when caffeine, but not isohedonic quinine, was added to their available fluids. The effect was not observed in rats receiving an adequate diet. Conversely, food restriction raised alcohol consumption substantially in adequately fed but not in malnourished rats.", "PMID": 449333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8961", "title": "Relationship of socioeconomic status, psychiatric diagnosis and sex to outcome of alcoholism treatment.", "content": "At 2 1/2 to 5 years after treatment at a psychiatric hospital, 68 of the 100 patients followed up were considered improved: 60% were of upper socioeconomic status, 64% were men, and 72% had received diagnoses of psychoneuroses or personality disorders.", "contents": "Relationship of socioeconomic status, psychiatric diagnosis and sex to outcome of alcoholism treatment. At 2 1/2 to 5 years after treatment at a psychiatric hospital, 68 of the 100 patients followed up were considered improved: 60% were of upper socioeconomic status, 64% were men, and 72% had received diagnoses of psychoneuroses or personality disorders.", "PMID": 449336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8962", "title": "A follow-up study of male halfway-house residents and matched nonresident controls.", "content": "Men in a halfway-house sample had more detoxication readmissions but fewer drunkenness arrests in a 3-month follow-up period than did their matched controls; the total number of documented drunkenness episodes did not differ in the two groups.", "contents": "A follow-up study of male halfway-house residents and matched nonresident controls. Men in a halfway-house sample had more detoxication readmissions but fewer drunkenness arrests in a 3-month follow-up period than did their matched controls; the total number of documented drunkenness episodes did not differ in the two groups.", "PMID": 449337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8963", "title": "Driving records of persons convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol.", "content": "The average interval between convictions of driving under the influence decreases from 2 years between first and second convictions to 17, 11 and 8 months, respectively, between the second and third, the third and fourth and the fourth and fifth convictions.", "contents": "Driving records of persons convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol. The average interval between convictions of driving under the influence decreases from 2 years between first and second convictions to 17, 11 and 8 months, respectively, between the second and third, the third and fourth and the fourth and fifth convictions.", "PMID": 449339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8964", "title": "Family characteristics and the outcome of treatment for alcoholism.", "content": "Families in which the alcoholic patient showed better treatment outcome were higher than the other in cohesion, active-recreational orientation and organization, and lower in conflict and control; they also experienced more positive and fewer negative life events, and reported fewer physical and emotional symptoms and disagreements.", "contents": "Family characteristics and the outcome of treatment for alcoholism. Families in which the alcoholic patient showed better treatment outcome were higher than the other in cohesion, active-recreational orientation and organization, and lower in conflict and control; they also experienced more positive and fewer negative life events, and reported fewer physical and emotional symptoms and disagreements.", "PMID": 449340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8965", "title": "An experimental treatment program for alcoholic couples.", "content": "An experimental treatment program for alcoholic couples, which included a period of conjoint hospitalization during which drinking was allowed, is described.", "contents": "An experimental treatment program for alcoholic couples. An experimental treatment program for alcoholic couples, which included a period of conjoint hospitalization during which drinking was allowed, is described.", "PMID": 449341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8966", "title": "Marital conflict resolution of alcoholic and nonalcoholic couples during drinking and nondrinking sessions.", "content": "The marital interactions of alcoholics and their wives did not differ significantly from those of nonalcoholic maritally distressed couples, but both differed from the interactions of nonalcoholic, nondistressed couples.", "contents": "Marital conflict resolution of alcoholic and nonalcoholic couples during drinking and nondrinking sessions. The marital interactions of alcoholics and their wives did not differ significantly from those of nonalcoholic maritally distressed couples, but both differed from the interactions of nonalcoholic, nondistressed couples.", "PMID": 449342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8967", "title": "The detoxication alternative to the handling of public inebriates. The Ontario experience.", "content": "A review of the Ontario experience in the development of a public health alternative to the handling of public inebriates has revealed some difficulties inherent in this approach to reform.", "contents": "The detoxication alternative to the handling of public inebriates. The Ontario experience. A review of the Ontario experience in the development of a public health alternative to the handling of public inebriates has revealed some difficulties inherent in this approach to reform.", "PMID": 449343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8968", "title": "Clients' characteristics and the expectations of staff in halfway houses for alcoholics.", "content": "In 23 halfway houses in Florida, the percentage of men residents, the percentage of residents who were employed and the mean weekly earnings of patients were positively related to the average staff member's expectations that residents would behave independently.", "contents": "Clients' characteristics and the expectations of staff in halfway houses for alcoholics. In 23 halfway houses in Florida, the percentage of men residents, the percentage of residents who were employed and the mean weekly earnings of patients were positively related to the average staff member's expectations that residents would behave independently.", "PMID": 449344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8969", "title": "EEG alpha correlates of alcohol consumption in smokers and nonsmokers. Effects of smoking and smoking deprivation.", "content": "Tobacco smoking either prior to or during alcohol consumption or both counteracted the alcohol-induced slowing of alpha frequency which was evident in both nonsmokers and deprived smokers.", "contents": "EEG alpha correlates of alcohol consumption in smokers and nonsmokers. Effects of smoking and smoking deprivation. Tobacco smoking either prior to or during alcohol consumption or both counteracted the alcohol-induced slowing of alpha frequency which was evident in both nonsmokers and deprived smokers.", "PMID": 449345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8970", "title": "An application of the multidimensional model of alcoholism. Differentiation of alcoholics by mode analysis.", "content": "Cluster analysis of the responses of 563 alcoholics on the Human Services Scale revealed 5 homogeneous groups.", "contents": "An application of the multidimensional model of alcoholism. Differentiation of alcoholics by mode analysis. Cluster analysis of the responses of 563 alcoholics on the Human Services Scale revealed 5 homogeneous groups.", "PMID": 449347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8971", "title": "The Adolescent Alcohol Involvement Scale. An instrument for measuring adolescents' use and misuse of alcohol.", "content": "The reliability of the scale was measured by the test-retest scores of adolescent alcoholics and adolescents who drink infrequently; its validity was assessed by psychiatrists' and others' ratings of the items, the scores of adolescents reporting alcohol misuse and the factor-analyzed scores of a large population of high-school studnets.", "contents": "The Adolescent Alcohol Involvement Scale. An instrument for measuring adolescents' use and misuse of alcohol. The reliability of the scale was measured by the test-retest scores of adolescent alcoholics and adolescents who drink infrequently; its validity was assessed by psychiatrists' and others' ratings of the items, the scores of adolescents reporting alcohol misuse and the factor-analyzed scores of a large population of high-school studnets.", "PMID": 449348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8972", "title": "Reported effects of alcohol on the sexual feelings and behavior of women alcoholics and nonalcoholics.", "content": "Women alcoholics were more likely than nonalcoholics to report that they desire, engage in and enjoy sexual intercourse more after drinking. Reproductive dysfunction was more typical of women having various types of psychopathology (including alcoholism) than of normal women.", "contents": "Reported effects of alcohol on the sexual feelings and behavior of women alcoholics and nonalcoholics. Women alcoholics were more likely than nonalcoholics to report that they desire, engage in and enjoy sexual intercourse more after drinking. Reproductive dysfunction was more typical of women having various types of psychopathology (including alcoholism) than of normal women.", "PMID": 449346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8973", "title": "Alcohol consumption and the incidence of violent crime.", "content": "The incidence of violent crime in an industrialized area of Ontario was positively correlated with sales of alcoholic beverages to establishments licensed to serve them on premises and negatively correlated with mean income and percentage of owner-occupied dwellings.", "contents": "Alcohol consumption and the incidence of violent crime. The incidence of violent crime in an industrialized area of Ontario was positively correlated with sales of alcoholic beverages to establishments licensed to serve them on premises and negatively correlated with mean income and percentage of owner-occupied dwellings.", "PMID": 449349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8974", "title": "In-home support for recovering alcoholic mothers and their families; the family rehabilitation coordinator project.", "content": "A program is described for training paraprofessional workers to aid recovering alcoholic mothers and their families to improve household organization and communication and to use community services.", "contents": "In-home support for recovering alcoholic mothers and their families; the family rehabilitation coordinator project. A program is described for training paraprofessional workers to aid recovering alcoholic mothers and their families to improve household organization and communication and to use community services.", "PMID": 449350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8975", "title": "Effect of preoperative intralesional BCG and postoperative 5-FU chemotherapy in three adenocarcinoma lines in rats.", "content": "In No. 13762 mammary adenocarcinoma, it has been shown that the combination of tumor infiltration with BCG and of subsequent surgery is more curative than either treatment modality alone. And the administration of postoperative systemic 5-fluorouracil (D-FU) is equally effective in eliminating the visceral metastasis and prolonging the host survival. In the experiments reported here, two other spontaneously metastasizing adenocarcinoma lines were similarly treated. Postoperative 5-FU chemotherapy, but not intralesional BCG, significantly improved survival duration of rats with SMT-2A mammary adenocarcinoma, but neither chemotherapy nor BCG immunotherapy was effective in the new colonic adenocarcinoma line.", "contents": "Effect of preoperative intralesional BCG and postoperative 5-FU chemotherapy in three adenocarcinoma lines in rats. In No. 13762 mammary adenocarcinoma, it has been shown that the combination of tumor infiltration with BCG and of subsequent surgery is more curative than either treatment modality alone. And the administration of postoperative systemic 5-fluorouracil (D-FU) is equally effective in eliminating the visceral metastasis and prolonging the host survival. In the experiments reported here, two other spontaneously metastasizing adenocarcinoma lines were similarly treated. Postoperative 5-FU chemotherapy, but not intralesional BCG, significantly improved survival duration of rats with SMT-2A mammary adenocarcinoma, but neither chemotherapy nor BCG immunotherapy was effective in the new colonic adenocarcinoma line.", "PMID": 449359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8976", "title": "Relationship of race to functional status among breast cancer patients after curative surgery.", "content": "Analysis of functional status of 197 breast cancer patients three years after curative radical mastectomy indicated a cumulative probability of disability of 25%, whereas the probability of death regardless of prior disability was 40.5%. Analysis of functional status by patient characteristics indicated that nonwhites were three times more likely than whites to experience disability (P less than 0.01) as defined in terms of their ability to carry on normal activities without assistance. Although whites and nonwhites were diagnosed at similar stages of disease, nonwhites were, on average, eight years younger than whites. They younger age may reflect a larger proportion of premenopausal breast cancer cases among nonwhites, which if associated with more rapidly progressing disease could account for their poorer prognosis. Alternatively there may exist factors in the nonwhites' social or economic environment that limited the ability of the family to care for the patient at home. These data reaffirm the need to monitor closely breast cancer patients to diagnose acute complications, and they indicate that most patients can resume normal activities shortly after curative surgery.", "contents": "Relationship of race to functional status among breast cancer patients after curative surgery. Analysis of functional status of 197 breast cancer patients three years after curative radical mastectomy indicated a cumulative probability of disability of 25%, whereas the probability of death regardless of prior disability was 40.5%. Analysis of functional status by patient characteristics indicated that nonwhites were three times more likely than whites to experience disability (P less than 0.01) as defined in terms of their ability to carry on normal activities without assistance. Although whites and nonwhites were diagnosed at similar stages of disease, nonwhites were, on average, eight years younger than whites. They younger age may reflect a larger proportion of premenopausal breast cancer cases among nonwhites, which if associated with more rapidly progressing disease could account for their poorer prognosis. Alternatively there may exist factors in the nonwhites' social or economic environment that limited the ability of the family to care for the patient at home. These data reaffirm the need to monitor closely breast cancer patients to diagnose acute complications, and they indicate that most patients can resume normal activities shortly after curative surgery.", "PMID": 449360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8977", "title": "Visceral neoplasia presenting at the umbilicus.", "content": "An umbilical mass as the presenting and only symptom of an underlying visceral carcinoma is an infrequent occurrence. The implications of such a finding are illustrated by four examples, with primary tumors in pancreas, colon, and ovary. Adenocarcinoma in the umbilicus represents a metastatic deposit until proved otherwise. Further diagnostic evaluation to localize the primary tumor should be based upon therapeutic implications. The need for abdominal exploration must be individualized.", "contents": "Visceral neoplasia presenting at the umbilicus. An umbilical mass as the presenting and only symptom of an underlying visceral carcinoma is an infrequent occurrence. The implications of such a finding are illustrated by four examples, with primary tumors in pancreas, colon, and ovary. Adenocarcinoma in the umbilicus represents a metastatic deposit until proved otherwise. Further diagnostic evaluation to localize the primary tumor should be based upon therapeutic implications. The need for abdominal exploration must be individualized.", "PMID": 449361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8978", "title": "Septic arthritis: a complication of BCG immunotherapy.", "content": "A new complication of cutaneous vaccination for immune therapy is reported: non-acid-fast bacteremia with metastatic septic arthritis. Systemic antibiotics should be administered prophylactically in patients with signs and symptoms of local infection, particularly in the presence of orthopedic prostheses or valvular heart disease.", "contents": "Septic arthritis: a complication of BCG immunotherapy. A new complication of cutaneous vaccination for immune therapy is reported: non-acid-fast bacteremia with metastatic septic arthritis. Systemic antibiotics should be administered prophylactically in patients with signs and symptoms of local infection, particularly in the presence of orthopedic prostheses or valvular heart disease.", "PMID": 449362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8979", "title": "Comparison of intraoperative nitroprusside unloading in mitral and aortic regurgitation.", "content": "To compare the hemodynamic effect of vasodilator therapy on different regurgitant lesions, we infused sodium nitroprusside intraooperatively in 12 patients with mitral regurgitation and 15 with aortic regurgitation. During the critical period preceding establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass, both groups had developed intense vasoconstriction and cardiac decompensation. All demonstrated improved cardiac function with vasodilator therapy; however, the degree of improvement with nitroprusside differed in the two groups. Stroke volume increased 10 ml. per beat per meter squared in those patients with aortic regurgitation and only 6 ml. per beat per meter squared in those with mitral regurgitation (p less than 0.05). The percent increase in stoke volume induced by nitroprusside was inversely correlated to the preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (r = 0.44, p less than 0.02). Patients with aortic regurgitation had lower preoperative left ventricular ejection fractions than those with mitral regurgitation (0.53 versus 0.63, p less than 0.02). Therefore, we conclude that patients with aortic regurgitation derived greater intraoperative hemodynamic benefit from unloading with nitroprusside, because they came to surgery with greater impairment of left ventricular contractility. Although nitroprusside improved cardiac function in both groups, only the patients with aortic regurgitation achieved normal pulmonary artery pressure (17 torr) and pulmonary vascular resistance (2.1 units) as a result of unloading. Those with mitral regurgitation continued to have pulmonary hypertension (28 torr) and increased pulmonary vascular resistance (3.9 units) despite vasodilator therapy. Thus the data suggest that patients with mitral regurgitation derived less hemodynamic benefit from intraoperative nitroprusside therapy because they were also limited by right ventricular dysfunction and a less responsive pulmonary vasculature.", "contents": "Comparison of intraoperative nitroprusside unloading in mitral and aortic regurgitation. To compare the hemodynamic effect of vasodilator therapy on different regurgitant lesions, we infused sodium nitroprusside intraooperatively in 12 patients with mitral regurgitation and 15 with aortic regurgitation. During the critical period preceding establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass, both groups had developed intense vasoconstriction and cardiac decompensation. All demonstrated improved cardiac function with vasodilator therapy; however, the degree of improvement with nitroprusside differed in the two groups. Stroke volume increased 10 ml. per beat per meter squared in those patients with aortic regurgitation and only 6 ml. per beat per meter squared in those with mitral regurgitation (p less than 0.05). The percent increase in stoke volume induced by nitroprusside was inversely correlated to the preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (r = 0.44, p less than 0.02). Patients with aortic regurgitation had lower preoperative left ventricular ejection fractions than those with mitral regurgitation (0.53 versus 0.63, p less than 0.02). Therefore, we conclude that patients with aortic regurgitation derived greater intraoperative hemodynamic benefit from unloading with nitroprusside, because they came to surgery with greater impairment of left ventricular contractility. Although nitroprusside improved cardiac function in both groups, only the patients with aortic regurgitation achieved normal pulmonary artery pressure (17 torr) and pulmonary vascular resistance (2.1 units) as a result of unloading. Those with mitral regurgitation continued to have pulmonary hypertension (28 torr) and increased pulmonary vascular resistance (3.9 units) despite vasodilator therapy. Thus the data suggest that patients with mitral regurgitation derived less hemodynamic benefit from intraoperative nitroprusside therapy because they were also limited by right ventricular dysfunction and a less responsive pulmonary vasculature.", "PMID": 449373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8980", "title": "Ventricular tachycardia secondary to aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva.", "content": "A patient with unruptured aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva presented because of ventricular tachycardia refractory to medical therapy. The underlying problem was not suspected until cardiac catheterization. Once the aneurysm was repaired, the tachycardia was abolished; the patient required no antiarrhythmic drugs. Two points are emphasized: First, cardiac catheterization is often indicated early in cases of ventricular tachycardia without obvious cause. Second, recurrent ventricular tachycardia is a hitherto unreported but important complication of sinus of Valsalva aneurysm.", "contents": "Ventricular tachycardia secondary to aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva. A patient with unruptured aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva presented because of ventricular tachycardia refractory to medical therapy. The underlying problem was not suspected until cardiac catheterization. Once the aneurysm was repaired, the tachycardia was abolished; the patient required no antiarrhythmic drugs. Two points are emphasized: First, cardiac catheterization is often indicated early in cases of ventricular tachycardia without obvious cause. Second, recurrent ventricular tachycardia is a hitherto unreported but important complication of sinus of Valsalva aneurysm.", "PMID": 449374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8981", "title": "Compression of superior vena cava associated with aneurysmal dilatation of left atrium.", "content": "A patient with rheumatic mitral valve disease and persistently elevated jugular venous pressure (JVP) is described. Angiography revealed a valve-like structure in the superior vena cava (SVC) at the site where a pressure gradient was recorded. At operation, this previously unreported anomaly proved to have been caused by aneurysmal dilatation of the left atrium which exerted traction on the pericardial insertion to the SVC. Disinsertion of the pericardial attachment to the vena cava at the time of mitral valve replacement released the compression. Postoperatively, the JVP became normal.", "contents": "Compression of superior vena cava associated with aneurysmal dilatation of left atrium. A patient with rheumatic mitral valve disease and persistently elevated jugular venous pressure (JVP) is described. Angiography revealed a valve-like structure in the superior vena cava (SVC) at the site where a pressure gradient was recorded. At operation, this previously unreported anomaly proved to have been caused by aneurysmal dilatation of the left atrium which exerted traction on the pericardial insertion to the SVC. Disinsertion of the pericardial attachment to the vena cava at the time of mitral valve replacement released the compression. Postoperatively, the JVP became normal.", "PMID": 449375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8982", "title": "Anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery in association with intracardiac lesions. Report of two cases.", "content": "Two cases are presented to illustrate the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma when an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery occurs with a hemodynamically significant intracardiac lesion. Hemodynamic alterations resulting from the associated intracardiac lesion may obscure the clinical features of the coronary arterial abnormality, and the appearance of normal coronary arterial distribution with left ventricular or aortic root angiography may create a false impression of a normal origin of the coronary arterial supply. A high index of suspicion may be the only lead to the detection of an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery in association with an intracardiac lesion. In addition to the intracardiac lesion known to be associated with coronary arterial abnormalities, the question of anomalous coronary supply should be raised by the finding of poor left ventricular function or mitral insufficiency after operation (unexplainable by other causes), by the development of poor myocardial function during cardiac catheterization or anesthesia, or by the significant enlargement of a coronary artery seen during left ventriculography or supravalvular aortography.", "contents": "Anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery in association with intracardiac lesions. Report of two cases. Two cases are presented to illustrate the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma when an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery occurs with a hemodynamically significant intracardiac lesion. Hemodynamic alterations resulting from the associated intracardiac lesion may obscure the clinical features of the coronary arterial abnormality, and the appearance of normal coronary arterial distribution with left ventricular or aortic root angiography may create a false impression of a normal origin of the coronary arterial supply. A high index of suspicion may be the only lead to the detection of an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery in association with an intracardiac lesion. In addition to the intracardiac lesion known to be associated with coronary arterial abnormalities, the question of anomalous coronary supply should be raised by the finding of poor left ventricular function or mitral insufficiency after operation (unexplainable by other causes), by the development of poor myocardial function during cardiac catheterization or anesthesia, or by the significant enlargement of a coronary artery seen during left ventriculography or supravalvular aortography.", "PMID": 449377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8983", "title": "Acute mitral valvular obstruction from infective endocarditis: echocardiographic diagnosis and report of the second successfully treated case.", "content": "Severe mitral stenosis of rapid onset and progression was observed in a patient with infective endocarditis superimposed upon mild rheumatic mitral valvular stenosis. This severe stenosis resulted from large vegetations impinging upon the mitral valve orifice. Preoperative studies indicating mitral stenosis with vegetations and pulmonary edema were followed by emergency mitral valve replacement, which was sucessful.", "contents": "Acute mitral valvular obstruction from infective endocarditis: echocardiographic diagnosis and report of the second successfully treated case. Severe mitral stenosis of rapid onset and progression was observed in a patient with infective endocarditis superimposed upon mild rheumatic mitral valvular stenosis. This severe stenosis resulted from large vegetations impinging upon the mitral valve orifice. Preoperative studies indicating mitral stenosis with vegetations and pulmonary edema were followed by emergency mitral valve replacement, which was sucessful.", "PMID": 449378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8984", "title": "Survival following fracture of strut from mitral prosthesis with disc translocation.", "content": "Mechanical complications of prosthetic valves are increasingly rare. The acute, catastrophic nature of the symptoms associated with massive transvalvular regurgitation preclude survival except with immediate operation. In the patient described herein, two weld fractures of a Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley mitral prosthetic strut led to displacement of the valve occluder into the left atrium. The patient survived reoperation, following which the strut was detected radiologically in the left ventricular free wall. A slow, limited recovery resulted from his 5 preoperative hours of deep shock and coma. No complication attributable to the retained ventricular foreign body has been identified.", "contents": "Survival following fracture of strut from mitral prosthesis with disc translocation. Mechanical complications of prosthetic valves are increasingly rare. The acute, catastrophic nature of the symptoms associated with massive transvalvular regurgitation preclude survival except with immediate operation. In the patient described herein, two weld fractures of a Bj\u00f6rk-Shiley mitral prosthetic strut led to displacement of the valve occluder into the left atrium. The patient survived reoperation, following which the strut was detected radiologically in the left ventricular free wall. A slow, limited recovery resulted from his 5 preoperative hours of deep shock and coma. No complication attributable to the retained ventricular foreign body has been identified.", "PMID": 449379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8985", "title": "Intra-aortic balloon pumping: two-year experience.", "content": "Experience with 29 patients who underwent intra-aortic counterpulsation between January, 1975, and December, 1977, was reviewed to determine (1) if the results of this method of treatment were similar at the community hospital and university hospital levels and (2) if earlier institution of counterpulsation made possible by easy availability of equipment resulted in improved survival. The balloon was successfully inserted in 27 patients. Arterial blood pressure was below 80 mm. Hg in all patients prior to institution of either pharmacologic or balloon therapy. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was greater than 12 mm. Hg in the 22 patients in whom it was measured. In 15 patients counterpulsation was instituted less than 12 hours after infarction (Group A), and in the 14 elapsed time was greater than 12 hours (Group B). There was no difference in precounterpulsation hemodynamic measurements between Group A and Group B. Ten patients in Group A were weaned and survived hospitalization. Seven (54 percent) are long-term survivors (6 months to 2 years). Four are in New York Heart Association Class I, two are in Class II, and one is in Class III. Ten patients in Group B were weaned, seven survived hospitalization, and five are long-term survivors (35 percent). Two are in N.Y.H.A. Class I, two are in Class II, and one is in Class III. These results indicate that counterpulsation is possible at the local hospital level and that early institution of the intra-aortic balloon pumping may improve long-term results.", "contents": "Intra-aortic balloon pumping: two-year experience. Experience with 29 patients who underwent intra-aortic counterpulsation between January, 1975, and December, 1977, was reviewed to determine (1) if the results of this method of treatment were similar at the community hospital and university hospital levels and (2) if earlier institution of counterpulsation made possible by easy availability of equipment resulted in improved survival. The balloon was successfully inserted in 27 patients. Arterial blood pressure was below 80 mm. Hg in all patients prior to institution of either pharmacologic or balloon therapy. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was greater than 12 mm. Hg in the 22 patients in whom it was measured. In 15 patients counterpulsation was instituted less than 12 hours after infarction (Group A), and in the 14 elapsed time was greater than 12 hours (Group B). There was no difference in precounterpulsation hemodynamic measurements between Group A and Group B. Ten patients in Group A were weaned and survived hospitalization. Seven (54 percent) are long-term survivors (6 months to 2 years). Four are in New York Heart Association Class I, two are in Class II, and one is in Class III. Ten patients in Group B were weaned, seven survived hospitalization, and five are long-term survivors (35 percent). Two are in N.Y.H.A. Class I, two are in Class II, and one is in Class III. These results indicate that counterpulsation is possible at the local hospital level and that early institution of the intra-aortic balloon pumping may improve long-term results.", "PMID": 449380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8986", "title": "Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation for cardiac support during noncardiac operations.", "content": "Major noncardiac surgery is a serious hazard to patients with advanced coronary disease. Perioperative infarction is common, and preliminary coronary bypass is often unwarranted. We suggest that the use of the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for perioperative support of such patients makes perioperative infarction unlikely and permits otherwise hazardous operations. Three patients with advanced coronary disease (unstable angina in two) had major thoracotomies for lung masses without cardiac complications. This management plan has wider implications for other noncardiac surgical problems in such patients, particularly for mandatory operations wuch as relieving intestinal obstructions.", "contents": "Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation for cardiac support during noncardiac operations. Major noncardiac surgery is a serious hazard to patients with advanced coronary disease. Perioperative infarction is common, and preliminary coronary bypass is often unwarranted. We suggest that the use of the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for perioperative support of such patients makes perioperative infarction unlikely and permits otherwise hazardous operations. Three patients with advanced coronary disease (unstable angina in two) had major thoracotomies for lung masses without cardiac complications. This management plan has wider implications for other noncardiac surgical problems in such patients, particularly for mandatory operations wuch as relieving intestinal obstructions.", "PMID": 449381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8987", "title": "Six-month survival of a calf with an artificial heart.", "content": "A pneumatically powered artificial heart, constructed primarily from a polyurethane, was implanted in the chest of a calf and supported the calf for more than 6 months. The heart, which was designed to fit in the chest of a 90 kilogram calf, was able to suppor the animal when it weighed 180 kilograms. During the first 105 days the calf remained strong and healthy. The animal grew progressively weaker after day 106, and by day 160 right heart failure became apparent. The principal cause of the right heart failure was an obstructive growth between the right atrium and the right ventricle. An attempt to correct the problem on day 184 with an artificial heart resulted in the animal's death.", "contents": "Six-month survival of a calf with an artificial heart. A pneumatically powered artificial heart, constructed primarily from a polyurethane, was implanted in the chest of a calf and supported the calf for more than 6 months. The heart, which was designed to fit in the chest of a 90 kilogram calf, was able to suppor the animal when it weighed 180 kilograms. During the first 105 days the calf remained strong and healthy. The animal grew progressively weaker after day 106, and by day 160 right heart failure became apparent. The principal cause of the right heart failure was an obstructive growth between the right atrium and the right ventricle. An attempt to correct the problem on day 184 with an artificial heart resulted in the animal's death.", "PMID": 449382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8988", "title": "The spectrum of anomalies of aortopulmonary septation.", "content": "Embryologically related defects resulting from abnormal septation of the aortopulmonary trunk in 13 patients were reviewed and grouped according to a new classification system. Seven patients (54 percent) had typical aortopulmonary septal defects or windows (Type I), three (23 percent) had a more cephalad defect between the ascending aorta and the origin of the right pulmonary artery (Type II), and three (23 percent) had anomalous origin of the right pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta (Type III). Type I defects are caused by incomplete septation of the aortopulmonary trunk; Type II and III defects result from unequal partitioning of the aortopulmonary trunk by the conotruncal ridges. Three of six patients survived correction of Type I defects; both patients having correlation of Type II defects and all three patients with Type III defects survived and remain well 2 to 216 months (mean 61 months) postoperatively. The recommended technique for Type I and II defects is transaortic closure of the defect by prosthetic patch with the aid of cardiopulmonary bypass, supplemented by profound hypothermia (20 degrees C.), and circulatory arrest for improved exposure in selected cases. For Type III defects, division of the anomalous connection plus direct implantation of the right pulmonary artery into the main pulmonary artery is the preferred approach.", "contents": "The spectrum of anomalies of aortopulmonary septation. Embryologically related defects resulting from abnormal septation of the aortopulmonary trunk in 13 patients were reviewed and grouped according to a new classification system. Seven patients (54 percent) had typical aortopulmonary septal defects or windows (Type I), three (23 percent) had a more cephalad defect between the ascending aorta and the origin of the right pulmonary artery (Type II), and three (23 percent) had anomalous origin of the right pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta (Type III). Type I defects are caused by incomplete septation of the aortopulmonary trunk; Type II and III defects result from unequal partitioning of the aortopulmonary trunk by the conotruncal ridges. Three of six patients survived correction of Type I defects; both patients having correlation of Type II defects and all three patients with Type III defects survived and remain well 2 to 216 months (mean 61 months) postoperatively. The recommended technique for Type I and II defects is transaortic closure of the defect by prosthetic patch with the aid of cardiopulmonary bypass, supplemented by profound hypothermia (20 degrees C.), and circulatory arrest for improved exposure in selected cases. For Type III defects, division of the anomalous connection plus direct implantation of the right pulmonary artery into the main pulmonary artery is the preferred approach.", "PMID": 449383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8989", "title": "Esophageal perforation during attempted endotracheal intubation.", "content": "Perforation of the cervical esophagus in the course of attempted intubation of the trachea is a very rare accident, or at least rarely reported. Over the past 11 years, 12 patients ranging in age from 44 to 72 years were treated in our unit. If suspected, esophageal perforation is easy to diagnose when intubation has been difficult or when the patient complains of dysphagia and neck pain. Subcutaneous cervical emphysema appears early. All the patients who were operated upon early made an uneventful and prompt recovery. In those subjected to delayed operation (more than 12 hours) or nonoperative treatment, the mortality rate was 56 percent and recovery was achieved only after long and difficult treatment.", "contents": "Esophageal perforation during attempted endotracheal intubation. Perforation of the cervical esophagus in the course of attempted intubation of the trachea is a very rare accident, or at least rarely reported. Over the past 11 years, 12 patients ranging in age from 44 to 72 years were treated in our unit. If suspected, esophageal perforation is easy to diagnose when intubation has been difficult or when the patient complains of dysphagia and neck pain. Subcutaneous cervical emphysema appears early. All the patients who were operated upon early made an uneventful and prompt recovery. In those subjected to delayed operation (more than 12 hours) or nonoperative treatment, the mortality rate was 56 percent and recovery was achieved only after long and difficult treatment.", "PMID": 449386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8990", "title": "Surgical treatment of aneurysms of the inferior left ventricular wall.", "content": "Experience with surgical treatment of 10 patients with aneurysms of the inferior wall of the left ventricle is presented. Six of the 10 aneurysms were false (pseudoaneurysms), and four were classified as true aneurysms. All except one resulted from myocardial infarction. Combined procedures, performed at the time of aneurysm resection, included mitral valve replacement (five patients), coronary artery bypass grafting (four patients), and closure of an interventricular septal defect (one patient). Three of four patients with true inferior aneurysms had mitral valve dysfunction, whereas only two of six patients with false aneurysms required mitral valve replacement (one because of infective endocarditis). Nine of the 10 patients survived operation, and all are functionally improved except one. On the basis of this and previously reported experience, it is concluded that a substantial proportion of inferior left ventricular aneurysms exhibit the pathological features of false aneurysms. Because of the associated propensity toward rupture of such lesions, an aggressive surgical approach is recommended.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of aneurysms of the inferior left ventricular wall. Experience with surgical treatment of 10 patients with aneurysms of the inferior wall of the left ventricle is presented. Six of the 10 aneurysms were false (pseudoaneurysms), and four were classified as true aneurysms. All except one resulted from myocardial infarction. Combined procedures, performed at the time of aneurysm resection, included mitral valve replacement (five patients), coronary artery bypass grafting (four patients), and closure of an interventricular septal defect (one patient). Three of four patients with true inferior aneurysms had mitral valve dysfunction, whereas only two of six patients with false aneurysms required mitral valve replacement (one because of infective endocarditis). Nine of the 10 patients survived operation, and all are functionally improved except one. On the basis of this and previously reported experience, it is concluded that a substantial proportion of inferior left ventricular aneurysms exhibit the pathological features of false aneurysms. Because of the associated propensity toward rupture of such lesions, an aggressive surgical approach is recommended.", "PMID": 449388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8991", "title": "New surgical method for repair of anomalous left coronary artery from pulmonary artery.", "content": "A new surgical method for repair of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk is described. The principle of the proposed technique is to transmit the oxygenated blood to the anomalous left coronary artery through surgically created aortopulmonary window and the internal tunnel created in the main pulmonary trunk. A 2-year-old boy in whom this anomaly was associated with mitral regurgitation caused by papillary muscle dysfunction was successfully treated by this new surgical method, and the deformed mitral valve was concomitantly replaced by a Hancock porcine xenograft.", "contents": "New surgical method for repair of anomalous left coronary artery from pulmonary artery. A new surgical method for repair of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk is described. The principle of the proposed technique is to transmit the oxygenated blood to the anomalous left coronary artery through surgically created aortopulmonary window and the internal tunnel created in the main pulmonary trunk. A 2-year-old boy in whom this anomaly was associated with mitral regurgitation caused by papillary muscle dysfunction was successfully treated by this new surgical method, and the deformed mitral valve was concomitantly replaced by a Hancock porcine xenograft.", "PMID": 449387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8992", "title": "Aneurysm of left ventricle secondary to bacterial endocarditis.", "content": "Three cases are described of aneurysms of the area of fibrous continuity between the aortic and mitral valves, each associated with infective endocarditis of the aortic valve. In two cases surgical treatment was successful, one of these having been diagnosed by angiography prior to operation. The other case was discovered only at autopsy, but the histologic findings showed the lesion to be a true aneurysm. Although some cases have been successfully managed by operation, most have proved fata. These cases and the previous successes illustrate the potential value of urgent operation.", "contents": "Aneurysm of left ventricle secondary to bacterial endocarditis. Three cases are described of aneurysms of the area of fibrous continuity between the aortic and mitral valves, each associated with infective endocarditis of the aortic valve. In two cases surgical treatment was successful, one of these having been diagnosed by angiography prior to operation. The other case was discovered only at autopsy, but the histologic findings showed the lesion to be a true aneurysm. Although some cases have been successfully managed by operation, most have proved fata. These cases and the previous successes illustrate the potential value of urgent operation.", "PMID": 449389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8993", "title": "Predictive value of preoperative in vitro and in vivo studies for correct individual heparinization in cardiac surgery.", "content": "Heparin administration for operations with extracorporeal circulation (ECC) usually is performed following prefixed, standardized protocols. These regimens secure an adequate level of anticoagulation, but they often involve prolonged periods of overheparinization associated with an undue risk of hemorrhage. The predictive value of preoperative studies in the anticoagulant effect of heparin was investigated in 10 patients. The study was performed both in vitro and in vivo using the Xa inhibitor assay as an index of the anticoagulation induced by heparin. Adding variable amounts of heparin in vitro to patient's plasma resulted in straight (at least up to 7 U. per milliliter) and parallel, but not coincident, dose/response curves, so confirming a different individual sensitivity to heparin. Disappearance curves of the anticoagulant effect in plasma following intravenous administration of a single standard dose of heparin in the same patients showed an even greater patient-to-patient variability, with \"half-life\" times ranging from 30 to 150 minutes. No relationship was found between the parameters (in vitro sensitivity to heparin and clearance rate from plasma in vivo). Moreover, neither of them could be correlated with the response to heparin, subsequently observed during ECC in the same patients. Preoperative investigations with the methods presently available are not adequate to choose individual heparin administration regimens for cardiac operations.", "contents": "Predictive value of preoperative in vitro and in vivo studies for correct individual heparinization in cardiac surgery. Heparin administration for operations with extracorporeal circulation (ECC) usually is performed following prefixed, standardized protocols. These regimens secure an adequate level of anticoagulation, but they often involve prolonged periods of overheparinization associated with an undue risk of hemorrhage. The predictive value of preoperative studies in the anticoagulant effect of heparin was investigated in 10 patients. The study was performed both in vitro and in vivo using the Xa inhibitor assay as an index of the anticoagulation induced by heparin. Adding variable amounts of heparin in vitro to patient's plasma resulted in straight (at least up to 7 U. per milliliter) and parallel, but not coincident, dose/response curves, so confirming a different individual sensitivity to heparin. Disappearance curves of the anticoagulant effect in plasma following intravenous administration of a single standard dose of heparin in the same patients showed an even greater patient-to-patient variability, with \"half-life\" times ranging from 30 to 150 minutes. No relationship was found between the parameters (in vitro sensitivity to heparin and clearance rate from plasma in vivo). Moreover, neither of them could be correlated with the response to heparin, subsequently observed during ECC in the same patients. Preoperative investigations with the methods presently available are not adequate to choose individual heparin administration regimens for cardiac operations.", "PMID": 449390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8994", "title": "Heparin administration during extracorporeal circulation: heparin rebound and postoperative bleeding.", "content": "The individual variations in heparin dose response and heparin activity decay have indicated limitations of the protocols based on body surface area and weight of the patients. In the present study the heparin levels and simpler clotting tests were monitored in a consecutive series of 71 patients undergoing standard cardiac operations. The clotting tests used were the Celite activated clotting time (Celite ACT) and the whole blood activated recalcification time (BART). Forty-four patients received a loading dose of heparin, 3 mg. per kilogram, a maintenance dose of heparin, 1.5 mg. per kilogram per hour, and 6 mg. of protamine sulfate per kilogram at the termination of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) (Protocol I). Twenty-seven patients received a similar initial dose, but the maintenance dose of heparin and the dosage of protamine sulfate were administered according to the measured heparin levels (Protocol II). A significant difference was seen in the measured heparin levels (p less than 0.01, Celite ACT (p less than 0.01), and BART (p less than 0.01) in patients on Protocols I and II. Ten of the 24 patients on Protocol I and none on Protocol II showed heparin rebound phenomenon, and blood loss in patients on Protocol I was significantly greater than that in patients on Protocol II. The study clearly demonstrates that our protocol of heparin administration and control with simpler tests ensures safe hypocoagulation during ECC and efficient reversal at the end, with minimal postoperative blood loss.", "contents": "Heparin administration during extracorporeal circulation: heparin rebound and postoperative bleeding. The individual variations in heparin dose response and heparin activity decay have indicated limitations of the protocols based on body surface area and weight of the patients. In the present study the heparin levels and simpler clotting tests were monitored in a consecutive series of 71 patients undergoing standard cardiac operations. The clotting tests used were the Celite activated clotting time (Celite ACT) and the whole blood activated recalcification time (BART). Forty-four patients received a loading dose of heparin, 3 mg. per kilogram, a maintenance dose of heparin, 1.5 mg. per kilogram per hour, and 6 mg. of protamine sulfate per kilogram at the termination of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) (Protocol I). Twenty-seven patients received a similar initial dose, but the maintenance dose of heparin and the dosage of protamine sulfate were administered according to the measured heparin levels (Protocol II). A significant difference was seen in the measured heparin levels (p less than 0.01, Celite ACT (p less than 0.01), and BART (p less than 0.01) in patients on Protocols I and II. Ten of the 24 patients on Protocol I and none on Protocol II showed heparin rebound phenomenon, and blood loss in patients on Protocol I was significantly greater than that in patients on Protocol II. The study clearly demonstrates that our protocol of heparin administration and control with simpler tests ensures safe hypocoagulation during ECC and efficient reversal at the end, with minimal postoperative blood loss.", "PMID": 449391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8995", "title": "Observations on hepatic superficial lymph flow.", "content": "Hepatic superficial lymph flow was studied by injecting patent blue V solution into the liver under peritoneoscopy. This procedure enabled detailed observations of the direction of hepatic lymph flow in superificial lymphatic vessels and migration of lymph from these lymphatic vessels to lymphatic vessels of the gallbladder. Increase in this flow was observed in patients with increased liver fibrosis and lobular distortion.", "contents": "Observations on hepatic superficial lymph flow. Hepatic superficial lymph flow was studied by injecting patent blue V solution into the liver under peritoneoscopy. This procedure enabled detailed observations of the direction of hepatic lymph flow in superificial lymphatic vessels and migration of lymph from these lymphatic vessels to lymphatic vessels of the gallbladder. Increase in this flow was observed in patients with increased liver fibrosis and lobular distortion.", "PMID": 449394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8996", "title": "Morphological studies on liver lymphatics.", "content": "Form, distribution and structure of liver lymphatics were studied in pig, calf, kid, dog, rabbit and human using both light and electron microscopes. The relation of the lymphatics to both blood vessel and connective tissue was the same throughout the material. The lymphatic capillaries were supported by a lattice of the coarse bundles, composed of collagenous fibers. The endothelial cells of the lymphatic capillaries lying in the meshes of the lattice showed a marked change in the volume and a phagocytotic activity. The results were discussed in relation to the function.", "contents": "Morphological studies on liver lymphatics. Form, distribution and structure of liver lymphatics were studied in pig, calf, kid, dog, rabbit and human using both light and electron microscopes. The relation of the lymphatics to both blood vessel and connective tissue was the same throughout the material. The lymphatic capillaries were supported by a lattice of the coarse bundles, composed of collagenous fibers. The endothelial cells of the lymphatic capillaries lying in the meshes of the lattice showed a marked change in the volume and a phagocytotic activity. The results were discussed in relation to the function.", "PMID": 449395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8997", "title": "Structure of lymphatics in the aorta and the periaortic tissues, and vascular lesions caused by disturbance of the lymphatics.", "content": "In the cases of obstruction of the lymphatics alone, vascular lesions were slighter compared with those of obstruction of the arterial vasa vasorum (5). However, in the cases of severe disturbances of flow from the vascular wall with marked increase of the connective tissues, vascular lesions such as wide intimal thickening progressed. So, disturbance of lymphatics in the aorta and the periaortic tissue seemed to give an influence on the microcirculation in the vascular wall and vascular lesions.", "contents": "Structure of lymphatics in the aorta and the periaortic tissues, and vascular lesions caused by disturbance of the lymphatics. In the cases of obstruction of the lymphatics alone, vascular lesions were slighter compared with those of obstruction of the arterial vasa vasorum (5). However, in the cases of severe disturbances of flow from the vascular wall with marked increase of the connective tissues, vascular lesions such as wide intimal thickening progressed. So, disturbance of lymphatics in the aorta and the periaortic tissue seemed to give an influence on the microcirculation in the vascular wall and vascular lesions.", "PMID": 449396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8998", "title": "Lymph flow in human leg.", "content": "A little bit of RISA (0.01--0.02 ML) was injected into a lymphatic at the back of a human foot in supine and/or sitting position, and the radioactivity curves were obtained at the inguinal and/or at the middle of the thigh. Radioactivity curves at the inguinal region showed stepwise rise with the frequency of about 1/min. in subjects without edema and steep rise without staircase in patients with cardiac edema. Radioactivity curves at the middle of the thigh showed many spiky waves with the frequency of about 1/min. in supine subjects without edema, which were increased in frequency, duration and/or height in sitting subjects without edema and also in supine and sitting patients with cardiac edema. Therefore, it may be said that there are rhythmic lymph flows in lower leg of subjects without edema and of patients with cardiac edema not only in supine but also in sitting position, and also that lymphatic contractility plays some role in propelling lymph in human leg.", "contents": "Lymph flow in human leg. A little bit of RISA (0.01--0.02 ML) was injected into a lymphatic at the back of a human foot in supine and/or sitting position, and the radioactivity curves were obtained at the inguinal and/or at the middle of the thigh. Radioactivity curves at the inguinal region showed stepwise rise with the frequency of about 1/min. in subjects without edema and steep rise without staircase in patients with cardiac edema. Radioactivity curves at the middle of the thigh showed many spiky waves with the frequency of about 1/min. in supine subjects without edema, which were increased in frequency, duration and/or height in sitting subjects without edema and also in supine and sitting patients with cardiac edema. Therefore, it may be said that there are rhythmic lymph flows in lower leg of subjects without edema and of patients with cardiac edema not only in supine but also in sitting position, and also that lymphatic contractility plays some role in propelling lymph in human leg.", "PMID": 449397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_8999", "title": "Lymphographic classification of malignant lymphoma.", "content": "In an attempt to raise the diagnostic accuracy of lymphography in malignant lymphoma, especially in early stages, the disease were radiographically classified into 3 groups such as atypical, typical and advanced group mainly based on the lymphographic findings. The findings showed characteristic features corresponding to the stages of the disease. Atypical group showed the following findings: small filling defects, increased number of lymph node and visualization of the marginal sinus. The findings were regarded as those of early stages of malignant lymphoma.", "contents": "Lymphographic classification of malignant lymphoma. In an attempt to raise the diagnostic accuracy of lymphography in malignant lymphoma, especially in early stages, the disease were radiographically classified into 3 groups such as atypical, typical and advanced group mainly based on the lymphographic findings. The findings showed characteristic features corresponding to the stages of the disease. Atypical group showed the following findings: small filling defects, increased number of lymph node and visualization of the marginal sinus. The findings were regarded as those of early stages of malignant lymphoma.", "PMID": 449398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9000", "title": "Lymphographic studies on protein-losing enteropathy.", "content": "Lymphographic studies were made on diseases of protein-losing in 19 cases, which include 9 cases of diseases of the digestive canal, 2 cases of constrictive pericarditis, and 8 cases of protein-losing enteropathy. Lymphographically in the diseases of the digestive canal no abnormal findings were detected, but in the constrictive pericarditis remarkable dilation and kinking of the thoracic duct with relatively poor congestion of the lumbar lymphatic vessels were observed. In the intestinal lymphangiectasia dysplasia of the lymphatics, passage disturbance of the thoracic duct with the congestive lumbar lymphatics, reflux to abdominal organs, oozing of contrast medium into the intestinal lumen were disclosed. Also experimentally lymphographic studies in thoracic duct-ligated dogs revealed the reflux to the mesenterial lymphatic system causing protein-losing into the intestine.", "contents": "Lymphographic studies on protein-losing enteropathy. Lymphographic studies were made on diseases of protein-losing in 19 cases, which include 9 cases of diseases of the digestive canal, 2 cases of constrictive pericarditis, and 8 cases of protein-losing enteropathy. Lymphographically in the diseases of the digestive canal no abnormal findings were detected, but in the constrictive pericarditis remarkable dilation and kinking of the thoracic duct with relatively poor congestion of the lumbar lymphatic vessels were observed. In the intestinal lymphangiectasia dysplasia of the lymphatics, passage disturbance of the thoracic duct with the congestive lumbar lymphatics, reflux to abdominal organs, oozing of contrast medium into the intestinal lumen were disclosed. Also experimentally lymphographic studies in thoracic duct-ligated dogs revealed the reflux to the mesenterial lymphatic system causing protein-losing into the intestine.", "PMID": 449399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9001", "title": "Lymphography of the edematous extremities.", "content": "The mechanism of secondary lymphedema of the extremities is not always simple to understand. The unsolved mechanism of lymphedema should be further studied from exploring relationship between lymphatic and venous systems each of which has superficial and deep systems respectively.", "contents": "Lymphography of the edematous extremities. The mechanism of secondary lymphedema of the extremities is not always simple to understand. The unsolved mechanism of lymphedema should be further studied from exploring relationship between lymphatic and venous systems each of which has superficial and deep systems respectively.", "PMID": 449400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9002", "title": "Electrical activity and ultrastructure of bovine mesenteric lymphatics.", "content": "Membrane action potentials of bovine mesenteric lymphatics were recored simultaneously with isometric contractions by use of the sucrose gap method. The action potentials always had one-to-one correspondence to the contraction waves. From the effects of tetrodotoxin, manganese, cal-calcium-free environment, and barium chloride on the spontaneous contractions, it was suggested that calcium current may probably play a major role in producing spike discharge in the smooth muscles. Blood capillaries were found within the smooth muscle layers as well as in the adventitia.", "contents": "Electrical activity and ultrastructure of bovine mesenteric lymphatics. Membrane action potentials of bovine mesenteric lymphatics were recored simultaneously with isometric contractions by use of the sucrose gap method. The action potentials always had one-to-one correspondence to the contraction waves. From the effects of tetrodotoxin, manganese, cal-calcium-free environment, and barium chloride on the spontaneous contractions, it was suggested that calcium current may probably play a major role in producing spike discharge in the smooth muscles. Blood capillaries were found within the smooth muscle layers as well as in the adventitia.", "PMID": 449401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9003", "title": "Admittance plethysmographic evaluation of undulatory massage for the edematous limb.", "content": "A new apparatus, called Hadomer has been developed for the treatment of peripheral lymphedema and venous disorder. It has cuffs with 5 rooms, through which the air pressure moves from periphery to proximal point, just like surging waves. The peripheral stagnant lymph and venous blood are displaced toward the heart by this pneumatic massage. Hadomer has been applied to more than 400 patients with the edematous limbs, with satisfactory results, such as decrease of swelling, pain and induration. These clinical results have been also confirmed by electrical admittance plethysmography which is useful to measure noninvasively the edematous volume and the blood flow. The admittance of the edematous limbs is high and after massaging with Hadomer it approaches normal range. The blood flow in the diseased limbs is less than the healthy one and it is observed better after pneumatically massaging.", "contents": "Admittance plethysmographic evaluation of undulatory massage for the edematous limb. A new apparatus, called Hadomer has been developed for the treatment of peripheral lymphedema and venous disorder. It has cuffs with 5 rooms, through which the air pressure moves from periphery to proximal point, just like surging waves. The peripheral stagnant lymph and venous blood are displaced toward the heart by this pneumatic massage. Hadomer has been applied to more than 400 patients with the edematous limbs, with satisfactory results, such as decrease of swelling, pain and induration. These clinical results have been also confirmed by electrical admittance plethysmography which is useful to measure noninvasively the edematous volume and the blood flow. The admittance of the edematous limbs is high and after massaging with Hadomer it approaches normal range. The blood flow in the diseased limbs is less than the healthy one and it is observed better after pneumatically massaging.", "PMID": 449402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9004", "title": "The circulatory effect of drug on lymphedema.", "content": "Various kinds of drugs are used to improve the lymphedema of the extemities. In this report, a dye transducer was applied on the site of edema of the leg, foot, or hand and indocyanine green was injected intravenously. The change of circulating dye was recorded by means of dye densitometer. The edematous tissue showed higher dye concentration with lapse of time, while drugs, i.e., Esberiven, urokinase, kallikrein, etc., accelerated the dye dilution. These drugs have the effect to correct the stagnant microcirculation to a more steady flow in the region of edema.", "contents": "The circulatory effect of drug on lymphedema. Various kinds of drugs are used to improve the lymphedema of the extemities. In this report, a dye transducer was applied on the site of edema of the leg, foot, or hand and indocyanine green was injected intravenously. The change of circulating dye was recorded by means of dye densitometer. The edematous tissue showed higher dye concentration with lapse of time, while drugs, i.e., Esberiven, urokinase, kallikrein, etc., accelerated the dye dilution. These drugs have the effect to correct the stagnant microcirculation to a more steady flow in the region of edema.", "PMID": 449403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9005", "title": "Surgical treatment of chronic lymphedema of the extremities.", "content": "Results of various surgical treatment for chronic lymphedema of the extremities were described. None of the procedures was ideal, unfortunately. Advance in this field is expected.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of chronic lymphedema of the extremities. Results of various surgical treatment for chronic lymphedema of the extremities were described. None of the procedures was ideal, unfortunately. Advance in this field is expected.", "PMID": 449404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9006", "title": "The surgical treatment of chronic lymphedema of the extremity.", "content": "Twenty-five patients with lymphedema of the extremity have been evaluated. Thirteen were treated surgically and 12 conservatively. The Thompson buried dermis flap operation is the most effective procedure and may be combined with omentaplasty.", "contents": "The surgical treatment of chronic lymphedema of the extremity. Twenty-five patients with lymphedema of the extremity have been evaluated. Thirteen were treated surgically and 12 conservatively. The Thompson buried dermis flap operation is the most effective procedure and may be combined with omentaplasty.", "PMID": 449405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9007", "title": "The migration of lymphocytes across the vascular endothelium in lymph nodes: a scanning electron microscopic study.", "content": "Endothelial cells of Postcapillary Venules (PCV) and the passage of lymphocytes through the wall of PCV were investigated with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) in mesenteric lymph nodes of rats. Individual endothelial cells of PCV in the lymph node did not have flat surface or were not typically cubic, but swelled at the central part assuming a foot ball-like shape. Circulating lymphocytes are considered to migrate into lymphatic tissues through the wall of PCV from the blood stream. Two hypotheses, inter-endothelial cell passage and intra-endothelial cell passage, have been proposed. The three-dimensional studies on lymphocytes passing the wall with SEM confirmed that migrating lymphocytes pushes their way through the intercellular space with pressing the adjoining endothelial cells from beginning to end, supporting the former hypothesis. Invasion of lymphocytes into endothelial cells were not observed.", "contents": "The migration of lymphocytes across the vascular endothelium in lymph nodes: a scanning electron microscopic study. Endothelial cells of Postcapillary Venules (PCV) and the passage of lymphocytes through the wall of PCV were investigated with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) in mesenteric lymph nodes of rats. Individual endothelial cells of PCV in the lymph node did not have flat surface or were not typically cubic, but swelled at the central part assuming a foot ball-like shape. Circulating lymphocytes are considered to migrate into lymphatic tissues through the wall of PCV from the blood stream. Two hypotheses, inter-endothelial cell passage and intra-endothelial cell passage, have been proposed. The three-dimensional studies on lymphocytes passing the wall with SEM confirmed that migrating lymphocytes pushes their way through the intercellular space with pressing the adjoining endothelial cells from beginning to end, supporting the former hypothesis. Invasion of lymphocytes into endothelial cells were not observed.", "PMID": 449406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9008", "title": "Synovial effusions containing cholesterol crystals report of 12 patients and review.", "content": "Cholesterol crystals were identified in 16 synovial fluids from 12 patients who were seen over the 14-year period 1964 through 1977. Ten of the 12 patients had rheumatoid arthritis of a median duration of 12 years. One patient had ankylosing spondylitis and another had iliopectineal bursitis without other joint disease. The fluids were usually turbid, white, or yellow in color and of thick consistency. When the synovial fluid concentration of cholesterol was determined, it was higher than the serum level. The swollen joints and bursae did not respond favorably to simple aspiration or corticosteroid injections but did to surgical synovectomy. No relationship was found between synovial fluid accumulation of cholesterol crystal and previous intra-articular corticosteroid therapy, serum lipoprotein abnormalities, intra-articular hemorrhage, or generalized arteriosclerosis. The results suggest that local factors are most important in the development of synovial fluid cholesterol crystals, but the exact mechanisms are unknown. The presence of cholesterol crystals in synovial fluid should suggest a severe persistent synovitis, knowledge of which may be helpful in diagnosis and planning therapy.", "contents": "Synovial effusions containing cholesterol crystals report of 12 patients and review. Cholesterol crystals were identified in 16 synovial fluids from 12 patients who were seen over the 14-year period 1964 through 1977. Ten of the 12 patients had rheumatoid arthritis of a median duration of 12 years. One patient had ankylosing spondylitis and another had iliopectineal bursitis without other joint disease. The fluids were usually turbid, white, or yellow in color and of thick consistency. When the synovial fluid concentration of cholesterol was determined, it was higher than the serum level. The swollen joints and bursae did not respond favorably to simple aspiration or corticosteroid injections but did to surgical synovectomy. No relationship was found between synovial fluid accumulation of cholesterol crystal and previous intra-articular corticosteroid therapy, serum lipoprotein abnormalities, intra-articular hemorrhage, or generalized arteriosclerosis. The results suggest that local factors are most important in the development of synovial fluid cholesterol crystals, but the exact mechanisms are unknown. The presence of cholesterol crystals in synovial fluid should suggest a severe persistent synovitis, knowledge of which may be helpful in diagnosis and planning therapy.", "PMID": 449407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9009", "title": "Visualization of ventricular septal rupture utilizing wide-angle two-dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "Two-dimensional sector echocardiography allowed direct visualization of postinfarction ventricular septal rupture. Not only did this noninvasive technique allow visualization of the septal defect, but the distribution of the myocardial dysfunction was also readily determined. In the evaluation of seriously ill patient with complicated myocardial infarction, two-dimensional echocardiography might reliably be substituted for conventional left ventricular angiography.", "contents": "Visualization of ventricular septal rupture utilizing wide-angle two-dimensional echocardiography. Two-dimensional sector echocardiography allowed direct visualization of postinfarction ventricular septal rupture. Not only did this noninvasive technique allow visualization of the septal defect, but the distribution of the myocardial dysfunction was also readily determined. In the evaluation of seriously ill patient with complicated myocardial infarction, two-dimensional echocardiography might reliably be substituted for conventional left ventricular angiography.", "PMID": 449408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9010", "title": "Series on pharmacology in practice. 1. Drugs that alter mood. II. Lithium.", "content": "In the last two decades, there has been rapid progress in the pharmacologic treatment of affective disorders. In Part I of this review, drugs mainly used for depression (tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors) were discussed. Here, lithium carbonate, the most effective drug for manic-depressive illness (bipolar depression) is the focus. Its indications, mode of action, pharmacokinetics, dosage, and side effects are discussed. A section on drug interactions with lithium deals with the combination effect of lithium used with antidepressant and other psychotropic agents.", "contents": "Series on pharmacology in practice. 1. Drugs that alter mood. II. Lithium. In the last two decades, there has been rapid progress in the pharmacologic treatment of affective disorders. In Part I of this review, drugs mainly used for depression (tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors) were discussed. Here, lithium carbonate, the most effective drug for manic-depressive illness (bipolar depression) is the focus. Its indications, mode of action, pharmacokinetics, dosage, and side effects are discussed. A section on drug interactions with lithium deals with the combination effect of lithium used with antidepressant and other psychotropic agents.", "PMID": 449409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9011", "title": "The secretory process in the pancreatic exocrine cell.", "content": "Recent findings that contribute to an understanding of the secretory process in the pancreatic exocrine cell are reviewed. These include (1) the separation, identification, and characterization of secreted proteins by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, (2) the intracellular route and timetable of movement of secretory proteins from one intracellular compartment to another, (3) the mechanism by which presecretory proteins are thought to be transported across the lipid bilayer of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (the transport peptide hypothesis), and (4) the importance of accessory peptide domains that determine the ultimate location and site-specific function of exportable proteins.", "contents": "The secretory process in the pancreatic exocrine cell. Recent findings that contribute to an understanding of the secretory process in the pancreatic exocrine cell are reviewed. These include (1) the separation, identification, and characterization of secreted proteins by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, (2) the intracellular route and timetable of movement of secretory proteins from one intracellular compartment to another, (3) the mechanism by which presecretory proteins are thought to be transported across the lipid bilayer of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (the transport peptide hypothesis), and (4) the importance of accessory peptide domains that determine the ultimate location and site-specific function of exportable proteins.", "PMID": 449414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9012", "title": "Clinical use of amylase clearance and isoamylase measurements.", "content": "Isoamylase determinations and measurements of the ratio of the renal clearance of amylase relative to creatinine (CAm/CCr) were employed in an attempt to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the standard amylase measurement. An elevated CAm/CCr reflects defective proximal tubular reabsorption of amylase which occurs in virtually all patients with clear-cut acute pancreatitis. However, other conditions that apparently are associated with acute defective tubular function, such as burns and diabetic acidosis, may cause an elevated ratio. Thus, elevations of CAm/CCr cannot be considered to be specific for acute pancreatitis. Pancreatic isoamylase represents, on the average, about 33% of the normal serum amylase activity, whereas about 66% is salivary-type isoamylase. Isoamylase measurements are useful in determining whether an elevated value for serum amylase activity is of pancreatic origin. However, this measurement is not useful for determining whether patients with normal serum amylase activity have pancreatitis.", "contents": "Clinical use of amylase clearance and isoamylase measurements. Isoamylase determinations and measurements of the ratio of the renal clearance of amylase relative to creatinine (CAm/CCr) were employed in an attempt to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the standard amylase measurement. An elevated CAm/CCr reflects defective proximal tubular reabsorption of amylase which occurs in virtually all patients with clear-cut acute pancreatitis. However, other conditions that apparently are associated with acute defective tubular function, such as burns and diabetic acidosis, may cause an elevated ratio. Thus, elevations of CAm/CCr cannot be considered to be specific for acute pancreatitis. Pancreatic isoamylase represents, on the average, about 33% of the normal serum amylase activity, whereas about 66% is salivary-type isoamylase. Isoamylase measurements are useful in determining whether an elevated value for serum amylase activity is of pancreatic origin. However, this measurement is not useful for determining whether patients with normal serum amylase activity have pancreatitis.", "PMID": 449415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9013", "title": "Surgical treatment of pancreatitis: review of a series.", "content": "In this review of the surgical experience with pancreatitis, 55 patients had acute relapsing pancreatitis associated with gallstones and 47 had chronic pancreatitis of alcoholic, idiopathic, or familial causation. The severity of pancreatitis associated with gallstones could not be correlated with results of preoperative biochemical tests; only one-third of patients were found to have stones within the biliary ductal system; and postoperative mortality (5%) could not be correlated with the severity of pancreatic inflammation or the timing of surgical intervention. Postoperative observations have revealed that all but four of the patients have remained asymptomatic. With regard to the patients with alcoholic, idiopathic, or familial disease who had significant pancreatic ductal dilatation or obstruction, ductal drainage procedures with or without resection benefited 80%. In the absence of ductal dilatation or obstruction, major resective surgery benefited 50% of patients. Continuing alcohol abuse limited the effectiveness of any operative procedure, and diabetes occurred more often after major resective procedures.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of pancreatitis: review of a series. In this review of the surgical experience with pancreatitis, 55 patients had acute relapsing pancreatitis associated with gallstones and 47 had chronic pancreatitis of alcoholic, idiopathic, or familial causation. The severity of pancreatitis associated with gallstones could not be correlated with results of preoperative biochemical tests; only one-third of patients were found to have stones within the biliary ductal system; and postoperative mortality (5%) could not be correlated with the severity of pancreatic inflammation or the timing of surgical intervention. Postoperative observations have revealed that all but four of the patients have remained asymptomatic. With regard to the patients with alcoholic, idiopathic, or familial disease who had significant pancreatic ductal dilatation or obstruction, ductal drainage procedures with or without resection benefited 80%. In the absence of ductal dilatation or obstruction, major resective surgery benefited 50% of patients. Continuing alcohol abuse limited the effectiveness of any operative procedure, and diabetes occurred more often after major resective procedures.", "PMID": 449416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9014", "title": "Pancreatic cancer: an overview of epidemiology, clinical presentation, and diagnosis.", "content": "Pancreatic cancer remains a challenge to researchers and investigators alike. Although the incidence of this neoplasm is increasing alarmingly, epidemiologic studies have provided few clues to genetic, behavioral, or environmental factors involved in its etiopathogenesis. Pancreatic cancer is highly lethal; diagnosis is rarely achieved while the tumor is at a localized, surgically resectable stage. It is possible that the early stages of pancreatic cancer are truly asymptomatic, and no effective screening method is yet available. In contrast, the presumptive diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer can nowadays be achieved with high probability in most patients by newly developed techniques. Comparative studies of currently available diagnostic tests have provided guidance in the selection of the best tests and the optimal sequence of investigation. Major research efforts are now being directed toward obtaining, without laparotomy, both evidence of nonresectability (staging) and histologic proof of neoplasia to avoid expensive, debilitating exploration in patients in whom cure or meaningful palliation cannot realistically be expected.", "contents": "Pancreatic cancer: an overview of epidemiology, clinical presentation, and diagnosis. Pancreatic cancer remains a challenge to researchers and investigators alike. Although the incidence of this neoplasm is increasing alarmingly, epidemiologic studies have provided few clues to genetic, behavioral, or environmental factors involved in its etiopathogenesis. Pancreatic cancer is highly lethal; diagnosis is rarely achieved while the tumor is at a localized, surgically resectable stage. It is possible that the early stages of pancreatic cancer are truly asymptomatic, and no effective screening method is yet available. In contrast, the presumptive diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer can nowadays be achieved with high probability in most patients by newly developed techniques. Comparative studies of currently available diagnostic tests have provided guidance in the selection of the best tests and the optimal sequence of investigation. Major research efforts are now being directed toward obtaining, without laparotomy, both evidence of nonresectability (staging) and histologic proof of neoplasia to avoid expensive, debilitating exploration in patients in whom cure or meaningful palliation cannot realistically be expected.", "PMID": 449417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9015", "title": "Where is pancreatic research going?", "content": "Research on the exocrine pancreas is showing signs of an accelerating rate of advance. After a period of relative inactivity, there is a prospect for major advances in both basic science and clinical areas. Isolated acinar cells and lobules can now be studied in vitro, and electrophysiologic techniques can be applied to individual cells. Hormones acting on the exocrine pancreas have been isolated and purified, and radioimmunoassays are available. \"Candidate hormones\" are under investigation. Controlled clinical trials of therapeutic agents are being carried out in pancreatic diseases, and a number of new diagnostic techniques are being evaluated. It remains for investigators to propose important new hypotheses that can be tested by these new techniques.", "contents": "Where is pancreatic research going? Research on the exocrine pancreas is showing signs of an accelerating rate of advance. After a period of relative inactivity, there is a prospect for major advances in both basic science and clinical areas. Isolated acinar cells and lobules can now be studied in vitro, and electrophysiologic techniques can be applied to individual cells. Hormones acting on the exocrine pancreas have been isolated and purified, and radioimmunoassays are available. \"Candidate hormones\" are under investigation. Controlled clinical trials of therapeutic agents are being carried out in pancreatic diseases, and a number of new diagnostic techniques are being evaluated. It remains for investigators to propose important new hypotheses that can be tested by these new techniques.", "PMID": 449418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9016", "title": "Cytological changes senescing WI-38 cells: a statistical analysis.", "content": "Changes in the cell, nuclear, nucleolar dry masses and areas were monitored simultaneously during in vitro senescence of WI-38 human fetal lung fibroblast cells, and the results were analyzed statistically. There was a two-step increase in all six parameters studied, following an initial decrease. The patterns of increase were strikingly similar for all six measures, i.e., an initial lag period was followed by a sharp increase, a plateau and a final, abrupt increase. In all cases, there was a strong correlation between corresponding area and dry mass measurements for each cell component. The dry mass/area ratio also increased as a function of in vitro aging and ultimately doubled in value. Weak intrapassage correlations between cell, nuclear and nucleolar dry masses indicated that there were passage to passage differences in the relative rates of dry mass increases which were not apparent over long periods of growth. The increases in all muclear and nucleolar areas were interdependent until the last doubling where they increased independently. The standard deviation for all six parameters increased as a function of in vitro senescence indicating that there was an increase in the heterogeneity of cells relative to these parameters.", "contents": "Cytological changes senescing WI-38 cells: a statistical analysis. Changes in the cell, nuclear, nucleolar dry masses and areas were monitored simultaneously during in vitro senescence of WI-38 human fetal lung fibroblast cells, and the results were analyzed statistically. There was a two-step increase in all six parameters studied, following an initial decrease. The patterns of increase were strikingly similar for all six measures, i.e., an initial lag period was followed by a sharp increase, a plateau and a final, abrupt increase. In all cases, there was a strong correlation between corresponding area and dry mass measurements for each cell component. The dry mass/area ratio also increased as a function of in vitro aging and ultimately doubled in value. Weak intrapassage correlations between cell, nuclear and nucleolar dry masses indicated that there were passage to passage differences in the relative rates of dry mass increases which were not apparent over long periods of growth. The increases in all muclear and nucleolar areas were interdependent until the last doubling where they increased independently. The standard deviation for all six parameters increased as a function of in vitro senescence indicating that there was an increase in the heterogeneity of cells relative to these parameters.", "PMID": 449419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9017", "title": "Evidence for an increase in presumed somatic mutation during the ageing of human cells in culture.", "content": "A method has been developed for the direct measurement of genetic variants in mammalian cells in culture which does not require cell division and is therefore suitable for ageing studies. Previous evidence suggests that these variants are mutations. The variant frequency was measured during the lifespan of populations of MRC-5 human embryo lung fibroblasts. The frequency increased substantially during the lifespan of the culture and regression analysis shows that the increase is exponential. No increase invariant frequency was found in a immortal transformed line cultured for over 100 passages. Evidence is presented that the variants are regulatory mutations. This is the first direct evidence for the involvement of presumed somatic mutations in the ageing of mammalian cells. 5-Fluorouracil but not p-fluorophenylalanine shortened the life of the cells and increase the variant frequency. The data lend support to a model in which mutations are an expected consequence of errors in protein synthesis.", "contents": "Evidence for an increase in presumed somatic mutation during the ageing of human cells in culture. A method has been developed for the direct measurement of genetic variants in mammalian cells in culture which does not require cell division and is therefore suitable for ageing studies. Previous evidence suggests that these variants are mutations. The variant frequency was measured during the lifespan of populations of MRC-5 human embryo lung fibroblasts. The frequency increased substantially during the lifespan of the culture and regression analysis shows that the increase is exponential. No increase invariant frequency was found in a immortal transformed line cultured for over 100 passages. Evidence is presented that the variants are regulatory mutations. This is the first direct evidence for the involvement of presumed somatic mutations in the ageing of mammalian cells. 5-Fluorouracil but not p-fluorophenylalanine shortened the life of the cells and increase the variant frequency. The data lend support to a model in which mutations are an expected consequence of errors in protein synthesis.", "PMID": 449420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9018", "title": "Changes in extrathyroidal conversion of thyroxine (T4) to 3,3',5-triiodothyronine (T3) in vitro during development and aging of the rat.", "content": "Changes with age in the rate of in vitro conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) by organ homogenates were determined in female Wistar rats from 6 days to 18 months old. The conversion rates in liver and kidney homogenates of pups before day 13 are very low, and then rise to reach the maximum value at around day 23. During the period of sexual maturation the conversion activity suddenly decreases, and shows afterwards a gradual decline with age. The activity in both liver and kidney of male rats is higher than that of females except in the immature liver. A sudden rise was observed in the conversion activity of organ homogenates when the rats were released from a period of restricted food intake which started at an early age before maturity was achieved.", "contents": "Changes in extrathyroidal conversion of thyroxine (T4) to 3,3',5-triiodothyronine (T3) in vitro during development and aging of the rat. Changes with age in the rate of in vitro conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) by organ homogenates were determined in female Wistar rats from 6 days to 18 months old. The conversion rates in liver and kidney homogenates of pups before day 13 are very low, and then rise to reach the maximum value at around day 23. During the period of sexual maturation the conversion activity suddenly decreases, and shows afterwards a gradual decline with age. The activity in both liver and kidney of male rats is higher than that of females except in the immature liver. A sudden rise was observed in the conversion activity of organ homogenates when the rats were released from a period of restricted food intake which started at an early age before maturity was achieved.", "PMID": 449421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9019", "title": "On the ultrastructural diversity and essence of residual bodies in neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis.", "content": "In 4 patients with neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinoses (NCL) (3 patients with the junvenile type, 1 patient with the late infantile type), the ultrastructural spectrum of residual bodies in the central and peripheral nervous system presented curvilinear profiles in all cases and regions investigated and many more ultrastructural patterns within and beyond regions commonly accessible to biopsy, probably due to age dependence, local tissue and cellular biochemical factors. Sampling from basal ganglia especially yielded combined curvilinear-fingerpint bodies, from peripheral ganglia additional membranous bodies. Residual bodies in NCL were present in almost every cell type, similar to the distribution of regular lipofuscin. Although the classical subgroups of NCL contain electronmicroscopically well defined residual bodies, permitting distinction of the late infantile type from the juvenile type, the ultrastructural differences are more of a quantitative than of a qualitative nature. However, they are not pathognomonic. N.m.r. spectra of ceroid and lipofuscin support the concept of their biochemical similarity, and argue against the proposition that they contain a single major component.", "contents": "On the ultrastructural diversity and essence of residual bodies in neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis. In 4 patients with neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinoses (NCL) (3 patients with the junvenile type, 1 patient with the late infantile type), the ultrastructural spectrum of residual bodies in the central and peripheral nervous system presented curvilinear profiles in all cases and regions investigated and many more ultrastructural patterns within and beyond regions commonly accessible to biopsy, probably due to age dependence, local tissue and cellular biochemical factors. Sampling from basal ganglia especially yielded combined curvilinear-fingerpint bodies, from peripheral ganglia additional membranous bodies. Residual bodies in NCL were present in almost every cell type, similar to the distribution of regular lipofuscin. Although the classical subgroups of NCL contain electronmicroscopically well defined residual bodies, permitting distinction of the late infantile type from the juvenile type, the ultrastructural differences are more of a quantitative than of a qualitative nature. However, they are not pathognomonic. N.m.r. spectra of ceroid and lipofuscin support the concept of their biochemical similarity, and argue against the proposition that they contain a single major component.", "PMID": 449423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9020", "title": "Changes with age in copper and superoxide dismutase levels in brains of C57BL/6J mice.", "content": "Superoxide dismutase activity in brains of male C57BL/6J mice decreased with age by 36% on a protein base and by 32% on a DNA base between 50 and 900 days of age. Brain copper increased by 45% up to 600 days of age and appeared to increase slightly from 600 to 900 days of age. Feeding of copper gluconate (5 x 10(-3)M) failed to change the level of copper in either young or old brain, and superoxide dismutase activity was not significantly increased or inhibited by copper feeding. Cupric chloride (2.35 x 10(-6)M) was found to inhibit purified superoxide dismutase (2 x 10(-8)M) by 50%. These observations indicate that brain copper concentrations do not directly determine the activity levels of the copper containing enzyme, superoxide dismutase, under normal ageing conditions.", "contents": "Changes with age in copper and superoxide dismutase levels in brains of C57BL/6J mice. Superoxide dismutase activity in brains of male C57BL/6J mice decreased with age by 36% on a protein base and by 32% on a DNA base between 50 and 900 days of age. Brain copper increased by 45% up to 600 days of age and appeared to increase slightly from 600 to 900 days of age. Feeding of copper gluconate (5 x 10(-3)M) failed to change the level of copper in either young or old brain, and superoxide dismutase activity was not significantly increased or inhibited by copper feeding. Cupric chloride (2.35 x 10(-6)M) was found to inhibit purified superoxide dismutase (2 x 10(-8)M) by 50%. These observations indicate that brain copper concentrations do not directly determine the activity levels of the copper containing enzyme, superoxide dismutase, under normal ageing conditions.", "PMID": 449425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9021", "title": "Viscosity of lymphocyte plasma membrane in aging mice and its possible relation to serum cholesterol.", "content": "Lymphocyte membrane fluidity was examined in aged mice and characterized as a qualitative and effective change which takes place in the aging process. Fluorescence polarization of diphenylhexatriene-labelled mouse spleen cells is substantially higher in cells from old mice (20--36 months) than young mice (2--7 months). A similar difference was also observed with isolated plasma membranes from spleen cells of old and young mice. The overall estimate is that the lipid microviscosity in the lymphocyte plasma membrane from old mice is about 20% higher than that of young mice. The cholesterol/phospholipid ratio determined for the isolated plasma membrane preparations was 0.68 and 0.9, respectively, which is probably the main cause for the difference in membrane viscosity. An elevated cholesterol/phospholipid ratio was also observed in the blood serum of old mice. It is plausible that the source of excess membrane cholesterol in the old mouse lymphocytes originates in the high serum cholesterol.", "contents": "Viscosity of lymphocyte plasma membrane in aging mice and its possible relation to serum cholesterol. Lymphocyte membrane fluidity was examined in aged mice and characterized as a qualitative and effective change which takes place in the aging process. Fluorescence polarization of diphenylhexatriene-labelled mouse spleen cells is substantially higher in cells from old mice (20--36 months) than young mice (2--7 months). A similar difference was also observed with isolated plasma membranes from spleen cells of old and young mice. The overall estimate is that the lipid microviscosity in the lymphocyte plasma membrane from old mice is about 20% higher than that of young mice. The cholesterol/phospholipid ratio determined for the isolated plasma membrane preparations was 0.68 and 0.9, respectively, which is probably the main cause for the difference in membrane viscosity. An elevated cholesterol/phospholipid ratio was also observed in the blood serum of old mice. It is plausible that the source of excess membrane cholesterol in the old mouse lymphocytes originates in the high serum cholesterol.", "PMID": 449424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9022", "title": "Lithium effects on social aggregation in the goldfish (Carassius auratus).", "content": "In the first experiment, using 240 goldfish in pairs, the effects of lithium chloride on social aggregation were observed. It was found that aggregation was reduced between two fish when both had received lithium treatment. When, in the second experiment, 24 fish were investigated in groups of three, it was found that maximal disruption of aggregation occurred when all three fish were lithium treated, but that partial social disruption occurred following lithium treatment of two out of three fish. The results are interpreted in terms of a possible lithium induced impairment of central processing of the sensory stimuli responsible for eliciting social following responses.", "contents": "Lithium effects on social aggregation in the goldfish (Carassius auratus). In the first experiment, using 240 goldfish in pairs, the effects of lithium chloride on social aggregation were observed. It was found that aggregation was reduced between two fish when both had received lithium treatment. When, in the second experiment, 24 fish were investigated in groups of three, it was found that maximal disruption of aggregation occurred when all three fish were lithium treated, but that partial social disruption occurred following lithium treatment of two out of three fish. The results are interpreted in terms of a possible lithium induced impairment of central processing of the sensory stimuli responsible for eliciting social following responses.", "PMID": 449426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9023", "title": "Isotopically labelled compounds in the study of extracellular fluid space in dog bone.", "content": "The extracellular fluid space in dog bone has been examined using a series of isotopically labelled compounds. Sodium-77 bromide and indium-113m ethylenediaminetetracetic acid were used as extracellular fluid space markers, radioactive water as a total fluid space marker, and potassium-43 chloride to examine the existence of a bone membrane. The clearance of each tracer from bone was monitored for a period of 2h post-injection. Graphical analysis of the clearance curves shows that the number of exponential functions vary depending on the type of tracer used. The fact that a sum of three exponential terms can completely describe each curve indicates that a simple model consisting of three compartments is sufficient to approximate the clearance of these tracers from bone and its associated fluid space. It is concluded that bone consists of an extracellular fluid space, and that this space may well play an important part in the transference of solutes and the mechanisms involved in their localization on the hydroxyapatite crystals of bone.", "contents": "Isotopically labelled compounds in the study of extracellular fluid space in dog bone. The extracellular fluid space in dog bone has been examined using a series of isotopically labelled compounds. Sodium-77 bromide and indium-113m ethylenediaminetetracetic acid were used as extracellular fluid space markers, radioactive water as a total fluid space marker, and potassium-43 chloride to examine the existence of a bone membrane. The clearance of each tracer from bone was monitored for a period of 2h post-injection. Graphical analysis of the clearance curves shows that the number of exponential functions vary depending on the type of tracer used. The fact that a sum of three exponential terms can completely describe each curve indicates that a simple model consisting of three compartments is sufficient to approximate the clearance of these tracers from bone and its associated fluid space. It is concluded that bone consists of an extracellular fluid space, and that this space may well play an important part in the transference of solutes and the mechanisms involved in their localization on the hydroxyapatite crystals of bone.", "PMID": 449427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9024", "title": "Variation of glutathione levels in Finnsheep.", "content": "Blood glutathione was measured in Finnsheep. Inheritance data show that the two types of GSH concentrations were under independent genetic control. GSH levels were found to be associated with potassium levels and reproduction in Finnsheep.", "contents": "Variation of glutathione levels in Finnsheep. Blood glutathione was measured in Finnsheep. Inheritance data show that the two types of GSH concentrations were under independent genetic control. GSH levels were found to be associated with potassium levels and reproduction in Finnsheep.", "PMID": 449428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9025", "title": "Monoamine oxidase in platelets and brains of non-psychiatric and non-neurological geriatric patients.", "content": "Monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity has previously been found to be high both in brain and in platelets in patients with Alzheimer's disease and low in patients with cycloid psychosis and suicidal behaviour and/or ethanol abuse. To establish if there is a correlation between brain and platelet MAO activities in patients without psychic disease, blood samples from patients in a geriatric ward were collected before death and from 4 different parts of the brain at autopsy. The MAO activities in platelets and brain were then estimated with different substrates. No correlation between the MAO activities in the two tissues was, however, found, regardless of the substrate used.", "contents": "Monoamine oxidase in platelets and brains of non-psychiatric and non-neurological geriatric patients. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity has previously been found to be high both in brain and in platelets in patients with Alzheimer's disease and low in patients with cycloid psychosis and suicidal behaviour and/or ethanol abuse. To establish if there is a correlation between brain and platelet MAO activities in patients without psychic disease, blood samples from patients in a geriatric ward were collected before death and from 4 different parts of the brain at autopsy. The MAO activities in platelets and brain were then estimated with different substrates. No correlation between the MAO activities in the two tissues was, however, found, regardless of the substrate used.", "PMID": 449429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9026", "title": "Measuring provider continuity in ambulatory care: an assessment of alternative approaches.", "content": "A comparison is made of existing measures of provider continuity in ambulatory care to assess differences and limitations. New measures are proposed that complement and improve upon certain limitations of existing measures. These measures are applied to a pilot study of hypertensive patients being seen in a medical outpatient clinic of a teaching hospital. The need for further development and refinement of continuity measures is indicated, and a unifying framework for measuring provider continuity is suggested.", "contents": "Measuring provider continuity in ambulatory care: an assessment of alternative approaches. A comparison is made of existing measures of provider continuity in ambulatory care to assess differences and limitations. New measures are proposed that complement and improve upon certain limitations of existing measures. These measures are applied to a pilot study of hypertensive patients being seen in a medical outpatient clinic of a teaching hospital. The need for further development and refinement of continuity measures is indicated, and a unifying framework for measuring provider continuity is suggested.", "PMID": 449431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9027", "title": "Evaluation of a drug therapy protocol in an HMO.", "content": "Effective means of affecting physician prescribing behavior must be developed if the quality of health care is to be improved. A drug therapy protocol for otitis media, containing a rationale for drugs, doses and days of therapy by patient age, was developed by a physician panel at one site (EI) of an HMO, and implemented at both EI and a second site (EII); a third site was a control. A comparison of prescribing during two phases, before and after implementation of the protocol, suggested that the protocol had a greater influence at site EI than site EII, and that it had a greater influence on the panel physicians than on other prescribers at site EI. Questionnaire responses indicated that clinical experience and personal involvement were the most important protocol use influences. If participation is critical to protocol compliance, the protocol method to improve the quality of health care is severely limited.", "contents": "Evaluation of a drug therapy protocol in an HMO. Effective means of affecting physician prescribing behavior must be developed if the quality of health care is to be improved. A drug therapy protocol for otitis media, containing a rationale for drugs, doses and days of therapy by patient age, was developed by a physician panel at one site (EI) of an HMO, and implemented at both EI and a second site (EII); a third site was a control. A comparison of prescribing during two phases, before and after implementation of the protocol, suggested that the protocol had a greater influence at site EI than site EII, and that it had a greater influence on the panel physicians than on other prescribers at site EI. Questionnaire responses indicated that clinical experience and personal involvement were the most important protocol use influences. If participation is critical to protocol compliance, the protocol method to improve the quality of health care is severely limited.", "PMID": 449432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9028", "title": "The impact of a computerized medical record summary system on incidence and length of hospitalization.", "content": "The present study examined the influence of a computerized medical record summary system on incidence and length of hospitalization. Additional indicators of process of care were also considered. A prospective, randomized design was used where 241 experimental patients had a computerized medical record summary and 238 control patients had the traditional medical record. All patients were followed and compared over a two-year period. Although no difference in incidence of hospitalization was found between patients with and without the summary, during the second year, patients with summaries spent fewer days in the hospital. Patients with summaries also had more completed referrals for consultation, assigned diets, detected new problems and diagnostic tests on record than patients without the summary.", "contents": "The impact of a computerized medical record summary system on incidence and length of hospitalization. The present study examined the influence of a computerized medical record summary system on incidence and length of hospitalization. Additional indicators of process of care were also considered. A prospective, randomized design was used where 241 experimental patients had a computerized medical record summary and 238 control patients had the traditional medical record. All patients were followed and compared over a two-year period. Although no difference in incidence of hospitalization was found between patients with and without the summary, during the second year, patients with summaries spent fewer days in the hospital. Patients with summaries also had more completed referrals for consultation, assigned diets, detected new problems and diagnostic tests on record than patients without the summary.", "PMID": 449434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9029", "title": "Examining the annual drug utilization of a cohort of low income health plan members.", "content": "Changes in the annual drug utilization of a cohort of 828 low income Kaiser Foundation Health Plan members in the Oregon region over a four-year period are examined. The study also attempts to identify relationships between consistency in the levels of annual drug utilization and characteristics of the cohort, prescriptions received and doctor office visits (DOVs). The results show no change in the: 1) annual prescription rate; 2) types of drugs received each year; 3) annual DOV rates; and 4) annual prescribing rate by physician specialties. There was consistency in the annual drug and DOV utilization rate among the cohort through time. Consistency in the level of drug utilization was not always directly related to consistency in the level of DOV utilization. Consistent high users of drugs, while few in number (4.6 per cent), received a large proportion (37.3 per cent) of all prescriptions. A substantial proportion (15.8 per cent) of the cohort were consistent nonusers of drugs. Consistency in the level of drug use was related to: sex and age, purpose (disease classification) of the DOVs, the types (new or refill) of prescriptions received, the therapeutic classes of drug received, the number of prescribing physicians and the number of pharmacies patronized.", "contents": "Examining the annual drug utilization of a cohort of low income health plan members. Changes in the annual drug utilization of a cohort of 828 low income Kaiser Foundation Health Plan members in the Oregon region over a four-year period are examined. The study also attempts to identify relationships between consistency in the levels of annual drug utilization and characteristics of the cohort, prescriptions received and doctor office visits (DOVs). The results show no change in the: 1) annual prescription rate; 2) types of drugs received each year; 3) annual DOV rates; and 4) annual prescribing rate by physician specialties. There was consistency in the annual drug and DOV utilization rate among the cohort through time. Consistency in the level of drug utilization was not always directly related to consistency in the level of DOV utilization. Consistent high users of drugs, while few in number (4.6 per cent), received a large proportion (37.3 per cent) of all prescriptions. A substantial proportion (15.8 per cent) of the cohort were consistent nonusers of drugs. Consistency in the level of drug use was related to: sex and age, purpose (disease classification) of the DOVs, the types (new or refill) of prescriptions received, the therapeutic classes of drug received, the number of prescribing physicians and the number of pharmacies patronized.", "PMID": 449433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9030", "title": "Primary care and social control.", "content": "Role performance in primary care becomes problematic when a disproportionate emphasis is placed on the physician's legitimizing function which is geared to endorse entry into the sick role so that he is less able to devote himself to curative or preventive tasks. Israel is used as an example of a society in which the delivery system of medical care has moved far in this direction as a result of pressures both from consumers and from the wider social system. The former utilize the medical care system for its latent as well as for its manifest functions, while the latter makes use of it for legitimation of role avoidance and for allocation of scare resources on the assumption that universalistic criteria of medical need are used in these processes. Excessive utilization rates of clinical facilities and dissatisfaction among primary care physicians are apparently among the dysfunctional results of these patterns. Some questions are raised as to the implications of placing major social control mechanisms in the hands of the medical care system which in effect is not really geared to handle these tasks.", "contents": "Primary care and social control. Role performance in primary care becomes problematic when a disproportionate emphasis is placed on the physician's legitimizing function which is geared to endorse entry into the sick role so that he is less able to devote himself to curative or preventive tasks. Israel is used as an example of a society in which the delivery system of medical care has moved far in this direction as a result of pressures both from consumers and from the wider social system. The former utilize the medical care system for its latent as well as for its manifest functions, while the latter makes use of it for legitimation of role avoidance and for allocation of scare resources on the assumption that universalistic criteria of medical need are used in these processes. Excessive utilization rates of clinical facilities and dissatisfaction among primary care physicians are apparently among the dysfunctional results of these patterns. Some questions are raised as to the implications of placing major social control mechanisms in the hands of the medical care system which in effect is not really geared to handle these tasks.", "PMID": 449435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9031", "title": "Differences in attitudes toward terminal patients among selected medical specialities of physicians.", "content": "Medical specialty of physicians was related to attitudes toward dying patients to determine if differences occur as suggested by the literature. Data from a questionnaire completed by 1,012 physicians from the classes of 1972--1975 in five selected medical schools were analyzed using the chi-square distribution to test the relationship between the response to each of the 11 Likert-type statements and the medical specialty of the physicians. Mean responses by medical specialty to the statements were ranked and correlated to Rea's ranking with respect to the probability of dealing with terminal patients by specialty using a Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient. Support was found for Rea's conclusion that physicians such as oncologists with a high probability of relating to dying patients tended to be more open with the patient whereas a specialty like obstetrics-gynecology with a low probability tended to operate in more of a closed awareness context.", "contents": "Differences in attitudes toward terminal patients among selected medical specialities of physicians. Medical specialty of physicians was related to attitudes toward dying patients to determine if differences occur as suggested by the literature. Data from a questionnaire completed by 1,012 physicians from the classes of 1972--1975 in five selected medical schools were analyzed using the chi-square distribution to test the relationship between the response to each of the 11 Likert-type statements and the medical specialty of the physicians. Mean responses by medical specialty to the statements were ranked and correlated to Rea's ranking with respect to the probability of dealing with terminal patients by specialty using a Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient. Support was found for Rea's conclusion that physicians such as oncologists with a high probability of relating to dying patients tended to be more open with the patient whereas a specialty like obstetrics-gynecology with a low probability tended to operate in more of a closed awareness context.", "PMID": 449437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9032", "title": "Interaction exchange structure and patient satisfaction with medical interviews.", "content": "The verbal interaction between patients and physicians in 52 initial interviews in a university hospital screening clinic was studied using a new discourse coding system. Factor analysis of category frequencies showed that each interview segment, medical history, physical examination, and conclusion, consisted mainly of two or three types of verbal exchange. Patient satisfaction with the interviews, assessed with a questionnaire that yields separate scores for satisfaction with cognitive and affective aspects, was found to be associated with exchanges involving the transmission of information in particular interview segments. Affective satisfaction was associated with transmission of information from patient to physician in \"exposition\" exchanges during the medical history, in which patients told their story in their own words. Cognitive satisfaction was associated with transmission of information from physician to patient in \"feedback\" exchanges during the conclusion segment, in which physicians gave patients information about illness and treatment.", "contents": "Interaction exchange structure and patient satisfaction with medical interviews. The verbal interaction between patients and physicians in 52 initial interviews in a university hospital screening clinic was studied using a new discourse coding system. Factor analysis of category frequencies showed that each interview segment, medical history, physical examination, and conclusion, consisted mainly of two or three types of verbal exchange. Patient satisfaction with the interviews, assessed with a questionnaire that yields separate scores for satisfaction with cognitive and affective aspects, was found to be associated with exchanges involving the transmission of information in particular interview segments. Affective satisfaction was associated with transmission of information from patient to physician in \"exposition\" exchanges during the medical history, in which patients told their story in their own words. Cognitive satisfaction was associated with transmission of information from physician to patient in \"feedback\" exchanges during the conclusion segment, in which physicians gave patients information about illness and treatment.", "PMID": 449436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9033", "title": "Treatment of intractable ascites in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis by peritoneovenous shunting (LeVeen).", "content": "Several hemodynamic abnormalities in the patient with cirrhosis comprise a unique distributive circulatory disturbance that causes intractable ascites and that is, in turn, worsened by the resulting ascites. Ascites is promptly alleviated by drainage of the ascitic fluid into the intravascular compartment. The circulatory abnormalities improve in part because of elimination of the ascites, and also because of a compensatory hypervolemia. The consequences of the latter, especially in the immediate postoperative period, are increased likelihood of pulmonary edema and of gastrointestinal bleeding from heightened portal vein pressure. Postoperative coagulopathy is also a significant problem. Careful selection of patients for the procedure, close postoperative observation and vigorous use of diuretics and other agents will usually enable these complications to be obviated or successfully treated. Increases in body muscle and fat masses and serum albumin concentrations indicate nutritional improvement. Despite evidence of benefits from the procedure, these patients continue to die from the complications that threaten other cirrhotics: effects of return to alcoholism, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, recurrent infections and intestinal obstruction. Thus, it is not yet clear that the benefits include prolongation of life.", "contents": "Treatment of intractable ascites in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis by peritoneovenous shunting (LeVeen). Several hemodynamic abnormalities in the patient with cirrhosis comprise a unique distributive circulatory disturbance that causes intractable ascites and that is, in turn, worsened by the resulting ascites. Ascites is promptly alleviated by drainage of the ascitic fluid into the intravascular compartment. The circulatory abnormalities improve in part because of elimination of the ascites, and also because of a compensatory hypervolemia. The consequences of the latter, especially in the immediate postoperative period, are increased likelihood of pulmonary edema and of gastrointestinal bleeding from heightened portal vein pressure. Postoperative coagulopathy is also a significant problem. Careful selection of patients for the procedure, close postoperative observation and vigorous use of diuretics and other agents will usually enable these complications to be obviated or successfully treated. Increases in body muscle and fat masses and serum albumin concentrations indicate nutritional improvement. Despite evidence of benefits from the procedure, these patients continue to die from the complications that threaten other cirrhotics: effects of return to alcoholism, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, recurrent infections and intestinal obstruction. Thus, it is not yet clear that the benefits include prolongation of life.", "PMID": 449438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9034", "title": "Chemical hepatitis: pathogenesis, detection and management.", "content": "The toxic effects of many nonmedicinal chemicals include serious hepatic injury, often accompanied by various degrees of damage to other organs. Some chemicals produce only mild damage. Others are capable of producing injury only after ingestion of large amounts, after severe exposure, or in combination with another agent such as alcohol.", "contents": "Chemical hepatitis: pathogenesis, detection and management. The toxic effects of many nonmedicinal chemicals include serious hepatic injury, often accompanied by various degrees of damage to other organs. Some chemicals produce only mild damage. Others are capable of producing injury only after ingestion of large amounts, after severe exposure, or in combination with another agent such as alcohol.", "PMID": 449440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9035", "title": "Vitamin and mineral supplements in the management of liver disease.", "content": "While pharmacologic doses of specific vitamins or minerals are probably not warranted as a therapy for acute or chronic liver disease, deficiencies of micronutrients among patients with liver disease are extremely common, act to the detriment of the patient, and should be corrected so that normal metabolic processes can allow both regeneration of tissue and resistance to infection.", "contents": "Vitamin and mineral supplements in the management of liver disease. While pharmacologic doses of specific vitamins or minerals are probably not warranted as a therapy for acute or chronic liver disease, deficiencies of micronutrients among patients with liver disease are extremely common, act to the detriment of the patient, and should be corrected so that normal metabolic processes can allow both regeneration of tissue and resistance to infection.", "PMID": 449439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9036", "title": "[Use of a fibrin glue for reconstructing the posterior meatal wall (author's transl)].", "content": "In 15 cases of tympanomeatoplastics of the last year a special \"glue\", consisting of human fibrinogen and thrombin, was used to glue grafts of homologues cartilage into the defect of the posterior wall. In 14 of 15 cases the result was satisfactory.", "contents": "[Use of a fibrin glue for reconstructing the posterior meatal wall (author's transl)]. In 15 cases of tympanomeatoplastics of the last year a special \"glue\", consisting of human fibrinogen and thrombin, was used to glue grafts of homologues cartilage into the defect of the posterior wall. In 14 of 15 cases the result was satisfactory.", "PMID": 449499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9037", "title": "[Cerebrospinal fistula tight closure of dural defects using surgical adhesives. A comparative experimental study (author's transl)].", "content": "In 3 cats artificial bony and dural defects of the posterior frontal sinus walls facing the frontal brain were closed with the help of a physiologic fibrin-based adhesive system (FAS) and a synthetic tissue adhesive (N-butylcyanoacrylate) in an attempt at comparing the relative merits and demerits of the 2 techniques. The bony and dural defects were partially covered with fascial tissue. Subsequently, the defects were sealed with adhesive using cyanoacrylate for the left frontal sinus and FAS for the right one. Unless healing was complicated by wound infection, fibrous tissue was found to have bridged the defects on either side 14 days after surgery, ensuring cerebrospinal fistula tight closure. Wound infection occurred in 2 cases involving the frontal sinuses closed with FAS. Micro-organisms had apparently been introduced from the respiratory tract and, in one case, spread to the contralateral frontal sinus treated with cyanoacrylate. Thus, the risk of infection associated with FAS appears to be higher than that of conventional techniques. Germ growth was found to be inhibited in vitro by adding an antibiotic to the FAS. For this reason, we would recommend the admixture of an antibiotic to the FAS whenever the adhesive is used in surgical fields which are exposed to infection. Further sutdies are needed to find the best suited antibiotic, its optimum dosage and mode of applications.", "contents": "[Cerebrospinal fistula tight closure of dural defects using surgical adhesives. A comparative experimental study (author's transl)]. In 3 cats artificial bony and dural defects of the posterior frontal sinus walls facing the frontal brain were closed with the help of a physiologic fibrin-based adhesive system (FAS) and a synthetic tissue adhesive (N-butylcyanoacrylate) in an attempt at comparing the relative merits and demerits of the 2 techniques. The bony and dural defects were partially covered with fascial tissue. Subsequently, the defects were sealed with adhesive using cyanoacrylate for the left frontal sinus and FAS for the right one. Unless healing was complicated by wound infection, fibrous tissue was found to have bridged the defects on either side 14 days after surgery, ensuring cerebrospinal fistula tight closure. Wound infection occurred in 2 cases involving the frontal sinuses closed with FAS. Micro-organisms had apparently been introduced from the respiratory tract and, in one case, spread to the contralateral frontal sinus treated with cyanoacrylate. Thus, the risk of infection associated with FAS appears to be higher than that of conventional techniques. Germ growth was found to be inhibited in vitro by adding an antibiotic to the FAS. For this reason, we would recommend the admixture of an antibiotic to the FAS whenever the adhesive is used in surgical fields which are exposed to infection. Further sutdies are needed to find the best suited antibiotic, its optimum dosage and mode of applications.", "PMID": 449500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9038", "title": "[The application of cortical bone avoiding retraction pockets in case of cholesteatoma operations (author's transl)].", "content": "All those different operation methods thought for the preservation and reconstruction of the posterior canal wall in the last decennium show us in a high degree the extension of the problems. We ourselves have--after first enthusiasm for the \"temporary meatotomy\"--later preferred the \"combined-approach-technic\". Hereby the care to avoid retraction pockets in the lateral attic wall stood ahead. After the first use of muscle, connective tissue and fascia, later on the lyophilised dura and the cartilage, we today prefer cortical bone of the planum mastoideum. This is thought to be the original material for this purpose not having been in touch with the cholesteatoma or the matrix and guarantees by the accompanied periosterm a seamless pass over to the remaining canal wall. Also an additional usage of lyophilised dura--situated bricklike along the separating line--avoids a new retraction. In case of the slightest suspection for the possibility of a residual cholesteatoma a \"Second look\" operation should be carried out one year after the first operation. A further control should follow after 5 years.", "contents": "[The application of cortical bone avoiding retraction pockets in case of cholesteatoma operations (author's transl)]. All those different operation methods thought for the preservation and reconstruction of the posterior canal wall in the last decennium show us in a high degree the extension of the problems. We ourselves have--after first enthusiasm for the \"temporary meatotomy\"--later preferred the \"combined-approach-technic\". Hereby the care to avoid retraction pockets in the lateral attic wall stood ahead. After the first use of muscle, connective tissue and fascia, later on the lyophilised dura and the cartilage, we today prefer cortical bone of the planum mastoideum. This is thought to be the original material for this purpose not having been in touch with the cholesteatoma or the matrix and guarantees by the accompanied periosterm a seamless pass over to the remaining canal wall. Also an additional usage of lyophilised dura--situated bricklike along the separating line--avoids a new retraction. In case of the slightest suspection for the possibility of a residual cholesteatoma a \"Second look\" operation should be carried out one year after the first operation. A further control should follow after 5 years.", "PMID": 449501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9039", "title": "[Tympanosclerosis (author's transl)].", "content": "With a new method--that is embedding non-decalcified tissue in Methylmethacrylat and then slicing it--the patho-histological phenomenon of the tympanosclerosis can be demonstrated with 4 patients on account of the material acquired with the tympanoplasties showing rare localisations (such as stapedial tendon, mastoidale). According to our experiences (42 cases) tympanosclerosis is mainly to be found in female patients not older than 40 years. The genesis of the tympanosclerosis and its reparation through surgical techniques are discussed.", "contents": "[Tympanosclerosis (author's transl)]. With a new method--that is embedding non-decalcified tissue in Methylmethacrylat and then slicing it--the patho-histological phenomenon of the tympanosclerosis can be demonstrated with 4 patients on account of the material acquired with the tympanoplasties showing rare localisations (such as stapedial tendon, mastoidale). According to our experiences (42 cases) tympanosclerosis is mainly to be found in female patients not older than 40 years. The genesis of the tympanosclerosis and its reparation through surgical techniques are discussed.", "PMID": 449502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9040", "title": "[Direct continuous measurement of middle ear pressure: method and clinical results (author's transl)].", "content": "Method (part 1): A method for the direct measurement of the middle ear pressure for clinical use is introduced. This method allows continuous pressure registration in the normal and pathological middle ear. The determination of the parameters influencing middle ear pressure like volume of the middle ear cavity, gas resorption, tube function is possible. The influence of body movement, changes of temperature etc. on the middle ear pressure can be registrated. The precondition for this method is a tube in the tympanic membrane. Clinical results (part 2): In 42 patients pressure development in physiological tube function and dysfunction, in patulous Eustachian tubes and tube obstructions can be registrated. The volume of the middle ear cavities and the increasing negative pressure because of gas resorption can be analysed with this method. In obstructed tubes different development of negative pressure may indicate differences in the elasticity of tympanic membranes. This method gives valuable criterion on middle ear pressure changes considering parameters like gas diffusion, tube function, cavity volume and membrane elasticity in normal and pathological middle ears.", "contents": "[Direct continuous measurement of middle ear pressure: method and clinical results (author's transl)]. Method (part 1): A method for the direct measurement of the middle ear pressure for clinical use is introduced. This method allows continuous pressure registration in the normal and pathological middle ear. The determination of the parameters influencing middle ear pressure like volume of the middle ear cavity, gas resorption, tube function is possible. The influence of body movement, changes of temperature etc. on the middle ear pressure can be registrated. The precondition for this method is a tube in the tympanic membrane. Clinical results (part 2): In 42 patients pressure development in physiological tube function and dysfunction, in patulous Eustachian tubes and tube obstructions can be registrated. The volume of the middle ear cavities and the increasing negative pressure because of gas resorption can be analysed with this method. In obstructed tubes different development of negative pressure may indicate differences in the elasticity of tympanic membranes. This method gives valuable criterion on middle ear pressure changes considering parameters like gas diffusion, tube function, cavity volume and membrane elasticity in normal and pathological middle ears.", "PMID": 449503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9041", "title": "[\"Sudden binaural deafness\" after acute heroin intoxication (author's transl)].", "content": "After intoxication by an overdose of intravenously applied heroin, a 20 year old man developed a nearly symmetrical, tub-shaped sensorineural deafness of max. 50-60 dB at the frequencies 1000-4000 Hz, which receded completely within 3 days. In addition, a short survey is given of hitherto known neurological complications after heroin intoxication.", "contents": "[\"Sudden binaural deafness\" after acute heroin intoxication (author's transl)]. After intoxication by an overdose of intravenously applied heroin, a 20 year old man developed a nearly symmetrical, tub-shaped sensorineural deafness of max. 50-60 dB at the frequencies 1000-4000 Hz, which receded completely within 3 days. In addition, a short survey is given of hitherto known neurological complications after heroin intoxication.", "PMID": 449504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9042", "title": "[On the audiology of multiple sclerosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The paper reports about a female patient who developed an uncommon, unilateral, reversible hearing defect while suffering from multiple sclerosis. The tone audiogram showed a break in the hearing threshold curve down to values no longer measurable, progressing from the high to the low frequencies. There were all symptoms of a retrocochlear hearing defect. After about a month a restitutio ad integrum was achieved. The paper continues with discussions on the seat of the focus of demyelinisation with particular reference to the central part of the N. acusticus, whose myelin sheaths are formed by glia cells.", "contents": "[On the audiology of multiple sclerosis (author's transl)]. The paper reports about a female patient who developed an uncommon, unilateral, reversible hearing defect while suffering from multiple sclerosis. The tone audiogram showed a break in the hearing threshold curve down to values no longer measurable, progressing from the high to the low frequencies. There were all symptoms of a retrocochlear hearing defect. After about a month a restitutio ad integrum was achieved. The paper continues with discussions on the seat of the focus of demyelinisation with particular reference to the central part of the N. acusticus, whose myelin sheaths are formed by glia cells.", "PMID": 449505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9043", "title": "[N. glossopharyngeus and tonsillectomy (author's transl)].", "content": "Due to its course in the pharyngeal space, the trunk of the glossopharyngeal nerve can be damaged during tonsillectomy which results in paralysis of the soft palate and impairment of the sense of taste. These symptoms may recede within two years but permanent damages can be seen as well. They can be treated by logopedia and relaxation therapy.", "contents": "[N. glossopharyngeus and tonsillectomy (author's transl)]. Due to its course in the pharyngeal space, the trunk of the glossopharyngeal nerve can be damaged during tonsillectomy which results in paralysis of the soft palate and impairment of the sense of taste. These symptoms may recede within two years but permanent damages can be seen as well. They can be treated by logopedia and relaxation therapy.", "PMID": 449507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9044", "title": "[Vestibular results before and after neurectomy of the vestibular nerve in cases of vertigo resistant to medical treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "25 patients suffering from vertigo due to peripheral-vestibular disorders resistant to medical treatment underwent neurectomy of the vestibular nerve. Pr\u00e4operatively 24 showed a pathological result in the neurotological examination. In 83% of the cases an abnormal caloric reaction could be seen in the frequency-calorigram, which graphically represents the caloric test. The postoperative objective vestibular results always correlated with the subjective feeling of vertigo. We could see a decrease and finally a disappearance of the horizontal unidirectional spontaneous nystagmus. It is of value to examine the gaze nystagmus in none directions of gaze. In the positiogram, a quantitative scheme of the positional test, one could recongize a decrease of the nystagmus intensity in the follow-up examination. The same was found by testing the vestibulo-spinal reactions. Although the neurectomy of the vestibular nerve involves a serious operation it is nevertheless the first choice of treatment. 96% of the cases are free from vertigo. Postoperative there is a very low complication quota.", "contents": "[Vestibular results before and after neurectomy of the vestibular nerve in cases of vertigo resistant to medical treatment (author's transl)]. 25 patients suffering from vertigo due to peripheral-vestibular disorders resistant to medical treatment underwent neurectomy of the vestibular nerve. Pr\u00e4operatively 24 showed a pathological result in the neurotological examination. In 83% of the cases an abnormal caloric reaction could be seen in the frequency-calorigram, which graphically represents the caloric test. The postoperative objective vestibular results always correlated with the subjective feeling of vertigo. We could see a decrease and finally a disappearance of the horizontal unidirectional spontaneous nystagmus. It is of value to examine the gaze nystagmus in none directions of gaze. In the positiogram, a quantitative scheme of the positional test, one could recongize a decrease of the nystagmus intensity in the follow-up examination. The same was found by testing the vestibulo-spinal reactions. Although the neurectomy of the vestibular nerve involves a serious operation it is nevertheless the first choice of treatment. 96% of the cases are free from vertigo. Postoperative there is a very low complication quota.", "PMID": 449506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9045", "title": "[Contribution on household dust allergy (author's transl)].", "content": "In 1970 the allergy out-patient department of the First Otolaryngological University Hospital of Vienna reported for the first time about the increasing significance of mould fungus allergies in the respiratory tract. RAST now makes in possible to analyze the indivudual fractions of a household dust sensitization by way of experiments. We have seen that in the case of positive RAST reactions to household dust, which is a mixed antigen unspecific as such, evidence can be found for at least one of the antigens \"mould fungus\", \"household dust mite\", or \"animal hair\" in positive RAST categories. Among the 107 cases of the RAST categories 2 und 3 with respect to household dust (h3) a household-dust mite sensitization was evidenced in 88 percent, the respective figures for animal hair sensitization being 49 percent and for mould fungus sensitization 43 percent.", "contents": "[Contribution on household dust allergy (author's transl)]. In 1970 the allergy out-patient department of the First Otolaryngological University Hospital of Vienna reported for the first time about the increasing significance of mould fungus allergies in the respiratory tract. RAST now makes in possible to analyze the indivudual fractions of a household dust sensitization by way of experiments. We have seen that in the case of positive RAST reactions to household dust, which is a mixed antigen unspecific as such, evidence can be found for at least one of the antigens \"mould fungus\", \"household dust mite\", or \"animal hair\" in positive RAST categories. Among the 107 cases of the RAST categories 2 und 3 with respect to household dust (h3) a household-dust mite sensitization was evidenced in 88 percent, the respective figures for animal hair sensitization being 49 percent and for mould fungus sensitization 43 percent.", "PMID": 449508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9046", "title": "Improved case finding for pediatric hearing loss: cost analysis of school screening programs.", "content": "The majority of school hearing conservation programs employ pure tone identification audiometry as a basis of referral for further evaluation. An analysis of the cost impact of school screening programs is presented and a method of relating costs to screening program accuracy is described. This type of analysis may be used as a model for estimating cost impact and cost-benefit for pure tone audiometry and other techniques of screening for hearing loss.", "contents": "Improved case finding for pediatric hearing loss: cost analysis of school screening programs. The majority of school hearing conservation programs employ pure tone identification audiometry as a basis of referral for further evaluation. An analysis of the cost impact of school screening programs is presented and a method of relating costs to screening program accuracy is described. This type of analysis may be used as a model for estimating cost impact and cost-benefit for pure tone audiometry and other techniques of screening for hearing loss.", "PMID": 449509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9047", "title": "Otosclerosis surgery: reassessment of its value in 1978.", "content": "Today, surgical correction is the treatment of choice for the hearing loss associated with footplate otosclerosis. Experience with stapes surgery reveals this to be functionally and economically superior to the long-term use of hearing aids. There is, however, a predictable rate of surgical complications. Sensorineural hearing loss, dizziness and/or facial nerve palsy have an immense social and economic impact upon the patient, the family and the surgeon. Otosclerosis surgery will be presented in the perspective of benefits, untoward results, and alternate forms of treatment. A cost analysis of the foregoing will shed light on the future of otosclerosis surgery.", "contents": "Otosclerosis surgery: reassessment of its value in 1978. Today, surgical correction is the treatment of choice for the hearing loss associated with footplate otosclerosis. Experience with stapes surgery reveals this to be functionally and economically superior to the long-term use of hearing aids. There is, however, a predictable rate of surgical complications. Sensorineural hearing loss, dizziness and/or facial nerve palsy have an immense social and economic impact upon the patient, the family and the surgeon. Otosclerosis surgery will be presented in the perspective of benefits, untoward results, and alternate forms of treatment. A cost analysis of the foregoing will shed light on the future of otosclerosis surgery.", "PMID": 449515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9048", "title": "Management of the totally disabled middle ear.", "content": "A short review of past techniques and materials used in treating the totally disabled middle ear is presented. Basic principles to be observed in management of this problem are discussed and the method of middle ear rehabilitation using the double layer Silastic technique is introduced. Cases (231) are reviewed with comments on the functional results achieved. It is concluded that a reliable total ossicular replacement prosthesis has yet to be produced.", "contents": "Management of the totally disabled middle ear. A short review of past techniques and materials used in treating the totally disabled middle ear is presented. Basic principles to be observed in management of this problem are discussed and the method of middle ear rehabilitation using the double layer Silastic technique is introduced. Cases (231) are reviewed with comments on the functional results achieved. It is concluded that a reliable total ossicular replacement prosthesis has yet to be produced.", "PMID": 449516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9049", "title": "Protocol for determining the auditory percepts of electrical stimulation of the cochlea.", "content": "The percepts of electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve can best be determined in man. An eight channel bipolar electrode array has been developed which allows discreet stimulation of segments of auditory nerve via the scala tympani. In addition, a programmable stimulator has been developed which allows the delivery of different waveforms and stimulus patterns. Hopefully this will begin to allow the generation of the elements of speech.", "contents": "Protocol for determining the auditory percepts of electrical stimulation of the cochlea. The percepts of electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve can best be determined in man. An eight channel bipolar electrode array has been developed which allows discreet stimulation of segments of auditory nerve via the scala tympani. In addition, a programmable stimulator has been developed which allows the delivery of different waveforms and stimulus patterns. Hopefully this will begin to allow the generation of the elements of speech.", "PMID": 449518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9050", "title": "Bilateral cochlear implants: histological findings in a pair of temporal bones.", "content": "The specimens were obtained from a 63-year-old white male with acquired lues. The patient experienced sudden profound deafness on the left side 15 years prior to death, and a similar loss on the right side 3 years later. By the time of death he had carried a single induction coil in the right ear for 3 years and multiple (5) hardwire electrodes in the left ear for 8 years. A complete micro-dissection or \"mini-autopsy\" of the specimens was performed, and the modiolus was sectioned. Photomicrographs of the dissections will be shown. In the right ear supporting elements and numerous nerve fibers were present in the apical turn. The electrode on this side was apparently tolerated well; scala tympani was normal in shape and appearance. On the left side no nerve fibers were found in the osseous spiral lamina and there was extensive new bone formation in scala tympani. It is difficult to determine if or to what extent the implants were responsible for the severe sensorineural degeneration observed in both specimens. There was severe scarring and ossification of the posterior ampulla in both ears, in all likelihood resulting from the surgery. Some aspects of surgical techniques will be discussed in view of the histopathological findings.", "contents": "Bilateral cochlear implants: histological findings in a pair of temporal bones. The specimens were obtained from a 63-year-old white male with acquired lues. The patient experienced sudden profound deafness on the left side 15 years prior to death, and a similar loss on the right side 3 years later. By the time of death he had carried a single induction coil in the right ear for 3 years and multiple (5) hardwire electrodes in the left ear for 8 years. A complete micro-dissection or \"mini-autopsy\" of the specimens was performed, and the modiolus was sectioned. Photomicrographs of the dissections will be shown. In the right ear supporting elements and numerous nerve fibers were present in the apical turn. The electrode on this side was apparently tolerated well; scala tympani was normal in shape and appearance. On the left side no nerve fibers were found in the osseous spiral lamina and there was extensive new bone formation in scala tympani. It is difficult to determine if or to what extent the implants were responsible for the severe sensorineural degeneration observed in both specimens. There was severe scarring and ossification of the posterior ampulla in both ears, in all likelihood resulting from the surgery. Some aspects of surgical techniques will be discussed in view of the histopathological findings.", "PMID": 449521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9051", "title": "A method for refixation of the multifractured respiratory cranium.", "content": "So-called Tantalum-Visors are used to refixate the multifractured facial skeleton, torn off the base of the skull by trauma, in a three dimensional way to avoid dishface and pseudotelorismus. These visors are kept in storage: a small model--glabella visor, and a large one--zygomatic visor. Of both types, a bigger one is for the head of a male, a smaller for a female and still smaller for youth, because it is impossible to make an individual mold immediately following an accident.", "contents": "A method for refixation of the multifractured respiratory cranium. So-called Tantalum-Visors are used to refixate the multifractured facial skeleton, torn off the base of the skull by trauma, in a three dimensional way to avoid dishface and pseudotelorismus. These visors are kept in storage: a small model--glabella visor, and a large one--zygomatic visor. Of both types, a bigger one is for the head of a male, a smaller for a female and still smaller for youth, because it is impossible to make an individual mold immediately following an accident.", "PMID": 449522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9052", "title": "Optokinetic nystagmus: a comparative study of two stimulators.", "content": "The neural mechanisms for optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) may be clinically relevant to the two methods used to detect these abnormalities. If one subscribes to the cortical (macular) theory, visual fixation is always involved and results by conventional drum rotation or by pursuit of a moving light source ought to be the same. Conversely, if OKN can be the result of peripheral vision and subcortical pathways, results with the drum (which does not require macular vision) and moving light (which does) ought to be different. Both the drum and moving light methods were compared on a sample of 514 patients. Both methods compared equally in eliciting abnormal responses in patients with an established diagnosis and in correlation with calibration, gaze, and false positive responses. The drum was superior in the remainder of comparisons.", "contents": "Optokinetic nystagmus: a comparative study of two stimulators. The neural mechanisms for optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) may be clinically relevant to the two methods used to detect these abnormalities. If one subscribes to the cortical (macular) theory, visual fixation is always involved and results by conventional drum rotation or by pursuit of a moving light source ought to be the same. Conversely, if OKN can be the result of peripheral vision and subcortical pathways, results with the drum (which does not require macular vision) and moving light (which does) ought to be different. Both the drum and moving light methods were compared on a sample of 514 patients. Both methods compared equally in eliciting abnormal responses in patients with an established diagnosis and in correlation with calibration, gaze, and false positive responses. The drum was superior in the remainder of comparisons.", "PMID": 449523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9053", "title": "Surgical correction of complete tracheoesophageal cleft.", "content": "Laryngotracheal esophageal cleft is a rare congenital anomaly that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any neonatal respiratory distress aggravated by feeding. Diagnosis is difficult and repeat endoscopic examinations may be necessary. In complete clefts, immediate surgical repair is indicated with combined approach through the chest and neck and incorporation of part of the esophageal wall into the repair. Because the cleft may be associated with esophageal atresia and/or tracheal esophageal fistula, it should be suspected in patients who have persistent symptoms after successful repair.", "contents": "Surgical correction of complete tracheoesophageal cleft. Laryngotracheal esophageal cleft is a rare congenital anomaly that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any neonatal respiratory distress aggravated by feeding. Diagnosis is difficult and repeat endoscopic examinations may be necessary. In complete clefts, immediate surgical repair is indicated with combined approach through the chest and neck and incorporation of part of the esophageal wall into the repair. Because the cleft may be associated with esophageal atresia and/or tracheal esophageal fistula, it should be suspected in patients who have persistent symptoms after successful repair.", "PMID": 449524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9054", "title": "Computed tomography of the larynx.", "content": "The normal computed tomographic anatomy of the larynx and surrounding structures is illustrated and discussed. An attempt is made to distinguish various types of tissues in cross-sectional display. The advantages of computed tomography over other modalities used for imaging the laryngeal region include the capacity to depict structural relationships in cross-section, to better define cartilaginous involvement by adjacent neoplasms, and to identify vascular components with contrast enhancement. The clinical application of computed tomography with respect to radiation therapy treatment planning of laryngeal tumors in an important feature of this imaging technique.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the larynx. The normal computed tomographic anatomy of the larynx and surrounding structures is illustrated and discussed. An attempt is made to distinguish various types of tissues in cross-sectional display. The advantages of computed tomography over other modalities used for imaging the laryngeal region include the capacity to depict structural relationships in cross-section, to better define cartilaginous involvement by adjacent neoplasms, and to identify vascular components with contrast enhancement. The clinical application of computed tomography with respect to radiation therapy treatment planning of laryngeal tumors in an important feature of this imaging technique.", "PMID": 449525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9055", "title": "Technique of preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection.", "content": "Preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection eliminates shoulder disability and does not compromise the incidence of neck recurrence in properly selected cases. The literature and standard textbooks only superficially refer to the method dissecting this nerve. We describe our technique of preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection.", "contents": "Technique of preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection. Preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection eliminates shoulder disability and does not compromise the incidence of neck recurrence in properly selected cases. The literature and standard textbooks only superficially refer to the method dissecting this nerve. We describe our technique of preserving the spinal accessory nerve during radical neck dissection.", "PMID": 449526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9056", "title": "Histamine, norepinephrine and serotonin content of nasal polyps.", "content": "Histamine, norepinephrine and serotonin were assayed and localized by fluorescence histochemistry in normal mucosa and nasal polyps because of their possible role in the development of inflammation and edema. Histamine was present in greater concentration in nasal polyps than in normal mucosa. Norepinephrine was present primarily in the base of nasal polyps and in greater concentration than in normal mucosa. Patients with aspirin sensitivity and asthma had much lower histamine concentrations in their nasal polyps than all other patients with nasal polyps. A proposal for a possible mechanism of formation of nasal polyps based on vascular and inflammatory mechanisms and incorporative roles for histamine and norepinephrine is presented.", "contents": "Histamine, norepinephrine and serotonin content of nasal polyps. Histamine, norepinephrine and serotonin were assayed and localized by fluorescence histochemistry in normal mucosa and nasal polyps because of their possible role in the development of inflammation and edema. Histamine was present in greater concentration in nasal polyps than in normal mucosa. Norepinephrine was present primarily in the base of nasal polyps and in greater concentration than in normal mucosa. Patients with aspirin sensitivity and asthma had much lower histamine concentrations in their nasal polyps than all other patients with nasal polyps. A proposal for a possible mechanism of formation of nasal polyps based on vascular and inflammatory mechanisms and incorporative roles for histamine and norepinephrine is presented.", "PMID": 449527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9057", "title": "Tracheostomy-related subglottic stenosis: bacteriologic pathogenesis.", "content": "Subglottic stenosis carries devastating consequences. Its pathogenesis, and therefore prevention, have thus far eluded precise definition. The following data suggest that tracheostomy results in a contaminated wound, secondarily infecting a larynx which may have been injured by prior intubation, fracture, or surgery. The interpretation of these data is based upon the tested assumption that infection prolongs healing of injured tissue and predisposes to scar and stricture formation. Therefore, the ability of control stomal contamination by the judicious use of topical or systemic antibiotics may play an important role in the prevention of complications in an organ functionally by-passed by the tracheostomy cannula.", "contents": "Tracheostomy-related subglottic stenosis: bacteriologic pathogenesis. Subglottic stenosis carries devastating consequences. Its pathogenesis, and therefore prevention, have thus far eluded precise definition. The following data suggest that tracheostomy results in a contaminated wound, secondarily infecting a larynx which may have been injured by prior intubation, fracture, or surgery. The interpretation of these data is based upon the tested assumption that infection prolongs healing of injured tissue and predisposes to scar and stricture formation. Therefore, the ability of control stomal contamination by the judicious use of topical or systemic antibiotics may play an important role in the prevention of complications in an organ functionally by-passed by the tracheostomy cannula.", "PMID": 449531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9058", "title": "Histopathology of congenital subglottic stenosis.", "content": "Three patients with congenital subglottic stenosis are presented and whole organ serial-section studies of their larynges are discussed. A superiorly displaced first tracheal ring is observed to form a cartilaginous subglottic stenosis in one. This \"trapped first ring\" is demonstrated in horizontal, sagittal and coronal planes. Subglottic stenosis is a clinical diagnosis which describes multifarious histopathological forms of narrowing within the subglottic larynx.", "contents": "Histopathology of congenital subglottic stenosis. Three patients with congenital subglottic stenosis are presented and whole organ serial-section studies of their larynges are discussed. A superiorly displaced first tracheal ring is observed to form a cartilaginous subglottic stenosis in one. This \"trapped first ring\" is demonstrated in horizontal, sagittal and coronal planes. Subglottic stenosis is a clinical diagnosis which describes multifarious histopathological forms of narrowing within the subglottic larynx.", "PMID": 449532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9059", "title": "Sleep apnea syndrome associated with upper airway obstruction.", "content": "A working protocol is presented which has developed to help the clinician in the diagnosis and management of patients suffering from the sleep apnea syndrome associated with various types of upper airway obstruction.", "contents": "Sleep apnea syndrome associated with upper airway obstruction. A working protocol is presented which has developed to help the clinician in the diagnosis and management of patients suffering from the sleep apnea syndrome associated with various types of upper airway obstruction.", "PMID": 449533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9060", "title": "Acoustic neuroma surgery with emphasis on preservation of hearing.", "content": "A review is presented of 34 cerebellopontine angle tumors surgically removed between 1973 and 1978 by the author at the New York University Medical Center. A diagnostic protocol is outlined: An acoustic PEG (small volume pneumoencephalogram with polytomography) is utilized where a medium to large tumor is suspected, and a Pantopaque fossagram for the smaller tumors. Indications are given for the middle fossa, translabyrinthine and suboccipital approaches, depending on tumor size and level of hearing. Hearing was successfully preserved at or near the preoperative level in 3 of 6 extracanalicular tumors operated upon using the suboccipital microsurgical approach. Audiometric data are given, demonstrating the preservation of hearing. The surgical technique is described. There were no fatalities in the entire series. The incidence of permanent facial nerve palsy was 8%. Nerve palsy occurred in large tumors only.", "contents": "Acoustic neuroma surgery with emphasis on preservation of hearing. A review is presented of 34 cerebellopontine angle tumors surgically removed between 1973 and 1978 by the author at the New York University Medical Center. A diagnostic protocol is outlined: An acoustic PEG (small volume pneumoencephalogram with polytomography) is utilized where a medium to large tumor is suspected, and a Pantopaque fossagram for the smaller tumors. Indications are given for the middle fossa, translabyrinthine and suboccipital approaches, depending on tumor size and level of hearing. Hearing was successfully preserved at or near the preoperative level in 3 of 6 extracanalicular tumors operated upon using the suboccipital microsurgical approach. Audiometric data are given, demonstrating the preservation of hearing. The surgical technique is described. There were no fatalities in the entire series. The incidence of permanent facial nerve palsy was 8%. Nerve palsy occurred in large tumors only.", "PMID": 449534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9061", "title": "Transoral management of localized carcinoma of the oral cavity using the CO2 laser.", "content": "Since 1972 we have been cautiously exploring the use of CO2 laser in the management of carefully selected cases of localized carcinoma of the oral cavity. At the present time our experience is based on the treatment of 57 patients with cancer of the oral cavity. The CO2 laser has been found to be an indispensable tool in the transoral management of T1 carcinomas, multiple superficial carcinoma, extensive leukoplakia and verrucous carcinoma. The laser allows precise excision of the lesion and involved mucosa and provides and excellent specimen for histologic verification of the margins. The morbidity of laser excision is minimal, so that a tracheotomy is not needed and patients can almost always be discharged on the following day. (Follow-up data on those patients at risk for 30 months indicate excellent control rates).", "contents": "Transoral management of localized carcinoma of the oral cavity using the CO2 laser. Since 1972 we have been cautiously exploring the use of CO2 laser in the management of carefully selected cases of localized carcinoma of the oral cavity. At the present time our experience is based on the treatment of 57 patients with cancer of the oral cavity. The CO2 laser has been found to be an indispensable tool in the transoral management of T1 carcinomas, multiple superficial carcinoma, extensive leukoplakia and verrucous carcinoma. The laser allows precise excision of the lesion and involved mucosa and provides and excellent specimen for histologic verification of the margins. The morbidity of laser excision is minimal, so that a tracheotomy is not needed and patients can almost always be discharged on the following day. (Follow-up data on those patients at risk for 30 months indicate excellent control rates).", "PMID": 449535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9062", "title": "Combined otoneurosurgical approach to patients with chronic ear disease and cerebrospinal otorrhea.", "content": "We report a combined otoneurosurgical approach in the treatment of a patient with meningitis due to an arachnoid cyst, extending through the dura and petrous bone into the middle ear. The combination of mastoid surgery and temporal craniotomy including opening the dura was necessary to determine the nature of the problem, excise the disease and repair the defects. Two recent cases at our Institution of cerebrospinal otorhinorrhea and chronic ear disease illustrate the difficulty in carrying out definitive repair of dural defects from within the mastoid cavity. Case 2 had three bouts of meningitis and two brain abscesses separated by 25 years. Case 3 had eight bouts of meningitis in 19 years. The authors recommend at otoneurosurgical team approach in patients with cerebrospinal otorhinorrhea permitting treatment of the temporal bone, dura and brain.", "contents": "Combined otoneurosurgical approach to patients with chronic ear disease and cerebrospinal otorrhea. We report a combined otoneurosurgical approach in the treatment of a patient with meningitis due to an arachnoid cyst, extending through the dura and petrous bone into the middle ear. The combination of mastoid surgery and temporal craniotomy including opening the dura was necessary to determine the nature of the problem, excise the disease and repair the defects. Two recent cases at our Institution of cerebrospinal otorhinorrhea and chronic ear disease illustrate the difficulty in carrying out definitive repair of dural defects from within the mastoid cavity. Case 2 had three bouts of meningitis and two brain abscesses separated by 25 years. Case 3 had eight bouts of meningitis in 19 years. The authors recommend at otoneurosurgical team approach in patients with cerebrospinal otorhinorrhea permitting treatment of the temporal bone, dura and brain.", "PMID": 449536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9063", "title": "The otolaryngologic presentation of myasthenia gravis.", "content": "Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disease of insidious onset, characterized by weakness and fatigability of voluntary muscles. Most patients present with symptoms relating to the head and neck and thus may be seen first by the otolaryngologist. Predominant symptoms may be ocular (ptosis or diplopia) or related to fatigue of the oropharyngeal or laryngeal musculature (dysarthria, dysphonia, or dysphagia). Alleviation of muscular weakness and fatigability after administration of anticholinesterase drugs is pathognomonic of myasthenia gravis.", "contents": "The otolaryngologic presentation of myasthenia gravis. Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disease of insidious onset, characterized by weakness and fatigability of voluntary muscles. Most patients present with symptoms relating to the head and neck and thus may be seen first by the otolaryngologist. Predominant symptoms may be ocular (ptosis or diplopia) or related to fatigue of the oropharyngeal or laryngeal musculature (dysarthria, dysphonia, or dysphagia). Alleviation of muscular weakness and fatigability after administration of anticholinesterase drugs is pathognomonic of myasthenia gravis.", "PMID": 449537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9064", "title": "Relapsing polychondritis--report of ten cases.", "content": "Relapsing polychondritis is a rare disease of unknown etiology. There are approximately 211 reported cases in the world literature. This is a report of ten cases from the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. McAdam's diagnostic criteria for R.P. were reviewed and modified. For diagnosis, all patients had to have 1. at least three or more diagnostic criteria, histologic confirmation not necessary; 2. one or more of McAdam's signs with positive histologic confirmation; or 3. chondritis in two or more separate anatomic locations with response to steroids and/or Dapsone. Chondritis of the auricles (9/10 patients) and arthropathy (8/10 patients) are the most common presenting signs. Chondritis was also seen in the nose (6/10) and the upper respiratory tract involving the larynx and trachea (4/10). Cochlear and vestibular damage and ocular inflammation were each seen in 5/10 patients. Patients were treated with steroids and/or Dapsone. Both drugs were reliable in abating episodes of activity and in decreasing recurrences. These results further support Dapsone as an alternate form of treatment for RP.", "contents": "Relapsing polychondritis--report of ten cases. Relapsing polychondritis is a rare disease of unknown etiology. There are approximately 211 reported cases in the world literature. This is a report of ten cases from the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. McAdam's diagnostic criteria for R.P. were reviewed and modified. For diagnosis, all patients had to have 1. at least three or more diagnostic criteria, histologic confirmation not necessary; 2. one or more of McAdam's signs with positive histologic confirmation; or 3. chondritis in two or more separate anatomic locations with response to steroids and/or Dapsone. Chondritis of the auricles (9/10 patients) and arthropathy (8/10 patients) are the most common presenting signs. Chondritis was also seen in the nose (6/10) and the upper respiratory tract involving the larynx and trachea (4/10). Cochlear and vestibular damage and ocular inflammation were each seen in 5/10 patients. Patients were treated with steroids and/or Dapsone. Both drugs were reliable in abating episodes of activity and in decreasing recurrences. These results further support Dapsone as an alternate form of treatment for RP.", "PMID": 449538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9065", "title": "Orbital-facial complications of sinusitis in children.", "content": "Although complications of sinusitis in children have lessened remarkably since and advent of antibiotics, nevertheless they still occur. In a 25-year period at the Hospital for Sick Children, 6,770 patients with the diagnosis of sinusitis were reviewed and 159 of these had orbital-facial complications. Surgical intervention was necessary in 17 to prevent more serious complications. Although there were no deaths in non-malignant disease, two patients developed permanent optic atrophy, presumably because of delayed surgical drainage. On occasion, malignant disease may simulate inflammatory processes.", "contents": "Orbital-facial complications of sinusitis in children. Although complications of sinusitis in children have lessened remarkably since and advent of antibiotics, nevertheless they still occur. In a 25-year period at the Hospital for Sick Children, 6,770 patients with the diagnosis of sinusitis were reviewed and 159 of these had orbital-facial complications. Surgical intervention was necessary in 17 to prevent more serious complications. Although there were no deaths in non-malignant disease, two patients developed permanent optic atrophy, presumably because of delayed surgical drainage. On occasion, malignant disease may simulate inflammatory processes.", "PMID": 449539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9066", "title": "Negative pressure in the middle ear by ciliary propulsion of mucus through the eustachian tube.", "content": "Mucus was placed in the middle ears of 11 cats. A needle and stop-clock placed in the bulla communicated with the tympanic cavity. The pressure changes in the needle were transcribed on a flowing graph via a transducer in communication with the stop-clock. Negative pressure developed in each test ear. The average maximum negative pressure was 12 mm Hg with a minimum of 2 mm Hg and maximum of 24 mm Hg. The peak negative pressure, reached in 30 to 60 min. in most ears, occurred in 10 min. in one and in 3 hrs. in another. The qualitative results show all ears developed a negative pressure when mucus was in the tympanic cavity. The quantitative data suggest an average maximum negative pressure of 12 mm Hg reached at about 1 hr.", "contents": "Negative pressure in the middle ear by ciliary propulsion of mucus through the eustachian tube. Mucus was placed in the middle ears of 11 cats. A needle and stop-clock placed in the bulla communicated with the tympanic cavity. The pressure changes in the needle were transcribed on a flowing graph via a transducer in communication with the stop-clock. Negative pressure developed in each test ear. The average maximum negative pressure was 12 mm Hg with a minimum of 2 mm Hg and maximum of 24 mm Hg. The peak negative pressure, reached in 30 to 60 min. in most ears, occurred in 10 min. in one and in 3 hrs. in another. The qualitative results show all ears developed a negative pressure when mucus was in the tympanic cavity. The quantitative data suggest an average maximum negative pressure of 12 mm Hg reached at about 1 hr.", "PMID": 449540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9067", "title": "A new permanent tracheostomy tube--speech valve system.", "content": "A permanent tracheostoma is often necessary in patients with respiratory diseases such as severe bronchial asthma or chronic bronchitis in order to reduce dead space. Another group of patients who require a permanent tracheostoma are those with laryngeal stenosis or bilateral vocal cord pareses whose general condition makes them unsuitable candidates for more advanced surgical procedures. This has usually been achieved by a conventional tracheostomy tube which, however, carries many problems; the ability to cough is greatly reduced when a sufficient intra-abdominal pressure cannot be acquired, speech is impaired, the tube has to be changed regularly, it must be fixed by bands around the neck, etc. These problems can be significantly reduced by using a short, straight tube placed in the stoma and kept securely in position by an outer flange and four flaps on the tracheal side. To this tube is attached a special two-way valve adjustable for either inspiration and expiration or for inspiration only in which case it also serves as a speech valve. Up to now this construction has been used in 16 patients with excellent results, one patient has had this device continuously since 1970 without any complications.", "contents": "A new permanent tracheostomy tube--speech valve system. A permanent tracheostoma is often necessary in patients with respiratory diseases such as severe bronchial asthma or chronic bronchitis in order to reduce dead space. Another group of patients who require a permanent tracheostoma are those with laryngeal stenosis or bilateral vocal cord pareses whose general condition makes them unsuitable candidates for more advanced surgical procedures. This has usually been achieved by a conventional tracheostomy tube which, however, carries many problems; the ability to cough is greatly reduced when a sufficient intra-abdominal pressure cannot be acquired, speech is impaired, the tube has to be changed regularly, it must be fixed by bands around the neck, etc. These problems can be significantly reduced by using a short, straight tube placed in the stoma and kept securely in position by an outer flange and four flaps on the tracheal side. To this tube is attached a special two-way valve adjustable for either inspiration and expiration or for inspiration only in which case it also serves as a speech valve. Up to now this construction has been used in 16 patients with excellent results, one patient has had this device continuously since 1970 without any complications.", "PMID": 449541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9068", "title": "Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia of the external ear, middle ear, and mastoid.", "content": "A case of pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia involving the external, middle ear, and mastoid air cells and labyrinth resulting from long standing irrigations with alcohol is described for the first time.", "contents": "Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia of the external ear, middle ear, and mastoid. A case of pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia involving the external, middle ear, and mastoid air cells and labyrinth resulting from long standing irrigations with alcohol is described for the first time.", "PMID": 449542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9069", "title": "Multiple malignancies in patients with primary carcinomas of the head and neck.", "content": "Eight hundred and twenty-five patients with primary carcinomas of the head and neck area were studied. Of these, there were 54 individuals with multiple primary neoplasms. Synchronous lesions occurred in 19 patients while nonsynchronous lesions occurred in 35. The frequency of occurrence of second neoplasms was 6.5%, which nearly doubles that of previously recorded series. A conclusion which can be made from this study is that, as long as the carcinogenic agent (alcohol and/or tobacco) continues to be present, the patient will continue to be affected.", "contents": "Multiple malignancies in patients with primary carcinomas of the head and neck. Eight hundred and twenty-five patients with primary carcinomas of the head and neck area were studied. Of these, there were 54 individuals with multiple primary neoplasms. Synchronous lesions occurred in 19 patients while nonsynchronous lesions occurred in 35. The frequency of occurrence of second neoplasms was 6.5%, which nearly doubles that of previously recorded series. A conclusion which can be made from this study is that, as long as the carcinogenic agent (alcohol and/or tobacco) continues to be present, the patient will continue to be affected.", "PMID": 449543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9070", "title": "Brain stem evoked response audiometry in a clinical practice.", "content": "Brain stem evoked response audiometry (BERA) is an effective method of evaluating the auditory pathway from the peripheral endorgan through the brain stem. The authors have found this test to be a valuable adjunct to the neurotologic evaluation and have applied the study to over 500 patients (639 ears) in a 22 month time span. BERA has an excellent success rate (98%) in determining the presence of cerebellopontine angle lesions and is helpful in establishing whether a hearing loss is of cochlear or retrocochlear type. The authors have found BERA of use in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis as well as other neurologic diseases affecting the brain stem. It is a valid method of dealing with suspected malingerers and those who cannot respond to standard audiometric techniques. BERA has been helpful in determining the threshold of hearing in these patients. The authors conclude that BERA is a clinical study of practical significance and that more otolaryngologists should consider adding it to their diagnostic protocol.", "contents": "Brain stem evoked response audiometry in a clinical practice. Brain stem evoked response audiometry (BERA) is an effective method of evaluating the auditory pathway from the peripheral endorgan through the brain stem. The authors have found this test to be a valuable adjunct to the neurotologic evaluation and have applied the study to over 500 patients (639 ears) in a 22 month time span. BERA has an excellent success rate (98%) in determining the presence of cerebellopontine angle lesions and is helpful in establishing whether a hearing loss is of cochlear or retrocochlear type. The authors have found BERA of use in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis as well as other neurologic diseases affecting the brain stem. It is a valid method of dealing with suspected malingerers and those who cannot respond to standard audiometric techniques. BERA has been helpful in determining the threshold of hearing in these patients. The authors conclude that BERA is a clinical study of practical significance and that more otolaryngologists should consider adding it to their diagnostic protocol.", "PMID": 449545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9071", "title": "The normal nystagmic response of infants to caloric and perrotatory stimulation.", "content": "Infants (276) were tested with perrotatory and caloric vestibular stimulation at 3-month intervals, from birth till 12 months of age and at 6-month intervals from 12 to 24 months. They were grouped by gestational age and weight at birth. Statistical analyses of the various features of the nystagmus obtained at different ages were performed. Premature and low weight infants were found to have the longest latency and smallest frequency, amplitude and speed of slow component during the first 6 months. As they matured, the latency of response became shorter while the other parameters increased. Complete maturation of responses was attained in all infants within 6 to 12 months of age. Standards for normal vestibular responses in infants up to 24 months of age are set in this study.", "contents": "The normal nystagmic response of infants to caloric and perrotatory stimulation. Infants (276) were tested with perrotatory and caloric vestibular stimulation at 3-month intervals, from birth till 12 months of age and at 6-month intervals from 12 to 24 months. They were grouped by gestational age and weight at birth. Statistical analyses of the various features of the nystagmus obtained at different ages were performed. Premature and low weight infants were found to have the longest latency and smallest frequency, amplitude and speed of slow component during the first 6 months. As they matured, the latency of response became shorter while the other parameters increased. Complete maturation of responses was attained in all infants within 6 to 12 months of age. Standards for normal vestibular responses in infants up to 24 months of age are set in this study.", "PMID": 449546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9072", "title": "The accuracy of the simultaneous binaural bithermal test in the diagnosis of acoustic neuroma.", "content": "Forty-three patients with a surgically confirmed unilateral acoustic neuroma were studied preoperatively with both alternate and simultaneous binaural bithermal caloric tests using horizontal lead electronystagmography. Twenty-four patients had a significant reduced vestibular response on the side of the tumor utilizing the alternate binaural bithermal calorization of Fitzgerald-Hallpike. The addition of the simultaneous binaural bithermal stimulus improved the diagnostic accuracy of caloric testing from 56% to 86%. The simultaneous test was of particular accuracy in diagnosing the inferior vestibular nerve neuroma. The simultaneous stimulus, which adds only six and one-half minutes to overall testing time, is felt to be a valuable adjunct to the alternate test of Fitzgerald-Hallpike.", "contents": "The accuracy of the simultaneous binaural bithermal test in the diagnosis of acoustic neuroma. Forty-three patients with a surgically confirmed unilateral acoustic neuroma were studied preoperatively with both alternate and simultaneous binaural bithermal caloric tests using horizontal lead electronystagmography. Twenty-four patients had a significant reduced vestibular response on the side of the tumor utilizing the alternate binaural bithermal calorization of Fitzgerald-Hallpike. The addition of the simultaneous binaural bithermal stimulus improved the diagnostic accuracy of caloric testing from 56% to 86%. The simultaneous test was of particular accuracy in diagnosing the inferior vestibular nerve neuroma. The simultaneous stimulus, which adds only six and one-half minutes to overall testing time, is felt to be a valuable adjunct to the alternate test of Fitzgerald-Hallpike.", "PMID": 449547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9073", "title": "Long-term effect of otosclerosis on bone conduction.", "content": "There have not been many studies of long-term sensorineural function in otosclerosis. The reports of long-term follow-up of lateral canal fenestration cases show a surprising stability of bone conduction. Because the experience of the senior author in stapes surgery suggests that some patients with clinically proven otosclerosis have a tendency for progression of sensorineural hearing loss, a review of over 500 ears in patients with proven otosclerosis was undertaken. Data from the study indicate that patients with otosclerosis have more sensorineural hearing loss than the general population. Also some otosclerotic ears have a tendency for progression of sensorineural hearing loss.", "contents": "Long-term effect of otosclerosis on bone conduction. There have not been many studies of long-term sensorineural function in otosclerosis. The reports of long-term follow-up of lateral canal fenestration cases show a surprising stability of bone conduction. Because the experience of the senior author in stapes surgery suggests that some patients with clinically proven otosclerosis have a tendency for progression of sensorineural hearing loss, a review of over 500 ears in patients with proven otosclerosis was undertaken. Data from the study indicate that patients with otosclerosis have more sensorineural hearing loss than the general population. Also some otosclerotic ears have a tendency for progression of sensorineural hearing loss.", "PMID": 449548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9074", "title": "Current attitudes of laryngectomy patients.", "content": "Improved surgical techniques and adjunctive therapeutic measures are producing more long-term survivors of laryngeal carcinoma and facilitating voice preservation through the methods of conservation surgery; however, when surgery includes total laryngectomy, prolonged rehabilitation involving many disciplines may help patients to adjust to many new aspects of their daily lives and to avoid the severe depression which may attend this procedure. In order to evaluate the program currently in use at our institution and to provide suggestions for developing and improving rehabilitative programs, we have used interviews and questionnaires to study 60 laryngectomy patients. The study focused on the patients' attitudes and their impressions of the adequacy of the preoperative and postoperative visits by physicians, speech pathologists, nurses, social workers, and other members of the therapy team.", "contents": "Current attitudes of laryngectomy patients. Improved surgical techniques and adjunctive therapeutic measures are producing more long-term survivors of laryngeal carcinoma and facilitating voice preservation through the methods of conservation surgery; however, when surgery includes total laryngectomy, prolonged rehabilitation involving many disciplines may help patients to adjust to many new aspects of their daily lives and to avoid the severe depression which may attend this procedure. In order to evaluate the program currently in use at our institution and to provide suggestions for developing and improving rehabilitative programs, we have used interviews and questionnaires to study 60 laryngectomy patients. The study focused on the patients' attitudes and their impressions of the adequacy of the preoperative and postoperative visits by physicians, speech pathologists, nurses, social workers, and other members of the therapy team.", "PMID": 449549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9075", "title": "A clinical-radiographic classification of skull base lesions.", "content": "Lesions involving the base of the skull can be divided into primary and secondary disease processes. The primary group consists of bone lesions more often seen elsewhere in the skeletal system while the secondary group consist of those lesions extending to the base of the skull by direct extension from adjacent intracranial or extracranial sites. The purpose of this paper will be to arrive at a classification of skull base lesions based on the roentgen localization of the disease process. The base of the skull because of its anatomically variable curvature can be difficult to evaluate on good quality conventional radiographs. In addition to the changing angles of the bone itself, the overlying soft tissues of the pharynx and neck only serve to further conceal areas of bone pathology. The advent of polytomography and CAT scanning has greatly aided the evaluation of this region which clinically is extremely difficult to assess. In some instances invasive modalities such as angiography and posterior fossa myelography are necessary to define the lesion. With these diagnostic methods available, rather than discovering classical patterns of disease, a variety of disease processes have been found that radiographically mimic each other. Similarly, on a purely clinical basis, many of the disease entities present in a similar fashion. It is only by a combined approach that an intelligent differential diagnosis can be offered.", "contents": "A clinical-radiographic classification of skull base lesions. Lesions involving the base of the skull can be divided into primary and secondary disease processes. The primary group consists of bone lesions more often seen elsewhere in the skeletal system while the secondary group consist of those lesions extending to the base of the skull by direct extension from adjacent intracranial or extracranial sites. The purpose of this paper will be to arrive at a classification of skull base lesions based on the roentgen localization of the disease process. The base of the skull because of its anatomically variable curvature can be difficult to evaluate on good quality conventional radiographs. In addition to the changing angles of the bone itself, the overlying soft tissues of the pharynx and neck only serve to further conceal areas of bone pathology. The advent of polytomography and CAT scanning has greatly aided the evaluation of this region which clinically is extremely difficult to assess. In some instances invasive modalities such as angiography and posterior fossa myelography are necessary to define the lesion. With these diagnostic methods available, rather than discovering classical patterns of disease, a variety of disease processes have been found that radiographically mimic each other. Similarly, on a purely clinical basis, many of the disease entities present in a similar fashion. It is only by a combined approach that an intelligent differential diagnosis can be offered.", "PMID": 449550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9076", "title": "Anterior skull base surgery for benign and malignant disease.", "content": "Teamwork between the head and neck surgeon and the neurosurgeon utilizing the craniofacial resection technique greatly extends the frontiers of surgery for tumors of the anterior half of the skull base. Tumors for which this technique may be used include benign and malignant tumors arising in the frontal bone or frontal sinus, nasal vault, ethmoid, maxilla, sphenoid or orbit. Selected nasopharyngeal lesions such as angiofibromas with anterior or middle fossa extensions and sphenoid or clival chordomas may also be approached in this manner. This report evaluates the surgical techniques currently in use for managing these tumors, by discussing the benefits of combined resection, technical modifications of the techniques, and the results of using these techniques in 12 patients. The initial results are encouraging.", "contents": "Anterior skull base surgery for benign and malignant disease. Teamwork between the head and neck surgeon and the neurosurgeon utilizing the craniofacial resection technique greatly extends the frontiers of surgery for tumors of the anterior half of the skull base. Tumors for which this technique may be used include benign and malignant tumors arising in the frontal bone or frontal sinus, nasal vault, ethmoid, maxilla, sphenoid or orbit. Selected nasopharyngeal lesions such as angiofibromas with anterior or middle fossa extensions and sphenoid or clival chordomas may also be approached in this manner. This report evaluates the surgical techniques currently in use for managing these tumors, by discussing the benefits of combined resection, technical modifications of the techniques, and the results of using these techniques in 12 patients. The initial results are encouraging.", "PMID": 449551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9077", "title": "Malignant potential of keratoacanthoma.", "content": "Keratoacanthoma is generally considered to be a benign cutaneous lesion with initial rapid growth and spontaneous involution over several months. It is not generally appreciated that the keratoacanthoma may have a malignant potential or be associated with carcinoma. When a lesion diagnosed as keratoacanthoma recurs after excision, underlying malignancy must be considered. Four examples of keratoacanthoma associated with underlying malignancy are presented from the Ochsner Medical Institutions to emphasize the above points.", "contents": "Malignant potential of keratoacanthoma. Keratoacanthoma is generally considered to be a benign cutaneous lesion with initial rapid growth and spontaneous involution over several months. It is not generally appreciated that the keratoacanthoma may have a malignant potential or be associated with carcinoma. When a lesion diagnosed as keratoacanthoma recurs after excision, underlying malignancy must be considered. Four examples of keratoacanthoma associated with underlying malignancy are presented from the Ochsner Medical Institutions to emphasize the above points.", "PMID": 449552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9078", "title": "Solitary frontal sinus fracture.", "content": "Both the anterior and/or posterior wall of the frontal sinus as well as the nasofrontal duct may be injured by blunt force, commonly secondary to automobile accidents. In this group of 13 solitary frontal sinus fractures, the anterior wall was involved in all cases, and the posterior wall in 2. Antibiotic therapy was given to prevent anticipated infection. Comminuted or depressed fractures of the anterior wall were treated by elevation and/or wiring. Surgical treatment was not employed when there was a linear fracture of the anterior wall in good alignment. Posterior wall fragments were removed and periosteal flaps used to close the defect when the dura was intact. One case required neurosurgical treatment for a dural tear and necrotic frontal lobe cortex.", "contents": "Solitary frontal sinus fracture. Both the anterior and/or posterior wall of the frontal sinus as well as the nasofrontal duct may be injured by blunt force, commonly secondary to automobile accidents. In this group of 13 solitary frontal sinus fractures, the anterior wall was involved in all cases, and the posterior wall in 2. Antibiotic therapy was given to prevent anticipated infection. Comminuted or depressed fractures of the anterior wall were treated by elevation and/or wiring. Surgical treatment was not employed when there was a linear fracture of the anterior wall in good alignment. Posterior wall fragments were removed and periosteal flaps used to close the defect when the dura was intact. One case required neurosurgical treatment for a dural tear and necrotic frontal lobe cortex.", "PMID": 449553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9079", "title": "Stomal recurrences: a clinicopathological analysis and protocol for future management.", "content": "From 1965 to 1975, 452 total laryngectomies were performed at the Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, Mo. During this period, 33 stomal recurrences were diagnosed. These are clinicopathologically analyzed with regard to tumor size, site, histopathology and original surgical procedure. An association with transglottic tumors, emergency tracheotomy and, surprisingly, hemilaryngectomy is noted. Three theories of etiology are discussed. Since treatment to date is disappointing, several proposed methods of prophylaxis are presented. These include emergency laryngectomy, recurrent laryngeal lymphatic dissection and postoperative radiotherapy. The role of wide local excision and mediastinal dissection is also examined. Based upon the analysis and the proposed methods of prophylaxis, a protocol is suggested for the future management of this dreaded complication.", "contents": "Stomal recurrences: a clinicopathological analysis and protocol for future management. From 1965 to 1975, 452 total laryngectomies were performed at the Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, Mo. During this period, 33 stomal recurrences were diagnosed. These are clinicopathologically analyzed with regard to tumor size, site, histopathology and original surgical procedure. An association with transglottic tumors, emergency tracheotomy and, surprisingly, hemilaryngectomy is noted. Three theories of etiology are discussed. Since treatment to date is disappointing, several proposed methods of prophylaxis are presented. These include emergency laryngectomy, recurrent laryngeal lymphatic dissection and postoperative radiotherapy. The role of wide local excision and mediastinal dissection is also examined. Based upon the analysis and the proposed methods of prophylaxis, a protocol is suggested for the future management of this dreaded complication.", "PMID": 449554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9080", "title": "Bacteriology and treatment of chronic otitis media.", "content": "Tympanocentesis was performed in 50 patients with chronic otitis media. Pus was cultured aerobically and anaerobically. Aerobes only were isolated from 21 patients, 3 had only anaerobes (peptococcus sp.) and 26 had both aerobes and anaerobes. There were 68 aerobic isolates. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was recovered in 36 (72%). Other aerobes commonly recovered included proteus sp. and Staphylococcus aureus. There were 48 anaerobes isolated. Anaerobic gram positive cocci were isolated in 24 instances. Sixteen Bacteriodes sp. were recovered, including 7 B. fragilis and 6 B. melaninogenicus. The patients were divided into two groups according to their antimicrobial therapy: 28 received carbenicillin and 22 clindamycin. An aminoglycoside was added when aerobic enteric gram negative rods were present in significantly high numbers in the culture. There was good to excellent response to therapy in more than half of the patients and in 12% there was a remission from symptoms for up to one year. Thirty-six percent of the patients had no response to therapy. There were no statistical differences in response to therapy in the two groups treated. Antimicrobial therapy directed against aerobic and anaerobic isolates from chronic otitis media had a high success rate in complete eradication of the infection.", "contents": "Bacteriology and treatment of chronic otitis media. Tympanocentesis was performed in 50 patients with chronic otitis media. Pus was cultured aerobically and anaerobically. Aerobes only were isolated from 21 patients, 3 had only anaerobes (peptococcus sp.) and 26 had both aerobes and anaerobes. There were 68 aerobic isolates. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was recovered in 36 (72%). Other aerobes commonly recovered included proteus sp. and Staphylococcus aureus. There were 48 anaerobes isolated. Anaerobic gram positive cocci were isolated in 24 instances. Sixteen Bacteriodes sp. were recovered, including 7 B. fragilis and 6 B. melaninogenicus. The patients were divided into two groups according to their antimicrobial therapy: 28 received carbenicillin and 22 clindamycin. An aminoglycoside was added when aerobic enteric gram negative rods were present in significantly high numbers in the culture. There was good to excellent response to therapy in more than half of the patients and in 12% there was a remission from symptoms for up to one year. Thirty-six percent of the patients had no response to therapy. There were no statistical differences in response to therapy in the two groups treated. Antimicrobial therapy directed against aerobic and anaerobic isolates from chronic otitis media had a high success rate in complete eradication of the infection.", "PMID": 449555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9081", "title": "Luetic hydrops--diagnosis and therapy.", "content": "Nine patients presenting at the Shea Clinic over the past eight years with a history of fluctuant hearing loss were subsequently found to have neurosyphilis. Treatment has consisted of penicillin, given by various routes, oral steroids and vasodilator therapy. We have, based on recent investigations, begun using high dose intravenous penicillin in this regimen. Results have been encouraging in two patients, with rapid improvement in hearing. A protocol outline for diagnosis and therapy of syphilis is included in the discussion.", "contents": "Luetic hydrops--diagnosis and therapy. Nine patients presenting at the Shea Clinic over the past eight years with a history of fluctuant hearing loss were subsequently found to have neurosyphilis. Treatment has consisted of penicillin, given by various routes, oral steroids and vasodilator therapy. We have, based on recent investigations, begun using high dose intravenous penicillin in this regimen. Results have been encouraging in two patients, with rapid improvement in hearing. A protocol outline for diagnosis and therapy of syphilis is included in the discussion.", "PMID": 449556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9082", "title": "Lymphocytes, neutrophils and serum immunoglobulins in patients with precancerous states of the larynx.", "content": "In 24 men aged 32 to 58 years with precancerous states of the larynx, i.e., leukoplakia, papillomas and pachydermia the peripheral blood lymphocytes were cytochemically stained for N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucuronidase, acid phosphatase and glycogen; and the neutrophils were stained for alkaline phosphatase, myeloperoxidase and lipids. The results were expressed in terms of the absolute counts of reaction-positive cells and of the activity index score. The serum immunoglobulins IgG, IgA and IgM were also determined by Mancini's method. The results obtained were compared with those in 20 healthy men aged 20 to 30 years. The patients exhibited elevated numbers of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase and beta-glucuronidase-positive lymphocytes. A characteristic feature was an increase in the absolute counts of lymphocytes with diffuse and granular-diffuse types of cytochemical reaction for all enzymes studied. The number of cells with the granular type of enzymatic reaction (intact enzyme-positive lysosomes) was significantly diminished. These cytochemical alterations were accompanied by a significant increase in the serum IgA level. These results are discussed with reference to the lymphoid system response to tissues of precancerous lesions of the larynx. So far as the neutrophils are concerned the patients exhibited significant intracellular deficiency of beta-glucuronidase and decrease in the lipid content as well as an elevated alkaline phosphatase activity. The possible significance of the beta-glucuronidase deficiency in neutrophils for the diminished cytotoxic response of these cells against the tumor and precancerous lesion cells is discussed.", "contents": "Lymphocytes, neutrophils and serum immunoglobulins in patients with precancerous states of the larynx. In 24 men aged 32 to 58 years with precancerous states of the larynx, i.e., leukoplakia, papillomas and pachydermia the peripheral blood lymphocytes were cytochemically stained for N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucuronidase, acid phosphatase and glycogen; and the neutrophils were stained for alkaline phosphatase, myeloperoxidase and lipids. The results were expressed in terms of the absolute counts of reaction-positive cells and of the activity index score. The serum immunoglobulins IgG, IgA and IgM were also determined by Mancini's method. The results obtained were compared with those in 20 healthy men aged 20 to 30 years. The patients exhibited elevated numbers of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase and beta-glucuronidase-positive lymphocytes. A characteristic feature was an increase in the absolute counts of lymphocytes with diffuse and granular-diffuse types of cytochemical reaction for all enzymes studied. The number of cells with the granular type of enzymatic reaction (intact enzyme-positive lysosomes) was significantly diminished. These cytochemical alterations were accompanied by a significant increase in the serum IgA level. These results are discussed with reference to the lymphoid system response to tissues of precancerous lesions of the larynx. So far as the neutrophils are concerned the patients exhibited significant intracellular deficiency of beta-glucuronidase and decrease in the lipid content as well as an elevated alkaline phosphatase activity. The possible significance of the beta-glucuronidase deficiency in neutrophils for the diminished cytotoxic response of these cells against the tumor and precancerous lesion cells is discussed.", "PMID": 449557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9083", "title": "Brain stem auditory evoked potentials in patients with congenital atresia.", "content": "The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the value of the brain stem auditory evoked response in the definitive assessment of newborn and older infants with congenital malformations of the auditory system. Clinical cases selected illustrate the methodology required in the evaluation and demonstrate how the technique can facilitate immediate and appropriate medical and habilitative services.", "contents": "Brain stem auditory evoked potentials in patients with congenital atresia. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the value of the brain stem auditory evoked response in the definitive assessment of newborn and older infants with congenital malformations of the auditory system. Clinical cases selected illustrate the methodology required in the evaluation and demonstrate how the technique can facilitate immediate and appropriate medical and habilitative services.", "PMID": 449558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9084", "title": "Congenital middle ear cholesteatoma: two unusual cases and a review of the literature.", "content": "Forty-three patients with congenital middle ear cholesteatoma have been described since the first case in 1953. In these patients ten cholesteatomas were confined to the anterior mesotympanum in young children who had no ossicular damage. Involvement of the posterior mesotympanum (8 ears), meso and epitympanum (21 ears), and antrum and middle ear (7 ears) was associated with an 81% incidence of ossicular erosion in addition to other abnormalities. Anterior mesotympanic cholesteatomas were readily identified by the appearance of a white mass behind a translucent drum. The other congenital cholesteatomas had a more varied appearance with a mass and a whitish appearance each noted in about half. In almost half there was a bulging of the TM. Two new cases are reported: a 4-year-old with an extensive epi and mesotympanic cholesteatoma initially misdiagnosed as non-suppurative otitis media and a 23-year-old with the third reported case of bilateral congenital cholesteatoma.", "contents": "Congenital middle ear cholesteatoma: two unusual cases and a review of the literature. Forty-three patients with congenital middle ear cholesteatoma have been described since the first case in 1953. In these patients ten cholesteatomas were confined to the anterior mesotympanum in young children who had no ossicular damage. Involvement of the posterior mesotympanum (8 ears), meso and epitympanum (21 ears), and antrum and middle ear (7 ears) was associated with an 81% incidence of ossicular erosion in addition to other abnormalities. Anterior mesotympanic cholesteatomas were readily identified by the appearance of a white mass behind a translucent drum. The other congenital cholesteatomas had a more varied appearance with a mass and a whitish appearance each noted in about half. In almost half there was a bulging of the TM. Two new cases are reported: a 4-year-old with an extensive epi and mesotympanic cholesteatoma initially misdiagnosed as non-suppurative otitis media and a 23-year-old with the third reported case of bilateral congenital cholesteatoma.", "PMID": 449559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9085", "title": "The coexistence of parathyroid adenoma and thyroid carcinoma.", "content": "Not well-known and inadequately understood is the high incidence of conexistent parathyroid adenoma and nonmedullary thyroid carcinoma. In a series of 144 patients with parathyroid adenoma, 11 (8%) were found to have concurrent thyroid carcinoma. Although similar to other multiple endocrine tumor syndromes, these two tumors have no common embryologic cell origin. The most likely explanation for this apparent relationship is the specific oncogenic effect of hypercalcemia on the thyroid gland.", "contents": "The coexistence of parathyroid adenoma and thyroid carcinoma. Not well-known and inadequately understood is the high incidence of conexistent parathyroid adenoma and nonmedullary thyroid carcinoma. In a series of 144 patients with parathyroid adenoma, 11 (8%) were found to have concurrent thyroid carcinoma. Although similar to other multiple endocrine tumor syndromes, these two tumors have no common embryologic cell origin. The most likely explanation for this apparent relationship is the specific oncogenic effect of hypercalcemia on the thyroid gland.", "PMID": 449560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9086", "title": "Endolymphatic sac valve implant surgery. I: The technique.", "content": "A resurgence of interest in surgery on the endolymphatic sac (ELS), not only for relief of vertigo but also for stabilization or improvement of hearing, has emerged. With the concept of operating early in the course of the disease after the diagnosis is well established, various modifications of existing procedures on the ELS have been utilized in an attempt to improve the overall results. One such major modification is the unidirectional inner ear valve implant modified from the eye valve for glaucoma. This valve implant has produced impressive one-year results for both hearing improvements and relief of vertigo in patients who were scheduled for labyrinthectomy. Subsequent preliminary reports by several investigators show good to excellent results for the hearing (AAOO--Class B or A) as well as the vertigo without consideration for the stage of the disease. This study presents primarily the step by step technique with drawings and a color atlas to facilitate the correct performance of this surgery.", "contents": "Endolymphatic sac valve implant surgery. I: The technique. A resurgence of interest in surgery on the endolymphatic sac (ELS), not only for relief of vertigo but also for stabilization or improvement of hearing, has emerged. With the concept of operating early in the course of the disease after the diagnosis is well established, various modifications of existing procedures on the ELS have been utilized in an attempt to improve the overall results. One such major modification is the unidirectional inner ear valve implant modified from the eye valve for glaucoma. This valve implant has produced impressive one-year results for both hearing improvements and relief of vertigo in patients who were scheduled for labyrinthectomy. Subsequent preliminary reports by several investigators show good to excellent results for the hearing (AAOO--Class B or A) as well as the vertigo without consideration for the stage of the disease. This study presents primarily the step by step technique with drawings and a color atlas to facilitate the correct performance of this surgery.", "PMID": 449564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9087", "title": "Endolymphatic sac valve implant surgery. II: The unidirectional inner ear valve implant.", "content": "A unidirectional inner ear valve implant was developed to direct excess endolymph out of the inner ear in the hydropic state (M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease) into the mastoid cavity. A detailed technical description of the valve implant is presented as well as some technical aspects of the valve implant based on the surgical anatomy of the endolymphatic sac.", "contents": "Endolymphatic sac valve implant surgery. II: The unidirectional inner ear valve implant. A unidirectional inner ear valve implant was developed to direct excess endolymph out of the inner ear in the hydropic state (M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease) into the mastoid cavity. A detailed technical description of the valve implant is presented as well as some technical aspects of the valve implant based on the surgical anatomy of the endolymphatic sac.", "PMID": 449565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9088", "title": "[Pathogenesis of the neonatal cholestasis syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "Cholestasis means reduced flow of bile between hepatocytes and duodenum. Functional as well as mechanical factors may be important in the pathogenesis of cholestatic syndromes. Extra- and intrahepatic cholestasis can be distinguished. Intrahepatic bile ducts use to be dilated in extrahepatic cholestasis after early infancy; they are however not dilated in obstructive jaundice of the newborn. Neonatal cholestatic syndromes caused by liver cell diseases may in addition cause an obstruction of extrahepatic bile ducts. At the present time most workers in the field do believe that extrahepatic cholestasis in the newborn is rather due to inflammation than to congenital malformation.", "contents": "[Pathogenesis of the neonatal cholestasis syndrome (author's transl)]. Cholestasis means reduced flow of bile between hepatocytes and duodenum. Functional as well as mechanical factors may be important in the pathogenesis of cholestatic syndromes. Extra- and intrahepatic cholestasis can be distinguished. Intrahepatic bile ducts use to be dilated in extrahepatic cholestasis after early infancy; they are however not dilated in obstructive jaundice of the newborn. Neonatal cholestatic syndromes caused by liver cell diseases may in addition cause an obstruction of extrahepatic bile ducts. At the present time most workers in the field do believe that extrahepatic cholestasis in the newborn is rather due to inflammation than to congenital malformation.", "PMID": 449570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9089", "title": "[Cholestasis in early infancy - histological findings (author's transl)].", "content": "Cholestasis in early infancy produces reactive alterations of liver parenchyma within the first weeks of life; histological examination of liver biopsy specimens may give hints as to the underlying disease. Differentiation of bile duct atresia and giant cell hepatitis at an early stage is especially important. Hyperplasia of the intrahepatic bile duct system can be due to rather different diseases. Congenital abnormalities of the duct system can be distinguished from reactive alterations only by early liver biopsy. Certain histological changes may give evidence of congenital or other metabolic disorders. Hemochromatosis of the neonatal period has been characterized morphologically but not as yet biochemically.", "contents": "[Cholestasis in early infancy - histological findings (author's transl)]. Cholestasis in early infancy produces reactive alterations of liver parenchyma within the first weeks of life; histological examination of liver biopsy specimens may give hints as to the underlying disease. Differentiation of bile duct atresia and giant cell hepatitis at an early stage is especially important. Hyperplasia of the intrahepatic bile duct system can be due to rather different diseases. Congenital abnormalities of the duct system can be distinguished from reactive alterations only by early liver biopsy. Certain histological changes may give evidence of congenital or other metabolic disorders. Hemochromatosis of the neonatal period has been characterized morphologically but not as yet biochemically.", "PMID": 449571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9090", "title": "[Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) in cholestatic syndromes of children and adolescents (author's transl)].", "content": "Conventional cholangiography had failed to establish a diagnosis in 5 children aged 6 weeks to 14 years and in 6 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years suffering from cholestasis; therefore endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) was performed, allowing to establish congenital biliary tract anomalies, cholelithiasis and benign obstruction of the extrahepatic biliary tract as causes of the cholestatic syndromes. Thus ERCP again turned out to be a valuable diagnostic procedure. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) using the Chiba technique has not yet been applied in infancy to a great extent. Application of PTC however should be considered as well in cholestasis. It cannot yet be decided, if ERCP or PTC is to be prefered in neonatal cholestasis; further investigations are needed to clear up this point.", "contents": "[Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) in cholestatic syndromes of children and adolescents (author's transl)]. Conventional cholangiography had failed to establish a diagnosis in 5 children aged 6 weeks to 14 years and in 6 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years suffering from cholestasis; therefore endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) was performed, allowing to establish congenital biliary tract anomalies, cholelithiasis and benign obstruction of the extrahepatic biliary tract as causes of the cholestatic syndromes. Thus ERCP again turned out to be a valuable diagnostic procedure. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) using the Chiba technique has not yet been applied in infancy to a great extent. Application of PTC however should be considered as well in cholestasis. It cannot yet be decided, if ERCP or PTC is to be prefered in neonatal cholestasis; further investigations are needed to clear up this point.", "PMID": 449572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9091", "title": "[Autonomous nervous system and bile ducts (author's transl)].", "content": "Storage, concentration and excretion of bile in the extrahepatic bile duct system are rather complicated processes being regulated by the autonomous nervous system. Groups of ganglionic cells and nerve fibers are located in the papilla, the neck of the gall bladder, and to a lesser degree in the wall of the gall bladder, that is to say in parts of the system which are important in regard to coordination of the excretory function. The number of ganglionic cells decreases in diseases which go along with functional disorders of the bile duct system. If the papilla Vateri and the duodenal musculature are disconnected anatomically, the papilla will retain autonomous muscular activity which however will not be coordinated any more with duodenal function, as the chymus passes by. Parasympathetic activity plays a major role in regulating the complicated mechanism of bile excretion. The autonomous nervous system is important for normal functioning not only of bile excretion but also of other organs; this explains the coincidence of dyskinesia of the bile ducts with other functional disorders being observed rather often. Autonomous regulation of bile excretion has to be taken into consideration as well, when it comes to outlining a therapeutic regimen.", "contents": "[Autonomous nervous system and bile ducts (author's transl)]. Storage, concentration and excretion of bile in the extrahepatic bile duct system are rather complicated processes being regulated by the autonomous nervous system. Groups of ganglionic cells and nerve fibers are located in the papilla, the neck of the gall bladder, and to a lesser degree in the wall of the gall bladder, that is to say in parts of the system which are important in regard to coordination of the excretory function. The number of ganglionic cells decreases in diseases which go along with functional disorders of the bile duct system. If the papilla Vateri and the duodenal musculature are disconnected anatomically, the papilla will retain autonomous muscular activity which however will not be coordinated any more with duodenal function, as the chymus passes by. Parasympathetic activity plays a major role in regulating the complicated mechanism of bile excretion. The autonomous nervous system is important for normal functioning not only of bile excretion but also of other organs; this explains the coincidence of dyskinesia of the bile ducts with other functional disorders being observed rather often. Autonomous regulation of bile excretion has to be taken into consideration as well, when it comes to outlining a therapeutic regimen.", "PMID": 449573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9092", "title": "[Diagnosis and treatment of choledochus cysts (author's transl)].", "content": "Two cases we observed initiated a survey of the literature concerning the surgical management of choledochus cysts. We compared long-term results with regard to postoperative complications, rates of necessity of reoperation and operative mortality in 316 reported cases. Resection of the choledochus cyst and a subsequent biliodigestive anastomosis performed as choledocho-jejunostomy (as outlined by Roux) is the therapy of choice in this rare disease, since it gives the best long-term results.", "contents": "[Diagnosis and treatment of choledochus cysts (author's transl)]. Two cases we observed initiated a survey of the literature concerning the surgical management of choledochus cysts. We compared long-term results with regard to postoperative complications, rates of necessity of reoperation and operative mortality in 316 reported cases. Resection of the choledochus cyst and a subsequent biliodigestive anastomosis performed as choledocho-jejunostomy (as outlined by Roux) is the therapy of choice in this rare disease, since it gives the best long-term results.", "PMID": 449574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9093", "title": "[The uni-quatro camera - a new camera for documentation of monitor pictures (author's transl)].", "content": "A new camera system is described, which was devised to take pictures of monitor screens on special X-ray film, and it is compared with conventional methods of documentation. Quality of pictures obtained with this method is optimal, handling is quick and simple, and, in spite of that, the camera is smaller and less expensive than other multiformate cameras. Polaroid, special X-ray films and other films may be used interchangeable for all sorts of monitor screens. A report is given about the routine use of this system in ultrasonography.", "contents": "[The uni-quatro camera - a new camera for documentation of monitor pictures (author's transl)]. A new camera system is described, which was devised to take pictures of monitor screens on special X-ray film, and it is compared with conventional methods of documentation. Quality of pictures obtained with this method is optimal, handling is quick and simple, and, in spite of that, the camera is smaller and less expensive than other multiformate cameras. Polaroid, special X-ray films and other films may be used interchangeable for all sorts of monitor screens. A report is given about the routine use of this system in ultrasonography.", "PMID": 449575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9094", "title": "Fatty acids in female Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Acanthocephala).", "content": "Neutral lipids and phospholipids in the body wall, lemnisci and pseudocoel and neutral lipids of fluid found in the \"tube\" system of the lemnisci and the lacunar system of the body wall of Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Acanthocephala) were determined by the technique of thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography (GC). Sixteen different fatty acids from nonpolar lipids were identified as follows: 8:0, 10:0, 11:0, 12:0, 13:0, 14:0, 14:1, 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2 and/or 20:0, 18:3 and/or 20:1, 20:3, 22:1, 24:1 and 22:6. In addition, there were three unidentified GC peaks corresponding to chain lengths greater than 20 carbons. Sixteen different fatty acids from phospholipids were identified in each of the three fractions analyzed. They were as follows: 10:0, 11:0, 12:0, 13:0, 14:0, 14:1, 16:0, 16:1, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2 and/or 20:0, 20:2, 20:3, 22:1, 24:1 and 22:6. Four unidentified peaks were also observed. There was a significant difference in the percentage of lipid as well as the concentration of particular fatty acids when each fraction was compared. There was also an abundant supply of sterols and glycerides in each fraction.", "contents": "Fatty acids in female Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Acanthocephala). Neutral lipids and phospholipids in the body wall, lemnisci and pseudocoel and neutral lipids of fluid found in the \"tube\" system of the lemnisci and the lacunar system of the body wall of Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Acanthocephala) were determined by the technique of thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography (GC). Sixteen different fatty acids from nonpolar lipids were identified as follows: 8:0, 10:0, 11:0, 12:0, 13:0, 14:0, 14:1, 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2 and/or 20:0, 18:3 and/or 20:1, 20:3, 22:1, 24:1 and 22:6. In addition, there were three unidentified GC peaks corresponding to chain lengths greater than 20 carbons. Sixteen different fatty acids from phospholipids were identified in each of the three fractions analyzed. They were as follows: 10:0, 11:0, 12:0, 13:0, 14:0, 14:1, 16:0, 16:1, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2 and/or 20:0, 20:2, 20:3, 22:1, 24:1 and 22:6. Four unidentified peaks were also observed. There was a significant difference in the percentage of lipid as well as the concentration of particular fatty acids when each fraction was compared. There was also an abundant supply of sterols and glycerides in each fraction.", "PMID": 449626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9095", "title": "Trans fatty acids: positional specificity in brain lecithin.", "content": "Fifteen-day-old rats were divided into three groups: one group received an intracerebral injection of 5 microCi of 9-trans,12-trans [1-(14)C] octadecadienoic acid; the second group was given 5 microCi of the same compound plus an equal wt of nonradioactive all cis arachidonic acid; the third group was given 5 microCi of 9-trans [1-(14)C] octadecenoic acid. All animals were sacrificed 8 hr after injection. Glycerophosphocholine (GPC) was isolated and partically deacylated with phospholipase A2 from Crotalus Adamanteus venom. The results of this study were as follows: 1) after t[1-(14)C]18:1 injection, there was twice as much radioactivity in the 1-position as in the 2-position; 2) when tt[1-(14)C] 18:2 was injected, more than 90% of the total radioactivity was found in the 2-position; 3) following tt[1-(14)C]-18:2 + nonradioactive arachidonate injection, ca. 75% of the total radioactivity still remained in the 2-position; and 4) all of the injected [1-(14)C]-tracers showed evidence of undergoing beta-oxidation to form acetyl-CoA, which was converted to radioactive palmitate. The possibility is discussed that the observed distribution pattern of the injected radioactive tracers may be attributed to tissue metabolic specificity. Ramifications of the deposition of dietary trans fatty acids in the brain during the developmental stage of the central nervous system are also discussed.", "contents": "Trans fatty acids: positional specificity in brain lecithin. Fifteen-day-old rats were divided into three groups: one group received an intracerebral injection of 5 microCi of 9-trans,12-trans [1-(14)C] octadecadienoic acid; the second group was given 5 microCi of the same compound plus an equal wt of nonradioactive all cis arachidonic acid; the third group was given 5 microCi of 9-trans [1-(14)C] octadecenoic acid. All animals were sacrificed 8 hr after injection. Glycerophosphocholine (GPC) was isolated and partically deacylated with phospholipase A2 from Crotalus Adamanteus venom. The results of this study were as follows: 1) after t[1-(14)C]18:1 injection, there was twice as much radioactivity in the 1-position as in the 2-position; 2) when tt[1-(14)C] 18:2 was injected, more than 90% of the total radioactivity was found in the 2-position; 3) following tt[1-(14)C]-18:2 + nonradioactive arachidonate injection, ca. 75% of the total radioactivity still remained in the 2-position; and 4) all of the injected [1-(14)C]-tracers showed evidence of undergoing beta-oxidation to form acetyl-CoA, which was converted to radioactive palmitate. The possibility is discussed that the observed distribution pattern of the injected radioactive tracers may be attributed to tissue metabolic specificity. Ramifications of the deposition of dietary trans fatty acids in the brain during the developmental stage of the central nervous system are also discussed.", "PMID": 449627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9096", "title": "(+)Nortrachelogenin, a new pharmacologically active lignan from Wikstroemia indica.", "content": "A new lignan, (+)-nortrachelogenin (I), and a known compound, daphnoretin were isolated from Wikstroemia indica C.A. Meyer (Thymelaeaceae). The structure of (+)-nortrachelogenin was established as 8(R)8'-4,4',8'-trihydroxy-3,3'-dimethoxylignan-olid, (9,9') on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and comparison with its enantiomer, (-)-nortrachelogenin. +-nortrachelogenin(I) showed effects on the central nervous system producing depression in rabbits.", "contents": "(+)Nortrachelogenin, a new pharmacologically active lignan from Wikstroemia indica. A new lignan, (+)-nortrachelogenin (I), and a known compound, daphnoretin were isolated from Wikstroemia indica C.A. Meyer (Thymelaeaceae). The structure of (+)-nortrachelogenin was established as 8(R)8'-4,4',8'-trihydroxy-3,3'-dimethoxylignan-olid, (9,9') on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and comparison with its enantiomer, (-)-nortrachelogenin. +-nortrachelogenin(I) showed effects on the central nervous system producing depression in rabbits.", "PMID": 449625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9097", "title": "A comparative study of the lipid composition of isolated rat Sertoli and germinal cells.", "content": "The lipid composition of enriched preparations of Sertoli cells and of germinal cells, isolated from the testes of mature rats, has been investigated. Sertoli cells contained a much lower content of phospholipids (in particular, much less phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine) and a higher content of triacylglycerols than did germinal cells. In addition, the Sertoli cells had a higher ratio of esterified to unesterified cholesterol than did germinal cells. Total lipids of Sertoli cells contained considerably lower levels of palmitic and docosa-4,7,10,13,16-pentaenoic acids and higher levels of stearic and oleic acid than did the total lipids of germinal cells. The major phospholipid classes and the triacylglycerols of Sertoli cells similarly contained less palmitic and docosa-4,7,10,13,16-pentaenoic acids, more stearic and oleic acids and also more arachidonic acid than did the corresponding lipid classes of the germinal cells. Minor differences between cell types were also noted for the content of palmitoleic, linoleic, docosa-7,10,13,16-tetraenoic, docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoic and tetracosa-9,12,15,18-tetraenoic acids.", "contents": "A comparative study of the lipid composition of isolated rat Sertoli and germinal cells. The lipid composition of enriched preparations of Sertoli cells and of germinal cells, isolated from the testes of mature rats, has been investigated. Sertoli cells contained a much lower content of phospholipids (in particular, much less phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine) and a higher content of triacylglycerols than did germinal cells. In addition, the Sertoli cells had a higher ratio of esterified to unesterified cholesterol than did germinal cells. Total lipids of Sertoli cells contained considerably lower levels of palmitic and docosa-4,7,10,13,16-pentaenoic acids and higher levels of stearic and oleic acid than did the total lipids of germinal cells. The major phospholipid classes and the triacylglycerols of Sertoli cells similarly contained less palmitic and docosa-4,7,10,13,16-pentaenoic acids, more stearic and oleic acids and also more arachidonic acid than did the corresponding lipid classes of the germinal cells. Minor differences between cell types were also noted for the content of palmitoleic, linoleic, docosa-7,10,13,16-tetraenoic, docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoic and tetracosa-9,12,15,18-tetraenoic acids.", "PMID": 449628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9098", "title": "In vitro conversion of erucic acid by microsomes and mitochondria from liver, kidneys and heart of rats.", "content": "Microsomes and mitochondria of liver, kidneys, and heart were incubated with [14-(14)C] erucic acid in three assay media: one favorable for chain elongation (NADPH + KCN), another favorable for beta-oxidation and the last one for shortening (NADP + KCN). Elongating reactions occurred mainly in microsomes, those of kidneys being very active; the mitochondria also showed some activity, heart mitochondria being, however, more active than the microsomes, when considering the amount of erucic acid activated. In the medium for beta-oxidation, practically no shortened fatty acids were found. On the contrary, when beta-oxidation was inhibited, and in the presence of NADP, the formation of shorter monoenes, probably in the outer membrane of the mitochondria, was observed, namely eicosenoic acid in high amount, oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid. Mitochondria from liver were very active as were those of heart, when compared with the quantity of activated erucic acid. In heart, the mitochondria shortened erucic acid into oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid, which were then probably used as energy substrates. With carnitine and without NADP, shortened fatty acids were formed in the mitochondria of liver, probably by the first reactions of beta-oxidation. In this case, the proportions of oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid were higher than with NADP alone. In the presence of carnitine and NADP, the level of the chain-shortening reaction did not differ from that observed with NADP alone. It appears, therefore, that the activated erucic acid is mainly directed towards shortening reactions and not towards transfer reactions across the mitochondrial membranes.", "contents": "In vitro conversion of erucic acid by microsomes and mitochondria from liver, kidneys and heart of rats. Microsomes and mitochondria of liver, kidneys, and heart were incubated with [14-(14)C] erucic acid in three assay media: one favorable for chain elongation (NADPH + KCN), another favorable for beta-oxidation and the last one for shortening (NADP + KCN). Elongating reactions occurred mainly in microsomes, those of kidneys being very active; the mitochondria also showed some activity, heart mitochondria being, however, more active than the microsomes, when considering the amount of erucic acid activated. In the medium for beta-oxidation, practically no shortened fatty acids were found. On the contrary, when beta-oxidation was inhibited, and in the presence of NADP, the formation of shorter monoenes, probably in the outer membrane of the mitochondria, was observed, namely eicosenoic acid in high amount, oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid. Mitochondria from liver were very active as were those of heart, when compared with the quantity of activated erucic acid. In heart, the mitochondria shortened erucic acid into oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid, which were then probably used as energy substrates. With carnitine and without NADP, shortened fatty acids were formed in the mitochondria of liver, probably by the first reactions of beta-oxidation. In this case, the proportions of oleic acid and hexadecenoic acid were higher than with NADP alone. In the presence of carnitine and NADP, the level of the chain-shortening reaction did not differ from that observed with NADP alone. It appears, therefore, that the activated erucic acid is mainly directed towards shortening reactions and not towards transfer reactions across the mitochondrial membranes.", "PMID": 449629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9099", "title": "The effects of phenobarbital on biliary lipid metabolism in cholesterol gallstone subjects.", "content": "The effect of 1.7-2.2 mg/day oral phenobarbital over short (1 MO) and long term (6-24 MO) treatment on primary bile acid (BA) secretion, composition, synthesis, pool size, and enterohepatic cycling rates as well as phospholipid (PL) and cholesterol (C) secretion rates and biliary composition was determined in 12 asymptomatic cholesterol gallstone subjects while 5 normals had only short term studies. Phenobarbital enhanced BA and C secretion (BA-636 +/- 166 to 2110 +/- 382 mg/hr, p less than 0.001 and C-42 +/- 5 to 224 +/- 48 mg/hr, p less than 0.001) and BA cycling rate in all subjects studied during stimulated enterohepatic circulation but, during fasting, it only enhanced BA secretion (451 +/- 129 vs. 759 +/- 159 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) in gallstone subjects. Cholic acid (CA) production rate (171 +/- 28 to 395 +/- 9 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) and pool size (727 +/- 80 to 1209 +/- 132 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) were increased during long term treatment of gallstone subjects, while the proportion of CA in bile and deoxycholic aicd (DCA) in feces increased. Treatment decreased biliary cholesterol from supersaturated to saturated levels (9.5 +/- 0.6 vs. 6.1 +/- 0.9 moles %, p less than 0.02) in all fasting gallstone subjects and decreased cholesterol crystal loads during long term treatment; but, while prohibiting gallstone growth, it did not affect stone dissolution over 24 months' treatment. Phenobarbital also failed to affect biliary lipid composition or bile acid pool size in short term treatment of normals. Thus, phenobarbital affected hepatic metabolism of CA by enhancing production rate, secretion, and pool size; and intestinal metabolism of both CA and chenodeoxycholic (CDC) acids by increasing their cycling rates. Phenobarbital may have failed to produce stone dissolution by enhancing CA production and pool size more than that of CDC.", "contents": "The effects of phenobarbital on biliary lipid metabolism in cholesterol gallstone subjects. The effect of 1.7-2.2 mg/day oral phenobarbital over short (1 MO) and long term (6-24 MO) treatment on primary bile acid (BA) secretion, composition, synthesis, pool size, and enterohepatic cycling rates as well as phospholipid (PL) and cholesterol (C) secretion rates and biliary composition was determined in 12 asymptomatic cholesterol gallstone subjects while 5 normals had only short term studies. Phenobarbital enhanced BA and C secretion (BA-636 +/- 166 to 2110 +/- 382 mg/hr, p less than 0.001 and C-42 +/- 5 to 224 +/- 48 mg/hr, p less than 0.001) and BA cycling rate in all subjects studied during stimulated enterohepatic circulation but, during fasting, it only enhanced BA secretion (451 +/- 129 vs. 759 +/- 159 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) in gallstone subjects. Cholic acid (CA) production rate (171 +/- 28 to 395 +/- 9 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) and pool size (727 +/- 80 to 1209 +/- 132 mg/hr, p less than 0.05) were increased during long term treatment of gallstone subjects, while the proportion of CA in bile and deoxycholic aicd (DCA) in feces increased. Treatment decreased biliary cholesterol from supersaturated to saturated levels (9.5 +/- 0.6 vs. 6.1 +/- 0.9 moles %, p less than 0.02) in all fasting gallstone subjects and decreased cholesterol crystal loads during long term treatment; but, while prohibiting gallstone growth, it did not affect stone dissolution over 24 months' treatment. Phenobarbital also failed to affect biliary lipid composition or bile acid pool size in short term treatment of normals. Thus, phenobarbital affected hepatic metabolism of CA by enhancing production rate, secretion, and pool size; and intestinal metabolism of both CA and chenodeoxycholic (CDC) acids by increasing their cycling rates. Phenobarbital may have failed to produce stone dissolution by enhancing CA production and pool size more than that of CDC.", "PMID": 449630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9100", "title": "The content and composition of sterols and sterol esters in sunflower and poppy seed oils.", "content": "The composition and proportion of free sterols and sterol esters in crude sunflower and poppy seed oils were determined, using preparative thin layer chromatography followed by gas chromatography with cholesterol as an internal standard. Free sterols and sterols esters were also isolated in a liquid fraction obtained by low temperature crystallization (-80 C) of the oils and enriched with minor lipid classes. This enrichment procedure provided a liquid fraction suitable for studies of minor components in the oils. However, selectivity towards sterol esters was observed since sterols esterified to very long chain fatty acids (C20-C24) were preferentially retained in the precipitate. The proportion of free and esterified sterols were found to be 0.34% and 0.28%, respectively, in the sunflower oil, whereas the corresponding figures for poppy seed oil were 0.33% and 0.05%. Sunflower oil was characterized by a relatively high percentage of delta 7-sterols, preferentially obtained in the esterified fraction, and by very long chain saturated fatty acids of sterol esters. The sterols in poppy seed oil were composed almost entirely of campesterol, stigmasterol, sitosterol and delta 5-avenasterol, although their percentage distributions were remarkably different in the free and esterified fraction.", "contents": "The content and composition of sterols and sterol esters in sunflower and poppy seed oils. The composition and proportion of free sterols and sterol esters in crude sunflower and poppy seed oils were determined, using preparative thin layer chromatography followed by gas chromatography with cholesterol as an internal standard. Free sterols and sterols esters were also isolated in a liquid fraction obtained by low temperature crystallization (-80 C) of the oils and enriched with minor lipid classes. This enrichment procedure provided a liquid fraction suitable for studies of minor components in the oils. However, selectivity towards sterol esters was observed since sterols esterified to very long chain fatty acids (C20-C24) were preferentially retained in the precipitate. The proportion of free and esterified sterols were found to be 0.34% and 0.28%, respectively, in the sunflower oil, whereas the corresponding figures for poppy seed oil were 0.33% and 0.05%. Sunflower oil was characterized by a relatively high percentage of delta 7-sterols, preferentially obtained in the esterified fraction, and by very long chain saturated fatty acids of sterol esters. The sterols in poppy seed oil were composed almost entirely of campesterol, stigmasterol, sitosterol and delta 5-avenasterol, although their percentage distributions were remarkably different in the free and esterified fraction.", "PMID": 449631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9101", "title": "Metabolism of naphthenic hydrocarbons. Utilization of a monocyclic paraffin, dodecylcyclohexane, by rat.", "content": "3H-Dodecylcyclohexane was incorporated in rat diet in order to study the metabolic utilization by mammals of a monocycloparaffin chosen as a typical naphthenic constituent of mineral oils. Dodecylcyclohexane was largely absorbed. No elimination of the hydrocarbon was observed in urine while an extended excretion of 3H occurred via this route. About 7% of absorbed dodecylcyclohexane was stored in the carcass, while the rest was omega-oxidized to cyclohexyldodecanoic acid, which incorporated into neutral lipids and phospholipids. The aliphatic chain of this unusual fatty acid underwent the normal fatty acid degradation pathways, leading to even fatty acids, squalene, cholesterol and nonlipid resynthesis, while the cyclohexyl ring was eliminated as urinary metabolites. Incorporation of omega-cyclohexyl fatty acids in phospholipids may raise a point of toxicological significance which is to be investigated.", "contents": "Metabolism of naphthenic hydrocarbons. Utilization of a monocyclic paraffin, dodecylcyclohexane, by rat. 3H-Dodecylcyclohexane was incorporated in rat diet in order to study the metabolic utilization by mammals of a monocycloparaffin chosen as a typical naphthenic constituent of mineral oils. Dodecylcyclohexane was largely absorbed. No elimination of the hydrocarbon was observed in urine while an extended excretion of 3H occurred via this route. About 7% of absorbed dodecylcyclohexane was stored in the carcass, while the rest was omega-oxidized to cyclohexyldodecanoic acid, which incorporated into neutral lipids and phospholipids. The aliphatic chain of this unusual fatty acid underwent the normal fatty acid degradation pathways, leading to even fatty acids, squalene, cholesterol and nonlipid resynthesis, while the cyclohexyl ring was eliminated as urinary metabolites. Incorporation of omega-cyclohexyl fatty acids in phospholipids may raise a point of toxicological significance which is to be investigated.", "PMID": 449632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9102", "title": "Distribution of hydrocarbons in bovine tissues.", "content": "Liver, heart, kidneys, muscle and adipose (perirenal and subcutaneous) tissues were collected from six animals for analysis of their hydrocarbon composition. Qualitative and quantitative determinations were carried out by gas chromatography and combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Although differing in the proportions, a homologous series of n-alkanes ranging from n-C12 to n-C31 was found in all the samples examined. The isoprenoid hydrocarbons phytane and phytene (phy-1-ene and phyt-2-ene) were also identified.", "contents": "Distribution of hydrocarbons in bovine tissues. Liver, heart, kidneys, muscle and adipose (perirenal and subcutaneous) tissues were collected from six animals for analysis of their hydrocarbon composition. Qualitative and quantitative determinations were carried out by gas chromatography and combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Although differing in the proportions, a homologous series of n-alkanes ranging from n-C12 to n-C31 was found in all the samples examined. The isoprenoid hydrocarbons phytane and phytene (phy-1-ene and phyt-2-ene) were also identified.", "PMID": 449633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9103", "title": "Determination of free choline and phosphorylcholine in rat liver.", "content": "A simple procedure for determination of levels of free choline and phosphorylcholine in hepatic tissue is outlined. The method makes use of the enzyme acid phosphatase to liberate choline from phosphorylcholine and incorporates the ability of choline to react with potassium triiodide to yield choline periodide for the measurement of choline and phosphorylcholine in liver. The method is accurate for both entities (recovery of 97-100% for choline and 92-98% for phosphorylcholine). For phosphorylcholine, the method is markedly simpler than other methods previously described and the results for normally fed rats are of the same order of magnitude. The applicability of the method was shown when it was demonstrated that diets containing different amounts of choline influenced the level of choline and phosphorylcholine in liver.", "contents": "Determination of free choline and phosphorylcholine in rat liver. A simple procedure for determination of levels of free choline and phosphorylcholine in hepatic tissue is outlined. The method makes use of the enzyme acid phosphatase to liberate choline from phosphorylcholine and incorporates the ability of choline to react with potassium triiodide to yield choline periodide for the measurement of choline and phosphorylcholine in liver. The method is accurate for both entities (recovery of 97-100% for choline and 92-98% for phosphorylcholine). For phosphorylcholine, the method is markedly simpler than other methods previously described and the results for normally fed rats are of the same order of magnitude. The applicability of the method was shown when it was demonstrated that diets containing different amounts of choline influenced the level of choline and phosphorylcholine in liver.", "PMID": 449634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9104", "title": "Familial pheochromocytoma, hypercalcemia, and von Hippel-Lindau disease. A ten year study of a large family.", "content": "Long-term epidemiological and laboratory studies were carried out in a kindred with familial pheochromocytoma associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease. Thirteen members were affected by the syndrome and the trait appears to be transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion. Of 13 patients, 7 had pheochromocytoma alone. Of the remaining six patients, one had pheochromocytoma combined with von Hippel-Lindau disease, four had pheochromocytoma with retinal disease only, and a single patient had a retinal lesion without pheochromocytoma. In four patients, pheochromocytoma antedated the development of retinal lesions. Ten members also had mild hypercalcemia without accompanying elevations of PTH in the 4 patients in whom this was determined. In all, hypercalcemia was corrected with removal of tumors, and no patient had a return of hypercalcemia in the absence of recurrent increases in urinary catecholamines. The clinical presentations in 12 patients varied markedly, as did their urinary excretion rates of norepinephrine, epinephrine and their metabolites. However, an analysis of the data revealed significant correlations not previously described between the urinary excretion of free catecholamines (norepinephrine plus epinephrine), blood pressure, the free catecholamine content of the tumor and the age of the patient. Urinary excretion of free norepinephrine plus epinephrine appear to be decreased with advancing age (p less than 0.001). Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures and the age of the patient were inversely correlated (p less than 0.01). A significant inverse relationship between the tumor content of free catecholamines and the age of the patients was, although to a lesser degree, also present (p less than 0.05). As a whole, the size of the tumors and their norepinephrine content were not correlated. We present a concept that, in familial pheochromocytoma, the metabolism of catecholamines is altered by the process of aging, and that this change modifies the clinical presentations of the disease.", "contents": "Familial pheochromocytoma, hypercalcemia, and von Hippel-Lindau disease. A ten year study of a large family. Long-term epidemiological and laboratory studies were carried out in a kindred with familial pheochromocytoma associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease. Thirteen members were affected by the syndrome and the trait appears to be transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion. Of 13 patients, 7 had pheochromocytoma alone. Of the remaining six patients, one had pheochromocytoma combined with von Hippel-Lindau disease, four had pheochromocytoma with retinal disease only, and a single patient had a retinal lesion without pheochromocytoma. In four patients, pheochromocytoma antedated the development of retinal lesions. Ten members also had mild hypercalcemia without accompanying elevations of PTH in the 4 patients in whom this was determined. In all, hypercalcemia was corrected with removal of tumors, and no patient had a return of hypercalcemia in the absence of recurrent increases in urinary catecholamines. The clinical presentations in 12 patients varied markedly, as did their urinary excretion rates of norepinephrine, epinephrine and their metabolites. However, an analysis of the data revealed significant correlations not previously described between the urinary excretion of free catecholamines (norepinephrine plus epinephrine), blood pressure, the free catecholamine content of the tumor and the age of the patient. Urinary excretion of free norepinephrine plus epinephrine appear to be decreased with advancing age (p less than 0.001). Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures and the age of the patient were inversely correlated (p less than 0.01). A significant inverse relationship between the tumor content of free catecholamines and the age of the patients was, although to a lesser degree, also present (p less than 0.05). As a whole, the size of the tumors and their norepinephrine content were not correlated. We present a concept that, in familial pheochromocytoma, the metabolism of catecholamines is altered by the process of aging, and that this change modifies the clinical presentations of the disease.", "PMID": 449657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9105", "title": "Membranous glomerulonephritis with extra-renal disorders in children.", "content": "Thirty of 85 children with membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) had associated extraglomerular disorders. The relation of these associations to membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is discussed. The causal relationship of acute hepatitis (5 cases), persistent hepatitis B antigenemia (6 cases), systemic lupus erythematosus (2 cases) and syphilis (1 case) may be ascertained; in similar conditions a definite antigen (Ag) has been found in MGN deposits. The association with SS or SA hemoglobinopathy (3 cases) ans with a preceding streptococcal infection (4 cases) raises the possible responsibility of renal tubular epithelium (RTE) Ag and of a streptococcal Ag. D-penicillamine therapy (1 case) is a well-known cause of MGN although the acting Ag remains unknown. Four children had serum sickness-like symptoms, two had hematologic disorders and two had proximal tubular dysfunction, one of them with proven anti-tubular and anti-alveolar basement membrane antibodies. A decrease in plasma C4, Clq, and factor B with normal C3 was frequently observed. The multiple Ag previously described as causative of MGN are recalled. The prevalent incidence of HBsAg is stressed, and the necessity for further investigations in patients with MGN in order to find an underlying disease is emphasized.", "contents": "Membranous glomerulonephritis with extra-renal disorders in children. Thirty of 85 children with membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) had associated extraglomerular disorders. The relation of these associations to membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is discussed. The causal relationship of acute hepatitis (5 cases), persistent hepatitis B antigenemia (6 cases), systemic lupus erythematosus (2 cases) and syphilis (1 case) may be ascertained; in similar conditions a definite antigen (Ag) has been found in MGN deposits. The association with SS or SA hemoglobinopathy (3 cases) ans with a preceding streptococcal infection (4 cases) raises the possible responsibility of renal tubular epithelium (RTE) Ag and of a streptococcal Ag. D-penicillamine therapy (1 case) is a well-known cause of MGN although the acting Ag remains unknown. Four children had serum sickness-like symptoms, two had hematologic disorders and two had proximal tubular dysfunction, one of them with proven anti-tubular and anti-alveolar basement membrane antibodies. A decrease in plasma C4, Clq, and factor B with normal C3 was frequently observed. The multiple Ag previously described as causative of MGN are recalled. The prevalent incidence of HBsAg is stressed, and the necessity for further investigations in patients with MGN in order to find an underlying disease is emphasized.", "PMID": 449658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9106", "title": "Pulmonary 'mainline' granulomatosis: talcosis of intravenous methadone abuse.", "content": "Seventeen intravenous abusers of methadone underwent clinical, roentgenologic and physiologic assessment. Two complained of dyspnea on exertion and two had cor pulmonale. Of 15 patients whose fundi were examined, nine had talc particles in their retinal vessels. The chest roentgenograms of seven showed a diffuse pin-point micronodular pattern and two of the seven also manifested volume loss, one with coalescence of opacities simulating progressive massive fibrosis. Twelve patients had some degree of pulmonary dysfunction, 10 with lowered steady state diffusing capacity and 11 with decreased flow rates (FEV1 and MMF). There was no hyperinflation, but two showed an increase in residual volume. Corticosteroid therapy was attempted on two and was ineffective. Necropsy on the one patient who died revealed severe pulmonary fibrosis and talc granulomas in lungs, liver, kidneys and lymph nodes.", "contents": "Pulmonary 'mainline' granulomatosis: talcosis of intravenous methadone abuse. Seventeen intravenous abusers of methadone underwent clinical, roentgenologic and physiologic assessment. Two complained of dyspnea on exertion and two had cor pulmonale. Of 15 patients whose fundi were examined, nine had talc particles in their retinal vessels. The chest roentgenograms of seven showed a diffuse pin-point micronodular pattern and two of the seven also manifested volume loss, one with coalescence of opacities simulating progressive massive fibrosis. Twelve patients had some degree of pulmonary dysfunction, 10 with lowered steady state diffusing capacity and 11 with decreased flow rates (FEV1 and MMF). There was no hyperinflation, but two showed an increase in residual volume. Corticosteroid therapy was attempted on two and was ineffective. Necropsy on the one patient who died revealed severe pulmonary fibrosis and talc granulomas in lungs, liver, kidneys and lymph nodes.", "PMID": 449659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9107", "title": "The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH): pathophysiologic mechanisms in solute and volume regulation.", "content": "1. Studies on eight patients were performed to clarify the mechanism(s) of altered sodium metabolism and volume regulation in SIADH. The mechanism controlling water excretion was also studied to determine whether there is evidence that altered osmoregulation may be the basis for inappropriate ADH secretion in some patients. 2. These studies show that cumulative sodium balance and aldosterone secretion rates in patients with SIADH are negatively correlated with water intake. There is also a negative correlation between aldosterone secretion and urinary sodium excretion. In the absence of normal urine diluting ability, this increased excretion of sodium becomes a mechanism that allows an increased quantity of water to be excreted despite the persistence of an ADH effect on the renal tubules. 3. Within the range of hyponatremia observed in our studies, changes in serum sodium concentration were accounted for by changes in solute and water balance. One patient, who was potassium deficient during the studies, retained large quantities of sodium and potassium that could not be accounted for by an increase in either serum osmolality or body weight. These observations suggest that intracellular osmotically active solute is either lost or \"inactivated\" in some manner as intracellular potassium is replenished. 4. Marked impairment of urine diluting ability was demonstrated in all patients. However, two patients with SIADH associated with pulmonary tuberculosis exhibited graded responses to water loading, which suggests that ADH secretion may have been suppressed as serum osmolality was progressively reduced. Whether this can be attributed to a basic alteration or \"re-setting\" or osmoreceptor function, or is merely an indication that greater than normal reductions of serum osmolality are required to inhibit potent nonosmotic stimuli, remains to be determined.", "contents": "The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH): pathophysiologic mechanisms in solute and volume regulation. 1. Studies on eight patients were performed to clarify the mechanism(s) of altered sodium metabolism and volume regulation in SIADH. The mechanism controlling water excretion was also studied to determine whether there is evidence that altered osmoregulation may be the basis for inappropriate ADH secretion in some patients. 2. These studies show that cumulative sodium balance and aldosterone secretion rates in patients with SIADH are negatively correlated with water intake. There is also a negative correlation between aldosterone secretion and urinary sodium excretion. In the absence of normal urine diluting ability, this increased excretion of sodium becomes a mechanism that allows an increased quantity of water to be excreted despite the persistence of an ADH effect on the renal tubules. 3. Within the range of hyponatremia observed in our studies, changes in serum sodium concentration were accounted for by changes in solute and water balance. One patient, who was potassium deficient during the studies, retained large quantities of sodium and potassium that could not be accounted for by an increase in either serum osmolality or body weight. These observations suggest that intracellular osmotically active solute is either lost or \"inactivated\" in some manner as intracellular potassium is replenished. 4. Marked impairment of urine diluting ability was demonstrated in all patients. However, two patients with SIADH associated with pulmonary tuberculosis exhibited graded responses to water loading, which suggests that ADH secretion may have been suppressed as serum osmolality was progressively reduced. Whether this can be attributed to a basic alteration or \"re-setting\" or osmoreceptor function, or is merely an indication that greater than normal reductions of serum osmolality are required to inhibit potent nonosmotic stimuli, remains to be determined.", "PMID": 449660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9108", "title": "Hematin therapy for acute porphyria.", "content": "1. A therapeutic trial of intravenous hematin is presented. Eleven cases of AIP and one of VP who did not improve with conventional treatment (high carbohydrate intake) received this new agent. 2. Urinary ALA, PBG and, when possible, uroporphyrin and coproporphyrin were used to monitor the chemical response to the treatment. Objective clinical parameters of hypertension and tachycardia were followed when present in addition to subjective estimates of acute porphyric symptomatology (abdominal pain, backache, extremity pain and paresthesias, weakness, depression, etc.). 3. At a dosage of approximately 3 mg/kg, diminution of urinary ALA and PBG excretion was achieved in every patients. Hypertension and tachycardia improved in those instances where they were observed in association with the attack. Also, subjective improvements in the clinical status of the patients were observed frequently. 4. Hematin appears to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of acute attack forms of porphyria.", "contents": "Hematin therapy for acute porphyria. 1. A therapeutic trial of intravenous hematin is presented. Eleven cases of AIP and one of VP who did not improve with conventional treatment (high carbohydrate intake) received this new agent. 2. Urinary ALA, PBG and, when possible, uroporphyrin and coproporphyrin were used to monitor the chemical response to the treatment. Objective clinical parameters of hypertension and tachycardia were followed when present in addition to subjective estimates of acute porphyric symptomatology (abdominal pain, backache, extremity pain and paresthesias, weakness, depression, etc.). 3. At a dosage of approximately 3 mg/kg, diminution of urinary ALA and PBG excretion was achieved in every patients. Hypertension and tachycardia improved in those instances where they were observed in association with the attack. Also, subjective improvements in the clinical status of the patients were observed frequently. 4. Hematin appears to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of acute attack forms of porphyria.", "PMID": 449661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9109", "title": "The clinical course of mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis.", "content": "Patients with a pure mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis may present with either hematuria, asymptomatic proteinuria, or nephrotic syndrome. For patients with hematuria, the clinical course is self-limited, and spontaneous resolution of recurrent episodes of macroscopic hematuria occurred in many of these patients. For patients with asymptomatic proteinuria, a spontaneous decrease in proteinuria occurred and none of these patients developed a progressive course. The clinical course of patients with nephrotic syndrome was similar to that usually observed in children and adults with pure minimal change lesions. A complete remission of the nephrotic syndrome occurred in most of these patients during treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide. Overall, the prognosis for the patients reported in this series was quite good.", "contents": "The clinical course of mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis. Patients with a pure mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis may present with either hematuria, asymptomatic proteinuria, or nephrotic syndrome. For patients with hematuria, the clinical course is self-limited, and spontaneous resolution of recurrent episodes of macroscopic hematuria occurred in many of these patients. For patients with asymptomatic proteinuria, a spontaneous decrease in proteinuria occurred and none of these patients developed a progressive course. The clinical course of patients with nephrotic syndrome was similar to that usually observed in children and adults with pure minimal change lesions. A complete remission of the nephrotic syndrome occurred in most of these patients during treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide. Overall, the prognosis for the patients reported in this series was quite good.", "PMID": 449664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9110", "title": "Acquired C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency and angioedema: a review.", "content": "A case of acquired C1INH deficiency with angioedema is described. Fifteen cases are thus far recorded. The clinical syndrome of angioedema in these patients closely resembles hereditary angioedema (HAE). Most cases are associated with a paraprotein, cryoglobulin, or autoantibody, which presumably initiates C1 activation and C1 Inhibitor consumption. C1INH, C4 and C2 levels are low in acquired C1INH deficiency, as in HAE. A distinguishing feature is that C1 titers are very low in the acquired disease and only minimally depressed, if at all, in HAE. Most cases have appeared in patients with an underlying lymphoproliferative or autoimmune disease. Therapy is directed at the underlying disorder, but androgen therapy may be helpful in preventing attacks. Future potential therapeutic approaches are discussed.", "contents": "Acquired C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency and angioedema: a review. A case of acquired C1INH deficiency with angioedema is described. Fifteen cases are thus far recorded. The clinical syndrome of angioedema in these patients closely resembles hereditary angioedema (HAE). Most cases are associated with a paraprotein, cryoglobulin, or autoantibody, which presumably initiates C1 activation and C1 Inhibitor consumption. C1INH, C4 and C2 levels are low in acquired C1INH deficiency, as in HAE. A distinguishing feature is that C1 titers are very low in the acquired disease and only minimally depressed, if at all, in HAE. Most cases have appeared in patients with an underlying lymphoproliferative or autoimmune disease. Therapy is directed at the underlying disorder, but androgen therapy may be helpful in preventing attacks. Future potential therapeutic approaches are discussed.", "PMID": 449665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9111", "title": "[Effect of metal dust on the respiratory system. I. Experimental studies].", "content": "The Wistar rats were intratracheally administered 50 mg of PbO dust, the same amounts of metalliferous dust from one of lead--and zinc works and of ferrotungsten dust, and 10--15 mg of cadmium dust (greater doses of cadmium dust resulted in animals' death). After 6 months, and in the case of cadmium dust after 9--12 months, the animals were dissected and their lungs were morphologically examined and hydroxyproline level was determined. In all groups hydroxyproline was found to be increased but fibrosis was different, especially in the group exposed to cadmium dust.", "contents": "[Effect of metal dust on the respiratory system. I. Experimental studies]. The Wistar rats were intratracheally administered 50 mg of PbO dust, the same amounts of metalliferous dust from one of lead--and zinc works and of ferrotungsten dust, and 10--15 mg of cadmium dust (greater doses of cadmium dust resulted in animals' death). After 6 months, and in the case of cadmium dust after 9--12 months, the animals were dissected and their lungs were morphologically examined and hydroxyproline level was determined. In all groups hydroxyproline was found to be increased but fibrosis was different, especially in the group exposed to cadmium dust.", "PMID": 449666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9112", "title": "[Effect of metal dust on the respiratory system. II. Clinical examinations].", "content": "Studies were carried out in 4 groups of workers occupationally exposed to cadmium, tungsten, manganese and lead. All those groups were homogeneous, composed exclusively of men aged 35--45, of similar height, body weight, and duration of employment above 10 years. Following the same criteria, a group of forestry workers, unexposed to dust, was randomly selected. The smoking habit was similar in all groups. Several--days--clinical observation included a detailed interview (MRC questionnaire), physical and radiological examination and a wide range of functional tests of lungs. The results reveal clinical and physiopathological symptoms which might be indicative of emphysema. The results of some studies also indicate the possibility of intraparenchymatous fibrosis of lungs in the tungsten--exposed--workers. No clear effects upon the respiratory system were found.", "contents": "[Effect of metal dust on the respiratory system. II. Clinical examinations]. Studies were carried out in 4 groups of workers occupationally exposed to cadmium, tungsten, manganese and lead. All those groups were homogeneous, composed exclusively of men aged 35--45, of similar height, body weight, and duration of employment above 10 years. Following the same criteria, a group of forestry workers, unexposed to dust, was randomly selected. The smoking habit was similar in all groups. Several--days--clinical observation included a detailed interview (MRC questionnaire), physical and radiological examination and a wide range of functional tests of lungs. The results reveal clinical and physiopathological symptoms which might be indicative of emphysema. The results of some studies also indicate the possibility of intraparenchymatous fibrosis of lungs in the tungsten--exposed--workers. No clear effects upon the respiratory system were found.", "PMID": 449667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9113", "title": "[Blood coagulation system in workers exposed to noise and vibration].", "content": "The authors examined the blood coagulation system in the following 3 groups of workers occupationally exposed to noise and vibration: A--those in whom the examination was conducted 7--16 hrs after finishing the work, B--those in whom the examination was conducted at the 3rd or 4th hour of work, and C--those suffering from angioneurosis of the vibration syndrome of II or III period who have not been exposed to vibration for some recent years. These investigations indicated the lack of blood equilibrium tending to hypercoagulability, shortened duration of plasma recalcination, increased elasticity coefficient of mE thromboelastogram coagulation, increased fibrinogen concentration; these changes were most evident in the group with advanced vibration disease and in those in whom the examination was conducted at their working time. Fibrinolysis duration was significantly prolonged during work, and shortened in those with advanced angioneurosis. In the opinion of the authors, those disturbances in the blood equilibrium system may be accounted for by the conformation changes of proteins.", "contents": "[Blood coagulation system in workers exposed to noise and vibration]. The authors examined the blood coagulation system in the following 3 groups of workers occupationally exposed to noise and vibration: A--those in whom the examination was conducted 7--16 hrs after finishing the work, B--those in whom the examination was conducted at the 3rd or 4th hour of work, and C--those suffering from angioneurosis of the vibration syndrome of II or III period who have not been exposed to vibration for some recent years. These investigations indicated the lack of blood equilibrium tending to hypercoagulability, shortened duration of plasma recalcination, increased elasticity coefficient of mE thromboelastogram coagulation, increased fibrinogen concentration; these changes were most evident in the group with advanced vibration disease and in those in whom the examination was conducted at their working time. Fibrinolysis duration was significantly prolonged during work, and shortened in those with advanced angioneurosis. In the opinion of the authors, those disturbances in the blood equilibrium system may be accounted for by the conformation changes of proteins.", "PMID": 449668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9114", "title": "[Effect of vibration and noise on the fat balance in exposed workers].", "content": "In 265 workers exposed to local vibration of low and medium frequencies and to industrial noise, the level of total lipids, phospholipids, beta lipoproteins and total cholesterol in the blood serum was examined. The level of all those substances, except cholesterol, was found to be increased. Based on the discussion, the possibility is assumed of the influence of the neurohormonal system upon the disturbances in lipometabolism.", "contents": "[Effect of vibration and noise on the fat balance in exposed workers]. In 265 workers exposed to local vibration of low and medium frequencies and to industrial noise, the level of total lipids, phospholipids, beta lipoproteins and total cholesterol in the blood serum was examined. The level of all those substances, except cholesterol, was found to be increased. Based on the discussion, the possibility is assumed of the influence of the neurohormonal system upon the disturbances in lipometabolism.", "PMID": 449669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9115", "title": "[Effect of vibration and noise on glycosaminoglycan (mucopolysaccharide) and hydroxyproline excretion].", "content": "In 126 humans occupationally exposed to local vibration and in 50 humans exposed to general vibration, glycosaminoglycanuria (GAG) and hydroxyprolinuria (HP) were examined. In addition, all subjects were exposed to industrial noise. An increased GAG excretion in those exposed to the vibration of low and medium frequencies was found, which is indicative of a damage to the basic substance of the connective tissue. The exposure to the lowest frequencies increases the HP excretion, thus indicating a damage to the collagen fibers.", "contents": "[Effect of vibration and noise on glycosaminoglycan (mucopolysaccharide) and hydroxyproline excretion]. In 126 humans occupationally exposed to local vibration and in 50 humans exposed to general vibration, glycosaminoglycanuria (GAG) and hydroxyprolinuria (HP) were examined. In addition, all subjects were exposed to industrial noise. An increased GAG excretion in those exposed to the vibration of low and medium frequencies was found, which is indicative of a damage to the basic substance of the connective tissue. The exposure to the lowest frequencies increases the HP excretion, thus indicating a damage to the collagen fibers.", "PMID": 449670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9116", "title": "[5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid and creatinine excretion in thermal stress].", "content": "The determination of 5-HIIA and creatinine excretion in thermal stress was performed in two series, in the first (I) on 102 healthy men aged 20--45 yrs (58 smokers and 55 non-smokers) and in the second one (II) on 20 men after drinking of 1 1 water immediately before thermal stress. The subjects remained at rest in the climatic chamber for 90 min in the temperature of 45 +/- 1 degrees C and relative humidity of 70 +/- 5 per cent. Thermal stress resulted in a significant increment of body temperature after 45 min and after consecutive 45 min of exposure, and lack of steady state. Creatinine and 5-HIIA were determined in two urine portions after 45 and after consecutive 45 min of exposure. Total amounts of excreted 5-HIIA and creatinine in the first urine portion in (I) and (II) were significantly higher in comparison with normal values; they did not depend on the amount of urine voided. The 5-HIIA excretion was significantly higher in smokers after the first 45 min of exposure only. Total amounts of excreted 5-HIIA and creatinine after another 45 min of exposure in (I) and (II) were significantly lower. The high correlation has been found between excretion of 5-HIIA and creatinine, indicating a similar process of excretion of both substances. Hydratation before the thermal stress exerted advantageous effect on the thermoregulation in men. The results of this study have been discussed in conjunction with the data in literature.", "contents": "[5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid and creatinine excretion in thermal stress]. The determination of 5-HIIA and creatinine excretion in thermal stress was performed in two series, in the first (I) on 102 healthy men aged 20--45 yrs (58 smokers and 55 non-smokers) and in the second one (II) on 20 men after drinking of 1 1 water immediately before thermal stress. The subjects remained at rest in the climatic chamber for 90 min in the temperature of 45 +/- 1 degrees C and relative humidity of 70 +/- 5 per cent. Thermal stress resulted in a significant increment of body temperature after 45 min and after consecutive 45 min of exposure, and lack of steady state. Creatinine and 5-HIIA were determined in two urine portions after 45 and after consecutive 45 min of exposure. Total amounts of excreted 5-HIIA and creatinine in the first urine portion in (I) and (II) were significantly higher in comparison with normal values; they did not depend on the amount of urine voided. The 5-HIIA excretion was significantly higher in smokers after the first 45 min of exposure only. Total amounts of excreted 5-HIIA and creatinine after another 45 min of exposure in (I) and (II) were significantly lower. The high correlation has been found between excretion of 5-HIIA and creatinine, indicating a similar process of excretion of both substances. Hydratation before the thermal stress exerted advantageous effect on the thermoregulation in men. The results of this study have been discussed in conjunction with the data in literature.", "PMID": 449671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9117", "title": "[Criteria used in the evaluation of the usefulness of surface-active agents in the fight against dustiness in coal mines].", "content": "The paper specifies the technical and biological criteria for evaluating the surface-active compounds used in preventing the dustiness, mainly in mines. In addition, effects of these compounds on the organism were discussed.", "contents": "[Criteria used in the evaluation of the usefulness of surface-active agents in the fight against dustiness in coal mines]. The paper specifies the technical and biological criteria for evaluating the surface-active compounds used in preventing the dustiness, mainly in mines. In addition, effects of these compounds on the organism were discussed.", "PMID": 449672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9118", "title": "[Radiological picture of pneumoconiosis in welders].", "content": "In the group of 35 welders with pneumoconiosis, the evolution of radiological changes was observed, after cessation of work in exposure. In 9 cases radiological changes retreated completely; in 16 cases they were clearly reduced, whereas in the remaining 10 persons no changes in radiological picture were found. The findings indicate that the radiological changes in welders' lungs may be reversible and as such they are most probably induced by dust retention.", "contents": "[Radiological picture of pneumoconiosis in welders]. In the group of 35 welders with pneumoconiosis, the evolution of radiological changes was observed, after cessation of work in exposure. In 9 cases radiological changes retreated completely; in 16 cases they were clearly reduced, whereas in the remaining 10 persons no changes in radiological picture were found. The findings indicate that the radiological changes in welders' lungs may be reversible and as such they are most probably induced by dust retention.", "PMID": 449673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9119", "title": "[Effects of detergents on lead absorption].", "content": "The effects of orally administeredated detergents (rokafenol and siarczanol) on the absorption of lead from rabbits alimentary duct were reviewed. The absorption of lead was evaluated by the activity of delta--aminolevulinic acid dehydratase of erythrocytes, delta--aminolevulinic acid level in urine and the level of lead in the blood and liver. The detergents were found to increase the absorption of lead.", "contents": "[Effects of detergents on lead absorption]. The effects of orally administeredated detergents (rokafenol and siarczanol) on the absorption of lead from rabbits alimentary duct were reviewed. The absorption of lead was evaluated by the activity of delta--aminolevulinic acid dehydratase of erythrocytes, delta--aminolevulinic acid level in urine and the level of lead in the blood and liver. The detergents were found to increase the absorption of lead.", "PMID": 449674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9120", "title": "Hyperglucagonemia in liver cirrhosis with portal-systemic venous anastomoses: responses of plasma glucagon and gastric inhibitory polypeptide to oral or intravenous glucose in cirrhotics with normal or elevated fasting plasma glucose levels.", "content": "Plasma immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) was examined in volunteers with biopsy-proven cirrhosis of the liver after recovery from surgical portal--caval anastomosis. A wide range of increased total plasma IRG concentrations was found after overnight fast in groups of cirrhotic subjects with and without fasting hyperglycemia. Gel filtration chromatography of plasma showed a major component in the 3500-mol wt fraction in all cases so studied. Administration of glucose i.v. caused rapid suppression of total plasma IRG in normoglycemic and non-insulin-dependent hyperglycemic cirrhotic subjects. After administration of oral glucose, total plasma IRG was suppressed rapidly in normoglycemic cirrhotic subjects, while non-insulin-dependent hyperglycemic cirrhotic subjects exhibited delayed but prolonged suppression. Chromatography of selected plasma with glucose-suppressed total IRG showed a major decrease in the 3500-mol wt component in every case. Exaggerated increments of plasma gastric inhibitory polypeptide were demonstrable in both groups of cirrhotic individuals after administration of oral glucose, and it is speculated that this peptide may contribute to stimulation of glucagon secretion in liver disease associated with insulin deficiency.", "contents": "Hyperglucagonemia in liver cirrhosis with portal-systemic venous anastomoses: responses of plasma glucagon and gastric inhibitory polypeptide to oral or intravenous glucose in cirrhotics with normal or elevated fasting plasma glucose levels. Plasma immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) was examined in volunteers with biopsy-proven cirrhosis of the liver after recovery from surgical portal--caval anastomosis. A wide range of increased total plasma IRG concentrations was found after overnight fast in groups of cirrhotic subjects with and without fasting hyperglycemia. Gel filtration chromatography of plasma showed a major component in the 3500-mol wt fraction in all cases so studied. Administration of glucose i.v. caused rapid suppression of total plasma IRG in normoglycemic and non-insulin-dependent hyperglycemic cirrhotic subjects. After administration of oral glucose, total plasma IRG was suppressed rapidly in normoglycemic cirrhotic subjects, while non-insulin-dependent hyperglycemic cirrhotic subjects exhibited delayed but prolonged suppression. Chromatography of selected plasma with glucose-suppressed total IRG showed a major decrease in the 3500-mol wt component in every case. Exaggerated increments of plasma gastric inhibitory polypeptide were demonstrable in both groups of cirrhotic individuals after administration of oral glucose, and it is speculated that this peptide may contribute to stimulation of glucagon secretion in liver disease associated with insulin deficiency.", "PMID": 449682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9121", "title": "A continuous analyzer for monitoring respiratory gases and expired radioactivity in clinical studies.", "content": "A system for the continuous monitoring of gas exchange as well as 14CO2 from metabolic studies is described. The analyzer incorporates modifications over previously published systems. These modifications include accurate control of analyzer pressure for stable baselines during the long periods of measurement, accurate control of temperature, the measurement of oxygen consumption during high oxygen patient therapy, the measurement of oxygen consumption of patients on a mechanical respirator, and describes a unique flux system to calibrate the analyzer detectors. The closed system provides expired breath data for O2, CO2, and 14CO2 on critically ill patients for long periods of time without stressing the patient and without using a face mask or mouthpiece. These data allow for the calculation of daily energy expenditures of hypermetabolic patients and for the assessment of various metabolic responses with 14C substrates.", "contents": "A continuous analyzer for monitoring respiratory gases and expired radioactivity in clinical studies. A system for the continuous monitoring of gas exchange as well as 14CO2 from metabolic studies is described. The analyzer incorporates modifications over previously published systems. These modifications include accurate control of analyzer pressure for stable baselines during the long periods of measurement, accurate control of temperature, the measurement of oxygen consumption during high oxygen patient therapy, the measurement of oxygen consumption of patients on a mechanical respirator, and describes a unique flux system to calibrate the analyzer detectors. The closed system provides expired breath data for O2, CO2, and 14CO2 on critically ill patients for long periods of time without stressing the patient and without using a face mask or mouthpiece. These data allow for the calculation of daily energy expenditures of hypermetabolic patients and for the assessment of various metabolic responses with 14C substrates.", "PMID": 449684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9122", "title": "Release of human pancreatic polypeptide and gastrin in response to intraduodenal stimuli: a case report.", "content": "A recent clinical case afforded an opportunity to study the effects of duodenal stimulation on plasma human pancreatic polypeptide and gastrin concentrations, independent of gastric stimulation. A distension stimulus was provided by rapid injection of 100 ml of water and saline via a T-tube into an isolated duodenal afferent limb. In a third experiment, the saline contained 200 pg/ml of heptadecapeptide human gastrin. Within 2 min after each injection, a rapid rise in circulating human pancreatic polypeptide levels appeared that fell promptly towards basal thereafter. Injections of 100 ml of Flexical, a supplemental tube feeding, resulted in a biphasic human pancreatic polypeptide response, the initial peak comparable to that seen following distension with water, saline, or saline containing gastrin, and a second peak of much greater magnitude and duration followed the initial peak. Plasma gastrin concentrations were not influenced following any of the stimuli. Duodenal distension alone may induce an early transient increase in plasma human pancreatic polypeptide concentrations, while intraduodenal nutrients per se may induce a later increment of greater magnitude and duration.", "contents": "Release of human pancreatic polypeptide and gastrin in response to intraduodenal stimuli: a case report. A recent clinical case afforded an opportunity to study the effects of duodenal stimulation on plasma human pancreatic polypeptide and gastrin concentrations, independent of gastric stimulation. A distension stimulus was provided by rapid injection of 100 ml of water and saline via a T-tube into an isolated duodenal afferent limb. In a third experiment, the saline contained 200 pg/ml of heptadecapeptide human gastrin. Within 2 min after each injection, a rapid rise in circulating human pancreatic polypeptide levels appeared that fell promptly towards basal thereafter. Injections of 100 ml of Flexical, a supplemental tube feeding, resulted in a biphasic human pancreatic polypeptide response, the initial peak comparable to that seen following distension with water, saline, or saline containing gastrin, and a second peak of much greater magnitude and duration followed the initial peak. Plasma gastrin concentrations were not influenced following any of the stimuli. Duodenal distension alone may induce an early transient increase in plasma human pancreatic polypeptide concentrations, while intraduodenal nutrients per se may induce a later increment of greater magnitude and duration.", "PMID": 449686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9123", "title": "Human adipose tissue in culture. VIII. Studies on the insulin-antagonistic effect of glucocorticoids.", "content": "Biopsies of human adipose tissue were maintained for 1 wk in vitro with physiologic (1.5-30 X 10(-8) M) or pharmacologic (300 X 10(-8) M) concentrations of hydrocortisone or 1000 muU/ml insulin, or both. After this period, the explants were washed and incubated for 2 hr according to techniques generally used to study fat cell metabolism. Physiologic concentrations of hydrocortisone mainly exert an insulin antagonistic effect. Thus, the long-term effects of insulin in increasing lipolysis, as well as glucose metabolism to triglycerides, were reduced, as were the acute effects of insulin on these parameters. At these concentrations, the glucocorticoid itself did not influence the basal metabolic rates when due consideration was given to simultaneous changes in mean fat cell size. At higher concentrations, which may easily be reached during nonspecific glucocorticoid therapy, the glucose metabolism was reduced. Hydrocortisone decreased the number of insulin receptors. However, this cannot solely explain the insulin-antagonistic effect, since it was not overcome by a supramaximal concentration of insulin. Insulin and hydrocortisone together increased the lipoprotein lipase (lpl) activity several times. The resultant changes in LPL appear to depend upon the insulincorticosteroid ratio.", "contents": "Human adipose tissue in culture. VIII. Studies on the insulin-antagonistic effect of glucocorticoids. Biopsies of human adipose tissue were maintained for 1 wk in vitro with physiologic (1.5-30 X 10(-8) M) or pharmacologic (300 X 10(-8) M) concentrations of hydrocortisone or 1000 muU/ml insulin, or both. After this period, the explants were washed and incubated for 2 hr according to techniques generally used to study fat cell metabolism. Physiologic concentrations of hydrocortisone mainly exert an insulin antagonistic effect. Thus, the long-term effects of insulin in increasing lipolysis, as well as glucose metabolism to triglycerides, were reduced, as were the acute effects of insulin on these parameters. At these concentrations, the glucocorticoid itself did not influence the basal metabolic rates when due consideration was given to simultaneous changes in mean fat cell size. At higher concentrations, which may easily be reached during nonspecific glucocorticoid therapy, the glucose metabolism was reduced. Hydrocortisone decreased the number of insulin receptors. However, this cannot solely explain the insulin-antagonistic effect, since it was not overcome by a supramaximal concentration of insulin. Insulin and hydrocortisone together increased the lipoprotein lipase (lpl) activity several times. The resultant changes in LPL appear to depend upon the insulincorticosteroid ratio.", "PMID": 449690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9124", "title": "Adipose cell morphology and control of lipolysis in a patient with partial lipodystrophy.", "content": "A previously unreported patient with partial (cephalothoracic) lipodystrophy is described. Glucose tolerance and plasma lipids were normal, but plasma insulin increased to 340 muU/ml during an oral glucose tolerance test. Plasma free fatty acids were appropriately suppressed by oral glucose, insulin, and nicotinic acid, and were increased by infusion of norepinephrine. The lipolytic responses was also normal in response to two stimuli for endogenous catecholamine release: upright posture and 2-deoxyglucose infusion. There was a gradual development of postural hypotension in response to upright posture despite appropriate reflex tachycardia. Anhidrosis was present over the lower half of the body during this test, in a distribution corresponding to the area of adipose tissue hypertrophy. Anhidrosis was also seen in this region in response to warm ambient temperature. Adipose cells from the atrophic area were smaller than those from the hypertropic area, but the atrophic cells were only 65% of the volume of the hypertrophic cells by two different methods. Thus, loss of cells occurred. Glucose-1(-14)C utilization and in vitro lipolysis were similar in the two cell preparations; the difference were explicable by cell size and did not suggest a metabolic abnormality. Counts of unmyelinated nerves were similar in the two areas. These findings indicate that in this patient the lipodystrophy was associated with normal fat cells and an autonomic dysfunction. However, the findings cannot completely explain the pathogenesis of her disorder. Loss of fat cells, rather than symmetrical shrinkage, occurred in the upper half of the body.", "contents": "Adipose cell morphology and control of lipolysis in a patient with partial lipodystrophy. A previously unreported patient with partial (cephalothoracic) lipodystrophy is described. Glucose tolerance and plasma lipids were normal, but plasma insulin increased to 340 muU/ml during an oral glucose tolerance test. Plasma free fatty acids were appropriately suppressed by oral glucose, insulin, and nicotinic acid, and were increased by infusion of norepinephrine. The lipolytic responses was also normal in response to two stimuli for endogenous catecholamine release: upright posture and 2-deoxyglucose infusion. There was a gradual development of postural hypotension in response to upright posture despite appropriate reflex tachycardia. Anhidrosis was present over the lower half of the body during this test, in a distribution corresponding to the area of adipose tissue hypertrophy. Anhidrosis was also seen in this region in response to warm ambient temperature. Adipose cells from the atrophic area were smaller than those from the hypertropic area, but the atrophic cells were only 65% of the volume of the hypertrophic cells by two different methods. Thus, loss of cells occurred. Glucose-1(-14)C utilization and in vitro lipolysis were similar in the two cell preparations; the difference were explicable by cell size and did not suggest a metabolic abnormality. Counts of unmyelinated nerves were similar in the two areas. These findings indicate that in this patient the lipodystrophy was associated with normal fat cells and an autonomic dysfunction. However, the findings cannot completely explain the pathogenesis of her disorder. Loss of fat cells, rather than symmetrical shrinkage, occurred in the upper half of the body.", "PMID": 449692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9125", "title": "Atropine suppression of basal and metoclopramide-induced human pancreatic polypeptide secretion in man.", "content": "The administration of metoclopramide (MET) increased human pancreatic polypeptide (hPP) levels in 17 of 18 male and female control subjects. In all the control subjects, the increase was from a mean (+/- SD) basal level of 96 +/- 60 pg/ml, to a peak of 221 +/- 170 pg/ml. The peak occurred at 30 min, and levels had decreased by 60 min in all subjects. Atropine pretreatment in five male control subjects significantly decreased basal hPP levels and completely abolished the response to MET. It thus likely that the hPP increase consequent to MET administration is related to the latter's cholinergic properties.", "contents": "Atropine suppression of basal and metoclopramide-induced human pancreatic polypeptide secretion in man. The administration of metoclopramide (MET) increased human pancreatic polypeptide (hPP) levels in 17 of 18 male and female control subjects. In all the control subjects, the increase was from a mean (+/- SD) basal level of 96 +/- 60 pg/ml, to a peak of 221 +/- 170 pg/ml. The peak occurred at 30 min, and levels had decreased by 60 min in all subjects. Atropine pretreatment in five male control subjects significantly decreased basal hPP levels and completely abolished the response to MET. It thus likely that the hPP increase consequent to MET administration is related to the latter's cholinergic properties.", "PMID": 449693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9126", "title": "Primary oxalosis: clinical and biochemical response to high-dose pyridoxine therapy.", "content": "Although pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6) is known to reduce the endogenous production of oxalate in some individuals with primary oxalosis, the dose for a satisfactory trial of treatment is not established. We report two cases of primary oxalosis on a daily regimen of 1 g pyridoxine hydrochloride, in which 24-hr urinary oxalate excretion decreased by 60% and 70%, respectively, with corresponding clinical benefit. The responses have been sustained up to 2.5 yr in one case, and 20 mo in the other. In the patient with renal failure, serum creatinine decreased from 243 to 146 mumole/liter after 15 mo of treatment. The decrease in glycollic acid excretion in both patients was consistent with an increase of glyoxalate transaminase activity by the vitamin. Supranormal levels of erythrocyte glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (egot) activity were observed during therapy, and these may be useful as a measure of the effective dose of pyridoxine.", "contents": "Primary oxalosis: clinical and biochemical response to high-dose pyridoxine therapy. Although pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6) is known to reduce the endogenous production of oxalate in some individuals with primary oxalosis, the dose for a satisfactory trial of treatment is not established. We report two cases of primary oxalosis on a daily regimen of 1 g pyridoxine hydrochloride, in which 24-hr urinary oxalate excretion decreased by 60% and 70%, respectively, with corresponding clinical benefit. The responses have been sustained up to 2.5 yr in one case, and 20 mo in the other. In the patient with renal failure, serum creatinine decreased from 243 to 146 mumole/liter after 15 mo of treatment. The decrease in glycollic acid excretion in both patients was consistent with an increase of glyoxalate transaminase activity by the vitamin. Supranormal levels of erythrocyte glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (egot) activity were observed during therapy, and these may be useful as a measure of the effective dose of pyridoxine.", "PMID": 449695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9127", "title": "Evaluation of the control of glucagon secretion by the parasympathetic nervous system in man.", "content": "To evaluate the influence of the parasympathetic nervous system on human glucagon secretion, we have measured the plasma immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) levels after the administration of edrophonium, bethanechol chloride, and 2-deoxyglucose, and have compared the IRG responses to hypoglycemia in normal, atropinized, and vagotomized man. Edrophonium administered i.v. and bethanechol chloride administered s.c. did not affect IRG levels. Two-deoxy-glucose resulted in symptomatic neuroglucopenia with resultant vagal discharge, as evidenced by increased gastric acid secretion; but no changes in IRG concentrations were observed. The IRG response to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in normal subjects was not influenced by the administration of atropine. In seven subjects with a truncal vagotomy and no increased gastric acid secretion during insulin-induced hypoglycemia, the IRG increases were indistinguishable from those of control subjects in terms of timing, peak level obtained, or total glucagon response. We conclude that the cholinergic system is unlikely to play an important role in modulating glucagon secretion in man.", "contents": "Evaluation of the control of glucagon secretion by the parasympathetic nervous system in man. To evaluate the influence of the parasympathetic nervous system on human glucagon secretion, we have measured the plasma immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) levels after the administration of edrophonium, bethanechol chloride, and 2-deoxyglucose, and have compared the IRG responses to hypoglycemia in normal, atropinized, and vagotomized man. Edrophonium administered i.v. and bethanechol chloride administered s.c. did not affect IRG levels. Two-deoxy-glucose resulted in symptomatic neuroglucopenia with resultant vagal discharge, as evidenced by increased gastric acid secretion; but no changes in IRG concentrations were observed. The IRG response to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in normal subjects was not influenced by the administration of atropine. In seven subjects with a truncal vagotomy and no increased gastric acid secretion during insulin-induced hypoglycemia, the IRG increases were indistinguishable from those of control subjects in terms of timing, peak level obtained, or total glucagon response. We conclude that the cholinergic system is unlikely to play an important role in modulating glucagon secretion in man.", "PMID": 449696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9128", "title": "Caval occlusion technique for hepatic venous sampling: a new approach to estimating splanchnic substrate balance in conscious dogs.", "content": "We have proposed a new technique for sampling hepatic venous blood in conscious dogs. Sub-hepatic vena caval blood flow was temporarily occluded by a previously implanted inflatable snare so that all blood entering the inferior vena cava was hepatic venous effluent. Hepatic venous blood samples were collected from the inferior vena cava 8 seconds after beginning caval occlusion, with the total interval of flow occlusion lasting 12 to 15 seconds. No behavioral or metabolic alterations were observed when or metabolic alterations were observed when hepatic venous effluent was repetitively sampled using the caval occlusion technique. Net splanchnic glucose balance (NSGB) was measured in conscious dogs receiving saline, glucose or glucagon infusions. NSGB measurements made with the caval occlusion technique were in accord with previous results obtained via tracer methodology or arterio-venous difference techniques utilizing hepatic vein catheterization. The caval occlusion technique thus provides a method for collecting hepatic venous blood samples from conscious animals without the difficulties associated with hepatic vein catheterization.", "contents": "Caval occlusion technique for hepatic venous sampling: a new approach to estimating splanchnic substrate balance in conscious dogs. We have proposed a new technique for sampling hepatic venous blood in conscious dogs. Sub-hepatic vena caval blood flow was temporarily occluded by a previously implanted inflatable snare so that all blood entering the inferior vena cava was hepatic venous effluent. Hepatic venous blood samples were collected from the inferior vena cava 8 seconds after beginning caval occlusion, with the total interval of flow occlusion lasting 12 to 15 seconds. No behavioral or metabolic alterations were observed when or metabolic alterations were observed when hepatic venous effluent was repetitively sampled using the caval occlusion technique. Net splanchnic glucose balance (NSGB) was measured in conscious dogs receiving saline, glucose or glucagon infusions. NSGB measurements made with the caval occlusion technique were in accord with previous results obtained via tracer methodology or arterio-venous difference techniques utilizing hepatic vein catheterization. The caval occlusion technique thus provides a method for collecting hepatic venous blood samples from conscious animals without the difficulties associated with hepatic vein catheterization.", "PMID": 449697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9129", "title": "Effects of insulin on the response of immunoreactive glucagon to an intravenous glucose load in human diabetes.", "content": "The effects of exogenous insulin upon the response of immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) to i.v. glucose were studied in diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. In nondiabetics, a rapid injection of 25 g of glucose lowered plasma IRG levels. In adult-onset diabetics, the glucose-induced decline in IRG was normal despite a subnormal glucose-induced insulin rise, in contrast to impaired IRG suppressibility previously reported when such patients received an oral glucose load. The magnitude of their glucose-induced IRG decline was not augmented by exogenous insulin, even when insulin levels were acutely raised above 300 micro units/ml. In juvenile-type diabetics, basal IRG levels were normal following overnight insulin infusion, but the glucose-induced IRG decline was only half that of the nondiabetics. However, it became normal when hyperinsulinemia was acutely produced by supplementary insulin. Thus, whenever insulin levels rise in response to an increase in hyperglycemia, as they do spontaneously in nondiabetics and in adult-type diabetics and as they do when juvenile diabetics are given supplementary insulin together with the glucose bolus, the decline in IRG in response to an i.v. glucose load is as great as in nondiabetics. The findings are compatible with the view that glucose-induced suppression of IRG may require a concomitant rise in insulin.", "contents": "Effects of insulin on the response of immunoreactive glucagon to an intravenous glucose load in human diabetes. The effects of exogenous insulin upon the response of immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) to i.v. glucose were studied in diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. In nondiabetics, a rapid injection of 25 g of glucose lowered plasma IRG levels. In adult-onset diabetics, the glucose-induced decline in IRG was normal despite a subnormal glucose-induced insulin rise, in contrast to impaired IRG suppressibility previously reported when such patients received an oral glucose load. The magnitude of their glucose-induced IRG decline was not augmented by exogenous insulin, even when insulin levels were acutely raised above 300 micro units/ml. In juvenile-type diabetics, basal IRG levels were normal following overnight insulin infusion, but the glucose-induced IRG decline was only half that of the nondiabetics. However, it became normal when hyperinsulinemia was acutely produced by supplementary insulin. Thus, whenever insulin levels rise in response to an increase in hyperglycemia, as they do spontaneously in nondiabetics and in adult-type diabetics and as they do when juvenile diabetics are given supplementary insulin together with the glucose bolus, the decline in IRG in response to an i.v. glucose load is as great as in nondiabetics. The findings are compatible with the view that glucose-induced suppression of IRG may require a concomitant rise in insulin.", "PMID": 449698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9130", "title": "Serum levels of neurophysin in pregnancy and in the postpartum period: relation to 17beta-estradiol levels.", "content": "Changes in serum neurophysin levels were studied in women during normal pregnancy and after delivery. Neurophysin was elevated as early as the sixth week of gestation and gradually increased until, at the latest, the twentieth week. A significant positive correlation was obtained between serum concentrations of neurophysin and those of 17beta-estradiol. In serum samples with 17beta-estradiol levels exceeding 5 ng/ml, neurophysin was consistently elevated above the normal control range. After delivery, serum neurophysin concentrations declined quite rapidly. The levels returned to those of nonpregnant women by 6 days postpartum. These results support the view that a high rate of secretion of 17beta-estradiol may be one of the factors responsible for the elevated levels of serum neurophysin in pregnancy and that this effect disappears rapidly after the disposal of estrogen, independent of the duration of the elevated estrogen levels.", "contents": "Serum levels of neurophysin in pregnancy and in the postpartum period: relation to 17beta-estradiol levels. Changes in serum neurophysin levels were studied in women during normal pregnancy and after delivery. Neurophysin was elevated as early as the sixth week of gestation and gradually increased until, at the latest, the twentieth week. A significant positive correlation was obtained between serum concentrations of neurophysin and those of 17beta-estradiol. In serum samples with 17beta-estradiol levels exceeding 5 ng/ml, neurophysin was consistently elevated above the normal control range. After delivery, serum neurophysin concentrations declined quite rapidly. The levels returned to those of nonpregnant women by 6 days postpartum. These results support the view that a high rate of secretion of 17beta-estradiol may be one of the factors responsible for the elevated levels of serum neurophysin in pregnancy and that this effect disappears rapidly after the disposal of estrogen, independent of the duration of the elevated estrogen levels.", "PMID": 449701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9131", "title": "Effects of long-term physical training on body fat, metabolism, and blood pressure in obesity.", "content": "Twenty-seven women with varying degrees of obesity were physically trained for 6 mo on an ad lib. diet. Body fat changes were positively correlated with the number of fat cells in adipose tissue. Obese women with fewer fat cells decreased in weight during training whereas women with severe obesity and an increased number of fat cells even gained weight. Blood pressure decreased consistently after training. Blood pressure elevation was not associated with body fat mass, nor was a decrease in blood pressure associated with a decrease in body fat or with pretraining blood pressure level. There were, instead, correlations between decreases in blood pressure on the one hand and initial concentrations and decreases in plasma insulin and triglycerides and blood glucose on the other. These results suggest an association between elevated blood pressure and metabolic variables. The possibility of treating and preventing early essential hypertension with methods that also correct the metabolic derangement, such as diet and exercise, should be given high priority in further research.", "contents": "Effects of long-term physical training on body fat, metabolism, and blood pressure in obesity. Twenty-seven women with varying degrees of obesity were physically trained for 6 mo on an ad lib. diet. Body fat changes were positively correlated with the number of fat cells in adipose tissue. Obese women with fewer fat cells decreased in weight during training whereas women with severe obesity and an increased number of fat cells even gained weight. Blood pressure decreased consistently after training. Blood pressure elevation was not associated with body fat mass, nor was a decrease in blood pressure associated with a decrease in body fat or with pretraining blood pressure level. There were, instead, correlations between decreases in blood pressure on the one hand and initial concentrations and decreases in plasma insulin and triglycerides and blood glucose on the other. These results suggest an association between elevated blood pressure and metabolic variables. The possibility of treating and preventing early essential hypertension with methods that also correct the metabolic derangement, such as diet and exercise, should be given high priority in further research.", "PMID": 449704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9132", "title": "Uptake of glycine by human kidney cortex.", "content": "The transport of glycine was investigated in histologically normal adult human kidney cortical slices. Uptake occurs against a gradient and shows concentration dependence. Kinetic analysis reveals two systems for transport of glycine with apparent transport Km values of 0.511 and 34.2 mM. Glycine transport on the high-Km system is competitively inhibited by 50 mML-proline. Transport inhibition on the low-Km system could not be directly evaluated, but on theoretic grounds appears not to be inhibited by L-proline or hydroxyproline. Alpha-aminoisobutyric acid, valine, and thioproline are also shown to inhibit glycine uptake. Low medium sodium or anaerobic incubation depress the uptake of glycine. These observations are consistent with previous reports of glycine transport in rat kidney and support the proposals for the mechanism of familial iminoglycinuria based on in vivo investigations.", "contents": "Uptake of glycine by human kidney cortex. The transport of glycine was investigated in histologically normal adult human kidney cortical slices. Uptake occurs against a gradient and shows concentration dependence. Kinetic analysis reveals two systems for transport of glycine with apparent transport Km values of 0.511 and 34.2 mM. Glycine transport on the high-Km system is competitively inhibited by 50 mML-proline. Transport inhibition on the low-Km system could not be directly evaluated, but on theoretic grounds appears not to be inhibited by L-proline or hydroxyproline. Alpha-aminoisobutyric acid, valine, and thioproline are also shown to inhibit glycine uptake. Low medium sodium or anaerobic incubation depress the uptake of glycine. These observations are consistent with previous reports of glycine transport in rat kidney and support the proposals for the mechanism of familial iminoglycinuria based on in vivo investigations.", "PMID": 449705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9133", "title": "Fasting as a provocative test in neuromuscular diseases.", "content": "A 38-hr fast was used as a provocative test in patients suspected of having defects in muscle substrate utilization. In five controls and nine patients, exercise capacity and respiratory exchange ratio were determined before and at the end of the fast. Blood was collected at intervals during the fast from ten controls and nine patients for creatine kinase (CK), free fatty acids, (FFA) beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, free and total carnitine, glucose, and alanine. Two patients with myophosphorylase deficiency had increased exercise capacity, and a marked fall in CK, and one had a lesser fall in blood glucose than normal at the end of the fast. Two patients with known lipid myopathies (carnitine deficiency and carnitine palmityl transferase deficiency) had decreased exercise capacity and apparent increased dependence on carbohydrate metabolism during the fast. Carnitine concentrations became even more abnormal in the patient with carnitine deficiency during fasting. Several patients with less well-defined defects were also significantly different from the controls in several respects, indicating that the fast might be useful for finding new defects.", "contents": "Fasting as a provocative test in neuromuscular diseases. A 38-hr fast was used as a provocative test in patients suspected of having defects in muscle substrate utilization. In five controls and nine patients, exercise capacity and respiratory exchange ratio were determined before and at the end of the fast. Blood was collected at intervals during the fast from ten controls and nine patients for creatine kinase (CK), free fatty acids, (FFA) beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, free and total carnitine, glucose, and alanine. Two patients with myophosphorylase deficiency had increased exercise capacity, and a marked fall in CK, and one had a lesser fall in blood glucose than normal at the end of the fast. Two patients with known lipid myopathies (carnitine deficiency and carnitine palmityl transferase deficiency) had decreased exercise capacity and apparent increased dependence on carbohydrate metabolism during the fast. Carnitine concentrations became even more abnormal in the patient with carnitine deficiency during fasting. Several patients with less well-defined defects were also significantly different from the controls in several respects, indicating that the fast might be useful for finding new defects.", "PMID": 449706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9134", "title": "Diabetes, blood lipids, lipoproteins, and change of environment: restudy of the \"new immigrant Yemenites\" in Israel.", "content": "Restudy of 306 \"new immigrant Yemenite\" Jews, an ethnic group in which, upon their arrival in Israel, no diabetes was detected, revealed, 25 yr after their immigration, an increased incidence of diabetes and higher plasma and lipoprotein-lipid levels. The prevalence of diabetes (defined as \"glucose intolerance\") rose to 11.8% (13.2% males and 9.7% females). Obesity in females resulted in increased prevalence of diabetes in all age groups, while in males it affected the older age group only. The male/female diabetic ratio was affected by weight status--in the underweight, diabetes was more prevalent in males, in the overweight, the rate of diabetes in females equaled that of males. In nondiabetics (those with normal glucose tolerance), neither the glucose tolerance nor the insulin response deteriorated with aging. Most diabetics had a delayed insulin response. However, about 50% of nondiabetics and diabetics had insulin response peak at 60 min and similar insulin levels. It appears that in newly discovered adult-onset diabetics in this population there is no shortage of insulin, but rather shortage of insulin action. In nondiabetics, the levels of plasma cholesterol and triglycerides (TG) were higher than levels upon their arrival. In diabetics, the plasma TG, cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol levels were higher when compared to those of nondiabetics, especially in the group of overweight males. Hyperlipoproteinemia was diagnosed in 27.7% of diabetics and 11.0% of nondiabetics. In diabetics, the HDL/LDL cholesterol ratio was found to be reduced, significantly so in overweight diabetics.", "contents": "Diabetes, blood lipids, lipoproteins, and change of environment: restudy of the \"new immigrant Yemenites\" in Israel. Restudy of 306 \"new immigrant Yemenite\" Jews, an ethnic group in which, upon their arrival in Israel, no diabetes was detected, revealed, 25 yr after their immigration, an increased incidence of diabetes and higher plasma and lipoprotein-lipid levels. The prevalence of diabetes (defined as \"glucose intolerance\") rose to 11.8% (13.2% males and 9.7% females). Obesity in females resulted in increased prevalence of diabetes in all age groups, while in males it affected the older age group only. The male/female diabetic ratio was affected by weight status--in the underweight, diabetes was more prevalent in males, in the overweight, the rate of diabetes in females equaled that of males. In nondiabetics (those with normal glucose tolerance), neither the glucose tolerance nor the insulin response deteriorated with aging. Most diabetics had a delayed insulin response. However, about 50% of nondiabetics and diabetics had insulin response peak at 60 min and similar insulin levels. It appears that in newly discovered adult-onset diabetics in this population there is no shortage of insulin, but rather shortage of insulin action. In nondiabetics, the levels of plasma cholesterol and triglycerides (TG) were higher than levels upon their arrival. In diabetics, the plasma TG, cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol levels were higher when compared to those of nondiabetics, especially in the group of overweight males. Hyperlipoproteinemia was diagnosed in 27.7% of diabetics and 11.0% of nondiabetics. In diabetics, the HDL/LDL cholesterol ratio was found to be reduced, significantly so in overweight diabetics.", "PMID": 449707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9135", "title": "The response of bone apposition rate to some nonphysiologic conditions.", "content": "The response of bone apposition to some nonphysiologic conditions was investigated. In rabbits, the normal osteogenic rhythm was totally abolished shortly following treatment of hydrocortisone at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight daily. A new rhythm developed after the treatment was continued for 20 1/2--34 days. The rate of bone apposition was significantly depressed compared to normal data reported previously. In rats receiving one U.S.P. unit of parathyroid extract daily for 14 days, the rate of bone apposition was significantly higher than that in control rats. In both sepcies, the response to an exogenous hormone was identified for all skeletal locations. It was concluded that new bone apposition was a function of activated osteoblasts, and that this function responded only to general body control mechanisms.", "contents": "The response of bone apposition rate to some nonphysiologic conditions. The response of bone apposition to some nonphysiologic conditions was investigated. In rabbits, the normal osteogenic rhythm was totally abolished shortly following treatment of hydrocortisone at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight daily. A new rhythm developed after the treatment was continued for 20 1/2--34 days. The rate of bone apposition was significantly depressed compared to normal data reported previously. In rats receiving one U.S.P. unit of parathyroid extract daily for 14 days, the rate of bone apposition was significantly higher than that in control rats. In both sepcies, the response to an exogenous hormone was identified for all skeletal locations. It was concluded that new bone apposition was a function of activated osteoblasts, and that this function responded only to general body control mechanisms.", "PMID": 449710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9136", "title": "Further development and automation of a high pressure liquid chromatography method for the determination of glycosylated hemoglobins.", "content": "A previously described high pressure liquid chromatography system for the determination of glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations has been automated and simplified. With this methodology it is possible to perform up to 60 analyses per day for hemoglobin A1a+b% and hemoglobin A1c%. Where an estimate of the total fast hemoglobin alone is required, then a considerably greater number of analyses can be performed. The individual values are calculated directly with an electronic integrator. The mean coefficient of variation of the duplicate determinations of 48 samples was 0.63 +/- 0.83% (mean +/- SD). Aliquots of pooled hemolysates have been maintained in liquid nitrogen at -90 degrees C and run at the beginning and end of each daily analytical run over an 18-mo period. Both the inter- and intra-run coefficients of variation of these values have remained consistently less than 3%. Therefore, the methodology offers a reliable and accurate method of containing glycosylated hemoglobin values for clinical use.", "contents": "Further development and automation of a high pressure liquid chromatography method for the determination of glycosylated hemoglobins. A previously described high pressure liquid chromatography system for the determination of glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations has been automated and simplified. With this methodology it is possible to perform up to 60 analyses per day for hemoglobin A1a+b% and hemoglobin A1c%. Where an estimate of the total fast hemoglobin alone is required, then a considerably greater number of analyses can be performed. The individual values are calculated directly with an electronic integrator. The mean coefficient of variation of the duplicate determinations of 48 samples was 0.63 +/- 0.83% (mean +/- SD). Aliquots of pooled hemolysates have been maintained in liquid nitrogen at -90 degrees C and run at the beginning and end of each daily analytical run over an 18-mo period. Both the inter- and intra-run coefficients of variation of these values have remained consistently less than 3%. Therefore, the methodology offers a reliable and accurate method of containing glycosylated hemoglobin values for clinical use.", "PMID": 449713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9137", "title": "Cultural factors affecting the use of family planning services in an Aboriginal community.", "content": "The attitudes of the women of an Aboriginal community towards family size, spacing, and planning are briefly reviewed. It is shown that the felt need of the women for a means of control of reproduction and their approval of contraception is not matched by the use of the available family planning services. It is suggested that this gap between attitudes and use is due to the lack of practical recognition by the providers of these services of the indigenous conventions which surround the discussion and management of menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and contraception. Several ways in which family planning services could be made more acceptable culturally to both women and men of Aboriginal communities are proposed.", "contents": "Cultural factors affecting the use of family planning services in an Aboriginal community. The attitudes of the women of an Aboriginal community towards family size, spacing, and planning are briefly reviewed. It is shown that the felt need of the women for a means of control of reproduction and their approval of contraception is not matched by the use of the available family planning services. It is suggested that this gap between attitudes and use is due to the lack of practical recognition by the providers of these services of the indigenous conventions which surround the discussion and management of menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and contraception. Several ways in which family planning services could be made more acceptable culturally to both women and men of Aboriginal communities are proposed.", "PMID": 449741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9138", "title": "Respiratory function in aboriginal school children.", "content": "Two hundred and three school-age Aboriginal children living on Cherbourg Aboriginal Settlement have had lung function tested with a dry spirometer. As with other non-Caucasian children, the forced vital capacity (FVC) was about 25% below values for Caucasian children, but the ratio between forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC ratio), the mean mid-expiratory flow rate (MMEFR) and testing before and after a bronchodilator showed no evidence of widespread airways disease. Analysis of a subgroup of 126 children showed that birthweight, weight at one year of age, and current nutrition did not affect the level of the FVC.", "contents": "Respiratory function in aboriginal school children. Two hundred and three school-age Aboriginal children living on Cherbourg Aboriginal Settlement have had lung function tested with a dry spirometer. As with other non-Caucasian children, the forced vital capacity (FVC) was about 25% below values for Caucasian children, but the ratio between forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC ratio), the mean mid-expiratory flow rate (MMEFR) and testing before and after a bronchodilator showed no evidence of widespread airways disease. Analysis of a subgroup of 126 children showed that birthweight, weight at one year of age, and current nutrition did not affect the level of the FVC.", "PMID": 449742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9139", "title": "Attitudes towards family planning among the women of a Northern Australian Aboriginal community.", "content": "The results of a survey of the attitudes of 92 women from an Aboriginal community towards childbearing and family planning are presented. The majority of the women stated a preference for well-spaced families of a size which enabled a mother to care adequately for her children. The respondents were almost unanimously in favour of the use, when desired, of Western contraceptive methods. One of the authors (JR) suggests that these attitudes reflect traditional norms of family structure, and that they are also based on a critical appraisal by the women of the community of the demands of caring for young children. These demands are exacerbated by a depressed socioeconomic environment.", "contents": "Attitudes towards family planning among the women of a Northern Australian Aboriginal community. The results of a survey of the attitudes of 92 women from an Aboriginal community towards childbearing and family planning are presented. The majority of the women stated a preference for well-spaced families of a size which enabled a mother to care adequately for her children. The respondents were almost unanimously in favour of the use, when desired, of Western contraceptive methods. One of the authors (JR) suggests that these attitudes reflect traditional norms of family structure, and that they are also based on a critical appraisal by the women of the community of the demands of caring for young children. These demands are exacerbated by a depressed socioeconomic environment.", "PMID": 449743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9140", "title": "Infant mortality in 12 Aboriginal settlements: Queensland, 1972--1976.", "content": "The infant mortality rate amongst Aborigines from 12 Queensland Aboriginal settlements and missions over the years 1972 to 1976 was 72 per 1000 live births. This rate is comparable with that for Queensland of 60 years ago. The Aboriginal infants had twice the present-day Queensland risk of neonatal death and eight times the risk of postneonatal death. Prematurity was the major cause of neonatal deaths; gastroenteritis and pneumonia were the major causes of infant deaths. These rates emphasise the need for community and preventive health care for the Aboriginal children, particularly during the postneonatal period.", "contents": "Infant mortality in 12 Aboriginal settlements: Queensland, 1972--1976. The infant mortality rate amongst Aborigines from 12 Queensland Aboriginal settlements and missions over the years 1972 to 1976 was 72 per 1000 live births. This rate is comparable with that for Queensland of 60 years ago. The Aboriginal infants had twice the present-day Queensland risk of neonatal death and eight times the risk of postneonatal death. Prematurity was the major cause of neonatal deaths; gastroenteritis and pneumonia were the major causes of infant deaths. These rates emphasise the need for community and preventive health care for the Aboriginal children, particularly during the postneonatal period.", "PMID": 449744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9141", "title": "Schistosome dermatitis in the Swan Estuary, Western Australia.", "content": "The avian blood fluke, Austrobilharzia terrigalensis (Trematoda: Schistosomatidae), is recorded in Western Australia for the first time, and is implicated as the cause of dermatitis among users of the Swan estuary in Perth. Quantitative data provided by a questionnaire sent to affected people showed that infection occurred from November to March in the shallows throughout the \"middle\" estuary and that children from five to 14 years old were most frequently affected. Most cases of dermatitis were contracted between 11 a.m. and 12 noon--the time of day when the emergence of A. terrigalensis cercariae from the intermediate host, Velacumantus australis, reaches a peak. Exposure times varied considerably, but were generally between 30 and 90 minutes, with dermatitis appearing 12 to 24 hours later. The lesions, which were sometimes widespread over the body and itched severely, persisted for one to two weeks and longer if they were secondarily infected. Approximately 38% of affected people consulted doctors about their condition. These results are discussed in relation to findings on the ecology of the parasite's intermediate and definitive hosts.", "contents": "Schistosome dermatitis in the Swan Estuary, Western Australia. The avian blood fluke, Austrobilharzia terrigalensis (Trematoda: Schistosomatidae), is recorded in Western Australia for the first time, and is implicated as the cause of dermatitis among users of the Swan estuary in Perth. Quantitative data provided by a questionnaire sent to affected people showed that infection occurred from November to March in the shallows throughout the \"middle\" estuary and that children from five to 14 years old were most frequently affected. Most cases of dermatitis were contracted between 11 a.m. and 12 noon--the time of day when the emergence of A. terrigalensis cercariae from the intermediate host, Velacumantus australis, reaches a peak. Exposure times varied considerably, but were generally between 30 and 90 minutes, with dermatitis appearing 12 to 24 hours later. The lesions, which were sometimes widespread over the body and itched severely, persisted for one to two weeks and longer if they were secondarily infected. Approximately 38% of affected people consulted doctors about their condition. These results are discussed in relation to findings on the ecology of the parasite's intermediate and definitive hosts.", "PMID": 449750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9142", "title": "The radioisotope spleen scan in the assessment of patients with suspected spleen trauma.", "content": "The radioisotope spleen scan was reviewed in 29 patients with suspected trauma of the spleen who had been admitted for observation to a surgical ward. At the time of the study, all patients had stable pulse rates and blood pressures. The scans of six patients showed space defects and, of these, splenic injury was subsequently proven operatively in five patients. As a detector of splenic trauma, the radionuclide scan proved to be reliable. Although the findings of radioisotope scanning are not specific for trauma, the interpretation of the scan in conjunction with other observations increases the accuracy of diagnosis.", "contents": "The radioisotope spleen scan in the assessment of patients with suspected spleen trauma. The radioisotope spleen scan was reviewed in 29 patients with suspected trauma of the spleen who had been admitted for observation to a surgical ward. At the time of the study, all patients had stable pulse rates and blood pressures. The scans of six patients showed space defects and, of these, splenic injury was subsequently proven operatively in five patients. As a detector of splenic trauma, the radionuclide scan proved to be reliable. Although the findings of radioisotope scanning are not specific for trauma, the interpretation of the scan in conjunction with other observations increases the accuracy of diagnosis.", "PMID": 449751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9143", "title": "Granuloma inguinale in Northern Queensland.", "content": "Thirteen cases of granuloma inguinale were diagnosed in just over a twelve-month period at the Australian Government Health Laboratory and the General Hospital, Townsville. Seven patients were males, four of whom were immates of Her Majesty's Prison, Townsville. Two of the patients were married, and two were sisters. All the female patients were pregnant at the time of diagnosis. The provisional diagnosis was confirmed by the presence of intracytoplasmic Donovan bodies in crushed tissue smears stained with Wright's stain and pinacyanole. The diagnosis of granuloma inguinale could not be reliably made from sections of formalin-fixed tissue alone. The clinical findings, methods of laboratory diagnosis, management and treatment of this disease are also described with an added emphasis on treatment during pregnancy.", "contents": "Granuloma inguinale in Northern Queensland. Thirteen cases of granuloma inguinale were diagnosed in just over a twelve-month period at the Australian Government Health Laboratory and the General Hospital, Townsville. Seven patients were males, four of whom were immates of Her Majesty's Prison, Townsville. Two of the patients were married, and two were sisters. All the female patients were pregnant at the time of diagnosis. The provisional diagnosis was confirmed by the presence of intracytoplasmic Donovan bodies in crushed tissue smears stained with Wright's stain and pinacyanole. The diagnosis of granuloma inguinale could not be reliably made from sections of formalin-fixed tissue alone. The clinical findings, methods of laboratory diagnosis, management and treatment of this disease are also described with an added emphasis on treatment during pregnancy.", "PMID": 449752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9144", "title": "Solitary liver abscess: a continuing medicosurgical problem.", "content": "The management problems of 22 patients with solitary liver abscess are reviewed. To achieve earlier diagnosis, and reduce the high mortality rate of this condition (32% in this series), clinicians need to change their data base of the clinical presentation and also to incorporate liver imaging as part of the routine investigation of a patient with pyrexia of uncertain origin. The problems associated with operative diagnosis, and with methods of surgical drainage are discussed. The need for careful bacteriological cultures is emphasized, and the use of the most appropriate antibiotics is described. While in many cases the cause of the liver abscess remains unknown, in Australia the possibility of the abscess being amoebic or an infected hydatid cyst should be kept in mind.", "contents": "Solitary liver abscess: a continuing medicosurgical problem. The management problems of 22 patients with solitary liver abscess are reviewed. To achieve earlier diagnosis, and reduce the high mortality rate of this condition (32% in this series), clinicians need to change their data base of the clinical presentation and also to incorporate liver imaging as part of the routine investigation of a patient with pyrexia of uncertain origin. The problems associated with operative diagnosis, and with methods of surgical drainage are discussed. The need for careful bacteriological cultures is emphasized, and the use of the most appropriate antibiotics is described. While in many cases the cause of the liver abscess remains unknown, in Australia the possibility of the abscess being amoebic or an infected hydatid cyst should be kept in mind.", "PMID": 449753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9145", "title": "Fifty opiate addicts treated with methadone blockade. Eight-year follow up.", "content": "An extended follow up of the first 50 opiate addicts in Australasia to be treated with methadone blockade is described. At follow up, 43 patients were traced and assessed. Results show that 65% of the 43 patients completed the recommended three years of blockade therapy, with an identical proportion of patients recording no new criminal convictions; and 53.5% were reported as being drug-free, with the exception of prescribed methadone. The therapy in 28% of patients was judged as being completely successful, while 70% of patients complied with criteria of leading reasonably happy and productive lives. Methadone blockade (over 100 mg a day) offers the opiate addict an excellent opportunity for recovery and rehabilitation, provided that the treatment is properly understood, administered, and followed up.", "contents": "Fifty opiate addicts treated with methadone blockade. Eight-year follow up. An extended follow up of the first 50 opiate addicts in Australasia to be treated with methadone blockade is described. At follow up, 43 patients were traced and assessed. Results show that 65% of the 43 patients completed the recommended three years of blockade therapy, with an identical proportion of patients recording no new criminal convictions; and 53.5% were reported as being drug-free, with the exception of prescribed methadone. The therapy in 28% of patients was judged as being completely successful, while 70% of patients complied with criteria of leading reasonably happy and productive lives. Methadone blockade (over 100 mg a day) offers the opiate addict an excellent opportunity for recovery and rehabilitation, provided that the treatment is properly understood, administered, and followed up.", "PMID": 449754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9146", "title": "Acalculous cholecystitis: results of cholecystectomy.", "content": "The results in a small series of patients with clinical cholecystitis, but who had no stones, on whom operation was performed are compared with results in a larger series of patients who had stones. The results suggest that, if a clinical diagnosis is made and other causes of symptoms have been excluded, the results of operation are almost as successful as in those having stones. Patients should not be denied operative relief if the symptoms strongly suggest gall bladder disease even if no stones are shown on X-ray examination.", "contents": "Acalculous cholecystitis: results of cholecystectomy. The results in a small series of patients with clinical cholecystitis, but who had no stones, on whom operation was performed are compared with results in a larger series of patients who had stones. The results suggest that, if a clinical diagnosis is made and other causes of symptoms have been excluded, the results of operation are almost as successful as in those having stones. Patients should not be denied operative relief if the symptoms strongly suggest gall bladder disease even if no stones are shown on X-ray examination.", "PMID": 449755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9147", "title": "The interaction between ethanol and antihistamines: 2. Clemastine.", "content": "Eighty paid student volunteers (35 male, 45 female) were used in an experiment to investigate the effects of a therapeutic dose of clemastine (1 mg) alone and in combination with a social dose of ethanol (0.54 g/kg) on perceptual, cognitive and motor functions. Both drugs were given orally. Clemastine did not significantly modify performance when given alone, and the performance decrements induced by ethanol were not enhanced by clemastine premedication.", "contents": "The interaction between ethanol and antihistamines: 2. Clemastine. Eighty paid student volunteers (35 male, 45 female) were used in an experiment to investigate the effects of a therapeutic dose of clemastine (1 mg) alone and in combination with a social dose of ethanol (0.54 g/kg) on perceptual, cognitive and motor functions. Both drugs were given orally. Clemastine did not significantly modify performance when given alone, and the performance decrements induced by ethanol were not enhanced by clemastine premedication.", "PMID": 449773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9148", "title": "Metastatic medullary carcinoma of the thyroid complicated by Cushing's syndrome.", "content": "A patient with metastatic medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, Cushing's syndrome, and severe diarrhoea is presented. The manifestations of Cushing's syndrome were controlled with a combination of aminogluthethimide and metyrapone. The cause of the diarrhoea has not been found, and it remains resistant to treatment.", "contents": "Metastatic medullary carcinoma of the thyroid complicated by Cushing's syndrome. A patient with metastatic medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, Cushing's syndrome, and severe diarrhoea is presented. The manifestations of Cushing's syndrome were controlled with a combination of aminogluthethimide and metyrapone. The cause of the diarrhoea has not been found, and it remains resistant to treatment.", "PMID": 449774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9149", "title": "Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid presenting as fatal asphyxia.", "content": "Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid is a rare entity. Most cases present with a lump in the neck. An unusual presentation as fatal asphyxia is reported.", "contents": "Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid presenting as fatal asphyxia. Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid is a rare entity. Most cases present with a lump in the neck. An unusual presentation as fatal asphyxia is reported.", "PMID": 449775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9150", "title": "Glass laceration injuries and prevention.", "content": "Accidents involving glass in doors, sidelights, specially vulnerable windows, and shower screens are an important cause of injury, and occasionally death. Most of the injuries are superficial cuts and abrasions, but many involve deep lacerations of tendons, nerves and muscles. The accidents occur mainly in children and young adults with the highest rate being among males aged from 15 to 19 years. The number and severity of these injuries could be reduced through the wider use of appropriate forms of safety glazing: laminated glass or toughened glass in new installlations, and the application of a plastic safety film to existing glass.", "contents": "Glass laceration injuries and prevention. Accidents involving glass in doors, sidelights, specially vulnerable windows, and shower screens are an important cause of injury, and occasionally death. Most of the injuries are superficial cuts and abrasions, but many involve deep lacerations of tendons, nerves and muscles. The accidents occur mainly in children and young adults with the highest rate being among males aged from 15 to 19 years. The number and severity of these injuries could be reduced through the wider use of appropriate forms of safety glazing: laminated glass or toughened glass in new installlations, and the application of a plastic safety film to existing glass.", "PMID": 449776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9151", "title": "Physicians and death: some Australian data.", "content": "Despite a significant interest in bereavement in this country there are little hard data on attitudes to, beliefs about, and experiences with, death and dying in the Australian context. This paper reports the results of a survey in the area with special reference to the responses of medical practitioners and medical students.", "contents": "Physicians and death: some Australian data. Despite a significant interest in bereavement in this country there are little hard data on attitudes to, beliefs about, and experiences with, death and dying in the Australian context. This paper reports the results of a survey in the area with special reference to the responses of medical practitioners and medical students.", "PMID": 449777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9152", "title": "Testing hearing with the brain-stem evoked response.", "content": "The brain-stem electroencephalograph (EEG)-evoked response (BSER) constitutes a reliable and objective method of testing hearing in infants, and in uncooperative, or retarded patients. The procedure is harmless and painless, and involves recording the EEG brain-stem responses to clicks presented by headphones. The patient may be sedated, or even anaesthetized, if necessary. Because of the equipment and time involved, the procedure is not recommended as a routine screening procedure, but constitutes a valuable adjunct to conventional audiological testing, especially in doubtful cases.", "contents": "Testing hearing with the brain-stem evoked response. The brain-stem electroencephalograph (EEG)-evoked response (BSER) constitutes a reliable and objective method of testing hearing in infants, and in uncooperative, or retarded patients. The procedure is harmless and painless, and involves recording the EEG brain-stem responses to clicks presented by headphones. The patient may be sedated, or even anaesthetized, if necessary. Because of the equipment and time involved, the procedure is not recommended as a routine screening procedure, but constitutes a valuable adjunct to conventional audiological testing, especially in doubtful cases.", "PMID": 449778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9153", "title": "The effects on intellectual functioning of open prefrontal leucotomy.", "content": "The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and the Wechsler Memory Scale were administered to 32 patients both before and six months after they received open prefrontal leucotomies. The preoperative and postoperative test results are compared, consideration being given to individual patients as well as to the group. The mean results for the group provide no evidence of any post-operative intellectual deterioration. However, it seems probable that in individual cases such deterioration occurred. In most of these cases brain damage would appear to be responsible, and the ability \"to comprehend and size up a total situation\" is seen as the area of functioning primarily affected.", "contents": "The effects on intellectual functioning of open prefrontal leucotomy. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and the Wechsler Memory Scale were administered to 32 patients both before and six months after they received open prefrontal leucotomies. The preoperative and postoperative test results are compared, consideration being given to individual patients as well as to the group. The mean results for the group provide no evidence of any post-operative intellectual deterioration. However, it seems probable that in individual cases such deterioration occurred. In most of these cases brain damage would appear to be responsible, and the ability \"to comprehend and size up a total situation\" is seen as the area of functioning primarily affected.", "PMID": 449779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9154", "title": "Improved survival of patients with cystic fibrosis.", "content": "The survival of 320 patients, who were born in and after 1958 with cystic fibrosis and managed by the Departments of Thoracic Medicine and Gastroenterology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, is reviewed. Eighty per cent of patients survived to 11 years of age, and 64% to 18 years. Of patients managed between 1973 and 1977, 91% survived to 12 years of age, and 80% to 17 years of age. In the same period, 79% of patients survived for 16 years after diagnosis. Forty-four per cent of the 240 patients currently being managed have no significant permanent lung disease, and only 9% have advanced disease.", "contents": "Improved survival of patients with cystic fibrosis. The survival of 320 patients, who were born in and after 1958 with cystic fibrosis and managed by the Departments of Thoracic Medicine and Gastroenterology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, is reviewed. Eighty per cent of patients survived to 11 years of age, and 64% to 18 years. Of patients managed between 1973 and 1977, 91% survived to 12 years of age, and 80% to 17 years of age. In the same period, 79% of patients survived for 16 years after diagnosis. Forty-four per cent of the 240 patients currently being managed have no significant permanent lung disease, and only 9% have advanced disease.", "PMID": 449780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9155", "title": "Relationship between the time of birth and the development of immediate hypersensitivity to grass-pollen antigens.", "content": "Eighty-six children aged three to 14 years were skin-tested for immediate hypersensitivity to antigens which are seasonal (grass pollens) or non-seasonal (car, dog, house-dust mite) in occurrence. Children who reached the age of three months during a time of environmental exposure to grass pollen demonstrated a significantly increased incidence of immediate hypersensitivity reactions to three grass pollens, as compared with children born at other times of the year. No significant difference was found in their reactions to the non-seasonal antigens. These findings indicate a relationship between the time of birth and the subsequent development of immediate hypersensitivity in childhood. It is suggested that infants are particularly susceptible to sensitization when presented with antigen around three months of age.", "contents": "Relationship between the time of birth and the development of immediate hypersensitivity to grass-pollen antigens. Eighty-six children aged three to 14 years were skin-tested for immediate hypersensitivity to antigens which are seasonal (grass pollens) or non-seasonal (car, dog, house-dust mite) in occurrence. Children who reached the age of three months during a time of environmental exposure to grass pollen demonstrated a significantly increased incidence of immediate hypersensitivity reactions to three grass pollens, as compared with children born at other times of the year. No significant difference was found in their reactions to the non-seasonal antigens. These findings indicate a relationship between the time of birth and the subsequent development of immediate hypersensitivity in childhood. It is suggested that infants are particularly susceptible to sensitization when presented with antigen around three months of age.", "PMID": 449781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9156", "title": "Ureteric stricture associated with analgesic nephropathy.", "content": "A case of localized ureteric stricture in a woman with analgesic nephropathy is reported. The problems of diagnosis and management are briefly discussed.", "contents": "Ureteric stricture associated with analgesic nephropathy. A case of localized ureteric stricture in a woman with analgesic nephropathy is reported. The problems of diagnosis and management are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 449798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9157", "title": "Chlorbutol toxicity and dependence.", "content": "A case of chlorbutol toxicity and dependence is presented. A very long elimination half-life (13.2 days) was found in the patient. The data suggest that chlorbutol is an unsuitable sedative to be available freely to the public.", "contents": "Chlorbutol toxicity and dependence. A case of chlorbutol toxicity and dependence is presented. A very long elimination half-life (13.2 days) was found in the patient. The data suggest that chlorbutol is an unsuitable sedative to be available freely to the public.", "PMID": 449799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9158", "title": "The health of the preschool child.", "content": "A standardized medical examination of four to five year old children was introduced into Victorian preschools in 1977. This combined a neurodevelopmental screening with a physical examination. In a study to verify the effectiveness of this examination, a random sample of 512 children from inner urban and disadvantaged outer urban preschools was examined and compared with a group of 500 children from preschools in more advantaged areas. Of these 1012 children, 264 (26%) required referral for one or more previously unrecognized disabilities. The number of children referred for intervention or therapy from the disadvantaged group was 176 (34%) compared with 88 children (17.6%) from the more advantaged group. A standardized examination of the preschool child is desirable, so that consistently comparable results can be obtained and epidemiological trends can be more readily identified.", "contents": "The health of the preschool child. A standardized medical examination of four to five year old children was introduced into Victorian preschools in 1977. This combined a neurodevelopmental screening with a physical examination. In a study to verify the effectiveness of this examination, a random sample of 512 children from inner urban and disadvantaged outer urban preschools was examined and compared with a group of 500 children from preschools in more advantaged areas. Of these 1012 children, 264 (26%) required referral for one or more previously unrecognized disabilities. The number of children referred for intervention or therapy from the disadvantaged group was 176 (34%) compared with 88 children (17.6%) from the more advantaged group. A standardized examination of the preschool child is desirable, so that consistently comparable results can be obtained and epidemiological trends can be more readily identified.", "PMID": 449800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9159", "title": "Lung function in an Australian population: 1. Spirometric standards for non-smoking adults.", "content": "Relationships between age, height, weight and spirometry with FEV0.5, FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC are described for a sample of 6275 female and 6511 male non-smoking adults living in New South Wales. Prediction equations for ventilatory function tests are derived from non-smokers and compared with other standards that are available in a population sample of 31172 subjects. It is concluded that the standards described in this paper are more appropriate for use in Australian populations. Nomograms for predicting FEV1 and FVC in females and males are provided.", "contents": "Lung function in an Australian population: 1. Spirometric standards for non-smoking adults. Relationships between age, height, weight and spirometry with FEV0.5, FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC are described for a sample of 6275 female and 6511 male non-smoking adults living in New South Wales. Prediction equations for ventilatory function tests are derived from non-smokers and compared with other standards that are available in a population sample of 31172 subjects. It is concluded that the standards described in this paper are more appropriate for use in Australian populations. Nomograms for predicting FEV1 and FVC in females and males are provided.", "PMID": 449801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9160", "title": "Method of delivery and developmental outcome at five years of age.", "content": "A controlled follow-up study examined the impact of delivery method on developmental outcome of the child. The modes of delivery investigated were low forceps delivery (188 infants), midcavity forceps delivery (51 infants), forceps rotation with forceps delivery (57 infants), manual rotation with forceps delivery (67 infants), elective caesarean section (101 infants) and spontaneous delivery (control, 207 infants). Breech presentation (100 infants) was separately compared with the vertex presentation groups. Sample selection controlled for complications during pregnancy and low birthweight and was restricted to married English-speaking mothers. The children were assessed at the age of five years on verbal and non-verbal subtests of a standardized intelligence scale, tests of gross motor coordination, and auditory and visual tests. A full paediatric examination was also performed. Breech presentation children performed less well on tests of balance and fine motor coordination and on visual acuity and stereopsis testing than children who presented in the vertex position. No deleterious effect of delivery method was found. In the absence of other complicating events (like a poor antenatal history, prematurity, and a disorganized home environment) delivery complication constitutes an early risk factor which the growing child is able to overcome.", "contents": "Method of delivery and developmental outcome at five years of age. A controlled follow-up study examined the impact of delivery method on developmental outcome of the child. The modes of delivery investigated were low forceps delivery (188 infants), midcavity forceps delivery (51 infants), forceps rotation with forceps delivery (57 infants), manual rotation with forceps delivery (67 infants), elective caesarean section (101 infants) and spontaneous delivery (control, 207 infants). Breech presentation (100 infants) was separately compared with the vertex presentation groups. Sample selection controlled for complications during pregnancy and low birthweight and was restricted to married English-speaking mothers. The children were assessed at the age of five years on verbal and non-verbal subtests of a standardized intelligence scale, tests of gross motor coordination, and auditory and visual tests. A full paediatric examination was also performed. Breech presentation children performed less well on tests of balance and fine motor coordination and on visual acuity and stereopsis testing than children who presented in the vertex position. No deleterious effect of delivery method was found. In the absence of other complicating events (like a poor antenatal history, prematurity, and a disorganized home environment) delivery complication constitutes an early risk factor which the growing child is able to overcome.", "PMID": 449802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9161", "title": "Urinary ferritin protein in subjects with prosthetic heart valves and other disorders.", "content": "Twenty-four-hour urine ferritin protein excretion (UFPE) was elevated in the great majority of patients with prosthetic cardiac valves. In this group, there was a positive correlation with the presence of haemosiderin in the urine and with another indirect measure of reduced red-cell survival, namely, serum lactic dehydrogenase. In a number of hospital patients with various disorders, UFPE was also increased. In this latter group, however, there was no constant accompanying haemosiderinuria or elevation of lactic dehydrogenase. The measurement of UFPE can be added to the list of screening tests for intravascular haemolysis, but analysis of the different isoferritins in urine is necessary to fully understand the mechanism of excretion in the different groups.", "contents": "Urinary ferritin protein in subjects with prosthetic heart valves and other disorders. Twenty-four-hour urine ferritin protein excretion (UFPE) was elevated in the great majority of patients with prosthetic cardiac valves. In this group, there was a positive correlation with the presence of haemosiderin in the urine and with another indirect measure of reduced red-cell survival, namely, serum lactic dehydrogenase. In a number of hospital patients with various disorders, UFPE was also increased. In this latter group, however, there was no constant accompanying haemosiderinuria or elevation of lactic dehydrogenase. The measurement of UFPE can be added to the list of screening tests for intravascular haemolysis, but analysis of the different isoferritins in urine is necessary to fully understand the mechanism of excretion in the different groups.", "PMID": 449803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9162", "title": "The effects on personality of open prefrontal leucotomy.", "content": "The Sixteen Personality Factor Test was administered to 28 patients both before and six months after they received open prefrontal leucotomies. The preoperative and postoperative test results are compared. Preoperatively the group was excessively apprehensive, tense, affected by feelings, sober, shy, and humble. After leucotomy these aspects of personality all showed significant change in the direction of normality. With the exception of the humble versus assertive aspect, however, the mean scores in each case remained outside the normal range.", "contents": "The effects on personality of open prefrontal leucotomy. The Sixteen Personality Factor Test was administered to 28 patients both before and six months after they received open prefrontal leucotomies. The preoperative and postoperative test results are compared. Preoperatively the group was excessively apprehensive, tense, affected by feelings, sober, shy, and humble. After leucotomy these aspects of personality all showed significant change in the direction of normality. With the exception of the humble versus assertive aspect, however, the mean scores in each case remained outside the normal range.", "PMID": 449804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9163", "title": "Management of the neurogenic bowel using durolax solution.", "content": "A simple and effective bowel care regime is described which has been in use in the Spinal Injuries Unit at Prince Henry Hospital, Sydney, for more than 10 years. Three times a week, Durolax solution (bisacodyl 10 mg in 5 ml of propylene glycol), usually 5 mL undiluted or diluted with 5 mL of tap water, is introduced into the rectum using a catheter and syringe. A faecal softener is given 24 hours before the Durolax solution. Evacuation usually results within 30 minutes, tending to occur sooner with continued use of the regime. The procedure is well tolerated and there have been no serious problems.", "contents": "Management of the neurogenic bowel using durolax solution. A simple and effective bowel care regime is described which has been in use in the Spinal Injuries Unit at Prince Henry Hospital, Sydney, for more than 10 years. Three times a week, Durolax solution (bisacodyl 10 mg in 5 ml of propylene glycol), usually 5 mL undiluted or diluted with 5 mL of tap water, is introduced into the rectum using a catheter and syringe. A faecal softener is given 24 hours before the Durolax solution. Evacuation usually results within 30 minutes, tending to occur sooner with continued use of the regime. The procedure is well tolerated and there have been no serious problems.", "PMID": 449805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9164", "title": "Maternal deaths in South Australia 1970 to 1975.", "content": "During the period from 1970 to 1975 there were 128 087 confinements in South Australia and 30 maternal deaths were reported, representing a maternal mortality rate of 23 per 100 000 confinements which is lower than in previous reports. Twenty-one deaths were directly due to complications of pregnancy and childbirth, and nine were due to associated conditions. The fall in the maternal mortality rate was largely due to a reduction in the number of deaths from abortion and in the number of confinements to women in the higher-risk older age groups. Infection appeared for the first time as a major cause of maternal death. Avoidable factors may have contributed to 47% of the deaths.", "contents": "Maternal deaths in South Australia 1970 to 1975. During the period from 1970 to 1975 there were 128 087 confinements in South Australia and 30 maternal deaths were reported, representing a maternal mortality rate of 23 per 100 000 confinements which is lower than in previous reports. Twenty-one deaths were directly due to complications of pregnancy and childbirth, and nine were due to associated conditions. The fall in the maternal mortality rate was largely due to a reduction in the number of deaths from abortion and in the number of confinements to women in the higher-risk older age groups. Infection appeared for the first time as a major cause of maternal death. Avoidable factors may have contributed to 47% of the deaths.", "PMID": 449806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9165", "title": "Diazinon and porphyria cutanea tarda.", "content": "Cutaneous application of diazinon to rats over a period of 12 weeks gives rise to a condition biochemically indistinguishable from porphyria cutanea tarda. Faecal porphyrin levels are elevated with the appearance of isocoproporphyrin in the faeces. Oral administration of diazinon does not appear to cause any disturbance of porphyrin metabolism.", "contents": "Diazinon and porphyria cutanea tarda. Cutaneous application of diazinon to rats over a period of 12 weeks gives rise to a condition biochemically indistinguishable from porphyria cutanea tarda. Faecal porphyrin levels are elevated with the appearance of isocoproporphyrin in the faeces. Oral administration of diazinon does not appear to cause any disturbance of porphyrin metabolism.", "PMID": 449807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9166", "title": "Medications for the elderly.", "content": "Medications were checked by a trained nurse during the course of her duties in a controlled study of 150 elderly people with cerebrovascular disease. The cost of medications was marginally reduced in a group of people receiving the additional supervision, while it rose by 12.0% in a control group. In the group visited by the nurse, containers were labelled correctly for significantly more people than was the case with the control group.", "contents": "Medications for the elderly. Medications were checked by a trained nurse during the course of her duties in a controlled study of 150 elderly people with cerebrovascular disease. The cost of medications was marginally reduced in a group of people receiving the additional supervision, while it rose by 12.0% in a control group. In the group visited by the nurse, containers were labelled correctly for significantly more people than was the case with the control group.", "PMID": 449808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9167", "title": "How can I improve my teaching?", "content": "There is nothing mysterious about improving teaching. To learn to teach better teachers should: (a) be prepared and motivated to learn; (b) consider their needs and interests in order to specify whay they want to learn; (c) secure feedback and information in relation to the performance or skill they want to learn; and (d) try new teaching methods suggested by the feedback.", "contents": "How can I improve my teaching? There is nothing mysterious about improving teaching. To learn to teach better teachers should: (a) be prepared and motivated to learn; (b) consider their needs and interests in order to specify whay they want to learn; (c) secure feedback and information in relation to the performance or skill they want to learn; and (d) try new teaching methods suggested by the feedback.", "PMID": 449809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9168", "title": "A survey of adults with flame burns at a Melbourne hospital.", "content": "A prospective survey has been made of 81 patients with flame burns who were admitted to the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, in the years 1973 and 1974. Young males who got burnt in and around their homes were most frequently encountered. Indications of the importance of predisposing conditions, flammable liquids and apparel in the burn incidents are discussed together with the need for extension of the survey.", "contents": "A survey of adults with flame burns at a Melbourne hospital. A prospective survey has been made of 81 patients with flame burns who were admitted to the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, in the years 1973 and 1974. Young males who got burnt in and around their homes were most frequently encountered. Indications of the importance of predisposing conditions, flammable liquids and apparel in the burn incidents are discussed together with the need for extension of the survey.", "PMID": 449812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9169", "title": "Health of overseas students attending an Australian university.", "content": "The Asian students at Monash University, 80% of whom are seen at the University Health Service in any one year (and nearly all of them are seen over a three-year period) appear to be healthy and well-adjusted. They have no more and no less emotional problems than local students. The occasional severe breakdowns because of the difficulties that arise, impress themselves on memory, and can give rise to a false impression of the number of overseas students having severe emotional problems. The Asian students frequently have disorders of the upper part of the respiratory tract, especially hay fever. Their quieter behaviour makes them less accident prone. The Asian females show a much lower incidence of sexually transmitted diseases.", "contents": "Health of overseas students attending an Australian university. The Asian students at Monash University, 80% of whom are seen at the University Health Service in any one year (and nearly all of them are seen over a three-year period) appear to be healthy and well-adjusted. They have no more and no less emotional problems than local students. The occasional severe breakdowns because of the difficulties that arise, impress themselves on memory, and can give rise to a false impression of the number of overseas students having severe emotional problems. The Asian students frequently have disorders of the upper part of the respiratory tract, especially hay fever. Their quieter behaviour makes them less accident prone. The Asian females show a much lower incidence of sexually transmitted diseases.", "PMID": 449813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9170", "title": "Oxolinic acid in the treatment of urinary tract infections.", "content": "Oxolinic acid was successfully used in eradicating bacteriuria in 86% of a highly selected group of 42 patients with chronic and recurrent urinary infections. Thirty-eight (92%) of patients had underlying renal abnormalities, 19 (45%) had impaired renal function. Emergence of resistant organisms in 3 patients (7%), and a high incidence of side effects necessitating withdrawal of treatment in 12 patients (29%), limit the usefulness of this agent to special situations. In patients with moderate and severe renal impairment, oxolinic acid achieves adequate urinary concentration, does not accumulate in the serum and is not nephrotoxic. The drug is safe and effective to use in patients with renal impairment.", "contents": "Oxolinic acid in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Oxolinic acid was successfully used in eradicating bacteriuria in 86% of a highly selected group of 42 patients with chronic and recurrent urinary infections. Thirty-eight (92%) of patients had underlying renal abnormalities, 19 (45%) had impaired renal function. Emergence of resistant organisms in 3 patients (7%), and a high incidence of side effects necessitating withdrawal of treatment in 12 patients (29%), limit the usefulness of this agent to special situations. In patients with moderate and severe renal impairment, oxolinic acid achieves adequate urinary concentration, does not accumulate in the serum and is not nephrotoxic. The drug is safe and effective to use in patients with renal impairment.", "PMID": 449828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9171", "title": "Value of latex test in cryptococcal meningitis.", "content": "The history of a man suffering from chronic cryptococcal meningitis is presented. A series of cerebrospinal fluid and serum specimens from this patient were investigated retrospectively by latex agglutination for the presence of cryptococcal antigens. The results were related to other laboratory findings, and to the patient's clinical progress. The cryptococcal latex agglutination test was shown to be potentially useful in the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of such patients.", "contents": "Value of latex test in cryptococcal meningitis. The history of a man suffering from chronic cryptococcal meningitis is presented. A series of cerebrospinal fluid and serum specimens from this patient were investigated retrospectively by latex agglutination for the presence of cryptococcal antigens. The results were related to other laboratory findings, and to the patient's clinical progress. The cryptococcal latex agglutination test was shown to be potentially useful in the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of such patients.", "PMID": 449829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9172", "title": "Herpetic whitlow.", "content": "Three cases of herpetic whitlow are reported. This occupational hazard of medical and paramedical personnel caused by finger infection by ther herpes simplex virus is often confused with bacterial (pyogenic) infection of the pulp of the finger or thumb. Unnecessary surgical drainage may then be carried out, with prolongation of morbidity. Wider recognition of this entity should enable a correct clinical diagnosis to be made in every case. The treatment is conservative as the condition is self-limiting. Topical application of idoxuridine appears to be beneficial.", "contents": "Herpetic whitlow. Three cases of herpetic whitlow are reported. This occupational hazard of medical and paramedical personnel caused by finger infection by ther herpes simplex virus is often confused with bacterial (pyogenic) infection of the pulp of the finger or thumb. Unnecessary surgical drainage may then be carried out, with prolongation of morbidity. Wider recognition of this entity should enable a correct clinical diagnosis to be made in every case. The treatment is conservative as the condition is self-limiting. Topical application of idoxuridine appears to be beneficial.", "PMID": 449830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9173", "title": "Myocardial infarction in Queensland provincial cities, 1975.", "content": "A survey was made of patients admitted to hospitals with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in seven Queensland provincial cities between January 1, and December 31, 1975. Estimates of the incidence of, and mortality from, myocardial infarction are made, and details of the type of care offered, patient characteristics, and length of stay in hospital and intensive care units are presented.", "contents": "Myocardial infarction in Queensland provincial cities, 1975. A survey was made of patients admitted to hospitals with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in seven Queensland provincial cities between January 1, and December 31, 1975. Estimates of the incidence of, and mortality from, myocardial infarction are made, and details of the type of care offered, patient characteristics, and length of stay in hospital and intensive care units are presented.", "PMID": 449831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9174", "title": "Lung function in an Australian population: 2. Spirometric performance and cigarette-smoking habits.", "content": "The FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC% in 12016 females and 18 359 males were related to cigarette-smoking habits. Over all, non-smokers had significantly better lung function than cigarette smokers. Ex-smokers of either sex had significantly higher FEV1 and FEV1/FVC% than cigarette smokers, but the FVC values were higher only in females. With consumption in excess of 10 cigarettes per day, deterioration in lung function was manifest in both sexes, but was greater in males than females. The mean chronological age of males who smoked from 30 to 50 cigarettes per day was 12.9 years and 9.6 years less than would have been predicted on the basis of their FEV1 and FVC values respectively. The corresponding values in women were 9.3 years and 7.9 years respectively. Additionally, the deterioration in lung function with increasing age was greater in cigarette smokers than in non-smokers.", "contents": "Lung function in an Australian population: 2. Spirometric performance and cigarette-smoking habits. The FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC% in 12016 females and 18 359 males were related to cigarette-smoking habits. Over all, non-smokers had significantly better lung function than cigarette smokers. Ex-smokers of either sex had significantly higher FEV1 and FEV1/FVC% than cigarette smokers, but the FVC values were higher only in females. With consumption in excess of 10 cigarettes per day, deterioration in lung function was manifest in both sexes, but was greater in males than females. The mean chronological age of males who smoked from 30 to 50 cigarettes per day was 12.9 years and 9.6 years less than would have been predicted on the basis of their FEV1 and FVC values respectively. The corresponding values in women were 9.3 years and 7.9 years respectively. Additionally, the deterioration in lung function with increasing age was greater in cigarette smokers than in non-smokers.", "PMID": 449832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9175", "title": "Queensland tick typhus in Sydney: a new endemic focus.", "content": "A new endemic focus of Queensland tick typhus was defined when two cases of Rickettsia australis infection were recognized in Sydney. Although the tick vector is distributed throughout coastal, eastern Australia these are the first cases diagnosed south of Lismore, New South Wales.", "contents": "Queensland tick typhus in Sydney: a new endemic focus. A new endemic focus of Queensland tick typhus was defined when two cases of Rickettsia australis infection were recognized in Sydney. Although the tick vector is distributed throughout coastal, eastern Australia these are the first cases diagnosed south of Lismore, New South Wales.", "PMID": 449833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9176", "title": "[Clinical expressions of plasmocytoma (author's transl)].", "content": "Multiple myeloma is the most frequent type of hemoblastic disorders including paraproteinemia. Most cases show a disseminated involvement; few patients have solitary lesions of the bones or connective tissues. Different localizations are the reason for the multiform clinical picture of the disease. The main symptoms result from neurological and dermatological involvement, less usual are gastrointestinal complaints. Fractures, neurological deficiencies, lack of antibodies and failure of the kidneys determine the course of plasmocytoma. Our case reports are demonstrating examples of the different clinical expressions.", "contents": "[Clinical expressions of plasmocytoma (author's transl)]. Multiple myeloma is the most frequent type of hemoblastic disorders including paraproteinemia. Most cases show a disseminated involvement; few patients have solitary lesions of the bones or connective tissues. Different localizations are the reason for the multiform clinical picture of the disease. The main symptoms result from neurological and dermatological involvement, less usual are gastrointestinal complaints. Fractures, neurological deficiencies, lack of antibodies and failure of the kidneys determine the course of plasmocytoma. Our case reports are demonstrating examples of the different clinical expressions.", "PMID": 449834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9177", "title": "[Operative treatment of mamma carcinoma and its aftermath from the view of radiotherapist (author's transl)].", "content": "It is reported about 234 patients suffering from postoperative complications after mamma surgery due to carcinoma. All patients were postoperatively treated with a combined telecobalt and x-ray radiation. The results show that serious complications as lymphoedema and periphery neurologic disturbances depend in a great extent on the technique of surgery, especially when the axilla is involved by the cut direction. Postoperative complications of breast cancer are increased only insignificantly by radiatio. Therefore it is suggested to reduce the frequence of radical surgery, and modified radical surgery of breast cancer, in favour of single mastectomy plus postoperative radiation.", "contents": "[Operative treatment of mamma carcinoma and its aftermath from the view of radiotherapist (author's transl)]. It is reported about 234 patients suffering from postoperative complications after mamma surgery due to carcinoma. All patients were postoperatively treated with a combined telecobalt and x-ray radiation. The results show that serious complications as lymphoedema and periphery neurologic disturbances depend in a great extent on the technique of surgery, especially when the axilla is involved by the cut direction. Postoperative complications of breast cancer are increased only insignificantly by radiatio. Therefore it is suggested to reduce the frequence of radical surgery, and modified radical surgery of breast cancer, in favour of single mastectomy plus postoperative radiation.", "PMID": 449835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9178", "title": "[Leiomyoblastoma (epithelioid leiomyoma) of the stomach: a pathomorphological and retrospective study of 6 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "Gastric leiomyoblastoma is a well defined mesenchymal tumor originating from the smooth muscle tissue (tunica propria) of the body and pyloric antrum of the stomach. Although these tumors are usually benign, some of them may be malignant or potentially malignant. On gross inspection the mostly solitary lesions protrude hemispherically or polypoidly into the gastric lumen. The mucous membranes overlaying the tumor may be eroded or deeply ulcerated so that gastric hemorrhage is the most important clinical finding. Microscopically the tumor tissue is composed of large, rounded or polyhedral cells, which often contain empty vacuoles in their finely granulated acidophilic cytoplasm. The round or oval nuclei are located in the center or at the periphery of the cell, sometimes giving the impression of \"signet ring\" cells. The size and chromatin density of the nuclei may vary, mitotic figures are rare or missing. Often the tumor cells are disaggregated by accumulations of PAS-positive edema, which may also contain many large and confluent empty vacuoles. The reticulum stain reveals a dense network of fibers encircling individual or small groups of tumor cells, as it is characteristic for smooth muscle tissue. In 4 cases we observed small nodules, which were composed of concentrically arranged fibers and tumor cells resembling hemangiopericytoma without central blood vessel. During 6 years (1970 to 1975) we observed 6 cases of gastric leiomyoblastoma. None of these patients had evidence of recurrent disease or metastatic spread 2 to 6 1/2 years after operation and histological diagnosis of the tumor.", "contents": "[Leiomyoblastoma (epithelioid leiomyoma) of the stomach: a pathomorphological and retrospective study of 6 cases (author's transl)]. Gastric leiomyoblastoma is a well defined mesenchymal tumor originating from the smooth muscle tissue (tunica propria) of the body and pyloric antrum of the stomach. Although these tumors are usually benign, some of them may be malignant or potentially malignant. On gross inspection the mostly solitary lesions protrude hemispherically or polypoidly into the gastric lumen. The mucous membranes overlaying the tumor may be eroded or deeply ulcerated so that gastric hemorrhage is the most important clinical finding. Microscopically the tumor tissue is composed of large, rounded or polyhedral cells, which often contain empty vacuoles in their finely granulated acidophilic cytoplasm. The round or oval nuclei are located in the center or at the periphery of the cell, sometimes giving the impression of \"signet ring\" cells. The size and chromatin density of the nuclei may vary, mitotic figures are rare or missing. Often the tumor cells are disaggregated by accumulations of PAS-positive edema, which may also contain many large and confluent empty vacuoles. The reticulum stain reveals a dense network of fibers encircling individual or small groups of tumor cells, as it is characteristic for smooth muscle tissue. In 4 cases we observed small nodules, which were composed of concentrically arranged fibers and tumor cells resembling hemangiopericytoma without central blood vessel. During 6 years (1970 to 1975) we observed 6 cases of gastric leiomyoblastoma. None of these patients had evidence of recurrent disease or metastatic spread 2 to 6 1/2 years after operation and histological diagnosis of the tumor.", "PMID": 449836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9179", "title": "[Conditions for rational drug treatment in childhood (author's transl)].", "content": "In pediatrics it is difficult to define indications of drug therapy, appropriate dosage and therapeutic reliability of drugs because experimental pharmacology in this age group has many obstacles. To provide information on optimal drug selection 83 pediatric clinics were asked to define their choice of drug treatment for particular purposes. The results were compared with an investigation of 1969. Trends of pediatric drug treatment during the last decade can be recognized.", "contents": "[Conditions for rational drug treatment in childhood (author's transl)]. In pediatrics it is difficult to define indications of drug therapy, appropriate dosage and therapeutic reliability of drugs because experimental pharmacology in this age group has many obstacles. To provide information on optimal drug selection 83 pediatric clinics were asked to define their choice of drug treatment for particular purposes. The results were compared with an investigation of 1969. Trends of pediatric drug treatment during the last decade can be recognized.", "PMID": 449871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9180", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics and dosage regimen in children (author's transl)].", "content": "Dosage recommandations are mostly established empirically. With many drugs more accurate dosage is necessary and possible: antibiotics, cytostatic drugs, but also heart glycosides and anticonvulsives. Some pharmacokinetic standard values vary according to age. The distribution volume in infants is normally substantially greater than in older children. For infants the first or single dose has to be higher in relation to body weight to get the same concentration as for older children. In general, the elimination rate is slower in younger children. Therefore in long-time therapy the interval between doses has to be longer. After the 6th to 12th week the differences in elimination rates are negligible. The absorption from the rectum is neither reliable nor predictable. Suppositories are only allowed if it is possible to calculate the effect of a drug on the patient. Enteral absorption in infants is slower than in older children. Therefore maximum concentration will be reached later and will be not as high as in older children. The local concentration correlates well with plasma concentration. Drugs in bib or feeder have no effect.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics and dosage regimen in children (author's transl)]. Dosage recommandations are mostly established empirically. With many drugs more accurate dosage is necessary and possible: antibiotics, cytostatic drugs, but also heart glycosides and anticonvulsives. Some pharmacokinetic standard values vary according to age. The distribution volume in infants is normally substantially greater than in older children. For infants the first or single dose has to be higher in relation to body weight to get the same concentration as for older children. In general, the elimination rate is slower in younger children. Therefore in long-time therapy the interval between doses has to be longer. After the 6th to 12th week the differences in elimination rates are negligible. The absorption from the rectum is neither reliable nor predictable. Suppositories are only allowed if it is possible to calculate the effect of a drug on the patient. Enteral absorption in infants is slower than in older children. Therefore maximum concentration will be reached later and will be not as high as in older children. The local concentration correlates well with plasma concentration. Drugs in bib or feeder have no effect.", "PMID": 449872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9181", "title": "[Possible indications for recently developed antibiotics [author's transl)].", "content": "Properties and possible indications of recently developed antibiotics are described. For the treatment of pseudomonas aeruginosa infections of all penicillins azlocillin is the most favourable drug (instead of carbenicillin), for treatment of esch. coli infections it is mezlocillin (instead of ampicillin). Becampicillin and equally amoxycillin are more than ampicillin suitable for oral application (because of almost complete absorption). Cefaclor has a broader spectrum and stronger activity than cefalexin and will replace cefalexin in future. Sisomicin is similar to gentamicin and has no essential advantages. Netilmicin seems to be less oto-and nephrotoxic than gentamicin and may be used with less risk of side-effects in patients with renal insufficiency. Amikacin is reserved for infections by gentamicin-resistant bacteria.", "contents": "[Possible indications for recently developed antibiotics [author's transl)]. Properties and possible indications of recently developed antibiotics are described. For the treatment of pseudomonas aeruginosa infections of all penicillins azlocillin is the most favourable drug (instead of carbenicillin), for treatment of esch. coli infections it is mezlocillin (instead of ampicillin). Becampicillin and equally amoxycillin are more than ampicillin suitable for oral application (because of almost complete absorption). Cefaclor has a broader spectrum and stronger activity than cefalexin and will replace cefalexin in future. Sisomicin is similar to gentamicin and has no essential advantages. Netilmicin seems to be less oto-and nephrotoxic than gentamicin and may be used with less risk of side-effects in patients with renal insufficiency. Amikacin is reserved for infections by gentamicin-resistant bacteria.", "PMID": 449873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9182", "title": "[Present state of antimycotic therapy (author's transl)].", "content": "In the local treatment of various forms of dermatophytosis tolnaftate used to be the most convincing drug. More recent developments have led to a group of imidazol derivatives which have a broader spectrum and are also effective against yeasts. Polyene antibiotics are still very useful in the treatment of Candida mycoses. There are only few drugs available for systemic treatment of mycoses. Grisefulvin is only effective against dermatophytes. Amphotericin B, given intravenously, is a very useful drug against a series of systemic mycoses but it's value is decreased by serious side effects. Fluorocytosin shows less unwanted effects than Amphotericin B, but many fungi are resistent against this antimycotic or may become so during treatment. Of the imidazol group only miconazole is available for systemic intravenous therapy. Further developments of systemic antimycotics are of great importance.", "contents": "[Present state of antimycotic therapy (author's transl)]. In the local treatment of various forms of dermatophytosis tolnaftate used to be the most convincing drug. More recent developments have led to a group of imidazol derivatives which have a broader spectrum and are also effective against yeasts. Polyene antibiotics are still very useful in the treatment of Candida mycoses. There are only few drugs available for systemic treatment of mycoses. Grisefulvin is only effective against dermatophytes. Amphotericin B, given intravenously, is a very useful drug against a series of systemic mycoses but it's value is decreased by serious side effects. Fluorocytosin shows less unwanted effects than Amphotericin B, but many fungi are resistent against this antimycotic or may become so during treatment. Of the imidazol group only miconazole is available for systemic intravenous therapy. Further developments of systemic antimycotics are of great importance.", "PMID": 449874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9183", "title": "[Surgical treatment of congenital heart malformations. Indications and surgical management (author's transl)].", "content": "Congenital malformations of the heart have to be expected in approximately 0,8% of all newborns. The majority of them needs surgical treatment and can be corrected anatomically with a low operative risk (atrial and ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, coarctation, valvular aortic and pulmonary stenosis etc.). Surgical repair of complex anomalies includes either palliative or functionally corrective procedures and has a much higher operative and early postoperative mortality (transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, tricuspid atresia etc.). Surgery becomes urgent in babies suffering from congestive heart failure and/or progressive severe hypoxia during the first months of life. Early total surgical repair or primary palliation and two-stage correction depends on the kind of anomaly and has to be selected individually. Hemodynamical classification, general distribution and surgical considerations of the most common congenital malformations of the heart are described.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of congenital heart malformations. Indications and surgical management (author's transl)]. Congenital malformations of the heart have to be expected in approximately 0,8% of all newborns. The majority of them needs surgical treatment and can be corrected anatomically with a low operative risk (atrial and ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, coarctation, valvular aortic and pulmonary stenosis etc.). Surgical repair of complex anomalies includes either palliative or functionally corrective procedures and has a much higher operative and early postoperative mortality (transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, tricuspid atresia etc.). Surgery becomes urgent in babies suffering from congestive heart failure and/or progressive severe hypoxia during the first months of life. Early total surgical repair or primary palliation and two-stage correction depends on the kind of anomaly and has to be selected individually. Hemodynamical classification, general distribution and surgical considerations of the most common congenital malformations of the heart are described.", "PMID": 449875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9184", "title": "[Distribution of obstetrical and postnatal risk-factors in 400 randomly selected newborns. A study using Prechtl's concept of optimal conditions (author's transl)].", "content": "The distribution of obstetrical and postnatal risk-factors in a population of 400 newborns was investigated. For documentation, an extended list of Prechtl's list of optimal obstetric conditions was used. The newborns had been selected randomly from two populations, born 1972 in two different hospitals (County hospital, University hospital). The reduction of optimal conditions was calculated by percentiles. It was found that the number -3 (of 52 items, representing full optimal conditions) defined the 10th percentile of the population; number -5 the median, and number -10 the 90th percentile. In addition, percentiles were calculated regarding the history of the mother and the history of the infant respectively. Using the distribution of reduced obstetrical and postnatal optimal conditions allows to compare the history of a single newborn or the histories of a population of newborns with defined problems. Newborns with rather low negative numbers of reduced optimal conditions are at lower risk regarding their psychomotor development wheras newborns with high negative numbers carry a much higher irsk in this respect.", "contents": "[Distribution of obstetrical and postnatal risk-factors in 400 randomly selected newborns. A study using Prechtl's concept of optimal conditions (author's transl)]. The distribution of obstetrical and postnatal risk-factors in a population of 400 newborns was investigated. For documentation, an extended list of Prechtl's list of optimal obstetric conditions was used. The newborns had been selected randomly from two populations, born 1972 in two different hospitals (County hospital, University hospital). The reduction of optimal conditions was calculated by percentiles. It was found that the number -3 (of 52 items, representing full optimal conditions) defined the 10th percentile of the population; number -5 the median, and number -10 the 90th percentile. In addition, percentiles were calculated regarding the history of the mother and the history of the infant respectively. Using the distribution of reduced obstetrical and postnatal optimal conditions allows to compare the history of a single newborn or the histories of a population of newborns with defined problems. Newborns with rather low negative numbers of reduced optimal conditions are at lower risk regarding their psychomotor development wheras newborns with high negative numbers carry a much higher irsk in this respect.", "PMID": 449876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9185", "title": "[Hydrothorax during the neonatal period (author's transl)].", "content": "The congenital hydrothorax is a rare cause of the RDS in the newborn. Our observations on three patients with bilateral pleural effusions and 44 cases from the literature will be discussed; we emphasize the importance of this serious disease in the newborn period. The pathogenesis is largely unknown, however, its possible etiology like birth trauma or dysplasia of the lymphatic system are discussed. It should be pointed out that this condition can be rapidly recognized by radiographic examination and successfully treated. The reported survival rate is 29 out of 44 (66%).", "contents": "[Hydrothorax during the neonatal period (author's transl)]. The congenital hydrothorax is a rare cause of the RDS in the newborn. Our observations on three patients with bilateral pleural effusions and 44 cases from the literature will be discussed; we emphasize the importance of this serious disease in the newborn period. The pathogenesis is largely unknown, however, its possible etiology like birth trauma or dysplasia of the lymphatic system are discussed. It should be pointed out that this condition can be rapidly recognized by radiographic examination and successfully treated. The reported survival rate is 29 out of 44 (66%).", "PMID": 449877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9186", "title": "[Partial trisomy of the long arm of the chromosome no. 6 (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical features of a new chromosomal syndrome are described. The patient, a 10(9)/12 years old girl, presents a marked psychomotor retardation with short stature, microcephaly, myopia, alterations in dermatoglyphics, and some other dysmorphic signs.", "contents": "[Partial trisomy of the long arm of the chromosome no. 6 (author's transl)]. The clinical features of a new chromosomal syndrome are described. The patient, a 10(9)/12 years old girl, presents a marked psychomotor retardation with short stature, microcephaly, myopia, alterations in dermatoglyphics, and some other dysmorphic signs.", "PMID": 449879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9187", "title": "Design and analysis of experiments on mutagenicity. II. Assays involving microorganisms.", "content": "The design and statistical analysis of mutagenicity experiments involving microorganisms and a single dose of mutagen are discussed. Test statistics are derived for use in determining the mutagenicity of a chemical when survival data are available and also when such data are not available. One's likelihood (power) of correctly concluding a chemical is mutagenic is examined, and minimum total sample sizes required for 95% power are presented. It is found that one generally has greater power when survival data are available. Required precision is estimating survival is discussed in reference to type-1 and type-2 errors. The proper use of the formulae and figures presented is illustrated by examples.", "contents": "Design and analysis of experiments on mutagenicity. II. Assays involving microorganisms. The design and statistical analysis of mutagenicity experiments involving microorganisms and a single dose of mutagen are discussed. Test statistics are derived for use in determining the mutagenicity of a chemical when survival data are available and also when such data are not available. One's likelihood (power) of correctly concluding a chemical is mutagenic is examined, and minimum total sample sizes required for 95% power are presented. It is found that one generally has greater power when survival data are available. Required precision is estimating survival is discussed in reference to type-1 and type-2 errors. The proper use of the formulae and figures presented is illustrated by examples.", "PMID": 449883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9188", "title": "The impact of severely damaged cells in cytogenetic research.", "content": "In a large multilaboratory cytogenetic study of interlaboratory variations using 4 dose levels of triethylenemelamine and a control, a severely damaged cell was operationally defined as a cell which contained at least 10 aberrations of any type. A review of this study suggested that the use of this definition introduced a bias in the measurement and interpretation of results for the other cytogenetic categories studied. As a result, the original severely damaged cells were carefully reanalyzed to investigate the characteristics of this bias and to seek procedures to minimize or eliminate it. Results characterize this bias and demonstrate that when a severely damaged cell is defined as one containing at least 20 aberrations and those aberrations in the remaining non-severely damaged cells are classified by specific type, the bias is significantly reduced and chromosome analysis can be improved as a test system.", "contents": "The impact of severely damaged cells in cytogenetic research. In a large multilaboratory cytogenetic study of interlaboratory variations using 4 dose levels of triethylenemelamine and a control, a severely damaged cell was operationally defined as a cell which contained at least 10 aberrations of any type. A review of this study suggested that the use of this definition introduced a bias in the measurement and interpretation of results for the other cytogenetic categories studied. As a result, the original severely damaged cells were carefully reanalyzed to investigate the characteristics of this bias and to seek procedures to minimize or eliminate it. Results characterize this bias and demonstrate that when a severely damaged cell is defined as one containing at least 20 aberrations and those aberrations in the remaining non-severely damaged cells are classified by specific type, the bias is significantly reduced and chromosome analysis can be improved as a test system.", "PMID": 449884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9189", "title": "Gender of infants conceived on different days of the menstrual cycle.", "content": "The baby's sex was studied in 3658 births to Jewish women who observed the orthodox ritual of sexual separation each month and who resumed intercourse within two days of ovulation. The day of resuming intercourse relative to ovulation was estimated from the characteristics of each woman's menstrual cycle and the number of days of sexual abstinence observed after the last menstruation. The proportion of male babies was significantly higher (65.5 +/- 3.9 per cent, mean +/- S.D.) in the offspring of women who resumed intercourse two days after ovulation. This proportion tended to be lower on or near the day of ovulation than on the previous one or two days. These results, which were consistent in different demographic subgroups, demonstrate that insemination on different days of the menstrual cycle does lead to variations in sex ratio. Couples should be cautioned against attempting to conceive a boy by delaying intercourse until after ovulation, until further research has established whether delayed fertilization causes birth defects.", "contents": "Gender of infants conceived on different days of the menstrual cycle. The baby's sex was studied in 3658 births to Jewish women who observed the orthodox ritual of sexual separation each month and who resumed intercourse within two days of ovulation. The day of resuming intercourse relative to ovulation was estimated from the characteristics of each woman's menstrual cycle and the number of days of sexual abstinence observed after the last menstruation. The proportion of male babies was significantly higher (65.5 +/- 3.9 per cent, mean +/- S.D.) in the offspring of women who resumed intercourse two days after ovulation. This proportion tended to be lower on or near the day of ovulation than on the previous one or two days. These results, which were consistent in different demographic subgroups, demonstrate that insemination on different days of the menstrual cycle does lead to variations in sex ratio. Couples should be cautioned against attempting to conceive a boy by delaying intercourse until after ovulation, until further research has established whether delayed fertilization causes birth defects.", "PMID": 449885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9190", "title": "Recurrent abdominal pain of childhood due to lactose intolerance.", "content": "The role of lactose malabsorption was studied prospectively in 80 schoolchildren with recurrent abdominal pain. Malabsorption was documented in 40 per cent (16 of 59 whites, 12 of 16 blacks and four of five Hispanic children) on the basis of elevated levels of hydrogen in their breath. Those with lactose malabsorption, however, were not clinically distinguishable on the basis of past milk ingestion (P greater than 0.05), weekly pain frequency (median, five vs. six times), presence of diarrhea (40 vs. 27 per cent) or symptom response to lactose load. In children with malabsorption who completed a six-week diet trial, 70 per cent reported increased frequency of pain (P less than 0.002) when placed on their usual lactose-containing diet. Lactose malabsorption has a substantial role in the symptoms of children with recurrent abdominal pain, and it should be considered before performing invasive procedures or assuming a psychogenic origin.", "contents": "Recurrent abdominal pain of childhood due to lactose intolerance. The role of lactose malabsorption was studied prospectively in 80 schoolchildren with recurrent abdominal pain. Malabsorption was documented in 40 per cent (16 of 59 whites, 12 of 16 blacks and four of five Hispanic children) on the basis of elevated levels of hydrogen in their breath. Those with lactose malabsorption, however, were not clinically distinguishable on the basis of past milk ingestion (P greater than 0.05), weekly pain frequency (median, five vs. six times), presence of diarrhea (40 vs. 27 per cent) or symptom response to lactose load. In children with malabsorption who completed a six-week diet trial, 70 per cent reported increased frequency of pain (P less than 0.002) when placed on their usual lactose-containing diet. Lactose malabsorption has a substantial role in the symptoms of children with recurrent abdominal pain, and it should be considered before performing invasive procedures or assuming a psychogenic origin.", "PMID": 449886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9191", "title": "Can China's health care be transplanted without China's economic policies?", "content": "China's economic policies of the past 25 years have shaped its present health-care system. China's leadership has decided to have neither a national health-insurance system nor a national health service. Instead, it decided that its health system would mirror the workings of its industrial and agricultural system. Decisions to minimize imports, ban private economic activity, assign university graduates on a compulsory basis, control wages, maintain a large domestic standing army and prevent professions or universities from acquiring independent status led directly to the present system of medical care. Consequently, transplantation of China's striking achievements in health-care delivery to the United States or other countries is unlikely to occur in the absence of transfer of the underlying economic policies.", "contents": "Can China's health care be transplanted without China's economic policies? China's economic policies of the past 25 years have shaped its present health-care system. China's leadership has decided to have neither a national health-insurance system nor a national health service. Instead, it decided that its health system would mirror the workings of its industrial and agricultural system. Decisions to minimize imports, ban private economic activity, assign university graduates on a compulsory basis, control wages, maintain a large domestic standing army and prevent professions or universities from acquiring independent status led directly to the present system of medical care. Consequently, transplantation of China's striking achievements in health-care delivery to the United States or other countries is unlikely to occur in the absence of transfer of the underlying economic policies.", "PMID": 449887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9192", "title": "Immune interferon in the circulation of patients with autoimmune disease.", "content": "The observation that type II, or immune, interferon could be produced by peripheral-blood leukocytes in vitro on an immune-specific basis suggested that it also might be produced in vivo in various autoimmune disorders. We found immune interferon in the serums of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome. Among 28 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 71 per cent of those with active and 21 per cent of those with inactive disease showed interferon in their serums. Serial serum samples showed a good correlation between interferon titers and disease activity. Moreover, interferon titers correlated positively with antibodies to DNA and negatively with serum levels of the third component of complement. It is possible that the production of interferon may contribute to immunologic aberrations in auto-immune diseases and also protect the already compromised host from viral infections.", "contents": "Immune interferon in the circulation of patients with autoimmune disease. The observation that type II, or immune, interferon could be produced by peripheral-blood leukocytes in vitro on an immune-specific basis suggested that it also might be produced in vivo in various autoimmune disorders. We found immune interferon in the serums of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome. Among 28 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 71 per cent of those with active and 21 per cent of those with inactive disease showed interferon in their serums. Serial serum samples showed a good correlation between interferon titers and disease activity. Moreover, interferon titers correlated positively with antibodies to DNA and negatively with serum levels of the third component of complement. It is possible that the production of interferon may contribute to immunologic aberrations in auto-immune diseases and also protect the already compromised host from viral infections.", "PMID": 449915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9193", "title": "Nonoperative dilatation of coronary-artery stenosis: percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty.", "content": "In percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, a catheter system is introduced through a systemic artery under local anesthesia to dilate a stenotic artery by controlled inflation of a distensible balloon. Over the past 18 months, we have used this technic in 50 patients. The technic was successful in 32 patients, reducing the stenosis from a mean of 84 to 34 per cent (P less than 0.001) and the coronary-pressure gradient from a mean of 58 to 19 mm Hg (P less than 0.001). Twenty-nine patients showed improvement in cardiac function during follow-up examination. Because of acute deterioration in clinical status, emergency bypass was later necessary in five patients; three showed electrocardiographic evidence of infarcts. Patients with single-vessel disease appear to be most suitable for the procedure, and a short history of pain indicates the presence of a soft (distensible) atheroma likely to respond to dilatation. We estimate that only about 10 to 15 per cent of candidates for bypass surgery have lesions suitable for this procedure. A prospective randomized trial will be necessary to evaluate its usefulness in comparison with surgical and medical management.", "contents": "Nonoperative dilatation of coronary-artery stenosis: percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. In percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, a catheter system is introduced through a systemic artery under local anesthesia to dilate a stenotic artery by controlled inflation of a distensible balloon. Over the past 18 months, we have used this technic in 50 patients. The technic was successful in 32 patients, reducing the stenosis from a mean of 84 to 34 per cent (P less than 0.001) and the coronary-pressure gradient from a mean of 58 to 19 mm Hg (P less than 0.001). Twenty-nine patients showed improvement in cardiac function during follow-up examination. Because of acute deterioration in clinical status, emergency bypass was later necessary in five patients; three showed electrocardiographic evidence of infarcts. Patients with single-vessel disease appear to be most suitable for the procedure, and a short history of pain indicates the presence of a soft (distensible) atheroma likely to respond to dilatation. We estimate that only about 10 to 15 per cent of candidates for bypass surgery have lesions suitable for this procedure. A prospective randomized trial will be necessary to evaluate its usefulness in comparison with surgical and medical management.", "PMID": 449946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9194", "title": "Increasing minority recruitment to the health professions by enlarging the applicant pool.", "content": "Over an eight-year period, 707 students from minority groups or with economically disadvantaged backgrounds were selected from junior and senior-high-school classes throughout the state of Arizona and admitted to a Med Start program emphasizing careers in the health professions. The program featured recruitment into clubs, training in leadership, counseling by other minority students, work experience and specialized courses in English, mathematics and basic biologic sciences. Attrition was remarkably low. At the time of follow-up study, 369 of these students had sought further education beyond high school, and 220 of this group had enrolled in or completed health-education programs. Although obviously not a controlled experiment, this experience suggests that the pool of minority and economically disadvantaged applicants for careers in the health professions can be enlarged.", "contents": "Increasing minority recruitment to the health professions by enlarging the applicant pool. Over an eight-year period, 707 students from minority groups or with economically disadvantaged backgrounds were selected from junior and senior-high-school classes throughout the state of Arizona and admitted to a Med Start program emphasizing careers in the health professions. The program featured recruitment into clubs, training in leadership, counseling by other minority students, work experience and specialized courses in English, mathematics and basic biologic sciences. Attrition was remarkably low. At the time of follow-up study, 369 of these students had sought further education beyond high school, and 220 of this group had enrolled in or completed health-education programs. Although obviously not a controlled experiment, this experience suggests that the pool of minority and economically disadvantaged applicants for careers in the health professions can be enlarged.", "PMID": 449948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9195", "title": "Mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension in patients with orthostatic hypotension.", "content": "The mechanism of recumbent hypertension induced by fludrocortisone was studied in seven patients with orthostatic hypotension. All showed increases in blood pressure in the recumbent and standing positions, and hypertensive levels were achieved on recumbency in four of them. Hypertensive retinopathy developed in two patients and cardiomegaly in one. Initial blood-pressure elevations were associated with sodium retention and plasma-volume expansion. However, with long-term treatment, plasma volume decreased to control levels despite further blood-pressure increases. Treatment did not affect plasma levels of catecholamines but did enhance pressor responsiveness to infused norepinephrine in some subjects. Hemodynamic studies indicated that hypertension in the recumbent position was related to increases in total peripheral-vascular resistance and not to changes in cardiac output. Clinically, hypertension in the recumbent position is an important risk of fludrocortisone treatment in patients with orthostatic hypotension. This unusual model of chronic mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension is not volume dependent but is related to increased peripheral-vascular resistance.", "contents": "Mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension in patients with orthostatic hypotension. The mechanism of recumbent hypertension induced by fludrocortisone was studied in seven patients with orthostatic hypotension. All showed increases in blood pressure in the recumbent and standing positions, and hypertensive levels were achieved on recumbency in four of them. Hypertensive retinopathy developed in two patients and cardiomegaly in one. Initial blood-pressure elevations were associated with sodium retention and plasma-volume expansion. However, with long-term treatment, plasma volume decreased to control levels despite further blood-pressure increases. Treatment did not affect plasma levels of catecholamines but did enhance pressor responsiveness to infused norepinephrine in some subjects. Hemodynamic studies indicated that hypertension in the recumbent position was related to increases in total peripheral-vascular resistance and not to changes in cardiac output. Clinically, hypertension in the recumbent position is an important risk of fludrocortisone treatment in patients with orthostatic hypotension. This unusual model of chronic mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension is not volume dependent but is related to increased peripheral-vascular resistance.", "PMID": 449947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9196", "title": "A comparison of amphotericin B alone and combined with flucytosine in the treatment of cryptoccal meningitis.", "content": "We compared amphotericin B therapy for cryptococcal meningitis with a newer regimen containing both amphotericin B and flucytosine. In 50 patients with 51 courses of therapy adherent to the protocol, 27 courses were with amphotericin B and 24 with the combination. Even though the combination regimen was given for only six weeks and amphotericin B for 10 weeks, the combination cured or improved more patients (16 vs 11), produced fewer failures or relapses (three vs. 11), more rapid sterilization of the cerebrospinal fluid (P less than 0.001) and less nephrotoxicity (P less than 0.05) than did amphotericin B alone. The number of deaths was the same (five) with each regimen. Adverse reactions to flucytosine occurred in 11 of 34 patients but were not life threatening. We conclude that combined flucytosine-amphoericin B therapy is the regimen of choice in cryptococcal meningitis.", "contents": "A comparison of amphotericin B alone and combined with flucytosine in the treatment of cryptoccal meningitis. We compared amphotericin B therapy for cryptococcal meningitis with a newer regimen containing both amphotericin B and flucytosine. In 50 patients with 51 courses of therapy adherent to the protocol, 27 courses were with amphotericin B and 24 with the combination. Even though the combination regimen was given for only six weeks and amphotericin B for 10 weeks, the combination cured or improved more patients (16 vs 11), produced fewer failures or relapses (three vs. 11), more rapid sterilization of the cerebrospinal fluid (P less than 0.001) and less nephrotoxicity (P less than 0.05) than did amphotericin B alone. The number of deaths was the same (five) with each regimen. Adverse reactions to flucytosine occurred in 11 of 34 patients but were not life threatening. We conclude that combined flucytosine-amphoericin B therapy is the regimen of choice in cryptococcal meningitis.", "PMID": 449951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9197", "title": "Serum ferritin as a possible marker of the hemochromatosis allele.", "content": "To determine whether a correlation exists between the biochemical expression of hemochromatosis and the HLA genotype, we studied 174 family members of 32 persons with the disease. Persons who shared both HLA haplotypes with the proband (and presumably having two hemochromatosis alleles) differed significantly from those who shared only one haplotype (and presumably having one hemochromatosis allele) in terms of serum iron (P less than 0.001 for both sexes), unsaturated iron-binding capacity (P less than 0.01 for female and P less than 0.0001 for male subjects) and serum ferritin (P less than 0.0001 for female and P less than 0.00001 for male subjects). The only significant difference between relatives having one hemochromatosis allele and age and sex-matched controls was related to serum ferritin values in male subjects (P less than 0.05, despite considerable overlap). In our hands, serum ferritin was the best indicator of disordered iron metabolism and was elevated among most homozygous but among few heterozygous family members.", "contents": "Serum ferritin as a possible marker of the hemochromatosis allele. To determine whether a correlation exists between the biochemical expression of hemochromatosis and the HLA genotype, we studied 174 family members of 32 persons with the disease. Persons who shared both HLA haplotypes with the proband (and presumably having two hemochromatosis alleles) differed significantly from those who shared only one haplotype (and presumably having one hemochromatosis allele) in terms of serum iron (P less than 0.001 for both sexes), unsaturated iron-binding capacity (P less than 0.01 for female and P less than 0.0001 for male subjects) and serum ferritin (P less than 0.0001 for female and P less than 0.00001 for male subjects). The only significant difference between relatives having one hemochromatosis allele and age and sex-matched controls was related to serum ferritin values in male subjects (P less than 0.05, despite considerable overlap). In our hands, serum ferritin was the best indicator of disordered iron metabolism and was elevated among most homozygous but among few heterozygous family members.", "PMID": 449973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9198", "title": "Hereditary hemochromatosis. Phenotypic expression of the disease.", "content": "Previous studies have shown that hemochromatosis is an inherited, autosomal-recessive disease and that the gene is closely linked to the HLA locus on chromosome 6. We obtained a lod score for linkage of +9.8 for a recombination fraction of 0.0 and a gene frequency of 0.056, the frequency estimated in this population. We studied the phenotypic expression of the disease in 261 members of 10 pedigrees. In heterozygotes over 20 years of age, there was an intermediate increase in transferrin saturation and a limited increase in hepatic iron but no clinical manifestations. In male heterozygotes, the average amount of iron in the liver increased from about 0.2 to 1.3 g. Abnormal homozygotes accumulated iron progressively with time, with men accumulating about 18 g in the liver. All measurements of iron status were increased in abnormal homozygotes. Hemochromatosis is inherited as an autosomal-recessive disease, with partial biochemical expression in heterozygotes.", "contents": "Hereditary hemochromatosis. Phenotypic expression of the disease. Previous studies have shown that hemochromatosis is an inherited, autosomal-recessive disease and that the gene is closely linked to the HLA locus on chromosome 6. We obtained a lod score for linkage of +9.8 for a recombination fraction of 0.0 and a gene frequency of 0.056, the frequency estimated in this population. We studied the phenotypic expression of the disease in 261 members of 10 pedigrees. In heterozygotes over 20 years of age, there was an intermediate increase in transferrin saturation and a limited increase in hepatic iron but no clinical manifestations. In male heterozygotes, the average amount of iron in the liver increased from about 0.2 to 1.3 g. Abnormal homozygotes accumulated iron progressively with time, with men accumulating about 18 g in the liver. All measurements of iron status were increased in abnormal homozygotes. Hemochromatosis is inherited as an autosomal-recessive disease, with partial biochemical expression in heterozygotes.", "PMID": 449974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9199", "title": "Exercise stress testing. Correlations among history of angina, ST-segment response and prevalence of coronary-artery disease in the Coronary Artery Surgery Study (CASS).", "content": "To determine to what extent the diagnostic accuracy of stress testing is influenced by the prevalence of coronary-artery disease, we correlated the description of chest pain, the result of stress testing and the results of coronary arteriography in 1465 men and 580 women from a multicentered clinical trial. The pre-test risk (prevalence of coronary-artery disease) varied from 7 to 87 per cent, depending on sex and classification of chest pain. A positive stress test increased the pre-test risk by only 6 to 20 per cent, whereas a negative test decreased the risk by only 2 to 28 per cent. Aothough the percentage of false-positive results differed between men and women (12 +/- 1 per cent versus 53 +/- 3 per cent P less than 0.001), this difference was not seen in a subgroup matched for prevalence of coronary-artery disease. We conclude that the ability of stress testing to predict coronary-artery disease is limited in a heterogeneous population in which the prevalence of disease can be estimated through classification of chest pain and the sex of the patient.", "contents": "Exercise stress testing. Correlations among history of angina, ST-segment response and prevalence of coronary-artery disease in the Coronary Artery Surgery Study (CASS). To determine to what extent the diagnostic accuracy of stress testing is influenced by the prevalence of coronary-artery disease, we correlated the description of chest pain, the result of stress testing and the results of coronary arteriography in 1465 men and 580 women from a multicentered clinical trial. The pre-test risk (prevalence of coronary-artery disease) varied from 7 to 87 per cent, depending on sex and classification of chest pain. A positive stress test increased the pre-test risk by only 6 to 20 per cent, whereas a negative test decreased the risk by only 2 to 28 per cent. Aothough the percentage of false-positive results differed between men and women (12 +/- 1 per cent versus 53 +/- 3 per cent P less than 0.001), this difference was not seen in a subgroup matched for prevalence of coronary-artery disease. We conclude that the ability of stress testing to predict coronary-artery disease is limited in a heterogeneous population in which the prevalence of disease can be estimated through classification of chest pain and the sex of the patient.", "PMID": 449990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9200", "title": "Human chorionic gonadotropin in the plasma of normal, nonpregnant subjects.", "content": "To determine whether ectopic secretion of a protein hormone can occur normally, we studied plasma from normal, nonpregnant subjects for the presence of a placental hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin. We extracted and purified this hormone from other plasma proteins. We identified the hormone in the final residue on the basis of its dose-response curves in a specific radioimmunoassay and calculated the plasma concentration after correction for losses. Because this assay is sensitive to concentrations as low as 2 pg per milliliter, human chorionic gonadotropin could be detected in the plasma of 12 of 16 blood donors; the median concentration was 19 pg per milliliter (range, less than 2 to 361). This immunologic human chorionic gonadotropin was further characterized from a pool of normal plasma by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100 and was found to be identical to the standard form of the hormone. The concentration in this pool from 13 normal men was 18 pg per milliliter. The source of this ectopic hormone production is unknown, but may be normal, rapidly proliferating nonmalignant cells.", "contents": "Human chorionic gonadotropin in the plasma of normal, nonpregnant subjects. To determine whether ectopic secretion of a protein hormone can occur normally, we studied plasma from normal, nonpregnant subjects for the presence of a placental hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin. We extracted and purified this hormone from other plasma proteins. We identified the hormone in the final residue on the basis of its dose-response curves in a specific radioimmunoassay and calculated the plasma concentration after correction for losses. Because this assay is sensitive to concentrations as low as 2 pg per milliliter, human chorionic gonadotropin could be detected in the plasma of 12 of 16 blood donors; the median concentration was 19 pg per milliliter (range, less than 2 to 361). This immunologic human chorionic gonadotropin was further characterized from a pool of normal plasma by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100 and was found to be identical to the standard form of the hormone. The concentration in this pool from 13 normal men was 18 pg per milliliter. The source of this ectopic hormone production is unknown, but may be normal, rapidly proliferating nonmalignant cells.", "PMID": 450016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9201", "title": "[Variation of the yeast flora in the buccal cavity between controls and subjects treated with psychotropic drugs].", "content": "The yeasts of buccal cavity were studied in a group of seventy-five subjects treated by psychotropic drugs in a psychiatric hospital, in a group of fifty-one subjects treated by psychotropic drugs at home, and in a basis group (100 + 50). It is found yeasts on 84% of treated subjects in a psychiatric hospital and only 40% in the other populations.", "contents": "[Variation of the yeast flora in the buccal cavity between controls and subjects treated with psychotropic drugs]. The yeasts of buccal cavity were studied in a group of seventy-five subjects treated by psychotropic drugs in a psychiatric hospital, in a group of fifty-one subjects treated by psychotropic drugs at home, and in a basis group (100 + 50). It is found yeasts on 84% of treated subjects in a psychiatric hospital and only 40% in the other populations.", "PMID": 450034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9202", "title": "Biochemical and serological characteristics of soluble yeast phase antigens of Histoplasma capsulatum.", "content": "Soluble antigens of whole yeast-phase cells were extracted with a 0.1 M phosphate buffer containing 0.1 M sodium chloride and 0.02% iodacetate. After being separated by differential filtration into fractions less than or greater than 50,000 daltons these antigens were purified by molecular sieve and chromatographic separations on ionic exchange resins. Two high molecular weight fractions obtained from diethylaminoethyl-cellulose (DEAE) at pH 8.0 and 7.0 with tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane (Tris) buffer were M antigens; those obtained at pH 4.0 and 4.0 with salt were H antigens. The four fractions had protein to carbohydrate ratios of 7.3, 14.0, 8.4, and 6.5 respectively, and all had essentially the same amino acid composition with no methionine and tyrosine and little histodine, arginine, phenylalanine and lysine. They had high concentrations of glucose, less mannose and traces of galactose. The low molecular weight fractions had the new complex \"Y antigen\", M antigen with protein to carbohydrate ratios of 1.4, 1.4 and 0.3 respectively. The amino acid and sugar composition of Y antigen strongly resembled the composition of the low molecular weight H and M antigens. Unlike the high molecular weight antigens, these low molecular weight antigens had methionine in relatively high concentrations; they had the same sugars as their respective high molecular weight counterparts. The yeast phase antigens differed from their respective mycelial counterparts in the following ways: glucose was the major sugar in the yeast phase with less amounts of mannose and traces of galactose, whereas in the mycelial antigens, mannose was the major sugar, with lesser amounts of galactose, and hexosamine. The H and M antigens of the yeast phase had high concentrations of glycine and alanine, whereas in the mycelial phase, these antigens had high concentrations of threonine and proline; the H and M antigens of the yeast phase had 5 to 16 times the protein to carbohydrate ratio observed for the same antigens of histoplasmin.", "contents": "Biochemical and serological characteristics of soluble yeast phase antigens of Histoplasma capsulatum. Soluble antigens of whole yeast-phase cells were extracted with a 0.1 M phosphate buffer containing 0.1 M sodium chloride and 0.02% iodacetate. After being separated by differential filtration into fractions less than or greater than 50,000 daltons these antigens were purified by molecular sieve and chromatographic separations on ionic exchange resins. Two high molecular weight fractions obtained from diethylaminoethyl-cellulose (DEAE) at pH 8.0 and 7.0 with tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane (Tris) buffer were M antigens; those obtained at pH 4.0 and 4.0 with salt were H antigens. The four fractions had protein to carbohydrate ratios of 7.3, 14.0, 8.4, and 6.5 respectively, and all had essentially the same amino acid composition with no methionine and tyrosine and little histodine, arginine, phenylalanine and lysine. They had high concentrations of glucose, less mannose and traces of galactose. The low molecular weight fractions had the new complex \"Y antigen\", M antigen with protein to carbohydrate ratios of 1.4, 1.4 and 0.3 respectively. The amino acid and sugar composition of Y antigen strongly resembled the composition of the low molecular weight H and M antigens. Unlike the high molecular weight antigens, these low molecular weight antigens had methionine in relatively high concentrations; they had the same sugars as their respective high molecular weight counterparts. The yeast phase antigens differed from their respective mycelial counterparts in the following ways: glucose was the major sugar in the yeast phase with less amounts of mannose and traces of galactose, whereas in the mycelial antigens, mannose was the major sugar, with lesser amounts of galactose, and hexosamine. The H and M antigens of the yeast phase had high concentrations of glycine and alanine, whereas in the mycelial phase, these antigens had high concentrations of threonine and proline; the H and M antigens of the yeast phase had 5 to 16 times the protein to carbohydrate ratio observed for the same antigens of histoplasmin.", "PMID": 450035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9203", "title": "Crystal structure and molecular interactions of tropomyosin.", "content": "The three-dimensional structure of tropomyosin filaments has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The ends of the molecules were located by reference to the single pair of cysteine residues. Departures from the alpha-helical-coiled coil conformation may occur in localised domains along the molecule as well as at the overlapping ends.", "contents": "Crystal structure and molecular interactions of tropomyosin. The three-dimensional structure of tropomyosin filaments has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The ends of the molecules were located by reference to the single pair of cysteine residues. Departures from the alpha-helical-coiled coil conformation may occur in localised domains along the molecule as well as at the overlapping ends.", "PMID": 450047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9204", "title": "Organisation and sequences at the 5' end of a cloned complete ovalbumin gene.", "content": "A clone which contains the complete chicken ovalbumin gene, including its leader coding sequences, has been isolated. From electron microscopic analysis of this DNA we conclude that the minimal size of the transcriptional unit for ovalbumin is 7.7 kilobases. The DNA sequence of the region surrounding the 5' end of the ovalbumin gene is presented. Comparison of this sequence with those of other eukaryotic genes reveals striking similarities, possibly related to a promoter region, approximately 30 base pairs upstream from the site coding for the 5' end of the mRNA.", "contents": "Organisation and sequences at the 5' end of a cloned complete ovalbumin gene. A clone which contains the complete chicken ovalbumin gene, including its leader coding sequences, has been isolated. From electron microscopic analysis of this DNA we conclude that the minimal size of the transcriptional unit for ovalbumin is 7.7 kilobases. The DNA sequence of the region surrounding the 5' end of the ovalbumin gene is presented. Comparison of this sequence with those of other eukaryotic genes reveals striking similarities, possibly related to a promoter region, approximately 30 base pairs upstream from the site coding for the 5' end of the mRNA.", "PMID": 450048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9205", "title": "Nerve fibre topography in the retinal projection to the tectum.", "content": "The orderly layout of visual fibres in the optic nerves of cichlid fishes suggests that they are guided most of the way to the brain by contact with their neighbours. Before they reach the visual map in the tectum, however, their arrangement in the cross-section of the nerve is reorganised in a way which requires longer-range guidance.", "contents": "Nerve fibre topography in the retinal projection to the tectum. The orderly layout of visual fibres in the optic nerves of cichlid fishes suggests that they are guided most of the way to the brain by contact with their neighbours. Before they reach the visual map in the tectum, however, their arrangement in the cross-section of the nerve is reorganised in a way which requires longer-range guidance.", "PMID": 450061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9206", "title": "Characterisation of deletions which affect the expression of fetal globin genes in man.", "content": "Deletions in the DNA of individuals with hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin (HPFH) and 8 beta-thalassaemia have been mapped as a means of identifying regulatory sequences involved in the switch from fetal to adult globin gene expression. The end points of these deletions have been precisely located with respect to restriction endonuclease cleavage sites within and surrounding the gamma-, delta- and beta-globin genes in normal human DNA and the deletion maps were used to obtain definitive evidence for the physical linkage of the fetal and adult beta-like globin genes in the order 5'Ggamma-Agamma-delta-beta 3'. Correlation of haematological data and the location of deletions in two cases of HPFH and one case of deltabeta-thalassaemia suggest that a region of DNA located near the 5'-end of the delta-globin gene may be involved in the suppression in cis of gamma-globin gene expression in adults. The interpretation of a second case of deltabeta-thalassaemia is complicated by the fact that the deletion removes the Agamma-gene in addition to the region near the 5'-end of the delta-globin gene.", "contents": "Characterisation of deletions which affect the expression of fetal globin genes in man. Deletions in the DNA of individuals with hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin (HPFH) and 8 beta-thalassaemia have been mapped as a means of identifying regulatory sequences involved in the switch from fetal to adult globin gene expression. The end points of these deletions have been precisely located with respect to restriction endonuclease cleavage sites within and surrounding the gamma-, delta- and beta-globin genes in normal human DNA and the deletion maps were used to obtain definitive evidence for the physical linkage of the fetal and adult beta-like globin genes in the order 5'Ggamma-Agamma-delta-beta 3'. Correlation of haematological data and the location of deletions in two cases of HPFH and one case of deltabeta-thalassaemia suggest that a region of DNA located near the 5'-end of the delta-globin gene may be involved in the suppression in cis of gamma-globin gene expression in adults. The interpretation of a second case of deltabeta-thalassaemia is complicated by the fact that the deletion removes the Agamma-gene in addition to the region near the 5'-end of the delta-globin gene.", "PMID": 450109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9207", "title": "The three-dimensional structure of tubulin protofilaments.", "content": "A three-dimensional image of tubulin protofilaments, reconstructed to 20 A resolution from electron micrographs of negatively stained zinc-induced sheets, has been used to generate an improved model for microtubule substructure. This model has been used to phase a reconstructed image from X-ray amplitudes, which is compatible with the electron microscope results.", "contents": "The three-dimensional structure of tubulin protofilaments. A three-dimensional image of tubulin protofilaments, reconstructed to 20 A resolution from electron micrographs of negatively stained zinc-induced sheets, has been used to generate an improved model for microtubule substructure. This model has been used to phase a reconstructed image from X-ray amplitudes, which is compatible with the electron microscope results.", "PMID": 450110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9208", "title": "Efficient translation of prokaryotic mRNAs in a eukaryotic cell-free system requires addition of a cap structure.", "content": "In this and the accompanying paper we demonstrate that certain prokaryotic mRNAs, when modified at their 5'-termini with a cap structure, are translated in a eukaryotic cell-free protein synthesising system as efficiently as, or more efficiently than, eukaryotic mRNAs. Apparently, the prokaryotic mRNA contains all the information necessary for efficient recognition and initiation by eukaryotic translational components, except for the cap structure.", "contents": "Efficient translation of prokaryotic mRNAs in a eukaryotic cell-free system requires addition of a cap structure. In this and the accompanying paper we demonstrate that certain prokaryotic mRNAs, when modified at their 5'-termini with a cap structure, are translated in a eukaryotic cell-free protein synthesising system as efficiently as, or more efficiently than, eukaryotic mRNAs. Apparently, the prokaryotic mRNA contains all the information necessary for efficient recognition and initiation by eukaryotic translational components, except for the cap structure.", "PMID": 450118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9209", "title": "Sequence, structure and activity of phosphoglycerate kinase: a possible hinge-bending enzyme.", "content": "The fitting of sequenced peptides to a high-resolution X-ray map of phosphoglycerate kinase has yielded the complete sequence and structure of the horse muscle enzyme. Metal ADP and ATP substrates are bound to one of the two widely separated domains in an environment that seems unsuitable for phosphoglycerate binding. The most plausible binding site for the phosphoglycerate substrate is on the other domain about 10 A from the ATP, which implies the possibility of a large scale hinge-bending of the domains to bring the two substrates together in a water-free environment for catalysis.", "contents": "Sequence, structure and activity of phosphoglycerate kinase: a possible hinge-bending enzyme. The fitting of sequenced peptides to a high-resolution X-ray map of phosphoglycerate kinase has yielded the complete sequence and structure of the horse muscle enzyme. Metal ADP and ATP substrates are bound to one of the two widely separated domains in an environment that seems unsuitable for phosphoglycerate binding. The most plausible binding site for the phosphoglycerate substrate is on the other domain about 10 A from the ATP, which implies the possibility of a large scale hinge-bending of the domains to bring the two substrates together in a water-free environment for catalysis.", "PMID": 450128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9210", "title": "Embryonic development of identified neurones: differentiation from neuroblast to neurone.", "content": "Individually identified neurones are sufficiently large and accessible in grasshopper embryos to permit visualisation and impalement with intracellular microelectrodes from the time of their birth to their maturation. In this article part of the temporal pattern of differentiation from an identified neuroblast (precursor cell) to a group of identified neurones is described.", "contents": "Embryonic development of identified neurones: differentiation from neuroblast to neurone. Individually identified neurones are sufficiently large and accessible in grasshopper embryos to permit visualisation and impalement with intracellular microelectrodes from the time of their birth to their maturation. In this article part of the temporal pattern of differentiation from an identified neuroblast (precursor cell) to a group of identified neurones is described.", "PMID": 450137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9211", "title": "Uromucoid (Tamm-Horsfall's mucoprotein) in amniotic fluid and in urine in children.", "content": "Uromucoid (Tamm-Horsfall's mucoprotein) was not detected in amniotic fluid from pregnancies with gestational are 12-18 weeks, but was detected in 5 of 9 samples of amniotic fluid from full-term pregnancies, and in urine from all full-term infants investigated 1st day of life. This suggests that uromucoid excretion under normal conditions established near term. Change from intrauterine to extrauterine life may rapidly induce uromucoid excretion, as this protein was found in premature infants (32-34 weeks of gestation) at the 2nd day of life. Healthy newborn infants had a lower uromucoid concentration in urine than children 7--13 years old. In newborns with uncomplicated prematurity, idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome and full-term asphyxiated newborns, the uromucoid concentration in urine during the 1st week of life was not different from healthy newborn infants. Though uromucoid is found to be the major constituent of hyaline casts, the excretion of casts did not correlate to the uromucoid concentration.", "contents": "Uromucoid (Tamm-Horsfall's mucoprotein) in amniotic fluid and in urine in children. Uromucoid (Tamm-Horsfall's mucoprotein) was not detected in amniotic fluid from pregnancies with gestational are 12-18 weeks, but was detected in 5 of 9 samples of amniotic fluid from full-term pregnancies, and in urine from all full-term infants investigated 1st day of life. This suggests that uromucoid excretion under normal conditions established near term. Change from intrauterine to extrauterine life may rapidly induce uromucoid excretion, as this protein was found in premature infants (32-34 weeks of gestation) at the 2nd day of life. Healthy newborn infants had a lower uromucoid concentration in urine than children 7--13 years old. In newborns with uncomplicated prematurity, idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome and full-term asphyxiated newborns, the uromucoid concentration in urine during the 1st week of life was not different from healthy newborn infants. Though uromucoid is found to be the major constituent of hyaline casts, the excretion of casts did not correlate to the uromucoid concentration.", "PMID": 450164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9212", "title": "Development of glomerular fibrinolytic activity in the rat.", "content": "Fibrinolytic activity of the glomeruli was studied in rats of different age using the fibrin-slide technic. In normal rats glomerular fibrinolytic activity (GFA) was relatively low. After a single injection of liquoid (sodium polyanethol sulfonate), a pronounced increase of GFA was evident. The superficial nephrons had a significantly higher GFA than the juxtamedullary nephrons. Compared with rats 2 months of age, rats 2 weeks of age showed a greater GFA in all the glomeruli.", "contents": "Development of glomerular fibrinolytic activity in the rat. Fibrinolytic activity of the glomeruli was studied in rats of different age using the fibrin-slide technic. In normal rats glomerular fibrinolytic activity (GFA) was relatively low. After a single injection of liquoid (sodium polyanethol sulfonate), a pronounced increase of GFA was evident. The superficial nephrons had a significantly higher GFA than the juxtamedullary nephrons. Compared with rats 2 months of age, rats 2 weeks of age showed a greater GFA in all the glomeruli.", "PMID": 450166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9213", "title": "Differential effects of diuretic agents on electrolyte excretion in the dog. Role of renal hemodynamics.", "content": "The sulfonamide derivative diuretics acetazolamide, metolazone and furosemide produce differing degrees of natriuresis and varying patterns of phosphate excretion. At least part of the explanation for these diverse actions could be related to divergent effects of the drugs on total renal blood flow (TRBF) and its intracortical distribution (IBFD). To test this hypothesis, and to determine if a consistent thesis regarding alterations in interenal blood flow could be developed, clearance studies were performed in chronically thyroparathyroidectomized dogs in which radioactive microsphere methodology was utilized to evaluate the distribution of blood flow within the renal cortex. These data were then compared with those available in the literature. The variations which the drugs induced in TRBF and IBFD did not help to explain the differences in their diuretic actions. However, a consistent hypothesis relating natriuresis, perfusion pressure, renal vascular resistance, TRBF and IBFD could be developed based on the data from this study and those available in the literature.", "contents": "Differential effects of diuretic agents on electrolyte excretion in the dog. Role of renal hemodynamics. The sulfonamide derivative diuretics acetazolamide, metolazone and furosemide produce differing degrees of natriuresis and varying patterns of phosphate excretion. At least part of the explanation for these diverse actions could be related to divergent effects of the drugs on total renal blood flow (TRBF) and its intracortical distribution (IBFD). To test this hypothesis, and to determine if a consistent thesis regarding alterations in interenal blood flow could be developed, clearance studies were performed in chronically thyroparathyroidectomized dogs in which radioactive microsphere methodology was utilized to evaluate the distribution of blood flow within the renal cortex. These data were then compared with those available in the literature. The variations which the drugs induced in TRBF and IBFD did not help to explain the differences in their diuretic actions. However, a consistent hypothesis relating natriuresis, perfusion pressure, renal vascular resistance, TRBF and IBFD could be developed based on the data from this study and those available in the literature.", "PMID": 450165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9214", "title": "Symptomatic hypomagnesemia associated with gentamicin therapy.", "content": "A 57-year-old male developed hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia and hypocalcemia during the course of repeated gentamicin therapy. Renal wasting of magnesium and potassium was demonstrated. Associated endocrine abnormalities included decreased level of serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone and increased levels of plasma renin and aldosterone. Our findings are compared to those previously reported by other investigators.", "contents": "Symptomatic hypomagnesemia associated with gentamicin therapy. A 57-year-old male developed hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia and hypocalcemia during the course of repeated gentamicin therapy. Renal wasting of magnesium and potassium was demonstrated. Associated endocrine abnormalities included decreased level of serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone and increased levels of plasma renin and aldosterone. Our findings are compared to those previously reported by other investigators.", "PMID": 450167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9215", "title": "Origin of urinary fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products in renal glomerular disease.", "content": "The origin and mechanism of renal clearance of urinary 'fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products' (FDP) were studied in patients with renal glomerular diseases associated with heavy, non-selective proteinuria and high levels of urinary FDP. The results indicated that the urinary FDP arose primarily by the filtration of unaltered plasma fibrinogen through a damaged and abnormally permeable glomerular basement membrane and that a variable degree of lysis of the filtered fibrinogen occurred in the urine. The lysis of cross-linked fibrin in intraglomerular deposits, as evidenced by the presence of dimeric fragment D in the urine, appeared to contribute only a small amount to the total urinary FDP excretion.", "contents": "Origin of urinary fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products in renal glomerular disease. The origin and mechanism of renal clearance of urinary 'fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products' (FDP) were studied in patients with renal glomerular diseases associated with heavy, non-selective proteinuria and high levels of urinary FDP. The results indicated that the urinary FDP arose primarily by the filtration of unaltered plasma fibrinogen through a damaged and abnormally permeable glomerular basement membrane and that a variable degree of lysis of the filtered fibrinogen occurred in the urine. The lysis of cross-linked fibrin in intraglomerular deposits, as evidenced by the presence of dimeric fragment D in the urine, appeared to contribute only a small amount to the total urinary FDP excretion.", "PMID": 450168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9216", "title": "Effect of hypoxia and ischemia on the distribution of protein in brain cellular fractions.", "content": "The effect of postdecapitative ischemia (5 min at 37 degrees) and hypoxia (5% O2, 95% N2, 30 min) on the distribution of protein radioactivity in the cellular fractions of guinea pig cerebral cortex was studied. Ischemic conditions resulted in the increase of total radioactivity level and protein content in the mitochondrial fraction. In the cytosol the opposite effect was observed; the radioactivity and protein content were decreased. The amino acid analysis of microsomal proteins and the distribution of glucose-6-phosphatase activity, differing from those in control animals, suggest structural disturbances in the microsomal fraction. The results indicate a different sedimentation of proteins in the given experimental conditions. After hypoxia such effects were not observed.", "contents": "Effect of hypoxia and ischemia on the distribution of protein in brain cellular fractions. The effect of postdecapitative ischemia (5 min at 37 degrees) and hypoxia (5% O2, 95% N2, 30 min) on the distribution of protein radioactivity in the cellular fractions of guinea pig cerebral cortex was studied. Ischemic conditions resulted in the increase of total radioactivity level and protein content in the mitochondrial fraction. In the cytosol the opposite effect was observed; the radioactivity and protein content were decreased. The amino acid analysis of microsomal proteins and the distribution of glucose-6-phosphatase activity, differing from those in control animals, suggest structural disturbances in the microsomal fraction. The results indicate a different sedimentation of proteins in the given experimental conditions. After hypoxia such effects were not observed.", "PMID": 450170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9217", "title": "Simultaneous measurement of regional blood flow and glucose extraction in rat brain.", "content": "A method has been described which allows the measurement of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and solute transport across cerebral capillary wall in the same regional sample of rat brain. An inert diffusible indicator (iodoantipyrine) was used to measure a blood flow, in mixed gray and white matter, or approx. 1.0 ml/min/g. Using 3H2O as a reference molecule, the flux of [14C]D-glucose into brain was determined at blood glucose concentration levels between 0.1 and 60 mM. In all discrete areas of brain sampled, a consistent Vmax of 1.92 micromol/min/g and a Km of 8.35 mM was found. Glucose extraction by brain was inversely related to CBF, while a direct relationship was noted for glucose clearance.", "contents": "Simultaneous measurement of regional blood flow and glucose extraction in rat brain. A method has been described which allows the measurement of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and solute transport across cerebral capillary wall in the same regional sample of rat brain. An inert diffusible indicator (iodoantipyrine) was used to measure a blood flow, in mixed gray and white matter, or approx. 1.0 ml/min/g. Using 3H2O as a reference molecule, the flux of [14C]D-glucose into brain was determined at blood glucose concentration levels between 0.1 and 60 mM. In all discrete areas of brain sampled, a consistent Vmax of 1.92 micromol/min/g and a Km of 8.35 mM was found. Glucose extraction by brain was inversely related to CBF, while a direct relationship was noted for glucose clearance.", "PMID": 450169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9218", "title": "Macromolecular synthesis in mitochondria isolated from different regions of developing rat brain.", "content": "DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in mitochondria isolated from cerebral hemispheres, brain stem, and cerebellum of 10- and 30-day-old rats was measured. Synthesis of different macromolecules was affected by the respective mitochondrial specific inhibitors, showing a good level of purity of mitochondrial preparations. DNA and protein synthesis in 10-day-old rats was about 70% higher than in 30-day-old animals. In contrast, RNA synthesis did not decrease with age in all the regions examined.", "contents": "Macromolecular synthesis in mitochondria isolated from different regions of developing rat brain. DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in mitochondria isolated from cerebral hemispheres, brain stem, and cerebellum of 10- and 30-day-old rats was measured. Synthesis of different macromolecules was affected by the respective mitochondrial specific inhibitors, showing a good level of purity of mitochondrial preparations. DNA and protein synthesis in 10-day-old rats was about 70% higher than in 30-day-old animals. In contrast, RNA synthesis did not decrease with age in all the regions examined.", "PMID": 450171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9219", "title": "Gangliosides and other lipid micelles. A study of amine binding by a dialysis/fluorescence method.", "content": "The binding of serotonin to bovine adrenal medulla gangliosides (BAMG), bovine brain gangliosides (BBG), and BBG-synthetic lecithin mixed micelles has been demonstrated by a rapid technique using fluorescence monitoring of dialysis rates. BAMG micelles bound 0.10 mM serotonin at about half the efficiency of BBG micelles having the same sialic acid concentration (0.50 mM) in water. In water, the effect of BBG micelles was essentially identical to that of mixed micelles containing the same quantity of BBG. Ca2+ (1.20 mM), however, cancelled the effect of the mixed micelles on serotonin dialysis and reduced the effect of BBG micelles to about one quarter of that observed in water. These and other observations are related to earlier studies and to neurochemical processes which may involve gangliosides.", "contents": "Gangliosides and other lipid micelles. A study of amine binding by a dialysis/fluorescence method. The binding of serotonin to bovine adrenal medulla gangliosides (BAMG), bovine brain gangliosides (BBG), and BBG-synthetic lecithin mixed micelles has been demonstrated by a rapid technique using fluorescence monitoring of dialysis rates. BAMG micelles bound 0.10 mM serotonin at about half the efficiency of BBG micelles having the same sialic acid concentration (0.50 mM) in water. In water, the effect of BBG micelles was essentially identical to that of mixed micelles containing the same quantity of BBG. Ca2+ (1.20 mM), however, cancelled the effect of the mixed micelles on serotonin dialysis and reduced the effect of BBG micelles to about one quarter of that observed in water. These and other observations are related to earlier studies and to neurochemical processes which may involve gangliosides.", "PMID": 450173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9220", "title": "Mitochondrial DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in different regions of developing rat brain.", "content": "In vivo and in vitro (tissue slices) incorporation of labeled precursors into DNA, RNA, and proteins was measured in mitochondria obtained from cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, and brain stem of rats at different days of postnatal development. To compare the synthesis of macromolecules in mitochondria with that in other subcellular fractions, the incorporation of labeled precursors into DNA, RNA, and proteins extracted from nuclei and into RNA and proteins extracted from microsomes and cytoplasmic soluble fractions was also measured. The results obtained showed that the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA and of [14C]leucine into proteins of nuclei and mitochondria from the various brain regions examined decreased during postnatal development; however, at 30 days of age the specific radioactivity of mitochondrial DNA was higher than that of nuclear DNA. [3H]Uridine incorporation into RNA decreased from 10 to 30 days of age in nuclei while in mitochondria it was quite similar at both ages. This result may be due to a faster turnover of mitochondrial RNA compared to that of mitochondrial DNA and proteins. The results obtained suggest an active biosynthesis of macromolecules in brain mitochondria and might indicate an intense biogenesis of these organelles in rat brain during postnatal development.", "contents": "Mitochondrial DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in different regions of developing rat brain. In vivo and in vitro (tissue slices) incorporation of labeled precursors into DNA, RNA, and proteins was measured in mitochondria obtained from cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, and brain stem of rats at different days of postnatal development. To compare the synthesis of macromolecules in mitochondria with that in other subcellular fractions, the incorporation of labeled precursors into DNA, RNA, and proteins extracted from nuclei and into RNA and proteins extracted from microsomes and cytoplasmic soluble fractions was also measured. The results obtained showed that the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA and of [14C]leucine into proteins of nuclei and mitochondria from the various brain regions examined decreased during postnatal development; however, at 30 days of age the specific radioactivity of mitochondrial DNA was higher than that of nuclear DNA. [3H]Uridine incorporation into RNA decreased from 10 to 30 days of age in nuclei while in mitochondria it was quite similar at both ages. This result may be due to a faster turnover of mitochondrial RNA compared to that of mitochondrial DNA and proteins. The results obtained suggest an active biosynthesis of macromolecules in brain mitochondria and might indicate an intense biogenesis of these organelles in rat brain during postnatal development.", "PMID": 450172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9221", "title": "Changes in fluid compartments and ionic composition in the isolated chick retina during SD.", "content": "Total content of water, extracellular spaces (ES), na+, K+, and C1- in the isolated chick retina were measured in the presence (test) or absence (control) of spreading depression (SD). During SD in medium with 0.5 mM or 2 mM MgSO4, there is an increase in the intracellular concentration of Na+ and C1- and a decrease in the intracellular concentration of K+. A decrease in the ES was only found in the medium with 2 mM MgSO4 together with a diminished outmovement of K+. We suggest that a decrease in the ES is due to an increased absorption of K+ by the Muller cells, causing its swelling and consequently a decrease of the ES. The addition of sucrose (17 mM) to the incubation medium as the extracellular marker markedly decreased the intracellular concentration of C1- in control retinas, blocked the inward movement of this ion to the tissue during SD and also changed the K+ movement during the phenomenon in medium with 2 mM MgSO4. We suggest that C1- is an important ion in the ionic balance of the Muller cells and that sucrose must have its site of action at these cells.", "contents": "Changes in fluid compartments and ionic composition in the isolated chick retina during SD. Total content of water, extracellular spaces (ES), na+, K+, and C1- in the isolated chick retina were measured in the presence (test) or absence (control) of spreading depression (SD). During SD in medium with 0.5 mM or 2 mM MgSO4, there is an increase in the intracellular concentration of Na+ and C1- and a decrease in the intracellular concentration of K+. A decrease in the ES was only found in the medium with 2 mM MgSO4 together with a diminished outmovement of K+. We suggest that a decrease in the ES is due to an increased absorption of K+ by the Muller cells, causing its swelling and consequently a decrease of the ES. The addition of sucrose (17 mM) to the incubation medium as the extracellular marker markedly decreased the intracellular concentration of C1- in control retinas, blocked the inward movement of this ion to the tissue during SD and also changed the K+ movement during the phenomenon in medium with 2 mM MgSO4. We suggest that C1- is an important ion in the ionic balance of the Muller cells and that sucrose must have its site of action at these cells.", "PMID": 450174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9222", "title": "[Assessment of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and vascular changes in angiographic studies in cases of cerebral ischemia].", "content": "In 22 patients the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured after intra-arterial injection of xenon 133Xe. In all patients cerebral angiography was performed after that and in 4 patients aortic arch angiography was done as well. In 2 cases of subclavian artery stenosis with normal state of the branches of the internal carotid artery the rCBF was not decreased. On the other hand, a significant decrease of rCBF was found in cases of transient cerebral ischaemic episodes with angiographically demonstrated bilateral stenosis of the afferent arteries and coexistence of stenosis of the afrerent arteries supplying the brain and intracranial arteries. On the basis of an analysis of rCBF angiograms the authors suggest the conclusion that a joint evaluation of the clinical manifestations, results of rCBF measurements and angiograms increases the accuracy of assessment of the condition of the cerebral circulation in patients qualified for patency-restoring operations.", "contents": "[Assessment of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and vascular changes in angiographic studies in cases of cerebral ischemia]. In 22 patients the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured after intra-arterial injection of xenon 133Xe. In all patients cerebral angiography was performed after that and in 4 patients aortic arch angiography was done as well. In 2 cases of subclavian artery stenosis with normal state of the branches of the internal carotid artery the rCBF was not decreased. On the other hand, a significant decrease of rCBF was found in cases of transient cerebral ischaemic episodes with angiographically demonstrated bilateral stenosis of the afferent arteries and coexistence of stenosis of the afrerent arteries supplying the brain and intracranial arteries. On the basis of an analysis of rCBF angiograms the authors suggest the conclusion that a joint evaluation of the clinical manifestations, results of rCBF measurements and angiograms increases the accuracy of assessment of the condition of the cerebral circulation in patients qualified for patency-restoring operations.", "PMID": 450176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9223", "title": "[Rheoencephalographic evaluation of carotid artery compression test in patients with ischemic cerebral stroke].", "content": "The rheoencephalographic method was applied for evaluating the common carotid artery compression test in 87 cases, including 49 patients with ischaemic strokes and 38 healthy subjects. In all 174 tests were done. No complications were observed. The investigation confirmed the usefulness of the test for the diagnosis of carotid artery occlusion. The test should be used routinely in rheoencephalographic investigations in patients with ischaemic cerebral strokes.", "contents": "[Rheoencephalographic evaluation of carotid artery compression test in patients with ischemic cerebral stroke]. The rheoencephalographic method was applied for evaluating the common carotid artery compression test in 87 cases, including 49 patients with ischaemic strokes and 38 healthy subjects. In all 174 tests were done. No complications were observed. The investigation confirmed the usefulness of the test for the diagnosis of carotid artery occlusion. The test should be used routinely in rheoencephalographic investigations in patients with ischaemic cerebral strokes.", "PMID": 450177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9224", "title": "[Cerebral bioelectric activity disorders in acute intoxication with hypoglycemic agents].", "content": "The authors present 10 acute suicidal poisonings with hypoglycaemic agents with particular reference to the course of disturbances of brain bioelectric activity. In most patients diffuse changes prevailed during the coma in the form of irregular, usually high-voltage slow activity. Normalization of EEG tracings was very slow, often it took several months, although the duration of hypoglycaemia was usually short (1--5 days). In patients with prolonged toxic coma profound structural lesions of the central nervous system developed with appearance of decortication (apallic syndrome). The authors think that the particular severity of central nervous system lesions in these intoxication and the persistence of changes point to the necessity of seeking more efficient measures of treating neuroglycopenia.", "contents": "[Cerebral bioelectric activity disorders in acute intoxication with hypoglycemic agents]. The authors present 10 acute suicidal poisonings with hypoglycaemic agents with particular reference to the course of disturbances of brain bioelectric activity. In most patients diffuse changes prevailed during the coma in the form of irregular, usually high-voltage slow activity. Normalization of EEG tracings was very slow, often it took several months, although the duration of hypoglycaemia was usually short (1--5 days). In patients with prolonged toxic coma profound structural lesions of the central nervous system developed with appearance of decortication (apallic syndrome). The authors think that the particular severity of central nervous system lesions in these intoxication and the persistence of changes point to the necessity of seeking more efficient measures of treating neuroglycopenia.", "PMID": 450178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9225", "title": "[Blood serotonin level in sciatica and the serotonin theory of migraine pathogenesis].", "content": "The blood serotonin level was determined by the fluorescent method of Ashcroft in 13 patients with sciatic pains during the pains and after the disappearance. The serotonin level was usually higher at the time of pains. In the discussion the author reminds that serotonin level falls during a migrainous attack and points out that the results of the present study confirm the specificity of sertonin level fall in migraine.", "contents": "[Blood serotonin level in sciatica and the serotonin theory of migraine pathogenesis]. The blood serotonin level was determined by the fluorescent method of Ashcroft in 13 patients with sciatic pains during the pains and after the disappearance. The serotonin level was usually higher at the time of pains. In the discussion the author reminds that serotonin level falls during a migrainous attack and points out that the results of the present study confirm the specificity of sertonin level fall in migraine.", "PMID": 450180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9226", "title": "[Biochemical and electrophysiological studies in subjects with occupational exposure to lead poisoning].", "content": "In 36 men working in occupations with lead exposure the conduction velocity was measured in the motor fibres of the median, ulnar and peroneal nerves, and determinations were carried out of blood lead level, 24-hour urinary excretion of lead and delta-aminolaevulinic acid, and activity of delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase in the erythrocytes. The comparison of the results of electrophysiological and biochemical investigations shows that lesions of the peripheral nervous system are not always correlated with the biochemical indices of lead poisoning and that peripheral nervous system damage, mainly subclinical, may develop in early period of exposure.", "contents": "[Biochemical and electrophysiological studies in subjects with occupational exposure to lead poisoning]. In 36 men working in occupations with lead exposure the conduction velocity was measured in the motor fibres of the median, ulnar and peroneal nerves, and determinations were carried out of blood lead level, 24-hour urinary excretion of lead and delta-aminolaevulinic acid, and activity of delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase in the erythrocytes. The comparison of the results of electrophysiological and biochemical investigations shows that lesions of the peripheral nervous system are not always correlated with the biochemical indices of lead poisoning and that peripheral nervous system damage, mainly subclinical, may develop in early period of exposure.", "PMID": 450179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9227", "title": "[Role of computerized tomography in the diagnosis of arteriovenous anomalies of the brain].", "content": "The authors describe typical and atypical patterns of cerebral arteriovenous anomalies demonstrated by means of computerized tomography performed in 12 patients in whom these anomalies were found during subsequent operations. The authors compare the advantages and disadvantages of computerized tomography and angiography in the diagnosis of these anomalies.", "contents": "[Role of computerized tomography in the diagnosis of arteriovenous anomalies of the brain]. The authors describe typical and atypical patterns of cerebral arteriovenous anomalies demonstrated by means of computerized tomography performed in 12 patients in whom these anomalies were found during subsequent operations. The authors compare the advantages and disadvantages of computerized tomography and angiography in the diagnosis of these anomalies.", "PMID": 450175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9228", "title": "[Primary malignant lymphoma of the central and peripheral nervous systems].", "content": "The authors present a case of malignant lymphoma in a man aged 64 years. Neoplastic infiltrations mainly in the form of perivascular accumulations were limited to the central nervous system (both central and peripheral). In the histological examinations of internal organs including lymph nodes and spleen no neoplastic tissue was found.", "contents": "[Primary malignant lymphoma of the central and peripheral nervous systems]. The authors present a case of malignant lymphoma in a man aged 64 years. Neoplastic infiltrations mainly in the form of perivascular accumulations were limited to the central nervous system (both central and peripheral). In the histological examinations of internal organs including lymph nodes and spleen no neoplastic tissue was found.", "PMID": 450185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9229", "title": "[Lesions of the insula and operculum: a syndrome].", "content": "A case of a clinical syndrome with transient hemiparesis, hemihypaesthesia, lancinating pains of a hand and \"thalamic\" position of this hand in a 60-year-old women. The clinical diagnosis was that of Dej\u00e9rine-Roussy syndrome. Histological examination disclosed lesion of the lower part of the cortex of the insula, temporal aperculum- ventral part of the claustrum, capsula extrema and externa and also the uncinate and fronto-occipital fascicles.", "contents": "[Lesions of the insula and operculum: a syndrome]. A case of a clinical syndrome with transient hemiparesis, hemihypaesthesia, lancinating pains of a hand and \"thalamic\" position of this hand in a 60-year-old women. The clinical diagnosis was that of Dej\u00e9rine-Roussy syndrome. Histological examination disclosed lesion of the lower part of the cortex of the insula, temporal aperculum- ventral part of the claustrum, capsula extrema and externa and also the uncinate and fronto-occipital fascicles.", "PMID": 450184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9230", "title": "[Pre-sacral epidermoid cyst communicating with spinal CSF cavity (author's transl)].", "content": "A 6-year-old girl was transfered to our hospital because of continuing pleocytosis, and detection of the squamous cells and cholesterin crystals in the CSF. Neurological examination on admission revealed no remarkable disorders, except for weakness of anal sphincter. X-ray examination of the spine showed a deformity of the sacral vertebra. Myelography revealed a pre-sacral cystic tumor, which was connected with spinal CSF cavity at cul-de-sac of the spinal canal by a narrow fistula. The tumor was totally removed and no meningitic sign appeared in postoperative course. Histological examination diagnosed it as a typical epidermoid tumor. Attention should be payed to the location, size, structure and clinical course in this particular case.", "contents": "[Pre-sacral epidermoid cyst communicating with spinal CSF cavity (author's transl)]. A 6-year-old girl was transfered to our hospital because of continuing pleocytosis, and detection of the squamous cells and cholesterin crystals in the CSF. Neurological examination on admission revealed no remarkable disorders, except for weakness of anal sphincter. X-ray examination of the spine showed a deformity of the sacral vertebra. Myelography revealed a pre-sacral cystic tumor, which was connected with spinal CSF cavity at cul-de-sac of the spinal canal by a narrow fistula. The tumor was totally removed and no meningitic sign appeared in postoperative course. Histological examination diagnosed it as a typical epidermoid tumor. Attention should be payed to the location, size, structure and clinical course in this particular case.", "PMID": 450195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9231", "title": "[Three cases of brain injury due to windshield impact (author's transl)].", "content": "Three cases of brain injury due to windshield impact (tempered windshield) were reported. In the case of brain injury, multitude of small cracks injured the frontal lobe through the orbital roof with facial injuries due to windshield impact. Though we are apt to misdiagnose because of very small wounds, the diagnosis can be made easily from the plain film. The craniotomy, with complete removal of glass fragments and dural plasty, must be performed for the purpose of preventing infection and cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. We believe that the use of seat belt and H.P.R. type laminated windshield is the best precaution against the windshield impact.", "contents": "[Three cases of brain injury due to windshield impact (author's transl)]. Three cases of brain injury due to windshield impact (tempered windshield) were reported. In the case of brain injury, multitude of small cracks injured the frontal lobe through the orbital roof with facial injuries due to windshield impact. Though we are apt to misdiagnose because of very small wounds, the diagnosis can be made easily from the plain film. The craniotomy, with complete removal of glass fragments and dural plasty, must be performed for the purpose of preventing infection and cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. We believe that the use of seat belt and H.P.R. type laminated windshield is the best precaution against the windshield impact.", "PMID": 450196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9232", "title": "[Case of intracranial chondroma].", "content": "The authors present a case of intaracranial chondrome originating from the pia mater and discuss the development of intracranial chondromas and role of cranial trauma in it.", "contents": "[Case of intracranial chondroma]. The authors present a case of intaracranial chondrome originating from the pia mater and discuss the development of intracranial chondromas and role of cranial trauma in it.", "PMID": 450186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9233", "title": "Traumatic anterior atlanto-occipital dislocation.", "content": "The five cases of atlanto-occipital dislocation reported in the world literature are reviewed, and four additional cases are presented, including two survivors. The pathological anatomy of this potentially catastrophic injury and its management are briefly discussed. Because immediate recognition of the atlanto-occipital dislocation is critical to proper treatment and because the neurological findings are extremely varied, a new radiographic criterion for its identification has been developed.", "contents": "Traumatic anterior atlanto-occipital dislocation. The five cases of atlanto-occipital dislocation reported in the world literature are reviewed, and four additional cases are presented, including two survivors. The pathological anatomy of this potentially catastrophic injury and its management are briefly discussed. Because immediate recognition of the atlanto-occipital dislocation is critical to proper treatment and because the neurological findings are extremely varied, a new radiographic criterion for its identification has been developed.", "PMID": 450210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9234", "title": "Autogenous skull cranioplasty: fresh and preserved (frozen), with consideration of the cellular response.", "content": "Every craniotomy requires immediate replacement of a fresh autograft of skull or, in the presence of cerebral swelling, delayed reimplantation of preserved autogenous skull. Resumption of osteogenesis, the index of viability, determines the effectiveness of these segments of calvaria in protecting the brain and restoring skull conformity. The cellular response in skull replaced either at the end of craniotomy or after frozen preservation was studied by light and fluorescence microscopy, skull roentgenograms, and radionuclide scintigraphy. In 5 patients eventual total remodeling of skull was found at the time of a second craniotomy performed from 1 to 19 years after the first. In 12 patients skull sections removed aseptically at craniotomy were frozen and stored for 1 to 35 months at -20 degrees C in bacitracin. This cytotoxic preservative method fixed the tissue, which appeared unchanged on light microscopy and was sterile on bacteriological and fungal cultures. In 53 patients who underwent autogenous cranioplasty with skull stored frozen for 3 weeks to 19 months, 48 operations were totally successful. Complications included infections in 2 patients, resorption in 2 infants, and incomplete restoration in 1 adult. In 10 patients the sequential dynamics of skull revitalization were found to be: revascularization, resorption, and accretion. The repair of membranous skull is similar to that of endochondral bone of the skeleton. Skull is metabolically intensely active after reimplantation and is the ideal material for cranioplasty.", "contents": "Autogenous skull cranioplasty: fresh and preserved (frozen), with consideration of the cellular response. Every craniotomy requires immediate replacement of a fresh autograft of skull or, in the presence of cerebral swelling, delayed reimplantation of preserved autogenous skull. Resumption of osteogenesis, the index of viability, determines the effectiveness of these segments of calvaria in protecting the brain and restoring skull conformity. The cellular response in skull replaced either at the end of craniotomy or after frozen preservation was studied by light and fluorescence microscopy, skull roentgenograms, and radionuclide scintigraphy. In 5 patients eventual total remodeling of skull was found at the time of a second craniotomy performed from 1 to 19 years after the first. In 12 patients skull sections removed aseptically at craniotomy were frozen and stored for 1 to 35 months at -20 degrees C in bacitracin. This cytotoxic preservative method fixed the tissue, which appeared unchanged on light microscopy and was sterile on bacteriological and fungal cultures. In 53 patients who underwent autogenous cranioplasty with skull stored frozen for 3 weeks to 19 months, 48 operations were totally successful. Complications included infections in 2 patients, resorption in 2 infants, and incomplete restoration in 1 adult. In 10 patients the sequential dynamics of skull revitalization were found to be: revascularization, resorption, and accretion. The repair of membranous skull is similar to that of endochondral bone of the skeleton. Skull is metabolically intensely active after reimplantation and is the ideal material for cranioplasty.", "PMID": 450211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9235", "title": "A reticulothalamic system mediating proprioceptive attention and tremor in man.", "content": "This report descirbes the electrophysiological characteristics of thalamic and subthalamic targets used to control tremor. In these targets exploratory electrodes recorded one or more of the following events. Electrical stimulation produced enhancement of tremor or other complex motor responses. Somatic evoked potentials (SEPs) induced by proprioceptive stimulation showed only late components, the amplitudes of which changed in various attentive situations. Multiunit activity showed spontaneous 3- to 6-Hz rhythmic bursts. And a lesion produced neglect of contralateral extremities and an ipsilateral decrease of scalp-recorded SEP late components. In contrast, in the areas located immediately posterior and dorsal, electrical stimulation produced contralateral paresthesias. Early components of SEPs could be recorded, as were rhythmic bursts of multiunit activity after the occurrence of peripheral tremor. Lesions produced sensory deficits in the contralateral extremities and ipsilateral blocking of all components of scalp SEPs. The latter areas are identified as the lemniscal system, but the former seem to be extralemniscal. Their electrophysiological characteristics suggest that they are probably involved in the process of selective attention and motor control.", "contents": "A reticulothalamic system mediating proprioceptive attention and tremor in man. This report descirbes the electrophysiological characteristics of thalamic and subthalamic targets used to control tremor. In these targets exploratory electrodes recorded one or more of the following events. Electrical stimulation produced enhancement of tremor or other complex motor responses. Somatic evoked potentials (SEPs) induced by proprioceptive stimulation showed only late components, the amplitudes of which changed in various attentive situations. Multiunit activity showed spontaneous 3- to 6-Hz rhythmic bursts. And a lesion produced neglect of contralateral extremities and an ipsilateral decrease of scalp-recorded SEP late components. In contrast, in the areas located immediately posterior and dorsal, electrical stimulation produced contralateral paresthesias. Early components of SEPs could be recorded, as were rhythmic bursts of multiunit activity after the occurrence of peripheral tremor. Lesions produced sensory deficits in the contralateral extremities and ipsilateral blocking of all components of scalp SEPs. The latter areas are identified as the lemniscal system, but the former seem to be extralemniscal. Their electrophysiological characteristics suggest that they are probably involved in the process of selective attention and motor control.", "PMID": 450212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9236", "title": "Cerebral arterial spasm: part 9. In vitro effects of nifedipine on serotonin-, phenylephrine-, and potassium-induced contractions of canine basilar and femoral arteries.", "content": "We performed in vitro experiments with a small volume chamber to determine the inhibitory effect of nifedipine on serotonin-, phenylephrine-, and potassium-induced contractions of canine basilar and femoral arteries. Nifedipine, an inhibitor of the influx of extracellular calcium into smooth muscle cells, was found to be a sensitive inhibitor of contractions of the basilar artery induced by all three agents. In contrast, nifedipine did not significantly inhibit the serotonin- and phenylephrine-induced contractions of the femoral artery but did inhibit potassium-induced contractions of the femoral artery. Calcium-induced contractions of the basilar artery were also inhibited by nifedipine. These experiments demonstrate a relatively selective effect of nifedipine on the basilar artery, and a mechanism to explain this selective effect is postulated.", "contents": "Cerebral arterial spasm: part 9. In vitro effects of nifedipine on serotonin-, phenylephrine-, and potassium-induced contractions of canine basilar and femoral arteries. We performed in vitro experiments with a small volume chamber to determine the inhibitory effect of nifedipine on serotonin-, phenylephrine-, and potassium-induced contractions of canine basilar and femoral arteries. Nifedipine, an inhibitor of the influx of extracellular calcium into smooth muscle cells, was found to be a sensitive inhibitor of contractions of the basilar artery induced by all three agents. In contrast, nifedipine did not significantly inhibit the serotonin- and phenylephrine-induced contractions of the femoral artery but did inhibit potassium-induced contractions of the femoral artery. Calcium-induced contractions of the basilar artery were also inhibited by nifedipine. These experiments demonstrate a relatively selective effect of nifedipine on the basilar artery, and a mechanism to explain this selective effect is postulated.", "PMID": 450213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9237", "title": "Cerebral arterial spasm: part 10. Reversal of acute and chronic spasm in dogs with orally administered nifedipine.", "content": "In vivo experiments in dogs demonstrated angiographically that the subarachnoid injection of blood produced cerebral arterial apasm both immediately after the injection of blood and 2 days later. The sublingual adminstration of nifedipine reversed both the acute and the delayed cerebral arterial spasm. In addition, sublingual administration of nifedipine 20 minutes before the subarachnoid injection of blood prevented the acute spasm.", "contents": "Cerebral arterial spasm: part 10. Reversal of acute and chronic spasm in dogs with orally administered nifedipine. In vivo experiments in dogs demonstrated angiographically that the subarachnoid injection of blood produced cerebral arterial apasm both immediately after the injection of blood and 2 days later. The sublingual adminstration of nifedipine reversed both the acute and the delayed cerebral arterial spasm. In addition, sublingual administration of nifedipine 20 minutes before the subarachnoid injection of blood prevented the acute spasm.", "PMID": 450214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9238", "title": "Effect of furosemide on experimental traumatic cerebral edema.", "content": "The present study was designed to test the effectiveness of furosemide in reducing cerebral edema due to closed head trauma. A Remington Humane Stunner was used to deliver blows to the heads of anesthetized cats. Impacted animals were divided into three groups: (a) trauma, no drug, and ad lib. fluid intake after head injury; (b) trauma, no drug, and standardized fluid intake (0.9% NaCl; 10 ml/lb/day); and (c) trauma, furosemide (3 mg/lb/day), and standardized fluid intake. For the treated cats, we began furosemide therapy 1 hour after head injury and used three intramuscular injections/day. The animals were killed 48 hours after head trauma. From animals with unilateral contusion, we took bilateral white matter samples from five points along the centrum semiovale and tested for edema using density determinations with an organic density gradient. Serum electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen, and weight were determined before the cats were impacted and before they were killed. All impacted animals demonstrated weight loss. Density data showed a normal water content for white matter in the uncontused hemispheres of all impacted cats. Contused hemispheres showed a significant decrease in density (increase in brain water content) for both treated and untreated cats. In the furosemide-treated animals, however, the brain edema was significantly less than that found in the untreated groups. Analysis of data from individual brain sections of furosemide-treated animals suggested a reduction in the spread of edema fluid 48 hours after head injury.", "contents": "Effect of furosemide on experimental traumatic cerebral edema. The present study was designed to test the effectiveness of furosemide in reducing cerebral edema due to closed head trauma. A Remington Humane Stunner was used to deliver blows to the heads of anesthetized cats. Impacted animals were divided into three groups: (a) trauma, no drug, and ad lib. fluid intake after head injury; (b) trauma, no drug, and standardized fluid intake (0.9% NaCl; 10 ml/lb/day); and (c) trauma, furosemide (3 mg/lb/day), and standardized fluid intake. For the treated cats, we began furosemide therapy 1 hour after head injury and used three intramuscular injections/day. The animals were killed 48 hours after head trauma. From animals with unilateral contusion, we took bilateral white matter samples from five points along the centrum semiovale and tested for edema using density determinations with an organic density gradient. Serum electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen, and weight were determined before the cats were impacted and before they were killed. All impacted animals demonstrated weight loss. Density data showed a normal water content for white matter in the uncontused hemispheres of all impacted cats. Contused hemispheres showed a significant decrease in density (increase in brain water content) for both treated and untreated cats. In the furosemide-treated animals, however, the brain edema was significantly less than that found in the untreated groups. Analysis of data from individual brain sections of furosemide-treated animals suggested a reduction in the spread of edema fluid 48 hours after head injury.", "PMID": 450215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9239", "title": "Influence of arterial blood pressure upon central hemorrhagic necrosis after severe spinal cord injury.", "content": "To determine the influence of systemic arterial blood pressure upon the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury, we eliminated the increase in systemic blood pressure normally observed after trauma to the spinal cord with the ganglionic blocker chlorisondamine. Blockade of the pressure response did not influence the development of hemorrhagic necrosis in the spinal cord. We conclude that the transient pressure response accompanying spinal cord injury is probably not a major factor in the pathogenesis of hemorrhagic necrosis at the site of the spinal cord injury.", "contents": "Influence of arterial blood pressure upon central hemorrhagic necrosis after severe spinal cord injury. To determine the influence of systemic arterial blood pressure upon the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury, we eliminated the increase in systemic blood pressure normally observed after trauma to the spinal cord with the ganglionic blocker chlorisondamine. Blockade of the pressure response did not influence the development of hemorrhagic necrosis in the spinal cord. We conclude that the transient pressure response accompanying spinal cord injury is probably not a major factor in the pathogenesis of hemorrhagic necrosis at the site of the spinal cord injury.", "PMID": 450216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9240", "title": "Chronic extradural hematoma: case report.", "content": "A recent experience with a chronic extradural hematoma found unexpectedly during an evaluation for an enlarged sella turcica is reported. This case, as well as pertinent literature, demonstrates the variability of the classical signs in the chronic lesion. Our experience suggests that the diagnosis of patients with persistent symptoms after head injury may be clarified by computerized tomographic scanning, which in the present case revealed chronic extradural hematoma.", "contents": "Chronic extradural hematoma: case report. A recent experience with a chronic extradural hematoma found unexpectedly during an evaluation for an enlarged sella turcica is reported. This case, as well as pertinent literature, demonstrates the variability of the classical signs in the chronic lesion. Our experience suggests that the diagnosis of patients with persistent symptoms after head injury may be clarified by computerized tomographic scanning, which in the present case revealed chronic extradural hematoma.", "PMID": 450218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9241", "title": "Influence of nitroprusside on cerebral pressure autoregulation.", "content": "The authors studied 10 cats to assess the question of abolition of cerebral autoregulation attendant on the use of nitroprusside for hypotensive anesthesia. After the establishment of stable base line parameters, a continuous infusion of sodium nitroprusside was begun in a dose sufficient to maintain a mean systemic arterial pressure of 65 mm Hg. Infusion was continued for incremental periods of 30 seconds to 10 minutes, increasing the time of infusion by 30 seconds after each subsequent trial. At 10 seconds after the cessation of nitroprusside administration, intravenous dopamine was infused to raise the systemic arterial pressure to a mean of 100 mm Hg, and the subsequent response in intracranial pressure was recorded in each instance. In no animal was a loss of cerebral autoregulation noted when the nitroprusside infusion was maintained for 3 minute or less. When the infusion was maintained for 4 minutes or longer, cerebral autoregulation was lost in each animal, and the length of time to return of cerebral autoregulation correlated with the duration of nitroprusside infusion. Sodium nitroprusside disturbs the integrity of cerebral pressure autoregulation, and the onset and extent of this disturbance is a dose-dependent phenomenon.", "contents": "Influence of nitroprusside on cerebral pressure autoregulation. The authors studied 10 cats to assess the question of abolition of cerebral autoregulation attendant on the use of nitroprusside for hypotensive anesthesia. After the establishment of stable base line parameters, a continuous infusion of sodium nitroprusside was begun in a dose sufficient to maintain a mean systemic arterial pressure of 65 mm Hg. Infusion was continued for incremental periods of 30 seconds to 10 minutes, increasing the time of infusion by 30 seconds after each subsequent trial. At 10 seconds after the cessation of nitroprusside administration, intravenous dopamine was infused to raise the systemic arterial pressure to a mean of 100 mm Hg, and the subsequent response in intracranial pressure was recorded in each instance. In no animal was a loss of cerebral autoregulation noted when the nitroprusside infusion was maintained for 3 minute or less. When the infusion was maintained for 4 minutes or longer, cerebral autoregulation was lost in each animal, and the length of time to return of cerebral autoregulation correlated with the duration of nitroprusside infusion. Sodium nitroprusside disturbs the integrity of cerebral pressure autoregulation, and the onset and extent of this disturbance is a dose-dependent phenomenon.", "PMID": 450217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9242", "title": "Trans-sphenoidal removal of a Rathke's cleft cyst.", "content": "Symptomatic Rathke's cleft cysts are uncommon. We present a case with suprasellar extension manifested by hypopituitarism and visual disturbances. The treatment was trans-sphenoidal evacuation and partial removal of the capsule. We suggest that the trans-sphenoidal approach to these lesions is usually adequate and that radical removal of the capsule is not necessary.", "contents": "Trans-sphenoidal removal of a Rathke's cleft cyst. Symptomatic Rathke's cleft cysts are uncommon. We present a case with suprasellar extension manifested by hypopituitarism and visual disturbances. The treatment was trans-sphenoidal evacuation and partial removal of the capsule. We suggest that the trans-sphenoidal approach to these lesions is usually adequate and that radical removal of the capsule is not necessary.", "PMID": 450219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9243", "title": "Neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus: report of two cases.", "content": "Two cases of solitary neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus unassociated with von Recklinghausen's disease are presented. One patient had a malignant schwannoma. The lesion of the other patient was benign and was diagnosed pathologically as a plexiform neurofibroma. These uncommon neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus unassociated with von Recklinghausen's disease pose diagnostic and surgical problems. The initial clinical presentation is usually that of a painless supraclavicular mass. At the time of surgical exploration, the exact site or nerve of origin cannot always be identified. If motor loss is caused by such a tumor of the brachial plexus, it usually indicates a malignant lesion and a poor prognosis. Although wide radical excision of a malignant neurogenic tumor is indicated surgically, one of our patients had an early malignant recurrence that necessitated immediate amputation.", "contents": "Neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus: report of two cases. Two cases of solitary neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus unassociated with von Recklinghausen's disease are presented. One patient had a malignant schwannoma. The lesion of the other patient was benign and was diagnosed pathologically as a plexiform neurofibroma. These uncommon neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus unassociated with von Recklinghausen's disease pose diagnostic and surgical problems. The initial clinical presentation is usually that of a painless supraclavicular mass. At the time of surgical exploration, the exact site or nerve of origin cannot always be identified. If motor loss is caused by such a tumor of the brachial plexus, it usually indicates a malignant lesion and a poor prognosis. Although wide radical excision of a malignant neurogenic tumor is indicated surgically, one of our patients had an early malignant recurrence that necessitated immediate amputation.", "PMID": 450220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9244", "title": "Accessory light for the surgical microscope.", "content": "This report describes a new accessory fiberoptic light for the most widely used surgical microscope. The advantages of this light are that it permits easy sterile draping of the microscope, does not require a special lens cover, can be adjusted to vary the size and location of the field of illumination, and produces minimal interference with the passage of microinstruments into the operative exposure.", "contents": "Accessory light for the surgical microscope. This report describes a new accessory fiberoptic light for the most widely used surgical microscope. The advantages of this light are that it permits easy sterile draping of the microscope, does not require a special lens cover, can be adjusted to vary the size and location of the field of illumination, and produces minimal interference with the passage of microinstruments into the operative exposure.", "PMID": 450222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9245", "title": "Cerebellar infarction.", "content": "Cerebellar infarction has been inadequately recognized by clinicians. A review of 75 cases showed that in 55 of them the infarct acted as an expanding mass lesion and compressed the brain stem. Once this occurred, the mortality without operation was very high. With surgical treatment, the mortality was reduced considerably. The computerized tomographic scan is the diagnostic test of choice.", "contents": "Cerebellar infarction. Cerebellar infarction has been inadequately recognized by clinicians. A review of 75 cases showed that in 55 of them the infarct acted as an expanding mass lesion and compressed the brain stem. Once this occurred, the mortality without operation was very high. With surgical treatment, the mortality was reduced considerably. The computerized tomographic scan is the diagnostic test of choice.", "PMID": 450221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9246", "title": "Prognosis of patients with severe head injury.", "content": "The relationship between clinical features of brain dysfunction in the first week after severe head injury and outcome 6 months later has been analyzed for 1000 patients. Depth of coma, pupil reaction, eye movements, and motor response pattern, and patient age prove to be the most reliable predictors. The degree of brain dysfunction changes markedly soon after injury, and more reliable predictions of outcome result when assessment is based on the best level of functioning recorded in each early epoch. Predictions based on very early assessment are, therefore, often unduly pessimistic. Individual predictions of outcome, based on a large data bank, provide a powerful tool for assessing the relative efficacy of alternative treatments.", "contents": "Prognosis of patients with severe head injury. The relationship between clinical features of brain dysfunction in the first week after severe head injury and outcome 6 months later has been analyzed for 1000 patients. Depth of coma, pupil reaction, eye movements, and motor response pattern, and patient age prove to be the most reliable predictors. The degree of brain dysfunction changes markedly soon after injury, and more reliable predictions of outcome result when assessment is based on the best level of functioning recorded in each early epoch. Predictions based on very early assessment are, therefore, often unduly pessimistic. Individual predictions of outcome, based on a large data bank, provide a powerful tool for assessing the relative efficacy of alternative treatments.", "PMID": 450225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9247", "title": "Enhancement of experimental cerebral edema after decompressive craniectomy: implications for the management of severe head injuries.", "content": "Decompressive craniectomy has been advocated as a treatment for the cerebral edema associated with massive head injury. Although craniectomy has been successful in lowering intracranial pressure after head injury, a comparison of computerized tomographic scans of comparable patients with traumatic brain edema treated by medical means or decompressive craniectomy showed that bony decompression resulted in apparent exacerbation of edema. To investigate the possibility of enhancement of brain edema by craniectomy, we produced standardized cold lesions in the brains of 10 dogs. Five animals served as controls. In the other 5 animals we performed large decompressive craniectomies after lesioning. Physiological parameters were comparable in both groups. The dogs were killed 8 hours after lesioning. After fixation, their brains were cut into 1-mm-thick slices. We used an image analysis facility built around a PDP 11/105 computer to measure the volume of edema as outlined by Evans blue staining. The mean volume of the brain edema in the control animals was 0.27 +/- 0.19 ml. Mean edema volume was over 7 times greater in craniectomized animals (1.96 +/- 1.89 ml). This difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.05). The driving force for the formation of edema fluid is the difference between intravascular and interstitial presssure. Decompression of the brain by bone removal probably results in a reduction of interstitial fluid pressure and edema enhancement. The clinical literature contains no evidence that craniectomy decreases the morbidity or mortality of human head injury. In view of our experimental findings, this is not surprising. Indeed, pathological evidence indicates that severe edema (such as that accentuated by craniectomy) may produce permanent changes in the neuropil.", "contents": "Enhancement of experimental cerebral edema after decompressive craniectomy: implications for the management of severe head injuries. Decompressive craniectomy has been advocated as a treatment for the cerebral edema associated with massive head injury. Although craniectomy has been successful in lowering intracranial pressure after head injury, a comparison of computerized tomographic scans of comparable patients with traumatic brain edema treated by medical means or decompressive craniectomy showed that bony decompression resulted in apparent exacerbation of edema. To investigate the possibility of enhancement of brain edema by craniectomy, we produced standardized cold lesions in the brains of 10 dogs. Five animals served as controls. In the other 5 animals we performed large decompressive craniectomies after lesioning. Physiological parameters were comparable in both groups. The dogs were killed 8 hours after lesioning. After fixation, their brains were cut into 1-mm-thick slices. We used an image analysis facility built around a PDP 11/105 computer to measure the volume of edema as outlined by Evans blue staining. The mean volume of the brain edema in the control animals was 0.27 +/- 0.19 ml. Mean edema volume was over 7 times greater in craniectomized animals (1.96 +/- 1.89 ml). This difference is statistically significant (p less than 0.05). The driving force for the formation of edema fluid is the difference between intravascular and interstitial presssure. Decompression of the brain by bone removal probably results in a reduction of interstitial fluid pressure and edema enhancement. The clinical literature contains no evidence that craniectomy decreases the morbidity or mortality of human head injury. In view of our experimental findings, this is not surprising. Indeed, pathological evidence indicates that severe edema (such as that accentuated by craniectomy) may produce permanent changes in the neuropil.", "PMID": 450227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9248", "title": "Ultrasonic B-scan echoarteriographic imaging of experimentally induced thrombi in dogs.", "content": "Ultrasonic echoarteriography is a noninvasive method of visualizing extracranial arteries in health and disease. The real-time echoscanning device developed at the University of Cincinnatti utilizes a 5-MHz (center frequency) pulse-echoimaging system. B-mode pictures of the tissues studied are obtained and displayed on a video screen, real-time operation being provided by the scanning mechanism operating at 30 frames per second. In our experiments internal arterial damage produced by surgically scraping the intima induced experimental thrombosis in nine carotid in nine carotid and three femoral arteries in dogs. Where pathologically demonstrated, the thrombi were demonstrated by ultrasonic echoarteriography in every instance. Echoarteriography seemed more sensitive than contrast arteriography in the detection of a partially occlusive thrombus.", "contents": "Ultrasonic B-scan echoarteriographic imaging of experimentally induced thrombi in dogs. Ultrasonic echoarteriography is a noninvasive method of visualizing extracranial arteries in health and disease. The real-time echoscanning device developed at the University of Cincinnatti utilizes a 5-MHz (center frequency) pulse-echoimaging system. B-mode pictures of the tissues studied are obtained and displayed on a video screen, real-time operation being provided by the scanning mechanism operating at 30 frames per second. In our experiments internal arterial damage produced by surgically scraping the intima induced experimental thrombosis in nine carotid in nine carotid and three femoral arteries in dogs. Where pathologically demonstrated, the thrombi were demonstrated by ultrasonic echoarteriography in every instance. Echoarteriography seemed more sensitive than contrast arteriography in the detection of a partially occlusive thrombus.", "PMID": 450228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9249", "title": "Heterotransplantation of human craniopharyngiomas in athymic \"nude\" mice.", "content": "Surgical biopsies from 2 human craniopharyngiomas were transplanted subcutaneously into 6 athymic \"nude\" mice. Morphologically characteristic craniopharyngiomas grew in 5 of these animals. In 4 animals growth was sufficient to allow transplantation into a second generation of animals. In all, 11 craniopharyngiomas were present at autopsy in the 14 animals into which the tumors had been transplanted. The tumors that grew in the animals had the same adamantinomatous architecture, epithelial nests, and keratinized nodules that were present in the original surgical sample and that are characteristic of human craniopharyngiomas. It may be possible to study growth characteristics and therapeutic sensitivities of human craniopharygniomas growing in \"nude\" mice.", "contents": "Heterotransplantation of human craniopharyngiomas in athymic \"nude\" mice. Surgical biopsies from 2 human craniopharyngiomas were transplanted subcutaneously into 6 athymic \"nude\" mice. Morphologically characteristic craniopharyngiomas grew in 5 of these animals. In 4 animals growth was sufficient to allow transplantation into a second generation of animals. In all, 11 craniopharyngiomas were present at autopsy in the 14 animals into which the tumors had been transplanted. The tumors that grew in the animals had the same adamantinomatous architecture, epithelial nests, and keratinized nodules that were present in the original surgical sample and that are characteristic of human craniopharyngiomas. It may be possible to study growth characteristics and therapeutic sensitivities of human craniopharygniomas growing in \"nude\" mice.", "PMID": 450229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9250", "title": "Resection of multiple nocardial brain abscesses: diagnostic role of computerized tomography.", "content": "We present a case of multiple brain lesions in which the preoperative computerized tomographic (CT) scan suggested the presence of brain abscesses rather than metastatic tumors. The patient presented with symptoms of left frontal and right cerebellar mass lesions, confirmed by carotid and vertebral arteriography and a radionuclide brain scan. A CT scan revealed multiple contiguous ring-enhancing lesions of various sizes at both sites. With the exception of a prior mild pulmonary infection, no findings suggested underlying malignancy, immunosuppression, or medical illness. We based our decision to administer antibiotics preoperatively on the presumed presence of abscess. We found and totally removed two multiloculated abscesses during one operation and initiated sulfa drug therapy (sulfisoxazole) immediately after identification of the Nocardia organism. The patient experienced no postoperative complications and at 6-months follow-up is clinically free of disease.", "contents": "Resection of multiple nocardial brain abscesses: diagnostic role of computerized tomography. We present a case of multiple brain lesions in which the preoperative computerized tomographic (CT) scan suggested the presence of brain abscesses rather than metastatic tumors. The patient presented with symptoms of left frontal and right cerebellar mass lesions, confirmed by carotid and vertebral arteriography and a radionuclide brain scan. A CT scan revealed multiple contiguous ring-enhancing lesions of various sizes at both sites. With the exception of a prior mild pulmonary infection, no findings suggested underlying malignancy, immunosuppression, or medical illness. We based our decision to administer antibiotics preoperatively on the presumed presence of abscess. We found and totally removed two multiloculated abscesses during one operation and initiated sulfa drug therapy (sulfisoxazole) immediately after identification of the Nocardia organism. The patient experienced no postoperative complications and at 6-months follow-up is clinically free of disease.", "PMID": 450230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9251", "title": "Recurrent intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma: diagnosis and treatment.", "content": "We present a patient with a recurrent intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma. The computerized tomographic scan appearance of this lesion is illustrated. Of the 81 reported cases of intracranial blastomycosis, only 35 have represented solid intracerebral lesions; the other patients have had spinal lesions or meningitis. This patient represents the first reported recurrence of an intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma. The treatment utilized, surgical resection combined with intravenous and intraventricular amphotericin B, represents a unique approach to this problem. The diagnosis and currently advocated treatment of intracranial blastomycosis is reviewed, particularly in regard to the potential for recurrence of blastomycosis.", "contents": "Recurrent intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma: diagnosis and treatment. We present a patient with a recurrent intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma. The computerized tomographic scan appearance of this lesion is illustrated. Of the 81 reported cases of intracranial blastomycosis, only 35 have represented solid intracerebral lesions; the other patients have had spinal lesions or meningitis. This patient represents the first reported recurrence of an intracerebral blastomycotic granuloma. The treatment utilized, surgical resection combined with intravenous and intraventricular amphotericin B, represents a unique approach to this problem. The diagnosis and currently advocated treatment of intracranial blastomycosis is reviewed, particularly in regard to the potential for recurrence of blastomycosis.", "PMID": 450231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9252", "title": "Xanthogranulomas of the third ventricle.", "content": "Two patients with xanthogranuloma of the 3rd ventricle are described. In each instance the tumor obstructed the interventricular foramina and caused dilatation of the lateral ventricles and signs of increased intracranial pressure; computerized tomography demonstrated the dense, nonenhancing lesion in the anterior 3rd ventricle. The pathogenesis of these rare tumors is discussed. These cases affirm the need to consider xanthogranuloma in the differential diagnosis of anterior 3rd ventricle tumors in adults.", "contents": "Xanthogranulomas of the third ventricle. Two patients with xanthogranuloma of the 3rd ventricle are described. In each instance the tumor obstructed the interventricular foramina and caused dilatation of the lateral ventricles and signs of increased intracranial pressure; computerized tomography demonstrated the dense, nonenhancing lesion in the anterior 3rd ventricle. The pathogenesis of these rare tumors is discussed. These cases affirm the need to consider xanthogranuloma in the differential diagnosis of anterior 3rd ventricle tumors in adults.", "PMID": 450232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9253", "title": "Extracranial-intracranial arterial bypass to a single branch of the middle cerebral artery in the management of a traumatic aneurysm.", "content": "This case required the clipping of a single branch of the middle cerebral artery for the treatment of a traumatic aneurysm. To ensure an adequate blood supply distal to the occlusion, we anastomosed the superficial temporal artery to that branch of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) distal to the aneurysm. Despite the low flow required to irrigate only one branch of the MCA, the anastomosis remained patient. This case demonstrates the feasibility of performing small vessel anastomoses in spite of low flow demand.", "contents": "Extracranial-intracranial arterial bypass to a single branch of the middle cerebral artery in the management of a traumatic aneurysm. This case required the clipping of a single branch of the middle cerebral artery for the treatment of a traumatic aneurysm. To ensure an adequate blood supply distal to the occlusion, we anastomosed the superficial temporal artery to that branch of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) distal to the aneurysm. Despite the low flow required to irrigate only one branch of the MCA, the anastomosis remained patient. This case demonstrates the feasibility of performing small vessel anastomoses in spite of low flow demand.", "PMID": 450233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9254", "title": "Scanning electron microscopy in the evaluation of neurosurgical neoplasms: a review of new approaches.", "content": "Present and potential applications of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to the study of solid neoplasms, the lining of cysts, exfoliated cells, mineral deposits, and supporting tissues of the central nervous system (CNS) are discussed. Special features of the SEM image include a large field of view and depth of focus, high resolution, and a three-dimensional impression of surface topography. These features have contributed a clearer understanding of similarities between colloid cyst and olfactory epithelium. They demonstrated differences between glial and nonglial fibrils of selected CNS neoplasms. These features may ultimately enhance decisions, diagnosis, and study of neoplastic origins and spread within the CNS and cerebrospinal fluid. Special features of tissue examination by SEM include processing without the need of thin sections and elemental analysis by X-ray spectroscopy. These features have been applied to studies of calcium and thorium associated with meningiomas and a schwannoma.", "contents": "Scanning electron microscopy in the evaluation of neurosurgical neoplasms: a review of new approaches. Present and potential applications of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to the study of solid neoplasms, the lining of cysts, exfoliated cells, mineral deposits, and supporting tissues of the central nervous system (CNS) are discussed. Special features of the SEM image include a large field of view and depth of focus, high resolution, and a three-dimensional impression of surface topography. These features have contributed a clearer understanding of similarities between colloid cyst and olfactory epithelium. They demonstrated differences between glial and nonglial fibrils of selected CNS neoplasms. These features may ultimately enhance decisions, diagnosis, and study of neoplastic origins and spread within the CNS and cerebrospinal fluid. Special features of tissue examination by SEM include processing without the need of thin sections and elemental analysis by X-ray spectroscopy. These features have been applied to studies of calcium and thorium associated with meningiomas and a schwannoma.", "PMID": 450235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9255", "title": "Computed tomography of the human skeletal muscular system.", "content": "A description of different levels of the normal adult human skeletal muscular system is given as derived by computed tomography (CT). A standard program is presented by which a maximum number of muscles which are affected by neuromuscular diseases can be examined with a minimum of radiation. Twenty-four patients of different ages, 12 males and 12 females, were examined. Descriptions of different levels of the skeletal muscular system, with measurements of cross-section and density of a number of important marker muscles are presented. Variations of these parameters with age, sex, and cerebral dominance are discussed. It is concluded that CT scans can greatly enhance our insight into the effects of neuromusclar diseases on normal and abnormal skeletal muscles.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the human skeletal muscular system. A description of different levels of the normal adult human skeletal muscular system is given as derived by computed tomography (CT). A standard program is presented by which a maximum number of muscles which are affected by neuromuscular diseases can be examined with a minimum of radiation. Twenty-four patients of different ages, 12 males and 12 females, were examined. Descriptions of different levels of the skeletal muscular system, with measurements of cross-section and density of a number of important marker muscles are presented. Variations of these parameters with age, sex, and cerebral dominance are discussed. It is concluded that CT scans can greatly enhance our insight into the effects of neuromusclar diseases on normal and abnormal skeletal muscles.", "PMID": 450236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9256", "title": "Angiography and computed tomography in the evaluation of cerebral venous malformations.", "content": "The information obtained by computed tomography (CT) and cerebral angiography is compared in eight cases of cerebral venous malformation. Angiography was found to be more reliable for detecting the presence and specific nature of these malformations. Pathological and radiographic differential features between the various forms of cerebral vascular malformations are discussed.", "contents": "Angiography and computed tomography in the evaluation of cerebral venous malformations. The information obtained by computed tomography (CT) and cerebral angiography is compared in eight cases of cerebral venous malformation. Angiography was found to be more reliable for detecting the presence and specific nature of these malformations. Pathological and radiographic differential features between the various forms of cerebral vascular malformations are discussed.", "PMID": 450237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9257", "title": "Meningioma of the paranasal sinuses.", "content": "Meningiomas originating in the paranasal sinuses are rare. These tumors are thought to arise from embryonal arachnoid nests which were pinched off and left behind during embryonic development. We have described various radiographic findings of two patients with meningioma arising in the paranasal sinuses (frontal sinus origin in a 65-year-old female, and sphenoid sinus origin in a 26-year-old female). The paranasal origin of meningioma was accurately determined on the basis of CT and arteriography. A review of the 11 cases previously reported and our cases indicates that there are no specific clinical or radiographic findings of meningiomas of the paranasal sinuses.", "contents": "Meningioma of the paranasal sinuses. Meningiomas originating in the paranasal sinuses are rare. These tumors are thought to arise from embryonal arachnoid nests which were pinched off and left behind during embryonic development. We have described various radiographic findings of two patients with meningioma arising in the paranasal sinuses (frontal sinus origin in a 65-year-old female, and sphenoid sinus origin in a 26-year-old female). The paranasal origin of meningioma was accurately determined on the basis of CT and arteriography. A review of the 11 cases previously reported and our cases indicates that there are no specific clinical or radiographic findings of meningiomas of the paranasal sinuses.", "PMID": 450238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9258", "title": "The superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery: meningeal supply to petrous ridge meningiomas.", "content": "The superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery arising from the second portion of the ophthalmic artery is rarely visible angiographically. Described herein is a patient having a recurrent ophthalmic artery which had hypertrophied to a degree sufficient to supply a highly vascularized meningioma of the petrous ridge. Coexistence of marginal tentorial branches, namely the superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery and the meningohypophyseal trunk, is an embryological dilemma. Furthermore, this case demonstrates the capacity of the ophthalmic artery to supply posteriorly situated neoplasms.", "contents": "The superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery: meningeal supply to petrous ridge meningiomas. The superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery arising from the second portion of the ophthalmic artery is rarely visible angiographically. Described herein is a patient having a recurrent ophthalmic artery which had hypertrophied to a degree sufficient to supply a highly vascularized meningioma of the petrous ridge. Coexistence of marginal tentorial branches, namely the superficial recurrent ophthalmic artery and the meningohypophyseal trunk, is an embryological dilemma. Furthermore, this case demonstrates the capacity of the ophthalmic artery to supply posteriorly situated neoplasms.", "PMID": 450239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9259", "title": "The rotational component in the dynamics of the C2-3 spinal segment.", "content": "The technique of the PA axial projection of the arches of the upper cervical vertebrae into the occipital foramen and the normal findings, are described. The influence of maximum forced anteflexion at the craniocervical junction and rotation of the head on the relations of atlas and axis is demonstrated. It seems that in this position rotation at atlas-axis level is restricted and partly transmitted to the C2-3 segment. Thus, selective clinical examination of the rotational component of the dynamics at C2-3 can be achieved and the pathological restrictions of movement can be assessed.", "contents": "The rotational component in the dynamics of the C2-3 spinal segment. The technique of the PA axial projection of the arches of the upper cervical vertebrae into the occipital foramen and the normal findings, are described. The influence of maximum forced anteflexion at the craniocervical junction and rotation of the head on the relations of atlas and axis is demonstrated. It seems that in this position rotation at atlas-axis level is restricted and partly transmitted to the C2-3 segment. Thus, selective clinical examination of the rotational component of the dynamics at C2-3 can be achieved and the pathological restrictions of movement can be assessed.", "PMID": 450240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9260", "title": "Cervical double contrast myelocisternography by the lateral approach (technical note).", "content": "A simple method for the combined examination of the cervical spinal canal with Amipaque, and of the craniocervical junction with air, by one and the same puncture without changing the patient's position during the examination, is described.", "contents": "Cervical double contrast myelocisternography by the lateral approach (technical note). A simple method for the combined examination of the cervical spinal canal with Amipaque, and of the craniocervical junction with air, by one and the same puncture without changing the patient's position during the examination, is described.", "PMID": 450241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9261", "title": "Passage of Amipaque (metrizamide) through the arachnoid granulations.", "content": "125I labelled Amipaque (metrizamide) was introduced by cisternal puncture into six rabbits and perfused at various pressures. The torcular was exposed, frozen rapidly, and excised intact. Sections of arachnoid proliferations were made from the frozen specimen and either freeze dried or sandwiched directly for autoradiography. Some specimens were freeze dried en bloc prior to sectioning and sandwiching. All sections were exposed for 2-3 weeks at -80 degrees C prior to development of the autoradiographs. On microscopic examinations of the autoradiographs most of the activity was in the tubules or between cells suggesting intercellular passage. Some label was also present within the brain. The significance of this is discussed.", "contents": "Passage of Amipaque (metrizamide) through the arachnoid granulations. 125I labelled Amipaque (metrizamide) was introduced by cisternal puncture into six rabbits and perfused at various pressures. The torcular was exposed, frozen rapidly, and excised intact. Sections of arachnoid proliferations were made from the frozen specimen and either freeze dried or sandwiched directly for autoradiography. Some specimens were freeze dried en bloc prior to sectioning and sandwiching. All sections were exposed for 2-3 weeks at -80 degrees C prior to development of the autoradiographs. On microscopic examinations of the autoradiographs most of the activity was in the tubules or between cells suggesting intercellular passage. Some label was also present within the brain. The significance of this is discussed.", "PMID": 450242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9262", "title": "Evaluation of the internal auditory meatus with acoustic neuromas using computed tomography.", "content": "Forty-seven patients with 48 unoperated acoustic neuromas have been studied by computed tomography (CT) with respect to bone changes. CT and conventional X-ray examination of the skull were compared. The importance of using a small collimator, proper selection of the plane of the CT section and changing of the window level is stressed. CT detects porus changes as accurately as conventional X-ray methods.", "contents": "Evaluation of the internal auditory meatus with acoustic neuromas using computed tomography. Forty-seven patients with 48 unoperated acoustic neuromas have been studied by computed tomography (CT) with respect to bone changes. CT and conventional X-ray examination of the skull were compared. The importance of using a small collimator, proper selection of the plane of the CT section and changing of the window level is stressed. CT detects porus changes as accurately as conventional X-ray methods.", "PMID": 450243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9263", "title": "The contracting cord sign of multiple sclerosis.", "content": "A new sign of multiple sclerosis, the contracting cord sign, is described. The myelographic demonstration of a large cord that subsequently decreases in size may suggest multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of an enlarged spinal cord. Distinguishing between the collapsing cord and the contracting cord is discussed.", "contents": "The contracting cord sign of multiple sclerosis. A new sign of multiple sclerosis, the contracting cord sign, is described. The myelographic demonstration of a large cord that subsequently decreases in size may suggest multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of an enlarged spinal cord. Distinguishing between the collapsing cord and the contracting cord is discussed.", "PMID": 450244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9264", "title": "Radiolucent intracranial dermoid Cyst. Report of an unusual case.", "content": "An intracranial dermoid cyst presenting as a radiolucent mass on the plain radiographs of the skull is described.", "contents": "Radiolucent intracranial dermoid Cyst. Report of an unusual case. An intracranial dermoid cyst presenting as a radiolucent mass on the plain radiographs of the skull is described.", "PMID": 450245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9265", "title": "Spontaneous rupture of a pineal teratoma.", "content": "A case of a spontaneously ruptured pineal teratoma is presented. This was diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) and was confirmed later at operation.", "contents": "Spontaneous rupture of a pineal teratoma. A case of a spontaneously ruptured pineal teratoma is presented. This was diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) and was confirmed later at operation.", "PMID": 450246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9266", "title": "Unusual metastases from a medulloblastoma: case report.", "content": "Calvarial and extracranial metastases by hematogenous spread of primary intracranial neoplasms have been considered a rare occurrence. This report deals with the clinicopathological and radiological findings of a child with metastatic medulloblastoma. Correlation of serial postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and the autopsy examination indicated hematogenous calvarial and intracranial spread of the primary lesion.", "contents": "Unusual metastases from a medulloblastoma: case report. Calvarial and extracranial metastases by hematogenous spread of primary intracranial neoplasms have been considered a rare occurrence. This report deals with the clinicopathological and radiological findings of a child with metastatic medulloblastoma. Correlation of serial postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and the autopsy examination indicated hematogenous calvarial and intracranial spread of the primary lesion.", "PMID": 450247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9267", "title": "Computed tomography of intracerebral toruloma.", "content": "The CT features of intracerebral toruloma are described and the clinicopathological features briefly reviewed. The diagnosis of intracerebral toruloma should be considered when pulmonary opacities are associated with multiple intracerebral enhancing masses.", "contents": "Computed tomography of intracerebral toruloma. The CT features of intracerebral toruloma are described and the clinicopathological features briefly reviewed. The diagnosis of intracerebral toruloma should be considered when pulmonary opacities are associated with multiple intracerebral enhancing masses.", "PMID": 450248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9268", "title": "Ruptured aneurysm of an azygos anterior cerebral artery.", "content": "A ruptured saccular aneurysm of the azygos pericallosal artery was found and clipped successfully in a woman of 47 years. Aneurysm of an azygos pericallosal artery is extremely rare.", "contents": "Ruptured aneurysm of an azygos anterior cerebral artery. A ruptured saccular aneurysm of the azygos pericallosal artery was found and clipped successfully in a woman of 47 years. Aneurysm of an azygos pericallosal artery is extremely rare.", "PMID": 450249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9269", "title": "[Therapeutic value of the cell separator. Review and case reports].", "content": "The advent of continuous-s, semicontinuous-flow centrifugation and filtration leukapheresis systems permits the procurement of large quantities of granulocytes and platelets from single donors and the removal of abnormal excessive blood components (plateletpheresis, lymphapheresis, eosinapheresis, plasma exchange). This paper describes therapeutic applications of CFC, SCFC, FL in various disease processes; the results are discussed. Our data agree with those reported by the litterature.", "contents": "[Therapeutic value of the cell separator. Review and case reports]. The advent of continuous-s, semicontinuous-flow centrifugation and filtration leukapheresis systems permits the procurement of large quantities of granulocytes and platelets from single donors and the removal of abnormal excessive blood components (plateletpheresis, lymphapheresis, eosinapheresis, plasma exchange). This paper describes therapeutic applications of CFC, SCFC, FL in various disease processes; the results are discussed. Our data agree with those reported by the litterature.", "PMID": 450268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9270", "title": "[Specific hyposensitizing therapy. Considerations on its effectiveness and validity].", "content": "The Authors reported on the effects of the specific desensitizing therapy performed by them on 684 patients suffering from different allergies (rhinitis, asthma from pollens and other inaled agents) who were put under observation from 1-1-1970 to 13-12-1972 and treated for several years. The survey ends with comparisons between the results of similar studies effected by other Authors.", "contents": "[Specific hyposensitizing therapy. Considerations on its effectiveness and validity]. The Authors reported on the effects of the specific desensitizing therapy performed by them on 684 patients suffering from different allergies (rhinitis, asthma from pollens and other inaled agents) who were put under observation from 1-1-1970 to 13-12-1972 and treated for several years. The survey ends with comparisons between the results of similar studies effected by other Authors.", "PMID": 450269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9271", "title": "[Mondor's disease. Considerations on 5 cases].", "content": "The clinical, anatomical, topographical and pathological features of Mondor's disease are described, and five personal cases are presented. Their aetiopathogenetic characteristics reflect the doubts expressed in the literature. Stress is laid on the benign nature of the disease, the possibility of treating it at the out-patient level, and the complete remission of both subjective and objective symptoms obtainable in the space of a few weeks.", "contents": "[Mondor's disease. Considerations on 5 cases]. The clinical, anatomical, topographical and pathological features of Mondor's disease are described, and five personal cases are presented. Their aetiopathogenetic characteristics reflect the doubts expressed in the literature. Stress is laid on the benign nature of the disease, the possibility of treating it at the out-patient level, and the complete remission of both subjective and objective symptoms obtainable in the space of a few weeks.", "PMID": 450272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9272", "title": "[Prognostic factors in thromboembolectomy with the Fogarty catheter for acute ischemia of the limbs].", "content": "The Authors describe the results obtained in 181 patients treated with thromboembolectomy by Fogarty catheter for acute limb ischaemia. Data were analyzed with the help of a set of computer programs for statistical computations, and some highly significant prognostic factors were determined: ischaemia duration and severity cause a substantial increase of both death and amputation probability; associate diseases or thrombosis are significant factors for amputation; occlusion level for death. The patients whose limb was saved without the pulse being present were characterized by ASO or thrombosis.", "contents": "[Prognostic factors in thromboembolectomy with the Fogarty catheter for acute ischemia of the limbs]. The Authors describe the results obtained in 181 patients treated with thromboembolectomy by Fogarty catheter for acute limb ischaemia. Data were analyzed with the help of a set of computer programs for statistical computations, and some highly significant prognostic factors were determined: ischaemia duration and severity cause a substantial increase of both death and amputation probability; associate diseases or thrombosis are significant factors for amputation; occlusion level for death. The patients whose limb was saved without the pulse being present were characterized by ASO or thrombosis.", "PMID": 450274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9273", "title": "[Non-invasive method of control of myocardial function in post-infarction patients treated with digitalis glycosides. Polygraphic and echocardiographic methods].", "content": "Following the guide of the publications written by Weissler, Thomas, Ahmed, Perry, Buyukoztur, Rahimotola, the Authors have executed on 25 patients with results of the myocardic infarction a polygraphic examination, comparing the variations of the intervals of the systolic time (STI) with the modifications of the fraction of the ejection (Fe) and of the velocity of the circular fibres (Vcf), calculated with echocardiographic method. From the results obtained the Authors have concluded that there is a perfect correspondence among the alterated values of the isovolumetric contraction time (TCIV), preejection period (PEP), LVET/PEP, and the variations of the Fe and Vcf, and furthermore the amelioration obtained with the digitalis therapy are controlled justly with both the methods. In conclusion both the polygraphic examination and the echocardiographic examination consent a perfect control of the patients with results of the miocardic infarction if they are subject to a digitalis treatment or not, and furthermore they permit a functional valutation of the patient.", "contents": "[Non-invasive method of control of myocardial function in post-infarction patients treated with digitalis glycosides. Polygraphic and echocardiographic methods]. Following the guide of the publications written by Weissler, Thomas, Ahmed, Perry, Buyukoztur, Rahimotola, the Authors have executed on 25 patients with results of the myocardic infarction a polygraphic examination, comparing the variations of the intervals of the systolic time (STI) with the modifications of the fraction of the ejection (Fe) and of the velocity of the circular fibres (Vcf), calculated with echocardiographic method. From the results obtained the Authors have concluded that there is a perfect correspondence among the alterated values of the isovolumetric contraction time (TCIV), preejection period (PEP), LVET/PEP, and the variations of the Fe and Vcf, and furthermore the amelioration obtained with the digitalis therapy are controlled justly with both the methods. In conclusion both the polygraphic examination and the echocardiographic examination consent a perfect control of the patients with results of the miocardic infarction if they are subject to a digitalis treatment or not, and furthermore they permit a functional valutation of the patient.", "PMID": 450275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9274", "title": "[The cholecysto-coronary syndrome observed with polygraphic and echocardiographic examinations].", "content": "The cholecysto-coronary syndrome already many times observed by various Authors at the standard electrocardiogram and after effort with not much significative results, has been studied by our group with a polygraphic and echocardiographic method. 55 subjects aged between 30 and 55 years have been examined, to each of them besides a standard electrocardiogram and after effort a polygraphic examination including a tracing of electrocardiogram, a phonocardiogram, and a carotid pulse has been made, after the STEM, TEVS, TC, TCIV, PPE and the TEVS/PPE have been calculated. The parameters obtained have been compared with the ideal values of the subject in examination, calculated according to the formula of Diamond and Killip. Moreover an echocardiographic examination has been performed in 10 of the 55 patients, both to exclude valvular anomalies and ventricle enlargements, and to calculate the velocity of the contraction of the circumferential fibres (Vcf). The examination performed pointed out an increase of the TCIV and PPE with decrease of the ratio TEVS-PPE at the polygraphic examination and moreover a decrease of the Vcf at the echocardiogram. From the whole of the results obtained we can conclude that the cholecysto-coronary reflex determines a decrease of the contribution of the O2 to the myocardium, of a limited entity, so much that it doesn't give clear signs in the standard ECG, but sufficient to establish a suffering of the sarcomer that manifests itself with an alteration of its contraction velocity.", "contents": "[The cholecysto-coronary syndrome observed with polygraphic and echocardiographic examinations]. The cholecysto-coronary syndrome already many times observed by various Authors at the standard electrocardiogram and after effort with not much significative results, has been studied by our group with a polygraphic and echocardiographic method. 55 subjects aged between 30 and 55 years have been examined, to each of them besides a standard electrocardiogram and after effort a polygraphic examination including a tracing of electrocardiogram, a phonocardiogram, and a carotid pulse has been made, after the STEM, TEVS, TC, TCIV, PPE and the TEVS/PPE have been calculated. The parameters obtained have been compared with the ideal values of the subject in examination, calculated according to the formula of Diamond and Killip. Moreover an echocardiographic examination has been performed in 10 of the 55 patients, both to exclude valvular anomalies and ventricle enlargements, and to calculate the velocity of the contraction of the circumferential fibres (Vcf). The examination performed pointed out an increase of the TCIV and PPE with decrease of the ratio TEVS-PPE at the polygraphic examination and moreover a decrease of the Vcf at the echocardiogram. From the whole of the results obtained we can conclude that the cholecysto-coronary reflex determines a decrease of the contribution of the O2 to the myocardium, of a limited entity, so much that it doesn't give clear signs in the standard ECG, but sufficient to establish a suffering of the sarcomer that manifests itself with an alteration of its contraction velocity.", "PMID": 450276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9275", "title": "[Cases of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation].", "content": "By examining carefully 516 cases of atrial fibrillation and in particular of 144 paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, the Author draws considerations on pathogenesis of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, on the most important clinical notes, on prognosis and treatment. He also suggests to define the typical paroxysmal forms which to his opinion are different from those he prefers to call \"unstable fibrillation\".", "contents": "[Cases of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation]. By examining carefully 516 cases of atrial fibrillation and in particular of 144 paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, the Author draws considerations on pathogenesis of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, on the most important clinical notes, on prognosis and treatment. He also suggests to define the typical paroxysmal forms which to his opinion are different from those he prefers to call \"unstable fibrillation\".", "PMID": 450277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9276", "title": "[A case of splenic torsion in a child].", "content": "A case of torsion of the spleen complicated by bowel occlusion occurred in a 3 1/2-yr-old boy is reviewed. Pathogenesis, symptoms and diagnostics are discussed. The rarity of the lesion in childhood is underlined together with the utility, in diagnostics, of plain films of the abdomen taken some hours one from the others.", "contents": "[A case of splenic torsion in a child]. A case of torsion of the spleen complicated by bowel occlusion occurred in a 3 1/2-yr-old boy is reviewed. Pathogenesis, symptoms and diagnostics are discussed. The rarity of the lesion in childhood is underlined together with the utility, in diagnostics, of plain films of the abdomen taken some hours one from the others.", "PMID": 450285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9277", "title": "[A catamnestic study of recovered alcoholics].", "content": "Fifty-one alcoholics, previously admitted to the hospital for medical care and treated with disulfiram, were re-examinated after 1-3 years. In thirty of them (58%) total abstinence was found; eighteen patients (35%) behaved so in spite of disulfiram withhold during the first year of self-administration. No side-effects were reported. General behaviour, mood, work, interest and familiar relationships improved. The treatment generally failed in the cases of secondary alcoholism as in marked neurosis or psychosis. The research proved the main role of family and environment in the successful cases. The treatment with disulfiram is useful but incomplete.", "contents": "[A catamnestic study of recovered alcoholics]. Fifty-one alcoholics, previously admitted to the hospital for medical care and treated with disulfiram, were re-examinated after 1-3 years. In thirty of them (58%) total abstinence was found; eighteen patients (35%) behaved so in spite of disulfiram withhold during the first year of self-administration. No side-effects were reported. General behaviour, mood, work, interest and familiar relationships improved. The treatment generally failed in the cases of secondary alcoholism as in marked neurosis or psychosis. The research proved the main role of family and environment in the successful cases. The treatment with disulfiram is useful but incomplete.", "PMID": 450290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9278", "title": "[Selective bronchial arteriography in broncho-pulmonary pathology].", "content": "104 selective bronchial arteriographies were performed in 25 patients with bronchopulmonary neoplasia, 11 with mediastinal tumours, 15 with bronchopulmonary inflammation, and 53 with haemoptysis. An assessment is made of the diagnostic value of the information obtained. It is felt that this form of examination is particularly useful in detecting the site of bleeding cases of haemoptysis, and in the provision of treatment by means of embolisation.", "contents": "[Selective bronchial arteriography in broncho-pulmonary pathology]. 104 selective bronchial arteriographies were performed in 25 patients with bronchopulmonary neoplasia, 11 with mediastinal tumours, 15 with bronchopulmonary inflammation, and 53 with haemoptysis. An assessment is made of the diagnostic value of the information obtained. It is felt that this form of examination is particularly useful in detecting the site of bleeding cases of haemoptysis, and in the provision of treatment by means of embolisation.", "PMID": 450292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9279", "title": "[Diagnostic value of urography in the study of arterial hypertension].", "content": "In spite of the widespread use of intravenous urography and its extensive employment in the study of hypertension, there is still no unanimity of views as to its application in such pathology. 147 urographies belonging to 330 hypertense patients admitted to the Bari Medical Pathology Department between 1-1-1975 and 30-9-1977 have therefore been examined so as to assess its diagnostic value. Thereafter, the percentage of abnormalities found with urography were evaluated and compared with those in the population at large. Results stress on the one hand the higher incidence of renal ptosis and poly-cystic kidneys in the hypertense, and also highlight the possibility of revealing clinically silent diseases with this technique; on the other hand, many urographies (more than 50%) were useless and it is not always possible to diagnose certainly the presence of stenosis of the renal artery owing to the presence of false positives and negatives.", "contents": "[Diagnostic value of urography in the study of arterial hypertension]. In spite of the widespread use of intravenous urography and its extensive employment in the study of hypertension, there is still no unanimity of views as to its application in such pathology. 147 urographies belonging to 330 hypertense patients admitted to the Bari Medical Pathology Department between 1-1-1975 and 30-9-1977 have therefore been examined so as to assess its diagnostic value. Thereafter, the percentage of abnormalities found with urography were evaluated and compared with those in the population at large. Results stress on the one hand the higher incidence of renal ptosis and poly-cystic kidneys in the hypertense, and also highlight the possibility of revealing clinically silent diseases with this technique; on the other hand, many urographies (more than 50%) were useless and it is not always possible to diagnose certainly the presence of stenosis of the renal artery owing to the presence of false positives and negatives.", "PMID": 450293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9280", "title": "[\"Resistent\" obesity. Clinical and metabolic aspects, cellularity of the adipose tissue and personality factors].", "content": "A study was made of 20 patients with \"resistant\" obesity selected from a series of about 4000 observed between 1970 and 1976 in an assessment of the possible existence of features distinguishing such patients from those who respond to treatment and display a satisfactory decrease in weight. The group was marked by a higher incidence of familial obesity, earlier onset of overweight, and certain personality features (evaluated by psychometric tests). Their blood sugar and insulin curves, blood cholesterol and uric acid, adipose tissue cellularity, and blood pressure (LHAP) were similar to those in the general series. Whereas their blood triglyceride values were normal, however, those in the general series were up by 21%. It is therefore felt that the clinical tests used at present do not enable the \"resistant\" obese subject to be distinguished. \"Resistant\" obesity may well constitute a distinct nosological entity, but one that is only identifiable via the patient's response to treatment.", "contents": "[\"Resistent\" obesity. Clinical and metabolic aspects, cellularity of the adipose tissue and personality factors]. A study was made of 20 patients with \"resistant\" obesity selected from a series of about 4000 observed between 1970 and 1976 in an assessment of the possible existence of features distinguishing such patients from those who respond to treatment and display a satisfactory decrease in weight. The group was marked by a higher incidence of familial obesity, earlier onset of overweight, and certain personality features (evaluated by psychometric tests). Their blood sugar and insulin curves, blood cholesterol and uric acid, adipose tissue cellularity, and blood pressure (LHAP) were similar to those in the general series. Whereas their blood triglyceride values were normal, however, those in the general series were up by 21%. It is therefore felt that the clinical tests used at present do not enable the \"resistant\" obese subject to be distinguished. \"Resistant\" obesity may well constitute a distinct nosological entity, but one that is only identifiable via the patient's response to treatment.", "PMID": 450294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9281", "title": "[Changes in acid-base equilibrium and water-electrolyte balance in hepatic cirrhosis].", "content": "The acid-base and hydroelectrolyte balance were evaluated in 116 patients with cirrhosis of the liver divided (a posteriori) into subjects without ascites, those with tractable ascites, and those with intractable ascites. Alterations were much earlier and more frequent in the pre-ascitic stage. A fall in arterial blood O2 tension also proved a poor prognostic factor. The water load test and 24-hr determination of natriuria best reflected the clinical picture and should thus act as pointers to the correct planning of treatment.", "contents": "[Changes in acid-base equilibrium and water-electrolyte balance in hepatic cirrhosis]. The acid-base and hydroelectrolyte balance were evaluated in 116 patients with cirrhosis of the liver divided (a posteriori) into subjects without ascites, those with tractable ascites, and those with intractable ascites. Alterations were much earlier and more frequent in the pre-ascitic stage. A fall in arterial blood O2 tension also proved a poor prognostic factor. The water load test and 24-hr determination of natriuria best reflected the clinical picture and should thus act as pointers to the correct planning of treatment.", "PMID": 450295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9282", "title": "[Levodopa treatment of a case of torsion spasm with athetosis].", "content": "The result about Levodopa treatment in torsion dystonia and athetosis are quite contradictory. We report an interesting case, significant for the results that we obtained in a long treatment period. A girl was suffering from age of 8 years of torsion dystonia associated with athetosis. We made our first clinical examination when 12 years old: she was not able to stand-up and to walking, neither was she able to be sitting in a chair without arms. In two months of treatment with Levodopa 3.000 mg. by day, the symptoms completely disappeared. During the first two years of treatment, at every effort to decrease the therapy we observed an important increase of symptoms. Successively it was possible to decrease the therapy and now, after 8 years of treatment, with a minimal dose, the girl doesn't show any symptoms, so that she can manage a normal relative life. Probably these good results depend on the fact that was a sporadic recessive form of torsion dystonia case.", "contents": "[Levodopa treatment of a case of torsion spasm with athetosis]. The result about Levodopa treatment in torsion dystonia and athetosis are quite contradictory. We report an interesting case, significant for the results that we obtained in a long treatment period. A girl was suffering from age of 8 years of torsion dystonia associated with athetosis. We made our first clinical examination when 12 years old: she was not able to stand-up and to walking, neither was she able to be sitting in a chair without arms. In two months of treatment with Levodopa 3.000 mg. by day, the symptoms completely disappeared. During the first two years of treatment, at every effort to decrease the therapy we observed an important increase of symptoms. Successively it was possible to decrease the therapy and now, after 8 years of treatment, with a minimal dose, the girl doesn't show any symptoms, so that she can manage a normal relative life. Probably these good results depend on the fact that was a sporadic recessive form of torsion dystonia case.", "PMID": 450296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9283", "title": "[Changes in basal gastric acid secretion in humans after intravenous administration of glucose].", "content": "We have inquired into the variation of the secretion acid gastric in a man after a rapid infusion of an hipertonic solution of glucose (g 0,33/Kg of weight), comparing it with that induced by the caffeinic stimulant. From this comparison we have noticed a sharp secretory answer in the first 30' whether out of the HCl free or the total acidity that tends to become exhausted progressively. We want to put forward the hypothesis of a probable interference in a stimulating manner of the high glycemia over the production of entero-hormones.", "contents": "[Changes in basal gastric acid secretion in humans after intravenous administration of glucose]. We have inquired into the variation of the secretion acid gastric in a man after a rapid infusion of an hipertonic solution of glucose (g 0,33/Kg of weight), comparing it with that induced by the caffeinic stimulant. From this comparison we have noticed a sharp secretory answer in the first 30' whether out of the HCl free or the total acidity that tends to become exhausted progressively. We want to put forward the hypothesis of a probable interference in a stimulating manner of the high glycemia over the production of entero-hormones.", "PMID": 450308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9284", "title": "[History and socio-political motivations of acupuncture in China and in Europe].", "content": "In this paper is described the story of acupuncture in China and in Europe. Besides storical points of view, are discussed the social-political reasons that raised acupuncture to a high level in people Republic of China, and the practical reasons of this therapy. Besides are discussed summarily the indications and scientific bases of this methodology.", "contents": "[History and socio-political motivations of acupuncture in China and in Europe]. In this paper is described the story of acupuncture in China and in Europe. Besides storical points of view, are discussed the social-political reasons that raised acupuncture to a high level in people Republic of China, and the practical reasons of this therapy. Besides are discussed summarily the indications and scientific bases of this methodology.", "PMID": 450309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9285", "title": "[Acupuncture in the treatment of pain in psychiatry and in psychosomatic medicine].", "content": "The Authors examine the possibility of using acupuncture in psicogenic pain. Particular attention is given to different problems: 1) a correct use of acupuncture; 2) establish a relation doctor-patient not impersonal or objectival; 3) understanding of the meaning of the simptoms and of the psychological reasons.", "contents": "[Acupuncture in the treatment of pain in psychiatry and in psychosomatic medicine]. The Authors examine the possibility of using acupuncture in psicogenic pain. Particular attention is given to different problems: 1) a correct use of acupuncture; 2) establish a relation doctor-patient not impersonal or objectival; 3) understanding of the meaning of the simptoms and of the psychological reasons.", "PMID": 450311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9286", "title": "[Acupuncture in ischemic pain of the extremities].", "content": "In this paper is put in evidence the efficacy of reflexotherapy (acupuncture) in the treatment of ischemic pain. The vasodilatation obtained brings back to a normal aerobic glicolisis in the ischemic tissues, especially in the muscles and consequentially a total or partial analgesic effect.", "contents": "[Acupuncture in ischemic pain of the extremities]. In this paper is put in evidence the efficacy of reflexotherapy (acupuncture) in the treatment of ischemic pain. The vasodilatation obtained brings back to a normal aerobic glicolisis in the ischemic tissues, especially in the muscles and consequentially a total or partial analgesic effect.", "PMID": 450312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9287", "title": "[Acupuncture analgesia in instrumental examinations of the uterus].", "content": "The Authors put in choise the acupunctural-analgesia in front of general anaesthesia in uterus's critical instrumental inspections. Following the biomolecular data and the obtained results without any anaesthesiologic risk, the Author presents the used methods and, also if the number of patients is low, the Author advises the acupunctural method in above-mentioned disease.", "contents": "[Acupuncture analgesia in instrumental examinations of the uterus]. The Authors put in choise the acupunctural-analgesia in front of general anaesthesia in uterus's critical instrumental inspections. Following the biomolecular data and the obtained results without any anaesthesiologic risk, the Author presents the used methods and, also if the number of patients is low, the Author advises the acupunctural method in above-mentioned disease.", "PMID": 450313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9288", "title": "[Circulatory disorders and acupuncture].", "content": "The present study was designed to examine whether acupuncture is useful in the treatment of some disorders of the vascular system as the thromboangiitis obliterans of the extremities, the Raynaud's disease and in the therapy of ulcers by venous stasis. From the data presented it appears that acupuncture is effective in releasing the arterial spasm and especially in increasing the circulation in collateral vessels. In order to prove the efficiency of acupuncture in the above disorders, the response to acupuncture was compared with that obtained by a pharmacological treatment with lumbar paravertebral block.", "contents": "[Circulatory disorders and acupuncture]. The present study was designed to examine whether acupuncture is useful in the treatment of some disorders of the vascular system as the thromboangiitis obliterans of the extremities, the Raynaud's disease and in the therapy of ulcers by venous stasis. From the data presented it appears that acupuncture is effective in releasing the arterial spasm and especially in increasing the circulation in collateral vessels. In order to prove the efficiency of acupuncture in the above disorders, the response to acupuncture was compared with that obtained by a pharmacological treatment with lumbar paravertebral block.", "PMID": 450314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9289", "title": "Vaginal adenosis in stillborns and neonates exposed to diethylstilbestrol and steroidal estrogens and progestins.", "content": "A histologic study was conducted of sagittal sections of the genital tracts of 281 autopsied female stillborns and neonates. The prevalence of vaginal adenosis among 43 offspring exposed in utero to diethylstilbestrol (DES) was 70%, a frequency 18 times greater than the 4% prevalence among 159 unexposed offspring. The relationship of the prevalence of vaginal adenosis to the gestational age at initial exposure was highly significant: 81% of those first exposed during the period of vaginogenesis had adenosis, whereas none exposed after 21 weeks' gestation had adenosis (P1 = 1 X 10(-4)). The relationship of the prevalence of vaginal adenosis to the total dose of DES prior to 22 weeks' gestation also was significant (P1 = 0.02), and this relationship was independent of gestational age at first exposure (P1 =0.01). In contrast, the prevalence of adenosis among 23 offspring exposed to steroidal estrogens and progestins was about the same as that among the unexposed offspring. Vaginal adenosis was unrelated to the complications of pregnancy for which the hormones were given, the calendar year of birth, and the gestational age at delivery.", "contents": "Vaginal adenosis in stillborns and neonates exposed to diethylstilbestrol and steroidal estrogens and progestins. A histologic study was conducted of sagittal sections of the genital tracts of 281 autopsied female stillborns and neonates. The prevalence of vaginal adenosis among 43 offspring exposed in utero to diethylstilbestrol (DES) was 70%, a frequency 18 times greater than the 4% prevalence among 159 unexposed offspring. The relationship of the prevalence of vaginal adenosis to the gestational age at initial exposure was highly significant: 81% of those first exposed during the period of vaginogenesis had adenosis, whereas none exposed after 21 weeks' gestation had adenosis (P1 = 1 X 10(-4)). The relationship of the prevalence of vaginal adenosis to the total dose of DES prior to 22 weeks' gestation also was significant (P1 = 0.02), and this relationship was independent of gestational age at first exposure (P1 =0.01). In contrast, the prevalence of adenosis among 23 offspring exposed to steroidal estrogens and progestins was about the same as that among the unexposed offspring. Vaginal adenosis was unrelated to the complications of pregnancy for which the hormones were given, the calendar year of birth, and the gestational age at delivery.", "PMID": 450333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9290", "title": "Evaluation of colposcopic accuracy without endocervical curettage.", "content": "A study was undertaken to evaluate the accuracy of colposcopic examination when performed without the use of endocervical curettage. It included 763 cases of suspected cervical-vaginal pathology. An additional evaluation of colposcopic accuracy was made for special-case categories of 1) stromal invasion, 2) pregnancy, 3) menopause, and 4) diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure. Colposcopic accuracy was determined by cytologic and histologic material obtained either at the initial colposcopic evaluation or during follow-up surgery. With the literature as a standard for accuracy, it was concluded that the omission of endocervical curettage from the colposcopic examination did not reduce accuracy. In addition, the diagnostic conization rate was lower than in most reported series. Finally, the rate of missed invasive lesions was not increased by the omission of endocervical curettage.", "contents": "Evaluation of colposcopic accuracy without endocervical curettage. A study was undertaken to evaluate the accuracy of colposcopic examination when performed without the use of endocervical curettage. It included 763 cases of suspected cervical-vaginal pathology. An additional evaluation of colposcopic accuracy was made for special-case categories of 1) stromal invasion, 2) pregnancy, 3) menopause, and 4) diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure. Colposcopic accuracy was determined by cytologic and histologic material obtained either at the initial colposcopic evaluation or during follow-up surgery. With the literature as a standard for accuracy, it was concluded that the omission of endocervical curettage from the colposcopic examination did not reduce accuracy. In addition, the diagnostic conization rate was lower than in most reported series. Finally, the rate of missed invasive lesions was not increased by the omission of endocervical curettage.", "PMID": 450334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9291", "title": "Intentional ureteral ligation in advanced pelvic malignant disease.", "content": "It is now widely accepted that debulking operative resections can provide effective palliation for some patients with advanced pelvic malignancy, particularly with those malignancies originating in the ovary. Some of these radical operations require the resection of long segments of the ureter and portions of the bladder. Although there is a variety of techniques that can be used in this situation to restore the continuity of the urinary tract, in some instances a simple ureteral ligation may represent the best method of managing the \"short ureter.\" In our experience with 23 patients who underwent intentional ureteral ligation, the procedure was found to be safe, expeditious, and beneficial in managing some of the complex problems associated with advanced pelvic malignant disease.", "contents": "Intentional ureteral ligation in advanced pelvic malignant disease. It is now widely accepted that debulking operative resections can provide effective palliation for some patients with advanced pelvic malignancy, particularly with those malignancies originating in the ovary. Some of these radical operations require the resection of long segments of the ureter and portions of the bladder. Although there is a variety of techniques that can be used in this situation to restore the continuity of the urinary tract, in some instances a simple ureteral ligation may represent the best method of managing the \"short ureter.\" In our experience with 23 patients who underwent intentional ureteral ligation, the procedure was found to be safe, expeditious, and beneficial in managing some of the complex problems associated with advanced pelvic malignant disease.", "PMID": 450335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9292", "title": "Smooth muscle tumors of the vagina.", "content": "The clinical and pathologic features of 60 smooth muscle tumors of the vagina were studied to determine the pathologic characteristics which best relate to clinical behavior and to define criteria for the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. Cellular atypism, mitotic activity, and tumor size and contour were examined, and their relationship to recurrence was evaluated. Only 5 neoplasms recurred, and these were all greater than or equal to 3 cm, with greater than or equal to 5 mitotic figures per 10 high-power fields (HPF) and various degrees of atypia. The only patient whose tumor had an infiltrating margin died with metastatic tumor in the lungs. With the exception of this 1 neoplasm, all other smooth muscle tumors of the vagina were either benign or only locally aggressive. Local excision is the treatment of choice when the tumor is well circumscribed. A neoplasm with moderate to marked atypism and greater than or equal to 5 mitotic figures per 10 HPF merits the designation of leiomyosarcoma.", "contents": "Smooth muscle tumors of the vagina. The clinical and pathologic features of 60 smooth muscle tumors of the vagina were studied to determine the pathologic characteristics which best relate to clinical behavior and to define criteria for the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. Cellular atypism, mitotic activity, and tumor size and contour were examined, and their relationship to recurrence was evaluated. Only 5 neoplasms recurred, and these were all greater than or equal to 3 cm, with greater than or equal to 5 mitotic figures per 10 high-power fields (HPF) and various degrees of atypia. The only patient whose tumor had an infiltrating margin died with metastatic tumor in the lungs. With the exception of this 1 neoplasm, all other smooth muscle tumors of the vagina were either benign or only locally aggressive. Local excision is the treatment of choice when the tumor is well circumscribed. A neoplasm with moderate to marked atypism and greater than or equal to 5 mitotic figures per 10 HPF merits the designation of leiomyosarcoma.", "PMID": 450336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9293", "title": "The value of sonography in suspected ectopic pregnancy.", "content": "Of 356 women undergoing sonography to diagnose or rule out an ectopic gestation, data sufficient to assign a final diagnosis were available on 260 of them. Ectopic gestation was diagnosed in 25 cases in this group and intrauterine pregnancy in 99, while the remaining 136 patients were found not to be pregnant. During sonography, ectopic gestations were suspected or diagnosed in 27 instances: In 17 cases this was in agreement with the final diagnosis, but neither an intrauterine nor an extrauterine gestation existed in 10 cases, although neoplastic or inflammatory masses were present. Of the 25 patients with the final diagnosis \"ectopic pregnancy,\" this was not detected with sonography in 8 instances. Intrauterine pregnancies were diagnosed by sonar in 94 of the 99 cases. Although reliable sonar identification of ectopic gestation is not always possible, sonography is helpful in diagnosing intrauterine pregnancy so that surgical intervention can be avoided.", "contents": "The value of sonography in suspected ectopic pregnancy. Of 356 women undergoing sonography to diagnose or rule out an ectopic gestation, data sufficient to assign a final diagnosis were available on 260 of them. Ectopic gestation was diagnosed in 25 cases in this group and intrauterine pregnancy in 99, while the remaining 136 patients were found not to be pregnant. During sonography, ectopic gestations were suspected or diagnosed in 27 instances: In 17 cases this was in agreement with the final diagnosis, but neither an intrauterine nor an extrauterine gestation existed in 10 cases, although neoplastic or inflammatory masses were present. Of the 25 patients with the final diagnosis \"ectopic pregnancy,\" this was not detected with sonography in 8 instances. Intrauterine pregnancies were diagnosed by sonar in 94 of the 99 cases. Although reliable sonar identification of ectopic gestation is not always possible, sonography is helpful in diagnosing intrauterine pregnancy so that surgical intervention can be avoided.", "PMID": 450337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9294", "title": "Conservative surgery for tubal pregnancy.", "content": "Twenty-four conservative surgical procedures for unruptured tubal pregnancies were performed on 23 patients with poor past obstetric performance. All cases were diagnosed preoperatively by laparoscopy. Salpingotomy was performed in 20 cases and fimbrial expression of the ectopic pregnancy was performed in 4 cases. In the group of conservatively treated patients there were 15 live births in 11 women and 28 intrauterine pregnancies in 14 women. No ectopic pregnancies occurred in the operated tube. Early diagnosis and conservative surgical treatment of unruptured tubal pregnancy is appropriate for patients with poor reproductive histories.", "contents": "Conservative surgery for tubal pregnancy. Twenty-four conservative surgical procedures for unruptured tubal pregnancies were performed on 23 patients with poor past obstetric performance. All cases were diagnosed preoperatively by laparoscopy. Salpingotomy was performed in 20 cases and fimbrial expression of the ectopic pregnancy was performed in 4 cases. In the group of conservatively treated patients there were 15 live births in 11 women and 28 intrauterine pregnancies in 14 women. No ectopic pregnancies occurred in the operated tube. Early diagnosis and conservative surgical treatment of unruptured tubal pregnancy is appropriate for patients with poor reproductive histories.", "PMID": 450338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9295", "title": "External cephalic version in breech presentation under tocolysis.", "content": "A prospective trial is presented of the benefits and risks of external cephalic version in breech presentation. From January through October 1977, attempts at external version were performed in 53 cases with a success rate of 70%. The version technique is described. Mode of delivery after the maneuver in mothers with breech presentation who for different reasons were not included in the series is reported as well. Both the incidence of breech presentation and the incidence of cesarean section in breech presentation were reduced during the period of study. No serious complications in association with attempts at external version were observed.", "contents": "External cephalic version in breech presentation under tocolysis. A prospective trial is presented of the benefits and risks of external cephalic version in breech presentation. From January through October 1977, attempts at external version were performed in 53 cases with a success rate of 70%. The version technique is described. Mode of delivery after the maneuver in mothers with breech presentation who for different reasons were not included in the series is reported as well. Both the incidence of breech presentation and the incidence of cesarean section in breech presentation were reduced during the period of study. No serious complications in association with attempts at external version were observed.", "PMID": 450339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9296", "title": "Fetal heart rate patterns and fetal distress in fetuses with congenital anomalies.", "content": "Over a 3-year period at the Long Beach Women's Hospital, where electronic FHR (fetal heart rate) monitoring was routine, there were 8622 live births, including 41 infants born with major congenital malformations. The neonatal death rate in these malformed infants was 44%; 17 were delivered by cesarean section, 11 of which were performed because of fetal distress. There were no characteristic FHR patterns that would specifically identify major congenital malformations. There was a significantly increased incidence of prematurity, breech presentation, and cesarean section delivery in the congenital malformation group as compared to the overall population delivering at the Women's Hospital. The clinical implications of these observations are discussed.", "contents": "Fetal heart rate patterns and fetal distress in fetuses with congenital anomalies. Over a 3-year period at the Long Beach Women's Hospital, where electronic FHR (fetal heart rate) monitoring was routine, there were 8622 live births, including 41 infants born with major congenital malformations. The neonatal death rate in these malformed infants was 44%; 17 were delivered by cesarean section, 11 of which were performed because of fetal distress. There were no characteristic FHR patterns that would specifically identify major congenital malformations. There was a significantly increased incidence of prematurity, breech presentation, and cesarean section delivery in the congenital malformation group as compared to the overall population delivering at the Women's Hospital. The clinical implications of these observations are discussed.", "PMID": 450340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9297", "title": "Morbidity and mortality of advanced gestational age: post-term or postmature.", "content": "A 6-year retrospective review of 53 post-term infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) was undertaken to determine whether morbidity and mortality related to uteroplacental insufficiency were confined to infants with the postmaturity syndrome. Objective identification of infants with significant intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) was done using the ponderal index (PI). All neonatal deaths occurred in large, appropriately grown infants and were associated with anoxic encephalopathy. Morbidity was equally distributed between normally grown and malnourished infants. Developmental outcome was similar in the 2 groups of infants. Neonatal complications and sequelae occurred in the absence of recognizable fetal malnutrition. Therefore, the post-term infant should be considered at risk, even if normally grown.", "contents": "Morbidity and mortality of advanced gestational age: post-term or postmature. A 6-year retrospective review of 53 post-term infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) was undertaken to determine whether morbidity and mortality related to uteroplacental insufficiency were confined to infants with the postmaturity syndrome. Objective identification of infants with significant intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) was done using the ponderal index (PI). All neonatal deaths occurred in large, appropriately grown infants and were associated with anoxic encephalopathy. Morbidity was equally distributed between normally grown and malnourished infants. Developmental outcome was similar in the 2 groups of infants. Neonatal complications and sequelae occurred in the absence of recognizable fetal malnutrition. Therefore, the post-term infant should be considered at risk, even if normally grown.", "PMID": 450341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9298", "title": "Antenatal versus neonatal transport to a regional perinatal center: a comparison between matched pairs.", "content": "Fifty randomly selected newborn infants of maternal transports admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Long Beach Memorial Hospital in 1976 and 1977 were matched by birth weight, gestational age, and outcome with 50 transported neonates. The factors compared included type of delivery, 5-minute Apgar score, length of hospital stay, distance of transport, admitting diagnosis, need for assisted ventilation, and length of time on assisted ventilation. Only 2 factors were found to be statistically different between the 2 groups. There was an increased cesarean section rate in transport mothers but a lower morbidity among preterm neonates born to maternal transports.", "contents": "Antenatal versus neonatal transport to a regional perinatal center: a comparison between matched pairs. Fifty randomly selected newborn infants of maternal transports admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Long Beach Memorial Hospital in 1976 and 1977 were matched by birth weight, gestational age, and outcome with 50 transported neonates. The factors compared included type of delivery, 5-minute Apgar score, length of hospital stay, distance of transport, admitting diagnosis, need for assisted ventilation, and length of time on assisted ventilation. Only 2 factors were found to be statistically different between the 2 groups. There was an increased cesarean section rate in transport mothers but a lower morbidity among preterm neonates born to maternal transports.", "PMID": 450342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9299", "title": "The changing perinatal and maternal outcome in chorioamnionitis.", "content": "Chorioamnionitis is difficult to detect clinically, but its recognition in those at risk is essential. A retrospective study of 140 patients from among 26,129 deliveries was conducted over a 2-year period. The findings suggest that in modern obstetric practice, both perinatal and maternal complications associated with chorioamnionitis (particularly sepsis) are infrequent problems. Four neonatal deaths occurred but no infants died of sepsis. There were no maternal deaths, but 38 patients developed postpartum infections. Cesarean section did not appear to improve either perinatal or maternal outcome. With the use of appropriate modern antibiotics, extraperitoneal cesarean section and cesarean hysterectomy are probably no longer indicated. Not all neonates born out of a microbiologically contaminated intrauterine environment required antibiotic therapy, however, and individualization is recommended.", "contents": "The changing perinatal and maternal outcome in chorioamnionitis. Chorioamnionitis is difficult to detect clinically, but its recognition in those at risk is essential. A retrospective study of 140 patients from among 26,129 deliveries was conducted over a 2-year period. The findings suggest that in modern obstetric practice, both perinatal and maternal complications associated with chorioamnionitis (particularly sepsis) are infrequent problems. Four neonatal deaths occurred but no infants died of sepsis. There were no maternal deaths, but 38 patients developed postpartum infections. Cesarean section did not appear to improve either perinatal or maternal outcome. With the use of appropriate modern antibiotics, extraperitoneal cesarean section and cesarean hysterectomy are probably no longer indicated. Not all neonates born out of a microbiologically contaminated intrauterine environment required antibiotic therapy, however, and individualization is recommended.", "PMID": 450343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9300", "title": "The value of the Partogramme in the management of labor.", "content": "The Partogramme was evaluated at the University Center for Health Science or Centre Universitaire des Sciences de la Sant\u00e9 (CUSS) in Yaounde, Cameroon, Africa. A retrospective study of 686 patients and a prospective study of 1045 patients were conducted. With the institution of this program, the perinatal mortality decreased by 10 deaths/1000 births. The use of the \"alert\" and \"action\" lines offered accurate and reliable guidelines for early detection of abnormal labor. Two-thirds of the morbidity and mortality and 72% of deliveries with medical or surgical interference occurred in the clinical group where the labor curve crossed the action line. Regional values for functional divisions of labor are provided. The advantages of the Partogramme are discussed.", "contents": "The value of the Partogramme in the management of labor. The Partogramme was evaluated at the University Center for Health Science or Centre Universitaire des Sciences de la Sant\u00e9 (CUSS) in Yaounde, Cameroon, Africa. A retrospective study of 686 patients and a prospective study of 1045 patients were conducted. With the institution of this program, the perinatal mortality decreased by 10 deaths/1000 births. The use of the \"alert\" and \"action\" lines offered accurate and reliable guidelines for early detection of abnormal labor. Two-thirds of the morbidity and mortality and 72% of deliveries with medical or surgical interference occurred in the clinical group where the labor curve crossed the action line. Regional values for functional divisions of labor are provided. The advantages of the Partogramme are discussed.", "PMID": 450344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9301", "title": "The physiologic hyperparathyroidism of pregnancy. Is it primary or secondary?", "content": "Controversy exists over whether the increase in maternal serum parathyroid hormone levels observed during the second half of pregnancy is due to autonomous parathyroid function or is secondary to changes in maternal serum ionized calcium levels. In order to study this problem further, 9 subjects were followed serially throughout normal pregnancy. Total serum calcium, ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin, and albumin levels were measured monthly. Six of these subjects had the studies repeated 6 weeks postpartum. Serum ionized calcium levels were found to decrease from 3.81 +/- 0.12 mg/dl to 3.63 +/- 0.18 mg/dl between 21 and 25 weeks' gestation. This decrease was significant at P less than 0.01. The ionized calcium remained in this lower range until term. A significant return to 3.77 +/- 0.1 mg/dl was observed 6 weeks postpartum. Serum PTH levels showed a significant rise after 21 weeks' gestation (P less than 0.05). No serial change in serum calcitonin was observed during pregnancy, although the mean level of the group was significantly higher than in nonpregnant controls (P less than 0.01). The increase in maternal serum PTH observed during pregnancy appears to be due in part to a decrease in maternal serum ionized calcium.", "contents": "The physiologic hyperparathyroidism of pregnancy. Is it primary or secondary? Controversy exists over whether the increase in maternal serum parathyroid hormone levels observed during the second half of pregnancy is due to autonomous parathyroid function or is secondary to changes in maternal serum ionized calcium levels. In order to study this problem further, 9 subjects were followed serially throughout normal pregnancy. Total serum calcium, ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin, and albumin levels were measured monthly. Six of these subjects had the studies repeated 6 weeks postpartum. Serum ionized calcium levels were found to decrease from 3.81 +/- 0.12 mg/dl to 3.63 +/- 0.18 mg/dl between 21 and 25 weeks' gestation. This decrease was significant at P less than 0.01. The ionized calcium remained in this lower range until term. A significant return to 3.77 +/- 0.1 mg/dl was observed 6 weeks postpartum. Serum PTH levels showed a significant rise after 21 weeks' gestation (P less than 0.05). No serial change in serum calcitonin was observed during pregnancy, although the mean level of the group was significantly higher than in nonpregnant controls (P less than 0.01). The increase in maternal serum PTH observed during pregnancy appears to be due in part to a decrease in maternal serum ionized calcium.", "PMID": 450345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9302", "title": "Maternal hypoxemia and fetal breathing movements.", "content": "Fetal breathing movements (FBM) were observed daily using a real-time B-mode ultrasound method in a patient with sickle cell anemia in crisis. Observations were made on 2 occasions in the presence of maternal hypoxemia (PO2 less than or equal to 40 mmHg), and FBM were noted to be absent. Conversely, when maternal PO2 was 60 mmHg or greater, FBM were present 23--80% of the time. The FBM were reduced or absent within 90 minutes of maternal Demerol injection. These observations suggest that the human fetal response to hypoxemia may be similar to that observed under expermental conditions in the animal fetus.", "contents": "Maternal hypoxemia and fetal breathing movements. Fetal breathing movements (FBM) were observed daily using a real-time B-mode ultrasound method in a patient with sickle cell anemia in crisis. Observations were made on 2 occasions in the presence of maternal hypoxemia (PO2 less than or equal to 40 mmHg), and FBM were noted to be absent. Conversely, when maternal PO2 was 60 mmHg or greater, FBM were present 23--80% of the time. The FBM were reduced or absent within 90 minutes of maternal Demerol injection. These observations suggest that the human fetal response to hypoxemia may be similar to that observed under expermental conditions in the animal fetus.", "PMID": 450346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9303", "title": "Diffuse vaginal adenosis associated with imperforate hymen.", "content": "A case of imperforate hymen associated with adenosis of the proximal surface of the obstructing membrane and of the vaginal wall is reported. The histogenesis of vaginal adenosis coexisting with congenital obstructive lesions is discussed, and the importance of careful follow-up of the patients with this type of anomaly is emphasized.", "contents": "Diffuse vaginal adenosis associated with imperforate hymen. A case of imperforate hymen associated with adenosis of the proximal surface of the obstructing membrane and of the vaginal wall is reported. The histogenesis of vaginal adenosis coexisting with congenital obstructive lesions is discussed, and the importance of careful follow-up of the patients with this type of anomaly is emphasized.", "PMID": 450347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9304", "title": "Clomiphene citrate therapy and associated ovarian endometrial cysts.", "content": "Four cases are presented of ovarian endometrial cyst formation associated with the use of clomiphene citrate therapy for oligo-ovulation and infertility. All required surgical intervention. Clomiphene citrate should be used with caution in patients with pelvic endometriosis and ovulatory dysfunction.", "contents": "Clomiphene citrate therapy and associated ovarian endometrial cysts. Four cases are presented of ovarian endometrial cyst formation associated with the use of clomiphene citrate therapy for oligo-ovulation and infertility. All required surgical intervention. Clomiphene citrate should be used with caution in patients with pelvic endometriosis and ovulatory dysfunction.", "PMID": 450348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9305", "title": "Experience with teenage pregnancy.", "content": "A retrospective study of 4224 deliveries to women age 19 or younger was conducted. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of teenage pregnancy in an urban, predominantly nonwhite, socioeconomically depressed population. A total of 10,011 infants were delivered during the study period, with 42% (4224) of the infants born to teenagers. It is concluded that teenage pregnancy among the urban, nonwhite poor is characterized by poor outcome, primarily as a reflection of the high-risk obstetric population from which it derives, and only secondarily due to any risk inherent to maternal age. In addition, a striking characteristic of pregnancy in this age group is its tendency to repeat itself. Teenage pregnancy is a sociologic problem with medical consequences, and medical programs as they presently exist are incapable of bringing about the ultimate solution--prevention.", "contents": "Experience with teenage pregnancy. A retrospective study of 4224 deliveries to women age 19 or younger was conducted. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of teenage pregnancy in an urban, predominantly nonwhite, socioeconomically depressed population. A total of 10,011 infants were delivered during the study period, with 42% (4224) of the infants born to teenagers. It is concluded that teenage pregnancy among the urban, nonwhite poor is characterized by poor outcome, primarily as a reflection of the high-risk obstetric population from which it derives, and only secondarily due to any risk inherent to maternal age. In addition, a striking characteristic of pregnancy in this age group is its tendency to repeat itself. Teenage pregnancy is a sociologic problem with medical consequences, and medical programs as they presently exist are incapable of bringing about the ultimate solution--prevention.", "PMID": 450351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9306", "title": "Women's attitudes toward gynecologic practices.", "content": "Seventy-five female students and faculty members at a community college completed a questionnaire exploring their attitudes toward gynecologic procedures, their physicians, and the discussion of sexual concerns. Eighty-five percent reported negative feelings toward the pelvic examination (anxiety, vulnerability-humiliation, and dehumanization). Forty-one percent expressed negative feelings toward their physician's behavior, while 43% reported positive feelings. Seventy-two percent would not discuss sexual concerns with their physicians. A large percentage of recommendations (87%) addressed themselves to the doctor-patient relationship rather than to procedural matters (29%). These findings recommend serious self-scrutiny and behavior change on the part of physicians. Specific recommendations to alleviate the current situation are provided by the authors, and suggestions are made for incorporating the findings into educational environments.", "contents": "Women's attitudes toward gynecologic practices. Seventy-five female students and faculty members at a community college completed a questionnaire exploring their attitudes toward gynecologic procedures, their physicians, and the discussion of sexual concerns. Eighty-five percent reported negative feelings toward the pelvic examination (anxiety, vulnerability-humiliation, and dehumanization). Forty-one percent expressed negative feelings toward their physician's behavior, while 43% reported positive feelings. Seventy-two percent would not discuss sexual concerns with their physicians. A large percentage of recommendations (87%) addressed themselves to the doctor-patient relationship rather than to procedural matters (29%). These findings recommend serious self-scrutiny and behavior change on the part of physicians. Specific recommendations to alleviate the current situation are provided by the authors, and suggestions are made for incorporating the findings into educational environments.", "PMID": 450352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9307", "title": "A dynamic graph for documentation of gestational age.", "content": "A graphic format is presented for the display and storage of data relating to gestational age. The graph permits rapid retrieval and synthesis of often confusion information and is thereby useful in the management of complicated pregnancies.", "contents": "A dynamic graph for documentation of gestational age. A graphic format is presented for the display and storage of data relating to gestational age. The graph permits rapid retrieval and synthesis of often confusion information and is thereby useful in the management of complicated pregnancies.", "PMID": 450353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9308", "title": "Midtrimester placenta previa: normal or pathologic finding.", "content": "During the years 1974-1977 ultrasonic placentography demonstrated midtrimester placenta previa (MTPP) in 123 women. The procedure was performed because of vaginal bleeding in 65 cases and prior to amniocentesis in 58 asymptomatic cases. Eighty-eight patients were found to have grade I placenta previa (PP), 12 to have grade II, 14 to have grade III, and 9 patients to have grade IV PP. These different variants of PP were correlated with the ultimate outcome of these pregnancies: Bleeding due to PP or PP at term were reasons for cesarean section in 4 cases of grade I PP, in 2 cases of grade II, in 7 cases of grade III, and in 7 out of 9 cases of grade IV PP. Among those patients who had grades III and IV PP, 13 out of 23 had premature or immature deliveries. These results suggest that finding of MTPP, especially symptomatic MTPP, should alert the physician to the clinical significance of PP later in pregnancy.", "contents": "Midtrimester placenta previa: normal or pathologic finding. During the years 1974-1977 ultrasonic placentography demonstrated midtrimester placenta previa (MTPP) in 123 women. The procedure was performed because of vaginal bleeding in 65 cases and prior to amniocentesis in 58 asymptomatic cases. Eighty-eight patients were found to have grade I placenta previa (PP), 12 to have grade II, 14 to have grade III, and 9 patients to have grade IV PP. These different variants of PP were correlated with the ultimate outcome of these pregnancies: Bleeding due to PP or PP at term were reasons for cesarean section in 4 cases of grade I PP, in 2 cases of grade II, in 7 cases of grade III, and in 7 out of 9 cases of grade IV PP. Among those patients who had grades III and IV PP, 13 out of 23 had premature or immature deliveries. These results suggest that finding of MTPP, especially symptomatic MTPP, should alert the physician to the clinical significance of PP later in pregnancy.", "PMID": 450354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9309", "title": "Carcinoma of the vulva arising in condylomata acuminata.", "content": "A case of carcinoma of the vulva arising in condylomata acuminata is presented. The patient was much younger than is classically reported for carcinoma of the vulva. The vulvar growth was first noted during pregnancy, and it continued to grow and enlarge following delivery. Malignancy appeared to develop after a relatively short time. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish vulvar condylomata acuminata from carcinoma from clinical evidence alone. It is, therefore, mandatory in doubtful cases to take multiple biopsies from the lesion before treatment is instituted.", "contents": "Carcinoma of the vulva arising in condylomata acuminata. A case of carcinoma of the vulva arising in condylomata acuminata is presented. The patient was much younger than is classically reported for carcinoma of the vulva. The vulvar growth was first noted during pregnancy, and it continued to grow and enlarge following delivery. Malignancy appeared to develop after a relatively short time. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish vulvar condylomata acuminata from carcinoma from clinical evidence alone. It is, therefore, mandatory in doubtful cases to take multiple biopsies from the lesion before treatment is instituted.", "PMID": 450355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9310", "title": "A maternal death associated with prostaglandin E2.", "content": "A maternal death following prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) administration is reported. It is suggested that prostaglandin may not be safer than other methods of uterine evacuation for late abortion and fetal death.", "contents": "A maternal death associated with prostaglandin E2. A maternal death following prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) administration is reported. It is suggested that prostaglandin may not be safer than other methods of uterine evacuation for late abortion and fetal death.", "PMID": 450356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9311", "title": "Congenital atresia of the cervix.", "content": "A case of rare m\u00fcllerian anomaly, congenital atresia of the cervix in a functional bicornuate uterus, is presented together with a review of the literature in English. The patient in this case took an active role in the decision regarding the nature of the surgical treatment she was to undergo. It is suggested that total hystrectomy with preservation of the ovaries is the treatment of choice.", "contents": "Congenital atresia of the cervix. A case of rare m\u00fcllerian anomaly, congenital atresia of the cervix in a functional bicornuate uterus, is presented together with a review of the literature in English. The patient in this case took an active role in the decision regarding the nature of the surgical treatment she was to undergo. It is suggested that total hystrectomy with preservation of the ovaries is the treatment of choice.", "PMID": 450357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9312", "title": "Ultrasonic detection of \"hourglass membranes\" with funic presentation.", "content": "Two cases of prolapse of the amniotic sac through a partially dilated cervix, the so-called \"hourglass membranes,\" are presented. In both cases, ultrasonography revealed the umbilical cord in the prolapsed sac. Both fetuses were grossly immature, and efforts were made to delay labor. In neither patient did rupture of the membranes occur. Fetal distress developed in 1 case, necessitating an emergency cesarean section shortly after the initiation of tocolytic therapy. A 27-week, 800-g infant was delivered who subsequently died. The second case resulted in a 3-week delay in the delivery of a viable fetus who did well. It is concluded that when confronted with a very immature fetus, aggressive measures to delay delivery are justified.", "contents": "Ultrasonic detection of \"hourglass membranes\" with funic presentation. Two cases of prolapse of the amniotic sac through a partially dilated cervix, the so-called \"hourglass membranes,\" are presented. In both cases, ultrasonography revealed the umbilical cord in the prolapsed sac. Both fetuses were grossly immature, and efforts were made to delay labor. In neither patient did rupture of the membranes occur. Fetal distress developed in 1 case, necessitating an emergency cesarean section shortly after the initiation of tocolytic therapy. A 27-week, 800-g infant was delivered who subsequently died. The second case resulted in a 3-week delay in the delivery of a viable fetus who did well. It is concluded that when confronted with a very immature fetus, aggressive measures to delay delivery are justified.", "PMID": 450358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9313", "title": "Routine fetal heart rate monitoring in the antepartum period.", "content": "A total of 4517 successful antepartum nonstress tests (NST) was performed on 2003 high- (28%) and low- (72%) risk obstetric patients. Most patients were monitored from 32 to 34 weeks' gestation onward. A reactive NST was defined as 2 accelerations in 10 minutes--15 beats/min minimum amplitude; 15 seconds minimum duration. The test was repeated at the next visit in low-risk patients with reactive NST or in 1 week in high-risk patients with this response. Nonreactive tests were followed immediately by a stress test in high-risk patients, but only after repeat nonreactive NST within 24 hours in low-risk patients. About 88% of low-risk and 86% of high-risk patients demonstrated ractive NST only. Late decelerations during subsequent stress testing or labor, low Apgar scores, and perinatal deaths were more common in low-risk pregnancies than in high-risk pregnancies and more common in those with nonreactive NST than in those with reactive NST. High-risk/reactive NST babies, however, fared better than low-risk/nonreactive NST babies. Of the 16 perinatal deaths 6 died antepartum, 2 died in labor, and 8 died as neonates. Presumed asphyxia accounted for 6 deaths while significant anomaly accounted for 5; sepsis and trauma accounted for 2 each. In only 2 instances was a reactive NST followed by a death from apparent asphyxia. Routine NST testing appears to improve the resolution of maternal risk classification and may contribute to better perinatal outcome.", "contents": "Routine fetal heart rate monitoring in the antepartum period. A total of 4517 successful antepartum nonstress tests (NST) was performed on 2003 high- (28%) and low- (72%) risk obstetric patients. Most patients were monitored from 32 to 34 weeks' gestation onward. A reactive NST was defined as 2 accelerations in 10 minutes--15 beats/min minimum amplitude; 15 seconds minimum duration. The test was repeated at the next visit in low-risk patients with reactive NST or in 1 week in high-risk patients with this response. Nonreactive tests were followed immediately by a stress test in high-risk patients, but only after repeat nonreactive NST within 24 hours in low-risk patients. About 88% of low-risk and 86% of high-risk patients demonstrated ractive NST only. Late decelerations during subsequent stress testing or labor, low Apgar scores, and perinatal deaths were more common in low-risk pregnancies than in high-risk pregnancies and more common in those with nonreactive NST than in those with reactive NST. High-risk/reactive NST babies, however, fared better than low-risk/nonreactive NST babies. Of the 16 perinatal deaths 6 died antepartum, 2 died in labor, and 8 died as neonates. Presumed asphyxia accounted for 6 deaths while significant anomaly accounted for 5; sepsis and trauma accounted for 2 each. In only 2 instances was a reactive NST followed by a death from apparent asphyxia. Routine NST testing appears to improve the resolution of maternal risk classification and may contribute to better perinatal outcome.", "PMID": 450360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9314", "title": "An epidemiologic study of eclampsia.", "content": "The epidemiologic characteristics of 298 cases of eclampsia treated from 1967 to 1974 in the Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, are described. The incidence of eclampsia was 0.2% of all deliveries, and the nulliparas had a higher incidence than the multiparas in all age groups. About 90% of patients had inadequate or no antenatal care, and 43% of patients suffered their first convulsion after admission to the hospital. Although the patient's own neglect was the major causative factor, physician error played some role in the development of eclampsia. The maternal mortality rate was 4.7%, and factors influencing maternal and perinatal death rates are discussed. The rate of cesarean section for eclamptics was 7%, as compared to a 3% rate for the general obstetric population. The findings suggest that more frequent use of properly timed cesarean section can improve the outlook for both the fetus and mother. An active program aimed at reducing the incidence of eclampsia and its maternal and perinatal mortality is emphasized.", "contents": "An epidemiologic study of eclampsia. The epidemiologic characteristics of 298 cases of eclampsia treated from 1967 to 1974 in the Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, are described. The incidence of eclampsia was 0.2% of all deliveries, and the nulliparas had a higher incidence than the multiparas in all age groups. About 90% of patients had inadequate or no antenatal care, and 43% of patients suffered their first convulsion after admission to the hospital. Although the patient's own neglect was the major causative factor, physician error played some role in the development of eclampsia. The maternal mortality rate was 4.7%, and factors influencing maternal and perinatal death rates are discussed. The rate of cesarean section for eclamptics was 7%, as compared to a 3% rate for the general obstetric population. The findings suggest that more frequent use of properly timed cesarean section can improve the outlook for both the fetus and mother. An active program aimed at reducing the incidence of eclampsia and its maternal and perinatal mortality is emphasized.", "PMID": 450361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9315", "title": "The efficacy of intraamniotic steroids for induction of labor.", "content": "Labor induction in humans by the injection of 18 mg of betamethasone (Celestone) into the amniotic sac was investigated in a group of 19 pregnant women. Eight of the cases were high-risk pregnancies of 36-39 weeks' gestation, and 11 were normal pregnancies of 40-42 weeks' gestation. A group of 19 women at similar stages of pregnancy served as a control group. The criterion for the efficacy of the technique was the onset of labor or rupture of the membranes within 72 hours of the injection. Contrary to other reports, it was concluded that the technique is ineffective since no significant difference was found between the experimental and control groups.", "contents": "The efficacy of intraamniotic steroids for induction of labor. Labor induction in humans by the injection of 18 mg of betamethasone (Celestone) into the amniotic sac was investigated in a group of 19 pregnant women. Eight of the cases were high-risk pregnancies of 36-39 weeks' gestation, and 11 were normal pregnancies of 40-42 weeks' gestation. A group of 19 women at similar stages of pregnancy served as a control group. The criterion for the efficacy of the technique was the onset of labor or rupture of the membranes within 72 hours of the injection. Contrary to other reports, it was concluded that the technique is ineffective since no significant difference was found between the experimental and control groups.", "PMID": 450362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9316", "title": "Comparison of glucocorticoid conjugates with other indexes of fetal maturation.", "content": "Controversy exists as to whether cortisol acts physiologically to accelerate human fetal lung maturation. Recent data from this laboratory showed that cortisol and corticosterone conjugates (GCS) rise fivefold in anmiotic fluid late in pregnancy and correlate well with the palmitic/stearic (P/S) ratio (r = 0.79). In this study GCS was compared with various tests of fetal maturation. In a series of 38 cases compared with the lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio, the GCS and palmitic acid had the highest concurrence (84% agreement), followed by the \"shake\" test (82%), cortisol (74%), cytology (64%), gestational age determined by ultrasound (63%), and creatinine (47%). The GCS correlate better than cortisol itself, probably because cortisol in amniotic fluid is derived from the chorionic membrane as well as from fetal urine. These observations provide convincing evidence of a physiologic link between fetal lung maturation and alteration in fetal steroid production.", "contents": "Comparison of glucocorticoid conjugates with other indexes of fetal maturation. Controversy exists as to whether cortisol acts physiologically to accelerate human fetal lung maturation. Recent data from this laboratory showed that cortisol and corticosterone conjugates (GCS) rise fivefold in anmiotic fluid late in pregnancy and correlate well with the palmitic/stearic (P/S) ratio (r = 0.79). In this study GCS was compared with various tests of fetal maturation. In a series of 38 cases compared with the lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio, the GCS and palmitic acid had the highest concurrence (84% agreement), followed by the \"shake\" test (82%), cortisol (74%), cytology (64%), gestational age determined by ultrasound (63%), and creatinine (47%). The GCS correlate better than cortisol itself, probably because cortisol in amniotic fluid is derived from the chorionic membrane as well as from fetal urine. These observations provide convincing evidence of a physiologic link between fetal lung maturation and alteration in fetal steroid production.", "PMID": 450363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9317", "title": "The radioreceptor assay for hCG in ectopic pregnancy.", "content": "The Biocept-G test (Wampole) is a commercial modification of the radioreceptor assay for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) which takes 1 hours to process and has a sensitivity of 200 mIU/ml for hCG. Over a 9 1/2-month period, 70 consecutive patients with proven ectopic pregnancy were evaluated by the Biocept-G test, 2-minute urine slide test, and culdocentesis. Of 67 of these patients, 94% had a positive Biocept-G test, 82% had a positive culdocentesis, and 69% had a positive urine slide test. Sixty-nine (97%) of the 70 patients had either a positive Biocept-G and/or a positive culdocentesis, while only 1.7% had both a negative culdocentesis and a negative Biocept-G. Thirty-two patients underwent laparoscopy or laparotomy during this time period to rule out ectopic pregnancy but were not found to have this condition. The Biocept-G had a 94% accuracy rate in determining the presence or absence of intrauterine pregnancy in this group, compared to an 82% accuracy rate for the urine slide test. The Biocept-G has the highest true-positive rate for ectopic pregnancy published to date for a rapidly performed, commercially available pregnancy test.", "contents": "The radioreceptor assay for hCG in ectopic pregnancy. The Biocept-G test (Wampole) is a commercial modification of the radioreceptor assay for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) which takes 1 hours to process and has a sensitivity of 200 mIU/ml for hCG. Over a 9 1/2-month period, 70 consecutive patients with proven ectopic pregnancy were evaluated by the Biocept-G test, 2-minute urine slide test, and culdocentesis. Of 67 of these patients, 94% had a positive Biocept-G test, 82% had a positive culdocentesis, and 69% had a positive urine slide test. Sixty-nine (97%) of the 70 patients had either a positive Biocept-G and/or a positive culdocentesis, while only 1.7% had both a negative culdocentesis and a negative Biocept-G. Thirty-two patients underwent laparoscopy or laparotomy during this time period to rule out ectopic pregnancy but were not found to have this condition. The Biocept-G had a 94% accuracy rate in determining the presence or absence of intrauterine pregnancy in this group, compared to an 82% accuracy rate for the urine slide test. The Biocept-G has the highest true-positive rate for ectopic pregnancy published to date for a rapidly performed, commercially available pregnancy test.", "PMID": 450364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9318", "title": "A prospective study of the oxytocin challenge test and newborn neurobehavioral outcome.", "content": "In a prospective study, infants of high-risk mothers delivered over a 1-year period were evaluated by clinical, biochemical, and behavioral methods. Of 67 newborns whose mothers had oxytocin challenge tests (OCTs), 54 were delivered after negative tests, and 13 after positive tests. Infants with positive OCTs had poor state organization and reflexive performance when compared with negative-OCT babies. These infants also showed evidence of intrauterine malnutrition, but did not have any greater asphyxiation than the negative OCT group. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that a positive OCT implies pathological placental respiratory insufficiency, which may be superimposed, in many instances, on impairment in utero of the placenta's nutritional function. The clinical manifestation of such dysfunction is the alteration in subtle neonatal neurobehavior.", "contents": "A prospective study of the oxytocin challenge test and newborn neurobehavioral outcome. In a prospective study, infants of high-risk mothers delivered over a 1-year period were evaluated by clinical, biochemical, and behavioral methods. Of 67 newborns whose mothers had oxytocin challenge tests (OCTs), 54 were delivered after negative tests, and 13 after positive tests. Infants with positive OCTs had poor state organization and reflexive performance when compared with negative-OCT babies. These infants also showed evidence of intrauterine malnutrition, but did not have any greater asphyxiation than the negative OCT group. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that a positive OCT implies pathological placental respiratory insufficiency, which may be superimposed, in many instances, on impairment in utero of the placenta's nutritional function. The clinical manifestation of such dysfunction is the alteration in subtle neonatal neurobehavior.", "PMID": 450365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9319", "title": "Transverse vaginal septum.", "content": "Transverse vaginal septum, perhaps the most common congenital anomaly of the vagina, is nonetheless an unusual finding. A case report and its management and theories concerning the embryology of the vagina are presented. The varying presentations of imperforate versus perforate transverse septa are reviewed, as well as diagnostic tools and treatment modalities. Surgical excision of the septum is advocated.", "contents": "Transverse vaginal septum. Transverse vaginal septum, perhaps the most common congenital anomaly of the vagina, is nonetheless an unusual finding. A case report and its management and theories concerning the embryology of the vagina are presented. The varying presentations of imperforate versus perforate transverse septa are reviewed, as well as diagnostic tools and treatment modalities. Surgical excision of the septum is advocated.", "PMID": 450366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9320", "title": "A prospective trail comparing hysterectomy, hysterectomy plus vaginal radium, and uterine radium plus hysterectomy in stage I endometrial carcinoma.", "content": "From 1958 to 1967, a prospective randomized trial was conducted in 189 women with stage I, group I endometrial adenocarcinoma, comparing treatment by hysterectomy alone, preoperative uterine radium followed by hysterectomy, and hysterectomy and postoperative vaginal radium. All women have been followed for a minimum of 10 years. The actual survival rate at 5 years for all patients was 94.5% and at 10 years, 92.6%, with no statistical significance among the 3 treatment groups. Ther was also no statistical significance in survival rate in relation to size of uterine or myometrial invasion. There was a statistically significant difference in survival between grade I and grade III lesions (P less than 0.01) and between grade II and grade III lesions (P less than 0.05).", "contents": "A prospective trail comparing hysterectomy, hysterectomy plus vaginal radium, and uterine radium plus hysterectomy in stage I endometrial carcinoma. From 1958 to 1967, a prospective randomized trial was conducted in 189 women with stage I, group I endometrial adenocarcinoma, comparing treatment by hysterectomy alone, preoperative uterine radium followed by hysterectomy, and hysterectomy and postoperative vaginal radium. All women have been followed for a minimum of 10 years. The actual survival rate at 5 years for all patients was 94.5% and at 10 years, 92.6%, with no statistical significance among the 3 treatment groups. Ther was also no statistical significance in survival rate in relation to size of uterine or myometrial invasion. There was a statistically significant difference in survival between grade I and grade III lesions (P less than 0.01) and between grade II and grade III lesions (P less than 0.05).", "PMID": 450367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9321", "title": "Brenner tumors of the ovary.", "content": "The clinicopathologic findings in 24 cases of Brenner tumors of the ovary, seen at the University of Michigan Medical Center between 1941 and 1975, are reported. Abnormal uterine bleeding was the most common presenting symptom. Associated endometrial changes ranging from glandular hyperplasia to invasive adenocarcinoma were found in 5 cases. No consistent relationship was found between the thecomatous appearance of the stoma of the tumor and endometrial changes suggestive of estrogen stimulation. Seven patients had other types of ovarian neoplasms. Four patients had bilateral brenner tumors. Three Brenner tumors were histologically and clinically malignant. This study suggests that the presumed potential steroidogenesis of the Brenner tumors of the ovary may not always be a product of the thecalike cells of the stroma. The need for further biosynthetic studies is reemphasized. Furthermore, when conservative therapy of a benign tumor is attempted, the contralateral ovary should be carefully examined and a wedge resection considered. The optimal therapy of malignant Brenner tumors has not been established; adequate surgery and careful staging followed by individualized adjuvant therapy is recommended.", "contents": "Brenner tumors of the ovary. The clinicopathologic findings in 24 cases of Brenner tumors of the ovary, seen at the University of Michigan Medical Center between 1941 and 1975, are reported. Abnormal uterine bleeding was the most common presenting symptom. Associated endometrial changes ranging from glandular hyperplasia to invasive adenocarcinoma were found in 5 cases. No consistent relationship was found between the thecomatous appearance of the stoma of the tumor and endometrial changes suggestive of estrogen stimulation. Seven patients had other types of ovarian neoplasms. Four patients had bilateral brenner tumors. Three Brenner tumors were histologically and clinically malignant. This study suggests that the presumed potential steroidogenesis of the Brenner tumors of the ovary may not always be a product of the thecalike cells of the stroma. The need for further biosynthetic studies is reemphasized. Furthermore, when conservative therapy of a benign tumor is attempted, the contralateral ovary should be carefully examined and a wedge resection considered. The optimal therapy of malignant Brenner tumors has not been established; adequate surgery and careful staging followed by individualized adjuvant therapy is recommended.", "PMID": 450368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9322", "title": "Serum lysozyme levels in patients with solid tumors.", "content": "Serum lysozyme has been demonstrated to be an indicator for macrophage activity in the tumor-bearing host. Therefore, we investigated lysozyme levels in the sera of 336 untreated tumor patients (121 malignant melanoma, 61 lung cancers, 70 cervical cancers, 49 breast cancers and 35 benign breast tumors, and 36 healthy controls). Patients with malignant melanoma and lung cancer had significantly higher lysozyme levels than the healthy controls. Within the clinical stages in melanoma, there was a decrease of lysozyme in stages II and III in comparison to stage I, but still above that of the control values. Patients with benign breast tumors had normal levels, whereas in breast cancer patients of stages I and II there was a significant reduction in the lysozyme levels. In stages III and IV no differences to the control group could be detected. In patients with cervical cancer (FIGO II and III) serum lysozyme levels were found to be within the normal range. From this study it can not be concluded that serum lysozyme reflects the immunological reactivity of the tumor bearer. Nevertheless, the reduced levels in stages I and II of breast cancer might point to an immunological defect.", "contents": "Serum lysozyme levels in patients with solid tumors. Serum lysozyme has been demonstrated to be an indicator for macrophage activity in the tumor-bearing host. Therefore, we investigated lysozyme levels in the sera of 336 untreated tumor patients (121 malignant melanoma, 61 lung cancers, 70 cervical cancers, 49 breast cancers and 35 benign breast tumors, and 36 healthy controls). Patients with malignant melanoma and lung cancer had significantly higher lysozyme levels than the healthy controls. Within the clinical stages in melanoma, there was a decrease of lysozyme in stages II and III in comparison to stage I, but still above that of the control values. Patients with benign breast tumors had normal levels, whereas in breast cancer patients of stages I and II there was a significant reduction in the lysozyme levels. In stages III and IV no differences to the control group could be detected. In patients with cervical cancer (FIGO II and III) serum lysozyme levels were found to be within the normal range. From this study it can not be concluded that serum lysozyme reflects the immunological reactivity of the tumor bearer. Nevertheless, the reduced levels in stages I and II of breast cancer might point to an immunological defect.", "PMID": 450387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9323", "title": "C cell adenoma of the human thyroid gland.", "content": "A case of C cell thyroid adenoma in a 47-year-old female patient is described. The nodule showed progression over 34 years. The adenoma cells showed histochemical and ultrastructural properties characteristic for C cells. Histologic examination revealed no atypical features of nodule cells nor infiltration of capsule by neoplastic cells. In the period of 8 years following the excision there was neither recurrence nor metastases.", "contents": "C cell adenoma of the human thyroid gland. A case of C cell thyroid adenoma in a 47-year-old female patient is described. The nodule showed progression over 34 years. The adenoma cells showed histochemical and ultrastructural properties characteristic for C cells. Histologic examination revealed no atypical features of nodule cells nor infiltration of capsule by neoplastic cells. In the period of 8 years following the excision there was neither recurrence nor metastases.", "PMID": 450388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9324", "title": "Indication and clinical evaluation of radical and semiradical neck dissection on the basis of 271 operations.", "content": "Between the period of 1956 and 1973, 271 radical and semiradical neck dissections were performed. The 'en bloc' method was used in 75 patients with cancer of the larynx and in 47 thyroid cancer patients. Analysis of the patient material revealed the operative mortality of 1.5%. 5-year survival was observed in 34.8% of the patients. The incidence of local recurrence amounted to 21%.", "contents": "Indication and clinical evaluation of radical and semiradical neck dissection on the basis of 271 operations. Between the period of 1956 and 1973, 271 radical and semiradical neck dissections were performed. The 'en bloc' method was used in 75 patients with cancer of the larynx and in 47 thyroid cancer patients. Analysis of the patient material revealed the operative mortality of 1.5%. 5-year survival was observed in 34.8% of the patients. The incidence of local recurrence amounted to 21%.", "PMID": 450389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9325", "title": "Effect of 1(4-amino-2-methyl-5-pyrimidinyl) methyl-3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosourea hydrochloride (ACNU) on Sato lung carcinoma (SLC). Preliminary result of immunochemotherapy for SLC by combination of ACNU and Propionibacterium acnes.", "content": "ACNU was highly effective for Sato lung carcinoma transplanted intravenously or intramuscularly by using a large single dose, and the cytotoxic action of ACNU for SLC showed clear dependence upon tumor size. Nonspecific activation of host-defence mechanism by Propionibacterium acnes contributed to the suppression for the regrowth of solid SLC treated by ACNU.", "contents": "Effect of 1(4-amino-2-methyl-5-pyrimidinyl) methyl-3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosourea hydrochloride (ACNU) on Sato lung carcinoma (SLC). Preliminary result of immunochemotherapy for SLC by combination of ACNU and Propionibacterium acnes. ACNU was highly effective for Sato lung carcinoma transplanted intravenously or intramuscularly by using a large single dose, and the cytotoxic action of ACNU for SLC showed clear dependence upon tumor size. Nonspecific activation of host-defence mechanism by Propionibacterium acnes contributed to the suppression for the regrowth of solid SLC treated by ACNU.", "PMID": 450390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9326", "title": "Prosthetic replacement of the patellofemoral joint.", "content": "We are just beginning to fully appreciate the significant role of the patellofemoral joint in total knee replacement surgery. Most of the new generation prostheses have a flanged femoral component. The tendency is to make the flange more anatomic in shape as more attention is paid to patellar tracking. Most systems have an optional polyethylene button to resurface the patellar side of the patellofemoral joint, and indications for its use are increasing. Although pain relief with patellar buttons seems uniform, the potential complications of stress fracture, loosening, and wear must temper our enthusiasm for their use until there is longer follow-up. Vitallium hemiarthroplasty of the patella is available in prostheses with and without the requirement for cement fixation. Most investigators have good results in chondromalacia (as a secondary procedure), but the experience in the literature is small. Results have been poor when the femoral side of the joint has been involved. Metal to plastic isolated patellofemoral prostheses have been designed to treat disease on both sides of the patellofemoral joint or to salvage unflanged total knee replacements with residual patellofemoral symptoms. Short term experience has been promising.", "contents": "Prosthetic replacement of the patellofemoral joint. We are just beginning to fully appreciate the significant role of the patellofemoral joint in total knee replacement surgery. Most of the new generation prostheses have a flanged femoral component. The tendency is to make the flange more anatomic in shape as more attention is paid to patellar tracking. Most systems have an optional polyethylene button to resurface the patellar side of the patellofemoral joint, and indications for its use are increasing. Although pain relief with patellar buttons seems uniform, the potential complications of stress fracture, loosening, and wear must temper our enthusiasm for their use until there is longer follow-up. Vitallium hemiarthroplasty of the patella is available in prostheses with and without the requirement for cement fixation. Most investigators have good results in chondromalacia (as a secondary procedure), but the experience in the literature is small. Results have been poor when the femoral side of the joint has been involved. Metal to plastic isolated patellofemoral prostheses have been designed to treat disease on both sides of the patellofemoral joint or to salvage unflanged total knee replacements with residual patellofemoral symptoms. Short term experience has been promising.", "PMID": 450394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9327", "title": "The synovial fluid.", "content": "The synovial fluid is readily available for study in all cases of effusion. Whenever a question of diagnosis arises, the fluid should be removed for study. Removal of large effusions gives temporary relief of pain. The fluid removed should be smeared on a slide, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and plated for bacterial, viral, and fungal cultures. The solid constituents of the fluid can easily be studied in the simplest of laboratories. Most of the constituents of plasma are present in synovial fluids. Quantitation of glucose, protein, and cells and an attempt to identify crystals, cartilage fragments, or even foreign bodies are crucial to therapy and the evolution of the disease.", "contents": "The synovial fluid. The synovial fluid is readily available for study in all cases of effusion. Whenever a question of diagnosis arises, the fluid should be removed for study. Removal of large effusions gives temporary relief of pain. The fluid removed should be smeared on a slide, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and plated for bacterial, viral, and fungal cultures. The solid constituents of the fluid can easily be studied in the simplest of laboratories. Most of the constituents of plasma are present in synovial fluids. Quantitation of glucose, protein, and cells and an attempt to identify crystals, cartilage fragments, or even foreign bodies are crucial to therapy and the evolution of the disease.", "PMID": 450398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9328", "title": "Synovectomy of the knee joint.", "content": "Patients with active rheumatoid arthritis of the knee should be considered for synovectomy to arrest the disease and to preserve joint function. Careful selection of patients on the basis of the weight bearing roentgenogram is important. Surgery should not be delayed if there is evidence of progression of the disease on serial roentgenograms, or if the original films reveal early joint disease. Preservation of the suprapatellar pouch to prevent adhesions of the quadriceps mechanism greatly improves the postoperative range of motion. Long term follow-up over 10 years has demonstrated the value of synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis of the knee.", "contents": "Synovectomy of the knee joint. Patients with active rheumatoid arthritis of the knee should be considered for synovectomy to arrest the disease and to preserve joint function. Careful selection of patients on the basis of the weight bearing roentgenogram is important. Surgery should not be delayed if there is evidence of progression of the disease on serial roentgenograms, or if the original films reveal early joint disease. Preservation of the suprapatellar pouch to prevent adhesions of the quadriceps mechanism greatly improves the postoperative range of motion. Long term follow-up over 10 years has demonstrated the value of synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis of the knee.", "PMID": 450399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9329", "title": "Diagnosis of osteoarthritis: the value of laboratory tests.", "content": "Osteoarthritis by definition involves a progressive degeneration in one or many synovial joints and has a multifaceted etiology. The limitation of pathologic responses to an initial insult minimizes the value of microscopic examination of the tissues long after the original injury. The cornerstone of diagnosis has been the plane film x-ray examination, which allows the study and comparison of macroscopic changes that are common to osteoarthritis and aids in diagnosing other causes of arthritis. Synovial fluid analysis in doubtful diagnoses is useful in ruling out specific arthritides such as infection or crystal induced arthritis, or in pinpointing inflammation as a factor in the individual case. Synovial fluid studies are especially important in allowing recognition of conditions in which appropriate treatment can prevent secondary osteoarthritis, e.g., sepsis. This technique may also be necessary to rule out sepsis before implant joint reconstitution.", "contents": "Diagnosis of osteoarthritis: the value of laboratory tests. Osteoarthritis by definition involves a progressive degeneration in one or many synovial joints and has a multifaceted etiology. The limitation of pathologic responses to an initial insult minimizes the value of microscopic examination of the tissues long after the original injury. The cornerstone of diagnosis has been the plane film x-ray examination, which allows the study and comparison of macroscopic changes that are common to osteoarthritis and aids in diagnosing other causes of arthritis. Synovial fluid analysis in doubtful diagnoses is useful in ruling out specific arthritides such as infection or crystal induced arthritis, or in pinpointing inflammation as a factor in the individual case. Synovial fluid studies are especially important in allowing recognition of conditions in which appropriate treatment can prevent secondary osteoarthritis, e.g., sepsis. This technique may also be necessary to rule out sepsis before implant joint reconstitution.", "PMID": 450409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9330", "title": "Laboratory diagnosis of postoperative sepsis of the musculoskeletal system.", "content": "The diagnosis of acute sepsis after musculoskeletal surgery is based on the results of the clinical examination. Microbiologic evaluation of clinical specimens permits identification of the causal organism(s) and of the susceptibility studies. In the subacute stage of postoperative sepsis, roentgenographic examination, a peripheral leukocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hemoglobin level, and nuclear scans can be helpful to the clinician. Frozen section histologic examination of tissues and Gram staining of fluids obtained at surgery have resolved the choice in differential diagnosis between aseptic and septic loosening of painful prosthetic components. Laboratory evaluation, including tissue biopsy, identifies the chronic complications of amyloidosis and malignant change in patients with long term sepsis of the musculoskeletal system.", "contents": "Laboratory diagnosis of postoperative sepsis of the musculoskeletal system. The diagnosis of acute sepsis after musculoskeletal surgery is based on the results of the clinical examination. Microbiologic evaluation of clinical specimens permits identification of the causal organism(s) and of the susceptibility studies. In the subacute stage of postoperative sepsis, roentgenographic examination, a peripheral leukocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hemoglobin level, and nuclear scans can be helpful to the clinician. Frozen section histologic examination of tissues and Gram staining of fluids obtained at surgery have resolved the choice in differential diagnosis between aseptic and septic loosening of painful prosthetic components. Laboratory evaluation, including tissue biopsy, identifies the chronic complications of amyloidosis and malignant change in patients with long term sepsis of the musculoskeletal system.", "PMID": 450411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9331", "title": "Anemia in the orthopedic patient: a diagnostic approach.", "content": "Anemia is the most common hematologic abnormality in the orthopedic patient. The diagnostic work-up is relatively simple if a systematic routine for ordering laboratory test is employed. The approach presented here includes a series of alogarithms incorporating pertinent laboratory tests that allow for a presumptive diagnosis and subsequent confirmation of a particular disease process. Whether all or none of the confirmatory tests is carried out depends on the severity of the anemia as well as the clinical setting. Failure to confirm a diagnosis means that other pathways should be followed or that additional diagnostic possibilities should be considered. There has been no attempt to cover all diagnostic possibilities should be considered. There has been no attempt to cover all diagnostic possibilities but rather to demonstrate a general approach to laboratory utilization.", "contents": "Anemia in the orthopedic patient: a diagnostic approach. Anemia is the most common hematologic abnormality in the orthopedic patient. The diagnostic work-up is relatively simple if a systematic routine for ordering laboratory test is employed. The approach presented here includes a series of alogarithms incorporating pertinent laboratory tests that allow for a presumptive diagnosis and subsequent confirmation of a particular disease process. Whether all or none of the confirmatory tests is carried out depends on the severity of the anemia as well as the clinical setting. Failure to confirm a diagnosis means that other pathways should be followed or that additional diagnostic possibilities should be considered. There has been no attempt to cover all diagnostic possibilities should be considered. There has been no attempt to cover all diagnostic possibilities but rather to demonstrate a general approach to laboratory utilization.", "PMID": 450412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9332", "title": "The Dens-Arch synchondrosis versus the Hangman's fracture.", "content": "The synchondrosis between the dens and arch of C2 is a normal structure in infants and children. It is not visible on lateral views of the cervical spine, but is routinely visible on oblique views. In such cases it has a distinct tendency to mimic a C2-arch fracture. The varying appearance of this synchondrosis and its differentiation from a true fracture of C2 are the subjects of this report.", "contents": "The Dens-Arch synchondrosis versus the Hangman's fracture. The synchondrosis between the dens and arch of C2 is a normal structure in infants and children. It is not visible on lateral views of the cervical spine, but is routinely visible on oblique views. In such cases it has a distinct tendency to mimic a C2-arch fracture. The varying appearance of this synchondrosis and its differentiation from a true fracture of C2 are the subjects of this report.", "PMID": 450482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9333", "title": "CT whole-body scanning and scintigraphy in children with malignant tumours. A comparative retrospective study.", "content": "A restrospective comparison between CT and scintigraphy with 99mTechnetium-phosphate (Tc-P) and 67-Gallium-citrate (GA) has been performed in 8 children with malignant extracranial tumours and in 9 children during concurrent control after treatment. CT was superior to scintigraphy in the primary tumour evaluation with regard size, type and invasiveness of the tumour. In the same way, regression, progression or local recurrence after treatment was better visualized by CT than by Ga and Tc-P scanning. In the detection of secondary spread of the tumour, CT is most sensitive of the modalities in the examination of the lungs, whereas Tc-P schintigraphy still is the method of choice to study metastases in the skeleton.", "contents": "CT whole-body scanning and scintigraphy in children with malignant tumours. A comparative retrospective study. A restrospective comparison between CT and scintigraphy with 99mTechnetium-phosphate (Tc-P) and 67-Gallium-citrate (GA) has been performed in 8 children with malignant extracranial tumours and in 9 children during concurrent control after treatment. CT was superior to scintigraphy in the primary tumour evaluation with regard size, type and invasiveness of the tumour. In the same way, regression, progression or local recurrence after treatment was better visualized by CT than by Ga and Tc-P scanning. In the detection of secondary spread of the tumour, CT is most sensitive of the modalities in the examination of the lungs, whereas Tc-P schintigraphy still is the method of choice to study metastases in the skeleton.", "PMID": 450483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9334", "title": "Shunt metastases of pineal tumors presenting as a pelvic mass.", "content": "Three children with pineal area tumors and ventriculoperitoneal shunts developed pelvic masses. In two, the solid masses reflected tumor cells seeded to the Pouch of Douglas while the third developed a loculation of fluid and tumor cells at the shunt tip.", "contents": "Shunt metastases of pineal tumors presenting as a pelvic mass. Three children with pineal area tumors and ventriculoperitoneal shunts developed pelvic masses. In two, the solid masses reflected tumor cells seeded to the Pouch of Douglas while the third developed a loculation of fluid and tumor cells at the shunt tip.", "PMID": 450484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9335", "title": "Intestinal perforation in newborn following intrauterine meconium peritonitis.", "content": "A newborn infant, who had suffered intrauterine perforation and had developed peritoneal calcification, showed no sign of pneumoperitoneum on the first radiograph taken 3 hours after delivery. At that time air was present in the stomach only. Subsequently pneumoperitoneum developed as air passed down the gut to the point of perforation. Thus, the absence of pneumoperitoneum on a radiograph taken very early in life does not exclude an intestinal perforation.", "contents": "Intestinal perforation in newborn following intrauterine meconium peritonitis. A newborn infant, who had suffered intrauterine perforation and had developed peritoneal calcification, showed no sign of pneumoperitoneum on the first radiograph taken 3 hours after delivery. At that time air was present in the stomach only. Subsequently pneumoperitoneum developed as air passed down the gut to the point of perforation. Thus, the absence of pneumoperitoneum on a radiograph taken very early in life does not exclude an intestinal perforation.", "PMID": 450485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9336", "title": "Radiological features in trisomy 8.", "content": "Radiological study may prompt the correct diagnosis of Trisomy 8 mosaicism when the clinical features are mild and could be overlook. Skeletal features characteristic of Trisomy 8 are found in the skull, elbows, spine, pelvis, hands and feet.", "contents": "Radiological features in trisomy 8. Radiological study may prompt the correct diagnosis of Trisomy 8 mosaicism when the clinical features are mild and could be overlook. Skeletal features characteristic of Trisomy 8 are found in the skull, elbows, spine, pelvis, hands and feet.", "PMID": 450486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9337", "title": "Subglottic mucocele in an infant.", "content": "A subglottic mucocele caused partial obstruction of the upper airways. The radiologic findings were asymmetrical narrowing of the subglottic area with a mass arising from its posterior wall simulating a subglottic hemangioma. Surgical treatment was successfull.", "contents": "Subglottic mucocele in an infant. A subglottic mucocele caused partial obstruction of the upper airways. The radiologic findings were asymmetrical narrowing of the subglottic area with a mass arising from its posterior wall simulating a subglottic hemangioma. Surgical treatment was successfull.", "PMID": 450487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9338", "title": "Venous angioma of the neck in a child.", "content": "Venous vascular masses in the neck are rare entities in the pediatric population. Aneurysmal dilatation or ectasia of the superficial cervical vein, the so-called \"venous angioma\" is a very uncommon condition. A 12-year old female with venous angioma involving the right neck is described. The preoperative diagnosis was confirmed by angiography.", "contents": "Venous angioma of the neck in a child. Venous vascular masses in the neck are rare entities in the pediatric population. Aneurysmal dilatation or ectasia of the superficial cervical vein, the so-called \"venous angioma\" is a very uncommon condition. A 12-year old female with venous angioma involving the right neck is described. The preoperative diagnosis was confirmed by angiography.", "PMID": 450488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9339", "title": "Radiological aspects of the small bowel after extensive resection in children.", "content": "The authors present radiological aspects of small bowel after extensive resection. They describe the main phenomena related to compensatory hypertrophy: dilatation of the loops, mucosal fold-thickening and motor disturbances. The main complications demonstrated by the radiological examination are presented; gallstones, non-functioning anastomosis, bacterial overgrowth.", "contents": "Radiological aspects of the small bowel after extensive resection in children. The authors present radiological aspects of small bowel after extensive resection. They describe the main phenomena related to compensatory hypertrophy: dilatation of the loops, mucosal fold-thickening and motor disturbances. The main complications demonstrated by the radiological examination are presented; gallstones, non-functioning anastomosis, bacterial overgrowth.", "PMID": 450489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9340", "title": "Trichuriasis. Roentgenographic features and differential diagnosis with lymphoid hyperplasia.", "content": "Twenty patients with massive trichuriasis were studied with double contrast barium enema. The following changes were observed: 1) Impregnation defects of the colonic wall probably due to abundant mucous secretions. 2) Granular features. 3) Pear-shaped caecum. 4) Radiolucid ringlike images with some contrast material in its center, similar to those seen in lymphoid hyperplasia. On closer observation it was seen that the radiolucid ring was not complete and was continued by a prolongation which corresponds to the whipworm. This feature is central to the differential diagnosis.", "contents": "Trichuriasis. Roentgenographic features and differential diagnosis with lymphoid hyperplasia. Twenty patients with massive trichuriasis were studied with double contrast barium enema. The following changes were observed: 1) Impregnation defects of the colonic wall probably due to abundant mucous secretions. 2) Granular features. 3) Pear-shaped caecum. 4) Radiolucid ringlike images with some contrast material in its center, similar to those seen in lymphoid hyperplasia. On closer observation it was seen that the radiolucid ring was not complete and was continued by a prolongation which corresponds to the whipworm. This feature is central to the differential diagnosis.", "PMID": 450490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9341", "title": "Acroosteolysis. Problems of diagnosis--report of four cases.", "content": "Four cases of idiopathic acroosteolysis are reported. The first is a common phalangeal type, the second, the Hozay variety. The third case was diagnosed after a mumps infection, and marked regress of the changes was noted in the following years. The fourth case shows skin changes, periostitis, mild osteosclerosis, and skull changes as well as acroosteolysis.", "contents": "Acroosteolysis. Problems of diagnosis--report of four cases. Four cases of idiopathic acroosteolysis are reported. The first is a common phalangeal type, the second, the Hozay variety. The third case was diagnosed after a mumps infection, and marked regress of the changes was noted in the following years. The fourth case shows skin changes, periostitis, mild osteosclerosis, and skull changes as well as acroosteolysis.", "PMID": 450491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9342", "title": "The wide spectrum of the asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia.", "content": "Seven cases of A. T. D. are presented. Radiological findings were extraordinarily diverse. The prognosis of the disease is difficult for each individual case, because of the frequent pulmonary complications and cystic renal lesions are not always directly related to the severity of the bone changes. The authors believe that the term \"thoracic-pelvic-phalangeal dysplasia\" proposed by Langer, is the most adequate, since it points to the key factors in the diagnosis of the disease.", "contents": "The wide spectrum of the asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia. Seven cases of A. T. D. are presented. Radiological findings were extraordinarily diverse. The prognosis of the disease is difficult for each individual case, because of the frequent pulmonary complications and cystic renal lesions are not always directly related to the severity of the bone changes. The authors believe that the term \"thoracic-pelvic-phalangeal dysplasia\" proposed by Langer, is the most adequate, since it points to the key factors in the diagnosis of the disease.", "PMID": 450492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9343", "title": "Neonatal hyperviscosity: I. Incidence.", "content": "Capillary hematocrits were performed on 790 infants during the first four hours after birth. These infants were delivered between August 8 and December 7, 1974, at the University of Colorado Medical Center, which is at an altitude of 1,061 m above sea level. When the capillary hematocrit was 7% or greater, venous hematocrit and blood viscosity were determined. Capillary hematocrits obtained from warmed heels in the first hour after birth were spuriously high and not consistently related to venous hematocrit. Venous polycythemia, defined as a hematocrit of 65% or greater, occurred in 4% of the newborn population. Hyperviscosity (greater than 2 SD above the mean for newborns) occurred in 5% of the newborn infants. At a venous hematocrit of 65% or greater, hyperviscosity was predictable, but some infants with venous hematocrits between 60% and 64% also had hyperviscosity of the blood. The incidence of polycythemia and hyperviscosity was further related to birth weight and gestational age. The infants who were small for gestational age were at highest risk of polycythemia and hyperviscosity, followed by infants who were large for gestational age. However, the greatest number of infants with hyperviscosity were term appropriate for gestational age. Preterm infants with gestational ages of less than 34 weeks were not affected.", "contents": "Neonatal hyperviscosity: I. Incidence. Capillary hematocrits were performed on 790 infants during the first four hours after birth. These infants were delivered between August 8 and December 7, 1974, at the University of Colorado Medical Center, which is at an altitude of 1,061 m above sea level. When the capillary hematocrit was 7% or greater, venous hematocrit and blood viscosity were determined. Capillary hematocrits obtained from warmed heels in the first hour after birth were spuriously high and not consistently related to venous hematocrit. Venous polycythemia, defined as a hematocrit of 65% or greater, occurred in 4% of the newborn population. Hyperviscosity (greater than 2 SD above the mean for newborns) occurred in 5% of the newborn infants. At a venous hematocrit of 65% or greater, hyperviscosity was predictable, but some infants with venous hematocrits between 60% and 64% also had hyperviscosity of the blood. The incidence of polycythemia and hyperviscosity was further related to birth weight and gestational age. The infants who were small for gestational age were at highest risk of polycythemia and hyperviscosity, followed by infants who were large for gestational age. However, the greatest number of infants with hyperviscosity were term appropriate for gestational age. Preterm infants with gestational ages of less than 34 weeks were not affected.", "PMID": 450517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9344", "title": "Obstructive sleep apnea and near miss for SIDS: I. Report of an infant with sudden death.", "content": "An infant girl followed up from birth to death at the University Medical Center had \"\"congenital stridor'' and a \"\"near miss for SIDS'' event at 3 months of age. As part of an ongoing SIDS research project, she underwent 24-hour polygraphic monitoring at 21 weeks of age. Sudden infant death occurred within 30 hours after the polygraphic study. Polygraphic data obtained from this infant are compared with those from control infants and other infants with near miss for SIDS who were of similar ages. The number of mixed and obstructive respiratory events during sleep was abnormally high on the infant's recording. Histologic findings, involving particularly the midline structures of the brain stem, are discussed.", "contents": "Obstructive sleep apnea and near miss for SIDS: I. Report of an infant with sudden death. An infant girl followed up from birth to death at the University Medical Center had \"\"congenital stridor'' and a \"\"near miss for SIDS'' event at 3 months of age. As part of an ongoing SIDS research project, she underwent 24-hour polygraphic monitoring at 21 weeks of age. Sudden infant death occurred within 30 hours after the polygraphic study. Polygraphic data obtained from this infant are compared with those from control infants and other infants with near miss for SIDS who were of similar ages. The number of mixed and obstructive respiratory events during sleep was abnormally high on the infant's recording. Histologic findings, involving particularly the midline structures of the brain stem, are discussed.", "PMID": 450518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9345", "title": "The effects of stimulant medication on the growth of hyperkinetic children.", "content": "This article reviews the literature on possible growth-suppressing effects of stimulant medications in the long-term treatment of children with the hyperkinetic behavior syndrome. The evidence clearly indicates a temporary retardation in the rate of growth in weight and suggests a temporary slowing of growth in stature, but no effect on adult stature or weight. This temporary effect on growth is present during the first few years of treatment and seems related to drug dosage and to the presence or absence of drug holidays. These conclusions related specifically to treatment during the prepubertal period; little is known of the growth-related effects of treatment extending through pubescence.", "contents": "The effects of stimulant medication on the growth of hyperkinetic children. This article reviews the literature on possible growth-suppressing effects of stimulant medications in the long-term treatment of children with the hyperkinetic behavior syndrome. The evidence clearly indicates a temporary retardation in the rate of growth in weight and suggests a temporary slowing of growth in stature, but no effect on adult stature or weight. This temporary effect on growth is present during the first few years of treatment and seems related to drug dosage and to the presence or absence of drug holidays. These conclusions related specifically to treatment during the prepubertal period; little is known of the growth-related effects of treatment extending through pubescence.", "PMID": 450520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9346", "title": "Manometry and histochemistry in the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease.", "content": "Acetylcholine esterase histochemistry and rectal manometry have been used sequentially to evaluate constipated children and to make the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease. When applied together, these modalities give a reliable diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease, restricting the use of deep rectal biopsy to those patients in whom symptoms are most suggestive of Hirschsprung's disease. Acetylcholine esterase histochemistry may be more reliable than rectal manometry in the newborn and premature periods. It is hoped that the combined use of these techniques may make deep rectal biopsy obsolete except in patients with hypoganglionosis.", "contents": "Manometry and histochemistry in the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease. Acetylcholine esterase histochemistry and rectal manometry have been used sequentially to evaluate constipated children and to make the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease. When applied together, these modalities give a reliable diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease, restricting the use of deep rectal biopsy to those patients in whom symptoms are most suggestive of Hirschsprung's disease. Acetylcholine esterase histochemistry may be more reliable than rectal manometry in the newborn and premature periods. It is hoped that the combined use of these techniques may make deep rectal biopsy obsolete except in patients with hypoganglionosis.", "PMID": 450523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9347", "title": "Malignant paraganglioma (pheochromocytoma) of the urinary bladder: report of a case and review of the literature.", "content": "A rare case of malignant paraganglioma of the urinary bladder with metastasis to a lymph node in a 12-year-old girl is reported, and eight other previously recorded cases are reviewed. Headache, fainting, and hypertension initiated by voiding were the most prominent clinical symptoms. Hematuria was present in three cases and aided in prompt diagnosis. Cystography, pelvic angiography, and cystoscopy were most diagnostic. Segmental cystectomy when feasible, was the preferred surgical treatment. The prognosis was slightly better than for other forms of extraadrenal pheochromocytomas.", "contents": "Malignant paraganglioma (pheochromocytoma) of the urinary bladder: report of a case and review of the literature. A rare case of malignant paraganglioma of the urinary bladder with metastasis to a lymph node in a 12-year-old girl is reported, and eight other previously recorded cases are reviewed. Headache, fainting, and hypertension initiated by voiding were the most prominent clinical symptoms. Hematuria was present in three cases and aided in prompt diagnosis. Cystography, pelvic angiography, and cystoscopy were most diagnostic. Segmental cystectomy when feasible, was the preferred surgical treatment. The prognosis was slightly better than for other forms of extraadrenal pheochromocytomas.", "PMID": 450524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9348", "title": "Renal anomalies in fetal alcohol syndrome.", "content": "Six patients with fetal alcohol syndrome were found to have developmental abnormalities of the kidney. In only one patient was investigation for renal pathology made in the absence of clinical indication. Two had palpable masses in the left upper quadrant, one had pyelonephritis, one had painless hematuria, and the fifth patient had symptomatology suggestive of renal failure. Although the renal pathology was not of the same type in all cases, it is of interest that four patients had either unilateral or bilateral renal hypoplasia.", "contents": "Renal anomalies in fetal alcohol syndrome. Six patients with fetal alcohol syndrome were found to have developmental abnormalities of the kidney. In only one patient was investigation for renal pathology made in the absence of clinical indication. Two had palpable masses in the left upper quadrant, one had pyelonephritis, one had painless hematuria, and the fifth patient had symptomatology suggestive of renal failure. Although the renal pathology was not of the same type in all cases, it is of interest that four patients had either unilateral or bilateral renal hypoplasia.", "PMID": 450525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9349", "title": "Conotruncal malformation complex: examples of possible monogenic inheritance.", "content": "Two families are described in which there is possible monogenic inheritance of congenital cardiac defects within the spectrum of faulty conotruncal septation (CTS). Evidence for a genetic control of conotruncal septation arises from genetic and embryologic studies of similar defects in the Keeshond dog model, the excess of sibship pairs with conotruncal septation defects in sibship pairs with congenital heart diseases, and previously reported pedigrees of families with multiple affected individuals with conotruncal septation defects. It is suggested that in the small number of cases of congenital cardiac defects in which there is a strong family history for CTS defects, a higher recurrence risk should be considered rather than the usual polygenic recurrence risk of 3% that is usually given in such situations.", "contents": "Conotruncal malformation complex: examples of possible monogenic inheritance. Two families are described in which there is possible monogenic inheritance of congenital cardiac defects within the spectrum of faulty conotruncal septation (CTS). Evidence for a genetic control of conotruncal septation arises from genetic and embryologic studies of similar defects in the Keeshond dog model, the excess of sibship pairs with conotruncal septation defects in sibship pairs with congenital heart diseases, and previously reported pedigrees of families with multiple affected individuals with conotruncal septation defects. It is suggested that in the small number of cases of congenital cardiac defects in which there is a strong family history for CTS defects, a higher recurrence risk should be considered rather than the usual polygenic recurrence risk of 3% that is usually given in such situations.", "PMID": 450526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9350", "title": "IQ measurement in children with skeletal dysplasia.", "content": "We have reviewed the IQ studies on 68 children with skeletal dysplasia. These data should provide useful information for the counseling of parents with newborn affected children. Previous studies have documented retardation and hydrocephalus in association with achondroplasia. Some parents report that they were given a poor prognosis for their child's mental development early in his or her life. This study shows that the 34 children with achondroplasia and 34 with other skeletal dysplasia performed intellectually in the same range as other children.", "contents": "IQ measurement in children with skeletal dysplasia. We have reviewed the IQ studies on 68 children with skeletal dysplasia. These data should provide useful information for the counseling of parents with newborn affected children. Previous studies have documented retardation and hydrocephalus in association with achondroplasia. Some parents report that they were given a poor prognosis for their child's mental development early in his or her life. This study shows that the 34 children with achondroplasia and 34 with other skeletal dysplasia performed intellectually in the same range as other children.", "PMID": 450527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9351", "title": "The role of the pediatrician in the delivery of mental health services to children.", "content": "Nine pediatricians reported on all patients seen during a four-week period in January and February 1976 in Monroe County, N.Y., to determine the prevalence and nature of mental health problems seen in their practices, the characteristics of the affected children, and the treatment provided to them. Of the 3,742 patients seen, 187, or 5.0%,were reported to have an emotional, behavioral, or school problem. The prevalence rate ranged from 1.4% to 7.8% by pediatrician, with five reporting rates within +/- 1.2% of the mean. High rates were associated with children in the 7 to 14 year age group (9.9%), those on Medicaid (8.6%), those who were not living with a father (10.9%), those whose presenting complaint was a chronic physical condition (11.7%), and children with a disease of the digestive system (16.7%) or with \"\"symptoms, signs and ill-defined conditions'' (14.3%). Functional impairment was reported to be moderate or severe in 40% of the 187 children with mental health problems. The most frequently reported problems (primary or otherwise) were adaptation reaction (22.5%), specific learning disorder (19.3%), hyperkinetic disorder (19.3%), psychosomatic disorder (12.8%), and conduct disorder (12.8%). The most frequent form of treatment provided was supportive therapy or counseling (85.6%) and suggestions regarding environmental changes (43.3%). Drugs were prescribed for 16.0% of the affected children, with 6.4% receiving methylphenidate or amphetamines. Referral for psychological care or consultation was made for 36.9%. The frequency of mental health problems observed by the pediatricians was about five times the annual rate of Monroe County children contacting a psychiatric inpatient or outpatient setting.", "contents": "The role of the pediatrician in the delivery of mental health services to children. Nine pediatricians reported on all patients seen during a four-week period in January and February 1976 in Monroe County, N.Y., to determine the prevalence and nature of mental health problems seen in their practices, the characteristics of the affected children, and the treatment provided to them. Of the 3,742 patients seen, 187, or 5.0%,were reported to have an emotional, behavioral, or school problem. The prevalence rate ranged from 1.4% to 7.8% by pediatrician, with five reporting rates within +/- 1.2% of the mean. High rates were associated with children in the 7 to 14 year age group (9.9%), those on Medicaid (8.6%), those who were not living with a father (10.9%), those whose presenting complaint was a chronic physical condition (11.7%), and children with a disease of the digestive system (16.7%) or with \"\"symptoms, signs and ill-defined conditions'' (14.3%). Functional impairment was reported to be moderate or severe in 40% of the 187 children with mental health problems. The most frequently reported problems (primary or otherwise) were adaptation reaction (22.5%), specific learning disorder (19.3%), hyperkinetic disorder (19.3%), psychosomatic disorder (12.8%), and conduct disorder (12.8%). The most frequent form of treatment provided was supportive therapy or counseling (85.6%) and suggestions regarding environmental changes (43.3%). Drugs were prescribed for 16.0% of the affected children, with 6.4% receiving methylphenidate or amphetamines. Referral for psychological care or consultation was made for 36.9%. The frequency of mental health problems observed by the pediatricians was about five times the annual rate of Monroe County children contacting a psychiatric inpatient or outpatient setting.", "PMID": 450528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9352", "title": "Difficulties in providing intensive care.", "content": "The results of a pilot project investigating the feelings, attitudes, and behavior of physicians working in a pediatric intensive care unit are presented. With recent technologic advances in out capacity to help patients suffering from catastrophic illness, various segments of American society have become concerned about the unrestricted use of medical science. Questions have arisen about the economic costs, long-term medical outcome, emotional costs to patients and families, legal problems, and ethical implications of \"heroic\" therapy. By contrast, we have asked relatively few questions about the social processes involved in providing intensive care. We know little about the emotional and functional responses of the physicians in critical care facilities, and their decision making processes remain obscure. This investigation evolved from the conviction that environments comprised of sophisticated medical technology and extensive life support systems pose pressing problems for those working and learning in them.", "contents": "Difficulties in providing intensive care. The results of a pilot project investigating the feelings, attitudes, and behavior of physicians working in a pediatric intensive care unit are presented. With recent technologic advances in out capacity to help patients suffering from catastrophic illness, various segments of American society have become concerned about the unrestricted use of medical science. Questions have arisen about the economic costs, long-term medical outcome, emotional costs to patients and families, legal problems, and ethical implications of \"heroic\" therapy. By contrast, we have asked relatively few questions about the social processes involved in providing intensive care. We know little about the emotional and functional responses of the physicians in critical care facilities, and their decision making processes remain obscure. This investigation evolved from the conviction that environments comprised of sophisticated medical technology and extensive life support systems pose pressing problems for those working and learning in them.", "PMID": 450538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9353", "title": "The influence of funding on the future of pediatric nurse practitioner programs.", "content": "Current funding sources threaten the future position of PNPs as providers of primary care. Most nurse practitioner programs of all disciplines including pediatrics rely for funds on the Division of Nursing, Bureau of Health Manpower, Department of Health, Education and Welfare. These funds are sufficient only for about half of currently operational programs and other sources of financing are not adequate to support the remainder. Another factor affecting the future of such programs is the trend to modify the preparation of the nurse practitioner from the clinically centered continuing education format to that based in schools of nursing and directed toward the MS degree. This is against the fundamental philosophy of the training of the PNP and will lead to diminishing participation of pediatricians in training programs. Unless there is evidence to show that the shift to graduate type education is fundamental to the competence of the nurse practitioner, the enthusiastic nurse who chooses to extend her professional skills should be allowed to do so without limiting this activity only to those who seek advanced academic degrees.", "contents": "The influence of funding on the future of pediatric nurse practitioner programs. Current funding sources threaten the future position of PNPs as providers of primary care. Most nurse practitioner programs of all disciplines including pediatrics rely for funds on the Division of Nursing, Bureau of Health Manpower, Department of Health, Education and Welfare. These funds are sufficient only for about half of currently operational programs and other sources of financing are not adequate to support the remainder. Another factor affecting the future of such programs is the trend to modify the preparation of the nurse practitioner from the clinically centered continuing education format to that based in schools of nursing and directed toward the MS degree. This is against the fundamental philosophy of the training of the PNP and will lead to diminishing participation of pediatricians in training programs. Unless there is evidence to show that the shift to graduate type education is fundamental to the competence of the nurse practitioner, the enthusiastic nurse who chooses to extend her professional skills should be allowed to do so without limiting this activity only to those who seek advanced academic degrees.", "PMID": 450539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9354", "title": "Guidelines for deciding care of critically ill or dying patients.", "content": "Medical technology is usually beneficial in the care of sick or injured persons, sometimes dramatically so. However, since it is often intrusive, occasionally cruel, sometimes of little or no value, and almost always expensive, its use must be assessed critically, particularly in ICUs. Guidelines for doing this are proposed. To ensure the most caring approach to patient care and family support, the values and autonomy of patients and their families, one by one, are emphasized in all decision making and the roles of nurses and social workers as well as those of physicians are considered central. If these guidelines are used, many, perhaps most, of the ethical and legal issues and the problems of human relationships in ICUs will be resolved.", "contents": "Guidelines for deciding care of critically ill or dying patients. Medical technology is usually beneficial in the care of sick or injured persons, sometimes dramatically so. However, since it is often intrusive, occasionally cruel, sometimes of little or no value, and almost always expensive, its use must be assessed critically, particularly in ICUs. Guidelines for doing this are proposed. To ensure the most caring approach to patient care and family support, the values and autonomy of patients and their families, one by one, are emphasized in all decision making and the roles of nurses and social workers as well as those of physicians are considered central. If these guidelines are used, many, perhaps most, of the ethical and legal issues and the problems of human relationships in ICUs will be resolved.", "PMID": 450555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9355", "title": "Relevance of the gestational age distribution of meconium passage in utero.", "content": "The incidence of meconium staining of the amniotic fluid among the admissions to a newborn special care unit was determined. Meconium staining of the amniotic fluid was present in 251 (7.5%) of 3,374 admissions. The majority of those with meconium staining (98.4%) was of 37 weeks gestation or greater and none was less than 34 weeks gestation. The possible relevance of this gestational age distribution is discussed.", "contents": "Relevance of the gestational age distribution of meconium passage in utero. The incidence of meconium staining of the amniotic fluid among the admissions to a newborn special care unit was determined. Meconium staining of the amniotic fluid was present in 251 (7.5%) of 3,374 admissions. The majority of those with meconium staining (98.4%) was of 37 weeks gestation or greater and none was less than 34 weeks gestation. The possible relevance of this gestational age distribution is discussed.", "PMID": 450556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9356", "title": "Nasal septal trauma in children.", "content": "If the septal component of a nasal injury is adequately managed, usually the entire nasal injury will be well managed. Major or minor nasal trauma can cause cartilage fracture, deviation, dislocation, hematoma, or abscess formation, and the various associated sequelae, some of them life-threatening. A negative x-ray report should never be used as a substitute for a complete intranasal examination in any child with nasal trauma. Any nasal abnormality should be referred for immediate evaluation and treatment.", "contents": "Nasal septal trauma in children. If the septal component of a nasal injury is adequately managed, usually the entire nasal injury will be well managed. Major or minor nasal trauma can cause cartilage fracture, deviation, dislocation, hematoma, or abscess formation, and the various associated sequelae, some of them life-threatening. A negative x-ray report should never be used as a substitute for a complete intranasal examination in any child with nasal trauma. Any nasal abnormality should be referred for immediate evaluation and treatment.", "PMID": 450557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9357", "title": "Posterior fossa hemorrhage in the term newborn: report of two cases.", "content": "Two term newborn infants born by frank breech delivery had posterior fossa hemorrhage diagnosed by CT scan within the first 72 hours of life and underwent successful surgical drainage of hematoma. Previously reported cases with long-term postoperative survival have included 12 term newborns with good outcome in nine. Most remaining reported examples of posterior fossa hemorrhage in newborns have been from autopsy reports on premature infants. It is suggested that operative intervention is often indicated in cases of early neonatal posterior fossa hemorrhage and that additional data on long-term outcome of operative intervention as well as outcome in nonoperated cases are needed. One of the two cases reported here and one previously reported presented with onset of seizures as the initial clinical manifestation.", "contents": "Posterior fossa hemorrhage in the term newborn: report of two cases. Two term newborn infants born by frank breech delivery had posterior fossa hemorrhage diagnosed by CT scan within the first 72 hours of life and underwent successful surgical drainage of hematoma. Previously reported cases with long-term postoperative survival have included 12 term newborns with good outcome in nine. Most remaining reported examples of posterior fossa hemorrhage in newborns have been from autopsy reports on premature infants. It is suggested that operative intervention is often indicated in cases of early neonatal posterior fossa hemorrhage and that additional data on long-term outcome of operative intervention as well as outcome in nonoperated cases are needed. One of the two cases reported here and one previously reported presented with onset of seizures as the initial clinical manifestation.", "PMID": 450558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9358", "title": "Inaccuracy of the Clinitemp skin thermometer.", "content": "The Clinitemp Fever Detector (Clinitemp) is a newly marketed thermometer consisting of plasticencased thermophototropic esters of cholesterol that change color over a specific short-range of temperature. The manufacturer states that the instrument can identify fever by measuring skin temperature in children. On the basis of a patient's report of one inaccurate Clinitemp, we undertook to investigate the accuracy of this thermometer. One hundred fifty-two children presenting to the Children's Hospital Emergency Room had their temperature taken with two thermometers, an electronic thermometer that had been checked for accuracy with a National Bureau of Standards thermometer and the Clinitemp. Clinitemps, purchased over a two-month period from three pharmacies, were tested on different children. Thirteen of thirty children (43%) with fever (rectal temperature greater than or equal to 38.3 C (101 F) or oral temperature greater than or equal to (37.8 C) (100 F) identified by the electronic thermometer, were correctly classified as having fever using the Clinitemp. When fever was defined to include children with a rectal temperature greater than or equal to 38.0 C (100.5 F) or an oral temperature of greater than or equal to 37.4 C (99.5 F), the Clinitemp correctly identified 13 (32.5%) of 40 children with fever. There appears to be an appreciable risk that someone with a serious illness may delay seeking medical attention on the basis of a normal temperature as measured by the Clinitemp.", "contents": "Inaccuracy of the Clinitemp skin thermometer. The Clinitemp Fever Detector (Clinitemp) is a newly marketed thermometer consisting of plasticencased thermophototropic esters of cholesterol that change color over a specific short-range of temperature. The manufacturer states that the instrument can identify fever by measuring skin temperature in children. On the basis of a patient's report of one inaccurate Clinitemp, we undertook to investigate the accuracy of this thermometer. One hundred fifty-two children presenting to the Children's Hospital Emergency Room had their temperature taken with two thermometers, an electronic thermometer that had been checked for accuracy with a National Bureau of Standards thermometer and the Clinitemp. Clinitemps, purchased over a two-month period from three pharmacies, were tested on different children. Thirteen of thirty children (43%) with fever (rectal temperature greater than or equal to 38.3 C (101 F) or oral temperature greater than or equal to (37.8 C) (100 F) identified by the electronic thermometer, were correctly classified as having fever using the Clinitemp. When fever was defined to include children with a rectal temperature greater than or equal to 38.0 C (100.5 F) or an oral temperature of greater than or equal to 37.4 C (99.5 F), the Clinitemp correctly identified 13 (32.5%) of 40 children with fever. There appears to be an appreciable risk that someone with a serious illness may delay seeking medical attention on the basis of a normal temperature as measured by the Clinitemp.", "PMID": 450559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9359", "title": "Recurrent abdominal pain in children: lactose and sucrose intolerance, a prospective study.", "content": "Thirty-eight consecutive children with recurrent abdominal pain underwent lactose tolerance tests; 28 of these were also given sucrose tolerance tests. Abdominal pain and abnormal lactose tolerance tests were noted in 11 of 38, while none of the 28 had an abnormal sucrose tolerance test; however, 1 had abdominal pain. Elimination diet for 4 weeks produced significant or total pain relief in 10 of 11 (lactose free) and 0 of 1 children (sucrose free). Lactose intolerance seems to play a contributory role in recurrent abdominal pain in children, while sucrose intolerance does not.", "contents": "Recurrent abdominal pain in children: lactose and sucrose intolerance, a prospective study. Thirty-eight consecutive children with recurrent abdominal pain underwent lactose tolerance tests; 28 of these were also given sucrose tolerance tests. Abdominal pain and abnormal lactose tolerance tests were noted in 11 of 38, while none of the 28 had an abnormal sucrose tolerance test; however, 1 had abdominal pain. Elimination diet for 4 weeks produced significant or total pain relief in 10 of 11 (lactose free) and 0 of 1 children (sucrose free). Lactose intolerance seems to play a contributory role in recurrent abdominal pain in children, while sucrose intolerance does not.", "PMID": 450560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9360", "title": "Negative effects of oral fatty acid supplementation on sweat chloride in cystic fibrosis.", "content": "Essential fatty acid supplementation with oral safflower oil (1 gm/kg/day) to 11 cystic fibrosis patients (aged 6 months to 14 years) for one year produced no significant change in sweat chloride concentration (mEq/liter) or sweat rate (gm/min/m2), Addition of vitamin E (10 mg/kg/day) to the safflower oil had no effect on sweat chloride concentration or rate compared to placebo. No clinical improvement could be detected compared to a control group. These results do not support previous reports of the effects of fatty acid supplementation on sweat electrolyte concentrations in cystic fibrosis.", "contents": "Negative effects of oral fatty acid supplementation on sweat chloride in cystic fibrosis. Essential fatty acid supplementation with oral safflower oil (1 gm/kg/day) to 11 cystic fibrosis patients (aged 6 months to 14 years) for one year produced no significant change in sweat chloride concentration (mEq/liter) or sweat rate (gm/min/m2), Addition of vitamin E (10 mg/kg/day) to the safflower oil had no effect on sweat chloride concentration or rate compared to placebo. No clinical improvement could be detected compared to a control group. These results do not support previous reports of the effects of fatty acid supplementation on sweat electrolyte concentrations in cystic fibrosis.", "PMID": 450561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9361", "title": "Diagnosis of neonatal bacterial infection: hematologic and pathologic findings in fatal and nonfatal cases.", "content": "Consecutive newborn autopsy cases were divided into infected and noninfected groups on the basis of pathologic findings and cultures, and were compared to a concomitant consecutive group of neonatal survivors with proven bacterial sepsis. Newborns dying with bacterial infection often demonstrated leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia, usually associated with normal bone marrow cell production. Those with nonfatal sepsis frequently had neutrophilia with an increase in absolute band counts. Of infected newborns 80% showed one or more hematologic abnormalities as did 43% of newborns dying without bacterial infection. Of newborns dying with bacterial infection 13% had no hematologic abnormality. Blood cultures were negative in 18% (seven) of the infants dying with bacterial infection. Abnormalities of the white blood cell, differential and platelet counts are not invariably specific for bacterial infection nor do normal values adequately exclude it. Blood cultures may be negative in newborns dying with significant foci of bacterial infection.", "contents": "Diagnosis of neonatal bacterial infection: hematologic and pathologic findings in fatal and nonfatal cases. Consecutive newborn autopsy cases were divided into infected and noninfected groups on the basis of pathologic findings and cultures, and were compared to a concomitant consecutive group of neonatal survivors with proven bacterial sepsis. Newborns dying with bacterial infection often demonstrated leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia, usually associated with normal bone marrow cell production. Those with nonfatal sepsis frequently had neutrophilia with an increase in absolute band counts. Of infected newborns 80% showed one or more hematologic abnormalities as did 43% of newborns dying without bacterial infection. Of newborns dying with bacterial infection 13% had no hematologic abnormality. Blood cultures were negative in 18% (seven) of the infants dying with bacterial infection. Abnormalities of the white blood cell, differential and platelet counts are not invariably specific for bacterial infection nor do normal values adequately exclude it. Blood cultures may be negative in newborns dying with significant foci of bacterial infection.", "PMID": 450562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9362", "title": "Bathtub drownings: report of seven cases.", "content": "The domestic bathtub is an important site for infant drownings. A total population study of drowning and near-drowning accidents involving Honolulu infants has enabled the risks to be specified with greater detail. A series of seven consecutive bathtub immersion accidents is presented. The \"at risk\" profile comprises highly mobile families of lower socioeconomic status; usually younger siblings in larger families are involved and often the father had immediate care of the infant at the time of the accident. Another case of bathtub immersion as a form of nonaccidental injury is described. In five of the other six cases reported, the drowned child was left attended by an older sibling. Preventive strategies are discussed.", "contents": "Bathtub drownings: report of seven cases. The domestic bathtub is an important site for infant drownings. A total population study of drowning and near-drowning accidents involving Honolulu infants has enabled the risks to be specified with greater detail. A series of seven consecutive bathtub immersion accidents is presented. The \"at risk\" profile comprises highly mobile families of lower socioeconomic status; usually younger siblings in larger families are involved and often the father had immediate care of the infant at the time of the accident. Another case of bathtub immersion as a form of nonaccidental injury is described. In five of the other six cases reported, the drowned child was left attended by an older sibling. Preventive strategies are discussed.", "PMID": 450563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9363", "title": "The \"In-Training Examination\" of the American Board of Pediatrics: does it test for \"new\" or \"old\" information?", "content": "The American Board of Pediatrics In-Training Examination or \"Pre-Test\" is not in widespread use as a means of evaluating the cognitive knowledge and problem-solving skills of hourse officers. The examination is modeled after the certifying examination of the American Board of Pediatrics. The 1977 Pre-Test was analyzed in an attempt to determine whether awareness of recent medical knowledge was required to pass this examination. The 7th through 10th editions of the Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics were used as a reference source. These editions represent information that is from 5 to at least 20 years of age. Analysis of the 190 items revealed that the correct answer was known for 148 or 78% of the questions at least 20 years ago. These results suggest that the Pre-Test, and presumably the American Board of Pediatrics certifying exam, measures the candidates' knowledge of long-standing core information.", "contents": "The \"In-Training Examination\" of the American Board of Pediatrics: does it test for \"new\" or \"old\" information? The American Board of Pediatrics In-Training Examination or \"Pre-Test\" is not in widespread use as a means of evaluating the cognitive knowledge and problem-solving skills of hourse officers. The examination is modeled after the certifying examination of the American Board of Pediatrics. The 1977 Pre-Test was analyzed in an attempt to determine whether awareness of recent medical knowledge was required to pass this examination. The 7th through 10th editions of the Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics were used as a reference source. These editions represent information that is from 5 to at least 20 years of age. Analysis of the 190 items revealed that the correct answer was known for 148 or 78% of the questions at least 20 years ago. These results suggest that the Pre-Test, and presumably the American Board of Pediatrics certifying exam, measures the candidates' knowledge of long-standing core information.", "PMID": 450564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9364", "title": "Aflatoxin B1; its role in the etiology of Reye's syndrome.", "content": "Seven cases of Reye's syndrome in which aflatoxin B1 was isolated from the blood or liver or both are presented. In two cases aflatoxin B1 was found in the blood during the acute phase of the disease; a finding not previously reported. In six cases aflatoxin B1 was recovered from autopsy specimens of liver. A number of case reports linking aflatoxin B1 to Reye's syndrome have appeared in the literature but until now only one case had been reported from the United States. Aflatoxin B1 and its possible role in the etiology of Reye's syndrome is discussed. It is concluded that Reye's syndrome is the result of multiple interrelated factors.", "contents": "Aflatoxin B1; its role in the etiology of Reye's syndrome. Seven cases of Reye's syndrome in which aflatoxin B1 was isolated from the blood or liver or both are presented. In two cases aflatoxin B1 was found in the blood during the acute phase of the disease; a finding not previously reported. In six cases aflatoxin B1 was recovered from autopsy specimens of liver. A number of case reports linking aflatoxin B1 to Reye's syndrome have appeared in the literature but until now only one case had been reported from the United States. Aflatoxin B1 and its possible role in the etiology of Reye's syndrome is discussed. It is concluded that Reye's syndrome is the result of multiple interrelated factors.", "PMID": 450565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9365", "title": "Evidence for hypertyraminemia in Reye's syndrome.", "content": "Utilizing a specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay, palsma and urine tyramine were measured in 14 consecutive patients with liver biopsy-proven Reye's syndrome. Plasma tyrosine was measured in 11 of these patients. The results revealed significant (P less than .003) elevation in plasma (3.4 +/- .52 ng/ml) (mean +/- SEM) and urine (1.00 +/- .26 mg/24 hr) tyramine as well as plasma tyrosine (204 +/- 52.5 mumole/liter) at the onset of the disease when compared to the levels of tyramine and tyrosine in a group of hospitalized patients without hepatic disorders. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between plasma tyramine and days in coma (r = .86; P less than .001), and between plasma tyramine and tyrosine (r = 0.80; P less than .001). These data suggest that there is s substantial disturbance of tyrosine metabolism in Reye's syndrome and that the accumulation of this amino acid and its metabolite, tyramine, may contribute to the encephalopathy of this disease.", "contents": "Evidence for hypertyraminemia in Reye's syndrome. Utilizing a specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay, palsma and urine tyramine were measured in 14 consecutive patients with liver biopsy-proven Reye's syndrome. Plasma tyrosine was measured in 11 of these patients. The results revealed significant (P less than .003) elevation in plasma (3.4 +/- .52 ng/ml) (mean +/- SEM) and urine (1.00 +/- .26 mg/24 hr) tyramine as well as plasma tyrosine (204 +/- 52.5 mumole/liter) at the onset of the disease when compared to the levels of tyramine and tyrosine in a group of hospitalized patients without hepatic disorders. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between plasma tyramine and days in coma (r = .86; P less than .001), and between plasma tyramine and tyrosine (r = 0.80; P less than .001). These data suggest that there is s substantial disturbance of tyrosine metabolism in Reye's syndrome and that the accumulation of this amino acid and its metabolite, tyramine, may contribute to the encephalopathy of this disease.", "PMID": 450566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9366", "title": "Correlations between appointment keeping and reorganization of hospital ambulatory pediatric services.", "content": "Over a period of 13 months before and after a university-affiliated hospital's daytime ambulatory pediatric facility was upgraded from an episodic care clinic to a primary care unit, 260 subjects were interviewed in an attempt to predict compliance with return appointment scheduling. The parents of patients more than 10 years of age were the least compliant, but most of the differences in compliance appeared due to the subject's evaluation of the diagnostic ability, thoroughness, and sympathy of the physician at the initial visit. Although no changes were noted in the subjects' demographic characteristics or in their general opinions of ambulatory health care delivery or of attitudes desired of physicians, their evaluations of recent visits improved and the missed appointment rate declined by 46% in the course of the study. Moreover, the pediatric house officers, who evaluated the patients, demonstrated an increased ability to assess the characteristics the subjects found important in physicians. Improvements are still needed, especially in the amount of communication between house officers, patients, and parents, but heeding clients' opinions about the provision of primary health care may help to make missed appointment rates negligible.", "contents": "Correlations between appointment keeping and reorganization of hospital ambulatory pediatric services. Over a period of 13 months before and after a university-affiliated hospital's daytime ambulatory pediatric facility was upgraded from an episodic care clinic to a primary care unit, 260 subjects were interviewed in an attempt to predict compliance with return appointment scheduling. The parents of patients more than 10 years of age were the least compliant, but most of the differences in compliance appeared due to the subject's evaluation of the diagnostic ability, thoroughness, and sympathy of the physician at the initial visit. Although no changes were noted in the subjects' demographic characteristics or in their general opinions of ambulatory health care delivery or of attitudes desired of physicians, their evaluations of recent visits improved and the missed appointment rate declined by 46% in the course of the study. Moreover, the pediatric house officers, who evaluated the patients, demonstrated an increased ability to assess the characteristics the subjects found important in physicians. Improvements are still needed, especially in the amount of communication between house officers, patients, and parents, but heeding clients' opinions about the provision of primary health care may help to make missed appointment rates negligible.", "PMID": 450567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9367", "title": "Myiasis presenting as cellulitis of the cheek.", "content": "A case of myiasis due to the northern cattle grub (Hypoderma bovis) in a 2 1/2-year-old girl presenting as cellulitis of the cheek and periorbital cellulitis is detailed in this report. A literature review of similar cases reported over the past five years is included.", "contents": "Myiasis presenting as cellulitis of the cheek. A case of myiasis due to the northern cattle grub (Hypoderma bovis) in a 2 1/2-year-old girl presenting as cellulitis of the cheek and periorbital cellulitis is detailed in this report. A literature review of similar cases reported over the past five years is included.", "PMID": 450568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9368", "title": "Polyneuropathy in childhood.", "content": "Polyneuropathy is an uncommon neurologic disorder that occurs in childhood. An evaluation of 61 patients over a period of seven years showed the Guillain-Barr\u00e9 syndrome and degenerative polyneuropathies to be the most common diagnoses. Other etiologies included metabolic, toxic, and neuropathies associated with systemic diseases. A group of idiopathic neuropathies was identified in which an unusual finding was a large subgroup of children with chronic or progressive central nervous system disease.", "contents": "Polyneuropathy in childhood. Polyneuropathy is an uncommon neurologic disorder that occurs in childhood. An evaluation of 61 patients over a period of seven years showed the Guillain-Barr\u00e9 syndrome and degenerative polyneuropathies to be the most common diagnoses. Other etiologies included metabolic, toxic, and neuropathies associated with systemic diseases. A group of idiopathic neuropathies was identified in which an unusual finding was a large subgroup of children with chronic or progressive central nervous system disease.", "PMID": 450571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9369", "title": "Hyperactivity and related behavioral characteristics in a sample of learning disabled children.", "content": "64 learning disabled and 12 minimal brain-damaged children were evaluated by their teachers on 11 categories of behavior. Analysis showed that behavioral characteristics associated with hyperactivity did not differentiate among subjects. Teachers rated poor motor coordination as the outstanding trait of this sample.", "contents": "Hyperactivity and related behavioral characteristics in a sample of learning disabled children. 64 learning disabled and 12 minimal brain-damaged children were evaluated by their teachers on 11 categories of behavior. Analysis showed that behavioral characteristics associated with hyperactivity did not differentiate among subjects. Teachers rated poor motor coordination as the outstanding trait of this sample.", "PMID": 450603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9370", "title": "Reaction time and visual brightness: within-subject correlations.", "content": "An experiment was conducted to compare visual reaction time and visual brightness within the same subjects. Simple reaction times and magnitude estimates of brightness were obtained in response to 1000-msec. flashes of 60.7, 67.5, 76.4, 85.1, and 93.4 dB re 10(-10)L white light. The relationship between reaction time and stimulus intensity was best described by a negative logarithmic function, while the relationship between magnitude estimates of brightness and stimulus intensity was best described by a power function. Linear correlations between reaction times and magnitude estimates indicated that visual reaction time and brightness are not proportional within all subjects. Previous reports of proportionality between these two measures were discussed as possibly being the result of inappropriate cross-experiment comparisons.", "contents": "Reaction time and visual brightness: within-subject correlations. An experiment was conducted to compare visual reaction time and visual brightness within the same subjects. Simple reaction times and magnitude estimates of brightness were obtained in response to 1000-msec. flashes of 60.7, 67.5, 76.4, 85.1, and 93.4 dB re 10(-10)L white light. The relationship between reaction time and stimulus intensity was best described by a negative logarithmic function, while the relationship between magnitude estimates of brightness and stimulus intensity was best described by a power function. Linear correlations between reaction times and magnitude estimates indicated that visual reaction time and brightness are not proportional within all subjects. Previous reports of proportionality between these two measures were discussed as possibly being the result of inappropriate cross-experiment comparisons.", "PMID": 450604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9371", "title": "Influence of movement activities on shape recognition and retention.", "content": "Three groups of 4-yr.-old children were asked to complete a form perception assessment instrument prior to, 1 hr. after, and 1 wk. following a treatment. Group 1 participated in a movement-based form perception program, while Group 2 was instructed using a traditional classroom method. A third group which acted as control participated in unrelated movement activities. A repeated-measures analysis of variance gave a main effect of tests and an interaction of groups X tests. Group 2 displayed significantly higher performance on the posttest than Group 1; however, after 7 wk. the performance of Group 2 had decreased to a level below that of Groups 1 and 3, which remained stable.", "contents": "Influence of movement activities on shape recognition and retention. Three groups of 4-yr.-old children were asked to complete a form perception assessment instrument prior to, 1 hr. after, and 1 wk. following a treatment. Group 1 participated in a movement-based form perception program, while Group 2 was instructed using a traditional classroom method. A third group which acted as control participated in unrelated movement activities. A repeated-measures analysis of variance gave a main effect of tests and an interaction of groups X tests. Group 2 displayed significantly higher performance on the posttest than Group 1; however, after 7 wk. the performance of Group 2 had decreased to a level below that of Groups 1 and 3, which remained stable.", "PMID": 450605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9372", "title": "Facial expressive cues in person perception.", "content": "The effect of facial expressions on estimates of the likelihood that a person will again commit an offense for which he has been arrested was studied. Such information did not affect estimates of 34 male and 36 female undergraduates as much as did the objective information provided about the offense. The results suggest directions for research on the role of facial expressions in interpersonal judgments.", "contents": "Facial expressive cues in person perception. The effect of facial expressions on estimates of the likelihood that a person will again commit an offense for which he has been arrested was studied. Such information did not affect estimates of 34 male and 36 female undergraduates as much as did the objective information provided about the offense. The results suggest directions for research on the role of facial expressions in interpersonal judgments.", "PMID": 450606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9373", "title": "Primary grade children's memory for parts of speech.", "content": "Developmental differences in elementary school (kindergarten, first and second grade) children's free recall for parts of speech were investigated using sentences with normal and scrambled word order. The children were presented four sentences with normal syntax and four sentences with scrambled word order. There were significant effects of age, syntax, and rate of presentation; these replicated previous research. The unusual finding was that the kindergarten children, when presented with scrambled word strings, recalled more verbs than either the first or second grade children. It was hypothesized that this occurred because either the kindergarten children failed to detect the scrambled nature of syntaxless strings, or there is a change in the comprehension strategies which de-emphasizes the role of the verb.", "contents": "Primary grade children's memory for parts of speech. Developmental differences in elementary school (kindergarten, first and second grade) children's free recall for parts of speech were investigated using sentences with normal and scrambled word order. The children were presented four sentences with normal syntax and four sentences with scrambled word order. There were significant effects of age, syntax, and rate of presentation; these replicated previous research. The unusual finding was that the kindergarten children, when presented with scrambled word strings, recalled more verbs than either the first or second grade children. It was hypothesized that this occurred because either the kindergarten children failed to detect the scrambled nature of syntaxless strings, or there is a change in the comprehension strategies which de-emphasizes the role of the verb.", "PMID": 450607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9374", "title": "WAIS test-retest reliability for a clinical out-patient sample.", "content": "WAIS test-retest reliabilities were calculated for a clinical out-patient sample with testing intervals varying from 1 to 10 yr. There was no relationship between test-retest interval and the stability of test scores and the correlations between IQs were quite satisfactory (Full Scale IQ = .897, Verbal IQ = .906, Performance IQ = .876). Reliabilities remained high even when the sample was divided by diagnosis into organic, neurotic, personality disorder, and schizophrenic subgroups.", "contents": "WAIS test-retest reliability for a clinical out-patient sample. WAIS test-retest reliabilities were calculated for a clinical out-patient sample with testing intervals varying from 1 to 10 yr. There was no relationship between test-retest interval and the stability of test scores and the correlations between IQs were quite satisfactory (Full Scale IQ = .897, Verbal IQ = .906, Performance IQ = .876). Reliabilities remained high even when the sample was divided by diagnosis into organic, neurotic, personality disorder, and schizophrenic subgroups.", "PMID": 450608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9375", "title": "Reliability of the Finger Tapping Test and a note on sex differences.", "content": "The reliability of the Finger Tapping Test was investigated in two studies. In the test-retest condition 30 male and 30 female college students were tested twice by the same examiner. In the inter-examiner condition 30 male and 30 female college students were tested once by each of two examiners. Reliability coefficients for the dominant and nondominant hands were high in both studies (about .8), as contrasted with that of the ratio score (about .5), casting doubt on the use of the ratio score to lateralize impairment. Significant sex differences (males about 3 taps faster) were found, calling into question the use of single test interpretation schemes. Slight inter-examiner differences in mean scores were also detected.", "contents": "Reliability of the Finger Tapping Test and a note on sex differences. The reliability of the Finger Tapping Test was investigated in two studies. In the test-retest condition 30 male and 30 female college students were tested twice by the same examiner. In the inter-examiner condition 30 male and 30 female college students were tested once by each of two examiners. Reliability coefficients for the dominant and nondominant hands were high in both studies (about .8), as contrasted with that of the ratio score (about .5), casting doubt on the use of the ratio score to lateralize impairment. Significant sex differences (males about 3 taps faster) were found, calling into question the use of single test interpretation schemes. Slight inter-examiner differences in mean scores were also detected.", "PMID": 450609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9376", "title": "Duration of the motion aftereffect as a function of retinal locus and visual field.", "content": "The duration of the aftereffect induced by viewing a rotating disc was recorded separately for the four hemiretinae of the left and right eyes using a new method of measurement. The results showed duration of aftereffect to differ between nasal and temporal hemiretinae of the right eye and between left and right cerebral hemispheres.", "contents": "Duration of the motion aftereffect as a function of retinal locus and visual field. The duration of the aftereffect induced by viewing a rotating disc was recorded separately for the four hemiretinae of the left and right eyes using a new method of measurement. The results showed duration of aftereffect to differ between nasal and temporal hemiretinae of the right eye and between left and right cerebral hemispheres.", "PMID": 450610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9377", "title": "The Babcock Story Recall of behaviorally disordered children scoring high or low on extraversion.", "content": "Short-term memory for a meaningful story was studied in 47 learning disordered boys and 34 girls aged 5 through 10 yr. 11 mo. High and low scores on Extraversion predicted differences in mean scores on verbatim Immediate and Delayed Recall of the Babcock Story.", "contents": "The Babcock Story Recall of behaviorally disordered children scoring high or low on extraversion. Short-term memory for a meaningful story was studied in 47 learning disordered boys and 34 girls aged 5 through 10 yr. 11 mo. High and low scores on Extraversion predicted differences in mean scores on verbatim Immediate and Delayed Recall of the Babcock Story.", "PMID": 450613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9378", "title": "Role of familiar size in spatial judgments under natural viewing conditions.", "content": "The purpose of the present experiment was to examine the role of familiar size in judgments of size and egocentric distance under natural (non-reduced) viewing conditions. Independent groups (ns = 14) judged normal and large off-size chairs and control objects presented at a distance of 25.6 m. Subjects also judged the size of unfamiliar objects (adjacent stimuli) attached to the chairs and stakes. The results indicate that the effects of familiar size are specific to spatial judgments of the familiar object itself since judgments of the adjacent stimuli were unaffected by familiar size.", "contents": "Role of familiar size in spatial judgments under natural viewing conditions. The purpose of the present experiment was to examine the role of familiar size in judgments of size and egocentric distance under natural (non-reduced) viewing conditions. Independent groups (ns = 14) judged normal and large off-size chairs and control objects presented at a distance of 25.6 m. Subjects also judged the size of unfamiliar objects (adjacent stimuli) attached to the chairs and stakes. The results indicate that the effects of familiar size are specific to spatial judgments of the familiar object itself since judgments of the adjacent stimuli were unaffected by familiar size.", "PMID": 450614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9379", "title": "Temporal and intensitive factors in comparative judgments of tactile space.", "content": "Temporal imbalances between the successive stimulation of pairs of loci on each forearm altered judgments of the equality of the spatial extents between sets of loci. The spatial judgments became increasingly inaccurate as the temporal imbalance was increased, i.e., the Tau effect. Changes in stimulus intensity also influenced the dependency of spatial judgments on temporal factors. The data suggest that concomitant variations of spatial, temporal, and intensitive components of a vibrotactile stimulus \"package\" can produce systematic perceptual effects of potential significance in the design of vibrotactile sensory substitution systems.", "contents": "Temporal and intensitive factors in comparative judgments of tactile space. Temporal imbalances between the successive stimulation of pairs of loci on each forearm altered judgments of the equality of the spatial extents between sets of loci. The spatial judgments became increasingly inaccurate as the temporal imbalance was increased, i.e., the Tau effect. Changes in stimulus intensity also influenced the dependency of spatial judgments on temporal factors. The data suggest that concomitant variations of spatial, temporal, and intensitive components of a vibrotactile stimulus \"package\" can produce systematic perceptual effects of potential significance in the design of vibrotactile sensory substitution systems.", "PMID": 450615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9380", "title": "Residual sensory capacities of the deaf: a signal detection analysis of a visual discrimination task.", "content": "This experiment compared the visual sensory sensitivity of deaf and hearing subjects in a signal detection paradigm. Subjects (ns = 6) were required to give forced-choice responses to a brightness discrimination task under three stimulus probability conditions (0.25, 0.50, and 0.75). A total of 1,800 trials were given to each subject and utilized to construct isosensitivity functions and d' and Beta, indices for sensory sensitivity and response bias, respectively. The results showed that no enhanced sensory sensitivity is present for these deaf children and questions the classical sensory compensation hypothesis. Furthermore, the deaf subjects responded in a relatively bias-free manner to variations in stimulus probability.", "contents": "Residual sensory capacities of the deaf: a signal detection analysis of a visual discrimination task. This experiment compared the visual sensory sensitivity of deaf and hearing subjects in a signal detection paradigm. Subjects (ns = 6) were required to give forced-choice responses to a brightness discrimination task under three stimulus probability conditions (0.25, 0.50, and 0.75). A total of 1,800 trials were given to each subject and utilized to construct isosensitivity functions and d' and Beta, indices for sensory sensitivity and response bias, respectively. The results showed that no enhanced sensory sensitivity is present for these deaf children and questions the classical sensory compensation hypothesis. Furthermore, the deaf subjects responded in a relatively bias-free manner to variations in stimulus probability.", "PMID": 450616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9381", "title": "Influence of cognitive style on an incidental memory task.", "content": "The present study investigated the interaction between cognitive style, imagery, and memory. The Tactual Performance Test Location Score from the Halstead-Reitan battery was used as a measure of incidental tactual memory and mental imagery. The Group Embedded Figures Test was used to assess cognitive style. Results for 38 Caucasian males of mean age 49.9 yr. suggest that cognitive style is related to an individual's ability to perform a non-verbal, non-visual memory task. Further, cognitive style may be an important mediating variable influencing intrapersonal behaviors such as non-verbal memory and mental imagery.", "contents": "Influence of cognitive style on an incidental memory task. The present study investigated the interaction between cognitive style, imagery, and memory. The Tactual Performance Test Location Score from the Halstead-Reitan battery was used as a measure of incidental tactual memory and mental imagery. The Group Embedded Figures Test was used to assess cognitive style. Results for 38 Caucasian males of mean age 49.9 yr. suggest that cognitive style is related to an individual's ability to perform a non-verbal, non-visual memory task. Further, cognitive style may be an important mediating variable influencing intrapersonal behaviors such as non-verbal memory and mental imagery.", "PMID": 450617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9382", "title": "Some aspects of sleep disturbance in coronary patients.", "content": "Of 42 coronary care patients studied during 10 hr. of polygraphically recorded sleep, 28 were in an open-ward coronary care unit and 14 were in a semi-private telemetry unit. The observed sleep disturbances were not a function of type of unit, length of hospitalization, sex, or medications. Sleep was significantly less fragmented in those patients judged less severe in pathology. These results indicate that alterations in normal sleep patterns occur routinely within coronary care environments, even in the absence of disturbing environmental stimuli and suggest that a closer analysis be made of sleep in these settings in light of the known relationships between sleep and cardiac function.", "contents": "Some aspects of sleep disturbance in coronary patients. Of 42 coronary care patients studied during 10 hr. of polygraphically recorded sleep, 28 were in an open-ward coronary care unit and 14 were in a semi-private telemetry unit. The observed sleep disturbances were not a function of type of unit, length of hospitalization, sex, or medications. Sleep was significantly less fragmented in those patients judged less severe in pathology. These results indicate that alterations in normal sleep patterns occur routinely within coronary care environments, even in the absence of disturbing environmental stimuli and suggest that a closer analysis be made of sleep in these settings in light of the known relationships between sleep and cardiac function.", "PMID": 450618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9383", "title": "Hand movements and nondominant fluency in bilinguals.", "content": "16 subordinate bilingual subjects produced 5-min. monologues in their nondominant languages, i.e., English or Spanish. Hand-movement activity manifested during the videotape monologues was scored and related to measures of fluency in the nondominant language. The hand-movement behavior categorized as Groping Movement was significantly related to all of the nondominant-language fluency measures. These correlations support the assumption that Groping Movement may have a function in the process of verbal encoding. The results are discussed in terms of the possibility of monitoring central cognitive processes through the study of \"visible\" motor behavior.", "contents": "Hand movements and nondominant fluency in bilinguals. 16 subordinate bilingual subjects produced 5-min. monologues in their nondominant languages, i.e., English or Spanish. Hand-movement activity manifested during the videotape monologues was scored and related to measures of fluency in the nondominant language. The hand-movement behavior categorized as Groping Movement was significantly related to all of the nondominant-language fluency measures. These correlations support the assumption that Groping Movement may have a function in the process of verbal encoding. The results are discussed in terms of the possibility of monitoring central cognitive processes through the study of \"visible\" motor behavior.", "PMID": 450620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9384", "title": "Effects of left-right orientation and position reversals on spatial perspective taking in young children.", "content": "50 boys and 50 girls, from Grades K through 4, were presented with 180 degrees perspective-taking tasks that varied arrays in terms of the number of front-back and left-right orientation reversals and left-right position reversals. Results confirmed existing evidence that left-right orientation reversals are more difficult than front-back orientation reversals in arrays of one object. However, with arrays of two objects, left-right orientation reversals appear easier than front-back orientation reversals, apparently because of the relationship between the objects.", "contents": "Effects of left-right orientation and position reversals on spatial perspective taking in young children. 50 boys and 50 girls, from Grades K through 4, were presented with 180 degrees perspective-taking tasks that varied arrays in terms of the number of front-back and left-right orientation reversals and left-right position reversals. Results confirmed existing evidence that left-right orientation reversals are more difficult than front-back orientation reversals in arrays of one object. However, with arrays of two objects, left-right orientation reversals appear easier than front-back orientation reversals, apparently because of the relationship between the objects.", "PMID": 450622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9385", "title": "Effects of chromatic targets on a throwing task for subjects referred for learning disability.", "content": "The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of chromatic and achromatic targets on performing a throwing task for subjects referred for learning disability. 20 boys referred to the Perceptual Motor Development Center practiced under achromatic or chromatic target conditions. After 5 practice bouts, each subject immediately performed on the opposite condition. When subjects were aware of chromatic and achromatic target alternatives, chromatic targets facilitated performance.", "contents": "Effects of chromatic targets on a throwing task for subjects referred for learning disability. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of chromatic and achromatic targets on performing a throwing task for subjects referred for learning disability. 20 boys referred to the Perceptual Motor Development Center practiced under achromatic or chromatic target conditions. After 5 practice bouts, each subject immediately performed on the opposite condition. When subjects were aware of chromatic and achromatic target alternatives, chromatic targets facilitated performance.", "PMID": 450624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9386", "title": "Factorial pattern description and comparison of functional abilities in neuropsychological assessment.", "content": "A principal factor analysis of 36 neuropsychological test variables yielded eight readily definable factors. These factors represent the kinds of general functions evaluated in the assessment of organic brain damage. The functional categorical scheme produced by the factor analysis was compared with other empirical and theoretical schemes. Shortcomings of the traditional neuropsychological battery were discussed in terms of the factors.", "contents": "Factorial pattern description and comparison of functional abilities in neuropsychological assessment. A principal factor analysis of 36 neuropsychological test variables yielded eight readily definable factors. These factors represent the kinds of general functions evaluated in the assessment of organic brain damage. The functional categorical scheme produced by the factor analysis was compared with other empirical and theoretical schemes. Shortcomings of the traditional neuropsychological battery were discussed in terms of the factors.", "PMID": 450625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9387", "title": "Facial imagery and personality development.", "content": "The empirical relationship between judgments obtained with a motorized facial-distortion mirror and relevant personality and rating measures was examined. Subjects were 88 school children. The findings indicated general trend differences between males and females in perceiving facial distortion shown in a mirror. Although not statistically significant, a relationship between teachers' ratings on hygiene, self-concept, sociability, and two scales of the High School Personality Questionnaire were noted.", "contents": "Facial imagery and personality development. The empirical relationship between judgments obtained with a motorized facial-distortion mirror and relevant personality and rating measures was examined. Subjects were 88 school children. The findings indicated general trend differences between males and females in perceiving facial distortion shown in a mirror. Although not statistically significant, a relationship between teachers' ratings on hygiene, self-concept, sociability, and two scales of the High School Personality Questionnaire were noted.", "PMID": 450626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9388", "title": "Assessment of cognitive deficiency with the McCarthy Scales and Stanford-Binet: a correlational analysis.", "content": "The present study tested matched samples of 15 retarded and 15 normal children on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities. Pearson correlations between Stanford-Binet IQs and the six McCarthy Scale Indexes for retarded subjects were lower than coefficients obtained from the normal subjects and from previous research. While the General Cognitive Index may be interchangeable with IQ in the Normal range of intellectual functioning, this relationship was not found for the retarded subjects in the present study. The \"venerable\" Stanford-Binet retains its position as the most broadly applicable measure of intellectual functioning. Implications of the study as well as an outline for future research were included.", "contents": "Assessment of cognitive deficiency with the McCarthy Scales and Stanford-Binet: a correlational analysis. The present study tested matched samples of 15 retarded and 15 normal children on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities. Pearson correlations between Stanford-Binet IQs and the six McCarthy Scale Indexes for retarded subjects were lower than coefficients obtained from the normal subjects and from previous research. While the General Cognitive Index may be interchangeable with IQ in the Normal range of intellectual functioning, this relationship was not found for the retarded subjects in the present study. The \"venerable\" Stanford-Binet retains its position as the most broadly applicable measure of intellectual functioning. Implications of the study as well as an outline for future research were included.", "PMID": 450631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9389", "title": "Correlational analysis of speakers' heights, weights, and temporal speech features.", "content": "Correlation coefficients on height, weight, and temporal features were computed separately for 15 female and 15 male speakers. With only one exception, speakers' heights and weights were not significantly correlated with their temporal characteristics. Implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.", "contents": "Correlational analysis of speakers' heights, weights, and temporal speech features. Correlation coefficients on height, weight, and temporal features were computed separately for 15 female and 15 male speakers. With only one exception, speakers' heights and weights were not significantly correlated with their temporal characteristics. Implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.", "PMID": 450632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9390", "title": "An exploration of perception of body boundary, personal space, and body size in elderly persons.", "content": "A study of 108 elderly persons using the Body Distortion Questionnaire and the personal space simulation technique test did not support hypotheses that elderly persons with a large personal space will have a larger distortion of body boundary, a larger perception of large body size, a smaller perception of small body size, a larger distortion of body size, and a larger body distortion than elderly persons with a small personal space. The analyses with one-tail t tests showed elderly persons with a small personal space have a larger perception of large body size and a larger distortion of body size than elderly persons with a large personal space. When the extremes of personal space were used the results were the same. Males have a larger personal space and greater distortion of skin perceptions than females.", "contents": "An exploration of perception of body boundary, personal space, and body size in elderly persons. A study of 108 elderly persons using the Body Distortion Questionnaire and the personal space simulation technique test did not support hypotheses that elderly persons with a large personal space will have a larger distortion of body boundary, a larger perception of large body size, a smaller perception of small body size, a larger distortion of body size, and a larger body distortion than elderly persons with a small personal space. The analyses with one-tail t tests showed elderly persons with a small personal space have a larger perception of large body size and a larger distortion of body size than elderly persons with a large personal space. When the extremes of personal space were used the results were the same. Males have a larger personal space and greater distortion of skin perceptions than females.", "PMID": 450633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9391", "title": "Age differences in movement time over distances proportional to size.", "content": "Investigations of the differences in movement speed over the age span, childhood to early adulthood, have typically confounded age with size differences which bring about mechanical differences in the task. The present study investigated the effect on arm movement time of confounding age and limb length. Young adults and children 7 to 9 yr. of age were tested over a distance proportional to their arm length. Despite moving over a proportionally shorter distance, the children were significantly slower than the adults, suggesting that age differences in performance are not solely attributable to size differences among subjects.", "contents": "Age differences in movement time over distances proportional to size. Investigations of the differences in movement speed over the age span, childhood to early adulthood, have typically confounded age with size differences which bring about mechanical differences in the task. The present study investigated the effect on arm movement time of confounding age and limb length. Young adults and children 7 to 9 yr. of age were tested over a distance proportional to their arm length. Despite moving over a proportionally shorter distance, the children were significantly slower than the adults, suggesting that age differences in performance are not solely attributable to size differences among subjects.", "PMID": 450634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9392", "title": "Prediction of neurosurgical results by psychological evaluation.", "content": "There has been an increasing interest in the role of personality factors in the outcome of medical treatment. The present study examined the role of personality measures in predicting the outcome of neurosurgery for patients with a well-documented disruption of one or more discs. Each of 15 male and 16 female patients whose average age was 40.8 yr. received the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory before surgery and received a follow-up at least one year after surgery or until a final, stable level of recovery was attained. A multiple correlation of .64 between the personality measures and treatment outcome suggested that even in cases with a well-documented need for surgery, psychological factors can play a major influence in the eventual outcome. Possible psychological interventions before surgery which might increase the likelihood of a good outcome are briefly outlined.", "contents": "Prediction of neurosurgical results by psychological evaluation. There has been an increasing interest in the role of personality factors in the outcome of medical treatment. The present study examined the role of personality measures in predicting the outcome of neurosurgery for patients with a well-documented disruption of one or more discs. Each of 15 male and 16 female patients whose average age was 40.8 yr. received the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory before surgery and received a follow-up at least one year after surgery or until a final, stable level of recovery was attained. A multiple correlation of .64 between the personality measures and treatment outcome suggested that even in cases with a well-documented need for surgery, psychological factors can play a major influence in the eventual outcome. Possible psychological interventions before surgery which might increase the likelihood of a good outcome are briefly outlined.", "PMID": 450635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9393", "title": "Decrements in olfactory sensitivity due to ozone exposure.", "content": "Approximate olfactory thresholds were determined in an exploratory study in which subjects were exposed to ozone (O3). The odorants were butyl alcohol (BA) and acetic acid (AA). Preliminary data suggest (1) temporary increases in thresholds due to O3 exposure, (2) diminution of O3 effects with repeated exposures, and (3) greater and more reliable effects for BA than for AA.", "contents": "Decrements in olfactory sensitivity due to ozone exposure. Approximate olfactory thresholds were determined in an exploratory study in which subjects were exposed to ozone (O3). The odorants were butyl alcohol (BA) and acetic acid (AA). Preliminary data suggest (1) temporary increases in thresholds due to O3 exposure, (2) diminution of O3 effects with repeated exposures, and (3) greater and more reliable effects for BA than for AA.", "PMID": 450636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9394", "title": "Extent of psychological differentiation and creativity.", "content": "Among the extensive array of studies relating Witkin's construct of psychological differentiation to many psychological functions and variables, none seem to have adequately tested its relationship to creativity, although these two variables have personality traits and development characteristics in common and require similar skills for effective performance. Eighty-five male high school students were separated according to Embedded Figures Test, and the extreme groups tested for creativity by eight factorially pure tests developed by Guilford, and by Schaefer and Anastasi's Biographical Inventory. Statistical procedures included analysis of covariance, analysis of variance, and a matrix of intercorrelations. With intelligence controlled, field-independent persons performed significantly better than field-dependent persons on measures of visualization, spontaneous flexibility, adaptive flexibility, and creativity in mathematics and science but not significantly better on the other six creativity tests.", "contents": "Extent of psychological differentiation and creativity. Among the extensive array of studies relating Witkin's construct of psychological differentiation to many psychological functions and variables, none seem to have adequately tested its relationship to creativity, although these two variables have personality traits and development characteristics in common and require similar skills for effective performance. Eighty-five male high school students were separated according to Embedded Figures Test, and the extreme groups tested for creativity by eight factorially pure tests developed by Guilford, and by Schaefer and Anastasi's Biographical Inventory. Statistical procedures included analysis of covariance, analysis of variance, and a matrix of intercorrelations. With intelligence controlled, field-independent persons performed significantly better than field-dependent persons on measures of visualization, spontaneous flexibility, adaptive flexibility, and creativity in mathematics and science but not significantly better on the other six creativity tests.", "PMID": 450637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9395", "title": "Comparison of culturally deprived school achievers and underachievers on memory function and perception.", "content": "To compare the memory function and perception of culturally deprived achievers with underachievers, 36 culturally deprived children were assigned to one of two groups according to their achievement level, in relation to their age and IQ. Underachievers were children achieving 6 mo. or more below expected level. Achievers were children achieving within at least 5 mo. of expected level. All subjects were between the ages of 8 and 12 yr. and were in Grades 4, 5, or 6. Four tests were administered, the Block Design and Digit Span subtests of the WISC, Memory-for-Designs, and the Minnesota Percepto-Diagnostic Test. The two groups did not differ on the first three tests, but the achievers performed significantly better on the last test than the underachievers. It was speculated that the differences were related to level of motor execution.", "contents": "Comparison of culturally deprived school achievers and underachievers on memory function and perception. To compare the memory function and perception of culturally deprived achievers with underachievers, 36 culturally deprived children were assigned to one of two groups according to their achievement level, in relation to their age and IQ. Underachievers were children achieving 6 mo. or more below expected level. Achievers were children achieving within at least 5 mo. of expected level. All subjects were between the ages of 8 and 12 yr. and were in Grades 4, 5, or 6. Four tests were administered, the Block Design and Digit Span subtests of the WISC, Memory-for-Designs, and the Minnesota Percepto-Diagnostic Test. The two groups did not differ on the first three tests, but the achievers performed significantly better on the last test than the underachievers. It was speculated that the differences were related to level of motor execution.", "PMID": 450640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9396", "title": "Comparison of accuracy in auditory and tactile recognition memory for environmental stimuli.", "content": "Accuracy rates for auditory and tactile recognition of naturalistic stimuli over a 7-day period are compared. 40 subjects listened to 50, 107, or 194 naturalistic sounds and were tested immediately or after delays of 2 or 7 days. 30 other subjects handled but did not visually inspect 150 common objects and were tested over the same three delay intervals. Recognition accuracy for sounds was 87.5%, 82.5%, and 80.4% while common objects were recognized at 96.0%, 93.8%, and 88.5% rates of accuracy. Tactile recognition memory was superior to auditory recognition memory. The recognition accuracies of both modalities were affected by the delay interval. The number of items inspected had no effect on the recognition memory for sounds. Following a delay of 1 wk., the accuracy of recognition relative to the original level of function was 92% for both modalities.", "contents": "Comparison of accuracy in auditory and tactile recognition memory for environmental stimuli. Accuracy rates for auditory and tactile recognition of naturalistic stimuli over a 7-day period are compared. 40 subjects listened to 50, 107, or 194 naturalistic sounds and were tested immediately or after delays of 2 or 7 days. 30 other subjects handled but did not visually inspect 150 common objects and were tested over the same three delay intervals. Recognition accuracy for sounds was 87.5%, 82.5%, and 80.4% while common objects were recognized at 96.0%, 93.8%, and 88.5% rates of accuracy. Tactile recognition memory was superior to auditory recognition memory. The recognition accuracies of both modalities were affected by the delay interval. The number of items inspected had no effect on the recognition memory for sounds. Following a delay of 1 wk., the accuracy of recognition relative to the original level of function was 92% for both modalities.", "PMID": 450641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9397", "title": "Critical analysis of a study on field dependence in young children.", "content": "Kojima's conclusion that our method of scoring performance in the rod-and-frame test did not produce satisfactory results in young children was invalid because our scoring method was used incorrectly, fallacious reasoning was used to reject our scoring method, subjects were classified wrongly, and the procedure used to test vertical perception in the children probably was unreliable.", "contents": "Critical analysis of a study on field dependence in young children. Kojima's conclusion that our method of scoring performance in the rod-and-frame test did not produce satisfactory results in young children was invalid because our scoring method was used incorrectly, fallacious reasoning was used to reject our scoring method, subjects were classified wrongly, and the procedure used to test vertical perception in the children probably was unreliable.", "PMID": 450642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9398", "title": "Birth order and intelligence: an immunological interpretation.", "content": "The literature indicates that the IQs and school performance of children tend to decline with increasing order of birth. A hypothesis is here presented that the effect of birth order upon intellectual performance may result from an increasing probability of maternal immune attack upon the fetal brain in utero with order of parity. In support of this hypothesis, evidence is adduced from the literature that the fetal brain is antigenic, that fetal antigens may reach the immune system of the mother, that the incidence of maternal sensitization to fetal antigens increases with parity, that antibodies may readily cross the placenta and reach the fetal brain, that antibodies can be highly teratogenic, and that certain antibodies may damage, in a lasting way, the structure, function, and learning capacity of brains in experimental animals and human infants.", "contents": "Birth order and intelligence: an immunological interpretation. The literature indicates that the IQs and school performance of children tend to decline with increasing order of birth. A hypothesis is here presented that the effect of birth order upon intellectual performance may result from an increasing probability of maternal immune attack upon the fetal brain in utero with order of parity. In support of this hypothesis, evidence is adduced from the literature that the fetal brain is antigenic, that fetal antigens may reach the immune system of the mother, that the incidence of maternal sensitization to fetal antigens increases with parity, that antibodies may readily cross the placenta and reach the fetal brain, that antibodies can be highly teratogenic, and that certain antibodies may damage, in a lasting way, the structure, function, and learning capacity of brains in experimental animals and human infants.", "PMID": 450643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9399", "title": "[Intestinal polyposis (author's transl)].", "content": "Recto-colonic polyposis is typical of pre-malignant lesions. Recognition and the application of appropriate treatment offer true prophylaxis against recto-colonic carcinoma in sufferers. Careful study should be made of other family members, the only way in which latent forms may be discovered before the stage of malignant change.", "contents": "[Intestinal polyposis (author's transl)]. Recto-colonic polyposis is typical of pre-malignant lesions. Recognition and the application of appropriate treatment offer true prophylaxis against recto-colonic carcinoma in sufferers. Careful study should be made of other family members, the only way in which latent forms may be discovered before the stage of malignant change.", "PMID": 450656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9400", "title": "[Panhypopituitarism and dwarfism in a man with a primary empty sella turcica (author's transl)].", "content": "Endocrine features associated with the primary empty sella turcica syndrom are rare; they are usually related to a pituitary microadenoma and more rarely to an idiopathic panhypop ituitarism. A pituitary dwarfism with an idiopathic panhypopituitarism of hypothalamic origin, associated with an \"empty\" sella turcica containing functional and stimulable pituitary tissue, is reported in a 27 year old male Moraccan.", "contents": "[Panhypopituitarism and dwarfism in a man with a primary empty sella turcica (author's transl)]. Endocrine features associated with the primary empty sella turcica syndrom are rare; they are usually related to a pituitary microadenoma and more rarely to an idiopathic panhypop ituitarism. A pituitary dwarfism with an idiopathic panhypopituitarism of hypothalamic origin, associated with an \"empty\" sella turcica containing functional and stimulable pituitary tissue, is reported in a 27 year old male Moraccan.", "PMID": 450657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9401", "title": "[Percutaneous transhepatic drainage of the biliary tree (author's transl)].", "content": "For some mechanical jaundice surgery may be hazardous or even of no use. Percutaneous transhepatic drainage of the biliary tree is a new technique allowing a quick and durable resolution of the jaundice. It is a non drastic procedure which can be done under local anesthesia. Here is the report of the authors first case. They propose the likely indications of such a drainage.", "contents": "[Percutaneous transhepatic drainage of the biliary tree (author's transl)]. For some mechanical jaundice surgery may be hazardous or even of no use. Percutaneous transhepatic drainage of the biliary tree is a new technique allowing a quick and durable resolution of the jaundice. It is a non drastic procedure which can be done under local anesthesia. Here is the report of the authors first case. They propose the likely indications of such a drainage.", "PMID": 450658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9402", "title": "[Glycosylated hemoglobin: r\u00e9sults of 550 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "A selective estimation of glycosylated hemoglobin, HbA1C, exclusive of other minor components, is propably one of the best available tests. Such an automated method is proposed, which was experimented in 550 cases. It demonstrates a quite narrow gaussian distribution in controls. In contrast, a large dispersion is observed among long term diabetics, most of them with ocular complications with only a minority of results in the normal range. This is still more evident in case of juvenile diabetes.", "contents": "[Glycosylated hemoglobin: r\u00e9sults of 550 cases (author's transl)]. A selective estimation of glycosylated hemoglobin, HbA1C, exclusive of other minor components, is propably one of the best available tests. Such an automated method is proposed, which was experimented in 550 cases. It demonstrates a quite narrow gaussian distribution in controls. In contrast, a large dispersion is observed among long term diabetics, most of them with ocular complications with only a minority of results in the normal range. This is still more evident in case of juvenile diabetes.", "PMID": 450666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9403", "title": "[Mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach between 1954 and 1974. Changes in France (author's transl)].", "content": "A study of changes in mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach in France between 1954 and 1974 was undertaken on the basis of probable levels standardised on the French population in 1968. There was a marked fall in this mortality for both sexes. In the male, the initial level in 1954 was 54.8/100 000 and the decrease was of the order of 1.35 deaths per 100 000 per year, i.e. an annual fall of -3.21%. This phenomenon was more marked during the second period (1965--1974): - 3.88%, than during the first period (1954--1963: - 2.38%. In the female, with an initial mortality rate of 31.25/100 000, the annual decrease was 31.25/100 000, i.e. an annual fall of - 3.49%. This fall was - 3.09% for the first ten year period and - 4.80% for the second period. Thus in France, in common with many other countries, there has been a marked decrease in mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach, for both sexes, and this phenomenon became progressively more notable during the period of the study.", "contents": "[Mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach between 1954 and 1974. Changes in France (author's transl)]. A study of changes in mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach in France between 1954 and 1974 was undertaken on the basis of probable levels standardised on the French population in 1968. There was a marked fall in this mortality for both sexes. In the male, the initial level in 1954 was 54.8/100 000 and the decrease was of the order of 1.35 deaths per 100 000 per year, i.e. an annual fall of -3.21%. This phenomenon was more marked during the second period (1965--1974): - 3.88%, than during the first period (1954--1963: - 2.38%. In the female, with an initial mortality rate of 31.25/100 000, the annual decrease was 31.25/100 000, i.e. an annual fall of - 3.49%. This fall was - 3.09% for the first ten year period and - 4.80% for the second period. Thus in France, in common with many other countries, there has been a marked decrease in mortality due to carcinoma of the stomach, for both sexes, and this phenomenon became progressively more notable during the period of the study.", "PMID": 450667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9404", "title": "[Combined revascularisation of the superficial and deep femoral arteries by vein graft (author's transl)].", "content": "When venous bypass is indicated in order to reconstruct the femoral bifurcation, or its branches, it is desirable to revascularise the superficial and deep femoral at the same time. There are three technical possibilities: bifurcated graft, scarf graft, bypass with interfemoral graft. If there is a lack of venous material, the bypass will be mixed: goretex-vein. There are numerous indications for these procedures: obliterative arterial disease with stenosis of the division of the common femoral, repeated of septic surgery of the femoral tripod, aneurysms of traumatic lesions involving the femoral bifurcation.", "contents": "[Combined revascularisation of the superficial and deep femoral arteries by vein graft (author's transl)]. When venous bypass is indicated in order to reconstruct the femoral bifurcation, or its branches, it is desirable to revascularise the superficial and deep femoral at the same time. There are three technical possibilities: bifurcated graft, scarf graft, bypass with interfemoral graft. If there is a lack of venous material, the bypass will be mixed: goretex-vein. There are numerous indications for these procedures: obliterative arterial disease with stenosis of the division of the common femoral, repeated of septic surgery of the femoral tripod, aneurysms of traumatic lesions involving the femoral bifurcation.", "PMID": 450668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9405", "title": "[The hepatitis B virus markers, in leprous patients (author's transl)].", "content": "The hepatitis B virus markers were studied on 553 leprous sera and 100 controls sera. HBs Ag detected by RIA were present on 25,4% of leprous and 12% of controls; the anti-HBs by RIA were revealed in 44,1% of patients out 38% of controls. The leprous was not carrying this markers were HBe Ag or anti-HBe or anti-HBc positive. By this vertical study it appears that 2,4% of the cases presented recent or acute hepatitis; 23% were chronic carriers; 41,7% had been in times past infected but were cured and the third remaining had been infected but coat markers were absent, it is more than likely that is an old infected group. The study revealed no significant difference in hepatitis chronic forms frequency between lepromatous and tuberculo\u00efd patients.", "contents": "[The hepatitis B virus markers, in leprous patients (author's transl)]. The hepatitis B virus markers were studied on 553 leprous sera and 100 controls sera. HBs Ag detected by RIA were present on 25,4% of leprous and 12% of controls; the anti-HBs by RIA were revealed in 44,1% of patients out 38% of controls. The leprous was not carrying this markers were HBe Ag or anti-HBe or anti-HBc positive. By this vertical study it appears that 2,4% of the cases presented recent or acute hepatitis; 23% were chronic carriers; 41,7% had been in times past infected but were cured and the third remaining had been infected but coat markers were absent, it is more than likely that is an old infected group. The study revealed no significant difference in hepatitis chronic forms frequency between lepromatous and tuberculo\u00efd patients.", "PMID": 450680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9406", "title": "[Gastric emptying of an ordinary meal in man. Study by a radio-isotopic method (author's transl)].", "content": "A radio-isotopic method was used to study the gastric emptying of an ordinary meal in 15 control subjects. The technique developed may be used for direct measurement of the early phase of gastric emptying and a simultaneous study of emptying of liquid and solid phases, respectively labelled with Tc99m and Cr51. Emptying of the liquid phase of the meal takes place in accordance with a mono-exponential curve in relation to time, the T 1/2 of which is 54 min +/- 6 (MSD). Emptying of the solid phase is significantly slower than that of the liquid phase. The reproductibility of the method was confirmed and the imprecision of each measurement does not exceed 5%.", "contents": "[Gastric emptying of an ordinary meal in man. Study by a radio-isotopic method (author's transl)]. A radio-isotopic method was used to study the gastric emptying of an ordinary meal in 15 control subjects. The technique developed may be used for direct measurement of the early phase of gastric emptying and a simultaneous study of emptying of liquid and solid phases, respectively labelled with Tc99m and Cr51. Emptying of the liquid phase of the meal takes place in accordance with a mono-exponential curve in relation to time, the T 1/2 of which is 54 min +/- 6 (MSD). Emptying of the solid phase is significantly slower than that of the liquid phase. The reproductibility of the method was confirmed and the imprecision of each measurement does not exceed 5%.", "PMID": 450681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9407", "title": "A precise quantitation of gene number by saturation hybridization using cloned DNA.", "content": "This paper describes a precise method of gene titration as applied to the alpha- and beta-globin genes in the mouse. The three salient features of the method are: (i) the use of saturation hybridization in probe cDNA excess, (ii) the use of highly purified cDNA probes prepared by preparative hybridization with cloned globin sequences (Longacre and Mach (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 7500) and (iii) the use of cloned globin sequences to calibrate the system internally. The results indicate that there are two genes for alpha-globin and two genes for beta-globin in the BALB/c mouse. The significance of these results are discussed in relation to other data regarding adult and embryonic globin genes.", "contents": "A precise quantitation of gene number by saturation hybridization using cloned DNA. This paper describes a precise method of gene titration as applied to the alpha- and beta-globin genes in the mouse. The three salient features of the method are: (i) the use of saturation hybridization in probe cDNA excess, (ii) the use of highly purified cDNA probes prepared by preparative hybridization with cloned globin sequences (Longacre and Mach (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 7500) and (iii) the use of cloned globin sequences to calibrate the system internally. The results indicate that there are two genes for alpha-globin and two genes for beta-globin in the BALB/c mouse. The significance of these results are discussed in relation to other data regarding adult and embryonic globin genes.", "PMID": 450695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9408", "title": "Rapid synthesis of oligodeoxyribonucleotides. III. Effect of added carboxylate ion on the efficiency of internucleotide bond formation. Solid-phase synthesis of the dodecanucleotide, d(pT-A-A-C-T-G-C-T-C-A-C-T).", "content": "In solid-phase oligodeoxyribonucleotide synthesis the addition of benzoic acid to internucleotide phosphodiester bond-forming reactions lowers coupling yields by far greater amount than anticipated on a simple nucleotide-carboxylate molar ratio. High coupling yields were consistently obtained in synthesis of the dodecanucleotide, d(pT-A-A-C-T-G-C-T-C-A-C-T), using rigorously purified nucleotide starting materials.", "contents": "Rapid synthesis of oligodeoxyribonucleotides. III. Effect of added carboxylate ion on the efficiency of internucleotide bond formation. Solid-phase synthesis of the dodecanucleotide, d(pT-A-A-C-T-G-C-T-C-A-C-T). In solid-phase oligodeoxyribonucleotide synthesis the addition of benzoic acid to internucleotide phosphodiester bond-forming reactions lowers coupling yields by far greater amount than anticipated on a simple nucleotide-carboxylate molar ratio. High coupling yields were consistently obtained in synthesis of the dodecanucleotide, d(pT-A-A-C-T-G-C-T-C-A-C-T), using rigorously purified nucleotide starting materials.", "PMID": 450696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9409", "title": "Influence of nucleotide sequence adjacent to duplex DNA termini on 3' terminal labeling by terminal transferase.", "content": "We have analyzed the effect of base-pairing at the exposed ends of Hinc II fragments of SV40 DNA on the efficiency of ribonucleotide incorporation catalyzed by terminal transferase. Wide variations in the labeling efficiency of individual DNA fragments have been observed. To elucidate the nature of this variation at the molecular level, we have correlated this effect with nucleotide sequence adjacent to the cleavage site. We found that a G:C base pair right at the exposed end drastically reduces the incorporation of ribonucleotides. Furthermore, the higher the number of G:C base pairs adjacent to the exposed end, the greater the reduction in labeling efficiency. From these results, we conclude that the labeling efficiency is determined by the degree of 'terminal breathing' of the DNA molecule at the exposed end of the duplex.", "contents": "Influence of nucleotide sequence adjacent to duplex DNA termini on 3' terminal labeling by terminal transferase. We have analyzed the effect of base-pairing at the exposed ends of Hinc II fragments of SV40 DNA on the efficiency of ribonucleotide incorporation catalyzed by terminal transferase. Wide variations in the labeling efficiency of individual DNA fragments have been observed. To elucidate the nature of this variation at the molecular level, we have correlated this effect with nucleotide sequence adjacent to the cleavage site. We found that a G:C base pair right at the exposed end drastically reduces the incorporation of ribonucleotides. Furthermore, the higher the number of G:C base pairs adjacent to the exposed end, the greater the reduction in labeling efficiency. From these results, we conclude that the labeling efficiency is determined by the degree of 'terminal breathing' of the DNA molecule at the exposed end of the duplex.", "PMID": 450697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9410", "title": "The respective roles of the protein kinase and pppA2' p5' A2' p5 A-activated endonuclease in the inhibition of protein synthesis by double stranded RNA in rabbit reticulocyte lysates.", "content": "Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) inhibits protein synthesis in rabbit reticulocyte lysates by activating the synthesis of the endonuclease effector pppA2' p5' A2' p5' A(2-5A) and a protein kinase which phosphorylates the protein synthesis initiation factor eIF-2. Under certain assay conditions, high concentrations of dsRNA are without inhibitory effect in many lysates (high dsRNA \"reversible\" lysates). In these lysates natural dsRNA at low concentrations stimulated protein kinase activity to a greater extent than did the synthetic dsRNA poly rI.rC. Synthesis of 2--5A was greater when poly rI.rC was used. However, a number of factors, including the salt concentration and messenger RNA used, combine to determine the overall effect of dsRNA on protein synthesis under any given set of experimental conditions.", "contents": "The respective roles of the protein kinase and pppA2' p5' A2' p5 A-activated endonuclease in the inhibition of protein synthesis by double stranded RNA in rabbit reticulocyte lysates. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) inhibits protein synthesis in rabbit reticulocyte lysates by activating the synthesis of the endonuclease effector pppA2' p5' A2' p5' A(2-5A) and a protein kinase which phosphorylates the protein synthesis initiation factor eIF-2. Under certain assay conditions, high concentrations of dsRNA are without inhibitory effect in many lysates (high dsRNA \"reversible\" lysates). In these lysates natural dsRNA at low concentrations stimulated protein kinase activity to a greater extent than did the synthetic dsRNA poly rI.rC. Synthesis of 2--5A was greater when poly rI.rC was used. However, a number of factors, including the salt concentration and messenger RNA used, combine to determine the overall effect of dsRNA on protein synthesis under any given set of experimental conditions.", "PMID": 450698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9411", "title": "Synthesis of human insulin gene. Part I. Development of reversed-phase chromatography in the modified triester method. Its application in the rapid and efficient synthesis of eight deoxyribooligonucleotides fragments constituting human insulin A DNA.", "content": "Preparative reversed-phase thin layer chromatography on silanized silica-gel (RP-2 and RP-18) has been developed to purify triester deoxyribooligonucleotides prepared by the modified triester method. The effectiveness of this technique has been demonstrated in the rapid synthesis of eight pure deoxyribooligonucleotides constituting the sequence of human insulin A DNA. The sequence of each of the deoxyribooligonucleotides was confirmed by the two-dimensional mobility-shift method of finger-printing.", "contents": "Synthesis of human insulin gene. Part I. Development of reversed-phase chromatography in the modified triester method. Its application in the rapid and efficient synthesis of eight deoxyribooligonucleotides fragments constituting human insulin A DNA. Preparative reversed-phase thin layer chromatography on silanized silica-gel (RP-2 and RP-18) has been developed to purify triester deoxyribooligonucleotides prepared by the modified triester method. The effectiveness of this technique has been demonstrated in the rapid synthesis of eight pure deoxyribooligonucleotides constituting the sequence of human insulin A DNA. The sequence of each of the deoxyribooligonucleotides was confirmed by the two-dimensional mobility-shift method of finger-printing.", "PMID": 450699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9412", "title": "Cromatin and core particles formed from the inner histones and synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides of defined sequence.", "content": "Chicken erythrocyte inner histones (H2A, H2B, H3 and H4) were associated with the two complementary homopolymeric polydeoxyribonucleotides and the two alternating copolymeric polydeoxyribonucleotides. No evidence for formation of chromatin-like structures was obtained for the complexes with poly(dG) . poly(dC) or poly(dA) . poly(dT). Both poly (dGdC) . poly(dGdC) and poly(dAdT) . poly(dAdT) could be folded by histones to yield material digested by DNAase I to multiples of about 10 and by staphylococcal nuclease to 146 bp core particles. Due to the lack of sequence heterogeniety in the complex of histones with poly(dAdT) . poly(dAdT), core particles with remarkable fine structural detail are obtained. The internal organization of DNA in the AT-containing and GC-containing core particles appears not to be identical.", "contents": "Cromatin and core particles formed from the inner histones and synthetic polydeoxyribonucleotides of defined sequence. Chicken erythrocyte inner histones (H2A, H2B, H3 and H4) were associated with the two complementary homopolymeric polydeoxyribonucleotides and the two alternating copolymeric polydeoxyribonucleotides. No evidence for formation of chromatin-like structures was obtained for the complexes with poly(dG) . poly(dC) or poly(dA) . poly(dT). Both poly (dGdC) . poly(dGdC) and poly(dAdT) . poly(dAdT) could be folded by histones to yield material digested by DNAase I to multiples of about 10 and by staphylococcal nuclease to 146 bp core particles. Due to the lack of sequence heterogeniety in the complex of histones with poly(dAdT) . poly(dAdT), core particles with remarkable fine structural detail are obtained. The internal organization of DNA in the AT-containing and GC-containing core particles appears not to be identical.", "PMID": 450700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9413", "title": "DNA replication in Physarum polycephalum: electron microscopic and autoradiographic analysis of replicating DNA from defined stages of the S-period.", "content": "Electron microscopic and autoradiographic analysis of replicating DNA from Physarum showed that replication occurs at a rate of 0.4 micron/min/per replicon and that replicons of size 10--15 mu occur in temporal clusters with an average of about 4 replicons per cluster. These results are compared with previous hydrodynamic measurements and with those obtained in other organisms.", "contents": "DNA replication in Physarum polycephalum: electron microscopic and autoradiographic analysis of replicating DNA from defined stages of the S-period. Electron microscopic and autoradiographic analysis of replicating DNA from Physarum showed that replication occurs at a rate of 0.4 micron/min/per replicon and that replicons of size 10--15 mu occur in temporal clusters with an average of about 4 replicons per cluster. These results are compared with previous hydrodynamic measurements and with those obtained in other organisms.", "PMID": 450701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9414", "title": "Unique sequence arrangement of ribosomal genes in the palindromic rDNA molecule of Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "R-loop and restriction mapping procedures reveal the organization of coding regions at each end of the giant rDNA palindrome of Physarum polycephalum. A 19S coding region of 2.10 +/- 0.21 kb is located at each end of a very long central spacer (35.64 +/- 2.08 kb). An internal spacer of 1.66 +/- 0.12 kb lies distal to the 19S gene. The 5.8S rRNA coding region is located in this spacer. The 26S gene lies distal to the internal spacer. The 26S gene is unusual among those of eukaryotes in that it consists of 3 coding regions (alpha, beta and gamma) interrupted by 2 intervening sequences. The 26S alpha (most central) coding segment of 2.41 +/- 0.33 kb is separated from the 26S beta segment by an intervening sequence of 0.68 +/- 0.13 kb. The 26S beta segment (0.70 +/- 0.11 kb) is separated from the most distal 26S gamma segment (0.59 +/- 0.14 kb) by an intervening sequence of 1.21 +/- 0.14 kb. The 2 intervening sequences are present in at least 88% of ribsomal genes from active plasmodia, indicating that genes containing these sequences are transcribed. The rDNA termini contain a heterogeneous region which varies in length by +/- 300 base pairs.", "contents": "Unique sequence arrangement of ribosomal genes in the palindromic rDNA molecule of Physarum polycephalum. R-loop and restriction mapping procedures reveal the organization of coding regions at each end of the giant rDNA palindrome of Physarum polycephalum. A 19S coding region of 2.10 +/- 0.21 kb is located at each end of a very long central spacer (35.64 +/- 2.08 kb). An internal spacer of 1.66 +/- 0.12 kb lies distal to the 19S gene. The 5.8S rRNA coding region is located in this spacer. The 26S gene lies distal to the internal spacer. The 26S gene is unusual among those of eukaryotes in that it consists of 3 coding regions (alpha, beta and gamma) interrupted by 2 intervening sequences. The 26S alpha (most central) coding segment of 2.41 +/- 0.33 kb is separated from the 26S beta segment by an intervening sequence of 0.68 +/- 0.13 kb. The 26S beta segment (0.70 +/- 0.11 kb) is separated from the most distal 26S gamma segment (0.59 +/- 0.14 kb) by an intervening sequence of 1.21 +/- 0.14 kb. The 2 intervening sequences are present in at least 88% of ribsomal genes from active plasmodia, indicating that genes containing these sequences are transcribed. The rDNA termini contain a heterogeneous region which varies in length by +/- 300 base pairs.", "PMID": 450702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9415", "title": "Core nucleosomes by digestion of reconstructed histone-DNA complexes.", "content": "Reconstructed complexes of the inner histones (H2A, H2B, H3, H4) and a variety of DNAs were digested with micrococcal nuclease to yield very homogeneous populations of core nucleosomes (nu 1). Nucleosomes containing Micrococcus luteus DNA (72% G+C); chicken DNA (43% G+C), Clostridium perfringens DNA (29% G+C); or poly(A-dT.poly(dA-dT) have been examined by circular dichroism, thermaldetenaturation, electron microscopy, and DNAse I digestion. Circular dichroism spectra of all particles show a typically suppressed ellipticity at 260--280 nm and a prominent alpha-helix signal at 222 nm. All particles show biphasic melting except nu 1 (dA-dT), which show three prominent melting transitions at ionic strength less than or equal to 1 mM. DNAse I digestion of nu 1 (dA-dT) produces a ladder of DNA fragments fiffering in lengthy by one base residue. nu 1 (dA-dT) contain 146 base pairs of DNA and exhibit an average DNA helix pitch of 10.4-10.5 bases per turn. There appear to be two regions of different DNA pitch wihtin nu 1 (dA-dT). It is suggested that the two regions of DNA pitch might correspond to the two regions of the melting profiles.", "contents": "Core nucleosomes by digestion of reconstructed histone-DNA complexes. Reconstructed complexes of the inner histones (H2A, H2B, H3, H4) and a variety of DNAs were digested with micrococcal nuclease to yield very homogeneous populations of core nucleosomes (nu 1). Nucleosomes containing Micrococcus luteus DNA (72% G+C); chicken DNA (43% G+C), Clostridium perfringens DNA (29% G+C); or poly(A-dT.poly(dA-dT) have been examined by circular dichroism, thermaldetenaturation, electron microscopy, and DNAse I digestion. Circular dichroism spectra of all particles show a typically suppressed ellipticity at 260--280 nm and a prominent alpha-helix signal at 222 nm. All particles show biphasic melting except nu 1 (dA-dT), which show three prominent melting transitions at ionic strength less than or equal to 1 mM. DNAse I digestion of nu 1 (dA-dT) produces a ladder of DNA fragments fiffering in lengthy by one base residue. nu 1 (dA-dT) contain 146 base pairs of DNA and exhibit an average DNA helix pitch of 10.4-10.5 bases per turn. There appear to be two regions of different DNA pitch wihtin nu 1 (dA-dT). It is suggested that the two regions of DNA pitch might correspond to the two regions of the melting profiles.", "PMID": 450703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9416", "title": "Conformation of DNA in chromatin protein-DNA complexes studied by infrared spectroscopy.", "content": "The following observations concerning the DNA secondary structures in various nucleohistone complexes were made by infrared spectroscopy: 1/ in chromatin, chromatin extracted by 0.6 M NaCl, nucleosomes, and histone-DNA reconstituted complexes, the DNA remains in a B type conformation at low relative hygrometry; 2/ in chromatin extracted by tRNA and in non histone protein-DNA reconstituted complexes, the DNA can adopt an A type conformation. Infrared linear dichroism data show that in NHP-DNA complexes the low relative hygrometry conformation of DNA may be modified and that the infrared parameter -1090 is close to that measured for RNA's or DNA-RNA hybrids. It is concluded that the histones block the DNA in a B form and that some of the NHP could be involved in the control of the secondary structure of DNA in chromatin.", "contents": "Conformation of DNA in chromatin protein-DNA complexes studied by infrared spectroscopy. The following observations concerning the DNA secondary structures in various nucleohistone complexes were made by infrared spectroscopy: 1/ in chromatin, chromatin extracted by 0.6 M NaCl, nucleosomes, and histone-DNA reconstituted complexes, the DNA remains in a B type conformation at low relative hygrometry; 2/ in chromatin extracted by tRNA and in non histone protein-DNA reconstituted complexes, the DNA can adopt an A type conformation. Infrared linear dichroism data show that in NHP-DNA complexes the low relative hygrometry conformation of DNA may be modified and that the infrared parameter -1090 is close to that measured for RNA's or DNA-RNA hybrids. It is concluded that the histones block the DNA in a B form and that some of the NHP could be involved in the control of the secondary structure of DNA in chromatin.", "PMID": 450704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9417", "title": "Operators and promoters in the OR region of phage 434.", "content": "The OR operator region of phage 434 contains three 14 bp blocks with sequence ACAAGA-A--TTGT which are presumed to be the 434 repressor recognition sites. Operator constitutive mutations are located in two of these blocks, while a mutation affecting repressor levels in the lysogenic state is located in the third. Two transcripts obtained in vitro, one leftwards and one rightwards, are tentatively identified as the Prm and PR transcription starts. the arrangement of the 434 operator region appears to be very similar to that of the OR of phage lambda.", "contents": "Operators and promoters in the OR region of phage 434. The OR operator region of phage 434 contains three 14 bp blocks with sequence ACAAGA-A--TTGT which are presumed to be the 434 repressor recognition sites. Operator constitutive mutations are located in two of these blocks, while a mutation affecting repressor levels in the lysogenic state is located in the third. Two transcripts obtained in vitro, one leftwards and one rightwards, are tentatively identified as the Prm and PR transcription starts. the arrangement of the 434 operator region appears to be very similar to that of the OR of phage lambda.", "PMID": 450705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9418", "title": "Salt-dependent interconversion of inner histone oligomers.", "content": "The inner histone complex, extracted from chicken erythrocyte chromatin in 2 M NaCL AT pH 7.4, has been characterized by sedimentation equilibrium and sedimentation velocity. High speed sedimentation equilibrium studies indicate that in 2 M NaCl the inner histones are a weakly associating system with contributions from species ranging in molecular weight from dimer to octamer. The appearance of a single boundary (3.8S at 2 M NaCl) in sedimentation velocity studies conducted over a wide range of protein concentrations and ionic conditions indicates that the various histone oligomers present are in rapid equilibrium with one another. At higher salts the equilibrium is shifted to favor higher molecular weight species; in 4 M NaCl essentially all of the histone is octameric at protein concentrations above 0.2 mg/ml. The facile interconversion of histone oligomers suggests that small alterations in histone-histone interactions may be responsible for changes in nucleosome conformations during various biological processes.", "contents": "Salt-dependent interconversion of inner histone oligomers. The inner histone complex, extracted from chicken erythrocyte chromatin in 2 M NaCL AT pH 7.4, has been characterized by sedimentation equilibrium and sedimentation velocity. High speed sedimentation equilibrium studies indicate that in 2 M NaCl the inner histones are a weakly associating system with contributions from species ranging in molecular weight from dimer to octamer. The appearance of a single boundary (3.8S at 2 M NaCl) in sedimentation velocity studies conducted over a wide range of protein concentrations and ionic conditions indicates that the various histone oligomers present are in rapid equilibrium with one another. At higher salts the equilibrium is shifted to favor higher molecular weight species; in 4 M NaCl essentially all of the histone is octameric at protein concentrations above 0.2 mg/ml. The facile interconversion of histone oligomers suggests that small alterations in histone-histone interactions may be responsible for changes in nucleosome conformations during various biological processes.", "PMID": 450706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9419", "title": "The effect of aphidicolin on DNA synthesis in isolated HeLa cell nuclei.", "content": "The effect of the inhibitor aphidicolin on DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei from HeLa cells and on the activities of partially purified DNA polymerases has been tested. Aphidicolin inhibited DNA synthesis and DNA polymerase alpha very efficiently whereas DNA polymerases beta and gamma were insensitive to the drug. The results indicate that DNA polymerase alpha is the polymerase active during elongation as well as in the gapfilling process of discontinuous DNA synthesis.", "contents": "The effect of aphidicolin on DNA synthesis in isolated HeLa cell nuclei. The effect of the inhibitor aphidicolin on DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei from HeLa cells and on the activities of partially purified DNA polymerases has been tested. Aphidicolin inhibited DNA synthesis and DNA polymerase alpha very efficiently whereas DNA polymerases beta and gamma were insensitive to the drug. The results indicate that DNA polymerase alpha is the polymerase active during elongation as well as in the gapfilling process of discontinuous DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 450707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9420", "title": "31P NMR studies of the solution structure and dynamics of nucleosomes and DNA.", "content": "31P NMR studies of 140 base pair DNA fragments in nucleosomes and free in solution show no detectable change in the internucleotide 31P chemical shift or linewidth when DNA is packaged into nucleosomes. Measurements of 31P spin-lattice relaxation times T1 and 31P-[H] nuclear Overhauser enhancements revealed internal motion with a correlation time of about 4 x 10(-10) sec in double helical DNA, both free in solution and bound to nucleosomal core proteins. This result implies greater dynamic mobility in double helical DNA than has previously been supposed.", "contents": "31P NMR studies of the solution structure and dynamics of nucleosomes and DNA. 31P NMR studies of 140 base pair DNA fragments in nucleosomes and free in solution show no detectable change in the internucleotide 31P chemical shift or linewidth when DNA is packaged into nucleosomes. Measurements of 31P spin-lattice relaxation times T1 and 31P-[H] nuclear Overhauser enhancements revealed internal motion with a correlation time of about 4 x 10(-10) sec in double helical DNA, both free in solution and bound to nucleosomal core proteins. This result implies greater dynamic mobility in double helical DNA than has previously been supposed.", "PMID": 450708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9421", "title": "DNA sequence selection by tightly-bound nonhistone chromosomal proteins.", "content": "Extraction of chicken reticulocyte chromatin with 2.0 M NaCl removed 96% of chromosomal protein and yields two DNA components after dialysis and high-speed centrifugation. The bulk of chromosomal DNA (ca. 99%) is rendered free of protein, and is thus soluble in 10 mM Tris-HCl, pH 8.0. The other component (ca. 1%) displays a high protein/DNA ratio, and is insoluble in 10mM Tris-HCl, pH 8.0. These DNAs can be separated on the basis of their solubilities. Analysis of the reassociation kinetics with total chicken DNA of these DNAs reveals marked differences. Whereas total DNA and the soluble component (DNA-S) have rapidly reassociating components, the insoluble component (DNA-P) is devoid of these components, and is therefore composed completely of unique sequence DNA. Cot 1/2 values indicate that DNA-S is substantially depleted of some DNA-P sequences. We conclude that this segregation, as determined by tightly-bound nonhistone chromosomal proteins, selects a subset of total genomic DNA sequences, and suggests sequence-specific interaction between the tightly-bound nonhistones and DNA.", "contents": "DNA sequence selection by tightly-bound nonhistone chromosomal proteins. Extraction of chicken reticulocyte chromatin with 2.0 M NaCl removed 96% of chromosomal protein and yields two DNA components after dialysis and high-speed centrifugation. The bulk of chromosomal DNA (ca. 99%) is rendered free of protein, and is thus soluble in 10 mM Tris-HCl, pH 8.0. The other component (ca. 1%) displays a high protein/DNA ratio, and is insoluble in 10mM Tris-HCl, pH 8.0. These DNAs can be separated on the basis of their solubilities. Analysis of the reassociation kinetics with total chicken DNA of these DNAs reveals marked differences. Whereas total DNA and the soluble component (DNA-S) have rapidly reassociating components, the insoluble component (DNA-P) is devoid of these components, and is therefore composed completely of unique sequence DNA. Cot 1/2 values indicate that DNA-S is substantially depleted of some DNA-P sequences. We conclude that this segregation, as determined by tightly-bound nonhistone chromosomal proteins, selects a subset of total genomic DNA sequences, and suggests sequence-specific interaction between the tightly-bound nonhistones and DNA.", "PMID": 450709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9422", "title": "Differences in the circular dichroism spectra of of eu- and heterochromatin fractions from rat liver.", "content": "Significant differences are observed between the CD spectra of eu- and heterochromatin prepared by fractionating mechanically sheared rat liver chromatin on linear sucrose density gradients. Heterochromatin has a broad positive CD at 270--280 nm, a cross-over point at 256 nmn, and a negative shoulder at 248 nm. Euchromatin displays a shift in the positive peak to 267 nm and the cross-over point to 254 nm, as well as an intensification of the 267 nm peak. The negative shoulder at 248 nm is absent in euchromatin. These spectral differences between eu- and heterochromatin are present in both low and high ionic strength media. Mechanical shearing does not induce CD alteration and anomalous light scattering is absent in our system. The greater RNA content of euchromatin compared to heterochromatin cannot account for the spectral differences. These results suggest that the DNA conformation of euchromatin is distinct from that of heterochromatin and they may provide clues to the reasons for the greater transcription of euchromatin.", "contents": "Differences in the circular dichroism spectra of of eu- and heterochromatin fractions from rat liver. Significant differences are observed between the CD spectra of eu- and heterochromatin prepared by fractionating mechanically sheared rat liver chromatin on linear sucrose density gradients. Heterochromatin has a broad positive CD at 270--280 nm, a cross-over point at 256 nmn, and a negative shoulder at 248 nm. Euchromatin displays a shift in the positive peak to 267 nm and the cross-over point to 254 nm, as well as an intensification of the 267 nm peak. The negative shoulder at 248 nm is absent in euchromatin. These spectral differences between eu- and heterochromatin are present in both low and high ionic strength media. Mechanical shearing does not induce CD alteration and anomalous light scattering is absent in our system. The greater RNA content of euchromatin compared to heterochromatin cannot account for the spectral differences. These results suggest that the DNA conformation of euchromatin is distinct from that of heterochromatin and they may provide clues to the reasons for the greater transcription of euchromatin.", "PMID": 450710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9423", "title": "Conformational changes induced in DNA by in vitro reaction with N-hydroxy-N-2-aminofluorene.", "content": "The conformation of DNA modified in vitro by the covalent binding of N-OH-AF was investigated by ultraviolet absorbance, circular dichroism and by radioimmunoassay using specific antibodies against Guo-AAF and nDNA-AAF. The results obtained by both physico-chemical and immunological methods are in agreement with a model involving destabilized regions in the double helical DNA around the carcinogen molecule in which, however, the -AF residues are stacked to the adjacent nucleotides. The RIA results show that the -AF residues are less accessible to antibodies in native than in denatured DNA-AF and thus suggest -AF residues partially buried in the interior of the DNA helix. The present model is compared to the one existing for DNA modified by reaction with N-AcO-AAF (DNA-AAF) (1,2).", "contents": "Conformational changes induced in DNA by in vitro reaction with N-hydroxy-N-2-aminofluorene. The conformation of DNA modified in vitro by the covalent binding of N-OH-AF was investigated by ultraviolet absorbance, circular dichroism and by radioimmunoassay using specific antibodies against Guo-AAF and nDNA-AAF. The results obtained by both physico-chemical and immunological methods are in agreement with a model involving destabilized regions in the double helical DNA around the carcinogen molecule in which, however, the -AF residues are stacked to the adjacent nucleotides. The RIA results show that the -AF residues are less accessible to antibodies in native than in denatured DNA-AF and thus suggest -AF residues partially buried in the interior of the DNA helix. The present model is compared to the one existing for DNA modified by reaction with N-AcO-AAF (DNA-AAF) (1,2).", "PMID": 450711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9424", "title": "Fluoride ion catalyzed alkylation of purines, pyrimidines, nucleosides and nucleotides using alky halides.", "content": "Alkyl halides react rapidly with purines and pyrimidines in the presence of fluoride ion. Alkylation of thymidine leads to novel dimeric nucleoside derivatives bridged through N3. Alkylation of thymidine mono and dinucleotides leads to alkylation at the base (N3) as well as diester and triester formation at the phosphate.", "contents": "Fluoride ion catalyzed alkylation of purines, pyrimidines, nucleosides and nucleotides using alky halides. Alkyl halides react rapidly with purines and pyrimidines in the presence of fluoride ion. Alkylation of thymidine leads to novel dimeric nucleoside derivatives bridged through N3. Alkylation of thymidine mono and dinucleotides leads to alkylation at the base (N3) as well as diester and triester formation at the phosphate.", "PMID": 450712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9425", "title": "Neutron scattering on nuclei.", "content": "Very small angle neutron scattering studies have been made on intact nuclei under a variety of solution conditions. Scattering maxima are observed at 30 to 40 nm and at 18 nm in most environments. Although the spacing, intensity and presence of the maximum near 40 nm varies considerably with environment the 18 nm is rather constant. The 30 to 40 nm maximum appears to be best interpreted by the presence of 35 to 50 nm diameter fibers in nuclei. An important result is that no scattering maximum was observed near 11 nm, suggesting that a tightly super coiled nucleofilament with such a pitch is not present.", "contents": "Neutron scattering on nuclei. Very small angle neutron scattering studies have been made on intact nuclei under a variety of solution conditions. Scattering maxima are observed at 30 to 40 nm and at 18 nm in most environments. Although the spacing, intensity and presence of the maximum near 40 nm varies considerably with environment the 18 nm is rather constant. The 30 to 40 nm maximum appears to be best interpreted by the presence of 35 to 50 nm diameter fibers in nuclei. An important result is that no scattering maximum was observed near 11 nm, suggesting that a tightly super coiled nucleofilament with such a pitch is not present.", "PMID": 450713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9426", "title": "Nucleosome cores reconstituted from poly (dA-dT) and the octamer of histones.", "content": "In this paper we describe a detailed investigation of the reconstitution of nucleosome cores from poly (dA-dT) and the octamer of histones. We also attempted the reconstitution from the copolymers poly dA.poly dT, poly dG.poly dC and poly (dG-dC). The repeat of the reconstituted chromatin fibre is discussed. The micrococcal nuclease released poly (dA-dT) core particle is found to contain a considerably narrower DNA size distribution that of the native random DNA nucleosome core (12). In addition we have succeeded in obtaining small crystals of the poly (dA-dT) nucleosome core. The DNAase I digestion pattern of the poly (dA-dT) containing nucleosome core is presented. The periodicity of DNAase I cutting sites is found to be about 10.5 bases and is similar to that of the native nucleosome core (12, 13).", "contents": "Nucleosome cores reconstituted from poly (dA-dT) and the octamer of histones. In this paper we describe a detailed investigation of the reconstitution of nucleosome cores from poly (dA-dT) and the octamer of histones. We also attempted the reconstitution from the copolymers poly dA.poly dT, poly dG.poly dC and poly (dG-dC). The repeat of the reconstituted chromatin fibre is discussed. The micrococcal nuclease released poly (dA-dT) core particle is found to contain a considerably narrower DNA size distribution that of the native random DNA nucleosome core (12). In addition we have succeeded in obtaining small crystals of the poly (dA-dT) nucleosome core. The DNAase I digestion pattern of the poly (dA-dT) containing nucleosome core is presented. The periodicity of DNAase I cutting sites is found to be about 10.5 bases and is similar to that of the native nucleosome core (12, 13).", "PMID": 450714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9427", "title": "The effects of salt concentration and H-1 depletion on the digestion of calf thymus chromatin by micrococcal nuclease.", "content": "We have removed histone H1 specifically from calf thymus nuclei by low pH treatment, and studied the digestion of such nuclei in comparison with undepleted nuclei. By a number of criteria the nuclei do not appear damaged. The DNA repeat-length in nuclear chromatin is found to be the same (192 +/- 4 bp) in the presence or absence of H1. These experiments demonstrate that the core histone complex of H2A, H2B, H3, and H4 can itself protect DNA sequences as long as 168 bp from nuclease. Our interpretation is that this represents an important structural element in chromatin, carrying two full turns of superhelical DNA. Depending on conditions of digestion this 168 bp fragment may be metastable and is normally rapidly converted by exonucleolytic trimming to the well-known \"core-particle\" containing 145 bp. Larger stable DNA fragments observed indigestion of H-1 depleted nuclei appear to arise from oligomers assembled from 168 bp cores in close contact exhibiting trimming of 0-20 bp at the ends. Electrophorograms of undepleted nuclear digests reveal oligomer bands in several size classes, each corresponding to one or more combinations of 168 bp particles, H1-protected spacers of about 20 bp length, and particles with ends trimmed to varying degrees.", "contents": "The effects of salt concentration and H-1 depletion on the digestion of calf thymus chromatin by micrococcal nuclease. We have removed histone H1 specifically from calf thymus nuclei by low pH treatment, and studied the digestion of such nuclei in comparison with undepleted nuclei. By a number of criteria the nuclei do not appear damaged. The DNA repeat-length in nuclear chromatin is found to be the same (192 +/- 4 bp) in the presence or absence of H1. These experiments demonstrate that the core histone complex of H2A, H2B, H3, and H4 can itself protect DNA sequences as long as 168 bp from nuclease. Our interpretation is that this represents an important structural element in chromatin, carrying two full turns of superhelical DNA. Depending on conditions of digestion this 168 bp fragment may be metastable and is normally rapidly converted by exonucleolytic trimming to the well-known \"core-particle\" containing 145 bp. Larger stable DNA fragments observed indigestion of H-1 depleted nuclei appear to arise from oligomers assembled from 168 bp cores in close contact exhibiting trimming of 0-20 bp at the ends. Electrophorograms of undepleted nuclear digests reveal oligomer bands in several size classes, each corresponding to one or more combinations of 168 bp particles, H1-protected spacers of about 20 bp length, and particles with ends trimmed to varying degrees.", "PMID": 450715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9428", "title": "Antibiotic induced electrophoretic mobility shifts of DNA restriction fragments.", "content": "Several antibiotics, netropsin, distamycin A, actinomycin D, Hoechst 33258 and olivomycin, which demonstrate base specificity in their DNA binding properties have been found to alter the electrophoretic mobility of DNA restriction fragments in native polyacrylamide gels. The antibiotics mostly reduced the migration of larger DNA fragments, but netropsin and Hoechst 33258 were observed to increase the migration rate of several DNA fragments of intermediate size. DNA fragments of similar molecular weight which comigrate as a single gel band can at times be separated as the result of differential mobility shifts promoted by antibiotic DNA complex formations.", "contents": "Antibiotic induced electrophoretic mobility shifts of DNA restriction fragments. Several antibiotics, netropsin, distamycin A, actinomycin D, Hoechst 33258 and olivomycin, which demonstrate base specificity in their DNA binding properties have been found to alter the electrophoretic mobility of DNA restriction fragments in native polyacrylamide gels. The antibiotics mostly reduced the migration of larger DNA fragments, but netropsin and Hoechst 33258 were observed to increase the migration rate of several DNA fragments of intermediate size. DNA fragments of similar molecular weight which comigrate as a single gel band can at times be separated as the result of differential mobility shifts promoted by antibiotic DNA complex formations.", "PMID": 450716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9429", "title": "The effect of antibiotics on the T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed template dependent polymerization of oligodeoxythymidylates.", "content": "The poly(dA) dependent T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed polymerization of oligodeoxythymidylates is dependent upon duplex stability. The antibiotics ethidium bromide, netropsin and Hoechst 33258 stabilize the duplex poly(dA) . P(dT)n (n = 6-10) to thermal denaturation. Ethidium bromide to DNA ratio of 1.25 and netropsin or Hoechst 33258 to DNA ratio of 0.1 the Tm of d(pT) 10 . poly (dA) was increased by 10 degrees and 25 degrees C respectively. The T4 polynucleotide ligase activity was not inhibited under these conditions and temperature optimum of joining of d(pT) 10 . poly(dA) was increased 5 degrees to 10 degrees by the binding of the antibiotics. Duplexes containing shorter oligodeoxythymidylates required lower concentrations of the antibiotics netropsin or Hoechst 33258 to show no inhibition of T4 polynucleotide ligase. The temperature optima of joining the duplexes d(pT)6 . POLY(DA) and d(pT) 8 . poly(dA) were increased by 5 degrees C upon binding of the antibiotics. Polyacrylamide gel analysis of the T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed joining of the oligodeoxythymidylates showed that the presence of antibiotics affected the product distribution of the polymerized oligomers.", "contents": "The effect of antibiotics on the T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed template dependent polymerization of oligodeoxythymidylates. The poly(dA) dependent T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed polymerization of oligodeoxythymidylates is dependent upon duplex stability. The antibiotics ethidium bromide, netropsin and Hoechst 33258 stabilize the duplex poly(dA) . P(dT)n (n = 6-10) to thermal denaturation. Ethidium bromide to DNA ratio of 1.25 and netropsin or Hoechst 33258 to DNA ratio of 0.1 the Tm of d(pT) 10 . poly (dA) was increased by 10 degrees and 25 degrees C respectively. The T4 polynucleotide ligase activity was not inhibited under these conditions and temperature optimum of joining of d(pT) 10 . poly(dA) was increased 5 degrees to 10 degrees by the binding of the antibiotics. Duplexes containing shorter oligodeoxythymidylates required lower concentrations of the antibiotics netropsin or Hoechst 33258 to show no inhibition of T4 polynucleotide ligase. The temperature optima of joining the duplexes d(pT)6 . POLY(DA) and d(pT) 8 . poly(dA) were increased by 5 degrees C upon binding of the antibiotics. Polyacrylamide gel analysis of the T4 polynucleotide ligase catalyzed joining of the oligodeoxythymidylates showed that the presence of antibiotics affected the product distribution of the polymerized oligomers.", "PMID": 450717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9430", "title": "Properties of in vitro transcription by isolated Xenopus oocyte nucleoli.", "content": "Some properties of in vitro transcription by isolated Xenopus oocyte nucleoli were described. When incubated with labeled RNA precursors, Xenopus oocyte nucleoli exhibited prolonged incorporation of radioactivity into RNA. The synthetic activity was exclusively due to type I RNA polymerase as revealed by its insensitivity to low and high doses of alpha-amanitin. The size of the in vitro transcript was mostly larger than 28S at 10 minute incubation and became smaller as incubation proceeded. When [gamma-32P]ATP was included in the reaction mixture, 32P radioactivity was incorporated into RNA suggesting the possible initiation of transcription in this system. However, analysis of the terminal nucleotide of the transcript revealed that the incorporation of radioactivity from [gamma-32P]ATP was not due to the initiation of transcription but due to polynucleotide kinase activity in the nucleolar preparation. These results demonstrate that the incorporation of radioactivity from [gamma-32P] labeled nucleoside triphosphates cannot necessarily be regarded as an index of the initiation of transcription.", "contents": "Properties of in vitro transcription by isolated Xenopus oocyte nucleoli. Some properties of in vitro transcription by isolated Xenopus oocyte nucleoli were described. When incubated with labeled RNA precursors, Xenopus oocyte nucleoli exhibited prolonged incorporation of radioactivity into RNA. The synthetic activity was exclusively due to type I RNA polymerase as revealed by its insensitivity to low and high doses of alpha-amanitin. The size of the in vitro transcript was mostly larger than 28S at 10 minute incubation and became smaller as incubation proceeded. When [gamma-32P]ATP was included in the reaction mixture, 32P radioactivity was incorporated into RNA suggesting the possible initiation of transcription in this system. However, analysis of the terminal nucleotide of the transcript revealed that the incorporation of radioactivity from [gamma-32P]ATP was not due to the initiation of transcription but due to polynucleotide kinase activity in the nucleolar preparation. These results demonstrate that the incorporation of radioactivity from [gamma-32P] labeled nucleoside triphosphates cannot necessarily be regarded as an index of the initiation of transcription.", "PMID": 450718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9431", "title": "The expression of a plant genome in hnRNA and mRNA.", "content": "Representation of genomic kinetic sequence classes and sequence complexities were investigated in nuclear and polysomal RNA of the higher plant Petroselinum sativum (parsley). Two different methods indicated that most if not all polysomal poly(A) -RNA is transcribed from unique sequences. As measured by saturation hybridization in root callus and young leaves 8.7% and 6.2%, respectively, of unique DNA were transcribed in mRNA corresponding to 13.700 and 10.000 average sized genes. Unique nuclear DNA hybridized with an excess of polysomal poly(A)mRNA to the same extent as with total polysomal RNA. 3H-cDNA - poly(A)mRNA hybridization kinetics revealed the presence of two abundance classes with 9.200 and about 30 different mRNAs in leaves and two abundance classes with 10.500 and 960 different mRNAs in callus cells. The existence of plant poly(A)hnRNA was proven both by its fast kinetics of appearance, its length distribution larger than mRNA, and its sequence complexity a few times that of polysomal RNA.", "contents": "The expression of a plant genome in hnRNA and mRNA. Representation of genomic kinetic sequence classes and sequence complexities were investigated in nuclear and polysomal RNA of the higher plant Petroselinum sativum (parsley). Two different methods indicated that most if not all polysomal poly(A) -RNA is transcribed from unique sequences. As measured by saturation hybridization in root callus and young leaves 8.7% and 6.2%, respectively, of unique DNA were transcribed in mRNA corresponding to 13.700 and 10.000 average sized genes. Unique nuclear DNA hybridized with an excess of polysomal poly(A)mRNA to the same extent as with total polysomal RNA. 3H-cDNA - poly(A)mRNA hybridization kinetics revealed the presence of two abundance classes with 9.200 and about 30 different mRNAs in leaves and two abundance classes with 10.500 and 960 different mRNAs in callus cells. The existence of plant poly(A)hnRNA was proven both by its fast kinetics of appearance, its length distribution larger than mRNA, and its sequence complexity a few times that of polysomal RNA.", "PMID": 450719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9432", "title": "Heteroduplexes of phiX174 and G4 DNAs: orientation to genetic map and comparison with predictions from nucleotide sequences.", "content": "Heteroduplexes between the viral DNA of phiX174 and DNA from the replicative form (RF) of phage G4 were examined by electron microscopy. The single Eco RI site of G4-RF was utilized as a physical marker by preparing the heteroduplexes from the denatured, linear DNA obtained by restricting G4-RF with Eco RI endonuclease. Restriction fragments of phiX were used in a separate series of heteroduplexes to align the heteroduplex map and the G4 Eco RI site with the similar genetic maps of the two phages. The positions of the branch migrating junctions of recombinant phiX-G4 figure-8s, previously located only with respect to the G4-Eco RI site, have now been located with high proability within the gene A region of the two genomes. The degree of mismatch between the known nucleotide sequences of phi X and G4 accounts for positions of all of the regions of single-strandedness in the observed heteroduplexes, but unexplained discrepancies were also found.", "contents": "Heteroduplexes of phiX174 and G4 DNAs: orientation to genetic map and comparison with predictions from nucleotide sequences. Heteroduplexes between the viral DNA of phiX174 and DNA from the replicative form (RF) of phage G4 were examined by electron microscopy. The single Eco RI site of G4-RF was utilized as a physical marker by preparing the heteroduplexes from the denatured, linear DNA obtained by restricting G4-RF with Eco RI endonuclease. Restriction fragments of phiX were used in a separate series of heteroduplexes to align the heteroduplex map and the G4 Eco RI site with the similar genetic maps of the two phages. The positions of the branch migrating junctions of recombinant phiX-G4 figure-8s, previously located only with respect to the G4-Eco RI site, have now been located with high proability within the gene A region of the two genomes. The degree of mismatch between the known nucleotide sequences of phi X and G4 accounts for positions of all of the regions of single-strandedness in the observed heteroduplexes, but unexplained discrepancies were also found.", "PMID": 450720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9433", "title": "Photochemical cross-linking of secondary structure in HeLa cell heterogeneous nuclear RNA in situ 1.", "content": "The psoralen derivative 4'-hydroxymethyl-4, 5', 8-trimethylpsoralen (hydroxymethyltrioxsalen) has been used in experiments with isolated HeLa cell nuclei to photochemically cross-link double helical regions in heterogeneous nuclear RNA in situ. Although there are other self-complementary sequences in hnRNA that can form base-paired structures upon phenol deproteinization of annealing, the present in situ cross-linking results demonstrate that some double-stranded regions are an authentic component of native hnRNA structure. Moreover, these special regions of secondary structure are apparently highly accessible to chemical probes within the intact cell nucleus, despite the fact that hnRNA possesses a ribonucleoprotein organization.", "contents": "Photochemical cross-linking of secondary structure in HeLa cell heterogeneous nuclear RNA in situ 1. The psoralen derivative 4'-hydroxymethyl-4, 5', 8-trimethylpsoralen (hydroxymethyltrioxsalen) has been used in experiments with isolated HeLa cell nuclei to photochemically cross-link double helical regions in heterogeneous nuclear RNA in situ. Although there are other self-complementary sequences in hnRNA that can form base-paired structures upon phenol deproteinization of annealing, the present in situ cross-linking results demonstrate that some double-stranded regions are an authentic component of native hnRNA structure. Moreover, these special regions of secondary structure are apparently highly accessible to chemical probes within the intact cell nucleus, despite the fact that hnRNA possesses a ribonucleoprotein organization.", "PMID": 450721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9434", "title": "Studies on the structure of isolated chromatin in three different solvents.", "content": "Properties of calf thymus chromatin, prepared by mild procedures, have been studied in various solvents. In 0.2 mM EDTA s-values ranged from 20 to 30 S and intrinsic viscosities from 5 to 24 dl/g. Dialysis against 0.15 M NaCl or 0.2 mM MgCl2 changed these values to 80 to 100 S and 0.2 to 5 dl/g, respectively, indicating an essentially more compact structure. In 0.2 mM EDTA X-ray scattering yielded a cross section diameter of 9 nm, which is associated with the tertiary structure of chromatin fiber (M/L = 21200 Dalton/nm). By dialysis against 0.15 M NaCl or 0.2 mM MgCl2 part of the material spontaneously formed quarterny structures (cross section diameters 25-29 nm). The rest of the material with cross section diameters less than 9 nm is supposed to be more strongly sheared tertiary structure which seems to be unable to form quarterny structure due to artificial conformational changes.", "contents": "Studies on the structure of isolated chromatin in three different solvents. Properties of calf thymus chromatin, prepared by mild procedures, have been studied in various solvents. In 0.2 mM EDTA s-values ranged from 20 to 30 S and intrinsic viscosities from 5 to 24 dl/g. Dialysis against 0.15 M NaCl or 0.2 mM MgCl2 changed these values to 80 to 100 S and 0.2 to 5 dl/g, respectively, indicating an essentially more compact structure. In 0.2 mM EDTA X-ray scattering yielded a cross section diameter of 9 nm, which is associated with the tertiary structure of chromatin fiber (M/L = 21200 Dalton/nm). By dialysis against 0.15 M NaCl or 0.2 mM MgCl2 part of the material spontaneously formed quarterny structures (cross section diameters 25-29 nm). The rest of the material with cross section diameters less than 9 nm is supposed to be more strongly sheared tertiary structure which seems to be unable to form quarterny structure due to artificial conformational changes.", "PMID": 450722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9435", "title": "The use of ultraviolet light in the fractionation of chromatin containing unsubstituted and bromodeoxyuridine-substituted DNA.", "content": "Two procedures are described for the fractionation of chromatin containing unsubstituted (LL) DNA and DNA unifilarly substituted with bromodeoxyuridine (HL). The two procedures rely upon the sensitivity of bromodeoxyuridine-containing DNA to UV light to induce either strand breakage or protein crosslinking. When a mixture of LL and HL chromatin is irradiated with UV light, the HL DNA fragments into molecules of smaller molecular weight than the LL DNA and crosslinks more chromosomal protein than the LL DNA. LL and HL chromatin can be fractionated on the basis of size by centrifuging through a neutral sucrose gradient. The HL DNA-protein adducts that are generated by the UV light have a unique buoyant density and may be isolated by isopycnic centrifugation in CS2SO4. The ability to fractionate LL and HL chromatin permits certain studies on the structure of replicating chromatin.", "contents": "The use of ultraviolet light in the fractionation of chromatin containing unsubstituted and bromodeoxyuridine-substituted DNA. Two procedures are described for the fractionation of chromatin containing unsubstituted (LL) DNA and DNA unifilarly substituted with bromodeoxyuridine (HL). The two procedures rely upon the sensitivity of bromodeoxyuridine-containing DNA to UV light to induce either strand breakage or protein crosslinking. When a mixture of LL and HL chromatin is irradiated with UV light, the HL DNA fragments into molecules of smaller molecular weight than the LL DNA and crosslinks more chromosomal protein than the LL DNA. LL and HL chromatin can be fractionated on the basis of size by centrifuging through a neutral sucrose gradient. The HL DNA-protein adducts that are generated by the UV light have a unique buoyant density and may be isolated by isopycnic centrifugation in CS2SO4. The ability to fractionate LL and HL chromatin permits certain studies on the structure of replicating chromatin.", "PMID": 450723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9436", "title": "The pros and cons of estrogen therapy.", "content": "Hormone deficiency is the most obvious indication for its use, but estrogen therapy is sometimes beneficial in other conditions. Since rather serious complications are now being associated with such therapy, however, a decision to use estrogen calls for caution in determining the dose and the duration of administration.", "contents": "The pros and cons of estrogen therapy. Hormone deficiency is the most obvious indication for its use, but estrogen therapy is sometimes beneficial in other conditions. Since rather serious complications are now being associated with such therapy, however, a decision to use estrogen calls for caution in determining the dose and the duration of administration.", "PMID": 450808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9437", "title": "Acute abdominal pain in childhood. Finding the cause.", "content": "The child with acute abdominal pain poses a problem of differential diagnosis. Selection of diagnostic studies and initial management depends on the unique characteristics of history or physical examination that narrow the range of possible underlying causes.", "contents": "Acute abdominal pain in childhood. Finding the cause. The child with acute abdominal pain poses a problem of differential diagnosis. Selection of diagnostic studies and initial management depends on the unique characteristics of history or physical examination that narrow the range of possible underlying causes.", "PMID": 450809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9438", "title": "Varicose veins. Their symptoms, complications, and management.", "content": "Varicose veins are a common problem that still presents a major challenge to the physician and the patient. Complete surgical removal of the malfunctioning veins has proved to be the most effective management for significant varicosities, although several nonsurgical methods are available for mild cases or those not suitable for surgery.", "contents": "Varicose veins. Their symptoms, complications, and management. Varicose veins are a common problem that still presents a major challenge to the physician and the patient. Complete surgical removal of the malfunctioning veins has proved to be the most effective management for significant varicosities, although several nonsurgical methods are available for mild cases or those not suitable for surgery.", "PMID": 450810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9439", "title": "Pseudoleukemia: when \"leukemia\" is not leukemia.", "content": "Several case reports6-8 in the literature have pointed out that a clinical and morphologic picture resembling that of acute leukemia may be secondary to infection or use of toxic drugs or alcohol. In these cases, the leukemic picture spontaneously returns to normal when the precipitating factor is no longer present. This condition has been termed pseudoleukemia. Unless the history of a precipitating factor is clear, the patient may be wrongly treated for leukemia. In the case reported here, initial findings suggested acute promyelocytic leukemia and chemotherapy was planned, but further investigation indicated that the condition was essentially reactive and related to a presumed viral infection. Even though pseudoleukemia is sometimes described as a leukemoid reaction, we believe that the term \"pseudoleukemia\" should be reserved for more specific differentiation.", "contents": "Pseudoleukemia: when \"leukemia\" is not leukemia. Several case reports6-8 in the literature have pointed out that a clinical and morphologic picture resembling that of acute leukemia may be secondary to infection or use of toxic drugs or alcohol. In these cases, the leukemic picture spontaneously returns to normal when the precipitating factor is no longer present. This condition has been termed pseudoleukemia. Unless the history of a precipitating factor is clear, the patient may be wrongly treated for leukemia. In the case reported here, initial findings suggested acute promyelocytic leukemia and chemotherapy was planned, but further investigation indicated that the condition was essentially reactive and related to a presumed viral infection. Even though pseudoleukemia is sometimes described as a leukemoid reaction, we believe that the term \"pseudoleukemia\" should be reserved for more specific differentiation.", "PMID": 450811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9440", "title": "Verifying the validity of outcome.", "content": "The first article in this series, published in May (page 241), dealt with selection bias and described how to tell if it had crept into a clinical study. This article focuses on the next step in critically evaluating a study: How to assess validity of outcome. Examples illustrate the consequences of failure to fulfill each of the four criteria of valid measurement of outcome.", "contents": "Verifying the validity of outcome. The first article in this series, published in May (page 241), dealt with selection bias and described how to tell if it had crept into a clinical study. This article focuses on the next step in critically evaluating a study: How to assess validity of outcome. Examples illustrate the consequences of failure to fulfill each of the four criteria of valid measurement of outcome.", "PMID": 450812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9441", "title": "Genetic causes and workup of male and female infertility. 2. Abnormalities presenting between birth and adult life.", "content": "At birth some 6/1,000 persons have chromosome abnormalities; in about 60% of cases these abnormalities cause death or infertility, and in one third fertility is reduced. Some 1.7% of persons (3.4% of couples) with recurrent spontaneous abortion, infertility, or both have a chromosome abnormality. Chromosome abnormalities are far more common in men than in women with infertility; 15% to 20% of men with azoospermia have the Klinefelter syndrome. Meiotic defects explain 20% of male infertility in patients with apparently normal somatic chromosomes. Congenital malformations of the genitalia are more common in males than in females; about 0.82% of liveborn males have hypospadias. Almost one sixth of women with primary amenorrhea have some form of m\u00fcllerian atresia, usually with associated renal anomalies.", "contents": "Genetic causes and workup of male and female infertility. 2. Abnormalities presenting between birth and adult life. At birth some 6/1,000 persons have chromosome abnormalities; in about 60% of cases these abnormalities cause death or infertility, and in one third fertility is reduced. Some 1.7% of persons (3.4% of couples) with recurrent spontaneous abortion, infertility, or both have a chromosome abnormality. Chromosome abnormalities are far more common in men than in women with infertility; 15% to 20% of men with azoospermia have the Klinefelter syndrome. Meiotic defects explain 20% of male infertility in patients with apparently normal somatic chromosomes. Congenital malformations of the genitalia are more common in males than in females; about 0.82% of liveborn males have hypospadias. Almost one sixth of women with primary amenorrhea have some form of m\u00fcllerian atresia, usually with associated renal anomalies.", "PMID": 450814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9442", "title": "Disorders of defecation in children: evaluation and management.", "content": "In a series of 123 children with disorders of defecation, constipation was the main problem in 89 and fecal incontinence in 34. All but three of the latter also had constipation. The principal physical findings were abdominal protuberance with palpable stool in the bowel and the presence of a fecal mass in the rectal ampulla. Laboratory and radiologic findings were nonspecific except in two of the three patients found to have congenital megacolon (Hirschsprung's disease). Rectal suction biopsy, performed in 69 patients, was diagnostic in all three with Hirschsprung's disease. Anorectal manometry, done in 11 patients, was of limited value. In general, treatment consists of patience and understanding on the part of physician and family, a regimen of orally administered (noncathartic) laxatives with dose gradually reduced over weeks to months, frequent telephone communication between physician and parents, and occasional office visits. Patients with nonretentive fecal incontinence require an intensive psychologic approach. A patient, empathetic, and available physician is one of the most important ingredients in the treatment regimen.", "contents": "Disorders of defecation in children: evaluation and management. In a series of 123 children with disorders of defecation, constipation was the main problem in 89 and fecal incontinence in 34. All but three of the latter also had constipation. The principal physical findings were abdominal protuberance with palpable stool in the bowel and the presence of a fecal mass in the rectal ampulla. Laboratory and radiologic findings were nonspecific except in two of the three patients found to have congenital megacolon (Hirschsprung's disease). Rectal suction biopsy, performed in 69 patients, was diagnostic in all three with Hirschsprung's disease. Anorectal manometry, done in 11 patients, was of limited value. In general, treatment consists of patience and understanding on the part of physician and family, a regimen of orally administered (noncathartic) laxatives with dose gradually reduced over weeks to months, frequent telephone communication between physician and parents, and occasional office visits. Patients with nonretentive fecal incontinence require an intensive psychologic approach. A patient, empathetic, and available physician is one of the most important ingredients in the treatment regimen.", "PMID": 450820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9443", "title": "Primary care of the injured hand, part 1.", "content": "Because the hand is the most frequently injured part of the body, primary recognition of injured structures, careful assessment of damage, and appropriate treatment or referral by the primary care physician are critical. Most fingertip injuries heal with conservative care. Ideally, the healed wound should be covered with well-padded skin, be free of scar tissue, and not adhere to underlying bone. Crushing fingertip injuries associated with underlying fractures are often overlooked initially, with resultant infection, nonunion, and nail deformity. In the evaluation of flexor tendon injuries, recognition of the location of severed tendon is critical. Improved surgical techniques, when performed by an experienced hand surgeon, have yielded gratifying results, especially in the primary repair of tendon severance in the distal portion of the digit and palm. Mallet deformities at the distal interphalangeal joint are treated with extension splinting for minimum of six weeks without immobilization of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Open reduction is often required when an associated fracture involves more than 30% of the articular surface.", "contents": "Primary care of the injured hand, part 1. Because the hand is the most frequently injured part of the body, primary recognition of injured structures, careful assessment of damage, and appropriate treatment or referral by the primary care physician are critical. Most fingertip injuries heal with conservative care. Ideally, the healed wound should be covered with well-padded skin, be free of scar tissue, and not adhere to underlying bone. Crushing fingertip injuries associated with underlying fractures are often overlooked initially, with resultant infection, nonunion, and nail deformity. In the evaluation of flexor tendon injuries, recognition of the location of severed tendon is critical. Improved surgical techniques, when performed by an experienced hand surgeon, have yielded gratifying results, especially in the primary repair of tendon severance in the distal portion of the digit and palm. Mallet deformities at the distal interphalangeal joint are treated with extension splinting for minimum of six weeks without immobilization of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Open reduction is often required when an associated fracture involves more than 30% of the articular surface.", "PMID": 450821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9444", "title": "Primary care of the injured hand, part 2.", "content": "Nerve injuries in the forearm and hand are common, especially with concomitant tendon lacerations. The optimal time for repair of a clean sharp laceration is within the first 24 to 48 hours using magnification to achieve precise surgical reapproximation. Transfer to a facility equipped to perform replantation is indicated for multiple digit amputations, any thumb amputation, transmetacarpal amputation, wrist and arm amputation, and major amputations in children. Acute paronychial infections are treated with warm soaks, antibiotics, elevation, and immobilization. Surgical drainage is often indicated for a felon and should be done through a high midaxial incision. fractures of the hand are extremely common and require accurate diagnosis and precise anatomic reduction. Ensheathment syndromes--carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, de Quervain's disease--are the most common nontraumatic disorders of the hand. If recognized and treated early they may resolve without need for surgery.", "contents": "Primary care of the injured hand, part 2. Nerve injuries in the forearm and hand are common, especially with concomitant tendon lacerations. The optimal time for repair of a clean sharp laceration is within the first 24 to 48 hours using magnification to achieve precise surgical reapproximation. Transfer to a facility equipped to perform replantation is indicated for multiple digit amputations, any thumb amputation, transmetacarpal amputation, wrist and arm amputation, and major amputations in children. Acute paronychial infections are treated with warm soaks, antibiotics, elevation, and immobilization. Surgical drainage is often indicated for a felon and should be done through a high midaxial incision. fractures of the hand are extremely common and require accurate diagnosis and precise anatomic reduction. Ensheathment syndromes--carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, de Quervain's disease--are the most common nontraumatic disorders of the hand. If recognized and treated early they may resolve without need for surgery.", "PMID": 450822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9445", "title": "Psychogenic fever: entity or nonentity?", "content": "A review of the literature suggests that body temperature may rise when a person is under emotional stress. The term \"psychogenic fever\" has been applied to this phenomenon. A study of temperature and pulse rate of psychiatric patients diagnosed predominantly as neurotic in a university teaching hospital was undertaken. Changes in pulse rate indicated that the period before ward rounds was more stressful than other times of the day. However, psychogenic fever in these patients was not found. One case of factitious fever was uncovered during the study.", "contents": "Psychogenic fever: entity or nonentity? A review of the literature suggests that body temperature may rise when a person is under emotional stress. The term \"psychogenic fever\" has been applied to this phenomenon. A study of temperature and pulse rate of psychiatric patients diagnosed predominantly as neurotic in a university teaching hospital was undertaken. Changes in pulse rate indicated that the period before ward rounds was more stressful than other times of the day. However, psychogenic fever in these patients was not found. One case of factitious fever was uncovered during the study.", "PMID": 450825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9446", "title": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia. 1. Warm antibody type.", "content": "Diagnosis of the idiopathic warm antibody type of autoimmune hemolytic anemia requires evidence for hemolysis and autoimmunity against RBC's ie, a positive direct antihuman globulin test. In addition, underlying disease states and drug therapy must be excluded as causative factors. Therapeutic measures are aimed at suppression of autoantibody production and include steroids (usually prednisone in tapering dosage), splenectomy, and less commonly, immunosuppressive agents.", "contents": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia. 1. Warm antibody type. Diagnosis of the idiopathic warm antibody type of autoimmune hemolytic anemia requires evidence for hemolysis and autoimmunity against RBC's ie, a positive direct antihuman globulin test. In addition, underlying disease states and drug therapy must be excluded as causative factors. Therapeutic measures are aimed at suppression of autoantibody production and include steroids (usually prednisone in tapering dosage), splenectomy, and less commonly, immunosuppressive agents.", "PMID": 450827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9447", "title": "Contributory cause: unnecessary and insufficient.", "content": "Contributory cause is a clinically useful concept of causation. It requires demonstration that (1) the presumed cause precedes the effect and (2) altering the cause alters the effect. It does not require that all those who possess the contributory cause experience the effect. It does not require that all those who are free of the contributory cause be free of the effect. In other words, a clinical cause may be neither necessary or sufficient but it must be contributory.", "contents": "Contributory cause: unnecessary and insufficient. Contributory cause is a clinically useful concept of causation. It requires demonstration that (1) the presumed cause precedes the effect and (2) altering the cause alters the effect. It does not require that all those who possess the contributory cause experience the effect. It does not require that all those who are free of the contributory cause be free of the effect. In other words, a clinical cause may be neither necessary or sufficient but it must be contributory.", "PMID": 450828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9448", "title": "Myasthenia gravis: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy.", "content": "Myasthenia gravis most commonly affects the ocular muscles. Abnormal fatigability of the involved muscle groups is the most remarkable feature of the physical examination. Recent studies have demonstrated that a thymus-derived antibody plays a role in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis, which is now thought to be an autoimmune disorder. Its association with other autoimmune disorders has been recognized for some time. A high index of suspicion is the most essential element in diagnosis. Rapid and reproducible response to administration of anticholinesterase leaves little doubt of the diagnosis, but characteristic EMG findings in myasthenic muscle evoked by repetitive stimulation of peripheral motor nerve are definitive. Anticholinesterase drugs are the mainstay of therapy. Thymectomy is indicated in patients with thymoma and in some young persons with serious disease. Patients who respond poorly to anticholinesterase therapy or surgery are candidates for steroid therapy.", "contents": "Myasthenia gravis: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy. Myasthenia gravis most commonly affects the ocular muscles. Abnormal fatigability of the involved muscle groups is the most remarkable feature of the physical examination. Recent studies have demonstrated that a thymus-derived antibody plays a role in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis, which is now thought to be an autoimmune disorder. Its association with other autoimmune disorders has been recognized for some time. A high index of suspicion is the most essential element in diagnosis. Rapid and reproducible response to administration of anticholinesterase leaves little doubt of the diagnosis, but characteristic EMG findings in myasthenic muscle evoked by repetitive stimulation of peripheral motor nerve are definitive. Anticholinesterase drugs are the mainstay of therapy. Thymectomy is indicated in patients with thymoma and in some young persons with serious disease. Patients who respond poorly to anticholinesterase therapy or surgery are candidates for steroid therapy.", "PMID": 450830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9449", "title": "Cluster headache: relation to and comparison with migraine.", "content": "Numerous factors, such as location of pain, sex, frequency and pattern of occurrence, and symptoms, distinguish cluster headache from migraine. Cluster headache is characterized by severe unilateral periorbital pain. Attacks lasting from several minutes to several hours occur many times a day over a period of weeks to months. Opinions differ as to whether cluster headache is a variant of migraine or a completely different disorder. For relatively mild attacks, abortive treatment with ergotamine tartrate is usually successful. Cases which do not respond to abortive measures require prophylaxis.", "contents": "Cluster headache: relation to and comparison with migraine. Numerous factors, such as location of pain, sex, frequency and pattern of occurrence, and symptoms, distinguish cluster headache from migraine. Cluster headache is characterized by severe unilateral periorbital pain. Attacks lasting from several minutes to several hours occur many times a day over a period of weeks to months. Opinions differ as to whether cluster headache is a variant of migraine or a completely different disorder. For relatively mild attacks, abortive treatment with ergotamine tartrate is usually successful. Cases which do not respond to abortive measures require prophylaxis.", "PMID": 450831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9450", "title": "[Indications and value of chest radiography in patients with respiratory insufficiency (author's transl)].", "content": "Chest X-rays of patients with respiratory insufficiency provide different information depending on the stage of the disease. The indications for chest radiography should, therefore, be determined by whether the examination is intended to establish the diagnosis and causes of the respiratory disease, to arrive at the differential diagnosis or test the efficacy of treatment.", "contents": "[Indications and value of chest radiography in patients with respiratory insufficiency (author's transl)]. Chest X-rays of patients with respiratory insufficiency provide different information depending on the stage of the disease. The indications for chest radiography should, therefore, be determined by whether the examination is intended to establish the diagnosis and causes of the respiratory disease, to arrive at the differential diagnosis or test the efficacy of treatment.", "PMID": 450843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9451", "title": "[Interpretation of chest roentgenograms of intensive care patients. A comparison of pathoanatomical and roentgenographic findings (author's transl)].", "content": "Chest roentgenograms made within 24 hours of death were compared to the autopsy findings. Out of 150 unselected autopsy records of the years 1973/74 and 1976/77 50 and 91 cases respectively were suitable for evaluation. Since 1973/74 the radiographic technique has been considerably changed by the introduction of powerful condenser discharge equipment and the use of highly intensifying screens. Daily discussions with the physicians in charge of the intensive care unit and routine comparison of the pathological and radiological findings were also introduced. The success of these measures is reflected in the greater diagnostic accuracy in respect of the case material for the 1976/77 period. Comparison of the findings in cases of pulmonary embolism exposed the limitation of diagnostic radiology.", "contents": "[Interpretation of chest roentgenograms of intensive care patients. A comparison of pathoanatomical and roentgenographic findings (author's transl)]. Chest roentgenograms made within 24 hours of death were compared to the autopsy findings. Out of 150 unselected autopsy records of the years 1973/74 and 1976/77 50 and 91 cases respectively were suitable for evaluation. Since 1973/74 the radiographic technique has been considerably changed by the introduction of powerful condenser discharge equipment and the use of highly intensifying screens. Daily discussions with the physicians in charge of the intensive care unit and routine comparison of the pathological and radiological findings were also introduced. The success of these measures is reflected in the greater diagnostic accuracy in respect of the case material for the 1976/77 period. Comparison of the findings in cases of pulmonary embolism exposed the limitation of diagnostic radiology.", "PMID": 450844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9452", "title": "[Classification of x-ray findings and correlated oxygen tensions in \"shock lung\" (author's transl)].", "content": "The classification of the radiological features of the \"shock lung\" into stages represents a description of the characteristic radiological changes as they develop in the course of the lesion. As these changes do not succeed each other step by step but are superimposed their attribution to a particular stage therefore describes only the dominant substrate. Since the radiological changes and the corresponding oxygen tensions generally show satisfactory correlation a lack of correspondence during treatment may be an early sign of secondary disturbances or complications.", "contents": "[Classification of x-ray findings and correlated oxygen tensions in \"shock lung\" (author's transl)]. The classification of the radiological features of the \"shock lung\" into stages represents a description of the characteristic radiological changes as they develop in the course of the lesion. As these changes do not succeed each other step by step but are superimposed their attribution to a particular stage therefore describes only the dominant substrate. Since the radiological changes and the corresponding oxygen tensions generally show satisfactory correlation a lack of correspondence during treatment may be an early sign of secondary disturbances or complications.", "PMID": 450845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9453", "title": "[The chest roentgenogram during artificial respiration (author's transl)].", "content": "Chest roentgenography of artificially ventilated persons not only reveals morphological changes in the lungs but may also provide information regarding their pathogenesis and prognosis. To safeguard against misinterpretation of the findings they should be supplemented by blood gas analyses and function tests (e.g. effective compliance of the respiratory system). The chest roentgenogram also apprises of the development, and consequently of the need for treatment, of such complications as interstital emphysema, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum and subcutaneous emphysema.", "contents": "[The chest roentgenogram during artificial respiration (author's transl)]. Chest roentgenography of artificially ventilated persons not only reveals morphological changes in the lungs but may also provide information regarding their pathogenesis and prognosis. To safeguard against misinterpretation of the findings they should be supplemented by blood gas analyses and function tests (e.g. effective compliance of the respiratory system). The chest roentgenogram also apprises of the development, and consequently of the need for treatment, of such complications as interstital emphysema, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum and subcutaneous emphysema.", "PMID": 450846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9454", "title": "[Chest radiography for the detection of accidents during intensive care procedures (author's transl)].", "content": "One of the indications for chest radiography in intensive care units is the diagnosis for mishaps or sequelae arising, e.g., from failure to insert a central venous catheter, wrong position of the catheter, a too deeply inserted tracheal tube, a wrongly sited gastric catheter; also to find the causes of, e.g., lack of stimulation by a pacemaker or ineffective thorax drainage. Success in this type of diagnostic radiography presupposes a competent technique, radiopaque catheter material and a thorough acquaintance on the part of the radiologist with the procedures employed in intensive care. Abb. 7 a.", "contents": "[Chest radiography for the detection of accidents during intensive care procedures (author's transl)]. One of the indications for chest radiography in intensive care units is the diagnosis for mishaps or sequelae arising, e.g., from failure to insert a central venous catheter, wrong position of the catheter, a too deeply inserted tracheal tube, a wrongly sited gastric catheter; also to find the causes of, e.g., lack of stimulation by a pacemaker or ineffective thorax drainage. Success in this type of diagnostic radiography presupposes a competent technique, radiopaque catheter material and a thorough acquaintance on the part of the radiologist with the procedures employed in intensive care. Abb. 7 a.", "PMID": 450847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9455", "title": "[Misinterpretation of chest roentgenogram in intensive care patients (author's transl)].", "content": "Misinterpretation of chest roentgenograms in intensive care patients can be largely obviated by a skilled technique and a thorough knowledge on the part of the radiologist of the structural changes in the lungs and their differential diagnostic significance. Correct interpretation is facilitated by relating the observed changes to the pathophysiological clinical findings.", "contents": "[Misinterpretation of chest roentgenogram in intensive care patients (author's transl)]. Misinterpretation of chest roentgenograms in intensive care patients can be largely obviated by a skilled technique and a thorough knowledge on the part of the radiologist of the structural changes in the lungs and their differential diagnostic significance. Correct interpretation is facilitated by relating the observed changes to the pathophysiological clinical findings.", "PMID": 450848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9456", "title": "[Radiological changes of the lungs induced by inhalation of irritating gases (author's transl)].", "content": "The radiological changes and clinical symptoms induced by in 109 persons by inhalation of irritant gases are described. Seven persons developed pulmonary oedema, abnormal radiological manifestations were observed in 19 while 81 persons there were no detectable radiological changes. Toxic pulmonary oedema is frequently detected earlier by roentgenologic means than clinically. The length of the radiological latent period depends not only on the concentration of the irritant but also on the type of the gaseous substance. The first roentgenologic signs of toxic pulmonary oedema are broadening and blurring of the outline of the hilar vessels. The pulmonary changes are characterized initially by disseminated small to medium sized shadows in the central portion and base of the lungs; later they tend to spread and merge.", "contents": "[Radiological changes of the lungs induced by inhalation of irritating gases (author's transl)]. The radiological changes and clinical symptoms induced by in 109 persons by inhalation of irritant gases are described. Seven persons developed pulmonary oedema, abnormal radiological manifestations were observed in 19 while 81 persons there were no detectable radiological changes. Toxic pulmonary oedema is frequently detected earlier by roentgenologic means than clinically. The length of the radiological latent period depends not only on the concentration of the irritant but also on the type of the gaseous substance. The first roentgenologic signs of toxic pulmonary oedema are broadening and blurring of the outline of the hilar vessels. The pulmonary changes are characterized initially by disseminated small to medium sized shadows in the central portion and base of the lungs; later they tend to spread and merge.", "PMID": 450849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9457", "title": "[Pneumoperitoneum induced by artificial respiration and its diagnosis by peritonel lavage (author's transl)].", "content": "Ventilation with increased end-exspiratory pressure may, especially in cases of blunt chest trauma, result in pneumoperitoneum although there are no intestinal injuries. The case histories of four persons who developed this complication are reviewed. Differentiation between such a complication and a condition requiring laparotomy is often difficult because other injuries, particularly a cerebrocranial trauma, may obscure the clinical symptoms. Diagnostic peritoneal lavage may help towards differentiating between a ventilation-induced pneumoperitoneum and an \"acute abdomen\" caused by perforation or rupture of an intra-abdominal hallow organ.", "contents": "[Pneumoperitoneum induced by artificial respiration and its diagnosis by peritonel lavage (author's transl)]. Ventilation with increased end-exspiratory pressure may, especially in cases of blunt chest trauma, result in pneumoperitoneum although there are no intestinal injuries. The case histories of four persons who developed this complication are reviewed. Differentiation between such a complication and a condition requiring laparotomy is often difficult because other injuries, particularly a cerebrocranial trauma, may obscure the clinical symptoms. Diagnostic peritoneal lavage may help towards differentiating between a ventilation-induced pneumoperitoneum and an \"acute abdomen\" caused by perforation or rupture of an intra-abdominal hallow organ.", "PMID": 450850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9458", "title": "[A new apparatus for the continuous measurement of the concentration of anaesthetic vapours (author's transl)].", "content": "A new apparatus is described for the continuous on-line estimation of the concentration of anaesthetic vapours. The results obtained with the apparatus for halothane were compared with those registered by a mass spectrometer; there was excellent agreement (r = 0.999). The equipment is very manageable and has already proved its value is anaesthetic practice.", "contents": "[A new apparatus for the continuous measurement of the concentration of anaesthetic vapours (author's transl)]. A new apparatus is described for the continuous on-line estimation of the concentration of anaesthetic vapours. The results obtained with the apparatus for halothane were compared with those registered by a mass spectrometer; there was excellent agreement (r = 0.999). The equipment is very manageable and has already proved its value is anaesthetic practice.", "PMID": 450851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9459", "title": "[X-ray equipment for standardized diagnostic radiology in intensive care units (author's transl)].", "content": "The increasing demands made by intensive care medicine on chest and abdominal radiography and on angiography have created the need for new X-ray equipment that combines short exposure with high tension. Battery-operated medium-frequency generators have an adequate output to satisfy these demands. For visualizing peripheral vessels in intensive care patients xeroradiographic arteriography has proved its value.", "contents": "[X-ray equipment for standardized diagnostic radiology in intensive care units (author's transl)]. The increasing demands made by intensive care medicine on chest and abdominal radiography and on angiography have created the need for new X-ray equipment that combines short exposure with high tension. Battery-operated medium-frequency generators have an adequate output to satisfy these demands. For visualizing peripheral vessels in intensive care patients xeroradiographic arteriography has proved its value.", "PMID": 450852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9460", "title": "The effects and interactions of scopolamine, physostigmine and methamphetamine on human memory.", "content": "Seventy college age subjects learned and recalled a series of word lists prior to being injected with methamphetamine (0.2 mg/kg or 0.3 mg/kg), scopolamine (8 microgram/kg), or a placebo. Following the injection subjects were tested for their free recall and recognition of the words and they completed a short-term digit recall task. Subjects who had previously received scopolamine were next injected with either methamphetamine (0.2 mg/kg or 0.3 mg/kg), physostigmine (32 microgram/kg), or placebo, while other subjects received a placebo injection. The above memory procedure was then repeated with a second series of word lists. In addition, subjective feelings were measured with a questionnaire. Scopolamine and methamphetamine did not affect recall of information learned prior to injection. Scopolamine did, however, impair performance in both the digit recall task and in the second series of memory tests. Physostigmine and methamphetamine alleviated most of the memory deficits and sedation produced by scopolamine. Methamphetamine alone produced subjective arousal and a small improvement in recall of words learned after injection and a large increase in incorrect responding.", "contents": "The effects and interactions of scopolamine, physostigmine and methamphetamine on human memory. Seventy college age subjects learned and recalled a series of word lists prior to being injected with methamphetamine (0.2 mg/kg or 0.3 mg/kg), scopolamine (8 microgram/kg), or a placebo. Following the injection subjects were tested for their free recall and recognition of the words and they completed a short-term digit recall task. Subjects who had previously received scopolamine were next injected with either methamphetamine (0.2 mg/kg or 0.3 mg/kg), physostigmine (32 microgram/kg), or placebo, while other subjects received a placebo injection. The above memory procedure was then repeated with a second series of word lists. In addition, subjective feelings were measured with a questionnaire. Scopolamine and methamphetamine did not affect recall of information learned prior to injection. Scopolamine did, however, impair performance in both the digit recall task and in the second series of memory tests. Physostigmine and methamphetamine alleviated most of the memory deficits and sedation produced by scopolamine. Methamphetamine alone produced subjective arousal and a small improvement in recall of words learned after injection and a large increase in incorrect responding.", "PMID": 450929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9461", "title": "Increasing the rate of ethanol consumption in food- and water-satiated rats.", "content": "The effects of food satiation, ethanol concentration, and the schedule of ethanol availability on the rate of ethanol consumption were investigated in rats. In Experiment 1 separate groups were exposed to 6.2 or 12.5% w/v ethanol and unlimited access to food. The food and ethanol were available concurrently for one to three hours daily. After approximately 15 sessions unlimited food was available whenever ethanol was not available. The rate of ethanol consumption was positively related to ethanol concentration and negatively related to duration of ethanol availability. In Experiment 2 similar procedures were followed, except rats had unlimited access to food throughout the experiment. The results were similar to Experiment 1. In Experiment 3 separate groups were exposed to 6.2 and 12.5% w/v ethanol for one hour every other day; unlimited food was available throughout the experiment. The results were similar to the one-hour availability groups in Experiments 1 and 2. In all experiments ethanol consumption rates increased to levels above baseline and above the usual ethanol metabolic rate found in rats. The results demonstrated new combinations of ethanol availability and non-availability durations that were sufficient to significantly increase the rate of ethanol consumption.", "contents": "Increasing the rate of ethanol consumption in food- and water-satiated rats. The effects of food satiation, ethanol concentration, and the schedule of ethanol availability on the rate of ethanol consumption were investigated in rats. In Experiment 1 separate groups were exposed to 6.2 or 12.5% w/v ethanol and unlimited access to food. The food and ethanol were available concurrently for one to three hours daily. After approximately 15 sessions unlimited food was available whenever ethanol was not available. The rate of ethanol consumption was positively related to ethanol concentration and negatively related to duration of ethanol availability. In Experiment 2 similar procedures were followed, except rats had unlimited access to food throughout the experiment. The results were similar to Experiment 1. In Experiment 3 separate groups were exposed to 6.2 and 12.5% w/v ethanol for one hour every other day; unlimited food was available throughout the experiment. The results were similar to the one-hour availability groups in Experiments 1 and 2. In all experiments ethanol consumption rates increased to levels above baseline and above the usual ethanol metabolic rate found in rats. The results demonstrated new combinations of ethanol availability and non-availability durations that were sufficient to significantly increase the rate of ethanol consumption.", "PMID": 450930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9462", "title": "Effects of diazepam and ethanol alone and in combination on conditioned suppression of key-pecking in the pigeon.", "content": "Pigeons were intermittently given grain reinforcement for key pecks. Occasional 30-sec keylight changes (warning stimulus) were followed by a brief electric shock, which suppressed responding during the warning stimuli. This suppression was reduced by diazepam and ethanol, yet combinations of the two drugs did not reduce suppression (antagonistic effect). Each drug reduced responding in the absence of the warning stimulus, and combinations of the drug produced still greater reductions in this safe-period responding (synergistic effect).", "contents": "Effects of diazepam and ethanol alone and in combination on conditioned suppression of key-pecking in the pigeon. Pigeons were intermittently given grain reinforcement for key pecks. Occasional 30-sec keylight changes (warning stimulus) were followed by a brief electric shock, which suppressed responding during the warning stimuli. This suppression was reduced by diazepam and ethanol, yet combinations of the two drugs did not reduce suppression (antagonistic effect). Each drug reduced responding in the absence of the warning stimulus, and combinations of the drug produced still greater reductions in this safe-period responding (synergistic effect).", "PMID": 450931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9463", "title": "Interaction of food deprivation with different measures of amphetamine effects.", "content": "The effects of d-amphetamine (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg) on feeding, activity, and food-dish contact time of male Holtzman rats were investigated under 4 different levels of food deprivation (0, 12, 24, 36 hr). Differences in the amount of food deprivation significantly influenced the drug's effect on feeding and food-dish contact time, but not on activity. Also, differences in the amount of food deprivation significantly influenced the interrelationship (correlation) of amphetamine's effects on activity and food-dish contact time and on food-dish contact time and feeding, but not so much the interrelationship of the drug's effects on feeding and activity. These findings suggest that the amount of food deprivation differentially influences different general measures fo amphetamine effects as well as differentially affecting the interrelationship of amphetamine effects. The importance of the correlation data to the potential incompatibility of the drug's effects as well as to an interpretation of food-dish contact time is briefly considered.", "contents": "Interaction of food deprivation with different measures of amphetamine effects. The effects of d-amphetamine (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg) on feeding, activity, and food-dish contact time of male Holtzman rats were investigated under 4 different levels of food deprivation (0, 12, 24, 36 hr). Differences in the amount of food deprivation significantly influenced the drug's effect on feeding and food-dish contact time, but not on activity. Also, differences in the amount of food deprivation significantly influenced the interrelationship (correlation) of amphetamine's effects on activity and food-dish contact time and on food-dish contact time and feeding, but not so much the interrelationship of the drug's effects on feeding and activity. These findings suggest that the amount of food deprivation differentially influences different general measures fo amphetamine effects as well as differentially affecting the interrelationship of amphetamine effects. The importance of the correlation data to the potential incompatibility of the drug's effects as well as to an interpretation of food-dish contact time is briefly considered.", "PMID": 450932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9464", "title": "Prenatal effects of alcohol on adult learning in rats.", "content": "In an initial study, the rate of blood alcohol disappearance was not significantly different in pregnant compared to nonpregnant rats, but blood alcohol levels were significantly different depending on dose. In a second study, pregnant rats received daily administrations (p.o.) of ethanol (30% w/v) in single doses throughout gestation. Pair-fed vehicle-treated, and nondrug-treated rats fed ad lib served as controls. All pups were removed from their biological mothers at birth and were raised by nondrug-treated surrogate mothers. At five months of age, both male and female offspring prenatally exposed to ethanol weighed less than controls and female offspring performed significantly worse than the offspring of vehicle-injected pair-fed control mothers, on a two-way shock-avoidance task. There were no significant group differences, however, for either sex in water-escape maze learning.", "contents": "Prenatal effects of alcohol on adult learning in rats. In an initial study, the rate of blood alcohol disappearance was not significantly different in pregnant compared to nonpregnant rats, but blood alcohol levels were significantly different depending on dose. In a second study, pregnant rats received daily administrations (p.o.) of ethanol (30% w/v) in single doses throughout gestation. Pair-fed vehicle-treated, and nondrug-treated rats fed ad lib served as controls. All pups were removed from their biological mothers at birth and were raised by nondrug-treated surrogate mothers. At five months of age, both male and female offspring prenatally exposed to ethanol weighed less than controls and female offspring performed significantly worse than the offspring of vehicle-injected pair-fed control mothers, on a two-way shock-avoidance task. There were no significant group differences, however, for either sex in water-escape maze learning.", "PMID": 450933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9465", "title": "Biochemical effects of cycloheximide in developing chick brain.", "content": "The timecourses of inhibition of protein synthesis in forebrain roof 15 min to 24 hr after either intracerebral or peripheral injection of 40 microgram of cycloheximide (CXM), show maximum inhibition (68--85%) 1 hr after injection in 12 hr, 2-day- and 16-day-old chicks. In 2-day-old chicks, the level of free lysine was elevated by around 250% 1 hr after intracerebral injection of CXM. The total radioactivity in the forebrain roof/mg protein following peripheral injection of labelled lysine increased by around 80% compared to saline controls. Following unilateral injection of 20 microgram in 25 microliter CXM into a forebrain hemisphere, the inhibition of protein synthesis spread to the opposite forebrain hemisphere and both optic lobes within 5 min. Smaller volumes did not seem to give a clear unilateral inhibition capable of explaining the unilateral behavioural differences which have been reported. Central injection of CXM in 2- and 16-day-old chicks, resulted in an inhibition of liver protein synthesis of 55% and 40%, respectively. There were also gross signs of pathological effects in the liver and gall bladder. The implications of these effects of CXM are discussed in terms of the use of the drug in behavioural experiments.", "contents": "Biochemical effects of cycloheximide in developing chick brain. The timecourses of inhibition of protein synthesis in forebrain roof 15 min to 24 hr after either intracerebral or peripheral injection of 40 microgram of cycloheximide (CXM), show maximum inhibition (68--85%) 1 hr after injection in 12 hr, 2-day- and 16-day-old chicks. In 2-day-old chicks, the level of free lysine was elevated by around 250% 1 hr after intracerebral injection of CXM. The total radioactivity in the forebrain roof/mg protein following peripheral injection of labelled lysine increased by around 80% compared to saline controls. Following unilateral injection of 20 microgram in 25 microliter CXM into a forebrain hemisphere, the inhibition of protein synthesis spread to the opposite forebrain hemisphere and both optic lobes within 5 min. Smaller volumes did not seem to give a clear unilateral inhibition capable of explaining the unilateral behavioural differences which have been reported. Central injection of CXM in 2- and 16-day-old chicks, resulted in an inhibition of liver protein synthesis of 55% and 40%, respectively. There were also gross signs of pathological effects in the liver and gall bladder. The implications of these effects of CXM are discussed in terms of the use of the drug in behavioural experiments.", "PMID": 450934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9466", "title": "Aversive properties of cycloheximide versus memory inhibition in chickens' formation of visually cued food aversions.", "content": "No memory inhibition for a conditioned aversion in chickens, produced by pairing a novel colored food and lithium chloride (LiCl), was found when cycloheximide (CXM) was injected intracerebrally (IC) two or six hr before feeding. Good conditioned aversions were found when CXM alone was injected IC following consumption of the novel food. No aversions were found when CXM alone was injected IC two hr before feeding. Possible reasons for apparent memory inhibition using CXM in some appetitive paradigms are discussed.", "contents": "Aversive properties of cycloheximide versus memory inhibition in chickens' formation of visually cued food aversions. No memory inhibition for a conditioned aversion in chickens, produced by pairing a novel colored food and lithium chloride (LiCl), was found when cycloheximide (CXM) was injected intracerebrally (IC) two or six hr before feeding. Good conditioned aversions were found when CXM alone was injected IC following consumption of the novel food. No aversions were found when CXM alone was injected IC two hr before feeding. Possible reasons for apparent memory inhibition using CXM in some appetitive paradigms are discussed.", "PMID": 450935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9467", "title": "Response perseveration in rats exposed to alcohol prenatally.", "content": "Pregnant female rats consumed liquid diets containing either 35, 17, or 0% of the total calories as ethanol. Offspring of these females were tested for spontaneous alternation at 21 days of age and for reversal learning in a T-maze shock-escape paradigm at 20--21 days of age. In the spontaneous alternation test, rats exposed to alcohol prenatally took more trials than controls to enter the goal compartment opposite to that initially entered. In the T-maze escape study, alcohol-exposed offspring made more mistakes prior to criteron and more mistakes per trial than controls when the previously incorrect goal was made safe during reversal learning. In both studies linear dose-response functions were found. Furthermore, there was a significant tendency for the within-group variabitliy to increase as the level of prenatal exposure increased, perhaps indicating that the incidence as well as the severity of behavioral dysfunction was dose dependent. The results are interpreted in terms of a delay in the development of a central inhibitory system.", "contents": "Response perseveration in rats exposed to alcohol prenatally. Pregnant female rats consumed liquid diets containing either 35, 17, or 0% of the total calories as ethanol. Offspring of these females were tested for spontaneous alternation at 21 days of age and for reversal learning in a T-maze shock-escape paradigm at 20--21 days of age. In the spontaneous alternation test, rats exposed to alcohol prenatally took more trials than controls to enter the goal compartment opposite to that initially entered. In the T-maze escape study, alcohol-exposed offspring made more mistakes prior to criteron and more mistakes per trial than controls when the previously incorrect goal was made safe during reversal learning. In both studies linear dose-response functions were found. Furthermore, there was a significant tendency for the within-group variabitliy to increase as the level of prenatal exposure increased, perhaps indicating that the incidence as well as the severity of behavioral dysfunction was dose dependent. The results are interpreted in terms of a delay in the development of a central inhibitory system.", "PMID": 450936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9468", "title": "The effects of acetylmethadol on motor activity and schedule-controlled responding.", "content": "The effects of levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM) on locomotor activity and operant behavior were examined in rats. LAAM increased locomotor activity when given intraperitoneally (IP) at doses of 1 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg, but 10 mg/kg produced a slight decrease in motor activity over the 10-hour period. The largest increases and decreases in locomotor activity occurred 6--8 hours after administration of the drug. Other rats were trained to lever press for food pellets under a fixed-interval 90-second, fixed-ratio 10-response multiple schedule. LAAM only decreased rates of responding under the multiple schedule. Marked decreases in rates of responding under both components of the schedule occurred with LAAM was administered IP either 3 or 6 hours before the session at doses of 3 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg. The rate- decreasing effects of LAAM became greater the longer the interval between administration of the drug and initiation of the session.", "contents": "The effects of acetylmethadol on motor activity and schedule-controlled responding. The effects of levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM) on locomotor activity and operant behavior were examined in rats. LAAM increased locomotor activity when given intraperitoneally (IP) at doses of 1 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg, but 10 mg/kg produced a slight decrease in motor activity over the 10-hour period. The largest increases and decreases in locomotor activity occurred 6--8 hours after administration of the drug. Other rats were trained to lever press for food pellets under a fixed-interval 90-second, fixed-ratio 10-response multiple schedule. LAAM only decreased rates of responding under the multiple schedule. Marked decreases in rates of responding under both components of the schedule occurred with LAAM was administered IP either 3 or 6 hours before the session at doses of 3 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg. The rate- decreasing effects of LAAM became greater the longer the interval between administration of the drug and initiation of the session.", "PMID": 450937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9469", "title": "Generalization of norcocaine to the discriminative stimulus properties of cocaine.", "content": "In rats trained to discriminate 10 mg/kg cocaine from 1 mg/kg saline, norcocaine, the N-demethylated metabolite, at doses of 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, produced a dose response curve similar to that of cocaine and generalized to cocaine at the two higher doses. As with cocaine, the discriminative stimulus produced by the norcocaine was partially attenuated by the dopaminergic antagonist pimozide and the amine depletor reserpine. Benzoylecgonine, benzoylnorecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester in doses of 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg did not generalize to cocaine.", "contents": "Generalization of norcocaine to the discriminative stimulus properties of cocaine. In rats trained to discriminate 10 mg/kg cocaine from 1 mg/kg saline, norcocaine, the N-demethylated metabolite, at doses of 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, produced a dose response curve similar to that of cocaine and generalized to cocaine at the two higher doses. As with cocaine, the discriminative stimulus produced by the norcocaine was partially attenuated by the dopaminergic antagonist pimozide and the amine depletor reserpine. Benzoylecgonine, benzoylnorecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester in doses of 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg did not generalize to cocaine.", "PMID": 450938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9470", "title": "Effect of addition of ethanol and NaCl on saccharin + glucose polydipsia.", "content": "Rats received an ad lib choice of food, water, and a solution containing saccharin, glucose, and NaCl solutes either as single stimuli or in combinations. Ethanol was gradually added to these vehicles or water from 0.5--15% w/v. Ethanol intakes of all groups with vehicles containing glucose were higher than intakes of the water vehicle group. Ethanol intakes of the 0.125% saccharin + 3.0% glucose + 1.0% NaCl + ethanol group were highest, peaking at greater than 9.0 g/kg/day, and this group displayed the highest blood ethanol levels. However, there was no evidence of withdrawal syndrome, nor of increased intake of unflavored ethanol by groups previously receiving flavored ethanol. It is suggested that ethanol eliminative capacity limits free-choice ethanol intake when maximized by the addition of sapid congeners.", "contents": "Effect of addition of ethanol and NaCl on saccharin + glucose polydipsia. Rats received an ad lib choice of food, water, and a solution containing saccharin, glucose, and NaCl solutes either as single stimuli or in combinations. Ethanol was gradually added to these vehicles or water from 0.5--15% w/v. Ethanol intakes of all groups with vehicles containing glucose were higher than intakes of the water vehicle group. Ethanol intakes of the 0.125% saccharin + 3.0% glucose + 1.0% NaCl + ethanol group were highest, peaking at greater than 9.0 g/kg/day, and this group displayed the highest blood ethanol levels. However, there was no evidence of withdrawal syndrome, nor of increased intake of unflavored ethanol by groups previously receiving flavored ethanol. It is suggested that ethanol eliminative capacity limits free-choice ethanol intake when maximized by the addition of sapid congeners.", "PMID": 450939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9471", "title": "The effect of sulfinpyrazone on morphological changes in the coronary vasculature induced by prolonged unpredictable stress in the rat.", "content": "It was confirmed that prolonged unpredictable stress in the rat induces morphological change in the coronary microcirculation. These changes include dilation in venules, deposits staining positive with PAS in the venules due to platelet aggregation and a breakdown of the endothelial lining in arterioles. Sulfinpyrazone is reported to prevent platelet agglutination, and shows effectiveness in the clinic in preventing re-infarction following infarction. Accordingly rats were exposed to the stress regimen for 50 days, and groups were treated with sulfinpyrazone, either prophylactically (receive drug for 50 days) or therapeutically (receive drug Day 30 to Day 50). The morphology of the hearts of treated animals were compared with those of placebo treated controls. It was demonstrated that therapeutic sulfinpyrazone did not prevent (p less than 0.01), but reduced the incidence of morphological change in the coronary microcirculation. Prophylactic sulfinpyrazone had a distinct protective effect (p less than 0.001). It was demonstrated that the plasma corticosterone levels in both drug groups did not fall to the level found in control groups. The results are discussed in terms of a glucocorticoid-sulfinpyrazone interaction preventing prostaglandin release which will prevent platelet aggregation. It is possible that the interaction relates to maintaining the integrity of the microcirculatory endothelial cells, thus preventing the local release of inflammatory substances.", "contents": "The effect of sulfinpyrazone on morphological changes in the coronary vasculature induced by prolonged unpredictable stress in the rat. It was confirmed that prolonged unpredictable stress in the rat induces morphological change in the coronary microcirculation. These changes include dilation in venules, deposits staining positive with PAS in the venules due to platelet aggregation and a breakdown of the endothelial lining in arterioles. Sulfinpyrazone is reported to prevent platelet agglutination, and shows effectiveness in the clinic in preventing re-infarction following infarction. Accordingly rats were exposed to the stress regimen for 50 days, and groups were treated with sulfinpyrazone, either prophylactically (receive drug for 50 days) or therapeutically (receive drug Day 30 to Day 50). The morphology of the hearts of treated animals were compared with those of placebo treated controls. It was demonstrated that therapeutic sulfinpyrazone did not prevent (p less than 0.01), but reduced the incidence of morphological change in the coronary microcirculation. Prophylactic sulfinpyrazone had a distinct protective effect (p less than 0.001). It was demonstrated that the plasma corticosterone levels in both drug groups did not fall to the level found in control groups. The results are discussed in terms of a glucocorticoid-sulfinpyrazone interaction preventing prostaglandin release which will prevent platelet aggregation. It is possible that the interaction relates to maintaining the integrity of the microcirculatory endothelial cells, thus preventing the local release of inflammatory substances.", "PMID": 450940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9472", "title": "Mescaline increases startle responding equally in normal and raphe-lesioned rats.", "content": "To test the possible involvement of serotonin-containing cells of the midbrain in mediating the effects of mescaline on startle responding, electrolytic lesions were made in either the dorsal or median raphe nucleus in rats. Decreases in either striatal or hippocampal tryptophan hydroxylase activity confirmed the effectiveness of the lesions. One week later, startle was measured in response to 30 air-puff stimuli for each rat. Median, but not dorsal, raphe lesions increased startle magnitudes throughout the test session. The following day each group was divided into matched halves and were given 60 trials, 30 minutes after intraperitoneal injection of either saline or 10 mg/kg mescaline. Despite the large differences in baseline startle among the groups, mescaline produced comparable 25% increases in startle magnitudes in both sham- and raphe-lesioned animals. This result fails to support the hypothesis that increased startle responding produced by mescaline is mediated by the midbrain raphe nuclei.", "contents": "Mescaline increases startle responding equally in normal and raphe-lesioned rats. To test the possible involvement of serotonin-containing cells of the midbrain in mediating the effects of mescaline on startle responding, electrolytic lesions were made in either the dorsal or median raphe nucleus in rats. Decreases in either striatal or hippocampal tryptophan hydroxylase activity confirmed the effectiveness of the lesions. One week later, startle was measured in response to 30 air-puff stimuli for each rat. Median, but not dorsal, raphe lesions increased startle magnitudes throughout the test session. The following day each group was divided into matched halves and were given 60 trials, 30 minutes after intraperitoneal injection of either saline or 10 mg/kg mescaline. Despite the large differences in baseline startle among the groups, mescaline produced comparable 25% increases in startle magnitudes in both sham- and raphe-lesioned animals. This result fails to support the hypothesis that increased startle responding produced by mescaline is mediated by the midbrain raphe nuclei.", "PMID": 450941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9473", "title": "Effects of methylphenidate on schedule dependent and schedule induced behavior.", "content": "The effects of methylphenidate, 1.5, 3.0, 6.0 and 12.0 mg/kg, on lever pressing, schedule induced licking, and drinking were studied. The generator schedule was a fixed interval 1 min food reinforcement schedule. The effects were assessed when animals were reduced to 80% body weight by partial food deprivation and when allowed to recover body weight under conditions of ad lib eating. Results indicate that under body weight conditions methylphenidate significantly decreases schedule induced licking and drinking but does not affect lever pressing.", "contents": "Effects of methylphenidate on schedule dependent and schedule induced behavior. The effects of methylphenidate, 1.5, 3.0, 6.0 and 12.0 mg/kg, on lever pressing, schedule induced licking, and drinking were studied. The generator schedule was a fixed interval 1 min food reinforcement schedule. The effects were assessed when animals were reduced to 80% body weight by partial food deprivation and when allowed to recover body weight under conditions of ad lib eating. Results indicate that under body weight conditions methylphenidate significantly decreases schedule induced licking and drinking but does not affect lever pressing.", "PMID": 450942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9474", "title": "Relationship between facial flushing and blood acetaldehyde levels after alcohol intake.", "content": "Normal subjects were divided into two groups, i.e., those showing, and those not showing, facial flushing after consuming a small amount of alcohol. In the flushing group, increases of pulse rate, facial skin temperature and carotid arterial pressure and blood flow rate, as well as changes of digital plethysmogram and electrocardiogram, were found together with a conspicuous rise in blood acetaldehyde levels after the drinking. However, significant changes of the signs as mentioned above and elevation of blood acetaldehyde did not occur in the non-flushing group. The maximum blood alcohol levels and the rate of alcohol elimination showed not difference between these two groups. Furthermore, urinary excretions of epinephrine and norepinephrine increased in the flushing cases after the drinking.", "contents": "Relationship between facial flushing and blood acetaldehyde levels after alcohol intake. Normal subjects were divided into two groups, i.e., those showing, and those not showing, facial flushing after consuming a small amount of alcohol. In the flushing group, increases of pulse rate, facial skin temperature and carotid arterial pressure and blood flow rate, as well as changes of digital plethysmogram and electrocardiogram, were found together with a conspicuous rise in blood acetaldehyde levels after the drinking. However, significant changes of the signs as mentioned above and elevation of blood acetaldehyde did not occur in the non-flushing group. The maximum blood alcohol levels and the rate of alcohol elimination showed not difference between these two groups. Furthermore, urinary excretions of epinephrine and norepinephrine increased in the flushing cases after the drinking.", "PMID": 450943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9475", "title": "Effect on core temperature of restraint after peripherally and centrally injected morphine in the Sprague-Dawley rat.", "content": "The changes in core temperature (Tc) evoked by morphine in the Sprague-Dawley rate were altered by restraining the rat. The Tc of the free-moving rat rose after the IP (5, 15, 30, 60 mg/kg) or intracerebral injections (10, 20, 50 micrograms) of morphine. In the restrained rate, however, identical doses of morphine evoked either a hyperthermia of lesser magnitude than in the free-moving rat or a drop in Tc. These findings reemphasize the importance of restraint in determinating the action of morphine on Tc and extend the finding to the Sprague-Dawley rat.", "contents": "Effect on core temperature of restraint after peripherally and centrally injected morphine in the Sprague-Dawley rat. The changes in core temperature (Tc) evoked by morphine in the Sprague-Dawley rate were altered by restraining the rat. The Tc of the free-moving rat rose after the IP (5, 15, 30, 60 mg/kg) or intracerebral injections (10, 20, 50 micrograms) of morphine. In the restrained rate, however, identical doses of morphine evoked either a hyperthermia of lesser magnitude than in the free-moving rat or a drop in Tc. These findings reemphasize the importance of restraint in determinating the action of morphine on Tc and extend the finding to the Sprague-Dawley rat.", "PMID": 450944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9476", "title": "6-Hydroxydopamine reduces preference for conspecific but not other familiar odors in rat pups.", "content": "Rat pups injected subcutaneously with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) showed reduced preference for a familiar combination of conspecific and botanical odors when subsequently tested in a two-choice situation. However, drug treatment did not influence preference for the simple botanical odor. 6-OHDA also reduced norepinephrine (NE) concentrations in the forebrain and the olfactory bulbs. The data implicate NE in the ontogeny of the acquired responses to conspecific odors.", "contents": "6-Hydroxydopamine reduces preference for conspecific but not other familiar odors in rat pups. Rat pups injected subcutaneously with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) showed reduced preference for a familiar combination of conspecific and botanical odors when subsequently tested in a two-choice situation. However, drug treatment did not influence preference for the simple botanical odor. 6-OHDA also reduced norepinephrine (NE) concentrations in the forebrain and the olfactory bulbs. The data implicate NE in the ontogeny of the acquired responses to conspecific odors.", "PMID": 450945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9477", "title": "Effects of alcohol and caffeine on wheel running activity in the Mongolian gerbil.", "content": "This study investigated the effects of various doses of alcohol (0.8, 1.6, 2.4 g/kg) and caffeine (5, 10, 15, 20 mg/kg) on wheel running activity in 180 male and female adult Mongolian gerbils. Animals were tested for two 10-min trials 48 hours apart. Thirty min prior to Trial 2, injections were administered intraperitoneally. The results indicate that low doses of both alcohol and caffeine increase and higher doses of alcohol decrease wheel running activity in gerbils of both sexes. These results agree with other findings on activity in other animals, and serve as a baseline for future drug research in the gerbil.", "contents": "Effects of alcohol and caffeine on wheel running activity in the Mongolian gerbil. This study investigated the effects of various doses of alcohol (0.8, 1.6, 2.4 g/kg) and caffeine (5, 10, 15, 20 mg/kg) on wheel running activity in 180 male and female adult Mongolian gerbils. Animals were tested for two 10-min trials 48 hours apart. Thirty min prior to Trial 2, injections were administered intraperitoneally. The results indicate that low doses of both alcohol and caffeine increase and higher doses of alcohol decrease wheel running activity in gerbils of both sexes. These results agree with other findings on activity in other animals, and serve as a baseline for future drug research in the gerbil.", "PMID": 450946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9478", "title": "Relations between nicotine-induced convulsive behavior and blood and brain levels of nicotine as a function of sex and age in two inbred strains of mice.", "content": "Nicotine levels in blood and whole brain were measured as a function of sex and age in C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice and compared to the behavioral responses following an intraperitoneal injection of nicotine. The results indicate that blood levels of nicotine alone do not accurately predict either brain levels of nicotine or the behavioral responses to a single injection of nicotine. In general, brain levels of nicotine proved to be a fairly accurate predictor of the behavioral responses to nicotine. The data indicate that the sexes differ in their sensitivity to nicotine. Forty-two-day-old male mice of both strains given comparable doses of nicotine were found to concentrate the drug in the brain more than females. However, there was no corresponding increase in sensitivity to this increased brain concentration as measured by LD50, ED50, latency to tremor or latency to death.", "contents": "Relations between nicotine-induced convulsive behavior and blood and brain levels of nicotine as a function of sex and age in two inbred strains of mice. Nicotine levels in blood and whole brain were measured as a function of sex and age in C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice and compared to the behavioral responses following an intraperitoneal injection of nicotine. The results indicate that blood levels of nicotine alone do not accurately predict either brain levels of nicotine or the behavioral responses to a single injection of nicotine. In general, brain levels of nicotine proved to be a fairly accurate predictor of the behavioral responses to nicotine. The data indicate that the sexes differ in their sensitivity to nicotine. Forty-two-day-old male mice of both strains given comparable doses of nicotine were found to concentrate the drug in the brain more than females. However, there was no corresponding increase in sensitivity to this increased brain concentration as measured by LD50, ED50, latency to tremor or latency to death.", "PMID": 450947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9479", "title": "PA-learning in young rats with dorsal hippocampal- and hippocampo-entorhinal atropine.", "content": "Twenty-one-day-old rats injected with atropine into dorsal hippocampus and trained on a white-black step-through passive avoidance task, did not perform differently from their controls in acquisition or extinction. In contrast, when atropine was administered into the ventral hippocampo-entorhinal area, the animals displayed a passive avoidance deficit. The results support the finding that the posteroventral but not the anterodorsal part of the hippocampal complex is implicated in passive avoidance learning and suggest a cholinergic mediation of this effect.", "contents": "PA-learning in young rats with dorsal hippocampal- and hippocampo-entorhinal atropine. Twenty-one-day-old rats injected with atropine into dorsal hippocampus and trained on a white-black step-through passive avoidance task, did not perform differently from their controls in acquisition or extinction. In contrast, when atropine was administered into the ventral hippocampo-entorhinal area, the animals displayed a passive avoidance deficit. The results support the finding that the posteroventral but not the anterodorsal part of the hippocampal complex is implicated in passive avoidance learning and suggest a cholinergic mediation of this effect.", "PMID": 450949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9480", "title": "Neurochemical basis of the dorsal bundle extinction effect.", "content": "Injection of 6-hydroxydopamine into the mesencephalon of the rat has been found to cause resistance to extinction on continuously reinforced schedules. The neurochemical basis of this effect was investigated by using another concentration of 6-hydroxydopamine and by another position of injection. Severe depletion of forebrain noradrenaline was found after these injections with no change in dopamine, serotonin, cholinergic or GABAergic parameters in any brain area measured. The noradrenergic nature of the effect was further shown by the reversal fo the usual behavioural effect following pretreatment with a noradrenaline uptake inhibitor (desimipramine, 25 mg/kg 30 min prior to intracerebral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine). This rules out non-specific damage caused by the 6-hydroxydopamine as the neurochemical basis of the dorsal bundle extinction effect. Failure to find resistance to extinction after either kainic acid or 5-7 dihydroxytryptamine injection seems also to exclude respectively cell body loss at the injection site or damage to serotonergic systems. It is concluded that the dorsal bundle extinction effect is noradrenergic in nature.", "contents": "Neurochemical basis of the dorsal bundle extinction effect. Injection of 6-hydroxydopamine into the mesencephalon of the rat has been found to cause resistance to extinction on continuously reinforced schedules. The neurochemical basis of this effect was investigated by using another concentration of 6-hydroxydopamine and by another position of injection. Severe depletion of forebrain noradrenaline was found after these injections with no change in dopamine, serotonin, cholinergic or GABAergic parameters in any brain area measured. The noradrenergic nature of the effect was further shown by the reversal fo the usual behavioural effect following pretreatment with a noradrenaline uptake inhibitor (desimipramine, 25 mg/kg 30 min prior to intracerebral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine). This rules out non-specific damage caused by the 6-hydroxydopamine as the neurochemical basis of the dorsal bundle extinction effect. Failure to find resistance to extinction after either kainic acid or 5-7 dihydroxytryptamine injection seems also to exclude respectively cell body loss at the injection site or damage to serotonergic systems. It is concluded that the dorsal bundle extinction effect is noradrenergic in nature.", "PMID": 450950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9481", "title": "A modification of the dialytrode for simultaneous CNS recording and chemical stimulation.", "content": "Currently, chemical stimulation of the brain is done either with a single cannula that is inserted at the time the drug is delivered or with two cannulae that permit perfusion of the area of interest. The dialytrode is a push-pull cannula consisting of two concentric tubes, a porous membrane covering the tip of the tubing and a platinum wire loop that extends around the membrane and is used for EEG recordings. Studies with the dialytrode indicate that while the membrane is relatively impermeable to bacteria, molecules the size of neurotransmitters pass easily through the membrane. Therefore, the dailytrode is well suited for chronic chemical stimulation studies.", "contents": "A modification of the dialytrode for simultaneous CNS recording and chemical stimulation. Currently, chemical stimulation of the brain is done either with a single cannula that is inserted at the time the drug is delivered or with two cannulae that permit perfusion of the area of interest. The dialytrode is a push-pull cannula consisting of two concentric tubes, a porous membrane covering the tip of the tubing and a platinum wire loop that extends around the membrane and is used for EEG recordings. Studies with the dialytrode indicate that while the membrane is relatively impermeable to bacteria, molecules the size of neurotransmitters pass easily through the membrane. Therefore, the dailytrode is well suited for chronic chemical stimulation studies.", "PMID": 450951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9482", "title": "Significance of central noradrenergic system on harmaline induced tremor.", "content": "Since there is degeneration of substantia nigra concomitant with that of locus coeruleus (LC) in patients with Parkinson's disease, the study was performed to determine the role of central norepinephrine (NE) on harmaline induced tremor. The duration of harmaline (10 mg/kg IP) induced tremor was significantly reduced by intraventricular administration of L-thero-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (200 micrograms/rat) and 1-NE (50 micrograms/rat) was increased NE levels in the cerebral cortex, striatum, diencephalon, cerebellum and brain stem. Electrical stimulation of bilateral LC suppressed harmaline-induced 10-12/sec EMG activities in the neck muscle. Bilateral LC lesion upon electrocoagulation and 6-hydroxydopamine treatment resulted in a significant prolongation of the duration of harmaline induced tremor, reducing NE levels in the brain. These data suggest that central NE originating in the LC neurons has an inhibitory effect on the development of the tremor induced by harmaline.", "contents": "Significance of central noradrenergic system on harmaline induced tremor. Since there is degeneration of substantia nigra concomitant with that of locus coeruleus (LC) in patients with Parkinson's disease, the study was performed to determine the role of central norepinephrine (NE) on harmaline induced tremor. The duration of harmaline (10 mg/kg IP) induced tremor was significantly reduced by intraventricular administration of L-thero-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (200 micrograms/rat) and 1-NE (50 micrograms/rat) was increased NE levels in the cerebral cortex, striatum, diencephalon, cerebellum and brain stem. Electrical stimulation of bilateral LC suppressed harmaline-induced 10-12/sec EMG activities in the neck muscle. Bilateral LC lesion upon electrocoagulation and 6-hydroxydopamine treatment resulted in a significant prolongation of the duration of harmaline induced tremor, reducing NE levels in the brain. These data suggest that central NE originating in the LC neurons has an inhibitory effect on the development of the tremor induced by harmaline.", "PMID": 450952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9483", "title": "An electrode-cannula unit for intracerebral electrical stimulation, EEG recording and drug administration in small animals.", "content": "An inexpensive and reliable method for administering chemicals into the brain substance while simultaneously monitoring EEG activity and/or electrically stimulating the brain has many applications. Such an electrode-cannula unit can be easily made from readily available components.", "contents": "An electrode-cannula unit for intracerebral electrical stimulation, EEG recording and drug administration in small animals. An inexpensive and reliable method for administering chemicals into the brain substance while simultaneously monitoring EEG activity and/or electrically stimulating the brain has many applications. Such an electrode-cannula unit can be easily made from readily available components.", "PMID": 450953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9484", "title": "A comparison of methylphenidate induced active avoidance and water maze performance facilitation.", "content": "Methylphenidate was shown to facilitate both active avoidance and water performance compared to controls. Repetitive errors on both tasks were greater in the drug than the nondrug group and were positively correlated to water maze performance. These results fail to support the view that water maze acquisition is less influenced by performance variables than active avoidance. An unanticipated enhancement of water maze performance was also noted in the control group which had been previously tested on active avoidance compared with naive controls. Moreover, this group made fewer repetitive errors than naive controls, suggesting that previous shock exposure reduced inappropriate responses.", "contents": "A comparison of methylphenidate induced active avoidance and water maze performance facilitation. Methylphenidate was shown to facilitate both active avoidance and water performance compared to controls. Repetitive errors on both tasks were greater in the drug than the nondrug group and were positively correlated to water maze performance. These results fail to support the view that water maze acquisition is less influenced by performance variables than active avoidance. An unanticipated enhancement of water maze performance was also noted in the control group which had been previously tested on active avoidance compared with naive controls. Moreover, this group made fewer repetitive errors than naive controls, suggesting that previous shock exposure reduced inappropriate responses.", "PMID": 450954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9485", "title": "Application of Henderson equation for the determination of weakly acidic pharmaceutical compounds. Part 3: Determination of phenylbutazone.", "content": "A simple and rapid method for the determination of phenylkutazone using Henderson equation is described. The method is suitable for routine analysis in control laboratories.", "contents": "Application of Henderson equation for the determination of weakly acidic pharmaceutical compounds. Part 3: Determination of phenylbutazone. A simple and rapid method for the determination of phenylkutazone using Henderson equation is described. The method is suitable for routine analysis in control laboratories.", "PMID": 450955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9486", "title": "[On the polymorphism of barbiturates in powders and tablets. Part 1: Crystal optical studies on, and melting behaviour of barbital (author's transl)].", "content": "Crystal optical studies showed that barbital brands that conform to the standards of the DAB 7--DDR and the Ph. Hung. VI, respectively, present two different crystalline forms. After recrystallization form water or acetone-water mixture (1:1), the optical crystal picture of the brand conforming to the DAB 7--DDR prevails. The melting points of the commercial products do not differ from each other; both substances melt at 187.5 degrees C, whereas the melting points of the recrystallized products are 1.5 degrees and 2 degrees C, respectively, lower.", "contents": "[On the polymorphism of barbiturates in powders and tablets. Part 1: Crystal optical studies on, and melting behaviour of barbital (author's transl)]. Crystal optical studies showed that barbital brands that conform to the standards of the DAB 7--DDR and the Ph. Hung. VI, respectively, present two different crystalline forms. After recrystallization form water or acetone-water mixture (1:1), the optical crystal picture of the brand conforming to the DAB 7--DDR prevails. The melting points of the commercial products do not differ from each other; both substances melt at 187.5 degrees C, whereas the melting points of the recrystallized products are 1.5 degrees and 2 degrees C, respectively, lower.", "PMID": 450956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9487", "title": "[Interactions between macromolecular adjuvants and drugs. Part 17: On the effect of macromolecular adjuvants on the dissolution rate of chlorpromazine from dosage forms (author's transl)].", "content": "The determination of the dissolution rate of chlorpromazine from tablets and triturations containing macromolecular adjuvants by means of a modification of the flow-through type cell according to Langenbucher evidenced a decrease in the dissolution rate produced by polyvinylpyrrolidone, methyl-cellulose and hydroxyethyl-cellulose. It was found that the decrease in the dissolution rate is not due to the confirmed, relatively marked tendency of chlorpromazine to form complexes, but to gel formation.", "contents": "[Interactions between macromolecular adjuvants and drugs. Part 17: On the effect of macromolecular adjuvants on the dissolution rate of chlorpromazine from dosage forms (author's transl)]. The determination of the dissolution rate of chlorpromazine from tablets and triturations containing macromolecular adjuvants by means of a modification of the flow-through type cell according to Langenbucher evidenced a decrease in the dissolution rate produced by polyvinylpyrrolidone, methyl-cellulose and hydroxyethyl-cellulose. It was found that the decrease in the dissolution rate is not due to the confirmed, relatively marked tendency of chlorpromazine to form complexes, but to gel formation.", "PMID": 450957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9488", "title": "[On the use of the relative surface tension xi in studies on the structure-activity relationships (author's transl)].", "content": "The relative surface tension xi = (Pi/Mv)4 can be used in structure-activity studies as additional parameter. Here, Pi = parachor, Mv = molar volume (Tables 1 and 2) of the substituents. Some examples demonstrate the application.", "contents": "[On the use of the relative surface tension xi in studies on the structure-activity relationships (author's transl)]. The relative surface tension xi = (Pi/Mv)4 can be used in structure-activity studies as additional parameter. Here, Pi = parachor, Mv = molar volume (Tables 1 and 2) of the substituents. Some examples demonstrate the application.", "PMID": 450958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9489", "title": "[Animal experiments on the pharmacokinetics of 4-amidinophenylpyruvic acid (APPA) (author's transl)].", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of the synthetic protease inhibitor APPA was studied in rabbits. After intravenous or oral application of 1 and 10 mg of (carboxyl-14C)-4-amidinophenylpyruvic acid hydrochloride/kg to rabbits, the plasma concentration was determined over several days and the excretion in urine during 24 hours. The course of the plasma concentration curves showed no dose-dependence of the pharmacokinetic behaviour. A three-phase course of the plasma concentration curves was observed after intravenous application, the slowest phase having a half-life of about 20 h. This very slow elimination is considered to be caused by tubular re-absorption of APPA. There is neither accumulation in organs, tissues or erythrocytes nor binding with plasma proteins. The thin-layer chromatographic analysis of the plasma revealed no labelled metabolites, but only unchanged APPA. APPA, when applied orally (in the form of an aqueous solution), is absorbed by more than 80%, the maximum plasma level being reached within 2--3 h. Intravenous and oral applications at 24-h intervals result in a cumulative increase in APPA concentration in the plasma. If APPA is applied to pregnant rabbits, it passes into the fetal circulation.", "contents": "[Animal experiments on the pharmacokinetics of 4-amidinophenylpyruvic acid (APPA) (author's transl)]. The pharmacokinetics of the synthetic protease inhibitor APPA was studied in rabbits. After intravenous or oral application of 1 and 10 mg of (carboxyl-14C)-4-amidinophenylpyruvic acid hydrochloride/kg to rabbits, the plasma concentration was determined over several days and the excretion in urine during 24 hours. The course of the plasma concentration curves showed no dose-dependence of the pharmacokinetic behaviour. A three-phase course of the plasma concentration curves was observed after intravenous application, the slowest phase having a half-life of about 20 h. This very slow elimination is considered to be caused by tubular re-absorption of APPA. There is neither accumulation in organs, tissues or erythrocytes nor binding with plasma proteins. The thin-layer chromatographic analysis of the plasma revealed no labelled metabolites, but only unchanged APPA. APPA, when applied orally (in the form of an aqueous solution), is absorbed by more than 80%, the maximum plasma level being reached within 2--3 h. Intravenous and oral applications at 24-h intervals result in a cumulative increase in APPA concentration in the plasma. If APPA is applied to pregnant rabbits, it passes into the fetal circulation.", "PMID": 450959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9490", "title": "[Pharmacokinetic studies of the propolis constituent pinocembrin in the rat (author's transl)].", "content": "The present investigation into the pharmacokinetic behaviour of the propolis constituent pinocembrin which produces a relatively good antimicrobial effect in vitro, points to possible causes of its therapeutical failure when mice infected with Candida albicans were used as a model. The biological half-life periods for the phases of invasion and elimination were 26 and 268 min, respectively. The biological availability was 25%. Almost 15% of pinocembrin are excreted unchanged in faeces and urine. Even in case of oral application of doses of up to 500 mg/kg, the serum pinocembrin concentrations did not equal the MIC (minimal inhibitor concentration) values required in vitro. A considerable first-pass effect and accelerated processes of elimination are discussed as possible causes. It appears from the present findings that pinocembrin may be utilizable only for the external treatment of stomatomycoses.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetic studies of the propolis constituent pinocembrin in the rat (author's transl)]. The present investigation into the pharmacokinetic behaviour of the propolis constituent pinocembrin which produces a relatively good antimicrobial effect in vitro, points to possible causes of its therapeutical failure when mice infected with Candida albicans were used as a model. The biological half-life periods for the phases of invasion and elimination were 26 and 268 min, respectively. The biological availability was 25%. Almost 15% of pinocembrin are excreted unchanged in faeces and urine. Even in case of oral application of doses of up to 500 mg/kg, the serum pinocembrin concentrations did not equal the MIC (minimal inhibitor concentration) values required in vitro. A considerable first-pass effect and accelerated processes of elimination are discussed as possible causes. It appears from the present findings that pinocembrin may be utilizable only for the external treatment of stomatomycoses.", "PMID": 450960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9491", "title": "Comparison of the urinary bladder base and detrusor to cholinergic and histaminergic receptor activation in the rabbit.", "content": "The effects of cholinergic and histaminergic agonists and antagonists on the receptor responsiveness of the bladder as well as the fundus were compared. Carbachol and histamine were more potent and generated a greater force of contraction in the detrusor muscle than in the neck region. Histamine characteristically produced a rapid twitch-like contraction followed by an increase in motility in the neck smooth muscle while it produced an increased sustained contraction similarly induced by carbachol in the detrusor preparation. Pyrilamine was equally effective in competitively blocking histamine response in both the detrusor and neck preparations. We conclude that the bladder neck, like the detrusor regions, has cholinergic and H1 histaminergic receptors.", "contents": "Comparison of the urinary bladder base and detrusor to cholinergic and histaminergic receptor activation in the rabbit. The effects of cholinergic and histaminergic agonists and antagonists on the receptor responsiveness of the bladder as well as the fundus were compared. Carbachol and histamine were more potent and generated a greater force of contraction in the detrusor muscle than in the neck region. Histamine characteristically produced a rapid twitch-like contraction followed by an increase in motility in the neck smooth muscle while it produced an increased sustained contraction similarly induced by carbachol in the detrusor preparation. Pyrilamine was equally effective in competitively blocking histamine response in both the detrusor and neck preparations. We conclude that the bladder neck, like the detrusor regions, has cholinergic and H1 histaminergic receptors.", "PMID": 450963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9492", "title": "Effects of cannabinoids on sperm morphology.", "content": "Sperm morphology was studied in hybrid mice of genotype (C57BL X C3H)F1 following treatment with specific cannabinoids. Mice were treated for 5 consecutive days with the specific cannabinoid; 35 days after the last treatment, epididymal sperm were scored in the light microscope and assessed in the scanning electron microscope. The animals treated with delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) and cannabinol (CBN) had a statistically higher incidence of abnormal sperm than the controls. The incidence of abnormal sperm in the animals treated with cannabidiol (CBD) was not statistically different from the control value. The relative toxicity of the cannabinoids in these studies was delta9-THC greater than CBN greater than CBD. Normal sperm have a smooth kidney-shaped head with a prominent hook; abnormal sperm have shapes which include heads without hooks, banana-shaped heads, amorphous heads and folded heads.", "contents": "Effects of cannabinoids on sperm morphology. Sperm morphology was studied in hybrid mice of genotype (C57BL X C3H)F1 following treatment with specific cannabinoids. Mice were treated for 5 consecutive days with the specific cannabinoid; 35 days after the last treatment, epididymal sperm were scored in the light microscope and assessed in the scanning electron microscope. The animals treated with delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) and cannabinol (CBN) had a statistically higher incidence of abnormal sperm than the controls. The incidence of abnormal sperm in the animals treated with cannabidiol (CBD) was not statistically different from the control value. The relative toxicity of the cannabinoids in these studies was delta9-THC greater than CBN greater than CBD. Normal sperm have a smooth kidney-shaped head with a prominent hook; abnormal sperm have shapes which include heads without hooks, banana-shaped heads, amorphous heads and folded heads.", "PMID": 450964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9493", "title": "Effect of clonidine on the contractile responsiveness of aortic smooth muscle to norepinephrine.", "content": "A length-tension relationship was established for aortic smooth muscle of rats by means of membrane depolarization with KCl. Maximal tension was developed by aortic rings when the preload initial tension was 8--9 g. Two aortic rings (4 mm thick) were removed from segments of the aorta cut 1.5 (upper) and 2.4 cm (lower) below the aortic arch. Upper rings appeared to develop a greater tension than lower rings during depolarization with KCl. However, in spite of this quantitative difference between rings from upper and lower segments of the aorta, there were no qualitative differences observed. Clonidine, an antihypertensive agent, induced a contraction in aortic smooth muscle, apparently by way of alpha-adrenoreceptor stimulation. Clonidine also attenuated significantly the development of active tension by norepinephrine but did not inhibit significantly the development of active tension following membrane depolarization with KCl. This suggests that there is a partial antagonism between norepinephrine and clonidine, presumably at the site of the receptors on smooth muscle, and that clonidine does not interfere with the contractile mechanism, per se.", "contents": "Effect of clonidine on the contractile responsiveness of aortic smooth muscle to norepinephrine. A length-tension relationship was established for aortic smooth muscle of rats by means of membrane depolarization with KCl. Maximal tension was developed by aortic rings when the preload initial tension was 8--9 g. Two aortic rings (4 mm thick) were removed from segments of the aorta cut 1.5 (upper) and 2.4 cm (lower) below the aortic arch. Upper rings appeared to develop a greater tension than lower rings during depolarization with KCl. However, in spite of this quantitative difference between rings from upper and lower segments of the aorta, there were no qualitative differences observed. Clonidine, an antihypertensive agent, induced a contraction in aortic smooth muscle, apparently by way of alpha-adrenoreceptor stimulation. Clonidine also attenuated significantly the development of active tension by norepinephrine but did not inhibit significantly the development of active tension following membrane depolarization with KCl. This suggests that there is a partial antagonism between norepinephrine and clonidine, presumably at the site of the receptors on smooth muscle, and that clonidine does not interfere with the contractile mechanism, per se.", "PMID": 450965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9494", "title": "Composition of gastric mucinous secretion from Heidenhain pouches of dogs treated with aspirin.", "content": "Principal glycoproteins and amino acids of secretions from Heidenhain pouches were studied in control and aspirin-treated dogs in the resting state of fasting and during stimulation with pentagastrin. All samples showed the presence of galactose, galactosamine, glucosamine, glucose, fucose, mannose, uronic acid and sulfate. Galactose and glucosamine were found in equimolar amounts, and the galactose/galactosamine ratio was 2/1. Pentagastrin induced the reduction in concentration of major carbohydrate components and amino acids of gastric mucus. The concentrations of major carbohydrate components and of amino acids of gastric secretions were lower in aspirin-treated animals than in controls.", "contents": "Composition of gastric mucinous secretion from Heidenhain pouches of dogs treated with aspirin. Principal glycoproteins and amino acids of secretions from Heidenhain pouches were studied in control and aspirin-treated dogs in the resting state of fasting and during stimulation with pentagastrin. All samples showed the presence of galactose, galactosamine, glucosamine, glucose, fucose, mannose, uronic acid and sulfate. Galactose and glucosamine were found in equimolar amounts, and the galactose/galactosamine ratio was 2/1. Pentagastrin induced the reduction in concentration of major carbohydrate components and amino acids of gastric mucus. The concentrations of major carbohydrate components and of amino acids of gastric secretions were lower in aspirin-treated animals than in controls.", "PMID": 450966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9495", "title": "Theoretical aspects and practical applications of moir\u00e9 topography.", "content": "When a surface is observed at a distance through a parallel line grating which is illuminated by a source of light laterally displaced to the viewing axis, the grating is superimposed on its shadow and this gives rise to a moir\u00e9 fringe pattern. The fringes represent cross-sections of the surface parallel to the grating plane. The principle of the formation of the contour map has been studied assuming a grating represented by a Fourier series, a source of light represented by a 3D intensity distribution and a viewing aperture of finite dimensions. The experimental system used for illumination and observation of the moir\u00e9 fringes consists of an equispaced parallel-lined glass grating and two small light sources positioned symmetrically about the imaging device. The arrangement constitutes a 3D imaging system with an accuracy of the order of 1 mm. The technique has been applied in radiotherapy problems such as the design of contour compensators and the measurement of body contours. Moir\u00e9 patterns have been analysed with the aid of a PDP-8 computer, and have been used to calculate surface areas and volumes such as in breast studies and superficial tumour measurements.", "contents": "Theoretical aspects and practical applications of moir\u00e9 topography. When a surface is observed at a distance through a parallel line grating which is illuminated by a source of light laterally displaced to the viewing axis, the grating is superimposed on its shadow and this gives rise to a moir\u00e9 fringe pattern. The fringes represent cross-sections of the surface parallel to the grating plane. The principle of the formation of the contour map has been studied assuming a grating represented by a Fourier series, a source of light represented by a 3D intensity distribution and a viewing aperture of finite dimensions. The experimental system used for illumination and observation of the moir\u00e9 fringes consists of an equispaced parallel-lined glass grating and two small light sources positioned symmetrically about the imaging device. The arrangement constitutes a 3D imaging system with an accuracy of the order of 1 mm. The technique has been applied in radiotherapy problems such as the design of contour compensators and the measurement of body contours. Moir\u00e9 patterns have been analysed with the aid of a PDP-8 computer, and have been used to calculate surface areas and volumes such as in breast studies and superficial tumour measurements.", "PMID": 450967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9496", "title": "Evaluation of a moir\u00e9 imaging system.", "content": "Moir\u00e9 fringe techniques can be used to measure surface topography. The factors that affect the formation of the fringes have been assessed theoretically by developing models of gratings and light sources of finite dimensions. In this way the effect of parameters such as the intensity distribution of the light source, the viewing aperture function, the lateral displacement of the source relative to the viewing axis, the viewing distance, the grating spacing and grating ratio have been evaluated. Other factors, related to the physical properties and geometry of the reflecting surface, are also investigated. Suggestions are made for the design of an optimum moir\u00e9 imaging system.", "contents": "Evaluation of a moir\u00e9 imaging system. Moir\u00e9 fringe techniques can be used to measure surface topography. The factors that affect the formation of the fringes have been assessed theoretically by developing models of gratings and light sources of finite dimensions. In this way the effect of parameters such as the intensity distribution of the light source, the viewing aperture function, the lateral displacement of the source relative to the viewing axis, the viewing distance, the grating spacing and grating ratio have been evaluated. Other factors, related to the physical properties and geometry of the reflecting surface, are also investigated. Suggestions are made for the design of an optimum moir\u00e9 imaging system.", "PMID": 450968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9497", "title": "Ionisation measurements and the derivation of Wn in acetylene and carbon dioxide irradiated with neutrons.", "content": "The use of ionisation chambers for neutron dosimetry requires a knowledge of Wn, the mean energy loss per ion pair. Experimental measurements of the ionisation in acetylene and carbon dioxide have been made for monoenergetic neutron beams of mean energies 0.236, 0.554, 1.12 and 1.72 MeV. The neutron fluences were measured with a De Pangher long counter calibrated at the National Physical Laboratory, and spectra determined by the time-of-flight technique. The measurements are compared with calculations based on the work of Dennis. Ionisation values were computed using a program which calculates kerma and uses different empirical models to describe the energy dependence of the W value of heavy ions. For the agreement to better than +/- 8% was obtained between the measured ionisation values and the calculated values based on these models. Larger discrepancies of up to 25% were observed between the measured and calculated ionisation in carbon dioxide. This is thought to reflect the larger uncertainties in the calculation of kerma in this gas due to resonances in the oxygen cross-section. Representative mean values for Wn/Wbeta of about 1-14 for acetylene and 1.58 for carbon dioxide were derived from the experimental measurements and calculated kerma for the neutron energy range 0.2--2 MeV.", "contents": "Ionisation measurements and the derivation of Wn in acetylene and carbon dioxide irradiated with neutrons. The use of ionisation chambers for neutron dosimetry requires a knowledge of Wn, the mean energy loss per ion pair. Experimental measurements of the ionisation in acetylene and carbon dioxide have been made for monoenergetic neutron beams of mean energies 0.236, 0.554, 1.12 and 1.72 MeV. The neutron fluences were measured with a De Pangher long counter calibrated at the National Physical Laboratory, and spectra determined by the time-of-flight technique. The measurements are compared with calculations based on the work of Dennis. Ionisation values were computed using a program which calculates kerma and uses different empirical models to describe the energy dependence of the W value of heavy ions. For the agreement to better than +/- 8% was obtained between the measured ionisation values and the calculated values based on these models. Larger discrepancies of up to 25% were observed between the measured and calculated ionisation in carbon dioxide. This is thought to reflect the larger uncertainties in the calculation of kerma in this gas due to resonances in the oxygen cross-section. Representative mean values for Wn/Wbeta of about 1-14 for acetylene and 1.58 for carbon dioxide were derived from the experimental measurements and calculated kerma for the neutron energy range 0.2--2 MeV.", "PMID": 450969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9498", "title": "Relative determination of W-values for alpha particles in tissue-equivalent and other gases.", "content": "W (the average energy to form an ion pair) for 5.4 MeV 241Am alpha particles in a Rossi-type tissue-equivalent (TE) gas, argon and methane was determined to an accuracy better than 0.2% using a new automated data handling system. A vibrating reed electrometer and current digitiser were used to measure the current produced by completely stopping the alpha particles in a large cylindrical ionisation chamber. A multichannel analyser, operating in a slow multiscaler mode, was used to store pulses from the current digitiser. The dwell time, of the order of 60 min per channel, was selected with an external timer gate. Current measurements were made at reduced pressures (200 Torr) to reduce ion recombination. The average current, over many repeated measurements, was compared to the current produced in nitrogen and its previously published W-value of 36.39+/-0.04 eV per ion pair. The resulting W-values were, in eV per ion pair, 26.29+/-0.05 for argon, 29.08+/-0.03 for methane and 30.72+/-0.04 for TE gas, which had an analysed composition of 64.6% methane, 32.4% CO2 and 2.7% nitrogen. Although the methane and argon values agree within 0.1% with previously published values, the value for TE is 1.2% lower than the single previously reported value.", "contents": "Relative determination of W-values for alpha particles in tissue-equivalent and other gases. W (the average energy to form an ion pair) for 5.4 MeV 241Am alpha particles in a Rossi-type tissue-equivalent (TE) gas, argon and methane was determined to an accuracy better than 0.2% using a new automated data handling system. A vibrating reed electrometer and current digitiser were used to measure the current produced by completely stopping the alpha particles in a large cylindrical ionisation chamber. A multichannel analyser, operating in a slow multiscaler mode, was used to store pulses from the current digitiser. The dwell time, of the order of 60 min per channel, was selected with an external timer gate. Current measurements were made at reduced pressures (200 Torr) to reduce ion recombination. The average current, over many repeated measurements, was compared to the current produced in nitrogen and its previously published W-value of 36.39+/-0.04 eV per ion pair. The resulting W-values were, in eV per ion pair, 26.29+/-0.05 for argon, 29.08+/-0.03 for methane and 30.72+/-0.04 for TE gas, which had an analysed composition of 64.6% methane, 32.4% CO2 and 2.7% nitrogen. Although the methane and argon values agree within 0.1% with previously published values, the value for TE is 1.2% lower than the single previously reported value.", "PMID": 450970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9499", "title": "Betatron electron beam characterisation for dosimetry calculations.", "content": "Parameters have been specified for electron beams with energies 5--45 MeV from a Brown Boveri betatron for use in computerised dosimetry calculations. A semi-empirical equation is given for the dose at any point at various depths in water. This equation is a modification to Kawachi's predictive model which was based on solutions of a general age--diffusion equation. The depth doses and isodose curves are predicted as a function of the practical range, source skin distance (SSD) and field size. Depth dose accuracy requirements of +/-2% above 50% depth dose and +/-5% at lower doses, relative to maximum dose, have been set and achieved. Also, the shape of the isodose curves with the constrictions at higher doses and bulging at lower values are accurately predicted. Computer calculated beams have been used to generate summed isodose distributions for certain clinical situations.", "contents": "Betatron electron beam characterisation for dosimetry calculations. Parameters have been specified for electron beams with energies 5--45 MeV from a Brown Boveri betatron for use in computerised dosimetry calculations. A semi-empirical equation is given for the dose at any point at various depths in water. This equation is a modification to Kawachi's predictive model which was based on solutions of a general age--diffusion equation. The depth doses and isodose curves are predicted as a function of the practical range, source skin distance (SSD) and field size. Depth dose accuracy requirements of +/-2% above 50% depth dose and +/-5% at lower doses, relative to maximum dose, have been set and achieved. Also, the shape of the isodose curves with the constrictions at higher doses and bulging at lower values are accurately predicted. Computer calculated beams have been used to generate summed isodose distributions for certain clinical situations.", "PMID": 450971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9500", "title": "Compton scatter densitometry in cancellous bone.", "content": "A single-source low-energy Compton densitometer has been used to investigate the effects of multiple scattering on density determinations. The relative electron density and mass density were determined in samples of known density, and in samples of human cancellous bone tissue. The influence of sample diameter on the measured relative electron density of known samples was investigated. The measured value was strongly dependent on the diameter and the density range of the sample. The bias inherent in the density determination which is attributable to multiple scattering and attenuation in human femoral bone was evaluated, and a correction for these effects is suggested for clinical measurements.", "contents": "Compton scatter densitometry in cancellous bone. A single-source low-energy Compton densitometer has been used to investigate the effects of multiple scattering on density determinations. The relative electron density and mass density were determined in samples of known density, and in samples of human cancellous bone tissue. The influence of sample diameter on the measured relative electron density of known samples was investigated. The measured value was strongly dependent on the diameter and the density range of the sample. The bias inherent in the density determination which is attributable to multiple scattering and attenuation in human femoral bone was evaluated, and a correction for these effects is suggested for clinical measurements.", "PMID": 450972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9501", "title": "Development of apparatus to measure calcium changes in the forearm and spine by neutron activation analysis using californium-252.", "content": "Techniques were developed to measure small changes of calcium in the forearm and spine in vivo by neutron activation analysis using two sources of 252Cf in a hospital environment. Using purpose-built part-body counters and bilateral irradiation with 7.5 cm premoderation between the sources and the bone, peripheral bone was measured with a total source strength eventually as low as 50 mCi. Two methods of spectral analysis were used and compared. Patient studies of the forearm were successfully undertaken, with a precision of 2.6% which included patient movement, and an annual bone dose of less than 10 rem and skin dose of 35 rem from six measurements. Two 100 mCi sources were used for measurements of the lumbar spine. Care was taken to minimise the problems of non-uniformity of activation which are present using unilateral irradiation. Emphasis was placed on measuring the bodies of the vertebrae with adequate sensitivity and uniformity, and the spinous processes and arches with low sensitivity. A whole body counter was used for the bilateral detection of the induced activity. The precision of the method was 3.0% with an annual peak bone dose of 2.1 rem and skin dose of 18 rem from three measurements.", "contents": "Development of apparatus to measure calcium changes in the forearm and spine by neutron activation analysis using californium-252. Techniques were developed to measure small changes of calcium in the forearm and spine in vivo by neutron activation analysis using two sources of 252Cf in a hospital environment. Using purpose-built part-body counters and bilateral irradiation with 7.5 cm premoderation between the sources and the bone, peripheral bone was measured with a total source strength eventually as low as 50 mCi. Two methods of spectral analysis were used and compared. Patient studies of the forearm were successfully undertaken, with a precision of 2.6% which included patient movement, and an annual bone dose of less than 10 rem and skin dose of 35 rem from six measurements. Two 100 mCi sources were used for measurements of the lumbar spine. Care was taken to minimise the problems of non-uniformity of activation which are present using unilateral irradiation. Emphasis was placed on measuring the bodies of the vertebrae with adequate sensitivity and uniformity, and the spinous processes and arches with low sensitivity. A whole body counter was used for the bilateral detection of the induced activity. The precision of the method was 3.0% with an annual peak bone dose of 2.1 rem and skin dose of 18 rem from three measurements.", "PMID": 450973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9502", "title": "Post-reconstruction method for beam hardening in computerised tomography.", "content": "A method for correcting the beam hardening artefacts in computerised tomography is introduced. After an initial reconstruction of the object the uncorrected image is used to estimate the amount of bone and tissue along each ray. The bone and tissue lengths obtained from the initial reconstruction are used to add a correction term to each original projection. A second reconstruction using the corrected projection data yields the final beam hardening corrected image. The results are presented showing the application of this formalism to a mathematical phantom. The instability of the correction method with respect to various possible sources of error is examined.", "contents": "Post-reconstruction method for beam hardening in computerised tomography. A method for correcting the beam hardening artefacts in computerised tomography is introduced. After an initial reconstruction of the object the uncorrected image is used to estimate the amount of bone and tissue along each ray. The bone and tissue lengths obtained from the initial reconstruction are used to add a correction term to each original projection. A second reconstruction using the corrected projection data yields the final beam hardening corrected image. The results are presented showing the application of this formalism to a mathematical phantom. The instability of the correction method with respect to various possible sources of error is examined.", "PMID": 450974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9503", "title": "The measurement of the depth of a point source of a radioisotope from gamma ray spectra.", "content": "The spectrum of the scattered radiation from a 'point' source of 99Tcm located within a slab of tissue-like material has been studied with a 19-phototube gamma camera, a 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm sodium iodide detector and a Ge(Li) counter. Both backscatter and forward scattered radiation contribute to the spectra observed; 'infinite' backscatter is achieved at a thickness of 8 cm. The scattered radiation can be used to estimate the thickness of the overlying material. The scatter from 133Xe and 51Cr was also measured. The depth of a source could usually be determined to within a few millimetres from the proportion of scatter in the spectrum; it was more accurate with the 51Cr (320 keV) than with the lower-energy photopeaks of the other two isotopes. The variation in the spectrum as the source moved across the field of the gamma camera was recorded.", "contents": "The measurement of the depth of a point source of a radioisotope from gamma ray spectra. The spectrum of the scattered radiation from a 'point' source of 99Tcm located within a slab of tissue-like material has been studied with a 19-phototube gamma camera, a 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm sodium iodide detector and a Ge(Li) counter. Both backscatter and forward scattered radiation contribute to the spectra observed; 'infinite' backscatter is achieved at a thickness of 8 cm. The scattered radiation can be used to estimate the thickness of the overlying material. The scatter from 133Xe and 51Cr was also measured. The depth of a source could usually be determined to within a few millimetres from the proportion of scatter in the spectrum; it was more accurate with the 51Cr (320 keV) than with the lower-energy photopeaks of the other two isotopes. The variation in the spectrum as the source moved across the field of the gamma camera was recorded.", "PMID": 450975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9504", "title": "Constrained optimisation and its application to scintigraphy.", "content": "Any instrument that records data will produce a distorted or degraded version of the input signal. For example, imaging equipment will produce a blurred image of the object, and in the case of scintigraphic imaging the blurs may be comparable to the size of the physiological structures being investigated. The process of refocusing is called, in mathematical terms, deconvolution. In scintigraphy most workers have implemented deconvolution based on Wiener filtering. The shortcomings of the Wiener method when applied to scintigraphy are identified and an alternative approach to deconvolution using constrained optimisation is presented. The mathematical derivation of the new restoring filter is given in terms of the discrete Fourier transform. The practical implementation of the method on a digital computer is described and, as an example, the result of deconvolving a brain scan is presented.", "contents": "Constrained optimisation and its application to scintigraphy. Any instrument that records data will produce a distorted or degraded version of the input signal. For example, imaging equipment will produce a blurred image of the object, and in the case of scintigraphic imaging the blurs may be comparable to the size of the physiological structures being investigated. The process of refocusing is called, in mathematical terms, deconvolution. In scintigraphy most workers have implemented deconvolution based on Wiener filtering. The shortcomings of the Wiener method when applied to scintigraphy are identified and an alternative approach to deconvolution using constrained optimisation is presented. The mathematical derivation of the new restoring filter is given in terms of the discrete Fourier transform. The practical implementation of the method on a digital computer is described and, as an example, the result of deconvolving a brain scan is presented.", "PMID": 450977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9505", "title": "A study of the point spread function in scintillation camera collimators based on Fourier analysis.", "content": "A new technique for evaluating the point spread function of parallel hole collimators in scintillation cameras is studied. The collimator function is developed into a Fourier series and the intensity distribution in the detector plane for a point source is given by a mathematical expression that depends on the object position and on the collimator parameters. The septal penetration effect is considered. The technique is applied to obtain the general formulae for collimators with hexagonal holes and the PSF is evaluated.", "contents": "A study of the point spread function in scintillation camera collimators based on Fourier analysis. A new technique for evaluating the point spread function of parallel hole collimators in scintillation cameras is studied. The collimator function is developed into a Fourier series and the intensity distribution in the detector plane for a point source is given by a mathematical expression that depends on the object position and on the collimator parameters. The septal penetration effect is considered. The technique is applied to obtain the general formulae for collimators with hexagonal holes and the PSF is evaluated.", "PMID": 450978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9506", "title": "The gastrointestinal absorption of plutonium and americium in the hamster.", "content": "Plutonium-239 and americium-241 were administered to adult hamsters in various chemical forms and their absorption from the gut was measured. The results have been compared with published data on other species in order to derive values for the estimated absorption of these actinides in man. On the basis of current knowledge, the best values for adults would appear to be: 0.05% for americium, 0.01% for plutonium ingested in soluble form, and 0.0001% for plutonium ingested as the dioxide. Plutonium dioxide should be considered as soluble if a significant proportion (greater than 5%) of the activity is in particles less than 25 nm in diameter.", "contents": "The gastrointestinal absorption of plutonium and americium in the hamster. Plutonium-239 and americium-241 were administered to adult hamsters in various chemical forms and their absorption from the gut was measured. The results have been compared with published data on other species in order to derive values for the estimated absorption of these actinides in man. On the basis of current knowledge, the best values for adults would appear to be: 0.05% for americium, 0.01% for plutonium ingested in soluble form, and 0.0001% for plutonium ingested as the dioxide. Plutonium dioxide should be considered as soluble if a significant proportion (greater than 5%) of the activity is in particles less than 25 nm in diameter.", "PMID": 450980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9507", "title": "Application of Mie theory and cubic splines to the representation of light scattering patterns from bacteria in the logarithmic growth phase.", "content": "The angular dependence of light scattered by spherical bacteria cannot be explained accurately by treating them as homogeneous spheres with a simple size distribution determined by electron microscopy. Calculations indicated that structural features of the bacterial cell, such as its wall, were responsible, at least in part, for the poor agreement. Thus, there is no simple theoretical model available for light scattering by bacteria. Empirical methods have, therefore, to be used to describe the curves, e.g. for antibiotic sensitivity tests. Cubic splines provide a suitable empirical method.", "contents": "Application of Mie theory and cubic splines to the representation of light scattering patterns from bacteria in the logarithmic growth phase. The angular dependence of light scattered by spherical bacteria cannot be explained accurately by treating them as homogeneous spheres with a simple size distribution determined by electron microscopy. Calculations indicated that structural features of the bacterial cell, such as its wall, were responsible, at least in part, for the poor agreement. Thus, there is no simple theoretical model available for light scattering by bacteria. Empirical methods have, therefore, to be used to describe the curves, e.g. for antibiotic sensitivity tests. Cubic splines provide a suitable empirical method.", "PMID": 450981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9508", "title": "Energy cost of rehabilitation calisthenics.", "content": "This study examined the relationship between total energy cost and cardiac effort for a set of graded calisthenics that have been used in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Cardiac effort was quantified by calculating myocardial oxygen cost from the product of heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Total energy cost was determined by measuring oxygen uptake during steady-state exercise. Results indicate that total energy-cost values accurately reflect the cardiac effort required during the performance of these calisthenic exercises by normal subjects.", "contents": "Energy cost of rehabilitation calisthenics. This study examined the relationship between total energy cost and cardiac effort for a set of graded calisthenics that have been used in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Cardiac effort was quantified by calculating myocardial oxygen cost from the product of heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Total energy cost was determined by measuring oxygen uptake during steady-state exercise. Results indicate that total energy-cost values accurately reflect the cardiac effort required during the performance of these calisthenic exercises by normal subjects.", "PMID": 450992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9509", "title": "Physical conditioning and altered self-concept in rehabilitated hemipelegic patients.", "content": "Level of physical conditioning and self-concept are two factors important to all functions of physically disabled persons, both during and after formal rehabilitation. The level of physical conditioning as a determinant of physical fitness and functional status and the measure of self-concept as a determinant of behavior were studied in seven hemiplegic patients who had completed a formal rehabilitation program. Before the rehabilitation program, subjects were physically deconditioned and had altered self-concepts, including lowered self-esteem and other devaluations of the self. Following a 12-week physical conditioning program, subjects demonstrated improvements in physical fitness and functional status and a return to more normal values in some aspects of self-concept.", "contents": "Physical conditioning and altered self-concept in rehabilitated hemipelegic patients. Level of physical conditioning and self-concept are two factors important to all functions of physically disabled persons, both during and after formal rehabilitation. The level of physical conditioning as a determinant of physical fitness and functional status and the measure of self-concept as a determinant of behavior were studied in seven hemiplegic patients who had completed a formal rehabilitation program. Before the rehabilitation program, subjects were physically deconditioned and had altered self-concepts, including lowered self-esteem and other devaluations of the self. Following a 12-week physical conditioning program, subjects demonstrated improvements in physical fitness and functional status and a return to more normal values in some aspects of self-concept.", "PMID": 450993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9510", "title": "The patellofemoral joint and its implications in the rehabilitation of the knee.", "content": "The normal mechanics of patellar motion lead to an eventual age-dependent degeneration of the patellofemoral joint in the majority of persons. This review explores the relationships between normal patellar mechanics, patellofemoral joint disease, and findings of quadriceps femoris muscle-function studies. Implications of these relationships are then discussed with regard to the rehabilitation of all patients.", "contents": "The patellofemoral joint and its implications in the rehabilitation of the knee. The normal mechanics of patellar motion lead to an eventual age-dependent degeneration of the patellofemoral joint in the majority of persons. This review explores the relationships between normal patellar mechanics, patellofemoral joint disease, and findings of quadriceps femoris muscle-function studies. Implications of these relationships are then discussed with regard to the rehabilitation of all patients.", "PMID": 450994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9511", "title": "Peer review: one department's experiences.", "content": "A method of peer review, based on retrospective chart audit and patient care review, is described. This method can help physical therapists fulfill their responsibility of reviewing their services in order to provide optimal care.", "contents": "Peer review: one department's experiences. A method of peer review, based on retrospective chart audit and patient care review, is described. This method can help physical therapists fulfill their responsibility of reviewing their services in order to provide optimal care.", "PMID": 450996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9512", "title": "Unusual facial hemangioma.", "content": "An unusual hemangioma of the face, found in a 7-year-old girl in the masticator space and consisting of multiple lobes, is reported. Direct angiography was effective in clarifying the space occupied by the tumor. It was removed through a combined approach, using both temporal and oral incisions, with almost no bleeding.", "contents": "Unusual facial hemangioma. An unusual hemangioma of the face, found in a 7-year-old girl in the masticator space and consisting of multiple lobes, is reported. Direct angiography was effective in clarifying the space occupied by the tumor. It was removed through a combined approach, using both temporal and oral incisions, with almost no bleeding.", "PMID": 451061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9513", "title": "Cysts, masses, and tumors of the accessory parotid gland.", "content": "An accessory parotid gland occurs in approximately 21 percent of human subjects. It is located anterior to the main parotid gland, usually just above Stensen's duct and connected by its own duct to the latter. Any lesions that can occur in the main parotid gland can also arise in an accessory parotid gland. For the excision of lesions of the accessory parotid gland, we prefer to turn the same cervicofacial flap used for a lateral or total parotidectomy. This permits one to fully visualize the superficial and deep main parotid segments, the trunk and the branches of the facial nerve, and the accessory parotid gland along with its duct system and Stensen's duct.", "contents": "Cysts, masses, and tumors of the accessory parotid gland. An accessory parotid gland occurs in approximately 21 percent of human subjects. It is located anterior to the main parotid gland, usually just above Stensen's duct and connected by its own duct to the latter. Any lesions that can occur in the main parotid gland can also arise in an accessory parotid gland. For the excision of lesions of the accessory parotid gland, we prefer to turn the same cervicofacial flap used for a lateral or total parotidectomy. This permits one to fully visualize the superficial and deep main parotid segments, the trunk and the branches of the facial nerve, and the accessory parotid gland along with its duct system and Stensen's duct.", "PMID": 451062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9514", "title": "Periosteal pennant lateral canthoplasty.", "content": "A periosteal pennant method of primary lateral canthoplasty is described, and it effectively maintains surgical correction of the axis of the palpebral fissure and the position of the lateral canthus. In using it more than 50 times, we have not had to do a secondary correction.", "contents": "Periosteal pennant lateral canthoplasty. A periosteal pennant method of primary lateral canthoplasty is described, and it effectively maintains surgical correction of the axis of the palpebral fissure and the position of the lateral canthus. In using it more than 50 times, we have not had to do a secondary correction.", "PMID": 451063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9515", "title": "Tropical ulcers.", "content": "We present 87 cases of chronic leg ulcers. The ages and sexes of the patients, and the symptomatology and complications, are described. The term \"tropical ulcer\" is inappropriate for these cases--though the term may be appropriate for certain rare acute ulcers colonized by Vincent's bacilli. For most persistent leg ulcers in the tropics, however, a general term of chronic ulcer is better--because it stimulates one to look for the cause and to treat the patient accordingly.", "contents": "Tropical ulcers. We present 87 cases of chronic leg ulcers. The ages and sexes of the patients, and the symptomatology and complications, are described. The term \"tropical ulcer\" is inappropriate for these cases--though the term may be appropriate for certain rare acute ulcers colonized by Vincent's bacilli. For most persistent leg ulcers in the tropics, however, a general term of chronic ulcer is better--because it stimulates one to look for the cause and to treat the patient accordingly.", "PMID": 451064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9516", "title": "Surgical treatment of drooling by bilateral parotid duct ligation and submandibular gland resection.", "content": "We have followed 14 patients for up to 6 years after they had submaxillary gland resections and parotid duct ligations for drooling. Good to excellent results were found in more than 85 percent of them in the control saliva, and there have been no recurrences or fistulae. This procedure is technically simple to do, and it is associated with less morbidity than surgical relocation of the parotid ducts.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of drooling by bilateral parotid duct ligation and submandibular gland resection. We have followed 14 patients for up to 6 years after they had submaxillary gland resections and parotid duct ligations for drooling. Good to excellent results were found in more than 85 percent of them in the control saliva, and there have been no recurrences or fistulae. This procedure is technically simple to do, and it is associated with less morbidity than surgical relocation of the parotid ducts.", "PMID": 451065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9517", "title": "A study of gustatory and olfactory function in patients with craniofacial anomalies.", "content": "Olfactory and gustatory function can be reiably studied in patients with craniofacial anomalies over the age of 7 years. In our unoperated patients with orbital hypertelorism or craniofacial dysostosis, preoperative evaluation of the olfactory and gustatory functions showed normal values. The same techniques were employed to study any changes in these modalities following reconstructive craniofacial surgery, and the results are presented.", "contents": "A study of gustatory and olfactory function in patients with craniofacial anomalies. Olfactory and gustatory function can be reiably studied in patients with craniofacial anomalies over the age of 7 years. In our unoperated patients with orbital hypertelorism or craniofacial dysostosis, preoperative evaluation of the olfactory and gustatory functions showed normal values. The same techniques were employed to study any changes in these modalities following reconstructive craniofacial surgery, and the results are presented.", "PMID": 451066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9518", "title": "Simple method for reconstruction of the cleft hand with an adducted thumb.", "content": "We describe a new, simple method for reconstruction of a cleft hand. Ulnar transposition of the index ray followed by creation of a thumb web space is an effective way to get sufficient abduction of the thumb. This procedure is simpler than the traditional \"translocation of the flap,\" and also it produces no circulatory troubles to worry about.", "contents": "Simple method for reconstruction of the cleft hand with an adducted thumb. We describe a new, simple method for reconstruction of a cleft hand. Ulnar transposition of the index ray followed by creation of a thumb web space is an effective way to get sufficient abduction of the thumb. This procedure is simpler than the traditional \"translocation of the flap,\" and also it produces no circulatory troubles to worry about.", "PMID": 451067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9519", "title": "Evaluation of speech after correction of rhinophonia with pushback palatoplasty combined with pharyngeal flap.", "content": "A comparison is made of the preoperative and postoperative speech evaluations of 15 selected subjects who had pharyngeal flap operations combined with palatal pushback. Postoperatively, 13 of the 15 patients (86 percent) showed no abnormal nasal emission and no evidence of significant hypernasality during word production. Gross substitution errors were also corrected by the surgical repair. While the number of patients is small, this study indicates equal effectiveness of the surgical technique described--regardless of the sex, the medical diagnosis, whether the procedure was primary or secondary, or the amount of postoperative time--providing there is good function of the muscles of the soft palate.", "contents": "Evaluation of speech after correction of rhinophonia with pushback palatoplasty combined with pharyngeal flap. A comparison is made of the preoperative and postoperative speech evaluations of 15 selected subjects who had pharyngeal flap operations combined with palatal pushback. Postoperatively, 13 of the 15 patients (86 percent) showed no abnormal nasal emission and no evidence of significant hypernasality during word production. Gross substitution errors were also corrected by the surgical repair. While the number of patients is small, this study indicates equal effectiveness of the surgical technique described--regardless of the sex, the medical diagnosis, whether the procedure was primary or secondary, or the amount of postoperative time--providing there is good function of the muscles of the soft palate.", "PMID": 451068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9520", "title": "Influence of submucous septal resection on facial growth in the rat.", "content": "Submucous septal resections in young rats caused severe retardation of growth in the upper facial skeleton. These growth disturbances occurred regardless of whether the resections included both the cartilaginous septum and the corresponding mucoperichondrium, or only the cartilaginous septum. The degree of growth disturbance depends on the age when the resections are done.", "contents": "Influence of submucous septal resection on facial growth in the rat. Submucous septal resections in young rats caused severe retardation of growth in the upper facial skeleton. These growth disturbances occurred regardless of whether the resections included both the cartilaginous septum and the corresponding mucoperichondrium, or only the cartilaginous septum. The degree of growth disturbance depends on the age when the resections are done.", "PMID": 451069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9521", "title": "Thumb reconstruction with a sensory flap from the dorsum of the index finger.", "content": "The dorsal skin of the index ray is very useful (1) for a one-staged thumb lengthening procedure after amputation, (2) for covering the stump of an avulsed thumb with sensory skin, and (3) for expanding the first web space. The flap may be transferred as a rotation flap, or the dorsal vasculature and nerve supply to the index may be carefully dissected free as a pedicle to permit its use as a neurovascular island flap. We believe that considerably more sensory skin can be transferred by this flap than by the ring finger neurovascular island flap, and that the technical risks and surgical time are less with the index finger flap.", "contents": "Thumb reconstruction with a sensory flap from the dorsum of the index finger. The dorsal skin of the index ray is very useful (1) for a one-staged thumb lengthening procedure after amputation, (2) for covering the stump of an avulsed thumb with sensory skin, and (3) for expanding the first web space. The flap may be transferred as a rotation flap, or the dorsal vasculature and nerve supply to the index may be carefully dissected free as a pedicle to permit its use as a neurovascular island flap. We believe that considerably more sensory skin can be transferred by this flap than by the ring finger neurovascular island flap, and that the technical risks and surgical time are less with the index finger flap.", "PMID": 451073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9522", "title": "Satisfactions and dissatisfactions of patients with augmentation mammaplasty.", "content": "In the study group, the augmentation with silicone gel prostheses had a high rate (64%) of firmness (as felt by the patients), which seems not greatly affected by the surgeon or by patient exercises or manipulations. In the group, augmentations with saline-filled inflatable prostheses had a much lower incidence of firmness (40%, as felt by the patients). No deflations of the Heyer-Schulte R.T.V. \"Jenny\" prosthesis were found during the follow-up period. Augmentation mammaplasty by a certified plastic surgeon has a low rate of physical complications (in the range of one to two percent). However there were unfavorable cosmetic results causing patient dissatisfaction with part of the result in about 15%. The incidence of emotional dissatisfaction with the procedure as a whole, as judged by those who would not choose to repeat the operation, was less than 4%.", "contents": "Satisfactions and dissatisfactions of patients with augmentation mammaplasty. In the study group, the augmentation with silicone gel prostheses had a high rate (64%) of firmness (as felt by the patients), which seems not greatly affected by the surgeon or by patient exercises or manipulations. In the group, augmentations with saline-filled inflatable prostheses had a much lower incidence of firmness (40%, as felt by the patients). No deflations of the Heyer-Schulte R.T.V. \"Jenny\" prosthesis were found during the follow-up period. Augmentation mammaplasty by a certified plastic surgeon has a low rate of physical complications (in the range of one to two percent). However there were unfavorable cosmetic results causing patient dissatisfaction with part of the result in about 15%. The incidence of emotional dissatisfaction with the procedure as a whole, as judged by those who would not choose to repeat the operation, was less than 4%.", "PMID": 451074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9523", "title": "The muscle-suspension lower blepharoplasty.", "content": "The muscle-suspension (or muscle sling) lower blepharoplasty is a technique that can be used to some extent for all lower lids in which tightening and smoothing is desired. It seems to provide an extra degree of support by counteracting the natural tendency of gravity to produce scleral show or ectropion when the lid skin is tightened. It consists of anchoring a sling of orbicularis muscle to the periosteum of the lateral orbital rim, with an upward and lateral pull--while the skin is pulled in a more medial or upward direction.", "contents": "The muscle-suspension lower blepharoplasty. The muscle-suspension (or muscle sling) lower blepharoplasty is a technique that can be used to some extent for all lower lids in which tightening and smoothing is desired. It seems to provide an extra degree of support by counteracting the natural tendency of gravity to produce scleral show or ectropion when the lid skin is tightened. It consists of anchoring a sling of orbicularis muscle to the periosteum of the lateral orbital rim, with an upward and lateral pull--while the skin is pulled in a more medial or upward direction.", "PMID": 451075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9524", "title": "Straightening the twisted nose.", "content": "For correction of the twisted nose, the use of a dorsal onlay cartilage graft, obtained from the resected septum, produces the illusion of a straight nose. This persists in spite of any recurrences of deviations in the septum or upper lateral cartilages.", "contents": "Straightening the twisted nose. For correction of the twisted nose, the use of a dorsal onlay cartilage graft, obtained from the resected septum, produces the illusion of a straight nose. This persists in spite of any recurrences of deviations in the septum or upper lateral cartilages.", "PMID": 451076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9525", "title": "Velopharyngeal function following maxillary advancement.", "content": "In a series of 40 patients who had maxillary advancements, none developed velopharyngeal incompetence. Unlike the cleft palate patient who is more at risk, there are distinct anatomical characteristics in craniofacial dysostosis which favor maintenance of the integrity of the velopharyngeal mechanism. Hyponasality was eliminated in 5 patients with Crouzon's disease. On cephalometric study, it was observed that after maxillary advancement the nasopharyngeal volume was expanded and the angle formed by the hard and soft palates was increased. On phonating cephalograms, the velopharyngeal contact became more physiological after maxillary advancement in the craniofacial dysostosis patient. The only postoperative articulatory changes after maxillary advancement were in the production of the /s/ sound, which is particularly sensitive to changes in dentoalveolar relationships.", "contents": "Velopharyngeal function following maxillary advancement. In a series of 40 patients who had maxillary advancements, none developed velopharyngeal incompetence. Unlike the cleft palate patient who is more at risk, there are distinct anatomical characteristics in craniofacial dysostosis which favor maintenance of the integrity of the velopharyngeal mechanism. Hyponasality was eliminated in 5 patients with Crouzon's disease. On cephalometric study, it was observed that after maxillary advancement the nasopharyngeal volume was expanded and the angle formed by the hard and soft palates was increased. On phonating cephalograms, the velopharyngeal contact became more physiological after maxillary advancement in the craniofacial dysostosis patient. The only postoperative articulatory changes after maxillary advancement were in the production of the /s/ sound, which is particularly sensitive to changes in dentoalveolar relationships.", "PMID": 451077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9526", "title": "Orbital floor fractures--should they be explored early?", "content": "One hundred consecutive cases of orbital floor fractures from varying causes are reviewed, and the admission symptoms and signs are compared to the late results. We considered the early findings of diplopia, infraorbital rim step-off, and hypesthesia (with an associated clinical diagnosis of malar bone involvement) an indication for exploration of the orbital floor and possible placement of silicone sheeting. When this was done, minimal complications resulted.", "contents": "Orbital floor fractures--should they be explored early? One hundred consecutive cases of orbital floor fractures from varying causes are reviewed, and the admission symptoms and signs are compared to the late results. We considered the early findings of diplopia, infraorbital rim step-off, and hypesthesia (with an associated clinical diagnosis of malar bone involvement) an indication for exploration of the orbital floor and possible placement of silicone sheeting. When this was done, minimal complications resulted.", "PMID": 451078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9527", "title": "Method for measurement of circumduction of the thumb to evaluate results of opponensplasty.", "content": "A simple method for measuring circumduction of the thumb, by using a ratio of the range of motion to the length of the first metacarpal, is described. This method can be of value in assessing many aspects of thumb function, especially the improvement in function after opponensplasty. The improved ability to position the thumb in a useful location, both for pinch and grasp, appears to correlate well with the patient's use of the hand for previously impossible tasks.", "contents": "Method for measurement of circumduction of the thumb to evaluate results of opponensplasty. A simple method for measuring circumduction of the thumb, by using a ratio of the range of motion to the length of the first metacarpal, is described. This method can be of value in assessing many aspects of thumb function, especially the improvement in function after opponensplasty. The improved ability to position the thumb in a useful location, both for pinch and grasp, appears to correlate well with the patient's use of the hand for previously impossible tasks.", "PMID": 451080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9528", "title": "Experimental transplantation of small joints by microvascular anastomoses.", "content": "Metacarpophalangeal joints in dogs were transplanted with microvascular anastomoses. Some were transplanted as half-joints, others as whole joints, and these dogs were followed for up to 5 1/2 months. When a half-joint was transplanted within the foot, the joint movement became restricted but the vascularized half-joints were well preserved with only slight damage and well-preserved epiphyseal plates--compared to severe damage of the articular cartilage and destruction of the epiphyseal plates in the non-vascularized joint transplants. Vascularized whole joint transplants within the foot were indistinguishable macroscopically and microscopically from normal joints, and they had only a slight restriction of joint movement. They took up tetracycline from the circulation, demonstrating their viability.", "contents": "Experimental transplantation of small joints by microvascular anastomoses. Metacarpophalangeal joints in dogs were transplanted with microvascular anastomoses. Some were transplanted as half-joints, others as whole joints, and these dogs were followed for up to 5 1/2 months. When a half-joint was transplanted within the foot, the joint movement became restricted but the vascularized half-joints were well preserved with only slight damage and well-preserved epiphyseal plates--compared to severe damage of the articular cartilage and destruction of the epiphyseal plates in the non-vascularized joint transplants. Vascularized whole joint transplants within the foot were indistinguishable macroscopically and microscopically from normal joints, and they had only a slight restriction of joint movement. They took up tetracycline from the circulation, demonstrating their viability.", "PMID": 451081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9529", "title": "Predicting by electromyography the results of nonsurgical treatment of temporomandibular joint syndrome.", "content": "This study of 308 patients demonstrated that reliance upon physical findings alone is not reliable for the diagnosis and the prediction of treatment success in TMJS. However, those patients who had a lengthened masseteric silent period on the EMG had a 93% success rate from treatment with occlusal splint and occlusal adjustment. In contrast, those patients who had a normal masseteric silent period on the EMG had only a 21 percent success rate from the same therapy.", "contents": "Predicting by electromyography the results of nonsurgical treatment of temporomandibular joint syndrome. This study of 308 patients demonstrated that reliance upon physical findings alone is not reliable for the diagnosis and the prediction of treatment success in TMJS. However, those patients who had a lengthened masseteric silent period on the EMG had a 93% success rate from treatment with occlusal splint and occlusal adjustment. In contrast, those patients who had a normal masseteric silent period on the EMG had only a 21 percent success rate from the same therapy.", "PMID": 451082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9530", "title": "Growth in revascularized bone grafts in young puppies.", "content": "The results of microvascular transfers of growing ulnas in puppy forelegs have been studied. These transfers were carried out both heterotopically and orthotopically. The growth in the revascularized bone grafts has been compared to that in heterotopic, nonvascularized ulna transfers and to normal ulnar growth. The growth in the vascularized bone grafts was significantly greater than in the nonvascularized grafts, but significantly less than in normal ulnar growth. A metaphyseal contribution to the blood supply of the growing portion of long bones is suggested.", "contents": "Growth in revascularized bone grafts in young puppies. The results of microvascular transfers of growing ulnas in puppy forelegs have been studied. These transfers were carried out both heterotopically and orthotopically. The growth in the revascularized bone grafts has been compared to that in heterotopic, nonvascularized ulna transfers and to normal ulnar growth. The growth in the vascularized bone grafts was significantly greater than in the nonvascularized grafts, but significantly less than in normal ulnar growth. A metaphyseal contribution to the blood supply of the growing portion of long bones is suggested.", "PMID": 451083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9531", "title": "Reduction of the hypertrophic earlobe.", "content": "The reduction of hypertrophied earlobes in a young patient is presented. The etiology of hypertrophied earlobes, and several methods for correcting this deformity, are discussed.", "contents": "Reduction of the hypertrophic earlobe. The reduction of hypertrophied earlobes in a young patient is presented. The etiology of hypertrophied earlobes, and several methods for correcting this deformity, are discussed.", "PMID": 451089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9532", "title": "[The contribution of forensic psychiatry in the determination of punishable guilt].", "content": "As part of the consultative discussions between members of the Supreme Court and workers at the Department of Forensic Psychiatry, G.D.R. Institute of Psychiatrists and Neurologists, problems are being dealt here with, which have been discussed by the present authors as early as in 1972. These are questions arising in connection with expert opinions on responsibility and guilt and concerning the offender's personality, the motives, the kind and extent of guilt, the possible exclusion of guilt, as well as urges of passion beyond the limits of paragraphs 15 and 16 in addition to exceptional objective and subjective circumstances.", "contents": "[The contribution of forensic psychiatry in the determination of punishable guilt]. As part of the consultative discussions between members of the Supreme Court and workers at the Department of Forensic Psychiatry, G.D.R. Institute of Psychiatrists and Neurologists, problems are being dealt here with, which have been discussed by the present authors as early as in 1972. These are questions arising in connection with expert opinions on responsibility and guilt and concerning the offender's personality, the motives, the kind and extent of guilt, the possible exclusion of guilt, as well as urges of passion beyond the limits of paragraphs 15 and 16 in addition to exceptional objective and subjective circumstances.", "PMID": 451091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9533", "title": "[Facial myokomias in brain stem tumors].", "content": "Four cases of brain-stem tumor were described, in which myokymias were electromyographically derived from the region of several cerebral nerves. An attempt is made to interpret the effects of twitching by reference to the electromyogram. Myokymias are a positive indication of organic brain stem damage. The use subtle techniques of electromyographic examination shows that this muscular hyperkinesis is not so infrequent a symptom as is generally believed.", "contents": "[Facial myokomias in brain stem tumors]. Four cases of brain-stem tumor were described, in which myokymias were electromyographically derived from the region of several cerebral nerves. An attempt is made to interpret the effects of twitching by reference to the electromyogram. Myokymias are a positive indication of organic brain stem damage. The use subtle techniques of electromyographic examination shows that this muscular hyperkinesis is not so infrequent a symptom as is generally believed.", "PMID": 451092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9534", "title": "[Possible diagnostic misinterpretations in chronic epidural hematoma].", "content": "Of fifteen epidural hematomas with a protracted course of growth, three were preoperatively diagnosed on the suspicion of tumorous growth. By taking into account the entire course of disease, evidence of posttraumatic complications was obtained only from anamneses and, in one single case, from a fracture of the skull. Using the methods of instrumental neuroradiological diagnosis, the intracranial occupation of space could not be observed to be outside of the cerebrum.", "contents": "[Possible diagnostic misinterpretations in chronic epidural hematoma]. Of fifteen epidural hematomas with a protracted course of growth, three were preoperatively diagnosed on the suspicion of tumorous growth. By taking into account the entire course of disease, evidence of posttraumatic complications was obtained only from anamneses and, in one single case, from a fracture of the skull. Using the methods of instrumental neuroradiological diagnosis, the intracranial occupation of space could not be observed to be outside of the cerebrum.", "PMID": 451093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9535", "title": "[Vegetative phenomena in the course of depressive states].", "content": "Depressive psychoses are accompanied by vegetative disorders. Third-order blood-pressure waves are an expression of vasomotor rhythms which through diencephalic and limbic structures tend to adjust the blood pressure to the respective overall psychovegetative situation. In the case of depressions with an axious increase of impulse, statistical evidence was obtained, within the framework of clinical improvement, for a correlation between a decreasing score of depression and an increasing frequency of third-order waves. The same central trends of these quantities suggest that both of them are different manifestations of a common functional disorder in the limbic system and diencephalon.", "contents": "[Vegetative phenomena in the course of depressive states]. Depressive psychoses are accompanied by vegetative disorders. Third-order blood-pressure waves are an expression of vasomotor rhythms which through diencephalic and limbic structures tend to adjust the blood pressure to the respective overall psychovegetative situation. In the case of depressions with an axious increase of impulse, statistical evidence was obtained, within the framework of clinical improvement, for a correlation between a decreasing score of depression and an increasing frequency of third-order waves. The same central trends of these quantities suggest that both of them are different manifestations of a common functional disorder in the limbic system and diencephalon.", "PMID": 451094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9536", "title": "[Psychogymnastic. A nonverbal technic in the course of dynamic group psychotherapy].", "content": "This article describes psychogymnastics which is a nonverbal technique employed in dynamically oriented group psychotherapy and which has for many years been successfully used by workers at the day sanatorium at Palata, Prague. Practical examples are given to explain the use of characteristic methods of treatment.", "contents": "[Psychogymnastic. A nonverbal technic in the course of dynamic group psychotherapy]. This article describes psychogymnastics which is a nonverbal technique employed in dynamically oriented group psychotherapy and which has for many years been successfully used by workers at the day sanatorium at Palata, Prague. Practical examples are given to explain the use of characteristic methods of treatment.", "PMID": 451095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9537", "title": "Validity and reliability of a self-administered health history questionnaire.", "content": "A self-administered, health history questionnaire devised for routine use in a general medical clinic is completed without the assistance of clinic personnel and used, unedited, by the providers. The reliability and validity of the responses of 23 patients to this questionnaire were tested statistically. In our setting, more than 90 percent of the patients referred for care are capable of completing the questionnaire. The 23 patients averaged 32 minutes to complete the questionnaire. An average of 34 minutes of encounter time is required to obtain the same historical data by interview. Test-retest reliability of patients' responses to the questionnaire was 90 percent. More than 92 percent of the patients' written responses to health history items agreed with the data obtained in a blinded fashion by internists in the traditional interview. The questionnaire accurately obtains items of history frequently missing from the recorded ambulabory care data base, and in some instances obtains items of history more effectively than the interviewing physician. The study results showed a low incidence of false positive (1.8 percent) and false negative (2.8 percent) responses to questionnaire items.", "contents": "Validity and reliability of a self-administered health history questionnaire. A self-administered, health history questionnaire devised for routine use in a general medical clinic is completed without the assistance of clinic personnel and used, unedited, by the providers. The reliability and validity of the responses of 23 patients to this questionnaire were tested statistically. In our setting, more than 90 percent of the patients referred for care are capable of completing the questionnaire. The 23 patients averaged 32 minutes to complete the questionnaire. An average of 34 minutes of encounter time is required to obtain the same historical data by interview. Test-retest reliability of patients' responses to the questionnaire was 90 percent. More than 92 percent of the patients' written responses to health history items agreed with the data obtained in a blinded fashion by internists in the traditional interview. The questionnaire accurately obtains items of history frequently missing from the recorded ambulabory care data base, and in some instances obtains items of history more effectively than the interviewing physician. The study results showed a low incidence of false positive (1.8 percent) and false negative (2.8 percent) responses to questionnaire items.", "PMID": 451132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9538", "title": "Early diagnosis of malignant pulmonary lesions. Importance of tumor size and growth rate.", "content": "The prognosis of peripheral lung cancer and the possibilities of an early diagnosis are discussed on the basis of a unique case of a small bronchogenic carcinoma which was followed with routine radiography over an eight year period. The tumor growth rate as reflected by volume doubling time is utilized for determination of the earliest possible visibility and evolution time. Certain conclusions are drawn about the importance of an early diagnosis and therapy for the prospective chances of a radical cure.", "contents": "Early diagnosis of malignant pulmonary lesions. Importance of tumor size and growth rate. The prognosis of peripheral lung cancer and the possibilities of an early diagnosis are discussed on the basis of a unique case of a small bronchogenic carcinoma which was followed with routine radiography over an eight year period. The tumor growth rate as reflected by volume doubling time is utilized for determination of the earliest possible visibility and evolution time. Certain conclusions are drawn about the importance of an early diagnosis and therapy for the prospective chances of a radical cure.", "PMID": 451174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9539", "title": "Invasive radiology in the diagnosis of mediastinal masses. Use of fine needle for aspiration biopsy.", "content": "A review is presented of the radiological and surgical procedures used for diagnosing mediastinal masses. The radiological examinations evaluate the size, shape and site of the mediastinal lesion, whereas the surgical methods provide tissue diagnosis. Fine needle aspiration biopsy which is an invasive radiological procedure has the advantage of obtaining cytological diagnosis. The method is described and the results of 56 biopsies in 38 patients are discussed in detail. The success rate is 76% and increasing steadily as further experience is gained. The complications are of a light nature and with the exception of one patient no treatment was necessary.", "contents": "Invasive radiology in the diagnosis of mediastinal masses. Use of fine needle for aspiration biopsy. A review is presented of the radiological and surgical procedures used for diagnosing mediastinal masses. The radiological examinations evaluate the size, shape and site of the mediastinal lesion, whereas the surgical methods provide tissue diagnosis. Fine needle aspiration biopsy which is an invasive radiological procedure has the advantage of obtaining cytological diagnosis. The method is described and the results of 56 biopsies in 38 patients are discussed in detail. The success rate is 76% and increasing steadily as further experience is gained. The complications are of a light nature and with the exception of one patient no treatment was necessary.", "PMID": 451175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9540", "title": "[Ultrasonically guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsies (author's transl)].", "content": "Ultrasonically guided percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsies were carried out in 179 patients with sonographically proven space occupying lesions of the liver, pancreas and kidneys as well as the retroperitoneal space. The fine needle aspiration biopsies were done using a B-scan-aspiration-biopsy transducer with a special needle having an outer diameter of 0,4--0,6 mm. Liver metastases were proven cytologically in 57/70 patients (81%), pancreatic carcinomas in 20/31 patients (64%), kidney tumours in 15/20 patients (75%), retroperitoneal lymph node metastases and primary malignant lymphomas in 20/32 patients (62%). The ultrasonically guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is simple, practically without pain, risk or complications for the patient, and is an economically feasible examination method.", "contents": "[Ultrasonically guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsies (author's transl)]. Ultrasonically guided percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsies were carried out in 179 patients with sonographically proven space occupying lesions of the liver, pancreas and kidneys as well as the retroperitoneal space. The fine needle aspiration biopsies were done using a B-scan-aspiration-biopsy transducer with a special needle having an outer diameter of 0,4--0,6 mm. Liver metastases were proven cytologically in 57/70 patients (81%), pancreatic carcinomas in 20/31 patients (64%), kidney tumours in 15/20 patients (75%), retroperitoneal lymph node metastases and primary malignant lymphomas in 20/32 patients (62%). The ultrasonically guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is simple, practically without pain, risk or complications for the patient, and is an economically feasible examination method.", "PMID": 451176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9541", "title": "[CT guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsy (author's transl)].", "content": "Technical aspects of CT guided fine needle biopsy are discussed. Since CT enables the topographic-anatomical localization of even small mass lesions, the success rate of CT guided biopsy may be considerably high. The diagnostic potential of the method for the biopsy of various organs is discussed.", "contents": "[CT guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsy (author's transl)]. Technical aspects of CT guided fine needle biopsy are discussed. Since CT enables the topographic-anatomical localization of even small mass lesions, the success rate of CT guided biopsy may be considerably high. The diagnostic potential of the method for the biopsy of various organs is discussed.", "PMID": 451177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9542", "title": "Isolated azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava.", "content": "Our case of azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava is very rare because there was no associated heart disease or abdominal situs inversus. The diagnosis of this anomaly of the inferior vena cava should be suspected by observation of a dilated azygos vein on the chest roentgenogram and confirmed by venography.", "contents": "Isolated azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava. Our case of azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava is very rare because there was no associated heart disease or abdominal situs inversus. The diagnosis of this anomaly of the inferior vena cava should be suspected by observation of a dilated azygos vein on the chest roentgenogram and confirmed by venography.", "PMID": 451178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9543", "title": "[X-rays in the eye of the general public. A survey of 181 interviews with office personnel (author's transl)].", "content": "For a pilot study, a random sample of 181 office personnel in steel companies were interviewed about their knowledge and feelings on X-rays and other forms of ionizing radiation. The general knowledge about the beneficial and detrimental aspects of X-rays was good, with education at school and news media reports being the main sources of information (70%). In general, the news media are considered to give objective and correct reports on this matter. 85% of the interviewed held ionizing radiation to be at least somewhat dangerous. Those with higher education (college/university) were significantly more vocal on the dangerous aspects. Concerning personal fear of X-rays, 30% were at least somewhat fearful. A significant correlation was found between statements on the dangerous aspects and subjective feelings of fear (anxiety). Interestingly, there was no correlation between general fearfulness (manifest anxiety) and fear of X-rays.", "contents": "[X-rays in the eye of the general public. A survey of 181 interviews with office personnel (author's transl)]. For a pilot study, a random sample of 181 office personnel in steel companies were interviewed about their knowledge and feelings on X-rays and other forms of ionizing radiation. The general knowledge about the beneficial and detrimental aspects of X-rays was good, with education at school and news media reports being the main sources of information (70%). In general, the news media are considered to give objective and correct reports on this matter. 85% of the interviewed held ionizing radiation to be at least somewhat dangerous. Those with higher education (college/university) were significantly more vocal on the dangerous aspects. Concerning personal fear of X-rays, 30% were at least somewhat fearful. A significant correlation was found between statements on the dangerous aspects and subjective feelings of fear (anxiety). Interestingly, there was no correlation between general fearfulness (manifest anxiety) and fear of X-rays.", "PMID": 451179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9544", "title": "Radiologic features of Reiter disease.", "content": "The radiologic manifestations of Reiter disease in 56 patients are described. Although the findings are often nonspecific, certain features are distinctive, particularly when present in combination. These include subtle periosteal bone apposition at bony prominences, the infrequency of regional panarthritis and hip and shoulder involvement, the tendency for destructive arthritis to be confined to small joints, particularly in the feet, and a typically \"discontinuous\" spondylitis characterized by eccentric, laterally positioned vertebral hyperostoses which tend to bridge around the contigous disk. Attention is drawn to similar hyperostoses which occur above the true sacroiliac joints. The significance of these features, particularly in terms of differential diagnosis, is discussed.", "contents": "Radiologic features of Reiter disease. The radiologic manifestations of Reiter disease in 56 patients are described. Although the findings are often nonspecific, certain features are distinctive, particularly when present in combination. These include subtle periosteal bone apposition at bony prominences, the infrequency of regional panarthritis and hip and shoulder involvement, the tendency for destructive arthritis to be confined to small joints, particularly in the feet, and a typically \"discontinuous\" spondylitis characterized by eccentric, laterally positioned vertebral hyperostoses which tend to bridge around the contigous disk. Attention is drawn to similar hyperostoses which occur above the true sacroiliac joints. The significance of these features, particularly in terms of differential diagnosis, is discussed.", "PMID": 451180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9545", "title": "Computed tomography of the osseous pelvis.", "content": "Computed tomography (CT) was used for study of the osseous pelvis in 43 patients with definitive pathological or clinical follow-up. CT accurately characterized and determined extent of bone and soft-tissue involvement; neoplasms and other disease processes, such as sacroiliac joint disease, were well localized. In cases of trauma, CT was able to identify, localize, and characterize fracture fragments and bone or joint displacement. CT was judged \"useful\" or \"definitive\" in 80% of all lesions and 96% of neoplasms studied.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the osseous pelvis. Computed tomography (CT) was used for study of the osseous pelvis in 43 patients with definitive pathological or clinical follow-up. CT accurately characterized and determined extent of bone and soft-tissue involvement; neoplasms and other disease processes, such as sacroiliac joint disease, were well localized. In cases of trauma, CT was able to identify, localize, and characterize fracture fragments and bone or joint displacement. CT was judged \"useful\" or \"definitive\" in 80% of all lesions and 96% of neoplasms studied.", "PMID": 451181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9546", "title": "The tracheo-esophageal stripe and the posterior tracheal band.", "content": "While recognizing the importance of the posterior tracheal band as described previously, the author wishes to emphasize the separate characteristics of the tracheo-esophageal stripe and emphasize its importance as a sign of air in the esophagus as well as possible underlying esophageal pathology. Any such band or stripe measuring 3 mm or more in the cervical or thoracic region should be viewed with some suspicion.", "contents": "The tracheo-esophageal stripe and the posterior tracheal band. While recognizing the importance of the posterior tracheal band as described previously, the author wishes to emphasize the separate characteristics of the tracheo-esophageal stripe and emphasize its importance as a sign of air in the esophagus as well as possible underlying esophageal pathology. Any such band or stripe measuring 3 mm or more in the cervical or thoracic region should be viewed with some suspicion.", "PMID": 451182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9547", "title": "Iosefamate meglumine: an iodinated contrast agent for hepatic computed tomography scanning.", "content": "Iosefamate meglumine, a water-soluble, iodinated compound which is chemically and pharmacologically similar to iodipamide, was studied as a contrast agent for hepatic CT scanning in dogs. The difference between the CT attenuation number of liver and blood increased by 16 EMI units after intravenous injection of iosefamate 150 mg l/kg. The agent may prove useful in improving the CT detection of isodense tumors within the liver.", "contents": "Iosefamate meglumine: an iodinated contrast agent for hepatic computed tomography scanning. Iosefamate meglumine, a water-soluble, iodinated compound which is chemically and pharmacologically similar to iodipamide, was studied as a contrast agent for hepatic CT scanning in dogs. The difference between the CT attenuation number of liver and blood increased by 16 EMI units after intravenous injection of iosefamate 150 mg l/kg. The agent may prove useful in improving the CT detection of isodense tumors within the liver.", "PMID": 451183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9548", "title": "Comparison of gray-scale ultrasonography and computed tomography in the evaluation of macrocrania in infants.", "content": "Head scans in 27 infants were done to compare the value of ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of macrocrania and encephalocele. Ultrasonography and CT correlated well with regard to anatomical information, especially in the assessment of the lateral and third ventricles. However, unlike CT, ultrasonography uses no ionizing radiation, is less expensive, eliminates sedation, and reduces artifacts due to motion and metal clips. In conjunction with an initial CT examination, ultrasonography is useful for serial evaluation of the lateral and third ventricles. It can also be helpful in assessing extraventricular fluid collections and suspected encephaloceles.", "contents": "Comparison of gray-scale ultrasonography and computed tomography in the evaluation of macrocrania in infants. Head scans in 27 infants were done to compare the value of ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of macrocrania and encephalocele. Ultrasonography and CT correlated well with regard to anatomical information, especially in the assessment of the lateral and third ventricles. However, unlike CT, ultrasonography uses no ionizing radiation, is less expensive, eliminates sedation, and reduces artifacts due to motion and metal clips. In conjunction with an initial CT examination, ultrasonography is useful for serial evaluation of the lateral and third ventricles. It can also be helpful in assessing extraventricular fluid collections and suspected encephaloceles.", "PMID": 451184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9549", "title": "Gray-scale ultrasonography of hepatic amoebic abscesses.", "content": "Retrospective analysis of the ultrasonograms of 42 hepatic amoebic abscesses in 34 patients was performed. All lesions were less echogenic than normal liver. All but 1 were contiguous with the liver capsule and had slight distal sonic enhancement. Twenty-three were predominantly homogeneous with fine, low-level echoes. This pattern is highly suggestive of hepatic amoebic abscess. Nineteen abscesses did not show this pattern and could not be diagnosed based on ultrasonographic criteria.", "contents": "Gray-scale ultrasonography of hepatic amoebic abscesses. Retrospective analysis of the ultrasonograms of 42 hepatic amoebic abscesses in 34 patients was performed. All lesions were less echogenic than normal liver. All but 1 were contiguous with the liver capsule and had slight distal sonic enhancement. Twenty-three were predominantly homogeneous with fine, low-level echoes. This pattern is highly suggestive of hepatic amoebic abscess. Nineteen abscesses did not show this pattern and could not be diagnosed based on ultrasonographic criteria.", "PMID": 451185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9550", "title": "Type II choledochal cyst: ultrasonographic appearance.", "content": "The ultrasonic findings in a rare Type II choledochal cyst are described. In patients with a right upper quadrant mass in whom the clinical, ultrasonic, or radiographic findings are atypical for other etiologies, this diagnosis should be considered.", "contents": "Type II choledochal cyst: ultrasonographic appearance. The ultrasonic findings in a rare Type II choledochal cyst are described. In patients with a right upper quadrant mass in whom the clinical, ultrasonic, or radiographic findings are atypical for other etiologies, this diagnosis should be considered.", "PMID": 451186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9551", "title": "Ultrasound observations in multiple gestation with first trimester bleeding: the blighted twin.", "content": "Twenty-two patients, 19 of whom presented with first trimester bleeding, underwent ultrasound examination demonstrating a normal amniotic cavity containing a fetus with regular heart activity. In each, a separate anechoic or hypoechoic region was identified within the uterus compatible with a coexistent anembryonic pregnancy or \"blighted twin.\" Three patterns, (a) second sac, (b) crescent of fluid outlining the intact sac, and (c) septal division of the amniotic cavity with one compartment empty, are described. Seven additional cases showing variant situations are discussed. The diagnosis of blighted twin carries a good prognosis for carrying the single gestation to term.", "contents": "Ultrasound observations in multiple gestation with first trimester bleeding: the blighted twin. Twenty-two patients, 19 of whom presented with first trimester bleeding, underwent ultrasound examination demonstrating a normal amniotic cavity containing a fetus with regular heart activity. In each, a separate anechoic or hypoechoic region was identified within the uterus compatible with a coexistent anembryonic pregnancy or \"blighted twin.\" Three patterns, (a) second sac, (b) crescent of fluid outlining the intact sac, and (c) septal division of the amniotic cavity with one compartment empty, are described. Seven additional cases showing variant situations are discussed. The diagnosis of blighted twin carries a good prognosis for carrying the single gestation to term.", "PMID": 451187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9552", "title": "Cavernous hemangioma of the liver: ultrasonography, arteriography, and computed tomography.", "content": "Gray-scale ultrasonography and angiography were performed on 5 patients with cavernous hemangioma of the liver. Four patients also had radionuclide scans and 2 had computed tomography. Angiography was the most specific diagnostic examination; the findings of the other 3 techniques were nonspecific, yet valuable for initial identification of the lesions and their characterization as solid tumors.", "contents": "Cavernous hemangioma of the liver: ultrasonography, arteriography, and computed tomography. Gray-scale ultrasonography and angiography were performed on 5 patients with cavernous hemangioma of the liver. Four patients also had radionuclide scans and 2 had computed tomography. Angiography was the most specific diagnostic examination; the findings of the other 3 techniques were nonspecific, yet valuable for initial identification of the lesions and their characterization as solid tumors.", "PMID": 451188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9553", "title": "Scintigraphy and ultrasonograhy of hepatic hemangioma.", "content": "The clinical findings, radionuclide scintigrams, and ultrasonograms of hepatic hemangiomas are described for 11 patients. Scintigraphy frequently demonstrated a marginal or subcapsular location. The lesions were otherwise nonspecific in appearance and were indistinguishable from metastatic foci. Sonographically, hypoechoic, hyperechoic, and predominantly anechoic patterns were observed, not unlike those described for malignant foci. However, 7 hemangiomas had a central linear septum. Liver function tests were normal in all patients. Since percutaneous biopsy is hazardous and hepatic angiography usually diagnostic, the scintigraphic and ultrasonic appearances described may help in the selection of the appropriate investigative studies.", "contents": "Scintigraphy and ultrasonograhy of hepatic hemangioma. The clinical findings, radionuclide scintigrams, and ultrasonograms of hepatic hemangiomas are described for 11 patients. Scintigraphy frequently demonstrated a marginal or subcapsular location. The lesions were otherwise nonspecific in appearance and were indistinguishable from metastatic foci. Sonographically, hypoechoic, hyperechoic, and predominantly anechoic patterns were observed, not unlike those described for malignant foci. However, 7 hemangiomas had a central linear septum. Liver function tests were normal in all patients. Since percutaneous biopsy is hazardous and hepatic angiography usually diagnostic, the scintigraphic and ultrasonic appearances described may help in the selection of the appropriate investigative studies.", "PMID": 451189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9554", "title": "Brodie abscess: reappraisal.", "content": "Upon review, 25 cases of Brodie abscess demonstrated a radiological spectrum not previously appreciated. One third of the lesions were diaphyseal in location, and 50% had associated cortical thickening, while 40% showed a stimulated periosteal reaction, and 20% contained sequestra. The variable radiological appearance was underscored by the fact that the preoperative diagnosis was other than osteomyelitis in half the cases. A diverse nomenclature has proliferated to describe and catalogue bone abscess formation. Although the radiological spectrum is broad, the unanimity of clinical presentation, pathological findings, and response to surgical excision supports the concept of a single entity with variable expression.", "contents": "Brodie abscess: reappraisal. Upon review, 25 cases of Brodie abscess demonstrated a radiological spectrum not previously appreciated. One third of the lesions were diaphyseal in location, and 50% had associated cortical thickening, while 40% showed a stimulated periosteal reaction, and 20% contained sequestra. The variable radiological appearance was underscored by the fact that the preoperative diagnosis was other than osteomyelitis in half the cases. A diverse nomenclature has proliferated to describe and catalogue bone abscess formation. Although the radiological spectrum is broad, the unanimity of clinical presentation, pathological findings, and response to surgical excision supports the concept of a single entity with variable expression.", "PMID": 451190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9555", "title": "Reproducibility of ejection fraction and ventricular volume by gated radionuclide angiography after myocardial infarction.", "content": "To validate the repeated use of radionuclide equilibrium angiography for determining left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) and end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (EDV and ESV), 25 patients were studied on an hourly basis an average of 9.1 days after acute myocardial infarction. Data were processed with a semi-automatic computer program which develops an averaged-volume curve from an assigned LV region-of-interest. LV EDV and ESV were derived from a previously described method which correlates well with contrast angiography (r = 0.977, y = 0.0255x - 0.121). Comparison between initial and subsequent equilibrium EF and between initial and subsequent volumes showed excellent correlation. Excluding three anginal episodes, the EF variation between studies averaged 0.03 +/- 0.02.", "contents": "Reproducibility of ejection fraction and ventricular volume by gated radionuclide angiography after myocardial infarction. To validate the repeated use of radionuclide equilibrium angiography for determining left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) and end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (EDV and ESV), 25 patients were studied on an hourly basis an average of 9.1 days after acute myocardial infarction. Data were processed with a semi-automatic computer program which develops an averaged-volume curve from an assigned LV region-of-interest. LV EDV and ESV were derived from a previously described method which correlates well with contrast angiography (r = 0.977, y = 0.0255x - 0.121). Comparison between initial and subsequent equilibrium EF and between initial and subsequent volumes showed excellent correlation. Excluding three anginal episodes, the EF variation between studies averaged 0.03 +/- 0.02.", "PMID": 451192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9556", "title": "Clinical standardization of the new dual cardiac probe.", "content": "A new mobile dual cardiac probe has been introduced for measurements of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In 28 patients, correlation between LVEFs measured by the dual probe and biplane contrast ventriculography was 0.83. Central and peripheral injections yielded comparable curves, and the resultant LVEFs correlated well (R = 0.95). Correlation between LFEVs determined by the probe and by gated blood pool imaging in 43 patients was also 0.83. In 21 patients given three serial injections of 99mTc-albumin, the mean variation of the ejection fraction was 4.2 +/- 3.2%; however, reproducibility was unsatisfactory using 99mTc-sulfur colloid due to sequestration in hepatic background tissue.", "contents": "Clinical standardization of the new dual cardiac probe. A new mobile dual cardiac probe has been introduced for measurements of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In 28 patients, correlation between LVEFs measured by the dual probe and biplane contrast ventriculography was 0.83. Central and peripheral injections yielded comparable curves, and the resultant LVEFs correlated well (R = 0.95). Correlation between LFEVs determined by the probe and by gated blood pool imaging in 43 patients was also 0.83. In 21 patients given three serial injections of 99mTc-albumin, the mean variation of the ejection fraction was 4.2 +/- 3.2%; however, reproducibility was unsatisfactory using 99mTc-sulfur colloid due to sequestration in hepatic background tissue.", "PMID": 451193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9557", "title": "Demonstration of bleeding site by 99mTc-labeled red cells.", "content": "Radionuclide angiography using in vivo 99mTc-tagged red cells demonstrated different bleeding sites in one patient on three occasions. The study is easy to perform and may be more sensitive than contrast angiography in the presence of slow bleeding.", "contents": "Demonstration of bleeding site by 99mTc-labeled red cells. Radionuclide angiography using in vivo 99mTc-tagged red cells demonstrated different bleeding sites in one patient on three occasions. The study is easy to perform and may be more sensitive than contrast angiography in the presence of slow bleeding.", "PMID": 451194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9558", "title": "Tumor sterilization following high-dose pre-operative irradiation for advanced cancer of the larynx or pyriform sinus.", "content": "Twenty-two patients with advanced laryngeal cancer and 5 with advanced pyriform sinus cancer were given 51 Gy (5,100 rad) followed by surgical resection. In 10 (45%) of patients with laryngeal cancer, no tumor was found at the primary site pathologically; 15 (68%) had negative neck specimens. All of those with pyriform sinus cancer had positive specimens. Eighteen patients with laryngeal cancer are free of disease. In contrast, only 1 with pyriform sinus cancer is free of disease; 1 has had a local recurrence and 3 have had metastases. The data suggest that 51 Gy (5,100 rad) are insufficient to sterilize pyriform sinus cancer; higher doses together with adjuvant chemotherapy are needed.", "contents": "Tumor sterilization following high-dose pre-operative irradiation for advanced cancer of the larynx or pyriform sinus. Twenty-two patients with advanced laryngeal cancer and 5 with advanced pyriform sinus cancer were given 51 Gy (5,100 rad) followed by surgical resection. In 10 (45%) of patients with laryngeal cancer, no tumor was found at the primary site pathologically; 15 (68%) had negative neck specimens. All of those with pyriform sinus cancer had positive specimens. Eighteen patients with laryngeal cancer are free of disease. In contrast, only 1 with pyriform sinus cancer is free of disease; 1 has had a local recurrence and 3 have had metastases. The data suggest that 51 Gy (5,100 rad) are insufficient to sterilize pyriform sinus cancer; higher doses together with adjuvant chemotherapy are needed.", "PMID": 451195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9559", "title": "Complications of combined surgery and neutron radiation therapy in patients with advanced carcinoma of the head and neck.", "content": "A total of 135 patients with advanced squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck were treated with cyclotron-generated fast neutrons. Thirty-eight had major surgery before or after irradiation. Major complications (fistula formation, carotid artery exposure or blowout requiring ligation, or major wound breakdown) occurred in 37%. The complication rates associated with surgery prior to irradiation, planned surgery following irradiation, and salvage surgery following irradiation were 0/12, 4/5, and 10/21, respectively. The complication rate for surgery following neutron irradiation alone was 73%; for surgery following mixed-beam irradiation it was 20%. The age of the patient and the interval between surgery and irradiation had no influence on the complication rate.", "contents": "Complications of combined surgery and neutron radiation therapy in patients with advanced carcinoma of the head and neck. A total of 135 patients with advanced squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck were treated with cyclotron-generated fast neutrons. Thirty-eight had major surgery before or after irradiation. Major complications (fistula formation, carotid artery exposure or blowout requiring ligation, or major wound breakdown) occurred in 37%. The complication rates associated with surgery prior to irradiation, planned surgery following irradiation, and salvage surgery following irradiation were 0/12, 4/5, and 10/21, respectively. The complication rate for surgery following neutron irradiation alone was 73%; for surgery following mixed-beam irradiation it was 20%. The age of the patient and the interval between surgery and irradiation had no influence on the complication rate.", "PMID": 451196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9560", "title": "A practical method for monitoring diagnostic radiation dosage in the newborn nursery.", "content": "Diagnostic radiation exposure in 133 consecutive newborns was studied using a TLD monitoring system. Eighty-eight per cent of dosimeters received less than 1 mSv (100 mrem) total exposure. The mean exposure per chest radiograph was 0.044 +/- 0.023 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.3 mrem). Abdominal surface exposure was 0.053 +/- 0.03 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.044 +/- 0.021 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.1 mrem) for girls. The gonadal exposure, which was calculated from the abdominal exposure data, was 0.053 +/- 0.030 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.026 +/- 0.012 mSv (2.6 +/- 1.2 mrem) for girls. The correction factor for beam attenuation over gonads in girls was 0.58. In general, the radiation received by these infants did not exceed the currently published protection limits.", "contents": "A practical method for monitoring diagnostic radiation dosage in the newborn nursery. Diagnostic radiation exposure in 133 consecutive newborns was studied using a TLD monitoring system. Eighty-eight per cent of dosimeters received less than 1 mSv (100 mrem) total exposure. The mean exposure per chest radiograph was 0.044 +/- 0.023 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.3 mrem). Abdominal surface exposure was 0.053 +/- 0.03 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.044 +/- 0.021 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.1 mrem) for girls. The gonadal exposure, which was calculated from the abdominal exposure data, was 0.053 +/- 0.030 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.026 +/- 0.012 mSv (2.6 +/- 1.2 mrem) for girls. The correction factor for beam attenuation over gonads in girls was 0.58. In general, the radiation received by these infants did not exceed the currently published protection limits.", "PMID": 451197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9561", "title": "A new technique for the calculation of scattered radiation from 60Co-teletherapy beams.", "content": "An alternative to the Clarkson technique for calculating total scattered radiation is presented. Resultant TAR values are compared with those obtained by the Clarkson technique for the same field. The new scatter technique is always more than 2.8 times faster than the Clarkson technique and more than 4 times faster on a large number of fields. The new approach appears to offer a simple and expedient alternative to the more traditional methods for iiregular field dose calculations.", "contents": "A new technique for the calculation of scattered radiation from 60Co-teletherapy beams. An alternative to the Clarkson technique for calculating total scattered radiation is presented. Resultant TAR values are compared with those obtained by the Clarkson technique for the same field. The new scatter technique is always more than 2.8 times faster than the Clarkson technique and more than 4 times faster on a large number of fields. The new approach appears to offer a simple and expedient alternative to the more traditional methods for iiregular field dose calculations.", "PMID": 451198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9562", "title": "The status of film/screen mammography. Results of the BENT study.", "content": "Results of the Breast Exposure: Nationwide Trends (BENT) study are presented. In this study, data were collected from 42 states and several other jurisdictions and the number of facilities found to have unusually high or low exposures during mammography was determined. Surveyors trained by representatives of the Bureau of Radiological Health then worked with these facilities to determine the source of the problem and recommend corrective measures. Contrast was found to be reduced by high \"inherent\" filtration, high kVp, or inappropriate imaging conditions, while resolution was impaired by excessive exposure time, as well as inappropriate imaging conditions. These and other problems are discussed and correlated with image quality.", "contents": "The status of film/screen mammography. Results of the BENT study. Results of the Breast Exposure: Nationwide Trends (BENT) study are presented. In this study, data were collected from 42 states and several other jurisdictions and the number of facilities found to have unusually high or low exposures during mammography was determined. Surveyors trained by representatives of the Bureau of Radiological Health then worked with these facilities to determine the source of the problem and recommend corrective measures. Contrast was found to be reduced by high \"inherent\" filtration, high kVp, or inappropriate imaging conditions, while resolution was impaired by excessive exposure time, as well as inappropriate imaging conditions. These and other problems are discussed and correlated with image quality.", "PMID": 451199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9563", "title": "Computed tomography of the parotid gland during contrast sialography.", "content": "By performing CT scanning during contrast sialography, tumors within the parotid gland can be shown and their configuration in relation to the remaining normal salivary gland and surrounding structures can be appreciated. This permits better evaluation of the relationship of the tumor to the facial nerve, possible extension of tumor beyond the gland, and benign versus malignant growth characteristics", "contents": "Computed tomography of the parotid gland during contrast sialography. By performing CT scanning during contrast sialography, tumors within the parotid gland can be shown and their configuration in relation to the remaining normal salivary gland and surrounding structures can be appreciated. This permits better evaluation of the relationship of the tumor to the facial nerve, possible extension of tumor beyond the gland, and benign versus malignant growth characteristics", "PMID": 451200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9564", "title": "A simple method of spleen imaging with 99mTc-labeled erythrocytes.", "content": "A simple technique of splenic localization with 99mTc-labeled red blood cells is described. A blood sample is obtained 30 minutes after administration of nonradioactive pyrophosphate. Pertechnetate is added to the sample and the blood is incubated for 35 minutes at 49 degrees C. One to two hours after reinjection, selective spleen imaging can be performed.", "contents": "A simple method of spleen imaging with 99mTc-labeled erythrocytes. A simple technique of splenic localization with 99mTc-labeled red blood cells is described. A blood sample is obtained 30 minutes after administration of nonradioactive pyrophosphate. Pertechnetate is added to the sample and the blood is incubated for 35 minutes at 49 degrees C. One to two hours after reinjection, selective spleen imaging can be performed.", "PMID": 451201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9565", "title": "Experience with an alternative method of anesthesia for intracavitary therapy of pelvic carcinoma.", "content": "Placement of intracavitary applicators for treatment of gynecological cancer is usually done in the operating room under general anesthesia. This requires premedication, operating and recovery room time, and is time consuming and expensive. The authors have found that the implant can be performed in a radiation medicine department using intravenous Demerol and Valium. Analgesia has many advantages in comparison to general anesthesia for intracavitary implant therapy.", "contents": "Experience with an alternative method of anesthesia for intracavitary therapy of pelvic carcinoma. Placement of intracavitary applicators for treatment of gynecological cancer is usually done in the operating room under general anesthesia. This requires premedication, operating and recovery room time, and is time consuming and expensive. The authors have found that the implant can be performed in a radiation medicine department using intravenous Demerol and Valium. Analgesia has many advantages in comparison to general anesthesia for intracavitary implant therapy.", "PMID": 451202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9566", "title": "An in vitro comparison of computed tomography, xeroradiography, and radiography in the detection of soft-tissue foreign bodies.", "content": "Computed tomography (CT), xeroradiography, and radiography were compared in vitro to assess the relative value of each in detecting soft-tissue foreign bodies. Results indicate that CT may prove useful.", "contents": "An in vitro comparison of computed tomography, xeroradiography, and radiography in the detection of soft-tissue foreign bodies. Computed tomography (CT), xeroradiography, and radiography were compared in vitro to assess the relative value of each in detecting soft-tissue foreign bodies. Results indicate that CT may prove useful.", "PMID": 451203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9567", "title": "An automated ultrasound transducer beam profiling system.", "content": "An automatic, three-dimensional, ultrasound beam profiling system was developed and incorporated into a radiotherapy planning minicomputer system with few modifications and at minimal cost. This profiler was invaluable in assessing the characteristics of beams emitted by ultrasound transducers.", "contents": "An automated ultrasound transducer beam profiling system. An automatic, three-dimensional, ultrasound beam profiling system was developed and incorporated into a radiotherapy planning minicomputer system with few modifications and at minimal cost. This profiler was invaluable in assessing the characteristics of beams emitted by ultrasound transducers.", "PMID": 451204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9568", "title": "Control of hemorrhage from a common carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula by temporary implantation of a balloon catheter.", "content": "Hemorrhage from an infected carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula was treated by occlusion of the common carotid artery with a 6-French (Swan-Ganz) balloon catheter. After nine months, there was no recurrence of bleeding or neurological sequelae. Temporary balloon occlusion to induce thrombosis of a major artery is an alternative to transcatheter embolization of small particulate material and larger foreign bodies.", "contents": "Control of hemorrhage from a common carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula by temporary implantation of a balloon catheter. Hemorrhage from an infected carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula was treated by occlusion of the common carotid artery with a 6-French (Swan-Ganz) balloon catheter. After nine months, there was no recurrence of bleeding or neurological sequelae. Temporary balloon occlusion to induce thrombosis of a major artery is an alternative to transcatheter embolization of small particulate material and larger foreign bodies.", "PMID": 451206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9569", "title": "Fluoroscopic placement of intestinal tubes.", "content": "The authors have attempted to place fluoroscopically approximately 400 nasointestinal tubes in 7 years. The tube was guided into the jejunum in 39% of patients, into the third portion of the duodenum in 57%, and into the second portion in 76%.", "contents": "Fluoroscopic placement of intestinal tubes. The authors have attempted to place fluoroscopically approximately 400 nasointestinal tubes in 7 years. The tube was guided into the jejunum in 39% of patients, into the third portion of the duodenum in 57%, and into the second portion in 76%.", "PMID": 451207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9570", "title": "Percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a fine-needle puncture set.", "content": "The authors describe an improved method of percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a long, fine, flexible needle combined with a wider and shorter cannula. The needle facilitates atraumatic puncture of the renal collecting system and antegrade pyelography and subsequently serves as a guide over which the nephrostomy cannula is inserted. This technique was successful in 105 of 115 procedures (93 patients) over a period of 15 months and has replaced operative nephrostomy in the author's hospital.", "contents": "Percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a fine-needle puncture set. The authors describe an improved method of percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a long, fine, flexible needle combined with a wider and shorter cannula. The needle facilitates atraumatic puncture of the renal collecting system and antegrade pyelography and subsequently serves as a guide over which the nephrostomy cannula is inserted. This technique was successful in 105 of 115 procedures (93 patients) over a period of 15 months and has replaced operative nephrostomy in the author's hospital.", "PMID": 451209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9571", "title": "Remote television viewing: an ultrasound teaching device.", "content": "Remote viewing of ultrasound scans facilitates assessment of a student's technique while minimizing anxiety for both him and the patient. This method may also be effective for the busy physician who must monitor several procedures at the same time.", "contents": "Remote television viewing: an ultrasound teaching device. Remote viewing of ultrasound scans facilitates assessment of a student's technique while minimizing anxiety for both him and the patient. This method may also be effective for the busy physician who must monitor several procedures at the same time.", "PMID": 451210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9572", "title": "Antitrust law and the practice of radiology.", "content": "Physicians now find it relevant to acquaint themselves with aspects of the law which heretofore were mainly of concern to the business world. One such area is antitrust, which is beginning to affect the practice of radiology. Three phases of the problem are discussed: exclusive privileges contracts; boycotts of nonphysician consultations (i.e., with chiropractors and cultists); and certificate of need requirements for acquisition of highly technical, sophisticated and expensive equipment.", "contents": "Antitrust law and the practice of radiology. Physicians now find it relevant to acquaint themselves with aspects of the law which heretofore were mainly of concern to the business world. One such area is antitrust, which is beginning to affect the practice of radiology. Three phases of the problem are discussed: exclusive privileges contracts; boycotts of nonphysician consultations (i.e., with chiropractors and cultists); and certificate of need requirements for acquisition of highly technical, sophisticated and expensive equipment.", "PMID": 451211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9573", "title": "Torsion of the lung without trauma.", "content": "The unusual occurrence of nontraumatic torsion of the lung following pneumonia is presented. A bronchogram was important in confirming diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics and surgical manipulation. A brief explanation of the torsion is suggested.", "contents": "Torsion of the lung without trauma. The unusual occurrence of nontraumatic torsion of the lung following pneumonia is presented. A bronchogram was important in confirming diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics and surgical manipulation. A brief explanation of the torsion is suggested.", "PMID": 451215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9574", "title": "Venous calcifications associated with cavernous transformation of the portal vein: computed tomographic and angiographic correlations.", "content": "A case of rare venous calcifications involving cavernous transformation of the portal vein and spontaneous splenocaval shunt is presented. Findings were obtained with plain abdominal radiography, computed tomography, and angiography. Inflammation of the portal vein with subsequent occlusion could account for splenomegaly and hypertrophy of the splenic artery and vein with atheromatous calcifications due to turbulence and sclerosis. Angiography is essential prior to surgical intervention in order to select the appropriate shunt.", "contents": "Venous calcifications associated with cavernous transformation of the portal vein: computed tomographic and angiographic correlations. A case of rare venous calcifications involving cavernous transformation of the portal vein and spontaneous splenocaval shunt is presented. Findings were obtained with plain abdominal radiography, computed tomography, and angiography. Inflammation of the portal vein with subsequent occlusion could account for splenomegaly and hypertrophy of the splenic artery and vein with atheromatous calcifications due to turbulence and sclerosis. Angiography is essential prior to surgical intervention in order to select the appropriate shunt.", "PMID": 451216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9575", "title": "Roentgen diagnosis of linear ulcers.", "content": "Linear peptic ulcerations are not uncommon lesions of the stomach and duodenum and can be demonstrated by upper gastrointestinal series. This is facilitated by the double contrast technique, but they may also be appreciated via compression methods. The criteria found helpful to establish the presence of a linear ulcer include: (a) contour deformity; (b) niche projection; (c) fuzzy line; and (d) folds radiating to a line (crater). Routine use of these criteria with the double-contrast method enabled the authors to diagnose 42 linear ulcers.", "contents": "Roentgen diagnosis of linear ulcers. Linear peptic ulcerations are not uncommon lesions of the stomach and duodenum and can be demonstrated by upper gastrointestinal series. This is facilitated by the double contrast technique, but they may also be appreciated via compression methods. The criteria found helpful to establish the presence of a linear ulcer include: (a) contour deformity; (b) niche projection; (c) fuzzy line; and (d) folds radiating to a line (crater). Routine use of these criteria with the double-contrast method enabled the authors to diagnose 42 linear ulcers.", "PMID": 451217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9576", "title": "The radiological spectrum of gastric bypass complications.", "content": "Gastric bypass is now the operation of choice for surgical management of morbid obesity. Prompt and accurate radiological diagnosis in the early postoperative period is critical for proper management of suspected gastrojejunal anastomotic leakage, abscess formation, and acute distension of the excluded stomach and afferent loop. Inadequate weight loss may indicate an increase in the gastric pouch and anastomosis or dehiscence of the staple line. Gastric and jejunal ulceration and anastomotic narrowing also require radiological and endoscopic evaluation.", "contents": "The radiological spectrum of gastric bypass complications. Gastric bypass is now the operation of choice for surgical management of morbid obesity. Prompt and accurate radiological diagnosis in the early postoperative period is critical for proper management of suspected gastrojejunal anastomotic leakage, abscess formation, and acute distension of the excluded stomach and afferent loop. Inadequate weight loss may indicate an increase in the gastric pouch and anastomosis or dehiscence of the staple line. Gastric and jejunal ulceration and anastomotic narrowing also require radiological and endoscopic evaluation.", "PMID": 451218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9577", "title": "Renal vein thrombosis: an underdiagnosed complication of multiple renal abnormalities.", "content": "Thirty-one cases of renal vein thrombosis (RVT) were reviewed retrospectively for clinical laboratory, and radiographic findings. An underlying renal disorder was present in 28 cases, absent in only 3. This supports other evidence that RVT is usually a complication of renal disease rather than a primary event, and that nephrotic syndrome may be due to renal disease rather than RVT. The findings also confirmed the large spectrum of urographic appearances in RVT, and were used as a basis for developing specific and liberal indications for renal venography.", "contents": "Renal vein thrombosis: an underdiagnosed complication of multiple renal abnormalities. Thirty-one cases of renal vein thrombosis (RVT) were reviewed retrospectively for clinical laboratory, and radiographic findings. An underlying renal disorder was present in 28 cases, absent in only 3. This supports other evidence that RVT is usually a complication of renal disease rather than a primary event, and that nephrotic syndrome may be due to renal disease rather than RVT. The findings also confirmed the large spectrum of urographic appearances in RVT, and were used as a basis for developing specific and liberal indications for renal venography.", "PMID": 451219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9578", "title": "Epinephrine enhanced renal angiography in the diagnosis of hamartoma (angiomyolipoma): a reevaluation.", "content": "The vlue of epinephrine enhanced angiography in the preoperative distinction of isolated hamartoma (angiomyolipoma without stigma of tuberous sclerosis) from hypernephroma has been largely discounted in the past. The authors performed this procedure in 6 patients (4 with isolated hamartoma and 2 with tuberous sclerosis complex). Vasoconstriction of the tumor vessels in the isolated group suggested the benign nature of the hypervascular mass in all cases. Vasoconstriction stronger than that of normal parenchymal vessels suggested the diagnosis of isolated renal angiomyolipoma. This form of pharmacoangiography should be part of the routine preoperative workup of all solid renal masses.", "contents": "Epinephrine enhanced renal angiography in the diagnosis of hamartoma (angiomyolipoma): a reevaluation. The vlue of epinephrine enhanced angiography in the preoperative distinction of isolated hamartoma (angiomyolipoma without stigma of tuberous sclerosis) from hypernephroma has been largely discounted in the past. The authors performed this procedure in 6 patients (4 with isolated hamartoma and 2 with tuberous sclerosis complex). Vasoconstriction of the tumor vessels in the isolated group suggested the benign nature of the hypervascular mass in all cases. Vasoconstriction stronger than that of normal parenchymal vessels suggested the diagnosis of isolated renal angiomyolipoma. This form of pharmacoangiography should be part of the routine preoperative workup of all solid renal masses.", "PMID": 451220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9579", "title": "Tubular stasis and ectasia due to intrarenal obstruction.", "content": "Segmental tubular stasis and ectasia may be early signs of intrarenal obstruction. Case reports of 3 patients are presented. In arriving at a diagnosis, the possibility of significant underlying pathology such as calculi and neoplasm should be considered.", "contents": "Tubular stasis and ectasia due to intrarenal obstruction. Segmental tubular stasis and ectasia may be early signs of intrarenal obstruction. Case reports of 3 patients are presented. In arriving at a diagnosis, the possibility of significant underlying pathology such as calculi and neoplasm should be considered.", "PMID": 451221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9580", "title": "Sclerosing stromal tumor of ovary.", "content": "A case of an extremely rare, benign ovarian lesion occurring in young women is presented and its pathology discussed. Radiographically it simulated a large calcified fibroid. The diagnosis should be considered in a young woman with menstrual irregularity and pelvic mass where fibroma and thecoma are unlikely.", "contents": "Sclerosing stromal tumor of ovary. A case of an extremely rare, benign ovarian lesion occurring in young women is presented and its pathology discussed. Radiographically it simulated a large calcified fibroid. The diagnosis should be considered in a young woman with menstrual irregularity and pelvic mass where fibroma and thecoma are unlikely.", "PMID": 451222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9581", "title": "Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome: radiographic observations.", "content": "Susceptibility to recurrent staphylococcal cutaneous and respiratory infections beginning in infancy associated with extreme hyperimmunoglobulinemia E is a recently described primary immunodeficiency syndrome. Other clinical features include depressed cellular immunity and deficient antibody formation. Recurrent pneumonia and cyst formation with variable persistence and expansion characterized the radiographic couse in 11 patients. Five cysts resolved with continuous antistaphylococcal therapy; 2 were resected without recurrence; and 4 persisted after surgery and/or antibiotics (2--8 years). The cysts had dense, necrotic surfaces with fibrous walls, eosinophilic and other inflammatory cell infiltrates, and frequent, persistent, bronchial connections. Sinusitis (9/9) and mastoiditis (3/4) were also observed radiographically.", "contents": "Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome: radiographic observations. Susceptibility to recurrent staphylococcal cutaneous and respiratory infections beginning in infancy associated with extreme hyperimmunoglobulinemia E is a recently described primary immunodeficiency syndrome. Other clinical features include depressed cellular immunity and deficient antibody formation. Recurrent pneumonia and cyst formation with variable persistence and expansion characterized the radiographic couse in 11 patients. Five cysts resolved with continuous antistaphylococcal therapy; 2 were resected without recurrence; and 4 persisted after surgery and/or antibiotics (2--8 years). The cysts had dense, necrotic surfaces with fibrous walls, eosinophilic and other inflammatory cell infiltrates, and frequent, persistent, bronchial connections. Sinusitis (9/9) and mastoiditis (3/4) were also observed radiographically.", "PMID": 451223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9582", "title": "Neonatal meconium blockage in the ileum and proximal colon.", "content": "Three cases of premature infants with obstruction of the ileum and proximal colon in the absence of cystic fibrosis are presented. Meconium inspissation complicated low-grade bowel obstruction in 2 infants. In the third, the bowel was anatomically normal, with the tenacious meconium the apparent primary cause of obstruction. Distinguishing features of this unusual type of blockage and other meconium syndromes are also discussed. This condition may simulate necrotizing enterocolitis, requiring surgery for differentiation. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of low small bowel or colonic obstruction in the premature infant who is several days of age.", "contents": "Neonatal meconium blockage in the ileum and proximal colon. Three cases of premature infants with obstruction of the ileum and proximal colon in the absence of cystic fibrosis are presented. Meconium inspissation complicated low-grade bowel obstruction in 2 infants. In the third, the bowel was anatomically normal, with the tenacious meconium the apparent primary cause of obstruction. Distinguishing features of this unusual type of blockage and other meconium syndromes are also discussed. This condition may simulate necrotizing enterocolitis, requiring surgery for differentiation. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of low small bowel or colonic obstruction in the premature infant who is several days of age.", "PMID": 451224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9583", "title": "Distinctive appearance of the distal phalanges in children with primary hypothyroidism.", "content": "An osseous projection from the midportion of the metaphysis of the distal phalanges of the digits was seen in 79% of untreated children with primary hypothyroidism. There is a significant difference (p less than .0005) in the incidence of this projection between children with primary hypothyroidism and those with idiopathic hypopituitarism or psychosocial dwarfism. The presence of this projection together with delayed skeletal should suggest primary hypothyroidism.", "contents": "Distinctive appearance of the distal phalanges in children with primary hypothyroidism. An osseous projection from the midportion of the metaphysis of the distal phalanges of the digits was seen in 79% of untreated children with primary hypothyroidism. There is a significant difference (p less than .0005) in the incidence of this projection between children with primary hypothyroidism and those with idiopathic hypopituitarism or psychosocial dwarfism. The presence of this projection together with delayed skeletal should suggest primary hypothyroidism.", "PMID": 451225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9584", "title": "Correlation of computed tomographic, angiographic, and neuropathological changes in giant cerebral aneurysms.", "content": "Giant aneurysms involving or adjacent to the circle of Willis exhibit three CT patterns: nonthrombotic, partially thrombotic, and completely thrombotic. Partially thrombotic aneurysms have the most specific pattern, consisting of a \"target\" configuration on the post-contrast scan. Ring calcification of the wall or mural thrombus is frequently observed in partially or completely thrombotic aneurysms. Calcification is not seen in nonthrombotic lesions. Angiographic and neuropathological findings are correlated with the CT findings.", "contents": "Correlation of computed tomographic, angiographic, and neuropathological changes in giant cerebral aneurysms. Giant aneurysms involving or adjacent to the circle of Willis exhibit three CT patterns: nonthrombotic, partially thrombotic, and completely thrombotic. Partially thrombotic aneurysms have the most specific pattern, consisting of a \"target\" configuration on the post-contrast scan. Ring calcification of the wall or mural thrombus is frequently observed in partially or completely thrombotic aneurysms. Calcification is not seen in nonthrombotic lesions. Angiographic and neuropathological findings are correlated with the CT findings.", "PMID": 451226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9585", "title": "Transfemoral cerebral arteriography versus direct precutaneous carotid and brachial arteriography: a comparison of complication rates.", "content": "Cerebral arteriograms in 1,141 consecutive patients, which were done either as direct percutaneous carotid or brachial studies or as transfemoro-cerebral catheter studies, were reviewed. While the overall complication rate for the direct percutaneous studies was higher, the incidence of neurologic complications, both transient and permanent, was higher in the transfemoral group. This higher incidence of neurologic complications may be related to the frequent irrigation of the catheter, which increases the probability of embolism. The incidence of serious complications was lower than in previous studies, perhaps because gravely ill patients are more likely to undergo computed tomographic scanning.", "contents": "Transfemoral cerebral arteriography versus direct precutaneous carotid and brachial arteriography: a comparison of complication rates. Cerebral arteriograms in 1,141 consecutive patients, which were done either as direct percutaneous carotid or brachial studies or as transfemoro-cerebral catheter studies, were reviewed. While the overall complication rate for the direct percutaneous studies was higher, the incidence of neurologic complications, both transient and permanent, was higher in the transfemoral group. This higher incidence of neurologic complications may be related to the frequent irrigation of the catheter, which increases the probability of embolism. The incidence of serious complications was lower than in previous studies, perhaps because gravely ill patients are more likely to undergo computed tomographic scanning.", "PMID": 451227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9586", "title": "Radiological evaluation of paragangliomas of the head and neck.", "content": "Paragangliomas can be differentiated angiographically from most other tumors in the head and neck by their profuse vascularity; specific classification is based on their position and displacement of adjacent vessels. Subtraction usually aids in diagnosis. In most cases, bilateral carotid angiography should be performed, since the ipsilateral carotid artery may have to be ligated and an asymptomatic contralateral tumor may also be found during surgery. Studies of multiple vessels will often show an additional blood supply. Computed tomography can demonstrate the tumor's vascular nature and position and is valuable in follow-up after radiation therapy.", "contents": "Radiological evaluation of paragangliomas of the head and neck. Paragangliomas can be differentiated angiographically from most other tumors in the head and neck by their profuse vascularity; specific classification is based on their position and displacement of adjacent vessels. Subtraction usually aids in diagnosis. In most cases, bilateral carotid angiography should be performed, since the ipsilateral carotid artery may have to be ligated and an asymptomatic contralateral tumor may also be found during surgery. Studies of multiple vessels will often show an additional blood supply. Computed tomography can demonstrate the tumor's vascular nature and position and is valuable in follow-up after radiation therapy.", "PMID": 451228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9587", "title": "A study of the multiple pinhole coded aperture and the application of the minicomputer in image decoding.", "content": "Research has been done on optically reconstructed imaging employing the Multiple Pinhole Coded Aperture (hereafter abreviated as MPCA) in radioisotope tomographic imaging. However, problems remain in the optically reconstructed image method. Therefore, we employed a minicomputer (hereafter abbreviated as CPU) and developed the software for decoding and managing the radioisotope tomographic image. Combining the MPCA and the CPU system, we were able to decode and manage the radioisotope tomographic image. 1) In comparison to the optically decoded MPCA image, various input commands are possibly in the CPU method according to the dialogue between the CPU and the on line typewriter. In addition to this, decoded tomographic images of unrestricted depth are readily attainable. 2) In the CPU method noise elimination and other aspects of image management can be easily performed.", "contents": "A study of the multiple pinhole coded aperture and the application of the minicomputer in image decoding. Research has been done on optically reconstructed imaging employing the Multiple Pinhole Coded Aperture (hereafter abreviated as MPCA) in radioisotope tomographic imaging. However, problems remain in the optically reconstructed image method. Therefore, we employed a minicomputer (hereafter abbreviated as CPU) and developed the software for decoding and managing the radioisotope tomographic image. Combining the MPCA and the CPU system, we were able to decode and manage the radioisotope tomographic image. 1) In comparison to the optically decoded MPCA image, various input commands are possibly in the CPU method according to the dialogue between the CPU and the on line typewriter. In addition to this, decoded tomographic images of unrestricted depth are readily attainable. 2) In the CPU method noise elimination and other aspects of image management can be easily performed.", "PMID": 451274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9588", "title": "Carcinogenic azo dyes--detection of new metabolites of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene in rat bile.", "content": "Metabolism of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene (3'-Me-MAB) in the rat has been investigated by an ion cluster technique. A mixture of non-labeled and deuterium labeled 3'-Me-MAB in cottonseed oil was administered orally with a stomach tube. After administration, the rat bile was collected for 24 hr and enzymically hydrolyzed. This sample was applied to an Amberlite XAD-2 column and the column was washed with water. The metabolites were eluted with methanol and were separated by thin-layer chromatography. The mass spectrum of each metabolite was measured. By means of this technique, the metabolites oxidized at the 3'-methyl group were newly detected in the bile in addition to the N-demethylated, arly hydroxylated, and their azo-reduced metabolites. The effect of the ring methyl group on the carcinogenic action of aminoazo dyes is also discussed.", "contents": "Carcinogenic azo dyes--detection of new metabolites of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene in rat bile. Metabolism of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene (3'-Me-MAB) in the rat has been investigated by an ion cluster technique. A mixture of non-labeled and deuterium labeled 3'-Me-MAB in cottonseed oil was administered orally with a stomach tube. After administration, the rat bile was collected for 24 hr and enzymically hydrolyzed. This sample was applied to an Amberlite XAD-2 column and the column was washed with water. The metabolites were eluted with methanol and were separated by thin-layer chromatography. The mass spectrum of each metabolite was measured. By means of this technique, the metabolites oxidized at the 3'-methyl group were newly detected in the bile in addition to the N-demethylated, arly hydroxylated, and their azo-reduced metabolites. The effect of the ring methyl group on the carcinogenic action of aminoazo dyes is also discussed.", "PMID": 451275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9589", "title": "[Studies of intrarenal distribution by macroautoradiogram and tissue distribution of 99mTc-gluconate (author's transl)].", "content": "1) The experimental studies have demonstrated that 99mTc-gluconate reaches a high concentration in the kidneys within 1-2 hours after injection and its concentration in organs adjacent to the kidney is low. 2) The initial images of serial macroautoradiograms visualized the inner medulla as well as the cortex and outex medulla, whereas the delayed images revealed only the outer cortex and outer stripes in the outer medulla. These findings suggest that this renal agent consists of two components and the delayed component deposits in the convoluted and straight segments of proximal tuble. 3) This renal agent visualizes the calyceal system and excretory pathways in the initial study and the renal morphology in the delayed study. Therefore, using this renal agent, it may be possible to evaluate a variety of renal diseases, including obstructive uropathy, space-occupying lesions, congenital deformities, etc,.", "contents": "[Studies of intrarenal distribution by macroautoradiogram and tissue distribution of 99mTc-gluconate (author's transl)]. 1) The experimental studies have demonstrated that 99mTc-gluconate reaches a high concentration in the kidneys within 1-2 hours after injection and its concentration in organs adjacent to the kidney is low. 2) The initial images of serial macroautoradiograms visualized the inner medulla as well as the cortex and outex medulla, whereas the delayed images revealed only the outer cortex and outer stripes in the outer medulla. These findings suggest that this renal agent consists of two components and the delayed component deposits in the convoluted and straight segments of proximal tuble. 3) This renal agent visualizes the calyceal system and excretory pathways in the initial study and the renal morphology in the delayed study. Therefore, using this renal agent, it may be possible to evaluate a variety of renal diseases, including obstructive uropathy, space-occupying lesions, congenital deformities, etc,.", "PMID": 451276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9590", "title": "Adjuvant chemotherapy: theoretical considerations and model studies.", "content": "Comparison of response of experimental tumors to adjuvant chemotherapy for minimal disease with the response of solid large tumors to similar drug regimens has indicated that for many tumors the small microscopic foci are more responsive. There are, however, a number of model tumors that respond far less to chemotherapy when applied to minimal disease than when applied to large tumors. The response of these tumors to adjuvant treatment shows similarities with the clinically observed response. The data do not support the hypothesis that the success of a drug combination given as adjuvant chemotherapy may be predicted from the success of the same treatment when applied for manifest disease.", "contents": "Adjuvant chemotherapy: theoretical considerations and model studies. Comparison of response of experimental tumors to adjuvant chemotherapy for minimal disease with the response of solid large tumors to similar drug regimens has indicated that for many tumors the small microscopic foci are more responsive. There are, however, a number of model tumors that respond far less to chemotherapy when applied to minimal disease than when applied to large tumors. The response of these tumors to adjuvant treatment shows similarities with the clinically observed response. The data do not support the hypothesis that the success of a drug combination given as adjuvant chemotherapy may be predicted from the success of the same treatment when applied for manifest disease.", "PMID": 451320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9591", "title": "Sialyl transferase activity: a serum enzyme marker in the follow-up of cancer patients.", "content": "Clinical evaluation of serum sialyl transferase as a diagnostic tool in malignant disease has shown that there is a strong correlation between enzyme activity and extent of tumor tissue. Thus, patients with large tumor masses show higher enzyme activity than patients with small tumors or in remission. Furthermore, the surgical removal of tumor tissue results in a decrease of enzyme activity to the normal range. The values remain low until metastases recur; this is connected with a new increase in enzyme activity. It has also been shown that successful chemotherapy corresponding to tumor reduction is reflected in lower values. We are thus led to believe that sialyl transferase is a relevant diagnostic blood parameter in the follow-up of cancer patients.", "contents": "Sialyl transferase activity: a serum enzyme marker in the follow-up of cancer patients. Clinical evaluation of serum sialyl transferase as a diagnostic tool in malignant disease has shown that there is a strong correlation between enzyme activity and extent of tumor tissue. Thus, patients with large tumor masses show higher enzyme activity than patients with small tumors or in remission. Furthermore, the surgical removal of tumor tissue results in a decrease of enzyme activity to the normal range. The values remain low until metastases recur; this is connected with a new increase in enzyme activity. It has also been shown that successful chemotherapy corresponding to tumor reduction is reflected in lower values. We are thus led to believe that sialyl transferase is a relevant diagnostic blood parameter in the follow-up of cancer patients.", "PMID": 451323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9592", "title": "Evidence for natural antibodies (IgG) to polyamines in human sera.", "content": "Human sera contain IgGs that react with latex-putrescine spheres. Identification of the IgGs has been achieved by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their reaction with peroxidase-labeled antihuman gamma-chain-specific antibodies. The inhibition of IgG fixation to latex-putrescine spheres by free spermine and putrescine provides evidence that these IgGs are specific for polyamines.", "contents": "Evidence for natural antibodies (IgG) to polyamines in human sera. Human sera contain IgGs that react with latex-putrescine spheres. Identification of the IgGs has been achieved by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their reaction with peroxidase-labeled antihuman gamma-chain-specific antibodies. The inhibition of IgG fixation to latex-putrescine spheres by free spermine and putrescine provides evidence that these IgGs are specific for polyamines.", "PMID": 451324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9593", "title": "Methadone binding at nonopiate receptor binding sites.", "content": "The binding of 3H-methadone to rabbit brain synaptosomes was studied. Binding was saturable at methadone concentrations below 10(-6)M and unsaturable above 10(-6)M. Except at high 3H-methadone concentrations, only a small fraction of the specific saturable binding of methadone was blocked by levorphanol, naloxone or morphine, suggesting that much of the saturable binding of methadone to rabbit synaptosomes is not binding at the opiate receptor. At low methadone concentrations, stereospecific methadone binding to the opiate receptor is essentially undetectable as determined by displacement with levorphanol and dextrorphan. Experiments with preparations from beef caudate, on the other hand, indicate that a larger percentage of the methadone bound to this preparation is bound to the opiate receptor but that some specific binding is also at other sites.", "contents": "Methadone binding at nonopiate receptor binding sites. The binding of 3H-methadone to rabbit brain synaptosomes was studied. Binding was saturable at methadone concentrations below 10(-6)M and unsaturable above 10(-6)M. Except at high 3H-methadone concentrations, only a small fraction of the specific saturable binding of methadone was blocked by levorphanol, naloxone or morphine, suggesting that much of the saturable binding of methadone to rabbit synaptosomes is not binding at the opiate receptor. At low methadone concentrations, stereospecific methadone binding to the opiate receptor is essentially undetectable as determined by displacement with levorphanol and dextrorphan. Experiments with preparations from beef caudate, on the other hand, indicate that a larger percentage of the methadone bound to this preparation is bound to the opiate receptor but that some specific binding is also at other sites.", "PMID": 451332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9594", "title": "Persistence of phencyclidine (PCP) and metabolites in brain and adipose tissue and implications for long-lasting behavioural effects.", "content": "PCP and its new metabolites persisted for very prolonged periods in rat brain and adipose tissue after a single 25 mgkg-1 intraperitoneal injection and showed accumulation after multiple dosing. The brain to plasma ratios for PCP between 0.5 h to 48 h after injection ranged between 6 to 8.8 and adipose tissue to plasma ratios between 31 to 113. The concentrations of metabolites of PCP in rat brain (ng-eqt/g. tissue) 1, 2 and 3 weeks after a single 25 mgkg-1 i.p. injection of PCP were approximately 390, 230 and 74 respectively and those of PCP 12, 6 and 5 ng/g. respectively. The long sojourn of PCP in adipose tissue and relatively slow egress therefrom explains cumulative effects upon multiple dosing and raises the possibility of mobilisation or release of large amounts of drug from fat stores in situations involving food deprivation, marked weight loss or stress. The persistence of PCP and its metabolites in brain and high degree of binding with melanin, implying a possible localisation in neuromelanin-rich substantia nigra of midbrain and locus coeruleus of pons may help explain the prolonged duration of clinical effects and persistent neurological and cognitive dysfunction several days after PCP administration.", "contents": "Persistence of phencyclidine (PCP) and metabolites in brain and adipose tissue and implications for long-lasting behavioural effects. PCP and its new metabolites persisted for very prolonged periods in rat brain and adipose tissue after a single 25 mgkg-1 intraperitoneal injection and showed accumulation after multiple dosing. The brain to plasma ratios for PCP between 0.5 h to 48 h after injection ranged between 6 to 8.8 and adipose tissue to plasma ratios between 31 to 113. The concentrations of metabolites of PCP in rat brain (ng-eqt/g. tissue) 1, 2 and 3 weeks after a single 25 mgkg-1 i.p. injection of PCP were approximately 390, 230 and 74 respectively and those of PCP 12, 6 and 5 ng/g. respectively. The long sojourn of PCP in adipose tissue and relatively slow egress therefrom explains cumulative effects upon multiple dosing and raises the possibility of mobilisation or release of large amounts of drug from fat stores in situations involving food deprivation, marked weight loss or stress. The persistence of PCP and its metabolites in brain and high degree of binding with melanin, implying a possible localisation in neuromelanin-rich substantia nigra of midbrain and locus coeruleus of pons may help explain the prolonged duration of clinical effects and persistent neurological and cognitive dysfunction several days after PCP administration.", "PMID": 451333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9595", "title": "Light-evoked changes in chick optic lobe GABA system.", "content": "In young chicks the effects of 3 min stroboscope stimulation on GABA and free glutamic acid content and on GAD and GABA-T activity in optic lobes were studied. A significant depletion in GABA and glutamic acid levels was found to occur. In addition a sustained increase in GABA-T and GAD activity was observed. In conclusion present experiments are in favour of an inhibitory role played by GABA in chick optic tectum during stroboscope stimulation.", "contents": "Light-evoked changes in chick optic lobe GABA system. In young chicks the effects of 3 min stroboscope stimulation on GABA and free glutamic acid content and on GAD and GABA-T activity in optic lobes were studied. A significant depletion in GABA and glutamic acid levels was found to occur. In addition a sustained increase in GABA-T and GAD activity was observed. In conclusion present experiments are in favour of an inhibitory role played by GABA in chick optic tectum during stroboscope stimulation.", "PMID": 451334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9596", "title": "Effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on platelet aggregation in rabbits.", "content": "Effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, indimethacin, flufenamic acid, tiaramide and HG-70) on rabbit platelet aggregation were studied using Evans aggoregometer and a modified form of Chandler's loop method. Tiaramide in 10(-4) and 10(-5)M inhibited effectively the aggregation caused by ADP in the optical density method and accelerated the restoration of the time course of disaggregation in the loop method. The other 4 drugs were ineffective. In collagen-induced aggregation all 5 drugs inhibited the aggregation. Among them tiaramide was most potent. Only tiaramide prolonged the time taken to induce snow storm and aggregates in the loop method.", "contents": "Effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on platelet aggregation in rabbits. Effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, indimethacin, flufenamic acid, tiaramide and HG-70) on rabbit platelet aggregation were studied using Evans aggoregometer and a modified form of Chandler's loop method. Tiaramide in 10(-4) and 10(-5)M inhibited effectively the aggregation caused by ADP in the optical density method and accelerated the restoration of the time course of disaggregation in the loop method. The other 4 drugs were ineffective. In collagen-induced aggregation all 5 drugs inhibited the aggregation. Among them tiaramide was most potent. Only tiaramide prolonged the time taken to induce snow storm and aggregates in the loop method.", "PMID": 451335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9597", "title": "Tissue distribution and excretion of 14c-styrene in male and female rats.", "content": "The tissue distribution and excretion of an oral dose of 20 mg/kg of 14C-styrene was studied in both male and female rats at various time intervals after administration. Peak tissue levels were attained at or before 4 hours post administration. The organ with the highest concentration of radioactivity per unit weight was the kidney, followed, in order of decreasing concentration, by the liver and the pancreas. The data suggest a relationship between tissue distribution and kidney and liver toxicity. The high levels also found in the pancreas may bear some relationship to the reported increase in glucose tolerance in workers exposed to styrene. The principal route of excretion was via the kidneys, with 90% of the dose appearing in the urine within 24 hours of administration. Less than 2% of the dose was recovered from the feces.", "contents": "Tissue distribution and excretion of 14c-styrene in male and female rats. The tissue distribution and excretion of an oral dose of 20 mg/kg of 14C-styrene was studied in both male and female rats at various time intervals after administration. Peak tissue levels were attained at or before 4 hours post administration. The organ with the highest concentration of radioactivity per unit weight was the kidney, followed, in order of decreasing concentration, by the liver and the pancreas. The data suggest a relationship between tissue distribution and kidney and liver toxicity. The high levels also found in the pancreas may bear some relationship to the reported increase in glucose tolerance in workers exposed to styrene. The principal route of excretion was via the kidneys, with 90% of the dose appearing in the urine within 24 hours of administration. Less than 2% of the dose was recovered from the feces.", "PMID": 451336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9598", "title": "The effect of indomethacin on cell proliferation induced by chemical and mechanical means in mouse epidermis in vivo.", "content": "Pretreatment of mouse skin in vivo with indomethacin prevents the stimulation of epidermal cell proliferation caused by either removal of the horny layer or by application of phorbol ester TPA. The stimulatory effect of phorbol ester \"TI8\" is only partially inhibited, whereas the drug indomethacin has no effect on the proliferative response to skin massage or the hyperplasiogenic reaction induced by phorbol ester 4-0-methyl-TPA. These results show that depending on the stimulus, epidermal cell proliferation and hyperplasia can proceed either via an indomethacin sensitive or via an indomethacin insensitive pathway, and that indomethacin sensitivity is neither related to the hyperplasiogenic nor the tumor-promoting efficiency of the stimulus. Although TPA and 4-0-methyl-TPA are structurally closely related phorbol esters, they have different mechanisms of mitogenic action.", "contents": "The effect of indomethacin on cell proliferation induced by chemical and mechanical means in mouse epidermis in vivo. Pretreatment of mouse skin in vivo with indomethacin prevents the stimulation of epidermal cell proliferation caused by either removal of the horny layer or by application of phorbol ester TPA. The stimulatory effect of phorbol ester \"TI8\" is only partially inhibited, whereas the drug indomethacin has no effect on the proliferative response to skin massage or the hyperplasiogenic reaction induced by phorbol ester 4-0-methyl-TPA. These results show that depending on the stimulus, epidermal cell proliferation and hyperplasia can proceed either via an indomethacin sensitive or via an indomethacin insensitive pathway, and that indomethacin sensitivity is neither related to the hyperplasiogenic nor the tumor-promoting efficiency of the stimulus. Although TPA and 4-0-methyl-TPA are structurally closely related phorbol esters, they have different mechanisms of mitogenic action.", "PMID": 451337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9599", "title": "The metabolically mediated DNA damage and subsequent DNA repair by 4-chlorobiphenyl in Chinese hamster ovary cells.", "content": "The metabolism of [3H]-4-chlorobiphenyl (CB) by Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures resulted in the formation of lipophilic hydroxylated metabolites, trichloroacetic acid soluble conjugates and covalent macromolecular adducts. The major lipophilic metabolite was chromatographically similar to 4'-chloro-4-biphenylol. The intracellular macromolecules were fractionated into protein, RNA and DNA. Although protein was the major target of covalent interaction with [3H]-CB and contributes 85% of the macromolecular binding, the specific binding of [3H]-CB to DNA was 3.5 and 1.4 times higher than that observed for protein and RNA respectively. Incubation of the CHO cells with 10 mM CB, [3H]-thymidine and 10 mM hydroxyurea for 2.5 hr resulted in a 1.6 fold increase in unscheduled DNA synthesis. The data demonstrated that the readily metabolized CB congener not only reacts with mammalian cell macromolecules, including DNA, but the DNA damage can also be demonstrated by its subsequent repair.", "contents": "The metabolically mediated DNA damage and subsequent DNA repair by 4-chlorobiphenyl in Chinese hamster ovary cells. The metabolism of [3H]-4-chlorobiphenyl (CB) by Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures resulted in the formation of lipophilic hydroxylated metabolites, trichloroacetic acid soluble conjugates and covalent macromolecular adducts. The major lipophilic metabolite was chromatographically similar to 4'-chloro-4-biphenylol. The intracellular macromolecules were fractionated into protein, RNA and DNA. Although protein was the major target of covalent interaction with [3H]-CB and contributes 85% of the macromolecular binding, the specific binding of [3H]-CB to DNA was 3.5 and 1.4 times higher than that observed for protein and RNA respectively. Incubation of the CHO cells with 10 mM CB, [3H]-thymidine and 10 mM hydroxyurea for 2.5 hr resulted in a 1.6 fold increase in unscheduled DNA synthesis. The data demonstrated that the readily metabolized CB congener not only reacts with mammalian cell macromolecules, including DNA, but the DNA damage can also be demonstrated by its subsequent repair.", "PMID": 451338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9600", "title": "The effect of drug schedule on mouse neuroblastoma treated with cyclophosphamide.", "content": "The potential difference in survival due to scheduling of cyclophosphamide treatment was examined in A/J mice inoculated with neuroblastoma C1-1300 cells. Treatment was started on the third day post tumor implantation. There were four groups of animals each consisting of 30 mice: Group A, a control group, was injected with 0.3 cc of normal saline for a week. Group B was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day every other day for five doses. This cycle was repeated in the same fashion starting on day 17. Group C was injected with cyclophosphamide 250 mg/kg on day 3 and this was repeated on day 17. Group D was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days. This cycle was repeated on day 17-21. The median survival for group B was 26.2 days (the same as the control group), for group C 47.7 days (87% increased survival) and for group D 63.2 days (143% increased survival with 30% possible cures). Twenty-three percent of the mice in group B died of pneumonia and another 23% had minor evidence of lung infection. Only three mice in this group had tumor at the time of death. The study suggests that the response of murine neuroblastoma as well as the development of pneumonia in A/J mice treated with cyclophosphamide might be schedule dependent.", "contents": "The effect of drug schedule on mouse neuroblastoma treated with cyclophosphamide. The potential difference in survival due to scheduling of cyclophosphamide treatment was examined in A/J mice inoculated with neuroblastoma C1-1300 cells. Treatment was started on the third day post tumor implantation. There were four groups of animals each consisting of 30 mice: Group A, a control group, was injected with 0.3 cc of normal saline for a week. Group B was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day every other day for five doses. This cycle was repeated in the same fashion starting on day 17. Group C was injected with cyclophosphamide 250 mg/kg on day 3 and this was repeated on day 17. Group D was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days. This cycle was repeated on day 17-21. The median survival for group B was 26.2 days (the same as the control group), for group C 47.7 days (87% increased survival) and for group D 63.2 days (143% increased survival with 30% possible cures). Twenty-three percent of the mice in group B died of pneumonia and another 23% had minor evidence of lung infection. Only three mice in this group had tumor at the time of death. The study suggests that the response of murine neuroblastoma as well as the development of pneumonia in A/J mice treated with cyclophosphamide might be schedule dependent.", "PMID": 451339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9601", "title": "Relationship of the reductive metabolism of indicine N-oxide to its antitumor activity.", "content": "Several pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been demonstrated to have antitumor activity in experimental tumor systems. In general the free base form of the alkaloid exhibits greater biological activity than the corresponding N-oxide and the N-oxide must be metabolized to the base for the subsequent formation of alkylating intermediates. Indicine N-oxide is an exception in that it is a more active antitumor agent than its free base indicine. Studies of the antitumor activity and metabolism of indicine N-oxide, and the closely related compound, heliotrine N-oxide, given orally and intraperitoneally to mice bearing P-388 leukemia, suggest that conversion of indicine N-oxide to indicine is not essential for its antitumor activity.", "contents": "Relationship of the reductive metabolism of indicine N-oxide to its antitumor activity. Several pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been demonstrated to have antitumor activity in experimental tumor systems. In general the free base form of the alkaloid exhibits greater biological activity than the corresponding N-oxide and the N-oxide must be metabolized to the base for the subsequent formation of alkylating intermediates. Indicine N-oxide is an exception in that it is a more active antitumor agent than its free base indicine. Studies of the antitumor activity and metabolism of indicine N-oxide, and the closely related compound, heliotrine N-oxide, given orally and intraperitoneally to mice bearing P-388 leukemia, suggest that conversion of indicine N-oxide to indicine is not essential for its antitumor activity.", "PMID": 451340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9602", "title": "The effect of age in culture on the uptake and metabolism of methotrexate by primary cultures of hepatocytes.", "content": "Primary monolayer cultures of rat hepatocytes show an initial transient azide-sensitive capacity to concentrate methotrexate several-fold from the medium. However, after 48 h in culture they lose the azide-sensitive ability to accumulate methotrexate. The uptake of (+) 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and folate is not altered greatly with time in culture and is unaffected by azide. Once inside the cell, methotrexate is converted predominantly to di- and triglutamate derivatives. After a short exposure to methotrexate (up to 4 h) most of the intracellular methotrexate is unaltered, but by 24 h nearly 80% is present as polyglutamates. Unlike the capacity of the cells to accumulate methotrexate, the ability of the cells to form polyglutamates does not appear to diminish with the age of the culture.", "contents": "The effect of age in culture on the uptake and metabolism of methotrexate by primary cultures of hepatocytes. Primary monolayer cultures of rat hepatocytes show an initial transient azide-sensitive capacity to concentrate methotrexate several-fold from the medium. However, after 48 h in culture they lose the azide-sensitive ability to accumulate methotrexate. The uptake of (+) 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and folate is not altered greatly with time in culture and is unaffected by azide. Once inside the cell, methotrexate is converted predominantly to di- and triglutamate derivatives. After a short exposure to methotrexate (up to 4 h) most of the intracellular methotrexate is unaltered, but by 24 h nearly 80% is present as polyglutamates. Unlike the capacity of the cells to accumulate methotrexate, the ability of the cells to form polyglutamates does not appear to diminish with the age of the culture.", "PMID": 451341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9603", "title": "A new radioassay for serum vitamin B12 determination using chicken serum as a binder and an anion exchange resin column separation.", "content": "We present a new method for the determination of serum vitamin B12 concentration by competitive protein binding using 57Co labeled vitamin B12, chicken serum (CS) as the binding protein, and a sephadex column separation. We placed a mixture of extracted sample, labeled B12, and CS binder above an A-25 sephadex column, and after 1 hour incubation at room temperature drained the column and washed it twice with buffer. We counted the free fraction remaining in each column. Within run C.V.'s for low and high values in the normal range were 10.6% and 6.03%. The between run C.V.'s were 7.7% and 7.5% respectively. The values obtained for 95 clinical specimens correlated well with those for a reference method.", "contents": "A new radioassay for serum vitamin B12 determination using chicken serum as a binder and an anion exchange resin column separation. We present a new method for the determination of serum vitamin B12 concentration by competitive protein binding using 57Co labeled vitamin B12, chicken serum (CS) as the binding protein, and a sephadex column separation. We placed a mixture of extracted sample, labeled B12, and CS binder above an A-25 sephadex column, and after 1 hour incubation at room temperature drained the column and washed it twice with buffer. We counted the free fraction remaining in each column. Within run C.V.'s for low and high values in the normal range were 10.6% and 6.03%. The between run C.V.'s were 7.7% and 7.5% respectively. The values obtained for 95 clinical specimens correlated well with those for a reference method.", "PMID": 451342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9604", "title": "Study of the combined and separate administration of doxorubicin and coenzyme Q10 on mouse cardiac enzymes.", "content": "Administration of an acutely toxic dose of doxorubicin to mice did not increase, but rather decreased the percent deficiency of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as calculated according to the coenzyme-apoenzyme system principle. The date indicate that doxorubicin may occupy CoQ10-empty receptors on the apoenzyme, with or without some destruction of enzyme-menbrane structure close to the receptor. Data from mice receiving both CoQ10 and doxorubicin indicated that CoQ10 may protect against doxorubicin. CoQ10 alone corrected the pre-existing deficiency found in control mice.", "contents": "Study of the combined and separate administration of doxorubicin and coenzyme Q10 on mouse cardiac enzymes. Administration of an acutely toxic dose of doxorubicin to mice did not increase, but rather decreased the percent deficiency of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as calculated according to the coenzyme-apoenzyme system principle. The date indicate that doxorubicin may occupy CoQ10-empty receptors on the apoenzyme, with or without some destruction of enzyme-menbrane structure close to the receptor. Data from mice receiving both CoQ10 and doxorubicin indicated that CoQ10 may protect against doxorubicin. CoQ10 alone corrected the pre-existing deficiency found in control mice.", "PMID": 451343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9605", "title": "Influx of glycyl-proline and free amino acids across intestinal brush border of phenobarbital-treated rats.", "content": "In a previous study the authors have shown that treatment with phenobarbital in the rat is followed by a generalized increase of amino acid concentration in the plasma. In order to better clarify this phenomenon, the effect of phenobarbital on intestinal protein absorption was now studied by measuring the influxes of Glycyl-L-Proline, L-Phenylalanine, L-Lysine and L-Glutamic acid across the brush border of jejunum and ileum in rats treated with phenobarbital for two or four days. No significant changes of these influxes were observed in the treated animals as compared to the controls, hence suggesting that the effect of phenobarbital on plasma levels of free amino acids is not mediated by an effect on intestinal absorption. The rate of Glycyl-Proline influx as compared to those of amino acid influxes suggests the occurrence of a carrier-mediated transport process for this dipeptide in the rat intestine as previously shown in the rabbit.", "contents": "Influx of glycyl-proline and free amino acids across intestinal brush border of phenobarbital-treated rats. In a previous study the authors have shown that treatment with phenobarbital in the rat is followed by a generalized increase of amino acid concentration in the plasma. In order to better clarify this phenomenon, the effect of phenobarbital on intestinal protein absorption was now studied by measuring the influxes of Glycyl-L-Proline, L-Phenylalanine, L-Lysine and L-Glutamic acid across the brush border of jejunum and ileum in rats treated with phenobarbital for two or four days. No significant changes of these influxes were observed in the treated animals as compared to the controls, hence suggesting that the effect of phenobarbital on plasma levels of free amino acids is not mediated by an effect on intestinal absorption. The rate of Glycyl-Proline influx as compared to those of amino acid influxes suggests the occurrence of a carrier-mediated transport process for this dipeptide in the rat intestine as previously shown in the rabbit.", "PMID": 451344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9606", "title": "The relationship of cellular respiration inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids with van der Waals volume.", "content": "The cellular respiratory inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids recently designed by Shah and Coats is found by regression analysis to be significantly correlated with van der Waals volume (V(w)). A parabolic correlation is obtained in case of ascites cell inhibition and a linear correlation in case of malate dehydrogenase inhibition. The correlation of both types of inhibition with a single parameter, V(w), makes the process of substituent selection in designing more potent inhibitors of whole respiratory cell much simpler.", "contents": "The relationship of cellular respiration inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids with van der Waals volume. The cellular respiratory inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids recently designed by Shah and Coats is found by regression analysis to be significantly correlated with van der Waals volume (V(w)). A parabolic correlation is obtained in case of ascites cell inhibition and a linear correlation in case of malate dehydrogenase inhibition. The correlation of both types of inhibition with a single parameter, V(w), makes the process of substituent selection in designing more potent inhibitors of whole respiratory cell much simpler.", "PMID": 451345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9607", "title": "Sugar derivatives and liver mitochondria. II. Effect of beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose.", "content": "beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose stimulated succinate oxidation in intact liver mitochondria (100%), in broken mitochondria (50%) and in EP1 particles (20%), no effect was observed on purified succinic dehydrogenase. This compound enhances the oxidation of succinate in the presence of Ca2+ and ATP; no effect appeared in the absence of calcium. beta penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose prevents the reversal of Ca2+-induced swelling by EGTA. It seems that this sugar derivative would act, in some way, in the efflux of calcium from mitochondria leading to an accumulation of this bivalent ion in the mitochondria.", "contents": "Sugar derivatives and liver mitochondria. II. Effect of beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose. beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose stimulated succinate oxidation in intact liver mitochondria (100%), in broken mitochondria (50%) and in EP1 particles (20%), no effect was observed on purified succinic dehydrogenase. This compound enhances the oxidation of succinate in the presence of Ca2+ and ATP; no effect appeared in the absence of calcium. beta penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose prevents the reversal of Ca2+-induced swelling by EGTA. It seems that this sugar derivative would act, in some way, in the efflux of calcium from mitochondria leading to an accumulation of this bivalent ion in the mitochondria.", "PMID": 451346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9608", "title": "The effect of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and blood pressure in rats.", "content": "Atropine sulfate causes bradycardia in doses which are greater than the usual anticholinergic doses producing tachycardia (Shucard and Andrew, 1977, Res. Comm. Chem. Path. Pharmacol. 16, 401-410). The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and systemic blood pressure in rats. Six groups of urethane anesthetized, male, Sprague Dawley rats (200-450 g) were injected with varying doses of atropine via the jugular vein. Groups I through IV received 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 40mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, respectively. Group V was bilaterally vagotomized before the injection of 80 mg/kg of atropine. Animals in Group VI were bilaterally vagotomized and pretreated with propranolol-HCl before injection of 40 mg/kg of atropine. Atropine caused a significant (p less than 0.005) dose-dependent reduction in both heart rate and blood pressure. The negative chronotropic property of atropine shown in these experiments is in agreement with recent in vitro and in vitro studies. The cause of bradycardia in these doses appears to be an intrinsic property of atropine rather than being centrally mediated. Possible direct action by atropine on peripheral vascular resistance is discussed.", "contents": "The effect of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and blood pressure in rats. Atropine sulfate causes bradycardia in doses which are greater than the usual anticholinergic doses producing tachycardia (Shucard and Andrew, 1977, Res. Comm. Chem. Path. Pharmacol. 16, 401-410). The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and systemic blood pressure in rats. Six groups of urethane anesthetized, male, Sprague Dawley rats (200-450 g) were injected with varying doses of atropine via the jugular vein. Groups I through IV received 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 40mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, respectively. Group V was bilaterally vagotomized before the injection of 80 mg/kg of atropine. Animals in Group VI were bilaterally vagotomized and pretreated with propranolol-HCl before injection of 40 mg/kg of atropine. Atropine caused a significant (p less than 0.005) dose-dependent reduction in both heart rate and blood pressure. The negative chronotropic property of atropine shown in these experiments is in agreement with recent in vitro and in vitro studies. The cause of bradycardia in these doses appears to be an intrinsic property of atropine rather than being centrally mediated. Possible direct action by atropine on peripheral vascular resistance is discussed.", "PMID": 451347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9609", "title": "Iproniazid-induced biochemical changes in mice.", "content": "Single doses of iproniazid to Swiss-Webster mice caused a prolonged hypoglycemic reaction and transient biphasic changes in liver triglycerides. In contrast, the same dose of iproniazid in mice on a pyridoxine deficient diet elevated plasma glucose and FFA and liver FFA and TGL. Administration of the same dose of ipioniazid for 30 days elevated liver TGL in Swiss-Webster, C57/B1, DBA, and AKR mice; this effect was reversed in all but the AKR mice when the animals were maintained on a pyrodoxine-deficient diet.", "contents": "Iproniazid-induced biochemical changes in mice. Single doses of iproniazid to Swiss-Webster mice caused a prolonged hypoglycemic reaction and transient biphasic changes in liver triglycerides. In contrast, the same dose of iproniazid in mice on a pyridoxine deficient diet elevated plasma glucose and FFA and liver FFA and TGL. Administration of the same dose of ipioniazid for 30 days elevated liver TGL in Swiss-Webster, C57/B1, DBA, and AKR mice; this effect was reversed in all but the AKR mice when the animals were maintained on a pyrodoxine-deficient diet.", "PMID": 451348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9610", "title": "Interference by endogenous amines in the determination of monoamine oxidase activity of human platelet samples.", "content": "Lower monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels are reported in the blood platelets from chronic schizophrenics than in normal controls. Attempts to replicate these findings in other laboratories have been unsuccessful thus contradicting the suggestion that low MAO activity is a genetically determined biological factor in schizophrenia. We now present evidence to show that the endogenous amines present in platelets (serotonin) react non-enzymatically with the highly reactive aldehyde produced by MAO and thereby reduce the extractable radioactivity in the radiometric assays for MAO. Various biogenic amines such as serotonin, dopamine and m-tyramine were tested for their interference by adding them in nanomolar concentrations to incubation mixtures containing platelet samples or partially purified rat liver MAO and (14C-)p-tyramine or phenethylamine as substrates. The amines were added before, during and after incubation. In all three cases the apparent inhibition by each amine was the same, the percent inhibition depending on the structure of the amine.", "contents": "Interference by endogenous amines in the determination of monoamine oxidase activity of human platelet samples. Lower monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels are reported in the blood platelets from chronic schizophrenics than in normal controls. Attempts to replicate these findings in other laboratories have been unsuccessful thus contradicting the suggestion that low MAO activity is a genetically determined biological factor in schizophrenia. We now present evidence to show that the endogenous amines present in platelets (serotonin) react non-enzymatically with the highly reactive aldehyde produced by MAO and thereby reduce the extractable radioactivity in the radiometric assays for MAO. Various biogenic amines such as serotonin, dopamine and m-tyramine were tested for their interference by adding them in nanomolar concentrations to incubation mixtures containing platelet samples or partially purified rat liver MAO and (14C-)p-tyramine or phenethylamine as substrates. The amines were added before, during and after incubation. In all three cases the apparent inhibition by each amine was the same, the percent inhibition depending on the structure of the amine.", "PMID": 451349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9611", "title": "Effect of indomethacin and meclofenamate on canine mesenteric and celiac blood flow.", "content": "Two nonsteriodal antiinflammatory agents, indomethacin and meclofenamate, were found to produce a marked decrease in mesenteric blood flow, an increase in blood presure and no significant change in celiac blood flow. The initial effect of indomethacin on mesenteric blood flow differed from that seen with meclofenamate. Whereas meclofenamate induced a fall in mesenteric blood flow that was gradual in onset, indomethacin induced a marked vasoconstriction of the mesenteric bed that was immediate in onset and of short duration, which was followed by a decrease of slower onset similar to that seen with meclofenamate.", "contents": "Effect of indomethacin and meclofenamate on canine mesenteric and celiac blood flow. Two nonsteriodal antiinflammatory agents, indomethacin and meclofenamate, were found to produce a marked decrease in mesenteric blood flow, an increase in blood presure and no significant change in celiac blood flow. The initial effect of indomethacin on mesenteric blood flow differed from that seen with meclofenamate. Whereas meclofenamate induced a fall in mesenteric blood flow that was gradual in onset, indomethacin induced a marked vasoconstriction of the mesenteric bed that was immediate in onset and of short duration, which was followed by a decrease of slower onset similar to that seen with meclofenamate.", "PMID": 451350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9612", "title": "Lack of effect of cadmium on the biological response to and metabolism of ethanol in vivo.", "content": "Following the administration of cadmium (2 mg/kg) neither the duration of hypnosis nor the in vivo rate of tissue decline of ethanol was altered. These results differ from the cadmium-induced alterations in biological response and metabolism of other centrally acting drugs.", "contents": "Lack of effect of cadmium on the biological response to and metabolism of ethanol in vivo. Following the administration of cadmium (2 mg/kg) neither the duration of hypnosis nor the in vivo rate of tissue decline of ethanol was altered. These results differ from the cadmium-induced alterations in biological response and metabolism of other centrally acting drugs.", "PMID": 451352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9613", "title": "Effects of ciguatoxin and maitotoxin on the isolated guinea pig atria.", "content": "The effects of ciguatoxin (CT) and maitotoxin (MT) were studied on the isolated atria of the guinea pig. Application of CT evoked a prolonged positive inotropic effect on the electrically-driven atria and both inotropic and chronotropic effects on the spontaneously-beating right atria. The response to MT in contrast was biphasic. At low concentration (10(-8) Gm per ml) MT enhanced the atrial contractility, while at higher concentrations (5 x 10(-8) Gm per ml) it depressed the atria and frequently to a standstill. The results indicate that CT and MT have a direct action on the contractile mechanism of the heart and their effects are readily distinguishable.", "contents": "Effects of ciguatoxin and maitotoxin on the isolated guinea pig atria. The effects of ciguatoxin (CT) and maitotoxin (MT) were studied on the isolated atria of the guinea pig. Application of CT evoked a prolonged positive inotropic effect on the electrically-driven atria and both inotropic and chronotropic effects on the spontaneously-beating right atria. The response to MT in contrast was biphasic. At low concentration (10(-8) Gm per ml) MT enhanced the atrial contractility, while at higher concentrations (5 x 10(-8) Gm per ml) it depressed the atria and frequently to a standstill. The results indicate that CT and MT have a direct action on the contractile mechanism of the heart and their effects are readily distinguishable.", "PMID": 451353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9614", "title": "Effect of halogenated benzenes on acetanilide esterase, acetanilide hydroxylase and procaine esterase in rats.", "content": "1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene, hexachlorobenzene, 1,2,4-tribromobenzene, 1,3,5-tribromobenzene and hexabromobenzene were compared for their abilities to induce acetanilide esterase, acentailide hydroxylase and procaine esterase. Except for hexabromobenzene all induced acetanilide esterase whereas the hydroxylation of acetanilide was seen only with the fully halogenated benzenes and with 1,3,5-tribromobenzene. Hepatic procaine esterase activity was increased by the three chlorinated benzenes and 1,2,4-tribromobenzene.", "contents": "Effect of halogenated benzenes on acetanilide esterase, acetanilide hydroxylase and procaine esterase in rats. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene, hexachlorobenzene, 1,2,4-tribromobenzene, 1,3,5-tribromobenzene and hexabromobenzene were compared for their abilities to induce acetanilide esterase, acentailide hydroxylase and procaine esterase. Except for hexabromobenzene all induced acetanilide esterase whereas the hydroxylation of acetanilide was seen only with the fully halogenated benzenes and with 1,3,5-tribromobenzene. Hepatic procaine esterase activity was increased by the three chlorinated benzenes and 1,2,4-tribromobenzene.", "PMID": 451354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9615", "title": "Suitability of the rabbit for hypothyroid studies.", "content": "New Zealand white rabbits were thyroidectomized, then examined for hypothyroidism after 6 to 8 weeks. Serum thyroxine levels were reduced 77% after surgery. This occurred without apparent calcium homeostatic imbalances even though no calcium supplementation was added to the food or water. The advantages of using the animal and procedure are discussed.", "contents": "Suitability of the rabbit for hypothyroid studies. New Zealand white rabbits were thyroidectomized, then examined for hypothyroidism after 6 to 8 weeks. Serum thyroxine levels were reduced 77% after surgery. This occurred without apparent calcium homeostatic imbalances even though no calcium supplementation was added to the food or water. The advantages of using the animal and procedure are discussed.", "PMID": 451355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9616", "title": "Protein binding properties of prazosin.", "content": "The serum protein binding proerties of prazosin were determined by the equilibrium dialysis technique, using radiolabeled drug of high specific activity. At concentrations typically found in human therapy, prazosin is bound to serum proteins to the extent of approximately 92 percent. This value is not altered in the presence of several other drugs frequently diminished in conjunction with prazosin.", "contents": "Protein binding properties of prazosin. The serum protein binding proerties of prazosin were determined by the equilibrium dialysis technique, using radiolabeled drug of high specific activity. At concentrations typically found in human therapy, prazosin is bound to serum proteins to the extent of approximately 92 percent. This value is not altered in the presence of several other drugs frequently diminished in conjunction with prazosin.", "PMID": 451356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9617", "title": "Physiological disposition and subcellular localization of 14C-fenclorac in the rat.", "content": "The physiologic disposition and subcellular tissue localization of 14C-fenclorac was studied in rats receiving single and multiple oral doses of the drug. The drug was primarily excreted via renal and fecal routes. The 24-hour urinary and fecal elimination rates were 41 and 17% respectively, of the administered dose. The daily elimination rates of drug/drug metabolites were not altered when the treatment period was extended to seven days, suggesting that the processes for the renal and fecal clearance of drug were not affected by this treatment schedule. Studies on the distribution of 14C-fenclorac in slected tissues revealed that hepatic, renal and splenic tissue to plasma ratio of the label twenty-four hours after a single dose was 1.53, 3.88 and 0.11, respectively. Similar results were observed in rats receiving multiple doses of 14C-fenclorac. The 14C-label was distributed throughout the subcellular organelles with the highest concentration in the cytosol and lower levels in the mitochondria and microsomes. Furthermore, these experiments demonstrated that both metabolic (hepatic) and excretory (kidney) organs do not accumulate fenclorac in animals receiving the drug up to seven days.", "contents": "Physiological disposition and subcellular localization of 14C-fenclorac in the rat. The physiologic disposition and subcellular tissue localization of 14C-fenclorac was studied in rats receiving single and multiple oral doses of the drug. The drug was primarily excreted via renal and fecal routes. The 24-hour urinary and fecal elimination rates were 41 and 17% respectively, of the administered dose. The daily elimination rates of drug/drug metabolites were not altered when the treatment period was extended to seven days, suggesting that the processes for the renal and fecal clearance of drug were not affected by this treatment schedule. Studies on the distribution of 14C-fenclorac in slected tissues revealed that hepatic, renal and splenic tissue to plasma ratio of the label twenty-four hours after a single dose was 1.53, 3.88 and 0.11, respectively. Similar results were observed in rats receiving multiple doses of 14C-fenclorac. The 14C-label was distributed throughout the subcellular organelles with the highest concentration in the cytosol and lower levels in the mitochondria and microsomes. Furthermore, these experiments demonstrated that both metabolic (hepatic) and excretory (kidney) organs do not accumulate fenclorac in animals receiving the drug up to seven days.", "PMID": 451357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9618", "title": "Acetaminophen-induced glutathione depletion in diabetic rats.", "content": "The time course of acetaminophen-induced hepatic glutathione depletion and recovery in control and streptozotocin-diabetic female rats was investigated. Initial hepatic glutathione levels were significantly higher in control animals. After a 1 g/kg intraperitoneal dose of acetaminophen, maximum depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH) occurred within 2 h in diabetics and began to increase thereafter, while maximum GSH depletion occurred at approx. 4 h in controls and did not begin to return to normal until after 12 h. The time course for changes in hepatic oxidized glutathione (GSSG) after acetaminophen administration followed that for GSH in both control and diabetic rats. Diurnal variations in hepatic glutathione levels do occur, but these variations can not explain the changes which occur following acetaminophen administration or the differences observed between control and diabetic rats. Diabetic rats are more susceptible to the glutathione depleting effects of high-dose acetaminophen, suggesting that the diabetic may be less able to detoxify drugs and foreign chemicals.", "contents": "Acetaminophen-induced glutathione depletion in diabetic rats. The time course of acetaminophen-induced hepatic glutathione depletion and recovery in control and streptozotocin-diabetic female rats was investigated. Initial hepatic glutathione levels were significantly higher in control animals. After a 1 g/kg intraperitoneal dose of acetaminophen, maximum depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH) occurred within 2 h in diabetics and began to increase thereafter, while maximum GSH depletion occurred at approx. 4 h in controls and did not begin to return to normal until after 12 h. The time course for changes in hepatic oxidized glutathione (GSSG) after acetaminophen administration followed that for GSH in both control and diabetic rats. Diurnal variations in hepatic glutathione levels do occur, but these variations can not explain the changes which occur following acetaminophen administration or the differences observed between control and diabetic rats. Diabetic rats are more susceptible to the glutathione depleting effects of high-dose acetaminophen, suggesting that the diabetic may be less able to detoxify drugs and foreign chemicals.", "PMID": 451358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9619", "title": "The effects of ticrynafen in the rat.", "content": "The effects of ticrynafen, a uricosuric diuretic, were examined utilizing free-flow micropuncture and clearance techniques in the rat. The intravenous infusion of ticrynafen (50 mg/kg body wt/hr) had no effect on glomerular filtration rate, but resulted in significant increases in urine flow from 4.4 +/- 0.7 microliter/min/g kidney wt to 19.2 +/- 2.6 (p less than 0.001); in urinary sodium excretion from 0.14 +/- 0.07 micronEq/min/g kidney wt to 2.35 +/- 0.52 (p less than 0.01); and in urinary urate excretion from 2.8 +/- 0.2 microgram/min/g kidney wt to 4.0 +/- 0.2 (p less than 0.005). There was no change in urinary phosphate excretion. The end-proximal TF/Pinulin ratio was 2.66 +/- 0.18 in control and 2.67 +/- 0.16 in experimental periods (p=NS). In awake animals, ticrynafen administration resulted in a decrease in CH2O from 6.47 +/- 0.12% to 3.50 +/- 0.69 (p less than 0.05), but no change in TCH2O. These studies demonstrate that ticrynafen is a uricosuric and diuretic agent in the rat. The natriuresis appears to derive from an inhibitory action of this agent in the cortical diluting segment of the nephron. In comparison to a related uricosuric diuretic, MK-196, ticrynafen is a less potent agent with respect to both its uricosuric and diuretic properties in the rat.", "contents": "The effects of ticrynafen in the rat. The effects of ticrynafen, a uricosuric diuretic, were examined utilizing free-flow micropuncture and clearance techniques in the rat. The intravenous infusion of ticrynafen (50 mg/kg body wt/hr) had no effect on glomerular filtration rate, but resulted in significant increases in urine flow from 4.4 +/- 0.7 microliter/min/g kidney wt to 19.2 +/- 2.6 (p less than 0.001); in urinary sodium excretion from 0.14 +/- 0.07 micronEq/min/g kidney wt to 2.35 +/- 0.52 (p less than 0.01); and in urinary urate excretion from 2.8 +/- 0.2 microgram/min/g kidney wt to 4.0 +/- 0.2 (p less than 0.005). There was no change in urinary phosphate excretion. The end-proximal TF/Pinulin ratio was 2.66 +/- 0.18 in control and 2.67 +/- 0.16 in experimental periods (p=NS). In awake animals, ticrynafen administration resulted in a decrease in CH2O from 6.47 +/- 0.12% to 3.50 +/- 0.69 (p less than 0.05), but no change in TCH2O. These studies demonstrate that ticrynafen is a uricosuric and diuretic agent in the rat. The natriuresis appears to derive from an inhibitory action of this agent in the cortical diluting segment of the nephron. In comparison to a related uricosuric diuretic, MK-196, ticrynafen is a less potent agent with respect to both its uricosuric and diuretic properties in the rat.", "PMID": 451359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9620", "title": "The estrogenicity of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC neither blocks nor induces ovum implantation, nor does it effect uterine growth.", "content": "The estrogenicity of THC was assessed in three estrogen-sensitive systems. The drug did not block implantation when injected (s.c.) on Day 0 of pregnancy: on Day 6, 95% (3 mg/kg) and 86% (12 mg/kg) of the mice had embryos as did 96% (P greater than 0.1) of the controls; implantation occurred in only 9% (P less than 0.005) of mice treated similarly with estradiol (E2; 0.15 mg/kg). Nor did THC induce implantation: pregnant mice were ovariectomized on Day 1, treated daily with progesterone (2 mg, s.c.) and injected (i.p.) with THC on Day 3: at mg THC/kg 39% had embryos, as did 41% of those at 6 mg/kg; these rates do not differ (P greater than 0.99) from that of the controls (38%); in contrast, ova implanted in 75% (P less than 0.025) of E2-treated mice (4.0 microgram/kg). The average number of implanting ova was the same in all groups in both experiments. THC did not cause uterine hypertrophy: ovariectomized mice were injected (s.c.) for 14 days with THC (3 or 6 mg/kg) or E2(2 microgram/kg): the uterine weight, total uterine protein and total uterine glycogen of the ovariectomized controls was 24 +/- 2 mg, 3 +/- 0.3 mg and 11 +/- 3 mg respectively and the values for the THC-treated mice were not different (P greater than 0.05); in contrast, E2 increased (P less than 0.01) uterine weight to 139 +/- 9 mg, uterine protein to 5 +/- 0.6 mg and uterine glycogen to 62 +/- 8 mg. It is concluded that THC is not estrogenic.", "contents": "The estrogenicity of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC neither blocks nor induces ovum implantation, nor does it effect uterine growth. The estrogenicity of THC was assessed in three estrogen-sensitive systems. The drug did not block implantation when injected (s.c.) on Day 0 of pregnancy: on Day 6, 95% (3 mg/kg) and 86% (12 mg/kg) of the mice had embryos as did 96% (P greater than 0.1) of the controls; implantation occurred in only 9% (P less than 0.005) of mice treated similarly with estradiol (E2; 0.15 mg/kg). Nor did THC induce implantation: pregnant mice were ovariectomized on Day 1, treated daily with progesterone (2 mg, s.c.) and injected (i.p.) with THC on Day 3: at mg THC/kg 39% had embryos, as did 41% of those at 6 mg/kg; these rates do not differ (P greater than 0.99) from that of the controls (38%); in contrast, ova implanted in 75% (P less than 0.025) of E2-treated mice (4.0 microgram/kg). The average number of implanting ova was the same in all groups in both experiments. THC did not cause uterine hypertrophy: ovariectomized mice were injected (s.c.) for 14 days with THC (3 or 6 mg/kg) or E2(2 microgram/kg): the uterine weight, total uterine protein and total uterine glycogen of the ovariectomized controls was 24 +/- 2 mg, 3 +/- 0.3 mg and 11 +/- 3 mg respectively and the values for the THC-treated mice were not different (P greater than 0.05); in contrast, E2 increased (P less than 0.01) uterine weight to 139 +/- 9 mg, uterine protein to 5 +/- 0.6 mg and uterine glycogen to 62 +/- 8 mg. It is concluded that THC is not estrogenic.", "PMID": 451360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9621", "title": "Re-evaluation of the uptake of desoxyfructo-serotonin by human platelets, and of its effect on the uptake of serotonin.", "content": "Employing C14-glucose and C14-serotonin (5HT) as precursors, we have synthesized desoxyfructo-5HT [1-desoxy-1-(5-hydroxytryptamine)-D-fructose] labelled either in the sugar or 5HT moieties, and examined the uptake of the labelled substrate by washed human platelets. Desoxyfructo-5HT appears to interact with the 5HT uptake site, effectively inhibiting the uptake of H3-5HT. However, our data indicate that contrary to published reports, the entry of desoxyfructo-5HT into platelet vesicles or cytoplasm is negligible.", "contents": "Re-evaluation of the uptake of desoxyfructo-serotonin by human platelets, and of its effect on the uptake of serotonin. Employing C14-glucose and C14-serotonin (5HT) as precursors, we have synthesized desoxyfructo-5HT [1-desoxy-1-(5-hydroxytryptamine)-D-fructose] labelled either in the sugar or 5HT moieties, and examined the uptake of the labelled substrate by washed human platelets. Desoxyfructo-5HT appears to interact with the 5HT uptake site, effectively inhibiting the uptake of H3-5HT. However, our data indicate that contrary to published reports, the entry of desoxyfructo-5HT into platelet vesicles or cytoplasm is negligible.", "PMID": 451361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9622", "title": "Relative sensitivities and specificities of tests for small airways obstruction.", "content": "This study compared several physiologic maneuvers for detecting small airways obstruction (SAO). Volume of isoflow best separated young smokers (average age--27.6; average cigarette consumption--9.3 pack years) from nonsmokers; this was true for comparisons of both population means and incidence of individual abnormality. However, assessment of individual abnormality by any test was greatly influenced by the criteria used to define abnormality. The best combination of test sensitivity and specificity was achieved by using the 95% confidence limits derived from a control population from the same laboratory. Even so, test results did not correlate significantly with pack years of cigarette smoking. Then, although tests for SAO are very sensitive, their prognostic value in young smokers is uncertain since abnormality presumably should correlate with extent of smoking.", "contents": "Relative sensitivities and specificities of tests for small airways obstruction. This study compared several physiologic maneuvers for detecting small airways obstruction (SAO). Volume of isoflow best separated young smokers (average age--27.6; average cigarette consumption--9.3 pack years) from nonsmokers; this was true for comparisons of both population means and incidence of individual abnormality. However, assessment of individual abnormality by any test was greatly influenced by the criteria used to define abnormality. The best combination of test sensitivity and specificity was achieved by using the 95% confidence limits derived from a control population from the same laboratory. Even so, test results did not correlate significantly with pack years of cigarette smoking. Then, although tests for SAO are very sensitive, their prognostic value in young smokers is uncertain since abnormality presumably should correlate with extent of smoking.", "PMID": 451362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9623", "title": "Accuracy of screening for pulmonary embolism in the emergency room.", "content": "Pertinent historical, clinical, and laboratory findings were recorded for 37 consecutive patients who presented to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath and chest pain but without evidence of coronary insufficiency, pneumonia, or musculoskeletal injury. 13 had pulmonary embolism suggested by lung scan with or without pulmonary angiogram, or, in 2 cases, by right heart catheterization. As a group, these patients in whom embolism was judged probable approached fairly closely the profiles of previous studies of patients with documented pulmonary emboli. Nonetheless, they differed very little, and in no clinically useful way short of lung scans and invasive studies, from the remaining 24 patients in whom embolism was judged unlikely. In the population served by this emergency room, which has a high morbidity from chest diseases and putative predisposing conditions to pulmonary embolism, screening patients for high and low probability groups for this diagnosis cannot be done on clinical grounds alone. Six-projection ventilation-perfusion lung scanning may be the only acceptable screening examination, and should be available directly from the emergency room in hospitals with an active emergency service.", "contents": "Accuracy of screening for pulmonary embolism in the emergency room. Pertinent historical, clinical, and laboratory findings were recorded for 37 consecutive patients who presented to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath and chest pain but without evidence of coronary insufficiency, pneumonia, or musculoskeletal injury. 13 had pulmonary embolism suggested by lung scan with or without pulmonary angiogram, or, in 2 cases, by right heart catheterization. As a group, these patients in whom embolism was judged probable approached fairly closely the profiles of previous studies of patients with documented pulmonary emboli. Nonetheless, they differed very little, and in no clinically useful way short of lung scans and invasive studies, from the remaining 24 patients in whom embolism was judged unlikely. In the population served by this emergency room, which has a high morbidity from chest diseases and putative predisposing conditions to pulmonary embolism, screening patients for high and low probability groups for this diagnosis cannot be done on clinical grounds alone. Six-projection ventilation-perfusion lung scanning may be the only acceptable screening examination, and should be available directly from the emergency room in hospitals with an active emergency service.", "PMID": 451363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9624", "title": "Influence on the depth of inhalation on the effect of the beta 2-receptor-stimulating drug fenoterol hydrobromide (berotec).", "content": "Study of the influence of different modes of administration of 200 microgram of fenoterol showed that in a selected group of patients, two thirds of the maximal obtainable decrease in airway resistance could be achieved within 3 min of local application of 200 microgram fenoterol onto the nasal mucosa, without inhalation into the lower airways. Aspects of the potential pathways by which inhaled substances reach their receptor or target sites are discussed.", "contents": "Influence on the depth of inhalation on the effect of the beta 2-receptor-stimulating drug fenoterol hydrobromide (berotec). Study of the influence of different modes of administration of 200 microgram of fenoterol showed that in a selected group of patients, two thirds of the maximal obtainable decrease in airway resistance could be achieved within 3 min of local application of 200 microgram fenoterol onto the nasal mucosa, without inhalation into the lower airways. Aspects of the potential pathways by which inhaled substances reach their receptor or target sites are discussed.", "PMID": 451364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9625", "title": "[Effect of chronic hypercapnia on the gastric acid secretion in rats: a comparative study in vitro (author's transl)].", "content": "Rats are made hypercapnic by breathing 8% CO2 for a week. Their stomachs, removed under anaesthesia in a hypercarbic atmosphere, are placed in a special chamber and the acidic secretion (free + titratable) is measured in vitro in relation to different parameters of the controlled atmosphere. The secretion depends on the gas composition. Under the same conditions (mucosa CO2 = 8%, serosa CO2 = 10%) the in vitro secretion of the hypercapnic subjects (n = 32) is lower than that in the normal rats (n = 27), the latter secretion decreasing more rapidly with the duration of the in vitro measurement. The differences between the hypercapnic and the control subjects are in the order of +/- 10% in titratable acidity (mEq/l/h/cm2) and +/- 20% in free acidity (muEq/l/h/cm2).", "contents": "[Effect of chronic hypercapnia on the gastric acid secretion in rats: a comparative study in vitro (author's transl)]. Rats are made hypercapnic by breathing 8% CO2 for a week. Their stomachs, removed under anaesthesia in a hypercarbic atmosphere, are placed in a special chamber and the acidic secretion (free + titratable) is measured in vitro in relation to different parameters of the controlled atmosphere. The secretion depends on the gas composition. Under the same conditions (mucosa CO2 = 8%, serosa CO2 = 10%) the in vitro secretion of the hypercapnic subjects (n = 32) is lower than that in the normal rats (n = 27), the latter secretion decreasing more rapidly with the duration of the in vitro measurement. The differences between the hypercapnic and the control subjects are in the order of +/- 10% in titratable acidity (mEq/l/h/cm2) and +/- 20% in free acidity (muEq/l/h/cm2).", "PMID": 451365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9626", "title": "Pulmonary sarcoidosis: roentgenographic, functional, and pathologic correlations.", "content": "Discrepancies were observed between functional (PFT), chest roentgenographic, and open lung biopsy findings (granulomata, interstitial pneumonitis, angiitis, and fibrosis) in 81 patients with clinical diagnosis of sarcoidosis. A combination of normal PFT and Type 1 roentgenographic findings (hilar lymphadenopathy) was associated with minimal lung lesions without fibrosis. Type 1 findings alone did not preclude extensive lesions or fibrosis. Advanced roentgenographic and PFT abnormalities correlated with the presence of extensive lung lesions. The pulmonary diffusing capacity correlated best with specific and overall lung pathology, and roentgenographic types. Only this test differentiated the extent of granulomata and the roentgenographic types. Moderate degrees of other pathologic changes were not distinguished by any other PFT. Degrees of overall lung pathology correlated with an individual PFT and most significantly with overall PFT (p less than 0.001). Serial studies of PFT are a practical and valuable means for assessment of the disease process in sarcoidosis.", "contents": "Pulmonary sarcoidosis: roentgenographic, functional, and pathologic correlations. Discrepancies were observed between functional (PFT), chest roentgenographic, and open lung biopsy findings (granulomata, interstitial pneumonitis, angiitis, and fibrosis) in 81 patients with clinical diagnosis of sarcoidosis. A combination of normal PFT and Type 1 roentgenographic findings (hilar lymphadenopathy) was associated with minimal lung lesions without fibrosis. Type 1 findings alone did not preclude extensive lesions or fibrosis. Advanced roentgenographic and PFT abnormalities correlated with the presence of extensive lung lesions. The pulmonary diffusing capacity correlated best with specific and overall lung pathology, and roentgenographic types. Only this test differentiated the extent of granulomata and the roentgenographic types. Moderate degrees of other pathologic changes were not distinguished by any other PFT. Degrees of overall lung pathology correlated with an individual PFT and most significantly with overall PFT (p less than 0.001). Serial studies of PFT are a practical and valuable means for assessment of the disease process in sarcoidosis.", "PMID": 451366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9627", "title": "Giant fibrous pleural mesothelioma associated with myocardial restriction and hypoglycemia.", "content": "A giant pleural fibrous mesothelioma was the cause of severe nonobstructive ventilatory incapacity, myocardial restriction with congestive failure and hypoglycemic episodes in a 58-year-old man. Surgical resection resulted in complete recovery of respiratory function and disappearance of hypoglycemic episodes.", "contents": "Giant fibrous pleural mesothelioma associated with myocardial restriction and hypoglycemia. A giant pleural fibrous mesothelioma was the cause of severe nonobstructive ventilatory incapacity, myocardial restriction with congestive failure and hypoglycemic episodes in a 58-year-old man. Surgical resection resulted in complete recovery of respiratory function and disappearance of hypoglycemic episodes.", "PMID": 451367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9628", "title": "On the boundary conditions used in calculations of gas mixing in alveolar lungs.", "content": "The lung boundaries exhibit a tight barrier for any insoluble gas; hence boundary conditions for lung gas mixing have to account for the absence of both diffusive and convective fluxes across the lung walls. Scrimshire et al. (1978) have, in contrast, used the less rigid boundary condition that only the net flux be zero. As we believe this boundary condition to be inappropriate for the study of insoluble gases, the results derived appear to have no physiological significance.", "contents": "On the boundary conditions used in calculations of gas mixing in alveolar lungs. The lung boundaries exhibit a tight barrier for any insoluble gas; hence boundary conditions for lung gas mixing have to account for the absence of both diffusive and convective fluxes across the lung walls. Scrimshire et al. (1978) have, in contrast, used the less rigid boundary condition that only the net flux be zero. As we believe this boundary condition to be inappropriate for the study of insoluble gases, the results derived appear to have no physiological significance.", "PMID": 451368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9629", "title": "Pulmonary receptor chemosensitivity and the ventilatory response to inhaled CO2 in the turtle.", "content": "Ventilatory responses of unanesthetized turtles to changes in the intrapulmonary CO2 content of a vascularly isolated and an intact lung were measured during spontaneous breathing. The hyperpnea associated with inhalation of CO2 by the vascularly isolated lung was 19% of that associated with inhalation of CO2 by the intact lung. Transection of the vagus nerve supplying the isolated lung abolished this response. We conclude that both inhibition of pulmonary stretch receptor discharge with increasing levels of FICO2 and a functional increase in central inspiratory volume threshold during hypercapnia contribute to tidal volume increases following CO2 inhalation in normal animals. The major component of the ventilatory response of intact turtles to increasing levels of FICO2, however, was an increase in respiratory frequency. When CO2 was inspired only by the vascularly isolated lung the increase in respiratory frequency was only 21% of that recorded when the same levels of CO2 were inspired by the intact lung. Thus the ventilatory response of turtles to increasing levels of FICO2 is primarily dependent upon concomitant hypercapnia.", "contents": "Pulmonary receptor chemosensitivity and the ventilatory response to inhaled CO2 in the turtle. Ventilatory responses of unanesthetized turtles to changes in the intrapulmonary CO2 content of a vascularly isolated and an intact lung were measured during spontaneous breathing. The hyperpnea associated with inhalation of CO2 by the vascularly isolated lung was 19% of that associated with inhalation of CO2 by the intact lung. Transection of the vagus nerve supplying the isolated lung abolished this response. We conclude that both inhibition of pulmonary stretch receptor discharge with increasing levels of FICO2 and a functional increase in central inspiratory volume threshold during hypercapnia contribute to tidal volume increases following CO2 inhalation in normal animals. The major component of the ventilatory response of intact turtles to increasing levels of FICO2, however, was an increase in respiratory frequency. When CO2 was inspired only by the vascularly isolated lung the increase in respiratory frequency was only 21% of that recorded when the same levels of CO2 were inspired by the intact lung. Thus the ventilatory response of turtles to increasing levels of FICO2 is primarily dependent upon concomitant hypercapnia.", "PMID": 451369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9630", "title": "Respiration and heart rate in exercising land crabs.", "content": "Land Crabs, Cardisoma guanhumi, were fitted with respiratory masks and E.C.G. electrodes and run for 10 or 20 min on a treadmill at speeds of 150 and 300 cm/min. Aerobic metabolism increased linearly with the speed of locomotion. The recovery period was characterized by a large oxygen debt. The primary respiratory adjustment to exercise was an increased ventilation volume; only a minor increase in oxygen extraction occurred. The respiratory exchange ratio increased during exercise and during recovery, presumably correlated with a metabolic acidosis. These results are similar to data collected for exercising vertebrates and the net cost of locomotion of crabs appears similar to quadrupeds. However, the heart rate in exercising crabs changed in an unexpected way: during moderate exercise no change was noted, but during heavy exercise a bradycardia developed. The reduction in rate resulted from an increase in interbeat interval and frequent pauses in the heart beat.", "contents": "Respiration and heart rate in exercising land crabs. Land Crabs, Cardisoma guanhumi, were fitted with respiratory masks and E.C.G. electrodes and run for 10 or 20 min on a treadmill at speeds of 150 and 300 cm/min. Aerobic metabolism increased linearly with the speed of locomotion. The recovery period was characterized by a large oxygen debt. The primary respiratory adjustment to exercise was an increased ventilation volume; only a minor increase in oxygen extraction occurred. The respiratory exchange ratio increased during exercise and during recovery, presumably correlated with a metabolic acidosis. These results are similar to data collected for exercising vertebrates and the net cost of locomotion of crabs appears similar to quadrupeds. However, the heart rate in exercising crabs changed in an unexpected way: during moderate exercise no change was noted, but during heavy exercise a bradycardia developed. The reduction in rate resulted from an increase in interbeat interval and frequent pauses in the heart beat.", "PMID": 451370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9631", "title": "The accuracy and spatial resolution of the measurement of tissue oxygen removal rate.", "content": "An analysis is presented of factors determining the accuracy and spatial resolution of a method for the estimation of oxygen removal rate in tissues using a multi-cathode electrode placed on the tissue surface. The effect of oxygen consumption by the cathodes is shown to be small for 25-micrometer diameter cathodes, but covering the tissue surface with a thin oxygen oxygen-permeable plastic film can introduce a systematic error into the estimate of removal rate, the size of which depends upon the oxygen diffusion coefficient and solubility in the plastic compared with those in the tissue. Spatial resolution is shown to be adequate for distinguishing changes in removal rate over distances of a few hundred microns, and the averaging of removal rate in the direction normal to the tissue surface is weighted heavily towards the superficial tissue layer.", "contents": "The accuracy and spatial resolution of the measurement of tissue oxygen removal rate. An analysis is presented of factors determining the accuracy and spatial resolution of a method for the estimation of oxygen removal rate in tissues using a multi-cathode electrode placed on the tissue surface. The effect of oxygen consumption by the cathodes is shown to be small for 25-micrometer diameter cathodes, but covering the tissue surface with a thin oxygen oxygen-permeable plastic film can introduce a systematic error into the estimate of removal rate, the size of which depends upon the oxygen diffusion coefficient and solubility in the plastic compared with those in the tissue. Spatial resolution is shown to be adequate for distinguishing changes in removal rate over distances of a few hundred microns, and the averaging of removal rate in the direction normal to the tissue surface is weighted heavily towards the superficial tissue layer.", "PMID": 451371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9632", "title": "Pulmonary O2 diffusing capacity estimates from assumed log-normal VA/Q distributions.", "content": "Steady-state pulmonary gas exchange has been measured in hypoxia in 33 mongrel dogs with the aim of comparing DLO2 estimates obtained with three procedures differing by the models assumed for functional inhomogeneity. In the first procedure the lung was assumed to be homogeneous and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 15 mumol . min-1. Torr-1 . kg-1. In the second procedure, which is the one commonly used in respiratory physiology, alveolar dead space was considered as the unique form of functional inhomogeneity and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 31 mumol . min-1. Torr-1 . kg-1. In the third procedure, which has been specially worked out for this study, functional inhomogeneity was represented by a log-normal distribution of the VA/Q ratios and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 50 mumol . min-1 . Torr-1 . kg-1. The relation between the DLO2 estimates by the second and by the third procedures was found to depend upon the blood pH. This could be explained on the basis of the effects of acidosis on the blood capacitances for O2 and for CO2. Analysis suggests that in hypoxia where normally the O2 capacitance is about half the CO2 one, the third procedure yields DLO2 estimates about twice as large as those obtained by the second one.", "contents": "Pulmonary O2 diffusing capacity estimates from assumed log-normal VA/Q distributions. Steady-state pulmonary gas exchange has been measured in hypoxia in 33 mongrel dogs with the aim of comparing DLO2 estimates obtained with three procedures differing by the models assumed for functional inhomogeneity. In the first procedure the lung was assumed to be homogeneous and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 15 mumol . min-1. Torr-1 . kg-1. In the second procedure, which is the one commonly used in respiratory physiology, alveolar dead space was considered as the unique form of functional inhomogeneity and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 31 mumol . min-1. Torr-1 . kg-1. In the third procedure, which has been specially worked out for this study, functional inhomogeneity was represented by a log-normal distribution of the VA/Q ratios and the corresponding DLO2 estimate was 50 mumol . min-1 . Torr-1 . kg-1. The relation between the DLO2 estimates by the second and by the third procedures was found to depend upon the blood pH. This could be explained on the basis of the effects of acidosis on the blood capacitances for O2 and for CO2. Analysis suggests that in hypoxia where normally the O2 capacitance is about half the CO2 one, the third procedure yields DLO2 estimates about twice as large as those obtained by the second one.", "PMID": 451372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9633", "title": "A two-compartment model of blood acid-base state at constant or variable temperature.", "content": "Information available in the literature on the acid-base properties of oxygenated mammalian blood at a constant or variable temperature was put together into a synthetic model; this also aimed at reconciling the single compartment descriptions of acid-base vs temperature relationships in closed ('anaerobic') conditions with the standard dual compartment analysis of isothermal titrations. Experimental values for the concentrations of blood constituents, buffer dissociation constants, etc. were introduced into the set of physicochemical equations governing the steady-state distribution of CO2, electrolytes and water between plasma and red cells. Design of the model was such as to permit monitoring of all variables (e.g. concentrations) throughout any simulated acid-base transformation. A fairly good fit was obtained between model predictions and experimentally-determined relationships or quantities not introduced into the model from the start. Applications to variable temperature titration and to the effects of changes in blood composition or osmolality are presented. The latter underline the implicit assumptions made by neglecting such variables in current presentations of blood acid-base state.", "contents": "A two-compartment model of blood acid-base state at constant or variable temperature. Information available in the literature on the acid-base properties of oxygenated mammalian blood at a constant or variable temperature was put together into a synthetic model; this also aimed at reconciling the single compartment descriptions of acid-base vs temperature relationships in closed ('anaerobic') conditions with the standard dual compartment analysis of isothermal titrations. Experimental values for the concentrations of blood constituents, buffer dissociation constants, etc. were introduced into the set of physicochemical equations governing the steady-state distribution of CO2, electrolytes and water between plasma and red cells. Design of the model was such as to permit monitoring of all variables (e.g. concentrations) throughout any simulated acid-base transformation. A fairly good fit was obtained between model predictions and experimentally-determined relationships or quantities not introduced into the model from the start. Applications to variable temperature titration and to the effects of changes in blood composition or osmolality are presented. The latter underline the implicit assumptions made by neglecting such variables in current presentations of blood acid-base state.", "PMID": 451373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9634", "title": "Effects of dopamine, norepinephrine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on the carotid body of the dog.", "content": "The effects of bolus intracarotid (IC) infusions of dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) on activity in single or few-fiber carotid chemoreceptor afferent nerve preparations were studied in pentobarbital anesthetized dogs. In addition, the effects of intravenous (IV) infusions of DA were also assessed. IC injections of DA (10 microgram) and (5-HT) (1 microgram) consistently produced a burst of intense activity followed by a period of inhibition. A similar effect was seen with IC NE (20--40 microgram) injections, but the burst of excitation occurred in only 45% of the injections. Inhibition of activity was seen in 88% of the IC NE injections. Low IC doses of all 3 amines produced inhibition of chemoreceptor afferent activity. High doses of DA IV (approximately 60 microgram/kg/))produced excitation followed by depression, while lower doses (approximately 21 microgram/kg) produced only inhibition. The excitatory effects of all 3 amines were blocked by d-tubocurarine (50--435 microgram/kg IV). Inhibitory effects of all 3 amines were blocked by dihydroergotamine (140--270 microgram/kg). The inhibitory effect produced by DA was specifically blocked by haloperidol (50--400 microgram/kg IV). We conclude that DA, NE and 5-HT can modulate carotid body activity by increasing or decreasing responses to physiologic stimuli.", "contents": "Effects of dopamine, norepinephrine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on the carotid body of the dog. The effects of bolus intracarotid (IC) infusions of dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) on activity in single or few-fiber carotid chemoreceptor afferent nerve preparations were studied in pentobarbital anesthetized dogs. In addition, the effects of intravenous (IV) infusions of DA were also assessed. IC injections of DA (10 microgram) and (5-HT) (1 microgram) consistently produced a burst of intense activity followed by a period of inhibition. A similar effect was seen with IC NE (20--40 microgram) injections, but the burst of excitation occurred in only 45% of the injections. Inhibition of activity was seen in 88% of the IC NE injections. Low IC doses of all 3 amines produced inhibition of chemoreceptor afferent activity. High doses of DA IV (approximately 60 microgram/kg/))produced excitation followed by depression, while lower doses (approximately 21 microgram/kg) produced only inhibition. The excitatory effects of all 3 amines were blocked by d-tubocurarine (50--435 microgram/kg IV). Inhibitory effects of all 3 amines were blocked by dihydroergotamine (140--270 microgram/kg). The inhibitory effect produced by DA was specifically blocked by haloperidol (50--400 microgram/kg IV). We conclude that DA, NE and 5-HT can modulate carotid body activity by increasing or decreasing responses to physiologic stimuli.", "PMID": 451374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9635", "title": "Ventilatory responses to carbon dioxide inhalation after vagotomy in chickens.", "content": "Both vagus nerves in 7 anesthetized chickens were cut midcervically. Inspired PCO2 was increased from 0 to 28 torr by successive 3.5 or 7 torr increments and then increased directly to 70 torr. At each level of PICO2, steady-state measures of PaCO2, [H+]a, VT, f and VE were made. When PICO2 was raised to 7 torr, PaCO2 AND [H+]a were above their control levels (i.e. PICO2 = 0); at each successive level of PICO2, both PaCO2 and [H+]a increased. Minute volume increased at 28 torr PICO2 but changes in VT and f individually were not significant. At 70 torr PICO2, VE and VT increased but f was not changed from its control value. We have previously suggested that CO2-sensitive intrapulmonary chemoreceptors mediate the arterial isocapnic hyperpnea at low PICO2 in chickens. The observation that vagotomy abolishes regulation of PaCO2 at low PICO2 is consistent with this hypothesis, since the afferent pathway of avian intrapulmonary chemoreceptors is predominantly vagal.", "contents": "Ventilatory responses to carbon dioxide inhalation after vagotomy in chickens. Both vagus nerves in 7 anesthetized chickens were cut midcervically. Inspired PCO2 was increased from 0 to 28 torr by successive 3.5 or 7 torr increments and then increased directly to 70 torr. At each level of PICO2, steady-state measures of PaCO2, [H+]a, VT, f and VE were made. When PICO2 was raised to 7 torr, PaCO2 AND [H+]a were above their control levels (i.e. PICO2 = 0); at each successive level of PICO2, both PaCO2 and [H+]a increased. Minute volume increased at 28 torr PICO2 but changes in VT and f individually were not significant. At 70 torr PICO2, VE and VT increased but f was not changed from its control value. We have previously suggested that CO2-sensitive intrapulmonary chemoreceptors mediate the arterial isocapnic hyperpnea at low PICO2 in chickens. The observation that vagotomy abolishes regulation of PaCO2 at low PICO2 is consistent with this hypothesis, since the afferent pathway of avian intrapulmonary chemoreceptors is predominantly vagal.", "PMID": 451375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9636", "title": "Patterns of disability related to joint involvement in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "The relationship between particular disabilities and specific impairments of which these disabilities could be the consequence has been explored. Assessments of performance of activities of daily living (ADL) have been simplified by factor analysis, and the resultant factors have been related to the sites of joint involvement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Our preliminary findings on the grouping together of various ADL activities are meaningful in terms of underlying impairments, and at the same time indicate an approach for simplification of ADL assessments so as to enhance their value for research and the evaluation of outcome. The results are entirely consistent with a comprehensive model of disablement.", "contents": "Patterns of disability related to joint involvement in rheumatoid arthritis. The relationship between particular disabilities and specific impairments of which these disabilities could be the consequence has been explored. Assessments of performance of activities of daily living (ADL) have been simplified by factor analysis, and the resultant factors have been related to the sites of joint involvement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Our preliminary findings on the grouping together of various ADL activities are meaningful in terms of underlying impairments, and at the same time indicate an approach for simplification of ADL assessments so as to enhance their value for research and the evaluation of outcome. The results are entirely consistent with a comprehensive model of disablement.", "PMID": 451392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9637", "title": "Circumferential measurements in the assessment of synovitis of the knee.", "content": "In a quest for a objective assessment of synovitis of the knee, the value of circumferential measurements of the knee at two levels has been tested. Measurement 1 cm above the patella was shown to be more precise and to correlate better with the quantity of synovial fluid aspirated than measurement at mid-patellar level. The size of change necessary for statistical significance frequently exceeded the change likely to be found in clinical practice. The precision of measurement is greater in normal than in rheumatoid knees, and can be increased by using the mean of duplicate measurements rather than a single measurement. In clinical trials, the use of one observer throughout will increase the reliance that can be placed on the changes in measurements.", "contents": "Circumferential measurements in the assessment of synovitis of the knee. In a quest for a objective assessment of synovitis of the knee, the value of circumferential measurements of the knee at two levels has been tested. Measurement 1 cm above the patella was shown to be more precise and to correlate better with the quantity of synovial fluid aspirated than measurement at mid-patellar level. The size of change necessary for statistical significance frequently exceeded the change likely to be found in clinical practice. The precision of measurement is greater in normal than in rheumatoid knees, and can be increased by using the mean of duplicate measurements rather than a single measurement. In clinical trials, the use of one observer throughout will increase the reliance that can be placed on the changes in measurements.", "PMID": 451393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9638", "title": "A simple goniometer for measuring hip function.", "content": "A goniometer was designed and developed in an attempt to find an objective method of measuring hip flexion and extension in walking as as indication of hip function. Existing goniometers were found to be inadequate for clinical and research use because either they did not provide sufficient information or the information they provided was more than necessary, requiring bulky and time-consuming power devices. The present goniometer is a compromise, providing a quick and easy-to-use clinical and research tool which measures total flexion and extension in walking.", "contents": "A simple goniometer for measuring hip function. A goniometer was designed and developed in an attempt to find an objective method of measuring hip flexion and extension in walking as as indication of hip function. Existing goniometers were found to be inadequate for clinical and research use because either they did not provide sufficient information or the information they provided was more than necessary, requiring bulky and time-consuming power devices. The present goniometer is a compromise, providing a quick and easy-to-use clinical and research tool which measures total flexion and extension in walking.", "PMID": 451394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9639", "title": "Persistent local cutaneous atrophy following corticosteroid injection for tendinitis.", "content": "A 21-year-old female, treated with triamcinolone for tendinitis in the oblique muscles of both forearms, developed a skin atrophy, localized around the injection points. The patient was followed over a period of more than five years during which a partial remission of the skin changes was observed. A synopsis covering local use of steroids for various diseases is given.", "contents": "Persistent local cutaneous atrophy following corticosteroid injection for tendinitis. A 21-year-old female, treated with triamcinolone for tendinitis in the oblique muscles of both forearms, developed a skin atrophy, localized around the injection points. The patient was followed over a period of more than five years during which a partial remission of the skin changes was observed. A synopsis covering local use of steroids for various diseases is given.", "PMID": 451395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9640", "title": "[Transitory ischemia of the mesencephalon caused by vertebral angiography].", "content": "Vertebral angiography, performed using catheterization according to Seldinger, is followed by a transitory Weber syndrome. The Authors maintain that the vessel spasm of the vertebro-basilar territory, visible during the angiography, is the main cause of the transitory ischemic attach at the base of the mesencephalon.", "contents": "[Transitory ischemia of the mesencephalon caused by vertebral angiography]. Vertebral angiography, performed using catheterization according to Seldinger, is followed by a transitory Weber syndrome. The Authors maintain that the vessel spasm of the vertebro-basilar territory, visible during the angiography, is the main cause of the transitory ischemic attach at the base of the mesencephalon.", "PMID": 451396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9641", "title": "[Dantrolene in juvenile spasticity: 3 months of daily observation].", "content": "After a clarifying outline on the most recent anatomo-physiopathologic acquisitions about muscular tone and spasticity, the Author presents the results of a prolonged administration (three months) which was daily controlled, in an Institute for dyskinetic subjects. At the dose of 1 mg/kg/die during the first week, 2 mg/kg/die during the second week and 3 mg/kg/die during the third and the following ones (total posology pro die divided into 3 post-prandium administrations), Dantrolene was administered to 16 subjects of both sexes, whose average age was 13, who presented marked spasticity sometimes accompanied by dystonia. An evaluation was given on these parameters: 1) spasticity estimated in three degrees according to Morosini, 2) passive articular movement (wideness and easiness of maximum excursion), 3) capability of voluntary decontraction, 4) motoricity of relation (motorial difficulty) and 5) dystonic component if present. As a global results, out of 16 cases, nine improved (56%) and seven (44%) remained unaltered. Since the drug resulted to be inefficacious in all cases with dystonia, the global improvement recorded among \"pure spastics\" rised to 66% of cases. Neither intolerances nor negative secundary effects were noticed.", "contents": "[Dantrolene in juvenile spasticity: 3 months of daily observation]. After a clarifying outline on the most recent anatomo-physiopathologic acquisitions about muscular tone and spasticity, the Author presents the results of a prolonged administration (three months) which was daily controlled, in an Institute for dyskinetic subjects. At the dose of 1 mg/kg/die during the first week, 2 mg/kg/die during the second week and 3 mg/kg/die during the third and the following ones (total posology pro die divided into 3 post-prandium administrations), Dantrolene was administered to 16 subjects of both sexes, whose average age was 13, who presented marked spasticity sometimes accompanied by dystonia. An evaluation was given on these parameters: 1) spasticity estimated in three degrees according to Morosini, 2) passive articular movement (wideness and easiness of maximum excursion), 3) capability of voluntary decontraction, 4) motoricity of relation (motorial difficulty) and 5) dystonic component if present. As a global results, out of 16 cases, nine improved (56%) and seven (44%) remained unaltered. Since the drug resulted to be inefficacious in all cases with dystonia, the global improvement recorded among \"pure spastics\" rised to 66% of cases. Neither intolerances nor negative secundary effects were noticed.", "PMID": 451397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9642", "title": "[Long-term anticonvulsant therapy and calcium and phosphorus metabolism].", "content": "The authors examined 114 epileptic patients who were taking anticonvulsant drugs from different periods of time. Serum and urinary calcium and phosphorus and serum alkaline phosphatase levels have been studied. Roentgenographic researches have been made in order to asses the bone mineral content. Urinary D-glucaric acid excretion as a quantitative index of hepatic enzyme induction has been determined in some subjects. The results show the presence of minor alterations both in calcium and phosphorus metabolism and in bone structure at a subclinical level. These findings suggest the importance of climatic and nutritional factors in the development of bone alterations pointed out by several authors in epileptic patients on long-term anticonvulsant therapy.", "contents": "[Long-term anticonvulsant therapy and calcium and phosphorus metabolism]. The authors examined 114 epileptic patients who were taking anticonvulsant drugs from different periods of time. Serum and urinary calcium and phosphorus and serum alkaline phosphatase levels have been studied. Roentgenographic researches have been made in order to asses the bone mineral content. Urinary D-glucaric acid excretion as a quantitative index of hepatic enzyme induction has been determined in some subjects. The results show the presence of minor alterations both in calcium and phosphorus metabolism and in bone structure at a subclinical level. These findings suggest the importance of climatic and nutritional factors in the development of bone alterations pointed out by several authors in epileptic patients on long-term anticonvulsant therapy.", "PMID": 451400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9643", "title": "[Use of substances modifying serotonin metabolism in the treatment of narco-cataplexy (considerations on 5 cases)].", "content": "The AA., after a critical analysis of the new proposed treatments for the narco-cataplexy, report their experience about the therapeutic possibilities of this syndrome with particular manipulations of cerebral serotonin (5-HT). In 5 patients they tried to act on the two sides of the sleeping-waking cycle by using a diurnal administration of Methysergide (5-HT inhibitor) and an evening loading of L-Tryptophan combined with Benserazide (dopa-decarboxilase inhibitor). The immediate and long term results on the nercoleptic as well as cataplectic symptoms can be considered good. Conversely treatments with Clomipramine alone exerted poor beneficial effects in these patients. The AA. discuss the physiopathogenetic mechanisms which are thought to be involved in this disease.", "contents": "[Use of substances modifying serotonin metabolism in the treatment of narco-cataplexy (considerations on 5 cases)]. The AA., after a critical analysis of the new proposed treatments for the narco-cataplexy, report their experience about the therapeutic possibilities of this syndrome with particular manipulations of cerebral serotonin (5-HT). In 5 patients they tried to act on the two sides of the sleeping-waking cycle by using a diurnal administration of Methysergide (5-HT inhibitor) and an evening loading of L-Tryptophan combined with Benserazide (dopa-decarboxilase inhibitor). The immediate and long term results on the nercoleptic as well as cataplectic symptoms can be considered good. Conversely treatments with Clomipramine alone exerted poor beneficial effects in these patients. The AA. discuss the physiopathogenetic mechanisms which are thought to be involved in this disease.", "PMID": 451399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9644", "title": "[Subarachnoid hemorrhage as the 1st clinical manifestation of neurinoma of the acoustic nerve].", "content": "The association of sub-arachnoidal hemorrhage and benignant tumors of the pontocerebellar angle represent a rare event. The authors describe a case of neurinoma of the acoustic nerve which revealed itself with a sub-arachnoidal hemorrhage. After recalling the other only observation reported in literature, the authors discuss both its clinic and etiopathogenesis.", "contents": "[Subarachnoid hemorrhage as the 1st clinical manifestation of neurinoma of the acoustic nerve]. The association of sub-arachnoidal hemorrhage and benignant tumors of the pontocerebellar angle represent a rare event. The authors describe a case of neurinoma of the acoustic nerve which revealed itself with a sub-arachnoidal hemorrhage. After recalling the other only observation reported in literature, the authors discuss both its clinic and etiopathogenesis.", "PMID": 451403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9645", "title": "[The general intelligence factor: psychometric study. Approach to the problem of mental deterioration].", "content": "The authors have measured the correlation coefficient between W.B. and P.M. scores in 80 normal subjects, comparable for age and school. A mutual relationship between the two tests, connected by the hypothetical general intelligence factor \"g\", was really demonstrated. Correlation coefficient was positive and significative between W.B. total scores, excepted verbal scores, and P.M., the highest one between subtests 8, 9 and P.M. The intra-tests correlation between W.B. total scores and each subtest score was also evaluated: between sub-tests 8, 9 and W.B. total scores the highest one again. A new qualitative interpretation of mental deterioration in clinical neurology and psychiatry is suggested on the base of these results.", "contents": "[The general intelligence factor: psychometric study. Approach to the problem of mental deterioration]. The authors have measured the correlation coefficient between W.B. and P.M. scores in 80 normal subjects, comparable for age and school. A mutual relationship between the two tests, connected by the hypothetical general intelligence factor \"g\", was really demonstrated. Correlation coefficient was positive and significative between W.B. total scores, excepted verbal scores, and P.M., the highest one between subtests 8, 9 and P.M. The intra-tests correlation between W.B. total scores and each subtest score was also evaluated: between sub-tests 8, 9 and W.B. total scores the highest one again. A new qualitative interpretation of mental deterioration in clinical neurology and psychiatry is suggested on the base of these results.", "PMID": 451402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9646", "title": "[Primary spinal tumors of multiple localization].", "content": "The authors report the case of a patient submitted to an operation of spinal tumors with multiple localization which, beside enriching the rare observations existing in literature, presents and hypertensive hypertension hydrocephalus with non common pathogenesis and points out considerable difficulties of interpretation of the histologic picture. After examining literature and describing the case in detail, the authors discuss the etiopathogenesis of hydrocephalus and examine the histologic aspect of extirpated tumors.", "contents": "[Primary spinal tumors of multiple localization]. The authors report the case of a patient submitted to an operation of spinal tumors with multiple localization which, beside enriching the rare observations existing in literature, presents and hypertensive hypertension hydrocephalus with non common pathogenesis and points out considerable difficulties of interpretation of the histologic picture. After examining literature and describing the case in detail, the authors discuss the etiopathogenesis of hydrocephalus and examine the histologic aspect of extirpated tumors.", "PMID": 451407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9647", "title": "[Clinical and angiographic aspects of a unilateral chronic convexity subdural hematoma].", "content": "The Authors reviewed 52 cases of unilateral chronic subdural hematoma (c.s.h.) of the convexity from the clinical and angiographic point of view. They stated that it is possible to subdivide the c.s.h. into three main clinico-angiographic types: type 1: with focal symptoms and with almost always \"biconvex\" shape; type 2: with signs of intracranial hypertension and with \"transitional or \"biconvex\" shape; type 3: with prevalent consciousness alterations and with \"transitional\" or \"crescentic\" shape. The shifting of the medial structure in relationship with the size of the hematoma is also discussed.", "contents": "[Clinical and angiographic aspects of a unilateral chronic convexity subdural hematoma]. The Authors reviewed 52 cases of unilateral chronic subdural hematoma (c.s.h.) of the convexity from the clinical and angiographic point of view. They stated that it is possible to subdivide the c.s.h. into three main clinico-angiographic types: type 1: with focal symptoms and with almost always \"biconvex\" shape; type 2: with signs of intracranial hypertension and with \"transitional or \"biconvex\" shape; type 3: with prevalent consciousness alterations and with \"transitional\" or \"crescentic\" shape. The shifting of the medial structure in relationship with the size of the hematoma is also discussed.", "PMID": 451404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9648", "title": "[Clonazepam in painful syndromes of the head].", "content": "A study of 46 patients has shown that Clonazepam is an effective drug in preventing attacks of pain in essential trigeminal and glossopharyngeal neuralgia and in Sluder's syndrome. The therapeutic action of the drug is less evident in different types of migraine, among which only the combined headache presents good results to the treatment. The effective dose of this drug is generally not greater than 3 mg/die and does not give rise to side effects in long-term prescription.", "contents": "[Clonazepam in painful syndromes of the head]. A study of 46 patients has shown that Clonazepam is an effective drug in preventing attacks of pain in essential trigeminal and glossopharyngeal neuralgia and in Sluder's syndrome. The therapeutic action of the drug is less evident in different types of migraine, among which only the combined headache presents good results to the treatment. The effective dose of this drug is generally not greater than 3 mg/die and does not give rise to side effects in long-term prescription.", "PMID": 451405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9649", "title": "[Pathology and classification of colorectal polyps].", "content": "This survey deals with the principles of classifying colorectal polyps and with the fundamentals of anatomic pathology of these growths. In this connection, the epithelial neoplastic types, which are now known as adenomas, are of particular importance in so far as they are the potential precursors of carcinomas of the colon and rectum (\"\"adenoma cancer sequence''). The polypectomy specimen alone enables definite histo-pathological diagnosis.", "contents": "[Pathology and classification of colorectal polyps]. This survey deals with the principles of classifying colorectal polyps and with the fundamentals of anatomic pathology of these growths. In this connection, the epithelial neoplastic types, which are now known as adenomas, are of particular importance in so far as they are the potential precursors of carcinomas of the colon and rectum (\"\"adenoma cancer sequence''). The polypectomy specimen alone enables definite histo-pathological diagnosis.", "PMID": 451434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9650", "title": "[Radiological diagnosis of colorectal polypi and carcinomas which have not progressed].", "content": "Provided examination conditions are optimal, we are now able to detect changes of the wall of the colon from about 5 mm diameter upwards and thus to further clarify the diagnosis and to initiate appropriate treatment. Hence, the demand for early or timely diagnosis can be met by means of x-ray diagnosis in respect of processes of the colon.", "contents": "[Radiological diagnosis of colorectal polypi and carcinomas which have not progressed]. Provided examination conditions are optimal, we are now able to detect changes of the wall of the colon from about 5 mm diameter upwards and thus to further clarify the diagnosis and to initiate appropriate treatment. Hence, the demand for early or timely diagnosis can be met by means of x-ray diagnosis in respect of processes of the colon.", "PMID": 451435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9651", "title": "[Fracture of skull-comparative study of conventional and computer-assisted roentgenological examination (author's transl)].", "content": "Using a skull like phantome imaging characteristics of conventional x-ray technique and computerized tomography are compared. The contrast transfer function of x-ray films proofs to be superior, whichis due to overrange artefacts found in computerized tomography. Only 8 out of 50 skull fractures diagnosed by plain film technique were identified on computer-tomograms. Even though CT technique is excellent for the detection of intracranial lesions, fractures are more easily seen on conventional films. This is especially important for analysing size and site of impression fractures.", "contents": "[Fracture of skull-comparative study of conventional and computer-assisted roentgenological examination (author's transl)]. Using a skull like phantome imaging characteristics of conventional x-ray technique and computerized tomography are compared. The contrast transfer function of x-ray films proofs to be superior, whichis due to overrange artefacts found in computerized tomography. Only 8 out of 50 skull fractures diagnosed by plain film technique were identified on computer-tomograms. Even though CT technique is excellent for the detection of intracranial lesions, fractures are more easily seen on conventional films. This is especially important for analysing size and site of impression fractures.", "PMID": 451436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9652", "title": "[Reactive osseous changes in intracranial types of meningioma (author's transl)].", "content": "Reactive osseous changes are so characteristic of meningiomas that diagnosis of meningioma is not infrequently possible by merely x-raying the cranium. The x-ray film shows flat or bed-like growing intracranial types (meningioma en plaque) which occupy little space or none at all, where the skeletal changes are most prominent. This type of meningioma escapes contrast medium diagnosis and is positive only in the conventional x-ray of the cranium or - in the state of beginning spread - in the tomogram.", "contents": "[Reactive osseous changes in intracranial types of meningioma (author's transl)]. Reactive osseous changes are so characteristic of meningiomas that diagnosis of meningioma is not infrequently possible by merely x-raying the cranium. The x-ray film shows flat or bed-like growing intracranial types (meningioma en plaque) which occupy little space or none at all, where the skeletal changes are most prominent. This type of meningioma escapes contrast medium diagnosis and is positive only in the conventional x-ray of the cranium or - in the state of beginning spread - in the tomogram.", "PMID": 451437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9653", "title": "[Radiation-risk in roentgendiagnostic of the gastro-intestinal tract (author's transl)].", "content": "The probability to induce leukemia or malignoma by roentgenexamination of the gastrointestinal tract is quite small. Basing on riskestimations of the ICRP and own measurements, the probability is about 1:25,000 in angiography. For x-ray examination of the stomach-duodenum, the small bowl, and the colon the radiation risk is approximatively 1:300,000 to 1:800,000. The probability to provoque radiation induced mutations, manifesting themselves in future children or grandchildren, is quite similair for male patients. On the other hand the risk for future children and grandchildren of female patients is a bit higher. An exception is the roentgenexamination of the colon, because direct exposure of the testes is in general inevitable.", "contents": "[Radiation-risk in roentgendiagnostic of the gastro-intestinal tract (author's transl)]. The probability to induce leukemia or malignoma by roentgenexamination of the gastrointestinal tract is quite small. Basing on riskestimations of the ICRP and own measurements, the probability is about 1:25,000 in angiography. For x-ray examination of the stomach-duodenum, the small bowl, and the colon the radiation risk is approximatively 1:300,000 to 1:800,000. The probability to provoque radiation induced mutations, manifesting themselves in future children or grandchildren, is quite similair for male patients. On the other hand the risk for future children and grandchildren of female patients is a bit higher. An exception is the roentgenexamination of the colon, because direct exposure of the testes is in general inevitable.", "PMID": 451438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9654", "title": "[Microdocumentation of x-ray film via the \"linear system\" (author's transl)].", "content": "The new Federal German Roentgen Law in operation for the last two years governs not only the proprietary rights in respect of x-ray documentation but also the obligation regarding its accountability. Similar regulations are in preparation in other European countries. Since the discussions on individual problems of maintaining and cataloguing x-ray films and on approaches towards solving the production of duplicates, are common knowledge, there is no need to go into them once again, not lease because of their complex nature. Nevertheless, these problems are touched upon in the present article in the manner of key words in order to illustrate to what extent the Linear System meets the requisite demands.", "contents": "[Microdocumentation of x-ray film via the \"linear system\" (author's transl)]. The new Federal German Roentgen Law in operation for the last two years governs not only the proprietary rights in respect of x-ray documentation but also the obligation regarding its accountability. Similar regulations are in preparation in other European countries. Since the discussions on individual problems of maintaining and cataloguing x-ray films and on approaches towards solving the production of duplicates, are common knowledge, there is no need to go into them once again, not lease because of their complex nature. Nevertheless, these problems are touched upon in the present article in the manner of key words in order to illustrate to what extent the Linear System meets the requisite demands.", "PMID": 451439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9655", "title": "Serum copper compared to erythrocyte sedimentation rate as indicator of disease activity in Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "Serum copper and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were recorded in 54 patients with active Hodgkin's disease and at 186 occasions in 78 patients during stable complete remission. Relatively high and age-dependent normal limits for erythrocyte sedimentation rate were used. Each of the tests was elevated in 70% of patients with active disease. During remission serum copper was elevated in 14% and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in 16.5% of the determinations. Thus the two tests are considered not far from equal in their ability to discriminate between presence and absence of specific disease activity in Hodgkin's disease. Simultaneous elevation during remission occurred in less than 5% of the recordings as compared to 61% during active disease. It is therefore concluded that serum copper level may be of some value as a supplement to erythrocyte sedimentation rate.", "contents": "Serum copper compared to erythrocyte sedimentation rate as indicator of disease activity in Hodgkin's disease. Serum copper and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were recorded in 54 patients with active Hodgkin's disease and at 186 occasions in 78 patients during stable complete remission. Relatively high and age-dependent normal limits for erythrocyte sedimentation rate were used. Each of the tests was elevated in 70% of patients with active disease. During remission serum copper was elevated in 14% and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in 16.5% of the determinations. Thus the two tests are considered not far from equal in their ability to discriminate between presence and absence of specific disease activity in Hodgkin's disease. Simultaneous elevation during remission occurred in less than 5% of the recordings as compared to 61% during active disease. It is therefore concluded that serum copper level may be of some value as a supplement to erythrocyte sedimentation rate.", "PMID": 451449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9656", "title": "Erythrocyte volume and count: a linear relation descriptive of population differences.", "content": "In a sample of 215 adult males the mean red cell volume decreases linearly with increasing red cell concentration. The mean corpuscular volume and the red cell count are found uncorrelated with age of subject. Of these subjects 69 are identified as smokers and 114 as nonsmokers. Linear regression analysis shows negative linear relation for the smoking-defined groups, with slopes judged to be no different. When the regression lines are constrained to be parallel the line for smokers is displaced upward by 2.7 fl. No difference is found in mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration or reticulocyte count. Haematocrit, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin are also reported. Viscosity of blood is greater in smokers. Optical determination of cell volume and area confirms the linear relation of volume and count.", "contents": "Erythrocyte volume and count: a linear relation descriptive of population differences. In a sample of 215 adult males the mean red cell volume decreases linearly with increasing red cell concentration. The mean corpuscular volume and the red cell count are found uncorrelated with age of subject. Of these subjects 69 are identified as smokers and 114 as nonsmokers. Linear regression analysis shows negative linear relation for the smoking-defined groups, with slopes judged to be no different. When the regression lines are constrained to be parallel the line for smokers is displaced upward by 2.7 fl. No difference is found in mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration or reticulocyte count. Haematocrit, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin are also reported. Viscosity of blood is greater in smokers. Optical determination of cell volume and area confirms the linear relation of volume and count.", "PMID": 451450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9657", "title": "Evidence against collagen activation of platelet-associated factor XI as a mechanism for initiating intrinsic clotting.", "content": "Collagen activation of platelet-associated Factor XI has been proposed as a mechanism for initiating intrinsic clotting independent of Factor XII. Since this could explain the lack of bleeding in patients with hereditary Factor XII deficiency, prekallikrein deficiency and high molecular weight kininogen deficiency, we subjected the hypothesis to rigorous testing. Incubation of isolated platelets with collagen and calcium ions failed to generate activity shortening the clotting time of an activated Factor XI (XIa) assay that had been modified to eliminate effects due to platelet-associated activated Factor V. Nor could generation of traces of Factor XIa in such mixtures be detected by incubation with purified Factor IX and testing for the generation of activated Factor IX (IXa) in clotting and amidolytic assays. Moreover, when blood or platelet-rich plasma containing added 125I-Factor IX was incubated with calcium ions and collagen and then subjected to reduced sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the radioactivity profiles revealed only native 125I-Factor IX without evidence of the polypeptide chains of Factor IXa. The negative results of this study mitigate against the hypothesis that collagen activation of platelet-associated Factor XI represents a physiologically significant mechanism for initiating clotting independent of Factor XII.", "contents": "Evidence against collagen activation of platelet-associated factor XI as a mechanism for initiating intrinsic clotting. Collagen activation of platelet-associated Factor XI has been proposed as a mechanism for initiating intrinsic clotting independent of Factor XII. Since this could explain the lack of bleeding in patients with hereditary Factor XII deficiency, prekallikrein deficiency and high molecular weight kininogen deficiency, we subjected the hypothesis to rigorous testing. Incubation of isolated platelets with collagen and calcium ions failed to generate activity shortening the clotting time of an activated Factor XI (XIa) assay that had been modified to eliminate effects due to platelet-associated activated Factor V. Nor could generation of traces of Factor XIa in such mixtures be detected by incubation with purified Factor IX and testing for the generation of activated Factor IX (IXa) in clotting and amidolytic assays. Moreover, when blood or platelet-rich plasma containing added 125I-Factor IX was incubated with calcium ions and collagen and then subjected to reduced sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the radioactivity profiles revealed only native 125I-Factor IX without evidence of the polypeptide chains of Factor IXa. The negative results of this study mitigate against the hypothesis that collagen activation of platelet-associated Factor XI represents a physiologically significant mechanism for initiating clotting independent of Factor XII.", "PMID": 451451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9658", "title": "Hexokinase deficiency in erythrocytes: a new variant in 5 members of a Finnish family.", "content": "15 cases of congenital haemolytic anaemia have thus far been attributed to hexokinase (HK) deficiency in erythrocytes. We report some clinical, biochemical and genetic findings from 5 members of a Finnish family with this deficiency. The proband, a 1-year-old girl, was the only patient with anaemia. All subjects had either mild or marked reticulocytosis. Red cell ATP levels were at the lower range of normal in all subjects and 2,3-DPG was abnormally low in one. The activities of red cell enzymes, other than HK, were within or above the normal range, respectively. The Km-values for glucose and fructose were elevated (ATP normal) in the subjects with HK deficiency. We speculate that the family represents heterozygosity of a mutant allele and that there is phenotypic variation associated with the HK mutant. The locus might be subject to mutations which lead to a variety of HK variants and to a spectrum of diseases. This point of view is in accordance with the overwhelming variation of reaction kinetics and metabolic effects of this and other reported cases.", "contents": "Hexokinase deficiency in erythrocytes: a new variant in 5 members of a Finnish family. 15 cases of congenital haemolytic anaemia have thus far been attributed to hexokinase (HK) deficiency in erythrocytes. We report some clinical, biochemical and genetic findings from 5 members of a Finnish family with this deficiency. The proband, a 1-year-old girl, was the only patient with anaemia. All subjects had either mild or marked reticulocytosis. Red cell ATP levels were at the lower range of normal in all subjects and 2,3-DPG was abnormally low in one. The activities of red cell enzymes, other than HK, were within or above the normal range, respectively. The Km-values for glucose and fructose were elevated (ATP normal) in the subjects with HK deficiency. We speculate that the family represents heterozygosity of a mutant allele and that there is phenotypic variation associated with the HK mutant. The locus might be subject to mutations which lead to a variety of HK variants and to a spectrum of diseases. This point of view is in accordance with the overwhelming variation of reaction kinetics and metabolic effects of this and other reported cases.", "PMID": 451452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9659", "title": "Retention in glass bead columns as a measure of leucocyte adhesiveness. II. Influence of platelets and erythrocytes.", "content": "The influence of platelets and erythrocytes on the retention of leucocytes in glass bead columns was studied. Leucocyte retention increased when platelet retention was stimulated by the presence of erythrocytes. In the presence of only a few erythrocytes, platelet retention was low, and platelets did not influence leucocyte retention. When only a small number of platelets was present, erythrocytes inhibited leucocyte retention. The platelet-dependent leucocyte retention increased as the volume passed through the columns was increased. However, the platelet-independent leucocyte retention did not change when the sample size was increased. In blood from patient with thrombocytopenia or defect in platelet function and in normal blood treated with inhibitor of platelet adhesion, neutrophil retention was reduced. However, erythrocyte-free leucocyte suspensions from these cases showed normal leucocyte retention. Thus, experiments with whole blood may serve as a model for the study of platelet-leucocyte interaction. However, for the study of leucocyte adhesiveness per se, isolated leucocytes seem more suitable than whole blood.", "contents": "Retention in glass bead columns as a measure of leucocyte adhesiveness. II. Influence of platelets and erythrocytes. The influence of platelets and erythrocytes on the retention of leucocytes in glass bead columns was studied. Leucocyte retention increased when platelet retention was stimulated by the presence of erythrocytes. In the presence of only a few erythrocytes, platelet retention was low, and platelets did not influence leucocyte retention. When only a small number of platelets was present, erythrocytes inhibited leucocyte retention. The platelet-dependent leucocyte retention increased as the volume passed through the columns was increased. However, the platelet-independent leucocyte retention did not change when the sample size was increased. In blood from patient with thrombocytopenia or defect in platelet function and in normal blood treated with inhibitor of platelet adhesion, neutrophil retention was reduced. However, erythrocyte-free leucocyte suspensions from these cases showed normal leucocyte retention. Thus, experiments with whole blood may serve as a model for the study of platelet-leucocyte interaction. However, for the study of leucocyte adhesiveness per se, isolated leucocytes seem more suitable than whole blood.", "PMID": 451453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9660", "title": "Fatal iron intoxication with multiple coagulation defects and degradation of factor VIII and factor XIII.", "content": "A severe iron intoxication in a 15-year-old girl resulted in profound damage to vital organs and multiple clotting defects, but no haemorrhagic diathesis. Investigation revealed not only impaired synthesis of coagulation factors but also abnormal proteolysis by plasmin as well as by other proteolytic enzymes liberated from leucocytes and damaged tissue cells affecting especially factor VIII and factor XIII.", "contents": "Fatal iron intoxication with multiple coagulation defects and degradation of factor VIII and factor XIII. A severe iron intoxication in a 15-year-old girl resulted in profound damage to vital organs and multiple clotting defects, but no haemorrhagic diathesis. Investigation revealed not only impaired synthesis of coagulation factors but also abnormal proteolysis by plasmin as well as by other proteolytic enzymes liberated from leucocytes and damaged tissue cells affecting especially factor VIII and factor XIII.", "PMID": 451454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9661", "title": "Serum erythrocyte folate levels in thalassaemic patients in Thailand.", "content": "The mean serum and adjusted red cell folate levels, as measured by microassay using Lactobacillus casei, respectively were 8.87 +/- SD 3.28 microgram/l and 436 +/- SD 107 microgram/l in 76 normal subjects, 4.22 +/- SD 2.70 microgram/l and 182 +/- SD 114 microgram/l in 55 patients with beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease and 6.36 +/- SD 2.95 microgram/l and 320 +/- 158 microgram/l in 37 patients with Hb H disease. The mean serum and adjusted red cell folate values of the patients with beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease and the mean serum folate value of the patients with Hb H disease were significantly lower than those of the normal subjects (P less than 0.001). 33% of the beta-thalassaemia/Hb E patients and 8% of the Hb H patients showed low serum folate levels (less than 3 microgram/l) whereas 84% of the former and 45% of the latter showed low adjusted red cell folate levels (less than 270 microgram/l). The group of beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease with low serum folate levels had lower mean haemoglobin concentration and lower mean adjusted red cell folate level than the group with normal serum folate levels. Since the Thai diets have high folate content, the observed low serum and erythrocyte folate levels in thalassaemic patients most likely occur from massively increased erythropoiesis. Folate, 5 mg/d, is now routinely prescribed to such patients especially to those with severe anaemia.", "contents": "Serum erythrocyte folate levels in thalassaemic patients in Thailand. The mean serum and adjusted red cell folate levels, as measured by microassay using Lactobacillus casei, respectively were 8.87 +/- SD 3.28 microgram/l and 436 +/- SD 107 microgram/l in 76 normal subjects, 4.22 +/- SD 2.70 microgram/l and 182 +/- SD 114 microgram/l in 55 patients with beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease and 6.36 +/- SD 2.95 microgram/l and 320 +/- 158 microgram/l in 37 patients with Hb H disease. The mean serum and adjusted red cell folate values of the patients with beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease and the mean serum folate value of the patients with Hb H disease were significantly lower than those of the normal subjects (P less than 0.001). 33% of the beta-thalassaemia/Hb E patients and 8% of the Hb H patients showed low serum folate levels (less than 3 microgram/l) whereas 84% of the former and 45% of the latter showed low adjusted red cell folate levels (less than 270 microgram/l). The group of beta-thalassaemia/Hb E disease with low serum folate levels had lower mean haemoglobin concentration and lower mean adjusted red cell folate level than the group with normal serum folate levels. Since the Thai diets have high folate content, the observed low serum and erythrocyte folate levels in thalassaemic patients most likely occur from massively increased erythropoiesis. Folate, 5 mg/d, is now routinely prescribed to such patients especially to those with severe anaemia.", "PMID": 451455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9662", "title": "The proliferative states of circulating granulopoietic stem cells in man.", "content": "The fraction of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming cells (CFC) in DNA synthetic phase in blood from 25 normal adults and those in blood and bone marrow from 8 haematologically normal subjects were evaluated by in vitro culture of cells with and without prior exposure to 3H-thymidine (12.5 muCi) for 1 h at 37 degrees C. The exposure of blood cells from normal adults to 3H-thymidine resulted in 26 +/- 10% reduction in colony formation and in 14 +/- 10% reduction in cluster formation. There was no difference in the magnitude of reduction in colony formation following exposure to 3H-thymidine by cells in blood and those in bone marrow in 6 of the 8 haematologically normal subjects. These findings indicated that about one fourth of the circulating CFC in normal adults are in proliferative state and that significant difference in proliferative states between CFC in blood and those in bone marrow probably does not exist in the majority of haematologically normal subjects.", "contents": "The proliferative states of circulating granulopoietic stem cells in man. The fraction of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming cells (CFC) in DNA synthetic phase in blood from 25 normal adults and those in blood and bone marrow from 8 haematologically normal subjects were evaluated by in vitro culture of cells with and without prior exposure to 3H-thymidine (12.5 muCi) for 1 h at 37 degrees C. The exposure of blood cells from normal adults to 3H-thymidine resulted in 26 +/- 10% reduction in colony formation and in 14 +/- 10% reduction in cluster formation. There was no difference in the magnitude of reduction in colony formation following exposure to 3H-thymidine by cells in blood and those in bone marrow in 6 of the 8 haematologically normal subjects. These findings indicated that about one fourth of the circulating CFC in normal adults are in proliferative state and that significant difference in proliferative states between CFC in blood and those in bone marrow probably does not exist in the majority of haematologically normal subjects.", "PMID": 451456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9663", "title": "Red cell inclusion bodies in a case of preleukaemia.", "content": "A 26-year-old female patient is reported in whom red cell inclusion bodies (Hb-H) and thrombocytopenia appeared more than 5 years before the emergence of atypical chr. myeloid leukaemia. Attention is drawn to the fact that the recently uncovered mechanism of acquisition of Hb-H (absence of transcription of specific genes) has previously been implicated in other biochemical changes typical of leukaemia.", "contents": "Red cell inclusion bodies in a case of preleukaemia. A 26-year-old female patient is reported in whom red cell inclusion bodies (Hb-H) and thrombocytopenia appeared more than 5 years before the emergence of atypical chr. myeloid leukaemia. Attention is drawn to the fact that the recently uncovered mechanism of acquisition of Hb-H (absence of transcription of specific genes) has previously been implicated in other biochemical changes typical of leukaemia.", "PMID": 451457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9664", "title": "A platelet defect in a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia: absent ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation associated with a reduced platelet sialic acid content.", "content": "Platelets from a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia were not aggregated by ristocetin. The defect was not corrected by normal human plasma and was due to a platelet abnormality. The patient's platelets also showed a diminished sensitivity to aggregation by bovine factor VIIIVWF. The defect was not associated with a prolonged bleeding time. No abnormalities were detected in ADP, collagen or thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. Biochemical studies showed that the platelets were deficient in sialic acid. This deficiency was associated with a reduced staining for glycoprotein I following SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The results suggest an acquired platelet surface abnormality.", "contents": "A platelet defect in a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia: absent ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation associated with a reduced platelet sialic acid content. Platelets from a patient with eosinophilic leukaemia were not aggregated by ristocetin. The defect was not corrected by normal human plasma and was due to a platelet abnormality. The patient's platelets also showed a diminished sensitivity to aggregation by bovine factor VIIIVWF. The defect was not associated with a prolonged bleeding time. No abnormalities were detected in ADP, collagen or thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. Biochemical studies showed that the platelets were deficient in sialic acid. This deficiency was associated with a reduced staining for glycoprotein I following SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The results suggest an acquired platelet surface abnormality.", "PMID": 451458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9665", "title": "Acute renal insufficiency occurring during intravenous desferrioxamine therapy.", "content": "A patient of 14 years suffering from secondary haemosiderosis and thalassaemia major was treated with i.v. desferrioxamine in doses up to 3 g/d. Urine iron loss ranged from 46-158 mg/d. Despite improvement in cardiac and hepatic status the patient developed acute renal insufficiency of the pre renal type. The possible role of desferrioxamine in this complication is discussed. Desferrioxamine given s.c. or i.v. effects a marked urinary iron loss but its use may not be without significant complications.", "contents": "Acute renal insufficiency occurring during intravenous desferrioxamine therapy. A patient of 14 years suffering from secondary haemosiderosis and thalassaemia major was treated with i.v. desferrioxamine in doses up to 3 g/d. Urine iron loss ranged from 46-158 mg/d. Despite improvement in cardiac and hepatic status the patient developed acute renal insufficiency of the pre renal type. The possible role of desferrioxamine in this complication is discussed. Desferrioxamine given s.c. or i.v. effects a marked urinary iron loss but its use may not be without significant complications.", "PMID": 451459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9666", "title": "Analysis of reasons and locations of burns on hands.", "content": "During the period 1971-76, 1055 patients with fresh burns were treated at our hospital. Of these, 461 (88 females, 373 males) had sustained burns on altogether 783 hands. This amounts to 45% of the total number of fresh burns. In 322 cases both hands were involved, amounting to 31% of all cases of fresh burns, or 70% of all patients with burned hands. Whereas 82% of patients with hand burns had injuries to both hands, only 10% had sustained an injury to the right hand alone and 8% to the left hand alone. Cases of burns limited to the hands alone accounted for only 4.7% of all burn injuries. The main cause of burn injuries was thermal accident--most often steam explosions and the spraying of scalding liquids. The total number of hands injured by thermal agents totalled 707, i.e. 90% of all burned hands. Most of these were deep skin burns. Chemical agents were mainly responsible for this type of burn, whereas electrical burns were chiefly full thickness skin injuries. Analysis of the location of burns showed that 643 (82%) hands of the altogether 783 injuries sustained involved the wrist, 620 (79%) the metacarpus, 684 (87%) of the fingers. Some 321 hand burns (41%) were of a circumferential nature. A majority of burned hands were injured on the dorsal surface. The burn injuries of hands in 246 (53%) persons were connected with their professional work.", "contents": "Analysis of reasons and locations of burns on hands. During the period 1971-76, 1055 patients with fresh burns were treated at our hospital. Of these, 461 (88 females, 373 males) had sustained burns on altogether 783 hands. This amounts to 45% of the total number of fresh burns. In 322 cases both hands were involved, amounting to 31% of all cases of fresh burns, or 70% of all patients with burned hands. Whereas 82% of patients with hand burns had injuries to both hands, only 10% had sustained an injury to the right hand alone and 8% to the left hand alone. Cases of burns limited to the hands alone accounted for only 4.7% of all burn injuries. The main cause of burn injuries was thermal accident--most often steam explosions and the spraying of scalding liquids. The total number of hands injured by thermal agents totalled 707, i.e. 90% of all burned hands. Most of these were deep skin burns. Chemical agents were mainly responsible for this type of burn, whereas electrical burns were chiefly full thickness skin injuries. Analysis of the location of burns showed that 643 (82%) hands of the altogether 783 injuries sustained involved the wrist, 620 (79%) the metacarpus, 684 (87%) of the fingers. Some 321 hand burns (41%) were of a circumferential nature. A majority of burned hands were injured on the dorsal surface. The burn injuries of hands in 246 (53%) persons were connected with their professional work.", "PMID": 451461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9667", "title": "Tattooing, a new hope for secondary leukoderma.", "content": "A 10-year material of 1,000 post-burn patients have been reviewed. Dyschromia was found to be one of the commonest post-burn sequelae in both partial thickness and superficial burn. Patches of leukoderma surrounded by a zone of hyperpigmentation was the main feature in partial thickness burn, while hyperpigmentation follows superficial burn. Tattooing was tried on 30 patients as a permanent camouflage for leukodermic patches in exposed areas. Histological studies on 7 volunteers were carried out, showing the histological pattern of dyschromia and tattooing. The trial proved to be a success, though it still needs further refinement and improvement.", "contents": "Tattooing, a new hope for secondary leukoderma. A 10-year material of 1,000 post-burn patients have been reviewed. Dyschromia was found to be one of the commonest post-burn sequelae in both partial thickness and superficial burn. Patches of leukoderma surrounded by a zone of hyperpigmentation was the main feature in partial thickness burn, while hyperpigmentation follows superficial burn. Tattooing was tried on 30 patients as a permanent camouflage for leukodermic patches in exposed areas. Histological studies on 7 volunteers were carried out, showing the histological pattern of dyschromia and tattooing. The trial proved to be a success, though it still needs further refinement and improvement.", "PMID": 451462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9668", "title": "Induced ischemia: means of prediction of demarcation line of necrosis after electrical injury. An experimental study on rabbit ear.", "content": "Necrosis due to an electrical injury extends by progressive obstruction of blood vessels. Means of inhibiting expansion of necrosis and predicting early the demarcation line after an electric injury were studied in the local electric injury of a rabbit ear produced by application of an electric current of 50 Hz, 1800 V for 1 sec between the right ear and the right posterior leg. Although no effective method of inhibiting expansion of necrosis was obtained, a method of predicting a demarcation line of necrosis was obtained by inducing ischemia of the ear early after the application of an electric current. From three hours to three days after the application of the electric current, ischemia of the ear was induced by compressing it between a pair of blood pressure cuffs at a pressure of 300 mmHg. As a result, the area proximal to the expected demarcation line of necrosis became white by ischemia, while the peripheral part remained dark red because of thrombi, and the expected demarcation line was clearly observed. Two to three weeks after the application of the electric current, the ear almost invariably fell off at this expected line. Therefore, in the electric injury of the hand, it can be distinguished clinically whether or not the area will become necrotic by inducing ischemia from the tips of the fingers to the upper arm early after the electric injury.", "contents": "Induced ischemia: means of prediction of demarcation line of necrosis after electrical injury. An experimental study on rabbit ear. Necrosis due to an electrical injury extends by progressive obstruction of blood vessels. Means of inhibiting expansion of necrosis and predicting early the demarcation line after an electric injury were studied in the local electric injury of a rabbit ear produced by application of an electric current of 50 Hz, 1800 V for 1 sec between the right ear and the right posterior leg. Although no effective method of inhibiting expansion of necrosis was obtained, a method of predicting a demarcation line of necrosis was obtained by inducing ischemia of the ear early after the application of an electric current. From three hours to three days after the application of the electric current, ischemia of the ear was induced by compressing it between a pair of blood pressure cuffs at a pressure of 300 mmHg. As a result, the area proximal to the expected demarcation line of necrosis became white by ischemia, while the peripheral part remained dark red because of thrombi, and the expected demarcation line was clearly observed. Two to three weeks after the application of the electric current, the ear almost invariably fell off at this expected line. Therefore, in the electric injury of the hand, it can be distinguished clinically whether or not the area will become necrotic by inducing ischemia from the tips of the fingers to the upper arm early after the electric injury.", "PMID": 451463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9669", "title": "Use of the low air loss bed system in treatment of burns patients.", "content": "When a person is confined to bed, whatever the reason, small areas of soft tissues are compressed between the skeleton and the supporting surfaces. Transient circulatory disturbances resulting in epidermis to dermis damage or finally deep penetrating necrosis involving subcutaneous tissues, fascia muscle and bone may result. In the case of the severely burned patient who has already sustained gross trauma, any further destruction of tissues is to be avoided at all costs. The Low Air Loss Bed System offers many advantages in the care and management of the burns patient. There is a definite saving of nursing time by rendering unnecessary constant attention to the patient for preventative skin care, positioning, bed pan etc. The nurse is then able to devote her time positively to the more involved needs of the patient and family. It will also provide for periods of rest that are so often lacking, especially in the initial stages of treatment. The patient does not have to be kept on a rigid regime of Q2H turning. He is turned only for wound care, physio- and general body cleansing. His position may be contoured without having to touch him circumferentially. Any lifting and positioning necessary is easier for staff members due to the design of the unit, and more comfortable for the patient. Over a period of two years, eighteen patients with varying extent and degree of burn injuries were treated on the bed. This paper will describe the mechanical operation of the bed and experiences with nursing management and monitoring of the system.", "contents": "Use of the low air loss bed system in treatment of burns patients. When a person is confined to bed, whatever the reason, small areas of soft tissues are compressed between the skeleton and the supporting surfaces. Transient circulatory disturbances resulting in epidermis to dermis damage or finally deep penetrating necrosis involving subcutaneous tissues, fascia muscle and bone may result. In the case of the severely burned patient who has already sustained gross trauma, any further destruction of tissues is to be avoided at all costs. The Low Air Loss Bed System offers many advantages in the care and management of the burns patient. There is a definite saving of nursing time by rendering unnecessary constant attention to the patient for preventative skin care, positioning, bed pan etc. The nurse is then able to devote her time positively to the more involved needs of the patient and family. It will also provide for periods of rest that are so often lacking, especially in the initial stages of treatment. The patient does not have to be kept on a rigid regime of Q2H turning. He is turned only for wound care, physio- and general body cleansing. His position may be contoured without having to touch him circumferentially. Any lifting and positioning necessary is easier for staff members due to the design of the unit, and more comfortable for the patient. Over a period of two years, eighteen patients with varying extent and degree of burn injuries were treated on the bed. This paper will describe the mechanical operation of the bed and experiences with nursing management and monitoring of the system.", "PMID": 451464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9670", "title": "A strong hospital-school liaison: a necessity for good rehabilitation planning for disfigured children.", "content": "Next to the family, the school exerts the most influence on a child's normal development and social adjustment. Discharge planning for a child who has been burned must properly involve school teachers and guidance counselors as well as parents. Ideally, the hospital social worker initiates contact with school personnel in much the same way she does the patient's family. She identifies many of the same emotions (grief, fear, anger, and denial) which can affect the ability of the teacher to cope with the new responsibilities and demands imposed on him in receiving a burn scarred child in the classroom. The new federal law in the United States provides guidelines for providing services to handicapped children, but the school staff must be emotionally and psychologically prepared in order for the goals of the law to be achieved. The burn unit social worker is best prepared to carry out this very sensitive and important aspect of planning for a successful reentry, and whenever possible works closely with the hospital school teacher who is cognizant of special education services and the school system's ability to provide them. Case studies are presented showing the impact of both short and long term intervention with the school.", "contents": "A strong hospital-school liaison: a necessity for good rehabilitation planning for disfigured children. Next to the family, the school exerts the most influence on a child's normal development and social adjustment. Discharge planning for a child who has been burned must properly involve school teachers and guidance counselors as well as parents. Ideally, the hospital social worker initiates contact with school personnel in much the same way she does the patient's family. She identifies many of the same emotions (grief, fear, anger, and denial) which can affect the ability of the teacher to cope with the new responsibilities and demands imposed on him in receiving a burn scarred child in the classroom. The new federal law in the United States provides guidelines for providing services to handicapped children, but the school staff must be emotionally and psychologically prepared in order for the goals of the law to be achieved. The burn unit social worker is best prepared to carry out this very sensitive and important aspect of planning for a successful reentry, and whenever possible works closely with the hospital school teacher who is cognizant of special education services and the school system's ability to provide them. Case studies are presented showing the impact of both short and long term intervention with the school.", "PMID": 451465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9671", "title": "Group meetings benefit families of burned children.", "content": "Recognition must be given to the continuing burden carried by parents of children who have been discharged from a burns hospital. Weekly parents' meetings under the direction of social workers are offered during clinic hours in an effort to maintain support and offer guidance. Unlike other therapeutic groups, these parents are not screened by interests, background or age. Their only common denominator is that of having a severely burned child. Also, unlike other groups, the participants change each week, depending on the clinic schedule. However, despite the lack of continuity in participation, the parents have come to know that by returning to the group at any time, they can find help and understanding and often receive renewed strength for coping. It is interesting to note that the same problems recur in the meetings' content: 1) Adjustment of the home schedule immediately following discharge in order to deal with the demands of the children and the time required for skin care, 2) parents' tendency to project their guilt by over-protecting the children, 3) adolescent problems stemming from burn scars affecting body image and self-esteem, 4) changes in marital relationships. Often, parents of children who are still in the acute stage attend these meetings and take their first cautious steps toward facing the future supported by \"those who have been there\". All learn that this is an hour when they may freely question, share feelings, and leave knowing they are supported and not alone.", "contents": "Group meetings benefit families of burned children. Recognition must be given to the continuing burden carried by parents of children who have been discharged from a burns hospital. Weekly parents' meetings under the direction of social workers are offered during clinic hours in an effort to maintain support and offer guidance. Unlike other therapeutic groups, these parents are not screened by interests, background or age. Their only common denominator is that of having a severely burned child. Also, unlike other groups, the participants change each week, depending on the clinic schedule. However, despite the lack of continuity in participation, the parents have come to know that by returning to the group at any time, they can find help and understanding and often receive renewed strength for coping. It is interesting to note that the same problems recur in the meetings' content: 1) Adjustment of the home schedule immediately following discharge in order to deal with the demands of the children and the time required for skin care, 2) parents' tendency to project their guilt by over-protecting the children, 3) adolescent problems stemming from burn scars affecting body image and self-esteem, 4) changes in marital relationships. Often, parents of children who are still in the acute stage attend these meetings and take their first cautious steps toward facing the future supported by \"those who have been there\". All learn that this is an hour when they may freely question, share feelings, and leave knowing they are supported and not alone.", "PMID": 451466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9672", "title": "Rehabilitating families with burned children.", "content": "A critical factor in the successful or unsuccessful life adjustment of the badly burned patient is his family's reaction to this chronic problem, its ability to support him, and to help him pursue the long course of treatment and its many associated problems, and to also help him navigate the social world into which he must go. The high incidence of emotional disturbance in families sustaining burn injuries makes it vital to deal effectively and in a sustained manner to assess the types of emotional disturbances which exist in these families and to see how they influence the responses to the injuries and to the long and arduous treatments that follow. Different patterns of adaptation occur, some much related to economic class and special types of psychiatric disorder in the family. Some reactions of chronic grief and intermittent helplessness and hopelessness may transcent all groups, but the ability to follow through in later care varies enormously, and is correlated with the overt depression of the mother. Several types of reaction are epitomized in the cases presented, along with directives for their management, and the interplay of social, somatic, and psychological factors which lead to these patterns will be delineated.", "contents": "Rehabilitating families with burned children. A critical factor in the successful or unsuccessful life adjustment of the badly burned patient is his family's reaction to this chronic problem, its ability to support him, and to help him pursue the long course of treatment and its many associated problems, and to also help him navigate the social world into which he must go. The high incidence of emotional disturbance in families sustaining burn injuries makes it vital to deal effectively and in a sustained manner to assess the types of emotional disturbances which exist in these families and to see how they influence the responses to the injuries and to the long and arduous treatments that follow. Different patterns of adaptation occur, some much related to economic class and special types of psychiatric disorder in the family. Some reactions of chronic grief and intermittent helplessness and hopelessness may transcent all groups, but the ability to follow through in later care varies enormously, and is correlated with the overt depression of the mother. Several types of reaction are epitomized in the cases presented, along with directives for their management, and the interplay of social, somatic, and psychological factors which lead to these patterns will be delineated.", "PMID": 451467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9673", "title": "Unreasonable expectations of reconstructive patients affecting rehabilitation.", "content": "Common difficult and recurring problems develop which make the demands of certain cosmetic surgical patients appear reasonable or not reasonable to the people operating upon them. In spite of careful preparation and repeated instruction, a number of patients continue to entertain fixed and elusive ideas about themselves, their body images, and the results they desire from surgery. These wishes are often not logical, and derive from personal experiences of the patients, and are not related to the actual degree of deformity or the objective reactions that other people have to these defects. while it is generally true that more gross deformities force a more realistic perspective upon the patients and their families in contrast to many normal-looking persons who seek cosmetic surgery, this is not always the case. The authors attempt to examine and describe several specific cases of these problems, along with the psychological mechanisms which underlie them, and present possible ways in which such behavior can be managed by the aesthetic surgeon. An attempt is also intended to be as practical as possible about the use of the busy surgeon's time in these situations.", "contents": "Unreasonable expectations of reconstructive patients affecting rehabilitation. Common difficult and recurring problems develop which make the demands of certain cosmetic surgical patients appear reasonable or not reasonable to the people operating upon them. In spite of careful preparation and repeated instruction, a number of patients continue to entertain fixed and elusive ideas about themselves, their body images, and the results they desire from surgery. These wishes are often not logical, and derive from personal experiences of the patients, and are not related to the actual degree of deformity or the objective reactions that other people have to these defects. while it is generally true that more gross deformities force a more realistic perspective upon the patients and their families in contrast to many normal-looking persons who seek cosmetic surgery, this is not always the case. The authors attempt to examine and describe several specific cases of these problems, along with the psychological mechanisms which underlie them, and present possible ways in which such behavior can be managed by the aesthetic surgeon. An attempt is also intended to be as practical as possible about the use of the busy surgeon's time in these situations.", "PMID": 451468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9674", "title": "Public and professional reactions to the facially disfigured which interfere with rehabilitation.", "content": "The rare appearance in public and the difficulty in obtaining follow-ups indicate the general tendency of facially disfigured people toward seclusion and restriction of their work lives and social functioning. Investigation of some of the reactions in the community, the underlying mental mechanisms, and the ways in which the nurses, doctors, and teachers they meet lead to the awareness of the ways in which professional and public attitudes may function synergistically against the rehabilitation and optimal functioning of these patients. The innate and biological mechanisms which cause observers of the disfigured to react with alarm, fear, rejection, and withdrawal are examined, as also are the ways in which professional attitudes differ, and how professional attitudes evolve. The variables of authoritarianism, friendliness, and the ways in which caretakers perceive and manage people in deviant roles in order to advance their rehabilitation will be explored and illustrated with case examples. Techniques for educating doctors and nurses about handling disfigurement in the complex matrix of modern medical care will be outlined, with emphasis upon comprehensive care and the emerging concepts of a case manager system of care in the handling of these chronic and tragic problems.", "contents": "Public and professional reactions to the facially disfigured which interfere with rehabilitation. The rare appearance in public and the difficulty in obtaining follow-ups indicate the general tendency of facially disfigured people toward seclusion and restriction of their work lives and social functioning. Investigation of some of the reactions in the community, the underlying mental mechanisms, and the ways in which the nurses, doctors, and teachers they meet lead to the awareness of the ways in which professional and public attitudes may function synergistically against the rehabilitation and optimal functioning of these patients. The innate and biological mechanisms which cause observers of the disfigured to react with alarm, fear, rejection, and withdrawal are examined, as also are the ways in which professional attitudes differ, and how professional attitudes evolve. The variables of authoritarianism, friendliness, and the ways in which caretakers perceive and manage people in deviant roles in order to advance their rehabilitation will be explored and illustrated with case examples. Techniques for educating doctors and nurses about handling disfigurement in the complex matrix of modern medical care will be outlined, with emphasis upon comprehensive care and the emerging concepts of a case manager system of care in the handling of these chronic and tragic problems.", "PMID": 451469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9675", "title": "Local and systemic changes of acid proteinases during advanced stages of burn injuries.", "content": "Rats were subjected to burns extending to 15% of their body surface. Enzyme activities were measured by a slightly modified Barrett technique between the 12th and 18th day after the burn injury. A statistically significant activation of acid proteolytic enzymes, in relation to mg protein, was seen in liver, spleen, kidney and stomach. In relation to grams fresh weight, an activation was seen in the kidney. Necrotic skin subsequent to burn injury showed a marked rise in activation compared with the skin of the control group, as well as with the skin of the burned animals. Increased enzyme contents were also detected in the intact skin of burned animals, compared with the skin of the control group.", "contents": "Local and systemic changes of acid proteinases during advanced stages of burn injuries. Rats were subjected to burns extending to 15% of their body surface. Enzyme activities were measured by a slightly modified Barrett technique between the 12th and 18th day after the burn injury. A statistically significant activation of acid proteolytic enzymes, in relation to mg protein, was seen in liver, spleen, kidney and stomach. In relation to grams fresh weight, an activation was seen in the kidney. Necrotic skin subsequent to burn injury showed a marked rise in activation compared with the skin of the control group, as well as with the skin of the burned animals. Increased enzyme contents were also detected in the intact skin of burned animals, compared with the skin of the control group.", "PMID": 451470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9676", "title": "Acute renal failure in burns.", "content": "We present the combined experience of a burns unit and a renal dialysis unit in treating acute renal failure in burn injury patients. A total of 28 cases have been treated of whom 4 regained normal renal function. We would like to emphasize the following points which may improve the usually very poor prognosis: early diagnosis, early daily haemodialysis, adequate feeding and the early amputation of non viable limbs. A search of the literature reveals that only 11 previously reported cases of burns injury patients being successfully dialysed for acute renal failure.", "contents": "Acute renal failure in burns. We present the combined experience of a burns unit and a renal dialysis unit in treating acute renal failure in burn injury patients. A total of 28 cases have been treated of whom 4 regained normal renal function. We would like to emphasize the following points which may improve the usually very poor prognosis: early diagnosis, early daily haemodialysis, adequate feeding and the early amputation of non viable limbs. A search of the literature reveals that only 11 previously reported cases of burns injury patients being successfully dialysed for acute renal failure.", "PMID": 451471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9677", "title": "Comparison of methods of predicting burn mortality.", "content": "Recent suggestions that patients \"hopelessly burned\" be permitted to die peacefully have refocused attention on the accuracy of different methods of predicting whether an individual burn patient will survive. The purpose of this presentation is to compare the accuracy of mortality predictions based upon four different statistical methods: (1) Baux's rule which adds the patient's age in years to the percentage of his body surface area burned--the original assertion was that values over 75 meant a very poor prognosis. (2) probit analysis, (3) discriminant analysis, and (4) logistic risk function analysis. Each of these methods was applied to data for over three thousand consecutive admissions to St. Mary's Hospital Burn Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This data base and the four statistical models are described. Mortality predictions derived from the four models are compared, and some observations are made concerning the selection of an appropriate model for predicting burn mortality.", "contents": "Comparison of methods of predicting burn mortality. Recent suggestions that patients \"hopelessly burned\" be permitted to die peacefully have refocused attention on the accuracy of different methods of predicting whether an individual burn patient will survive. The purpose of this presentation is to compare the accuracy of mortality predictions based upon four different statistical methods: (1) Baux's rule which adds the patient's age in years to the percentage of his body surface area burned--the original assertion was that values over 75 meant a very poor prognosis. (2) probit analysis, (3) discriminant analysis, and (4) logistic risk function analysis. Each of these methods was applied to data for over three thousand consecutive admissions to St. Mary's Hospital Burn Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This data base and the four statistical models are described. Mortality predictions derived from the four models are compared, and some observations are made concerning the selection of an appropriate model for predicting burn mortality.", "PMID": 451472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9678", "title": "Toxin-specific ultrastructural alterations of the mouse liver after burn injuries and the possibility of a specific antitoxic therapy.", "content": "Electron-microscopic studies in mice revealed similar and comparable mitochondrial alterations of the liver cells 5-7 days after either a sublethal controlled burn injury or an i.p. injection of an equivalent dose of a burn toxin. Electron microscopy 5 days after i.p. application of different amounts of the burn toxin in rats showed that the extent of the liver alterations correlates directly to the applied dose (occurrence of: cristolysis--intramitochondrial vacuolization--total vacuolar changes of mitochondria(. Controls with the non-toxic/\"native\" compound isolated from normal skin or excision of a skin piece identical in size to the sublethal burn showed no ultrastructural changes in the liver of mice or rats. In a 2nd series of experiments the therapeutic effect of an antitoxic IgG raised in sheep was tested. The first 3 days after a standard burn or an i.p. injection of 15 mg burn toxin mice obtained 10 mg of the antitoxic IgG (2x/day). Controls injected with the \"native\" compound or excised as described were treated in the same way. The results showed a specific complete immunological protection from mitochondrial alterations by either the toxin or the burn injury. These results suggest the possibility of an antitoxic IgG-therapy in severe burns.", "contents": "Toxin-specific ultrastructural alterations of the mouse liver after burn injuries and the possibility of a specific antitoxic therapy. Electron-microscopic studies in mice revealed similar and comparable mitochondrial alterations of the liver cells 5-7 days after either a sublethal controlled burn injury or an i.p. injection of an equivalent dose of a burn toxin. Electron microscopy 5 days after i.p. application of different amounts of the burn toxin in rats showed that the extent of the liver alterations correlates directly to the applied dose (occurrence of: cristolysis--intramitochondrial vacuolization--total vacuolar changes of mitochondria(. Controls with the non-toxic/\"native\" compound isolated from normal skin or excision of a skin piece identical in size to the sublethal burn showed no ultrastructural changes in the liver of mice or rats. In a 2nd series of experiments the therapeutic effect of an antitoxic IgG raised in sheep was tested. The first 3 days after a standard burn or an i.p. injection of 15 mg burn toxin mice obtained 10 mg of the antitoxic IgG (2x/day). Controls injected with the \"native\" compound or excised as described were treated in the same way. The results showed a specific complete immunological protection from mitochondrial alterations by either the toxin or the burn injury. These results suggest the possibility of an antitoxic IgG-therapy in severe burns.", "PMID": 451473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9679", "title": "Effect of cutaneous human or mouse burn toxin on the metabolic function of isolated liver cells.", "content": "Studies on isolated perfused rat livers 5 days after either a sublethal burn or an i.p. injection of human/mouse burn toxin showed a significant inhibition of the glucose/urea synthesis and the ATP production concomitantly with ultrastructural mitochondrial damages. A direct specific effect of these burn toxins on enzymatically isolated liver parenchyma cells was found either after direct incubation of the isolated cells with the compound or 5 days after injection of the toxin to the animals followed by the isolation of the cells. Control experiments were performed with the \"native\" non-toxic precursor from normal skin. Liver cells of rats pretreated with the toxin showed an 100% increase of the amino-acid release while this increase was 70% after direct toxin incubation. Glycogen synthesis from lactate, alanin and fructose was significantly decreased in both toxin groups while the glucose synthesis was not altered. The degree of the inhibition of the glycogen synthesis was directly correlated to the number of ATP-dependent metabolic steps. A disturbance of the oxygen transfer system by structural damages of the mitochondria seems to be the basic mechanism for these specific metabolic alterations due to ultrastructural mitochondrial damages.", "contents": "Effect of cutaneous human or mouse burn toxin on the metabolic function of isolated liver cells. Studies on isolated perfused rat livers 5 days after either a sublethal burn or an i.p. injection of human/mouse burn toxin showed a significant inhibition of the glucose/urea synthesis and the ATP production concomitantly with ultrastructural mitochondrial damages. A direct specific effect of these burn toxins on enzymatically isolated liver parenchyma cells was found either after direct incubation of the isolated cells with the compound or 5 days after injection of the toxin to the animals followed by the isolation of the cells. Control experiments were performed with the \"native\" non-toxic precursor from normal skin. Liver cells of rats pretreated with the toxin showed an 100% increase of the amino-acid release while this increase was 70% after direct toxin incubation. Glycogen synthesis from lactate, alanin and fructose was significantly decreased in both toxin groups while the glucose synthesis was not altered. The degree of the inhibition of the glycogen synthesis was directly correlated to the number of ATP-dependent metabolic steps. A disturbance of the oxygen transfer system by structural damages of the mitochondria seems to be the basic mechanism for these specific metabolic alterations due to ultrastructural mitochondrial damages.", "PMID": 451474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9680", "title": "Transcapillary transport after thermal injury.", "content": "The pathophysiology of the burn wound is characterized by an inflammatory reaction leading to rapid edema formation due to (1) dilatation of resistance vessels with increased effective transcapillary filtration pressure, (2) increased extravascular osmotic activity created in damaged tissue, and (3) increased microvascular permeability to macromolecules. In extensive burns increased microvascular permeability was found also in tissues remote from the thermal injury. These reactions are due to direct heat effect on the microvasculature and to chemical mediators of inflammation. Important is the increased biosynthesis of prostaglandins at the site of tissue injury which may partly explain vasodilatation, increased microvascular permeability and accumulation of polymorphonuclear leucocytes observed following thermal injury. The morphological interpretations of the changes in the functional ultrastructure of the blood-lymph barrier following thermal injury seem to be a remarkable and persistant increase in the numbers of vacuoles and many open endothelial intercellular junctions. Further less explored changes of the interstitial tissue after severe burn trauma seem to be of great importance.", "contents": "Transcapillary transport after thermal injury. The pathophysiology of the burn wound is characterized by an inflammatory reaction leading to rapid edema formation due to (1) dilatation of resistance vessels with increased effective transcapillary filtration pressure, (2) increased extravascular osmotic activity created in damaged tissue, and (3) increased microvascular permeability to macromolecules. In extensive burns increased microvascular permeability was found also in tissues remote from the thermal injury. These reactions are due to direct heat effect on the microvasculature and to chemical mediators of inflammation. Important is the increased biosynthesis of prostaglandins at the site of tissue injury which may partly explain vasodilatation, increased microvascular permeability and accumulation of polymorphonuclear leucocytes observed following thermal injury. The morphological interpretations of the changes in the functional ultrastructure of the blood-lymph barrier following thermal injury seem to be a remarkable and persistant increase in the numbers of vacuoles and many open endothelial intercellular junctions. Further less explored changes of the interstitial tissue after severe burn trauma seem to be of great importance.", "PMID": 451475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9681", "title": "Acute effect of scalding injury on blood flow in muscle and subcutaneous tissue in the paw of the anaesthetized dog.", "content": "Blood flow in muscle and subcutaneous tissue was studied before and after a scalding injury of the dog paw. The hydrogen clearance technique was used in anaesthetized dogs. As scalding of the paw resulted in an increased blood pressure and muscular movements, animals were given a muscle relaxant and ventilated artificially. Before scalding injury the blood flow was 29.8 and 19.7 ml per min per 100 g in muscular and subcutaneous tissue, respectively. After immersion of the paw for 10 sec in water of 100 degrees C the blood flow transiently increased and later decreased. No major changes were found in the contralateral paw. The decrease was most pronounced (50%) in subcutaneous tissue. In the acute situation the impeded circulation in the burn oedema may protect the organism from potentially harmful substances formed in the injured tissue.", "contents": "Acute effect of scalding injury on blood flow in muscle and subcutaneous tissue in the paw of the anaesthetized dog. Blood flow in muscle and subcutaneous tissue was studied before and after a scalding injury of the dog paw. The hydrogen clearance technique was used in anaesthetized dogs. As scalding of the paw resulted in an increased blood pressure and muscular movements, animals were given a muscle relaxant and ventilated artificially. Before scalding injury the blood flow was 29.8 and 19.7 ml per min per 100 g in muscular and subcutaneous tissue, respectively. After immersion of the paw for 10 sec in water of 100 degrees C the blood flow transiently increased and later decreased. No major changes were found in the contralateral paw. The decrease was most pronounced (50%) in subcutaneous tissue. In the acute situation the impeded circulation in the burn oedema may protect the organism from potentially harmful substances formed in the injured tissue.", "PMID": 451476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9682", "title": "Prostaglandins and thromboxanes in burn injury in man.", "content": "The main urine metabolite of prostaglandin F2 alpha (5 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-11-ketotetranor-phostane-1, 16-dioic acid, PGF-metabolite) was determined by mass spectrometry (MS) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) in burned patients treated under routine conditions. The amount of the PGF-metabolite as determined by MS was 130 and 67 microgram/24 h (normal value 24 +/- 17 microgram/24 h) on days 3 and 5 respectively in one patient. In serial determinations using RIA the urine level of the PGF-metabolite was within normal values during the first days and rose to a broad peak 1-4 weeks after the injury. Thromboxane B2 (TXB2) was identified and quantitated in burn blister fluid. The amount of TXB2 was 1.7 ng/ml.", "contents": "Prostaglandins and thromboxanes in burn injury in man. The main urine metabolite of prostaglandin F2 alpha (5 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-11-ketotetranor-phostane-1, 16-dioic acid, PGF-metabolite) was determined by mass spectrometry (MS) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) in burned patients treated under routine conditions. The amount of the PGF-metabolite as determined by MS was 130 and 67 microgram/24 h (normal value 24 +/- 17 microgram/24 h) on days 3 and 5 respectively in one patient. In serial determinations using RIA the urine level of the PGF-metabolite was within normal values during the first days and rose to a broad peak 1-4 weeks after the injury. Thromboxane B2 (TXB2) was identified and quantitated in burn blister fluid. The amount of TXB2 was 1.7 ng/ml.", "PMID": 451477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9683", "title": "Evaporative water loss in partial skin loss in the first 24 hours.", "content": "In experiments on laboratory pigs the healing of decorticated dermis and in deep dermal burns was studied. In both groups, the controls were left uncovered, while the experimental wounds were covered with an indifferent ointment for the first 24 hours only. After the first 24 hours all wounds were left exposed without further treatment. It was found, that wounds, covered by an indifferent ointment for the first twenty-four hours only penetrate to a lesser depth as compared to the uncovered controls; histological studies of the course of healing confirm this fact, as the wounds treated for the first 24 hours only heal one week earlier then the controls. The differences were more pronounced in burns than in mechanical decorticated wounds. The authors presume, that these facts underline the importance of evaporative water loss during the first 24 hours in deep dermal burns as well as the importance of local treatment at this initial stage.", "contents": "Evaporative water loss in partial skin loss in the first 24 hours. In experiments on laboratory pigs the healing of decorticated dermis and in deep dermal burns was studied. In both groups, the controls were left uncovered, while the experimental wounds were covered with an indifferent ointment for the first 24 hours only. After the first 24 hours all wounds were left exposed without further treatment. It was found, that wounds, covered by an indifferent ointment for the first twenty-four hours only penetrate to a lesser depth as compared to the uncovered controls; histological studies of the course of healing confirm this fact, as the wounds treated for the first 24 hours only heal one week earlier then the controls. The differences were more pronounced in burns than in mechanical decorticated wounds. The authors presume, that these facts underline the importance of evaporative water loss during the first 24 hours in deep dermal burns as well as the importance of local treatment at this initial stage.", "PMID": 451478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9684", "title": "Burn wound biopsy. Multiple uses in patient management.", "content": "It is often exceedingly difficult to initially evaluate the depth of a burn wound and thus inaugurate appropriate definitive therapy. The clinical picture of the burn would may not always correlate with the true histologic depth of the injury. For this reason we have undertaken a program of obtaining punch biopsies of burn wounds in patients where the depth of the burn wound is equivocal. In such cases the biopsy has proven to be useful in guiding subsequent therapy. In addition to establishing the anatomic depth of injury, there are several other valuable uses of burn wound biopsies. The other uses are: diagnosis of invasive infection, quantitative bacterial culture, medical-legal values, psychological values and forensic utility.", "contents": "Burn wound biopsy. Multiple uses in patient management. It is often exceedingly difficult to initially evaluate the depth of a burn wound and thus inaugurate appropriate definitive therapy. The clinical picture of the burn would may not always correlate with the true histologic depth of the injury. For this reason we have undertaken a program of obtaining punch biopsies of burn wounds in patients where the depth of the burn wound is equivocal. In such cases the biopsy has proven to be useful in guiding subsequent therapy. In addition to establishing the anatomic depth of injury, there are several other valuable uses of burn wound biopsies. The other uses are: diagnosis of invasive infection, quantitative bacterial culture, medical-legal values, psychological values and forensic utility.", "PMID": 451479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9685", "title": "Histology of healing of deep dermal burns in pigs.", "content": "A standard deep second degree burn was worked out in pigs. The burn was inflicted with a hot iron, standardized by immediate retraction measurements. Biopsies were taken from the wounds on days 0, 1, 4, 7, 14, 21. Standard staining methods were used. Spontaneous healing was followed and results compared with mechanical partial skin loss healing.", "contents": "Histology of healing of deep dermal burns in pigs. A standard deep second degree burn was worked out in pigs. The burn was inflicted with a hot iron, standardized by immediate retraction measurements. Biopsies were taken from the wounds on days 0, 1, 4, 7, 14, 21. Standard staining methods were used. Spontaneous healing was followed and results compared with mechanical partial skin loss healing.", "PMID": 451480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9686", "title": "Clinical forms of endotoxemia in burns.", "content": "Two groups of patients in whom endotoxemia was suspected were studied with respect to the laboratory data, clinical picture and autopsy findings. The first group showed the signs of gram-negative septicemia (age range 3 to 54 years with burns of 25 to 80% TBSA) and the second group (age range 20 to 76 years with burns not greater than 20% TBSA) showed an unexpected deterioration of the patient's condition. In 15 patients we established the diagnosis of endotoxemia on positive Limulus test as well as on other laboratory examinations and on the clinical signs. Five different forms of endotoxemia were distinguished varying in the evoking circumstance, clinical manifestation and pathological findings at autopsy: (1) the so called laboratory form--all survived; (2) the pulmonary form displaying the most brief and fulminant course--all died; (3) the form of disseminated intravascular coagulopathy; (4) the form of endotoxic shock due to administration of antibiotics; (5) the form of endotoxic shock as terminal stage of protracted gram-negative septicemia--the fatal outcome was inevitable in all cases. The authors stress the importance of minding and preventing all circumstances that might provoke the endotoxic (septic) shock.", "contents": "Clinical forms of endotoxemia in burns. Two groups of patients in whom endotoxemia was suspected were studied with respect to the laboratory data, clinical picture and autopsy findings. The first group showed the signs of gram-negative septicemia (age range 3 to 54 years with burns of 25 to 80% TBSA) and the second group (age range 20 to 76 years with burns not greater than 20% TBSA) showed an unexpected deterioration of the patient's condition. In 15 patients we established the diagnosis of endotoxemia on positive Limulus test as well as on other laboratory examinations and on the clinical signs. Five different forms of endotoxemia were distinguished varying in the evoking circumstance, clinical manifestation and pathological findings at autopsy: (1) the so called laboratory form--all survived; (2) the pulmonary form displaying the most brief and fulminant course--all died; (3) the form of disseminated intravascular coagulopathy; (4) the form of endotoxic shock due to administration of antibiotics; (5) the form of endotoxic shock as terminal stage of protracted gram-negative septicemia--the fatal outcome was inevitable in all cases. The authors stress the importance of minding and preventing all circumstances that might provoke the endotoxic (septic) shock.", "PMID": 451481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9687", "title": "Gas gangrene as a complication of burns.", "content": "Gas gangrene infection in burnt patients is a rare but often fatal complication. It may however, be successfully treated by the use of hyperbaric oxygen and later judicious amputation of dead tissues. Five cases of bacteriologically proven gas gangrene, three of whom survived, occurred out of a total of one thousand and sixty-four burns patients treated since 1964 in the McIndoe Burns Unit, and these we describe.", "contents": "Gas gangrene as a complication of burns. Gas gangrene infection in burnt patients is a rare but often fatal complication. It may however, be successfully treated by the use of hyperbaric oxygen and later judicious amputation of dead tissues. Five cases of bacteriologically proven gas gangrene, three of whom survived, occurred out of a total of one thousand and sixty-four burns patients treated since 1964 in the McIndoe Burns Unit, and these we describe.", "PMID": 451482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9688", "title": "Endotoxemia and endotoxemia diagnostics.", "content": "After the study of a group of severely burned patients with septicemia the authors reached the conclusion that the diagnosis of endotoxemia should be based on the following criteria: clinical condition, laboratory results and autopsy findings. Clinical findings can be subdivided into anamnestic data (such as age, liver function etc.) and direct clinical observation (taking into account states of stress and some specific surgical procedures). The most significant laboratory findings in the investigated group of patients were hypoxy, metabolic acidosis, lowered platelet count and positive Limulus test. Autopsy findings corresponded to findings in septicemia and shock. The authors also discuss the significance of activated lymphocyte accumulation in the liver following endotoxin administration in animals.", "contents": "Endotoxemia and endotoxemia diagnostics. After the study of a group of severely burned patients with septicemia the authors reached the conclusion that the diagnosis of endotoxemia should be based on the following criteria: clinical condition, laboratory results and autopsy findings. Clinical findings can be subdivided into anamnestic data (such as age, liver function etc.) and direct clinical observation (taking into account states of stress and some specific surgical procedures). The most significant laboratory findings in the investigated group of patients were hypoxy, metabolic acidosis, lowered platelet count and positive Limulus test. Autopsy findings corresponded to findings in septicemia and shock. The authors also discuss the significance of activated lymphocyte accumulation in the liver following endotoxin administration in animals.", "PMID": 451483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9689", "title": "Systematic utilization of an antipseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine in a severe burn unit.", "content": "The biological and clinical results of vaccination against pseudomonas aeruginosa infection have been analyzed for a group of 287 burned patients having over 25% surface burnt. The vaccine used was a cellular one inactivated by heat and containing 10 different strains. The effectiveness has been judged on the one hand by the increase in the antipseudomonas antibody count and on the other by comparing a group of vaccinated patients with a non-vaccinated group. After vaccination, the antipseudomonas aeruginosa antibodies increased from the 4th-5th day and reached an impressive increase after the 10th day. Clinically, protection is almost complete if one considers that pseudomonas aeruginosa positive blood cultures appear 15 days after vaccination, and above all the prognosis of these late infections. Both locally and generally, this vaccine has always been perfectly tolerated.", "contents": "Systematic utilization of an antipseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine in a severe burn unit. The biological and clinical results of vaccination against pseudomonas aeruginosa infection have been analyzed for a group of 287 burned patients having over 25% surface burnt. The vaccine used was a cellular one inactivated by heat and containing 10 different strains. The effectiveness has been judged on the one hand by the increase in the antipseudomonas antibody count and on the other by comparing a group of vaccinated patients with a non-vaccinated group. After vaccination, the antipseudomonas aeruginosa antibodies increased from the 4th-5th day and reached an impressive increase after the 10th day. Clinically, protection is almost complete if one considers that pseudomonas aeruginosa positive blood cultures appear 15 days after vaccination, and above all the prognosis of these late infections. Both locally and generally, this vaccine has always been perfectly tolerated.", "PMID": 451484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9690", "title": "A ten-year retrospective study of sepsis in severely burned patients treated with or without silver sulfadiazinate.", "content": "Three groups of extensive burn patients of the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) have been compared: Group I: twenty patients, who were treated locally without silver sulfadiazinate (1968-1970); Group II: the twenty first patients topically treated with silver sulfadiazinate (1970-1972); Group III: twenty similarly treated patients, with silver sulfadiazinate, six years later (1976-1977). The groups are statistically comparable. All bacteriological samples were computerized; the chi-square method was used for statistical analysis of the data. The main conclusions are: (A) Silver sulfadiazinate treatment reduced Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus sepsis. No change in Coliform bacilli sepsis was observed. After six years, a rise in Klebsiella sepsis and Candida sepsis was noted. (B) A quantitative estimate of infections in each group was made by measuring the percentage of positive samples, taking into account the five above-mentioned strains. In the beginning, silver sulfadiazinate reduced quantitative sepsis, but this benefit decreased after six years; the same evolution was demonstrated for positive blood bacteriology; severe septicaemia showed a parallel pattern.", "contents": "A ten-year retrospective study of sepsis in severely burned patients treated with or without silver sulfadiazinate. Three groups of extensive burn patients of the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) have been compared: Group I: twenty patients, who were treated locally without silver sulfadiazinate (1968-1970); Group II: the twenty first patients topically treated with silver sulfadiazinate (1970-1972); Group III: twenty similarly treated patients, with silver sulfadiazinate, six years later (1976-1977). The groups are statistically comparable. All bacteriological samples were computerized; the chi-square method was used for statistical analysis of the data. The main conclusions are: (A) Silver sulfadiazinate treatment reduced Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus sepsis. No change in Coliform bacilli sepsis was observed. After six years, a rise in Klebsiella sepsis and Candida sepsis was noted. (B) A quantitative estimate of infections in each group was made by measuring the percentage of positive samples, taking into account the five above-mentioned strains. In the beginning, silver sulfadiazinate reduced quantitative sepsis, but this benefit decreased after six years; the same evolution was demonstrated for positive blood bacteriology; severe septicaemia showed a parallel pattern.", "PMID": 451485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9691", "title": "Metal sulfonamides as antibacterial agents in topical therapy.", "content": "The apparent efficacy of zinc and cerium sulfadiazine and the metabolic role of other trace metals suggested that sulfonamide salts of these might be of therapeutic value. There is also a possibility that metal salts of other sulfonamides might be useful. Accordingly other sulfonamide salts of zinc were prepared and studied in vitro and in vivo. Only zinc sulfathiazole and zinc methoxazole were as effective as zinc sulfadiazine in animal studies. The sulfadiazines of aluminum, chromium, cobalt, copper and iron were prepared and compared in vitro and in vivo. Only cobalt sulfadiazine appeared comparable to zinc and cerium sulfadiazine in healing burn wounds in rats. Studies on the molecular structure of silver sulfonamides disclosed the polymeric structure peculiar to silver sulfadiazine which appears to account for its unique properties. It is not yet known whether other metal sulfadiazines have this attribute.", "contents": "Metal sulfonamides as antibacterial agents in topical therapy. The apparent efficacy of zinc and cerium sulfadiazine and the metabolic role of other trace metals suggested that sulfonamide salts of these might be of therapeutic value. There is also a possibility that metal salts of other sulfonamides might be useful. Accordingly other sulfonamide salts of zinc were prepared and studied in vitro and in vivo. Only zinc sulfathiazole and zinc methoxazole were as effective as zinc sulfadiazine in animal studies. The sulfadiazines of aluminum, chromium, cobalt, copper and iron were prepared and compared in vitro and in vivo. Only cobalt sulfadiazine appeared comparable to zinc and cerium sulfadiazine in healing burn wounds in rats. Studies on the molecular structure of silver sulfonamides disclosed the polymeric structure peculiar to silver sulfadiazine which appears to account for its unique properties. It is not yet known whether other metal sulfadiazines have this attribute.", "PMID": 451486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9692", "title": "Clinical comparison of maphenide and silver sulphadiazine.", "content": "A series of 645 consecutive burn injuries are analysed. There were 175 patients in the control group, 156 in the Maphenide (Sulfamylon) group and 314 in the Silver Sulphadiazine (S. S. D.) group. The Maphenide group and S.S.D. group are compared statistically with the control group. S.S.D. proved superior in relation to clinical infection rate and culture rate in reduction of Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus. Other culture rates were analysed. There were significant reductions in both groups for E. coli and Candida albicans. Pneumonias were significantly increased in both groups and the mortality rate reduced with S.S.D. Overall S.S.D. gave better results than Maphenide.", "contents": "Clinical comparison of maphenide and silver sulphadiazine. A series of 645 consecutive burn injuries are analysed. There were 175 patients in the control group, 156 in the Maphenide (Sulfamylon) group and 314 in the Silver Sulphadiazine (S. S. D.) group. The Maphenide group and S.S.D. group are compared statistically with the control group. S.S.D. proved superior in relation to clinical infection rate and culture rate in reduction of Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus. Other culture rates were analysed. There were significant reductions in both groups for E. coli and Candida albicans. Pneumonias were significantly increased in both groups and the mortality rate reduced with S.S.D. Overall S.S.D. gave better results than Maphenide.", "PMID": 451487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9693", "title": "Clinical assessment of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "A new experimental design was developed to study the value of clinical parameters of disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ten patients with classical rheumatoid arthritis were examined by five senior doctors in a department of medical rheumatology. In spite of an attempt to make the clinical examination as uniform as possible the inter-observer variation among the doctors was greater than the variation among the patients, for the following parameters: joint pain at rest, joint tenderness and joint swelling. An acceptable inter-observer variation in relation to patient variation was found for 1) a combined registration of joint pain at rest or on movement, 2) duration of morning stiffness, 3) grip strength, 4) subjective well-being as indicated on a visual analogue scale, 5) fingertip--palm distance, and 6) maximum flexion-extension in elbows, wrists and knees. The variation from morning to afternoon and from day to day was negligible. It is concluded that registration of elaborated articular scores is useless in the daily routine in rheumatological departments when different doctors examine the patients.", "contents": "Clinical assessment of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis. A new experimental design was developed to study the value of clinical parameters of disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ten patients with classical rheumatoid arthritis were examined by five senior doctors in a department of medical rheumatology. In spite of an attempt to make the clinical examination as uniform as possible the inter-observer variation among the doctors was greater than the variation among the patients, for the following parameters: joint pain at rest, joint tenderness and joint swelling. An acceptable inter-observer variation in relation to patient variation was found for 1) a combined registration of joint pain at rest or on movement, 2) duration of morning stiffness, 3) grip strength, 4) subjective well-being as indicated on a visual analogue scale, 5) fingertip--palm distance, and 6) maximum flexion-extension in elbows, wrists and knees. The variation from morning to afternoon and from day to day was negligible. It is concluded that registration of elaborated articular scores is useless in the daily routine in rheumatological departments when different doctors examine the patients.", "PMID": 451488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9694", "title": "Plasma salicylate levels in rheumatoid arthritis: a comparison between micro-encapsulated and conventional aspirin.", "content": "Ten patients with rheumatoid arthritis were given identical amounts of conventional aspirin (Magnecyl) tablets and micro-encapsulated aspirin (Reumyl) capsules. Steady-state salicylate levels were determined after 4 days' treatment at 8 a.m., 12 noon, 4 p.m., 10 p.m. and again at 8 a.m. No difference was noted between the levels at 12 noon or 4 p.m. The 10 p.m. levels were slightly though not significantly higher and the last set of 8 a.m. levels were significantly higher during the capsule administration. A criterion for inclusion was good tolerance of Magnecyl. The clinical effectiveness was not evaluated, but the observed good absorption features of Reumyl indicate that this preparation may prove to be of value in long-term treatment.", "contents": "Plasma salicylate levels in rheumatoid arthritis: a comparison between micro-encapsulated and conventional aspirin. Ten patients with rheumatoid arthritis were given identical amounts of conventional aspirin (Magnecyl) tablets and micro-encapsulated aspirin (Reumyl) capsules. Steady-state salicylate levels were determined after 4 days' treatment at 8 a.m., 12 noon, 4 p.m., 10 p.m. and again at 8 a.m. No difference was noted between the levels at 12 noon or 4 p.m. The 10 p.m. levels were slightly though not significantly higher and the last set of 8 a.m. levels were significantly higher during the capsule administration. A criterion for inclusion was good tolerance of Magnecyl. The clinical effectiveness was not evaluated, but the observed good absorption features of Reumyl indicate that this preparation may prove to be of value in long-term treatment.", "PMID": 451489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9695", "title": "Interobserver variation in the evaluation of radiologic changes of rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "The variation between four radiologists in the evaluation of hand, wrist, and foot radiographs of rheumatoid arthritis was examined. The recognition of individual radiologic changes varied considerably as judged by the findings of the different observers. Erosion and joint space narrowing were interpreted more uniformly than soft tissue swelling and osteoporosis. When the radiographs were graded from 0 to 5 using standard reference radiographs, more than 90% of them were graded uniformly or with a difference of only one grade. The investigation has shown that when applying grading of rheumatoid arthritis according to standard reference radiographs, the interobserver variation is considerably less than when pure individual radiological changes of rheumatoid arhtritis are considered.", "contents": "Interobserver variation in the evaluation of radiologic changes of rheumatoid arthritis. The variation between four radiologists in the evaluation of hand, wrist, and foot radiographs of rheumatoid arthritis was examined. The recognition of individual radiologic changes varied considerably as judged by the findings of the different observers. Erosion and joint space narrowing were interpreted more uniformly than soft tissue swelling and osteoporosis. When the radiographs were graded from 0 to 5 using standard reference radiographs, more than 90% of them were graded uniformly or with a difference of only one grade. The investigation has shown that when applying grading of rheumatoid arthritis according to standard reference radiographs, the interobserver variation is considerably less than when pure individual radiological changes of rheumatoid arhtritis are considered.", "PMID": 451490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9696", "title": "Skin collagen biosynthesis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with D-penicillamine.", "content": "Collagen biosynthesis was measured in skin biopsies taken from 13 patients with rheumatoid arthritis before and after at least 6 months' continuous treatment with D-penicillamine, 1.0 g/day. There was a significant 36% reduction in mean collagen biosynthesis (p less than 0.0125) as assayed by 14C-hydroxyproline formation from 14C-proline during 24 h of tissue culture. The changes in 14C-hydroxyproline formation were correlated with the total doses of D-penicillamine taken (r = 0.71, p less than 0.01) and the falls in ESR (r = 0.72, p less than 0.01). No significant change in general protein syntehsis was observed. 500 microgram/mlD-penicillamine added to skil cultures in vitro inhibited both collagen and general protein synthesis (p less than 0.01). It is suggested that the clinical improvement induced by D-penicillamine could reflect an inhibition of collagen proliferation in the synovium.", "contents": "Skin collagen biosynthesis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with D-penicillamine. Collagen biosynthesis was measured in skin biopsies taken from 13 patients with rheumatoid arthritis before and after at least 6 months' continuous treatment with D-penicillamine, 1.0 g/day. There was a significant 36% reduction in mean collagen biosynthesis (p less than 0.0125) as assayed by 14C-hydroxyproline formation from 14C-proline during 24 h of tissue culture. The changes in 14C-hydroxyproline formation were correlated with the total doses of D-penicillamine taken (r = 0.71, p less than 0.01) and the falls in ESR (r = 0.72, p less than 0.01). No significant change in general protein syntehsis was observed. 500 microgram/mlD-penicillamine added to skil cultures in vitro inhibited both collagen and general protein synthesis (p less than 0.01). It is suggested that the clinical improvement induced by D-penicillamine could reflect an inhibition of collagen proliferation in the synovium.", "PMID": 451491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9697", "title": "[Treatment with 10% glycerin in acute ischemic cerebral infarct. Doubleblind study].", "content": "56 patients with acute ischemic cerebral infarction were randomly allocated to intravenous treatment for 6 days with either 500 ml of a 10% glycerol solution or 500 ml of a 5% dextrose solution (placebo). The neurological status of the patients was evaluated by a blinded investigator before the beginning of the treatment, after 2 weeks and again after 6 months. According to the initial degree of neurological deficit, patients were stratified into a mild, intermediate and severe group (using a scoring system). After 2 weeks there was significantly less neurological deficit in the total glycerol-treated group than in the placebo group (2p less than 0.02). This favourable effect of glycerol was even greater in the patients with an initially intermediate degree of neurological deficity (2p less than 0.01). After 6 months there was no difference between the total glycerol-treated and the placebo group. A beneficial effect of glycerol treatment, however, was still demonstrable in the intermediate group (2p less than 0.05). Mortality was not influenced by glycerol treatment. No side effects of the glycerol treatment could be detected. Intravenous administration of 10% glycerol can thus be recommended in patients with acute cerebral infarction.", "contents": "[Treatment with 10% glycerin in acute ischemic cerebral infarct. Doubleblind study]. 56 patients with acute ischemic cerebral infarction were randomly allocated to intravenous treatment for 6 days with either 500 ml of a 10% glycerol solution or 500 ml of a 5% dextrose solution (placebo). The neurological status of the patients was evaluated by a blinded investigator before the beginning of the treatment, after 2 weeks and again after 6 months. According to the initial degree of neurological deficit, patients were stratified into a mild, intermediate and severe group (using a scoring system). After 2 weeks there was significantly less neurological deficit in the total glycerol-treated group than in the placebo group (2p less than 0.02). This favourable effect of glycerol was even greater in the patients with an initially intermediate degree of neurological deficity (2p less than 0.01). After 6 months there was no difference between the total glycerol-treated and the placebo group. A beneficial effect of glycerol treatment, however, was still demonstrable in the intermediate group (2p less than 0.05). Mortality was not influenced by glycerol treatment. No side effects of the glycerol treatment could be detected. Intravenous administration of 10% glycerol can thus be recommended in patients with acute cerebral infarction.", "PMID": 451497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9698", "title": "[The biological effect of purely synthetic human insulin in patients with diabetes mellitus].", "content": "Six patients with diabetes were treated with fully synthetic human insulin (CGP 12 831) for durations of 3 days (4 patients), 4 days and 13 days (1 patient each). In every case, clinical signs of hypoglycemia were registered and measured by blood sugar determinations. Two patients with insulin-dependent diabetes were maintained on synthetic insulin. Ketoacidosis was corrected in 1 patient. In a hyperglycemic diabetic with failing response to oral antidiabetics, synthetic insulin normalized the hyperglycemia. In 2 juveniles with recent onset of diabetes, every injection of synthetic insulin was followed by a fall in blood sugar. In a normal individual, hypoglycemia developed after a single injection of 8 units. The synthetic human insulin was well tolerated. The 6 diabetics showed evidence of full biological action of the fully synthetic insulin, as was expected from animal experiments.", "contents": "[The biological effect of purely synthetic human insulin in patients with diabetes mellitus]. Six patients with diabetes were treated with fully synthetic human insulin (CGP 12 831) for durations of 3 days (4 patients), 4 days and 13 days (1 patient each). In every case, clinical signs of hypoglycemia were registered and measured by blood sugar determinations. Two patients with insulin-dependent diabetes were maintained on synthetic insulin. Ketoacidosis was corrected in 1 patient. In a hyperglycemic diabetic with failing response to oral antidiabetics, synthetic insulin normalized the hyperglycemia. In 2 juveniles with recent onset of diabetes, every injection of synthetic insulin was followed by a fall in blood sugar. In a normal individual, hypoglycemia developed after a single injection of 8 units. The synthetic human insulin was well tolerated. The 6 diabetics showed evidence of full biological action of the fully synthetic insulin, as was expected from animal experiments.", "PMID": 451498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9699", "title": "[The effect of light physical work on the glucose formation in the liver in patients with liver cirrhosis].", "content": "In 7 normals and 7 patients with cirrhosis of the liver the influence of moderate physical work on glucose turnover was determined with 14C-glucose. Under resting conditions glucose turnover was 0.60 +/- 0.12 mmol/h/kg in the normals and 0.45 +/- 0.13 mmol/h/kg in the patients (mean +/- SD). During one hour's ergometer work of 45 +/- 12 watt, an increase of 90 +/- 42% (normals) and 53 +/- 29% (patients) was observed which resulted in a significantly lower turnover in the cirrhotics during work (normals 1.12 +/- 0.16, cirrhotics 0.68 +/- 0.14 mmol/h/kg). Serum concentrations of glucose, insulin and FFA remained constant in the normals, while in the patients a slight decrease in glucose and FFA was observed. Serum lactate levels were slightly higher and normalization lasted longer than in normals. It is obvious from these results that even fundamental liver functions, such as glucose production, are disturbed in patients with liver cirrhosis and show a reduced augmentation during physical work.", "contents": "[The effect of light physical work on the glucose formation in the liver in patients with liver cirrhosis]. In 7 normals and 7 patients with cirrhosis of the liver the influence of moderate physical work on glucose turnover was determined with 14C-glucose. Under resting conditions glucose turnover was 0.60 +/- 0.12 mmol/h/kg in the normals and 0.45 +/- 0.13 mmol/h/kg in the patients (mean +/- SD). During one hour's ergometer work of 45 +/- 12 watt, an increase of 90 +/- 42% (normals) and 53 +/- 29% (patients) was observed which resulted in a significantly lower turnover in the cirrhotics during work (normals 1.12 +/- 0.16, cirrhotics 0.68 +/- 0.14 mmol/h/kg). Serum concentrations of glucose, insulin and FFA remained constant in the normals, while in the patients a slight decrease in glucose and FFA was observed. Serum lactate levels were slightly higher and normalization lasted longer than in normals. It is obvious from these results that even fundamental liver functions, such as glucose production, are disturbed in patients with liver cirrhosis and show a reduced augmentation during physical work.", "PMID": 451499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9700", "title": "[The problem of the multifocal breast neoplasm].", "content": "Nowadays, it is accepted that mammary cancer does not represent a localized tumor only, but a bilateral disease of breast tissues. During a period of 6 years, bilateral manifestations of infiltrating cancer have been observed in 12.7% of all cases. 23.2% of all breast cancer patients had a unilaterial multicentric tumor. The implications of this phenomenon with regard to control and therapy are as follows: As early diagnosis of malignant breast tumors often is possible by means of mammography, this examination should be performed regulary in high-risk patients, especially in cases of known earlier malignancy of one breast. More radical surgery should have priority, in view of the frequently observed multicentricity of breast cancers.", "contents": "[The problem of the multifocal breast neoplasm]. Nowadays, it is accepted that mammary cancer does not represent a localized tumor only, but a bilateral disease of breast tissues. During a period of 6 years, bilateral manifestations of infiltrating cancer have been observed in 12.7% of all cases. 23.2% of all breast cancer patients had a unilaterial multicentric tumor. The implications of this phenomenon with regard to control and therapy are as follows: As early diagnosis of malignant breast tumors often is possible by means of mammography, this examination should be performed regulary in high-risk patients, especially in cases of known earlier malignancy of one breast. More radical surgery should have priority, in view of the frequently observed multicentricity of breast cancers.", "PMID": 451500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9701", "title": "[Congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Caroli's disease and its complications].", "content": "Two cases with congenital dilatations of the intrahepatic bile ducts are reported. The clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects and possible complications of this rare disease are discussed. The well-known frequent occurrence of cholangiocarcinoma in Caroli's disease is illustrated by one of our patients. Because of the limited therapeutic possibilities, the prognosis of this illness remains unfavourable.", "contents": "[Congenital cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Caroli's disease and its complications]. Two cases with congenital dilatations of the intrahepatic bile ducts are reported. The clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects and possible complications of this rare disease are discussed. The well-known frequent occurrence of cholangiocarcinoma in Caroli's disease is illustrated by one of our patients. Because of the limited therapeutic possibilities, the prognosis of this illness remains unfavourable.", "PMID": 451501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9702", "title": "[Neurophysiological characteristics of early auditory waves of the brain stem and their clinical utilization].", "content": "The auditory brainstem electric response yields information on both the neurological and the audiological status of infants and adults. These early waves have particular properties as: non-habituation, absence of latency modifications between sleep, awake state, or under high doses of barbiturates. We have developed a procedure for extracting each type of information by measuring the latencies of wave I (auditory nerve) and wave V (inferior colliculus), then the speed of conduction between these two waves.", "contents": "[Neurophysiological characteristics of early auditory waves of the brain stem and their clinical utilization]. The auditory brainstem electric response yields information on both the neurological and the audiological status of infants and adults. These early waves have particular properties as: non-habituation, absence of latency modifications between sleep, awake state, or under high doses of barbiturates. We have developed a procedure for extracting each type of information by measuring the latencies of wave I (auditory nerve) and wave V (inferior colliculus), then the speed of conduction between these two waves.", "PMID": 451503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9703", "title": "[Catamnestic studies in hemiplegics].", "content": "61 patients with hemiplegia who had undergone hospital rehabilitation were examined 1 year later and 29 patients after an interval of 10--11 years. Special attention was paid to improvements and relapses with respect to walking ability, personal care, and social situation. The investigation showed that 62% of personal living on their own made progress in the activities of daily life; there were no relapses. 14% of those living in a family showed improvement while 29% relapsed. Of patients living in nursing homes only 5% showed improvement, while there were relapses in 42% of cases. The percentages of cases showing improvement (or relapses) with respect to walking ability are as follows: 20% (7.5%), 30% (22%) and 0% (21%). 32% of the patients had regular physiotherapy sessions. A change in the social situation had resulted for 50%; many of these were lonely and missed visitors. Persons looking after themselves showed the best prognosis following rehabilitation.", "contents": "[Catamnestic studies in hemiplegics]. 61 patients with hemiplegia who had undergone hospital rehabilitation were examined 1 year later and 29 patients after an interval of 10--11 years. Special attention was paid to improvements and relapses with respect to walking ability, personal care, and social situation. The investigation showed that 62% of personal living on their own made progress in the activities of daily life; there were no relapses. 14% of those living in a family showed improvement while 29% relapsed. Of patients living in nursing homes only 5% showed improvement, while there were relapses in 42% of cases. The percentages of cases showing improvement (or relapses) with respect to walking ability are as follows: 20% (7.5%), 30% (22%) and 0% (21%). 32% of the patients had regular physiotherapy sessions. A change in the social situation had resulted for 50%; many of these were lonely and missed visitors. Persons looking after themselves showed the best prognosis following rehabilitation.", "PMID": 451504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9704", "title": "[Cardiac tamponade in malignant tumors].", "content": "Among 40 patients with cardiac tamponade observed over the years 1972--1978, 23 (57.5%) had a neoplasm as primary cause of illness. The most common etiology was bronchial carcinoma (13). In 9 cases cardiac tamponade was the first clinical symptom of the tumor. Evacuation of the pericardial fluid by puncture (3), surgical drainage (6) and left parasternal insertion of a plastic catheter (12) brought rapid relief from symptoms in all cases. Six patients survived 3--6 months, while another two have now been followed up for over 5 years. Diagnostic problems and therapeutic possibilities in malignant pericarditis are discussed.", "contents": "[Cardiac tamponade in malignant tumors]. Among 40 patients with cardiac tamponade observed over the years 1972--1978, 23 (57.5%) had a neoplasm as primary cause of illness. The most common etiology was bronchial carcinoma (13). In 9 cases cardiac tamponade was the first clinical symptom of the tumor. Evacuation of the pericardial fluid by puncture (3), surgical drainage (6) and left parasternal insertion of a plastic catheter (12) brought rapid relief from symptoms in all cases. Six patients survived 3--6 months, while another two have now been followed up for over 5 years. Diagnostic problems and therapeutic possibilities in malignant pericarditis are discussed.", "PMID": 451505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9705", "title": "[Indication for selective surgical excision of hepatic metastases].", "content": "451 patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer showed synchronous hepatic metastases in 24.4% (110 cases). Survival of patients with hepatic metastases appears to depend on both the age of the patient and the site of metastatic deposit. A relatively good prognosis group with median survival of 14 months can be separated from the other patients with only 5 months survival. Survival of patients with hepatic metastases can thus be predicted and long-term survival (5 and 10 years) obtained by surgical excision of these metastases. Postoperative CEA determinations will also increase the rate of early surgery for hepatic metastases.", "contents": "[Indication for selective surgical excision of hepatic metastases]. 451 patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer showed synchronous hepatic metastases in 24.4% (110 cases). Survival of patients with hepatic metastases appears to depend on both the age of the patient and the site of metastatic deposit. A relatively good prognosis group with median survival of 14 months can be separated from the other patients with only 5 months survival. Survival of patients with hepatic metastases can thus be predicted and long-term survival (5 and 10 years) obtained by surgical excision of these metastases. Postoperative CEA determinations will also increase the rate of early surgery for hepatic metastases.", "PMID": 451506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9706", "title": "[Malignat non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in childhood. Therapeutic results in 47 patients].", "content": "A preliminary report is presented on survival in 16 children with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma treated since 1975, as compared with that in 31 similar children treated between 1962 and 1974. In the former group, 10 of 14 children (71%) survived one or more years and 5 of 9 children (56%) two or more years with no evidence of disease. In the latter group, the corresponding survival rates were 26% and 19% respectively. This improvement is due to the introduction of an aggressive multidrug chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy, similar to the LSA2-L2 protocol. Considerable toxicity was observed with the new treatment. 23 of the 46 patients with diffuse non-Hodgkin's lymphoma had a Burkitt-type tumor. Treatment failures occurred mainly in children with a Burkitt-type tumor with primary intraabdominal localization.", "contents": "[Malignat non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in childhood. Therapeutic results in 47 patients]. A preliminary report is presented on survival in 16 children with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma treated since 1975, as compared with that in 31 similar children treated between 1962 and 1974. In the former group, 10 of 14 children (71%) survived one or more years and 5 of 9 children (56%) two or more years with no evidence of disease. In the latter group, the corresponding survival rates were 26% and 19% respectively. This improvement is due to the introduction of an aggressive multidrug chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy, similar to the LSA2-L2 protocol. Considerable toxicity was observed with the new treatment. 23 of the 46 patients with diffuse non-Hodgkin's lymphoma had a Burkitt-type tumor. Treatment failures occurred mainly in children with a Burkitt-type tumor with primary intraabdominal localization.", "PMID": 451507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9707", "title": "[Familial bradycardia: a family with sick sinus and atrioventricular block].", "content": "A kindred is described in which several members have evidence of sick sinus syndrome and of conduction disturbance. The data suggest that in this family the rhythm disturbances were transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait whose penetrance increase with age. The occurrence of Adams-Stokes episodes required pacemaker implantation in 6 patients. In one case the arrhythmia is associated with a cardiomyopathy of unknown origin. No pathological studies were conducted. In one case the His bundle electrogram was recorded.", "contents": "[Familial bradycardia: a family with sick sinus and atrioventricular block]. A kindred is described in which several members have evidence of sick sinus syndrome and of conduction disturbance. The data suggest that in this family the rhythm disturbances were transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait whose penetrance increase with age. The occurrence of Adams-Stokes episodes required pacemaker implantation in 6 patients. In one case the arrhythmia is associated with a cardiomyopathy of unknown origin. No pathological studies were conducted. In one case the His bundle electrogram was recorded.", "PMID": 451508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9708", "title": "[Value and limits of urinary protein electrophoresis with sodium dodecyl sulfate in the evaluation of glomerular nephropathies].", "content": "Qualitative analysis of urinary proteins is contrasted with histological findings of 45 renal biopsies performed in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis. Compared to electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and immunoelectrophoresis, a method using polyacrylamide gel after sodium dodecylsulfate treatment makes for more refined and objective differentiation of protein abnormalities. On the whole, proteinuria of the selective glomerular or physiological type predominates in the event of minimal change or membranous lesions. The non-selective type is found more frequently with diffuse proliferative or membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (p less than 0.025). There are, however, too many exceptions to this rule to allow certainty, and a precise diagnosis of the particular type of glomerulonephritis is thus only possible histologically. Each type of histological involvement may cause almost any of the qualitative abnormalities of proteinuria. On the other hand, qualitative analysis of urinary proteins is useful for the detection of glomerulonephritis. A glomerular type of proteinuria may sometimes reveal involvement of kidneys at a time when, quantitatively, there is no proteinuria. In cases of orthostatic proteinuria a persistent glomerular type of tracing in recumbency suggests an organic kidney ailment. All patients in this series had a glomerular type of proteinuria when excretion was pathological, thus allowing a distinction from pure tubular involvement. 10 patients of the group, however, although they clearly had glomerular lesions (3 were diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis) showed perfectly normal proteinuria both quantitatively and qualitatively. This was the case in systemic lupus erythematosus where kidney biopsy was performed without clinical suspicion of renal involvement. In summary, qualitative abnormalities of proteinuria call attention to underlying glomerulonephritis, although no distinction can be made between the various forms and there may be no detectable abnormality even in the event of major kidney involvement.", "contents": "[Value and limits of urinary protein electrophoresis with sodium dodecyl sulfate in the evaluation of glomerular nephropathies]. Qualitative analysis of urinary proteins is contrasted with histological findings of 45 renal biopsies performed in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis. Compared to electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and immunoelectrophoresis, a method using polyacrylamide gel after sodium dodecylsulfate treatment makes for more refined and objective differentiation of protein abnormalities. On the whole, proteinuria of the selective glomerular or physiological type predominates in the event of minimal change or membranous lesions. The non-selective type is found more frequently with diffuse proliferative or membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (p less than 0.025). There are, however, too many exceptions to this rule to allow certainty, and a precise diagnosis of the particular type of glomerulonephritis is thus only possible histologically. Each type of histological involvement may cause almost any of the qualitative abnormalities of proteinuria. On the other hand, qualitative analysis of urinary proteins is useful for the detection of glomerulonephritis. A glomerular type of proteinuria may sometimes reveal involvement of kidneys at a time when, quantitatively, there is no proteinuria. In cases of orthostatic proteinuria a persistent glomerular type of tracing in recumbency suggests an organic kidney ailment. All patients in this series had a glomerular type of proteinuria when excretion was pathological, thus allowing a distinction from pure tubular involvement. 10 patients of the group, however, although they clearly had glomerular lesions (3 were diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis) showed perfectly normal proteinuria both quantitatively and qualitatively. This was the case in systemic lupus erythematosus where kidney biopsy was performed without clinical suspicion of renal involvement. In summary, qualitative abnormalities of proteinuria call attention to underlying glomerulonephritis, although no distinction can be made between the various forms and there may be no detectable abnormality even in the event of major kidney involvement.", "PMID": 451509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9709", "title": "[Angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy. 3 cases with polyclonal gammopathy].", "content": "Three patients with an atypical lymphoproliferative disorder disorder and polyclonal gammopathy have been reviewed retrospectively. The clinical and histological findings are compatible with the recently described entity of angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy. Two patients died within 6 months after the first symptoms of the disease. Circulating immuncomplexes were demonstrated in the serum of 2 patients. In one patient with a nearly fourfold increase of IgG, persistent hyponatremia was found.", "contents": "[Angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy. 3 cases with polyclonal gammopathy]. Three patients with an atypical lymphoproliferative disorder disorder and polyclonal gammopathy have been reviewed retrospectively. The clinical and histological findings are compatible with the recently described entity of angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy. Two patients died within 6 months after the first symptoms of the disease. Circulating immuncomplexes were demonstrated in the serum of 2 patients. In one patient with a nearly fourfold increase of IgG, persistent hyponatremia was found.", "PMID": 451510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9710", "title": "[Pregnancy following tumor therapy].", "content": "A report is presented on 9 patients who became pregnant and gave birth to 11 children after intensive or long-term tumor therapy. Eight patients had Hodgkin's disease and one patient metastatic choriocarcinoma. Two children had a birth defect probably related to the anticancer therapy: one child has hearing loss of the inner ear and one child a cleft lip and palate. Some general issues relating to pregnancy after tumor therapy are discussed.", "contents": "[Pregnancy following tumor therapy]. A report is presented on 9 patients who became pregnant and gave birth to 11 children after intensive or long-term tumor therapy. Eight patients had Hodgkin's disease and one patient metastatic choriocarcinoma. Two children had a birth defect probably related to the anticancer therapy: one child has hearing loss of the inner ear and one child a cleft lip and palate. Some general issues relating to pregnancy after tumor therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 451511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9711", "title": "[Decompressive craniotomy in herpes simplex encephalitis].", "content": "Two patients with herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) underwent decompressive craniotomy with brain biopsy. The indication for the procedure was in both cases computertomographic finding of a large, space-occupying process situated in the temple lobe with clinical picture involving febrile state, progressive hemiparesis, and subconsciousness. The patients were treated with standard doses of Ara A and methylprednisolone immediately after operation. In both cases, the improvement was very impressive. The massive neurological deficits -- in one case even including subtotal aphasia -- disappeared almost completely in the weeks following operation. 6 months later both patients underwent cranioplasty. These observations show that decompressive craniotomy with dilatation of the dura represents a decisive therapeutic approach in the case of HSE when the pressure of the brain cannot be brought under control by medical treatment. Computertomography proved to be of particular diagnostic value and assists in taking decisions for meaningful surgical treatment.", "contents": "[Decompressive craniotomy in herpes simplex encephalitis]. Two patients with herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) underwent decompressive craniotomy with brain biopsy. The indication for the procedure was in both cases computertomographic finding of a large, space-occupying process situated in the temple lobe with clinical picture involving febrile state, progressive hemiparesis, and subconsciousness. The patients were treated with standard doses of Ara A and methylprednisolone immediately after operation. In both cases, the improvement was very impressive. The massive neurological deficits -- in one case even including subtotal aphasia -- disappeared almost completely in the weeks following operation. 6 months later both patients underwent cranioplasty. These observations show that decompressive craniotomy with dilatation of the dura represents a decisive therapeutic approach in the case of HSE when the pressure of the brain cannot be brought under control by medical treatment. Computertomography proved to be of particular diagnostic value and assists in taking decisions for meaningful surgical treatment.", "PMID": 451512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9712", "title": "[Severe colitis with eosinophilia].", "content": "A 23-year-old woman from the French Antilles was successfully treated for intestinal and hepatic schistosomiasis, as evidenced by the normalization of immunofluorescence titers and many negative histogogical controls. She presented, however, persistent colitis with marked eosinophilia (eosinophils in excess of 50,000/mm3). No precise diagnosis could be established in spite of all parasitological, allergological, hematological and gastroenterological investigations. The colon was the only organ involved and showed colitis of a type unclassifiable both endoscopically and histologically. Massive infiltration by eosinophils was present. Temporary relief was achieved with steroids but the clinical condition of the patient became dramatic. Three years after the onset of the illness total colectomy was performed, sparing the rectum. After surgery all manifestations of disease disappeared and for ten months the number of eosinophils was normal. Ileorectal continuity could be re-established. Ten months after reanastomosis there was recurrence of bleeding from the rectum and eosiophils once again reached levels of 2340/mm3. The differential diagnosis of this colitis associated with eosinophilia is discussed. To our knowledge it does not correspond to any clinical entity described so far.", "contents": "[Severe colitis with eosinophilia]. A 23-year-old woman from the French Antilles was successfully treated for intestinal and hepatic schistosomiasis, as evidenced by the normalization of immunofluorescence titers and many negative histogogical controls. She presented, however, persistent colitis with marked eosinophilia (eosinophils in excess of 50,000/mm3). No precise diagnosis could be established in spite of all parasitological, allergological, hematological and gastroenterological investigations. The colon was the only organ involved and showed colitis of a type unclassifiable both endoscopically and histologically. Massive infiltration by eosinophils was present. Temporary relief was achieved with steroids but the clinical condition of the patient became dramatic. Three years after the onset of the illness total colectomy was performed, sparing the rectum. After surgery all manifestations of disease disappeared and for ten months the number of eosinophils was normal. Ileorectal continuity could be re-established. Ten months after reanastomosis there was recurrence of bleeding from the rectum and eosiophils once again reached levels of 2340/mm3. The differential diagnosis of this colitis associated with eosinophilia is discussed. To our knowledge it does not correspond to any clinical entity described so far.", "PMID": 451513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9713", "title": "Antibody-selective membrane electrodes.", "content": "Direct antibody-sensing membrane electrodes have been developed by immobilizing ion-carrier immunogen conjugates in a liquid membrane matrix. The resulting potentiometric probes measure specific antibodies with high selectivity over nonspecific antibodies in the physiological pH range. The electrode response is shown to arise from the selective interaction of the antibody with the membrane-bound immunogen.", "contents": "Antibody-selective membrane electrodes. Direct antibody-sensing membrane electrodes have been developed by immobilizing ion-carrier immunogen conjugates in a liquid membrane matrix. The resulting potentiometric probes measure specific antibodies with high selectivity over nonspecific antibodies in the physiological pH range. The electrode response is shown to arise from the selective interaction of the antibody with the membrane-bound immunogen.", "PMID": 451536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9714", "title": "A synthetic pentapeptide with biological activity characteristic of the thymic hormone thymopoietin.", "content": "The pentapeptide arginyl-lysyl-aspartyl-valyl-tyrosine, corresponding to amino acid residues 32--36 in thymopoietin, was synthesized. In vitro, this pentapeptide induced the differentiation of murine prothymocytes to thymocytes and inhibited differentiative induction of cells of the B lineage. This combination of actions is presently unique to the parent molecule thymopoietin. In vivo, the pentapeptide reduced the high numbers of autologous rosette-forming cells normally present in the spleens of athymic mice; this also is a property of thymopoietin. These results suggest that this readily synthesized pentapeptide corresponds to an active site of thymopoietin and might serve as a therapeutic substitute for thymopoietin.", "contents": "A synthetic pentapeptide with biological activity characteristic of the thymic hormone thymopoietin. The pentapeptide arginyl-lysyl-aspartyl-valyl-tyrosine, corresponding to amino acid residues 32--36 in thymopoietin, was synthesized. In vitro, this pentapeptide induced the differentiation of murine prothymocytes to thymocytes and inhibited differentiative induction of cells of the B lineage. This combination of actions is presently unique to the parent molecule thymopoietin. In vivo, the pentapeptide reduced the high numbers of autologous rosette-forming cells normally present in the spleens of athymic mice; this also is a property of thymopoietin. These results suggest that this readily synthesized pentapeptide corresponds to an active site of thymopoietin and might serve as a therapeutic substitute for thymopoietin.", "PMID": 451537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9715", "title": "Evidence for extra-renal 1 alpha-hydroxylation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in pregnancy.", "content": "The kidneys are thought to be the only organs capable of 1 alpha-hydroxylation of vitamin D and its metabolites. We have examined the in vivo conversion of 3H-(25,26)-25-hydroxyvitamin D3(25OHD3) to 3H-(25,26)-1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1 alpha,25(OH)2D3] in vitamin D-deficient, pregnant and nonpregnant rats. As expected, nephrectomy of nonpregnant, vitamin D-deficient rats prevented the conversion of 25OHD3 to 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3. In contrast, nephrectomy of pregnant, vitamin D-deficient rats reduced but did not abolish the formation of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 from its precursor. The identity of the radioactive metabolite formed from 3H-25OHD3 which circulated in nephrectomized, pregnant rats was established as 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 by comigration with synthetic 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 on high-pressure liquid chromatography. The simultaneous absence of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 in the fetal kidneys indicated that the site of 1 alpha-hydroxylation after nephrectomy of the pregnant rat was probably extra-renal in origin. Two sites of 1 alpha-hydroxylation of 25OHD3, one renal and the other extra-renal, either fetoplacental or maternal, may exist in the pregnant, vitamin D-deficient rat.", "contents": "Evidence for extra-renal 1 alpha-hydroxylation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in pregnancy. The kidneys are thought to be the only organs capable of 1 alpha-hydroxylation of vitamin D and its metabolites. We have examined the in vivo conversion of 3H-(25,26)-25-hydroxyvitamin D3(25OHD3) to 3H-(25,26)-1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1 alpha,25(OH)2D3] in vitamin D-deficient, pregnant and nonpregnant rats. As expected, nephrectomy of nonpregnant, vitamin D-deficient rats prevented the conversion of 25OHD3 to 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3. In contrast, nephrectomy of pregnant, vitamin D-deficient rats reduced but did not abolish the formation of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 from its precursor. The identity of the radioactive metabolite formed from 3H-25OHD3 which circulated in nephrectomized, pregnant rats was established as 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 by comigration with synthetic 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 on high-pressure liquid chromatography. The simultaneous absence of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 in the fetal kidneys indicated that the site of 1 alpha-hydroxylation after nephrectomy of the pregnant rat was probably extra-renal in origin. Two sites of 1 alpha-hydroxylation of 25OHD3, one renal and the other extra-renal, either fetoplacental or maternal, may exist in the pregnant, vitamin D-deficient rat.", "PMID": 451538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9716", "title": "Role of nuclear size in cell growth initiation.", "content": "Swiss 3T3 cells arrested in B0 (quiescent state) by reducing serum content of the medium all contain the same amount of DNA but vary in nuclear volume over approximately a twofold range. By use of flow microfluorimetry, scatterplots of nuclear volume versus DNA content were obtained in intervals after serum stimulation. The earliest cells to enter DNA synthesis were those with the largest nuclei, whereas cells with the smallest nuclei were among the latest. Regulation of cellular transit from G0 to the S phase was therefore, at least in part, deterministic, since all G0 cells did not have equal probabilities of entry into S at a given moment. All cells having the same nuclear volume did not initiate DNA synthesis at the same moment; therefore, factors other than nuclear volume must also influence this timing. Nuclear volume correlated with the maximum rate at which cells could enter S. The kinetic model of the cell cycle postulating a probabilistic event as solely responsible for entry into S thus appears too simple.", "contents": "Role of nuclear size in cell growth initiation. Swiss 3T3 cells arrested in B0 (quiescent state) by reducing serum content of the medium all contain the same amount of DNA but vary in nuclear volume over approximately a twofold range. By use of flow microfluorimetry, scatterplots of nuclear volume versus DNA content were obtained in intervals after serum stimulation. The earliest cells to enter DNA synthesis were those with the largest nuclei, whereas cells with the smallest nuclei were among the latest. Regulation of cellular transit from G0 to the S phase was therefore, at least in part, deterministic, since all G0 cells did not have equal probabilities of entry into S at a given moment. All cells having the same nuclear volume did not initiate DNA synthesis at the same moment; therefore, factors other than nuclear volume must also influence this timing. Nuclear volume correlated with the maximum rate at which cells could enter S. The kinetic model of the cell cycle postulating a probabilistic event as solely responsible for entry into S thus appears too simple.", "PMID": 451539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9717", "title": "Linkage of loci controlling alloantigens on red blood cells and lymphocytes in the horse.", "content": "A system of equine lymphocyte alloantigens designated ELA, is identified, and it is shown that the locus or loci controlling these markers must be closely linked to the locus controlling markers in the A system of horse blood groups. Among 29 offspring in two stallion families there was evidence for one recombinant. Lod scores for linkage between the A and ELA loci in the two families were 3.61 and 3.33, respectively, for theta equal to 0.", "contents": "Linkage of loci controlling alloantigens on red blood cells and lymphocytes in the horse. A system of equine lymphocyte alloantigens designated ELA, is identified, and it is shown that the locus or loci controlling these markers must be closely linked to the locus controlling markers in the A system of horse blood groups. Among 29 offspring in two stallion families there was evidence for one recombinant. Lod scores for linkage between the A and ELA loci in the two families were 3.61 and 3.33, respectively, for theta equal to 0.", "PMID": 451540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9718", "title": "Rhythms in human performance: 1 1/2-hour oscillations in cognitive style.", "content": "Performance on verbal and spatial matching tasks was assessed every 15 minutes for 8 hours. Significant 60- to 100-minute oscillations were observed for each task. These oscillations were 180 degrees out of phase, supporting the hypothesis that in humans the basic rest activity cycle involves alternating activation of processing systems residing in the two cerebral hemispheres.", "contents": "Rhythms in human performance: 1 1/2-hour oscillations in cognitive style. Performance on verbal and spatial matching tasks was assessed every 15 minutes for 8 hours. Significant 60- to 100-minute oscillations were observed for each task. These oscillations were 180 degrees out of phase, supporting the hypothesis that in humans the basic rest activity cycle involves alternating activation of processing systems residing in the two cerebral hemispheres.", "PMID": 451541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9719", "title": "Development of the capacity for tactile information transfer between hemispheres in normal children.", "content": "The hypothesis of less direct interaction between hemispheres in young children was supported by a behavioral test. Fabric samples were compared with either the same hand (same hemisphere) or with opposite hands (between hemispheres). Crossed errors were a significantly larger proportion of total errors in 3-year-olds than in 5-year-olds.", "contents": "Development of the capacity for tactile information transfer between hemispheres in normal children. The hypothesis of less direct interaction between hemispheres in young children was supported by a behavioral test. Fabric samples were compared with either the same hand (same hemisphere) or with opposite hands (between hemispheres). Crossed errors were a significantly larger proportion of total errors in 3-year-olds than in 5-year-olds.", "PMID": 451542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9720", "title": "Perception of echo phase information in bat sonar.", "content": "Echolocating bats (Eptesicus fuscus) can detect changes as small as 500 nanoseconds in the arrival time of sonar echoes when these changes appear as jitter or alternations in arrival time from one echo to the next. The psychophysical function relating the bat's performance to the magnitude of the jitter corresponds to the half-wave rectified cross-correlation function between the emitted sonar signals and the echoes. The bat perceives the phase or period structure of the sounds, which cover the 25- to 100-kilohertz frequency range, as these are represented in the auditory system after peripheral transformation. The acoustic image of a sonar target is apparently derived from time-domain or periodicity information processing by the nervous system.", "contents": "Perception of echo phase information in bat sonar. Echolocating bats (Eptesicus fuscus) can detect changes as small as 500 nanoseconds in the arrival time of sonar echoes when these changes appear as jitter or alternations in arrival time from one echo to the next. The psychophysical function relating the bat's performance to the magnitude of the jitter corresponds to the half-wave rectified cross-correlation function between the emitted sonar signals and the echoes. The bat perceives the phase or period structure of the sounds, which cover the 25- to 100-kilohertz frequency range, as these are represented in the auditory system after peripheral transformation. The acoustic image of a sonar target is apparently derived from time-domain or periodicity information processing by the nervous system.", "PMID": 451543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9721", "title": "On the specificity of kainic acid.", "content": "The specificity of the neurotoxic agent, kainic acid, for destroying cell bodies while sparing terminals and fibers of passage was examined by infusing this agent into the axons of the dorsal noradrenergic bundle and measuring the degree of depletion of noradrenaline concentrations and the reduction in noradrenaline uptake in cortex and hippocampus. Extensive neuronal loss and gliosis were observed around the injection site. In addition, a significant and consistent 25 percent depletion of hippocampal-cortical noradrenaline was also obtained. The results suggest that although kainic acid has its greatest destructive action on neuronal perikarya, a significant amount of damage to axons of passage may also occur.", "contents": "On the specificity of kainic acid. The specificity of the neurotoxic agent, kainic acid, for destroying cell bodies while sparing terminals and fibers of passage was examined by infusing this agent into the axons of the dorsal noradrenergic bundle and measuring the degree of depletion of noradrenaline concentrations and the reduction in noradrenaline uptake in cortex and hippocampus. Extensive neuronal loss and gliosis were observed around the injection site. In addition, a significant and consistent 25 percent depletion of hippocampal-cortical noradrenaline was also obtained. The results suggest that although kainic acid has its greatest destructive action on neuronal perikarya, a significant amount of damage to axons of passage may also occur.", "PMID": 451544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9722", "title": "Morphological affinities of Pan paniscus.", "content": "Although the pygmy chimpanzee (Pan paniscus) is more similar to man than is the common chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) in some traits, the resemblance is due primarily to the smaller size and concomitant allometric generalization of the former. The two species of chimpanzees are equally good models for the common ancestry of African apes and man.", "contents": "Morphological affinities of Pan paniscus. Although the pygmy chimpanzee (Pan paniscus) is more similar to man than is the common chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) in some traits, the resemblance is due primarily to the smaller size and concomitant allometric generalization of the former. The two species of chimpanzees are equally good models for the common ancestry of African apes and man.", "PMID": 451545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9723", "title": "Regulation of gene expression: possible role of repetitive sequences.", "content": "Large contrasts are observed between the messenger RNA populations of different tissues and of embryos at different stages of development. Nevertheless, coding sequences for genes not expressed in a cell appear to be present in its nuclear RNA. Though many nuclear RNA transcripts of single copy DNA sequences are held in common between tissues, an additional set, probably consisting of non-message sequences, is not shared. Nuclear RNA also contains transcripts of repetitive DNA sequences. Certain repeat families are represented at high levels in the nuclear RNA of particular tissues and much lower levels in others. It is surprising that both complements of most repeat sequences are present in nuclear RNA. These observations lead to model for regulation of gene expression in which the formation of repetitive RNA-RNA duplexes controls the production of messenger RNA.", "contents": "Regulation of gene expression: possible role of repetitive sequences. Large contrasts are observed between the messenger RNA populations of different tissues and of embryos at different stages of development. Nevertheless, coding sequences for genes not expressed in a cell appear to be present in its nuclear RNA. Though many nuclear RNA transcripts of single copy DNA sequences are held in common between tissues, an additional set, probably consisting of non-message sequences, is not shared. Nuclear RNA also contains transcripts of repetitive DNA sequences. Certain repeat families are represented at high levels in the nuclear RNA of particular tissues and much lower levels in others. It is surprising that both complements of most repeat sequences are present in nuclear RNA. These observations lead to model for regulation of gene expression in which the formation of repetitive RNA-RNA duplexes controls the production of messenger RNA.", "PMID": 451548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9724", "title": "Nitrite promotes lymphoma incidence in rats.", "content": "Rats were exposed to sodium nitrite in food or water at concentrations of 0, 250, 1000, and 2000 parts per million. Lymphoma was increased in all groups fed nitrite; the overall combined incidence was 5.4 percent in 573 control rats and 10.2 percent in 1383 treated rats. The mechanism of cancer induction did not appear to be through the formation of nitrosamines but through a more direct effect of nitrite on the lymphocyte.", "contents": "Nitrite promotes lymphoma incidence in rats. Rats were exposed to sodium nitrite in food or water at concentrations of 0, 250, 1000, and 2000 parts per million. Lymphoma was increased in all groups fed nitrite; the overall combined incidence was 5.4 percent in 573 control rats and 10.2 percent in 1383 treated rats. The mechanism of cancer induction did not appear to be through the formation of nitrosamines but through a more direct effect of nitrite on the lymphocyte.", "PMID": 451551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9725", "title": "Muscle fiber regeneration after transplantation: prediction of structure and physiology from electromyograms.", "content": "Digitized electromyographic activity of transplanted extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles in cats differs from that of control EDL and anterior tibialis muscles lying adjacent to transplanted EDL muscles. In autotransplanted muscles, the cross-sectional area of the fibers shows a negative correlation with mean spike frequency and a positive correlation with mean amplitude. The mean frequency-amplitude products correlate with isometric tetanic tensions.", "contents": "Muscle fiber regeneration after transplantation: prediction of structure and physiology from electromyograms. Digitized electromyographic activity of transplanted extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles in cats differs from that of control EDL and anterior tibialis muscles lying adjacent to transplanted EDL muscles. In autotransplanted muscles, the cross-sectional area of the fibers shows a negative correlation with mean spike frequency and a positive correlation with mean amplitude. The mean frequency-amplitude products correlate with isometric tetanic tensions.", "PMID": 451552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9726", "title": "Low urinary estrogen glucuronides in women at risk for familial breast cancer.", "content": "Daily (12-hour) urine collections taken throughout the menstrual cycle were obtained from 30 young women who by genetic analysis were at risk for familial breast cancer, and from 30 control women carefully matched for age, height, and reproductive history. Steroids in the urine were extracted by glucuronidase hydrolysis, and the primary glucocorticoid, androgen, and estrogen hormones and their metabolites were measured by radioimmunoassay. Highly significant differences were observed only in the case of estrone and estradiol, with the high-risk subjects exhibiting lower values that the controls. This endocrine abnormality in young women at risk for breast cancer may be a potential discriminant for identifying women at risk for the disease in the population at large.", "contents": "Low urinary estrogen glucuronides in women at risk for familial breast cancer. Daily (12-hour) urine collections taken throughout the menstrual cycle were obtained from 30 young women who by genetic analysis were at risk for familial breast cancer, and from 30 control women carefully matched for age, height, and reproductive history. Steroids in the urine were extracted by glucuronidase hydrolysis, and the primary glucocorticoid, androgen, and estrogen hormones and their metabolites were measured by radioimmunoassay. Highly significant differences were observed only in the case of estrone and estradiol, with the high-risk subjects exhibiting lower values that the controls. This endocrine abnormality in young women at risk for breast cancer may be a potential discriminant for identifying women at risk for the disease in the population at large.", "PMID": 451553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9727", "title": "Racial differences in blood pressure control.", "content": "Children from an entire biracial geographical population were examined for blood pressure. A sample of 278 children, stratified by diastolic blood pressure, was reexamined 1 to 2 years later. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase, renin activity, and resting heart rate were observed in black and white children. In the group with high blood pressure, whites had higher heart rates and greater renin activity than blacks. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase concentrations in blacks were lower than in whites over the entire spectrum of blood pressure levels. High blood pressure seems to have a different metabolic background in the two races which may influence the early natural history of essential hypertension. Therefore, the rationale of prevention, and possibly treatment, of early hypertension in blacks and whites may differ.", "contents": "Racial differences in blood pressure control. Children from an entire biracial geographical population were examined for blood pressure. A sample of 278 children, stratified by diastolic blood pressure, was reexamined 1 to 2 years later. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase, renin activity, and resting heart rate were observed in black and white children. In the group with high blood pressure, whites had higher heart rates and greater renin activity than blacks. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase concentrations in blacks were lower than in whites over the entire spectrum of blood pressure levels. High blood pressure seems to have a different metabolic background in the two races which may influence the early natural history of essential hypertension. Therefore, the rationale of prevention, and possibly treatment, of early hypertension in blacks and whites may differ.", "PMID": 451554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9728", "title": "Experimental allergic neuritis induced by sensitization with galactocerebroside.", "content": "Thirteen of 31 rabbits immunized repeatedly with bovine brain galactocerebroside developed experimental allergic neuritis, manifested by flaccid paresis and hypesthesia of four limbs, 2 to 11 months after the initial inoculation. Electrophysiological studies revealed multifocal conduction block of peripheral nerves. Perivenular demyelinative lesions associated with phagocytic mononuclear cells occurred in spinal ganglia, roots, and less frequently in distal nerves.", "contents": "Experimental allergic neuritis induced by sensitization with galactocerebroside. Thirteen of 31 rabbits immunized repeatedly with bovine brain galactocerebroside developed experimental allergic neuritis, manifested by flaccid paresis and hypesthesia of four limbs, 2 to 11 months after the initial inoculation. Electrophysiological studies revealed multifocal conduction block of peripheral nerves. Perivenular demyelinative lesions associated with phagocytic mononuclear cells occurred in spinal ganglia, roots, and less frequently in distal nerves.", "PMID": 451555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9729", "title": "GABA receptor control of parasympathetic outflow to heart: characterization and brainstem localization.", "content": "Blockade of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor function by direct microinjection of the GABA receptor antagonist bicuculline into the nucleus ambiguus of the brainstem produced a marked, dose-related depression of heart rate and blood pressure which was mediated by the vagus nerve. This effect was not obtained in other regions of the brainstem and was reversed by the GABA receptor agonist muscimol. These data indicate that the nucleus ambiguus may be the site of a GABA receptor-mediated inhibition of vagal outflow.", "contents": "GABA receptor control of parasympathetic outflow to heart: characterization and brainstem localization. Blockade of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor function by direct microinjection of the GABA receptor antagonist bicuculline into the nucleus ambiguus of the brainstem produced a marked, dose-related depression of heart rate and blood pressure which was mediated by the vagus nerve. This effect was not obtained in other regions of the brainstem and was reversed by the GABA receptor agonist muscimol. These data indicate that the nucleus ambiguus may be the site of a GABA receptor-mediated inhibition of vagal outflow.", "PMID": 451556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9730", "title": "Alteration of cortical orientation selectivity: importance of asymmetric input.", "content": "Rearing cats so that each of the two eyes sees stripes of a different orientation alters the orientation preference of visual cortex cells. This result can be obtained by rearing the cats in striped cylinders or with goggles attached to their faces, but a tighter control of orientation preference is achieved by the goggles.", "contents": "Alteration of cortical orientation selectivity: importance of asymmetric input. Rearing cats so that each of the two eyes sees stripes of a different orientation alters the orientation preference of visual cortex cells. This result can be obtained by rearing the cats in striped cylinders or with goggles attached to their faces, but a tighter control of orientation preference is achieved by the goggles.", "PMID": 451557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9731", "title": "The forebrain is not essential for sympathoadrenal hyperglycemic response to glucoprivation.", "content": "The reduction of glycolysis by hypoglycemia or the glucose analog 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) stimulates compensatory sympathetic alterations of metabolism. Considerable attention has been focused on the hypothalamus as the probable locus of requisite metabolic signal detection. We report, however, that unanesthetized chronically decerebrate rats are capable of exhibiting sympathoadrenal hyperglycemia in response to the metabolic challenge presented by 2DG. This findings demonstrates that the forebrain is not necessary for glucoprivic stimulation of this reflex. Since cervical cord transection has been shown to eliminate hyperglycemia induced by 2DG, we conclude that the caudal brainstem contains an essential part of the neural mechanism which both detects metabolic need and ameliorates that need through the release of stored fuels.", "contents": "The forebrain is not essential for sympathoadrenal hyperglycemic response to glucoprivation. The reduction of glycolysis by hypoglycemia or the glucose analog 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) stimulates compensatory sympathetic alterations of metabolism. Considerable attention has been focused on the hypothalamus as the probable locus of requisite metabolic signal detection. We report, however, that unanesthetized chronically decerebrate rats are capable of exhibiting sympathoadrenal hyperglycemia in response to the metabolic challenge presented by 2DG. This findings demonstrates that the forebrain is not necessary for glucoprivic stimulation of this reflex. Since cervical cord transection has been shown to eliminate hyperglycemia induced by 2DG, we conclude that the caudal brainstem contains an essential part of the neural mechanism which both detects metabolic need and ameliorates that need through the release of stored fuels.", "PMID": 451558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9732", "title": "Structure of physiologically identified X and Y cells in the cat's lateral geniculate nucleus.", "content": "Horseradish peroxidase injected into 18 single, physiologically identified geniculate X and Y cells permitted a detailed morphological correlate to be determined for the physiological properties of each neuron. Class 1 morphological characteristics were associated with Y cells, class 3 with X cells, and class 2 structural traits were seen in both physiological types.", "contents": "Structure of physiologically identified X and Y cells in the cat's lateral geniculate nucleus. Horseradish peroxidase injected into 18 single, physiologically identified geniculate X and Y cells permitted a detailed morphological correlate to be determined for the physiological properties of each neuron. Class 1 morphological characteristics were associated with Y cells, class 3 with X cells, and class 2 structural traits were seen in both physiological types.", "PMID": 451559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9733", "title": "Intracephalic implants: a technique for studying neuronal interactions.", "content": "Implants of embryonic neural tissue from all regions of the neuraxis survive grafting to the brains of adult rats. After implantation, neurogenesis and differentiation continue, and connections are formed with the mature host brain. Thus, the intracephalic implants provide excellent model systems for studying cellular interactions that regulate synaptogenesis and determine the cytoarchitectonic organization of developing neural tissues.", "contents": "Intracephalic implants: a technique for studying neuronal interactions. Implants of embryonic neural tissue from all regions of the neuraxis survive grafting to the brains of adult rats. After implantation, neurogenesis and differentiation continue, and connections are formed with the mature host brain. Thus, the intracephalic implants provide excellent model systems for studying cellular interactions that regulate synaptogenesis and determine the cytoarchitectonic organization of developing neural tissues.", "PMID": 451560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9734", "title": "Partially modified retro-inverso-enkephalinamides: topochemical long-acting analogs in vitro and in vivo.", "content": "The synthesis of four enkephalinamide analogs is described in which the peptide bond between residues 4 and 5 is reversed with or without simultaneous reversal of the carboxyl-terminal amide bond. These so-called partially modified retro-inverso-isomers are new, potent, topochemical analogs of the enkephalins. Tests, both in vitro and in vivo, have shown that these analogs are considerably longer acting than any previously studied enkephalins. Thus, partial reversal of the peptide bonds of the backbone can result in peptides with enhanced activity compared to a parent compound, provide that the structural complementarity of both the side chains and end groups are conserved.", "contents": "Partially modified retro-inverso-enkephalinamides: topochemical long-acting analogs in vitro and in vivo. The synthesis of four enkephalinamide analogs is described in which the peptide bond between residues 4 and 5 is reversed with or without simultaneous reversal of the carboxyl-terminal amide bond. These so-called partially modified retro-inverso-isomers are new, potent, topochemical analogs of the enkephalins. Tests, both in vitro and in vivo, have shown that these analogs are considerably longer acting than any previously studied enkephalins. Thus, partial reversal of the peptide bonds of the backbone can result in peptides with enhanced activity compared to a parent compound, provide that the structural complementarity of both the side chains and end groups are conserved.", "PMID": 451565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9735", "title": "Diffusion-like process can account for protein secretion by the pancreas.", "content": "When fluid secretion by the pancreas was mechanically blocked, amylase secretion into the duct ceased. When flow was reduced in a graded fashion by the application of a back pressure, amylase output was reduced proportionately and amylase concentration in secretion was maintained constant. Thus, the secretion of digestive enzyme from the cell into the duct appears to be dependent upon the concentration of enzyme in the duct system. This behavior is most simply explained by diffusion-like (concentration dependent, bidirectional) fluxes of digestive enzyme across the plasma membrane. A unidirectional process, such as exocytosis, whose rate should be unaffected by fluid flow, cannot readily explain these results.", "contents": "Diffusion-like process can account for protein secretion by the pancreas. When fluid secretion by the pancreas was mechanically blocked, amylase secretion into the duct ceased. When flow was reduced in a graded fashion by the application of a back pressure, amylase output was reduced proportionately and amylase concentration in secretion was maintained constant. Thus, the secretion of digestive enzyme from the cell into the duct appears to be dependent upon the concentration of enzyme in the duct system. This behavior is most simply explained by diffusion-like (concentration dependent, bidirectional) fluxes of digestive enzyme across the plasma membrane. A unidirectional process, such as exocytosis, whose rate should be unaffected by fluid flow, cannot readily explain these results.", "PMID": 451566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9736", "title": "Tissue perfusion rate determined from the decay of oxygen-15 activity after photon activation in situ.", "content": "Rates of cerebral perfusion were obtained from measurements of the disappearance (wash-out) of oxygen-15 after in situ tissue activation with 45-million-volt x-rays. In an anesthetized cat, typical values were 90 milliliters per minute per 100 grams of tissue, with 55 percent wash-out. In a specific radiotherapy patient, the value was 65 milliliters per minute per 100 grams of tissue, with 63 percent wash-out of oxygen-15 through incorporation into tissue water.", "contents": "Tissue perfusion rate determined from the decay of oxygen-15 activity after photon activation in situ. Rates of cerebral perfusion were obtained from measurements of the disappearance (wash-out) of oxygen-15 after in situ tissue activation with 45-million-volt x-rays. In an anesthetized cat, typical values were 90 milliliters per minute per 100 grams of tissue, with 55 percent wash-out. In a specific radiotherapy patient, the value was 65 milliliters per minute per 100 grams of tissue, with 63 percent wash-out of oxygen-15 through incorporation into tissue water.", "PMID": 451567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9737", "title": "C26 sterol in a human urine.", "content": "A new C26 sterol, 22-trans-27-norcholesta-5,22-dien-3 beta-ol, was found in the urine of a 6-year-old girl, with a clinical diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia of the salt losing type, accompanied by symptoms of mixed sex anatomy and skin pigmentation. The structure of the sterol was determined by comparison with the synthetic compound. The sterol was also detected in ther serum. This appears to be the first case in which a C26 sterol has occurred in mammalia.", "contents": "C26 sterol in a human urine. A new C26 sterol, 22-trans-27-norcholesta-5,22-dien-3 beta-ol, was found in the urine of a 6-year-old girl, with a clinical diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia of the salt losing type, accompanied by symptoms of mixed sex anatomy and skin pigmentation. The structure of the sterol was determined by comparison with the synthetic compound. The sterol was also detected in ther serum. This appears to be the first case in which a C26 sterol has occurred in mammalia.", "PMID": 451568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9738", "title": "Dendritic mechanisms underlying penicillin-induced epileptiform activity.", "content": "The action of penicillin on synaptically evoked dendritic activity was examined with the use of hippocampal slice preparations. Orthodormic activation of CA1 pyramidal neurons produced an excitatory-inhibitory postsynaptic potential sequence recorded intracellularly in the dendrites. Treatment with penicillin resulted in the appearance of spontaneous and synaptically evoked multipeaked field potentials and associated depolarization shifts and spike burst generation in CA1 cells. Intracellular recordings revealed that penicillin produced no detectable change in passive membrane properties of the postsynaptic dendrites. However, the inhibitory postsynaptic potential was suppressed by penicillin, resulting in the release of intrinsic dendritic burst firing during synaptic activation. These findings emphasize the role of normal patterns of dendritic burst generation in the production of intense neuronal discharge during penicillin-induced epileptiform activities.", "contents": "Dendritic mechanisms underlying penicillin-induced epileptiform activity. The action of penicillin on synaptically evoked dendritic activity was examined with the use of hippocampal slice preparations. Orthodormic activation of CA1 pyramidal neurons produced an excitatory-inhibitory postsynaptic potential sequence recorded intracellularly in the dendrites. Treatment with penicillin resulted in the appearance of spontaneous and synaptically evoked multipeaked field potentials and associated depolarization shifts and spike burst generation in CA1 cells. Intracellular recordings revealed that penicillin produced no detectable change in passive membrane properties of the postsynaptic dendrites. However, the inhibitory postsynaptic potential was suppressed by penicillin, resulting in the release of intrinsic dendritic burst firing during synaptic activation. These findings emphasize the role of normal patterns of dendritic burst generation in the production of intense neuronal discharge during penicillin-induced epileptiform activities.", "PMID": 451569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9739", "title": "Dynamic changes in circulating 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D during reproduction in rats.", "content": "The concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2D], calcium, and phosphorus were measured in the serum of rats during pregnancy and at various stages of lactation. The concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D hormone increased almost two-fold during pregnancy and the latter part of lactation, but decreased to control levels or very low values immediately after birth and weaning, respectively. Furthermore, the concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D was inversely correlated with the concentration of calcium, suggesting that circulating 1,25-(OH)2D fluctuates in concert with calcium demands during the reproductive cycle. Parathyroidectomy in lactating rats caused a 70 percent inhibition of the normally observed 1,25-(OH)2D increase, indicating that parathyroid hormone, in response to changes in serum calcium, is a primary modulator of 1,25-(OH)2D during lactation.", "contents": "Dynamic changes in circulating 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D during reproduction in rats. The concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2D], calcium, and phosphorus were measured in the serum of rats during pregnancy and at various stages of lactation. The concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D hormone increased almost two-fold during pregnancy and the latter part of lactation, but decreased to control levels or very low values immediately after birth and weaning, respectively. Furthermore, the concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D was inversely correlated with the concentration of calcium, suggesting that circulating 1,25-(OH)2D fluctuates in concert with calcium demands during the reproductive cycle. Parathyroidectomy in lactating rats caused a 70 percent inhibition of the normally observed 1,25-(OH)2D increase, indicating that parathyroid hormone, in response to changes in serum calcium, is a primary modulator of 1,25-(OH)2D during lactation.", "PMID": 451573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9740", "title": "Canine Babesia new to North America.", "content": "A domestic dog residing in New England suffered a fatal febrile illness caused by a Babesia infection. The morphology of these intraerythrocytic protozoa and the range of hosts that could be infected experimentally suggested that the parasite was B. gibsoni. Although this tick-bourne disease is enzootic in wild and domestic Canidae in Africa and Asia, it appears to be new to the Americas.", "contents": "Canine Babesia new to North America. A domestic dog residing in New England suffered a fatal febrile illness caused by a Babesia infection. The morphology of these intraerythrocytic protozoa and the range of hosts that could be infected experimentally suggested that the parasite was B. gibsoni. Although this tick-bourne disease is enzootic in wild and domestic Canidae in Africa and Asia, it appears to be new to the Americas.", "PMID": 451574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9741", "title": "Laterality for stereognostic accuracy of children for words, shapes, and bigrams: a sex difference for bigrams.", "content": "Children identified nonsense shapes by touch better with their left hand and words better with their right hand. Bigrams were processed by boys as shapes and by girls as words, which suggests a sexual dimorphism of brain functioning for bigrams. A relative specialization of the hemisphere for stereognostic processing is also suggested, since the accuracy of identification by both hands was greater than chance for all three types of stimuli.", "contents": "Laterality for stereognostic accuracy of children for words, shapes, and bigrams: a sex difference for bigrams. Children identified nonsense shapes by touch better with their left hand and words better with their right hand. Bigrams were processed by boys as shapes and by girls as words, which suggests a sexual dimorphism of brain functioning for bigrams. A relative specialization of the hemisphere for stereognostic processing is also suggested, since the accuracy of identification by both hands was greater than chance for all three types of stimuli.", "PMID": 451575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9742", "title": "Cholinergic neuronotrophic factors: intraocular distribution of trophic activity for ciliary neurons.", "content": "Chick ciliary ganglionic neurons require an interaction with their peripheral targets for survival during a critical period of their embryonic development in vivo. It has recently been shown that survival of these neurons in dissociated cell cultures is supported by extract from whole chick embryo. In this study, an assay system based on microwell cultures of ciliary ganglionic neurons was used to demonstrate that a very rich source of trophic factor for them is the intraocular target tissues they innervate. Out of 8000 trophic units present in a 12-day embryo, 2500 were contained in the eye. A subdissection of the eye showed its activity to be localized in a fraction containing the ciliary body and choroid coat, with a specific activity almost 20-fold higher than that of the whole embryo. This selective intraocular distribution at a time when survival or death of ciliary ganglionic neurons is decided in vivo suggests that this soluble factor may be involved in the normal development of the ciliary ganglion.", "contents": "Cholinergic neuronotrophic factors: intraocular distribution of trophic activity for ciliary neurons. Chick ciliary ganglionic neurons require an interaction with their peripheral targets for survival during a critical period of their embryonic development in vivo. It has recently been shown that survival of these neurons in dissociated cell cultures is supported by extract from whole chick embryo. In this study, an assay system based on microwell cultures of ciliary ganglionic neurons was used to demonstrate that a very rich source of trophic factor for them is the intraocular target tissues they innervate. Out of 8000 trophic units present in a 12-day embryo, 2500 were contained in the eye. A subdissection of the eye showed its activity to be localized in a fraction containing the ciliary body and choroid coat, with a specific activity almost 20-fold higher than that of the whole embryo. This selective intraocular distribution at a time when survival or death of ciliary ganglionic neurons is decided in vivo suggests that this soluble factor may be involved in the normal development of the ciliary ganglion.", "PMID": 451576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9743", "title": "Goldfish retina: a correlate between cone activity and morphology of the horizontal cell in clone pedicules.", "content": "In the cone pedicules, the digitations of horizontal cell process lateral to the synaptic ribbon disappear after dark adaptation. This disappearance is correlated with the loss of color opponency and cone function shown in ganglion cell recordings in isolated retinas. Cone function and color-opponent responses are restored by reapplying background light.", "contents": "Goldfish retina: a correlate between cone activity and morphology of the horizontal cell in clone pedicules. In the cone pedicules, the digitations of horizontal cell process lateral to the synaptic ribbon disappear after dark adaptation. This disappearance is correlated with the loss of color opponency and cone function shown in ganglion cell recordings in isolated retinas. Cone function and color-opponent responses are restored by reapplying background light.", "PMID": 451577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9744", "title": "Automatic classification of electroencephalograms: Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor rules.", "content": "A prototypic problem in screening of electroencephalograms in the automatic classification of stationary electroencephalogram time series is treated here by the Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor rule approach. In that problem, the category or state of an individual is classified by comparison of his or her electroencephalogram with those taken from other individuals in the alternative categories. The Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor classification rules yield a statistically reliable estimate of the smallest possible probability of electroencephalogram misclassification with a relatively small number of labeled sample electroencephalograms. The automatic classification of anesthesia levels L1 and L3, respectively the anesthesia levels insufficient and sufficient for deep surgery, is treated by machine computation on the electroencephalogram alone.", "contents": "Automatic classification of electroencephalograms: Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor rules. A prototypic problem in screening of electroencephalograms in the automatic classification of stationary electroencephalogram time series is treated here by the Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor rule approach. In that problem, the category or state of an individual is classified by comparison of his or her electroencephalogram with those taken from other individuals in the alternative categories. The Kullback-Leibler nearest neighbor classification rules yield a statistically reliable estimate of the smallest possible probability of electroencephalogram misclassification with a relatively small number of labeled sample electroencephalograms. The automatic classification of anesthesia levels L1 and L3, respectively the anesthesia levels insufficient and sufficient for deep surgery, is treated by machine computation on the electroencephalogram alone.", "PMID": 451587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9745", "title": "Hyperthermia and local anesthetics: potentiation of survival of tumor-bearing mice.", "content": "Lidocaine infusion of a CA755 mammary adenocarcinoma growing in the hind leg of BDF1 mice results in a significant increase in the animals' survival when combined with heating for 1 hour in a 43.5 degrees C water bath. This ability of local anesthetics to prolong survival following hyperthermia is consistent with the hypothesis that increases in membrane fluidity influence sensitivity to heat. In view of the extensive clinical experience with local anesthetics, the delay between clinical application and the observation that they potentiate the action of hyperthermia in animals may be reduced.", "contents": "Hyperthermia and local anesthetics: potentiation of survival of tumor-bearing mice. Lidocaine infusion of a CA755 mammary adenocarcinoma growing in the hind leg of BDF1 mice results in a significant increase in the animals' survival when combined with heating for 1 hour in a 43.5 degrees C water bath. This ability of local anesthetics to prolong survival following hyperthermia is consistent with the hypothesis that increases in membrane fluidity influence sensitivity to heat. In view of the extensive clinical experience with local anesthetics, the delay between clinical application and the observation that they potentiate the action of hyperthermia in animals may be reduced.", "PMID": 451588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9746", "title": "Non-A, non-B hepatitis: ultrastructural evidence for two agents in experimentally infected chimpanzees.", "content": "Two different ultrastructural alterations were observed in liver cells of chimpanzees inoculated with plasma derived from two different patients with non-A, non-B hepatitis. During the acute phase of illness in one group of four chimpanzees, peculiar tubular structures, composed of two unit membranes with electron-opaque material in between, were observed in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. In contrast, these structures were never detected in the liver cells of the second group of five chimpanzees that received the second inoculum, However, nuclear changes, usually associated with aggregates of 20- to 27-nanometer particles, were found in hepatocytes of the latter animals. Although these particles resembled viruses, they were not as uniform as small virus particles often appear. In five other chimpanzees inoculated with non-A, non-B hepatitis material not known to be related to the first two inocula, cytoplasmic structures were found in four, and nuclear structures were found in the remaining one. Thus, all 14 chimpanzees inoculated with transmissible non-A, non-B hepatitis agents could be classified as having either nuclear or cytoplasmic changes. These observations add support to epidemiologic data suggesting that there may be more than one agent of non-A, non-B hepatitis.", "contents": "Non-A, non-B hepatitis: ultrastructural evidence for two agents in experimentally infected chimpanzees. Two different ultrastructural alterations were observed in liver cells of chimpanzees inoculated with plasma derived from two different patients with non-A, non-B hepatitis. During the acute phase of illness in one group of four chimpanzees, peculiar tubular structures, composed of two unit membranes with electron-opaque material in between, were observed in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. In contrast, these structures were never detected in the liver cells of the second group of five chimpanzees that received the second inoculum, However, nuclear changes, usually associated with aggregates of 20- to 27-nanometer particles, were found in hepatocytes of the latter animals. Although these particles resembled viruses, they were not as uniform as small virus particles often appear. In five other chimpanzees inoculated with non-A, non-B hepatitis material not known to be related to the first two inocula, cytoplasmic structures were found in four, and nuclear structures were found in the remaining one. Thus, all 14 chimpanzees inoculated with transmissible non-A, non-B hepatitis agents could be classified as having either nuclear or cytoplasmic changes. These observations add support to epidemiologic data suggesting that there may be more than one agent of non-A, non-B hepatitis.", "PMID": 451589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9747", "title": "Erythrocytes: a new cell type for the evaluation of insulin receptor defects in diabetic humans.", "content": "Human erythrocytes have specific insulin receptors. When studied in an insulin radioreceptor assay, erythrocytes from adult-onset, nonobese diabetic subjects bound at least 42 percent less insulin than the normal subjects at insulin concentrations from 0.1 to 100 nanograms per milliliter. The diabetic subjects had 190 insulin receptor sites per cell as compared with the 380 insulin receptor sites per cell for the normal subjects. The deficit of insulin binding in the diabetic subject was thus associated with a fewer number of insulin binding sites per cell with little or no change in affinity. The erythrocyte is a readily available cell for the evaluation of cellular insulin receptor activity.", "contents": "Erythrocytes: a new cell type for the evaluation of insulin receptor defects in diabetic humans. Human erythrocytes have specific insulin receptors. When studied in an insulin radioreceptor assay, erythrocytes from adult-onset, nonobese diabetic subjects bound at least 42 percent less insulin than the normal subjects at insulin concentrations from 0.1 to 100 nanograms per milliliter. The diabetic subjects had 190 insulin receptor sites per cell as compared with the 380 insulin receptor sites per cell for the normal subjects. The deficit of insulin binding in the diabetic subject was thus associated with a fewer number of insulin binding sites per cell with little or no change in affinity. The erythrocyte is a readily available cell for the evaluation of cellular insulin receptor activity.", "PMID": 451590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9748", "title": "Feeding and behavioral activation in infant rats.", "content": "Three-day-old rats that were separated from their mothers and deprived of food were found to be capable of feeding either from small puddles of milk or when milk was infused into the front of their mouths. Such feeding was accompanied by a dramatic increase in behavioral activity and only occurred in a warm environment. These data demonstrate that neural systems for ingestive behavior are present at birth and suggest the existence of feeding-related arousal or motivational systems.", "contents": "Feeding and behavioral activation in infant rats. Three-day-old rats that were separated from their mothers and deprived of food were found to be capable of feeding either from small puddles of milk or when milk was infused into the front of their mouths. Such feeding was accompanied by a dramatic increase in behavioral activity and only occurred in a warm environment. These data demonstrate that neural systems for ingestive behavior are present at birth and suggest the existence of feeding-related arousal or motivational systems.", "PMID": 451591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9749", "title": "Medial septal lesions retard classical conditioning of the nicitating membrane response in rabbits.", "content": "Lesions of the medial septum were produced in 7 of 14 rabbits prior to classical conditioning of the nictitating membrane response. Lesions significantly altered the hippocampal electroencephalogram, attenuated conditioned hippocampal unit responses, and slowed the behavioral rate of acquisition. The contrast of the behavioral results with those of studies of massive septal or hippocampal ablation suggests a functional subdivision of the septo-hippocampal system in learning.", "contents": "Medial septal lesions retard classical conditioning of the nicitating membrane response in rabbits. Lesions of the medial septum were produced in 7 of 14 rabbits prior to classical conditioning of the nictitating membrane response. Lesions significantly altered the hippocampal electroencephalogram, attenuated conditioned hippocampal unit responses, and slowed the behavioral rate of acquisition. The contrast of the behavioral results with those of studies of massive septal or hippocampal ablation suggests a functional subdivision of the septo-hippocampal system in learning.", "PMID": 451592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9750", "title": "Host defense against Neisseria meningitidis requires a complement-dependent bactericidal activity.", "content": "Some individuals, with severe or recurrent infection with Neisseria species, have been identified as lacking a component in the terminal attack sequence of complement (complement components 5 to 9). The relevance of the terminal attack sequence to various phases of host defense was tested with the use of the C-11 strain of meningococci and human serum genetically deficient in complement component 8 (C8-D). The C8-D serum was comparable to normal serum in supporting ingestion and intracellular killing by leukocytes but was not bactericidal in the fluid phase unless reconstituted with C8. Thus, serum complement-dependent bactericidal activity may be especially critical for the host's defense against invasive Neisseria species.", "contents": "Host defense against Neisseria meningitidis requires a complement-dependent bactericidal activity. Some individuals, with severe or recurrent infection with Neisseria species, have been identified as lacking a component in the terminal attack sequence of complement (complement components 5 to 9). The relevance of the terminal attack sequence to various phases of host defense was tested with the use of the C-11 strain of meningococci and human serum genetically deficient in complement component 8 (C8-D). The C8-D serum was comparable to normal serum in supporting ingestion and intracellular killing by leukocytes but was not bactericidal in the fluid phase unless reconstituted with C8. Thus, serum complement-dependent bactericidal activity may be especially critical for the host's defense against invasive Neisseria species.", "PMID": 451601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9751", "title": "Transmitter-specific retrograde labeling in the striato-nigral and raphe-nigral pathways.", "content": "Injecting radioactive transmitters into the rat substantia nigra led to retrograde neuronal labeling either in the dorsal raphe nucleus, after 3H-labeled serotonin injection, or in the caudoputamen, after 3H-labeled gamma-aminobutyric acid injection. This differential labeling in projections whose transmitter has been established provides the basis for a histochemical tracing method indicating both connectivity and transmitter specificity of neural pathways.", "contents": "Transmitter-specific retrograde labeling in the striato-nigral and raphe-nigral pathways. Injecting radioactive transmitters into the rat substantia nigra led to retrograde neuronal labeling either in the dorsal raphe nucleus, after 3H-labeled serotonin injection, or in the caudoputamen, after 3H-labeled gamma-aminobutyric acid injection. This differential labeling in projections whose transmitter has been established provides the basis for a histochemical tracing method indicating both connectivity and transmitter specificity of neural pathways.", "PMID": 451602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9752", "title": "Hybrid ape offspring of a mating of gibbon and siamang.", "content": "The serendipitous mating of a male gibbon, Hylobates moloch, and a female siamang, Symphalangus syndactylus, has produced two female offspring born 1 year apart. The hybrid karyotype of 47 chromosomes comprises the haploid complements of the parental species, 22 for the gibbon and 25 for the siamang. Chromosomal G and C banding comparisons revealed no clear homologies between the parental karyotypes except for the single chromosome in each species containing the nucleolus organizer region. The lack of homology suggests that the structural rearrangement of chromosomes has played a major role in the process of speciation for these lesser apes.", "contents": "Hybrid ape offspring of a mating of gibbon and siamang. The serendipitous mating of a male gibbon, Hylobates moloch, and a female siamang, Symphalangus syndactylus, has produced two female offspring born 1 year apart. The hybrid karyotype of 47 chromosomes comprises the haploid complements of the parental species, 22 for the gibbon and 25 for the siamang. Chromosomal G and C banding comparisons revealed no clear homologies between the parental karyotypes except for the single chromosome in each species containing the nucleolus organizer region. The lack of homology suggests that the structural rearrangement of chromosomes has played a major role in the process of speciation for these lesser apes.", "PMID": 451603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9753", "title": "Visually guided locomotion: psychophysical evidence for a neural mechanism sensitive to flow patterns.", "content": "Inspecting a radial flow pattern depressed visual sensitivity to changes in the size of a small test square, but only when the square was located near the focus of the flow pattern. The result suggests that precise visual judgments of one's direction of forward motion with respect to the outside world may be mediated by an already known neural organization sensitive to changes in the size of small objects.", "contents": "Visually guided locomotion: psychophysical evidence for a neural mechanism sensitive to flow patterns. Inspecting a radial flow pattern depressed visual sensitivity to changes in the size of a small test square, but only when the square was located near the focus of the flow pattern. The result suggests that precise visual judgments of one's direction of forward motion with respect to the outside world may be mediated by an already known neural organization sensitive to changes in the size of small objects.", "PMID": 451604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9754", "title": "Noradrenergic innervation of cerebral cortex: widespread effects of local cortical lesions.", "content": "The trajectory of the intracortical noradrenergic fibers has been characterized by histochemical analysis following the production of cortical lesions in the rate. A large group of noradrenergic fibers enters the cortex at the frontal pole and proceeds caudally through the deep layers of dorsolateral cortex. Branches arise from these longitudinally directed fibers and form a uniform pattern of innervation throughout lateral cortex. Because these fibers travel long distances rostrocaudally within the gray matter, a large area of cortex can be deprived of noradrenergic innervation by a relatively small lesion of frontal cortex. The medial and lateral cortex can be selectively and differentially denervated of noradrenergic fibers, and there is a medial to lateral topographic relationship between deep longitudinally running fibers and overlying cortex.", "contents": "Noradrenergic innervation of cerebral cortex: widespread effects of local cortical lesions. The trajectory of the intracortical noradrenergic fibers has been characterized by histochemical analysis following the production of cortical lesions in the rate. A large group of noradrenergic fibers enters the cortex at the frontal pole and proceeds caudally through the deep layers of dorsolateral cortex. Branches arise from these longitudinally directed fibers and form a uniform pattern of innervation throughout lateral cortex. Because these fibers travel long distances rostrocaudally within the gray matter, a large area of cortex can be deprived of noradrenergic innervation by a relatively small lesion of frontal cortex. The medial and lateral cortex can be selectively and differentially denervated of noradrenergic fibers, and there is a medial to lateral topographic relationship between deep longitudinally running fibers and overlying cortex.", "PMID": 451605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9755", "title": "Opiate antagonists: a role in the treatment of hypovolemic shock.", "content": "The opiate antagonist naloxone has been used to treat shock following acute blood loss in conscious rats. Naloxone treatment rapidly increased mean arterial pressure and pulse pressure in this new shock model. More importantly, these blood pressure changes were sustained and survival was significantly increased with maloxone as compared with placebo treatment. From these findings, it may be inferred that endorphins may play a role in the pathophysiology of hypovolemic shock. It is suggested that narcotic antagonists may prove to be of therapeutic value in the treatment of shock.", "contents": "Opiate antagonists: a role in the treatment of hypovolemic shock. The opiate antagonist naloxone has been used to treat shock following acute blood loss in conscious rats. Naloxone treatment rapidly increased mean arterial pressure and pulse pressure in this new shock model. More importantly, these blood pressure changes were sustained and survival was significantly increased with maloxone as compared with placebo treatment. From these findings, it may be inferred that endorphins may play a role in the pathophysiology of hypovolemic shock. It is suggested that narcotic antagonists may prove to be of therapeutic value in the treatment of shock.", "PMID": 451606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9756", "title": "Sucrose consumption early in life fails to modify the appetite of adult rats for sweet foods.", "content": "Male rats consumed a diet containing 0, 12, or 48 percent sucrose on days 16 to 30 of life. Thereafter, they had simultaneous access to all three diets until day 63. No relationship was detected between sucrose consumption early in life and subsequent preference for sucrose. The onset of puberty was associated with a decreased appetite for sucrose among animals of both sexes.", "contents": "Sucrose consumption early in life fails to modify the appetite of adult rats for sweet foods. Male rats consumed a diet containing 0, 12, or 48 percent sucrose on days 16 to 30 of life. Thereafter, they had simultaneous access to all three diets until day 63. No relationship was detected between sucrose consumption early in life and subsequent preference for sucrose. The onset of puberty was associated with a decreased appetite for sucrose among animals of both sexes.", "PMID": 451607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9757", "title": "Ketone bodies are selectively used by individual brain regions.", "content": "Close study of 3-hydroxybutyrate uptake by brain suggests that its metabolism is limited by permeability. Furthermore, the permeability characteristics vary from region to region; areas known to have no blood-brain barrier show the highest rate of utilization. The results imply that rather than substitute fuels, ketone bodies should be considered supplements which partially supply specific areas but are incapable of supporting the entire energy requirement of all brain regions.", "contents": "Ketone bodies are selectively used by individual brain regions. Close study of 3-hydroxybutyrate uptake by brain suggests that its metabolism is limited by permeability. Furthermore, the permeability characteristics vary from region to region; areas known to have no blood-brain barrier show the highest rate of utilization. The results imply that rather than substitute fuels, ketone bodies should be considered supplements which partially supply specific areas but are incapable of supporting the entire energy requirement of all brain regions.", "PMID": 451608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9758", "title": "Erythrosin B inhibits dopamine transport in rat caudate synaptosomes.", "content": "Erythrosin B is a member of a class of fluorescein dyes that are suggested to elicit hyperkinesis when ingested by susceptible children. We found that erythrosin B inhibits dopamine uptake in rat caudate synaptosomes \"uncompetitively\" in the 10- to 800-micromolar range. Half maximal inhibition of uptake occurred at 45 micromolar. Uncompetitive inhibition denotes a decrease in efficacy of the dopamine membrane transport mechanism with an increase in affinity of dopamine to the carrier. Erythrosin B also decreased nonsaturable binding of dopamine to the synaptosome membrane. The inhibitory action of erythrosin B on dopamine uptake is consistent with the hypothesis that erythrosin B can act as a central excitatory agent able to induce hyperkinetic behavior.", "contents": "Erythrosin B inhibits dopamine transport in rat caudate synaptosomes. Erythrosin B is a member of a class of fluorescein dyes that are suggested to elicit hyperkinesis when ingested by susceptible children. We found that erythrosin B inhibits dopamine uptake in rat caudate synaptosomes \"uncompetitively\" in the 10- to 800-micromolar range. Half maximal inhibition of uptake occurred at 45 micromolar. Uncompetitive inhibition denotes a decrease in efficacy of the dopamine membrane transport mechanism with an increase in affinity of dopamine to the carrier. Erythrosin B also decreased nonsaturable binding of dopamine to the synaptosome membrane. The inhibitory action of erythrosin B on dopamine uptake is consistent with the hypothesis that erythrosin B can act as a central excitatory agent able to induce hyperkinetic behavior.", "PMID": 451609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9759", "title": "Opioid peptides may excite hippocampal pyramidal neurons by inhibiting adjacent inhibitory interneurons.", "content": "The atypical excitation by opiates and opioid peptides of hippocampal pyramidal cells can be antagonized by iontophoresis of naloxone, the gamma-aminobutyric acid antagonists bicuculline, or magnesium ion. The recurrent inhibition of these cells evoked by transcallosal stimulation of the contralateral hippocampus is blocked by enkephalin but only shortened by acetylcholine. The results suggest that the opioids excite pyramidal neurons indirectly by inhibition of neighboring inhibitory interneurons (probably containing gamma-aminobutyric acid). This mechanism may be pertinent to the electrographic signs of addictive drugs.", "contents": "Opioid peptides may excite hippocampal pyramidal neurons by inhibiting adjacent inhibitory interneurons. The atypical excitation by opiates and opioid peptides of hippocampal pyramidal cells can be antagonized by iontophoresis of naloxone, the gamma-aminobutyric acid antagonists bicuculline, or magnesium ion. The recurrent inhibition of these cells evoked by transcallosal stimulation of the contralateral hippocampus is blocked by enkephalin but only shortened by acetylcholine. The results suggest that the opioids excite pyramidal neurons indirectly by inhibition of neighboring inhibitory interneurons (probably containing gamma-aminobutyric acid). This mechanism may be pertinent to the electrographic signs of addictive drugs.", "PMID": 451610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9760", "title": "Sensitization in Aplysia: restoration of transmission in synapses inactivated by long-term habituation.", "content": "Long-term habituation of a simple withdrawal reflex in Aplysia leads to an inactivation of synaptic transmission between identified sensory and gill motor neurons that persists for more than 3 weeks. A single sensitizing stimulus rapidly reactivates both the depressed behavioral response and the inactivated synaptic transmission. Thus sensitization, a simple competitive form of learning, provides a mechanism whereby changing environmental demands can rapidly override the long-term memory of habituation.", "contents": "Sensitization in Aplysia: restoration of transmission in synapses inactivated by long-term habituation. Long-term habituation of a simple withdrawal reflex in Aplysia leads to an inactivation of synaptic transmission between identified sensory and gill motor neurons that persists for more than 3 weeks. A single sensitizing stimulus rapidly reactivates both the depressed behavioral response and the inactivated synaptic transmission. Thus sensitization, a simple competitive form of learning, provides a mechanism whereby changing environmental demands can rapidly override the long-term memory of habituation.", "PMID": 451611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9761", "title": "Appetitive learning in 1-day-old rat pups.", "content": "One-day-old rat pups learned to probe upward into a terry-cloth-covered paddle when they were rewarded with small infusions of milk into their mouths. In the presence of two paddles, discriminable on the basis of odor and position in the test container, the pups learned to probe into the paddle that provided them with milk. These experiments demonstrate (i) that milk may serve as a reinforcer to deprived rat pups and (ii) that pups as young as 1 day are capable of appetitive learning.", "contents": "Appetitive learning in 1-day-old rat pups. One-day-old rat pups learned to probe upward into a terry-cloth-covered paddle when they were rewarded with small infusions of milk into their mouths. In the presence of two paddles, discriminable on the basis of odor and position in the test container, the pups learned to probe into the paddle that provided them with milk. These experiments demonstrate (i) that milk may serve as a reinforcer to deprived rat pups and (ii) that pups as young as 1 day are capable of appetitive learning.", "PMID": 451612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9762", "title": "Reversal potential for noradrenaline-induced hyperpolarization of spinal motoneurons.", "content": "By using two separate electrodes with tips inside a single feline motoneuron, current-voltage characteristics were studied during extracellular iontophoresis of noradrenaline. The usually observed hyperpolarization was accompanied by an increase in membrane resistance and became larger with polarizing and smaller with depolarizing currents. During large depolarizing current injections, the noradrenaline-induced potential reversed its direction, usually at a membrane potential of about -20 millivolts. These data are compatible with the concept that noradrenaline hyperpolarizes nerve cells by decreasing resting membrane conductances to sodium and potassium ions. The observation could also be explained by a nonspecific decrease in ion permeability that is associated with a hyperpolarization due to sodium pump activation.", "contents": "Reversal potential for noradrenaline-induced hyperpolarization of spinal motoneurons. By using two separate electrodes with tips inside a single feline motoneuron, current-voltage characteristics were studied during extracellular iontophoresis of noradrenaline. The usually observed hyperpolarization was accompanied by an increase in membrane resistance and became larger with polarizing and smaller with depolarizing currents. During large depolarizing current injections, the noradrenaline-induced potential reversed its direction, usually at a membrane potential of about -20 millivolts. These data are compatible with the concept that noradrenaline hyperpolarizes nerve cells by decreasing resting membrane conductances to sodium and potassium ions. The observation could also be explained by a nonspecific decrease in ion permeability that is associated with a hyperpolarization due to sodium pump activation.", "PMID": 451613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9763", "title": "Histofluorescence techniques provide evidence for dopamine-containing neuronal elements in canine kidney.", "content": "Changes induced by hydrochloric acid in the excitation spectrum of catecholamine fluorophores associated with the innervation of the canine renal vasculature show that there are neuronal elements at the glomerular vascular poles containing predominantly dopamine. In contrast, the catecholamine fluorescence in the periadventitial layer of the arcuate arteries is derived from norepinephrine. The dopamine-containing structures may represent the prejunctional counterpart to the pharmacologically identified dopamine receptors in the renal vasculature. As such, this system may be involved in the normal regulation of renal blood flow and renin release.", "contents": "Histofluorescence techniques provide evidence for dopamine-containing neuronal elements in canine kidney. Changes induced by hydrochloric acid in the excitation spectrum of catecholamine fluorophores associated with the innervation of the canine renal vasculature show that there are neuronal elements at the glomerular vascular poles containing predominantly dopamine. In contrast, the catecholamine fluorescence in the periadventitial layer of the arcuate arteries is derived from norepinephrine. The dopamine-containing structures may represent the prejunctional counterpart to the pharmacologically identified dopamine receptors in the renal vasculature. As such, this system may be involved in the normal regulation of renal blood flow and renin release.", "PMID": 451614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9764", "title": "Iodide-induced hypothyroidism: a potential hazard during perinatal life.", "content": "The administration of iodide to pregnant and nursing rats induces hypothyroidism in the term fetus and neonatal rat through age 10 days as indicated by an increase in the serum concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone and a decrease in the serum of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Thyroid function returned to normal from age 18 through 60 days in spite of continued iodide administration, strongly suggesting that resistance to the inhibitory effect of iodide on thyroid hormone synthesis is developed at approximately 18 days of age. This perinatal rat model can be used to study the mechanisms responsible for iodide-induced hypothyroidism and goiter in human newborns whose mothers received iodide-containing medications during pregnancy.", "contents": "Iodide-induced hypothyroidism: a potential hazard during perinatal life. The administration of iodide to pregnant and nursing rats induces hypothyroidism in the term fetus and neonatal rat through age 10 days as indicated by an increase in the serum concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone and a decrease in the serum of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Thyroid function returned to normal from age 18 through 60 days in spite of continued iodide administration, strongly suggesting that resistance to the inhibitory effect of iodide on thyroid hormone synthesis is developed at approximately 18 days of age. This perinatal rat model can be used to study the mechanisms responsible for iodide-induced hypothyroidism and goiter in human newborns whose mothers received iodide-containing medications during pregnancy.", "PMID": 451615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9765", "title": "Platelet aggregation induced by ultrasound under specialized conditions in vitro.", "content": "Human platelets were induced by 2.1-megahertz ultrasound to form aggregates around gas-filled pores in membranes immersed in platelet-rich plasma. The spatial peak intensities required were only about 16 to 32 milliwatts per square centimeter. Ultrasound generated by a medical Doppler device, whose intensity exceeded this, induced aggregate formation under the same conditions.", "contents": "Platelet aggregation induced by ultrasound under specialized conditions in vitro. Human platelets were induced by 2.1-megahertz ultrasound to form aggregates around gas-filled pores in membranes immersed in platelet-rich plasma. The spatial peak intensities required were only about 16 to 32 milliwatts per square centimeter. Ultrasound generated by a medical Doppler device, whose intensity exceeded this, induced aggregate formation under the same conditions.", "PMID": 451616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9766", "title": "Dissociations between the effects of LSD on behavior and raphe unit activity in freely moving cats.", "content": "The hypothesis that the action of hallucinogenic drugs is mediated by a depression of the activity of brain serotonergic (raphe) neurons was tested by examining the behavioral effects of d-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) while studying the activity of raphe neurons in freely moving cats. Although the results provide general support for the hypothesis, there were several important dissociations. (i) Low doses of LSD produced only small decreases in raphe unit activity but significant behavoiral changes; (ii) LSD-induced behavioral changes outlasted the depression of raphe unit activity; and (iii) raphe neurons were at least as responsive to LSD during tolerance as they were in the nontolerant condition.", "contents": "Dissociations between the effects of LSD on behavior and raphe unit activity in freely moving cats. The hypothesis that the action of hallucinogenic drugs is mediated by a depression of the activity of brain serotonergic (raphe) neurons was tested by examining the behavioral effects of d-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) while studying the activity of raphe neurons in freely moving cats. Although the results provide general support for the hypothesis, there were several important dissociations. (i) Low doses of LSD produced only small decreases in raphe unit activity but significant behavoiral changes; (ii) LSD-induced behavioral changes outlasted the depression of raphe unit activity; and (iii) raphe neurons were at least as responsive to LSD during tolerance as they were in the nontolerant condition.", "PMID": 451617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9767", "title": "Should there be a commission on medical education?", "content": "In its premedical and preclinical phases our present scheme of education for medicine is intellectually deficient, wasteful of money and time, and in urgent need of overhaul. The author defines conditions under which a national commission might possibly set the educational process on the road to reform.", "contents": "Should there be a commission on medical education? In its premedical and preclinical phases our present scheme of education for medicine is intellectually deficient, wasteful of money and time, and in urgent need of overhaul. The author defines conditions under which a national commission might possibly set the educational process on the road to reform.", "PMID": 451620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9768", "title": "Albumin-deficient rat mutant.", "content": "An analbuminemic colony was established from Sprague-Dawley rats. Analbuminemia was inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. The rates of growth and reproduction of the mutant rats were no different from those of normal rats. Biochemically, the mutant was characterized by an extraordinarily low serum albumin content and a hyperlipidemia. Total serum protein in the mutant rat was similar to that of control Sprague-Dawley rats, with increased globulin. Serum cholesterol was inversely correlated with a decrease in albumin; the correlation coefficient for ablumin was --.92. These mutant rats may serve as a model of human familial analbuminemia and may also be useful in elucidating the functional roles of albumin.", "contents": "Albumin-deficient rat mutant. An analbuminemic colony was established from Sprague-Dawley rats. Analbuminemia was inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. The rates of growth and reproduction of the mutant rats were no different from those of normal rats. Biochemically, the mutant was characterized by an extraordinarily low serum albumin content and a hyperlipidemia. Total serum protein in the mutant rat was similar to that of control Sprague-Dawley rats, with increased globulin. Serum cholesterol was inversely correlated with a decrease in albumin; the correlation coefficient for ablumin was --.92. These mutant rats may serve as a model of human familial analbuminemia and may also be useful in elucidating the functional roles of albumin.", "PMID": 451621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9769", "title": "Endogenous inhibitor of colchicine-tubulin binding in rat brain.", "content": "A competitive inhibitor of colchicine binding to tubulin has been found in rat brain. Most of the inhibitor is associated with microsomes but some inhibitor, with an apparent molecular weight of approximately 250,000, is found in the cytosol. Both the microsomal and cytosol inhibitors are heat- and trypsin-sensitive, indicating that a protein moiety is required for activity. The microsomes bind tubulin directly; the microsomal and cytosol fractions both inhibit microtubule assembly in vitro. The inhibitor may function in the living cell to bind and sequester non-polymerized tubulin. Regulation of tubulin attachment to microsomes could then control the concentration of cytosolic tubulin available for microtubule assembly.", "contents": "Endogenous inhibitor of colchicine-tubulin binding in rat brain. A competitive inhibitor of colchicine binding to tubulin has been found in rat brain. Most of the inhibitor is associated with microsomes but some inhibitor, with an apparent molecular weight of approximately 250,000, is found in the cytosol. Both the microsomal and cytosol inhibitors are heat- and trypsin-sensitive, indicating that a protein moiety is required for activity. The microsomes bind tubulin directly; the microsomal and cytosol fractions both inhibit microtubule assembly in vitro. The inhibitor may function in the living cell to bind and sequester non-polymerized tubulin. Regulation of tubulin attachment to microsomes could then control the concentration of cytosolic tubulin available for microtubule assembly.", "PMID": 451622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9770", "title": "Reptiles and mammals use similar sensory organizations in the midbrain.", "content": "Striking similarities were observed between the overlapping visual and tactile maps of the mammalian superior colliculus and of its homolog in reptiles, the optic tectum. This topographic pattern probably represents a plan of sensory representation that existed in ancient reptiles and that was retained during the evolution to mammalian forms more than 180 million years ago.", "contents": "Reptiles and mammals use similar sensory organizations in the midbrain. Striking similarities were observed between the overlapping visual and tactile maps of the mammalian superior colliculus and of its homolog in reptiles, the optic tectum. This topographic pattern probably represents a plan of sensory representation that existed in ancient reptiles and that was retained during the evolution to mammalian forms more than 180 million years ago.", "PMID": 451623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9771", "title": "Thyroid hormone influence on the susceptibility of mice to audiogenic seizures.", "content": "Serum thyroxine levels peak earlier and are significantly higher in audiogenic seizure-susceptible DBA/2J mice than in seizure-resistant C57BL/6J mice during early postnatal life. The seizure susceptibility of DBA/2J mice is suppressed by administration of an antithyroid drug or by radiothyroidectomy, while the seizure susceptibility of C57BL/6J mice is enhanced by treatment with excess thyroxine.", "contents": "Thyroid hormone influence on the susceptibility of mice to audiogenic seizures. Serum thyroxine levels peak earlier and are significantly higher in audiogenic seizure-susceptible DBA/2J mice than in seizure-resistant C57BL/6J mice during early postnatal life. The seizure susceptibility of DBA/2J mice is suppressed by administration of an antithyroid drug or by radiothyroidectomy, while the seizure susceptibility of C57BL/6J mice is enhanced by treatment with excess thyroxine.", "PMID": 451624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9772", "title": "Combination tones at frequencies greater than the primary tones.", "content": "The existence of audible combination tones at frequencies greater than the primary tones that generate them has long been problematic. With primary tones at frequencies f1 and f2, combination tones at f1 + f2 - f1, and other frequencies can be demonstrated and measured by using a contralateral probe tone to establish a binaural interaction with a given combination tone. The estimated amplitudes of these higher-frequency combination tones are generally 20 to 40 decibels below the amplitude of the primary tones.", "contents": "Combination tones at frequencies greater than the primary tones. The existence of audible combination tones at frequencies greater than the primary tones that generate them has long been problematic. With primary tones at frequencies f1 and f2, combination tones at f1 + f2 - f1, and other frequencies can be demonstrated and measured by using a contralateral probe tone to establish a binaural interaction with a given combination tone. The estimated amplitudes of these higher-frequency combination tones are generally 20 to 40 decibels below the amplitude of the primary tones.", "PMID": 451625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9773", "title": "Vascular disorders associated with thrombohemorrhagic phenomena.", "content": "This paper has attempted to summarize the more common disease entities which may be accompanied by or may lead to a disorder of hemostasis and/or thrombosis. It is to be emphasized that the vascular component of hemostasis is often overlooked by clinicians caring for individuals with disorders in hemostasis and thrombosis. It is hoped that this brief summary will alert clinicians that the vasculature is equal in importance to the coagulation protein system and to platelets in leading to a hemorrhagic or thrombotic diathesis.", "contents": "Vascular disorders associated with thrombohemorrhagic phenomena. This paper has attempted to summarize the more common disease entities which may be accompanied by or may lead to a disorder of hemostasis and/or thrombosis. It is to be emphasized that the vascular component of hemostasis is often overlooked by clinicians caring for individuals with disorders in hemostasis and thrombosis. It is hoped that this brief summary will alert clinicians that the vasculature is equal in importance to the coagulation protein system and to platelets in leading to a hemorrhagic or thrombotic diathesis.", "PMID": 451626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9774", "title": "Combined surgical and radiation therapy for invasive carcinoma of the cervix.", "content": "Results of combined surgical and radiation therapy for invasive carcinoma in 266 patients treated between 1945 and 1970 are presented. Treatment protocol included radical Wertheim hysterectomy, Taussig node dissection, and deep pelvic irradiation. All cases were staged according to the International Staging System. The five-year survival for patients with disease in stages I, II, and III was 80.5%. All of the 32 patients with cervical stump carcinoma or cervical carcinoma complicated by pregnancy survived. Of the 52 patients with lymph node metastasis, 55.7% survived.", "contents": "Combined surgical and radiation therapy for invasive carcinoma of the cervix. Results of combined surgical and radiation therapy for invasive carcinoma in 266 patients treated between 1945 and 1970 are presented. Treatment protocol included radical Wertheim hysterectomy, Taussig node dissection, and deep pelvic irradiation. All cases were staged according to the International Staging System. The five-year survival for patients with disease in stages I, II, and III was 80.5%. All of the 32 patients with cervical stump carcinoma or cervical carcinoma complicated by pregnancy survived. Of the 52 patients with lymph node metastasis, 55.7% survived.", "PMID": 451644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9775", "title": "Gastric carcinoma in young adults.", "content": "The clinical and pathologic characteristics of gastric carcinoma in patients younger than 30 are compared with those of patients 30 to 39 years of age. Patients in both age groups had similar symptoms, predominantly undifferentiated neoplasms, and poor prognoses. In both groups, there were significant delays in initiation of definitive treatment because of delays in diagnosis. In 80% of the patients, the malignancy extended beyond the stomach wall at diagnosis, adversely affecting their long-term survival. The 20% five year survival in both groups indicates the necessity of early diagnosis and aggressive treatment.", "contents": "Gastric carcinoma in young adults. The clinical and pathologic characteristics of gastric carcinoma in patients younger than 30 are compared with those of patients 30 to 39 years of age. Patients in both age groups had similar symptoms, predominantly undifferentiated neoplasms, and poor prognoses. In both groups, there were significant delays in initiation of definitive treatment because of delays in diagnosis. In 80% of the patients, the malignancy extended beyond the stomach wall at diagnosis, adversely affecting their long-term survival. The 20% five year survival in both groups indicates the necessity of early diagnosis and aggressive treatment.", "PMID": 451645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9776", "title": "Filtration characteristics of the polyester fiber micropore blood transfusion filter.", "content": "The filtration characteristics of a new polyester fiber (Fenwal II) micropore blood transfusion filter were investigated. Filtration of stored human whole blood and packed cells resulted in return of screen filtration pressure (SFP) of the blood to normal. Increased filter weights verified removal of large amounts of debris and microaggregates from the blood. Filtration of large quantities of blood accomplished at very high flow rates did not adversely affect the composition of the filtered blood. We conclude that the polyester fiber (Fenwal II) micropore blood transfusion filter is effective in removing microaggregates from stored whole blood and packed cells. It has a high volume capacity, allows rapid flow, and is reliable during pressure transfusion.", "contents": "Filtration characteristics of the polyester fiber micropore blood transfusion filter. The filtration characteristics of a new polyester fiber (Fenwal II) micropore blood transfusion filter were investigated. Filtration of stored human whole blood and packed cells resulted in return of screen filtration pressure (SFP) of the blood to normal. Increased filter weights verified removal of large amounts of debris and microaggregates from the blood. Filtration of large quantities of blood accomplished at very high flow rates did not adversely affect the composition of the filtered blood. We conclude that the polyester fiber (Fenwal II) micropore blood transfusion filter is effective in removing microaggregates from stored whole blood and packed cells. It has a high volume capacity, allows rapid flow, and is reliable during pressure transfusion.", "PMID": 451646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9777", "title": "Double contrast examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract.", "content": "The principles and technic of the double contrast examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum are outlined. Use of the hypotonic agent glucagon improves evaluation of the stomach, but optimal visualization of the duodenum may require reexamination after its effect has worn off. The technic is able to show gastric erosions and linear ulcers, both of which are rarely recognizable with conventional examination. The characteristics of malignant gastric ulcers and the presence of fundal lesions are also better demonstrated on double contrast evaluation. Small esophageal carcinomas may be recognized on a double contrast barium swallow. Examples of each of these lesions are illustrated. Many ulcerating lesions are seen \"en face\" on double contrast, and not in profile, which may require relearning the interpretation of their appearances. For greatest accuracy the double contrast technic should be combined with the conventional examination. As this therefore becomes a more time-consuming examination, we advocate its use only in selected clinical situations rather than on a routine basis.", "contents": "Double contrast examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The principles and technic of the double contrast examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum are outlined. Use of the hypotonic agent glucagon improves evaluation of the stomach, but optimal visualization of the duodenum may require reexamination after its effect has worn off. The technic is able to show gastric erosions and linear ulcers, both of which are rarely recognizable with conventional examination. The characteristics of malignant gastric ulcers and the presence of fundal lesions are also better demonstrated on double contrast evaluation. Small esophageal carcinomas may be recognized on a double contrast barium swallow. Examples of each of these lesions are illustrated. Many ulcerating lesions are seen \"en face\" on double contrast, and not in profile, which may require relearning the interpretation of their appearances. For greatest accuracy the double contrast technic should be combined with the conventional examination. As this therefore becomes a more time-consuming examination, we advocate its use only in selected clinical situations rather than on a routine basis.", "PMID": 451647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9778", "title": "Cystic lymphangioma of the spleen.", "content": "Splenic cysts are uncommon, with fewer than 600 cases reported in the world literature. This report concerns a case of cystic lymphangioma of the spleen, consisting of a large splenic cyst with associated multiple, small, subcapsular cysts and lymphangiectasia. The cysts are lined by endothelium, and they conform to the characteristics of dilated lymphatic channels. Lymphangioma of the spleen is thought to arise from congenital obstruction of lymphatic flow, with subsequent dilatation of lymphatic channels. The diagnosis and treatment of splenic cysts are discussed and a new classification of splenic cysts is proposed.", "contents": "Cystic lymphangioma of the spleen. Splenic cysts are uncommon, with fewer than 600 cases reported in the world literature. This report concerns a case of cystic lymphangioma of the spleen, consisting of a large splenic cyst with associated multiple, small, subcapsular cysts and lymphangiectasia. The cysts are lined by endothelium, and they conform to the characteristics of dilated lymphatic channels. Lymphangioma of the spleen is thought to arise from congenital obstruction of lymphatic flow, with subsequent dilatation of lymphatic channels. The diagnosis and treatment of splenic cysts are discussed and a new classification of splenic cysts is proposed.", "PMID": 451648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9779", "title": "Allergic reactivity of the Pikes Peak region.", "content": "Despite the introduction of many new species from other areas, a skin test survey of patients visiting our allergy office shows that the plants causing hay fever in this area continue to be the same as in years past. Each physician should evaluate potential allergens in his own area, as our survey reveals the inadequacy of commercially available regional allergy diagnostic and treatment sets.", "contents": "Allergic reactivity of the Pikes Peak region. Despite the introduction of many new species from other areas, a skin test survey of patients visiting our allergy office shows that the plants causing hay fever in this area continue to be the same as in years past. Each physician should evaluate potential allergens in his own area, as our survey reveals the inadequacy of commercially available regional allergy diagnostic and treatment sets.", "PMID": 451649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9780", "title": "Unicompartmental replacement for medial compartment gonarthrosis: preliminary report.", "content": "Unicompartmental replacement using the Marmor prosthesis was done in 40 knees (37 patients) with medial compartment gonarthrosis. Of the 27 available for follow-up, results were considered excellent in 18 cases and good in seven, while two cases were considered failures. Meticulous removal of osteophytes by intercondylar burring and accurate alignment of the femoral component of the tibial medial compartment with the axis of the normal medial femoral condyle are essential to success. Preservation of a good articular surface and early mobilization with excellent report indicate that unicompartmental replacement may be useful in the treatment of medial gonarthrosis.", "contents": "Unicompartmental replacement for medial compartment gonarthrosis: preliminary report. Unicompartmental replacement using the Marmor prosthesis was done in 40 knees (37 patients) with medial compartment gonarthrosis. Of the 27 available for follow-up, results were considered excellent in 18 cases and good in seven, while two cases were considered failures. Meticulous removal of osteophytes by intercondylar burring and accurate alignment of the femoral component of the tibial medial compartment with the axis of the normal medial femoral condyle are essential to success. Preservation of a good articular surface and early mobilization with excellent report indicate that unicompartmental replacement may be useful in the treatment of medial gonarthrosis.", "PMID": 451650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9781", "title": "Transient erythrocytosis during the neonatal period: possible neurologic compications.", "content": "Transient erythrocytosis during the neonatal period may result in serious complications. Among the well recognized problems are respiratory distress, acute heart failure, and death. Little attention has been ascribed to the neurologic complications of a high hematocrit level in the neonatal period. This report describes four pediatric patients with neurologic deficits presumably due to transiently high hematocrit levels during the neonatal period. The neurologic findings in these patients were consistent with the general diagnosis of cerebral palsy. We hypothesize that they may be representative of a group of patients with seizures, structural central nervous system defects, and/or mental retardation secondary to transient erythrocytosis. Moreover, prompt recognition and treatment of this hematologic finding may prevent the immediate or late appearance of such neurologic findings.", "contents": "Transient erythrocytosis during the neonatal period: possible neurologic compications. Transient erythrocytosis during the neonatal period may result in serious complications. Among the well recognized problems are respiratory distress, acute heart failure, and death. Little attention has been ascribed to the neurologic complications of a high hematocrit level in the neonatal period. This report describes four pediatric patients with neurologic deficits presumably due to transiently high hematocrit levels during the neonatal period. The neurologic findings in these patients were consistent with the general diagnosis of cerebral palsy. We hypothesize that they may be representative of a group of patients with seizures, structural central nervous system defects, and/or mental retardation secondary to transient erythrocytosis. Moreover, prompt recognition and treatment of this hematologic finding may prevent the immediate or late appearance of such neurologic findings.", "PMID": 451651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9782", "title": "Critical care and anesthetic management of Reye's syndrome.", "content": "The encephalopathy of Reye's syndrome is frequently complicated by increased intracranial pressure (ICP) which may lead to death or severe neurologic sequelae. An understanding of the pathophysiology of increased ICP is necessary to prevent further increases in pressure and to reduce pressure while maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion. Four of seven children with Reye's syndrome and increased ICP survived after reduction of increased ICP by controlled hyperventilation and osmotherapy while being monitored with the Richmond intracranial bolt. Careful anesthetic and critical-care management, appropriate, reliable monitoring, and pentobarbital therapy may constitute the most successful therapy to date for patients with Reye's syndrome and increased ICP.", "contents": "Critical care and anesthetic management of Reye's syndrome. The encephalopathy of Reye's syndrome is frequently complicated by increased intracranial pressure (ICP) which may lead to death or severe neurologic sequelae. An understanding of the pathophysiology of increased ICP is necessary to prevent further increases in pressure and to reduce pressure while maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion. Four of seven children with Reye's syndrome and increased ICP survived after reduction of increased ICP by controlled hyperventilation and osmotherapy while being monitored with the Richmond intracranial bolt. Careful anesthetic and critical-care management, appropriate, reliable monitoring, and pentobarbital therapy may constitute the most successful therapy to date for patients with Reye's syndrome and increased ICP.", "PMID": 451652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9783", "title": "Lethal toothache: parapharyngeal cellulitis complicating dental infection.", "content": "Three patients with parapharyngeal cellulitis arising from dental infection were seen by the Medical Service over a period of ten months. Respiratory distress and/or pharyngeal discomfort prompted all patients to seek medical aid. The extent of infection within the parapharyngeal space, the potential for life-threatening complications, and the significance of the dental lesions were not appreciated initially in all cases. Despite early antibiotic therapy, one patient died and one incurred severe neurologic sequelae. Early recognition, use of antibiotics effective against anaerobic bacteria, and prompt surgical drainage are mandatory to prevent considerable morbidity and mortality. Control of the airway is the most important therapeutic maneuver leading to a favorable outcome.", "contents": "Lethal toothache: parapharyngeal cellulitis complicating dental infection. Three patients with parapharyngeal cellulitis arising from dental infection were seen by the Medical Service over a period of ten months. Respiratory distress and/or pharyngeal discomfort prompted all patients to seek medical aid. The extent of infection within the parapharyngeal space, the potential for life-threatening complications, and the significance of the dental lesions were not appreciated initially in all cases. Despite early antibiotic therapy, one patient died and one incurred severe neurologic sequelae. Early recognition, use of antibiotics effective against anaerobic bacteria, and prompt surgical drainage are mandatory to prevent considerable morbidity and mortality. Control of the airway is the most important therapeutic maneuver leading to a favorable outcome.", "PMID": 451653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9784", "title": "Evaluation and prognosis in nonorganic failure to thrive.", "content": "The 70 children with failure to thrive (FTT) admitted to our hospital over the last five years were reviewed. After extensive evaluations, only 16% received a diagnosis of an organic disorder. In the nonorganic group, 45% of FTT was secondary to improper feeding and 52% was secondary to environmental deprivation. Thirty percent of the children were discharged without a diagnosis. Although there were some important differences between the groups, extensive laboratory data were of little value. Follow-up information revealed that while the children with FTT secondary to poor feeding technics uniformly did well, the outlook for the environmentally deprived group and unknown cause group was frequently poor.", "contents": "Evaluation and prognosis in nonorganic failure to thrive. The 70 children with failure to thrive (FTT) admitted to our hospital over the last five years were reviewed. After extensive evaluations, only 16% received a diagnosis of an organic disorder. In the nonorganic group, 45% of FTT was secondary to improper feeding and 52% was secondary to environmental deprivation. Thirty percent of the children were discharged without a diagnosis. Although there were some important differences between the groups, extensive laboratory data were of little value. Follow-up information revealed that while the children with FTT secondary to poor feeding technics uniformly did well, the outlook for the environmentally deprived group and unknown cause group was frequently poor.", "PMID": 451654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9785", "title": "Congenital lobar emphysema.", "content": "Congenital lobar emphysema is a rare disorder thay may present outside the newborn period. It is generally best treated surgically by excision of the affected lobe. We describe a 6 1/2-week-old infant in whom the initial auscultatory and roentgenographic findings were confusing and of no help in making the diagnosis. The etiology of congenital lobar emphysema remains unclear.", "contents": "Congenital lobar emphysema. Congenital lobar emphysema is a rare disorder thay may present outside the newborn period. It is generally best treated surgically by excision of the affected lobe. We describe a 6 1/2-week-old infant in whom the initial auscultatory and roentgenographic findings were confusing and of no help in making the diagnosis. The etiology of congenital lobar emphysema remains unclear.", "PMID": 451655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9786", "title": "Gunshot wounds to the spinal cord.", "content": "A series of 59 patients with gunshot wounds to the spinal cord is presented. Seventeen injuries were cervical, 30 were thoracic, 11 were lumbar, and one was sacral. Twenty-nine patients had immediate complete sensorimotor loss of function, 18 had sensory or motor sparing below the cord lesions, and 12 had injury of the cauda equina. Thirty-nine patients were treated with decompressive laminectomy, four with local wound debridement only, three with cervical traction and subsequent anterior cervical fusion; 13 had only conservative therapy. Eleven patients had return to normal function and 20 patients had some degree of improvement. There was no significant difference in the outcome between patients operated on and those treated conservatively.", "contents": "Gunshot wounds to the spinal cord. A series of 59 patients with gunshot wounds to the spinal cord is presented. Seventeen injuries were cervical, 30 were thoracic, 11 were lumbar, and one was sacral. Twenty-nine patients had immediate complete sensorimotor loss of function, 18 had sensory or motor sparing below the cord lesions, and 12 had injury of the cauda equina. Thirty-nine patients were treated with decompressive laminectomy, four with local wound debridement only, three with cervical traction and subsequent anterior cervical fusion; 13 had only conservative therapy. Eleven patients had return to normal function and 20 patients had some degree of improvement. There was no significant difference in the outcome between patients operated on and those treated conservatively.", "PMID": 451656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9787", "title": "Coombs'-positive hemolytic anemia and ibuprofen.", "content": "A patient who developed an autoimmune hemolytic anemia during treatment with ibuprofen (Motrin) is described. Positive indirect Coombs' reaction was demonstrated with the patient's red blood cell eluate in the presence of the drug, supporting a drug-related immune hemolysis. The positive direct Coombs' reaction to anti-C3 antiserum strongly suggested that the immune hemolysis in this patient is probably mediated through complement alone; however, the presence of a small amount of IgG antibodies on the surface of the red blood cells which cannot be detected under conventional screening procedures cannot be completely excluded. Further studies, both clinical and laboratory, disclosed that the responsible ingredient in this particular instance appeared to be the orange dye coating of the Motrin-400 tablet rather than the ibuprofen itself.", "contents": "Coombs'-positive hemolytic anemia and ibuprofen. A patient who developed an autoimmune hemolytic anemia during treatment with ibuprofen (Motrin) is described. Positive indirect Coombs' reaction was demonstrated with the patient's red blood cell eluate in the presence of the drug, supporting a drug-related immune hemolysis. The positive direct Coombs' reaction to anti-C3 antiserum strongly suggested that the immune hemolysis in this patient is probably mediated through complement alone; however, the presence of a small amount of IgG antibodies on the surface of the red blood cells which cannot be detected under conventional screening procedures cannot be completely excluded. Further studies, both clinical and laboratory, disclosed that the responsible ingredient in this particular instance appeared to be the orange dye coating of the Motrin-400 tablet rather than the ibuprofen itself.", "PMID": 451658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9788", "title": "Serum levels of estrone and estradiol after implantation of estradiol pellets.", "content": "Serum estrone, estradiol, progesterone, FSH, and LH levels were studied after the implantation of estradiol pellets in female volunteers in the reproductive age group. The estradiol pellets were implanted at six-month intervals. The first implant consisted of four pellets (25 mg each). Subsequent implants consisted of a reduction by one pellet as compared to the previous implant. The mean serum estradiol levels during the six-month period of implantation or at the end of six-month intervals were in the premenopausal range and did not differ significantly during the study. The serum estrone levels showed a tendency to increase with time even though the number of pellets implanted was decreasing, apparently a result of incomplete absorption of the implanted estradiol during the six-month period. The results of serum progesterone determinations and basal body temperature records indicate that the suppression of ovulation takes place most consistently during the second and subsequent months after estradiol pellet implantation.", "contents": "Serum levels of estrone and estradiol after implantation of estradiol pellets. Serum estrone, estradiol, progesterone, FSH, and LH levels were studied after the implantation of estradiol pellets in female volunteers in the reproductive age group. The estradiol pellets were implanted at six-month intervals. The first implant consisted of four pellets (25 mg each). Subsequent implants consisted of a reduction by one pellet as compared to the previous implant. The mean serum estradiol levels during the six-month period of implantation or at the end of six-month intervals were in the premenopausal range and did not differ significantly during the study. The serum estrone levels showed a tendency to increase with time even though the number of pellets implanted was decreasing, apparently a result of incomplete absorption of the implanted estradiol during the six-month period. The results of serum progesterone determinations and basal body temperature records indicate that the suppression of ovulation takes place most consistently during the second and subsequent months after estradiol pellet implantation.", "PMID": 451659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9789", "title": "Evaluation of extramural programs.", "content": "Extramural programs may be evaluated in terms of effectiveness in achieving their particular goals. The components of structure, process, and outcome are examined as related sets of program elements. Goals influence appropriate structure in organization, facilities, and manpower. Structure in turn influences process or activities which result in outcome. Outcome is considered in terms of goals. Each set of elements is examined by institutional faculty and administration, extramural faculty, and students. Where all agree that desired outcome variables are relevant to the goal(s) and are achieved, the program is \"effective.\" Where outcome and goal are not compatible, process and then structure must be examined for appropriateness of each. When there is disagreement between groups about any element, a problem area in the program is specifically identified. The procedure for cyclic assessment may be used by a school or program for self-study or for periodic internal monitoring of problem areas. Use of this method has shown some characteristics common to different types of extramural programs.", "contents": "Evaluation of extramural programs. Extramural programs may be evaluated in terms of effectiveness in achieving their particular goals. The components of structure, process, and outcome are examined as related sets of program elements. Goals influence appropriate structure in organization, facilities, and manpower. Structure in turn influences process or activities which result in outcome. Outcome is considered in terms of goals. Each set of elements is examined by institutional faculty and administration, extramural faculty, and students. Where all agree that desired outcome variables are relevant to the goal(s) and are achieved, the program is \"effective.\" Where outcome and goal are not compatible, process and then structure must be examined for appropriateness of each. When there is disagreement between groups about any element, a problem area in the program is specifically identified. The procedure for cyclic assessment may be used by a school or program for self-study or for periodic internal monitoring of problem areas. Use of this method has shown some characteristics common to different types of extramural programs.", "PMID": 451660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9790", "title": "Gallstone ileus masquerading as a gastric outlet obstruction.", "content": "We have described a patient with gallstone ileus who was initially believed to have a gastric outlet obstruction. Roentgenogram of the abdomen revealed a markedly distended stomach. None of the classic roentgenographic signs of gallstone ileus were present. Old age and diabetes mellitus probably contributed to her severe gastric retention.", "contents": "Gallstone ileus masquerading as a gastric outlet obstruction. We have described a patient with gallstone ileus who was initially believed to have a gastric outlet obstruction. Roentgenogram of the abdomen revealed a markedly distended stomach. None of the classic roentgenographic signs of gallstone ileus were present. Old age and diabetes mellitus probably contributed to her severe gastric retention.", "PMID": 451663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9791", "title": "Hemobilia complicating warfarin therapy.", "content": "This patient is the first case of endoscopically documented massive hemobilia exacerbated by inadvertent warfarin overdose. The true frequency of this disorder should become evident with the widespread use of endoscopy and a high index of suspicion.", "contents": "Hemobilia complicating warfarin therapy. This patient is the first case of endoscopically documented massive hemobilia exacerbated by inadvertent warfarin overdose. The true frequency of this disorder should become evident with the widespread use of endoscopy and a high index of suspicion.", "PMID": 451664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9792", "title": "A case of leprosy at Charity Hospital, New Orleans.", "content": "A 63-year-old black woman, admitted to Charity Hospital, New Orleans, for treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure, was found clinically and histopathologically to have Hansen's disease. She had lived most of her life in Orleans Parish and had no known contact as a source of her infection.", "contents": "A case of leprosy at Charity Hospital, New Orleans. A 63-year-old black woman, admitted to Charity Hospital, New Orleans, for treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure, was found clinically and histopathologically to have Hansen's disease. She had lived most of her life in Orleans Parish and had no known contact as a source of her infection.", "PMID": 451668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9793", "title": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation after surgical excision of cavernous hemangioma.", "content": "This report describes the clinical course of a child who had excision of several symptomatic cavernous hemangiomas. Disseminated intravascular coagulation resulted in severe postoperative bleeding. DIC was treated successfully with heparin.", "contents": "Disseminated intravascular coagulation after surgical excision of cavernous hemangioma. This report describes the clinical course of a child who had excision of several symptomatic cavernous hemangiomas. Disseminated intravascular coagulation resulted in severe postoperative bleeding. DIC was treated successfully with heparin.", "PMID": 451669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9794", "title": "Intestinal atony in progressive systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma).", "content": "A 27-year-old woman with a long history of scleroderma developed megacolon and severe fecal vomiting as a result of intestinal atony. Evacuation of fecal impaction with water-soluble contrast enema resulted in prompt relief of fecal vomiting and gradual return of bowel function.", "contents": "Intestinal atony in progressive systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma). A 27-year-old woman with a long history of scleroderma developed megacolon and severe fecal vomiting as a result of intestinal atony. Evacuation of fecal impaction with water-soluble contrast enema resulted in prompt relief of fecal vomiting and gradual return of bowel function.", "PMID": 451671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9795", "title": "Postspinal headache: use of epidural blood patch.", "content": "Epidural blood patch should be considered the treatment of choice for postoperative headache if oral fluids and bed rest provide no relief. There should be no hesitation in performing this procedure, provided there are no contraindications. The two important contraindications are (1) evidence of inflammation or infection on the back when the puncture is to be made and (2) septicemia. A representative case is presented.", "contents": "Postspinal headache: use of epidural blood patch. Epidural blood patch should be considered the treatment of choice for postoperative headache if oral fluids and bed rest provide no relief. There should be no hesitation in performing this procedure, provided there are no contraindications. The two important contraindications are (1) evidence of inflammation or infection on the back when the puncture is to be made and (2) septicemia. A representative case is presented.", "PMID": 451672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9796", "title": "Duration of intubation and ICU stay after open heart surgery.", "content": "One hundred four consecutive patients undergoing open heart surgery were studied to determine the duration of intubation and ICU stay associated with an anesthetic management protocol designed to avoid prolonged postoperative respiratory depression. The results document the feasibility and safety of early extubation and shortened ICU stay in patients having operations for ischemic and acquired valvular heart disease. Patients with complex congenital heart defects require significantly longer periods of respiratory support and intensive care.", "contents": "Duration of intubation and ICU stay after open heart surgery. One hundred four consecutive patients undergoing open heart surgery were studied to determine the duration of intubation and ICU stay associated with an anesthetic management protocol designed to avoid prolonged postoperative respiratory depression. The results document the feasibility and safety of early extubation and shortened ICU stay in patients having operations for ischemic and acquired valvular heart disease. Patients with complex congenital heart defects require significantly longer periods of respiratory support and intensive care.", "PMID": 451679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9797", "title": "Variant angina in the setting of hypothyroidism and beta blockade: a proposed mechanism.", "content": "Coronary artery spasm can occur in the presence of excessive alpha-adrenergic tone. A decrease in protective coronary vasodilator substance and enhanced alpha-adrenergic responsiveness, which occurs in the setting of hypothroidism and beta blockade, predisposes to coronary artery spasm. The case presented supports these concepts.", "contents": "Variant angina in the setting of hypothyroidism and beta blockade: a proposed mechanism. Coronary artery spasm can occur in the presence of excessive alpha-adrenergic tone. A decrease in protective coronary vasodilator substance and enhanced alpha-adrenergic responsiveness, which occurs in the setting of hypothroidism and beta blockade, predisposes to coronary artery spasm. The case presented supports these concepts.", "PMID": 451680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9798", "title": "Analysis of factors influencing the renin-aldosterone system in a patient with Bartter's syndrome.", "content": "The response to indomethacin of a patient with Bartter's syndrome and proximal tubular sodium wasting is described. The patient had evidence of excessive prostaglandin activity (elevated urinary prostaglandin E metabolite [PGE-M] excretion) which returned to normal with indomethacin therapy. Indomethacin administration corrected the defect in proximal tubular sodium resorption, but suppressed plasma renin activity and urinary aldosterone excretion only when sufficient dietary sodium was available to allow for extracellular fluid volume (ECFV) expansion. We conclude that the proximal tubular defect in sodium resorption may have been caused by excessive prostaglandin activity and that the sustained hyperactivity of the renin-aldosterone system was mediated by ECFV depletion.", "contents": "Analysis of factors influencing the renin-aldosterone system in a patient with Bartter's syndrome. The response to indomethacin of a patient with Bartter's syndrome and proximal tubular sodium wasting is described. The patient had evidence of excessive prostaglandin activity (elevated urinary prostaglandin E metabolite [PGE-M] excretion) which returned to normal with indomethacin therapy. Indomethacin administration corrected the defect in proximal tubular sodium resorption, but suppressed plasma renin activity and urinary aldosterone excretion only when sufficient dietary sodium was available to allow for extracellular fluid volume (ECFV) expansion. We conclude that the proximal tubular defect in sodium resorption may have been caused by excessive prostaglandin activity and that the sustained hyperactivity of the renin-aldosterone system was mediated by ECFV depletion.", "PMID": 451681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9799", "title": "Air embolism from mechanical ventilation in respiratory distress syndrome.", "content": "Three cases of air embolism secondary to mechanical ventilation in premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome are presented, and its mechanism is discussed. A plausible mechanism for air in the hepatic veins occurring in most of these cases is also discussed. Many sudden unexplained deaths in premature infants on mechanical ventilation may be due to air embolism, which should be recognized as a component of neonatal \"air-block syndrome.\"", "contents": "Air embolism from mechanical ventilation in respiratory distress syndrome. Three cases of air embolism secondary to mechanical ventilation in premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome are presented, and its mechanism is discussed. A plausible mechanism for air in the hepatic veins occurring in most of these cases is also discussed. Many sudden unexplained deaths in premature infants on mechanical ventilation may be due to air embolism, which should be recognized as a component of neonatal \"air-block syndrome.\"", "PMID": 451682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9800", "title": "Pathologic fractures of long bones.", "content": "Sixty-two cases of pathologic fractures occurring in 53 patients treated at Scott and White Memorial Hospital from 1966 to 1976 are reviewed and analyzed with regard to type of neoplastic lesion, location, mode of therapy initiated, functional stability of therapy selected, and average length of survival after orthopedic procedure. Pertinent literature is reviewed, and our results are compared with those of other series.", "contents": "Pathologic fractures of long bones. Sixty-two cases of pathologic fractures occurring in 53 patients treated at Scott and White Memorial Hospital from 1966 to 1976 are reviewed and analyzed with regard to type of neoplastic lesion, location, mode of therapy initiated, functional stability of therapy selected, and average length of survival after orthopedic procedure. Pertinent literature is reviewed, and our results are compared with those of other series.", "PMID": 451683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9801", "title": "Follow-up study on hemiarthroplasty of the hip.", "content": "This follow-up study on hemiarthroplasty of the hip evaluates the effectiveness of the treatment in various hip conditions. A total of 169 hemiarthroplasties of the hip were performed at the Medical College of Georgia from 1966 to 1972. Fifty-two patients were available for follow-up study in 1975. Hips were evaluated by Harris' hip evaluation method. The patients were divided into various diagnostic groups. The hips with idiopathic avascular necrosis followed by the hips with fresh fractures showed the best overall results. The results were not as good when the acetabulum was damaged, but acetabuloplasty was beneficial in these patients. In view of the complications of the total hip reconstruction and greater functional demand, a more conservative approach in younger patients is discussed. The hips with rheumatoid and degenerative joint disease did poorly with hemiarthroplasty.", "contents": "Follow-up study on hemiarthroplasty of the hip. This follow-up study on hemiarthroplasty of the hip evaluates the effectiveness of the treatment in various hip conditions. A total of 169 hemiarthroplasties of the hip were performed at the Medical College of Georgia from 1966 to 1972. Fifty-two patients were available for follow-up study in 1975. Hips were evaluated by Harris' hip evaluation method. The patients were divided into various diagnostic groups. The hips with idiopathic avascular necrosis followed by the hips with fresh fractures showed the best overall results. The results were not as good when the acetabulum was damaged, but acetabuloplasty was beneficial in these patients. In view of the complications of the total hip reconstruction and greater functional demand, a more conservative approach in younger patients is discussed. The hips with rheumatoid and degenerative joint disease did poorly with hemiarthroplasty.", "PMID": 451684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9802", "title": "Vascular access for cancer chemotherapy.", "content": "A persistent problem in caring for patients receiving long-term intravenous chemotherapy for cancer is the maintenance of access to the vascular system. At Emory University Hospital between January 1975 and December 1977, 48 cancer chemotherapy patients had upper-arm bovine arteriovenous fistulas created for vascular access. The heterografts were inserted from the distal brachial artery to the proximal brachial vein under local, regional block, or general anesthesia. Grafts were functioning satisfactorily in 81% of the subjects at the time of death or at termination of treatment. The mean duration of useful graft patency for the entire group was 4.6 months, with a range of 0 to 27 months. Thrombosis of the graft was the most frequently encountered complication; infection and bleeding occurred infrequently. Reoperation was required in 35% of grafts, of which one half were salvaged. No mortality was attributable to the operative procedures or to the presence of a chronic arteriovenous fistula.", "contents": "Vascular access for cancer chemotherapy. A persistent problem in caring for patients receiving long-term intravenous chemotherapy for cancer is the maintenance of access to the vascular system. At Emory University Hospital between January 1975 and December 1977, 48 cancer chemotherapy patients had upper-arm bovine arteriovenous fistulas created for vascular access. The heterografts were inserted from the distal brachial artery to the proximal brachial vein under local, regional block, or general anesthesia. Grafts were functioning satisfactorily in 81% of the subjects at the time of death or at termination of treatment. The mean duration of useful graft patency for the entire group was 4.6 months, with a range of 0 to 27 months. Thrombosis of the graft was the most frequently encountered complication; infection and bleeding occurred infrequently. Reoperation was required in 35% of grafts, of which one half were salvaged. No mortality was attributable to the operative procedures or to the presence of a chronic arteriovenous fistula.", "PMID": 451685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9803", "title": "Secondary renal neoplasms: an autopsy study.", "content": "The records of 11,328 autopsies performed on patients who died of malignant disease between March 1944 and August 1974 were reviewed, and 816 cases (7.2%) demonstrated renal metastases. The most common primary tumors in decreasing order of frequency were lung, breast, skin (melanoma), and tumors of the genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and gynecologic tracts, respectively. Generally metastases were hematogenous, multiple, bilateral, less than 3 cm in diameter, and located throughout the renal parenchyma. Associated metastases were usually present in many other organs. Because methods to detect renal lesions depend upon their size, clinical recognition of renal metastases will be largely limited to that 10% which are greater than 3 cm in diameter.", "contents": "Secondary renal neoplasms: an autopsy study. The records of 11,328 autopsies performed on patients who died of malignant disease between March 1944 and August 1974 were reviewed, and 816 cases (7.2%) demonstrated renal metastases. The most common primary tumors in decreasing order of frequency were lung, breast, skin (melanoma), and tumors of the genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and gynecologic tracts, respectively. Generally metastases were hematogenous, multiple, bilateral, less than 3 cm in diameter, and located throughout the renal parenchyma. Associated metastases were usually present in many other organs. Because methods to detect renal lesions depend upon their size, clinical recognition of renal metastases will be largely limited to that 10% which are greater than 3 cm in diameter.", "PMID": 451686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9804", "title": "Factors influencing the occurrence of advanced cervical carcinoma.", "content": "The continued occurrence of advanced cervical carcinoma (stage II, III, IV) was studied. Patients were evaluated with regard to age, racial origin, socioeconomic status, geographic distribution, and presenting symptoms. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of screening in disease detection. The disturbing finding was that of the 170 patients reviewed, disease was diagnosed by screening examination in only 20 patients. Furthermore, 62 patients were not diagnosed even though they were exposed to the health care system. Factors which influence obtaining Pap smears are discussed, with suggestions as to how to enhance use of the Pap smear.", "contents": "Factors influencing the occurrence of advanced cervical carcinoma. The continued occurrence of advanced cervical carcinoma (stage II, III, IV) was studied. Patients were evaluated with regard to age, racial origin, socioeconomic status, geographic distribution, and presenting symptoms. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of screening in disease detection. The disturbing finding was that of the 170 patients reviewed, disease was diagnosed by screening examination in only 20 patients. Furthermore, 62 patients were not diagnosed even though they were exposed to the health care system. Factors which influence obtaining Pap smears are discussed, with suggestions as to how to enhance use of the Pap smear.", "PMID": 451687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9805", "title": "Colposcopy in gynecologic practice.", "content": "We review the role of colposcopy in the setting of a private gynecologic practice and present the data regarding 418 patients. The practicality and propriety of using colposcopy to evaluate patients with abnormal results of cytology, gross cervical lesions with or without postcoital bleeding, or a history of intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol are discussed. The follow-up of small groups of patients treated with cryosurgery for intraepithelial neoplasms is presented.", "contents": "Colposcopy in gynecologic practice. We review the role of colposcopy in the setting of a private gynecologic practice and present the data regarding 418 patients. The practicality and propriety of using colposcopy to evaluate patients with abnormal results of cytology, gross cervical lesions with or without postcoital bleeding, or a history of intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol are discussed. The follow-up of small groups of patients treated with cryosurgery for intraepithelial neoplasms is presented.", "PMID": 451688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9806", "title": "Group III atypical mycobacterial infections.", "content": "We retrospectively and prospectively examined the clinical presentation, course of disease, and response to therapy in 63 patients whose mycobacterial isolates were identified as Runyon group III atypical mycobacteria. All of the patients except four had pulmonary disease similar to typical pulmonary tuberculosis. The others had scrofula or abxcess. There was a male predominance and whites were slightly more frequently infected in our series. Forty-six percent of the patients were from rural Oklahoma. Skin testing and chest roentgenography were important, but culture of the organism appeared to be the only productive method of distinguishing the atypical disease from typical tuberculosis. Eighty-one percent had an associated disease. The isolates showed a very high rate of primary drug resistance, and this was reflected in the difficulty in controlling the infection.", "contents": "Group III atypical mycobacterial infections. We retrospectively and prospectively examined the clinical presentation, course of disease, and response to therapy in 63 patients whose mycobacterial isolates were identified as Runyon group III atypical mycobacteria. All of the patients except four had pulmonary disease similar to typical pulmonary tuberculosis. The others had scrofula or abxcess. There was a male predominance and whites were slightly more frequently infected in our series. Forty-six percent of the patients were from rural Oklahoma. Skin testing and chest roentgenography were important, but culture of the organism appeared to be the only productive method of distinguishing the atypical disease from typical tuberculosis. Eighty-one percent had an associated disease. The isolates showed a very high rate of primary drug resistance, and this was reflected in the difficulty in controlling the infection.", "PMID": 451689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9807", "title": "Classic migraine with cerebral cortical infarction causing permanent hemianopia.", "content": "A patient with typical classic migraine, including clear-cut visual auras, who had been followed up clinically for more than 15 years developed permanent right homonymous hemianopia. The underlying cause of this clinical syndrome was established by computerized axial tomography as vascular infarction or ischemia, involving the contralateral visual cortex.", "contents": "Classic migraine with cerebral cortical infarction causing permanent hemianopia. A patient with typical classic migraine, including clear-cut visual auras, who had been followed up clinically for more than 15 years developed permanent right homonymous hemianopia. The underlying cause of this clinical syndrome was established by computerized axial tomography as vascular infarction or ischemia, involving the contralateral visual cortex.", "PMID": 451690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9808", "title": "Postoperative beta irradiation in the treatment of pterygium.", "content": "High recurrence rates are reported after surgical treatment of pterygia. With the use of beta irradiation, the recurrence rate drops dramatically. This paper describes technic and dosage used in a group of patients receiving postoperative beta irradiation. Two thirds of these patients, however, had at least two surgical procedures. A recurrence rate of 3.5% was observed, with no apparent morbidity.", "contents": "Postoperative beta irradiation in the treatment of pterygium. High recurrence rates are reported after surgical treatment of pterygia. With the use of beta irradiation, the recurrence rate drops dramatically. This paper describes technic and dosage used in a group of patients receiving postoperative beta irradiation. Two thirds of these patients, however, had at least two surgical procedures. A recurrence rate of 3.5% was observed, with no apparent morbidity.", "PMID": 451691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9809", "title": "Tendon rupture after local steroid injection.", "content": "Thirteen patients who developed 15 ruptured tendons subsequent to injection of a depository steroid in or about the tendons are described. Eight were treated surgically. Ruptures were encountered in three Achilles tendons, two supraspinati, one lateral epicondylar attachment at the elbow, eight tendons of the long head of the biceps at the shoulder, and one anterior tibial tendon. Measures designed to lessen this complication are described. In most cases triamcinolone hexacetonide was used as the depository steroid, mixed with procaine or lidocaine. Patients with this complication who were not treated surgically were the older patients who had ruptures of the tendon of the long head of the biceps.", "contents": "Tendon rupture after local steroid injection. Thirteen patients who developed 15 ruptured tendons subsequent to injection of a depository steroid in or about the tendons are described. Eight were treated surgically. Ruptures were encountered in three Achilles tendons, two supraspinati, one lateral epicondylar attachment at the elbow, eight tendons of the long head of the biceps at the shoulder, and one anterior tibial tendon. Measures designed to lessen this complication are described. In most cases triamcinolone hexacetonide was used as the depository steroid, mixed with procaine or lidocaine. Patients with this complication who were not treated surgically were the older patients who had ruptures of the tendon of the long head of the biceps.", "PMID": 451692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9810", "title": "Inguinal herniorrhaphy: reduced morbidity, recurrences, and costs.", "content": "Costs, morbidity, and recurrences have been reduced in the repair of inguinal hernias. In 18 months 135 repairs were done using local anesthetics, prompt ambulation, and minor variations in the Shouldice technic. Men and women aged 22 to 84 years were operated upon. No recurrences have been reported, and urinary catheterization has not been necessary. Significant savings are available by abbreviated hospital stay. The majority of patients require only 24 hours for repair of a unilateral inguinal hernia and the observation period following it. The same basic repair is used for direct and indirect sliding hernias. Rebuilding the floor of the inguinal canal is essential. Postoperative pain has been minimal. Use of long-acting local anesthetics has proven helpful.", "contents": "Inguinal herniorrhaphy: reduced morbidity, recurrences, and costs. Costs, morbidity, and recurrences have been reduced in the repair of inguinal hernias. In 18 months 135 repairs were done using local anesthetics, prompt ambulation, and minor variations in the Shouldice technic. Men and women aged 22 to 84 years were operated upon. No recurrences have been reported, and urinary catheterization has not been necessary. Significant savings are available by abbreviated hospital stay. The majority of patients require only 24 hours for repair of a unilateral inguinal hernia and the observation period following it. The same basic repair is used for direct and indirect sliding hernias. Rebuilding the floor of the inguinal canal is essential. Postoperative pain has been minimal. Use of long-acting local anesthetics has proven helpful.", "PMID": 451693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9811", "title": "Combined oral L-dopa and propranolol for growth hormone provocation.", "content": "A convenient test of growth hormone (GH) provocation using oral doses of L-dopa and propranolol (L + P) is compared with insulin-induced hypoglycemia (IIH) in 28 children and adolescents with short stature. In eight of these children, growth hormone deficiency was diagnosed when GH failed to rise above 7 ng/ml. The GH levels of the remaining GH-responsive children were significantly higher after administration of L + P (P less than .05) when compared with IIH given before L + P on the same morning or on a separate day.", "contents": "Combined oral L-dopa and propranolol for growth hormone provocation. A convenient test of growth hormone (GH) provocation using oral doses of L-dopa and propranolol (L + P) is compared with insulin-induced hypoglycemia (IIH) in 28 children and adolescents with short stature. In eight of these children, growth hormone deficiency was diagnosed when GH failed to rise above 7 ng/ml. The GH levels of the remaining GH-responsive children were significantly higher after administration of L + P (P less than .05) when compared with IIH given before L + P on the same morning or on a separate day.", "PMID": 451694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9812", "title": "Physician attitudes toward relicensure: the simulated patient option.", "content": "Primary care physicians in one Southern city were asked to return a mail questionnaire stating their attitudes toward relicensure issues. Respondents overwhelmingly preferred continuing education as the method of creditation for relicensure, but as a second choice preferred the simulated patient procedure to formal examinations. Nearly one half of the respondents agreed to participate in a pilot study of this method. The MD author received more positive replies than the PhD author, possibly because different segments within well matched subsamples were motivated to respond.", "contents": "Physician attitudes toward relicensure: the simulated patient option. Primary care physicians in one Southern city were asked to return a mail questionnaire stating their attitudes toward relicensure issues. Respondents overwhelmingly preferred continuing education as the method of creditation for relicensure, but as a second choice preferred the simulated patient procedure to formal examinations. Nearly one half of the respondents agreed to participate in a pilot study of this method. The MD author received more positive replies than the PhD author, possibly because different segments within well matched subsamples were motivated to respond.", "PMID": 451695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9813", "title": "Practice monitoring as a means to direct individual continuing medical education.", "content": "Methods of practice monitoring currently available and requiring little of the physician's time are discussed. The application of these tools to direct individual continuing medical education efforts and to examine and improve patient care are illustrated from my experience and that of the Department of Family Practice of the Medical University of South Carolina.", "contents": "Practice monitoring as a means to direct individual continuing medical education. Methods of practice monitoring currently available and requiring little of the physician's time are discussed. The application of these tools to direct individual continuing medical education efforts and to examine and improve patient care are illustrated from my experience and that of the Department of Family Practice of the Medical University of South Carolina.", "PMID": 451696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9814", "title": "The complete health checkup: fad, fiction, or fact.", "content": "The ritual of the annual physical examination is scrutinized with respect to its clinical value. The periodic physical examination is not usually a health examination, because it does not include all components that affect a person's total health. The annual physical examination is usually not of importance to the physician unless disease is discovered. Seldom is the examination used as an opportunity to reinforce behaviors which have kept the patient healthy. It has been suggested that physician extenders be used to deliver primary care services, including comprehensive health examinations, with physicians used as backup. Laymen should not have to seek out specialists to give them examinations for each system of the body. Comprehensive health care should be available and accessible to all segments of the public with an emphasis on greater self-responsibility for maintaining one's health and enhancing one's wellness.", "contents": "The complete health checkup: fad, fiction, or fact. The ritual of the annual physical examination is scrutinized with respect to its clinical value. The periodic physical examination is not usually a health examination, because it does not include all components that affect a person's total health. The annual physical examination is usually not of importance to the physician unless disease is discovered. Seldom is the examination used as an opportunity to reinforce behaviors which have kept the patient healthy. It has been suggested that physician extenders be used to deliver primary care services, including comprehensive health examinations, with physicians used as backup. Laymen should not have to seek out specialists to give them examinations for each system of the body. Comprehensive health care should be available and accessible to all segments of the public with an emphasis on greater self-responsibility for maintaining one's health and enhancing one's wellness.", "PMID": 451698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9815", "title": "Adolescent pregnancy.", "content": "This paper reviews the literature of the past seven years concerning adolescent pregnancy. Social and motivational factors leading to pregnancy are discussed and weighed. Obstetric aspects of adolescent pregnancy are reviewed as well as the repercussions of this event. Goals and objectives are proposed, including: (1) assurance of health education, including family life and sex education, in all private and public schools, from elementary grades through high school; (2) assuring that family planning services are available, accessible, and acceptable to all school-aged individuals who desire such services; (3) assuring availability of inexpensive, or free, and easily accessible pregnancy testing, backed up by counseling about alternatives available to the pregnant school-aged woman; (4) assuring that pregnant adolescents have alternatives to childbirth, ie, abortion services, foster care services, adoption services; (5) assuring that pregnant adolescents receive optimal prenatal care, including social and other support services as well as medical care, and that their families are involved in the care process; (6) assuring that school-aged individuals and their families receive postnatal and follow-up care that includes social and other support services as well as medical care.", "contents": "Adolescent pregnancy. This paper reviews the literature of the past seven years concerning adolescent pregnancy. Social and motivational factors leading to pregnancy are discussed and weighed. Obstetric aspects of adolescent pregnancy are reviewed as well as the repercussions of this event. Goals and objectives are proposed, including: (1) assurance of health education, including family life and sex education, in all private and public schools, from elementary grades through high school; (2) assuring that family planning services are available, accessible, and acceptable to all school-aged individuals who desire such services; (3) assuring availability of inexpensive, or free, and easily accessible pregnancy testing, backed up by counseling about alternatives available to the pregnant school-aged woman; (4) assuring that pregnant adolescents have alternatives to childbirth, ie, abortion services, foster care services, adoption services; (5) assuring that pregnant adolescents receive optimal prenatal care, including social and other support services as well as medical care, and that their families are involved in the care process; (6) assuring that school-aged individuals and their families receive postnatal and follow-up care that includes social and other support services as well as medical care.", "PMID": 451699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9816", "title": "Blind-ending branch of a bifid ureter.", "content": "An example of a blind-ending branch of a bifid ureter in a woman presenting with a urinary tract infection is reported. Definition, diagnosis, and treatment of this anomaly are discussed.", "contents": "Blind-ending branch of a bifid ureter. An example of a blind-ending branch of a bifid ureter in a woman presenting with a urinary tract infection is reported. Definition, diagnosis, and treatment of this anomaly are discussed.", "PMID": 451700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9817", "title": "Iatrogenic superior vena cava syndrome with spontaneous improvement.", "content": "We describe a patient in whom superior vena cava syndrome developed after central venous catheterization and infusion of caustic medications. The diagnosis was proven by venography. Because anticoagulant therapy was contraindicated, the patient was clinically observed and the syndrome improved spontaneously. Follow-up venographic examination was normal.", "contents": "Iatrogenic superior vena cava syndrome with spontaneous improvement. We describe a patient in whom superior vena cava syndrome developed after central venous catheterization and infusion of caustic medications. The diagnosis was proven by venography. Because anticoagulant therapy was contraindicated, the patient was clinically observed and the syndrome improved spontaneously. Follow-up venographic examination was normal.", "PMID": 451701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9818", "title": "Rate-related left bundle branch block secondary to intra-his block.", "content": "A 67-year-old man who had chronic aortic valvular disease with first degree AV block and rate-related left bundle branch block on the surface electrocardiogram was studied by His bundle electrography. During conduction with narrow QRS complexes, the first degree block was AV nodal in origin. With spontaneous heart rate acceleration a QRS pattern of left bundle branch block emerged, and the His electrogram revealed split His potentials. This report adds strong support to the evolving concept that left bundle branch block, in some cases, actually may be secondary to block anatomically localized to the His bundle.", "contents": "Rate-related left bundle branch block secondary to intra-his block. A 67-year-old man who had chronic aortic valvular disease with first degree AV block and rate-related left bundle branch block on the surface electrocardiogram was studied by His bundle electrography. During conduction with narrow QRS complexes, the first degree block was AV nodal in origin. With spontaneous heart rate acceleration a QRS pattern of left bundle branch block emerged, and the His electrogram revealed split His potentials. This report adds strong support to the evolving concept that left bundle branch block, in some cases, actually may be secondary to block anatomically localized to the His bundle.", "PMID": 451703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9819", "title": "Endocarditis involving a left ventricular apicoaortic valve-bearing conduit.", "content": "Fatal infectious endocarditis involving a left ventricular apicoaortic valve-bearing conduit occurred in a 20-year-old man. Risk factors included early postoperative wound infection, broad spectrum suppressive antibiotic administration, and inadequate dental prophylaxis against infectious indocarditis. Palliative therapy included intravenous antibiotic administration and removal of the conduit. Lessons learned are discussed.", "contents": "Endocarditis involving a left ventricular apicoaortic valve-bearing conduit. Fatal infectious endocarditis involving a left ventricular apicoaortic valve-bearing conduit occurred in a 20-year-old man. Risk factors included early postoperative wound infection, broad spectrum suppressive antibiotic administration, and inadequate dental prophylaxis against infectious indocarditis. Palliative therapy included intravenous antibiotic administration and removal of the conduit. Lessons learned are discussed.", "PMID": 451704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9820", "title": "Septicemia during antibiotic therapy in neutropenic patients.", "content": "Two patients with acute leukemia developed septicemia while receiving antibiotic therapy. In both cases, the microorganism grown from the blood was sensitive to the drugs the patients were receiving. Areas of colonization by the same organisms were found at autopsy in the necrotic spleen and in the necrotic colonic mucosa. Septicemia developing during antibiotic therapy can indicate colonization of necrotic organs and appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures may be necessary.", "contents": "Septicemia during antibiotic therapy in neutropenic patients. Two patients with acute leukemia developed septicemia while receiving antibiotic therapy. In both cases, the microorganism grown from the blood was sensitive to the drugs the patients were receiving. Areas of colonization by the same organisms were found at autopsy in the necrotic spleen and in the necrotic colonic mucosa. Septicemia developing during antibiotic therapy can indicate colonization of necrotic organs and appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures may be necessary.", "PMID": 451708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9821", "title": "Acute hyperthyroidism precipitated by trauma.", "content": "An adolescent girl presented to the emergency ward with a fracture of the femur and subtle indications of acute hyperthyroidism which progressed. The diagnosis was confirmed and treatment was instituted. In the care of acute trauma, the less obvious signs of an endocrinopathy must not be overlooked.", "contents": "Acute hyperthyroidism precipitated by trauma. An adolescent girl presented to the emergency ward with a fracture of the femur and subtle indications of acute hyperthyroidism which progressed. The diagnosis was confirmed and treatment was instituted. In the care of acute trauma, the less obvious signs of an endocrinopathy must not be overlooked.", "PMID": 451709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9822", "title": "Primary liver amyloidosis producing obstructive jaundice.", "content": "Liver amyloidosis is very rare but is relatively common within the group of amyloid diseases. Jaundice seldom accompanies this condition. Since the results of liver tests are often abnormal, liver amyloidosis cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone. Diagnosis is provided only by liver or rectal biopsy. We have described an elderly woman with vague digestive symptoms for several months and jaundice for two weeks before hospitalization, and in whom exploratory laparotomy showed amyloidosis causing obstructive jaundice.", "contents": "Primary liver amyloidosis producing obstructive jaundice. Liver amyloidosis is very rare but is relatively common within the group of amyloid diseases. Jaundice seldom accompanies this condition. Since the results of liver tests are often abnormal, liver amyloidosis cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone. Diagnosis is provided only by liver or rectal biopsy. We have described an elderly woman with vague digestive symptoms for several months and jaundice for two weeks before hospitalization, and in whom exploratory laparotomy showed amyloidosis causing obstructive jaundice.", "PMID": 451710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9823", "title": "Systemic lupus erythematosus: an unusual cause of bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy.", "content": "Systemic lupus erythematosus is usually not associated with bilateral hilar adenopathy. We report a young woman with arthralgias, fever, pleuritic pain, peripheral and hilar lymphadenopathy, high titer ANA, and a low serum complement. Transbronchial lung biopsy revealed interstitial pneumonitis. SLE should be considered an unusual cause of hilar adenopathy.", "contents": "Systemic lupus erythematosus: an unusual cause of bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. Systemic lupus erythematosus is usually not associated with bilateral hilar adenopathy. We report a young woman with arthralgias, fever, pleuritic pain, peripheral and hilar lymphadenopathy, high titer ANA, and a low serum complement. Transbronchial lung biopsy revealed interstitial pneumonitis. SLE should be considered an unusual cause of hilar adenopathy.", "PMID": 451711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9824", "title": "Pneumothorax complicating acute asthma.", "content": "The association of asthma and pneumothorax in hospital practice is examined. The association varies from 1:300 to 1:1 000 acute asthmatics admitted to either a specialized or general unit. The clinical details of 18 patients with further reference to associated parenchymal lung diseases are discussed.", "contents": "Pneumothorax complicating acute asthma. The association of asthma and pneumothorax in hospital practice is examined. The association varies from 1:300 to 1:1 000 acute asthmatics admitted to either a specialized or general unit. The clinical details of 18 patients with further reference to associated parenchymal lung diseases are discussed.", "PMID": 451773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9825", "title": "Contact dermatitis of the eyelids.", "content": "A series of White women seen in a dermatological private practice were investigated for causes of dermatitis of the eyelids. Patch tests were done with test substances of known allergenicity used as ingredients of vehicles of cosmetics and medicaments and also with substances which could be conveyed to the eyelids by the fingertips from distant sites. Patients were also patch-tested and usage tests were done with cosmetics currently used on the face, nails and hair. The commonest cause of the contact allergic dermatitis of the eyelids was a variety of facial creams.", "contents": "Contact dermatitis of the eyelids. A series of White women seen in a dermatological private practice were investigated for causes of dermatitis of the eyelids. Patch tests were done with test substances of known allergenicity used as ingredients of vehicles of cosmetics and medicaments and also with substances which could be conveyed to the eyelids by the fingertips from distant sites. Patients were also patch-tested and usage tests were done with cosmetics currently used on the face, nails and hair. The commonest cause of the contact allergic dermatitis of the eyelids was a variety of facial creams.", "PMID": 451774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9826", "title": "Physiotherapy present and future.", "content": "The medical profession has been slow to recognize the advances in recent years in the practice of physiotherapy. The physiotherapist now undergoes a long period of training but is still struggling for recognition and appropriate reward in South Africa. The increasing complexity of physiotherapy has led to the formation of specialist groups, but the future of the profession must now lie with prevention as well as with therapy and rehabilitation. The increasing involvement of physiotherapists overseas in ergonomics and occupational health and safety is described.", "contents": "Physiotherapy present and future. The medical profession has been slow to recognize the advances in recent years in the practice of physiotherapy. The physiotherapist now undergoes a long period of training but is still struggling for recognition and appropriate reward in South Africa. The increasing complexity of physiotherapy has led to the formation of specialist groups, but the future of the profession must now lie with prevention as well as with therapy and rehabilitation. The increasing involvement of physiotherapists overseas in ergonomics and occupational health and safety is described.", "PMID": 451775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9827", "title": "Gangrene of the penis after circumcision: a report of 3 cases.", "content": "Three patients with gangrene of the penis after Xhosa ritual tribal circumcision are reported. A review of complications which may follow circumcision is given.", "contents": "Gangrene of the penis after circumcision: a report of 3 cases. Three patients with gangrene of the penis after Xhosa ritual tribal circumcision are reported. A review of complications which may follow circumcision is given.", "PMID": 451776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9828", "title": "Dilatation and curettage.", "content": "A retrospective study was undertaken in which the histopathology reports on 1,000 specimens of endometrial curettings were reviewed in order to assess the value of pathological examination of the endometrium. In this series the reports were of use in only one-half of the specimens submitted. A seemingly high proportion of specimens was unsuitable for histological assessment. The main factors contributing to the pathologist's inability to provide a useful report appear to be inadequacy of the specimen and a lack of information regarding the clinical and menstrual history. Alternative methods of endometrial sampling are also briefly reviewed.", "contents": "Dilatation and curettage. A retrospective study was undertaken in which the histopathology reports on 1,000 specimens of endometrial curettings were reviewed in order to assess the value of pathological examination of the endometrium. In this series the reports were of use in only one-half of the specimens submitted. A seemingly high proportion of specimens was unsuitable for histological assessment. The main factors contributing to the pathologist's inability to provide a useful report appear to be inadequacy of the specimen and a lack of information regarding the clinical and menstrual history. Alternative methods of endometrial sampling are also briefly reviewed.", "PMID": 451780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9829", "title": "Serum complement concentrations, nutritional status and the outcome of measles and measles pneumonia.", "content": "A prospective study of children with measles has shown a significant association between malnutrition and a poor prognosis. Levels of a number of complement components bore no relationship to the severity of the disease or to its prognosis. Some of the children with acute measles had depressed serum concentrations of factor D, Clq or C3, but complement deficiency does not appear to be implicated in the heightened susceptibility to secondary bacterial and viral infection so commonly found after acute measles.", "contents": "Serum complement concentrations, nutritional status and the outcome of measles and measles pneumonia. A prospective study of children with measles has shown a significant association between malnutrition and a poor prognosis. Levels of a number of complement components bore no relationship to the severity of the disease or to its prognosis. Some of the children with acute measles had depressed serum concentrations of factor D, Clq or C3, but complement deficiency does not appear to be implicated in the heightened susceptibility to secondary bacterial and viral infection so commonly found after acute measles.", "PMID": 451781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9830", "title": "Hypertensive heart disease and cardiomyopathy in blacks. Diagnostic confusion.", "content": "Four Black South African patients, representative of a larger group, are described in detail. The common features were long periods of observation, multiple hospital admissions in both normotensive and hypertensive cardiac failure, hypertensive retinopathy and good renal function. All had been diagnosed as having cardiomyopathy. Two of the patients in a normotensive phase became hypertensive after responding to therapy for heart failure. One patient with malignant hypertension showed the features of idiopathic cardiomyopathy at necropsy. These cases are regarded as evidence in favour of the hypothesis that many cases of cryptogenic heart disease (cardiomyopathy, congestive cardiomyopathy, idiopathic cardiomegaly) are in fact cases of hypertension presenting with normotensive cardiac failure.", "contents": "Hypertensive heart disease and cardiomyopathy in blacks. Diagnostic confusion. Four Black South African patients, representative of a larger group, are described in detail. The common features were long periods of observation, multiple hospital admissions in both normotensive and hypertensive cardiac failure, hypertensive retinopathy and good renal function. All had been diagnosed as having cardiomyopathy. Two of the patients in a normotensive phase became hypertensive after responding to therapy for heart failure. One patient with malignant hypertension showed the features of idiopathic cardiomyopathy at necropsy. These cases are regarded as evidence in favour of the hypothesis that many cases of cryptogenic heart disease (cardiomyopathy, congestive cardiomyopathy, idiopathic cardiomegaly) are in fact cases of hypertension presenting with normotensive cardiac failure.", "PMID": 451782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9831", "title": "Myelography using water-soluble contrast media as an outpatient procedure.", "content": "Established practice as reported in the literature is that all patients undergoing myelography with water-soluble contrast media are admitted to hospital for observation after the procedure. However, I believe that if the examination is expertly performed and with due consideration to the factors influencing the effects of contrast media used in myelography, it can be done as an outpatient procedure in most cases.", "contents": "Myelography using water-soluble contrast media as an outpatient procedure. Established practice as reported in the literature is that all patients undergoing myelography with water-soluble contrast media are admitted to hospital for observation after the procedure. However, I believe that if the examination is expertly performed and with due consideration to the factors influencing the effects of contrast media used in myelography, it can be done as an outpatient procedure in most cases.", "PMID": 451783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9832", "title": "Discography simplified.", "content": "Discography, which is the direct injection of a radio-opaque medium into the nucleus pulposus, provides a useful adjunct in the diagnosis and investigation of pain related to the spine and is planning surgery of the spine. However, the procedure is little used in South Africa and this article serves to discuss its value and to describe new modifications.", "contents": "Discography simplified. Discography, which is the direct injection of a radio-opaque medium into the nucleus pulposus, provides a useful adjunct in the diagnosis and investigation of pain related to the spine and is planning surgery of the spine. However, the procedure is little used in South Africa and this article serves to discuss its value and to describe new modifications.", "PMID": 451784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9833", "title": "The effect of oxygen and paraquat on the 14C-glucose oxidation of rabbit alveolar macrophages and lung slices.", "content": "In this study, we measured the effects of different concentrations of paraquat (0,01 mM and 1,0 mM) on the 1-14CO2 and 6-14CO2 production of rabbit lung slices and isolated alveolar macrophages, in 20% and 95% oxygen phases respectively. A 95% oxygen phase induced an increase in the 6-14C-glucose oxidation of contorol lung slices over a 3-hour period, while the increased activity of the pentose pathway over the first 2 hours started to decline during the third hour of incubation. Paraquat (1,0 mM) in 20% oxygen caused a consistent increase in the 6-14CO2 production by lung slices, but in a 95% oxygen phase gradually inhibited the 6-14C-glucose oxidation over a period of 3 hours. The pentose phosphate pathway was highly significantly stimulated by 1,0 mM paraquat in 20% and 95% oxygen over 3 hours. When isolated alveolar macrophages (viability 95%) were incubated in a 20% and a 95% oxygen phase respectively, both the 6-14C-glucose and 1-14C-glucose oxidation rates were significantly inhibited by 1,0 mM paraquat after 1 hour. Our results confirmed the initial increase in glycolytic metabolism induced by paraquat, but also inhibited by paraquat when lung slices were incubated in a 95% oxygen phase. The fact that the glucose metabolism in alveolar macrophages is more sensitive to paraquat exposure than that of cells in lung slices may be related to the genesis of the intra-aveolar pulmonary lesions described in the literature.", "contents": "The effect of oxygen and paraquat on the 14C-glucose oxidation of rabbit alveolar macrophages and lung slices. In this study, we measured the effects of different concentrations of paraquat (0,01 mM and 1,0 mM) on the 1-14CO2 and 6-14CO2 production of rabbit lung slices and isolated alveolar macrophages, in 20% and 95% oxygen phases respectively. A 95% oxygen phase induced an increase in the 6-14C-glucose oxidation of contorol lung slices over a 3-hour period, while the increased activity of the pentose pathway over the first 2 hours started to decline during the third hour of incubation. Paraquat (1,0 mM) in 20% oxygen caused a consistent increase in the 6-14CO2 production by lung slices, but in a 95% oxygen phase gradually inhibited the 6-14C-glucose oxidation over a period of 3 hours. The pentose phosphate pathway was highly significantly stimulated by 1,0 mM paraquat in 20% and 95% oxygen over 3 hours. When isolated alveolar macrophages (viability 95%) were incubated in a 20% and a 95% oxygen phase respectively, both the 6-14C-glucose and 1-14C-glucose oxidation rates were significantly inhibited by 1,0 mM paraquat after 1 hour. Our results confirmed the initial increase in glycolytic metabolism induced by paraquat, but also inhibited by paraquat when lung slices were incubated in a 95% oxygen phase. The fact that the glucose metabolism in alveolar macrophages is more sensitive to paraquat exposure than that of cells in lung slices may be related to the genesis of the intra-aveolar pulmonary lesions described in the literature.", "PMID": 451785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9834", "title": "The statutory noise level in South Africa.", "content": "Noise legislation in South Africa was introduced in 1974. However, in industry, compliance with the recommended maximum equivalent noise level of 85 dB(A) is poor. The subject of noise exposure is reviewed briefly and a tentative proposal for a temporary raising of the statutory limit is put forward.", "contents": "The statutory noise level in South Africa. Noise legislation in South Africa was introduced in 1974. However, in industry, compliance with the recommended maximum equivalent noise level of 85 dB(A) is poor. The subject of noise exposure is reviewed briefly and a tentative proposal for a temporary raising of the statutory limit is put forward.", "PMID": 451786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9835", "title": "Diabetic diarrhoea and steatorrhoea. A case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A case of severe diabetic steatorrhoea is presented in a young Black male with poorly controlled diabetes, symptomatic peripheral neuropathy, evidence of autonomic neuropathy with gastroparesis and raised faecal fat excretion. A pancreatic function test was negative as were tests of small-bowel structure and function. There was resistance to all therapy. The literature on diabetic diarrhoea and steatorrhoea has been reviewed, and it is concluded that they are expressions of the same entity which remains a clinical problem for which there is at present no effective management.", "contents": "Diabetic diarrhoea and steatorrhoea. A case report and review of the literature. A case of severe diabetic steatorrhoea is presented in a young Black male with poorly controlled diabetes, symptomatic peripheral neuropathy, evidence of autonomic neuropathy with gastroparesis and raised faecal fat excretion. A pancreatic function test was negative as were tests of small-bowel structure and function. There was resistance to all therapy. The literature on diabetic diarrhoea and steatorrhoea has been reviewed, and it is concluded that they are expressions of the same entity which remains a clinical problem for which there is at present no effective management.", "PMID": 451787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9836", "title": "A time series aggregation model for predicting the incidence of syphilis.", "content": "The incidence of infectious syphilis is much different from the number of reported cases in any given year; therefore, an estimate of the incidence is needed to formulate effective control programs for the future. A time series aggregation model that predicts the incidence of syphilis was developed. The model accounts for the number of treated but unreported cases, and it provides estimates of incidence for different age and racial groups. As an illustration the model was applied for estimation of the incidence of syphilis in the city of Chicago, Illinois. A sensitivity analysis revealed that a 10% variation in input parameters would cause an error of smaller than or equal to 4.1% in the estimates of incidence.", "contents": "A time series aggregation model for predicting the incidence of syphilis. The incidence of infectious syphilis is much different from the number of reported cases in any given year; therefore, an estimate of the incidence is needed to formulate effective control programs for the future. A time series aggregation model that predicts the incidence of syphilis was developed. The model accounts for the number of treated but unreported cases, and it provides estimates of incidence for different age and racial groups. As an illustration the model was applied for estimation of the incidence of syphilis in the city of Chicago, Illinois. A sensitivity analysis revealed that a 10% variation in input parameters would cause an error of smaller than or equal to 4.1% in the estimates of incidence.", "PMID": 451788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9837", "title": "Management of genitourinary trauma.", "content": "The spectrum of genitourinary injuries seen in a small community hospital over the past three years is presented. With the exception of the obvious ureteral injury, the key factor in management is adequate x-ray diagnosis. This allows the physician to estimate the type and extent of injury. In the clinically stable patient, renal injuries can be managed conservatively. However, in our experience a major renal injury is usually associated with major intra-abdominal injury and these patients require exploration. Bladder injuries may be diagnosed with a cystogram, and repaired. Posterior urethral injuries may be managed initially by simple insertion of a suprapubic tube.", "contents": "Management of genitourinary trauma. The spectrum of genitourinary injuries seen in a small community hospital over the past three years is presented. With the exception of the obvious ureteral injury, the key factor in management is adequate x-ray diagnosis. This allows the physician to estimate the type and extent of injury. In the clinically stable patient, renal injuries can be managed conservatively. However, in our experience a major renal injury is usually associated with major intra-abdominal injury and these patients require exploration. Bladder injuries may be diagnosed with a cystogram, and repaired. Posterior urethral injuries may be managed initially by simple insertion of a suprapubic tube.", "PMID": 451795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9838", "title": "Analysis of routine data describing morbidity from gonorrhea.", "content": "A system was developed for the collection, coding, and processing of data from routine reports describing morbidity caused by gonorrhea. These data are coded centrally, and tables that provide information about the age, sex, race, source of care, and geographic and temporal distributions of the population affected by gonorrhea are generated. Applications of the system are described; these include study of distribution of the disease, trends in utilization of facilities, seasonal trends in incidence of the disease, and several features of recidivism in the Denver (Colorado) metropolitan area. This system has potential as a tool for evaluation of disease control efforts in any standard metropolitan statistical area.", "contents": "Analysis of routine data describing morbidity from gonorrhea. A system was developed for the collection, coding, and processing of data from routine reports describing morbidity caused by gonorrhea. These data are coded centrally, and tables that provide information about the age, sex, race, source of care, and geographic and temporal distributions of the population affected by gonorrhea are generated. Applications of the system are described; these include study of distribution of the disease, trends in utilization of facilities, seasonal trends in incidence of the disease, and several features of recidivism in the Denver (Colorado) metropolitan area. This system has potential as a tool for evaluation of disease control efforts in any standard metropolitan statistical area.", "PMID": 451790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9839", "title": "Blood banking in the small hospital.", "content": "This represents an attempt to briefly outline the type of blood bank and transfusion service we at Montrose Memorial Hospital have developed and utilized to supply our blood needs. Basically it is a system based on a fairly large list of known, pretested, and available donors who can be contacted quickly to supply blood upon demand. Only bare minimum stock supplies are maintained. The major problem is waste of blood, but Montrose experience continues to fall below the average for rural areas. Although the starting and maintaining of this walking blood bank was and is a complicated involved, and somewhat tedious process, we have been happy with the results and have been able to supply in an adequate fashion the blood requirements of an isolated yet extremely active population with a sophisticated medical community.", "contents": "Blood banking in the small hospital. This represents an attempt to briefly outline the type of blood bank and transfusion service we at Montrose Memorial Hospital have developed and utilized to supply our blood needs. Basically it is a system based on a fairly large list of known, pretested, and available donors who can be contacted quickly to supply blood upon demand. Only bare minimum stock supplies are maintained. The major problem is waste of blood, but Montrose experience continues to fall below the average for rural areas. Although the starting and maintaining of this walking blood bank was and is a complicated involved, and somewhat tedious process, we have been happy with the results and have been able to supply in an adequate fashion the blood requirements of an isolated yet extremely active population with a sophisticated medical community.", "PMID": 451798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9840", "title": "Management of popliteal artery injuries.", "content": "In a series of seven popliteal artery injuries including two concomitant popliteal vein injuries and three knee dislocations, only one failure occurred. With appropriate training of emergency medical technicians and adequate supportive services such as blood banking and arteriography, the vascular surgeon in a small hospital setting can manage peripheral vascular trauma with acceptable results.", "contents": "Management of popliteal artery injuries. In a series of seven popliteal artery injuries including two concomitant popliteal vein injuries and three knee dislocations, only one failure occurred. With appropriate training of emergency medical technicians and adequate supportive services such as blood banking and arteriography, the vascular surgeon in a small hospital setting can manage peripheral vascular trauma with acceptable results.", "PMID": 451802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9841", "title": "Should vascular surgery be done in the small hospital?", "content": "This article presents our successful experience with vascular surgery at the Montrose Memorial Hospital. Before a decision is made to ban vascular operations from all but referral hospitals, hard data from additional small community hospitals concerning their experience must be obtained. Surgeons from small community hospitals should be urged to analyze and objectively report their results with vascular procedures before national guidelines are formed.", "contents": "Should vascular surgery be done in the small hospital? This article presents our successful experience with vascular surgery at the Montrose Memorial Hospital. Before a decision is made to ban vascular operations from all but referral hospitals, hard data from additional small community hospitals concerning their experience must be obtained. Surgeons from small community hospitals should be urged to analyze and objectively report their results with vascular procedures before national guidelines are formed.", "PMID": 451803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9842", "title": "Nontraditional education for surgeons.", "content": "Some of these programs would not work in every rural (or urban) practice. A partnership practice helps considerably. The ability to step into a medical center position with patient acceptance has been important. We feel that many similar opportunities exist--we have more planned--for other surgeons, and should be utilized. Both our geographic isolation and our small medical community have given us a sense of need for continuing education that is perhaps more acute than that of the urban-based private practicing surgeon. However, one has only to look about at most university surgical grand rounds and to note the paucity of surgeons practicing in those urban communities to realize that the feeling of isolation of the rural surgeon may be a very positive and beneficial force in his continuing education.", "contents": "Nontraditional education for surgeons. Some of these programs would not work in every rural (or urban) practice. A partnership practice helps considerably. The ability to step into a medical center position with patient acceptance has been important. We feel that many similar opportunities exist--we have more planned--for other surgeons, and should be utilized. Both our geographic isolation and our small medical community have given us a sense of need for continuing education that is perhaps more acute than that of the urban-based private practicing surgeon. However, one has only to look about at most university surgical grand rounds and to note the paucity of surgeons practicing in those urban communities to realize that the feeling of isolation of the rural surgeon may be a very positive and beneficial force in his continuing education.", "PMID": 451804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9843", "title": "Effect of regenerated endothelium on collagen content in the injured artery.", "content": "Collagen content and intimal thickness were measured in endothelialized and nonendothelialized zones of the aorta in rabbits for 30 days after a standard embolectomy balloon injury. A large increase in collagen content and intimal thickness were seen in the arterial wall covered by regenerating endothelium. In areas devoid of endothelial coverage, minimal intimal thickness occurred; no measurable increase in collagen content was measured. Interaction between arterial smooth muscle cells and regenerated endothelium appear to be necessary for collagen accumulation and intimal thickening after arterial injury and repair.", "contents": "Effect of regenerated endothelium on collagen content in the injured artery. Collagen content and intimal thickness were measured in endothelialized and nonendothelialized zones of the aorta in rabbits for 30 days after a standard embolectomy balloon injury. A large increase in collagen content and intimal thickness were seen in the arterial wall covered by regenerating endothelium. In areas devoid of endothelial coverage, minimal intimal thickness occurred; no measurable increase in collagen content was measured. Interaction between arterial smooth muscle cells and regenerated endothelium appear to be necessary for collagen accumulation and intimal thickening after arterial injury and repair.", "PMID": 451805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9844", "title": "Jejunoileal bypass and the defunctioned bowel syndrome.", "content": "Sixty-six patients who had a jejunoileal bypass with ileosigmoidostomy for intractable obesity were reviewed. Thirty-three patients had sudden, severe, upper pain develop in the abdomen with distention from one to four years after the original operation. All 33 patients had a repeat laparotomy from one to six years after the initial bypass procedure. In every instance, a dilated, hypertrophied defunctioned ileum was found proximal to the ileosigmoidostomy. In 11 patients, an ileosigmoid volvulus was present. In every instance, the ileosigmoid anastomosis was dismantled and an end-to-side ileotransversostomy performed. In one patient, an ileal volvulus developed proximal to the ileotransversostomy because of an inadvertent technicality and this was corrected by reoperation. The remaining 32 patients have been asymptomatic since the ileosigmoidostomy was converted to ileotransversostomy. To date, in more than 200 primary operations for morbid obesity, the ileum has been drained into the transverse colon. None of these patients have had obstruction of the defunctioned small bowel develop.", "contents": "Jejunoileal bypass and the defunctioned bowel syndrome. Sixty-six patients who had a jejunoileal bypass with ileosigmoidostomy for intractable obesity were reviewed. Thirty-three patients had sudden, severe, upper pain develop in the abdomen with distention from one to four years after the original operation. All 33 patients had a repeat laparotomy from one to six years after the initial bypass procedure. In every instance, a dilated, hypertrophied defunctioned ileum was found proximal to the ileosigmoidostomy. In 11 patients, an ileosigmoid volvulus was present. In every instance, the ileosigmoid anastomosis was dismantled and an end-to-side ileotransversostomy performed. In one patient, an ileal volvulus developed proximal to the ileotransversostomy because of an inadvertent technicality and this was corrected by reoperation. The remaining 32 patients have been asymptomatic since the ileosigmoidostomy was converted to ileotransversostomy. To date, in more than 200 primary operations for morbid obesity, the ileum has been drained into the transverse colon. None of these patients have had obstruction of the defunctioned small bowel develop.", "PMID": 451806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9845", "title": "The indications for transcervical mediastinoscopy in patients with small peripheral bronchial carcinoma.", "content": "A series of 80 patients with roentgenographic evidence of bronchial carcinomas 3 centimeters or less in size was analyzed as to the incidence of mediastinal lymph node metastases. Forty patients underwent transcervical mediastinoscopy prior to thoracotomy and 40 patients did not. Three patients with large cell undifferentiated carcinoma had mediastinal lymph node metastases which could be detected by transcervical mediastinoscopy. None of the 40 patients who did not undergo mediastinoscopy had palpable evidence of mediastinal lymph node metastases at thoracotomy. The survival rates for the two groups of patients were similar. On the basis of this study, we have concluded that mediastinal exploration is not routinely indicated in patients with peripheral T1, N1, M0 lesions.", "contents": "The indications for transcervical mediastinoscopy in patients with small peripheral bronchial carcinoma. A series of 80 patients with roentgenographic evidence of bronchial carcinomas 3 centimeters or less in size was analyzed as to the incidence of mediastinal lymph node metastases. Forty patients underwent transcervical mediastinoscopy prior to thoracotomy and 40 patients did not. Three patients with large cell undifferentiated carcinoma had mediastinal lymph node metastases which could be detected by transcervical mediastinoscopy. None of the 40 patients who did not undergo mediastinoscopy had palpable evidence of mediastinal lymph node metastases at thoracotomy. The survival rates for the two groups of patients were similar. On the basis of this study, we have concluded that mediastinal exploration is not routinely indicated in patients with peripheral T1, N1, M0 lesions.", "PMID": 451807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9846", "title": "Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy for chest wall recurrence of carcinoma of the breast.", "content": "Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin administration is effective for treating chest wall recurrence from carcinoma of the breast in selected patients. Our results suggest that bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy can be used alone, with systemic chemotherapy, hormonal therapy or in previously irradiated tissue. It represents local treatment for local disease that is well tolerated. Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin treatment is a useful clinical method for the treatment of local chest wall disease.", "contents": "Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy for chest wall recurrence of carcinoma of the breast. Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin administration is effective for treating chest wall recurrence from carcinoma of the breast in selected patients. Our results suggest that bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy can be used alone, with systemic chemotherapy, hormonal therapy or in previously irradiated tissue. It represents local treatment for local disease that is well tolerated. Intratumor bacillus Calmette-Guerin treatment is a useful clinical method for the treatment of local chest wall disease.", "PMID": 451808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9847", "title": "The influence of cortisol on wound healing of the skin and distant connective tissue response.", "content": "The effect of moderate dosage cortisol treatment on healing wounds and on the response in skin distant to the wounds was investigated. The stress-strain characteristics of a skin wound and intact skin specimens were examined. Also, skin thickness, water content and collagen content were measured. Cortisol treatment resulted in reduced extensibility and increased stiffness for ten day wounds, but unchanged failure energies; for 20 day wounds, failure energies were reduced, indicating reduced ability to withstand rupturing forces. Thus, the mechanical properties of healing wounds under moderate dosage, long term corticosteroid treatment were found to be slightly impaired. A systemic effect of wounding at day 10 resulted in decreased stiffness and increased collagen content of the skin distant to the wound.", "contents": "The influence of cortisol on wound healing of the skin and distant connective tissue response. The effect of moderate dosage cortisol treatment on healing wounds and on the response in skin distant to the wounds was investigated. The stress-strain characteristics of a skin wound and intact skin specimens were examined. Also, skin thickness, water content and collagen content were measured. Cortisol treatment resulted in reduced extensibility and increased stiffness for ten day wounds, but unchanged failure energies; for 20 day wounds, failure energies were reduced, indicating reduced ability to withstand rupturing forces. Thus, the mechanical properties of healing wounds under moderate dosage, long term corticosteroid treatment were found to be slightly impaired. A systemic effect of wounding at day 10 resulted in decreased stiffness and increased collagen content of the skin distant to the wound.", "PMID": 451809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9848", "title": "Open diagnostic peritoneal lavage in blunt trauma victims.", "content": "Open diagnostic peritoneal lavage was 97.8 per cent accurate for diagnosis of intra-abdominal injury in 2,072 blunt trauma victims. The only significant injuries missed were in certain patients with a ruptured hemidiaphragm, renal trauma and extraperitoneal bladder rupture. However, these injuries were identified by other means. False-postive lavage results are generally a consequence of technical error and can be minimized by careful surgical technique. Hemoperitoneum must be explained for all patients to prevent needless morbidity and mortality. Only diagnostic tests of proved value in blunt abdominal trauma should be used and risk to the patient must be minimized. We currently rely upon diagnostic laparotomy to evaluate hemoperitoneum in patients with a weakly positive lavage result confirmed by a second infusion. With this policy, approximately one of every four to five laparotomies was for injuries not requiring surgical therapy; and, the over-all morbidity rate and mortality was 12 and 3.5 per cent, respectively, in this group. By using open diagnostic peritoneal lavage in essentially all blunt trauma victims, we have had no deaths from either unrecognized intra-abdominal injury or delayed treatment.", "contents": "Open diagnostic peritoneal lavage in blunt trauma victims. Open diagnostic peritoneal lavage was 97.8 per cent accurate for diagnosis of intra-abdominal injury in 2,072 blunt trauma victims. The only significant injuries missed were in certain patients with a ruptured hemidiaphragm, renal trauma and extraperitoneal bladder rupture. However, these injuries were identified by other means. False-postive lavage results are generally a consequence of technical error and can be minimized by careful surgical technique. Hemoperitoneum must be explained for all patients to prevent needless morbidity and mortality. Only diagnostic tests of proved value in blunt abdominal trauma should be used and risk to the patient must be minimized. We currently rely upon diagnostic laparotomy to evaluate hemoperitoneum in patients with a weakly positive lavage result confirmed by a second infusion. With this policy, approximately one of every four to five laparotomies was for injuries not requiring surgical therapy; and, the over-all morbidity rate and mortality was 12 and 3.5 per cent, respectively, in this group. By using open diagnostic peritoneal lavage in essentially all blunt trauma victims, we have had no deaths from either unrecognized intra-abdominal injury or delayed treatment.", "PMID": 451810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9849", "title": "Surgical implications of acid ingestion.", "content": "Ingestion of mineral acid may be accidental or intentional. This form of corrosive usually sears the esophageal mucosa only to produce major injury to the stomach. The prepyloric antrum is almost always injured, but the fundus and cardia may be involved if the stomach is empty at the time of ingestion. Clinically, significant esophageal injury occurs in less than 20 per cent. Initial treatment is supportive, with early operation reserved for patients with severe ingestion in whom gastric necrosis rapidly ensues. In the more typical patient, however, late gastric outlet obstruction still makes surgical therapy mandatory. Subtotal gastrectomy with Billroth I reconstruction is usually possible and is the treatment of choice. Total parenteral nutrition is a useful adjunct.", "contents": "Surgical implications of acid ingestion. Ingestion of mineral acid may be accidental or intentional. This form of corrosive usually sears the esophageal mucosa only to produce major injury to the stomach. The prepyloric antrum is almost always injured, but the fundus and cardia may be involved if the stomach is empty at the time of ingestion. Clinically, significant esophageal injury occurs in less than 20 per cent. Initial treatment is supportive, with early operation reserved for patients with severe ingestion in whom gastric necrosis rapidly ensues. In the more typical patient, however, late gastric outlet obstruction still makes surgical therapy mandatory. Subtotal gastrectomy with Billroth I reconstruction is usually possible and is the treatment of choice. Total parenteral nutrition is a useful adjunct.", "PMID": 451811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9850", "title": "Anorectal supralevator abscess-fistula in ano.", "content": "Small percentages of anorectal abscesses and of chronic fistula in ano are supralevator, resulting from a high intermuscular abscess caused by infected anal glands or chronic ulcer of the anus. The disease is not to be confused with a pelvic abscess caused by other factors. The recommended treatment is internal sphincterotomy to permit drainage at the site of perforation in the longitudinal muscle into the rectum. On rare occasions, in critically ill patients, additional drainage of the pelvic abscess may be necessary through the fossa ischiorectalis or by a lumbar-retroperitoneal space approach.", "contents": "Anorectal supralevator abscess-fistula in ano. Small percentages of anorectal abscesses and of chronic fistula in ano are supralevator, resulting from a high intermuscular abscess caused by infected anal glands or chronic ulcer of the anus. The disease is not to be confused with a pelvic abscess caused by other factors. The recommended treatment is internal sphincterotomy to permit drainage at the site of perforation in the longitudinal muscle into the rectum. On rare occasions, in critically ill patients, additional drainage of the pelvic abscess may be necessary through the fossa ischiorectalis or by a lumbar-retroperitoneal space approach.", "PMID": 451812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9851", "title": "Regional versus systemic heparinization.", "content": "In 12 mongrel dogs, the comparative effectiveness of systemic versus regional heparinization was studied after injecting 100 units per kilogram of heparin into a systemic vein or regionally into an artery. Activated plasma thromboplastin time was used to monitor the heparin activity, and the coagulability of blood in the general circulation was compared with the coagulability of blood in the excluded circulation distal to the vascular clamps. Both methods of heparinization were found to be equally effective. Heparin injected regionally rapidly achieves a uniform distribution in the excluded, as well as the general, circulation and, as such, cannot be called regional. There was no difference in coagulability of blood in the general circulation compared with the blood in the excluded circulation. Results of this study suggest that regional heparinization is, in fact, systemic heparinization.", "contents": "Regional versus systemic heparinization. In 12 mongrel dogs, the comparative effectiveness of systemic versus regional heparinization was studied after injecting 100 units per kilogram of heparin into a systemic vein or regionally into an artery. Activated plasma thromboplastin time was used to monitor the heparin activity, and the coagulability of blood in the general circulation was compared with the coagulability of blood in the excluded circulation distal to the vascular clamps. Both methods of heparinization were found to be equally effective. Heparin injected regionally rapidly achieves a uniform distribution in the excluded, as well as the general, circulation and, as such, cannot be called regional. There was no difference in coagulability of blood in the general circulation compared with the blood in the excluded circulation. Results of this study suggest that regional heparinization is, in fact, systemic heparinization.", "PMID": 451813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9852", "title": "The treatment of locally advanced carcinoma of the colon and rectum by a surgical procedure and radiotherapy postoperatively.", "content": "Following resection of locally advanced carcinomas of the rectum and colon, 95 patients received moderate dose elective radiotherapy either to an inverted T field or the entire abdomen. In 27 instances, carcinomas invaded adjacent structures and were incompletely resected. Fifty-seven patients had tumors of the rectosigmoid and had either an abdominoperineal or an anterior resection. Thirty-five patients had a mean follow-up period of 26 months. Three of 35 carcinomas recurred locally, 26 of 35 patients are alive without disease. Thirty-eight patients had carcinomas of the colon and had either a partial or hemicolectomy. Thirty-one had a mean follow-up period of 24 months. Five of 31 carcinomas recurred locally. Seventeen of 31 patients are alive, without disease. Sixty-six of 95 patients have survived two years free of disease. One death occurred from radiation enteritis. Radiotherapy postoperatively for patients at a high risk of failure resulted in a low incidence of local recurrence.", "contents": "The treatment of locally advanced carcinoma of the colon and rectum by a surgical procedure and radiotherapy postoperatively. Following resection of locally advanced carcinomas of the rectum and colon, 95 patients received moderate dose elective radiotherapy either to an inverted T field or the entire abdomen. In 27 instances, carcinomas invaded adjacent structures and were incompletely resected. Fifty-seven patients had tumors of the rectosigmoid and had either an abdominoperineal or an anterior resection. Thirty-five patients had a mean follow-up period of 26 months. Three of 35 carcinomas recurred locally, 26 of 35 patients are alive without disease. Thirty-eight patients had carcinomas of the colon and had either a partial or hemicolectomy. Thirty-one had a mean follow-up period of 24 months. Five of 31 carcinomas recurred locally. Seventeen of 31 patients are alive, without disease. Sixty-six of 95 patients have survived two years free of disease. One death occurred from radiation enteritis. Radiotherapy postoperatively for patients at a high risk of failure resulted in a low incidence of local recurrence.", "PMID": 451814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9853", "title": "Measurement of toe temperature for assessing the severity of acute circulatory failure.", "content": "The temperature gradient between the ventral surface of the first toe and the ambient temperature was measured and compared with established hemodynamic measurements in 71 critically ill patients. Thirty-two patients had acute myocardial infarctions, 21 patients had primary bacteremia and 18 patients had primary hypovolemia which followed acute blood loss. The temperature gradient served as a more predictable indicator of survival or fatality than either arterial pressure or cardiac index in each group of patients. Patients who improved after treatment and survived had increases in the toe minus ambient temperature gradient to more than 4 degrees C., whereas a gradient of less than 3 degrees over an interval of 12 hours was typically observed in patients who subsequently died. These observations indicate that the toe minus ambient temperature gradient provides a valuable, inexpensive and noninvasive monitor of tissue perfusion in critically ill patients.", "contents": "Measurement of toe temperature for assessing the severity of acute circulatory failure. The temperature gradient between the ventral surface of the first toe and the ambient temperature was measured and compared with established hemodynamic measurements in 71 critically ill patients. Thirty-two patients had acute myocardial infarctions, 21 patients had primary bacteremia and 18 patients had primary hypovolemia which followed acute blood loss. The temperature gradient served as a more predictable indicator of survival or fatality than either arterial pressure or cardiac index in each group of patients. Patients who improved after treatment and survived had increases in the toe minus ambient temperature gradient to more than 4 degrees C., whereas a gradient of less than 3 degrees over an interval of 12 hours was typically observed in patients who subsequently died. These observations indicate that the toe minus ambient temperature gradient provides a valuable, inexpensive and noninvasive monitor of tissue perfusion in critically ill patients.", "PMID": 451819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9854", "title": "Reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy for cancer.", "content": "General surgeons are taking a more active role in the treatment of all the problems which face the patient who undergoes mastectomy. For many of these women, an important part of their adjustment is achieved by reconstruction of the breast. The number of women requesting reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy is increasing, and more women faced with mastectomy are asking their general surgeons for information about the procedure. It is hoped that as reconstruction of the breast becomes more widely appreciated, women will be encouraged to perform more frequent self-examinations and to seek earlier treatment of carcinoma of the breast. It is tempting to speculate that one ultimate benefit may be an improvement in the survival figures associated with this disease.", "contents": "Reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy for cancer. General surgeons are taking a more active role in the treatment of all the problems which face the patient who undergoes mastectomy. For many of these women, an important part of their adjustment is achieved by reconstruction of the breast. The number of women requesting reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy is increasing, and more women faced with mastectomy are asking their general surgeons for information about the procedure. It is hoped that as reconstruction of the breast becomes more widely appreciated, women will be encouraged to perform more frequent self-examinations and to seek earlier treatment of carcinoma of the breast. It is tempting to speculate that one ultimate benefit may be an improvement in the survival figures associated with this disease.", "PMID": 451820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9855", "title": "Assessment of anastomotic blood supply by Doppler ultrasound in operations upon the colon.", "content": "Doppler ultrasound was used to determine whether or not colonic anastomoses have sufficient blood supply for healing to occur. Experimental anastomoses placed at, or 1 centimeter from, the last audible arterial signal healed; those placed 2 or 3 centimeters distally had a high incidence of disruption. Results were statistically significant by chi-square analysis, p less than 0.05. Clinical parameters of intestinal viability would not have predicted anastomotic failure.", "contents": "Assessment of anastomotic blood supply by Doppler ultrasound in operations upon the colon. Doppler ultrasound was used to determine whether or not colonic anastomoses have sufficient blood supply for healing to occur. Experimental anastomoses placed at, or 1 centimeter from, the last audible arterial signal healed; those placed 2 or 3 centimeters distally had a high incidence of disruption. Results were statistically significant by chi-square analysis, p less than 0.05. Clinical parameters of intestinal viability would not have predicted anastomotic failure.", "PMID": 451821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9856", "title": "Treatment for melanoma of the lower extremity with intralesional injection of bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin and hyperthermic perfusion.", "content": "Twenty-seven patients with locally recurrent melanoma of the lower extremity were treated during a six year period. Recurrences were noted with primary lesions, at Clark's level II, III, IV or V, greater than 1.7 millimeters in depth of invasion and included intransit metastases, satellitosis, subcutaneous metastases and combinations of the three. Median time to recurrence was 12 to 14 months whether or not lymphadenectomy had been performed or lymph node metastases were present. Local recurrence was treated initially with intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin; 20 of 27 patients had complete or transient disease control and 14 patients were alive at 1.5 to 55.0 months. More responders reacted to dinitrochlorobenzene and purified protein derivative skin tests, although these parameters did not predict response to therapy. If intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin therapy did not control local disease or if the disease progressed toward the upper third of the thigh, patients underwent hyperthermic perfusion with L-phenylalanine mustard. Nine patients underwent ten therapeutic perfusions with objective response in seven of nine, with five being alive at two to 65 months. Intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin therapy and subsequent hyperthermic perfusion in bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin failures are rational treatment alternatives for locally recurrent melanomas of the extremity.", "contents": "Treatment for melanoma of the lower extremity with intralesional injection of bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin and hyperthermic perfusion. Twenty-seven patients with locally recurrent melanoma of the lower extremity were treated during a six year period. Recurrences were noted with primary lesions, at Clark's level II, III, IV or V, greater than 1.7 millimeters in depth of invasion and included intransit metastases, satellitosis, subcutaneous metastases and combinations of the three. Median time to recurrence was 12 to 14 months whether or not lymphadenectomy had been performed or lymph node metastases were present. Local recurrence was treated initially with intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin; 20 of 27 patients had complete or transient disease control and 14 patients were alive at 1.5 to 55.0 months. More responders reacted to dinitrochlorobenzene and purified protein derivative skin tests, although these parameters did not predict response to therapy. If intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin therapy did not control local disease or if the disease progressed toward the upper third of the thigh, patients underwent hyperthermic perfusion with L-phenylalanine mustard. Nine patients underwent ten therapeutic perfusions with objective response in seven of nine, with five being alive at two to 65 months. Intratumor bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin therapy and subsequent hyperthermic perfusion in bacille Calmette Gu\u00e9rin failures are rational treatment alternatives for locally recurrent melanomas of the extremity.", "PMID": 451822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9857", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen levels as an indicator for reoperation in patients with carcinoma of the colon and rectum.", "content": "The experience from the University of Minnesota with routine reoperations in cancers classified as Dukes' C suggests only a small minority of patients found to have asymptomatic recurrences will benefit from an additional operation. Also, morbidity and mortality will be significant. The presence of a rising carcinoembryonic antigen level following a potentially curative operation has been suggested as a more selective indicator for reoperation. Unfortunately, carcinoembryonic antigen levels are a far more sensitive indicator of hepatic metastases, the group usually not helped by operation. Patients with local-regional recurrent carcinoma of the colon and rectum--the group most likely to benefit from reoperation--often have normal carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The importance of patient selectivity for reoperation and the usefulness of the Astler-Coller staging system to define risk factors are stressed.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen levels as an indicator for reoperation in patients with carcinoma of the colon and rectum. The experience from the University of Minnesota with routine reoperations in cancers classified as Dukes' C suggests only a small minority of patients found to have asymptomatic recurrences will benefit from an additional operation. Also, morbidity and mortality will be significant. The presence of a rising carcinoembryonic antigen level following a potentially curative operation has been suggested as a more selective indicator for reoperation. Unfortunately, carcinoembryonic antigen levels are a far more sensitive indicator of hepatic metastases, the group usually not helped by operation. Patients with local-regional recurrent carcinoma of the colon and rectum--the group most likely to benefit from reoperation--often have normal carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The importance of patient selectivity for reoperation and the usefulness of the Astler-Coller staging system to define risk factors are stressed.", "PMID": 451823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9858", "title": "The surgical treatment of choledochal cyst.", "content": "Eleven consecutive infants and children with choledochal cyst were evaluated for operative resection of the cyst as the primary surgical therapy. Total excision and biliary reconstruction by choledochojejunostomy was successfully performed in nine patients. Simple intestinal drainage of the cyst was used in two instances because of severe liver disease. Four patients had coexisting biliary malformations. In all five infants, biopsy of the liver was consistent with biliary atresia. In addition, the extrahepatic bile ducts proximal to the cyst were obliterated in two infants. The findings suggest that pathogenesis of choledochal cyst may be different in infants than in older children. The indications for excision of the cyst in four patients were due to complications from earlier internal drainage procedures. In most patients, including all those having had a cystoenterostomy earlier, resection was done from the inside of the cyst, thus minimizing the danger of injury to the neighboring vascular structures. There were no operative deaths, and morbidity was minor. The traditional operation for a choledochal cyst has been internal drainage of the cyst into the intestine. Because of the high incidence of late complications and the frequent association of major co-existing biliary malformations, the procedure should be reserved for highly specific indications. Total surgical excision is the procedure of choice for a choledochal cyst.", "contents": "The surgical treatment of choledochal cyst. Eleven consecutive infants and children with choledochal cyst were evaluated for operative resection of the cyst as the primary surgical therapy. Total excision and biliary reconstruction by choledochojejunostomy was successfully performed in nine patients. Simple intestinal drainage of the cyst was used in two instances because of severe liver disease. Four patients had coexisting biliary malformations. In all five infants, biopsy of the liver was consistent with biliary atresia. In addition, the extrahepatic bile ducts proximal to the cyst were obliterated in two infants. The findings suggest that pathogenesis of choledochal cyst may be different in infants than in older children. The indications for excision of the cyst in four patients were due to complications from earlier internal drainage procedures. In most patients, including all those having had a cystoenterostomy earlier, resection was done from the inside of the cyst, thus minimizing the danger of injury to the neighboring vascular structures. There were no operative deaths, and morbidity was minor. The traditional operation for a choledochal cyst has been internal drainage of the cyst into the intestine. Because of the high incidence of late complications and the frequent association of major co-existing biliary malformations, the procedure should be reserved for highly specific indications. Total surgical excision is the procedure of choice for a choledochal cyst.", "PMID": 451825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9859", "title": "Chronic changes in the walls of experimentally produced aneurysms in sheep.", "content": "Twenty-seven saccular aneurysms were fashioned on the common carotid arteries of sheep using the venous transplants with a side-to-side anastomosis. The vessels were examined at varying intervals up to eight months postoperatively. The venous sacs exhibited severe phlebosclerosis of rapid progression and gross loss of muscle, and elastica was most prominent at the fundus. Some aneurysms leaked, some contained mural thrombus and several exhibited minimal quantities of lipid. The histologic changes were similar to those in man and experimental models entailing severe hemodynamic stress and can be regarded as atherosclerotic in nature.", "contents": "Chronic changes in the walls of experimentally produced aneurysms in sheep. Twenty-seven saccular aneurysms were fashioned on the common carotid arteries of sheep using the venous transplants with a side-to-side anastomosis. The vessels were examined at varying intervals up to eight months postoperatively. The venous sacs exhibited severe phlebosclerosis of rapid progression and gross loss of muscle, and elastica was most prominent at the fundus. Some aneurysms leaked, some contained mural thrombus and several exhibited minimal quantities of lipid. The histologic changes were similar to those in man and experimental models entailing severe hemodynamic stress and can be regarded as atherosclerotic in nature.", "PMID": 451826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9860", "title": "The short saphenous vein.", "content": "If an incompetent short saphenous vein is overlooked during an operation, varicosities invariably recur. A flush saphenopopliteal venous ligation is essential, since it is difficult to eliminate marked valvular insufficiency at this site by injections of a sclerosing solution. The prone position affords excellent exposure of the saphenopopliteal junction. Since the anatomy varies greatly, a flexible approach is desirable. If the anatomy is straightforward and the junction is close to the popliteal space, a transverse skin incision affords excellent exposure and heals well. Although it does not heal as well, a vertical or S-shaped incision is advisable in more complicated instances because it provides better exposure. If all valvular insufficiency is corrected at operation and the patient checked annually so that any new varices can be eliminated by injections, the leg should remain free of varicose veins.", "contents": "The short saphenous vein. If an incompetent short saphenous vein is overlooked during an operation, varicosities invariably recur. A flush saphenopopliteal venous ligation is essential, since it is difficult to eliminate marked valvular insufficiency at this site by injections of a sclerosing solution. The prone position affords excellent exposure of the saphenopopliteal junction. Since the anatomy varies greatly, a flexible approach is desirable. If the anatomy is straightforward and the junction is close to the popliteal space, a transverse skin incision affords excellent exposure and heals well. Although it does not heal as well, a vertical or S-shaped incision is advisable in more complicated instances because it provides better exposure. If all valvular insufficiency is corrected at operation and the patient checked annually so that any new varices can be eliminated by injections, the leg should remain free of varicose veins.", "PMID": 451827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9861", "title": "Cardiovascular effects of methyl methacrylate monomer.", "content": "Although cardiorespiratory human sensitivity to circulating methyl methacrylate monomer remains unknown, it is clear that the blood levels responsible for cardiocirculatory alterations in intact dogs are not obtained after insertion of acrylic cement in long bones in clinical practice. Circulating monomer considered as the sole causal factor for the hemodynamic changes described during orthopedic method is highly questionable.", "contents": "Cardiovascular effects of methyl methacrylate monomer. Although cardiorespiratory human sensitivity to circulating methyl methacrylate monomer remains unknown, it is clear that the blood levels responsible for cardiocirculatory alterations in intact dogs are not obtained after insertion of acrylic cement in long bones in clinical practice. Circulating monomer considered as the sole causal factor for the hemodynamic changes described during orthopedic method is highly questionable.", "PMID": 451829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9862", "title": "Gram-positive peritonitis in patients with infected ventriculoperitoneal shunts.", "content": "Patients with infected ventriculoperitoneal shunts may, in some situations, present with prominent abdominal signs and symptoms and no neurologic complaints. As a consequence, the correct diagnosis may be confused initially, and the appropriate therapy may be dangerously delayed. Definitive diagnosis is established by percutaneous tap of the shunt reservoir and analysis of the ventricular fluid. If the offending organism is gram-positive, externalization of the shunt combined with systemic and intraventricularly administered antibiotics, without laparotomy, is the treatment of choice. If gram-negative organisms are identified, exploratory laparotomy is indicated to rule out a ruptured viscus. In establishing the correct diagnosis and determining the appropriate therapeutic priorities, the co-operative efforts of the general, as well as the neurologic, surgeon are required.", "contents": "Gram-positive peritonitis in patients with infected ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Patients with infected ventriculoperitoneal shunts may, in some situations, present with prominent abdominal signs and symptoms and no neurologic complaints. As a consequence, the correct diagnosis may be confused initially, and the appropriate therapy may be dangerously delayed. Definitive diagnosis is established by percutaneous tap of the shunt reservoir and analysis of the ventricular fluid. If the offending organism is gram-positive, externalization of the shunt combined with systemic and intraventricularly administered antibiotics, without laparotomy, is the treatment of choice. If gram-negative organisms are identified, exploratory laparotomy is indicated to rule out a ruptured viscus. In establishing the correct diagnosis and determining the appropriate therapeutic priorities, the co-operative efforts of the general, as well as the neurologic, surgeon are required.", "PMID": 451831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9863", "title": "The rejuvenation of the anal sphincteroplasty.", "content": "Anal incontinence, as a result of traumatic lesions upon the anal sphincter, is a devastating problem. Direct approximation by appropriate repair may not produce the appropriate animation of the anal sphincter and return of function. The transfer of the gracilis muscle for anal sphincteroplasty, which was initially described for neurogenic dysfunction, is recommended for repair and reconstruction of traumatic and dysfunction. The use of this technique in two patients with anal incontinence following trauma proved to be helpful in alleviating the problems of the patients. A diverting colostomy is used prior to the repair of the anal sphincter. Physical therapy regimens of the reconstructed anal sphincter by the muscle transfer is done prior to closing of the colonic stoma and restoring normal continuity and function of the lower part of the alimentary tract.", "contents": "The rejuvenation of the anal sphincteroplasty. Anal incontinence, as a result of traumatic lesions upon the anal sphincter, is a devastating problem. Direct approximation by appropriate repair may not produce the appropriate animation of the anal sphincter and return of function. The transfer of the gracilis muscle for anal sphincteroplasty, which was initially described for neurogenic dysfunction, is recommended for repair and reconstruction of traumatic and dysfunction. The use of this technique in two patients with anal incontinence following trauma proved to be helpful in alleviating the problems of the patients. A diverting colostomy is used prior to the repair of the anal sphincter. Physical therapy regimens of the reconstructed anal sphincter by the muscle transfer is done prior to closing of the colonic stoma and restoring normal continuity and function of the lower part of the alimentary tract.", "PMID": 451834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9864", "title": "Protein supplementation in the management of degenerating liver function after jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "Five patients who began to have signs of degenerating liver function develop after jejunoileal bypass were treated with protein supplementation, either on an outpatient or inpatient basis, making use of preparations orally and intravenously. Subjective as well as objective evidence of improving liver function was obtained, and all patients have survived. It is important to maintain a high protein intake postoperatively. The most useful tests for assessing the status of liver function in these patients have been serum albumin, serum bilirubin and prothrombin time.", "contents": "Protein supplementation in the management of degenerating liver function after jejunoileal bypass. Five patients who began to have signs of degenerating liver function develop after jejunoileal bypass were treated with protein supplementation, either on an outpatient or inpatient basis, making use of preparations orally and intravenously. Subjective as well as objective evidence of improving liver function was obtained, and all patients have survived. It is important to maintain a high protein intake postoperatively. The most useful tests for assessing the status of liver function in these patients have been serum albumin, serum bilirubin and prothrombin time.", "PMID": 451835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9865", "title": "A peroperative technique for determining the extent of gastrectomy.", "content": "An easy, quick and practical way to determine the magnitude of gastric resection during operation consists of determining the length of the lesser and greater curvatures with a N\u00e9laton's catheter. According to the extent of gastrectomy, different denominations should be used. If a precise antrectomy is desired, the physiologic antrum-corpus border should be determined.", "contents": "A peroperative technique for determining the extent of gastrectomy. An easy, quick and practical way to determine the magnitude of gastric resection during operation consists of determining the length of the lesser and greater curvatures with a N\u00e9laton's catheter. According to the extent of gastrectomy, different denominations should be used. If a precise antrectomy is desired, the physiologic antrum-corpus border should be determined.", "PMID": 451836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9866", "title": "Trigeminal neuralgia: compression of the trigeminal nerve by an elongated and dilated basilar artery.", "content": "A patient with trigeminal neuralgia caused by direct compression by an elongated basilar artery of the 5th nerve at the zone of entry of its sensory root into the pons is presented. Rhizotomy of the portio major is a treatment of choice in such a case instead of simple microsurgical decompression. The elongated basilar artery is very firm and not readily movable with manipulation.", "contents": "Trigeminal neuralgia: compression of the trigeminal nerve by an elongated and dilated basilar artery. A patient with trigeminal neuralgia caused by direct compression by an elongated basilar artery of the 5th nerve at the zone of entry of its sensory root into the pons is presented. Rhizotomy of the portio major is a treatment of choice in such a case instead of simple microsurgical decompression. The elongated basilar artery is very firm and not readily movable with manipulation.", "PMID": 451837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9867", "title": "Quadriplegia associated with narrow cervical canal, ligamentous calcification and ankylosing hyperostosis.", "content": "The occurrence of three pathological entities of the cervical spine--ankylosing hyperostosis, calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, congenitally narrowed cervical canal--in a single patient is reported. This combination of pathology led to a severely narrowed cervical canal and a spine with abnormal mobility at non-fused levels. Minor trauma to the patient resulted in permanent quadriplegia.", "contents": "Quadriplegia associated with narrow cervical canal, ligamentous calcification and ankylosing hyperostosis. The occurrence of three pathological entities of the cervical spine--ankylosing hyperostosis, calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, congenitally narrowed cervical canal--in a single patient is reported. This combination of pathology led to a severely narrowed cervical canal and a spine with abnormal mobility at non-fused levels. Minor trauma to the patient resulted in permanent quadriplegia.", "PMID": 451838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9868", "title": "Primary intraventricular oligodendrogliomas.", "content": "Two cases of primary intraventricular oligodendrogliomas which were successfully removed by a transventricular approach using microtechniques are presented. Oligodendrogliomas in this location are very rare. The literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Primary intraventricular oligodendrogliomas. Two cases of primary intraventricular oligodendrogliomas which were successfully removed by a transventricular approach using microtechniques are presented. Oligodendrogliomas in this location are very rare. The literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 451839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9869", "title": "Intravasation of pantopaque during myelography.", "content": "Two cases of venous intravasation of Pantopaque during myelography are described. A brief summary of world literature is made. Features of the present two cases lead to suggestions and precautions useful in preventing or ameliorating this unwanted event.", "contents": "Intravasation of pantopaque during myelography. Two cases of venous intravasation of Pantopaque during myelography are described. A brief summary of world literature is made. Features of the present two cases lead to suggestions and precautions useful in preventing or ameliorating this unwanted event.", "PMID": 451840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9870", "title": "Lipoma of the corpus callosum.", "content": "A case of corpus callosum lipoma with presumptive diagnosis is presented. Review of the literature disclosed 84 cases with such diagnoses. Lipoma of the corpus callosum is a rare intracranial lesion, perhaps congenital and often asymptomatic, but can present with seizure disorder, headache, mental changes, paresis or paralysis. Twenty-one patients had been operated upon. Surgical treatment seems to be of no value in this disease.", "contents": "Lipoma of the corpus callosum. A case of corpus callosum lipoma with presumptive diagnosis is presented. Review of the literature disclosed 84 cases with such diagnoses. Lipoma of the corpus callosum is a rare intracranial lesion, perhaps congenital and often asymptomatic, but can present with seizure disorder, headache, mental changes, paresis or paralysis. Twenty-one patients had been operated upon. Surgical treatment seems to be of no value in this disease.", "PMID": 451841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9871", "title": "Localization of intracranial lesions from CT scans.", "content": "Accurate localization of intracranial lesions from data derived from CT scans is necessary in the planning of surgery or radiotherapy. Several methods have been described previously. This report describes a simple method for localization which has many advantages over other methods without loss of accuracy.", "contents": "Localization of intracranial lesions from CT scans. Accurate localization of intracranial lesions from data derived from CT scans is necessary in the planning of surgery or radiotherapy. Several methods have been described previously. This report describes a simple method for localization which has many advantages over other methods without loss of accuracy.", "PMID": 451842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9872", "title": "Primary rhabdomyosarcoma of the tentorium with peculiar angiographic findings.", "content": "Primary intracranial rhabdomyosarcoma is extremely rare, only nine cases have been reported in the world literature. To differentiate it from medullomyoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma should be devoid of neuroblastic elements. A case of rhabdomyosarcoma of the tentorial region in a 17-year-old boy is reported. Carotid angiograms demonstrated a peculiar neovascularity. Multiple cytologic preparations of CSF repeatedly contained rhabdomyosarcoma cells and CSF dissemination in the spinal subarachnoid space was documented at autopsy. The literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Primary rhabdomyosarcoma of the tentorium with peculiar angiographic findings. Primary intracranial rhabdomyosarcoma is extremely rare, only nine cases have been reported in the world literature. To differentiate it from medullomyoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma should be devoid of neuroblastic elements. A case of rhabdomyosarcoma of the tentorial region in a 17-year-old boy is reported. Carotid angiograms demonstrated a peculiar neovascularity. Multiple cytologic preparations of CSF repeatedly contained rhabdomyosarcoma cells and CSF dissemination in the spinal subarachnoid space was documented at autopsy. The literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 451844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9873", "title": "Chiasmal compression from metastatic cancer to the pituitary gland.", "content": "A case of chiasmal compression and panhypopituitarism from carcinoma of the breast metastatic to the pituitary gland is presented. A review of the subject of metastatic disease of the pituitary emphasizes the paucity of clinical involvement in most cases. Posterior pituitary insufficiency is the most common manifestation, with anterior pituitary involvement being much rarer, and chiasmal compression the least common.", "contents": "Chiasmal compression from metastatic cancer to the pituitary gland. A case of chiasmal compression and panhypopituitarism from carcinoma of the breast metastatic to the pituitary gland is presented. A review of the subject of metastatic disease of the pituitary emphasizes the paucity of clinical involvement in most cases. Posterior pituitary insufficiency is the most common manifestation, with anterior pituitary involvement being much rarer, and chiasmal compression the least common.", "PMID": 451845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9874", "title": "Aneurysm and arteriovenous malformation of the spinal cord.", "content": "A case is presented in which microsurgical technique was used to excise an intramedullary vascular lesion of the spinal cord. This kind of vascular pathology is uncommon. In this case, a radical excision of the malformation was obtained using the microscope. What appeared to an associated intramedullary aneurysm was totally removed.", "contents": "Aneurysm and arteriovenous malformation of the spinal cord. A case is presented in which microsurgical technique was used to excise an intramedullary vascular lesion of the spinal cord. This kind of vascular pathology is uncommon. In this case, a radical excision of the malformation was obtained using the microscope. What appeared to an associated intramedullary aneurysm was totally removed.", "PMID": 451846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9875", "title": "Calcified subdural hematoma in the elderly.", "content": "A 71-year-old patient with asymptomatic calcified subdural hematoma is presented. Review of the pertinent literature indicates that the lesion should be left untreated when incidentally found or not associated with progressive neurological symptoms and signs.", "contents": "Calcified subdural hematoma in the elderly. A 71-year-old patient with asymptomatic calcified subdural hematoma is presented. Review of the pertinent literature indicates that the lesion should be left untreated when incidentally found or not associated with progressive neurological symptoms and signs.", "PMID": 451847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9876", "title": "Intramedullary thoracic schwannoma.", "content": "A case of intramedullary thoracic schwannoma in a 40-year-old woman without signs of von Recklinghausen's disease is reported and the hypotheses as to its origin are discussed. The literature covering 11 other cases is reviewed.", "contents": "Intramedullary thoracic schwannoma. A case of intramedullary thoracic schwannoma in a 40-year-old woman without signs of von Recklinghausen's disease is reported and the hypotheses as to its origin are discussed. The literature covering 11 other cases is reviewed.", "PMID": 451849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9877", "title": "Spontaneous ventriculo-cisternostomy.", "content": "A case in which obstructive hydrocephalus was relieved by spontaneous ventriculo-cisternostomy is presented and the pertinent literature reviewed. Management of acquired obstructive hydrocephalus by percutaneous stereotactic or endoscopic third ventriculo-cisternostomy is discussed.", "contents": "Spontaneous ventriculo-cisternostomy. A case in which obstructive hydrocephalus was relieved by spontaneous ventriculo-cisternostomy is presented and the pertinent literature reviewed. Management of acquired obstructive hydrocephalus by percutaneous stereotactic or endoscopic third ventriculo-cisternostomy is discussed.", "PMID": 451850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9878", "title": "Subacute bilateral epidural hematomas in an infant.", "content": "Subacute bilateral epidural hematomas in a two-year-old girl are presented. No similar case in this age group has been reported. CT scans may increase the detection of bilateral epidural hematomas in children in the future. The diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics of epidural hematoma in children are discussed.", "contents": "Subacute bilateral epidural hematomas in an infant. Subacute bilateral epidural hematomas in a two-year-old girl are presented. No similar case in this age group has been reported. CT scans may increase the detection of bilateral epidural hematomas in children in the future. The diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics of epidural hematoma in children are discussed.", "PMID": 451851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9879", "title": "Unusual cerebral tuberculoma.", "content": "The unusual occurrence of a cerebral tuberculoma is herewith reported. The first manifestation of the tuberculous infection was an optic perineuritis. Treatment of the \"papillitis\" with steroids was followed by Jacksonian seizures--the signature of the tuberculoma. Surgical excision has produced a cure.", "contents": "Unusual cerebral tuberculoma. The unusual occurrence of a cerebral tuberculoma is herewith reported. The first manifestation of the tuberculous infection was an optic perineuritis. Treatment of the \"papillitis\" with steroids was followed by Jacksonian seizures--the signature of the tuberculoma. Surgical excision has produced a cure.", "PMID": 451852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9880", "title": "Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage complicated by communicating hydrocephalus: epsilon amino caproic acid as a possible predisposing factor.", "content": "An increased incidence of communicating hydrocephalus following subarachnoid hemorrhage has been observed on the neurosurgical service at Vanderbilt University Hospital during the past four years. This increase parallels the time interval during which epsilon amino caproic acid (Amicar) has been used in the preoperative regimen for intracranial aneurysms to prevent recurrent hemorrhage. Radiographic studies of 48 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage not receiving Amicar were compared with 46 similar patients treated with this antifibrinolytic agent. In the series not treated with Amicar, a 17% incidence of dilated lateral ventricles was found, with 10% of the series being symptomatic from their hydrocephalus. A total of 43% of patients in the group treated with Amicar demonstrated dilated ventricles, with 31% of the group clinically symptomatic. Mechanisms of action of Amicar possibly implicated in this increased incidence of hydrocephalus are discussed.", "contents": "Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage complicated by communicating hydrocephalus: epsilon amino caproic acid as a possible predisposing factor. An increased incidence of communicating hydrocephalus following subarachnoid hemorrhage has been observed on the neurosurgical service at Vanderbilt University Hospital during the past four years. This increase parallels the time interval during which epsilon amino caproic acid (Amicar) has been used in the preoperative regimen for intracranial aneurysms to prevent recurrent hemorrhage. Radiographic studies of 48 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage not receiving Amicar were compared with 46 similar patients treated with this antifibrinolytic agent. In the series not treated with Amicar, a 17% incidence of dilated lateral ventricles was found, with 10% of the series being symptomatic from their hydrocephalus. A total of 43% of patients in the group treated with Amicar demonstrated dilated ventricles, with 31% of the group clinically symptomatic. Mechanisms of action of Amicar possibly implicated in this increased incidence of hydrocephalus are discussed.", "PMID": 451853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9881", "title": "Ganglioglioma of the medulla oblongata.", "content": "A patient with signs and symptoms suggestive of symptomatic Arnold-Chiari malformation was encountered. Neuroradiologic investigation revealed the presence of a medullary tumor, which later proved to be a ganglioglioma. A review of the literature suggests that this presentation is typical of medullary gangliogliomas. It is proposed that the pathophysiology of this lesion renders it amenable to decompressive therapy via suboccipital craniotomy.", "contents": "Ganglioglioma of the medulla oblongata. A patient with signs and symptoms suggestive of symptomatic Arnold-Chiari malformation was encountered. Neuroradiologic investigation revealed the presence of a medullary tumor, which later proved to be a ganglioglioma. A review of the literature suggests that this presentation is typical of medullary gangliogliomas. It is proposed that the pathophysiology of this lesion renders it amenable to decompressive therapy via suboccipital craniotomy.", "PMID": 451854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9882", "title": "Cervical spinal angiography in midline spondylosis and herniations of intervertebral discs.", "content": "Three patients with clinical evidence of cervical myelopathy and degenerative osteoarthritis or herniation of intervertebral disc were studied with angiography. Angiography yielded information regarding the level of the most significant lesion better than did Pantopaque myelography when multiple lesions were present. Angiography also aided in differentiating hard central osteophytic from soft tissue encroachment on the spinal cord caused by herniation of a disc or thickening of the posterior longitudinal ligament. An occasional patient with cervical discogenic myelopathy suggested at multiple levels by myelography may benefit from the localization offered by angiography.", "contents": "Cervical spinal angiography in midline spondylosis and herniations of intervertebral discs. Three patients with clinical evidence of cervical myelopathy and degenerative osteoarthritis or herniation of intervertebral disc were studied with angiography. Angiography yielded information regarding the level of the most significant lesion better than did Pantopaque myelography when multiple lesions were present. Angiography also aided in differentiating hard central osteophytic from soft tissue encroachment on the spinal cord caused by herniation of a disc or thickening of the posterior longitudinal ligament. An occasional patient with cervical discogenic myelopathy suggested at multiple levels by myelography may benefit from the localization offered by angiography.", "PMID": 451855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9883", "title": "Meningiomas confined to the optic canal and foramina.", "content": "We present two cases, each with a small meningioma arising from the sheath of an optic nerve in the canal. Both cases demonstrate the paucity of clinical and radiographic signs occurring with these tumors. The diagnosis must be strongly suspected when a middle aged white woman slowly and progressively loses vision in one eye in the absence of remission or other neurological findings. We review similar cases reported in the literature that have been proven by biopsy.", "contents": "Meningiomas confined to the optic canal and foramina. We present two cases, each with a small meningioma arising from the sheath of an optic nerve in the canal. Both cases demonstrate the paucity of clinical and radiographic signs occurring with these tumors. The diagnosis must be strongly suspected when a middle aged white woman slowly and progressively loses vision in one eye in the absence of remission or other neurological findings. We review similar cases reported in the literature that have been proven by biopsy.", "PMID": 451856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9884", "title": "Meningioma of the anterior part of the third ventricle in a child.", "content": "The authors present a rare case of a meningioma in the anterior part of the third ventricle in a 10-year-old boy which was successfully removed through a right-sided transventricular approach. The literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Meningioma of the anterior part of the third ventricle in a child. The authors present a rare case of a meningioma in the anterior part of the third ventricle in a 10-year-old boy which was successfully removed through a right-sided transventricular approach. The literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 451857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9885", "title": "Use of hyaluronidase in the central nervous system.", "content": "Hyaluronidase, an enzyme which depolymerizes the mucopolysaccharide hyaluronic acid, appears to be tolerated by the human central nervous system and in the anterior chamber of the rabbit eye. Two patients with hydrocephalus and meningomyelocele had their condition curtailed by intraventricular injections of hyaluronidase, and in a third patient its use permitted delay of shunting. It was apparently effective in preventing a reaccumulation of cystic fluid in an intramedullary neurofibroma, and in reversing adverse effects of adhesive arachnoiditis of the spinal cord. Hylauronidase seems worthy of further investigation in disorders of the central nervous system.", "contents": "Use of hyaluronidase in the central nervous system. Hyaluronidase, an enzyme which depolymerizes the mucopolysaccharide hyaluronic acid, appears to be tolerated by the human central nervous system and in the anterior chamber of the rabbit eye. Two patients with hydrocephalus and meningomyelocele had their condition curtailed by intraventricular injections of hyaluronidase, and in a third patient its use permitted delay of shunting. It was apparently effective in preventing a reaccumulation of cystic fluid in an intramedullary neurofibroma, and in reversing adverse effects of adhesive arachnoiditis of the spinal cord. Hylauronidase seems worthy of further investigation in disorders of the central nervous system.", "PMID": 451858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9886", "title": "Acoustic neurinoma in a child.", "content": "A very large acoustic neurinoma in a ten-year-old girl is reported. The diagnosis was based on the clinical findings and the CT scan. The pertinent literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Acoustic neurinoma in a child. A very large acoustic neurinoma in a ten-year-old girl is reported. The diagnosis was based on the clinical findings and the CT scan. The pertinent literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 451859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9887", "title": "Intracranial arteriovenous malformations in the Chinese.", "content": "A series of 32 intracranial arteriovenous malformations in the Chinese is retrospectively studied. Their salient clinical, radiological and morphological features are presented together with their eventual outcome. Contrasting features from reported western series are compared.", "contents": "Intracranial arteriovenous malformations in the Chinese. A series of 32 intracranial arteriovenous malformations in the Chinese is retrospectively studied. Their salient clinical, radiological and morphological features are presented together with their eventual outcome. Contrasting features from reported western series are compared.", "PMID": 451860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9888", "title": "Superficial temporal arteriovenous fistula.", "content": "A case of post-traumatic arteriovenous fistula involving the superficial temporal artery is reported. The traumatic episode antedated the clinical manifestation and diagnosis by 28 months. The salient feature of the physical examination was the presence of a pulsatile mass with detectable bruit. This lesion, which was confirmed by angiography and computerized tomography, was treated by direct excision.", "contents": "Superficial temporal arteriovenous fistula. A case of post-traumatic arteriovenous fistula involving the superficial temporal artery is reported. The traumatic episode antedated the clinical manifestation and diagnosis by 28 months. The salient feature of the physical examination was the presence of a pulsatile mass with detectable bruit. This lesion, which was confirmed by angiography and computerized tomography, was treated by direct excision.", "PMID": 451861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9889", "title": "Intranasal meningoencephalocele with recurrent meningitis.", "content": "Two patients presented with repeated bouts of meningitis. RISA cisternography established the diagnosis in both cases. An intranasal meningoencephalocele was the cause of these infections. Frontal craniotomy and section of the peduncular connection of the meningoencephalocele and sealing of the bony defect was successfully performed in both cases. Postoperative investigations showed complete cure.", "contents": "Intranasal meningoencephalocele with recurrent meningitis. Two patients presented with repeated bouts of meningitis. RISA cisternography established the diagnosis in both cases. An intranasal meningoencephalocele was the cause of these infections. Frontal craniotomy and section of the peduncular connection of the meningoencephalocele and sealing of the bony defect was successfully performed in both cases. Postoperative investigations showed complete cure.", "PMID": 451863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9890", "title": "Cyst of the choroid plexus of the left lateral ventricle.", "content": "A cyst of the choroid plexus of the left ventricle is described. The cyst was lined by a choroidal epithelium and filled with cerebrospinal fluid. It produced an intermittent obstructive syndrome. The cyst was almost completely invaginated into the third ventricle, simulating an expanding process in the third ventricle. After microsurgical removal, the recovery of the patient was complete. Electronmicroscopy of the cyst wall is reported. Histological and neuroradiological features are discussed.", "contents": "Cyst of the choroid plexus of the left lateral ventricle. A cyst of the choroid plexus of the left ventricle is described. The cyst was lined by a choroidal epithelium and filled with cerebrospinal fluid. It produced an intermittent obstructive syndrome. The cyst was almost completely invaginated into the third ventricle, simulating an expanding process in the third ventricle. After microsurgical removal, the recovery of the patient was complete. Electronmicroscopy of the cyst wall is reported. Histological and neuroradiological features are discussed.", "PMID": 451864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9891", "title": "Successful treatment of a single cerebral metastasis from bronchogenic carcinoma.", "content": "Three patients with long-term survival after operations for a single cerebral metastasis from pulmonary cancer are reported as exceptions to the poor prognosis commonly associated with this disease. Evaluations at nine, five, and six years, respectively, after surgical treatment showed no evidence of recurrence. The pathology and the ramifications of computerized tomography and radiotherapy with respect to management of cerebral metastasis are discussed. In selected cases, aggressive treatment of both the primary and secondary lesions may result in prolonged and useful survival and even permanent cure.", "contents": "Successful treatment of a single cerebral metastasis from bronchogenic carcinoma. Three patients with long-term survival after operations for a single cerebral metastasis from pulmonary cancer are reported as exceptions to the poor prognosis commonly associated with this disease. Evaluations at nine, five, and six years, respectively, after surgical treatment showed no evidence of recurrence. The pathology and the ramifications of computerized tomography and radiotherapy with respect to management of cerebral metastasis are discussed. In selected cases, aggressive treatment of both the primary and secondary lesions may result in prolonged and useful survival and even permanent cure.", "PMID": 451865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9892", "title": "Microsurgical anatomy and dissection of the sphenoid bone, cavernous sinus and sellar region.", "content": "The topographic and internal anatomy of the sphenoid bone is reviewed with an emphasis on the relationships important to the transcranial and subcranial surgical approaches to the sphenoid sinus, sella turcica and cavernous sinus. A stepwise method of study and dissection is outlined. The equipment and materials needed for sphenoid bone dissection in the laboratory are reviewed.", "contents": "Microsurgical anatomy and dissection of the sphenoid bone, cavernous sinus and sellar region. The topographic and internal anatomy of the sphenoid bone is reviewed with an emphasis on the relationships important to the transcranial and subcranial surgical approaches to the sphenoid sinus, sella turcica and cavernous sinus. A stepwise method of study and dissection is outlined. The equipment and materials needed for sphenoid bone dissection in the laboratory are reviewed.", "PMID": 451866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9893", "title": "Embolization and superselective angiography by means of balloon catheters.", "content": "Three types of thin flexible balloon catheters were made. One of them is a releasable balloon catheter, which is prepared for embolization of intracranial aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations and fistulas. The other two are nonreleasable balloon catheters that are utilized for temporary occlusion, catheterization, and superselective angiography of the intracranial arteries. These catheters are useful experimentally for the above mentioned purposes. Our clinical experiences with catheterization and superselective angiography with our balloon catheter are reported.", "contents": "Embolization and superselective angiography by means of balloon catheters. Three types of thin flexible balloon catheters were made. One of them is a releasable balloon catheter, which is prepared for embolization of intracranial aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations and fistulas. The other two are nonreleasable balloon catheters that are utilized for temporary occlusion, catheterization, and superselective angiography of the intracranial arteries. These catheters are useful experimentally for the above mentioned purposes. Our clinical experiences with catheterization and superselective angiography with our balloon catheter are reported.", "PMID": 451867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9894", "title": "Continuing peritoneal lavage in high-risk peritonitis.", "content": "A total of 27 patients with peritonitis who were considered to have poor prognoses were treated with a continuing peritoneal lavage of 1.5% Dianeal containing gentamicin sulfate, cephalothin sodium, and lincomycin. Twenty-one patients survived (78%), and only two patients developed intraperitoneal abscesses. The major benefit was found in those patients with gross peritoneal contamination. Anastomotic integrity was not affected by the lavage.", "contents": "Continuing peritoneal lavage in high-risk peritonitis. A total of 27 patients with peritonitis who were considered to have poor prognoses were treated with a continuing peritoneal lavage of 1.5% Dianeal containing gentamicin sulfate, cephalothin sodium, and lincomycin. Twenty-one patients survived (78%), and only two patients developed intraperitoneal abscesses. The major benefit was found in those patients with gross peritoneal contamination. Anastomotic integrity was not affected by the lavage.", "PMID": 451869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9895", "title": "The early results of reconstruction of the femoral artery with a Gore-Tex prosthesis.", "content": "An analysis is presented of the results of forty-one reconstructions of the superficial femoral artery using a Gore-Tex prosthesis. There were four complications and the results, when the boundary conditions were good, were comparable to those obtained from reconstruction with autogenous vein. Most failures occurred in patients in whom the branches of the popliteal artery were obliterated. We concluded that a Gore-Tex prosthesis is a reasonable alternative when autogenous vein is unavailable, but it is overly optimistic to expect any prosthesis to work in circumstances where a vein is unlikely to work.", "contents": "The early results of reconstruction of the femoral artery with a Gore-Tex prosthesis. An analysis is presented of the results of forty-one reconstructions of the superficial femoral artery using a Gore-Tex prosthesis. There were four complications and the results, when the boundary conditions were good, were comparable to those obtained from reconstruction with autogenous vein. Most failures occurred in patients in whom the branches of the popliteal artery were obliterated. We concluded that a Gore-Tex prosthesis is a reasonable alternative when autogenous vein is unavailable, but it is overly optimistic to expect any prosthesis to work in circumstances where a vein is unlikely to work.", "PMID": 451870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9896", "title": "Hypotension and hypertension as consequences of baroreceptor dysfunction following carotid endarterectomy.", "content": "Arterial pressure regulation is often labile following carotid endarterectomy. Hemodynamic data from 100 consecutive endarterectomies allowed definition of three distinct postoperative blood pressure responses. A hypotensive response (group I) affected 28 patients in whom mean arterial pressure decreased from 168 +/- 29/90 +/- 15 mm Hg before operation to 110 +/- 21/68 +/- 16 mm Hg after operation (P less than 0.001). Maximum hypotension occurred 5.3 hours after endarterectomy. The preoperative pulse, 80 +/- 9 beats/min, fell to a low of 64 +/- 12 beats/min after operation (P less than 0.001). A significant hypertensive response (group II) affected 19 patients in whom mean blood pressure rose from 160 +/- 29/87 +/- 15 to 223 +/- 32/110 +/- 22 mm Hg (P less than 0.001). Maximum hypertension was noted 2.3 hours after endarterectomy. This was unaccompanied by significant pulse changes. Fifty-three patients remained normotensive (group III). Their preoperative blood pressure (150 +/- 14 mmHg). Fluctuations in pressure did not correlate with age, indication for operation, or degree of ipsilateral and contralateral carotid arterial stenosis. Postendarterectomy hypotension and hypertension appear to represent transient baroreceptor dysfunctions.", "contents": "Hypotension and hypertension as consequences of baroreceptor dysfunction following carotid endarterectomy. Arterial pressure regulation is often labile following carotid endarterectomy. Hemodynamic data from 100 consecutive endarterectomies allowed definition of three distinct postoperative blood pressure responses. A hypotensive response (group I) affected 28 patients in whom mean arterial pressure decreased from 168 +/- 29/90 +/- 15 mm Hg before operation to 110 +/- 21/68 +/- 16 mm Hg after operation (P less than 0.001). Maximum hypotension occurred 5.3 hours after endarterectomy. The preoperative pulse, 80 +/- 9 beats/min, fell to a low of 64 +/- 12 beats/min after operation (P less than 0.001). A significant hypertensive response (group II) affected 19 patients in whom mean blood pressure rose from 160 +/- 29/87 +/- 15 to 223 +/- 32/110 +/- 22 mm Hg (P less than 0.001). Maximum hypertension was noted 2.3 hours after endarterectomy. This was unaccompanied by significant pulse changes. Fifty-three patients remained normotensive (group III). Their preoperative blood pressure (150 +/- 14 mmHg). Fluctuations in pressure did not correlate with age, indication for operation, or degree of ipsilateral and contralateral carotid arterial stenosis. Postendarterectomy hypotension and hypertension appear to represent transient baroreceptor dysfunctions.", "PMID": 451873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9897", "title": "Correlative evaluation of angiography and pancreatoductography in relation to surgery for cancer of the pancreas.", "content": "The results of preoperative angiograms and pancreatoductograms in 37 patients with cancer of the pancreas were correlated with each other, with the findings at laparotomy, and with survival times. Tumors which could not be detected by arteriography and/or pancreatography were resectable, except for those located in the uncinate process. Among the resectable tumors, those which were identified only by pancreatography were confined mostly to the parenchyma of the pancreas and were nearly 2 cm in size. Those patients were expected to have a long survival after total pancreatectomy. In contrast, those tumors which were diagnosed only by arteriography arose from the subcapsular portion of the gland or the uncinate process and showed macroscopic invasion to the capsule of the pancreas. These tumors, recurred within 1 year, despite total pancreatectomy. The resectable tumors showing both vascular and ductal invasion were more than 3 cm in size and extended far beyond the capsule of the gland, and patients with these tumors died within 1 year after operation. In this group no difference in survival time was seen among those treated by the Whipple procedure, those by total pancreatectomy, or those by resection of the total pancreas and the portal vein.", "contents": "Correlative evaluation of angiography and pancreatoductography in relation to surgery for cancer of the pancreas. The results of preoperative angiograms and pancreatoductograms in 37 patients with cancer of the pancreas were correlated with each other, with the findings at laparotomy, and with survival times. Tumors which could not be detected by arteriography and/or pancreatography were resectable, except for those located in the uncinate process. Among the resectable tumors, those which were identified only by pancreatography were confined mostly to the parenchyma of the pancreas and were nearly 2 cm in size. Those patients were expected to have a long survival after total pancreatectomy. In contrast, those tumors which were diagnosed only by arteriography arose from the subcapsular portion of the gland or the uncinate process and showed macroscopic invasion to the capsule of the pancreas. These tumors, recurred within 1 year, despite total pancreatectomy. The resectable tumors showing both vascular and ductal invasion were more than 3 cm in size and extended far beyond the capsule of the gland, and patients with these tumors died within 1 year after operation. In this group no difference in survival time was seen among those treated by the Whipple procedure, those by total pancreatectomy, or those by resection of the total pancreas and the portal vein.", "PMID": 451874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9898", "title": "Hepatic cellular hypoxia in murine peritonitis.", "content": "Reduced oxygen consumption and lactic acidosis were observed frequently in patients with peritonitis. This study was designed to evaluate whether reduced oxygen consumption is secondary to deficient oxygen delivery or is a function of primary injury to mitochondria. Peritonitis was produced in rats by cecal ligation and perforation. Animals were killed at 2, 4, and 6 hours and agonally. Oxygen utilization was studied polarographically in isolated hepatic mitochondria with glutamate, pyruvate, and succinate substrates. State 3, state 4, respiratory control index (RCI), and ADP:O ratios were determined. Whole tissue and isolated mitochondrial ultrastructure were examined by electron microscopy. Systemic blood pressure and oxygenation were monitored. Hepatic tissue oxygenation was examined using a surface oxygen electrode. Peritonitis resulted in acceleration of state 3 respiratory rates and increased respiratory control indices at all time intervals. Maximal respiratory control was observed at 4 hours with all substrates. Whole tissue mitochondria demonstrated mild swelling and thinning of membranes and matrix. Experimental and control isolates showed similar orthodox-to-condensed conformational changes. Hepatic tissue oxygenation declined to less than 10% of control by 6 hours, while arterial Po2 was unchanged. The conclusions of this study are that lethal peritonitis results in (1) no primary injury to the hepatic mitochondria, (2) increased efficiency of hepatic mitochondrial oxygen utilization, and (3) reduced hepatic tissue oxygenation. The exact mechanisms of defective oxygen delivery require further study.", "contents": "Hepatic cellular hypoxia in murine peritonitis. Reduced oxygen consumption and lactic acidosis were observed frequently in patients with peritonitis. This study was designed to evaluate whether reduced oxygen consumption is secondary to deficient oxygen delivery or is a function of primary injury to mitochondria. Peritonitis was produced in rats by cecal ligation and perforation. Animals were killed at 2, 4, and 6 hours and agonally. Oxygen utilization was studied polarographically in isolated hepatic mitochondria with glutamate, pyruvate, and succinate substrates. State 3, state 4, respiratory control index (RCI), and ADP:O ratios were determined. Whole tissue and isolated mitochondrial ultrastructure were examined by electron microscopy. Systemic blood pressure and oxygenation were monitored. Hepatic tissue oxygenation was examined using a surface oxygen electrode. Peritonitis resulted in acceleration of state 3 respiratory rates and increased respiratory control indices at all time intervals. Maximal respiratory control was observed at 4 hours with all substrates. Whole tissue mitochondria demonstrated mild swelling and thinning of membranes and matrix. Experimental and control isolates showed similar orthodox-to-condensed conformational changes. Hepatic tissue oxygenation declined to less than 10% of control by 6 hours, while arterial Po2 was unchanged. The conclusions of this study are that lethal peritonitis results in (1) no primary injury to the hepatic mitochondria, (2) increased efficiency of hepatic mitochondrial oxygen utilization, and (3) reduced hepatic tissue oxygenation. The exact mechanisms of defective oxygen delivery require further study.", "PMID": 451875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9899", "title": "A combined approach to the noninvasive diagnosis of carotid artery occlusive disease.", "content": "A combined approach utilizing ophthalmosonometry (OSM), carotid phonoangiography (CPA), and ocular pneumoplethysmography (OPG) was applied to 31 patients with symptoms of carotid artery occlusive disease. Arteriograms were subsequently obtained in 70 of these patients, thus allowing the accuracy of each technique to be assessed in 140 carotid arteries. Both Doppler OSM and OPG correctly identified all complete occlusions of the internal carotid artery. However, greater than 50% stenoses were detected by OSM in only 52% and by OPG in 87%. Thus the cumulative accuracy in detecting hemodynamically significant lesions was 76% for OSM and 93% for OPG. The addition of CPA to OPG raised the combined accuracy of the two techniques to 98% for significant carotid lesions. The development of a regression line criterion for the OPG, in combination with CPA, permitted identification of 100% of patients with bilateral carotid artery lesions. However 75% of patients with symptomatic, ulcerating plaques were missed by all three tests, thereby emphasizing the need for angiography in appropriately symptomatic patients. The principal usefulness of noninvasive testing in evaluating patients with carotid artery occlusive disease is for: (1) asymptomatic bruits, (2) atypical, nonhemispheric symptoms, or (3) following carotid endarterectomy.", "contents": "A combined approach to the noninvasive diagnosis of carotid artery occlusive disease. A combined approach utilizing ophthalmosonometry (OSM), carotid phonoangiography (CPA), and ocular pneumoplethysmography (OPG) was applied to 31 patients with symptoms of carotid artery occlusive disease. Arteriograms were subsequently obtained in 70 of these patients, thus allowing the accuracy of each technique to be assessed in 140 carotid arteries. Both Doppler OSM and OPG correctly identified all complete occlusions of the internal carotid artery. However, greater than 50% stenoses were detected by OSM in only 52% and by OPG in 87%. Thus the cumulative accuracy in detecting hemodynamically significant lesions was 76% for OSM and 93% for OPG. The addition of CPA to OPG raised the combined accuracy of the two techniques to 98% for significant carotid lesions. The development of a regression line criterion for the OPG, in combination with CPA, permitted identification of 100% of patients with bilateral carotid artery lesions. However 75% of patients with symptomatic, ulcerating plaques were missed by all three tests, thereby emphasizing the need for angiography in appropriately symptomatic patients. The principal usefulness of noninvasive testing in evaluating patients with carotid artery occlusive disease is for: (1) asymptomatic bruits, (2) atypical, nonhemispheric symptoms, or (3) following carotid endarterectomy.", "PMID": 451876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9900", "title": "Successful management of popliteal arterial disruption in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.", "content": "A review of the literature on Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with particular attention to vascular complications enabled us to outline an orderly diagnostic and therapeutic plan which has allowed salvage of an individual with a popliteal false aneurysm. In patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and brachial, superficial femoral, or popliteal arterial disruption, the use of proximal tourniquet control to allow ligation of the disrupted artery under a no-flow, no-pressure situation is recommended. The ligations should be carried out with a large ligature or possibly with large hemoclips and/or reinforced with multiple fine atraumatic vascular sutures distally. These patients may be treated successfully for flexion contractures because of the laxness of their tissues.", "contents": "Successful management of popliteal arterial disruption in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. A review of the literature on Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with particular attention to vascular complications enabled us to outline an orderly diagnostic and therapeutic plan which has allowed salvage of an individual with a popliteal false aneurysm. In patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and brachial, superficial femoral, or popliteal arterial disruption, the use of proximal tourniquet control to allow ligation of the disrupted artery under a no-flow, no-pressure situation is recommended. The ligations should be carried out with a large ligature or possibly with large hemoclips and/or reinforced with multiple fine atraumatic vascular sutures distally. These patients may be treated successfully for flexion contractures because of the laxness of their tissues.", "PMID": 451878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9901", "title": "Fibromuscular dysplasia of the external iliac arteries: surgical treatment by graduated internal dilatation technique.", "content": "A case of fibromuscular dysplasia of the external iliac arteries treated by graduated internal dilatation is presented. At follow-up extending to 7 years, the external iliac arteries are patent with no evidence of recurrent disease by arteriography, and the patient remains asymptomatic. The recently reported successes with percutaneous balloon catheter angioplasty offers a nonsurgical alternative in the treatment of external iliac fibromuscular disease. A consideration of balloon catheter angioplasty in future similar cases is suggested. If balloon catheter angioplasty is unsuccessful, the option of operation remains available.", "contents": "Fibromuscular dysplasia of the external iliac arteries: surgical treatment by graduated internal dilatation technique. A case of fibromuscular dysplasia of the external iliac arteries treated by graduated internal dilatation is presented. At follow-up extending to 7 years, the external iliac arteries are patent with no evidence of recurrent disease by arteriography, and the patient remains asymptomatic. The recently reported successes with percutaneous balloon catheter angioplasty offers a nonsurgical alternative in the treatment of external iliac fibromuscular disease. A consideration of balloon catheter angioplasty in future similar cases is suggested. If balloon catheter angioplasty is unsuccessful, the option of operation remains available.", "PMID": 451879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9902", "title": "A prospective study of Doppler pressures and segmental plethysmography before and following aortofemoral bypass. Implications for predicting success and for adopting a uniform method of classifying arterial disease.", "content": "To determine the clinical and hemodynamic changes associated with aortofemoral bypass, 44 limbs of 31 patients underwent segmental plethysmography (PVR) and Doppler pressures (DSP) before operation, immediately after operation, and again at 6 months. Prior to operation patients were separated by angiographic criteria into two groups: aortoiliac segment disease alone (AI) (n = 22), and aortoiliac and femoropopliteal segment disease (AIFP) (n = 22). At 6 months the two groups were subdivided into four groups based on relief (oSx) or lack of relief (+Sx) of symptoms. Before operation the only significant difference between the four groups was a higher thigh PVR and calf DSP in the AI + Sx group. Six month PVR values in AIoSx were improved nearly twofold over preoperative measurements at the thigh and calf, but at the thigh level only for AIFPxSx. DSP was increased at all three levels in both AI and AIFPoSx groups. No hemodynamic improvement occurred in either the AI or the AIFP + Sx groups. A derivative index of PVR (thigh-ankle/15 mm) or the FPomega was significantly lower in AIFOsSx before operation. There was a significant disparity between classification by hemodynamics and by symptoms prior to operation which lessened somewhat after operation. These studies suggest that success or failure can be predicted before operation in AIFP by FPomega, and arterial disease should be classified by a combination of symptoms, angiography, and hemodynamics.", "contents": "A prospective study of Doppler pressures and segmental plethysmography before and following aortofemoral bypass. Implications for predicting success and for adopting a uniform method of classifying arterial disease. To determine the clinical and hemodynamic changes associated with aortofemoral bypass, 44 limbs of 31 patients underwent segmental plethysmography (PVR) and Doppler pressures (DSP) before operation, immediately after operation, and again at 6 months. Prior to operation patients were separated by angiographic criteria into two groups: aortoiliac segment disease alone (AI) (n = 22), and aortoiliac and femoropopliteal segment disease (AIFP) (n = 22). At 6 months the two groups were subdivided into four groups based on relief (oSx) or lack of relief (+Sx) of symptoms. Before operation the only significant difference between the four groups was a higher thigh PVR and calf DSP in the AI + Sx group. Six month PVR values in AIoSx were improved nearly twofold over preoperative measurements at the thigh and calf, but at the thigh level only for AIFPxSx. DSP was increased at all three levels in both AI and AIFPoSx groups. No hemodynamic improvement occurred in either the AI or the AIFP + Sx groups. A derivative index of PVR (thigh-ankle/15 mm) or the FPomega was significantly lower in AIFOsSx before operation. There was a significant disparity between classification by hemodynamics and by symptoms prior to operation which lessened somewhat after operation. These studies suggest that success or failure can be predicted before operation in AIFP by FPomega, and arterial disease should be classified by a combination of symptoms, angiography, and hemodynamics.", "PMID": 451884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9903", "title": "Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, thrombosis, and hemorrhage.", "content": "Twenty-two patients developed significant thrombocytopenia (5,000 to 96,000/cu mm; mean, 29,000/cu mm) while receiving prophylactic or therapeutic heparin. Seventeen of them developed serious thrombohemorrhagic complications which accelerated the deaths of six and contributed to the late death of one. Cessation of heparin therapy led to an immediate remission of the thrombohemorrhagic complications and thrombocytopenia, with no patient who was not already moribund dying, once appropriate therapy had been instituted. Platelet-count monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving heparin for more than 6 days, with cessation of heparin therapy mandatory for the successful management of patients with this disorder. Evidence is presented for an immunologic etiology for this disorder.", "contents": "Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, thrombosis, and hemorrhage. Twenty-two patients developed significant thrombocytopenia (5,000 to 96,000/cu mm; mean, 29,000/cu mm) while receiving prophylactic or therapeutic heparin. Seventeen of them developed serious thrombohemorrhagic complications which accelerated the deaths of six and contributed to the late death of one. Cessation of heparin therapy led to an immediate remission of the thrombohemorrhagic complications and thrombocytopenia, with no patient who was not already moribund dying, once appropriate therapy had been instituted. Platelet-count monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving heparin for more than 6 days, with cessation of heparin therapy mandatory for the successful management of patients with this disorder. Evidence is presented for an immunologic etiology for this disorder.", "PMID": 451885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9904", "title": "Protein malnutrition following intestinal bypass for morbid obesity.", "content": "Intestinal bypass surgery, performed for weight reduction in the morbidly obese patient, is frequently complicated by the development and hepatic complications. In 44 morbidly obese individuals, 55 inches of proximal jejunum were anastomosed, end to side, to 5 inches of distal ileum. All the patients were followed with body composition measurements, performed by multiple isotope dilution, prior to and at regular time intervals following bypass surgery. In 33 patients a decrease in body fat accounted for the entire postbypass weight loss, while the lean body mass remained normal in both size and composition. In these patients, at 1 year, body weights had decreased by 24.4 +/- 2.1%, while the body cell masses had decreased by 2.1 +/- 7.1%. In the remaining 11 patients, the postbypass weight loss resulted from a loss of both body fat and body cell mass. Their body weights at 1 year had decreased by 27.0 +/- 3.0%, while the body fat and body cell mass. Their body weights at 1 year had decreased by 27.0 +/- 3.0%, while the body cell masses decreased by 22.0 +/- 6.1%. Furthermore, their body compositions were characteristic of protein malnutrition with a contracted body cell mass and an expanded extracellular mass. Six of these 11 patients have required admission to hospital on 10 occasions because of malaise, anorexia, debilitating weakness, hypokalemia, and abnormal liver function. They were treated for 14.5 +/- 1.9 days with an intravenous infusion of amino acids without additional nonprotein calories. The body composition, initially characteristic of malnutrition, became normal. Their symptoms disappeared and hepatic function returned to normal. Subsequently a high-protein diet was required to prevent a recurrence of symptoms and to maintain a normal body composition. The data indicate that protein malnutrition developed in 11 of 44 patients undergoing jejunoileal bypass for weight reduction.", "contents": "Protein malnutrition following intestinal bypass for morbid obesity. Intestinal bypass surgery, performed for weight reduction in the morbidly obese patient, is frequently complicated by the development and hepatic complications. In 44 morbidly obese individuals, 55 inches of proximal jejunum were anastomosed, end to side, to 5 inches of distal ileum. All the patients were followed with body composition measurements, performed by multiple isotope dilution, prior to and at regular time intervals following bypass surgery. In 33 patients a decrease in body fat accounted for the entire postbypass weight loss, while the lean body mass remained normal in both size and composition. In these patients, at 1 year, body weights had decreased by 24.4 +/- 2.1%, while the body cell masses had decreased by 2.1 +/- 7.1%. In the remaining 11 patients, the postbypass weight loss resulted from a loss of both body fat and body cell mass. Their body weights at 1 year had decreased by 27.0 +/- 3.0%, while the body fat and body cell mass. Their body weights at 1 year had decreased by 27.0 +/- 3.0%, while the body cell masses decreased by 22.0 +/- 6.1%. Furthermore, their body compositions were characteristic of protein malnutrition with a contracted body cell mass and an expanded extracellular mass. Six of these 11 patients have required admission to hospital on 10 occasions because of malaise, anorexia, debilitating weakness, hypokalemia, and abnormal liver function. They were treated for 14.5 +/- 1.9 days with an intravenous infusion of amino acids without additional nonprotein calories. The body composition, initially characteristic of malnutrition, became normal. Their symptoms disappeared and hepatic function returned to normal. Subsequently a high-protein diet was required to prevent a recurrence of symptoms and to maintain a normal body composition. The data indicate that protein malnutrition developed in 11 of 44 patients undergoing jejunoileal bypass for weight reduction.", "PMID": 451887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9905", "title": "Sex, side, and severity in spontaneous malformations of fetal A/JKt mice, and their associations with each other and with fetal weight.", "content": "Cleft lip and palate (CLP) and open eyelid (OL) occur spontaneously in rather high frequencies in A/JKt mice, but vary greatly in their degree, laterality, and sex distribution. CLP occurs significantly more often in females, and OL even more often in males, than in the opposite sex. The female preponderence for CLP was largely if not entirely due to the increased rate of occurrence of left and incomplete forms of the defect, and to the excess in females heavier than the female median weight; whereas the male preponderance for OL could not be explained by any clear or major disparities of these sorts. CLP and OL occurred together more often than expected in individuals, but not in litters. There was no relation between the rate of defects in successive litters of the same female; nor was a relation detected between extent and severity of defect.", "contents": "Sex, side, and severity in spontaneous malformations of fetal A/JKt mice, and their associations with each other and with fetal weight. Cleft lip and palate (CLP) and open eyelid (OL) occur spontaneously in rather high frequencies in A/JKt mice, but vary greatly in their degree, laterality, and sex distribution. CLP occurs significantly more often in females, and OL even more often in males, than in the opposite sex. The female preponderence for CLP was largely if not entirely due to the increased rate of occurrence of left and incomplete forms of the defect, and to the excess in females heavier than the female median weight; whereas the male preponderance for OL could not be explained by any clear or major disparities of these sorts. CLP and OL occurred together more often than expected in individuals, but not in litters. There was no relation between the rate of defects in successive litters of the same female; nor was a relation detected between extent and severity of defect.", "PMID": 451930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9906", "title": "Prevention by diazepam of adverse effects of maternal restraint stress on postnatal development and learning in the rat.", "content": "Rats on days 12--14 of pregnancy were treated with restraint stress alone (9h daily), restraint stress plus diazepam (1 mg/kg, twice daily), diazepam alone, or left as untreated controls. Postnatal development and behaviour was assessed on a wide-ranging battery of tests. Offspring of mothers subjected to restraint stress alone were significantly retarded on a number of developmental measures including growth, ear-opening, cliff avoidance response, auditory startle response and mid-air righting reflex. When adult these offspring also showed significantly impaired learning ability in a swimming maze. However, the rate of development and learning ability in the restraint plus diazepam or diazepam alone groups was comparable to or slightly advanced of that in untreated controls. It is concluded that concurrent administration of a low dose of the tranquiliser diazepam during restraint stress prevents the adverse postnatal effects of maternal restraint stress.", "contents": "Prevention by diazepam of adverse effects of maternal restraint stress on postnatal development and learning in the rat. Rats on days 12--14 of pregnancy were treated with restraint stress alone (9h daily), restraint stress plus diazepam (1 mg/kg, twice daily), diazepam alone, or left as untreated controls. Postnatal development and behaviour was assessed on a wide-ranging battery of tests. Offspring of mothers subjected to restraint stress alone were significantly retarded on a number of developmental measures including growth, ear-opening, cliff avoidance response, auditory startle response and mid-air righting reflex. When adult these offspring also showed significantly impaired learning ability in a swimming maze. However, the rate of development and learning ability in the restraint plus diazepam or diazepam alone groups was comparable to or slightly advanced of that in untreated controls. It is concluded that concurrent administration of a low dose of the tranquiliser diazepam during restraint stress prevents the adverse postnatal effects of maternal restraint stress.", "PMID": 451931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9907", "title": "Lectin teratogenesis: defects produced by concanavalin A in fetal rabbits.", "content": "Concanavalin A (con A) is teratogenic to rabbit embryos during gestational days 12--15. Intracoelomic injections of 40 microliter con A solution (4 microgram/microliter) were performed on rabbit embryos during gestational days 10--15. Control embryos received either 40 microliter of saline, sham injection or no treatment. Con A caused increased fetal resorptions on days 10 and 11, but malformation levels did not differ from controls. On days 12--15, con A produced craniofacial, trunk and limb anomalies. The highest percentage of malformation occurred on day 14. The defects were classified into four groups: (1) malformations of limbs including paw and digital dysplasias as well as fusions of the limbs to the head or body wall; (2) \"closure\" defects such as umbilical hernia, encephalocoele, exencephaly or ectopia cordis; (3) \"contracture\" defects such as club paws, extended knees, or clenched digits, which exhibited normal osseous and cartilaginous skeletons; and (4) miscellaneous, non-specific anomalies including fused or dysplastic sternebrae or ribs. Histologic analysis of selected 12-day embryos 4 to 18 hours post-injection was performed to ascertain potential sites of teratogenic action. At 12 hours ectodermal necrosis was observed in the limb buds adjacent to the apical ectodermal ridge. By 18 hours, the ectoderm had eroded, exposing the basal lamina to the amniotic fluid. Focal areas of mesenchymal necrosis were observed in association with the ectodermal erosion. The potential roles of amniocentesis and limb bud repair in the genesis of the malformations are discussed.", "contents": "Lectin teratogenesis: defects produced by concanavalin A in fetal rabbits. Concanavalin A (con A) is teratogenic to rabbit embryos during gestational days 12--15. Intracoelomic injections of 40 microliter con A solution (4 microgram/microliter) were performed on rabbit embryos during gestational days 10--15. Control embryos received either 40 microliter of saline, sham injection or no treatment. Con A caused increased fetal resorptions on days 10 and 11, but malformation levels did not differ from controls. On days 12--15, con A produced craniofacial, trunk and limb anomalies. The highest percentage of malformation occurred on day 14. The defects were classified into four groups: (1) malformations of limbs including paw and digital dysplasias as well as fusions of the limbs to the head or body wall; (2) \"closure\" defects such as umbilical hernia, encephalocoele, exencephaly or ectopia cordis; (3) \"contracture\" defects such as club paws, extended knees, or clenched digits, which exhibited normal osseous and cartilaginous skeletons; and (4) miscellaneous, non-specific anomalies including fused or dysplastic sternebrae or ribs. Histologic analysis of selected 12-day embryos 4 to 18 hours post-injection was performed to ascertain potential sites of teratogenic action. At 12 hours ectodermal necrosis was observed in the limb buds adjacent to the apical ectodermal ridge. By 18 hours, the ectoderm had eroded, exposing the basal lamina to the amniotic fluid. Focal areas of mesenchymal necrosis were observed in association with the ectodermal erosion. The potential roles of amniocentesis and limb bud repair in the genesis of the malformations are discussed.", "PMID": 451934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9908", "title": "Tail anomaly lethal Tal: a new mutant gene in the rat.", "content": "A new hereditary tail anomaly (gene symbol Tal) in rats was found in the course of teratological studies with trypan blue. The characteristic feature of the tail anomaly was a short and kinked tail. The genetic analysis indicated that the tail anomaly was caused by an autosomal dominant gene and the homozygotes were lethal in the prenatal stage. The first sign of degeneration in the homozygous embryo appeared in the late egg cylinder stage. The phenotype of this mutant is similar to that of T-locus mutants in mice.", "contents": "Tail anomaly lethal Tal: a new mutant gene in the rat. A new hereditary tail anomaly (gene symbol Tal) in rats was found in the course of teratological studies with trypan blue. The characteristic feature of the tail anomaly was a short and kinked tail. The genetic analysis indicated that the tail anomaly was caused by an autosomal dominant gene and the homozygotes were lethal in the prenatal stage. The first sign of degeneration in the homozygous embryo appeared in the late egg cylinder stage. The phenotype of this mutant is similar to that of T-locus mutants in mice.", "PMID": 451935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9909", "title": "Folate antagonism following teratogenic exposure to diphenylhydantoin.", "content": "Previous studies have reported indirect evidence for the mediation of folate antagonism in the induction of malformations by diphenylhydantion. We have demonstrated that a teratogenic regimen of folate-deficiency and antagonism using 9-methyl PGA in the rat produces significantly decreased rates of oxygen consumption in the maldeveloping embryos. The present study reports similar reductions in oxygen uptake by mouse embryos from mothers treated with teratogenic doses of diphenylhydantoin, and documents a significant depression of the actual folate levels in such embryos. The differences are less significant with lower doses of diphenylhydantoin, and do not occur with a nonteratogenic dose.", "contents": "Folate antagonism following teratogenic exposure to diphenylhydantoin. Previous studies have reported indirect evidence for the mediation of folate antagonism in the induction of malformations by diphenylhydantion. We have demonstrated that a teratogenic regimen of folate-deficiency and antagonism using 9-methyl PGA in the rat produces significantly decreased rates of oxygen consumption in the maldeveloping embryos. The present study reports similar reductions in oxygen uptake by mouse embryos from mothers treated with teratogenic doses of diphenylhydantoin, and documents a significant depression of the actual folate levels in such embryos. The differences are less significant with lower doses of diphenylhydantoin, and do not occur with a nonteratogenic dose.", "PMID": 451936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9910", "title": "The effect of the time of administration of chromium trioxide on the embryotoxic response in hamsters.", "content": "Prior work has demonstrated that chromium trioxide is embryotoxic in hamsters if administered to pregnant animals early on the eighth gestation day. The major manifestations are cleft palate and an increased frequency of resorptions. In the present study a single iv dose (8 mg/kg) of chromium trioxide was injected into pregnant hamsters at 8 A.M. on either day 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11 of gestation in order to determine the effect of altering the time of treatment on embryotoxicity. Fetuses from females treated with chromium or demineralized-distilled water were collected on day 15 of gestation and were examined for the types and frequency of external and internal malformations. The number of resorption sites was recorded. Cleft palate, the major malformation detected, was produced only when chromium was administered on days 7, 8, or 9 of gestation. Since the frequency of resorptions and the incidence of cleft palate varied with the time of treatment it is concluded that the time at which chromium trioxide is injected into the pregnant hamster does influence embryotoxicity. The results suggest that an interference with embryonic growth may be an important factor in chromium-induced cleft palate in hamsters.", "contents": "The effect of the time of administration of chromium trioxide on the embryotoxic response in hamsters. Prior work has demonstrated that chromium trioxide is embryotoxic in hamsters if administered to pregnant animals early on the eighth gestation day. The major manifestations are cleft palate and an increased frequency of resorptions. In the present study a single iv dose (8 mg/kg) of chromium trioxide was injected into pregnant hamsters at 8 A.M. on either day 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11 of gestation in order to determine the effect of altering the time of treatment on embryotoxicity. Fetuses from females treated with chromium or demineralized-distilled water were collected on day 15 of gestation and were examined for the types and frequency of external and internal malformations. The number of resorption sites was recorded. Cleft palate, the major malformation detected, was produced only when chromium was administered on days 7, 8, or 9 of gestation. Since the frequency of resorptions and the incidence of cleft palate varied with the time of treatment it is concluded that the time at which chromium trioxide is injected into the pregnant hamster does influence embryotoxicity. The results suggest that an interference with embryonic growth may be an important factor in chromium-induced cleft palate in hamsters.", "PMID": 451937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9911", "title": "Campomelic syndrome--possible role of intrauterine viral infection.", "content": "Two infants whose malformations fulfilled the clinical, radiographic and pathologic criteria of campomelic syndrome, were additionally found to have features suggestive of intrauterine viral infection. The presence of hydrocephalus and hydromyelia in both neonates and focal proliferative villitis in the placenta of one suggests that intrauterine viral infection may play a role in the pathogenesis of campomelic syndrome.", "contents": "Campomelic syndrome--possible role of intrauterine viral infection. Two infants whose malformations fulfilled the clinical, radiographic and pathologic criteria of campomelic syndrome, were additionally found to have features suggestive of intrauterine viral infection. The presence of hydrocephalus and hydromyelia in both neonates and focal proliferative villitis in the placenta of one suggests that intrauterine viral infection may play a role in the pathogenesis of campomelic syndrome.", "PMID": 451939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9912", "title": "[Congenital tricuspid atresia in a premature foal (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of tricuspid atresia in a premature foal associated with large atrial septal and ventricular septal defects is reported. This anomaly is compared with other cases in horses as reported in the literature. As tricuspid atresia in horses is usually not diagnosed so that relatively few cases have been reported, a classification similar to that of human anomalies is not possible. It is suggested that the present malformation is due to abnormal development of the atrioventricular canal. The factors involved in the pathogenesis of this abnormal development are obscure.", "contents": "[Congenital tricuspid atresia in a premature foal (author's transl)]. A case of tricuspid atresia in a premature foal associated with large atrial septal and ventricular septal defects is reported. This anomaly is compared with other cases in horses as reported in the literature. As tricuspid atresia in horses is usually not diagnosed so that relatively few cases have been reported, a classification similar to that of human anomalies is not possible. It is suggested that the present malformation is due to abnormal development of the atrioventricular canal. The factors involved in the pathogenesis of this abnormal development are obscure.", "PMID": 451974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9913", "title": "[Renal failure caused by mercury and lead poisoning in the calf (author's transl)].", "content": "The renal lesions in three calves with mercury poisoning (phenylmercuric acetate) and two calves with lead poisoning are described. In addition of slight tubular degeneration, glomerulonephritis occurred in the animals with mercury poisoning. Moreover, uraemia, oedema and haemorrhages were present. Lesions of the brain not were found. In the animals with lead poisoning, chronic renal tubular changes and characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies in the proximal tubular cells were observed. The juxtamedullary glomeruli showed proliferative mesangial lesions. In one calf, the cerebral cortex showed oedema, necrosis of neurons and an increase in glial cells.", "contents": "[Renal failure caused by mercury and lead poisoning in the calf (author's transl)]. The renal lesions in three calves with mercury poisoning (phenylmercuric acetate) and two calves with lead poisoning are described. In addition of slight tubular degeneration, glomerulonephritis occurred in the animals with mercury poisoning. Moreover, uraemia, oedema and haemorrhages were present. Lesions of the brain not were found. In the animals with lead poisoning, chronic renal tubular changes and characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies in the proximal tubular cells were observed. The juxtamedullary glomeruli showed proliferative mesangial lesions. In one calf, the cerebral cortex showed oedema, necrosis of neurons and an increase in glial cells.", "PMID": 451975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9914", "title": "[Heritable defects in dogs (author's transl)].", "content": "The introduction to this report contains a description of the development of breeds of domestic animals. The change-over from natural to artificial selection gives rise to disturbances of morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. The origine, incidence and diagnosis of heritable defects in various canine breeds are discussed. On this basis two tables listing heritable defects in dogs are presented.", "contents": "[Heritable defects in dogs (author's transl)]. The introduction to this report contains a description of the development of breeds of domestic animals. The change-over from natural to artificial selection gives rise to disturbances of morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. The origine, incidence and diagnosis of heritable defects in various canine breeds are discussed. On this basis two tables listing heritable defects in dogs are presented.", "PMID": 451976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9915", "title": "Surgery of life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias associated with ventricular aneurysm.", "content": "In 11 patients with left ventricular aneurysm and ventricular tachyarrhythmia unresponsive to conventional antiarrhythmic therapy surgical treatment was performed by resection of the aneurysm. One patient underwent epicardial electrophysiological mapping intraoperatively, and the site of earliest activation during tachycardia was established. One patient did 11 hours postoperatively. Three patients are cured from their tachycardia 3 to 22 months after surgery. Six patients have still persistent premature ventricular beats which are now controlled satisfactorily with antiarrhythmic drugs. Our results demonstrate the therapeutic value of aneurysmectomy in the treatment of related ventricular tachyarrhythmias. The practical relevance of intraoperative electrophysiological mapping procedures for localizing the origin of ventricular tachyarrhythmias is a subject which merits further discussion.", "contents": "Surgery of life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias associated with ventricular aneurysm. In 11 patients with left ventricular aneurysm and ventricular tachyarrhythmia unresponsive to conventional antiarrhythmic therapy surgical treatment was performed by resection of the aneurysm. One patient underwent epicardial electrophysiological mapping intraoperatively, and the site of earliest activation during tachycardia was established. One patient did 11 hours postoperatively. Three patients are cured from their tachycardia 3 to 22 months after surgery. Six patients have still persistent premature ventricular beats which are now controlled satisfactorily with antiarrhythmic drugs. Our results demonstrate the therapeutic value of aneurysmectomy in the treatment of related ventricular tachyarrhythmias. The practical relevance of intraoperative electrophysiological mapping procedures for localizing the origin of ventricular tachyarrhythmias is a subject which merits further discussion.", "PMID": 451980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9916", "title": "Organization of a cardiovascular surgical unit: conclusions of an opinion survey among the members of the European Cardiac Surgeons Club (ECSC).", "content": "This paper summarizes the opinions of 20 representatives of well-known European centers for adult and pediatric thoracic and cardiovascular surgery regarding the optimal structure and organization of such units. These opinions were collected by means of a questionnaire, and the answers were discussed by the members of the group. Statistical analysis showed a high degree of concordance on the following subjects: The population to be covered by a given center, the relationship between cardiac surgery and cardiology, the minimal number of operations to be performed, the surgical, anaesthesiological and nursing staff, the equipment level required, the surgical training and research, and the cooperation with other centers, Partial concordance of opinions was reached in other aspects, while on some topics widely divergent views were stated, depending, in part, upon regional differences. This material is discussed in detail and we hope it will serve as a guide for the future development in this field both within and outside of Europe.", "contents": "Organization of a cardiovascular surgical unit: conclusions of an opinion survey among the members of the European Cardiac Surgeons Club (ECSC). This paper summarizes the opinions of 20 representatives of well-known European centers for adult and pediatric thoracic and cardiovascular surgery regarding the optimal structure and organization of such units. These opinions were collected by means of a questionnaire, and the answers were discussed by the members of the group. Statistical analysis showed a high degree of concordance on the following subjects: The population to be covered by a given center, the relationship between cardiac surgery and cardiology, the minimal number of operations to be performed, the surgical, anaesthesiological and nursing staff, the equipment level required, the surgical training and research, and the cooperation with other centers, Partial concordance of opinions was reached in other aspects, while on some topics widely divergent views were stated, depending, in part, upon regional differences. This material is discussed in detail and we hope it will serve as a guide for the future development in this field both within and outside of Europe.", "PMID": 451982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9917", "title": "Cardiac valve replacement. Problems solved and unsolved.", "content": "In this review the present state of cardiac valve replacement is summarized on the basis of the literature and personal experience in approximately 1500 cases, using various prosthetic models. Durability, hemodynamic performance at rest and during exercise, and thromboembolic risk are considered in particular and our choice of the various valve models is discussed on these grounds. The long-term durability has been significantly improved and has possibly been solved in the more advanced mechanical valves, while this question is still open in the present biological prostheses. Hemodynamic performance is considered less than optimal in all conventional mechanical prostheses and in the xenografts. Pressure gradients are abnormal in all mechanical as well as in stented biological prostheses, the latter being less likely to solve the problem of a narrow aortic root. The significantly lower incidence of thromboembolism and total valve thrombosis and the absence of anticoagulation accidents in patients with bioprostheses has tipped the balance for the present in favor of the latter, particularly in mitral valve replacement and certainly in all those patients in whom anticoagulation in impossible, unlikely, or undesirable.", "contents": "Cardiac valve replacement. Problems solved and unsolved. In this review the present state of cardiac valve replacement is summarized on the basis of the literature and personal experience in approximately 1500 cases, using various prosthetic models. Durability, hemodynamic performance at rest and during exercise, and thromboembolic risk are considered in particular and our choice of the various valve models is discussed on these grounds. The long-term durability has been significantly improved and has possibly been solved in the more advanced mechanical valves, while this question is still open in the present biological prostheses. Hemodynamic performance is considered less than optimal in all conventional mechanical prostheses and in the xenografts. Pressure gradients are abnormal in all mechanical as well as in stented biological prostheses, the latter being less likely to solve the problem of a narrow aortic root. The significantly lower incidence of thromboembolism and total valve thrombosis and the absence of anticoagulation accidents in patients with bioprostheses has tipped the balance for the present in favor of the latter, particularly in mitral valve replacement and certainly in all those patients in whom anticoagulation in impossible, unlikely, or undesirable.", "PMID": 451983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9918", "title": "Primary results with the new Hall-Kaster disc valve prosthesis in mitral position.", "content": "The Hall-Kaster central flow prosthetic heart valve was introduced in 1977 in an attempt to improve the hemodynamics of the disc valve prostheses. Towards this accomplishment, innovations in the tilting axis, the disc guidance mechanisms, and disc translational freedom cooperate to improve flow through both orifice segments of the open valve. The present study reports on the primary clinical and hemodynamic findings in the first 20 patients (mean age 57.6 years) with isolated mitral valvular disease, examined 3--4 months after insertion of the Hall-Kaster disc valve prosthesis. The hemodynamic findings displayed low gradients and high calculated valve areas (5). At rest, the mean diastolic pressure gradient across the smallest prosthesis used (O.D. 27) averaged 3.0 mmHg, vs. 2.6 mmHg across the largest valve sizes (O.D. 29--31). Calculated valve area was on an average 3.08 cm2 for the smaller valve, and 3.47 cm2 for the larger valves, which corresponded to an utilization of 81% and 77% of the orifice area measured in vitro. A comparison with earlier studies of mean diastolic mitral gradients with different mitral prostheses indicates that the Hall-Kaster disc valve represents an improvement towards a hemodynamically more efficient prosthesis for mitral valve replacement.", "contents": "Primary results with the new Hall-Kaster disc valve prosthesis in mitral position. The Hall-Kaster central flow prosthetic heart valve was introduced in 1977 in an attempt to improve the hemodynamics of the disc valve prostheses. Towards this accomplishment, innovations in the tilting axis, the disc guidance mechanisms, and disc translational freedom cooperate to improve flow through both orifice segments of the open valve. The present study reports on the primary clinical and hemodynamic findings in the first 20 patients (mean age 57.6 years) with isolated mitral valvular disease, examined 3--4 months after insertion of the Hall-Kaster disc valve prosthesis. The hemodynamic findings displayed low gradients and high calculated valve areas (5). At rest, the mean diastolic pressure gradient across the smallest prosthesis used (O.D. 27) averaged 3.0 mmHg, vs. 2.6 mmHg across the largest valve sizes (O.D. 29--31). Calculated valve area was on an average 3.08 cm2 for the smaller valve, and 3.47 cm2 for the larger valves, which corresponded to an utilization of 81% and 77% of the orifice area measured in vitro. A comparison with earlier studies of mean diastolic mitral gradients with different mitral prostheses indicates that the Hall-Kaster disc valve represents an improvement towards a hemodynamically more efficient prosthesis for mitral valve replacement.", "PMID": 451984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9919", "title": "Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamic studies in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with the Hall-Kaster cardiac disc valve prosthesis.", "content": "Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamic measurements in the first patients to receive the Hall-Kaster cardiac disc valve prosthesis in the aortic position demonstrated the principal hemodynamic pattern of this new mechanical valve. These hemodynamic studies demonstrated favourable transvalvular gradient values and a degree of flow area utilization of the valve orifice which was close to its theoretical maximum. The Hall-Kaster prosthesis thus presented improved flow characteristics in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement, which is considered of particular importance to the patients with a narrow aortic root.", "contents": "Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamic studies in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with the Hall-Kaster cardiac disc valve prosthesis. Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamic measurements in the first patients to receive the Hall-Kaster cardiac disc valve prosthesis in the aortic position demonstrated the principal hemodynamic pattern of this new mechanical valve. These hemodynamic studies demonstrated favourable transvalvular gradient values and a degree of flow area utilization of the valve orifice which was close to its theoretical maximum. The Hall-Kaster prosthesis thus presented improved flow characteristics in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement, which is considered of particular importance to the patients with a narrow aortic root.", "PMID": 451985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9920", "title": "Regional myocardial blood flow after hypothermic arrest and cardioplegia.", "content": "Malperfusion due to increased coronary vascular resistance is presumably one of the factors responsible for incomplete functional recovery of the heart after aortic cross-clamping. Myocaridal blood flow (MBF, radioactive microspheres) was measured before and after 60 min of hypothermic ischemia in 16 dogs on cardiopulmonary bypass. After ischemia the hearts were reperfused for 30 min. MBF was measured in the empty beating heart and in the isovolumetrically contracting ventricle loaded with enddiastolic volumes (EDV) of 10, 20 and 30 ml (intraventricular latex balloon).", "contents": "Regional myocardial blood flow after hypothermic arrest and cardioplegia. Malperfusion due to increased coronary vascular resistance is presumably one of the factors responsible for incomplete functional recovery of the heart after aortic cross-clamping. Myocaridal blood flow (MBF, radioactive microspheres) was measured before and after 60 min of hypothermic ischemia in 16 dogs on cardiopulmonary bypass. After ischemia the hearts were reperfused for 30 min. MBF was measured in the empty beating heart and in the isovolumetrically contracting ventricle loaded with enddiastolic volumes (EDV) of 10, 20 and 30 ml (intraventricular latex balloon).", "PMID": 451986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9921", "title": "Intramembranous particles in the form of ridges, bracelets or assemblies in arthropod tissues.", "content": "Non-junctional intramembranous particle arrays in the form of ridges, bracelets or rectilinear assemblies have been found by freeze-fracturing in the cytoplasmic half or P face of the plasma membrane in a variety of arthropod tissues. These tissues include both excitable cells, nerve and muscle, and such other cells as those from the intestinal tract, the tracheal system and the connective tissue. The intramembranous ridges are short rows of fused particles about 10 nm in diameter; comparable particles comprise the bracelets and the rectilinear aggregates, although the former are of lower profile. In cells sending out cytoplasmic projections during migration and development, for example, axons in embryonic, newly hatched or pupal tissues, tracheoles or fibroblasts, the intramembranous ridges are always aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cellular process. The physiological significance of these may be that they play some role in recognition during development, perhaps by contact guidance. The ridges and rectilinear arrays found in the gut could also be involved in recognition and/or adhesion. In muscle, bead-like ridges are intimately associated with the transverse tubular system and may have a receptor function. Irregular and circular low-profile ridges occur in the tissues of the horseshoe crab, Limulus, and 'bracelet' forms are found in the inner membrane of insect pupal tracheae. The latter may play a part in the initiation and development of small tracheoles.", "contents": "Intramembranous particles in the form of ridges, bracelets or assemblies in arthropod tissues. Non-junctional intramembranous particle arrays in the form of ridges, bracelets or rectilinear assemblies have been found by freeze-fracturing in the cytoplasmic half or P face of the plasma membrane in a variety of arthropod tissues. These tissues include both excitable cells, nerve and muscle, and such other cells as those from the intestinal tract, the tracheal system and the connective tissue. The intramembranous ridges are short rows of fused particles about 10 nm in diameter; comparable particles comprise the bracelets and the rectilinear aggregates, although the former are of lower profile. In cells sending out cytoplasmic projections during migration and development, for example, axons in embryonic, newly hatched or pupal tissues, tracheoles or fibroblasts, the intramembranous ridges are always aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cellular process. The physiological significance of these may be that they play some role in recognition during development, perhaps by contact guidance. The ridges and rectilinear arrays found in the gut could also be involved in recognition and/or adhesion. In muscle, bead-like ridges are intimately associated with the transverse tubular system and may have a receptor function. Irregular and circular low-profile ridges occur in the tissues of the horseshoe crab, Limulus, and 'bracelet' forms are found in the inner membrane of insect pupal tracheae. The latter may play a part in the initiation and development of small tracheoles.", "PMID": 451987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9922", "title": "Innervation of the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath of the spleen.", "content": "During the course of a neurohistochemical and two independent electron microscopic studies of the mouse spleen, unmyelinated adrenergic nerves containing numerous dense core and lucent vesicles and devoid of neurolemma were observed adjacent to reticular cells and lymphocytes in the white pulp. Some of these nerves formed an intimate relationship with these cells. Since adrenergic substances have been reported to modulate the cell cycle of lymphocytes in vitro, these findings are suggestive of a neural influence on the cell cycle of lymphocytes in vivo.", "contents": "Innervation of the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath of the spleen. During the course of a neurohistochemical and two independent electron microscopic studies of the mouse spleen, unmyelinated adrenergic nerves containing numerous dense core and lucent vesicles and devoid of neurolemma were observed adjacent to reticular cells and lymphocytes in the white pulp. Some of these nerves formed an intimate relationship with these cells. Since adrenergic substances have been reported to modulate the cell cycle of lymphocytes in vitro, these findings are suggestive of a neural influence on the cell cycle of lymphocytes in vivo.", "PMID": 451988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9923", "title": "Calcium containing lysosomes in the normal chick duodenum: a histochemical and analytical electron microscopic study.", "content": "Absorptive cells of the normal chick duodenum contain numerous supranuclear vesicular/vacuolar structures. By routine transmission electron microscopy, such structures are membrane bound and demonstrate a granular content. These vesicles appear to move laterally and eventually coalesce with the lateral plasma membrane (exocytosis). The granular contents are resistant to high temperature microincineration, thus revealing their mineral-containing nature. The granular vesicular matrix also stains intensely with osmium pyroantimonate EGTA chelation of pyroantimonate-stained vesicles selectively extracts the granules indicating a high concentration of calcium. X-ray microanalysis also demonstrates a significant intravesicular calcium localization. When tissues were incubated for the presence of acid phosphatase, the supranuclear vesicles were markedly positive for this lysosomal enzyme. A possible role for these calcium-containing lysosomes in the transcellular flux of calcium ions across the intestinal absorptive cell is discussed.", "contents": "Calcium containing lysosomes in the normal chick duodenum: a histochemical and analytical electron microscopic study. Absorptive cells of the normal chick duodenum contain numerous supranuclear vesicular/vacuolar structures. By routine transmission electron microscopy, such structures are membrane bound and demonstrate a granular content. These vesicles appear to move laterally and eventually coalesce with the lateral plasma membrane (exocytosis). The granular contents are resistant to high temperature microincineration, thus revealing their mineral-containing nature. The granular vesicular matrix also stains intensely with osmium pyroantimonate EGTA chelation of pyroantimonate-stained vesicles selectively extracts the granules indicating a high concentration of calcium. X-ray microanalysis also demonstrates a significant intravesicular calcium localization. When tissues were incubated for the presence of acid phosphatase, the supranuclear vesicles were markedly positive for this lysosomal enzyme. A possible role for these calcium-containing lysosomes in the transcellular flux of calcium ions across the intestinal absorptive cell is discussed.", "PMID": 451989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9924", "title": "Annulate lamellae in human tumor cells.", "content": "Annulate lamellae have been found in a primitive neuroectodermal tumor, a metastatic cerebellar tumor, a testicular seminoma, a retinoblastoma and three melanomas. These annulate lamellae are arranged in stacked parallel arrays in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. The number of annulate lamellae observed to comprise a single stack varies from 2--4 in the seminoma tumor to 5--18 in the cerebellar tumor. Although the functional significance of annulate lamallae is still unknown, in many instances they have been found to be continuous with rough-surfaced cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes have been demonstrated on the surface of annulate lamellae. This may suggest that annulate lamellae participate in protein synthesis.", "contents": "Annulate lamellae in human tumor cells. Annulate lamellae have been found in a primitive neuroectodermal tumor, a metastatic cerebellar tumor, a testicular seminoma, a retinoblastoma and three melanomas. These annulate lamellae are arranged in stacked parallel arrays in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. The number of annulate lamellae observed to comprise a single stack varies from 2--4 in the seminoma tumor to 5--18 in the cerebellar tumor. Although the functional significance of annulate lamallae is still unknown, in many instances they have been found to be continuous with rough-surfaced cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes have been demonstrated on the surface of annulate lamellae. This may suggest that annulate lamellae participate in protein synthesis.", "PMID": 451990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9925", "title": "Changes in distribution of nuclear pores during differentiation of the male germ cells.", "content": "Changes in number of nuclear pores in different states of physiologica activity have been reported, but little is known about changing patterns of distribution in the course of cell differentiation. Pore distribution in male germ cells was studied in freeze fracture preparations of immature and mature rodent testis. As in other somatic cells, pores were uniformly and apparently randomly distributed in Sertoli cell nuclei. The nucleus of gonocytes and spermatogonia showed varying degrees of pore clustering. Spermatocytes invariably exhibited very striking pore aggregation with close hexagonal packing in pore-rich areas, and large pore-free areas. In early spermatids, pores appeared to be randomly distributed. As the acrosome formed and spread over the apical pole of the nucleus, pores disappeared ahead of its advancing margin and became more concentrated in the post-acrosomal region. The relationship of pore complexes to the chromosomes and the role of the fibrous lamina are discussed. The question as to whether the changing patterns observed involve movement of pores within fluid nuclear membranes, or a dissolution and reformation of new pores remains unanswered.", "contents": "Changes in distribution of nuclear pores during differentiation of the male germ cells. Changes in number of nuclear pores in different states of physiologica activity have been reported, but little is known about changing patterns of distribution in the course of cell differentiation. Pore distribution in male germ cells was studied in freeze fracture preparations of immature and mature rodent testis. As in other somatic cells, pores were uniformly and apparently randomly distributed in Sertoli cell nuclei. The nucleus of gonocytes and spermatogonia showed varying degrees of pore clustering. Spermatocytes invariably exhibited very striking pore aggregation with close hexagonal packing in pore-rich areas, and large pore-free areas. In early spermatids, pores appeared to be randomly distributed. As the acrosome formed and spread over the apical pole of the nucleus, pores disappeared ahead of its advancing margin and became more concentrated in the post-acrosomal region. The relationship of pore complexes to the chromosomes and the role of the fibrous lamina are discussed. The question as to whether the changing patterns observed involve movement of pores within fluid nuclear membranes, or a dissolution and reformation of new pores remains unanswered.", "PMID": 451991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9926", "title": "The brain of the horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus). III. Cellular and synaptic organization of the corpora pedunculata.", "content": "The large, hemispherical mass of the Limulus corpora pedunculata consists of two highly branched lobes, each connected to the protocerebrum by a narrow stalk. About 10(4) afferent fibers enter through the stalks and make diverse, profuse, and often reciprocal contacts with several million Kenyon (intrinsic) cells and one another. The Kenyon cell axonal arborizations converge on a few hundred efferent dendrites. The afferent fiber types can be classified into five types. Type A forms the club-shaped core of glomeruli and circumglomerular annuli, and contains small flat vesicles, suggesting an inhibitory function. Type B terminates with bushy endings in glomeruli and is presynaptic to both Kenyon cells and to Type A terminals. It has clear round vesicles and is the presumptive excitatory input. Type C terminates on other afferents, in glomeruli, and rarely on Kenyon cell bodies, contains angular (neurosecretory) granules and is postulated to impart circadian rhythm. Type D terminates on Kenyon cell somata and the initial neurite segment (but not in glomeruli), and contains dense-cored vesicles. Type E terminates in peduncles on other afferents and Kenyon cell telodendria. It contains dense vesicles. The C, D, and E afferents have reciprocal synaptic connections with Kenyon cell axon terminals. Glomeruli thus receive three different inputs of presumptive inhibitory (A), excitatory (B), and neuromodulatory nature (C). Kenyon cells, increasing in number up to about 1 x 10(8) in the adult, show minor variations in their dendritic pattern and have only one rare variant cell type. Interactions between them occur primarily at their axonal boutons as they crowd around efferent fibers. The latter have large receptive fields, some of their large somata are located within the confines of the corpora pedunculata, and they receive input almost only from Kenyon cells. Numerical and directional details of the circuitry in the corpora pedunculata have been extracted by a combination of light and electron microscopy, serial sectioning, silver staining, and stereology. The corpora pedunculata appear to process primarily the voluminous chemosensory input from the appendages, an assumption that is supported by the major connections of the organ.", "contents": "The brain of the horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus). III. Cellular and synaptic organization of the corpora pedunculata. The large, hemispherical mass of the Limulus corpora pedunculata consists of two highly branched lobes, each connected to the protocerebrum by a narrow stalk. About 10(4) afferent fibers enter through the stalks and make diverse, profuse, and often reciprocal contacts with several million Kenyon (intrinsic) cells and one another. The Kenyon cell axonal arborizations converge on a few hundred efferent dendrites. The afferent fiber types can be classified into five types. Type A forms the club-shaped core of glomeruli and circumglomerular annuli, and contains small flat vesicles, suggesting an inhibitory function. Type B terminates with bushy endings in glomeruli and is presynaptic to both Kenyon cells and to Type A terminals. It has clear round vesicles and is the presumptive excitatory input. Type C terminates on other afferents, in glomeruli, and rarely on Kenyon cell bodies, contains angular (neurosecretory) granules and is postulated to impart circadian rhythm. Type D terminates on Kenyon cell somata and the initial neurite segment (but not in glomeruli), and contains dense-cored vesicles. Type E terminates in peduncles on other afferents and Kenyon cell telodendria. It contains dense vesicles. The C, D, and E afferents have reciprocal synaptic connections with Kenyon cell axon terminals. Glomeruli thus receive three different inputs of presumptive inhibitory (A), excitatory (B), and neuromodulatory nature (C). Kenyon cells, increasing in number up to about 1 x 10(8) in the adult, show minor variations in their dendritic pattern and have only one rare variant cell type. Interactions between them occur primarily at their axonal boutons as they crowd around efferent fibers. The latter have large receptive fields, some of their large somata are located within the confines of the corpora pedunculata, and they receive input almost only from Kenyon cells. Numerical and directional details of the circuitry in the corpora pedunculata have been extracted by a combination of light and electron microscopy, serial sectioning, silver staining, and stereology. The corpora pedunculata appear to process primarily the voluminous chemosensory input from the appendages, an assumption that is supported by the major connections of the organ.", "PMID": 451992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9927", "title": "The fine structural effect of sialectomy on the taste bud cells in the rat.", "content": "Taste buds in the rat and other mammals share a secretory activity with their transduction function as taste receptor. The present work shows the effect of bilateral removal of the main salivary glands on taste bud cells' components related to secretion in the vallate papilla of the rat. In the sialectomized rats remarkable changes were evidence in the dark and intermediate types of taste bud cells, which are known to be the secretory components. Such changes involve hypertrophy of either the protein synthetizing machinery, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum or the Golgi complex. Lucent and coated vesicles associated to Golgi cisternae increased in number but the amount of dense-core vesicles (secretory vesicles) at the apical cytoplasm of cells decreased. Images of exocytosis of secretory products were observed. The hypertrophy of Golgi complex components was clearly detected with the OsO4 impregnation method for light and electron microscopy. Alteration in the acid phosphatase activity of taste bud cells was not observed in the sialectomized rats. These findings suggest that sialectomy stimulates the entire secretory cycle of dark and intermediate taste bud cells. The light taste bud cells, which are not engaged in secretion, are hardly affected by the treatment. Although taste buds in mammals are neuro-dependent structures, present evidence indicates that they are also sensitive to non-neural influences.", "contents": "The fine structural effect of sialectomy on the taste bud cells in the rat. Taste buds in the rat and other mammals share a secretory activity with their transduction function as taste receptor. The present work shows the effect of bilateral removal of the main salivary glands on taste bud cells' components related to secretion in the vallate papilla of the rat. In the sialectomized rats remarkable changes were evidence in the dark and intermediate types of taste bud cells, which are known to be the secretory components. Such changes involve hypertrophy of either the protein synthetizing machinery, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum or the Golgi complex. Lucent and coated vesicles associated to Golgi cisternae increased in number but the amount of dense-core vesicles (secretory vesicles) at the apical cytoplasm of cells decreased. Images of exocytosis of secretory products were observed. The hypertrophy of Golgi complex components was clearly detected with the OsO4 impregnation method for light and electron microscopy. Alteration in the acid phosphatase activity of taste bud cells was not observed in the sialectomized rats. These findings suggest that sialectomy stimulates the entire secretory cycle of dark and intermediate taste bud cells. The light taste bud cells, which are not engaged in secretion, are hardly affected by the treatment. Although taste buds in mammals are neuro-dependent structures, present evidence indicates that they are also sensitive to non-neural influences.", "PMID": 451993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9928", "title": "An ultrastructural analysis of the salivary system of the terrestrial mollusc, Limax maximus.", "content": "The bilateral salivary glands, ducts, and nerves of the giant garden slug Limax maximus control the secretion of saliva and its transport to the buccal mass. Each salivary nerve, which originates at the buccal ganglion, contains over 3000 axon profiles. The axons innervate the musculature of the duct and branch within the gland. The salivary duct is composed of several muscular layers surrounding an epithelial layer which lines the duct lumen. The morphology of the duct epithelium indicates that it may function in ion or water balance. The salivary gland contains four major types of secretory cells. The secretory products are released from vacuoles in the gland cells, and are presumably transported by cilia in the collecting ducts of the gland into the larger muscular ducts.", "contents": "An ultrastructural analysis of the salivary system of the terrestrial mollusc, Limax maximus. The bilateral salivary glands, ducts, and nerves of the giant garden slug Limax maximus control the secretion of saliva and its transport to the buccal mass. Each salivary nerve, which originates at the buccal ganglion, contains over 3000 axon profiles. The axons innervate the musculature of the duct and branch within the gland. The salivary duct is composed of several muscular layers surrounding an epithelial layer which lines the duct lumen. The morphology of the duct epithelium indicates that it may function in ion or water balance. The salivary gland contains four major types of secretory cells. The secretory products are released from vacuoles in the gland cells, and are presumably transported by cilia in the collecting ducts of the gland into the larger muscular ducts.", "PMID": 451994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9929", "title": "The structure and compositon of the love dart (gypsobelum) in Helix pomatia.", "content": "The love dart of the snail Helix pomatia is a four-bladed, hollow spicule of calcium carbonate. The calcium carbonate is largely in the form of microcrystalline aragonite, the crystals being not more than 0.5 micrometer in size but assembled into sheets or blocks of much greater size. Protein occurs in the dart structure as an external sheath, as a lining to the tubular core and as a matrix component of the mineral phase. Comparisons with the molluscan shell are drawn and a rationale for the architecture suggested.", "contents": "The structure and compositon of the love dart (gypsobelum) in Helix pomatia. The love dart of the snail Helix pomatia is a four-bladed, hollow spicule of calcium carbonate. The calcium carbonate is largely in the form of microcrystalline aragonite, the crystals being not more than 0.5 micrometer in size but assembled into sheets or blocks of much greater size. Protein occurs in the dart structure as an external sheath, as a lining to the tubular core and as a matrix component of the mineral phase. Comparisons with the molluscan shell are drawn and a rationale for the architecture suggested.", "PMID": 451995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9930", "title": "Unusual association of 'chloride cells' with another cell type in the skin of the glass catfish, Kryptopterus bicirrhis.", "content": "A previously undescribed association of typical 'chloride cells' and a second distinct cell type are observed in the skin of the freshwater glass catfish, Kryptopterus bicirrhis. The second cell type is similar to the chloride cell in that it contains abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. However, its small size and greater electron density suggest it is a 'resting' or non-functional chloride cell. Together these two cells form a crypt which leads to the skin surface. They may constitute a specialized structure involved in the passage of ions across the skin of these fish.", "contents": "Unusual association of 'chloride cells' with another cell type in the skin of the glass catfish, Kryptopterus bicirrhis. A previously undescribed association of typical 'chloride cells' and a second distinct cell type are observed in the skin of the freshwater glass catfish, Kryptopterus bicirrhis. The second cell type is similar to the chloride cell in that it contains abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. However, its small size and greater electron density suggest it is a 'resting' or non-functional chloride cell. Together these two cells form a crypt which leads to the skin surface. They may constitute a specialized structure involved in the passage of ions across the skin of these fish.", "PMID": 451996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9931", "title": "Secretory activities of plasmatocytes and oenocytoids during the moulting cycle in an insect (Rhodnius).", "content": "Plasmatocytes in Rhodnius appear to be the chief source of the basement membrane (basal lamina) of the abdominal epidermis. The membrane increases three-fold in thickness while the cells are applied to its surface, from 4 to 9 days after feeding. At this time irregular deposits of membrane substance appear, applied to the membrane in the vicinity of plasmatocytes. Many small vesicles perhaps undergoing exocytosis are seen at the surface of the plasmatocytes in contact with the basement membrane (basal limina). The large granular inclusions of the plasmatocytes are dispersed and their contents appear to provide the substance of the basement membrane, which has the same staining properties as these inclusions.", "contents": "Secretory activities of plasmatocytes and oenocytoids during the moulting cycle in an insect (Rhodnius). Plasmatocytes in Rhodnius appear to be the chief source of the basement membrane (basal lamina) of the abdominal epidermis. The membrane increases three-fold in thickness while the cells are applied to its surface, from 4 to 9 days after feeding. At this time irregular deposits of membrane substance appear, applied to the membrane in the vicinity of plasmatocytes. Many small vesicles perhaps undergoing exocytosis are seen at the surface of the plasmatocytes in contact with the basement membrane (basal limina). The large granular inclusions of the plasmatocytes are dispersed and their contents appear to provide the substance of the basement membrane, which has the same staining properties as these inclusions.", "PMID": 451997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9932", "title": "Ultrastructural characteristics of Hydrilla leaf tissue.", "content": "The general anatomy and leaf ultrastructure of Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle, a submersed vascular hydrophyte, are reported. The transversely sectioned leaf consists of only two contiguous epidermal layers, and the single midvein is composed of three to four concentric layers of cells. There are numerous intercellular spaces throughout the tissue. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of sieve elements in the mid-vein area. P-protein, plastid inclusions and branched plasmodesmata leading into the companion cells are all considered indicative of phloem-type cells. Plastid inclusions are cuneate and lack associated starch granules, characteristics typical of monocots. The outer wall of the lower epidermis protrudes into the cell. Plant cells with wall ingrowths are termed 'transfer cells' and, in aquatics, function in the absorption of solutes from the external environment. In addition to the lower epidermis, spiny projections of the leaf margin could be included in this category. There is a thick fibrous layer which appears to be part of the outer wall of the upper epidermis. Secretory vesicles containing polysaccharide empty into this layer and into the wall. Cell nuclei are distinctly polymorphic. The granal arrangement, presence or absence of starch and peripheral reticulum in chloroplasts varies.", "contents": "Ultrastructural characteristics of Hydrilla leaf tissue. The general anatomy and leaf ultrastructure of Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle, a submersed vascular hydrophyte, are reported. The transversely sectioned leaf consists of only two contiguous epidermal layers, and the single midvein is composed of three to four concentric layers of cells. There are numerous intercellular spaces throughout the tissue. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of sieve elements in the mid-vein area. P-protein, plastid inclusions and branched plasmodesmata leading into the companion cells are all considered indicative of phloem-type cells. Plastid inclusions are cuneate and lack associated starch granules, characteristics typical of monocots. The outer wall of the lower epidermis protrudes into the cell. Plant cells with wall ingrowths are termed 'transfer cells' and, in aquatics, function in the absorption of solutes from the external environment. In addition to the lower epidermis, spiny projections of the leaf margin could be included in this category. There is a thick fibrous layer which appears to be part of the outer wall of the upper epidermis. Secretory vesicles containing polysaccharide empty into this layer and into the wall. Cell nuclei are distinctly polymorphic. The granal arrangement, presence or absence of starch and peripheral reticulum in chloroplasts varies.", "PMID": 451998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9933", "title": "Differential response of embryonic cells to culture on tissue matrices.", "content": "Cell responses to different natural substrates have been followed by scanning microscopy in order to evaluate the role of these substrates in morphogenesis. Matrix has been isolated then repopulated with suspensions of embryonic cells from chick skin, spinal ganglia, duodenal epithelium and heart. In some cases outgrowth from amphibian embryonic tissue was used. Basal lamina of the Xenopus tail may be exposed by freezing and thawing the tissue, or by EDTA treatment. The underlying lamella of orthogonally oriented collagen fibers may be exposed by use of trypsin or hyaluronidase. Trypsin causes more clumping of collagen fibers and a coarser texture of the matrix. On trypsin isolated basement lamella, nerve cell processes grow out on the surface and show no strong tendency to penetrate the lamella while skin mesenchymal cells commonly burrow among the collagen plies. Epithelial cells remain on the surface. On the basal lamina mesenchymal cells ruffle in early stages of culture, then flatten. Epithelial cells flatten rapidly on the lamina. These differences in cell response are in some cases closely related to cell behavior in vivo and suggest that cells show a selective response to the chemical composition of the substrate as well as to its physical conformation.", "contents": "Differential response of embryonic cells to culture on tissue matrices. Cell responses to different natural substrates have been followed by scanning microscopy in order to evaluate the role of these substrates in morphogenesis. Matrix has been isolated then repopulated with suspensions of embryonic cells from chick skin, spinal ganglia, duodenal epithelium and heart. In some cases outgrowth from amphibian embryonic tissue was used. Basal lamina of the Xenopus tail may be exposed by freezing and thawing the tissue, or by EDTA treatment. The underlying lamella of orthogonally oriented collagen fibers may be exposed by use of trypsin or hyaluronidase. Trypsin causes more clumping of collagen fibers and a coarser texture of the matrix. On trypsin isolated basement lamella, nerve cell processes grow out on the surface and show no strong tendency to penetrate the lamella while skin mesenchymal cells commonly burrow among the collagen plies. Epithelial cells remain on the surface. On the basal lamina mesenchymal cells ruffle in early stages of culture, then flatten. Epithelial cells flatten rapidly on the lamina. These differences in cell response are in some cases closely related to cell behavior in vivo and suggest that cells show a selective response to the chemical composition of the substrate as well as to its physical conformation.", "PMID": 451999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9934", "title": "The effect of fibrin on cultured vascular endothelial cells.", "content": "The normal cobblestone monolayer architecture of cultured vascular endothelium becomes rapidly disorganized after contact of the cell layer with a fibrin clot. The cells of a confluent endothelial monolayer separate into individual migratory cells in 4--6 hr after contact with fibrin. The effect is reversible in that removal of the fibrin clot results in resumption of the normal morphology within about 2 hr. No other cell type tested exhibits the same change in organization when exposed to fibrin. A similar morphological change in endothelium does occur after the cell layer is overlaid with a collagen fibril gel but a gel of methylcellulose has no effect. It is proposed that the change in behavior of endothelial cells in response to contact with fibrin may represent a cellular component of fibrinolysis. The implications of this finding for the pathophysiology of disease states involving intravascular fibrin deposition are discussed.", "contents": "The effect of fibrin on cultured vascular endothelial cells. The normal cobblestone monolayer architecture of cultured vascular endothelium becomes rapidly disorganized after contact of the cell layer with a fibrin clot. The cells of a confluent endothelial monolayer separate into individual migratory cells in 4--6 hr after contact with fibrin. The effect is reversible in that removal of the fibrin clot results in resumption of the normal morphology within about 2 hr. No other cell type tested exhibits the same change in organization when exposed to fibrin. A similar morphological change in endothelium does occur after the cell layer is overlaid with a collagen fibril gel but a gel of methylcellulose has no effect. It is proposed that the change in behavior of endothelial cells in response to contact with fibrin may represent a cellular component of fibrinolysis. The implications of this finding for the pathophysiology of disease states involving intravascular fibrin deposition are discussed.", "PMID": 452000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9935", "title": "Influence of the skin temperature on the axon reflex pilomotion produced by nicotine in human skin.", "content": "Intradermal injection of nicotine dissolved in normal saline in a concentration of 10(-5)g/ml produced axon reflex pilomotion, which was observed as goose flesh on the flexor surface of the forearm in human. The skin temperature was changed by immersing the forearm in a water bath at 22 to 45 degrees C. When the skin temperature was neutral as 32.5 degrees C, goose flesh appeared at about 5 sec and reached its maximal spread at about 25 sec, then it became smaller and disappeared at 1 min 30 sec. When the skin temperature was lower, its onset was delayed and its duration was longer. At higher temperature, time course of goose flesh was shortened. With a device of controlling temperature of receptor and effector portion independently, it was found that enhancement of goose flesh at lower temperature was due to a nature of the effector and the responsiveness of the receptor to nicotine was constant in a range from 20 to 40 degrees C. Reaction of the receptor to temperature was pharmacologically similar to that of autonomic ganglion.", "contents": "Influence of the skin temperature on the axon reflex pilomotion produced by nicotine in human skin. Intradermal injection of nicotine dissolved in normal saline in a concentration of 10(-5)g/ml produced axon reflex pilomotion, which was observed as goose flesh on the flexor surface of the forearm in human. The skin temperature was changed by immersing the forearm in a water bath at 22 to 45 degrees C. When the skin temperature was neutral as 32.5 degrees C, goose flesh appeared at about 5 sec and reached its maximal spread at about 25 sec, then it became smaller and disappeared at 1 min 30 sec. When the skin temperature was lower, its onset was delayed and its duration was longer. At higher temperature, time course of goose flesh was shortened. With a device of controlling temperature of receptor and effector portion independently, it was found that enhancement of goose flesh at lower temperature was due to a nature of the effector and the responsiveness of the receptor to nicotine was constant in a range from 20 to 40 degrees C. Reaction of the receptor to temperature was pharmacologically similar to that of autonomic ganglion.", "PMID": 452001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9936", "title": "Change in plasma renin activity by cold storage of plasma in normal subjects and patients with essential hypertension and primary aldosteronism.", "content": "The time courses of change in renin activity after cold storage of human plasma at -5 degrees C and pH 7.4 were examined in 5 normal subjects, 6 patients with essential hypertension and one female patient with primary aldosteronism before and after extirpation of the adrenal tumor. In the 5 normal subjects and 6 essential hypertensives, the gradual increase in plasma renin activity was observed until 10 days of cold storage. The same result was obtained in the case of primary aldosteronism. However, there was no increase in renin activity despite of cold storage for 10 days in plasma which was sampled from this patient 45 days after operation. These data indicate that a period of 4 days for cryoactivation of human plasma renin as has been reported by Sealey et al. is not sufficient to accomplish activation of renin by cold storage.", "contents": "Change in plasma renin activity by cold storage of plasma in normal subjects and patients with essential hypertension and primary aldosteronism. The time courses of change in renin activity after cold storage of human plasma at -5 degrees C and pH 7.4 were examined in 5 normal subjects, 6 patients with essential hypertension and one female patient with primary aldosteronism before and after extirpation of the adrenal tumor. In the 5 normal subjects and 6 essential hypertensives, the gradual increase in plasma renin activity was observed until 10 days of cold storage. The same result was obtained in the case of primary aldosteronism. However, there was no increase in renin activity despite of cold storage for 10 days in plasma which was sampled from this patient 45 days after operation. These data indicate that a period of 4 days for cryoactivation of human plasma renin as has been reported by Sealey et al. is not sufficient to accomplish activation of renin by cold storage.", "PMID": 452002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9937", "title": "Heterogeneity of plasma insulin and triglyceride levels in obesity demonstrated by family study.", "content": "Fifty relatives of 7 families with high prevalence of obesity were investigated and the possibility was shown that there were three forms of familial obesity--normoinsulinemic obesity, hyperinsulinemic obesity and diabetic obesity. In normoinsulinemic obesity, both glucose tolerance and plasma lipids were normal with a few exceptions whereas in hyperinsulinemic obesity, mild glucose intolerance and manifest hyperlipidemia, and in diabetic obesity, blunted insulinogenic index and more advanced glucose intolerance with slight hyperlipidemia existed.", "contents": "Heterogeneity of plasma insulin and triglyceride levels in obesity demonstrated by family study. Fifty relatives of 7 families with high prevalence of obesity were investigated and the possibility was shown that there were three forms of familial obesity--normoinsulinemic obesity, hyperinsulinemic obesity and diabetic obesity. In normoinsulinemic obesity, both glucose tolerance and plasma lipids were normal with a few exceptions whereas in hyperinsulinemic obesity, mild glucose intolerance and manifest hyperlipidemia, and in diabetic obesity, blunted insulinogenic index and more advanced glucose intolerance with slight hyperlipidemia existed.", "PMID": 452003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9938", "title": "The effect of transureteroureterostomy upon conduction of peristaltic waves.", "content": "Transureteroureterostomy was performed in 32 adult dogs, and the results were evaluated by electroureterographic, roentgenographic and histological investigations. The results revealed no significant ill effect on ureteral and renal functions, indicating the procedure to be quite reasonable and clinically acceptable.", "contents": "The effect of transureteroureterostomy upon conduction of peristaltic waves. Transureteroureterostomy was performed in 32 adult dogs, and the results were evaluated by electroureterographic, roentgenographic and histological investigations. The results revealed no significant ill effect on ureteral and renal functions, indicating the procedure to be quite reasonable and clinically acceptable.", "PMID": 452005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9939", "title": "Hepatitis B antigens and antibodies in asymptomatic carriers and in chronic liver diseases.", "content": "88% of asymptomatic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers and 97% of HBsAg positive patients with chronic hepatitis or non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis showed high titers of antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc). A high titer of anti-HBc, thus suggested to be an indicator of persistent hepatitis B virus infection, was found rarely in seronegative patients with chronic hepatitis, non-alcoholic cirrhosis, or alcoholic liver diseases. It was not revealed in idiopathic portal hypertension or Budd-Chiari syndrome. In asymptomatic HBsAg carriers of 20--29 years of age, hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) was significantly more frequently found in males than in females. There were differences in sex ratio, age, and history of blood transfusion between B type and non-B type of chronic hepatitis and non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis.", "contents": "Hepatitis B antigens and antibodies in asymptomatic carriers and in chronic liver diseases. 88% of asymptomatic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers and 97% of HBsAg positive patients with chronic hepatitis or non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis showed high titers of antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc). A high titer of anti-HBc, thus suggested to be an indicator of persistent hepatitis B virus infection, was found rarely in seronegative patients with chronic hepatitis, non-alcoholic cirrhosis, or alcoholic liver diseases. It was not revealed in idiopathic portal hypertension or Budd-Chiari syndrome. In asymptomatic HBsAg carriers of 20--29 years of age, hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) was significantly more frequently found in males than in females. There were differences in sex ratio, age, and history of blood transfusion between B type and non-B type of chronic hepatitis and non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis.", "PMID": 452007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9940", "title": "[Therapy of the metastasizing adenocarcinoma of the thyroid gland using 131-I. Experiences with 103 patients from 1963 to 1977 (author's transl)].", "content": "Results of 131-I therapy in 103 patients with metastatic thyroid cancer are analyzed. Therapy included: elimination of the thyroid or residual thyroid in case of previous surgery by application of about 80 mCi of 131-I and hormone substitution. About two months later, the hormone substitution was stopped. exogenous thyrotropine wsa given and 150--300 mCi of 131-I were applicated. Two days later, the thyroid medication was reinstituted, and a week later, the patient was studied by scintigraphy and other measures. In case of an iodine-metabolizing tumorous tissue, further 131-I applications were given. In the patients with distant metastases, the ten-year survival rate is about 22%. Small masses of papillary cancer can be eradicated in the majority by means of 131-I, whereas large tumor masses (several 100 g), can not be eliminated by 131-I. In well-differentiated follicular cancer, the recovery rate obtained by 131-I is lower than in papillary cancer. Manifestations of follicular cancer with anaplastic parts, or follicular cancer with eosinophilic cells or H\u00fcrthle-cell cancers could not be eradicated by 131-I. Treatment-induced mortality lies between 2 and 3% and is acceptable in view of the recovery rate and the serious nature of the disease.", "contents": "[Therapy of the metastasizing adenocarcinoma of the thyroid gland using 131-I. Experiences with 103 patients from 1963 to 1977 (author's transl)]. Results of 131-I therapy in 103 patients with metastatic thyroid cancer are analyzed. Therapy included: elimination of the thyroid or residual thyroid in case of previous surgery by application of about 80 mCi of 131-I and hormone substitution. About two months later, the hormone substitution was stopped. exogenous thyrotropine wsa given and 150--300 mCi of 131-I were applicated. Two days later, the thyroid medication was reinstituted, and a week later, the patient was studied by scintigraphy and other measures. In case of an iodine-metabolizing tumorous tissue, further 131-I applications were given. In the patients with distant metastases, the ten-year survival rate is about 22%. Small masses of papillary cancer can be eradicated in the majority by means of 131-I, whereas large tumor masses (several 100 g), can not be eliminated by 131-I. In well-differentiated follicular cancer, the recovery rate obtained by 131-I is lower than in papillary cancer. Manifestations of follicular cancer with anaplastic parts, or follicular cancer with eosinophilic cells or H\u00fcrthle-cell cancers could not be eradicated by 131-I. Treatment-induced mortality lies between 2 and 3% and is acceptable in view of the recovery rate and the serious nature of the disease.", "PMID": 452047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9941", "title": "[The dosage for tangential pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall using 60Co in surgically treated cancer of the breast and the irradiation of the parasternal lymph nodes (author's transl)].", "content": "The determination of the dose to the patient during excentric pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall is described. The dose delivered in the course of irradiation is simultaneously measured at the patient's surface, using a measuring system with LiF-rods which was especially developed for this purpose. The value obtained has to be multiplied with a correction factor FK=0.96 in order to yield the maximum dose, being located at a depth of 2.5 mm below the skin. The accuracy of this method for determination of doses is discussed, and the deviations are shown not to exceed 5 or 6% of the total dose. The dosage by means of tube chamber measurement is represented as an alternative method. The parasternal lymph nodes are irradiated, in addition to the dose from pendulum irradiation, with a fixed field and employing a lead wedge, both lymphatic chains thus receiving a homogeneous dose.", "contents": "[The dosage for tangential pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall using 60Co in surgically treated cancer of the breast and the irradiation of the parasternal lymph nodes (author's transl)]. The determination of the dose to the patient during excentric pendulum irradiation of the thoracic wall is described. The dose delivered in the course of irradiation is simultaneously measured at the patient's surface, using a measuring system with LiF-rods which was especially developed for this purpose. The value obtained has to be multiplied with a correction factor FK=0.96 in order to yield the maximum dose, being located at a depth of 2.5 mm below the skin. The accuracy of this method for determination of doses is discussed, and the deviations are shown not to exceed 5 or 6% of the total dose. The dosage by means of tube chamber measurement is represented as an alternative method. The parasternal lymph nodes are irradiated, in addition to the dose from pendulum irradiation, with a fixed field and employing a lead wedge, both lymphatic chains thus receiving a homogeneous dose.", "PMID": 452048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9942", "title": "[Scintigraphic examinations of the lymph before endolymphatic radionuclide therapy of the malignant melanoma of the inferior extremity (author's transl)].", "content": "Between 1974 and March 1977, lymph scintigrams were taken on 68 patients with operated malignant melanomas of the inferior extremity before submitting these patients to an endolymphatic radionuclide therapy. The authors wanted to prove that the lymph canals were undamaged in order to avoid unnecessary cutaneous irradiation damages in case of a subsequent additional therapy. 58 lymph scintigrams showed normal findings with a symmetrical transport of 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid into the inguinal and iliacal lymph nodes of both sides. The ELRT could be accomplished successfully on all patients of this group. Ten lymph scintigrams showed pathological findings with evidence of activity in the wound region. The ELRT was cancelled in eight cases, and two essays had to be stopped without any success. Our experiences show that lymph scintigraphy with 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid is a simple and reliable method to examine the lymph canals of the inferior extremities. In case of patholological findings, one can avoid to order unnecessarily the expensive radioactive substance for the endolymphatic radionuclide therapy. An alternative punction point to that on the instep which is ordinarily used can possibly be found by a repeated examination.", "contents": "[Scintigraphic examinations of the lymph before endolymphatic radionuclide therapy of the malignant melanoma of the inferior extremity (author's transl)]. Between 1974 and March 1977, lymph scintigrams were taken on 68 patients with operated malignant melanomas of the inferior extremity before submitting these patients to an endolymphatic radionuclide therapy. The authors wanted to prove that the lymph canals were undamaged in order to avoid unnecessary cutaneous irradiation damages in case of a subsequent additional therapy. 58 lymph scintigrams showed normal findings with a symmetrical transport of 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid into the inguinal and iliacal lymph nodes of both sides. The ELRT could be accomplished successfully on all patients of this group. Ten lymph scintigrams showed pathological findings with evidence of activity in the wound region. The ELRT was cancelled in eight cases, and two essays had to be stopped without any success. Our experiences show that lymph scintigraphy with 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid is a simple and reliable method to examine the lymph canals of the inferior extremities. In case of patholological findings, one can avoid to order unnecessarily the expensive radioactive substance for the endolymphatic radionuclide therapy. An alternative punction point to that on the instep which is ordinarily used can possibly be found by a repeated examination.", "PMID": 452049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9943", "title": "[An analytical method to calculate electron dose distributions. Part I: Method (author's transl)].", "content": "A method for the calculation of electron dose distributions is described. The dose distributions of stationary electron beams in water are represented by formulas for depth dose curves and transverse distributions. Curved surfaces, oblique incidence of rays, and inhomogeneities are taken into account by applying the law of distance and the method of equivalent thicknesses of water layers. A detailed program is given to calculate the electron dose distributions in that plane of the central ray which is at right angle to the theoretical circle plane of a 42 MeV betatron.", "contents": "[An analytical method to calculate electron dose distributions. Part I: Method (author's transl)]. A method for the calculation of electron dose distributions is described. The dose distributions of stationary electron beams in water are represented by formulas for depth dose curves and transverse distributions. Curved surfaces, oblique incidence of rays, and inhomogeneities are taken into account by applying the law of distance and the method of equivalent thicknesses of water layers. A detailed program is given to calculate the electron dose distributions in that plane of the central ray which is at right angle to the theoretical circle plane of a 42 MeV betatron.", "PMID": 452050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9944", "title": "[Criteria for the optimization of geometrical dose distributions in radiotherapy (author's transl)].", "content": "The author has deducted biologic criteria for a relative optimization of geometrical dose distributions in radiotherapy. The numerical calculation is based upon, among others, the Ellis formula and the dependence on the volume of tolerance doses in healthy persons. The criteria are suited for being applied in computerized therapy planning. They can be integrated without any problem into existing program systems.", "contents": "[Criteria for the optimization of geometrical dose distributions in radiotherapy (author's transl)]. The author has deducted biologic criteria for a relative optimization of geometrical dose distributions in radiotherapy. The numerical calculation is based upon, among others, the Ellis formula and the dependence on the volume of tolerance doses in healthy persons. The criteria are suited for being applied in computerized therapy planning. They can be integrated without any problem into existing program systems.", "PMID": 452051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9945", "title": "Observations regarding the x-ray beams from the Philips RT-305 therapy machine.", "content": "A Philips RT-305 X-ray therapy unit was found to produce beams of considerable asymmetry. This has been corrected by use of a small wedge-shaped symmetry filter, placed close to the X-ray tube. The symmetry filter has only a small effect on depth doses and half-value layers.", "contents": "Observations regarding the x-ray beams from the Philips RT-305 therapy machine. A Philips RT-305 X-ray therapy unit was found to produce beams of considerable asymmetry. This has been corrected by use of a small wedge-shaped symmetry filter, placed close to the X-ray tube. The symmetry filter has only a small effect on depth doses and half-value layers.", "PMID": 452052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9946", "title": "[Therapy planning at the CT (author's transl)].", "content": "A therapy planning system was installed in a computer tomography hardware. This configuration has some advantages for treatment planning: 1. CT-images and isodoses can be overlaid. 2. Using skin markers in the computer tomography the actual therapy can easily be checked. 3. This method offers a good method for recording isodoses and anatomic cross sections simultaneously.", "contents": "[Therapy planning at the CT (author's transl)]. A therapy planning system was installed in a computer tomography hardware. This configuration has some advantages for treatment planning: 1. CT-images and isodoses can be overlaid. 2. Using skin markers in the computer tomography the actual therapy can easily be checked. 3. This method offers a good method for recording isodoses and anatomic cross sections simultaneously.", "PMID": 452053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9947", "title": "[Fully automatical control of patient positioning--a new technique leading to exact and safe radiation therapy (author's transl)].", "content": "Any motion of the patient causing a displacement of the target volume or an immediate mechanical danger in the course of radiation therapy must be prevented. A new possibility for individual objective monitoring of patient movements, fully automatical, can be presented. Every significant displacement is releasing alarm and is detectable instantaneously. Normal respiratory movements or even the motion of the gantry do not cause a wrong alarm. Important displacements will interrupt the irradiation. Mechanical hazards to the patient thus are almost impossible. First experiences are reported.", "contents": "[Fully automatical control of patient positioning--a new technique leading to exact and safe radiation therapy (author's transl)]. Any motion of the patient causing a displacement of the target volume or an immediate mechanical danger in the course of radiation therapy must be prevented. A new possibility for individual objective monitoring of patient movements, fully automatical, can be presented. Every significant displacement is releasing alarm and is detectable instantaneously. Normal respiratory movements or even the motion of the gantry do not cause a wrong alarm. Important displacements will interrupt the irradiation. Mechanical hazards to the patient thus are almost impossible. First experiences are reported.", "PMID": 452054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9948", "title": "[A device for immediate determination of focal depths during the localization with a therapy simulator (author's transl)].", "content": "Construction and capability of a measuring set-up are described which enables the direct display and storage of distances in a patient's body at arbitrary reference levels during the localization. The arrangement is characterized by a simple mounting immune from disturbances, and it exhibits a high measuring accuracy.", "contents": "[A device for immediate determination of focal depths during the localization with a therapy simulator (author's transl)]. Construction and capability of a measuring set-up are described which enables the direct display and storage of distances in a patient's body at arbitrary reference levels during the localization. The arrangement is characterized by a simple mounting immune from disturbances, and it exhibits a high measuring accuracy.", "PMID": 452055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9949", "title": "[Optimized treatment planning in 60Co therapy: application of a schedule for irradiation of the lateral lymphatic areas of the neck by means of a programmable pocket computer (author's transl)].", "content": "The present program for irradiation of the lymphatics at the neck is yielding good results with reasonable expenditure. The shape of the neck can be shown not to influence the isodose curves. Thus, it is possible to use a programmable pocket computer for calculation of the irradiation. An appropriate scheme has been established.", "contents": "[Optimized treatment planning in 60Co therapy: application of a schedule for irradiation of the lateral lymphatic areas of the neck by means of a programmable pocket computer (author's transl)]. The present program for irradiation of the lymphatics at the neck is yielding good results with reasonable expenditure. The shape of the neck can be shown not to influence the isodose curves. Thus, it is possible to use a programmable pocket computer for calculation of the irradiation. An appropriate scheme has been established.", "PMID": 452056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9950", "title": "Immediate mechanical reactions of isolated human detrusor muscle on x-irradiation.", "content": "The mechanical activity (isotonic registration) of isolated detrusor (smooth) muscle preparations from the human urinary bladder (surgical material) is investigated. The preparations reacted on X-irradiation (50 kV) with an immediate dose-dependent tonic contraction at threshold-doses of 100 to 1000 R (1 to 3 kR/min). The contraction was either reversible, semireversible or persistent, and the basal muscle tone was elevated. A tachyphylactic reaction was observed. The phasic activity of the preparations was temporarily increased, then inhibited after irradiation. The radiation-induced changes of the human and guinea-pig detrusor muscle are compared and their possible relation to the functional disturbances of the urinary bladder after radiotherapy is discussed.", "contents": "Immediate mechanical reactions of isolated human detrusor muscle on x-irradiation. The mechanical activity (isotonic registration) of isolated detrusor (smooth) muscle preparations from the human urinary bladder (surgical material) is investigated. The preparations reacted on X-irradiation (50 kV) with an immediate dose-dependent tonic contraction at threshold-doses of 100 to 1000 R (1 to 3 kR/min). The contraction was either reversible, semireversible or persistent, and the basal muscle tone was elevated. A tachyphylactic reaction was observed. The phasic activity of the preparations was temporarily increased, then inhibited after irradiation. The radiation-induced changes of the human and guinea-pig detrusor muscle are compared and their possible relation to the functional disturbances of the urinary bladder after radiotherapy is discussed.", "PMID": 452057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9951", "title": "Direct evidence for the involvement of prostaglandin F2 alpha in the first step of estrone-induced blastocyst implantation in the spayed rat.", "content": "The effect of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) on blastocyst implantation in spayed rats has been studied. In preliminary experiments, the first implantation sites were observed 8 - 12 hours after a single injection of estrone in ovariectomized and progesterone-conditioned rats. Intraluminal instillation of PGF2 alpha into the right uterine horn 8 - 10 h after the estrone injection increased the number of implantation sites. Even treatment with PGF2 alpha without previous estrone injection induced the first step of blastocyst implantation as shown by uterine dye site reaction (Niagara-blue test). The results are discussed with regard to the possible role of PGF2 alpha in the regulation of the blastocyst implantation processes in the rat.", "contents": "Direct evidence for the involvement of prostaglandin F2 alpha in the first step of estrone-induced blastocyst implantation in the spayed rat. The effect of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) on blastocyst implantation in spayed rats has been studied. In preliminary experiments, the first implantation sites were observed 8 - 12 hours after a single injection of estrone in ovariectomized and progesterone-conditioned rats. Intraluminal instillation of PGF2 alpha into the right uterine horn 8 - 10 h after the estrone injection increased the number of implantation sites. Even treatment with PGF2 alpha without previous estrone injection induced the first step of blastocyst implantation as shown by uterine dye site reaction (Niagara-blue test). The results are discussed with regard to the possible role of PGF2 alpha in the regulation of the blastocyst implantation processes in the rat.", "PMID": 452058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9952", "title": "Synthesis and reduction of steroid C-20 alkylidene cyanoacetates.", "content": "The geometry of the condensation products between ethyl cyanoacetate and 20-ketosteroids (5 alpha-pregnane-20-one, 3 beta-hydroxypregn-5-en-20-one and 3 beta-acetoxypregn-5-en-20-one) was established by NMR spectra. Reduction of these steroid C-20 alkylidene cyanoacetates was shown to afford one of the two possible 20-C epimers, which seen to correspond to the 20 beta-methyl configuration.", "contents": "Synthesis and reduction of steroid C-20 alkylidene cyanoacetates. The geometry of the condensation products between ethyl cyanoacetate and 20-ketosteroids (5 alpha-pregnane-20-one, 3 beta-hydroxypregn-5-en-20-one and 3 beta-acetoxypregn-5-en-20-one) was established by NMR spectra. Reduction of these steroid C-20 alkylidene cyanoacetates was shown to afford one of the two possible 20-C epimers, which seen to correspond to the 20 beta-methyl configuration.", "PMID": 452059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9953", "title": "Validation of a specific radioimmunoassay to measure plasma cortisol in the fetal sheep.", "content": "A procedure utilizing co-chromatography and complementary antiserum comparisons was employed to assess the specificity of a cortisol radioimmunoassay for use in the chronically catheterized fetal sheep preparation. Complementary antiserum comparisons is a technique by which two different cortisol antisera, prepared from conjugates attached at opposite ends of the cortisol molecule, were used to determine cortisol concentrations in the same ovine fetal plasma specimens. Results were not significantly different between the two groups, each measured by a different antiserum. This procedure may be used to assess assay specificity in any species in which steroid radioimmunoassays are being adapted.", "contents": "Validation of a specific radioimmunoassay to measure plasma cortisol in the fetal sheep. A procedure utilizing co-chromatography and complementary antiserum comparisons was employed to assess the specificity of a cortisol radioimmunoassay for use in the chronically catheterized fetal sheep preparation. Complementary antiserum comparisons is a technique by which two different cortisol antisera, prepared from conjugates attached at opposite ends of the cortisol molecule, were used to determine cortisol concentrations in the same ovine fetal plasma specimens. Results were not significantly different between the two groups, each measured by a different antiserum. This procedure may be used to assess assay specificity in any species in which steroid radioimmunoassays are being adapted.", "PMID": 452060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9954", "title": "Serum levels of progesterone, 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone and hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones in the prepartum and postpartum equine.", "content": "Blood samples were collected from eight mares for ten days before and two days following parturition. Progesterone, 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone and hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones were extracted from serum, separated by Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and quantitated by radioimmunoassay. Progesterone levels ranged from 8.5 to 4.1 ng/ml among mares with normal parturition and decreased to 1.2 ng/ml after parturition. One mare with a retained placenta maintained the prepartal levels of progesterone into the postpartum period. 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone increased to a level of 133 ng/ml at 80 hrs before parturition and began decreasing and reached a level of 9.2 ng/ml in the postpartum period. Levels of hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones were variable with a high of 1690 ng/ml and declined to a postpartum level of 60 ng/ml. The timing of the decline varied among the mares. The possible source and significance of these progestins remain speculative.", "contents": "Serum levels of progesterone, 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone and hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones in the prepartum and postpartum equine. Blood samples were collected from eight mares for ten days before and two days following parturition. Progesterone, 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone and hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones were extracted from serum, separated by Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and quantitated by radioimmunoassay. Progesterone levels ranged from 8.5 to 4.1 ng/ml among mares with normal parturition and decreased to 1.2 ng/ml after parturition. One mare with a retained placenta maintained the prepartal levels of progesterone into the postpartum period. 5 alpha-dihydroprogesterone increased to a level of 133 ng/ml at 80 hrs before parturition and began decreasing and reached a level of 9.2 ng/ml in the postpartum period. Levels of hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnanones were variable with a high of 1690 ng/ml and declined to a postpartum level of 60 ng/ml. The timing of the decline varied among the mares. The possible source and significance of these progestins remain speculative.", "PMID": 452061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9955", "title": "Disposition and metabolism of 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-4-estern-3-one (TSAA-291), a new antiandrogen, in rats.", "content": "Matabolic fate of a new antiandrogen, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-4-estren-3-one (TSAA-291), was studied in rats. 14C-TSAA-291 intramuscularly injected as an aqueous suspension was absorbed gradually to give an increase in the plasma level which attained a plateau at 0.5 h, persisted till 8 h and then declined with an approx. half-life of 3.6 days. The drug was widely distributed in tissues, with the concns. almost equal to or higher than that in the plasma. The 14C-drug was eliminated mostly as metabolites within 10 days after dosing with higher activities found in the feces than in urine. Biliary 14C effectively underwent enterohepatic cycling. Biliary metabolites of TSAA-291 were characterized by the combined use of deuterium labeling and GLC-MS analysis. The metabolites identified were as follows: the parent drug, monohydroxy TSAA-291 having the additional hydroxy function in the steroid skeleton, 17 beta-hydroxy-16 beta-(1 xi-hydroxyethyl)-4-estren-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 beta-estran-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-estran-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-5 beta-estrane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol, 16 beta-ethyl-5 alpha-estrane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol, 16 beta-ethyl-3 alpha-hydroxy-5 beta-estran-17-one and 16 beta-ethyl-3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-estran-17-one. Monoketodihydroxy and/or trihydroxy metabolites were also detected in the bile.", "contents": "Disposition and metabolism of 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-4-estern-3-one (TSAA-291), a new antiandrogen, in rats. Matabolic fate of a new antiandrogen, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-4-estren-3-one (TSAA-291), was studied in rats. 14C-TSAA-291 intramuscularly injected as an aqueous suspension was absorbed gradually to give an increase in the plasma level which attained a plateau at 0.5 h, persisted till 8 h and then declined with an approx. half-life of 3.6 days. The drug was widely distributed in tissues, with the concns. almost equal to or higher than that in the plasma. The 14C-drug was eliminated mostly as metabolites within 10 days after dosing with higher activities found in the feces than in urine. Biliary 14C effectively underwent enterohepatic cycling. Biliary metabolites of TSAA-291 were characterized by the combined use of deuterium labeling and GLC-MS analysis. The metabolites identified were as follows: the parent drug, monohydroxy TSAA-291 having the additional hydroxy function in the steroid skeleton, 17 beta-hydroxy-16 beta-(1 xi-hydroxyethyl)-4-estren-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 beta-estran-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-estran-3-one, 16 beta-ethyl-5 beta-estrane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol, 16 beta-ethyl-5 alpha-estrane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol, 16 beta-ethyl-3 alpha-hydroxy-5 beta-estran-17-one and 16 beta-ethyl-3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-estran-17-one. Monoketodihydroxy and/or trihydroxy metabolites were also detected in the bile.", "PMID": 452062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9956", "title": "A simplified method for freezing human blood platelets in glycerol-glucose using a statically controlled cooling rate device.", "content": "An inexpensive, statically controlled cooling rate device consisting of a cassette of aluminum plates and cardboard insulation in a plastic bag was used to freeze platelets in liquid nitrogen with glycerol-glucose as cryoprotectant. Depending on the thermocouple location, the cooling rate in the freezing bag varied between 22.1 and 38.6 C per minute, averaging 33.6 +/- 1.1 C per minute at the center. The post-thaw recovery of platelets frozen with this device and reconstituted in plasma averaged 88.6 +/- 11.7 per cent, compared to 86.1 +/- 9.9 per cent for nonfrozen, but otherwise identically processed platelets. 14C Serotonin uptake after 0.5-hour incubation was 95.9 +/- 1.9 per cent for fresh platelets in platelet-rich plasma, 92.7 +/- 4.4 per cent for nonfrozen processed platelets, and 81.4 +/- 11.8 per cent for frozen platelets, increasing to 85.9 +/- 7.7 per cent after one-hour incubation.", "contents": "A simplified method for freezing human blood platelets in glycerol-glucose using a statically controlled cooling rate device. An inexpensive, statically controlled cooling rate device consisting of a cassette of aluminum plates and cardboard insulation in a plastic bag was used to freeze platelets in liquid nitrogen with glycerol-glucose as cryoprotectant. Depending on the thermocouple location, the cooling rate in the freezing bag varied between 22.1 and 38.6 C per minute, averaging 33.6 +/- 1.1 C per minute at the center. The post-thaw recovery of platelets frozen with this device and reconstituted in plasma averaged 88.6 +/- 11.7 per cent, compared to 86.1 +/- 9.9 per cent for nonfrozen, but otherwise identically processed platelets. 14C Serotonin uptake after 0.5-hour incubation was 95.9 +/- 1.9 per cent for fresh platelets in platelet-rich plasma, 92.7 +/- 4.4 per cent for nonfrozen processed platelets, and 81.4 +/- 11.8 per cent for frozen platelets, increasing to 85.9 +/- 7.7 per cent after one-hour incubation.", "PMID": 452066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9957", "title": "Ultrastructural alterations and phagocytic function of cryopreserved platelets.", "content": "Fresh human platelets and platelets cryopreserved in 4% dimethylsulfoxide were examined ultrastructurally before and after incubation in a suspension of latex particles. Cryopreserved platelets had fewer discoid forms than fresh platelets. The cryopreserved platelets had many sphered platelets containing an increased number of vacuoles; the sphered platelets were more electron-lucent margination and pallor of organelles. Phagocytosis of latex into vacuoles was markedly impaired in the cryopreserved platelets. The morphologic alterations suggested that the freezing, thawing, and washing procedures reduced the functional activity of platelets.", "contents": "Ultrastructural alterations and phagocytic function of cryopreserved platelets. Fresh human platelets and platelets cryopreserved in 4% dimethylsulfoxide were examined ultrastructurally before and after incubation in a suspension of latex particles. Cryopreserved platelets had fewer discoid forms than fresh platelets. The cryopreserved platelets had many sphered platelets containing an increased number of vacuoles; the sphered platelets were more electron-lucent margination and pallor of organelles. Phagocytosis of latex into vacuoles was markedly impaired in the cryopreserved platelets. The morphologic alterations suggested that the freezing, thawing, and washing procedures reduced the functional activity of platelets.", "PMID": 452069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9958", "title": "An analysis of surgical blood use in United States hospitals with application to the maximum surgical blood order schedule.", "content": "Excessive preoperative crossmatching can be limited with a maximum surgical blood order schedule (MSBOS) which is a list of the commonly performed elective surgical procedures performed in a hospital with the maximum number of units of blood which will be crossmatched preoperatively for each. The purpose of this study was to analyze the blood requirements of 535,031 surgical patients treated in 300 United States hospitals during 1974, and to suggest maximum preoperative blood orders including type and screen recommendations based on data derived from this large national patient sample. Such recommendations are offered for 63 common elective surgical procedures. Specific reference is made to blood utilization during hysterectomy, transurethral resection of the prostate, and cesarean section. A preoperative type and screen order is adequate for the vast majority of patients undergoing these latter procedures.", "contents": "An analysis of surgical blood use in United States hospitals with application to the maximum surgical blood order schedule. Excessive preoperative crossmatching can be limited with a maximum surgical blood order schedule (MSBOS) which is a list of the commonly performed elective surgical procedures performed in a hospital with the maximum number of units of blood which will be crossmatched preoperatively for each. The purpose of this study was to analyze the blood requirements of 535,031 surgical patients treated in 300 United States hospitals during 1974, and to suggest maximum preoperative blood orders including type and screen recommendations based on data derived from this large national patient sample. Such recommendations are offered for 63 common elective surgical procedures. Specific reference is made to blood utilization during hysterectomy, transurethral resection of the prostate, and cesarean section. A preoperative type and screen order is adequate for the vast majority of patients undergoing these latter procedures.", "PMID": 452067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9959", "title": "Failure to confirm specificity of samples containing a very high titer of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).", "content": "Two samples repeatedly positive for HBsAg by the AusRIA II screening procedure failed to be confirmed by neutralization with anti-HBs serum. Both samples could be effectively neutralized by the same anti-HBs sera if diluted 1:10, 1:50 and 1:100 prior to testing. It is suggested that the inability to neutralize was due to a very high concentration of HBsAg in these samples.", "contents": "Failure to confirm specificity of samples containing a very high titer of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Two samples repeatedly positive for HBsAg by the AusRIA II screening procedure failed to be confirmed by neutralization with anti-HBs serum. Both samples could be effectively neutralized by the same anti-HBs sera if diluted 1:10, 1:50 and 1:100 prior to testing. It is suggested that the inability to neutralize was due to a very high concentration of HBsAg in these samples.", "PMID": 452071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9960", "title": "Clinical and serologic management of patients with methyldopa-induced positive antiglobulin tests.", "content": "Methyldopa can produce both a positive direct antiglobulin test and less commonly a positive indirect antiglobulin test. When the drug-induced antibody is present in the serum, it acts as a panagglutinin and reacts with all normal red blood cells; consequently crossmatch-compatible blood cannot be prepared. Although the methyldopa-induced antibody itself rarely produces hemolysis, difficulties can arise in previously unscreened patients in whom the panagglutinin may mask an unknown, pre-existing, and potentially hemolytic alloantibody. We report on our clinical and serologic management of 14 such patients for whom transfusions were requested.", "contents": "Clinical and serologic management of patients with methyldopa-induced positive antiglobulin tests. Methyldopa can produce both a positive direct antiglobulin test and less commonly a positive indirect antiglobulin test. When the drug-induced antibody is present in the serum, it acts as a panagglutinin and reacts with all normal red blood cells; consequently crossmatch-compatible blood cannot be prepared. Although the methyldopa-induced antibody itself rarely produces hemolysis, difficulties can arise in previously unscreened patients in whom the panagglutinin may mask an unknown, pre-existing, and potentially hemolytic alloantibody. We report on our clinical and serologic management of 14 such patients for whom transfusions were requested.", "PMID": 452070} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9961", "title": "Liquid and freeze-preservation of dog red blood cells.", "content": "After storage in the liquid state at 4 C for up to three weeks, washing with sodium chloride solutions, and storage in a sodium chloride-glucose-phosphate solution for 24 hours at 4 C, dog red blood cells had excellent post-transfusion survival. After freeze-preservation with 40% W/V glycerol at -80 C or with 20% W/V glycerol at -150 C, thawing, washing with sodium chloride solutions, and storage in a sodium chloride-glucose-phosphate solution for 24 hours at 4 C, dog red blood cells had satisfactory recovery values in vitro, acceptable 24-hour post-transfusion survival and long-term survival values, and normal oxygen transport function. Controlled addition and removal of the cryoprotectant, glycerol, helped reduce the amount of osmotic damage to the red blood cells and enhanced freeze-preservation. Osmotic damage can also be prevented by warming the dog blood to a temperature of 22 +/- 2 C prior to centrifugation to concentrate the red blood cells and remove the plasma. This step enhances removal of the cold agglutinins. Another processing step used by the authors was to add a sodium chloride solution to the dog red blood cells before adding the glycerol solution in order to eliminate rouleaux formation.", "contents": "Liquid and freeze-preservation of dog red blood cells. After storage in the liquid state at 4 C for up to three weeks, washing with sodium chloride solutions, and storage in a sodium chloride-glucose-phosphate solution for 24 hours at 4 C, dog red blood cells had excellent post-transfusion survival. After freeze-preservation with 40% W/V glycerol at -80 C or with 20% W/V glycerol at -150 C, thawing, washing with sodium chloride solutions, and storage in a sodium chloride-glucose-phosphate solution for 24 hours at 4 C, dog red blood cells had satisfactory recovery values in vitro, acceptable 24-hour post-transfusion survival and long-term survival values, and normal oxygen transport function. Controlled addition and removal of the cryoprotectant, glycerol, helped reduce the amount of osmotic damage to the red blood cells and enhanced freeze-preservation. Osmotic damage can also be prevented by warming the dog blood to a temperature of 22 +/- 2 C prior to centrifugation to concentrate the red blood cells and remove the plasma. This step enhances removal of the cold agglutinins. Another processing step used by the authors was to add a sodium chloride solution to the dog red blood cells before adding the glycerol solution in order to eliminate rouleaux formation.", "PMID": 452068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9962", "title": "Long-term plateletpheresis in the management of primary thrombocytosis.", "content": "We attempted to control the platelet count of a patient with primary thrombocytosis utilizing long-term plateletpheresis therapy. The patient previously could not be controlled with chemotherapy, because of rapid development of leukopenia. Although intensive pheresis at the rate of four to five procedures per week produced rapid lowering of the patient's platelet count, continued therapy at the rate of two to three procedures a week failed to maintain these counts, and platelets gradually rose to pretreatment levels. We conclude that while plateletpheresis can produce acute lowering of elevated platelet counts, the rate of platelet production in primary thrombocytosis may be too rapid to allow for long-term control by pheresis alone, utilizing an acceptable treatment schedule of one of three procedures per week.", "contents": "Long-term plateletpheresis in the management of primary thrombocytosis. We attempted to control the platelet count of a patient with primary thrombocytosis utilizing long-term plateletpheresis therapy. The patient previously could not be controlled with chemotherapy, because of rapid development of leukopenia. Although intensive pheresis at the rate of four to five procedures per week produced rapid lowering of the patient's platelet count, continued therapy at the rate of two to three procedures a week failed to maintain these counts, and platelets gradually rose to pretreatment levels. We conclude that while plateletpheresis can produce acute lowering of elevated platelet counts, the rate of platelet production in primary thrombocytosis may be too rapid to allow for long-term control by pheresis alone, utilizing an acceptable treatment schedule of one of three procedures per week.", "PMID": 452073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9963", "title": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia associated with IgG auto anti-N.", "content": "A second case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia mediated by an IgG auto Anti-N is described. The patient's red blood cells were sensitized with both IgG and complement. The serum antibody was not inactivated by 2-mercaptoethanol treatment, and reacted by indirect antiglobulin test at 37 C with monospecific anti-IgG. The IgG antibody eluted from the red blood cells and in the serum showed anti-N specificity. The patient was thought to have systemic lupus erythematosus. Following steroid therapy, the hemolytic anemia resolved with disappearance of the anti-N.", "contents": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia associated with IgG auto anti-N. A second case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia mediated by an IgG auto Anti-N is described. The patient's red blood cells were sensitized with both IgG and complement. The serum antibody was not inactivated by 2-mercaptoethanol treatment, and reacted by indirect antiglobulin test at 37 C with monospecific anti-IgG. The IgG antibody eluted from the red blood cells and in the serum showed anti-N specificity. The patient was thought to have systemic lupus erythematosus. Following steroid therapy, the hemolytic anemia resolved with disappearance of the anti-N.", "PMID": 452072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9964", "title": "Serum opsonins and chemotactins in neutropenic oncology patients.", "content": "Serum opsonins and chemotactins, C3 and C5, were studied in neutropenic oncology patients. Our data indicate that these individuals possess normal serum chemotactins and adequate opsonin activity regardless of disease status or prior chemotherapy. Their sera should therefore support function of transfused granulocytes.", "contents": "Serum opsonins and chemotactins in neutropenic oncology patients. Serum opsonins and chemotactins, C3 and C5, were studied in neutropenic oncology patients. Our data indicate that these individuals possess normal serum chemotactins and adequate opsonin activity regardless of disease status or prior chemotherapy. Their sera should therefore support function of transfused granulocytes.", "PMID": 452075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9965", "title": "Differentiation of granulocyte antigens demonstrated by granuloagglutinins and granulocytotoxins.", "content": "Twenty sera containing granuloagglutinins along with granulocytotoxins were typed with 27 to 54 samples of granulocytes different donors. For the most part, positive results of the microgranuloagglutination test and microgranulocytotoxic test were not in agreement. The positivity of the agglutination test was more frequent (35.24%) than that of the cytotoxic test (18.9%). The statistical evaluation of the results for each serum in both test made by calculating the correlation coefficient showed the two types of antibodies to be independent, and to determine different antigens.", "contents": "Differentiation of granulocyte antigens demonstrated by granuloagglutinins and granulocytotoxins. Twenty sera containing granuloagglutinins along with granulocytotoxins were typed with 27 to 54 samples of granulocytes different donors. For the most part, positive results of the microgranuloagglutination test and microgranulocytotoxic test were not in agreement. The positivity of the agglutination test was more frequent (35.24%) than that of the cytotoxic test (18.9%). The statistical evaluation of the results for each serum in both test made by calculating the correlation coefficient showed the two types of antibodies to be independent, and to determine different antigens.", "PMID": 452074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9966", "title": "Immunosuppression with azathioprine, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide.", "content": "An immunosuppressive regimen consisting of azathioprine (AZ), prednisone, and intermittent i.v. infusions of 400 mg of cyclophosphamide (CY) in the first post-transplant month was prospectively compared with a no CY regimen. There were no significant differences in patient or graft survival, graft function, or infectious complications between the two regimens.", "contents": "Immunosuppression with azathioprine, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide. An immunosuppressive regimen consisting of azathioprine (AZ), prednisone, and intermittent i.v. infusions of 400 mg of cyclophosphamide (CY) in the first post-transplant month was prospectively compared with a no CY regimen. There were no significant differences in patient or graft survival, graft function, or infectious complications between the two regimens.", "PMID": 452085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9967", "title": "Detection of complement (c3d) coated cells in a newborn due to maternal anti-i.", "content": "A case of a positive direct antiglobulin test on a newborn's cord red blood cells caused by maternal anti-i is reported. The direct antiglobulin test was moderately positive using polyspecific antiglobulin reagent and monospecific anti-C3d, but negative using monospecific anti-IgG. The infant showed no clinical signs of hemolytic disease of the newborn.", "contents": "Detection of complement (c3d) coated cells in a newborn due to maternal anti-i. A case of a positive direct antiglobulin test on a newborn's cord red blood cells caused by maternal anti-i is reported. The direct antiglobulin test was moderately positive using polyspecific antiglobulin reagent and monospecific anti-C3d, but negative using monospecific anti-IgG. The infant showed no clinical signs of hemolytic disease of the newborn.", "PMID": 452076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9968", "title": "Seventh allele of the HLA-C series (Cve).", "content": "Serum VE reacting with 29.8% of French individuals seemed to define the seventh allele of the HLA-C series as shown by serologic and genetic investigations. The gene frequency of Cve is 0.163.", "contents": "Seventh allele of the HLA-C series (Cve). Serum VE reacting with 29.8% of French individuals seemed to define the seventh allele of the HLA-C series as shown by serologic and genetic investigations. The gene frequency of Cve is 0.163.", "PMID": 452102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9969", "title": "[Delay of rat hepatocyte polyploidization in liver growth inhibition during hypokinesia].", "content": "Young rats, weighing 55-59g, after being for 10 days in conditions of limited mobility, show a retardation of body growth as well as that of liver growth. The decrease in the rate of organ growth is accompanied by a reduction of the cell proliferation and by a delay in polyploidization of hepatocytes in the liver of experimental rats.", "contents": "[Delay of rat hepatocyte polyploidization in liver growth inhibition during hypokinesia]. Young rats, weighing 55-59g, after being for 10 days in conditions of limited mobility, show a retardation of body growth as well as that of liver growth. The decrease in the rate of organ growth is accompanied by a reduction of the cell proliferation and by a delay in polyploidization of hepatocytes in the liver of experimental rats.", "PMID": 452110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9970", "title": "[Cell population kinetics and the cell population mechanisms of the circadian rhythm of proliferative activity in mouse esophageal epithelium].", "content": "The dynamics of 3H-thymidine labeled mitosis and diurnal rhythm of proliferative activity was studied. The isotope was injected to BALB/C mice at the peak of diurnal rhythm of DNA synthesis activity of basal layer cells of oesophageus epithelium. It has been established that the increase in the mitotic index during 24 hours depends on the increase in number of cells being in S-period. The data show that the increase of mitotic index at diurnal rhythm occurs at the expense of 75% of new G0-cells which entered into the mitotic cycle, and of 25% of re-entering cells that had divided during the maximal mitotic activity a day before. It is found that the duration of mitotic cycle of cell population which entered into the mitotic cycle synchronously is almost equal to the period of diurnal rhythm of mitotic activity, i.e. 24 hours.", "contents": "[Cell population kinetics and the cell population mechanisms of the circadian rhythm of proliferative activity in mouse esophageal epithelium]. The dynamics of 3H-thymidine labeled mitosis and diurnal rhythm of proliferative activity was studied. The isotope was injected to BALB/C mice at the peak of diurnal rhythm of DNA synthesis activity of basal layer cells of oesophageus epithelium. It has been established that the increase in the mitotic index during 24 hours depends on the increase in number of cells being in S-period. The data show that the increase of mitotic index at diurnal rhythm occurs at the expense of 75% of new G0-cells which entered into the mitotic cycle, and of 25% of re-entering cells that had divided during the maximal mitotic activity a day before. It is found that the duration of mitotic cycle of cell population which entered into the mitotic cycle synchronously is almost equal to the period of diurnal rhythm of mitotic activity, i.e. 24 hours.", "PMID": 452111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9971", "title": "[Effect of early photic deafferentation on the neuronal development of the parietal area of the rabbit cerebral cortex].", "content": "It has been shown interferometrically that the neurons of laminae III-V of the parietal area in the cortex of visual deprivated rabbits manifest features of morphochemical underdevelopment (decrease in size and protein content in the neurons) in comparision with the normal ones. These changes resemble those in the visual area, but are less pronounced being definitely specific for each lamina. The reaction of the neurons of the cortex parietal area of rodents on the light deafferentation is discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of early photic deafferentation on the neuronal development of the parietal area of the rabbit cerebral cortex]. It has been shown interferometrically that the neurons of laminae III-V of the parietal area in the cortex of visual deprivated rabbits manifest features of morphochemical underdevelopment (decrease in size and protein content in the neurons) in comparision with the normal ones. These changes resemble those in the visual area, but are less pronounced being definitely specific for each lamina. The reaction of the neurons of the cortex parietal area of rodents on the light deafferentation is discussed.", "PMID": 452112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9972", "title": "[Topography and the protein synthesis level in the large pyramidal neurons during sleep and wakefulness].", "content": "In the large pyramidal neurons of the pariental cortex of cat during the slow-waved phase of sleep in comparison to the state of awake, an uneven decrease of the level of 3H-leucine inclusion was established in different functionally specialized zones of the cell. Using electron microscopy, a decrease in the number of polysomes and membrane-attached ribosomes was shown in the perinuclear zone of large pyramids in slow-waved phase of sleep. The results obtained suggest a decrease in the intensity of protein synthesis in comparison to the state of awake.", "contents": "[Topography and the protein synthesis level in the large pyramidal neurons during sleep and wakefulness]. In the large pyramidal neurons of the pariental cortex of cat during the slow-waved phase of sleep in comparison to the state of awake, an uneven decrease of the level of 3H-leucine inclusion was established in different functionally specialized zones of the cell. Using electron microscopy, a decrease in the number of polysomes and membrane-attached ribosomes was shown in the perinuclear zone of large pyramids in slow-waved phase of sleep. The results obtained suggest a decrease in the intensity of protein synthesis in comparison to the state of awake.", "PMID": 452113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9973", "title": "[Cell fusion in higher organisms under polyethylene glycol exposure].", "content": "An electron microscope study of higher plant protoplasts and human cell fusion was made using polyethylene glycol. The successive stages of proteoplast cell fusion, and the formation of intraspecific, interfamiliar, or interkingdom \"hybrid\" cells, and some details of their submicroscopic changes at the early stages of culturing are shown.", "contents": "[Cell fusion in higher organisms under polyethylene glycol exposure]. An electron microscope study of higher plant protoplasts and human cell fusion was made using polyethylene glycol. The successive stages of proteoplast cell fusion, and the formation of intraspecific, interfamiliar, or interkingdom \"hybrid\" cells, and some details of their submicroscopic changes at the early stages of culturing are shown.", "PMID": 452114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9974", "title": "[Sister chromatid exchanges in bromine incorporation into DNA cytosine nucleotides. III. 5-bromodeoxycytidine as a DNA thymine precursor. The characteristics of the exchanges].", "content": "Cell movement through the mitotic cycle and sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) were studied in human blood lymphocytes cultured in the presence of 5-bromodeoxycytidine (BrdC, 0.05 mM) plus thymidine (dT 0.4, 0.8, and 1.0 mM). In controls, lymphocytes were cultivated in the presence of 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU, 0.05 mM) and deoxycytidine (0.1 mM), or BrdC alone. All nucleosides were added to the cultures 28 hours prior to fixation and were maintained in the medium for 16 hours. As determined from percentage of metaphases of 1st to 3rd divisions, BrdC did not release from thymidine block. This fact leads us to conclude that BrdC in contrast to deoxycytidine does not serve as a cytosine precursor. No significant differences in the frequency of SCE and their distribution among chromosomes were found between cultures treated with BrdC and with BrdU.", "contents": "[Sister chromatid exchanges in bromine incorporation into DNA cytosine nucleotides. III. 5-bromodeoxycytidine as a DNA thymine precursor. The characteristics of the exchanges]. Cell movement through the mitotic cycle and sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) were studied in human blood lymphocytes cultured in the presence of 5-bromodeoxycytidine (BrdC, 0.05 mM) plus thymidine (dT 0.4, 0.8, and 1.0 mM). In controls, lymphocytes were cultivated in the presence of 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU, 0.05 mM) and deoxycytidine (0.1 mM), or BrdC alone. All nucleosides were added to the cultures 28 hours prior to fixation and were maintained in the medium for 16 hours. As determined from percentage of metaphases of 1st to 3rd divisions, BrdC did not release from thymidine block. This fact leads us to conclude that BrdC in contrast to deoxycytidine does not serve as a cytosine precursor. No significant differences in the frequency of SCE and their distribution among chromosomes were found between cultures treated with BrdC and with BrdU.", "PMID": 452115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9975", "title": "[Total protein content and concentration in the neurons of the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in the rat brain at the late stages of its existence].", "content": "The experimental lesion in rat brain was produced by the implantation of cobaltogelatin rod into the right parietalis anterior area. A quantitative measurement of total protein was made by microdensitometer in neurons controlateral to cobalt lesion at 112-115 days after cobalt implantation. In the experimental animals, protein content decreased in neurons of lamina III and V area parietalis anterior and the nucleus lateralis thalami by 6, 60 and 53%, resp. It has been concluded that different type neurons have different protein changes in response to paroxyzmal activity at late stages of epileptogenic mirror focus.", "contents": "[Total protein content and concentration in the neurons of the \"mirror\" epileptiform focus in the rat brain at the late stages of its existence]. The experimental lesion in rat brain was produced by the implantation of cobaltogelatin rod into the right parietalis anterior area. A quantitative measurement of total protein was made by microdensitometer in neurons controlateral to cobalt lesion at 112-115 days after cobalt implantation. In the experimental animals, protein content decreased in neurons of lamina III and V area parietalis anterior and the nucleus lateralis thalami by 6, 60 and 53%, resp. It has been concluded that different type neurons have different protein changes in response to paroxyzmal activity at late stages of epileptogenic mirror focus.", "PMID": 452116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9976", "title": "An investigation of the accuracy of the home address given by patients in an urban community in South India.", "content": "Studies were undertaken in three tuberculosis clinics in Madras, a large Indian city with a good civic organization, to assess the accuracy of address recorded routinely by registry clerks at the patient's first clinic attendance. The accuracy was poor, with 20% to 30% of the letters posted not reaching the patients. It was appreciably improved, by 10% to 20%, by supplementing the clerk's efforts with questioning by a motivated, experienced health visitor. An address card, a card on which the patient's address was recorded by the local postman or a literate neighbour, relative or friend, was returned by 90% to 94% of the patients, and the accuracy of addresses was found to be at least as good as that obtained with the health visitor. Even when all three sources of information were considered, the patient's home could not be traced in 3% of cases and was found with difficulty in 4%.", "contents": "An investigation of the accuracy of the home address given by patients in an urban community in South India. Studies were undertaken in three tuberculosis clinics in Madras, a large Indian city with a good civic organization, to assess the accuracy of address recorded routinely by registry clerks at the patient's first clinic attendance. The accuracy was poor, with 20% to 30% of the letters posted not reaching the patients. It was appreciably improved, by 10% to 20%, by supplementing the clerk's efforts with questioning by a motivated, experienced health visitor. An address card, a card on which the patient's address was recorded by the local postman or a literate neighbour, relative or friend, was returned by 90% to 94% of the patients, and the accuracy of addresses was found to be at least as good as that obtained with the health visitor. Even when all three sources of information were considered, the patient's home could not be traced in 3% of cases and was found with difficulty in 4%.", "PMID": 452118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9977", "title": "The development of tuberculosis in Afro-Asian immigrants.", "content": "Tuberculin testing and a chest x-ray have been carried out on 1492 Asian immigrants. Analysis has shown that the percentage tuberculin positive reactions does not increase with increasing length of stay in this country. Few arrive with active disease but after 3 months residence there is a steady incidence of tuberculosis morbidity. Apparently immigrants in the Harrow area arrive with past tuberculous infection, manifest only by a positive tuberculin test, and subsequently suffer endogenous exacerbation.", "contents": "The development of tuberculosis in Afro-Asian immigrants. Tuberculin testing and a chest x-ray have been carried out on 1492 Asian immigrants. Analysis has shown that the percentage tuberculin positive reactions does not increase with increasing length of stay in this country. Few arrive with active disease but after 3 months residence there is a steady incidence of tuberculosis morbidity. Apparently immigrants in the Harrow area arrive with past tuberculous infection, manifest only by a positive tuberculin test, and subsequently suffer endogenous exacerbation.", "PMID": 452119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9978", "title": "Preservation of mycobacteria at -70 degrees C: survival of unfrozen suspensions in transit.", "content": "Mycobacteria stored at -70 degrees C retain 100% viability and maintain their definitive taxonomic, serologic, immunologic, and pathogenic properties. When shipped at ambient temperatures, however, suspensions of all mycobacteria lose viability in transit, with those species having a narrow temperature range for growth (Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. bovis) being most severely affected. In spite of these losses, all strains retain their definitive taxonomic properties. If care is taken in pre-testing and post-testing the microbial populations being preserved, mycobacteria are probably best shipped in the lyophilized state, and this procedure has been successfully used for several international studies.", "contents": "Preservation of mycobacteria at -70 degrees C: survival of unfrozen suspensions in transit. Mycobacteria stored at -70 degrees C retain 100% viability and maintain their definitive taxonomic, serologic, immunologic, and pathogenic properties. When shipped at ambient temperatures, however, suspensions of all mycobacteria lose viability in transit, with those species having a narrow temperature range for growth (Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. bovis) being most severely affected. In spite of these losses, all strains retain their definitive taxonomic properties. If care is taken in pre-testing and post-testing the microbial populations being preserved, mycobacteria are probably best shipped in the lyophilized state, and this procedure has been successfully used for several international studies.", "PMID": 452120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9979", "title": "The importance of finger clubbing in pulmonary tuberculosis.", "content": "Finger clubbing was observed in 21% of 70 adult Nigerian patients presenting with pulmonary tuberculosis. These patients had a significantly higher incidence of haemoptysis and they also showed a significantly lower body weight and serum albumin than those without clubbing. Their chest x-rays revealed larger cavities and at 2 months the mortality of the patients with finger clubbing (40%) was very much higher than of those without (5.5%). It is suggested that finger clubbing is of value in assessing patients with pulmonary tuberculosis because it helps to identify those with severe destructive disease.", "contents": "The importance of finger clubbing in pulmonary tuberculosis. Finger clubbing was observed in 21% of 70 adult Nigerian patients presenting with pulmonary tuberculosis. These patients had a significantly higher incidence of haemoptysis and they also showed a significantly lower body weight and serum albumin than those without clubbing. Their chest x-rays revealed larger cavities and at 2 months the mortality of the patients with finger clubbing (40%) was very much higher than of those without (5.5%). It is suggested that finger clubbing is of value in assessing patients with pulmonary tuberculosis because it helps to identify those with severe destructive disease.", "PMID": 452121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9980", "title": "[Lipid peroxidation, peroxidase activity and glutathione antiperoxide systems in rat tissues under conditions of high altitude hypoxia].", "content": "The content of lipid peroxides in rat tissues does not vary essentially under conditions of high altitude hypoxia. The peroxidase activity undergoes fluctuating changes with a significant increase in brain tissues. Among the enzymes of the glutathione antiperoxide system only the glutathione peroxidase activity shows a 5-10-fold decrease. As assumption is advanced that under conditions of hypoxia there occurs an inhibition of the glutathione antiperoxide system, which prevents the lipid peroxides level in tissues from falling.", "contents": "[Lipid peroxidation, peroxidase activity and glutathione antiperoxide systems in rat tissues under conditions of high altitude hypoxia]. The content of lipid peroxides in rat tissues does not vary essentially under conditions of high altitude hypoxia. The peroxidase activity undergoes fluctuating changes with a significant increase in brain tissues. Among the enzymes of the glutathione antiperoxide system only the glutathione peroxidase activity shows a 5-10-fold decrease. As assumption is advanced that under conditions of hypoxia there occurs an inhibition of the glutathione antiperoxide system, which prevents the lipid peroxides level in tissues from falling.", "PMID": 452122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9981", "title": "[On the nature of rat hemoglobin heterogeneity].", "content": "Rat hemoglobin was fractionated by different methods. It is shown that the heterogenic system of hemoglobin includes six main fractions, the appearance of which is determined by 2 alpha- and 3 beta-similar chains. A subunit composition is established for hemoglobins certain fractions and their tetrameric structure is as follows: formula: (see text). A greater number of fractions when separating hemoglobin by high-sensitive methods is induced by its conformational changes. The surface of SH-groups of globin and the state of hem iron are found to be essentially significant in this process. The data are presented characterizing the isoelectric points, quantitative content of the fraction as well as of certain chains in the whole hemoglobin. A problem on the nature of the isolated subunits heterogeneities is under discussion.", "contents": "[On the nature of rat hemoglobin heterogeneity]. Rat hemoglobin was fractionated by different methods. It is shown that the heterogenic system of hemoglobin includes six main fractions, the appearance of which is determined by 2 alpha- and 3 beta-similar chains. A subunit composition is established for hemoglobins certain fractions and their tetrameric structure is as follows: formula: (see text). A greater number of fractions when separating hemoglobin by high-sensitive methods is induced by its conformational changes. The surface of SH-groups of globin and the state of hem iron are found to be essentially significant in this process. The data are presented characterizing the isoelectric points, quantitative content of the fraction as well as of certain chains in the whole hemoglobin. A problem on the nature of the isolated subunits heterogeneities is under discussion.", "PMID": 452123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9982", "title": "[Anticoagulate activity of phosphatidyl-ethanolamine and phosphatidyl-serine deacylation products].", "content": "The water-methanol phase products obtained by slight alkali deacylation of a phosphatidyl-ethanolamine and phosphatidyl serine mixture, reveal a higher specific anticoagulating activity than the base mix. In the composition of the water-methanol phase glycerin, serine, ethanolamine, phosphoryl-serine, phosphoryl-ethanolamine, glyceryl-phosphoryl-ethanolamine and glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine were detected by the method of thin-layer paper chromatography. The only substance, glycerly-phosphoryl-serine, possesses an inhibitory activity. Therefore, anticoagulative activity of phosphatidyl-serine is not connected with the presence of the fatty acid residue in its molecule, it is due to the glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine residue. The further glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine degradation is accompanied by the disappearance of the anticoagulative activity.", "contents": "[Anticoagulate activity of phosphatidyl-ethanolamine and phosphatidyl-serine deacylation products]. The water-methanol phase products obtained by slight alkali deacylation of a phosphatidyl-ethanolamine and phosphatidyl serine mixture, reveal a higher specific anticoagulating activity than the base mix. In the composition of the water-methanol phase glycerin, serine, ethanolamine, phosphoryl-serine, phosphoryl-ethanolamine, glyceryl-phosphoryl-ethanolamine and glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine were detected by the method of thin-layer paper chromatography. The only substance, glycerly-phosphoryl-serine, possesses an inhibitory activity. Therefore, anticoagulative activity of phosphatidyl-serine is not connected with the presence of the fatty acid residue in its molecule, it is due to the glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine residue. The further glyceryl-phosphoryl-serine degradation is accompanied by the disappearance of the anticoagulative activity.", "PMID": 452125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9983", "title": "[Content of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in rat erythrocytes with hypoxia and administration of vitamin D preparations].", "content": "With acute hemic hypoxia a rise in the content of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in the rat erythrocytes is rather pronounced. Under conditions of acute hypoxia (hyprobaric) hypoxia, with a less gravity of hypoxic affection the content is considerabley higher than in normalcy. Daily administration of the vitamin D preparations significant doses to animals causes a gradual rise in the level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in erythrocytes. The rise is more intense under the effect of vitamin D2 alchol solution than with administration of videin, a protein complex of vitamin D3.", "contents": "[Content of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in rat erythrocytes with hypoxia and administration of vitamin D preparations]. With acute hemic hypoxia a rise in the content of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in the rat erythrocytes is rather pronounced. Under conditions of acute hypoxia (hyprobaric) hypoxia, with a less gravity of hypoxic affection the content is considerabley higher than in normalcy. Daily administration of the vitamin D preparations significant doses to animals causes a gradual rise in the level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in erythrocytes. The rise is more intense under the effect of vitamin D2 alchol solution than with administration of videin, a protein complex of vitamin D3.", "PMID": 452124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9984", "title": "[Quantitative determination of ceruloplasmin activity in rat tissues].", "content": "The suggested method consists in incubation of the homogenate of the tissue under study with a solution of 0.5% p-phenylene diamine hydrochloride. The forming stained products of the reaction are extracted with butanol. The extracts obtained is photometered at a wave of 582 nm. The activity of ceruloplasmin is expressed by arbitrary units per 1 mg of protein.", "contents": "[Quantitative determination of ceruloplasmin activity in rat tissues]. The suggested method consists in incubation of the homogenate of the tissue under study with a solution of 0.5% p-phenylene diamine hydrochloride. The forming stained products of the reaction are extracted with butanol. The extracts obtained is photometered at a wave of 582 nm. The activity of ceruloplasmin is expressed by arbitrary units per 1 mg of protein.", "PMID": 452130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9985", "title": "[Content of homocarnosine, gamma-amino butyric acid and histidine in brain tissue of different age normal rabbits and under hyperoxia].", "content": "The content of homocarnosine, gamma-amino butyric acid and histidine was studied in the brain of newborn, 1, 7, 14, 21 and 30-day rabbits in normalcy and under hyperoxia. For 30 days of the postnatal life the amount of peptide in the animal brain is 2.5, histidine 1.6, gamma-amino butyric acid--2.2 times as high. At the preconvulsive stage of oxygen poisoning the content of homocarnosine lowers sharply in the brain of rabbits of all age groups. The most considerable decrease is observed in the brain of 14, 21 and 30-day rabbits by 53, 60 and 85%, respectively. The content of gamma-amino butyric acid lowers only in the brain of 21 and 30-day animals by 39 and 47%, respectively; the content of histidine in these animals under hyperoxia, vice versa, increases by 10 and 25%.", "contents": "[Content of homocarnosine, gamma-amino butyric acid and histidine in brain tissue of different age normal rabbits and under hyperoxia]. The content of homocarnosine, gamma-amino butyric acid and histidine was studied in the brain of newborn, 1, 7, 14, 21 and 30-day rabbits in normalcy and under hyperoxia. For 30 days of the postnatal life the amount of peptide in the animal brain is 2.5, histidine 1.6, gamma-amino butyric acid--2.2 times as high. At the preconvulsive stage of oxygen poisoning the content of homocarnosine lowers sharply in the brain of rabbits of all age groups. The most considerable decrease is observed in the brain of 14, 21 and 30-day rabbits by 53, 60 and 85%, respectively. The content of gamma-amino butyric acid lowers only in the brain of 21 and 30-day animals by 39 and 47%, respectively; the content of histidine in these animals under hyperoxia, vice versa, increases by 10 and 25%.", "PMID": 452127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9986", "title": "[Effect of hydrocortisone on intensity of (3H)methionine incorporation into rat polyribosome and cytosol proteins in alloxan diabetes].", "content": "Alloxane diabetes decreases the intensity of [3H] methionine incorporation into total proteins of the liver cells polyribosomes and cytosol. Administration of hydrocortisone for seven days aggravate this disturbances and insulin injections level them. A combined administration of both hormones weakens the negative effect of hydrocortisone on the intensity of the amino acid incorporation and the glucose level in blood.", "contents": "[Effect of hydrocortisone on intensity of (3H)methionine incorporation into rat polyribosome and cytosol proteins in alloxan diabetes]. Alloxane diabetes decreases the intensity of [3H] methionine incorporation into total proteins of the liver cells polyribosomes and cytosol. Administration of hydrocortisone for seven days aggravate this disturbances and insulin injections level them. A combined administration of both hormones weakens the negative effect of hydrocortisone on the intensity of the amino acid incorporation and the glucose level in blood.", "PMID": 452129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9987", "title": "[Production of dry hemoglobin from erythrocytes of donor blood].", "content": "Parameters are developed for sublimation drying of hemoglobin 5-6% solutions obtained from erythrocytes of donor blood. Determination of methemoglonin concentration, oxygen-dissociation curves and studies in physiochemical and biological properties show that the hemoglobin obtained by the suggested method may be used for intravenous injection.", "contents": "[Production of dry hemoglobin from erythrocytes of donor blood]. Parameters are developed for sublimation drying of hemoglobin 5-6% solutions obtained from erythrocytes of donor blood. Determination of methemoglonin concentration, oxygen-dissociation curves and studies in physiochemical and biological properties show that the hemoglobin obtained by the suggested method may be used for intravenous injection.", "PMID": 452131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9988", "title": "[Glutamate decarboxylase activity in the central structures of the dog brain visual analyzer in the early period of postnatal ontogenesis].", "content": "In puppies the first day after birth the glutamate decarboxylase activity in all the studied structures of the brain visual analyzer is the same. On the 12-16th day of the postnatal development it is higher in the corpora bigemina anterior and in the lateral geniculate body than in the optic cortex. The level of GABA formation with pyridoxal-5-phosphate added in the corpora bigemina anterior and lateral geniculate body reaches its maximum on the 21st day of the postnatal development and in the optic cortex (field 17) at the age of three months. The highest amount of asparaginic asic with pyridoxal-5-phosphate added is formed in the optic cortex (field 17) by the 45th day of development and in the corpora bigemina anterior and geniculate body by the 90th day of life.", "contents": "[Glutamate decarboxylase activity in the central structures of the dog brain visual analyzer in the early period of postnatal ontogenesis]. In puppies the first day after birth the glutamate decarboxylase activity in all the studied structures of the brain visual analyzer is the same. On the 12-16th day of the postnatal development it is higher in the corpora bigemina anterior and in the lateral geniculate body than in the optic cortex. The level of GABA formation with pyridoxal-5-phosphate added in the corpora bigemina anterior and lateral geniculate body reaches its maximum on the 21st day of the postnatal development and in the optic cortex (field 17) at the age of three months. The highest amount of asparaginic asic with pyridoxal-5-phosphate added is formed in the optic cortex (field 17) by the 45th day of development and in the corpora bigemina anterior and geniculate body by the 90th day of life.", "PMID": 452126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9989", "title": "[Effect of vitamins on permeability of cells, mitochondria and lysosomes under conditions of graviation overloading].", "content": "The gravitaiton overloading causes in experimental animals a decrease in stability of erythrocytes to NaCl hypotonic solutions and liver mitochondria to the effect of triton X=100. Under these conditions permeability of erythrocytes and leucocytes membranes as well as of the liver and brain mitochondria increases for [14C] nicotinate, [35S] lipoate, riboflavin and flavin mononucleotide, the total activity and the activity of the unprecipitable protinase of the liver cell lysosomas rise. Hydrocortisone, pyruvate, ATP, water- and fatty-soluble vitamins in the in vivo and in vitro experiments weaken the effect of overloading on the stability and permeability of the structures under study. Vitamin E applied separately and in combination with vitamin B, flavin mononucleotide and nicotinamide is more effective in this respect.", "contents": "[Effect of vitamins on permeability of cells, mitochondria and lysosomes under conditions of graviation overloading]. The gravitaiton overloading causes in experimental animals a decrease in stability of erythrocytes to NaCl hypotonic solutions and liver mitochondria to the effect of triton X=100. Under these conditions permeability of erythrocytes and leucocytes membranes as well as of the liver and brain mitochondria increases for [14C] nicotinate, [35S] lipoate, riboflavin and flavin mononucleotide, the total activity and the activity of the unprecipitable protinase of the liver cell lysosomas rise. Hydrocortisone, pyruvate, ATP, water- and fatty-soluble vitamins in the in vivo and in vitro experiments weaken the effect of overloading on the stability and permeability of the structures under study. Vitamin E applied separately and in combination with vitamin B, flavin mononucleotide and nicotinamide is more effective in this respect.", "PMID": 452128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9990", "title": "[The results of overloading of the lower extremity during sports (author's transl)].", "content": "Nowadays an increasing number of persons have to interrupt their training in competitive or recreational sports because of injuries resulting from overloading of the musculoskeletal system. At least 60% of all athletes who consult a department of traumatology do so because of recurrent micro-trauma. Sixty to eighty percent of all sports injuries and sequelae of overloading are located in the lower limb. The typical results of overloading of the musculoskeletal system during sports are: Inflammation of tendinous insertions, myopathies, peritendinitis, stress fracture, destruction of hyaline cartilage. The commonest of these are insertion tendinitis and destruction of cartilage. This reflects the disproportion between the ultimate strength of the connective tissues, which varies between individuals, and the loads actually imposed during physical training. In the last 7 years (1971-77) we have operated on 1278 knee joints, 63% of which had suffered damage to the cartilage. The etiology, prophylaxis, and medical and surgical treatment of chondropathies are therefore discussed in detail. Careful coordination of the various rehabilitation measures is especially important if a satisfactory therapeutic result is to be achieved.", "contents": "[The results of overloading of the lower extremity during sports (author's transl)]. Nowadays an increasing number of persons have to interrupt their training in competitive or recreational sports because of injuries resulting from overloading of the musculoskeletal system. At least 60% of all athletes who consult a department of traumatology do so because of recurrent micro-trauma. Sixty to eighty percent of all sports injuries and sequelae of overloading are located in the lower limb. The typical results of overloading of the musculoskeletal system during sports are: Inflammation of tendinous insertions, myopathies, peritendinitis, stress fracture, destruction of hyaline cartilage. The commonest of these are insertion tendinitis and destruction of cartilage. This reflects the disproportion between the ultimate strength of the connective tissues, which varies between individuals, and the loads actually imposed during physical training. In the last 7 years (1971-77) we have operated on 1278 knee joints, 63% of which had suffered damage to the cartilage. The etiology, prophylaxis, and medical and surgical treatment of chondropathies are therefore discussed in detail. Careful coordination of the various rehabilitation measures is especially important if a satisfactory therapeutic result is to be achieved.", "PMID": 452163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9991", "title": "Modification by dipyrone (noramidopyrine methanesulphonate) of stone-induced ureteric hyperperistalsis in the dog.", "content": "Implantation of a stone in the ureter of the dog by ureterotomy results in focal hyperperistalsis which is accentuated by administration of norepinephrine, and reduced by administration of phenoxybenzamine or isoproterenol. Administration of dipyrone reduces the hyperperistalsis, but this action does not appear to be that of either a beta-agonist of an alpha-antagonist.", "contents": "Modification by dipyrone (noramidopyrine methanesulphonate) of stone-induced ureteric hyperperistalsis in the dog. Implantation of a stone in the ureter of the dog by ureterotomy results in focal hyperperistalsis which is accentuated by administration of norepinephrine, and reduced by administration of phenoxybenzamine or isoproterenol. Administration of dipyrone reduces the hyperperistalsis, but this action does not appear to be that of either a beta-agonist of an alpha-antagonist.", "PMID": 452178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9992", "title": "Alloplastic replacement of the partially resected canine urethra by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts. Preliminary results.", "content": "In 12 male dogs 3-8 cm of the penile urethra were resected and replaced by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (GORE-TEX) grafts. Follow-up consisted of periodic urethrograms. Maximum observation time has been 12 months. Up to now, no major complications were noted. Tissue reactions were minimal and patency of all grafts was demonstrated during the follow-up period.", "contents": "Alloplastic replacement of the partially resected canine urethra by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts. Preliminary results. In 12 male dogs 3-8 cm of the penile urethra were resected and replaced by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (GORE-TEX) grafts. Follow-up consisted of periodic urethrograms. Maximum observation time has been 12 months. Up to now, no major complications were noted. Tissue reactions were minimal and patency of all grafts was demonstrated during the follow-up period.", "PMID": 452179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9993", "title": "Ureterosigmoidostomy in rats: a model for the study of bladder tumour carcinogenesis and cocarcinogenesis.", "content": "A modified Coffey I ureterosigmoidostomy has been developed in rats as a model of urinary diversion for studying bladder carcinogenesis and co-carcinogenesis. Diverted and sham-operated animals were killed at 1, 3 and 6 months. Excretory urograms revealed minimal hydroureteronephrosis in most diverted animals. Upper tract bacterial colonisation was 9 times more frequent in diverted animals. Approximately one-third of the diverted animals had focal cortical scarring; however, renal function was normal in all groups as assessed by serum creatinine and electrolytes. These studies indicate that ureterosigmoidostomy in rats is a satisfactory model of urinary diversion for studying carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Ureterosigmoidostomy in rats: a model for the study of bladder tumour carcinogenesis and cocarcinogenesis. A modified Coffey I ureterosigmoidostomy has been developed in rats as a model of urinary diversion for studying bladder carcinogenesis and co-carcinogenesis. Diverted and sham-operated animals were killed at 1, 3 and 6 months. Excretory urograms revealed minimal hydroureteronephrosis in most diverted animals. Upper tract bacterial colonisation was 9 times more frequent in diverted animals. Approximately one-third of the diverted animals had focal cortical scarring; however, renal function was normal in all groups as assessed by serum creatinine and electrolytes. These studies indicate that ureterosigmoidostomy in rats is a satisfactory model of urinary diversion for studying carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 452180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9994", "title": "Uromucoid excretion in normal subjects, calcium stone formers and in patients with chronic renal failure.", "content": "Using an electroimmunoassay technique for uromucoid in urine, the excretion of this protein has been studied in normal subjects, calcium stone formers and in patients with chronic renal failure. In the normal subjects there was no significant difference in daily excretion between males and females, but a positive correlation with urine volume was demonstrated for this group. No significant difference in daily uromucoid excretion was found between normal and stone forming subjects. In the presence of chronic renal failure uromucoid excretion was found to be reduced and correlated with overall renal function as assessed by creatinine clearance.", "contents": "Uromucoid excretion in normal subjects, calcium stone formers and in patients with chronic renal failure. Using an electroimmunoassay technique for uromucoid in urine, the excretion of this protein has been studied in normal subjects, calcium stone formers and in patients with chronic renal failure. In the normal subjects there was no significant difference in daily excretion between males and females, but a positive correlation with urine volume was demonstrated for this group. No significant difference in daily uromucoid excretion was found between normal and stone forming subjects. In the presence of chronic renal failure uromucoid excretion was found to be reduced and correlated with overall renal function as assessed by creatinine clearance.", "PMID": 452181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9995", "title": "[Comparative studies of radioisotope uroflowmetry (author's transl)].", "content": "Radioisotope uroflowmetry allows continuous recording of urinary stream with determination of maximum and mean urine flow rate, duration of voiding and residual urine without urethral catheterisation. By the aid of twenty simulated tests and nine examinated patients the precision of this method was investigated by comparing our results with the findings of simultaneously recorded mictiographic measurement. The flow curves and the maximum flow rate show a high correlation.", "contents": "[Comparative studies of radioisotope uroflowmetry (author's transl)]. Radioisotope uroflowmetry allows continuous recording of urinary stream with determination of maximum and mean urine flow rate, duration of voiding and residual urine without urethral catheterisation. By the aid of twenty simulated tests and nine examinated patients the precision of this method was investigated by comparing our results with the findings of simultaneously recorded mictiographic measurement. The flow curves and the maximum flow rate show a high correlation.", "PMID": 452183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9996", "title": "[Problems in diagnosis and therapy of renal adenomas (author's transl)].", "content": "Diagnostic and surgical problems of renal adenoma are discussed on the basis of seven own cases and the literature. The surgical procedure should be based on exact histomorphological classification of the tumors, which can be classified as: \"Benign adenoma\", \"adenoma with questionable malignancy\", and \"Malignant degenerated adenoma\". The often recommended radical surgery in all cases of renal adenomas should not be necessary. Histological diagnosis is most accurate with serial sections of embedded tumor material. False positive results from intraoperative histomorphologic diagnosis of frozen sections are not here. The difficult preoperative diagnosis of renal adenomas could be improved by computed tomography and ultrasonography.", "contents": "[Problems in diagnosis and therapy of renal adenomas (author's transl)]. Diagnostic and surgical problems of renal adenoma are discussed on the basis of seven own cases and the literature. The surgical procedure should be based on exact histomorphological classification of the tumors, which can be classified as: \"Benign adenoma\", \"adenoma with questionable malignancy\", and \"Malignant degenerated adenoma\". The often recommended radical surgery in all cases of renal adenomas should not be necessary. Histological diagnosis is most accurate with serial sections of embedded tumor material. False positive results from intraoperative histomorphologic diagnosis of frozen sections are not here. The difficult preoperative diagnosis of renal adenomas could be improved by computed tomography and ultrasonography.", "PMID": 452185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9997", "title": "[Implantation of testicular prosthesis. Psychological aspects (author's transl)].", "content": "The crucial factor in assessing the indication for implantation of a testis prosthesis is the mental status of the patient. Age and psychosocial considerations must be taken into account. The susceptibility to disturbance following of the loss of a testis differs among individuals. Most of the commercially available products can hardly be distinguished from a normal testis. The findings of a questionnaire in 88 patients with 106 prostheses are presented, according to which substitution of the testis with a prosthesis is not a superfluous therapeutic procedure. The man suffering from his \"incompleteness\" will be glad to have the implant if it restores to him the feeling of genital intactness. The practicing urologist assesses the indications and answers the questions resulting from emotional and psychic aspects of sexuality. The surgeon selects the appropriate implant and decides on the route of access and type of implantation.", "contents": "[Implantation of testicular prosthesis. Psychological aspects (author's transl)]. The crucial factor in assessing the indication for implantation of a testis prosthesis is the mental status of the patient. Age and psychosocial considerations must be taken into account. The susceptibility to disturbance following of the loss of a testis differs among individuals. Most of the commercially available products can hardly be distinguished from a normal testis. The findings of a questionnaire in 88 patients with 106 prostheses are presented, according to which substitution of the testis with a prosthesis is not a superfluous therapeutic procedure. The man suffering from his \"incompleteness\" will be glad to have the implant if it restores to him the feeling of genital intactness. The practicing urologist assesses the indications and answers the questions resulting from emotional and psychic aspects of sexuality. The surgeon selects the appropriate implant and decides on the route of access and type of implantation.", "PMID": 452186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9998", "title": "[Percutaneous nephrostomy under ultrasound guidance (author's transl)].", "content": "34 ultrasonically guided percutaneous nephrostomies were performed without complications. The procedure seems to be applicable in routine clinical use for temporary or permanent urine diversion in hydronephrotic kidneys. The simple technique the low complication and high success rate and independence of kidney function make the technique superior to the standard methods of the percutaneous puncture under radiological control.", "contents": "[Percutaneous nephrostomy under ultrasound guidance (author's transl)]. 34 ultrasonically guided percutaneous nephrostomies were performed without complications. The procedure seems to be applicable in routine clinical use for temporary or permanent urine diversion in hydronephrotic kidneys. The simple technique the low complication and high success rate and independence of kidney function make the technique superior to the standard methods of the percutaneous puncture under radiological control.", "PMID": 452187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_9999", "title": "[Ureteral drainage with the Gibbons indwelling ureteral stent (author's transl)].", "content": "The technique of endoscopically placing the Gibbons indwelling stent into the obstructed ureter is described. This technique offers several advantages, especially in managing poor-risk patients whose ureters are obstructed: 1. endoscopic placement of the ureteral stent is associated with less morbidity and mortality than supravesical diversion; 2. quality of life is much less reduced than in supravesical diversion; 3. it is readily reversible; 4 the ureteral stent does not interfere with subsequent operation and offers several advantages over PVC-splints and other materials used for long term ureteral drainage. The placement of an indwelling stent sometimes causes technical problems but complications are rare. 21 Gibbons indwelling ureteral stents have been placed in obstructed ureters of 16 patients at the age of 25--74 years. Our technique, indications, results and complications are described herein.", "contents": "[Ureteral drainage with the Gibbons indwelling ureteral stent (author's transl)]. The technique of endoscopically placing the Gibbons indwelling stent into the obstructed ureter is described. This technique offers several advantages, especially in managing poor-risk patients whose ureters are obstructed: 1. endoscopic placement of the ureteral stent is associated with less morbidity and mortality than supravesical diversion; 2. quality of life is much less reduced than in supravesical diversion; 3. it is readily reversible; 4 the ureteral stent does not interfere with subsequent operation and offers several advantages over PVC-splints and other materials used for long term ureteral drainage. The placement of an indwelling stent sometimes causes technical problems but complications are rare. 21 Gibbons indwelling ureteral stents have been placed in obstructed ureters of 16 patients at the age of 25--74 years. Our technique, indications, results and complications are described herein.", "PMID": 452188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10000", "title": "[The application of video techniques in urology (author's transl)].", "content": "Above all Videosystems have valuable applications in transurethral surgery for students, housestaff and established physicians in that they allow for better documentation and communication. This article describes a handy, inexpensive color T. V. camera which, though one of the smallest and lightest, produces good quality pictures. The paper also describes various applications of such a system.", "contents": "[The application of video techniques in urology (author's transl)]. Above all Videosystems have valuable applications in transurethral surgery for students, housestaff and established physicians in that they allow for better documentation and communication. This article describes a handy, inexpensive color T. V. camera which, though one of the smallest and lightest, produces good quality pictures. The paper also describes various applications of such a system.", "PMID": 452189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10001", "title": "[Proposal for surgical treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis (author's transl)].", "content": "A new method of surgical treatment for retroperitoneal fibrosis is demonstrated on 3 patients. 31 months postoperatively the results are excellent. The operation is easy to perform, without complications and recurrences.", "contents": "[Proposal for surgical treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis (author's transl)]. A new method of surgical treatment for retroperitoneal fibrosis is demonstrated on 3 patients. 31 months postoperatively the results are excellent. The operation is easy to perform, without complications and recurrences.", "PMID": 452190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10002", "title": "[Scanning electron microscopy of different materials after urine contact in vitro (author's transl)].", "content": "The nature of the surface of the used material is determining the complication rate in medium and long term application of nephrostomy and bladder catheters as well as ureteral splints. Tubings made of 8 different materials were irrigated for one to three weeks by means of an urolithic simulator, the pH-values from 5.8 to 7.0. Scanning electron Microscope showed good values with respect to silicon elastomer, teflon and ethylenacrylicacid copolymer. Considering technical and economical factors it seems to be proven that silicon elastomer and polyurethane are the most appropriate materials for splints and catheters, whereas rubber and PVC are less suitable for long time application.", "contents": "[Scanning electron microscopy of different materials after urine contact in vitro (author's transl)]. The nature of the surface of the used material is determining the complication rate in medium and long term application of nephrostomy and bladder catheters as well as ureteral splints. Tubings made of 8 different materials were irrigated for one to three weeks by means of an urolithic simulator, the pH-values from 5.8 to 7.0. Scanning electron Microscope showed good values with respect to silicon elastomer, teflon and ethylenacrylicacid copolymer. Considering technical and economical factors it seems to be proven that silicon elastomer and polyurethane are the most appropriate materials for splints and catheters, whereas rubber and PVC are less suitable for long time application.", "PMID": 452191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10003", "title": "Stage A2 prostatic carcinoma: should staging system be reclassified?", "content": "Seventy patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma were studied for histologic differentiation of primary tumor and the incidence of lymph node metastasis. Also the urologic literature was reviewed regarding the survival of such patients under similar treatment. The results indicate that clinically staged A2 tumors are more aggressive biologically than tumors staged as B1, reaffirming the need for a change in the current staging system. The authors propose reclassification of clinically unsuspected, diffuse carcinoma from the A to the B2 stage.", "contents": "Stage A2 prostatic carcinoma: should staging system be reclassified? Seventy patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma were studied for histologic differentiation of primary tumor and the incidence of lymph node metastasis. Also the urologic literature was reviewed regarding the survival of such patients under similar treatment. The results indicate that clinically staged A2 tumors are more aggressive biologically than tumors staged as B1, reaffirming the need for a change in the current staging system. The authors propose reclassification of clinically unsuspected, diffuse carcinoma from the A to the B2 stage.", "PMID": 452192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10004", "title": "Adenocarcinoma of prostate: role of 17beta-estradiol and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone binding proteins.", "content": "Presence of a specific 17 beta-estradiol-binding protein in prostates of patients with adenocarcinoma without hormonal manipulation prior to surgical resection has been reported by us earlier. The present study involves 40 patients with carcinoma of prostate analyzed during the period December, 1974, through June, 1978. Thirty-four patients had metastatic disease, 26 of these were manipulated hormonally after and 8 prior to receptor protein assay. The other 6 were in clinical Stage C and were subjected to transurethral resection alone. The study confirms our earlier report and outlines the role of 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and possibly 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) receptor protein in hormonally responsive and refractory patients. Based on the preliminary findings it seems possible to classify the prostatic carcinoma similar to human mammary cancer for the purpose of selecting patients for endocrine manipulation or treatment with other available modalities.", "contents": "Adenocarcinoma of prostate: role of 17beta-estradiol and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone binding proteins. Presence of a specific 17 beta-estradiol-binding protein in prostates of patients with adenocarcinoma without hormonal manipulation prior to surgical resection has been reported by us earlier. The present study involves 40 patients with carcinoma of prostate analyzed during the period December, 1974, through June, 1978. Thirty-four patients had metastatic disease, 26 of these were manipulated hormonally after and 8 prior to receptor protein assay. The other 6 were in clinical Stage C and were subjected to transurethral resection alone. The study confirms our earlier report and outlines the role of 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and possibly 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) receptor protein in hormonally responsive and refractory patients. Based on the preliminary findings it seems possible to classify the prostatic carcinoma similar to human mammary cancer for the purpose of selecting patients for endocrine manipulation or treatment with other available modalities.", "PMID": 452193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10005", "title": "Necrotizing fasciitis of genitalia.", "content": "A review of 12 patients with necrotizing fasciitis of the genitalia is presented. All patients had rapidly progressing cellulitis and necrosis of the fascia caused by a combination of various organisms, most frequently by Escherichia coli. Beta streptococcus, which is generally thought to be the causative organism in these cases, was present in only 4 patients. Management consisted of extensive surgical debridement, urinary and/or fecal diversion, antibiotics, and necessary reconstructive procedures.", "contents": "Necrotizing fasciitis of genitalia. A review of 12 patients with necrotizing fasciitis of the genitalia is presented. All patients had rapidly progressing cellulitis and necrosis of the fascia caused by a combination of various organisms, most frequently by Escherichia coli. Beta streptococcus, which is generally thought to be the causative organism in these cases, was present in only 4 patients. Management consisted of extensive surgical debridement, urinary and/or fecal diversion, antibiotics, and necessary reconstructive procedures.", "PMID": 452194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10006", "title": "Changing concepts in management of pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma in children.", "content": "Survival with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of all sites has improved dramatically in recent years with the increased use of long-term, cyclic, multidrug chemotherapy. Protocols have been established and are currently being evaluated by the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study. The management of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the pelvic viscera, though, remains troublesome. Limited surgical excision is rarely possible and high-dose radiotherapy to the bony pelvis may cause severe and disabling growth disorders. Yet, survival with these lesions is increasing as with rhabdomyosarcoma from all sites and is directly related to a well-planned and aggressive multidisciplinary program. We have seen 12 cases of pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma within the last seventeen years at this institution. These cases will be reviewed in regard to varying modes of therapy and survival. Our current therapeutic approach, based on national and local experience, will be presented.", "contents": "Changing concepts in management of pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma in children. Survival with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of all sites has improved dramatically in recent years with the increased use of long-term, cyclic, multidrug chemotherapy. Protocols have been established and are currently being evaluated by the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study. The management of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the pelvic viscera, though, remains troublesome. Limited surgical excision is rarely possible and high-dose radiotherapy to the bony pelvis may cause severe and disabling growth disorders. Yet, survival with these lesions is increasing as with rhabdomyosarcoma from all sites and is directly related to a well-planned and aggressive multidisciplinary program. We have seen 12 cases of pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma within the last seventeen years at this institution. These cases will be reviewed in regard to varying modes of therapy and survival. Our current therapeutic approach, based on national and local experience, will be presented.", "PMID": 452195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10007", "title": "Reversible upper tract dilatation with ileal conduit stomal ulceration or encrustation.", "content": "Six pediatric patients with progressive upper tract dilatation were noted to have stomal encrustation and ulceration. In all cases, the upper tract dilatation subsided with effective conservative treatment of the stomal lesion thus obviating surgical revision of the stoma.", "contents": "Reversible upper tract dilatation with ileal conduit stomal ulceration or encrustation. Six pediatric patients with progressive upper tract dilatation were noted to have stomal encrustation and ulceration. In all cases, the upper tract dilatation subsided with effective conservative treatment of the stomal lesion thus obviating surgical revision of the stoma.", "PMID": 452196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10008", "title": "Leaking left hypogastric artery aneurysm causing bilateral ureteric obstruction.", "content": "A pelvic hematoma arising from a leaking left hypogastric aneurysm resulted in the acute onset of bilateral flank pain and bilateral ureteral obstruction in a sixty-four-year-old black man. Intravenous pyelogram revealed a pelvic hematoma with narrowing of both lower ureters, hydroureteronephrosis, and anterior bladder displacement. Cystoscopy revealed anterior displacement of the bladder base which appeared pulsatile. Arteriography confirmed the leaking hypogastric aneurysm, and successful surgical ligation was performed.", "contents": "Leaking left hypogastric artery aneurysm causing bilateral ureteric obstruction. A pelvic hematoma arising from a leaking left hypogastric aneurysm resulted in the acute onset of bilateral flank pain and bilateral ureteral obstruction in a sixty-four-year-old black man. Intravenous pyelogram revealed a pelvic hematoma with narrowing of both lower ureters, hydroureteronephrosis, and anterior bladder displacement. Cystoscopy revealed anterior displacement of the bladder base which appeared pulsatile. Arteriography confirmed the leaking hypogastric aneurysm, and successful surgical ligation was performed.", "PMID": 452197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10009", "title": "Ureteral colic secondary to blood clot in hemophiliac.", "content": "Cryoprecipitate therapy replaces necessary clotting factors in a patient with factor VIII deficient hemophilia. In such a patient with hematuria, cryoprecipitate therapy can initiate the formation of a massive blood clot in the urinary collecting system. A case is reported of a factor VIII-deficient hemophiliac in whom ureteral colic and poor function of the right kidney developed because of a blood clot formed shortly after cryoprecipitate therapy.", "contents": "Ureteral colic secondary to blood clot in hemophiliac. Cryoprecipitate therapy replaces necessary clotting factors in a patient with factor VIII deficient hemophilia. In such a patient with hematuria, cryoprecipitate therapy can initiate the formation of a massive blood clot in the urinary collecting system. A case is reported of a factor VIII-deficient hemophiliac in whom ureteral colic and poor function of the right kidney developed because of a blood clot formed shortly after cryoprecipitate therapy.", "PMID": 452198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10010", "title": "Adjuvant chemotherapy in renal leiomyosarcoma.", "content": "Our encounter with a patient with renal leiomyosarcoma prompted a survey of the world literature in which 84 cases were found. The use of chemotherapy after nephrectomy is advocated since our patient survived more than four years without metastases. The rationale for our chemotherapeutic protocol is discussed.", "contents": "Adjuvant chemotherapy in renal leiomyosarcoma. Our encounter with a patient with renal leiomyosarcoma prompted a survey of the world literature in which 84 cases were found. The use of chemotherapy after nephrectomy is advocated since our patient survived more than four years without metastases. The rationale for our chemotherapeutic protocol is discussed.", "PMID": 452199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10011", "title": "Multiple primary prostate cancer.", "content": "Although increasing reports are noted of apparent endometrial carcinoma of prostatic origin, the controversy is present of the actual existence of such an entity. The association of papillary prostatic cancer (endometrial or ductal) with the typical microacinar variety has also been previously presented. This report is an account of 2 cases of multiple prostatic primary tumors. The first case is the twelfth reported case of endometrial (utricular) carcinoma not only simultaneously associated with microacinar type carcinoma, but also with a previous transitional carcinoma of the urinary bladder. The second case is a papillary carcinoma and associated microacinar type with the papillary component responding dramatically to chemotherapy. Significant aspects of interest in this case include the site of papillary metastasis to the lungs, elevated estrogen levels with normalization after treatment, and finally response to chemotherapy.", "contents": "Multiple primary prostate cancer. Although increasing reports are noted of apparent endometrial carcinoma of prostatic origin, the controversy is present of the actual existence of such an entity. The association of papillary prostatic cancer (endometrial or ductal) with the typical microacinar variety has also been previously presented. This report is an account of 2 cases of multiple prostatic primary tumors. The first case is the twelfth reported case of endometrial (utricular) carcinoma not only simultaneously associated with microacinar type carcinoma, but also with a previous transitional carcinoma of the urinary bladder. The second case is a papillary carcinoma and associated microacinar type with the papillary component responding dramatically to chemotherapy. Significant aspects of interest in this case include the site of papillary metastasis to the lungs, elevated estrogen levels with normalization after treatment, and finally response to chemotherapy.", "PMID": 452201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10012", "title": "Angiomatous lymphoid hamartoma or pseudolymphoma of pelvic retroperitoneum: clinical significance and evaluation of pelvic ureter.", "content": "Angiomatous lymphoid hamartomas or pseudolymphomas have been reported most commonly within the chest and usually are mistaken for thymic tumors of lymphomatous tissue. Pelvic retroperitoneal location, to our knowledge, has been described only on three occasions. Only a high index of suspicion can make one recognize this rare lesion and save unnecessary radical surgery and/or radiation therapy. Removal of the mass led to dissappearance of associated systemic manifestations in many of the patients.", "contents": "Angiomatous lymphoid hamartoma or pseudolymphoma of pelvic retroperitoneum: clinical significance and evaluation of pelvic ureter. Angiomatous lymphoid hamartomas or pseudolymphomas have been reported most commonly within the chest and usually are mistaken for thymic tumors of lymphomatous tissue. Pelvic retroperitoneal location, to our knowledge, has been described only on three occasions. Only a high index of suspicion can make one recognize this rare lesion and save unnecessary radical surgery and/or radiation therapy. Removal of the mass led to dissappearance of associated systemic manifestations in many of the patients.", "PMID": 452203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10013", "title": "Urodynamic evaluation as neurologic test of sacral cord function.", "content": "The use of urodynamic evaluation as a diagnostic tool for evaluating subtle neurologic lesions involving the second, third, and fourth segments of the sacral spinal cord is redefined. Six illustrative cases are presented.", "contents": "Urodynamic evaluation as neurologic test of sacral cord function. The use of urodynamic evaluation as a diagnostic tool for evaluating subtle neurologic lesions involving the second, third, and fourth segments of the sacral spinal cord is redefined. Six illustrative cases are presented.", "PMID": 452204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10014", "title": "Preoperative renal embolization as adjunct to radical nephrectomy.", "content": "Radical nephrectomy preceded by preoperative renal artery embolization using Gianturco-Anderson-Wallace steel coils has objective value as determined by comparing records of 15 patients who had adjunctive embolization with 15 patients who did not. Embolization of the major renal artery facilitated surgery allowing initial renal vein ligation resulting in reduction of blood loss and operative time. The described experience and current literature review support adjunctive embolization and document minimal risk to the patient.", "contents": "Preoperative renal embolization as adjunct to radical nephrectomy. Radical nephrectomy preceded by preoperative renal artery embolization using Gianturco-Anderson-Wallace steel coils has objective value as determined by comparing records of 15 patients who had adjunctive embolization with 15 patients who did not. Embolization of the major renal artery facilitated surgery allowing initial renal vein ligation resulting in reduction of blood loss and operative time. The described experience and current literature review support adjunctive embolization and document minimal risk to the patient.", "PMID": 452206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10015", "title": "Cystometry in upright position: accurate identification of decompensated bladder.", "content": "Cystometrograms obtained in the physiologic erect position have been found to picture accurately the classic decompensated bladder in women with recurrent urinary tract infections. The standard supine cystometrogram, however, may be inaccurate or normal in females with a history of infrequent voiding and prolonged vesical overdistention.", "contents": "Cystometry in upright position: accurate identification of decompensated bladder. Cystometrograms obtained in the physiologic erect position have been found to picture accurately the classic decompensated bladder in women with recurrent urinary tract infections. The standard supine cystometrogram, however, may be inaccurate or normal in females with a history of infrequent voiding and prolonged vesical overdistention.", "PMID": 452207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10016", "title": "Some characteristics of recurrent calcium stone formers in Puerto Rico.", "content": "We have studied 83 patients with recurrent calcium stone formation in an attempt to determine an approximate incidence of metabolic disturbances associated with stone disease. Male veterans (n = 42), male non-veterans (n = 13), and women (n = 28) composed the group. We divided the groups in such fashion because they represented generally two distinct socioeconomic groups. Primary hyperparathyroidism was present in 19 per cent of the subjects; a marked predominance of women (15/16) was noted. Hypercalciuria of renal or intestinal origin was present in 23 per cent of the group. Of interest was a group of male veterans (17/83) in whom normocalciuria, normocalcemia, and normal serum phosphate were associated with high values of immunoreactive parathyroid hormone. These subjects had low urine phosphate. This set of findings indicates that these patients may be a new subgroup of stone-forming patients. Metabolic abnormalities could not be detected in 38 per cent of the patients. Classification of stone subjects is essential for rational management.", "contents": "Some characteristics of recurrent calcium stone formers in Puerto Rico. We have studied 83 patients with recurrent calcium stone formation in an attempt to determine an approximate incidence of metabolic disturbances associated with stone disease. Male veterans (n = 42), male non-veterans (n = 13), and women (n = 28) composed the group. We divided the groups in such fashion because they represented generally two distinct socioeconomic groups. Primary hyperparathyroidism was present in 19 per cent of the subjects; a marked predominance of women (15/16) was noted. Hypercalciuria of renal or intestinal origin was present in 23 per cent of the group. Of interest was a group of male veterans (17/83) in whom normocalciuria, normocalcemia, and normal serum phosphate were associated with high values of immunoreactive parathyroid hormone. These subjects had low urine phosphate. This set of findings indicates that these patients may be a new subgroup of stone-forming patients. Metabolic abnormalities could not be detected in 38 per cent of the patients. Classification of stone subjects is essential for rational management.", "PMID": 452211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10017", "title": "Primary carcinoma of ureter. Report of 27 new cases.", "content": "A retrospective analysis of 27 cases of primary carcinoma of the ureter is presented. The ages of the patients ranged from forty-two to eighty-three years, with the highest incidence between the fifth and seventh decades. Males were more frequently affected than females, and the tumors were usually found in the lower third of the ureter. Hematuria and flank pain were the presenting symptoms in the majority of cases. Poorly differentiated invasive tumors had poor prognosis when compared to well-differentiated noninvasive lesions. Total nephroureterectomy with excision of bladder cuff is the preferred treatment for ureteral carcinoma in view of the high rate of ipsilateral tumor recurrence.", "contents": "Primary carcinoma of ureter. Report of 27 new cases. A retrospective analysis of 27 cases of primary carcinoma of the ureter is presented. The ages of the patients ranged from forty-two to eighty-three years, with the highest incidence between the fifth and seventh decades. Males were more frequently affected than females, and the tumors were usually found in the lower third of the ureter. Hematuria and flank pain were the presenting symptoms in the majority of cases. Poorly differentiated invasive tumors had poor prognosis when compared to well-differentiated noninvasive lesions. Total nephroureterectomy with excision of bladder cuff is the preferred treatment for ureteral carcinoma in view of the high rate of ipsilateral tumor recurrence.", "PMID": 452212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10018", "title": "Double pigtail ureteral stent.", "content": "Problems encountered in patients with ureteral obstruction treated with single pigtail polyethylene ureteral catheters (stents) were largely due to positioning difficulties, proximal migration, and irritation of the bladder mucosa by the distal flange. A new, double pigtail modification of this self-retained internal stent limits migration, minimizes irritant side effects, and facilitates endoscopic, percutaneous, and open surgical positioning over a springwire guide. These stents provide useful alternative to surgical correction or external tube diversion in many patients with complicated ureteral obstruction.", "contents": "Double pigtail ureteral stent. Problems encountered in patients with ureteral obstruction treated with single pigtail polyethylene ureteral catheters (stents) were largely due to positioning difficulties, proximal migration, and irritation of the bladder mucosa by the distal flange. A new, double pigtail modification of this self-retained internal stent limits migration, minimizes irritant side effects, and facilitates endoscopic, percutaneous, and open surgical positioning over a springwire guide. These stents provide useful alternative to surgical correction or external tube diversion in many patients with complicated ureteral obstruction.", "PMID": 452213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10019", "title": "Pleural effusion secondary to ureteral obstruction.", "content": "Urinary tract obstruction may produce a pleural effusion detectable by chest x-ray film. This uncommon finding must be differentiated from intrathoracic and intraperitoneal causes of pleural effusion, including intrathoracic metastases when a malignant tumor is the cause of the urinary tract obstruction.", "contents": "Pleural effusion secondary to ureteral obstruction. Urinary tract obstruction may produce a pleural effusion detectable by chest x-ray film. This uncommon finding must be differentiated from intrathoracic and intraperitoneal causes of pleural effusion, including intrathoracic metastases when a malignant tumor is the cause of the urinary tract obstruction.", "PMID": 452214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10020", "title": "Spontaneous extravasation of urine in chronic ureteric obstruction.", "content": "Two cases of spontaneous extravasation of urine in chronic ureteric obstruction are presented. In 1 case the long-standing partial ureteric obstruction was caused by enlarged lymphomatous glands, and extravasation was followed by a perinephric abscess. In the second case, believed to be unique, there was a moderate chronic ureteric obstruction post irradiation, and extravasation was induced by a sudden rise in intra-abdominal pressure due to vomiting.", "contents": "Spontaneous extravasation of urine in chronic ureteric obstruction. Two cases of spontaneous extravasation of urine in chronic ureteric obstruction are presented. In 1 case the long-standing partial ureteric obstruction was caused by enlarged lymphomatous glands, and extravasation was followed by a perinephric abscess. In the second case, believed to be unique, there was a moderate chronic ureteric obstruction post irradiation, and extravasation was induced by a sudden rise in intra-abdominal pressure due to vomiting.", "PMID": 452215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10021", "title": "Review of neurogenic bladder in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Neurologic involvement of the urinary bladder and urethral sphincter in multiple sclerosis has been known for some time. Thirty-one patients with a proved diagnosis of multiple sclerosis were evaluated urologically for symptoms of urinary incontinence, retention, or urinary tract infection. On initial presentation, 27 (74 per cent) were found to have neurogenic bladders of which 23 (85 per cent) were of the uninhibited type. Electromyography of the periurethral striated muscle revealed vesicosphincter incoordination in 9 of the 19 patients studied. Approximately one-half of the patients with uninhibited bladders had uncoordinated sphincters. Modalities of treatment are discussed.", "contents": "Review of neurogenic bladder in multiple sclerosis. Neurologic involvement of the urinary bladder and urethral sphincter in multiple sclerosis has been known for some time. Thirty-one patients with a proved diagnosis of multiple sclerosis were evaluated urologically for symptoms of urinary incontinence, retention, or urinary tract infection. On initial presentation, 27 (74 per cent) were found to have neurogenic bladders of which 23 (85 per cent) were of the uninhibited type. Electromyography of the periurethral striated muscle revealed vesicosphincter incoordination in 9 of the 19 patients studied. Approximately one-half of the patients with uninhibited bladders had uncoordinated sphincters. Modalities of treatment are discussed.", "PMID": 452216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10022", "title": "Another look at torsion of testis.", "content": "A retrospective review was done of all patients who had been discharged with a diagnosis of testicular torsion from 1967 to 1977. Multiple staff physicians were involved at the Milwaukee Children's Hospital. Incidence, age, presenting symptoms, and testicular survival were compared with previous reports in the literature. A 69 per cent testicular survival from torsion of the testis is a marked improvement over other series. Some suggestions for other diagnostic and therapeutic acids are mentioned.", "contents": "Another look at torsion of testis. A retrospective review was done of all patients who had been discharged with a diagnosis of testicular torsion from 1967 to 1977. Multiple staff physicians were involved at the Milwaukee Children's Hospital. Incidence, age, presenting symptoms, and testicular survival were compared with previous reports in the literature. A 69 per cent testicular survival from torsion of the testis is a marked improvement over other series. Some suggestions for other diagnostic and therapeutic acids are mentioned.", "PMID": 452217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10023", "title": "Leydig cell tumor of testis.", "content": "In adult patients with Leydig cell tumor of the testis, endocrinologic signs occur in 30 per cent of the cases and often precede the onset of a palpable testicular mass. Gynecomastia is the most common endocrinologic manifestation and probably is due to increased estrogen secretion by the Leydig cells. In the patient with adrenogenital syndrome and testicular enlargement it is difficult to distinguish Leydig cell tumor from adrenal rest hypertrophy. Four patients with Leydig cell tumor and endocrinologic manifestations are discussed; three are adults who presented with gynecomastia and the fourth is a patient with congenital adrenogenital syndrome. In the adult patient inguinal orchiectomy is the treatment of choice, while in the patient with adrenogenital syndrome initial management by high-dose steroid suppression should be attempted prior to testicular exploration.", "contents": "Leydig cell tumor of testis. In adult patients with Leydig cell tumor of the testis, endocrinologic signs occur in 30 per cent of the cases and often precede the onset of a palpable testicular mass. Gynecomastia is the most common endocrinologic manifestation and probably is due to increased estrogen secretion by the Leydig cells. In the patient with adrenogenital syndrome and testicular enlargement it is difficult to distinguish Leydig cell tumor from adrenal rest hypertrophy. Four patients with Leydig cell tumor and endocrinologic manifestations are discussed; three are adults who presented with gynecomastia and the fourth is a patient with congenital adrenogenital syndrome. In the adult patient inguinal orchiectomy is the treatment of choice, while in the patient with adrenogenital syndrome initial management by high-dose steroid suppression should be attempted prior to testicular exploration.", "PMID": 452218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10024", "title": "Surgical approach to large m\u00fcllerian duct cysts.", "content": "Failure of the m\u00fcllerian duct system to undergo complete involution in the male embryo may result in cystic dilation of these remnants. When these cysts attain great size, they may become paopable abdominally and cause voiding symptoms. A case is presented and the operative approach described. A suprapubic approach affords the best exposure for the complete removal of large m\u00fcllerian duct cysts.", "contents": "Surgical approach to large m\u00fcllerian duct cysts. Failure of the m\u00fcllerian duct system to undergo complete involution in the male embryo may result in cystic dilation of these remnants. When these cysts attain great size, they may become paopable abdominally and cause voiding symptoms. A case is presented and the operative approach described. A suprapubic approach affords the best exposure for the complete removal of large m\u00fcllerian duct cysts.", "PMID": 452219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10025", "title": "Combination radiotherapy and chemotherapy in murine bladder cancer.", "content": "A murine transitional cell carcinoma tumor model has been used to evaluate the combined use of radiotherapy and three chemotherapeutic agents, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), cyclophosphamide, and cis-diamminedichloroplatinum. The preliminary radiation therapy evaluation demonstrated that the tumor is radiosensitive. The combined use of cyclophosphamide and radiation therapy was the most effective regimen, especially when the drug was started prior to radiotherapy. Cis-diamminedichloroplatinum and radiation were a lethal combination, but a synergistic effect was produced when the drug was given after completion of radiotherapy. Doxorubicin hydrochloride and radiotherapy may be synergistic, but more evaluation is necessary.", "contents": "Combination radiotherapy and chemotherapy in murine bladder cancer. A murine transitional cell carcinoma tumor model has been used to evaluate the combined use of radiotherapy and three chemotherapeutic agents, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), cyclophosphamide, and cis-diamminedichloroplatinum. The preliminary radiation therapy evaluation demonstrated that the tumor is radiosensitive. The combined use of cyclophosphamide and radiation therapy was the most effective regimen, especially when the drug was started prior to radiotherapy. Cis-diamminedichloroplatinum and radiation were a lethal combination, but a synergistic effect was produced when the drug was given after completion of radiotherapy. Doxorubicin hydrochloride and radiotherapy may be synergistic, but more evaluation is necessary.", "PMID": 452220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10026", "title": "Spontaneous regression of renal cell carcinoma metastases after preoperative embolization of primary tumor and subsequent nephrectomy.", "content": "Preoperative arterial embolization and infarction of a large renal cell carcinoma followed by radical nephrectomy seven days later led to spontaneous regression of pulmonary metastases. However, a cerebral metastatic deposit manifested itself fourteen months after surgery, requiring craniotomy. Presently, the patient is alive and well with no evidence of disease twenty-one months after his original surgery. The immunologic implications of this favorable response to treatment are discussed, and immunologic testing of similar cases is encouraged.", "contents": "Spontaneous regression of renal cell carcinoma metastases after preoperative embolization of primary tumor and subsequent nephrectomy. Preoperative arterial embolization and infarction of a large renal cell carcinoma followed by radical nephrectomy seven days later led to spontaneous regression of pulmonary metastases. However, a cerebral metastatic deposit manifested itself fourteen months after surgery, requiring craniotomy. Presently, the patient is alive and well with no evidence of disease twenty-one months after his original surgery. The immunologic implications of this favorable response to treatment are discussed, and immunologic testing of similar cases is encouraged.", "PMID": 452221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10027", "title": "Frozen semen -- a poor form of fertility insurance.", "content": "Two previously fertile males have requested surgical vasectomy reversal after divorce and failure of their new younger wives to conceive by repeated inseminations with their stored frozen semen. The sperm had been preserved for six and five years, respectively, as \"fertility insurance\" prior to sterilization by bilateral vasectomy. It is clear that the storage of fertile semen does not guarantee future fertility.", "contents": "Frozen semen -- a poor form of fertility insurance. Two previously fertile males have requested surgical vasectomy reversal after divorce and failure of their new younger wives to conceive by repeated inseminations with their stored frozen semen. The sperm had been preserved for six and five years, respectively, as \"fertility insurance\" prior to sterilization by bilateral vasectomy. It is clear that the storage of fertile semen does not guarantee future fertility.", "PMID": 452222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10028", "title": "Psychologic effects of vasectomy in voluntarily childless men.", "content": "Forty-four childless men and 51 vasectomized parents were compared as to their childhood backgrounds, marital satisfaction, social/emotional adjustment, physical and emotional problems attributed to the vasectomy, and attitudes toward vasectomy as a means of birth control. The findings suggested that for young married men, firmly committed to childlessness and in agreement with their wives regarding the necessity of the operation, vasectomy appears to be as physically and psychologically safe as in married parents for at least a two-year period. There were differences in the childfree men and fathers in styles of adjustment, with the childfree reporting themselves to be more independent, mobile, and less tied to tradition; these differences were seen as being more related to choosing a childfree life style than to the choice of vasectomy as a contraceptive method.", "contents": "Psychologic effects of vasectomy in voluntarily childless men. Forty-four childless men and 51 vasectomized parents were compared as to their childhood backgrounds, marital satisfaction, social/emotional adjustment, physical and emotional problems attributed to the vasectomy, and attitudes toward vasectomy as a means of birth control. The findings suggested that for young married men, firmly committed to childlessness and in agreement with their wives regarding the necessity of the operation, vasectomy appears to be as physically and psychologically safe as in married parents for at least a two-year period. There were differences in the childfree men and fathers in styles of adjustment, with the childfree reporting themselves to be more independent, mobile, and less tied to tradition; these differences were seen as being more related to choosing a childfree life style than to the choice of vasectomy as a contraceptive method.", "PMID": 452223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10029", "title": "Hemangioma of scrotum, perineum, and buttocks.", "content": "A case of cavernous hemangioma of the scrotum with involvement of the perineum and buttock is presented and discussed.", "contents": "Hemangioma of scrotum, perineum, and buttocks. A case of cavernous hemangioma of the scrotum with involvement of the perineum and buttock is presented and discussed.", "PMID": 452224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10030", "title": "Lymphangioma of scrotum.", "content": "A case of lymphangioma of the scrotum is reported. The presenting symptoms of this unusual tumor are an increase in size of the lesion with tenderness or persistent lymphorrhea. Total surgical excision is the definitive treatment.", "contents": "Lymphangioma of scrotum. A case of lymphangioma of the scrotum is reported. The presenting symptoms of this unusual tumor are an increase in size of the lesion with tenderness or persistent lymphorrhea. Total surgical excision is the definitive treatment.", "PMID": 452225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10031", "title": "Wegener granulomatosis. Unusual cause of necrotizing urethritis.", "content": "We report a case of Wegener granulomatosis presenting as a destructive urethral mass. The initial clinical impression was carcinoma, and a urinary diverting procedure was considered before the correct diagnosis was established. The importance of recognizing this unusual disease and its dramatic response to appropriate therapy are emphasized.", "contents": "Wegener granulomatosis. Unusual cause of necrotizing urethritis. We report a case of Wegener granulomatosis presenting as a destructive urethral mass. The initial clinical impression was carcinoma, and a urinary diverting procedure was considered before the correct diagnosis was established. The importance of recognizing this unusual disease and its dramatic response to appropriate therapy are emphasized.", "PMID": 452226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10032", "title": "Virilizing adrenal cortical carcinoma with hypertrophy of spermatic tubules in childhood.", "content": "A review of adrenal cortical carcinoma in childhood is presented, including endocrinologic aspects. Electron microscopic features are presented, as well as the finding of hypertrophied spermatic tubules. The importance of serial steroidal determinations is stressed as a \"tumor marker\" that may help in early detection of recurrent disease and possibly increased long-term survival.", "contents": "Virilizing adrenal cortical carcinoma with hypertrophy of spermatic tubules in childhood. A review of adrenal cortical carcinoma in childhood is presented, including endocrinologic aspects. Electron microscopic features are presented, as well as the finding of hypertrophied spermatic tubules. The importance of serial steroidal determinations is stressed as a \"tumor marker\" that may help in early detection of recurrent disease and possibly increased long-term survival.", "PMID": 452227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10033", "title": "Interstitial cell tumor of testis: a delicate problem.", "content": "Interstitial cell tumor of the testis is a rare tumor in humans. There have been 39 cases reported in children and 13 malignant tumors in adults. Two cases of interstitial cell tumor in childhood, 5 benign types in adults, and 2 malignant tumors are presented herein. In regard to the therapeutic consequences, a plea is made to define the malignant potential of the tumor on histologic criteria alone.", "contents": "Interstitial cell tumor of testis: a delicate problem. Interstitial cell tumor of the testis is a rare tumor in humans. There have been 39 cases reported in children and 13 malignant tumors in adults. Two cases of interstitial cell tumor in childhood, 5 benign types in adults, and 2 malignant tumors are presented herein. In regard to the therapeutic consequences, a plea is made to define the malignant potential of the tumor on histologic criteria alone.", "PMID": 452229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10034", "title": "Leukemic infiltration of penis.", "content": "Leukemic infiltration of the urinary tract is most common in the kidneys. Other areas are involved much less frequently. We report a case of leukemic infiltration of the penis.", "contents": "Leukemic infiltration of penis. Leukemic infiltration of the urinary tract is most common in the kidneys. Other areas are involved much less frequently. We report a case of leukemic infiltration of the penis.", "PMID": 452230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10035", "title": "South American blastomycosis of epididymis.", "content": "Reported herein is the first Brazilian case of epididymal involvement by South American blastomycosis, and apparently the second case to be reported in the world literature.", "contents": "South American blastomycosis of epididymis. Reported herein is the first Brazilian case of epididymal involvement by South American blastomycosis, and apparently the second case to be reported in the world literature.", "PMID": 452231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10036", "title": "Clinical dilemma in management of yolk sac tumor of childhood testis.", "content": "An \"expectant\" approach to management of yolk sac type testis tumors in two boys led to therapeutic failure. The rationale for such \"nontherapy\" in light of current knowledge is discussed. The need for more sophisticated tumor staging as well as improved chemotherapeutic approaches in treatment planning is suggested.", "contents": "Clinical dilemma in management of yolk sac tumor of childhood testis. An \"expectant\" approach to management of yolk sac type testis tumors in two boys led to therapeutic failure. The rationale for such \"nontherapy\" in light of current knowledge is discussed. The need for more sophisticated tumor staging as well as improved chemotherapeutic approaches in treatment planning is suggested.", "PMID": 452232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10037", "title": "Ammonium acid urate stones in Navajo Indian children.", "content": "Three Navajo children presented with a total of five upper tract acid urate stones. Although this stone is thought to be rare in the United States, it may be more common than is generally believed. Age, diet, environment, and in some instances urinary tract infection may be predisposing factors in the development of acid urate stones. Possible prophylactic measures are briefly discussed.", "contents": "Ammonium acid urate stones in Navajo Indian children. Three Navajo children presented with a total of five upper tract acid urate stones. Although this stone is thought to be rare in the United States, it may be more common than is generally believed. Age, diet, environment, and in some instances urinary tract infection may be predisposing factors in the development of acid urate stones. Possible prophylactic measures are briefly discussed.", "PMID": 452233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10038", "title": "Idiopathic calcinosis of scrotum.", "content": "A forty-three-year-old man complained of painless, firm scrotal nodules which had first appeared at age sixteen. These were diagnosed clinically as multiple epidermoid inclusion cysts and were excised. Histologically they were composed of calcified, amorphous, granular material, characteristic of idiopathic calcinosis of the scrotum. This is a rare, benign condition without any recognized underlying metabolic abnormalities. The cause of idiopathic calcinosis of the scrotum is unknown, but we believe it is due to dystrophic calcification of dartoic muscles.", "contents": "Idiopathic calcinosis of scrotum. A forty-three-year-old man complained of painless, firm scrotal nodules which had first appeared at age sixteen. These were diagnosed clinically as multiple epidermoid inclusion cysts and were excised. Histologically they were composed of calcified, amorphous, granular material, characteristic of idiopathic calcinosis of the scrotum. This is a rare, benign condition without any recognized underlying metabolic abnormalities. The cause of idiopathic calcinosis of the scrotum is unknown, but we believe it is due to dystrophic calcification of dartoic muscles.", "PMID": 452234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10039", "title": "How accurate is angiographic staging of renal carcinoma?", "content": "Angiographic interpretations were compared with the pathologic findings of 75 patients undergoing nephrectomy for renal carcinoma. Angiography correctly predicted the clinical stage in only 36 per cent of the cases. This failure rate was attributed to the lack of consistent radiologic criteria for determining invasion of the perinephric fat, renal vein, and extension to regional lymph nodes.", "contents": "How accurate is angiographic staging of renal carcinoma? Angiographic interpretations were compared with the pathologic findings of 75 patients undergoing nephrectomy for renal carcinoma. Angiography correctly predicted the clinical stage in only 36 per cent of the cases. This failure rate was attributed to the lack of consistent radiologic criteria for determining invasion of the perinephric fat, renal vein, and extension to regional lymph nodes.", "PMID": 452236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10040", "title": "[Transcutaneous catheterization of the vena cava superior through the internal jugular vein in children].", "content": "The use of the internal jugular vein together with other branches of the superior vena cava for the percutaneous catheterization of the latter is a method broadening the possibilities for organization of longlasting infusions in children; besides, the anatomical peculiarities of the internal jugular vein provide for a high precision of the localization of the catheter in the superior vena cava.", "contents": "[Transcutaneous catheterization of the vena cava superior through the internal jugular vein in children]. The use of the internal jugular vein together with other branches of the superior vena cava for the percutaneous catheterization of the latter is a method broadening the possibilities for organization of longlasting infusions in children; besides, the anatomical peculiarities of the internal jugular vein provide for a high precision of the localization of the catheter in the superior vena cava.", "PMID": 452257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10041", "title": "[Effect of the type of anesthesia and the parameters of single-lung ventilation on the extent of venous shunt in lung surgery].", "content": "As a result of the studies, carried out upon 30 patients following lung operations, it has been found that an optimal hyperventilation of a single lung with an increased oxygen level in the respiratory mixture prevents the occurrence of hypoxemia and hypercapnia.", "contents": "[Effect of the type of anesthesia and the parameters of single-lung ventilation on the extent of venous shunt in lung surgery]. As a result of the studies, carried out upon 30 patients following lung operations, it has been found that an optimal hyperventilation of a single lung with an increased oxygen level in the respiratory mixture prevents the occurrence of hypoxemia and hypercapnia.", "PMID": 452258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10042", "title": "[Effect of artificial hyperventilation of the lungs on acid-base equilibrium and blood and cerebrospinal fluid gases in patients with postoperative psychosis].", "content": "The alkaline shift of blood Ph together with marked metabolic acidosis in the liquor were found postoperativery in 42 patients operated upon the colon and small intestine at the height of postoperative psychosis. The patients developed tachipnoe up to 32-36 per minute, followed with a great energy expenditure. As a consequence, artificial pulmonary ventilation (APV) at the hyperventilation regime was administered to a part of the patients to correct acidosis of the liquor. Postoperative psychotic patients need an early administration of the APV at the hyperventilation regime, which is one of effective methods of correcting liquor acidosis in the complex therapy of psychoses.", "contents": "[Effect of artificial hyperventilation of the lungs on acid-base equilibrium and blood and cerebrospinal fluid gases in patients with postoperative psychosis]. The alkaline shift of blood Ph together with marked metabolic acidosis in the liquor were found postoperativery in 42 patients operated upon the colon and small intestine at the height of postoperative psychosis. The patients developed tachipnoe up to 32-36 per minute, followed with a great energy expenditure. As a consequence, artificial pulmonary ventilation (APV) at the hyperventilation regime was administered to a part of the patients to correct acidosis of the liquor. Postoperative psychotic patients need an early administration of the APV at the hyperventilation regime, which is one of effective methods of correcting liquor acidosis in the complex therapy of psychoses.", "PMID": 452259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10043", "title": "[Selection of a method and surgical tactics in late repeated operations on the lungs and pleura].", "content": "The experience with the surgical treatment of 97 patients subjected to late repeated operations on the lungs and pleura is generalized in this work. 68% of these patients had pleural empyema and bronchial fistulae. The authors prefer the radical surgery to pulmonectomy, pleuropulmonectomy, decortication, lung resection and repeated amputation of the main bronchus. Fatality in the late repeated operations was noted in 3.09% of cases and complications--in 10.3%.", "contents": "[Selection of a method and surgical tactics in late repeated operations on the lungs and pleura]. The experience with the surgical treatment of 97 patients subjected to late repeated operations on the lungs and pleura is generalized in this work. 68% of these patients had pleural empyema and bronchial fistulae. The authors prefer the radical surgery to pulmonectomy, pleuropulmonectomy, decortication, lung resection and repeated amputation of the main bronchus. Fatality in the late repeated operations was noted in 3.09% of cases and complications--in 10.3%.", "PMID": 452260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10044", "title": "[Hemodynamic changes and nephropathy associated with surgery in obstructive jaundice].", "content": "Some marked changes of central hemodynamics resulting in functional renal disorders have been found in patients with mechanical jaundice. The hemodynamics may help in normalization of renal hemodynamics indices.", "contents": "[Hemodynamic changes and nephropathy associated with surgery in obstructive jaundice]. Some marked changes of central hemodynamics resulting in functional renal disorders have been found in patients with mechanical jaundice. The hemodynamics may help in normalization of renal hemodynamics indices.", "PMID": 452261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10045", "title": "[State of the glucocorticoid function of the adrenal glands in gynecological patients operated on under epidural anesthesia balanced with sodium oxybutyrate].", "content": "The alterations of hydrocortisone concentration in the blood serum have been studied in 29 gynecological patients. Epidural anesthesia combined with sodium hydroxybutyrate surface anesthesia prevents an unnecessary activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system. A sedative effect of sodium hydroxybutyrate favours the elimination of emotional stress in patients. The preservation of an adequate and not excessive adrenocortical response to the surgical trauma has been noted as well.", "contents": "[State of the glucocorticoid function of the adrenal glands in gynecological patients operated on under epidural anesthesia balanced with sodium oxybutyrate]. The alterations of hydrocortisone concentration in the blood serum have been studied in 29 gynecological patients. Epidural anesthesia combined with sodium hydroxybutyrate surface anesthesia prevents an unnecessary activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system. A sedative effect of sodium hydroxybutyrate favours the elimination of emotional stress in patients. The preservation of an adequate and not excessive adrenocortical response to the surgical trauma has been noted as well.", "PMID": 452262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10046", "title": "[New method of endoprosthesis of the femur head].", "content": "The author has developed an original method of endoprothetics of joints (application N 2651054/13). Endoprothesis is fabricated from plastics to a cast taken from the removed articular end of the bone. This allows to manifacture an exact replica. An individual endoprothetics has been used successfuly in the treatment of 12 patients with fractures and pseudoarthroses of the femoral neck.", "contents": "[New method of endoprosthesis of the femur head]. The author has developed an original method of endoprothetics of joints (application N 2651054/13). Endoprothesis is fabricated from plastics to a cast taken from the removed articular end of the bone. This allows to manifacture an exact replica. An individual endoprothetics has been used successfuly in the treatment of 12 patients with fractures and pseudoarthroses of the femoral neck.", "PMID": 452263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10047", "title": "[Ways of reducing the extent of amputation of the limbs in endarteritis obliterans].", "content": "As a result of the development of vascular surgery, the interest in so called \"minor surgery\" (exarticulation of the toes, transmetatarsal amputation of the foot) has been resuscitated of late years. A comparative analysis of various methods of the treatment of 145 patients with obliterating endarteritis of Stages IV and V is performed. An intense pre- and postoperative therapy, hyperoxybarotherapy included, was carried out. The patients were subjected to sympatectomy, intraarterial infusion and skin plasty.", "contents": "[Ways of reducing the extent of amputation of the limbs in endarteritis obliterans]. As a result of the development of vascular surgery, the interest in so called \"minor surgery\" (exarticulation of the toes, transmetatarsal amputation of the foot) has been resuscitated of late years. A comparative analysis of various methods of the treatment of 145 patients with obliterating endarteritis of Stages IV and V is performed. An intense pre- and postoperative therapy, hyperoxybarotherapy included, was carried out. The patients were subjected to sympatectomy, intraarterial infusion and skin plasty.", "PMID": 452264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10048", "title": "[Changes in microcirculation and respiration in acute intra-abdominal pathology according to electrokymographic data].", "content": "Electrokymography was applied for studies of pulmonary circulation and ventilation in 31 patients. A decrease of pulmonary circulation by 23.3% and lung ventilation reduction by 15.6% were found. The disturbance of circulation and ventilation ensues from the changes of microcirculation in acute intraabdominal pathology.", "contents": "[Changes in microcirculation and respiration in acute intra-abdominal pathology according to electrokymographic data]. Electrokymography was applied for studies of pulmonary circulation and ventilation in 31 patients. A decrease of pulmonary circulation by 23.3% and lung ventilation reduction by 15.6% were found. The disturbance of circulation and ventilation ensues from the changes of microcirculation in acute intraabdominal pathology.", "PMID": 452265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10049", "title": "[Gastrostomy and esophagoplasty with a pedicle graft from the greater curvature of the stomach as stages in surgical and combined treatment of cancer of the thoracic esophagus].", "content": "Not infrequently cancer of the middle and lower thirds of the esophagus metastasizes into the subfrenic lymph nodes, which justifies a revisional laparotomy for completing the diagnosis of the tumor process spreading. A peduncular gastrostomy is carried out at the revisional laparotomy. A one-stage operation of extirpation and plasty of the esophagus with a stomach tube, housed in the bed of ablated esophagus, involves a great risk and is followed by a high fatality rate.", "contents": "[Gastrostomy and esophagoplasty with a pedicle graft from the greater curvature of the stomach as stages in surgical and combined treatment of cancer of the thoracic esophagus]. Not infrequently cancer of the middle and lower thirds of the esophagus metastasizes into the subfrenic lymph nodes, which justifies a revisional laparotomy for completing the diagnosis of the tumor process spreading. A peduncular gastrostomy is carried out at the revisional laparotomy. A one-stage operation of extirpation and plasty of the esophagus with a stomach tube, housed in the bed of ablated esophagus, involves a great risk and is followed by a high fatality rate.", "PMID": 452266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10050", "title": "[Surgical treatment of non-neoplastic lesions of the terminal portions of the biliary and pancreatic ducts and major duodenal papilla].", "content": "The author presents his classification of the operations on major duodenal papilla and terminal portions of the common bile and pancreatic ducts. Indications for various types of operations are set forth.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of non-neoplastic lesions of the terminal portions of the biliary and pancreatic ducts and major duodenal papilla]. The author presents his classification of the operations on major duodenal papilla and terminal portions of the common bile and pancreatic ducts. Indications for various types of operations are set forth.", "PMID": 452267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10051", "title": "[Abacterial principle in surgery].", "content": "The authors dispose an experience with 250 surgical interventions with employment of abacterial insulators. The operations were carried out upon the abdominal organs, thorax, bones, vessels, urogenital organs etc. in neonates and elder children. A number of advantages of the surgical method with employment of abacterial insulators are ascertained.", "contents": "[Abacterial principle in surgery]. The authors dispose an experience with 250 surgical interventions with employment of abacterial insulators. The operations were carried out upon the abdominal organs, thorax, bones, vessels, urogenital organs etc. in neonates and elder children. A number of advantages of the surgical method with employment of abacterial insulators are ascertained.", "PMID": 452268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10052", "title": "[Endorectal \"Shchetkin symptom\" in acute surgical diseases and injuries of the abdominal organs].", "content": "The results of the digital rectal examination of 218 patients with \"acute abdomen\" syndrome are generalized here. 145 patients (66.5%) showed a greater pain-fullness at the detachment of the finger from the anterior wall of the rectum than at the pressing on the latter. 183 patients were operated upon; in 126 of them free liquid was found in the abdominal cavity. The endorectal \"Shchetkin symptom\" was positive in 79% of operated patients (in 93.7% of patients with abdominal free liquid found at the operation).", "contents": "[Endorectal \"Shchetkin symptom\" in acute surgical diseases and injuries of the abdominal organs]. The results of the digital rectal examination of 218 patients with \"acute abdomen\" syndrome are generalized here. 145 patients (66.5%) showed a greater pain-fullness at the detachment of the finger from the anterior wall of the rectum than at the pressing on the latter. 183 patients were operated upon; in 126 of them free liquid was found in the abdominal cavity. The endorectal \"Shchetkin symptom\" was positive in 79% of operated patients (in 93.7% of patients with abdominal free liquid found at the operation).", "PMID": 452269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10053", "title": "[Effect of perfusion of the abdominal cavity on the course of the postoperative period].", "content": "The perfusion (washing) of the abdominal cavity with isoosmomolar solution by I. I. Deryabin and M. N. Lizanets method following operations carried out upon 104 gynecological patients and 26 cases of Caesarean section was carried out. The perfusion did not bring about any unfavourable effect upon the postoperative clinical course or noxious effect upon the mesothelium of the abdominal cavity. No reliable changes in the biochemical and electrolytic blood composition were shown. The method aided in the prevention of enteroparesis, peritonitis and adhesive disease.", "contents": "[Effect of perfusion of the abdominal cavity on the course of the postoperative period]. The perfusion (washing) of the abdominal cavity with isoosmomolar solution by I. I. Deryabin and M. N. Lizanets method following operations carried out upon 104 gynecological patients and 26 cases of Caesarean section was carried out. The perfusion did not bring about any unfavourable effect upon the postoperative clinical course or noxious effect upon the mesothelium of the abdominal cavity. No reliable changes in the biochemical and electrolytic blood composition were shown. The method aided in the prevention of enteroparesis, peritonitis and adhesive disease.", "PMID": 452270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10054", "title": "[Comparative evaluation of remote results of radical and conservative operations in initial forms of rectal cancer].", "content": "According to the authors' data, the 5 years' survival following economic resections of the rectum for cancer is not worse than that after radical operations, done on properly determined indications.", "contents": "[Comparative evaluation of remote results of radical and conservative operations in initial forms of rectal cancer]. According to the authors' data, the 5 years' survival following economic resections of the rectum for cancer is not worse than that after radical operations, done on properly determined indications.", "PMID": 452271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10055", "title": "[New features in the course and outcome of treatment of lactation mastitis].", "content": "An analysis of the outcomes of the treatment of 150 patients with lactational mastitis has warranted the conclusion on a secondary origin of the disease in many cases. Not infrequently lactational mastitis occurred as a result of a pathological delivery and hospitalism, in 8% of patients lactational mastitis being nothing but a local manifestation of a general purulent infection--sepsis. In the most of patients a radical dissection of the abscess has proved to be an effective and sufficient therapeutic method. The greatest difficulties were encountered in the treatment of sepsis with necrosis, sequestration or fusion of vast portions of the mammary gland.", "contents": "[New features in the course and outcome of treatment of lactation mastitis]. An analysis of the outcomes of the treatment of 150 patients with lactational mastitis has warranted the conclusion on a secondary origin of the disease in many cases. Not infrequently lactational mastitis occurred as a result of a pathological delivery and hospitalism, in 8% of patients lactational mastitis being nothing but a local manifestation of a general purulent infection--sepsis. In the most of patients a radical dissection of the abscess has proved to be an effective and sufficient therapeutic method. The greatest difficulties were encountered in the treatment of sepsis with necrosis, sequestration or fusion of vast portions of the mammary gland.", "PMID": 452272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10056", "title": "[Tuberculosis of the breast].", "content": "The author observed 6 cases of mammary gland tuberculosis. 3 patients showed disseminated nodular form of mammary gland tuberculosis, 2--sclerotic form and 1--ulcerative form. Contrast-free mammography is an essential aid in diagnosis. Surgical intervention with postoperative specific antibacterial therapy is a radical method of treatment. Sectoral resection of the mammary gland should be carried out in young patients and amputation--in elderly ones.", "contents": "[Tuberculosis of the breast]. The author observed 6 cases of mammary gland tuberculosis. 3 patients showed disseminated nodular form of mammary gland tuberculosis, 2--sclerotic form and 1--ulcerative form. Contrast-free mammography is an essential aid in diagnosis. Surgical intervention with postoperative specific antibacterial therapy is a radical method of treatment. Sectoral resection of the mammary gland should be carried out in young patients and amputation--in elderly ones.", "PMID": 452273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10057", "title": "[Surgical treatment of acute occlusion of the main arteries of the arm].", "content": "An experience with the treatment of acute occlusions of the upper limbs vessels in 41 patients is presented. The conservative treatment of 10 patients has brought about poor results (2--gangrene, 5--considerable functional disorders of the limb). 31 patients were subjected to surgical treatment. Complete restoration of the circulation in the limbs occurred in 19 patients, a satisfactory compensation of the circulation occurred in 8 patients. The amputation of fingers was carried out upon 4 patients.", "contents": "[Surgical treatment of acute occlusion of the main arteries of the arm]. An experience with the treatment of acute occlusions of the upper limbs vessels in 41 patients is presented. The conservative treatment of 10 patients has brought about poor results (2--gangrene, 5--considerable functional disorders of the limb). 31 patients were subjected to surgical treatment. Complete restoration of the circulation in the limbs occurred in 19 patients, a satisfactory compensation of the circulation occurred in 8 patients. The amputation of fingers was carried out upon 4 patients.", "PMID": 452274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10058", "title": "[Transbronchial transthoracic sanation of chronic suppurative foci in the lungs].", "content": "A new method of bronchial sanitation consisting in conducting a polyurethane tube through the pulmonary tissue and thoracic wall outward under the bronchoscopy control is suggested. The method has been used successfully in 22 patients.", "contents": "[Transbronchial transthoracic sanation of chronic suppurative foci in the lungs]. A new method of bronchial sanitation consisting in conducting a polyurethane tube through the pulmonary tissue and thoracic wall outward under the bronchoscopy control is suggested. The method has been used successfully in 22 patients.", "PMID": 452276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10059", "title": "[Pathogenesis of pulmonary complications in severe mechanical non-thoracic trauma].", "content": "On the grounds of morphologic studies the authors suppose that pulmonary complications of a severe mechanical trauma without injuries to thoracic organs are due to microcirculatory disorders and to microatelectases resulting from the trauma.", "contents": "[Pathogenesis of pulmonary complications in severe mechanical non-thoracic trauma]. On the grounds of morphologic studies the authors suppose that pulmonary complications of a severe mechanical trauma without injuries to thoracic organs are due to microcirculatory disorders and to microatelectases resulting from the trauma.", "PMID": 452277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10060", "title": "[Open diaphyseal fractures of long tubular bones in traffic accidents].", "content": "An analysis of the treatment of 203 patients with open diaphysial fractures of the long tubular bones, resulting from motor-road accidents has been carried out. Late results have been studied in 134 cases (66%) with follow-up ranging from 1 to 10 years. 69% of them have completely restored their working capacity with the possibility to return to their previous work. The results of the treatment were estimated in three-mark grading system terms: 55.7% of all the examined patients showed good results, 30.9% showed fair results and 13.4% showed poor results (pseudoarthrosis, malunion, osteomyelitis).", "contents": "[Open diaphyseal fractures of long tubular bones in traffic accidents]. An analysis of the treatment of 203 patients with open diaphysial fractures of the long tubular bones, resulting from motor-road accidents has been carried out. Late results have been studied in 134 cases (66%) with follow-up ranging from 1 to 10 years. 69% of them have completely restored their working capacity with the possibility to return to their previous work. The results of the treatment were estimated in three-mark grading system terms: 55.7% of all the examined patients showed good results, 30.9% showed fair results and 13.4% showed poor results (pseudoarthrosis, malunion, osteomyelitis).", "PMID": 452278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10061", "title": "[Diagnosis and treatment of nerve injuries in fractures and bone diseases in children].", "content": "The author observed 78 children with injuries to the nerves. In 49 patients the injury was due to fractures or bone diseases. In 29 patients the nerve injuries were associated with the bone surgery (osteosynthesis, open reposition of fragments etc.) Peculiarities of the diagnosis and treatment of nerve injuries in children are described.", "contents": "[Diagnosis and treatment of nerve injuries in fractures and bone diseases in children]. The author observed 78 children with injuries to the nerves. In 49 patients the injury was due to fractures or bone diseases. In 29 patients the nerve injuries were associated with the bone surgery (osteosynthesis, open reposition of fragments etc.) Peculiarities of the diagnosis and treatment of nerve injuries in children are described.", "PMID": 452279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10062", "title": "[\"Isolated\" volvulus of the small intestine in newborn infants and its surgical treatment].", "content": "Malformations of the structure and fixation of the small intestine mesentery in nenates constitute essential morphologic predisposing factors for the occurrence of an \"isolated\" volvulus and are responsible for clinico-radiological peculiarities of the pathology. The children, operated upon for \"isolated\" small intestine volvulus, who had shown this pathology, should be under a prolonged medical supervision.", "contents": "[\"Isolated\" volvulus of the small intestine in newborn infants and its surgical treatment]. Malformations of the structure and fixation of the small intestine mesentery in nenates constitute essential morphologic predisposing factors for the occurrence of an \"isolated\" volvulus and are responsible for clinico-radiological peculiarities of the pathology. The children, operated upon for \"isolated\" small intestine volvulus, who had shown this pathology, should be under a prolonged medical supervision.", "PMID": 452280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10063", "title": "[Functional evaluation of reduction of venous outflow from the testis in left-side varicocele in children].", "content": "A functional state of venous return from the testicles was estimated on the grounds of a direct measurement of pressure gradients among main points of venous return on 61 unoperated adolescents, aged from 13 to 15, and with marked varicocele; and in 10 children of the same age without varicocele (a control group). The results of the estimation have proved that the hydrostatic pressure in the veins of the pampiniform plexus is directly responsible for their hyperdistension in the vertical position. An exceptional role of renal venous hypertension in the genesis of varicocele in children is doubtful.", "contents": "[Functional evaluation of reduction of venous outflow from the testis in left-side varicocele in children]. A functional state of venous return from the testicles was estimated on the grounds of a direct measurement of pressure gradients among main points of venous return on 61 unoperated adolescents, aged from 13 to 15, and with marked varicocele; and in 10 children of the same age without varicocele (a control group). The results of the estimation have proved that the hydrostatic pressure in the veins of the pampiniform plexus is directly responsible for their hyperdistension in the vertical position. An exceptional role of renal venous hypertension in the genesis of varicocele in children is doubtful.", "PMID": 452281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10064", "title": "[Technic for restorative operations in injury to the proximal portion of the femoral vein].", "content": "Some problems of surgical treatment of wounds of the proximal portions of the femoral vein are discussed. Considering the development of chronic venous insufficiency, resulting from the ligation of the vein at this level, the necessity of a timely restoration of the main blood flow in such vascular injuries is noted.", "contents": "[Technic for restorative operations in injury to the proximal portion of the femoral vein]. Some problems of surgical treatment of wounds of the proximal portions of the femoral vein are discussed. Considering the development of chronic venous insufficiency, resulting from the ligation of the vein at this level, the necessity of a timely restoration of the main blood flow in such vascular injuries is noted.", "PMID": 452282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10065", "title": "[Disputable and indisputable questions in the problem of traumatic shock].", "content": "When characterising the so called disputable and indisputable points in the traumatic shock problem, the authors acquaint the reader with phases of the development of shock and with its symptoms, which facilitates significantly diagnostic possibilities and allows to follow the dynamics of the disease. The physicians will benefit from the scheme of antishock therapy suggested by the authors.", "contents": "[Disputable and indisputable questions in the problem of traumatic shock]. When characterising the so called disputable and indisputable points in the traumatic shock problem, the authors acquaint the reader with phases of the development of shock and with its symptoms, which facilitates significantly diagnostic possibilities and allows to follow the dynamics of the disease. The physicians will benefit from the scheme of antishock therapy suggested by the authors.", "PMID": 452283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10066", "title": "[Clinical characteristics of the early postshock period in traumatic disease].", "content": "The clinical course of an early (up to 14 days) postshock period of traumatic disease in 112 patients, treated for a combined trauma complicated with shock, has been studied. It has been established that within first 2 days after shock more than half of the patients develop increased coagulative activity of the blood, which rises still more in the following period. Progressive anemia, connected apparently with hemopoietic depression, is characteristic of the postshock period. In the second period (3--14 days after trauma) 60% of examined patients showed hypokalemia. A great percentage of inflammatory complications is likely to be due to the decrease of the defense--adaptative mechanisms, resulting from changes of the reactivity in the injured after shock.", "contents": "[Clinical characteristics of the early postshock period in traumatic disease]. The clinical course of an early (up to 14 days) postshock period of traumatic disease in 112 patients, treated for a combined trauma complicated with shock, has been studied. It has been established that within first 2 days after shock more than half of the patients develop increased coagulative activity of the blood, which rises still more in the following period. Progressive anemia, connected apparently with hemopoietic depression, is characteristic of the postshock period. In the second period (3--14 days after trauma) 60% of examined patients showed hypokalemia. A great percentage of inflammatory complications is likely to be due to the decrease of the defense--adaptative mechanisms, resulting from changes of the reactivity in the injured after shock.", "PMID": 452284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10067", "title": "[Determination of the free oxygen tension in the tissues of the lower extermities in varicose disease and the postthrombophlebitic syndrome].", "content": "The determination of the free oxygen tension in the calf muscles was carried out in 118 patients with varicosis and postthrombophlebitic syndrome. It was found that with the progress of hemodynamic disturbances the severity degree of chronic tissue hypoxia rises. In early postoperative period in patients operated upon during the compensatory and subcompensatory stages of venous reflux the polarography indices proved a considerable improvement of the tissue oxygen balance.", "contents": "[Determination of the free oxygen tension in the tissues of the lower extermities in varicose disease and the postthrombophlebitic syndrome]. The determination of the free oxygen tension in the calf muscles was carried out in 118 patients with varicosis and postthrombophlebitic syndrome. It was found that with the progress of hemodynamic disturbances the severity degree of chronic tissue hypoxia rises. In early postoperative period in patients operated upon during the compensatory and subcompensatory stages of venous reflux the polarography indices proved a considerable improvement of the tissue oxygen balance.", "PMID": 452294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10068", "title": "[Diagnosis of incompetent communicating veins in contrast medium-sensitive patients].", "content": "A new functional method of phlebotonometry was used by the authors in 36 contrast--sensitive patient with postthrombophlebitic syndrome and varicosis for the purpose of diagnosing incompetent calf communicants. The determination of venous pressure in the superficial veins in these patients should be carried out between tourniquets three times at rest and against the backgrounds of the Valdman's test with the patient in a horizontal position by means of Valdman apparatus with elongated capillary tubes.", "contents": "[Diagnosis of incompetent communicating veins in contrast medium-sensitive patients]. A new functional method of phlebotonometry was used by the authors in 36 contrast--sensitive patient with postthrombophlebitic syndrome and varicosis for the purpose of diagnosing incompetent calf communicants. The determination of venous pressure in the superficial veins in these patients should be carried out between tourniquets three times at rest and against the backgrounds of the Valdman's test with the patient in a horizontal position by means of Valdman apparatus with elongated capillary tubes.", "PMID": 452295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10069", "title": "[Gangliectomy in the treatment of obliterating arterial diseases of the lower extremities].", "content": "The work is based upon the experience with the treatment of 400 cases of obliterating diseases of the lower limbs arteries by means of gangliectomy. The evaluation of the operation is grounded on 2- and 10-years observations over the patients. When the blood flow insufficiency is not too severe, it, most commonly, results in a considerable decrease of the intensity of intermittent limping and favours the removal of destructive lesions. Beneficial results of the surgery most often persist for many years. In a higher obstruction of the arteries the results are somewhat poorer, the same as in case of obliterating atherosclerosis when compared to obliterating endoarteritis.", "contents": "[Gangliectomy in the treatment of obliterating arterial diseases of the lower extremities]. The work is based upon the experience with the treatment of 400 cases of obliterating diseases of the lower limbs arteries by means of gangliectomy. The evaluation of the operation is grounded on 2- and 10-years observations over the patients. When the blood flow insufficiency is not too severe, it, most commonly, results in a considerable decrease of the intensity of intermittent limping and favours the removal of destructive lesions. Beneficial results of the surgery most often persist for many years. In a higher obstruction of the arteries the results are somewhat poorer, the same as in case of obliterating atherosclerosis when compared to obliterating endoarteritis.", "PMID": 452296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10070", "title": "[Use of a membrane oxygenator for correcting acute, experimental respiratory insufficiency].", "content": "A model of acute respiratory insufficiency ARI was created in the experiments on 16 dogs by means of a valvular device furnishing a free inhalation and a limited expiration. The diaphragmatic oxigenator devised in VNIIP with an armoured diaphragm of \"Sigma\"--type was switched on at the height of ARI. 3 hours' perfusion corrected successfully the manifestation of hypercapnic hypoxia. The pulmonary function restored after the experiment.", "contents": "[Use of a membrane oxygenator for correcting acute, experimental respiratory insufficiency]. A model of acute respiratory insufficiency ARI was created in the experiments on 16 dogs by means of a valvular device furnishing a free inhalation and a limited expiration. The diaphragmatic oxigenator devised in VNIIP with an armoured diaphragm of \"Sigma\"--type was switched on at the height of ARI. 3 hours' perfusion corrected successfully the manifestation of hypercapnic hypoxia. The pulmonary function restored after the experiment.", "PMID": 452297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10071", "title": "[Polycystosis of the liver].", "content": "The authors operated 15 cases with polycystotic liver. The diagnostic value of ultrasound echolocation and hepatoscanning in polycystosis was noted. In authors' opinion the surgical treatment of polycystotic liver should be carried out in due time during the clinical manifestations phase and ought to be radical enough to yield satisfactory results.", "contents": "[Polycystosis of the liver]. The authors operated 15 cases with polycystotic liver. The diagnostic value of ultrasound echolocation and hepatoscanning in polycystosis was noted. In authors' opinion the surgical treatment of polycystotic liver should be carried out in due time during the clinical manifestations phase and ought to be radical enough to yield satisfactory results.", "PMID": 452298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10072", "title": "[Anthropometric and topographic characteristics of the gallbladder in cholecystitis].", "content": "Anthropometric studies were carried out upon 228 patients with cholecystitis, and the findings were compared to those obtained in the control group. The location of the liver anterior margin, projection of the gall-bladder fundus, the upper point of the gall-bladder, the site of the fusion of the cystic duct and the hepaticocholedochus versus the spine and the costal arch margin were studied in 174 patients. On the grounds of these studies a classification embracing 9 variants of the gall-bladder position has been suggested together with some variants of oblique incision in the right subcostal region with regard to the individual topography of the gall-bladder.", "contents": "[Anthropometric and topographic characteristics of the gallbladder in cholecystitis]. Anthropometric studies were carried out upon 228 patients with cholecystitis, and the findings were compared to those obtained in the control group. The location of the liver anterior margin, projection of the gall-bladder fundus, the upper point of the gall-bladder, the site of the fusion of the cystic duct and the hepaticocholedochus versus the spine and the costal arch margin were studied in 174 patients. On the grounds of these studies a classification embracing 9 variants of the gall-bladder position has been suggested together with some variants of oblique incision in the right subcostal region with regard to the individual topography of the gall-bladder.", "PMID": 452300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10073", "title": "[Characteristics of the pathogenesis and treatment of acute cholecystitis in the middle-aged and elderly].", "content": "On the grounds of 98 own clinico-pathomorphologic studies and analysis of 112 records the authors have come to the conclusion that at the root of the pathogenesis of acute cholecystitis in elderly and senile patients is the disorder of the gall-bladder wall blood supply, resulting from thrombosis of atherosclerotic vessels against the back-ground of increased coagulation. The authors believe, that the treatment of cholecystitis in these patients with drugs, decreasing the coagulation of the blood and improving hemocirculation, has pathogenetic grounds.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the pathogenesis and treatment of acute cholecystitis in the middle-aged and elderly]. On the grounds of 98 own clinico-pathomorphologic studies and analysis of 112 records the authors have come to the conclusion that at the root of the pathogenesis of acute cholecystitis in elderly and senile patients is the disorder of the gall-bladder wall blood supply, resulting from thrombosis of atherosclerotic vessels against the back-ground of increased coagulation. The authors believe, that the treatment of cholecystitis in these patients with drugs, decreasing the coagulation of the blood and improving hemocirculation, has pathogenetic grounds.", "PMID": 452301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10074", "title": "[Resection of the pancreas in necrotic pancreatitis].", "content": "The grounds for expediency of pancreatic resection in various periods of the necrotic pancreatitis clinical course are presented together with the description of a simplier technique of a left-side resection of the gland combined with spleenectomy. The left-side resection of the pancreas was carried out in 74 cases, pancreatoduodenal resection--in 1 patient. 4 patients died.", "contents": "[Resection of the pancreas in necrotic pancreatitis]. The grounds for expediency of pancreatic resection in various periods of the necrotic pancreatitis clinical course are presented together with the description of a simplier technique of a left-side resection of the gland combined with spleenectomy. The left-side resection of the pancreas was carried out in 74 cases, pancreatoduodenal resection--in 1 patient. 4 patients died.", "PMID": 452302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10075", "title": "[Creation of a model of chronic pancreatitis].", "content": "A model of chronic pancreatitis has been created in 13 mongrel dogs. The animals were withdrawn from the experiment 2 months after the beginning of it. According to the author's data, artifically created insufficiency of the constrictors of the common bile and pancreatic ducts in dogs is analogous to unfitness of the sphincter in man and results in the development of the changes in the abdominal cavity, specific for chronic pancreatitis.", "contents": "[Creation of a model of chronic pancreatitis]. A model of chronic pancreatitis has been created in 13 mongrel dogs. The animals were withdrawn from the experiment 2 months after the beginning of it. According to the author's data, artifically created insufficiency of the constrictors of the common bile and pancreatic ducts in dogs is analogous to unfitness of the sphincter in man and results in the development of the changes in the abdominal cavity, specific for chronic pancreatitis.", "PMID": 452303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10076", "title": "[Surgical complications of ascariasis and their treatment].", "content": "548 cases of abdominal complications of ascariasis such as intestinal ileus--208 (37.9%), perforation of the intestinal wall and postoperative complications--35 (6.4%), appendicitis--26 (4.8%), gastrointestinal bleedings--11 (2%), lesions of the bile passages, liver and pancreas--25 (4.6%) and pseudoabdominal syndrome--243 (44.3%), have been analysed. Consideration has been given to the peculiarities of the diagnosis and treatment. The total lethality constituted 4.4%. The highest fatality occurs in case of the lesions of the hepatobiliary system and destructive injuries to hollow organs.", "contents": "[Surgical complications of ascariasis and their treatment]. 548 cases of abdominal complications of ascariasis such as intestinal ileus--208 (37.9%), perforation of the intestinal wall and postoperative complications--35 (6.4%), appendicitis--26 (4.8%), gastrointestinal bleedings--11 (2%), lesions of the bile passages, liver and pancreas--25 (4.6%) and pseudoabdominal syndrome--243 (44.3%), have been analysed. Consideration has been given to the peculiarities of the diagnosis and treatment. The total lethality constituted 4.4%. The highest fatality occurs in case of the lesions of the hepatobiliary system and destructive injuries to hollow organs.", "PMID": 452304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10077", "title": "[Primary multiple malignant tumors of different localizations].", "content": "The authors observed 57 patients with primary multiple tumors of various localization. The intervital diagnosis of polyneoplasms was established in 37 patients, the second tumor was found in 20 of 57 cases at the autopsy. 2 neoplastic nodes were found in 52 cases, 3-- in 4 cases, in one case 6 primary multiple neoplasms were found in the sigmoid colon (5 malignant polyps and 1 ulceroinfiltrative carcinoma).", "contents": "[Primary multiple malignant tumors of different localizations]. The authors observed 57 patients with primary multiple tumors of various localization. The intervital diagnosis of polyneoplasms was established in 37 patients, the second tumor was found in 20 of 57 cases at the autopsy. 2 neoplastic nodes were found in 52 cases, 3-- in 4 cases, in one case 6 primary multiple neoplasms were found in the sigmoid colon (5 malignant polyps and 1 ulceroinfiltrative carcinoma).", "PMID": 452305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10078", "title": "[External intestinal fistulae].", "content": "The authors describe external intestinal fistulae found within 11 years at 5000 urgent operations on abdominal organs in 56 patients. 20 of them showed fistulae of appendicular origin, 15 developed fistulae following various traumas of abdominal organs, 1--after intestinal ileus, in 3 cases fistulae were due to incarceration of hernia, in 17 cases external fistulae were applied in intestinal neoplasms. Small gut fistulae were noted in 15, colon fistulae--in 41 patients. The total of 19 patients died, most of them had malignant intestinal neoplasms.", "contents": "[External intestinal fistulae]. The authors describe external intestinal fistulae found within 11 years at 5000 urgent operations on abdominal organs in 56 patients. 20 of them showed fistulae of appendicular origin, 15 developed fistulae following various traumas of abdominal organs, 1--after intestinal ileus, in 3 cases fistulae were due to incarceration of hernia, in 17 cases external fistulae were applied in intestinal neoplasms. Small gut fistulae were noted in 15, colon fistulae--in 41 patients. The total of 19 patients died, most of them had malignant intestinal neoplasms.", "PMID": 452306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10079", "title": "[Pathomorphological changes and the level of intestinal resection in acute occlusion of the mesenteric vessels].", "content": "The analysis of 239 case histories and of 229 autopsy recores of patients died from this disease in set forth in the article. The ratio of mesenteric thrombosis and embolism constituted 2.78% of all the autopsies. The occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery was found in 76.0% of all the autopsies, of the mesenteric veins--in 14.7%, of the inferior mesenteric artery--in 4.2%, of both superior and inferior mesenteric arteries--in 4.2% and of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries--in 0.83%.", "contents": "[Pathomorphological changes and the level of intestinal resection in acute occlusion of the mesenteric vessels]. The analysis of 239 case histories and of 229 autopsy recores of patients died from this disease in set forth in the article. The ratio of mesenteric thrombosis and embolism constituted 2.78% of all the autopsies. The occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery was found in 76.0% of all the autopsies, of the mesenteric veins--in 14.7%, of the inferior mesenteric artery--in 4.2%, of both superior and inferior mesenteric arteries--in 4.2% and of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries--in 0.83%.", "PMID": 452307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10080", "title": "[Method of computing the electrolytes in correcting water-salt metabolic disorders].", "content": "The derivation of a unified equation for carrying out the correction of any anion and cation deficiency of the blood plasma is set forth. A scheme of the correction of the most important plasma electrolytes deficiency is suggested. The main principle of the scheme is to begin the correction from a smaller deficiency.", "contents": "[Method of computing the electrolytes in correcting water-salt metabolic disorders]. The derivation of a unified equation for carrying out the correction of any anion and cation deficiency of the blood plasma is set forth. A scheme of the correction of the most important plasma electrolytes deficiency is suggested. The main principle of the scheme is to begin the correction from a smaller deficiency.", "PMID": 452308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10081", "title": "[Treatment of peritonitis in abdominal injuries].", "content": "According to the author's data, peritonitis occurred in 250 (20.8%) out of 1200 cases of abdominal injuries, 69 of these 250 patients died (27.6%). The main means combating this complication was an early surgical intervention. A complex of postoperative therapeutic procedures, aimed at the prophylaxis and treatment of peritonitis in these patients, is described.", "contents": "[Treatment of peritonitis in abdominal injuries]. According to the author's data, peritonitis occurred in 250 (20.8%) out of 1200 cases of abdominal injuries, 69 of these 250 patients died (27.6%). The main means combating this complication was an early surgical intervention. A complex of postoperative therapeutic procedures, aimed at the prophylaxis and treatment of peritonitis in these patients, is described.", "PMID": 452311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10082", "title": "[Creatine kinase test in frostbite].", "content": "The activity of blood serum creatine kinase was studied in 37 cases with various degree of frostbites and in healthy individuals. The dynamic study of blood serum creatine kinase in frostbites cases during the first week allows for the differentiation between deep and superficial frostbites.", "contents": "[Creatine kinase test in frostbite]. The activity of blood serum creatine kinase was studied in 37 cases with various degree of frostbites and in healthy individuals. The dynamic study of blood serum creatine kinase in frostbites cases during the first week allows for the differentiation between deep and superficial frostbites.", "PMID": 452312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10083", "title": "A light and electron microscopic study of a normal adrenal medulla and a pheochromocytoma from a horse.", "content": "The outer medullary (juxtacortical) zone of a normal equine adrenal gland had columnar chromaffin-positive cells arranged with their long axes perpendicular to fine vascular channels. The deeper medullary regions were composed of smaller irregularly round to polygonal chromaffin positive cells in small packets. Both cell types contained two types of membrane-bound cytoplasmic secretory granules. Osmiophilic granules with a homogeneous core, crenated membrane and narrow submembranous halo predominated in the columnar juxtacortical cells. The rounder, central medullary cells contained predominantly electron dense granules with a wide irregular electron lucent space between an eccentric core and the granule membrane. In contrast, irrespective of cell type or zone, cells from a pheochromocytoma contained only one type of granule similar to that described for the juxtacortical region of the normal equine adrenal medulla. The tumor cells could be classified into three subtypes based on density of granule packing but the granules were morphologically similar in all tumor cells.", "contents": "A light and electron microscopic study of a normal adrenal medulla and a pheochromocytoma from a horse. The outer medullary (juxtacortical) zone of a normal equine adrenal gland had columnar chromaffin-positive cells arranged with their long axes perpendicular to fine vascular channels. The deeper medullary regions were composed of smaller irregularly round to polygonal chromaffin positive cells in small packets. Both cell types contained two types of membrane-bound cytoplasmic secretory granules. Osmiophilic granules with a homogeneous core, crenated membrane and narrow submembranous halo predominated in the columnar juxtacortical cells. The rounder, central medullary cells contained predominantly electron dense granules with a wide irregular electron lucent space between an eccentric core and the granule membrane. In contrast, irrespective of cell type or zone, cells from a pheochromocytoma contained only one type of granule similar to that described for the juxtacortical region of the normal equine adrenal medulla. The tumor cells could be classified into three subtypes based on density of granule packing but the granules were morphologically similar in all tumor cells.", "PMID": 452313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10084", "title": "A lymphomatoid granulomatosis of the lungs in young dogs.", "content": "Clinical signs in three young dogs with primary lung neoplasms included cough, weight loss and anorexia. Chest radiographs taken in the terminal stages of the disease showed nodular and diffuse consolidation of the lungs typical of primary neoplasms. Macroscopically the lungs were infiltrated by firm, pale tissue; similar tissue replaced the enlarged bronchial lymph nodes. In two dogs similar deposits were found also in the liver and spleen. The infiltrates were composed of atypical, polymorphous lymphoreticular cells. Invasion of pulmonary blood vessels and of bronchi and bronchioles was striking. The lesions closely resembled those of lymphomatoid granulomatosis, a rare human disease of unknown cause.", "contents": "A lymphomatoid granulomatosis of the lungs in young dogs. Clinical signs in three young dogs with primary lung neoplasms included cough, weight loss and anorexia. Chest radiographs taken in the terminal stages of the disease showed nodular and diffuse consolidation of the lungs typical of primary neoplasms. Macroscopically the lungs were infiltrated by firm, pale tissue; similar tissue replaced the enlarged bronchial lymph nodes. In two dogs similar deposits were found also in the liver and spleen. The infiltrates were composed of atypical, polymorphous lymphoreticular cells. Invasion of pulmonary blood vessels and of bronchi and bronchioles was striking. The lesions closely resembled those of lymphomatoid granulomatosis, a rare human disease of unknown cause.", "PMID": 452314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10085", "title": "Polioencephalomyelitis in cats.", "content": "Six cats with chronic progressive neurologic signs of ataxia, paresis, tremors, pupillary abnormalities and seizures had polioencephalomyelitis of probable viral origin. Lesions were most severe in the spinal cord. The uniformity in distribution and nature of the lesions in all six cats strongly suggested a common cause. The condition was compared with other viral infections of known and unknown cause.", "contents": "Polioencephalomyelitis in cats. Six cats with chronic progressive neurologic signs of ataxia, paresis, tremors, pupillary abnormalities and seizures had polioencephalomyelitis of probable viral origin. Lesions were most severe in the spinal cord. The uniformity in distribution and nature of the lesions in all six cats strongly suggested a common cause. The condition was compared with other viral infections of known and unknown cause.", "PMID": 452315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10086", "title": "Fatal mycotic pulmonary disease of captive American alligators.", "content": "Fatal pulmonary disease occurred in two captive American alligators. The entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana, was isolated from pulmonary lesions in both alligators. An extended hibernation period because of a severe winter and a failure of the zoo heating system may have predisposed the alligators to infection.", "contents": "Fatal mycotic pulmonary disease of captive American alligators. Fatal pulmonary disease occurred in two captive American alligators. The entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana, was isolated from pulmonary lesions in both alligators. An extended hibernation period because of a severe winter and a failure of the zoo heating system may have predisposed the alligators to infection.", "PMID": 452316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10087", "title": "Ulcerative glossitis and stomatitis associated with exudative epidermitis in suckling swine.", "content": "Thirty piglets 1 to 4 weeks old from five herds had epidermal, foot, conjunctival and renal lesions typical of exudative epidermitis. Ten piglets had a large central ulceration of the dorsum of the tongue. Three piglets had multiple erosions of the hard palate and one had mucoid degeneration of the urinary bladder epithelium and a thick viscous material in the renal pelvis, ureters and urinary bladder.", "contents": "Ulcerative glossitis and stomatitis associated with exudative epidermitis in suckling swine. Thirty piglets 1 to 4 weeks old from five herds had epidermal, foot, conjunctival and renal lesions typical of exudative epidermitis. Ten piglets had a large central ulceration of the dorsum of the tongue. Three piglets had multiple erosions of the hard palate and one had mucoid degeneration of the urinary bladder epithelium and a thick viscous material in the renal pelvis, ureters and urinary bladder.", "PMID": 452317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10088", "title": "Histology of salivary gland infarction in the dog.", "content": "Salivary gland infarction was found in two adult dogs. The main changes were ischaemic necrosis, capsular fibrosis and regenerative hyperplasia of surviving ductal epithelium. Necrosis of arterial tunica media and thrombosis were found only in the infarcted parts of the salivary glands. The lesions appeared to be confined to the salivary glands; no cause of the infarction was found.", "contents": "Histology of salivary gland infarction in the dog. Salivary gland infarction was found in two adult dogs. The main changes were ischaemic necrosis, capsular fibrosis and regenerative hyperplasia of surviving ductal epithelium. Necrosis of arterial tunica media and thrombosis were found only in the infarcted parts of the salivary glands. The lesions appeared to be confined to the salivary glands; no cause of the infarction was found.", "PMID": 452318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10089", "title": "Megaloesophagus and associated gastric heterotopia in the cat.", "content": "Two young adult male Siamese cats had heterotopic gastric mucosa in the dilated and inflamed oesophagi. Normally differentiated gastric mucosal glands were present and there was severe ulceration in one cat. It is uncertain whether the gastric heterotopia was a reparative change after oesophagitis or whether it represented a coincidental anatomical anomaly.", "contents": "Megaloesophagus and associated gastric heterotopia in the cat. Two young adult male Siamese cats had heterotopic gastric mucosa in the dilated and inflamed oesophagi. Normally differentiated gastric mucosal glands were present and there was severe ulceration in one cat. It is uncertain whether the gastric heterotopia was a reparative change after oesophagitis or whether it represented a coincidental anatomical anomaly.", "PMID": 452319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10090", "title": "Studies on the pathogenesis of swine dysentery. I. Characterization of the lesions in colons and colonic segments inoculated with pure cultures or colonic content containing Treponema hyodysenteriae.", "content": "Swine dysentery was induced in pigs and in ligated colonic segments by inoculation of pure cultures of, or colonic contents containing, Treponema hyodysenteriae. The mildest changes, best seen in ligated segments 48 or 72 hours after inoculation, were congestion and leucocytic margination in mucosal capillaries and depletion of mucigen from goblet cells lining the base of the crypts of Lieberk\u00fchn. Superficial mucosal necrosis and crypt cell hyperplasia were later changes. Perfusion studies with India ink did not demonstrate occlusive mucosal ischemia in acute swine dysentery. Mucosa with lesions of swine dysentery contained at least 10(5) colony forming units of T. hyodysenteriae per gram. Mucosa without lesions had 10(5) or fewer T. hyodysenteriae per gram. Segments with acute swine dysentery were distended with clear mucoid fluid with electrolyte composition indicative of net colonic secretion. No increase in the concentration of volatile fatty acids was detected in content from intact colons or colonic segments with lesions of acute swine dysentery.", "contents": "Studies on the pathogenesis of swine dysentery. I. Characterization of the lesions in colons and colonic segments inoculated with pure cultures or colonic content containing Treponema hyodysenteriae. Swine dysentery was induced in pigs and in ligated colonic segments by inoculation of pure cultures of, or colonic contents containing, Treponema hyodysenteriae. The mildest changes, best seen in ligated segments 48 or 72 hours after inoculation, were congestion and leucocytic margination in mucosal capillaries and depletion of mucigen from goblet cells lining the base of the crypts of Lieberk\u00fchn. Superficial mucosal necrosis and crypt cell hyperplasia were later changes. Perfusion studies with India ink did not demonstrate occlusive mucosal ischemia in acute swine dysentery. Mucosa with lesions of swine dysentery contained at least 10(5) colony forming units of T. hyodysenteriae per gram. Mucosa without lesions had 10(5) or fewer T. hyodysenteriae per gram. Segments with acute swine dysentery were distended with clear mucoid fluid with electrolyte composition indicative of net colonic secretion. No increase in the concentration of volatile fatty acids was detected in content from intact colons or colonic segments with lesions of acute swine dysentery.", "PMID": 452320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10091", "title": "Porcine nephropathy induced by long-term ingestion of ochratoxin A.", "content": "Nine pigs were fed crystalline ochratoxin A in their feed at a concentration of about 1 mg/kg. Three pigs and their controls were killed after 3 months and 6 pigs and controls were killed after 2 years. A decrease of the ratio TmPAH/CIn, increased urinary glucose excretion and decreased ability to concentrate urine, occurred within a few weeks and aggravated slightly during the 2-year period. Changes in renal structure, characterized by degeneration and atrophy of proximal tubules, interstitial fibrosis and hyalinization of glomeruli, were progressive during time of exposure, but terminal renal failure was not reached. The kidney, liver, muscular and adipose tissue contained 3 to 27 microgram ochratoxin A/kg after 3 months of exposure. No further accumulation of ochratoxin A residue was found after 2 years of exposure.", "contents": "Porcine nephropathy induced by long-term ingestion of ochratoxin A. Nine pigs were fed crystalline ochratoxin A in their feed at a concentration of about 1 mg/kg. Three pigs and their controls were killed after 3 months and 6 pigs and controls were killed after 2 years. A decrease of the ratio TmPAH/CIn, increased urinary glucose excretion and decreased ability to concentrate urine, occurred within a few weeks and aggravated slightly during the 2-year period. Changes in renal structure, characterized by degeneration and atrophy of proximal tubules, interstitial fibrosis and hyalinization of glomeruli, were progressive during time of exposure, but terminal renal failure was not reached. The kidney, liver, muscular and adipose tissue contained 3 to 27 microgram ochratoxin A/kg after 3 months of exposure. No further accumulation of ochratoxin A residue was found after 2 years of exposure.", "PMID": 452321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10092", "title": "Effects of Jatropha curcas on calves.", "content": "Jatropha curcas seed was fed to six calves at doses of 2.5, 1 and 0.25 g/kg once and to two other calves at 0.025 g/kg up to 14 days. The onset of toxic manifestations in the six calves was rapid and death occurred within 19 hours of administration. The two calves that received daily the lowest dose of J. curcas showed signs of poisoning and died within 10 to 14 days. The clinical signs of diarrhoea, dyspnoea, dehydration and loss of condition were well correlated with the pathological findings. There was an increase in aspartate aminotransferase, ammonia and potassium and a decrease in total protein and calcium in the serum of jatropha-poisoned calves.", "contents": "Effects of Jatropha curcas on calves. Jatropha curcas seed was fed to six calves at doses of 2.5, 1 and 0.25 g/kg once and to two other calves at 0.025 g/kg up to 14 days. The onset of toxic manifestations in the six calves was rapid and death occurred within 19 hours of administration. The two calves that received daily the lowest dose of J. curcas showed signs of poisoning and died within 10 to 14 days. The clinical signs of diarrhoea, dyspnoea, dehydration and loss of condition were well correlated with the pathological findings. There was an increase in aspartate aminotransferase, ammonia and potassium and a decrease in total protein and calcium in the serum of jatropha-poisoned calves.", "PMID": 452322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10093", "title": "Colonic obstructions due to enteroliths in four horses.", "content": "Four cases of enterolith obstruction in horses aged from six to 14 years are reported. All four cases had symptoms of persistent low grade abdominal pain and anorexia with an absence of defaecation. Examination revealed reduced gut motility and accumulation of gas, but heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperatures and complete blood counts were all within normal limits. Enteroliths of varying sizes were removed from the region of the transverse colon in all four horses.", "contents": "Colonic obstructions due to enteroliths in four horses. Four cases of enterolith obstruction in horses aged from six to 14 years are reported. All four cases had symptoms of persistent low grade abdominal pain and anorexia with an absence of defaecation. Examination revealed reduced gut motility and accumulation of gas, but heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperatures and complete blood counts were all within normal limits. Enteroliths of varying sizes were removed from the region of the transverse colon in all four horses.", "PMID": 452325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10094", "title": "Spongy transformation of the brain in sheep with lupinosis.", "content": "Spongy transformation in the brain of sheep affected with chronic lupinosis in the field is described. Identical lesions were reproduced in sheep with experimental acute and chronic lupinosis. The primary brain lesion was vacuolation of the white matter of the brain stem with no malacia, neuronal damage or gliosis being present. The extent and severity of the vacuolation was related to the severity of the liver lesion.", "contents": "Spongy transformation of the brain in sheep with lupinosis. Spongy transformation in the brain of sheep affected with chronic lupinosis in the field is described. Identical lesions were reproduced in sheep with experimental acute and chronic lupinosis. The primary brain lesion was vacuolation of the white matter of the brain stem with no malacia, neuronal damage or gliosis being present. The extent and severity of the vacuolation was related to the severity of the liver lesion.", "PMID": 452338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10095", "title": "Experimental sarcoptes scabiei infestation in pigs: (2) Effects on production.", "content": "A study on the development and effect of experimental Sarcoptes scabiei var suis infestations in growing pigs is described. Pigs were infested at either weekly or fortnightly intervals throughout each experimental and individual growth rates and feed conversion ratios were determined. The animals were fed diets which contained either optimal or sub-optimal levels of protein. They were housed either intensively or extensively. In all experiments the majority of infested animals developed a generalised hypersensitivity to sarcoptes mites and performed significantly less efficiently than non-infested littermates. Mean growth rates were depressed from 9.2 to 12.5 per cent and feed conversion efficiencies by a similar margin. Well fed, intensively housed pigs developed a more severe hypersensitivity reaction than poorly fed, extensively housed pigs.", "contents": "Experimental sarcoptes scabiei infestation in pigs: (2) Effects on production. A study on the development and effect of experimental Sarcoptes scabiei var suis infestations in growing pigs is described. Pigs were infested at either weekly or fortnightly intervals throughout each experimental and individual growth rates and feed conversion ratios were determined. The animals were fed diets which contained either optimal or sub-optimal levels of protein. They were housed either intensively or extensively. In all experiments the majority of infested animals developed a generalised hypersensitivity to sarcoptes mites and performed significantly less efficiently than non-infested littermates. Mean growth rates were depressed from 9.2 to 12.5 per cent and feed conversion efficiencies by a similar margin. Well fed, intensively housed pigs developed a more severe hypersensitivity reaction than poorly fed, extensively housed pigs.", "PMID": 452339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10096", "title": "Mackellar Memorial Lecture. The veterinary profession in the EEC.", "content": "The European Economic Community was one of the major concerns of the later years of the late Campbell MacKellar. Besides being deeply involved in the affairs of the UEVP--the body representing the practising arm of the veterinary profession in Europe--he was one of the United Kingdom's representatives on the Federation of Veterinarians of the EEC over a period which saw that body emerge into an active pressure group with a real contribution to make to veterinary affairs within the Community. So said Alastair Porter in his introduction to the first MacKellar Memorial Lecture, which he gave last autumn. The following article is abridged from Mr Porter's address.", "contents": "Mackellar Memorial Lecture. The veterinary profession in the EEC. The European Economic Community was one of the major concerns of the later years of the late Campbell MacKellar. Besides being deeply involved in the affairs of the UEVP--the body representing the practising arm of the veterinary profession in Europe--he was one of the United Kingdom's representatives on the Federation of Veterinarians of the EEC over a period which saw that body emerge into an active pressure group with a real contribution to make to veterinary affairs within the Community. So said Alastair Porter in his introduction to the first MacKellar Memorial Lecture, which he gave last autumn. The following article is abridged from Mr Porter's address.", "PMID": 452341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10097", "title": "The use of alpha blockade in the treatment of congestive heart failure associated with dirofilariasis and mitral valvular incompetence.", "content": "Four dogs with congestive heart failure associated with dirofilariasis and mitral valvular incompetence initially responded to treatment with digoxin or etamiphylline camsylate, and frusemide but became refractory to this therapy and were in cardiac decompensation. Frusemide dosage was increased and the alpha adrenoreceptor blocking drug prazosin hydrochloride was added to the therapeutic regime. Six weeks later all dogs were stabilized and their clinical condition was markedly improved.", "contents": "The use of alpha blockade in the treatment of congestive heart failure associated with dirofilariasis and mitral valvular incompetence. Four dogs with congestive heart failure associated with dirofilariasis and mitral valvular incompetence initially responded to treatment with digoxin or etamiphylline camsylate, and frusemide but became refractory to this therapy and were in cardiac decompensation. Frusemide dosage was increased and the alpha adrenoreceptor blocking drug prazosin hydrochloride was added to the therapeutic regime. Six weeks later all dogs were stabilized and their clinical condition was markedly improved.", "PMID": 452344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10098", "title": "Ischaemic necrosis of the navicular bone and its treatment.", "content": "In a survey of 95 control horses and 16 horses with navicular disease, the incidence of erosions and discoloration of the flexor cartilage of the navicular bone was no different between the control horses and those with navicular disease. All cases of navicular disease showed thrombosis of the distal navicular nutrient arteries and this could be related to a change to a rounded or flask shape of the distal nutrient foramen of the navicular bone. Erosions and discoloration of the navicular bone are therefore of no significance in navicular disease. Previously described lines of treatment are of little value in the treatment of navicular disease. Preliminary experience with the use of anticoagulant therapy may indicate another alternative form of treatment, but the long term results have yet to be assessed.", "contents": "Ischaemic necrosis of the navicular bone and its treatment. In a survey of 95 control horses and 16 horses with navicular disease, the incidence of erosions and discoloration of the flexor cartilage of the navicular bone was no different between the control horses and those with navicular disease. All cases of navicular disease showed thrombosis of the distal navicular nutrient arteries and this could be related to a change to a rounded or flask shape of the distal nutrient foramen of the navicular bone. Erosions and discoloration of the navicular bone are therefore of no significance in navicular disease. Previously described lines of treatment are of little value in the treatment of navicular disease. Preliminary experience with the use of anticoagulant therapy may indicate another alternative form of treatment, but the long term results have yet to be assessed.", "PMID": 452348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10099", "title": "Cervical vertebral instability (wobbler syndrome) in the dog.", "content": "Observations on a series of 38 cases (35 Doberman Pinschers and three Great Danes) of the canine wobbler syndrome are described. Radiographic examinations suggested that the primary lesion is an intervertebral instability at C6/7, but with time, secondary changes of the disc degeneration and prolapse and vertebral body malformation causing stenosis of the vertebral canal occur. Cases detected at a young age and showing only the primary lesion were treated successfully, by disc fenestration alone or by disc fenestration and intervertebral screwing. The success rate in older cases with secondary lesions was poor and in this type of case, cord decompression by dorsal laminectomy appears necessary.", "contents": "Cervical vertebral instability (wobbler syndrome) in the dog. Observations on a series of 38 cases (35 Doberman Pinschers and three Great Danes) of the canine wobbler syndrome are described. Radiographic examinations suggested that the primary lesion is an intervertebral instability at C6/7, but with time, secondary changes of the disc degeneration and prolapse and vertebral body malformation causing stenosis of the vertebral canal occur. Cases detected at a young age and showing only the primary lesion were treated successfully, by disc fenestration alone or by disc fenestration and intervertebral screwing. The success rate in older cases with secondary lesions was poor and in this type of case, cord decompression by dorsal laminectomy appears necessary.", "PMID": 452350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10100", "title": "A survey of gastro intestinal helminth parasites of stray dogs in Zaria, Nigeria.", "content": "A survey of helminth parasites in stray dogs was carried out in the Zaria area. Out of 180 dogs examined 65.6 per cent (118/180) were found positive for Ancylostoma caninum, while Toxocara canis and Trichuris vulpis were detected in 41.1 per cent (74/180) and 13.9 per cent (25/180) respectively. Other helminth parasites found Taenia ovis 35 per cent (63/180) Taenia hydatigena 67.8 per cent (122/180), Echinococcus granulosus 0.006 per cent (1/180) and Dipylidium caninum 97.8 per cent (176/180).", "contents": "A survey of gastro intestinal helminth parasites of stray dogs in Zaria, Nigeria. A survey of helminth parasites in stray dogs was carried out in the Zaria area. Out of 180 dogs examined 65.6 per cent (118/180) were found positive for Ancylostoma caninum, while Toxocara canis and Trichuris vulpis were detected in 41.1 per cent (74/180) and 13.9 per cent (25/180) respectively. Other helminth parasites found Taenia ovis 35 per cent (63/180) Taenia hydatigena 67.8 per cent (122/180), Echinococcus granulosus 0.006 per cent (1/180) and Dipylidium caninum 97.8 per cent (176/180).", "PMID": 452351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10101", "title": "[Effect of precipitating antibodies to pancreatic kallikrein on arginine esterase contact activation in human and rabbit blood].", "content": "Effect of precipitating antibodies against pig pancreatic kallikrein on the BAEE-esterase activity was studied in human blood plasma and in rabbit blood serum, activated by kaolin. An inhibitory effect of the antibodies on the increased BAEE-esterase activity was observed within the first minute of incubation after treatment with kaolin. The inhibition of the BAEE-esterase activity constituted 65.1% in human blood plasma and 40.9% in rabbit serum. Possible mechanism is discussed on the inhibition of contact activation of arginine esterase in human and rabbit blood by antibodies against pancreatic kallikrein.", "contents": "[Effect of precipitating antibodies to pancreatic kallikrein on arginine esterase contact activation in human and rabbit blood]. Effect of precipitating antibodies against pig pancreatic kallikrein on the BAEE-esterase activity was studied in human blood plasma and in rabbit blood serum, activated by kaolin. An inhibitory effect of the antibodies on the increased BAEE-esterase activity was observed within the first minute of incubation after treatment with kaolin. The inhibition of the BAEE-esterase activity constituted 65.1% in human blood plasma and 40.9% in rabbit serum. Possible mechanism is discussed on the inhibition of contact activation of arginine esterase in human and rabbit blood by antibodies against pancreatic kallikrein.", "PMID": 452486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10102", "title": "[Participation of protein-lipid complexes in the mineralization of dental enamel].", "content": "Insoluble complex protein-lipid-calcium phosphate was formed on neutralization of dental enamel solution. Nonpolar lipids were extracted by chloroform-methanol mixture; the phospholipids maintained their connection with the solid phase. After incubation of the enamel precipitate with an anionic detergent the enamel protein became solubilized and was studied by means of electrophoresis. The role of proteins and lipids in calcification of the dental enamel is discussed. Biological calcification appears to operate via a universal mechanism, as evidenced by similarity in molecular structures of organic mixtures of various mineralized tissues.", "contents": "[Participation of protein-lipid complexes in the mineralization of dental enamel]. Insoluble complex protein-lipid-calcium phosphate was formed on neutralization of dental enamel solution. Nonpolar lipids were extracted by chloroform-methanol mixture; the phospholipids maintained their connection with the solid phase. After incubation of the enamel precipitate with an anionic detergent the enamel protein became solubilized and was studied by means of electrophoresis. The role of proteins and lipids in calcification of the dental enamel is discussed. Biological calcification appears to operate via a universal mechanism, as evidenced by similarity in molecular structures of organic mixtures of various mineralized tissues.", "PMID": 452488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10103", "title": "[Use of alpha-ketobutyrate for the differential determination of the activities of lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme subunits].", "content": "Estimation of alpha-ketobutyrate dehydrogenase activity might be used for quantitative evaluation of LDH isozyme subunits H and M. Empiric constants, which are included in equations for calculation of the activity of subunits and applied for purified human LDH isoenzymes, were not altered in presence of blood serum and were quite reproducible from day to day. Reliability of quantitative differentiation of the activities of H and M subunits by means of alpha-ketobutyrate was demonstrated by analyses of standard LDH isoenzyme mixtures as well as normal and pathological blood sera with typical patterns of LDH isoenzymes. Estimation of activity of the LDH isoenzyme subunits using alpha-ketobutyrat e proved to be rapid, simple and unexpensive method for determination of LDH isoenzyme spectra in physiological fluids.", "contents": "[Use of alpha-ketobutyrate for the differential determination of the activities of lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme subunits]. Estimation of alpha-ketobutyrate dehydrogenase activity might be used for quantitative evaluation of LDH isozyme subunits H and M. Empiric constants, which are included in equations for calculation of the activity of subunits and applied for purified human LDH isoenzymes, were not altered in presence of blood serum and were quite reproducible from day to day. Reliability of quantitative differentiation of the activities of H and M subunits by means of alpha-ketobutyrate was demonstrated by analyses of standard LDH isoenzyme mixtures as well as normal and pathological blood sera with typical patterns of LDH isoenzymes. Estimation of activity of the LDH isoenzyme subunits using alpha-ketobutyrat e proved to be rapid, simple and unexpensive method for determination of LDH isoenzyme spectra in physiological fluids.", "PMID": 452487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10104", "title": "[Changes in the noradrenaline content in the rabbit myocardium in electrostimulation of the aortic arch].", "content": "Excessive stimulation of reflexogenic zone of rabbit aortic arch resulted in impairments of noradrenaline tissue reserves in heart muscle. Administration of one of the precursors of noradrenaline l-DOPA not only prevented the decrease in tissue noradrenaline content in myocardium, but restored completely its reserves, exhausted by electrostimulation of the aortic arch.", "contents": "[Changes in the noradrenaline content in the rabbit myocardium in electrostimulation of the aortic arch]. Excessive stimulation of reflexogenic zone of rabbit aortic arch resulted in impairments of noradrenaline tissue reserves in heart muscle. Administration of one of the precursors of noradrenaline l-DOPA not only prevented the decrease in tissue noradrenaline content in myocardium, but restored completely its reserves, exhausted by electrostimulation of the aortic arch.", "PMID": 452490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10105", "title": "[Zinc- and copper-containing superoxide dismutase activity in rat tissues normally and in hypoxia].", "content": "Acute hypoxic hypoxia caused a distinct decrease in activity of Zn2+, Cu2+-containing superoxide dismutase in cytosols of rat liver and brain tissues and less distinct--in liver mitochondria and microsomes, brain mitochondria and blood plasma. On the basis of the data published in the literature, hypoxic inhibition of the enzyme appears to be the significant reason for the posthypoxic activation of synglete-oxygen pathway of lipid peroxidation in tissues, enriched with catalase [liver, kidney, blood ] as well as of hydroxyl-radical pathway of peroxidation in tissues with the low catalase activity [brain, heart, lungs].", "contents": "[Zinc- and copper-containing superoxide dismutase activity in rat tissues normally and in hypoxia]. Acute hypoxic hypoxia caused a distinct decrease in activity of Zn2+, Cu2+-containing superoxide dismutase in cytosols of rat liver and brain tissues and less distinct--in liver mitochondria and microsomes, brain mitochondria and blood plasma. On the basis of the data published in the literature, hypoxic inhibition of the enzyme appears to be the significant reason for the posthypoxic activation of synglete-oxygen pathway of lipid peroxidation in tissues, enriched with catalase [liver, kidney, blood ] as well as of hydroxyl-radical pathway of peroxidation in tissues with the low catalase activity [brain, heart, lungs].", "PMID": 452489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10106", "title": "[Effect of anabolic steroid hormones on protein and lipid metabolic indices in thermal injury].", "content": "Burns of 20% of rat skin caused a decrease in content of albumins and gamma-globulins in blood and simultaneous increase in content of alpha 1- and alpha 2-globulins. Content C17 : 1 and C19 : 1 monoenoic fatty acids was decreased in blood and liver tissue of the rats with burns. These patterns were normalized after administration into the animals of synthetic anabolic steroid nerobolyl at a dose 5 mg/kg. Burning castrated male rats led to a decrease in concentration of albumins, alpha 1- and alpha 2-globulins in blood with simultaneous increase of monoenoic fatty acids in blood and liver tissue. Nerobolyl normalized these patterns at a dose 20 mg/kg, while a dose 5 mg/kg was distinctly less effective.", "contents": "[Effect of anabolic steroid hormones on protein and lipid metabolic indices in thermal injury]. Burns of 20% of rat skin caused a decrease in content of albumins and gamma-globulins in blood and simultaneous increase in content of alpha 1- and alpha 2-globulins. Content C17 : 1 and C19 : 1 monoenoic fatty acids was decreased in blood and liver tissue of the rats with burns. These patterns were normalized after administration into the animals of synthetic anabolic steroid nerobolyl at a dose 5 mg/kg. Burning castrated male rats led to a decrease in concentration of albumins, alpha 1- and alpha 2-globulins in blood with simultaneous increase of monoenoic fatty acids in blood and liver tissue. Nerobolyl normalized these patterns at a dose 20 mg/kg, while a dose 5 mg/kg was distinctly less effective.", "PMID": 452491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10107", "title": "[Selection of preparations with anticipated antiestrogen activity].", "content": "Specificity of interaction between estrogen-receptor systems of guinea pig uterus and oviducts and six estrogens was studied. The obtained datas suggest existence of tissue specificity in estrogen-receptor interaction in uterus and oviducts. Modifications of the steroid molecule led to decrease in extent of estrogen affinity. Introduction of an ethyl group into 17 alpha-position resulted in the effect, by the rate of estrogen-receptor binding equal to reduction of 17 beta-hydroxyl. Low but distinct affinity of 17 alpha-estradiol, its structure and stability, enabled to select this substance as a preparation with anticipated anti-estrogenic activity.", "contents": "[Selection of preparations with anticipated antiestrogen activity]. Specificity of interaction between estrogen-receptor systems of guinea pig uterus and oviducts and six estrogens was studied. The obtained datas suggest existence of tissue specificity in estrogen-receptor interaction in uterus and oviducts. Modifications of the steroid molecule led to decrease in extent of estrogen affinity. Introduction of an ethyl group into 17 alpha-position resulted in the effect, by the rate of estrogen-receptor binding equal to reduction of 17 beta-hydroxyl. Low but distinct affinity of 17 alpha-estradiol, its structure and stability, enabled to select this substance as a preparation with anticipated anti-estrogenic activity.", "PMID": 452493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10108", "title": "[Factors affecting the DNA-binding activity of the blood serum in in patients and healthy persons at low ionic strength].", "content": "Interaction of blood serum proteins with native DNA at low ionic strength [0.05 M NaCl and 0.015 M sodium citrate], estimated by adsorption of DNA-protein complex on nitrocellulose filtrs, depended on specific activity, molecular weight of DNA as well as on the amount of DNA and blood serum in the samples. DNA-binding activity of blood serum from the patients should be estimated at such ratio of components, when the blood serum from healthy persons adsorbed minimal quantities of DNA, since the molecular weight and specific activity of the DNA preparations might vary in various samples. As a factor, regulating the rate of DNA binding on filtrs, such amount of blood serum from patients should be added to the samples, which corresponded to the maximal amount of normal blood serum causing no binding with the DNA preparations.", "contents": "[Factors affecting the DNA-binding activity of the blood serum in in patients and healthy persons at low ionic strength]. Interaction of blood serum proteins with native DNA at low ionic strength [0.05 M NaCl and 0.015 M sodium citrate], estimated by adsorption of DNA-protein complex on nitrocellulose filtrs, depended on specific activity, molecular weight of DNA as well as on the amount of DNA and blood serum in the samples. DNA-binding activity of blood serum from the patients should be estimated at such ratio of components, when the blood serum from healthy persons adsorbed minimal quantities of DNA, since the molecular weight and specific activity of the DNA preparations might vary in various samples. As a factor, regulating the rate of DNA binding on filtrs, such amount of blood serum from patients should be added to the samples, which corresponded to the maximal amount of normal blood serum causing no binding with the DNA preparations.", "PMID": 452492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10109", "title": "[Preparation of monospecific antibodies to A-protein and an immunochemical study of its distribution in normal and tumorous tissues].", "content": "Monospecific antibodies against A-protein from rat liver cytosol were prepared. Complete nonidentity was established in comparison of the A-protein and ligandin, which was similar to A-protein in binding properties. Besides, A-protein found in cytosol of liver tissue was present in cytosol of small intestine. It was not found in the cytosol of other 17 tissues. A-protein appeared in ontogenesis earlier than ligandin: its concentration sharply increased in rat embryonal liver within 16--18 day of gestation. Level of A-protein was decreased 2--4-fold in primary rat hepatomas. A-protein and ligandin are the isoforms of binding proteins, which characterize different steps of the differentiation of the hepatocytes.", "contents": "[Preparation of monospecific antibodies to A-protein and an immunochemical study of its distribution in normal and tumorous tissues]. Monospecific antibodies against A-protein from rat liver cytosol were prepared. Complete nonidentity was established in comparison of the A-protein and ligandin, which was similar to A-protein in binding properties. Besides, A-protein found in cytosol of liver tissue was present in cytosol of small intestine. It was not found in the cytosol of other 17 tissues. A-protein appeared in ontogenesis earlier than ligandin: its concentration sharply increased in rat embryonal liver within 16--18 day of gestation. Level of A-protein was decreased 2--4-fold in primary rat hepatomas. A-protein and ligandin are the isoforms of binding proteins, which characterize different steps of the differentiation of the hepatocytes.", "PMID": 452495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10110", "title": "[Activity of Krebs cycle oxidative enzymes in the brain in hypothermia].", "content": "Cooling of rats down to the rectal temperature of 33--35 degrees without the use of narcotic and neuroplegic drugs did not cause distinct alterations in activity of the oxidative enzymes of tricarboxylic acid cycle--isocitrate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, malate-, succinate- and pyruvate dehydrogenases in brain tissue. At the same time, inhibition of the activity of these dehydrogenases occurred in profound hypothermia (cooling to 19--20 degrees). In this case the activity of succinate dehydrogenase was decreased less distinctly as compared with the activity of NAD-dependent dehydrogenases. Succinic acid appears to be an especially important substrate for oxidation in brain of the chilled rats.", "contents": "[Activity of Krebs cycle oxidative enzymes in the brain in hypothermia]. Cooling of rats down to the rectal temperature of 33--35 degrees without the use of narcotic and neuroplegic drugs did not cause distinct alterations in activity of the oxidative enzymes of tricarboxylic acid cycle--isocitrate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, malate-, succinate- and pyruvate dehydrogenases in brain tissue. At the same time, inhibition of the activity of these dehydrogenases occurred in profound hypothermia (cooling to 19--20 degrees). In this case the activity of succinate dehydrogenase was decreased less distinctly as compared with the activity of NAD-dependent dehydrogenases. Succinic acid appears to be an especially important substrate for oxidation in brain of the chilled rats.", "PMID": 452497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10111", "title": "[Physicochemical aspects of the mechanism of the mineralization of epiphyseal cartilage in enchondral osteogenesis].", "content": "Mechanism of epiphysial cartliage mineralization is considered in terms of ion exchange concepts. Chondroitin-sulfate of matrix, which is a polyelectrolyte, served as a donor od calcium ions. Pericellular zone of matrix is considered as a semipermeable membrane. The energetic basis of the process is provided by interacellular glycogenolysis in chondrocytes, entering the zone of mineralization. High concentration of glucose in lacunas of chondrocytes led to osmotic transport of water from matrix to lacunas, causing an increase in concentration of ions in free volume of the matrix. Due to ion exchange release of calcium ions occurred from the phase of polyelectrolyte into the free volume, where the state of saturation was achieved and dicalcium phosphate CaHPO4 was precipitated. Stereologic studies of epiphysial cartilage, simulation experiments and calculations corroborate the mechanism of mineralization advanced.", "contents": "[Physicochemical aspects of the mechanism of the mineralization of epiphyseal cartilage in enchondral osteogenesis]. Mechanism of epiphysial cartliage mineralization is considered in terms of ion exchange concepts. Chondroitin-sulfate of matrix, which is a polyelectrolyte, served as a donor od calcium ions. Pericellular zone of matrix is considered as a semipermeable membrane. The energetic basis of the process is provided by interacellular glycogenolysis in chondrocytes, entering the zone of mineralization. High concentration of glucose in lacunas of chondrocytes led to osmotic transport of water from matrix to lacunas, causing an increase in concentration of ions in free volume of the matrix. Due to ion exchange release of calcium ions occurred from the phase of polyelectrolyte into the free volume, where the state of saturation was achieved and dicalcium phosphate CaHPO4 was precipitated. Stereologic studies of epiphysial cartilage, simulation experiments and calculations corroborate the mechanism of mineralization advanced.", "PMID": 452496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10112", "title": "[Importance of the initial monoamine oxidase activity for the development of the activating or inhibiting action of indolylhydrazides].", "content": "Effects of beta-(2-methyl indolyl-3) propionic acid hydrazide and alpha-butyl-beta-(2-methyl-5-carboxy indolyl-3) propionic acid hydrazide on the activity of monoamine oxidase were studied in rat brain in vitro. The compounds activated distinctly serotonin deamination under conditions of the enzyme inhibition, caused by pretreatment with iproniazide. The activation occurred only in the samples, which were not inhibited with iproniazide. The treatment with iproniazide prevented any alterations in content of amines, caused by the compounds in the rat brain in vivo.", "contents": "[Importance of the initial monoamine oxidase activity for the development of the activating or inhibiting action of indolylhydrazides]. Effects of beta-(2-methyl indolyl-3) propionic acid hydrazide and alpha-butyl-beta-(2-methyl-5-carboxy indolyl-3) propionic acid hydrazide on the activity of monoamine oxidase were studied in rat brain in vitro. The compounds activated distinctly serotonin deamination under conditions of the enzyme inhibition, caused by pretreatment with iproniazide. The activation occurred only in the samples, which were not inhibited with iproniazide. The treatment with iproniazide prevented any alterations in content of amines, caused by the compounds in the rat brain in vivo.", "PMID": 452498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10113", "title": "[Physiological activity of kappa-casein glycomacropeptide].", "content": "Low molecular peptide fragment [molecular weight 700-2,000] was isolated from the preparation of k-caseine glycomacropeptide using gel chromotography on Sephadex G-25 superfine. After intravenous administration the peptide inhibited gastric secretion more distinctly as compared with the initial preparation. The data obtained suggest that the inhibitory effect of glycomacropeptide was caused by fragment but not by the whole molecule.", "contents": "[Physiological activity of kappa-casein glycomacropeptide]. Low molecular peptide fragment [molecular weight 700-2,000] was isolated from the preparation of k-caseine glycomacropeptide using gel chromotography on Sephadex G-25 superfine. After intravenous administration the peptide inhibited gastric secretion more distinctly as compared with the initial preparation. The data obtained suggest that the inhibitory effect of glycomacropeptide was caused by fragment but not by the whole molecule.", "PMID": 452502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10114", "title": "[Type A and B monoamine oxidase activity in hyperbaric oxygenation].", "content": "Substrate specificity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) of the A type from rat brain and liver tissues was altered after exposure of rats to an increased oxygen pressure [4 ati O2, 1 hr]. Simultaneously with a decrease in monoamine deaminating activity the enzyme acquired an ability to deaminate several substances, which are not MAO substrates in normal state, in particular, aminosugars. Activity of MAO of the B type was not altered in brain under hyperoxia. Alterations in catalytic properties of MAO of the A type were apparently important in development of the oxygen intoxication.", "contents": "[Type A and B monoamine oxidase activity in hyperbaric oxygenation]. Substrate specificity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) of the A type from rat brain and liver tissues was altered after exposure of rats to an increased oxygen pressure [4 ati O2, 1 hr]. Simultaneously with a decrease in monoamine deaminating activity the enzyme acquired an ability to deaminate several substances, which are not MAO substrates in normal state, in particular, aminosugars. Activity of MAO of the B type was not altered in brain under hyperoxia. Alterations in catalytic properties of MAO of the A type were apparently important in development of the oxygen intoxication.", "PMID": 452501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10115", "title": "[Hepatotoxicity of the lipid components of the lipopolyysaccharides from typhoid bacteria].", "content": "Distinct increase in amount of total lipids occurred in mice liver tissue after intraperitoneal administration of typhoid lipids A and B (the latter was nonhydrolytically isolated from typhoid lipopolysaccharides). The alteration referred primarily to neutral lipids, especially to triacyl glycerides, content of which exceeded 3- and more-fold the initial one to the end of a day. The similarity was observed in alteration of triacyl glycerides, phospho- and glycolipids in presence of both lipid preparations. These lipid components resembled intact lipopolysaccharide from typhoid bacteria in their effect on content of lipids in liver tissue. In treatment with these lipid preparations concentration of NEFA was either unaltered or distinctly decreased.", "contents": "[Hepatotoxicity of the lipid components of the lipopolyysaccharides from typhoid bacteria]. Distinct increase in amount of total lipids occurred in mice liver tissue after intraperitoneal administration of typhoid lipids A and B (the latter was nonhydrolytically isolated from typhoid lipopolysaccharides). The alteration referred primarily to neutral lipids, especially to triacyl glycerides, content of which exceeded 3- and more-fold the initial one to the end of a day. The similarity was observed in alteration of triacyl glycerides, phospho- and glycolipids in presence of both lipid preparations. These lipid components resembled intact lipopolysaccharide from typhoid bacteria in their effect on content of lipids in liver tissue. In treatment with these lipid preparations concentration of NEFA was either unaltered or distinctly decreased.", "PMID": 452500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10116", "title": "[Arachidonic acid biosynthesis in the rat small intestine].", "content": "Ability of epithelium of rat small intestine mucose to synthetize arachidonic acid was studied in vivo and in vitro. Linoleic acid and 2-14C-acetate were used as precursors. The fatty acids were fractionated using thin-layer chromatography on silica gel impregnated with AgNO3. The label was incorporated into all the fractions but the highest radioactivity was found in the fraction of arachidonic acid; this suggests that the enzyme systems, carrying out the synthesis of polyenic fatty acids, occur in the mucosa of small intestine.", "contents": "[Arachidonic acid biosynthesis in the rat small intestine]. Ability of epithelium of rat small intestine mucose to synthetize arachidonic acid was studied in vivo and in vitro. Linoleic acid and 2-14C-acetate were used as precursors. The fatty acids were fractionated using thin-layer chromatography on silica gel impregnated with AgNO3. The label was incorporated into all the fractions but the highest radioactivity was found in the fraction of arachidonic acid; this suggests that the enzyme systems, carrying out the synthesis of polyenic fatty acids, occur in the mucosa of small intestine.", "PMID": 452499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10117", "title": "[Methodological variants of neuroleptanalgesia (author's transl)].", "content": "A survey is presented of the variations of neuroleptanalgesia. Modification of the injection technique, the hypnotic, the analgesic or the neuroleptic partial effect of the drug combinations produces four variations. The principles of the classical type of neuroleptanalgesia, namely the ability to selectively influence the single components of anaesthesia and the predominant use of a strong analgesic must remain unaltered in the definition of a variant. The use of clear nomenclature is used in an attempt to overcome the confusion which still exists in this field.", "contents": "[Methodological variants of neuroleptanalgesia (author's transl)]. A survey is presented of the variations of neuroleptanalgesia. Modification of the injection technique, the hypnotic, the analgesic or the neuroleptic partial effect of the drug combinations produces four variations. The principles of the classical type of neuroleptanalgesia, namely the ability to selectively influence the single components of anaesthesia and the predominant use of a strong analgesic must remain unaltered in the definition of a variant. The use of clear nomenclature is used in an attempt to overcome the confusion which still exists in this field.", "PMID": 452601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10118", "title": "[The combined treatment of Parkinson's disease with L-dopa plus decarboxylase inhibitors (carbidopa, benserazide) (author's transl)].", "content": "An open cross-over study of 20 patients with Parkinson's disease performed with two drugs containing L-dopa and a peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor (benserazide, carbidopa) confirmed the conclusions reached in other clinical trials that this combined treatment of Parkinson's disease is the most effective form of drug therapy available at present. With both drugs, Madopar or Sinemet, an optimum therapeutic result was obtained with relatively small doses of L-dopa (the reduction in L-dopa dosage amounting to about 80%). A loss of efficacy with both drugs, which has observed during long-term treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease, could be avoided by switching the patients from Sinemet to Madopar and vice versa. Determination of L-dopa in the plasma demonstrated that with either drug similar plasma levels of L-dopa were achieved during clinically effective treatment.", "contents": "[The combined treatment of Parkinson's disease with L-dopa plus decarboxylase inhibitors (carbidopa, benserazide) (author's transl)]. An open cross-over study of 20 patients with Parkinson's disease performed with two drugs containing L-dopa and a peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor (benserazide, carbidopa) confirmed the conclusions reached in other clinical trials that this combined treatment of Parkinson's disease is the most effective form of drug therapy available at present. With both drugs, Madopar or Sinemet, an optimum therapeutic result was obtained with relatively small doses of L-dopa (the reduction in L-dopa dosage amounting to about 80%). A loss of efficacy with both drugs, which has observed during long-term treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease, could be avoided by switching the patients from Sinemet to Madopar and vice versa. Determination of L-dopa in the plasma demonstrated that with either drug similar plasma levels of L-dopa were achieved during clinically effective treatment.", "PMID": 452602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10119", "title": "[Cerebral manifestation in a case of Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of Sj\u00f6gren's disease is described in which isolated cerebellar symptoms were prominent. Serological investigations gave no evidence of disseminated immune vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus or any other autoimmune disease. The cerebrospinal fluid protein changes, which were diagnostic of an autoimmune process in the CNS and suggestive of Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome are discussed.", "contents": "[Cerebral manifestation in a case of Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome (author's transl)]. A case of Sj\u00f6gren's disease is described in which isolated cerebellar symptoms were prominent. Serological investigations gave no evidence of disseminated immune vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus or any other autoimmune disease. The cerebrospinal fluid protein changes, which were diagnostic of an autoimmune process in the CNS and suggestive of Sj\u00f6gren's syndrome are discussed.", "PMID": 452603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10120", "title": "[Relationship between loss of sight and mortality in diabetics with retinopathy (a retrospective study over the terminal 5 years) (author's transl)].", "content": "1642 diabetics with retinopathy were controlled at half-yearly intervals over 4 to 10 years (6 years on average) using fundus photography, fluoresceinangiography and measurement of visual acuity. 83 of these patients died and the data documented in 43 patients over a mean period of 5.2 years prior to death allowed a retrospective evaluation of the clinical findings and therapeutic results. 27 patients had undergone bilateral and 16 unilateral photocoagulation at the beginning of the observation period. 9 patients were blind already at the outset. Of 13 patients who became blind during the observation period 10 had not undergone photocoagulation of the affected eye. The time span between blindness and death was shorter (1.5 years) in the 3 patients (5 eyes) who had undergone photocoagulation than in the untreated diabetics (4.3 years). All 23 patients in whom the initial visual acuity was maintained had undergone photocoagulation. Presence of florid diabetic retinopathy or nephropathy adversely influenced the results of photocoagulation.", "contents": "[Relationship between loss of sight and mortality in diabetics with retinopathy (a retrospective study over the terminal 5 years) (author's transl)]. 1642 diabetics with retinopathy were controlled at half-yearly intervals over 4 to 10 years (6 years on average) using fundus photography, fluoresceinangiography and measurement of visual acuity. 83 of these patients died and the data documented in 43 patients over a mean period of 5.2 years prior to death allowed a retrospective evaluation of the clinical findings and therapeutic results. 27 patients had undergone bilateral and 16 unilateral photocoagulation at the beginning of the observation period. 9 patients were blind already at the outset. Of 13 patients who became blind during the observation period 10 had not undergone photocoagulation of the affected eye. The time span between blindness and death was shorter (1.5 years) in the 3 patients (5 eyes) who had undergone photocoagulation than in the untreated diabetics (4.3 years). All 23 patients in whom the initial visual acuity was maintained had undergone photocoagulation. Presence of florid diabetic retinopathy or nephropathy adversely influenced the results of photocoagulation.", "PMID": 452605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10121", "title": "[Renal carcinoma (author's transl)].", "content": "A brief discussion of the epidemiology and aetiology of renal carcinoma is followed by a description of the clinical features. Attention is drawn to the significance of haematuria, especially microhaematuria and the para-neoplastic syndrome (toxic and endocrine tumour effect) in establishing an early diagnosis. Intravenous urography still remains the most important diagnostic procedure, whilst renal angiography is indispensable for the precise definition of tumour localization and extension. It is possible to solve most of the problems of differential diagnosis (primarily distinguishing between cyst and tumour) by means of renal angiography and sonography. Therapy is still based on surgical treatment, transperitoneal, \"radical\" tumour extirpation leading to an improvement in the results in about 15% of the cases, especially in stages III and IV. A 5-year survival rate may be expected in 60 to 70% of stage I and stage II cases, in about 40% of stage III and only a few percent of stage IV cases. Cytostatic therapy offers no improvement in results at the moment. Irradiation before and after surgical treatment, as well as hormonal medication produces a modest rise in the 5-year survival rate. The decisive factor is early diagnosis of renal carcinoma, because about half of all patients show evidence of metastasis already at the first examination.", "contents": "[Renal carcinoma (author's transl)]. A brief discussion of the epidemiology and aetiology of renal carcinoma is followed by a description of the clinical features. Attention is drawn to the significance of haematuria, especially microhaematuria and the para-neoplastic syndrome (toxic and endocrine tumour effect) in establishing an early diagnosis. Intravenous urography still remains the most important diagnostic procedure, whilst renal angiography is indispensable for the precise definition of tumour localization and extension. It is possible to solve most of the problems of differential diagnosis (primarily distinguishing between cyst and tumour) by means of renal angiography and sonography. Therapy is still based on surgical treatment, transperitoneal, \"radical\" tumour extirpation leading to an improvement in the results in about 15% of the cases, especially in stages III and IV. A 5-year survival rate may be expected in 60 to 70% of stage I and stage II cases, in about 40% of stage III and only a few percent of stage IV cases. Cytostatic therapy offers no improvement in results at the moment. Irradiation before and after surgical treatment, as well as hormonal medication produces a modest rise in the 5-year survival rate. The decisive factor is early diagnosis of renal carcinoma, because about half of all patients show evidence of metastasis already at the first examination.", "PMID": 452607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10122", "title": "[Two cases of primary sclerosing cholangitis (author's transl)].", "content": "Two patients with symptoms of progressive obstructive jaundice, a history of vague pains in the right upper quadrant and laboratory evidence of biliary obstruction underwent laparotomy. A stone-free, but extremely thick-walled gallbladder was found in both patients. Intraoperative cholangiography showed diffusely-stenosed extrahepatic bile ducts suggestive of chronic inflammatory changes in the biliary system. The correct diagnosis was made only on histological examination, which revealed primary sclerosing cholangitis with secondary cholestatic changes of the liver. Postoperative treatment included long-time corticosteroid therapy. Both patients have remained jaundice-free for periods of one and two years, respectively, to date, but the eventual prognosis is poor. The diagnosis, which can be made only surgically, therapy and prognosis are discussed.", "contents": "[Two cases of primary sclerosing cholangitis (author's transl)]. Two patients with symptoms of progressive obstructive jaundice, a history of vague pains in the right upper quadrant and laboratory evidence of biliary obstruction underwent laparotomy. A stone-free, but extremely thick-walled gallbladder was found in both patients. Intraoperative cholangiography showed diffusely-stenosed extrahepatic bile ducts suggestive of chronic inflammatory changes in the biliary system. The correct diagnosis was made only on histological examination, which revealed primary sclerosing cholangitis with secondary cholestatic changes of the liver. Postoperative treatment included long-time corticosteroid therapy. Both patients have remained jaundice-free for periods of one and two years, respectively, to date, but the eventual prognosis is poor. The diagnosis, which can be made only surgically, therapy and prognosis are discussed.", "PMID": 452608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10123", "title": "[Factor XIII and the risk of postoperative impaired wound healing and bleeding (author's transl)].", "content": "Factor XIII concentration was investigated pre- and postoperatively in the plasma of 139 patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Postoperative complications (impairment of wound healing and haemorrhage) were significantly more frequently seen in patients with a low concentration of factor XIII. A low preoperative concentration of factor XIII can be interpreted as a high risk factor.", "contents": "[Factor XIII and the risk of postoperative impaired wound healing and bleeding (author's transl)]. Factor XIII concentration was investigated pre- and postoperatively in the plasma of 139 patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Postoperative complications (impairment of wound healing and haemorrhage) were significantly more frequently seen in patients with a low concentration of factor XIII. A low preoperative concentration of factor XIII can be interpreted as a high risk factor.", "PMID": 452609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10124", "title": "[Reoperation on the biliary tract (author's transl)].", "content": "A report is given on 154 patients subjected to reoperation of the biliary tract, including 19 cases of stricture to complete destruction of the common bile duct. The preoperative findings, indications, methods of operation and late results are described and discussed.", "contents": "[Reoperation on the biliary tract (author's transl)]. A report is given on 154 patients subjected to reoperation of the biliary tract, including 19 cases of stricture to complete destruction of the common bile duct. The preoperative findings, indications, methods of operation and late results are described and discussed.", "PMID": 452610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10125", "title": "[Periathritis of the sesamoid bone of the metatarso-phalangeal joint of the large toe (author's transl)].", "content": "Several cases serve to illustrate the clinical features of calcifying periarthrosis of small sesamoid bones described in this report. Osteomalacia of sesamoid bones must be considered in the differential diagnosis.", "contents": "[Periathritis of the sesamoid bone of the metatarso-phalangeal joint of the large toe (author's transl)]. Several cases serve to illustrate the clinical features of calcifying periarthrosis of small sesamoid bones described in this report. Osteomalacia of sesamoid bones must be considered in the differential diagnosis.", "PMID": 452611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10126", "title": "[Advances in the field of surgical therapy of strabismus (author's transl)].", "content": "During the past 10 years the surgical treatment of strabismus has received different new impulses. Two fundamental novelties in this field have been reported and three not unimportant contributions towards the facilitation of, or improvement in therapy: C\u00fcppers described a method to improve and/or eliminate the dynamic squinting angle in cases of ocular nystagmus by the so-called \"Fadenoperation\" and Aichmair demonstrated the possibility of re-establishing the function of a traumatically paralyzed abducens muscle by means of muscular neurotisation. Aichmair and Abel discovered in a comparative study that there is no necessity to bandage patients after a squint operation; this is of especial importance in small children as there need no longer be any fear of the postoperative binocular bandage. Aichmair and Fries demonstrated a simple method for the precise measurement of the volume of implantates to eliminate enophthalmus after blow-out fractures; this helps the surgeon to avoid over- or undercorrection. They stressed, furthermore, the importance of the right shape of the implantate. de Decker published a new method of tucking of the superior oblique and of recession of the inferior oblique that facilitates the operation and at the same time enables more accurate dosation.", "contents": "[Advances in the field of surgical therapy of strabismus (author's transl)]. During the past 10 years the surgical treatment of strabismus has received different new impulses. Two fundamental novelties in this field have been reported and three not unimportant contributions towards the facilitation of, or improvement in therapy: C\u00fcppers described a method to improve and/or eliminate the dynamic squinting angle in cases of ocular nystagmus by the so-called \"Fadenoperation\" and Aichmair demonstrated the possibility of re-establishing the function of a traumatically paralyzed abducens muscle by means of muscular neurotisation. Aichmair and Abel discovered in a comparative study that there is no necessity to bandage patients after a squint operation; this is of especial importance in small children as there need no longer be any fear of the postoperative binocular bandage. Aichmair and Fries demonstrated a simple method for the precise measurement of the volume of implantates to eliminate enophthalmus after blow-out fractures; this helps the surgeon to avoid over- or undercorrection. They stressed, furthermore, the importance of the right shape of the implantate. de Decker published a new method of tucking of the superior oblique and of recession of the inferior oblique that facilitates the operation and at the same time enables more accurate dosation.", "PMID": 452612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10127", "title": "[Biomechanical gait analysis in infantile cerebral palsy (author's transl)].", "content": "The gait pattern is recorded by use of a high-speed camera, whilst x/y coordinates of the joints are registered by a Vanguard Motion Analyzer and stored on punched tape for processing, using specially-developed computer programmes. The results are mainly plotted as stick diagrams, chronograms, angle-time diagrams and angle-angle diagrams, allowing an immediate assessment of the gait pattern. Furthermore, the data are stored for statistical analysis in regard to evaluation of the efficacy of physiotherapeutic and orthopaedic measures.", "contents": "[Biomechanical gait analysis in infantile cerebral palsy (author's transl)]. The gait pattern is recorded by use of a high-speed camera, whilst x/y coordinates of the joints are registered by a Vanguard Motion Analyzer and stored on punched tape for processing, using specially-developed computer programmes. The results are mainly plotted as stick diagrams, chronograms, angle-time diagrams and angle-angle diagrams, allowing an immediate assessment of the gait pattern. Furthermore, the data are stored for statistical analysis in regard to evaluation of the efficacy of physiotherapeutic and orthopaedic measures.", "PMID": 452613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10128", "title": "[Mechanisms common to the development of malformation in congenital and sporadic forms of atrial septal defect (type II) (author's transl)].", "content": "Familial prevalence of some congenital cardiopathies leads to the conclusion that genetic factors might be involved. The case histories are presented of three families with atrial septal defect, Type II (ASD II) in which autosomal dominant inheritance was assumed on account of the pedigree analysis. Each family member was examined serologically, morphologically and morphometrically. One family was also tested for cytogenetic abnormalities. It is highly probable that the gene responsible for the defect is linked to the HLA system (Lod score = + 3.612) and is, therefore, located on the short arm of chromosome 6. The morphological examinations demonstrated uniformity of individual ear traits in related patients; moreover, the palmar dermatoglyphics showed a tendency to shortening of main line C, to ulnar and distal shifting of the carpal triradius and to an increase in hypothenar patterns. In addition a study was carried out of patients with apparently sporadic cardiopathy. A similar trend as to palmar configuration was observed. An attempt was made to connect known factors causing malformations with the results of this investigations.", "contents": "[Mechanisms common to the development of malformation in congenital and sporadic forms of atrial septal defect (type II) (author's transl)]. Familial prevalence of some congenital cardiopathies leads to the conclusion that genetic factors might be involved. The case histories are presented of three families with atrial septal defect, Type II (ASD II) in which autosomal dominant inheritance was assumed on account of the pedigree analysis. Each family member was examined serologically, morphologically and morphometrically. One family was also tested for cytogenetic abnormalities. It is highly probable that the gene responsible for the defect is linked to the HLA system (Lod score = + 3.612) and is, therefore, located on the short arm of chromosome 6. The morphological examinations demonstrated uniformity of individual ear traits in related patients; moreover, the palmar dermatoglyphics showed a tendency to shortening of main line C, to ulnar and distal shifting of the carpal triradius and to an increase in hypothenar patterns. In addition a study was carried out of patients with apparently sporadic cardiopathy. A similar trend as to palmar configuration was observed. An attempt was made to connect known factors causing malformations with the results of this investigations.", "PMID": 452615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10129", "title": "[Osteopoikilosis (author's transl)].", "content": "Report on radiological and clinical findings in a female patient with osteopoikilosis. A successful specific treatment of this hereditary and constitutional systemic disease of cancellous bones is not available.", "contents": "[Osteopoikilosis (author's transl)]. Report on radiological and clinical findings in a female patient with osteopoikilosis. A successful specific treatment of this hereditary and constitutional systemic disease of cancellous bones is not available.", "PMID": 452618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10130", "title": "[Comparison of the analgesic effect of nicomorphine in two different solutions (author's transl)].", "content": "The analgesic effect of nicomorphine in two different solutions was tested in 120 patients after cholecystectomy. The patients were divided into three groups: group I was given nicomorphine diluted with water, group II nicomorphine diluted with propylenglykol, group III propylenglykol alone. The degree of pain sensation was determined by interrogation. Pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure as well as capillary pO2 and pCO2 were measured 10 and 30 minutes after medication. No difference in pain relief could be established in the two groups receiving nicomorphine. Respiratory depression with a significant decrease of respiratory rate together with an increase of pCO2 was observed in the two nicomorphine groups. In the placebo group there was no significant change in the tested parameters. A small decrease of pO2 was observed in all patients after laparotomy.", "contents": "[Comparison of the analgesic effect of nicomorphine in two different solutions (author's transl)]. The analgesic effect of nicomorphine in two different solutions was tested in 120 patients after cholecystectomy. The patients were divided into three groups: group I was given nicomorphine diluted with water, group II nicomorphine diluted with propylenglykol, group III propylenglykol alone. The degree of pain sensation was determined by interrogation. Pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure as well as capillary pO2 and pCO2 were measured 10 and 30 minutes after medication. No difference in pain relief could be established in the two groups receiving nicomorphine. Respiratory depression with a significant decrease of respiratory rate together with an increase of pCO2 was observed in the two nicomorphine groups. In the placebo group there was no significant change in the tested parameters. A small decrease of pO2 was observed in all patients after laparotomy.", "PMID": 452619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10131", "title": "Chronic hepatitis associated with drug abuse: significance of hepatitis B virus.", "content": "One hundred and seventy-seven former heroin addicts, consisting of 85 who were newly admitted to a methadone maintenance program and 92 who had received methadone for a mean period of 30 months, were prospectively studied for up to 2 years in order to determine: (1) the effect of heroin withdrawal on the hepatic abnormalities, and (2) the incidence of HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HCc as indices of the frequency of hepatitis B virus infection. Our study indicates that (1) hepatic abnormalities persist when heroin is discontinued and are not temporally related to drug and/or needle usage, and (2) that 71% of subjects had either HBsAg or anti-HBs; anti-HBc was tested for in 16 patients and was present in 100%, although 9 of the 16 were both HBsAg- and anti-HBs-negative. This study suggests that hepatitis B is largely responsible for the liver dysfunction. It is proposed that an abnormality in immune function, induced by heroin, is responsible for the high incidence of chronic hepatitis. Attention is drawn to the similarity between former drug addicts and hemophiliacs, since both develop chronic hepatitis in spite of anti-HBs in the serum.", "contents": "Chronic hepatitis associated with drug abuse: significance of hepatitis B virus. One hundred and seventy-seven former heroin addicts, consisting of 85 who were newly admitted to a methadone maintenance program and 92 who had received methadone for a mean period of 30 months, were prospectively studied for up to 2 years in order to determine: (1) the effect of heroin withdrawal on the hepatic abnormalities, and (2) the incidence of HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HCc as indices of the frequency of hepatitis B virus infection. Our study indicates that (1) hepatic abnormalities persist when heroin is discontinued and are not temporally related to drug and/or needle usage, and (2) that 71% of subjects had either HBsAg or anti-HBs; anti-HBc was tested for in 16 patients and was present in 100%, although 9 of the 16 were both HBsAg- and anti-HBs-negative. This study suggests that hepatitis B is largely responsible for the liver dysfunction. It is proposed that an abnormality in immune function, induced by heroin, is responsible for the high incidence of chronic hepatitis. Attention is drawn to the similarity between former drug addicts and hemophiliacs, since both develop chronic hepatitis in spite of anti-HBs in the serum.", "PMID": 452620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10132", "title": "Pathogenesis and therapy of liver disease in protoporphyria.", "content": "Protoporphyria is an inherited disorder in man characterized by the overproduction of protoporphyrin, a compound that is excreted by the liver. Hepatobiliary disease may occur in protoporphyria, and several cases have been reported in which death was due to liver disease. Based on the histological evaluation of liver biopsy specimens from 18 patients, 6 of whom died with cirrhosis and liver failure, we speculate that liver disease in this condition is caused by protoporphyrin deposits in hepatobiliary structures. These deposits are composed of crystals and have a characteristic birefringence when examined by polarization microscopy.One patient with early liver damage was given cholestyramine and vitamin E in an attempt to reduce the amount of protoporphyrin which the liver excreted daily. Liver function tests returned to normal, and red cell and plasma protoporphyrin levels decreased. A repeat liver biopsy after one year of therapy showed healing, with decrease of the protoporphyrin deposits.Liver disease in protoporphyria may be treated by directing therapy toward the metabolic abnormality.", "contents": "Pathogenesis and therapy of liver disease in protoporphyria. Protoporphyria is an inherited disorder in man characterized by the overproduction of protoporphyrin, a compound that is excreted by the liver. Hepatobiliary disease may occur in protoporphyria, and several cases have been reported in which death was due to liver disease. Based on the histological evaluation of liver biopsy specimens from 18 patients, 6 of whom died with cirrhosis and liver failure, we speculate that liver disease in this condition is caused by protoporphyrin deposits in hepatobiliary structures. These deposits are composed of crystals and have a characteristic birefringence when examined by polarization microscopy.One patient with early liver damage was given cholestyramine and vitamin E in an attempt to reduce the amount of protoporphyrin which the liver excreted daily. Liver function tests returned to normal, and red cell and plasma protoporphyrin levels decreased. A repeat liver biopsy after one year of therapy showed healing, with decrease of the protoporphyrin deposits.Liver disease in protoporphyria may be treated by directing therapy toward the metabolic abnormality.", "PMID": 452621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10133", "title": "The role of hepatotrophic factors in liver regeneration--a brief review including a preliminary report of the in vitro effects of hepatic regenerative stimulator substance (SS).", "content": "Details are presented of a technique for maintaining adult liver parenchymal cells in culture in a nonproliferating state. Hepatic regenerative stimulator substance (SS), prepared from weanling rat liver, will stimulate tritiated thymidine incorporation into liver DNA when injected into another rat or mouse. Preliminary experiments are presented which show that SS stimulates non-proliferating adult hepatocytes to incorporate increased amounts of (3)HT dr into DNA when SS is added to the culture medium. The response is dose dependent and a lag period of about 12 hours exists between addition of SS to the cultures and the stimulation of DNA synthesis. Preliminary screening of several cell lines in culture reveals that only liver related cell lines (hepatomas) respond to SS. A brief review of other hepatotrophic factors is also included.", "contents": "The role of hepatotrophic factors in liver regeneration--a brief review including a preliminary report of the in vitro effects of hepatic regenerative stimulator substance (SS). Details are presented of a technique for maintaining adult liver parenchymal cells in culture in a nonproliferating state. Hepatic regenerative stimulator substance (SS), prepared from weanling rat liver, will stimulate tritiated thymidine incorporation into liver DNA when injected into another rat or mouse. Preliminary experiments are presented which show that SS stimulates non-proliferating adult hepatocytes to incorporate increased amounts of (3)HT dr into DNA when SS is added to the culture medium. The response is dose dependent and a lag period of about 12 hours exists between addition of SS to the cultures and the stimulation of DNA synthesis. Preliminary screening of several cell lines in culture reveals that only liver related cell lines (hepatomas) respond to SS. A brief review of other hepatotrophic factors is also included.", "PMID": 452622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10134", "title": "The paracellular pathway and bile formation.", "content": "Choleretic infusions of taurocholate (40 \u03bc moles for one hour) result in a significant increase in the number of lateral cell surface invaginations observed by scanning electron microscopy adjacent to the junctional complex of bile canaliculi in rat liver. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that these invaginations resemble \"blisters\" induced by osmotic gradients across epithelial tissues, a morphologic change which correlates with increases in ionic and hydraulic conductivity of the paracellular \"shunt\" pathway in such tissue. Since taurocholate infusions result in localization of ionic lanthanum chloride within hepatocyte junctional complexes, bile acids may also stimulate the movement of fluid and electrolytes across paracellular pathways during the process of bile formation.", "contents": "The paracellular pathway and bile formation. Choleretic infusions of taurocholate (40 \u03bc moles for one hour) result in a significant increase in the number of lateral cell surface invaginations observed by scanning electron microscopy adjacent to the junctional complex of bile canaliculi in rat liver. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that these invaginations resemble \"blisters\" induced by osmotic gradients across epithelial tissues, a morphologic change which correlates with increases in ionic and hydraulic conductivity of the paracellular \"shunt\" pathway in such tissue. Since taurocholate infusions result in localization of ionic lanthanum chloride within hepatocyte junctional complexes, bile acids may also stimulate the movement of fluid and electrolytes across paracellular pathways during the process of bile formation.", "PMID": 452623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10135", "title": "Induction of rat liver alkaline phosphatase by bile duct ligation.", "content": "Bile duct ligation causes a five- to sevenfold increase in the activity of rat liver alkaline phosphatase within 12 hours after ligation and a similar rise in the activity of alkaline phosphatase in serum. The increased serum activity is due entirely to the appearance of a new isoenzyme that has the properties of rat liver alkaline phosphatase. The increase in both serum and liver alkaline phosphatase is prevented by the prior administration of cycloheximide in a dose that inhibits protein synthesis by 70%. Rat liver alkaline phosphatase was then purified to homogeneity. Antibody was raised to purified rat liver alkaline phosphatase in rabbits. The antibody was coupled to sepharose 4B and affinity columns made. (3)-H-leucine was then injected into the portal veins of sham operated rats and rats with bile duct ligation four hours after ligation. One hour after injection and five hours after ligation, animals were sacrificed. Liver alkaline phosphatase was purified by means of affinity chromatography and double immunoprecipitation with rabbit antibody to rat liver alkaline phosphatase and goat anti-rabbit gamma globulin. Bile duct ligation increased the incorporation of (3)-H-leucine into liver alkaline phosphatase more than threefold compared with sham operated rats, 164 CPM/mg protein vs. 49 CPM/mg protein (p < .001). The data indicate that the increased activity of rat liver alkaline phosphatase after bile duct ligation is due to enzyme induction rather than to activation of a pre-existing, relatively inactive enzyme.", "contents": "Induction of rat liver alkaline phosphatase by bile duct ligation. Bile duct ligation causes a five- to sevenfold increase in the activity of rat liver alkaline phosphatase within 12 hours after ligation and a similar rise in the activity of alkaline phosphatase in serum. The increased serum activity is due entirely to the appearance of a new isoenzyme that has the properties of rat liver alkaline phosphatase. The increase in both serum and liver alkaline phosphatase is prevented by the prior administration of cycloheximide in a dose that inhibits protein synthesis by 70%. Rat liver alkaline phosphatase was then purified to homogeneity. Antibody was raised to purified rat liver alkaline phosphatase in rabbits. The antibody was coupled to sepharose 4B and affinity columns made. (3)-H-leucine was then injected into the portal veins of sham operated rats and rats with bile duct ligation four hours after ligation. One hour after injection and five hours after ligation, animals were sacrificed. Liver alkaline phosphatase was purified by means of affinity chromatography and double immunoprecipitation with rabbit antibody to rat liver alkaline phosphatase and goat anti-rabbit gamma globulin. Bile duct ligation increased the incorporation of (3)-H-leucine into liver alkaline phosphatase more than threefold compared with sham operated rats, 164 CPM/mg protein vs. 49 CPM/mg protein (p < .001). The data indicate that the increased activity of rat liver alkaline phosphatase after bile duct ligation is due to enzyme induction rather than to activation of a pre-existing, relatively inactive enzyme.", "PMID": 452624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10136", "title": "Itch in liver disease: facts and speculations.", "content": "Pruritus in hepatobiliary disease is commonly believed to be caused by retention of bile acids with their sequestration in the skin. HOwever, we have recently demonstrated that skin levels of bile acids in patients with cholestasis correlate poorly with pruritus. In this report, we present additional data concerning the relationship of pruritus to bile acid retention: (1) the urinary excretion of sulfated and nonsulfated bile acids was not significantly different in patients with cholestasis who itched compared to those who did not; (2) one patient with itch associated with a liver abscess had normal levels of bile acids in serum, skin, and urine; (3) patients with primary biliary cirrhosis who itched had lower serum bile acid levels than patients with mechanical biliary obstruction who did not itch.These studies support our premise that pruritus in hepatobiliary diseases is not directly related to bile acid retention. They suggest that the type of cholestatic disorder, and not simply the magnitude of the cholestasis, as estimated by the elevation of serum bile acids, is important. We propose that the agent responsible for pruritus is produced in response to cholestasis, possibly through activation of the alternate pathway of bile acid synthesis. Properties of the hypothetical pruritogen are discussed.", "contents": "Itch in liver disease: facts and speculations. Pruritus in hepatobiliary disease is commonly believed to be caused by retention of bile acids with their sequestration in the skin. HOwever, we have recently demonstrated that skin levels of bile acids in patients with cholestasis correlate poorly with pruritus. In this report, we present additional data concerning the relationship of pruritus to bile acid retention: (1) the urinary excretion of sulfated and nonsulfated bile acids was not significantly different in patients with cholestasis who itched compared to those who did not; (2) one patient with itch associated with a liver abscess had normal levels of bile acids in serum, skin, and urine; (3) patients with primary biliary cirrhosis who itched had lower serum bile acid levels than patients with mechanical biliary obstruction who did not itch.These studies support our premise that pruritus in hepatobiliary diseases is not directly related to bile acid retention. They suggest that the type of cholestatic disorder, and not simply the magnitude of the cholestasis, as estimated by the elevation of serum bile acids, is important. We propose that the agent responsible for pruritus is produced in response to cholestasis, possibly through activation of the alternate pathway of bile acid synthesis. Properties of the hypothetical pruritogen are discussed.", "PMID": 452625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10137", "title": "Hepatic copper accumulation in primary biliary cirrhosis.", "content": "Hepatic copper accumulation is a regular feature of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). The levels are directly related to the clinical stage of the disease. Since the copper values in PBC are comparable to Wilson's disease, there is the potential for copper toxicity, although this is speculative since the two diseases differ in the binding, distribution, and intracellular localization of the copper. The involvement of copper toxicity in the progression of PBC is supported by the observation that the highest values occur in association with the hepatic failure that occurs in the advanced stage.Corticosteroid therapy appears to decrease hepatic copper levels in PBC. Although this therapy does not invariably lower the hepatic Cu content in patients with PBC, it does so in many individuals. Therapeutic trials with d-penicillamine are in progress. When results are available they will guide us in the management of individual patients with PBC. In the meantime, dietary copper should be restricted as is done in management of Wilson's disease.", "contents": "Hepatic copper accumulation in primary biliary cirrhosis. Hepatic copper accumulation is a regular feature of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). The levels are directly related to the clinical stage of the disease. Since the copper values in PBC are comparable to Wilson's disease, there is the potential for copper toxicity, although this is speculative since the two diseases differ in the binding, distribution, and intracellular localization of the copper. The involvement of copper toxicity in the progression of PBC is supported by the observation that the highest values occur in association with the hepatic failure that occurs in the advanced stage.Corticosteroid therapy appears to decrease hepatic copper levels in PBC. Although this therapy does not invariably lower the hepatic Cu content in patients with PBC, it does so in many individuals. Therapeutic trials with d-penicillamine are in progress. When results are available they will guide us in the management of individual patients with PBC. In the meantime, dietary copper should be restricted as is done in management of Wilson's disease.", "PMID": 452626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10138", "title": "Familial intrahepatic cholestasis: an update.", "content": "Familial intrahepatic cholestasis is a confusing group of syndromes. Four forms are defined and discussed in detail (\"arteriohepatic dysplasia,\" the Byler syndrome, the THCA syndrome, and Norwegian cholestasis). A comparison of the distinguishing characteristics of these syndromes demonstrates that they share many features, including areflexia, retinal degeneration, and paucity of the intrahepatic bile ducts on biopsy. Alternatively, some traits appear to be specific for a single syndrome: posterior embryotoxon and bony anomalies for arteriohepatic dysplasia, the presence of an abnormal bile acid for the THCA syndrome, and giant cell transformation for Norwegian cholestasis. These syndromes, although rare, merit complete evaluation because, as nature's experiments in bile formation, they represent models of cholestasis and may provide clues to the understanding both of other forms of cholestasis of unknown etiology and of the normal mechanisms of bile formation.", "contents": "Familial intrahepatic cholestasis: an update. Familial intrahepatic cholestasis is a confusing group of syndromes. Four forms are defined and discussed in detail (\"arteriohepatic dysplasia,\" the Byler syndrome, the THCA syndrome, and Norwegian cholestasis). A comparison of the distinguishing characteristics of these syndromes demonstrates that they share many features, including areflexia, retinal degeneration, and paucity of the intrahepatic bile ducts on biopsy. Alternatively, some traits appear to be specific for a single syndrome: posterior embryotoxon and bony anomalies for arteriohepatic dysplasia, the presence of an abnormal bile acid for the THCA syndrome, and giant cell transformation for Norwegian cholestasis. These syndromes, although rare, merit complete evaluation because, as nature's experiments in bile formation, they represent models of cholestasis and may provide clues to the understanding both of other forms of cholestasis of unknown etiology and of the normal mechanisms of bile formation.", "PMID": 452627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10139", "title": "The three syndromes of fat embolism: pulmonary manifestations.", "content": "The clinical course and radiographs of 30 patients with fat embolism syndrome were reviewed. In all cases the classic triad of neurologic dysfunction, respiratory insufficiency, and petechiae were present. Three responses to embolized fat were noted. The hyperacute response was seen in two patients with paradoxical embolization of fat to the systemic circulation. A \"classic response\" was noted in 18 patients with transient respiratory compromise and variable radiographic findings. The two deaths in the group responding in the classical manner were attributed to massive pulmonary emboli. The third response, noted in ten patients, consisted of a chest radiograph compatible with pulmonary edema in the clinical setting of the adult respiratory distress syndrome. In this group the degree of respiratory dysfunction and pulmonary damage correlated with the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Pathologic correlations are presented and the mechanisms by which embolic fat produces tissue damage are discussed.", "contents": "The three syndromes of fat embolism: pulmonary manifestations. The clinical course and radiographs of 30 patients with fat embolism syndrome were reviewed. In all cases the classic triad of neurologic dysfunction, respiratory insufficiency, and petechiae were present. Three responses to embolized fat were noted. The hyperacute response was seen in two patients with paradoxical embolization of fat to the systemic circulation. A \"classic response\" was noted in 18 patients with transient respiratory compromise and variable radiographic findings. The two deaths in the group responding in the classical manner were attributed to massive pulmonary emboli. The third response, noted in ten patients, consisted of a chest radiograph compatible with pulmonary edema in the clinical setting of the adult respiratory distress syndrome. In this group the degree of respiratory dysfunction and pulmonary damage correlated with the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Pathologic correlations are presented and the mechanisms by which embolic fat produces tissue damage are discussed.", "PMID": 452628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10140", "title": "Feminization of chronic alcoholic men: a formulation.", "content": "A review of the factors historically thought to contribute to the feminization of men with Laennec's cirrhosis is presented. Objective scientific data is presented both in support of and in rejection of such factors when available. Recent hypotheses about the significance of an altered estrogen to androgen (E/T) ratio as being important in the pathogenesis of feminization also are discussed. Finally, a hypothesis which incorporates the findings of hypogonadism and cirrhosis with portal-systemic shunting is presented as a pathogenic mechanism for the feminization of men with alcohol-induced Laennec's cirrhosis.", "contents": "Feminization of chronic alcoholic men: a formulation. A review of the factors historically thought to contribute to the feminization of men with Laennec's cirrhosis is presented. Objective scientific data is presented both in support of and in rejection of such factors when available. Recent hypotheses about the significance of an altered estrogen to androgen (E/T) ratio as being important in the pathogenesis of feminization also are discussed. Finally, a hypothesis which incorporates the findings of hypogonadism and cirrhosis with portal-systemic shunting is presented as a pathogenic mechanism for the feminization of men with alcohol-induced Laennec's cirrhosis.", "PMID": 452631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10141", "title": "[Studies on sleep quality in old age].", "content": "A survey of 480 randomly chosen men and women over 65 years of age observed complaints concerning the quality of sleep in 26%, the use of sleeping drugs in 33%; complaints and/or drugs were found in 45% of cases. On the average complaints were more often made by women. The percentage of men complaining increased from 65 to 90+ years. In the group over 90 years of age both sexes showed the same frequency. The quality of sleep was correlated with self-rated health-status, mobility and impairment especially of the cardiovascular system. No correlations were found with contentment, place of residence, noise, outdoor exercise and socioeconome status. Sleeping drugs were most effective in subjects with cerebral impairment and of least effect when subjects suffered from cardiovascular trouble.", "contents": "[Studies on sleep quality in old age]. A survey of 480 randomly chosen men and women over 65 years of age observed complaints concerning the quality of sleep in 26%, the use of sleeping drugs in 33%; complaints and/or drugs were found in 45% of cases. On the average complaints were more often made by women. The percentage of men complaining increased from 65 to 90+ years. In the group over 90 years of age both sexes showed the same frequency. The quality of sleep was correlated with self-rated health-status, mobility and impairment especially of the cardiovascular system. No correlations were found with contentment, place of residence, noise, outdoor exercise and socioeconome status. Sleeping drugs were most effective in subjects with cerebral impairment and of least effect when subjects suffered from cardiovascular trouble.", "PMID": 452633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10142", "title": "[Differential diagnosis of sleep disorders in old age].", "content": "Somnipathy represents neither an independent disease nor a nosological entity. The simple formulated complaint: \"I can't sleep\" requires a very detailed investigation of the surrounding conditions, habits and the physiological situation of the patient. Further one has to consider, resp. to rule out a great number of causes of diseases, i.e. those of the internal organs, the central nerve system and the psyche. The majority of cases of somnipathy in elderly patients reveals a treatable cause, of the prescription of hypnotics becomes unnecessary.", "contents": "[Differential diagnosis of sleep disorders in old age]. Somnipathy represents neither an independent disease nor a nosological entity. The simple formulated complaint: \"I can't sleep\" requires a very detailed investigation of the surrounding conditions, habits and the physiological situation of the patient. Further one has to consider, resp. to rule out a great number of causes of diseases, i.e. those of the internal organs, the central nerve system and the psyche. The majority of cases of somnipathy in elderly patients reveals a treatable cause, of the prescription of hypnotics becomes unnecessary.", "PMID": 452634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10143", "title": "[Fine-structure changes in Toxoplasma gondii trophozoites after deep-freezing with dimethyl sulphoxide (author's transl)].", "content": "The changes observed in trophozoites of Toxoplasma gondii after deep-freeze preservation were examined by electron microscopy. Toxoplasmas (strain BK) from peritoneal exudate of infected NMRI mice were supended in Ringer's solution, deep-frozen in liquid nitrogen with 5% dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO), and compared after thawing with control samples with and without the addition of DMSO. Slight structural changes such as widening of endoplasmic reticulum, formation of fissures in the cytoplasm, and loosening of chromatin were only observed in some of the free toxoplasmas of the DMSO control. Among the deep-frozen parasites, about 1/5 of the free stages showed no or only slight morphological changes. In contrast to this, almost all intracellular forms found in macrophages showed lesions. The most remarkable change was a partial destruction of the inner cell membrane complex. The outflow of ribosome-containing protoplasm with ballon-like swelling of the outer elementary membrane was observed as a consequence of this frequent lesion. The outflow of protoplasm induced a drastic decrease in the electronic density of the whole cytoplasm. Other characteristic degenerative signs were vacuolation of cytoplasm up to formation of great optically empty spaces, widening of the perinuclear space, swelling of mitochondria, disintegration of rhoptria, micronemata, and Golgi zone, coarse-plaque loosening, and displacement of electron-dense areas of the nucleus up to disintegration with maintenance of the karyoplasm. In some almost completely disintegrated trophozoites, enlarged mitochondria with remarkable electronic density were observed. Apart from the cell membrane, the conoid was the longest-persisting organelle. The alterations observed after deep-freezing permit the conclusion that the free cells, which were only slightly impaired or not at all, remained infective.", "contents": "[Fine-structure changes in Toxoplasma gondii trophozoites after deep-freezing with dimethyl sulphoxide (author's transl)]. The changes observed in trophozoites of Toxoplasma gondii after deep-freeze preservation were examined by electron microscopy. Toxoplasmas (strain BK) from peritoneal exudate of infected NMRI mice were supended in Ringer's solution, deep-frozen in liquid nitrogen with 5% dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO), and compared after thawing with control samples with and without the addition of DMSO. Slight structural changes such as widening of endoplasmic reticulum, formation of fissures in the cytoplasm, and loosening of chromatin were only observed in some of the free toxoplasmas of the DMSO control. Among the deep-frozen parasites, about 1/5 of the free stages showed no or only slight morphological changes. In contrast to this, almost all intracellular forms found in macrophages showed lesions. The most remarkable change was a partial destruction of the inner cell membrane complex. The outflow of ribosome-containing protoplasm with ballon-like swelling of the outer elementary membrane was observed as a consequence of this frequent lesion. The outflow of protoplasm induced a drastic decrease in the electronic density of the whole cytoplasm. Other characteristic degenerative signs were vacuolation of cytoplasm up to formation of great optically empty spaces, widening of the perinuclear space, swelling of mitochondria, disintegration of rhoptria, micronemata, and Golgi zone, coarse-plaque loosening, and displacement of electron-dense areas of the nucleus up to disintegration with maintenance of the karyoplasm. In some almost completely disintegrated trophozoites, enlarged mitochondria with remarkable electronic density were observed. Apart from the cell membrane, the conoid was the longest-persisting organelle. The alterations observed after deep-freezing permit the conclusion that the free cells, which were only slightly impaired or not at all, remained infective.", "PMID": 452644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10144", "title": "[Sleep disorders in a isolation situation. Hyposomnia in older convicts].", "content": "Modern world is hostile to sleep and by its achievements it disturbs our hereditary biological rhythm. About 80% of all the cases of hyposomny are caused by emotional disturbances in the broadest sense. Somnipathy in a prison shows of course considerable characteristics, although here, too, we can find the same problems a normal doctor working outside a prison has to cope with. 54% of all the inmates of the prison in Straubing (= JVA Straubling) complain about somnipathy; from the prisoners more than 50 years old only 43%. Physical diseases cause somnipathy within 19% of the older prisoners where we find predominantly heart-diseases and circulatory diseases. 5% of somnipathy are due to an abuse of coffee or nicotine and the rest is due to emotional disturbances in the broadest sense. The normal medical treatment for simple somnipathy is of no success in a prison and the prisoners abuse the normally used medicaments to get into a state of ectasy. Therefore medicaments on a vegetable basis are used, also neuroleptica and medicaments against depression, where there is practically no danger for addiction.", "contents": "[Sleep disorders in a isolation situation. Hyposomnia in older convicts]. Modern world is hostile to sleep and by its achievements it disturbs our hereditary biological rhythm. About 80% of all the cases of hyposomny are caused by emotional disturbances in the broadest sense. Somnipathy in a prison shows of course considerable characteristics, although here, too, we can find the same problems a normal doctor working outside a prison has to cope with. 54% of all the inmates of the prison in Straubing (= JVA Straubling) complain about somnipathy; from the prisoners more than 50 years old only 43%. Physical diseases cause somnipathy within 19% of the older prisoners where we find predominantly heart-diseases and circulatory diseases. 5% of somnipathy are due to an abuse of coffee or nicotine and the rest is due to emotional disturbances in the broadest sense. The normal medical treatment for simple somnipathy is of no success in a prison and the prisoners abuse the normally used medicaments to get into a state of ectasy. Therefore medicaments on a vegetable basis are used, also neuroleptica and medicaments against depression, where there is practically no danger for addiction.", "PMID": 452636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10145", "title": "[Management of sleep disorders from the geriatric psychiatry aspect].", "content": "Sleep disorders are a common phenomenon in patients of all age groups and often are not easy to influence. In geriatric patients sleep disorders are even more common and often are the main complaint. In addition to pharmacotherapeutic approach with a number of different psychotropic drugs non-drug procedures should also be used in the treatment of geriatric and psychogeriatric patients and combinations of different therapeutic approaches can be indicated. With every patient complaining of disturbed sleep a careful exploration of the origin of the sleep disorder is imperative prior to treatment.", "contents": "[Management of sleep disorders from the geriatric psychiatry aspect]. Sleep disorders are a common phenomenon in patients of all age groups and often are not easy to influence. In geriatric patients sleep disorders are even more common and often are the main complaint. In addition to pharmacotherapeutic approach with a number of different psychotropic drugs non-drug procedures should also be used in the treatment of geriatric and psychogeriatric patients and combinations of different therapeutic approaches can be indicated. With every patient complaining of disturbed sleep a careful exploration of the origin of the sleep disorder is imperative prior to treatment.", "PMID": 452635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10146", "title": "Changes in worm burden, haematological and serological response in rats after single and multiple Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections.", "content": "Thirteen groups of rats were first sensitized with single or double doses of 5--30 third-stage larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, followed by a challenge infection with 100 larvae at various periods after the primary infection. Seven other groups of rats receiving only the sensitizing infection served as the controls. In all the sensitized rats, a significantly (p less than 0.05) smaller mean number of adult worms was found established in the challenge infection as compared to the control. The frequency of the sensitizing dose and timing of the challenge infection appeared to influence the intensity of the host's response. There was no conclusive evidence to indicate that the immune response could retard the growth, development, or sex ratios of the worms established in subsequent infections. A positive haemagglutinating antibody response was first observed in some rats as early as four weeks post-infection with 100 larvae when the worms began migrating from the brain to the lungs. The antibody response and eosinophilia were most pronounced during the oviposition of the female worms and hatching of first-stage-larvae. Changes in white blood cell, lymphocyte, and neutrophil counts were also followed in some groups.", "contents": "Changes in worm burden, haematological and serological response in rats after single and multiple Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections. Thirteen groups of rats were first sensitized with single or double doses of 5--30 third-stage larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, followed by a challenge infection with 100 larvae at various periods after the primary infection. Seven other groups of rats receiving only the sensitizing infection served as the controls. In all the sensitized rats, a significantly (p less than 0.05) smaller mean number of adult worms was found established in the challenge infection as compared to the control. The frequency of the sensitizing dose and timing of the challenge infection appeared to influence the intensity of the host's response. There was no conclusive evidence to indicate that the immune response could retard the growth, development, or sex ratios of the worms established in subsequent infections. A positive haemagglutinating antibody response was first observed in some rats as early as four weeks post-infection with 100 larvae when the worms began migrating from the brain to the lungs. The antibody response and eosinophilia were most pronounced during the oviposition of the female worms and hatching of first-stage-larvae. Changes in white blood cell, lymphocyte, and neutrophil counts were also followed in some groups.", "PMID": 452645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10147", "title": "Discussion of the relationships between Schistosoma and their intermediate hosts, assessment of the degree of host-parasite compatibility and evaluation of schistosome taxonomy.", "content": "Studies of the spectrum of the intermediate hosts of schistosomes and the relationships between parasites and intermediate host snails have been carried out with each researcher using different methods. A comparison between compatibility studies has therefore been impossible. The following three basic problems in these kind of studies are discussed in this paper: (1) the standardization of experimental materials such as schistosomes, intermediate and final hosts, (2) the methods involved in the experiments, and (3) the sort of data which must be collected. Standardized methods and materials are described in this paper. The relationships between the genus Schistosoma and the intermediate host snails belonging to the two genera Biomphalaria and Bulinus, and the mechanisms behind the process resulting in various degrees of compatibility between the two involved organisms are reviewed and discussed. Why certain combinations of schistosomes and snails result in the production of cercariae and others do not is still unknown, but there is now some indication of a camouflage behaviour during the intramolluscan stages, e.g., the larvae in the snails cover themselves with snail material and are not recognized as foreign objects. The same mechanism has already been found in the schistosomules in the final host. Much of the confusion in the discussion of the relationships between schistosomes and intermediate hosts is the result of a lack of an objective way to describe and assess the compatibility between the two. Based on a series of experiments with S. haematobium, S. intercalatum, S. bovis, S. mansoni, and several species of possible intermediate hosts, the following index for estimating the degree of compatibility is proposed: the total cercarial production from 100 exposed snails (TCP/100 exposed snails). Seven classes have been suggested: the first one (Class 0) with a TCP/100 exposed snails of zero, is called 'refractory'; the next one (Class I) called 'not very compatible' has a TCP /100 exposed snails between 1 and 10,000; the last group (Class IV) called 'extremely compatible' produced more than 500,001 per 100 exposed snails during the entire lifespan. The ability to use a spectrum of intermediate hosts and the compatibility in the taxonomy of schistosomes is discussed. The results for the different species of schistosomes indicated that each species consists of strains with 'hybrid populations' in between.", "contents": "Discussion of the relationships between Schistosoma and their intermediate hosts, assessment of the degree of host-parasite compatibility and evaluation of schistosome taxonomy. Studies of the spectrum of the intermediate hosts of schistosomes and the relationships between parasites and intermediate host snails have been carried out with each researcher using different methods. A comparison between compatibility studies has therefore been impossible. The following three basic problems in these kind of studies are discussed in this paper: (1) the standardization of experimental materials such as schistosomes, intermediate and final hosts, (2) the methods involved in the experiments, and (3) the sort of data which must be collected. Standardized methods and materials are described in this paper. The relationships between the genus Schistosoma and the intermediate host snails belonging to the two genera Biomphalaria and Bulinus, and the mechanisms behind the process resulting in various degrees of compatibility between the two involved organisms are reviewed and discussed. Why certain combinations of schistosomes and snails result in the production of cercariae and others do not is still unknown, but there is now some indication of a camouflage behaviour during the intramolluscan stages, e.g., the larvae in the snails cover themselves with snail material and are not recognized as foreign objects. The same mechanism has already been found in the schistosomules in the final host. Much of the confusion in the discussion of the relationships between schistosomes and intermediate hosts is the result of a lack of an objective way to describe and assess the compatibility between the two. Based on a series of experiments with S. haematobium, S. intercalatum, S. bovis, S. mansoni, and several species of possible intermediate hosts, the following index for estimating the degree of compatibility is proposed: the total cercarial production from 100 exposed snails (TCP/100 exposed snails). Seven classes have been suggested: the first one (Class 0) with a TCP/100 exposed snails of zero, is called 'refractory'; the next one (Class I) called 'not very compatible' has a TCP /100 exposed snails between 1 and 10,000; the last group (Class IV) called 'extremely compatible' produced more than 500,001 per 100 exposed snails during the entire lifespan. The ability to use a spectrum of intermediate hosts and the compatibility in the taxonomy of schistosomes is discussed. The results for the different species of schistosomes indicated that each species consists of strains with 'hybrid populations' in between.", "PMID": 452646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10148", "title": "[Reflection of the phases of conditioned reflex placing of the paw on a support in the activity of motor cortex neurons in cats].", "content": "In four cats trained to respond with the placing of a fore-leg on a support to both tactile stimulation of the leg and to electrostimulation of the primary motor and sensory cortical areas, of the ventral posterolateral nucleus of the thalamus and of cerebral peduncles, the activity of 77 cortical neurones in the area of motor representation of anterior contralateral extremity was studied before the conditioned movements and during them. The pattern of activity in approximately 83.9% of the studied neurones 200 s before the instrumental placing movement was constant for this movement and did not depend on the type of its trigger (p = 0.01). The activity of such neurones probably reflects the formation of the program of the forthcoming movement at the motor cortex level.", "contents": "[Reflection of the phases of conditioned reflex placing of the paw on a support in the activity of motor cortex neurons in cats]. In four cats trained to respond with the placing of a fore-leg on a support to both tactile stimulation of the leg and to electrostimulation of the primary motor and sensory cortical areas, of the ventral posterolateral nucleus of the thalamus and of cerebral peduncles, the activity of 77 cortical neurones in the area of motor representation of anterior contralateral extremity was studied before the conditioned movements and during them. The pattern of activity in approximately 83.9% of the studied neurones 200 s before the instrumental placing movement was constant for this movement and did not depend on the type of its trigger (p = 0.01). The activity of such neurones probably reflects the formation of the program of the forthcoming movement at the motor cortex level.", "PMID": 452715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10149", "title": "[Autonomic reactions during mental activity in 4--7-year-old children].", "content": "The paper deals with formation of the complex of effector vegetative components of mental activity (on the model of sum doing) in the children under school age (4-5 and 6-7 years old) with different correlation of direct and verbal stimuli. It is found that the perception and processing of direct signals (kinesthetic, visual) creates optimal conditions for voluntary activity and its vegetative provision. Processing of the information with second signal significance worsens the performance of mental operations and of their vegetative provision particularly in 4-5 years old children (as compared to 6-7 years old ones).", "contents": "[Autonomic reactions during mental activity in 4--7-year-old children]. The paper deals with formation of the complex of effector vegetative components of mental activity (on the model of sum doing) in the children under school age (4-5 and 6-7 years old) with different correlation of direct and verbal stimuli. It is found that the perception and processing of direct signals (kinesthetic, visual) creates optimal conditions for voluntary activity and its vegetative provision. Processing of the information with second signal significance worsens the performance of mental operations and of their vegetative provision particularly in 4-5 years old children (as compared to 6-7 years old ones).", "PMID": 452712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10150", "title": "[Interhemispheric EEG-asymmetry in 5--7-year-old children].", "content": "Interhemispheric asymmetry (IHA) of the theta-rhythm in the frontal, central, parietal, occipital and temporal cortical areas was studied in 5-7 years old children. The children performed visual-spatial (drawing mosaic) and verbal (reciting, associative experiment) tasks. IHA was also estimated in the state of rest, when a child doesn't move with his eyes open. It is found that in the state of rest the theta-activity is predominant in the right hemisphere in all cortical areas. During performance of visual spatial tasks this correlation does not change significantly. During verbal activity IHA values shift towards the left hemisphere. These changes are mostly pronounced in the frontal and temporal cortical areas where the left-side asymmetry of the theta-activity is revealed. In the central areas no significant IHA is recorded; in the parietal and occipital areas the theta-rhythm is predominant in the right hemisphere. The data obtained suggest a functional specialization of the hemispheres in 5-7 years old children. The left hemisphere is more active during verbal activity whereas the right one plays the leading role both during visual-spatial activity and in the organization of the rest state.", "contents": "[Interhemispheric EEG-asymmetry in 5--7-year-old children]. Interhemispheric asymmetry (IHA) of the theta-rhythm in the frontal, central, parietal, occipital and temporal cortical areas was studied in 5-7 years old children. The children performed visual-spatial (drawing mosaic) and verbal (reciting, associative experiment) tasks. IHA was also estimated in the state of rest, when a child doesn't move with his eyes open. It is found that in the state of rest the theta-activity is predominant in the right hemisphere in all cortical areas. During performance of visual spatial tasks this correlation does not change significantly. During verbal activity IHA values shift towards the left hemisphere. These changes are mostly pronounced in the frontal and temporal cortical areas where the left-side asymmetry of the theta-activity is revealed. In the central areas no significant IHA is recorded; in the parietal and occipital areas the theta-rhythm is predominant in the right hemisphere. The data obtained suggest a functional specialization of the hemispheres in 5-7 years old children. The left hemisphere is more active during verbal activity whereas the right one plays the leading role both during visual-spatial activity and in the organization of the rest state.", "PMID": 452711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10151", "title": "[Effect of long-term electric stimulation of the head of the caudate nucleus on alimentary secretory reflexes in dogs].", "content": "In chronic experiments on dogs with implanted electrodes prolonged (30 min) subthreshold (20-30 mca) low-frequency (1 imp/sec) stimulation of the dorsal part of the caudate nucleus head inhibited the achievement of conditioned secretory alimentary reflexes. High frequency (100 imp/sec) stimulation under the same experimental conditions facilitated conditioned and unconditioned alimentary secretory reflexes. Under the influence of stimulation--high-frequency stimulation in particular--of the dorsal part of the caudate nucleus head differentiation inhibition tends to disinhibition.", "contents": "[Effect of long-term electric stimulation of the head of the caudate nucleus on alimentary secretory reflexes in dogs]. In chronic experiments on dogs with implanted electrodes prolonged (30 min) subthreshold (20-30 mca) low-frequency (1 imp/sec) stimulation of the dorsal part of the caudate nucleus head inhibited the achievement of conditioned secretory alimentary reflexes. High frequency (100 imp/sec) stimulation under the same experimental conditions facilitated conditioned and unconditioned alimentary secretory reflexes. Under the influence of stimulation--high-frequency stimulation in particular--of the dorsal part of the caudate nucleus head differentiation inhibition tends to disinhibition.", "PMID": 452713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10152", "title": "[Changes in the excitability of command neurons during the initial period of conditioned reflex formation in grape snails].", "content": "The procedure of elaboration of conditioned defensive pneumostomum closure was reproduced in neurophysiological experiments on half-intact preparation of the snail. Activity of identified command neurones involved in the reinforcing unconditioned reflex, was recorded intracellularly. Conditioned and unconditioned stimuli converged on these neurones. Excitability of the explored command neurones increased during the first stages of conditioning. Appearance and consequent intensification of the initially absent spike response to the conditioned stimulus was essentially due to this excitability change. Command neurones action potentials evoked by the conditioned stimulus elicited some effector reactions which were the first signs of conditioning. The conclusion is made that the excitability changes in certain nerve cells are essential for determining the initial phase of conditioning.", "contents": "[Changes in the excitability of command neurons during the initial period of conditioned reflex formation in grape snails]. The procedure of elaboration of conditioned defensive pneumostomum closure was reproduced in neurophysiological experiments on half-intact preparation of the snail. Activity of identified command neurones involved in the reinforcing unconditioned reflex, was recorded intracellularly. Conditioned and unconditioned stimuli converged on these neurones. Excitability of the explored command neurones increased during the first stages of conditioning. Appearance and consequent intensification of the initially absent spike response to the conditioned stimulus was essentially due to this excitability change. Command neurones action potentials evoked by the conditioned stimulus elicited some effector reactions which were the first signs of conditioning. The conclusion is made that the excitability changes in certain nerve cells are essential for determining the initial phase of conditioning.", "PMID": 452718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10153", "title": "[Frequency of self stimulation in cats when two parameters are changed simultaneously].", "content": "In cats, with electrodes implanted in the lateral hypothalamus a dependence was obtained of self-stimulation frequency (SSF) on paired changes of current strength and each of other stimulation parameters-duration, pulse duration and frequency. In some cases these parameters may independently affect SSF but generally they are in interaction. For stimulation with electrodes located at the level of the hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus, two-peak dependences of SSF on the current strength and the duration of stimulation pulses were obtained. An attempt to describe empirical response surfaces with a regression equation with members of not higher than 4-th order led to an insufficient accuracy of approximation as compared to the results obtained previously on rats. The cause of this insufficiency as well as two-peacked SSF dependencies are discussed in terms of morphofunctional heterogeneity of activated brain structures.", "contents": "[Frequency of self stimulation in cats when two parameters are changed simultaneously]. In cats, with electrodes implanted in the lateral hypothalamus a dependence was obtained of self-stimulation frequency (SSF) on paired changes of current strength and each of other stimulation parameters-duration, pulse duration and frequency. In some cases these parameters may independently affect SSF but generally they are in interaction. For stimulation with electrodes located at the level of the hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus, two-peak dependences of SSF on the current strength and the duration of stimulation pulses were obtained. An attempt to describe empirical response surfaces with a regression equation with members of not higher than 4-th order led to an insufficient accuracy of approximation as compared to the results obtained previously on rats. The cause of this insufficiency as well as two-peacked SSF dependencies are discussed in terms of morphofunctional heterogeneity of activated brain structures.", "PMID": 452714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10154", "title": "[Evoked potentials in the auditory cortex with systematic use of standard series of stimuli on the internal geniculate body].", "content": "Standard series of short electrical stimuli of the medial geniculate body were systematically applied to dogs with chronically implanted electrodes. Gradual formation was observed of a dependence of amplitudes of averaged EPs in the auditory cortex on the consecutive place of the stimulus in the series. This points to the existence in the dog's central nervous system of an elementary form of counting not only adequate signals, as has been previously shown, but also electrical stimuli of the thalamic nucleus. In contrast to what was observed in response to clicks, the EPs amplitude of MGB electrical stimulations increases by the middle of the series and diminishes by its end. It has been assumed that the cortical level of the analyser to which the stimulation was applied, suffices for the formation of the above phenomenon.", "contents": "[Evoked potentials in the auditory cortex with systematic use of standard series of stimuli on the internal geniculate body]. Standard series of short electrical stimuli of the medial geniculate body were systematically applied to dogs with chronically implanted electrodes. Gradual formation was observed of a dependence of amplitudes of averaged EPs in the auditory cortex on the consecutive place of the stimulus in the series. This points to the existence in the dog's central nervous system of an elementary form of counting not only adequate signals, as has been previously shown, but also electrical stimuli of the thalamic nucleus. In contrast to what was observed in response to clicks, the EPs amplitude of MGB electrical stimulations increases by the middle of the series and diminishes by its end. It has been assumed that the cortical level of the analyser to which the stimulation was applied, suffices for the formation of the above phenomenon.", "PMID": 452719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10155", "title": "[Possible model of interaction between areas of the cat cerebral cortex].", "content": "The effect of neuronal activity of one area in the cerebral cortex on the activity of another area was studied on adult alert cats with algorhythm of estimation of dependence and backward connection. On this basis a structural-functional model was developed of interaction between the visual and somatosensory cortical areas in the periods of aftereffect of repeated photic stimulations. This algorhythm permits to determine quantitatively the weight and direction of the mutual influences of these areas as well as to calculate approximately the volumes of the cellular masses which may participate in the formation of connections between these areas. It is assumed that the model may be used as one of the numerous means of studying the complex pattern of brain structures interactions.", "contents": "[Possible model of interaction between areas of the cat cerebral cortex]. The effect of neuronal activity of one area in the cerebral cortex on the activity of another area was studied on adult alert cats with algorhythm of estimation of dependence and backward connection. On this basis a structural-functional model was developed of interaction between the visual and somatosensory cortical areas in the periods of aftereffect of repeated photic stimulations. This algorhythm permits to determine quantitatively the weight and direction of the mutual influences of these areas as well as to calculate approximately the volumes of the cellular masses which may participate in the formation of connections between these areas. It is assumed that the model may be used as one of the numerous means of studying the complex pattern of brain structures interactions.", "PMID": 452720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10156", "title": "[Reactions of visual cortex neurons to painful stimulation].", "content": "Responses of 18 neurones of the first cortical projection visual area to photic and nociceptive stimulation (plunging of a paw into hot water) were studied in immobilized cats. The increase in blood pressure recorded in the femoral artery served as index of pain response. During plunging the paw into hot water 14 neurones showed an increase in the frequency of spike activity by 3 times as compared to the background. The changes in spike activity preceded the increase in the arterial pressure by 1-2 sec. 12 out of 14 neurones also responded to a photic stimulus. After administration of chlorpromazin the neuronal response to the nociceptive stimulus was blocked, but the response to the photic stimulus persisted. A conclusion is made that pain excitation reaches cortical visual neurones through functional connections, which are different from those functioning during activation of the same neurones with specific photic stimulus.", "contents": "[Reactions of visual cortex neurons to painful stimulation]. Responses of 18 neurones of the first cortical projection visual area to photic and nociceptive stimulation (plunging of a paw into hot water) were studied in immobilized cats. The increase in blood pressure recorded in the femoral artery served as index of pain response. During plunging the paw into hot water 14 neurones showed an increase in the frequency of spike activity by 3 times as compared to the background. The changes in spike activity preceded the increase in the arterial pressure by 1-2 sec. 12 out of 14 neurones also responded to a photic stimulus. After administration of chlorpromazin the neuronal response to the nociceptive stimulus was blocked, but the response to the photic stimulus persisted. A conclusion is made that pain excitation reaches cortical visual neurones through functional connections, which are different from those functioning during activation of the same neurones with specific photic stimulus.", "PMID": 452722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10157", "title": "[Cerebral evoked potential recovery cycles following exposure to a constant magnetic field in rats].", "content": "The recovery cycles of somatosensory evoked potentials (EP) in the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and cerebellar cortex were studied in experiments on rats. During the action of constant magnetic field (CMF) with an intensity, subthreshold for the changes in biopotentials, as well as after intensive magnetic influence, the recovery of the response to test stimulation of the nerve was more rapid and more complete, the duration of areactivity and subnormality periods was reduced and phenomenon of facilitation was observed. The obtained data testify to a rise in the level of excitability of the studied brain structures under the effect of CMF. Paired stimulation of sciatic nerve with definite interstimuli intervals may also lead to the intensification or provocation of the \"magnetic effect\"--the appearance in the EP structure of additional phases under the effect of the subthreshold field.", "contents": "[Cerebral evoked potential recovery cycles following exposure to a constant magnetic field in rats]. The recovery cycles of somatosensory evoked potentials (EP) in the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and cerebellar cortex were studied in experiments on rats. During the action of constant magnetic field (CMF) with an intensity, subthreshold for the changes in biopotentials, as well as after intensive magnetic influence, the recovery of the response to test stimulation of the nerve was more rapid and more complete, the duration of areactivity and subnormality periods was reduced and phenomenon of facilitation was observed. The obtained data testify to a rise in the level of excitability of the studied brain structures under the effect of CMF. Paired stimulation of sciatic nerve with definite interstimuli intervals may also lead to the intensification or provocation of the \"magnetic effect\"--the appearance in the EP structure of additional phases under the effect of the subthreshold field.", "PMID": 452721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10158", "title": "[Effect of damage to the serotonin- and noradrenergic systems of the brain on alimentary and defensive conditioned reflexes in rats].", "content": "A study was made on 79 Wistar male rats of the influence of destruction of single nuclei in the brain serotonin- and noradrenergic systems on their learning with alimentary and pain reinforcements. Electrolytic lesion of the raphe dorsal and medial nuclei hindered the formation of alimentary conditioned reflexes, while facilitating the elaboration of a conditioned active avoidance reaction. Destruction of the locus coeruleus was attended with improved alimentary learning, while the elaboration of conditioned active avoidance reaction proved to be more difficult as compared with that in the control animals. A conclusion is drawn that the nature of the influence of local ablation of individual nuclei in the brain serotonin- and noradrenergic systems on animals' learning is determined by the emotional sign of the reinforcing stimulus.", "contents": "[Effect of damage to the serotonin- and noradrenergic systems of the brain on alimentary and defensive conditioned reflexes in rats]. A study was made on 79 Wistar male rats of the influence of destruction of single nuclei in the brain serotonin- and noradrenergic systems on their learning with alimentary and pain reinforcements. Electrolytic lesion of the raphe dorsal and medial nuclei hindered the formation of alimentary conditioned reflexes, while facilitating the elaboration of a conditioned active avoidance reaction. Destruction of the locus coeruleus was attended with improved alimentary learning, while the elaboration of conditioned active avoidance reaction proved to be more difficult as compared with that in the control animals. A conclusion is drawn that the nature of the influence of local ablation of individual nuclei in the brain serotonin- and noradrenergic systems on animals' learning is determined by the emotional sign of the reinforcing stimulus.", "PMID": 452716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10159", "title": "[Analysis of hippocampal RNA in rats with genetically determined differences in their ability to learn].", "content": "Selection for twelve generations, by the speed of elaboration of a food-procuring motor conditioned reflex, produced an increased intensity of the synthesis of n and c fractions of the hippocampal RNA in rapidly learning animals as compared with those slowly learning. Electrophoretic analysis of the two fractions revealed similar series of RNA classes in the initial and the learning animals' groups. With high molecular RNA classes, insertion of the radioactive precursor was higher in the rapidly learning animals than in the slow learning ones. The learning process was attended with an increased insertion of the radioactive precursor in the area of high molecular n-RNA classes and in the area of 18S-4S RNA c-RNA. The percentage of radioactivity inserted in the poly-A RNA, as well as a change due to learning were significantly higher in the rapidly learning animals.", "contents": "[Analysis of hippocampal RNA in rats with genetically determined differences in their ability to learn]. Selection for twelve generations, by the speed of elaboration of a food-procuring motor conditioned reflex, produced an increased intensity of the synthesis of n and c fractions of the hippocampal RNA in rapidly learning animals as compared with those slowly learning. Electrophoretic analysis of the two fractions revealed similar series of RNA classes in the initial and the learning animals' groups. With high molecular RNA classes, insertion of the radioactive precursor was higher in the rapidly learning animals than in the slow learning ones. The learning process was attended with an increased insertion of the radioactive precursor in the area of high molecular n-RNA classes and in the area of 18S-4S RNA c-RNA. The percentage of radioactivity inserted in the poly-A RNA, as well as a change due to learning were significantly higher in the rapidly learning animals.", "PMID": 452717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10160", "title": "[Evaluation of research findings of potassium metabolism through biological modeling].", "content": "The cybernetic modelling of the water balance and the electrolyte balance has a heuristic value for the physiology and pathophysiology, by clearing up connections and open problems. This concerns problems of regulation size and regulation extension, but also the validity of reference values. Under this aspect is referred to the significance of steady state, input- and output inbalances and of the static and dynamic characteristics in the examination of the functional performance of the regulation circle. The static and dynamic compartment modelling is discussed at the instance of the potassium balance and exemplarily confirmed by findings of examinations. Here is referred to the special information value of the dynamic compartment analyse, as apart from the pool sizes (capacities) also intracorporal turnover rates (effects) are established.", "contents": "[Evaluation of research findings of potassium metabolism through biological modeling]. The cybernetic modelling of the water balance and the electrolyte balance has a heuristic value for the physiology and pathophysiology, by clearing up connections and open problems. This concerns problems of regulation size and regulation extension, but also the validity of reference values. Under this aspect is referred to the significance of steady state, input- and output inbalances and of the static and dynamic characteristics in the examination of the functional performance of the regulation circle. The static and dynamic compartment modelling is discussed at the instance of the potassium balance and exemplarily confirmed by findings of examinations. Here is referred to the special information value of the dynamic compartment analyse, as apart from the pool sizes (capacities) also intracorporal turnover rates (effects) are established.", "PMID": 452735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10161", "title": "[The effect of training on the physical fitness of patients with chronic kidney failure].", "content": "Apart from the specifically uraemically conditioned decreasing in vitality factors a physically inactivity which originates from the want of the patient or is iatrogenically induced, respectively is one of the causes for the decrease in physical vitality in patients with chronic renal insufficiency. 10 patients with chronic renal disease (serum creatinine 9.2 mg%) after an ergometric test were trained regularly twice a week for 30 minutes with a training intensity which corresponded to 80% of the load intensity. After a training duration of 15 weeks 9 of the 10 patients yielded a better result, in one female patient the bicycle-ergometric effect remained constant. The physical load capacity of the successfully trained 9 patients increased by 22.2 W from 80,5 W to 102.7 W. This corresponds to a 27.6% increase in vitality. After the end of the training the patients achieved a result which is higher than that of untrained patients with renal insufficiency in the same region of insufficiency. In comparison to healthy persons of the same age before the training the patients were to be loaded with 71% and after the training with 92% of the normal. The result of the training can also be read at a decrease of the heart rate and at a shortening of the recreation phase after constant load. The significant decrease of the systolic blood pressure on the 50 W-step indicates to a favourable influence of the RR-behaviour.", "contents": "[The effect of training on the physical fitness of patients with chronic kidney failure]. Apart from the specifically uraemically conditioned decreasing in vitality factors a physically inactivity which originates from the want of the patient or is iatrogenically induced, respectively is one of the causes for the decrease in physical vitality in patients with chronic renal insufficiency. 10 patients with chronic renal disease (serum creatinine 9.2 mg%) after an ergometric test were trained regularly twice a week for 30 minutes with a training intensity which corresponded to 80% of the load intensity. After a training duration of 15 weeks 9 of the 10 patients yielded a better result, in one female patient the bicycle-ergometric effect remained constant. The physical load capacity of the successfully trained 9 patients increased by 22.2 W from 80,5 W to 102.7 W. This corresponds to a 27.6% increase in vitality. After the end of the training the patients achieved a result which is higher than that of untrained patients with renal insufficiency in the same region of insufficiency. In comparison to healthy persons of the same age before the training the patients were to be loaded with 71% and after the training with 92% of the normal. The result of the training can also be read at a decrease of the heart rate and at a shortening of the recreation phase after constant load. The significant decrease of the systolic blood pressure on the 50 W-step indicates to a favourable influence of the RR-behaviour.", "PMID": 452736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10162", "title": "[Ophthalmologic studies of chronic hemodialysis patients].", "content": "The authors have examined 27 patients who participate in the chronic haemodialysis programme. It was established that the hyperphosphataemia, the hypocalcaemia and the later hypercalcaemia which developed in consequence of the chronic renal insufficiency are the cause of the calcification of the cornea and of the conjunctiva. In order to pursue this process the slit-lamp examination is recommended as necessary and useful method. The authors consider frequent neither the existence of the \"red eye\" symptom nor the development of a cataract.", "contents": "[Ophthalmologic studies of chronic hemodialysis patients]. The authors have examined 27 patients who participate in the chronic haemodialysis programme. It was established that the hyperphosphataemia, the hypocalcaemia and the later hypercalcaemia which developed in consequence of the chronic renal insufficiency are the cause of the calcification of the cornea and of the conjunctiva. In order to pursue this process the slit-lamp examination is recommended as necessary and useful method. The authors consider frequent neither the existence of the \"red eye\" symptom nor the development of a cataract.", "PMID": 452737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10163", "title": "[The significance of social factors in the genesis of psychic substructures. Suggestion on the schematic description of internalization in psychoanalytic theory].", "content": "In the conceptformation concerning the genesis of mental substructures, classic Psychoanalysis has much more stressed instinctual conflict conditions than psychosocial ones. The authors present a schematizing attempt which permits a description of the structure forming part of psychological processes following the internalization of social offers. A distinct disproportion of the modes of internalization is presumed for the social low and lower middle class. A normative, a final, a cognitive, a selfimage related, and an operational mode of psychosocial internalization are proposed.", "contents": "[The significance of social factors in the genesis of psychic substructures. Suggestion on the schematic description of internalization in psychoanalytic theory]. In the conceptformation concerning the genesis of mental substructures, classic Psychoanalysis has much more stressed instinctual conflict conditions than psychosocial ones. The authors present a schematizing attempt which permits a description of the structure forming part of psychological processes following the internalization of social offers. A distinct disproportion of the modes of internalization is presumed for the social low and lower middle class. A normative, a final, a cognitive, a selfimage related, and an operational mode of psychosocial internalization are proposed.", "PMID": 452732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10164", "title": "[Work addiction].", "content": "The symptomatology of workaholism (work addiction) was presented in the form of a questionnaire and compared with other forms of addiction, especially alcoholism. Then a case was used as example to illustrate the development of the illness and its psychodynamics. The therapy procedure was also briefly explained. Moreover the psychodynamics of workaholism (work addiction) are described, once again in comparison to other addictions. Finally the author gives general guidelines for therapy.", "contents": "[Work addiction]. The symptomatology of workaholism (work addiction) was presented in the form of a questionnaire and compared with other forms of addiction, especially alcoholism. Then a case was used as example to illustrate the development of the illness and its psychodynamics. The therapy procedure was also briefly explained. Moreover the psychodynamics of workaholism (work addiction) are described, once again in comparison to other addictions. Finally the author gives general guidelines for therapy.", "PMID": 452731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10165", "title": "[Serum complement and protein metabolism in chronic dialysis patients].", "content": "1. When a so-called free diet is granted there is the danger of a protein deficit, which can be proved in a significant decrease of the serum transferrin and of the complement factor E3c, in patients in the chronic haemodialysis programme. 2. Within the group undergoing dialysis a correlation analysis did not result in a statistically ascertained connection between the complement factor C3c and the total haemolytic activity and the transferrin, respectively. 3. On the basis of a diet analysis a connection between the protein supply and the serum transferrin level could be established, which was not to be proved for the complement factor C3c and the total haemolytic activity, respectively. 4. Low transferrin values in the serum seem to be followed by a deterioration of the anaemia situation of the patient undergoing haemodialysis. 5. Compared with the total haemolytic activity and the complement factor C3c the determination of the serum transferrin allows an essentially exacter information about the protein metabolism of the patient undergoing a chronic haemodialysis.", "contents": "[Serum complement and protein metabolism in chronic dialysis patients]. 1. When a so-called free diet is granted there is the danger of a protein deficit, which can be proved in a significant decrease of the serum transferrin and of the complement factor E3c, in patients in the chronic haemodialysis programme. 2. Within the group undergoing dialysis a correlation analysis did not result in a statistically ascertained connection between the complement factor C3c and the total haemolytic activity and the transferrin, respectively. 3. On the basis of a diet analysis a connection between the protein supply and the serum transferrin level could be established, which was not to be proved for the complement factor C3c and the total haemolytic activity, respectively. 4. Low transferrin values in the serum seem to be followed by a deterioration of the anaemia situation of the patient undergoing haemodialysis. 5. Compared with the total haemolytic activity and the complement factor C3c the determination of the serum transferrin allows an essentially exacter information about the protein metabolism of the patient undergoing a chronic haemodialysis.", "PMID": 452738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10166", "title": "[Kidney cyst puncture for diagnosis and therapy].", "content": "It is reported on 38 punctures of avascular space occupying lesions of the kidney. The method is little stressing and poor of risk. It is recommended above all for older patients for the exclusion of an avascular tumour or a tumour within a cyst. The demonstration of the cyst in the double contrast may be performed following the angiography. The simultaneous therapeutic effect of the obliteration of a benign cyst be instillation of Propyliodon and Vistarin is desirable. A positive effect (complete obliteration including essential shrinking) was observed in 91%. Roentgenograms without contrast medium are not sufficient for course control. When the results of the demonstration of the hollow space, the cytology and the arteriography are unclear, operation is recommended.", "contents": "[Kidney cyst puncture for diagnosis and therapy]. It is reported on 38 punctures of avascular space occupying lesions of the kidney. The method is little stressing and poor of risk. It is recommended above all for older patients for the exclusion of an avascular tumour or a tumour within a cyst. The demonstration of the cyst in the double contrast may be performed following the angiography. The simultaneous therapeutic effect of the obliteration of a benign cyst be instillation of Propyliodon and Vistarin is desirable. A positive effect (complete obliteration including essential shrinking) was observed in 91%. Roentgenograms without contrast medium are not sufficient for course control. When the results of the demonstration of the hollow space, the cytology and the arteriography are unclear, operation is recommended.", "PMID": 452739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10167", "title": "[Study of two psychosomatic disorders of the gastrointestinal system (ulcer, colitis) using the Frustration Test].", "content": "By means of the frustration test (PFT) authors studied two psychosomatic diseases (ulcer and colitis) of the gastrointestinal tract. According to pertinent literature and pertinent literature and personal experiences the test will be helpful in revealing elaboration modalities of stress which are of decisive importance in the pathogenesis of the diseases. The study has been carried out on altogether 281 persons divided into following groups: psychosomatic patients in the \"organic\" and the \"functional\" stage, neurotics, and sine morbo controls, respectively. Statistical analysis and the paired t-test was used for the evaluation of results. It has been established that the particular psychosomatic type of reaction, the PFT-profile corresponding the \"acting in\", having been assessed by authors did exist. Nevertheless it permits no differentiation between patients in the \"organic\" and \"functional\" stage, as well as the neurotics with psychosomatic complaints, respectively. Some specific signs have been found however being characteristic for psychosomatic patients in the \"organic\" stage. According to authors disturbances of personality development lead in both, the neurotic and, they psychosomatic patients to disorders of adaptation, the ego integration, and inadequacy of mechanisms of stress elaboration. PFT is suitable to clear severity of the psychic anomaly.", "contents": "[Study of two psychosomatic disorders of the gastrointestinal system (ulcer, colitis) using the Frustration Test]. By means of the frustration test (PFT) authors studied two psychosomatic diseases (ulcer and colitis) of the gastrointestinal tract. According to pertinent literature and pertinent literature and personal experiences the test will be helpful in revealing elaboration modalities of stress which are of decisive importance in the pathogenesis of the diseases. The study has been carried out on altogether 281 persons divided into following groups: psychosomatic patients in the \"organic\" and the \"functional\" stage, neurotics, and sine morbo controls, respectively. Statistical analysis and the paired t-test was used for the evaluation of results. It has been established that the particular psychosomatic type of reaction, the PFT-profile corresponding the \"acting in\", having been assessed by authors did exist. Nevertheless it permits no differentiation between patients in the \"organic\" and \"functional\" stage, as well as the neurotics with psychosomatic complaints, respectively. Some specific signs have been found however being characteristic for psychosomatic patients in the \"organic\" stage. According to authors disturbances of personality development lead in both, the neurotic and, they psychosomatic patients to disorders of adaptation, the ego integration, and inadequacy of mechanisms of stress elaboration. PFT is suitable to clear severity of the psychic anomaly.", "PMID": 452734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10168", "title": "[Empirical research and the psychoanalytic situation].", "content": "The possibilities of applying empirical research methods to the psychoanalytical treatment situation are discussed. Until now, the application of such methods has been too closely bound to the fixing of aims in standard quantitative scientific terms. Frequently \"reasons\" in psychological areas have been compared to \"causes\" in scientific terms. As a result, a displacement has occured in the understanding of the reciprocality and circular nature of communication processes. In order to achieve a differentiation between scientific approaches it has proved useful to contrast concepts of linear-causal determination with those of interaction. The consequences of placing varying emphasis on such concepts within the therapeutic situation are described. The important differentiation between a level of working alliance and one of transference and countertransference processes in psychoanalytical treatment technique may perhaps be pursued according to basic logical concepts. On the level of the working alliance, the therapeutic relationship is understood to be mainly linear-causal: working alliance does, of course, mean working together, however, the analyst is seen to evoke a specific effect in the patient, a specific way in which attitudes and fantasies are questioned. When processes of transference and countertransference have reached a specific intensity, the constellations of the relationship can be more precisely comprehended in terms of parameters based on interactional concepts: specific unconscious processes in a given therapeutic situation can most be easily be discerned in the reciprocality of feelings, associations and reactions, and not in terms of a theory which persits in conceptions of linear-causal determination. Hitherto, it has hardly been possible to comprehend those processes where interactional determination predominates, in quantative terms.", "contents": "[Empirical research and the psychoanalytic situation]. The possibilities of applying empirical research methods to the psychoanalytical treatment situation are discussed. Until now, the application of such methods has been too closely bound to the fixing of aims in standard quantitative scientific terms. Frequently \"reasons\" in psychological areas have been compared to \"causes\" in scientific terms. As a result, a displacement has occured in the understanding of the reciprocality and circular nature of communication processes. In order to achieve a differentiation between scientific approaches it has proved useful to contrast concepts of linear-causal determination with those of interaction. The consequences of placing varying emphasis on such concepts within the therapeutic situation are described. The important differentiation between a level of working alliance and one of transference and countertransference processes in psychoanalytical treatment technique may perhaps be pursued according to basic logical concepts. On the level of the working alliance, the therapeutic relationship is understood to be mainly linear-causal: working alliance does, of course, mean working together, however, the analyst is seen to evoke a specific effect in the patient, a specific way in which attitudes and fantasies are questioned. When processes of transference and countertransference have reached a specific intensity, the constellations of the relationship can be more precisely comprehended in terms of parameters based on interactional concepts: specific unconscious processes in a given therapeutic situation can most be easily be discerned in the reciprocality of feelings, associations and reactions, and not in terms of a theory which persits in conceptions of linear-causal determination. Hitherto, it has hardly been possible to comprehend those processes where interactional determination predominates, in quantative terms.", "PMID": 452733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10169", "title": "[Malignant hyperthermia: clinical aspects and treatment (author's transl)].", "content": "The essential epidemiologic, pathophysiologic and clinical data of malignant hyperthermia are presented. Prophylactic measures, early recognition and an effective therapy schedule may reduce the appallingly high lethality of this rare complication during general anaesthesia.", "contents": "[Malignant hyperthermia: clinical aspects and treatment (author's transl)]. The essential epidemiologic, pathophysiologic and clinical data of malignant hyperthermia are presented. Prophylactic measures, early recognition and an effective therapy schedule may reduce the appallingly high lethality of this rare complication during general anaesthesia.", "PMID": 452750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10170", "title": "[Simultaneous operations; analysis of 516 cases (author's transl)].", "content": "We performed from 1965 to 1977 516 accidental operations. In 38% and appendectomy, in 50% an operation at the biliary system and in 9% herniotomy was simultaneously performed.", "contents": "[Simultaneous operations; analysis of 516 cases (author's transl)]. We performed from 1965 to 1977 516 accidental operations. In 38% and appendectomy, in 50% an operation at the biliary system and in 9% herniotomy was simultaneously performed.", "PMID": 452751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10171", "title": "[Contraindications of combined surgical procedures in abdominal surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "Combined surgical procedures can often increase the entire trauma of operation. A comparative study of our patients showed, that small additional procedures did not influence the operative stress and had only few contraindications. On the other hand medium sized and greater simultaneous operations caused an increased number of postoperative complications, which to some extent resulted from additional surgery. Among other risk factors the increased rate of postoperative complications should be considered concerning the performance of combined surgical procedures.", "contents": "[Contraindications of combined surgical procedures in abdominal surgery (author's transl)]. Combined surgical procedures can often increase the entire trauma of operation. A comparative study of our patients showed, that small additional procedures did not influence the operative stress and had only few contraindications. On the other hand medium sized and greater simultaneous operations caused an increased number of postoperative complications, which to some extent resulted from additional surgery. Among other risk factors the increased rate of postoperative complications should be considered concerning the performance of combined surgical procedures.", "PMID": 452752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10172", "title": "[Bile-duct-stenosis after operation of the common bile-duct with T-tubes (author's transl)].", "content": "3 stenosis of the bile duct were observed in a postoperative study out of 25 patients, who underwent operations of the bile-duct-system and had T-tubes. These patients had no complaints. One patient had a reanastomosis of the bile duct, the stenosis was in the area of the anastomosis. The T-tubes of 2 patients were postoperatively under traction, which might have favoured the stenosis. The possibilities of intravenous cholangiography and endoscopic-retrograde cholangiography are discussed.", "contents": "[Bile-duct-stenosis after operation of the common bile-duct with T-tubes (author's transl)]. 3 stenosis of the bile duct were observed in a postoperative study out of 25 patients, who underwent operations of the bile-duct-system and had T-tubes. These patients had no complaints. One patient had a reanastomosis of the bile duct, the stenosis was in the area of the anastomosis. The T-tubes of 2 patients were postoperatively under traction, which might have favoured the stenosis. The possibilities of intravenous cholangiography and endoscopic-retrograde cholangiography are discussed.", "PMID": 452753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10173", "title": "[Reoperations on the extrahepatic bile ducts (author's transl)].", "content": "Out of 725 operative procedures at the gallbladder and bile duct there were 33 multiple interventions. The mortality rate of reoperations came up to 3 per cent. If feasible long-time T-drainage or ring-drainage is preferred. Biliodigestive anastomoses should be avoided.", "contents": "[Reoperations on the extrahepatic bile ducts (author's transl)]. Out of 725 operative procedures at the gallbladder and bile duct there were 33 multiple interventions. The mortality rate of reoperations came up to 3 per cent. If feasible long-time T-drainage or ring-drainage is preferred. Biliodigestive anastomoses should be avoided.", "PMID": 452754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10174", "title": "[Topography of the vagus nerves in the oesophageal hiatus (author's transl)].", "content": "Topographic variations of the vagus nerves are important to know for modern surgery of the stomach (SPV). That is why vagus nerves were prepared in 53 human cadavers. Based on these findings the perioesophageal plexus and the vagal truncs in the hiatus oesophageus are precisely described including the situs of a diaphragmatic hernia and an intrathoracic aortic aneurysm.", "contents": "[Topography of the vagus nerves in the oesophageal hiatus (author's transl)]. Topographic variations of the vagus nerves are important to know for modern surgery of the stomach (SPV). That is why vagus nerves were prepared in 53 human cadavers. Based on these findings the perioesophageal plexus and the vagal truncs in the hiatus oesophageus are precisely described including the situs of a diaphragmatic hernia and an intrathoracic aortic aneurysm.", "PMID": 452755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10175", "title": "[Prognostic indices in acute pancreatitis (author's transl)].", "content": "In a retrospective study 55 patients with acute pancreatitis were reviewed in order to establish the prognostic value of 11 indices which can be determined either at admission of 48 hours after the onset of the disease. The results show: 1. the 5 indices determined at admission (age, white blood cell count, blood glucose, SGOT, LDH) do not permit a clear identification of the variable courses of acute pancreatitis, 2. a high risk group can be selected; in this group an early intensive care is recommended, i.e. a vigorous fluid replacement, endotracheal intubation and assisted ventilation with PEEP, and, if necessary, peritoneal dialysis. Furthermore these indices are helpful to decide very early whether a patient has to be transmitted to a medical centre for intensive care and/or surgical treatment.", "contents": "[Prognostic indices in acute pancreatitis (author's transl)]. In a retrospective study 55 patients with acute pancreatitis were reviewed in order to establish the prognostic value of 11 indices which can be determined either at admission of 48 hours after the onset of the disease. The results show: 1. the 5 indices determined at admission (age, white blood cell count, blood glucose, SGOT, LDH) do not permit a clear identification of the variable courses of acute pancreatitis, 2. a high risk group can be selected; in this group an early intensive care is recommended, i.e. a vigorous fluid replacement, endotracheal intubation and assisted ventilation with PEEP, and, if necessary, peritoneal dialysis. Furthermore these indices are helpful to decide very early whether a patient has to be transmitted to a medical centre for intensive care and/or surgical treatment.", "PMID": 452756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10176", "title": "[The relationship between haptoglobin type and serum agglutination titers against group G streptococci with the T4-antigen in pregnant women and newborn infants].", "content": "The relationship between haptoglobin type and titer of agglutination against streptococci carrying the T4-antigen was examined in 100 pairs of sera (mother/child). In healthy pregnant women high titers were predominant in individuals of haptoglobin type 2--2. Lower titers were found in sera of women with diseases during pregnancy. In 4% of the newborns only the haptoglobin type could be recognized. In comparison of maternal and neonate titers of agglutination pointed out the antibody-like activity of haptoglobins.", "contents": "[The relationship between haptoglobin type and serum agglutination titers against group G streptococci with the T4-antigen in pregnant women and newborn infants]. The relationship between haptoglobin type and titer of agglutination against streptococci carrying the T4-antigen was examined in 100 pairs of sera (mother/child). In healthy pregnant women high titers were predominant in individuals of haptoglobin type 2--2. Lower titers were found in sera of women with diseases during pregnancy. In 4% of the newborns only the haptoglobin type could be recognized. In comparison of maternal and neonate titers of agglutination pointed out the antibody-like activity of haptoglobins.", "PMID": 452758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10177", "title": "[Intrauterine infections in pregnancy. The significance of premature rupture of the membranes and early lung complications].", "content": "The course of intrauterine infections are illustrated and 5 maternal deaths reported. Early lung complications were predominant, described as shock lung or septic pneumonia. Renal complications or disseminated intravascular coagulation were absent or developed late. In contrast to gram negative sepsis there was a frequent association with premature rupture of the membranes, which indicates the danger of this event. On microbiology gram positive rods were found more frequently than a mixed flora. The morphology of intrauterine infection is similar to those of puerperal sepsis although the clinical course is quite different. This indicates a change in infectious pattern during the last centuries.", "contents": "[Intrauterine infections in pregnancy. The significance of premature rupture of the membranes and early lung complications]. The course of intrauterine infections are illustrated and 5 maternal deaths reported. Early lung complications were predominant, described as shock lung or septic pneumonia. Renal complications or disseminated intravascular coagulation were absent or developed late. In contrast to gram negative sepsis there was a frequent association with premature rupture of the membranes, which indicates the danger of this event. On microbiology gram positive rods were found more frequently than a mixed flora. The morphology of intrauterine infection is similar to those of puerperal sepsis although the clinical course is quite different. This indicates a change in infectious pattern during the last centuries.", "PMID": 452759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10178", "title": "[Priming with intracervically administered prostaglandin F2 alpha before abortion].", "content": "75 Patients were treated with Prostaglandin-F2 alpha-gel intracervical to ripe the cervix prior to first trimester abortion. In all patients we get the wanted effect with Prostaglandin-gel. Priming of the cervix seemed to be especially needed with PG-gel in young patients with first pregnancy.", "contents": "[Priming with intracervically administered prostaglandin F2 alpha before abortion]. 75 Patients were treated with Prostaglandin-F2 alpha-gel intracervical to ripe the cervix prior to first trimester abortion. In all patients we get the wanted effect with Prostaglandin-gel. Priming of the cervix seemed to be especially needed with PG-gel in young patients with first pregnancy.", "PMID": 452760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10179", "title": "[External cardiotocography utilizing the US-Doppler principle developed by VEB Ultraschalltechnik Halle].", "content": "Clinical report about an ultrasonic cardiotocograph developed by VEB Ultraschalltechnik Halle/GDR. The ultrasonic-option was combined with variable modules of the Biomonitor system (VEB Kombinat Messger\u00e4tewerk Zw\u00f6nitz).--Efficiency and clinical results registered with this new equipment are demonstrated by means of numerous FHF-patterns.--The cardiotocographic method is very important in connection with a further decrease of perinatal mortality and morbidity. A shortly beginning of industrial production is recommended.", "contents": "[External cardiotocography utilizing the US-Doppler principle developed by VEB Ultraschalltechnik Halle]. Clinical report about an ultrasonic cardiotocograph developed by VEB Ultraschalltechnik Halle/GDR. The ultrasonic-option was combined with variable modules of the Biomonitor system (VEB Kombinat Messger\u00e4tewerk Zw\u00f6nitz).--Efficiency and clinical results registered with this new equipment are demonstrated by means of numerous FHF-patterns.--The cardiotocographic method is very important in connection with a further decrease of perinatal mortality and morbidity. A shortly beginning of industrial production is recommended.", "PMID": 452761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10180", "title": "[Experience with nuclear medical placenta perfusion diagnosis].", "content": "Report about evaluation of placenta perfusion studies in 105 females with pregnancies in risk. They were aged between 17 and 48 years and examined during the 27. to 42. week of gestation. Placenta was located after preinjection of 0.1 mCi 113mIn chloride. Examination was performed with a gamma camera, Type NC-HP, and a computing system PDP 11/10 (Gamma 11) on line. Sequential scintigraphy after slow injection of 1.5 mCi 113mIn chloride with 2-seconds-frames over a period of 3 minutes. Performance of histogramm after ROI-contouring of placenta. Half time of the ascending limb of placenta curve is the criterion of perfusion. The mathematical formalism was developed assuming an one-compartment model by Lorenz and Ostertag. Analyzing on the screen by hand we received normal values of half time: 19 +/- 3.4 seconds; using automatical analysis for suitable e-functions developed by Potschwadek we received normal values of half time: 11 less than 1.8 sec.", "contents": "[Experience with nuclear medical placenta perfusion diagnosis]. Report about evaluation of placenta perfusion studies in 105 females with pregnancies in risk. They were aged between 17 and 48 years and examined during the 27. to 42. week of gestation. Placenta was located after preinjection of 0.1 mCi 113mIn chloride. Examination was performed with a gamma camera, Type NC-HP, and a computing system PDP 11/10 (Gamma 11) on line. Sequential scintigraphy after slow injection of 1.5 mCi 113mIn chloride with 2-seconds-frames over a period of 3 minutes. Performance of histogramm after ROI-contouring of placenta. Half time of the ascending limb of placenta curve is the criterion of perfusion. The mathematical formalism was developed assuming an one-compartment model by Lorenz and Ostertag. Analyzing on the screen by hand we received normal values of half time: 19 +/- 3.4 seconds; using automatical analysis for suitable e-functions developed by Potschwadek we received normal values of half time: 11 less than 1.8 sec.", "PMID": 452762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10181", "title": "[Inversion of the uterus in the postpartal period].", "content": "A case of inversion of the uterus in the postpartale period is reported on, which was treated by a modified operation of K\u00fcstner.", "contents": "[Inversion of the uterus in the postpartal period]. A case of inversion of the uterus in the postpartale period is reported on, which was treated by a modified operation of K\u00fcstner.", "PMID": 452763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10182", "title": "[Serological integration of all known Arizona-species into the Kauffmann-White-scheme (author's transl)].", "content": "This paper reports on the integration of the Arizona group as sub-genus III into the K. W.-Schema. For many years comparative serological analyses of all serotypes belonging to sub-genus III have been carried out and detailed antigenic formulae have been established which now, for the first time, are published in full. These detailed antigenic formulae are not only of the utmost significance for the precise definition of serotypes but are also of immense importance to reference laboratories, in particular for the production of specific diagnostic sera, their correct absorption and specificity control.", "contents": "[Serological integration of all known Arizona-species into the Kauffmann-White-scheme (author's transl)]. This paper reports on the integration of the Arizona group as sub-genus III into the K. W.-Schema. For many years comparative serological analyses of all serotypes belonging to sub-genus III have been carried out and detailed antigenic formulae have been established which now, for the first time, are published in full. These detailed antigenic formulae are not only of the utmost significance for the precise definition of serotypes but are also of immense importance to reference laboratories, in particular for the production of specific diagnostic sera, their correct absorption and specificity control.", "PMID": 452764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10183", "title": "Preparation and properties of a standardized lipopolysaccharide from salmonella abortus equi (Novo-Pyrexal).", "content": "The paper describes the preparation of the lipopolysaccharide from Salmonella abortus equi as obtained by standardized methods. The include the extraction with pehnol/water followed by phenol/chloroform/petroleum ether extraction, ultra-centrifugation, electrodialysis and conversion to the uniform sodium salt form. Chemical composition and physico chemical properties are described. The preparation, which is free from contaminants, was tested for local Shwartzman reactivity, pyrogenicity, lethal toxicity, mitogenicity, reactivity towards complement and tumoricidal action.", "contents": "Preparation and properties of a standardized lipopolysaccharide from salmonella abortus equi (Novo-Pyrexal). The paper describes the preparation of the lipopolysaccharide from Salmonella abortus equi as obtained by standardized methods. The include the extraction with pehnol/water followed by phenol/chloroform/petroleum ether extraction, ultra-centrifugation, electrodialysis and conversion to the uniform sodium salt form. Chemical composition and physico chemical properties are described. The preparation, which is free from contaminants, was tested for local Shwartzman reactivity, pyrogenicity, lethal toxicity, mitogenicity, reactivity towards complement and tumoricidal action.", "PMID": 452765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10184", "title": "[Nosology, epidemiology and bacteriological taxonomy: salmonella infections as an example (author's transl)].", "content": "Salmonella infections are discussed as an example of the interdependence of the classification of infectious diseases on the one hand and the taxonomy of bacteria on the other. The term paratyphoid was first created as a name for a disease but was later turned into a common name for the cause and then refined into a specific epitheton of a species of bacteria. It was difficult to create terms for pathology as long as a reliable differentiation of related species of bacteria was not possible, so both a typhoid and an enteric form of paratyphoid fever were referred to, superimposing the clinical differentiation of typhoid fevers and food poisoning (enteritis infectiosa). Epidemiology and bacteriology cannot expect their classifications to determine the classification of bacteria on the level of genus and subgenus, but systematic bacteriology should not conserve or create species and subspecies that are unnecessary for applied medical bacteriology. The needs of epidemiology usually require identification and determination of serovar, biovar and phagovar of the individual strain, but for pathology it is important to classify series of strains on the basis of certain combinations of serovars, biovars, and phagovars as special forms.", "contents": "[Nosology, epidemiology and bacteriological taxonomy: salmonella infections as an example (author's transl)]. Salmonella infections are discussed as an example of the interdependence of the classification of infectious diseases on the one hand and the taxonomy of bacteria on the other. The term paratyphoid was first created as a name for a disease but was later turned into a common name for the cause and then refined into a specific epitheton of a species of bacteria. It was difficult to create terms for pathology as long as a reliable differentiation of related species of bacteria was not possible, so both a typhoid and an enteric form of paratyphoid fever were referred to, superimposing the clinical differentiation of typhoid fevers and food poisoning (enteritis infectiosa). Epidemiology and bacteriology cannot expect their classifications to determine the classification of bacteria on the level of genus and subgenus, but systematic bacteriology should not conserve or create species and subspecies that are unnecessary for applied medical bacteriology. The needs of epidemiology usually require identification and determination of serovar, biovar and phagovar of the individual strain, but for pathology it is important to classify series of strains on the basis of certain combinations of serovars, biovars, and phagovars as special forms.", "PMID": 452766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10185", "title": "[On the frequency of occurrence of salmonella species. An analysis of 1.5 millions trains of salmonellae isolated in 109 countries during the period 1934-1975 (author's transl)].", "content": "1 542 257 strains of Salmonellae isolated in 109 countries during the period 1934-75 were analysed to determine the relative frequency of the 1864 species currently recognized. In addition to the absolute numbers of strains isolated, the \"age\" of the species and the numbers of reports were used to compute a frequency quotient (QF). It is proposed, on the basis of occurrence, that species be classified as most frequent, frequent, uncommon, rare and very rare. The Salmonella species most frequently isolated from man, food animals, other animals, foods, feeding stuffs, and water including sewage are listed in tables.", "contents": "[On the frequency of occurrence of salmonella species. An analysis of 1.5 millions trains of salmonellae isolated in 109 countries during the period 1934-1975 (author's transl)]. 1 542 257 strains of Salmonellae isolated in 109 countries during the period 1934-75 were analysed to determine the relative frequency of the 1864 species currently recognized. In addition to the absolute numbers of strains isolated, the \"age\" of the species and the numbers of reports were used to compute a frequency quotient (QF). It is proposed, on the basis of occurrence, that species be classified as most frequent, frequent, uncommon, rare and very rare. The Salmonella species most frequently isolated from man, food animals, other animals, foods, feeding stuffs, and water including sewage are listed in tables.", "PMID": 452767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10186", "title": "[Tetrathionate reductase, beta-glucuronidase, and ONPG-test in the genus Salmonella (author's transl)].", "content": "Tetrathionate reduction can be detected simply by acid production. Some commonly occuring Salmonella serotypes can be subdivided into biotypes by the tetrathionate reductase test. The enzyme beta-glucuronidase can be detected using p-nitro-phenyl-beta-D-glucuronide as substrate. The enzyme was found in 30% of Salmonella strains. Each Salmonella serotype was found homogeneous with respect to presence of (or lack of) beta-glucuronidase. This test can then be useful for the identification of monophasic or non-motile variants of normally diphasic serotypes. A positive ONPG-test does not always indicate the presence of a true beta-galactosidase. In the genus Salmonella, ONPG-positive strains of sub-genus III and strains harboring a lactose-plasmid have a true beta-galactosidase. A late positive ONPG-test - as commonly shown by subgenus II strains - is not due to a true beta-galactosidase. The distinction between beta-galactosidase positive and beta-galactosidase negative strains among ONPG-positive strains may be taxonomically significant.", "contents": "[Tetrathionate reductase, beta-glucuronidase, and ONPG-test in the genus Salmonella (author's transl)]. Tetrathionate reduction can be detected simply by acid production. Some commonly occuring Salmonella serotypes can be subdivided into biotypes by the tetrathionate reductase test. The enzyme beta-glucuronidase can be detected using p-nitro-phenyl-beta-D-glucuronide as substrate. The enzyme was found in 30% of Salmonella strains. Each Salmonella serotype was found homogeneous with respect to presence of (or lack of) beta-glucuronidase. This test can then be useful for the identification of monophasic or non-motile variants of normally diphasic serotypes. A positive ONPG-test does not always indicate the presence of a true beta-galactosidase. In the genus Salmonella, ONPG-positive strains of sub-genus III and strains harboring a lactose-plasmid have a true beta-galactosidase. A late positive ONPG-test - as commonly shown by subgenus II strains - is not due to a true beta-galactosidase. The distinction between beta-galactosidase positive and beta-galactosidase negative strains among ONPG-positive strains may be taxonomically significant.", "PMID": 452769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10187", "title": "[Short-term oral chemoprophylaxis before intestine surgery. Quantitative determination of bacteria and fungi in stool specimens (author's transl)].", "content": "The methods of quantitative analysis of aerobe and anaerobe microbes and fungi stool specimens are described. The results of the studies in health people are compared to the results in patients undergoing surgical treatment of intestinal tract. A group of these patients received Neomycin and Bacitracin orally as short-time chemoprophylaxis to diminish possible woundinfection and/or sepsis. After oral medication germs as Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides and Clostridium (not Cl. perfringens) are reduced or lost, Veillonella, Eubacterium, Fusiformis, Peptostreptococcus and Lactobacillus were suppressed. Resistant strains of E. coli and Enterococci increased to high concentration/g faeces. After treatment the rate of gram-negative bacteria resistant to Neomycin increased. This might be of epidemiologically importance for the distribution of microbes resistant to Neomycin and other aminoglycosides as Klebsiella, Candida spec. and Torulopsis.", "contents": "[Short-term oral chemoprophylaxis before intestine surgery. Quantitative determination of bacteria and fungi in stool specimens (author's transl)]. The methods of quantitative analysis of aerobe and anaerobe microbes and fungi stool specimens are described. The results of the studies in health people are compared to the results in patients undergoing surgical treatment of intestinal tract. A group of these patients received Neomycin and Bacitracin orally as short-time chemoprophylaxis to diminish possible woundinfection and/or sepsis. After oral medication germs as Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides and Clostridium (not Cl. perfringens) are reduced or lost, Veillonella, Eubacterium, Fusiformis, Peptostreptococcus and Lactobacillus were suppressed. Resistant strains of E. coli and Enterococci increased to high concentration/g faeces. After treatment the rate of gram-negative bacteria resistant to Neomycin increased. This might be of epidemiologically importance for the distribution of microbes resistant to Neomycin and other aminoglycosides as Klebsiella, Candida spec. and Torulopsis.", "PMID": 452770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10188", "title": "Genetic determination of lipopolysaccharide: locus of O-specific unit polymerase in group E of salmonella.", "content": "By genetic analysis of a semirough mutant of Salmonella muenster we show that a gene determining the polymerization of the repeating units of the O-3, 10-type lipopolysaccharide side chain in Salmonella of group E resides in the his-linked rfb cluster.", "contents": "Genetic determination of lipopolysaccharide: locus of O-specific unit polymerase in group E of salmonella. By genetic analysis of a semirough mutant of Salmonella muenster we show that a gene determining the polymerization of the repeating units of the O-3, 10-type lipopolysaccharide side chain in Salmonella of group E resides in the his-linked rfb cluster.", "PMID": 452771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10189", "title": "[Search for the presence of salmonella in the channels of Bruges (author's transl)].", "content": "Salmonella, as indicators of faecal pollution, were monitored for four years in the water of Bruges' channels. Sanitary engineering works resulted in the cleansing of most of the channels which were open sewers; these works successfully transformed the heart of the city.", "contents": "[Search for the presence of salmonella in the channels of Bruges (author's transl)]. Salmonella, as indicators of faecal pollution, were monitored for four years in the water of Bruges' channels. Sanitary engineering works resulted in the cleansing of most of the channels which were open sewers; these works successfully transformed the heart of the city.", "PMID": 452772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10190", "title": "Enterobacteriaceae infections in man and animals and detection of their natural reservoirs in India.", "content": "The study presents a summary of the results regarding the presence of Enterobacteriaceae in domestic animals and birds, endeavouring to explain the origin of the infections. Wild reptiles, amphibians, mammalia, rodents and birds were examined into the demonstration of Enterobacteriaceae, whereby particular attention was paid to the following species: Arizona, Edwardsiella, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Serratia, Yersinia and Erwinia.", "contents": "Enterobacteriaceae infections in man and animals and detection of their natural reservoirs in India. The study presents a summary of the results regarding the presence of Enterobacteriaceae in domestic animals and birds, endeavouring to explain the origin of the infections. Wild reptiles, amphibians, mammalia, rodents and birds were examined into the demonstration of Enterobacteriaceae, whereby particular attention was paid to the following species: Arizona, Edwardsiella, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Serratia, Yersinia and Erwinia.", "PMID": 452773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10191", "title": "[Salmonella in free living snakes of Northern Germany (author's transl)].", "content": "Fourty-nine adders (Vipera berus L.) and thirty-one grass-snakes (Nitrix natrix L.) from northern Germany were investigated by cloacal swabs. The samples were usually taken in the field and preenriched in peptone water and further-on processed in three steps of tetrathionate. After each step of enrichment the material was transfered to salmonella shigella agar and fuchsine lactose agar (acc. to Endo). Salmonella screening was done by inoculation of lactose positive and lactose negative colonies into lysine iron agar (acc. to Edwards and Fife). Salmonella excretion was found in 59% of the adders and in 68% of the grass-snakes. Some specimens excreted several Salmonella species. 22 different species resp. variants were detected, of which 19 species belonged to subgenus III (Arizona). Subgenus I occured infrequently and was represented by S. duesseldorf, S. heidelberg and S. sunnycove. Three new triphasic variants S. III 17:Z10: e, n, x, z15: z56, S. III 38: (k): z35:z56 and S. III 50:z10:z:z56 of species already known and four so far unknown species S. III (6), 14: 1,v:z (Ar. 7a, 7c:23-31), S. III 21:1,v:z57 (Ar. 22:23-40a,40c), S. III 43:1,v:z56 (Ar. 21:23-38) and S. III 28:z10:z57 (Ar. 35:27-40a,40c) were discovered. The present results suggest that adders and grass-snakes in northern Germany represent autonomous reservoirs of salmonellae. There exist only few relations between the Salmonella species in these kinds of snakes and other European snakes.", "contents": "[Salmonella in free living snakes of Northern Germany (author's transl)]. Fourty-nine adders (Vipera berus L.) and thirty-one grass-snakes (Nitrix natrix L.) from northern Germany were investigated by cloacal swabs. The samples were usually taken in the field and preenriched in peptone water and further-on processed in three steps of tetrathionate. After each step of enrichment the material was transfered to salmonella shigella agar and fuchsine lactose agar (acc. to Endo). Salmonella screening was done by inoculation of lactose positive and lactose negative colonies into lysine iron agar (acc. to Edwards and Fife). Salmonella excretion was found in 59% of the adders and in 68% of the grass-snakes. Some specimens excreted several Salmonella species. 22 different species resp. variants were detected, of which 19 species belonged to subgenus III (Arizona). Subgenus I occured infrequently and was represented by S. duesseldorf, S. heidelberg and S. sunnycove. Three new triphasic variants S. III 17:Z10: e, n, x, z15: z56, S. III 38: (k): z35:z56 and S. III 50:z10:z:z56 of species already known and four so far unknown species S. III (6), 14: 1,v:z (Ar. 7a, 7c:23-31), S. III 21:1,v:z57 (Ar. 22:23-40a,40c), S. III 43:1,v:z56 (Ar. 21:23-38) and S. III 28:z10:z57 (Ar. 35:27-40a,40c) were discovered. The present results suggest that adders and grass-snakes in northern Germany represent autonomous reservoirs of salmonellae. There exist only few relations between the Salmonella species in these kinds of snakes and other European snakes.", "PMID": 452774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10192", "title": "[Action of laser radiation on the properties of staphylococci].", "content": "The action of laser irradiation on some properties of three staphylococcus strains (Wood-46, 8325 PIIde and 8325-I) was investigated. In case of the action of LG-23 and LGI-21 there was a loss of hemolytic, lecitovitelase and coagulase activity in 0.2--0.6% of the cells. The loss frequency depended on the irradiation intensity. LG-75 energy caused no loss of the mentioned signs.", "contents": "[Action of laser radiation on the properties of staphylococci]. The action of laser irradiation on some properties of three staphylococcus strains (Wood-46, 8325 PIIde and 8325-I) was investigated. In case of the action of LG-23 and LGI-21 there was a loss of hemolytic, lecitovitelase and coagulase activity in 0.2--0.6% of the cells. The loss frequency depended on the irradiation intensity. LG-75 energy caused no loss of the mentioned signs.", "PMID": 452775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10193", "title": "[Possibility of purifying cholera toxin (choleragen) and its antibodies by an immunosorption method].", "content": "A study was made to establish the possibility of using an immune adsorbent based on polyacrylamide gel with the concentration of T = 10% and C = 25% for the purification of cholerogen and antibodies to it. For the isolation of cholera toxin the gamma globulin fraction of antitoxic serum was incorporated into the adsorbent; for obtaining antibodies an adsorbent with partially purified cholerogen was used. Desorption was made with 3 M sodium rhodanide solution. The yield of cholerogen was 41%, and the yield of antibodies was 4.5%. The non-specific sorption of the immune adsorbents was insignificant.", "contents": "[Possibility of purifying cholera toxin (choleragen) and its antibodies by an immunosorption method]. A study was made to establish the possibility of using an immune adsorbent based on polyacrylamide gel with the concentration of T = 10% and C = 25% for the purification of cholerogen and antibodies to it. For the isolation of cholera toxin the gamma globulin fraction of antitoxic serum was incorporated into the adsorbent; for obtaining antibodies an adsorbent with partially purified cholerogen was used. Desorption was made with 3 M sodium rhodanide solution. The yield of cholerogen was 41%, and the yield of antibodies was 4.5%. The non-specific sorption of the immune adsorbents was insignificant.", "PMID": 452780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10194", "title": "[Immunological diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumonias].", "content": "A complex of immunological cell tests with M. pneumoniae antigen (the lymphocyte blast-cell transformation test, the allergic neutrophil alteration test) was carried out in order to establish the correlation between the results of positive seroconversion and the sepcific immunological reactivity of lymphoid cells in pneumonia patients. Mycoplasmic cutireactive allergen, when used for the accelerated diagnosis of mycoplasmic pneumonia in humans, was shown to be specific and safe. Cuti-allergic tests with mycoplasmic allergen allowed to diagnose mycoplasmic pneumonia at early stages (beginning from days 5--7), which ensures the possibility of indicating etiotropic treatment to patients in due time.", "contents": "[Immunological diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumonias]. A complex of immunological cell tests with M. pneumoniae antigen (the lymphocyte blast-cell transformation test, the allergic neutrophil alteration test) was carried out in order to establish the correlation between the results of positive seroconversion and the sepcific immunological reactivity of lymphoid cells in pneumonia patients. Mycoplasmic cutireactive allergen, when used for the accelerated diagnosis of mycoplasmic pneumonia in humans, was shown to be specific and safe. Cuti-allergic tests with mycoplasmic allergen allowed to diagnose mycoplasmic pneumonia at early stages (beginning from days 5--7), which ensures the possibility of indicating etiotropic treatment to patients in due time.", "PMID": 452781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10195", "title": "[Dynamics of Leptospira colony formation on solid nutrient media].", "content": "The formation of Leptospira colonies on solid culture media varying in composition were studied. In all species of Leptospira 3 main periods of colony development were revealed, each of them having its characteristic morphological changes connected with the growth of the colony deeply into agar.", "contents": "[Dynamics of Leptospira colony formation on solid nutrient media]. The formation of Leptospira colonies on solid culture media varying in composition were studied. In all species of Leptospira 3 main periods of colony development were revealed, each of them having its characteristic morphological changes connected with the growth of the colony deeply into agar.", "PMID": 452782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10196", "title": "[Syndromology of a vascular lesion of the oral regions of the brain stem].", "content": "Nineteen patients with a history of circulatory brain disorders in the oral areas of the brain stem showed, along with known neurological syndromes, psychopathological conditions (peduncular hallucinosis, oneiroid and deliriously changed consciousness) and other more rare syndromes (hypersomnia, akinetical states with mutism and intellectual and memory impairment). Apart from describing the clinical picture of these conditions, the pathogenetical mechanisms underlying the syndromes are suggested.", "contents": "[Syndromology of a vascular lesion of the oral regions of the brain stem]. Nineteen patients with a history of circulatory brain disorders in the oral areas of the brain stem showed, along with known neurological syndromes, psychopathological conditions (peduncular hallucinosis, oneiroid and deliriously changed consciousness) and other more rare syndromes (hypersomnia, akinetical states with mutism and intellectual and memory impairment). Apart from describing the clinical picture of these conditions, the pathogenetical mechanisms underlying the syndromes are suggested.", "PMID": 452783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10197", "title": "[Spontaneous spinal subarachnoidal hemorrhages].", "content": "Spontaneous spinal subarachnoidal hemorrhages were diagnosed in 15 patients. Of these in 12 cases the diagnosis of the underlying disease was established. The main symptom of spontaneous subarachnoidal hemorrhages (SSH) is shown by the appearance of acute spinal pain, followed by meningeal and mild general cerebral disorders. Eventually most of the patients develop focal spinal symptoms. Depending upon the combinations and succession of these symptoms 4 clinical variants of SSH were distinguished. Appropriate evaluation of the anamnestic and clinical data, with the use of lumbar punctures, allows a correct diagnosis, although in an atypical development it may cause certain difficulties.", "contents": "[Spontaneous spinal subarachnoidal hemorrhages]. Spontaneous spinal subarachnoidal hemorrhages were diagnosed in 15 patients. Of these in 12 cases the diagnosis of the underlying disease was established. The main symptom of spontaneous subarachnoidal hemorrhages (SSH) is shown by the appearance of acute spinal pain, followed by meningeal and mild general cerebral disorders. Eventually most of the patients develop focal spinal symptoms. Depending upon the combinations and succession of these symptoms 4 clinical variants of SSH were distinguished. Appropriate evaluation of the anamnestic and clinical data, with the use of lumbar punctures, allows a correct diagnosis, although in an atypical development it may cause certain difficulties.", "PMID": 452784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10198", "title": "[Characteristics of the restoration of motor functions in patients who have had a cerebral stroke depending on a lesion of the right and left hemispheres].", "content": "A group of 227 patients was observed, who following brain strokes underwent rehabilitative and residual phases. The lesion focus was localized in the right and left hemispheres in 116 and 111 patients, respectively. The results of clinical and clinical-neuropsychological studies showed a worse rehabilitation of motor functions in patients with right hemispheric lesions. It was conditioned by components of an apractognostical syndrome and particularly of anozognosia. Therefore, rehabilitation specialists should treat patients who had brain strokes, taking into consideration the localization of the lesion focus and promote the use of techniques directed toward a correction of specific right hemispheric defects.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the restoration of motor functions in patients who have had a cerebral stroke depending on a lesion of the right and left hemispheres]. A group of 227 patients was observed, who following brain strokes underwent rehabilitative and residual phases. The lesion focus was localized in the right and left hemispheres in 116 and 111 patients, respectively. The results of clinical and clinical-neuropsychological studies showed a worse rehabilitation of motor functions in patients with right hemispheric lesions. It was conditioned by components of an apractognostical syndrome and particularly of anozognosia. Therefore, rehabilitation specialists should treat patients who had brain strokes, taking into consideration the localization of the lesion focus and promote the use of techniques directed toward a correction of specific right hemispheric defects.", "PMID": 452785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10199", "title": "[Clinical electroencephalographic characteristics of the phasic nature of the course of severe cerebrocranial injury].", "content": "In order to early recognize intracranial hematomas and contusions, differential diagnostic criteria for analysis of neurological symptomatology and EEG signs are considered from the standpoint of a phasic clinical progress of traumatic pathological conditions of the brain. The EEG syndromes of initial, pronounced and gross synchronization correlated with the clinical phases of subcompensation, mild and deep decompensation. The study demonstrates a contrary trend in the dynamics of the clinical and EEG data in compression and contusion of the brain.", "contents": "[Clinical electroencephalographic characteristics of the phasic nature of the course of severe cerebrocranial injury]. In order to early recognize intracranial hematomas and contusions, differential diagnostic criteria for analysis of neurological symptomatology and EEG signs are considered from the standpoint of a phasic clinical progress of traumatic pathological conditions of the brain. The EEG syndromes of initial, pronounced and gross synchronization correlated with the clinical phases of subcompensation, mild and deep decompensation. The study demonstrates a contrary trend in the dynamics of the clinical and EEG data in compression and contusion of the brain.", "PMID": 452786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10200", "title": "[Evaluation of the state of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system by cholinergic blood activity].", "content": "On the basis of the data obtained during a determination of the cholinergic blood activity in different physiological and pathological conditions of the organism it was possible to evaluate the state (tone and reactivity) of the parasympathetic part of the vegetative nervous system. The conducted studies demonstrate that the cholinergic blood activity depends upon the quantitative relationships between the separate components of the \"acetylcholine system\" which consists of the free acetylcholine content, bound erythrocytes, the activity of the acetylcholine esterase and the capability of blood in vitro to fixate the added acetylcholine. The pathogenetic therapy in the different forms of disturbed cholinergic blood activity (conditions of parasympathicotonia and parasympathicoatonia) should be directed to a restitution of normal relationships within the acetylcholine complex.", "contents": "[Evaluation of the state of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system by cholinergic blood activity]. On the basis of the data obtained during a determination of the cholinergic blood activity in different physiological and pathological conditions of the organism it was possible to evaluate the state (tone and reactivity) of the parasympathetic part of the vegetative nervous system. The conducted studies demonstrate that the cholinergic blood activity depends upon the quantitative relationships between the separate components of the \"acetylcholine system\" which consists of the free acetylcholine content, bound erythrocytes, the activity of the acetylcholine esterase and the capability of blood in vitro to fixate the added acetylcholine. The pathogenetic therapy in the different forms of disturbed cholinergic blood activity (conditions of parasympathicotonia and parasympathicoatonia) should be directed to a restitution of normal relationships within the acetylcholine complex.", "PMID": 452787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10201", "title": "[Verografin epidurography in the diagnosis of spinal and spondylogenic diseases].", "content": "In order to elaborate an epidurographic technique, the water-soluble contrast substance (verografin), oil solution of iodine, iodolipol and air were used in experimental studies on animals and in cadavers. The studies demonstrated that oil and gaslike contrast substances penetrate into the vein and create a threat of embolia formation. For epidurography the most acceptable are water-soluble contrast substances. The method of an ascending verografin epidurography was elaborated and used in clinical practice. Some indications and contraindications for epidurography are outlined. A group of 396 patients with osteochondrosis of the lumbar part of the spine was examined. The method allowed a topic diagnosis of the disc hernia not only along the spine, but in the cross-section of the motor segments (median, paramedian and lateral hernias). The studies make it possible to exclude a disc prolapse in a nonhernial form of osteochondrosis. In 32 patients with spinal tumors epidurography permitted to determine the initial growth of the tumor, its size and relation to the dura mater.", "contents": "[Verografin epidurography in the diagnosis of spinal and spondylogenic diseases]. In order to elaborate an epidurographic technique, the water-soluble contrast substance (verografin), oil solution of iodine, iodolipol and air were used in experimental studies on animals and in cadavers. The studies demonstrated that oil and gaslike contrast substances penetrate into the vein and create a threat of embolia formation. For epidurography the most acceptable are water-soluble contrast substances. The method of an ascending verografin epidurography was elaborated and used in clinical practice. Some indications and contraindications for epidurography are outlined. A group of 396 patients with osteochondrosis of the lumbar part of the spine was examined. The method allowed a topic diagnosis of the disc hernia not only along the spine, but in the cross-section of the motor segments (median, paramedian and lateral hernias). The studies make it possible to exclude a disc prolapse in a nonhernial form of osteochondrosis. In 32 patients with spinal tumors epidurography permitted to determine the initial growth of the tumor, its size and relation to the dura mater.", "PMID": 452788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10202", "title": "[Thermography in the diagnosis of spinal cord tumors].", "content": "Clinical studies of 22 patients with pathological processes in the spinal cord and vertebral column allowed a new method of diagnosing spinal tumors with the aid thermography on a Soviet thermovision \"Rubin\" set. According to the preliminary data this method facilitates the diagnosis and differentiation between tumors of the spinal cord. The paper contains thermograms of the back in normals and patients with extramedullar tumors of the spinal cord at the vertebral level D5--D6 and thermograms of the lower extremities in this pathological condition.", "contents": "[Thermography in the diagnosis of spinal cord tumors]. Clinical studies of 22 patients with pathological processes in the spinal cord and vertebral column allowed a new method of diagnosing spinal tumors with the aid thermography on a Soviet thermovision \"Rubin\" set. According to the preliminary data this method facilitates the diagnosis and differentiation between tumors of the spinal cord. The paper contains thermograms of the back in normals and patients with extramedullar tumors of the spinal cord at the vertebral level D5--D6 and thermograms of the lower extremities in this pathological condition.", "PMID": 452789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10203", "title": "[Clinical diagnosis of neurinomas of Gasser's ganglion].", "content": "The first symptoms of the disease encountered in 30 patients were paresthesia, constant dull headaches and a feeling of numbness of the face or its half. Eventually weakness, atrophia of the masticatory muscles, a drop or absence of the corneal reflexes and cerebral and focal symptoms super vened (the symptoms depended upon the direction of the neurinoma growth). Signs of hypertension were seen in 17 cases. There was also a protein-cell dissociation: 0.5--7% of protein in pleocytosis 6/3--68/3. The craniograms showed a destruction of the ground of the middle cranial cavity in 24 cases, while in 23 cases there was a destruction of the pyramidal apex. Antiographic studies demonstrated a displacement of the carotid siphon medially (18 cases), forward (8 cases) or behind (5 cases). The tumor vascular network was detected in 5 patients. The diagnosis of neurinomas of Gasser's node requires a comprehensive summarization of the clinical and x-ray findings.", "contents": "[Clinical diagnosis of neurinomas of Gasser's ganglion]. The first symptoms of the disease encountered in 30 patients were paresthesia, constant dull headaches and a feeling of numbness of the face or its half. Eventually weakness, atrophia of the masticatory muscles, a drop or absence of the corneal reflexes and cerebral and focal symptoms super vened (the symptoms depended upon the direction of the neurinoma growth). Signs of hypertension were seen in 17 cases. There was also a protein-cell dissociation: 0.5--7% of protein in pleocytosis 6/3--68/3. The craniograms showed a destruction of the ground of the middle cranial cavity in 24 cases, while in 23 cases there was a destruction of the pyramidal apex. Antiographic studies demonstrated a displacement of the carotid siphon medially (18 cases), forward (8 cases) or behind (5 cases). The tumor vascular network was detected in 5 patients. The diagnosis of neurinomas of Gasser's node requires a comprehensive summarization of the clinical and x-ray findings.", "PMID": 452790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10204", "title": "[Development of experimental peripheral nerve tumors in hormonal imbalance].", "content": "According to the data obtained by the authors, some modifying factors, and in particular artificial disorders of hormonal balance in rats, influence the realization of the blastomogenic effect of methylnitrosourea. The results of these studies indicate that the manifestation and the development of tumors in the peripheral nerves occurs more rapidly and easier in experimental hypothyrosis due to a daily administration of anti-thyroid drugs (merkazolyl) and an estrogenation of the organism of animals by a monthly subcutaneous suturation of sinestrol pills. In castration and administration of thyroid hormones (thyroidin) the amount of experimental neurogenic newgrowths decreases with an extension of the latent period of their development.", "contents": "[Development of experimental peripheral nerve tumors in hormonal imbalance]. According to the data obtained by the authors, some modifying factors, and in particular artificial disorders of hormonal balance in rats, influence the realization of the blastomogenic effect of methylnitrosourea. The results of these studies indicate that the manifestation and the development of tumors in the peripheral nerves occurs more rapidly and easier in experimental hypothyrosis due to a daily administration of anti-thyroid drugs (merkazolyl) and an estrogenation of the organism of animals by a monthly subcutaneous suturation of sinestrol pills. In castration and administration of thyroid hormones (thyroidin) the amount of experimental neurogenic newgrowths decreases with an extension of the latent period of their development.", "PMID": 452791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10205", "title": "[Kinin system components and immune complexes in schizophrenia].", "content": "The sera of schizophrenic patients showed existence of immune complexes and an increased activity of kallikrein, as well as relationship between these indices and the phase of the process. Their totality may be recommended for evaluating the activity of the process and efficacy of the treatment.", "contents": "[Kinin system components and immune complexes in schizophrenia]. The sera of schizophrenic patients showed existence of immune complexes and an increased activity of kallikrein, as well as relationship between these indices and the phase of the process. Their totality may be recommended for evaluating the activity of the process and efficacy of the treatment.", "PMID": 452792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10206", "title": "[EEG characteristics of the parents in relation to the form of the course of schizophrenia in the children].", "content": "The study is concerned with the traits of brain electroactivity in 35 parents (19 mothers and 16 fathers) whose children had attack-like schizophrenia and in 65 parents (36 mothers and 29 fathers) where the process in the children had a continuous course. The results of the study demonstrated certain differences in both groups according to the frequency in the cortical rhythms of some encephalographical signs and their interconnected combinations. The traits of the EEG, indicating the existence of a tendency to some changes in the functional state of the brain in parents correlated with the indices of their clinical state.", "contents": "[EEG characteristics of the parents in relation to the form of the course of schizophrenia in the children]. The study is concerned with the traits of brain electroactivity in 35 parents (19 mothers and 16 fathers) whose children had attack-like schizophrenia and in 65 parents (36 mothers and 29 fathers) where the process in the children had a continuous course. The results of the study demonstrated certain differences in both groups according to the frequency in the cortical rhythms of some encephalographical signs and their interconnected combinations. The traits of the EEG, indicating the existence of a tendency to some changes in the functional state of the brain in parents correlated with the indices of their clinical state.", "PMID": 452793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10207", "title": "[Possible systems approach to the study of circulatory system regulation in schizophrenia].", "content": "From the point of view of a systemic approach the model of schizophrenia is considered as a system of 2 substructures: clinico-psychopathological and vegetative-regulatory. Changes in the latter are shown by disturbances in the circulation control in orthostasis. Factor analysis of the respective indices in 70 cases of schizophrenia established a correlation between the factor of progression and the quality of palpitation frequency regulation. The character of correlations of these indices with the indices of regulation permits one to distinguish the forms of development in schizophrenia. Conclusions about a relationship between clinical and regulatory substructures in the model of schizophrenia are confirmed by a discriminant analysis of the respective data on 122 mental patients.", "contents": "[Possible systems approach to the study of circulatory system regulation in schizophrenia]. From the point of view of a systemic approach the model of schizophrenia is considered as a system of 2 substructures: clinico-psychopathological and vegetative-regulatory. Changes in the latter are shown by disturbances in the circulation control in orthostasis. Factor analysis of the respective indices in 70 cases of schizophrenia established a correlation between the factor of progression and the quality of palpitation frequency regulation. The character of correlations of these indices with the indices of regulation permits one to distinguish the forms of development in schizophrenia. Conclusions about a relationship between clinical and regulatory substructures in the model of schizophrenia are confirmed by a discriminant analysis of the respective data on 122 mental patients.", "PMID": 452794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10208", "title": "[Families of late delusional schizophrenia patients].", "content": "Families of 44 schizophrenic probands with an onset over 45 years of age, were studied. Among the secondary psychoses, typical schizophrenical psychoses, with an onset in young and middle age were prevalent, no affective psychoses being revealed. The risk for schizophrenia in the parents and sibs was lower than in the families of schizophrenic patients with an onset in young age. However, the risk of morbidity in the relatives of first degree was higher than the incidence of schizophrenia in the population. The general familial background corresponded to the familial background of schizophrenic patients described in the literature. The question of genetical bonds with late delusional schizophrenia and schizophrenia in general is discussed.", "contents": "[Families of late delusional schizophrenia patients]. Families of 44 schizophrenic probands with an onset over 45 years of age, were studied. Among the secondary psychoses, typical schizophrenical psychoses, with an onset in young and middle age were prevalent, no affective psychoses being revealed. The risk for schizophrenia in the parents and sibs was lower than in the families of schizophrenic patients with an onset in young age. However, the risk of morbidity in the relatives of first degree was higher than the incidence of schizophrenia in the population. The general familial background corresponded to the familial background of schizophrenic patients described in the literature. The question of genetical bonds with late delusional schizophrenia and schizophrenia in general is discussed.", "PMID": 452795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10209", "title": "[Characteristics of the development of juvenile schizophrenia in view of the late catamnesis].", "content": "By means of a clinico-follow-up method the author studied 751 schizophrenic patients with the onset of the disease in adolescence and a catamnesis more than 10 years. It was established that in 96.5% of the cases the diagnostic evaluation made in inpatient conditions was correct. A comparison of the assessment of forms in the development of schizophrenia during the first examination and during follow-up study demonstrated that in most of the cases the first determination of the form of the development on the initial stages of the disease in adolescence was justified, but the frequency of correct initial assessment of the forms of development was different in various clinical states. Despite the formed opinion concerning the prevalent unfavourable outcome of schizophrenia with the onset in adolescence, on the remote stages there was a high percentage of patients under outpatient observation (80.7%), and those working at an ordinary production (40%). In many cases (49.6%) there was a frequent alleviation of the process activity on remote stages and formation of remission.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the development of juvenile schizophrenia in view of the late catamnesis]. By means of a clinico-follow-up method the author studied 751 schizophrenic patients with the onset of the disease in adolescence and a catamnesis more than 10 years. It was established that in 96.5% of the cases the diagnostic evaluation made in inpatient conditions was correct. A comparison of the assessment of forms in the development of schizophrenia during the first examination and during follow-up study demonstrated that in most of the cases the first determination of the form of the development on the initial stages of the disease in adolescence was justified, but the frequency of correct initial assessment of the forms of development was different in various clinical states. Despite the formed opinion concerning the prevalent unfavourable outcome of schizophrenia with the onset in adolescence, on the remote stages there was a high percentage of patients under outpatient observation (80.7%), and those working at an ordinary production (40%). In many cases (49.6%) there was a frequent alleviation of the process activity on remote stages and formation of remission.", "PMID": 452796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10210", "title": "[Role of sex and age in the occurrence and course of attack-like schizophrenia (based on epidemiological study data)].", "content": "On the basis of an over-all investigation of 2 districts of Moscow (1548 patients) the authors studied correlations between clinical traits of attack-like schizophrenia and factors of sex and age. It was demonstrated that the disease most frequently (irrespective of the sex and duration) manifests itself by affective-delusional attacks, then go depressive states, acute-delusional oneiroid and manic attacks. The statistical processing of these results demonstrates the existence of a common regularity in the development of clinical traits of attack-like schizophrenia. Factors of sex and age contribute only to conditions of a predilectiveness in an occurrence of different syndromes.", "contents": "[Role of sex and age in the occurrence and course of attack-like schizophrenia (based on epidemiological study data)]. On the basis of an over-all investigation of 2 districts of Moscow (1548 patients) the authors studied correlations between clinical traits of attack-like schizophrenia and factors of sex and age. It was demonstrated that the disease most frequently (irrespective of the sex and duration) manifests itself by affective-delusional attacks, then go depressive states, acute-delusional oneiroid and manic attacks. The statistical processing of these results demonstrates the existence of a common regularity in the development of clinical traits of attack-like schizophrenia. Factors of sex and age contribute only to conditions of a predilectiveness in an occurrence of different syndromes.", "PMID": 452797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10211", "title": "Plasma clearance of cortisol as a function of plasma cortisol levels in normal and obese persons and in patients with uraemia or cirrhosis of the liver.", "content": "Plasma cortisol levels in 2 normal persons, 2 obese persons, 2 uraemic patients, and 2 patients with cirrhosis of the liver were raised in 4 steps by a combination of iv priming doses and continuous infusions of cortisol. Plasma cortisol levels and transcortin binding were measured as well as plasma clearance rates of labelled and unlabelled cortisol during each of the 5 experimental periods. Plasma cortisol levels increased less and plasma clearance rates of labelled and unlabelled cortisol increased more in obese persons than in normal persons; in patients with disturbed metabolism of cortisol (uraemia, cirrhosis of the liver) the reverse is true. Plasma clearance rates of free cortisol were calculated and differed from an estimated hepatic plasma flow of 0.7 1/min under certain conditions. Since free cortisol is metabolized faster than transcortin-bound cortisol, increasing plasma clearance rates of cortisol are probably due to increasing ratios free/bound cortisol when total plasma cortisol levels are raised. Low plasma clearance rates of cortisol in uraemia and cirrhosis of the liver are thought to be due to endproduct inhibition, respectively reduced liver cell mass.", "contents": "Plasma clearance of cortisol as a function of plasma cortisol levels in normal and obese persons and in patients with uraemia or cirrhosis of the liver. Plasma cortisol levels in 2 normal persons, 2 obese persons, 2 uraemic patients, and 2 patients with cirrhosis of the liver were raised in 4 steps by a combination of iv priming doses and continuous infusions of cortisol. Plasma cortisol levels and transcortin binding were measured as well as plasma clearance rates of labelled and unlabelled cortisol during each of the 5 experimental periods. Plasma cortisol levels increased less and plasma clearance rates of labelled and unlabelled cortisol increased more in obese persons than in normal persons; in patients with disturbed metabolism of cortisol (uraemia, cirrhosis of the liver) the reverse is true. Plasma clearance rates of free cortisol were calculated and differed from an estimated hepatic plasma flow of 0.7 1/min under certain conditions. Since free cortisol is metabolized faster than transcortin-bound cortisol, increasing plasma clearance rates of cortisol are probably due to increasing ratios free/bound cortisol when total plasma cortisol levels are raised. Low plasma clearance rates of cortisol in uraemia and cirrhosis of the liver are thought to be due to endproduct inhibition, respectively reduced liver cell mass.", "PMID": 452824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10212", "title": "Metabolic and endocrine responses to a standard mixed meal. A physiologic study.", "content": "In order to study endocrine and metabolic responses to normal food ingestion, 8 'healthy' subjects received a standard mixed meal which reflected the composition of Western diet (CHO 47%, protein 23%, fat 26%, alcohol 4%), in 20 min. Before and after the meal, in each subject glucose, lactate, FFA, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon and HGH were determined. The results showed that glycemic and insulinemic responses were not very different from those observed after the classical oral glucose tolerance test. Plasma FFA and blood lactate decreased progressively after the meal. Plasma glucagon and HGH showed opposite changes: pancreatic glucagon rose and HGH slightly declined after composite food ingestion.", "contents": "Metabolic and endocrine responses to a standard mixed meal. A physiologic study. In order to study endocrine and metabolic responses to normal food ingestion, 8 'healthy' subjects received a standard mixed meal which reflected the composition of Western diet (CHO 47%, protein 23%, fat 26%, alcohol 4%), in 20 min. Before and after the meal, in each subject glucose, lactate, FFA, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon and HGH were determined. The results showed that glycemic and insulinemic responses were not very different from those observed after the classical oral glucose tolerance test. Plasma FFA and blood lactate decreased progressively after the meal. Plasma glucagon and HGH showed opposite changes: pancreatic glucagon rose and HGH slightly declined after composite food ingestion.", "PMID": 452819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10213", "title": "Circadian rhythms of plasma corticosterone binding activity in the rat and the mouse.", "content": "Corticosterone binding activity (CBA) and corticosteroids were measured by competitive protein binding techniques in plasma samples drawn from rats and mice at different times of day. Circacian rhythms of plasma CBA were found in both rats (onset of 14-h daily photoperiod: 0600) and mice (onset of 14-h daily photoperiod: 0700). The plasma CBA rhythm was bimodal in rats with peaks at 1000 and 1800 and unimodal in mice with peak level from 0100 to 0500. Circadian rhythms of plasma corticosteroid concentration with peaks during the late afternoon were confirmed in both rats and mice. The plasma CBA rhythms appear to be related to the circadian rhythms of both locomotor activity and plasma corticosteroid concentration.", "contents": "Circadian rhythms of plasma corticosterone binding activity in the rat and the mouse. Corticosterone binding activity (CBA) and corticosteroids were measured by competitive protein binding techniques in plasma samples drawn from rats and mice at different times of day. Circacian rhythms of plasma CBA were found in both rats (onset of 14-h daily photoperiod: 0600) and mice (onset of 14-h daily photoperiod: 0700). The plasma CBA rhythm was bimodal in rats with peaks at 1000 and 1800 and unimodal in mice with peak level from 0100 to 0500. Circadian rhythms of plasma corticosteroid concentration with peaks during the late afternoon were confirmed in both rats and mice. The plasma CBA rhythms appear to be related to the circadian rhythms of both locomotor activity and plasma corticosteroid concentration.", "PMID": 452825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10214", "title": "Radioimmunoassay for 2-methoxyoestrone in human plasma.", "content": "A bovine serum albumin conjugate of 2-methoxyoestrone was used for the preparation of highly specific antibodies in rabbits. Cross-reactivity for catecholoestrogens and monophenolic steroids was below 0.3%. Only 2-methoxyoestradiol cross-reacted with 44%. An assay procedure for the determination of unconjugated and conjugated 2-methoxyoestrone in human plasma is described. The following mean plasma concentrations (pg/ml) were found (unconjugated/conjugated): children 61/1130, young men 74/1320, elderly men 109/1260, cycling women 131/1040, post-menopausal women 102/1420, and pregnant women 3980/5850.", "contents": "Radioimmunoassay for 2-methoxyoestrone in human plasma. A bovine serum albumin conjugate of 2-methoxyoestrone was used for the preparation of highly specific antibodies in rabbits. Cross-reactivity for catecholoestrogens and monophenolic steroids was below 0.3%. Only 2-methoxyoestradiol cross-reacted with 44%. An assay procedure for the determination of unconjugated and conjugated 2-methoxyoestrone in human plasma is described. The following mean plasma concentrations (pg/ml) were found (unconjugated/conjugated): children 61/1130, young men 74/1320, elderly men 109/1260, cycling women 131/1040, post-menopausal women 102/1420, and pregnant women 3980/5850.", "PMID": 452826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10215", "title": "Transducer probe for the measurement of oestradiol-induced changes in the vagina of ovariectomized ewes.", "content": "A modified non-invasive vaginal probe, using electronic transducers to monitor six physical variables reflecting vaginal changes, was tested in oophorectomized ewes according to a Latin-Square design allocating six treatments to six animals in a balanced time sequence. The transducers measured thermal conductance, temperature near the cervix and near the vulva, and light reflectance at 900, 660, and 565 nm. The treatments included four iv doses of oestradiol-17 beta (0.5, 5.0, 50, and 500 microgram per 50 kg body weight) and two controls (injection vehicle, and no injection). Despite large residual variation, the results (1) show that the higher oestradiol doses produced responses of all six variables; (2) suggest improvements in future probe design; and (3) raise interesting questions on dose-response relationships deserving further study.", "contents": "Transducer probe for the measurement of oestradiol-induced changes in the vagina of ovariectomized ewes. A modified non-invasive vaginal probe, using electronic transducers to monitor six physical variables reflecting vaginal changes, was tested in oophorectomized ewes according to a Latin-Square design allocating six treatments to six animals in a balanced time sequence. The transducers measured thermal conductance, temperature near the cervix and near the vulva, and light reflectance at 900, 660, and 565 nm. The treatments included four iv doses of oestradiol-17 beta (0.5, 5.0, 50, and 500 microgram per 50 kg body weight) and two controls (injection vehicle, and no injection). Despite large residual variation, the results (1) show that the higher oestradiol doses produced responses of all six variables; (2) suggest improvements in future probe design; and (3) raise interesting questions on dose-response relationships deserving further study.", "PMID": 452827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10216", "title": "Relationship between body fat mass, carbohydrate tolerance and IRI response during glucose infusion in subjects with early diabetes.", "content": "We have studied the interrelationship of total body fat mass, carbohydrate tolerance and IRI response in 17 non-obese and obese subjects, who were suspected of having early diabetes. We carried out an i.v. glucose infusion test consisting of a priming injection of 0.33 g/kg followed by constant glucose infusion of 12 mg/kg/min in all persons. Total body fat mass was estimated by the tritium dilution method. There was a positive correlation of body fat mass, fasting glucose concentration and blood glucose concentration at 150 min as well as a strong correlation between body fat mass and BG area 60--120 min as parameters of carbohydrate tolerance in all subjects, i.e. the degree of carbohyrate intolerance was directly related to the quantity of total body fat mass. A similar correlation was found when the non-obese and obese groups were analyzed separately. In neither group did total body fat mass correlate with parameters of IRI response. In obese subjects with pathological carbohydrate tolerance, however, a positive correlation of basal IRI concentration and total body fat mass was found. Furthermore, a close relation between basal IRI level and parameters of carbohydrate tolerance could be demonstrated in obese subjects. The present study failed to demonstrate any correlation of parameters of carbohydrate tolerance and glucose-induced IRI response in either group. Thus, the significant relationship between body fat mass and degree of carbohydrate intolerance indicates that body fat mass plays an important role in the disturbance of blood glucose homeostasis in early diabetes with and without obesity.", "contents": "Relationship between body fat mass, carbohydrate tolerance and IRI response during glucose infusion in subjects with early diabetes. We have studied the interrelationship of total body fat mass, carbohydrate tolerance and IRI response in 17 non-obese and obese subjects, who were suspected of having early diabetes. We carried out an i.v. glucose infusion test consisting of a priming injection of 0.33 g/kg followed by constant glucose infusion of 12 mg/kg/min in all persons. Total body fat mass was estimated by the tritium dilution method. There was a positive correlation of body fat mass, fasting glucose concentration and blood glucose concentration at 150 min as well as a strong correlation between body fat mass and BG area 60--120 min as parameters of carbohydrate tolerance in all subjects, i.e. the degree of carbohyrate intolerance was directly related to the quantity of total body fat mass. A similar correlation was found when the non-obese and obese groups were analyzed separately. In neither group did total body fat mass correlate with parameters of IRI response. In obese subjects with pathological carbohydrate tolerance, however, a positive correlation of basal IRI concentration and total body fat mass was found. Furthermore, a close relation between basal IRI level and parameters of carbohydrate tolerance could be demonstrated in obese subjects. The present study failed to demonstrate any correlation of parameters of carbohydrate tolerance and glucose-induced IRI response in either group. Thus, the significant relationship between body fat mass and degree of carbohydrate intolerance indicates that body fat mass plays an important role in the disturbance of blood glucose homeostasis in early diabetes with and without obesity.", "PMID": 452821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10217", "title": "Investigation of bone and mineral metabolism in hyperthyroidism before and after treatment using calcitonin, 47Ca and balance studies.", "content": "Seventeen normocalcaemic patients with severe hyperthyroidism were examined before therapy was initiated; 9 were re-examined about 1 year later. Studies with 47Ca under balance conditions and with calcitonin demonstrated a high rate of bone resorption in untreated patients. As a result of the increased bone turnover, the reaction to 6 MRC units of porcine calcitonin iv was more marked in the untreated than in the treated patients or the control group. In contrast to the normal diurnal pattern for PO4, it was found that during fasting the plasma PO4 level increases in the morning in patients with hyperthyroidism. This increase which was not suppressed by the administered dose of calcitonin developed in spite of an elevated urinary PO4 excretion. After treatment, the serum Ca concentration as well as the urinary and faecal Ca excretion was decreased. The Ca balance improved; the rapidly-exchangeable Ca pool returned to normal. The slowly-exchangeable and the total Ca pools, however, remained enlarged. The rate of bone resorption normalized. The accretion rate on the other hand remained elevated. This is atributed to continued enhancement of bone formation to compensate for the previous loss of bony tissue.", "contents": "Investigation of bone and mineral metabolism in hyperthyroidism before and after treatment using calcitonin, 47Ca and balance studies. Seventeen normocalcaemic patients with severe hyperthyroidism were examined before therapy was initiated; 9 were re-examined about 1 year later. Studies with 47Ca under balance conditions and with calcitonin demonstrated a high rate of bone resorption in untreated patients. As a result of the increased bone turnover, the reaction to 6 MRC units of porcine calcitonin iv was more marked in the untreated than in the treated patients or the control group. In contrast to the normal diurnal pattern for PO4, it was found that during fasting the plasma PO4 level increases in the morning in patients with hyperthyroidism. This increase which was not suppressed by the administered dose of calcitonin developed in spite of an elevated urinary PO4 excretion. After treatment, the serum Ca concentration as well as the urinary and faecal Ca excretion was decreased. The Ca balance improved; the rapidly-exchangeable Ca pool returned to normal. The slowly-exchangeable and the total Ca pools, however, remained enlarged. The rate of bone resorption normalized. The accretion rate on the other hand remained elevated. This is atributed to continued enhancement of bone formation to compensate for the previous loss of bony tissue.", "PMID": 452828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10218", "title": "A comparative study of metabolic and hormonal responses to somatostatin and propranolol in man.", "content": "The aim of this study was to compare the metabolic and hormonal effects of somatostatin to those of propranolol, a beta-adrenergic blocking agent known to reduce basal insulin secretion. For this purpose, 6 normal subjects received somatostatin (4 microgram/min) per 60 min and 6 subjects were infused with propranolol (0.08 mg/min). Somatostatin resulted in a significant decrease of basal insulin (p less than 0.05) and glucagon (p less than 0.01) and raised plasma FFA levels from a mean basal value of 417 +/- 24 muEq/1 (x +/- SEM) to 600 +/- 46 muEq/1 at 60 min (p less than 0.01). Propranolol significantly decreased basal insulin (p less than 0.05) and glucagon (p less than 0.05); FFA levels rose slightly at the end of propranolol administration (p less than 0.05). The levels of FFA which were significantly higher (p less than 0.025) during somatostatin as compared to those observed during propranolol, seem to suggest a role for this tetradecapeptide in lipid metabolism independent of its inhibiting action on islet hormone release.", "contents": "A comparative study of metabolic and hormonal responses to somatostatin and propranolol in man. The aim of this study was to compare the metabolic and hormonal effects of somatostatin to those of propranolol, a beta-adrenergic blocking agent known to reduce basal insulin secretion. For this purpose, 6 normal subjects received somatostatin (4 microgram/min) per 60 min and 6 subjects were infused with propranolol (0.08 mg/min). Somatostatin resulted in a significant decrease of basal insulin (p less than 0.05) and glucagon (p less than 0.01) and raised plasma FFA levels from a mean basal value of 417 +/- 24 muEq/1 (x +/- SEM) to 600 +/- 46 muEq/1 at 60 min (p less than 0.01). Propranolol significantly decreased basal insulin (p less than 0.05) and glucagon (p less than 0.05); FFA levels rose slightly at the end of propranolol administration (p less than 0.05). The levels of FFA which were significantly higher (p less than 0.025) during somatostatin as compared to those observed during propranolol, seem to suggest a role for this tetradecapeptide in lipid metabolism independent of its inhibiting action on islet hormone release.", "PMID": 452822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10219", "title": "Diabetic changes of the extra-ocular muscles in man.", "content": "Axonal and myelin changes of the degenerative type were found in the extra-ocular muscles of 21 out of 23 diabetics of all ages (30--74 years). In all these 21 cases both axonal and myelin changes were observed; they did not correlate with the duration, degree of severity or treatment of diabetes. In 19 of the 23 cases (82.6%) nervous changes were accompanied by vascular changes. In 10 controls (50--80 years) nervous and vascular changes were of a slight degree. The findings of the alteration of peripheral nerve endings in the extra-ocular muscle corroborate and complete the description of the central nervous changes in diabetics with ophthalmoplegia given by several authors. We agree with Dom\u00ednguez et al. that ophthalmoplegia may appear in the preclinical stage of diabetes and may be the first manifestation of the disease.", "contents": "Diabetic changes of the extra-ocular muscles in man. Axonal and myelin changes of the degenerative type were found in the extra-ocular muscles of 21 out of 23 diabetics of all ages (30--74 years). In all these 21 cases both axonal and myelin changes were observed; they did not correlate with the duration, degree of severity or treatment of diabetes. In 19 of the 23 cases (82.6%) nervous changes were accompanied by vascular changes. In 10 controls (50--80 years) nervous and vascular changes were of a slight degree. The findings of the alteration of peripheral nerve endings in the extra-ocular muscle corroborate and complete the description of the central nervous changes in diabetics with ophthalmoplegia given by several authors. We agree with Dom\u00ednguez et al. that ophthalmoplegia may appear in the preclinical stage of diabetes and may be the first manifestation of the disease.", "PMID": 452820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10220", "title": "Metabolic and hormonal changes during exercise in healthy, diabetic and obese subjects.", "content": "The metabolic and hormonal changes during a standard physical exercise were studied in healthy subjects and in insulin-dependent diabetics well matched for body weight, and therefore submitted to a similar work load in a physiologic range, and in obese subjects that, owing to their weight, faced a significant heavier work in the same environmental conditions. Moderate work load did not lead to significant changes in metabolic and hormonal blood parameters (blood glucose, FFA and glycerol; insulin, glucagon, growth hormone and cortisol) in healthy subjects. A similar substrate homeostatis was seen in insulin-dependent diabetics, that however showed marked hormonal alterations. In these subjects, indeed, higher levels of plasma glucagon and GH were reached during work and in the recovery phase. Obese subjects, submitted to a heavier work load, presented a marked increase in blood glucose and glycerol which agrees with high GH and cortisol levels, and a subsequent increment of IRI which corresponds to a normalization of blood glucose and glycerol. Obese subjects, therefore, show a normal sensitivity to work load. Considerations about the work load in everyday life are discussed.", "contents": "Metabolic and hormonal changes during exercise in healthy, diabetic and obese subjects. The metabolic and hormonal changes during a standard physical exercise were studied in healthy subjects and in insulin-dependent diabetics well matched for body weight, and therefore submitted to a similar work load in a physiologic range, and in obese subjects that, owing to their weight, faced a significant heavier work in the same environmental conditions. Moderate work load did not lead to significant changes in metabolic and hormonal blood parameters (blood glucose, FFA and glycerol; insulin, glucagon, growth hormone and cortisol) in healthy subjects. A similar substrate homeostatis was seen in insulin-dependent diabetics, that however showed marked hormonal alterations. In these subjects, indeed, higher levels of plasma glucagon and GH were reached during work and in the recovery phase. Obese subjects, submitted to a heavier work load, presented a marked increase in blood glucose and glycerol which agrees with high GH and cortisol levels, and a subsequent increment of IRI which corresponds to a normalization of blood glucose and glycerol. Obese subjects, therefore, show a normal sensitivity to work load. Considerations about the work load in everyday life are discussed.", "PMID": 452817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10221", "title": "Effects of food restriction on mice with the hereditary obese-hyperglycemic syndrome.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to compare the organ weights of obese-hyperglycemic (ob/ob) mice with the organ weights of their normal litter-mates. The absolute weights of the epididymal fat pads (white fat), interscapular fat pads (brown fat) and liver were greater in ob/ob mice than in normal mice. The weights of the kidneys and heart were similar in the 2 groups. The weights of the brain and testes were decreased in ob/ob mice when compared with normal mice. The weight gain of a second group of ob/ob mice was decreased by chronic food restriction resulting in a 26% reduction in weight when compared with ob/ob mice having unrestricted access to food. This substantially reduced the weight of the liver, but resulted in a minimal reduction in the weight of the epididymal fat pad. Food restriction did not alter the weight of the interscapular fat pads. It caused a relative reduction in kidney weight and a further absolute and relative reduction in testis weight.", "contents": "Effects of food restriction on mice with the hereditary obese-hyperglycemic syndrome. The purpose of this study was to compare the organ weights of obese-hyperglycemic (ob/ob) mice with the organ weights of their normal litter-mates. The absolute weights of the epididymal fat pads (white fat), interscapular fat pads (brown fat) and liver were greater in ob/ob mice than in normal mice. The weights of the kidneys and heart were similar in the 2 groups. The weights of the brain and testes were decreased in ob/ob mice when compared with normal mice. The weight gain of a second group of ob/ob mice was decreased by chronic food restriction resulting in a 26% reduction in weight when compared with ob/ob mice having unrestricted access to food. This substantially reduced the weight of the liver, but resulted in a minimal reduction in the weight of the epididymal fat pad. Food restriction did not alter the weight of the interscapular fat pads. It caused a relative reduction in kidney weight and a further absolute and relative reduction in testis weight.", "PMID": 452818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10222", "title": "Arterial thrombosis of the arm in infant of diabetic mother.", "content": "A case of multiple arterial thromboses of the arm in the infant of a diabetic mother is reported. A hemocoagulative pattern of intravascular disseminated coagulation was present. Conservative thrombolytic treatment with Urokinase and Calciparin proved successful.", "contents": "Arterial thrombosis of the arm in infant of diabetic mother. A case of multiple arterial thromboses of the arm in the infant of a diabetic mother is reported. A hemocoagulative pattern of intravascular disseminated coagulation was present. Conservative thrombolytic treatment with Urokinase and Calciparin proved successful.", "PMID": 452823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10223", "title": "Tuberculous meningitis.", "content": "Ten patients with confirmed tuberculous meningitis were seen at Meilahti Hospital, University of Helsinki, in 1966--1977. Six of the patients had a positive CSF culture for M. tuberculosis, and a positive CSF smear for acid-fast bacilli was found in one case. On admission, seven patients had an altered state of consciousness, five complained of headache, and nuchal rigidity was noted in two. Five patients recovered completely, three had persistent late sequelae, and two of the patients died. The most important fact influencing the prognosis was an early institution of adequate antituberculous chemotherapy.", "contents": "Tuberculous meningitis. Ten patients with confirmed tuberculous meningitis were seen at Meilahti Hospital, University of Helsinki, in 1966--1977. Six of the patients had a positive CSF culture for M. tuberculosis, and a positive CSF smear for acid-fast bacilli was found in one case. On admission, seven patients had an altered state of consciousness, five complained of headache, and nuchal rigidity was noted in two. Five patients recovered completely, three had persistent late sequelae, and two of the patients died. The most important fact influencing the prognosis was an early institution of adequate antituberculous chemotherapy.", "PMID": 452836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10224", "title": "Pancreatic encephalopathy.", "content": "A prospective study was conducted on 17 cases of acute pancreatitis; encephalopathy was discovered in six patients (35%). The following parameters were studied: the usual ones in pancreatitis conditions (amylasemia, lipasemia, amylasuria, ions, glucose, pO2, pCO2, pH, etc.), and electroencephalographic changes and determinations in CSF of cells, proteins, lipase, amylase, lipides and cholesterol. A direct relationship was found to exist between the pancreatic encephalopahy condition and an increase in CSF-lipase. The electroencephalographic changes were nonspecific. The encephalopathy did not affect the course of the pancreatitis condition, and showed no relationship to type of treatment involved. The severity of the pancreatitis was not related to the presence or absence of encephalopathy.", "contents": "Pancreatic encephalopathy. A prospective study was conducted on 17 cases of acute pancreatitis; encephalopathy was discovered in six patients (35%). The following parameters were studied: the usual ones in pancreatitis conditions (amylasemia, lipasemia, amylasuria, ions, glucose, pO2, pCO2, pH, etc.), and electroencephalographic changes and determinations in CSF of cells, proteins, lipase, amylase, lipides and cholesterol. A direct relationship was found to exist between the pancreatic encephalopahy condition and an increase in CSF-lipase. The electroencephalographic changes were nonspecific. The encephalopathy did not affect the course of the pancreatitis condition, and showed no relationship to type of treatment involved. The severity of the pancreatitis was not related to the presence or absence of encephalopathy.", "PMID": 452837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10225", "title": "Possible increased tendency to thrombosis after cerebral angiography.", "content": "Two patients are presented in whom cerebral angiography was complicated by bioccipital infarcts resulting in cortical blindness with persisting severe restriction of the visual field (case 1) and persisting cortical blindness (case 2). One patient (case 1) demonstrated a compensated, protracted disseminated intravascular coagulation (Table 1), which disappeared after treatment with phenprocoumon (Marcoumar). The other patient (case 2) demonstrated increasee spontaneous platelet aggregability (Table 2), which was treated sucessfully with acetylsalicylic acid (Magnyl) and dipyridamole (Persantine). We presume that the coagulation disturbances demonstrated after the angiography may be pathogenetic to the complications. We propose that patients with transient cerebral ischemia and apoplexy who are undergoing cerebral angiography should be studied with regard to coagulation before and after the cerebral angiography so that coagulation disturbances demonstrated may be treated before, or corrected after the angiography.", "contents": "Possible increased tendency to thrombosis after cerebral angiography. Two patients are presented in whom cerebral angiography was complicated by bioccipital infarcts resulting in cortical blindness with persisting severe restriction of the visual field (case 1) and persisting cortical blindness (case 2). One patient (case 1) demonstrated a compensated, protracted disseminated intravascular coagulation (Table 1), which disappeared after treatment with phenprocoumon (Marcoumar). The other patient (case 2) demonstrated increasee spontaneous platelet aggregability (Table 2), which was treated sucessfully with acetylsalicylic acid (Magnyl) and dipyridamole (Persantine). We presume that the coagulation disturbances demonstrated after the angiography may be pathogenetic to the complications. We propose that patients with transient cerebral ischemia and apoplexy who are undergoing cerebral angiography should be studied with regard to coagulation before and after the cerebral angiography so that coagulation disturbances demonstrated may be treated before, or corrected after the angiography.", "PMID": 452838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10226", "title": "No elevated sister chromatid exchange in Alzheimer's disease.", "content": "Chromosomal abnormalities have been reported earlier in Alzheimer-type dementia. Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) was studied in four patients with Alzheimer's disease and five control subjects. The sensitive method to detect chromosomal damage showed no elevated number of SCEs in Alzheimer's disease.", "contents": "No elevated sister chromatid exchange in Alzheimer's disease. Chromosomal abnormalities have been reported earlier in Alzheimer-type dementia. Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) was studied in four patients with Alzheimer's disease and five control subjects. The sensitive method to detect chromosomal damage showed no elevated number of SCEs in Alzheimer's disease.", "PMID": 452839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10227", "title": "The enhancing effect of multiple sclerosis brain homogenates on the active E-rosette forming lymphocytes in neurological disorders.", "content": "Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 23 out of 27 (85%) patients with multiple sclerosis responded to MS brain homogenates by increased formation of active E-rosettes. Lymphocytes from only six out of 78 (8%) patients with other neurological diseases responded to MS brain homogenates. The possible value of the test in the diagnosis of MS is discussed.", "contents": "The enhancing effect of multiple sclerosis brain homogenates on the active E-rosette forming lymphocytes in neurological disorders. Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 23 out of 27 (85%) patients with multiple sclerosis responded to MS brain homogenates by increased formation of active E-rosettes. Lymphocytes from only six out of 78 (8%) patients with other neurological diseases responded to MS brain homogenates. The possible value of the test in the diagnosis of MS is discussed.", "PMID": 452840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10228", "title": "Serum phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, albumin; and plasma estradiol, progesterone concentrations during the menstrual cycle in women with epilepsy.", "content": "Six menstrual cycles and three 1-month periods were studied in seven patients with epilepsy. The patients all had had anti-epileptic treatment for a long time. In each case, the dosages had been costant for at least 1 month prior to the start of the investigation. Blood samples were taken every second day. Phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, estradiol and pregesterone were analyzed. The serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs were correlated to the plasma hormone concentrations. No correlations were obtained between the plasma hormone concentrations and the serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs. There is, therefore, no evidence that the relationship between the seizure frequency and plasma hormone concentrations, shown in a previous study (B\u00e4ckstr\u00f6m 1976)) was related to a change in serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs.", "contents": "Serum phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, albumin; and plasma estradiol, progesterone concentrations during the menstrual cycle in women with epilepsy. Six menstrual cycles and three 1-month periods were studied in seven patients with epilepsy. The patients all had had anti-epileptic treatment for a long time. In each case, the dosages had been costant for at least 1 month prior to the start of the investigation. Blood samples were taken every second day. Phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, estradiol and pregesterone were analyzed. The serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs were correlated to the plasma hormone concentrations. No correlations were obtained between the plasma hormone concentrations and the serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs. There is, therefore, no evidence that the relationship between the seizure frequency and plasma hormone concentrations, shown in a previous study (B\u00e4ckstr\u00f6m 1976)) was related to a change in serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs.", "PMID": 452841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10229", "title": "Differences of latencies and amplitudes of brain stem evoked potentials in subgroups of a normal material.", "content": "Brain stem auditory evoked potentials have been recorded in 40 normal subjects aged 13--48 years, by stimulating monaurally with random stimulus interval. The male subjects have latencies of the waves III-VII, which are significantly longer than female subjects (P less than 0.0005), the elongation increasing from 0.09 to 0.44 msec from wave III to VII. The female subjects have amplitudes significantly higher than male subjects, although the variations are very wide. No difference in latencies from tall versus short subjects is found, as well as no significant difference in latencies between subgroups of older and younger subjects of the material. It is found necessary to have different normal values for the two sexes.", "contents": "Differences of latencies and amplitudes of brain stem evoked potentials in subgroups of a normal material. Brain stem auditory evoked potentials have been recorded in 40 normal subjects aged 13--48 years, by stimulating monaurally with random stimulus interval. The male subjects have latencies of the waves III-VII, which are significantly longer than female subjects (P less than 0.0005), the elongation increasing from 0.09 to 0.44 msec from wave III to VII. The female subjects have amplitudes significantly higher than male subjects, although the variations are very wide. No difference in latencies from tall versus short subjects is found, as well as no significant difference in latencies between subgroups of older and younger subjects of the material. It is found necessary to have different normal values for the two sexes.", "PMID": 452842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10230", "title": "Changing epidemiology of Parkinson's disease: predicted effects of levodopa treatment.", "content": "Recent studies suggest that levodopa treatment reduces the excess mortality due to Parkinson's disease, found to be three times that expected in the general population. This will affect the equilibrium state of the epidemiology of Parkinson's disease. The predicted increase in prevalence of Parkinson's disease was calculated according to two mortality patterns, one the same as expected in the general population and the other 1.5 times that expected; the proportional increase in prevalence is 1.8 and 1.4, respectively. The predicted increase in the duration of the disease if 6.3 or 3.2 years. As a consequence, there will be an increase of patients with long-term levodopa treatment difficulties, and with Parkinson's disease symptoms not treatable with levodopa, e.g. dementia. This seriously warrants the research of new approaches in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.", "contents": "Changing epidemiology of Parkinson's disease: predicted effects of levodopa treatment. Recent studies suggest that levodopa treatment reduces the excess mortality due to Parkinson's disease, found to be three times that expected in the general population. This will affect the equilibrium state of the epidemiology of Parkinson's disease. The predicted increase in prevalence of Parkinson's disease was calculated according to two mortality patterns, one the same as expected in the general population and the other 1.5 times that expected; the proportional increase in prevalence is 1.8 and 1.4, respectively. The predicted increase in the duration of the disease if 6.3 or 3.2 years. As a consequence, there will be an increase of patients with long-term levodopa treatment difficulties, and with Parkinson's disease symptoms not treatable with levodopa, e.g. dementia. This seriously warrants the research of new approaches in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.", "PMID": 452843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10231", "title": "Auditory double click evoked potentials in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Brain stem electric responses (BSER), evoked by acoustic stimuli, were investigated in 29 patients with multiple sclerosis and compared with the responses in a control group of 26 young adults without neurological disease or hearing defect. The procedure included monaural and binaural stimulus presentation of single clicks and pairs of clicks. In the evaluations the vertex-positive Jewett I, III and V response components, and the vertex-negative \"FFP7\" peak were considered. In the assessment of the BSER components, the FFP7 (the vertex-negative 7 ms far field potential following the JewettV wave) proved to be the best single component with respect to reproducibility in normal subjects. In addition the FFP7 was the single most consistently abnormal component in the patient group. Determination of the latency of the Jewett components and the interpeak conduction times, however, contributed further to the disclosure of the abnormal cases. Five of the patients whose hearing was impaired were considered separately. Of the remaining 24 patients, 20 (83%) had BSER abnormalities. Further analysis did not reveal a clear correlation between BSER abnormalities and clinical signs of brain stem dysfunction.", "contents": "Auditory double click evoked potentials in multiple sclerosis. Brain stem electric responses (BSER), evoked by acoustic stimuli, were investigated in 29 patients with multiple sclerosis and compared with the responses in a control group of 26 young adults without neurological disease or hearing defect. The procedure included monaural and binaural stimulus presentation of single clicks and pairs of clicks. In the evaluations the vertex-positive Jewett I, III and V response components, and the vertex-negative \"FFP7\" peak were considered. In the assessment of the BSER components, the FFP7 (the vertex-negative 7 ms far field potential following the JewettV wave) proved to be the best single component with respect to reproducibility in normal subjects. In addition the FFP7 was the single most consistently abnormal component in the patient group. Determination of the latency of the Jewett components and the interpeak conduction times, however, contributed further to the disclosure of the abnormal cases. Five of the patients whose hearing was impaired were considered separately. Of the remaining 24 patients, 20 (83%) had BSER abnormalities. Further analysis did not reveal a clear correlation between BSER abnormalities and clinical signs of brain stem dysfunction.", "PMID": 452844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10232", "title": "Assessment of pituitary function.", "content": "Sellar and parasellar tumours comprise 10-15% of all intracranial neoplasms. Neurologists will this often be faced with the problem of assessing pituitary function. A thorough clinical examination is of the foremost importance. In addition a small number of simple and rapid tests is required. Knowledge of the physiological variation in pituitary function is, however, necessary to allow a safe interpretation of the results. A simple routine procedure for assessing pituitary function is proposed.", "contents": "Assessment of pituitary function. Sellar and parasellar tumours comprise 10-15% of all intracranial neoplasms. Neurologists will this often be faced with the problem of assessing pituitary function. A thorough clinical examination is of the foremost importance. In addition a small number of simple and rapid tests is required. Knowledge of the physiological variation in pituitary function is, however, necessary to allow a safe interpretation of the results. A simple routine procedure for assessing pituitary function is proposed.", "PMID": 452845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10233", "title": "Calcification in a pineal tumour studied by transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction and x-ray microanalysis.", "content": "The calcification in a totally calcified pineal tumour was studied. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that the tumour was a pinealoma. The type of calcification was investigated by bright-field and dark-field transmission electron microscopy in addition to electron diffraction and electron-induced x-ray fluorescence. The calcified material consisted predominantly of amorphous calcium phosphate. The type of calcification differs from the normal calcification present in pineal acervuli which consists of crystalline hydroxypatite.", "contents": "Calcification in a pineal tumour studied by transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction and x-ray microanalysis. The calcification in a totally calcified pineal tumour was studied. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that the tumour was a pinealoma. The type of calcification was investigated by bright-field and dark-field transmission electron microscopy in addition to electron diffraction and electron-induced x-ray fluorescence. The calcified material consisted predominantly of amorphous calcium phosphate. The type of calcification differs from the normal calcification present in pineal acervuli which consists of crystalline hydroxypatite.", "PMID": 452846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10234", "title": "Effect of prostaglandin E2 and of indomethacin upon cerebral and pulmonary consequences of exposure to hyperbaric oxygen in rats.", "content": "There are few data in the literature suggesting that endogenous prostaglandins (PGs) might be involved in the pathomechanism of seizures. Since the mechanism of seizures inducted by exposure to oxygen high pressure (OHP) is not fully elucidated, this study was designed to investigate the effect of exogenous PG s and of indomethacin (a Pg synthesis inhibitor) upon the development and consequences of seizures in rats exposed to OHP (5 ata). In the animals pretreated with PGE2 (1 ng/kg s.c.) pre-seizure time was shortened, lung weight : body weight index increased and symptoms of respiratory failure potentiated, as compared with the control group. Indomethacin (5 mg/kg i.p) prevented the development of seizures and of pulmonary consequences of OHP exposure. Biochemical examination of brains has shown that velocity of free radical oxidation of lipids (reactions manifested by the breakdown of phospholipid fatty acids, mainly unsaturated ones) enhanced by OHP exposure, is further potentiated in rats pretreated with PGE2. Electron microscopic study has shown the alterations similar to those seen in brain ischemia and/or hypoxia, and the magnitude of changes was related to the intensity of symptoms evoked by OHP. The results show that cerebral and pulmonary consequences of OHP exposure are potentiated by exogenous PGE2 and prevented by inhibition of endogenous PG synthesis. This suggests that PGs and/or their active metabolites might be involved in the mechanism of oxygen toxicity during exposure to hyperbaric oxygen.", "contents": "Effect of prostaglandin E2 and of indomethacin upon cerebral and pulmonary consequences of exposure to hyperbaric oxygen in rats. There are few data in the literature suggesting that endogenous prostaglandins (PGs) might be involved in the pathomechanism of seizures. Since the mechanism of seizures inducted by exposure to oxygen high pressure (OHP) is not fully elucidated, this study was designed to investigate the effect of exogenous PG s and of indomethacin (a Pg synthesis inhibitor) upon the development and consequences of seizures in rats exposed to OHP (5 ata). In the animals pretreated with PGE2 (1 ng/kg s.c.) pre-seizure time was shortened, lung weight : body weight index increased and symptoms of respiratory failure potentiated, as compared with the control group. Indomethacin (5 mg/kg i.p) prevented the development of seizures and of pulmonary consequences of OHP exposure. Biochemical examination of brains has shown that velocity of free radical oxidation of lipids (reactions manifested by the breakdown of phospholipid fatty acids, mainly unsaturated ones) enhanced by OHP exposure, is further potentiated in rats pretreated with PGE2. Electron microscopic study has shown the alterations similar to those seen in brain ischemia and/or hypoxia, and the magnitude of changes was related to the intensity of symptoms evoked by OHP. The results show that cerebral and pulmonary consequences of OHP exposure are potentiated by exogenous PGE2 and prevented by inhibition of endogenous PG synthesis. This suggests that PGs and/or their active metabolites might be involved in the mechanism of oxygen toxicity during exposure to hyperbaric oxygen.", "PMID": 452847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10235", "title": "Muscle involvement in association with filarial chyluria.", "content": "Twenty unselected consecutive patients of filarial chyluria were evaluated clinically, electromyographically, and histopathologically for neuromuscular dysfunction. None of the patients showed clinical evidence of muscle wasting or weakness suggesting myopathy, although generalized muscle weakness was complained by all of them particularly while climbing the stairs or on getting up or during lifting heavy weights. Electromyographic abnormalities were found in nine patients and slight histopathological abnormalities in two. The average duration of motor unit potentials and the mean amplitude were reduced, compatible with myopathy. There were no fibrillation potentials. Histological abnormalities consisted of a marked variation in muscle fibre size, sarcolemmal nuclear proliferation, and mild interstitial fatty infiltration. None of the patients showed evidence of clinical neuropathy, abnormalities in conduction velocity along the nerves or signs of segmental demyelination in the biopsy of the nerve. Our data suggest that muscle weakness in these patients is myopathic in nature without peripheral nerve involvement, and is possible due to hypoproteinaemia and hypolipidaemia, as these patients lose excessive amounts of protein and fat in their urine.", "contents": "Muscle involvement in association with filarial chyluria. Twenty unselected consecutive patients of filarial chyluria were evaluated clinically, electromyographically, and histopathologically for neuromuscular dysfunction. None of the patients showed clinical evidence of muscle wasting or weakness suggesting myopathy, although generalized muscle weakness was complained by all of them particularly while climbing the stairs or on getting up or during lifting heavy weights. Electromyographic abnormalities were found in nine patients and slight histopathological abnormalities in two. The average duration of motor unit potentials and the mean amplitude were reduced, compatible with myopathy. There were no fibrillation potentials. Histological abnormalities consisted of a marked variation in muscle fibre size, sarcolemmal nuclear proliferation, and mild interstitial fatty infiltration. None of the patients showed evidence of clinical neuropathy, abnormalities in conduction velocity along the nerves or signs of segmental demyelination in the biopsy of the nerve. Our data suggest that muscle weakness in these patients is myopathic in nature without peripheral nerve involvement, and is possible due to hypoproteinaemia and hypolipidaemia, as these patients lose excessive amounts of protein and fat in their urine.", "PMID": 452848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10236", "title": "On the physiological and clinical significance of a trapezius reflex evoked by tapping the spine.", "content": "On routine clinical examination it was observed that precussion over the thoracic spine occasionally produced reflex contraction of the intermediate and caudal parts of the trapezius muscle. The observation was made in one case of spondylitis and one case of inflammatory connective tissue disorder. Both patients had pain in the thoracolumbar regions. The neurophysiological features of this reflex have been analyzed. The incidence of the phenomenon in a randomly selected normal material was 3%. Electromyographic recording from the trapezius muscle demonstrated that the reflex is present at a subthreshold level in subjects not exhibiting the clinical reflex. The latter is established by pain and/or tension in the thoracolumbar paravertebral region.", "contents": "On the physiological and clinical significance of a trapezius reflex evoked by tapping the spine. On routine clinical examination it was observed that precussion over the thoracic spine occasionally produced reflex contraction of the intermediate and caudal parts of the trapezius muscle. The observation was made in one case of spondylitis and one case of inflammatory connective tissue disorder. Both patients had pain in the thoracolumbar regions. The neurophysiological features of this reflex have been analyzed. The incidence of the phenomenon in a randomly selected normal material was 3%. Electromyographic recording from the trapezius muscle demonstrated that the reflex is present at a subthreshold level in subjects not exhibiting the clinical reflex. The latter is established by pain and/or tension in the thoracolumbar paravertebral region.", "PMID": 452849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10237", "title": "Acute measles infection in a case of multiple sclerosis.", "content": "A young woman with firm evidence of early multiple sclerosis (MS), who had never had measles, developed a clinically and serologically evident measles infection. Follow-up 1 year later confirmed the MS diagnosis. Thus, if measles can have a causal role in MS, it is probably not the only agent with this ability.", "contents": "Acute measles infection in a case of multiple sclerosis. A young woman with firm evidence of early multiple sclerosis (MS), who had never had measles, developed a clinically and serologically evident measles infection. Follow-up 1 year later confirmed the MS diagnosis. Thus, if measles can have a causal role in MS, it is probably not the only agent with this ability.", "PMID": 452850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10238", "title": "Early events in canine distemper demyelinating encephalomyelitis.", "content": "The early neuropathological development of demyelinating Canine Distemper Encephalomyelitis (CDE) was studied in SPF dogs. Neural tissues were examined up to 30 days post infection (PI). Three phases of activity were observed. The primary event (first observed 8 days PI) was a nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis associated with the initiation of central nervous system (CNS) infection by virus-laden lymphocytes. At 24 days PI noninflammatory demyelination occurred in well defined, subependymal foci. Cell fusion and syncytia formation accompanied this early demyelination. The third phase, found at day 30 PI in one dog showing signs of recovery, was a second wave of nonsuppurative inflammation. The initial encephalomyelitis was widely disseminated throughout the CNS but subsequent demyelination appeared to be initiated from within the ventricular system. Myelin was phagocytosed by endogeneous CNS macrophages often infected with Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). The possible importance of viral induced cell fusion as well as immune factors in the mechanism of demyelination are discussed.", "contents": "Early events in canine distemper demyelinating encephalomyelitis. The early neuropathological development of demyelinating Canine Distemper Encephalomyelitis (CDE) was studied in SPF dogs. Neural tissues were examined up to 30 days post infection (PI). Three phases of activity were observed. The primary event (first observed 8 days PI) was a nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis associated with the initiation of central nervous system (CNS) infection by virus-laden lymphocytes. At 24 days PI noninflammatory demyelination occurred in well defined, subependymal foci. Cell fusion and syncytia formation accompanied this early demyelination. The third phase, found at day 30 PI in one dog showing signs of recovery, was a second wave of nonsuppurative inflammation. The initial encephalomyelitis was widely disseminated throughout the CNS but subsequent demyelination appeared to be initiated from within the ventricular system. Myelin was phagocytosed by endogeneous CNS macrophages often infected with Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). The possible importance of viral induced cell fusion as well as immune factors in the mechanism of demyelination are discussed.", "PMID": 452851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10239", "title": "Quantitative estimate of pinocytosis in experimental acute hypertension.", "content": "Cerebral cortical arterioles in focal neocortical areas develop increased permeability to plasma proteins and protein tracers in experimental hypertensive encephalopathy. The mechanism underlying this increased permeability has been the subject of several studies. In our previous studies of angiotensin-induced acute hypertension, pinocytosis appeared to be the principal mechanism for the increased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability observed. In the present study pinocytotic activity was assessed quantitatively to determine whether enhanced pinocytosis was confined to the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals. In addition, the effect of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) itself on the pinocytotic activity of normal cerebral cortical arteriolar endothelium was determined. In 12 rats following administration of HRP, hypertension was induced by an infusion of angiotensin. The animals were perfusion-fixed 90 s after the onset of the infusion. Control animals received saline only or HRP only. The area of arteriolar endothelium in cross section was determined by a planimeter from overlapping electron micrographs taken at a constant magnification around the circumference of the vessel wall. Results indicate a significant (P less than 0.001) increase in the number of pinocytotic vesicles in the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals as compared with nonpermeable arteriolar segments of the same animals and comparable segments of normotensive rats. In addition, eight times as many vesicles appear to be transporting tracer in the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals as compared to the nonpermeable segments of the same animals and normotensive animals. HRP alone did not affect the pinocytotic index, there being no difference (P greater than 0.05) in the number of vesicles in normotensive animals receiving saline only and those receiving HRP only. Our previous observation that disruption of endothelial cells or their tight junctions did not occur was confirmed.", "contents": "Quantitative estimate of pinocytosis in experimental acute hypertension. Cerebral cortical arterioles in focal neocortical areas develop increased permeability to plasma proteins and protein tracers in experimental hypertensive encephalopathy. The mechanism underlying this increased permeability has been the subject of several studies. In our previous studies of angiotensin-induced acute hypertension, pinocytosis appeared to be the principal mechanism for the increased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability observed. In the present study pinocytotic activity was assessed quantitatively to determine whether enhanced pinocytosis was confined to the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals. In addition, the effect of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) itself on the pinocytotic activity of normal cerebral cortical arteriolar endothelium was determined. In 12 rats following administration of HRP, hypertension was induced by an infusion of angiotensin. The animals were perfusion-fixed 90 s after the onset of the infusion. Control animals received saline only or HRP only. The area of arteriolar endothelium in cross section was determined by a planimeter from overlapping electron micrographs taken at a constant magnification around the circumference of the vessel wall. Results indicate a significant (P less than 0.001) increase in the number of pinocytotic vesicles in the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals as compared with nonpermeable arteriolar segments of the same animals and comparable segments of normotensive rats. In addition, eight times as many vesicles appear to be transporting tracer in the permeable arteriolar segments of hypertensive animals as compared to the nonpermeable segments of the same animals and normotensive animals. HRP alone did not affect the pinocytotic index, there being no difference (P greater than 0.05) in the number of vesicles in normotensive animals receiving saline only and those receiving HRP only. Our previous observation that disruption of endothelial cells or their tight junctions did not occur was confirmed.", "PMID": 452852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10240", "title": "Histochemical investigation of the Mongolian gerbil's brain during unilateral ischemia.", "content": "The ischemic effect on cerebral enzymes and glycogen content was histochemically evaluated in mongolian gerbils subjected to unilateral common carotid artery occlusion for various periods of time from 1/2 to 9 h. In early stages (up to 2 h), the only enzyme affected was the phosphorylase which revealed a decreased activity. Thereafter, the observed changes inclusive of glycogen and other enzymes such as the dehydrogenase, nonspecific acid and alkaline phosphatases, leucine aminopeptidase and thiamine pyrophosphatase progressed proportionally to the duration of ischemia. There was an overall inverse appearance of histochemically demonstrated enzymatic disturbances between the severely damaged ischemic regions and its marginal zones; the former revealing a conspicuous decrease and/or loss of enzymatic activities while the latter showing an increase of the same enzymes. Correlating the various ischemic responses of the intracellular organelles it appears that the changes in the lysosomes and Golgi apparatus occurred slower than those of mitochondria.", "contents": "Histochemical investigation of the Mongolian gerbil's brain during unilateral ischemia. The ischemic effect on cerebral enzymes and glycogen content was histochemically evaluated in mongolian gerbils subjected to unilateral common carotid artery occlusion for various periods of time from 1/2 to 9 h. In early stages (up to 2 h), the only enzyme affected was the phosphorylase which revealed a decreased activity. Thereafter, the observed changes inclusive of glycogen and other enzymes such as the dehydrogenase, nonspecific acid and alkaline phosphatases, leucine aminopeptidase and thiamine pyrophosphatase progressed proportionally to the duration of ischemia. There was an overall inverse appearance of histochemically demonstrated enzymatic disturbances between the severely damaged ischemic regions and its marginal zones; the former revealing a conspicuous decrease and/or loss of enzymatic activities while the latter showing an increase of the same enzymes. Correlating the various ischemic responses of the intracellular organelles it appears that the changes in the lysosomes and Golgi apparatus occurred slower than those of mitochondria.", "PMID": 452853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10241", "title": "A study of the perineurial diffusion barrier of a peripheral ganglion.", "content": "The perineurial diffusion barrier to horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and ferritin was investigated in superior cervical ganglia of rats and mice. The ganglion was surrounded by a delicate epineurium and 2-5 perineurial lamellae joined by zonulae occludentes and desmosomes. Following local application of tracers the animals were killed after 5, 30, and 60 min and the distribution of HRP and ferritin was studied by light and electron microscopy. The inner layers of the ganglionic perineurium prevented diffusion of both HRP and ferritin perineurial lamellae investing the ganglion. HRP had often extended to the innermost lamella 60 min after application. HRP and ferritin were present in vesicles of ganglionic perineurial cells. There was no passage of tracers via intercellular junctions.", "contents": "A study of the perineurial diffusion barrier of a peripheral ganglion. The perineurial diffusion barrier to horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and ferritin was investigated in superior cervical ganglia of rats and mice. The ganglion was surrounded by a delicate epineurium and 2-5 perineurial lamellae joined by zonulae occludentes and desmosomes. Following local application of tracers the animals were killed after 5, 30, and 60 min and the distribution of HRP and ferritin was studied by light and electron microscopy. The inner layers of the ganglionic perineurium prevented diffusion of both HRP and ferritin perineurial lamellae investing the ganglion. HRP had often extended to the innermost lamella 60 min after application. HRP and ferritin were present in vesicles of ganglionic perineurial cells. There was no passage of tracers via intercellular junctions.", "PMID": 452854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10242", "title": "Chlorpromazine treatment of blood-brain barrier dysfunction. A quantitative and fluorescence microscopical study on small cerebral stab wounds in the rat.", "content": "The extravasation of albumin around small cerebral stab wounds in the rat frontal cortex was studied by fluorescence microscopy after i.v. injection of Evans blue-labeled albumin and by quantitative immunoelectrophoresis after i.v. injection of bovine albumin, in both nonintoxicated and ethanol-intoxicated rats. The extravasion of albumin was enhanced in ethanol-intoxicated compared to nonintoxicated rats, as studied both by immunoelectrophoresis and by fluorescence microscopy. Administration of chloropromazine (2 mg/kg body weight i.v.) 16 h after inflicting cerebral stab wounds decreased the area around the wound showing extravasation of Evans blue-labeled albumin as studied by fluorescence microscopy both in nonintoxicated and in ethanol-intoxicated rats. Quantitative studies showed a significanct decrease in the amount of extravasated albumin around cerebral stab wounds in ehtnaol-entoxicated rats, while the extravasation in nonintoxicated rats was not significantly changed by chlorpromizine treatment.", "contents": "Chlorpromazine treatment of blood-brain barrier dysfunction. A quantitative and fluorescence microscopical study on small cerebral stab wounds in the rat. The extravasation of albumin around small cerebral stab wounds in the rat frontal cortex was studied by fluorescence microscopy after i.v. injection of Evans blue-labeled albumin and by quantitative immunoelectrophoresis after i.v. injection of bovine albumin, in both nonintoxicated and ethanol-intoxicated rats. The extravasion of albumin was enhanced in ethanol-intoxicated compared to nonintoxicated rats, as studied both by immunoelectrophoresis and by fluorescence microscopy. Administration of chloropromazine (2 mg/kg body weight i.v.) 16 h after inflicting cerebral stab wounds decreased the area around the wound showing extravasation of Evans blue-labeled albumin as studied by fluorescence microscopy both in nonintoxicated and in ethanol-intoxicated rats. Quantitative studies showed a significanct decrease in the amount of extravasated albumin around cerebral stab wounds in ehtnaol-entoxicated rats, while the extravasation in nonintoxicated rats was not significantly changed by chlorpromizine treatment.", "PMID": 452855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10243", "title": "Neuroaxonal dystrophy in the neonate. A case report.", "content": "The nervous system of a female infant who was hypotonic from birth and survived for 8 days was examined. Neuropathological and electron microscopic study revealed numerous neuroaxonal swellings, so-called spheroids, in the brainstem and extensive necrosis in the cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum.", "contents": "Neuroaxonal dystrophy in the neonate. A case report. The nervous system of a female infant who was hypotonic from birth and survived for 8 days was examined. Neuropathological and electron microscopic study revealed numerous neuroaxonal swellings, so-called spheroids, in the brainstem and extensive necrosis in the cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum.", "PMID": 452856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10244", "title": "Spongiform alterations in brain biopsies of presenile dementia.", "content": "Spongiform lesions were observed in close association with typical presenile alterations in three of six frontal lobe biopsies taken in presenile demented patients without any familial relationship. These findings are discussed in relation with recent investigations indicating the production of spongiform lesions after inoculation of nervous tissue from an Alzheimer patient to animals and the effects of saline extract of such material on cultured nerve cells.", "contents": "Spongiform alterations in brain biopsies of presenile dementia. Spongiform lesions were observed in close association with typical presenile alterations in three of six frontal lobe biopsies taken in presenile demented patients without any familial relationship. These findings are discussed in relation with recent investigations indicating the production of spongiform lesions after inoculation of nervous tissue from an Alzheimer patient to animals and the effects of saline extract of such material on cultured nerve cells.", "PMID": 452857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10245", "title": "Fine structure of prolactin pituitary adenoma with special reference to annulate lamellae. A case report.", "content": "Electron microscopy revealed the presence of annulate lamellae in the cytoplasm of a heavily granulated prolactin cell adenoma that had been removed from a 34-year-old male patient presenting impotence. To our knowledge this is the third case of pituitary adenomas where annulate lamellae are reported.", "contents": "Fine structure of prolactin pituitary adenoma with special reference to annulate lamellae. A case report. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of annulate lamellae in the cytoplasm of a heavily granulated prolactin cell adenoma that had been removed from a 34-year-old male patient presenting impotence. To our knowledge this is the third case of pituitary adenomas where annulate lamellae are reported.", "PMID": 452858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10246", "title": "Influence of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetate and of dantrolene sodium on the target phenomenon in tenotomized rat gastrocnemius muscle.", "content": "The effect of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetate and of dantrolene sodium on the occurrence of target fibers in tenotomized rat gastrocnemius muscle was studied. Neither of the drugs influenced the appearance of target fibers or its inhibition by simultaneous neurotomy.", "contents": "Influence of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetate and of dantrolene sodium on the target phenomenon in tenotomized rat gastrocnemius muscle. The effect of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetate and of dantrolene sodium on the occurrence of target fibers in tenotomized rat gastrocnemius muscle was studied. Neither of the drugs influenced the appearance of target fibers or its inhibition by simultaneous neurotomy.", "PMID": 452859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10247", "title": "The fine structure of cerebral capillaries in \"overgrown\" neural tissue.", "content": "Cerebral capillaries in \"overgrown\" neural tissue of chick embryo brains ranging in age from 5-18 days of incubation were studied by means of electron microscopy. The vessels in the abnormal tissue showed more extensive and prolonged interdigitations and overlapping of adjacent endothelial cells than did those in normal control brains. In the abnormal neural tissue the appearance and distribution of endothelial cell organelles was similar to that in normal tissue; however, the Golgi complex was less highly developed, and there was an increased amount of coated vesicles in the capillaries of the abnormal brains.", "contents": "The fine structure of cerebral capillaries in \"overgrown\" neural tissue. Cerebral capillaries in \"overgrown\" neural tissue of chick embryo brains ranging in age from 5-18 days of incubation were studied by means of electron microscopy. The vessels in the abnormal tissue showed more extensive and prolonged interdigitations and overlapping of adjacent endothelial cells than did those in normal control brains. In the abnormal neural tissue the appearance and distribution of endothelial cell organelles was similar to that in normal tissue; however, the Golgi complex was less highly developed, and there was an increased amount of coated vesicles in the capillaries of the abnormal brains.", "PMID": 452860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10248", "title": "Ultrastructural and electrophysiological features of meningioma whorls in tissue culture.", "content": "Cultured cells derived from a psammomatous meningioma were induced to from whorls in vitro by deprivation of nutrients. The ultrastructural features of desmosomes and junctional complexes were similar to sections from the surgical specimen; also prominent were 9-10 nm cytoplasmic filaments. Microelectrode recording of whorled cells showed a larger resting membrane potential than that of similar isolated meningioma cells in culture. Whorl formation seen in this tumor may be a result of relative nutritional deprivation and the need for metabolic cooperation among tumor cells.", "contents": "Ultrastructural and electrophysiological features of meningioma whorls in tissue culture. Cultured cells derived from a psammomatous meningioma were induced to from whorls in vitro by deprivation of nutrients. The ultrastructural features of desmosomes and junctional complexes were similar to sections from the surgical specimen; also prominent were 9-10 nm cytoplasmic filaments. Microelectrode recording of whorled cells showed a larger resting membrane potential than that of similar isolated meningioma cells in culture. Whorl formation seen in this tumor may be a result of relative nutritional deprivation and the need for metabolic cooperation among tumor cells.", "PMID": 452861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10249", "title": "DNA content of meningiomas.", "content": "Flow cytometric DNA analysis was carried out in 35 meningiomas. Thirty-three had diploid stem lines while two were aneuploid having a triploid DNA mode. Both aneuploid meningiomas were grossly huge nodular tumours and one had malignant histologic features. Flow cytometry in meningiomas is a rapid means of determining the DNA modes and adds objective information to microscopy. Appropriate cases may be selected for further cytogenetic studies.", "contents": "DNA content of meningiomas. Flow cytometric DNA analysis was carried out in 35 meningiomas. Thirty-three had diploid stem lines while two were aneuploid having a triploid DNA mode. Both aneuploid meningiomas were grossly huge nodular tumours and one had malignant histologic features. Flow cytometry in meningiomas is a rapid means of determining the DNA modes and adds objective information to microscopy. Appropriate cases may be selected for further cytogenetic studies.", "PMID": 452863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10250", "title": "Pigmentoarchitectonic pathology of the isocortex in juvenile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis: axonal enlargements in layer IIIab and cell loss in layer V.", "content": "Pigment preparations of 800 micrometer thickness and Golgi studies of the isocortex in juvenile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis, morphologically proven by electron microscopy, revealed: 1. giant axonal dilatations of IIIab-pyramids. These expansions exceeded by far those found in pyramidal cell axons of other isocortical layers. 2. severe numerical reduction of neurons in the ganglionic layer.", "contents": "Pigmentoarchitectonic pathology of the isocortex in juvenile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis: axonal enlargements in layer IIIab and cell loss in layer V. Pigment preparations of 800 micrometer thickness and Golgi studies of the isocortex in juvenile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis, morphologically proven by electron microscopy, revealed: 1. giant axonal dilatations of IIIab-pyramids. These expansions exceeded by far those found in pyramidal cell axons of other isocortical layers. 2. severe numerical reduction of neurons in the ganglionic layer.", "PMID": 452864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10251", "title": "Duration of labour with spontaneous onset.", "content": "Among 2242 women with spontaneous onset of labour, the median duration of labour for those delivered vaginally was 8 1/4 hours in para 0, 5 1/2 hours in para 1 and 4 3/4 hours in para 2+ mothers. In the parity groups 0, 1 and 2+ 90% had delivered within 16 1/4 hours, 10 1/2 hours and 10 3/4 hours, respectively, while 10% of para 0 labours lasted less than 4 hours, 10% of para 1 labours less than 2 1/4 hours and finally 10% of para 2+ labours less than 2 hours. In the first stage of labour the latent phase (cervical dilatation less than 4 cm), was nearly 2.5 times as long as the active phase (cervical dilatation 4-10 cm). The second stage (cervical dilatation 10 cm-birth) had a median duration of 16 min in para 0 and approximately 10 min in para 1+ mothers. The length of the latent and active phases and the second stage for para 1+ mothers was 60-70% of that of para 0 mothers. In individual mothers there were weak correlations between the length of the phases and stages. For example, the length of the latent phase appeared to be a relatively poor predictor of the length of the active phase of labour. However, selection bias may have weakened these correlations somewhat.", "contents": "Duration of labour with spontaneous onset. Among 2242 women with spontaneous onset of labour, the median duration of labour for those delivered vaginally was 8 1/4 hours in para 0, 5 1/2 hours in para 1 and 4 3/4 hours in para 2+ mothers. In the parity groups 0, 1 and 2+ 90% had delivered within 16 1/4 hours, 10 1/2 hours and 10 3/4 hours, respectively, while 10% of para 0 labours lasted less than 4 hours, 10% of para 1 labours less than 2 1/4 hours and finally 10% of para 2+ labours less than 2 hours. In the first stage of labour the latent phase (cervical dilatation less than 4 cm), was nearly 2.5 times as long as the active phase (cervical dilatation 4-10 cm). The second stage (cervical dilatation 10 cm-birth) had a median duration of 16 min in para 0 and approximately 10 min in para 1+ mothers. The length of the latent and active phases and the second stage for para 1+ mothers was 60-70% of that of para 0 mothers. In individual mothers there were weak correlations between the length of the phases and stages. For example, the length of the latent phase appeared to be a relatively poor predictor of the length of the active phase of labour. However, selection bias may have weakened these correlations somewhat.", "PMID": 452865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10252", "title": "Segmental epidural analgesia in labour: related to the progress of labour, fetal malposition and instrumental delivery.", "content": "The effect of low-dose continuous segmental epidural analgesia given during the first stage of labour on the progress of labour, the frequency of fetal malpositions and the rate of vacuum extractions was studied prospectively in 100 parturients (epidural group). The results were compared with 100 parturients given none or conventional analgesia (control group). The results showed that in the primiparous epidural group the progress of labour before analgesia was induced was significantly slower than in the control group. After the block, however, the subsequent course of the labour was of equal duration in both groups. The durations of the second stages of labour did not differ significantly between the groups. The differences in fetal malpositions at delivery were statistically insignificant. Nor did the rate of vacuum extractions, 8% in the primiparous and 0% in the multiparous epidural group, differ statistically from the corresponding rate in the control groups. The results signify a normal progress and outcome of labour after low-dose segmental epidural analgesia.", "contents": "Segmental epidural analgesia in labour: related to the progress of labour, fetal malposition and instrumental delivery. The effect of low-dose continuous segmental epidural analgesia given during the first stage of labour on the progress of labour, the frequency of fetal malpositions and the rate of vacuum extractions was studied prospectively in 100 parturients (epidural group). The results were compared with 100 parturients given none or conventional analgesia (control group). The results showed that in the primiparous epidural group the progress of labour before analgesia was induced was significantly slower than in the control group. After the block, however, the subsequent course of the labour was of equal duration in both groups. The durations of the second stages of labour did not differ significantly between the groups. The differences in fetal malpositions at delivery were statistically insignificant. Nor did the rate of vacuum extractions, 8% in the primiparous and 0% in the multiparous epidural group, differ statistically from the corresponding rate in the control groups. The results signify a normal progress and outcome of labour after low-dose segmental epidural analgesia.", "PMID": 452866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10253", "title": "Pregnancy complications following legally induced abortion with special reference to abortion technique.", "content": "A study of 576 pregnant women, whose previous pregnancy had been terminated by legally induced abortion, has shown that the rate of pregnancy and delivery complications could not be correlated with the interval between the abortion and the subsequent pregnancy, nor with the gestational age at the time of abortion, nor the number of previous induced abortions. Neither was the abortion technique found to correlate with the frequency of complications in a subsequent pregnancy. It was found, however, that more infants with a birth weight below 2 501 grams were born to women whose cervical canal during abortion had been dilated more than 12 mm, and by women who had been submitted to r\u00e9curettage. The latter group also demonstrated a higher frequency of retained placenta or placental tissue.", "contents": "Pregnancy complications following legally induced abortion with special reference to abortion technique. A study of 576 pregnant women, whose previous pregnancy had been terminated by legally induced abortion, has shown that the rate of pregnancy and delivery complications could not be correlated with the interval between the abortion and the subsequent pregnancy, nor with the gestational age at the time of abortion, nor the number of previous induced abortions. Neither was the abortion technique found to correlate with the frequency of complications in a subsequent pregnancy. It was found, however, that more infants with a birth weight below 2 501 grams were born to women whose cervical canal during abortion had been dilated more than 12 mm, and by women who had been submitted to r\u00e9curettage. The latter group also demonstrated a higher frequency of retained placenta or placental tissue.", "PMID": 452867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10254", "title": "Ultrasound diagnosis of fetal abnormalities in multiple pregnancy.", "content": "Over a period of four years, 41 cases of abnormal multiple pregnancies were diagnosed successfully by ultrasound. These include several rare combinations of abnormalities. The most frequent was a normal pregnancy and a synchronous blighted ovum. Others were twin blighted ova, blighted ovum and missed abortion, missed abortion in both gestational sacs, two embryonic echoes with the development of only one baby, normal fetus and an anencephalic twin, normal fetus and fetus papyraceous, and triplets with two fetuses papyraceous. The results suggest that one or more gestational sacs may be resorbed during pregnancy without any adverse effect on the coexisting normal fetus. From a practical point of view, it is important to be aware of these possibilities before giving the final diagnosis of multiple pregnancy to the patient. The more diagnostic ultrasound is used in obstetrics, the more rare abnormalities associated with multiple pregnancies will be revealed.", "contents": "Ultrasound diagnosis of fetal abnormalities in multiple pregnancy. Over a period of four years, 41 cases of abnormal multiple pregnancies were diagnosed successfully by ultrasound. These include several rare combinations of abnormalities. The most frequent was a normal pregnancy and a synchronous blighted ovum. Others were twin blighted ova, blighted ovum and missed abortion, missed abortion in both gestational sacs, two embryonic echoes with the development of only one baby, normal fetus and an anencephalic twin, normal fetus and fetus papyraceous, and triplets with two fetuses papyraceous. The results suggest that one or more gestational sacs may be resorbed during pregnancy without any adverse effect on the coexisting normal fetus. From a practical point of view, it is important to be aware of these possibilities before giving the final diagnosis of multiple pregnancy to the patient. The more diagnostic ultrasound is used in obstetrics, the more rare abnormalities associated with multiple pregnancies will be revealed.", "PMID": 452868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10255", "title": "Placenta as an indicator of fetal postnatal prognosis.", "content": "468 placentas were studied microscopically and by gross examination. Velamentous insertion of the umbilical cord, placenta circumvallate, retroplacental hematoma in connection with ablation of the placenta, and cord prolapse were found to be causative factors in asphyxia of the newborn. The increased placental weight was characteristic in maternal diabetes, hepatosis and, sometimes, in cases of infant malformations and specific inflammations. So-called embryonal persistence was often found histologically in these changes. Small fibrous placentas and those with ramification defects were commonly encountered among cases of toxemia and prolonged gestation. Microscopical placental maturation defects were not indicative of the fetal condition. Thus, only the changes found at gross examination appeared to be a significant indicator of the fetal prognosis.", "contents": "Placenta as an indicator of fetal postnatal prognosis. 468 placentas were studied microscopically and by gross examination. Velamentous insertion of the umbilical cord, placenta circumvallate, retroplacental hematoma in connection with ablation of the placenta, and cord prolapse were found to be causative factors in asphyxia of the newborn. The increased placental weight was characteristic in maternal diabetes, hepatosis and, sometimes, in cases of infant malformations and specific inflammations. So-called embryonal persistence was often found histologically in these changes. Small fibrous placentas and those with ramification defects were commonly encountered among cases of toxemia and prolonged gestation. Microscopical placental maturation defects were not indicative of the fetal condition. Thus, only the changes found at gross examination appeared to be a significant indicator of the fetal prognosis.", "PMID": 452869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10256", "title": "Menstrual regulation as a method for early termination of pregnancy.", "content": "116 women with documented or suspected pregnancy underwent an endometrial aspiration for early termination. Their menses delay was between 7 and 22 days. A standard 3 mm Vabra aspirator was used. 90.5% were actually pregnant. The success rate was 97.1%. The total complication rate was 6.8%, the most common complication being endometritis. Three patients required a re-evacuation because of prolonged bleeding. In this series there were two ectopic pregnancies and nine cases of ovum abortivum, of which one later turned out to be a hydatiform mole. The procedure was well tolerated by the patients. No sick-leave was given. The postoperative bleeding averaged 10 days in primigravid and 7 days in parous patients.", "contents": "Menstrual regulation as a method for early termination of pregnancy. 116 women with documented or suspected pregnancy underwent an endometrial aspiration for early termination. Their menses delay was between 7 and 22 days. A standard 3 mm Vabra aspirator was used. 90.5% were actually pregnant. The success rate was 97.1%. The total complication rate was 6.8%, the most common complication being endometritis. Three patients required a re-evacuation because of prolonged bleeding. In this series there were two ectopic pregnancies and nine cases of ovum abortivum, of which one later turned out to be a hydatiform mole. The procedure was well tolerated by the patients. No sick-leave was given. The postoperative bleeding averaged 10 days in primigravid and 7 days in parous patients.", "PMID": 452870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10257", "title": "The treatment of postmenopausal syndrome by monthly oral doses of quinestrol.", "content": "Seventy patients between the ages of 37 and 59 suffering from the menopausal syndrome were included in a clinical trial and treated for a period of 6 to 18 months. Out of the seventy, 43 were suffering from spontaneous and 27 from surgical menopause. Forty of them were given 1 mg of quinestrol and 30 received placebo. The drug was administered orally in a one-tablet dose once a month. An improvement took place in 35 (87.5%) of the women receiving quinestrol but in only 15 (50%) of those receiving placebo. Among the patients with spontaneous menopause an improvement was seen in 22 out of 25 (88%) receiving quinestrol, compared with 9 out of 18 (50%) receiving placebo. Tolerance of the drug was good and most of the laboratory tests as well as blood pressure and body weight showed statistically non-significant changes. This kind of treatment is expecially suitable when daily intake is undesirable.", "contents": "The treatment of postmenopausal syndrome by monthly oral doses of quinestrol. Seventy patients between the ages of 37 and 59 suffering from the menopausal syndrome were included in a clinical trial and treated for a period of 6 to 18 months. Out of the seventy, 43 were suffering from spontaneous and 27 from surgical menopause. Forty of them were given 1 mg of quinestrol and 30 received placebo. The drug was administered orally in a one-tablet dose once a month. An improvement took place in 35 (87.5%) of the women receiving quinestrol but in only 15 (50%) of those receiving placebo. Among the patients with spontaneous menopause an improvement was seen in 22 out of 25 (88%) receiving quinestrol, compared with 9 out of 18 (50%) receiving placebo. Tolerance of the drug was good and most of the laboratory tests as well as blood pressure and body weight showed statistically non-significant changes. This kind of treatment is expecially suitable when daily intake is undesirable.", "PMID": 452871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10258", "title": "Amniotic fluid phospholipid concentrations in pregnancies with pre-eclampsia and/or intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus.", "content": "Amniotic fluid lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios were examined in 74 samples from 65 patients with preeclampsia. The median values were comparable to those obtained in a reference series up to 36 weeks of gestation whereas the median values after 37 weeks of gestation were found to be significantly smaller in the preeclamptic group (p less than 0.01). According to the present results a L/S ratio greater than or equal to 2 would in fact guarantee no development of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in the infants of preeclamptic mothers. On the contrary L/S ratios less than or equal to 1.6 may be of limited predictive value in these women since only 1/3 of the children developed RDS. When preeclampsia was combined with intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus, RDS was found to be less apt to develop. In 21 samples of amniotic fluid from 13 women with idiopathic intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus the L/S ratios were significantly below those in the reference series (p less than 0.05). No case of RDS was observed.", "contents": "Amniotic fluid phospholipid concentrations in pregnancies with pre-eclampsia and/or intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus. Amniotic fluid lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios were examined in 74 samples from 65 patients with preeclampsia. The median values were comparable to those obtained in a reference series up to 36 weeks of gestation whereas the median values after 37 weeks of gestation were found to be significantly smaller in the preeclamptic group (p less than 0.01). According to the present results a L/S ratio greater than or equal to 2 would in fact guarantee no development of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in the infants of preeclamptic mothers. On the contrary L/S ratios less than or equal to 1.6 may be of limited predictive value in these women since only 1/3 of the children developed RDS. When preeclampsia was combined with intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus, RDS was found to be less apt to develop. In 21 samples of amniotic fluid from 13 women with idiopathic intrauterine growth-retardation of the fetus the L/S ratios were significantly below those in the reference series (p less than 0.05). No case of RDS was observed.", "PMID": 452873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10259", "title": "Effect of alkoxyglycerols on the frequency of fistulas following radiation therapy for carcinoma of the uterine cervix.", "content": "The incidence of injuries following radiation therapy for carcinoma of the uterine cervix is markedly decreased by the administration of alkoxyglycerols. This is the case for less harmful injuries as well as for the more severe ones, i.e. the fistulas. Recto-vaginal and vesico-vaginal fistulas are reduced with 47 per cent when alkoxyglycerols are administered prior to radiation treatment.", "contents": "Effect of alkoxyglycerols on the frequency of fistulas following radiation therapy for carcinoma of the uterine cervix. The incidence of injuries following radiation therapy for carcinoma of the uterine cervix is markedly decreased by the administration of alkoxyglycerols. This is the case for less harmful injuries as well as for the more severe ones, i.e. the fistulas. Recto-vaginal and vesico-vaginal fistulas are reduced with 47 per cent when alkoxyglycerols are administered prior to radiation treatment.", "PMID": 452874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10260", "title": "Failure of fusion between an upper and a lower segment of the vagina.", "content": "A unique malformation of the vagina with a tiny fistula between an upper and a lower segment of the vagina is presented with a brief summary of the theories concerning the development of the vagina.", "contents": "Failure of fusion between an upper and a lower segment of the vagina. A unique malformation of the vagina with a tiny fistula between an upper and a lower segment of the vagina is presented with a brief summary of the theories concerning the development of the vagina.", "PMID": 452878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10261", "title": "A simple method for screening of children with strabismus, anisometropia or ametropia by simultaneous photography of the corneal and the fundus reflexes.", "content": "A simple screening method for detecting strabismus, anisometropia and ametropia in young children by simultaneous photography of the corneal and fundus reflexes with a conventional camera and flashlight is presented. The method is the photographic application of the von Br\u00fcckner Durchleuchtung test and static skiascopy. The objective document from the external part of the eyes and the face is obtained at the same time. Model photographs with certain gaze deviation angles are presented with the method.", "contents": "A simple method for screening of children with strabismus, anisometropia or ametropia by simultaneous photography of the corneal and the fundus reflexes. A simple screening method for detecting strabismus, anisometropia and ametropia in young children by simultaneous photography of the corneal and fundus reflexes with a conventional camera and flashlight is presented. The method is the photographic application of the von Br\u00fcckner Durchleuchtung test and static skiascopy. The objective document from the external part of the eyes and the face is obtained at the same time. Model photographs with certain gaze deviation angles are presented with the method.", "PMID": 452880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10262", "title": "Fundus fluorescein angiography in fundus flavimaculatus and Stargardts disease.", "content": "Three siblings who had fundus flavimaculatus and two patients who had Stargardts disease were studied by means of fundus fluorescein angiography. The angiograms revealed in all cases an abolished visibility of the chorioidal circulation. New flecks are usually non-fluorescent. Later on, hyperfluorescent areas are seen at identical places both in the preretinal and retinal phases, strongly indicating a window effect of the retinal layer. The missing chorioidal flush is probably due to a blocking effect of the emitting and exciting light. Some of the retinal flecks may fade away, leaving corresponding areas of hyperfluorescence that usually persist. In some cases, however, a previous fluorescent area may become non-fluorescent. The similar angiographic picture may indicate that fundus flavimaculatus and Stargardts disease are different expressions of the same disease.", "contents": "Fundus fluorescein angiography in fundus flavimaculatus and Stargardts disease. Three siblings who had fundus flavimaculatus and two patients who had Stargardts disease were studied by means of fundus fluorescein angiography. The angiograms revealed in all cases an abolished visibility of the chorioidal circulation. New flecks are usually non-fluorescent. Later on, hyperfluorescent areas are seen at identical places both in the preretinal and retinal phases, strongly indicating a window effect of the retinal layer. The missing chorioidal flush is probably due to a blocking effect of the emitting and exciting light. Some of the retinal flecks may fade away, leaving corresponding areas of hyperfluorescence that usually persist. In some cases, however, a previous fluorescent area may become non-fluorescent. The similar angiographic picture may indicate that fundus flavimaculatus and Stargardts disease are different expressions of the same disease.", "PMID": 452881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10263", "title": "Retinal damage experimentally induced by microwave radiation at 55 mW/cm2.", "content": "The action of 550 W/m2 (mean) 3100 MHz pulsed radiation on the rabbit retina in vivo was investigated by fundus photography, blood-retinal barrier tracers, light and electron microscopy, either after a single 1--1.5 h exposure or after a series of repeated 1 h exposures for up to 53 h during about 100 days. The electron microscopic investigation of the repeatedly exposed retinas revealed degenerative changes in the retinal neurons. The neurons appeared depleted of their cytoplasmic constituents and often contained phago-lysosomal structures with myelin bodies. There were many degenerating synaptic boutons. The glial cells displayed reactive changes. These ultrastructural changes could not be demonstrated by the other methods used. A single microwave exposure, followed by an induced 70--100% blood-pressure increase, did not enhance blood-retina barrier permeability to tracers. There was no evidence of blood brain barrier leakage. These studies show that the rabbit eye can be affected by microwave radiation at intensities lower than previously reported.", "contents": "Retinal damage experimentally induced by microwave radiation at 55 mW/cm2. The action of 550 W/m2 (mean) 3100 MHz pulsed radiation on the rabbit retina in vivo was investigated by fundus photography, blood-retinal barrier tracers, light and electron microscopy, either after a single 1--1.5 h exposure or after a series of repeated 1 h exposures for up to 53 h during about 100 days. The electron microscopic investigation of the repeatedly exposed retinas revealed degenerative changes in the retinal neurons. The neurons appeared depleted of their cytoplasmic constituents and often contained phago-lysosomal structures with myelin bodies. There were many degenerating synaptic boutons. The glial cells displayed reactive changes. These ultrastructural changes could not be demonstrated by the other methods used. A single microwave exposure, followed by an induced 70--100% blood-pressure increase, did not enhance blood-retina barrier permeability to tracers. There was no evidence of blood brain barrier leakage. These studies show that the rabbit eye can be affected by microwave radiation at intensities lower than previously reported.", "PMID": 452882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10264", "title": "The effect of metoprolol on intra-ocular pressure in glaucoma. A pilot study.", "content": "Eleven patients with previously untreated glaucoma of one eye were given metoprolol, 50 mg x 3 for one day. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and heart rate were significantly reduced during treatment, and increased after withdrawal of the drug. In the eyes with glaucoma, the mean IOP was reduced from 30.1 to 20.6 mmHg during treatment. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also reduced during treatment, but stayed at the same level after withdrawal of the drug. It is concluded that at least part of the reductions observed for IOP and heart rate are drug-induced, while the effect on blood preassure is mainly induced by factors other than the drug. The effect on IOP is considered large enough to be of clinical interest.", "contents": "The effect of metoprolol on intra-ocular pressure in glaucoma. A pilot study. Eleven patients with previously untreated glaucoma of one eye were given metoprolol, 50 mg x 3 for one day. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and heart rate were significantly reduced during treatment, and increased after withdrawal of the drug. In the eyes with glaucoma, the mean IOP was reduced from 30.1 to 20.6 mmHg during treatment. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also reduced during treatment, but stayed at the same level after withdrawal of the drug. It is concluded that at least part of the reductions observed for IOP and heart rate are drug-induced, while the effect on blood preassure is mainly induced by factors other than the drug. The effect on IOP is considered large enough to be of clinical interest.", "PMID": 452883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10265", "title": "Corneal astigmatism after cataract extraction. A comparison of corneal and corneoscleral incisions.", "content": "Corneal astigmatism after cataract surgery by way of corneal incision (C, n = 62) and corneo-scleral incision (CS, n = 61) was followed for six months. Corneal incisions were closed by continuous nylon 10--0 (7--25 loops, median 14). Corneo-scleral incisions were sutured with single knots (2--10, median value 5). Keratometric results in the C and CS groups are compared. Concerning the degree of astigmatism, pre-operative median values were 0.5 and 0.7 D, respectively. After one week they were 4.5 and 3.0 D; after two weeks 3.3 and 3.0 D; after four months 3.0 and 2.0 D; after six months (final status) 1.5 and 1.7 D, respectively. The differences between C and CS were not significant. For both, astigmatism after cataract surgery did not quite return to pre-operative levels. Concerning the axis (weaker meridian) of corneal astigmatism, the C cases retained their pre-operative distribution, while the CS cases showed the classical shift towards against-rule astigmatism. Final corrected visual acuity was of the same order in the C and CS group. Due to frequent shifts, also of the axis, it is recommended by early (preliminary) glass prescription not to correct the astigmatism, but to give only the best spherical correction.", "contents": "Corneal astigmatism after cataract extraction. A comparison of corneal and corneoscleral incisions. Corneal astigmatism after cataract surgery by way of corneal incision (C, n = 62) and corneo-scleral incision (CS, n = 61) was followed for six months. Corneal incisions were closed by continuous nylon 10--0 (7--25 loops, median 14). Corneo-scleral incisions were sutured with single knots (2--10, median value 5). Keratometric results in the C and CS groups are compared. Concerning the degree of astigmatism, pre-operative median values were 0.5 and 0.7 D, respectively. After one week they were 4.5 and 3.0 D; after two weeks 3.3 and 3.0 D; after four months 3.0 and 2.0 D; after six months (final status) 1.5 and 1.7 D, respectively. The differences between C and CS were not significant. For both, astigmatism after cataract surgery did not quite return to pre-operative levels. Concerning the axis (weaker meridian) of corneal astigmatism, the C cases retained their pre-operative distribution, while the CS cases showed the classical shift towards against-rule astigmatism. Final corrected visual acuity was of the same order in the C and CS group. Due to frequent shifts, also of the axis, it is recommended by early (preliminary) glass prescription not to correct the astigmatism, but to give only the best spherical correction.", "PMID": 452884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10266", "title": "Tranexamic acid and corneal deturgescence.", "content": "Recent work has demonstrated decreased corneal thickness in patients with Fuch's dystrophy and in patients following cataract extraction who were given systemic acid. Although tranexamic acid is a known antifibrinolytic drug its mechanism in reducing corneal thickness is not known. This experiment demonstrated no increase in the rate of corneal deturgescence of swollen rabbit corneas in the specular microscope when they were perfused for three h with 1 mM or 10 mM tranexamic acid. Pre-treatment of rabbits with intravenous tranexamic acid for three days and subsequent perfusion of corneas with tranexamic acid 10 mM also did not increase the rate of corneal deturgescence when compared with controls.", "contents": "Tranexamic acid and corneal deturgescence. Recent work has demonstrated decreased corneal thickness in patients with Fuch's dystrophy and in patients following cataract extraction who were given systemic acid. Although tranexamic acid is a known antifibrinolytic drug its mechanism in reducing corneal thickness is not known. This experiment demonstrated no increase in the rate of corneal deturgescence of swollen rabbit corneas in the specular microscope when they were perfused for three h with 1 mM or 10 mM tranexamic acid. Pre-treatment of rabbits with intravenous tranexamic acid for three days and subsequent perfusion of corneas with tranexamic acid 10 mM also did not increase the rate of corneal deturgescence when compared with controls.", "PMID": 452885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10267", "title": "Primary localized orbital amyloidosis.", "content": "The present paper reports a case of primary localized amyloid tumour of the orbit in a 68-year-old woman in whom myasthenia gravis had been diagnosed 33 years before. An amyloid tumour with this location is very rare, and up to the present time only 13 cases have been recorded in the literature. The reported orbital amyloid tumour revealed a considerable accumulation of activity at orbital scintigraphy with 99Tc(m) and, compared with the conventional pseudotumours, a distinct rise in density at computed tomography after intravenous infusion of iodized contrast medium.", "contents": "Primary localized orbital amyloidosis. The present paper reports a case of primary localized amyloid tumour of the orbit in a 68-year-old woman in whom myasthenia gravis had been diagnosed 33 years before. An amyloid tumour with this location is very rare, and up to the present time only 13 cases have been recorded in the literature. The reported orbital amyloid tumour revealed a considerable accumulation of activity at orbital scintigraphy with 99Tc(m) and, compared with the conventional pseudotumours, a distinct rise in density at computed tomography after intravenous infusion of iodized contrast medium.", "PMID": 452886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10268", "title": "The ultrastructure of the normal conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. III. The bulbar zone, the zone of the fornix and the supranodular zone.", "content": "Three adjacent zones of the conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig are described: the three-layered bulbar zone with cuboidal superficial cells, the three-layered zone of the fornix with cylindrical superficial cells, and the four- to five-layered supranodular zone characterized by close association with a lymphoid nodule. The similarities and differences in the general morphology of the epithelium and in the ultrastructural features of the cells, as compared to those of the perilimbal zone, are pointed out. The functional significance of atypical mitochondria found in certain cells of the bulbar and fornical zones is commented upon. Particular attention is paid to the supranodular zone, containing a large number of intraepithelially located lymphocytes. The possible role of an epithelium associated with subepithelial lymphoid tissue in the immune defense is discussed.", "contents": "The ultrastructure of the normal conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. III. The bulbar zone, the zone of the fornix and the supranodular zone. Three adjacent zones of the conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig are described: the three-layered bulbar zone with cuboidal superficial cells, the three-layered zone of the fornix with cylindrical superficial cells, and the four- to five-layered supranodular zone characterized by close association with a lymphoid nodule. The similarities and differences in the general morphology of the epithelium and in the ultrastructural features of the cells, as compared to those of the perilimbal zone, are pointed out. The functional significance of atypical mitochondria found in certain cells of the bulbar and fornical zones is commented upon. Particular attention is paid to the supranodular zone, containing a large number of intraepithelially located lymphocytes. The possible role of an epithelium associated with subepithelial lymphoid tissue in the immune defense is discussed.", "PMID": 452887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10269", "title": "The ultrastructure of the normal conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. IV. The palpebral and the perimarginal zones.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the palpebral and perimarginal zones is described and compared to that of the other zones of the conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. The palpebral zone was characterized by frequently occurring goblet cells, the structure and function of which are discussed. The transition in the perimarginal zone from a four-layered epithelium with cylindrical superficial cells in the palpebral zone to a multilayered, squamous epithelium towards the lid margin is shown.", "contents": "The ultrastructure of the normal conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. IV. The palpebral and the perimarginal zones. The ultrastructure of the palpebral and perimarginal zones is described and compared to that of the other zones of the conjunctival epithelium of the guinea pig. The palpebral zone was characterized by frequently occurring goblet cells, the structure and function of which are discussed. The transition in the perimarginal zone from a four-layered epithelium with cylindrical superficial cells in the palpebral zone to a multilayered, squamous epithelium towards the lid margin is shown.", "PMID": 452888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10270", "title": "Heterotopic gastric glands in the submucosa of the stomach.", "content": "The submucosal heterotopic gastric glands were found in 160 cases (10.7%) of 1500 resected stomachs; 15% in gastric ulcer, 9.9% in gastric carcinoma, 4% in duodenal ulcer and 11% in chronic gastritis. The heterotopic glands were usually found in the distal half of the stomach, diffusely or localized. Macroscopic submucosal tumor was found in 9 (5%) of 160 cases. Although the heterotopic glands were found with an intimate relation to the repeated mucosal damage and subsequent intestinal metaplasia, they had no specific relation to gastric carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Heterotopic gastric glands in the submucosa of the stomach. The submucosal heterotopic gastric glands were found in 160 cases (10.7%) of 1500 resected stomachs; 15% in gastric ulcer, 9.9% in gastric carcinoma, 4% in duodenal ulcer and 11% in chronic gastritis. The heterotopic glands were usually found in the distal half of the stomach, diffusely or localized. Macroscopic submucosal tumor was found in 9 (5%) of 160 cases. Although the heterotopic glands were found with an intimate relation to the repeated mucosal damage and subsequent intestinal metaplasia, they had no specific relation to gastric carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 452898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10271", "title": "The effect of a low potassium diet on the glomerular zone of the adrenal cortex of rats.", "content": "Rats were fed on low potassium diets in order to observe the effect of dietary low potassium on the adrenal cortex. The authors clarified morphological changes of the hypofunctional glomerular zone and compared these changes with those of the hyperfunctional glomerular zone. Three weeks after or 2 months after the start of a low potassium diet, slight narrowing of the glomerular zone of the adrenal cortex was observed followed by miniaturization of cells, presence of binuclear cells and an increase of lipid with enlarged lipid drops. Electron microscope mainly disclosed changes of mitochondrial cristae consisting of markedly reduced, enlarged and irregularly dilated cristae with shortening or elongation. Granules appeared in mitochondria. Lysosomes or dense bodies were enlarged. The Golgi's apparatus was atrophied but endoplasmic reticulum did not show remarkable changes. These changes were directly opposite to those of the hyperfunctional glomerular zone noted after a pottasium load or seen in sodium deficiency. Consequently, these changes were considered to be the changes of the hypofunctional glomerular zone associated with decrease of aldosterone production.", "contents": "The effect of a low potassium diet on the glomerular zone of the adrenal cortex of rats. Rats were fed on low potassium diets in order to observe the effect of dietary low potassium on the adrenal cortex. The authors clarified morphological changes of the hypofunctional glomerular zone and compared these changes with those of the hyperfunctional glomerular zone. Three weeks after or 2 months after the start of a low potassium diet, slight narrowing of the glomerular zone of the adrenal cortex was observed followed by miniaturization of cells, presence of binuclear cells and an increase of lipid with enlarged lipid drops. Electron microscope mainly disclosed changes of mitochondrial cristae consisting of markedly reduced, enlarged and irregularly dilated cristae with shortening or elongation. Granules appeared in mitochondria. Lysosomes or dense bodies were enlarged. The Golgi's apparatus was atrophied but endoplasmic reticulum did not show remarkable changes. These changes were directly opposite to those of the hyperfunctional glomerular zone noted after a pottasium load or seen in sodium deficiency. Consequently, these changes were considered to be the changes of the hypofunctional glomerular zone associated with decrease of aldosterone production.", "PMID": 452899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10272", "title": "Primary malignant peripheral nerve tumors (malignant schwannomas). A clinicopathologic and electron microscopic study.", "content": "A clinicopath-logic and electron microscopic study was performed on 35 cases of primary malignant peripheral nerve tumors, among which 12 developed in association with neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease) and further 11 in keeping with anatomically discernible nerves in patients without neurofibromatosis. Depending upon the histologically predominant pattern, these tumors were subdivided into three groups: 23 compact spindle cell, 6 myxoid, and 6 epithelioid varieties of the tumor. The common ultrastructures in three of the 35 tumors were as follows: 1) The cell membranes manifested characteristic infoldings and lamellar configuation. 2) The tumor cell surfaces were coated by occasional basal lamina or homogeneously electron-dense membranous material. 3) The cytoplasms contained well-developed organelles and a few neurosecretory-type granules. Differential points from other soft-tissue sarcomas were briefly discussed on the histologic basis.", "contents": "Primary malignant peripheral nerve tumors (malignant schwannomas). A clinicopathologic and electron microscopic study. A clinicopath-logic and electron microscopic study was performed on 35 cases of primary malignant peripheral nerve tumors, among which 12 developed in association with neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease) and further 11 in keeping with anatomically discernible nerves in patients without neurofibromatosis. Depending upon the histologically predominant pattern, these tumors were subdivided into three groups: 23 compact spindle cell, 6 myxoid, and 6 epithelioid varieties of the tumor. The common ultrastructures in three of the 35 tumors were as follows: 1) The cell membranes manifested characteristic infoldings and lamellar configuation. 2) The tumor cell surfaces were coated by occasional basal lamina or homogeneously electron-dense membranous material. 3) The cytoplasms contained well-developed organelles and a few neurosecretory-type granules. Differential points from other soft-tissue sarcomas were briefly discussed on the histologic basis.", "PMID": 452900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10273", "title": "Infantile and adult fibrosarcomas of the soft tissues.", "content": "Histologic sections of 68 soft-tissue sarcomas initially diagnosed as fibrosarcoma were reviewed, and 36 were excluded because of revised diagnosis. The tumors from the remaining 32 patients were analyzed clinicopathologically, and were classifed into two types; the adult type (22 cases) and the infantile type (10 cases). The adult type fibrosarcoma occurred in adults aged 25 to 67 years and consisted of spindle-shaped fibroblastic cells which formed interlacing bundles accompanied by variable amounts of collagen or reticulin fibers. The infantile fibrosarcoma affected children below the age of seven years in this series and was characterized by proliferation of immature fibroblasts forming indistinct bundles, frequently exhibiting areas of an angiosarcoma-like pattern and cavernous blood vessels. The authors expressed the view that infantile fibrosarcoma should be separated from adult fibrosarcoma, because between these two types of fibrosarcoma there were marked differences in the histologic feature as well as in the age, sex and anatomical distributions.", "contents": "Infantile and adult fibrosarcomas of the soft tissues. Histologic sections of 68 soft-tissue sarcomas initially diagnosed as fibrosarcoma were reviewed, and 36 were excluded because of revised diagnosis. The tumors from the remaining 32 patients were analyzed clinicopathologically, and were classifed into two types; the adult type (22 cases) and the infantile type (10 cases). The adult type fibrosarcoma occurred in adults aged 25 to 67 years and consisted of spindle-shaped fibroblastic cells which formed interlacing bundles accompanied by variable amounts of collagen or reticulin fibers. The infantile fibrosarcoma affected children below the age of seven years in this series and was characterized by proliferation of immature fibroblasts forming indistinct bundles, frequently exhibiting areas of an angiosarcoma-like pattern and cavernous blood vessels. The authors expressed the view that infantile fibrosarcoma should be separated from adult fibrosarcoma, because between these two types of fibrosarcoma there were marked differences in the histologic feature as well as in the age, sex and anatomical distributions.", "PMID": 452901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10274", "title": "Thromboplastic and fibrinolytic activities in various organs of congenitally athymic nude mice.", "content": "Thromboplastic and fibrinolytic activities in various organs of congenitally athymic nude mice were estimated. These activities varied from one organ to another and the organs were divided into six groups of possible combinations of these activities. The lung revealed high thromboplastic and high fibrinolytic activities, while the liver showed low thromboplastic and low fibrinolytic activities. The pattern of distribution of these activities in various organs of nude mice was almost similar to that of rats and mice with normal thymus. No plasmin activity was found in all organs.", "contents": "Thromboplastic and fibrinolytic activities in various organs of congenitally athymic nude mice. Thromboplastic and fibrinolytic activities in various organs of congenitally athymic nude mice were estimated. These activities varied from one organ to another and the organs were divided into six groups of possible combinations of these activities. The lung revealed high thromboplastic and high fibrinolytic activities, while the liver showed low thromboplastic and low fibrinolytic activities. The pattern of distribution of these activities in various organs of nude mice was almost similar to that of rats and mice with normal thymus. No plasmin activity was found in all organs.", "PMID": 452902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10275", "title": "Histopathological studies on experimentally induced pulmonary, pleural and peritoneal neoplasms in mice by intraperitoneal injection of chrysotile asbestos and N-methyl-N-nitrosourethane.", "content": "The cocarcinogenic effects of asbestos are presented. In lung carcinomas induced in mice, the number of carcinomas and the time of detection of the first carcinoma per tumor-bearing animals were greater and faster in the group with chrysotile plus MNU than either chrysotile or MNU alone. This suggested that chrysotile asbestos had a promoting or cocarcinogenic effect on some carcinogens in the respiratory tract. In the group treated with chryotile alone, a tumor was found in the right pleural cavity at 15 months. This tumor microscopically was similar to the biphasic form of the human diffuse mesothelioma. Microvilli, basement membrane, and junctional apparatus were seen by electron microscope, but other cytoplasmic organelles of the tumor cells were relatively scanty. Two peritoneal tumors developed in gastric and intestinal serosa at 11 and 12 months. Light and electron microscopic studies suggested that the tumors were probably myosarcomas or fibrosarcoms.", "contents": "Histopathological studies on experimentally induced pulmonary, pleural and peritoneal neoplasms in mice by intraperitoneal injection of chrysotile asbestos and N-methyl-N-nitrosourethane. The cocarcinogenic effects of asbestos are presented. In lung carcinomas induced in mice, the number of carcinomas and the time of detection of the first carcinoma per tumor-bearing animals were greater and faster in the group with chrysotile plus MNU than either chrysotile or MNU alone. This suggested that chrysotile asbestos had a promoting or cocarcinogenic effect on some carcinogens in the respiratory tract. In the group treated with chryotile alone, a tumor was found in the right pleural cavity at 15 months. This tumor microscopically was similar to the biphasic form of the human diffuse mesothelioma. Microvilli, basement membrane, and junctional apparatus were seen by electron microscope, but other cytoplasmic organelles of the tumor cells were relatively scanty. Two peritoneal tumors developed in gastric and intestinal serosa at 11 and 12 months. Light and electron microscopic studies suggested that the tumors were probably myosarcomas or fibrosarcoms.", "PMID": 452903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10276", "title": "Central fibrosarcoma of bone. Report of a case.", "content": "A case of a 46-year-old Japanese male having fibrosarcoma of bone is reported. The tumor developed in the proximal metaphysis of the left femur. During the three years following onset of the disease with symptoms of local pain and mass, the patient was operated on three times (curettage and bone graft, curettage and bone graft with Jwett's nail fixation and disarticulation). The tumor was found to be an intraosseous translucent lesion on x-ray examiation. Histologically, the tumor consisted of compact or loose, atypical spindle cells, producing abundant collagen-fibers without any osteoid, bony or cartilage formation. From the clinical and pathological findings, this case is thought to be a typical central fibrosarcoma of bone.", "contents": "Central fibrosarcoma of bone. Report of a case. A case of a 46-year-old Japanese male having fibrosarcoma of bone is reported. The tumor developed in the proximal metaphysis of the left femur. During the three years following onset of the disease with symptoms of local pain and mass, the patient was operated on three times (curettage and bone graft, curettage and bone graft with Jwett's nail fixation and disarticulation). The tumor was found to be an intraosseous translucent lesion on x-ray examiation. Histologically, the tumor consisted of compact or loose, atypical spindle cells, producing abundant collagen-fibers without any osteoid, bony or cartilage formation. From the clinical and pathological findings, this case is thought to be a typical central fibrosarcoma of bone.", "PMID": 452904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10277", "title": "Alterations of the thymus and peripheral lymphoid tissues in fatal measles. A review of 14 autopsy cases.", "content": "As a result of re-examining 14 autopsy cases of fatal measles, neither aplastic nor hypoplastic thymuses were found even in a case with giant cell pneumonia, but there were degenerative and/or necrotic changes with giant cells mostly in the thymus and less in the peripheral lymphoid organs such as spleen, lymph nodes, Peyer's patches and tonsils. This damage of the lymphoid system was associated with the occurrence of complications, particularly of giant cell pneumonia and encephalitis. The lymphoid cell damage, which might be primarily due to virulence of the infected measles virus, seemed to prolong the viremia. Involvement of viremia in the process of complication is discussed.", "contents": "Alterations of the thymus and peripheral lymphoid tissues in fatal measles. A review of 14 autopsy cases. As a result of re-examining 14 autopsy cases of fatal measles, neither aplastic nor hypoplastic thymuses were found even in a case with giant cell pneumonia, but there were degenerative and/or necrotic changes with giant cells mostly in the thymus and less in the peripheral lymphoid organs such as spleen, lymph nodes, Peyer's patches and tonsils. This damage of the lymphoid system was associated with the occurrence of complications, particularly of giant cell pneumonia and encephalitis. The lymphoid cell damage, which might be primarily due to virulence of the infected measles virus, seemed to prolong the viremia. Involvement of viremia in the process of complication is discussed.", "PMID": 452905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10278", "title": "Progesterone effects on the evolution of myometrial activity in vivo in the non-pregnant rabbit.", "content": "In order to study the influence of progesterone on the myometrial activity ovarian secretion of progesterone was stimulated by intravenous injection of human chorion gonadotrophin (HCG, 75 IU) in 9 nonpregnant rabbits. 4 rabbits, used as controls, were given only saline. Plasma progesterone concentration in blood samples taken at frequent intervals (2-4 h) during the recording was measured by radioimmunoassay. In the controls, the myometrial activity and the plasma levels of progesterone did not change. After 1 h of HCG administration the amplitude of contraction began to decrease and the frequency began to increase after 3 h. After about 5 h the changes in amplitude and frequency were generally fully developed. This pattern of myometrial activity persisted throughout the recording period (12 h) and was also present in recordings made after 24 and 48 h of HCG injection. A maximal increase in plasma progesterone concentration (5.0 ng/ml) had already occurred by 2 h after the HCG injection and gradually decreased thereafter. It is concluded that an elevation in the level of progesterone in non-pregnant rabbits resulting from increased ovarian output (through HCG) has a pronounced and immediate depressing effect on the character of myometrial activity which is indicative of a shift from nonpregnant to pregnant type.", "contents": "Progesterone effects on the evolution of myometrial activity in vivo in the non-pregnant rabbit. In order to study the influence of progesterone on the myometrial activity ovarian secretion of progesterone was stimulated by intravenous injection of human chorion gonadotrophin (HCG, 75 IU) in 9 nonpregnant rabbits. 4 rabbits, used as controls, were given only saline. Plasma progesterone concentration in blood samples taken at frequent intervals (2-4 h) during the recording was measured by radioimmunoassay. In the controls, the myometrial activity and the plasma levels of progesterone did not change. After 1 h of HCG administration the amplitude of contraction began to decrease and the frequency began to increase after 3 h. After about 5 h the changes in amplitude and frequency were generally fully developed. This pattern of myometrial activity persisted throughout the recording period (12 h) and was also present in recordings made after 24 and 48 h of HCG injection. A maximal increase in plasma progesterone concentration (5.0 ng/ml) had already occurred by 2 h after the HCG injection and gradually decreased thereafter. It is concluded that an elevation in the level of progesterone in non-pregnant rabbits resulting from increased ovarian output (through HCG) has a pronounced and immediate depressing effect on the character of myometrial activity which is indicative of a shift from nonpregnant to pregnant type.", "PMID": 452919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10279", "title": "Pregnancy-induced alterations in the turnover rate of 3H-noradrenaline formed from 3H-tyrosine in guinea-pig uterus.", "content": "The rate of noradrenaline (NA) turnover in the non-pregnant and pregnant guinea-pig uterus was determined after the administration of the labelled precursor, tyrosine. Endogenous NA was determined fluorimetrically. In non-pregnant animals the turnover of 3H-NA was slower in the uterine horns (t1/2 = 10 h) and cervix (t1/2 = 9 h) than in the reference organ, heart (t1/2 = 6 h). During pregnancy (60-65 days post coitum) endogenous NA in the heart increased in pace with tissue weight gain; yet, in the uterus there was a drastic reduction, down to zero levels. 3H-NA turnover increased significantly in the cervix, no 3H-NA formation remained in the uterine horn (a situation resembling that following 6-hydroxydopamine induced sympathectomy of non-pregnant animals), and the turnover was unaltered in the heart. The observations confirm the general idea, illustrated by the results in the heart, of a functional adaptation with a constant neuron-target relationship during increased physiological demands. They also confirm that a very peculiar and complex neuron-target relationship develops in the uterus during pregnancy--involving functional and structural denervation of the adrenergic nerve plexus in the uterine horn, whereas an increased activation might explain the changes in neuronal NA and its turnover in the cervix.", "contents": "Pregnancy-induced alterations in the turnover rate of 3H-noradrenaline formed from 3H-tyrosine in guinea-pig uterus. The rate of noradrenaline (NA) turnover in the non-pregnant and pregnant guinea-pig uterus was determined after the administration of the labelled precursor, tyrosine. Endogenous NA was determined fluorimetrically. In non-pregnant animals the turnover of 3H-NA was slower in the uterine horns (t1/2 = 10 h) and cervix (t1/2 = 9 h) than in the reference organ, heart (t1/2 = 6 h). During pregnancy (60-65 days post coitum) endogenous NA in the heart increased in pace with tissue weight gain; yet, in the uterus there was a drastic reduction, down to zero levels. 3H-NA turnover increased significantly in the cervix, no 3H-NA formation remained in the uterine horn (a situation resembling that following 6-hydroxydopamine induced sympathectomy of non-pregnant animals), and the turnover was unaltered in the heart. The observations confirm the general idea, illustrated by the results in the heart, of a functional adaptation with a constant neuron-target relationship during increased physiological demands. They also confirm that a very peculiar and complex neuron-target relationship develops in the uterus during pregnancy--involving functional and structural denervation of the adrenergic nerve plexus in the uterine horn, whereas an increased activation might explain the changes in neuronal NA and its turnover in the cervix.", "PMID": 452920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10280", "title": "Effects of indomethacin on regional blood flow in conscious rabbits--a microsphere study.", "content": "In an attempt to reveal the importance of prostaglandins in the control of regional blood flow 20 mg/kg b.wt. indomethacin was given i.v. in conscious resting rabbits. Regional blood flow determinations were made before and 20 min after the injection using the labelled microsphere technique. The blood flow in the stomach wall was reduced by 0.75 +/- 0.17 g . min-1 . g-1 from a level of 1.64 +/- 0.24 g . min-1g-1. In jejunum the corresponding figures were 0.44 +/- 0.12 and 1.26 +/- 0.17 and in the brain 0.29 +/- 0.10 and 1.24 +/- 0.10. The blood flow in the liver via the hepatic artery increased by 0.20 +/- 0.02 g . min-1 . g-1 from a level of 0.13 +/- 0.02 g . min-1 . g-1. In the retina there was a reduction in blood flow by 2.75 +/- 1.03 mg . min-1 from a starting level of 15.1 +/- 2.3 mg . min-1. In a number of other tissues investigated there were no significant effects of the drug. The results suggest that under resting conditions prostaglandins play a role in the control of blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract, the brain and the retina--tissues which are likely to be rather active under such conditions.", "contents": "Effects of indomethacin on regional blood flow in conscious rabbits--a microsphere study. In an attempt to reveal the importance of prostaglandins in the control of regional blood flow 20 mg/kg b.wt. indomethacin was given i.v. in conscious resting rabbits. Regional blood flow determinations were made before and 20 min after the injection using the labelled microsphere technique. The blood flow in the stomach wall was reduced by 0.75 +/- 0.17 g . min-1 . g-1 from a level of 1.64 +/- 0.24 g . min-1g-1. In jejunum the corresponding figures were 0.44 +/- 0.12 and 1.26 +/- 0.17 and in the brain 0.29 +/- 0.10 and 1.24 +/- 0.10. The blood flow in the liver via the hepatic artery increased by 0.20 +/- 0.02 g . min-1 . g-1 from a level of 0.13 +/- 0.02 g . min-1 . g-1. In the retina there was a reduction in blood flow by 2.75 +/- 1.03 mg . min-1 from a starting level of 15.1 +/- 2.3 mg . min-1. In a number of other tissues investigated there were no significant effects of the drug. The results suggest that under resting conditions prostaglandins play a role in the control of blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract, the brain and the retina--tissues which are likely to be rather active under such conditions.", "PMID": 452921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10281", "title": "Studies on the enzymatic blood-brain barrier: quantitative measurements of DOPA decarboxylase in the wall of microvessels as related to the parenchyma in various CNS regions.", "content": "The presence of DOPA decarboxylase in cerebral microvessels (capillaries and venules) impedes the passage of circulating amine precursors into the brain. The relative amount of DOPA decarboxylase in this trapping mechanism as compared to the parenchyma per se was estimated in various CNS regions, measuring the formation of dopamine from L-DOPA in vitro or in vivo in two experimental models on rats and rabbits: (1) On the basis of the treatment with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor (carbidopa, which inhibits also microvascular DOPA decarboxylase in the CNS) it could be calculated that the enzyme in the microvessels of the caudate nucleus (rich in catecholamine nerve terminals), cerebellum (poor in catecholamine nerves), and spinal cord comprised 25, 91 and 79 per cent, respectively, of the total enzyme activity. (2) Measurement of dopamine formation in the spinal cord following transection at the midthoracic level (which causes degeneration of the catecholamine neurons caudal to the lesion since they are all descending) indicated that a similar fraction as found in the carbidopa model, 71%, of the total tissue decarboxylase activity resided in the microvessel walls. The results show that a considerable portion of tissue decarboxylase in the CNS is present in the microvessel walls, where it represents part of an enzymatic blood-brain barrier mechanism.", "contents": "Studies on the enzymatic blood-brain barrier: quantitative measurements of DOPA decarboxylase in the wall of microvessels as related to the parenchyma in various CNS regions. The presence of DOPA decarboxylase in cerebral microvessels (capillaries and venules) impedes the passage of circulating amine precursors into the brain. The relative amount of DOPA decarboxylase in this trapping mechanism as compared to the parenchyma per se was estimated in various CNS regions, measuring the formation of dopamine from L-DOPA in vitro or in vivo in two experimental models on rats and rabbits: (1) On the basis of the treatment with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor (carbidopa, which inhibits also microvascular DOPA decarboxylase in the CNS) it could be calculated that the enzyme in the microvessels of the caudate nucleus (rich in catecholamine nerve terminals), cerebellum (poor in catecholamine nerves), and spinal cord comprised 25, 91 and 79 per cent, respectively, of the total enzyme activity. (2) Measurement of dopamine formation in the spinal cord following transection at the midthoracic level (which causes degeneration of the catecholamine neurons caudal to the lesion since they are all descending) indicated that a similar fraction as found in the carbidopa model, 71%, of the total tissue decarboxylase activity resided in the microvessel walls. The results show that a considerable portion of tissue decarboxylase in the CNS is present in the microvessel walls, where it represents part of an enzymatic blood-brain barrier mechanism.", "PMID": 452922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10282", "title": "Effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide on blood flow, motility and fluid transport in the gastrointestinal tract of the cat.", "content": "The effect of close intraarterial infusions of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) on gastric motility, intestinal fluid transport and colonic motility were studied in the cat. Regional blood flow was also followed in all experiments. In the stomach VIP produced a gastric relaxation and a blood flow increase. The motility response was similar to that observed when eliciting the vago-vagal reflex relaxation by distending the esophagus. In the small intestine a hyperemia and a decrease of net water uptake was observed. When infusing small amounts of VIP a decrease of net water uptake was seen without any change of intestinal blood flow. Large amounts of VIP produced a transient secretory state in the small intestine. In the colon a hyperemia was seen immediately upon starting the infusion of the drug. After 2-3 min of infusion a contraction of the colon was apparent. The administration of atropine to the animal did not significantly affect any of the responses produced by VIP. The results are discussed in relation to VIP as a possible neurotransmitter in the gastrointestinal tract.", "contents": "Effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide on blood flow, motility and fluid transport in the gastrointestinal tract of the cat. The effect of close intraarterial infusions of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) on gastric motility, intestinal fluid transport and colonic motility were studied in the cat. Regional blood flow was also followed in all experiments. In the stomach VIP produced a gastric relaxation and a blood flow increase. The motility response was similar to that observed when eliciting the vago-vagal reflex relaxation by distending the esophagus. In the small intestine a hyperemia and a decrease of net water uptake was observed. When infusing small amounts of VIP a decrease of net water uptake was seen without any change of intestinal blood flow. Large amounts of VIP produced a transient secretory state in the small intestine. In the colon a hyperemia was seen immediately upon starting the infusion of the drug. After 2-3 min of infusion a contraction of the colon was apparent. The administration of atropine to the animal did not significantly affect any of the responses produced by VIP. The results are discussed in relation to VIP as a possible neurotransmitter in the gastrointestinal tract.", "PMID": 452923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10283", "title": "Prevention of protein extravasation in the brain by an anion transport inhibitor in acute experimental hypertension in rats.", "content": "Acute experimental hypertension induces protein leakage in the brain. The protein is thought to be, at least to a great extent, transported through the endothelial cells by pinocytosis. An anion transport inhibitor, 4 acetamido-4-isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid, markedly reduced adrenaline or bicuculline-induced leakage of 125IHSA and Evans blue-albumin in all areas of the rat brain. The preventive effect of dexamethasone was less pronounced and no effect was seen of haloperidol.", "contents": "Prevention of protein extravasation in the brain by an anion transport inhibitor in acute experimental hypertension in rats. Acute experimental hypertension induces protein leakage in the brain. The protein is thought to be, at least to a great extent, transported through the endothelial cells by pinocytosis. An anion transport inhibitor, 4 acetamido-4-isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid, markedly reduced adrenaline or bicuculline-induced leakage of 125IHSA and Evans blue-albumin in all areas of the rat brain. The preventive effect of dexamethasone was less pronounced and no effect was seen of haloperidol.", "PMID": 452924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10284", "title": "Infantile hepatic haemangioendothelioma. Angiographic considerations.", "content": "Angiographic abnormalities in infantile hepatic haemangioendothelioma are analysed on the basis of previos reports and on 3 new cases. It is emphasized that the high specificity of angiography of the hepatic artery should make other diagnostic procedures unnecessary.", "contents": "Infantile hepatic haemangioendothelioma. Angiographic considerations. Angiographic abnormalities in infantile hepatic haemangioendothelioma are analysed on the basis of previos reports and on 3 new cases. It is emphasized that the high specificity of angiography of the hepatic artery should make other diagnostic procedures unnecessary.", "PMID": 452929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10285", "title": "Ossification of femoral head in infancy. I. Normal standards.", "content": "Observations made in 455 Malm\u00f6 infants with assumedly normal ossification of the femoral heads were used for establishing reference standards for the age at onset of the ossification and for the size of the ossification centers according to sex and age.", "contents": "Ossification of femoral head in infancy. I. Normal standards. Observations made in 455 Malm\u00f6 infants with assumedly normal ossification of the femoral heads were used for establishing reference standards for the age at onset of the ossification and for the size of the ossification centers according to sex and age.", "PMID": 452930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10286", "title": "Hip joint instability after the neonatal period. II. The acetabular growth potential.", "content": "In 26 girls with idiopathic hip joint instability, diagnosed after the neonatal period, the acetabular angle is measured before and after treatment. A mathematical analysis of the acetabular growth potential in these hip joints and normal ones is presented. During treatment the monthly reduction of the acetabular angle is greater than in normal hip joints. The age limit for sole treatment in immobilisation without operative procedures is discussed.", "contents": "Hip joint instability after the neonatal period. II. The acetabular growth potential. In 26 girls with idiopathic hip joint instability, diagnosed after the neonatal period, the acetabular angle is measured before and after treatment. A mathematical analysis of the acetabular growth potential in these hip joints and normal ones is presented. During treatment the monthly reduction of the acetabular angle is greater than in normal hip joints. The age limit for sole treatment in immobilisation without operative procedures is discussed.", "PMID": 452931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10287", "title": "Triphalangism and pseudotriphalangism of the thumb in children.", "content": "In 10 children with altogether 17 malformed thumbs radiography revealed true triphalangism in 13 of the thumbs and pseudotriphalangism in the remaining 4. Two varieties of triphalangism were distinguished, and clinically significant morphologic variation was recognized also in pseudotriphalangism.", "contents": "Triphalangism and pseudotriphalangism of the thumb in children. In 10 children with altogether 17 malformed thumbs radiography revealed true triphalangism in 13 of the thumbs and pseudotriphalangism in the remaining 4. Two varieties of triphalangism were distinguished, and clinically significant morphologic variation was recognized also in pseudotriphalangism.", "PMID": 452932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10288", "title": "Radiology of the ear in mandibulo-facial dysostosis--Treacher Collins syndrome.", "content": "Deformities of the external and middle ear with conductive deafness are common in mandibulo-facial dysostosis but cochlear function is nearly always normal. Twelve patients with the typical appearance and characteristics of the lesion are described. All had some degree of atresia of attic and antrum with absent or deformed ossicles but 4 had external auditory meatuses of normal calibre. The characteristic tomographic appearances of the ear are described.", "contents": "Radiology of the ear in mandibulo-facial dysostosis--Treacher Collins syndrome. Deformities of the external and middle ear with conductive deafness are common in mandibulo-facial dysostosis but cochlear function is nearly always normal. Twelve patients with the typical appearance and characteristics of the lesion are described. All had some degree of atresia of attic and antrum with absent or deformed ossicles but 4 had external auditory meatuses of normal calibre. The characteristic tomographic appearances of the ear are described.", "PMID": 452933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10289", "title": "Vesicoureteric reflux and pyelonephritis. Long time effect on area of renal parenchyma.", "content": "The effect of gross vesicoureteric reflux in combination with urinary tract infection on the area of the renal parenchyma was analysed in 8, non-selected, girls during 3 to 6 years. A progressive significant decrease of the relative size of the kidneys with vesicoureteric reflux occurred as compared with that of kidneys with normal ureters. The decrease was mainly due to scars in the upper and lower poles. A positive correlation was found between the reduction of parenchyma and the number of episodes of pyelonephritis.", "contents": "Vesicoureteric reflux and pyelonephritis. Long time effect on area of renal parenchyma. The effect of gross vesicoureteric reflux in combination with urinary tract infection on the area of the renal parenchyma was analysed in 8, non-selected, girls during 3 to 6 years. A progressive significant decrease of the relative size of the kidneys with vesicoureteric reflux occurred as compared with that of kidneys with normal ureters. The decrease was mainly due to scars in the upper and lower poles. A positive correlation was found between the reduction of parenchyma and the number of episodes of pyelonephritis.", "PMID": 452934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10290", "title": "Acute hemiplegia of childhood.", "content": "Acute hemiplegia of childhood is briefly reviewed with examples of various etiologies. The role of brain scans in diagnosing and following children with this syndrome is emphasized. Cerebral angiography and computer tomography represent complementary examinations in the evaluation of these patients.", "contents": "Acute hemiplegia of childhood. Acute hemiplegia of childhood is briefly reviewed with examples of various etiologies. The role of brain scans in diagnosing and following children with this syndrome is emphasized. Cerebral angiography and computer tomography represent complementary examinations in the evaluation of these patients.", "PMID": 452935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10291", "title": "Computer tomography of the head in children. Technical aspects.", "content": "A modified routine for computer tomography of children, avoiding general anesthesia is discussed. The patients were sedated and examined in a supporting plastic cradle. Radiation doses to various parts of the body were measured during the scanning and the results confirm that the dose levels are within generally accepted limits.", "contents": "Computer tomography of the head in children. Technical aspects. A modified routine for computer tomography of children, avoiding general anesthesia is discussed. The patients were sedated and examined in a supporting plastic cradle. Radiation doses to various parts of the body were measured during the scanning and the results confirm that the dose levels are within generally accepted limits.", "PMID": 452936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10292", "title": "Fatal reactions to drugs. A 10-year material from the Swedish Adverse Drug Reaction Committee.", "content": "Drug-induced deaths (n = 274) in Sweden during a 10-year period have been analyzed. The incidence has been remarkably constant, with 25--30 reported cases per year. There is a marked increase with age in the incidence of fatal reactions, more so than for all drug reactions. Women consume more drugs than men and get more reactions, but not more fatal reactions. Anti-inflammatory drugs (antibiotics and sulfonamides) are responsible for 21% of the fatal reactions, followed by oral antidiabetics (9%), oral contraceptives (9%) and antiphlogistic drugs (8%). The blood and the bone marrow are the most susceptible organs, responsible for 40% of the fatal reactions, followed by thromboembolism (10%) and hepatocellular damage (9%). It is important to note that rapid changes have occurred with regard to responsible drugs as well as to the types of adverse reactions encountered.", "contents": "Fatal reactions to drugs. A 10-year material from the Swedish Adverse Drug Reaction Committee. Drug-induced deaths (n = 274) in Sweden during a 10-year period have been analyzed. The incidence has been remarkably constant, with 25--30 reported cases per year. There is a marked increase with age in the incidence of fatal reactions, more so than for all drug reactions. Women consume more drugs than men and get more reactions, but not more fatal reactions. Anti-inflammatory drugs (antibiotics and sulfonamides) are responsible for 21% of the fatal reactions, followed by oral antidiabetics (9%), oral contraceptives (9%) and antiphlogistic drugs (8%). The blood and the bone marrow are the most susceptible organs, responsible for 40% of the fatal reactions, followed by thromboembolism (10%) and hepatocellular damage (9%). It is important to note that rapid changes have occurred with regard to responsible drugs as well as to the types of adverse reactions encountered.", "PMID": 452938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10293", "title": "Drug-induced blood dyscrasias. A ten-year material from the Swedish Adverse Drug Reaction Committee.", "content": "Drug-induced dyscrasias (agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia) in Sweden during a 10-year period (1966-75) have been analyzed. The overall occurrence is remarkably constant, although marked changes have occurred with regard to offending drugs. Drug-induced thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis are about twice as common as hemolytic anemia, which in turn is twice as common as aplastic anemia. There is a marked increase with age in the incidence of all drug-induced cytopenias. Women predominate and make up close to 70% of the material. With regard to responsible drugs, the most remarkable finding is the high frequency with which sulfonamides appear as responsible for all types of drug-induced cytopenia.", "contents": "Drug-induced blood dyscrasias. A ten-year material from the Swedish Adverse Drug Reaction Committee. Drug-induced dyscrasias (agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia) in Sweden during a 10-year period (1966-75) have been analyzed. The overall occurrence is remarkably constant, although marked changes have occurred with regard to offending drugs. Drug-induced thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis are about twice as common as hemolytic anemia, which in turn is twice as common as aplastic anemia. There is a marked increase with age in the incidence of all drug-induced cytopenias. Women predominate and make up close to 70% of the material. With regard to responsible drugs, the most remarkable finding is the high frequency with which sulfonamides appear as responsible for all types of drug-induced cytopenia.", "PMID": 452939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10294", "title": "Hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis in self-poisoning with paracetamol and salicylates. Report of a case.", "content": "A young women ingested large amounts of different analgesics, mainly salicylate and paracetamol. On admission about 17 hours later, clearly toxic serum levels of both drugs were demonstrated. She was comatose with respiratory failure for 5 days. During the first day there was a period of several hours of therapy-resistant hyperthermia. A severe bleeding tendency was probably related to profound coagulation defects. Persistingly elevated serum levels of ASAT and ALAT for two weeks were presumably caused by a toxic effect of paracetamol on the liver. When consciousness was regained, widespread pareses of skeletal muscles, predominantly of the lower limbs, were demonstrated. These were related to extensive rhabdomyolysis as evidenced by extremely elevated serums levels of CPK for 6 weeks, and by muscle necrosis in biopsy specimens. There was a gradual improvement, but walking disturbances were still present after one year. The hyperthermia was probably related to the cerebral effects of salicylates or the combination of multiple drugs. The rhabdomyolysis might be related to a deleterious effect of hyperthermia on the muscles or to an effect of paracetamol on the skeletal muscles similar to that which might occur in the myocardium, or to a combination of these mechanisms.", "contents": "Hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis in self-poisoning with paracetamol and salicylates. Report of a case. A young women ingested large amounts of different analgesics, mainly salicylate and paracetamol. On admission about 17 hours later, clearly toxic serum levels of both drugs were demonstrated. She was comatose with respiratory failure for 5 days. During the first day there was a period of several hours of therapy-resistant hyperthermia. A severe bleeding tendency was probably related to profound coagulation defects. Persistingly elevated serum levels of ASAT and ALAT for two weeks were presumably caused by a toxic effect of paracetamol on the liver. When consciousness was regained, widespread pareses of skeletal muscles, predominantly of the lower limbs, were demonstrated. These were related to extensive rhabdomyolysis as evidenced by extremely elevated serums levels of CPK for 6 weeks, and by muscle necrosis in biopsy specimens. There was a gradual improvement, but walking disturbances were still present after one year. The hyperthermia was probably related to the cerebral effects of salicylates or the combination of multiple drugs. The rhabdomyolysis might be related to a deleterious effect of hyperthermia on the muscles or to an effect of paracetamol on the skeletal muscles similar to that which might occur in the myocardium, or to a combination of these mechanisms.", "PMID": 452940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10295", "title": "Blood pressure reduction and vascular adaptation. A study on long-term effects of treatment with mefruside or atenolol.", "content": "Systemic BP reduction, calf blood flow and vascular resistance in the calf were determined in forty-two previously untreated patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension (WHO I-WHO II) before and after 6 weeks, 6 months and 18 months of BP-lowering treatment with mefruside (25 mg daily) or atenolol (100--400 mg daily). Blood flow was determined with venous occlusion plethysmography using a mercury-in-rubber strain gauge technique in the supine patient. Auscultatory BP was measured on the right arm simultaneously with the flow determinations and resistance was calculated from the flow and pressure. BP was reduced significantly and to the same extent by the two drugs. In the atenolol group a rise in resting resistance and a corresponding fall in resting blood flow was seen initially. These changes were entirely normalized during continued treatment for 18 months. In the mefruside group no significant haemodynamic changes during treatment were observed at rest apart from the BP fall. None of the drugs reduced resistance at \"maximal\" vasodilatation, indicating that no regress of the hypertensive structural changes of the calf blood vessels had taken place.", "contents": "Blood pressure reduction and vascular adaptation. A study on long-term effects of treatment with mefruside or atenolol. Systemic BP reduction, calf blood flow and vascular resistance in the calf were determined in forty-two previously untreated patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension (WHO I-WHO II) before and after 6 weeks, 6 months and 18 months of BP-lowering treatment with mefruside (25 mg daily) or atenolol (100--400 mg daily). Blood flow was determined with venous occlusion plethysmography using a mercury-in-rubber strain gauge technique in the supine patient. Auscultatory BP was measured on the right arm simultaneously with the flow determinations and resistance was calculated from the flow and pressure. BP was reduced significantly and to the same extent by the two drugs. In the atenolol group a rise in resting resistance and a corresponding fall in resting blood flow was seen initially. These changes were entirely normalized during continued treatment for 18 months. In the mefruside group no significant haemodynamic changes during treatment were observed at rest apart from the BP fall. None of the drugs reduced resistance at \"maximal\" vasodilatation, indicating that no regress of the hypertensive structural changes of the calf blood vessels had taken place.", "PMID": 452941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10296", "title": "Mortality and morbidity during 13.5 years' follow-up in relation to blood pressure. The study of men born in 1913.", "content": "A total of 973 50-year-old men, randomly selected from the general population in G\u00f6teborg, Sweden, were invited to a survey in 1963. Altogether 855 men (88%) participated. They have been followed up for 13.5 years, and this report presents mortality and morbidity during this time in relation to BP at the time of the initial examination. BP was strongly associated with mortality regardless of its cause. This was due to a close relation of BP to mortality from ischaemic heart disease and a weak but significant relation to mortality from cancer. BP was also strongly related to morbidity from myocardial infarction, stroke and angina pectoris, showed a tendency towards relation to morbidity from intermittent claudication and kidney stone, and was negatively related to morbidity from neoplasm for survivors. BP was also related to pension but not to sick leave. There is no indication of a decreasing importance of BP as a risk factor in this age period.", "contents": "Mortality and morbidity during 13.5 years' follow-up in relation to blood pressure. The study of men born in 1913. A total of 973 50-year-old men, randomly selected from the general population in G\u00f6teborg, Sweden, were invited to a survey in 1963. Altogether 855 men (88%) participated. They have been followed up for 13.5 years, and this report presents mortality and morbidity during this time in relation to BP at the time of the initial examination. BP was strongly associated with mortality regardless of its cause. This was due to a close relation of BP to mortality from ischaemic heart disease and a weak but significant relation to mortality from cancer. BP was also strongly related to morbidity from myocardial infarction, stroke and angina pectoris, showed a tendency towards relation to morbidity from intermittent claudication and kidney stone, and was negatively related to morbidity from neoplasm for survivors. BP was also related to pension but not to sick leave. There is no indication of a decreasing importance of BP as a risk factor in this age period.", "PMID": 452942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10297", "title": "Platelet survival and platelet production in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Thrombokinetic studies were carried out on 26 consecutive patients with myocardial infarction (MI) admitted to a coronary care unit in the acute stage during a two-month period. The results were compared with those of an age-matched control group. In the MI patients, platelet mean life-span was 5.0 +/- 0.3 days and significantly shorter (p greater than 0.01) than in the controls (6.4 +/- 0.4 days). The mean platelet production rate for the patients with MI was significantly higher (p greater than 0.005) than for the controls. On the basis of results reported by others as well as the present data, it is suggested that during the acute phase of MI there is no additional measurable reduction in platelet survival above that observed in chronic coronary artery disease.", "contents": "Platelet survival and platelet production in acute myocardial infarction. Thrombokinetic studies were carried out on 26 consecutive patients with myocardial infarction (MI) admitted to a coronary care unit in the acute stage during a two-month period. The results were compared with those of an age-matched control group. In the MI patients, platelet mean life-span was 5.0 +/- 0.3 days and significantly shorter (p greater than 0.01) than in the controls (6.4 +/- 0.4 days). The mean platelet production rate for the patients with MI was significantly higher (p greater than 0.005) than for the controls. On the basis of results reported by others as well as the present data, it is suggested that during the acute phase of MI there is no additional measurable reduction in platelet survival above that observed in chronic coronary artery disease.", "PMID": 452944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10298", "title": "Peripheral hemodynamics in assisted circulation with intra-aortic balloon pumping in patients with cardiogenic shock.", "content": "Seven patients treated for cardiogenic shock were studied with and without intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). Calf and forearm blood flows were determined with a Dohn plethysmograph and arterial pressures were registered intra-arterially and in the great toe and thumb with the cuff method. During IABP, an augmented flow was registered in the arms and legs and accurate arterial BPs could also be determined from the extremities. The findings demonstrate a beneficial effect of IABP on peripheral flow, expecially in patients who could be weaned off the pump.", "contents": "Peripheral hemodynamics in assisted circulation with intra-aortic balloon pumping in patients with cardiogenic shock. Seven patients treated for cardiogenic shock were studied with and without intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). Calf and forearm blood flows were determined with a Dohn plethysmograph and arterial pressures were registered intra-arterially and in the great toe and thumb with the cuff method. During IABP, an augmented flow was registered in the arms and legs and accurate arterial BPs could also be determined from the extremities. The findings demonstrate a beneficial effect of IABP on peripheral flow, expecially in patients who could be weaned off the pump.", "PMID": 452945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10299", "title": "Verapamil-induced ventricular regularity in atrial fibrillation. Effects of exercise, isoproterenol, atropine and conversion to sinus rhythm.", "content": "The effects of physical exercise, isoproterenol and atropine upon the ventricular rate and regularity were studied in 12 patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) during verapamil-induced regular ventricular rhythm. Physical exercise, isoproterenol and atropine all caused a gradual loss of ventricular regularity during AF. Verapamil caused a reduction of exercise heart rate during AF and, to a minor extent, even during sinus rhythm. The regular ventricular rhythm induced by verapamil during AF is interpreted as a total AV-nodal block with nodal escape rhythm. Possible clinical benefits of this rhythm are discussed.", "contents": "Verapamil-induced ventricular regularity in atrial fibrillation. Effects of exercise, isoproterenol, atropine and conversion to sinus rhythm. The effects of physical exercise, isoproterenol and atropine upon the ventricular rate and regularity were studied in 12 patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) during verapamil-induced regular ventricular rhythm. Physical exercise, isoproterenol and atropine all caused a gradual loss of ventricular regularity during AF. Verapamil caused a reduction of exercise heart rate during AF and, to a minor extent, even during sinus rhythm. The regular ventricular rhythm induced by verapamil during AF is interpreted as a total AV-nodal block with nodal escape rhythm. Possible clinical benefits of this rhythm are discussed.", "PMID": 452946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10300", "title": "Follow-up studies of joint complications in yersiniosis.", "content": "In 1971-73, 60 patients were hospitalized for an infectios disease caused by Y. enterocolitica serotypes III and IX or Y. pseudotuberculosis serotype I. In the spring of 1977 a follow-up study was carried out with 52 of these patients, one patient having died from intestinal perforation evidently resulting from yersiniosis-induced amyloidosis and colitis. The follow-up study showed that two patients had symptoms of sacroilitis, one had developed an apparent rheumatoid arthritis after yersiniosis and one had joint plans and a high serum rheumatoid factor titer with no objective joint changes. All results from kidney and liver studies were normal. No brucellosis antibodies were found in the follow-up study. Twelve patients had antibody titers against Y. enterocolitica serotype III.", "contents": "Follow-up studies of joint complications in yersiniosis. In 1971-73, 60 patients were hospitalized for an infectios disease caused by Y. enterocolitica serotypes III and IX or Y. pseudotuberculosis serotype I. In the spring of 1977 a follow-up study was carried out with 52 of these patients, one patient having died from intestinal perforation evidently resulting from yersiniosis-induced amyloidosis and colitis. The follow-up study showed that two patients had symptoms of sacroilitis, one had developed an apparent rheumatoid arthritis after yersiniosis and one had joint plans and a high serum rheumatoid factor titer with no objective joint changes. All results from kidney and liver studies were normal. No brucellosis antibodies were found in the follow-up study. Twelve patients had antibody titers against Y. enterocolitica serotype III.", "PMID": 452947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10301", "title": "Left atrial myxoma moving from right atrium to left ventricle. Non-invasive and invasive techniques and surgical findings.", "content": "A case of left atrial myxoma, prolapsing through a large atrial septal defect during systole and through the mitral valve orifice during diastole, is presented. To our knowledge this is the third such case and only the second one in which the diagnosis was made before operation. Echocardiography and phonocardiography were of great value in establishing the diagnosis of left atrial myoxoma; the features before and after operation are presented. In this patient the \"swinging\" of the tumor in the left atrium and in the left ventricle was echocardiographically visible. Correlations of tumor movement and heart sounds could be made. The diagnosis of a 36% left-to-right shunt on atrial level could not be made with the help of non-invasive techniques alone; cardiac catheterization revealed the shunt. The role of non-invasive techniques and of cardiac catheterization is discussed, together with a review of the relevant literature.", "contents": "Left atrial myxoma moving from right atrium to left ventricle. Non-invasive and invasive techniques and surgical findings. A case of left atrial myxoma, prolapsing through a large atrial septal defect during systole and through the mitral valve orifice during diastole, is presented. To our knowledge this is the third such case and only the second one in which the diagnosis was made before operation. Echocardiography and phonocardiography were of great value in establishing the diagnosis of left atrial myoxoma; the features before and after operation are presented. In this patient the \"swinging\" of the tumor in the left atrium and in the left ventricle was echocardiographically visible. Correlations of tumor movement and heart sounds could be made. The diagnosis of a 36% left-to-right shunt on atrial level could not be made with the help of non-invasive techniques alone; cardiac catheterization revealed the shunt. The role of non-invasive techniques and of cardiac catheterization is discussed, together with a review of the relevant literature.", "PMID": 452948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10302", "title": "Acquired factor XII Deficiency in a patient with nephrotic syndrome.", "content": "A patient with nephrotic syndrome and an acquired factor XII deficiency associated with a factor XII-like procoagulant activity in the urine was investigated. The urinary protein with procoagulant activity was isolated and comparative investigations revealed similar properties to plasma factor XII. It is suggested that the acquired coagulation defect may result from an insufficient biosynthetic capacity to compensate for the loss of factor XII in the urine.", "contents": "Acquired factor XII Deficiency in a patient with nephrotic syndrome. A patient with nephrotic syndrome and an acquired factor XII deficiency associated with a factor XII-like procoagulant activity in the urine was investigated. The urinary protein with procoagulant activity was isolated and comparative investigations revealed similar properties to plasma factor XII. It is suggested that the acquired coagulation defect may result from an insufficient biosynthetic capacity to compensate for the loss of factor XII in the urine.", "PMID": 452949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10303", "title": "Compression of the inferior caval vein--a rare complication of a large non-parasitic liver cyst.", "content": "A patient with massive edema of the legs and scrotum is presented in whom non-parasitic cysts of the liver were found. Surgical evacuation of one large lobulated liver cyst completely relieved the patient of his edema. It is concluded that in this patient the peripheral edema was caused solely by cystic obstruction of the inferior caval vein.", "contents": "Compression of the inferior caval vein--a rare complication of a large non-parasitic liver cyst. A patient with massive edema of the legs and scrotum is presented in whom non-parasitic cysts of the liver were found. Surgical evacuation of one large lobulated liver cyst completely relieved the patient of his edema. It is concluded that in this patient the peripheral edema was caused solely by cystic obstruction of the inferior caval vein.", "PMID": 452950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10304", "title": "Why do crystalline precipitates in plasma cells always coalesce with parallel light and dark lines strictly end-to-end and side-to-side?", "content": "During transmission electron microscopy of plasma cells from two patients with plasma cell proliferative disorders, we observed a large number of small crystals, most of which showed a striation with alternating light and dark parallel lines. Ultraphotos strongly suggested that smaller crystals often coalesced to larger ones. The coalescence occurred in such a way that the parallel lines of the respective smaller crystals always met each other end-to-end and hardly ever end-to-side. A similar pattern can be seen on previously published ultraphotos from other patients with plasma cell proliferative disorders and intracellular crystals, although not commented upon by the respective authors. The parallel lines of the smaller crystals certainly must correspond to defined structures of the crystal. The stability of a certain configuration is therefore in all likelihood due to electrical potentials created by the crystal structure.", "contents": "Why do crystalline precipitates in plasma cells always coalesce with parallel light and dark lines strictly end-to-end and side-to-side? During transmission electron microscopy of plasma cells from two patients with plasma cell proliferative disorders, we observed a large number of small crystals, most of which showed a striation with alternating light and dark parallel lines. Ultraphotos strongly suggested that smaller crystals often coalesced to larger ones. The coalescence occurred in such a way that the parallel lines of the respective smaller crystals always met each other end-to-end and hardly ever end-to-side. A similar pattern can be seen on previously published ultraphotos from other patients with plasma cell proliferative disorders and intracellular crystals, although not commented upon by the respective authors. The parallel lines of the smaller crystals certainly must correspond to defined structures of the crystal. The stability of a certain configuration is therefore in all likelihood due to electrical potentials created by the crystal structure.", "PMID": 452951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10305", "title": "The septation of the arterial pole of the heart in the chick embryo. III. Development of the truncus arteriosus of the heart of chick embryos from 5 1/2 to 7 days of incubation.", "content": "At the end of the fifth day of incubation the mesenchymal truncus arteriosus is completely divided into aorta and pulmonary trunk. During the first half of the sixth day the septation process starts in the distal part of the myocardial truncus by the ingrowth of the dense mesenchyme of the aortico-pulmonary septum into the dorsal and ventral-right truncus ridges. During the second half of the sixth day this septation process extends into proximal direction. Proximally to the ingrowing aortico-pulmonary septum the dorsal and ventral-right ridges fuse. In these fused ridges the aortico-pulmonary septum extends proximally for some distance. During the first half of the seventh day the left ventricular outlet is separated from the right ventricular inlet by the downward extension of the right caudal side of the atrioventricular cushion-mass, which continues into the right proximal truncus ridge (at the transition into the distal ventral-right ridge). In the meantime the fusion of the dorsal and ventral truncus ridges continues in proximal direction. This process comes to be completed in the second half of the seventh day by the fusion of the left (dorsal) and right (ventral) truncus ridges up to the level where the left one continues along the free border of the interventricular septum into the right limb of the dorsal extension of the atrioventricular cushion-mass. During the sixth and seventh day the origins of aorta and pulmonary trunk rotate from their right and left positions in younger stages to an almost dorsal and ventral position respectively in older stages. The septum trunci lying in between the left and the right ventricular outlet in the truncus appears to be a straight septum and does not rotate.", "contents": "The septation of the arterial pole of the heart in the chick embryo. III. Development of the truncus arteriosus of the heart of chick embryos from 5 1/2 to 7 days of incubation. At the end of the fifth day of incubation the mesenchymal truncus arteriosus is completely divided into aorta and pulmonary trunk. During the first half of the sixth day the septation process starts in the distal part of the myocardial truncus by the ingrowth of the dense mesenchyme of the aortico-pulmonary septum into the dorsal and ventral-right truncus ridges. During the second half of the sixth day this septation process extends into proximal direction. Proximally to the ingrowing aortico-pulmonary septum the dorsal and ventral-right ridges fuse. In these fused ridges the aortico-pulmonary septum extends proximally for some distance. During the first half of the seventh day the left ventricular outlet is separated from the right ventricular inlet by the downward extension of the right caudal side of the atrioventricular cushion-mass, which continues into the right proximal truncus ridge (at the transition into the distal ventral-right ridge). In the meantime the fusion of the dorsal and ventral truncus ridges continues in proximal direction. This process comes to be completed in the second half of the seventh day by the fusion of the left (dorsal) and right (ventral) truncus ridges up to the level where the left one continues along the free border of the interventricular septum into the right limb of the dorsal extension of the atrioventricular cushion-mass. During the sixth and seventh day the origins of aorta and pulmonary trunk rotate from their right and left positions in younger stages to an almost dorsal and ventral position respectively in older stages. The septum trunci lying in between the left and the right ventricular outlet in the truncus appears to be a straight septum and does not rotate.", "PMID": 452952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10306", "title": "The morphology of the mouse cerebellum.", "content": "In this description of the morphology of the mouse cerebellum, the main landmarks for subdivision were the discontinuities of the cortical sheet. In certain cerebellar sulci in the posterior lobe, the cortex is absent. Within the paramedian sulcus the cortex is interrupted rostral and caudal to the copula pyramidis. Rostrally, this discontinuity between vermis and hemisphere occupies a position corresponding to the intercrural sulcus of the ansiform lobule of other mammals. A subdivision into the simple lobule (VI and HVI), ansiform and paramedian lobule (HVII) and vermal lobule VII is proposed for this region, which accounts for the position of this cortexless area in the intercrural sulcus. Caudal to the copula pyramidis is the cortex is interrupted at the bottom of the paramedian sulcus between lobules X, IX and caudal VIII medially, and the paraflocculus and flocculus laterally. In most mammals, this area, devoid of cortex, extends much farther in the interparafloccular sulcus between the dorsal paraflocculus and the flocculus with the ventral paraflocculus. From the medullary surface of the cerebellar peduncles an area without cortex extends in between the ansiform lobule and the paraflocculus onto the copula pyramidis and the paramedian lobule. The nomenclature of the distal, foliated part of the paraflocculus in mouse, rat and rabbit is discussed.", "contents": "The morphology of the mouse cerebellum. In this description of the morphology of the mouse cerebellum, the main landmarks for subdivision were the discontinuities of the cortical sheet. In certain cerebellar sulci in the posterior lobe, the cortex is absent. Within the paramedian sulcus the cortex is interrupted rostral and caudal to the copula pyramidis. Rostrally, this discontinuity between vermis and hemisphere occupies a position corresponding to the intercrural sulcus of the ansiform lobule of other mammals. A subdivision into the simple lobule (VI and HVI), ansiform and paramedian lobule (HVII) and vermal lobule VII is proposed for this region, which accounts for the position of this cortexless area in the intercrural sulcus. Caudal to the copula pyramidis is the cortex is interrupted at the bottom of the paramedian sulcus between lobules X, IX and caudal VIII medially, and the paraflocculus and flocculus laterally. In most mammals, this area, devoid of cortex, extends much farther in the interparafloccular sulcus between the dorsal paraflocculus and the flocculus with the ventral paraflocculus. From the medullary surface of the cerebellar peduncles an area without cortex extends in between the ansiform lobule and the paraflocculus onto the copula pyramidis and the paramedian lobule. The nomenclature of the distal, foliated part of the paraflocculus in mouse, rat and rabbit is discussed.", "PMID": 452954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10307", "title": "The effects of experimental unilateral anotia on skull development in the chick embryo. V. The development of the brain and its meningeal envelope in embryos of 9-20 days of incubation.", "content": "In a total number of 27 normal and 27 unilaterally anotic chick embryos, varying in age from 9-19 days, the morphogenetic relationships between the neurocranium on the one hand and the brain and its meningeal envelope on the other were studied. The results showed that, in general, unilateral anotia slightly interferes with the development of the bain. Only the homolateral nucleus tangentialis and cerebellar auricle proved to be underdeveloped. However, the brain of the anotic embryos progressively develops asymmetrically: In an antero-posterior and a ventro-dorsal direction abnormal flexures are present, and various components of the brain on the anotic side undergo changes in shape and position. These changes in brain morphology are interpreted as secondary features. Hence, the conclusion is drawn that the neurocranium, through the intermediary of the meningeal envelope, controls--or at least is capable to control--the general morphological development of the brain.", "contents": "The effects of experimental unilateral anotia on skull development in the chick embryo. V. The development of the brain and its meningeal envelope in embryos of 9-20 days of incubation. In a total number of 27 normal and 27 unilaterally anotic chick embryos, varying in age from 9-19 days, the morphogenetic relationships between the neurocranium on the one hand and the brain and its meningeal envelope on the other were studied. The results showed that, in general, unilateral anotia slightly interferes with the development of the bain. Only the homolateral nucleus tangentialis and cerebellar auricle proved to be underdeveloped. However, the brain of the anotic embryos progressively develops asymmetrically: In an antero-posterior and a ventro-dorsal direction abnormal flexures are present, and various components of the brain on the anotic side undergo changes in shape and position. These changes in brain morphology are interpreted as secondary features. Hence, the conclusion is drawn that the neurocranium, through the intermediary of the meningeal envelope, controls--or at least is capable to control--the general morphological development of the brain.", "PMID": 452955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10308", "title": "Morphological and histochemical observations on the ovarian surface epithelium during the reproductive cycle of crow (Corvus splendens) and myna (Acridotheres tristis).", "content": "A morphological and histochemical study has been made of ovarian surface epithelium during the sexual cycle of seasonally breeding birds: crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). The surface epithelium is composed of a single layer of compactly arranged columnar and flat cells in the quiescent ovary. It develops numerous villi during the breeding season. The formation of villi has been correlated with the proliferation of cells which are subsequently incorporated into the ovarian stroma where they appear to form follicle and thecal cells around the growing oocytes as evidenced by the close similarities in the morphological and histochemical characteristics of these cell types. As the ovarian activity increases, the surface epithelial cells show increasing amounts of RNA and proteins, which are indicative of their rapid multiplication. No lipids and enzyme activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases, ATPase. DPN- and TPN- diaphorases and delta5-3beta HSDH have been detected in the surface epithelium of both quiescent and active ovaries.", "contents": "Morphological and histochemical observations on the ovarian surface epithelium during the reproductive cycle of crow (Corvus splendens) and myna (Acridotheres tristis). A morphological and histochemical study has been made of ovarian surface epithelium during the sexual cycle of seasonally breeding birds: crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). The surface epithelium is composed of a single layer of compactly arranged columnar and flat cells in the quiescent ovary. It develops numerous villi during the breeding season. The formation of villi has been correlated with the proliferation of cells which are subsequently incorporated into the ovarian stroma where they appear to form follicle and thecal cells around the growing oocytes as evidenced by the close similarities in the morphological and histochemical characteristics of these cell types. As the ovarian activity increases, the surface epithelial cells show increasing amounts of RNA and proteins, which are indicative of their rapid multiplication. No lipids and enzyme activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases, ATPase. DPN- and TPN- diaphorases and delta5-3beta HSDH have been detected in the surface epithelium of both quiescent and active ovaries.", "PMID": 452956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10309", "title": "The dorsal arterial network of the wrist with reference to the blood supply of the carpal bones.", "content": "The gross examination of 50 minium injected specimens showed us the various patterns of the posterior arterial network of the wrist. This is chiefly provided by the radial artery which gives off a constant dorsal carpal branch over the posterior aspect of the trapezium. This vessel crosses the carpus transversely to the inner border of the hand and is joined in half of the cases by the interosseous artery; contribution of the posterior carpal branch of the ulnar artery was more rarely found than usually described (25%). From the arch thus formed are given off short branches which run upwards along the intercarpal joints and enter the posterior aspects of the proximal carpal bones whose lower halves seem to be the most favorably supplied. On the contrary, the distal carpal bones receive several short twigs which penetrate their posterior surfaces. Although the arrangement of the pedicles may undergo many a variation, attention must be drawn to the fact that the dorsal arteries are smaller but denser than the volar, except for the hamate. Therefore 2 different patterns of arterial supply can be described at the carpus: the blood supply of the outer and axial bones--scaphoid, trapezium, lunate, capitate--derives from the radial and the interosseous arteries and is probably shared equally by volar and dorsal branches; the inner bones--triquetrum, hamate--are primarily supplied by volar or medial branches coming almost exclusively from the ulnar artery.", "contents": "The dorsal arterial network of the wrist with reference to the blood supply of the carpal bones. The gross examination of 50 minium injected specimens showed us the various patterns of the posterior arterial network of the wrist. This is chiefly provided by the radial artery which gives off a constant dorsal carpal branch over the posterior aspect of the trapezium. This vessel crosses the carpus transversely to the inner border of the hand and is joined in half of the cases by the interosseous artery; contribution of the posterior carpal branch of the ulnar artery was more rarely found than usually described (25%). From the arch thus formed are given off short branches which run upwards along the intercarpal joints and enter the posterior aspects of the proximal carpal bones whose lower halves seem to be the most favorably supplied. On the contrary, the distal carpal bones receive several short twigs which penetrate their posterior surfaces. Although the arrangement of the pedicles may undergo many a variation, attention must be drawn to the fact that the dorsal arteries are smaller but denser than the volar, except for the hamate. Therefore 2 different patterns of arterial supply can be described at the carpus: the blood supply of the outer and axial bones--scaphoid, trapezium, lunate, capitate--derives from the radial and the interosseous arteries and is probably shared equally by volar and dorsal branches; the inner bones--triquetrum, hamate--are primarily supplied by volar or medial branches coming almost exclusively from the ulnar artery.", "PMID": 452957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10310", "title": "Stimulus-response spatial contiguity vs. S-R spatial discontiguity in auditory spatial tasks. I. Acquisition by normal dogs.", "content": "Twelve dogs were trained in spatial tasks with auditory location cues. One group, tested on delayed response with stimuli and responses spatially contiguous, solved the task at once, whereas the other group, trained with actual stimuli and responses spatially discontiguous, attained criterion after errors. The differences in behavior of these groups suggest that two learning strategies may be involved. In the first group - approaching a specific (directly determined by auditory targeting reflex) feeder by an unspecific directional response. In the other group - approaching a non-specific feeder by a specific directional response, established in the differentiation learning.", "contents": "Stimulus-response spatial contiguity vs. S-R spatial discontiguity in auditory spatial tasks. I. Acquisition by normal dogs. Twelve dogs were trained in spatial tasks with auditory location cues. One group, tested on delayed response with stimuli and responses spatially contiguous, solved the task at once, whereas the other group, trained with actual stimuli and responses spatially discontiguous, attained criterion after errors. The differences in behavior of these groups suggest that two learning strategies may be involved. In the first group - approaching a specific (directly determined by auditory targeting reflex) feeder by an unspecific directional response. In the other group - approaching a non-specific feeder by a specific directional response, established in the differentiation learning.", "PMID": 452958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10311", "title": "The effect of distractor on memory for pitch: trace distortion or interference with retrieval?", "content": "The effect of the time of presentation of an interpolated stimulus on dynamic memory for pitch of pure tones of 900-2000 Hz was investigated by comparison of successive stimuli. The test tone followed the sample tone after 25, 40, 60, 80, 160 or 320 s. The interpolated stimulus (a pure tone of 220 Hz) was timed either 20 s before the test tone (Experiment I) or 20 s after the sample (Experiment II). The effect of the interpolated stimulus on memory for pitch was found to vary with the time interval between this stimulus and the test tone. An interfering effect was observed when this interval did not exceed 40 s. No variation in effect occurred within this time limit. These findings suggest that the distracting stimulus interferes with the retrieval of the memory trace of the sample tone rather than with the trace itself.", "contents": "The effect of distractor on memory for pitch: trace distortion or interference with retrieval? The effect of the time of presentation of an interpolated stimulus on dynamic memory for pitch of pure tones of 900-2000 Hz was investigated by comparison of successive stimuli. The test tone followed the sample tone after 25, 40, 60, 80, 160 or 320 s. The interpolated stimulus (a pure tone of 220 Hz) was timed either 20 s before the test tone (Experiment I) or 20 s after the sample (Experiment II). The effect of the interpolated stimulus on memory for pitch was found to vary with the time interval between this stimulus and the test tone. An interfering effect was observed when this interval did not exceed 40 s. No variation in effect occurred within this time limit. These findings suggest that the distracting stimulus interferes with the retrieval of the memory trace of the sample tone rather than with the trace itself.", "PMID": 452959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10312", "title": "On the functions of the cortical motor area in precise movement organization.", "content": "The effects of unilateral ablation of the cortical motor forelimb area on instrumental avoidance responses consisting of lifting the forelimb and holding it within a 4 cm wide \"safety zone\" were studied in dogs. It was found that the surgery irreversibly impaired the search for the safety zone, while the ability to maintain the limb at a certain height was not affected. The surgery also impaired the corrective movements, especially if their direction was opposite to the inborn unconditioned reaction. The ability to perform corrective movements of small amplitude was also transiently diminished Widening of the safety zone markedly improved the post-operative performance.", "contents": "On the functions of the cortical motor area in precise movement organization. The effects of unilateral ablation of the cortical motor forelimb area on instrumental avoidance responses consisting of lifting the forelimb and holding it within a 4 cm wide \"safety zone\" were studied in dogs. It was found that the surgery irreversibly impaired the search for the safety zone, while the ability to maintain the limb at a certain height was not affected. The surgery also impaired the corrective movements, especially if their direction was opposite to the inborn unconditioned reaction. The ability to perform corrective movements of small amplitude was also transiently diminished Widening of the safety zone markedly improved the post-operative performance.", "PMID": 452960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10313", "title": "Intrahypothalamic microinjections of noradrenaline with and without induction of the alimentary drive as a reward in a T maze learning in rats.", "content": "Noradrenaline injected into the perifornical region of the anterior part of the lateral hypothalamus in rats can serve as a reinforcement in a T maze learning, whether it induces the activation of the alimentary drive or not. It follows that the main role of noradrenaline in this brain area consists not so much in induction of the alimentary drive as in activation of the very process which is essential for the reinforcement. It is claimed that intrahypothalamic microinjections of noradrenaline evoke pleasurable states which constitute a virtual reinforcement of motivated behavior.", "contents": "Intrahypothalamic microinjections of noradrenaline with and without induction of the alimentary drive as a reward in a T maze learning in rats. Noradrenaline injected into the perifornical region of the anterior part of the lateral hypothalamus in rats can serve as a reinforcement in a T maze learning, whether it induces the activation of the alimentary drive or not. It follows that the main role of noradrenaline in this brain area consists not so much in induction of the alimentary drive as in activation of the very process which is essential for the reinforcement. It is claimed that intrahypothalamic microinjections of noradrenaline evoke pleasurable states which constitute a virtual reinforcement of motivated behavior.", "PMID": 452961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10314", "title": "Connections of the posterior thalamus with the amygdaloid body of the rat.", "content": "The thalamo-amygdaloid connections arising in the posterior thalamus were studied in the brains of rats by the Nauta-Gygax and Fink-Heimer methods. They begin mainly in the neurons of the supero-medial area of the posterior segment of the pulvinar and in the peripeduncular nucleus. The amygdalopetal fibers of this pathway pass through the zona incerta, cerebral peduncle, and the lateral hypothalamus. They end in the lateral nucleus and in the lateral part of the central nucleus of the amygdaloid body.", "contents": "Connections of the posterior thalamus with the amygdaloid body of the rat. The thalamo-amygdaloid connections arising in the posterior thalamus were studied in the brains of rats by the Nauta-Gygax and Fink-Heimer methods. They begin mainly in the neurons of the supero-medial area of the posterior segment of the pulvinar and in the peripeduncular nucleus. The amygdalopetal fibers of this pathway pass through the zona incerta, cerebral peduncle, and the lateral hypothalamus. They end in the lateral nucleus and in the lateral part of the central nucleus of the amygdaloid body.", "PMID": 452962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10315", "title": "Post-haemorrhagic subarachnoid fibrosis in dogs. Scanning electron microscopic observation and dye perfusion study.", "content": "Scanning electron microscopic observations of the subarachnoid space were made in dogs focussing upon the fibre components in both the normal subarachnoid space and in areas of post-haemorrhagic fibrosis. It was concluded that the fibrous tissue originates from the arachnoid membrane itself, while organized haematoma is considered to form a component of the fibrosis. Perfusion of the subarachnoid space of dogs with a solution of 0.1% Toluidine Blue was also done. This showed that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is carried from the subarachnoid space directly to the dural sinuses through a fine string-like structure, which is conceivably one of the collateral CSF absorptive pathways.", "contents": "Post-haemorrhagic subarachnoid fibrosis in dogs. Scanning electron microscopic observation and dye perfusion study. Scanning electron microscopic observations of the subarachnoid space were made in dogs focussing upon the fibre components in both the normal subarachnoid space and in areas of post-haemorrhagic fibrosis. It was concluded that the fibrous tissue originates from the arachnoid membrane itself, while organized haematoma is considered to form a component of the fibrosis. Perfusion of the subarachnoid space of dogs with a solution of 0.1% Toluidine Blue was also done. This showed that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is carried from the subarachnoid space directly to the dural sinuses through a fine string-like structure, which is conceivably one of the collateral CSF absorptive pathways.", "PMID": 452963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10316", "title": "Late post-irradiation necrosis of the brain.", "content": "Three examples of late post-irradiation brain necrosis are reported. In two cases operation was performed on account of the space-occupying effects of the lesions, and in the third case the lesion was found post-mortem. The aetiology and pathology of the condition are discussed. Our findings in the three cases described are contrasted with those in 29 patients who had been submitted to similar doses of irradiation, but had not developed necrosis. The literature on pathogenesis is briefly reviewed.", "contents": "Late post-irradiation necrosis of the brain. Three examples of late post-irradiation brain necrosis are reported. In two cases operation was performed on account of the space-occupying effects of the lesions, and in the third case the lesion was found post-mortem. The aetiology and pathology of the condition are discussed. Our findings in the three cases described are contrasted with those in 29 patients who had been submitted to similar doses of irradiation, but had not developed necrosis. The literature on pathogenesis is briefly reviewed.", "PMID": 452964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10317", "title": "Neurogenic hypernatraemia: case report.", "content": "A 49-year-old man was submitted to neurosurgery for a cranio-pharyngioma. The lesion, which appeared to involve the antero-inferior wall of the third ventricle, caused lack of appropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release in response to hypernatraemia and plasma hyperosmolality. The probable mechanism of this hypothalamic syndrome is suggested.", "contents": "Neurogenic hypernatraemia: case report. A 49-year-old man was submitted to neurosurgery for a cranio-pharyngioma. The lesion, which appeared to involve the antero-inferior wall of the third ventricle, caused lack of appropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release in response to hypernatraemia and plasma hyperosmolality. The probable mechanism of this hypothalamic syndrome is suggested.", "PMID": 452965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10318", "title": "Some scanning electron microscopic observations of the ependymal surface of the ventricles of hydrocephalic Hy3 mice and a human infant.", "content": "Two hydrocephalic Hy 3 mice and an infant with hydrocephalus and the Arnold-Chiari malformation were examined with the scanning electron microscope. Both mice had advanced hydrocephalus but had normal appearances in the basal regions of the ventricles. However, as the ventricular walls were ascended first the cilia gradually disappeared, then the microvilli, and finally on the roof of the ventricle the ependymal cells disappeared leaving the subependymal layers exposed. The infant had mild hydrocephalus and normal ependymal appearances. The most likely explanation of these findings is that they are a consequence of raised intracranial pressure, and are not the cause of hydrocephalus.", "contents": "Some scanning electron microscopic observations of the ependymal surface of the ventricles of hydrocephalic Hy3 mice and a human infant. Two hydrocephalic Hy 3 mice and an infant with hydrocephalus and the Arnold-Chiari malformation were examined with the scanning electron microscope. Both mice had advanced hydrocephalus but had normal appearances in the basal regions of the ventricles. However, as the ventricular walls were ascended first the cilia gradually disappeared, then the microvilli, and finally on the roof of the ventricle the ependymal cells disappeared leaving the subependymal layers exposed. The infant had mild hydrocephalus and normal ependymal appearances. The most likely explanation of these findings is that they are a consequence of raised intracranial pressure, and are not the cause of hydrocephalus.", "PMID": 452966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10319", "title": "The effect of decerebrate rigidity on the intracranial pressure: an experimental study.", "content": "The mechanical effect of acute decerebrate rigidity upon the ICP and the mechanisms underlying the relationship between them have been investigated with experiments performed on 26 cats. It has been shown that: a) Extreme rigidity of the peripheral musculature with or without partial activation of the trunkal muscles produces no change in ICP, b) the simultaneous elevation of the intra-thoracic and intra-abdominal pressures is the factor primarily operative in raising and maintaining the elevated ICP, c) when cerebrovascular homeostasis is already defective a subsidiary but not unimportant role is played by the elevation of the systemic arterial pressure, d) under conditions of normal brain elastance mild and short-lasting spasms produce no effect on the ICP. In an animal, however, in which the brain elastance had been increased by inflating a small air-filled balloon, similar spasms produced a marked increase in ICP.", "contents": "The effect of decerebrate rigidity on the intracranial pressure: an experimental study. The mechanical effect of acute decerebrate rigidity upon the ICP and the mechanisms underlying the relationship between them have been investigated with experiments performed on 26 cats. It has been shown that: a) Extreme rigidity of the peripheral musculature with or without partial activation of the trunkal muscles produces no change in ICP, b) the simultaneous elevation of the intra-thoracic and intra-abdominal pressures is the factor primarily operative in raising and maintaining the elevated ICP, c) when cerebrovascular homeostasis is already defective a subsidiary but not unimportant role is played by the elevation of the systemic arterial pressure, d) under conditions of normal brain elastance mild and short-lasting spasms produce no effect on the ICP. In an animal, however, in which the brain elastance had been increased by inflating a small air-filled balloon, similar spasms produced a marked increase in ICP.", "PMID": 452967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10320", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in patients with brain tumours.", "content": "Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid CEA determination was done in 97 patients with neurosurgical disorders. Elevated titres were found in 14 of 64 patients with brain tumours. CEA levels were elevated significantly in patients with metastatic brain tumours. Following treatment, the values fell in three patients with ependymoma, medulloblastoma, and unverified brain tumour. This study suggests that CEA levels may be of value in the differential diagnosis of primary and metastatic brain tumours, and useful in the evaluation of patients with brain tumours after treatment. CEA in the cerebrospinal fluid was absent in eight patients with brain tumours.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in patients with brain tumours. Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid CEA determination was done in 97 patients with neurosurgical disorders. Elevated titres were found in 14 of 64 patients with brain tumours. CEA levels were elevated significantly in patients with metastatic brain tumours. Following treatment, the values fell in three patients with ependymoma, medulloblastoma, and unverified brain tumour. This study suggests that CEA levels may be of value in the differential diagnosis of primary and metastatic brain tumours, and useful in the evaluation of patients with brain tumours after treatment. CEA in the cerebrospinal fluid was absent in eight patients with brain tumours.", "PMID": 452968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10321", "title": "Clinical and morphological studies of pineal tumours.", "content": "This is a report of clinical, morphological, diagnostic, endocrinological and therapeutical experiences with 18 patients with tumours in the pineal region. The histological diagnosis was verified in four cases by autopsy, in seven cases by biopsy, and in one case by microscopical verification of tumour cells in the CSF. In all biopsy cases we are dealing with typical germinomas. In the other clinical cases diagnosis was made by neuroradiological and endocrinological methods. The localization was possible by encephalotomography or CT scan, according to Kageyama, Particular attention was given to the endocrinological dysfunctions which originate in the hypothalamus. Also the hypothalamic dysfunctions after irradiation were discussed. Since the results of primary surgical approach and biopsy have been unsatisfactory, we preferred a non-operative schedule for treatment of pineal tumours.", "contents": "Clinical and morphological studies of pineal tumours. This is a report of clinical, morphological, diagnostic, endocrinological and therapeutical experiences with 18 patients with tumours in the pineal region. The histological diagnosis was verified in four cases by autopsy, in seven cases by biopsy, and in one case by microscopical verification of tumour cells in the CSF. In all biopsy cases we are dealing with typical germinomas. In the other clinical cases diagnosis was made by neuroradiological and endocrinological methods. The localization was possible by encephalotomography or CT scan, according to Kageyama, Particular attention was given to the endocrinological dysfunctions which originate in the hypothalamus. Also the hypothalamic dysfunctions after irradiation were discussed. Since the results of primary surgical approach and biopsy have been unsatisfactory, we preferred a non-operative schedule for treatment of pineal tumours.", "PMID": 452969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10322", "title": "Malignant glioma: its initial presentation as intracranial haemorrhage.", "content": "Malignant glioma presenting as an intracerebral haematoma is very rare. Two patients having malignant gliomas, initially presenting as intraparenchymal haematomas, are discussed. One patient survived, but the other patient rapidly deteriorated and died.", "contents": "Malignant glioma: its initial presentation as intracranial haemorrhage. Malignant glioma presenting as an intracerebral haematoma is very rare. Two patients having malignant gliomas, initially presenting as intraparenchymal haematomas, are discussed. One patient survived, but the other patient rapidly deteriorated and died.", "PMID": 452970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10323", "title": "Early intracranial operations for ruptured aneurysms.", "content": "During the period between June 1961 and September 1975 320 patients with saccular aneurysms were operated on by intracranial procedures within 14 days of their last subarachnoid hemorrhages. Overall operative mortality rate for the 14 year period was 10.6%, being 18.9% for 143 cases operated on within 7 days of rupture and 4.0% for 177 cases operated on between the 8th and 14th days. The mortality was reduced to the zero level by 1975 in the groups operated on within 48 hours and 8 to 14 days by selection of the patients as well as by improvements in surgical techniques and adjuncts, but did not reach a satisfactory level in the group operated on between the third and seventh days mainly because of fatality due to postoperative vasospasm. The quality of survival after surgery performed within seven days was better than that of surgery performed at eight days or later. Based on these results, the rationale for and technical problems concerning the early stage operations are discussed.", "contents": "Early intracranial operations for ruptured aneurysms. During the period between June 1961 and September 1975 320 patients with saccular aneurysms were operated on by intracranial procedures within 14 days of their last subarachnoid hemorrhages. Overall operative mortality rate for the 14 year period was 10.6%, being 18.9% for 143 cases operated on within 7 days of rupture and 4.0% for 177 cases operated on between the 8th and 14th days. The mortality was reduced to the zero level by 1975 in the groups operated on within 48 hours and 8 to 14 days by selection of the patients as well as by improvements in surgical techniques and adjuncts, but did not reach a satisfactory level in the group operated on between the third and seventh days mainly because of fatality due to postoperative vasospasm. The quality of survival after surgery performed within seven days was better than that of surgery performed at eight days or later. Based on these results, the rationale for and technical problems concerning the early stage operations are discussed.", "PMID": 452972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10324", "title": "De Quervain's disease.", "content": "This is a tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons contained within the osseofibrous tunnel of the distal radius. Multiple tendons for the abductor pollicis longus and a separate, severely narrowed sheath for the extensor pollicis brevis make nonsurgical treatment difficult at times. While avoiding damage to nerve branches, surgical treatment is aimed at release of both tendon sheaths.", "contents": "De Quervain's disease. This is a tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons contained within the osseofibrous tunnel of the distal radius. Multiple tendons for the abductor pollicis longus and a separate, severely narrowed sheath for the extensor pollicis brevis make nonsurgical treatment difficult at times. While avoiding damage to nerve branches, surgical treatment is aimed at release of both tendon sheaths.", "PMID": 452990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10325", "title": "Therapeutic nerve blocks for chronic pain.", "content": "Nerve blocks are an effective treatment in patients with many types of acute pain. However, they are much less effective in patients with chronic pain. Candidates for therapeutic nerve blocks should be carefully screened by: assessment of organic disease; evaluation of psychologic and behavioral disorders, and differential nerve blocks. The best candidates for therapeutic nerve blocks have known or inferred organic disease, minimal psychologic or behavioral disorders, and evidence of sympathetic or somatic pain mechanisms.", "contents": "Therapeutic nerve blocks for chronic pain. Nerve blocks are an effective treatment in patients with many types of acute pain. However, they are much less effective in patients with chronic pain. Candidates for therapeutic nerve blocks should be carefully screened by: assessment of organic disease; evaluation of psychologic and behavioral disorders, and differential nerve blocks. The best candidates for therapeutic nerve blocks have known or inferred organic disease, minimal psychologic or behavioral disorders, and evidence of sympathetic or somatic pain mechanisms.", "PMID": 452999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10326", "title": "The hemolytic anemias.", "content": "Hemolytic anemias usually present with persistent reticulocytosis, a characteristic that differentiates them from other types of anemia. Once the presence of a hemolytic process has been documented, simple observation of red blood cell morphology will yield important etiologic information. Hemolysis may result from inherent defects in the red cell or from excessive environmental stress on normal cells. Immune mechanisms of hemolysis should be investigated early because of the frequency of their occurrence.", "contents": "The hemolytic anemias. Hemolytic anemias usually present with persistent reticulocytosis, a characteristic that differentiates them from other types of anemia. Once the presence of a hemolytic process has been documented, simple observation of red blood cell morphology will yield important etiologic information. Hemolysis may result from inherent defects in the red cell or from excessive environmental stress on normal cells. Immune mechanisms of hemolysis should be investigated early because of the frequency of their occurrence.", "PMID": 453000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10327", "title": "The prognostic value of the P wave morphology in the discharge ECG in a 5-year follow-up study after myocardial infarction.", "content": "The discharge ECG's of 641 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (WHO categories \"definite\" and \"possible\" AMI) were studied to assess the prognostic value of P wave morphology as an index of left ventricular dysfunction. Of 69 patients with abnormal P terminal force (PTF), i.e., --0.03 mm.sec. or more negative, 53.6 per cent died within the next 5 years of ischemic heart disease, compared with 20.4 per cent of 558 patients with normal PTF. The odds ratio (age-corrected risk to die, Mantel-Haenszel test) was 4.1 (95 per cent confidence limits 2.4 to 7.0). The mortality curve of patients with normal PTF was linear whereas there was an abrupt rise in mortality rate during the first six months if PTF was abnormal. Of a group of 15 patients with the frontal axis of the terminal P wave --30 degrees or more negative, 8 died (Odds ratio 4.7; 1.3 to 17.1). Ten patients had atrial fibrillation, and five of them died (Odds ratio 2.; 0.5 to 12.9). In 14 cases the duration of the P wave in Lead II was 0.12 sec. but it showed no relationship to mortality (p less than 0.10). The significance of the P wave morphology on the discharge ECG to long-term survival after MI has been demonstrated. These simple ECG variables, related to left ventricular failure, can easily be put to clinical use to differentiate MI patients who are in greater risk of dying during the chronic phase.", "contents": "The prognostic value of the P wave morphology in the discharge ECG in a 5-year follow-up study after myocardial infarction. The discharge ECG's of 641 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (WHO categories \"definite\" and \"possible\" AMI) were studied to assess the prognostic value of P wave morphology as an index of left ventricular dysfunction. Of 69 patients with abnormal P terminal force (PTF), i.e., --0.03 mm.sec. or more negative, 53.6 per cent died within the next 5 years of ischemic heart disease, compared with 20.4 per cent of 558 patients with normal PTF. The odds ratio (age-corrected risk to die, Mantel-Haenszel test) was 4.1 (95 per cent confidence limits 2.4 to 7.0). The mortality curve of patients with normal PTF was linear whereas there was an abrupt rise in mortality rate during the first six months if PTF was abnormal. Of a group of 15 patients with the frontal axis of the terminal P wave --30 degrees or more negative, 8 died (Odds ratio 4.7; 1.3 to 17.1). Ten patients had atrial fibrillation, and five of them died (Odds ratio 2.; 0.5 to 12.9). In 14 cases the duration of the P wave in Lead II was 0.12 sec. but it showed no relationship to mortality (p less than 0.10). The significance of the P wave morphology on the discharge ECG to long-term survival after MI has been demonstrated. These simple ECG variables, related to left ventricular failure, can easily be put to clinical use to differentiate MI patients who are in greater risk of dying during the chronic phase.", "PMID": 453009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10328", "title": "Effect of somatic nerve stimulation on coronary blood flow in anesthetized dogs.", "content": "Left circumflex coronary blood flow was increased significantly (20 per cent) during stimulation of somatic afferent fibers. The change in CBF was associated with significant increases in heart rate and arterial pressure and significant decrease in coronary vascular resistance. Controlling heart rate or preventing cardiac beta-adrenergic effects with propranolol during somatic nerve stimulation resulted in increases in CBF and arterial pressure with no change in coronary resistance. These results indicate that stimulation of a somatic nerve elicited an increase in CBF which could be explained on the basis of an increase in perfusion pressure plus a decrease in CVR resulting from the increased metabolic demand secondary to the increase in heart rate. There was no evidence of a significant neural component directly affecting CVR, even in the presence of beta-adrenergic blockade.", "contents": "Effect of somatic nerve stimulation on coronary blood flow in anesthetized dogs. Left circumflex coronary blood flow was increased significantly (20 per cent) during stimulation of somatic afferent fibers. The change in CBF was associated with significant increases in heart rate and arterial pressure and significant decrease in coronary vascular resistance. Controlling heart rate or preventing cardiac beta-adrenergic effects with propranolol during somatic nerve stimulation resulted in increases in CBF and arterial pressure with no change in coronary resistance. These results indicate that stimulation of a somatic nerve elicited an increase in CBF which could be explained on the basis of an increase in perfusion pressure plus a decrease in CVR resulting from the increased metabolic demand secondary to the increase in heart rate. There was no evidence of a significant neural component directly affecting CVR, even in the presence of beta-adrenergic blockade.", "PMID": 453010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10329", "title": "Mitral valve commissurotomy versus replacement. Considerations based on examination of operatively excised stenotic mitral valves.", "content": "Among 164 patients who underwent mitral valve replacement because of mitral stenosis (with or without mitral regurgitation) and had radiographs taken of their operatively excised mitral valves, 20 had absent or minimal calcific deposits in the excised valves and absent or minimal mitral regurgitation as determined, except for one patient, by left ventricular angiography preoperatively. This report focuses on these 20 patients to ask if mitral valve replacement was preferable to mitral valve commissurotomy. Although in the pre-valve replacement era, all 20 patients almost surely would have been considered good candidates for mitral commissurotomy, other factors, namely, the need to replace one or more other cardiac valves (13 patients), the utilization of cardiopulmonary bypass allowing visual inspection rather than simple palpation of the diseased mitral valve (all 20 patients), relatively little experience with mitral commissurotomy in four of the five surgeons (17 patients), displeasure with attempted commissurotomy (three patients), previous mitral commissurotomy (11 patients), and incorrect identification of mitral calcific deposits (two patients), each contributed in one or more patients to the final decision of replacement versus commissurotomy. Even though mitral commissurotomy has been in use for 30 years, the mere alternative of valve replacement may have altered somewhat the definition of the stenotic mitral valve previously considered ideal for mitral commissurotomy.", "contents": "Mitral valve commissurotomy versus replacement. Considerations based on examination of operatively excised stenotic mitral valves. Among 164 patients who underwent mitral valve replacement because of mitral stenosis (with or without mitral regurgitation) and had radiographs taken of their operatively excised mitral valves, 20 had absent or minimal calcific deposits in the excised valves and absent or minimal mitral regurgitation as determined, except for one patient, by left ventricular angiography preoperatively. This report focuses on these 20 patients to ask if mitral valve replacement was preferable to mitral valve commissurotomy. Although in the pre-valve replacement era, all 20 patients almost surely would have been considered good candidates for mitral commissurotomy, other factors, namely, the need to replace one or more other cardiac valves (13 patients), the utilization of cardiopulmonary bypass allowing visual inspection rather than simple palpation of the diseased mitral valve (all 20 patients), relatively little experience with mitral commissurotomy in four of the five surgeons (17 patients), displeasure with attempted commissurotomy (three patients), previous mitral commissurotomy (11 patients), and incorrect identification of mitral calcific deposits (two patients), each contributed in one or more patients to the final decision of replacement versus commissurotomy. Even though mitral commissurotomy has been in use for 30 years, the mere alternative of valve replacement may have altered somewhat the definition of the stenotic mitral valve previously considered ideal for mitral commissurotomy.", "PMID": 453012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10330", "title": "Sequential changes of orthogonal electrocardiograms in progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type.", "content": "Sequential changes of orthogonal electrocardiograms in 70 patients with progressive dystrophy of the Duchenne type (PMD) were investigated. The patients were classified into eight stages from the mildest, S(1), to the severest, S(8), according to Swinyard-Deaver's criteria. The most prominent finding was a progressive reduction in R wave amplitude in Lead X (Rx) with advancing severity. It was considered that loss of electrical activity in the left ventricular free wall might be mainly responsible for the reduction in the Rx amplitude. An abnormal Q wave was frequently observed in each stage. Its occurrence remained essentially unchanged with the progression of PMD. Thus, the presence of a deep Q wave cannot serve as an index for assessing the heart involvement, but rather, we conclude that a reduction of the Rx amplitude can be a useful criterion for estimating the extent of cardiac involvement in PMD.", "contents": "Sequential changes of orthogonal electrocardiograms in progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type. Sequential changes of orthogonal electrocardiograms in 70 patients with progressive dystrophy of the Duchenne type (PMD) were investigated. The patients were classified into eight stages from the mildest, S(1), to the severest, S(8), according to Swinyard-Deaver's criteria. The most prominent finding was a progressive reduction in R wave amplitude in Lead X (Rx) with advancing severity. It was considered that loss of electrical activity in the left ventricular free wall might be mainly responsible for the reduction in the Rx amplitude. An abnormal Q wave was frequently observed in each stage. Its occurrence remained essentially unchanged with the progression of PMD. Thus, the presence of a deep Q wave cannot serve as an index for assessing the heart involvement, but rather, we conclude that a reduction of the Rx amplitude can be a useful criterion for estimating the extent of cardiac involvement in PMD.", "PMID": 453014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10331", "title": "Echocardiographic study on diastolic posterior wall movement and left ventricular filling by disease category.", "content": "The diastolic characteristics of the left ventricle with special reference to the patterns of left ventricular filling and diastolic posterior wall movement were studied echocardiographically in 95 patients with various cardiac conditions including constrictive pericarditis, idiopathic cardiomyopathy (CCM, HCM), valvular aortic stenosis (AS), mitral stenosis (MS), hypertension (HT), aortic insufficiency (AI), mitral insufficiency (MI), and in 20 normal subjects. 1. Various types and severities of LV diastolic abnormalities were revealed by analyzing the patterns of posterior wall movement and LV filling in three diastolic phases--rapid filling period, slow filling period, and atrial filling period, respectively. 2. Disturbances of posterior wall distension and LV filling during the rapid filling period with a compensatory augmentation of atrial contribution to LV filling were observed in most patients. These patients also showed a markedly decreased posterior wall velocity and LV filling rate during rapid filling period. 3. E-F slope was significantly decrease in patients with MS, AS, and HCM. E-F slope correlated well with DPWV and RFR in most patients. In MS, however, DDR decreased to a disproportionate degree with a decrease in DPWV and RFR, probably due to the structural changes and decreased mobility of the mitral valve. From this study, we conclude that the patterns of the left ventricular filling and posterior wall movement during three phases of diastole obtained by echocardiography is useful in detecting left ventricular diastolic abnormalities.", "contents": "Echocardiographic study on diastolic posterior wall movement and left ventricular filling by disease category. The diastolic characteristics of the left ventricle with special reference to the patterns of left ventricular filling and diastolic posterior wall movement were studied echocardiographically in 95 patients with various cardiac conditions including constrictive pericarditis, idiopathic cardiomyopathy (CCM, HCM), valvular aortic stenosis (AS), mitral stenosis (MS), hypertension (HT), aortic insufficiency (AI), mitral insufficiency (MI), and in 20 normal subjects. 1. Various types and severities of LV diastolic abnormalities were revealed by analyzing the patterns of posterior wall movement and LV filling in three diastolic phases--rapid filling period, slow filling period, and atrial filling period, respectively. 2. Disturbances of posterior wall distension and LV filling during the rapid filling period with a compensatory augmentation of atrial contribution to LV filling were observed in most patients. These patients also showed a markedly decreased posterior wall velocity and LV filling rate during rapid filling period. 3. E-F slope was significantly decrease in patients with MS, AS, and HCM. E-F slope correlated well with DPWV and RFR in most patients. In MS, however, DDR decreased to a disproportionate degree with a decrease in DPWV and RFR, probably due to the structural changes and decreased mobility of the mitral valve. From this study, we conclude that the patterns of the left ventricular filling and posterior wall movement during three phases of diastole obtained by echocardiography is useful in detecting left ventricular diastolic abnormalities.", "PMID": 453017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10332", "title": "The significance of carotid bruits in children: transmitted murmur or vascular origin, studies by pulsed Doppler ultrasound.", "content": "Forty-four youngsters with precordial murmurs and carotid bruits were evaluated clinically and independently, using pulsed Doppler ultrasound. The precordial murmur was evaluated with M-mode echocardiography combined with Doppler flow evaluation, and the carotid bruit was evaluated with peripheral vascular sector scan with Doppler flow evaluation. These ultrasonic techniques can identify abnormal blood flow at anatomic sites such as the aortic valve and in the carotid arteries. The patients had no symptoms and their condition, except for six, was mild enough that catheterization was not indicated. The clinical diagnosis of aortic stenosis was made in 30 children, and nine were thought to have no heart disease. On the basis of the ultrasonic examinations, 28 patients were diagnosed as having aortic stenosis and seven subjects had no intracardiac turbulence. However, there was disagreement in 14 instances; four of the six clinical \"normals\" were found to have aortic stenosis by pulsed Doppler echocardiography; six patients diagnosed as having mild aortic stenosis on a clinical basis were found to have no aortic abnormality. The results confirm that aortic stenosis usually presents as a murmur maximal in the aortic area, which is associated with a carotid bruit. Unfortunately, in at least one-fourth of the cases the murmur was not maximal at the aortic area, and a carotid bruit was found in several normal subjects. Since the consequences of over- or under-diagnosis of aortic stenosis are substantial, careful thought should be given to the differential diagnosis, and if possible, pulsed Doppler echocardiography should be utilized for a definitive statement of aortic valve-induced turbulence.", "contents": "The significance of carotid bruits in children: transmitted murmur or vascular origin, studies by pulsed Doppler ultrasound. Forty-four youngsters with precordial murmurs and carotid bruits were evaluated clinically and independently, using pulsed Doppler ultrasound. The precordial murmur was evaluated with M-mode echocardiography combined with Doppler flow evaluation, and the carotid bruit was evaluated with peripheral vascular sector scan with Doppler flow evaluation. These ultrasonic techniques can identify abnormal blood flow at anatomic sites such as the aortic valve and in the carotid arteries. The patients had no symptoms and their condition, except for six, was mild enough that catheterization was not indicated. The clinical diagnosis of aortic stenosis was made in 30 children, and nine were thought to have no heart disease. On the basis of the ultrasonic examinations, 28 patients were diagnosed as having aortic stenosis and seven subjects had no intracardiac turbulence. However, there was disagreement in 14 instances; four of the six clinical \"normals\" were found to have aortic stenosis by pulsed Doppler echocardiography; six patients diagnosed as having mild aortic stenosis on a clinical basis were found to have no aortic abnormality. The results confirm that aortic stenosis usually presents as a murmur maximal in the aortic area, which is associated with a carotid bruit. Unfortunately, in at least one-fourth of the cases the murmur was not maximal at the aortic area, and a carotid bruit was found in several normal subjects. Since the consequences of over- or under-diagnosis of aortic stenosis are substantial, careful thought should be given to the differential diagnosis, and if possible, pulsed Doppler echocardiography should be utilized for a definitive statement of aortic valve-induced turbulence.", "PMID": 453018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10333", "title": "Sensitivity and specificity of echocardiography in the assessment of valve calcification in mitral stenosis.", "content": "Eighty-seven patients (64 females and 23 males) with mitral stenosis were studied by M-mode echocardiography to assess the sensitivity and the specificity of the echocardiographic technique in the identification of valve calcification. The mitral valves were examined at operation, and the amounts of calcium were graded as heavy, light, or absent. We compared this with the amount of calcification assessed by radiographic, previously accepted echocardiographic, and newly derived echocardiographic criteria. In identifying the presence or absence of valve calcification, radiography was the least sensitive (53.7 per cent), but the most specific (90.9 per cent) technique, and has the highest predictive accuracy (90.6 per cent). Previously accepted echocardiographic criteria had the highest sensitivity (92.6 per cent), but the lowest specificity (12.1 per cent), and the lowest predictive accuracy (63.3 per cent). The newly derived echocardiographic parameter MT/ST (ratio between the maximal thickness of the left ventricular margin of the interventricular septum) was both sensitive (75.9 per cent) and specific (81.8 per cent) and also had a predictive accuracy (87.2 per cent) similar to that of radiographic techniques. The MT/ST ratio is demonstrated to be the most useful non-invasive method for assessing valve calcification in mitral stenosis.", "contents": "Sensitivity and specificity of echocardiography in the assessment of valve calcification in mitral stenosis. Eighty-seven patients (64 females and 23 males) with mitral stenosis were studied by M-mode echocardiography to assess the sensitivity and the specificity of the echocardiographic technique in the identification of valve calcification. The mitral valves were examined at operation, and the amounts of calcium were graded as heavy, light, or absent. We compared this with the amount of calcification assessed by radiographic, previously accepted echocardiographic, and newly derived echocardiographic criteria. In identifying the presence or absence of valve calcification, radiography was the least sensitive (53.7 per cent), but the most specific (90.9 per cent) technique, and has the highest predictive accuracy (90.6 per cent). Previously accepted echocardiographic criteria had the highest sensitivity (92.6 per cent), but the lowest specificity (12.1 per cent), and the lowest predictive accuracy (63.3 per cent). The newly derived echocardiographic parameter MT/ST (ratio between the maximal thickness of the left ventricular margin of the interventricular septum) was both sensitive (75.9 per cent) and specific (81.8 per cent) and also had a predictive accuracy (87.2 per cent) similar to that of radiographic techniques. The MT/ST ratio is demonstrated to be the most useful non-invasive method for assessing valve calcification in mitral stenosis.", "PMID": 453019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10334", "title": "Changes in the QRS complex and ST segment in transmural and subendocardial myocardial infarctions. A clinicopathologic study.", "content": "The QRS complex and ST segment in the ECGs of 80 patients who died of an acute myocardial infarction (MI) were studied in relation to the extent of the MI (subendocardial vs. transmural). Changes in the QRS complex developed in nine out of the 15 cases with an acute subendocardial MI. Five of these cases fulfilled the conventional QRS criteria for a myocardial infarction. A definite ST segment depression (a J point depression of 2 mm. or more in at least one lead, and a horizontal or downward sloping ST segment with a minimum duration of 0.08 sec.) occurred most frequently in connection with a circumferential subendocardial MI (88 per cent), but it was also found in a regional subendocardial (43 per cent) and transmural MI (43 per cent). In 17 per cent of the cases with a transmural MI, this was the only ECG abnormality. It is concluded that cases with a subendocardial MI cannot always be distinguished from transmural MI on the basis of the presence or absence of the QRS changes, and that an ST segment depression, as defined in this study, can give additional information in the evaluation of an acute phase of an MI.", "contents": "Changes in the QRS complex and ST segment in transmural and subendocardial myocardial infarctions. A clinicopathologic study. The QRS complex and ST segment in the ECGs of 80 patients who died of an acute myocardial infarction (MI) were studied in relation to the extent of the MI (subendocardial vs. transmural). Changes in the QRS complex developed in nine out of the 15 cases with an acute subendocardial MI. Five of these cases fulfilled the conventional QRS criteria for a myocardial infarction. A definite ST segment depression (a J point depression of 2 mm. or more in at least one lead, and a horizontal or downward sloping ST segment with a minimum duration of 0.08 sec.) occurred most frequently in connection with a circumferential subendocardial MI (88 per cent), but it was also found in a regional subendocardial (43 per cent) and transmural MI (43 per cent). In 17 per cent of the cases with a transmural MI, this was the only ECG abnormality. It is concluded that cases with a subendocardial MI cannot always be distinguished from transmural MI on the basis of the presence or absence of the QRS changes, and that an ST segment depression, as defined in this study, can give additional information in the evaluation of an acute phase of an MI.", "PMID": 453020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10335", "title": "Electrocardiographic and serum enzymic alterations associated with cardiac alterations induced in dogs by single transthoracic damped sinusoidal defibrillator shocks of various strengths.", "content": "The safety margin between the strength of shock needed to defibrillate the ventricle and shocks which produce cardiac damage has not previously been reported. This study quantitates the shock intensity required to produce ECG alterations, serum alpha-1LDH and MB CPK isoenzyme elevation and myocardial damage using single transchest damped sinusoidal defibrillator shocks. Shocks of 1 to 20 amperes per Kg. of body weight were applied. Fifty-six dog weighing 2.4 to 15 kilograms were shocked with defibrillator pulses via 10 centimeter diameter electrodes applied to the thorax. Electrocardiograms were taken to be analyzed for arrhythmias, S-T segment changes, and T wave changes. Serum enzyme levels were determined in 25 dogs. Macroscopic and histopathologic studies were conducted on the hearts. Transchest single damped sine wave shocks did not produce microscopically detectable cardiac damage until at least a threefold current overdose was applied. No macroscopic morphologic alterations were observed until at least a sixfold current overdose was applied and no deaths occurred until a twelvefold or greater current overdose was delivered. Incidence and severity of ECG changes, increase in serum enzyme activity, incidence and severity of cardiac damage, and incidence of mortality all correlated positively with shock strength. However, these four adverse effects did not correlate well with each other. Transient ECG changes were very frequent following shock application regardless of the morphologic damage produced, and hence the transient changes have little value as indicators or predictors of damage. Persistent ECG changes were predictive of morphologic changes but were not sensitive enough to detect damage in mildly injured hearts. Likewise, elevated serum cardiac isoenzyme activity was a reliable but insensitive indicator of damage.", "contents": "Electrocardiographic and serum enzymic alterations associated with cardiac alterations induced in dogs by single transthoracic damped sinusoidal defibrillator shocks of various strengths. The safety margin between the strength of shock needed to defibrillate the ventricle and shocks which produce cardiac damage has not previously been reported. This study quantitates the shock intensity required to produce ECG alterations, serum alpha-1LDH and MB CPK isoenzyme elevation and myocardial damage using single transchest damped sinusoidal defibrillator shocks. Shocks of 1 to 20 amperes per Kg. of body weight were applied. Fifty-six dog weighing 2.4 to 15 kilograms were shocked with defibrillator pulses via 10 centimeter diameter electrodes applied to the thorax. Electrocardiograms were taken to be analyzed for arrhythmias, S-T segment changes, and T wave changes. Serum enzyme levels were determined in 25 dogs. Macroscopic and histopathologic studies were conducted on the hearts. Transchest single damped sine wave shocks did not produce microscopically detectable cardiac damage until at least a threefold current overdose was applied. No macroscopic morphologic alterations were observed until at least a sixfold current overdose was applied and no deaths occurred until a twelvefold or greater current overdose was delivered. Incidence and severity of ECG changes, increase in serum enzyme activity, incidence and severity of cardiac damage, and incidence of mortality all correlated positively with shock strength. However, these four adverse effects did not correlate well with each other. Transient ECG changes were very frequent following shock application regardless of the morphologic damage produced, and hence the transient changes have little value as indicators or predictors of damage. Persistent ECG changes were predictive of morphologic changes but were not sensitive enough to detect damage in mildly injured hearts. Likewise, elevated serum cardiac isoenzyme activity was a reliable but insensitive indicator of damage.", "PMID": 453021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10336", "title": "The normal anatomy of the atrial septum in the human heart.", "content": "The atrial septum is a blade-shaped structure with a concave anterior margin that reflects the curve of the ascending aorta, a convex posterior margin, and an inferior margin along the mitral annulus. The fossa ovalis comprises an average of 28 per cent of the total septal area, or 43 mm.2 in infants and 240 mm.2 in adults. The channel that persists between the fossa ovalis and the muscular atrial septum is patent except at the limbus, providing a useful explanation for the success of blunt transseptal atrial catheterization and right-to-left shunts in individuals with elevated right atrial pressure.", "contents": "The normal anatomy of the atrial septum in the human heart. The atrial septum is a blade-shaped structure with a concave anterior margin that reflects the curve of the ascending aorta, a convex posterior margin, and an inferior margin along the mitral annulus. The fossa ovalis comprises an average of 28 per cent of the total septal area, or 43 mm.2 in infants and 240 mm.2 in adults. The channel that persists between the fossa ovalis and the muscular atrial septum is patent except at the limbus, providing a useful explanation for the success of blunt transseptal atrial catheterization and right-to-left shunts in individuals with elevated right atrial pressure.", "PMID": 453022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10337", "title": "Reduction in ventricular endocardial and epicardial potentials during acute increments in left ventricular dimensions.", "content": "Unipolar potentials were recorded from the endocardium (Endo-Pot) and the epicardium (Epi-Pot) of the left and right ventricles of anesthetized open-chested dogs during acute changes in left ventricular dimension by blood transfusion. A pair of implanted ultrasonic crystals were used to detail changes in left ventricular (LV) anteroposterior diameter. When the diameter increased by an average of 11 per cent, LV Endo-Pot decreased by 28 per cent and LV Epi-Pot decreased by 15 per cent. Right ventricular Endo-Pot and Epi-Pot concurrently decreased by similar magnitude (-36 per cent). The relationship between potentials and LV diameter showed negative linearity over the ranges examined, and was not influenced by changes in hematocrit. No inverse relation between changes in Endo-Pot and Epi-Pot was observed. It is suggested that potentials when recorded directly from the endocardium or epicardium mainly reflect the electrical activity of the tissues in the immediate vicinity of the electrode. It is postulated that an increase in ventricular volume by producing stretching and thinning of ventricular walls, reduces the effective tissue mass represented in the electrode signal, thereby accounting for a reduction in both endo and epicardial potentials. Although the precise mechanisms of changes in ventricular potentials remains unclear, such changes, nevertheless, may indicate, in clinical circumstances, an acute shift in left ventricular volume.", "contents": "Reduction in ventricular endocardial and epicardial potentials during acute increments in left ventricular dimensions. Unipolar potentials were recorded from the endocardium (Endo-Pot) and the epicardium (Epi-Pot) of the left and right ventricles of anesthetized open-chested dogs during acute changes in left ventricular dimension by blood transfusion. A pair of implanted ultrasonic crystals were used to detail changes in left ventricular (LV) anteroposterior diameter. When the diameter increased by an average of 11 per cent, LV Endo-Pot decreased by 28 per cent and LV Epi-Pot decreased by 15 per cent. Right ventricular Endo-Pot and Epi-Pot concurrently decreased by similar magnitude (-36 per cent). The relationship between potentials and LV diameter showed negative linearity over the ranges examined, and was not influenced by changes in hematocrit. No inverse relation between changes in Endo-Pot and Epi-Pot was observed. It is suggested that potentials when recorded directly from the endocardium or epicardium mainly reflect the electrical activity of the tissues in the immediate vicinity of the electrode. It is postulated that an increase in ventricular volume by producing stretching and thinning of ventricular walls, reduces the effective tissue mass represented in the electrode signal, thereby accounting for a reduction in both endo and epicardial potentials. Although the precise mechanisms of changes in ventricular potentials remains unclear, such changes, nevertheless, may indicate, in clinical circumstances, an acute shift in left ventricular volume.", "PMID": 453023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10338", "title": "The electrophysiologic effects of intravenous propranolol in the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.", "content": "Fourteen patients with the Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome were studied by means of intracardiac stimulation techniques, before and after the intravenous administration of propranolol, 0.1 mg./Kg. There were no significant change, or only a slight increase, in the effective refractory periods of all parts of the re-entry tachycardia circuit studied, in either anterograde or retrograde directions. Re-entry tachycardia was initiated in nine patients in the control state, and in 10 patients after propranolol. The rate of re-entry atrioventricular node-accessory pathway tachycardia was decreased, but by only 10 per cent. The duration and outer limit of the tachycardia zone of atrial extrastimuli were not significantly decreased. Propranolol, by rapid intravenous infusion administration, is unlikely to be effective primary therapy for PSVT in the WPW syndrome.", "contents": "The electrophysiologic effects of intravenous propranolol in the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Fourteen patients with the Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome were studied by means of intracardiac stimulation techniques, before and after the intravenous administration of propranolol, 0.1 mg./Kg. There were no significant change, or only a slight increase, in the effective refractory periods of all parts of the re-entry tachycardia circuit studied, in either anterograde or retrograde directions. Re-entry tachycardia was initiated in nine patients in the control state, and in 10 patients after propranolol. The rate of re-entry atrioventricular node-accessory pathway tachycardia was decreased, but by only 10 per cent. The duration and outer limit of the tachycardia zone of atrial extrastimuli were not significantly decreased. Propranolol, by rapid intravenous infusion administration, is unlikely to be effective primary therapy for PSVT in the WPW syndrome.", "PMID": 453024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10339", "title": "Left atrial myxoma: false negative echocardiographic findings in a tumor demonstrated by coronary arteriography.", "content": "A report of left atrial myxoma discovered at coronary arteriography by virtue of unusual tumor \"vascularity\" is presented in which establishing the diagnosis by means of echocardiography proved difficult. The difficulty may have been due to the highly vascular nature of the tumor with resultant loss of the acoustic reflectivity required for echocardiographic demonstration. Previous cases in which left atrial myxomas have shown arteriographically demonstrable \"tumor vascularity\" are reviewed.", "contents": "Left atrial myxoma: false negative echocardiographic findings in a tumor demonstrated by coronary arteriography. A report of left atrial myxoma discovered at coronary arteriography by virtue of unusual tumor \"vascularity\" is presented in which establishing the diagnosis by means of echocardiography proved difficult. The difficulty may have been due to the highly vascular nature of the tumor with resultant loss of the acoustic reflectivity required for echocardiographic demonstration. Previous cases in which left atrial myxomas have shown arteriographically demonstrable \"tumor vascularity\" are reviewed.", "PMID": 453026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10340", "title": "Atrial induction of ventricular tachycardia: reentry versus triggered automaticity.", "content": "Atrial stimulation induced a sustained ventricular tachycardia in two patients with mitral valve prolapse and in one patient who had mild hypertension without cardiac abnormalities. Exercise-induced sinus tachycardia also started the ventricular tachycardia in one patient. Evidence is presented to suggest that the mechanism of ventricular tachycardia in one patient was reentrant excitation and in another patient triggered automaticity. It is likely that the origin of the ventricular tachycardia was confined to a relatively protected small area near the posteroinferior portion of the left ventricle and was not due to macroreentry.", "contents": "Atrial induction of ventricular tachycardia: reentry versus triggered automaticity. Atrial stimulation induced a sustained ventricular tachycardia in two patients with mitral valve prolapse and in one patient who had mild hypertension without cardiac abnormalities. Exercise-induced sinus tachycardia also started the ventricular tachycardia in one patient. Evidence is presented to suggest that the mechanism of ventricular tachycardia in one patient was reentrant excitation and in another patient triggered automaticity. It is likely that the origin of the ventricular tachycardia was confined to a relatively protected small area near the posteroinferior portion of the left ventricle and was not due to macroreentry.", "PMID": 453035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10341", "title": "Congenital bilateral subclavian steal: ductus-dependent symptoms in interrupted aortic arch associated with ventricular septal defect.", "content": "There are two types of congenital bilateral subclavian steal. The first type is accompanied by severe coarctation or interruption of the aorta in which both the right and left subclavian arteries have their origin distal to the obstruction in the aorta. In most cases with complete interruption of the aorta there is a large ventricular septal defect. The second, less common type of steal is associated with isolated atresia of the proximal segment of the subclavian arteries. In the first type of steal, the anatomic predisposition for the steal is present from birth but clinical symptoms frequently do not appear until childhood or adolescence. In the newborn the presence of a widely patent duclus arteriosus and its capacity to transmit the flow and pressure from a hypertensive pulmonary artery to the descending aorta and thus to the subclavian arteries prevents cerebral symptoms and angiographic signs, but in the older infant and child, the internal diameter of the ductus has usually decreased, leading to symptoms of the subclavian steal syndrome.", "contents": "Congenital bilateral subclavian steal: ductus-dependent symptoms in interrupted aortic arch associated with ventricular septal defect. There are two types of congenital bilateral subclavian steal. The first type is accompanied by severe coarctation or interruption of the aorta in which both the right and left subclavian arteries have their origin distal to the obstruction in the aorta. In most cases with complete interruption of the aorta there is a large ventricular septal defect. The second, less common type of steal is associated with isolated atresia of the proximal segment of the subclavian arteries. In the first type of steal, the anatomic predisposition for the steal is present from birth but clinical symptoms frequently do not appear until childhood or adolescence. In the newborn the presence of a widely patent duclus arteriosus and its capacity to transmit the flow and pressure from a hypertensive pulmonary artery to the descending aorta and thus to the subclavian arteries prevents cerebral symptoms and angiographic signs, but in the older infant and child, the internal diameter of the ductus has usually decreased, leading to symptoms of the subclavian steal syndrome.", "PMID": 453036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10342", "title": "Cardiocirculatory effects of afterload reduction with oral trimazosin in severe chronic congestive heart failure.", "content": "Because improved long-term oral vasodilator therapy for chronic congestive heart failure is needed, the cardiocirculatory effects of the new antihypertensive quinazoline derivative, trimazosin, were evaluated with use of concomitant cardiac catheterization and forearm plethysmography in nine patients with severe chronic congestive heart failure due to coronary disease. After ingestion of 100 to 300 mg (average 172 mg) of trimazosin, the greatly elevated left ventricular filling pressure decreased from 30 to 23 mm Hg and the lowered cardiac index rose from 2.02 to 2.59 liters/min per m2. Considerable improvement in cardiac function occurred within 1 hour after ingestion of trimazosin; peak efficacy was achieved after 2 hours and persisted in the 3rd hour. Heart rate was unchanged and systemic blood pressure was mildly reduced. Because pump performance was enhanced while indexes of myocardial oxygen consumption declined, ventricular efficiency increased. Vascular relaxation was produced in both the systemic resistance and capacitance beds, with venodilation slightly more prominent. This clinical investigation of the acute hemodynamic effects of trimazosin objectively demonstrates that the drug provides considerable hemodynamic benefit in cardiac dysfunction and is therefore a potentially salutary agent for treatment of patients with chronic severe congestive heart failure.", "contents": "Cardiocirculatory effects of afterload reduction with oral trimazosin in severe chronic congestive heart failure. Because improved long-term oral vasodilator therapy for chronic congestive heart failure is needed, the cardiocirculatory effects of the new antihypertensive quinazoline derivative, trimazosin, were evaluated with use of concomitant cardiac catheterization and forearm plethysmography in nine patients with severe chronic congestive heart failure due to coronary disease. After ingestion of 100 to 300 mg (average 172 mg) of trimazosin, the greatly elevated left ventricular filling pressure decreased from 30 to 23 mm Hg and the lowered cardiac index rose from 2.02 to 2.59 liters/min per m2. Considerable improvement in cardiac function occurred within 1 hour after ingestion of trimazosin; peak efficacy was achieved after 2 hours and persisted in the 3rd hour. Heart rate was unchanged and systemic blood pressure was mildly reduced. Because pump performance was enhanced while indexes of myocardial oxygen consumption declined, ventricular efficiency increased. Vascular relaxation was produced in both the systemic resistance and capacitance beds, with venodilation slightly more prominent. This clinical investigation of the acute hemodynamic effects of trimazosin objectively demonstrates that the drug provides considerable hemodynamic benefit in cardiac dysfunction and is therefore a potentially salutary agent for treatment of patients with chronic severe congestive heart failure.", "PMID": 453037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10343", "title": "Acute effects of oral propranolol on hemodynamic responses to upright exercise.", "content": "Noninvasive measurements of maximal oxygen intake and invasive measurement of systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures, arterial and mixed venous oxygen contents and direct Fick cardiac output are reported for 3 healthy men and 14 men with coronary heart disease. Observations were obtained at supine and sitting rest, during graded levels of upright exercise on a treadmill up to symptom-limited maximal effort and in two periods of recovery. The effects of 40 mg of propranolol orally were ascertained by repeating the measurements 1 to 1 1/2 hours later. The most consistent effect of propranolol was reduction of pressure-rate products at all phases; slowing of heart rate was significant only during exercise and recovery, and the greater slowing was accompanied by a significant increase in stroke volume. These changes were similar in patients with and without evidence of left ventricular impairment greater than 15 percent on exercise testing. Maximal oxygen intake decreased in healthy subjects and decreased slightly in patients with coronary heart disease with less than 15 percent left ventricular impairment or percent deviation of pressure-rate product from age-predicted normal values during the control study. Maximal oxygen intake increased in patients with more than 15 percent left ventricular impairment. Arterial-mixed venous oxygen difference increased after propranolol because of a reduction of mixed-venous oxygen content attributed to greater peripheral extraction of oxygen.", "contents": "Acute effects of oral propranolol on hemodynamic responses to upright exercise. Noninvasive measurements of maximal oxygen intake and invasive measurement of systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures, arterial and mixed venous oxygen contents and direct Fick cardiac output are reported for 3 healthy men and 14 men with coronary heart disease. Observations were obtained at supine and sitting rest, during graded levels of upright exercise on a treadmill up to symptom-limited maximal effort and in two periods of recovery. The effects of 40 mg of propranolol orally were ascertained by repeating the measurements 1 to 1 1/2 hours later. The most consistent effect of propranolol was reduction of pressure-rate products at all phases; slowing of heart rate was significant only during exercise and recovery, and the greater slowing was accompanied by a significant increase in stroke volume. These changes were similar in patients with and without evidence of left ventricular impairment greater than 15 percent on exercise testing. Maximal oxygen intake decreased in healthy subjects and decreased slightly in patients with coronary heart disease with less than 15 percent left ventricular impairment or percent deviation of pressure-rate product from age-predicted normal values during the control study. Maximal oxygen intake increased in patients with more than 15 percent left ventricular impairment. Arterial-mixed venous oxygen difference increased after propranolol because of a reduction of mixed-venous oxygen content attributed to greater peripheral extraction of oxygen.", "PMID": 453038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10344", "title": "Coronary calcification in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease.", "content": "Clinical, postmortem and angiographic studies of coronary calcification are reviewed to define the value of fluoroscopy in the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease. Autopsy studies consistently show a unique association between calcification of the coronary arteries and atherosclerosis. The relation of coronary calcification to the presence of major stenosis is more variable but is strong enough to be of clinical value, particularly in the younger subject. The diagnostic value of fluoroscopy can be improved by attention to the detailed features of calcification observed with the technique. Combined use of fluoroscopy and exercise testing appears to be a valid and as yet unexploited approach to the noninvasive diagnosis of coronary stenosis. Fluoroscopy has been a neglected method of noninvasive diagnosis and is sufficiently promising to warrant greater clinical use.", "contents": "Coronary calcification in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease. Clinical, postmortem and angiographic studies of coronary calcification are reviewed to define the value of fluoroscopy in the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease. Autopsy studies consistently show a unique association between calcification of the coronary arteries and atherosclerosis. The relation of coronary calcification to the presence of major stenosis is more variable but is strong enough to be of clinical value, particularly in the younger subject. The diagnostic value of fluoroscopy can be improved by attention to the detailed features of calcification observed with the technique. Combined use of fluoroscopy and exercise testing appears to be a valid and as yet unexploited approach to the noninvasive diagnosis of coronary stenosis. Fluoroscopy has been a neglected method of noninvasive diagnosis and is sufficiently promising to warrant greater clinical use.", "PMID": 453039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10345", "title": "Echocardiographic findings in patients with left superior vena cava and dilated coronary sinus.", "content": "Three patients with a left superior vena cava draining into a dilated coronary sinus were studied with cardiac catheterization and echocardiography. The diagnosis was confirmed at operation in two patients. A posterior echo-free space was filled with echoes during injection of contrast medium into the left but not the right arm. This echo-free space was localized to the left atrioventricular groove. This technique established the presence of a left superior vena cava communicating with the coronary sinus and excluded pericardial effusion as the source of the posterior echo-free space.", "contents": "Echocardiographic findings in patients with left superior vena cava and dilated coronary sinus. Three patients with a left superior vena cava draining into a dilated coronary sinus were studied with cardiac catheterization and echocardiography. The diagnosis was confirmed at operation in two patients. A posterior echo-free space was filled with echoes during injection of contrast medium into the left but not the right arm. This echo-free space was localized to the left atrioventricular groove. This technique established the presence of a left superior vena cava communicating with the coronary sinus and excluded pericardial effusion as the source of the posterior echo-free space.", "PMID": 453040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10346", "title": "Multiple reentrant tachycardias due to retrograde conduction of dual atrioventricular bundles with atrioventricular nodal-like properties.", "content": "A patient is presented who had two paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias, one slow and incessant and the other fast. Both paroxysmal tachycardias appeared to be atrioventricular (A-V) reentrant, with anterograde conduction by way of a normal A-V pathway. Two pathways conducting in retrograde manner were demonstrated, characterized by different conduction times (fast and slow), identical abnormal atrial activation sequence and A-V nodal-like properties (retrograde Wenckebach periodicity with rapid ventricular pacing, and depression with ouabain and propranolol). Thus, there appeared to be two anomalous A-V bundles with nodal-like properties conducting in retrograde fashion. Whether the paroxysmal tachycardia was fast or slow depended on which of these pathways was utilized. Spontaneous cure of incessant paroxysmal tachycardia was observed and coincided with unexplained total loss of ability for ventriculoatrial conduction.", "contents": "Multiple reentrant tachycardias due to retrograde conduction of dual atrioventricular bundles with atrioventricular nodal-like properties. A patient is presented who had two paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias, one slow and incessant and the other fast. Both paroxysmal tachycardias appeared to be atrioventricular (A-V) reentrant, with anterograde conduction by way of a normal A-V pathway. Two pathways conducting in retrograde manner were demonstrated, characterized by different conduction times (fast and slow), identical abnormal atrial activation sequence and A-V nodal-like properties (retrograde Wenckebach periodicity with rapid ventricular pacing, and depression with ouabain and propranolol). Thus, there appeared to be two anomalous A-V bundles with nodal-like properties conducting in retrograde fashion. Whether the paroxysmal tachycardia was fast or slow depended on which of these pathways was utilized. Spontaneous cure of incessant paroxysmal tachycardia was observed and coincided with unexplained total loss of ability for ventriculoatrial conduction.", "PMID": 453041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10347", "title": "Massive coronary arterial aneurysm.", "content": "The pathologic and echocardiographic findings of a massive right coronary arterial aneurysm in a 62 year old man are presented. The thrombosed aneurysm simulated a cardiac tumor, destroying one pulmonary valve cusp. It also caused marked pulmonary stenosis with elongation and narrowing of the outflow tract of the right ventricle and fixation of half of one cusp of the tricuspid valve.", "contents": "Massive coronary arterial aneurysm. The pathologic and echocardiographic findings of a massive right coronary arterial aneurysm in a 62 year old man are presented. The thrombosed aneurysm simulated a cardiac tumor, destroying one pulmonary valve cusp. It also caused marked pulmonary stenosis with elongation and narrowing of the outflow tract of the right ventricle and fixation of half of one cusp of the tricuspid valve.", "PMID": 453043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10348", "title": "Submitral calcification or sclerosis in elderly patients: M mode and two dimensional echocardiography in \"mitral anulus calcification\".", "content": "Submitral calcification or sclerosis was visualized with M mode echocardiography in 84 elderly patients, 35 of whom were also studied with two dimensional echocardiography. Posterior submitral calcification, commonly referred to as \"mitral anulus calcification,\" was present in 82 patients and was located in the angle between the posterior mitral leaflet and left ventricular posterior wall, rather than in the mitral anulus proper. M mode scans from the left ventricle to the left atrium showed that posterior submitral calcification ended abruptly in 66 cases, and in these it became contiguous with the posterior atrioventricular junction (true mitral anulus) in only 14 instances, in 16 patients the posterior submitral calcification sloped anteriorly to merge with the posterior aortic root. Anterior submitral calcification was visualized in 12 patients, 10 of whom also had posterior submitral calcification. Anterior submitral calcification was usually located immediately anterior to the base of the anterior mitral cusp. In two cases, if appeared to arise in the region between the aortic and mitral rings; in one instance, it was located in the mid left ventricle, in the mitral chordal region. We suggest that the terms anterior and posterior submitral calcification are more appropriate than \"mitral anulus calcification\" because in most cases such calcific deposits do not appear to be located in or to arise from the true mitral anulus.", "contents": "Submitral calcification or sclerosis in elderly patients: M mode and two dimensional echocardiography in \"mitral anulus calcification\". Submitral calcification or sclerosis was visualized with M mode echocardiography in 84 elderly patients, 35 of whom were also studied with two dimensional echocardiography. Posterior submitral calcification, commonly referred to as \"mitral anulus calcification,\" was present in 82 patients and was located in the angle between the posterior mitral leaflet and left ventricular posterior wall, rather than in the mitral anulus proper. M mode scans from the left ventricle to the left atrium showed that posterior submitral calcification ended abruptly in 66 cases, and in these it became contiguous with the posterior atrioventricular junction (true mitral anulus) in only 14 instances, in 16 patients the posterior submitral calcification sloped anteriorly to merge with the posterior aortic root. Anterior submitral calcification was visualized in 12 patients, 10 of whom also had posterior submitral calcification. Anterior submitral calcification was usually located immediately anterior to the base of the anterior mitral cusp. In two cases, if appeared to arise in the region between the aortic and mitral rings; in one instance, it was located in the mid left ventricle, in the mitral chordal region. We suggest that the terms anterior and posterior submitral calcification are more appropriate than \"mitral anulus calcification\" because in most cases such calcific deposits do not appear to be located in or to arise from the true mitral anulus.", "PMID": 453044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10349", "title": "Assessment of drug intervention on the ischemic myocardium: serial imaging and measurement with computerized tomography.", "content": "Computerized tomography was evaluated as a technique for imaging and measuring the effect of an intervention on acutely ischemic myocardium. Because cell edema occurs with acute myocardial ischemia and decreases the X-ray attenuation coefficients (tissue density) of myocardium, computerized tomographic images were used to quantitate the effect of hyperosmotic mannitol on ischemia-induced edema. Canine hearts were arrested and scanned after (1) temporary occlusion of the proximal circumflex artery followed by reflow of blood, or (2) continued occlusion of the distal left anterior descending coronary artery. X-ray attenuation values (Hounsfield units) were linearly related to tissue wet/dry weight ratios (r = 0.87, P less than 0.001). After 2 hours of occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery the hearts that received mannitol manifested a significant reduction (P less than 0.05) in the volume of left ventricular wall involved with edema. Although the area of edema measured with computerized tomography tended to be smaller in the hearts treated with mannitol than in untreated hearts subjected to a 6 hour occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, the size of the lesion was variable and did not differ significantly from that in untreated hearts. With either short periods of circumflex arterial occlusion followed by blood reflow or with 2 or 6 hours of prolonged occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, the difference in mean attenuation coefficients between the ischemic and nonischemic areas of myocardium in mannitol-treated and untreated hearts was significantly less. These results indicate that computerized tomography in the arrested heart can detect and quantitate the lesion of early acute myocardial ischemia and can quantitate the effect of drug intervention.", "contents": "Assessment of drug intervention on the ischemic myocardium: serial imaging and measurement with computerized tomography. Computerized tomography was evaluated as a technique for imaging and measuring the effect of an intervention on acutely ischemic myocardium. Because cell edema occurs with acute myocardial ischemia and decreases the X-ray attenuation coefficients (tissue density) of myocardium, computerized tomographic images were used to quantitate the effect of hyperosmotic mannitol on ischemia-induced edema. Canine hearts were arrested and scanned after (1) temporary occlusion of the proximal circumflex artery followed by reflow of blood, or (2) continued occlusion of the distal left anterior descending coronary artery. X-ray attenuation values (Hounsfield units) were linearly related to tissue wet/dry weight ratios (r = 0.87, P less than 0.001). After 2 hours of occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery the hearts that received mannitol manifested a significant reduction (P less than 0.05) in the volume of left ventricular wall involved with edema. Although the area of edema measured with computerized tomography tended to be smaller in the hearts treated with mannitol than in untreated hearts subjected to a 6 hour occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, the size of the lesion was variable and did not differ significantly from that in untreated hearts. With either short periods of circumflex arterial occlusion followed by blood reflow or with 2 or 6 hours of prolonged occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, the difference in mean attenuation coefficients between the ischemic and nonischemic areas of myocardium in mannitol-treated and untreated hearts was significantly less. These results indicate that computerized tomography in the arrested heart can detect and quantitate the lesion of early acute myocardial ischemia and can quantitate the effect of drug intervention.", "PMID": 453045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10350", "title": "Prognosis after initial myocardial infarction: the Framingham study.", "content": "During 20 years of follow-up of 5,127 men and women initially free of coronary heart disease in the Framingham cohort, 193 men and 53 women had one or more recognized, symptomatic myocardial infarctions. An additional 45 men and 28 women had unrecognized myocardial infarctions. Subsequent mortality and morbidity including angina, reinfarction, congestive failure and sudden death were ascertained. One in five men who had a first myocardial infarction died within 1 year, a mortality rate 14 times that of those free of coronary heart disease. In men who survived the 1st year, a recognized myocardial infarction increased risk of death over the next 5 years to 23 percent, four times that of the general population. The next 5 years carried a 25 percent mortality (three times that of the general population). The prognosis was distinctly worse in women than in men chiefly because of a higher (45 percent) early mortality rate in women. Patients with recognized and unrecognized myocardial infarctions had similar survival rates after 3 years. A second myocardial infarction occurred in 13 percent of the men and in 40 percent of the women within 5 years of the first infarction. Thus, women were more prone to death and reinfarction than men. Congestive heart failure occurred as commonly as reinfarction, affliction 14 percent of the men within 5 years of the initial infarction. Once congestive failure ensued, half of the affected patients were dead within 5 years. Angina developed in one third of the patients within 5 years of their first infarction.", "contents": "Prognosis after initial myocardial infarction: the Framingham study. During 20 years of follow-up of 5,127 men and women initially free of coronary heart disease in the Framingham cohort, 193 men and 53 women had one or more recognized, symptomatic myocardial infarctions. An additional 45 men and 28 women had unrecognized myocardial infarctions. Subsequent mortality and morbidity including angina, reinfarction, congestive failure and sudden death were ascertained. One in five men who had a first myocardial infarction died within 1 year, a mortality rate 14 times that of those free of coronary heart disease. In men who survived the 1st year, a recognized myocardial infarction increased risk of death over the next 5 years to 23 percent, four times that of the general population. The next 5 years carried a 25 percent mortality (three times that of the general population). The prognosis was distinctly worse in women than in men chiefly because of a higher (45 percent) early mortality rate in women. Patients with recognized and unrecognized myocardial infarctions had similar survival rates after 3 years. A second myocardial infarction occurred in 13 percent of the men and in 40 percent of the women within 5 years of the first infarction. Thus, women were more prone to death and reinfarction than men. Congestive heart failure occurred as commonly as reinfarction, affliction 14 percent of the men within 5 years of the initial infarction. Once congestive failure ensued, half of the affected patients were dead within 5 years. Angina developed in one third of the patients within 5 years of their first infarction.", "PMID": 453046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10351", "title": "Familial occurrence of coronary heart disease: effect of age at diagnosis.", "content": "The occurrence of coronary heart disease and its main risk factors were assessed among the first degree relatives of 309 men from South and East Finland, including 203 men with fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction and 106 healthy reference men under age 56 years. The younger the patient at the diagnosis of a first myocardial infarction, the more common was coronary heart disease in his parents and siblings. The risk of having coronary heart disease by age 55 was, respectively, 11.4, 8.3 and 1.3 times greater in the South and 6.7, 3.6 and 1.8 times greater in the East for the brothers of patients than for the brothers of reference subjects depending on whether the diagnosis of myocardial infarction in the patient had first been established before the age of 46 years of age 46 to 50 years or at age 51 to 55 years. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia, but none of the other risk factors studied, were most common among the relatives of the youngest patients and diminished in frequency with advancing age of the patient. Most of the strong familial component in coronary heart disease of early onset thus appears to be mediated by familial hyperlipidemias and hypertension. It is suggested that the risk of premature coronary heart disease in the persons at highest risk could be largely eliminated if information about family history were used to identify such persons at an early stage and if they were treated properly for their correctable risk factors.", "contents": "Familial occurrence of coronary heart disease: effect of age at diagnosis. The occurrence of coronary heart disease and its main risk factors were assessed among the first degree relatives of 309 men from South and East Finland, including 203 men with fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction and 106 healthy reference men under age 56 years. The younger the patient at the diagnosis of a first myocardial infarction, the more common was coronary heart disease in his parents and siblings. The risk of having coronary heart disease by age 55 was, respectively, 11.4, 8.3 and 1.3 times greater in the South and 6.7, 3.6 and 1.8 times greater in the East for the brothers of patients than for the brothers of reference subjects depending on whether the diagnosis of myocardial infarction in the patient had first been established before the age of 46 years of age 46 to 50 years or at age 51 to 55 years. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia, but none of the other risk factors studied, were most common among the relatives of the youngest patients and diminished in frequency with advancing age of the patient. Most of the strong familial component in coronary heart disease of early onset thus appears to be mediated by familial hyperlipidemias and hypertension. It is suggested that the risk of premature coronary heart disease in the persons at highest risk could be largely eliminated if information about family history were used to identify such persons at an early stage and if they were treated properly for their correctable risk factors.", "PMID": 453047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10352", "title": "Sensitivity and specificity of MB creatine kinase activity determined with column chromatography.", "content": "Several analytic techniques are used to estimate the activity of creatine kinase (CK) isoenzymes. These techniques are undergoing continual refinement because the MB CK molecule appears to be nearly cardiospecific. An improved column chromatographic assay is presented with a lower limit of analytic detection of 0.8 mlU/ml. The assay was applied to normal subjects and to patients with myocardial infarction and with complex disease states. Results of the column chromatography were compared with those of agarose and cellulose acetate electrophoresis. There was MB CK activity in all normal sera (no. = 19, mean +/- standard deviation = 2.4 +/- 7). After acute myocardial infarction the MB CK activity increased by 650 percent (no. = 86, mean +/- standard error of the mean = 158.2 +/- 12.6 mlU/ml). The sensitivity for myocardial infarction was 100 percent. The specificity, evaluated in multiple clinical states, approached 100 percent. The column assay was compared with both agarose and cellulose acetate electrophoresis, and poor correlations with these semiquantitative systems were demonstrated. Finally, peak MB CK activity was closely correlated with kinetic analyses used to estimate infarct size (r = 0.94). Thus, column chromatography is a sensitive and specific method of estimating MB creatine kinase activity and is more precise than current electrophoretic methods.", "contents": "Sensitivity and specificity of MB creatine kinase activity determined with column chromatography. Several analytic techniques are used to estimate the activity of creatine kinase (CK) isoenzymes. These techniques are undergoing continual refinement because the MB CK molecule appears to be nearly cardiospecific. An improved column chromatographic assay is presented with a lower limit of analytic detection of 0.8 mlU/ml. The assay was applied to normal subjects and to patients with myocardial infarction and with complex disease states. Results of the column chromatography were compared with those of agarose and cellulose acetate electrophoresis. There was MB CK activity in all normal sera (no. = 19, mean +/- standard deviation = 2.4 +/- 7). After acute myocardial infarction the MB CK activity increased by 650 percent (no. = 86, mean +/- standard error of the mean = 158.2 +/- 12.6 mlU/ml). The sensitivity for myocardial infarction was 100 percent. The specificity, evaluated in multiple clinical states, approached 100 percent. The column assay was compared with both agarose and cellulose acetate electrophoresis, and poor correlations with these semiquantitative systems were demonstrated. Finally, peak MB CK activity was closely correlated with kinetic analyses used to estimate infarct size (r = 0.94). Thus, column chromatography is a sensitive and specific method of estimating MB creatine kinase activity and is more precise than current electrophoretic methods.", "PMID": 453048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10353", "title": "Echocardiographic screening to assess the severity of congenital aortic valve stenosis in children.", "content": "Recent reports suggest that peak left ventricular systolic pressure can be estimated from the echocardiogram. This study compares the accuracy of echocardiographic measurements with clinical estimates of severity of aortic stenosis derived from information of the Joint Natural History Study. Twenty-seven children with isolated aortic valve stensosis were evaluated clinically and with echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. From the echocardiograms, the ratio of systolic left ventricular wall thickness to internal dimension (Ws/Ds) showed a better correlation (r = 0.82) with peak left ventricular systolic pressure than did the diastolic ratio. However, there was significant variation so that a precise estimate of peak left ventricular systolic pressure could not be made from the echocardiogram. Eight of the 27 patients had a normal Ws/Ds ratio (0.55 or less), and their cardiac catheterization data revealed mild aortic stenosis not requiring operation. In contrast, clinical criteria based on the Natural History Study identified only three of the patients with mild aortic stenosis. Prospective studies are needed to confirm the usefulness of echocardiography in noninvasive evaluation of children with aortic valve stenosis.", "contents": "Echocardiographic screening to assess the severity of congenital aortic valve stenosis in children. Recent reports suggest that peak left ventricular systolic pressure can be estimated from the echocardiogram. This study compares the accuracy of echocardiographic measurements with clinical estimates of severity of aortic stenosis derived from information of the Joint Natural History Study. Twenty-seven children with isolated aortic valve stensosis were evaluated clinically and with echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. From the echocardiograms, the ratio of systolic left ventricular wall thickness to internal dimension (Ws/Ds) showed a better correlation (r = 0.82) with peak left ventricular systolic pressure than did the diastolic ratio. However, there was significant variation so that a precise estimate of peak left ventricular systolic pressure could not be made from the echocardiogram. Eight of the 27 patients had a normal Ws/Ds ratio (0.55 or less), and their cardiac catheterization data revealed mild aortic stenosis not requiring operation. In contrast, clinical criteria based on the Natural History Study identified only three of the patients with mild aortic stenosis. Prospective studies are needed to confirm the usefulness of echocardiography in noninvasive evaluation of children with aortic valve stenosis.", "PMID": 453049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10354", "title": "Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in transposition of the great arteries: an angiographic study of 74 cases.", "content": "Recent advances in techniques of angiocardiography now allow highly accurate assessment of the anatomy of the left ventricle in patients with transposition of the great arteries. The cineangiograms of 225 children with transposition were reviewed using axial cineangiographic techniques and 33 percent were found to have significant left ventricular outflow tract obstruction with or without coexisting ventricular septal defects. The varieties of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and the associated ventricular septal defects found in this group of patients are described, illustrated and correlated. The advantages of axial angiocardiography in the diagnosis of transposition are pointed out, and the techniques used to produce the axial angiocardiograms are reviewed.", "contents": "Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in transposition of the great arteries: an angiographic study of 74 cases. Recent advances in techniques of angiocardiography now allow highly accurate assessment of the anatomy of the left ventricle in patients with transposition of the great arteries. The cineangiograms of 225 children with transposition were reviewed using axial cineangiographic techniques and 33 percent were found to have significant left ventricular outflow tract obstruction with or without coexisting ventricular septal defects. The varieties of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and the associated ventricular septal defects found in this group of patients are described, illustrated and correlated. The advantages of axial angiocardiography in the diagnosis of transposition are pointed out, and the techniques used to produce the axial angiocardiograms are reviewed.", "PMID": 453050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10355", "title": "Plasma levels of tocopherol in sickle cell anemia subjects.", "content": "Plasma tocopherol levels of less than 0.8 microgram/g lipid were considered indicative of a vitamin E-deficient status. Based on this criterion, 10 out of 13 sickle cell anemia patients who were not in crisis, were considered deficient in vitamin E as compared to none of 24 normal control subjects. Sickle cell anemia patients treated with 150 IU vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate) three times a day for 1 to 2 months had plasma tocopherol levels similar to control subjects. The possible role of vitamin E status on the manifestation of sickle cell anemia is discussed. The present study confirmed the vitamin E-deficient status of subjects with beta-thalassemia. Six of seven patients with beta-thalassemia had tocopherol levels of less than 0.8 mg/g lipid.", "contents": "Plasma levels of tocopherol in sickle cell anemia subjects. Plasma tocopherol levels of less than 0.8 microgram/g lipid were considered indicative of a vitamin E-deficient status. Based on this criterion, 10 out of 13 sickle cell anemia patients who were not in crisis, were considered deficient in vitamin E as compared to none of 24 normal control subjects. Sickle cell anemia patients treated with 150 IU vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate) three times a day for 1 to 2 months had plasma tocopherol levels similar to control subjects. The possible role of vitamin E status on the manifestation of sickle cell anemia is discussed. The present study confirmed the vitamin E-deficient status of subjects with beta-thalassemia. Six of seven patients with beta-thalassemia had tocopherol levels of less than 0.8 mg/g lipid.", "PMID": 453051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10356", "title": "Caloric requirements for weight gain in anorexia nervosa.", "content": "The caloric requirements for weight gain were studied in 29 patients during 35 days of treatment for anorexia nervosa. Associations between the caloric requirements for weight gain and the amount of body weight depletion at the beginning of treatment were analyzed. There was a positive correlation between the percentage standard weight on the 1st day of treatment and the excess calories required to gain a kilogram. This highly significant correlation was possibly due to differences in type to tissue formed and/or an increase in metabolic rate as part of an adaptive response, as the patient nears target weight.", "contents": "Caloric requirements for weight gain in anorexia nervosa. The caloric requirements for weight gain were studied in 29 patients during 35 days of treatment for anorexia nervosa. Associations between the caloric requirements for weight gain and the amount of body weight depletion at the beginning of treatment were analyzed. There was a positive correlation between the percentage standard weight on the 1st day of treatment and the excess calories required to gain a kilogram. This highly significant correlation was possibly due to differences in type to tissue formed and/or an increase in metabolic rate as part of an adaptive response, as the patient nears target weight.", "PMID": 453054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10357", "title": "Effects of exercise intensity on food consumption in the male rat.", "content": "The effects of two different levels of exercise of equal caloric cost on food consumption and body weight changes was investigated in 24 male rats (initial body weight = 378.3 g, SD = 22.3 g). Open circuit spirometry was used for the collection of respiratory gas exchange during running on the treadmill and these data were used to equate two intensities of exercise to the same caloric expenditure. Food consumption was measured 1 hr, and every 4 hr thereafter for 24 hr during 2 alternate weeks of exercise and rest. Results showed that high intensity exercise (16 m . min-1, 10% mill grade) resulted in depressed food consumption and depressed body weight gain than low intensity exercise (5 m . min-1, zero percentage mill grade) of equal caloric expenditure. Both exercise groups had depressed food consumption and rate of body weight change compared to nonexercise animals.", "contents": "Effects of exercise intensity on food consumption in the male rat. The effects of two different levels of exercise of equal caloric cost on food consumption and body weight changes was investigated in 24 male rats (initial body weight = 378.3 g, SD = 22.3 g). Open circuit spirometry was used for the collection of respiratory gas exchange during running on the treadmill and these data were used to equate two intensities of exercise to the same caloric expenditure. Food consumption was measured 1 hr, and every 4 hr thereafter for 24 hr during 2 alternate weeks of exercise and rest. Results showed that high intensity exercise (16 m . min-1, 10% mill grade) resulted in depressed food consumption and depressed body weight gain than low intensity exercise (5 m . min-1, zero percentage mill grade) of equal caloric expenditure. Both exercise groups had depressed food consumption and rate of body weight change compared to nonexercise animals.", "PMID": 453055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10358", "title": "An analysis of temporal patterns in urinary nitrogen excretion of young adults receiving constant diets at two nitrogen intakes for 8 to 11 weeks.", "content": "The temporal pattern of daily urinary nitrogen (UN) excretion was investigated in 21 young adult men and women who participated in two metabolic studies involving constant diets and lasting 8 to 11 weeks. For one group (16 subjects), nitrogen (N) intake was about 280 mg N/kg per day (mixed animal and plant protein sources) for 8 weeks; for the second group (five subjects), N intake was about 90 mg N/kg per day (egg protein) for 11 weeks. Two mathematical models were examined to determine how well they described the variations in UN. The first modeled only random variability while the second added a component of serial correlation (correlation between successive daily observations). After correcting the UN data for linear trend, to minimize effects of possible alterations in body composition, only two of the 21 subjects showed significant serial correlation of daily UN. Moreover, it is shown that any serial correlation undetectable in these data would not be of practical importance in estimating UN levels in short-term dietary experiments. It is concluded that the interpretation of metabolic N balance measurements involving constant N intakes over relatively short dietary periods in not complicated by cyclic, time-dependent variations in UN.", "contents": "An analysis of temporal patterns in urinary nitrogen excretion of young adults receiving constant diets at two nitrogen intakes for 8 to 11 weeks. The temporal pattern of daily urinary nitrogen (UN) excretion was investigated in 21 young adult men and women who participated in two metabolic studies involving constant diets and lasting 8 to 11 weeks. For one group (16 subjects), nitrogen (N) intake was about 280 mg N/kg per day (mixed animal and plant protein sources) for 8 weeks; for the second group (five subjects), N intake was about 90 mg N/kg per day (egg protein) for 11 weeks. Two mathematical models were examined to determine how well they described the variations in UN. The first modeled only random variability while the second added a component of serial correlation (correlation between successive daily observations). After correcting the UN data for linear trend, to minimize effects of possible alterations in body composition, only two of the 21 subjects showed significant serial correlation of daily UN. Moreover, it is shown that any serial correlation undetectable in these data would not be of practical importance in estimating UN levels in short-term dietary experiments. It is concluded that the interpretation of metabolic N balance measurements involving constant N intakes over relatively short dietary periods in not complicated by cyclic, time-dependent variations in UN.", "PMID": 453056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10359", "title": "Protein deficiency: its effects on body temperature in health and disease states.", "content": "Little is known about the effects of protein malnutrition on the ability to regulate body temperature during health and disease. To investigate this area, we placed young rabbits on a low-protein diet and recorded their body temperatures. There were no differences between the protein-deprived and control animals concerning their abilities to maintain constant body temperatures during exposure to low (5 C, 10 C) and thermoneutral ambient temperature (20 C). In a warm ambient temperature (30 C) the protein-deprived animals were actually better able to maintain a lower body temperature. Injections with heat killed bacteria led to little or no fever in the protein-deprived group. However, intravenous injections of endogenous pyrogen, a protein mediator of fever, resulted in fevers virtually identical to that attained in control animals. These data indicate that the attenuated febrile response to bacterial injection during protein deprivation may be due to a diminished production of endogenous pyrogen, and not to some alteration in the central nervous system sensitivity to pyrogens.", "contents": "Protein deficiency: its effects on body temperature in health and disease states. Little is known about the effects of protein malnutrition on the ability to regulate body temperature during health and disease. To investigate this area, we placed young rabbits on a low-protein diet and recorded their body temperatures. There were no differences between the protein-deprived and control animals concerning their abilities to maintain constant body temperatures during exposure to low (5 C, 10 C) and thermoneutral ambient temperature (20 C). In a warm ambient temperature (30 C) the protein-deprived animals were actually better able to maintain a lower body temperature. Injections with heat killed bacteria led to little or no fever in the protein-deprived group. However, intravenous injections of endogenous pyrogen, a protein mediator of fever, resulted in fevers virtually identical to that attained in control animals. These data indicate that the attenuated febrile response to bacterial injection during protein deprivation may be due to a diminished production of endogenous pyrogen, and not to some alteration in the central nervous system sensitivity to pyrogens.", "PMID": 453057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10360", "title": "Clinical signs of anemia in vitamin A-deficient rats.", "content": "Young rats weighing 150 g (initial weight) were fed diets sufficient or deficient in vitamin A. Postweaning rats were used in order to retard the rapid onset of vitamin A deficiency. The effects of the deficiency were studied with respect to impairment of hematopoietic function and anemia. Values for hemoglobin and hematocrit provided evidence of anemia before the signs of severe vitamin A deficiency became apparent. These included alopecia, ocular lesions, and low levels of retinol in plasma and liver. At the point where liver stores of vitamin A were virtually depleted, however, estimates for serum iron, hematocrit, and hemoglobin were elevated to control levels. The latter phenomenon appeared to result from hemoconcentration. These data suggest that anemia may be a component of vitamin A deficiency, but might be masked by the dehydration that accompanies severe depletion of vitamin A.", "contents": "Clinical signs of anemia in vitamin A-deficient rats. Young rats weighing 150 g (initial weight) were fed diets sufficient or deficient in vitamin A. Postweaning rats were used in order to retard the rapid onset of vitamin A deficiency. The effects of the deficiency were studied with respect to impairment of hematopoietic function and anemia. Values for hemoglobin and hematocrit provided evidence of anemia before the signs of severe vitamin A deficiency became apparent. These included alopecia, ocular lesions, and low levels of retinol in plasma and liver. At the point where liver stores of vitamin A were virtually depleted, however, estimates for serum iron, hematocrit, and hemoglobin were elevated to control levels. The latter phenomenon appeared to result from hemoconcentration. These data suggest that anemia may be a component of vitamin A deficiency, but might be masked by the dehydration that accompanies severe depletion of vitamin A.", "PMID": 453058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10361", "title": "An evaluation of strategies to control vitamin A deficiency in the Philippines.", "content": "Xerophthalmia has been found to be an important cause of blindness in the Philippines. An earlier study had investigated its prevalence and epidemiology on the island of Cebu. The research now presented consists of an evaluation of the relative effectiveness of three different intervention strategies to control vitamin A deficiency in Cebu. These interventions were 1) a public health and horticulture intervention, 2) the provision of 200,000 IU of vitamin A to children every 6 months (the \"capsule intervention\"), and 3) the fortification of monosodium glutamate with vitamin A. A total of 12 areas or barangays were included. Each intervention was monitored in four different barangays, two urban and two rural, for almost 2 years. Similar examinations were performed before and after the interventions. The monosodium glutamate fortification was the only intervention that resulted both in a significant reduction in clinical signs of xerophthalmia and in a significant rise in serum vitamin A levels. Fortification is now being planned in three Philippine provinces.", "contents": "An evaluation of strategies to control vitamin A deficiency in the Philippines. Xerophthalmia has been found to be an important cause of blindness in the Philippines. An earlier study had investigated its prevalence and epidemiology on the island of Cebu. The research now presented consists of an evaluation of the relative effectiveness of three different intervention strategies to control vitamin A deficiency in Cebu. These interventions were 1) a public health and horticulture intervention, 2) the provision of 200,000 IU of vitamin A to children every 6 months (the \"capsule intervention\"), and 3) the fortification of monosodium glutamate with vitamin A. A total of 12 areas or barangays were included. Each intervention was monitored in four different barangays, two urban and two rural, for almost 2 years. Similar examinations were performed before and after the interventions. The monosodium glutamate fortification was the only intervention that resulted both in a significant reduction in clinical signs of xerophthalmia and in a significant rise in serum vitamin A levels. Fortification is now being planned in three Philippine provinces.", "PMID": 453059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10362", "title": "Cord serum and placental tissue iron status in maternal hypoferremia.", "content": "Studies on 85 mothers with term infants and 32 mothers with preterm infants revealed that the cord serum and placental tissue iron levels were significantly reduced (P less than 0.001) in the mothers with hypoferremia (serum iron less than or equal to 50 microgram/100 ml). These levels were found to have linear correlations with the maternal serum iron levels, suggesting that the fetus and the placenta extracted iron in amounts proportional to the levels available in the mother. The high serum iron values in cord blood compared to the maternal blood even in the mothers with hypoferremia suggested that the process of active transfer of iron from mother to the fetus was maintained in maternal iron deficiency.", "contents": "Cord serum and placental tissue iron status in maternal hypoferremia. Studies on 85 mothers with term infants and 32 mothers with preterm infants revealed that the cord serum and placental tissue iron levels were significantly reduced (P less than 0.001) in the mothers with hypoferremia (serum iron less than or equal to 50 microgram/100 ml). These levels were found to have linear correlations with the maternal serum iron levels, suggesting that the fetus and the placenta extracted iron in amounts proportional to the levels available in the mother. The high serum iron values in cord blood compared to the maternal blood even in the mothers with hypoferremia suggested that the process of active transfer of iron from mother to the fetus was maintained in maternal iron deficiency.", "PMID": 453061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10363", "title": "Effect of high- and low-fiber diets on plasma lipids and insulin.", "content": "Seven healthy young adults were maintained for two separate 1-week periods on each of two very high-carbohydrate diets, one with low-fiber and one with high-fiber content. In both diets 15% of the calories were from protein, 15% from fat, and 70% were from carbohydrate. The low-fiber diet consisted of milk, glucose, and dextrins in liquid formula form, the high-fiber diet was composed of starchy foods. The crude fiber content of the high- and low-fiber diets was 18.0 and 1.0 g, respectively. The diets were isocaloric and the subjects maintained a stable weight. During the low-fiber diet the fasting triglycerides rose, reaching a peak 45% above base-line in 6 days. During the high-fiber diet the triglycerides fell to a level slightly below base-line. The cholesterol fell 16 and 23% below base-line on the low- and high-fiber diets. The glucose response to test meals representative of each diet was similar. The insulin response to a low-fiber meal was twice as great as that to a high-fiber meal containing an equivalent amount of carbohydrate. The results suggest that carbohydrate-induced hyperlipemia does not occur if the high carbohydrate diet is rich in dietary fiber, and furthermore that the insulin-stimulating potential of foods in a very high-carbohydrate diet is a critical determinant of the magnitude of carbohydrate-induced lipemia.", "contents": "Effect of high- and low-fiber diets on plasma lipids and insulin. Seven healthy young adults were maintained for two separate 1-week periods on each of two very high-carbohydrate diets, one with low-fiber and one with high-fiber content. In both diets 15% of the calories were from protein, 15% from fat, and 70% were from carbohydrate. The low-fiber diet consisted of milk, glucose, and dextrins in liquid formula form, the high-fiber diet was composed of starchy foods. The crude fiber content of the high- and low-fiber diets was 18.0 and 1.0 g, respectively. The diets were isocaloric and the subjects maintained a stable weight. During the low-fiber diet the fasting triglycerides rose, reaching a peak 45% above base-line in 6 days. During the high-fiber diet the triglycerides fell to a level slightly below base-line. The cholesterol fell 16 and 23% below base-line on the low- and high-fiber diets. The glucose response to test meals representative of each diet was similar. The insulin response to a low-fiber meal was twice as great as that to a high-fiber meal containing an equivalent amount of carbohydrate. The results suggest that carbohydrate-induced hyperlipemia does not occur if the high carbohydrate diet is rich in dietary fiber, and furthermore that the insulin-stimulating potential of foods in a very high-carbohydrate diet is a critical determinant of the magnitude of carbohydrate-induced lipemia.", "PMID": 453063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10364", "title": "Some aspects of bile acid and urobilinogen excretion and fecal elimination in men given a rural Guatemalan diet and egg formulas with and without added oat bran.", "content": "Six healthy men were fed a formula diet with and without oat bran and a natural food diet typical of rural Guatemala. No significant difference in dye transit time was found between diets but the Guatemalan diet significantly decreased dye retention time and increased stool frequency. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels showed no significant differences among dietary treatments. Excretion of fecal bile acids significantly increased on the Guatemalan and oat bran diets, but fecal bile acid concentration was significantly lower only on the Guatemalan diet. Urinary urobilinogen excretion and fecal urobilinogen concentration were significantly lower with the Guatemalan diet.", "contents": "Some aspects of bile acid and urobilinogen excretion and fecal elimination in men given a rural Guatemalan diet and egg formulas with and without added oat bran. Six healthy men were fed a formula diet with and without oat bran and a natural food diet typical of rural Guatemala. No significant difference in dye transit time was found between diets but the Guatemalan diet significantly decreased dye retention time and increased stool frequency. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels showed no significant differences among dietary treatments. Excretion of fecal bile acids significantly increased on the Guatemalan and oat bran diets, but fecal bile acid concentration was significantly lower only on the Guatemalan diet. Urinary urobilinogen excretion and fecal urobilinogen concentration were significantly lower with the Guatemalan diet.", "PMID": 453064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10365", "title": "Dietary zinc intake of low-income pregnant women of Mexican descent.", "content": "Zinc intakes of low-income pregnant women of Mexican descent were estimated by the use of 24-hr dietary recalls. Recalls were obtained during the first two trimesters for 344 women and again during the third trimester of pregnancy for 279 of the same women. The daily mean zinc intake was calculated as 9.4 +/- 3.8 mg during the first two trimesters and as 10.0 +/- 4.3 mg during the third trimester. For about 85% of the women, the reported intakes were below two-thirds of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for zinc. In a subsample of the women, no significant correlation was shown between low dietary zinc intakes and low serum zinc levels during either early or late pregnancy. Zinc and protein intakes were highly correlated in both early and late pregnancy (r = 0.83 and 0.89, respectively). Diets that provided 90 to 100 g of protein (about 125% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance) provided a mean of 13.6 g of zinc (67% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance).", "contents": "Dietary zinc intake of low-income pregnant women of Mexican descent. Zinc intakes of low-income pregnant women of Mexican descent were estimated by the use of 24-hr dietary recalls. Recalls were obtained during the first two trimesters for 344 women and again during the third trimester of pregnancy for 279 of the same women. The daily mean zinc intake was calculated as 9.4 +/- 3.8 mg during the first two trimesters and as 10.0 +/- 4.3 mg during the third trimester. For about 85% of the women, the reported intakes were below two-thirds of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for zinc. In a subsample of the women, no significant correlation was shown between low dietary zinc intakes and low serum zinc levels during either early or late pregnancy. Zinc and protein intakes were highly correlated in both early and late pregnancy (r = 0.83 and 0.89, respectively). Diets that provided 90 to 100 g of protein (about 125% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance) provided a mean of 13.6 g of zinc (67% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance).", "PMID": 453065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10366", "title": "A dietary survey to determine the relationship between diet and cholelithiasis.", "content": "A dietary survey was conducted to compare the dietary intakes of people with and without cholelithiasis (gallstones). A 48-hr recall method was used to collect dietary data from 91 cholelithiasis subjects (15 males and 76 females) and 86 control subjects (13 males and 73 females). Although the female cholelithiasis subjects were more overweight than the control subjects, they consumed less energy per day. It was observed that the female cholelithiasis group consumed less protein, fat, carbohydrate, and crude fiber than the female control group. Nutrient intakes per 1000 cal were similar for the female cholelithiasis and control groups. The total weekly intake of crude fiber and the intake of crude fiber specifically from bread and bakery products was significantly less for the female cholelithiasis group than for the female control group. This may indicate that it is a component of whole wheat flour that is low in the diet of subjects with gallstones. The results of this study suggest a possible relationship between cholelithiasis and a low intake of energy, protein, fat or crude fiber, but more than one of these nutrients could be involved. It is evident that further work is needed to study the relationship between diet and gallstone formation.", "contents": "A dietary survey to determine the relationship between diet and cholelithiasis. A dietary survey was conducted to compare the dietary intakes of people with and without cholelithiasis (gallstones). A 48-hr recall method was used to collect dietary data from 91 cholelithiasis subjects (15 males and 76 females) and 86 control subjects (13 males and 73 females). Although the female cholelithiasis subjects were more overweight than the control subjects, they consumed less energy per day. It was observed that the female cholelithiasis group consumed less protein, fat, carbohydrate, and crude fiber than the female control group. Nutrient intakes per 1000 cal were similar for the female cholelithiasis and control groups. The total weekly intake of crude fiber and the intake of crude fiber specifically from bread and bakery products was significantly less for the female cholelithiasis group than for the female control group. This may indicate that it is a component of whole wheat flour that is low in the diet of subjects with gallstones. The results of this study suggest a possible relationship between cholelithiasis and a low intake of energy, protein, fat or crude fiber, but more than one of these nutrients could be involved. It is evident that further work is needed to study the relationship between diet and gallstone formation.", "PMID": 453066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10367", "title": "A comparison of triceps skinfold values as measured by the plastic McGaw caliper and the Lange caliper.", "content": "The plastic McGaw caliper and the Lange caliper were used to measure the triceps skinfold thickness of both arms of 91 volunteer subjects and of the left arms of 14 obese patients. McGaw caliper values were highly correlated with the Lange caliper values (r = 0.97) but were significantly lower than the Lange caliper values (P less than 0.01). Triceps skinfolds could not be measured by the McGaw caliper on 11 very obese patients, all of whom had Lange triceps skinfold thicknesses greater than 45 mm.", "contents": "A comparison of triceps skinfold values as measured by the plastic McGaw caliper and the Lange caliper. The plastic McGaw caliper and the Lange caliper were used to measure the triceps skinfold thickness of both arms of 91 volunteer subjects and of the left arms of 14 obese patients. McGaw caliper values were highly correlated with the Lange caliper values (r = 0.97) but were significantly lower than the Lange caliper values (P less than 0.01). Triceps skinfolds could not be measured by the McGaw caliper on 11 very obese patients, all of whom had Lange triceps skinfold thicknesses greater than 45 mm.", "PMID": 453067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10368", "title": "Relationship between the nutritional efficacy of a rice and bean diet and energy intake in preschool children.", "content": "Nitrogen balance and urea excretion were measured in a group of 4- to 6-year-old children receiving a rice and bean diet providing 1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day and three levels of calories. With diets providing 2300 and 3000 kcal/day, nitrogen retention was 41.16 +/- 29.04 and 53.30 +/- 18.46 mg/kg of body weight per day, respectively. With 1400 kcal/day, diet nitrogen retention decreased to 25.38 +/- 13.88 mg/kg body weight and urea nitrogen excretion increased. The importance of adequate caloric intake for optimum utilization of dietary protein from a rice and bean diet for growing children is demonstrated.", "contents": "Relationship between the nutritional efficacy of a rice and bean diet and energy intake in preschool children. Nitrogen balance and urea excretion were measured in a group of 4- to 6-year-old children receiving a rice and bean diet providing 1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day and three levels of calories. With diets providing 2300 and 3000 kcal/day, nitrogen retention was 41.16 +/- 29.04 and 53.30 +/- 18.46 mg/kg of body weight per day, respectively. With 1400 kcal/day, diet nitrogen retention decreased to 25.38 +/- 13.88 mg/kg body weight and urea nitrogen excretion increased. The importance of adequate caloric intake for optimum utilization of dietary protein from a rice and bean diet for growing children is demonstrated.", "PMID": 453068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10369", "title": "Ascariasis and malnutrition. A study in urban Ethiopian children.", "content": "Treatment of 13 urban Ethiopian children with mild ascariasis did not produce any evidence of improved intestinal morphology and absorption or nutritional status. Ascariasis treatment had no impact on anthropometric measures in an additional study group of 84 children. A review of the literature reveals that the nutritional consequences of ascariasis are uncertain.", "contents": "Ascariasis and malnutrition. A study in urban Ethiopian children. Treatment of 13 urban Ethiopian children with mild ascariasis did not produce any evidence of improved intestinal morphology and absorption or nutritional status. Ascariasis treatment had no impact on anthropometric measures in an additional study group of 84 children. A review of the literature reveals that the nutritional consequences of ascariasis are uncertain.", "PMID": 453069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10370", "title": "S\u00e9zary syndrome. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in the neoplastic cells.", "content": "Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase has been known to be of diagnostic value in hairy cell leukemia. However, occasionally neoplastic cells of other varieties of lymphoproliferative disorders may contain tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. The authors have studied four patients with S\u00e9zary syndrome who had typical cutaneous lesions with extensive lymphoid infiltrates and circulating atypical E-rosetting lymphoid cells. The abnormal S\u00e9zary cells accounted for 23-69% of the peripheral mononuclear cells and often showed convoluted or folded nuclei. These cells in all four patients were strongly positive for acid phosphatase resistant to tartaric acid inhibition. Enzymatic cytochemical studies for acid phosphatase with and without tartrate may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas from variants of chronic dermatitis.", "contents": "S\u00e9zary syndrome. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in the neoplastic cells. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase has been known to be of diagnostic value in hairy cell leukemia. However, occasionally neoplastic cells of other varieties of lymphoproliferative disorders may contain tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. The authors have studied four patients with S\u00e9zary syndrome who had typical cutaneous lesions with extensive lymphoid infiltrates and circulating atypical E-rosetting lymphoid cells. The abnormal S\u00e9zary cells accounted for 23-69% of the peripheral mononuclear cells and often showed convoluted or folded nuclei. These cells in all four patients were strongly positive for acid phosphatase resistant to tartaric acid inhibition. Enzymatic cytochemical studies for acid phosphatase with and without tartrate may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas from variants of chronic dermatitis.", "PMID": 453071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10371", "title": "Quantitation of hemoglobin A2. An interlaboratory study.", "content": "In the 1976 hemoglobinopathy proficiency testing survey of the Center for Disease Control (CDC), whole-blood samples from hematologically normal adults and from individuals heterozygous for beta-thalassemia were shipped to survey participants. The object of this survey was to determine the state of the art for technics used to quantitate hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) and to test the ability of laboratories to differentiate between blood samples having normal Hb A2 levels and those having elevated levels (i.e., those from individuals with beta-thalassemia trait). The results of Hb A2 quantitation obtained from 183 volunteer participant laboratories were compared with those obtained from 24 reference laboratories. Individual values varied greatly among laboratories and among methods for both normal and elevated Hb A2 samples. The results returned by many laboratories were not within 2 SD of the reference laboratory mean and also were not sufficiently accurate to differentiate between the normal blood samples and those with beta-thalassemia trait. The results suggest that methods for quantitating Hb A2 need to be standardized and a suitable method for determining laboratory performance found.", "contents": "Quantitation of hemoglobin A2. An interlaboratory study. In the 1976 hemoglobinopathy proficiency testing survey of the Center for Disease Control (CDC), whole-blood samples from hematologically normal adults and from individuals heterozygous for beta-thalassemia were shipped to survey participants. The object of this survey was to determine the state of the art for technics used to quantitate hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) and to test the ability of laboratories to differentiate between blood samples having normal Hb A2 levels and those having elevated levels (i.e., those from individuals with beta-thalassemia trait). The results of Hb A2 quantitation obtained from 183 volunteer participant laboratories were compared with those obtained from 24 reference laboratories. Individual values varied greatly among laboratories and among methods for both normal and elevated Hb A2 samples. The results returned by many laboratories were not within 2 SD of the reference laboratory mean and also were not sufficiently accurate to differentiate between the normal blood samples and those with beta-thalassemia trait. The results suggest that methods for quantitating Hb A2 need to be standardized and a suitable method for determining laboratory performance found.", "PMID": 453072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10372", "title": "Laboratory suggestions: Improving the sensitivity of the Fletcher factor assay.", "content": "The prolonged activated partial thromboplastin times observed with Fletcher factor (prekallikrein)-deficient plasmas become nearly normal after the plasma is incubated with contact surfaces or with an activator. Those shorter times may lead to relatively flat reference curves for Fletcher factor assays under certain conditions. The authors examine in detail the effect of incubation time upon the sensitivity of Fletcher factor assays. Four different surface activators were used in the tests to determine the optimal activation for each type. An incubation time of 1 min produced maximal sensitivity with each surface activator tested. All reagents remained stable for at least an hour at 37.5 C.", "contents": "Laboratory suggestions: Improving the sensitivity of the Fletcher factor assay. The prolonged activated partial thromboplastin times observed with Fletcher factor (prekallikrein)-deficient plasmas become nearly normal after the plasma is incubated with contact surfaces or with an activator. Those shorter times may lead to relatively flat reference curves for Fletcher factor assays under certain conditions. The authors examine in detail the effect of incubation time upon the sensitivity of Fletcher factor assays. Four different surface activators were used in the tests to determine the optimal activation for each type. An incubation time of 1 min produced maximal sensitivity with each surface activator tested. All reagents remained stable for at least an hour at 37.5 C.", "PMID": 453074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10373", "title": "Cytochemical identification of tetrahydrofolate in human leukocytes.", "content": "Utilizing the ability of molybdenum dioxide dichloride to form a black insoluble precipitate with tetrahydrofolate, a cytochemical test for rapid detection of tetrahydrofolate in human leukocytes was developed. The test may be useful in distinguishing deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate or both from other disorders of erythropoiesis characterized by megaloblastic erythropoiesis.", "contents": "Cytochemical identification of tetrahydrofolate in human leukocytes. Utilizing the ability of molybdenum dioxide dichloride to form a black insoluble precipitate with tetrahydrofolate, a cytochemical test for rapid detection of tetrahydrofolate in human leukocytes was developed. The test may be useful in distinguishing deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate or both from other disorders of erythropoiesis characterized by megaloblastic erythropoiesis.", "PMID": 453075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10374", "title": "An improved nitroblue tetrazolium test using phorbol myristate acetate-coated coverslips.", "content": "The endotoxin--nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) slide test was modified by precoating coverslips with phorbol myristate acetate instead of endotoxin. The percentage of control polymorphonuclear leukocytes reducing NBT was significantly (P less than .05) greater on phorbol myristate acetate-coated coverslips (99 +/- 0.21%) than on endotoxin-coated coverslips (96+/- 1.8%). Polymorphonuclear leukocytes from patients with chronic granulomatous disease did not reduce NBT on phorbol myristate acetate- or endotoxin-treated coverslips. NBT reduction by polymorphonuclear leukocytes from proven heterozygotic carriers of sex-linked chronic granulomatous disease was intermediate between NBT reductions by those from controls and patients. A statistically significant abnormality of NBT reduction was found in polymorphonuclear leukocytes from one carrier of chronic granulomatous disease with phorbol myristate acetate-treated, but not endotoxin-treated coverslips. The phorbol myristate acetate-NBT coverslip technic is a rapid, simple, reliable way to detect deficiencies in polymorphonuclear leukocytes from patients and carriers of chronic granulomatous disease.", "contents": "An improved nitroblue tetrazolium test using phorbol myristate acetate-coated coverslips. The endotoxin--nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) slide test was modified by precoating coverslips with phorbol myristate acetate instead of endotoxin. The percentage of control polymorphonuclear leukocytes reducing NBT was significantly (P less than .05) greater on phorbol myristate acetate-coated coverslips (99 +/- 0.21%) than on endotoxin-coated coverslips (96+/- 1.8%). Polymorphonuclear leukocytes from patients with chronic granulomatous disease did not reduce NBT on phorbol myristate acetate- or endotoxin-treated coverslips. NBT reduction by polymorphonuclear leukocytes from proven heterozygotic carriers of sex-linked chronic granulomatous disease was intermediate between NBT reductions by those from controls and patients. A statistically significant abnormality of NBT reduction was found in polymorphonuclear leukocytes from one carrier of chronic granulomatous disease with phorbol myristate acetate-treated, but not endotoxin-treated coverslips. The phorbol myristate acetate-NBT coverslip technic is a rapid, simple, reliable way to detect deficiencies in polymorphonuclear leukocytes from patients and carriers of chronic granulomatous disease.", "PMID": 453076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10375", "title": "Peliosis of the spleen.", "content": "Peliosis of the spleen is a rare condition that accompanies peliosis hepatis. Two cases are presented, and a detailed morphologic description is given. The lesions are confined to the red pulp and appear to arise by progressive distention of splenic sinuses, with eventual thrombosis and organization. Peliotic involvement of the spleen is probably more common than realized and can have serious clinical implications.", "contents": "Peliosis of the spleen. Peliosis of the spleen is a rare condition that accompanies peliosis hepatis. Two cases are presented, and a detailed morphologic description is given. The lesions are confined to the red pulp and appear to arise by progressive distention of splenic sinuses, with eventual thrombosis and organization. Peliotic involvement of the spleen is probably more common than realized and can have serious clinical implications.", "PMID": 453077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10376", "title": "A case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis in Zaria, Nigeria.", "content": "A case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis due to Naegleria fowleri in a Nigerian child is described. This is probably the first authentic case from West Africa. The clinical manifestations, isolation of the ameba from the cerebrospinal fluid and nasal passages, poor response to amphotericin B, and ultimate fatal outcome all are consistent with the diagnosis of primary amebic meningoencephalitis. Subsequent identification based on morphologic features, flagellation, animal pathogenicity, and nuclear division proved conclusively that the ameba was Naegleria fowleri. The route of entry of the ameba proved to be nasal. In the absence of the history of swimming and in view of the dusty harmattan period during which the child was admitted, a possibility of infection by inhalation of dust harboring amebic cysts is suggested.", "contents": "A case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis in Zaria, Nigeria. A case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis due to Naegleria fowleri in a Nigerian child is described. This is probably the first authentic case from West Africa. The clinical manifestations, isolation of the ameba from the cerebrospinal fluid and nasal passages, poor response to amphotericin B, and ultimate fatal outcome all are consistent with the diagnosis of primary amebic meningoencephalitis. Subsequent identification based on morphologic features, flagellation, animal pathogenicity, and nuclear division proved conclusively that the ameba was Naegleria fowleri. The route of entry of the ameba proved to be nasal. In the absence of the history of swimming and in view of the dusty harmattan period during which the child was admitted, a possibility of infection by inhalation of dust harboring amebic cysts is suggested.", "PMID": 453078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10377", "title": "Abnormalities of bone marrow simulating histiocytic medullary reticulosis in a patient with gastric carcinoma.", "content": "In the proper clinical setting, phagocytosis by bone marrow histiocytes of erythrocytes, granulocytes, and platelets (panphagocytosis) is generally accepted as the morphologic hallmark of histiocytic medullary reticulosis. A patient with clinical manifestations that suggested histiocytic medullary reticulosis was found also to have histiocytic panphagocytosis in the bone marrow. Biopsy of the liver, however, revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma. In addition, postmortem examination demonstrated a gastric adenocarcinoma with massive hepatic involvement and absence of lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, or evidence of generalized histiocytic proliferation. Therefore, histiocytic panphagocytosis is probably not specific for histiocytic medullary reticulosis, and may be a nonspecific feature of a variety of diseases.", "contents": "Abnormalities of bone marrow simulating histiocytic medullary reticulosis in a patient with gastric carcinoma. In the proper clinical setting, phagocytosis by bone marrow histiocytes of erythrocytes, granulocytes, and platelets (panphagocytosis) is generally accepted as the morphologic hallmark of histiocytic medullary reticulosis. A patient with clinical manifestations that suggested histiocytic medullary reticulosis was found also to have histiocytic panphagocytosis in the bone marrow. Biopsy of the liver, however, revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma. In addition, postmortem examination demonstrated a gastric adenocarcinoma with massive hepatic involvement and absence of lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, or evidence of generalized histiocytic proliferation. Therefore, histiocytic panphagocytosis is probably not specific for histiocytic medullary reticulosis, and may be a nonspecific feature of a variety of diseases.", "PMID": 453079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10378", "title": "Aspergillus mural endocarditis.", "content": "Infectious mural endocarditis is uncommon and not well documented. The clinical setting and pathologic features of five patients with Aspergillus mural endocarditis are described. Leukemia, carcinoma, renal transplantation, and hepatic failure were the primary diseases. Associated conditions include high-dose corticosteroids, cytotoxic therapy, renal failure, gram-negative sepsis, and endotracheal intubation. All patients received prolonged antibiotic therapy or treatment with three or more antibiotics. All had clinically undetected aspergillosis and severe fungal pneumonia. Fungal myocardial abscesses were present in each patient. Aspergillus mural endocarditis developed in more than 40% of patients with cardiac aspergillosis. Endocardial vegetations were contiguous with underlying myocardial infection; yet they may develop initially as a subendocardial focus rather than from a myocardial abscess. Aspergillus mural endocarditis progressed to destroy the mitral valve ring and served as a source of mycotic embolization to vital organs.", "contents": "Aspergillus mural endocarditis. Infectious mural endocarditis is uncommon and not well documented. The clinical setting and pathologic features of five patients with Aspergillus mural endocarditis are described. Leukemia, carcinoma, renal transplantation, and hepatic failure were the primary diseases. Associated conditions include high-dose corticosteroids, cytotoxic therapy, renal failure, gram-negative sepsis, and endotracheal intubation. All patients received prolonged antibiotic therapy or treatment with three or more antibiotics. All had clinically undetected aspergillosis and severe fungal pneumonia. Fungal myocardial abscesses were present in each patient. Aspergillus mural endocarditis developed in more than 40% of patients with cardiac aspergillosis. Endocardial vegetations were contiguous with underlying myocardial infection; yet they may develop initially as a subendocardial focus rather than from a myocardial abscess. Aspergillus mural endocarditis progressed to destroy the mitral valve ring and served as a source of mycotic embolization to vital organs.", "PMID": 453081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10379", "title": "Prothrombin time after heparin removal. Application to monitoring simultaneous anticoagulation with heparin and coumarins.", "content": "Coumarin-anticoagulated plasmas from 31 subjects comprising two study groups were passed through epichlorohydrin triethanolamine cellulose (ECTEOLA) chromatography columns. Group I plasmas, which were run with nothing added, had mean prothrombin times of 21.6 +/- 5.4 sec prior to and 22.4 +/- 5.6 sec following exposure to these columns (r = 0.9449; t = 1.8307, P less than 0.100). The mean prothrombin time for Group II, 18.2 +/- 4.9 sec, lengthened with 5 u/ml heparin to 35.5 +/- 16.2 sec, and returned to 19.2 +/- 5.0 (r = 0.9763) after chromatography. Therefore, it appears that coumarin anticoagulation had no significant influence upon the capacity of ECTEOLA effectively to remove heparin in therapeutic doses. This means that virtually all prothrombin time reagent systems can be employed to monitor concurrent heparin and coumarin anticoagulation. In addition, quality control of the combined technic is simpler, and the technic more sensitive to low levels of fibrinogen and factor V.", "contents": "Prothrombin time after heparin removal. Application to monitoring simultaneous anticoagulation with heparin and coumarins. Coumarin-anticoagulated plasmas from 31 subjects comprising two study groups were passed through epichlorohydrin triethanolamine cellulose (ECTEOLA) chromatography columns. Group I plasmas, which were run with nothing added, had mean prothrombin times of 21.6 +/- 5.4 sec prior to and 22.4 +/- 5.6 sec following exposure to these columns (r = 0.9449; t = 1.8307, P less than 0.100). The mean prothrombin time for Group II, 18.2 +/- 4.9 sec, lengthened with 5 u/ml heparin to 35.5 +/- 16.2 sec, and returned to 19.2 +/- 5.0 (r = 0.9763) after chromatography. Therefore, it appears that coumarin anticoagulation had no significant influence upon the capacity of ECTEOLA effectively to remove heparin in therapeutic doses. This means that virtually all prothrombin time reagent systems can be employed to monitor concurrent heparin and coumarin anticoagulation. In addition, quality control of the combined technic is simpler, and the technic more sensitive to low levels of fibrinogen and factor V.", "PMID": 453082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10380", "title": "Phenotyping of eight erythrocytic enzymes in one acrylamide gel.", "content": "A procedure has been developed to phenotype eight erythrocytic enzymes, phosphoglucomutase (PGM1), adenylate kinase (AK), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), adenosine deaminase (ADA), glyoxalase (GLO), esterase-D (EsD), acid phosphatase (AcP), and glutamic pyruvate transaminase (GPT) in one acrylamide gel and also to detect the presence of common abnormal hemoglobins. The agar overlay technic has been eliminated. This simplified procedure renders the phenotyping of erythrocytic enzymes practical in paternity testing.", "contents": "Phenotyping of eight erythrocytic enzymes in one acrylamide gel. A procedure has been developed to phenotype eight erythrocytic enzymes, phosphoglucomutase (PGM1), adenylate kinase (AK), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), adenosine deaminase (ADA), glyoxalase (GLO), esterase-D (EsD), acid phosphatase (AcP), and glutamic pyruvate transaminase (GPT) in one acrylamide gel and also to detect the presence of common abnormal hemoglobins. The agar overlay technic has been eliminated. This simplified procedure renders the phenotyping of erythrocytic enzymes practical in paternity testing.", "PMID": 453083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10381", "title": "ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn.", "content": "The charts of newborn infants with positive direct Coombs' test were studied. Only cases in which the mother's blood was group O and the infant's group A or group B were studied. There was no difference between group A and group B infants in the frequency and severity of the hemolytic process caused by maternal antibodies. In group B infants, monospecific antibodies (anti-B) were associated with more severe hemolytic process than cross-reacting antibodies (anti-A,B). In group A infants there was no difference in the severity of the disease between monospecific antibodies (anti-A) and cross reacting antibodies (anti-A,B). Even though there was no significant difference in the sex distribution of affected infants, there was a higher number of boys in the more severely affected group.", "contents": "ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn. The charts of newborn infants with positive direct Coombs' test were studied. Only cases in which the mother's blood was group O and the infant's group A or group B were studied. There was no difference between group A and group B infants in the frequency and severity of the hemolytic process caused by maternal antibodies. In group B infants, monospecific antibodies (anti-B) were associated with more severe hemolytic process than cross-reacting antibodies (anti-A,B). In group A infants there was no difference in the severity of the disease between monospecific antibodies (anti-A) and cross reacting antibodies (anti-A,B). Even though there was no significant difference in the sex distribution of affected infants, there was a higher number of boys in the more severely affected group.", "PMID": 453084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10382", "title": "Evaluation of an automated blood smear analyzer.", "content": "The performance of a diff3 System prototype instrument that does automated leukocyte differential counts, erythrocytic morphology determinations, and leukocyte count and platelet count estimates, was compared with performance by laboratory personnel for a five-week period in an active general hospital. Using experienced supervisors as the referee method, this instrument performed as well as the routine laboratory staff in all aspects of leukocyte differential counting. With respect to erythrocytic morphology, estimates of hypochromia were inferior to those of the routine laboratory staff; comparisons of estimates of macrocytosis and polychromasia were not significantly different. Leukocyte and platelet numerical estimate performance by the diff3 System was not as good as that of automated cell-counting instruments, but categorization of platelet concentration as normal or abnormal did compare favorably with estimation by laboratory personnel. The flagging of abnormal slides by the instrument was comparable in sensitivity to that by the routine laboratory staff; however, specificity was less, with a significantly greater number of false positives obtained by use of the instrument.", "contents": "Evaluation of an automated blood smear analyzer. The performance of a diff3 System prototype instrument that does automated leukocyte differential counts, erythrocytic morphology determinations, and leukocyte count and platelet count estimates, was compared with performance by laboratory personnel for a five-week period in an active general hospital. Using experienced supervisors as the referee method, this instrument performed as well as the routine laboratory staff in all aspects of leukocyte differential counting. With respect to erythrocytic morphology, estimates of hypochromia were inferior to those of the routine laboratory staff; comparisons of estimates of macrocytosis and polychromasia were not significantly different. Leukocyte and platelet numerical estimate performance by the diff3 System was not as good as that of automated cell-counting instruments, but categorization of platelet concentration as normal or abnormal did compare favorably with estimation by laboratory personnel. The flagging of abnormal slides by the instrument was comparable in sensitivity to that by the routine laboratory staff; however, specificity was less, with a significantly greater number of false positives obtained by use of the instrument.", "PMID": 453085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10383", "title": "Visual and automated differential leukocyte counts. A comparison study of three instruments.", "content": "The authors compared referee (senior author) microscopic counts, microscopic counts by several technologists, and counts obtained with two pattern-recognition leukocyte classifiers, (1) Larc and (2) Hematrak, and a cytochemical automated method for leukocyte counting, (3) Hermalog D, using samples from (1) a random patient population, (2) a selected abnormal patient population, and (3) healthy individuals. All instruments showed good accuracy and flagged abnormal results for review. Variability in pattern-recognition counts was found to be due mainly to the distribution of the cells on prepared blood smears. The Larc classifier was found to be very sensitive to minor alterations in the cytoplasm or nucleus, and rejected a number of slides. The Hemalog D showed the greatest precision. The method of preparation of slides would be a major decision factor in selecting one pattern-recognition instrument over another.", "contents": "Visual and automated differential leukocyte counts. A comparison study of three instruments. The authors compared referee (senior author) microscopic counts, microscopic counts by several technologists, and counts obtained with two pattern-recognition leukocyte classifiers, (1) Larc and (2) Hematrak, and a cytochemical automated method for leukocyte counting, (3) Hermalog D, using samples from (1) a random patient population, (2) a selected abnormal patient population, and (3) healthy individuals. All instruments showed good accuracy and flagged abnormal results for review. Variability in pattern-recognition counts was found to be due mainly to the distribution of the cells on prepared blood smears. The Larc classifier was found to be very sensitive to minor alterations in the cytoplasm or nucleus, and rejected a number of slides. The Hemalog D showed the greatest precision. The method of preparation of slides would be a major decision factor in selecting one pattern-recognition instrument over another.", "PMID": 453086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10384", "title": "The reliability and rapidity of the coagglutination technic and its comparison with precipitin technic in the grouping of streptococci.", "content": "Three methods of the grouping of 170 strains of beta-hemolytic streptococci belonging to Groups A, B, C, F, and G by capillary and agar-gel precipitation using Lancefield extract and by coagglutination of antibody-coated protein A-containing staphylococci were compared. Capillary and agar-gel precipitin technics correctly grouped all 170 strains, with no cross-reaction. One hundred sixty-nine out of the 170 strains were also correctly grouped by the coagglutination technic, and the one strain with a cross-reaction was correctly grouped after blood--agar subculture. Although 20 of the 170 strains showed minor cross-reactions by the coagglutination technic, the specific groups were easily and unquestionably detected, and the minor cross-reactions were easily overcome. A rapid method of grouping by coagglutination technic using 4--6-hour broth culture, done on 75 strains, showed that 73 strains could be correctly grouped by the rapid method and two after overnight incubation. Thus, the coagglutination technic of grouping was found to be easy, reliable, and economical, and could be adopted in any routine diagnostic laboratory as a rapid grouping procedure.", "contents": "The reliability and rapidity of the coagglutination technic and its comparison with precipitin technic in the grouping of streptococci. Three methods of the grouping of 170 strains of beta-hemolytic streptococci belonging to Groups A, B, C, F, and G by capillary and agar-gel precipitation using Lancefield extract and by coagglutination of antibody-coated protein A-containing staphylococci were compared. Capillary and agar-gel precipitin technics correctly grouped all 170 strains, with no cross-reaction. One hundred sixty-nine out of the 170 strains were also correctly grouped by the coagglutination technic, and the one strain with a cross-reaction was correctly grouped after blood--agar subculture. Although 20 of the 170 strains showed minor cross-reactions by the coagglutination technic, the specific groups were easily and unquestionably detected, and the minor cross-reactions were easily overcome. A rapid method of grouping by coagglutination technic using 4--6-hour broth culture, done on 75 strains, showed that 73 strains could be correctly grouped by the rapid method and two after overnight incubation. Thus, the coagglutination technic of grouping was found to be easy, reliable, and economical, and could be adopted in any routine diagnostic laboratory as a rapid grouping procedure.", "PMID": 453087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10385", "title": "Hemolytic disease of the newborn due to anti-Dib.", "content": "A case of moderately severe erythroblastosis fetalis due to anti-Dib is reported. The mother was a Mexican-Indian woman who had received three units of blood following the delivery of a normal infant three years previously. The affected infant required phototherapy and two exchange transfusions. Although the units were incompatible, the infant tolerated the procedures well and appeared normal when last seen at the age of 2 1/2 months. This case brings to 11 the total number of instances of anti-Dib reported.", "contents": "Hemolytic disease of the newborn due to anti-Dib. A case of moderately severe erythroblastosis fetalis due to anti-Dib is reported. The mother was a Mexican-Indian woman who had received three units of blood following the delivery of a normal infant three years previously. The affected infant required phototherapy and two exchange transfusions. Although the units were incompatible, the infant tolerated the procedures well and appeared normal when last seen at the age of 2 1/2 months. This case brings to 11 the total number of instances of anti-Dib reported.", "PMID": 453088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10386", "title": "Glandular dysplasia in diethylstilbestrol-associated vaginal adenosis. A case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A case of diethylstilbestrol-associated vaginal adenosis in which dysplastic glands were identified and examined by light and electron microscopy is reported. Transitions between normal and dysplastic glands were documented in subserial sections. These alterations may characterize an intermediate phase in the development of clear-cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina.", "contents": "Glandular dysplasia in diethylstilbestrol-associated vaginal adenosis. A case report and review of the literature. A case of diethylstilbestrol-associated vaginal adenosis in which dysplastic glands were identified and examined by light and electron microscopy is reported. Transitions between normal and dysplastic glands were documented in subserial sections. These alterations may characterize an intermediate phase in the development of clear-cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina.", "PMID": 453089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10387", "title": "Phagocytic myeloma cells.", "content": "A case of a patient with otherwise typical multiple myeloma whose myeloma cells were phagocytic is described. Phagocytosis of erythrocytes, erythrocytic precursors, lymphocytes, and platelets was found. Ingestion of latex particles by myeloma cells was demonstrated in vitro.", "contents": "Phagocytic myeloma cells. A case of a patient with otherwise typical multiple myeloma whose myeloma cells were phagocytic is described. Phagocytosis of erythrocytes, erythrocytic precursors, lymphocytes, and platelets was found. Ingestion of latex particles by myeloma cells was demonstrated in vitro.", "PMID": 453090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10388", "title": "Crescentic glomerulonephritis and renal failure associated with malignant lymphoma.", "content": "Two cases of crescentic glomerulonephritis and renal failure associated with malignant lymphoma are reported. The relationship of the lymphoma to the immune-complex glomerulonephritis is discussed.", "contents": "Crescentic glomerulonephritis and renal failure associated with malignant lymphoma. Two cases of crescentic glomerulonephritis and renal failure associated with malignant lymphoma are reported. The relationship of the lymphoma to the immune-complex glomerulonephritis is discussed.", "PMID": 453091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10389", "title": "Cell-mediated cytotoxicity to cardiac cells of lymphocytes from patients with primary myocardial disease.", "content": "The etiology of primary myocardial disease is unknown. With the advent of immunologic technics, an immune process related to primary myocardial disease has been sought, but none has been elucidated as diagnostic or causative. The authors attempted to study the possibility of a cell-mediated component in the etiology of primary myocardial disease. Cell-mediated immunologic injury of cultured, human myocardial cells was studied in cells from patients with primary myocardial disease and controls by means of a 51chromium-release method. Significant lymphocytic cytotoxicity against myocardial cells was detected in cells from 23 (30%) of 73 patients with primary myocardial disease, compared with two (4%) of 49 normal, healthy control subjects. Significant cytotoxicity was also observed in cells from 36 (24%) of 148 patients who had other cardiac diseases, mainly rheumatic and atherosclerotic diseases. No group showed cytotoxicity against a long-term culture of Chang hepatic cells. No clinical correlation between the severity of the disease and increased cytotoxicity could be found. It is concluded that lymphocytic reactivity against myocardial cells probably results from myocardial damage due to a variety of causes, and that it is not specific for primary myocardial disease.", "contents": "Cell-mediated cytotoxicity to cardiac cells of lymphocytes from patients with primary myocardial disease. The etiology of primary myocardial disease is unknown. With the advent of immunologic technics, an immune process related to primary myocardial disease has been sought, but none has been elucidated as diagnostic or causative. The authors attempted to study the possibility of a cell-mediated component in the etiology of primary myocardial disease. Cell-mediated immunologic injury of cultured, human myocardial cells was studied in cells from patients with primary myocardial disease and controls by means of a 51chromium-release method. Significant lymphocytic cytotoxicity against myocardial cells was detected in cells from 23 (30%) of 73 patients with primary myocardial disease, compared with two (4%) of 49 normal, healthy control subjects. Significant cytotoxicity was also observed in cells from 36 (24%) of 148 patients who had other cardiac diseases, mainly rheumatic and atherosclerotic diseases. No group showed cytotoxicity against a long-term culture of Chang hepatic cells. No clinical correlation between the severity of the disease and increased cytotoxicity could be found. It is concluded that lymphocytic reactivity against myocardial cells probably results from myocardial damage due to a variety of causes, and that it is not specific for primary myocardial disease.", "PMID": 453094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10390", "title": "You can draw blood from the \"IV arm\" below the intravenous needle if you put a tourniquet in between.", "content": "The authors performed a comparative study of the values of 18 serum constituents of blood specimens taken simultaneously from the arm into which an intravenous solution was flowing, using a site distal to the intravenous needle, and from the other arm. Subjects of the study were 15 patients at the Norwalk Hospital. Statistical analysis showed no clinically significant difference between the levels in the two arms except for elevation of glucose in the \"iv arm\" when the intravenous solution contained glucose.", "contents": "You can draw blood from the \"IV arm\" below the intravenous needle if you put a tourniquet in between. The authors performed a comparative study of the values of 18 serum constituents of blood specimens taken simultaneously from the arm into which an intravenous solution was flowing, using a site distal to the intravenous needle, and from the other arm. Subjects of the study were 15 patients at the Norwalk Hospital. Statistical analysis showed no clinically significant difference between the levels in the two arms except for elevation of glucose in the \"iv arm\" when the intravenous solution contained glucose.", "PMID": 453095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10391", "title": "Chronic pericarditis due to a streptomyces species.", "content": "Streptomyces species include a group of aerobic actinomycetes that are generally considered to be saprophytes. Effusoconstrictive pericarditis of mixed etiology developed in a previously healthy patient. The cause of the chronic pericarditis was a Streptomyces species.", "contents": "Chronic pericarditis due to a streptomyces species. Streptomyces species include a group of aerobic actinomycetes that are generally considered to be saprophytes. Effusoconstrictive pericarditis of mixed etiology developed in a previously healthy patient. The cause of the chronic pericarditis was a Streptomyces species.", "PMID": 453096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10392", "title": "Alport's syndrome associated with macrothrombopathic thrombocytopenia.", "content": "The combined occurrence of hereditary nephritis with nerve deafness (Alport's syndrome) and macrothrombocytopathic thrombocytopenia is very rare. The authors have had the opportunity to study such a case in a 20-year-old man who had been followed since birth. The clinical history, renal biopsy, platelet studies, and autopsy findings are presented. The renal pathologic findings are well defined; however, the hemostatic abnormalities and the hearing loss are not well characterized. In this paper, an attept is made to clarify the diverse platelet functional and morphologic abnormalties.", "contents": "Alport's syndrome associated with macrothrombopathic thrombocytopenia. The combined occurrence of hereditary nephritis with nerve deafness (Alport's syndrome) and macrothrombocytopathic thrombocytopenia is very rare. The authors have had the opportunity to study such a case in a 20-year-old man who had been followed since birth. The clinical history, renal biopsy, platelet studies, and autopsy findings are presented. The renal pathologic findings are well defined; however, the hemostatic abnormalities and the hearing loss are not well characterized. In this paper, an attept is made to clarify the diverse platelet functional and morphologic abnormalties.", "PMID": 453097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10393", "title": "Serologic studies of Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus morbillorum by crossed immunoelectrophoresis.", "content": "A reference antigen-antibody system for Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus morbillorum was established with crossed immunoelectrophoresis. A comparison of S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum with crossed immunoelectrophoresis and crossed immunoelectrophoresis with intermediate gel indicated that S. intermedius and S. constellatus are closely related antigenically with as many as six common cytoplasmic antigens. S. morbillorum was antigenically more distinct; antiserum of one strain of S. morbillorum was monospecific, indicating that specific serogroups of S. morbillorum exist. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis and tandem crossed immunoelectrophoresis revealed that S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum also share some common antigens with Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mitis, but S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum are antigenically distinct from Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus bovis.", "contents": "Serologic studies of Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus morbillorum by crossed immunoelectrophoresis. A reference antigen-antibody system for Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus morbillorum was established with crossed immunoelectrophoresis. A comparison of S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum with crossed immunoelectrophoresis and crossed immunoelectrophoresis with intermediate gel indicated that S. intermedius and S. constellatus are closely related antigenically with as many as six common cytoplasmic antigens. S. morbillorum was antigenically more distinct; antiserum of one strain of S. morbillorum was monospecific, indicating that specific serogroups of S. morbillorum exist. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis and tandem crossed immunoelectrophoresis revealed that S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum also share some common antigens with Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mitis, but S. intermedius, S. constellatus, and S. morbillorum are antigenically distinct from Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus bovis.", "PMID": 453098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10394", "title": "Nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver in a case of myelofibrosis with extramedullary hematopoiesis and secondary portal venous hypertension.", "content": "Nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver was identified at autopsy in a patient with myelofibrosis with extramedulary hematopoiesis, an association not previously reported. Portal venous hypertension, documented during the patient's terminal hospitalization, was ascribed, in part, to a high rate of blood flow through the enlarged spleen. Possible mechanisms accounting for the development of nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver, and evidence provided by this case pertinent to these mechanisms, are discussed.", "contents": "Nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver in a case of myelofibrosis with extramedullary hematopoiesis and secondary portal venous hypertension. Nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver was identified at autopsy in a patient with myelofibrosis with extramedulary hematopoiesis, an association not previously reported. Portal venous hypertension, documented during the patient's terminal hospitalization, was ascribed, in part, to a high rate of blood flow through the enlarged spleen. Possible mechanisms accounting for the development of nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver, and evidence provided by this case pertinent to these mechanisms, are discussed.", "PMID": 453099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10395", "title": "Statistical analysis of method comparison data. Testing normality.", "content": "A Lilliefors test of normality has been applied to data from precision and accuracy studies. Most data sets tested as non-normal. Simulation studies showed that the test is extremely sensitive to the rounded, narrowly distributed data that are typical of method performance studies in clinical chemistry. The Lilliefors test can be modified to be applicable to rounded data so that it gives fewer indications of non-normality. The authors conclude that the selection of a test of normality requires careful study of the properties of the test. Otherwise, the subsequent choice between parametric and nonparametric statistics may not be meaningful.", "contents": "Statistical analysis of method comparison data. Testing normality. A Lilliefors test of normality has been applied to data from precision and accuracy studies. Most data sets tested as non-normal. Simulation studies showed that the test is extremely sensitive to the rounded, narrowly distributed data that are typical of method performance studies in clinical chemistry. The Lilliefors test can be modified to be applicable to rounded data so that it gives fewer indications of non-normality. The authors conclude that the selection of a test of normality requires careful study of the properties of the test. Otherwise, the subsequent choice between parametric and nonparametric statistics may not be meaningful.", "PMID": 453107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10396", "title": "Clinical estimation of creatinine clearance.", "content": "One hundred fifty-four 24-hour urine collections from 16 patients with stable renal function from whom careful urine collections were made were used to compare the \"error\" in determining renal function (creatinine clearance) when it is estimated using measured 24-hour creatinine excretion versus when creatinine excretion is predicted from serum creatinine, sex, age, and weight, using a simple estimation scheme. These \"errors\" were comparable (the coefficients of variation were 10% and 13%, respectively). Thus, the prediction scheme is as acceptable as direct measurement of creatinine excretion for purposes of estimating creatinine clearance in stable patients, and is simpler to perform. Two hundred twenty-two 24-hour urine collections from 86 patients having urine collections performed in a routine fashion were also analyzed in this manner. The routinely assessed patients demonstrated markedly greater intraindividual variability (coefficient of variation, 27%) in measured creatinine excretion than did the carefully studied patients (10%). The authors suspect that the excess variability was due to inaccurate urine collection. If so, the prediction scheme may also be acceptable in the routine clinical setting.", "contents": "Clinical estimation of creatinine clearance. One hundred fifty-four 24-hour urine collections from 16 patients with stable renal function from whom careful urine collections were made were used to compare the \"error\" in determining renal function (creatinine clearance) when it is estimated using measured 24-hour creatinine excretion versus when creatinine excretion is predicted from serum creatinine, sex, age, and weight, using a simple estimation scheme. These \"errors\" were comparable (the coefficients of variation were 10% and 13%, respectively). Thus, the prediction scheme is as acceptable as direct measurement of creatinine excretion for purposes of estimating creatinine clearance in stable patients, and is simpler to perform. Two hundred twenty-two 24-hour urine collections from 86 patients having urine collections performed in a routine fashion were also analyzed in this manner. The routinely assessed patients demonstrated markedly greater intraindividual variability (coefficient of variation, 27%) in measured creatinine excretion than did the carefully studied patients (10%). The authors suspect that the excess variability was due to inaccurate urine collection. If so, the prediction scheme may also be acceptable in the routine clinical setting.", "PMID": 453108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10397", "title": "Nephrotic syndrome with mesangial-cell proliferation in children--a distinct entity?", "content": "Various morphologic patterns have been identified in renal biopsies of children with the idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Children with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis have clinicopathologic features sufficiently distinct to warrant a separate subclassification. \"Immunoglobulin M (IgM) nephropathy\" and other morphologic patterns are less well defined. The clinicopathologic characteristics of eight patients with the nephrotic syndrome, increased mesangial cellularity on renal biopsy, and hematuria (mesangioproliferative nephropathy) were evaluated. Response to standardized prednisone therapy was poor. Of the seven children followed for 7-29 months, only two were in remission at the time of writing, and each of these had had one prior relapse. The eighth patient was lost to follow-up after one month. Although the number of patients studied was small, there was a strong correlation between degree of mesangial-cell proliferation and failure of primary treatment. As concepts of the pathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children continue to evolve, the mesangioproliferative lesion should be recognized and marked for further study.", "contents": "Nephrotic syndrome with mesangial-cell proliferation in children--a distinct entity? Various morphologic patterns have been identified in renal biopsies of children with the idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Children with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis have clinicopathologic features sufficiently distinct to warrant a separate subclassification. \"Immunoglobulin M (IgM) nephropathy\" and other morphologic patterns are less well defined. The clinicopathologic characteristics of eight patients with the nephrotic syndrome, increased mesangial cellularity on renal biopsy, and hematuria (mesangioproliferative nephropathy) were evaluated. Response to standardized prednisone therapy was poor. Of the seven children followed for 7-29 months, only two were in remission at the time of writing, and each of these had had one prior relapse. The eighth patient was lost to follow-up after one month. Although the number of patients studied was small, there was a strong correlation between degree of mesangial-cell proliferation and failure of primary treatment. As concepts of the pathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children continue to evolve, the mesangioproliferative lesion should be recognized and marked for further study.", "PMID": 453109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10398", "title": "Comparison of the diagnostic values of biopsies of the pleura and cytologic evaluation of pleural fluids.", "content": "Results of a comparison of the diagnostic efficacy of percutaneous needle biopsy of the parietal pleura with that of cytologic examination of pleural fluid sediment obtained concurrently from 166 patients with benign or cancerous pleural disorders are reported. Of 44 patients with confirmatory evidence of cancer involving the pleural surfaces, 43 had positive cytologic findings, whereas pleural biopsies were diagnostic in only 16 cases. Of a total of 122 patients with benign pleural diseases, cytology provided the diagnosis in two cases of eosinophilic pleurisy, and pleural biopsy contributed the diagnosis in four of ten cases of tuberculosis. The data indicate that percutaneous needle biopsy of the parietal pleura is less efficacious in the diagnosis of malignant pleural disease than is cytologic evaluation of the fluid sediment, whereas in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy, pleural biopsy proved superior.", "contents": "Comparison of the diagnostic values of biopsies of the pleura and cytologic evaluation of pleural fluids. Results of a comparison of the diagnostic efficacy of percutaneous needle biopsy of the parietal pleura with that of cytologic examination of pleural fluid sediment obtained concurrently from 166 patients with benign or cancerous pleural disorders are reported. Of 44 patients with confirmatory evidence of cancer involving the pleural surfaces, 43 had positive cytologic findings, whereas pleural biopsies were diagnostic in only 16 cases. Of a total of 122 patients with benign pleural diseases, cytology provided the diagnosis in two cases of eosinophilic pleurisy, and pleural biopsy contributed the diagnosis in four of ten cases of tuberculosis. The data indicate that percutaneous needle biopsy of the parietal pleura is less efficacious in the diagnosis of malignant pleural disease than is cytologic evaluation of the fluid sediment, whereas in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy, pleural biopsy proved superior.", "PMID": 453110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10399", "title": "Differentiation by TICAS analysis of cell populations of tracheal aspirates from hamsters with squamous-cell carcinoma.", "content": "Individual cells from the tracheal aspirates of hamsters exposed to benzo-a-pyrene were scanned at .5 mum in three colors. Features relating to size, shape, and color were extracted and calculated by computer. The single cells were then classified by these features into separate populations with varying degrees of atypia, extending up to frank cancer cells. A high degree of accuracy was attained in classification by these methods.", "contents": "Differentiation by TICAS analysis of cell populations of tracheal aspirates from hamsters with squamous-cell carcinoma. Individual cells from the tracheal aspirates of hamsters exposed to benzo-a-pyrene were scanned at .5 mum in three colors. Features relating to size, shape, and color were extracted and calculated by computer. The single cells were then classified by these features into separate populations with varying degrees of atypia, extending up to frank cancer cells. A high degree of accuracy was attained in classification by these methods.", "PMID": 453111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10400", "title": "Microcytosis associated with sickle cell anemia.", "content": "Sickle cell (Hb SS) anemia is considered a normochromic-normocytic hemolytic disorder. In 53 patients with Hb SS (mean reticulocyte values 16.8%), the authors observed that mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) was 29.8 +/- 2.4 mu microgram and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCV) was 88.1 +/- 6.8 cu micrometers. In contrast, patients in a comparable hemolytic-disease group unrelated to hemoglobinopathies (mean reticulocyte count = 15.7%) had a higher MCH (33.0 +/- 1.8 mu microgram) and larger MCV (97 +/- 5.3 cu micrometers). These data indicate that Hb SS disease is associated with \"relative microcytosis,\" presumably a consequence of reduced hemoglobin production.", "contents": "Microcytosis associated with sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell (Hb SS) anemia is considered a normochromic-normocytic hemolytic disorder. In 53 patients with Hb SS (mean reticulocyte values 16.8%), the authors observed that mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) was 29.8 +/- 2.4 mu microgram and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCV) was 88.1 +/- 6.8 cu micrometers. In contrast, patients in a comparable hemolytic-disease group unrelated to hemoglobinopathies (mean reticulocyte count = 15.7%) had a higher MCH (33.0 +/- 1.8 mu microgram) and larger MCV (97 +/- 5.3 cu micrometers). These data indicate that Hb SS disease is associated with \"relative microcytosis,\" presumably a consequence of reduced hemoglobin production.", "PMID": 453112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10401", "title": "The zeta sedimentation ration (ZSR) as the routine monitor of disease activity in a general hospital.", "content": "Nine hundred eighty-one requests for sedimentation rates in a clinical laboratory were received and the zeta sedimentation ratio (ZSR) test was performed. The results were correlated with the patients' diagnoses and disease activity. This test was found to be a useful monitor of disease activity in a clinical setting. Substitution of the ZSR for the standard erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR) appears to be acceptable. The test is simple, rapidly performed, and reproducible.", "contents": "The zeta sedimentation ration (ZSR) as the routine monitor of disease activity in a general hospital. Nine hundred eighty-one requests for sedimentation rates in a clinical laboratory were received and the zeta sedimentation ratio (ZSR) test was performed. The results were correlated with the patients' diagnoses and disease activity. This test was found to be a useful monitor of disease activity in a clinical setting. Substitution of the ZSR for the standard erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR) appears to be acceptable. The test is simple, rapidly performed, and reproducible.", "PMID": 453113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10402", "title": "Comparison of hematocrit determinations by microhematocrit and electronic particle counter.", "content": "Hematocrit determinations by microhematocrit and electronic particle counter technics were obtained using newborn and adult blood samples. Coulter Model S hematocrit values greater than .47 were found to be significantly lower than those obtained by using the microhematocrit technic. These differences assume clinical importance when considering partial plasma exchange transfusion for the treatment of polycythemia and associated hyperviscosity.", "contents": "Comparison of hematocrit determinations by microhematocrit and electronic particle counter. Hematocrit determinations by microhematocrit and electronic particle counter technics were obtained using newborn and adult blood samples. Coulter Model S hematocrit values greater than .47 were found to be significantly lower than those obtained by using the microhematocrit technic. These differences assume clinical importance when considering partial plasma exchange transfusion for the treatment of polycythemia and associated hyperviscosity.", "PMID": 453114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10403", "title": "Computer-assisted heparin monitoring.", "content": "Heparin monitoring during procedures involving cardiopulmonary bypass using the Bull protocol has been programmed using a microcomputer. The program displays the in-vivo heparin tolerance curve and the patient's effective plasma heparin level along this curve. It calculates the incremental dose of heparin necessary to achieve effective anticoagulation throughout the procedure. At the conclusion of the procedure, the dose of protamine needed to neutralize the \"on-board\" heparin is calculated and displayed. The program also flags unusual in-vivo heparin response curves and suggests to the operator possible explanations for these unusual responses. Training time to use the equipment and program is approximately 5 min.", "contents": "Computer-assisted heparin monitoring. Heparin monitoring during procedures involving cardiopulmonary bypass using the Bull protocol has been programmed using a microcomputer. The program displays the in-vivo heparin tolerance curve and the patient's effective plasma heparin level along this curve. It calculates the incremental dose of heparin necessary to achieve effective anticoagulation throughout the procedure. At the conclusion of the procedure, the dose of protamine needed to neutralize the \"on-board\" heparin is calculated and displayed. The program also flags unusual in-vivo heparin response curves and suggests to the operator possible explanations for these unusual responses. Training time to use the equipment and program is approximately 5 min.", "PMID": 453115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10404", "title": "Percentiles as reference values for laboratory data.", "content": "It has been suggested that laboratory results be reported, not only in conventional units, but also in terms of equivalent percentiles from a reference population. This would afford the clinician an easily interpretable measure of how unusual such a result would be in the reference population. This paper describes a modified method for estimation of reference percentiles. This method does not require any assumption about the distribution of the reference population, but it has a smaller variability than that from earlier methods based on interpolation. This method is now being used to furnish percentile values for spirometric data in the authors' laboratory.", "contents": "Percentiles as reference values for laboratory data. It has been suggested that laboratory results be reported, not only in conventional units, but also in terms of equivalent percentiles from a reference population. This would afford the clinician an easily interpretable measure of how unusual such a result would be in the reference population. This paper describes a modified method for estimation of reference percentiles. This method does not require any assumption about the distribution of the reference population, but it has a smaller variability than that from earlier methods based on interpolation. This method is now being used to furnish percentile values for spirometric data in the authors' laboratory.", "PMID": 453116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10405", "title": "Lymphatic invasion in pigmented nevi.", "content": "All 124 pigmented nevi registered at the Canadian Tumour Reference Centre between July 1958 and May 1969 were reviewed. Nevus cells invading endothelial lined spaces were observed in serial sections from five cases. The significance of this finding is discussed in relation to published reports of the presence of nevus cells in lymph nodes.", "contents": "Lymphatic invasion in pigmented nevi. All 124 pigmented nevi registered at the Canadian Tumour Reference Centre between July 1958 and May 1969 were reviewed. Nevus cells invading endothelial lined spaces were observed in serial sections from five cases. The significance of this finding is discussed in relation to published reports of the presence of nevus cells in lymph nodes.", "PMID": 453117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10406", "title": "Identity degradation and mental disorder: an empirical assessment of the Conduct Impairment Scale.", "content": "Proponents of the medical models have held that mental disorder is best measured in terms of some inventory of symptoms indicative of an underlying disease. Alternatively, critics have argued that mental disorder is the result of a degraded ascribed role, a discrepancy between the person and his environment, or the degradation of identity. The issue goes beyond academic debate, with important implications for case-finding and program development in community mental health. Theodore Sarbin has developed a 58-item \"Conduct Impairment Scale\" to operationalize the concept of \"Identity Degradation\" and proposed it as a substitute for the medical model. Three dimensions are posited: status, value, and involvement. An appropriate level of reliability and clustering of scale items are reported by Sarbin. In order to subject the scale to a more rigorous test, it was administered to a random sample of 208 respondents in four neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as part of a larger epidemiological study. In an effort to assess the validity of the scale, factor analytic methods were employed. A principal components model with varimax rotation was performed. It was found that items purporting to tap the three theoretical dimensions explicated by Sarbin did not load in the expected pattern. Additionally, the first three extracted factors accounted for only a small proportion of the total variance. Efforts to assess the reliability of the scale were more fruitful. A corrected split-half of .82 and coefficient alpha of .86 were obtained. It was concluded that the validity of the scale was not adequately demonstrated, and its use as an alternative to the medical model open to serious reservation.", "contents": "Identity degradation and mental disorder: an empirical assessment of the Conduct Impairment Scale. Proponents of the medical models have held that mental disorder is best measured in terms of some inventory of symptoms indicative of an underlying disease. Alternatively, critics have argued that mental disorder is the result of a degraded ascribed role, a discrepancy between the person and his environment, or the degradation of identity. The issue goes beyond academic debate, with important implications for case-finding and program development in community mental health. Theodore Sarbin has developed a 58-item \"Conduct Impairment Scale\" to operationalize the concept of \"Identity Degradation\" and proposed it as a substitute for the medical model. Three dimensions are posited: status, value, and involvement. An appropriate level of reliability and clustering of scale items are reported by Sarbin. In order to subject the scale to a more rigorous test, it was administered to a random sample of 208 respondents in four neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as part of a larger epidemiological study. In an effort to assess the validity of the scale, factor analytic methods were employed. A principal components model with varimax rotation was performed. It was found that items purporting to tap the three theoretical dimensions explicated by Sarbin did not load in the expected pattern. Additionally, the first three extracted factors accounted for only a small proportion of the total variance. Efforts to assess the reliability of the scale were more fruitful. A corrected split-half of .82 and coefficient alpha of .86 were obtained. It was concluded that the validity of the scale was not adequately demonstrated, and its use as an alternative to the medical model open to serious reservation.", "PMID": 453121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10407", "title": "Student physical symptoms and the social climate of college living groups.", "content": "Student physical symptoms were related to the social climates of university living groups. A Physical Symptom Risk Scale, a new subscale of the University Residence Environment Scale, which relates consistently to physical symptom complaints for male, female, and coed living groups, was developed. Living groups characterized by high student physical symptoms were perceived by students as low in involvement and support, high in competition, and low in student influence. The results indicate that certain types of social environments may be \"high risk\" settings in that they support and possibly facilitate complaints of physical symptoms. These settings may be amenable to early \"environmental diagnosis,\" preventive counseling, and change-oriented social systems intervention.", "contents": "Student physical symptoms and the social climate of college living groups. Student physical symptoms were related to the social climates of university living groups. A Physical Symptom Risk Scale, a new subscale of the University Residence Environment Scale, which relates consistently to physical symptom complaints for male, female, and coed living groups, was developed. Living groups characterized by high student physical symptoms were perceived by students as low in involvement and support, high in competition, and low in student influence. The results indicate that certain types of social environments may be \"high risk\" settings in that they support and possibly facilitate complaints of physical symptoms. These settings may be amenable to early \"environmental diagnosis,\" preventive counseling, and change-oriented social systems intervention.", "PMID": 453122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10408", "title": "Responsive parenting: an approach to training parents of problem children.", "content": "Two behavior modification groups for parents of problem children between the ages of two and ten were conducted along the lines of the Responsive Teaching Model. The two groups met for 10 and 8 weeks, respectively, with six families represented in each group. In Responsive Parenting (RP), parents are taught to observe and measure their children's problematic behavior. Subsequently, each parent develops a home project designed to modify this behavior; 11 of the 12 parents developed a successful home project. In addition, the attendance was approximately 90% and the completion of weekly assignments was close to 100%. Paper-and-pencil measures revealed that the parents were very satisfied with the parent-training group and rated their children as improved on a bipolar adjective checklist. These results are discussed with regard to implications for the delivery of mental health services for children. Future research directions are delineated.", "contents": "Responsive parenting: an approach to training parents of problem children. Two behavior modification groups for parents of problem children between the ages of two and ten were conducted along the lines of the Responsive Teaching Model. The two groups met for 10 and 8 weeks, respectively, with six families represented in each group. In Responsive Parenting (RP), parents are taught to observe and measure their children's problematic behavior. Subsequently, each parent develops a home project designed to modify this behavior; 11 of the 12 parents developed a successful home project. In addition, the attendance was approximately 90% and the completion of weekly assignments was close to 100%. Paper-and-pencil measures revealed that the parents were very satisfied with the parent-training group and rated their children as improved on a bipolar adjective checklist. These results are discussed with regard to implications for the delivery of mental health services for children. Future research directions are delineated.", "PMID": 453123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10409", "title": "Effects of midterm integration on state and trait anxiety in black and white elementary school children.", "content": "This study investigated the effects of stress associated with school integration on state and trait anxiety for 637 Black and White fourth- fifth- and sixth-grade children. A court-ordered integration plan resulted in the transfer of children from all-White and all-Black schools into integrated schools 2 months before the end of the school year. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC) was administered 1 week prior to the transfer and 6 weeks following transfer. Females who were transferred had higher state anxiety scores than nontransferred females, but there were no differences for males. Transferred Black and White children did not differ in state anxiety, but transferred Blacks were higher in trait anxiety than transferred Whites.", "contents": "Effects of midterm integration on state and trait anxiety in black and white elementary school children. This study investigated the effects of stress associated with school integration on state and trait anxiety for 637 Black and White fourth- fifth- and sixth-grade children. A court-ordered integration plan resulted in the transfer of children from all-White and all-Black schools into integrated schools 2 months before the end of the school year. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC) was administered 1 week prior to the transfer and 6 weeks following transfer. Females who were transferred had higher state anxiety scores than nontransferred females, but there were no differences for males. Transferred Black and White children did not differ in state anxiety, but transferred Blacks were higher in trait anxiety than transferred Whites.", "PMID": 453124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10410", "title": "An evaluation of a community outreach program.", "content": "A contact and counseling service for youth was examined with regard to the awareness of the program and its nature, the utilization of it, and the evaluation of it by the population of youth at risk. The program was evaluated both by a novel, unobtrusive approach to data-collection for use in a milieu where conventional methods were inoperable, and by an analysis of records from the agency. In addiction, process and activity observations of staff and clients were found to be useful for the evaluation of the agency's activities. The results indicated high levels of consumer awareness, mixed levels of utilization, positive evaluation, and an appropriate perception of goals and activities by the potential and actual users.", "contents": "An evaluation of a community outreach program. A contact and counseling service for youth was examined with regard to the awareness of the program and its nature, the utilization of it, and the evaluation of it by the population of youth at risk. The program was evaluated both by a novel, unobtrusive approach to data-collection for use in a milieu where conventional methods were inoperable, and by an analysis of records from the agency. In addiction, process and activity observations of staff and clients were found to be useful for the evaluation of the agency's activities. The results indicated high levels of consumer awareness, mixed levels of utilization, positive evaluation, and an appropriate perception of goals and activities by the potential and actual users.", "PMID": 453125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10411", "title": "Systems issues in psychiatric treatment of adolescents in their community.", "content": "The psychiatric treatment of adolescents is analyzed as having, on the one hand, staff and client subsystems interacting continuously and, on the other hand, cross-boundary transactions between the treatment program and two other systems, the neighborhood and the community mental health system of which the program is a part. Through the use of the concepts of boundaries and mirroring, it is possible to explain more clearly how certain dramatic events relate to adolescent psychology and to the treatment tasks.", "contents": "Systems issues in psychiatric treatment of adolescents in their community. The psychiatric treatment of adolescents is analyzed as having, on the one hand, staff and client subsystems interacting continuously and, on the other hand, cross-boundary transactions between the treatment program and two other systems, the neighborhood and the community mental health system of which the program is a part. Through the use of the concepts of boundaries and mirroring, it is possible to explain more clearly how certain dramatic events relate to adolescent psychology and to the treatment tasks.", "PMID": 453126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10412", "title": "Significance of endoscopically visible blood vessels as an index of atrophic gastritis.", "content": "The endoscopic criteria for atrophic gastritis are. 1. pale mucosa; 2. shiny surface and 3. prominent submucosal vessels. To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of circumscribed atrophic gastritis based on these findings, we studied 184 consecutive upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. The endoscopic diagnosis of atrophic gastritis was made only if two endoscopists both agreed on the findings and interpretation. The location of the atrophic pattern and whether it was circumscribed or diffuse were recorded. Two biopsy specimens were than obtained. Histologic material was interpreted by a pathologist who had no prior knowledge of the endoscopic findings. Twenty-five patients (13%) had atrophic gastritis endoscopically; in four it was diffuse and in 21 it was circumscribed. Utilizing the criteria of Whitehead, et al, atrophic gastritis was diagnosed histologically in three of four patients with diffuse gastritis but in one of those considered to have circumscribed atrophic gastritis. It is concluded from these preliminary data that a circumscribed atrophic mucosal pattern is a frequent endoscopic finding that does not necessarily represent atrophic gastritis histologically.", "contents": "Significance of endoscopically visible blood vessels as an index of atrophic gastritis. The endoscopic criteria for atrophic gastritis are. 1. pale mucosa; 2. shiny surface and 3. prominent submucosal vessels. To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of circumscribed atrophic gastritis based on these findings, we studied 184 consecutive upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. The endoscopic diagnosis of atrophic gastritis was made only if two endoscopists both agreed on the findings and interpretation. The location of the atrophic pattern and whether it was circumscribed or diffuse were recorded. Two biopsy specimens were than obtained. Histologic material was interpreted by a pathologist who had no prior knowledge of the endoscopic findings. Twenty-five patients (13%) had atrophic gastritis endoscopically; in four it was diffuse and in 21 it was circumscribed. Utilizing the criteria of Whitehead, et al, atrophic gastritis was diagnosed histologically in three of four patients with diffuse gastritis but in one of those considered to have circumscribed atrophic gastritis. It is concluded from these preliminary data that a circumscribed atrophic mucosal pattern is a frequent endoscopic finding that does not necessarily represent atrophic gastritis histologically.", "PMID": 453128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10413", "title": "Dye clearance studies in Rotor's syndrome.", "content": "Plasma clearances of sulfobromophthalein sodium (BSP), indocyanine green (ICG) and unconjugated bilirubin were studied in six patients with Rotor's syndrome. A marked retention of these three substances in the plasma was observed. At 60 minutes after injection, serum BSP consisted almost entirely of the unconjugated form. In three patients, BSP Tm and BSP S were significantly reduced. Clearance of unconjugated bilirubin was markedly impaired. This, together with the conjugated hyperbilirubinemia may be interpreted to reflect reduced storage. These results indicate that Rotor's syndrome is marked by reduced hepatic storage capacity and excretory function of BSP, ICG and bilirubin.", "contents": "Dye clearance studies in Rotor's syndrome. Plasma clearances of sulfobromophthalein sodium (BSP), indocyanine green (ICG) and unconjugated bilirubin were studied in six patients with Rotor's syndrome. A marked retention of these three substances in the plasma was observed. At 60 minutes after injection, serum BSP consisted almost entirely of the unconjugated form. In three patients, BSP Tm and BSP S were significantly reduced. Clearance of unconjugated bilirubin was markedly impaired. This, together with the conjugated hyperbilirubinemia may be interpreted to reflect reduced storage. These results indicate that Rotor's syndrome is marked by reduced hepatic storage capacity and excretory function of BSP, ICG and bilirubin.", "PMID": 453129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10414", "title": "Effect of phenoxybenzamine (POB) on portal venous pressure in patients with portal hypertension.", "content": "In order to assess an effect of phenoxybenzamine (POB) on portal circulation, POB (0.5-1.0 mg./kg.) was administered intravenously to six patients with portal hypertension and two patients without portal hypertension. In patients with portal hypertension, POB reduced portal venous pressure (PVP) from 362.5 +/- 53.8 mm. H2O to 282.5 +/- 50.4 mm. H2O (P less than 0.001) where central venous pressure (CVP) was maintained constant. In patients without portal hypertension, change in PVP was in parallel with that in CVP where the decrease in PVP was regarded as not specific. This preferential reduction of PVP in portal hypertension seemed to implicate functional vasoconstriction of the portal venous system. In the treatment of bleeding esophageal varices, use of POB with blood transfusion after decompression of the Sengstaken-Blakemore tube should be beneficial because of its prolonged effect of lowering PVP and preventing ischemic liver damage.", "contents": "Effect of phenoxybenzamine (POB) on portal venous pressure in patients with portal hypertension. In order to assess an effect of phenoxybenzamine (POB) on portal circulation, POB (0.5-1.0 mg./kg.) was administered intravenously to six patients with portal hypertension and two patients without portal hypertension. In patients with portal hypertension, POB reduced portal venous pressure (PVP) from 362.5 +/- 53.8 mm. H2O to 282.5 +/- 50.4 mm. H2O (P less than 0.001) where central venous pressure (CVP) was maintained constant. In patients without portal hypertension, change in PVP was in parallel with that in CVP where the decrease in PVP was regarded as not specific. This preferential reduction of PVP in portal hypertension seemed to implicate functional vasoconstriction of the portal venous system. In the treatment of bleeding esophageal varices, use of POB with blood transfusion after decompression of the Sengstaken-Blakemore tube should be beneficial because of its prolonged effect of lowering PVP and preventing ischemic liver damage.", "PMID": 453130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10415", "title": "Endoscopic resection of squamous papilloma of the esophagus.", "content": "Squamous papilloma is a rare, benign esophageal tumor which may be confused with verrucous carcinoma of the esophagus. The case of a 45-year old male who was found to have an esophageal squamous papilloma is presented. This case serves to demonstrate the important role of fiberoptic endoscopy for the transendoscopic resection of this tumor.", "contents": "Endoscopic resection of squamous papilloma of the esophagus. Squamous papilloma is a rare, benign esophageal tumor which may be confused with verrucous carcinoma of the esophagus. The case of a 45-year old male who was found to have an esophageal squamous papilloma is presented. This case serves to demonstrate the important role of fiberoptic endoscopy for the transendoscopic resection of this tumor.", "PMID": 453131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10416", "title": "Choledochal cyst presenting as pancreatitis.", "content": "A patient with choledochal cyst presenting with recurrent pancreatitis is described. The cyst was suspected on endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP), then was diagnosed by intravenous cholangiography and abdominal angiography. It was confirmed at surgery. The clinical, radiological and surgical features of this disorder are described and the importance of this entity as a possible correctable cause of pancreatitis is stressed.", "contents": "Choledochal cyst presenting as pancreatitis. A patient with choledochal cyst presenting with recurrent pancreatitis is described. The cyst was suspected on endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP), then was diagnosed by intravenous cholangiography and abdominal angiography. It was confirmed at surgery. The clinical, radiological and surgical features of this disorder are described and the importance of this entity as a possible correctable cause of pancreatitis is stressed.", "PMID": 453132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10417", "title": "Partial duodenal obstruction in presence of complete rotation of the colon.", "content": "Two children were admitted with partial obstruction of the duodenum due to its incomplete rotation and fixation. The colon in both cases was rotated normally. Our experience with these children, along with embryological evidence to understand the above entity, is presented.", "contents": "Partial duodenal obstruction in presence of complete rotation of the colon. Two children were admitted with partial obstruction of the duodenum due to its incomplete rotation and fixation. The colon in both cases was rotated normally. Our experience with these children, along with embryological evidence to understand the above entity, is presented.", "PMID": 453134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10418", "title": "Primary pulmonary hypertension presenting as portal hypertension.", "content": "A two and a half-year old child is described who presented with signs of portal hypertension (hematemesis, hepatosplenomegaly, ascites). Her subsequent work-up revealed that the \"pressure-head\" originated within the pulmonary arterial bed. Indeed, severe changes of primary pulmonary hypertension were found at autopsy. What is unique about this case is the absence of cardiopulmonary symptoms prior to the development of suprahepatic portal hypertension. In addition, the pulmonary disease developed in the absence of underlying chronic hepatic disease or extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis which, reportedly, can lead to pulmonary hypertension.", "contents": "Primary pulmonary hypertension presenting as portal hypertension. A two and a half-year old child is described who presented with signs of portal hypertension (hematemesis, hepatosplenomegaly, ascites). Her subsequent work-up revealed that the \"pressure-head\" originated within the pulmonary arterial bed. Indeed, severe changes of primary pulmonary hypertension were found at autopsy. What is unique about this case is the absence of cardiopulmonary symptoms prior to the development of suprahepatic portal hypertension. In addition, the pulmonary disease developed in the absence of underlying chronic hepatic disease or extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis which, reportedly, can lead to pulmonary hypertension.", "PMID": 453136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10419", "title": "Low incidence of bacteremia following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).", "content": "Fifty patients (29 females) undergoing ERCP were studied prospectively for the occurrence of bacteremia associated with this endoscopic procedure. Each patient had blood samples drawn for aerobic and anaerobic cultures before endoscopy, after entering the duodenum, 5 and 15 minutes after cannulation of the papilla of Vater. Subcultures were made at 24 and 48 hours for a total of 1,200 cultures. No positive cultures were obtained in 48 patients. One patient developed a Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteremia during the procedure. The cleansing technic for the instruments consisted of alcohol and water only. Prophylactic antiobiotics were not administered. In contrast to other gastrointestinal procedures, our results suggest that bacteremia is an uncommon occurrence in ERCP despite the longer duration of the procedure and instrumentation of a sterile duct system.", "contents": "Low incidence of bacteremia following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Fifty patients (29 females) undergoing ERCP were studied prospectively for the occurrence of bacteremia associated with this endoscopic procedure. Each patient had blood samples drawn for aerobic and anaerobic cultures before endoscopy, after entering the duodenum, 5 and 15 minutes after cannulation of the papilla of Vater. Subcultures were made at 24 and 48 hours for a total of 1,200 cultures. No positive cultures were obtained in 48 patients. One patient developed a Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteremia during the procedure. The cleansing technic for the instruments consisted of alcohol and water only. Prophylactic antiobiotics were not administered. In contrast to other gastrointestinal procedures, our results suggest that bacteremia is an uncommon occurrence in ERCP despite the longer duration of the procedure and instrumentation of a sterile duct system.", "PMID": 453138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10420", "title": "Definitive diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma with percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsy under ultrasonic guidance.", "content": "Definitive diagnosis of pancreatic cancer presents difficulties in that positive identification is often possible only by intraoperative biopsy. Recently, ultrasonic visualization of the pancreas has made preoperative diagnosis possible by furnishing a guide to percutaneous biopsy via a flexible 23-gauge, 0.6 mm. needle.", "contents": "Definitive diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma with percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsy under ultrasonic guidance. Definitive diagnosis of pancreatic cancer presents difficulties in that positive identification is often possible only by intraoperative biopsy. Recently, ultrasonic visualization of the pancreas has made preoperative diagnosis possible by furnishing a guide to percutaneous biopsy via a flexible 23-gauge, 0.6 mm. needle.", "PMID": 453139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10421", "title": "Brucella-induced cholecystitis.", "content": "Acute cholecystitis is a rare complication of systemic brucellosis. This report details the occurrence of acute noncalculous cholecystitis in which Brucella suis was cultured from both the blood and the gallbladder. A discussion of the various diagnostic tests and the recommended therapy for brucellosis is included.", "contents": "Brucella-induced cholecystitis. Acute cholecystitis is a rare complication of systemic brucellosis. This report details the occurrence of acute noncalculous cholecystitis in which Brucella suis was cultured from both the blood and the gallbladder. A discussion of the various diagnostic tests and the recommended therapy for brucellosis is included.", "PMID": 453141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10422", "title": "Neonatal duodenal obstruction.", "content": "The records of 40 infants with intrinsic duodenal obstruction have been reviewed. Of these more than half had no bile in the vomit. Persistent vomiting had been considered as the major factor of doubt regarding duodenal obstruction. The incidence of other associated congenital abnormalities was 70%. The over all mortality rate was 42.5%. The association of mongoloidism to the intrinsic duodenal obstruction was found approximately in every third infant. The low birth weight without other congenital abnormality has very little effect on the mortality rate.", "contents": "Neonatal duodenal obstruction. The records of 40 infants with intrinsic duodenal obstruction have been reviewed. Of these more than half had no bile in the vomit. Persistent vomiting had been considered as the major factor of doubt regarding duodenal obstruction. The incidence of other associated congenital abnormalities was 70%. The over all mortality rate was 42.5%. The association of mongoloidism to the intrinsic duodenal obstruction was found approximately in every third infant. The low birth weight without other congenital abnormality has very little effect on the mortality rate.", "PMID": 453142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10423", "title": "Unusual presentation of pulmonary inflammatory pseudotumor (plasma cell granuloma) as esophageal obstruction.", "content": "A 12-year old boy had a five-year course of dysphagia secondary to lower esophageal obstruction by a posterior mediastinal extension of an inflammatory pseudotumor of the lung. The case illustrates the capacity of pseudotumor to behave in a locally aggressive manner and to present in extrapulmonic sites.", "contents": "Unusual presentation of pulmonary inflammatory pseudotumor (plasma cell granuloma) as esophageal obstruction. A 12-year old boy had a five-year course of dysphagia secondary to lower esophageal obstruction by a posterior mediastinal extension of an inflammatory pseudotumor of the lung. The case illustrates the capacity of pseudotumor to behave in a locally aggressive manner and to present in extrapulmonic sites.", "PMID": 453145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10424", "title": "Fiberendoscopic removal of long foreign bodies from the stomach using a colon stiffening tube as a protective sheath.", "content": "A colonoscopic stiffening tube was effectively used as a protective sheath in the esophagus during the endoscopic removal of a long ballpoint pen and a writing pencil from the stomach.", "contents": "Fiberendoscopic removal of long foreign bodies from the stomach using a colon stiffening tube as a protective sheath. A colonoscopic stiffening tube was effectively used as a protective sheath in the esophagus during the endoscopic removal of a long ballpoint pen and a writing pencil from the stomach.", "PMID": 453146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10425", "title": "Unusual outcome of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography.", "content": "In a 72-year old male with fever, mild jaundice and moderate enlargement of both liver and spleen, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography resulted in direct filling of the portal vein system. Both trunc and left and right hepatic lobe branches showed a typical pattern of incomplete portal vein thrombosis, with mural irregularities and radiolucencies within the lumen. On subsequent operative cholangiography the biliary tract was shown to be normal. At autopsy multiple intrahepatic abscesses of pylephlebitic origin were found. The significance of visualization of the portal vein system during PTC is briefly discussed in comparison with other angiographic technics.", "contents": "Unusual outcome of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. In a 72-year old male with fever, mild jaundice and moderate enlargement of both liver and spleen, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography resulted in direct filling of the portal vein system. Both trunc and left and right hepatic lobe branches showed a typical pattern of incomplete portal vein thrombosis, with mural irregularities and radiolucencies within the lumen. On subsequent operative cholangiography the biliary tract was shown to be normal. At autopsy multiple intrahepatic abscesses of pylephlebitic origin were found. The significance of visualization of the portal vein system during PTC is briefly discussed in comparison with other angiographic technics.", "PMID": 453148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10426", "title": "Endoscopic electrocoagulation of actively bleeding arterial upper gastrointestinal lesions.", "content": "Emergency endoscopy to find the site of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is now accepted as the diagnostic method of choice. Endoscopic electrocoagulation in uncontrolled series has been successful in 98% of patients so treated (142 of 147). If a vessel is seen in an ulcer bed, some preliminary data would support surgical treatment. In my opinion, electrocoagulation is favored to prevent further bleeding. While some physicians have found electrocoagulation safe and effective, there are some who remain guardedly cautious. In the near future, a multicenter randomized study will begin to further assess the usefulness, effectiveness and safety of endoscopic electrocoagulation. Endoscopic electrocoagulation has opened a Pandora's box to exciting research in finding ways of treating acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Currently, electrocoagulation is the front runner.", "contents": "Endoscopic electrocoagulation of actively bleeding arterial upper gastrointestinal lesions. Emergency endoscopy to find the site of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is now accepted as the diagnostic method of choice. Endoscopic electrocoagulation in uncontrolled series has been successful in 98% of patients so treated (142 of 147). If a vessel is seen in an ulcer bed, some preliminary data would support surgical treatment. In my opinion, electrocoagulation is favored to prevent further bleeding. While some physicians have found electrocoagulation safe and effective, there are some who remain guardedly cautious. In the near future, a multicenter randomized study will begin to further assess the usefulness, effectiveness and safety of endoscopic electrocoagulation. Endoscopic electrocoagulation has opened a Pandora's box to exciting research in finding ways of treating acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Currently, electrocoagulation is the front runner.", "PMID": 453149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10427", "title": "Diagnosis of early gastric cancer.", "content": "Early gastric cancer is being encountered with increasing frequency in Germany as well as Japan and elsewhere through greater awareness, selection of high risk patients and improved diagnostic methods. We consider endoscopy superior to radiology in the detection of early gastric cancer. Polypoid lesions of the stomach need endoscopic biopsy or removal for proper diagnosis. Gastric ulcers should be followed by endoscopy and guided biopsies until healing is complete. Adequate sampling of a suspected gastric lesion may require multiple biopsy specimens for accurate histological interpretation.", "contents": "Diagnosis of early gastric cancer. Early gastric cancer is being encountered with increasing frequency in Germany as well as Japan and elsewhere through greater awareness, selection of high risk patients and improved diagnostic methods. We consider endoscopy superior to radiology in the detection of early gastric cancer. Polypoid lesions of the stomach need endoscopic biopsy or removal for proper diagnosis. Gastric ulcers should be followed by endoscopy and guided biopsies until healing is complete. Adequate sampling of a suspected gastric lesion may require multiple biopsy specimens for accurate histological interpretation.", "PMID": 453153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10428", "title": "Effect of monopolar electrocoagulation on esophagus, stomach and duodenum in dogs.", "content": "The effects of electrocoagulation on the esophagus, stomach and duodenum of mongrel dogs were studied. A commercially available electrocoagulator unit and suction electrode were used. Various dial settings and duration times were used. The total number of sites electrocoagulated was 945; histologic section of each site was prepared. A dial setting of 7 and duration of 5 seconds was safe for the canine esophagus and duodenum; for the stomach it is a dial setting of 7 and duration of 3 seconds. This information will be useful in safe application of electrocoagulation to superficial bleeding lesions in the canine esophagus, stomach and duodenum.", "contents": "Effect of monopolar electrocoagulation on esophagus, stomach and duodenum in dogs. The effects of electrocoagulation on the esophagus, stomach and duodenum of mongrel dogs were studied. A commercially available electrocoagulator unit and suction electrode were used. Various dial settings and duration times were used. The total number of sites electrocoagulated was 945; histologic section of each site was prepared. A dial setting of 7 and duration of 5 seconds was safe for the canine esophagus and duodenum; for the stomach it is a dial setting of 7 and duration of 3 seconds. This information will be useful in safe application of electrocoagulation to superficial bleeding lesions in the canine esophagus, stomach and duodenum.", "PMID": 453154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10429", "title": "Crohn's disease of the appendix, manifested as acute appendicitis with postoperative fistula.", "content": "Two cases are reported of Crohn's disease localized to the appendix and manifested as acute appendicitis; after appendectomy a fistula developed. In none of 18 patients with Crohn's disease reported by other authors, where the appendix was the primary site, did a fistula develop postoperatively. When the appendix is the primary site of Crohn's disease the presence of mild inflammation of adjacent organs such as the terminal ileum may be mistakenly attributed to ordinary appendicitis. If, at exploratory laparotomy performed on a tentative diagnosis of appendicitis, Crohn's disease is suspected in the adjacent intestine, it is proposed that appendectomy should be followed by at least 10 days of total parenteral nutrition to minimize the risk of a fistula developing.", "contents": "Crohn's disease of the appendix, manifested as acute appendicitis with postoperative fistula. Two cases are reported of Crohn's disease localized to the appendix and manifested as acute appendicitis; after appendectomy a fistula developed. In none of 18 patients with Crohn's disease reported by other authors, where the appendix was the primary site, did a fistula develop postoperatively. When the appendix is the primary site of Crohn's disease the presence of mild inflammation of adjacent organs such as the terminal ileum may be mistakenly attributed to ordinary appendicitis. If, at exploratory laparotomy performed on a tentative diagnosis of appendicitis, Crohn's disease is suspected in the adjacent intestine, it is proposed that appendectomy should be followed by at least 10 days of total parenteral nutrition to minimize the risk of a fistula developing.", "PMID": 453156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10430", "title": "Umbilicated gastric polyposis. An indicator of metastatic gastric tumor.", "content": "A case of multiple centrally umbilicated gastric polyps is presented. Several endoscopic biopsies of the various polyps rapidly established the histological diagnosis of amelantoic melanoma. The significance and differential diagnosis of this endoscopic lesion is discussed.", "contents": "Umbilicated gastric polyposis. An indicator of metastatic gastric tumor. A case of multiple centrally umbilicated gastric polyps is presented. Several endoscopic biopsies of the various polyps rapidly established the histological diagnosis of amelantoic melanoma. The significance and differential diagnosis of this endoscopic lesion is discussed.", "PMID": 453157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10431", "title": "Plasmacytoma of the stomach.", "content": "A case of gastric plasmacytoma is presented. A detailed study including a selective angiogram described this unusual gastric neoplasm. Pathological examination by both light and electron microscopy confirmed the diagnosis of primary gastric plasmacytoma. The diagnosis and treatment of primary gastric plasmacytoma is discussed and pertinent literature is reviewed.", "contents": "Plasmacytoma of the stomach. A case of gastric plasmacytoma is presented. A detailed study including a selective angiogram described this unusual gastric neoplasm. Pathological examination by both light and electron microscopy confirmed the diagnosis of primary gastric plasmacytoma. The diagnosis and treatment of primary gastric plasmacytoma is discussed and pertinent literature is reviewed.", "PMID": 453158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10432", "title": "Traumatic hemobilia. Diagnosis by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography.", "content": "A patient with traumatic hemobilia documented by retrograde endoscopic cholangiography and treated by right hepatic artery ligation, is described. The role of ERCP in making the diagnosis of traumatic hemobilia is discussed.", "contents": "Traumatic hemobilia. Diagnosis by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. A patient with traumatic hemobilia documented by retrograde endoscopic cholangiography and treated by right hepatic artery ligation, is described. The role of ERCP in making the diagnosis of traumatic hemobilia is discussed.", "PMID": 453159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10433", "title": "Hemoperitoneum from a ruptured varix in cirrhosis. Case report and literature review.", "content": "A cirrhotic patient with hemoperitoneum is presented. The diagnosis of ruptured retroperitoneal varices was made at laparotomy and the patient becomes the second reported case to survive hospitalization for bleeding intra-abdominal varices. The formation of varices as a consequence of portal hypertension is discussed; the differential diagnosis and evaluation of hemoperitoneum is considered and the seven previously reported cases of intra-abdominal variceal hemorrhage are reviewed.", "contents": "Hemoperitoneum from a ruptured varix in cirrhosis. Case report and literature review. A cirrhotic patient with hemoperitoneum is presented. The diagnosis of ruptured retroperitoneal varices was made at laparotomy and the patient becomes the second reported case to survive hospitalization for bleeding intra-abdominal varices. The formation of varices as a consequence of portal hypertension is discussed; the differential diagnosis and evaluation of hemoperitoneum is considered and the seven previously reported cases of intra-abdominal variceal hemorrhage are reviewed.", "PMID": 453161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10434", "title": "Ascending colon volvulus due to a vitelline duct remnant in an elderly patient.", "content": "A 77-year old female is presented with volvulus of the ascending colon due to torsion around a vitelline duct remnant. Symptoms were mild and intermittent. Roentgenograms are presented which demonstrated this lesion preoperatively. At surgery the ascending colon was found to be twisted around a fibrous band extending from the umbilicus to the ileum.", "contents": "Ascending colon volvulus due to a vitelline duct remnant in an elderly patient. A 77-year old female is presented with volvulus of the ascending colon due to torsion around a vitelline duct remnant. Symptoms were mild and intermittent. Roentgenograms are presented which demonstrated this lesion preoperatively. At surgery the ascending colon was found to be twisted around a fibrous band extending from the umbilicus to the ileum.", "PMID": 453162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10435", "title": "Caroli's disease. description of a rare clinical case with monolobar localization.", "content": "A case of monolobar localization of Caroli's disease with intrahepatic cholesterol gallstones is described. The patient was successfully treated with left hepatic resection. Residual intrahepatic cholesterol gallstones causing frequent cholangitis dissolved with chenodeoxycholic acid treatment.", "contents": "Caroli's disease. description of a rare clinical case with monolobar localization. A case of monolobar localization of Caroli's disease with intrahepatic cholesterol gallstones is described. The patient was successfully treated with left hepatic resection. Residual intrahepatic cholesterol gallstones causing frequent cholangitis dissolved with chenodeoxycholic acid treatment.", "PMID": 453163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10436", "title": "Malignant carcinoid of the appendix: case report with radiographic and angiographic demonstration.", "content": "An unusual case of a malignant carcinoid of the appendix is reported, together with a brief review of the pertinent literature. The case exhibited mesenteric invasion, peritoneal seeding, terminal ileal ischemia and features of the carcinoid syndrome. The radiographic and angiographic documentation are unique in the literature.", "contents": "Malignant carcinoid of the appendix: case report with radiographic and angiographic demonstration. An unusual case of a malignant carcinoid of the appendix is reported, together with a brief review of the pertinent literature. The case exhibited mesenteric invasion, peritoneal seeding, terminal ileal ischemia and features of the carcinoid syndrome. The radiographic and angiographic documentation are unique in the literature.", "PMID": 453164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10437", "title": "Electrical wiring configurations and childhood cancer.", "content": "An excess of electrical wiring configurations suggestive of high current-flow was noted in Colorado in 1976--1977 near the homes of children who developed cancer, as compared to the homes of control children. The finding was strongest for children who had spent their entire lives at the same address, and it appeared to be dose-related. It did not seem to be an artifact of neighborhood, street congestion, social class, or family structure. The reason for the correlation is uncertain; possible effects of current in the water pipes or of AC magnetic fields are suggested.", "contents": "Electrical wiring configurations and childhood cancer. An excess of electrical wiring configurations suggestive of high current-flow was noted in Colorado in 1976--1977 near the homes of children who developed cancer, as compared to the homes of control children. The finding was strongest for children who had spent their entire lives at the same address, and it appeared to be dose-related. It did not seem to be an artifact of neighborhood, street congestion, social class, or family structure. The reason for the correlation is uncertain; possible effects of current in the water pipes or of AC magnetic fields are suggested.", "PMID": 453167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10438", "title": "Risk factors for brain tumors in children.", "content": "An exploratory case-control study was conducted in 15 hospitals in the Baltimore, MD, SMSA of possible etiologic factors associated with brain tumors in children. Eighty-four children with brain tumors were compared to normal children and to children with other malignancies. Parents of these children were interviewed about a variety of possible etiologic factors. The findings included: 1) children with brain tumors as well as children with other cancers had a greater tendency than normal children to have been first births and to have had higher birth weights; 2) more children with brain tumors had a sibling with epilepsy or seizures than did normal children, and several of the mothers of children with brain tumors had themselves had epilepsy or a stroke at a relatively young age; 3) there were no significant differences between the groups with regard to several maternal characteristics, including smoking during pregnancy and prior radiation exposure; 4) more children with brain tumors and children with other cancers were found to have had exposures to insecticides than had normal children; 5) fewer children with brain tumors or with other cancers were reported to have had tonsillectomies than normal children; and 6) more of the children with brain tumors as well as the children with other malignancies were reported to have been exposed to farm animals and to sick pets. This exploratory study is one of the first case-control studies of the epidemiology of brain tumors in children, and the results suggest directions for future epidemiologic studies in this relatively uncharted field.", "contents": "Risk factors for brain tumors in children. An exploratory case-control study was conducted in 15 hospitals in the Baltimore, MD, SMSA of possible etiologic factors associated with brain tumors in children. Eighty-four children with brain tumors were compared to normal children and to children with other malignancies. Parents of these children were interviewed about a variety of possible etiologic factors. The findings included: 1) children with brain tumors as well as children with other cancers had a greater tendency than normal children to have been first births and to have had higher birth weights; 2) more children with brain tumors had a sibling with epilepsy or seizures than did normal children, and several of the mothers of children with brain tumors had themselves had epilepsy or a stroke at a relatively young age; 3) there were no significant differences between the groups with regard to several maternal characteristics, including smoking during pregnancy and prior radiation exposure; 4) more children with brain tumors and children with other cancers were found to have had exposures to insecticides than had normal children; 5) fewer children with brain tumors or with other cancers were reported to have had tonsillectomies than normal children; and 6) more of the children with brain tumors as well as the children with other malignancies were reported to have been exposed to farm animals and to sick pets. This exploratory study is one of the first case-control studies of the epidemiology of brain tumors in children, and the results suggest directions for future epidemiologic studies in this relatively uncharted field.", "PMID": 453168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10439", "title": "Time course studies of blood pressure in children--the Bogalusa Heart Study.", "content": "Blood pressures (BPs) were taken with a mercury sphygmomanometer and an automatic recorder on 3524 children representative of an entire geographic community. For all children ages 5, 8, 11, and 14 years in the initial examination, age-specific systolic and diastolic (4th phase) selected percentiles were assessed. Of these children, 1101 were reexamined after one year. Observations from a group of 35 fifth-graders examined monthly for eight months were pooled to observe intra-child BP variability. This estimate was used to reduce to zero in a statistical adjustment the regression toward the mean of the BPs for the after-one-year reexamined children. It was found that those children initially in the top ten percentiles had, upon reexamination, on the average only 3 mmHg lower systolic and 1 mmHg lower diastolic levels. In a multiple regression analysis, the previous year's BP contributed a partial correlation coefficient of 0.6--0.7 for each age cohort to the variability of the BP, controlling for other determinants. These findings, based on reliable, basal-like measurements, point to a degree of persistence which is quite high. The higher the degree of tracking the more likely that primary hypertension begins early in life.", "contents": "Time course studies of blood pressure in children--the Bogalusa Heart Study. Blood pressures (BPs) were taken with a mercury sphygmomanometer and an automatic recorder on 3524 children representative of an entire geographic community. For all children ages 5, 8, 11, and 14 years in the initial examination, age-specific systolic and diastolic (4th phase) selected percentiles were assessed. Of these children, 1101 were reexamined after one year. Observations from a group of 35 fifth-graders examined monthly for eight months were pooled to observe intra-child BP variability. This estimate was used to reduce to zero in a statistical adjustment the regression toward the mean of the BPs for the after-one-year reexamined children. It was found that those children initially in the top ten percentiles had, upon reexamination, on the average only 3 mmHg lower systolic and 1 mmHg lower diastolic levels. In a multiple regression analysis, the previous year's BP contributed a partial correlation coefficient of 0.6--0.7 for each age cohort to the variability of the BP, controlling for other determinants. These findings, based on reliable, basal-like measurements, point to a degree of persistence which is quite high. The higher the degree of tracking the more likely that primary hypertension begins early in life.", "PMID": 453169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10440", "title": "Blood pressure survey on the Navajo Indian reservation.", "content": "The authors conducted blood pressure screening on the Navajo Indian reservation in northeastern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico. Six hundred forty Navajos over 19 years of age were surveyed at various sites. The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures in Navajo men and women did not show as great increases with age as those seen among white and black Americans. Navajos also had generally lower blood pressures and lower prevalence of hypertension than white and black Americans. The authors were unable to demonstrate any association between degree of acculturation and blood pressure, but they did find that obesity in both men and women and alcohol use in men were associated with a higher prevalence of elevated pressure in the Navajos.", "contents": "Blood pressure survey on the Navajo Indian reservation. The authors conducted blood pressure screening on the Navajo Indian reservation in northeastern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico. Six hundred forty Navajos over 19 years of age were surveyed at various sites. The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures in Navajo men and women did not show as great increases with age as those seen among white and black Americans. Navajos also had generally lower blood pressures and lower prevalence of hypertension than white and black Americans. The authors were unable to demonstrate any association between degree of acculturation and blood pressure, but they did find that obesity in both men and women and alcohol use in men were associated with a higher prevalence of elevated pressure in the Navajos.", "PMID": 453170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10441", "title": "Sperm count depression in pesticide applicators exposed to dibromochloropropane.", "content": "Male pesticide applicators who worked with the nematocide dibromochloropropane (DBCP) were examined to determine the possible testicular toxicity from this exposure. Infertility and azoospermia which were first noted among factory workers exposed to DBCP were not observed among the applicators. Sperm count depression, however, was associated with the duration of exposure in the current year but not with exposure in past years. The extent of exposure to DBCP in the current year was also associated with an elevation of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) but not of luteinizing hormone (LH). Sperm count depression was limited to applicators involved in irrigation setup work and in the calibration of equipment. These results suggest that the testicular toxicity of DBCP for men may occur in a shorter period than was previously reported, that the effect may be reversible in men with mild sperm count depression, and that public health measures might be directed at controlling specific application techniques.", "contents": "Sperm count depression in pesticide applicators exposed to dibromochloropropane. Male pesticide applicators who worked with the nematocide dibromochloropropane (DBCP) were examined to determine the possible testicular toxicity from this exposure. Infertility and azoospermia which were first noted among factory workers exposed to DBCP were not observed among the applicators. Sperm count depression, however, was associated with the duration of exposure in the current year but not with exposure in past years. The extent of exposure to DBCP in the current year was also associated with an elevation of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) but not of luteinizing hormone (LH). Sperm count depression was limited to applicators involved in irrigation setup work and in the calibration of equipment. These results suggest that the testicular toxicity of DBCP for men may occur in a shorter period than was previously reported, that the effect may be reversible in men with mild sperm count depression, and that public health measures might be directed at controlling specific application techniques.", "PMID": 453171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10442", "title": "Choosing the parameter for a 2 x 2 table or a 2 x 2 x 2 table analysis.", "content": "Fourteen 2 x 2 table measures of association are compared and six 2 x 2 x 2 table measures of synergism are compared. The presentation is based on a conceptual population model for the true association between the disease and the risk factor(s). Each measure is judged as to potential use and identified with the study designs under which it can be estimated. It is shown that prior information about the correct population model is required to adequately measure synergism.", "contents": "Choosing the parameter for a 2 x 2 table or a 2 x 2 x 2 table analysis. Fourteen 2 x 2 table measures of association are compared and six 2 x 2 x 2 table measures of synergism are compared. The presentation is based on a conceptual population model for the true association between the disease and the risk factor(s). Each measure is judged as to potential use and identified with the study designs under which it can be estimated. It is shown that prior information about the correct population model is required to adequately measure synergism.", "PMID": 453172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10443", "title": "Temporal variation in suicide and homicide.", "content": "In this study of all of the violent deaths in the US over two years, clear monthly and daily variations were found. Suicide peaked in the Spring and Fall; homicide in July and December. Suicide was more common on Mondays; homicide on Saturdays and Sundays. Homicide was more common on national holidays, while suicide tended to be less common. No lunar variation was found.", "contents": "Temporal variation in suicide and homicide. In this study of all of the violent deaths in the US over two years, clear monthly and daily variations were found. Suicide peaked in the Spring and Fall; homicide in July and December. Suicide was more common on Mondays; homicide on Saturdays and Sundays. Homicide was more common on national holidays, while suicide tended to be less common. No lunar variation was found.", "PMID": 453175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10444", "title": "Components of the difference in hemoglobin concentrations in blood between black and white women in the United States.", "content": "Hemoglobin and the per cent transferrin saturation (TS) distributions of 742 black and 3074 white women drawn from a large probability sample of the US civilian noninstitutionalized population (HANES I) were examined to ascertain the magnitude and nature of an observed systematic difference in hemoglobin levels. This significant hemoglobin difference was primarily related to a different relationship between hemoglobin and TS for blacks and whites, and not related to differences in TS between the races. This difference between the races in the relationship between hemoglobin and TS explained almost all of the difference in hemoglobin concentration at the mean, the median and higher percentiles, and half or more of the difference at the first and third percentiles of the cumulative hemoglobin distributions of the white and black populations sampled. The practical implication of these findings is that white hemoglobin diagnostic criteria (standards) are inappropriate for blacks, and vice versa, both at the mean and at the lower hemoglobin levels of clinical interest.", "contents": "Components of the difference in hemoglobin concentrations in blood between black and white women in the United States. Hemoglobin and the per cent transferrin saturation (TS) distributions of 742 black and 3074 white women drawn from a large probability sample of the US civilian noninstitutionalized population (HANES I) were examined to ascertain the magnitude and nature of an observed systematic difference in hemoglobin levels. This significant hemoglobin difference was primarily related to a different relationship between hemoglobin and TS for blacks and whites, and not related to differences in TS between the races. This difference between the races in the relationship between hemoglobin and TS explained almost all of the difference in hemoglobin concentration at the mean, the median and higher percentiles, and half or more of the difference at the first and third percentiles of the cumulative hemoglobin distributions of the white and black populations sampled. The practical implication of these findings is that white hemoglobin diagnostic criteria (standards) are inappropriate for blacks, and vice versa, both at the mean and at the lower hemoglobin levels of clinical interest.", "PMID": 453177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10445", "title": "Influenza surveillance by age and target group.", "content": "Surveillance for influenza virus infections began in mid-1976, continued through three small influenza A outbreaks (mixed A/Victoria and A/Texas outbreaks in Spring, 1977, and Winter, 1977-1978 and an A/USSR outbreak peaking in March, 1978). Nasopharyngeal specimens were collected for virus isolation from febrile respiratory disease patients coming from four sources: 1) the Sunday walk-in clinic of the Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound; 2) 200 families under continuous surveillance for respiratory viral infections; 3) patients referred by interested community physicians or self-referred persons in vaccine evaluation studies; and 4) students presenting at the University of Washington health center. Influenza virus isolation rates were as high in children as adults and peaked earlier in adults than in children in all three epidemics. Although referred patients and university students yielded the highest isolation rate, nearly 30%, all four community sources were important in detecting an impending epidemic.", "contents": "Influenza surveillance by age and target group. Surveillance for influenza virus infections began in mid-1976, continued through three small influenza A outbreaks (mixed A/Victoria and A/Texas outbreaks in Spring, 1977, and Winter, 1977-1978 and an A/USSR outbreak peaking in March, 1978). Nasopharyngeal specimens were collected for virus isolation from febrile respiratory disease patients coming from four sources: 1) the Sunday walk-in clinic of the Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound; 2) 200 families under continuous surveillance for respiratory viral infections; 3) patients referred by interested community physicians or self-referred persons in vaccine evaluation studies; and 4) students presenting at the University of Washington health center. Influenza virus isolation rates were as high in children as adults and peaked earlier in adults than in children in all three epidemics. Although referred patients and university students yielded the highest isolation rate, nearly 30%, all four community sources were important in detecting an impending epidemic.", "PMID": 453178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10446", "title": "Path analysis of environmental and genetic influences on blood pressure.", "content": "Familial aggregation of a trait (determined by the intraclass correlation coefficient) may result from genetic influence or from environment common to a household. The authors used path analysis to separate aggregation into the proportion of population variability due to genetic influence (h2 = heritability) and the proportion due to environment common to a household (c2). They used data from full siblings and maternal half siblings, aged two to 18 years, from Bogalusa, Louisiana, a biracial community. The statistically significant aggregation they found could be explained by either h2 or c2 except for two cases: systolic measurement in the pooled (black and white) sample requires h2; diastolic measurement in the white sample requires c2. The authors present a simplified explanation of the techniques they used.", "contents": "Path analysis of environmental and genetic influences on blood pressure. Familial aggregation of a trait (determined by the intraclass correlation coefficient) may result from genetic influence or from environment common to a household. The authors used path analysis to separate aggregation into the proportion of population variability due to genetic influence (h2 = heritability) and the proportion due to environment common to a household (c2). They used data from full siblings and maternal half siblings, aged two to 18 years, from Bogalusa, Louisiana, a biracial community. The statistically significant aggregation they found could be explained by either h2 or c2 except for two cases: systolic measurement in the pooled (black and white) sample requires h2; diastolic measurement in the white sample requires c2. The authors present a simplified explanation of the techniques they used.", "PMID": 453179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10447", "title": "A rank statistic for assessing the amount of variation explained by risk factors in epidemiologic studies.", "content": "A statistic, Q, based on the ranks of the estimated probabilities of disease is proposed for assessing the effectiveness of regression models used with dichotomous dependent variables in epidemiologic studies of risk factors for chronic diseases. The pitfalls of R2 are discussed, and the proposed statistic is compared with R2 utilizing 8.6-year incidence data from the national cooperative Pooling Project and 15-year mortality data from the Chicago Peoples Gas Company Study. Based on the risk factors, systolic blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and smoking status for middle-aged males, the proposed statistic, Q, attains from 27-44% of its maximum value for the endpoint, the first major coronary event, and from 35-46% of the maximum for death from the cardiovascular diseases.", "contents": "A rank statistic for assessing the amount of variation explained by risk factors in epidemiologic studies. A statistic, Q, based on the ranks of the estimated probabilities of disease is proposed for assessing the effectiveness of regression models used with dichotomous dependent variables in epidemiologic studies of risk factors for chronic diseases. The pitfalls of R2 are discussed, and the proposed statistic is compared with R2 utilizing 8.6-year incidence data from the national cooperative Pooling Project and 15-year mortality data from the Chicago Peoples Gas Company Study. Based on the risk factors, systolic blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and smoking status for middle-aged males, the proposed statistic, Q, attains from 27-44% of its maximum value for the endpoint, the first major coronary event, and from 35-46% of the maximum for death from the cardiovascular diseases.", "PMID": 453180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10448", "title": "Altitude and ischemic heart disease in tricultural New Mexico: an example of confounding.", "content": "The relationship of male white ischemic heart disease (IHD) death rates to altitude falls to negligible levels when New Mexico populations are separated into Hispanic and Anglo. Low rates of IHD mortality characterize Hispanic males in New Mexico regardless of altitude. In comparison, New Mexico Anglo males have rates near the US average. The variable showing the most consistent positive relationship with altitude is per cent Hispanic. Mortimer et al. (N Engl J Med 296:581--587, 1977) reported a reduction in coronary heart disease mortality in New Mexico white males with an increase in altitude. The current authors claim that this is an example of confounding. They find that the relationship between IHD mortality and altitude is largely due to the intervening variable, per cent Hispanic. Ethnicity demands major attention in epidemiologic studies in tricultural New Mexico.", "contents": "Altitude and ischemic heart disease in tricultural New Mexico: an example of confounding. The relationship of male white ischemic heart disease (IHD) death rates to altitude falls to negligible levels when New Mexico populations are separated into Hispanic and Anglo. Low rates of IHD mortality characterize Hispanic males in New Mexico regardless of altitude. In comparison, New Mexico Anglo males have rates near the US average. The variable showing the most consistent positive relationship with altitude is per cent Hispanic. Mortimer et al. (N Engl J Med 296:581--587, 1977) reported a reduction in coronary heart disease mortality in New Mexico white males with an increase in altitude. The current authors claim that this is an example of confounding. They find that the relationship between IHD mortality and altitude is largely due to the intervening variable, per cent Hispanic. Ethnicity demands major attention in epidemiologic studies in tricultural New Mexico.", "PMID": 453186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10449", "title": "Mortality patterns among workers in a gray iron foundry.", "content": "The long-term mortality experience of 2861 men employed for at least one month in the period 1938 to 1967 in a gray iron foundry was examined to determine if they experienced unusual death rates for specific causes indicative of exposure to hazardous materials in the work environment. Both white and non-white workers experienced favorable mortality for most major disease categories compared to general population rates, even men employed five or more years. No deaths from pneumoconiosis were observed nor were deaths from other chronic respiratory diseases in excess. Analysis of detailed cancer sites showed no significant departures from expectation overall. However, in the subgroup of men who achieved five or more years employment prior to 1938, a twofold increase in mortality from digestive cancer (14 observed deaths vs. 7.4 expected) and respiratory cancer (8 observed deaths vs. 4.0 expected) was seen. Absence of information on specific foundry jobs held by the subjects and associated exposures limits full interpretation of the findings. However, the excess observed for respiratory cancer among long-term employees followed for 30 years is consistent with previous reports.", "contents": "Mortality patterns among workers in a gray iron foundry. The long-term mortality experience of 2861 men employed for at least one month in the period 1938 to 1967 in a gray iron foundry was examined to determine if they experienced unusual death rates for specific causes indicative of exposure to hazardous materials in the work environment. Both white and non-white workers experienced favorable mortality for most major disease categories compared to general population rates, even men employed five or more years. No deaths from pneumoconiosis were observed nor were deaths from other chronic respiratory diseases in excess. Analysis of detailed cancer sites showed no significant departures from expectation overall. However, in the subgroup of men who achieved five or more years employment prior to 1938, a twofold increase in mortality from digestive cancer (14 observed deaths vs. 7.4 expected) and respiratory cancer (8 observed deaths vs. 4.0 expected) was seen. Absence of information on specific foundry jobs held by the subjects and associated exposures limits full interpretation of the findings. However, the excess observed for respiratory cancer among long-term employees followed for 30 years is consistent with previous reports.", "PMID": 453187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10450", "title": "Studies on hematopoietic stem cells: XI. Lack of erythroid burst-forming units (BFU-E) in patients with aplastic anemia.", "content": "The marrow concentration of erythropoietic precursors was examined in normal donors and patients with idiopathic aplastic anemia using a plasma clot culture system. On time course observations the heterogeneity of human erythroid precursors assayable in culture was demonstrated. To evaluate human erythropoiesis in vitro, the benzidine-positive colonies were divided into three groups: small colony, containing 8-50 cells; medium-sized colony, containing 50-500 cells; and large colony, containing more than 500 cells. The majority of the large colonies assumed the morphology of erythropietic bursts (BFU-E) consisted of several subcolonies. The small colonies were counted as CFU-E1, the medium-sized as CFU-E2, and the large as BFU-E to evaluate the erythroid precursor cell compartment in aplastic anemia. The marrow concentration of CFU-E1 and CFU-E2 was shown to be quantitatively diminished in aplastic anemia. In addition, there was no ability of the marrow cells from aplastic patieints to grow BFU-E in vitro even in the presence of a large dose of erythropoietin. This lack of BFU-E colony growth may play an important role in the mechanism of the erythropoietic deficiency in aplastic anemia.", "contents": "Studies on hematopoietic stem cells: XI. Lack of erythroid burst-forming units (BFU-E) in patients with aplastic anemia. The marrow concentration of erythropoietic precursors was examined in normal donors and patients with idiopathic aplastic anemia using a plasma clot culture system. On time course observations the heterogeneity of human erythroid precursors assayable in culture was demonstrated. To evaluate human erythropoiesis in vitro, the benzidine-positive colonies were divided into three groups: small colony, containing 8-50 cells; medium-sized colony, containing 50-500 cells; and large colony, containing more than 500 cells. The majority of the large colonies assumed the morphology of erythropietic bursts (BFU-E) consisted of several subcolonies. The small colonies were counted as CFU-E1, the medium-sized as CFU-E2, and the large as BFU-E to evaluate the erythroid precursor cell compartment in aplastic anemia. The marrow concentration of CFU-E1 and CFU-E2 was shown to be quantitatively diminished in aplastic anemia. In addition, there was no ability of the marrow cells from aplastic patieints to grow BFU-E in vitro even in the presence of a large dose of erythropoietin. This lack of BFU-E colony growth may play an important role in the mechanism of the erythropoietic deficiency in aplastic anemia.", "PMID": 453193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10451", "title": "Heterogeneity of hemoglobin gamma chains in normal newborns and in cases of alpha and beta thalassemia.", "content": "The ratio of Ggamma to Agamma was studied in 13 normal healthy newborns and in eight neonates with hydrops fetalis due to homozygous alpha-thalassemia. The findings in the normal healthy newborns agreed with those of earlier reports. In homozygous alpha-thalassemia the Ggamma and Agamma ratio appeared generally lower than in healthy control newborns, but one of the hydrops fetalis cases had a very high Ggamma value. In all 13 normal healthy newborns, in 8 patients with homozygous alpha-thalassemia, and in 4 patients with homozygous beta-thalassemia, Tgamma chains with threonine at position 75 were detected in addition Igamma chains with isoleucine at position 75. In homozygous alpha-thalassemia, the Tgamma-to-Igamma ratio seemed lower and in homozygous beta-thalassemia higher than in normal newborns.", "contents": "Heterogeneity of hemoglobin gamma chains in normal newborns and in cases of alpha and beta thalassemia. The ratio of Ggamma to Agamma was studied in 13 normal healthy newborns and in eight neonates with hydrops fetalis due to homozygous alpha-thalassemia. The findings in the normal healthy newborns agreed with those of earlier reports. In homozygous alpha-thalassemia the Ggamma and Agamma ratio appeared generally lower than in healthy control newborns, but one of the hydrops fetalis cases had a very high Ggamma value. In all 13 normal healthy newborns, in 8 patients with homozygous alpha-thalassemia, and in 4 patients with homozygous beta-thalassemia, Tgamma chains with threonine at position 75 were detected in addition Igamma chains with isoleucine at position 75. In homozygous alpha-thalassemia, the Tgamma-to-Igamma ratio seemed lower and in homozygous beta-thalassemia higher than in normal newborns.", "PMID": 453194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10452", "title": "Giant platelet granules in a child with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome.", "content": "Previous ultrastructural investigation have not identified abnormal lysosomes in platelets obtained from humans or animals with the Chediak-Higashi Syndrome. We report here a patient whose megakaryocytes and platelets were found to contain giant granules when viewed by light and electron microscopy. The granules measured up to 1.5 micrometer in diameter, contained either homogeneous or heterogeneous material, were acid phosphatase positive, and were present in approximately 30% of bone marrow megakaryocytes and 5% of circulating platelets. A decrease was observed in serotonin containing dense granules, serotonin uptake and serotonin release as reported previously. Microtubules in platelets and megakaryocytes were intact and no other morphologic abnormalities were identified. No clinical evidence of bleeding was observed in this patient and platelet counts have been normal. The lack of giant platelet lysosomes in other reported cases of Chediak-Higashi Syndrome attests to significant heterogeneity in this disease with a spectrum of clinical and laboratory findings.", "contents": "Giant platelet granules in a child with the Chediak-Higashi syndrome. Previous ultrastructural investigation have not identified abnormal lysosomes in platelets obtained from humans or animals with the Chediak-Higashi Syndrome. We report here a patient whose megakaryocytes and platelets were found to contain giant granules when viewed by light and electron microscopy. The granules measured up to 1.5 micrometer in diameter, contained either homogeneous or heterogeneous material, were acid phosphatase positive, and were present in approximately 30% of bone marrow megakaryocytes and 5% of circulating platelets. A decrease was observed in serotonin containing dense granules, serotonin uptake and serotonin release as reported previously. Microtubules in platelets and megakaryocytes were intact and no other morphologic abnormalities were identified. No clinical evidence of bleeding was observed in this patient and platelet counts have been normal. The lack of giant platelet lysosomes in other reported cases of Chediak-Higashi Syndrome attests to significant heterogeneity in this disease with a spectrum of clinical and laboratory findings.", "PMID": 453195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10453", "title": "Acute leukemia and preleukemia in eight males in a family: an X-linked disorder?", "content": "Eight males in a family died of acute leukemia or a potentially preleukemic blood disease. Three patients were descendants of a man through his first wife, and the other five through his second wife. The pattern of disease in the family suggests X-linked inheritance through the two wives, although other mechanisms cannot be excluded. No detectable action of environmental leukemogens was observed in this family disorder.", "contents": "Acute leukemia and preleukemia in eight males in a family: an X-linked disorder? Eight males in a family died of acute leukemia or a potentially preleukemic blood disease. Three patients were descendants of a man through his first wife, and the other five through his second wife. The pattern of disease in the family suggests X-linked inheritance through the two wives, although other mechanisms cannot be excluded. No detectable action of environmental leukemogens was observed in this family disorder.", "PMID": 453196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10454", "title": "Heritable fragile sites on human chromosomes II. Distribution, phenotypic effects, and cytogenetics.", "content": "Individuals and families have been documented in which there are a number of fragile sites on chromosomes. These include sites at 2q11, 10q23, 11q13, 16p124, 16q22, 20p11, and Xq27 or 28. Fragile sites reported in the literature are compiled. The cytogenetics of the sites is discussed. The phenotypic effects of the sites are considered, and it is speculated that homozygosity of the autosomal sites might be deleterious as is hemizygosity of the site on Xq. These sites are used in the previous report which documents the effect of tissue medium components on their expression.", "contents": "Heritable fragile sites on human chromosomes II. Distribution, phenotypic effects, and cytogenetics. Individuals and families have been documented in which there are a number of fragile sites on chromosomes. These include sites at 2q11, 10q23, 11q13, 16p124, 16q22, 20p11, and Xq27 or 28. Fragile sites reported in the literature are compiled. The cytogenetics of the sites is discussed. The phenotypic effects of the sites are considered, and it is speculated that homozygosity of the autosomal sites might be deleterious as is hemizygosity of the site on Xq. These sites are used in the previous report which documents the effect of tissue medium components on their expression.", "PMID": 453198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10455", "title": "Chromosomal mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell cultures.", "content": "Over the past 6 years, using in situ processing methods, we have identified 32 cases of mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell cultures prepared from 1,100 samples. Two of these (45,X/46,XX and 46,XX/47,XX, + 21) were called true mosaics because multiple colonies demonstrated the same abnormal chromosome complement, and on subsequent evaluation of the newborn blood or fetal tissues, mosaicism was confirmed. Of the remaining cases, 29 were designated as pseudomosaics because only single or partial colonies exhibited an aberrant chromosome complement, 12 having a trisomy 2 line. In the final case, a double trisomy was demonstrated in only one of eight colonies in the first culture, but in the culture from a repeat sample an additional two colonies showed the same double trisomy. Since no abnormal cells were observed in infant blood, it was postulated that the mosaicism may only have been present in the extraembryonic tissues. It is our conviction that the use of these cloning methods should diminish the danger of misdiagnosis in genetic amniocentesis.", "contents": "Chromosomal mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell cultures. Over the past 6 years, using in situ processing methods, we have identified 32 cases of mosaicism in amniotic fluid cell cultures prepared from 1,100 samples. Two of these (45,X/46,XX and 46,XX/47,XX, + 21) were called true mosaics because multiple colonies demonstrated the same abnormal chromosome complement, and on subsequent evaluation of the newborn blood or fetal tissues, mosaicism was confirmed. Of the remaining cases, 29 were designated as pseudomosaics because only single or partial colonies exhibited an aberrant chromosome complement, 12 having a trisomy 2 line. In the final case, a double trisomy was demonstrated in only one of eight colonies in the first culture, but in the culture from a repeat sample an additional two colonies showed the same double trisomy. Since no abnormal cells were observed in infant blood, it was postulated that the mosaicism may only have been present in the extraembryonic tissues. It is our conviction that the use of these cloning methods should diminish the danger of misdiagnosis in genetic amniocentesis.", "PMID": 453199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10456", "title": "Genetic drift in sex-linked lethal disorders.", "content": "A model is considered to calculate effects of genetic drift on the expected proportion of new mutants amongst males affected by a sex-linked recessive lethal. We show how to relate the number of cases of the disorder in males to the expected deviations from the deterministic value of the proportion of new mutants. For small values of alpha (= 3N mu), where N is the size of the female population, and mu is the mutation rate from wild-type to lethal allele, the standard deviation (SD) of the proportion of new mutants is large. However, if alpha more than 50, the potential effect of genetic drift is probably less important than the many other sources of error and bias.", "contents": "Genetic drift in sex-linked lethal disorders. A model is considered to calculate effects of genetic drift on the expected proportion of new mutants amongst males affected by a sex-linked recessive lethal. We show how to relate the number of cases of the disorder in males to the expected deviations from the deterministic value of the proportion of new mutants. For small values of alpha (= 3N mu), where N is the size of the female population, and mu is the mutation rate from wild-type to lethal allele, the standard deviation (SD) of the proportion of new mutants is large. However, if alpha more than 50, the potential effect of genetic drift is probably less important than the many other sources of error and bias.", "PMID": 453200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10457", "title": "Maximum likelihood estimation by counting methods under polygenic and mixed models in human pedigrees.", "content": "For pedigree data, the maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters in polygenic and mixed models are derived analytically although not in closed form but in terms of \"counting equations\" allowing an iterative solution. Likelihood computations, tests of significance, and tests of goodness of fit are presented. Accelerating the (linear) rate of convergence by a very simple method is demonstrated.", "contents": "Maximum likelihood estimation by counting methods under polygenic and mixed models in human pedigrees. For pedigree data, the maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters in polygenic and mixed models are derived analytically although not in closed form but in terms of \"counting equations\" allowing an iterative solution. Likelihood computations, tests of significance, and tests of goodness of fit are presented. Accelerating the (linear) rate of convergence by a very simple method is demonstrated.", "PMID": 453201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10458", "title": "Multifactorial inheritance with cultural transmission and assortative mating. II. a general model of combined polygenic and cultural inheritance.", "content": "A general linear model of combined polygenic-cultural inheritance is described. The model allows for phenotypic assortative mating, common environment, maternal and paternal effects, and genic-cultural correlation. General formulae for phenotypic correlation between family members in extended pedigrees are given for both primary and secondary assortative mating. A FORTRAN program BETA, available upon request, is used to provide maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters from reported correlations. American data about IQ and Burks' culture index are analyzed. Both cultural and genetic components of phenotypic variance are observed to make significant and substantial contributions to familial resemblance in IQ. The correlation between the environments of DZ twins is found to equal that of singleton sibs, not that of MZ twins. Burks' culture index is found to be an imperfect measure of midparent IQ rather than an index of home environment as previously assumed. Conditions under which the parameters of the model may be uniquely and precisely estimated are discussed. Interpretation of variance components in the presence of assortative mating and genic-cultural covariance is reviewed. A conservative, but robust, approach to the use of environmental indices is described.", "contents": "Multifactorial inheritance with cultural transmission and assortative mating. II. a general model of combined polygenic and cultural inheritance. A general linear model of combined polygenic-cultural inheritance is described. The model allows for phenotypic assortative mating, common environment, maternal and paternal effects, and genic-cultural correlation. General formulae for phenotypic correlation between family members in extended pedigrees are given for both primary and secondary assortative mating. A FORTRAN program BETA, available upon request, is used to provide maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters from reported correlations. American data about IQ and Burks' culture index are analyzed. Both cultural and genetic components of phenotypic variance are observed to make significant and substantial contributions to familial resemblance in IQ. The correlation between the environments of DZ twins is found to equal that of singleton sibs, not that of MZ twins. Burks' culture index is found to be an imperfect measure of midparent IQ rather than an index of home environment as previously assumed. Conditions under which the parameters of the model may be uniquely and precisely estimated are discussed. Interpretation of variance components in the presence of assortative mating and genic-cultural covariance is reviewed. A conservative, but robust, approach to the use of environmental indices is described.", "PMID": 453202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10459", "title": "Major gene analysis of quantitative variation in blood clotting factor X levels.", "content": "Blood clotting factor ten (X) levels measured in 149 people in six pedigrees were found to fit a mixture of normal distributions. No environmental effect could be identified to account for the wide separation in the means of these distributions. Pedigree analysis reveals that the data are compatible with an autosomal, one locus, two allele genetic model affecting factor X activity. Goodness of fit tests suggest that the allele for low levels of factor X is dominant, though on the basis of likelihood tests, mean heterozygote levels are different from mean homozygote levels. A similar bimodal distribution for factor X levels observed previously in a separate sample of 207 young men, indicated that the proposed dominant allele has an estimated population gene frequency of .53. The earlier estimate is remarkably similar to that obtained with the currently ascertained pedigrees. The postulated major gene accounts for more than half of the variation in factor X levels.", "contents": "Major gene analysis of quantitative variation in blood clotting factor X levels. Blood clotting factor ten (X) levels measured in 149 people in six pedigrees were found to fit a mixture of normal distributions. No environmental effect could be identified to account for the wide separation in the means of these distributions. Pedigree analysis reveals that the data are compatible with an autosomal, one locus, two allele genetic model affecting factor X activity. Goodness of fit tests suggest that the allele for low levels of factor X is dominant, though on the basis of likelihood tests, mean heterozygote levels are different from mean homozygote levels. A similar bimodal distribution for factor X levels observed previously in a separate sample of 207 young men, indicated that the proposed dominant allele has an estimated population gene frequency of .53. The earlier estimate is remarkably similar to that obtained with the currently ascertained pedigrees. The postulated major gene accounts for more than half of the variation in factor X levels.", "PMID": 453203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10460", "title": "Familial X-linked mental retardation, verbal disability, and marker X chromosomes.", "content": "Cytogenetic and verbal studies were done on members of four families with non-specific X-linked mental retardation. Cytogenetic analysis was done using media 199 and GTG-banding; one family had a marker X with a fragile site in band Xq27 or 28. Preliminary results indicate variation of culture conditions can effect the frequency of the marker X. A generalized language disability was found which tended to concentrate in the areas of auditory reception, auditory sequential memory, visual closure and grammatic closure. Articulation errors involved the same sounds which are late in normal development and occur most frequently in both the general population and a Down syndrome population.", "contents": "Familial X-linked mental retardation, verbal disability, and marker X chromosomes. Cytogenetic and verbal studies were done on members of four families with non-specific X-linked mental retardation. Cytogenetic analysis was done using media 199 and GTG-banding; one family had a marker X with a fragile site in band Xq27 or 28. Preliminary results indicate variation of culture conditions can effect the frequency of the marker X. A generalized language disability was found which tended to concentrate in the areas of auditory reception, auditory sequential memory, visual closure and grammatic closure. Articulation errors involved the same sounds which are late in normal development and occur most frequently in both the general population and a Down syndrome population.", "PMID": 453204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10461", "title": "Assuring the quality of intravenous admixture programs.", "content": "Several aspects of quality assurance (QA) methods in i.v. admixture programs are discussed, and a basic framework for developing QA programs for admixture services is presented. The objective of QA is to insure that admixture products: (1) are therapeutically and pharmaceutically appropriate to the patient; (2) are free from microbial and pyrogenic contaminants; (3) are free from undesirable levels of particulate or toxic contaminants; (4) contain drugs in correct amounts; and (5) are labeled, stored and distributed under principles of good drug control. Three types of QA criteria bases which may be used as indicators of quality are discussed (resources, facilities and organization; required procedures; end-products or results). Because end-product monitoring has certain limitations in the admixture setting, QA must rely heavily on procedure-centered review methods. General guidelines for developing QA programs are outlined. Adherence to procedure is the key to assuring the quality of admixture products. In developing a QA program, the highest priority should be given to the education and training of admixture personnel, particularly with respect to aseptic technique and pharmaceutical calculations.", "contents": "Assuring the quality of intravenous admixture programs. Several aspects of quality assurance (QA) methods in i.v. admixture programs are discussed, and a basic framework for developing QA programs for admixture services is presented. The objective of QA is to insure that admixture products: (1) are therapeutically and pharmaceutically appropriate to the patient; (2) are free from microbial and pyrogenic contaminants; (3) are free from undesirable levels of particulate or toxic contaminants; (4) contain drugs in correct amounts; and (5) are labeled, stored and distributed under principles of good drug control. Three types of QA criteria bases which may be used as indicators of quality are discussed (resources, facilities and organization; required procedures; end-products or results). Because end-product monitoring has certain limitations in the admixture setting, QA must rely heavily on procedure-centered review methods. General guidelines for developing QA programs are outlined. Adherence to procedure is the key to assuring the quality of admixture products. In developing a QA program, the highest priority should be given to the education and training of admixture personnel, particularly with respect to aseptic technique and pharmaceutical calculations.", "PMID": 453213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10462", "title": "Pharmacist management of anticoagulant therapy in ambulant patients.", "content": "The development, operation, patient management protocol and teaching activities of a pharmacist-managed anticoagulant clinic for ambulatory patients are described. Pharmaceutical services provided in the ambulatory clinic include (1) contribution to the problem-oriented medical record; (2) patient education; (3) therapeutic response monitoring; (4) drug information; (5) drug distribution; and (6) inservice education. A pharmacist completes a medication history on initial visit; assesses and adjusts anticoagulant therapy based on physical examination, detection of adverse drug reactions and laboratory test results; schedules return clinic visits; provides patient education; and records, in the patient's medical record, the assessment and results of treatment. Treatment adjustments made by the pharmacist are based on an oral anticoagulant protocol and reviewed by the clinic cardiologist. The clinic serves as a teaching site for undergraduate pharmacy students, Doctor of Pharmacy students and hospital pharmacy residents. The anticoagulant clinic gives the pharmacist a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive pharmaceutical services, to establish effective, long-term professional relationships with ambulant patients and their families, and to foster interdisciplinary health team activities.", "contents": "Pharmacist management of anticoagulant therapy in ambulant patients. The development, operation, patient management protocol and teaching activities of a pharmacist-managed anticoagulant clinic for ambulatory patients are described. Pharmaceutical services provided in the ambulatory clinic include (1) contribution to the problem-oriented medical record; (2) patient education; (3) therapeutic response monitoring; (4) drug information; (5) drug distribution; and (6) inservice education. A pharmacist completes a medication history on initial visit; assesses and adjusts anticoagulant therapy based on physical examination, detection of adverse drug reactions and laboratory test results; schedules return clinic visits; provides patient education; and records, in the patient's medical record, the assessment and results of treatment. Treatment adjustments made by the pharmacist are based on an oral anticoagulant protocol and reviewed by the clinic cardiologist. The clinic serves as a teaching site for undergraduate pharmacy students, Doctor of Pharmacy students and hospital pharmacy residents. The anticoagulant clinic gives the pharmacist a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive pharmaceutical services, to establish effective, long-term professional relationships with ambulant patients and their families, and to foster interdisciplinary health team activities.", "PMID": 453215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10463", "title": "Hospital pharmacy purchases and inventories.", "content": "The results of the hospital pharmacy purchases and inventories portion of a 1978 national mail survey of pharmaceutical services in short-term hospitals are reported. A sample of 815 hospitals was selected randomly from among 5,200 U.S. short-term hospitals that employ a pharmacist on at least a part-time basis. The inventory question had a response rate of 67.7%, the purchasing question, 62.2%; inventory turnover was calculated based on a response rate of 60.5% to both questions. Inventories were inordinately large in small hospitals. Inventory turnover rates, which increased with hospital size, were somewhat less than optimal in small and medium hospitals. The Pacific region's inventory/bed and purchases/bed values were substantially greater than those of any other region. Large hospitals had a 20% higher annual purchases/bed figure than the smaller hospitals, perhaps because of their relatively greater volume of outpatient services. Based on their respective demand (as measured by adjusted inpatient days), the drug purchases of the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions were less than expected, while the Mountain and Pacific regions' drug purchases were much greater than expected. Total 1979 purchases of pharmaceuticals and related supplies by pharmacies in all short-term hospitals are estimated to reach $2,215 to $2,772 million.", "contents": "Hospital pharmacy purchases and inventories. The results of the hospital pharmacy purchases and inventories portion of a 1978 national mail survey of pharmaceutical services in short-term hospitals are reported. A sample of 815 hospitals was selected randomly from among 5,200 U.S. short-term hospitals that employ a pharmacist on at least a part-time basis. The inventory question had a response rate of 67.7%, the purchasing question, 62.2%; inventory turnover was calculated based on a response rate of 60.5% to both questions. Inventories were inordinately large in small hospitals. Inventory turnover rates, which increased with hospital size, were somewhat less than optimal in small and medium hospitals. The Pacific region's inventory/bed and purchases/bed values were substantially greater than those of any other region. Large hospitals had a 20% higher annual purchases/bed figure than the smaller hospitals, perhaps because of their relatively greater volume of outpatient services. Based on their respective demand (as measured by adjusted inpatient days), the drug purchases of the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions were less than expected, while the Mountain and Pacific regions' drug purchases were much greater than expected. Total 1979 purchases of pharmaceuticals and related supplies by pharmacies in all short-term hospitals are estimated to reach $2,215 to $2,772 million.", "PMID": 453216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10464", "title": "Transient monoclonal proteins in drug hypersensitivity reactions.", "content": "Two patients were studied in whom monoclonal (M) immunoglobulin G (IgG) proteins developed during the course of a serum sickness-like drug hypersensitivity reaction to cloxacillin (Orbenin) and sodium cephalothin (Keflin), respectively. The clinical evidence and time sequence of events support this association. In both patients there was evidence of an active antibody response to the given antibiotic and to the benzylpenicilloyl group as well. However, protein fractions obtained by agar gel preparative electrophoresis failed to show a higher antibody concentration where the M peak was located, and absorption experiments performed with penicillin G-, cloxacillin- and cephalothin-coated red cells failed to absorb these M proteins. These transient paraproteins can be seen in association with antibiotic(s) administration in the context of a hypersensitivity reaction and do not apparently represent a specific immune response.", "contents": "Transient monoclonal proteins in drug hypersensitivity reactions. Two patients were studied in whom monoclonal (M) immunoglobulin G (IgG) proteins developed during the course of a serum sickness-like drug hypersensitivity reaction to cloxacillin (Orbenin) and sodium cephalothin (Keflin), respectively. The clinical evidence and time sequence of events support this association. In both patients there was evidence of an active antibody response to the given antibiotic and to the benzylpenicilloyl group as well. However, protein fractions obtained by agar gel preparative electrophoresis failed to show a higher antibody concentration where the M peak was located, and absorption experiments performed with penicillin G-, cloxacillin- and cephalothin-coated red cells failed to absorb these M proteins. These transient paraproteins can be seen in association with antibiotic(s) administration in the context of a hypersensitivity reaction and do not apparently represent a specific immune response.", "PMID": 453221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10465", "title": "Macrocytic anemia, thrombocytosis and nonlobulated megakaryocytes: the 5q-syndrome, a distinct entity.", "content": "The clinical, hematologic and histologic characteristics of six patients with refractory anemia with deletion of the long arm of chromosome No. 5 are described. These patients had a distinct hematologic picture with macrocytic anemia of mild to moderate severity, normal to low leukocyte count and increased platelet count. The long arm of chromosome No. 5 was deleted in the majority of bone marrow metaphases. The main cause of anemia was underproduction with decreased erythroid precursors in the bone marrow and no increase in peripheral blood reticulocytes. Two of five patients responded transiently to the administration of androgens. In vitro evaluation of the bone marrow growth pattern in semisolid agar culture system was performed in three patients and was found to be normal and distinct from that in patients with preleukemia. In a follow up of up to five years, no patient had changed hematologically and in none had leukemia developed. The 5q-syndrome is a distinct hematologic entity and probably more common than hitherto realized. This diagnosis may have therapeutic and prognostic implications.", "contents": "Macrocytic anemia, thrombocytosis and nonlobulated megakaryocytes: the 5q-syndrome, a distinct entity. The clinical, hematologic and histologic characteristics of six patients with refractory anemia with deletion of the long arm of chromosome No. 5 are described. These patients had a distinct hematologic picture with macrocytic anemia of mild to moderate severity, normal to low leukocyte count and increased platelet count. The long arm of chromosome No. 5 was deleted in the majority of bone marrow metaphases. The main cause of anemia was underproduction with decreased erythroid precursors in the bone marrow and no increase in peripheral blood reticulocytes. Two of five patients responded transiently to the administration of androgens. In vitro evaluation of the bone marrow growth pattern in semisolid agar culture system was performed in three patients and was found to be normal and distinct from that in patients with preleukemia. In a follow up of up to five years, no patient had changed hematologically and in none had leukemia developed. The 5q-syndrome is a distinct hematologic entity and probably more common than hitherto realized. This diagnosis may have therapeutic and prognostic implications.", "PMID": 453227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10466", "title": "Systolic time intervals in hypothyroidism: end organ function as a reflection of clinical status.", "content": "Systolic time intervals (STI) were determined in 14 hypothyroid patients who did not have congestive heart failure or atrial fibrillation, and who were not taking cardiotropic drugs. Compared to normals, there was a significant decrease in the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and there were significant increases in the pre-ejection period (PEP) and the PEP/LVET ratio. The prolongation of the PEP primarily reflected lengthening of the isovolumic contraction time. Serial recordings during thyroxine therapy in seven patients showed consistent changes in STI toward normal values. These results in hypothyroid patients complement our earlier data in hyperthyroid patients; they indicate that STI's are a sensitive measure of the heart as an end organ over the entire range of thyroid hormonal activity.", "contents": "Systolic time intervals in hypothyroidism: end organ function as a reflection of clinical status. Systolic time intervals (STI) were determined in 14 hypothyroid patients who did not have congestive heart failure or atrial fibrillation, and who were not taking cardiotropic drugs. Compared to normals, there was a significant decrease in the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and there were significant increases in the pre-ejection period (PEP) and the PEP/LVET ratio. The prolongation of the PEP primarily reflected lengthening of the isovolumic contraction time. Serial recordings during thyroxine therapy in seven patients showed consistent changes in STI toward normal values. These results in hypothyroid patients complement our earlier data in hyperthyroid patients; they indicate that STI's are a sensitive measure of the heart as an end organ over the entire range of thyroid hormonal activity.", "PMID": 453231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10467", "title": "The relation between aerobic fecal and oropharyngeal microflora in hospitalized patients.", "content": "The aerobic fecal and oropharyngeal bacterial flora was examined in 75 patients hospitalized, but not given antibiotics; in 70 patients given antibiotics during hospitalization and in 25 nonhospitalized controls. In all subjects, when first examined, normal throat flora were predominant. At the end of 21 days, however, a gram-negative bacilli became predominant in 17 (22.7%) of the Hospital Group and 33 (47.1%) of the Antibiotic Group. Newly appearing genera of gram-negative bacilli in the pharynx were almost always represented those present in the fecal flora. The Hospital Group all had recognizable components of the normal oropharyngeal flora present at 21 days, but 12 (17.1%) of the Antibiotic Group had no demonstrable normal oropharyngeal flora at 21 days. The findings suggest that hospitalization alone can be associated with the appearance of gram-negative bacilli in the oropharynx, and that the intestinal tract is their most likely point of origin.", "contents": "The relation between aerobic fecal and oropharyngeal microflora in hospitalized patients. The aerobic fecal and oropharyngeal bacterial flora was examined in 75 patients hospitalized, but not given antibiotics; in 70 patients given antibiotics during hospitalization and in 25 nonhospitalized controls. In all subjects, when first examined, normal throat flora were predominant. At the end of 21 days, however, a gram-negative bacilli became predominant in 17 (22.7%) of the Hospital Group and 33 (47.1%) of the Antibiotic Group. Newly appearing genera of gram-negative bacilli in the pharynx were almost always represented those present in the fecal flora. The Hospital Group all had recognizable components of the normal oropharyngeal flora present at 21 days, but 12 (17.1%) of the Antibiotic Group had no demonstrable normal oropharyngeal flora at 21 days. The findings suggest that hospitalization alone can be associated with the appearance of gram-negative bacilli in the oropharynx, and that the intestinal tract is their most likely point of origin.", "PMID": 453232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10468", "title": "Endotoxin shock in the beagle dog.", "content": "The hemodynamic and metabolic responses to endotoxemia were assessed in seven splenectomized, chronically instrumented, conscious but lightly sedated beagle dogs. Measurements included: cardiac output (CO), right and left atrial pressures (RAP, LAP), systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures (SAP, PAP), and heart rate (HR). Arterial blood samples were measured for blood gas tensions, pH, lactate, and pyruvate. After a brief control period, 1 mg/kg endotoxin (Difco 026:B6) was given as an intravenous bolus. Two hours later, each animal was treated with low-molecular weight dextran (LMDX), 2 ml/kg/min for 15 minutes. Endotoxin initially produced a precipitate decline in CO, HR, RAP, LAP, and SAP with concurrent pulmonary hypertension; both pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance increased significantly, then declined to control values as the animal partially recovered. A progressive metabolic acidosis with excess lactate accumulation developed. LMDX produced a significant increase in CO, SAP, PAP, and LAP with a decrease in HR; RAP increased slightly. With hydration, hemodilution was noted along with relief of the metabolic acidosis and the oxygen debt. We conclude (1) neither pulmonary nor systemic vasconstriction persisted in the shocked dog, (2) the response of the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds to endotoxin was qualitatively similar, and (3) oncotic fluid therapy appeared to restore the hemodynamic and metabolic parameters to preshock values.", "contents": "Endotoxin shock in the beagle dog. The hemodynamic and metabolic responses to endotoxemia were assessed in seven splenectomized, chronically instrumented, conscious but lightly sedated beagle dogs. Measurements included: cardiac output (CO), right and left atrial pressures (RAP, LAP), systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures (SAP, PAP), and heart rate (HR). Arterial blood samples were measured for blood gas tensions, pH, lactate, and pyruvate. After a brief control period, 1 mg/kg endotoxin (Difco 026:B6) was given as an intravenous bolus. Two hours later, each animal was treated with low-molecular weight dextran (LMDX), 2 ml/kg/min for 15 minutes. Endotoxin initially produced a precipitate decline in CO, HR, RAP, LAP, and SAP with concurrent pulmonary hypertension; both pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance increased significantly, then declined to control values as the animal partially recovered. A progressive metabolic acidosis with excess lactate accumulation developed. LMDX produced a significant increase in CO, SAP, PAP, and LAP with a decrease in HR; RAP increased slightly. With hydration, hemodilution was noted along with relief of the metabolic acidosis and the oxygen debt. We conclude (1) neither pulmonary nor systemic vasconstriction persisted in the shocked dog, (2) the response of the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds to endotoxin was qualitatively similar, and (3) oncotic fluid therapy appeared to restore the hemodynamic and metabolic parameters to preshock values.", "PMID": 453237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10469", "title": "Severe dysplasia and carcinoma in situ of the vagina.", "content": "Papanicolaou smears for early detection of carcinoma in situ of the cervix has been a well-recognized method of screening patients for over 30 years. The necessity for Papanicolaou smears following hysterectomy, especially for benign disease, has been a controversial subject. Twenty-two cases of carcinoma in situ of the vagina, over a period of 18 years, at the Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, California, are presented. Ninety-five percent of the lesions were first suspected by use of the Papanicolaou smears. Approximately half of previous hysterectomies were performed for benign disease. The various methods of treatment employed and the complications in these patients are discussed.", "contents": "Severe dysplasia and carcinoma in situ of the vagina. Papanicolaou smears for early detection of carcinoma in situ of the cervix has been a well-recognized method of screening patients for over 30 years. The necessity for Papanicolaou smears following hysterectomy, especially for benign disease, has been a controversial subject. Twenty-two cases of carcinoma in situ of the vagina, over a period of 18 years, at the Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, California, are presented. Ninety-five percent of the lesions were first suspected by use of the Papanicolaou smears. Approximately half of previous hysterectomies were performed for benign disease. The various methods of treatment employed and the complications in these patients are discussed.", "PMID": 453238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10470", "title": "Aspects of folate metabolism in lactating women studied after ingestion of 14C-methylfolate.", "content": "Radioactive methylfolate (14C-5CH3H4PteGlu) (10-14 microgram/kg) was fed to four lactating women presenting with breast abscesses necessitating cessation of lactation. The appearance of radiofolate in milk, plasma and urine over the next 24 hours was investigated. In spite of a minimal postabsorption rise of plasma biofolate, plasma radiofolate (including a dialysis-resistant (bound) fraction) increased steadily to 1.26 to 5.11 microgram/l at 24 hours. Urinary radiofolate excretion was considerable. Total milk biofolate rose significantly by 15 to 28 microgram/l, in contrast with a much smaller radiofolate fraction (1.95-3.88 microgram/l) which at 24 hours was comparable with that of plasma. Milk radiofolate included a dialysis-resistant fraction rising to 0.75 to 1.15 microgram/l at 24 hours. On chromatography (Sephadex-DEAE-A50) plasma, urine and milk showed a nonbound radiofolate peak suggestive of 10-CHO.H4PteGlu. This folate may originate predominantly from the apocrine mammary glands. The in vitro labelled radiofolate milk binder could not be identified chromatographically, but it was shown that the in vitro milk binders of PteGlu and 5CH3H4PteGlu could be separated chromatographically.", "contents": "Aspects of folate metabolism in lactating women studied after ingestion of 14C-methylfolate. Radioactive methylfolate (14C-5CH3H4PteGlu) (10-14 microgram/kg) was fed to four lactating women presenting with breast abscesses necessitating cessation of lactation. The appearance of radiofolate in milk, plasma and urine over the next 24 hours was investigated. In spite of a minimal postabsorption rise of plasma biofolate, plasma radiofolate (including a dialysis-resistant (bound) fraction) increased steadily to 1.26 to 5.11 microgram/l at 24 hours. Urinary radiofolate excretion was considerable. Total milk biofolate rose significantly by 15 to 28 microgram/l, in contrast with a much smaller radiofolate fraction (1.95-3.88 microgram/l) which at 24 hours was comparable with that of plasma. Milk radiofolate included a dialysis-resistant fraction rising to 0.75 to 1.15 microgram/l at 24 hours. On chromatography (Sephadex-DEAE-A50) plasma, urine and milk showed a nonbound radiofolate peak suggestive of 10-CHO.H4PteGlu. This folate may originate predominantly from the apocrine mammary glands. The in vitro labelled radiofolate milk binder could not be identified chromatographically, but it was shown that the in vitro milk binders of PteGlu and 5CH3H4PteGlu could be separated chromatographically.", "PMID": 453233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10471", "title": "Does adoption affect subsequent fertility?", "content": "A hypothesis derived from the old wives' tale that adoption increases subsequent fertility was tested by analysis of follow-up data obtained from 895 couples who were \"at risk\" of pregnancy and of adoption after they had registered in the Stanford Infertility Clinic between 1963 and 1977. Of the 767 couples who did not adopt, 329 later conceived; of the 128 who did adopt, 41 later conceived. Simple comparison of the percentages or, indeed, of the life tables suggests reduced fertility after adoption. However, this is probably a spurious effect related to a number of factors which differ between two groups. These differences were controlled in the statistical analysis by methods which take into account the length of time each couple was at risk of either conception or adoption and the presence or absence of explanatory variables. The relative risk of conception estimated by the Cox model was not significantly different from 1 and the Mantel-Haenszel statistic (m = 0.208) indicates no significant difference in subsequent conception rates between adoptive and not-adoptive couples. The same methods were used to control for seven covariates, including age and duration of infertility, which could affect conception rates. In each instance, the estimate of relative risk of conception for adoptive versus not-adoptive couples was not significantly different from 1. Therefore, our data do not support the hypothesis that adoption affects subsequent fertility.", "contents": "Does adoption affect subsequent fertility? A hypothesis derived from the old wives' tale that adoption increases subsequent fertility was tested by analysis of follow-up data obtained from 895 couples who were \"at risk\" of pregnancy and of adoption after they had registered in the Stanford Infertility Clinic between 1963 and 1977. Of the 767 couples who did not adopt, 329 later conceived; of the 128 who did adopt, 41 later conceived. Simple comparison of the percentages or, indeed, of the life tables suggests reduced fertility after adoption. However, this is probably a spurious effect related to a number of factors which differ between two groups. These differences were controlled in the statistical analysis by methods which take into account the length of time each couple was at risk of either conception or adoption and the presence or absence of explanatory variables. The relative risk of conception estimated by the Cox model was not significantly different from 1 and the Mantel-Haenszel statistic (m = 0.208) indicates no significant difference in subsequent conception rates between adoptive and not-adoptive couples. The same methods were used to control for seven covariates, including age and duration of infertility, which could affect conception rates. In each instance, the estimate of relative risk of conception for adoptive versus not-adoptive couples was not significantly different from 1. Therefore, our data do not support the hypothesis that adoption affects subsequent fertility.", "PMID": 453239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10472", "title": "Bilateral internal iliac artery ligation in cervical pregnancy: conservation of reproductive function.", "content": "Like other forms of ectopic gestation, cervical pregnancy is a serious complication with potentially life-threatening consequences. Excessive bleeding almost invariably follows an attempt to evacuate this rare ectopic pregnancy. In most reported cases, hysterectomy has been required to control the severe hemorrhage. This paper reports for the first time the successful conservative management of cervical pregnancy in two patients by bilateral internal iliac artery ligation alone. Early recognition of the cervical pregnancy and prompt internal iliac artery ligation are stressed.", "contents": "Bilateral internal iliac artery ligation in cervical pregnancy: conservation of reproductive function. Like other forms of ectopic gestation, cervical pregnancy is a serious complication with potentially life-threatening consequences. Excessive bleeding almost invariably follows an attempt to evacuate this rare ectopic pregnancy. In most reported cases, hysterectomy has been required to control the severe hemorrhage. This paper reports for the first time the successful conservative management of cervical pregnancy in two patients by bilateral internal iliac artery ligation alone. Early recognition of the cervical pregnancy and prompt internal iliac artery ligation are stressed.", "PMID": 453240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10473", "title": "Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure in alloxan diabetes.", "content": "The effect of a chronic glucose osmotic diuresis on electrolyte homeostasis was evaluated in alloxan diabetic rats with urine volumes greater than 150 ml/day and glycosuria of 4 to 10 gm/day. Results were compared with control rats for periods up to 84 days. Sodium and potassium intake and urinary losses were significantly higher in diabetic animals throughout the study periods. Negative Na balance, however, persisted for only four days, and negative K balance for only 18 days. Blood volumes were elevated probably secondary to the osmotic effect of hyperglycemia (serum glucose greater than 600 mg %). Plasma renin activity decreased progressively, in part because of an early decrease in renin substrate at a time when renin concentration was normal. Despite hyperkalemia, mean plasma aldosterone was not increased compared with that in control rats, suggesting diabetic rats had relative hypoaldosteronism. Although three diabetic rats became hypertensive, no significant difference in mean blood pressure was observed between the groups. The results suggest that diabetic rats have losses of Na and K early in their diabetes, following which mechanisms to conserve Na and K are activated preventing further electrolyte depletion despite continuation of the osmotic diuresis. Decreased renin activity with inadequate stimulation of aldosterone would contribute to K conservation. Maintenance of Na balance must be explained by increased Na intake and other renal Na conserving mechanisms.", "contents": "Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure in alloxan diabetes. The effect of a chronic glucose osmotic diuresis on electrolyte homeostasis was evaluated in alloxan diabetic rats with urine volumes greater than 150 ml/day and glycosuria of 4 to 10 gm/day. Results were compared with control rats for periods up to 84 days. Sodium and potassium intake and urinary losses were significantly higher in diabetic animals throughout the study periods. Negative Na balance, however, persisted for only four days, and negative K balance for only 18 days. Blood volumes were elevated probably secondary to the osmotic effect of hyperglycemia (serum glucose greater than 600 mg %). Plasma renin activity decreased progressively, in part because of an early decrease in renin substrate at a time when renin concentration was normal. Despite hyperkalemia, mean plasma aldosterone was not increased compared with that in control rats, suggesting diabetic rats had relative hypoaldosteronism. Although three diabetic rats became hypertensive, no significant difference in mean blood pressure was observed between the groups. The results suggest that diabetic rats have losses of Na and K early in their diabetes, following which mechanisms to conserve Na and K are activated preventing further electrolyte depletion despite continuation of the osmotic diuresis. Decreased renin activity with inadequate stimulation of aldosterone would contribute to K conservation. Maintenance of Na balance must be explained by increased Na intake and other renal Na conserving mechanisms.", "PMID": 453234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10474", "title": "Vasa previa.", "content": "An active obstetric service can expect to have one perinatal death each year due to vasa previa. Unfortunately, little has been done to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this condition, which presents no risk to the mother but is often fatal to the fetus. The various clinical pictures which can be associated with vasa previa are presented, along with a discussion of the techniques readily available for making the diagnosis: palpation and visualization, amnioscopy, fetal heart monitoring, and various tests for the presence of fetal hemoglobin.", "contents": "Vasa previa. An active obstetric service can expect to have one perinatal death each year due to vasa previa. Unfortunately, little has been done to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this condition, which presents no risk to the mother but is often fatal to the fetus. The various clinical pictures which can be associated with vasa previa are presented, along with a discussion of the techniques readily available for making the diagnosis: palpation and visualization, amnioscopy, fetal heart monitoring, and various tests for the presence of fetal hemoglobin.", "PMID": 453241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10475", "title": "Cephradine in the treatment of infective endocarditis.", "content": "Ten patients with a mean age of 34.1 years with infective endocarditis (55% of cases due to Staphylococcus aureus) were treated with cephradine. The peak serum levels of cephradine (8-42 microgram/ml) were 3- to 17-fold higher than the minimum inhibitory concentrations of cephradine against pathogenic strains of S aureus (1.2-4 microgram/ml). Patients treated with cephradine became afebrile in 2 to 13 days of therapy, and their white blood cell count returned to a normal level in 3 to 30 days. Cephradine therapy was well tolerated without any incidence of phlebitis. The drug could be administered by three different routes. Cephradine is a useful cephalosporin for treatment of nonenterococcal gram-positive endocarditis in young heroin addicts.", "contents": "Cephradine in the treatment of infective endocarditis. Ten patients with a mean age of 34.1 years with infective endocarditis (55% of cases due to Staphylococcus aureus) were treated with cephradine. The peak serum levels of cephradine (8-42 microgram/ml) were 3- to 17-fold higher than the minimum inhibitory concentrations of cephradine against pathogenic strains of S aureus (1.2-4 microgram/ml). Patients treated with cephradine became afebrile in 2 to 13 days of therapy, and their white blood cell count returned to a normal level in 3 to 30 days. Cephradine therapy was well tolerated without any incidence of phlebitis. The drug could be administered by three different routes. Cephradine is a useful cephalosporin for treatment of nonenterococcal gram-positive endocarditis in young heroin addicts.", "PMID": 453235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10476", "title": "Cholelithiasis in sickle cell anemia: a case for elective cholecystectomy.", "content": "Ten patients with sickle cell anemia over the age of 10 who had cholecystectomy are reported. All had symptomatic cholecystitis; three had biliary tract obstruction. Transfusions were given preoperatively and with attention to oxygenation and fluid and electrolyte balance. There were few complications, none serious. Based upon the frequency of gallstones over the age of 10, the likelihood of symptoms or serious complications and the apparent ease with which the properly prepared sickle cell patient comes through surgery, we recommend routine cholecystograms in all adolescent and adult sickle cell anemia patients with elective cholecystectomy for those who have stones.", "contents": "Cholelithiasis in sickle cell anemia: a case for elective cholecystectomy. Ten patients with sickle cell anemia over the age of 10 who had cholecystectomy are reported. All had symptomatic cholecystitis; three had biliary tract obstruction. Transfusions were given preoperatively and with attention to oxygenation and fluid and electrolyte balance. There were few complications, none serious. Based upon the frequency of gallstones over the age of 10, the likelihood of symptoms or serious complications and the apparent ease with which the properly prepared sickle cell patient comes through surgery, we recommend routine cholecystograms in all adolescent and adult sickle cell anemia patients with elective cholecystectomy for those who have stones.", "PMID": 453236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10477", "title": "Pregnancy complicated by diabetes mellitus in private practice: a review of ten years.", "content": "Two hundred private diabetic patients delivered of their infants (202) in a private hospital were evaluated for a 10 year study period (1968 to 1977). There were no maternal deaths. An 88% overall survival rate of viable infants compared favorably with that of other reported series. Analysis of each of the 10 years demonstrated marked changes in management and consequent changes in fetal survival, morbidity, and mortality rates. No neonatal deaths occurred during the last 3 years of the study period and the mortality rate in viable infants was 6.8%. There has been no significant temporal change in the incidence of toxemia or hydramnios. Fifteen stillbirths and ten neonatal deaths were analyzed to identify significant factors or parameters. Attention is directed to sex ratios (male:female) of 3:1 for stillbirths and 3:2 for infants affected with respiratory distress syndrome. Conservative use of accessory testing and antepartum hospitalization was obvious. The question of the necessity for expensive and intensive regimented institutional management is addressed. A minimum management regimen is proposed to be used in conjunction with the private obstetrician's clinical judgment and expertise.", "contents": "Pregnancy complicated by diabetes mellitus in private practice: a review of ten years. Two hundred private diabetic patients delivered of their infants (202) in a private hospital were evaluated for a 10 year study period (1968 to 1977). There were no maternal deaths. An 88% overall survival rate of viable infants compared favorably with that of other reported series. Analysis of each of the 10 years demonstrated marked changes in management and consequent changes in fetal survival, morbidity, and mortality rates. No neonatal deaths occurred during the last 3 years of the study period and the mortality rate in viable infants was 6.8%. There has been no significant temporal change in the incidence of toxemia or hydramnios. Fifteen stillbirths and ten neonatal deaths were analyzed to identify significant factors or parameters. Attention is directed to sex ratios (male:female) of 3:1 for stillbirths and 3:2 for infants affected with respiratory distress syndrome. Conservative use of accessory testing and antepartum hospitalization was obvious. The question of the necessity for expensive and intensive regimented institutional management is addressed. A minimum management regimen is proposed to be used in conjunction with the private obstetrician's clinical judgment and expertise.", "PMID": 453242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10478", "title": "Urinary tract endometriosis: enigmas in diagnosis and management.", "content": "The diagnosis and management of endometriosis presents several enigmas. This review, of eight patients with endometriosis involving the urinary tract, from three large clinical services in the City of Los Angeles, highlights some very difficult problems. Not only diagnostic errors but also inappropriate conservatism and inadequate surveillance have led to compromised function, resection, and/or destruction of the kidneys, ureters, or bladder. The series indicates those findings which are likely to result in urinary tract destruction and points out those clinical situations in which delays or conservative management must be undertaken only with pressing indications and then only with continued and careful surveillance.", "contents": "Urinary tract endometriosis: enigmas in diagnosis and management. The diagnosis and management of endometriosis presents several enigmas. This review, of eight patients with endometriosis involving the urinary tract, from three large clinical services in the City of Los Angeles, highlights some very difficult problems. Not only diagnostic errors but also inappropriate conservatism and inadequate surveillance have led to compromised function, resection, and/or destruction of the kidneys, ureters, or bladder. The series indicates those findings which are likely to result in urinary tract destruction and points out those clinical situations in which delays or conservative management must be undertaken only with pressing indications and then only with continued and careful surveillance.", "PMID": 453243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10479", "title": "Maternal deaths associated with postpartum vulvar edema.", "content": "Reported are three maternal deaths in four patients who presented with a similar syndrome following a normal antepartum course and normal labor and delivery managed by regional or local anesthesia and midline or proctoepisiotomy. Beginning about the second postpartum day, the patients developed unilateral perineal edema and induration which progressed to generalized vulvar, vaginal, perineal, and gluteal edema and induration. These patients developed marked leukocytosis, fever, and ultimately vascular collapse; three of them died. The one patient who survived had a similar course except for vascular collapse. Unilateral vulvar induration and edema associated with fever and marked leukocytosis are ominous signs. Aggressive treatment should include the use of multiple antibiotic, crystaloid, colloid, and steroid drugs and appropriate monitoring. By this report we hope to bring attention to this rare but lethal syndrome.", "contents": "Maternal deaths associated with postpartum vulvar edema. Reported are three maternal deaths in four patients who presented with a similar syndrome following a normal antepartum course and normal labor and delivery managed by regional or local anesthesia and midline or proctoepisiotomy. Beginning about the second postpartum day, the patients developed unilateral perineal edema and induration which progressed to generalized vulvar, vaginal, perineal, and gluteal edema and induration. These patients developed marked leukocytosis, fever, and ultimately vascular collapse; three of them died. The one patient who survived had a similar course except for vascular collapse. Unilateral vulvar induration and edema associated with fever and marked leukocytosis are ominous signs. Aggressive treatment should include the use of multiple antibiotic, crystaloid, colloid, and steroid drugs and appropriate monitoring. By this report we hope to bring attention to this rare but lethal syndrome.", "PMID": 453244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10480", "title": "A study of endocrine and metabolic variables in postmenopausal women with endometrial carcinoma.", "content": "Although an underlying endocrine-metabolic disorder has been implicated as causally related to the development of endometrial carcinoma, data to support such an association are ambiguous and/or contradictory. In this prospective study of 16 consecutive nonobese postmenopausal women with endometrial carcinoma and 16 cancer-free postmenopausal women matched for age and weight, fasting values for growth hormone (GH), insulin, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) were measured on 3 consecutive days. Intravenous glucose tolerance, pituitary GH release in response to arginine infusion, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia, and insulin secretion in response to arginine infusion and to hyperglycemia were analyzed. Our data show that these endocrine-metabolic profiles were not significantly different between the cancer patients and control subjects, suggesting that the postmenopausal women with endometrial cancer who is not obese exhibits no accountable endocrine or metabolic disorders.", "contents": "A study of endocrine and metabolic variables in postmenopausal women with endometrial carcinoma. Although an underlying endocrine-metabolic disorder has been implicated as causally related to the development of endometrial carcinoma, data to support such an association are ambiguous and/or contradictory. In this prospective study of 16 consecutive nonobese postmenopausal women with endometrial carcinoma and 16 cancer-free postmenopausal women matched for age and weight, fasting values for growth hormone (GH), insulin, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) were measured on 3 consecutive days. Intravenous glucose tolerance, pituitary GH release in response to arginine infusion, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia, and insulin secretion in response to arginine infusion and to hyperglycemia were analyzed. Our data show that these endocrine-metabolic profiles were not significantly different between the cancer patients and control subjects, suggesting that the postmenopausal women with endometrial cancer who is not obese exhibits no accountable endocrine or metabolic disorders.", "PMID": 453245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10481", "title": "Delivery of the tiny newborn.", "content": "Obstetric factors related to the survival of 100 newborn infants weighing between 800 and 1,350 grams were analyzed. Available data suggest that maternal intrapartum antibiotic and steroid administration and delivery by classical cesarean section are associated with increased newborn survival.", "contents": "Delivery of the tiny newborn. Obstetric factors related to the survival of 100 newborn infants weighing between 800 and 1,350 grams were analyzed. Available data suggest that maternal intrapartum antibiotic and steroid administration and delivery by classical cesarean section are associated with increased newborn survival.", "PMID": 453247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10482", "title": "Squamous carcinoma of the vulva: results of treatment, 1938 to 1976.", "content": "Clinical data on 264 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva seen between 1938 and 1976 are reported. Two hundred and four patients were \"eligible\" for 5 year assessment for a 55% survival rate. Patients treated with radical vulvectomy and bilateral lymphadenectomy had a corrected 5 year survival rate of 86% if the lymph nodes failed to show metastatic disease. Twenty-eight percent of the patients treated with lymphadenectomy had lymph node metastasis at the time of surgery. The presence of lymphatic metastasis appeared to be the most significant prognostic factor. The results obtained have led to a degree of individualization in current treatment policies, together with a re-evaluation of the possible role of radiotherapy.", "contents": "Squamous carcinoma of the vulva: results of treatment, 1938 to 1976. Clinical data on 264 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva seen between 1938 and 1976 are reported. Two hundred and four patients were \"eligible\" for 5 year assessment for a 55% survival rate. Patients treated with radical vulvectomy and bilateral lymphadenectomy had a corrected 5 year survival rate of 86% if the lymph nodes failed to show metastatic disease. Twenty-eight percent of the patients treated with lymphadenectomy had lymph node metastasis at the time of surgery. The presence of lymphatic metastasis appeared to be the most significant prognostic factor. The results obtained have led to a degree of individualization in current treatment policies, together with a re-evaluation of the possible role of radiotherapy.", "PMID": 453248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10483", "title": "The value of intravenous urography prior to abdominal hysterectomy for gynecologic disease.", "content": "Negligence and failure to \"test timely\" are the two most common charges in obstetric and gynecologic malpractice suits. Both charges are often made in cases involving urinary tract injury during gynecologic surgery. These injuries occur most commonly during abdominal hysterectomy. This report is a 6 year study of 170 consecutive abdominal hysterectomies to ascertain the value of routine preoperative urography in preventing urinary tract injuries. As a control, 260 consecutive abdominal hysterectomies were performed without preoperative urography. There was one ureteral transection in the control group, but unrecognized urinary tract injuries did not occur in either the study or control group. The risks, costs, and benefits of urography are analyzed.", "contents": "The value of intravenous urography prior to abdominal hysterectomy for gynecologic disease. Negligence and failure to \"test timely\" are the two most common charges in obstetric and gynecologic malpractice suits. Both charges are often made in cases involving urinary tract injury during gynecologic surgery. These injuries occur most commonly during abdominal hysterectomy. This report is a 6 year study of 170 consecutive abdominal hysterectomies to ascertain the value of routine preoperative urography in preventing urinary tract injuries. As a control, 260 consecutive abdominal hysterectomies were performed without preoperative urography. There was one ureteral transection in the control group, but unrecognized urinary tract injuries did not occur in either the study or control group. The risks, costs, and benefits of urography are analyzed.", "PMID": 453249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10484", "title": "Office termination of pregnancy by \"menstrual aspiration\".", "content": "A program of office menstrual aspiration was initiated in our institution in 1972. Since that time 1,443 patients have been admitted into the study. These patients were evaluated by age, marital status, gravidity, repeat pregnancy terminations, complications, and detailed tissue analysis as well as contraception utilized at the time of conception and following counseling after the procedure. A majority of these patients were less than 25 years old and single; 28% had had a previous termination and 51% a previous pregnancy. Pathologic evaluations revealed Arias-Stella reaction in 78%. When these data were compared to those of a similar group of women whose pregnancies were terminated in the hospital by suction curettage, it was found that the office procedure is comparatively safe and should therefore be the therapy of choice.", "contents": "Office termination of pregnancy by \"menstrual aspiration\". A program of office menstrual aspiration was initiated in our institution in 1972. Since that time 1,443 patients have been admitted into the study. These patients were evaluated by age, marital status, gravidity, repeat pregnancy terminations, complications, and detailed tissue analysis as well as contraception utilized at the time of conception and following counseling after the procedure. A majority of these patients were less than 25 years old and single; 28% had had a previous termination and 51% a previous pregnancy. Pathologic evaluations revealed Arias-Stella reaction in 78%. When these data were compared to those of a similar group of women whose pregnancies were terminated in the hospital by suction curettage, it was found that the office procedure is comparatively safe and should therefore be the therapy of choice.", "PMID": 453250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10485", "title": "Pretreatment lymphangiography and operative evaluation in carcinoma of the cervix.", "content": "Ninety-five patients with cervical carcinoma who were not candidates for definitive operation underwent initial lymphatic and 24-hour nodal phase lymphangiography and lymphadenectomy prior to radiation therapy. Operation by a transperitoneal or extraperitoneal approach consisted of bilateral pelvic and periaortic lymphadenectomy, exploratory laparotomy, and intraperitoneal biopsies as indicated by the findings. Radiation therapy was modified to include proved sites of metastases. Intestinal injuries followed transperitoneal operation and radiation therapy but were uncommon in patients in whom exploration was done by the extraperitoneal route. Eighteen patients (19%) had unsuspected metastases to common iliac or periaortic lymph nodes identified at operation. The characteristics of the primary tumor and the interpretation of the lymphangiogram provided an inaccurate basis on which to modify treatment. As further studies confirm the risk of disseminated disease in those patients with metastases to common iliac and the periaortic lymph nodes, future treatment plans might incorporate adjuvant chemotherapy or immunotherapy in addition to extended-field irradiation.", "contents": "Pretreatment lymphangiography and operative evaluation in carcinoma of the cervix. Ninety-five patients with cervical carcinoma who were not candidates for definitive operation underwent initial lymphatic and 24-hour nodal phase lymphangiography and lymphadenectomy prior to radiation therapy. Operation by a transperitoneal or extraperitoneal approach consisted of bilateral pelvic and periaortic lymphadenectomy, exploratory laparotomy, and intraperitoneal biopsies as indicated by the findings. Radiation therapy was modified to include proved sites of metastases. Intestinal injuries followed transperitoneal operation and radiation therapy but were uncommon in patients in whom exploration was done by the extraperitoneal route. Eighteen patients (19%) had unsuspected metastases to common iliac or periaortic lymph nodes identified at operation. The characteristics of the primary tumor and the interpretation of the lymphangiogram provided an inaccurate basis on which to modify treatment. As further studies confirm the risk of disseminated disease in those patients with metastases to common iliac and the periaortic lymph nodes, future treatment plans might incorporate adjuvant chemotherapy or immunotherapy in addition to extended-field irradiation.", "PMID": 453251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10486", "title": "Evaluating student performance in an obstetrics and gynecology clerkship.", "content": "The development of a comprehensive evaluation system for an obstetrics and gynecology clerkship at the Unviersity of Utah is described and the results of two years experience using it are presented. Seven different measurement procedures were developed and used with 111 junior medical students including pre- and post-tests, oral examination, clinical performance ratings by residents, and ratings by faculty on oral and written presentations and participation in tutorial sessions. Learning gains as measured by pre-post test scores were significant at the 0.001 level. Only six of 37 correlations among the evaluation measures were significantly related at the 0.01 level; furthermore, little relationship could be found between measures of student achievement in cognitive as compared to clinical skill areas. The need for multiple sources of information on student performance in clerkships is discussed.", "contents": "Evaluating student performance in an obstetrics and gynecology clerkship. The development of a comprehensive evaluation system for an obstetrics and gynecology clerkship at the Unviersity of Utah is described and the results of two years experience using it are presented. Seven different measurement procedures were developed and used with 111 junior medical students including pre- and post-tests, oral examination, clinical performance ratings by residents, and ratings by faculty on oral and written presentations and participation in tutorial sessions. Learning gains as measured by pre-post test scores were significant at the 0.001 level. Only six of 37 correlations among the evaluation measures were significantly related at the 0.01 level; furthermore, little relationship could be found between measures of student achievement in cognitive as compared to clinical skill areas. The need for multiple sources of information on student performance in clerkships is discussed.", "PMID": 453255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10487", "title": "A comparison of clindamycin-gentamicin and penicillin-gentamicin in the treatment of post-cesarean section endomyometritis.", "content": "A random comparison of clindamycin-gentamicin (C-G) and penicillin-gentamicin was made in 200 women who developed endomyometritis following cesarean section. All pretreatment profiles indicated similar populations. The clinical response was more favorable in the women receiving clindamycin-gentamicin. The implications of these results upon clinical practice is discussed.", "contents": "A comparison of clindamycin-gentamicin and penicillin-gentamicin in the treatment of post-cesarean section endomyometritis. A random comparison of clindamycin-gentamicin (C-G) and penicillin-gentamicin was made in 200 women who developed endomyometritis following cesarean section. All pretreatment profiles indicated similar populations. The clinical response was more favorable in the women receiving clindamycin-gentamicin. The implications of these results upon clinical practice is discussed.", "PMID": 453256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10488", "title": "Effects of magnesium sulfate treatment on perinatal calcium metabolism. I. Maternal and fetal responses.", "content": "Serial maternal and cord blood determinations of the ions and hormones involved in calcium homeostasis were made in pre-eclamptic women treated with intravenous magnesium sulfate. A 4 gm loading dose followed by 1 to 2 gm/hr caused maternal serum magnesium concentrations to rise 150%, to levels of 3.3 to 4.5 mEq/L, and ionized calcium levels to fall 16%, to 1.89 mEq/L. The hypocalcemia etly altering calcitonin. Changes in total calcium paralleled those of ionized calcium; phosphorus levels were not affected by magnesium infusion. At the time of delivery the offspring of these women were hypermagnesemic and relatively hypocalcemic, although less so than their mothers. Fetal ionized calcium levels, although lower with magnesium treatment than in control subjects, were within the lower limits of the normal range, which perhaps explains why the fetus did not respond with increased PTH or decreased calcitonin output. These results indicate that the principal maternal response to magnesium-induced hypocalcemia involves increased parathyroid hormone secretion which tends to preserve maternal calcium homeostasis, while the fetus is partially protected from hypermagnesemia and hypocalcemia by the placenta.", "contents": "Effects of magnesium sulfate treatment on perinatal calcium metabolism. I. Maternal and fetal responses. Serial maternal and cord blood determinations of the ions and hormones involved in calcium homeostasis were made in pre-eclamptic women treated with intravenous magnesium sulfate. A 4 gm loading dose followed by 1 to 2 gm/hr caused maternal serum magnesium concentrations to rise 150%, to levels of 3.3 to 4.5 mEq/L, and ionized calcium levels to fall 16%, to 1.89 mEq/L. The hypocalcemia etly altering calcitonin. Changes in total calcium paralleled those of ionized calcium; phosphorus levels were not affected by magnesium infusion. At the time of delivery the offspring of these women were hypermagnesemic and relatively hypocalcemic, although less so than their mothers. Fetal ionized calcium levels, although lower with magnesium treatment than in control subjects, were within the lower limits of the normal range, which perhaps explains why the fetus did not respond with increased PTH or decreased calcitonin output. These results indicate that the principal maternal response to magnesium-induced hypocalcemia involves increased parathyroid hormone secretion which tends to preserve maternal calcium homeostasis, while the fetus is partially protected from hypermagnesemia and hypocalcemia by the placenta.", "PMID": 453257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10489", "title": "Human polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis in pregnancy. Development of inhibition during gestation and recovery in the postpartum period.", "content": "The phagocytosis of S. aureus by normal human PMN leukocytes was inhibited by pregnancy serum. Control sera from normal adult nulliparous women, from men, and from cord blood all functioned normally in support of phagocytosis. However, particle ingestion was reduced significantly (p less than 0.001) when leukocytes were in 15% pregnancy serum obtained at term. To determine at what stage in pregnancy the inhibition of phagocytosis could first be detected, sera were obtained from multiple pregnant donors and pooled according to week of gestation. Significantly fewer bacteria were ingested in each of the serum pools obtained after week 16 of pregnancy and the inhibitory effect persisted through gestation. Following delivery, less inhibition was detected as early as 2 days post partum. Phagocytosis assays were performed in six matched maternal and cord serum pairs. Five of the six maternal sera showed inhibition of phagocytosis; one pregnancy and all cord sera functioned normally in support of bacterial ingestion by normal granulocytes. Since neutrophils are essential to the development of rheumatoid arthritis and certian other inflammatory disorders, the subsidence of these diseases during gestation and their exacerbation post partum could be related, at least in part, to the inhibitory effects of pregnancy serum on leukocyte functions.", "contents": "Human polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis in pregnancy. Development of inhibition during gestation and recovery in the postpartum period. The phagocytosis of S. aureus by normal human PMN leukocytes was inhibited by pregnancy serum. Control sera from normal adult nulliparous women, from men, and from cord blood all functioned normally in support of phagocytosis. However, particle ingestion was reduced significantly (p less than 0.001) when leukocytes were in 15% pregnancy serum obtained at term. To determine at what stage in pregnancy the inhibition of phagocytosis could first be detected, sera were obtained from multiple pregnant donors and pooled according to week of gestation. Significantly fewer bacteria were ingested in each of the serum pools obtained after week 16 of pregnancy and the inhibitory effect persisted through gestation. Following delivery, less inhibition was detected as early as 2 days post partum. Phagocytosis assays were performed in six matched maternal and cord serum pairs. Five of the six maternal sera showed inhibition of phagocytosis; one pregnancy and all cord sera functioned normally in support of bacterial ingestion by normal granulocytes. Since neutrophils are essential to the development of rheumatoid arthritis and certian other inflammatory disorders, the subsidence of these diseases during gestation and their exacerbation post partum could be related, at least in part, to the inhibitory effects of pregnancy serum on leukocyte functions.", "PMID": 453258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10490", "title": "Laminaria use in midtrimester abortions induced by intra-amniotic prostaglandin F2alpha with urea and intravenous oxytocin.", "content": "A laminaria tent was used as an adjunct during midtrimester abortion to attempt to shorten the injection-abortion interval without adversely affecting the frequency of infection, hemorrhage, failed abortion, or cervical laceration. Eighty patients, between 14 and 20 weeks' gestation and desiring pregnancy termination, were randomized into three groups. Abortion was initiated by an intra-amniotic infusion of 20 mg of prostaglandin F2alpha and 80 gm of hyperosmolar urea in Ringer's lactate (135 ml total volume), followed by oxytocin infused intravenously at 333 mU/min. Group I (N = 28) received no additional therapy; Group II (N = 23) had laminaria placed at the time of the abortifacient injection and removed 4 hours later; Group III (N = 29) had laminaria placed 4 hours prior to inejction and removed at the time of injection. The injection-abortion intervals in these three groups were 17.76, 20.80, and 12.96 hours, respectively. This study illustrates that a laminaria tent palced 4 hours prior to injection is significantly more effective than a laminaria tent placed at the time of injection, and produces a shorter mean injection-abortion interval than that in patients receiving no laminaria. Furthermore, laminaria augmentation results in no demonstrable increase in the frequency of serious complications.", "contents": "Laminaria use in midtrimester abortions induced by intra-amniotic prostaglandin F2alpha with urea and intravenous oxytocin. A laminaria tent was used as an adjunct during midtrimester abortion to attempt to shorten the injection-abortion interval without adversely affecting the frequency of infection, hemorrhage, failed abortion, or cervical laceration. Eighty patients, between 14 and 20 weeks' gestation and desiring pregnancy termination, were randomized into three groups. Abortion was initiated by an intra-amniotic infusion of 20 mg of prostaglandin F2alpha and 80 gm of hyperosmolar urea in Ringer's lactate (135 ml total volume), followed by oxytocin infused intravenously at 333 mU/min. Group I (N = 28) received no additional therapy; Group II (N = 23) had laminaria placed at the time of the abortifacient injection and removed 4 hours later; Group III (N = 29) had laminaria placed 4 hours prior to inejction and removed at the time of injection. The injection-abortion intervals in these three groups were 17.76, 20.80, and 12.96 hours, respectively. This study illustrates that a laminaria tent palced 4 hours prior to injection is significantly more effective than a laminaria tent placed at the time of injection, and produces a shorter mean injection-abortion interval than that in patients receiving no laminaria. Furthermore, laminaria augmentation results in no demonstrable increase in the frequency of serious complications.", "PMID": 453259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10491", "title": "13, 14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha concentrations in human plasma and amniotic fluid.", "content": "An antiserum to 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alphaM) was prepared and a radioimmunoassay evaluated in various reproductive states. PGF2alphaM plasma concentration was 63.6 +/- 10.3 pg/ml (mean +/- SEM) in cycling women. The concentration fluctuated throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, but no discernible patterns were noted. PGF2alphaM concentrations were elevated at the time of urea + oxytocin induced abortion (238 +/- 54 pg/ml) and during late stages of normal labor (352 +/- 107 pg/ml) but were not elevated during labor prior to 7 cm dilatation. Following intra-amniotic instillation of 5 mg of PGF2alpha tromethamine into the amniotic sac, PGF2alphaM concentration increased in the amniotic fluid. In the plasma of these patients there was an eighteenfold rise in plasma PGF2alphaM concentration compared to a 3.5-fold rise in PGF2alpha at 1 hour, suggesting changes in PGF2alphaM may be more easily detected than the parent compound. While PGF2alphaM may be a useful index of PGF2alpha production, it appears that PGF2alphaM is of little value in predicting the occurrence of uterine contraction.", "contents": "13, 14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha concentrations in human plasma and amniotic fluid. An antiserum to 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alphaM) was prepared and a radioimmunoassay evaluated in various reproductive states. PGF2alphaM plasma concentration was 63.6 +/- 10.3 pg/ml (mean +/- SEM) in cycling women. The concentration fluctuated throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, but no discernible patterns were noted. PGF2alphaM concentrations were elevated at the time of urea + oxytocin induced abortion (238 +/- 54 pg/ml) and during late stages of normal labor (352 +/- 107 pg/ml) but were not elevated during labor prior to 7 cm dilatation. Following intra-amniotic instillation of 5 mg of PGF2alpha tromethamine into the amniotic sac, PGF2alphaM concentration increased in the amniotic fluid. In the plasma of these patients there was an eighteenfold rise in plasma PGF2alphaM concentration compared to a 3.5-fold rise in PGF2alpha at 1 hour, suggesting changes in PGF2alphaM may be more easily detected than the parent compound. While PGF2alphaM may be a useful index of PGF2alpha production, it appears that PGF2alphaM is of little value in predicting the occurrence of uterine contraction.", "PMID": 453260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10492", "title": "Effect of maternal glucose load on fetal activity.", "content": "The effect of a MGL upon fetal activity has been studied in 39 normal and 54 high-risk pregnant patients between 30 and 42 weeks' gestation. The perinatal morbidity and mortality rates were significantly lower in the group showing an increase in fetal activity following a MGL. It is suggested that this may be useful for identifying the fetus at risk.", "contents": "Effect of maternal glucose load on fetal activity. The effect of a MGL upon fetal activity has been studied in 39 normal and 54 high-risk pregnant patients between 30 and 42 weeks' gestation. The perinatal morbidity and mortality rates were significantly lower in the group showing an increase in fetal activity following a MGL. It is suggested that this may be useful for identifying the fetus at risk.", "PMID": 453261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10493", "title": "Relationship of fetal bradycardia to maternal administration of lidocaine in sheep.", "content": "The casual relationship between the use of lidocaine and fetal bradycardia and the effect of the drug on maternal and fetal hemodynamics were studied on 13 chronically instrumented pregnant sheep. Lidocaine was infused intravenously to the mother for 60 minutes during arterial lidocaine concentrations were maintained at 2 to 5 microgram per milliliter in the mother and at less than 2 microgram per milliliter in the fetus. A decrease in uterine blood flow and an increase in uterine vascular resistance and uterine activity occurred immediately following the administration of lidocaine to the ewe. These changes were followed by a transient fetal bradycardia in 12 out of 17 experiments, accompanied by a decrease in fetal PaO2 values. These phenomena were seen in the absence of such predisposing conditions as maternal hypotension and fetal acidosis. It would appear that the mechanism responsible for a transient fetal bradycardia following regional obstetric anesthesia, particularly paracervical block anesthesia, in the initially nonasphyxiated fetus may in part be related to a brief decrease in perfusion of intervillous spaces. The bradycardia can occur at low lidocaine concentrations in both the maternal and fetal blood in a range similar to that observed in clinical practice.", "contents": "Relationship of fetal bradycardia to maternal administration of lidocaine in sheep. The casual relationship between the use of lidocaine and fetal bradycardia and the effect of the drug on maternal and fetal hemodynamics were studied on 13 chronically instrumented pregnant sheep. Lidocaine was infused intravenously to the mother for 60 minutes during arterial lidocaine concentrations were maintained at 2 to 5 microgram per milliliter in the mother and at less than 2 microgram per milliliter in the fetus. A decrease in uterine blood flow and an increase in uterine vascular resistance and uterine activity occurred immediately following the administration of lidocaine to the ewe. These changes were followed by a transient fetal bradycardia in 12 out of 17 experiments, accompanied by a decrease in fetal PaO2 values. These phenomena were seen in the absence of such predisposing conditions as maternal hypotension and fetal acidosis. It would appear that the mechanism responsible for a transient fetal bradycardia following regional obstetric anesthesia, particularly paracervical block anesthesia, in the initially nonasphyxiated fetus may in part be related to a brief decrease in perfusion of intervillous spaces. The bradycardia can occur at low lidocaine concentrations in both the maternal and fetal blood in a range similar to that observed in clinical practice.", "PMID": 453262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10494", "title": "Studies on the cytodynamics of human endometrial regeneration. III. In vitro short-term incubation historadioautography.", "content": "The proliferation kinetics of endometrial regeneration were assessed by tracing nucleoprotein precursor, radiothymidine. Increased isotope uptake occurred by cycle day 3 and was confined to the gland cells of denuded stratum basale (basal layer) and persistent uterine lining, bordering peripheral areas of denudation. This increase resulted in the formation of flattened surface epithelial cells, which initially were devoid of significant deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. Such alterations are consistent with changes in cells involved in ameboid migration. Maturation of migrating cells was accompanied by a significant rise in labeling indices and replication at cycle days 3 and 4. By cycle day 5, endometrial repair was complete. The findings indicate that, following physiologic loss of stratum functionale, endometrial healing involves both migration and replication of surface cells, which originate from the gland stumps of the residual basal layer and the persistent surface epithelium adjacent to the periphery of denuded endometrium.", "contents": "Studies on the cytodynamics of human endometrial regeneration. III. In vitro short-term incubation historadioautography. The proliferation kinetics of endometrial regeneration were assessed by tracing nucleoprotein precursor, radiothymidine. Increased isotope uptake occurred by cycle day 3 and was confined to the gland cells of denuded stratum basale (basal layer) and persistent uterine lining, bordering peripheral areas of denudation. This increase resulted in the formation of flattened surface epithelial cells, which initially were devoid of significant deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. Such alterations are consistent with changes in cells involved in ameboid migration. Maturation of migrating cells was accompanied by a significant rise in labeling indices and replication at cycle days 3 and 4. By cycle day 5, endometrial repair was complete. The findings indicate that, following physiologic loss of stratum functionale, endometrial healing involves both migration and replication of surface cells, which originate from the gland stumps of the residual basal layer and the persistent surface epithelium adjacent to the periphery of denuded endometrium.", "PMID": 453263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10495", "title": "A syndrome characterized by recurrent symptomatic functional ovarian cysts in young women.", "content": "A syndrome characterized by the persistent recurrence of symptomatic functional ovarian cysts, elevated plasma estradiol levels, and infertility in four young patients is described. Two of the patients experienced recurring ovarian cysts following total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Pathologic findings confirmed the presence of ovarian tissue in all cysts. Recurrent cysts formation is attributed to either an increased production of gonadotropins or a hypersensitive response to normal gonadotropins. The development of recurrent cysts following bilateral oophorectomy indicates that some ovarian or \"ovarian-like\" tissue is present within the pelvic cavity, anatomically unrelated to the normally positioned ovaries. This extraovarian tissue may become sensitive to circulating gonadotropin levels in the absence of normal ovarian tissue. The source of this extraovarian tissue is discussed from an embryologic standpoint.", "contents": "A syndrome characterized by recurrent symptomatic functional ovarian cysts in young women. A syndrome characterized by the persistent recurrence of symptomatic functional ovarian cysts, elevated plasma estradiol levels, and infertility in four young patients is described. Two of the patients experienced recurring ovarian cysts following total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Pathologic findings confirmed the presence of ovarian tissue in all cysts. Recurrent cysts formation is attributed to either an increased production of gonadotropins or a hypersensitive response to normal gonadotropins. The development of recurrent cysts following bilateral oophorectomy indicates that some ovarian or \"ovarian-like\" tissue is present within the pelvic cavity, anatomically unrelated to the normally positioned ovaries. This extraovarian tissue may become sensitive to circulating gonadotropin levels in the absence of normal ovarian tissue. The source of this extraovarian tissue is discussed from an embryologic standpoint.", "PMID": 453264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10496", "title": "Ovum transport in women treated with methyl ergonovine.", "content": "The location of ova in the genital tract was studied between 24 and 120 hours after the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge in 32 women who had been treated with methyl ergonovine in doses known to stimulate tubal contractility. Thirteen eggs were found in the fallopian tubes, between 48 and 120 hours after th LH peak, and no eggs were recovered from the endoemtrial cavity. No significant difference in tubal ovum recovery or in tubal segmental distribution of ova was found in comparison with these parameters in an untreated control group. These results indicate that stimulation of tubal contractility with methyl ergonovine does not accelerate ovum transport through the fallopian tubes in the human.", "contents": "Ovum transport in women treated with methyl ergonovine. The location of ova in the genital tract was studied between 24 and 120 hours after the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge in 32 women who had been treated with methyl ergonovine in doses known to stimulate tubal contractility. Thirteen eggs were found in the fallopian tubes, between 48 and 120 hours after th LH peak, and no eggs were recovered from the endoemtrial cavity. No significant difference in tubal ovum recovery or in tubal segmental distribution of ova was found in comparison with these parameters in an untreated control group. These results indicate that stimulation of tubal contractility with methyl ergonovine does not accelerate ovum transport through the fallopian tubes in the human.", "PMID": 453265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10497", "title": "Ultrasound in the diagnosis of congenital anomalies.", "content": "With high-resolution ultrasound equipment, it is now possible to diagnose certain fetal anomalies in the third trimester and in some cases before the twentieth week of gestation. During a 27 month period 2,548 ultrasound scans were performed in high-risk patients. An anomaly was diagnosed in 10 of 122 second-trimester patients who were at risk for recurrent fetal defects. Fetal deformity was also found in 26 third-trimester patients. Of the 2.8% of patients found to have polyhydramnios 18% were associated with various types of anomaly. With ultrasound it was possible to examine internal fetal anatomy and to identify abnormalities of the fetal cranium, spine, chest, abdomen, and limbs. These anomalies are reviewed here in detail. Based on ultrasonically derived information, second-trimester patients can be offered information concerning the status of their fetuses at risk genetically and physicians can better manage third-trimester patients with diagnosed fetal deformities.", "contents": "Ultrasound in the diagnosis of congenital anomalies. With high-resolution ultrasound equipment, it is now possible to diagnose certain fetal anomalies in the third trimester and in some cases before the twentieth week of gestation. During a 27 month period 2,548 ultrasound scans were performed in high-risk patients. An anomaly was diagnosed in 10 of 122 second-trimester patients who were at risk for recurrent fetal defects. Fetal deformity was also found in 26 third-trimester patients. Of the 2.8% of patients found to have polyhydramnios 18% were associated with various types of anomaly. With ultrasound it was possible to examine internal fetal anatomy and to identify abnormalities of the fetal cranium, spine, chest, abdomen, and limbs. These anomalies are reviewed here in detail. Based on ultrasonically derived information, second-trimester patients can be offered information concerning the status of their fetuses at risk genetically and physicians can better manage third-trimester patients with diagnosed fetal deformities.", "PMID": 453266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10498", "title": "Deformation and creep in the human chorioamniotic sac.", "content": "This paper presents a review of physical principles involved in deformation and creep in the human chorioamniotic membrane. These are definable rheological properties found in many materials. Experimental data are presented on 66 human fetal membranes. A difference in the stress tolerance between preterm and term membranes is demonstrated. A computer model has been devised which allows for the calculation of changes in thickness of the membrane at the point of fracture. This computer model allows for the study of the physical property of the tissue in ways which have not previously been suggested. The model suggests that the pathophysiology related to rupture of the membrane is based on changes in the thickness of this tissue occurring secondary to acute and chronic stress applications. The data derived in these experiments suggest a possible physical model for rupture of the membranes; they also introduce questions regarding the anatomic and biochemical makeup of the chorion and the amnion and the respective role that each plays in maintaining the integrity of the human chorioamniotic sac.", "contents": "Deformation and creep in the human chorioamniotic sac. This paper presents a review of physical principles involved in deformation and creep in the human chorioamniotic membrane. These are definable rheological properties found in many materials. Experimental data are presented on 66 human fetal membranes. A difference in the stress tolerance between preterm and term membranes is demonstrated. A computer model has been devised which allows for the calculation of changes in thickness of the membrane at the point of fracture. This computer model allows for the study of the physical property of the tissue in ways which have not previously been suggested. The model suggests that the pathophysiology related to rupture of the membrane is based on changes in the thickness of this tissue occurring secondary to acute and chronic stress applications. The data derived in these experiments suggest a possible physical model for rupture of the membranes; they also introduce questions regarding the anatomic and biochemical makeup of the chorion and the amnion and the respective role that each plays in maintaining the integrity of the human chorioamniotic sac.", "PMID": 453271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10499", "title": "Management of prolonged pregnancy: results of a prospective randomized trial.", "content": "Prolonged pregnancy was rigorously defined in 180 gravid women without other complications. Patients were randomly assigned to be serially followed, either by amniocenteses or by oxytocin challenge tests (OCT's). Induction of labor, based upon only (1) a finding of meconium in the amniocentesis group or (2) a positive test in the OCT group, was nearly three times more frequent in the amniocentesis group. The incidence of meconium, which overall was 22% initially and 44% at delivery, as well as the frequencies of obstetric and perinatal complications, were similar in both management groups. Although meconium was significantly associated with abnormal labor progression, intrapartum fetal distress, and low 1 and 5 minute Apgar scores, induction of labor after discovery of meconium, when compared to nonintervention, did not improve perinatal outcome. It is concluded that a search for meconium is of little value in the management of prolonged pregnancy.", "contents": "Management of prolonged pregnancy: results of a prospective randomized trial. Prolonged pregnancy was rigorously defined in 180 gravid women without other complications. Patients were randomly assigned to be serially followed, either by amniocenteses or by oxytocin challenge tests (OCT's). Induction of labor, based upon only (1) a finding of meconium in the amniocentesis group or (2) a positive test in the OCT group, was nearly three times more frequent in the amniocentesis group. The incidence of meconium, which overall was 22% initially and 44% at delivery, as well as the frequencies of obstetric and perinatal complications, were similar in both management groups. Although meconium was significantly associated with abnormal labor progression, intrapartum fetal distress, and low 1 and 5 minute Apgar scores, induction of labor after discovery of meconium, when compared to nonintervention, did not improve perinatal outcome. It is concluded that a search for meconium is of little value in the management of prolonged pregnancy.", "PMID": 453272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10500", "title": "Female sex hormone receptors and their importance in clinical practice.", "content": "We now know a great deal about the early steps in the induction of a steroid hormone response at the cellular level. This helps to explain some of the observed clinical responses and also the development of some congenital anomalies. The importance of progesterone as a balance to the proliferative effects of extrogen both in hormone replacement therapy and in the hormone-sensitive tumors is clear. It is hoped that further studies will guide us to ways in which we might enhance these benefits.", "contents": "Female sex hormone receptors and their importance in clinical practice. We now know a great deal about the early steps in the induction of a steroid hormone response at the cellular level. This helps to explain some of the observed clinical responses and also the development of some congenital anomalies. The importance of progesterone as a balance to the proliferative effects of extrogen both in hormone replacement therapy and in the hormone-sensitive tumors is clear. It is hoped that further studies will guide us to ways in which we might enhance these benefits.", "PMID": 453273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10501", "title": "Cesarean hysterectomy: a twenty-five-year review.", "content": "This article analyzes cesarean hysterectomies performed at Louisville General Hospital on clinic patients for the 25 year period 1953 through 1977. During this time there were 63,259 deliveries, of which 2417 were cesarean sections and 149 were cesarean hysterectomies. Twenty-six of the latter were classified as emergency operations done for urgent medical indications; in the remaining 123 patients the indications were elective to some degree. Operative and postoperative complications and morbidity are discussed, and changing trends regarding the place of cesarean hysterectomy in obstetrics over the years are evaluated.", "contents": "Cesarean hysterectomy: a twenty-five-year review. This article analyzes cesarean hysterectomies performed at Louisville General Hospital on clinic patients for the 25 year period 1953 through 1977. During this time there were 63,259 deliveries, of which 2417 were cesarean sections and 149 were cesarean hysterectomies. Twenty-six of the latter were classified as emergency operations done for urgent medical indications; in the remaining 123 patients the indications were elective to some degree. Operative and postoperative complications and morbidity are discussed, and changing trends regarding the place of cesarean hysterectomy in obstetrics over the years are evaluated.", "PMID": 453275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10502", "title": "A controlled trial of the differential effects of intrapartum fetal monitoring.", "content": "A controlled prospective study of the differential effects of intrapartum fetal monitoring on mothers and infants has been conducted at Denver General Hospital, Denver, Colorado. A total of 690 high-risk obstetric patients in labor were randomly assigned to one of three monitoring groups--auscultation, electronic fetal monitoring alone, or electronic monitoring with the option to scalp sample. There were no differences in immediate infant outcomes in any measured category (Apgar scores, cord blood gases, neonatal death, neonatal morbidity, nursery course) among the three groups. There were no differences in rates of infant or maternal infections. The cesarean section rate was markedly increased in the electronically monitored groups, especially in the electronically monitored alone (18%) as compared with the auscultated (6%) (P less than 0.005). In this controlled trial electronic monitoring did not improve neonatal outcomes and the mothers were at increased risk of cesarean section.", "contents": "A controlled trial of the differential effects of intrapartum fetal monitoring. A controlled prospective study of the differential effects of intrapartum fetal monitoring on mothers and infants has been conducted at Denver General Hospital, Denver, Colorado. A total of 690 high-risk obstetric patients in labor were randomly assigned to one of three monitoring groups--auscultation, electronic fetal monitoring alone, or electronic monitoring with the option to scalp sample. There were no differences in immediate infant outcomes in any measured category (Apgar scores, cord blood gases, neonatal death, neonatal morbidity, nursery course) among the three groups. There were no differences in rates of infant or maternal infections. The cesarean section rate was markedly increased in the electronically monitored groups, especially in the electronically monitored alone (18%) as compared with the auscultated (6%) (P less than 0.005). In this controlled trial electronic monitoring did not improve neonatal outcomes and the mothers were at increased risk of cesarean section.", "PMID": 453276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10503", "title": "Perinatal deaths in twin pregnancy. A five-year analysis of statewide statistics in Missouri.", "content": "Analysis of computer-stored State of Missouri birth and death records over a 5 year period revealed 3,594 twin pregnancies (1.02% of all pregnancies), which accounted for 10.1% of the perinatal deaths. The mean birth weight according to weeks of gestation was computed for the pregnancies with no complications noted prior to labor and the perinatal mortality rate was determined. Complications of pregnancy were evaluated. Low birth weight appears to be the major factor in the elevated perinatal death rate in twin pregnancy, with a significant elevation of the perinatal death rate noted with labor prior to 36 weeks, any episode of hemorrhage, or premature rupture of membranes. A more liberal use of cesarean section currently shows no effect in altering the perinatal mortality rate. Programs are suggested to increase early detection and appropriate consultation and referral of multiple pregnancies in a statewide comprehensive effort to decrease the perinatal mortality rate in twin pregnancy.", "contents": "Perinatal deaths in twin pregnancy. A five-year analysis of statewide statistics in Missouri. Analysis of computer-stored State of Missouri birth and death records over a 5 year period revealed 3,594 twin pregnancies (1.02% of all pregnancies), which accounted for 10.1% of the perinatal deaths. The mean birth weight according to weeks of gestation was computed for the pregnancies with no complications noted prior to labor and the perinatal mortality rate was determined. Complications of pregnancy were evaluated. Low birth weight appears to be the major factor in the elevated perinatal death rate in twin pregnancy, with a significant elevation of the perinatal death rate noted with labor prior to 36 weeks, any episode of hemorrhage, or premature rupture of membranes. A more liberal use of cesarean section currently shows no effect in altering the perinatal mortality rate. Programs are suggested to increase early detection and appropriate consultation and referral of multiple pregnancies in a statewide comprehensive effort to decrease the perinatal mortality rate in twin pregnancy.", "PMID": 453277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10504", "title": "Ultrasonic evaluation of the fetal heart. A report of experience and anatomic correlation.", "content": "Identification of fetal intracardiac structures in utero is accomplished with B-scan, gray-scale ultrasonography. Sagittal and transverse ultrasonographs of the interventricular septum, aortic root, tricuspid, and mitral valves are presented. These structures are characterized with respect to their relations to each other, atrial and ventricular chambers, and acoustic appearances. Correlation of these cardiac structures is made with gross anatomic fetal specimens sectioned in longitudinal and transverse planes. Recognition of fetal intracardiac detail may be of aid in future noninvasive investigations of human fetal cardiovascular dynamics.", "contents": "Ultrasonic evaluation of the fetal heart. A report of experience and anatomic correlation. Identification of fetal intracardiac structures in utero is accomplished with B-scan, gray-scale ultrasonography. Sagittal and transverse ultrasonographs of the interventricular septum, aortic root, tricuspid, and mitral valves are presented. These structures are characterized with respect to their relations to each other, atrial and ventricular chambers, and acoustic appearances. Correlation of these cardiac structures is made with gross anatomic fetal specimens sectioned in longitudinal and transverse planes. Recognition of fetal intracardiac detail may be of aid in future noninvasive investigations of human fetal cardiovascular dynamics.", "PMID": 453278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10505", "title": "Ten-year review of hysterectomies: trends, indications, and risks.", "content": "This report concerns the indications, morbidity, and death associated with 6,435 consecutive abdominal and vaginal hysterectomies at Hutzel Hospital during a 10 year period. There was an extraordinary number of high-risk patients included in this group. Morbidity and postoperative bleeding were more common following vaginal rather than abdominal hysterectomy. These complications were also more common when the operation was performed during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. There were 17 deaths. Thromboembolic complications were the major cause of death. Selective use of prophylactic antibiotics and low-dose heparin and reduction in the number of blood transfusions by preoperative endocrine and hematinic therapy may reduce the postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Probably few operations will ever contribute as much to improving the quality of life of women as do indicated hysterectomies. However, the added risk do not seem to justify utilizing this operation for the sole purpose of sterilization in preference to simpler and safer procedures.", "contents": "Ten-year review of hysterectomies: trends, indications, and risks. This report concerns the indications, morbidity, and death associated with 6,435 consecutive abdominal and vaginal hysterectomies at Hutzel Hospital during a 10 year period. There was an extraordinary number of high-risk patients included in this group. Morbidity and postoperative bleeding were more common following vaginal rather than abdominal hysterectomy. These complications were also more common when the operation was performed during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. There were 17 deaths. Thromboembolic complications were the major cause of death. Selective use of prophylactic antibiotics and low-dose heparin and reduction in the number of blood transfusions by preoperative endocrine and hematinic therapy may reduce the postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Probably few operations will ever contribute as much to improving the quality of life of women as do indicated hysterectomies. However, the added risk do not seem to justify utilizing this operation for the sole purpose of sterilization in preference to simpler and safer procedures.", "PMID": 453279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10506", "title": "Unsuspected subclinical pregnancies in patients with luteal phase defects.", "content": "Patients with different types of luteal phase defects were studied with the use of the radioimmunoassay for the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to determine if unsuspected subclinical pregnancies were more common in a particular type of defect. A type I luteal phase defect is always characterized by a chronologic lag in endometrial development when repeatedly studied with timed endometrial biopsies. A type II luteal phase defect is always characterized by an in phase endometrium when repeatedly studied by timed endometrial biopsies but always has less than a 14 day luteal span. All blood samples were drawn at least 7 days after ovulation/conception. In 22 cycles in which patients had a type I luteal phase defect, no subclinical pregnancies were detected. In 18 cycles in which a type II luteal phase defect was present, 12 instances of unsuspected subclinical pregnancy were detected and all ended in spontaneous abortion. This study shows that unsuspected subclinical pregnancies ending in abortion do occur and are quite commonly associated with the type II luteal phase defect.", "contents": "Unsuspected subclinical pregnancies in patients with luteal phase defects. Patients with different types of luteal phase defects were studied with the use of the radioimmunoassay for the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to determine if unsuspected subclinical pregnancies were more common in a particular type of defect. A type I luteal phase defect is always characterized by a chronologic lag in endometrial development when repeatedly studied with timed endometrial biopsies. A type II luteal phase defect is always characterized by an in phase endometrium when repeatedly studied by timed endometrial biopsies but always has less than a 14 day luteal span. All blood samples were drawn at least 7 days after ovulation/conception. In 22 cycles in which patients had a type I luteal phase defect, no subclinical pregnancies were detected. In 18 cycles in which a type II luteal phase defect was present, 12 instances of unsuspected subclinical pregnancy were detected and all ended in spontaneous abortion. This study shows that unsuspected subclinical pregnancies ending in abortion do occur and are quite commonly associated with the type II luteal phase defect.", "PMID": 453280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10507", "title": "Stage I squamous cell cancer of the vulva.", "content": "A review of 106 patients with Stage I squamous cell cancer of the vulva treated at the Mayo Clinic from 1950 through 1975 is presented. Microinvasive lesions (5 mm penetration or less) were present in 96 patients (91%); invasive lesions (more than 5 mm penetration) were diagnosed in 10 (9%). Inguinal node involvement was present in nine patients (8.4%); one of these also had pelvic node involvement. Recurrence developed in 13 patients (12%). Four patients experienced inguinal node metastasis after initial surgical therapy. The incidence of positive nodes among patients with lesions invading the stroma for 3 mm or less was 3%. Thus, individualization for inguinal lymphadenectomy may be possible according to the age and condition of the patient when the depth of invasion is 3 mm or less.", "contents": "Stage I squamous cell cancer of the vulva. A review of 106 patients with Stage I squamous cell cancer of the vulva treated at the Mayo Clinic from 1950 through 1975 is presented. Microinvasive lesions (5 mm penetration or less) were present in 96 patients (91%); invasive lesions (more than 5 mm penetration) were diagnosed in 10 (9%). Inguinal node involvement was present in nine patients (8.4%); one of these also had pelvic node involvement. Recurrence developed in 13 patients (12%). Four patients experienced inguinal node metastasis after initial surgical therapy. The incidence of positive nodes among patients with lesions invading the stroma for 3 mm or less was 3%. Thus, individualization for inguinal lymphadenectomy may be possible according to the age and condition of the patient when the depth of invasion is 3 mm or less.", "PMID": 453281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10508", "title": "The nonstress test for the antepartum assessment of fetal reserve.", "content": "Seven hundred and twenty-two nonstress tests (NSTs) that were performed on a total of 471 patients were reviewed. The results of the study suggest that the NST is a simple, reliable test as a primary screening procedure in antepartum fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring. The active and reactive tests were indeed reliable indicators of fetal well-being while the nonreactive test required an additional discriminatory evaluation. A tentative classification is suggested for those cases with FHR decelerations associated with fetal activity and uterine contractions.", "contents": "The nonstress test for the antepartum assessment of fetal reserve. Seven hundred and twenty-two nonstress tests (NSTs) that were performed on a total of 471 patients were reviewed. The results of the study suggest that the NST is a simple, reliable test as a primary screening procedure in antepartum fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring. The active and reactive tests were indeed reliable indicators of fetal well-being while the nonreactive test required an additional discriminatory evaluation. A tentative classification is suggested for those cases with FHR decelerations associated with fetal activity and uterine contractions.", "PMID": 453282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10509", "title": "A radioreceptor assay for human chorionic gonadotropin in normal and abnormal pregnancies: a clinical evaluation.", "content": "The human chorionic gonadotropin-radioreceptor assay (hCG-RRA) offers a rapid and accurate method of diagnosing early and abnormal pregnancies. Such a method is described along with clinical correlations in 139 assays done on 122 patients with amenorrhea, normal pregnancies, infertility, trophoblastic disease, ectopic pregnancies, and missed or incomplete abortions. The accuracy of the test is correlated with weeks of amenorrhea, weeks after ovulation, and clinical diagnoses. The overall accuracy of the assay was 95%. Those performed more than 28 days after the last menstrual period had an accuracy of 96.4%. There were no errors in the diagnosis of eight ectopic pregnancies among 33 suspected cases. Three patients are described who had serial changes from negative to positive early in pregnancy, providing data on precise timing of a positive result. Cases of missed abortion sometimes demonstrate a positive hCG-RRA after documented fetal loss. Recommendations for the most appropriate use of the hCG-RRA are presented based on the clinical experience at one referral center during the period January, 1977, to June, 1978.", "contents": "A radioreceptor assay for human chorionic gonadotropin in normal and abnormal pregnancies: a clinical evaluation. The human chorionic gonadotropin-radioreceptor assay (hCG-RRA) offers a rapid and accurate method of diagnosing early and abnormal pregnancies. Such a method is described along with clinical correlations in 139 assays done on 122 patients with amenorrhea, normal pregnancies, infertility, trophoblastic disease, ectopic pregnancies, and missed or incomplete abortions. The accuracy of the test is correlated with weeks of amenorrhea, weeks after ovulation, and clinical diagnoses. The overall accuracy of the assay was 95%. Those performed more than 28 days after the last menstrual period had an accuracy of 96.4%. There were no errors in the diagnosis of eight ectopic pregnancies among 33 suspected cases. Three patients are described who had serial changes from negative to positive early in pregnancy, providing data on precise timing of a positive result. Cases of missed abortion sometimes demonstrate a positive hCG-RRA after documented fetal loss. Recommendations for the most appropriate use of the hCG-RRA are presented based on the clinical experience at one referral center during the period January, 1977, to June, 1978.", "PMID": 453283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10510", "title": "Social problems of women patients in a private obstetrics and gynecology clinic.", "content": "Patients present or exhibit problems other than physical ones to their physicians and need access to some type of assistance for them. Over a 1 year period, women patients were referred to and seen by the medical social worker employed by a private obstetrics and gynecology clinic. Their social problems were studied by content analysis of patients' records, patients' social services cards, and monthly social services summaries. Results showed that 163 women exhibited 288 social problems consisting of three major types, financial, marital, and emotional. Various relationships were shown between the type of social problem and the primary reason the patient visited the clinic. It was also shown that if a patient has a financial problem, she is more likely to have a greater number of social problems than are other patients.", "contents": "Social problems of women patients in a private obstetrics and gynecology clinic. Patients present or exhibit problems other than physical ones to their physicians and need access to some type of assistance for them. Over a 1 year period, women patients were referred to and seen by the medical social worker employed by a private obstetrics and gynecology clinic. Their social problems were studied by content analysis of patients' records, patients' social services cards, and monthly social services summaries. Results showed that 163 women exhibited 288 social problems consisting of three major types, financial, marital, and emotional. Various relationships were shown between the type of social problem and the primary reason the patient visited the clinic. It was also shown that if a patient has a financial problem, she is more likely to have a greater number of social problems than are other patients.", "PMID": 453284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10511", "title": "One-way maternal transport: an evolving concept. Inpatient services.", "content": "Transporting the high-risk pregnant woman to a tertiary center prior to labor or delivery, in an attempt to offer more intensive care to the patient and her infant, has gained increasing support from medical communities over the past few years. Because of this concept, tertiary centers need to be actively involved in the organization of these transport systems and to be certain that all members of the perinatal team at the referring as well as the receiving center are kept informed of events. This paper describes how Vanderbilt University Hospital initiated an acitive one-way maternal transport system and how that system is maintained and reviews the first 176 patients treated under that system. Establishing direct lines of communication between the practicing physician and the tertiary center and emphasizing continuing education at all levels seem to be important aspects in the development and maintenance of such a referral system.", "contents": "One-way maternal transport: an evolving concept. Inpatient services. Transporting the high-risk pregnant woman to a tertiary center prior to labor or delivery, in an attempt to offer more intensive care to the patient and her infant, has gained increasing support from medical communities over the past few years. Because of this concept, tertiary centers need to be actively involved in the organization of these transport systems and to be certain that all members of the perinatal team at the referring as well as the receiving center are kept informed of events. This paper describes how Vanderbilt University Hospital initiated an acitive one-way maternal transport system and how that system is maintained and reviews the first 176 patients treated under that system. Establishing direct lines of communication between the practicing physician and the tertiary center and emphasizing continuing education at all levels seem to be important aspects in the development and maintenance of such a referral system.", "PMID": 453285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10512", "title": "Induction of labor following intrauterine death with intra-amniotic hyperosmolar urea and prostaglandin F2alpha: evaluation of placental endocrine function and changes in coagulation parameters.", "content": "A practicable and reliable method for inducing labor in patients whose pregnancies are complicated by intrauterine death of the fetus is described. The method involves the intra-amniotic instillation of 30 mg of prostaglandin F2alpha with 60 gm of urea. Twenty patients had pregnancies ranging between 22 and 41 weeks and the estimated duration of fetal death ranged between two and eight weeks. Delivery was achieved within 24 hours in all cases. Side effects and complications were minimal. Plasma human placental lactogen (hPL) and progesterone concentrations, as well as several blood coagulation parameters (i.e., plasma fibrinogen, blood platelet count, and serum fibrin degradation products (FDP) concentrations), were measured immediately prior to induction of labor. The latter (i.e., coagulation factors) were repeated at parturition. The presence of residual viable placenta prior to induction did not influence the induction-delivery interval. No statistically significant alterations in blood coagulation parameters that could be attributed to the specific method of induction employed were noted.", "contents": "Induction of labor following intrauterine death with intra-amniotic hyperosmolar urea and prostaglandin F2alpha: evaluation of placental endocrine function and changes in coagulation parameters. A practicable and reliable method for inducing labor in patients whose pregnancies are complicated by intrauterine death of the fetus is described. The method involves the intra-amniotic instillation of 30 mg of prostaglandin F2alpha with 60 gm of urea. Twenty patients had pregnancies ranging between 22 and 41 weeks and the estimated duration of fetal death ranged between two and eight weeks. Delivery was achieved within 24 hours in all cases. Side effects and complications were minimal. Plasma human placental lactogen (hPL) and progesterone concentrations, as well as several blood coagulation parameters (i.e., plasma fibrinogen, blood platelet count, and serum fibrin degradation products (FDP) concentrations), were measured immediately prior to induction of labor. The latter (i.e., coagulation factors) were repeated at parturition. The presence of residual viable placenta prior to induction did not influence the induction-delivery interval. No statistically significant alterations in blood coagulation parameters that could be attributed to the specific method of induction employed were noted.", "PMID": 453286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10513", "title": "The effect of chlorotrianisene as postpartum lactation suppression on blood coagulation factors.", "content": "Coagulation changes and increased risk of thromboembolic disease may occur in association with estrogen administration. The puerperium is also a high-risk period for thromboembolism, and estrogen administration at this time may increase this risk. Patients with congenital deficiency of antithrombin III have recurrent venous thromboembolic disease, suggesting that low levels of this factor may be associated with \"hypercoagulability\" states. We studied 50 postpartum patients who received chlorotrianisene (Tace) or placebo for lactation suppression in a prospective, double-blind, randomized fashion. Antithrombin III values were significantly lower on the third day post partum in the treated group compared to the placebo group (p less than 0.05). In addition, our clinical data from a total of 99 patients support the previous evidence that estrogens delay rather than prevent breast engorgement. Thus, with questionable benefit and a possible increased thromboembolic risk, it would appear prudent to discontinue the practice of estrogen administration for lactation suppression.", "contents": "The effect of chlorotrianisene as postpartum lactation suppression on blood coagulation factors. Coagulation changes and increased risk of thromboembolic disease may occur in association with estrogen administration. The puerperium is also a high-risk period for thromboembolism, and estrogen administration at this time may increase this risk. Patients with congenital deficiency of antithrombin III have recurrent venous thromboembolic disease, suggesting that low levels of this factor may be associated with \"hypercoagulability\" states. We studied 50 postpartum patients who received chlorotrianisene (Tace) or placebo for lactation suppression in a prospective, double-blind, randomized fashion. Antithrombin III values were significantly lower on the third day post partum in the treated group compared to the placebo group (p less than 0.05). In addition, our clinical data from a total of 99 patients support the previous evidence that estrogens delay rather than prevent breast engorgement. Thus, with questionable benefit and a possible increased thromboembolic risk, it would appear prudent to discontinue the practice of estrogen administration for lactation suppression.", "PMID": 453287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10514", "title": "Acceleration of the fetal heart rate.", "content": "Acceleration of the fetal heart rate during contractions was usually followed by deceleration, and evidence is presented to show that it results from increased sympathetic drive and may be associated with fetal tissue hypoxia. However, the presence of accelerations are not serious and merely warn the obstetrician of the possibility of the occurrence of subsequent decelerations. The mechanism thought most likely to produce accelerations is uterine compression of the umbilical vein during contractions.", "contents": "Acceleration of the fetal heart rate. Acceleration of the fetal heart rate during contractions was usually followed by deceleration, and evidence is presented to show that it results from increased sympathetic drive and may be associated with fetal tissue hypoxia. However, the presence of accelerations are not serious and merely warn the obstetrician of the possibility of the occurrence of subsequent decelerations. The mechanism thought most likely to produce accelerations is uterine compression of the umbilical vein during contractions.", "PMID": 453288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10515", "title": "Assessment of fetal lung maturity: a comparison of the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio and the tests of optical density at 400 and 650 nm.", "content": "Seventy-eight amniotic fluid samples were obtained by transabdominal amniocentesis and were analyzed for their L/S ratio and optical density at 400 and 650 nm. The L/S ratio was considered to be mature if the values were greater than 2.0. The optical density of the fluids decreased with prolonged refrigeration. With freshly centrifuged samples, the OD650 reading of greater than 0.15 gave the best correlation with the mature L/S ratio. There were 3.8% false positive results and 14.1% false negative results. The study confirms that the OD650 test on fresh amniotic fluid is a rapid and inexpensive way to determine fetal maturity. All samples with values of less than 0.15 must, however, also be tested for their L/S ratio since some of the infants with these values may also be mature.", "contents": "Assessment of fetal lung maturity: a comparison of the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio and the tests of optical density at 400 and 650 nm. Seventy-eight amniotic fluid samples were obtained by transabdominal amniocentesis and were analyzed for their L/S ratio and optical density at 400 and 650 nm. The L/S ratio was considered to be mature if the values were greater than 2.0. The optical density of the fluids decreased with prolonged refrigeration. With freshly centrifuged samples, the OD650 reading of greater than 0.15 gave the best correlation with the mature L/S ratio. There were 3.8% false positive results and 14.1% false negative results. The study confirms that the OD650 test on fresh amniotic fluid is a rapid and inexpensive way to determine fetal maturity. All samples with values of less than 0.15 must, however, also be tested for their L/S ratio since some of the infants with these values may also be mature.", "PMID": 453289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10516", "title": "Antepartum fetal testing. I. The oxytocin challenge test.", "content": "Two hundred seventy-eight high-risk patients were managed by a comprehensive assessment of the anatomic, biochemical, and functional environment of the fetoplacental unit utilizing predetermined guidelines. Decisions to terminate pregnancy were reserved for patients who demonstrated a positive OCT. Perinatal outcome in patients with positive OCT's was significantly worse than in patients who did not have a positive OCT. Patients with suspicious OCT's frequently had positive OCT's and were more likely to bear growth-retarded infants, whereas negative OCT's in general were associated with a favorable outcome. Correlation of estriol excretion with the OCT and perinatal outcome was inconsistent. There were a total of four prenatal deaths, all of which were considered unpreventable.", "contents": "Antepartum fetal testing. I. The oxytocin challenge test. Two hundred seventy-eight high-risk patients were managed by a comprehensive assessment of the anatomic, biochemical, and functional environment of the fetoplacental unit utilizing predetermined guidelines. Decisions to terminate pregnancy were reserved for patients who demonstrated a positive OCT. Perinatal outcome in patients with positive OCT's was significantly worse than in patients who did not have a positive OCT. Patients with suspicious OCT's frequently had positive OCT's and were more likely to bear growth-retarded infants, whereas negative OCT's in general were associated with a favorable outcome. Correlation of estriol excretion with the OCT and perinatal outcome was inconsistent. There were a total of four prenatal deaths, all of which were considered unpreventable.", "PMID": 453290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10517", "title": "Antepartum fetal testing. II. The acceleration/constant ratio: a nonstress test.", "content": "For a period of one-half hour of undisturbed fetal monitoring, periodic changes of the FHR in response to spontaneous fetal movements (FM's) were recorded. FM's in patients who subsequently had positive OCT's were less likely to show accelerations (p = 0.001) and more likely to show variable decelerations (p = less than 0.001) and no change (p = less than 0.001) in the FHR when compared with patients who did not have a positive OCT. A ratio between the number of FM's associated with accelerations and the sum of FM's associated with no change and decelerations was defined as the acceleration/constant (A/C) ratio. The outcome in patients who exhibited reactive tests (i.e., A/C ratio greater than 1) was more favorable than the outcome in patients with nonreactive tests (i.e., A/C ratio less than or equal to 1). Patients with positive OCT's universally showed nonreactive tests, whereas patients with false positive OCT's were more likely to have reactive tests. Evidence is presented to suggest that the A/C ratio is more predictive of the intrauterine environment than the OCT.", "contents": "Antepartum fetal testing. II. The acceleration/constant ratio: a nonstress test. For a period of one-half hour of undisturbed fetal monitoring, periodic changes of the FHR in response to spontaneous fetal movements (FM's) were recorded. FM's in patients who subsequently had positive OCT's were less likely to show accelerations (p = 0.001) and more likely to show variable decelerations (p = less than 0.001) and no change (p = less than 0.001) in the FHR when compared with patients who did not have a positive OCT. A ratio between the number of FM's associated with accelerations and the sum of FM's associated with no change and decelerations was defined as the acceleration/constant (A/C) ratio. The outcome in patients who exhibited reactive tests (i.e., A/C ratio greater than 1) was more favorable than the outcome in patients with nonreactive tests (i.e., A/C ratio less than or equal to 1). Patients with positive OCT's universally showed nonreactive tests, whereas patients with false positive OCT's were more likely to have reactive tests. Evidence is presented to suggest that the A/C ratio is more predictive of the intrauterine environment than the OCT.", "PMID": 453291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10518", "title": "Fetal breathing movements in uncomplicated pregnancies. I. Relationship to gestational age.", "content": "Fetal breathing movements occur in uncomplicated gestations. The relationship of fetal breathing movements recorded in 30 min sessions to gestational age and blood glucose levels is described. A total of 142 recording sessions were obtained from 45 gravid women with uncomplicated pregnancies from 24 to 41 weeks' gestation. There was a significant increase in the proportion of time spent in fetal breathing as gestational age increased. Glucose levels in a normal range (70 to 120 mg/100 ml) at the time of the recording sessions showed no correlation with the proportion of fetal breathing time.", "contents": "Fetal breathing movements in uncomplicated pregnancies. I. Relationship to gestational age. Fetal breathing movements occur in uncomplicated gestations. The relationship of fetal breathing movements recorded in 30 min sessions to gestational age and blood glucose levels is described. A total of 142 recording sessions were obtained from 45 gravid women with uncomplicated pregnancies from 24 to 41 weeks' gestation. There was a significant increase in the proportion of time spent in fetal breathing as gestational age increased. Glucose levels in a normal range (70 to 120 mg/100 ml) at the time of the recording sessions showed no correlation with the proportion of fetal breathing time.", "PMID": 453292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10519", "title": "Prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease: studies on the reliability of hexosaminidase levels in amniotic fluid.", "content": "Measurement of hexosaminidase A activity in amniotic fluid was found to be a reliable diagnostic test in the prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease. Including normal control specimens, analysis of 39 amniotic fluid samples have correctly predicted the condition of the fetus or, in pregnancies not yet come to term, have been in agreement with results from cultured cell extracts. In each case where both fluid and cultured cell extracts were analyzed, the results were in agreement. Analysis were performed by means of Cellogel, starch gel electrophoresis, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, or heat inactivation.", "contents": "Prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease: studies on the reliability of hexosaminidase levels in amniotic fluid. Measurement of hexosaminidase A activity in amniotic fluid was found to be a reliable diagnostic test in the prenatal diagnosis of Tay-Sachs disease. Including normal control specimens, analysis of 39 amniotic fluid samples have correctly predicted the condition of the fetus or, in pregnancies not yet come to term, have been in agreement with results from cultured cell extracts. In each case where both fluid and cultured cell extracts were analyzed, the results were in agreement. Analysis were performed by means of Cellogel, starch gel electrophoresis, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, or heat inactivation.", "PMID": 453293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10520", "title": "Correlation between retinal and pelvic vascular status: a determinant factor in patients undergoing pelvic irradiation for gynecologic malignancy.", "content": "The degree of arteriolar sclerosis in pelvic vessels has previously been shown to be related to the incidence of radiation-related enteric and genitourinary injury. Retinal vessel changes were compared to pelvic vascular changes in 48 patients, half of whom were either diabetic or hypertensive. There was an absolute correlation between retinal vessel changes and bowel or cervicovaginal vessel changes in 74% of the cases, and only one patient had a marked (more than one grade) discrepancy between retinal and pelvic vascular status. The findings of this investigation suggest that funduscopic examination of the retina can provide useful information concerning the extent of vascular disease in structures normally present in the field of pelvic irradiation.", "contents": "Correlation between retinal and pelvic vascular status: a determinant factor in patients undergoing pelvic irradiation for gynecologic malignancy. The degree of arteriolar sclerosis in pelvic vessels has previously been shown to be related to the incidence of radiation-related enteric and genitourinary injury. Retinal vessel changes were compared to pelvic vascular changes in 48 patients, half of whom were either diabetic or hypertensive. There was an absolute correlation between retinal vessel changes and bowel or cervicovaginal vessel changes in 74% of the cases, and only one patient had a marked (more than one grade) discrepancy between retinal and pelvic vascular status. The findings of this investigation suggest that funduscopic examination of the retina can provide useful information concerning the extent of vascular disease in structures normally present in the field of pelvic irradiation.", "PMID": 453294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10521", "title": "Uterine leiomyosarcoma.", "content": "A series of uterine leiomyosarcomas was reviewed in an attempt to assign prognostic significance to clinical and pathologic features. Extension of the sarcoma at the time of initial diagnosis was associated with a dismal outcome; no patient with disease beyond the confines of the uterus survived. Histologic grade was a useful prognostic feature, although low-grade sarcoma can be associated with metastases. Mitotic count was also useful in prognosis, although it did not correlate as well with clinical outcome as did histologic grade. There was no number of mitoses below which the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was excluded.", "contents": "Uterine leiomyosarcoma. A series of uterine leiomyosarcomas was reviewed in an attempt to assign prognostic significance to clinical and pathologic features. Extension of the sarcoma at the time of initial diagnosis was associated with a dismal outcome; no patient with disease beyond the confines of the uterus survived. Histologic grade was a useful prognostic feature, although low-grade sarcoma can be associated with metastases. Mitotic count was also useful in prognosis, although it did not correlate as well with clinical outcome as did histologic grade. There was no number of mitoses below which the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was excluded.", "PMID": 453295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10522", "title": "Further observations on the effect of topical progesterone on vulvar disease.", "content": "Follow-up studies have confirmed the beneficial effect of topical progesterone in the treatment of vulvar dystrophy, whether of the atrophic, hypertrophic or mixed variety, in both postmenopausal and premenarchal women. If pruritus is a major symptom, topical corticosteroids should be alternated with the progesterone preparation in order to obtain maximum results. Topical progesterone was also found to be useful in the treatment of labial agglutination in children.", "contents": "Further observations on the effect of topical progesterone on vulvar disease. Follow-up studies have confirmed the beneficial effect of topical progesterone in the treatment of vulvar dystrophy, whether of the atrophic, hypertrophic or mixed variety, in both postmenopausal and premenarchal women. If pruritus is a major symptom, topical corticosteroids should be alternated with the progesterone preparation in order to obtain maximum results. Topical progesterone was also found to be useful in the treatment of labial agglutination in children.", "PMID": 453296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10523", "title": "Comparison of three different models of the copper T intrauterine contraceptive device.", "content": "A random sequential comparative study of three models of the Copper T intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) was undertaken in 1,792 women. For 7 months, the TCu 300 and TCu 220C were randomly inserted, and then the TCu 380A and 220C were randomly inserted for the next 12 months. The log-risk method of life-table analysis of event rates was performed at the end of each of the first 3 years of use of each device. The TCu 380A had the lowest pregnancy rate during each year of use, although the difference was not significant. At the end of each of the first 2 years, the TCu 300 was removed significantly less than the TCu 220C and TCu 380A for bleeding and pain. At the end of three years, the rates of removal for bleeding and pain for the TCu 380A and TCu 300 were similar and lower than that for the TCu 220C, but the overall difference was not significant. There were no differences among the devices for any other relevant use-related reasons. The TCu 380A was removed for other medical reasons significantly more frequently than the other devices at the end of 2 and 3 years. Adjusting for parity did not alter the results. The findings of this study suggest that the copper sleeves along the horizontal arms together with copper wire on the vertical arm in the TCu 380A model provide greater protection against intrauterine pregnancy, whereas the copper sleeves along the vertical arm as in the TCu 220C caused increased removals for bleeding and pain. The TCu 380A should be studied in a larger number of patients for a longer period of time to determine its clinical effectiveness. It may become the IUD of choice for all women irrespective of parity.", "contents": "Comparison of three different models of the copper T intrauterine contraceptive device. A random sequential comparative study of three models of the Copper T intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) was undertaken in 1,792 women. For 7 months, the TCu 300 and TCu 220C were randomly inserted, and then the TCu 380A and 220C were randomly inserted for the next 12 months. The log-risk method of life-table analysis of event rates was performed at the end of each of the first 3 years of use of each device. The TCu 380A had the lowest pregnancy rate during each year of use, although the difference was not significant. At the end of each of the first 2 years, the TCu 300 was removed significantly less than the TCu 220C and TCu 380A for bleeding and pain. At the end of three years, the rates of removal for bleeding and pain for the TCu 380A and TCu 300 were similar and lower than that for the TCu 220C, but the overall difference was not significant. There were no differences among the devices for any other relevant use-related reasons. The TCu 380A was removed for other medical reasons significantly more frequently than the other devices at the end of 2 and 3 years. Adjusting for parity did not alter the results. The findings of this study suggest that the copper sleeves along the horizontal arms together with copper wire on the vertical arm in the TCu 380A model provide greater protection against intrauterine pregnancy, whereas the copper sleeves along the vertical arm as in the TCu 220C caused increased removals for bleeding and pain. The TCu 380A should be studied in a larger number of patients for a longer period of time to determine its clinical effectiveness. It may become the IUD of choice for all women irrespective of parity.", "PMID": 453297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10524", "title": "Naproxen sodium in uterine pain following intrauterine contraceptive device insertion.", "content": "In a double-blind parallel trial, repeated doses of naproxen sodium (550 mg initially, followed by 275 mg every 6 hours as needed) and placebo were administered to a group of intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) users in whom dysmenorrhea and premenstrual uterine pain developed or increased following the insertion of the IUD. Seventeen subjects were treated with naproxen sodium and 16 received placebo. The study covered three episodes of uterine pain and/or cramping. Efficacy of pain relief was judged by: (1) the overall relief which the patients experienced during the treatment and (2) the changes in the pain intensity (measured on a 6 point scale). By both these criteria, naproxen sodium was statistically significantly superior to placebo (p = 0.02); consequently, naproxen sodium appears to offer a new treatment modality for pain associated with IUD usage.", "contents": "Naproxen sodium in uterine pain following intrauterine contraceptive device insertion. In a double-blind parallel trial, repeated doses of naproxen sodium (550 mg initially, followed by 275 mg every 6 hours as needed) and placebo were administered to a group of intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) users in whom dysmenorrhea and premenstrual uterine pain developed or increased following the insertion of the IUD. Seventeen subjects were treated with naproxen sodium and 16 received placebo. The study covered three episodes of uterine pain and/or cramping. Efficacy of pain relief was judged by: (1) the overall relief which the patients experienced during the treatment and (2) the changes in the pain intensity (measured on a 6 point scale). By both these criteria, naproxen sodium was statistically significantly superior to placebo (p = 0.02); consequently, naproxen sodium appears to offer a new treatment modality for pain associated with IUD usage.", "PMID": 453298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10525", "title": "Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in tissues of the human female reproductive tract.", "content": "Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a known potent hypotensive and vasodilatory agent. Studies were performed to determine the possible role of VIP in the human menstrual cycle in 44 patients in the reproductive age group, some of whom were using oral contraceptives, three pregnant patients, and four postmenopausal patients. No significant relationship between VIP and menstrual cycle phase was found.", "contents": "Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in tissues of the human female reproductive tract. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a known potent hypotensive and vasodilatory agent. Studies were performed to determine the possible role of VIP in the human menstrual cycle in 44 patients in the reproductive age group, some of whom were using oral contraceptives, three pregnant patients, and four postmenopausal patients. No significant relationship between VIP and menstrual cycle phase was found.", "PMID": 453299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10526", "title": "Survival rates after enucleation of eyes with malignant melanoma.", "content": "We investigated the rates of mortality for several types of malignant melanomas for evidence that surgery accelerates metastasis. Additionally, we reanalyzed uveal melanoma survival rates from the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Our computations showed higher death rates in years two to five after diagnosis than in years one or six to ten. The same pattern of a peak mortality in the early years after diagnosis and lower rates six to ten years thereafter was seen in all tumor types studied. Our analysis of survival rates produced no evidence to alter the existing pattern of treatment for malignant melanoma of the uvea.", "contents": "Survival rates after enucleation of eyes with malignant melanoma. We investigated the rates of mortality for several types of malignant melanomas for evidence that surgery accelerates metastasis. Additionally, we reanalyzed uveal melanoma survival rates from the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Our computations showed higher death rates in years two to five after diagnosis than in years one or six to ten. The same pattern of a peak mortality in the early years after diagnosis and lower rates six to ten years thereafter was seen in all tumor types studied. Our analysis of survival rates produced no evidence to alter the existing pattern of treatment for malignant melanoma of the uvea.", "PMID": 453304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10527", "title": "Recurrent orbital and metastatic melanoma in a patient undergoing previous glaucoma surgery.", "content": "A 61-year-old woman had unilateral acute angle-closure glaucoma and subsequently underwent a Scheie filtering operation. After a two-week interval, a large choroidal and ciliary body melanoma in the glaucomatous eye was found. No evidence of metastatic disease was found and the eye was enucleated. Histopathologic sections did not show extrascleral extension. Two and one-half years later the patient developed local orbital recurrence of the melanoma and fatal metastatic disease. We hypothesized a possible causal relationship between the filtering surgery and the local and systemic recurrence of the tumor.", "contents": "Recurrent orbital and metastatic melanoma in a patient undergoing previous glaucoma surgery. A 61-year-old woman had unilateral acute angle-closure glaucoma and subsequently underwent a Scheie filtering operation. After a two-week interval, a large choroidal and ciliary body melanoma in the glaucomatous eye was found. No evidence of metastatic disease was found and the eye was enucleated. Histopathologic sections did not show extrascleral extension. Two and one-half years later the patient developed local orbital recurrence of the melanoma and fatal metastatic disease. We hypothesized a possible causal relationship between the filtering surgery and the local and systemic recurrence of the tumor.", "PMID": 453305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10528", "title": "Comparison of radioactive phosphorus (32P) uptake test in comparable sized choroidal melanomas and hemangiomas.", "content": "We compared 19 choroidal hemangiomas and 21 choroidal melanomas of comparable size as to the percent of radioactive phosphorus 32P uptake. The results were significantly lower in choroidal hemangiomas than in comparable sized melanomas.", "contents": "Comparison of radioactive phosphorus (32P) uptake test in comparable sized choroidal melanomas and hemangiomas. We compared 19 choroidal hemangiomas and 21 choroidal melanomas of comparable size as to the percent of radioactive phosphorus 32P uptake. The results were significantly lower in choroidal hemangiomas than in comparable sized melanomas.", "PMID": 453306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10529", "title": "The ultrasonographic and radiologic features of a histologically proven case of alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the orbit.", "content": "An 18-year-old woman had a rapidly progressive proptosis, vascular congestion, and orbital pain. Ultrasonographic and radiologic tests supported the diagnosis of a solid vascularized mass that proved histologically to be an alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the orbit. Uncertainty as to the histogenesis of alveolar soft-part sarcoma still exists, but prognosis for patient survival is poor.", "contents": "The ultrasonographic and radiologic features of a histologically proven case of alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the orbit. An 18-year-old woman had a rapidly progressive proptosis, vascular congestion, and orbital pain. Ultrasonographic and radiologic tests supported the diagnosis of a solid vascularized mass that proved histologically to be an alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the orbit. Uncertainty as to the histogenesis of alveolar soft-part sarcoma still exists, but prognosis for patient survival is poor.", "PMID": 453307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10530", "title": "Treatment of symptomatic retinal breaks.", "content": "Forty-three patients with symptomatic retinal breaks were treated with photocoagulation and a comparable group of 43 patients were treated with cryopexy. All patients had either a vitreous hemorrhage, or photopsia and floaters. Most of the breaks were of the horseshoe type. Of the patient eyes, 14% (six patients) in both groups developed new retinal tears without detachment during the long term postoperative observation. The new breaks were treated with the method used for the original breaks, and no scleral surgery was necessary. The incidence of retinal detachment was 7% in patients treated with photocoagulation and 11.6% in patients with cryocoagulation, but two cases that developed retinal detachment arising from new tears years after the initial procedure were included.", "contents": "Treatment of symptomatic retinal breaks. Forty-three patients with symptomatic retinal breaks were treated with photocoagulation and a comparable group of 43 patients were treated with cryopexy. All patients had either a vitreous hemorrhage, or photopsia and floaters. Most of the breaks were of the horseshoe type. Of the patient eyes, 14% (six patients) in both groups developed new retinal tears without detachment during the long term postoperative observation. The new breaks were treated with the method used for the original breaks, and no scleral surgery was necessary. The incidence of retinal detachment was 7% in patients treated with photocoagulation and 11.6% in patients with cryocoagulation, but two cases that developed retinal detachment arising from new tears years after the initial procedure were included.", "PMID": 453308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10531", "title": "The autosomal dominant syndrome of progressive optic atrophy and congenital deafness.", "content": "Four members of a family had the heriditary syndrome of dominantly inherited progressive optic atrophy and congenital sensorineural deafness. Hearing evaluations revealed that two members had a potentially treatable form of deafness.", "contents": "The autosomal dominant syndrome of progressive optic atrophy and congenital deafness. Four members of a family had the heriditary syndrome of dominantly inherited progressive optic atrophy and congenital sensorineural deafness. Hearing evaluations revealed that two members had a potentially treatable form of deafness.", "PMID": 453309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10532", "title": "Frozen section control in the surgery of basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid.", "content": "Two groups of patients, 37 with primary basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid and 16 with basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid previously treated by other physicians were reviewed. All of the tumors were excised with at least 3 to 4 mm of normal-appearing tissue at each margin of resection. All of the excised specimens were submitted for frozen section studies of the margins. A total of 20 (54.04%) of the previously untreated tumors and eight of the previously treated tumors had at least one margin involved with tumor cells. Repeated excisions under frozen section control were done until all of the margins were free of tumor cells. To date, none of the patients treated in this manner had a recurrence of the tumor.", "contents": "Frozen section control in the surgery of basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid. Two groups of patients, 37 with primary basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid and 16 with basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid previously treated by other physicians were reviewed. All of the tumors were excised with at least 3 to 4 mm of normal-appearing tissue at each margin of resection. All of the excised specimens were submitted for frozen section studies of the margins. A total of 20 (54.04%) of the previously untreated tumors and eight of the previously treated tumors had at least one margin involved with tumor cells. Repeated excisions under frozen section control were done until all of the margins were free of tumor cells. To date, none of the patients treated in this manner had a recurrence of the tumor.", "PMID": 453310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10533", "title": "Inverted follicular keratosis.", "content": "We reviewed 17 cases of inverted follicular keratosis. The median age of the patients at the time of surgery was 69 years. Follow-up in 14 cases showed no recurrences of inverted follicular keratosis, which is a benign skin lesion, often mistaken clinically and pathologically for a malignancy. Inverted follicular keratosis is characterized histologically by the presence of squamous eddies, acantholysis, acanthosis, and hyperkeratosis.", "contents": "Inverted follicular keratosis. We reviewed 17 cases of inverted follicular keratosis. The median age of the patients at the time of surgery was 69 years. Follow-up in 14 cases showed no recurrences of inverted follicular keratosis, which is a benign skin lesion, often mistaken clinically and pathologically for a malignancy. Inverted follicular keratosis is characterized histologically by the presence of squamous eddies, acantholysis, acanthosis, and hyperkeratosis.", "PMID": 453311} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10534", "title": "Contraindication to the use of ocular phenylephrine in idiopathic orthostatic hypotension.", "content": "We studied the effect of topical ocular application of 2.5% phenylephrine ophthalmic solution in patients with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension and in normal subjects. The normal subjects had no pressor effect to the drug. However, the patients with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension, had a marked pressor response. The maximal pressor response in the four patients averaged 44/27 mm Hg. The usual 10% phenylephrine used in practice could have delivered a fourfold greater amount of drug, and presumably would have led to dangerously high blood pressure responses.", "contents": "Contraindication to the use of ocular phenylephrine in idiopathic orthostatic hypotension. We studied the effect of topical ocular application of 2.5% phenylephrine ophthalmic solution in patients with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension and in normal subjects. The normal subjects had no pressor effect to the drug. However, the patients with idiopathic orthostatic hypotension, had a marked pressor response. The maximal pressor response in the four patients averaged 44/27 mm Hg. The usual 10% phenylephrine used in practice could have delivered a fourfold greater amount of drug, and presumably would have led to dangerously high blood pressure responses.", "PMID": 453312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10535", "title": "Acute myocardial infarction after fluorescein angiography.", "content": "A 68-year-old man with a history of previous myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular disease had an acute myocardial infarction 30 minutes after the injection of intravenous fluorescein for fundus angiography. The situational stress or phenylephrine dilating drops could have contributed to the complication.", "contents": "Acute myocardial infarction after fluorescein angiography. A 68-year-old man with a history of previous myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular disease had an acute myocardial infarction 30 minutes after the injection of intravenous fluorescein for fundus angiography. The situational stress or phenylephrine dilating drops could have contributed to the complication.", "PMID": 453313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10536", "title": "Vitreoretinal dissection instruments.", "content": "We developed and evaluated clinically a series of three vitreoretinal dissection instruments with a constant-diameter shaft and various tip designs including a 90-degree hooked tip, a 130-degree hooked tip, and a blunt-tip right-angle spatula. The instruments, manufactured from a titanium alloy, are lightweight and glare resistant. We have used these instruments interchangeably with other vitreous surgery instruments introduced through a 20-gauge sclerotomy. They facilitate delicate manipulations associated with separation of epiretinal membranes from the inner retinal surface.", "contents": "Vitreoretinal dissection instruments. We developed and evaluated clinically a series of three vitreoretinal dissection instruments with a constant-diameter shaft and various tip designs including a 90-degree hooked tip, a 130-degree hooked tip, and a blunt-tip right-angle spatula. The instruments, manufactured from a titanium alloy, are lightweight and glare resistant. We have used these instruments interchangeably with other vitreous surgery instruments introduced through a 20-gauge sclerotomy. They facilitate delicate manipulations associated with separation of epiretinal membranes from the inner retinal surface.", "PMID": 453314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10537", "title": "Peroxisomes of rat peritoneal macrophages during phagocytosis.", "content": "The peroxisomes of resident macrophages in the rat peritoneal cavity were examined during the phagocytosis of latex microbeads, employing the akaline diaminobenzidine (DAB) technique. Peroxisomes generally were located in close proximity to phagosomes and were often observed in a process of apparent fusion with phagosomes. Cytochemical evidence was also obtained for discharge of catalase from peroxisomes to phagosomes. The profiles indicating fusion were observed after 10 minutes of incubation with microbeads. The number of peroxisomes was increased in macrophage profiles examined 30 minutes after exposure to microbeads. Acid phosphatase was localized in small vesicles that were distinct from peroxisomes, and peroxidase was not demonstrable in peroxisomes. A method for ultrastructural localization of periodate reactive complex carbohydrate demonstrated glycoproteins in numerous small vesicles or granules, some of which possibly represented peroxisomers. The possible function of peroxisomes during phagocytosis in rat peritoneal macrophages is considered.", "contents": "Peroxisomes of rat peritoneal macrophages during phagocytosis. The peroxisomes of resident macrophages in the rat peritoneal cavity were examined during the phagocytosis of latex microbeads, employing the akaline diaminobenzidine (DAB) technique. Peroxisomes generally were located in close proximity to phagosomes and were often observed in a process of apparent fusion with phagosomes. Cytochemical evidence was also obtained for discharge of catalase from peroxisomes to phagosomes. The profiles indicating fusion were observed after 10 minutes of incubation with microbeads. The number of peroxisomes was increased in macrophage profiles examined 30 minutes after exposure to microbeads. Acid phosphatase was localized in small vesicles that were distinct from peroxisomes, and peroxidase was not demonstrable in peroxisomes. A method for ultrastructural localization of periodate reactive complex carbohydrate demonstrated glycoproteins in numerous small vesicles or granules, some of which possibly represented peroxisomers. The possible function of peroxisomes during phagocytosis in rat peritoneal macrophages is considered.", "PMID": 453318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10538", "title": "Stereologic analysis of dystrophic chicken muscle.", "content": "Stereologic methods have been used to estimate the volume and surface densities of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and T tubules of normal and dystrophic chicken pectoralis muscle fibers. The surface and volume densities of the T system in dystrophic muscle fibers showed large increases compared with normal muscle fibers; the surface and volume densities of the SR showed large decreases. In addition, the SR and T system in dystrophic fibers undergo changes in shape. The tubules of the free SR become much narrower; the T system becomes dilated and vesiculated. Dystrophic fibers, on the average, are much larger than normal but maintain the same sarcolemmal surface/fiber volume ratio as normal fibers. Alterations in the surface and volume densities of the dystrophic sarcotubular system may account for some of the altered contractile properties of these muscles.", "contents": "Stereologic analysis of dystrophic chicken muscle. Stereologic methods have been used to estimate the volume and surface densities of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and T tubules of normal and dystrophic chicken pectoralis muscle fibers. The surface and volume densities of the T system in dystrophic muscle fibers showed large increases compared with normal muscle fibers; the surface and volume densities of the SR showed large decreases. In addition, the SR and T system in dystrophic fibers undergo changes in shape. The tubules of the free SR become much narrower; the T system becomes dilated and vesiculated. Dystrophic fibers, on the average, are much larger than normal but maintain the same sarcolemmal surface/fiber volume ratio as normal fibers. Alterations in the surface and volume densities of the dystrophic sarcotubular system may account for some of the altered contractile properties of these muscles.", "PMID": 453319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10539", "title": "Adrenal cortex in retired breeder Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) and golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus).", "content": "Alterations occur predominantly in cells of the zona reticularis in retired breeder Mongllian gerbils and golden hamsters. In gerbils, the size and number of lipid droplets increased and numerous large lipid-lysosomal complexes were observed in zona reticularis parenchymal cells or in macrophages, which were more numerous than in younger animals. Abundant lipofuchsin pigment was observed in zona reticularis parenchymal cells, and mitochondria contained electron-opaque inclusions. In the hamster, lipid droplets were present in inner zona reticularis cells and there was an increased amount of pigment within macrophages. Some of the alterations in gerbils and hamsters may at least in part reflect a stimulation of zona reticularis cells in retired breeders, attributable to increased prolactin secretion.", "contents": "Adrenal cortex in retired breeder Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) and golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). Alterations occur predominantly in cells of the zona reticularis in retired breeder Mongllian gerbils and golden hamsters. In gerbils, the size and number of lipid droplets increased and numerous large lipid-lysosomal complexes were observed in zona reticularis parenchymal cells or in macrophages, which were more numerous than in younger animals. Abundant lipofuchsin pigment was observed in zona reticularis parenchymal cells, and mitochondria contained electron-opaque inclusions. In the hamster, lipid droplets were present in inner zona reticularis cells and there was an increased amount of pigment within macrophages. Some of the alterations in gerbils and hamsters may at least in part reflect a stimulation of zona reticularis cells in retired breeders, attributable to increased prolactin secretion.", "PMID": 453320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10540", "title": "Morphologic alterations in canine marrow of long-term survivors after 1200 R whole-body x-irradiation and autologous blood leukocyte engraftment.", "content": "The marrow matrix of total-body x-irradiated dogs (1200 R midline dose) was able to support effective hemopoiesis for several hundred days if the animals were transfused with their own mononuclear leukocytes collected from the blood prior to irradiation and preserved at ultralow temperatures. However, a lesion developed in the marrow, consisting of a fibrosis originating in conjunction with or from the endosteum. The fibrotic tissue substantially reduced the available marrow space in dogs with advanced lesions. The number of autologous, cryopreserved mononuclear leukocytes transfused ranged from 0.32 X 10(9) to 1.63 X 10(9)/kg body weight. The observation period extended to a maximum of 898 days after irradiation.", "contents": "Morphologic alterations in canine marrow of long-term survivors after 1200 R whole-body x-irradiation and autologous blood leukocyte engraftment. The marrow matrix of total-body x-irradiated dogs (1200 R midline dose) was able to support effective hemopoiesis for several hundred days if the animals were transfused with their own mononuclear leukocytes collected from the blood prior to irradiation and preserved at ultralow temperatures. However, a lesion developed in the marrow, consisting of a fibrosis originating in conjunction with or from the endosteum. The fibrotic tissue substantially reduced the available marrow space in dogs with advanced lesions. The number of autologous, cryopreserved mononuclear leukocytes transfused ranged from 0.32 X 10(9) to 1.63 X 10(9)/kg body weight. The observation period extended to a maximum of 898 days after irradiation.", "PMID": 453321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10541", "title": "Morphology and pathogenesis of adrenal cysts.", "content": "Adrenal cysts represent a rare condition (approximately 250 cases have been reported). We report two additional cases: the first involved a huge lesion removed surgically and thoroughly studied preoperatively; the second was an incidental autopsy finding. Detailed ultrastructural studies have been made of both cases. We think that the basic cell of origin of the cyst is an endothelial cell lining lymphatic channels. We speculate that the pseudocysts, which have been described as having a fibrous lining, probably were at one time also lymphendothelial but, perhaps due to trauma or repeated bleeding, the major portion of the endothelial lining became replaced by collagen. The primary and secondary cystic malignancies and cases of cysts due to parasites should be classified separately from the adrenal cysts of lymphendothelial origin which probably represent a benign tumor-like overgrowth.", "contents": "Morphology and pathogenesis of adrenal cysts. Adrenal cysts represent a rare condition (approximately 250 cases have been reported). We report two additional cases: the first involved a huge lesion removed surgically and thoroughly studied preoperatively; the second was an incidental autopsy finding. Detailed ultrastructural studies have been made of both cases. We think that the basic cell of origin of the cyst is an endothelial cell lining lymphatic channels. We speculate that the pseudocysts, which have been described as having a fibrous lining, probably were at one time also lymphendothelial but, perhaps due to trauma or repeated bleeding, the major portion of the endothelial lining became replaced by collagen. The primary and secondary cystic malignancies and cases of cysts due to parasites should be classified separately from the adrenal cysts of lymphendothelial origin which probably represent a benign tumor-like overgrowth.", "PMID": 453322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10542", "title": "Neutrophil aggregation and degranulation. Effect of arachidonic acid.", "content": "In response to aggregating and degranulating stimuli, platelets metabolize endogenous arachidonic acid to bioactive derivatives. These derivatives can stimulate platelets to degranulate and aggregate and, therefore, may be mediators of the platelet response. Because exogenous arachidonic acid also stimulates platelets to degranulate, aggregate, and form these mediators, we examined the effect of adding arachidonic acid to purified human neutrophil suspensions. Micromolar concentrations of arachidonic acid stimulated neutrophils to aggregate but not to degranulate. Cytochalasin B, a potentiator of neutrophil responses to chemotactic factors, also potentiated the arachidonic-acid-induced aggregation response; 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid, an inhibitor of arachidonic acid metabolism, blocked this response. Aggregation of neutrophils, was not stimulated by several fatty acids with structural similarity to arachidonic acid. These results suggest that metabolic derivatives of arachidonic acid may be active in stimulating certain neutrophil responses. The role of these derivatives in mediating neutrophil responses to various stimuli needs to be examined.", "contents": "Neutrophil aggregation and degranulation. Effect of arachidonic acid. In response to aggregating and degranulating stimuli, platelets metabolize endogenous arachidonic acid to bioactive derivatives. These derivatives can stimulate platelets to degranulate and aggregate and, therefore, may be mediators of the platelet response. Because exogenous arachidonic acid also stimulates platelets to degranulate, aggregate, and form these mediators, we examined the effect of adding arachidonic acid to purified human neutrophil suspensions. Micromolar concentrations of arachidonic acid stimulated neutrophils to aggregate but not to degranulate. Cytochalasin B, a potentiator of neutrophil responses to chemotactic factors, also potentiated the arachidonic-acid-induced aggregation response; 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid, an inhibitor of arachidonic acid metabolism, blocked this response. Aggregation of neutrophils, was not stimulated by several fatty acids with structural similarity to arachidonic acid. These results suggest that metabolic derivatives of arachidonic acid may be active in stimulating certain neutrophil responses. The role of these derivatives in mediating neutrophil responses to various stimuli needs to be examined.", "PMID": 453323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10543", "title": "Ultrastructural studies of the gray platelet syndrome.", "content": "The gray platelet syndrome (GPS) is a rare inherited disorder in which peripheral blood platelets are relatively large, vacuolated, and almost devoid of cytoplasmic granulation. In the present study we have evaluated the ultrastructure and cytochemistry of platelets from 2 patients with the GPS to determine precisely which organelles are missing from their cells. The findings indicate that gray platelets contain normal numbers of mitochondria, dense bodies, peroxisomes, and lysosomes but specifically lack alpha-granules. Preliminary studies of megakaryocytes from 1 of the 2 patients suggest that the defect in granule formation may lie at the level of the Golgi zone.", "contents": "Ultrastructural studies of the gray platelet syndrome. The gray platelet syndrome (GPS) is a rare inherited disorder in which peripheral blood platelets are relatively large, vacuolated, and almost devoid of cytoplasmic granulation. In the present study we have evaluated the ultrastructure and cytochemistry of platelets from 2 patients with the GPS to determine precisely which organelles are missing from their cells. The findings indicate that gray platelets contain normal numbers of mitochondria, dense bodies, peroxisomes, and lysosomes but specifically lack alpha-granules. Preliminary studies of megakaryocytes from 1 of the 2 patients suggest that the defect in granule formation may lie at the level of the Golgi zone.", "PMID": 453324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10544", "title": "Atrioventricular canal malformation interpreted as secondary to reduced compression upon the developing heart.", "content": "This study was undertaken to evaluate the nature and pathogenesis of malformations of the atrioventricular canal in relation to normal cardiogenesis. Serial histologic sections of normal human embryos and fetuses were made, from which three-dimensional images were reconstructed to show the relationship between the developing heart and its surrounding structures, and the course of development of the atrial septum and atrioventricular valves. Based on these reconstructions and on examination of the hearts of 59 patients with atrioventricular canal malformations, it is suggested that the spectrum of atrioventricular malformations may arise as a result of reduced compression of the developing atria by surrounding structures during embryonic Stages 13 through 18. Comparison of hearts with atrioventricular canal defects with normal embryos indicated that the malformations may be classified as primitive canals, complete canals, or partial canals, corresponding to failure of completion of normal development in Stages 14 through 18. In primitive canal the atrial septum was absent or had only a portion of septum primum. In complete canal both atrial septums were present, but the atrioventricular valve material was not subdivided and the four chambers were in communication. In partial canal, the atrioventricular valve was divided, but atrial and ventricular septal defects and valve clefts were present in varying degrees of severity. It is proposed that the spectrum of cardiac abnormalities which constitutes atrioventricular canal malformations may be understood as arising from varying degrees of lack of normal compression of the developing heart by surrounding structures. (Am J Pathol 95.579-598, 1979)", "contents": "Atrioventricular canal malformation interpreted as secondary to reduced compression upon the developing heart. This study was undertaken to evaluate the nature and pathogenesis of malformations of the atrioventricular canal in relation to normal cardiogenesis. Serial histologic sections of normal human embryos and fetuses were made, from which three-dimensional images were reconstructed to show the relationship between the developing heart and its surrounding structures, and the course of development of the atrial septum and atrioventricular valves. Based on these reconstructions and on examination of the hearts of 59 patients with atrioventricular canal malformations, it is suggested that the spectrum of atrioventricular malformations may arise as a result of reduced compression of the developing atria by surrounding structures during embryonic Stages 13 through 18. Comparison of hearts with atrioventricular canal defects with normal embryos indicated that the malformations may be classified as primitive canals, complete canals, or partial canals, corresponding to failure of completion of normal development in Stages 14 through 18. In primitive canal the atrial septum was absent or had only a portion of septum primum. In complete canal both atrial septums were present, but the atrioventricular valve material was not subdivided and the four chambers were in communication. In partial canal, the atrioventricular valve was divided, but atrial and ventricular septal defects and valve clefts were present in varying degrees of severity. It is proposed that the spectrum of cardiac abnormalities which constitutes atrioventricular canal malformations may be understood as arising from varying degrees of lack of normal compression of the developing heart by surrounding structures. (Am J Pathol 95.579-598, 1979)", "PMID": 453326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10545", "title": "A morphometric study of arterial intimal thickening in kidneys of dialyzed patients.", "content": "Arterial intimal thickening is common in the end-stage kidneys of patients maintained on hemodialysis. We measured the intimal thickening in patients dialyzed for varying periods and in patients with the malignant phase of essential hypertension and with scleroderma-associated renal failure. The ratio of intimal area to medical area in intrarenal arteries was used as a measure of intimal thickening. In the dialysis groups, intimal thickening was relatively constant in arteries of all sizes and correlated with duration of dialysis, particularly in larger arteries. In the malignant hypertension and scleroderma groups, the intimal thickening was greatest in arteries less than 200 mu in diameter and least in those over 500 mu in diameter. There was much less intimal thickening in arteries of all sizes in kidneys of patients with end-stage polycystic disease than in other end-stage kidneys from patients with a similar diastolic blood pressure and similar duration of dialysis. We believe that the intimal thickening in dialyzed patients is probably a disuse type of change and may be related to reduction in the area of the renal microvascular bed.", "contents": "A morphometric study of arterial intimal thickening in kidneys of dialyzed patients. Arterial intimal thickening is common in the end-stage kidneys of patients maintained on hemodialysis. We measured the intimal thickening in patients dialyzed for varying periods and in patients with the malignant phase of essential hypertension and with scleroderma-associated renal failure. The ratio of intimal area to medical area in intrarenal arteries was used as a measure of intimal thickening. In the dialysis groups, intimal thickening was relatively constant in arteries of all sizes and correlated with duration of dialysis, particularly in larger arteries. In the malignant hypertension and scleroderma groups, the intimal thickening was greatest in arteries less than 200 mu in diameter and least in those over 500 mu in diameter. There was much less intimal thickening in arteries of all sizes in kidneys of patients with end-stage polycystic disease than in other end-stage kidneys from patients with a similar diastolic blood pressure and similar duration of dialysis. We believe that the intimal thickening in dialyzed patients is probably a disuse type of change and may be related to reduction in the area of the renal microvascular bed.", "PMID": 453327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10546", "title": "Ultrastructural pathology of ozone-induced experimental parathyroiditis. IV. Biphasic activity in the chief cells of regenerating parathyroid glands.", "content": "Sequential development of electron miscrosopic changes in the rabbit parathyroid gland was monitered during induction of parathyroiditis by 48 hours of ozone 0.75 ppm dosage regimen. By 4 to 7 days, electron microscopy revealed prominence of polyribosomes, rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, secretory granules, microtubules, and frequent infoldings of the plasma membrane. Presumable this was the stage of parathyroid hormone synthesis. Between 14 to 18 days, ultrastructural observations showed dilatation of rough endoplasmic reticulum with continuity with annulate lamellae, disaggregation of polyribosome attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and accumulation of numerous solitary free ribosomes in the cytoplasm. The dilated portion of endoplasmic reticulum contained medium electron-dense granular material, which also appeared between the intercellular spaces. The medium electron-dense material assumed to condensed appearance of basal lamina bordering the intercellular matrix. On the basis of the present observation it was concluded that the second set of ultrastructural changes signify the stage of basal lamina reconstruction. The significance of these changes as reparative responses to the inflammatory stimuli was discussed.", "contents": "Ultrastructural pathology of ozone-induced experimental parathyroiditis. IV. Biphasic activity in the chief cells of regenerating parathyroid glands. Sequential development of electron miscrosopic changes in the rabbit parathyroid gland was monitered during induction of parathyroiditis by 48 hours of ozone 0.75 ppm dosage regimen. By 4 to 7 days, electron microscopy revealed prominence of polyribosomes, rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, secretory granules, microtubules, and frequent infoldings of the plasma membrane. Presumable this was the stage of parathyroid hormone synthesis. Between 14 to 18 days, ultrastructural observations showed dilatation of rough endoplasmic reticulum with continuity with annulate lamellae, disaggregation of polyribosome attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and accumulation of numerous solitary free ribosomes in the cytoplasm. The dilated portion of endoplasmic reticulum contained medium electron-dense granular material, which also appeared between the intercellular spaces. The medium electron-dense material assumed to condensed appearance of basal lamina bordering the intercellular matrix. On the basis of the present observation it was concluded that the second set of ultrastructural changes signify the stage of basal lamina reconstruction. The significance of these changes as reparative responses to the inflammatory stimuli was discussed.", "PMID": 453328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10547", "title": "An autoradiographic study of cellular proliferation in remyelination of the central nervous system.", "content": "The proliferation and origin remyelinating oligodendrocytes was studied by light and electron miscrosopic autoradiography in the superior cerebellar peduncles of mice demyelinated by Cuprizone. In the early phases of demyelination, the cells undergoing mitotic activity were macrophages and astrocytes. In the later phases of demyelination, immature proliferating oligodendrocytes appeared; these differentiated into mature (dark) oligodendrocytes which were responsible for the remyelination of axons seen when animals were again placed on normal diets. The pattern of differentiation recapitulated that seen in developing oligodendrocytes in normal animals. Dark oligodendrocytes did not show mitotic activity. There was no mitotic activity in the subependymal cells around the fourth ventricle adjacent to the superior cerebellar peduncles. This study demonstrates the regenerative capacity of oligodendrocytes and their ability to carry out remeylination in the central nervous system.", "contents": "An autoradiographic study of cellular proliferation in remyelination of the central nervous system. The proliferation and origin remyelinating oligodendrocytes was studied by light and electron miscrosopic autoradiography in the superior cerebellar peduncles of mice demyelinated by Cuprizone. In the early phases of demyelination, the cells undergoing mitotic activity were macrophages and astrocytes. In the later phases of demyelination, immature proliferating oligodendrocytes appeared; these differentiated into mature (dark) oligodendrocytes which were responsible for the remyelination of axons seen when animals were again placed on normal diets. The pattern of differentiation recapitulated that seen in developing oligodendrocytes in normal animals. Dark oligodendrocytes did not show mitotic activity. There was no mitotic activity in the subependymal cells around the fourth ventricle adjacent to the superior cerebellar peduncles. This study demonstrates the regenerative capacity of oligodendrocytes and their ability to carry out remeylination in the central nervous system.", "PMID": 453329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10548", "title": "Quantitative evaluation of the development of the exocrine pancreas in cystic fibrosis and control infants.", "content": "The development of the exocrine pancreas has been determined quantitatively in 31 infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) both with and without meconium ileus and in 29 control infants. In the normal pancreas, the ratio of acinar to connective tissue volume is 0.5 at 32 weeks postconceptional age (PCA) and increases linearly to 2.0 at 52 weeks PGA. In cystic fibrosis infants, with or without meconium ileus, the ration is 0.5 at 35 weeks PCA anddecreases linearly to 0.3 at 52 weeks PCA. The volume of acinar and duct lumens is greater in CF than control infants but is independent of age or acinar volume. The development of the exocrine pancreas in infants with CF with and without meconium ileus diverges from the normal pattern: There is consistent lack of exocrine tissue before or a full-term birth, which persists throghout the age range of this study. CF infants above 42 weeks PCA can be discriminated from controls on the basis of the quantitative assessment of acinar volume.", "contents": "Quantitative evaluation of the development of the exocrine pancreas in cystic fibrosis and control infants. The development of the exocrine pancreas has been determined quantitatively in 31 infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) both with and without meconium ileus and in 29 control infants. In the normal pancreas, the ratio of acinar to connective tissue volume is 0.5 at 32 weeks postconceptional age (PCA) and increases linearly to 2.0 at 52 weeks PGA. In cystic fibrosis infants, with or without meconium ileus, the ration is 0.5 at 35 weeks PCA anddecreases linearly to 0.3 at 52 weeks PCA. The volume of acinar and duct lumens is greater in CF than control infants but is independent of age or acinar volume. The development of the exocrine pancreas in infants with CF with and without meconium ileus diverges from the normal pattern: There is consistent lack of exocrine tissue before or a full-term birth, which persists throghout the age range of this study. CF infants above 42 weeks PCA can be discriminated from controls on the basis of the quantitative assessment of acinar volume.", "PMID": 453330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10549", "title": "Canine granulocytopathy syndrome: an inherited disorder of leukocyte function.", "content": "A disease closely resembling the human neutrophil dysfunction syndromes has been identified in a colony of dogs. The syndrome, referred to as the canine granulocytopathy syndrome, is characterized by recurrent-life-threatening bacterial infections and a greatly shortened life span. The disease is genetically determined, being transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait. The increased susceptibity to pyogenic infections and shortened life span is related to an impairment of leukocyte function at the cellular level. Preparation of neutrophils from affected animals exhibit impaired in vitro killing of Esherichia coli. The defect in bactericidal activity is associated with reduced glucose oxidation by the hexose monophosphate shunt and an increase capacity to reduce nitroblue tetrazolium dye. The data obtained thus far indicate the canine granulocytopathy syndrome will be of considerable value as a model for study of granulocytypathy sydromes in man.", "contents": "Canine granulocytopathy syndrome: an inherited disorder of leukocyte function. A disease closely resembling the human neutrophil dysfunction syndromes has been identified in a colony of dogs. The syndrome, referred to as the canine granulocytopathy syndrome, is characterized by recurrent-life-threatening bacterial infections and a greatly shortened life span. The disease is genetically determined, being transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait. The increased susceptibity to pyogenic infections and shortened life span is related to an impairment of leukocyte function at the cellular level. Preparation of neutrophils from affected animals exhibit impaired in vitro killing of Esherichia coli. The defect in bactericidal activity is associated with reduced glucose oxidation by the hexose monophosphate shunt and an increase capacity to reduce nitroblue tetrazolium dye. The data obtained thus far indicate the canine granulocytopathy syndrome will be of considerable value as a model for study of granulocytypathy sydromes in man.", "PMID": 453331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10550", "title": "Pathology of the stone heart syndrome. Massive myocardial contraction band necrosis and widely patent coronary arteries.", "content": "Among 201 patients dying at some time after cardiac surgery employing cardiopulmonary bypass and studied at autopsy following postmortem coronary arteriography and fixation of the heart in a distended state there were 4 (2%) with the stone heart syndrome. All 4 fo these patients had undergone aortic valve surgery for aortic stenosis employing hypothermic anoxic arrest. At the conclusion of an uncomplicated operation the heart was firm, contracted, prone to fibrillate, and could not sustain the circulation. Pathological study showed widely patent coronary arteries and severe contraction band necrosis of the inner portions of both ventricular walls. The observations here, as in previous studies, suggest that contraction band necrosis may be elicited by a brisk reflow phase following a potentiating phase of anoxic arrest of the myocardium. The stone heart syndrome appears to be simply the manifestations produced by massive contraction band necrosis in a severely hypertrophied heart.", "contents": "Pathology of the stone heart syndrome. Massive myocardial contraction band necrosis and widely patent coronary arteries. Among 201 patients dying at some time after cardiac surgery employing cardiopulmonary bypass and studied at autopsy following postmortem coronary arteriography and fixation of the heart in a distended state there were 4 (2%) with the stone heart syndrome. All 4 fo these patients had undergone aortic valve surgery for aortic stenosis employing hypothermic anoxic arrest. At the conclusion of an uncomplicated operation the heart was firm, contracted, prone to fibrillate, and could not sustain the circulation. Pathological study showed widely patent coronary arteries and severe contraction band necrosis of the inner portions of both ventricular walls. The observations here, as in previous studies, suggest that contraction band necrosis may be elicited by a brisk reflow phase following a potentiating phase of anoxic arrest of the myocardium. The stone heart syndrome appears to be simply the manifestations produced by massive contraction band necrosis in a severely hypertrophied heart.", "PMID": 453332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10551", "title": "The effect of methylmercury on isolated cardiac tissues.", "content": "The effect of methylmercury hydroxide (MMH) on the frequency of spontaneously beating atrial-SA node and on the isometric tension of electrically stimulated left atrial (1 Hz) preparation isolated from rats were investigated. The tissues were also fixed for ultrastructural study at the end of the experiments. We found that MMH, at low doses (0.5 and 2ppm), increased the frequency of contractions and the isometric tension of isolated atria and decreased the isometric tension of isolated papillar muscles, and at higher doses (greater than 2ppm), decreased all the above parameter. Morphologically, there were dilation and swelling of mitochondrial and sarcoplasmic reticulum. Occasionally, deposits of amorphous material in the mitochondria and myofibrillary degeneration of myocardial fibers were noted. It is concluded the MMH has direct effect on intracellular organelles (mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum, and myofibril) of myocardial tissue and induces functional changes of atria and papillary muscles", "contents": "The effect of methylmercury on isolated cardiac tissues. The effect of methylmercury hydroxide (MMH) on the frequency of spontaneously beating atrial-SA node and on the isometric tension of electrically stimulated left atrial (1 Hz) preparation isolated from rats were investigated. The tissues were also fixed for ultrastructural study at the end of the experiments. We found that MMH, at low doses (0.5 and 2ppm), increased the frequency of contractions and the isometric tension of isolated atria and decreased the isometric tension of isolated papillar muscles, and at higher doses (greater than 2ppm), decreased all the above parameter. Morphologically, there were dilation and swelling of mitochondrial and sarcoplasmic reticulum. Occasionally, deposits of amorphous material in the mitochondria and myofibrillary degeneration of myocardial fibers were noted. It is concluded the MMH has direct effect on intracellular organelles (mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum, and myofibril) of myocardial tissue and induces functional changes of atria and papillary muscles", "PMID": 453333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10552", "title": "Comparison of heavy particle with X-irradiation on the hamster lung.", "content": "Important new modalities for cancer therapy are being developed, and one of the most promising is heavy charged particle irradiation. We are currently assessing the effects of 375-MeV/nucleon neon irradiation in the plateau region of ionization compared to 230KVp X-rays on the whole thorax of hamsters. Single dose levels for neon irradiation ranged from 150-1000 rad. Dose levels for X-irradiation ranged from 225-1500 rad. The animals were followed for 1 year after irradiation, and the most useful results emerged, using morphometric methods. One year after irradiation, pulmonary parenchyma and nonparenchyma appear morphometrically unchanged. However, the volume density of pulmonary septums, septal cells, all tissue, connective tissue, and alveolar Type II cells was increased while the volume densities of alveoli, empty alveolar space, and capillary lumens were diminished. Most of these changes were dose dependent not clearly demonstrable until a year after irradiation. The relative biologic effect of neon compared to X-irradiation using this techniques is 1.6-1.8.", "contents": "Comparison of heavy particle with X-irradiation on the hamster lung. Important new modalities for cancer therapy are being developed, and one of the most promising is heavy charged particle irradiation. We are currently assessing the effects of 375-MeV/nucleon neon irradiation in the plateau region of ionization compared to 230KVp X-rays on the whole thorax of hamsters. Single dose levels for neon irradiation ranged from 150-1000 rad. Dose levels for X-irradiation ranged from 225-1500 rad. The animals were followed for 1 year after irradiation, and the most useful results emerged, using morphometric methods. One year after irradiation, pulmonary parenchyma and nonparenchyma appear morphometrically unchanged. However, the volume density of pulmonary septums, septal cells, all tissue, connective tissue, and alveolar Type II cells was increased while the volume densities of alveoli, empty alveolar space, and capillary lumens were diminished. Most of these changes were dose dependent not clearly demonstrable until a year after irradiation. The relative biologic effect of neon compared to X-irradiation using this techniques is 1.6-1.8.", "PMID": 453334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10553", "title": "Dietary induced atherogenesis in swine. Morphology of the intima in prelesion stages.", "content": "Hypercholesterolemia was induced in pigs by feeding a chow diet supplemented with 1.5% cholesterol and 19.5% lard for periods up to 12 weeks. The aortic intima from areas of spontaneously differing permeability to proteins, as demarcated by their uptake of Evans blue dye, was examined using light microscopy and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy to describe the earliest detectable changes in intimal morphology induced by the diet. After 2, 4, and 6 weeks of feeding, cholesterol/lardfed pigs demonstrated monocyte adherence to the endothelium in areas of enhanced permeability (blue areas) in 86% of samples examined, as compared to 52% in areas of lesser permeability (white areas) and 17% in control animals. Similarly, the number of monocytes in the intima was higher in blue areas than in adjacent white areas or blue areas from control animals. After 12 weeks of feeding, all blue areas showed intimal monocytes, with fewer seen in white areas. Aortic endothelial cells in hypercholesterolemic pigs were normal in ultrastructural appearance, except they contained more lysosomes and cytoplasmic filaments than those from control animals. No lesions were observed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, although plasma cholesterol levels were substantially elevated (200-400 mg/dl) at these times. A marked hyper-beta-lipoproteinemia was evident from 4 weeks onward, but no elevation of serum triglycerides was evident at any stage. Plasma phospholipid concentrations increased but not in direct proportion to cholesterol levels. At 12 weeks, foam cell lesions were observed in areas of enhanced permeability but not in adjacent areas of normal permeability. Lesion foam cells appeared to be derived from the monocytes which adhered to and penetrated the endothelium at earlier stages, since no intimal involvement, or lipid engorgement, by medial smooth muscle cells was observed.", "contents": "Dietary induced atherogenesis in swine. Morphology of the intima in prelesion stages. Hypercholesterolemia was induced in pigs by feeding a chow diet supplemented with 1.5% cholesterol and 19.5% lard for periods up to 12 weeks. The aortic intima from areas of spontaneously differing permeability to proteins, as demarcated by their uptake of Evans blue dye, was examined using light microscopy and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy to describe the earliest detectable changes in intimal morphology induced by the diet. After 2, 4, and 6 weeks of feeding, cholesterol/lardfed pigs demonstrated monocyte adherence to the endothelium in areas of enhanced permeability (blue areas) in 86% of samples examined, as compared to 52% in areas of lesser permeability (white areas) and 17% in control animals. Similarly, the number of monocytes in the intima was higher in blue areas than in adjacent white areas or blue areas from control animals. After 12 weeks of feeding, all blue areas showed intimal monocytes, with fewer seen in white areas. Aortic endothelial cells in hypercholesterolemic pigs were normal in ultrastructural appearance, except they contained more lysosomes and cytoplasmic filaments than those from control animals. No lesions were observed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, although plasma cholesterol levels were substantially elevated (200-400 mg/dl) at these times. A marked hyper-beta-lipoproteinemia was evident from 4 weeks onward, but no elevation of serum triglycerides was evident at any stage. Plasma phospholipid concentrations increased but not in direct proportion to cholesterol levels. At 12 weeks, foam cell lesions were observed in areas of enhanced permeability but not in adjacent areas of normal permeability. Lesion foam cells appeared to be derived from the monocytes which adhered to and penetrated the endothelium at earlier stages, since no intimal involvement, or lipid engorgement, by medial smooth muscle cells was observed.", "PMID": 453335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10554", "title": "Neural factors versus hypertrophy in the time course of muscle strength gain.", "content": "The time course of strength gain with respect to the contributions of neural factors and hypertrophy was studied in seven young males and eight females during the course of an 8 week regimen of isotonic strength training. The results indicated that neural factors accounted for the larger proportion of the initial strength increment and thereafter both neural factors and hypertrophy took part in the further increase in strength, with hypertrophy becoming the dominant factor after the first 3 to 5 weeks. Our data regarding the untrained contralateral arm flexors provide further support for the concept of cross education. It was suggested that the nature of this cross education effect may entirely rest on the neural factors presumably acting at various levels of the nervous system which could result in increasing the maximal level of muscle activation.", "contents": "Neural factors versus hypertrophy in the time course of muscle strength gain. The time course of strength gain with respect to the contributions of neural factors and hypertrophy was studied in seven young males and eight females during the course of an 8 week regimen of isotonic strength training. The results indicated that neural factors accounted for the larger proportion of the initial strength increment and thereafter both neural factors and hypertrophy took part in the further increase in strength, with hypertrophy becoming the dominant factor after the first 3 to 5 weeks. Our data regarding the untrained contralateral arm flexors provide further support for the concept of cross education. It was suggested that the nature of this cross education effect may entirely rest on the neural factors presumably acting at various levels of the nervous system which could result in increasing the maximal level of muscle activation.", "PMID": 453338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10555", "title": "Palmar conduction time of median and ulnar nerves of normal subjects and patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.", "content": "The wrist-palm conduction time for the median and ulnar nerves was determined using antidromic technique in thirty normal subjects. For the median nerve, the conduction time was 1.6 msec. to initial deflection from baseline and 1.7 msec. to peak of the initial negative deflection for the mean plus 2 SD. The median wrist-palm conduction time was then compared to the difference between the median and ulnar wrist-digit conduction times (mean plus 2 SD of 0.5 msec. measured either to initial deflection or peak negative deflection) in order to determine which technique aids more in the electrodiagnosis of patients with a presumptive clinical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome but which normal distal sensory latencies. It was found in ten patients that the results of these two electrodiagnostic methods paralleled each other, and neither appeared more sensitive than the other in establishing the diagnosis.", "contents": "Palmar conduction time of median and ulnar nerves of normal subjects and patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The wrist-palm conduction time for the median and ulnar nerves was determined using antidromic technique in thirty normal subjects. For the median nerve, the conduction time was 1.6 msec. to initial deflection from baseline and 1.7 msec. to peak of the initial negative deflection for the mean plus 2 SD. The median wrist-palm conduction time was then compared to the difference between the median and ulnar wrist-digit conduction times (mean plus 2 SD of 0.5 msec. measured either to initial deflection or peak negative deflection) in order to determine which technique aids more in the electrodiagnosis of patients with a presumptive clinical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome but which normal distal sensory latencies. It was found in ten patients that the results of these two electrodiagnostic methods paralleled each other, and neither appeared more sensitive than the other in establishing the diagnosis.", "PMID": 453339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10556", "title": "Effect of electromyographic feedback and static stretching on artificially induced muscle soreness.", "content": "Thirty-six male subjects aged 18 to 26 years were assigned at random to one of three treatment groups: biofeedback, static stretch, and control. Muscle soreness was produced in all subjects by an 80% maximal eccentric contraction of the biceps brachii. The subjects in the biofeedback group applied auditory electromyographic (EMG) feedback at 6, 25, 30, 49, and 54 hours after the exercise, and the stretch group applied static stretch to the exercised arm at the same time periods. Observations of EMG activity and perceived pain level were made immediately before and after exercise, and at 24, 48, and 72 hours following exercise. When compared with a control group, both auditory biofeedback and static stretching significantly reduced EMG muscle activity but had no significant effect on perceived pain. The EMG activity and perceived pain of the subjects in each treatment group significantly differed across observations.", "contents": "Effect of electromyographic feedback and static stretching on artificially induced muscle soreness. Thirty-six male subjects aged 18 to 26 years were assigned at random to one of three treatment groups: biofeedback, static stretch, and control. Muscle soreness was produced in all subjects by an 80% maximal eccentric contraction of the biceps brachii. The subjects in the biofeedback group applied auditory electromyographic (EMG) feedback at 6, 25, 30, 49, and 54 hours after the exercise, and the stretch group applied static stretch to the exercised arm at the same time periods. Observations of EMG activity and perceived pain level were made immediately before and after exercise, and at 24, 48, and 72 hours following exercise. When compared with a control group, both auditory biofeedback and static stretching significantly reduced EMG muscle activity but had no significant effect on perceived pain. The EMG activity and perceived pain of the subjects in each treatment group significantly differed across observations.", "PMID": 453340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10557", "title": "Statistical methods for analyzing data on daily activity cycles of primates.", "content": "Many field studies on primates have recently been carried out in which quantitative data have been collected using instantaneous scan sampling techniques. However, data collected in this manner are difficult to analyze statistically because of the problem of independence of samples, and a number of investigators have analyzed such data incorrectly. In this paper, we evaluate such analyses and suggest alternative techniques that may be more appropriate. Examples are drawn from data on daily activity cycles of Lemur catta and Lemur fulvus.", "contents": "Statistical methods for analyzing data on daily activity cycles of primates. Many field studies on primates have recently been carried out in which quantitative data have been collected using instantaneous scan sampling techniques. However, data collected in this manner are difficult to analyze statistically because of the problem of independence of samples, and a number of investigators have analyzed such data incorrectly. In this paper, we evaluate such analyses and suggest alternative techniques that may be more appropriate. Examples are drawn from data on daily activity cycles of Lemur catta and Lemur fulvus.", "PMID": 453341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10558", "title": "Relation to body fat to age in the Czech population.", "content": "Density and percentage of fat in the body were investigated in 403 females and 356 males of Czech population using hydrostatic weighing. The group was divided into four age subgroups ranging from 17 through 22, 23 through 29, 30 through 39 and 40 through 49 years. Fat values were found to increase with age, growing in females and males between the ages of 17 to 49 years from 27.1 to 35.4 and from 16.3 to 26%, respectively. In both sexes, the highest difference in the percentage of fat was observed between the second and third decennium. Body weight was also seen to increase with age up to 40 years of age. On the other hand, from 40 through 49 years a decrease in weight was seen both in male and female means, with the body heights also less in older subjects. The values observed, particularly in females, exceed those reported as a rule in other populations. This is accounted for by nutritional factors such as the amount of calories and composition of food and possibly also by the effect of the genetically given somatotype.", "contents": "Relation to body fat to age in the Czech population. Density and percentage of fat in the body were investigated in 403 females and 356 males of Czech population using hydrostatic weighing. The group was divided into four age subgroups ranging from 17 through 22, 23 through 29, 30 through 39 and 40 through 49 years. Fat values were found to increase with age, growing in females and males between the ages of 17 to 49 years from 27.1 to 35.4 and from 16.3 to 26%, respectively. In both sexes, the highest difference in the percentage of fat was observed between the second and third decennium. Body weight was also seen to increase with age up to 40 years of age. On the other hand, from 40 through 49 years a decrease in weight was seen both in male and female means, with the body heights also less in older subjects. The values observed, particularly in females, exceed those reported as a rule in other populations. This is accounted for by nutritional factors such as the amount of calories and composition of food and possibly also by the effect of the genetically given somatotype.", "PMID": 453342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10559", "title": "The human mandible: lever, link, or both?", "content": "Hylander ('78) recently published important new data on bite force in humans, and showed that the human mandible cannot function purely as a link during incisal biting. He concluded instead that the mandible acts as a lever. Reexamination of Hylander's data suggests that the mandible cannot function purely as a lever either, and in fact it probably functions simultaneously as both lever and link during incisal biting.", "contents": "The human mandible: lever, link, or both? Hylander ('78) recently published important new data on bite force in humans, and showed that the human mandible cannot function purely as a link during incisal biting. He concluded instead that the mandible acts as a lever. Reexamination of Hylander's data suggests that the mandible cannot function purely as a lever either, and in fact it probably functions simultaneously as both lever and link during incisal biting.", "PMID": 453343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10560", "title": "Skeletal changes produced by aortic aneurysms.", "content": "The three major types of aortic aneurysms--arteriosclerotic, syphilitic, and dissecting are disussed in relation to the skeletal changes they produce. The favored location, age, and sex predilection are described for each type. Four documented cases from the Hamann-Todd osteological collection are presented with a description of the associated skeletal changes. All four cases appear to be the result of syphilitic infection. These documented cases provide forensic and physical anthropologists with a means of diagnosing aortic aneurysms in modern, historic, and prehistoric human skeletal remains.", "contents": "Skeletal changes produced by aortic aneurysms. The three major types of aortic aneurysms--arteriosclerotic, syphilitic, and dissecting are disussed in relation to the skeletal changes they produce. The favored location, age, and sex predilection are described for each type. Four documented cases from the Hamann-Todd osteological collection are presented with a description of the associated skeletal changes. All four cases appear to be the result of syphilitic infection. These documented cases provide forensic and physical anthropologists with a means of diagnosing aortic aneurysms in modern, historic, and prehistoric human skeletal remains.", "PMID": 453344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10561", "title": "Relationship of lower limb height to sitting height in black populations of Africa and the United States.", "content": "This article examines a recently reported generalization. Materials from more than a score of invetigations are drawn upon. These materials show there is not a substantial research base for the claim that interbreeding in the United States between black people of African ancestry and white people of European ancestry has resulted in increased lower limb height relative to sitting height.", "contents": "Relationship of lower limb height to sitting height in black populations of Africa and the United States. This article examines a recently reported generalization. Materials from more than a score of invetigations are drawn upon. These materials show there is not a substantial research base for the claim that interbreeding in the United States between black people of African ancestry and white people of European ancestry has resulted in increased lower limb height relative to sitting height.", "PMID": 453345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10562", "title": "A correlation of tooth wear and age among modern Igloolik eskimos.", "content": "The level of molar wear can be estimated reliably by measuring the cusp height. A correlation between age and the level of molar wear, expressed by a normalizing index (TWI) of cusp height, was found to exist in a sample of modern Igloolik Northwest Territories Eskimos. Not only was it possible to derive linear regression models to test the degree of correlation in the sample of 46 female and 39 male maxillary casts of Igloolik Eskimos, but the models were capable of accurately predicting the age of natives of the neighboring Hall Beach community. Sexual dimorphism in molar wear, perhaps attributable to differential bruxism, was demonstrated for the Igloolik sample. Based on the combined estimate of slopes for each maxillary molar pair for females and males, it was discovered that the male maxillary molars are worn approximately 30% more rapidly than female maxillary molars.", "contents": "A correlation of tooth wear and age among modern Igloolik eskimos. The level of molar wear can be estimated reliably by measuring the cusp height. A correlation between age and the level of molar wear, expressed by a normalizing index (TWI) of cusp height, was found to exist in a sample of modern Igloolik Northwest Territories Eskimos. Not only was it possible to derive linear regression models to test the degree of correlation in the sample of 46 female and 39 male maxillary casts of Igloolik Eskimos, but the models were capable of accurately predicting the age of natives of the neighboring Hall Beach community. Sexual dimorphism in molar wear, perhaps attributable to differential bruxism, was demonstrated for the Igloolik sample. Based on the combined estimate of slopes for each maxillary molar pair for females and males, it was discovered that the male maxillary molars are worn approximately 30% more rapidly than female maxillary molars.", "PMID": 453346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10563", "title": "Time, age, and the life cycle.", "content": "Psychologists are increasingly interested in the life cycle as the unit for study and in such questions as whether adult development, like child development, is to be perceived as a succession of stages. A stage theory of adult life seems oversimplified for several reasons. First, the timing of life events is becoming less regular, age is losing its customary social meanings, and the trends are toward the fluid life cycle and an age-irrelevant society. Second, the psychological themes and preoccupations reported by young, middle-aged, and older persons are recurrent ones that appear and reappear in new forms and do not follow in a single fixed order. Third, intrapsychic changes occur slowly with age and not in stepwise fashion. These factors may have implications for the psychiatrist who, in helping the patient make a meaningful life story from a life history, deals always with issues of time, timing, and aging.", "contents": "Time, age, and the life cycle. Psychologists are increasingly interested in the life cycle as the unit for study and in such questions as whether adult development, like child development, is to be perceived as a succession of stages. A stage theory of adult life seems oversimplified for several reasons. First, the timing of life events is becoming less regular, age is losing its customary social meanings, and the trends are toward the fluid life cycle and an age-irrelevant society. Second, the psychological themes and preoccupations reported by young, middle-aged, and older persons are recurrent ones that appear and reappear in new forms and do not follow in a single fixed order. Third, intrapsychic changes occur slowly with age and not in stepwise fashion. These factors may have implications for the psychiatrist who, in helping the patient make a meaningful life story from a life history, deals always with issues of time, timing, and aging.", "PMID": 453348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10564", "title": "Pseudodementia.", "content": "Pseudodementia is the syndrome in which dementia is mimicked or caricatured by functional psychiatric disorders. The author describes 10 patients with pseudodementia and compares its clinical features with those of true dementia. The syndrome occurred in patients with various psychiatric diagnoses, but a striking feature in most patients was marked dependency. The recognition of this clinical syndrome should obviate the need for many neurological diagnostic studies and lead to earlier and more effective psychiatric treatment.", "contents": "Pseudodementia. Pseudodementia is the syndrome in which dementia is mimicked or caricatured by functional psychiatric disorders. The author describes 10 patients with pseudodementia and compares its clinical features with those of true dementia. The syndrome occurred in patients with various psychiatric diagnoses, but a striking feature in most patients was marked dependency. The recognition of this clinical syndrome should obviate the need for many neurological diagnostic studies and lead to earlier and more effective psychiatric treatment.", "PMID": 453349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10565", "title": "\"Folk\" explanations of mental illness in rural laos.", "content": "To obtain \"folk\" explanations of specific cases of mental illness the authors interviewed 35 baa(insane) Laotian individuals and their relatives and neighbors. They obtained 54 explanations; 15 focused on supernatural causes, 15 on physical causes, 14 on social problems, and 10 on psychological states. Although 31 theories (57%) focused on etiologic factors familiar to clinical psychiatrists, many self-evident factors (such as familial prevalence) were not mentioned. Except for 3 cases, responsibility for the illness was attributed to factors outside the subject's control. This view of mental illness absolves the baa person from blame and ensures support from the social group.", "contents": "\"Folk\" explanations of mental illness in rural laos. To obtain \"folk\" explanations of specific cases of mental illness the authors interviewed 35 baa(insane) Laotian individuals and their relatives and neighbors. They obtained 54 explanations; 15 focused on supernatural causes, 15 on physical causes, 14 on social problems, and 10 on psychological states. Although 31 theories (57%) focused on etiologic factors familiar to clinical psychiatrists, many self-evident factors (such as familial prevalence) were not mentioned. Except for 3 cases, responsibility for the illness was attributed to factors outside the subject's control. This view of mental illness absolves the baa person from blame and ensures support from the social group.", "PMID": 453350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10566", "title": "The crisis group--an outcome study.", "content": "The authors describe the day-to-day functioning and outcome of an 8-session, active, crisis-oriented outpatient psychotherapy group. Symptoms of anxiety and depression improved significantly in participants of the crisis group; these changes were even more positive at 1-year follow-up. The authors speculate that the success of the crisis group can be attributed to the felicitous characteristics of the patients and to the group structure and function, which provided an excellent vehicle for crisis intervention management.", "contents": "The crisis group--an outcome study. The authors describe the day-to-day functioning and outcome of an 8-session, active, crisis-oriented outpatient psychotherapy group. Symptoms of anxiety and depression improved significantly in participants of the crisis group; these changes were even more positive at 1-year follow-up. The authors speculate that the success of the crisis group can be attributed to the felicitous characteristics of the patients and to the group structure and function, which provided an excellent vehicle for crisis intervention management.", "PMID": 453351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10567", "title": "Familial (genetic) subtypes of pure depressive disease.", "content": "The author reviewed data from five studies and found that depressed patients with a history of depression in a parent or child have more sibships containing depression than depressed patients without this family history. Thus, there is a clustering of depressions in certain families. Sporadic pure depressive disease (PDD), where no depressive illness exists in a first-degree family member of a depressed proband, is associated with a later age of onset than familial PDD, where depressive illness does exist in a first-degree relationship. The possibility exists that familial PDD and sporadic PDD are autonomous illnesses. The presence of a family history of depression may be predictive to some extent of a good response to adequate tricyclic medication or ECT.", "contents": "Familial (genetic) subtypes of pure depressive disease. The author reviewed data from five studies and found that depressed patients with a history of depression in a parent or child have more sibships containing depression than depressed patients without this family history. Thus, there is a clustering of depressions in certain families. Sporadic pure depressive disease (PDD), where no depressive illness exists in a first-degree family member of a depressed proband, is associated with a later age of onset than familial PDD, where depressive illness does exist in a first-degree relationship. The possibility exists that familial PDD and sporadic PDD are autonomous illnesses. The presence of a family history of depression may be predictive to some extent of a good response to adequate tricyclic medication or ECT.", "PMID": 453352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10568", "title": "Effect of chlorpromazine on human growth hormone.", "content": "The authors studied basal HGH levels and HGH response to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in 12 schizophrenic patients who had been treated with 200--450 mg/day of chlorpromazine for 6 months to 4 years compared with 12 schizophrenic patients who had received no drugs and 15 normal control subjects. They found no significant differences among the three groups in basal HGH levels or in maximum response HGH levels. No significant correlation was found between duration or dose of chlorpromazine therapy and HGH secretion. Longitudinal study in 5 previously untreated schizophrenic patients during 13 weeks of chlorpromazine administration showed a nonsignificant reduction in HGH response. Thus, the authors' findings fail to demonstrate any significant effect of chlorpromazine on growth hormone secretion in man.", "contents": "Effect of chlorpromazine on human growth hormone. The authors studied basal HGH levels and HGH response to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in 12 schizophrenic patients who had been treated with 200--450 mg/day of chlorpromazine for 6 months to 4 years compared with 12 schizophrenic patients who had received no drugs and 15 normal control subjects. They found no significant differences among the three groups in basal HGH levels or in maximum response HGH levels. No significant correlation was found between duration or dose of chlorpromazine therapy and HGH secretion. Longitudinal study in 5 previously untreated schizophrenic patients during 13 weeks of chlorpromazine administration showed a nonsignificant reduction in HGH response. Thus, the authors' findings fail to demonstrate any significant effect of chlorpromazine on growth hormone secretion in man.", "PMID": 453353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10569", "title": "A systematic investigation of tardive dyskinesia in inpatients.", "content": "Although many scales to measure tardive dyskinesia have been developed, none has been widely accepted. The authors used the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) to evaluate a group of 293 inpatients who had been given a primary or secondary diagnosis of schizophrenia. They found a tardive dyskinesia prevalence of 30% using a criterion rating of 3 (moderate symptoms) or more on the AIMS. The prevalence figure declined as the criterion became more severe. They also found that women had a much higher prevalence of the disorder only when more severe symptoms were used as the criterion. They conclude that the AIMS is a reliable instrument for assessing tardive dyskinesia.", "contents": "A systematic investigation of tardive dyskinesia in inpatients. Although many scales to measure tardive dyskinesia have been developed, none has been widely accepted. The authors used the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) to evaluate a group of 293 inpatients who had been given a primary or secondary diagnosis of schizophrenia. They found a tardive dyskinesia prevalence of 30% using a criterion rating of 3 (moderate symptoms) or more on the AIMS. The prevalence figure declined as the criterion became more severe. They also found that women had a much higher prevalence of the disorder only when more severe symptoms were used as the criterion. They conclude that the AIMS is a reliable instrument for assessing tardive dyskinesia.", "PMID": 453354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10570", "title": "The development of an internship program in psychiatric nursing.", "content": "As medicine and nursing have become increasingly specialized, the need for additional training for the graduate nurse has become more evident. One way in which nursing educators have dealth with this problem is through the establishment of general nursing internship programs. The authors review some of the historical background for the development of these programs and describe the establishment of an 8-week specialized nursing internship program in psychiatric nursing. They conclude with a brief evaluation of the program.", "contents": "The development of an internship program in psychiatric nursing. As medicine and nursing have become increasingly specialized, the need for additional training for the graduate nurse has become more evident. One way in which nursing educators have dealth with this problem is through the establishment of general nursing internship programs. The authors review some of the historical background for the development of these programs and describe the establishment of an 8-week specialized nursing internship program in psychiatric nursing. They conclude with a brief evaluation of the program.", "PMID": 453355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10571", "title": "CSF copper in schizophrenia.", "content": "The authors measured copper levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of 8 schizophrenic subjects and 6 controls. The schizophrenic subjects had significantly lower CSF copper values than the controls, which is consistent with the hypothesis that there is reduced central activity of copper-dependent enzymes in schizophrenia. These enzymes, tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, are involved in the synthesis and catabolism of dopamine.", "contents": "CSF copper in schizophrenia. The authors measured copper levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of 8 schizophrenic subjects and 6 controls. The schizophrenic subjects had significantly lower CSF copper values than the controls, which is consistent with the hypothesis that there is reduced central activity of copper-dependent enzymes in schizophrenia. These enzymes, tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, are involved in the synthesis and catabolism of dopamine.", "PMID": 453356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10572", "title": "Affective flattening and the criteria for schizophrenia.", "content": "The author used a scale that emphasizes objective behavioral signs to evaluate affective flattening and to rate affect in 69 patients suffering from schizophrenia (N = 30), mania (N = 19), and depression (N = 20). Raters were blind to the patient's diagnosis. Interrater reliability was assessed and found to be adequate to good for most items on the scale and for a global rating. The affective flattening was found to be common, but not omnipresent, in schizophrenia; it was also common among the depressed patients. The author recommends that affective flattening be considered as an important criterion for schizophrenia and that future research explore its frequency and prognostic significance.", "contents": "Affective flattening and the criteria for schizophrenia. The author used a scale that emphasizes objective behavioral signs to evaluate affective flattening and to rate affect in 69 patients suffering from schizophrenia (N = 30), mania (N = 19), and depression (N = 20). Raters were blind to the patient's diagnosis. Interrater reliability was assessed and found to be adequate to good for most items on the scale and for a global rating. The affective flattening was found to be common, but not omnipresent, in schizophrenia; it was also common among the depressed patients. The author recommends that affective flattening be considered as an important criterion for schizophrenia and that future research explore its frequency and prognostic significance.", "PMID": 453357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10573", "title": "Diagnosis of adult psychiatric patients with childhood hyperactivity.", "content": "The authors compared 48 adult psychiatric patients (27 men and 21 women) who had been hyperactive as children with two groups of patients who had not. Both comparison groups were matched for age and sex and the second was also matched for economic status. Although closer matching narrowed the gap somewhat, the formerly hyperactive subjects still showed significantly more personality disorder of all types, more sociopathy, more alcoholism, and less affective disorder than controls. Schizophrenia and drug abuse occurred no more often in these subjects than in the comparison groups.", "contents": "Diagnosis of adult psychiatric patients with childhood hyperactivity. The authors compared 48 adult psychiatric patients (27 men and 21 women) who had been hyperactive as children with two groups of patients who had not. Both comparison groups were matched for age and sex and the second was also matched for economic status. Although closer matching narrowed the gap somewhat, the formerly hyperactive subjects still showed significantly more personality disorder of all types, more sociopathy, more alcoholism, and less affective disorder than controls. Schizophrenia and drug abuse occurred no more often in these subjects than in the comparison groups.", "PMID": 453359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10574", "title": "Effects of a program for evaluating child psychiatry fellows.", "content": "The authors describe their experience with the implementation of a systematic evaluation of child psychiatry fellows and adult psychiatry residents rotating through a child psychiatry program. They found that the semiannual evaluations not only defined the competence of fellows and residents but also enhanced the program by pointing out areas of weakness. The evaluation process had many other beneficial effects on the program, the faculty, the child psychiatry fellows, and the adult psychiatry residents.", "contents": "Effects of a program for evaluating child psychiatry fellows. The authors describe their experience with the implementation of a systematic evaluation of child psychiatry fellows and adult psychiatry residents rotating through a child psychiatry program. They found that the semiannual evaluations not only defined the competence of fellows and residents but also enhanced the program by pointing out areas of weakness. The evaluation process had many other beneficial effects on the program, the faculty, the child psychiatry fellows, and the adult psychiatry residents.", "PMID": 453360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10575", "title": "Intestinal dilatation associated with phenothiazine therapy: a case report and literature review.", "content": "The authors describe a fatal episode of intestinal dilatation associated with chlorpromazine therapy. A total of 26 similar cases associated with phenothiazine or tricyclic antidepressant therapy, including 9 fatalities, has been reported in the literature. The authors cite experimental evidence supporting this association. They emphasize the difficulty of recognizing this syndrome in the psychotic patient; careful evaluation is indicated in the constipated patient who exhibits vomiting, abdominal pain, distension, or tenderness.", "contents": "Intestinal dilatation associated with phenothiazine therapy: a case report and literature review. The authors describe a fatal episode of intestinal dilatation associated with chlorpromazine therapy. A total of 26 similar cases associated with phenothiazine or tricyclic antidepressant therapy, including 9 fatalities, has been reported in the literature. The authors cite experimental evidence supporting this association. They emphasize the difficulty of recognizing this syndrome in the psychotic patient; careful evaluation is indicated in the constipated patient who exhibits vomiting, abdominal pain, distension, or tenderness.", "PMID": 453361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10576", "title": "Violence against women--the myth of masochism.", "content": "Women have been victims of violence throughout history. Freud's theory of masochism stated that women enjoyed suffering, and until very recently the mental health profession went along with this universal human tendency to blame the victim. In this paper a new understanding of the dynamics of abused wives and violence-prone husbands is being presented indicating that the explanation lies in the new field of the study of psychological reactions of victims of violence and catastrophe.", "contents": "Violence against women--the myth of masochism. Women have been victims of violence throughout history. Freud's theory of masochism stated that women enjoyed suffering, and until very recently the mental health profession went along with this universal human tendency to blame the victim. In this paper a new understanding of the dynamics of abused wives and violence-prone husbands is being presented indicating that the explanation lies in the new field of the study of psychological reactions of victims of violence and catastrophe.", "PMID": 453382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10577", "title": "Vulnerability to violence: masochism as process.", "content": "The recent growth of violence toward women, including rape, assault, wife-battering, and marital rape, has raised questions of whether any personality trait or psychological difficulty furthers their vulnerability. Freud's concept of feminine masochism is re-examined and translated into a culturally determined process which, if properly understood, could be changed to help women prevent or at least reduce their own victimization.", "contents": "Vulnerability to violence: masochism as process. The recent growth of violence toward women, including rape, assault, wife-battering, and marital rape, has raised questions of whether any personality trait or psychological difficulty furthers their vulnerability. Freud's concept of feminine masochism is re-examined and translated into a culturally determined process which, if properly understood, could be changed to help women prevent or at least reduce their own victimization.", "PMID": 453383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10578", "title": "The status of violence against women: past, present and future factors.", "content": "Violence against women is viewed in terms of the past and present and projected as it is likely to be in the future. Those factors that have determined the overall relationships between men and women are reviewed in an attempt to explain rape and wife-beating.", "contents": "The status of violence against women: past, present and future factors. Violence against women is viewed in terms of the past and present and projected as it is likely to be in the future. Those factors that have determined the overall relationships between men and women are reviewed in an attempt to explain rape and wife-beating.", "PMID": 453384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10579", "title": "Psychodynamics and sociodynamics of gender-dysphoric states.", "content": "The psychodynamics and sociodynamics of gender-dysphoric states are examined. The hypotheses (including pathology in the mother-child relationship; defective object relations; aggression and sexuality, etc.) are based on a four-year clinical investigation of over 125 patients who requested sexual surgery. Transsexualism is seen as both a psychological and social phenomena.", "contents": "Psychodynamics and sociodynamics of gender-dysphoric states. The psychodynamics and sociodynamics of gender-dysphoric states are examined. The hypotheses (including pathology in the mother-child relationship; defective object relations; aggression and sexuality, etc.) are based on a four-year clinical investigation of over 125 patients who requested sexual surgery. Transsexualism is seen as both a psychological and social phenomena.", "PMID": 453385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10580", "title": "A psychoanalytic approach to abnormalities of temperament.", "content": "Certain personality defects noted during psychoanalytic therapy are expressions of temperament. Using a 72-item temperament index, the author analyzed 101 patients with respect to depressive, irritable, manic, paranoid and shizoid subscales. At least one such \"temperament\" was present in two-thirds of the borderline and in one-third of the neurotic patients. The temperament-positive borderline patients usually had a close relative with a schizophrenic or primary affective disorder. Several cases exhibiting temperament abnormalities are presented and modifications of analytic psychotherapy to deal more effectively with them are outlined.", "contents": "A psychoanalytic approach to abnormalities of temperament. Certain personality defects noted during psychoanalytic therapy are expressions of temperament. Using a 72-item temperament index, the author analyzed 101 patients with respect to depressive, irritable, manic, paranoid and shizoid subscales. At least one such \"temperament\" was present in two-thirds of the borderline and in one-third of the neurotic patients. The temperament-positive borderline patients usually had a close relative with a schizophrenic or primary affective disorder. Several cases exhibiting temperament abnormalities are presented and modifications of analytic psychotherapy to deal more effectively with them are outlined.", "PMID": 453386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10581", "title": "Diagnosis separate from psychotherapy: pros and cons.", "content": "The gains and losses deriving from the separation of the diagnostic process from psychotherapy proper are discussed, especially as that applies to patients who are seen within an institutional setting. These gains and losses are viewed from the standpoint of the patient, the diagnosticians and the psychotherapists, and the institution itself.", "contents": "Diagnosis separate from psychotherapy: pros and cons. The gains and losses deriving from the separation of the diagnostic process from psychotherapy proper are discussed, especially as that applies to patients who are seen within an institutional setting. These gains and losses are viewed from the standpoint of the patient, the diagnosticians and the psychotherapists, and the institution itself.", "PMID": 453387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10582", "title": "Cognitive dissonance in behavior therapy: some basic treatment strategies.", "content": "As the behavioral model becomes liberalized and more encompassing very different frameworks may offer treatment resources. Several treatment techniques derived from cognitive-dissonance theory are discussed in the context of relevant theoretical postulates. Most of the techniques may be applied as needed regardless of the orientation of the practitioner.", "contents": "Cognitive dissonance in behavior therapy: some basic treatment strategies. As the behavioral model becomes liberalized and more encompassing very different frameworks may offer treatment resources. Several treatment techniques derived from cognitive-dissonance theory are discussed in the context of relevant theoretical postulates. Most of the techniques may be applied as needed regardless of the orientation of the practitioner.", "PMID": 453388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10583", "title": "The effects of prenatal care upon the health of the newborn.", "content": "Data upon all births and infant deaths in New York City in 1968 are analyzed using methods for the analysis of multidimensional contingency tables. These methods provide estimates of the effect of variations in prenatal care upon the relative risks of low birth weight and neonatal and postneonatal mortality, controlling for a wide variety of factors which tend to \"select\" women into a program of prenatal care. Significant relationships between lack of prenatal care and infant mortality are estimated, but these occur mainly via the relationship of inadequate prenatal care to low birth weight. Furthermore, among white mothers who delivered on a private service, those receiving inadequate levels of prenatal care experienced only slightly increased risks of a low birth weight infant. In contrast, white mothers who delivered on a general service, and all black mothers, experienced substantially increased risks when receiving inadequate prenatal care. A variety of behavioral characteristics of mothers were not controlled in these analyses, and thus clear causal inferences concerning the efficacy of prenatal care cannot be drawn. These analyses do, however, identify a significant population of women at substantial risk.", "contents": "The effects of prenatal care upon the health of the newborn. Data upon all births and infant deaths in New York City in 1968 are analyzed using methods for the analysis of multidimensional contingency tables. These methods provide estimates of the effect of variations in prenatal care upon the relative risks of low birth weight and neonatal and postneonatal mortality, controlling for a wide variety of factors which tend to \"select\" women into a program of prenatal care. Significant relationships between lack of prenatal care and infant mortality are estimated, but these occur mainly via the relationship of inadequate prenatal care to low birth weight. Furthermore, among white mothers who delivered on a private service, those receiving inadequate levels of prenatal care experienced only slightly increased risks of a low birth weight infant. In contrast, white mothers who delivered on a general service, and all black mothers, experienced substantially increased risks when receiving inadequate prenatal care. A variety of behavioral characteristics of mothers were not controlled in these analyses, and thus clear causal inferences concerning the efficacy of prenatal care cannot be drawn. These analyses do, however, identify a significant population of women at substantial risk.", "PMID": 453391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10584", "title": "A multivariate analysis of interstate variation in fertility of teenage girls.", "content": "A multiple regression model was used to determine the correlates of state-to-state variation in fertility of teenage girls. The independent variables were the abortion-t0-live birth ratio, contraception/conception ratio, racial composition, adult personal income, per cent urban population, and adult educational attainment. The model explained 69 per cent of the interstate variation in 1974 fertility. Both the racial composition and the abortion ratio were significantly (p less than .01) correlated with fertility. With 1970--1974 change in fertility as the dependent variable, the model explained 80 per cent of the variation, with income as the most strongly correlated variable. The contraception/conception ratio was also significant (p less than .01), as was racial composition (p less than .05). Factor analysis of the independent variables showed that the six variables were well accounted for by three factors representing culture/education status, abortion availability, and contraception availability. The analysis showed that utilization of both contraception and abortion was important in determining the fertility of a state's teenagers. Increased availability of publicly subsidized contraception in low income areas and increased availability of abortion in low income and rural areas might be expected to result in decreased fertility of teenage girls.", "contents": "A multivariate analysis of interstate variation in fertility of teenage girls. A multiple regression model was used to determine the correlates of state-to-state variation in fertility of teenage girls. The independent variables were the abortion-t0-live birth ratio, contraception/conception ratio, racial composition, adult personal income, per cent urban population, and adult educational attainment. The model explained 69 per cent of the interstate variation in 1974 fertility. Both the racial composition and the abortion ratio were significantly (p less than .01) correlated with fertility. With 1970--1974 change in fertility as the dependent variable, the model explained 80 per cent of the variation, with income as the most strongly correlated variable. The contraception/conception ratio was also significant (p less than .01), as was racial composition (p less than .05). Factor analysis of the independent variables showed that the six variables were well accounted for by three factors representing culture/education status, abortion availability, and contraception availability. The analysis showed that utilization of both contraception and abortion was important in determining the fertility of a state's teenagers. Increased availability of publicly subsidized contraception in low income areas and increased availability of abortion in low income and rural areas might be expected to result in decreased fertility of teenage girls.", "PMID": 453392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10585", "title": "Utilization of health care: the Laredo migrant experience.", "content": "In 1973, three groups of randomly selected migrant labor families resident in Laredo, Texas were enrolled in a prepaid health insurance study. A study was implemented to determine the kinds and costs of medical care used by Mexican American migrant labor families in their homebase and travel areas where financial barriers to care were eliminated or reduced. At the end of three years it was found that the study population used ambulatory services about one-half as much as the general U.S. population while hospital use approached regional norms. The differences between homebase and out-of-area use are highlighted, and the reported failure to use any public facilities outside of Laredo is discussed.", "contents": "Utilization of health care: the Laredo migrant experience. In 1973, three groups of randomly selected migrant labor families resident in Laredo, Texas were enrolled in a prepaid health insurance study. A study was implemented to determine the kinds and costs of medical care used by Mexican American migrant labor families in their homebase and travel areas where financial barriers to care were eliminated or reduced. At the end of three years it was found that the study population used ambulatory services about one-half as much as the general U.S. population while hospital use approached regional norms. The differences between homebase and out-of-area use are highlighted, and the reported failure to use any public facilities outside of Laredo is discussed.", "PMID": 453393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10586", "title": "A clinical epidemiologic study of hyperphenylalaninemia.", "content": "Thirty-nine cases of hyperphenylalaninemia from four diagnostic-treatment centers in Ohio were investigated in a retrospective cohort analysis. None of the centers is included in the PKU Collaborative Study. Epidemiologic analysis showed that early treatment is effective and that degree of dietary control (within limits) does not affect the probability of retardation or borderline retardation. Regression analysis supported the critical period hypothesis rather than the maximum concentration theory. Exposure to serum phenylalanine of 23--27 mg./dl. corresponds to 50 per cent probability retardation. The clinical epidemiologic approach offers an alternative methodology for designing collaborative studies.", "contents": "A clinical epidemiologic study of hyperphenylalaninemia. Thirty-nine cases of hyperphenylalaninemia from four diagnostic-treatment centers in Ohio were investigated in a retrospective cohort analysis. None of the centers is included in the PKU Collaborative Study. Epidemiologic analysis showed that early treatment is effective and that degree of dietary control (within limits) does not affect the probability of retardation or borderline retardation. Regression analysis supported the critical period hypothesis rather than the maximum concentration theory. Exposure to serum phenylalanine of 23--27 mg./dl. corresponds to 50 per cent probability retardation. The clinical epidemiologic approach offers an alternative methodology for designing collaborative studies.", "PMID": 453394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10587", "title": "Studies on the reliability of vital and health records: I. Comparison of cause of death and hospital record diagnoses.", "content": "Based on computer linkage of death records and hospital discharge abstracts, underlying cause of death and discharge diagnoses are compared for 9,724 Vermont resident in-hospital deaths occurring between 1969 and 1975. The agreement between the diagnoses recorded in the two data systems provides a measure of the reproducibility of recording, abstracting, and coding practices. Using the first three digits of the International Classification of Diseases, the agreement between cause and closest medical record diagnosis was 72 per cent. Concordance declined by patient age and length of hospital stay and varied significantly by coded cause of death. A major source of variation was the hospital of death where agreement levels ranged between 45 and 84 per cent. The latter finding is regarded as a potential starting point for targeting investigation of sources of discrepancy and initiating efforts to improve diagnosis recording and coding in the two record systems. The value of both depends on continuing efforts to improve and maintain data quality.", "contents": "Studies on the reliability of vital and health records: I. Comparison of cause of death and hospital record diagnoses. Based on computer linkage of death records and hospital discharge abstracts, underlying cause of death and discharge diagnoses are compared for 9,724 Vermont resident in-hospital deaths occurring between 1969 and 1975. The agreement between the diagnoses recorded in the two data systems provides a measure of the reproducibility of recording, abstracting, and coding practices. Using the first three digits of the International Classification of Diseases, the agreement between cause and closest medical record diagnosis was 72 per cent. Concordance declined by patient age and length of hospital stay and varied significantly by coded cause of death. A major source of variation was the hospital of death where agreement levels ranged between 45 and 84 per cent. The latter finding is regarded as a potential starting point for targeting investigation of sources of discrepancy and initiating efforts to improve diagnosis recording and coding in the two record systems. The value of both depends on continuing efforts to improve and maintain data quality.", "PMID": 453395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10588", "title": "Relationship of microbial indicators to health effects at marine bathing beaches.", "content": "Findings are described from the second year of an epidemiological-microbiological study conducted at New York City beaches as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program to develop health effects-recreational water quality criteria. Symptomatology rates among swimmers (defined as immersion of the head in the water) relative to nonswimming but beach-going controls at a \"barely acceptable\" (BA) beach and a \"relatively unpolluted\" (RU) beach were examined. Data were collected by contacting family groups at the beach on weekends, obtaining information on bathing activity, and then questioning them by phone some 8--10 days later. In addition measurements were made for a number of potential water quality indicators. It was observed that the symptom rates, categorized as gastrointestinal (GI), respiratory, \"other\", and \"disabling\" (stayed home, stayed in bed, consulted a physician), were higher among swimmers than nonswimmers. As in the pretest conducted the previous year, the rate of GI symptoms was significantly higher among swimmers relative to nonswimmers at the BA but not the RU beach. Children, Hispanic Americans, and the low-middle socioeconomic groups were identified as the most susceptible portions of the population.", "contents": "Relationship of microbial indicators to health effects at marine bathing beaches. Findings are described from the second year of an epidemiological-microbiological study conducted at New York City beaches as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program to develop health effects-recreational water quality criteria. Symptomatology rates among swimmers (defined as immersion of the head in the water) relative to nonswimming but beach-going controls at a \"barely acceptable\" (BA) beach and a \"relatively unpolluted\" (RU) beach were examined. Data were collected by contacting family groups at the beach on weekends, obtaining information on bathing activity, and then questioning them by phone some 8--10 days later. In addition measurements were made for a number of potential water quality indicators. It was observed that the symptom rates, categorized as gastrointestinal (GI), respiratory, \"other\", and \"disabling\" (stayed home, stayed in bed, consulted a physician), were higher among swimmers than nonswimmers. As in the pretest conducted the previous year, the rate of GI symptoms was significantly higher among swimmers relative to nonswimmers at the BA but not the RU beach. Children, Hispanic Americans, and the low-middle socioeconomic groups were identified as the most susceptible portions of the population.", "PMID": 453396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10589", "title": "Dental x-ray use in Boston.", "content": "A telephone survey of 40 dental offices in Boston, Massachusetts, revealed that 95 per cent perform x-ray procedures as part of the initial examination of a new patient, that almost one-half (47.5 per cent) routinely include a full-mouth x-ray series in the initial examination, and that 85 per cent include some type of radiographic procedure as part of the periodic visits for cleaning and checkups. These percentages are substantially in excess of those reported by other investigators in which the respondents were aware that their policies with respect to the use of x-rays were being evaluated.", "contents": "Dental x-ray use in Boston. A telephone survey of 40 dental offices in Boston, Massachusetts, revealed that 95 per cent perform x-ray procedures as part of the initial examination of a new patient, that almost one-half (47.5 per cent) routinely include a full-mouth x-ray series in the initial examination, and that 85 per cent include some type of radiographic procedure as part of the periodic visits for cleaning and checkups. These percentages are substantially in excess of those reported by other investigators in which the respondents were aware that their policies with respect to the use of x-rays were being evaluated.", "PMID": 453399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10590", "title": "Survey of rodent populations associated with an urban landfill.", "content": "Trap lines placed in fields along the margin of a Houston, Texas landfill failed to capture a Rattus in 2,358 trap-nights. However, another trap line adjacent to a nearby residential area yielded four Norway rats in 510 trap-nights. These results suggest that rats living in or near homes were not crossing the fields to reach the landfill. The distribution of two native rodent species normally found in such fields reflected no landfill influence.", "contents": "Survey of rodent populations associated with an urban landfill. Trap lines placed in fields along the margin of a Houston, Texas landfill failed to capture a Rattus in 2,358 trap-nights. However, another trap line adjacent to a nearby residential area yielded four Norway rats in 510 trap-nights. These results suggest that rats living in or near homes were not crossing the fields to reach the landfill. The distribution of two native rodent species normally found in such fields reflected no landfill influence.", "PMID": 453401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10591", "title": "Home birth in Salt Lake County, Utah.", "content": "In Salt Lake County, Utah in 1972 and 1975, 167 women had planned home deliveries. Birth certificate data indicated they did not differ from the total population in age, marital, and socioeconomic status. Eighty-four women were interviewed and reported hostility from health professionals which may have placed them at unnecessary risk.", "contents": "Home birth in Salt Lake County, Utah. In Salt Lake County, Utah in 1972 and 1975, 167 women had planned home deliveries. Birth certificate data indicated they did not differ from the total population in age, marital, and socioeconomic status. Eighty-four women were interviewed and reported hostility from health professionals which may have placed them at unnecessary risk.", "PMID": 453402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10592", "title": "Exploring the use of death certificates as a component of an occupational health surveillance system.", "content": "An effort has been made to explore a case-finding surveillance system for occupationally-related disease using death records. A sentinel health event, here lung cancer in young males, was selected to seek unusual associations with occupations as listed on the death records. Fishermen appeared to be over-represented and population studies cited suggest lung cancer in this occupation deserves further exploration. Further efforts of this type could test the usefulness of an occupational health surveillance system based on the death certificate.", "contents": "Exploring the use of death certificates as a component of an occupational health surveillance system. An effort has been made to explore a case-finding surveillance system for occupationally-related disease using death records. A sentinel health event, here lung cancer in young males, was selected to seek unusual associations with occupations as listed on the death records. Fishermen appeared to be over-represented and population studies cited suggest lung cancer in this occupation deserves further exploration. Further efforts of this type could test the usefulness of an occupational health surveillance system based on the death certificate.", "PMID": 453403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10593", "title": "Rheumatic fever in Minnesota. II. Evaluation of hospitalized patients and utilization of a State Rheumatic Fever Registry.", "content": "We studied the hospital records of 124 patients with a discharge diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever who were hospitalized in 21 Minneapolis-St. Paul hospitals during 1975 and 1976. After careful review of the hospital records, we found that 83 (67 per cent) of these patients did not have an acute illness. Seventeen (41 per cent) of the 41 cases with an acute illness were thought to adequately fulfill the Jones' Criteria for acute rheumatic fever. Upon review of the rheumatic fever registry of the Minnesota State Health Department, we found that less than one-half of the hospitalized patients had been reported to the registry. Cases that fulfilled and did not fulfill the Jones' Criteria were reported with equal frequency, indicating significant underreporting and overreporting of rheumatic fever. Evaluation of secondary rheumatic fever prophylaxis, both in those patients with acute rheumatic fever as well as in those with rheumatic heart disease, indicated that many patients who, in theory, should be receiving prophylaxis were not receiving it. These studies indicate a need for more thorough evaluation of the current epidemiology of rheumatic fever and the role of a rheumatic fever registry, and imply a need for reevaluation of these programs. (Am J Public Health 69:767-771, 1979).", "contents": "Rheumatic fever in Minnesota. II. Evaluation of hospitalized patients and utilization of a State Rheumatic Fever Registry. We studied the hospital records of 124 patients with a discharge diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever who were hospitalized in 21 Minneapolis-St. Paul hospitals during 1975 and 1976. After careful review of the hospital records, we found that 83 (67 per cent) of these patients did not have an acute illness. Seventeen (41 per cent) of the 41 cases with an acute illness were thought to adequately fulfill the Jones' Criteria for acute rheumatic fever. Upon review of the rheumatic fever registry of the Minnesota State Health Department, we found that less than one-half of the hospitalized patients had been reported to the registry. Cases that fulfilled and did not fulfill the Jones' Criteria were reported with equal frequency, indicating significant underreporting and overreporting of rheumatic fever. Evaluation of secondary rheumatic fever prophylaxis, both in those patients with acute rheumatic fever as well as in those with rheumatic heart disease, indicated that many patients who, in theory, should be receiving prophylaxis were not receiving it. These studies indicate a need for more thorough evaluation of the current epidemiology of rheumatic fever and the role of a rheumatic fever registry, and imply a need for reevaluation of these programs. (Am J Public Health 69:767-771, 1979).", "PMID": 453408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10594", "title": "Ischaemic heart disease mortality and the business cycle in Australia.", "content": "Trends in Australian heart disease mortality were assessed for association with the business cycle. Correlation models of mortality and unemployment series were used to test for association. An indicator series of \"national stress\" was developed. The three series were analyzed in path models to quantify the links between unemployment, national stress, and heart disease. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality and national stress were found to follow the business cycle. The two periods of accelerating IHD mortality coincided with economic recession. The proposed \"wave hypothesis\" links the trend in IHD mortality to the high unemployment of severe recession. The mortality trend describes a typical epidemic parabolic path from the Great Depression to 1975, with a smaller parabolic trend at the 1961 recession. These findings appear consistent with the hypothesis that heart disease is, to some degree, a point source epidemic arising with periods of severe economic recession. Forecasts under the hypothesis indicate a turning point in the mortality trend between 1976 and 1978. (Am J Public Health 69:772-781, 1979).", "contents": "Ischaemic heart disease mortality and the business cycle in Australia. Trends in Australian heart disease mortality were assessed for association with the business cycle. Correlation models of mortality and unemployment series were used to test for association. An indicator series of \"national stress\" was developed. The three series were analyzed in path models to quantify the links between unemployment, national stress, and heart disease. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality and national stress were found to follow the business cycle. The two periods of accelerating IHD mortality coincided with economic recession. The proposed \"wave hypothesis\" links the trend in IHD mortality to the high unemployment of severe recession. The mortality trend describes a typical epidemic parabolic path from the Great Depression to 1975, with a smaller parabolic trend at the 1961 recession. These findings appear consistent with the hypothesis that heart disease is, to some degree, a point source epidemic arising with periods of severe economic recession. Forecasts under the hypothesis indicate a turning point in the mortality trend between 1976 and 1978. (Am J Public Health 69:772-781, 1979).", "PMID": 453409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10595", "title": "Health costs of economic expansion: the case of manufacturing accident injuries.", "content": "The hypothesized relationship between economic expansion and accident injuries is tested using archival economic and accident data from the Los Angeles-Long Beach, California metropolitan area. The association is measured using cross-correlation techniques after variation shared with a comparison metropolitan area (Anaheim-Santa Ana-Garden Grove) is removed. Two tests of association are conducted. The first uses the raw accident rate of the comparison metropolitan area as a control variable while the second adjusts the control variable to reflect shared industrial sectors. Findings suggest that the incidence of disabling accidents increases in the month before and during the month that the manufacturing work force expands. The impact appears strongest during the month that new workers are added.", "contents": "Health costs of economic expansion: the case of manufacturing accident injuries. The hypothesized relationship between economic expansion and accident injuries is tested using archival economic and accident data from the Los Angeles-Long Beach, California metropolitan area. The association is measured using cross-correlation techniques after variation shared with a comparison metropolitan area (Anaheim-Santa Ana-Garden Grove) is removed. Two tests of association are conducted. The first uses the raw accident rate of the comparison metropolitan area as a control variable while the second adjusts the control variable to reflect shared industrial sectors. Findings suggest that the incidence of disabling accidents increases in the month before and during the month that the manufacturing work force expands. The impact appears strongest during the month that new workers are added.", "PMID": 453412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10596", "title": "The effects of changes in smoking habits on coronary heart disease mortality.", "content": "Coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality declined by about 20 per cent between 1965 and 1976. During the same period there were substantial decreases in the proportion of adults who smoked based on data from the National Health Interview Survey (HIS). This study examines the extent to which changes in smoking can account for the decrease in CHD mortality for men and women aged 35-64 years. By applying US smoking levels (estimated from HIS) to data from four epidemiologic studies on the relative risk of CHD death by amount smoked, we obtain estimates of the portion of the decline in CHD mortality attributable to changes in smoking. Smoking changes among women were not generally consistent with declines in CHD mortality. For men, the estimated impact of smoking on CHD mortality varied considerably depending upon which study was used to estimate the relative risk by amount smoked.", "contents": "The effects of changes in smoking habits on coronary heart disease mortality. Coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality declined by about 20 per cent between 1965 and 1976. During the same period there were substantial decreases in the proportion of adults who smoked based on data from the National Health Interview Survey (HIS). This study examines the extent to which changes in smoking can account for the decrease in CHD mortality for men and women aged 35-64 years. By applying US smoking levels (estimated from HIS) to data from four epidemiologic studies on the relative risk of CHD death by amount smoked, we obtain estimates of the portion of the decline in CHD mortality attributable to changes in smoking. Smoking changes among women were not generally consistent with declines in CHD mortality. For men, the estimated impact of smoking on CHD mortality varied considerably depending upon which study was used to estimate the relative risk by amount smoked.", "PMID": 453413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10597", "title": "Evaluation of a group nutrition education approach to effective weight loss and control.", "content": "Fifty-three male officers of the Boston Police Department voluntarily participated in a 12-week nutrition program with weight control as a primary goal, and education in related health factors as a secondary goal. One year after graduation, 26 respondents to a survey reported losing an average additional 0.5 kg since graduation for a mean weight loss of 11.4 kg since their introduction into the classes. None had returned to their original weight status.", "contents": "Evaluation of a group nutrition education approach to effective weight loss and control. Fifty-three male officers of the Boston Police Department voluntarily participated in a 12-week nutrition program with weight control as a primary goal, and education in related health factors as a secondary goal. One year after graduation, 26 respondents to a survey reported losing an average additional 0.5 kg since graduation for a mean weight loss of 11.4 kg since their introduction into the classes. None had returned to their original weight status.", "PMID": 453416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10598", "title": "Self care for colds: a cost-effective alternative to upper respiratory infection management.", "content": "A Cold Self-Care (CSC) Center was established in a prepaid ambulatory care setting serving 21,500 subscribers and their dependents. After CSC establishment, a decrease in visits to practitioners for common colds was demonstrated. The operating cost ratio of an outpatient visit as compared to a CSC visit was 14.7/1. Savings over a two-year period are estimated at over $46,000, representing an average estimated ratio of $.09 cost per dollar saved per member per year.", "contents": "Self care for colds: a cost-effective alternative to upper respiratory infection management. A Cold Self-Care (CSC) Center was established in a prepaid ambulatory care setting serving 21,500 subscribers and their dependents. After CSC establishment, a decrease in visits to practitioners for common colds was demonstrated. The operating cost ratio of an outpatient visit as compared to a CSC visit was 14.7/1. Savings over a two-year period are estimated at over $46,000, representing an average estimated ratio of $.09 cost per dollar saved per member per year.", "PMID": 453417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10599", "title": "Waterborne giardiasis in the United States: a review.", "content": "Twenty-three waterborne outbreaks of giardiasis have been reported in the US, 1972-77. Data indicate that disinfection as the only treatment for surface water sources is ineffective in preventing waterborne transmission of this organism. To protect against transmission, all surface water should receive chemical pretreatment, preferably with sedimentation, and filtration in addition to disinfection. Outbreak data indicate that negative coliform tests do not provide assurance that water is free of Giardia cysts.", "contents": "Waterborne giardiasis in the United States: a review. Twenty-three waterborne outbreaks of giardiasis have been reported in the US, 1972-77. Data indicate that disinfection as the only treatment for surface water sources is ineffective in preventing waterborne transmission of this organism. To protect against transmission, all surface water should receive chemical pretreatment, preferably with sedimentation, and filtration in addition to disinfection. Outbreak data indicate that negative coliform tests do not provide assurance that water is free of Giardia cysts.", "PMID": 453418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10600", "title": "Successful treatment of symptomatic Entamoeba polecki infection.", "content": "The second symptomatic case of Entamoeba polecki infection, the first to respond to therapy, is reported. The patient experienced intermittent episodes of abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and malaise associated with large numbers of E. polecki cysts in the stool. Following treatment with diloxanide furoate and metronidazole, all symptoms cleared and the parasite was no longer present in the stool.", "contents": "Successful treatment of symptomatic Entamoeba polecki infection. The second symptomatic case of Entamoeba polecki infection, the first to respond to therapy, is reported. The patient experienced intermittent episodes of abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and malaise associated with large numbers of E. polecki cysts in the stool. Following treatment with diloxanide furoate and metronidazole, all symptoms cleared and the parasite was no longer present in the stool.", "PMID": 453433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10601", "title": "Host-parasite relationship in schistosomiasis mansoni in the mutation diabetic mouse (db/db).", "content": "Impairment of cell-mediated immunity has been described in chemically-induced as well as mutation diabetes in the mouse. The present report examines the host-parasite relationship during the acute phase of schistosomiasis mansoni in the mutation diabetic mouse (db/db). Cercarial penetration and maturation and egg output by adult worms were similar in the db/db mice and their littermate controls (db/+). In contrast, the pathological consequences of schistosomiasis were much less in the db/db mice. The mean liver weight computed as a percentage of body weight in db/db mice was 4.6 +/- 0.2 and following 8 weeks of infection it was 5.7 +/- 0.3 (difference is not statistically significant), whereas in infected db/+ mice it was 7.2 +/- 0.5. Infection in db/+ mice increased their mean portal pressure by 124% in contrast to an increase of only 12% in db/db animals. The most striking difference was noted in the mean granuloma diameter in the liver: 402 +/- 35 micrometer in db/+ in comparison to 147 +/- 10 micrometer in db/db mice (P less than 0.001). This study demonstrates the crucial role of the host granulomatous response in the causation of disease due to Schistosoma mansoni. Furthermore, it underlines the decreased pathological consequences when the host granulomatous response is suppressed, which can be compared to the response of modulated animals with chronic schistosomiasis.", "contents": "Host-parasite relationship in schistosomiasis mansoni in the mutation diabetic mouse (db/db). Impairment of cell-mediated immunity has been described in chemically-induced as well as mutation diabetes in the mouse. The present report examines the host-parasite relationship during the acute phase of schistosomiasis mansoni in the mutation diabetic mouse (db/db). Cercarial penetration and maturation and egg output by adult worms were similar in the db/db mice and their littermate controls (db/+). In contrast, the pathological consequences of schistosomiasis were much less in the db/db mice. The mean liver weight computed as a percentage of body weight in db/db mice was 4.6 +/- 0.2 and following 8 weeks of infection it was 5.7 +/- 0.3 (difference is not statistically significant), whereas in infected db/+ mice it was 7.2 +/- 0.5. Infection in db/+ mice increased their mean portal pressure by 124% in contrast to an increase of only 12% in db/db animals. The most striking difference was noted in the mean granuloma diameter in the liver: 402 +/- 35 micrometer in db/+ in comparison to 147 +/- 10 micrometer in db/db mice (P less than 0.001). This study demonstrates the crucial role of the host granulomatous response in the causation of disease due to Schistosoma mansoni. Furthermore, it underlines the decreased pathological consequences when the host granulomatous response is suppressed, which can be compared to the response of modulated animals with chronic schistosomiasis.", "PMID": 453435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10602", "title": "Correlation of Culex tarsalis population indices with the incidence of St. Louis encephalitis and western equine encephalomyelitis in California.", "content": "Mosquito population indices from California for the period 1953-1973 were analyzed to determine their association with activity of St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) and western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE) viruses. Culex tarsalis female populations, as measured by New Jersey light trap indices (LTI), correlated positively with the incidence rates of encephalitis in humans, and were a reliable means of forecasting the years of highest incidence. The critical level of C. tarsalis in urban areas below which no human cases of SLE and WEE were detected was an LTI of 0.1. Critical urban levels of C. tarsalis associated with significant human SLE or WEE incidence ranged between LTIs of 6.4 (for rural mosquito abatement districts [MADs] with large resident human populations). Peaks in annual incidence of SLE and WEE in humans occurred during years when seasonal average C. tarsalis female populations in urban areas reached a LTI of 21. Peaks in weekly incidence of SLE and WEE were associated, respectively, with weekly LTIs of 21 and 81 in urban traps. Isolation rates of SLE virus from mosquito pools and transmission of the virus to enzootic hosts were highest when urban LTIs were between 10 and 19.9 and between 5 and 9.9, respectively. The WEE viral isolations and enzootic transmission rates were highest when LTIs in urban areas were 1-4.9.", "contents": "Correlation of Culex tarsalis population indices with the incidence of St. Louis encephalitis and western equine encephalomyelitis in California. Mosquito population indices from California for the period 1953-1973 were analyzed to determine their association with activity of St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) and western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE) viruses. Culex tarsalis female populations, as measured by New Jersey light trap indices (LTI), correlated positively with the incidence rates of encephalitis in humans, and were a reliable means of forecasting the years of highest incidence. The critical level of C. tarsalis in urban areas below which no human cases of SLE and WEE were detected was an LTI of 0.1. Critical urban levels of C. tarsalis associated with significant human SLE or WEE incidence ranged between LTIs of 6.4 (for rural mosquito abatement districts [MADs] with large resident human populations). Peaks in annual incidence of SLE and WEE in humans occurred during years when seasonal average C. tarsalis female populations in urban areas reached a LTI of 21. Peaks in weekly incidence of SLE and WEE were associated, respectively, with weekly LTIs of 21 and 81 in urban traps. Isolation rates of SLE virus from mosquito pools and transmission of the virus to enzootic hosts were highest when urban LTIs were between 10 and 19.9 and between 5 and 9.9, respectively. The WEE viral isolations and enzootic transmission rates were highest when LTIs in urban areas were 1-4.9.", "PMID": 453436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10603", "title": "Experimental infection of vertebrates of the Pocomoke Cypress Swamp, Maryland with Keystone and Jamestown Canyon viruses.", "content": "Experimental studies were conducted to assess the susceptibility of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), and cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) to Jamestown Canyon (JC) and/or Keystone (KEY) virus infection. Viremia occurred in 5 of 6 deer inoculated with JC virus; however, all deer developed KEY virus neutralizing antibody. Based on the observation that antibody elicited by primary infection of deer with either KEY or JC virus exhibited partial heterologous neutralization in vitro, cross-challenge experiments were performed in these animals. Keystone virus failed to infect deer 30 days post primary JC virus infection; however, deer became infected when challenged with KEY virus 80 days after the initial JC virus infection as indicated by a substantial increase in antibody titer. Similarly, JC virus failed to produce viremia in immune animals infected with KEY virus 80 days previously, although 2 of the 3 animals challenged had serological evidence of infection. Three field-collected cottontail rabbits with no evidence of KEY antibody were readily susceptible to KEY virus infection and developed viremias of 1-4 days' duration; rabbits with KEY virus antibody did not develop viremia upon KEY virus challenge. Eight antibody-negative field-collected gray squirrels became viremic following injection with KEY virus; however, a comparable group of squirrels did not become viremic when injected with JC virus.", "contents": "Experimental infection of vertebrates of the Pocomoke Cypress Swamp, Maryland with Keystone and Jamestown Canyon viruses. Experimental studies were conducted to assess the susceptibility of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), and cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) to Jamestown Canyon (JC) and/or Keystone (KEY) virus infection. Viremia occurred in 5 of 6 deer inoculated with JC virus; however, all deer developed KEY virus neutralizing antibody. Based on the observation that antibody elicited by primary infection of deer with either KEY or JC virus exhibited partial heterologous neutralization in vitro, cross-challenge experiments were performed in these animals. Keystone virus failed to infect deer 30 days post primary JC virus infection; however, deer became infected when challenged with KEY virus 80 days after the initial JC virus infection as indicated by a substantial increase in antibody titer. Similarly, JC virus failed to produce viremia in immune animals infected with KEY virus 80 days previously, although 2 of the 3 animals challenged had serological evidence of infection. Three field-collected cottontail rabbits with no evidence of KEY antibody were readily susceptible to KEY virus infection and developed viremias of 1-4 days' duration; rabbits with KEY virus antibody did not develop viremia upon KEY virus challenge. Eight antibody-negative field-collected gray squirrels became viremic following injection with KEY virus; however, a comparable group of squirrels did not become viremic when injected with JC virus.", "PMID": 453437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10604", "title": "Geographic distribution of arbovirus antibodies in indigenous human populations in the Indo-Australian archipelago.", "content": "Sera from lifetime residents in 16 localities of the Indo-Australian archipelago and adjacent areas were tested for hemagglutination-inhibition antibody against four alpha-viruses (Sindbis, Getah, chikungunya, and Ross River) and for neutralizing antibody against six flaviviruses (dengue 2 and 3, Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis, Kunjin, and Edge Hill). Mosquito collections were carried out in some of the localities to study vector relationships to distribution of the arbovirus antibodies. Antibodies specific to Sindbis and Getah viruses were rare except in north Australia. Chikungunya virus-specific antibody was highly prevalent in localities of the Oriental zoogeographic region and Wallacea, rare in west New Guinea, and absent in north Australia. Age distribution of chikungunya antibody suggested that the antibody last occurred in most Indonesian localities about 30 years ago. Ross River virus-specific antibody was confined to localities of the Australian zoogeographic region. Antibodies reacting to dengue 2 and 3 viruses occurred in high frequency in the entire area of the archipelago. Antibodies specific to Murray Valley encephalitis and Kunjin viruses were also widespread although at a very low frequency. Japanese encephalitis virus-specific antibody was highly prevalent in areas west of Wallace's Line while it was absent in areas east of the line with the exception of Lombok. Antibody to Edge Hill virus was rare and confined to the Australian zoogeographic region. The distribution of arthropod vectors, vertebrate hosts, and of arboviruses are discussed in relation to zoogeographic divisions.", "contents": "Geographic distribution of arbovirus antibodies in indigenous human populations in the Indo-Australian archipelago. Sera from lifetime residents in 16 localities of the Indo-Australian archipelago and adjacent areas were tested for hemagglutination-inhibition antibody against four alpha-viruses (Sindbis, Getah, chikungunya, and Ross River) and for neutralizing antibody against six flaviviruses (dengue 2 and 3, Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis, Kunjin, and Edge Hill). Mosquito collections were carried out in some of the localities to study vector relationships to distribution of the arbovirus antibodies. Antibodies specific to Sindbis and Getah viruses were rare except in north Australia. Chikungunya virus-specific antibody was highly prevalent in localities of the Oriental zoogeographic region and Wallacea, rare in west New Guinea, and absent in north Australia. Age distribution of chikungunya antibody suggested that the antibody last occurred in most Indonesian localities about 30 years ago. Ross River virus-specific antibody was confined to localities of the Australian zoogeographic region. Antibodies reacting to dengue 2 and 3 viruses occurred in high frequency in the entire area of the archipelago. Antibodies specific to Murray Valley encephalitis and Kunjin viruses were also widespread although at a very low frequency. Japanese encephalitis virus-specific antibody was highly prevalent in areas west of Wallace's Line while it was absent in areas east of the line with the exception of Lombok. Antibody to Edge Hill virus was rare and confined to the Australian zoogeographic region. The distribution of arthropod vectors, vertebrate hosts, and of arboviruses are discussed in relation to zoogeographic divisions.", "PMID": 453438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10605", "title": "A comparison of La Crosse virus isolated obtained from different ecological niches and an analysis of the structural components of California encephalitis serogroup viruses and other bunyaviruses.", "content": "Analyses of the oligonucleotide fingerprints of the three genome ribonucleic acid (RNA) species of 11 isolates of La Crosse (LAC) virus, obtained from various ecological niches in the northern United States and compared to those of prototype LAC virus, showed that in each place from which these isolates were obtained LAC variants and varieties were present with related, but distinguishable, nucleotide sequences for their large, medium, or small RNA species. The RNA genomes of prototypes trivittatus (TVT), snowshoe hare (SSH), Tahyna (TAH), and Lumbo (a variety of TAH) viruses of the California encephalitis (CE) serogroup, and Guaroa of the Bunyamwera serogroup also consist of three RNA species, each with unique and distinguishable nucleotide sequences which bear little resemblance to those of the LAC virus isolates. The virions of CE group viruses (CE, Jamestown Canyon, Keystone, LAC, Melao, SSH, TVT, TAH viruses and South River, an unregistered virus) have three major viral polypeptides, designated G1, G2, and N.", "contents": "A comparison of La Crosse virus isolated obtained from different ecological niches and an analysis of the structural components of California encephalitis serogroup viruses and other bunyaviruses. Analyses of the oligonucleotide fingerprints of the three genome ribonucleic acid (RNA) species of 11 isolates of La Crosse (LAC) virus, obtained from various ecological niches in the northern United States and compared to those of prototype LAC virus, showed that in each place from which these isolates were obtained LAC variants and varieties were present with related, but distinguishable, nucleotide sequences for their large, medium, or small RNA species. The RNA genomes of prototypes trivittatus (TVT), snowshoe hare (SSH), Tahyna (TAH), and Lumbo (a variety of TAH) viruses of the California encephalitis (CE) serogroup, and Guaroa of the Bunyamwera serogroup also consist of three RNA species, each with unique and distinguishable nucleotide sequences which bear little resemblance to those of the LAC virus isolates. The virions of CE group viruses (CE, Jamestown Canyon, Keystone, LAC, Melao, SSH, TVT, TAH viruses and South River, an unregistered virus) have three major viral polypeptides, designated G1, G2, and N.", "PMID": 453439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10606", "title": "The investigation of related cases for the control of diarrhea in cities in developing countries.", "content": "An example of how follow-up of related cases of diarrhea by epidemiologically-oriented health promoters can result in important public health measures is described. The follow-up of related cases involved a search for an outbreak in which a population with a high attack rate could be defined in order to increase the likelihood of a successful investigation by means of a cross-sectional retrospective study design. Then, through standard epidemiologic techniques, the risk factors to be studied were selected and a questionnaire was designed and executed. The results of this investigation demonstrate that greater meticulousness in pursuing epidemiologic principles is required for success in diarrhea outbreak investigations in developing countries than in developed countries despite the fact that controllable contaminations discoverable by these techniques are much more frequent in the former. In the present investigation it was found that flavored drinks packaged in plastic by a process assuming increasing importance in food distribution were causing diarrhea because of unhygienic manufacturing procedures. A concomitant bacteriologic study helped confirm the epidemiologic findings, and bacteriologic cultures at different points in the manufacturing process suggested a solution to the contamination problem found.", "contents": "The investigation of related cases for the control of diarrhea in cities in developing countries. An example of how follow-up of related cases of diarrhea by epidemiologically-oriented health promoters can result in important public health measures is described. The follow-up of related cases involved a search for an outbreak in which a population with a high attack rate could be defined in order to increase the likelihood of a successful investigation by means of a cross-sectional retrospective study design. Then, through standard epidemiologic techniques, the risk factors to be studied were selected and a questionnaire was designed and executed. The results of this investigation demonstrate that greater meticulousness in pursuing epidemiologic principles is required for success in diarrhea outbreak investigations in developing countries than in developed countries despite the fact that controllable contaminations discoverable by these techniques are much more frequent in the former. In the present investigation it was found that flavored drinks packaged in plastic by a process assuming increasing importance in food distribution were causing diarrhea because of unhygienic manufacturing procedures. A concomitant bacteriologic study helped confirm the epidemiologic findings, and bacteriologic cultures at different points in the manufacturing process suggested a solution to the contamination problem found.", "PMID": 453440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10607", "title": "Intensive care unit treatment of acute renal failure following snake bite.", "content": "Twenty-nine patients with acute renal failure following bites by snakes of the genera Crotalus and Bothrops were treated in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Eight were given conservative treatment. Peritoneal dialysis was necessary in 21 patients, and hemodialysis in one of these. The main complications occurring while the patients were in the ICU were pulmonary edema (5 cases), respiratory failure (4), cardiac arrest (4), and hypovolemic shock (1 case). Three patients died with respiratory and hemodynamic disturbances while in the ICU, one of them during the polyuric phase. Twenty-four patients were discharged from the hospital with no clinical or laboratory evidence of renal failure. Two patients developed bilateral cortical necrosis of the kidney. One of them died in the general ward after interruption of dialysis and the other was discharged from the hospital with chronic renal failure. It was not possible to perform a kidney transplantation. The importance of the ICU in the recovery of such patients is stressed.", "contents": "Intensive care unit treatment of acute renal failure following snake bite. Twenty-nine patients with acute renal failure following bites by snakes of the genera Crotalus and Bothrops were treated in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Eight were given conservative treatment. Peritoneal dialysis was necessary in 21 patients, and hemodialysis in one of these. The main complications occurring while the patients were in the ICU were pulmonary edema (5 cases), respiratory failure (4), cardiac arrest (4), and hypovolemic shock (1 case). Three patients died with respiratory and hemodynamic disturbances while in the ICU, one of them during the polyuric phase. Twenty-four patients were discharged from the hospital with no clinical or laboratory evidence of renal failure. Two patients developed bilateral cortical necrosis of the kidney. One of them died in the general ward after interruption of dialysis and the other was discharged from the hospital with chronic renal failure. It was not possible to perform a kidney transplantation. The importance of the ICU in the recovery of such patients is stressed.", "PMID": 453441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10608", "title": "The effect of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole on Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and in vivo.", "content": "Trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) were studied alone and in combination to determine their effect in vitro on intracellular Toxoplasma gondii and in vivo against murine toxoplasmosis. In the in vitro experiments, whereas 1 and 2 microgram/ml TMP had no demonstrable effect on intracellular T. gondii, 10-20 microgram/ml TMP resulted in death of the intracellular organisms; concentrations as high as 100 microgram/ml SMZ had no demonstrable effect against the intracellular organisms. When used in combination, a significant synergistic effect was noted with 2 microgram/ml TMP-50 microgram/ml SMZ. Studies on the kinetics of inhibition and/or killing of Toxoplasma revealed that 18 hours of treatment with 2 microgram/ml TMP-50 microgram/ml SMZ resulted in irreversible inhibition of the intracellular organisms. When used in vivo against a 50,000 LD100 dose of Toxoplasma, TMP fed by gavage or mixed in the diet had no effect in murine toxoplasmosis at doses as high as 200 mg/kg a day. SMZ administered by gavage had no effect at doses up to 200 mg/kg a day; but at 300 and 400 mg/kg SMZ, protection was 47% and 83%, respectively. Treatment of infected mice was continued for 14 consecutive days, whether the drugs were administered alone or in combination. The combination 200 mg/kg TMP-200 mg/kg SMZ, when administered by gavage, protected 87% of mice. Survival after 14 days of SMZ mixed in the diet was 0% at 100 mg/kg, 47% at 200 mg/kg, and 100% at 300 mg/kg. Survival with the combination was 40% for 200 mg/kg TMP-100 mg/kg SMZ and 100% for 100 mg/kg TMP-200 mg/kg SMZ. The half-life of TMP in serum of Swiss Webster mice was calculated to be 24 min. The results obtained in vivo were inferior to those obtainable with the combination of pyrimethamine plus sulfadiazine. The problems of interpretation of results obtained in the murine model using TMP-SMZ and in their extrapolation to the treatment of the infection in man are discussed.", "contents": "The effect of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole on Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and in vivo. Trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) were studied alone and in combination to determine their effect in vitro on intracellular Toxoplasma gondii and in vivo against murine toxoplasmosis. In the in vitro experiments, whereas 1 and 2 microgram/ml TMP had no demonstrable effect on intracellular T. gondii, 10-20 microgram/ml TMP resulted in death of the intracellular organisms; concentrations as high as 100 microgram/ml SMZ had no demonstrable effect against the intracellular organisms. When used in combination, a significant synergistic effect was noted with 2 microgram/ml TMP-50 microgram/ml SMZ. Studies on the kinetics of inhibition and/or killing of Toxoplasma revealed that 18 hours of treatment with 2 microgram/ml TMP-50 microgram/ml SMZ resulted in irreversible inhibition of the intracellular organisms. When used in vivo against a 50,000 LD100 dose of Toxoplasma, TMP fed by gavage or mixed in the diet had no effect in murine toxoplasmosis at doses as high as 200 mg/kg a day. SMZ administered by gavage had no effect at doses up to 200 mg/kg a day; but at 300 and 400 mg/kg SMZ, protection was 47% and 83%, respectively. Treatment of infected mice was continued for 14 consecutive days, whether the drugs were administered alone or in combination. The combination 200 mg/kg TMP-200 mg/kg SMZ, when administered by gavage, protected 87% of mice. Survival after 14 days of SMZ mixed in the diet was 0% at 100 mg/kg, 47% at 200 mg/kg, and 100% at 300 mg/kg. Survival with the combination was 40% for 200 mg/kg TMP-100 mg/kg SMZ and 100% for 100 mg/kg TMP-200 mg/kg SMZ. The half-life of TMP in serum of Swiss Webster mice was calculated to be 24 min. The results obtained in vivo were inferior to those obtainable with the combination of pyrimethamine plus sulfadiazine. The problems of interpretation of results obtained in the murine model using TMP-SMZ and in their extrapolation to the treatment of the infection in man are discussed.", "PMID": 453442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10609", "title": "Onchocerciasis focus in Colombia: follow-up study after 12 years.", "content": "This study is a follow-up of a 1965 investigation of the only known focus of Onchocerca volvulus in Colombia. In the first phase of the current study, 254 persons were examined. Of the 19 individuals found to be infected with O. volvulus, the youngest was a 16-year-old male. Among those included in the 1965 study, 22 were examined again for microfilariae. Two were positive in both studies, 4 were positive in 1965 but negative in 1977 and the remaining 16 were negative on both occasions. The prevalence of infection, based on identification of microfilariae in skin snips, was lower in the current study (7.5%) than the 15.1% recorded 12 years earlier. However, a 50% response to the Mazzotti test (administration of oral diethylcarbamazine) among a limited number of people upstream from the previously identified endemic area suggests that infection with O. volvulus may be quite widespread.", "contents": "Onchocerciasis focus in Colombia: follow-up study after 12 years. This study is a follow-up of a 1965 investigation of the only known focus of Onchocerca volvulus in Colombia. In the first phase of the current study, 254 persons were examined. Of the 19 individuals found to be infected with O. volvulus, the youngest was a 16-year-old male. Among those included in the 1965 study, 22 were examined again for microfilariae. Two were positive in both studies, 4 were positive in 1965 but negative in 1977 and the remaining 16 were negative on both occasions. The prevalence of infection, based on identification of microfilariae in skin snips, was lower in the current study (7.5%) than the 15.1% recorded 12 years earlier. However, a 50% response to the Mazzotti test (administration of oral diethylcarbamazine) among a limited number of people upstream from the previously identified endemic area suggests that infection with O. volvulus may be quite widespread.", "PMID": 453444} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10610", "title": "Development of Onchocerca volvulus in Simulium ochraceum and Simulium metallicum.", "content": "The development of Onchocerca volvulus was compared in Simulium ochraceum and S. metallicum by maintaining infected flies under uniform conditions. Larval development in S. ochraceum was synchronous and orderly so that nearly all larvae reaching the thoracic muscles from a single blood meal matured to third-stage infective larvae within 192 hours. In contrast, development in S. metallicum was asynchronous, slower, and retarded. In this species many first-larvae were malformed and stunted after the 5th day of development; and microfilariae and first- and second-stage larvae were still present 8--10 days after a single infecting blood meal when third-stage larvae had developed. The development of O. volvulus in S. ochraceum is more compatible with the intense transmission associated with human disease.", "contents": "Development of Onchocerca volvulus in Simulium ochraceum and Simulium metallicum. The development of Onchocerca volvulus was compared in Simulium ochraceum and S. metallicum by maintaining infected flies under uniform conditions. Larval development in S. ochraceum was synchronous and orderly so that nearly all larvae reaching the thoracic muscles from a single blood meal matured to third-stage infective larvae within 192 hours. In contrast, development in S. metallicum was asynchronous, slower, and retarded. In this species many first-larvae were malformed and stunted after the 5th day of development; and microfilariae and first- and second-stage larvae were still present 8--10 days after a single infecting blood meal when third-stage larvae had developed. The development of O. volvulus in S. ochraceum is more compatible with the intense transmission associated with human disease.", "PMID": 453445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10611", "title": "Effect of diethylcarbamazine citrate on fourth stage and adult Brugia malayi in cats.", "content": "Sixty-three experimental and 58 control cats were infected with Brugia malayi so that the developing and adult worms localized in the regional lymphatics of the hind legs. At 20 days after infection when Brugia were in the 4th larval stage, and at 8 weeks when worms were young adults, cats were divided into groups to test the efficacy of diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC) at various dosage levels. At 100 mg total DEC/kg no 4th-stage larvae were seen in 5 cats compared with a mean of 20.4 living larvae in each of 5 controls. At this level of DEC, 2 of 5 cats had 1 and 2 adult worms while 4 of 4 controls had a mean of 23.2 living adult worms. At 50 and 25 mg/kg there was a substantial reduction of both 4th stage and adult worms when compared to controls. At 10 mg/kg, 4 of 6 cats had 4th-stage larvae but at a lower level (mean = 7.0) than in 6 controls (mean = 23.2). No reduction of either 4th-stage larvae or adult worms was seen at 1 mg/kg. This study establishes the efficacy of DEC against 4th-stage and adult Brugia malayi in cats, although considerably higher levels of the drug were required than the level previously determined to kill 3rd-stage larvae. It appears that the cat-B. malayi model will be an effective method to compare the efficacy of drugs against adult lymphatic-dwelling filariae.", "contents": "Effect of diethylcarbamazine citrate on fourth stage and adult Brugia malayi in cats. Sixty-three experimental and 58 control cats were infected with Brugia malayi so that the developing and adult worms localized in the regional lymphatics of the hind legs. At 20 days after infection when Brugia were in the 4th larval stage, and at 8 weeks when worms were young adults, cats were divided into groups to test the efficacy of diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC) at various dosage levels. At 100 mg total DEC/kg no 4th-stage larvae were seen in 5 cats compared with a mean of 20.4 living larvae in each of 5 controls. At this level of DEC, 2 of 5 cats had 1 and 2 adult worms while 4 of 4 controls had a mean of 23.2 living adult worms. At 50 and 25 mg/kg there was a substantial reduction of both 4th stage and adult worms when compared to controls. At 10 mg/kg, 4 of 6 cats had 4th-stage larvae but at a lower level (mean = 7.0) than in 6 controls (mean = 23.2). No reduction of either 4th-stage larvae or adult worms was seen at 1 mg/kg. This study establishes the efficacy of DEC against 4th-stage and adult Brugia malayi in cats, although considerably higher levels of the drug were required than the level previously determined to kill 3rd-stage larvae. It appears that the cat-B. malayi model will be an effective method to compare the efficacy of drugs against adult lymphatic-dwelling filariae.", "PMID": 453446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10612", "title": "Schistosomiasis control in Puerto Rico: twenty-five years of operational experience.", "content": "A program to control schistosomiasis in Puerto Rico was initiated in 1953, using limited chemotherapy and snail control by environmental, biological and chemical means. At the same time, extensive programs of water supply, health education, and free latrine distribution were underway throughout the island. The impact of the program was evaluated initially by examinations of fecal samples from first-grade children until 1966, and subsequently by island-wide surveys using adult worm antigen for skin test on fifth-graders in 1963, 1969, and 1976. There was a decrease in the proportion of children reacting positively to the skin test from 24% in 1963 to 5% in 1976. The decrease in the proportion of positive skin test reactions was one and a half times as great in the area under snail control as in the rest of the endemic area, and most of the decrease outside the snail control program was due to improved water supply. Calibration tests indicated a decrease in prevalence among the entire population, if determined by multiple fecal exams, from 15% in 1963 to less than 4% in 1976. Thus the estimated number of persons passing eggs in Puerto Rico was about 100,000 in 1976, in a population of 3 million. The cost of snail control was minimized by emphasizing environmental and biological methods, showing that the disease can be controlled on a large scale with simple techniques. Eradication of the parasite from Puerto Rico is quite likely in the next few years with the advent of the new drug, oxamniquine, and would be a cheaper strategy than continued snail control.", "contents": "Schistosomiasis control in Puerto Rico: twenty-five years of operational experience. A program to control schistosomiasis in Puerto Rico was initiated in 1953, using limited chemotherapy and snail control by environmental, biological and chemical means. At the same time, extensive programs of water supply, health education, and free latrine distribution were underway throughout the island. The impact of the program was evaluated initially by examinations of fecal samples from first-grade children until 1966, and subsequently by island-wide surveys using adult worm antigen for skin test on fifth-graders in 1963, 1969, and 1976. There was a decrease in the proportion of children reacting positively to the skin test from 24% in 1963 to 5% in 1976. The decrease in the proportion of positive skin test reactions was one and a half times as great in the area under snail control as in the rest of the endemic area, and most of the decrease outside the snail control program was due to improved water supply. Calibration tests indicated a decrease in prevalence among the entire population, if determined by multiple fecal exams, from 15% in 1963 to less than 4% in 1976. Thus the estimated number of persons passing eggs in Puerto Rico was about 100,000 in 1976, in a population of 3 million. The cost of snail control was minimized by emphasizing environmental and biological methods, showing that the disease can be controlled on a large scale with simple techniques. Eradication of the parasite from Puerto Rico is quite likely in the next few years with the advent of the new drug, oxamniquine, and would be a cheaper strategy than continued snail control.", "PMID": 453447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10613", "title": "Structure of the schistosome eggshell: amino acid analysis and incorporation of labelled amino acids.", "content": "Preparations of eggshells of Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum were hydrolyzed and analyzed for amino acid composition. Both species showed great similarities in the proportions of each residue found. The predominant amino acid in shell hydrolysates was found to be glycine, which accounted for 37% of S. mansoni and 45% of S. japonicum amino acids. Four components (glycine, aspartic acid, lysine, and serine) totalled 68--75% of amino acids in the eggshells. Other individual amino acids were present in relatively small proportions ranging from 5.2--0.01%. Less than 1% of the amino acid residues were identified as tyrosine, and bityrosine was detected at a level not exceeding 1 in 1,600 residues. Carbohydrates were estimated to comprise 7.5--10% of the eggshell weight, based on hexose assay, and glucosamine was identified as the principal amino sugar in shell hydrolysates. In vivo labelling of the S. mansoni eggshell was demonstrated following injection of C14-glycine and C14-tyrosine into infected mice and subsequent purification of the shells of eggs recovered from their liver.", "contents": "Structure of the schistosome eggshell: amino acid analysis and incorporation of labelled amino acids. Preparations of eggshells of Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum were hydrolyzed and analyzed for amino acid composition. Both species showed great similarities in the proportions of each residue found. The predominant amino acid in shell hydrolysates was found to be glycine, which accounted for 37% of S. mansoni and 45% of S. japonicum amino acids. Four components (glycine, aspartic acid, lysine, and serine) totalled 68--75% of amino acids in the eggshells. Other individual amino acids were present in relatively small proportions ranging from 5.2--0.01%. Less than 1% of the amino acid residues were identified as tyrosine, and bityrosine was detected at a level not exceeding 1 in 1,600 residues. Carbohydrates were estimated to comprise 7.5--10% of the eggshell weight, based on hexose assay, and glucosamine was identified as the principal amino sugar in shell hydrolysates. In vivo labelling of the S. mansoni eggshell was demonstrated following injection of C14-glycine and C14-tyrosine into infected mice and subsequent purification of the shells of eggs recovered from their liver.", "PMID": 453448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10614", "title": "Acedapsone in the prevention of leprosy: field trial in three high prevalence villages in Micronesia.", "content": "The 1,659 non-leprous people in a Micronesian population experiencing an annual leprosy incidence rate of about 7/1,000 were offered 15 acedapsone (DADDS) injections during 1967--1970 for leprosy prevention purposes. Subsequent annual surveillance showed an initial cessation of new cases during the 3-year DADDS campaign, followed by a resumption of cases thereafter at a yearly level of about 2/1,000 with a longer pause and slower rise among those who received the full regimen. A secondary wave of cases that has occurred since 1973 among children born after 1968 shows that post-campaign transmission occurred, probably principally from relapsing multibacillary cases with onset before the campaign. Recommendations are made for a balanced, long-term control program with DADDS preventive treatment limited to contacts of multibacillary cases.", "contents": "Acedapsone in the prevention of leprosy: field trial in three high prevalence villages in Micronesia. The 1,659 non-leprous people in a Micronesian population experiencing an annual leprosy incidence rate of about 7/1,000 were offered 15 acedapsone (DADDS) injections during 1967--1970 for leprosy prevention purposes. Subsequent annual surveillance showed an initial cessation of new cases during the 3-year DADDS campaign, followed by a resumption of cases thereafter at a yearly level of about 2/1,000 with a longer pause and slower rise among those who received the full regimen. A secondary wave of cases that has occurred since 1973 among children born after 1968 shows that post-campaign transmission occurred, probably principally from relapsing multibacillary cases with onset before the campaign. Recommendations are made for a balanced, long-term control program with DADDS preventive treatment limited to contacts of multibacillary cases.", "PMID": 453449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10615", "title": "Absence of leukocytes permissive to dengue 2 virus in the acute phase of dengue hemorrhagic fever.", "content": "Patients with primary dengue infection developed dengue 2 virus (D2V) permissive peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) 2--3 weeks after infection. PBL from healthy individuals with dengue antibody were permissive to D2V in vitro, suggesting that immunologically mediated in vitro D2V permissiveness persists for a relatively long time after recovery from dengue infection. However, PBL obtained from second infection dengue hemorrhagic fever patients did not support D2V growth during the acute phase of illness but did so during convalescence. Leukocytes from dengue-immune patients with typhoid fever or non-dengue viral illness were permissive throughout both acute and convalescent phases of illness although there was tendency for increased permissiveness during convalescence. Acute phase PBL from DHF patients synthesized and secreted dengue neutralizing antibody in culture. Absence of D2V replication in these cultures was strongly, but not completely, correlated with antibody production. Other immunological mechanisms, in addition to antibody, may be operating in vitro or in vivo during acute phase dengue hemorrhagic fever to alter the permissiveness of PBL to D2V infection.", "contents": "Absence of leukocytes permissive to dengue 2 virus in the acute phase of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Patients with primary dengue infection developed dengue 2 virus (D2V) permissive peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) 2--3 weeks after infection. PBL from healthy individuals with dengue antibody were permissive to D2V in vitro, suggesting that immunologically mediated in vitro D2V permissiveness persists for a relatively long time after recovery from dengue infection. However, PBL obtained from second infection dengue hemorrhagic fever patients did not support D2V growth during the acute phase of illness but did so during convalescence. Leukocytes from dengue-immune patients with typhoid fever or non-dengue viral illness were permissive throughout both acute and convalescent phases of illness although there was tendency for increased permissiveness during convalescence. Acute phase PBL from DHF patients synthesized and secreted dengue neutralizing antibody in culture. Absence of D2V replication in these cultures was strongly, but not completely, correlated with antibody production. Other immunological mechanisms, in addition to antibody, may be operating in vitro or in vivo during acute phase dengue hemorrhagic fever to alter the permissiveness of PBL to D2V infection.", "PMID": 453450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10616", "title": "Isolation of St. Louis encephalitis virus in South Brazil.", "content": "Eight strains of a flavivirus identified as St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) virus were isolated from wild rodents, birds, and sentinel mice in three locations in the State of S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil from 1967--1969. No illness attributable to SLE virus infection was detected among the local inhabitants, although about 5% of the local population had neutralizing antibodies to this virus.", "contents": "Isolation of St. Louis encephalitis virus in South Brazil. Eight strains of a flavivirus identified as St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) virus were isolated from wild rodents, birds, and sentinel mice in three locations in the State of S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil from 1967--1969. No illness attributable to SLE virus infection was detected among the local inhabitants, although about 5% of the local population had neutralizing antibodies to this virus.", "PMID": 453451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10617", "title": "Acquired resistance to ticks: expression of resistance by C4-deficient guinea pigs.", "content": "Hartley and C4-deficient guinea pigs developed resistance to the ixodid tick. Dermacentor andersoni, after one infestation. Resistance was characterized by resistant animals of both groups allowing significantly fewer larvae (5--25%) to engorge during a second infestation than during an initial infestation (70--90%). Resistant animals in both groups developed cutaneous reactions at the site of tick attachment which were characterized by intraepidermal vesicles containing numerous basophils. In previous studies, tick-resistant Hartley guinea pigs depleted of complement by cobra venom factor were not able to express the resistance response and the skin reactions at the tick attachment sites were depleted of basophils. The use of cobra venom factor as an anti-complement probe could not distinguish the relative importance of the classical and/or alternate pathways of complement activation in the expression of tick resistance. The present study reports that C4-deficient guinea pigs, those with a total deficiency in the classical pathway of complement activation, but with an intact alternate pathway, can acquire and display tick resistance in a fashion similar to Hartley guinea pigs. This finding provides evidence that the alternate pathway of complement activation is important in the expression of tick resistance.", "contents": "Acquired resistance to ticks: expression of resistance by C4-deficient guinea pigs. Hartley and C4-deficient guinea pigs developed resistance to the ixodid tick. Dermacentor andersoni, after one infestation. Resistance was characterized by resistant animals of both groups allowing significantly fewer larvae (5--25%) to engorge during a second infestation than during an initial infestation (70--90%). Resistant animals in both groups developed cutaneous reactions at the site of tick attachment which were characterized by intraepidermal vesicles containing numerous basophils. In previous studies, tick-resistant Hartley guinea pigs depleted of complement by cobra venom factor were not able to express the resistance response and the skin reactions at the tick attachment sites were depleted of basophils. The use of cobra venom factor as an anti-complement probe could not distinguish the relative importance of the classical and/or alternate pathways of complement activation in the expression of tick resistance. The present study reports that C4-deficient guinea pigs, those with a total deficiency in the classical pathway of complement activation, but with an intact alternate pathway, can acquire and display tick resistance in a fashion similar to Hartley guinea pigs. This finding provides evidence that the alternate pathway of complement activation is important in the expression of tick resistance.", "PMID": 453452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10618", "title": "Esophagoplasty with an autogenous tubed gastric flap.", "content": "As an esophageal substitute, a tubed gastric flap 2.5 cm in inner diameter and 38 cm in length, was constructed from the gastric wall along the greater curvature; a pedicle was attached to the gastric antrum, and its oral stump was brought up into the left supraclavicular fossa through a retrosternal tunnel to perform an esophagogastrostomy. Anastomotic breakdown occurred in only three of fifty cases in which this procedure was used.", "contents": "Esophagoplasty with an autogenous tubed gastric flap. As an esophageal substitute, a tubed gastric flap 2.5 cm in inner diameter and 38 cm in length, was constructed from the gastric wall along the greater curvature; a pedicle was attached to the gastric antrum, and its oral stump was brought up into the left supraclavicular fossa through a retrosternal tunnel to perform an esophagogastrostomy. Anastomotic breakdown occurred in only three of fifty cases in which this procedure was used.", "PMID": 453454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10619", "title": "Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and gray-scale abdominal ultrasound in the diagnosis of jaundice.", "content": "Fifty-five patients with suspected obstructive jaundice were studied with both ERCP and abdominal ultrasound. Biliary tract obstruction was documented in 49 patients and parenchymal liver disease in 7. A definite cause of jaundice was demonstrated by ERCP in 45 of 49 patients with biliary tract obstruction but in only 28 of 49 patients by ultrasound. Bile duct dilatation, where present, was detected by ERCP in only 33 of 42 patients. ERCP was particularly effective in patients with common duct stones; common duct calculi and a dilated common duct were detected in 15 of 16 such patients. Dilated bile ducts where present were detected by ultrasound in 22 of 42 patients. Ultrasound was particularly helpful in patients with pancreatic cancer in whom a dilated common duct could not be opacified during ERCP. ERCP and abdominal ultrasound together provide a rapid and safe method of diagnosis in the jaundiced patient with suspected bile duct obstruction.", "contents": "Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and gray-scale abdominal ultrasound in the diagnosis of jaundice. Fifty-five patients with suspected obstructive jaundice were studied with both ERCP and abdominal ultrasound. Biliary tract obstruction was documented in 49 patients and parenchymal liver disease in 7. A definite cause of jaundice was demonstrated by ERCP in 45 of 49 patients with biliary tract obstruction but in only 28 of 49 patients by ultrasound. Bile duct dilatation, where present, was detected by ERCP in only 33 of 42 patients. ERCP was particularly effective in patients with common duct stones; common duct calculi and a dilated common duct were detected in 15 of 16 such patients. Dilated bile ducts where present were detected by ultrasound in 22 of 42 patients. Ultrasound was particularly helpful in patients with pancreatic cancer in whom a dilated common duct could not be opacified during ERCP. ERCP and abdominal ultrasound together provide a rapid and safe method of diagnosis in the jaundiced patient with suspected bile duct obstruction.", "PMID": 453455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10620", "title": "Hemorrhagic pancreatitis.", "content": "An experience with 68 patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis identified at operation or autopsy is reported. Sixteen of the patients were subjected to operation, and 6 survived after celiotomy and peritoneal irrigation. There were no survivors in the unoperated group. Death when the pancreas is hemorrhagic and due to pancreatitis occurs an average of 10 days after the onset of symptoms or within 7 days of hospitalization. In eight patients who presented in coma, the diagnosis was not established before death. Early recognition of patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis can be facilitated by the routine use of amylase and methemalbumin determinations and peritoneal lavage. Translocation of large volumes of albumin-rich fluid from the intravascular compartment to the retroperitoneum and pleural and abdominal cavities is in part responsible for many of the signs, symptoms, and complications of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. These include hemoconcentration, hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, ascites, abdominal distress, respiratory insufficiency, and renal failure. Adequate initial resuscitation and intensive follow-up are probably the most important elements in the management of patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Careful monitoring of fluid and electrolytes and blood gases is required to avoid shock and renal and pulmonary failure. The need for careful monitoring is emphasized by the number of our patients in whom inadequacies of fluid replacement and ventilation were often not appreciated until the patient was in extremis from shock or respiratory or renal failure. Antibiotics are indicated in patients with biliary tract disease and penetrating ulcer in whom the risk of secondary infection is considerable. Associated diseases that initiated pancreatitis and that in themselves may be life-threatening, such as acute cholecystitis or cholangitis, should be promptly treated by operation. Diagnostic and therapeutic lavage are justified in the treatment of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Resection of the necrotic pancreas should be considered when the patient fails to improve after lavage and nonoperative resuscitation.", "contents": "Hemorrhagic pancreatitis. An experience with 68 patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis identified at operation or autopsy is reported. Sixteen of the patients were subjected to operation, and 6 survived after celiotomy and peritoneal irrigation. There were no survivors in the unoperated group. Death when the pancreas is hemorrhagic and due to pancreatitis occurs an average of 10 days after the onset of symptoms or within 7 days of hospitalization. In eight patients who presented in coma, the diagnosis was not established before death. Early recognition of patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis can be facilitated by the routine use of amylase and methemalbumin determinations and peritoneal lavage. Translocation of large volumes of albumin-rich fluid from the intravascular compartment to the retroperitoneum and pleural and abdominal cavities is in part responsible for many of the signs, symptoms, and complications of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. These include hemoconcentration, hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, ascites, abdominal distress, respiratory insufficiency, and renal failure. Adequate initial resuscitation and intensive follow-up are probably the most important elements in the management of patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Careful monitoring of fluid and electrolytes and blood gases is required to avoid shock and renal and pulmonary failure. The need for careful monitoring is emphasized by the number of our patients in whom inadequacies of fluid replacement and ventilation were often not appreciated until the patient was in extremis from shock or respiratory or renal failure. Antibiotics are indicated in patients with biliary tract disease and penetrating ulcer in whom the risk of secondary infection is considerable. Associated diseases that initiated pancreatitis and that in themselves may be life-threatening, such as acute cholecystitis or cholangitis, should be promptly treated by operation. Diagnostic and therapeutic lavage are justified in the treatment of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Resection of the necrotic pancreas should be considered when the patient fails to improve after lavage and nonoperative resuscitation.", "PMID": 453456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10621", "title": "Role of bilateral adrenalectomy (and oophorectomy) in the management of patients with metastatic breast cancer.", "content": "One hundred consecutive patients who underwent bilateral adrenalectomy for metastatic breast cancer with at least a 2 year \"tumor-free\" interval and with symptomatic bony, local-regional, pleural, or discrete pulmonary or mediastinal metastases had objective remission rates of 65 per cent at 6 months, 48 per cent at 12 months, 28 per cent at 18 months, and 16 per cent at 24 months.", "contents": "Role of bilateral adrenalectomy (and oophorectomy) in the management of patients with metastatic breast cancer. One hundred consecutive patients who underwent bilateral adrenalectomy for metastatic breast cancer with at least a 2 year \"tumor-free\" interval and with symptomatic bony, local-regional, pleural, or discrete pulmonary or mediastinal metastases had objective remission rates of 65 per cent at 6 months, 48 per cent at 12 months, 28 per cent at 18 months, and 16 per cent at 24 months.", "PMID": 453457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10622", "title": "Evaluation of peritoneal closure at laparotomy.", "content": "Laparotomy closure was performed in rats with and without peritoneal suture. Both paramedian and midline incisions were used. The incidence of adhesions to the parietal peritoneum was significantly higher when the peritoneum was sutured, more so with catgut. The peritoneal surface reperitonealized in 7 days when peritoneum was not sutured. The tensile and bursting strength was studied on the 7th and 14th day, and was found to be similar in both midline and paramedian incisions whether or not the peritoneum had been sutured. The same results were obtained whether continuous or interrupted sutures of the muscle sheath with monofilament nylon was used. We believe that the peritoneum should not be sutured at laparotomy closure and that a midline incision with rectus sheath closure using monofilament nylon should be used as it is less time-consuming and provides sufficient strength to the abdomen.", "contents": "Evaluation of peritoneal closure at laparotomy. Laparotomy closure was performed in rats with and without peritoneal suture. Both paramedian and midline incisions were used. The incidence of adhesions to the parietal peritoneum was significantly higher when the peritoneum was sutured, more so with catgut. The peritoneal surface reperitonealized in 7 days when peritoneum was not sutured. The tensile and bursting strength was studied on the 7th and 14th day, and was found to be similar in both midline and paramedian incisions whether or not the peritoneum had been sutured. The same results were obtained whether continuous or interrupted sutures of the muscle sheath with monofilament nylon was used. We believe that the peritoneum should not be sutured at laparotomy closure and that a midline incision with rectus sheath closure using monofilament nylon should be used as it is less time-consuming and provides sufficient strength to the abdomen.", "PMID": 453458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10623", "title": "Long-term results of femoroinfrapopliteal bypass in diabetic patients with severe ischemia of the lower extremity.", "content": "In patients with severe lower extremity ischemia (ischemic necrosis or pain at rest associated with physical findings of peripheral arterial insufficiency), diabetes mellitus should not deter thorough arteriography and consideration of arterial reconstruction. Infrapopliteal bypass can produce prolonged limb salvage in diabetic patients in lieu of primary amputation.", "contents": "Long-term results of femoroinfrapopliteal bypass in diabetic patients with severe ischemia of the lower extremity. In patients with severe lower extremity ischemia (ischemic necrosis or pain at rest associated with physical findings of peripheral arterial insufficiency), diabetes mellitus should not deter thorough arteriography and consideration of arterial reconstruction. Infrapopliteal bypass can produce prolonged limb salvage in diabetic patients in lieu of primary amputation.", "PMID": 453459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10624", "title": "Pancreatic cystadenoma of the spleen.", "content": "A cystadenoma of the pancreas within the spleen from pancreatic heterotopia is described. The tumor was located in the hilum of the spleen and completely separated from the normal pancreatic tail. This fact strongly supports the possibility that this tumor arose from pancreatic heterotopia.", "contents": "Pancreatic cystadenoma of the spleen. A cystadenoma of the pancreas within the spleen from pancreatic heterotopia is described. The tumor was located in the hilum of the spleen and completely separated from the normal pancreatic tail. This fact strongly supports the possibility that this tumor arose from pancreatic heterotopia.", "PMID": 453461} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10625", "title": "Duodenal and jejunal atresia with agenesis of the dorsal mesentery: \"apple peel\" small bowel.", "content": "Two newborn infants with duodenal and jejunal atresia and agenesis of the dorsal mesentery represent our surgical experience with \"apple peel\" small bowel or \"christmas tree\" demormity. The first patient had the typical appearance of this condition. The postoperative course was complicated by hyperbilirubinemia, septicemia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The infant is in satisfactory condition 1.5 years after operation. The second patient had agenesis of the dorsal mesentery without spiraling of the bowel around its vascular stalk. The child died after 1 month, with complete absence of extrahepatic bile ducts as seen at a second laparotomy. Neither child had been subjected to gastrostomy.", "contents": "Duodenal and jejunal atresia with agenesis of the dorsal mesentery: \"apple peel\" small bowel. Two newborn infants with duodenal and jejunal atresia and agenesis of the dorsal mesentery represent our surgical experience with \"apple peel\" small bowel or \"christmas tree\" demormity. The first patient had the typical appearance of this condition. The postoperative course was complicated by hyperbilirubinemia, septicemia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The infant is in satisfactory condition 1.5 years after operation. The second patient had agenesis of the dorsal mesentery without spiraling of the bowel around its vascular stalk. The child died after 1 month, with complete absence of extrahepatic bile ducts as seen at a second laparotomy. Neither child had been subjected to gastrostomy.", "PMID": 453462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10626", "title": "Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis. Report of two cases involving the descending colon.", "content": "Two cases of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis of the descending colon are described in which the presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and changed bowel habits, respectively. The diagnosis in both cases was established radiologically and sigmoidoscopically. Because the symptoms were persistent and severe, surgical excision of the involved segment of the large bowel was performed. The postoperative result was good and both patients remain free of symptoms.", "contents": "Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis. Report of two cases involving the descending colon. Two cases of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis of the descending colon are described in which the presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and changed bowel habits, respectively. The diagnosis in both cases was established radiologically and sigmoidoscopically. Because the symptoms were persistent and severe, surgical excision of the involved segment of the large bowel was performed. The postoperative result was good and both patients remain free of symptoms.", "PMID": 453463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10627", "title": "A safe method for pyloromyotomy.", "content": "Pyloromyotomy often ends up as a pyloroplasty because of accidental lesions on the duodenal mucosa. This can be avoided. If the incision in the serosa is Y-shaped, the fold of mucosa that partly covers the pyloric muscle can be pushed distally and escape being punctured.", "contents": "A safe method for pyloromyotomy. Pyloromyotomy often ends up as a pyloroplasty because of accidental lesions on the duodenal mucosa. This can be avoided. If the incision in the serosa is Y-shaped, the fold of mucosa that partly covers the pyloric muscle can be pushed distally and escape being punctured.", "PMID": 453464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10628", "title": "Technic of resection of mesenteric tumors.", "content": "In the resection of mesenteric tumors or primary malignant lesions of the small bowel, exposure of the superior mesenteric vessels is important. This is the necessary criterion of resectability and the condition of obtaining maximal margins in the lymphatic drainage area. It also helps avoid unnecessary sacrifice of branches and tributaries to the superior mesenteric vessels from uninvolved portions of the bowel.", "contents": "Technic of resection of mesenteric tumors. In the resection of mesenteric tumors or primary malignant lesions of the small bowel, exposure of the superior mesenteric vessels is important. This is the necessary criterion of resectability and the condition of obtaining maximal margins in the lymphatic drainage area. It also helps avoid unnecessary sacrifice of branches and tributaries to the superior mesenteric vessels from uninvolved portions of the bowel.", "PMID": 453465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10629", "title": "Upper limb ischemia resulting from arterial thromboembolism.", "content": "Acute ischemia of the upper limb is commonly caused by trauma and embolic arterial occlusion. However, primary atherosclerotic thrombosis is found infrequently and concern regarding its incidence, recognition, and treatment prompted a review of our clinical experience. Of 36 patients with acute ischemia of the upper limb, 17 (47.2 per cent) had embolic occlusion, 9 (25 per cent) iatrogenic thrombosis in the brachial artery, and 10 (27.8 per cent) primary arterial thrombosis. Of the total group, noncardiac arterial emboli (two patients) and primary atherosclerotic thrombosis (six patients) accounted for 8 of 36 (22.2 per cent) ischemic limbs. Including 2 additional patients who had atherosclerotic thrombosis associated with trauma, the total number represented 10 of 36 (27.8 per cent). An aggressive approach to the undiagnosed patient with acute ischemia of the upper limb is warranted, including the use of arteriography in most cases. In patients with iatrogenic thrombosis in the brachial artery, we believe that the routine use of intraoperative arteriograms may improve the operative results.", "contents": "Upper limb ischemia resulting from arterial thromboembolism. Acute ischemia of the upper limb is commonly caused by trauma and embolic arterial occlusion. However, primary atherosclerotic thrombosis is found infrequently and concern regarding its incidence, recognition, and treatment prompted a review of our clinical experience. Of 36 patients with acute ischemia of the upper limb, 17 (47.2 per cent) had embolic occlusion, 9 (25 per cent) iatrogenic thrombosis in the brachial artery, and 10 (27.8 per cent) primary arterial thrombosis. Of the total group, noncardiac arterial emboli (two patients) and primary atherosclerotic thrombosis (six patients) accounted for 8 of 36 (22.2 per cent) ischemic limbs. Including 2 additional patients who had atherosclerotic thrombosis associated with trauma, the total number represented 10 of 36 (27.8 per cent). An aggressive approach to the undiagnosed patient with acute ischemia of the upper limb is warranted, including the use of arteriography in most cases. In patients with iatrogenic thrombosis in the brachial artery, we believe that the routine use of intraoperative arteriograms may improve the operative results.", "PMID": 453466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10630", "title": "Factors influencing the complications of colostomy closure.", "content": "This retrospective review of 206 colostomy closures performed by different methods and at various intervals from the time of creation of the stoma suggests that attention to meticulous surgical technic is the most important factor in limiting the morbidity and mortality of this commonly performed procedure. Considerations of the location and type of colostomy, timing, method of closure, and patient population seem to be less importnat than suggested in previous reports.", "contents": "Factors influencing the complications of colostomy closure. This retrospective review of 206 colostomy closures performed by different methods and at various intervals from the time of creation of the stoma suggests that attention to meticulous surgical technic is the most important factor in limiting the morbidity and mortality of this commonly performed procedure. Considerations of the location and type of colostomy, timing, method of closure, and patient population seem to be less importnat than suggested in previous reports.", "PMID": 453467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10631", "title": "Relation between immunity and survival in carcinoma of the colon and rectum.", "content": "Twenty-two patients with cancer of the colon and rectum were evaluated before and after surgical treatment by leukocyte migration inhibition assays using autologous and allogeneic tumor extracts. All patients were resected for cure. Patients with cancer of the colon demonstrated significant migration inhibition against autologous extracts before surgery and in the immediate postoperative period. Patients with rectal cancer did not demonstrate significant migration inhibition at any time. The possibility that immunity plays a role in the poorer prognosis of patients with rectal cancer is discussed.", "contents": "Relation between immunity and survival in carcinoma of the colon and rectum. Twenty-two patients with cancer of the colon and rectum were evaluated before and after surgical treatment by leukocyte migration inhibition assays using autologous and allogeneic tumor extracts. All patients were resected for cure. Patients with cancer of the colon demonstrated significant migration inhibition against autologous extracts before surgery and in the immediate postoperative period. Patients with rectal cancer did not demonstrate significant migration inhibition at any time. The possibility that immunity plays a role in the poorer prognosis of patients with rectal cancer is discussed.", "PMID": 453468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10632", "title": "Intraarterial infusion chemotherapy (5-fluorouracil) in patients with inextirpable or locally recurrent rectal cancer.", "content": "A retrospective analysis of the results of treatment of advanced rectal cancer of the pelvis with regional intraarterial infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is reported. A special technic for positioning the catheters selectively in the internal iliac arteries justifies this analysis. Four patients with primary inextirpable rectal cancer and 10 patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer have been treated. No immediate mortality was noted. Relief of pain was noted in two-thirds of the patients. An objective tumor response was noted in three patients with locally recurrent disease. In one patient with primary inoperable cancer it was possible to extirpate the tumor after infusion therapy. An improvement in quality of life during the first 2 months after therapy was achieved in half of the patients as judged by their performance. Complications were not serious. Hematomas with infection were seen in one patient, two patients had septicemia, and three patients had transient oliguria. Transient thrombocytopenia was reported in two patients. The results indicate that infusion therapy produces a reasonable response such as palliation of pain. Only minor complications were seen and easily controlled. The advantages of infusion therapy are that it can be given in a reasonable time with only a short hospital stay.", "contents": "Intraarterial infusion chemotherapy (5-fluorouracil) in patients with inextirpable or locally recurrent rectal cancer. A retrospective analysis of the results of treatment of advanced rectal cancer of the pelvis with regional intraarterial infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is reported. A special technic for positioning the catheters selectively in the internal iliac arteries justifies this analysis. Four patients with primary inextirpable rectal cancer and 10 patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer have been treated. No immediate mortality was noted. Relief of pain was noted in two-thirds of the patients. An objective tumor response was noted in three patients with locally recurrent disease. In one patient with primary inoperable cancer it was possible to extirpate the tumor after infusion therapy. An improvement in quality of life during the first 2 months after therapy was achieved in half of the patients as judged by their performance. Complications were not serious. Hematomas with infection were seen in one patient, two patients had septicemia, and three patients had transient oliguria. Transient thrombocytopenia was reported in two patients. The results indicate that infusion therapy produces a reasonable response such as palliation of pain. Only minor complications were seen and easily controlled. The advantages of infusion therapy are that it can be given in a reasonable time with only a short hospital stay.", "PMID": 453469} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10633", "title": "Surgical significance of the histopathology of the common bile duct.", "content": "Silver biopsies of the common bile duct were obtained from 15 patients with clinical and surgical evidence of cholangitis. The most pronounced histologic changes were edema, congestion, and marked mucous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia. No ulceration, intramural abscess, or areas of necrosis were found. Clinical cholangitis is not associated with necrotizing changes in the duct wall. This fact is the histologic basis for satisfactory healing of choledochal enteric anastomoses performed in the presence of cholangitis.", "contents": "Surgical significance of the histopathology of the common bile duct. Silver biopsies of the common bile duct were obtained from 15 patients with clinical and surgical evidence of cholangitis. The most pronounced histologic changes were edema, congestion, and marked mucous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia. No ulceration, intramural abscess, or areas of necrosis were found. Clinical cholangitis is not associated with necrotizing changes in the duct wall. This fact is the histologic basis for satisfactory healing of choledochal enteric anastomoses performed in the presence of cholangitis.", "PMID": 453470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10634", "title": "Resectability and functional reserve of the liver with obstructive jaundice in dogs.", "content": "Fifty-five dogs were used to evaluate the resectability of the liver with obstructive jaundice. Cholecystectomy and ligation of the distal common bile duct were used to produce obstructive jaundice. It was found that 40 per cent of the liver with obstructive jaundice was resectable with biliary decompression 2 weeks after ligation. At 1 week after induction of obstructive jaundice, 70 per cent hepatectomy with biliary decompression may be tolerated with careful postoperative management. From serum chemical studies it was found that if the serum albumin level was below 2.0 g/dl, 60 per cent of the dogs died after 40 per cent hepatectomy and all died after 70 per cent hepatectomy. From the standpoint of hepatic functional reserve 40 per cent hepatectomy is successful if the maximal removal rate of indocyanine green is above 0.14 mg/kg/min. Hepatic functional reserve is reliable for predicting the risk of hepatectomy, and it correlates well with the rate of hepatic regeneration after hepatectomy.", "contents": "Resectability and functional reserve of the liver with obstructive jaundice in dogs. Fifty-five dogs were used to evaluate the resectability of the liver with obstructive jaundice. Cholecystectomy and ligation of the distal common bile duct were used to produce obstructive jaundice. It was found that 40 per cent of the liver with obstructive jaundice was resectable with biliary decompression 2 weeks after ligation. At 1 week after induction of obstructive jaundice, 70 per cent hepatectomy with biliary decompression may be tolerated with careful postoperative management. From serum chemical studies it was found that if the serum albumin level was below 2.0 g/dl, 60 per cent of the dogs died after 40 per cent hepatectomy and all died after 70 per cent hepatectomy. From the standpoint of hepatic functional reserve 40 per cent hepatectomy is successful if the maximal removal rate of indocyanine green is above 0.14 mg/kg/min. Hepatic functional reserve is reliable for predicting the risk of hepatectomy, and it correlates well with the rate of hepatic regeneration after hepatectomy.", "PMID": 453471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10635", "title": "Analysis of benign breast lesions in blacks.", "content": "A clinicopathologic analysis of 202 benign breast lesions in black women is presented. The study shows that the peak incidence of fibroadenoma occurs at an earlier age in black than in white patients. Fibrocystic disease is most frequent in both black and white patients between 25 and 45 years of age. It is noteworthy that nulliparous adolescent blacks have a higher risk of fibroadenoma developing and our findings confirm the observation made by Funderburk et al [5] and Nigro and Organ [6] that the incidence of fibroadenoma in blacks is high. The low incidence of fibrocystic disease in our patients does not reflect the clinical incidence of the disease because most patients with fibrocystic disease do not undergo biopsy. We are unable to draw any conclusions about the relation between the use of oral contraceptives and the incidence of benign breast disease. In conclusion, a review of the literature and an analysis of our data suggest a relatively higher incidence of fibroadenoma among black patients. In contrast to the finding in the white population, it appears that in blacks fibroadenoma is more common than carcinoma of the breast.", "contents": "Analysis of benign breast lesions in blacks. A clinicopathologic analysis of 202 benign breast lesions in black women is presented. The study shows that the peak incidence of fibroadenoma occurs at an earlier age in black than in white patients. Fibrocystic disease is most frequent in both black and white patients between 25 and 45 years of age. It is noteworthy that nulliparous adolescent blacks have a higher risk of fibroadenoma developing and our findings confirm the observation made by Funderburk et al [5] and Nigro and Organ [6] that the incidence of fibroadenoma in blacks is high. The low incidence of fibrocystic disease in our patients does not reflect the clinical incidence of the disease because most patients with fibrocystic disease do not undergo biopsy. We are unable to draw any conclusions about the relation between the use of oral contraceptives and the incidence of benign breast disease. In conclusion, a review of the literature and an analysis of our data suggest a relatively higher incidence of fibroadenoma among black patients. In contrast to the finding in the white population, it appears that in blacks fibroadenoma is more common than carcinoma of the breast.", "PMID": 453472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10636", "title": "Hypercalcemia and malignant melanoma.", "content": "Malignant melanoma occurs in approximately 1.7 per cent of all patients admitted to the Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, and approximately 1.8 per cent of patients admitted with hypercalcemia and malignant disease. The incidence of hypercalcemia and malignant melanoma is 1.1 per cent. Bone metastases are diagnosed before death in approximately 5.2 per cent of patients with malignant melanoma. The cause of hypercalcemia in our patients appears to be bone metastases in 83.3 per cent and primary hyperparathyroidism in 16.9 per cent.", "contents": "Hypercalcemia and malignant melanoma. Malignant melanoma occurs in approximately 1.7 per cent of all patients admitted to the Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, and approximately 1.8 per cent of patients admitted with hypercalcemia and malignant disease. The incidence of hypercalcemia and malignant melanoma is 1.1 per cent. Bone metastases are diagnosed before death in approximately 5.2 per cent of patients with malignant melanoma. The cause of hypercalcemia in our patients appears to be bone metastases in 83.3 per cent and primary hyperparathyroidism in 16.9 per cent.", "PMID": 453473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10637", "title": "Treatment of postradiation stricuture of the rectum by the modified Duhamel procedure.", "content": "Benign rectosigmoid stenosis secondary to pelvic radiation presents a difficult problem in management and is usually treated by permanent colostomy with its attendant discomfort and inconvenience. Other approaches include low anterior resection or even transsacral resection of the affected area of rectosigmoid, but they involve risk to rectal, bladder, and sexual function. The Martin modification of the Duhamel procedure is specifically designed to avoid these problems and was used successfully in the present case for treatment of rectosigmoid stenosis. The patient has been followed up 8 years and reports normal sensation and function of bladder and rectum and no disturbance of sexual function.", "contents": "Treatment of postradiation stricuture of the rectum by the modified Duhamel procedure. Benign rectosigmoid stenosis secondary to pelvic radiation presents a difficult problem in management and is usually treated by permanent colostomy with its attendant discomfort and inconvenience. Other approaches include low anterior resection or even transsacral resection of the affected area of rectosigmoid, but they involve risk to rectal, bladder, and sexual function. The Martin modification of the Duhamel procedure is specifically designed to avoid these problems and was used successfully in the present case for treatment of rectosigmoid stenosis. The patient has been followed up 8 years and reports normal sensation and function of bladder and rectum and no disturbance of sexual function.", "PMID": 453474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10638", "title": "Acute torsion of the gallbladder.", "content": "Torsion of the gallbladder is an uncommon process that is usually found at the time of exploration for an acute surgical abdomen. It results from two congenital anomalies and may be complete or partial. It should be considered in the etiology of what appears to be acute cholecystitis in the elderly, thereby prompting early surgical management. Two cases are presented to help define the true incidence of this process.", "contents": "Acute torsion of the gallbladder. Torsion of the gallbladder is an uncommon process that is usually found at the time of exploration for an acute surgical abdomen. It results from two congenital anomalies and may be complete or partial. It should be considered in the etiology of what appears to be acute cholecystitis in the elderly, thereby prompting early surgical management. Two cases are presented to help define the true incidence of this process.", "PMID": 453475} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10639", "title": "Management of aortocaval fistula due to abdominal aortic aneurysm.", "content": "Anasarca and intractable congestive heart failure were the presenting signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm with aortocaval fistula. Management with careful monitoring of cardiovascular function using a Swan-Ganz catheter before, during, and after surgery resulted in an uneventful recovery.", "contents": "Management of aortocaval fistula due to abdominal aortic aneurysm. Anasarca and intractable congestive heart failure were the presenting signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm with aortocaval fistula. Management with careful monitoring of cardiovascular function using a Swan-Ganz catheter before, during, and after surgery resulted in an uneventful recovery.", "PMID": 453477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10640", "title": "Corrosive injury to the stomach: the natural history and role of fiberoptic endoscopy.", "content": "Most physicians recognize that the ingestion of lye is associated with severe esophageal damage. It is much less widely known that gastric injury is the predominant finding when acid is ingested. We are reporting on five patients who had severe gastric damage after ingestion of diluted sulfuric acid (three cases), capsules of potassium hydroxide, and Clinitest tablets (one case each). Fiberoptic endoscopy was used to localize the extent and severity of injury and to follow the evolution of the damage. The extent and location of injury varied with the amount and type of agent ingested. Acid ingestion resulted in severe gastritis, which eventually led to antral stenosis and gastric outlet obstruction requiring operative intervention in two cases. Potassium hydroxide capsules produced diffuse esophagitis, gastritis, and a non-healing large gastric ulcer. Clinitest tablets produced distal esophagitis and stricture and antral damage leading to gastric outlet obstruction which required operative intervention. These cases demonstrate the natural history of corrosive injury to the stomach and the value of fiberoptic endoscopy in the management of this problem.", "contents": "Corrosive injury to the stomach: the natural history and role of fiberoptic endoscopy. Most physicians recognize that the ingestion of lye is associated with severe esophageal damage. It is much less widely known that gastric injury is the predominant finding when acid is ingested. We are reporting on five patients who had severe gastric damage after ingestion of diluted sulfuric acid (three cases), capsules of potassium hydroxide, and Clinitest tablets (one case each). Fiberoptic endoscopy was used to localize the extent and severity of injury and to follow the evolution of the damage. The extent and location of injury varied with the amount and type of agent ingested. Acid ingestion resulted in severe gastritis, which eventually led to antral stenosis and gastric outlet obstruction requiring operative intervention in two cases. Potassium hydroxide capsules produced diffuse esophagitis, gastritis, and a non-healing large gastric ulcer. Clinitest tablets produced distal esophagitis and stricture and antral damage leading to gastric outlet obstruction which required operative intervention. These cases demonstrate the natural history of corrosive injury to the stomach and the value of fiberoptic endoscopy in the management of this problem.", "PMID": 453476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10641", "title": "Mesenteric revascularization: an operative approach.", "content": "Chronic intestinal ischemia was successfully treated with isolated superior mesenteric revascularization despite the involvement of multiple visceral arteries. An operative approach was used in which both the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery were exposed in the area between the inferior border of the pancreas and the superior border of the fourth portion of the duodenum. This approach is applicable in thin patients and allows a short, horizontal graft that appears to increase long-term patency.", "contents": "Mesenteric revascularization: an operative approach. Chronic intestinal ischemia was successfully treated with isolated superior mesenteric revascularization despite the involvement of multiple visceral arteries. An operative approach was used in which both the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery were exposed in the area between the inferior border of the pancreas and the superior border of the fourth portion of the duodenum. This approach is applicable in thin patients and allows a short, horizontal graft that appears to increase long-term patency.", "PMID": 453478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10642", "title": "Improved cannula for operative (cystic duct) cholangiography.", "content": "A new S-shaped cystic duct metal cannula was developed and used successfully in 200 cystic duct cholangiograms. It has the advantage of being easy to manipulate because the configuration does not obscure the vision and the resistance is less than that of plastic tubes, facilitating injection with lower pressure. It is much cheaper than the disposable cannulas because it can be reused (autoclaved).", "contents": "Improved cannula for operative (cystic duct) cholangiography. A new S-shaped cystic duct metal cannula was developed and used successfully in 200 cystic duct cholangiograms. It has the advantage of being easy to manipulate because the configuration does not obscure the vision and the resistance is less than that of plastic tubes, facilitating injection with lower pressure. It is much cheaper than the disposable cannulas because it can be reused (autoclaved).", "PMID": 453480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10643", "title": "A study of HLA antigen distribution in families with atopic dermatitis.", "content": "Seventeen children presenting with atopic dermatitis were HLA typed together with their parents and siblings. A total of 89 individuals was studied. No close link between HLA antigen distribution and clinical expression of atopy was demonstrated, and 14 HLA identical but disease-free siblings were identified. An increase in the A1 B8 haplotype was observed in the families as a whole by comparison with a large control series.", "contents": "A study of HLA antigen distribution in families with atopic dermatitis. Seventeen children presenting with atopic dermatitis were HLA typed together with their parents and siblings. A total of 89 individuals was studied. No close link between HLA antigen distribution and clinical expression of atopy was demonstrated, and 14 HLA identical but disease-free siblings were identified. An increase in the A1 B8 haplotype was observed in the families as a whole by comparison with a large control series.", "PMID": 453484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10644", "title": "Antibody-dependent monocyte-mediated cytotoxicity in severe atopic dermatitis.", "content": "Antibody-dependent monocyte-mediated cytotoxicity was studied in nine patients with severe atopic dermatitis during flares of their disease. In all cases the cytotoxicity was depressed. The disturbed function may contribute to the severe cutaneous infections seen in these patients. It remains to be seen if these patients have an intrinsic monocyte defect or if an inhibiting factor only is operating during active disease states.", "contents": "Antibody-dependent monocyte-mediated cytotoxicity in severe atopic dermatitis. Antibody-dependent monocyte-mediated cytotoxicity was studied in nine patients with severe atopic dermatitis during flares of their disease. In all cases the cytotoxicity was depressed. The disturbed function may contribute to the severe cutaneous infections seen in these patients. It remains to be seen if these patients have an intrinsic monocyte defect or if an inhibiting factor only is operating during active disease states.", "PMID": 453485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10645", "title": "Occupational allergy in nurses to a bulk laxative.", "content": "Finely ground psyllium (Plantago ovata) seeds, so-called ispaghula powder is used in bulk laxatives. During the dispensing of these medicines some dust is generated. Allergic symptoms from exposure to this dust was reported by two nurses, one of whom was wroking in a department where exposure to the powder could be considered high. Nineteen other subjects working in the same department were investigated with regard to allergy to ispaghula powder. An extract from ispaghula powder was made and used in RAST and skin tests. Exposure tests with ispaghula powder mixed with crushed rusks were made in symptomatic subjects. Eight out of the 20 investigated subjects from this department reported symptoms which could possibly have been elicited by ispaghula powder. Evidence of sensitization was found in five of them. The use of less dusty (granulated) forms of ispaghula laxatives might diminish the risk of sensitization.", "contents": "Occupational allergy in nurses to a bulk laxative. Finely ground psyllium (Plantago ovata) seeds, so-called ispaghula powder is used in bulk laxatives. During the dispensing of these medicines some dust is generated. Allergic symptoms from exposure to this dust was reported by two nurses, one of whom was wroking in a department where exposure to the powder could be considered high. Nineteen other subjects working in the same department were investigated with regard to allergy to ispaghula powder. An extract from ispaghula powder was made and used in RAST and skin tests. Exposure tests with ispaghula powder mixed with crushed rusks were made in symptomatic subjects. Eight out of the 20 investigated subjects from this department reported symptoms which could possibly have been elicited by ispaghula powder. Evidence of sensitization was found in five of them. The use of less dusty (granulated) forms of ispaghula laxatives might diminish the risk of sensitization.", "PMID": 453486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10646", "title": "Methohexitone and etomidate for bronchoscopy.", "content": "General anaesthesia for bronchoscopy has been provided with either methohexitone or etomidate, with and without fentanyl. Recovery was faster following methohexitone and there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications. Inclusion of fentanyl in the technique did not confer any benefits with either drug.", "contents": "Methohexitone and etomidate for bronchoscopy. General anaesthesia for bronchoscopy has been provided with either methohexitone or etomidate, with and without fentanyl. Recovery was faster following methohexitone and there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications. Inclusion of fentanyl in the technique did not confer any benefits with either drug.", "PMID": 453495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10647", "title": "The ocular effects of etomidate.", "content": "Etomidate, a new intravenous hypnotic agent, significantly lowered the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) of fifty patients within 30 s of an intravenous injection from 15.7 to 9.5 mmHg. This effect was present even during the administration (to twenty patients) of low doses (0.25 mg/kg) when the mean reduction was from 15.6 to 7.6 mmHg. The reduction in IOP was unaffected by the presence of muscle movement. Low frequency pendular nystagmus was observed in five patients.", "contents": "The ocular effects of etomidate. Etomidate, a new intravenous hypnotic agent, significantly lowered the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) of fifty patients within 30 s of an intravenous injection from 15.7 to 9.5 mmHg. This effect was present even during the administration (to twenty patients) of low doses (0.25 mg/kg) when the mean reduction was from 15.6 to 7.6 mmHg. The reduction in IOP was unaffected by the presence of muscle movement. Low frequency pendular nystagmus was observed in five patients.", "PMID": 453496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10648", "title": "A complication of subarachnoid phenol blockade.", "content": "The authors have described a fatal complication which occurred after a cervical subarachnoid block with phenol in glycerine. As a result of this experience they advocate the use of a dose of phenol of not more than 2 ml, which is smaller than that sometimes recommended, and also emphasise most strongly the importance of careful positioning of the patient.", "contents": "A complication of subarachnoid phenol blockade. The authors have described a fatal complication which occurred after a cervical subarachnoid block with phenol in glycerine. As a result of this experience they advocate the use of a dose of phenol of not more than 2 ml, which is smaller than that sometimes recommended, and also emphasise most strongly the importance of careful positioning of the patient.", "PMID": 453497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10649", "title": "O2 and N2O analysis with a single intravascular catheter electrode. An in-vitro study.", "content": "The simultaneous measurement of O2 and N2O in liquid, using a single polarographic catheter electrode, is described. It is shown that commercial PO2 intravascular electrodes, with silver cathodes, produce separate and distinct polarograms for O2 and N2O, and that these electrodes can be used for the measurement of both PO2 and PN2O.", "contents": "O2 and N2O analysis with a single intravascular catheter electrode. An in-vitro study. The simultaneous measurement of O2 and N2O in liquid, using a single polarographic catheter electrode, is described. It is shown that commercial PO2 intravascular electrodes, with silver cathodes, produce separate and distinct polarograms for O2 and N2O, and that these electrodes can be used for the measurement of both PO2 and PN2O.", "PMID": 453498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10650", "title": "Cardiac pacemaker insertion: a study of the anaesthetic and postoperative complications.", "content": "One hundred and three patients undergoing pacing procedures have been studied, the majority requiring the insertion of an epicardial system under general anaesthesia. The main findings were of an elderly group of patients with a high incidence of associated disease, who suffered predominantly from pulmonary and renal complications. Methods of reducing these complications, particularly in relation to general anaesthesia are discussed.", "contents": "Cardiac pacemaker insertion: a study of the anaesthetic and postoperative complications. One hundred and three patients undergoing pacing procedures have been studied, the majority requiring the insertion of an epicardial system under general anaesthesia. The main findings were of an elderly group of patients with a high incidence of associated disease, who suffered predominantly from pulmonary and renal complications. Methods of reducing these complications, particularly in relation to general anaesthesia are discussed.", "PMID": 453499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10651", "title": "The use of procaine hydrochloride as a continuous lumbar epidural technique in labour.", "content": "A continuous technique for lumbar epidural during labour is described, using procaine hydrochloride without adrenaline. An investigation was undertaken to determine the action of procaine in labour, to determine whether this drug could facilitate a normal delivery and to study maternal and fetal blood procaine levels. The technique, although successful, offered no specific advantages.", "contents": "The use of procaine hydrochloride as a continuous lumbar epidural technique in labour. A continuous technique for lumbar epidural during labour is described, using procaine hydrochloride without adrenaline. An investigation was undertaken to determine the action of procaine in labour, to determine whether this drug could facilitate a normal delivery and to study maternal and fetal blood procaine levels. The technique, although successful, offered no specific advantages.", "PMID": 453500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10652", "title": "Plasma potassium, sodium and blood sugar following etomidate and suxamethonium.", "content": "Changes in plasma potassium, sodium and blood sugar were studied in Nigerian patients following induction of anaesthesia with etomidate and suxamethonium. Healthy patients presenting for elective surgery as well as psychiatric patients presenting for electroconvulsive therapy were studied. Plasma potasium was essentially unaffected by etomidate administration, but rose significantly when suxamethonium was given. This rise was higher than that observed with thiopentone and suxamethonium in a previous study on a similar group of Nigerians. Blood sugar was not significantly increased by the administration of etomidate but rose significantly after suxamethonium was given. This hyperglycaemic response was greater than when thiopentone was used as the induction agent. Administration of ECT was associated with a further increase in blood sugar. It is concluded that thiopentone is preferable to etomidate in situations where increases in plasma potassium and blood sugar are undesirable following administration of suxamethonium.", "contents": "Plasma potassium, sodium and blood sugar following etomidate and suxamethonium. Changes in plasma potassium, sodium and blood sugar were studied in Nigerian patients following induction of anaesthesia with etomidate and suxamethonium. Healthy patients presenting for elective surgery as well as psychiatric patients presenting for electroconvulsive therapy were studied. Plasma potasium was essentially unaffected by etomidate administration, but rose significantly when suxamethonium was given. This rise was higher than that observed with thiopentone and suxamethonium in a previous study on a similar group of Nigerians. Blood sugar was not significantly increased by the administration of etomidate but rose significantly after suxamethonium was given. This hyperglycaemic response was greater than when thiopentone was used as the induction agent. Administration of ECT was associated with a further increase in blood sugar. It is concluded that thiopentone is preferable to etomidate in situations where increases in plasma potassium and blood sugar are undesirable following administration of suxamethonium.", "PMID": 453501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10653", "title": "Continuous epidural infusion of bupivacaine in labour: a simple method.", "content": "Thirty patients were given a constant epidural infusion in labour by gravity feed drip of approximately 10 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine per hr. The infusion proved a simple and reliable method of ensuring adequate analgesia throughout labour. There were no problems of drug toxicity and the incidence of complications and side effects was comparable to a previous series using intermittent 0.5% bupivacaine.", "contents": "Continuous epidural infusion of bupivacaine in labour: a simple method. Thirty patients were given a constant epidural infusion in labour by gravity feed drip of approximately 10 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine per hr. The infusion proved a simple and reliable method of ensuring adequate analgesia throughout labour. There were no problems of drug toxicity and the incidence of complications and side effects was comparable to a previous series using intermittent 0.5% bupivacaine.", "PMID": 453503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10654", "title": "The reduction of amnesic wakefulness during caesarean section.", "content": "Wakefulness during general anaesthesia was assessed by the isolated forearm technique in two groups of patients for Caesarean section. The anaesthetic was based on the use of oxygen 66%, nitrous oxide 33% and halothane 0.4% during the induction delivery interval. There was a highly significant reduction in wakefulness in the Group who received nitrous oxide at 66% for the first 3 min only. The wakefulness was amnesic in all cases.", "contents": "The reduction of amnesic wakefulness during caesarean section. Wakefulness during general anaesthesia was assessed by the isolated forearm technique in two groups of patients for Caesarean section. The anaesthetic was based on the use of oxygen 66%, nitrous oxide 33% and halothane 0.4% during the induction delivery interval. There was a highly significant reduction in wakefulness in the Group who received nitrous oxide at 66% for the first 3 min only. The wakefulness was amnesic in all cases.", "PMID": 453504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10655", "title": "Thiopentone anaphylaxis.", "content": "A fit young mother had a severe anaphylactic response to intravenous injection of sodium thiopentone, having been sensitised nearly 20 years previously.", "contents": "Thiopentone anaphylaxis. A fit young mother had a severe anaphylactic response to intravenous injection of sodium thiopentone, having been sensitised nearly 20 years previously.", "PMID": 453505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10656", "title": "Skin depigmentation associated with intravenous anaesthetic induction agents.", "content": "A case of skin depigmentation associated with intravenous anaesthetic induction agents is described. The differential diagnosis is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Skin depigmentation associated with intravenous anaesthetic induction agents. A case of skin depigmentation associated with intravenous anaesthetic induction agents is described. The differential diagnosis is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 453506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10657", "title": "Anaphylactoid response to intravenous tubocurarine.", "content": "A case of severe anaphylactoid reaction to tubocurarine in a 42-year-old female is described. This is particularly notable as there was no history of past allergies or of previous exposure to the drug.", "contents": "Anaphylactoid response to intravenous tubocurarine. A case of severe anaphylactoid reaction to tubocurarine in a 42-year-old female is described. This is particularly notable as there was no history of past allergies or of previous exposure to the drug.", "PMID": 453507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10658", "title": "Fatal reaction to haemaccel.", "content": "A case is described of fatal bronchospasm which was probably due to an allergic response initiated by 'Haemaccel'.", "contents": "Fatal reaction to haemaccel. A case is described of fatal bronchospasm which was probably due to an allergic response initiated by 'Haemaccel'.", "PMID": 453508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10659", "title": "Three knifings in Gloucester.", "content": "Three cases of knife stabbing are described. The diagnosis of pneumothorax and its management are discussed. Conservative treatment of stab wounds of the chest can be applied in most cases. Abdominal wounds need to be explored.", "contents": "Three knifings in Gloucester. Three cases of knife stabbing are described. The diagnosis of pneumothorax and its management are discussed. Conservative treatment of stab wounds of the chest can be applied in most cases. Abdominal wounds need to be explored.", "PMID": 453509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10660", "title": "High capacity suction technique. A method of reducing the aspiration hazard during induction.", "content": "A suction booster is described which may be interposed between the endotracheal tube and the main suction system. This allows suction to be instantly ready throughout the intubation procedure, the rate of suction to be increased up to ten-fold, and all solid particles which can pass through the tracheal tube to be removed without the risk of blockage.", "contents": "High capacity suction technique. A method of reducing the aspiration hazard during induction. A suction booster is described which may be interposed between the endotracheal tube and the main suction system. This allows suction to be instantly ready throughout the intubation procedure, the rate of suction to be increased up to ten-fold, and all solid particles which can pass through the tracheal tube to be removed without the risk of blockage.", "PMID": 453510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10661", "title": "Synaptic extensions from the mossy fibers of the fascia dentata.", "content": "In the hilar region of the rat hippocampus, filamentous extensions have been observed to originate from the en passant synaptic expansions on the so-called mossy fibers, which are the axons of the dentate granule cells. These extensions range in length from about 1 micrometer to 30 micrometer, are often branched, and appear to contact the processes of various cell types in the hilar region. In 28-day-old rats, there are between 4 and 9 such extensions from most mossy fiber expansions, and the total length of the extensions from any one expansion is on the order of 75 micrometer. Analysis of serial electron micrographs through normal and Golgi-impregnated mossy fibers has confirmed that these extensions are, indeed, presynaptic processes. Each contains one or more vesicle-rich foci along its length, and is associated with asymmetric membrane specializations. At these sites, the extensions are in synaptic contact with dendrites and dendritic spines of, as yet, unknown origin. A quantitative analysis of these extensions in Golgi material from rats at different ages indicates that they reach their greatest length around 14 days and then decline to adult values by 28 days.", "contents": "Synaptic extensions from the mossy fibers of the fascia dentata. In the hilar region of the rat hippocampus, filamentous extensions have been observed to originate from the en passant synaptic expansions on the so-called mossy fibers, which are the axons of the dentate granule cells. These extensions range in length from about 1 micrometer to 30 micrometer, are often branched, and appear to contact the processes of various cell types in the hilar region. In 28-day-old rats, there are between 4 and 9 such extensions from most mossy fiber expansions, and the total length of the extensions from any one expansion is on the order of 75 micrometer. Analysis of serial electron micrographs through normal and Golgi-impregnated mossy fibers has confirmed that these extensions are, indeed, presynaptic processes. Each contains one or more vesicle-rich foci along its length, and is associated with asymmetric membrane specializations. At these sites, the extensions are in synaptic contact with dendrites and dendritic spines of, as yet, unknown origin. A quantitative analysis of these extensions in Golgi material from rats at different ages indicates that they reach their greatest length around 14 days and then decline to adult values by 28 days.", "PMID": 453543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10662", "title": "The development of cholinergic ganglia in the chick embryo heart.", "content": "Cholinesterase activity was investigated in the heart of the developing chick from the 6th to 20th day of incubation. The earliest cholinesterase-positive nerve cells and fibers could be demonstrated between the 7th and 9th day. On the 13th day the nervous structure attained full development comparable with that seen in the hatched chicken. The number of ganglia increases up to the 15th day, and remains constant thereafter. The right ventricle is associated with the largest number of ganglia.", "contents": "The development of cholinergic ganglia in the chick embryo heart. Cholinesterase activity was investigated in the heart of the developing chick from the 6th to 20th day of incubation. The earliest cholinesterase-positive nerve cells and fibers could be demonstrated between the 7th and 9th day. On the 13th day the nervous structure attained full development comparable with that seen in the hatched chicken. The number of ganglia increases up to the 15th day, and remains constant thereafter. The right ventricle is associated with the largest number of ganglia.", "PMID": 453544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10663", "title": "Electron microscopic investigations on the differentiation of Purkinje cells in the ontogenetic development of the chicken heart.", "content": "The ultrastructural development of subendocardial Purkinje cells of chicken left ventricle was investigated. In 9-day-old chick embryos the cell diameter and the organization of the cell organelles allow a distinction between Purkinje cells and ordinary myocardial cells In 14-day-old chick embryos, Purkinje cells show large accumulations of myosin filaments with interspersed ribosomes in addition to normomeric myofibrils. In these accumulations actin filaments seem to be absent. The deficiency of actin filaments is supposedly the reason for the random distribution of the myosin filaments. Purkinje cells of early chick embryos show areas with densely packed glycogen granules. In older embryos the glycogen concentration declines and only separate glycogen granules are visible. At hatching time the first subsarcolemmal leptomeric fibrils were observed in Purkinje cells. Leptomeric complexes arising in a close spatial relationship to the accumulations of myosin filaments and ribosomes can be seen in 2--4 week-old chickens. With the increasing age of the chickens, the size of these accumulations declines. Adult hens exhibit smaller accumulations, mainly in the neighborhood of leptomeric complexes. Purkinje cells show a distinct ontogenetic development. They are not simple embryonic remnants of ordinary myocardial cells.", "contents": "Electron microscopic investigations on the differentiation of Purkinje cells in the ontogenetic development of the chicken heart. The ultrastructural development of subendocardial Purkinje cells of chicken left ventricle was investigated. In 9-day-old chick embryos the cell diameter and the organization of the cell organelles allow a distinction between Purkinje cells and ordinary myocardial cells In 14-day-old chick embryos, Purkinje cells show large accumulations of myosin filaments with interspersed ribosomes in addition to normomeric myofibrils. In these accumulations actin filaments seem to be absent. The deficiency of actin filaments is supposedly the reason for the random distribution of the myosin filaments. Purkinje cells of early chick embryos show areas with densely packed glycogen granules. In older embryos the glycogen concentration declines and only separate glycogen granules are visible. At hatching time the first subsarcolemmal leptomeric fibrils were observed in Purkinje cells. Leptomeric complexes arising in a close spatial relationship to the accumulations of myosin filaments and ribosomes can be seen in 2--4 week-old chickens. With the increasing age of the chickens, the size of these accumulations declines. Adult hens exhibit smaller accumulations, mainly in the neighborhood of leptomeric complexes. Purkinje cells show a distinct ontogenetic development. They are not simple embryonic remnants of ordinary myocardial cells.", "PMID": 453545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10664", "title": "The limbus spiralis and its relationship to the developing tectorial membrane in the cochlear duct of the Guinea pig fetus.", "content": "The development of the interdental cells of the limbus spiralis and of the inner spiral sulcus cells as well as the formation of the mesenchymal teeth of Huschke are described during fetal life up to the day of birth in the guinea pig. Additionally, the changes of the developing tectorial membrane are studied. The ultrastructural observations allow the conclusion that during fetal development at least a considerable part of the material of the tectorial membrane is secreted by the interdental cells of the limbus spiralis.", "contents": "The limbus spiralis and its relationship to the developing tectorial membrane in the cochlear duct of the Guinea pig fetus. The development of the interdental cells of the limbus spiralis and of the inner spiral sulcus cells as well as the formation of the mesenchymal teeth of Huschke are described during fetal life up to the day of birth in the guinea pig. Additionally, the changes of the developing tectorial membrane are studied. The ultrastructural observations allow the conclusion that during fetal development at least a considerable part of the material of the tectorial membrane is secreted by the interdental cells of the limbus spiralis.", "PMID": 453546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10665", "title": "SEM study of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in the cat.", "content": "Corrosion casts of the complete vascular network of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in the cat brain were studied in SEM using the injection-replication method. The villi of this plexus are located only on its supero-anterior and infero-posterior parts, being most densely packed in the former region, close to the interventricular foramen. The capillaries of the villi display small nodular thickenings, which suggest the presence of small, sinusoidal dilatations. The main vessel supplying the plexus with blood is the anterior choroidal artery. The plexus is also characterized by a particularly rich venous network, which is drained by a prominent (main) choroid vein. The vascular organization of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in cat is compared to that of the corresponding plexuses in other mammals.", "contents": "SEM study of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in the cat. Corrosion casts of the complete vascular network of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in the cat brain were studied in SEM using the injection-replication method. The villi of this plexus are located only on its supero-anterior and infero-posterior parts, being most densely packed in the former region, close to the interventricular foramen. The capillaries of the villi display small nodular thickenings, which suggest the presence of small, sinusoidal dilatations. The main vessel supplying the plexus with blood is the anterior choroidal artery. The plexus is also characterized by a particularly rich venous network, which is drained by a prominent (main) choroid vein. The vascular organization of the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle in cat is compared to that of the corresponding plexuses in other mammals.", "PMID": 453547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10666", "title": "Lipofuscin in the cerebellar cortex of albino rats: an electron microscopic study.", "content": "The ultrastructure of autofluorescent, PAS-positive lipofuscin in Purkinje, granule, Golgi epithelial, basket and stellate, microglial and perivascular cells in the cerebellar cortex of senescent rats is described. The membrane-bounded pigment is composed of three elements: 1) electron-lucent homogeneous droplets, 2) a granular matrix and 3) intensely osmiophilic patches. The proportions of these three components vary between cell types and one can grossly differentiate a neuronal and a glial lipofuscin. The lipofuscin granules of stellate and perivascular cells are different from lipofuscin of other cerebellar neurons and glia. It can be concluded from these morphological observations that each cerebellar cell type has its distinct lipofuscin.", "contents": "Lipofuscin in the cerebellar cortex of albino rats: an electron microscopic study. The ultrastructure of autofluorescent, PAS-positive lipofuscin in Purkinje, granule, Golgi epithelial, basket and stellate, microglial and perivascular cells in the cerebellar cortex of senescent rats is described. The membrane-bounded pigment is composed of three elements: 1) electron-lucent homogeneous droplets, 2) a granular matrix and 3) intensely osmiophilic patches. The proportions of these three components vary between cell types and one can grossly differentiate a neuronal and a glial lipofuscin. The lipofuscin granules of stellate and perivascular cells are different from lipofuscin of other cerebellar neurons and glia. It can be concluded from these morphological observations that each cerebellar cell type has its distinct lipofuscin.", "PMID": 453548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10667", "title": "Blood vessels in the tongue of the kitten: scanning electron microscopy of microcorrosion casts.", "content": "The subepithelial blood vessels of the dorsal surface of the tongue in young kittens has been studied by scanning electron microscopy of micro-corrosion casts. These vessels entwine the vallate papillae distributed in the pharyngeal part of the tongue, form hairpin loops in association with the small conical papillae along the sides and at the tip of the tongue and establish regularly distributed subpapillary conglomerations over almost its entire oral part. These conglomerations lie directly on veins. Small arterioles reach the vessels surrounding the individual subpapillary conglomerations. By contrast with the arrangement of the superficial vascular bed in the tongue of the dog and some other mammals, no anastomoses between arteries and veins were observed in the kitten between the vessels which supply and drain the subepidermal capillaries.", "contents": "Blood vessels in the tongue of the kitten: scanning electron microscopy of microcorrosion casts. The subepithelial blood vessels of the dorsal surface of the tongue in young kittens has been studied by scanning electron microscopy of micro-corrosion casts. These vessels entwine the vallate papillae distributed in the pharyngeal part of the tongue, form hairpin loops in association with the small conical papillae along the sides and at the tip of the tongue and establish regularly distributed subpapillary conglomerations over almost its entire oral part. These conglomerations lie directly on veins. Small arterioles reach the vessels surrounding the individual subpapillary conglomerations. By contrast with the arrangement of the superficial vascular bed in the tongue of the dog and some other mammals, no anastomoses between arteries and veins were observed in the kitten between the vessels which supply and drain the subepidermal capillaries.", "PMID": 453549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10668", "title": "Stages in the prenatal development of the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus).", "content": "A system of staging embryos is described for the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus). This system of staging, based on Streeter's developmental horizons in human embryos, comprises three sets of criteria: 1) data on postconceptional age, size and number of somites, 2) external characteristics and 3) internal characteristics. A comparison has been made with data in mouse (Theiler, 1972) as well as in primates. It seems that the order of organogenesis, i.e. the sequence in which individual organs are formed, is basically similar in all mammals stuied so far.", "contents": "Stages in the prenatal development of the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus). A system of staging embryos is described for the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus). This system of staging, based on Streeter's developmental horizons in human embryos, comprises three sets of criteria: 1) data on postconceptional age, size and number of somites, 2) external characteristics and 3) internal characteristics. A comparison has been made with data in mouse (Theiler, 1972) as well as in primates. It seems that the order of organogenesis, i.e. the sequence in which individual organs are formed, is basically similar in all mammals stuied so far.", "PMID": 453550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10669", "title": "Barbiturate protection in tolerant and nontolerant hypoxic mice: comparison with hypothermic protection.", "content": "The effects of pentobarbital on survival times of mice exposed to oxygen, 5 per cent, were studied over a large dosage range in normal mice and in mice made tolerant to the effect of barbiturates. Tolerance was induced by pretreatment with phenobarbital, 210 mg/kg, for three days, which increased the median anesthetic dose (AD50) for pentobarbital from 34 to 53 mg/kg. In nontolerant mice there was a dose-related increase in mean survival times for doses between 35 and 60 mg/kg, with a maximum increase to 303 per cent above control. At doses of more than 60 mg/kg survival times progressively decreased toward control. For tolerant mice survival time as a function of pentobarbital dosage was shifted to the right, i.e., protection necessitated higher doses. This shift was not explained by lower brain concentrations of pentobarbital in tolerant animals, but rather parallelled the increased tolerance to the anesthetic effect of the barbiturate. The authors conclude that in this model the protective effect of barbiturate is a function of the anesthetic effect rather than the barbiturate concentration in brain per se. Hypothermia (29 C) resulted in an increase in mean survival time comparable to that in barbiturate-treated animals. This supports the hypothesis that protection is ultimately a function of decreased cerebral metabolism, whether produced by anesthesia or by hypothermia. This model measures only the effect on spontaneous respiration during hypoxia. It is possible that other mechanisms are involved if barbiturates protect in other situations, such as during or after periods of complete ischemia.", "contents": "Barbiturate protection in tolerant and nontolerant hypoxic mice: comparison with hypothermic protection. The effects of pentobarbital on survival times of mice exposed to oxygen, 5 per cent, were studied over a large dosage range in normal mice and in mice made tolerant to the effect of barbiturates. Tolerance was induced by pretreatment with phenobarbital, 210 mg/kg, for three days, which increased the median anesthetic dose (AD50) for pentobarbital from 34 to 53 mg/kg. In nontolerant mice there was a dose-related increase in mean survival times for doses between 35 and 60 mg/kg, with a maximum increase to 303 per cent above control. At doses of more than 60 mg/kg survival times progressively decreased toward control. For tolerant mice survival time as a function of pentobarbital dosage was shifted to the right, i.e., protection necessitated higher doses. This shift was not explained by lower brain concentrations of pentobarbital in tolerant animals, but rather parallelled the increased tolerance to the anesthetic effect of the barbiturate. The authors conclude that in this model the protective effect of barbiturate is a function of the anesthetic effect rather than the barbiturate concentration in brain per se. Hypothermia (29 C) resulted in an increase in mean survival time comparable to that in barbiturate-treated animals. This supports the hypothesis that protection is ultimately a function of decreased cerebral metabolism, whether produced by anesthesia or by hypothermia. This model measures only the effect on spontaneous respiration during hypoxia. It is possible that other mechanisms are involved if barbiturates protect in other situations, such as during or after periods of complete ischemia.", "PMID": 453557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10670", "title": "Left ventricular function and compliance in swine during halothane anesthesia.", "content": "Halothane (0.05--1.7 vol per cent end-tidal) in nitrous oxide (N2O), 60 per cent: oxygen (O2), 40 per cent was administered to nonmedicated, closed-chest pigs. Ventricular function was analyzed from cardiac output (thermodilution) and left ventricular (LV) pressure indices. Ventricular volumes and compliance were estimated from single and biplane LV angiography. In separate experiments, the effects of N2O, time, and the angiographic dye injections were shown to be minimal. Halothane caused dose-dependent decreases in aortic blood pressure, cardiac output, peak first derivative of left ventricular pressure (LV dP/dt), the in-vivo maximum velocity of fiber shortening (Vmax), and ejection fraction; non-dose-dependent decreases in heart rate and circumferential fiber shortening rate. Although a pronounced dose-related negative inotropic effect of halothane in the pig heart was demonstrated, there was no definite effect on ventricular pressure-volume relationships (compliance). If there was any such effect of halothane, it was obscured by the cardiac depression produced.", "contents": "Left ventricular function and compliance in swine during halothane anesthesia. Halothane (0.05--1.7 vol per cent end-tidal) in nitrous oxide (N2O), 60 per cent: oxygen (O2), 40 per cent was administered to nonmedicated, closed-chest pigs. Ventricular function was analyzed from cardiac output (thermodilution) and left ventricular (LV) pressure indices. Ventricular volumes and compliance were estimated from single and biplane LV angiography. In separate experiments, the effects of N2O, time, and the angiographic dye injections were shown to be minimal. Halothane caused dose-dependent decreases in aortic blood pressure, cardiac output, peak first derivative of left ventricular pressure (LV dP/dt), the in-vivo maximum velocity of fiber shortening (Vmax), and ejection fraction; non-dose-dependent decreases in heart rate and circumferential fiber shortening rate. Although a pronounced dose-related negative inotropic effect of halothane in the pig heart was demonstrated, there was no definite effect on ventricular pressure-volume relationships (compliance). If there was any such effect of halothane, it was obscured by the cardiac depression produced.", "PMID": 453558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10671", "title": "4-Aminopyridine potentiates neostigmine and pyridostigmine in man.", "content": "To elucidate the interaction of 4-aminopyridine with neostigmine and pyridostigmine, the authors studied 57 anesthetized surgical patients using a technique of constant infusion of pancuronium to quantitate antagonist activity. 4-Aminopyridine, 0.15 or 0.35 mg/kg, produced no antagonism, while 0.5 mg/kg produced a mean 24 +/- 6 per cent (peak) antagonism. The dose that produced 50 per cent antagonism (ED50) of neostigmine alone was 22 micrograms/kg; with 0.35 mg/kg 4-aminopyridine, it was 7 micrograms/kg. The ED50 of pyridostigmine alone was 110 micrograms/kg; with 0.35 mg/kg 4-aminopyridine, it was 27 micrograms/kg. 4-Aminopyridine prolonged the onset times of both neostigmine and pyridostigmine, but prolonged the duration of action of neostigmine only. At a given level of antagonism of pancuronium, adding 4-aminopyridine 0.35 mg/kg, to neostigmine and to pyridostigmine decreased the amounts of atropine needed to prevent a change in heart rate by 68 and 70 per cent, respectively. The authors conclude that 4-aminopyridine potentiates antagonism of a pancuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade by neostigmine or pyridostigmine. Also, less atropine is needed to prevent cardiac muscarinic stimulation when 4-aminopyridine is used with either neostigmine or pyridostigmine.", "contents": "4-Aminopyridine potentiates neostigmine and pyridostigmine in man. To elucidate the interaction of 4-aminopyridine with neostigmine and pyridostigmine, the authors studied 57 anesthetized surgical patients using a technique of constant infusion of pancuronium to quantitate antagonist activity. 4-Aminopyridine, 0.15 or 0.35 mg/kg, produced no antagonism, while 0.5 mg/kg produced a mean 24 +/- 6 per cent (peak) antagonism. The dose that produced 50 per cent antagonism (ED50) of neostigmine alone was 22 micrograms/kg; with 0.35 mg/kg 4-aminopyridine, it was 7 micrograms/kg. The ED50 of pyridostigmine alone was 110 micrograms/kg; with 0.35 mg/kg 4-aminopyridine, it was 27 micrograms/kg. 4-Aminopyridine prolonged the onset times of both neostigmine and pyridostigmine, but prolonged the duration of action of neostigmine only. At a given level of antagonism of pancuronium, adding 4-aminopyridine 0.35 mg/kg, to neostigmine and to pyridostigmine decreased the amounts of atropine needed to prevent a change in heart rate by 68 and 70 per cent, respectively. The authors conclude that 4-aminopyridine potentiates antagonism of a pancuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade by neostigmine or pyridostigmine. Also, less atropine is needed to prevent cardiac muscarinic stimulation when 4-aminopyridine is used with either neostigmine or pyridostigmine.", "PMID": 453559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10672", "title": "Sister chromatid exchanges induced by inhaled anesthetics.", "content": "There is sufficient evidence that anesthetics may cause cancer to justify a test of their carcinogenic potential. Baden, et al., using the Ames test, a rapid and inexpensive genetic indicator of carcinogenicity, have shown that among currently used anesthetics fluroxene alone caused bacterial mutations. The authors used the sister chromatid exchange (SCE) technique, another rapid assay of mutagenic-carcinogenic potential. The frequency of sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary cells increases when the cell cultures are exposed to mutagen-carcinogens, particularly in the presence of a metabolic activating system. With this test system a one-hour exposure to 1 MAC nitrous oxide, diethyl ether, trichloroethylene, halothane, enflurane, isoflurane, methoxyflurane, or chloroform did not increase SCE values. Divinyl ether, fluroxene and ethyl vinyl ether increased SCE values in the same circumstances. Results of this study of mammalian cells suggest that no currently used anesthetic is a mutagen-carcinogen. The results also suggest that anesthetics containing a vinyl moiety may be mutagen-carcinogens.", "contents": "Sister chromatid exchanges induced by inhaled anesthetics. There is sufficient evidence that anesthetics may cause cancer to justify a test of their carcinogenic potential. Baden, et al., using the Ames test, a rapid and inexpensive genetic indicator of carcinogenicity, have shown that among currently used anesthetics fluroxene alone caused bacterial mutations. The authors used the sister chromatid exchange (SCE) technique, another rapid assay of mutagenic-carcinogenic potential. The frequency of sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary cells increases when the cell cultures are exposed to mutagen-carcinogens, particularly in the presence of a metabolic activating system. With this test system a one-hour exposure to 1 MAC nitrous oxide, diethyl ether, trichloroethylene, halothane, enflurane, isoflurane, methoxyflurane, or chloroform did not increase SCE values. Divinyl ether, fluroxene and ethyl vinyl ether increased SCE values in the same circumstances. Results of this study of mammalian cells suggest that no currently used anesthetic is a mutagen-carcinogen. The results also suggest that anesthetics containing a vinyl moiety may be mutagen-carcinogens.", "PMID": 453561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10673", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of lidocaine in fetal and neonatal lambs and adult sheep.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of lidocaine were studied in fetal and neonatal lambs and in pregnant and nonpregnant adult sheep. Catheters were implanted in the femoral vessels and in the urinary bladders of animals prepared for chronic study. Lidocaine, 5--10 mg/kg, was injected intravenously either into the fetus or newborn lamb or into nonpregnant adult sheep. Serial samples of arterial blood and urine were obtained over four hours and analyzed for unchanged lidocaine using a gas chromatographic technique. The elimination half-lives of lidocaine in the bloods of nonpregnant ewe, neonate and fetus were 31, 51 and 33 min, respectively. Total-body clearances in the neonate and adult were 53 and 41 ml/min/kg. The metabolic clearances of lidocaine were the same in both, and approximated hepatic blood flow. Renal clearance was greater in the neonate, which was attributed to differences in urinary pH values and extents of protein binding. Thus, despite differences in half-lives, the newborn lamb is as capable as the adult of clearing lidocaine.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of lidocaine in fetal and neonatal lambs and adult sheep. The pharmacokinetics of lidocaine were studied in fetal and neonatal lambs and in pregnant and nonpregnant adult sheep. Catheters were implanted in the femoral vessels and in the urinary bladders of animals prepared for chronic study. Lidocaine, 5--10 mg/kg, was injected intravenously either into the fetus or newborn lamb or into nonpregnant adult sheep. Serial samples of arterial blood and urine were obtained over four hours and analyzed for unchanged lidocaine using a gas chromatographic technique. The elimination half-lives of lidocaine in the bloods of nonpregnant ewe, neonate and fetus were 31, 51 and 33 min, respectively. Total-body clearances in the neonate and adult were 53 and 41 ml/min/kg. The metabolic clearances of lidocaine were the same in both, and approximated hepatic blood flow. Renal clearance was greater in the neonate, which was attributed to differences in urinary pH values and extents of protein binding. Thus, despite differences in half-lives, the newborn lamb is as capable as the adult of clearing lidocaine.", "PMID": 453562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10674", "title": "Rapidly developing tolerance to acute exposures to anesthetic agents.", "content": "Following the observation that mice manifest a characteristic withdrawal syndrome after an hour of exposure to nitrous oxide, the authors reasoned that there might be a very rapidly developing tolerance to nitrous oxide. Thus, they determined the inspired concentrations that cause loss of the righting reflex in mice (i.e, the ED50), in the presence of 1 atm of oxygen, of: 1) nitrous oxide alone; 2) cyclopropane alone; 3) nitrous oxide plus 13.6 atm helium; 4) ethylene plus 13.6 atm helium. In each instance the ED50 was determined after averages of 6,34 and 64 min of exposure to the anesthetic agents. For nitrous oxide alone the ED50 at 6 min was 1.18 +/- 0.049 atm, increasing to 1.39 +/- 0.061 atm at 64 min. For ethylene plus helium the ED50 increased from 1.21 +/- 0.033 atm at 6 min to 1.31 +/- 0.039 atm at 64 min, indicating the development of acute tolerance. Neither cyclopropane alone nor nitrous oxide plus helium caused acute tolerance. This absence of tolerance may have resulted from a slower development of an alveolar anesthetic concentration.", "contents": "Rapidly developing tolerance to acute exposures to anesthetic agents. Following the observation that mice manifest a characteristic withdrawal syndrome after an hour of exposure to nitrous oxide, the authors reasoned that there might be a very rapidly developing tolerance to nitrous oxide. Thus, they determined the inspired concentrations that cause loss of the righting reflex in mice (i.e, the ED50), in the presence of 1 atm of oxygen, of: 1) nitrous oxide alone; 2) cyclopropane alone; 3) nitrous oxide plus 13.6 atm helium; 4) ethylene plus 13.6 atm helium. In each instance the ED50 was determined after averages of 6,34 and 64 min of exposure to the anesthetic agents. For nitrous oxide alone the ED50 at 6 min was 1.18 +/- 0.049 atm, increasing to 1.39 +/- 0.061 atm at 64 min. For ethylene plus helium the ED50 increased from 1.21 +/- 0.033 atm at 6 min to 1.31 +/- 0.039 atm at 64 min, indicating the development of acute tolerance. Neither cyclopropane alone nor nitrous oxide plus helium caused acute tolerance. This absence of tolerance may have resulted from a slower development of an alveolar anesthetic concentration.", "PMID": 453575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10675", "title": "Uterine blood flow and plasma norepinephrine changes during maternal stress in the pregnant ewe.", "content": "Because maternal stress may adversely affect the fetus, the authors tested the effects of brief episodes (15-60 sec) of maternal stress in 18 awake pregnant ewes. Maternal agitation and stuggling occurred either following non-painful stimuli such as loud noises or sudden movements of personnel (ten animals) or following the brief application of the ewe's skin of a uniform electrical stimulus of 30 volts with a frequency of 167 Hz for 30-60 sec (eight animals). Stimulation of either type produced a 45-50 per cent increase in mean maternal arterial blood pressure and a concomitant 32-52 per cent decrease in uterine blood flow (P less than 0.05). The decreases in uterine blood flow were brief, lasting less than 3 min, and were not associated with fetal asphyxia. Maternal plasma norepinephrine levels were measured following electrically induced maternal stress and were increased 25 per cent. The authors conclude that maternal stress may decrease uterine blood flow secondary to release of endogenous norepinephrine.", "contents": "Uterine blood flow and plasma norepinephrine changes during maternal stress in the pregnant ewe. Because maternal stress may adversely affect the fetus, the authors tested the effects of brief episodes (15-60 sec) of maternal stress in 18 awake pregnant ewes. Maternal agitation and stuggling occurred either following non-painful stimuli such as loud noises or sudden movements of personnel (ten animals) or following the brief application of the ewe's skin of a uniform electrical stimulus of 30 volts with a frequency of 167 Hz for 30-60 sec (eight animals). Stimulation of either type produced a 45-50 per cent increase in mean maternal arterial blood pressure and a concomitant 32-52 per cent decrease in uterine blood flow (P less than 0.05). The decreases in uterine blood flow were brief, lasting less than 3 min, and were not associated with fetal asphyxia. Maternal plasma norepinephrine levels were measured following electrically induced maternal stress and were increased 25 per cent. The authors conclude that maternal stress may decrease uterine blood flow secondary to release of endogenous norepinephrine.", "PMID": 453577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10676", "title": "Densities of liquid anesthetics at 37 C.", "content": "Liquid densities of chloroform, diethyl ether, enflurane, halothane, methoxyflurane, and trichloroethylene were measured at 37.0 C. The maximum error in the density values was estimated to be +/-0.01 per cent.", "contents": "Densities of liquid anesthetics at 37 C. Liquid densities of chloroform, diethyl ether, enflurane, halothane, methoxyflurane, and trichloroethylene were measured at 37.0 C. The maximum error in the density values was estimated to be +/-0.01 per cent.", "PMID": 453579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10677", "title": "Steriod therapy for pneumonitis induced in rabbits by aspiration of foodstuff.", "content": "The instillation of gastric contents, 0.5 ml/kg (pH 4.3), containing small food particles into the left diaphragmatic lobe of the lungs of 49 rabbits caused severe aspiration pneumonitis. Administration of methylprednisolone, 30 mg/kg, intramuscularly, every eight hours for three days to 26 of the 49 rabbits did not alter the rate of roentgenographic resolution of the pneumonitis. Corticosteroids did decrease the fibroblastic response of the lung to the aspirate, but also interfered with healing of granulomatous lesions.", "contents": "Steriod therapy for pneumonitis induced in rabbits by aspiration of foodstuff. The instillation of gastric contents, 0.5 ml/kg (pH 4.3), containing small food particles into the left diaphragmatic lobe of the lungs of 49 rabbits caused severe aspiration pneumonitis. Administration of methylprednisolone, 30 mg/kg, intramuscularly, every eight hours for three days to 26 of the 49 rabbits did not alter the rate of roentgenographic resolution of the pneumonitis. Corticosteroids did decrease the fibroblastic response of the lung to the aspirate, but also interfered with healing of granulomatous lesions.", "PMID": 453588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10678", "title": "Inhibition by ether of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in isolated pieces of rat pancreas.", "content": "Addition of glucose (16.7 mM) to isolated pieces of rat pancreas increased insulin secretion 5.4-fold over basal secretion rates. Ether at 1, 1.5 and 2 MAC inhibited this insulinogenic effect of glucose in a dose-related manner by 5, 18 (P less than 0.01) and 29 (P less than 0.01) per cent, respectively.", "contents": "Inhibition by ether of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in isolated pieces of rat pancreas. Addition of glucose (16.7 mM) to isolated pieces of rat pancreas increased insulin secretion 5.4-fold over basal secretion rates. Ether at 1, 1.5 and 2 MAC inhibited this insulinogenic effect of glucose in a dose-related manner by 5, 18 (P less than 0.01) and 29 (P less than 0.01) per cent, respectively.", "PMID": 453590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10679", "title": "Halothane biotransformation in anesthetists.", "content": "Serum bromide levels were measured in 115 anesthetists by use of x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Bromide levels peaked at 184 +/- 21 micron in anesthetists regularly exposed to halothane (n = 20), at 58 +/- 4 micron in anesthetists sporadically exposed to halothane (n = 71), and at 46 +/- 3 micron in nonexposed anesthetists (n = 24). Kinetic studies were carried out in five other anesthetists after ten days of exposure to halothane. Average daily halothane concentration was 19.2 +/- 3.2 ppm; duration of exposure was 3.8 +/- 0.2 hours/day. Mean serum bromide level increased from 40 +/- 4 micron before exposure to 220 +/- 36 micron on the last day of exposure. Serum bromide half-life was 14 +/- 1.7 days. The study demonstrates that anesthetists debrominate halothane in a dose-related fashion. Serum bromide levels achieved, however, were far below those reported to result in clinical bromism.", "contents": "Halothane biotransformation in anesthetists. Serum bromide levels were measured in 115 anesthetists by use of x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Bromide levels peaked at 184 +/- 21 micron in anesthetists regularly exposed to halothane (n = 20), at 58 +/- 4 micron in anesthetists sporadically exposed to halothane (n = 71), and at 46 +/- 3 micron in nonexposed anesthetists (n = 24). Kinetic studies were carried out in five other anesthetists after ten days of exposure to halothane. Average daily halothane concentration was 19.2 +/- 3.2 ppm; duration of exposure was 3.8 +/- 0.2 hours/day. Mean serum bromide level increased from 40 +/- 4 micron before exposure to 220 +/- 36 micron on the last day of exposure. Serum bromide half-life was 14 +/- 1.7 days. The study demonstrates that anesthetists debrominate halothane in a dose-related fashion. Serum bromide levels achieved, however, were far below those reported to result in clinical bromism.", "PMID": 453592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10680", "title": "Perfusion of naloxone through the fourth cerebral ventricle reverses the circulatory and hypnotic effects of halothane in dogs.", "content": "To determine whether naloxone when perfused through the cerebroventricular system would modify the circulatory and hypnotic effects of halothane, the authors studied its effect in six trained dogs. Naloxone, 20 microgram/ml, was perfused through the fourth cerebral ventricle in three and through the third cerebral and lateral ventricles in three other dogs when awake and during halothane anesthesia (0.75--0.82 vol per cent in oxygen). Blood pressure, heart rate, and circulatory responses to bilateral occlusion of the carotid arteries were measured. The state of consciousness was evaluated by the animals behavior and the EEG. Arterial hypotension, bradycardia, depressed baroreceptor responses, and EEG synchronization associated with halothane anesthesia were reversed when naloxone was perfused through the fourth ventricle. To maintain comparable depths of anesthesia the halothane concentration had to be doubled during naloxone perfusion. No change in the circulatory or hypnotic effects of halothane occurred when the third ventricle was perfused with naloxone. It is concluded that opiate receptors in structures bordering the fourth cerebral ventricle may be important modulators of inhalational anesthesia.", "contents": "Perfusion of naloxone through the fourth cerebral ventricle reverses the circulatory and hypnotic effects of halothane in dogs. To determine whether naloxone when perfused through the cerebroventricular system would modify the circulatory and hypnotic effects of halothane, the authors studied its effect in six trained dogs. Naloxone, 20 microgram/ml, was perfused through the fourth cerebral ventricle in three and through the third cerebral and lateral ventricles in three other dogs when awake and during halothane anesthesia (0.75--0.82 vol per cent in oxygen). Blood pressure, heart rate, and circulatory responses to bilateral occlusion of the carotid arteries were measured. The state of consciousness was evaluated by the animals behavior and the EEG. Arterial hypotension, bradycardia, depressed baroreceptor responses, and EEG synchronization associated with halothane anesthesia were reversed when naloxone was perfused through the fourth ventricle. To maintain comparable depths of anesthesia the halothane concentration had to be doubled during naloxone perfusion. No change in the circulatory or hypnotic effects of halothane occurred when the third ventricle was perfused with naloxone. It is concluded that opiate receptors in structures bordering the fourth cerebral ventricle may be important modulators of inhalational anesthesia.", "PMID": 453593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10681", "title": "The effects of deuteration on the metabolism of halogenated anesthetics in the rat.", "content": "The authors studied the effects of substituting deuterium for hydrogen in several volatile anesthetics on their metabolism in the Fischer rat. Substitution of deuterium in the ethyl portion of methoxyflurane increased the metabolic production of fluoride ion by 19 per cent when administered at a concentration of 0.05 per cent. Total replacement of hydrogen by deuterium resulted in a 29 per cent decrease in the amount of fluoride produced, while deuteration of only the methoxyl group produced a 33 per cent decrease in fluoride produced. Deuteration of halothane resulted in a 15 or 26 per cent decrease in serum bromide at 0.75 per cent or 1.0 per cent, respectively. Deuteration in the ethyl portions of enflurane and two experimental agents, CF2HOCF2CFBrH and CF2HOCF2CCl2H resulted in 65, 76, and 29 per cent decreases in urinary fluoride, respectively. Anesthesia with deuterated chloroform at a concentration of 0.36 per cent produced a 35 per cent decrease in serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). It is concluded that deuteration of volatile anesthetics changes their metabolism, in most cases producing decreases in metabolism. This effect may lessen the organ toxicity believed to occur with some of these anesthetics.", "contents": "The effects of deuteration on the metabolism of halogenated anesthetics in the rat. The authors studied the effects of substituting deuterium for hydrogen in several volatile anesthetics on their metabolism in the Fischer rat. Substitution of deuterium in the ethyl portion of methoxyflurane increased the metabolic production of fluoride ion by 19 per cent when administered at a concentration of 0.05 per cent. Total replacement of hydrogen by deuterium resulted in a 29 per cent decrease in the amount of fluoride produced, while deuteration of only the methoxyl group produced a 33 per cent decrease in fluoride produced. Deuteration of halothane resulted in a 15 or 26 per cent decrease in serum bromide at 0.75 per cent or 1.0 per cent, respectively. Deuteration in the ethyl portions of enflurane and two experimental agents, CF2HOCF2CFBrH and CF2HOCF2CCl2H resulted in 65, 76, and 29 per cent decreases in urinary fluoride, respectively. Anesthesia with deuterated chloroform at a concentration of 0.36 per cent produced a 35 per cent decrease in serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). It is concluded that deuteration of volatile anesthetics changes their metabolism, in most cases producing decreases in metabolism. This effect may lessen the organ toxicity believed to occur with some of these anesthetics.", "PMID": 453609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10682", "title": "Dose-response and plasma concentration-response relationships of pancuronium in man.", "content": "The dose-response and plasma concentration-response relationships for pancuronium in man were studied during its intravenous administration to eight patients at a rate of 1.62 microgram/kg/min. The (log) dose-response relationships resulted in a sigmoid curve that was linear in its central range. At 20, 50 and 80 per cent paralysis the cumulative dosages (mean +/- SEM) were 0.04 (+/- 0.01), 0.06 (+/- 0.01), and 0.08 (+/- 0.02) mg/kg, respectively. Administration of pancuronium, 56 microgram/kg, to another 12 patients at a more rapid rate resulted in a maximum intensity of blockade of more than 50 per cent. The (log) plasma concentration-response curve was not parallel to the dose-response curve, with mean (+/- SEM) concentrations at 20, 50 and 80 per cent paralysis of 0.21 (+/- 0.04), 0.25 (+/- 0.04), and 0.30 (+/- 0.04) microgram/ml, respectively during the onset of paralysis. Following cessation of the infusion, plasma concentrations of pancuronium were usually lower for the same intensity of paralysis. Using data for the entire response range during recovery from paralysis, the mean effective plasma concentration of pancuronium for a 50 per cent response was 0.20 microgram/ml. Recovery from blockade to 95 per cent paralysis (5 per cent of control twitch height) was associated with a plasma concentration of 0.25 microgram/ml, a value in agreement with plasma concentrations obtained following a single bolus administration of pancuronium, 6 mg, to 30 patients. For 27 patients the rate of decline of paralysis from 80 to 20 per cent showed a highly statistically significant relationship to the apparent rate of decline in the plasma concentrations of pancuronium.", "contents": "Dose-response and plasma concentration-response relationships of pancuronium in man. The dose-response and plasma concentration-response relationships for pancuronium in man were studied during its intravenous administration to eight patients at a rate of 1.62 microgram/kg/min. The (log) dose-response relationships resulted in a sigmoid curve that was linear in its central range. At 20, 50 and 80 per cent paralysis the cumulative dosages (mean +/- SEM) were 0.04 (+/- 0.01), 0.06 (+/- 0.01), and 0.08 (+/- 0.02) mg/kg, respectively. Administration of pancuronium, 56 microgram/kg, to another 12 patients at a more rapid rate resulted in a maximum intensity of blockade of more than 50 per cent. The (log) plasma concentration-response curve was not parallel to the dose-response curve, with mean (+/- SEM) concentrations at 20, 50 and 80 per cent paralysis of 0.21 (+/- 0.04), 0.25 (+/- 0.04), and 0.30 (+/- 0.04) microgram/ml, respectively during the onset of paralysis. Following cessation of the infusion, plasma concentrations of pancuronium were usually lower for the same intensity of paralysis. Using data for the entire response range during recovery from paralysis, the mean effective plasma concentration of pancuronium for a 50 per cent response was 0.20 microgram/ml. Recovery from blockade to 95 per cent paralysis (5 per cent of control twitch height) was associated with a plasma concentration of 0.25 microgram/ml, a value in agreement with plasma concentrations obtained following a single bolus administration of pancuronium, 6 mg, to 30 patients. For 27 patients the rate of decline of paralysis from 80 to 20 per cent showed a highly statistically significant relationship to the apparent rate of decline in the plasma concentrations of pancuronium.", "PMID": 453610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10683", "title": "Plasma concentrations of pancuronium and neuromuscular blockade after injection into the isolated arm, bolus injection, and continuous infusion.", "content": "To establish whether the plasma concentration of pancuronium reflects magnitude of neuromuscular blockade, the authors determined times of recovery from neuromuscular blockade and associated plasma concentrations following equipotent doses of pancuronium using three methods of pancuronium administration: the isolated-arm technique in conscious volunteers (n = 4), and the bolus intravenous injection (n = 7) and continuous-infusion methods (n = 3) in anesthetized patients. Although maximum depressions of twitch tension were similar (85 +/- 11,91 +/- 6, and 92 +/- 4 per cent, respectively) with the three techniques, times to recovery from neuromuscular blockade differed significantly, being 10 +/- 2 min with the isolated-arm technique, 23 +/- 7 min with the bolus-injection technique, and 46 +/- 5 min with the continuous-infusion method. The plasma concentration of pancuronium necessary for neuromuscular blockade was least with the isolated-arm technique and greatest with continuous infusion. At 25 and 75 per cent recovery, mean plasma concentrations were 0.07 +/- 0.01 and 0.04 +/- 0.01 microgram/ml in the isolated arm; 0.13 +/- 0.04 and 0.09 +/- 0.02 microgram/ml after bolus injection, and 0.20 +/- 0.04 and 0.11 microgram/ml during continuous infusion, respectively. It is concluded that the relationship between plasma concentration of pancuronium and magnitude of neuromuscular blockade depends on the method of pancuronium administration.", "contents": "Plasma concentrations of pancuronium and neuromuscular blockade after injection into the isolated arm, bolus injection, and continuous infusion. To establish whether the plasma concentration of pancuronium reflects magnitude of neuromuscular blockade, the authors determined times of recovery from neuromuscular blockade and associated plasma concentrations following equipotent doses of pancuronium using three methods of pancuronium administration: the isolated-arm technique in conscious volunteers (n = 4), and the bolus intravenous injection (n = 7) and continuous-infusion methods (n = 3) in anesthetized patients. Although maximum depressions of twitch tension were similar (85 +/- 11,91 +/- 6, and 92 +/- 4 per cent, respectively) with the three techniques, times to recovery from neuromuscular blockade differed significantly, being 10 +/- 2 min with the isolated-arm technique, 23 +/- 7 min with the bolus-injection technique, and 46 +/- 5 min with the continuous-infusion method. The plasma concentration of pancuronium necessary for neuromuscular blockade was least with the isolated-arm technique and greatest with continuous infusion. At 25 and 75 per cent recovery, mean plasma concentrations were 0.07 +/- 0.01 and 0.04 +/- 0.01 microgram/ml in the isolated arm; 0.13 +/- 0.04 and 0.09 +/- 0.02 microgram/ml after bolus injection, and 0.20 +/- 0.04 and 0.11 microgram/ml during continuous infusion, respectively. It is concluded that the relationship between plasma concentration of pancuronium and magnitude of neuromuscular blockade depends on the method of pancuronium administration.", "PMID": 453611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10684", "title": "Hypertension during anesthesia on discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension.", "content": "The authors had observed that on intraoperative discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside being administered to induce hypotension, mean arterial pressure increased to above the pre-hypotension level. Twelve patients who recieved hypotensive anesthesia for surgical correction of cerebral aneurysms were studied to evaluate the role of the renin-angiotensin system in this phenomenon. In the awake state, mean arterial pressure was 100 +/- 2 torr and plasma renin activity 3.0 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. Thirty minutes after the establishment of stable halothane-nitrous oxide anesthesia, mean arterial pressure decreased to 85 +/- 1 torr and plasma renin activity increased to 4.4 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. No appreciable change in either occurred over the next two hours of operation. During sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension, mean arterial pressure decreased to 49 +/- 2 torr and plasma renin activity increased to 15.2 +/- 0.2 ng/ml/hr. Thirty minutes after discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside administration, mean arterial pressure increased to 112 +/- 2 torr, which was not only higher than the prehypotension level, but also significantly higher than that recorded in the awake state. Plasma renin activity at that time was 10.9 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. As the half-life of plasma renin is 15 min, the data suggest that the persistently increased plasma renin activity is probably responsible for the increase of arterial pressure following sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension.", "contents": "Hypertension during anesthesia on discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension. The authors had observed that on intraoperative discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside being administered to induce hypotension, mean arterial pressure increased to above the pre-hypotension level. Twelve patients who recieved hypotensive anesthesia for surgical correction of cerebral aneurysms were studied to evaluate the role of the renin-angiotensin system in this phenomenon. In the awake state, mean arterial pressure was 100 +/- 2 torr and plasma renin activity 3.0 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. Thirty minutes after the establishment of stable halothane-nitrous oxide anesthesia, mean arterial pressure decreased to 85 +/- 1 torr and plasma renin activity increased to 4.4 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. No appreciable change in either occurred over the next two hours of operation. During sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension, mean arterial pressure decreased to 49 +/- 2 torr and plasma renin activity increased to 15.2 +/- 0.2 ng/ml/hr. Thirty minutes after discontinuation of sodium nitroprusside administration, mean arterial pressure increased to 112 +/- 2 torr, which was not only higher than the prehypotension level, but also significantly higher than that recorded in the awake state. Plasma renin activity at that time was 10.9 +/- 0.1 ng/ml/hr. As the half-life of plasma renin is 15 min, the data suggest that the persistently increased plasma renin activity is probably responsible for the increase of arterial pressure following sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension.", "PMID": 453612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10685", "title": "Enflurane requirement and ventilatory response to carbon dioxide during lidocaine infusion in dogs.", "content": "Arterial plasma lidocaine concentration of 1 to 3.5 microgram/ml produced dose-related decreases in enflurane requirement (MAC) ranging from 15 to 37 per cent in dogs. The ventilatory responses to carbon dioxide at comparable depths of anesthesia with enflurane alone and the enflurane-lidocaine combination were measured in each animal and compared. With both anesthetic regimens there were increases in resting arterial carbon dioxide tension (mean maximal increase = 18 torr) and a 69 per cent decrease in the slope of the ventilatory response as depth of anesthesia increased. The effect of the drug interaction appears to be additive, since the ventilatory depression produced by the enflurane-lidocaine combination was no greater than that produced by enflurane alone at equivalent levels of anesthesia.", "contents": "Enflurane requirement and ventilatory response to carbon dioxide during lidocaine infusion in dogs. Arterial plasma lidocaine concentration of 1 to 3.5 microgram/ml produced dose-related decreases in enflurane requirement (MAC) ranging from 15 to 37 per cent in dogs. The ventilatory responses to carbon dioxide at comparable depths of anesthesia with enflurane alone and the enflurane-lidocaine combination were measured in each animal and compared. With both anesthetic regimens there were increases in resting arterial carbon dioxide tension (mean maximal increase = 18 torr) and a 69 per cent decrease in the slope of the ventilatory response as depth of anesthesia increased. The effect of the drug interaction appears to be additive, since the ventilatory depression produced by the enflurane-lidocaine combination was no greater than that produced by enflurane alone at equivalent levels of anesthesia.", "PMID": 453613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10686", "title": "Edrophonium antagonism of pancuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade in man: a reappraisal.", "content": "The ability of edrophonium to reverse the nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium was studied in 40 adult patients during light nitrous oxide--enflurane anesthesia. Antagonism of paralysis was attempted when the train-of-four fade ratio had spontaneous recovered in various extents. Edrophonium was administered in incremental doses intravenously either until the fade ratio increased to 0.70 or more or until the total dose of drug amounted to 0.5 mg/kg. All patients who had spontaneous recovery of train-of-four fade ratios to at least 0.10 had adequate reversal with edrophonium. When the train-of-four count was three or fewer visible twitches, the response to endrophonium was unpredictable. No evidence of recurarization was seen.", "contents": "Edrophonium antagonism of pancuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade in man: a reappraisal. The ability of edrophonium to reverse the nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium was studied in 40 adult patients during light nitrous oxide--enflurane anesthesia. Antagonism of paralysis was attempted when the train-of-four fade ratio had spontaneous recovered in various extents. Edrophonium was administered in incremental doses intravenously either until the fade ratio increased to 0.70 or more or until the total dose of drug amounted to 0.5 mg/kg. All patients who had spontaneous recovery of train-of-four fade ratios to at least 0.10 had adequate reversal with edrophonium. When the train-of-four count was three or fewer visible twitches, the response to endrophonium was unpredictable. No evidence of recurarization was seen.", "PMID": 453615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10687", "title": "[Helminth fauna of Syrian cattle].", "content": "In this work the stomach and the small intestine of 34 and the large intestine of 4 more cattle were examined. 91,17% of the examined cattle (31 in 34 animals) had infected the stomach and/or the small intestine by parasites. 14 kinds of nematodes were found. The average intensity of infection of the stomach was higher than that of the small intestine. With the exception of higher infection in 3 stomachs and 2 small intestines the intensity of infection in all other cases was from small to medium in number. In contrast to this the frequency of infection was higher in small intestines than in stomachs.--The frequency of the found nematodes was: Ostertagia ostertagi 61,76%, Cooperia oncophora 61,76%, Cooperia punctata 47,05%, Trichostrongylus axei 41,17%, Cooperia zurnabada 38,23%, Bunostomum phlebotomum 20,58%, Haemonchus contortus 17,64%, Trichostrongylus vitrinus 11,76%, Skrjabinagia lyrata 5,88%, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Trichostrongylus longispicularis, Parabronema skrjabini and Toxocara vitulorum each 2,94%.--According to the accessible literature Skrjabinagia lyrata, Ostertagia ostertagi, Trichostrongylus longispicularis, Cooperia punctata, Cooperia zurnabada, Bunostomum phlebotomum and Trichuris discolor were first found in Syrian ruminants. The helminths of Syrian ruminants which have become known until today are tabulated.", "contents": "[Helminth fauna of Syrian cattle]. In this work the stomach and the small intestine of 34 and the large intestine of 4 more cattle were examined. 91,17% of the examined cattle (31 in 34 animals) had infected the stomach and/or the small intestine by parasites. 14 kinds of nematodes were found. The average intensity of infection of the stomach was higher than that of the small intestine. With the exception of higher infection in 3 stomachs and 2 small intestines the intensity of infection in all other cases was from small to medium in number. In contrast to this the frequency of infection was higher in small intestines than in stomachs.--The frequency of the found nematodes was: Ostertagia ostertagi 61,76%, Cooperia oncophora 61,76%, Cooperia punctata 47,05%, Trichostrongylus axei 41,17%, Cooperia zurnabada 38,23%, Bunostomum phlebotomum 20,58%, Haemonchus contortus 17,64%, Trichostrongylus vitrinus 11,76%, Skrjabinagia lyrata 5,88%, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Trichostrongylus longispicularis, Parabronema skrjabini and Toxocara vitulorum each 2,94%.--According to the accessible literature Skrjabinagia lyrata, Ostertagia ostertagi, Trichostrongylus longispicularis, Cooperia punctata, Cooperia zurnabada, Bunostomum phlebotomum and Trichuris discolor were first found in Syrian ruminants. The helminths of Syrian ruminants which have become known until today are tabulated.", "PMID": 453633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10688", "title": "[Dipteran fauna of zoological preparation and veterinary postmortem rooms].", "content": "Zoological preparation rooms (P) and post-mortem rooms (S) constitute an environment for the spread of infection in areas of human habitation. In the absence of fly screens on the windows they are often invaded by Diptera which after landing on the frequently infested animal material leave again and become potential transmitters of disease in adjoining human living quarters. A large number of the 241 species of Diptera from 37 families identified in the P/S are regarded as potential transmitters. But suitability as transmitter is also potentially possible for an appreciable part of the remaining species. Field investigations over 20 years with various bait traps, e. g. fresh and decaying meat, excrements, human and animal food, have shown that many of these species observe sequences of substrate visitations similar to those Diptera identified in the literature as transmitters of disease. Should this assumption be confirmed the number of Diptera species which have to be considered as agents for the spread of disease would be enlarged within the environment of contamination P/S.--The results obtained in P/S constitutes an addition to the material so far worked out for the dipterology of human habitation. This should serve as background for further selective, microbiological and medical research on the role of Diptera as transmitters of disease.", "contents": "[Dipteran fauna of zoological preparation and veterinary postmortem rooms]. Zoological preparation rooms (P) and post-mortem rooms (S) constitute an environment for the spread of infection in areas of human habitation. In the absence of fly screens on the windows they are often invaded by Diptera which after landing on the frequently infested animal material leave again and become potential transmitters of disease in adjoining human living quarters. A large number of the 241 species of Diptera from 37 families identified in the P/S are regarded as potential transmitters. But suitability as transmitter is also potentially possible for an appreciable part of the remaining species. Field investigations over 20 years with various bait traps, e. g. fresh and decaying meat, excrements, human and animal food, have shown that many of these species observe sequences of substrate visitations similar to those Diptera identified in the literature as transmitters of disease. Should this assumption be confirmed the number of Diptera species which have to be considered as agents for the spread of disease would be enlarged within the environment of contamination P/S.--The results obtained in P/S constitutes an addition to the material so far worked out for the dipterology of human habitation. This should serve as background for further selective, microbiological and medical research on the role of Diptera as transmitters of disease.", "PMID": 453634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10689", "title": "[Unusual xiphidiocercaria from Ampullaria canaliculata with reference to Travtrema stenocotyle].", "content": "In overflowed areas from the Lujan-River near Zelaya, province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, a xiphidiocercaria with stenostome excretory system and 2 [(4 + 4 + 4) + (4 + 4 + 4 +)] = 48 flame cells was found in Ampullaria canaliculata. The cercaria encyst experimentally in the skin and internal organs of tadpoles. Natural infections were found in Hyla pulchella. The metacercaria, excepting the excretory system, is similar to Travtrema stenocotyle Cohn, 1902 from snakes.--In Leimadophis poecilogyrus 4 Trematode specimens were found and provisionally classified as Travtrema stenocotyle. A revision of the excretory system of Travtrema stenocotyle is suggested.", "contents": "[Unusual xiphidiocercaria from Ampullaria canaliculata with reference to Travtrema stenocotyle]. In overflowed areas from the Lujan-River near Zelaya, province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, a xiphidiocercaria with stenostome excretory system and 2 [(4 + 4 + 4) + (4 + 4 + 4 +)] = 48 flame cells was found in Ampullaria canaliculata. The cercaria encyst experimentally in the skin and internal organs of tadpoles. Natural infections were found in Hyla pulchella. The metacercaria, excepting the excretory system, is similar to Travtrema stenocotyle Cohn, 1902 from snakes.--In Leimadophis poecilogyrus 4 Trematode specimens were found and provisionally classified as Travtrema stenocotyle. A revision of the excretory system of Travtrema stenocotyle is suggested.", "PMID": 453636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10690", "title": "[Bychovskij's chief principles of Monogenea classification].", "content": "B. E. Bychovskij used the type of the adhesive structures and the formation of larvae as the basis of dividing Monogenea into groups. Using these principles he divided this class in two subclasses. Recent data confirm his chief statements.", "contents": "[Bychovskij's chief principles of Monogenea classification]. B. E. Bychovskij used the type of the adhesive structures and the formation of larvae as the basis of dividing Monogenea into groups. Using these principles he divided this class in two subclasses. Recent data confirm his chief statements.", "PMID": 453637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10691", "title": "Fine structure of digital vascular lesions in Raynaud's phenomenon and disease.", "content": "The ultrastructural changes in the vessels of the fingertips of patients with Raynaud's phenomenon or disease, with or without scleroderma, are described for the first time. Fingertip specimens were taken by punch biopsy. The light microscopic changes, including segmental vasculitis, fibrinoid degeneration of capillaries, and involuntary regression of glomus bodies explain the reduced digital blood flow associated with Raynaud's disease and phenomenon. The moment-to-moment digital blood flow, recorded rheoplethysmographically, was low when the patient was in a comfortable environment and was increased in a hot environment. This result substantiates the therapeutic importance of reflex vasodilatation. These findings correlate well with the ultrastructural changes in capillaries, including multiple cytoplasmic folds in endothelial cells, abundant intracytoplasmic filaments, and unusual incorporation of collagen fibrils in the basement membrane. These changes must influence nutritional and thermoregulatory function of the digital blood vessels.", "contents": "Fine structure of digital vascular lesions in Raynaud's phenomenon and disease. The ultrastructural changes in the vessels of the fingertips of patients with Raynaud's phenomenon or disease, with or without scleroderma, are described for the first time. Fingertip specimens were taken by punch biopsy. The light microscopic changes, including segmental vasculitis, fibrinoid degeneration of capillaries, and involuntary regression of glomus bodies explain the reduced digital blood flow associated with Raynaud's disease and phenomenon. The moment-to-moment digital blood flow, recorded rheoplethysmographically, was low when the patient was in a comfortable environment and was increased in a hot environment. This result substantiates the therapeutic importance of reflex vasodilatation. These findings correlate well with the ultrastructural changes in capillaries, including multiple cytoplasmic folds in endothelial cells, abundant intracytoplasmic filaments, and unusual incorporation of collagen fibrils in the basement membrane. These changes must influence nutritional and thermoregulatory function of the digital blood vessels.", "PMID": 453638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10692", "title": "Effect of gonadectomy on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction.", "content": "Adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to an isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Six weeks before the induction of myocardial infarction, some of the animals had been orchiectomized or ovariectomized. The animals were autopsied at regularly timed intervals on days 1, 2, 3, 8, and 15 after myocardial infarction. The gonadectomized animals manifested less severe untoward changes, survived in greater numbers, and experienced superior repair of their damaged hearts. Circulating levels of enzymes (e.g., CPK, GOT, GPT, and LDH), lipids, glucose, and BUN rose and fell during the acute necrosis and repair phases with distinct differences between the intact and castrated animals. Reciprocal changes in the weight of the adrenal and thymus glands, coupled with dynamic changes in circulating corticosterone levels, reflected marked temporal changes in the spectrum of adrenal steroids being secreted, as well as gonadal hormone mediated changes affecting adrenocortical function. The implications of these findings are that adrenocortical, androgenic, and estrogenic hormones condition the nature of the pathophysiologic response to acute myocardial infarction in rats.", "contents": "Effect of gonadectomy on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to an isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Six weeks before the induction of myocardial infarction, some of the animals had been orchiectomized or ovariectomized. The animals were autopsied at regularly timed intervals on days 1, 2, 3, 8, and 15 after myocardial infarction. The gonadectomized animals manifested less severe untoward changes, survived in greater numbers, and experienced superior repair of their damaged hearts. Circulating levels of enzymes (e.g., CPK, GOT, GPT, and LDH), lipids, glucose, and BUN rose and fell during the acute necrosis and repair phases with distinct differences between the intact and castrated animals. Reciprocal changes in the weight of the adrenal and thymus glands, coupled with dynamic changes in circulating corticosterone levels, reflected marked temporal changes in the spectrum of adrenal steroids being secreted, as well as gonadal hormone mediated changes affecting adrenocortical function. The implications of these findings are that adrenocortical, androgenic, and estrogenic hormones condition the nature of the pathophysiologic response to acute myocardial infarction in rats.", "PMID": 453639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10693", "title": "Value of treadmill exercise testing in patients with complete bundle branch block.", "content": "Exercise electrocardiography and selective coronary arteriography was performed in 24 consecutive patients with complete bundle branch block. The criteria for a positive exercise electrocardiogram (E-ECG) were a 1 mm depression or elevation in the J point from the control state, as well as in the ST-segment measured at 0.04 seconds from the J point. Eleven of 12 patients with complete left bundle branch block had a positive E-ECG. Nine of them had normal coronary arteriograms, except one with less than 50% lesions in two arteries. Two patients had severe three-vessel disease. Only one patient had a true negative exercise test. No patient had a false negative test. Nine of 12 patients with complete right bundle branch block had a positive E-ECG. One of these 9 had minimal nonobstructive disease, while the other 8 had severe two- or three-vessel coronary artery disease. Three of the 12 right bundle branch block patients had a negative E-ECG. Two of them had a true negative exercise test, and one a false negative test. Because of a high incidence of probably false positive results, E-ECG appears to be unreliable in detecting coronary artery disease in patients with complete left bundle branch block. But it can provide useful information in the noninvasive evaluation of coronary artery disease in patients with complete right bundle branch block.", "contents": "Value of treadmill exercise testing in patients with complete bundle branch block. Exercise electrocardiography and selective coronary arteriography was performed in 24 consecutive patients with complete bundle branch block. The criteria for a positive exercise electrocardiogram (E-ECG) were a 1 mm depression or elevation in the J point from the control state, as well as in the ST-segment measured at 0.04 seconds from the J point. Eleven of 12 patients with complete left bundle branch block had a positive E-ECG. Nine of them had normal coronary arteriograms, except one with less than 50% lesions in two arteries. Two patients had severe three-vessel disease. Only one patient had a true negative exercise test. No patient had a false negative test. Nine of 12 patients with complete right bundle branch block had a positive E-ECG. One of these 9 had minimal nonobstructive disease, while the other 8 had severe two- or three-vessel coronary artery disease. Three of the 12 right bundle branch block patients had a negative E-ECG. Two of them had a true negative exercise test, and one a false negative test. Because of a high incidence of probably false positive results, E-ECG appears to be unreliable in detecting coronary artery disease in patients with complete left bundle branch block. But it can provide useful information in the noninvasive evaluation of coronary artery disease in patients with complete right bundle branch block.", "PMID": 453640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10694", "title": "Inhaled atropine in asthma.", "content": "Ten adult asthmatics inhaled atropine and isoproterenol to determine the site of action in the airways and relative effectiveness of the two drugs. The two agents were equal in their effect on lung volumes and airway resistance but isoproterenol produced significantly better flows. Atropine was shown to be an effective bronchodilator with a predominant site of action in large airways. The authors believe atropine and atropine derivatives deserve ongoing investigation, especially regarding potential side effects of retarding mucociliary clearance and the clinical significance of apparent failure to dilate small airways.", "contents": "Inhaled atropine in asthma. Ten adult asthmatics inhaled atropine and isoproterenol to determine the site of action in the airways and relative effectiveness of the two drugs. The two agents were equal in their effect on lung volumes and airway resistance but isoproterenol produced significantly better flows. Atropine was shown to be an effective bronchodilator with a predominant site of action in large airways. The authors believe atropine and atropine derivatives deserve ongoing investigation, especially regarding potential side effects of retarding mucociliary clearance and the clinical significance of apparent failure to dilate small airways.", "PMID": 453644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10695", "title": "Relationship between response to exercise and allergy in patients with cystic fibrosis.", "content": "Responses to treadmill exercise of 36 patients with cystic fibrosis were studied to evaluate their usefulness in identifying those with atopy. Ten of 36 patients with cystic fibrosis (28%) had an abnormal response to exercise but had no more frequent atopic characteristics than those who had normal exercise responses. Response to treadmill exercise alone cannot identify patients with atopic disease among those with cystic fibrosis.", "contents": "Relationship between response to exercise and allergy in patients with cystic fibrosis. Responses to treadmill exercise of 36 patients with cystic fibrosis were studied to evaluate their usefulness in identifying those with atopy. Ten of 36 patients with cystic fibrosis (28%) had an abnormal response to exercise but had no more frequent atopic characteristics than those who had normal exercise responses. Response to treadmill exercise alone cannot identify patients with atopic disease among those with cystic fibrosis.", "PMID": 453645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10696", "title": "Treatment of active herpes virus infections with influenza virus vaccine.", "content": "A system for treating active virus infections with very small, precisely determined doses of specific killed-virus vaccine is described. Results indicate that the discomforts of influenza and herpes virus infections usually disappear within 30 minutes after injection of the vaccine. The relief occurs during testing and repeated subcutaneous injections produce rapid healing.", "contents": "Treatment of active herpes virus infections with influenza virus vaccine. A system for treating active virus infections with very small, precisely determined doses of specific killed-virus vaccine is described. Results indicate that the discomforts of influenza and herpes virus infections usually disappear within 30 minutes after injection of the vaccine. The relief occurs during testing and repeated subcutaneous injections produce rapid healing.", "PMID": 453646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10697", "title": "Assessment of a technique for scintigraphic monitoring of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents in asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux.", "content": "Ten asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux had scintigraphic evaluation of gastropulmonary aspiration. Five mCi of Tc99m sulfur colloid diluted in 50 ml of isotonic saline were administered by nasogastric tube at bed time and the lungs were imaged the following morning. Imaging in 20 studies yielded no evidence of gastropulmonary aspiration. Scintigraphic evaluation has previously been reported to demonstrate gastropulmonary aspiration in some patients with gastroesophageal reflux and pulmonary disease. This study indicates that the technique may lack adequate sensitivity or that gastropulmonary aspiration in asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux occurs in only a small subgroup of these patients or at infrequent intervals and is difficult to detect.", "contents": "Assessment of a technique for scintigraphic monitoring of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents in asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux. Ten asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux had scintigraphic evaluation of gastropulmonary aspiration. Five mCi of Tc99m sulfur colloid diluted in 50 ml of isotonic saline were administered by nasogastric tube at bed time and the lungs were imaged the following morning. Imaging in 20 studies yielded no evidence of gastropulmonary aspiration. Scintigraphic evaluation has previously been reported to demonstrate gastropulmonary aspiration in some patients with gastroesophageal reflux and pulmonary disease. This study indicates that the technique may lack adequate sensitivity or that gastropulmonary aspiration in asthmatics with gastroesophageal reflux occurs in only a small subgroup of these patients or at infrequent intervals and is difficult to detect.", "PMID": 453647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10698", "title": "North American pollinosis due to insect-pollinated plants.", "content": "In warmer regions of North America many newly introduced plants are cultivated widely and others are becoming aggresive naturalized weeds. A large number are insect-pollinated and shed considerable quantities of airborne pollen. Levels of allergenicity based on skin test data, numbers of patients having immediate hypersensitivity and localities where airborne pollen grains have been identified are presented for each genus of entomophilous plants considered incitants of pollinosis. Among the most relevant are Acacia, Brassica, Citrus, Ligustrum, Olea and Schinus.", "contents": "North American pollinosis due to insect-pollinated plants. In warmer regions of North America many newly introduced plants are cultivated widely and others are becoming aggresive naturalized weeds. A large number are insect-pollinated and shed considerable quantities of airborne pollen. Levels of allergenicity based on skin test data, numbers of patients having immediate hypersensitivity and localities where airborne pollen grains have been identified are presented for each genus of entomophilous plants considered incitants of pollinosis. Among the most relevant are Acacia, Brassica, Citrus, Ligustrum, Olea and Schinus.", "PMID": 453648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10699", "title": "Immunoglobulins and hyposensitization for allergy.", "content": "The premise that protracted stimulation of the human immune system might be involved in the induction of malignant immunocytopathies is scrutinized. Studies of the serum immunoglobulins of 313 patients who had been hyposensitized for allergy are compared with those of 138 nonallergic and 189 allergic individuals not subjected to this therapy. Critical historical data in all groups are also evaluated. The investigators concluded that, as far as the parameters studied, there were significant differences in the mean total immunoglobulin G levels in allergic hyposensitized persons compared with the non-allergic control group. It involved a depression of the serum IgG concentration and related to the length of the desensitization program and to whether it was continuous or interrupted. One evolving monoclonal immunocytopathy, etiology of which has not been established, was encountered during the period of study.", "contents": "Immunoglobulins and hyposensitization for allergy. The premise that protracted stimulation of the human immune system might be involved in the induction of malignant immunocytopathies is scrutinized. Studies of the serum immunoglobulins of 313 patients who had been hyposensitized for allergy are compared with those of 138 nonallergic and 189 allergic individuals not subjected to this therapy. Critical historical data in all groups are also evaluated. The investigators concluded that, as far as the parameters studied, there were significant differences in the mean total immunoglobulin G levels in allergic hyposensitized persons compared with the non-allergic control group. It involved a depression of the serum IgG concentration and related to the length of the desensitization program and to whether it was continuous or interrupted. One evolving monoclonal immunocytopathy, etiology of which has not been established, was encountered during the period of study.", "PMID": 453649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10700", "title": "The effect of cimetidine on the immediate cutaneous response to allergens.", "content": "The effects of an H2 antagonist cimetidine on the immediate cutaneous response to timothy or ragweed extract were evaluated. Cimetidine had no effect on the immediate cutaneous response to either allergen. These findings suggest that cimetidine need not be discontinued prior to allergy skin testing.", "contents": "The effect of cimetidine on the immediate cutaneous response to allergens. The effects of an H2 antagonist cimetidine on the immediate cutaneous response to timothy or ragweed extract were evaluated. Cimetidine had no effect on the immediate cutaneous response to either allergen. These findings suggest that cimetidine need not be discontinued prior to allergy skin testing.", "PMID": 453654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10701", "title": "Quantitative effect of theophylline anhydrous on exercise-induced asthma after maximal physical effort.", "content": "The quantitative effects of theophylline anhydrous upon exercise-induced asthma (EIA) were evaluated in asthmatic children. Theophylline inhibits EIA after maximal physical effort, increases tolerance to exercise and exerts a greater inhibitory effect upon larger than smaller airways. Its inhibitory effect seems not to be related to plasma theophylline levels.", "contents": "Quantitative effect of theophylline anhydrous on exercise-induced asthma after maximal physical effort. The quantitative effects of theophylline anhydrous upon exercise-induced asthma (EIA) were evaluated in asthmatic children. Theophylline inhibits EIA after maximal physical effort, increases tolerance to exercise and exerts a greater inhibitory effect upon larger than smaller airways. Its inhibitory effect seems not to be related to plasma theophylline levels.", "PMID": 453655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10702", "title": "Suppression of mitogen-induced, cell-mediated cytotoxicity by prostaglandin F2 alpha in bronchial asthma.", "content": "Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF 2 alpha) has a bronchoconstrictive effect on the smooth muscles of the bronchial tree, while a prostaglandin of the E series (PGE) provokes bronchodilatation in bronchial asthma (BA). The PGE series can suppress cytotoxic T lymphocytes and it was expected that PGF2 alpha would have the opposite effect, since similarities exist between microvilli of circulating blood lymphocytes and bronchial smooth muscles. Pharmacological modulation of lymphocytes, using a mitogen-induced, cell-mediated cytotoxicity assay (MICC), showed that PGF2 alpha suppresses cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes in BA patients and normal controls. This observation provides evidence that the spasmogenic effect of inhaled PGF2 alpha on the smooth muscles of the airways does not correspond to expected increased cytotoxicity of the circulating blood lymphocytes in vitro.", "contents": "Suppression of mitogen-induced, cell-mediated cytotoxicity by prostaglandin F2 alpha in bronchial asthma. Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF 2 alpha) has a bronchoconstrictive effect on the smooth muscles of the bronchial tree, while a prostaglandin of the E series (PGE) provokes bronchodilatation in bronchial asthma (BA). The PGE series can suppress cytotoxic T lymphocytes and it was expected that PGF2 alpha would have the opposite effect, since similarities exist between microvilli of circulating blood lymphocytes and bronchial smooth muscles. Pharmacological modulation of lymphocytes, using a mitogen-induced, cell-mediated cytotoxicity assay (MICC), showed that PGF2 alpha suppresses cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes in BA patients and normal controls. This observation provides evidence that the spasmogenic effect of inhaled PGF2 alpha on the smooth muscles of the airways does not correspond to expected increased cytotoxicity of the circulating blood lymphocytes in vitro.", "PMID": 453656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10703", "title": "On the correlation between rast and the allergy intradermal test.", "content": "RAST and intradermal testing correlated reasonably well for untreated patients for ragweed and molds and in treated patients for trees. Capillary blood was found to be comparable to venous blood as a source for RAST for ragweed and mixed grasses.", "contents": "On the correlation between rast and the allergy intradermal test. RAST and intradermal testing correlated reasonably well for untreated patients for ragweed and molds and in treated patients for trees. Capillary blood was found to be comparable to venous blood as a source for RAST for ragweed and mixed grasses.", "PMID": 453660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10704", "title": "Characteristics of the asthmatic airway response to inhaled diluent.", "content": "This study was designed to analyze the airway response to an aerosolized diluent in patients with asthma. Fifty percent of the patients responded to diluent with less than a 10% variation from baseline (non responders), but 20% of the patients responded with more than a 25% difference from baseline (responders). This study stresses the need for control data with diluent prior to bronchial challenge with a provocative agent.", "contents": "Characteristics of the asthmatic airway response to inhaled diluent. This study was designed to analyze the airway response to an aerosolized diluent in patients with asthma. Fifty percent of the patients responded to diluent with less than a 10% variation from baseline (non responders), but 20% of the patients responded with more than a 25% difference from baseline (responders). This study stresses the need for control data with diluent prior to bronchial challenge with a provocative agent.", "PMID": 453661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10705", "title": "Epidemiology of respiratory allergic disorders in a geriatric age group.", "content": "One hundred forty-eight patients with a respiratory allergic disorder between the ages of 60 and 84 were studied for one year. Emotional crises played an important role in the triggering of their symptoms. Heredity probably was as prevalent in this age group as in younger individuals. In most of the patients the first symptoms of their illness appeared in the years between 21 and 50. House dust was the most common allergenic factor in the causation of symptoms. This was favorable response and reduced the amount of supplemental medication required for symptom relief.", "contents": "Epidemiology of respiratory allergic disorders in a geriatric age group. One hundred forty-eight patients with a respiratory allergic disorder between the ages of 60 and 84 were studied for one year. Emotional crises played an important role in the triggering of their symptoms. Heredity probably was as prevalent in this age group as in younger individuals. In most of the patients the first symptoms of their illness appeared in the years between 21 and 50. House dust was the most common allergenic factor in the causation of symptoms. This was favorable response and reduced the amount of supplemental medication required for symptom relief.", "PMID": 453662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10706", "title": "Possible indirect binding of IgE in house dust RAST.", "content": "House dust subfractions obtained in the course of purification exhibit increasing skin reactivity in allergic patients, which runs parrallel to both complement-consuming and RAST-binding capacity. Working with highly purified house dust allergen in RAST, the correlation with clinical parameters for house dust allergy was found to remain poor. In a large group of sera a significant statistical correlation was found between total IgE and allergen-binding IgE. Ultracentrifugation experiments demonstrated that IgE binding to allergen in RAST occurs in complex with an unidentified serum protein. These results suggests that IgE binding in house dust RAST is indirect and is mediated by another serum factor.", "contents": "Possible indirect binding of IgE in house dust RAST. House dust subfractions obtained in the course of purification exhibit increasing skin reactivity in allergic patients, which runs parrallel to both complement-consuming and RAST-binding capacity. Working with highly purified house dust allergen in RAST, the correlation with clinical parameters for house dust allergy was found to remain poor. In a large group of sera a significant statistical correlation was found between total IgE and allergen-binding IgE. Ultracentrifugation experiments demonstrated that IgE binding to allergen in RAST occurs in complex with an unidentified serum protein. These results suggests that IgE binding in house dust RAST is indirect and is mediated by another serum factor.", "PMID": 453664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10707", "title": "Bacterial isolates associated with epididymitis in rams from Idaho and eastern Oregon flocks.", "content": "Testicles from 47 rams with palpable lesions of epididymitis were subjected to bacterial culture. Of the testicles examined by culture technique, 49% were positive for bacterial growth. The 2 most frequent isolates were Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (23.4% of the testicular pairs) and Brucella ovis (14.9% of the testicular pairs). Heretofore A actinomycetem-comitans has not been reported as a cause of epididymitis in rams.", "contents": "Bacterial isolates associated with epididymitis in rams from Idaho and eastern Oregon flocks. Testicles from 47 rams with palpable lesions of epididymitis were subjected to bacterial culture. Of the testicles examined by culture technique, 49% were positive for bacterial growth. The 2 most frequent isolates were Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (23.4% of the testicular pairs) and Brucella ovis (14.9% of the testicular pairs). Heretofore A actinomycetem-comitans has not been reported as a cause of epididymitis in rams.", "PMID": 453669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10708", "title": "Histopathologic features of the skin of hairless newborn pigs with goiter.", "content": "The skin of 15 hairless newborn pigs with parenchymatous goiter was studied histopathologically. Most of the lesions were in the hair follicles; follicles were scarce and reduced in size, contained slender hairs, and revealed a shortage of penetration into the hypodermis. Hair follicles in the immature stages, hair pegs, and germs also were recognized, with the thin epidermis lacking in keratinization. It was felt that these changes resulted from a retardation of cellular differentiation of the germinal layer. In view of these findings, skin lesions were regarded as hypoplasia of hair.", "contents": "Histopathologic features of the skin of hairless newborn pigs with goiter. The skin of 15 hairless newborn pigs with parenchymatous goiter was studied histopathologically. Most of the lesions were in the hair follicles; follicles were scarce and reduced in size, contained slender hairs, and revealed a shortage of penetration into the hypodermis. Hair follicles in the immature stages, hair pegs, and germs also were recognized, with the thin epidermis lacking in keratinization. It was felt that these changes resulted from a retardation of cellular differentiation of the germinal layer. In view of these findings, skin lesions were regarded as hypoplasia of hair.", "PMID": 453672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10709", "title": "Characterization and identification of a bovine respiratory syncytial virus isolated from young calves.", "content": "Two identical viruses designated 371 and 375 were recovered from nasal secretions of 2 of 7 calves in a beef cow-calf herd in which calves (45 to 105 days of age) had signs of acute respiratory tract disease. The cytopathic, morphologic and physico-chemical characteristics of the isolates were those of bovine respiratory syncytial virus. Although a humoral antibody response to bovine respiratory syncytial virus was not observed, it was concluded that this virus probably had a part in the respiratory tract disease in these calves.", "contents": "Characterization and identification of a bovine respiratory syncytial virus isolated from young calves. Two identical viruses designated 371 and 375 were recovered from nasal secretions of 2 of 7 calves in a beef cow-calf herd in which calves (45 to 105 days of age) had signs of acute respiratory tract disease. The cytopathic, morphologic and physico-chemical characteristics of the isolates were those of bovine respiratory syncytial virus. Although a humoral antibody response to bovine respiratory syncytial virus was not observed, it was concluded that this virus probably had a part in the respiratory tract disease in these calves.", "PMID": 453673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10710", "title": "Xylazine-induced hyperglycemia in beef cattle.", "content": "Intravenous administration of xylazine to beef cattle (10 animals, 0.2 mg/kg of body weight) resulted in rapid onset (less than 15 minutes) of hyperglycemia. Plasma glucose values increased to 195 +/- 15 mg/dl and 305 +/- 10 mg/dl at 15 minutes and 3 hours, respectively. Concomitantly, plasma insulin concentrations dropped from 23 +/- 2 microU/ml before xylazine to 5.8 +/- 0.7 microU/ml and 2.4 +/- 0.3 microU/ml at 15 minutes and 3 hours, respectively. Parallel decreases (20%) were observed for percentage of hemoglobin, red blood cell number, and packed cell volume. Plasma urea nitrogen was significantly (P less than 0.01) incrased within 3 hours of xylazine administration (6.7 +/- 0.9 mg/dl vs 11.4 +/- 0.7 mg/dl). Marked changes in concentrations of plasma-free fatty acids were not observed. Alternative means of anesthesia must be considered in those instances in which biopsy material is to be used for studies of carbohydrate metabolism in vitro.", "contents": "Xylazine-induced hyperglycemia in beef cattle. Intravenous administration of xylazine to beef cattle (10 animals, 0.2 mg/kg of body weight) resulted in rapid onset (less than 15 minutes) of hyperglycemia. Plasma glucose values increased to 195 +/- 15 mg/dl and 305 +/- 10 mg/dl at 15 minutes and 3 hours, respectively. Concomitantly, plasma insulin concentrations dropped from 23 +/- 2 microU/ml before xylazine to 5.8 +/- 0.7 microU/ml and 2.4 +/- 0.3 microU/ml at 15 minutes and 3 hours, respectively. Parallel decreases (20%) were observed for percentage of hemoglobin, red blood cell number, and packed cell volume. Plasma urea nitrogen was significantly (P less than 0.01) incrased within 3 hours of xylazine administration (6.7 +/- 0.9 mg/dl vs 11.4 +/- 0.7 mg/dl). Marked changes in concentrations of plasma-free fatty acids were not observed. Alternative means of anesthesia must be considered in those instances in which biopsy material is to be used for studies of carbohydrate metabolism in vitro.", "PMID": 453674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10711", "title": "Corticosteroid-potentiated vascular responses of the equine digit: a possible pharmacologic basis for laminitis.", "content": "Spirally cut digital arteries and veins were mounted isotonically in organ baths containing oxygenated Krebs' Q-Henseleit solution. Twelve arterial and 12 venous preparations all contracted dose dependently when epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, or histamine were added to the bathing fluid. Addition of hydrocortisone or betamethasone alone did not cause contractions in any of the tissues tested. However, when hydrocortisone or betamethasone was added to vessel strips that were partially contracted (40% to 60% maximal) by epinephrine, norepinephrine, or serotonin, each vessel strip invariably underwent an additional contraction. In venous and arterial strips, dose-response curves to epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, or histamine were established in the absence and in the presence of corticosteroid. Effects of the amines, except histamine, were markedly potentiated. The degree of corticosteroid/amine potentiation was greater for epinephrine than for norepinephrine and greater in the digital vein than in the corresponding artery from the same animal. Betamethasone was more potent than hydrocortisone.", "contents": "Corticosteroid-potentiated vascular responses of the equine digit: a possible pharmacologic basis for laminitis. Spirally cut digital arteries and veins were mounted isotonically in organ baths containing oxygenated Krebs' Q-Henseleit solution. Twelve arterial and 12 venous preparations all contracted dose dependently when epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, or histamine were added to the bathing fluid. Addition of hydrocortisone or betamethasone alone did not cause contractions in any of the tissues tested. However, when hydrocortisone or betamethasone was added to vessel strips that were partially contracted (40% to 60% maximal) by epinephrine, norepinephrine, or serotonin, each vessel strip invariably underwent an additional contraction. In venous and arterial strips, dose-response curves to epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, or histamine were established in the absence and in the presence of corticosteroid. Effects of the amines, except histamine, were markedly potentiated. The degree of corticosteroid/amine potentiation was greater for epinephrine than for norepinephrine and greater in the digital vein than in the corresponding artery from the same animal. Betamethasone was more potent than hydrocortisone.", "PMID": 453675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10712", "title": "Critical test evaluation of butamisole against gastrointestinal parasites of horses and ponies.", "content": "A critical test was performed to evaluate the anthelmintic properties of an injectable butamisole formulation and to compare the efficiency with that of a commercially available piperazine-thiabendazole anthelmintic. The test was done in 10 horses and 15 ponies with naturally acquired parasitic infections. Butamisole was administered at the dose level of 2.5 or 3.75 mg/kg of body weight by either subcutaneous or deep intramuscular injection. Given at the dose level of 2.5 mg/kg, butamisole was highly effective (99%) against Strongylus vulgaris and moderately effective (49%) against Parascaris equorum. At the 3.75 mg/kg dose rate, butamisole was highly effective against both S vulgaris (97%) and P equorum (94%). Butamisole had limited efficacy against other parasite species. Signs of toxicosis, long-term swelling of the injection sites, or tissue damage were not seen after injection.", "contents": "Critical test evaluation of butamisole against gastrointestinal parasites of horses and ponies. A critical test was performed to evaluate the anthelmintic properties of an injectable butamisole formulation and to compare the efficiency with that of a commercially available piperazine-thiabendazole anthelmintic. The test was done in 10 horses and 15 ponies with naturally acquired parasitic infections. Butamisole was administered at the dose level of 2.5 or 3.75 mg/kg of body weight by either subcutaneous or deep intramuscular injection. Given at the dose level of 2.5 mg/kg, butamisole was highly effective (99%) against Strongylus vulgaris and moderately effective (49%) against Parascaris equorum. At the 3.75 mg/kg dose rate, butamisole was highly effective against both S vulgaris (97%) and P equorum (94%). Butamisole had limited efficacy against other parasite species. Signs of toxicosis, long-term swelling of the injection sites, or tissue damage were not seen after injection.", "PMID": 453676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10713", "title": "Canine distemper virus-associated hypocalcemia.", "content": "A retrospective study was done to correlate serum calcium concentrations and parathyroid gland ultrastructure to clinical, immunologic, and pathologic changes experimentally induced in gnotobiotic dogs by canine distemper virus (CDV). Dogs infected with CDV had significantly reduced serum calcium concentrations associated with ultrastructural evidence of parathyroid gland inactivity, degeneration, and viral inclusions. Although CDV-infected dogs exhibited neurologic signs, minimal lesions were present in the central nervous system. It is suggested that viral-induced parathyroid dysfunction may contribute to neutrologic disturbance of CDV infection.", "contents": "Canine distemper virus-associated hypocalcemia. A retrospective study was done to correlate serum calcium concentrations and parathyroid gland ultrastructure to clinical, immunologic, and pathologic changes experimentally induced in gnotobiotic dogs by canine distemper virus (CDV). Dogs infected with CDV had significantly reduced serum calcium concentrations associated with ultrastructural evidence of parathyroid gland inactivity, degeneration, and viral inclusions. Although CDV-infected dogs exhibited neurologic signs, minimal lesions were present in the central nervous system. It is suggested that viral-induced parathyroid dysfunction may contribute to neutrologic disturbance of CDV infection.", "PMID": 453678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10714", "title": "Avian spirochetosis: natural transmission by Argas (Persicargas) sanchezi (Ixodoidea: argasidae) and existence of different serologic and immunologic types of Borrelia anserina in the United States.", "content": "A mild strain of Borrelia anserina was transmitted to chicks by an argasid tick identified as Argas (Persicargas)sanchezi Dug\u00e8s, 1887. Disease was transmitted regularly to chicks less than 2 to 3 weeks old, and rarely to chicks 4 weeks old or older. This spirochete isolate was demonstrated to be immunologically and serologically diverse from an isolate obtained earlier in Arizona. This is the first report of transmission of B anserina by A(P) sanchezi and of the presence of different serologic and immunologic isolates of this spirochete in the United States.", "contents": "Avian spirochetosis: natural transmission by Argas (Persicargas) sanchezi (Ixodoidea: argasidae) and existence of different serologic and immunologic types of Borrelia anserina in the United States. A mild strain of Borrelia anserina was transmitted to chicks by an argasid tick identified as Argas (Persicargas)sanchezi Dug\u00e8s, 1887. Disease was transmitted regularly to chicks less than 2 to 3 weeks old, and rarely to chicks 4 weeks old or older. This spirochete isolate was demonstrated to be immunologically and serologically diverse from an isolate obtained earlier in Arizona. This is the first report of transmission of B anserina by A(P) sanchezi and of the presence of different serologic and immunologic isolates of this spirochete in the United States.", "PMID": 453680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10715", "title": "Influence of ruminal insufflation on pulmonary function and diaphragmatic electromyography in cattle.", "content": "In 8 healthy, awake cows with permanent cannulated ruminal fistulas and carotid artery loops, respiratory mechanics, ventilation, and diaphragmatic electrical activity were studied before and during stepwise insufflation of the rumen with air pressure to 40 mm of Hg. We found that ruminal insufflation increased intraperitoneal, intrapleural, and transdiaphragmatic pressures and decreased lung volume and lung compliance. In individual cows with rumen insufflation there was an increase in pulmonary resistance, but this trend was not significant in the group. Peak expiratory flow rate was increased and peak inspiratory flow rate was unchanged. Inspiratory duration (Ti) decidal volume decreased slightly, breathing frequency decreased markedly, and minute volume decreased. When intraruminal pressure reached 40 mm of Hg, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) increased (P less than 0.01) and that of oxygen (PaO2) decreased (P less than 0,01) and arterial blood pH decreased (P less than 0.02). Diaphragmatic electromyographic activity was increased, but mechanical effectiveness of the diaphragm was reduced at increased intraruminal pressures.", "contents": "Influence of ruminal insufflation on pulmonary function and diaphragmatic electromyography in cattle. In 8 healthy, awake cows with permanent cannulated ruminal fistulas and carotid artery loops, respiratory mechanics, ventilation, and diaphragmatic electrical activity were studied before and during stepwise insufflation of the rumen with air pressure to 40 mm of Hg. We found that ruminal insufflation increased intraperitoneal, intrapleural, and transdiaphragmatic pressures and decreased lung volume and lung compliance. In individual cows with rumen insufflation there was an increase in pulmonary resistance, but this trend was not significant in the group. Peak expiratory flow rate was increased and peak inspiratory flow rate was unchanged. Inspiratory duration (Ti) decidal volume decreased slightly, breathing frequency decreased markedly, and minute volume decreased. When intraruminal pressure reached 40 mm of Hg, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) increased (P less than 0.01) and that of oxygen (PaO2) decreased (P less than 0,01) and arterial blood pH decreased (P less than 0.02). Diaphragmatic electromyographic activity was increased, but mechanical effectiveness of the diaphragm was reduced at increased intraruminal pressures.", "PMID": 453681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10716", "title": "Characterization of endotoxin from the rumen bacterium Megasphaera elsdenii.", "content": "Phenol-water extraction of Megasphaera elsdenii, a predominant gram-negative coccus in rumens of cattle fed high-grain diets, yielded material that exhibited typical characteristics of endotoxin. The extract was lethal to mice and to chicken embryos, caused biphasic fever in rabbits, leukopenia in mice, and local and generalized Shwartzman reactions; and induced tolerance to the lethal effect of the endotoxin in mice. The material contained carbohydrate, protein, lipid, phosphorus, and 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate, but no nucleic acid. The beta-hydroxymyristic acid was absent. Results imply that M elsdenii endotoxin has many biological and chemical characteristics common to enterobacterial endotoxin. However, the median lethal doses in mice and in chicken embryos, and minimal dose required to elicit a local Shwartzman reaction, indicate that M elsdenii endotoxin's potency is low, which may explain why the large gram-negative bacterial population in the rumen of cattle is generally innocuous.", "contents": "Characterization of endotoxin from the rumen bacterium Megasphaera elsdenii. Phenol-water extraction of Megasphaera elsdenii, a predominant gram-negative coccus in rumens of cattle fed high-grain diets, yielded material that exhibited typical characteristics of endotoxin. The extract was lethal to mice and to chicken embryos, caused biphasic fever in rabbits, leukopenia in mice, and local and generalized Shwartzman reactions; and induced tolerance to the lethal effect of the endotoxin in mice. The material contained carbohydrate, protein, lipid, phosphorus, and 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate, but no nucleic acid. The beta-hydroxymyristic acid was absent. Results imply that M elsdenii endotoxin has many biological and chemical characteristics common to enterobacterial endotoxin. However, the median lethal doses in mice and in chicken embryos, and minimal dose required to elicit a local Shwartzman reaction, indicate that M elsdenii endotoxin's potency is low, which may explain why the large gram-negative bacterial population in the rumen of cattle is generally innocuous.", "PMID": 453682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10717", "title": "Observations on the pathogenic effects of Nematodirus helvetianus in dairy calves.", "content": "Six Holstein-Friesian calves 3 to 5 months old, were used in a small-scale experiment to determine the pathogenic effects of the thread-necked strongyle Nematodirus helvetianus. Two calves were kept as controls and 4 were infected, 2 with single doses of 25,000, and 2 with 50,000 N helvetianus larvae. Observations made during the 8 weeks of the experiment found that N helvetianus is capable of producing severe pathologic changes in the intestine of previously healthy calves. At 38 days after infection, the calves infected with 25,000 and 50,000 larvae gained 32.9% and 72.4% less weight respectively, than their controls. An increase in total lymphocytes was observed with no significant change in hemoglobin concentration. Adult worms were found to penetrate the intestinal mucosa with considerable destruction, including tunneling. Rectal temperatures were elevated in infected animals. The prepatent period for N helvetianus in single infection was 18 to 19 days. A spontaneous expulsion of the adult parasites was observed in 1 of the calves exposed to 50,000 larvae. Worms recovered in this animal numbered 565, whereas the number of worms recovered in another calf infected with 50,000 larvae was 21,860.", "contents": "Observations on the pathogenic effects of Nematodirus helvetianus in dairy calves. Six Holstein-Friesian calves 3 to 5 months old, were used in a small-scale experiment to determine the pathogenic effects of the thread-necked strongyle Nematodirus helvetianus. Two calves were kept as controls and 4 were infected, 2 with single doses of 25,000, and 2 with 50,000 N helvetianus larvae. Observations made during the 8 weeks of the experiment found that N helvetianus is capable of producing severe pathologic changes in the intestine of previously healthy calves. At 38 days after infection, the calves infected with 25,000 and 50,000 larvae gained 32.9% and 72.4% less weight respectively, than their controls. An increase in total lymphocytes was observed with no significant change in hemoglobin concentration. Adult worms were found to penetrate the intestinal mucosa with considerable destruction, including tunneling. Rectal temperatures were elevated in infected animals. The prepatent period for N helvetianus in single infection was 18 to 19 days. A spontaneous expulsion of the adult parasites was observed in 1 of the calves exposed to 50,000 larvae. Worms recovered in this animal numbered 565, whereas the number of worms recovered in another calf infected with 50,000 larvae was 21,860.", "PMID": 453683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10718", "title": "Efficacy of Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterin in controlling enzootic atrophic rhinitis in swine.", "content": "The efficacy of a Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterin was evaluated in 2 commercial swine herds affected with mild and severe enzootic atrophic rhinitis (AR). In the 1st herd study, (mild AR), the degree of clinical AR, nasal turbinate evaluation, blood serum titer to B bronchiseptica antigen, and adjusted days from birth to 100 kg were determined for individual pigs. Bacterin inoculation reduced the incidence and severity of gross turbinate atrophy 57% and reduced clinical AR over 93%. Inoculated swine had an average blood serum-agglutinating titer greater than 1:2,793 and noninoculated (control) swine had an average titer of 1:112. Increased serum titer significantly (P less than 0.05) correlated with decreased degree of nasal turbinate atrophy. Inoculated and control pigs reached 100 kg in an average of 171 and 178 days after birth, respectively. In the 2nd study (severe enzootic AR), inoculated and control pigs were individually evaluated for clinical AR and total average daily weight gain. Inoculation reduced clinical AR over 90%. The total average daily gain for the inoculated and control pits was 435.84 g and 340.50 g, respectively. Inoculated pigs and control pigs reached 100-kg market weight in 184 and 238 days, respectively.", "contents": "Efficacy of Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterin in controlling enzootic atrophic rhinitis in swine. The efficacy of a Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterin was evaluated in 2 commercial swine herds affected with mild and severe enzootic atrophic rhinitis (AR). In the 1st herd study, (mild AR), the degree of clinical AR, nasal turbinate evaluation, blood serum titer to B bronchiseptica antigen, and adjusted days from birth to 100 kg were determined for individual pigs. Bacterin inoculation reduced the incidence and severity of gross turbinate atrophy 57% and reduced clinical AR over 93%. Inoculated swine had an average blood serum-agglutinating titer greater than 1:2,793 and noninoculated (control) swine had an average titer of 1:112. Increased serum titer significantly (P less than 0.05) correlated with decreased degree of nasal turbinate atrophy. Inoculated and control pigs reached 100 kg in an average of 171 and 178 days after birth, respectively. In the 2nd study (severe enzootic AR), inoculated and control pigs were individually evaluated for clinical AR and total average daily weight gain. Inoculation reduced clinical AR over 90%. The total average daily gain for the inoculated and control pits was 435.84 g and 340.50 g, respectively. Inoculated pigs and control pigs reached 100-kg market weight in 184 and 238 days, respectively.", "PMID": 453686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10719", "title": "Vitamin D intoxication and the pathogenesis of vitamin D nephropathy in the dog.", "content": "Dogs given excess vitamin D (500 or 1,000 micrograms/kg of body weight each day for 1 to 3 weeks were observed for clinical and pathologic changes of increased blood pressure and of characteristic nephropathy associated with vitamin D toxicosis or hypercalcemia. Serum calcium and serum urea nitrogen (UN) increased throughout the treatment period, but serum phosphorus remained within the normal range. Plasma renin activity increased markedly. Blood pressure showed only insignificnat changes (P = greater than 0.05). Gross and microscopic examination of the kidneys suggested vascular-oriented changes with an ischemic basis. Glomerular vascular poles showed hypertrophy and hyperplasia of juxtaglomerular cells. Ultrastructually, an increase in the number of secretory granules was noticed in these cells. A hypothesis regarding the mechanism of renal injury during vitamin D toxicosis is presented.", "contents": "Vitamin D intoxication and the pathogenesis of vitamin D nephropathy in the dog. Dogs given excess vitamin D (500 or 1,000 micrograms/kg of body weight each day for 1 to 3 weeks were observed for clinical and pathologic changes of increased blood pressure and of characteristic nephropathy associated with vitamin D toxicosis or hypercalcemia. Serum calcium and serum urea nitrogen (UN) increased throughout the treatment period, but serum phosphorus remained within the normal range. Plasma renin activity increased markedly. Blood pressure showed only insignificnat changes (P = greater than 0.05). Gross and microscopic examination of the kidneys suggested vascular-oriented changes with an ischemic basis. Glomerular vascular poles showed hypertrophy and hyperplasia of juxtaglomerular cells. Ultrastructually, an increase in the number of secretory granules was noticed in these cells. A hypothesis regarding the mechanism of renal injury during vitamin D toxicosis is presented.", "PMID": 453687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10720", "title": "Collateral vessel development, following unilateral chronic carotid occlusion in the dog.", "content": "Because much of the data base describing the physiology of cerebral circulation is based on experiments using the dog as a model and because the functional response to occlusion of arteries supplying the head have been shown to be different in man than in dogs, it is important that the growth and development of the extracerebral collateral circulation in dogs be documented. Using the techniques of corrosion casting, collateral vessel development was evaluated in adult mixed-breed dogs, following 4- and 8-week periods of unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery or the external carotid artery. Neurologic deficits or severe ischemia was not observed in any of the dogs during the postoperative period. Extensive collateralization occurred between the ipsilateral vertebral artery, regardless of the occlusion site. In addition, numerous collateral connections developed between the same vessel from the contralateral side. Two main patterns of collateral vessel organization consistently developed. Initially, a collateral network of highly tortuous superficial vessels predominated. With longer survival times after occlusion, deeper and more uniform-diameter direct-collateral vessels developed.", "contents": "Collateral vessel development, following unilateral chronic carotid occlusion in the dog. Because much of the data base describing the physiology of cerebral circulation is based on experiments using the dog as a model and because the functional response to occlusion of arteries supplying the head have been shown to be different in man than in dogs, it is important that the growth and development of the extracerebral collateral circulation in dogs be documented. Using the techniques of corrosion casting, collateral vessel development was evaluated in adult mixed-breed dogs, following 4- and 8-week periods of unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery or the external carotid artery. Neurologic deficits or severe ischemia was not observed in any of the dogs during the postoperative period. Extensive collateralization occurred between the ipsilateral vertebral artery, regardless of the occlusion site. In addition, numerous collateral connections developed between the same vessel from the contralateral side. Two main patterns of collateral vessel organization consistently developed. Initially, a collateral network of highly tortuous superficial vessels predominated. With longer survival times after occlusion, deeper and more uniform-diameter direct-collateral vessels developed.", "PMID": 453688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10721", "title": "Effects of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol on disuse osteoporosis in the dog: a histomorphometric study.", "content": "Disuse osteoporosis was produced in dogs by immobilization of the left rear limb in a plaster cast. The trabecular bone volume of the calcaneus was then determined following treatment with 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol for 4 weeks with oral dosages of 60 to 240 ng/kg of body weight. The trabecular bone volume percentage of the immobilized calcaneus was in direct relation to the dosage of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol.", "contents": "Effects of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol on disuse osteoporosis in the dog: a histomorphometric study. Disuse osteoporosis was produced in dogs by immobilization of the left rear limb in a plaster cast. The trabecular bone volume of the calcaneus was then determined following treatment with 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol for 4 weeks with oral dosages of 60 to 240 ng/kg of body weight. The trabecular bone volume percentage of the immobilized calcaneus was in direct relation to the dosage of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol.", "PMID": 453689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10722", "title": "Hemolytic activity of Fusobacterium necrophorum culture supernatants due to presence of phospholipase A and lysophospholipase.", "content": "Culture supernatants of Fusobacterium necrophorum demonstrated hemolytic activity. The hemolysin(s), which was partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, was temperature-dependent and heat labile. The spectrum of hemolytic activity against various erythrocytes included rabbit, human, and dog erythrocytes. Goats, sheep, and bovine erythrocytes showed only trace hemolysis. According to results of thin-layer chromatography, the hemolysin hydrolyzed rabbit erythrocyte phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, lysophosphatidyl choline, and bovine phosphatidyl choline. Hydrolysis of egg yolk phosphatidyl choline, bovine phosphatidyl ethanolamine, cholesterol, 1,2-dipalmitin, 1,3-dipalmitin, sphingomyelin, or triolein was not detected by thin layer chromatography. A more sensitive procedure utilizing gas-liquid chromatography revealed that, of the substrates tested, the following were bein hydrolyzed: bovine and egg yolk phosphatidyl choline, lysophosphatidyl choline, alpha-palmito-beta-eleoyl-L-alpha lecithin and alpha-oleoyl-betal-palmitoyl-L-alpha lecithin. Substrates which were weakly hydrolyzed were bovine phosphatidyl ethanolamine, DL-alpha-hosphatidyl ethanolamine dipalmitoyl, 1,2-dipalmitin, 1,3-dipalmitin, and triolein.", "contents": "Hemolytic activity of Fusobacterium necrophorum culture supernatants due to presence of phospholipase A and lysophospholipase. Culture supernatants of Fusobacterium necrophorum demonstrated hemolytic activity. The hemolysin(s), which was partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, was temperature-dependent and heat labile. The spectrum of hemolytic activity against various erythrocytes included rabbit, human, and dog erythrocytes. Goats, sheep, and bovine erythrocytes showed only trace hemolysis. According to results of thin-layer chromatography, the hemolysin hydrolyzed rabbit erythrocyte phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, lysophosphatidyl choline, and bovine phosphatidyl choline. Hydrolysis of egg yolk phosphatidyl choline, bovine phosphatidyl ethanolamine, cholesterol, 1,2-dipalmitin, 1,3-dipalmitin, sphingomyelin, or triolein was not detected by thin layer chromatography. A more sensitive procedure utilizing gas-liquid chromatography revealed that, of the substrates tested, the following were bein hydrolyzed: bovine and egg yolk phosphatidyl choline, lysophosphatidyl choline, alpha-palmito-beta-eleoyl-L-alpha lecithin and alpha-oleoyl-betal-palmitoyl-L-alpha lecithin. Substrates which were weakly hydrolyzed were bovine phosphatidyl ethanolamine, DL-alpha-hosphatidyl ethanolamine dipalmitoyl, 1,2-dipalmitin, 1,3-dipalmitin, and triolein.", "PMID": 453690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10723", "title": "Effects of lasalocid and monensin against experimentally induced coccidiosis in confinement-reared lambs from weaning to market weight.", "content": "Lasalocid and monensin were incorporated into pelleted feed and evaluated as anticoccidials in confinement-reared lambs from weaning to market weight. A total of 69 lambs were allotted to 3 equal groups that received unmedicated feed (100 mg/kg of food) or monensin-medicated feed (17 to 33 mg/kg). Each lamb was inoculated orally with a suspension of 24,000 oocysts (Eimeria spp) 24 and 52 days after the start of the experiment. Lasalocid and monensin were highly effective (greater than 99%) in eliminating oocysts of 5 species of ovine coccidia used in the inoculum. Treated lambs gained an average of 6 kg more weight (P less than 0.05) per animal than the untreated control lambs and consumed significantly (P less than 0.05) less feed for each kilogram gained. No statistical differences existed between treated groups (P greater than 0.05).", "contents": "Effects of lasalocid and monensin against experimentally induced coccidiosis in confinement-reared lambs from weaning to market weight. Lasalocid and monensin were incorporated into pelleted feed and evaluated as anticoccidials in confinement-reared lambs from weaning to market weight. A total of 69 lambs were allotted to 3 equal groups that received unmedicated feed (100 mg/kg of food) or monensin-medicated feed (17 to 33 mg/kg). Each lamb was inoculated orally with a suspension of 24,000 oocysts (Eimeria spp) 24 and 52 days after the start of the experiment. Lasalocid and monensin were highly effective (greater than 99%) in eliminating oocysts of 5 species of ovine coccidia used in the inoculum. Treated lambs gained an average of 6 kg more weight (P less than 0.05) per animal than the untreated control lambs and consumed significantly (P less than 0.05) less feed for each kilogram gained. No statistical differences existed between treated groups (P greater than 0.05).", "PMID": 453691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10724", "title": "Correlation between the function and structure of the lung in smokers.", "content": "To study the relationship between morphologic changes and alteration of lung function, the excised lobes of 21 smokers and one nonsmoker who required lobectomy for small peripheral tumors were inflated and fixed in formalin, and measurements of bronchiolar narrowing and degree of emphysema were made. All patients had comprehensive pulmonary function tests (including diffusing characteristics, the single-breath N2 test, measurements of elastic recoil, and flow-volume measurements with air and helium) performed before lobectomy. Eight of the lobes excised from the smokers had emphysema of grade 15 or more, the greatest being grade 50. Lobes from 11 patients had evidence of airway narrowing. There were 6 lobes with both emphysema and airway narrowing. Pulmonary function was abnormal in some aspect in all lobes except that from the nonsmoker. Whereas the tests of diffusing capacity, particularly the fractional uptake of CO, correlated with the degree of emphysema, the tests of elastic recoil were not predictive of this early degree of emphysema. The degree of small-airway narrowing correlated with maximal mid-expiratory flow rate and the single-breath N2 test. The maximal flow/static recoil pressure curves were the most sensitive indicators of airway abnormality in the patients with emphysema.", "contents": "Correlation between the function and structure of the lung in smokers. To study the relationship between morphologic changes and alteration of lung function, the excised lobes of 21 smokers and one nonsmoker who required lobectomy for small peripheral tumors were inflated and fixed in formalin, and measurements of bronchiolar narrowing and degree of emphysema were made. All patients had comprehensive pulmonary function tests (including diffusing characteristics, the single-breath N2 test, measurements of elastic recoil, and flow-volume measurements with air and helium) performed before lobectomy. Eight of the lobes excised from the smokers had emphysema of grade 15 or more, the greatest being grade 50. Lobes from 11 patients had evidence of airway narrowing. There were 6 lobes with both emphysema and airway narrowing. Pulmonary function was abnormal in some aspect in all lobes except that from the nonsmoker. Whereas the tests of diffusing capacity, particularly the fractional uptake of CO, correlated with the degree of emphysema, the tests of elastic recoil were not predictive of this early degree of emphysema. The degree of small-airway narrowing correlated with maximal mid-expiratory flow rate and the single-breath N2 test. The maximal flow/static recoil pressure curves were the most sensitive indicators of airway abnormality in the patients with emphysema.", "PMID": 453695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10725", "title": "Elastic recoil of the lung in cigarette smokers: the effect of nebulized bronchodilator and cessation of smoking.", "content": "The mechanical properties of the lung, forced vital capacity, flow-volume relationships, lung volume, and single-breath N2 curve were determined in 16 nonsmokers and 19 smokers. Pulmonary elastic recoil, Pst (1), was significantly lower at all lung volumes, as were flow parameters, whereas lung volumes were higher in smokers of both sexes. The variables derived from forced vital capacity and single-breath N2 were significantly different from nonsmokers in male smokers but not in female smokers. The inhalation of nebulized bronchodilator was attended by a significant decrease in Pst (1) and in upstream flow resistance in smokers. After cessation of smoking Pst (1) decreased to values similar to those seen after bronchodilator administration, whereas resumption of smoking led to reversal of the pressure-volume curve. The data suggest that the elastic properties of the lungs are altered in cigarette smokers, but the extent of the disturbance is masked by constriction of the alveolar ducts or peripheral airways while smoking, and that these are unmasked by the administration of nebulized bronchodilator or by cessation of smoking.", "contents": "Elastic recoil of the lung in cigarette smokers: the effect of nebulized bronchodilator and cessation of smoking. The mechanical properties of the lung, forced vital capacity, flow-volume relationships, lung volume, and single-breath N2 curve were determined in 16 nonsmokers and 19 smokers. Pulmonary elastic recoil, Pst (1), was significantly lower at all lung volumes, as were flow parameters, whereas lung volumes were higher in smokers of both sexes. The variables derived from forced vital capacity and single-breath N2 were significantly different from nonsmokers in male smokers but not in female smokers. The inhalation of nebulized bronchodilator was attended by a significant decrease in Pst (1) and in upstream flow resistance in smokers. After cessation of smoking Pst (1) decreased to values similar to those seen after bronchodilator administration, whereas resumption of smoking led to reversal of the pressure-volume curve. The data suggest that the elastic properties of the lungs are altered in cigarette smokers, but the extent of the disturbance is masked by constriction of the alveolar ducts or peripheral airways while smoking, and that these are unmasked by the administration of nebulized bronchodilator or by cessation of smoking.", "PMID": 453696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10726", "title": "Changes in the forced expiratory spirogram in young male smokers.", "content": "Forced expiratory spirograms and peak expiratory flow were measured in 102 resident male medical students (60 nonsmokers and 42 smokers). Forced vital capacity; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec expressed as a percentage of forced vital capacity; forced expiratory flows between 80 and 70 per cent, between 55 and 45 per cent, between 30 and 20 per cent, and between 15 and 5 per cent of the forced vital capacity; forced expiratory time for the last 0.5 liter of the forced vital capacity; and maximal mid-expiratory flow were determined from the forced expiratory spirogram. Peak expiratory flow, all forced expiratory flows (except the forced expiratory volume in 1 sec), and the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec to forced vital capacity were significantly lower, and forced expiratory time for the last 0.5 liter of the forced vital capacity was significantly higher in the heavy smokers (those who had smoked a lifetime total of more than 10,000 cigarettes) than the nonsmokers. The light smokers (those who smoked a lifetime total of fewer than 10,000 cigarettes) had values between those of nonsmokers and the heavy smokers. Thus, a definite dose-related response to smoking was seen. Flows at lower lung volumes showed greater percentage changes than flows at higher lung volumes. The forced expiratory flow between 30 and 20 per cent of the forced vital capacity was the most sensitive test for detecting abnormality in smokers. Among heavy smokers, 58 per cent had abnormally low forced expiratory flow between 30 and 20 per cent of the forced vital capacity, whereas only 47 per cent had abnormally low ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec to forced vital capacity, and 32 percent had abnormally low maximal mid-expiratory flow. The results show that even subjects with short smoking histories may have changes in pulmonary function that probably reflect narrowing of small airways. Moreover, these changes can easily be detected by simple tests, such as evaluation of a forced expiratory spirogram.", "contents": "Changes in the forced expiratory spirogram in young male smokers. Forced expiratory spirograms and peak expiratory flow were measured in 102 resident male medical students (60 nonsmokers and 42 smokers). Forced vital capacity; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec expressed as a percentage of forced vital capacity; forced expiratory flows between 80 and 70 per cent, between 55 and 45 per cent, between 30 and 20 per cent, and between 15 and 5 per cent of the forced vital capacity; forced expiratory time for the last 0.5 liter of the forced vital capacity; and maximal mid-expiratory flow were determined from the forced expiratory spirogram. Peak expiratory flow, all forced expiratory flows (except the forced expiratory volume in 1 sec), and the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec to forced vital capacity were significantly lower, and forced expiratory time for the last 0.5 liter of the forced vital capacity was significantly higher in the heavy smokers (those who had smoked a lifetime total of more than 10,000 cigarettes) than the nonsmokers. The light smokers (those who smoked a lifetime total of fewer than 10,000 cigarettes) had values between those of nonsmokers and the heavy smokers. Thus, a definite dose-related response to smoking was seen. Flows at lower lung volumes showed greater percentage changes than flows at higher lung volumes. The forced expiratory flow between 30 and 20 per cent of the forced vital capacity was the most sensitive test for detecting abnormality in smokers. Among heavy smokers, 58 per cent had abnormally low forced expiratory flow between 30 and 20 per cent of the forced vital capacity, whereas only 47 per cent had abnormally low ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec to forced vital capacity, and 32 percent had abnormally low maximal mid-expiratory flow. The results show that even subjects with short smoking histories may have changes in pulmonary function that probably reflect narrowing of small airways. Moreover, these changes can easily be detected by simple tests, such as evaluation of a forced expiratory spirogram.", "PMID": 453697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10727", "title": "Adaptation in human subjects to the effects of inhaled ozone after repeated exposure.", "content": "Single exposures to low concentrations of ozone (0.4 to 0.5 ppm) have resulted in decrements in forced vital capacity and specific airway conductance. To establish whether adaptation might occur with repeated exposure, 14 normal human subjects were exposed on 5 consecutive days to 0.4 ppm of ozone for 3 hours per day in an environmental chamber. Measurements of forced vital capacity and specific airway conductance obtained after exposure to ozone were compared to corresponding control values obtained during the previous week, when the same subjects breathed filtered air in the environmental chamber for 3 hours per day on 5 consecutive days at the same time of day. The forced vital capacity was significantly lower than the control value on the first 3 days of exposure to ozone, but there was no significant difference on the fourth and fifth days. Specific airway conductance was significantly lower than the control value on the first and second days of exposure to ozone; no significant difference was noted on the third, fourth, or final day. All subjects were symptomatic on the first and second days of exposure to ozone. Symptoms resolved thereafter, with only one subject remaining symptomatic on the final day of exposure to ozone.", "contents": "Adaptation in human subjects to the effects of inhaled ozone after repeated exposure. Single exposures to low concentrations of ozone (0.4 to 0.5 ppm) have resulted in decrements in forced vital capacity and specific airway conductance. To establish whether adaptation might occur with repeated exposure, 14 normal human subjects were exposed on 5 consecutive days to 0.4 ppm of ozone for 3 hours per day in an environmental chamber. Measurements of forced vital capacity and specific airway conductance obtained after exposure to ozone were compared to corresponding control values obtained during the previous week, when the same subjects breathed filtered air in the environmental chamber for 3 hours per day on 5 consecutive days at the same time of day. The forced vital capacity was significantly lower than the control value on the first 3 days of exposure to ozone, but there was no significant difference on the fourth and fifth days. Specific airway conductance was significantly lower than the control value on the first and second days of exposure to ozone; no significant difference was noted on the third, fourth, or final day. All subjects were symptomatic on the first and second days of exposure to ozone. Symptoms resolved thereafter, with only one subject remaining symptomatic on the final day of exposure to ozone.", "PMID": 453698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10728", "title": "Effect of low-level exposure to ozone on arterial oxygenation in humans.", "content": "We investigated the effect on arterial blood oxygenation of exposure to 0.2 ppm of ozone in purified air for 2 hours with intermittent light exercise and heat stress. Similar exposures to purified air alone provided control data. In 12 healthy volunteers, blood gases were measured before and during exposure via an indwelling brachial cannula. Six of these subjects and 6 other subjects underwent separate similar studies in which \"arterialized\" earlobe capillary blood was sampled. Arterial Po2 and alveolar-arterial Po2 differences varied significantly among different experimental conditions, but the variability was similar in the presence or absence of ozone. Small significant variations in body temperature were observed; these did not appear to be sufficient to affect blood gas measurements substantially. Over-all, we found no evidence for an adverse effect of the exposure to ozone on arterial oxygenation.", "contents": "Effect of low-level exposure to ozone on arterial oxygenation in humans. We investigated the effect on arterial blood oxygenation of exposure to 0.2 ppm of ozone in purified air for 2 hours with intermittent light exercise and heat stress. Similar exposures to purified air alone provided control data. In 12 healthy volunteers, blood gases were measured before and during exposure via an indwelling brachial cannula. Six of these subjects and 6 other subjects underwent separate similar studies in which \"arterialized\" earlobe capillary blood was sampled. Arterial Po2 and alveolar-arterial Po2 differences varied significantly among different experimental conditions, but the variability was similar in the presence or absence of ozone. Small significant variations in body temperature were observed; these did not appear to be sufficient to affect blood gas measurements substantially. Over-all, we found no evidence for an adverse effect of the exposure to ozone on arterial oxygenation.", "PMID": 453699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10729", "title": "An epidemiologic study of a group of talc workers.", "content": "Chest roentgenograms, pulmonary function assessment by spirometry, respiratory symptoms, smoking history, and occupational history by questionnaire were obtained from 121 male talc miners and millers exposed to talc containing tremolite and anthophyllite asbestiform fibers. Ninety-three of the employees had worked in talc only at the plant under study. Symptoms were only slightly more prevalent in talc workers when compared to potash miners. Mean pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in one sec, forced vital capacity, and maximal expiratory flow at 50 and 75 per cent of vital capacity) of talc workers was significantly decreased in comparison to that of potash miners. The prevalence of pleural calcification and pneumoconiosis in talc workers with 15 or more years of employment was higher than in potash miners. The prevalence of pleural thickening was 31 per cent in those who worked more than 15 years and was significantly increased as compared to that in potash miners. Workers with pleural thickening had decreased pulmonary function in comparison to those who did not. Decreased one-sec forced expiratory volume and forced vital capacity were associated with exposure to respirable particulate and asbestiform fibers.", "contents": "An epidemiologic study of a group of talc workers. Chest roentgenograms, pulmonary function assessment by spirometry, respiratory symptoms, smoking history, and occupational history by questionnaire were obtained from 121 male talc miners and millers exposed to talc containing tremolite and anthophyllite asbestiform fibers. Ninety-three of the employees had worked in talc only at the plant under study. Symptoms were only slightly more prevalent in talc workers when compared to potash miners. Mean pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in one sec, forced vital capacity, and maximal expiratory flow at 50 and 75 per cent of vital capacity) of talc workers was significantly decreased in comparison to that of potash miners. The prevalence of pleural calcification and pneumoconiosis in talc workers with 15 or more years of employment was higher than in potash miners. The prevalence of pleural thickening was 31 per cent in those who worked more than 15 years and was significantly increased as compared to that in potash miners. Workers with pleural thickening had decreased pulmonary function in comparison to those who did not. Decreased one-sec forced expiratory volume and forced vital capacity were associated with exposure to respirable particulate and asbestiform fibers.", "PMID": 453700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10730", "title": "The adaptive response of the rat lung after bilobectomy.", "content": "Rats 23 days of age were subjected to resection of the upper and middle lobes of the right lung. After 45 days of recovery, their lungs were fixed and the tissue was processed for quantitative light and electron microscopic analysis. Normal and sham-operated animals of identical age served as control animals. At death, the lobectomized rats had normal body weights and lung volumes; both the left lung and the remainder of the right lung participated proportionally in the restoration of the original lung volume. Air space, tissue and capillary volumes, and alveolar and capillary surface areas were as large as those of the control lungs. Tissue composition was slightly altered: the volume proportion of the interstitium was increased at the cost of the epithelium; endothelial volume density and air-blood barrier thicknesses were normal. Nonparenchymal structures had a smaller potential to adapt than the gas-exchanging parenchyma: the volume of conducting airways was smaller than expected for a normal lung. An analogous trend was observed for the larger blood vessels. Based on the recreated dimensions of the gas-exchange apparatus in operated animals, one can assume that the organ fully restores the conditions for adequate gas diffusion.", "contents": "The adaptive response of the rat lung after bilobectomy. Rats 23 days of age were subjected to resection of the upper and middle lobes of the right lung. After 45 days of recovery, their lungs were fixed and the tissue was processed for quantitative light and electron microscopic analysis. Normal and sham-operated animals of identical age served as control animals. At death, the lobectomized rats had normal body weights and lung volumes; both the left lung and the remainder of the right lung participated proportionally in the restoration of the original lung volume. Air space, tissue and capillary volumes, and alveolar and capillary surface areas were as large as those of the control lungs. Tissue composition was slightly altered: the volume proportion of the interstitium was increased at the cost of the epithelium; endothelial volume density and air-blood barrier thicknesses were normal. Nonparenchymal structures had a smaller potential to adapt than the gas-exchanging parenchyma: the volume of conducting airways was smaller than expected for a normal lung. An analogous trend was observed for the larger blood vessels. Based on the recreated dimensions of the gas-exchange apparatus in operated animals, one can assume that the organ fully restores the conditions for adequate gas diffusion.", "PMID": 453701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10731", "title": "Isoelectric analysis of respiratory mucus from normal rats and rats exposed to tobacco smoke.", "content": "Various functions of the pulmonary defense mechanism, such as ciliary beat and mucous transportation, and free lung cells have been studied in many experiments. The protein composition of the bronchial mucus and its viscosity, however, have been the subjects of few investigations. We have used an isoelectric focusing technique for protein separation and estimated a total error of measurement (variation between animals and residual error) to compare the bronchial mucus of normal control rats and rats exposed to tobacco smoke. Significant differences in the composition of the mucus were found; in addition, the composition of serum differed in some respects. The isoelectric focusing technique can be useful for protein analysis of bronchial mucus.", "contents": "Isoelectric analysis of respiratory mucus from normal rats and rats exposed to tobacco smoke. Various functions of the pulmonary defense mechanism, such as ciliary beat and mucous transportation, and free lung cells have been studied in many experiments. The protein composition of the bronchial mucus and its viscosity, however, have been the subjects of few investigations. We have used an isoelectric focusing technique for protein separation and estimated a total error of measurement (variation between animals and residual error) to compare the bronchial mucus of normal control rats and rats exposed to tobacco smoke. Significant differences in the composition of the mucus were found; in addition, the composition of serum differed in some respects. The isoelectric focusing technique can be useful for protein analysis of bronchial mucus.", "PMID": 453702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10732", "title": "Pleural-fluid kinetics in a patient with primary lymphedema, pleural effusions, and yellow nails.", "content": "We present the clinical findings in the thirteenth recorded patient with lymphedema, pleural effusions, and ungual dystrophy--the so-called \"yellow nail\" syndrome. The rate of pleural-fluid turnover was measured by using radioiodinated albumin to trace the efflux of fluid by lymphatics. The rate of pleural lymphatic flow was low in comparison to previous estimates obtained by the same method in a variety of other conditions. Such slow lymphatic flow is consistent with the postulate that accumulation of pleural fluid in this syndrome is due to defective lymphatic drainage.", "contents": "Pleural-fluid kinetics in a patient with primary lymphedema, pleural effusions, and yellow nails. We present the clinical findings in the thirteenth recorded patient with lymphedema, pleural effusions, and ungual dystrophy--the so-called \"yellow nail\" syndrome. The rate of pleural-fluid turnover was measured by using radioiodinated albumin to trace the efflux of fluid by lymphatics. The rate of pleural lymphatic flow was low in comparison to previous estimates obtained by the same method in a variety of other conditions. Such slow lymphatic flow is consistent with the postulate that accumulation of pleural fluid in this syndrome is due to defective lymphatic drainage.", "PMID": 453703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10733", "title": "Isoniazid prophylaxis among Alaskan Eskimos: a final report of the bethel isoniazid studies.", "content": "As a result of numerous trials, isoniazid prophylaxis was shown to be effective in preventing tuberculosis in many different populations and under a variety of conditions. However, the duration of the protective effect has been of some concern. In a previous report, the protective effect of isoniazid prophylaxis among Alaskan Eskimos was shown to persist through the fifteenth year after its administration. In this final report, the protective effect is shown to persist for more than 19 years. The magnitude of the effect is related to the amount of isoniazid taken. The results of the study are consistent with the hypothesis that the decrease in risk of tuberculosis produced by isoniazid preventive therapy is lifelong.", "contents": "Isoniazid prophylaxis among Alaskan Eskimos: a final report of the bethel isoniazid studies. As a result of numerous trials, isoniazid prophylaxis was shown to be effective in preventing tuberculosis in many different populations and under a variety of conditions. However, the duration of the protective effect has been of some concern. In a previous report, the protective effect of isoniazid prophylaxis among Alaskan Eskimos was shown to persist through the fifteenth year after its administration. In this final report, the protective effect is shown to persist for more than 19 years. The magnitude of the effect is related to the amount of isoniazid taken. The results of the study are consistent with the hypothesis that the decrease in risk of tuberculosis produced by isoniazid preventive therapy is lifelong.", "PMID": 453704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10734", "title": "Documentation of pulmonary capillary permeability in the adult respiratory distress syndrome accompanying human sepsis.", "content": "Current evidence suggests that pulmonary edema accompanying human sepsis may result either from changes in the serum oncotic and hydrostatic pressures or an increase in the permeability of the pulmonary microvasculature. In this study, we compared the \"clearance\" of injected 131I-labeled human serum albumin from blood to bronchoalveolar secretions in intubated patients with pulmonary edema secondary to sepsis or myocardial infarction. A significantly increased mean +/- SE clearance of the radionuclide was seen in patients with sepsis (0.34 +/- 0.03 ml per hour) compared to those with myocardial infarction (0.043 +/- 0.008 ml per hour) (P less than 0.001), although both groups had similar degrees of edema on chest radiographs. Because the patients with sepsis had no severe decrease in serum oncotic pressure (18.4 +/- 5.0 mm Hg) or evidence of left heart failure, as determined by the pulmonary wedge pressure (11.0 +/- 6.8 mm Hg), we concluded that the genesis of the pulmonary edema in sepsis was due to an increase in pulmonary microvascular permeability, as measured by the increased clearance of 131I-labeled human serum albumin.", "contents": "Documentation of pulmonary capillary permeability in the adult respiratory distress syndrome accompanying human sepsis. Current evidence suggests that pulmonary edema accompanying human sepsis may result either from changes in the serum oncotic and hydrostatic pressures or an increase in the permeability of the pulmonary microvasculature. In this study, we compared the \"clearance\" of injected 131I-labeled human serum albumin from blood to bronchoalveolar secretions in intubated patients with pulmonary edema secondary to sepsis or myocardial infarction. A significantly increased mean +/- SE clearance of the radionuclide was seen in patients with sepsis (0.34 +/- 0.03 ml per hour) compared to those with myocardial infarction (0.043 +/- 0.008 ml per hour) (P less than 0.001), although both groups had similar degrees of edema on chest radiographs. Because the patients with sepsis had no severe decrease in serum oncotic pressure (18.4 +/- 5.0 mm Hg) or evidence of left heart failure, as determined by the pulmonary wedge pressure (11.0 +/- 6.8 mm Hg), we concluded that the genesis of the pulmonary edema in sepsis was due to an increase in pulmonary microvascular permeability, as measured by the increased clearance of 131I-labeled human serum albumin.", "PMID": 453708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10735", "title": "Predictors of mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A 15-year follow-up study.", "content": "The relative usefulness of various initial findings in predicting survival is reported for 200 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who have been followed for approximately 15 years. After 5 years of follow-up, subjects 62 or more years of age showed a poorer survival rate than younger subjects. After controlling for age, the per cent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 sec after administration of bronchodilator was the best indicator of prognosis. In subjects less than 65 years of age, the presence or absence of cor pulmonale further improved the prediction of subsequent mortality. Regardless of initial findings, however, there was wide individual variability in prognosis, and factors relating to this variability remain obscure. No difference in survival rate was noted between the 178 male patients who were enrolled in Chicago 15 years ago and the 100 similarly impaired men enrolled in Tucson approximately 7 years ago.", "contents": "Predictors of mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A 15-year follow-up study. The relative usefulness of various initial findings in predicting survival is reported for 200 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who have been followed for approximately 15 years. After 5 years of follow-up, subjects 62 or more years of age showed a poorer survival rate than younger subjects. After controlling for age, the per cent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 sec after administration of bronchodilator was the best indicator of prognosis. In subjects less than 65 years of age, the presence or absence of cor pulmonale further improved the prediction of subsequent mortality. Regardless of initial findings, however, there was wide individual variability in prognosis, and factors relating to this variability remain obscure. No difference in survival rate was noted between the 178 male patients who were enrolled in Chicago 15 years ago and the 100 similarly impaired men enrolled in Tucson approximately 7 years ago.", "PMID": 453709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10736", "title": "Acute lobar atelectasis: a prospective comparison of fiberoptic bronchoscopy and respiratory therapy.", "content": "To evaluate the usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy for treatment of acute lobar atelectasis, 31 subjects were randomly allocated to fiberoptic bronchoscopy followed by respiratory therapy for 48 hours, or to respiratory therapy alone for the same period. No significant differences between groups with regard to restoration of volume loss were detected after the first treatment intervention, at 24 or at 48 hours (P greater than 0.20). Specifically, the mean percentage resolution of volume loss immediately after bronchoscopy (38 per cent) closely approximated that after the first respiratory therapy treatment in subjects who had not undergone bronchoscopy (37 per cent). An air bronchogram proved to be a predictor of delayed resolution for both groups. At 24 hours, 26 per cent of the air bronchograms demonstrated 83 per cent resolution (P less than 0.001). These results suggest that fiberoptic bronchoscopy does not add to respiratory therapy in the treatment of acute lobar atelectasis and that an air bronchogram predicts delayed resolution of collapse.", "contents": "Acute lobar atelectasis: a prospective comparison of fiberoptic bronchoscopy and respiratory therapy. To evaluate the usefulness of fiberoptic bronchoscopy for treatment of acute lobar atelectasis, 31 subjects were randomly allocated to fiberoptic bronchoscopy followed by respiratory therapy for 48 hours, or to respiratory therapy alone for the same period. No significant differences between groups with regard to restoration of volume loss were detected after the first treatment intervention, at 24 or at 48 hours (P greater than 0.20). Specifically, the mean percentage resolution of volume loss immediately after bronchoscopy (38 per cent) closely approximated that after the first respiratory therapy treatment in subjects who had not undergone bronchoscopy (37 per cent). An air bronchogram proved to be a predictor of delayed resolution for both groups. At 24 hours, 26 per cent of the air bronchograms demonstrated 83 per cent resolution (P less than 0.001). These results suggest that fiberoptic bronchoscopy does not add to respiratory therapy in the treatment of acute lobar atelectasis and that an air bronchogram predicts delayed resolution of collapse.", "PMID": 453712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10737", "title": "Malignant melanoma--an overview.", "content": "We have presented our experience in light of current practice in the management of malignant melanoma. Central to considerations of adequate management is the question of precise definition of the extent of the disease as determined by histologic evaluation, determination of the depth of penetration and assessment of the extent of spread. Wide surgical excision remains the most important consideration with perfusion therapy, in our view playing a key role in the management of extremity melanoma. Encouraging data for adjuvant immunotherapy continues to unfold. We present here a rational approach to diagnosis and management of malignant melanoma.", "contents": "Malignant melanoma--an overview. We have presented our experience in light of current practice in the management of malignant melanoma. Central to considerations of adequate management is the question of precise definition of the extent of the disease as determined by histologic evaluation, determination of the depth of penetration and assessment of the extent of spread. Wide surgical excision remains the most important consideration with perfusion therapy, in our view playing a key role in the management of extremity melanoma. Encouraging data for adjuvant immunotherapy continues to unfold. We present here a rational approach to diagnosis and management of malignant melanoma.", "PMID": 453713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10738", "title": "Significance of ankle blood pressure in the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease.", "content": "Lower extremity blood pressure, an accurate indicator of peripheral arterial disease and a sensitive means of evaluating therapy, is easily determined by the Doppler detector either at the bedside or in the physician's office. In conjunction with the exercise tolerance test and the ankle to arm ratio, it permits the physician to follow the course of the disease and assess the results of therapy. The test may also detect and determine the extent of presymptomatic arteriosclerosis obliterans when present in the opposite limb.", "contents": "Significance of ankle blood pressure in the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease. Lower extremity blood pressure, an accurate indicator of peripheral arterial disease and a sensitive means of evaluating therapy, is easily determined by the Doppler detector either at the bedside or in the physician's office. In conjunction with the exercise tolerance test and the ankle to arm ratio, it permits the physician to follow the course of the disease and assess the results of therapy. The test may also detect and determine the extent of presymptomatic arteriosclerosis obliterans when present in the opposite limb.", "PMID": 453715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10739", "title": "Aspiration pneumonia: a ten-year review.", "content": "Aspiration pneumonitis is an important cause of many anesthetic and non-surgical deaths and complication. One hundred and eight cases from 1964 to 1974 were reviewed to study the factors associated with aspiration pneumonia. Forty surgical and 68 non-surgical patients were evaluated and compared. Predisposing factors included impaired consciousness, esophageal and neurological disorders, cardiac resuscitation, debilitation, presence of a nasogastric tube or tracheostomy. The most common findings in both groups were dyspnea, cough, cyanosis, fever, tachycardia, rhonchi, rales and wheezes. Sputa of 64 patients failed to reveal the precise etiologic agent. High mortality (30%) and morbidity were found in both groups even with optimum treatment. The causes of morbidity in both groups of patients were pneumonia, lung abscess, myocardial infarction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and pulmonary embolus. Prevention, with particular attention to high-risk patients and to factors influencing aspiration in groups of surgical and non-surgical patients, is the solution to the problem.", "contents": "Aspiration pneumonia: a ten-year review. Aspiration pneumonitis is an important cause of many anesthetic and non-surgical deaths and complication. One hundred and eight cases from 1964 to 1974 were reviewed to study the factors associated with aspiration pneumonia. Forty surgical and 68 non-surgical patients were evaluated and compared. Predisposing factors included impaired consciousness, esophageal and neurological disorders, cardiac resuscitation, debilitation, presence of a nasogastric tube or tracheostomy. The most common findings in both groups were dyspnea, cough, cyanosis, fever, tachycardia, rhonchi, rales and wheezes. Sputa of 64 patients failed to reveal the precise etiologic agent. High mortality (30%) and morbidity were found in both groups even with optimum treatment. The causes of morbidity in both groups of patients were pneumonia, lung abscess, myocardial infarction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and pulmonary embolus. Prevention, with particular attention to high-risk patients and to factors influencing aspiration in groups of surgical and non-surgical patients, is the solution to the problem.", "PMID": 453716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10740", "title": "Studies in burns, XVI: The effect of surgical trauma on metabolic heat production.", "content": "As part of an ongoing study of the naturally-occurring skin lipid ethyl linoleate as an adjunct for reducing post-burn hypermetabolism and hyperevaporation, we have conducted a series of evaluations of metabolic heat production (M) using a clinical partitional calorimeter. In this article, we describe the metabolic chamber and its use in evaluating the change in M in pre- and postoperative patients. We determined that dry heat losses (radiation and convection) comprise the major components of heat loss in the \"normal\" and traumatized individual with intact skin. In the post-operative state, metabolic heat production increases significantly above the preoperative levels, the percentage of change being accurately described by a first order exponential equation. In the postoperative patient, possibly because of a physiologic shift in source of metabolic substrate, stored heat increases significantly. These data may be useful in allowing approximate correction of the metabolic heat equation when studying the burn patient where no \"control\" is attainable and where some approximation of the contribution of \"pure\" trauma must be made.", "contents": "Studies in burns, XVI: The effect of surgical trauma on metabolic heat production. As part of an ongoing study of the naturally-occurring skin lipid ethyl linoleate as an adjunct for reducing post-burn hypermetabolism and hyperevaporation, we have conducted a series of evaluations of metabolic heat production (M) using a clinical partitional calorimeter. In this article, we describe the metabolic chamber and its use in evaluating the change in M in pre- and postoperative patients. We determined that dry heat losses (radiation and convection) comprise the major components of heat loss in the \"normal\" and traumatized individual with intact skin. In the post-operative state, metabolic heat production increases significantly above the preoperative levels, the percentage of change being accurately described by a first order exponential equation. In the postoperative patient, possibly because of a physiologic shift in source of metabolic substrate, stored heat increases significantly. These data may be useful in allowing approximate correction of the metabolic heat equation when studying the burn patient where no \"control\" is attainable and where some approximation of the contribution of \"pure\" trauma must be made.", "PMID": 453717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10741", "title": "Thiamine deficiency in general hospital patients.", "content": "The production of sedoheptulose-7-phosphate in the red blood cells of 15 patients was found to be below the suggested normal value. This intermediate product of glucose metabolism is the result of transketolase activity for which thiamine pyrophosphate is one of the co-factors. Without thiamine, the transketolase reaction is inhibited. Some nonlocalizing symptoms, perhaps previously thought due to hypoglycemia, may be occasioned by faulty glucose metabolism at the cellular level from a relative lack of thiamine.", "contents": "Thiamine deficiency in general hospital patients. The production of sedoheptulose-7-phosphate in the red blood cells of 15 patients was found to be below the suggested normal value. This intermediate product of glucose metabolism is the result of transketolase activity for which thiamine pyrophosphate is one of the co-factors. Without thiamine, the transketolase reaction is inhibited. Some nonlocalizing symptoms, perhaps previously thought due to hypoglycemia, may be occasioned by faulty glucose metabolism at the cellular level from a relative lack of thiamine.", "PMID": 453718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10742", "title": "Chemoneurolysis of the canine gastric submucosa: modification of surgically-induced peptic ulcer formation.", "content": "Chemoneurolysis of the canine antral submucosa with 25% ethyl alcohol solutions reduced ulcer formation and increased the survival times in animals subjected to the Exalto-Mann-Williamson ulcer-producing procedure.", "contents": "Chemoneurolysis of the canine gastric submucosa: modification of surgically-induced peptic ulcer formation. Chemoneurolysis of the canine antral submucosa with 25% ethyl alcohol solutions reduced ulcer formation and increased the survival times in animals subjected to the Exalto-Mann-Williamson ulcer-producing procedure.", "PMID": 453720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10743", "title": "Catamenial pneumothorax: case report and a review of the literature.", "content": "Catamenial pneumothorax, a rare but well documented syndrome of recurrent perimenstrual pneumothorax, is being reported with increasing frequency, probably because of increased awareness. Its pathogenesis remains enigmatic but may be associated with hormonal influcences, including the prostaglandins. Its right-sided predilection remains a mystery. the experience of 42 cases in the literature as well as a new case is presented. A rational approach to this interesting syndrome is discussed. Ovulatory suppression should be attempted before thoracotomy and pleurodesis are considered.", "contents": "Catamenial pneumothorax: case report and a review of the literature. Catamenial pneumothorax, a rare but well documented syndrome of recurrent perimenstrual pneumothorax, is being reported with increasing frequency, probably because of increased awareness. Its pathogenesis remains enigmatic but may be associated with hormonal influcences, including the prostaglandins. Its right-sided predilection remains a mystery. the experience of 42 cases in the literature as well as a new case is presented. A rational approach to this interesting syndrome is discussed. Ovulatory suppression should be attempted before thoracotomy and pleurodesis are considered.", "PMID": 453721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10744", "title": "Ambulatory surgery for pilonidal disease.", "content": "In conclusion, pilonidal cysts, sinuses, and abscesses appear to be acquired lesions, perhaps enhanced by the developmental presence of deep intergluteal clefts, dimples, or sinuses. The pahtophysiology depends upon physical invasion of hair, lint, and other foreign material into the subcutaneum and the formation of a foreign body reaction. Appropriate treatment is drainage of the infected cavity and removal of foreign material. Adherence to basic principles of treating surgical infection is necessary for a good result. Prevention of treatment failure demands a conscious attention by the patient to personal hygiene to avoid accumulation of debris and repeat occurrence of the pathophysiologic process. Adequate surgical management can be performed on ambulatory outpatients with tolerable discomfort. This method features a minimal loss of man-days and an acceptable recurrence rate. A major advantage is cost-effectiveness.", "contents": "Ambulatory surgery for pilonidal disease. In conclusion, pilonidal cysts, sinuses, and abscesses appear to be acquired lesions, perhaps enhanced by the developmental presence of deep intergluteal clefts, dimples, or sinuses. The pahtophysiology depends upon physical invasion of hair, lint, and other foreign material into the subcutaneum and the formation of a foreign body reaction. Appropriate treatment is drainage of the infected cavity and removal of foreign material. Adherence to basic principles of treating surgical infection is necessary for a good result. Prevention of treatment failure demands a conscious attention by the patient to personal hygiene to avoid accumulation of debris and repeat occurrence of the pathophysiologic process. Adequate surgical management can be performed on ambulatory outpatients with tolerable discomfort. This method features a minimal loss of man-days and an acceptable recurrence rate. A major advantage is cost-effectiveness.", "PMID": 453724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10745", "title": "Chest disease presenting as an acute abdomen.", "content": "Four patients with primary disease in the chest are discussed, each coming to laparotomy. The final postoperative diagnoses were empyema, pulmonary tuberculosis, pulmonary embolism and bacterial endocarditis. These cases well illustrate the real risk of confusing an acute chest condition with an acute abdomen.", "contents": "Chest disease presenting as an acute abdomen. Four patients with primary disease in the chest are discussed, each coming to laparotomy. The final postoperative diagnoses were empyema, pulmonary tuberculosis, pulmonary embolism and bacterial endocarditis. These cases well illustrate the real risk of confusing an acute chest condition with an acute abdomen.", "PMID": 453725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10746", "title": "Gonococcal perihepatitis (the Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome): a diagnostic dilemma.", "content": "Three case histories of patients who were treated for gonococcal perihepatitis (Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome) are reviewed. The incidence rate of this disease process is believed to be increasing, and a surgical consultation is often asked for in the evaluation of these individuals. The diagnosis of FHCS requires a high index of suspicion. However, if a patient has signs and symptoms of acute cholecystitis plus the recent onset of a purulent genitourinary infection, the diagnosis of FHCS is suggested. Confirmation of this diagnosis is obtained with the culturing of N. gonorrheae from urethral or cervical secretions. The clinical presentation may vary from a moderately symptomatic to an acutely ill individual. Most commonly there is an abrupt onset of sharp right upper quadrant pain. The finding of any degree of lower abdominal or pelvic tenderness in addition to the upper abdominal pain, should make one highly suspicious of pelvic inflammatory disease and concommitant FHCS. Although no deaths have been reported from this syndrome, it is important to make a prompt clinical diagnosis and commence appropriate antibiotic therapy. The currently recommended therapeutic regimen is procaine penicillin, 1,200,000 U, twice a day for 10 days.", "contents": "Gonococcal perihepatitis (the Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome): a diagnostic dilemma. Three case histories of patients who were treated for gonococcal perihepatitis (Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome) are reviewed. The incidence rate of this disease process is believed to be increasing, and a surgical consultation is often asked for in the evaluation of these individuals. The diagnosis of FHCS requires a high index of suspicion. However, if a patient has signs and symptoms of acute cholecystitis plus the recent onset of a purulent genitourinary infection, the diagnosis of FHCS is suggested. Confirmation of this diagnosis is obtained with the culturing of N. gonorrheae from urethral or cervical secretions. The clinical presentation may vary from a moderately symptomatic to an acutely ill individual. Most commonly there is an abrupt onset of sharp right upper quadrant pain. The finding of any degree of lower abdominal or pelvic tenderness in addition to the upper abdominal pain, should make one highly suspicious of pelvic inflammatory disease and concommitant FHCS. Although no deaths have been reported from this syndrome, it is important to make a prompt clinical diagnosis and commence appropriate antibiotic therapy. The currently recommended therapeutic regimen is procaine penicillin, 1,200,000 U, twice a day for 10 days.", "PMID": 453727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10747", "title": "Colitis and pseudomembranous colitis associated with cephazolin prophylaxis.", "content": "Three patients suffering from colitis associated with cephalexin therapy are reported. All had undergone surgery and had previously suffered severe associated medical problems. Their presenting symptoms included profuse diarrhea, vague abdominal pain, fever and leukocytosis, but all stool cultures were negative. In one case, a pseudomembrane was present; in another only acute inflammatory changes, and in the third patient, no proctosigmoidoscopy or biopsy was done. Cephalosporin therapy was halted and bowel rest as well as intravenous hydration were instituted. All three patients survived. Inasmuch as four cases of colitis associated with cephalosporin therapy have now been treated at UCLA Hospital, the authors believe that this diagnosis should be strongly considered when patients on cephalosporin develop diarrhea.", "contents": "Colitis and pseudomembranous colitis associated with cephazolin prophylaxis. Three patients suffering from colitis associated with cephalexin therapy are reported. All had undergone surgery and had previously suffered severe associated medical problems. Their presenting symptoms included profuse diarrhea, vague abdominal pain, fever and leukocytosis, but all stool cultures were negative. In one case, a pseudomembrane was present; in another only acute inflammatory changes, and in the third patient, no proctosigmoidoscopy or biopsy was done. Cephalosporin therapy was halted and bowel rest as well as intravenous hydration were instituted. All three patients survived. Inasmuch as four cases of colitis associated with cephalosporin therapy have now been treated at UCLA Hospital, the authors believe that this diagnosis should be strongly considered when patients on cephalosporin develop diarrhea.", "PMID": 453729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10748", "title": "Rapidly spreading subcutaneous inflammation after \"skin popping\" in drug addicts.", "content": "A lethal rapidly spreading inflammation and necrosis of subcutaneous fat followed by progressive multiple organ failure is described in two drug addicts after subcutaneous injection of narcotics. The etiology of this process is unknown, but early recognition and extensive surgical debridement may prevent death.", "contents": "Rapidly spreading subcutaneous inflammation after \"skin popping\" in drug addicts. A lethal rapidly spreading inflammation and necrosis of subcutaneous fat followed by progressive multiple organ failure is described in two drug addicts after subcutaneous injection of narcotics. The etiology of this process is unknown, but early recognition and extensive surgical debridement may prevent death.", "PMID": 453731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10749", "title": "Canine shock: irreversibility and coagulopathy.", "content": "Canine shock was experimentally induced by \"superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion followed by release:\" two hours of occlusion produced reversible shock while four hours of occlusion caused irreversible shock. In both situations, the animals showed coagulopathy but the magnitude of same was more severe in animals with irreversible shock. The nature of coagulation changes was suggestive of intravascular coagulation. Histological changes showed widespread intravascular fibrin thrombi in the liver and the kidney in animals with irreversible shock and only limited local intravascular coagulation in the subcapsular region of the liver in those with reversible shock. The importance of diffuse intravascular coagulation in the irreversibility of shock was also corroborated by the \"reversion\" of shock by prior heparinization.", "contents": "Canine shock: irreversibility and coagulopathy. Canine shock was experimentally induced by \"superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion followed by release:\" two hours of occlusion produced reversible shock while four hours of occlusion caused irreversible shock. In both situations, the animals showed coagulopathy but the magnitude of same was more severe in animals with irreversible shock. The nature of coagulation changes was suggestive of intravascular coagulation. Histological changes showed widespread intravascular fibrin thrombi in the liver and the kidney in animals with irreversible shock and only limited local intravascular coagulation in the subcapsular region of the liver in those with reversible shock. The importance of diffuse intravascular coagulation in the irreversibility of shock was also corroborated by the \"reversion\" of shock by prior heparinization.", "PMID": 453733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10750", "title": "Treatment of hiatal hernia with esophagitis in a patient using esophageal speech after laryngectomy.", "content": "Severe reflux esophagitis occurring after total laryngectomy in a patient who has learned to communicate by esophageal speech represents a unique problem in management. It was anticipated that an antireflux operation might interfere with esophageal speech. A Nissen fundoplication resulted in complete resolution of signs and symptoms of reflux esophagitis without compromising esophageal speech. A comparison of pre- and post-operative speech functions suggests that more noticeable changes could result after an antireflux operation in the less proficient speaker and, therefore, only those patients with persistent and unresponsive reflux esophagitis should be operated upon.", "contents": "Treatment of hiatal hernia with esophagitis in a patient using esophageal speech after laryngectomy. Severe reflux esophagitis occurring after total laryngectomy in a patient who has learned to communicate by esophageal speech represents a unique problem in management. It was anticipated that an antireflux operation might interfere with esophageal speech. A Nissen fundoplication resulted in complete resolution of signs and symptoms of reflux esophagitis without compromising esophageal speech. A comparison of pre- and post-operative speech functions suggests that more noticeable changes could result after an antireflux operation in the less proficient speaker and, therefore, only those patients with persistent and unresponsive reflux esophagitis should be operated upon.", "PMID": 453734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10751", "title": "Triplication of the gallbladder: review of literature and report of a case.", "content": "A case of triplication of the gallbladder is presented. This is the ninth case to be reported in the world literature. The triple gallbladder with a common cystic duct was found on single dose oral cholecystogram during the gastrointestinal evaluation of a man with hematemesis. No surgery was performed due to the absence of biliary tract symptoms and absence of pathology on roentgenograms. The embryology, anatomy, pathology, and clinical significance of vesica fellea triplex are discussed and the previous eight case reports are reviewed.", "contents": "Triplication of the gallbladder: review of literature and report of a case. A case of triplication of the gallbladder is presented. This is the ninth case to be reported in the world literature. The triple gallbladder with a common cystic duct was found on single dose oral cholecystogram during the gastrointestinal evaluation of a man with hematemesis. No surgery was performed due to the absence of biliary tract symptoms and absence of pathology on roentgenograms. The embryology, anatomy, pathology, and clinical significance of vesica fellea triplex are discussed and the previous eight case reports are reviewed.", "PMID": 453735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10752", "title": "Heterotopic gastric mucosa of the small bowel with perforated ulcer.", "content": "A patient with heterotopic gastric mucosa of the small intestine with perforation of the ileum due to ulceration of the adjacent mucosa is presented. Twelve symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases from the literature are reviewed. The majority of patients presented with intermittent obstruction due to intussusception of the ectopic gastric mass. Hemorrhage or chronic blood loss anemia occurred in the three patients in whom ulceration was present, and one of these patients had an intestinal perforation.", "contents": "Heterotopic gastric mucosa of the small bowel with perforated ulcer. A patient with heterotopic gastric mucosa of the small intestine with perforation of the ileum due to ulceration of the adjacent mucosa is presented. Twelve symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases from the literature are reviewed. The majority of patients presented with intermittent obstruction due to intussusception of the ectopic gastric mass. Hemorrhage or chronic blood loss anemia occurred in the three patients in whom ulceration was present, and one of these patients had an intestinal perforation.", "PMID": 453736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10753", "title": "Replacement of dislodged biliary catheters using angiographic techniques and the fiberoptic bronchoscope.", "content": "A method for replacing biliary tract catheters with angiographic techniques is described, along with clinical experience in its use. Situations which at first seem hopeless may in fact be simply resolved as in the first instance. We found the fiberoptic scope to be useful when the cannulation tract involves a segment of bowel.", "contents": "Replacement of dislodged biliary catheters using angiographic techniques and the fiberoptic bronchoscope. A method for replacing biliary tract catheters with angiographic techniques is described, along with clinical experience in its use. Situations which at first seem hopeless may in fact be simply resolved as in the first instance. We found the fiberoptic scope to be useful when the cannulation tract involves a segment of bowel.", "PMID": 453737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10754", "title": "An extended wear hard contact lens in aphakia.", "content": "In reviewing the literature, there are several reports of limited success with both hard and soft contact lenses for continuous or extended wear. Aphakia is the most common indication for continuous wear, especially in monocular aphakes who are unable to insert and remove their lenses for various reasons. Because of its unusual oxygen permeability, silicone is the logical choice of material for an extended wear lens. However, because of the problems in manufacture, as well as its hydrophobic characteristics, poor centering, and problems with proper edging, no silicone lens has had wide clinical application to date. This paper reports on a preliminary study in a group of 21 aphakic patients fitted with the Polycon lens made of a new material consisting of polymethylmethacrylate in combination with silicone. Although gas permeable, the oxygen permeability is probably not adequate to maintain corneal metabolism without some interchange of oxygen containing tears. However, a significant proportion of the patients were able to wear this lens for an extended period of time without removal.", "contents": "An extended wear hard contact lens in aphakia. In reviewing the literature, there are several reports of limited success with both hard and soft contact lenses for continuous or extended wear. Aphakia is the most common indication for continuous wear, especially in monocular aphakes who are unable to insert and remove their lenses for various reasons. Because of its unusual oxygen permeability, silicone is the logical choice of material for an extended wear lens. However, because of the problems in manufacture, as well as its hydrophobic characteristics, poor centering, and problems with proper edging, no silicone lens has had wide clinical application to date. This paper reports on a preliminary study in a group of 21 aphakic patients fitted with the Polycon lens made of a new material consisting of polymethylmethacrylate in combination with silicone. Although gas permeable, the oxygen permeability is probably not adequate to maintain corneal metabolism without some interchange of oxygen containing tears. However, a significant proportion of the patients were able to wear this lens for an extended period of time without removal.", "PMID": 453738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10755", "title": "Subconjunctival steroid injections for the treatment of chemically burned eyes.", "content": "We believe that the utilization of a subconjuctival steroid injection, where indicated, will be of great benefit in the hands of a clinician who treats chemically injured eyes.", "contents": "Subconjunctival steroid injections for the treatment of chemically burned eyes. We believe that the utilization of a subconjuctival steroid injection, where indicated, will be of great benefit in the hands of a clinician who treats chemically injured eyes.", "PMID": 453739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10756", "title": "The detrimental effect of aspirin on hyphema rebleed.", "content": "One hundred ninety-five cases of traumatic hyphema admitted to 2 medical centers over an 8 year period were studied in terms of factors effecting the rebleeding rate. It was found that aspirin given for analgesia had a detrimental effect on the rebleeding rate, and that dilating the iris offered some protection against this complication. This report is the second one to show association of higher rebleeding rate and aspirin.", "contents": "The detrimental effect of aspirin on hyphema rebleed. One hundred ninety-five cases of traumatic hyphema admitted to 2 medical centers over an 8 year period were studied in terms of factors effecting the rebleeding rate. It was found that aspirin given for analgesia had a detrimental effect on the rebleeding rate, and that dilating the iris offered some protection against this complication. This report is the second one to show association of higher rebleeding rate and aspirin.", "PMID": 453740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10757", "title": "Acute retinal pigment epitheliitis with macular edema.", "content": "A 34-year-old white woman developed acute loss of central vision in the left eye due to a multifocal inflammatory disturbance of the retinal pigment epithelium in the macula. Subretinal and intraretinal fluorescein leakage were noted in the acute stage. Vision subsequently improved to normal; however, residual spots of depigmentation remained.", "contents": "Acute retinal pigment epitheliitis with macular edema. A 34-year-old white woman developed acute loss of central vision in the left eye due to a multifocal inflammatory disturbance of the retinal pigment epithelium in the macula. Subretinal and intraretinal fluorescein leakage were noted in the acute stage. Vision subsequently improved to normal; however, residual spots of depigmentation remained.", "PMID": 453741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10758", "title": "Retinopathy in ophthalmologically asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobins.", "content": "A study of 70 ophthalmologically asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobinopathy (AS, SS, S Thal) is presented. A significant number of SS and S Thal group patients had visual acuity of less than 20/20. Retinal vein dilation and tortuosity was observed in 54% of S Thal and 83% of SS patients. Early stages of proliferative retinopathy were encountered in 7% of SS and S Thal patients in the study. The importance of routine ocular examination including meticulous binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy with scleral depression in asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobin is stressed.", "contents": "Retinopathy in ophthalmologically asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobins. A study of 70 ophthalmologically asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobinopathy (AS, SS, S Thal) is presented. A significant number of SS and S Thal group patients had visual acuity of less than 20/20. Retinal vein dilation and tortuosity was observed in 54% of S Thal and 83% of SS patients. Early stages of proliferative retinopathy were encountered in 7% of SS and S Thal patients in the study. The importance of routine ocular examination including meticulous binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy with scleral depression in asymptomatic patients with abnormal hemoglobin is stressed.", "PMID": 453742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10759", "title": "Retrobulbar cavernous hemangioma with slowly progressive proptosis.", "content": "Retrobulbar tumors may be difficult to diagnose by conventional ultrasonography. Cavernous hemangioma that developed unusually late in a 45-year-old woman with unilateral proptosis was accurately diagnosed only by computerized tomography (EMI) scan. The patient was successfully operated upon using the Naffziger approach, with good cosmetic result.", "contents": "Retrobulbar cavernous hemangioma with slowly progressive proptosis. Retrobulbar tumors may be difficult to diagnose by conventional ultrasonography. Cavernous hemangioma that developed unusually late in a 45-year-old woman with unilateral proptosis was accurately diagnosed only by computerized tomography (EMI) scan. The patient was successfully operated upon using the Naffziger approach, with good cosmetic result.", "PMID": 453743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10760", "title": "Necrotizing erysipelas of the eyelids.", "content": "A 72-year-old, healthy white woman presented with rapidly advancing necrotizing erysipelas of the upper and lower eyelids. There was no previous history of trauma or skin abrasions. The patient was treated with intravenous methicillin (Staphcillin) for 2 weeks and oral cloxacillin (Tegopen), for 1 week with intensive wound cleaning and debridement. After 3 months of continuous wound care, the patient has healed her wounds by second intention, with a moderate amount of lid contracture. Further surgical correction of the lower lid defect may be necessary.", "contents": "Necrotizing erysipelas of the eyelids. A 72-year-old, healthy white woman presented with rapidly advancing necrotizing erysipelas of the upper and lower eyelids. There was no previous history of trauma or skin abrasions. The patient was treated with intravenous methicillin (Staphcillin) for 2 weeks and oral cloxacillin (Tegopen), for 1 week with intensive wound cleaning and debridement. After 3 months of continuous wound care, the patient has healed her wounds by second intention, with a moderate amount of lid contracture. Further surgical correction of the lower lid defect may be necessary.", "PMID": 453744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10761", "title": "Optic neuritis in a child with herpes zoster.", "content": "A 9-year-old black boy was admitted to the hospital for treatment of herpes zoster involving the trigeminal nerve distribution on the left half of his face. Consulting examination of his eye on the involved side revealed moderate iritis as well as papillitis and diffuse retinitis.", "contents": "Optic neuritis in a child with herpes zoster. A 9-year-old black boy was admitted to the hospital for treatment of herpes zoster involving the trigeminal nerve distribution on the left half of his face. Consulting examination of his eye on the involved side revealed moderate iritis as well as papillitis and diffuse retinitis.", "PMID": 453745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10762", "title": "Dacryolithiasis.", "content": "The mechanism of dacryolith formation is obscure. Divisions of operative vs nonoperative, calcified vs fungal, and amino acid vs nonamino acid are reported but do nothing to elucidate their etiology. Jones' report on nonmycotic casts in northwestern climates, clearly points to more than one mechanism for formation. Fortunately, dacryolith formation is rare when compared to the incidence of lacrimal system inflammation. This case report is presented to emphasize the highly variable circumstances that surround dacryolithiasis.", "contents": "Dacryolithiasis. The mechanism of dacryolith formation is obscure. Divisions of operative vs nonoperative, calcified vs fungal, and amino acid vs nonamino acid are reported but do nothing to elucidate their etiology. Jones' report on nonmycotic casts in northwestern climates, clearly points to more than one mechanism for formation. Fortunately, dacryolith formation is rare when compared to the incidence of lacrimal system inflammation. This case report is presented to emphasize the highly variable circumstances that surround dacryolithiasis.", "PMID": 453747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10763", "title": "Evidence for vasculitis in acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy.", "content": "A case of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy is presented with the unusual feature of the exposure of deep choroidal vessels which filled with dye in the early phase of the fluorescein angiogram in the center of many of the placoid lesions. Visualization of these vessels with surrounding hypofluorescence implies nonperfusion of choriocapillaris presumably due to inflammation, rather than retinal pigment epithelial blockage. The pathology of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy is probably a vasculitis of the choriocapillaries, which causes transient occlusion of these vessels and the initial hypofluorescence in the typical lesions during angiography. In many lesions the ischemia is mild enough to cause only temporary disturbance of visual function with subsequent recovery. Only in the center of some of the lesions is the inflammation severe enough to allow for the findings observed in the case presented and to account for the permanent visual defects found in some patients.", "contents": "Evidence for vasculitis in acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy. A case of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy is presented with the unusual feature of the exposure of deep choroidal vessels which filled with dye in the early phase of the fluorescein angiogram in the center of many of the placoid lesions. Visualization of these vessels with surrounding hypofluorescence implies nonperfusion of choriocapillaris presumably due to inflammation, rather than retinal pigment epithelial blockage. The pathology of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy is probably a vasculitis of the choriocapillaries, which causes transient occlusion of these vessels and the initial hypofluorescence in the typical lesions during angiography. In many lesions the ischemia is mild enough to cause only temporary disturbance of visual function with subsequent recovery. Only in the center of some of the lesions is the inflammation severe enough to allow for the findings observed in the case presented and to account for the permanent visual defects found in some patients.", "PMID": 453751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10764", "title": "Reversible blindness in optic neuritis associated with influenza vaccination.", "content": "A patient is reported in whom bilateral optic neuritis developed following an influenza vaccination. From complete blindness (absence of light perception) in one eye, the patient's vision returned to normal following steroid treatment.", "contents": "Reversible blindness in optic neuritis associated with influenza vaccination. A patient is reported in whom bilateral optic neuritis developed following an influenza vaccination. From complete blindness (absence of light perception) in one eye, the patient's vision returned to normal following steroid treatment.", "PMID": 453752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10765", "title": "Plasma renin activity and aldosterone determination in patients with pseudotumor cerebri.", "content": "A group of 6 women diagnosed as suffering from pseudotumor cerebri had measurement of their plasma renin activity and aldosterone levels at baseline, following plasma volume contraction by furosemide and after dexamethasone therapy. In each instance, the values recorded fell within the normal range and a normal renin-aldosterone axis is postulated.", "contents": "Plasma renin activity and aldosterone determination in patients with pseudotumor cerebri. A group of 6 women diagnosed as suffering from pseudotumor cerebri had measurement of their plasma renin activity and aldosterone levels at baseline, following plasma volume contraction by furosemide and after dexamethasone therapy. In each instance, the values recorded fell within the normal range and a normal renin-aldosterone axis is postulated.", "PMID": 453753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10766", "title": "Unusual presentation of ocular toxocariasis in friends.", "content": "Two cases of presumed ocular toxocariasis are reported in 19-year-old college students. One presented with an acute exudative intraocular inflammation, with marked peripheral eosinophilia, while the other had only minimal inflammatory changes of the disc and vitreous. Both had elevated Toxocara antibody titers by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The simultaneous occurrence of ocular toxocariasis in friends and the early presentation and detection of their ocular lesions make these 2 cases interesting. The presence of positive laboratory data with only minimal clinical disease in one of the cases suggests that ocular toxocariasis may be more common than is usually appreciated.", "contents": "Unusual presentation of ocular toxocariasis in friends. Two cases of presumed ocular toxocariasis are reported in 19-year-old college students. One presented with an acute exudative intraocular inflammation, with marked peripheral eosinophilia, while the other had only minimal inflammatory changes of the disc and vitreous. Both had elevated Toxocara antibody titers by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The simultaneous occurrence of ocular toxocariasis in friends and the early presentation and detection of their ocular lesions make these 2 cases interesting. The presence of positive laboratory data with only minimal clinical disease in one of the cases suggests that ocular toxocariasis may be more common than is usually appreciated.", "PMID": 453754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10767", "title": "The scintillating scotoma without headache.", "content": "Scintillating scotomas are frequently seen without an associated headache and in general should be considered a benign symptom. In this series of 10 patients with an age range from 25 to 72 years, there were 7 female and 3 male patients. With an average follow-up of 1 1/2 years there was no patient who subsequently developed migraine headaches or any persisting neurologic sequelae.", "contents": "The scintillating scotoma without headache. Scintillating scotomas are frequently seen without an associated headache and in general should be considered a benign symptom. In this series of 10 patients with an age range from 25 to 72 years, there were 7 female and 3 male patients. With an average follow-up of 1 1/2 years there was no patient who subsequently developed migraine headaches or any persisting neurologic sequelae.", "PMID": 453755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10768", "title": "Ocular pain secondary to occipital neuritis.", "content": "Sixteen patients whose chief complaint was ocular or periocular pain were diagnosed as having occipital neuritis. All but one had significant relief of pain from one or more injections of an anesthetic in the vicinity of the greater occipital nerve. They were subsequently treated with anti-inflammatory measures. From these cases definitions of significant tenderness and success of treatment were developed. These observations form a basis for a current double-blind study designed to establish a relationship between ocular pain and occipital neuritis.", "contents": "Ocular pain secondary to occipital neuritis. Sixteen patients whose chief complaint was ocular or periocular pain were diagnosed as having occipital neuritis. All but one had significant relief of pain from one or more injections of an anesthetic in the vicinity of the greater occipital nerve. They were subsequently treated with anti-inflammatory measures. From these cases definitions of significant tenderness and success of treatment were developed. These observations form a basis for a current double-blind study designed to establish a relationship between ocular pain and occipital neuritis.", "PMID": 453756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10769", "title": "Intracerebral venous angiomas as a cause of exophthalmos.", "content": "Three cases of an infrequent cerebral vascular malformation, venous angioma, are reported. The first 2 of these cases, with the lesion in a supratentorial location, exhibited exophthalmos as a presenting symptom, together with palpebral or intraobital angiomatous formations, and also impairment of visual function. The first patient was operated upon and the \"venous angioma\" could be confirmed histologically. An angiographic follow-up of the same patient at an 18 year interval was also possible. The diagnostic work-up to be performed in cases of exophthalmos is discussed and the need for angiography is stressed.", "contents": "Intracerebral venous angiomas as a cause of exophthalmos. Three cases of an infrequent cerebral vascular malformation, venous angioma, are reported. The first 2 of these cases, with the lesion in a supratentorial location, exhibited exophthalmos as a presenting symptom, together with palpebral or intraobital angiomatous formations, and also impairment of visual function. The first patient was operated upon and the \"venous angioma\" could be confirmed histologically. An angiographic follow-up of the same patient at an 18 year interval was also possible. The diagnostic work-up to be performed in cases of exophthalmos is discussed and the need for angiography is stressed.", "PMID": 453757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10770", "title": "The binocular confusion in unilateral aphakia.", "content": "The first 4 symptoms of binocular confusion concern primarily daytime vision and the fifth symptom concerns nighttime vision. Even with a conventional contact lens correction, symptoms of binocular confusion occur, especially with high optical aniseikonia for near or far distance. In addition, diplopia occurs in the presence of strabismus. The important result of our research is the fact that unilateral aphakes are severely disturbed by the 5 symptoms of binocular confusion described above. These disturbances can be eliminated completely with an appropriate spectacle-contact lens combination based on echometry and intraocular optics.", "contents": "The binocular confusion in unilateral aphakia. The first 4 symptoms of binocular confusion concern primarily daytime vision and the fifth symptom concerns nighttime vision. Even with a conventional contact lens correction, symptoms of binocular confusion occur, especially with high optical aniseikonia for near or far distance. In addition, diplopia occurs in the presence of strabismus. The important result of our research is the fact that unilateral aphakes are severely disturbed by the 5 symptoms of binocular confusion described above. These disturbances can be eliminated completely with an appropriate spectacle-contact lens combination based on echometry and intraocular optics.", "PMID": 453758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10771", "title": "Uveal melanoma occurring as a fourth primary malignancy: case report.", "content": "A patient developed 4 separate malignancies over a 26 year period, the last of which was a primary choroidal melanoma. She demonstrated that despite previous malignancies, suspicious lesions should never be dismissed as being metastatic in origin, but should be thoroughly evaluated and treated accordingly.", "contents": "Uveal melanoma occurring as a fourth primary malignancy: case report. A patient developed 4 separate malignancies over a 26 year period, the last of which was a primary choroidal melanoma. She demonstrated that despite previous malignancies, suspicious lesions should never be dismissed as being metastatic in origin, but should be thoroughly evaluated and treated accordingly.", "PMID": 453759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10772", "title": "Saccadic velocity measurements in Brown's syndrome.", "content": "Eleven patients with Brown's syndrome (12 eyes) had vertical saccades measured in the primary, adducted, and abducted positions. Upward saccades in all 3 positions were equal and within the normal average velocity range. There was no difference between upward velocities in the eyes with Brown's syndrome when compared with the opposite, normal eye. These findings are consistent with the restrictive etiology of Brown's syndrome and may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis in some patients.", "contents": "Saccadic velocity measurements in Brown's syndrome. Eleven patients with Brown's syndrome (12 eyes) had vertical saccades measured in the primary, adducted, and abducted positions. Upward saccades in all 3 positions were equal and within the normal average velocity range. There was no difference between upward velocities in the eyes with Brown's syndrome when compared with the opposite, normal eye. These findings are consistent with the restrictive etiology of Brown's syndrome and may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis in some patients.", "PMID": 453760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10773", "title": "Atypical drusen in pseudoxanthoma elasticum.", "content": "Forty-three patients with pseudoxanthoma elasticum were evaluated ophthalmologically. The fundus appearance was characterized by angioid streaks and mottling of the retinal pigment epithelium. Rock-like atypical drusen were present in the posterior pole or peripheral retina in 75% of the patients examined and were an integral part of this fundus picture. These drusen changed little with time and were seen in early stages of pseudoxanthoma elasticum. The histopathology of these drusen is unknown.", "contents": "Atypical drusen in pseudoxanthoma elasticum. Forty-three patients with pseudoxanthoma elasticum were evaluated ophthalmologically. The fundus appearance was characterized by angioid streaks and mottling of the retinal pigment epithelium. Rock-like atypical drusen were present in the posterior pole or peripheral retina in 75% of the patients examined and were an integral part of this fundus picture. These drusen changed little with time and were seen in early stages of pseudoxanthoma elasticum. The histopathology of these drusen is unknown.", "PMID": 453761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10774", "title": "Aberrant lacrimal gland and pleomorphic adenoma within the muscle cone.", "content": "Aberrant lacrimal gland tissue within the muscle cone formed a pleomorphic adenoma (benign mixed tumor). Histopathologically, the lesion was identical to similar neoplasms originating from lacrimal and other salivary glands as well as from other serous glands of the body.", "contents": "Aberrant lacrimal gland and pleomorphic adenoma within the muscle cone. Aberrant lacrimal gland tissue within the muscle cone formed a pleomorphic adenoma (benign mixed tumor). Histopathologically, the lesion was identical to similar neoplasms originating from lacrimal and other salivary glands as well as from other serous glands of the body.", "PMID": 453762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10775", "title": "Silicone intubation of the lacrimal system: loop retraction as a complication.", "content": "Inadvertent retraction of silicone tubing after nasolacrimal intubation occurs with some frequency. This problem may be managed in sequential fashion with probing, dacryocystostomy or dacryocystorhinostomy depending on the needs of the patient at the time of occurrence and the original rationale for utilization of the technique.", "contents": "Silicone intubation of the lacrimal system: loop retraction as a complication. Inadvertent retraction of silicone tubing after nasolacrimal intubation occurs with some frequency. This problem may be managed in sequential fashion with probing, dacryocystostomy or dacryocystorhinostomy depending on the needs of the patient at the time of occurrence and the original rationale for utilization of the technique.", "PMID": 453763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10776", "title": "Combined thermotrabeculocanalotomy cataract extraction.", "content": "The results of combined thermotrabeculocanalotomy-cataract extraction are reported on 9 cases, 7 of which are glaucoma cases controlled by medical therapy, one secondary glaucoma following chronic angle-closure, and one secondary glaucoma following trauma. The results were satisfactory both in terms of visual acuity and lessening reliance on medical therapy of the glaucoma following surgery. More importantly, the safety of the procedure is emphasized, which further indicates that the combined procedure should be considered as the procedure of choice when a cataract must be extracted in a patient with glaucoma.", "contents": "Combined thermotrabeculocanalotomy cataract extraction. The results of combined thermotrabeculocanalotomy-cataract extraction are reported on 9 cases, 7 of which are glaucoma cases controlled by medical therapy, one secondary glaucoma following chronic angle-closure, and one secondary glaucoma following trauma. The results were satisfactory both in terms of visual acuity and lessening reliance on medical therapy of the glaucoma following surgery. More importantly, the safety of the procedure is emphasized, which further indicates that the combined procedure should be considered as the procedure of choice when a cataract must be extracted in a patient with glaucoma.", "PMID": 453764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10777", "title": "Antihypertensive effect of prazosin in combination with methyldopa, clonidine, or propranolol.", "content": "Seventeen hypertensive out-patients, more or less unresponsive to previous treatment with antihypertensive drugs, were treated in a cross-over fashion with placebo, prazosin (Pz), methyldopa (MD), Pz + MD, Pz + clonidine (C) and Pz + propranolol. The antihypertensive responses to Pz 2 mg t.i.d. and MD 250 mg t.i.d. were poor, and only modest when the drugs were combined. The combination of Pz with low doses of C was about as effective as Pz + MD, and some patients failed to respond to it. Nor was the combination of Pz + propranolol effective in those cases but the addition of a diuretic produced good responses in all patients. Side effects were few. It is concluded that a combination of central and peripheral sympathetic blockade does not necessarily produce normotension, and that a diuretic added to this combination greatly improves the response.", "contents": "Antihypertensive effect of prazosin in combination with methyldopa, clonidine, or propranolol. Seventeen hypertensive out-patients, more or less unresponsive to previous treatment with antihypertensive drugs, were treated in a cross-over fashion with placebo, prazosin (Pz), methyldopa (MD), Pz + MD, Pz + clonidine (C) and Pz + propranolol. The antihypertensive responses to Pz 2 mg t.i.d. and MD 250 mg t.i.d. were poor, and only modest when the drugs were combined. The combination of Pz with low doses of C was about as effective as Pz + MD, and some patients failed to respond to it. Nor was the combination of Pz + propranolol effective in those cases but the addition of a diuretic produced good responses in all patients. Side effects were few. It is concluded that a combination of central and peripheral sympathetic blockade does not necessarily produce normotension, and that a diuretic added to this combination greatly improves the response.", "PMID": 453775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10778", "title": "Monoamine metabolite levels in cerebrospinal fluid and brain atrophy in lobotomized schizophrenic patients.", "content": "Baseline concentrations of homovanillic acid (HVA), 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) and MHPG in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were determined in 67 lobotomized and 30 non-lobotomized patients with chronic schizophrenia. In addition, in 69 of these patients the degree of brain atrophy was assessed by a pneumoencephalographic (PEG) technique. There were no significant differences in the concentrations of the monoamine metabolites in the CSF between the two patient groups studied despite the fact that the group of lobotomized schizophrenics had significantly more central and cortical brain atrophy than the group of nonlobotomized schizophrenic patients. The amine metabolite levels were also unrelated to the subtype of schizophrenia, duration of illness, or degree of mental incapacitation.", "contents": "Monoamine metabolite levels in cerebrospinal fluid and brain atrophy in lobotomized schizophrenic patients. Baseline concentrations of homovanillic acid (HVA), 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) and MHPG in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were determined in 67 lobotomized and 30 non-lobotomized patients with chronic schizophrenia. In addition, in 69 of these patients the degree of brain atrophy was assessed by a pneumoencephalographic (PEG) technique. There were no significant differences in the concentrations of the monoamine metabolites in the CSF between the two patient groups studied despite the fact that the group of lobotomized schizophrenics had significantly more central and cortical brain atrophy than the group of nonlobotomized schizophrenic patients. The amine metabolite levels were also unrelated to the subtype of schizophrenia, duration of illness, or degree of mental incapacitation.", "PMID": 453776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10779", "title": "Determination of specific airway conductance by a simplified plethysmographic procedure.", "content": "Attention is drawn to the fact, obvious for simple mathematical reasons, that in patients that airway obstruction the values for specific airway conductance (SGaw) calculated directly from the flow-pressure loop registered during quiet breathing with a constant-volume body plethysmography closely approximate the values obtained by the conventional plethysmographic method which includes temporary interruption of the airflow. The simplified procedure may be useful e.g. in serial determinations of SGaw in situations where simultaneous measurement of the lung volume is not considered essential.", "contents": "Determination of specific airway conductance by a simplified plethysmographic procedure. Attention is drawn to the fact, obvious for simple mathematical reasons, that in patients that airway obstruction the values for specific airway conductance (SGaw) calculated directly from the flow-pressure loop registered during quiet breathing with a constant-volume body plethysmography closely approximate the values obtained by the conventional plethysmographic method which includes temporary interruption of the airflow. The simplified procedure may be useful e.g. in serial determinations of SGaw in situations where simultaneous measurement of the lung volume is not considered essential.", "PMID": 453777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10780", "title": "Metoprolol in the treatment of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.", "content": "Twenty one patients with either paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (group A), atrial flutter (group B), or atrial fibrillation (group C) were treated with intravenous metoprolol in the dose range 2--20 mg. Sinus rhythm was restored in 3 out of 6 patients in group A, 3 out of 7 patients in group B and one out of 8 patients in group C. In patients who did not convert to sinus rhythm a remarkable decrease in ventricular rate occurred in 3 patients with atrial flutter and 4 patients with atrial fibrillation. In patients with systolic blood pressure greater than 100 mm Hg but without an acute myocardial infarction the risk of hypotension necessitating treatment was small. Metoprolol appears to be an effective and safe drug in the treatment of supraventricular tachycardia.", "contents": "Metoprolol in the treatment of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. Twenty one patients with either paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (group A), atrial flutter (group B), or atrial fibrillation (group C) were treated with intravenous metoprolol in the dose range 2--20 mg. Sinus rhythm was restored in 3 out of 6 patients in group A, 3 out of 7 patients in group B and one out of 8 patients in group C. In patients who did not convert to sinus rhythm a remarkable decrease in ventricular rate occurred in 3 patients with atrial flutter and 4 patients with atrial fibrillation. In patients with systolic blood pressure greater than 100 mm Hg but without an acute myocardial infarction the risk of hypotension necessitating treatment was small. Metoprolol appears to be an effective and safe drug in the treatment of supraventricular tachycardia.", "PMID": 453778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10781", "title": "Serum immunoglobulin abnormalities in patients with respiratory tract disease.", "content": "Serum immunoglobulin concentrations in patients representing four different categories of respiratory diseases are compared with each other and with an age related group of healthy voluntees. Natural immune stimulation of the respiratory tract results in a significant rise in serum IgA and IgG but not IgM. A comparision with their respective normal serum control values further indicates that the major increase is within the IgA class and, that although significant, the rise in IgG is relatively minor. The preferential serum IgA response observed in the patient population suggests that bronchial associated lymphoid tissue in the diseased lung is an important source of circulating IgA.", "contents": "Serum immunoglobulin abnormalities in patients with respiratory tract disease. Serum immunoglobulin concentrations in patients representing four different categories of respiratory diseases are compared with each other and with an age related group of healthy voluntees. Natural immune stimulation of the respiratory tract results in a significant rise in serum IgA and IgG but not IgM. A comparision with their respective normal serum control values further indicates that the major increase is within the IgA class and, that although significant, the rise in IgG is relatively minor. The preferential serum IgA response observed in the patient population suggests that bronchial associated lymphoid tissue in the diseased lung is an important source of circulating IgA.", "PMID": 453780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10782", "title": "Gonococcal perihepatitis in a surgical ward.", "content": "Within a three-year period six female patients with gonococcal perihepatitis were encountered. In the acute stage they had clinical symptoms indistinguishable from acute cholecystitis. In all six patients the diagnosis was established by positive growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae from cervix specimens. Evidence of previous gonococcal pelvic infection was disclosed in three of the patients. In two patients the gonococcal aetiology of the disease was suggested by papular skin lesion and arthritis. Of the annual mean number of patients admitted to the emergency ward with suspicion of acute cholecystitis within the same three year period, 2.6% presented with gonococcal perihepatitis. As the incidence of gonorrhoea is increasing, complications such as perihepatitis are seen more frequently among young female patients admitted to surgical emergency wards because of acute abdominal pains.", "contents": "Gonococcal perihepatitis in a surgical ward. Within a three-year period six female patients with gonococcal perihepatitis were encountered. In the acute stage they had clinical symptoms indistinguishable from acute cholecystitis. In all six patients the diagnosis was established by positive growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae from cervix specimens. Evidence of previous gonococcal pelvic infection was disclosed in three of the patients. In two patients the gonococcal aetiology of the disease was suggested by papular skin lesion and arthritis. Of the annual mean number of patients admitted to the emergency ward with suspicion of acute cholecystitis within the same three year period, 2.6% presented with gonococcal perihepatitis. As the incidence of gonorrhoea is increasing, complications such as perihepatitis are seen more frequently among young female patients admitted to surgical emergency wards because of acute abdominal pains.", "PMID": 453781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10783", "title": "The effect of intravenously administered glycopyrrolate and orally given analgetic-spasmolytic combination preparation on the contraction of the human gallbladder.", "content": "The effects of intravenously administered glycopyrrolate 0.2 mg (n = 10, Group I) or one orally given analgesic-spasmolytic combination preparation tablet (n = 10, Group II) on the contraction of human gallbladder during control oral cholecystography were compared with patients without any medication (n = 10, Group III). Neither drug had any effect on the gallbladder contraction and, hence, their usefulness in a patient with pain caused by gallstones is questionable. Heart rates and blood pressures were constant in Groups II and III but in Group I glycopyrrolate occasionally caused slight tachycardia and elevated blood pressure. Only in Group I 2 patients had mild side-effects (anticholinergic).", "contents": "The effect of intravenously administered glycopyrrolate and orally given analgetic-spasmolytic combination preparation on the contraction of the human gallbladder. The effects of intravenously administered glycopyrrolate 0.2 mg (n = 10, Group I) or one orally given analgesic-spasmolytic combination preparation tablet (n = 10, Group II) on the contraction of human gallbladder during control oral cholecystography were compared with patients without any medication (n = 10, Group III). Neither drug had any effect on the gallbladder contraction and, hence, their usefulness in a patient with pain caused by gallstones is questionable. Heart rates and blood pressures were constant in Groups II and III but in Group I glycopyrrolate occasionally caused slight tachycardia and elevated blood pressure. Only in Group I 2 patients had mild side-effects (anticholinergic).", "PMID": 453783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10784", "title": "Estradiol receptor assays in normal and neoplastic tissues. A possible diagnostic acid for tumor differentiation.", "content": "Estradiol (E2) binding activity was studied in several normal tissues and neoplasias of humans and experimental animals. Positive E2 binding was seen in 37 percent of breast primary malignancies, 50 percent of breast cancer metastasis to other organs, and 55 percent of breast cancer metastasis to lymph nodes. Two other tumors, renal cell carcinomas and thyroid adenocarcinomas, also had a high percent of E2 binding activity. No difference was evident histologically between the tumors which were positive and those which were negative. Elevated E2 binding activity was seen in normal liver and pancreas of rats and mice as well as in an experimentally induced acinar pancreatic carcinoma of the rats. These preliminary results indicate that the measurement of estradiol receptors should be extended to other neoplasias than breast cancer, and it may give some indication about the evolution and the hormonal controls of the tumors themselves.", "contents": "Estradiol receptor assays in normal and neoplastic tissues. A possible diagnostic acid for tumor differentiation. Estradiol (E2) binding activity was studied in several normal tissues and neoplasias of humans and experimental animals. Positive E2 binding was seen in 37 percent of breast primary malignancies, 50 percent of breast cancer metastasis to other organs, and 55 percent of breast cancer metastasis to lymph nodes. Two other tumors, renal cell carcinomas and thyroid adenocarcinomas, also had a high percent of E2 binding activity. No difference was evident histologically between the tumors which were positive and those which were negative. Elevated E2 binding activity was seen in normal liver and pancreas of rats and mice as well as in an experimentally induced acinar pancreatic carcinoma of the rats. These preliminary results indicate that the measurement of estradiol receptors should be extended to other neoplasias than breast cancer, and it may give some indication about the evolution and the hormonal controls of the tumors themselves.", "PMID": 453784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10785", "title": "Consequences of erythropoietin production by neoplasms.", "content": "Neoplastic lesions of the kidney and certain other organs are sometimes associated with increased erythropoietin and/or erythrocytosis in man and experimental animals. It seems likely that measurement of erythropoietin, although not specific, could be helpful in detecting renal neoplasms and in following the progress of treated tumors of the kidney and certain other organs. Increasing the sensitivity of the assay of erythropoietin in the exhypoxic mouse, a functional assay, or in an immunologic assay of specific protein concentration might aid in the early detection of yet another hormone marker of neoplasia.", "contents": "Consequences of erythropoietin production by neoplasms. Neoplastic lesions of the kidney and certain other organs are sometimes associated with increased erythropoietin and/or erythrocytosis in man and experimental animals. It seems likely that measurement of erythropoietin, although not specific, could be helpful in detecting renal neoplasms and in following the progress of treated tumors of the kidney and certain other organs. Increasing the sensitivity of the assay of erythropoietin in the exhypoxic mouse, a functional assay, or in an immunologic assay of specific protein concentration might aid in the early detection of yet another hormone marker of neoplasia.", "PMID": 453785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10786", "title": "Plasma changes in endotoxin and anaphylactic shock (ATP, ADP and Creatine phosphorus).", "content": "Decisive patterns have been demonstrated in plasma adenosine 5' triphosphate (ATP) levels in both endotoxin and anaphylactic shock which correlate with periods of low platelet counts, low arterial pressures and abnormal electrocardiograms. When these irregularities were occurring, the plasma ATP level was low; when improvement occurred, the plasma ATP level rose. Plasma ATP levels appear to be an index to the metabolic state of the animal. The plasma creatine phosphate (CP) level showed a tendency to decrease when the ATP level dropped in anaphylactic shock, although the CP level did not recover to the same extent as the ATP level. In endotoxin shock, the plasma CP level increased on an average of six-fold. It is proposed that this rise resulted from either CP mobilization from tissues, for the purpose of replenishing the energy deficient myocardial muscle, or possible leakage from damaged cells. Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) plasma values were measured in both anaphylactic and endotoxin shock. High initial ADP values were prone towards a more severe anaphylactic reaction and a shorter survival time in the endotoxin shock experiments.", "contents": "Plasma changes in endotoxin and anaphylactic shock (ATP, ADP and Creatine phosphorus). Decisive patterns have been demonstrated in plasma adenosine 5' triphosphate (ATP) levels in both endotoxin and anaphylactic shock which correlate with periods of low platelet counts, low arterial pressures and abnormal electrocardiograms. When these irregularities were occurring, the plasma ATP level was low; when improvement occurred, the plasma ATP level rose. Plasma ATP levels appear to be an index to the metabolic state of the animal. The plasma creatine phosphate (CP) level showed a tendency to decrease when the ATP level dropped in anaphylactic shock, although the CP level did not recover to the same extent as the ATP level. In endotoxin shock, the plasma CP level increased on an average of six-fold. It is proposed that this rise resulted from either CP mobilization from tissues, for the purpose of replenishing the energy deficient myocardial muscle, or possible leakage from damaged cells. Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) plasma values were measured in both anaphylactic and endotoxin shock. High initial ADP values were prone towards a more severe anaphylactic reaction and a shorter survival time in the endotoxin shock experiments.", "PMID": 453786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10787", "title": "[Use of antibiotics in selecting a nystatin producer].", "content": "The lethal and mutagenic effect of streptomycin and nystatin on Act. noursei, strain 408 producing nystatin was studied. The survival of the spores of strain 408 on the medium with streptomycin decreased with an increase in the antibiotic concentration. Streptomycin had a selective effect on the nystatin-producing organism decreasing the frequency of morphologically changed and low active variants and revealing highly active and antibiotic stable variants. The survival of the spores of strain 408 on the medium with nystatin (20,000 units/ml) amounted to 35 per cent. Nystatin had an inhibitory effect on the organism producing it which was evident from delayed growth and significant modification variation of the colonies, as well as from a marked increase in the number of the variants characterized by low antibiotic production.", "contents": "[Use of antibiotics in selecting a nystatin producer]. The lethal and mutagenic effect of streptomycin and nystatin on Act. noursei, strain 408 producing nystatin was studied. The survival of the spores of strain 408 on the medium with streptomycin decreased with an increase in the antibiotic concentration. Streptomycin had a selective effect on the nystatin-producing organism decreasing the frequency of morphologically changed and low active variants and revealing highly active and antibiotic stable variants. The survival of the spores of strain 408 on the medium with nystatin (20,000 units/ml) amounted to 35 per cent. Nystatin had an inhibitory effect on the organism producing it which was evident from delayed growth and significant modification variation of the colonies, as well as from a marked increase in the number of the variants characterized by low antibiotic production.", "PMID": 453792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10788", "title": "[Action of polyene antibiotics on actinomycetes with a varying lipid makeup].", "content": "The effect of polyenic antibiotics, such as nystatin, levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin on 93 representatives of various species of the ray fungi was studied. It was shown that resistance of the actinomycetes to the polyens was connected with the absence or insufficient content of sterols (0.001--0.008 per cent in the dry mycelium). On addition of cholesterol to the nutrient media (100 microgram/ml) it was included into the membranes of some cultures and their sensitivity increased 2--60 times. Resistance of Actinomyces sp. LIA 0775 grown on the media with fats differing in their composition decreased 2--4 times. In these cases the culture lipids were characterized by lower content of phospholipids (35--45 per cent from the total lipids as compared to 70--80 per cent when grown on the control medium without fats) and significantly increased content of unsaturated fatty acids (3--4 times).", "contents": "[Action of polyene antibiotics on actinomycetes with a varying lipid makeup]. The effect of polyenic antibiotics, such as nystatin, levorin, amphotericin B and mycoheptin on 93 representatives of various species of the ray fungi was studied. It was shown that resistance of the actinomycetes to the polyens was connected with the absence or insufficient content of sterols (0.001--0.008 per cent in the dry mycelium). On addition of cholesterol to the nutrient media (100 microgram/ml) it was included into the membranes of some cultures and their sensitivity increased 2--60 times. Resistance of Actinomyces sp. LIA 0775 grown on the media with fats differing in their composition decreased 2--4 times. In these cases the culture lipids were characterized by lower content of phospholipids (35--45 per cent from the total lipids as compared to 70--80 per cent when grown on the control medium without fats) and significantly increased content of unsaturated fatty acids (3--4 times).", "PMID": 453793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10789", "title": "[Solubility of the sodium salt of novobiocin in ethyl alcohol mixtures with other solvents].", "content": "Solubility of sodium novobiocin in binary mixtures of ethyl alcohol with ehtyl acetate, methylene chloride, diethyl ether, carbon tetrachloride or n-heptane was studied. Deviation in the sodium novobiocin solubility from the additivity was observed depending on the nature of the second component of the solvent mixture.", "contents": "[Solubility of the sodium salt of novobiocin in ethyl alcohol mixtures with other solvents]. Solubility of sodium novobiocin in binary mixtures of ethyl alcohol with ehtyl acetate, methylene chloride, diethyl ether, carbon tetrachloride or n-heptane was studied. Deviation in the sodium novobiocin solubility from the additivity was observed depending on the nature of the second component of the solvent mixture.", "PMID": 453794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10790", "title": "Leydig cell tumors of the testis.", "content": "Leydig cell tumors represent approximately one to three percent of all testicular tumors. Whereas in experimental animals predisposing conditions include administration of chemical carcinogens, hormones and heavy metals, environmental or endogenous factors in man are presently unrecognized. Leydig cell tumors do not show preferential lateralization or tendency for bilaterality. The symptoms are related to the local effects or to hormones released into the systemic circulation. Laboratory findings are variable, depending on endocrinological activity. Typical tumors rarely exceed five cm in diameter, are brown on cross section and are composed of polyhedral cells with acidophilic, granular cytoplasm. Ultrastructurally, neoplastic Leydig cells resemble normal Leydig cells. Surgical ablation is curative for benign Leydig cell tumors.", "contents": "Leydig cell tumors of the testis. Leydig cell tumors represent approximately one to three percent of all testicular tumors. Whereas in experimental animals predisposing conditions include administration of chemical carcinogens, hormones and heavy metals, environmental or endogenous factors in man are presently unrecognized. Leydig cell tumors do not show preferential lateralization or tendency for bilaterality. The symptoms are related to the local effects or to hormones released into the systemic circulation. Laboratory findings are variable, depending on endocrinological activity. Typical tumors rarely exceed five cm in diameter, are brown on cross section and are composed of polyhedral cells with acidophilic, granular cytoplasm. Ultrastructurally, neoplastic Leydig cells resemble normal Leydig cells. Surgical ablation is curative for benign Leydig cell tumors.", "PMID": 453789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10791", "title": "The pathological classification of human mammary carcinoma: past, present and future.", "content": "The current classification of mammary carcinoma combines pathological and clinical information in order to define prognostically significant categories. Basic structural features are the anatomic unit of origin, either duct or terminal duct-lobule complex, and the presence or absence of invasion. Approximately 90 percent of carcinomas appear to arise from ducts. About one-fifth of invasive duct carcinomas have a better than average prognosis and distinct light microscopic structural patterns. Future study of biochemical markers may permit further refinement of the existing classification of breast carcinoma and lead to the identification of new prognostically significant categories in the heterogeneous group currently referred to as \"ordinary\" infiltrating duct carcinoma. However, a conservative approach should be adopted toward altering or abandoning the existing classification of breast carcinoma on the basis of immunocytochemical studies until there is an adequate opportunity to determine which, if any, markers are truly clinically relevant.", "contents": "The pathological classification of human mammary carcinoma: past, present and future. The current classification of mammary carcinoma combines pathological and clinical information in order to define prognostically significant categories. Basic structural features are the anatomic unit of origin, either duct or terminal duct-lobule complex, and the presence or absence of invasion. Approximately 90 percent of carcinomas appear to arise from ducts. About one-fifth of invasive duct carcinomas have a better than average prognosis and distinct light microscopic structural patterns. Future study of biochemical markers may permit further refinement of the existing classification of breast carcinoma and lead to the identification of new prognostically significant categories in the heterogeneous group currently referred to as \"ordinary\" infiltrating duct carcinoma. However, a conservative approach should be adopted toward altering or abandoning the existing classification of breast carcinoma on the basis of immunocytochemical studies until there is an adequate opportunity to determine which, if any, markers are truly clinically relevant.", "PMID": 453788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10792", "title": "[Inhibiting action of egg albumin on the growth of coagulase-negative species of staphylococci].", "content": "The effect of various concentrations of native egg albumin on growth of three staphyloccal species was studied. It was found that addition of 25 per cent of the albumin to the medium prepared from dry nutrient agar inhibited growth of Staph. epidermidis and Staph. saprophyticus, had no effect on growth of Staph. aureus and promoted formation of a pigment by it. A mechanism of the albumin inhibitory effect is suggested. It is proposed that the albumin medium be used for differentiation of Staph. aureus and the coagulase-negative species of staphylococci.", "contents": "[Inhibiting action of egg albumin on the growth of coagulase-negative species of staphylococci]. The effect of various concentrations of native egg albumin on growth of three staphyloccal species was studied. It was found that addition of 25 per cent of the albumin to the medium prepared from dry nutrient agar inhibited growth of Staph. epidermidis and Staph. saprophyticus, had no effect on growth of Staph. aureus and promoted formation of a pigment by it. A mechanism of the albumin inhibitory effect is suggested. It is proposed that the albumin medium be used for differentiation of Staph. aureus and the coagulase-negative species of staphylococci.", "PMID": 453795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10793", "title": "Evaluation of three methods of protein analysis for serum and heart homogenates.", "content": "The Biuret, Ultraviolet and Lowry techniques for the determination of total protein content were compared in 31 samples of patient serum and in 30 rat heart tissue homogenates. Statistically significant differences were found to exist between values obtained with each method. Human serum and heart homogenate protein were both lowest when assayed by the Lowry procedure, while serum and homogenate values were highest with the Ultraviolet and Biuret method, respectively. Possible sources of these discrepancies are discussed. Although the Biuret method may not be as sensitive as the other two methods, it proved to be the most reproducible technique for determining total protein concentration in the particular types of samples used in this study.", "contents": "Evaluation of three methods of protein analysis for serum and heart homogenates. The Biuret, Ultraviolet and Lowry techniques for the determination of total protein content were compared in 31 samples of patient serum and in 30 rat heart tissue homogenates. Statistically significant differences were found to exist between values obtained with each method. Human serum and heart homogenate protein were both lowest when assayed by the Lowry procedure, while serum and homogenate values were highest with the Ultraviolet and Biuret method, respectively. Possible sources of these discrepancies are discussed. Although the Biuret method may not be as sensitive as the other two methods, it proved to be the most reproducible technique for determining total protein concentration in the particular types of samples used in this study.", "PMID": 453787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10794", "title": "[Structure of salmonellal transmissive resistance to antibiotics].", "content": "The structure of transmissive resistance to antibiotics was studied in 1260 Salmonella strains of 57 serotypes and R-plasmid resistance was found in the representatives of 13 (31.6 per cent) serotypes. The transmissive resistance correlated with multiple resistance to 4--10 antibiotics. The rate of occurrence of the transmissive R-plasmids was markedly higher in the bipathogenic serotypes. The structure of the R-plasmid resistance was most pronounced and diverse in S. typhimurium. It was usually revealed simultaneously with registration of the hospital infection. The plasmid with the determinants of resistance to erythromycin and benzylpenicillin was found only in this serotype. The nature of resistance and spectrum of transmissive resistance to antibiotics in Salmonella may serve as an additional epidemiological feature of the strains.", "contents": "[Structure of salmonellal transmissive resistance to antibiotics]. The structure of transmissive resistance to antibiotics was studied in 1260 Salmonella strains of 57 serotypes and R-plasmid resistance was found in the representatives of 13 (31.6 per cent) serotypes. The transmissive resistance correlated with multiple resistance to 4--10 antibiotics. The rate of occurrence of the transmissive R-plasmids was markedly higher in the bipathogenic serotypes. The structure of the R-plasmid resistance was most pronounced and diverse in S. typhimurium. It was usually revealed simultaneously with registration of the hospital infection. The plasmid with the determinants of resistance to erythromycin and benzylpenicillin was found only in this serotype. The nature of resistance and spectrum of transmissive resistance to antibiotics in Salmonella may serve as an additional epidemiological feature of the strains.", "PMID": 453796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10795", "title": "[Comparative characteristics of the antibioticograms and biological properties of the staphylococci isolated from patients with various eye diseases].", "content": "A total of 1488 examinations of the conjunctival content of patients with various ophthalmic diseases were performed within 5 years (1973--1977). 989 (66.4 per cent) cultures were isolated. Staphylococci were isolated in 79.2 per cent of the patients irrespective of the diagnosis. The plasma-coagulating strains were isolated in 43.6 per cent of the patients with acute conjunctivitis. The plasma-negative staphylococci were more frequent in chronic conjunctivitis (83.5 per cent). A total of 188 strains were studied according to 18 tests. Determination of the antibiotic sensitivity showed that the number of the benzylpenicillin and tetracycline resistant strains among the plasma-coagulating staphylococci was higher in the patients with acute ophthalmic diseases. In chronic conjunctivitis no differences in the antibiotic sensitivity of the plasma-coagulating and plasma-negative strains were noted. Similar antibiotic sensitivity of all plasma-negative staphylococci irrespective of the diagnosis was found. High biological activity of the plasma-negative staphylococci was shown: 74.1 per cent of the isolates possessed phosphatase, 59.8 per cent possessed protease and 88.4 per cent a lysozyme-like enzyme. The strains isolated in chronic conjunctivitis produced protease more frequently that those isolated in acute ophthalmic diseases.", "contents": "[Comparative characteristics of the antibioticograms and biological properties of the staphylococci isolated from patients with various eye diseases]. A total of 1488 examinations of the conjunctival content of patients with various ophthalmic diseases were performed within 5 years (1973--1977). 989 (66.4 per cent) cultures were isolated. Staphylococci were isolated in 79.2 per cent of the patients irrespective of the diagnosis. The plasma-coagulating strains were isolated in 43.6 per cent of the patients with acute conjunctivitis. The plasma-negative staphylococci were more frequent in chronic conjunctivitis (83.5 per cent). A total of 188 strains were studied according to 18 tests. Determination of the antibiotic sensitivity showed that the number of the benzylpenicillin and tetracycline resistant strains among the plasma-coagulating staphylococci was higher in the patients with acute ophthalmic diseases. In chronic conjunctivitis no differences in the antibiotic sensitivity of the plasma-coagulating and plasma-negative strains were noted. Similar antibiotic sensitivity of all plasma-negative staphylococci irrespective of the diagnosis was found. High biological activity of the plasma-negative staphylococci was shown: 74.1 per cent of the isolates possessed phosphatase, 59.8 per cent possessed protease and 88.4 per cent a lysozyme-like enzyme. The strains isolated in chronic conjunctivitis produced protease more frequently that those isolated in acute ophthalmic diseases.", "PMID": 453797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10796", "title": "Is breast cancer a result of endocrine targeting? (How women differ from rats or mice).", "content": "Parabiosis of female rats with castrate males or oophorectomized females produces carcinoma of the breast in the majority of intact females. When unilateral nephrectomy of each partner is added to the procedure, the incidence is 100 percent. Radioimmunoassays for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, estradiol and progesterone have been performed on the sera of these rats. The pathogenesis of the breast carcinomas is discussed in the light of these results. An attempt to weigh various factors thought to be involved in causing human and experimental rat cancer of the breast suggests significant differences of a quantitative nature.", "contents": "Is breast cancer a result of endocrine targeting? (How women differ from rats or mice). Parabiosis of female rats with castrate males or oophorectomized females produces carcinoma of the breast in the majority of intact females. When unilateral nephrectomy of each partner is added to the procedure, the incidence is 100 percent. Radioimmunoassays for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, estradiol and progesterone have been performed on the sera of these rats. The pathogenesis of the breast carcinomas is discussed in the light of these results. An attempt to weigh various factors thought to be involved in causing human and experimental rat cancer of the breast suggests significant differences of a quantitative nature.", "PMID": 453791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10797", "title": "Ultrastructure of endocrine neoplasms.", "content": "The most common ultrastructural features of endocrine tumors are reviewed. The diagnostic applications of the electron microscope are illustrated by citation of case histories.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of endocrine neoplasms. The most common ultrastructural features of endocrine tumors are reviewed. The diagnostic applications of the electron microscope are illustrated by citation of case histories.", "PMID": 453790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10798", "title": "Effects of maternal administration of endoxan, vitamin A and vitamin B12 on the development of the fetal spinal cord of the albino mouse.", "content": "The effects of maternal administration of endoxan, vitamin A and vitamine B12 were studied on the cervical fetal spinal cord of the albino mouse. Endoxan caused dorsal and ventral herniation of the spinal cord, chromatolysis and degeneration of the neuroblasts together with neuroglial proliferation. Vitamin A and B12 resulted in an increase in the surface areas of both grey and white matter and an increase in the volume of the neuroblasts. The possible mechanisms concerned were discussed.", "contents": "Effects of maternal administration of endoxan, vitamin A and vitamin B12 on the development of the fetal spinal cord of the albino mouse. The effects of maternal administration of endoxan, vitamin A and vitamine B12 were studied on the cervical fetal spinal cord of the albino mouse. Endoxan caused dorsal and ventral herniation of the spinal cord, chromatolysis and degeneration of the neuroblasts together with neuroglial proliferation. Vitamin A and B12 resulted in an increase in the surface areas of both grey and white matter and an increase in the volume of the neuroblasts. The possible mechanisms concerned were discussed.", "PMID": 453812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10799", "title": "Nervous reactivity disturbances in patients with late post-traumatic encephalic syndromes.", "content": "A polygraphic study performed on 184 patients with late post-traumatic encephalic syndromes has shown marked nervous reactivity disturbances. The disturbances, estimated by testing for the electrographic components of the orienting reflex elicited by a repetitive auditory stimulus and for their habituation, were expressed by alterations in the intensity, resistance to habituation and sequence of habituation of the somatic, autonomic and EEG components. The character and severity of these disturbances depended on the mechanism behind the syndrome-inducing cranio-cerebral trauma, site of the impact and clinical picture of the syndrome.", "contents": "Nervous reactivity disturbances in patients with late post-traumatic encephalic syndromes. A polygraphic study performed on 184 patients with late post-traumatic encephalic syndromes has shown marked nervous reactivity disturbances. The disturbances, estimated by testing for the electrographic components of the orienting reflex elicited by a repetitive auditory stimulus and for their habituation, were expressed by alterations in the intensity, resistance to habituation and sequence of habituation of the somatic, autonomic and EEG components. The character and severity of these disturbances depended on the mechanism behind the syndrome-inducing cranio-cerebral trauma, site of the impact and clinical picture of the syndrome.", "PMID": 453814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10800", "title": "Territrems, tremorgenic mycotoxins of Aspergillus terreus.", "content": "The tremorgenic mycotoxins isolated from Aspergillus terreus were given the trivial names territrem A and B instead of their previous designations of C1 and C2 respectively. High-resolution mass spectral data suggested the molecular formula of territrem A to be C28H30O9 and that of territrem B,C29H34O9. They were partially characterized by ultraviolet, infrared, proton magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy. The spectroscopic evidence indicated that their chemical structures were very similar. The procedures of purification were also revised for the complete separation of these two chemically related compounds.", "contents": "Territrems, tremorgenic mycotoxins of Aspergillus terreus. The tremorgenic mycotoxins isolated from Aspergillus terreus were given the trivial names territrem A and B instead of their previous designations of C1 and C2 respectively. High-resolution mass spectral data suggested the molecular formula of territrem A to be C28H30O9 and that of territrem B,C29H34O9. They were partially characterized by ultraviolet, infrared, proton magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy. The spectroscopic evidence indicated that their chemical structures were very similar. The procedures of purification were also revised for the complete separation of these two chemically related compounds.", "PMID": 453815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10801", "title": "Differentiation of aflatoxins from territrems.", "content": "Three methods were adopted for differentiation of aflatoxins B1 and B2 from territrems A and B. They were as follows. (i) Then-layer chromatography coupled with chemical confirmation. A significant decrease in the Rf value of trifluoroacetic acid-treated aflatoxin B1 developed in chloroform-acetone (85:15, vol/vol) was satisfactory in differentiating this toxin from the other three. (ii) High-pressure liquid chromatography monitored synchronously at two wavelengths, 365 and 335 nm. The ratio derived from this double-wavelengh detection could serve as an indicator of the presence of each toxin. (iii) Velasco's flurotoxin meter method, which is used for the determination of aflatoxins within the range of 0 to 50 ng/ml, was not significantly affected by territrems even when they were present in quantities at the microgram-per-milliliter level.", "contents": "Differentiation of aflatoxins from territrems. Three methods were adopted for differentiation of aflatoxins B1 and B2 from territrems A and B. They were as follows. (i) Then-layer chromatography coupled with chemical confirmation. A significant decrease in the Rf value of trifluoroacetic acid-treated aflatoxin B1 developed in chloroform-acetone (85:15, vol/vol) was satisfactory in differentiating this toxin from the other three. (ii) High-pressure liquid chromatography monitored synchronously at two wavelengths, 365 and 335 nm. The ratio derived from this double-wavelengh detection could serve as an indicator of the presence of each toxin. (iii) Velasco's flurotoxin meter method, which is used for the determination of aflatoxins within the range of 0 to 50 ng/ml, was not significantly affected by territrems even when they were present in quantities at the microgram-per-milliliter level.", "PMID": 453816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10802", "title": "Spoilage of vacuum-packaged dark, firm, dry meat at chill temperatures.", "content": "The flora of vacuum-packaged dark, firm, dry meat included thred organisms not usually found on vacuum-packaged meat, Yersinia enterocolitica, Enterobacter liquefaciens, and Alteromonas putrefaciens. Y. enterocolitica did not affect the meat quality. Production of spoilage odors by E. liquefaciens could be prevented by addition of glucose or citrate to the meat. Greening of meat could be prevented by addition of glucose or citrate to the meat. Greening of meat by A. putrefaciens was not prevented by addition of glucose, as the organism degraded cysteine with the release of H2S even when glucose was present. To prevent greening, growth of A. putrefaciens must be inhibited by reducing the meat pH to less than 6.0.", "contents": "Spoilage of vacuum-packaged dark, firm, dry meat at chill temperatures. The flora of vacuum-packaged dark, firm, dry meat included thred organisms not usually found on vacuum-packaged meat, Yersinia enterocolitica, Enterobacter liquefaciens, and Alteromonas putrefaciens. Y. enterocolitica did not affect the meat quality. Production of spoilage odors by E. liquefaciens could be prevented by addition of glucose or citrate to the meat. Greening of meat could be prevented by addition of glucose or citrate to the meat. Greening of meat by A. putrefaciens was not prevented by addition of glucose, as the organism degraded cysteine with the release of H2S even when glucose was present. To prevent greening, growth of A. putrefaciens must be inhibited by reducing the meat pH to less than 6.0.", "PMID": 453817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10803", "title": "Production of mycophenolic acid by Penicillium roqueforti strains.", "content": "Sixteen strains of Penicillium roqueforti Thom, isolated from blue-molded cheeses, were studied. In vitro, all of these strains produced mycophenolic acid, some on the order of 0.8 to 4 mg/g od dry culture. The greatest yields were obtained after 10 days of incubation of cultures at 15 degrees C. However, under some experimental conditions, mycophenolic acid was not alone responsible for the toxicity of culture extracts to chicken embryos.", "contents": "Production of mycophenolic acid by Penicillium roqueforti strains. Sixteen strains of Penicillium roqueforti Thom, isolated from blue-molded cheeses, were studied. In vitro, all of these strains produced mycophenolic acid, some on the order of 0.8 to 4 mg/g od dry culture. The greatest yields were obtained after 10 days of incubation of cultures at 15 degrees C. However, under some experimental conditions, mycophenolic acid was not alone responsible for the toxicity of culture extracts to chicken embryos.", "PMID": 453818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10804", "title": "Bactericidal effect of cysteine exposed to atmospheric oxygen.", "content": "Peptostreptococcus anaerobius VPI 4330-1 was exposed to atmospheric oxygen in a dilution bland (0.2% gelatin, salts, resazurin) solution. The organisms were rapidly killed when the solution contained cysteine. The organisms were effectively protected by catalase and horseradish peroxidase as well as by the metal ion-chelating agents 8-hydroxyquinoline and 2,2'-bipyridine. Superoxide dismutase increased the rate of killing of the organisms, whereas singlet oxygen quenchers and scavengers of hydroxyl free radicals did not protect the organisms from the toxic effect of cysteine. Hydrogen peroxide was formed when cysteine was exposed to oxygen in the dilution blank solution, and the reaction was inhibited by metal ion-chelating agents. The organisms were rapidly killed by 20 microM hydrogen peroxide in anaerobic dilution blank solution. The toxic effect of hydrogen peroxide in anaerobic dilution blank solution. The toxic effect of hydrogen peroxide was completely abolished by catalase and metal ion-chelating agents. These results indicated that hydrogen peroxide was formed in the dilution blank solution in a metal ion-catalyzed autoxidation of cysteine and that hydrogen peroxide was toxic to P. anaerobius VPI 4330-1 in a reaction also catalyzed by metal ions.", "contents": "Bactericidal effect of cysteine exposed to atmospheric oxygen. Peptostreptococcus anaerobius VPI 4330-1 was exposed to atmospheric oxygen in a dilution bland (0.2% gelatin, salts, resazurin) solution. The organisms were rapidly killed when the solution contained cysteine. The organisms were effectively protected by catalase and horseradish peroxidase as well as by the metal ion-chelating agents 8-hydroxyquinoline and 2,2'-bipyridine. Superoxide dismutase increased the rate of killing of the organisms, whereas singlet oxygen quenchers and scavengers of hydroxyl free radicals did not protect the organisms from the toxic effect of cysteine. Hydrogen peroxide was formed when cysteine was exposed to oxygen in the dilution blank solution, and the reaction was inhibited by metal ion-chelating agents. The organisms were rapidly killed by 20 microM hydrogen peroxide in anaerobic dilution blank solution. The toxic effect of hydrogen peroxide in anaerobic dilution blank solution. The toxic effect of hydrogen peroxide was completely abolished by catalase and metal ion-chelating agents. These results indicated that hydrogen peroxide was formed in the dilution blank solution in a metal ion-catalyzed autoxidation of cysteine and that hydrogen peroxide was toxic to P. anaerobius VPI 4330-1 in a reaction also catalyzed by metal ions.", "PMID": 453819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10805", "title": "Spoilage association of chicken skin.", "content": "The bacterial succession on the skin of broiler chicken carcasses stored at 2 degrees C was traced, and the ability of representative isolates to produce off-odors was determined by using sterile leg and breast muscle sections. Off-odors were identified by olfactory and chemical means. The inability of peptone-iron agar to detect sulfide-producing strains was noted.", "contents": "Spoilage association of chicken skin. The bacterial succession on the skin of broiler chicken carcasses stored at 2 degrees C was traced, and the ability of representative isolates to produce off-odors was determined by using sterile leg and breast muscle sections. Off-odors were identified by olfactory and chemical means. The inability of peptone-iron agar to detect sulfide-producing strains was noted.", "PMID": 453820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10806", "title": "Emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1: specificity of hydrocarbon substrate.", "content": "The purified extracellular emulsifying factor produced by Arthrobacter RAG-1 (EF-RAG) emulsified light petroleum oil, diesel oil, and a variety of crude oils and gas oils. Although kerosine and gasoline were emulsified poorly by EF-RAG, they were converted into good substrates for emulsification by addition of aromatic compounds, such as 2-methylnaphthalene. Neither aromatic nor aliphatic fractions of crude oil were emulsified by EF-RAG; however, mixtures containing both fractions were emulsified. Pure aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons were emulsified poorly by EF-RAG. Binary mixtures containing an aliphatic and an aromatic hydrocarbon, however, were excellent substrates for EF-RAG-induced emulsification. Of a variety of alkylcyclohexane and alkylbenzene derivatives tested, only hexyl- or heptylbenzene and octyl- or decylcyclohexane were effectively emulsified by EF-RAG. These data indicate that for EF-RAG to induce emulsification of hydrocarbons in water, the hydrocarbon substrate must contain both aliphatic and cyclic components. With binary mixtures of methylnaphthalene and hexadecane, maximum emulsion was obtained with 25% hexadecane.", "contents": "Emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1: specificity of hydrocarbon substrate. The purified extracellular emulsifying factor produced by Arthrobacter RAG-1 (EF-RAG) emulsified light petroleum oil, diesel oil, and a variety of crude oils and gas oils. Although kerosine and gasoline were emulsified poorly by EF-RAG, they were converted into good substrates for emulsification by addition of aromatic compounds, such as 2-methylnaphthalene. Neither aromatic nor aliphatic fractions of crude oil were emulsified by EF-RAG; however, mixtures containing both fractions were emulsified. Pure aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons were emulsified poorly by EF-RAG. Binary mixtures containing an aliphatic and an aromatic hydrocarbon, however, were excellent substrates for EF-RAG-induced emulsification. Of a variety of alkylcyclohexane and alkylbenzene derivatives tested, only hexyl- or heptylbenzene and octyl- or decylcyclohexane were effectively emulsified by EF-RAG. These data indicate that for EF-RAG to induce emulsification of hydrocarbons in water, the hydrocarbon substrate must contain both aliphatic and cyclic components. With binary mixtures of methylnaphthalene and hexadecane, maximum emulsion was obtained with 25% hexadecane.", "PMID": 453821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10807", "title": "Emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1: chemical and physical properties.", "content": "The extracellular emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1 was deproteinized by hot phenol treatment and purified by fractional precipitation with (NH(4))(2)SO(4). The active fraction, precipitating between 30 and 35% saturation [EF-RAG(UET) WA], appeared to be homogeneous by immunodiffusion and sedimentation analysis. EF-RAG(UET) WA had an intrinsic viscosity of 750 cm(3)/g, a sedimentation constant of 6.06S, a diffusion constant of 5.25 x 10(-8) cm(2) s(-1), and a partial molar volume of 0.712 cm(3) g(-1). From these data a weight average molecular weight of 9.76 x 10(5) and a viscosity average molecular weight of 9.88 x 10(5) were calculated. EF-RAG(UET)WA contained 46.7% C, 7.01% H, and 6.06% N. Titration of the nonreducing polymer gave a single inflection point (pK' = 3.05), corresponding to 1.5 mumol of carboxyl groups per mg. Direct estimation of O-ester and hexose content of the highly acidic polymer yielded 0.65 and 0.29 mumol/mg, respectively. Mild alkaline hydrolysis released fatty acids with an average molecular weight of about 231. Strong acid hydrolysis of EF-RAG(UET)WA yielded d-glucose (minor), d-galactosamine (major), and an unidentified amino uronic acid (major).", "contents": "Emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1: chemical and physical properties. The extracellular emulsifier of Arthrobacter RAG-1 was deproteinized by hot phenol treatment and purified by fractional precipitation with (NH(4))(2)SO(4). The active fraction, precipitating between 30 and 35% saturation [EF-RAG(UET) WA], appeared to be homogeneous by immunodiffusion and sedimentation analysis. EF-RAG(UET) WA had an intrinsic viscosity of 750 cm(3)/g, a sedimentation constant of 6.06S, a diffusion constant of 5.25 x 10(-8) cm(2) s(-1), and a partial molar volume of 0.712 cm(3) g(-1). From these data a weight average molecular weight of 9.76 x 10(5) and a viscosity average molecular weight of 9.88 x 10(5) were calculated. EF-RAG(UET)WA contained 46.7% C, 7.01% H, and 6.06% N. Titration of the nonreducing polymer gave a single inflection point (pK' = 3.05), corresponding to 1.5 mumol of carboxyl groups per mg. Direct estimation of O-ester and hexose content of the highly acidic polymer yielded 0.65 and 0.29 mumol/mg, respectively. Mild alkaline hydrolysis released fatty acids with an average molecular weight of about 231. Strong acid hydrolysis of EF-RAG(UET)WA yielded d-glucose (minor), d-galactosamine (major), and an unidentified amino uronic acid (major).", "PMID": 453822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10808", "title": "Metabolism of 3-chloro-, 4-chloro-, and 3,5-dichlorobenzoate by a pseudomonad.", "content": "Pseudomonas sp. WR912 was isolated by continuous enrichment in three steps with 3-chloro-, 4-chloro-, and finally 3,5-dichlorobenzoate as sole source of carbon and energy. The doubling times of the pure culture with these growth substrates were 2.6, 3.3, and 5.2 h, respectively. Stoichiometric amounts of chloride were eliminated during growth. Oxygen uptake rates with chlorinated benzoates revealed low stereospecificity of the initial benzoate 1,2-dioxygenation. Dihydrodi-hydroxybenzoate dehydrogenase, catechol 1,2-dixoygenase, and muconate cycloisomerase activities were found in cell-free extracts. The ortho cleavage activity for catechols appeared to involve induction of isoenzymes with different stereospecificity towards chlorocatechols. A catabolic pathway for chlorocatechols was proposed on the basis of similarity to chlorophenoxyacetate catabolism, and cometabolism of 3,5-dimethylbenzoate by chlorobenzoate-induced cells yielded 2,5-dihydro-2,4-dimethyl-5-oxo-furan-2-acetic acid.", "contents": "Metabolism of 3-chloro-, 4-chloro-, and 3,5-dichlorobenzoate by a pseudomonad. Pseudomonas sp. WR912 was isolated by continuous enrichment in three steps with 3-chloro-, 4-chloro-, and finally 3,5-dichlorobenzoate as sole source of carbon and energy. The doubling times of the pure culture with these growth substrates were 2.6, 3.3, and 5.2 h, respectively. Stoichiometric amounts of chloride were eliminated during growth. Oxygen uptake rates with chlorinated benzoates revealed low stereospecificity of the initial benzoate 1,2-dioxygenation. Dihydrodi-hydroxybenzoate dehydrogenase, catechol 1,2-dixoygenase, and muconate cycloisomerase activities were found in cell-free extracts. The ortho cleavage activity for catechols appeared to involve induction of isoenzymes with different stereospecificity towards chlorocatechols. A catabolic pathway for chlorocatechols was proposed on the basis of similarity to chlorophenoxyacetate catabolism, and cometabolism of 3,5-dimethylbenzoate by chlorobenzoate-induced cells yielded 2,5-dihydro-2,4-dimethyl-5-oxo-furan-2-acetic acid.", "PMID": 453823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10809", "title": "Metabolism of (+/-)-N-(n-propyl) amphetamine by Cunninghamella echinulata.", "content": "(+/-)-N-(n-propyl) amphetamine (I), a secondary amine, was readily metabolized by Cumminghamella echinulata. The products included known C- and N-oxygenated mammalian metabolites as well as N-acetylamphetamine and were identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.", "contents": "Metabolism of (+/-)-N-(n-propyl) amphetamine by Cunninghamella echinulata. (+/-)-N-(n-propyl) amphetamine (I), a secondary amine, was readily metabolized by Cumminghamella echinulata. The products included known C- and N-oxygenated mammalian metabolites as well as N-acetylamphetamine and were identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.", "PMID": 453824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10810", "title": "Occurrence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Dutch mussels.", "content": "A study was carried out on the occurrence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Dutch mussels originating from the East Schelde Estuary. In a totol of 79 10-g tissue samples, 3 (3.8%) were found to contain V. parahaemolyticus. In a second survey, 6 out of 23 bags of mussels (26%) contained one or more strains of V. parahaemolyticus in 5-g tissue samples. The many limitations of current methodology used in such surveys are stressed. Positive samples can be missed because viable cells may die during refrigerated transport. Surviving cells also may not be detected because they have been sublethally stressed. In addition, the unreliability of the identification criterion of no growth in 10% NaCl was demonstrated.", "contents": "Occurrence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Dutch mussels. A study was carried out on the occurrence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Dutch mussels originating from the East Schelde Estuary. In a totol of 79 10-g tissue samples, 3 (3.8%) were found to contain V. parahaemolyticus. In a second survey, 6 out of 23 bags of mussels (26%) contained one or more strains of V. parahaemolyticus in 5-g tissue samples. The many limitations of current methodology used in such surveys are stressed. Positive samples can be missed because viable cells may die during refrigerated transport. Surviving cells also may not be detected because they have been sublethally stressed. In addition, the unreliability of the identification criterion of no growth in 10% NaCl was demonstrated.", "PMID": 453825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10811", "title": "Thermal stress of Pseudomonas fluorescens in complex media.", "content": "Pseudomonas fluorescens (P7) cells were stressed by incubation at 43 degrees C for 2 h. The stress induced a 9-h lag in replication after the return of the temperature of the culture to 25 degrees C. Stressed cells demonstrated a sensitivity to diluents and plating media during the recovery period. Data from utilization of selective inhibitors suggested that ribonucleic acid and protein, but not deoxyribonucleic acid, syntheses were required for recovery by the cells. The cells lost uracil- and leucine-labeled material as a result of the stress, further suggesting that ribonucleic acid and protein damage had occurred. Membrane damage was indicated by sensitivity to sodium dodecyl sulfate near the end of the lag period. Membrane damage was also suggested by the failure of cells to incorporate labeled material from the recovery medium. The lesions induced in this foodlike system are compared with those previously reported for a minimal media model system (Gray et al., Appl. Microbiol. 26:78-85, 1973; Gray et al., Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 33:1074-1078, 1977).", "contents": "Thermal stress of Pseudomonas fluorescens in complex media. Pseudomonas fluorescens (P7) cells were stressed by incubation at 43 degrees C for 2 h. The stress induced a 9-h lag in replication after the return of the temperature of the culture to 25 degrees C. Stressed cells demonstrated a sensitivity to diluents and plating media during the recovery period. Data from utilization of selective inhibitors suggested that ribonucleic acid and protein, but not deoxyribonucleic acid, syntheses were required for recovery by the cells. The cells lost uracil- and leucine-labeled material as a result of the stress, further suggesting that ribonucleic acid and protein damage had occurred. Membrane damage was indicated by sensitivity to sodium dodecyl sulfate near the end of the lag period. Membrane damage was also suggested by the failure of cells to incorporate labeled material from the recovery medium. The lesions induced in this foodlike system are compared with those previously reported for a minimal media model system (Gray et al., Appl. Microbiol. 26:78-85, 1973; Gray et al., Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 33:1074-1078, 1977).", "PMID": 453826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10812", "title": "Fourteen-year survival of Pseudomonas cepacia in a salts solution preserved with benzalkonium chloride.", "content": "A strain of Pseudomonas cepacia that survived for 14 years (1963 to 1977) as a contaminant in an inorganic salt solution which contained commercial 0.05% benzalkonium chloride (CBC) as an antimicrobial preservative, was compared to a recent clinical isolate of P. cepacia. Ammonium acetate was present in the concentrated stock CBC solution, and served as a carbon and nitrogen source for growth when carried over into the salts solution with the CBC. The isolate's resistance to pure benzalkonium chloride was increased step-wise to a concentration of 16%. Plate counts showed 4 x 10(3) colony-forming units per ml in the salts solution. Comparison of growth rates, mouse virulence, antibiotics resistance spectra, and substrate requirements disclosed no differences between the contaminant and a recently isolated clinical strain of P. cepacia. The results indicate that it is critical that pharmaceutical solutions containing benzalkonium chloride as an antimicrobial preservative be formulated without extraneous carbon and nitrogen sources or be preserved with additional antimicrobial agents.", "contents": "Fourteen-year survival of Pseudomonas cepacia in a salts solution preserved with benzalkonium chloride. A strain of Pseudomonas cepacia that survived for 14 years (1963 to 1977) as a contaminant in an inorganic salt solution which contained commercial 0.05% benzalkonium chloride (CBC) as an antimicrobial preservative, was compared to a recent clinical isolate of P. cepacia. Ammonium acetate was present in the concentrated stock CBC solution, and served as a carbon and nitrogen source for growth when carried over into the salts solution with the CBC. The isolate's resistance to pure benzalkonium chloride was increased step-wise to a concentration of 16%. Plate counts showed 4 x 10(3) colony-forming units per ml in the salts solution. Comparison of growth rates, mouse virulence, antibiotics resistance spectra, and substrate requirements disclosed no differences between the contaminant and a recently isolated clinical strain of P. cepacia. The results indicate that it is critical that pharmaceutical solutions containing benzalkonium chloride as an antimicrobial preservative be formulated without extraneous carbon and nitrogen sources or be preserved with additional antimicrobial agents.", "PMID": 453827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10813", "title": "Mechanism of lethal action of 2,450-MHz radiation on microorganisms.", "content": "Various bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, and bacteriophages were exposed to microwaves of 2,450 +/- 20 MHz in the presence and in the absence of water. It was found that microorganisms were inactivated only when in the presence of water and that dry or lyophilized organisms were not affected even by extended exposures. The data presented here prove that microorganisms are killed by \"thermal effect\" only and that, most likely, there is no \"nonthermal effect\"; cell constituents other than water do not absorb sufficient energy to kill microbial cells.", "contents": "Mechanism of lethal action of 2,450-MHz radiation on microorganisms. Various bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, and bacteriophages were exposed to microwaves of 2,450 +/- 20 MHz in the presence and in the absence of water. It was found that microorganisms were inactivated only when in the presence of water and that dry or lyophilized organisms were not affected even by extended exposures. The data presented here prove that microorganisms are killed by \"thermal effect\" only and that, most likely, there is no \"nonthermal effect\"; cell constituents other than water do not absorb sufficient energy to kill microbial cells.", "PMID": 453828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10814", "title": "Mycological survey of selected health foods.", "content": "A survey was conducted to compare the total viable fungal content and the number of different mold species encountered in 10 types of health foods labeled organically grown and in the same foods without such a label. The foods were wheat flour, corn meal, brown rice, figs, split peas, pinto beans, soybeans, walnuts, pecans, and peanuts. Results showed no consistent difference in either the total viable fungal content or the number of different mold species encountered between the labeled and unlabeled foods. Two genera of yeasts (Rhodotorula and Saccharomyces) and 22 gener of molds, including more than 65 species, were encountered. The mold flora was dominated by Aspergillus glaucus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus candidus, Penicillium cyclopium, and Penicillium viridicatum. Isolates of the genera Alternaria, Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Helminthosporium also occurred in certain foods. At least 10 toxicogenic species of Aspergillus and Penicillium were encountered. A total of 87 cultures of these species, all isolated from health foods, were screened for laboratory production of their respective toxins. Toxin production potential of these 87 cultures did not differ from that of cultures of the same species isolated from conventional foods.", "contents": "Mycological survey of selected health foods. A survey was conducted to compare the total viable fungal content and the number of different mold species encountered in 10 types of health foods labeled organically grown and in the same foods without such a label. The foods were wheat flour, corn meal, brown rice, figs, split peas, pinto beans, soybeans, walnuts, pecans, and peanuts. Results showed no consistent difference in either the total viable fungal content or the number of different mold species encountered between the labeled and unlabeled foods. Two genera of yeasts (Rhodotorula and Saccharomyces) and 22 gener of molds, including more than 65 species, were encountered. The mold flora was dominated by Aspergillus glaucus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus candidus, Penicillium cyclopium, and Penicillium viridicatum. Isolates of the genera Alternaria, Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Helminthosporium also occurred in certain foods. At least 10 toxicogenic species of Aspergillus and Penicillium were encountered. A total of 87 cultures of these species, all isolated from health foods, were screened for laboratory production of their respective toxins. Toxin production potential of these 87 cultures did not differ from that of cultures of the same species isolated from conventional foods.", "PMID": 453829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10815", "title": "Nonlogarithmic death rate calculations for Byssochlamys fulva and other microorganisms.", "content": "Survivor curves for heat-resistant ascospores of Byssochlamys fulva exposed to lethal heat were nonlogarithmic. At lower heating temperatures, the log survivor curves were characterized by a shoulder plus an accelerating death rate; with increased temperatures, the rate approached logarithmic death. The formula (log No -- log N)a = kt + C was adapted to linearize these data. No and N are the initial and surviving numbers of organisms at the time t. The death rate is given by k, and C is a constant for a set of data. The a value is derived from the least-squares slope of a plot of log (log No -- log N) against log time and is used to linearize the thermal death rate curves. This formula permitted calculations of parameters analogous to those for logarithmic death (D and z). Use of formula is illustrated for selected nonlinear microbial death rate curves from the literature.", "contents": "Nonlogarithmic death rate calculations for Byssochlamys fulva and other microorganisms. Survivor curves for heat-resistant ascospores of Byssochlamys fulva exposed to lethal heat were nonlogarithmic. At lower heating temperatures, the log survivor curves were characterized by a shoulder plus an accelerating death rate; with increased temperatures, the rate approached logarithmic death. The formula (log No -- log N)a = kt + C was adapted to linearize these data. No and N are the initial and surviving numbers of organisms at the time t. The death rate is given by k, and C is a constant for a set of data. The a value is derived from the least-squares slope of a plot of log (log No -- log N) against log time and is used to linearize the thermal death rate curves. This formula permitted calculations of parameters analogous to those for logarithmic death (D and z). Use of formula is illustrated for selected nonlinear microbial death rate curves from the literature.", "PMID": 453830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10816", "title": "Ochratoxin A-induced iron deficiency anemia.", "content": "Ochratoxin A at 8 micrograms per g of diet, but not at lower doses, fed to chickens from 1 day to 3 weeks of age resulted in significantly (P less than 0.05) decreased packed blood cell volume and hemoglobin concentration without altering the number of circulating erythrocytes. Serum iron and percentage of transferrin saturation were lowered at 4 and 8 micrograms/g. Therefore, anemia was characteristic of severe ochratoxicosis of young chickens, and the anemia was categorized as a hypochromic-microcytic anemia of the iron deficiency type. These data indicate that ochratoxin A by itself does not cause hemorrhagic anemia syndrome of chickens and that an anemia caused by a nutritional deficiency can be elicited by a mycotoxin.", "contents": "Ochratoxin A-induced iron deficiency anemia. Ochratoxin A at 8 micrograms per g of diet, but not at lower doses, fed to chickens from 1 day to 3 weeks of age resulted in significantly (P less than 0.05) decreased packed blood cell volume and hemoglobin concentration without altering the number of circulating erythrocytes. Serum iron and percentage of transferrin saturation were lowered at 4 and 8 micrograms/g. Therefore, anemia was characteristic of severe ochratoxicosis of young chickens, and the anemia was categorized as a hypochromic-microcytic anemia of the iron deficiency type. These data indicate that ochratoxin A by itself does not cause hemorrhagic anemia syndrome of chickens and that an anemia caused by a nutritional deficiency can be elicited by a mycotoxin.", "PMID": 453831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10817", "title": "Phosphate and soil binding: factors limiting bacterial degradation of ionic phosphorus-containing pesticide metabolites.", "content": "Soils that had a high binding capacity for inorganic orthophosphate (Pi) had reduced capacities to bind ionic alkyl phosphorus compounds. Only ionic methylphosphonate (MPn) and ionic phenylphosphonate exhibited moderate binding. Pseudomonas testosteroni used either MPn or Pi as a sole phosphorus source and exhibited diauxic utilization of MPn and Pi. The utilization of MPn was suppressed in the presence of Pi. This suppression was abolished by a Pi-binding soil. The soil did not have a significant effect on the maximum rate of degradation of either MPn or the poorly bound ionic O-isopropyl methylphosphonate, whereas the amount of MPn (but not the amount of O-isopropyl methylphosphonate) metabolized was reduced in the presence of soil", "contents": "Phosphate and soil binding: factors limiting bacterial degradation of ionic phosphorus-containing pesticide metabolites. Soils that had a high binding capacity for inorganic orthophosphate (Pi) had reduced capacities to bind ionic alkyl phosphorus compounds. Only ionic methylphosphonate (MPn) and ionic phenylphosphonate exhibited moderate binding. Pseudomonas testosteroni used either MPn or Pi as a sole phosphorus source and exhibited diauxic utilization of MPn and Pi. The utilization of MPn was suppressed in the presence of Pi. This suppression was abolished by a Pi-binding soil. The soil did not have a significant effect on the maximum rate of degradation of either MPn or the poorly bound ionic O-isopropyl methylphosphonate, whereas the amount of MPn (but not the amount of O-isopropyl methylphosphonate) metabolized was reduced in the presence of soil", "PMID": 453832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10818", "title": "Comparative study on the antimicrobial effect of 0.5% chlorhexidine gluconate and 70% isopropyl alcohol on the normal flora of hands.", "content": "A gloved-hand wash method was used to compare the antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine gluconate alcohol emollient hand wash (HIBISTAT) with that of 70% isopropyl alcohol on the normal flora of the hands (81 subjects) under conditions designed to mimic use by surgeons. Results of the immediate postwash effects on the bacterial counts for all 3 tests days showed that chlorhexidine significantly reduced the normal flora of the hands. When compared with the base line bacterial counts, there was 85, 96, and 98% reduction with chlorhexidine treatment and 84, 93, and 90% reduction with alcohol treatment on days 1,2, and 5, respectively. The difference between chlorhexidine and alcohol treatments was not statistically significant on days 1 and 2, but was significant on day 5 (P less than 0.01). For delayed postwash bacterial counts (for persistent antimicrobial effects), the overall log means were 4.9943 and 5.4684 for chlorhexidine and alcohol treatments, respectively. The difference between the two treatments was significant (P less than 0.01). After the chlorhexidien treatment, there was no significant growth of bacteria over a period of 6 h when compared with the base line bacterial counts.", "contents": "Comparative study on the antimicrobial effect of 0.5% chlorhexidine gluconate and 70% isopropyl alcohol on the normal flora of hands. A gloved-hand wash method was used to compare the antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine gluconate alcohol emollient hand wash (HIBISTAT) with that of 70% isopropyl alcohol on the normal flora of the hands (81 subjects) under conditions designed to mimic use by surgeons. Results of the immediate postwash effects on the bacterial counts for all 3 tests days showed that chlorhexidine significantly reduced the normal flora of the hands. When compared with the base line bacterial counts, there was 85, 96, and 98% reduction with chlorhexidine treatment and 84, 93, and 90% reduction with alcohol treatment on days 1,2, and 5, respectively. The difference between chlorhexidine and alcohol treatments was not statistically significant on days 1 and 2, but was significant on day 5 (P less than 0.01). For delayed postwash bacterial counts (for persistent antimicrobial effects), the overall log means were 4.9943 and 5.4684 for chlorhexidine and alcohol treatments, respectively. The difference between the two treatments was significant (P less than 0.01). After the chlorhexidien treatment, there was no significant growth of bacteria over a period of 6 h when compared with the base line bacterial counts.", "PMID": 453833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10819", "title": "Catabolism of protocatechuate by Bacillus macerans.", "content": "An aerobic endospore-forming bacterium, tentatively identified as a strain (JJ-lb) of Bacillus macerans, was isolated by enrichment on 4-hydroxybenzoate (4HBA), using as an inoculum soil taken from a 50 degrees C Iadho hot spring. Enzymatic analyses of cells grown on succinate and 4HBA indicated that strain JJ-1b degrades 4HBA by way of the novel protocatechuate (PCA) 2,3-dioxygenase pathway. Purification of the PCA 2,3-dioxygenase by affinity chromatography allowed the first observation of the immediate ring fission product of PCA, namely, 5-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde (CHMS; labmda max at pH 7.0 = 348 nm). An affinity column fraction was obtained that decarboxylated CHMS to 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde (HMS; lambdamax at pH 7.0 = 375 nm). Thus, conversion of PCA to HMS is accomplished in two steps, 2,3-fission of the PCA ring followed by enzymatic decarboxylation of the ring fission product, forming HMS.", "contents": "Catabolism of protocatechuate by Bacillus macerans. An aerobic endospore-forming bacterium, tentatively identified as a strain (JJ-lb) of Bacillus macerans, was isolated by enrichment on 4-hydroxybenzoate (4HBA), using as an inoculum soil taken from a 50 degrees C Iadho hot spring. Enzymatic analyses of cells grown on succinate and 4HBA indicated that strain JJ-1b degrades 4HBA by way of the novel protocatechuate (PCA) 2,3-dioxygenase pathway. Purification of the PCA 2,3-dioxygenase by affinity chromatography allowed the first observation of the immediate ring fission product of PCA, namely, 5-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde (CHMS; labmda max at pH 7.0 = 348 nm). An affinity column fraction was obtained that decarboxylated CHMS to 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde (HMS; lambdamax at pH 7.0 = 375 nm). Thus, conversion of PCA to HMS is accomplished in two steps, 2,3-fission of the PCA ring followed by enzymatic decarboxylation of the ring fission product, forming HMS.", "PMID": 453834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10820", "title": "Utilization of chlorobenzoates by microbial populations in sewage.", "content": "Microorganisms in sewage decomposed 3.4-dichlorobenzoate and m-, p-, and o-chlorobenzoates. As the substrate disappeared, populations capable of growing on these compounds proliferated. Neither 2,4-dichlorobenzoate nor 2,3,6-trichlorobenzoate was destroyed by the sewage microflora. The addition of glucose or benzoate and m-chlorobenzoate to the sewage did not promote degradation of 2,4-di- or 2,3,6-trichlorobenzoates. The populations responsible for the biodegradation of the chlorinated compounds were initially less than 100 cells/ml. During the metabolism of m-chlorobenzoate, 5-chlorosalicylate and 4-chlorocatechol were formed.", "contents": "Utilization of chlorobenzoates by microbial populations in sewage. Microorganisms in sewage decomposed 3.4-dichlorobenzoate and m-, p-, and o-chlorobenzoates. As the substrate disappeared, populations capable of growing on these compounds proliferated. Neither 2,4-dichlorobenzoate nor 2,3,6-trichlorobenzoate was destroyed by the sewage microflora. The addition of glucose or benzoate and m-chlorobenzoate to the sewage did not promote degradation of 2,4-di- or 2,3,6-trichlorobenzoates. The populations responsible for the biodegradation of the chlorinated compounds were initially less than 100 cells/ml. During the metabolism of m-chlorobenzoate, 5-chlorosalicylate and 4-chlorocatechol were formed.", "PMID": 453835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10821", "title": "Salmonella species isolated from animal feed in Iraq.", "content": "Of 700 animal feed samples, 32 (4.5%) harbored Salmonella. The highest percentage of contamination was found in sheep feed and local protein. A total of 17 Salmonella serotypes were identified. The most frequent serotypes were Salmonella meleagridis. S. bornum, S. montevideo, and S. drypool. S. bornum was isolated for the first time in Iraq and from both local feed and its ingredients. The common somatic group found was that of Salmonella group C; then came groups E, G, B, and D. Three serotypes (S. enteritidis, S. california, and S. muenchen) seemed to form a link of infection among feed, food, patients, and carriers.", "contents": "Salmonella species isolated from animal feed in Iraq. Of 700 animal feed samples, 32 (4.5%) harbored Salmonella. The highest percentage of contamination was found in sheep feed and local protein. A total of 17 Salmonella serotypes were identified. The most frequent serotypes were Salmonella meleagridis. S. bornum, S. montevideo, and S. drypool. S. bornum was isolated for the first time in Iraq and from both local feed and its ingredients. The common somatic group found was that of Salmonella group C; then came groups E, G, B, and D. Three serotypes (S. enteritidis, S. california, and S. muenchen) seemed to form a link of infection among feed, food, patients, and carriers.", "PMID": 453836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10822", "title": "Production of 3-acetoxyscirpene-4,15-diol from anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol) by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum.", "content": "Growing cells of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum (ATCC 7808) formed 3-acetoxyscirpene-4,15-diol from anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol) by way of the intermediates triacetoxyscirpene, 3,4-diacetoxyscirpene-15-ol and 3,15-diacetoxyscirpene-4-ol. The new 3-acetoxy analog was found to be less active than anguidine and the other monoacetoxy derivatives when tested against a series of fungal strains and against HeLa cells in vitro.", "contents": "Production of 3-acetoxyscirpene-4,15-diol from anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol) by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum. Growing cells of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum (ATCC 7808) formed 3-acetoxyscirpene-4,15-diol from anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol) by way of the intermediates triacetoxyscirpene, 3,4-diacetoxyscirpene-15-ol and 3,15-diacetoxyscirpene-4-ol. The new 3-acetoxy analog was found to be less active than anguidine and the other monoacetoxy derivatives when tested against a series of fungal strains and against HeLa cells in vitro.", "PMID": 453837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10823", "title": "Comparative study of the aerobic, heterotrophic bacterial flora of Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay.", "content": "A comparative study of the bacterial flora of the water of Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay was undertaken to assess similarities and differences between the autochthonous flora of the two geographical sites and to test the hypothesis that, given similarities in environmental parameters, similar bacterial populations will be found, despite extreme geographic distance between locations. A total of 195 aerobic, heterotrophic bacterial strains isolated from Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay water were examined for 115 biochemical, cultural, morphological, nutritional, and physiological characters. The data were analyzed by the methods of numerical taxonomy. From sorted similarity matrices, 77% of the isolates could be grouped into 30 phena and presumptively identified as Acinetobacter-Moraxella, Caulobacter, coryneforms, Pseudomonas, and Vibrio spp. Vibrio and Acinetobacter species were found to be common in the estuarine waters of Chesapeake Bay, whereas Acinetobacter-Moraxella and Caulobacter predominated in Tokyo Bay waters, at the sites sampled in the study.", "contents": "Comparative study of the aerobic, heterotrophic bacterial flora of Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay. A comparative study of the bacterial flora of the water of Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay was undertaken to assess similarities and differences between the autochthonous flora of the two geographical sites and to test the hypothesis that, given similarities in environmental parameters, similar bacterial populations will be found, despite extreme geographic distance between locations. A total of 195 aerobic, heterotrophic bacterial strains isolated from Chesapeake Bay and Tokyo Bay water were examined for 115 biochemical, cultural, morphological, nutritional, and physiological characters. The data were analyzed by the methods of numerical taxonomy. From sorted similarity matrices, 77% of the isolates could be grouped into 30 phena and presumptively identified as Acinetobacter-Moraxella, Caulobacter, coryneforms, Pseudomonas, and Vibrio spp. Vibrio and Acinetobacter species were found to be common in the estuarine waters of Chesapeake Bay, whereas Acinetobacter-Moraxella and Caulobacter predominated in Tokyo Bay waters, at the sites sampled in the study.", "PMID": 453838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10824", "title": "Secondary selective enrichment of salmonellae from naturally contaminated specimens by using a selective motility system.", "content": "A selective motility medium was used as a secondary selective enrichment medium to examine specimens naturally contaminated with salmonellae. The medium, incubated at 37 degrees C, was inoculated from either selenite brilliant green sulfa enrichment broth or M\u00fcller-Kauffman tetrathionate broth, both of which had been incubated at 42 degrees C. The use of the selective motility medium resulted in an increase in the number of positive specimens from 65 and 74% to 80 and 82%, when inoculated at 24 and 48 h, respectively, from tetrathionate broth. Tetrathionate broth, when used singly, was significantly better than selenite brilliant green sulfa broth, which detected 55% of positive specimens at both 24 and 48 h. The use of the selective motility medium of Harper and Shortridge (J. Hyg. 67: 181--186, 1969) for the further examination of specimens culturally negative on primary selective enrichment is advocated.", "contents": "Secondary selective enrichment of salmonellae from naturally contaminated specimens by using a selective motility system. A selective motility medium was used as a secondary selective enrichment medium to examine specimens naturally contaminated with salmonellae. The medium, incubated at 37 degrees C, was inoculated from either selenite brilliant green sulfa enrichment broth or M\u00fcller-Kauffman tetrathionate broth, both of which had been incubated at 42 degrees C. The use of the selective motility medium resulted in an increase in the number of positive specimens from 65 and 74% to 80 and 82%, when inoculated at 24 and 48 h, respectively, from tetrathionate broth. Tetrathionate broth, when used singly, was significantly better than selenite brilliant green sulfa broth, which detected 55% of positive specimens at both 24 and 48 h. The use of the selective motility medium of Harper and Shortridge (J. Hyg. 67: 181--186, 1969) for the further examination of specimens culturally negative on primary selective enrichment is advocated.", "PMID": 453839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10825", "title": "Lesions of swine lymph nodes as a diagnostic test to determine mycobacterial infection.", "content": "Decisions as to the disposition of swine carcasses with lesions attributable to a mycobacterial infection are based upon a lesion criterion which is used as a diagnostic test by federal meat inspectors. Using this criterion, a federal meat inspector classified 58 of 100 pigs as \"passed for cooking\" and the other 42 pigs passed. Of the 58 pigs passed for cooking and the 42 pigs passed, mycobacterial isolations were made from the lymph nodes of 33 and 15 of the animals, respectively. The lesion criterion as a diagnostic test has the following attributes: 70% sensitive; 53% specific; 23% index of performance; 57% positive accuracy; and 67% negative accuracy.", "contents": "Lesions of swine lymph nodes as a diagnostic test to determine mycobacterial infection. Decisions as to the disposition of swine carcasses with lesions attributable to a mycobacterial infection are based upon a lesion criterion which is used as a diagnostic test by federal meat inspectors. Using this criterion, a federal meat inspector classified 58 of 100 pigs as \"passed for cooking\" and the other 42 pigs passed. Of the 58 pigs passed for cooking and the 42 pigs passed, mycobacterial isolations were made from the lymph nodes of 33 and 15 of the animals, respectively. The lesion criterion as a diagnostic test has the following attributes: 70% sensitive; 53% specific; 23% index of performance; 57% positive accuracy; and 67% negative accuracy.", "PMID": 453840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10826", "title": "Evidence by electron micrographs for a high incidence of bacteriophage particles in the waters of Yaquina Bay, oregon: ecological and taxonomical implications.", "content": "A variety of viral particles, the majority of them clearly identifiable as bacteriophages, were found in the seawater of Yaquina Bay, Oregon. These phages were obtained as free particles from the seawater without employing specific hosts for enrichments or further purification in the laboratory. A variety of electron micrographs showing different morphologies of phages as well as phage-bacterium interactions found in the seawater are presented. In the area where the bay received organic enrichment from seafood processing plants, a minimum of 10(4) phage particles per ml was estimated. Since the technique used was designed to concentrate particles 0.2 micrometer in diameter or larger it is assumed that the actual number of phage particles is higher than 10(4) particles per ml. The implications of the presence of such phage concentrations in bays and estuaries with a certain level of eutrophication are of obvious importance in considering the microbial ecology of these environments.", "contents": "Evidence by electron micrographs for a high incidence of bacteriophage particles in the waters of Yaquina Bay, oregon: ecological and taxonomical implications. A variety of viral particles, the majority of them clearly identifiable as bacteriophages, were found in the seawater of Yaquina Bay, Oregon. These phages were obtained as free particles from the seawater without employing specific hosts for enrichments or further purification in the laboratory. A variety of electron micrographs showing different morphologies of phages as well as phage-bacterium interactions found in the seawater are presented. In the area where the bay received organic enrichment from seafood processing plants, a minimum of 10(4) phage particles per ml was estimated. Since the technique used was designed to concentrate particles 0.2 micrometer in diameter or larger it is assumed that the actual number of phage particles is higher than 10(4) particles per ml. The implications of the presence of such phage concentrations in bays and estuaries with a certain level of eutrophication are of obvious importance in considering the microbial ecology of these environments.", "PMID": 453841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10827", "title": "Extraction of glucose isomerase from Streptomyces flavogriseus.", "content": "Cationic detergent (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide or cetylpyridinium chloride) treatment extracted almost the same amount of glucose isomerase from cells of Streptomyces flavogriseus as mechanical disruption (sonic oscillation or abrasive grinding). The specific activity of the enzyme extracted with cationic detergents was approximately 20% higher than that liberated by mechanical disruption.", "contents": "Extraction of glucose isomerase from Streptomyces flavogriseus. Cationic detergent (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide or cetylpyridinium chloride) treatment extracted almost the same amount of glucose isomerase from cells of Streptomyces flavogriseus as mechanical disruption (sonic oscillation or abrasive grinding). The specific activity of the enzyme extracted with cationic detergents was approximately 20% higher than that liberated by mechanical disruption.", "PMID": 453842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10828", "title": "The actinic cheilitis of hereditary polymorphic light eruption.", "content": "Sixty-four North American Indians with hereditary polymorphic light eruption (HPLE), or a family history of HPLE, had chronic, recurrent, exudative, and exfoliative cheilitis. Fifty-two had the cheilitis by the age of 10 years. Microscopically, the epithelium was either thickened, or thinned and covered by a thick crust. The dermis had a dense infiltration of inflammatory cells, mostly lymphocytes and plasma cells. The condition was not premalignant. The HPLE has to be differentiated from the chronic actinic cheilitis caused by long exposure to sunlight with out any element of hypersensitivity. The latter is potentially premalignant. Chronic recurrent actinic cheilitis associated with hereditary polymorphic light eruption appears to be a specific characteristic of photosensitivity occurring in American Indians. Plasma cell infiltration is not specific for either type of cheilitis.", "contents": "The actinic cheilitis of hereditary polymorphic light eruption. Sixty-four North American Indians with hereditary polymorphic light eruption (HPLE), or a family history of HPLE, had chronic, recurrent, exudative, and exfoliative cheilitis. Fifty-two had the cheilitis by the age of 10 years. Microscopically, the epithelium was either thickened, or thinned and covered by a thick crust. The dermis had a dense infiltration of inflammatory cells, mostly lymphocytes and plasma cells. The condition was not premalignant. The HPLE has to be differentiated from the chronic actinic cheilitis caused by long exposure to sunlight with out any element of hypersensitivity. The latter is potentially premalignant. Chronic recurrent actinic cheilitis associated with hereditary polymorphic light eruption appears to be a specific characteristic of photosensitivity occurring in American Indians. Plasma cell infiltration is not specific for either type of cheilitis.", "PMID": 453870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10829", "title": "Metastases in dermatological patients with squamous cell carcinoma.", "content": "Two hundred eleven patients in whom squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin had been diagnosed between 1950 and 1959 were followed up from Jan 1, 1976, to establish the incidence of metastases. A systemic study was carried out through follow-up examinations and tracing through population registers. We found 3.3% metastases in 153 patients with skin SCC and 11% metastases in 55 patients with labial SCC. Three patients with genital SCC were free of metastases. These results and the available literature on patients with SCC of osteomyelitic foci and scars from burns or x-ray treatment indicate that sharp distinctions must be made among three groups of SCC; mucocutaneous, primary cutaneous, and cutaneous SCC secondary to inflammatory and degenerative processes. The incidence of metastases in the three groups is approximately 11%, 3%, and 10% to 30%, respectively. Percentages found are important to dermatology clinics because skin SCC should be considered a malignant tumor with a higher incidence of metastases than previously assumed.", "contents": "Metastases in dermatological patients with squamous cell carcinoma. Two hundred eleven patients in whom squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin had been diagnosed between 1950 and 1959 were followed up from Jan 1, 1976, to establish the incidence of metastases. A systemic study was carried out through follow-up examinations and tracing through population registers. We found 3.3% metastases in 153 patients with skin SCC and 11% metastases in 55 patients with labial SCC. Three patients with genital SCC were free of metastases. These results and the available literature on patients with SCC of osteomyelitic foci and scars from burns or x-ray treatment indicate that sharp distinctions must be made among three groups of SCC; mucocutaneous, primary cutaneous, and cutaneous SCC secondary to inflammatory and degenerative processes. The incidence of metastases in the three groups is approximately 11%, 3%, and 10% to 30%, respectively. Percentages found are important to dermatology clinics because skin SCC should be considered a malignant tumor with a higher incidence of metastases than previously assumed.", "PMID": 453871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10830", "title": "Antibodies eluted from lymphoid cell membrane. Occurrence in certain varieties of scleroderma.", "content": "By means of acid elution two antibodies could be removed successfully from the circulating lymphocytes of 11 patients with certain varieties of scleroderma. One was specifically directed against nuclear antigen(s) of endothelial cells (NEC) of the dermal blood vessels, and another against nuclear antigen(s) of epidermal basal cells (NBC) of the involved and uninvolved skin of the patients. In two cases of acroscleroderma, the eluates failed to react with either endothelial or basal cells of involved or uninvolved skin. In none of 20 healthy controls involved in this study could an antibody be eluted from the circulating lymphocytes. The aforementioned antibodies do not bind complement in vitro and do occur in the serum of four patients. Circulating antinuclear antibody (speckled type) was detectable in two cases of scleroderma.", "contents": "Antibodies eluted from lymphoid cell membrane. Occurrence in certain varieties of scleroderma. By means of acid elution two antibodies could be removed successfully from the circulating lymphocytes of 11 patients with certain varieties of scleroderma. One was specifically directed against nuclear antigen(s) of endothelial cells (NEC) of the dermal blood vessels, and another against nuclear antigen(s) of epidermal basal cells (NBC) of the involved and uninvolved skin of the patients. In two cases of acroscleroderma, the eluates failed to react with either endothelial or basal cells of involved or uninvolved skin. In none of 20 healthy controls involved in this study could an antibody be eluted from the circulating lymphocytes. The aforementioned antibodies do not bind complement in vitro and do occur in the serum of four patients. Circulating antinuclear antibody (speckled type) was detectable in two cases of scleroderma.", "PMID": 453872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10831", "title": "Allergic hypersensitivity to neomycin. Relationship between patch test reactions and 'use' tests.", "content": "The prevalence of neomycin patch test sensitivity in the general population is approximately 1%. We describe the relationship between positive neomycin patch tests and clinical \"use tests\" with two antibiotic combinations (Neosporin G cream and Neosporin ointment). The neomycin use test was positive in seven of eight subjects with a strongly positive patch test, and in two of four subjects with a weakly positive patch test. A positive use test usually occurred earlier and was always more intense with the cream base. The use test reactions were usually mild even with continued application of the antigen. Use tests with commercial products may be helpful in evaluating the clinical relevance of positive patch tests.", "contents": "Allergic hypersensitivity to neomycin. Relationship between patch test reactions and 'use' tests. The prevalence of neomycin patch test sensitivity in the general population is approximately 1%. We describe the relationship between positive neomycin patch tests and clinical \"use tests\" with two antibiotic combinations (Neosporin G cream and Neosporin ointment). The neomycin use test was positive in seven of eight subjects with a strongly positive patch test, and in two of four subjects with a weakly positive patch test. A positive use test usually occurred earlier and was always more intense with the cream base. The use test reactions were usually mild even with continued application of the antigen. Use tests with commercial products may be helpful in evaluating the clinical relevance of positive patch tests.", "PMID": 453873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10832", "title": "Topical tretinoin therapy and oral lichen planus.", "content": "The treatment of severe forms of oral lichen planus is still relatively unsatisfactory. In this controlled study, 0.1% tretinoin in an adhesive base was used in 23 patients. Fifteen other control patients were similarly treated with the vehicle alone. In the tretinoin-treated group, 71% of the atrophic-erosive lesions improved while 29% improved from the vehicle (P less than .05). Reticular-plaque lesions improved in 74% from tretinoin and in 15% from the vehicle (P less than .001). Irritation from tretinoin occurs and thorough usage information is mandatory.", "contents": "Topical tretinoin therapy and oral lichen planus. The treatment of severe forms of oral lichen planus is still relatively unsatisfactory. In this controlled study, 0.1% tretinoin in an adhesive base was used in 23 patients. Fifteen other control patients were similarly treated with the vehicle alone. In the tretinoin-treated group, 71% of the atrophic-erosive lesions improved while 29% improved from the vehicle (P less than .05). Reticular-plaque lesions improved in 74% from tretinoin and in 15% from the vehicle (P less than .001). Irritation from tretinoin occurs and thorough usage information is mandatory.", "PMID": 453874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10833", "title": "Primary cutaneous plasmacytoma. Report of a case and review of the literature.", "content": "Clinical, laboratory, and pathologic findings from a case of malignant extramedullary plasmacytoma of the skin are presented. To our knowledge, this is the 11th reported case of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the skin and the second reported case with a complete follow-up and postmortem examination. In these two cases, surgical excision of the tumor mass, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy were ineffective. At necropsy, visceral metastases were found, but there was no bone marrow involvement.", "contents": "Primary cutaneous plasmacytoma. Report of a case and review of the literature. Clinical, laboratory, and pathologic findings from a case of malignant extramedullary plasmacytoma of the skin are presented. To our knowledge, this is the 11th reported case of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the skin and the second reported case with a complete follow-up and postmortem examination. In these two cases, surgical excision of the tumor mass, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy were ineffective. At necropsy, visceral metastases were found, but there was no bone marrow involvement.", "PMID": 453875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10834", "title": "Vasculitis associated with intestinal bypass surgery.", "content": "We report two cases in which necrotizing vasculitis with tenosynovitis arthralgia/arthritis syndrome developed after intestinal bypass surgery. Each of these patients had jejunoileostomies, and the excluded segment was placed in an ileal-colonic anastomosis. We speculate that since the attachment of the excluded segment to the large intestine predisposes it to increased bowel overgrowth of bacteria, these bacteria or their debris may have served as antigens for circulating immune complexes, which were detected in both patients by one or more techniques. Patients who have had an end-to-side anastomosis may be less predisposed to the more severe vasculitis syndrome because there is less likelihood of bacterial overgrowth in the bypassed intestinal segment.", "contents": "Vasculitis associated with intestinal bypass surgery. We report two cases in which necrotizing vasculitis with tenosynovitis arthralgia/arthritis syndrome developed after intestinal bypass surgery. Each of these patients had jejunoileostomies, and the excluded segment was placed in an ileal-colonic anastomosis. We speculate that since the attachment of the excluded segment to the large intestine predisposes it to increased bowel overgrowth of bacteria, these bacteria or their debris may have served as antigens for circulating immune complexes, which were detected in both patients by one or more techniques. Patients who have had an end-to-side anastomosis may be less predisposed to the more severe vasculitis syndrome because there is less likelihood of bacterial overgrowth in the bypassed intestinal segment.", "PMID": 453876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10835", "title": "Plasmapheresis and immunosuppressive therapy. Effect on levels of intercellular antibodies in pemphigus vulgaris.", "content": "A patient with pemphigus vulgaris and serious side effects of steroid therapy was treated by exchange plasmapheresis. Eight plasmaphereses were performed over six weeks. Each procedure reduced the serum level of intercellular antibodies by 50% to 87%. A rebound in levels of intercellular antibodies usually followed their depletion but could be minimized or completely suppressed by administration of cyclophosphamide. After six weeks of therapy, clinical symptoms had greatly improved and intercellular antibody levels had decreased from a titer of 5,120 to 160. It is not possible to ascribe these improvements specifically to plasmapheresis since the patient was concurrently receiving low doses of prednisone and intermittent treatment with cyclophosphamide.", "contents": "Plasmapheresis and immunosuppressive therapy. Effect on levels of intercellular antibodies in pemphigus vulgaris. A patient with pemphigus vulgaris and serious side effects of steroid therapy was treated by exchange plasmapheresis. Eight plasmaphereses were performed over six weeks. Each procedure reduced the serum level of intercellular antibodies by 50% to 87%. A rebound in levels of intercellular antibodies usually followed their depletion but could be minimized or completely suppressed by administration of cyclophosphamide. After six weeks of therapy, clinical symptoms had greatly improved and intercellular antibody levels had decreased from a titer of 5,120 to 160. It is not possible to ascribe these improvements specifically to plasmapheresis since the patient was concurrently receiving low doses of prednisone and intermittent treatment with cyclophosphamide.", "PMID": 453877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10836", "title": "Yellow nail syndrome. Possible association with malignancy.", "content": "A dramatic resolution of yellow nail deformity occurred in a 66-year-old man shortly after the removal of a carcinoma of the larynx. Seventeen months later, a productive cough developed and radiologic evidence of bronchiectasis was found. There was no evidence of lymphedema, pleural effusion, sinusitis, or immunologic abnormalities. At least three other patients with a variant of yellow nail syndrome have died of malignancy. Therefore, the resolution of the nail deformity following laryngectomy may not be fortuitous.", "contents": "Yellow nail syndrome. Possible association with malignancy. A dramatic resolution of yellow nail deformity occurred in a 66-year-old man shortly after the removal of a carcinoma of the larynx. Seventeen months later, a productive cough developed and radiologic evidence of bronchiectasis was found. There was no evidence of lymphedema, pleural effusion, sinusitis, or immunologic abnormalities. At least three other patients with a variant of yellow nail syndrome have died of malignancy. Therefore, the resolution of the nail deformity following laryngectomy may not be fortuitous.", "PMID": 453878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10837", "title": "Toxoplasmosis appearing to be dermatomyositis.", "content": "A case of toxoplasmosis occurred simultaneously with dermatomyositis in a 12-year-old boy. The patient was treated with sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine; within two weeks after initiating therapy, dramatic clinical improvement was noted. Several previous cases of toxoplasmosis occurring in association with polymyositis have been described in the literature. A serologic investigation for Toxoplasma infection might prove to be of value in establishing the cause of dermatomyositis and polymyositis. Moreover, in selected cases of dermatomyositis or polymyositis, treatment with sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid may be a valuable alternative to the use of steroids and immunosuppressive agents.", "contents": "Toxoplasmosis appearing to be dermatomyositis. A case of toxoplasmosis occurred simultaneously with dermatomyositis in a 12-year-old boy. The patient was treated with sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine; within two weeks after initiating therapy, dramatic clinical improvement was noted. Several previous cases of toxoplasmosis occurring in association with polymyositis have been described in the literature. A serologic investigation for Toxoplasma infection might prove to be of value in establishing the cause of dermatomyositis and polymyositis. Moreover, in selected cases of dermatomyositis or polymyositis, treatment with sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid may be a valuable alternative to the use of steroids and immunosuppressive agents.", "PMID": 453879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10838", "title": "Sporotrichoid cutaneous infection due to Mycobacterium chelonei.", "content": "Extensive cutaneous lesions that simulated sporotrichosis developed in a patient. Mycobacterium chelonei, a facultative pathogen that exists as a saprophyte in the environment and rarely produces clinical disease in humans, grew from culture of biopsy material. There was no evidence of visceral involvement, and the lesions healed spontaneously within six months.", "contents": "Sporotrichoid cutaneous infection due to Mycobacterium chelonei. Extensive cutaneous lesions that simulated sporotrichosis developed in a patient. Mycobacterium chelonei, a facultative pathogen that exists as a saprophyte in the environment and rarely produces clinical disease in humans, grew from culture of biopsy material. There was no evidence of visceral involvement, and the lesions healed spontaneously within six months.", "PMID": 453880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10839", "title": "Eruptive vellus hair cyst. Clinical and histologic findings.", "content": "This is, to our knowledge, the second report of eruptive vellus hair cysts. The lesions, which occurred in an 18-year-old woman, consisted of 35 to 40 brownish-black, 1- to 4-mm papules on the anterior aspect of the chest. Histologically, the lesions consisted of small cysts in the middle dermis that contained laminated and amorphous keratinous material and vellus hairs. The cyst wall consisted of several layers of squamous epithelium with a rudimentary follicle attached to its outer aspect. The lesions regressed spontaneously after ten months. The pathogenesis is obscure but the condition appears to be a new distinctive entity.", "contents": "Eruptive vellus hair cyst. Clinical and histologic findings. This is, to our knowledge, the second report of eruptive vellus hair cysts. The lesions, which occurred in an 18-year-old woman, consisted of 35 to 40 brownish-black, 1- to 4-mm papules on the anterior aspect of the chest. Histologically, the lesions consisted of small cysts in the middle dermis that contained laminated and amorphous keratinous material and vellus hairs. The cyst wall consisted of several layers of squamous epithelium with a rudimentary follicle attached to its outer aspect. The lesions regressed spontaneously after ten months. The pathogenesis is obscure but the condition appears to be a new distinctive entity.", "PMID": 453881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10840", "title": "Radionuclide scanning in pseudo-Kaposi's sarcoma.", "content": "Sodium pertechnetate Tc 99m radionuclide scanning is considered to be a sensitive indicator in detecting lesions of Kaposi's sarcoma, including occult infiltrations. This report describes a \"false-positive\" scan in a patient with acroanglodermatitis (pseudo-Kaposi's sarcoma); therefore, this technique may not be useful in the differential diagnosis of these two clinically and histologically similar diseases. We suggest, instead that the technetium scan may be helpful in deciding on the course of therapy in acroangiodermatitis by demonstrating the nature of the underlying vascular anomalies.", "contents": "Radionuclide scanning in pseudo-Kaposi's sarcoma. Sodium pertechnetate Tc 99m radionuclide scanning is considered to be a sensitive indicator in detecting lesions of Kaposi's sarcoma, including occult infiltrations. This report describes a \"false-positive\" scan in a patient with acroanglodermatitis (pseudo-Kaposi's sarcoma); therefore, this technique may not be useful in the differential diagnosis of these two clinically and histologically similar diseases. We suggest, instead that the technetium scan may be helpful in deciding on the course of therapy in acroangiodermatitis by demonstrating the nature of the underlying vascular anomalies.", "PMID": 453882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10841", "title": "Infantile acropustulosis.", "content": "Infantile acropustulosis is a syndrome that is characterized by recurrent crops of 1- to 2-mm, intensely pruritic vesicopustules on the distal extremities. The eruption is unresponsive to topical steroids, and pruritus is relieved only by soporific doses of antihistamines.", "contents": "Infantile acropustulosis. Infantile acropustulosis is a syndrome that is characterized by recurrent crops of 1- to 2-mm, intensely pruritic vesicopustules on the distal extremities. The eruption is unresponsive to topical steroids, and pruritus is relieved only by soporific doses of antihistamines.", "PMID": 453890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10842", "title": "Bowel bypass syndrome.", "content": "We report two cases of a syndrome related to the bowel bypass surgical procedure. This syndrome consists of a flu-like illness, with temperatures from 38.3 to 39.4 degrees C (101 to 103 degrees F), chills, malaise, and inflammatory papules and pustules, 2 to 4 mm in diameter, on the extremities and upper part of the trunk. The illness lasts two to six days, and then recurs in one to six weeks. During some episodes, myalgia and polyarthralgia occur; between episodes, joints are normal. In both patients, extensive evaluations had been made to determine the cause of the persistent illness before this distinctive syndrome, related to the bowel bypass surgical procedure, was recognized. These two cases are also illustrative of the two therapeutic approaches that may be of value: administration of antibiotics, esecially metronidazole, or reconstitution of the normal bowel anatomy. The relationship of this syndrome to the arthritis associated with bowel bypass and to bypass enteropathy is discussed.", "contents": "Bowel bypass syndrome. We report two cases of a syndrome related to the bowel bypass surgical procedure. This syndrome consists of a flu-like illness, with temperatures from 38.3 to 39.4 degrees C (101 to 103 degrees F), chills, malaise, and inflammatory papules and pustules, 2 to 4 mm in diameter, on the extremities and upper part of the trunk. The illness lasts two to six days, and then recurs in one to six weeks. During some episodes, myalgia and polyarthralgia occur; between episodes, joints are normal. In both patients, extensive evaluations had been made to determine the cause of the persistent illness before this distinctive syndrome, related to the bowel bypass surgical procedure, was recognized. These two cases are also illustrative of the two therapeutic approaches that may be of value: administration of antibiotics, esecially metronidazole, or reconstitution of the normal bowel anatomy. The relationship of this syndrome to the arthritis associated with bowel bypass and to bypass enteropathy is discussed.", "PMID": 453891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10843", "title": "Tar gel-phototherapy for psoriasis. Combined therapy with suberythemogenic doses of fluorescent sunlamp ultraviolet radiation.", "content": "To determine the efficacy of suberythemogenic ultraviolet phototherapy in conjunction with administration of a tar gel (SEUV TG), patients with widespread psoriasis were treated by application of a tar gel preparation followed after 12 hours by suberythemogenic doses of fluorescent sunlamp irradiation. In paired comparison studies, therapeutic effects of the following treatments were evaluated: SEUV-TG, a more conventional erythemogenic tar gel phototherapy regimen (modified Goeckerman), the tar gel alone, and SEUV irradiation following application of gel vehicle. Response to therapy was monitored with a severity score system. In patients with psoriasis responsive to phototherapy, smaller quantities of UV energy administered in combination with a tar gel were at least as effective as larger erythemogenic doses. Production of erythema with fluorescent sunlamp radiation does not appear to be necessary to improve psoriasis. Both UV radiation and tar gel have beneficial effects on psoriasis, but the combination is superior.", "contents": "Tar gel-phototherapy for psoriasis. Combined therapy with suberythemogenic doses of fluorescent sunlamp ultraviolet radiation. To determine the efficacy of suberythemogenic ultraviolet phototherapy in conjunction with administration of a tar gel (SEUV TG), patients with widespread psoriasis were treated by application of a tar gel preparation followed after 12 hours by suberythemogenic doses of fluorescent sunlamp irradiation. In paired comparison studies, therapeutic effects of the following treatments were evaluated: SEUV-TG, a more conventional erythemogenic tar gel phototherapy regimen (modified Goeckerman), the tar gel alone, and SEUV irradiation following application of gel vehicle. Response to therapy was monitored with a severity score system. In patients with psoriasis responsive to phototherapy, smaller quantities of UV energy administered in combination with a tar gel were at least as effective as larger erythemogenic doses. Production of erythema with fluorescent sunlamp radiation does not appear to be necessary to improve psoriasis. Both UV radiation and tar gel have beneficial effects on psoriasis, but the combination is superior.", "PMID": 453892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10844", "title": "Sheep erythrocyte rosette formation and phytohemagglutinin-stimulated cells. Two cases of mycosis fungoides with skin tumors and lymph nodes.", "content": "Infiltrating cells were harvested by mechanical means from skin tumors and lymph nodes of myocis fungoides. Sheep erythrocyte rosette formation was observed on more than 90% of small lymphocyte-like cells with irregular nuclei but seemed to be hardly detectable on larger cells. The small and large cells that formed erythrocyte rosettes showed similar basic ultrastructures, which suggested that these two types of cells are of the same origin. When cultured with phytohemagglutinin (PHA), 90% of the small cells underwent transformation, and they were found to be lymphoblast-like cells with irregular nuclei by electron microscopy. Only 40% of the large cells were transformed with PHA.", "contents": "Sheep erythrocyte rosette formation and phytohemagglutinin-stimulated cells. Two cases of mycosis fungoides with skin tumors and lymph nodes. Infiltrating cells were harvested by mechanical means from skin tumors and lymph nodes of myocis fungoides. Sheep erythrocyte rosette formation was observed on more than 90% of small lymphocyte-like cells with irregular nuclei but seemed to be hardly detectable on larger cells. The small and large cells that formed erythrocyte rosettes showed similar basic ultrastructures, which suggested that these two types of cells are of the same origin. When cultured with phytohemagglutinin (PHA), 90% of the small cells underwent transformation, and they were found to be lymphoblast-like cells with irregular nuclei by electron microscopy. Only 40% of the large cells were transformed with PHA.", "PMID": 453893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10845", "title": "Clofazimine in the treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum.", "content": "Ten patients with pyoderma gangrenosum, seven female and three male, 25 to 94 years old, mainly with multiple lesions, have been treated with clofazimine, 100 mg three times daily. Associated disease was registered in three patients: diabetes mellitus, a previous adenocarcinoma of the colon treated by hemicolectomy, and pustulosis palmoplantaris. In a further patient, M-component was found in the serum. In seven cases the lesions were completely healed by two to five months of therapy, and in three cases the ulcers healed partially. Side effects were redness of the skin in seven cases and dryness of the skin in two patients. No hematological side effects occurred. The working mechanism is still obscure.", "contents": "Clofazimine in the treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum. Ten patients with pyoderma gangrenosum, seven female and three male, 25 to 94 years old, mainly with multiple lesions, have been treated with clofazimine, 100 mg three times daily. Associated disease was registered in three patients: diabetes mellitus, a previous adenocarcinoma of the colon treated by hemicolectomy, and pustulosis palmoplantaris. In a further patient, M-component was found in the serum. In seven cases the lesions were completely healed by two to five months of therapy, and in three cases the ulcers healed partially. Side effects were redness of the skin in seven cases and dryness of the skin in two patients. No hematological side effects occurred. The working mechanism is still obscure.", "PMID": 453894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10846", "title": "Cutaneous lupus erythematosus associated with melanoma and BCG vaccine therapy.", "content": "Abnormalities in host immunologic defenses may be associated with melanoma and lupus erythematosus, In two patients, cutaneous lupus erythematosus developed in the course of melanoma. Immunoglobulin deposits and complement were seen on direct immunofluorescence of exposed uninvolved skin. One patient was undergoing immunotherapy with BCG vaccine when the eruption occurred.", "contents": "Cutaneous lupus erythematosus associated with melanoma and BCG vaccine therapy. Abnormalities in host immunologic defenses may be associated with melanoma and lupus erythematosus, In two patients, cutaneous lupus erythematosus developed in the course of melanoma. Immunoglobulin deposits and complement were seen on direct immunofluorescence of exposed uninvolved skin. One patient was undergoing immunotherapy with BCG vaccine when the eruption occurred.", "PMID": 453895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10847", "title": "Nail plate-nail bed separation. An unusual side effect of systemic fluorouracil administration.", "content": "A 62-year-old woman with metastatic gastric carcinoma was treated with fluorouracil for her malignant neoplasm. Nail plate-nail bed separation was noted in the fingers and toes after two months of weekly chemotherapy and appeared to be caused by the fluorouracil.", "contents": "Nail plate-nail bed separation. An unusual side effect of systemic fluorouracil administration. A 62-year-old woman with metastatic gastric carcinoma was treated with fluorouracil for her malignant neoplasm. Nail plate-nail bed separation was noted in the fingers and toes after two months of weekly chemotherapy and appeared to be caused by the fluorouracil.", "PMID": 453896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10848", "title": "Sebaceous carcinoma of the skin with visceral metastases.", "content": "Sebaceous carcinoma is an uncommon cutaneous malignant neoplasm that rarely metastasizes. We report a case in which a moderately well-differentiated sebaceous carcinoma arising on the anterior aspect of the chest produced widespread visceral metastases. This unexpected clinical behavior underscores the fact that sebaceous carcinoma of the skin can sometimes be very biologically aggressive.", "contents": "Sebaceous carcinoma of the skin with visceral metastases. Sebaceous carcinoma is an uncommon cutaneous malignant neoplasm that rarely metastasizes. We report a case in which a moderately well-differentiated sebaceous carcinoma arising on the anterior aspect of the chest produced widespread visceral metastases. This unexpected clinical behavior underscores the fact that sebaceous carcinoma of the skin can sometimes be very biologically aggressive.", "PMID": 453897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10849", "title": "Facial granuloma annulare.", "content": "Of six cases of granuloma annulare of the face, three cases were not associated with lesions on the extremities or trunk. Histologic examination exhibited typical features of granuloma annulare. One patient's lesion was a recurrent solitary subcutaneous nodule.", "contents": "Facial granuloma annulare. Of six cases of granuloma annulare of the face, three cases were not associated with lesions on the extremities or trunk. Histologic examination exhibited typical features of granuloma annulare. One patient's lesion was a recurrent solitary subcutaneous nodule.", "PMID": 453898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10850", "title": "Chronic papular dermatitis of the scrotum due to Schistosoma mansoni.", "content": "A 17-year-old boy with chronic papules of the scrotum showed no improvement after topical therapy. A skin biopsy specimen showed Schistosoma mansoni eggs. No evidence of bladder or bowel involvement was found. No treatment is necessary for schistosomal infections without severe symptoms or excessive egg production.", "contents": "Chronic papular dermatitis of the scrotum due to Schistosoma mansoni. A 17-year-old boy with chronic papules of the scrotum showed no improvement after topical therapy. A skin biopsy specimen showed Schistosoma mansoni eggs. No evidence of bladder or bowel involvement was found. No treatment is necessary for schistosomal infections without severe symptoms or excessive egg production.", "PMID": 453899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10851", "title": "Localized scleroderma with cutaneous calcinosis. A distinctive variant.", "content": "Two patients had a distinctive variant of localized scleroderma. Both have a history of sclerodermatous changes of the skin over the face developing relatively late in life and accompanied by hair loss, cutaneous calcification, and prominent beaking of the nose. A striking lack of systemic involvement also was noted.", "contents": "Localized scleroderma with cutaneous calcinosis. A distinctive variant. Two patients had a distinctive variant of localized scleroderma. Both have a history of sclerodermatous changes of the skin over the face developing relatively late in life and accompanied by hair loss, cutaneous calcification, and prominent beaking of the nose. A striking lack of systemic involvement also was noted.", "PMID": 453900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10852", "title": "Erythema chronicum migrans with purpura and polymorphonuclear infiltrates.", "content": "Erythema chronicum migrans with an intensely purpuric border developed in a 70-year-old woman. A biopsy specimen, in addition to showing the usual perivascular mononuclear infiltrate, demonstrated numerous polymorphonuclear leukocytes associated with leukocytoclasis. Immunofluorescence study showed vascular deposition of IgM and C3.", "contents": "Erythema chronicum migrans with purpura and polymorphonuclear infiltrates. Erythema chronicum migrans with an intensely purpuric border developed in a 70-year-old woman. A biopsy specimen, in addition to showing the usual perivascular mononuclear infiltrate, demonstrated numerous polymorphonuclear leukocytes associated with leukocytoclasis. Immunofluorescence study showed vascular deposition of IgM and C3.", "PMID": 453901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10853", "title": "Unilateral, linear, zosteriform epidermal nevus with acantholytic dyskeratosis.", "content": "An infant has a nevus unius lateris with the histopathologic condition of acantholytic dyskeratosis. Similar cases have, in the past, been classified as unilateral Darier's disease. Since it is now recognized that the pathologic changes of acantholytic dyskeratosis are not specific for a given disease entity, we believe the concept of unilateral keratosis follicularis deserves reevaluation.", "contents": "Unilateral, linear, zosteriform epidermal nevus with acantholytic dyskeratosis. An infant has a nevus unius lateris with the histopathologic condition of acantholytic dyskeratosis. Similar cases have, in the past, been classified as unilateral Darier's disease. Since it is now recognized that the pathologic changes of acantholytic dyskeratosis are not specific for a given disease entity, we believe the concept of unilateral keratosis follicularis deserves reevaluation.", "PMID": 453902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10854", "title": "Zebra-like hyperpigmentation in an infant with multiple congenital defects.", "content": "An unusual pattern of zebra-like hyperpigmentation was observed in a black male infant with congenital defects that included an atrial septal defect, dextrocardia, auricular atresia, deafness, and growth retardation. The hyperpigmentation was strikingly linear and symmetrical and followed a dermatomal distribution, with involvement of the trunk and extremities. Results of histological, histochemical, and electron microscopic studies were normal except for an increase in the number of melanocytes in the bands of hyperpigmentation. This pigmentary anomaly appears to be transient and has faded to 50% of its original intensity. A review of the literature has not disclosed any similar cases.", "contents": "Zebra-like hyperpigmentation in an infant with multiple congenital defects. An unusual pattern of zebra-like hyperpigmentation was observed in a black male infant with congenital defects that included an atrial septal defect, dextrocardia, auricular atresia, deafness, and growth retardation. The hyperpigmentation was strikingly linear and symmetrical and followed a dermatomal distribution, with involvement of the trunk and extremities. Results of histological, histochemical, and electron microscopic studies were normal except for an increase in the number of melanocytes in the bands of hyperpigmentation. This pigmentary anomaly appears to be transient and has faded to 50% of its original intensity. A review of the literature has not disclosed any similar cases.", "PMID": 453903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10855", "title": "Hypervitaminosis A in a patient with alopecia receiving renal dialysis.", "content": "A patient with gradually increasing hair loss was undergoing long-term renal dialysis. Questioning revealed that her supplemental vitamin program had contained vitamin A only to that extent it was included in a portion of multivitamins taken in conventional amounts for approximately three years. Her serum vitamin A level was 140 micrograms/dL (a normal level is 20 to 80 micrograms/dL). Reports have indicated that chronic renal disease results in a state of relative hypervitaminosis A. This is compounded in renal dialysis by failure to remove vitamin A. The administration of low-dose supplemental vitamin A preparations in this select population is discussed with respect to current concepts of vitamin A metabolism in renal disease.", "contents": "Hypervitaminosis A in a patient with alopecia receiving renal dialysis. A patient with gradually increasing hair loss was undergoing long-term renal dialysis. Questioning revealed that her supplemental vitamin program had contained vitamin A only to that extent it was included in a portion of multivitamins taken in conventional amounts for approximately three years. Her serum vitamin A level was 140 micrograms/dL (a normal level is 20 to 80 micrograms/dL). Reports have indicated that chronic renal disease results in a state of relative hypervitaminosis A. This is compounded in renal dialysis by failure to remove vitamin A. The administration of low-dose supplemental vitamin A preparations in this select population is discussed with respect to current concepts of vitamin A metabolism in renal disease.", "PMID": 453904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10856", "title": "Palmar-plantar lichen sclerosus et atrophicus.", "content": "A 57-year-old woman has had lichen sclerosus et atrophicus confined to the palms and soles for the past six years. Diagnosis was confirmed by histologic study. Our patient's disease has been resistant to therapy.", "contents": "Palmar-plantar lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. A 57-year-old woman has had lichen sclerosus et atrophicus confined to the palms and soles for the past six years. Diagnosis was confirmed by histologic study. Our patient's disease has been resistant to therapy.", "PMID": 453905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10857", "title": "Diagnosis and management of folate deficiency in low birthweight infants.", "content": "Significant folate deficiency in 14 out of 37 preterm infants of birthweights 2.0 kg or less was found to be reliably and most conveniently diagnosed by abnormal morphological changes in peripheral blood and confirmed by the response to folic acid. Deficiency appeared to be more common in light-for-dates infants including the smaller of twins. Neither the clinical status nor the levels of haemoglobin or erythrocyte folate was a reliable guide to the presence of megaloblastic erythropoiesis in the very young preterm infant. 100-200 microgram folic acid a day, orally or IM, may be required to ensure an optimal haematological response, and this would be appropriate for therapeutic trial if the diagnosis is in doubt. This amount would also replenish tissue folate stores; larger doses are likely to exceed the requirements of small infants.", "contents": "Diagnosis and management of folate deficiency in low birthweight infants. Significant folate deficiency in 14 out of 37 preterm infants of birthweights 2.0 kg or less was found to be reliably and most conveniently diagnosed by abnormal morphological changes in peripheral blood and confirmed by the response to folic acid. Deficiency appeared to be more common in light-for-dates infants including the smaller of twins. Neither the clinical status nor the levels of haemoglobin or erythrocyte folate was a reliable guide to the presence of megaloblastic erythropoiesis in the very young preterm infant. 100-200 microgram folic acid a day, orally or IM, may be required to ensure an optimal haematological response, and this would be appropriate for therapeutic trial if the diagnosis is in doubt. This amount would also replenish tissue folate stores; larger doses are likely to exceed the requirements of small infants.", "PMID": 453910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10858", "title": "New technique for servo-control of arterial oxygen tension in preterm infants.", "content": "Equipment has been developed for the servo-control of arterial oxygen tension in sick, newborn babies. Using an indwelling umbilical arterial oxygen electrode as sensor, the equipment successfully regulated the administration of oxygen to 12 newborn babies with respiratory distress syndrome, significantly improving the stability of arterial oxygen tension and lessening the duration of episodes of hypoxia and hyperoxia.", "contents": "New technique for servo-control of arterial oxygen tension in preterm infants. Equipment has been developed for the servo-control of arterial oxygen tension in sick, newborn babies. Using an indwelling umbilical arterial oxygen electrode as sensor, the equipment successfully regulated the administration of oxygen to 12 newborn babies with respiratory distress syndrome, significantly improving the stability of arterial oxygen tension and lessening the duration of episodes of hypoxia and hyperoxia.", "PMID": 453911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10859", "title": "Structural heart disease in the newborn. Changing profile: comparison of 1975 with 1965.", "content": "The earlier detection and investigation of babies with congenital structural heart disease has resulted in earlier treatment and better management of these patients. In 1965, at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, 121 cases were assessed and treated; by 1975 this figure had risen to 226 cases. Few changes were noted in the incidence of the 10 most common malformations, except for the obvious increase in the incidence of patient ductus arteriosus due to survival of increasingly premature infants. The sick cardiac neonate was referred earlier in 1975, studied with newer non-invasive investigations, and, according to the severity of symptoms and signs, was sent sooner to cardiac catheterisation. 80% of babies presenting with cyanosis survived the first month and 60% of babies with congestive heart failure survived. With better surgery and perioperative care, the survival rate in the first month after surgery rose from 37% in 1965 to 70% in 1975.", "contents": "Structural heart disease in the newborn. Changing profile: comparison of 1975 with 1965. The earlier detection and investigation of babies with congenital structural heart disease has resulted in earlier treatment and better management of these patients. In 1965, at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, 121 cases were assessed and treated; by 1975 this figure had risen to 226 cases. Few changes were noted in the incidence of the 10 most common malformations, except for the obvious increase in the incidence of patient ductus arteriosus due to survival of increasingly premature infants. The sick cardiac neonate was referred earlier in 1975, studied with newer non-invasive investigations, and, according to the severity of symptoms and signs, was sent sooner to cardiac catheterisation. 80% of babies presenting with cyanosis survived the first month and 60% of babies with congestive heart failure survived. With better surgery and perioperative care, the survival rate in the first month after surgery rose from 37% in 1965 to 70% in 1975.", "PMID": 453912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10860", "title": "Glycosylated haemoglobin levels in children with diabetes mellitus.", "content": "Total glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1) levels were measured in 94 diabetic children aged between 3 and 19 years. The results were compared with traditional methods of assessing blood glucose control. HbA1 levels correlated with home urine glucose testing (P less than 0.05), with 24-hour urine glucose excretion (P less than 0.01), and with height velocity (P less than 0.001). Within the first two of these parameters there was a wide scatter of results, suggesting the inaccuracy of these methods for assessing control. The association of raised HbA1 levels with height velocities less than 10th centile shows the effect of poor control on growth. HbA1 may prove to be an objective method for assessing long-term blood glucose levels in diabetes, and thus it may be possible to determine the effect of good control in the prevention of the various diabetic complications.", "contents": "Glycosylated haemoglobin levels in children with diabetes mellitus. Total glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1) levels were measured in 94 diabetic children aged between 3 and 19 years. The results were compared with traditional methods of assessing blood glucose control. HbA1 levels correlated with home urine glucose testing (P less than 0.05), with 24-hour urine glucose excretion (P less than 0.01), and with height velocity (P less than 0.001). Within the first two of these parameters there was a wide scatter of results, suggesting the inaccuracy of these methods for assessing control. The association of raised HbA1 levels with height velocities less than 10th centile shows the effect of poor control on growth. HbA1 may prove to be an objective method for assessing long-term blood glucose levels in diabetes, and thus it may be possible to determine the effect of good control in the prevention of the various diabetic complications.", "PMID": 453913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10861", "title": "Improved accuracy of continuous measurement of arterial oxygen tension in sick newborn infants. Criteria for reading and recalibrating the electrode.", "content": "Improved accuracy of continuous arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) measurement is obtained if allowance is made for the response time of the electrode. Recalibration is necessary only when PaO2 measured in a blood sample differs from the electrode value by more than +/- 11.5 mmHg (1.5 kPa).", "contents": "Improved accuracy of continuous measurement of arterial oxygen tension in sick newborn infants. Criteria for reading and recalibrating the electrode. Improved accuracy of continuous arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) measurement is obtained if allowance is made for the response time of the electrode. Recalibration is necessary only when PaO2 measured in a blood sample differs from the electrode value by more than +/- 11.5 mmHg (1.5 kPa).", "PMID": 453914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10862", "title": "Haemorrhage responsive to vitamin K in a 6-week-old infant.", "content": "A 6-week-old breast-fed infant presented with vomiting, jaundice, and irritability. Haemorrhage occurred after lumbar puncture, and a coagulation abnormality which responded to vitamin K was found. It would seem prudent to estimate the prothrombin time before invasive procedures in breast-fed infants of this age, or to give vitamin K to such infants when doubt exists about previous vitamin K administration.", "contents": "Haemorrhage responsive to vitamin K in a 6-week-old infant. A 6-week-old breast-fed infant presented with vomiting, jaundice, and irritability. Haemorrhage occurred after lumbar puncture, and a coagulation abnormality which responded to vitamin K was found. It would seem prudent to estimate the prothrombin time before invasive procedures in breast-fed infants of this age, or to give vitamin K to such infants when doubt exists about previous vitamin K administration.", "PMID": 453915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10863", "title": "Cervical lymphadenitis in childhood due to mycobacteria of the Fortuitum group.", "content": "Two children with cervical lymphadenitis due to Mycobacterium fortuitum infection are described; both presented with erythema nodosum.", "contents": "Cervical lymphadenitis in childhood due to mycobacteria of the Fortuitum group. Two children with cervical lymphadenitis due to Mycobacterium fortuitum infection are described; both presented with erythema nodosum.", "PMID": 453916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10864", "title": "Progressive hypogammaglobulinaemia in a child born to a mother with Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "A young woman developed Hodgkin's disease (nodular sclerosis) in pregnancy and gave birth to a boy who developed common variable immunodeficiency. Initially there was normal IgG with low IgA and IgM, and antibody deficiency. IgG levels fell progressively over 4 years. Cellular immunity was normal. We suggest that this is a further family with immune deficiency presenting with common variable immunodeficiency and lymphoid malignancy.", "contents": "Progressive hypogammaglobulinaemia in a child born to a mother with Hodgkin's disease. A young woman developed Hodgkin's disease (nodular sclerosis) in pregnancy and gave birth to a boy who developed common variable immunodeficiency. Initially there was normal IgG with low IgA and IgM, and antibody deficiency. IgG levels fell progressively over 4 years. Cellular immunity was normal. We suggest that this is a further family with immune deficiency presenting with common variable immunodeficiency and lymphoid malignancy.", "PMID": 453917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10865", "title": "The respiratory disease questionnaire: use of a self-administered version.", "content": "A re-designed and simplified respiratory disease questionnaire was self-completed by 245 coke oven workers who previously were interviewed using the Standardized Medical Research Council/National Heart and Lung Institute form. The self-completion survey yielded significantly greater numbers of positive responses to various questions; nearly twice as many men were classified as having chronic bronchitis based on responses to the self-administered questionnaire. The severity of symptoms correlated with various factors such as the worker's smoking history; family history of lung disease, and job history. We suggest that, when compared with an interview using the British Medical Research Council/National Heart and Lung Institute respiratory disease questionnaire, a simplified, self-completion form may serve as a less expensive, more sensitive, and equally uniform and selective epidemiological tool. Self-completion forms deserve the attention and study previously afforded the interview process.", "contents": "The respiratory disease questionnaire: use of a self-administered version. A re-designed and simplified respiratory disease questionnaire was self-completed by 245 coke oven workers who previously were interviewed using the Standardized Medical Research Council/National Heart and Lung Institute form. The self-completion survey yielded significantly greater numbers of positive responses to various questions; nearly twice as many men were classified as having chronic bronchitis based on responses to the self-administered questionnaire. The severity of symptoms correlated with various factors such as the worker's smoking history; family history of lung disease, and job history. We suggest that, when compared with an interview using the British Medical Research Council/National Heart and Lung Institute respiratory disease questionnaire, a simplified, self-completion form may serve as a less expensive, more sensitive, and equally uniform and selective epidemiological tool. Self-completion forms deserve the attention and study previously afforded the interview process.", "PMID": 453922} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10866", "title": "Effects of asbestos and beryllium on release of alveolar macrophage enzymes.", "content": "Rabbit alveolar macrophages were exposed in culture medium to asbestos, beryllium sulfate, and beryllium oxide. The specific activities of the lysosomal hydrolases, acid phosphatase beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase and beta-glucuronidase plus the glycolytic enzyme, phosphohexose isomerase were determined in the medium, whole-cell homogenates, mitochondrial fractions, and supernatant. These hydrolases increased significantly in the medium but not in the mitochondrial fraction of cells exposed to dusts. Asbestos and beryllium sulfate were highly cytotoxic for alveolar macrophages in vitro and the data suggested that these agents were not associated with an increase in enzyme synthesis but rather a direct cytotoxic effect at the macrophage membrane level. For induction of enzyme release in vitro, a higher concentration of beryllium oxide was needed when compared with asbestos and beryllium sulfate. The cytotoxicity and enzyme release induced by these agents may represent an important nonspecific mechanism by which they induce inflammation and perhaps local proliferation of fibroblasts.", "contents": "Effects of asbestos and beryllium on release of alveolar macrophage enzymes. Rabbit alveolar macrophages were exposed in culture medium to asbestos, beryllium sulfate, and beryllium oxide. The specific activities of the lysosomal hydrolases, acid phosphatase beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase and beta-glucuronidase plus the glycolytic enzyme, phosphohexose isomerase were determined in the medium, whole-cell homogenates, mitochondrial fractions, and supernatant. These hydrolases increased significantly in the medium but not in the mitochondrial fraction of cells exposed to dusts. Asbestos and beryllium sulfate were highly cytotoxic for alveolar macrophages in vitro and the data suggested that these agents were not associated with an increase in enzyme synthesis but rather a direct cytotoxic effect at the macrophage membrane level. For induction of enzyme release in vitro, a higher concentration of beryllium oxide was needed when compared with asbestos and beryllium sulfate. The cytotoxicity and enzyme release induced by these agents may represent an important nonspecific mechanism by which they induce inflammation and perhaps local proliferation of fibroblasts.", "PMID": 453920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10867", "title": "Introduction of iron transport by a potent inducer of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, 2, 3, 7, 8--tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.", "content": "A potent enzymatic inducer, 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, stimulates iron transport in the intestine of the rat. The stimulatory site in the intestine is more available to the inducer given orally than parenterally. Effects on intestinal absorptive mechanisms may be additional public health hazards of enzyme inducers such as 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.", "contents": "Introduction of iron transport by a potent inducer of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, 2, 3, 7, 8--tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. A potent enzymatic inducer, 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, stimulates iron transport in the intestine of the rat. The stimulatory site in the intestine is more available to the inducer given orally than parenterally. Effects on intestinal absorptive mechanisms may be additional public health hazards of enzyme inducers such as 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.", "PMID": 453921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10868", "title": "The effect of carbon monoxide upon erythrocyte delta-aminolevulinicacid dehydratase activity.", "content": "The activity of the delta-aminolevulinicacid dehydratase enzyme in the second reaction of the heme biosynthetic pathway has been determined in human blood in the presence of varying concentrations of carboxyhemoglobin. In vivo and in vitro carbon monoxide exposure causes a consistent, but small, significant diminution of activity. At concentrations of carboxyhemoglobin likely to be found in vivo it is unlikely to significantly influence the use of this enzyme as a measure either of lead exposure or of ethanol consumption.", "contents": "The effect of carbon monoxide upon erythrocyte delta-aminolevulinicacid dehydratase activity. The activity of the delta-aminolevulinicacid dehydratase enzyme in the second reaction of the heme biosynthetic pathway has been determined in human blood in the presence of varying concentrations of carboxyhemoglobin. In vivo and in vitro carbon monoxide exposure causes a consistent, but small, significant diminution of activity. At concentrations of carboxyhemoglobin likely to be found in vivo it is unlikely to significantly influence the use of this enzyme as a measure either of lead exposure or of ethanol consumption.", "PMID": 453923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10869", "title": "Lack of ozone effects on oxygen hemoglobin affinity.", "content": "Ozone exposure has been shown to cause erythrocyte damage and thus may be affecting oxygen delivery by the red cell. Oxyhemoglobin affinity, heme-oxygen binding site interaction (Hill coefficient), and red cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate concentrations were measured in a total of twenty-two New Zealand white rabbits exposed to ozone. Ozone exposures of 1 and 3 ppm for 4 hr in rabbits had no significant (P greater than .05) effect, immediate or delayed, on the parameters measured.", "contents": "Lack of ozone effects on oxygen hemoglobin affinity. Ozone exposure has been shown to cause erythrocyte damage and thus may be affecting oxygen delivery by the red cell. Oxyhemoglobin affinity, heme-oxygen binding site interaction (Hill coefficient), and red cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate concentrations were measured in a total of twenty-two New Zealand white rabbits exposed to ozone. Ozone exposures of 1 and 3 ppm for 4 hr in rabbits had no significant (P greater than .05) effect, immediate or delayed, on the parameters measured.", "PMID": 453924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10870", "title": "Carbon monoxide and ventricular fibrillation threshold in normal dogs.", "content": "In a blind, randomized study, the effect of breathing 100 ppm of carbon monoxide versus compressed, purified air for 2 hr on ventricular fibrillation threshold was investigated in twenty anesthetized normal open-chested dogs. The mean arterial carboxyhemoglobin level was 1.12% in the air control period, 0.99% after air, 1.10% in the carbon monoxide control period, and 6.48% after carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide increased the mean arterial carboxyhemoglobin (P less than .001). Mean ventricular fibrillation thresholds were 19.9 +/- 6.5 mA in the carbon monoxide control period, 15.7 +/- 5.6 mA after carbon monoxide 20.8 +/- 6.3 mA in the air control period, and 24.5 +/- 9.5 mA after air. Carbon monoxide decreased the ventricular fibrillation threshold (P less than .005). These data show that breathing 100 ppm of carbon monoxide for 2 hr reduces the ventricular fibrillation threshold in anesthetized normal open-chested dogs.", "contents": "Carbon monoxide and ventricular fibrillation threshold in normal dogs. In a blind, randomized study, the effect of breathing 100 ppm of carbon monoxide versus compressed, purified air for 2 hr on ventricular fibrillation threshold was investigated in twenty anesthetized normal open-chested dogs. The mean arterial carboxyhemoglobin level was 1.12% in the air control period, 0.99% after air, 1.10% in the carbon monoxide control period, and 6.48% after carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide increased the mean arterial carboxyhemoglobin (P less than .001). Mean ventricular fibrillation thresholds were 19.9 +/- 6.5 mA in the carbon monoxide control period, 15.7 +/- 5.6 mA after carbon monoxide 20.8 +/- 6.3 mA in the air control period, and 24.5 +/- 9.5 mA after air. Carbon monoxide decreased the ventricular fibrillation threshold (P less than .005). These data show that breathing 100 ppm of carbon monoxide for 2 hr reduces the ventricular fibrillation threshold in anesthetized normal open-chested dogs.", "PMID": 453927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10871", "title": "Pulmonary retention of neutron-activated coal dust.", "content": "Coal dust aerosols with cesium-134 and scandium-46 labels were studied in dogs and rats following brief inhalation exposures by external measurement of gamma photons in the 0.6 to 0.8 and 0.9 to 1.1 MeV regions, respectively. Ancillary in vitro studies of the leaching characteristics of the two radionuclides from coal were made and control studies utilizing the \"free\" radionuclides were undertaken for each of the investigations with radioactive coal dust. The biological data strongly infer that coal dust retention in canine lungs is extremely protracted with a biological half-life no shorter than approximately 4.3 yr and probably much longer. The biological model which was formulated and analyzed to obtain this finding is discussed along with its limitations.", "contents": "Pulmonary retention of neutron-activated coal dust. Coal dust aerosols with cesium-134 and scandium-46 labels were studied in dogs and rats following brief inhalation exposures by external measurement of gamma photons in the 0.6 to 0.8 and 0.9 to 1.1 MeV regions, respectively. Ancillary in vitro studies of the leaching characteristics of the two radionuclides from coal were made and control studies utilizing the \"free\" radionuclides were undertaken for each of the investigations with radioactive coal dust. The biological data strongly infer that coal dust retention in canine lungs is extremely protracted with a biological half-life no shorter than approximately 4.3 yr and probably much longer. The biological model which was formulated and analyzed to obtain this finding is discussed along with its limitations.", "PMID": 453926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10872", "title": "Intake of magnesium and toxicity of lead: an experimental model.", "content": "Groups of ten male Wistar rats were fed 100 mg lead/kg body wt . day, or 100 mg lead plus 250 mg Mg . kg body wt . day mixed in the powdered diet as chlorides. Blood and urine were monitored for lead-related enzymes and lead concentrations. Compared to the lead-treated, blood lead and urinary aminolevulinic acid were much lower and blood aminolevulinic acid dehydratase and urinary lead were higher at 30, 45, and 62 days in the lead-magnesium-treated animals. At 45 and 62 days, blood lead was higher in the lead-magnesium group even though the urinary excretion of lead was significantly higher (P less than .01). At 62 days, the lead feeding was discontinued to both groups, but magnesium administration was continued. Both groups of rats were then monitored for urinary excretion of lead and this was significantly higher (P less than .01) in the rats fed magnesium suggesting that magnesium intake helped mobilize lead from bone, thus increasing the blood lead level and subsequent urine excretion. Enzyme levels approached normal values at 106 days only in the lead-magnesium group, thereby indicating low levels of lead toxicity. Lead levels of bones in rats of the lead-magnesium group, when sacrificed at 106 days, were significantly lower (P less than .01) than among those given lead alone, another indication that magnesium helped mobilize lead from bone. The results, therefore, clearly show that feeding magnesium leads to lower retention and increased excretion of lead under the experimental conditions outlined.", "contents": "Intake of magnesium and toxicity of lead: an experimental model. Groups of ten male Wistar rats were fed 100 mg lead/kg body wt . day, or 100 mg lead plus 250 mg Mg . kg body wt . day mixed in the powdered diet as chlorides. Blood and urine were monitored for lead-related enzymes and lead concentrations. Compared to the lead-treated, blood lead and urinary aminolevulinic acid were much lower and blood aminolevulinic acid dehydratase and urinary lead were higher at 30, 45, and 62 days in the lead-magnesium-treated animals. At 45 and 62 days, blood lead was higher in the lead-magnesium group even though the urinary excretion of lead was significantly higher (P less than .01). At 62 days, the lead feeding was discontinued to both groups, but magnesium administration was continued. Both groups of rats were then monitored for urinary excretion of lead and this was significantly higher (P less than .01) in the rats fed magnesium suggesting that magnesium intake helped mobilize lead from bone, thus increasing the blood lead level and subsequent urine excretion. Enzyme levels approached normal values at 106 days only in the lead-magnesium group, thereby indicating low levels of lead toxicity. Lead levels of bones in rats of the lead-magnesium group, when sacrificed at 106 days, were significantly lower (P less than .01) than among those given lead alone, another indication that magnesium helped mobilize lead from bone. The results, therefore, clearly show that feeding magnesium leads to lower retention and increased excretion of lead under the experimental conditions outlined.", "PMID": 453925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10873", "title": "Technique for isoperistaltic gastric tube for esophageal bypass.", "content": "There has not been described a uniformly successful method for palliation of inoperable carcinoma of the esophagus, especially malignant tracheoesophageal fistula. A gastric tube formed from the greater curvature of the stomach is being evaluated for these patients. The blood supply is based on the right gastroepiploic vessels. Using a stapler, one can form a gastric tube sufficiently long to reach the hypopharynx. Placed substernally, anastomosis to the cervical esophagus is performed. In 30 patients postoperative mortality has been 13%. No tube necrosis has occurred, but anastomotic leakage has been a problem. In those patients who had esophageal bypass for palliation and were discharged from the hospital, swallowing function has been satisfactory and the average survival has been 5.2 months.", "contents": "Technique for isoperistaltic gastric tube for esophageal bypass. There has not been described a uniformly successful method for palliation of inoperable carcinoma of the esophagus, especially malignant tracheoesophageal fistula. A gastric tube formed from the greater curvature of the stomach is being evaluated for these patients. The blood supply is based on the right gastroepiploic vessels. Using a stapler, one can form a gastric tube sufficiently long to reach the hypopharynx. Placed substernally, anastomosis to the cervical esophagus is performed. In 30 patients postoperative mortality has been 13%. No tube necrosis has occurred, but anastomotic leakage has been a problem. In those patients who had esophageal bypass for palliation and were discharged from the hospital, swallowing function has been satisfactory and the average survival has been 5.2 months.", "PMID": 453939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10874", "title": "The surgical treatment of arterial injuries in the civilian population.", "content": "During an 8-year period, 191 consecutive patients were treated for arterial injuries. Blunt trauma occurred in 46 patients (24%), low velocity gunshot wounds in 82 patients (43%), shotgun wounds in 22 patients (12%), stab wounds in 20 patients (10%), iatrogenic injury in nine patients (5%), high velocity gunshot wounds in two patients (1%) and other penetrating wounds in ten patients (5%). Preoperative arteriography was performed in 48 patients (25%) who were hemodynamically stable with injuries to major vessels in the thorax, base of neck or extremities and in whom the exact location or extent of injury was unknown. Surgical repair was performed in 184 of 191 patients (96%); seven patients expired intraoperatively before reconstruction could take place. Repair was accomplished in the 184 patients by end-to-end primary anastomosis in 80 patients (44%), lateral sutures in 21 patients (11%), SVG in 71 patients (85%) and Dacron prosthesis in 13 patients (15%). One hundred seventy patients survived (89%) and 21 patients died (11%), seven of the 21 deaths were intraoperative and ten others were due to the effects of trauma to the aorta or its branches.", "contents": "The surgical treatment of arterial injuries in the civilian population. During an 8-year period, 191 consecutive patients were treated for arterial injuries. Blunt trauma occurred in 46 patients (24%), low velocity gunshot wounds in 82 patients (43%), shotgun wounds in 22 patients (12%), stab wounds in 20 patients (10%), iatrogenic injury in nine patients (5%), high velocity gunshot wounds in two patients (1%) and other penetrating wounds in ten patients (5%). Preoperative arteriography was performed in 48 patients (25%) who were hemodynamically stable with injuries to major vessels in the thorax, base of neck or extremities and in whom the exact location or extent of injury was unknown. Surgical repair was performed in 184 of 191 patients (96%); seven patients expired intraoperatively before reconstruction could take place. Repair was accomplished in the 184 patients by end-to-end primary anastomosis in 80 patients (44%), lateral sutures in 21 patients (11%), SVG in 71 patients (85%) and Dacron prosthesis in 13 patients (15%). One hundred seventy patients survived (89%) and 21 patients died (11%), seven of the 21 deaths were intraoperative and ten others were due to the effects of trauma to the aorta or its branches.", "PMID": 453941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10875", "title": "Definitive control of bleeding from severe pelvic fractures.", "content": "Forty patients with severe pelvic fracture and extraperitoneal hemorrhage were reviewed. Eighteen patients seen prior to 1975 (group I) were clinically similar to 22 patients seen subsequently (group II). Major pelvic fracture hemorrhage was defined as bleeding in excess of 2,000 ml over and above initial resuscitation volumes. Ten of 22 group II patients met the criteria for continued extraperitioneal bleeding and were immobilized in an inflatable G-suit after surgically remediable lesions had been excluded. Ventilator support and hemodynamic monitoring were instituted and clinical response recorded. Prompt cessation of bleeding was observed in nine of ten patients. One patient required selective catheterization of a bleeding artery with subsequent embolic occlusion. Significant reductions in overall mortality and the frequency of shock related death were observed in group II patients. Sepsis was the leading cause of late death in survivors. Immobilization of pelvic fracture patients in the G-suit is recommended as a means of controlling continuing retroperitoneal hemorrhage when surgically correctable bleeding points have been dealt with. Failure of patients to respond promptly to the G-suit strongly suggests arterial bleeding amenable to selective catheterization and embolic occlusion.", "contents": "Definitive control of bleeding from severe pelvic fractures. Forty patients with severe pelvic fracture and extraperitoneal hemorrhage were reviewed. Eighteen patients seen prior to 1975 (group I) were clinically similar to 22 patients seen subsequently (group II). Major pelvic fracture hemorrhage was defined as bleeding in excess of 2,000 ml over and above initial resuscitation volumes. Ten of 22 group II patients met the criteria for continued extraperitioneal bleeding and were immobilized in an inflatable G-suit after surgically remediable lesions had been excluded. Ventilator support and hemodynamic monitoring were instituted and clinical response recorded. Prompt cessation of bleeding was observed in nine of ten patients. One patient required selective catheterization of a bleeding artery with subsequent embolic occlusion. Significant reductions in overall mortality and the frequency of shock related death were observed in group II patients. Sepsis was the leading cause of late death in survivors. Immobilization of pelvic fracture patients in the G-suit is recommended as a means of controlling continuing retroperitoneal hemorrhage when surgically correctable bleeding points have been dealt with. Failure of patients to respond promptly to the G-suit strongly suggests arterial bleeding amenable to selective catheterization and embolic occlusion.", "PMID": 453942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10876", "title": "Management of genitourinary injuries in patients with pelvic fractures.", "content": "Associated injuries frequently occur in patients who sustain fractures of the pelvis. Hemorrhage from intrapelvic vessels, rupture of the urinary bladder and avulsion of the membranous urethra in males are among the integral risks in this trauma. Non-operative methods of managing hemorrhage have gained favor in recent experience. The case records of 282 male patients with pelvic fractures were reviewed to evaluate experience with lower genitourinary injuries. Early recognition is important in bladder injuries, and surgical repair is advised, except in selected patients who may be managed by catheter drainage alone. Delayed complications of bladder injury are rare. Membranous urethral injuries entail a high risk of chronic stricture disease and sexual impotence. The rationale of early repair versus delayed repair of these injuries is discussed. The results in this series show advantage for delayed repair.", "contents": "Management of genitourinary injuries in patients with pelvic fractures. Associated injuries frequently occur in patients who sustain fractures of the pelvis. Hemorrhage from intrapelvic vessels, rupture of the urinary bladder and avulsion of the membranous urethra in males are among the integral risks in this trauma. Non-operative methods of managing hemorrhage have gained favor in recent experience. The case records of 282 male patients with pelvic fractures were reviewed to evaluate experience with lower genitourinary injuries. Early recognition is important in bladder injuries, and surgical repair is advised, except in selected patients who may be managed by catheter drainage alone. Delayed complications of bladder injury are rare. Membranous urethral injuries entail a high risk of chronic stricture disease and sexual impotence. The rationale of early repair versus delayed repair of these injuries is discussed. The results in this series show advantage for delayed repair.", "PMID": 453943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10877", "title": "Cecal volvulus: analysis of 50 patients with long-term follow-up.", "content": "Fifty patients operated upon for cecal volvulus were analyzed. The ages ranged from 14 to 88 years and averaged 53 years. Eighteen were males and 32 were females. The presentation was acute, requiring urgent surgery in 41 patients; nine patients presented with chronic symptoms and were operated upon electively. In 14 patients (28%) the cecal volvulus was temporally related to another acute medical problem. The diagnosis was made radiographically in 22 patients (44%) and at operation in 28 patients (56%). Cecal volvulus was correctly diagnosed by barium enema in 20 of the 29 patients (69%) undergoing the study. Eighteen of the patients were treated by cecopexy, 14 by resection, 12 by detorsion alone, and six by tube cecostomy. Mortality was 12% (6/50) and was associated with gangrenous cecum (33%, 3/9), other systemic diseases (24%, 5/21), age over 50 years (19%, 6/31), and acute presentation (15%, 6/41). In the absence of gangrenous cecum, enterotomy was associated with subsequent wound infection in 23% (7/30), as compared to none (0/11) when enterotomy was not performed. There were no recurrences of cecal volvulus in the entire series during follow-up which extended to 17 years, averaged 5.7 years, and was complete in 96% (42/44) of survivors. When gangrenous cecum is present, resection is the treatment of choice. In the absence of gangrenous bowel, cecopexy is recommended because of a low mortality (0/18), low morbidity (3/18), low recurrence rate (0/18) and absence of need to open the unprepped bowel.", "contents": "Cecal volvulus: analysis of 50 patients with long-term follow-up. Fifty patients operated upon for cecal volvulus were analyzed. The ages ranged from 14 to 88 years and averaged 53 years. Eighteen were males and 32 were females. The presentation was acute, requiring urgent surgery in 41 patients; nine patients presented with chronic symptoms and were operated upon electively. In 14 patients (28%) the cecal volvulus was temporally related to another acute medical problem. The diagnosis was made radiographically in 22 patients (44%) and at operation in 28 patients (56%). Cecal volvulus was correctly diagnosed by barium enema in 20 of the 29 patients (69%) undergoing the study. Eighteen of the patients were treated by cecopexy, 14 by resection, 12 by detorsion alone, and six by tube cecostomy. Mortality was 12% (6/50) and was associated with gangrenous cecum (33%, 3/9), other systemic diseases (24%, 5/21), age over 50 years (19%, 6/31), and acute presentation (15%, 6/41). In the absence of gangrenous cecum, enterotomy was associated with subsequent wound infection in 23% (7/30), as compared to none (0/11) when enterotomy was not performed. There were no recurrences of cecal volvulus in the entire series during follow-up which extended to 17 years, averaged 5.7 years, and was complete in 96% (42/44) of survivors. When gangrenous cecum is present, resection is the treatment of choice. In the absence of gangrenous bowel, cecopexy is recommended because of a low mortality (0/18), low morbidity (3/18), low recurrence rate (0/18) and absence of need to open the unprepped bowel.", "PMID": 453944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10878", "title": "The small bowel tumor problem: an assessment based on a 20 year experience with 116 cases.", "content": "Documented rarity, diagnostic difficulty and poor results stimulated this study of 79 malignant and 37 benign small bowel tumors in order to emphasize these lesions, determine their symptomatology and improve diagnosis and results, particularly in the malignant group. Chief symptoms were recurrent abdominal pain and tenderness, signs of obstruction and gastrointestinal bleeding. Fourteen cases were asymptomatic. The mean symptom-diagnosis interval was 6.6 months. Roentgenographic contrast studies were helpful in diagnosing 33 of 43 patients, with false negatives in 10. Laboratory studies were usually not helpful. Metastases were present at the time of surgery in approximately 58%. In the malignant group curative procedures were performed in 36 and palliative in 43, with an operative mortality of 10%. Five and 10 year survival rates were respectively 21/51 (41.2%) and 8/38 (21.2%) for malignancies. Individual 5 and 10 year survival rates were respectively as follows: carcinoid 11/15, 4/8; undifferentiated carcinoma 3/5, 1/3; lymphoma 3/11, 1/9; leiomyosarcoma 2/7, 1/6 and adenocarcinoma 2/13, 1/12. In the benign group results were excellent, except for one death from pulmonary embolism. The study suggests that if results with malignant small bowel tumors are to be improved, prompt diagnostic study and early consideration of laparotomy in patients with suggestive symptoms is mandatory.", "contents": "The small bowel tumor problem: an assessment based on a 20 year experience with 116 cases. Documented rarity, diagnostic difficulty and poor results stimulated this study of 79 malignant and 37 benign small bowel tumors in order to emphasize these lesions, determine their symptomatology and improve diagnosis and results, particularly in the malignant group. Chief symptoms were recurrent abdominal pain and tenderness, signs of obstruction and gastrointestinal bleeding. Fourteen cases were asymptomatic. The mean symptom-diagnosis interval was 6.6 months. Roentgenographic contrast studies were helpful in diagnosing 33 of 43 patients, with false negatives in 10. Laboratory studies were usually not helpful. Metastases were present at the time of surgery in approximately 58%. In the malignant group curative procedures were performed in 36 and palliative in 43, with an operative mortality of 10%. Five and 10 year survival rates were respectively 21/51 (41.2%) and 8/38 (21.2%) for malignancies. Individual 5 and 10 year survival rates were respectively as follows: carcinoid 11/15, 4/8; undifferentiated carcinoma 3/5, 1/3; lymphoma 3/11, 1/9; leiomyosarcoma 2/7, 1/6 and adenocarcinoma 2/13, 1/12. In the benign group results were excellent, except for one death from pulmonary embolism. The study suggests that if results with malignant small bowel tumors are to be improved, prompt diagnostic study and early consideration of laparotomy in patients with suggestive symptoms is mandatory.", "PMID": 453945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10879", "title": "Carotid endarterectomy: review of 276 cases in a community hospital.", "content": "Two hundred seventy-six carotid endarterectomies performed on 232 patients in a community hospital were reviewed. All the surgery was performed in a routine manner utilizing systemic heparinization and an indwelling shunt. There were three deaths in this series, giving a mortality of 1.08%. A transient neurological deficit occurred in seven patients. All of these cleared within a 7-day period; this represents 2.5%. Only one patient had a permanent deficit. Long-term followup from 6 months to 9 years showed that the majority of deaths occurred from myocardial disease and malignancies. Only eight patients later died from stroke.", "contents": "Carotid endarterectomy: review of 276 cases in a community hospital. Two hundred seventy-six carotid endarterectomies performed on 232 patients in a community hospital were reviewed. All the surgery was performed in a routine manner utilizing systemic heparinization and an indwelling shunt. There were three deaths in this series, giving a mortality of 1.08%. A transient neurological deficit occurred in seven patients. All of these cleared within a 7-day period; this represents 2.5%. Only one patient had a permanent deficit. Long-term followup from 6 months to 9 years showed that the majority of deaths occurred from myocardial disease and malignancies. Only eight patients later died from stroke.", "PMID": 453946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10880", "title": "What role should the intra-aortic balloon have in cardiac surgery.", "content": "Intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) to assist the failing circulation has become widely applied and accepted since its introduction in 1968. The elective, preoperative use of IABP for patients undergoing cardiac surgery has now become the controversy. The purposes of this report are to examine our experience with IABP and to determine its appropriate role in high-risk patients. IABP was utilized in 75 of 2333 (3.2%) adult cardiac surgical patients at Emory University Hospital from January 1976 through June 1978. IABP was required for refractory shock following cardiopulmonary bypass (CB) in 53 patients, for preoperative cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction (CSMI) in nine and was electively placed prior to CB in 13. Sixty-two patients (81%) were able to separate from CB with IABP and pharmacologic support and were assisted 24-432 hours (median 64 hours). Fifty-five (73%) were weaned from IABP. Fifty (67%) are hospital survivors; late deaths have occurred in six patients (8%). Hemodynamic effect of IABP was demonstrated by comparison of pumping 1:1 to 1:8 mode in five balloon-dependent patients after CB. IABP was found to decrease systolic blood pressure, left ventricular filling pressure and peripheral resistance (p < .05). It increased diastolic and mean blood pressure, cardiac index and the endocardial viability ratio (p < .05). The post-CB use of IABP resulted in highest salvage when utilized to support failing hearts that required surgery despite recent preoperative infarction or when intraoperative ischemic injury had occurred. Poorest results were in patients with extensive chronic myocardial damage. Except in the case of preoperative cardiogenic shock, it was impossible to establish statistically reliable criteria for patients in whom elective preoperative insertion was found to be necessary. Careful surgical and anesthesia management with good monitoring can be used instead of preoperative IABP in the majority of (if not all) hemodynamically stable patients regardless of risk classification.", "contents": "What role should the intra-aortic balloon have in cardiac surgery. Intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) to assist the failing circulation has become widely applied and accepted since its introduction in 1968. The elective, preoperative use of IABP for patients undergoing cardiac surgery has now become the controversy. The purposes of this report are to examine our experience with IABP and to determine its appropriate role in high-risk patients. IABP was utilized in 75 of 2333 (3.2%) adult cardiac surgical patients at Emory University Hospital from January 1976 through June 1978. IABP was required for refractory shock following cardiopulmonary bypass (CB) in 53 patients, for preoperative cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction (CSMI) in nine and was electively placed prior to CB in 13. Sixty-two patients (81%) were able to separate from CB with IABP and pharmacologic support and were assisted 24-432 hours (median 64 hours). Fifty-five (73%) were weaned from IABP. Fifty (67%) are hospital survivors; late deaths have occurred in six patients (8%). Hemodynamic effect of IABP was demonstrated by comparison of pumping 1:1 to 1:8 mode in five balloon-dependent patients after CB. IABP was found to decrease systolic blood pressure, left ventricular filling pressure and peripheral resistance (p < .05). It increased diastolic and mean blood pressure, cardiac index and the endocardial viability ratio (p < .05). The post-CB use of IABP resulted in highest salvage when utilized to support failing hearts that required surgery despite recent preoperative infarction or when intraoperative ischemic injury had occurred. Poorest results were in patients with extensive chronic myocardial damage. Except in the case of preoperative cardiogenic shock, it was impossible to establish statistically reliable criteria for patients in whom elective preoperative insertion was found to be necessary. Careful surgical and anesthesia management with good monitoring can be used instead of preoperative IABP in the majority of (if not all) hemodynamically stable patients regardless of risk classification.", "PMID": 453947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10881", "title": "Principles for the management of penetrating cardiac wounds.", "content": "An experience with penetrating cardiac injuries between 1974 and 1977 has permitted designation of particular findings as indications for emergent operations and appropriate therapeutic approaches. Of the 46 patients with cardiac trauma, 28 suffered gunshot wounds. Seventeen patients died, and 14 of the deaths occurred as a result of asystole, ventricular fibrillation or exsanguination during operation. Two patients died of neurologic sequelae following successful cardiac repair, and one died secondary to injury not disclosed by physical examination or roentgenogram. The surviving 29 patients had five major complications. Sepsis, organ system failure and cardiac defects rarely occurred despite rapidly performed thoracotomy and severe shock. Since delayed operation has been uniformly associated with adverse outcome and because postoperative complications of emergent pericardial exploration are mild, the following conclusions have been reached: 1) Mediastinal entrance wounds, severe hypotension and signs of cardiac tamponade are demonstrative of cardiac trauma. Therefore, virtually any combination of these physical signs mandates pericardial exploration. 2) Subxiphoid or transdiaphragmatic exploration (during laparotomy) of the pericardium has been valuable in diagnosis of suspected heart wounds. 3) Emergent cardiorrhaphy is the treatment of choice. Pericardiocentesis is at best only temporarily effective. Thoracotomies performed in the emergency room were uniformly unsuccessful. If possible, cardiorrhaphy should be done in the operating room. 4) Median sternotomy is the approach of choice. 5) The basic principles of management of cardiac injury are rapid diagnosis, relief of tamponade, control of hemorrhage, repair of cardiac defects and restoration of blood volume.", "contents": "Principles for the management of penetrating cardiac wounds. An experience with penetrating cardiac injuries between 1974 and 1977 has permitted designation of particular findings as indications for emergent operations and appropriate therapeutic approaches. Of the 46 patients with cardiac trauma, 28 suffered gunshot wounds. Seventeen patients died, and 14 of the deaths occurred as a result of asystole, ventricular fibrillation or exsanguination during operation. Two patients died of neurologic sequelae following successful cardiac repair, and one died secondary to injury not disclosed by physical examination or roentgenogram. The surviving 29 patients had five major complications. Sepsis, organ system failure and cardiac defects rarely occurred despite rapidly performed thoracotomy and severe shock. Since delayed operation has been uniformly associated with adverse outcome and because postoperative complications of emergent pericardial exploration are mild, the following conclusions have been reached: 1) Mediastinal entrance wounds, severe hypotension and signs of cardiac tamponade are demonstrative of cardiac trauma. Therefore, virtually any combination of these physical signs mandates pericardial exploration. 2) Subxiphoid or transdiaphragmatic exploration (during laparotomy) of the pericardium has been valuable in diagnosis of suspected heart wounds. 3) Emergent cardiorrhaphy is the treatment of choice. Pericardiocentesis is at best only temporarily effective. Thoracotomies performed in the emergency room were uniformly unsuccessful. If possible, cardiorrhaphy should be done in the operating room. 4) Median sternotomy is the approach of choice. 5) The basic principles of management of cardiac injury are rapid diagnosis, relief of tamponade, control of hemorrhage, repair of cardiac defects and restoration of blood volume.", "PMID": 453948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10882", "title": "Skeletal abnormalities after jejunoileal bypass.", "content": "Jejunoileal bypass surgery is fraught with many longterm complications, among which is hypovitaminosis D. The relationship, if any, of hypovitaminosis D to the skeletal disease which may occur following this operation is, however, unknown. Consequently, we studied eight patients with low circulating levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D who had undergone jejunoileal bypass at least two and one-half years previously. Despite the absence of skeletal symptoms, the bone biopsies of six of these patients were abnormal. The volume of trabecular bone was diminished in the group as a whole, and half the patients had an excess of unmineralized skeletal matrix. However, no noninvasive diagnostic technique identified those patients with skeletal disease. We therefore conclude that recognition of those jejunoileal bypass patients potentially at risk to develop clinically significant bone disease requires biopsy of the skeleton.", "contents": "Skeletal abnormalities after jejunoileal bypass. Jejunoileal bypass surgery is fraught with many longterm complications, among which is hypovitaminosis D. The relationship, if any, of hypovitaminosis D to the skeletal disease which may occur following this operation is, however, unknown. Consequently, we studied eight patients with low circulating levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D who had undergone jejunoileal bypass at least two and one-half years previously. Despite the absence of skeletal symptoms, the bone biopsies of six of these patients were abnormal. The volume of trabecular bone was diminished in the group as a whole, and half the patients had an excess of unmineralized skeletal matrix. However, no noninvasive diagnostic technique identified those patients with skeletal disease. We therefore conclude that recognition of those jejunoileal bypass patients potentially at risk to develop clinically significant bone disease requires biopsy of the skeleton.", "PMID": 453949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10883", "title": "A stapling instrument for end-to-end inverting anastomoses in the gastrointestinal tract.", "content": "A stapling instrument is described for end-to-end inverting anastomoses applicable principally to low rectal anastomosis or esophagogastric or esophagojejunal anastomosis. The instrument creates an inverting anastomosis held by a double staggered row of stainless steel wire staples creating an anastomosis 21.2 mm internal diameter with no significant inverted flange. The early experience is encouraging.", "contents": "A stapling instrument for end-to-end inverting anastomoses in the gastrointestinal tract. A stapling instrument is described for end-to-end inverting anastomoses applicable principally to low rectal anastomosis or esophagogastric or esophagojejunal anastomosis. The instrument creates an inverting anastomosis held by a double staggered row of stainless steel wire staples creating an anastomosis 21.2 mm internal diameter with no significant inverted flange. The early experience is encouraging.", "PMID": 453950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10884", "title": "Therapeutic and economic impact of a modern amputation program.", "content": "The experience with 142 below-knee amputations for vascular occlusive disease and/or diabetes mellitus in 133 patients has been reviewed. The program utilized Xenon(133) skin bloodflow measurement for the selection of amputation level, emphasized the use of the long posterior skin flap as an important part of surgical technique, and employed immediate postoperative prosthesis with accelerated rehabilitation for postoperative management. The results of this program yielded a 0% postoperative mortality, 89% amputation healing, and 100% prosthesis rehabilitation of all unilateral below-knee amputees, and 93% rehabilitation of all bilateral below-knee amputees. The average time interval between amputation and fitting of a permanent prosthesis was 32 days. The use of Xenon(133) clearance as a measurement of capillary skin bloodflow for purposes of amputation level selection continues to be valid. All amputations with flows in excess of 2.6 ml/100 g tissue/min healed primarily, including the last 58 consecutive amputations. The total amputation of the 172 hospital V.A. system was surveyed and a cost analysis, based upon duration of postamputation hospitalization, comparing immediate postoperative prosthesis with conventional techniques, was performed. The savings to the system, taking into account start-up and maintenance costs for a program which employs immediate postoperative prosthesis, was projected to be $80,000,000 over five years. We conclude that a modern amputation program employing Xenon(133) clearance for amputation level selection and immediate postoperative prosthesis with accelerated rehabilitation is well justified based upon reduced morbidity, negligable mortality, and optimum patient prosthetic rehabilitation at a marked reduction in overall cost.", "contents": "Therapeutic and economic impact of a modern amputation program. The experience with 142 below-knee amputations for vascular occlusive disease and/or diabetes mellitus in 133 patients has been reviewed. The program utilized Xenon(133) skin bloodflow measurement for the selection of amputation level, emphasized the use of the long posterior skin flap as an important part of surgical technique, and employed immediate postoperative prosthesis with accelerated rehabilitation for postoperative management. The results of this program yielded a 0% postoperative mortality, 89% amputation healing, and 100% prosthesis rehabilitation of all unilateral below-knee amputees, and 93% rehabilitation of all bilateral below-knee amputees. The average time interval between amputation and fitting of a permanent prosthesis was 32 days. The use of Xenon(133) clearance as a measurement of capillary skin bloodflow for purposes of amputation level selection continues to be valid. All amputations with flows in excess of 2.6 ml/100 g tissue/min healed primarily, including the last 58 consecutive amputations. The total amputation of the 172 hospital V.A. system was surveyed and a cost analysis, based upon duration of postamputation hospitalization, comparing immediate postoperative prosthesis with conventional techniques, was performed. The savings to the system, taking into account start-up and maintenance costs for a program which employs immediate postoperative prosthesis, was projected to be $80,000,000 over five years. We conclude that a modern amputation program employing Xenon(133) clearance for amputation level selection and immediate postoperative prosthesis with accelerated rehabilitation is well justified based upon reduced morbidity, negligable mortality, and optimum patient prosthetic rehabilitation at a marked reduction in overall cost.", "PMID": 453951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10885", "title": "II. Interference with local myocardial cooling by heat gain during aortic cross-clamping.", "content": "We have used a physical model of the thermal conditions of open-heart surgery to study sources of heat input to the heart during local cardiac cooling. Pulmonary and systemic venous return entering the cardiac chambers were the most important sources of heat to the hypothermic heart. In 5 excised hearts, venous return of 100 ml per minute or more entering the left atrium and left ventricle increased mean septal temperature significantly from 8 +/- 1 degrees C to 16 +/- 1 degree C (p less than 0.01). When venous return passed through the right side of the heart and then the left side, it increased mean septal temperature significantly from 7 +/- 0.5 degrees C to 23 +/- 1 degree C (p less than 0.001). Conduction of heat through the pericardium, heat radiation from standard operating room lights, and heat uptake from room air had relatively minor effect and produced no significant increase in myocardial temperature provided all surfaces of the ventricles were irrigated with cold saline. The hypothermic heart can be isolated from heat input by individual caval cannulation, low bypass perfusion rate, systemic cooling to 30 degrees C, and irrigating all surfaces of the ventricles with cold saline.", "contents": "II. Interference with local myocardial cooling by heat gain during aortic cross-clamping. We have used a physical model of the thermal conditions of open-heart surgery to study sources of heat input to the heart during local cardiac cooling. Pulmonary and systemic venous return entering the cardiac chambers were the most important sources of heat to the hypothermic heart. In 5 excised hearts, venous return of 100 ml per minute or more entering the left atrium and left ventricle increased mean septal temperature significantly from 8 +/- 1 degrees C to 16 +/- 1 degree C (p less than 0.01). When venous return passed through the right side of the heart and then the left side, it increased mean septal temperature significantly from 7 +/- 0.5 degrees C to 23 +/- 1 degree C (p less than 0.001). Conduction of heat through the pericardium, heat radiation from standard operating room lights, and heat uptake from room air had relatively minor effect and produced no significant increase in myocardial temperature provided all surfaces of the ventricles were irrigated with cold saline. The hypothermic heart can be isolated from heat input by individual caval cannulation, low bypass perfusion rate, systemic cooling to 30 degrees C, and irrigating all surfaces of the ventricles with cold saline.", "PMID": 453953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10886", "title": "III. Local cardiac hypothermia: experimental comparison of Shumway's technique and perfusion cooling.", "content": "A model of the thermal conditions of the heart during ischemic arrest was used to study the efficiency of Shumway's technique of topical hypothermia. Cooling was improved by increasing the flow of cold saline to 350 ml per minute, reducing the saline temperature, lifting the posterior left ventricular wall away from the pericardium, and irrigating the left ventricular cavity. Perfusing the coronary circulation with cold fluid cooled the heart eight times faster than did surface irrigations by Shumway's technique.", "contents": "III. Local cardiac hypothermia: experimental comparison of Shumway's technique and perfusion cooling. A model of the thermal conditions of the heart during ischemic arrest was used to study the efficiency of Shumway's technique of topical hypothermia. Cooling was improved by increasing the flow of cold saline to 350 ml per minute, reducing the saline temperature, lifting the posterior left ventricular wall away from the pericardium, and irrigating the left ventricular cavity. Perfusing the coronary circulation with cold fluid cooled the heart eight times faster than did surface irrigations by Shumway's technique.", "PMID": 453954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10887", "title": "Second primary bronchogenic carcinoma: life-table analysis of surgical treatment.", "content": "Twelve patients had curative resection of primary bronchogenic carcinoma. Eleven to 84 months later, a second primary bronchogenic carcinoma was discovered and was operated on. Six patients underwent wedge resection, while the others had a lobectomy or pneumonectomy. There was no operative mortality. Two patients survived longer than 5 years. In addition to these patients, 26 patients who also had successive surgical resections for primary lung cancers were collected from the literature. Two operative deaths were related to respiratory insufficiency. Life-table analysis of this accumulated series of 38 patients revealed the survival rate 1 year after the resection of a second tumor to be 70%, and 2 and 3 years later, 55% and 27%, respectively. Thus, in patients in whom a second primary carcinoma of the lung develops, successive resections tailored to preserve respiratory reserve are compatible with low operative mortality and, in some instances, long-term survival.", "contents": "Second primary bronchogenic carcinoma: life-table analysis of surgical treatment. Twelve patients had curative resection of primary bronchogenic carcinoma. Eleven to 84 months later, a second primary bronchogenic carcinoma was discovered and was operated on. Six patients underwent wedge resection, while the others had a lobectomy or pneumonectomy. There was no operative mortality. Two patients survived longer than 5 years. In addition to these patients, 26 patients who also had successive surgical resections for primary lung cancers were collected from the literature. Two operative deaths were related to respiratory insufficiency. Life-table analysis of this accumulated series of 38 patients revealed the survival rate 1 year after the resection of a second tumor to be 70%, and 2 and 3 years later, 55% and 27%, respectively. Thus, in patients in whom a second primary carcinoma of the lung develops, successive resections tailored to preserve respiratory reserve are compatible with low operative mortality and, in some instances, long-term survival.", "PMID": 453955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10888", "title": "Low-energy direct defibrillation of the human heart.", "content": "A direct cardiac defibrillation study in 30 patients who underwent heart operations with cardiopulmonary bypass and moderate systemic hypothermia is presented. No patient required more than 10 watt-seconds of energy for defibrillation, and, in 21 of them, 5 watt-seconds or less were sufficient.", "contents": "Low-energy direct defibrillation of the human heart. A direct cardiac defibrillation study in 30 patients who underwent heart operations with cardiopulmonary bypass and moderate systemic hypothermia is presented. No patient required more than 10 watt-seconds of energy for defibrillation, and, in 21 of them, 5 watt-seconds or less were sufficient.", "PMID": 453956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10889", "title": "Pericardial fluid gas analysis in hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade.", "content": "Nine patients with hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade were studied to determine the localizing value of gas analysis of pericardial fluid in therapeutic pericardiocentesis. The aspirate and the central venous blood was analyzed simultaneously for partial pressure of oxygen (PO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2), and hematocrit at the time of pericardiocentesis. In all 9 patients the difference in hematocrit between the pericardial fluid and the central venous blood was not significant. The PCO2 of pericardial fluid was significantly higher than that of central venous blood (p less than 0.025). The PO2 of pericardial fluid was consistently and significantly lower than that of central venous blood (p less than 0.005). We conclude that in patients with hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade, the simultaneous measurement of PO2 and PCO2 of central venous blood and pericardial fluid is a useful rapid bedside method to confirm the site of aspiration during pericardiocentesis. The PO2 determination is statistically the best discriminator between the two fluids in this setting.", "contents": "Pericardial fluid gas analysis in hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade. Nine patients with hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade were studied to determine the localizing value of gas analysis of pericardial fluid in therapeutic pericardiocentesis. The aspirate and the central venous blood was analyzed simultaneously for partial pressure of oxygen (PO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2), and hematocrit at the time of pericardiocentesis. In all 9 patients the difference in hematocrit between the pericardial fluid and the central venous blood was not significant. The PCO2 of pericardial fluid was significantly higher than that of central venous blood (p less than 0.025). The PO2 of pericardial fluid was consistently and significantly lower than that of central venous blood (p less than 0.005). We conclude that in patients with hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade, the simultaneous measurement of PO2 and PCO2 of central venous blood and pericardial fluid is a useful rapid bedside method to confirm the site of aspiration during pericardiocentesis. The PO2 determination is statistically the best discriminator between the two fluids in this setting.", "PMID": 453958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10890", "title": "Myocardial stimulation impedance: the effects of electrode, physiological, and stimulus variables.", "content": "With exposed metal at the electrode tissue interface (8 mm2, 28 mm2, 57 mm2), myocardial threshold stimulation impedance increased as pulse duration was lengthened, with left ventricular intramyocardial stimulation, and with the smaller surface area electrode. An 0.5 mm2 differential-current-density electrode, which eliminated direct metal-to-tissue contact at the electrode-myocardial interface, was associated with notably higher impedances than each of the three metal tip electrodes and did not show increasing impedance levels with changes in pulse duration, confirming the minimization of polarization energy losses with this device. The majority of electrode, electrode tissue interface, and myocardial variables that are characterized by high threshold stimulation impedance are associated with low threshold energy requirements for pacing and reduced pacemaker power source drain. No accurate information about sensing impedances can be derived from current knowledge of pacing impedance.", "contents": "Myocardial stimulation impedance: the effects of electrode, physiological, and stimulus variables. With exposed metal at the electrode tissue interface (8 mm2, 28 mm2, 57 mm2), myocardial threshold stimulation impedance increased as pulse duration was lengthened, with left ventricular intramyocardial stimulation, and with the smaller surface area electrode. An 0.5 mm2 differential-current-density electrode, which eliminated direct metal-to-tissue contact at the electrode-myocardial interface, was associated with notably higher impedances than each of the three metal tip electrodes and did not show increasing impedance levels with changes in pulse duration, confirming the minimization of polarization energy losses with this device. The majority of electrode, electrode tissue interface, and myocardial variables that are characterized by high threshold stimulation impedance are associated with low threshold energy requirements for pacing and reduced pacemaker power source drain. No accurate information about sensing impedances can be derived from current knowledge of pacing impedance.", "PMID": 453959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10891", "title": "I. Development of an in vitro model of myocardial cooling: a study of the effect of cardiac size on cooling rate.", "content": "A physical model for the study of local cardiac hypothermia was developed using excised animal hearts. The validity of the model was established by showing close similarity between cooling curves of dog hearts in vivo and in the model. The model was then used to compare the cooling rates of three groups of excised hearts using cold saline irrigation. Groups 1, 2, and 3 had mean left ventricular weights of 166, 379, and 1,429 gm, respectively, and mean left ventricular wall thicknesses of 1.5, 2.0, and 3.1 cm, respectively. For the same 10 degrees C temperature fall, Group 1 took 25 +/- 2.8 minutes, Group 2 took 54 +/- 9.2 minutes, and Group 3 took 117 +/- 21 minutes. To avoid slow cooling and consequent ischemic damage in the hypertrophic ventricle, it may be desirable to initiate cooling using coronary perfusion with cold blood or cold cardioplegic solutions.", "contents": "I. Development of an in vitro model of myocardial cooling: a study of the effect of cardiac size on cooling rate. A physical model for the study of local cardiac hypothermia was developed using excised animal hearts. The validity of the model was established by showing close similarity between cooling curves of dog hearts in vivo and in the model. The model was then used to compare the cooling rates of three groups of excised hearts using cold saline irrigation. Groups 1, 2, and 3 had mean left ventricular weights of 166, 379, and 1,429 gm, respectively, and mean left ventricular wall thicknesses of 1.5, 2.0, and 3.1 cm, respectively. For the same 10 degrees C temperature fall, Group 1 took 25 +/- 2.8 minutes, Group 2 took 54 +/- 9.2 minutes, and Group 3 took 117 +/- 21 minutes. To avoid slow cooling and consequent ischemic damage in the hypertrophic ventricle, it may be desirable to initiate cooling using coronary perfusion with cold blood or cold cardioplegic solutions.", "PMID": 453960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10892", "title": "Pulmonary lymphangiomyomatosis.", "content": "Pulmonary lymphangiomyomatosis is a rare but distinct clinical and pathological entity. It is characterized by hamartomatous proliferation of smooth muscle around the lymphatic vessels of the lung, mediastinum, and retroperitoneum. It occurs only in menstruating women and girls and is manifested by spontaneous pneumothorax and chylous pleural or abdominal effusion. As it progresses, the lungs become increasingly involved with subsequent pulmonary insufficiency and recurrent infection. Eventually death results. This entity has not been reported previously in the surgical literature even though the thoracic surgeon is called on to both establish the diagnosis and aid in palliation. The hypothesis that the disease is estrogen dependent is reviewed and the desirability of estrogen ablation in patients with positive estrogen receptors is suggested.", "contents": "Pulmonary lymphangiomyomatosis. Pulmonary lymphangiomyomatosis is a rare but distinct clinical and pathological entity. It is characterized by hamartomatous proliferation of smooth muscle around the lymphatic vessels of the lung, mediastinum, and retroperitoneum. It occurs only in menstruating women and girls and is manifested by spontaneous pneumothorax and chylous pleural or abdominal effusion. As it progresses, the lungs become increasingly involved with subsequent pulmonary insufficiency and recurrent infection. Eventually death results. This entity has not been reported previously in the surgical literature even though the thoracic surgeon is called on to both establish the diagnosis and aid in palliation. The hypothesis that the disease is estrogen dependent is reviewed and the desirability of estrogen ablation in patients with positive estrogen receptors is suggested.", "PMID": 453961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10893", "title": "Total lung ectoplasia with systemic arterial supply.", "content": "A 6-month-old girl was not to have fever and stridor. Investigations revealed an abnormal lung that communicated with the esophagus and had a systemic arterial supply from the abdominal aorta. Resection of the abnormal lung was performed successfully. We have termed this disorder total lung ectoplasia. Ten patients from the literature were reviewed.", "contents": "Total lung ectoplasia with systemic arterial supply. A 6-month-old girl was not to have fever and stridor. Investigations revealed an abnormal lung that communicated with the esophagus and had a systemic arterial supply from the abdominal aorta. Resection of the abnormal lung was performed successfully. We have termed this disorder total lung ectoplasia. Ten patients from the literature were reviewed.", "PMID": 453962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10894", "title": "Axillofemoral bypass: intrapleural method.", "content": "A new procedure for intrapleural axillary-bilateral femoral bypass is described. This method is proposed as an alternative procedure for bypassing aortoiliac occlusive disease in the high-risk patient.", "contents": "Axillofemoral bypass: intrapleural method. A new procedure for intrapleural axillary-bilateral femoral bypass is described. This method is proposed as an alternative procedure for bypassing aortoiliac occlusive disease in the high-risk patient.", "PMID": 453963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10895", "title": "Drug delivery.", "content": "The calculations necessary to allow infusion of a known drug dosage at micrograms per kilogram of body weight per minute are time-consuming and error prone. A simpler method entails multiplication of the patient's weight in kilograms by the factor 15. The resultant figure represents the number of milligrams of drug to be placed in 250 ml of infusate vehicle. The solution, which is delivered through a microdrip chamber (60 gtt per milliliter), will contain 1 microgram per kilogram in each drop. One is thus permitted to define dosage by setting up the solution to have 1 gtt = 1 microgram/kg.", "contents": "Drug delivery. The calculations necessary to allow infusion of a known drug dosage at micrograms per kilogram of body weight per minute are time-consuming and error prone. A simpler method entails multiplication of the patient's weight in kilograms by the factor 15. The resultant figure represents the number of milligrams of drug to be placed in 250 ml of infusate vehicle. The solution, which is delivered through a microdrip chamber (60 gtt per milliliter), will contain 1 microgram per kilogram in each drop. One is thus permitted to define dosage by setting up the solution to have 1 gtt = 1 microgram/kg.", "PMID": 453964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10896", "title": "Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery.", "content": "Three patients with anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery are presented together with a review of the 14 patients with this anomaly previously reported. One of the current patients is the youngest to be diagnosed before operation and the youngest to undergo corrective operation. Although the lesion is usually asymptomatic, it may contribute to sudden death. The only suggestive physical finding is a continuous murmur with diastolic accentuation, which is present only in some patients. There are no diagnostic electrocardiographic or chest roentgenographic changes. Diagnosis is made best by selective left coronary arteriography showing retrograde filling of the right coronary artery from collateral vessels. Operative repair should consist either of direct reimplantation of the proximal right coronary artery into the aortic root or of saphenous vein bypass graft to the coronary artery with ligation of its origin. Operation is recommended when the lesion is recognized.", "contents": "Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. Three patients with anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery are presented together with a review of the 14 patients with this anomaly previously reported. One of the current patients is the youngest to be diagnosed before operation and the youngest to undergo corrective operation. Although the lesion is usually asymptomatic, it may contribute to sudden death. The only suggestive physical finding is a continuous murmur with diastolic accentuation, which is present only in some patients. There are no diagnostic electrocardiographic or chest roentgenographic changes. Diagnosis is made best by selective left coronary arteriography showing retrograde filling of the right coronary artery from collateral vessels. Operative repair should consist either of direct reimplantation of the proximal right coronary artery into the aortic root or of saphenous vein bypass graft to the coronary artery with ligation of its origin. Operation is recommended when the lesion is recognized.", "PMID": 453965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10897", "title": "Survival and probability of cure without and with operation in complete atrioventricular canal.", "content": "Actuarial analysis based on postmortem examination of patients who had been treated nonsurgically for complete atrioventricular (A-V) canal defect shows that only 54% survive to 6 months of age, 35% to 12 months, 15% to 24 months, and 4% to 5 years of age. Our surgical experience since 1975 in 39 patients confirms the idea that primary repair is feasible in small infants. The highest risk of hospital death is when the operation is done in the early months of life; it falls to 17% by age 12 months. Between 1967 and October, 1976, the five-year survival rate among patients leaving the hospital alive after repair was 91%. The age-specific probability of \"surgical cure\" of patients operated upon for complete A-V canal (alive five years later with mean pulmonary artery pressure less than 25 mm Hg) is maximal at 73% when the operation is done at about 14 months of age. Urgent earlier repair is frequently necessitated by the life history of the disease.", "contents": "Survival and probability of cure without and with operation in complete atrioventricular canal. Actuarial analysis based on postmortem examination of patients who had been treated nonsurgically for complete atrioventricular (A-V) canal defect shows that only 54% survive to 6 months of age, 35% to 12 months, 15% to 24 months, and 4% to 5 years of age. Our surgical experience since 1975 in 39 patients confirms the idea that primary repair is feasible in small infants. The highest risk of hospital death is when the operation is done in the early months of life; it falls to 17% by age 12 months. Between 1967 and October, 1976, the five-year survival rate among patients leaving the hospital alive after repair was 91%. The age-specific probability of \"surgical cure\" of patients operated upon for complete A-V canal (alive five years later with mean pulmonary artery pressure less than 25 mm Hg) is maximal at 73% when the operation is done at about 14 months of age. Urgent earlier repair is frequently necessitated by the life history of the disease.", "PMID": 453968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10898", "title": "Interrupted aortic arch operation in the first week of life: hemodynamic and angiographic evaluation one year later.", "content": "Operation for interrupted aortic arch (IAA) was successful in 2 infants during the first week of life. Both had postoperative hemodynamic and angiographic evaluation at one year of age. The first infant had a type A IAA, and prostaglandins were infused to prevent ductal closure prior to the insertion of a graft between the two ends of the interrupted aorta. The second infant had a palliative operation for type B IAA (pulmonary artery banding and graft from main pulmonary artery to descending aorta). These patients represent the ninth and tenth successful operations for IAA in this age group and are reported with long-term reevaluation.", "contents": "Interrupted aortic arch operation in the first week of life: hemodynamic and angiographic evaluation one year later. Operation for interrupted aortic arch (IAA) was successful in 2 infants during the first week of life. Both had postoperative hemodynamic and angiographic evaluation at one year of age. The first infant had a type A IAA, and prostaglandins were infused to prevent ductal closure prior to the insertion of a graft between the two ends of the interrupted aorta. The second infant had a palliative operation for type B IAA (pulmonary artery banding and graft from main pulmonary artery to descending aorta). These patients represent the ninth and tenth successful operations for IAA in this age group and are reported with long-term reevaluation.", "PMID": 453969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10899", "title": "Surgical treatment of double-outlet left ventricle in 2 patients with D-position and L-position of the aorta.", "content": "Two cases of double-outlet left ventricle (DOLV) are described, 1 with D-position and 1 with L-position of the aorta. Both patients had situs solitus, atrioventricular concordance with D-relationship of the two ventricles, a ventricular septal defect, and subpulmonary stenosis. The patient with D-position of the aorta was operated on using a technique similar to that for repair of Fallot's tetralogy but including emergency implantation of a bioprosthesis into the pulmonary artery position on the eighth postoperative day. Surgical correction in the patient with L-position of the aorta required the implantation of a composite valved conduit between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. The various surgical techniques for correction of DOLV are described, and the literature is reviewed. Postoperative right heart failure in both patients is explained by the impaired function of the right ventricle being exposed to gross pulmonary incompetence or by the persistence of elevated right ventricular pressure.", "contents": "Surgical treatment of double-outlet left ventricle in 2 patients with D-position and L-position of the aorta. Two cases of double-outlet left ventricle (DOLV) are described, 1 with D-position and 1 with L-position of the aorta. Both patients had situs solitus, atrioventricular concordance with D-relationship of the two ventricles, a ventricular septal defect, and subpulmonary stenosis. The patient with D-position of the aorta was operated on using a technique similar to that for repair of Fallot's tetralogy but including emergency implantation of a bioprosthesis into the pulmonary artery position on the eighth postoperative day. Surgical correction in the patient with L-position of the aorta required the implantation of a composite valved conduit between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. The various surgical techniques for correction of DOLV are described, and the literature is reviewed. Postoperative right heart failure in both patients is explained by the impaired function of the right ventricle being exposed to gross pulmonary incompetence or by the persistence of elevated right ventricular pressure.", "PMID": 453970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10900", "title": "Posterior midventricular rupture after mitral valve replacement.", "content": "Posterior midventricular rupture occurred in 3 patients after insertion of a mitral prosthesis. Iatrogenic surgical trauma was not implicated. There were five clinical factors common to each case: a woman with mitral stenosis; a left ventricle of relatively normal size; the use of intermitent cold cardioplegia; the insertion of a porcine heterograft valve; and transient postoperative hypertension. Rupture in such cases may be caused by hyperdynamic left ventricular contraction against the strut of the prosthesis. Causes of ventricular perforation are discussed.", "contents": "Posterior midventricular rupture after mitral valve replacement. Posterior midventricular rupture occurred in 3 patients after insertion of a mitral prosthesis. Iatrogenic surgical trauma was not implicated. There were five clinical factors common to each case: a woman with mitral stenosis; a left ventricle of relatively normal size; the use of intermitent cold cardioplegia; the insertion of a porcine heterograft valve; and transient postoperative hypertension. Rupture in such cases may be caused by hyperdynamic left ventricular contraction against the strut of the prosthesis. Causes of ventricular perforation are discussed.", "PMID": 453971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10901", "title": "Cardia lymph in electrical ventricular fibrillation: an experimental study.", "content": "The flow velocity of cardiac lymph during electrical ventricular fibrillation under normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass was studied experimentally in dogs. The time needed for the cardiac lymph node to become stained after injection of dye into the apex myocardium of the left ventricle was measured as an indicator in determining flow velocity of cardiac lymph. The flow velocity was markedly decelerated immediately after the commencement of electrical ventricular fibrillation. It was accelerated, however, after 2 hours of continuous electrical ventricular fibrillation. The difference between the two values was significant (p less than 0.01). Absent contractility of the heart influenced the deceleration of flow velocity of cardiac lymph immediately after the commencement of electrical ventricular fibrillation. Acceleration after 2 hours involved stasis of cardiac lymph as a result of absent contractility and increment of lymph production due to the nonphysiological condition of the myocardium.", "contents": "Cardia lymph in electrical ventricular fibrillation: an experimental study. The flow velocity of cardiac lymph during electrical ventricular fibrillation under normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass was studied experimentally in dogs. The time needed for the cardiac lymph node to become stained after injection of dye into the apex myocardium of the left ventricle was measured as an indicator in determining flow velocity of cardiac lymph. The flow velocity was markedly decelerated immediately after the commencement of electrical ventricular fibrillation. It was accelerated, however, after 2 hours of continuous electrical ventricular fibrillation. The difference between the two values was significant (p less than 0.01). Absent contractility of the heart influenced the deceleration of flow velocity of cardiac lymph immediately after the commencement of electrical ventricular fibrillation. Acceleration after 2 hours involved stasis of cardiac lymph as a result of absent contractility and increment of lymph production due to the nonphysiological condition of the myocardium.", "PMID": 453972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10902", "title": "Unilateral pulmonary emphysema created by ligation of the left pulmonary artery in newborn puppies.", "content": "The left pulmonary artery was ligated in 7 puppies 12 to 24 hours after birth. All were followed by periodic chest roentgenograms. At 6 months of age, ventilatory spaces, split-lung function, and static compliances were determined. Bronchograms and arteriograms were obtained, and histopathology was studied. All animals demonstrated a decrease in left lung size with gross and microscopic changes typical of chronic emphysema. There was impressive bronchial artery hypertrophy. Oxygen consumption and static compliances in the left lungs were depressed. These marked alterations in maturation, as well as the degenerative changes, are believed to be related to an impairment in the nutritive circulation of the lung.", "contents": "Unilateral pulmonary emphysema created by ligation of the left pulmonary artery in newborn puppies. The left pulmonary artery was ligated in 7 puppies 12 to 24 hours after birth. All were followed by periodic chest roentgenograms. At 6 months of age, ventilatory spaces, split-lung function, and static compliances were determined. Bronchograms and arteriograms were obtained, and histopathology was studied. All animals demonstrated a decrease in left lung size with gross and microscopic changes typical of chronic emphysema. There was impressive bronchial artery hypertrophy. Oxygen consumption and static compliances in the left lungs were depressed. These marked alterations in maturation, as well as the degenerative changes, are believed to be related to an impairment in the nutritive circulation of the lung.", "PMID": 453973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10903", "title": "Systemic air embolization from penetrating lung injury.", "content": "This study evaluates the role of increased intratracheal pressure in developing systemic air embolization. Twenty healthy mongrel dogs were monitored for air embolization, both by means of an extracorporeal arteriovenous shunt constructed from transparent plastic tubing for visualization of air emboli and by means of a Doppler flow probe implanted at the root of the aorta. Systemic arterial, left atrial, intratracheal, and intrapleural pressures were recorded. In 10 of the dogs, a penetrating wound of the lung 1 cm wide by 4 cm deep was produced; in 5 the chest was left open and in 5 the chest was closed. The remaining 10 dogs served as controls (with no wound of the lung); in 5 the chest was left open and in the other 5 the chest was closed. No air embolization occurred in any animals at intratracheal pressures less than 65 mm Hg. However, systemic air embolization occurred in every dog in all groups upon hyperinflation of the lung above 65 mm Hg. The control groups differed from the groups with penetrating wound only in the quantity of embolized air. This study suggests that hyperinflation of the lung to an intratracheal pressure above 65 mm Hg results in systemic air embolization and that the presence of a penetrating wound of the lung at such intratracheal pressure predisposes to a greater quantity of air embolization.", "contents": "Systemic air embolization from penetrating lung injury. This study evaluates the role of increased intratracheal pressure in developing systemic air embolization. Twenty healthy mongrel dogs were monitored for air embolization, both by means of an extracorporeal arteriovenous shunt constructed from transparent plastic tubing for visualization of air emboli and by means of a Doppler flow probe implanted at the root of the aorta. Systemic arterial, left atrial, intratracheal, and intrapleural pressures were recorded. In 10 of the dogs, a penetrating wound of the lung 1 cm wide by 4 cm deep was produced; in 5 the chest was left open and in 5 the chest was closed. The remaining 10 dogs served as controls (with no wound of the lung); in 5 the chest was left open and in the other 5 the chest was closed. No air embolization occurred in any animals at intratracheal pressures less than 65 mm Hg. However, systemic air embolization occurred in every dog in all groups upon hyperinflation of the lung above 65 mm Hg. The control groups differed from the groups with penetrating wound only in the quantity of embolized air. This study suggests that hyperinflation of the lung to an intratracheal pressure above 65 mm Hg results in systemic air embolization and that the presence of a penetrating wound of the lung at such intratracheal pressure predisposes to a greater quantity of air embolization.", "PMID": 453974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10904", "title": "Segmental resection for bronchogenic carcinoma: a surgical alternative for the compromised patient.", "content": "Over a twenty-year period, 44 patients with peripheral bronchogenic carcinoma who were unable to tolerate major pulmonary resection underwent segmentectomy as an alternative to nonoperative management. There were 2 immediate postoperative deaths. Of 31 patients eligible, 36% survived five years, and the mean survival time approached four years. Excluding those patients with undifferentiated small cell carcinoma, segmental resection in this compromised group offered a good chance for cure while providing reasonable palliation, and this procedure should be considered as a surgical option to other modalities of treatment commonly offered to these individuals.", "contents": "Segmental resection for bronchogenic carcinoma: a surgical alternative for the compromised patient. Over a twenty-year period, 44 patients with peripheral bronchogenic carcinoma who were unable to tolerate major pulmonary resection underwent segmentectomy as an alternative to nonoperative management. There were 2 immediate postoperative deaths. Of 31 patients eligible, 36% survived five years, and the mean survival time approached four years. Excluding those patients with undifferentiated small cell carcinoma, segmental resection in this compromised group offered a good chance for cure while providing reasonable palliation, and this procedure should be considered as a surgical option to other modalities of treatment commonly offered to these individuals.", "PMID": 453975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10905", "title": "Changes in the manufacture of expanded microporous polytetrafluoroethylene: effects on patency and histological behavior when used to replace the superior vena cava.", "content": "Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has been used clinically and experimentally as a vein substitute. Since its introduction, changes have been made in the manufacture of the material. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of pore size (fibril length), PTFE cover, and spiral tube support on long-term patency and histological behavior when this material is used as a replacement for the precava in the dog. A graft of 30-mu pore size has adequate fibroblastic ingrowth, a neointima of 200 mu or less, and the best long-term patency. The PTFE cover results in less fibroblastic involvement of the prosthetic graft and prevents late occlusion caused by transmural fibrosis in the 90-mu graft. The spiral support does not affect patency and may be indicated when external pressure on the tube must be avoided.", "contents": "Changes in the manufacture of expanded microporous polytetrafluoroethylene: effects on patency and histological behavior when used to replace the superior vena cava. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has been used clinically and experimentally as a vein substitute. Since its introduction, changes have been made in the manufacture of the material. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of pore size (fibril length), PTFE cover, and spiral tube support on long-term patency and histological behavior when this material is used as a replacement for the precava in the dog. A graft of 30-mu pore size has adequate fibroblastic ingrowth, a neointima of 200 mu or less, and the best long-term patency. The PTFE cover results in less fibroblastic involvement of the prosthetic graft and prevents late occlusion caused by transmural fibrosis in the 90-mu graft. The spiral support does not affect patency and may be indicated when external pressure on the tube must be avoided.", "PMID": 453976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10906", "title": "Structure-related thrombosis involving a porcine xenograft valve.", "content": "A patient developed acute congestive heart failure following chordal rupture and underwent mitral valve replacement with a porcine xenograft. He recovered adequate hemodynamic function but died one month later with widespread bronchopneumonia. Postmortem examination revealed a prominent muscular shelf in the right coronary leaflet of the xenograft, and focal thrombosis involving the adjacent sewing ring and left atrial wall. The location of the thrombus suggests that it formed as a result of local stasis behind the large muscular shelf. Limiting the size of this muscular shelf by valve selection and construction may reduce the thrombogenicity of this prosthesis.", "contents": "Structure-related thrombosis involving a porcine xenograft valve. A patient developed acute congestive heart failure following chordal rupture and underwent mitral valve replacement with a porcine xenograft. He recovered adequate hemodynamic function but died one month later with widespread bronchopneumonia. Postmortem examination revealed a prominent muscular shelf in the right coronary leaflet of the xenograft, and focal thrombosis involving the adjacent sewing ring and left atrial wall. The location of the thrombus suggests that it formed as a result of local stasis behind the large muscular shelf. Limiting the size of this muscular shelf by valve selection and construction may reduce the thrombogenicity of this prosthesis.", "PMID": 453979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10907", "title": "Prospective randomized evaluation of intrathoracic intercostal nerve block with bupivacaine on postoperative ventilatory function.", "content": "This prospective and randomized study demonstrates the beneficial effect of intrathoracic intercostal block with bupivacaine on the recovery of pulmonary function after thoracotomy. A significantly (p less than 0.05) better forced expiratory volume was seen in the treated group in the early post-operative period. Similar findings were observed in forced vital capacity. Also, the requirements for analgesics were decreased in the treated group. We believe that intrathoracic intercostal block with bupivacaine when properly utilized can be a good adjuvant in the improvement of pulmonary function after thoracotomy.", "contents": "Prospective randomized evaluation of intrathoracic intercostal nerve block with bupivacaine on postoperative ventilatory function. This prospective and randomized study demonstrates the beneficial effect of intrathoracic intercostal block with bupivacaine on the recovery of pulmonary function after thoracotomy. A significantly (p less than 0.05) better forced expiratory volume was seen in the treated group in the early post-operative period. Similar findings were observed in forced vital capacity. Also, the requirements for analgesics were decreased in the treated group. We believe that intrathoracic intercostal block with bupivacaine when properly utilized can be a good adjuvant in the improvement of pulmonary function after thoracotomy.", "PMID": 453982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10908", "title": "Pulmonary reperfusion syndrome.", "content": "\"Reperfusion syndrome\" of the lung may play a role in the pulmonary edema and hemorrhage that occur following pulmonary embolectomy, cardiopulmonary bypass, and shock. Bioenergetic, metabolic, and ultrastructural studies of canine lungs indicate that ventilated lung tissue could tolerate 5 hours of pulmonary arterial occlusion with minimal damage. However, a 24-hour interruption of pulmonary arterial blood flow produced a significant decrease in the ratio of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine disphosphate, and glycogen, and an increase in tissue lactate. Reperfusion of these lungs resulted in even more pronounced biochemical and ultrastructural deterioration, as well as gross pulmonary edema and hemorrhage. The lesion appears to be similar to the reperfusion damage that occurs in other organs, such as the kidney, and the skeletal and cardiac muscles.", "contents": "Pulmonary reperfusion syndrome. \"Reperfusion syndrome\" of the lung may play a role in the pulmonary edema and hemorrhage that occur following pulmonary embolectomy, cardiopulmonary bypass, and shock. Bioenergetic, metabolic, and ultrastructural studies of canine lungs indicate that ventilated lung tissue could tolerate 5 hours of pulmonary arterial occlusion with minimal damage. However, a 24-hour interruption of pulmonary arterial blood flow produced a significant decrease in the ratio of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine disphosphate, and glycogen, and an increase in tissue lactate. Reperfusion of these lungs resulted in even more pronounced biochemical and ultrastructural deterioration, as well as gross pulmonary edema and hemorrhage. The lesion appears to be similar to the reperfusion damage that occurs in other organs, such as the kidney, and the skeletal and cardiac muscles.", "PMID": 453983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10909", "title": "Pulmonary artery banding: long-term results in 63 patients.", "content": "Sixty-three patients who underwent banding of the pulmonary artery between 1968 and 1975 were studied. Mortality among patients who underwent the banding procedure was 22%, and among those with ventricular septal defect it was 7%. Thirty-eight of the 49 survivors of the banding procedure were investigated for abnormalities of the pulmonary outflow tract caused by the band. Seventy-one percent of these 38 patients had an identifiable abnormality of the pulmonary valve or artery. These complications occurred more frequently in patients banded at a very young age (less than 2 months old) and in patients in whom the band was in place more than two years. Corrective operations have been performed in 24 of the 49 patients who survived banding. Seventy-six percent of the patients with ventricular septal defect survived corrective operation, while only 29% of the patients with more complex lesions survived.", "contents": "Pulmonary artery banding: long-term results in 63 patients. Sixty-three patients who underwent banding of the pulmonary artery between 1968 and 1975 were studied. Mortality among patients who underwent the banding procedure was 22%, and among those with ventricular septal defect it was 7%. Thirty-eight of the 49 survivors of the banding procedure were investigated for abnormalities of the pulmonary outflow tract caused by the band. Seventy-one percent of these 38 patients had an identifiable abnormality of the pulmonary valve or artery. These complications occurred more frequently in patients banded at a very young age (less than 2 months old) and in patients in whom the band was in place more than two years. Corrective operations have been performed in 24 of the 49 patients who survived banding. Seventy-six percent of the patients with ventricular septal defect survived corrective operation, while only 29% of the patients with more complex lesions survived.", "PMID": 453984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10910", "title": "Ventricular fibrillation during cardiopulmonary bypass: long-term effects on myocardial morphology and function.", "content": "Mongrel dogs were subjected to hypothermic (28 degrees to 30 degrees C) cardiopulmonary bypass with hemodilution by 50%. In two groups of 8 dogs each, ventricular fibrillation was induced for 60 and 90 minutes, respectively, while the dogs were on bypass. A group of 6 dogs with the heart beating but nonworking served as control. Seven weeks after operation, hemodynamic measurements were made in the survivors (6 in each group) and the heart was fixed by perfusion with glutaraldehyde. Multiple transmural samples were taken from both ventricles. Light microscopy revealed solitary left ventricular scars (0.5 to 3 mm wide) in 2 hearts each from Groups 2 and 3. None of the hearts exhibited diffuse subendocardial fibrosis indicative of healed ischemic injury. All animals were hemodynamically normal. We conclude that in the nonhypertrophied heart, ventricular fibrillation up to 90 minutes with continuous bypass-sustained coronary perfusion (perfusion pressure at or above 70 mm Hg) offers protection from permanent myocardial injury.", "contents": "Ventricular fibrillation during cardiopulmonary bypass: long-term effects on myocardial morphology and function. Mongrel dogs were subjected to hypothermic (28 degrees to 30 degrees C) cardiopulmonary bypass with hemodilution by 50%. In two groups of 8 dogs each, ventricular fibrillation was induced for 60 and 90 minutes, respectively, while the dogs were on bypass. A group of 6 dogs with the heart beating but nonworking served as control. Seven weeks after operation, hemodynamic measurements were made in the survivors (6 in each group) and the heart was fixed by perfusion with glutaraldehyde. Multiple transmural samples were taken from both ventricles. Light microscopy revealed solitary left ventricular scars (0.5 to 3 mm wide) in 2 hearts each from Groups 2 and 3. None of the hearts exhibited diffuse subendocardial fibrosis indicative of healed ischemic injury. All animals were hemodynamically normal. We conclude that in the nonhypertrophied heart, ventricular fibrillation up to 90 minutes with continuous bypass-sustained coronary perfusion (perfusion pressure at or above 70 mm Hg) offers protection from permanent myocardial injury.", "PMID": 453985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10911", "title": "Bronchogenic carcinoma with a brain metastasis: a continuing challenge.", "content": "Twenty-three patients with carcinoma of the lung and a brain metastasis had both the primary and secondary tumors surgically removed (combined operation). Results revealed that 52% of the patients were unimproved and died during the first 6 months. Operation improved short-term survival in 26%. Five patients (22%) lived longer than 2 years, and 3 of them (13%) are alive and well 10 or more years following operation.", "contents": "Bronchogenic carcinoma with a brain metastasis: a continuing challenge. Twenty-three patients with carcinoma of the lung and a brain metastasis had both the primary and secondary tumors surgically removed (combined operation). Results revealed that 52% of the patients were unimproved and died during the first 6 months. Operation improved short-term survival in 26%. Five patients (22%) lived longer than 2 years, and 3 of them (13%) are alive and well 10 or more years following operation.", "PMID": 453986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10912", "title": "Pulmonary metastatic chondrosarcoma with intracardiac extension.", "content": "An unusual case of pulmonary metastatic chondrosarcoma with intracardiac extension is presented. Echocardiography and right heart catheterization with pulmonary angiography demonstrated that resection using cardiopulmonary bypass was possible in a situation initially considered to be inoperable.", "contents": "Pulmonary metastatic chondrosarcoma with intracardiac extension. An unusual case of pulmonary metastatic chondrosarcoma with intracardiac extension is presented. Echocardiography and right heart catheterization with pulmonary angiography demonstrated that resection using cardiopulmonary bypass was possible in a situation initially considered to be inoperable.", "PMID": 453987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10913", "title": "Operative correction of total left anomalous pulmonary venous return.", "content": "The evaluation, surgical repair, and follow-up are described in an asymptomatic 27-year-old man with unilateral total anomalous pulmonary venous return from the left lung through an innominate vein and a patent foramen ovale. The anomalous vein was divided and anastomosed directly to the left atrium using a vascular technique that produced an orifice larger than the vein diameter. Radionuclide scanning accurately identified the anomaly before operation and allows periodic noninvasive reevaluation after operation. Correction is recommended in all patients with unilateral anomalous pulmonary venous return because disease in the one normal lung could be fatal.", "contents": "Operative correction of total left anomalous pulmonary venous return. The evaluation, surgical repair, and follow-up are described in an asymptomatic 27-year-old man with unilateral total anomalous pulmonary venous return from the left lung through an innominate vein and a patent foramen ovale. The anomalous vein was divided and anastomosed directly to the left atrium using a vascular technique that produced an orifice larger than the vein diameter. Radionuclide scanning accurately identified the anomaly before operation and allows periodic noninvasive reevaluation after operation. Correction is recommended in all patients with unilateral anomalous pulmonary venous return because disease in the one normal lung could be fatal.", "PMID": 453989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10914", "title": "Repair of divided anomalous anterior descending coronary artery in tetralogy of Fallot.", "content": "Coronary artery anomalies in tetralogy of Fallot have often compromised surgical repair and imposed an increased mortality rate. Thus accidental division of the anterior descending coronary artery crossing the right outflow tract has previously usually resulted in death. The case is presented of a 13-year-old boy with tetralogy of Fallot in whom the anomalous left anterior descending coronary artery was divided. The blood supply to the left anterior descending artery was successfully restored using a reversed saphenous vein graft.", "contents": "Repair of divided anomalous anterior descending coronary artery in tetralogy of Fallot. Coronary artery anomalies in tetralogy of Fallot have often compromised surgical repair and imposed an increased mortality rate. Thus accidental division of the anterior descending coronary artery crossing the right outflow tract has previously usually resulted in death. The case is presented of a 13-year-old boy with tetralogy of Fallot in whom the anomalous left anterior descending coronary artery was divided. The blood supply to the left anterior descending artery was successfully restored using a reversed saphenous vein graft.", "PMID": 453990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10915", "title": "Cardiac pacing.", "content": "The basic electrophysiology of temporary and permanent cardiac pacing is reviewed, as are the indications, the types of pacing systems, and the methods of implantation. Recent developments in power sources and leads are described. The mercury-zinc battery is now obsolete and is being replaced by lithium, rechargeable, and isotopic power systems. While ventricular pacing continues to be the standard, a brief review of atrial programmed systems is given, including atrial pacing and atrioventricular synchronized and atrioventricular sequential pacing. Conventional pacing is aimed at the control of symptomatic bradycardia. Brief reference is made to experimental pacing systems designed to control ventricular or supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.", "contents": "Cardiac pacing. The basic electrophysiology of temporary and permanent cardiac pacing is reviewed, as are the indications, the types of pacing systems, and the methods of implantation. Recent developments in power sources and leads are described. The mercury-zinc battery is now obsolete and is being replaced by lithium, rechargeable, and isotopic power systems. While ventricular pacing continues to be the standard, a brief review of atrial programmed systems is given, including atrial pacing and atrioventricular synchronized and atrioventricular sequential pacing. Conventional pacing is aimed at the control of symptomatic bradycardia. Brief reference is made to experimental pacing systems designed to control ventricular or supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.", "PMID": 453992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10916", "title": "The role of thoracotomy in the management of pulmonary metastases from malignant melanoma.", "content": "Thirty-three patients over a 21-year period underwent thoracotomy for resection of suspected pulmonary metastases from malignant melanoma. Eleven patients were found to have nonmalignant disease (Group 1); 10 were found to have unresectable disease (Group 2); and 12 were rendered disease-free (Group 3). Of the patients found to have melanoma, 20 of 22 received post-operative chemotherapy. The median survival of the patients in Group 2 was 10.5 months (3 to 20 months); in Group 3 it was 12 months (3 to 35 months). There were no 5-year survivors. No factors distinguished the three groups preoperatively. Surgical resection still offers the greatest chance for long-term survival, based on reports of patients in the literature who have survived longer than 5 years following resection of pulmonary metastases from melanoma. Thoracotomy is especially useful for staging purposes in those patients found to have no metastatic disease.", "contents": "The role of thoracotomy in the management of pulmonary metastases from malignant melanoma. Thirty-three patients over a 21-year period underwent thoracotomy for resection of suspected pulmonary metastases from malignant melanoma. Eleven patients were found to have nonmalignant disease (Group 1); 10 were found to have unresectable disease (Group 2); and 12 were rendered disease-free (Group 3). Of the patients found to have melanoma, 20 of 22 received post-operative chemotherapy. The median survival of the patients in Group 2 was 10.5 months (3 to 20 months); in Group 3 it was 12 months (3 to 35 months). There were no 5-year survivors. No factors distinguished the three groups preoperatively. Surgical resection still offers the greatest chance for long-term survival, based on reports of patients in the literature who have survived longer than 5 years following resection of pulmonary metastases from melanoma. Thoracotomy is especially useful for staging purposes in those patients found to have no metastatic disease.", "PMID": 453996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10917", "title": "Bone scanning in the evaluation of patients with lung cancer.", "content": "Sixty patients suspected of having lung cancer were evaluated for bone metastasis by means of technetium 99m stannous-polyphosphate bone scanning and correlative radiographic bone survey. Diagnosis of lung cancer was histologically proved in all patients. Scans demonstrated evidence of bone metastasis in 20 patients (33.4%) and radiographs, in 10 patients (16.6%). Twenty-four patients had repeat skeletal evaluation at one to eleven months after the first study. Of these patients, 7 initially demonstrating both negative scans and radiographs showed abnormal scans within five months. Bone scans correlated with radiographs in 53.3% and with accompanying bone pain in 33.3% of patients. False negative and false equivocal results were noted in 4 patients. This study suggests that bone scanning with 99mTc stannous-polyphosphate detected early bone metastasis in patients with lung cancer before these lesions became evident clinically or radiographically. Bone scanning is of value during the initial evaluation to determine operability in patients with lung cancer.", "contents": "Bone scanning in the evaluation of patients with lung cancer. Sixty patients suspected of having lung cancer were evaluated for bone metastasis by means of technetium 99m stannous-polyphosphate bone scanning and correlative radiographic bone survey. Diagnosis of lung cancer was histologically proved in all patients. Scans demonstrated evidence of bone metastasis in 20 patients (33.4%) and radiographs, in 10 patients (16.6%). Twenty-four patients had repeat skeletal evaluation at one to eleven months after the first study. Of these patients, 7 initially demonstrating both negative scans and radiographs showed abnormal scans within five months. Bone scans correlated with radiographs in 53.3% and with accompanying bone pain in 33.3% of patients. False negative and false equivocal results were noted in 4 patients. This study suggests that bone scanning with 99mTc stannous-polyphosphate detected early bone metastasis in patients with lung cancer before these lesions became evident clinically or radiographically. Bone scanning is of value during the initial evaluation to determine operability in patients with lung cancer.", "PMID": 453997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10918", "title": "The use of computed tomography to evaluate suspected mediastinal tumors.", "content": "Thirty patients with suspected mediastinal tumors were evaluated by computed tomography (CT) at UCLA Medical Center. Twenty patients with myasthenia gravis were examined for possible thymomas, benign and malignant; and 10 patients were studied for other mediastinal masses (including teratoma, seminoma, mediastinal lipomatosis, carcinoma, lymphoma, and paravertebral abscess). The CT scan was found useful in several respects: (1) yielding information not available by conventional radiographic techniques; (2) defining the anatomical location and extent of mediastinal tumors; (3) detecting pulmonary metastasis and involvement of mediastinal nodes in cases of malignancy; and (4) establishing the diagnosis of benign mediastinal fatty masses. On the basis of our early experience, we believe CT is a valuable adjunct in the preoperative assessment of patients with suspected mediastinal tumors.", "contents": "The use of computed tomography to evaluate suspected mediastinal tumors. Thirty patients with suspected mediastinal tumors were evaluated by computed tomography (CT) at UCLA Medical Center. Twenty patients with myasthenia gravis were examined for possible thymomas, benign and malignant; and 10 patients were studied for other mediastinal masses (including teratoma, seminoma, mediastinal lipomatosis, carcinoma, lymphoma, and paravertebral abscess). The CT scan was found useful in several respects: (1) yielding information not available by conventional radiographic techniques; (2) defining the anatomical location and extent of mediastinal tumors; (3) detecting pulmonary metastasis and involvement of mediastinal nodes in cases of malignancy; and (4) establishing the diagnosis of benign mediastinal fatty masses. On the basis of our early experience, we believe CT is a valuable adjunct in the preoperative assessment of patients with suspected mediastinal tumors.", "PMID": 453998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10919", "title": "Mitral valve replacement: a nine-year follow-up of risks and survivals.", "content": "Experience with mitral valve replacement over a nine-year period is reviewed. Hospital mortality was 8.9%, with an additional late mortality of 18.5% during a mean follow-up period of 4.34 years. Study of the factors influencing the results of valve replacement revealed a direct correlation between long-term survival and New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class, as judged preoperatively, as well as left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, cardiac index, type of valve lesion, and presence of associated coronary artery disease. Hospital mortality was 32% (p less than 0.01) for those patients in NYHA Functional Class IV before operation, compared with 3% for Class III patients. Untreated concomitant coronary artery disease was associated with a significantly higher perioperative mortality of 28% (p = 0.002) compared with an 8% mortality in patients with coronary artery disease treated by vein bypass at the time of mitral valve replacement. Patients with normal coronary arteries documented angiographically before operation had a 1% hospital mortality. Seventy-two percent of all patients are still alive at a maximum follow-up of nine years. Eighty-three percent of those survivors who were in Functional Class III or IV before operation are now considered to be in Class I or II. We conclude that patients should undergo mitral valve replacement before the development of the advanced functional stage of valve disease. In addition, coronary arteriograms should be performed on all patients who are more than 40 years old at the time of cardiac catheterization, and revascularization considered at the time of mitral valve replacement for those patients with significant coronary disease.", "contents": "Mitral valve replacement: a nine-year follow-up of risks and survivals. Experience with mitral valve replacement over a nine-year period is reviewed. Hospital mortality was 8.9%, with an additional late mortality of 18.5% during a mean follow-up period of 4.34 years. Study of the factors influencing the results of valve replacement revealed a direct correlation between long-term survival and New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class, as judged preoperatively, as well as left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, cardiac index, type of valve lesion, and presence of associated coronary artery disease. Hospital mortality was 32% (p less than 0.01) for those patients in NYHA Functional Class IV before operation, compared with 3% for Class III patients. Untreated concomitant coronary artery disease was associated with a significantly higher perioperative mortality of 28% (p = 0.002) compared with an 8% mortality in patients with coronary artery disease treated by vein bypass at the time of mitral valve replacement. Patients with normal coronary arteries documented angiographically before operation had a 1% hospital mortality. Seventy-two percent of all patients are still alive at a maximum follow-up of nine years. Eighty-three percent of those survivors who were in Functional Class III or IV before operation are now considered to be in Class I or II. We conclude that patients should undergo mitral valve replacement before the development of the advanced functional stage of valve disease. In addition, coronary arteriograms should be performed on all patients who are more than 40 years old at the time of cardiac catheterization, and revascularization considered at the time of mitral valve replacement for those patients with significant coronary disease.", "PMID": 453999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10920", "title": "Combined multiple-valve procedures: a five-year experience with 125 patients.", "content": "One hundred twenty-five patients underwent 128 operations for combined multiple-valve procedures, with an overall early mortality of 16%. Highest mortality was associated with mitral and tricuspid valve disease (28.5%), followed by triple-valve disease (18.2%) and aortic and mitral valve disease (14%). Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, cardiac index, mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary artery wedge pressure, and arteriovenous oxygen difference were all significantly different in patients with regard to early mortality. Late follow-up of 94% has been achieved in 105 early survivors, with a late mortality rate of 11.2%. Analysis of late functional results reveal that 85% of survivors improved at least one Functional Class. Actuarial 5-year survival of 75% was achieved for early survivors of operation.", "contents": "Combined multiple-valve procedures: a five-year experience with 125 patients. One hundred twenty-five patients underwent 128 operations for combined multiple-valve procedures, with an overall early mortality of 16%. Highest mortality was associated with mitral and tricuspid valve disease (28.5%), followed by triple-valve disease (18.2%) and aortic and mitral valve disease (14%). Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, cardiac index, mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary artery wedge pressure, and arteriovenous oxygen difference were all significantly different in patients with regard to early mortality. Late follow-up of 94% has been achieved in 105 early survivors, with a late mortality rate of 11.2%. Analysis of late functional results reveal that 85% of survivors improved at least one Functional Class. Actuarial 5-year survival of 75% was achieved for early survivors of operation.", "PMID": 454000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10921", "title": "Reoperation for coronary graft failure: clinical and angiographic results in 43 patients.", "content": "Reoperation because of early or late coronary graft failure was performed in 43 patients who were part of a group of 1,985 patients operated on for coronary artery disease and followed for up to 7 years. Considerable variation in the results was noted depending on whether the patients were symptomatic or not before reoperation. Of the symptomatic patients, 85% were asymptomatic late (30 months) after reoperation whereas of those patients reoperated on despite the apparent lack of symptoms, 71.5% remained free from angina later on. Moreover, patency rate was high (94.4% or 17/18 grafts) in the first group and much lower (38.4% or 5/13 grafts) in those reoperated on solely on the basis of an early angiogram showing malfunctioning grafts. Patency rate was higher when the graft was totally replaced (92.3% or 12/13 restudied) rather than repaired simply through interposition of a segment of vein (37.5% or 3/8). It is apparent that results of reoperation in symptomatic patients are identical to those of an initial revascularization. On the other hand, patients who are asymptomatic despite early evidence of malfunctioning grafts should be reoperated on only when optimal angiographic conditions are present, that is, a coronary artery that is a good size, severely narrowed, and supplying a large myocardial area.", "contents": "Reoperation for coronary graft failure: clinical and angiographic results in 43 patients. Reoperation because of early or late coronary graft failure was performed in 43 patients who were part of a group of 1,985 patients operated on for coronary artery disease and followed for up to 7 years. Considerable variation in the results was noted depending on whether the patients were symptomatic or not before reoperation. Of the symptomatic patients, 85% were asymptomatic late (30 months) after reoperation whereas of those patients reoperated on despite the apparent lack of symptoms, 71.5% remained free from angina later on. Moreover, patency rate was high (94.4% or 17/18 grafts) in the first group and much lower (38.4% or 5/13 grafts) in those reoperated on solely on the basis of an early angiogram showing malfunctioning grafts. Patency rate was higher when the graft was totally replaced (92.3% or 12/13 restudied) rather than repaired simply through interposition of a segment of vein (37.5% or 3/8). It is apparent that results of reoperation in symptomatic patients are identical to those of an initial revascularization. On the other hand, patients who are asymptomatic despite early evidence of malfunctioning grafts should be reoperated on only when optimal angiographic conditions are present, that is, a coronary artery that is a good size, severely narrowed, and supplying a large myocardial area.", "PMID": 454001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10922", "title": "Acquired supravalvular aortic stenosis.", "content": "Severe supravalvular aortic stenosis was discovered at reoperation in 3 children with recurrent stenosis of the left ventricular outflow tract. The lesion consisted of gross thickening of the sinus ridge, most marked at the site of the previous aortotomy. The thickening had shortened the free edge of one or more leaflets and had distorted adjacent commissures. Preoperative angiography had indicated valve stenosis, but little commissural fusion was found at operation and the outflow tract obstruction was relieved by inserting a prosthetic patch in the ascending aorta. Recognition of this iatrogenic pathology is important to avoid supravalvular stenosis after aortic valvotomy and unnecessary valve replacement in children requiring reoperation for recurrent left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.", "contents": "Acquired supravalvular aortic stenosis. Severe supravalvular aortic stenosis was discovered at reoperation in 3 children with recurrent stenosis of the left ventricular outflow tract. The lesion consisted of gross thickening of the sinus ridge, most marked at the site of the previous aortotomy. The thickening had shortened the free edge of one or more leaflets and had distorted adjacent commissures. Preoperative angiography had indicated valve stenosis, but little commissural fusion was found at operation and the outflow tract obstruction was relieved by inserting a prosthetic patch in the ascending aorta. Recognition of this iatrogenic pathology is important to avoid supravalvular stenosis after aortic valvotomy and unnecessary valve replacement in children requiring reoperation for recurrent left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.", "PMID": 454002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10923", "title": "Giant left atrial V-waves in post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect.", "content": "A 54-year-old man developed a post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect with a 4:1 shunt. The first cardiac catheterization showed left atrial V-waves of 70 mm Hg. Assessment of the presence or absence of mitral regurgitation was not possible because of ventricular irritability and rapid runoff from left ventricle to right ventricle. At the second catheterization two months later, the left atrial V-waves had fallen to 34 mm Hg. The absence of mitral regurgitation was shown by observing the time difference in appearance of indocyanine green in the right ventricle and the left atrium after left ventricular injection. The defect was repaired by right ventriculotomy with subsequent normalization of left atrial V-waves. This case shows that very large left atrial V-waves may occur in postinfarction ventricular septal defects without mitral regurgitation and that these V-waves may decrease with time, probably reflecting increased left atrial compliance.", "contents": "Giant left atrial V-waves in post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect. A 54-year-old man developed a post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect with a 4:1 shunt. The first cardiac catheterization showed left atrial V-waves of 70 mm Hg. Assessment of the presence or absence of mitral regurgitation was not possible because of ventricular irritability and rapid runoff from left ventricle to right ventricle. At the second catheterization two months later, the left atrial V-waves had fallen to 34 mm Hg. The absence of mitral regurgitation was shown by observing the time difference in appearance of indocyanine green in the right ventricle and the left atrium after left ventricular injection. The defect was repaired by right ventriculotomy with subsequent normalization of left atrial V-waves. This case shows that very large left atrial V-waves may occur in postinfarction ventricular septal defects without mitral regurgitation and that these V-waves may decrease with time, probably reflecting increased left atrial compliance.", "PMID": 454003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10924", "title": "Annular subvalvular idiopathic left ventricular aneurysms in the black African.", "content": "The case of a Black African patient with an annular subvalvular left ventricular aneurysm of unknown origin is described, and the pathological findings in this condition together with a review of the literature is presented. We have operated on 12 patients with this condition between 1958 and 1978. Ventricular aneurysm in the Black African is extremely rare; aneurysms resulting from ischemic heart disease have not been encountered in this racial group, and contrary to earlier reports in the literature, syphilis is not the most common cause of left ventricular aneurysms in this group. The aneurysms arise in the fibrous rings below either the aortic or the mitral valve, extend around the valves in this situation, and may occur either singly or in both positions in the same heart. After various etiological factors are excluded, it is probable that in this group of patients the aneurysms develop initially as pulsion diverticula through a congenital weakness in the ventricular wall in the region of the atrioventricular groove.", "contents": "Annular subvalvular idiopathic left ventricular aneurysms in the black African. The case of a Black African patient with an annular subvalvular left ventricular aneurysm of unknown origin is described, and the pathological findings in this condition together with a review of the literature is presented. We have operated on 12 patients with this condition between 1958 and 1978. Ventricular aneurysm in the Black African is extremely rare; aneurysms resulting from ischemic heart disease have not been encountered in this racial group, and contrary to earlier reports in the literature, syphilis is not the most common cause of left ventricular aneurysms in this group. The aneurysms arise in the fibrous rings below either the aortic or the mitral valve, extend around the valves in this situation, and may occur either singly or in both positions in the same heart. After various etiological factors are excluded, it is probable that in this group of patients the aneurysms develop initially as pulsion diverticula through a congenital weakness in the ventricular wall in the region of the atrioventricular groove.", "PMID": 454004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10925", "title": "Massive hyperplastic thymus in a 22-month-old infant.", "content": "Huge mediastinal masses in infants are often difficult to diagnose, and thymic enlargement must be considered in each instance, especially when the mass is located anteriorly. In the patient reported on here, the mass occupied approximately 60% of the chest cavity, and surgical intervention was required to establish the precise histological diagnosis. This proved to be massive hyperplastic thymus.", "contents": "Massive hyperplastic thymus in a 22-month-old infant. Huge mediastinal masses in infants are often difficult to diagnose, and thymic enlargement must be considered in each instance, especially when the mass is located anteriorly. In the patient reported on here, the mass occupied approximately 60% of the chest cavity, and surgical intervention was required to establish the precise histological diagnosis. This proved to be massive hyperplastic thymus.", "PMID": 454005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10926", "title": "Digital injury using the sternum perforating awl.", "content": "Closure of the median sternotomy incision using stainless steel wires passed through the tip of a sternum-perforating awl is a common procedure. Digital injury can result should the awl shaft suddenly snap during sternal penetration. Sheathing the shaft with a plastic guard will prevent injury when this occurs.", "contents": "Digital injury using the sternum perforating awl. Closure of the median sternotomy incision using stainless steel wires passed through the tip of a sternum-perforating awl is a common procedure. Digital injury can result should the awl shaft suddenly snap during sternal penetration. Sheathing the shaft with a plastic guard will prevent injury when this occurs.", "PMID": 454008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10927", "title": "Pull-through esophagectomy without thoracotomy for esophageal carcinoma.", "content": "Seventeen consecutive patients underwent pull-through esophagectomy using blunt dissection from laparotomy and cervical incisions for carcinoma of the esophagus. Fifteen patients had a middle-third lesion while 2 patients had a distal-third lesion. The gastrointestinal tract was reconstructed using primary gastroesophagostomy in 15 patients and colon interposition in 2. Both the colon and stomach were placed through the posterior mediastinum. The surgical technique and results are described in detail. There were two major complications. One patient died of massive gastric hemorrhage on the eighth postoperative day in spite of emergency operation. Another patient sustained a tear of the membranous trachea at the time of blunt dissection. This was repaired through a right thoracotomy without difficulty. Esophagectomy using blunt dissection offered excellent palliation and resulted in little morbidity in our series. The shortened operating time, minimal blood loss, total lack of postoperative chest pain, minimal pulmonary complications, and the benefit of a cervical anastomosis are several advantages compared with the present surgical approaches.", "contents": "Pull-through esophagectomy without thoracotomy for esophageal carcinoma. Seventeen consecutive patients underwent pull-through esophagectomy using blunt dissection from laparotomy and cervical incisions for carcinoma of the esophagus. Fifteen patients had a middle-third lesion while 2 patients had a distal-third lesion. The gastrointestinal tract was reconstructed using primary gastroesophagostomy in 15 patients and colon interposition in 2. Both the colon and stomach were placed through the posterior mediastinum. The surgical technique and results are described in detail. There were two major complications. One patient died of massive gastric hemorrhage on the eighth postoperative day in spite of emergency operation. Another patient sustained a tear of the membranous trachea at the time of blunt dissection. This was repaired through a right thoracotomy without difficulty. Esophagectomy using blunt dissection offered excellent palliation and resulted in little morbidity in our series. The shortened operating time, minimal blood loss, total lack of postoperative chest pain, minimal pulmonary complications, and the benefit of a cervical anastomosis are several advantages compared with the present surgical approaches.", "PMID": 454014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10928", "title": "Aorta-pulmonary artery shunts with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tube.", "content": "Ten patients underwent an aortapulmonary artery shunt with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tube between December, 1976, and October, 1977. Five of them were less than 1 month old. The diameter of the PTFE tube was 5 mm in 9 patients and 4 mm in 1 patient. Seven patients survived the operation. One of them had a clotted shunt, which was reoperated on successfully. Three patients died in the postoperative period, and all had a patent shunt. Overall patency was 90% (9/10). Congestive heart failure refractory to medical treatment developed in 1 patient with a patent Blalock-Taussig and PTFE shunt. In our institution, the Blalock-Taussig shunt is the procedure of choice. The PTFE shunt is used when the anatomy of a patient is unsuitable for a Blalock-Taussig shunt. A tube diameter of 5 mm is optimal for infants when further growth is considered, even if digitalization is necessary to control congestive heart failure.", "contents": "Aorta-pulmonary artery shunts with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tube. Ten patients underwent an aortapulmonary artery shunt with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tube between December, 1976, and October, 1977. Five of them were less than 1 month old. The diameter of the PTFE tube was 5 mm in 9 patients and 4 mm in 1 patient. Seven patients survived the operation. One of them had a clotted shunt, which was reoperated on successfully. Three patients died in the postoperative period, and all had a patent shunt. Overall patency was 90% (9/10). Congestive heart failure refractory to medical treatment developed in 1 patient with a patent Blalock-Taussig and PTFE shunt. In our institution, the Blalock-Taussig shunt is the procedure of choice. The PTFE shunt is used when the anatomy of a patient is unsuitable for a Blalock-Taussig shunt. A tube diameter of 5 mm is optimal for infants when further growth is considered, even if digitalization is necessary to control congestive heart failure.", "PMID": 454015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10929", "title": "Surgical experience with unroofed coronary sinus.", "content": "Between January, 1967, and October, 1977, we performed intracardiac repair in 24 patients with unroofed coronary sinus. Eight patients had the so-called pure form of the syndrome, with the concomitant findings of total absence of the partition between the coronary sinus and left atrium, connection of the left superior vena cava (LSVC) to the upper left corner of the left atrium, and a coronary sinus type of atrial septal defect. In 2 additional patients this combination was repaired, along with repair of the common atrium in 1 and tetralogy of Fallot in the other. In 4 patients with either a partial or complete atrioventricular canal defect, only the distal or downstream portion of the sinus was unroofed so that the coronary sinus ostium was considerably to the left of its usual location. In 6 patients, 5 of whom had situs ambiguous, the unroofed coronary sinus was associated with complex congenital heart disease, and in 5 there was a L(contralateral) SVC. Three of these 6 patients died. The basic repair consists of roofing the coronary sinus from within the left atrium, so that the LSVC drains through the newly created coronary sinus and its ostium into the right atrium. In the absence of a LSVC, the basic repair is simply closure of the coronary sinus atrial septal defect. This leaves the coronary veins draining into the left atrium.", "contents": "Surgical experience with unroofed coronary sinus. Between January, 1967, and October, 1977, we performed intracardiac repair in 24 patients with unroofed coronary sinus. Eight patients had the so-called pure form of the syndrome, with the concomitant findings of total absence of the partition between the coronary sinus and left atrium, connection of the left superior vena cava (LSVC) to the upper left corner of the left atrium, and a coronary sinus type of atrial septal defect. In 2 additional patients this combination was repaired, along with repair of the common atrium in 1 and tetralogy of Fallot in the other. In 4 patients with either a partial or complete atrioventricular canal defect, only the distal or downstream portion of the sinus was unroofed so that the coronary sinus ostium was considerably to the left of its usual location. In 6 patients, 5 of whom had situs ambiguous, the unroofed coronary sinus was associated with complex congenital heart disease, and in 5 there was a L(contralateral) SVC. Three of these 6 patients died. The basic repair consists of roofing the coronary sinus from within the left atrium, so that the LSVC drains through the newly created coronary sinus and its ostium into the right atrium. In the absence of a LSVC, the basic repair is simply closure of the coronary sinus atrial septal defect. This leaves the coronary veins draining into the left atrium.", "PMID": 454016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10930", "title": "Repair of chest wall defects with prosthetic material.", "content": "This report summarizes our experience during a four-year period with the repair of 8 thoracic cage and 3 diaphragmatic defects requiring reinforcement with prosthetic material. Defects as large as the entire left hemidiaphragm or the right anterior chest wall including ribs two through six from the midsternum to the midaxillary line were adequately repaired. The technical approach utilized to obtain a secure, nonmobile thoracic cage involved the placement of sutures through drill holes or around ribs, rather than through the periosteum or pericostal soft tissues. Successful diaphragmatic repair was dependent on proper anchoring of the medial border of the prosthesis, placing sutures in the pericardium as necessary. Skin coverage for thoracic cage defects was achieved with widely undermined and advanced local tissue or previously delayed pedicle flaps. All patients had good evidence of chest wall stabilization after operation, and all were removed from mechanical ventilation within three days. One patient died of myocardial infarction twenty days after operation, and a second patient died later of metastatic disease. On the basis of our experience, we conclude that the range of chest wall lesions that can be surgically corrected or palliated is increased by the use of prosthetics implanted with techniques described here.", "contents": "Repair of chest wall defects with prosthetic material. This report summarizes our experience during a four-year period with the repair of 8 thoracic cage and 3 diaphragmatic defects requiring reinforcement with prosthetic material. Defects as large as the entire left hemidiaphragm or the right anterior chest wall including ribs two through six from the midsternum to the midaxillary line were adequately repaired. The technical approach utilized to obtain a secure, nonmobile thoracic cage involved the placement of sutures through drill holes or around ribs, rather than through the periosteum or pericostal soft tissues. Successful diaphragmatic repair was dependent on proper anchoring of the medial border of the prosthesis, placing sutures in the pericardium as necessary. Skin coverage for thoracic cage defects was achieved with widely undermined and advanced local tissue or previously delayed pedicle flaps. All patients had good evidence of chest wall stabilization after operation, and all were removed from mechanical ventilation within three days. One patient died of myocardial infarction twenty days after operation, and a second patient died later of metastatic disease. On the basis of our experience, we conclude that the range of chest wall lesions that can be surgically corrected or palliated is increased by the use of prosthetics implanted with techniques described here.", "PMID": 454017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10931", "title": "Factors influencing better results in operation for postinfarction ventricular aneurysms.", "content": "A series of 66 consecutive patients operated on for postinfarction ventricular aneurysm is reviewed with regard to the factors influencing the progressive decline of mortality (3.2% in the last 31 patients seen). The method of myocardial protection has a significant influence on mortality, which was 45% in patients operated on with aortic cross-clamping under conventional hypothermia and 5% in patients operated on under profound local hypothermia. Associated revascularization with vein bypass graft was performed in 28 patients, without mortality. The technique of aneurysmectomy adapted to the extension and location of the fibrotic scar is described, with exclusion of the septal portion of the aneurysm in 85% of the patients. In 36 patients who had postoperative cardiac catheterization, this technique produced normal ejection fraction and near normal left ventricular volumes", "contents": "Factors influencing better results in operation for postinfarction ventricular aneurysms. A series of 66 consecutive patients operated on for postinfarction ventricular aneurysm is reviewed with regard to the factors influencing the progressive decline of mortality (3.2% in the last 31 patients seen). The method of myocardial protection has a significant influence on mortality, which was 45% in patients operated on with aortic cross-clamping under conventional hypothermia and 5% in patients operated on under profound local hypothermia. Associated revascularization with vein bypass graft was performed in 28 patients, without mortality. The technique of aneurysmectomy adapted to the extension and location of the fibrotic scar is described, with exclusion of the septal portion of the aneurysm in 85% of the patients. In 36 patients who had postoperative cardiac catheterization, this technique produced normal ejection fraction and near normal left ventricular volumes", "PMID": 454018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10932", "title": "Surgical correction of pulmonary atresia with multiple large systemic-pulmonary collaterals.", "content": "A young patient in whom the pulmonary blood flow was supplied completely by five systemic-pulmonary collaterals underwent reconstruction of the pulmonary outflow tract by a new technique. This consisted of the insertion of a valve-bearing conduit between the right ventricle and an isolated segment of the descending aorta, which gave rise to three of the collaterals. Although the patient had a hypoplastic pulmonary artery confluence, other factors mitigated against its use as the sole conduit for right ventricular output.", "contents": "Surgical correction of pulmonary atresia with multiple large systemic-pulmonary collaterals. A young patient in whom the pulmonary blood flow was supplied completely by five systemic-pulmonary collaterals underwent reconstruction of the pulmonary outflow tract by a new technique. This consisted of the insertion of a valve-bearing conduit between the right ventricle and an isolated segment of the descending aorta, which gave rise to three of the collaterals. Although the patient had a hypoplastic pulmonary artery confluence, other factors mitigated against its use as the sole conduit for right ventricular output.", "PMID": 454020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10933", "title": "Delayed rupture of the left ventricle after mitral valve replacement with bioprosthesis.", "content": "Rupture of the posterior ventricular wall after mitral valve replacement is a complication rarely reported in the literature. Perforation of the left ventricle after mitral valve replacement with a bioprosthesis has been described in only 3 patients. We have had 2 patients with this complication out of 322 patients who had mitral valve replacement with bioprosthesis. These perforations were caused by impingement of the posterior strut of the bioprosthesis on the posterior left ventricular wall, with intramyocardial hematoma and delayed rupture of the left ventricle.", "contents": "Delayed rupture of the left ventricle after mitral valve replacement with bioprosthesis. Rupture of the posterior ventricular wall after mitral valve replacement is a complication rarely reported in the literature. Perforation of the left ventricle after mitral valve replacement with a bioprosthesis has been described in only 3 patients. We have had 2 patients with this complication out of 322 patients who had mitral valve replacement with bioprosthesis. These perforations were caused by impingement of the posterior strut of the bioprosthesis on the posterior left ventricular wall, with intramyocardial hematoma and delayed rupture of the left ventricle.", "PMID": 454021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10934", "title": "Vascular evaluation for balloon pumping.", "content": "The effectiveness of intraaortic balloon counterpulsation is reduced frequently by arterial insufficiency following balloon insertion and occasionally by inability to pass the balloon centrally from a peripheral site. From a series of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, a subgroup with increased likelihood of needing balloon counterpulsation can be selected. Patients so chosen have received one aortoiliac injection of contrast material at the time of cardiac catheterization. Impressive degrees of vessel irregularity and stenosis on an atherosclerotic basis and of tortuosity of normal lumen size have been noted. Such information, gathered at little additional risk or irradiation, is considered to be important in the subsequent choice of sides for transfemoral insertion and may rule out attempted passage of the balloon by this route, directing the surgeon to a deliberate, prompt, transabdominal or thoracic aortic insertion if necessary.", "contents": "Vascular evaluation for balloon pumping. The effectiveness of intraaortic balloon counterpulsation is reduced frequently by arterial insufficiency following balloon insertion and occasionally by inability to pass the balloon centrally from a peripheral site. From a series of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, a subgroup with increased likelihood of needing balloon counterpulsation can be selected. Patients so chosen have received one aortoiliac injection of contrast material at the time of cardiac catheterization. Impressive degrees of vessel irregularity and stenosis on an atherosclerotic basis and of tortuosity of normal lumen size have been noted. Such information, gathered at little additional risk or irradiation, is considered to be important in the subsequent choice of sides for transfemoral insertion and may rule out attempted passage of the balloon by this route, directing the surgeon to a deliberate, prompt, transabdominal or thoracic aortic insertion if necessary.", "PMID": 454023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10935", "title": "Abdominal aortic aneurysms: diagnostic review and new technique.", "content": "A new technique of computed tomography (CT) applied to the diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysms is described, and the experience in 58 patients is reviewed. In all instances the abdominal aorta was clearly demonstrated, even when wall calcification was absent. A series of 37 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm underwent evaluation by physical examination, abdominal roentgenograms, and ultrasonic and CT scanning. Measurements of the transverse diameter at the point of maximal dilatation were compared with the measurements made at operation. CT not only confirmed the diagnosis in all patients but the measurements obtained by this technique were the most accurate, correlating extremely well with the true dimensions of the aneurysm. The addition of contrast enhancement to CT scanning allowed clear delineation of the aortic lumen and intraaneurysmal thrombus, not possible with any other method, including ultrasonography. The technique appears useful as a screening procedure and in the differential diagnosis of a tortuous abdominal aorta. Patients with a small aortic dilatation can be followed accurately by scanning.", "contents": "Abdominal aortic aneurysms: diagnostic review and new technique. A new technique of computed tomography (CT) applied to the diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysms is described, and the experience in 58 patients is reviewed. In all instances the abdominal aorta was clearly demonstrated, even when wall calcification was absent. A series of 37 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm underwent evaluation by physical examination, abdominal roentgenograms, and ultrasonic and CT scanning. Measurements of the transverse diameter at the point of maximal dilatation were compared with the measurements made at operation. CT not only confirmed the diagnosis in all patients but the measurements obtained by this technique were the most accurate, correlating extremely well with the true dimensions of the aneurysm. The addition of contrast enhancement to CT scanning allowed clear delineation of the aortic lumen and intraaneurysmal thrombus, not possible with any other method, including ultrasonography. The technique appears useful as a screening procedure and in the differential diagnosis of a tortuous abdominal aorta. Patients with a small aortic dilatation can be followed accurately by scanning.", "PMID": 454025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10936", "title": "Autotransfusion following cardiac operations: a randomized, prospective study.", "content": "To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the collection and retransfusion of postoperatively shed mediastinal blood as part of a multifaceted approach to blood conservation following cardiac operation, 113 patients were randomized into either an autotransfusion group (54 patients) or a control group (59 patients). Intraoperative and postoperative hemodilution was practiced in all patients. The clinical safety of this technique was confirmed by the lack of septic, hematological, pulmonary, renal, or hepatic complications. However, in this setting where blood conservation is already aggressively practiced, the ability of the technique to further reduce the use of banked blood following cardiac surgical procedures was not demonstrated.", "contents": "Autotransfusion following cardiac operations: a randomized, prospective study. To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the collection and retransfusion of postoperatively shed mediastinal blood as part of a multifaceted approach to blood conservation following cardiac operation, 113 patients were randomized into either an autotransfusion group (54 patients) or a control group (59 patients). Intraoperative and postoperative hemodilution was practiced in all patients. The clinical safety of this technique was confirmed by the lack of septic, hematological, pulmonary, renal, or hepatic complications. However, in this setting where blood conservation is already aggressively practiced, the ability of the technique to further reduce the use of banked blood following cardiac surgical procedures was not demonstrated.", "PMID": 454027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10937", "title": "The use of prostaglandin E1 and Blalock-Taussig shunts in neonates with cyanotic congenital heart disease.", "content": "Six unselected neonates with cyanotic congenital heart disease and life-threatening degrees of arterial oxygen desaturation have been managed by a protocol that includes administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and early Blalock-Taussig shunting. In 5 patients (seven paired observations) partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) rose from 19 mm Hg to a mean of 32.9 mm Hg within 20 minutes of initiation of PGE1 (0.1 to 0.2 microgram/kg/hr), infused intravenously or through an aortic catheter placed at ductal level or with both methods. The nonresponsive patient was older than the patients showing a positive response (1 month versus 24 to 96 hours). Following catheterization, immediate palliative operation including a Blalock-Taussig shunt was carried out. Although all had a satisfactory PaO2 (mean, 49 mm Hg) postoperatively, the PGE1-nonresponsive patient experienced serious intraoperative bradycardia, hypotension, and acidosis in contrast to the PGE1-responsive group. In this study, the use of PGE1 was not associated with any apparent serious side effects.", "contents": "The use of prostaglandin E1 and Blalock-Taussig shunts in neonates with cyanotic congenital heart disease. Six unselected neonates with cyanotic congenital heart disease and life-threatening degrees of arterial oxygen desaturation have been managed by a protocol that includes administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and early Blalock-Taussig shunting. In 5 patients (seven paired observations) partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) rose from 19 mm Hg to a mean of 32.9 mm Hg within 20 minutes of initiation of PGE1 (0.1 to 0.2 microgram/kg/hr), infused intravenously or through an aortic catheter placed at ductal level or with both methods. The nonresponsive patient was older than the patients showing a positive response (1 month versus 24 to 96 hours). Following catheterization, immediate palliative operation including a Blalock-Taussig shunt was carried out. Although all had a satisfactory PaO2 (mean, 49 mm Hg) postoperatively, the PGE1-nonresponsive patient experienced serious intraoperative bradycardia, hypotension, and acidosis in contrast to the PGE1-responsive group. In this study, the use of PGE1 was not associated with any apparent serious side effects.", "PMID": 454028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10938", "title": "Right stellate ganglion block for treatment of hypertension after cardiopulmonary bypass.", "content": "Right stellate ganglion block was performed on 24 patients in whom hypertension developed after cardiopulmonary bypass. Changes in blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output, and heart rate were evaluated. Most patients evidenced a decrease in systolic blood pressure (average, 40 mm Hg) and diastolic blood pressure (average, 19 mm Hg). Systemic vascular resistance was measured in 8 patients, and 7 demonstrated a decrease (average reduction, 6.7 resistance units). Changes in cardiac output were variable. Although stellate ganglion block can be safely performed and, in most patients, markedly reduces systolic blood pressure, the results suggest that other hypotensive agents may be more advantageous in the treatment of hypertension subsequent to coronary artery operation.", "contents": "Right stellate ganglion block for treatment of hypertension after cardiopulmonary bypass. Right stellate ganglion block was performed on 24 patients in whom hypertension developed after cardiopulmonary bypass. Changes in blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output, and heart rate were evaluated. Most patients evidenced a decrease in systolic blood pressure (average, 40 mm Hg) and diastolic blood pressure (average, 19 mm Hg). Systemic vascular resistance was measured in 8 patients, and 7 demonstrated a decrease (average reduction, 6.7 resistance units). Changes in cardiac output were variable. Although stellate ganglion block can be safely performed and, in most patients, markedly reduces systolic blood pressure, the results suggest that other hypotensive agents may be more advantageous in the treatment of hypertension subsequent to coronary artery operation.", "PMID": 454029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10939", "title": "Nitroprusside and epinephrine for treatment of low output in children after open-heart surgery.", "content": "We evaluated the acute hemodynamic effects of treatment of the low output state with sodium nitroprusside and epinephrine in 13 children after intracardiac operation. The 13 patients were selected from a consecutive series of 106 children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. They had a cardiac index less than 2.0 L/min/m2, even after an increase in left ventricular filling pressure and during infusion of nitroprusside. Although the nitroprusside brought about a significant increase in cardiac output and decrease in systemic vascular resistance, the cardiac index remained critically low (less than 2 L/min/m2). Epinephrine resulted in a further significant increase in the cardiac index, without a significant change in systemic resistance. This study suggests that in selected patients the simultaneous use of both a vasodilator drug (sodium nitroprusside) and a positive inotropic agent (epinephrine) is advantageous in the short-term treatment of the low cardiac output state after intracardiac operation.", "contents": "Nitroprusside and epinephrine for treatment of low output in children after open-heart surgery. We evaluated the acute hemodynamic effects of treatment of the low output state with sodium nitroprusside and epinephrine in 13 children after intracardiac operation. The 13 patients were selected from a consecutive series of 106 children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. They had a cardiac index less than 2.0 L/min/m2, even after an increase in left ventricular filling pressure and during infusion of nitroprusside. Although the nitroprusside brought about a significant increase in cardiac output and decrease in systemic vascular resistance, the cardiac index remained critically low (less than 2 L/min/m2). Epinephrine resulted in a further significant increase in the cardiac index, without a significant change in systemic resistance. This study suggests that in selected patients the simultaneous use of both a vasodilator drug (sodium nitroprusside) and a positive inotropic agent (epinephrine) is advantageous in the short-term treatment of the low cardiac output state after intracardiac operation.", "PMID": 454030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10940", "title": "Echocardiography and valve replacement in the critically ill patient with acute rheumatic carditis.", "content": "In 4 critically ill patients with acute rheumatic carditis, valve incompetence, and severe life-threatening cardiac failure, medical treatment consisting of bedrest, oxygen, digitalis, diuretics, and steroids produced little or no clinical improvement. Echocardiography showed that in each patient myocardial function was relatively well preserved despite active rheumatic carditis and the critical clinical state. Emergency valve replacement was performed, and a good clinical result was achieved in all 4 patients.", "contents": "Echocardiography and valve replacement in the critically ill patient with acute rheumatic carditis. In 4 critically ill patients with acute rheumatic carditis, valve incompetence, and severe life-threatening cardiac failure, medical treatment consisting of bedrest, oxygen, digitalis, diuretics, and steroids produced little or no clinical improvement. Echocardiography showed that in each patient myocardial function was relatively well preserved despite active rheumatic carditis and the critical clinical state. Emergency valve replacement was performed, and a good clinical result was achieved in all 4 patients.", "PMID": 454031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10941", "title": "The cause of the hemodynamic disturbances in Ebstein's anomaly based on observations at operation.", "content": "Ten adult patients with Ebstein's anomaly had open-heart operation for interruption of a Kent bundle. The 4 patients in Group 1 had arrhythmias. One patient had a patent foramen ovale, which was closed. In 3 patients the Kent pathway was identified and interrupted, but in the other only the pathway's anterograde function was interrupted, leaving the patient subject to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The 3 patients in Group 2 had mild to moderate cyanosis and dyspnea during SVT as well as mild impairment during strenuous physical activity. Only interruption of their Kent bundles and closure of the patent foramen ovale were done. The 3 patients in Group 3 had dyspnea and cyanosis on exertion, and 1 had overt right heart failure. In each patient, obstruction between the atrialized right ventricle (RV) and functioning RV by the displaced tricuspid valve (TV) was relieved by valve excision and replacement. Interruption of the Kent bundle was successful in 2 of the 3 patients. Operation for Ebstein's anomaly is indicated when any of the following conditions are present: arrhythmias due to Kent bundles that are refractory to medical management; a defect in the atrial septum that must be closed because of a history of cyanosis or paradoxical emboli, or an arrhythmia that must be corrected by right atriotomy; and obstruction between the atrialized and functioning RV or a small functioning RV, both of which can be corrected by TV replacement.", "contents": "The cause of the hemodynamic disturbances in Ebstein's anomaly based on observations at operation. Ten adult patients with Ebstein's anomaly had open-heart operation for interruption of a Kent bundle. The 4 patients in Group 1 had arrhythmias. One patient had a patent foramen ovale, which was closed. In 3 patients the Kent pathway was identified and interrupted, but in the other only the pathway's anterograde function was interrupted, leaving the patient subject to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The 3 patients in Group 2 had mild to moderate cyanosis and dyspnea during SVT as well as mild impairment during strenuous physical activity. Only interruption of their Kent bundles and closure of the patent foramen ovale were done. The 3 patients in Group 3 had dyspnea and cyanosis on exertion, and 1 had overt right heart failure. In each patient, obstruction between the atrialized right ventricle (RV) and functioning RV by the displaced tricuspid valve (TV) was relieved by valve excision and replacement. Interruption of the Kent bundle was successful in 2 of the 3 patients. Operation for Ebstein's anomaly is indicated when any of the following conditions are present: arrhythmias due to Kent bundles that are refractory to medical management; a defect in the atrial septum that must be closed because of a history of cyanosis or paradoxical emboli, or an arrhythmia that must be corrected by right atriotomy; and obstruction between the atrialized and functioning RV or a small functioning RV, both of which can be corrected by TV replacement.", "PMID": 454032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10942", "title": "Myocardial rupture: III. Chamber pressure, rate of distention, and ventricular disruption in isolated hearts.", "content": "We have developed an in vitro technique for producing myocardial rupture in lamb hearts, which relates tensile strength to a variety of conditions which can prevail in normal and infarcted human hearts. Retrograde perfusion of saline solution and inflation of the left ventricle was used to apply progressive stress to the left ventricular wall. Three separate sites of myocardial rupture were observed and occurred with the frequency of 54% at the papillary muscle, 30% at the interventricular septum, and 16% at the free wall of the left ventricle. The distribution and configuration of the experimental ruptures were similar to those usually noted as complications of human myocardial infarction. The mean rupturing pressure was 526 mm Hg in normal lamb hearts. Application of these techniques should ultimately provide data relevant to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of myocardial rupture.", "contents": "Myocardial rupture: III. Chamber pressure, rate of distention, and ventricular disruption in isolated hearts. We have developed an in vitro technique for producing myocardial rupture in lamb hearts, which relates tensile strength to a variety of conditions which can prevail in normal and infarcted human hearts. Retrograde perfusion of saline solution and inflation of the left ventricle was used to apply progressive stress to the left ventricular wall. Three separate sites of myocardial rupture were observed and occurred with the frequency of 54% at the papillary muscle, 30% at the interventricular septum, and 16% at the free wall of the left ventricle. The distribution and configuration of the experimental ruptures were similar to those usually noted as complications of human myocardial infarction. The mean rupturing pressure was 526 mm Hg in normal lamb hearts. Application of these techniques should ultimately provide data relevant to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of myocardial rupture.", "PMID": 454033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10943", "title": "\"Collis-Belsey\" fundoplication for uncomplicated hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux.", "content": "The combined Collis gastroplasty-Belsey Mark IV fundoplication was used in 86 patients with uncomplicated hiatal hernia followed for up to 8 years. Marked relief of symptoms was obtained, with no initial morbidity and mortality. Recurrence of hernia occurred in 1 patient. Minimal gastroesophageal reflux was observed in a few patients. Manometric and pH studies performed after operation showed a competent valve without notable esophageal reflux. The Collis gastroplasty creates a lesser curvature gastric tube that lengthens the so-called functional esophagus and eliminates tension at the suture line of the Belsey Mark IV fundoplication.", "contents": "\"Collis-Belsey\" fundoplication for uncomplicated hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux. The combined Collis gastroplasty-Belsey Mark IV fundoplication was used in 86 patients with uncomplicated hiatal hernia followed for up to 8 years. Marked relief of symptoms was obtained, with no initial morbidity and mortality. Recurrence of hernia occurred in 1 patient. Minimal gastroesophageal reflux was observed in a few patients. Manometric and pH studies performed after operation showed a competent valve without notable esophageal reflux. The Collis gastroplasty creates a lesser curvature gastric tube that lengthens the so-called functional esophagus and eliminates tension at the suture line of the Belsey Mark IV fundoplication.", "PMID": 454034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10944", "title": "Surgical management of an aneurysm of the left main coronary artery.", "content": "A 28-year-old woman underwent cardiac catheterization three months after sustaining an acute anterolateral myocardial infarct. An aneurysm of the left main coronary artery was found at angiography and also was visualized by two-dimensional echocardiography. The patient had no evidence of atherosclerotic vascular disease. At operation, vein grafts were placed to bypass the aneurysm and the orifice of the left coronary artery was oversewn to exclude the aneurysm from the coronary circulation.", "contents": "Surgical management of an aneurysm of the left main coronary artery. A 28-year-old woman underwent cardiac catheterization three months after sustaining an acute anterolateral myocardial infarct. An aneurysm of the left main coronary artery was found at angiography and also was visualized by two-dimensional echocardiography. The patient had no evidence of atherosclerotic vascular disease. At operation, vein grafts were placed to bypass the aneurysm and the orifice of the left coronary artery was oversewn to exclude the aneurysm from the coronary circulation.", "PMID": 454035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10945", "title": "Clinical experience with the isotopic cardiac pacemaker.", "content": "Clinical experience with isotopic pacemakers in 59 patients is compared with that in 77 control patients having conventional chemical battery-powered pulse generators. The review covers a 51/2-year period. Statistical analysis of the two series is impossible because of the numerous variables such as age, type of disease, number of controls, types of test and control pulse generators, dates of insertion, and protocol regulations. However, there were pulse generator failures in the control group, but not in the test group. Though not proven in this study, the isotopic cardiac pacer is likely to last longer than conventional chemical battery-powered units, and could provide lifetime pacing for many patients. The risk of carcinogenesis is minimal and seems negligible in older patients. The isotopic cardiac pacer, in spite of restrictions of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, should be considered for any patient with a life expectancy of 10 or more years. Paradoxically, it might be indicated in older rather than younger patients.", "contents": "Clinical experience with the isotopic cardiac pacemaker. Clinical experience with isotopic pacemakers in 59 patients is compared with that in 77 control patients having conventional chemical battery-powered pulse generators. The review covers a 51/2-year period. Statistical analysis of the two series is impossible because of the numerous variables such as age, type of disease, number of controls, types of test and control pulse generators, dates of insertion, and protocol regulations. However, there were pulse generator failures in the control group, but not in the test group. Though not proven in this study, the isotopic cardiac pacer is likely to last longer than conventional chemical battery-powered units, and could provide lifetime pacing for many patients. The risk of carcinogenesis is minimal and seems negligible in older patients. The isotopic cardiac pacer, in spite of restrictions of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, should be considered for any patient with a life expectancy of 10 or more years. Paradoxically, it might be indicated in older rather than younger patients.", "PMID": 454038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10946", "title": "Does preservation of the posterior chordae tendineae enhance survival during mitral valve replacement?", "content": "During a 30-month period, 51 patients underwent mitral valve replacement. There were 3 hospital deaths (5.9%), 2 of which were due to ventricular rupture. The 3 patients who died were among 13 patients in whom mitral valve replacement was combined with tricuspid or aortic valve operation or both. Postmortem findings in the 2 patients who died of ventricular rupture showed that the ventricular tears were located between the atrioventricular groove and the unresected papillary muscle stumps, in an area of ventricle formerly tethered by the posterior chordae tendineae. In the last 14 patients in the series, the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve and its chordae tendineae were left intact, and there was no mortality or prosthetic valve dysfunction. In patients with myxomatous or ischemic disease, the posterior leaflet was left completely intact. For patients with fibrocalcific rheumatic disease, we have developed a technique of partial excision and debridement of the posterior leaflet, preserving the intermediate and basal chordae tendineae attachments. With the techniques described, preservation of all or part of the posterior leaflet and its chordae tendineae does not appear to interfere with prosthetic valve function and, by reducing the risk of ventricular rupture, should enhance survival after mitral valve replacement.", "contents": "Does preservation of the posterior chordae tendineae enhance survival during mitral valve replacement? During a 30-month period, 51 patients underwent mitral valve replacement. There were 3 hospital deaths (5.9%), 2 of which were due to ventricular rupture. The 3 patients who died were among 13 patients in whom mitral valve replacement was combined with tricuspid or aortic valve operation or both. Postmortem findings in the 2 patients who died of ventricular rupture showed that the ventricular tears were located between the atrioventricular groove and the unresected papillary muscle stumps, in an area of ventricle formerly tethered by the posterior chordae tendineae. In the last 14 patients in the series, the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve and its chordae tendineae were left intact, and there was no mortality or prosthetic valve dysfunction. In patients with myxomatous or ischemic disease, the posterior leaflet was left completely intact. For patients with fibrocalcific rheumatic disease, we have developed a technique of partial excision and debridement of the posterior leaflet, preserving the intermediate and basal chordae tendineae attachments. With the techniques described, preservation of all or part of the posterior leaflet and its chordae tendineae does not appear to interfere with prosthetic valve function and, by reducing the risk of ventricular rupture, should enhance survival after mitral valve replacement.", "PMID": 454039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10947", "title": "Calcific stenosis of the porcine heterograft.", "content": "We have encountered two cases of late calcification of the porcine heterograft. A patient in chronic renal failure died of sepsis and endocarditis fifteen months after replacement of the mitral and tricuspid valves. At postmortem examination, both heterograft valves exhibited severe calcification and thrombosis. A second patient with rheumatic heart disease and sickle cell disease underwent mitral valve replacement for severe regurgitation. Thirty months later, cardiac catheterization revealed prosthetic valve stenosis. The valve was replaced successfully, and the excised heterograft exhibited severe calcification with restriction of leaflet motion. Although calcification of the porcine heterograft is known to occur in patients with infection or disorders of calcium metabolism, dysfunction of the heterograft is rare in our experience.", "contents": "Calcific stenosis of the porcine heterograft. We have encountered two cases of late calcification of the porcine heterograft. A patient in chronic renal failure died of sepsis and endocarditis fifteen months after replacement of the mitral and tricuspid valves. At postmortem examination, both heterograft valves exhibited severe calcification and thrombosis. A second patient with rheumatic heart disease and sickle cell disease underwent mitral valve replacement for severe regurgitation. Thirty months later, cardiac catheterization revealed prosthetic valve stenosis. The valve was replaced successfully, and the excised heterograft exhibited severe calcification with restriction of leaflet motion. Although calcification of the porcine heterograft is known to occur in patients with infection or disorders of calcium metabolism, dysfunction of the heterograft is rare in our experience.", "PMID": 454040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10948", "title": "Surgical management of lung bud anomalies: lobar emphysema, bronchogenic cyst, cystic adenomatoid malformation, and intralobar pulmonary sequestration.", "content": "Recently we saw 9 infants with life-threatening respiratory distress. Four patients had bronchogenic cyst, 2 had cystic adenomatoid malformation, and 9 had congenital lobar emphysema. Another group of 14 older children had recurrent infection and hemodynamic abnormalities, which responded to operative intervention. Each child required an appropriate resection following definitive diagnosis. These lesions represent a spectrum of closely related anomalies that arise during an early stage of embryonic lung bud maturation. Bronchoscopy is rarely useful, but special roentgenographic studies, including perfusion scans and arteriography, are usually diagnostic. Our operative experience is used to emphasize the urgency of precise diagnosis and surgical management of this poorly recognized clinical syndrome.", "contents": "Surgical management of lung bud anomalies: lobar emphysema, bronchogenic cyst, cystic adenomatoid malformation, and intralobar pulmonary sequestration. Recently we saw 9 infants with life-threatening respiratory distress. Four patients had bronchogenic cyst, 2 had cystic adenomatoid malformation, and 9 had congenital lobar emphysema. Another group of 14 older children had recurrent infection and hemodynamic abnormalities, which responded to operative intervention. Each child required an appropriate resection following definitive diagnosis. These lesions represent a spectrum of closely related anomalies that arise during an early stage of embryonic lung bud maturation. Bronchoscopy is rarely useful, but special roentgenographic studies, including perfusion scans and arteriography, are usually diagnostic. Our operative experience is used to emphasize the urgency of precise diagnosis and surgical management of this poorly recognized clinical syndrome.", "PMID": 454042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10949", "title": "Bilateral pulmonary resection for bronchiectasis: a 40-year experience.", "content": "Ninety-nine patients underwent bilateral pulmonary resection for severe multisegmental bilateral bronchiectasis at the Overholt Thoracic Clinic during the period 1937 to 1977. A total of 216 operations were performed, and 20 patients underwent three or more procedures. The operative mortality was 1.4% and the incidence of severe complications, 7%. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 30 years (average 10.2 years). Only 1 patient was lost to follow-up. Improvement in pulmonary symptoms was achieved in 83 patients; there was no improvement in 9 patients; and 4 patients were worse following resection. The results suggest that bilateral bronchiectasis need not be a contraindication to operation. In properly selected patients, lasting symptomatic improvement can be provided by resection.", "contents": "Bilateral pulmonary resection for bronchiectasis: a 40-year experience. Ninety-nine patients underwent bilateral pulmonary resection for severe multisegmental bilateral bronchiectasis at the Overholt Thoracic Clinic during the period 1937 to 1977. A total of 216 operations were performed, and 20 patients underwent three or more procedures. The operative mortality was 1.4% and the incidence of severe complications, 7%. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 30 years (average 10.2 years). Only 1 patient was lost to follow-up. Improvement in pulmonary symptoms was achieved in 83 patients; there was no improvement in 9 patients; and 4 patients were worse following resection. The results suggest that bilateral bronchiectasis need not be a contraindication to operation. In properly selected patients, lasting symptomatic improvement can be provided by resection.", "PMID": 454043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10950", "title": "Avoidance of esophageal stricture following severe caustic burns by the use of an intraluminal stent.", "content": "The high incidence of stricture following conventional therapy for caustic esophageal injuries prompted us to incorporate the esophageal stenting technique of Reyes and colleagues [3, 5, 6] into our protocol for management of such patients. Four adult patients were treated following severe esophageal burns caused by the ingestion of caustic drain cleaner. The severity of the burn was established by early esophagoscopy. Laparotomy and gastrotomy revealed severe but nontransmural gastric burns. The stent was left in place for 21 days. Antibiotics and corticosteroids were also employed. There have been no late strictures. One patient required laryngeal dilation for adhesions and another, tracheal dilation for subglottic stenosis. Contrast roentgenographic studies and esophageal manometry have revealed nearly normal esophageal function up to 20 months following the injury.", "contents": "Avoidance of esophageal stricture following severe caustic burns by the use of an intraluminal stent. The high incidence of stricture following conventional therapy for caustic esophageal injuries prompted us to incorporate the esophageal stenting technique of Reyes and colleagues [3, 5, 6] into our protocol for management of such patients. Four adult patients were treated following severe esophageal burns caused by the ingestion of caustic drain cleaner. The severity of the burn was established by early esophagoscopy. Laparotomy and gastrotomy revealed severe but nontransmural gastric burns. The stent was left in place for 21 days. Antibiotics and corticosteroids were also employed. There have been no late strictures. One patient required laryngeal dilation for adhesions and another, tracheal dilation for subglottic stenosis. Contrast roentgenographic studies and esophageal manometry have revealed nearly normal esophageal function up to 20 months following the injury.", "PMID": 454045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10951", "title": "Tracheobronchial ruptures due to cuffed Carlens tubes.", "content": "At our institution in the past 22 years, more than 3,000 patients have undergone chest procedures, and 2,700 of them were intubated with a cuffed Carlens endotracheal tube. In this paper we report on 5 patients with tracheobronchial ruptures caused by intubation with these tubes. We believe this hazard should be brought to the attention of physicians.", "contents": "Tracheobronchial ruptures due to cuffed Carlens tubes. At our institution in the past 22 years, more than 3,000 patients have undergone chest procedures, and 2,700 of them were intubated with a cuffed Carlens endotracheal tube. In this paper we report on 5 patients with tracheobronchial ruptures caused by intubation with these tubes. We believe this hazard should be brought to the attention of physicians.", "PMID": 454046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10952", "title": "Use of activated coagulation time to monitor heparin during cardiac surgery.", "content": "Activated coagulation time (ACT) for protamine reversal was monitored in 28 consecutive patients (Group 1) and a standard heparin-protamine protocol was used for an earlier series of 28 patients (Group 2). Although Group 1 received a significantly higher total heparin dose than Group 2 (p less than 0.01), the protamine dose for reversal was significantly less for the ACT group than for the controls (p less than 0.0005). The mean ratio of protamine to total heparin was 1 : 1 (range, 0.33 to 1.44) for the ACT group and 2 : 1 (range, 1.42 to 2.59) for the controls. There were no significant differences between the two groups in operative and postoperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, hematocrit, and partial thromboplastin time. This study shows that the ACT test did not reduce postoperative bleeding significantly when compared with our standard protocol. It also indicates that there is wide individual sensitivity to heparin and that significantly less protamine is required for reversal.", "contents": "Use of activated coagulation time to monitor heparin during cardiac surgery. Activated coagulation time (ACT) for protamine reversal was monitored in 28 consecutive patients (Group 1) and a standard heparin-protamine protocol was used for an earlier series of 28 patients (Group 2). Although Group 1 received a significantly higher total heparin dose than Group 2 (p less than 0.01), the protamine dose for reversal was significantly less for the ACT group than for the controls (p less than 0.0005). The mean ratio of protamine to total heparin was 1 : 1 (range, 0.33 to 1.44) for the ACT group and 2 : 1 (range, 1.42 to 2.59) for the controls. There were no significant differences between the two groups in operative and postoperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, hematocrit, and partial thromboplastin time. This study shows that the ACT test did not reduce postoperative bleeding significantly when compared with our standard protocol. It also indicates that there is wide individual sensitivity to heparin and that significantly less protamine is required for reversal.", "PMID": 454047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10953", "title": "Impasse at the crossroads: evolution or regulation.", "content": "Today, the free enterprise system of health care delivery is being challenged in the United States, where availability and consumption of health services and their cost are epochal. Review of the health care delivery systems of other nations reveals failure of the system when the national medical community has been divided, when government has monopolized the system, and when fee for service has been abandoned. Government intervention in American health care has been increasingly regulatory and promises to extend regulation in the immediate future. The American medical community can respond by unifying, by reducing its contribution to health care costs, and by changing physician behavior. Consumers have the responsibility to eliminate unnecessary utilization and to become more informed buyers of health care and insurance. The fiscal intermediary has the responsibility to provide tailored insurance options that are cost-effective. As informed and unified medical community can be a formidable force in shaping the future of health care in the United States.", "contents": "Impasse at the crossroads: evolution or regulation. Today, the free enterprise system of health care delivery is being challenged in the United States, where availability and consumption of health services and their cost are epochal. Review of the health care delivery systems of other nations reveals failure of the system when the national medical community has been divided, when government has monopolized the system, and when fee for service has been abandoned. Government intervention in American health care has been increasingly regulatory and promises to extend regulation in the immediate future. The American medical community can respond by unifying, by reducing its contribution to health care costs, and by changing physician behavior. Consumers have the responsibility to eliminate unnecessary utilization and to become more informed buyers of health care and insurance. The fiscal intermediary has the responsibility to provide tailored insurance options that are cost-effective. As informed and unified medical community can be a formidable force in shaping the future of health care in the United States.", "PMID": 454048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10954", "title": "Supraclavicular thoracotomy for diagnosis of apical lung and superior mediastinal lesions.", "content": "Despite the use of mediastinoscopy, anterior mediastinotomy, transcarinal biopsy, needle biopsy, and transbronchial fluoroscopic brushing, thoracotomy is necessary to obtain tissue for diagnosis in patients suspected of having carcinoma of the lung. A technique we have employed is exploratory thoracotomy, as described for the approach to cervical and upper dorsal sympathetic ganglion, with entrance into the pleural space through a supraclavicular incision. Five patients, 3 with marginal pulmonary function and 2 with brachial plexus and upper mediastinal or vertebral involvement, had tissue diagnosis of lung carcinoma by this method without postoperative complication. Supraclavicular thoracotomy offers a safe, easy, and definitive method of tissue diagnosis of apical lung and superior mediastinal lesions.", "contents": "Supraclavicular thoracotomy for diagnosis of apical lung and superior mediastinal lesions. Despite the use of mediastinoscopy, anterior mediastinotomy, transcarinal biopsy, needle biopsy, and transbronchial fluoroscopic brushing, thoracotomy is necessary to obtain tissue for diagnosis in patients suspected of having carcinoma of the lung. A technique we have employed is exploratory thoracotomy, as described for the approach to cervical and upper dorsal sympathetic ganglion, with entrance into the pleural space through a supraclavicular incision. Five patients, 3 with marginal pulmonary function and 2 with brachial plexus and upper mediastinal or vertebral involvement, had tissue diagnosis of lung carcinoma by this method without postoperative complication. Supraclavicular thoracotomy offers a safe, easy, and definitive method of tissue diagnosis of apical lung and superior mediastinal lesions.", "PMID": 454051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10955", "title": "Polymyalgia rheumatica begins at 40.", "content": "Three cases of polymyalgia rheumatica with onset under age 50 are described. Most large series of patients with this entity contain a few examples of onset below age 50. This diagnosis should be made with confidence in younger patients with typical symptoms and laboratory findings, and showing complete suppressions of disease activity with relatively small daily doses (20 mg or less) of corticosteroids.", "contents": "Polymyalgia rheumatica begins at 40. Three cases of polymyalgia rheumatica with onset under age 50 are described. Most large series of patients with this entity contain a few examples of onset below age 50. This diagnosis should be made with confidence in younger patients with typical symptoms and laboratory findings, and showing complete suppressions of disease activity with relatively small daily doses (20 mg or less) of corticosteroids.", "PMID": 454058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10956", "title": "Lung cancer in young women.", "content": "A comparison was made between cigarette smoking histories of 31 women below age 50 years who had a diagnosis of lung cancer on hospital discharge and smoking histories of 124 women below age 50 years who had been hospitalized for other conditions. Of the women with lung cancer, 28 (90%) were current or former cigarette smokers; 72 (58%) of the comparison women were smokers. The relative risk estimate for lung cancer among smokers as compared with nonsmokers is 6.7, with 90% confidence limits of 4.0 and 11. Risk of lung cancer increased with the amount that the women smoked. The smokers with lung cancer had been smoking for longer periods than the smokers with other conditions. Assuming that the association is causal, cigarette smoking was responsible for about 77% of the lung cancer of young women in this survey.", "contents": "Lung cancer in young women. A comparison was made between cigarette smoking histories of 31 women below age 50 years who had a diagnosis of lung cancer on hospital discharge and smoking histories of 124 women below age 50 years who had been hospitalized for other conditions. Of the women with lung cancer, 28 (90%) were current or former cigarette smokers; 72 (58%) of the comparison women were smokers. The relative risk estimate for lung cancer among smokers as compared with nonsmokers is 6.7, with 90% confidence limits of 4.0 and 11. Risk of lung cancer increased with the amount that the women smoked. The smokers with lung cancer had been smoking for longer periods than the smokers with other conditions. Assuming that the association is causal, cigarette smoking was responsible for about 77% of the lung cancer of young women in this survey.", "PMID": 454059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10957", "title": "The beneficial effects of verapamil in chronic atrial fibrillation.", "content": "Digitalis preparations frequently fail to control heart rate in many patients who have chronic atrial fibrillation, particularly during physical exertion. The effects of orally administered verapamil, 160 to 240 mg/day, on the heart rate at rest and during mild exercise were studied in 23 digitalized patients with chronic atrial fibrillation of various causes. Verapamil substantially reduced the excessive heart rate response to exercise in well-digitalized patients who had chronic atrial fibrillation.", "contents": "The beneficial effects of verapamil in chronic atrial fibrillation. Digitalis preparations frequently fail to control heart rate in many patients who have chronic atrial fibrillation, particularly during physical exertion. The effects of orally administered verapamil, 160 to 240 mg/day, on the heart rate at rest and during mild exercise were studied in 23 digitalized patients with chronic atrial fibrillation of various causes. Verapamil substantially reduced the excessive heart rate response to exercise in well-digitalized patients who had chronic atrial fibrillation.", "PMID": 454060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10958", "title": "Heroin-induced thrombocytopenia.", "content": "Six cases of acute thrombocytopenic purpura occurred secondary to heroin abuse. Five of the six affected patients were seen over a six-month period between November 1977 and March 1978, and the last patient was seen in November 1978. The clinical manifestations were characteristic of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia. We suspect this syndrome is related to a new adulterant added to local street heroin.", "contents": "Heroin-induced thrombocytopenia. Six cases of acute thrombocytopenic purpura occurred secondary to heroin abuse. Five of the six affected patients were seen over a six-month period between November 1977 and March 1978, and the last patient was seen in November 1978. The clinical manifestations were characteristic of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia. We suspect this syndrome is related to a new adulterant added to local street heroin.", "PMID": 454061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10959", "title": "Levels of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone in hyperthyroidism.", "content": "A modified thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) radioimmunoassay with particular sensitivity at the bottom end of the normal range was developed using dog serum in standard tubes and reduced quantities of TSH labeled with radioactive iodine (125I) and antiserum. The standard deviation of B0 points was 1%, implying an assay sensitivity of less than 0.1 microU/mL. This procedure was used to measure serum TSH levels in 32 normal subjects, 18 patients with hyperthyroidism, and seven patients with elevation of serum triiodothyronine (T3) levels. The range of values obtained from normal subjects was less than 0.1 to 4.1 microU/mL, with 97% of the subjects' values greater than 0.2 microU/mL. All of the hyperthyroid patients had values less than or equal to 0.2 microU/mL. Hence, the modified TSH assay was thought to be of use in distinguishing hyperthyroid from normal subjects. The TSH levels in subjects with elevated T3 levels ranged from less than 0.1 to 1.8 microU/mL. These results were thought to indicate heterogeneity within this group and suggest that only certain of these individuals merit the diagnosis of \"T3 toxicosis.\"", "contents": "Levels of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone in hyperthyroidism. A modified thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) radioimmunoassay with particular sensitivity at the bottom end of the normal range was developed using dog serum in standard tubes and reduced quantities of TSH labeled with radioactive iodine (125I) and antiserum. The standard deviation of B0 points was 1%, implying an assay sensitivity of less than 0.1 microU/mL. This procedure was used to measure serum TSH levels in 32 normal subjects, 18 patients with hyperthyroidism, and seven patients with elevation of serum triiodothyronine (T3) levels. The range of values obtained from normal subjects was less than 0.1 to 4.1 microU/mL, with 97% of the subjects' values greater than 0.2 microU/mL. All of the hyperthyroid patients had values less than or equal to 0.2 microU/mL. Hence, the modified TSH assay was thought to be of use in distinguishing hyperthyroid from normal subjects. The TSH levels in subjects with elevated T3 levels ranged from less than 0.1 to 1.8 microU/mL. These results were thought to indicate heterogeneity within this group and suggest that only certain of these individuals merit the diagnosis of \"T3 toxicosis.\"", "PMID": 454062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10960", "title": "Probability of a positive transbronchial lung biopsy result in sarcoidosis.", "content": "Forty-one consecutive patients with suspected sarcoidosis underwent pulmonary function testing and transbronchial lung biopsy at three community teaching hospitals. Transbronchial biopsy disclosed noncaseating granulomas in 22 of 23 patients (96%) in whom parenchymal disease was roentgenographically apparent and in eight of 18 patients (44%) in whom it was not. The stage of the disease as determined by the chest roentgenogram was the most reliable determinant for a positive biopsy result. Not the presence of cough, dyspnea, or constitutional symptoms or pulmonary function as measured by forced vital capacity and carbon monoxide diffusing capacity served to predict a positive transbronchial biopsy finding any more accurately than did the roentgenographic staging of the disease itself. This study suggests that while transbronchial lung biopsy may be an acceptable initial diagnostic procedure in suspected sarcoid patients without parenchymal lung disease, clinical symptoms and pulmonary function abnormalities are not helpful in predicting the liklihood of a positive biopsy result.", "contents": "Probability of a positive transbronchial lung biopsy result in sarcoidosis. Forty-one consecutive patients with suspected sarcoidosis underwent pulmonary function testing and transbronchial lung biopsy at three community teaching hospitals. Transbronchial biopsy disclosed noncaseating granulomas in 22 of 23 patients (96%) in whom parenchymal disease was roentgenographically apparent and in eight of 18 patients (44%) in whom it was not. The stage of the disease as determined by the chest roentgenogram was the most reliable determinant for a positive biopsy result. Not the presence of cough, dyspnea, or constitutional symptoms or pulmonary function as measured by forced vital capacity and carbon monoxide diffusing capacity served to predict a positive transbronchial biopsy finding any more accurately than did the roentgenographic staging of the disease itself. This study suggests that while transbronchial lung biopsy may be an acceptable initial diagnostic procedure in suspected sarcoid patients without parenchymal lung disease, clinical symptoms and pulmonary function abnormalities are not helpful in predicting the liklihood of a positive biopsy result.", "PMID": 454063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10961", "title": "Splenectomy for hemocytopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus. A controlled appraisal.", "content": "We compared 15 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treated with splenectomy for thrombocytopenic purpura and/or hemolytic anemia to 15 similar SLE patients treated only medically. There was no significant difference between the splenectomized and the nonsplenectomized patients when their entire course, as well as the presplenectomy and postsplenectomy or their equivalent control periods, were compared by means of an overall severity index. Splenectomized patients, however, had a significantly higher frequency of cutaneous vasculitis after splenectomy than in their own presplenectomy period and a significantly higher frequency of cutaneous vasculitis than the nonsplenectomized patients. Serious infections were more frequent in the postsplenectomy period than in an equivalent period in the nonsplenectomized patients. Splenectomy produced only short-term benefit in the management of hemocytopenic episodes in SLE and seems only warranted as an emergency procedure in patients unresponsive to medical treatment.", "contents": "Splenectomy for hemocytopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus. A controlled appraisal. We compared 15 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treated with splenectomy for thrombocytopenic purpura and/or hemolytic anemia to 15 similar SLE patients treated only medically. There was no significant difference between the splenectomized and the nonsplenectomized patients when their entire course, as well as the presplenectomy and postsplenectomy or their equivalent control periods, were compared by means of an overall severity index. Splenectomized patients, however, had a significantly higher frequency of cutaneous vasculitis after splenectomy than in their own presplenectomy period and a significantly higher frequency of cutaneous vasculitis than the nonsplenectomized patients. Serious infections were more frequent in the postsplenectomy period than in an equivalent period in the nonsplenectomized patients. Splenectomy produced only short-term benefit in the management of hemocytopenic episodes in SLE and seems only warranted as an emergency procedure in patients unresponsive to medical treatment.", "PMID": 454064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10962", "title": "Periodic peritonitis. Present management and future prospects.", "content": "Thirty-three patients with periodic peritonitis were treated with colchicine for 863 patient-months of observation (average, 27 months). There is a personal optimum dose, and the daily requirement varies at 1 or 1.5 mg. All patients responded to treatment. Episodes were precipitated in all patients who stopped their medications. No side effects were noticed. Four normal full-term infants were born to patients taking colchicine during the study.", "contents": "Periodic peritonitis. Present management and future prospects. Thirty-three patients with periodic peritonitis were treated with colchicine for 863 patient-months of observation (average, 27 months). There is a personal optimum dose, and the daily requirement varies at 1 or 1.5 mg. All patients responded to treatment. Episodes were precipitated in all patients who stopped their medications. No side effects were noticed. Four normal full-term infants were born to patients taking colchicine during the study.", "PMID": 454065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10963", "title": "Intravenous miconazole therapy of mycotic infections.", "content": "The efficacy and safety of intravenously administered miconazole nitrate was examined in eight patients with the following infections: cutaneous North American blastomycosis (one), extensive dermatophytosis(one), and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (six). Mycologic assessment included direct examination for fungal elements, fungal culture, and histopathology. Laboratory evaluations were performed before and at regular intervals during the study. The total miconazole nitrate dosage, which was administered over a seven- to 32-day period, ranged from 4.0 to 46.8 g. Follow-up examinations extended from two to 15 months. Excellent results were obtained in five patients and fair results in three. No renal, cardiac, hepatic, or hematopoietic toxicity was observed. Other side effects, however, necessitated premature cessation of therapy in four patients. Overall, intravenously administered miconazole is an effective antifungal agent for these cutaneous infections.", "contents": "Intravenous miconazole therapy of mycotic infections. The efficacy and safety of intravenously administered miconazole nitrate was examined in eight patients with the following infections: cutaneous North American blastomycosis (one), extensive dermatophytosis(one), and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (six). Mycologic assessment included direct examination for fungal elements, fungal culture, and histopathology. Laboratory evaluations were performed before and at regular intervals during the study. The total miconazole nitrate dosage, which was administered over a seven- to 32-day period, ranged from 4.0 to 46.8 g. Follow-up examinations extended from two to 15 months. Excellent results were obtained in five patients and fair results in three. No renal, cardiac, hepatic, or hematopoietic toxicity was observed. Other side effects, however, necessitated premature cessation of therapy in four patients. Overall, intravenously administered miconazole is an effective antifungal agent for these cutaneous infections.", "PMID": 454066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10964", "title": "Hypouricemia by defect in the tubular reabsorption.", "content": "Two patients with hypouricemia with high levels of uric acid in their urine were given pyrazinamide and probenecid. The uric acid clearance decreased to low or normal values after pyrazinamide administration. In both cases, probenecid produced a slight increment in the uric acid excretion. This type of response suggests a defect in the reabsorption component. It is tempting to speculate on a postsecretory reabsorption defect based on the results of pyrazinamide and probenecid tests.", "contents": "Hypouricemia by defect in the tubular reabsorption. Two patients with hypouricemia with high levels of uric acid in their urine were given pyrazinamide and probenecid. The uric acid clearance decreased to low or normal values after pyrazinamide administration. In both cases, probenecid produced a slight increment in the uric acid excretion. This type of response suggests a defect in the reabsorption component. It is tempting to speculate on a postsecretory reabsorption defect based on the results of pyrazinamide and probenecid tests.", "PMID": 454067} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10965", "title": "Acute pseudogout in chronic renal failure.", "content": "Acute pseudogout (calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease [CPPD disease]) developed in two patients with chronic renal failure. The disease had atypical features. The calcification of the involved joints was more diffuse than the usual linear stippled calcification. The first patient, age 39, was young to have pseudogout. The second patient had pseudogout and chondrocalcinosis limited to the elbow. Review of wrist roentgenograms of 82 patients (mean age, 49.0 years), undergoing hemodialysis for chronic renal failure revealed three patients (a 3.7% incidence) with chondrocalcinosis. The incidence increased to three of 19 (15.8%) in the patients over the age of 60. Although considered uncommon, pseudogout may cause acute arthritis in chronic renal failure more often than previously suspected. Joint aspiration and identification of CPPD cystals with compensated polarized light microscopy will establish the diagnosis of pseudogout.", "contents": "Acute pseudogout in chronic renal failure. Acute pseudogout (calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease [CPPD disease]) developed in two patients with chronic renal failure. The disease had atypical features. The calcification of the involved joints was more diffuse than the usual linear stippled calcification. The first patient, age 39, was young to have pseudogout. The second patient had pseudogout and chondrocalcinosis limited to the elbow. Review of wrist roentgenograms of 82 patients (mean age, 49.0 years), undergoing hemodialysis for chronic renal failure revealed three patients (a 3.7% incidence) with chondrocalcinosis. The incidence increased to three of 19 (15.8%) in the patients over the age of 60. Although considered uncommon, pseudogout may cause acute arthritis in chronic renal failure more often than previously suspected. Joint aspiration and identification of CPPD cystals with compensated polarized light microscopy will establish the diagnosis of pseudogout.", "PMID": 454068} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10966", "title": "The effect of infusion of mannitol-sodium bicarbonate on the clinical course of myoglobinuria.", "content": "Twenty patients who had evidence of myoglobinuria were treated with intravenous infusions of mannitol and sodium bicarbonate. Nine patients (group 1) responded with higher urine output, and continued infusion improved renal function; none required dialysis and all survived. Eleven patients (group 2) did not respond to the infusion, and required an average of 5.3 (range, 0 to 11) dialyses; one patient died. There was no significant difference in initial BUN level, creatinine level, BUN/creatinine ratio, or fractional sodium excretion level between the two groups. However, group 2 patients had a significantly higher creatine phosphokinase (CPK) level, serum phosphate level, and hematocrit reading initially than did group 1, indicative of more severe muscle injury and hemoconcentration. These results demonstrate that some patients with myoglobinuria will respond to infusion of mannitol and sodium bicarbonate. This treatment may be effective in altering the clinical course of myoglobinuric acute renal failure.", "contents": "The effect of infusion of mannitol-sodium bicarbonate on the clinical course of myoglobinuria. Twenty patients who had evidence of myoglobinuria were treated with intravenous infusions of mannitol and sodium bicarbonate. Nine patients (group 1) responded with higher urine output, and continued infusion improved renal function; none required dialysis and all survived. Eleven patients (group 2) did not respond to the infusion, and required an average of 5.3 (range, 0 to 11) dialyses; one patient died. There was no significant difference in initial BUN level, creatinine level, BUN/creatinine ratio, or fractional sodium excretion level between the two groups. However, group 2 patients had a significantly higher creatine phosphokinase (CPK) level, serum phosphate level, and hematocrit reading initially than did group 1, indicative of more severe muscle injury and hemoconcentration. These results demonstrate that some patients with myoglobinuria will respond to infusion of mannitol and sodium bicarbonate. This treatment may be effective in altering the clinical course of myoglobinuric acute renal failure.", "PMID": 454069} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10967", "title": "Pseudodysrhythmias in ambulatory ECG monitoring.", "content": "Artifacts mimicking a variety of dysrhythmias occur relatively frequently in ambulatory ECG (Holter) monitoring records. Proper interpretation is imperative if serious therapeutic errors are to be avoided. Two-channel recording systems may facilitate recognition of some, but not all, of these artifacts. Pseudodysrhythmias may mimic paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, atrial dissociation, extrasystoles, and sinus pauses. There are several causes of pseudodysrhythmias. Failure to recognize these patterns may result in serious errors in patient management.", "contents": "Pseudodysrhythmias in ambulatory ECG monitoring. Artifacts mimicking a variety of dysrhythmias occur relatively frequently in ambulatory ECG (Holter) monitoring records. Proper interpretation is imperative if serious therapeutic errors are to be avoided. Two-channel recording systems may facilitate recognition of some, but not all, of these artifacts. Pseudodysrhythmias may mimic paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, atrial dissociation, extrasystoles, and sinus pauses. There are several causes of pseudodysrhythmias. Failure to recognize these patterns may result in serious errors in patient management.", "PMID": 454071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10968", "title": "The MB fraction of creatine phosphokinase. An indicator of myocardial involvement in acute pericarditis.", "content": "An elevated level of the MB fraction of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) with normal serum myoglobin and normal CPK values was found in a case of acute idiopathic pericarditis. The elevated serum CPK-MB isozyme is suggested to be an indicator of myocardial involvement accompanying acute pericarditis. The normal CPK and serum myoglobin values and the pattern of rapid decrease of CPK-MB level ruled out the possibility of acute myocardial infarction.", "contents": "The MB fraction of creatine phosphokinase. An indicator of myocardial involvement in acute pericarditis. An elevated level of the MB fraction of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) with normal serum myoglobin and normal CPK values was found in a case of acute idiopathic pericarditis. The elevated serum CPK-MB isozyme is suggested to be an indicator of myocardial involvement accompanying acute pericarditis. The normal CPK and serum myoglobin values and the pattern of rapid decrease of CPK-MB level ruled out the possibility of acute myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 454073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10969", "title": "Candida fungus balls in the common bile duct. Unusual manifestation of disseminated candidiasis.", "content": "Disseminated candidiasis appearing as Candida fungus balls in the common bile duct developed in a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia. The patient had received broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy for fever of unclear origin and subsequently manifested signs of liver cell dysfunction. A percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram demonstrated three radiolucent defects in the distal part of the common bile duct, which proved to be fungus balls at operation. The liver was studded with microabscesses that disclosed C albicans on biopsy. The biliary tract fungus balls were removed surgically, and the patient was treated with 2,001 mg of intravenously administered amphotericin B over a 2 1/2-month period. No evidence of Candida infection is evident eight months after completion of therapy.", "contents": "Candida fungus balls in the common bile duct. Unusual manifestation of disseminated candidiasis. Disseminated candidiasis appearing as Candida fungus balls in the common bile duct developed in a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia. The patient had received broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy for fever of unclear origin and subsequently manifested signs of liver cell dysfunction. A percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram demonstrated three radiolucent defects in the distal part of the common bile duct, which proved to be fungus balls at operation. The liver was studded with microabscesses that disclosed C albicans on biopsy. The biliary tract fungus balls were removed surgically, and the patient was treated with 2,001 mg of intravenously administered amphotericin B over a 2 1/2-month period. No evidence of Candida infection is evident eight months after completion of therapy.", "PMID": 454074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10970", "title": "Long-term selenium exposure.", "content": "Metabolic pathways and toxic effects of long-term selenium exposure in animal models and humans have both similarities and significant differences. In animal models the target organ is the liver, in which chronic cirrhosis develops. In man the target organ appears to be the lung, which manifests acute \"rose cold,\" or, as in our patient, a chronic granulomatous hypersensitivity. Our data indicate not only a different target organ than would have been predicted from animal models, but also a difference in the distribution of selenium in human tissues. Long-term use of selenium favors production of dimethylselenide, which is excreted by the lungs and should be considered a pulmonary toxin. The ramifications of these findings may require a change in the monitoring techniques of long-term industrial exposure and mandate a close follow-up of selenium as a health fad.", "contents": "Long-term selenium exposure. Metabolic pathways and toxic effects of long-term selenium exposure in animal models and humans have both similarities and significant differences. In animal models the target organ is the liver, in which chronic cirrhosis develops. In man the target organ appears to be the lung, which manifests acute \"rose cold,\" or, as in our patient, a chronic granulomatous hypersensitivity. Our data indicate not only a different target organ than would have been predicted from animal models, but also a difference in the distribution of selenium in human tissues. Long-term use of selenium favors production of dimethylselenide, which is excreted by the lungs and should be considered a pulmonary toxin. The ramifications of these findings may require a change in the monitoring techniques of long-term industrial exposure and mandate a close follow-up of selenium as a health fad.", "PMID": 454075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10971", "title": "Leukopenia due to penicillin and cephalosporin homologues.", "content": "Leukopenia is an infrequently recognized complication of penicillin-related antibiotic and cephalosporin therapy. We describe our experience with nine individuals and reviewed reports of 11 cases from the literature. Seventy-six percent of cases occurred in individuals receiving 150 mg/kg/day or more of the various penicillin and cephalosporin homologues; 67% received these high doses for two or more weeks before the onset of leukopenia. Leukopenia was unusual within the first week of antibiotic treatment. Standard medical texts often recommend blind administration with 12 to 23 g/day of these antibiotics regardless of weight. It is suggested that these antibiotics be administered according to a maximum milligram per kilogram per day dosage as is done in children. Beyond the first week of administration, careful monitoring of the blood cell count should be conducted for those receiving high doses of these antibiotics.", "contents": "Leukopenia due to penicillin and cephalosporin homologues. Leukopenia is an infrequently recognized complication of penicillin-related antibiotic and cephalosporin therapy. We describe our experience with nine individuals and reviewed reports of 11 cases from the literature. Seventy-six percent of cases occurred in individuals receiving 150 mg/kg/day or more of the various penicillin and cephalosporin homologues; 67% received these high doses for two or more weeks before the onset of leukopenia. Leukopenia was unusual within the first week of antibiotic treatment. Standard medical texts often recommend blind administration with 12 to 23 g/day of these antibiotics regardless of weight. It is suggested that these antibiotics be administered according to a maximum milligram per kilogram per day dosage as is done in children. Beyond the first week of administration, careful monitoring of the blood cell count should be conducted for those receiving high doses of these antibiotics.", "PMID": 454076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10972", "title": "[Electron microscopic studies in enzootic muscular dystrophy in cattle].", "content": "Electron microscopy was used to examine the sekeletal muscles of young cattle, aged between 13 and 24 months, with spontaneous enzootic myodystrophy (nutritional myodegeneration due to selenium deficiency, white muscle disease). The animals had been received from Sumava District, Southern Bohemia, an area known for shortage of selenium. Outbreaks of clinical illness were recorded from them between four and 18 days from the beginning of grazing. Most of the ultrastructural changes included decomposition of myofibrils and hyalinisation of fibres as well as defective fibril synthesis (Z-striation abnormality), some of the latter phenomena recordable even from regenerating fibre. However, minor disorders only were established from the mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum, components of sarcoplasm, and vessels. There were far-reaching ultrastructural similarities to nutritional myodegeneration of sheep. The changes recorded are likely to suggest a specific role played by selenium in the formation and preservation of myofibril proteins.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic studies in enzootic muscular dystrophy in cattle]. Electron microscopy was used to examine the sekeletal muscles of young cattle, aged between 13 and 24 months, with spontaneous enzootic myodystrophy (nutritional myodegeneration due to selenium deficiency, white muscle disease). The animals had been received from Sumava District, Southern Bohemia, an area known for shortage of selenium. Outbreaks of clinical illness were recorded from them between four and 18 days from the beginning of grazing. Most of the ultrastructural changes included decomposition of myofibrils and hyalinisation of fibres as well as defective fibril synthesis (Z-striation abnormality), some of the latter phenomena recordable even from regenerating fibre. However, minor disorders only were established from the mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum, components of sarcoplasm, and vessels. There were far-reaching ultrastructural similarities to nutritional myodegeneration of sheep. The changes recorded are likely to suggest a specific role played by selenium in the formation and preservation of myofibril proteins.", "PMID": 454084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10973", "title": "[Pharmacological and toxicological study of turimycin].", "content": "Turimycin is characterised by low acute toxicity. Mean lethal doses for mouse and rat are 750 mg/kg body weight for intraperitoneal application of something in excess of 3,000 mg/kg for oral administration. The blood pressure of anaesthetised cats may be reduced by amounts depending on intravenous Turimycin doses (between 10 and 50 mg/kg). The hypotensive effect of Turimycin is attributable to its negative inotropic effect on the heart and its spasmolytic action on the unstriated muscles. Reversible reduction of urine and ion excretion of rat following intraperitoneal application of 50 mg/kg body weight of Turimycin is interpreted as a consequence of such action upon blood pressure. A preliminary study was conducted into dogs which had orally received daily Turimycin doses of 50 or 125 mg/kg body weight over twelve months. No substance-depending functional or morphological damage was recorded.", "contents": "[Pharmacological and toxicological study of turimycin]. Turimycin is characterised by low acute toxicity. Mean lethal doses for mouse and rat are 750 mg/kg body weight for intraperitoneal application of something in excess of 3,000 mg/kg for oral administration. The blood pressure of anaesthetised cats may be reduced by amounts depending on intravenous Turimycin doses (between 10 and 50 mg/kg). The hypotensive effect of Turimycin is attributable to its negative inotropic effect on the heart and its spasmolytic action on the unstriated muscles. Reversible reduction of urine and ion excretion of rat following intraperitoneal application of 50 mg/kg body weight of Turimycin is interpreted as a consequence of such action upon blood pressure. A preliminary study was conducted into dogs which had orally received daily Turimycin doses of 50 or 125 mg/kg body weight over twelve months. No substance-depending functional or morphological damage was recorded.", "PMID": 454085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10974", "title": "[Requirements for the toxicological testing of new pesticides and agents for controlling biological processes].", "content": "Growing amounts of pesticides and plant growth regulators are being used in our time and call for action to ensure safety for man and farm animals. Toxicological rules and requirements are discussed with reference to the legal provisions in the USSR, USA, and FRG. Specifications for toxicological assessment of new preparations have been prepared in the GDR and Poland and are described. Particular emphasis is laid on studies into acute, subacute or subchronic, and chronic toxicity and delayed consequences. Conclusions are suggested and steps discussed to decide tolerances for food and feedstuffs.", "contents": "[Requirements for the toxicological testing of new pesticides and agents for controlling biological processes]. Growing amounts of pesticides and plant growth regulators are being used in our time and call for action to ensure safety for man and farm animals. Toxicological rules and requirements are discussed with reference to the legal provisions in the USSR, USA, and FRG. Specifications for toxicological assessment of new preparations have been prepared in the GDR and Poland and are described. Particular emphasis is laid on studies into acute, subacute or subchronic, and chronic toxicity and delayed consequences. Conclusions are suggested and steps discussed to decide tolerances for food and feedstuffs.", "PMID": 454086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10975", "title": "[Electron microscopic findings in the skeletal musculature of broilers with nutritional encephalomalacia].", "content": "Sings of myopathy were recorded by means of electron microscopy from the skeletal muscles of 20 broiler chickens, aged five and six weeks and suffering from spontaneous nutritional encephalomalacia. Focal deposits of osmiophilic, granular or amorphous matter, intermixed also with membrane fragments and condensed to homogenous osmiophilic bodies, were found quite often in the sarcoplasm. Those deposits were interpreted as lipoproteid complexes (pigmentation due to vitamin E deficit). Also observed were degenerative disorders of compensatory reactions of membraneous fibre organelles (sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria) as well as decomposition of myofibrils and fibre hyalinization. Fibre regeneration and vascular damage occurred less often. Pathogenetically, the changes are interpreted particularly with regard to a membrane-stabilising anti-oxidant action of vitamin E and compared to the selenium-dependent myopathies of ruminants from which primary myofibrillar damage was recordable but no pigment accumulation.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic findings in the skeletal musculature of broilers with nutritional encephalomalacia]. Sings of myopathy were recorded by means of electron microscopy from the skeletal muscles of 20 broiler chickens, aged five and six weeks and suffering from spontaneous nutritional encephalomalacia. Focal deposits of osmiophilic, granular or amorphous matter, intermixed also with membrane fragments and condensed to homogenous osmiophilic bodies, were found quite often in the sarcoplasm. Those deposits were interpreted as lipoproteid complexes (pigmentation due to vitamin E deficit). Also observed were degenerative disorders of compensatory reactions of membraneous fibre organelles (sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria) as well as decomposition of myofibrils and fibre hyalinization. Fibre regeneration and vascular damage occurred less often. Pathogenetically, the changes are interpreted particularly with regard to a membrane-stabilising anti-oxidant action of vitamin E and compared to the selenium-dependent myopathies of ruminants from which primary myofibrillar damage was recordable but no pigment accumulation.", "PMID": 454087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10976", "title": "[Heme binding by the serum proteins of fish].", "content": "Starch gel and disc electrophoretical results about heme binding of serum proteins of fishes (Pike, perch, bream) are reported on. Metheme albumin binding and a hemopexin polymorphism could be detected in all species of the fishes. The problems of differentiation between heme and hemoglobin binding are discussed.", "contents": "[Heme binding by the serum proteins of fish]. Starch gel and disc electrophoretical results about heme binding of serum proteins of fishes (Pike, perch, bream) are reported on. Metheme albumin binding and a hemopexin polymorphism could be detected in all species of the fishes. The problems of differentiation between heme and hemoglobin binding are discussed.", "PMID": 454088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10977", "title": "[Electron microscopic and histochemical studies of the transverse striated musculature of birds after long-term hypokinesia].", "content": "Electromicroscopical and histochemical studies of the gastrocnemius muscle has been carried out in 4 months old cockerels of the laying hybrid after hypokinesis lasting 15 and 30 days. It was found that restricted movement resulted in dystrophic changes of myofibrils, enlargement of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and oedem of interfibrillar spaces. Histochemical studies revealed focuses of increased activity of non-specific esterase decreased activity of dehydrogenase of lactic acid and a positive reaction of acid phosphatase.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic and histochemical studies of the transverse striated musculature of birds after long-term hypokinesia]. Electromicroscopical and histochemical studies of the gastrocnemius muscle has been carried out in 4 months old cockerels of the laying hybrid after hypokinesis lasting 15 and 30 days. It was found that restricted movement resulted in dystrophic changes of myofibrils, enlargement of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and oedem of interfibrillar spaces. Histochemical studies revealed focuses of increased activity of non-specific esterase decreased activity of dehydrogenase of lactic acid and a positive reaction of acid phosphatase.", "PMID": 454089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10978", "title": "[Course of spermiogenesis in the ram].", "content": "Reference is made to transformation of spermatids into sperms. The various phases in the development of ram sperm and transformation of spermatids into sperms are demonstrated by microphotographs. Reference is also made to abnormal forms and types of sperms due to defective development.", "contents": "[Course of spermiogenesis in the ram]. Reference is made to transformation of spermatids into sperms. The various phases in the development of ram sperm and transformation of spermatids into sperms are demonstrated by microphotographs. Reference is also made to abnormal forms and types of sperms due to defective development.", "PMID": 454090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10979", "title": "[Quantifiable morphokinesis of parts of the hypothalamo-adenohypophyseal-gonadal axis of hormonally desexed boars. 4. Studies on boars that have undergone combined treatment with the steroid test substance 547 and norgestrel].", "content": "Steroid test substance 547 and Norgestrel were used in a combination treatment of parts of the hypothalamo-adenohypophyseo-gonadal axis of boars. The quantifiable parameters of the morphokinetic effect thus produced (cell nucleus volumes of Nucleus praeopticus medialis hypothalami and its neurons as well as those of Leydig's cells testicle weight, length and diameter of tube, percentage of Leydig's cells, testicle weight, length and diameter of tube, percentage of Leydig's cells) did not differ significantly from the findings obtained from boars treated with Norgestrel only (cf. Dorst and co-workder, 1978). The same combination treatment, however, differed from exclusive Norgestrel treatment by causing the occurrence of socalled castration cells, which led to the assumption of an anti-androgenic effect of such combination treatment.", "contents": "[Quantifiable morphokinesis of parts of the hypothalamo-adenohypophyseal-gonadal axis of hormonally desexed boars. 4. Studies on boars that have undergone combined treatment with the steroid test substance 547 and norgestrel]. Steroid test substance 547 and Norgestrel were used in a combination treatment of parts of the hypothalamo-adenohypophyseo-gonadal axis of boars. The quantifiable parameters of the morphokinetic effect thus produced (cell nucleus volumes of Nucleus praeopticus medialis hypothalami and its neurons as well as those of Leydig's cells testicle weight, length and diameter of tube, percentage of Leydig's cells, testicle weight, length and diameter of tube, percentage of Leydig's cells) did not differ significantly from the findings obtained from boars treated with Norgestrel only (cf. Dorst and co-workder, 1978). The same combination treatment, however, differed from exclusive Norgestrel treatment by causing the occurrence of socalled castration cells, which led to the assumption of an anti-androgenic effect of such combination treatment.", "PMID": 454091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10980", "title": "Monoamine oxidase inhibitors. A review of antidepressant effectiveness.", "content": "Data from double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors show that phenelzine is clearly effective in neurotic or atypical depressives, but the findings concerning its effect in endogenous depressives are inconclusive. Although few controlled studies have been done with tranylcypromine, similar conclusions are warranted. Studies have contrasted MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) to gain further information about the type of patients likely to respond to MAO inhibitors. We believe that simply contrasting the relative efficacy of TCAs and MAO inhibitors is outdated. Neurotic or atypical depression is probably a heterogeneous syndrome, and delineation of subtypes responsive to specific antidepressants is needed. The implications of fast acetylation, selective MAO inhibitors, types MAOA and MAOB, and measures of platelet MAO inhibition are discussed in this article.", "contents": "Monoamine oxidase inhibitors. A review of antidepressant effectiveness. Data from double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors show that phenelzine is clearly effective in neurotic or atypical depressives, but the findings concerning its effect in endogenous depressives are inconclusive. Although few controlled studies have been done with tranylcypromine, similar conclusions are warranted. Studies have contrasted MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) to gain further information about the type of patients likely to respond to MAO inhibitors. We believe that simply contrasting the relative efficacy of TCAs and MAO inhibitors is outdated. Neurotic or atypical depression is probably a heterogeneous syndrome, and delineation of subtypes responsive to specific antidepressants is needed. The implications of fast acetylation, selective MAO inhibitors, types MAOA and MAOB, and measures of platelet MAO inhibition are discussed in this article.", "PMID": 454092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10981", "title": "Follow-up evaluation of treatment of drug abuse during 1969 to 1972.", "content": "A sample of 3,131 persons from approximately 25,000 admitted to drug abuse treatment programs in the Drug Abuse Reporting Program during 1969-1972 were followed up in 1975-1976. Treatment groups included methadone hydrochloride maintenance, therapeutic community, outpatient drug free, outpatient detoxification, and a comparison group that completed intake but did not enter treatment. Outcome criterion measures (drug use, employment, criminality, and treatment readmissions) based on the first year after treatment were more favorable in the methadone maintenance, therapeutic community, and outpatient drug-free groups than in the outpatient detoxification and intake-only groups. Evaluation of differential outcomes and their relationships with pretreatment and during-treatment measures within each group indicated that pretreatment criminal history, during-treatment performance, and length of time in treatment were significantly related to posttreatment outcomes.", "contents": "Follow-up evaluation of treatment of drug abuse during 1969 to 1972. A sample of 3,131 persons from approximately 25,000 admitted to drug abuse treatment programs in the Drug Abuse Reporting Program during 1969-1972 were followed up in 1975-1976. Treatment groups included methadone hydrochloride maintenance, therapeutic community, outpatient drug free, outpatient detoxification, and a comparison group that completed intake but did not enter treatment. Outcome criterion measures (drug use, employment, criminality, and treatment readmissions) based on the first year after treatment were more favorable in the methadone maintenance, therapeutic community, and outpatient drug-free groups than in the outpatient detoxification and intake-only groups. Evaluation of differential outcomes and their relationships with pretreatment and during-treatment measures within each group indicated that pretreatment criminal history, during-treatment performance, and length of time in treatment were significantly related to posttreatment outcomes.", "PMID": 454093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10982", "title": "Interpersonal effects of marijuana. A model for the study of interpersonal psychopharmacology.", "content": "The effect of marijuana on affective changes and interpersonal skills, including empathy, acceptance, warmth, and genuineness, was studied in 20 dyadic relationships in which the experimental subject smoking marijuana containing 6 mg of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and a placebo in separate trials. Marijuana caused a relative decrease in the ratings of the interpersonal skills of the experimental subjects and decreased affective resonance between the experimental subjects and their partners.", "contents": "Interpersonal effects of marijuana. A model for the study of interpersonal psychopharmacology. The effect of marijuana on affective changes and interpersonal skills, including empathy, acceptance, warmth, and genuineness, was studied in 20 dyadic relationships in which the experimental subject smoking marijuana containing 6 mg of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and a placebo in separate trials. Marijuana caused a relative decrease in the ratings of the interpersonal skills of the experimental subjects and decreased affective resonance between the experimental subjects and their partners.", "PMID": 454094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10983", "title": "Obesity and food choices in public places.", "content": "More than 5,000 food choices were observed at nine eating sites--four where meals were served and five where snacks were served. Caloric content of food choice was strongly affected by eating site and there was great variability in the amount chosen at each site. Men chose somewhat more food than women. Body weight had no overall effect on food choice, although obese people chose somewhat more food than nonobese people at one site--that serving food with the highest caloric content. These findings are consistent with the six earlier studies of food choice, which concluded that the major influence on how much people choose to eat is where they eat, and that there is great variability in the amount they choose at any one site. The presence of obesity is not a major determinant of food choice in public places.", "contents": "Obesity and food choices in public places. More than 5,000 food choices were observed at nine eating sites--four where meals were served and five where snacks were served. Caloric content of food choice was strongly affected by eating site and there was great variability in the amount chosen at each site. Men chose somewhat more food than women. Body weight had no overall effect on food choice, although obese people chose somewhat more food than nonobese people at one site--that serving food with the highest caloric content. These findings are consistent with the six earlier studies of food choice, which concluded that the major influence on how much people choose to eat is where they eat, and that there is great variability in the amount they choose at any one site. The presence of obesity is not a major determinant of food choice in public places.", "PMID": 454095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10984", "title": "Behavior modification in the treatment of obesity. The problem of maintaining weight loss.", "content": "The introduction of behavior modification in the treatment of obesity a decade ago resulted in a substantial increase in weight loss of persons treated for mild to moderate obesity. It has been hoped that this increased effectiveness of treatment would extend also to maintenance of weight loss, and the first controlled clinical trial suggested that it did. This article reports the results of (1) a five-year follow-up of this first trial and (2) all follow-up studies of behavior modification for obesity yet conducted, six published and four previously unpublished. A new method of data analysis shows that weight losses are only modestly maintained, although the question of how their maintenance compares with that of other treatments cannot be answered because comparable data on other treatments are not available. In contrast to the vast amount of work on the initiation and generalization of behavior change, study of its maintenance has been a neglected area of behavior modification. We suggest that this area constitutes a new frontier for research in behavior modification.", "contents": "Behavior modification in the treatment of obesity. The problem of maintaining weight loss. The introduction of behavior modification in the treatment of obesity a decade ago resulted in a substantial increase in weight loss of persons treated for mild to moderate obesity. It has been hoped that this increased effectiveness of treatment would extend also to maintenance of weight loss, and the first controlled clinical trial suggested that it did. This article reports the results of (1) a five-year follow-up of this first trial and (2) all follow-up studies of behavior modification for obesity yet conducted, six published and four previously unpublished. A new method of data analysis shows that weight losses are only modestly maintained, although the question of how their maintenance compares with that of other treatments cannot be answered because comparable data on other treatments are not available. In contrast to the vast amount of work on the initiation and generalization of behavior change, study of its maintenance has been a neglected area of behavior modification. We suggest that this area constitutes a new frontier for research in behavior modification.", "PMID": 454096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10985", "title": "The outcome of behavior therapy for agoraphobia in relation to marital adjustment.", "content": "After intensively treating 18 agoraphobic patients with 13 1/2 hours of exposure in vivo, we examined the effects on both patients and their spouses over a period of six months, using questionnaire measures of symptoms and marital adjustment. Those patients whose marriages were rated as unsatisfactory before treatment improved less during treatment, and were significantly more likely to relapse during follow-up, than those patients with satisfactory marriages. The marriages of nine patients appeared to be adversely influenced by their symptomatic improvement, and two distinct types of marital interaction were observed in relation to this. In one pattern, the patients' symptoms appeared to strengthen aspects of largely affectionless \"compulsory\" marriages; in the other, the patients' symptoms appeared to protect their spouses from recognizing or examining aspects of their own personal and interpersonal problems.", "contents": "The outcome of behavior therapy for agoraphobia in relation to marital adjustment. After intensively treating 18 agoraphobic patients with 13 1/2 hours of exposure in vivo, we examined the effects on both patients and their spouses over a period of six months, using questionnaire measures of symptoms and marital adjustment. Those patients whose marriages were rated as unsatisfactory before treatment improved less during treatment, and were significantly more likely to relapse during follow-up, than those patients with satisfactory marriages. The marriages of nine patients appeared to be adversely influenced by their symptomatic improvement, and two distinct types of marital interaction were observed in relation to this. In one pattern, the patients' symptoms appeared to strengthen aspects of largely affectionless \"compulsory\" marriages; in the other, the patients' symptoms appeared to protect their spouses from recognizing or examining aspects of their own personal and interpersonal problems.", "PMID": 454097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10986", "title": "Behavioral response to vasectomy.", "content": "This article reviews the literature concerning the behavioral and psychological response of men and their wives to the vasectomy operation when used as a contraceptive technique. The data suggest that two primary changes may frequently be observed postoperatively. Individuals who have experienced anxiety in conjunction with intercourse because of a fear of contraceptive failure or pregnancy tend to report a decline in anxiety and a disinhibition of sexual arousal postoperatively. Also, test results suggest that behavoir patterns within the marital dyad are altered in some cases when the men adopt stereotyped masculine behavior, presumably to deny any suggestion that they are less masculine because of the operation. Ramifications of these findings as well as numerous other speculations, are considered, along with the suggestion that prescreening and postvasectomy counseling may help reduce negative response to the operation.", "contents": "Behavioral response to vasectomy. This article reviews the literature concerning the behavioral and psychological response of men and their wives to the vasectomy operation when used as a contraceptive technique. The data suggest that two primary changes may frequently be observed postoperatively. Individuals who have experienced anxiety in conjunction with intercourse because of a fear of contraceptive failure or pregnancy tend to report a decline in anxiety and a disinhibition of sexual arousal postoperatively. Also, test results suggest that behavoir patterns within the marital dyad are altered in some cases when the men adopt stereotyped masculine behavior, presumably to deny any suggestion that they are less masculine because of the operation. Ramifications of these findings as well as numerous other speculations, are considered, along with the suggestion that prescreening and postvasectomy counseling may help reduce negative response to the operation.", "PMID": 454098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10987", "title": "Observations on vaginismus in Irish women.", "content": "This article describes a group of 23 Irish women with vaginismus. This figure represents 42% of the total female referrals to the author, and is quite high when compared with other reports. The type of treatment before referral, and the characteristics of the patients, tend to confirm the author's diagnosis, which was made only after vaginal examination. Social and cultural factors unique to Ireland are believed to be of importance in the clinical presentation of this form of sexual dysfunction. A number of differences are seen when women with vaginismus are compared with those who complain of orgasmic dysfunction. These differences relate to childhood experiences, their perception of their marriage, and their sexual dysfunction. The success rate, number of sessions required for treatment, and recovery rate at follow-up are described for vaginismus. All women with this condition who persisted with treatment recovered, whereas those described as failures stopped within three visits. The author believes that the therapeutic claims of sex therapists in recent years must be viewed critically, as self-selection seems to be an important influence on prognosis.", "contents": "Observations on vaginismus in Irish women. This article describes a group of 23 Irish women with vaginismus. This figure represents 42% of the total female referrals to the author, and is quite high when compared with other reports. The type of treatment before referral, and the characteristics of the patients, tend to confirm the author's diagnosis, which was made only after vaginal examination. Social and cultural factors unique to Ireland are believed to be of importance in the clinical presentation of this form of sexual dysfunction. A number of differences are seen when women with vaginismus are compared with those who complain of orgasmic dysfunction. These differences relate to childhood experiences, their perception of their marriage, and their sexual dysfunction. The success rate, number of sessions required for treatment, and recovery rate at follow-up are described for vaginismus. All women with this condition who persisted with treatment recovered, whereas those described as failures stopped within three visits. The author believes that the therapeutic claims of sex therapists in recent years must be viewed critically, as self-selection seems to be an important influence on prognosis.", "PMID": 454099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10988", "title": "Muscular hypertonia: quantitative analysis.", "content": "By a statistical method of analysis, the force applied to move a limb passively can be translated into physiologically relevant parameters relating to the muscle. The parameters identified and measured are the dynamic and static activity of the muscle and their interactions with the varying length of the muscle during stretch. This method of analysis has been shown to be of assistance in evaluating the reflex status of persons with central nervous system disorders in preparation for treatment and in measuring the effects of treatment.", "contents": "Muscular hypertonia: quantitative analysis. By a statistical method of analysis, the force applied to move a limb passively can be translated into physiologically relevant parameters relating to the muscle. The parameters identified and measured are the dynamic and static activity of the muscle and their interactions with the varying length of the muscle during stretch. This method of analysis has been shown to be of assistance in evaluating the reflex status of persons with central nervous system disorders in preparation for treatment and in measuring the effects of treatment.", "PMID": 454113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10989", "title": "Reliability of quantitative strength measurements in children.", "content": "In normal children, sex, age, height and weight account for approximately 50% to 70% of variance in the strength scores obtained by quantitative measurements. Although quantitative techniques accurately measure the forces generated by muscle contraction, technical and psychological variables may cause some inconsistency of scores and contribute to the variance observed. To explore the role of these factors, reliability of quantitative strength measurements was examined in children withe normal intelligence and with mild mental retardation using the isokinetic method. Results showed mean score deviations of 5.3% to 5.8% for different muscle groups within the same test. When testing was repeated by the same examiners 7 to 10 days apart, mean score deviations were 7.9% to 9.8% in various muscle groups. Repeated measurements by different examiners 7 to 10 days later yielded 8.7% to 10% mean score deviations for various muscles. Statistical analyses showed that these differences were not significant. Technical and behavioral aspects of test performance are not an important source of inaccuracy and, therefore, cannot contribute significantly to the variance of scores.", "contents": "Reliability of quantitative strength measurements in children. In normal children, sex, age, height and weight account for approximately 50% to 70% of variance in the strength scores obtained by quantitative measurements. Although quantitative techniques accurately measure the forces generated by muscle contraction, technical and psychological variables may cause some inconsistency of scores and contribute to the variance observed. To explore the role of these factors, reliability of quantitative strength measurements was examined in children withe normal intelligence and with mild mental retardation using the isokinetic method. Results showed mean score deviations of 5.3% to 5.8% for different muscle groups within the same test. When testing was repeated by the same examiners 7 to 10 days apart, mean score deviations were 7.9% to 9.8% in various muscle groups. Repeated measurements by different examiners 7 to 10 days later yielded 8.7% to 10% mean score deviations for various muscles. Statistical analyses showed that these differences were not significant. Technical and behavioral aspects of test performance are not an important source of inaccuracy and, therefore, cannot contribute significantly to the variance of scores.", "PMID": 454114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10990", "title": "Training appropriate eating behavior in a pediatric rehabilitation setting: case study.", "content": "The study demonstrates an effective operant conditioning treatment technique to train appropriate eating behavior in a child with brain damage. The child, a 7-year-old boy, received the training during brief hospitalization in a pediatric rehabilitation unit. The principal treatment modality consisted of verbal commands, praise, and manual guidance. During 2 baseline meals the child ate appropriately on the average of 21% of the time. Rapid improvement in correct eating responses occurred during the first week of treatment, reaching a level of 100% in 2 of the last 4 training meals. Following withdrawal of treatment, correct responses decreased to an average of 69%. When treatment was resumed the child reached a correct eating response level of more than 90% on the fifth meal. This level of performance was maintained when hospital staff and the child's mother were introduced into the program. The child's teacher was trained in the technique prior to his discharge from the hospital. School follow-up of more than 15 weeks indicated proper performance had been maintained at more than 90%. High levels of appropriate eating behavior can be learned in the hospital and generalized to the home and school if parents and teachers are actively engaged in rehabilitation efforts.", "contents": "Training appropriate eating behavior in a pediatric rehabilitation setting: case study. The study demonstrates an effective operant conditioning treatment technique to train appropriate eating behavior in a child with brain damage. The child, a 7-year-old boy, received the training during brief hospitalization in a pediatric rehabilitation unit. The principal treatment modality consisted of verbal commands, praise, and manual guidance. During 2 baseline meals the child ate appropriately on the average of 21% of the time. Rapid improvement in correct eating responses occurred during the first week of treatment, reaching a level of 100% in 2 of the last 4 training meals. Following withdrawal of treatment, correct responses decreased to an average of 69%. When treatment was resumed the child reached a correct eating response level of more than 90% on the fifth meal. This level of performance was maintained when hospital staff and the child's mother were introduced into the program. The child's teacher was trained in the technique prior to his discharge from the hospital. School follow-up of more than 15 weeks indicated proper performance had been maintained at more than 90%. High levels of appropriate eating behavior can be learned in the hospital and generalized to the home and school if parents and teachers are actively engaged in rehabilitation efforts.", "PMID": 454115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10991", "title": "Teaching the concepts of rehabilitation in a primary care setting.", "content": "To teach the concepts of rehabilitation to undergraduates in a clinical, primary-care setting, it is essential to first mobilize student awareness regarding patient dysfunction. After some sensitivity has developed, faculty can focus on rehabilitation theories and processes. This method of teaching is generally accepted positively by students. A daily chart review has proved useful for identifying rehabilitation issues for students and is suggested for other health care agencies as a practical way to promote rehabilitation among primary-care providers.", "contents": "Teaching the concepts of rehabilitation in a primary care setting. To teach the concepts of rehabilitation to undergraduates in a clinical, primary-care setting, it is essential to first mobilize student awareness regarding patient dysfunction. After some sensitivity has developed, faculty can focus on rehabilitation theories and processes. This method of teaching is generally accepted positively by students. A daily chart review has proved useful for identifying rehabilitation issues for students and is suggested for other health care agencies as a practical way to promote rehabilitation among primary-care providers.", "PMID": 454116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10992", "title": "Environmental and typewriter control systems for high-level quadriplegic patients: evaluation and prescription.", "content": "A formal 44-month clinical evaluation was conducted to determine the suitability of selected electronic equipment for use in high-level quadriplegia. A total of 52 traumatic high-level quadriplegic patients (C-2 to C-5,6) participated in the testing of 13 commercial electronic assistive devices including 8 environmental control units, 1 self-contained telephone, and 4 typewriter systems. Most devices were pneumatically (\"breath\") controlled. Devices were tested in an occupational therapy laboratory, bedside, and homes. Testing yielded data on device reliability, suitability, and acceptance by patients.", "contents": "Environmental and typewriter control systems for high-level quadriplegic patients: evaluation and prescription. A formal 44-month clinical evaluation was conducted to determine the suitability of selected electronic equipment for use in high-level quadriplegia. A total of 52 traumatic high-level quadriplegic patients (C-2 to C-5,6) participated in the testing of 13 commercial electronic assistive devices including 8 environmental control units, 1 self-contained telephone, and 4 typewriter systems. Most devices were pneumatically (\"breath\") controlled. Devices were tested in an occupational therapy laboratory, bedside, and homes. Testing yielded data on device reliability, suitability, and acceptance by patients.", "PMID": 454117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10993", "title": "Spinal cord injury: a comparison of preinjury and postinjury marriages.", "content": "A study of the preinjury and postinjury marriages of 55 spinal cord injured persons and their partners revealed several differences between the relationships. Although all patients had comparable levels of spinal cord injury, the disabled persons in preinjury marriages were judged to have less motivation for independence; a larger proportion of them received daily personal care assistance from their spouses. Furthermore, those in postinjury marriages were more likely to be employed and were judged to be better adjusted psychologically. Psychologists' assessment of marriages based on interviews with the spinal cord injured subjects and their spouses revealed that the postinjury marriages were happier than the preinjury marriages. Possible explanations for these findings are discussed, which include age and state of health, the impact of disability on the marital relationship and the personal assets of disabled persons who attract new partners.", "contents": "Spinal cord injury: a comparison of preinjury and postinjury marriages. A study of the preinjury and postinjury marriages of 55 spinal cord injured persons and their partners revealed several differences between the relationships. Although all patients had comparable levels of spinal cord injury, the disabled persons in preinjury marriages were judged to have less motivation for independence; a larger proportion of them received daily personal care assistance from their spouses. Furthermore, those in postinjury marriages were more likely to be employed and were judged to be better adjusted psychologically. Psychologists' assessment of marriages based on interviews with the spinal cord injured subjects and their spouses revealed that the postinjury marriages were happier than the preinjury marriages. Possible explanations for these findings are discussed, which include age and state of health, the impact of disability on the marital relationship and the personal assets of disabled persons who attract new partners.", "PMID": 454118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10994", "title": "Pulmonary function in quadriplegia: effects of a corset.", "content": "Fifteen quadriplegic patients underwent multiple pulmonary function studies performed in 2 positions, sitting and supine, and in both positions under 2 circumstances, wearing and not wearing a corset. Analysis of variance showed that 3 volumes were significantly improved (p less than 0.05) supine, especially without the corset: vital capacity (C), inspiratory capacity (IC) and tidal volume (Vt). Although most pulmonary function tests were improved when the patients were supine the trends when sitting were for improvement when wearing a corset. Most of these patients were studied at least 1 year postinjury and results are not substantially different from those 6 months postinjury. Corsets do not have an untoward effect on pulmonary function tests.", "contents": "Pulmonary function in quadriplegia: effects of a corset. Fifteen quadriplegic patients underwent multiple pulmonary function studies performed in 2 positions, sitting and supine, and in both positions under 2 circumstances, wearing and not wearing a corset. Analysis of variance showed that 3 volumes were significantly improved (p less than 0.05) supine, especially without the corset: vital capacity (C), inspiratory capacity (IC) and tidal volume (Vt). Although most pulmonary function tests were improved when the patients were supine the trends when sitting were for improvement when wearing a corset. Most of these patients were studied at least 1 year postinjury and results are not substantially different from those 6 months postinjury. Corsets do not have an untoward effect on pulmonary function tests.", "PMID": 454119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10995", "title": "Detrusor muscle and sphincteric response to anorectal stimulation in spinal cord injury.", "content": "Twelve patients with spinal cord injuries were studied to determine whether the anal sphincter could be used as an index of urethral sphincter activity and to determine the bladder and striated sphincter response to anal and rectal stimulation. Electromyogram (emg) needle electrodes were placed in the external urethral sphincter, external anal sphincter and levator ani. The output of a cystometer was simultaneously recorded on the printout so that the relationship of the striated muscle response to distension of the bladder could be observed. The response to inserting a finger into the external anal canal, external anal sphincter stretch and rectal balloon distension was also observed. The external urethral and anal sphincter activity was closely linked during bladder contraction and anorectal stimulation. The levator ani showed divergent activity. Stretch of the external anal sphincter caused an initial period of increased striated muscle activity, then in 10 of 12 patients abrupt and often marked inhibition of both sphincters and levator ani developed with continued stretch. Ongoing bladder contractions were inhibited and a decrease in bladder tone developed in 7 of 12. Stretch of the rectum produced results similar to those with anal stretch except that bladder facilitation was seen in 4 of 12 patients.", "contents": "Detrusor muscle and sphincteric response to anorectal stimulation in spinal cord injury. Twelve patients with spinal cord injuries were studied to determine whether the anal sphincter could be used as an index of urethral sphincter activity and to determine the bladder and striated sphincter response to anal and rectal stimulation. Electromyogram (emg) needle electrodes were placed in the external urethral sphincter, external anal sphincter and levator ani. The output of a cystometer was simultaneously recorded on the printout so that the relationship of the striated muscle response to distension of the bladder could be observed. The response to inserting a finger into the external anal canal, external anal sphincter stretch and rectal balloon distension was also observed. The external urethral and anal sphincter activity was closely linked during bladder contraction and anorectal stimulation. The levator ani showed divergent activity. Stretch of the external anal sphincter caused an initial period of increased striated muscle activity, then in 10 of 12 patients abrupt and often marked inhibition of both sphincters and levator ani developed with continued stretch. Ongoing bladder contractions were inhibited and a decrease in bladder tone developed in 7 of 12. Stretch of the rectum produced results similar to those with anal stretch except that bladder facilitation was seen in 4 of 12 patients.", "PMID": 454120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10996", "title": "Doppler ultrasonography for detection of deep vein thrombosis in lower extremities.", "content": "Doppler ultrasonography, a rapid, noninvasive and portable technique, has been available to clinicians for more than 10 years, but its accuracy in detecting deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been questioned. A consistent and detailed method for testing venous circulation in the lower extremities is described. This method was used in a prospective study in which results of 50 phlebograms were compared with those of the Doppler test. A specificity of 92% and sensitivity of 100% were demonstrated, indicating that Doppler ultrasonography is a useful and accurate screening test for DVT.", "contents": "Doppler ultrasonography for detection of deep vein thrombosis in lower extremities. Doppler ultrasonography, a rapid, noninvasive and portable technique, has been available to clinicians for more than 10 years, but its accuracy in detecting deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been questioned. A consistent and detailed method for testing venous circulation in the lower extremities is described. This method was used in a prospective study in which results of 50 phlebograms were compared with those of the Doppler test. A specificity of 92% and sensitivity of 100% were demonstrated, indicating that Doppler ultrasonography is a useful and accurate screening test for DVT.", "PMID": 454121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10997", "title": "Intact heel decubitus: an innovative treatment with a special cleansing sponge.", "content": "An innovative treatment of intact blue-black heel decubitus with a nonmedicated cleansing sponge was investigated. Forty-five patients over an 18-month period were identified with this type of decubitus and were treated tid for 21 days with a soak and massage of the heel. Analysis of variance was based on changes in size, color, and pliability of decubitus.", "contents": "Intact heel decubitus: an innovative treatment with a special cleansing sponge. An innovative treatment of intact blue-black heel decubitus with a nonmedicated cleansing sponge was investigated. Forty-five patients over an 18-month period were identified with this type of decubitus and were treated tid for 21 days with a soak and massage of the heel. Analysis of variance was based on changes in size, color, and pliability of decubitus.", "PMID": 454122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10998", "title": "Mechanical ventilation of patients with late stage Duchenne muscular dystrophy: management in the home.", "content": "Death in the late stage of Duchenne muscular dystrophy is most frequently a consequence of respiratory failure. Since muscles of ventilation become weakened the bellows mechanism fails insidiously. Patients exhibit symptoms of ventilatory insufficiency, the first to be noticed are those associated with CO2 retention: dyspnea, nightmares, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Ten patients with late stage Duchenne muscular dystrophy have been supplied with mechanical aid for ventilatory assistance. The age of onset of respiratory distress needing mechanical assistance varied from 10 to 20 years. Meaningful survival after allegedly reaching the end stage has been from 2 to 7.5 years with an average of 3.4 years. With a caring family, these patients can have a meaningful life, even though they require continuous mechanical ventilatory aid.", "contents": "Mechanical ventilation of patients with late stage Duchenne muscular dystrophy: management in the home. Death in the late stage of Duchenne muscular dystrophy is most frequently a consequence of respiratory failure. Since muscles of ventilation become weakened the bellows mechanism fails insidiously. Patients exhibit symptoms of ventilatory insufficiency, the first to be noticed are those associated with CO2 retention: dyspnea, nightmares, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Ten patients with late stage Duchenne muscular dystrophy have been supplied with mechanical aid for ventilatory assistance. The age of onset of respiratory distress needing mechanical assistance varied from 10 to 20 years. Meaningful survival after allegedly reaching the end stage has been from 2 to 7.5 years with an average of 3.4 years. With a caring family, these patients can have a meaningful life, even though they require continuous mechanical ventilatory aid.", "PMID": 454124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_10999", "title": "Energy costs of below-knee prostheses using two types of suspension.", "content": "The choice of suspension in below-knee prosthetics poses a problem for the clinician because cuff suspension weighs less than side-joint-thigh corset suspension but the latter offers more stability. The energy costs of one compared with the other is of prime consideration when dealing with the older person after an amputation. To determine the energy costs of cuff and side-joint-thigh corset suspension, 17 patients were selected for study. A sepcial prosthetic bucket was fabricated for each patient and designed so that the suspensions could be quickly and easily interchanged. Trials with each method of suspension were carried out before and after a training period, and the cardiorespiratory parameters were measured. After the training period all patients demonstrated less oxygen consumption, but the type of suspension did not affect energy costs.", "contents": "Energy costs of below-knee prostheses using two types of suspension. The choice of suspension in below-knee prosthetics poses a problem for the clinician because cuff suspension weighs less than side-joint-thigh corset suspension but the latter offers more stability. The energy costs of one compared with the other is of prime consideration when dealing with the older person after an amputation. To determine the energy costs of cuff and side-joint-thigh corset suspension, 17 patients were selected for study. A sepcial prosthetic bucket was fabricated for each patient and designed so that the suspensions could be quickly and easily interchanged. Trials with each method of suspension were carried out before and after a training period, and the cardiorespiratory parameters were measured. After the training period all patients demonstrated less oxygen consumption, but the type of suspension did not affect energy costs.", "PMID": 454125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11000", "title": "Oxygen concumtpion and biochemistry of Australian women physiotherapists.", "content": "Oxygen consumption and related spirometric, biochemical, and anthropometric variables were measured in 28 practicing Australian women physiotherapists at 3 teaching hospitals. Heart rate while on ward duty was also measured in 2 randomly selected physiotherapists. The majority of measurements were found to be within normal limits for Australian women and consistent with women of similar age in occupational groups in other countries, except for body fat, which was lower, and maximum oxygen consumption, which was higher. The later exceptions are believed to be the result of the physical work required of Australian women physiotherapists.", "contents": "Oxygen concumtpion and biochemistry of Australian women physiotherapists. Oxygen consumption and related spirometric, biochemical, and anthropometric variables were measured in 28 practicing Australian women physiotherapists at 3 teaching hospitals. Heart rate while on ward duty was also measured in 2 randomly selected physiotherapists. The majority of measurements were found to be within normal limits for Australian women and consistent with women of similar age in occupational groups in other countries, except for body fat, which was lower, and maximum oxygen consumption, which was higher. The later exceptions are believed to be the result of the physical work required of Australian women physiotherapists.", "PMID": 454126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11001", "title": "Hydrotherapy burn treatment: use of chloramine-T against resistant microorganisms.", "content": "The presence of highly resistant gram-negative microogranisms is an area of major concern in the treatment of burned patients. Criteria for the germicide used for hydrotherapy must include effectiveness against the organism, absence of gross side effects, and conservation of human effort and materials. In the program described, these criteria seem to be successfully met. Microbial samplings from numerous patients and repeated examinations of residue taken from equipment demonstrate the elimination of pseudomonas and other gram-negative organisms.", "contents": "Hydrotherapy burn treatment: use of chloramine-T against resistant microorganisms. The presence of highly resistant gram-negative microogranisms is an area of major concern in the treatment of burned patients. Criteria for the germicide used for hydrotherapy must include effectiveness against the organism, absence of gross side effects, and conservation of human effort and materials. In the program described, these criteria seem to be successfully met. Microbial samplings from numerous patients and repeated examinations of residue taken from equipment demonstrate the elimination of pseudomonas and other gram-negative organisms.", "PMID": 454127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11002", "title": "Conduction velocity in the proximal sural nerve.", "content": "Sensory conduction velocity in the proximal portion of the sural nerve differs significantly from that in the distal portion and is less variable. Its determination should improved the value and accuracy of the electroneurographic examination of this nerve. Antidromic conduction velocities in 3 contiguous nerve segments of 10cm each, were determined in 102 sural nerves in normal subjects. The mean velocity in the most distal segment was 33.9 +/- 3.25m/sec. The mean velocities for the middle and most proximal segments were 51.0 +/- 3.8m/sec and 51.6 +/- 3.8m/sec respectively and were not significantly different. There was a positive correlation between conduction velocities and skin temperatures below 84F (28.9C), and no correlation for temperatures above 84F. A sural communicating branch from the common peroneal nerve was demonstrated by electrical stimulation in 9 of 107 cases. The results showed that proximal conduction velocity determination in the sural nerve is a practical procedure.", "contents": "Conduction velocity in the proximal sural nerve. Sensory conduction velocity in the proximal portion of the sural nerve differs significantly from that in the distal portion and is less variable. Its determination should improved the value and accuracy of the electroneurographic examination of this nerve. Antidromic conduction velocities in 3 contiguous nerve segments of 10cm each, were determined in 102 sural nerves in normal subjects. The mean velocity in the most distal segment was 33.9 +/- 3.25m/sec. The mean velocities for the middle and most proximal segments were 51.0 +/- 3.8m/sec and 51.6 +/- 3.8m/sec respectively and were not significantly different. There was a positive correlation between conduction velocities and skin temperatures below 84F (28.9C), and no correlation for temperatures above 84F. A sural communicating branch from the common peroneal nerve was demonstrated by electrical stimulation in 9 of 107 cases. The results showed that proximal conduction velocity determination in the sural nerve is a practical procedure.", "PMID": 454128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11003", "title": "Shear vs pressure as causative factors in skin blood flow occlusion.", "content": "An instrument was developed to measure the external pressure, shear, and pulsatile arteriolar blood flow existent at a given portion of the anatomy. Application of this device to the thenar eminence of 4 healthy subjects showed that externally applied pressure was approximately twice as effective as shear in reducing pulsatile arteriolar blood flow. The combination of pressure plus shear was found particularly effective in promoting blood flow occlusion. At a sufficiently high level of shear (roughly 100 g/cm2) the pressure necessary to produce occlusion was half that required when little shear was present.", "contents": "Shear vs pressure as causative factors in skin blood flow occlusion. An instrument was developed to measure the external pressure, shear, and pulsatile arteriolar blood flow existent at a given portion of the anatomy. Application of this device to the thenar eminence of 4 healthy subjects showed that externally applied pressure was approximately twice as effective as shear in reducing pulsatile arteriolar blood flow. The combination of pressure plus shear was found particularly effective in promoting blood flow occlusion. At a sufficiently high level of shear (roughly 100 g/cm2) the pressure necessary to produce occlusion was half that required when little shear was present.", "PMID": 454129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11004", "title": "Breast pain: a symptom of cervical radiculopathy.", "content": "Eighteen women, all of whom had extensive but noninformative breast evaluations, including 10 mammograms and 4 biopies, were successfully treated by cervical traction for chronic breast pain. Each patient had distinct clinical or electromyographic evidence of cervical root compromise. Fifteen had roentgenographic evidence of cervical spondylosis, primarily at levels C6 and C7. Cervical angina, as a symptom constellation produced by cervical radiculopathy and mimicking coronary ischemic disease, is a well-defined entity. Less well recognized is persistent breast pain as a primary presenting symptom of cervical root compromise. In both instances, the early identification of the cervical radicular origin of the pain, with its quite different prognosis and associated therapeutic implications, can promptly help to allay the patient's physical and psychologic discomfort. The pathologic mechanism of pain production and the anatomic pattern of referral are described.", "contents": "Breast pain: a symptom of cervical radiculopathy. Eighteen women, all of whom had extensive but noninformative breast evaluations, including 10 mammograms and 4 biopies, were successfully treated by cervical traction for chronic breast pain. Each patient had distinct clinical or electromyographic evidence of cervical root compromise. Fifteen had roentgenographic evidence of cervical spondylosis, primarily at levels C6 and C7. Cervical angina, as a symptom constellation produced by cervical radiculopathy and mimicking coronary ischemic disease, is a well-defined entity. Less well recognized is persistent breast pain as a primary presenting symptom of cervical root compromise. In both instances, the early identification of the cervical radicular origin of the pain, with its quite different prognosis and associated therapeutic implications, can promptly help to allay the patient's physical and psychologic discomfort. The pathologic mechanism of pain production and the anatomic pattern of referral are described.", "PMID": 454130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11005", "title": "Semimembranosus insertion syndrome: a treatable and frequent cause of persistent knee pain.", "content": "The semimembranosus insertion syndrome causes pain at the medial aspect of the knee. This pain is aggravated by exercise, walking downstairs and sharp bending of the knee. The patient experiences tender, moderately puffy swelling at the lowest part of the medial hamstrings muscles and painful passive rotation of the knee, while finger pressure over the insertion of the semimembranosus tendon elicits sharp pain. One hundred patients with semimembranosus insertion syndrome were treated with local injection of lidocaine hydrochloride and triamcinolone. All experienced temporary relief of pain immediately. Long-lasting relief of signs and symptoms was achieved in 58 patients, 30 of whom required repeat injections in 3 to 5 months. Pain decreased and disability was less severe in 9 other patients. There were 18 treatment failure, and 15 patients were lost to follow-up.", "contents": "Semimembranosus insertion syndrome: a treatable and frequent cause of persistent knee pain. The semimembranosus insertion syndrome causes pain at the medial aspect of the knee. This pain is aggravated by exercise, walking downstairs and sharp bending of the knee. The patient experiences tender, moderately puffy swelling at the lowest part of the medial hamstrings muscles and painful passive rotation of the knee, while finger pressure over the insertion of the semimembranosus tendon elicits sharp pain. One hundred patients with semimembranosus insertion syndrome were treated with local injection of lidocaine hydrochloride and triamcinolone. All experienced temporary relief of pain immediately. Long-lasting relief of signs and symptoms was achieved in 58 patients, 30 of whom required repeat injections in 3 to 5 months. Pain decreased and disability was less severe in 9 other patients. There were 18 treatment failure, and 15 patients were lost to follow-up.", "PMID": 454131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11006", "title": "Electromyographic changes reviewed in chronic spinal arachnoiditis.", "content": "A retrospective study was done to determine if specific electromyographic findings are present in spinal arachnoiditis. The electromyographic (emg) findings in 32 surgically and 35 myelographically diagnosed cases were examined. The cases were categorized into 3 groups. The 1st groups consisted of 37 cases with surgical or myelographic evidence believed to be highly diagnostic of multilevel chronic spinal arachnoiditis. The 2nd group was composed of 23 cases with surgical or myelographic evidence consistent with a localized problem. The 3rd group was a control group with normal or minimal changes on myelography or at surgery. Electromyographic findings were divided into 3 groups of changes: localized, nonlocalized or normal. Localized emg changes were considered to be present over 2 or less root levels in either or both anterior or posterior primary ramus distribution. Nonlocalized changes occurred over more than 2 such levels. A comparative analysis of the myelographic and surgical findings with the emg changes indicated that there was not diagnostic emg picture indicative of chronic spinal arachnoiditis.", "contents": "Electromyographic changes reviewed in chronic spinal arachnoiditis. A retrospective study was done to determine if specific electromyographic findings are present in spinal arachnoiditis. The electromyographic (emg) findings in 32 surgically and 35 myelographically diagnosed cases were examined. The cases were categorized into 3 groups. The 1st groups consisted of 37 cases with surgical or myelographic evidence believed to be highly diagnostic of multilevel chronic spinal arachnoiditis. The 2nd group was composed of 23 cases with surgical or myelographic evidence consistent with a localized problem. The 3rd group was a control group with normal or minimal changes on myelography or at surgery. Electromyographic findings were divided into 3 groups of changes: localized, nonlocalized or normal. Localized emg changes were considered to be present over 2 or less root levels in either or both anterior or posterior primary ramus distribution. Nonlocalized changes occurred over more than 2 such levels. A comparative analysis of the myelographic and surgical findings with the emg changes indicated that there was not diagnostic emg picture indicative of chronic spinal arachnoiditis.", "PMID": 454132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11007", "title": "Transverse myelopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "There have been 28 reported cases of transverse myelopathy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. In a 6-month period, the authors saw 2 new cases. Both of these patients were young women (29 and 31 years old) who had received a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus prior to the onset of the transverse myelopathy. The case histories of the 2 patients are reported in detail and the findings are compared with those of previously reported cases. The rehabilitation program and outcome are described. Systemic lupus erythematosus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of transverse myelopathy because there may be many unsuspected cases.", "contents": "Transverse myelopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus. There have been 28 reported cases of transverse myelopathy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. In a 6-month period, the authors saw 2 new cases. Both of these patients were young women (29 and 31 years old) who had received a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus prior to the onset of the transverse myelopathy. The case histories of the 2 patients are reported in detail and the findings are compared with those of previously reported cases. The rehabilitation program and outcome are described. Systemic lupus erythematosus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of transverse myelopathy because there may be many unsuspected cases.", "PMID": 454133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11008", "title": "Femoral nerve palsy: compression by lymph glands in the inguinal region.", "content": "Femoral neuropathy caused by compression of the femoral nerve is not a common syndrome when compared with other compression neuropathies. In most cases reported, the compression was intraabdominal, either in the retroperitoneal region or in the course of the nerve through the psoas major muscle. In this case, the lesion was located extraabdominally. Enlarged and inflamed nodes in the inguinal region caused compression of the nerve resulting in femoral neuropathy. Electromyography (emg) and nerve conduction studies revealed that the lesion was neurapraxia. As expected, the condition was reversible; the patient responded to treatment of the inflamed glands and to physical therapy. The use of emg was helpful for confirming the diagnosis and making the prognosis.", "contents": "Femoral nerve palsy: compression by lymph glands in the inguinal region. Femoral neuropathy caused by compression of the femoral nerve is not a common syndrome when compared with other compression neuropathies. In most cases reported, the compression was intraabdominal, either in the retroperitoneal region or in the course of the nerve through the psoas major muscle. In this case, the lesion was located extraabdominally. Enlarged and inflamed nodes in the inguinal region caused compression of the nerve resulting in femoral neuropathy. Electromyography (emg) and nerve conduction studies revealed that the lesion was neurapraxia. As expected, the condition was reversible; the patient responded to treatment of the inflamed glands and to physical therapy. The use of emg was helpful for confirming the diagnosis and making the prognosis.", "PMID": 454134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11009", "title": "Speech and respiration.", "content": "This investigation deals with the temporal aspects of air volume changes during speech. Speech respiration differs fundamentally from resting respiration. In resting respiration the duration and velocity of inspiration (air flow or lung volume change) are in a range similar to that of expiration. In speech respiration the duration of inspiration decreases and its velocity increases; conversely, the duration of expiration increases and the volume of air flow decreases dramatically. The following questions arise: are these two respiration types different entities, or do they represent the end points of a continuum from resting to speech respiration? How does articulation without the generation of speech sound affect breathing? Does (verbalized?) thinking without articulation or speech modify the breathing pattern? The main test battery included four tasks (spontaneous speech, reading, serial speech, arithmetic) performed under three conditions (speaking aloud, articulating subvocally, quiet performance by tryping to exclusively 'think' the tasks). Respiratory movements were measured with a chest pneumograph and evaluated in comparison with a phonogram and the identified spoken text. For quiet performance the resulting respiratory time ratio (relation of duration of inspiration versus expiration) showed a gradual shift in the direction of speech respiration--the least for reading, the most for arithmetic. This change was even more apparent for the subvocal tasks. It is concluded that (a) there is a gradual automatic change from resting to speech respiration and (b) the degree of internal verbalization (activation of motor speech areas) defines the degree of activation of the speech respiratory pattern.", "contents": "Speech and respiration. This investigation deals with the temporal aspects of air volume changes during speech. Speech respiration differs fundamentally from resting respiration. In resting respiration the duration and velocity of inspiration (air flow or lung volume change) are in a range similar to that of expiration. In speech respiration the duration of inspiration decreases and its velocity increases; conversely, the duration of expiration increases and the volume of air flow decreases dramatically. The following questions arise: are these two respiration types different entities, or do they represent the end points of a continuum from resting to speech respiration? How does articulation without the generation of speech sound affect breathing? Does (verbalized?) thinking without articulation or speech modify the breathing pattern? The main test battery included four tasks (spontaneous speech, reading, serial speech, arithmetic) performed under three conditions (speaking aloud, articulating subvocally, quiet performance by tryping to exclusively 'think' the tasks). Respiratory movements were measured with a chest pneumograph and evaluated in comparison with a phonogram and the identified spoken text. For quiet performance the resulting respiratory time ratio (relation of duration of inspiration versus expiration) showed a gradual shift in the direction of speech respiration--the least for reading, the most for arithmetic. This change was even more apparent for the subvocal tasks. It is concluded that (a) there is a gradual automatic change from resting to speech respiration and (b) the degree of internal verbalization (activation of motor speech areas) defines the degree of activation of the speech respiratory pattern.", "PMID": 454139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11010", "title": "[Studies on the psychopathology of adults with 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm (author's transl)].", "content": "Nineteen subjects (10 males and 9 females, aged between 18 and 61 years) with an occipital 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm were tested using a multidimensional psychological test program. The program consisted of the IST of Amthauer, the Raven Test, the German version of the MMPI (\"MMPI Saarbr\u00fccken\"), the Cattell 16-PF-questionnaire, Brickenkamp's d2-Test, and a test battery for psychomotor impairment. A group of normal persons with a regular alpha EEG, matched according to sex and age, was used to provide test norms for the 4-5 c/s EEG group. No difference in intelligence was found, but statistically significant differences were found in some personality traits in the MMPI and the 16-PF-questionnaire. Taking into consideration that the 4-5 c/s EEG group of the study is a subjective sample not randomly selected, this study showed that the male subjects with a 4-5 c/s rhythm as more sensitive, more tender and gentle, more anxious, and less tolerant of stress when compared with the control group; in terms of sex-specific personality traits, they tend to show more female features. Furthermore, the clinical observations of the psychological test date are discussed, i.e., that the subjects with 4-5 c/s rhythms suffer more frequently from functional somatic complaints (observed in 13 cases: 9 with neurovegetative disturbances, 4 with psychosomatic diseases) and/or show psychopathological features (observed in 12 cases: 8 with abnormal personality traits, 4 with neurotic personality development).", "contents": "[Studies on the psychopathology of adults with 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm (author's transl)]. Nineteen subjects (10 males and 9 females, aged between 18 and 61 years) with an occipital 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm were tested using a multidimensional psychological test program. The program consisted of the IST of Amthauer, the Raven Test, the German version of the MMPI (\"MMPI Saarbr\u00fccken\"), the Cattell 16-PF-questionnaire, Brickenkamp's d2-Test, and a test battery for psychomotor impairment. A group of normal persons with a regular alpha EEG, matched according to sex and age, was used to provide test norms for the 4-5 c/s EEG group. No difference in intelligence was found, but statistically significant differences were found in some personality traits in the MMPI and the 16-PF-questionnaire. Taking into consideration that the 4-5 c/s EEG group of the study is a subjective sample not randomly selected, this study showed that the male subjects with a 4-5 c/s rhythm as more sensitive, more tender and gentle, more anxious, and less tolerant of stress when compared with the control group; in terms of sex-specific personality traits, they tend to show more female features. Furthermore, the clinical observations of the psychological test date are discussed, i.e., that the subjects with 4-5 c/s rhythms suffer more frequently from functional somatic complaints (observed in 13 cases: 9 with neurovegetative disturbances, 4 with psychosomatic diseases) and/or show psychopathological features (observed in 12 cases: 8 with abnormal personality traits, 4 with neurotic personality development).", "PMID": 454140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11011", "title": "[Water intoxication and brain edema in psychogenic polydipsia (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of psychogenic polydipsia is presented that showed psychic decompensation and compulsive drinking under the acute stress of an imminent operation for ovarian cyst. Without any indication of an underlying organic disease process the patient developed acute water intoxication due to the uncontrolled intake of water from the tap, this caused hyponatremia, brain edema, coma and status epilepticus. The physiology of water intoxication is reviewed in relation to this case, which is also remarkable for the acute onset and the shortness of the polydipsic state.", "contents": "[Water intoxication and brain edema in psychogenic polydipsia (author's transl)]. A case of psychogenic polydipsia is presented that showed psychic decompensation and compulsive drinking under the acute stress of an imminent operation for ovarian cyst. Without any indication of an underlying organic disease process the patient developed acute water intoxication due to the uncontrolled intake of water from the tap, this caused hyponatremia, brain edema, coma and status epilepticus. The physiology of water intoxication is reviewed in relation to this case, which is also remarkable for the acute onset and the shortness of the polydipsic state.", "PMID": 454141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11012", "title": "[Cauda equina syndrome with total myelographic block (author's transl)].", "content": "Twenty-seven cases of complete subarachnoid block discovered through myelography are analysed with regard to the causes of obstruction, the neurologic symptoms, and the cerebrospinal fluid. The neurologic signs in cases of cauda equina compression, most often caused by massive disc protrusions (20 patients), vary considerably and rarely correspond to the gross myelographic findings. Bilateral neurologic symptoms of any degree with or without sphincter disturbance were observed in 21 among 27 cases and are signs of cauda compression. In contrast to cases of sciatica with unilateral root compression and radicular symptoms neurological symptoms are not reliable in revealing the site of the lesion in cases of massive central disc protrusions. Therefore radiculography (myelography of the cauda equina) is necessary for diagnosis. In addition to the well-known elevation of the spinal fluid protein and pleocytosis, the presence of neutrophile granulocytes is frequently found (11 of 20 cases) in cytological analysis.", "contents": "[Cauda equina syndrome with total myelographic block (author's transl)]. Twenty-seven cases of complete subarachnoid block discovered through myelography are analysed with regard to the causes of obstruction, the neurologic symptoms, and the cerebrospinal fluid. The neurologic signs in cases of cauda equina compression, most often caused by massive disc protrusions (20 patients), vary considerably and rarely correspond to the gross myelographic findings. Bilateral neurologic symptoms of any degree with or without sphincter disturbance were observed in 21 among 27 cases and are signs of cauda compression. In contrast to cases of sciatica with unilateral root compression and radicular symptoms neurological symptoms are not reliable in revealing the site of the lesion in cases of massive central disc protrusions. Therefore radiculography (myelography of the cauda equina) is necessary for diagnosis. In addition to the well-known elevation of the spinal fluid protein and pleocytosis, the presence of neutrophile granulocytes is frequently found (11 of 20 cases) in cytological analysis.", "PMID": 454142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11013", "title": "[The frequency of adult anticonvulsant osteomalacia in relation to duration of therapy and dosage of anticonvulsants (author's transl)].", "content": "Of 837 epileptics over 16 years of age treated with mono- or combined hydantoin therapy 20.3% showed radiographic signs of anticonvulsant osteomalacia. With the exception of the patients with severe disturbances of the skeletal system no positive correlation was found with duration of therapy. The percentage of moderate bone changes was the highest in the patients treated for 1 to 2 years; the percentage of severe bone changes in the group treated over 10 years. The rate of osteomalacia correlated with the total dose of hydantoin, phenobarbital, or primidone; the correlation with the dose per year was even more evident. The risk of osteomalacia rose distinctly with doses over 3000 equivalent units/year. The patients with combined hydantoin-barbiturate treatment showed a higher risk than those treated with phenytoin alone. The rate of osteomalacia was the highest in the patients aged under 20 years and over 50 years. Males showed a relatively higher rate of osteomalacia than females, they were treated however with a higher dose per year. The chemical parameters blood alkaline phosphatase and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol corresponded to the radiographic signs, whereas calcium and anorganic phosphate showed no correlation. Early routine radiologic and chemical control especially of the epileptic patients with high risk of osteomalacia should be routinely performed in future.", "contents": "[The frequency of adult anticonvulsant osteomalacia in relation to duration of therapy and dosage of anticonvulsants (author's transl)]. Of 837 epileptics over 16 years of age treated with mono- or combined hydantoin therapy 20.3% showed radiographic signs of anticonvulsant osteomalacia. With the exception of the patients with severe disturbances of the skeletal system no positive correlation was found with duration of therapy. The percentage of moderate bone changes was the highest in the patients treated for 1 to 2 years; the percentage of severe bone changes in the group treated over 10 years. The rate of osteomalacia correlated with the total dose of hydantoin, phenobarbital, or primidone; the correlation with the dose per year was even more evident. The risk of osteomalacia rose distinctly with doses over 3000 equivalent units/year. The patients with combined hydantoin-barbiturate treatment showed a higher risk than those treated with phenytoin alone. The rate of osteomalacia was the highest in the patients aged under 20 years and over 50 years. Males showed a relatively higher rate of osteomalacia than females, they were treated however with a higher dose per year. The chemical parameters blood alkaline phosphatase and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol corresponded to the radiographic signs, whereas calcium and anorganic phosphate showed no correlation. Early routine radiologic and chemical control especially of the epileptic patients with high risk of osteomalacia should be routinely performed in future.", "PMID": 454143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11014", "title": "Hereditary cerebellar atrophy (Holmes type) with optic atrophy: a clinico-pathological study of four generations in a family.", "content": "A family with a dominantly inherited progressive cerebellar ataxia is described; four members of successive generations were affected. Neuropathological examination of one family member classified this disorder as hereditary cerebellar atrophy of Holmes type. An associated optic atrophy has not been previously reported in this disease.", "contents": "Hereditary cerebellar atrophy (Holmes type) with optic atrophy: a clinico-pathological study of four generations in a family. A family with a dominantly inherited progressive cerebellar ataxia is described; four members of successive generations were affected. Neuropathological examination of one family member classified this disorder as hereditary cerebellar atrophy of Holmes type. An associated optic atrophy has not been previously reported in this disease.", "PMID": 454144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11015", "title": "[Electrolytes in the CSF of hydrocephalic patients (author's transl)].", "content": "The concentrations of Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++, and Mg++ were measured in the CSF and serum of controls and in those of patients with hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus was proved with pneumoencephalography. The amounts of Na+, K+, Ca++, and Mg++ were significantly higher in the CSF of patients with hydrocephalus than in the CSF of controls. The changes in the electrolyte concentration gradients seem to indicate that it is not the blood-brain barrier but the brain-CSF barrier which is disturbed in hydrocephalus.", "contents": "[Electrolytes in the CSF of hydrocephalic patients (author's transl)]. The concentrations of Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++, and Mg++ were measured in the CSF and serum of controls and in those of patients with hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus was proved with pneumoencephalography. The amounts of Na+, K+, Ca++, and Mg++ were significantly higher in the CSF of patients with hydrocephalus than in the CSF of controls. The changes in the electrolyte concentration gradients seem to indicate that it is not the blood-brain barrier but the brain-CSF barrier which is disturbed in hydrocephalus.", "PMID": 454145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11016", "title": "[Control mechanisms of aphasic patients in verbal and phonemic paraphasias (author's transl)].", "content": "In the current literature on aphasia, two explanations of paraphasic errors are suggested: one is based on the idea of conscious verbal substitutions, and the other on that of uncontrolled faults in production. The purpose of this study was to relate both explanations to a) the usual classification of verbal and phonemic paraphasias, b) the different types of aphasia, and c) the severity of the aphasic disturbance. In free reproductions of 19 fluent aphasics A(F) and 21 nonfluent aphasics A(NF), the immediate verbal context of paraphasias was examined in relation to a) the nature and severity of the paraphasic errors and b) the severity of the aphasia. The A(NF) group made significantly more hesitations before both verbal and phenemic paraphasias. There was no significant difference between the two groups in control after phonemic paraphasias, but the A(NF) showed a significantly higher rate of control incidents after verbal paraphasias. Thus the two explanations of paraphasia may correspond to different kinds of paraphasic behavior, which are symptomatic of two varieties of aphasia, fluent and nonfluent.", "contents": "[Control mechanisms of aphasic patients in verbal and phonemic paraphasias (author's transl)]. In the current literature on aphasia, two explanations of paraphasic errors are suggested: one is based on the idea of conscious verbal substitutions, and the other on that of uncontrolled faults in production. The purpose of this study was to relate both explanations to a) the usual classification of verbal and phonemic paraphasias, b) the different types of aphasia, and c) the severity of the aphasic disturbance. In free reproductions of 19 fluent aphasics A(F) and 21 nonfluent aphasics A(NF), the immediate verbal context of paraphasias was examined in relation to a) the nature and severity of the paraphasic errors and b) the severity of the aphasia. The A(NF) group made significantly more hesitations before both verbal and phenemic paraphasias. There was no significant difference between the two groups in control after phonemic paraphasias, but the A(NF) showed a significantly higher rate of control incidents after verbal paraphasias. Thus the two explanations of paraphasia may correspond to different kinds of paraphasic behavior, which are symptomatic of two varieties of aphasia, fluent and nonfluent.", "PMID": 454146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11017", "title": "In vitro haemolysis from adrenochrome in the blood of schizophrenic patients, revised.", "content": "The recently reported abnormal in vitro haemolysis from catecholamine metabolites in schizophrenia was tested. We did not find the postulated increase in haemolysis, though the exchange of plasma for Ringer solution renders some patients' erythrocytes more susceptible to the effects of adrenochrome. The possibility of a subgroup of schizophrenia with a defect in membrane stability is discussed.", "contents": "In vitro haemolysis from adrenochrome in the blood of schizophrenic patients, revised. The recently reported abnormal in vitro haemolysis from catecholamine metabolites in schizophrenia was tested. We did not find the postulated increase in haemolysis, though the exchange of plasma for Ringer solution renders some patients' erythrocytes more susceptible to the effects of adrenochrome. The possibility of a subgroup of schizophrenia with a defect in membrane stability is discussed.", "PMID": 454147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11018", "title": "[The 'schizophrenic reaction'--a follow-up study after 20 years (author's transl)].", "content": "The concept of schizophrenic reaction was introduced in 1920 by Popper for single schizophrenic manifestations of short duration and full recovery, occurring after a traumatic experience. Of the 29 probands with a primary diagnosis of schizophrenic reaction when recruited for study by Rohr (report published 1961), 28 were reevaluated 20 years later. Nineteen subjects now had a clear-cut schizophrenic symptomatology (ICD 295); 16 with, and three without, remaining symptoms and/or relapse. The other nine were now diagnosed under nosologic categories other than ICD 295. Of these subjects, four were symptom free and had suffered no relapse. The study did not reveal criteria suggesting a distinguishable nosologic category 'schizophrenic reaction' with reference to a schizophrenic syndrome of acute or subacute onset after a brief traumatic event (without remaining symptoms and/or relapse). Such probands did not differ from the schizophrenic group in any of the following criteria: psychopathology, heredity data (diagnosis of relatives was undertaken without reference to the respective index cases), time of onset, duration of psychopathologic manifestation, length of hospitalization, period without remaining symptoms or relapse, and frequency and type of traumatic experiences. The two groups with schizophrenic symptomatology (ICD 295) are genetically characterized by the fact that their first-degree relatives had an incidence of schizophrenia of 8.3 +/- 2.6%. On the other hand, no certain cases of schizophrenia were found among such relatives of subjects in other diagnostic groups. The results do not support the concept of schizophrenic reaction.", "contents": "[The 'schizophrenic reaction'--a follow-up study after 20 years (author's transl)]. The concept of schizophrenic reaction was introduced in 1920 by Popper for single schizophrenic manifestations of short duration and full recovery, occurring after a traumatic experience. Of the 29 probands with a primary diagnosis of schizophrenic reaction when recruited for study by Rohr (report published 1961), 28 were reevaluated 20 years later. Nineteen subjects now had a clear-cut schizophrenic symptomatology (ICD 295); 16 with, and three without, remaining symptoms and/or relapse. The other nine were now diagnosed under nosologic categories other than ICD 295. Of these subjects, four were symptom free and had suffered no relapse. The study did not reveal criteria suggesting a distinguishable nosologic category 'schizophrenic reaction' with reference to a schizophrenic syndrome of acute or subacute onset after a brief traumatic event (without remaining symptoms and/or relapse). Such probands did not differ from the schizophrenic group in any of the following criteria: psychopathology, heredity data (diagnosis of relatives was undertaken without reference to the respective index cases), time of onset, duration of psychopathologic manifestation, length of hospitalization, period without remaining symptoms or relapse, and frequency and type of traumatic experiences. The two groups with schizophrenic symptomatology (ICD 295) are genetically characterized by the fact that their first-degree relatives had an incidence of schizophrenia of 8.3 +/- 2.6%. On the other hand, no certain cases of schizophrenia were found among such relatives of subjects in other diagnostic groups. The results do not support the concept of schizophrenic reaction.", "PMID": 454148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11019", "title": "The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene graft. Three years' experience with 362 grafts.", "content": "A total of 362 polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts were implanted in patients as vascular substitutes in a variety of vascular reconstructive procedures. A total of 184 were used in femoropopliteal bypass operations. Cumulative patency rates showed 74% patency at the end of the first year of observation and 58% after two and three years. Seventeen grafts were used for femorotibial bypasses, with a cumulative patency rate of 40.4% after one year. Ninety-eight grafts were implanted in the upper or lower extremity to serve as vascular access for hemodialysis. For this group, the cumulative one-year patency rate was 83%. Sixty-three additional grafts were implanted in various other anatomic locations. Based on this experience, the PTFE graft seems to be a promising and versatile vascular prosthesis, although it should be used cautiously.", "contents": "The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene graft. Three years' experience with 362 grafts. A total of 362 polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts were implanted in patients as vascular substitutes in a variety of vascular reconstructive procedures. A total of 184 were used in femoropopliteal bypass operations. Cumulative patency rates showed 74% patency at the end of the first year of observation and 58% after two and three years. Seventeen grafts were used for femorotibial bypasses, with a cumulative patency rate of 40.4% after one year. Ninety-eight grafts were implanted in the upper or lower extremity to serve as vascular access for hemodialysis. For this group, the cumulative one-year patency rate was 83%. Sixty-three additional grafts were implanted in various other anatomic locations. Based on this experience, the PTFE graft seems to be a promising and versatile vascular prosthesis, although it should be used cautiously.", "PMID": 454151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11020", "title": "Use of umbilical vein graft as an arterial substitute.", "content": "Seventy reconstructions, 14 to the popliteal artery above the knee, 40 to the popliteal artery below the knee, and 16 to the tibioperoneal arteries were performed with the Dardik umbilical vein graft tanned in glutaraldehyde. Indications for use included absence of or inadequate saphenous veins, or for expediency during emergency or complex procedures. The cumulative patency rate (calculated by the life table method) for the total group was 77% at 18 months. The failures are further analyzed according to the type of procedure, the grade of disease, and the distal runoff vessel. Early failures were attributed primarily to poor runoff and not to intrinsic properties of the graft. Our overall experience with the umbilical vein graft has been good. Further long-term follow-up is necessary.", "contents": "Use of umbilical vein graft as an arterial substitute. Seventy reconstructions, 14 to the popliteal artery above the knee, 40 to the popliteal artery below the knee, and 16 to the tibioperoneal arteries were performed with the Dardik umbilical vein graft tanned in glutaraldehyde. Indications for use included absence of or inadequate saphenous veins, or for expediency during emergency or complex procedures. The cumulative patency rate (calculated by the life table method) for the total group was 77% at 18 months. The failures are further analyzed according to the type of procedure, the grade of disease, and the distal runoff vessel. Early failures were attributed primarily to poor runoff and not to intrinsic properties of the graft. Our overall experience with the umbilical vein graft has been good. Further long-term follow-up is necessary.", "PMID": 454152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11021", "title": "In vivo comparison of replamineform, Silastic, and bioelectric polyurethane arterial grafts.", "content": "The replamineform process allows fabrication of microporous prostheses with control of both pore diameter and structural geometry by means of a variety for biomaterials. Tubular prostheses 3 cm long, 6 mm inside diameter, and 1 mm wall thickness were made of Silastic or Bioelectric Polyurethane (BEP) with use of a template of the echinoderm Heterocentrotus mammillatus. Pore diameter of the prosthesis wall was 18 to 25 mu. Light and scanning-electron microscopy of grafts removed between 1 and 32 weeks demonstrated that organization and endothelialization of neointima were similar for both polymers, being complete by 4 to 8 weeks. However, the character of prosthesis wall ingrowth was strikingly different: the microporous lattice of BEP was completely ingrown early, but was apparently fragmented by continued granulomatous inflammation by 32 weeks, while Silastic generated minimal inflammatory response and slower fibrous tissue and capillary ingrowth. Thus, with Silastic and BEP, similarities in neointima organization appeared independent of distinct differences in wall ingrowth. The replamineform process is a unique means of studying surface healing and wall ingrowth of different biomaterials as microporous vascular prostheses in a controlled fashion.", "contents": "In vivo comparison of replamineform, Silastic, and bioelectric polyurethane arterial grafts. The replamineform process allows fabrication of microporous prostheses with control of both pore diameter and structural geometry by means of a variety for biomaterials. Tubular prostheses 3 cm long, 6 mm inside diameter, and 1 mm wall thickness were made of Silastic or Bioelectric Polyurethane (BEP) with use of a template of the echinoderm Heterocentrotus mammillatus. Pore diameter of the prosthesis wall was 18 to 25 mu. Light and scanning-electron microscopy of grafts removed between 1 and 32 weeks demonstrated that organization and endothelialization of neointima were similar for both polymers, being complete by 4 to 8 weeks. However, the character of prosthesis wall ingrowth was strikingly different: the microporous lattice of BEP was completely ingrown early, but was apparently fragmented by continued granulomatous inflammation by 32 weeks, while Silastic generated minimal inflammatory response and slower fibrous tissue and capillary ingrowth. Thus, with Silastic and BEP, similarities in neointima organization appeared independent of distinct differences in wall ingrowth. The replamineform process is a unique means of studying surface healing and wall ingrowth of different biomaterials as microporous vascular prostheses in a controlled fashion.", "PMID": 454153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11022", "title": "Predictability of present outcome and future recurrence in acute pancreatitis.", "content": "Although acute pancreatitis is relatively common, factors useful in predicting immediate outcome or likelihood of recurrence have seldom been studied in greater detail. A ten-year experience with 389 patients hospitalized for 821 separate episodes of acute pancreatitis was reviewed. The overall mortality was 6.7%, being highest on the first admission and considerably greater for white males. Respiratory complications accounting for 27% of the fatalities were the most common causes of death. The incidence of considerable morbidity was 19.5%. Clinical diagnoses of \"shock\" and \"respiratory distress\" were associated with mortalities of 88% and 71%, respectively. The overall recurrence rate was 50.1%, with little variation regardless as to the number of previous bouts. Recurrence was more likely if the patient was black, male, older than 30 years of age, and had experienced a second episode of acute pancreatitis. Admission data aid considerably in identifying high-risk patients in whom major complications develop, who die during the present episode, or who have a future recurrent bout of acute pancreatitis.", "contents": "Predictability of present outcome and future recurrence in acute pancreatitis. Although acute pancreatitis is relatively common, factors useful in predicting immediate outcome or likelihood of recurrence have seldom been studied in greater detail. A ten-year experience with 389 patients hospitalized for 821 separate episodes of acute pancreatitis was reviewed. The overall mortality was 6.7%, being highest on the first admission and considerably greater for white males. Respiratory complications accounting for 27% of the fatalities were the most common causes of death. The incidence of considerable morbidity was 19.5%. Clinical diagnoses of \"shock\" and \"respiratory distress\" were associated with mortalities of 88% and 71%, respectively. The overall recurrence rate was 50.1%, with little variation regardless as to the number of previous bouts. Recurrence was more likely if the patient was black, male, older than 30 years of age, and had experienced a second episode of acute pancreatitis. Admission data aid considerably in identifying high-risk patients in whom major complications develop, who die during the present episode, or who have a future recurrent bout of acute pancreatitis.", "PMID": 454154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11023", "title": "Carotid endarterectomy shunting. Effectiveness determined by operative ocular pneumoplethysmography.", "content": "The theoretical advantages and practical disadvantages of carotid endarterectomy shunting are well known. To assess shunt physiology, we performed operative ocular pneumoplethysmography on six patients before carotid clamping, during carotid clamping, during carotid shunting, and on completion of carotid repair. In each case the shunt functioned, at best, as a vessel with at least a 75% or greater cross-sectional area stenosis. However, in all cases it appreciably elevated the ipsilateral ophthalmic systolic pressure over that noted during carotid clamping. There is no question that carotid shunting provides a margin of safety during prolonged carotid clamping.", "contents": "Carotid endarterectomy shunting. Effectiveness determined by operative ocular pneumoplethysmography. The theoretical advantages and practical disadvantages of carotid endarterectomy shunting are well known. To assess shunt physiology, we performed operative ocular pneumoplethysmography on six patients before carotid clamping, during carotid clamping, during carotid shunting, and on completion of carotid repair. In each case the shunt functioned, at best, as a vessel with at least a 75% or greater cross-sectional area stenosis. However, in all cases it appreciably elevated the ipsilateral ophthalmic systolic pressure over that noted during carotid clamping. There is no question that carotid shunting provides a margin of safety during prolonged carotid clamping.", "PMID": 454155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11024", "title": "Jejunoaortic fistula from ingested seamstress needle.", "content": "A 27-year-old man was evaluated for sudden onset of massive hematemesis and hematochezia. A bleeding site was not seen on esophagogastroduodenoscopy. There was little blood in the stomach, which suggested that the bleeding site was below the ligament of Treitz. Angiography demonstrated the presence of an intra-aortic metallic foreign body that resembled a sewing needle. At operation, a chronic jejunoaortic fistula that contained the sewing needle was found and repaired. The patient had no recollection of having swallowed the needle, and it is presumed that he ingested it in infancy. He had an uneventful recovery.", "contents": "Jejunoaortic fistula from ingested seamstress needle. A 27-year-old man was evaluated for sudden onset of massive hematemesis and hematochezia. A bleeding site was not seen on esophagogastroduodenoscopy. There was little blood in the stomach, which suggested that the bleeding site was below the ligament of Treitz. Angiography demonstrated the presence of an intra-aortic metallic foreign body that resembled a sewing needle. At operation, a chronic jejunoaortic fistula that contained the sewing needle was found and repaired. The patient had no recollection of having swallowed the needle, and it is presumed that he ingested it in infancy. He had an uneventful recovery.", "PMID": 454156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11025", "title": "Spontaneous rupture of the liver. A complication of oral anticoagulant therapy.", "content": "Therapeutic doses of oral anticoagulants have been associated with spontaneous hemorrhage and rupture of apparently normal abdominal viscera. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of such rupture involving the liver. The patient had sudden severe epigastric pain and signs of acute abdomen and shock. Discrete microscopic changes in the liver may precede massive hemorrhage.", "contents": "Spontaneous rupture of the liver. A complication of oral anticoagulant therapy. Therapeutic doses of oral anticoagulants have been associated with spontaneous hemorrhage and rupture of apparently normal abdominal viscera. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of such rupture involving the liver. The patient had sudden severe epigastric pain and signs of acute abdomen and shock. Discrete microscopic changes in the liver may precede massive hemorrhage.", "PMID": 454157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11026", "title": "Porcelain appendix. A calcified mucocele fractures to produce an acute abdomen.", "content": "Mucocele of the appendix is rare and occasionally is accompanied by calcification. In a recent case, an eggshell-thin calcified mucocele fractured to produce an acute abdomen. This situation was not found in a review of the literature. A brief summary of the properties of mucocele is presented.", "contents": "Porcelain appendix. A calcified mucocele fractures to produce an acute abdomen. Mucocele of the appendix is rare and occasionally is accompanied by calcification. In a recent case, an eggshell-thin calcified mucocele fractured to produce an acute abdomen. This situation was not found in a review of the literature. A brief summary of the properties of mucocele is presented.", "PMID": 454158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11027", "title": "Rhizopus surgical wound infection with elasticized adhesive tape dressings.", "content": "We report a case of cutaneous Rhizopus infection associated with the use of an elasticized adhesive tape (Elastoplast) bandage over a surgical wound. At the present time, it is recommended that such dressings not be used on open wounds.", "contents": "Rhizopus surgical wound infection with elasticized adhesive tape dressings. We report a case of cutaneous Rhizopus infection associated with the use of an elasticized adhesive tape (Elastoplast) bandage over a surgical wound. At the present time, it is recommended that such dressings not be used on open wounds.", "PMID": 454159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11028", "title": "Studies of peripheral glucose uptake during sepsis.", "content": "Glucose intolerance occurs in patients with sepsis, and resistance to insulin has been thought to be part of this process. To study this phenomenon, peritonitis was produced in rats by cecal ligation and puncture. One group was killed ten hours later (early sepsis). A second group of rats was killed 16 to 24 hours after ligation, just prior to their expected death (late sepsis). Insulin stimulated glucose uptake to the same extent in muscles from rats in early sepsis, late sepsis, and from control rats. Even at an insulin concentration that produced submaximal stimulation of glucose uptake, no difference in glucose uptake between the three groups of muscles was observed. Thus, there was no resistance to the stimulatory action of insulin on glucose uptake by skeletal muscle during early and late sepsis. However, basal glucose uptake by isolated soleus muscle from animals in late sepsis was significantly increased compared with controls when these muscles were incubated in an aerobic environment. Under anaerobic conditions, glucose uptake in these two groups of muscles increased to the same level. This indicates that there is some stimulus that increases glucose uptake in late peritonitis and may explain the hypoglycemia of late experimental or untreated sepsis. This stimulus could be hypoxia or some other factor resulting from decreased blood flow and increased anaerobic metabolism.", "contents": "Studies of peripheral glucose uptake during sepsis. Glucose intolerance occurs in patients with sepsis, and resistance to insulin has been thought to be part of this process. To study this phenomenon, peritonitis was produced in rats by cecal ligation and puncture. One group was killed ten hours later (early sepsis). A second group of rats was killed 16 to 24 hours after ligation, just prior to their expected death (late sepsis). Insulin stimulated glucose uptake to the same extent in muscles from rats in early sepsis, late sepsis, and from control rats. Even at an insulin concentration that produced submaximal stimulation of glucose uptake, no difference in glucose uptake between the three groups of muscles was observed. Thus, there was no resistance to the stimulatory action of insulin on glucose uptake by skeletal muscle during early and late sepsis. However, basal glucose uptake by isolated soleus muscle from animals in late sepsis was significantly increased compared with controls when these muscles were incubated in an aerobic environment. Under anaerobic conditions, glucose uptake in these two groups of muscles increased to the same level. This indicates that there is some stimulus that increases glucose uptake in late peritonitis and may explain the hypoglycemia of late experimental or untreated sepsis. This stimulus could be hypoxia or some other factor resulting from decreased blood flow and increased anaerobic metabolism.", "PMID": 454160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11029", "title": "Experience with the Hunter-Sessions inferior vena cava balloon occluder.", "content": "During a two-year period, 12 patients with indication for inferior vena cava interruption underwent vena cava occlusion with the transvenous Hunter-Sessions balloon. The device permitted simultaneous anticoagulation (when not contraindicated), was tolerated by sick patients, did not cause mortality or significant morbidity, and prevented pulmonary emboli.", "contents": "Experience with the Hunter-Sessions inferior vena cava balloon occluder. During a two-year period, 12 patients with indication for inferior vena cava interruption underwent vena cava occlusion with the transvenous Hunter-Sessions balloon. The device permitted simultaneous anticoagulation (when not contraindicated), was tolerated by sick patients, did not cause mortality or significant morbidity, and prevented pulmonary emboli.", "PMID": 454161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11030", "title": "Biliary clonorchiasis.", "content": "Parasitic infection of the biliary tree may be seen more frequently because of changing patterns in travel, and may come to the attention of the surgeon when obstruction or secondary bacterial infection occurs. In this case, intraoperative cholangiography indicated common duct abnormalities, and choledochotomy led to the diagnosis of Clonorchis sinensis. A recommendation is made to follow up patients with bilary parasite infections to determine the long-term sequelae.", "contents": "Biliary clonorchiasis. Parasitic infection of the biliary tree may be seen more frequently because of changing patterns in travel, and may come to the attention of the surgeon when obstruction or secondary bacterial infection occurs. In this case, intraoperative cholangiography indicated common duct abnormalities, and choledochotomy led to the diagnosis of Clonorchis sinensis. A recommendation is made to follow up patients with bilary parasite infections to determine the long-term sequelae.", "PMID": 454162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11031", "title": "A safe and secure technique of cystic duct catheterization.", "content": "An easily fabricated, small-caliber, flare-tipped polyethylene catheter was used for transcystic duct cholangiography in 385 patients. A modified cystic duct clamp and a Potts-Smith scissors have expedited the intubation. The catheter has proved to be a versatile tool during biliary surgery, being used in different technical maneuvers. Its value as a transcystic duct drain has been demonstrated in a selected group of patients.", "contents": "A safe and secure technique of cystic duct catheterization. An easily fabricated, small-caliber, flare-tipped polyethylene catheter was used for transcystic duct cholangiography in 385 patients. A modified cystic duct clamp and a Potts-Smith scissors have expedited the intubation. The catheter has proved to be a versatile tool during biliary surgery, being used in different technical maneuvers. Its value as a transcystic duct drain has been demonstrated in a selected group of patients.", "PMID": 454163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11032", "title": "Avoiding renal vein entry when implanting the Mobin-Uddin vena cava umbrella filter.", "content": "Transvenous placement of a Mobin-Uddin vena cava umbrella filter is a safe and effective method of vena cava interruption in high-risk patients who cannot undergo laparotomy. When the renal veins enter the vena cava acutely, there may be preferential passage of the filter insertion device into the aberrant renal veins. If the usual maneuvers of changing the patient's position do not correct this aberrant passage, then a venous thrombectomy catheter may be used to temporarily occlude the vein orifice. This technique avoids the problems of incorrect placement and abandonment of the transvenous approach to vena cava interruption.", "contents": "Avoiding renal vein entry when implanting the Mobin-Uddin vena cava umbrella filter. Transvenous placement of a Mobin-Uddin vena cava umbrella filter is a safe and effective method of vena cava interruption in high-risk patients who cannot undergo laparotomy. When the renal veins enter the vena cava acutely, there may be preferential passage of the filter insertion device into the aberrant renal veins. If the usual maneuvers of changing the patient's position do not correct this aberrant passage, then a venous thrombectomy catheter may be used to temporarily occlude the vein orifice. This technique avoids the problems of incorrect placement and abandonment of the transvenous approach to vena cava interruption.", "PMID": 454164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11033", "title": "Microbiologic environment of the conventional operating room.", "content": "Areas of potential contamination of the surgical wound in the conventional operating rooms include the back table, the unsterile suction receptacle, and the lack of a positive pressure relationship between the operating room and adjacent areas. Use of an impermeable hood with a large mask diminished contamination of the instrument table and the the wound from fallout of bacteria from the surgical team. The level of airborne bacterial comtamination in the operating room can be reduced by limiting the traffic and controlling the activity and the number of operating room personnel. Higher rates of postoperatively wound sepsis were noted in older operating rooms, particularly with difficult procedures and those performed later in the day. Conventional operating rooms should be categorized by the level of room air exchange per hour and the level of airborne bacterial contamination.", "contents": "Microbiologic environment of the conventional operating room. Areas of potential contamination of the surgical wound in the conventional operating rooms include the back table, the unsterile suction receptacle, and the lack of a positive pressure relationship between the operating room and adjacent areas. Use of an impermeable hood with a large mask diminished contamination of the instrument table and the the wound from fallout of bacteria from the surgical team. The level of airborne bacterial comtamination in the operating room can be reduced by limiting the traffic and controlling the activity and the number of operating room personnel. Higher rates of postoperatively wound sepsis were noted in older operating rooms, particularly with difficult procedures and those performed later in the day. Conventional operating rooms should be categorized by the level of room air exchange per hour and the level of airborne bacterial contamination.", "PMID": 454169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11034", "title": "Environmental bacteriology in the unidirectional (horizontal) operating room.", "content": "The continuing attempts to reduce bacterial contamination through clean air systems have been of special interest to surgeons dealing in joint replacement surgery. Although the definitive relationship between airborne contamination and surgical infections is not universally agreed on, there is little question that clean air systems reduce bacterial contamination of the surgical wound at the time of operation. This report reviews the history of surgical infections, presents statistical data that show the reduction of bacterial contamination by a clear air system, and suggests a pragmatic attitude regarding airborne bacterial contamination of surgical wounds.", "contents": "Environmental bacteriology in the unidirectional (horizontal) operating room. The continuing attempts to reduce bacterial contamination through clean air systems have been of special interest to surgeons dealing in joint replacement surgery. Although the definitive relationship between airborne contamination and surgical infections is not universally agreed on, there is little question that clean air systems reduce bacterial contamination of the surgical wound at the time of operation. This report reviews the history of surgical infections, presents statistical data that show the reduction of bacterial contamination by a clear air system, and suggests a pragmatic attitude regarding airborne bacterial contamination of surgical wounds.", "PMID": 454170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11035", "title": "Environmental bacteriology in the unidirectional (vertical) operating room.", "content": "An integrated body exhaust/clean air operating room system was evaluated in terms of the microbiologic and particulate contamination control it afforded. The clean air unit was of a vertical unidirectional airflow design and employed high-efficiency particulate air filters to provide air low in both microbes and particulates. The body exhaust portion of the system was composed of an exhaust tube the surgeon's mask, a transparent plastic faceplate, and a microbe-retentive surgical gown and hood. Measurements were made of airborne and surface contamination at the wound site and of microbial burden levels associated with the surgical team. Sampling techniques were designed to parallel those used in a previous study of a horizontal flow/body exhaust system so as to provide comparative data on the effect of airflow configuration on wound site contamination. The data showed the vertical flow room to exhibit significantly lower (P less than .05) contamination levels than the horizontal flow enclosure. Surgical lights, draping techniques, and personnel and material positoning unobstructive to the airstream were judged to the prime factors in reducing wound site contamination.", "contents": "Environmental bacteriology in the unidirectional (vertical) operating room. An integrated body exhaust/clean air operating room system was evaluated in terms of the microbiologic and particulate contamination control it afforded. The clean air unit was of a vertical unidirectional airflow design and employed high-efficiency particulate air filters to provide air low in both microbes and particulates. The body exhaust portion of the system was composed of an exhaust tube the surgeon's mask, a transparent plastic faceplate, and a microbe-retentive surgical gown and hood. Measurements were made of airborne and surface contamination at the wound site and of microbial burden levels associated with the surgical team. Sampling techniques were designed to parallel those used in a previous study of a horizontal flow/body exhaust system so as to provide comparative data on the effect of airflow configuration on wound site contamination. The data showed the vertical flow room to exhibit significantly lower (P less than .05) contamination levels than the horizontal flow enclosure. Surgical lights, draping techniques, and personnel and material positoning unobstructive to the airstream were judged to the prime factors in reducing wound site contamination.", "PMID": 454171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11036", "title": "Bacteriology of the operating room with the use of helmet aspiration systems.", "content": "The bacteriology of the operating room with the use of the helmet-aspirator system has been discussed. The surgical team predictably contaminates the operating room. Current cotton gowns worn loosely about the neck do not serve as effective barriers to bacterial penetration. Barrier draping of the surgical team is possible with impervious materials, but requires the use of a helmet-aspirator system to dissipate the heat and particulate debris. These are commercially available and their use has been shown to decrease colony-forming particles, decrease wound contamination, and decrease wound infection. Barrier draping of the surgical team through the helmet-aspirator system is effective and is to be recommended for infection-prone cases.", "contents": "Bacteriology of the operating room with the use of helmet aspiration systems. The bacteriology of the operating room with the use of the helmet-aspirator system has been discussed. The surgical team predictably contaminates the operating room. Current cotton gowns worn loosely about the neck do not serve as effective barriers to bacterial penetration. Barrier draping of the surgical team is possible with impervious materials, but requires the use of a helmet-aspirator system to dissipate the heat and particulate debris. These are commercially available and their use has been shown to decrease colony-forming particles, decrease wound contamination, and decrease wound infection. Barrier draping of the surgical team through the helmet-aspirator system is effective and is to be recommended for infection-prone cases.", "PMID": 454172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11037", "title": "Clean air bench. Use for sterile maintenance of unwrapped surgical instruments.", "content": "Microbiologic sterility of unwrapped surgical instruments has been maintained for long periods by the use of an operating room instrument cabinet that continuously circulates high-flow, \"particle-free\" air. Use of this clean air bench has had excellent acceptance by operating room nurses and by surgeons because fewer instrument storage procedures are needed and setup time, takedown time, and case turnover time in the operating room are diminished. It has been found to be effective in operating rooms having busy schedules for both elective and emergency procedures.", "contents": "Clean air bench. Use for sterile maintenance of unwrapped surgical instruments. Microbiologic sterility of unwrapped surgical instruments has been maintained for long periods by the use of an operating room instrument cabinet that continuously circulates high-flow, \"particle-free\" air. Use of this clean air bench has had excellent acceptance by operating room nurses and by surgeons because fewer instrument storage procedures are needed and setup time, takedown time, and case turnover time in the operating room are diminished. It has been found to be effective in operating rooms having busy schedules for both elective and emergency procedures.", "PMID": 454173} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11038", "title": "Reduction of deep sepsis after total hip arthroplasty.", "content": "The role of the operating room environment in the development of deep sepsis after total hip arthroplasty was studied at four centers. The incidence of deep sepsis after 5,865 total hip arthroplasties performed in the four centers varied from 0.5% to 2.3%. Procedures performed in a conventional operating room were associated with the highest incidence of deep sepsis (1.3%). The use of a vertical, unidrectional airflow system with a helmet aspirator suite was associated with the lowest incidence of deep sepsis (0.6%). Although patients with previous hip surgery had an increased incidence of deep sepsis regardless of the operating room environment, those procedures performed in a vertical, unidrectional facility had a lower incidence of deep sepsis. Newer techniques designed for the reduction of airborne contamination of the operative wound seem to reduce the incidence of deep-wound sepsis after total hip arthroplasty, especially in patients with previous hip surgery.", "contents": "Reduction of deep sepsis after total hip arthroplasty. The role of the operating room environment in the development of deep sepsis after total hip arthroplasty was studied at four centers. The incidence of deep sepsis after 5,865 total hip arthroplasties performed in the four centers varied from 0.5% to 2.3%. Procedures performed in a conventional operating room were associated with the highest incidence of deep sepsis (1.3%). The use of a vertical, unidrectional airflow system with a helmet aspirator suite was associated with the lowest incidence of deep sepsis (0.6%). Although patients with previous hip surgery had an increased incidence of deep sepsis regardless of the operating room environment, those procedures performed in a vertical, unidrectional facility had a lower incidence of deep sepsis. Newer techniques designed for the reduction of airborne contamination of the operative wound seem to reduce the incidence of deep-wound sepsis after total hip arthroplasty, especially in patients with previous hip surgery.", "PMID": 454174} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11039", "title": "Use of antimicrobials in the management of open fractures.", "content": "The role of antibiotic therapy in open fractures is secondary to adequate debridement, irrigation, and definitive wound care. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that parenteral administration of appropriate antibiotics within three hours after injury helps to prevent wound sepsis. Intial wound cultures of 158 open fracture wounds revealed bacterial growth in 70.3%. Eighty-six were Gram-positive, 57 were Gram-negative, and 32 yielded mixed bacterial growth. Sensitivity studies of these organisms suggest that cephalothin sodium is the most effective antibiotic for prophylaxis. In a prospective study from 1969 to 1975, treatment of 520 patients was as follows: debridement, copious irrigation, and primary closure for types 1 and 2 fractures and secondary closure for type 3 fractures. No primary internal fixation was done except in vascular injuries. Cultures were taken of all wounds and antibiotics were given before surgery and for three days postoperatively. In type 3 open fractures, severe soft tissue injury, and segmental or traumatic amputation, the infection rate was 9%, compared to a 44% infection rate in the retrospective study from 1955 to 1968.", "contents": "Use of antimicrobials in the management of open fractures. The role of antibiotic therapy in open fractures is secondary to adequate debridement, irrigation, and definitive wound care. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that parenteral administration of appropriate antibiotics within three hours after injury helps to prevent wound sepsis. Intial wound cultures of 158 open fracture wounds revealed bacterial growth in 70.3%. Eighty-six were Gram-positive, 57 were Gram-negative, and 32 yielded mixed bacterial growth. Sensitivity studies of these organisms suggest that cephalothin sodium is the most effective antibiotic for prophylaxis. In a prospective study from 1969 to 1975, treatment of 520 patients was as follows: debridement, copious irrigation, and primary closure for types 1 and 2 fractures and secondary closure for type 3 fractures. No primary internal fixation was done except in vascular injuries. Cultures were taken of all wounds and antibiotics were given before surgery and for three days postoperatively. In type 3 open fractures, severe soft tissue injury, and segmental or traumatic amputation, the infection rate was 9%, compared to a 44% infection rate in the retrospective study from 1955 to 1968.", "PMID": 454175} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11040", "title": "Wound infections in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Ultraviolet light for the control of airborne bacteria.", "content": "Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation (1,537 A) during total hip arthroplasty will effectively reduce risk of airborne bacterial contamination of the operative field. An air sampling study at the operative site compared 28 total hip arthroplasties with UV lights on and 19 operations with UV lights off. The use of UV irradiation significantly reduced the average number of airborne bacteria over the operative site, although the results indicate that the number of airborne bacteria collected at the operative site in each conventional operating room without UV irradiation was quite low. Data confirmed the fact that airborne bacteria are a reflection of operating room personnel and their activities. With UV light, the rate of infection from possible airborne sources was 0.15% for 1,322 total hip patients. Thus, emphasis is now placed on those causes of infection that are not airborne.", "contents": "Wound infections in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Ultraviolet light for the control of airborne bacteria. Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation (1,537 A) during total hip arthroplasty will effectively reduce risk of airborne bacterial contamination of the operative field. An air sampling study at the operative site compared 28 total hip arthroplasties with UV lights on and 19 operations with UV lights off. The use of UV irradiation significantly reduced the average number of airborne bacteria over the operative site, although the results indicate that the number of airborne bacteria collected at the operative site in each conventional operating room without UV irradiation was quite low. Data confirmed the fact that airborne bacteria are a reflection of operating room personnel and their activities. With UV light, the rate of infection from possible airborne sources was 0.15% for 1,322 total hip patients. Thus, emphasis is now placed on those causes of infection that are not airborne.", "PMID": 454176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11041", "title": "Airflow effects in surgery.", "content": "Accumulated evidence of the last decade has emphasized the multifaceted nature of wound infection control. Clean air is definitely one of the facets in the complex, but its place in the hierachy of precautions against wound infection has not been established, nor has the method of achieving acceptably clean air been universally agreed on. The surgical team and the patient are the prime sources of contamination during an operation, as evidenced by the good matches between bacteria of infected wounds and those of the team or the patient and by the poor matches between bacteria of infected wounds and airborne bacteria. Therefore, special air-handling systems, despite their ability to lower ambient bioparticulate counts, cannot be credited with being a highly relevant factor in the reduction of wound infection rates.", "contents": "Airflow effects in surgery. Accumulated evidence of the last decade has emphasized the multifaceted nature of wound infection control. Clean air is definitely one of the facets in the complex, but its place in the hierachy of precautions against wound infection has not been established, nor has the method of achieving acceptably clean air been universally agreed on. The surgical team and the patient are the prime sources of contamination during an operation, as evidenced by the good matches between bacteria of infected wounds and those of the team or the patient and by the poor matches between bacteria of infected wounds and airborne bacteria. Therefore, special air-handling systems, despite their ability to lower ambient bioparticulate counts, cannot be credited with being a highly relevant factor in the reduction of wound infection rates.", "PMID": 454177} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11042", "title": "Diagnostic errors with peritoneal lavage in patients with pelvic fractures.", "content": "Diagnostic peritoneal lavage, considered to be a highly accurate, technique for detecting intraperitoneal blood in the trauma patient, may be less reliable in the presence of a pelvic fracture. In a retrospective review of 222 patients with pelvic fractures, 61 patients were found who had had a diagnostic peritoneal lavage performed as part of the initial evaluation of their condition. Twenty-six of these patients had had a negative lavage result negative lavage result. There had been no false-negative results in this group, although six patients required operations for extraperitoneal injuries. Of the 35 patients with a positive lavage results, 10 (29%) were found to have false-positive lavage results with no intraperitoneal source of bleeding. The only deaths in this series occurred in the group requiring operations, eight of 41 (20%). Four of the eight detahs were due to uncontrollable bleeding that resulted from exploration of the retroperitoneal hematoma. These data suggest that a negative lavage result is highly reliable in the patient with a pelvic fracture and should allow management with confidence that there is no severe intraperitoneal injury. Positive lavage results, however, must be interpreted with caution.", "contents": "Diagnostic errors with peritoneal lavage in patients with pelvic fractures. Diagnostic peritoneal lavage, considered to be a highly accurate, technique for detecting intraperitoneal blood in the trauma patient, may be less reliable in the presence of a pelvic fracture. In a retrospective review of 222 patients with pelvic fractures, 61 patients were found who had had a diagnostic peritoneal lavage performed as part of the initial evaluation of their condition. Twenty-six of these patients had had a negative lavage result negative lavage result. There had been no false-negative results in this group, although six patients required operations for extraperitoneal injuries. Of the 35 patients with a positive lavage results, 10 (29%) were found to have false-positive lavage results with no intraperitoneal source of bleeding. The only deaths in this series occurred in the group requiring operations, eight of 41 (20%). Four of the eight detahs were due to uncontrollable bleeding that resulted from exploration of the retroperitoneal hematoma. These data suggest that a negative lavage result is highly reliable in the patient with a pelvic fracture and should allow management with confidence that there is no severe intraperitoneal injury. Positive lavage results, however, must be interpreted with caution.", "PMID": 454178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11043", "title": "Cardiopulmonary bypass in anesthetic management of resection. Its use for severe tracheal stenosis.", "content": "On initial evaluation, two patients were found to be in severe respiratory distress from tracheal obstruction. One patient had late obstruction after a crushing injury to the chest, whereas the other had subtotal tracheal obstruction from a carcinoid adenoma. In each case, the state of the patient seemed to preclude safe anesthetic induction with an endotracheal tube as the sole means of oxygenating the patient. Partial cardiopulmonary bypass provided an adjunct to ensure adequate oxygenation for tracheal resection. Consideration for the use of this technique is recommended in similar circumstances.", "contents": "Cardiopulmonary bypass in anesthetic management of resection. Its use for severe tracheal stenosis. On initial evaluation, two patients were found to be in severe respiratory distress from tracheal obstruction. One patient had late obstruction after a crushing injury to the chest, whereas the other had subtotal tracheal obstruction from a carcinoid adenoma. In each case, the state of the patient seemed to preclude safe anesthetic induction with an endotracheal tube as the sole means of oxygenating the patient. Partial cardiopulmonary bypass provided an adjunct to ensure adequate oxygenation for tracheal resection. Consideration for the use of this technique is recommended in similar circumstances.", "PMID": 454179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11044", "title": "Abdominal aortic aneurysm and horseshoe kidney. A different perspective.", "content": "We report a case of abdominal aortic aneurysm with horseshoe kidney. The anatomic distribution of the renal vessels, the position of the thin portion of the isthmus of the kidney, and concern for the preservation of the sexual potency of the patient made standard aneurysm repair untenable. We describe a method of repair by exclusion of the aneurysm.", "contents": "Abdominal aortic aneurysm and horseshoe kidney. A different perspective. We report a case of abdominal aortic aneurysm with horseshoe kidney. The anatomic distribution of the renal vessels, the position of the thin portion of the isthmus of the kidney, and concern for the preservation of the sexual potency of the patient made standard aneurysm repair untenable. We describe a method of repair by exclusion of the aneurysm.", "PMID": 454180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11045", "title": "Nonoperative internal drainage of obstructive common bile ducts.", "content": "A new nonoperative method for internal drainage of common bile duct obstructions by endoscopic retrograde cannulation of the papilla of Vater is described. After introduction of a tube in the common bile duct, a substantial decrease in serum activity of bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase was found. In addition, a rapid improvement of the clinical condition could be observed. No serious complications occurred. It is concluded that internal drainage of common bile duct obstructions might be of great value in the preoperative treatment of patients with common bile duct obstructions.", "contents": "Nonoperative internal drainage of obstructive common bile ducts. A new nonoperative method for internal drainage of common bile duct obstructions by endoscopic retrograde cannulation of the papilla of Vater is described. After introduction of a tube in the common bile duct, a substantial decrease in serum activity of bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase was found. In addition, a rapid improvement of the clinical condition could be observed. No serious complications occurred. It is concluded that internal drainage of common bile duct obstructions might be of great value in the preoperative treatment of patients with common bile duct obstructions.", "PMID": 454181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11046", "title": "Studies on the toxicology of hexachlorobenzene. IV. Sulphur-containing metabolites.", "content": "After administration of hexachlorobenzene rats excrete sulphur-containing conjugates from which pentachlorothiophenol can be split off. In the present study we describe the identification of pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol in the livers of animals treated with hexachlorobenzene. In order to clarify the further fate of these two substances, we administered them to rats, and isolated the conversion products excreted in the urine and feces. The metabolites of pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol are excreted in both conjugated and free form. From extracts of the excreta, we isolated tetra- and trichlorobenzene with two or three sulphur-containing substituents on the ring, analogous compounds in which thiol groups were converted into sulphoxide and sulphone groups, as well as analogous compounds with a phenolic oxygen in addition to sulphur, and sulphur-containing compounds in which clorine was replaced by hydrogen. Following administration of the sulphoxide and of the sulphone of pentachlorothioanisol under analogous conditions, pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol and their metabolites were detected in the excreta of the animals. No evidence was obtained that the parent compounds are excreted in the unchanged form.", "contents": "Studies on the toxicology of hexachlorobenzene. IV. Sulphur-containing metabolites. After administration of hexachlorobenzene rats excrete sulphur-containing conjugates from which pentachlorothiophenol can be split off. In the present study we describe the identification of pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol in the livers of animals treated with hexachlorobenzene. In order to clarify the further fate of these two substances, we administered them to rats, and isolated the conversion products excreted in the urine and feces. The metabolites of pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol are excreted in both conjugated and free form. From extracts of the excreta, we isolated tetra- and trichlorobenzene with two or three sulphur-containing substituents on the ring, analogous compounds in which thiol groups were converted into sulphoxide and sulphone groups, as well as analogous compounds with a phenolic oxygen in addition to sulphur, and sulphur-containing compounds in which clorine was replaced by hydrogen. Following administration of the sulphoxide and of the sulphone of pentachlorothioanisol under analogous conditions, pentachlorothiophenol and pentachlorothioanisol and their metabolites were detected in the excreta of the animals. No evidence was obtained that the parent compounds are excreted in the unchanged form.", "PMID": 454182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11047", "title": "Distribution of Fe59 in benzene and iomex treated rats.", "content": "The distribution of Fe59 in plasma and blood at various time intervals has been studied in control, benzene and iomex administered, and anemic rats. A significant difference between control and benzene, and iomex treated animals was observed in the rate of reappearance of Fe59 in blood circulation. The accumulation of Fe59 in various organs was noted at the end of 48 h. A significant increase in the radio-iron content was observed in bone marrow, spleen and liver of benzene and iomex treated rats as compared to those of control rats.", "contents": "Distribution of Fe59 in benzene and iomex treated rats. The distribution of Fe59 in plasma and blood at various time intervals has been studied in control, benzene and iomex administered, and anemic rats. A significant difference between control and benzene, and iomex treated animals was observed in the rate of reappearance of Fe59 in blood circulation. The accumulation of Fe59 in various organs was noted at the end of 48 h. A significant increase in the radio-iron content was observed in bone marrow, spleen and liver of benzene and iomex treated rats as compared to those of control rats.", "PMID": 454184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11048", "title": "The short term fate of dischargeable glass beads implanted surgically in the mouse urinary bladder.", "content": "Although both male and female mice of different ages expelled surgically implanted glass beads with diameters of 1 mm and 0.5 mm within 5 weeks in comparable numbers, urinary stones formed in relation to these implanted beads more frequently in male mice than in females. This stone formation in male mice may be a consequence of the relatively high mucoprotein content in the urine of the male mouse.", "contents": "The short term fate of dischargeable glass beads implanted surgically in the mouse urinary bladder. Although both male and female mice of different ages expelled surgically implanted glass beads with diameters of 1 mm and 0.5 mm within 5 weeks in comparable numbers, urinary stones formed in relation to these implanted beads more frequently in male mice than in females. This stone formation in male mice may be a consequence of the relatively high mucoprotein content in the urine of the male mouse.", "PMID": 454185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11049", "title": "Nephrotoxicity of aminophenols: effects of 4-dimethylaminophenol on isolated rat kidney tubules.", "content": "In isolated rat kidney tubules DMAP was found to inhibit the gluconeogenesis from lactate, pyruvate, or dihydroxyacetone. The ratio DMAP/protein rather than the calculated concentration of DMAP determined the strength of the effect, 20--25 nmoles DMAP/mg protein inhibiting the rate of gluconeogenesis by about 50%. The inhibition was not reversible. Phenacetin, 4-aminophenol and 4-acetamidophenol were much less effective than DMAP in inhibiting gluconeogenesis in isolated rat kidney tubules. DMAP 14C-labeled in the ring was quickly bound to proteins in kidney tubules. A portion of DMAP which did not exceed about 4 nmoles/mg protein, was bound in compounds soluble in perchloric acid. From this portion tris-GS-DMAP was isolated. DMAP diminished the glutathione content of isolated rat kidney tubules. Reduced glutathione added before DMAP prevented the inhibition of gluconeogenesis and diminished the binding of DMAP to proteins. The binding of DMAP required oxygen and was inhibited by carbon monoxide or cyanide. Several enzymes from isolated kidney tubules were found to be inhibited by DMAP doses which inhibited gluconeogenesis. Large DMAP doses also diminished the sums of ATP + ADP + AMP as well as NAD + NADH and NADP + NADPH. This effect corresponded to an increase in nucleotide degradation products and to increased activity of extracellular LDH. The results indicate that the inhibition of gluconeogenesis by DMAP is not due to a specific effect on one enzyme or on membranes but to unspecific reactions with many substances.", "contents": "Nephrotoxicity of aminophenols: effects of 4-dimethylaminophenol on isolated rat kidney tubules. In isolated rat kidney tubules DMAP was found to inhibit the gluconeogenesis from lactate, pyruvate, or dihydroxyacetone. The ratio DMAP/protein rather than the calculated concentration of DMAP determined the strength of the effect, 20--25 nmoles DMAP/mg protein inhibiting the rate of gluconeogenesis by about 50%. The inhibition was not reversible. Phenacetin, 4-aminophenol and 4-acetamidophenol were much less effective than DMAP in inhibiting gluconeogenesis in isolated rat kidney tubules. DMAP 14C-labeled in the ring was quickly bound to proteins in kidney tubules. A portion of DMAP which did not exceed about 4 nmoles/mg protein, was bound in compounds soluble in perchloric acid. From this portion tris-GS-DMAP was isolated. DMAP diminished the glutathione content of isolated rat kidney tubules. Reduced glutathione added before DMAP prevented the inhibition of gluconeogenesis and diminished the binding of DMAP to proteins. The binding of DMAP required oxygen and was inhibited by carbon monoxide or cyanide. Several enzymes from isolated kidney tubules were found to be inhibited by DMAP doses which inhibited gluconeogenesis. Large DMAP doses also diminished the sums of ATP + ADP + AMP as well as NAD + NADH and NADP + NADPH. This effect corresponded to an increase in nucleotide degradation products and to increased activity of extracellular LDH. The results indicate that the inhibition of gluconeogenesis by DMAP is not due to a specific effect on one enzyme or on membranes but to unspecific reactions with many substances.", "PMID": 454186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11050", "title": "[Acetylcholinesterase in the cells of the neural germ of the chick embryo].", "content": "Activity of AChE in separate cells of the neural tube and ganglionic plate (neural crest) is detected histochemically in chick embryos after 36, 48, 60 and 74 h of incubation, before any specific morphological signs characteristic for the neuroblast appear in them. It is stated that biochemical determination, formation of acetylcholine system coinsides with the proneuroblast phase. The product of the reaction for AChE is a marker which helps to observe migration of proneuroblasts in embryos at early stages of development.", "contents": "[Acetylcholinesterase in the cells of the neural germ of the chick embryo]. Activity of AChE in separate cells of the neural tube and ganglionic plate (neural crest) is detected histochemically in chick embryos after 36, 48, 60 and 74 h of incubation, before any specific morphological signs characteristic for the neuroblast appear in them. It is stated that biochemical determination, formation of acetylcholine system coinsides with the proneuroblast phase. The product of the reaction for AChE is a marker which helps to observe migration of proneuroblasts in embryos at early stages of development.", "PMID": 454188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11051", "title": "[Taxonomy of the microangiological changes in the ocular conjunctiva].", "content": "By means of biomicroscopical investigations of bulbar conjunctiva in healthy persons of different age certain characteristics on normal microcirculatory bed have been obtained. Morphometric analysis of the vital microscopical observations has revealed some age peculiarities in microcirculation of the conjunctiva. As a result of clinical examination of the persons, it has been stated that the phenomena noticed at biomicroscopy which characterize certain anomalies of microcirculatory parameters correlate with latent pathology, closely related diseases or developmental anomalies. Therefore, it is possible to consider the method of biomicroscopical investigation of the conjunctiva with a subsequent morphometric analysis of the data obtained as suitable for application not only for clinical but also for prophylactic examination of healthy persons.", "contents": "[Taxonomy of the microangiological changes in the ocular conjunctiva]. By means of biomicroscopical investigations of bulbar conjunctiva in healthy persons of different age certain characteristics on normal microcirculatory bed have been obtained. Morphometric analysis of the vital microscopical observations has revealed some age peculiarities in microcirculation of the conjunctiva. As a result of clinical examination of the persons, it has been stated that the phenomena noticed at biomicroscopy which characterize certain anomalies of microcirculatory parameters correlate with latent pathology, closely related diseases or developmental anomalies. Therefore, it is possible to consider the method of biomicroscopical investigation of the conjunctiva with a subsequent morphometric analysis of the data obtained as suitable for application not only for clinical but also for prophylactic examination of healthy persons.", "PMID": 454189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11052", "title": "[Morphofunctional characteristics of the microcirculatory bed of the human spinal dura mater].", "content": "Some morphofunctional peculiarities in microcirculatory pathways of the dura mater of the human spinal cord are described. They are concerned with the structure of arteriolo-venular anastomoses through which a rather large amount of arterial blood is transported into the venous bed. Around the vessels of arterial type running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the vessel connective tissue fibres of the dura mater, there is a tissue layer intensively impregnated with silver salts and stained PAS-positively. The venous part of the dura mater microcirculatory pathways has a large number of accessory reservoirs in the form of venous \"lakes\". Functional importance of the peculiarities mentioned above for the dura mater and the perimedullar apparatus is clarified.", "contents": "[Morphofunctional characteristics of the microcirculatory bed of the human spinal dura mater]. Some morphofunctional peculiarities in microcirculatory pathways of the dura mater of the human spinal cord are described. They are concerned with the structure of arteriolo-venular anastomoses through which a rather large amount of arterial blood is transported into the venous bed. Around the vessels of arterial type running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the vessel connective tissue fibres of the dura mater, there is a tissue layer intensively impregnated with silver salts and stained PAS-positively. The venous part of the dura mater microcirculatory pathways has a large number of accessory reservoirs in the form of venous \"lakes\". Functional importance of the peculiarities mentioned above for the dura mater and the perimedullar apparatus is clarified.", "PMID": 454190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11053", "title": "[Microcirculatory bed and the structure of the compact substance of the cat tibial diaphysis normally and after multiple exposure to G loads].", "content": "Blood bed and structure of the compact substance of the cat tibial diaphysis have been studied at normal conditions and after repeated effect of gravitational overloadings. Hypergravitation produced a noticeable rearrangement in the microcirculatory bed and in histoarchitectonics of the bone compact substance. The date obtained demonstrate that the changes produced depend on the number of parameters participating in the gravitational effect and on the position of the animal in the container, as well as on the time when the animal falls ill after the experiment.", "contents": "[Microcirculatory bed and the structure of the compact substance of the cat tibial diaphysis normally and after multiple exposure to G loads]. Blood bed and structure of the compact substance of the cat tibial diaphysis have been studied at normal conditions and after repeated effect of gravitational overloadings. Hypergravitation produced a noticeable rearrangement in the microcirculatory bed and in histoarchitectonics of the bone compact substance. The date obtained demonstrate that the changes produced depend on the number of parameters participating in the gravitational effect and on the position of the animal in the container, as well as on the time when the animal falls ill after the experiment.", "PMID": 454191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11054", "title": "[Morphology of the microcirculatory bed of the vascular coat of the human eye].", "content": "Recently ophthalmologists got interested in microcirculatory bed of the choroid (the main collector of blood in the eye) because of the vascular layer was studied in 25 eyes of persons who had died suddenly and had no eye pathology during their lives. The age was from 11 to 70 years. V. V. Kuprianov's method of impregnation was used. Structural peculiarities of the choroid microcirculatory bed were presented; its changes were stated to depend on functional importance of the given segment of the eyeground and on the age of the patient. The data obtained could facilitate in studying different pathologic conditions in the eye in order to clarify the role of the choroid microcirculatory bed in genesis of ophthalmic diseases.", "contents": "[Morphology of the microcirculatory bed of the vascular coat of the human eye]. Recently ophthalmologists got interested in microcirculatory bed of the choroid (the main collector of blood in the eye) because of the vascular layer was studied in 25 eyes of persons who had died suddenly and had no eye pathology during their lives. The age was from 11 to 70 years. V. V. Kuprianov's method of impregnation was used. Structural peculiarities of the choroid microcirculatory bed were presented; its changes were stated to depend on functional importance of the given segment of the eyeground and on the age of the patient. The data obtained could facilitate in studying different pathologic conditions in the eye in order to clarify the role of the choroid microcirculatory bed in genesis of ophthalmic diseases.", "PMID": 454192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11055", "title": "[Valvular apparatus of the cardiac veins in the pig].", "content": "The valvular apparatus of the subepicardial venous network has been studied in reflected light of the diaphragmated source. Structure, form and variations of the valvular apparatus have been determined in different parts of the coronary sinus, in the large cardiac vein, in the median cardiac and in the posterior veins of the left ventricle and their main branches.", "contents": "[Valvular apparatus of the cardiac veins in the pig]. The valvular apparatus of the subepicardial venous network has been studied in reflected light of the diaphragmated source. Structure, form and variations of the valvular apparatus have been determined in different parts of the coronary sinus, in the large cardiac vein, in the median cardiac and in the posterior veins of the left ventricle and their main branches.", "PMID": 454193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11056", "title": "[Structural characteristics of the mucosa of the small intestine in gnotobiote rats].", "content": "Histological and electron microscopic investigations of mucosal strucutre of the small intestine in gnotobiotic and conventional rats have demonstrated that mucosal index (lenear dimentions of villi/crypt dimentions ratio) is equal to 3--4 and 1.4--2.5, respectively. In gnotobiotic rats the number of mitotic figures in crypts is less, migratory-desquamative parameters of enterocytes are 5--6 days, cranio-caudal gradient of linear dimentions of villi, crypts and the number of goblet-shaped cells is not expressed. The goblet-shaped cells and cells with acidophilic granules have secretion of moderate intensity. The number of cells infiltrating epithelium of villi and crypts is greater when microbes are present in the gut lumen. A considerable difference in the structure of the connective tissue basis of the gnotobiotic and conventional rats mucosa are also connected with presence or absence of microflora in the gut lumen.", "contents": "[Structural characteristics of the mucosa of the small intestine in gnotobiote rats]. Histological and electron microscopic investigations of mucosal strucutre of the small intestine in gnotobiotic and conventional rats have demonstrated that mucosal index (lenear dimentions of villi/crypt dimentions ratio) is equal to 3--4 and 1.4--2.5, respectively. In gnotobiotic rats the number of mitotic figures in crypts is less, migratory-desquamative parameters of enterocytes are 5--6 days, cranio-caudal gradient of linear dimentions of villi, crypts and the number of goblet-shaped cells is not expressed. The goblet-shaped cells and cells with acidophilic granules have secretion of moderate intensity. The number of cells infiltrating epithelium of villi and crypts is greater when microbes are present in the gut lumen. A considerable difference in the structure of the connective tissue basis of the gnotobiotic and conventional rats mucosa are also connected with presence or absence of microflora in the gut lumen.", "PMID": 454194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11057", "title": "[Utrastructural interrelationships of collagen fibrillar components in human connective tissue].", "content": "The data on structural interconnections between collagenous fibres in the human dermis and periosteum were obtained by means of raster electron microscopy. Collagenous fibres were demonstrated to be connected with each other by means of fine connective fibres situating mainly transversaly towards the main collagenous fibres. Comparing the data obtained with those from the literature, a suggestion was made on the existence, in the connective tissue, of a special connective system composing of peculiar fibrillar structures which maintains dynamic equilibrium in arrangement of collagenous fibres, muscles, vessels, etc. The system of the connective fibres demonstrates a common compositional principle for all the structures mentioned above, but in every case having its peculiarities.", "contents": "[Utrastructural interrelationships of collagen fibrillar components in human connective tissue]. The data on structural interconnections between collagenous fibres in the human dermis and periosteum were obtained by means of raster electron microscopy. Collagenous fibres were demonstrated to be connected with each other by means of fine connective fibres situating mainly transversaly towards the main collagenous fibres. Comparing the data obtained with those from the literature, a suggestion was made on the existence, in the connective tissue, of a special connective system composing of peculiar fibrillar structures which maintains dynamic equilibrium in arrangement of collagenous fibres, muscles, vessels, etc. The system of the connective fibres demonstrates a common compositional principle for all the structures mentioned above, but in every case having its peculiarities.", "PMID": 454195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11058", "title": "[Estrous cycle of the Arctic lemming (Dicrostonyx torquatus Pall.) maintained and breeding under laboratory conditions].", "content": "Reproductive functions and life at laboratory conditions were studied in the lemming. Standard cage-terrariums with a wheel for motion and a plate for drinking are quite convenient. The main ration includes: hay, oats with some carrot added, some apples two--three times a week, sunflower seeds. The animals feel well and reproduce at +8 degrees and +20 degrees in well ventilated rooms. The estrous cycle in lemming females studied by microscopy of vaginal smears is not regular. Only two stages are definitely seen: diestrus and estrus. Intermediate stages--proestrus and metaestrus--can be identified by a successive studies of vaginal smears of the same animal.", "contents": "[Estrous cycle of the Arctic lemming (Dicrostonyx torquatus Pall.) maintained and breeding under laboratory conditions]. Reproductive functions and life at laboratory conditions were studied in the lemming. Standard cage-terrariums with a wheel for motion and a plate for drinking are quite convenient. The main ration includes: hay, oats with some carrot added, some apples two--three times a week, sunflower seeds. The animals feel well and reproduce at +8 degrees and +20 degrees in well ventilated rooms. The estrous cycle in lemming females studied by microscopy of vaginal smears is not regular. Only two stages are definitely seen: diestrus and estrus. Intermediate stages--proestrus and metaestrus--can be identified by a successive studies of vaginal smears of the same animal.", "PMID": 454196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11059", "title": "[Organization of the connections of the putamen with the cerebral cortex and hypothalamus].", "content": "Connection between the putamen, the brain cortex and the hypothalamus, as well as the role of the former in different aspects of purposive behaviour have been studied in a complex morpho-physiological investigation. In 12 cats, after developing a symmetrical active-defensive conditioned reflex, unilateral electrolysis of the putamen has been performed and the number of conditioned-reflexive reactions have been counted before and after coagulation. The brains have been treated after Nauta--Gygax, Fink--Heimer with additional staining after Kawamura--Niimi. Monosynaptic connections of the putamen with frontal, precentral, postcentral, orbital, parietal cortical areas have been revealed; direct pathways from the putamen to the infundibulum of the grey tuber, to the posterior and lateral hypothalamic nucleus have been demonstrated; participation of the putamen in the formation of active-defensive conditioned reflexes has been stated, as well as in emotional behaviour with a preferable use either the right or the left foreleg.", "contents": "[Organization of the connections of the putamen with the cerebral cortex and hypothalamus]. Connection between the putamen, the brain cortex and the hypothalamus, as well as the role of the former in different aspects of purposive behaviour have been studied in a complex morpho-physiological investigation. In 12 cats, after developing a symmetrical active-defensive conditioned reflex, unilateral electrolysis of the putamen has been performed and the number of conditioned-reflexive reactions have been counted before and after coagulation. The brains have been treated after Nauta--Gygax, Fink--Heimer with additional staining after Kawamura--Niimi. Monosynaptic connections of the putamen with frontal, precentral, postcentral, orbital, parietal cortical areas have been revealed; direct pathways from the putamen to the infundibulum of the grey tuber, to the posterior and lateral hypothalamic nucleus have been demonstrated; participation of the putamen in the formation of active-defensive conditioned reflexes has been stated, as well as in emotional behaviour with a preferable use either the right or the left foreleg.", "PMID": 454198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11060", "title": "[Characteristics of the structure of the cornea of the reptilian eye].", "content": "Submicroscopic structural peculiarities in the cornea are described in some reptiles (grass-snake, lizard, turtle). Certain stages in histogenesis of the grass-snake cornea are presented. Poor differentiation of epithelium and its resemblance to endothelium is demonstrated in the grass-snake cornea. In cytoplasm of cornea cells of lizard and turtle a high content of mitochondria is noted. Great majority of mitochondria compactly arranged in the middle part of cytoplasm provide the appearance of zones. There is a middle zone of mitochondrial arrangement, there are also two zones in cytoplasm (internal-perinuclear and peripheral) without mitochondria but with supporting structures.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the structure of the cornea of the reptilian eye]. Submicroscopic structural peculiarities in the cornea are described in some reptiles (grass-snake, lizard, turtle). Certain stages in histogenesis of the grass-snake cornea are presented. Poor differentiation of epithelium and its resemblance to endothelium is demonstrated in the grass-snake cornea. In cytoplasm of cornea cells of lizard and turtle a high content of mitochondria is noted. Great majority of mitochondria compactly arranged in the middle part of cytoplasm provide the appearance of zones. There is a middle zone of mitochondrial arrangement, there are also two zones in cytoplasm (internal-perinuclear and peripheral) without mitochondria but with supporting structures.", "PMID": 454199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11061", "title": "[Formation of a system of exogenous tangential fibers in layer I of the cerebral cortex in the ontogeny of the dog].", "content": "During pre- and postnatal periods, development of nuclear projections of the diencephalon into the cortical layer I has been studied in dogs by means of silver nitrate impregnation after Cajal. It has been stated that after the 5th week of the intrauterine development a great number of fibres from the diencephalon, through the germ of the cortical lamina, begin penetrating into the layer 1 within the areas of the paleocortex, the island, the subicular field of the archicotex, the presubicular and entorhinal cortex. A little less fibres have been revealed in the sensomotor and temporoentorhinal areas on the convex surface of the frontal lobe and on the medial surface of the occipital lobe. At the places of their penetrating into the cortical layer 1, by the time of birth, the fibres have sprouted up thickness of the whole area of the hemisphere.", "contents": "[Formation of a system of exogenous tangential fibers in layer I of the cerebral cortex in the ontogeny of the dog]. During pre- and postnatal periods, development of nuclear projections of the diencephalon into the cortical layer I has been studied in dogs by means of silver nitrate impregnation after Cajal. It has been stated that after the 5th week of the intrauterine development a great number of fibres from the diencephalon, through the germ of the cortical lamina, begin penetrating into the layer 1 within the areas of the paleocortex, the island, the subicular field of the archicotex, the presubicular and entorhinal cortex. A little less fibres have been revealed in the sensomotor and temporoentorhinal areas on the convex surface of the frontal lobe and on the medial surface of the occipital lobe. At the places of their penetrating into the cortical layer 1, by the time of birth, the fibres have sprouted up thickness of the whole area of the hemisphere.", "PMID": 454200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11062", "title": "[Causes of death in lymphogranulomatosis].", "content": "The results of 97 autopsy cases of lymphogranulomatosis showed the causes of death to be either progression of the disease (78 cases), complications of treatment (12) or other diseases (7). The immediate causes of death in the progression of the disease were toxicity (29%), pulmonary insufficiency (22%), pulmonary-cardial insufficiency (12%), hepatic insufficiency (21%), peritonitis (3.4%), sepsis (5.8%), uremia (3.4%), posthemorrhagic anemia (1.7%), cerebral edema (1.7%). The immediate causes of death in complications of therapy were secondary infection (5 cases), posthemorrhagic anemia (3), pulmonary insufficiency (3), cerebral edema (1). In 7 observations death was not due to lymphogranulomatosis: in 2 cases it was caused by disseminated hematogenic tuberculosis, in 2 pneumonia (with cured lymphogranulomatosis, in 1 myocardial infarction, in 1 uremia (aterosclerotic nephrosclerosis) and 1 patient died accidentally.", "contents": "[Causes of death in lymphogranulomatosis]. The results of 97 autopsy cases of lymphogranulomatosis showed the causes of death to be either progression of the disease (78 cases), complications of treatment (12) or other diseases (7). The immediate causes of death in the progression of the disease were toxicity (29%), pulmonary insufficiency (22%), pulmonary-cardial insufficiency (12%), hepatic insufficiency (21%), peritonitis (3.4%), sepsis (5.8%), uremia (3.4%), posthemorrhagic anemia (1.7%), cerebral edema (1.7%). The immediate causes of death in complications of therapy were secondary infection (5 cases), posthemorrhagic anemia (3), pulmonary insufficiency (3), cerebral edema (1). In 7 observations death was not due to lymphogranulomatosis: in 2 cases it was caused by disseminated hematogenic tuberculosis, in 2 pneumonia (with cured lymphogranulomatosis, in 1 myocardial infarction, in 1 uremia (aterosclerotic nephrosclerosis) and 1 patient died accidentally.", "PMID": 454224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11063", "title": "[Characteristics of the development of experimental allergic contact dermatitis].", "content": "Histological and electron microscopic examination of changes in the skin and blood revealed three different stages in the development of experimental allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The primary contact reaction (24 hours) had features of nonspecific inflammation with some morphological signs of initial sensitization. Inflammation in the flare-up reaction (5-7 days) is the result of the immune process, and basophilic infiltration of the skin is the obligatory component of this reaction. ACD (patch test at 15 days) was shown to have morphological manifestations typical of the delayed type hypersensitivity and some signs of the immediate type reactions.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the development of experimental allergic contact dermatitis]. Histological and electron microscopic examination of changes in the skin and blood revealed three different stages in the development of experimental allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The primary contact reaction (24 hours) had features of nonspecific inflammation with some morphological signs of initial sensitization. Inflammation in the flare-up reaction (5-7 days) is the result of the immune process, and basophilic infiltration of the skin is the obligatory component of this reaction. ACD (patch test at 15 days) was shown to have morphological manifestations typical of the delayed type hypersensitivity and some signs of the immediate type reactions.", "PMID": 454225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11064", "title": "[Morphological characteristics of secondary pulmonary hypertension in liver cirrhosis].", "content": "Morphological examinations of 24 autopsy cases of liver cirrhosis demonstrated the development of secondary postcapillary pulmonary hypertension with an increase of the muscular mass of the right ventricle and rearrangement of the blood vessels of pulmonary circulation. Most important morphological changes were observed in intraorgan veins and microcirculatory bed of the visceral pleura (particularly in the venular knee) indicating early reaction of the veins to hemodynamic disorders. It is suggested that hypervolemia in the pulmonary circulation system developing at the expence of blood discharge from the portal system into direct portopulmonary anastomoses plays an important role in the genesis of pulmonary hypertension in patients with hepatic cirrhosis.", "contents": "[Morphological characteristics of secondary pulmonary hypertension in liver cirrhosis]. Morphological examinations of 24 autopsy cases of liver cirrhosis demonstrated the development of secondary postcapillary pulmonary hypertension with an increase of the muscular mass of the right ventricle and rearrangement of the blood vessels of pulmonary circulation. Most important morphological changes were observed in intraorgan veins and microcirculatory bed of the visceral pleura (particularly in the venular knee) indicating early reaction of the veins to hemodynamic disorders. It is suggested that hypervolemia in the pulmonary circulation system developing at the expence of blood discharge from the portal system into direct portopulmonary anastomoses plays an important role in the genesis of pulmonary hypertension in patients with hepatic cirrhosis.", "PMID": 454226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11065", "title": "[Correlation of wall thickness and the luminal diameter of the arterial vessels of the kidneys in hypertension].", "content": "The autopsy material was used to study the ratio of the wall thickness and the lumen diameter in arch and interlobular arteries and arterioles of the kidneys in patients with hypertension and in the control group. A statistical analysis revealed in interlobular arteries and arterioles of the age group of 30-49 years a slight but a significant shift of the parameter under study towards more severe degrees of involvement. This was confirmed by the frequency of different degrees of damage. No significant differences in changes observed in interlobular arteries and arterioles were found. This method is recommended for the study of the structural changes of intrarenal arteries.", "contents": "[Correlation of wall thickness and the luminal diameter of the arterial vessels of the kidneys in hypertension]. The autopsy material was used to study the ratio of the wall thickness and the lumen diameter in arch and interlobular arteries and arterioles of the kidneys in patients with hypertension and in the control group. A statistical analysis revealed in interlobular arteries and arterioles of the age group of 30-49 years a slight but a significant shift of the parameter under study towards more severe degrees of involvement. This was confirmed by the frequency of different degrees of damage. No significant differences in changes observed in interlobular arteries and arterioles were found. This method is recommended for the study of the structural changes of intrarenal arteries.", "PMID": 454227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11066", "title": "[Healing characteristics of wounds produced by various surgical instruments].", "content": "Healing of liver wounds after marginal resection of the liver by CO2 laser of permanent action, scalpel and electric knife were studied. Considerable differences in the course of wound healing were observed. Wounds produced by laser heal without inflammatory infiltration of the abjacent tissues and within a shorter period of time.", "contents": "[Healing characteristics of wounds produced by various surgical instruments]. Healing of liver wounds after marginal resection of the liver by CO2 laser of permanent action, scalpel and electric knife were studied. Considerable differences in the course of wound healing were observed. Wounds produced by laser heal without inflammatory infiltration of the abjacent tissues and within a shorter period of time.", "PMID": 454228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11067", "title": "[Electron microscopic study of the characteristics of skeletogenic tissue differentiation during distraction osteosynthesis].", "content": "Electron microscopic examination of the regenerating tissue was performed after distractional osteosynthesis carried out by the method of G. A. Ilizarov. The results showed osteogenesis to occur on the basis of the fibrous tissue formed in diastasis. The observed zones of the regeneration typical of distractional osteosynthesis are due to functional stimulation (tension) resulting in the arrangement of collagen fiber bundles and bone trabeculae in the direction of the extension forces. Cells of the skeletogenic tissue, between the bone fragments are also arranged with their longitudinal axis along the collagen fibril bundles. The ultrastructural pattern of the osteogenesis after distractional osteosynthesis reflects the intensification of the synthesis of glycosaminoglycan-protein complexes forming the main substance of the bone tissue.", "contents": "[Electron microscopic study of the characteristics of skeletogenic tissue differentiation during distraction osteosynthesis]. Electron microscopic examination of the regenerating tissue was performed after distractional osteosynthesis carried out by the method of G. A. Ilizarov. The results showed osteogenesis to occur on the basis of the fibrous tissue formed in diastasis. The observed zones of the regeneration typical of distractional osteosynthesis are due to functional stimulation (tension) resulting in the arrangement of collagen fiber bundles and bone trabeculae in the direction of the extension forces. Cells of the skeletogenic tissue, between the bone fragments are also arranged with their longitudinal axis along the collagen fibril bundles. The ultrastructural pattern of the osteogenesis after distractional osteosynthesis reflects the intensification of the synthesis of glycosaminoglycan-protein complexes forming the main substance of the bone tissue.", "PMID": 454229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11068", "title": "[Epithelial permeability study of the bronchi in chronic bronchitis using an electron-dense tag].", "content": "An electron dense tracer, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), treated with DAB-H2O2 for electron histochemical demonstration of peroxidase was used in an effort to find out whether or not the human bronchial epithelium was permeable to some macromolecules in chronic bronchitis. The biopsy specimens obtained from 5 patients at bronchoscopy and cultured in a medium with 2% HRP for 1-6 hours showed the reaction product to be distributed within intracellular spaces of the epithelium as well as in some vesicles and vacuoles of the apical portion of the ciliated cells. When 2% HRP solution was topically applied on the bronchial epithelium surface of a narcotized patient for 10 min followed by biopsy of this part of the epithelium fixation and treatment for HRP demonstration, electron dense precipitates were identified only within some intercellular spaces. It is suggested that some intercellular contacts of the bronchial epithelium in chronic bronchitis are permeable to macromolecules, and that the ciliated cells of the bronchial epithelium are capable of endocytosing some macromolecules from the surface of the mucosa.", "contents": "[Epithelial permeability study of the bronchi in chronic bronchitis using an electron-dense tag]. An electron dense tracer, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), treated with DAB-H2O2 for electron histochemical demonstration of peroxidase was used in an effort to find out whether or not the human bronchial epithelium was permeable to some macromolecules in chronic bronchitis. The biopsy specimens obtained from 5 patients at bronchoscopy and cultured in a medium with 2% HRP for 1-6 hours showed the reaction product to be distributed within intracellular spaces of the epithelium as well as in some vesicles and vacuoles of the apical portion of the ciliated cells. When 2% HRP solution was topically applied on the bronchial epithelium surface of a narcotized patient for 10 min followed by biopsy of this part of the epithelium fixation and treatment for HRP demonstration, electron dense precipitates were identified only within some intercellular spaces. It is suggested that some intercellular contacts of the bronchial epithelium in chronic bronchitis are permeable to macromolecules, and that the ciliated cells of the bronchial epithelium are capable of endocytosing some macromolecules from the surface of the mucosa.", "PMID": 454230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11069", "title": "Regional cerebral blood flow in patients with Parkinson's disease.", "content": "Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by the xenon 133 inhalation method in 60 patients with Parkinson's disease and compared with flow data obtained in 51 age-matched normal control subjects. Mean brain rCBF was significantly reduced in patients with parkinsonism (9.5%, P less than .001). The most marked and significant rCBF decreases were observed in the older patients (18.8%, P less than .001). There was no correlation between degree of rCBF reduction and duration of parkinsonism. Decreases in hemispheric mean rCBF values were similar in both hemispheres even in patients with unilateral signs. The present study provides additional evidence for involvement of the cerebral cortex in Parkinson's disease. The rCBF decline may be associated in part with high prevalence of mental impairment and cortical atrophy and with diminished cerebral metabolic rate due to brain dopamine deficiency in patients with parkinsonism.", "contents": "Regional cerebral blood flow in patients with Parkinson's disease. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by the xenon 133 inhalation method in 60 patients with Parkinson's disease and compared with flow data obtained in 51 age-matched normal control subjects. Mean brain rCBF was significantly reduced in patients with parkinsonism (9.5%, P less than .001). The most marked and significant rCBF decreases were observed in the older patients (18.8%, P less than .001). There was no correlation between degree of rCBF reduction and duration of parkinsonism. Decreases in hemispheric mean rCBF values were similar in both hemispheres even in patients with unilateral signs. The present study provides additional evidence for involvement of the cerebral cortex in Parkinson's disease. The rCBF decline may be associated in part with high prevalence of mental impairment and cortical atrophy and with diminished cerebral metabolic rate due to brain dopamine deficiency in patients with parkinsonism.", "PMID": 454231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11070", "title": "Lipid composition of erythrocytes. Findings in Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and myotonic atrophy.", "content": "The distribution of major erythrocyte phospholipids and fatty aldehydes and the total fatty acid composition of erythrocytes and plasma were compared from patients with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, from definite carriers of the disease, from patients with myotonic atrophy, and from a number of normal controls. The data for normal controls closely agreed with the accepted values for these lipid components. Contrary to the published reports of others, no abnormalities in lipids were found in either disease or carrier groups.", "contents": "Lipid composition of erythrocytes. Findings in Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and myotonic atrophy. The distribution of major erythrocyte phospholipids and fatty aldehydes and the total fatty acid composition of erythrocytes and plasma were compared from patients with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, from definite carriers of the disease, from patients with myotonic atrophy, and from a number of normal controls. The data for normal controls closely agreed with the accepted values for these lipid components. Contrary to the published reports of others, no abnormalities in lipids were found in either disease or carrier groups.", "PMID": 454232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11071", "title": "Some factors determining prognosis in young people with severe head injuries.", "content": "Eighty-four patients under the age of 40 were rehabilitated after severe head injuries. All had been unconscious for at least 24 hours, and 35 were unconscious for more than four weeks. The mean length of treatment was 30.2 weeks. Seventy were discharged home, 13 remained in hospital, and one died. Seventy-two of the patients were followed up nine months to 15 years after the injury. Twenty-eight were working, 27 were at home but not working, 13 were in hospital, and four were dead. Prolonged unconsciousness, extensive neurological damage, and severe mental changes were found to be the main factors adversely affecting the prognosis; an inadequate family background and cerebral hypoxia were also considered to have an influence.", "contents": "Some factors determining prognosis in young people with severe head injuries. Eighty-four patients under the age of 40 were rehabilitated after severe head injuries. All had been unconscious for at least 24 hours, and 35 were unconscious for more than four weeks. The mean length of treatment was 30.2 weeks. Seventy were discharged home, 13 remained in hospital, and one died. Seventy-two of the patients were followed up nine months to 15 years after the injury. Twenty-eight were working, 27 were at home but not working, 13 were in hospital, and four were dead. Prolonged unconsciousness, extensive neurological damage, and severe mental changes were found to be the main factors adversely affecting the prognosis; an inadequate family background and cerebral hypoxia were also considered to have an influence.", "PMID": 454233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11072", "title": "Oculomotor abnormalities in Parkinson's disease.", "content": "Ocular movement was studied in 19 patients with Parkinson's disease and in ten normal controls. Common abnormalities included \"hypometric saccade\" on the eye-tracking test and on command, \"saccadic pursuit,\" and convergence paresis. Reaction time was longer in patients with Parkinson's disease than in controls for horizontal saccadic gaze, finger movements, and body movements. Maximal saccadic velocity of horizontal gaze was slower in patients with Parkinson's disease than in controls. Slowing of the horizontal saccadic movement correlated significantly with an increased reaction time of finger and body movements. Correlation of decreased saccadic velocity with increased reaction time of finger movement was found for the finger ipsilateral to the direction of horizontal gaze, but not for the contralateral finger. It is postulated from these facts that bradykinesia also exists in eye movements in Parkinson's disease.", "contents": "Oculomotor abnormalities in Parkinson's disease. Ocular movement was studied in 19 patients with Parkinson's disease and in ten normal controls. Common abnormalities included \"hypometric saccade\" on the eye-tracking test and on command, \"saccadic pursuit,\" and convergence paresis. Reaction time was longer in patients with Parkinson's disease than in controls for horizontal saccadic gaze, finger movements, and body movements. Maximal saccadic velocity of horizontal gaze was slower in patients with Parkinson's disease than in controls. Slowing of the horizontal saccadic movement correlated significantly with an increased reaction time of finger and body movements. Correlation of decreased saccadic velocity with increased reaction time of finger movement was found for the finger ipsilateral to the direction of horizontal gaze, but not for the contralateral finger. It is postulated from these facts that bradykinesia also exists in eye movements in Parkinson's disease.", "PMID": 454234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11073", "title": "The CSF pressure-volume relationship before and after cardiac arrest in the cat.", "content": "The CSF pressure-volume (P-V) function was evaluated before and after cardiac arrest in 15 cats. The CSF volume change was produced by bolus loading (loading rate, greater than 0.1 mL/s) of the CSF space. Comparison of the CSF P-V function before and after cardiac arrest was made over a CSF pressure range of 5 to 46 mm Hg and for a CSF volume change of up to 9% of total CSF volume. After cardiac arrest, all CSF P-V curves were well described by the mathematical model konwn to be valid under normal physiological conditions. In eight animals, there was no significant difference between the prearrest and postarrest P-V functions. For the seven animals demonstrating a significant difference between prearrest and postarrest P-V data, all but one of the postarrest P-V curves were within the normal range. These results suggest that the shape of the CSF P-V curve is not substantially altered by cardiac arrest. We conclude that under normal circumstances material properties of brain tissue are the most important factors in determining the configuration of the CSF P-V curve and that under normal circumstances cerebral hemodynamic factors do not affect the shape of this curve.", "contents": "The CSF pressure-volume relationship before and after cardiac arrest in the cat. The CSF pressure-volume (P-V) function was evaluated before and after cardiac arrest in 15 cats. The CSF volume change was produced by bolus loading (loading rate, greater than 0.1 mL/s) of the CSF space. Comparison of the CSF P-V function before and after cardiac arrest was made over a CSF pressure range of 5 to 46 mm Hg and for a CSF volume change of up to 9% of total CSF volume. After cardiac arrest, all CSF P-V curves were well described by the mathematical model konwn to be valid under normal physiological conditions. In eight animals, there was no significant difference between the prearrest and postarrest P-V functions. For the seven animals demonstrating a significant difference between prearrest and postarrest P-V data, all but one of the postarrest P-V curves were within the normal range. These results suggest that the shape of the CSF P-V curve is not substantially altered by cardiac arrest. We conclude that under normal circumstances material properties of brain tissue are the most important factors in determining the configuration of the CSF P-V curve and that under normal circumstances cerebral hemodynamic factors do not affect the shape of this curve.", "PMID": 454235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11074", "title": "Woodpecker drilling behavior. An endorsement of the rotational theory of impact brain injury.", "content": "High-speed cinematograph films of a drilling woodpecker were examined by direct visual inspection and by a microdensitometer and computer-imaging technique. These showed (1) that the drilling trajectory is essentially linear, with very little, if any, rotation of the head; (2) that there is minimal movement after impact; (3) that the impact velocity is of the order of 600 to 700 cm/s; and (4) that the impact deceleration is of the order of 1,000 g. Dynamic and morphologic findings in the woodpecker may be highly relevant to the prevention of concussion and brain injury in man. Taken in the context of modern packaging technology and other animal and mathematical modelling research, they suggest that brain injury preventive systems could be greatly improved over those now in common use.", "contents": "Woodpecker drilling behavior. An endorsement of the rotational theory of impact brain injury. High-speed cinematograph films of a drilling woodpecker were examined by direct visual inspection and by a microdensitometer and computer-imaging technique. These showed (1) that the drilling trajectory is essentially linear, with very little, if any, rotation of the head; (2) that there is minimal movement after impact; (3) that the impact velocity is of the order of 600 to 700 cm/s; and (4) that the impact deceleration is of the order of 1,000 g. Dynamic and morphologic findings in the woodpecker may be highly relevant to the prevention of concussion and brain injury in man. Taken in the context of modern packaging technology and other animal and mathematical modelling research, they suggest that brain injury preventive systems could be greatly improved over those now in common use.", "PMID": 454236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11075", "title": "Radiology of a large cisterna magna cyst. A case report.", "content": "A case of a large cisterna magna cyst presented a problem in differential diagnosis. Characteristic changes were shown on plain skull roentgenograms and on radionuclide brain scan. The diagnosis was established on the basis of pneumoencephalography and isotope cisternography. The lesion responded well to surgical management.", "contents": "Radiology of a large cisterna magna cyst. A case report. A case of a large cisterna magna cyst presented a problem in differential diagnosis. Characteristic changes were shown on plain skull roentgenograms and on radionuclide brain scan. The diagnosis was established on the basis of pneumoencephalography and isotope cisternography. The lesion responded well to surgical management.", "PMID": 454237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11076", "title": "Fibrosarcoma after proton-beam pituitary ablation.", "content": "In a case of malignant tumor after proton-beam radiotherapy, the course of the ophthalmoplegia was consistent with infiltration of the cavernous sinus. This was confirmed at autopsy.", "contents": "Fibrosarcoma after proton-beam pituitary ablation. In a case of malignant tumor after proton-beam radiotherapy, the course of the ophthalmoplegia was consistent with infiltration of the cavernous sinus. This was confirmed at autopsy.", "PMID": 454238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11077", "title": "Delayed cerebral radionecrosis following treatment of basal cell carcinoma.", "content": "Delayed radiation necrosis of the brain was found around the right ear in a patient with basal cell carcinoma of the skin. Five months after excision, the tumor recurred. The patient received 5,575 rads in 24 doses during radiotherapy. Thirteen months later, the patient had cerebral radionecrosis, which was the cause of death. At autopsy, typical radionecrotic lesions of the temporal lobe were found. There were widespread metastases.", "contents": "Delayed cerebral radionecrosis following treatment of basal cell carcinoma. Delayed radiation necrosis of the brain was found around the right ear in a patient with basal cell carcinoma of the skin. Five months after excision, the tumor recurred. The patient received 5,575 rads in 24 doses during radiotherapy. Thirteen months later, the patient had cerebral radionecrosis, which was the cause of death. At autopsy, typical radionecrotic lesions of the temporal lobe were found. There were widespread metastases.", "PMID": 454239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11078", "title": "Somatosensory evoked potentials recorded directly from human thalamus and Sm I cortical area.", "content": "Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) to median nerve stimulation were recorded from the nucleus ventralis caudalis. They consisted of monophasic or diphasic potentials with mean onset latency of 13.8 ms. More complex SEPs to median nerve stimulation were obtained from the cortex. The SEPs consisted of two major positive waves, P1 and P2, and were recorded over both the precentral and postcentral gyri, suggesting that somatosensory information converges to the motor cortex, probably to be used for the integration of critical motor activity. In two patients, it was noted that the motor representation of facial movements was larger than the correspondent sensory representation on the postcentral gyrus. This larger motor representation of the face and more specifically of the lips and tongue may be related to human acquisition of mimicry and articulation of language.", "contents": "Somatosensory evoked potentials recorded directly from human thalamus and Sm I cortical area. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) to median nerve stimulation were recorded from the nucleus ventralis caudalis. They consisted of monophasic or diphasic potentials with mean onset latency of 13.8 ms. More complex SEPs to median nerve stimulation were obtained from the cortex. The SEPs consisted of two major positive waves, P1 and P2, and were recorded over both the precentral and postcentral gyri, suggesting that somatosensory information converges to the motor cortex, probably to be used for the integration of critical motor activity. In two patients, it was noted that the motor representation of facial movements was larger than the correspondent sensory representation on the postcentral gyrus. This larger motor representation of the face and more specifically of the lips and tongue may be related to human acquisition of mimicry and articulation of language.", "PMID": 454244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11079", "title": "Open-biopsy electromyography. Direct correlation of a pattern of excessively recruited, pathologically small motor unit potentials with histologic evidence of neuropathy.", "content": "Open-biopsy electromyography (EMG) of two muscles of a 29-year-old man with slowly progressive proximal weakness demonstrated a striking pattern of excessively recruited, pathologically small motor unit potentials. This pattern is usually equated with myopathy. Histologic study of tissue enclosing the recording sites, however, yielded evidence of neurogenic disease alone. In muscle, this included isolated and small groups of atrophic type I, IIA, and IIB fibers, and in intramuscular nerve a loss of myelinated fibers with connective tissue and Schwann cell proliferation. The EMG pattern is considered to reflect a reduced number of activated muscle fibers within motor units due to random neurogenic involvement of terminal axons.", "contents": "Open-biopsy electromyography. Direct correlation of a pattern of excessively recruited, pathologically small motor unit potentials with histologic evidence of neuropathy. Open-biopsy electromyography (EMG) of two muscles of a 29-year-old man with slowly progressive proximal weakness demonstrated a striking pattern of excessively recruited, pathologically small motor unit potentials. This pattern is usually equated with myopathy. Histologic study of tissue enclosing the recording sites, however, yielded evidence of neurogenic disease alone. In muscle, this included isolated and small groups of atrophic type I, IIA, and IIB fibers, and in intramuscular nerve a loss of myelinated fibers with connective tissue and Schwann cell proliferation. The EMG pattern is considered to reflect a reduced number of activated muscle fibers within motor units due to random neurogenic involvement of terminal axons.", "PMID": 454245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11080", "title": "Effects of advancing age on regional cerebral blood flow. Studies in normal subjects and subjects with risk factors for atherothrombotic stroke.", "content": "Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by 133Xe inhalation in 46 normal volunteers, aged 21 to 63 years, and 14 neurologically asymptomatic subjects above age 40 with risk factors for atherothrombotic stroke, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. In normal volunteers, there was diffuse and progresive reduction of gray matter flow and weight as well as increases of cerebrovascular resistance (CVR) with advancing age. Reduction of gray matter flow with advancing age appears to be attributed in part to neuronal atrophy and in part to cerebral arteriosclerosis. Regional increases of CVR and reduction of gray matter flow with advancing age were most evident in the middle cerebral arterial (MCA) distribution and were enhanced by the association of risk factors. Development of cerebral arteriosclerosis with age and/or risk factors appears to be most evident in MCA distribution.", "contents": "Effects of advancing age on regional cerebral blood flow. Studies in normal subjects and subjects with risk factors for atherothrombotic stroke. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by 133Xe inhalation in 46 normal volunteers, aged 21 to 63 years, and 14 neurologically asymptomatic subjects above age 40 with risk factors for atherothrombotic stroke, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. In normal volunteers, there was diffuse and progresive reduction of gray matter flow and weight as well as increases of cerebrovascular resistance (CVR) with advancing age. Reduction of gray matter flow with advancing age appears to be attributed in part to neuronal atrophy and in part to cerebral arteriosclerosis. Regional increases of CVR and reduction of gray matter flow with advancing age were most evident in the middle cerebral arterial (MCA) distribution and were enhanced by the association of risk factors. Development of cerebral arteriosclerosis with age and/or risk factors appears to be most evident in MCA distribution.", "PMID": 454246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11081", "title": "Effect of calcium and antacids on phenytoin bioavailability.", "content": "The effects of bihourly administration of gluconate calcium and tow magnesium-aluminum-containing acids on the bioavailability of a single capsule dose of phenytoin sodium were determined in two normal volunteers. Neither the rate nor the extent of phenytoin absorption were altered by the treatments, in spite of indirect evidence from other studies that might suggest such an interaction. No interaction between calcium or magnesium and either unionized or anionic phenytoin could be demonstrated in vitro using solubility and spectral techniques.", "contents": "Effect of calcium and antacids on phenytoin bioavailability. The effects of bihourly administration of gluconate calcium and tow magnesium-aluminum-containing acids on the bioavailability of a single capsule dose of phenytoin sodium were determined in two normal volunteers. Neither the rate nor the extent of phenytoin absorption were altered by the treatments, in spite of indirect evidence from other studies that might suggest such an interaction. No interaction between calcium or magnesium and either unionized or anionic phenytoin could be demonstrated in vitro using solubility and spectral techniques.", "PMID": 454247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11082", "title": "Spinal cord ischemia and left atrial myxoma.", "content": "A 62-year-old man had an acute, transient, flaccid paraplegia. Examination showed a primary cardiac tumor with emboli to major branches of the aorta. A myxoma was removed from the left atrium, and normal function returned. Left atrial myxoma should be suspected as a cause for embolism to the CNS.", "contents": "Spinal cord ischemia and left atrial myxoma. A 62-year-old man had an acute, transient, flaccid paraplegia. Examination showed a primary cardiac tumor with emboli to major branches of the aorta. A myxoma was removed from the left atrium, and normal function returned. Left atrial myxoma should be suspected as a cause for embolism to the CNS.", "PMID": 454248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11083", "title": "Sudden monocular visual loss in pseudotumor cerebri.", "content": "We describe a patient with papilledema due to benign intracranial hypertension who had sudden, painless monocular visual loss. Fear of further visual deterioration prompted vigorous therapeutic efforts to reduce intracranial pressure. Subsequent neuro-ophthalmologic evaluation disclosed that the visual loss was due to a subretinal neovascular membrane. Vision continued to improve after medical therapy was discontinued, and was accompanied by complete resolution of papilledema and headache. In any patient with minimal papilledema, sudden visual deterioration should initiate a search for other causes rather than zealous therapeutic efforts to reduce intracranial pressure.", "contents": "Sudden monocular visual loss in pseudotumor cerebri. We describe a patient with papilledema due to benign intracranial hypertension who had sudden, painless monocular visual loss. Fear of further visual deterioration prompted vigorous therapeutic efforts to reduce intracranial pressure. Subsequent neuro-ophthalmologic evaluation disclosed that the visual loss was due to a subretinal neovascular membrane. Vision continued to improve after medical therapy was discontinued, and was accompanied by complete resolution of papilledema and headache. In any patient with minimal papilledema, sudden visual deterioration should initiate a search for other causes rather than zealous therapeutic efforts to reduce intracranial pressure.", "PMID": 454249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11084", "title": "Normal laboratory values of CSF during pregnancy.", "content": "Cerebrospinal fluid samples from 44 pregnant women undergoing spinal anesthesia for delivery were studied to determine whether an abdomen distended with a full-term fetus could alter the dynamics of lumbar CSF. The mean CSF values for opening pressure, CSF cell count, and protein concentration were all normal.", "contents": "Normal laboratory values of CSF during pregnancy. Cerebrospinal fluid samples from 44 pregnant women undergoing spinal anesthesia for delivery were studied to determine whether an abdomen distended with a full-term fetus could alter the dynamics of lumbar CSF. The mean CSF values for opening pressure, CSF cell count, and protein concentration were all normal.", "PMID": 454250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11085", "title": "Temporal orientation and education. A direct relationship in normal people.", "content": "Neurologists usually do not take socioeconomic status into account when evaluating temporal orientation. Our data indicate that this is a mistake: temporal orientation related directly to education, one measure os socioeconomic level, in New Jersey residents. The neurologist should suspect an abnormality in temporal orientation for patients with (1) some college training and (2) no education beyond high school, if they misstate the day of the month by more than one or three days, respectively.", "contents": "Temporal orientation and education. A direct relationship in normal people. Neurologists usually do not take socioeconomic status into account when evaluating temporal orientation. Our data indicate that this is a mistake: temporal orientation related directly to education, one measure os socioeconomic level, in New Jersey residents. The neurologist should suspect an abnormality in temporal orientation for patients with (1) some college training and (2) no education beyond high school, if they misstate the day of the month by more than one or three days, respectively.", "PMID": 454251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11086", "title": "Hysterical seizures.", "content": "Twenty-two inpatients with a discharge diagnosis of hysterical seizures were compared with 22 matched inpatients with a discharge diagnosis of epileptic seizures. There were significant differences between the groups in respect to family and personal history of psychiatric disorder, attempted suicide, sexual maladjustment, and a current affective syndrome.", "contents": "Hysterical seizures. Twenty-two inpatients with a discharge diagnosis of hysterical seizures were compared with 22 matched inpatients with a discharge diagnosis of epileptic seizures. There were significant differences between the groups in respect to family and personal history of psychiatric disorder, attempted suicide, sexual maladjustment, and a current affective syndrome.", "PMID": 454252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11087", "title": "Sciatic nerve compression during anticoagulation therapy. Computerized tomography aids in diagnosis.", "content": "Severe hip pain developed in a patient who was receiving anticoagulation therapy of heparin sodium and warfarin sodium (Coumadin) for femoral vein phlebitis. The patient had exquisite tenderness but no ecchymoses along the sciatic nerve. A drop in the hemoglobin level showed a large volume loss of blood. Retroperitoneal hematoma with lumbar plexopathy was suspected, but a computerized tomographic scan revealed instead hemorrhage into the gluteal muscles. The anticoagulation therapy was corrected with the addition of protamine sulfate and vitamin K; the patient's pain lessened and the hemoglobin level stabilized. Computerized tomography allowed clear visualization of the hematomas in the buttock, and invasive studies were avoided. Hip pain and a falling hemoglobin level in a patient receiving anticoagulation therapy should alert one to the possibility of bleeding into the retroperitoneal space, thigh, or buttock.", "contents": "Sciatic nerve compression during anticoagulation therapy. Computerized tomography aids in diagnosis. Severe hip pain developed in a patient who was receiving anticoagulation therapy of heparin sodium and warfarin sodium (Coumadin) for femoral vein phlebitis. The patient had exquisite tenderness but no ecchymoses along the sciatic nerve. A drop in the hemoglobin level showed a large volume loss of blood. Retroperitoneal hematoma with lumbar plexopathy was suspected, but a computerized tomographic scan revealed instead hemorrhage into the gluteal muscles. The anticoagulation therapy was corrected with the addition of protamine sulfate and vitamin K; the patient's pain lessened and the hemoglobin level stabilized. Computerized tomography allowed clear visualization of the hematomas in the buttock, and invasive studies were avoided. Hip pain and a falling hemoglobin level in a patient receiving anticoagulation therapy should alert one to the possibility of bleeding into the retroperitoneal space, thigh, or buttock.", "PMID": 454253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11088", "title": "The lens and pars plana vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy complications.", "content": "Major cataracts developed in 28 of 168 eyes during the six months after pars plana vitrectomy for complications of diabetic retinopathy. In only ten of these cases did the cataract influence the visual results. The visual acuities of the phakic and aphakic eyes six months after vitrectomy were almost identical. Rubeosis iridis occurred in 23% of the phakic eyes and 45% of the aphakic eyes, with the difference being related to the loss in the aphakic eyes of a protective barrier lens quality. However, this same barrier quality increased the incidence of postoperative opaque vitreous hemorrhage from 8% of the aphakic eyes to 21% of the phakic eyes. Corneal epithelial edema at surgery occurred in 55% of those eyes that had lens removal combined with vitrectomy, but in only 36% of those that retained their lenses, and the difference was caused by the increase in operative time and procedure.", "contents": "The lens and pars plana vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy complications. Major cataracts developed in 28 of 168 eyes during the six months after pars plana vitrectomy for complications of diabetic retinopathy. In only ten of these cases did the cataract influence the visual results. The visual acuities of the phakic and aphakic eyes six months after vitrectomy were almost identical. Rubeosis iridis occurred in 23% of the phakic eyes and 45% of the aphakic eyes, with the difference being related to the loss in the aphakic eyes of a protective barrier lens quality. However, this same barrier quality increased the incidence of postoperative opaque vitreous hemorrhage from 8% of the aphakic eyes to 21% of the phakic eyes. Corneal epithelial edema at surgery occurred in 55% of those eyes that had lens removal combined with vitrectomy, but in only 36% of those that retained their lenses, and the difference was caused by the increase in operative time and procedure.", "PMID": 454259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11089", "title": "Diabetic traction detachment.", "content": "One hundred thirty-six of 124 patients with diabetic traction detachment (TD) were observed for an average of 4.6 years (range, 3.0 to 9.4 years) with no surgical intervention. Visual acuity was maintained or improved in 51 of these eyes; 71 continued to be 20/200 or better. Diabetic TDs remained stable for long periods, those of more severe grade being more stable. At final examination, 60% (81/136) were graded at the same anatomic level (36/136) or an improved level (45/136). Spontaneous reattachment occurred in 20% (27/136); 78% (21/27) of these eyes had small detachments (TD1). The status of the vitreous and the vitreoretinal adhesion determined both the degree of detachment and the incidence of spontaneous reattachment.", "contents": "Diabetic traction detachment. One hundred thirty-six of 124 patients with diabetic traction detachment (TD) were observed for an average of 4.6 years (range, 3.0 to 9.4 years) with no surgical intervention. Visual acuity was maintained or improved in 51 of these eyes; 71 continued to be 20/200 or better. Diabetic TDs remained stable for long periods, those of more severe grade being more stable. At final examination, 60% (81/136) were graded at the same anatomic level (36/136) or an improved level (45/136). Spontaneous reattachment occurred in 20% (27/136); 78% (21/27) of these eyes had small detachments (TD1). The status of the vitreous and the vitreoretinal adhesion determined both the degree of detachment and the incidence of spontaneous reattachment.", "PMID": 454260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11090", "title": "Intraretinal macrocysts in retinal detachment.", "content": "Seven cases of retinal detachment were associated with ophthalmoscopically visible macrocysts. These cysts were associated with long-standing retinal detachment, particularly of the traumatic type with retinal dialysis. They arose from the outer plexiform layer of the retina. In four cases, the macrocyst extended to the ora serrata. Most macrocysts require no specific attention during retinal detachment repair. If the cyst prevents closure of the primary retinal break, we advocate its surgical drainage. Four cases in the present series required surgical collapse of the macrocyst.", "contents": "Intraretinal macrocysts in retinal detachment. Seven cases of retinal detachment were associated with ophthalmoscopically visible macrocysts. These cysts were associated with long-standing retinal detachment, particularly of the traumatic type with retinal dialysis. They arose from the outer plexiform layer of the retina. In four cases, the macrocyst extended to the ora serrata. Most macrocysts require no specific attention during retinal detachment repair. If the cyst prevents closure of the primary retinal break, we advocate its surgical drainage. Four cases in the present series required surgical collapse of the macrocyst.", "PMID": 454261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11091", "title": "Cryopexy treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Retinal cryoablation in patients with severe vitreous hemorrhage.", "content": "Severe diabetic retinopathy with neovascular proliferation may produce severe vitreous hemorrhage that prevents laser therapy. Retinal ablation, if indicated, can be partly accomplished by cryopexy. In a small series of cases, cryotherapy to the retina was not apparently harmful and sometimes seemed beneficial. Blood absorption seemed more rapid and recurrent bleeding less frequent; however, vitreous hemorrhages in proliferative diabetic retinopathy are too variable in their natural history of absorption and recurrence to permit any definite conclusion as to the value of this method of retinal ablation. A national collaborative study with lengthy follow-ups will be necessary to determine whether chorioretinal scars produced by laser therapy and those produced by cryotherapy will afford similar protection from the forward course of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage and blindness. In the meantime, this report is intended to alert ophthalmologists that retinal cryoablation is a conservation alternative to \"early\" vitrectomy for vitreous hemorrhages from diabetic retinopathy.", "contents": "Cryopexy treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Retinal cryoablation in patients with severe vitreous hemorrhage. Severe diabetic retinopathy with neovascular proliferation may produce severe vitreous hemorrhage that prevents laser therapy. Retinal ablation, if indicated, can be partly accomplished by cryopexy. In a small series of cases, cryotherapy to the retina was not apparently harmful and sometimes seemed beneficial. Blood absorption seemed more rapid and recurrent bleeding less frequent; however, vitreous hemorrhages in proliferative diabetic retinopathy are too variable in their natural history of absorption and recurrence to permit any definite conclusion as to the value of this method of retinal ablation. A national collaborative study with lengthy follow-ups will be necessary to determine whether chorioretinal scars produced by laser therapy and those produced by cryotherapy will afford similar protection from the forward course of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage and blindness. In the meantime, this report is intended to alert ophthalmologists that retinal cryoablation is a conservation alternative to \"early\" vitrectomy for vitreous hemorrhages from diabetic retinopathy.", "PMID": 454262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11092", "title": "Stargardt's disease and fundus flavimaculatus.", "content": "A study of 67 patients with a diagnosis of Stargardt's disease (juvenile macular degeneration) or fundus flavimaculatus showed that, apart from the ophthalmoscopic appearance, there is no clear distinction between these two disorders. The disease is an autosomal recessive macular degeneration that is bilateral and symmetrical in appearance, with diminished central vision as the hallmark symptom. The onset of symptoms usually occurred in the first or second decade, but a substantial number of patients were asymptomatic until the fourth or fifth decade. Psychophysical and electrophysiologic tests indicated that this is a localized and not a generalized retinal dystrophy. While the initial vision in the better eye was 6/12 (20/40) or better in one third of the patients, follow-up studies showed progression to levels between 6/30 (20/100) and 6/60 (20/400).", "contents": "Stargardt's disease and fundus flavimaculatus. A study of 67 patients with a diagnosis of Stargardt's disease (juvenile macular degeneration) or fundus flavimaculatus showed that, apart from the ophthalmoscopic appearance, there is no clear distinction between these two disorders. The disease is an autosomal recessive macular degeneration that is bilateral and symmetrical in appearance, with diminished central vision as the hallmark symptom. The onset of symptoms usually occurred in the first or second decade, but a substantial number of patients were asymptomatic until the fourth or fifth decade. Psychophysical and electrophysiologic tests indicated that this is a localized and not a generalized retinal dystrophy. While the initial vision in the better eye was 6/12 (20/40) or better in one third of the patients, follow-up studies showed progression to levels between 6/30 (20/100) and 6/60 (20/400).", "PMID": 454263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11093", "title": "Dominant retinitis pigmentosa with reduced penetrance. Further studies of the electroretinogram.", "content": "Full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded after a ten-year interval from four affected patients in a family with dominant retinitis pigmentosa with reduced penetrance; all patients showed decreases in amplitude. Cone ERGs from affected patients (aged 11 to 15 years) in this family as well as from affected patients of comparable ages from two other families with this genetic type, were normal or slightly reduced in amplitude and substantially delayed in b-wave implicit time. In one family, an asymptomatic older patient, representing an apparent skipped generation, showed abnormal full-field cone and rod ERGs that differed in implicit times from those of young affected patients. Evidence is presented to support the idea that the abnormal full-field cone ERGs recorded from young affected patients are due to an abnormal extrafoveal cone contribution to their full-field responses.", "contents": "Dominant retinitis pigmentosa with reduced penetrance. Further studies of the electroretinogram. Full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded after a ten-year interval from four affected patients in a family with dominant retinitis pigmentosa with reduced penetrance; all patients showed decreases in amplitude. Cone ERGs from affected patients (aged 11 to 15 years) in this family as well as from affected patients of comparable ages from two other families with this genetic type, were normal or slightly reduced in amplitude and substantially delayed in b-wave implicit time. In one family, an asymptomatic older patient, representing an apparent skipped generation, showed abnormal full-field cone and rod ERGs that differed in implicit times from those of young affected patients. Evidence is presented to support the idea that the abnormal full-field cone ERGs recorded from young affected patients are due to an abnormal extrafoveal cone contribution to their full-field responses.", "PMID": 454264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11094", "title": "Fenestrated sheen macular dystrophy. A new autosomal dominant maculopathy.", "content": "A new, slowly progressive, autosomal dominant macular dystrophy was found in five patients from three generations of a family, with follow-up for long as 27 years. The mild functional abnormalities of this dystrophy were roughly correlated with age; in the sixth decade of life, paracentral scotomatous areas were noted. The earliest ophthalmoscopic findings were present in a 4-year-old and consisted of a yellowish refractile sheen with red fenestrations within the sensory retina of the macula. By the third decade, an annular zone of hypopigmentation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) appeared around the area of the sheen and progressively enlarged. Surrounding the annular zone of hypopigmentation and at its center was slightly hyperpigmented RPE (bull's-eye lesion). Fluorescein angiography showed no abnormalities in the sensory retina and intact perfusion of choriocapillaris.", "contents": "Fenestrated sheen macular dystrophy. A new autosomal dominant maculopathy. A new, slowly progressive, autosomal dominant macular dystrophy was found in five patients from three generations of a family, with follow-up for long as 27 years. The mild functional abnormalities of this dystrophy were roughly correlated with age; in the sixth decade of life, paracentral scotomatous areas were noted. The earliest ophthalmoscopic findings were present in a 4-year-old and consisted of a yellowish refractile sheen with red fenestrations within the sensory retina of the macula. By the third decade, an annular zone of hypopigmentation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) appeared around the area of the sheen and progressively enlarged. Surrounding the annular zone of hypopigmentation and at its center was slightly hyperpigmented RPE (bull's-eye lesion). Fluorescein angiography showed no abnormalities in the sensory retina and intact perfusion of choriocapillaris.", "PMID": 454265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11095", "title": "Hypotony due to inadvertent cyclodialysis after intraocular lens implantation.", "content": "Six patients had hypotony from inadvertent cyclodialysis after intraocular lens implantation. Factors that may have contributed to the formation or persistence of the cyclodialysis are scleral cataract incision, prolonged postoperative course of corticosteroid treatment, intraocular lens weight, iridectomy, and maneuvers related to insertion and fixation of the intraocular lens. Closure of these cyclodialysis clefts may be a lengthy process involving various treatment modalities. Fortunately, cyclodialysis with hypotony, although increased in incidence with intraocular lens surgery over routine extraction, occurs rarely.", "contents": "Hypotony due to inadvertent cyclodialysis after intraocular lens implantation. Six patients had hypotony from inadvertent cyclodialysis after intraocular lens implantation. Factors that may have contributed to the formation or persistence of the cyclodialysis are scleral cataract incision, prolonged postoperative course of corticosteroid treatment, intraocular lens weight, iridectomy, and maneuvers related to insertion and fixation of the intraocular lens. Closure of these cyclodialysis clefts may be a lengthy process involving various treatment modalities. Fortunately, cyclodialysis with hypotony, although increased in incidence with intraocular lens surgery over routine extraction, occurs rarely.", "PMID": 454266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11096", "title": "The electroretinogram in retinitis pigmentosa.", "content": "Examination of electroretinographic (ERG) reports from 70 consecutive patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) showed that photopic and scotopic B-wave amplitudes correlated with age and visual acuity, but not with dark adaptation threshold. No appreciable differences in ERG characteristics (including B-wave implicit time) were observed between recessive, dominant, and X-linked cases. However, the ERG findings from one group of patients stood out clearly from the rest, because of normal flicker B-wave implicit times (less than or equal to 32 ms) and large B-wave amplitudes (less than or equal to 100 muV under scotopic conditions). These patients constitute a recognizable subgroup of RP, independent of the mode of inheritance, which is characterized by delimited disease, mild functional symptoms, and a good visual prognosis.", "contents": "The electroretinogram in retinitis pigmentosa. Examination of electroretinographic (ERG) reports from 70 consecutive patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) showed that photopic and scotopic B-wave amplitudes correlated with age and visual acuity, but not with dark adaptation threshold. No appreciable differences in ERG characteristics (including B-wave implicit time) were observed between recessive, dominant, and X-linked cases. However, the ERG findings from one group of patients stood out clearly from the rest, because of normal flicker B-wave implicit times (less than or equal to 32 ms) and large B-wave amplitudes (less than or equal to 100 muV under scotopic conditions). These patients constitute a recognizable subgroup of RP, independent of the mode of inheritance, which is characterized by delimited disease, mild functional symptoms, and a good visual prognosis.", "PMID": 454267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11097", "title": "Paradoxical intraocular pressure response to pilocarpine. A proposed mechanism and treatment.", "content": "A patient with unilateral angle-recession glaucoma had an ipsilateral increased intraocular pressure (IOP) with miotics despite open angles, and decreased IOP with cycloplegics. The following mechanism is proposed to explain these findings: Pilocarpine hydrochloride has been demonstrated experimentally to increase trabecular outflow and decrease uveoscleral outflow. In this eye with a severely compromised and unresponsive trabecular outflow, miotics served to impair uveoscleral outflow and cause a net rise in IOP. Similarly, an increase in uveoscleral outflow with cycloplegics served to decrease IOP. The use of atrophine sulfate in these rate cases may be of therapeutic value in lieu of systemic or surgical therapy.", "contents": "Paradoxical intraocular pressure response to pilocarpine. A proposed mechanism and treatment. A patient with unilateral angle-recession glaucoma had an ipsilateral increased intraocular pressure (IOP) with miotics despite open angles, and decreased IOP with cycloplegics. The following mechanism is proposed to explain these findings: Pilocarpine hydrochloride has been demonstrated experimentally to increase trabecular outflow and decrease uveoscleral outflow. In this eye with a severely compromised and unresponsive trabecular outflow, miotics served to impair uveoscleral outflow and cause a net rise in IOP. Similarly, an increase in uveoscleral outflow with cycloplegics served to decrease IOP. The use of atrophine sulfate in these rate cases may be of therapeutic value in lieu of systemic or surgical therapy.", "PMID": 454268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11098", "title": "Blood reflux in Schlemm's canal. I. Normal findings.", "content": "Blood may be refluxed into Schlemm's canal in the normal eye by occlusion of recipient veins in a sector of the conjunctiva and episclera. The blood makes the anterior margin of the canal distinct near the midportion of the trabecular mesh at the same place in which it is seen after hypotony. Circumferential flow in segments of the canal is possible when a pressure head exists to promote such flow. Evidence was found that the canal is not partially collapsed in the normal eye.", "contents": "Blood reflux in Schlemm's canal. I. Normal findings. Blood may be refluxed into Schlemm's canal in the normal eye by occlusion of recipient veins in a sector of the conjunctiva and episclera. The blood makes the anterior margin of the canal distinct near the midportion of the trabecular mesh at the same place in which it is seen after hypotony. Circumferential flow in segments of the canal is possible when a pressure head exists to promote such flow. Evidence was found that the canal is not partially collapsed in the normal eye.", "PMID": 454269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11099", "title": "Fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Its use in orbital tumors.", "content": "Fifteen orbital tumors have been evaluated with the fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) technique. The best indication for FNAB is supposed malignant orbital disease. The technique has not been helpful in tumors or inflammatory disease with a high fibrous content. Lesions that are suspected of being pseudotumors are not recommended for FNAB since, even in histologic sections, they are notoriously difficult to distinguish from well-differentiated lymphocytic malignant lymphoma. Benign encapsulated tumors should not be subjected to FNAB.", "contents": "Fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Its use in orbital tumors. Fifteen orbital tumors have been evaluated with the fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) technique. The best indication for FNAB is supposed malignant orbital disease. The technique has not been helpful in tumors or inflammatory disease with a high fibrous content. Lesions that are suspected of being pseudotumors are not recommended for FNAB since, even in histologic sections, they are notoriously difficult to distinguish from well-differentiated lymphocytic malignant lymphoma. Benign encapsulated tumors should not be subjected to FNAB.", "PMID": 454270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11100", "title": "Silicone tube intubation of the lacrimal drainage system.", "content": "We report 158 silicone tubes placed in the lacrimal drainage systems in 150 patients. Intubation is indicated in the following: congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction, fresh canalicular lacerations, primary canalicular disease, complicated dacryocystorhinostomies, canaliculorhinostomies, and failed dacryocystorhinostomies. The procedure may be useful prophylactically before surgery or radiation of the medial canthal region.", "contents": "Silicone tube intubation of the lacrimal drainage system. We report 158 silicone tubes placed in the lacrimal drainage systems in 150 patients. Intubation is indicated in the following: congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction, fresh canalicular lacerations, primary canalicular disease, complicated dacryocystorhinostomies, canaliculorhinostomies, and failed dacryocystorhinostomies. The procedure may be useful prophylactically before surgery or radiation of the medial canthal region.", "PMID": 454271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11101", "title": "Stimulation of corneal wound healing with mesodermal growth factor.", "content": "Mesodermal growth factor (MGF) from mouse submaxillary glands was tested in vivo for stimulating effects on corneal wounds in rabbits. Intrastromal injection of 5 microgram of MGF induced widespread fibroblast activity and stromal cell division, and markedly stimulated stromal healing. At high doses (greater than 25 microgram), corneal destruction was indicated by extensive necrosis and perforation. When low doses (1 to 5 microgram) of MGF were applied to the lip of nonperforating knife wounds of the cornea, three major differences were noted between control and experimental wounds. In wounds treated with MGF, the depth of stromal healing was greater, as was the intensity of the fibroblast activity, and the width and depth of the epithelial plug were significantly decreased. These results establish that MGF is an effective growth-stimulating agent in vivo and that the initial stages of corneal wound healing may be accelerated in vivo.", "contents": "Stimulation of corneal wound healing with mesodermal growth factor. Mesodermal growth factor (MGF) from mouse submaxillary glands was tested in vivo for stimulating effects on corneal wounds in rabbits. Intrastromal injection of 5 microgram of MGF induced widespread fibroblast activity and stromal cell division, and markedly stimulated stromal healing. At high doses (greater than 25 microgram), corneal destruction was indicated by extensive necrosis and perforation. When low doses (1 to 5 microgram) of MGF were applied to the lip of nonperforating knife wounds of the cornea, three major differences were noted between control and experimental wounds. In wounds treated with MGF, the depth of stromal healing was greater, as was the intensity of the fibroblast activity, and the width and depth of the epithelial plug were significantly decreased. These results establish that MGF is an effective growth-stimulating agent in vivo and that the initial stages of corneal wound healing may be accelerated in vivo.", "PMID": 454272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11102", "title": "Choroidal blood flow. IV. effect of vasodilating agents.", "content": "The effect of vasodilators on choroidal blood flow (CBF) was studied by the krypton clathrate Kr 85 desaturation technique in anesthetized cats. Niacin, papaverine hydrochloride, phentolamine mesylate, and tolazoline hydrochloride were injected via the lateral long posterior ciliary artery (LLPCA) and the femoral artery. The systemic administration of these drugs via the femoral artery, in the doses used, had no significant effect on mean arterial pressure, choroidal vascular resistance (CVR), or CBF. Local administration of the same agents via the LLPCA caused a decrease in CVR with a corresponding increase in CBF.", "contents": "Choroidal blood flow. IV. effect of vasodilating agents. The effect of vasodilators on choroidal blood flow (CBF) was studied by the krypton clathrate Kr 85 desaturation technique in anesthetized cats. Niacin, papaverine hydrochloride, phentolamine mesylate, and tolazoline hydrochloride were injected via the lateral long posterior ciliary artery (LLPCA) and the femoral artery. The systemic administration of these drugs via the femoral artery, in the doses used, had no significant effect on mean arterial pressure, choroidal vascular resistance (CVR), or CBF. Local administration of the same agents via the LLPCA caused a decrease in CVR with a corresponding increase in CBF.", "PMID": 454273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11103", "title": "Drainage of microspheres and RBCs from the vitreous of aphakic and phakic eyes.", "content": "The movements of plastic microspheres (7 to 10 mu in diameter) and autologous RBCs labeled with sodium chromate Cr 51 from the vitreous to the anterior chamber were studied in 24 rabbit eyes. Rabbits were made aphakic in one eye by intracapsular lens extraction of lensectomy via the pars plana, the fellow eyes serving as phakic controls. In phakic eyes the intravitreally injected microspheres and RBCs were retained inside the vitreous space, not gaining access to the anterior chamber. In aphakic eyes microspheres and RBCs moved to the anterior chamber and were usually seen on the corneal endothelium and in the chamber angle within two to ten days, although most particles remained in the vitreous for long periods of time. Removal of the lens thus improved forward drainage of particles from the vitreous space, but the structure of the vitreous seemed to preclude rapid clearance.", "contents": "Drainage of microspheres and RBCs from the vitreous of aphakic and phakic eyes. The movements of plastic microspheres (7 to 10 mu in diameter) and autologous RBCs labeled with sodium chromate Cr 51 from the vitreous to the anterior chamber were studied in 24 rabbit eyes. Rabbits were made aphakic in one eye by intracapsular lens extraction of lensectomy via the pars plana, the fellow eyes serving as phakic controls. In phakic eyes the intravitreally injected microspheres and RBCs were retained inside the vitreous space, not gaining access to the anterior chamber. In aphakic eyes microspheres and RBCs moved to the anterior chamber and were usually seen on the corneal endothelium and in the chamber angle within two to ten days, although most particles remained in the vitreous for long periods of time. Removal of the lens thus improved forward drainage of particles from the vitreous space, but the structure of the vitreous seemed to preclude rapid clearance.", "PMID": 454274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11104", "title": "Experimental model for scleritis.", "content": "Rabbits were sensitized over a prolonged period to ovalbumin by intradermal injection. Ovalbumin was then injected into the limbus of the eye. A corneoscleral lesion, similar to necrotizing scleritis in humans, was produced. The clinical progression of the lesion is described and its histologic appearance discussed in relation to the human disease.", "contents": "Experimental model for scleritis. Rabbits were sensitized over a prolonged period to ovalbumin by intradermal injection. Ovalbumin was then injected into the limbus of the eye. A corneoscleral lesion, similar to necrotizing scleritis in humans, was produced. The clinical progression of the lesion is described and its histologic appearance discussed in relation to the human disease.", "PMID": 454275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11105", "title": "Congenital pits of the optic nerve head. I. Experimental studies in collie dogs.", "content": "In three collie dogs with a congenital pit of the optic nerve and associated serous macular detachment, no connection between the subarachnoid space and the pit or subretinal fluid could be demonstrated with subarachnoid injection of India ink or with serial sections of the eyes. A direct communication between the vitreous, the pit, and the subretinal space could be demonstrated, however, in all three dogs. Flow of India ink particles from the vitreous to the pit and into the subretinal space was demonstrated. Indirect evidence to support the above mechanism in humans includes the biomicroscopic observation of channels coursing from the pit toward the subretinal space and the presence of posterior vitreous detachment or liquefaction of the vitreous in patients with optic pits and macular detachment.", "contents": "Congenital pits of the optic nerve head. I. Experimental studies in collie dogs. In three collie dogs with a congenital pit of the optic nerve and associated serous macular detachment, no connection between the subarachnoid space and the pit or subretinal fluid could be demonstrated with subarachnoid injection of India ink or with serial sections of the eyes. A direct communication between the vitreous, the pit, and the subretinal space could be demonstrated, however, in all three dogs. Flow of India ink particles from the vitreous to the pit and into the subretinal space was demonstrated. Indirect evidence to support the above mechanism in humans includes the biomicroscopic observation of channels coursing from the pit toward the subretinal space and the presence of posterior vitreous detachment or liquefaction of the vitreous in patients with optic pits and macular detachment.", "PMID": 454276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11106", "title": "Coaxial bipolar probe.", "content": "A coaxial electrode probe that uses the principle of bipolar coagulation is introduced to ophthalmic microsurgery. The central, or axial, electrode is insulated with silicone from the surrounding outer, or coaxial, diameter electrode. The probe uses available bipolar electrode cautery power and control sources. The distance between the electrode is fixed. Therefore, uniform and repeatable coagulations are attained under controlled power settings. Unwanted microscopic scleral shrinkage is eliminated, while desired scleral shrinkage is controlled. Precise pinpoint coagulations of individual capillaries are routine, especially at corneoscleral incision sites. Higher power settings produce a desired scleral marker in retinal surgery.", "contents": "Coaxial bipolar probe. A coaxial electrode probe that uses the principle of bipolar coagulation is introduced to ophthalmic microsurgery. The central, or axial, electrode is insulated with silicone from the surrounding outer, or coaxial, diameter electrode. The probe uses available bipolar electrode cautery power and control sources. The distance between the electrode is fixed. Therefore, uniform and repeatable coagulations are attained under controlled power settings. Unwanted microscopic scleral shrinkage is eliminated, while desired scleral shrinkage is controlled. Precise pinpoint coagulations of individual capillaries are routine, especially at corneoscleral incision sites. Higher power settings produce a desired scleral marker in retinal surgery.", "PMID": 454279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11107", "title": "Brainstem audiometry in neurotologic diagnosis.", "content": "Brainstem electric response audiometry (BERA) has been found to be a valuable adjunct to the neurotologic diagnosis. Ninety-eight percent of patients with surgically confirmed acoustic neuromas has positive BERA findings. We report six cases that illustrate the value of this technique in examining patients with suspected retrocochlear lesions.", "contents": "Brainstem audiometry in neurotologic diagnosis. Brainstem electric response audiometry (BERA) has been found to be a valuable adjunct to the neurotologic diagnosis. Ninety-eight percent of patients with surgically confirmed acoustic neuromas has positive BERA findings. We report six cases that illustrate the value of this technique in examining patients with suspected retrocochlear lesions.", "PMID": 454280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11108", "title": "Rhabdomyosarcoma of the temporal bone. Is surgical resection necessary?", "content": "Three patients had embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the temporal bone. Their clinical appearances demonstrated the following characteristics: (1) symptoms of an acute process in the middle ear cleft and mastoid, (2) a rapidly growing polypoid mass that was visible in the middle ear and external auditory canal, and (3) seventh nerve involvement and destruction of bone. Definitive treatment with the use of systemic chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the invaded structures was followed by maintenance chemotherapy for up to 24 months. Surgical treatment was sufficient to obtain adequate biopsy material. All patients recovered variable degrees of motor nerve functions. One patient experienced a meningococcal meningitis years after treatment; this condition resulted in total deafness. The results suggest that multiple-drug chemotherapy and radiation therapy for all involved areas are the mainstay of treatment for this disease entity.", "contents": "Rhabdomyosarcoma of the temporal bone. Is surgical resection necessary? Three patients had embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the temporal bone. Their clinical appearances demonstrated the following characteristics: (1) symptoms of an acute process in the middle ear cleft and mastoid, (2) a rapidly growing polypoid mass that was visible in the middle ear and external auditory canal, and (3) seventh nerve involvement and destruction of bone. Definitive treatment with the use of systemic chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the invaded structures was followed by maintenance chemotherapy for up to 24 months. Surgical treatment was sufficient to obtain adequate biopsy material. All patients recovered variable degrees of motor nerve functions. One patient experienced a meningococcal meningitis years after treatment; this condition resulted in total deafness. The results suggest that multiple-drug chemotherapy and radiation therapy for all involved areas are the mainstay of treatment for this disease entity.", "PMID": 454281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11109", "title": "A protocol for the air caloric test and a comparison with a standard water caloric test.", "content": "This communication describes the development of a protocol for the air caloric stimulus for vestibular testing. The protocol is based on matching the peak responses of air and water caloric stimuli and minimizing subject discomfort. Air stimulus temperatures of 30 and 44 degrees C are used, and these appear to minimize subject complaints of pain with the test. Composite data are presented from 16 normal subjects who were tested with the protocol. A comparison is made with their responses to a standard water protocol. Test-retest data for both air and water protocols are also presented, and these data indicate similar day-to-day variation in the two methods. On the basis of the work presented, it is concluded that the air protocol produces responses equivalent to that of standard water calorics in a group of normal subjects. Neither test was found, in the present experiments, to be particularly sensitive.", "contents": "A protocol for the air caloric test and a comparison with a standard water caloric test. This communication describes the development of a protocol for the air caloric stimulus for vestibular testing. The protocol is based on matching the peak responses of air and water caloric stimuli and minimizing subject discomfort. Air stimulus temperatures of 30 and 44 degrees C are used, and these appear to minimize subject complaints of pain with the test. Composite data are presented from 16 normal subjects who were tested with the protocol. A comparison is made with their responses to a standard water protocol. Test-retest data for both air and water protocols are also presented, and these data indicate similar day-to-day variation in the two methods. On the basis of the work presented, it is concluded that the air protocol produces responses equivalent to that of standard water calorics in a group of normal subjects. Neither test was found, in the present experiments, to be particularly sensitive.", "PMID": 454282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11110", "title": "Fractures of the zygoma. A geometric, biomechanical, and surgical analysis.", "content": "We present a four-part study of the cosmetic results of common zygomatic fracture reduction techniques: (1) a geometric analysis of an idealized paper and clay model; (2) a topographic analysis of zygomatic fractures in the dry skull; (3) a biomechanical analysis of fixation techniques in the fresh cadaver; and (4) a retrospective and prospective review of our clinical experience. The following are concluded: Alignment of the fracture at three points and fixation at two stable points provide the most accurate and satisfactory postoperative results. Masseteric contraction may cause late displacement in poorly fixed fractures. Two-point interosseous fixation at the \"buttress\" fracture and the frontozygomatic fracture is suitable for routine surgery. The infraorbital rim may be aligned through the gingivobuccal sulcus incision. Transcutaneous incisions may be limited to the brow incision. The transconjunctival approach is suitable for orbital floor repair.", "contents": "Fractures of the zygoma. A geometric, biomechanical, and surgical analysis. We present a four-part study of the cosmetic results of common zygomatic fracture reduction techniques: (1) a geometric analysis of an idealized paper and clay model; (2) a topographic analysis of zygomatic fractures in the dry skull; (3) a biomechanical analysis of fixation techniques in the fresh cadaver; and (4) a retrospective and prospective review of our clinical experience. The following are concluded: Alignment of the fracture at three points and fixation at two stable points provide the most accurate and satisfactory postoperative results. Masseteric contraction may cause late displacement in poorly fixed fractures. Two-point interosseous fixation at the \"buttress\" fracture and the frontozygomatic fracture is suitable for routine surgery. The infraorbital rim may be aligned through the gingivobuccal sulcus incision. Transcutaneous incisions may be limited to the brow incision. The transconjunctival approach is suitable for orbital floor repair.", "PMID": 454283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11111", "title": "Usage of CROS hearing aids by unilaterally deaf patients.", "content": "Fifty (58%) unilaterally deaf patients responded to a contralateral routing of signals (CROS) hearing aid usage questionnaire. Their actual usage in communicative environments was quite variable, with 50% to 60% of the time being the avarage in most of these situations. Mean communicative usage was essentially similar when the ambient nature of the environment could be described as quiet, speech competition, noise and/or speech babble, and reverberant/noisy. It is extremely difficult to determine who will be a successful CROS wearer on the basis of diagnostic results that are obtained with the use of earphones. Not every unilateral listener is a CROS candidate. The importance of a sound-field evaluation in a controlled environment, a trial period, and follow-up consultations cannot be overemphasized.", "contents": "Usage of CROS hearing aids by unilaterally deaf patients. Fifty (58%) unilaterally deaf patients responded to a contralateral routing of signals (CROS) hearing aid usage questionnaire. Their actual usage in communicative environments was quite variable, with 50% to 60% of the time being the avarage in most of these situations. Mean communicative usage was essentially similar when the ambient nature of the environment could be described as quiet, speech competition, noise and/or speech babble, and reverberant/noisy. It is extremely difficult to determine who will be a successful CROS wearer on the basis of diagnostic results that are obtained with the use of earphones. Not every unilateral listener is a CROS candidate. The importance of a sound-field evaluation in a controlled environment, a trial period, and follow-up consultations cannot be overemphasized.", "PMID": 454284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11112", "title": "Angiography and embolization of the internal maxillary artery for posterior epistaxis.", "content": "Epistaxis that originates from the posterior aspect of the nasal cavity is most often due to hemorrhage from one of the branches of the internal maxillary artery. There are multiple methods of treatment of this problem that vary in effectiveness, complexity, and stress on the patient. Most cases are controlled with either packing or surgical arterial ligation, but occasionally patients either cannot tolerate this therapy or continue to hemorrhage. We describe ten patients who were referred to the Neuroradiology Section of the Massachusetts General Hospital from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary for angiography and embolization of the internal maxillary artery for epistaxis.", "contents": "Angiography and embolization of the internal maxillary artery for posterior epistaxis. Epistaxis that originates from the posterior aspect of the nasal cavity is most often due to hemorrhage from one of the branches of the internal maxillary artery. There are multiple methods of treatment of this problem that vary in effectiveness, complexity, and stress on the patient. Most cases are controlled with either packing or surgical arterial ligation, but occasionally patients either cannot tolerate this therapy or continue to hemorrhage. We describe ten patients who were referred to the Neuroradiology Section of the Massachusetts General Hospital from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary for angiography and embolization of the internal maxillary artery for epistaxis.", "PMID": 454285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11113", "title": "Cystic fibrosis and hearing loss.", "content": "The mucosal epithelium of the middle ear and Eustachian tube is in direct continuity with the upper respiratory tract. Since the otolaryngological aspects of cystic fibrosis (CF) are dominated by involvement of the paranasal sinuses, it might be assumed that children with CF would be expected to have a higher than usual incidence of middle ear disease. Eighty patients who were afflicted with CF had audiological evaluations, which consisted of hearing threshold levels (250 to 8,000 Hz) and speech and impedance audiometry. We found no greater incidence of a conductive or sensorineural hearing loss in patients with CF when compared with a normal age-adjusted population.", "contents": "Cystic fibrosis and hearing loss. The mucosal epithelium of the middle ear and Eustachian tube is in direct continuity with the upper respiratory tract. Since the otolaryngological aspects of cystic fibrosis (CF) are dominated by involvement of the paranasal sinuses, it might be assumed that children with CF would be expected to have a higher than usual incidence of middle ear disease. Eighty patients who were afflicted with CF had audiological evaluations, which consisted of hearing threshold levels (250 to 8,000 Hz) and speech and impedance audiometry. We found no greater incidence of a conductive or sensorineural hearing loss in patients with CF when compared with a normal age-adjusted population.", "PMID": 454286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11114", "title": "Intracranial abscesses with behavioral changes.", "content": "Intracranial abscesses represent one of the most serious complications of ear and paranasal sinus infections. The infection may spread by bone erosion, preformed pathways, or septic thrombosis via the Haversian canals. This may result in subdural abscesses, meningitis, or intracerebral abscesses. These intracranial complications are associated with a high morbidity. The purpose of this communication is to emphasize that behavioral changes after ear or paranasal sinus infections may be a manifestation of an intracranial abscess.", "contents": "Intracranial abscesses with behavioral changes. Intracranial abscesses represent one of the most serious complications of ear and paranasal sinus infections. The infection may spread by bone erosion, preformed pathways, or septic thrombosis via the Haversian canals. This may result in subdural abscesses, meningitis, or intracerebral abscesses. These intracranial complications are associated with a high morbidity. The purpose of this communication is to emphasize that behavioral changes after ear or paranasal sinus infections may be a manifestation of an intracranial abscess.", "PMID": 454287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11115", "title": "Surgical management of the hypodynamic palate.", "content": "The most successful surgical correction of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) has been achieved in those patients in whom residual dynamic function of the soft palate/nasopharyngeal sphincter mechanism exists. In spite of the obvious need for rehabilitation, surgical reconstruction has often been advised against in those cases where the palate was hypodynamic or adynamic. We have developed a surgical procedure for these patients by utilizing a modification of Hogan's lateral port control pharyngeal flap method. We present the surgical considerations along with the initial application and results in four patients with hypodynamic palates of differing origins. We think that this technique extends surgical correction of VPI to the previously neglected group of patients in whom this condition is the result of a hypodynamic palate.", "contents": "Surgical management of the hypodynamic palate. The most successful surgical correction of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) has been achieved in those patients in whom residual dynamic function of the soft palate/nasopharyngeal sphincter mechanism exists. In spite of the obvious need for rehabilitation, surgical reconstruction has often been advised against in those cases where the palate was hypodynamic or adynamic. We have developed a surgical procedure for these patients by utilizing a modification of Hogan's lateral port control pharyngeal flap method. We present the surgical considerations along with the initial application and results in four patients with hypodynamic palates of differing origins. We think that this technique extends surgical correction of VPI to the previously neglected group of patients in whom this condition is the result of a hypodynamic palate.", "PMID": 454288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11116", "title": "Heparin therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.", "content": "Twenty-three patients with sudden unilateral sensorineural hearing loss were treated with a course of intravenous heparin sodium within one week of the onset of the hearing loss. Complete or good recovery developed in a total of 69.6% of these patients, but this is very similar to previously reported criteria of 66% spontaneous recovery. There was one complication in the series, ie. priapism.", "contents": "Heparin therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Twenty-three patients with sudden unilateral sensorineural hearing loss were treated with a course of intravenous heparin sodium within one week of the onset of the hearing loss. Complete or good recovery developed in a total of 69.6% of these patients, but this is very similar to previously reported criteria of 66% spontaneous recovery. There was one complication in the series, ie. priapism.", "PMID": 454289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11117", "title": "Usher's syndrome type III.", "content": "We describe a rare example of Usher's syndrome type III in a 9-year-old boy. This type is characterized by retinitis pigmentosa and progressive sensorineural deafness.", "contents": "Usher's syndrome type III. We describe a rare example of Usher's syndrome type III in a 9-year-old boy. This type is characterized by retinitis pigmentosa and progressive sensorineural deafness.", "PMID": 454290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11118", "title": "A modified intraoral electrolarynx.", "content": "Most electrolarynx devices currently available are designed to be hand-held. The postlaryngectomy patient who cannot develop esophageal speech and requires the use of both hands is clearly handicapped by this design. We report a modification of the intraoral (Cooper-Rand) electrolarynx that is not hand-held.", "contents": "A modified intraoral electrolarynx. Most electrolarynx devices currently available are designed to be hand-held. The postlaryngectomy patient who cannot develop esophageal speech and requires the use of both hands is clearly handicapped by this design. We report a modification of the intraoral (Cooper-Rand) electrolarynx that is not hand-held.", "PMID": 454291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11119", "title": "Radiation-induced pharyngeal stenosis. A report of two cases after planned postoperative radiation therapy.", "content": "Two cases of almost complete stenosis of the hypopharynx occurred after laryngectomy, radical neck dissection, and postoperative radiation therapy. Successful reconstruction that utilized a tubed, deltopectoral flap was accomplished in each case. In the absence of evidence indicating increased long-term survival with combined surgery and postoperative radiation therapy, one must question the utilization of these methods. Decreased local recurrence or cervical metastasis may not be an adequate justification if the rate of complications is notably increased, especially when complications can be as severe as these.", "contents": "Radiation-induced pharyngeal stenosis. A report of two cases after planned postoperative radiation therapy. Two cases of almost complete stenosis of the hypopharynx occurred after laryngectomy, radical neck dissection, and postoperative radiation therapy. Successful reconstruction that utilized a tubed, deltopectoral flap was accomplished in each case. In the absence of evidence indicating increased long-term survival with combined surgery and postoperative radiation therapy, one must question the utilization of these methods. Decreased local recurrence or cervical metastasis may not be an adequate justification if the rate of complications is notably increased, especially when complications can be as severe as these.", "PMID": 454292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11120", "title": "Tracheal carcinoma after tracheostomy.", "content": "The trachea is rarely the site of origin of a primary malignant tumor. Causal factors have not been determined, but cigarette smoking is one suspected cause. We report an unusual case of tracheal carcinoma that occurred many years after permanent tracheostomy for benign disease, and we review other cases of posttraumatic tracheal cancer. This study suggests that trauma can be a factor in the development of certain malignant tumors of the trachea.", "contents": "Tracheal carcinoma after tracheostomy. The trachea is rarely the site of origin of a primary malignant tumor. Causal factors have not been determined, but cigarette smoking is one suspected cause. We report an unusual case of tracheal carcinoma that occurred many years after permanent tracheostomy for benign disease, and we review other cases of posttraumatic tracheal cancer. This study suggests that trauma can be a factor in the development of certain malignant tumors of the trachea.", "PMID": 454293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11121", "title": "Glucagon and esophageal meat impaction.", "content": "Glucagon is suggested as an alternate method of treatment in difficult cases of esophageal meat impaction. Glucagon has been used in diagnostic roentgenology to facilitate smooth muscle relaxation. We describe its characteristics and mode of action, and we report two cases that emphasize the advantages of glucagon therapy as a primary modality or as an alternative in problem cases.", "contents": "Glucagon and esophageal meat impaction. Glucagon is suggested as an alternate method of treatment in difficult cases of esophageal meat impaction. Glucagon has been used in diagnostic roentgenology to facilitate smooth muscle relaxation. We describe its characteristics and mode of action, and we report two cases that emphasize the advantages of glucagon therapy as a primary modality or as an alternative in problem cases.", "PMID": 454294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11122", "title": "The meatally based musculoperiosteal flap in cavity obliteration.", "content": "A meatally based musculoperiosteal flap that was formed for radical mastoid cavity obliteration was deliberately excised during revision surgery in three cases of recurring tympanic cholesteatoma. The flaps, which contained subcutaneous connective tissue, were well vascularized and contained large, viable muscle bundles and many nerve trunks from the postauricular branch of the facial nerve. In two cases, the periosteum-attached bone chips that had been removed from the patient's mastoid tip region and implanted to form a new bony canal wall were viable and gave the intended support for the meatus after radical ear surgery.", "contents": "The meatally based musculoperiosteal flap in cavity obliteration. A meatally based musculoperiosteal flap that was formed for radical mastoid cavity obliteration was deliberately excised during revision surgery in three cases of recurring tympanic cholesteatoma. The flaps, which contained subcutaneous connective tissue, were well vascularized and contained large, viable muscle bundles and many nerve trunks from the postauricular branch of the facial nerve. In two cases, the periosteum-attached bone chips that had been removed from the patient's mastoid tip region and implanted to form a new bony canal wall were viable and gave the intended support for the meatus after radical ear surgery.", "PMID": 454295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11123", "title": "Patterns of ear disease in the southwestern American Indian.", "content": "Native Americans are predisposed to one of the highest incidences of otitis media in mankind. The origin of otitis media in Indians remains multifaceted. However, an unusually high prevalence of congenital anomalies of the ear and oral cavity, ie, oral clefts, facial paralysis in diabetics, and the absence of otosclerosis, suggest racial inheritance as a predominant factor for their pattern or ear disease. An analysis of outpatient and operative records at the Phoenix (Ariz) Indian Medical Center substantiates this hypothesis and shows contrasts in ear disease between American Indians and white persons.", "contents": "Patterns of ear disease in the southwestern American Indian. Native Americans are predisposed to one of the highest incidences of otitis media in mankind. The origin of otitis media in Indians remains multifaceted. However, an unusually high prevalence of congenital anomalies of the ear and oral cavity, ie, oral clefts, facial paralysis in diabetics, and the absence of otosclerosis, suggest racial inheritance as a predominant factor for their pattern or ear disease. An analysis of outpatient and operative records at the Phoenix (Ariz) Indian Medical Center substantiates this hypothesis and shows contrasts in ear disease between American Indians and white persons.", "PMID": 454296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11124", "title": "Binaural interaction in brainstem-evoked responses.", "content": "Binaural interaction (BI) in brainstem-auditory-evoked responses (BSERs) was defined as any deviation from the predictions of a model that assumes two independent monaural BSER generators whose outputs are additive. Brainstem-auditory-evoked responses were recorded in response to right (R) monaural, left (L) monaural, and binaural click stimuli. The monaural BSERs were added to give the model's prediction (P) of binaurally evoked BSER (P = L + R), and this trace was then subtracted from the actual binaurally evoked response (B). The resultant difference trace (d = b - p) represents the derived BI. In each of ten guinea pigs, a strong BI was present in the peak IV region (latency = 3.5 to 4.0 ms). This interaction is probably present with interaural intensity differences of up to 40 dB and interaural time differences of up to 3 ms. Preliminary studies suggest the presence of a similar phenomenon in human BSERs.", "contents": "Binaural interaction in brainstem-evoked responses. Binaural interaction (BI) in brainstem-auditory-evoked responses (BSERs) was defined as any deviation from the predictions of a model that assumes two independent monaural BSER generators whose outputs are additive. Brainstem-auditory-evoked responses were recorded in response to right (R) monaural, left (L) monaural, and binaural click stimuli. The monaural BSERs were added to give the model's prediction (P) of binaurally evoked BSER (P = L + R), and this trace was then subtracted from the actual binaurally evoked response (B). The resultant difference trace (d = b - p) represents the derived BI. In each of ten guinea pigs, a strong BI was present in the peak IV region (latency = 3.5 to 4.0 ms). This interaction is probably present with interaural intensity differences of up to 40 dB and interaural time differences of up to 3 ms. Preliminary studies suggest the presence of a similar phenomenon in human BSERs.", "PMID": 454297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11125", "title": "Surgical correction of maxillary hypoplasia.", "content": "In this report the pathophysiology of maxillary hypoplasia is reviewed, and two patients who underwent surgical treatment described. Included in the analyses are illustrations and photographs of the face, cephalometric measurements, predictive tracings, and model surgery. Corrective surgical techniques, consisting primarily of LeForte III osteotomies, are presented in detail. Segmental osteotomy of the lower jaw, sliding genioplasty, and augmentation rhinoplasty are discussed and shown as various adjunctive procedures in the correction of associated deformities. Postoperative tracings and photographs are used to illustrate the predictive changes and improved cosmetic and functional results.", "contents": "Surgical correction of maxillary hypoplasia. In this report the pathophysiology of maxillary hypoplasia is reviewed, and two patients who underwent surgical treatment described. Included in the analyses are illustrations and photographs of the face, cephalometric measurements, predictive tracings, and model surgery. Corrective surgical techniques, consisting primarily of LeForte III osteotomies, are presented in detail. Segmental osteotomy of the lower jaw, sliding genioplasty, and augmentation rhinoplasty are discussed and shown as various adjunctive procedures in the correction of associated deformities. Postoperative tracings and photographs are used to illustrate the predictive changes and improved cosmetic and functional results.", "PMID": 454298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11126", "title": "Nasal polypectomy in patients with asthma and sensitivity to aspirin.", "content": "Nasal polypectomy is safe in patients with asthma and intolerance to aspirin. Asthma should be controlled before polypectomy. Patency of the nasal airway after the operation and the effect of polypectomy on asthma are independent of severity of the asthma, history of atopy, and administration of steroids. We reviewed retrospectively the courses of 101 patients with the asthma triad who had nasal polypectomies between 1970 and 1974. Before polypectomy, 39 patients were hospitalized to control active asthma: during the postoperative hospitalization, 19 had wheezing, mostly mild. Of the 62 patients with inactive asthma, three had wheezing postoperatively. Asthmatic condition at one year after polypectomy, compared with the condition at one year before, was improved in 30 patients, worse in 14, and unchanged in the rest. Nasal airways remained good for at least one year in 60% of the patients.", "contents": "Nasal polypectomy in patients with asthma and sensitivity to aspirin. Nasal polypectomy is safe in patients with asthma and intolerance to aspirin. Asthma should be controlled before polypectomy. Patency of the nasal airway after the operation and the effect of polypectomy on asthma are independent of severity of the asthma, history of atopy, and administration of steroids. We reviewed retrospectively the courses of 101 patients with the asthma triad who had nasal polypectomies between 1970 and 1974. Before polypectomy, 39 patients were hospitalized to control active asthma: during the postoperative hospitalization, 19 had wheezing, mostly mild. Of the 62 patients with inactive asthma, three had wheezing postoperatively. Asthmatic condition at one year after polypectomy, compared with the condition at one year before, was improved in 30 patients, worse in 14, and unchanged in the rest. Nasal airways remained good for at least one year in 60% of the patients.", "PMID": 454299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11127", "title": "Facial nerve repair with tissue adhesive.", "content": "The facial nerve in dogs was exposed, transected, and repaired by either of two methods. Suture and a Silastic sheath was the control method, since a review of the literature suggests it gives the highest rate of success. A tissue adhesive (Histoacryl) was used as the experimental method. In both techniques, the surgical microscope was used. Thirteen nerves were repaired: seven with the adhesive and six with suture and Silastic sheath. Success was judged on two criteria: (1) observation of motion in the muscles that were innervated after electrical stimulation of the nerve proximal to the repair site and (2) evaluation of microanatomical continuity after removal of the repair site and preparation of slides and tissues staining. The two repair methods produced statistically equal results. The \"adhesive\" method can be performed with greater ease and is less time-consuming. The number of studies required for statistical reliability was determined by means of sequential analysis.", "contents": "Facial nerve repair with tissue adhesive. The facial nerve in dogs was exposed, transected, and repaired by either of two methods. Suture and a Silastic sheath was the control method, since a review of the literature suggests it gives the highest rate of success. A tissue adhesive (Histoacryl) was used as the experimental method. In both techniques, the surgical microscope was used. Thirteen nerves were repaired: seven with the adhesive and six with suture and Silastic sheath. Success was judged on two criteria: (1) observation of motion in the muscles that were innervated after electrical stimulation of the nerve proximal to the repair site and (2) evaluation of microanatomical continuity after removal of the repair site and preparation of slides and tissues staining. The two repair methods produced statistically equal results. The \"adhesive\" method can be performed with greater ease and is less time-consuming. The number of studies required for statistical reliability was determined by means of sequential analysis.", "PMID": 454300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11128", "title": "Head and neck manifestations of Maffucci's syndrome.", "content": "Maffucci's syndrome consists of multiple cutaneous hemangiomas, dyschondroplasia, and often enchondroma. Once considered as a rare disorder, the syndrome has been frequently recognized and reported in the last 20 years. We report a case of multiple neoplasms of the head and neck and review the literature with regard to those manifestations of Maffucci's syndrome in the head and neck area. We also discuss treatment and the potential for malignant change.", "contents": "Head and neck manifestations of Maffucci's syndrome. Maffucci's syndrome consists of multiple cutaneous hemangiomas, dyschondroplasia, and often enchondroma. Once considered as a rare disorder, the syndrome has been frequently recognized and reported in the last 20 years. We report a case of multiple neoplasms of the head and neck and review the literature with regard to those manifestations of Maffucci's syndrome in the head and neck area. We also discuss treatment and the potential for malignant change.", "PMID": 454301} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11129", "title": "Pediatric otoscopy and photography of the tympanic membrane.", "content": "A further miniaturization of the lens telescopes (Hopkins Rod) has resulted in a telescope (length, 6 cm; diameter, 2.7 mm) that is suitable for pediatric otoscopy. The adaptation of otoscopic specula, a lightweight motor-driven remote flash camera, and movie and video photography to this telescope has resulted in a system that represents a significant advance in the examination of the ear. In this study, we document ear diseases in children with the use of color photographs.", "contents": "Pediatric otoscopy and photography of the tympanic membrane. A further miniaturization of the lens telescopes (Hopkins Rod) has resulted in a telescope (length, 6 cm; diameter, 2.7 mm) that is suitable for pediatric otoscopy. The adaptation of otoscopic specula, a lightweight motor-driven remote flash camera, and movie and video photography to this telescope has resulted in a system that represents a significant advance in the examination of the ear. In this study, we document ear diseases in children with the use of color photographs.", "PMID": 454302} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11130", "title": "Macrocytic anaemia.", "content": "Macrocytosis of red cells is now more easily and precisely detected in the laboratory by the adoption of electronic methods of cell volume measurement. This means the practitioner will be more frequently faced with the problem of what an elevated mean corpuscular volume (MCV) means. Macrocytic anaemia is not synonymous with folate or cobalamin deficiency, there being many causes of non-megaloblastic macrocytosis including excess alcohol, hypothyroidism, and liver disease. The commonest cause is blood regeneration as after a bleed, or in response to a haematinic or in haemolysis, as reticulocytes are large red cells and will raise the MCV. Megaloblastic anaemia, as in folate or cobalamin deficiency, has a normal or low reticulocyte count and a multiplicity of causes which must be identified as the cause may require treatment in its own right as well as the prescription of the required vitamin.", "contents": "Macrocytic anaemia. Macrocytosis of red cells is now more easily and precisely detected in the laboratory by the adoption of electronic methods of cell volume measurement. This means the practitioner will be more frequently faced with the problem of what an elevated mean corpuscular volume (MCV) means. Macrocytic anaemia is not synonymous with folate or cobalamin deficiency, there being many causes of non-megaloblastic macrocytosis including excess alcohol, hypothyroidism, and liver disease. The commonest cause is blood regeneration as after a bleed, or in response to a haematinic or in haemolysis, as reticulocytes are large red cells and will raise the MCV. Megaloblastic anaemia, as in folate or cobalamin deficiency, has a normal or low reticulocyte count and a multiplicity of causes which must be identified as the cause may require treatment in its own right as well as the prescription of the required vitamin.", "PMID": 454310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11131", "title": "Visual-vestibular interactions: I. Influence of peripheral vision on suppression of the vestibulo-ocular reflex and visual acuity.", "content": "Legibility of head-fixed displays in some motion environments is partially dependent upon visual suppression of the vestibuloocular reflex (VOR). This study investigates the effects of differing relationships between peripheral background movement and whole-body motion on the VOR and on visual performance. The purpose of the study is to explore factors in motion environments that influence performance limits and to develop procedures of potential usefulness in evaluating interacting visual and vestibular function. Visual performance and visual suppression of the VOR were markedly different, depending upon the relative direction of peripheral background movement. Visual suppression of the VOR, and visual performance, were disrupted far more when vestibular inputs and peripheral optokinetic inputs were discordant than when they were concordant. Results have potential implications for head-up displays and suggest a procedure for evaluating visual/vestibular function.", "contents": "Visual-vestibular interactions: I. Influence of peripheral vision on suppression of the vestibulo-ocular reflex and visual acuity. Legibility of head-fixed displays in some motion environments is partially dependent upon visual suppression of the vestibuloocular reflex (VOR). This study investigates the effects of differing relationships between peripheral background movement and whole-body motion on the VOR and on visual performance. The purpose of the study is to explore factors in motion environments that influence performance limits and to develop procedures of potential usefulness in evaluating interacting visual and vestibular function. Visual performance and visual suppression of the VOR were markedly different, depending upon the relative direction of peripheral background movement. Visual suppression of the VOR, and visual performance, were disrupted far more when vestibular inputs and peripheral optokinetic inputs were discordant than when they were concordant. Results have potential implications for head-up displays and suggest a procedure for evaluating visual/vestibular function.", "PMID": 454317} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11132", "title": "RBC-51Cr half-life and albumin turnover in growing beagle dogs during chronic radial acceleration.", "content": "The effects of chronic centrifugation on growing Beagle dogs exposed to -2 or -2.6 Gx on albumin and RBC turnover rates, albumin concentration and space, and total blood volume were determined and compared with caged and run control animals. Albumin-125I and autologous RBC-51Cr preparations were injected into all dogs at day 82 of the centrifugation period and the disappearance curves were determined by successive bleedings of the animals over the next 35 d, during which the centrifugation was continued. There were no differences in albumin turnover rates or space. Two populations of RBCs were found in both centrifuged groups, one with a normal half-life of 27 +/- 1 S.E.M. d, and one with a significantly ( less than 0.01) shorter half-life of 15 +/- 2 S.E.M. d. An absolute polycythemia was also observed in both centrifuged groups. The results suggest that chronic centrifugation acts through some as yet unknown mechanism to affect RBC population kinetics.", "contents": "RBC-51Cr half-life and albumin turnover in growing beagle dogs during chronic radial acceleration. The effects of chronic centrifugation on growing Beagle dogs exposed to -2 or -2.6 Gx on albumin and RBC turnover rates, albumin concentration and space, and total blood volume were determined and compared with caged and run control animals. Albumin-125I and autologous RBC-51Cr preparations were injected into all dogs at day 82 of the centrifugation period and the disappearance curves were determined by successive bleedings of the animals over the next 35 d, during which the centrifugation was continued. There were no differences in albumin turnover rates or space. Two populations of RBCs were found in both centrifuged groups, one with a normal half-life of 27 +/- 1 S.E.M. d, and one with a significantly ( less than 0.01) shorter half-life of 15 +/- 2 S.E.M. d. An absolute polycythemia was also observed in both centrifuged groups. The results suggest that chronic centrifugation acts through some as yet unknown mechanism to affect RBC population kinetics.", "PMID": 454318} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11133", "title": "Systolic time intervals during combined hand cooling and head-up tilt.", "content": "Cardiac effects initiated by hand cooling and head-up tilt, separately and in combination, were studied in human subjects. Systolic and diastolic arterial pressures, heart rate, pre-ejection period (PEP), and left ventricular ejection time (LVET) were measured while subjects were resting supine, supine with hand immersed in 10 degrees C water, tilted 70 degrees head up, and hand immersed during head-up tilt. Hand immersion and head-up tilt individually increased diastolic blood pressure and concomitantly increased the duration of PEP. During the combined maneuver, the increase in diastolic pressure was greater than observed during either separate maneuver; however, the combined maneuver had no comparable summative effect on PEP prolongation. An interaction appears to occur during the combined maneuver which counteracts the Frank/Starling effect on PEP due to decreased venous return during head-up tilt.", "contents": "Systolic time intervals during combined hand cooling and head-up tilt. Cardiac effects initiated by hand cooling and head-up tilt, separately and in combination, were studied in human subjects. Systolic and diastolic arterial pressures, heart rate, pre-ejection period (PEP), and left ventricular ejection time (LVET) were measured while subjects were resting supine, supine with hand immersed in 10 degrees C water, tilted 70 degrees head up, and hand immersed during head-up tilt. Hand immersion and head-up tilt individually increased diastolic blood pressure and concomitantly increased the duration of PEP. During the combined maneuver, the increase in diastolic pressure was greater than observed during either separate maneuver; however, the combined maneuver had no comparable summative effect on PEP prolongation. An interaction appears to occur during the combined maneuver which counteracts the Frank/Starling effect on PEP due to decreased venous return during head-up tilt.", "PMID": 454319} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11134", "title": "Changes in serum ferritin and other factors associated with iron metabolism during chronic hyperbaric exposure.", "content": "Factors related to iron metabolism were determined in 20 United States Navy divers during 8 d of air saturation-excursion hyperbaric exposures. During these simulated dives progressive and correlated increases in serum ferritin and iron occurred. No significant changes were observed in bilirubin, hemoglobin, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, copper, or total iron binding capacity. The significance of the increased serum ferritin is discussed in relation to bone marrow damage and early detection of aseptic bone necrosis.", "contents": "Changes in serum ferritin and other factors associated with iron metabolism during chronic hyperbaric exposure. Factors related to iron metabolism were determined in 20 United States Navy divers during 8 d of air saturation-excursion hyperbaric exposures. During these simulated dives progressive and correlated increases in serum ferritin and iron occurred. No significant changes were observed in bilirubin, hemoglobin, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, copper, or total iron binding capacity. The significance of the increased serum ferritin is discussed in relation to bone marrow damage and early detection of aseptic bone necrosis.", "PMID": 454320} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11135", "title": "Human facial temperatures in natural and laboratory cold.", "content": "Asian, European, and American Indian men were subjected to craniofacial cooling to determine relative ranking and temperature curves for various facial skin sites. Moving and still air 0 degrees C to -35 degrees C in both laboratory and subarctic outdoor settings were used. The objective was to examine resistance to facial frostbite. Facial temperatures stabilize well above freezing even under quite cold conditions and this conclusion is congruent with low incidences of facial frostbite. Racial differences in face temperatures were clearly shown at only the malar eminence, and there was some evidence that exercise can be used to enhance facial circulation. These results and those of other studies reviewed demonstrate that facial sites cooled by convection are usually ranked from forehead (warmest) through malar, cheek, and chin, to nose (coldest). When cooled by still air, the sites tend to retain that same ranking, but there is more variation in ranking.", "contents": "Human facial temperatures in natural and laboratory cold. Asian, European, and American Indian men were subjected to craniofacial cooling to determine relative ranking and temperature curves for various facial skin sites. Moving and still air 0 degrees C to -35 degrees C in both laboratory and subarctic outdoor settings were used. The objective was to examine resistance to facial frostbite. Facial temperatures stabilize well above freezing even under quite cold conditions and this conclusion is congruent with low incidences of facial frostbite. Racial differences in face temperatures were clearly shown at only the malar eminence, and there was some evidence that exercise can be used to enhance facial circulation. These results and those of other studies reviewed demonstrate that facial sites cooled by convection are usually ranked from forehead (warmest) through malar, cheek, and chin, to nose (coldest). When cooled by still air, the sites tend to retain that same ranking, but there is more variation in ranking.", "PMID": 454321} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11136", "title": "Swimming accuracy and consistency of scuba divers under conditions of low visibility.", "content": "We had 55 blindfolded scuba divers repeatedly attempt to swim a straight line, make 90 degrees turns to the right and left, and make a 180 degrees turn. A given diver was reasonably consistent in the direction of his error from one trial to another and from one maneuver to another, although about half the divers tended to err to the right and half to the left. When attempted in a swimming pool, the median error over all maneuvers, irrespective of direction, was about 12 degrees. Further experiments showed that the direction of error was consistent, whether the divers were wearing scuba tanks or not, and whether they were swimming blindfolded in a swimming pool or sighted in a lake with water visibility limited to about 2 m. Direction of error did not correlate, however, with the preferred hand, with preferred foot for kicking a football, or with relative strength of the legs. Although hand- and foot-preference were highly correlated, foot-preference was not correlated with relative strength of legs.", "contents": "Swimming accuracy and consistency of scuba divers under conditions of low visibility. We had 55 blindfolded scuba divers repeatedly attempt to swim a straight line, make 90 degrees turns to the right and left, and make a 180 degrees turn. A given diver was reasonably consistent in the direction of his error from one trial to another and from one maneuver to another, although about half the divers tended to err to the right and half to the left. When attempted in a swimming pool, the median error over all maneuvers, irrespective of direction, was about 12 degrees. Further experiments showed that the direction of error was consistent, whether the divers were wearing scuba tanks or not, and whether they were swimming blindfolded in a swimming pool or sighted in a lake with water visibility limited to about 2 m. Direction of error did not correlate, however, with the preferred hand, with preferred foot for kicking a football, or with relative strength of the legs. Although hand- and foot-preference were highly correlated, foot-preference was not correlated with relative strength of legs.", "PMID": 454322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11137", "title": "Laser eye protection for flight personnel.", "content": "Developments in laser technology have resulted in an expanding use of lasers in many field and laboratory situations. The implications of the use of lasers in military applications have been examined for flight personnel, and the requirement for eye protection determined. Recommendations for methods of providing that protection are made.", "contents": "Laser eye protection for flight personnel. Developments in laser technology have resulted in an expanding use of lasers in many field and laboratory situations. The implications of the use of lasers in military applications have been examined for flight personnel, and the requirement for eye protection determined. Recommendations for methods of providing that protection are made.", "PMID": 454323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11138", "title": "Organ blood flow, cardiac output, arterial blood pressure, and vascular resistance in rats exposed to various oxygen pressures.", "content": "Blood flow in different organs, cardiac output, and arterial blood pressure were measured in unanesthetized rats under 1, 2, 3.5, 5, and 7 ATA O2, during first electrical discharge developed at 7 ATA O2 and following decompression. Brain, spinal cord, and hypophysis blood flow were reduced after 10 min of exposure to 2, 3.5, and 5 ATA O2 and were normal before and during first electrical discharge. Liver and muscle blood flow were significantly reduced under all investigated pressures, while myocardium, lung, kidney, and adrenal blood flow remained unchanged except for a significant increase in myocardium and lung blood flow under 1 ATA O2. Cardiac output was significantly decreased while arterial blood pressure was significantly decreased under all investigated pressures. The total peripheral resistance increased 36 to 81% at various oxygen pressures. These results are discussed in relation to the possible involvement of hemodynamic changes in awake animals, in the development of the adverse effects of HOP.", "contents": "Organ blood flow, cardiac output, arterial blood pressure, and vascular resistance in rats exposed to various oxygen pressures. Blood flow in different organs, cardiac output, and arterial blood pressure were measured in unanesthetized rats under 1, 2, 3.5, 5, and 7 ATA O2, during first electrical discharge developed at 7 ATA O2 and following decompression. Brain, spinal cord, and hypophysis blood flow were reduced after 10 min of exposure to 2, 3.5, and 5 ATA O2 and were normal before and during first electrical discharge. Liver and muscle blood flow were significantly reduced under all investigated pressures, while myocardium, lung, kidney, and adrenal blood flow remained unchanged except for a significant increase in myocardium and lung blood flow under 1 ATA O2. Cardiac output was significantly decreased while arterial blood pressure was significantly decreased under all investigated pressures. The total peripheral resistance increased 36 to 81% at various oxygen pressures. These results are discussed in relation to the possible involvement of hemodynamic changes in awake animals, in the development of the adverse effects of HOP.", "PMID": 454325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11139", "title": "Head acceleration and psychomotor performance.", "content": "Concussion resulting from head acceleration could explain the poor survival rates in some types of accidents. Experiments have been conducted on a decelerator using a tracking task to determine whether high head acceleration could affect psychomotor performance. Human subjects were exposed to impact acceleration of O (sham), 5, 10 and 12 -Gx facing forwards. Measurements were made of the linear and angular accelerations experienced at the head and a step tracking task was used to examine psychomotor performance. Electroencephalographs were also recorded. Both the linear and angular accelerations at the head were increased at the higher levels of impact acceleration. At -5Gx there were no significant differences in psychomotor performance when compared with controls, but at -10Gx, and especially -12Gx, significant differences were found. The EEG activity did not vary significantly and no concussive effects were observed in any subject. These results suggest that impairment of psychomotor performance severe enough to jeopardise survival could be produced by high accelerations of the head, though neither linear nor angular acceleration appear to have special significance.", "contents": "Head acceleration and psychomotor performance. Concussion resulting from head acceleration could explain the poor survival rates in some types of accidents. Experiments have been conducted on a decelerator using a tracking task to determine whether high head acceleration could affect psychomotor performance. Human subjects were exposed to impact acceleration of O (sham), 5, 10 and 12 -Gx facing forwards. Measurements were made of the linear and angular accelerations experienced at the head and a step tracking task was used to examine psychomotor performance. Electroencephalographs were also recorded. Both the linear and angular accelerations at the head were increased at the higher levels of impact acceleration. At -5Gx there were no significant differences in psychomotor performance when compared with controls, but at -10Gx, and especially -12Gx, significant differences were found. The EEG activity did not vary significantly and no concussive effects were observed in any subject. These results suggest that impairment of psychomotor performance severe enough to jeopardise survival could be produced by high accelerations of the head, though neither linear nor angular acceleration appear to have special significance.", "PMID": 454327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11140", "title": "Age trends in the cardiovascular dynamics of aircrewmen.", "content": "Age trends in the cardiovascular dynamics of 51 aircrewmen were investigated by means of noninvasive techniques. A statistically significant (p less than 0.01) decline in the ability of their hearts to accelerate blood was found to accompany advancing age. This trend was stronger than the rise in blood pressure found in the group, and known to occur in all aging populations. Assessment of cardiovascular aging in this way may provide new information necessary for the revision of the present mandatory retirement age for airline pilots.", "contents": "Age trends in the cardiovascular dynamics of aircrewmen. Age trends in the cardiovascular dynamics of 51 aircrewmen were investigated by means of noninvasive techniques. A statistically significant (p less than 0.01) decline in the ability of their hearts to accelerate blood was found to accompany advancing age. This trend was stronger than the rise in blood pressure found in the group, and known to occur in all aging populations. Assessment of cardiovascular aging in this way may provide new information necessary for the revision of the present mandatory retirement age for airline pilots.", "PMID": 454328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11141", "title": "Current role of alcohol as a factor in civil aircraft accidents.", "content": "Ethyl alcohol continues as a serious adverse factor in general aviation flight safety. According to FAA figures, the level of alcohol-associated general aviation fatal accidents has remained relatively static at a 16% general level since 1969. A recent survey of the attitudes of pilots toward alcohol and flying reveals a lack of appreciation among one-third of the pilots concerning the adverse effects of alcohol on safe flight. A renewed pilot education program on alcohol and flight safety appears indicated.", "contents": "Current role of alcohol as a factor in civil aircraft accidents. Ethyl alcohol continues as a serious adverse factor in general aviation flight safety. According to FAA figures, the level of alcohol-associated general aviation fatal accidents has remained relatively static at a 16% general level since 1969. A recent survey of the attitudes of pilots toward alcohol and flying reveals a lack of appreciation among one-third of the pilots concerning the adverse effects of alcohol on safe flight. A renewed pilot education program on alcohol and flight safety appears indicated.", "PMID": 454329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11142", "title": "Aeromedical aspects of otolaryngology.", "content": "Abnormalities in the ENT area that are directly related to aerospace operations are largely secondary to man's persistence in operating outside his intended environment. These are spatial disorientation, motion sickness, barotrauma, noise-induced hearing loss, and certain clinical entities which have the capability of producing sudden incapacitation. Pertinent features of these primary problem areas are discussed.", "contents": "Aeromedical aspects of otolaryngology. Abnormalities in the ENT area that are directly related to aerospace operations are largely secondary to man's persistence in operating outside his intended environment. These are spatial disorientation, motion sickness, barotrauma, noise-induced hearing loss, and certain clinical entities which have the capability of producing sudden incapacitation. Pertinent features of these primary problem areas are discussed.", "PMID": 454330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11143", "title": "Establishing an audit system for Air Evac.", "content": "Because of JCAH requirements and nursing's progression toward self-evaluation, most fixed facilities have established audit systems to determine the effectiveness of nursing intervention. Due to the transient nature of the Aeromedical Evacuation System, there was no method of evaluating the patient's care inflight. Many obstacles had to be overcome in establishing a method of evaluation; and these problems are discussed by the researchers. A pilot project was formulated to determine the validity of our audit tool. Then, 99 patients' charts were audited over a four-month period. From this data, many deficiencies in the continuity of patient care and the patient's lack of understanding concerning our system became evident. The implications of this study are far reaching and will lead to further research in the future. By disseminating these results to various hospitals, we hope to see significant improvement in patient preparation in the near future.", "contents": "Establishing an audit system for Air Evac. Because of JCAH requirements and nursing's progression toward self-evaluation, most fixed facilities have established audit systems to determine the effectiveness of nursing intervention. Due to the transient nature of the Aeromedical Evacuation System, there was no method of evaluating the patient's care inflight. Many obstacles had to be overcome in establishing a method of evaluation; and these problems are discussed by the researchers. A pilot project was formulated to determine the validity of our audit tool. Then, 99 patients' charts were audited over a four-month period. From this data, many deficiencies in the continuity of patient care and the patient's lack of understanding concerning our system became evident. The implications of this study are far reaching and will lead to further research in the future. By disseminating these results to various hospitals, we hope to see significant improvement in patient preparation in the near future.", "PMID": 454331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11144", "title": "Induction/catastrophe theory: a behavioral ecological approach to cognition in human individuals.", "content": "Gibson's (1966) ecological formulation of perceptual processes as abstracted systems, the tenets and units of neobehaviorism as formulated within psychobiology and the experimental analysis of behavior, and the topological approaches of mathematical biology as formulated by Rashevsky (1951, 1960) and Thom (1975) are the elemental concepts that form the basis of the theory presented in this paper. A cognitive or decision process of individual human beings--living systems at the organism level--emerges as a one-step, match-contrast, serial pattern embedded as a triplet of Gibson frames in five-dimensional butterfly catastrophe. Some of the experimental, clinical and philosophical implications of a \"catastrophic\" formulation of induction are discussed.", "contents": "Induction/catastrophe theory: a behavioral ecological approach to cognition in human individuals. Gibson's (1966) ecological formulation of perceptual processes as abstracted systems, the tenets and units of neobehaviorism as formulated within psychobiology and the experimental analysis of behavior, and the topological approaches of mathematical biology as formulated by Rashevsky (1951, 1960) and Thom (1975) are the elemental concepts that form the basis of the theory presented in this paper. A cognitive or decision process of individual human beings--living systems at the organism level--emerges as a one-step, match-contrast, serial pattern embedded as a triplet of Gibson frames in five-dimensional butterfly catastrophe. Some of the experimental, clinical and philosophical implications of a \"catastrophic\" formulation of induction are discussed.", "PMID": 454342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11145", "title": "Allozyme genotype--environment relationships in natural populations of Drosophila buzzatii.", "content": "Allozyme frequency data from natural populations of Drosophila buzzatii were analyzed for genotype--environment relationships. Allele frequency and heterozygosity at six loci polymorphic throughout eastern Australia and a number of environmental factors (both means and variabilities) were examined by a variety of multivariate techniques. Significant genotype--environment associations were found for five of the six loci, and after correcting for geographic location significant associations remained for Est-2 and Adh-1 gene frequencies and heterozygosities and for Pgm gene frequencies. The results are discussed in relation to selection and gene flow and provide the basis for laboratory studies to disentangle confounded effects of (1) environmental means and environmental variabilities and (2) allele frequency and heterozygosity, and thus to further test for and determine the nature of any natural selection at particular allozyme loci.", "contents": "Allozyme genotype--environment relationships in natural populations of Drosophila buzzatii. Allozyme frequency data from natural populations of Drosophila buzzatii were analyzed for genotype--environment relationships. Allele frequency and heterozygosity at six loci polymorphic throughout eastern Australia and a number of environmental factors (both means and variabilities) were examined by a variety of multivariate techniques. Significant genotype--environment associations were found for five of the six loci, and after correcting for geographic location significant associations remained for Est-2 and Adh-1 gene frequencies and heterozygosities and for Pgm gene frequencies. The results are discussed in relation to selection and gene flow and provide the basis for laboratory studies to disentangle confounded effects of (1) environmental means and environmental variabilities and (2) allele frequency and heterozygosity, and thus to further test for and determine the nature of any natural selection at particular allozyme loci.", "PMID": 454353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11146", "title": "Comparative sensitivities of electrophoretic assays for human enzymes.", "content": "The sensitivities of 26 starch gel electrophoretic enzyme assays have been compared using HeLa human cells and A9 mouse cells grown in vitro.", "contents": "Comparative sensitivities of electrophoretic assays for human enzymes. The sensitivities of 26 starch gel electrophoretic enzyme assays have been compared using HeLa human cells and A9 mouse cells grown in vitro.", "PMID": 454354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11147", "title": "Characterization of hybrids between bovine (MDBK) and mouse (L-cell) cell lines.", "content": "Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT)-deficient mutants of a bovine kidney cell line (MDBK) were selected following mutagenesis with ethylmethane sulfonate or ICR-170G. MDBK mutants were hybridized to thymidine kinase-deficient L cells and selected in HAT medium. Parental and hybrid cells were characterized for isozyme patterns of lactic dehydrogenase malate dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and glutamate oxalate transaminase. Chromosomes of MDBK can be distinguished from mouse L cells by configuration and by fluorescent staining with Hoechst 33-258 stain. Hybrid cells contained both MDBK and L-cell chromosomes and had elevated DNA content. MDBK cells are normally restrictive for mengovirus replication. Both permissive and restrictive hybrids were found. Our data indicate that there was preferential loss of MDBK chromosomes in the hybrid cell lines.", "contents": "Characterization of hybrids between bovine (MDBK) and mouse (L-cell) cell lines. Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT)-deficient mutants of a bovine kidney cell line (MDBK) were selected following mutagenesis with ethylmethane sulfonate or ICR-170G. MDBK mutants were hybridized to thymidine kinase-deficient L cells and selected in HAT medium. Parental and hybrid cells were characterized for isozyme patterns of lactic dehydrogenase malate dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and glutamate oxalate transaminase. Chromosomes of MDBK can be distinguished from mouse L cells by configuration and by fluorescent staining with Hoechst 33-258 stain. Hybrid cells contained both MDBK and L-cell chromosomes and had elevated DNA content. MDBK cells are normally restrictive for mengovirus replication. Both permissive and restrictive hybrids were found. Our data indicate that there was preferential loss of MDBK chromosomes in the hybrid cell lines.", "PMID": 454355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11148", "title": "Linkage of the locus for conversion of albumin (Acf-1) in the house mouse, Mus musculus.", "content": "The linkage of the locus for conversion of albumin (Acf-1) has been established on chromosome 1 with the following gene order and recombination percentages: Id-1 19.3 +/- 5.2% Acf-1 4.2 +/- 1.7% Dip-1 18.4 +/- 4.2% Lp.", "contents": "Linkage of the locus for conversion of albumin (Acf-1) in the house mouse, Mus musculus. The linkage of the locus for conversion of albumin (Acf-1) has been established on chromosome 1 with the following gene order and recombination percentages: Id-1 19.3 +/- 5.2% Acf-1 4.2 +/- 1.7% Dip-1 18.4 +/- 4.2% Lp.", "PMID": 454356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11149", "title": "Electrophoretic comparisons of liver chromatin proteins isolated from heterotic rats during postweaning development.", "content": "Electrophoretic comparisons of histones and other acid-extractable chromatin proteins isolated from the livers of growing F344 inbred rats and a heterotic paternal hybrid derived by crossing F344 males with Holtzman females reveal significant heterogeneity among a class of nonhistone components soluble in acid. These variations appear to be age and line specific and show more variation in the inbred than the hybrid. Comparisons of the acid-insoluble nonhistone proteins by sodium dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis reveal significant quantitative changes in a 28,600 dalton polypeptide present in large quantities at 30, 35, and 50 days of age in the hybrid and at 40 and 45 days only in the inbred. Other minor variations were noted in a class of proteins of 40,000--45,000 molecular weight and in those of very high molecular weight (100,000-200,000). Such variations could be a reflection of or prelude to changes in genetic activity and could ultimately be important in the control of growth patterns of developing heterotic animals.", "contents": "Electrophoretic comparisons of liver chromatin proteins isolated from heterotic rats during postweaning development. Electrophoretic comparisons of histones and other acid-extractable chromatin proteins isolated from the livers of growing F344 inbred rats and a heterotic paternal hybrid derived by crossing F344 males with Holtzman females reveal significant heterogeneity among a class of nonhistone components soluble in acid. These variations appear to be age and line specific and show more variation in the inbred than the hybrid. Comparisons of the acid-insoluble nonhistone proteins by sodium dodecylsulfate gel electrophoresis reveal significant quantitative changes in a 28,600 dalton polypeptide present in large quantities at 30, 35, and 50 days of age in the hybrid and at 40 and 45 days only in the inbred. Other minor variations were noted in a class of proteins of 40,000--45,000 molecular weight and in those of very high molecular weight (100,000-200,000). Such variations could be a reflection of or prelude to changes in genetic activity and could ultimately be important in the control of growth patterns of developing heterotic animals.", "PMID": 454357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11150", "title": "Assignment of the gene governing cellular ouabain resistance to Mus musculus chromosome 3 using human/mouse microcell hybrids.", "content": "Human/mouse microcell hybrids were used to establish the assignment of the gene governing resistance to the cardiac glycoside ouabain (Oua-1) to Mus musculus chromosome 3. Microcells were prepared from primary mouse embryo fibroblasts and fused with HeLa S3 cells, and microcell hybrids were isolated and maintained in medium containing 10(-6) M ouabain. Resistance to ouabain was not expressed concordantly with any of 26 murine isozyme markers. Karyotypic analysis of five primary clones showed that one to five murine chromosomes had been transferred from donor to recipient in these experiments. Only mouse chromosome 3 was common to all ouabain-resistant primary clones. Both ouabain-resistant and -sensitive subclones were isolated from hybrids grown in the absence of selective pressure, and karyotyping showed that loss of resistance to ouabain was concordant with the loss of murine chromosome 3.", "contents": "Assignment of the gene governing cellular ouabain resistance to Mus musculus chromosome 3 using human/mouse microcell hybrids. Human/mouse microcell hybrids were used to establish the assignment of the gene governing resistance to the cardiac glycoside ouabain (Oua-1) to Mus musculus chromosome 3. Microcells were prepared from primary mouse embryo fibroblasts and fused with HeLa S3 cells, and microcell hybrids were isolated and maintained in medium containing 10(-6) M ouabain. Resistance to ouabain was not expressed concordantly with any of 26 murine isozyme markers. Karyotypic analysis of five primary clones showed that one to five murine chromosomes had been transferred from donor to recipient in these experiments. Only mouse chromosome 3 was common to all ouabain-resistant primary clones. Both ouabain-resistant and -sensitive subclones were isolated from hybrids grown in the absence of selective pressure, and karyotyping showed that loss of resistance to ouabain was concordant with the loss of murine chromosome 3.", "PMID": 454358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11151", "title": "Alcohol dehydrogenase activity in diploid and autotetraploid Phlox.", "content": "The effect of polyploidy on the activity of alcohol dehydrogenase was examined in a series of diploid and synthetic autotetraploid Phlox drummondii. In most cases autotetraploids had about twice as much activity as the corresponding diploids, in two cases autotetraploids had about 1.5 times more activity, and in one wild seed pair the activity of the tetraploid was somewhat lower.", "contents": "Alcohol dehydrogenase activity in diploid and autotetraploid Phlox. The effect of polyploidy on the activity of alcohol dehydrogenase was examined in a series of diploid and synthetic autotetraploid Phlox drummondii. In most cases autotetraploids had about twice as much activity as the corresponding diploids, in two cases autotetraploids had about 1.5 times more activity, and in one wild seed pair the activity of the tetraploid was somewhat lower.", "PMID": 454359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11152", "title": "Genetic variability for regional brain gangliosides in five strains of young mice.", "content": "The quantitative and qualitative distributions of gangliosides were determined in the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem of five inbred strains (C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, LG/J, C3H/HeJ, BALB/cJ) of mice at 21 days of age. Genetic differences were found among the strains for wet weight, absolute amount of gangliosides per region, and concentration of ganglioside (expressed on bolth a wet and a dry weight basis) in all three regions of the brain. The water content of the various brain regions showed the least amount of genetic variability. Coefficients of genetic determination were used to estimate the magnitude of genetic influence on these traits in each brain region. Significant differences were also found among the five strains for the distribution of certain gangliosides. The DBA strain, which is susceptible to audiogenic seizure at this age, had the highest level of the myelin-enriched ganglioside GM1 in all brain regions. Most of the genetic variation that influences the content and distribution of gangliosides among neurologically normal mice can be considered polygenic. Several possible sources of this genetic variation that may contribute to the differences observed among the strains are discussed.", "contents": "Genetic variability for regional brain gangliosides in five strains of young mice. The quantitative and qualitative distributions of gangliosides were determined in the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem of five inbred strains (C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, LG/J, C3H/HeJ, BALB/cJ) of mice at 21 days of age. Genetic differences were found among the strains for wet weight, absolute amount of gangliosides per region, and concentration of ganglioside (expressed on bolth a wet and a dry weight basis) in all three regions of the brain. The water content of the various brain regions showed the least amount of genetic variability. Coefficients of genetic determination were used to estimate the magnitude of genetic influence on these traits in each brain region. Significant differences were also found among the five strains for the distribution of certain gangliosides. The DBA strain, which is susceptible to audiogenic seizure at this age, had the highest level of the myelin-enriched ganglioside GM1 in all brain regions. Most of the genetic variation that influences the content and distribution of gangliosides among neurologically normal mice can be considered polygenic. Several possible sources of this genetic variation that may contribute to the differences observed among the strains are discussed.", "PMID": 454360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11153", "title": "No strict coupling of vitamin K1 (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinone)-dependent carboxylation and vitamin K1 epoxidation in detergent-solubilized microsomal fractions from rat liver.", "content": "NAD(P)H dehydrogenase ('DT-diaphorase', EC 1.6.99.2) and vitamin K epoxidase were removed by affinity chromatography from detergent-solubilized microsomal fractions. Thereby the microsomal fractions normally carrying out vitamin K1-dependent carboxylation of the microsomal precursor proteins of the prothrombin complex were inactivated. Purified NAD(P)H dehydrogenase added to this system restored carboxylation in the presence of vitamin K1 (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinone) plus NADH. Vitamin K1 hydroquinone (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinol) had no effect, in contrast with its effect in the intact system, where it can substitute for vitamin K1 plus NADH. The ability of NAD(P)H dehydrogenase to restore carboxylation in a system without vitamin K epoxidase activity shows that there is no obligatory coupling of the vitamin K1-dependent carboxylation with vitamin K1 epoxidation. These results suggest that the form of vitamin K1 that is active in the carboxylation reaction can be produced independently in two reactions: by NAD(P)H dehydrogenase in the reduction of the quinone and by vitamin K epoxidase in the epoxidation of the hydroquinone.", "contents": "No strict coupling of vitamin K1 (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinone)-dependent carboxylation and vitamin K1 epoxidation in detergent-solubilized microsomal fractions from rat liver. NAD(P)H dehydrogenase ('DT-diaphorase', EC 1.6.99.2) and vitamin K epoxidase were removed by affinity chromatography from detergent-solubilized microsomal fractions. Thereby the microsomal fractions normally carrying out vitamin K1-dependent carboxylation of the microsomal precursor proteins of the prothrombin complex were inactivated. Purified NAD(P)H dehydrogenase added to this system restored carboxylation in the presence of vitamin K1 (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinone) plus NADH. Vitamin K1 hydroquinone (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinol) had no effect, in contrast with its effect in the intact system, where it can substitute for vitamin K1 plus NADH. The ability of NAD(P)H dehydrogenase to restore carboxylation in a system without vitamin K epoxidase activity shows that there is no obligatory coupling of the vitamin K1-dependent carboxylation with vitamin K1 epoxidation. These results suggest that the form of vitamin K1 that is active in the carboxylation reaction can be produced independently in two reactions: by NAD(P)H dehydrogenase in the reduction of the quinone and by vitamin K epoxidase in the epoxidation of the hydroquinone.", "PMID": 454361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11154", "title": "Formation of cobalt protoporphyrin in the liver of rats. A mechanism for the inhibition of liver haem biosynthesis by inorganic cobalt.", "content": "1. Treatment of rats with small doses of CoCl2 decreases liver 5-aminolaevulinate synthase (EC 2.3.1.37) activity and impairs incorporation of 5-amino[14C]laevulinate into liver haem. Salts of other metals (cadmium, nickel, manganese and zinc) are all relatively inactive. 2. The dose-response curves obtained for both these effects closely mirror the accumulation in the liver of a compound that is labelled by 5-amino[14C]laevulinate and is unextractable by acetone/HCl. 3. Incorporation of 5-amino[14C]laevulinate into unextractable compound is also obtained in vitro by incubating liver homogenates with label in the presence of cobalt:isotope-dilution experiments show that the radioactivity passes through pools of porphobilinogen and protoporphyrin, but not of haem. 4. The unextractable compound is not covalently bound to protein and possesses the same extraction and spectral properties as authentic cobalt protoporphyrin. 5. It is concluded (a) that cobalt protoporphyrin is readily formed not only in vitro, but also in vivo, and (b) that its formation accounts for the impaired incorporation of 5-aminolaevulinate into haem and may also be responsible for the action of cobalt on 5-aminolaevulinate synthase.", "contents": "Formation of cobalt protoporphyrin in the liver of rats. A mechanism for the inhibition of liver haem biosynthesis by inorganic cobalt. 1. Treatment of rats with small doses of CoCl2 decreases liver 5-aminolaevulinate synthase (EC 2.3.1.37) activity and impairs incorporation of 5-amino[14C]laevulinate into liver haem. Salts of other metals (cadmium, nickel, manganese and zinc) are all relatively inactive. 2. The dose-response curves obtained for both these effects closely mirror the accumulation in the liver of a compound that is labelled by 5-amino[14C]laevulinate and is unextractable by acetone/HCl. 3. Incorporation of 5-amino[14C]laevulinate into unextractable compound is also obtained in vitro by incubating liver homogenates with label in the presence of cobalt:isotope-dilution experiments show that the radioactivity passes through pools of porphobilinogen and protoporphyrin, but not of haem. 4. The unextractable compound is not covalently bound to protein and possesses the same extraction and spectral properties as authentic cobalt protoporphyrin. 5. It is concluded (a) that cobalt protoporphyrin is readily formed not only in vitro, but also in vivo, and (b) that its formation accounts for the impaired incorporation of 5-aminolaevulinate into haem and may also be responsible for the action of cobalt on 5-aminolaevulinate synthase.", "PMID": 454362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11155", "title": "The location of acid invertase activity and sucrose in the vacuoles of storage roots of beetroot (Beta vulgaris).", "content": "Vacuoles were isolated from freshly cut slices of the storage roots of beetroot (Beta vulgaris), and from slices that had been washed in aerated water for 1-3 days. The unique vacuolar location of betanin permitted the use of a correlative method to determine whether sucrose and acid invertase were located in the vacuoles. The specific content (the activity of the enzyme or amount of substrate per mg of protein) and the percentage recoveries for betanin, sucrose and acid invertase were determined for the different fractions obtained during the isolation of the vacuoles. For each fraction the specific content of betanin was plotted against those of sucrose and acid invertase. Similar correlative plots were drawn for the percentage recoveries. For both specific contents and percentage recoveries for correlation coefficients for sucrose and for acid invertase versus betanin were close to unity, and the lines passed near the origins. It is concluded that, in beetroot, most of the sucrose and much of the acid invertase are in the vacuoles. Measurements of vacuolar sucrose and acid invertase in beetroot slices washed for 1-3 days demonstrated an inverse relationship between sucrose content and acid invertase activity.", "contents": "The location of acid invertase activity and sucrose in the vacuoles of storage roots of beetroot (Beta vulgaris). Vacuoles were isolated from freshly cut slices of the storage roots of beetroot (Beta vulgaris), and from slices that had been washed in aerated water for 1-3 days. The unique vacuolar location of betanin permitted the use of a correlative method to determine whether sucrose and acid invertase were located in the vacuoles. The specific content (the activity of the enzyme or amount of substrate per mg of protein) and the percentage recoveries for betanin, sucrose and acid invertase were determined for the different fractions obtained during the isolation of the vacuoles. For each fraction the specific content of betanin was plotted against those of sucrose and acid invertase. Similar correlative plots were drawn for the percentage recoveries. For both specific contents and percentage recoveries for correlation coefficients for sucrose and for acid invertase versus betanin were close to unity, and the lines passed near the origins. It is concluded that, in beetroot, most of the sucrose and much of the acid invertase are in the vacuoles. Measurements of vacuolar sucrose and acid invertase in beetroot slices washed for 1-3 days demonstrated an inverse relationship between sucrose content and acid invertase activity.", "PMID": 454363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11156", "title": "Calcium ion transport across plasma membranes isolated from rat kidney cortex.", "content": "Basal-lateral-plasma-membrane vesicles and brush-border-membrane vesicles were isolated from rat kidney cortex by differential centrifugation followed by free-flow-electrophoresis. Ca2+ uptake into these vesicles was investigated by a rapid filtration method. Both membranes show a considerable binding of Ca2+ to the vesicle interior, making the analysis of passive fluxes in uptake experiments difficult. Only the basal-lateral-plasma-membrane vesicles exhibit an ATP-dependent pump activity which can be distinguished from the activity in mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum by virtue of the different distribution during free-flow electrophoresis and its lack of sensitivity to oligomycin. The basal-lateral plasma membranes contain in addition a Na+/Ca2+-exchange system which mediates a probably rheogenic counter-transport of Ca2+ and Na+ across the basal cell border. The latter system is probably involved in the secondary active Na+-dependent and ouabain-inhibitable Ca2+ reabsorption in the proximal tubule, the ATP-driven system is probably more important for the maintenance of a low concentration of intracellular Ca2+.", "contents": "Calcium ion transport across plasma membranes isolated from rat kidney cortex. Basal-lateral-plasma-membrane vesicles and brush-border-membrane vesicles were isolated from rat kidney cortex by differential centrifugation followed by free-flow-electrophoresis. Ca2+ uptake into these vesicles was investigated by a rapid filtration method. Both membranes show a considerable binding of Ca2+ to the vesicle interior, making the analysis of passive fluxes in uptake experiments difficult. Only the basal-lateral-plasma-membrane vesicles exhibit an ATP-dependent pump activity which can be distinguished from the activity in mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum by virtue of the different distribution during free-flow electrophoresis and its lack of sensitivity to oligomycin. The basal-lateral plasma membranes contain in addition a Na+/Ca2+-exchange system which mediates a probably rheogenic counter-transport of Ca2+ and Na+ across the basal cell border. The latter system is probably involved in the secondary active Na+-dependent and ouabain-inhibitable Ca2+ reabsorption in the proximal tubule, the ATP-driven system is probably more important for the maintenance of a low concentration of intracellular Ca2+.", "PMID": 454364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11157", "title": "Enhancement of rat brain tryptophan metabolism by chronic ethanol administration and possible involvement of decreased liver tryptophan pyrrolase activity.", "content": "1. Chronic ethanol administration enhances rat brain 5-hydroxytryptamine synthesis by increasing the availability of circulating tryptophan to the brain. This increased availability is not insulin-mediated or lipolysis-dependent. 2. Under these conditions, tryptophan accumulates in the liver and apo-(tryptophan pyrrolase) activity is completely abolished, but could be restored by administration of regenerators of liver NAD+ and/or NADP+. 3. All four regenerators used (fructose, Methylene Blue, phenazine methosulphate and sodium pyruvate) prevented the ethanol-induced increase in liver tryptophan concentration and the increased availability of tryptophan to the brain. 4. It is suggested that the enhancement of brain tryptophan metabolism by chronic ethanol administration is caused by the decreased hepatic tryptophan pyrrolase activity. The results are briefly discussed in relation to previous work with ethanol. 5. Fructose enhances the conversion of tryptophan into 5-hydroxyindol-3-ylacetic acid in brains of ethanol-treated rats, whereas Methylene Blue inhibits this conversion in both control and ethanol-treated animals.", "contents": "Enhancement of rat brain tryptophan metabolism by chronic ethanol administration and possible involvement of decreased liver tryptophan pyrrolase activity. 1. Chronic ethanol administration enhances rat brain 5-hydroxytryptamine synthesis by increasing the availability of circulating tryptophan to the brain. This increased availability is not insulin-mediated or lipolysis-dependent. 2. Under these conditions, tryptophan accumulates in the liver and apo-(tryptophan pyrrolase) activity is completely abolished, but could be restored by administration of regenerators of liver NAD+ and/or NADP+. 3. All four regenerators used (fructose, Methylene Blue, phenazine methosulphate and sodium pyruvate) prevented the ethanol-induced increase in liver tryptophan concentration and the increased availability of tryptophan to the brain. 4. It is suggested that the enhancement of brain tryptophan metabolism by chronic ethanol administration is caused by the decreased hepatic tryptophan pyrrolase activity. The results are briefly discussed in relation to previous work with ethanol. 5. Fructose enhances the conversion of tryptophan into 5-hydroxyindol-3-ylacetic acid in brains of ethanol-treated rats, whereas Methylene Blue inhibits this conversion in both control and ethanol-treated animals.", "PMID": 454365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11158", "title": "Oestrogen receptor of calf mammary gland. Purification by use of sodium bromide and heparin-sepharose.", "content": "1. Calf mammary-gland cytosol apparently has a single oestrogen receptor capable of auto- and/or hetero-association of varying complexity. Computation of the dissociation constant for oestradiol-17beta gives Kd = 0.5 nM. The number of binding sites is 40 fmol/mg of cytosol protein. The oestrogen receptor in the presence of NaBr, a chaotropic salt that inhibits the interaction of receptor with other cytosol components, sediments through sucrose density gradients as a single sharp peak at 4S, and it has a Stokes radius of 3.4 nm measured by gel filtration. 2. A large-scale purification procedure of the calf mammary-gland oestrogen receptor based on the inhibition of receptor aggregation by NaBr and interaction with heparin-Sepharose is reported. The receptor is purified more than 1500-fold over that in the 27,000g supernatant of the homogenate, with a 30% yield. In 'low-salt' buffer the purified receptor sediments through sucrose gradients at 4S and the Stokes radius, measured by gel filtration in the presence of heparin, is 3.4 nm. The mol.wt computed from these values is about 60,000, and the frictional ratio is 1.3.", "contents": "Oestrogen receptor of calf mammary gland. Purification by use of sodium bromide and heparin-sepharose. 1. Calf mammary-gland cytosol apparently has a single oestrogen receptor capable of auto- and/or hetero-association of varying complexity. Computation of the dissociation constant for oestradiol-17beta gives Kd = 0.5 nM. The number of binding sites is 40 fmol/mg of cytosol protein. The oestrogen receptor in the presence of NaBr, a chaotropic salt that inhibits the interaction of receptor with other cytosol components, sediments through sucrose density gradients as a single sharp peak at 4S, and it has a Stokes radius of 3.4 nm measured by gel filtration. 2. A large-scale purification procedure of the calf mammary-gland oestrogen receptor based on the inhibition of receptor aggregation by NaBr and interaction with heparin-Sepharose is reported. The receptor is purified more than 1500-fold over that in the 27,000g supernatant of the homogenate, with a 30% yield. In 'low-salt' buffer the purified receptor sediments through sucrose gradients at 4S and the Stokes radius, measured by gel filtration in the presence of heparin, is 3.4 nm. The mol.wt computed from these values is about 60,000, and the frictional ratio is 1.3.", "PMID": 454366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11159", "title": "Isolation and metabolic characteristics of rat and chicken enterocytes.", "content": "1. The recent recognition of the metabolic, as opposed to absorptive, functions of the small intestine prompted efforts the improve the preparation of metabolically competent columnar absorptive cells ('enterocytes') and to study their metabolic properties. 2. With this preparation, linear rates of O2 consumption are obtained for 40 min at 37 degrees C that are more than 50% higher than rates reported by other authors. 3. Among added substrates, glucose, glutamine and glutamate are the preferred fuels of respiration. The main nitrogenous products of glutamine metabolism are NH3, alanine and glutamate. Glutamine carbon was not detectable in citrulline or proline, in contrast with the findings of Windmueller & Spaeth [(1974) J. Biol. Chem. 249, 5070-5079] in the vascularly perfused small intestine. 4. The rates of O2 uptake in the presence of glutamine or glutamate are sufficient to account for the formation of the carbon skeleton of alanine from the amino acid substrate, i.e. the ratio of O2 used/alanine formed is greater than 1.5. 5. Added ADP and ATP are rapidly degraded to AMP and IMP to a large extent by release of hydrolytic enzymes from the enterocytes into the medium. 6. Chicken enterocytes isolated by the same method are more stable; linear rates of O2 uptake are maintained for 60-70 min.", "contents": "Isolation and metabolic characteristics of rat and chicken enterocytes. 1. The recent recognition of the metabolic, as opposed to absorptive, functions of the small intestine prompted efforts the improve the preparation of metabolically competent columnar absorptive cells ('enterocytes') and to study their metabolic properties. 2. With this preparation, linear rates of O2 consumption are obtained for 40 min at 37 degrees C that are more than 50% higher than rates reported by other authors. 3. Among added substrates, glucose, glutamine and glutamate are the preferred fuels of respiration. The main nitrogenous products of glutamine metabolism are NH3, alanine and glutamate. Glutamine carbon was not detectable in citrulline or proline, in contrast with the findings of Windmueller & Spaeth [(1974) J. Biol. Chem. 249, 5070-5079] in the vascularly perfused small intestine. 4. The rates of O2 uptake in the presence of glutamine or glutamate are sufficient to account for the formation of the carbon skeleton of alanine from the amino acid substrate, i.e. the ratio of O2 used/alanine formed is greater than 1.5. 5. Added ADP and ATP are rapidly degraded to AMP and IMP to a large extent by release of hydrolytic enzymes from the enterocytes into the medium. 6. Chicken enterocytes isolated by the same method are more stable; linear rates of O2 uptake are maintained for 60-70 min.", "PMID": 454367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11160", "title": "Changes in Harderian gland activity in the female golden hamster during the oestrous cycle, pregnancy and lactation.", "content": "The Harderian gland, which is situated within the bony orbit, is usually thought of as a source of lubrication for the eye. However, recent studies have suggested links with reproductive function. In the male golden hamster, both gland histology and activity are known to be under hormonal influence, and the present experiment was undertaken to examine gland weight and activity (as measured by the production of porphyrins) over the oestrous cycle and during pregnancy and early lactation in the female hamster. Gland weight, the number of solid intraluminal porphyrin accretions, and concentrations of copro- and proto-porphyrin were all maximal on day 1 of the cycle (oestrous) and at their lowest on day 2 (or jointly on days 2 and 3), rising gradually thereafter. Porphyrin concentrations are considerably higher during pregnancy and early lactation than during the cycle, and the solid porphyrin accretions, although diminished in number, are larger. Although there is no indication of either the function or the physiological basis of these changes during the cycle or pregnancy, these findings do suggest that in the female golden hamster, as in the male, there is a link between Harderian gland activity and reproductive function.", "contents": "Changes in Harderian gland activity in the female golden hamster during the oestrous cycle, pregnancy and lactation. The Harderian gland, which is situated within the bony orbit, is usually thought of as a source of lubrication for the eye. However, recent studies have suggested links with reproductive function. In the male golden hamster, both gland histology and activity are known to be under hormonal influence, and the present experiment was undertaken to examine gland weight and activity (as measured by the production of porphyrins) over the oestrous cycle and during pregnancy and early lactation in the female hamster. Gland weight, the number of solid intraluminal porphyrin accretions, and concentrations of copro- and proto-porphyrin were all maximal on day 1 of the cycle (oestrous) and at their lowest on day 2 (or jointly on days 2 and 3), rising gradually thereafter. Porphyrin concentrations are considerably higher during pregnancy and early lactation than during the cycle, and the solid porphyrin accretions, although diminished in number, are larger. Although there is no indication of either the function or the physiological basis of these changes during the cycle or pregnancy, these findings do suggest that in the female golden hamster, as in the male, there is a link between Harderian gland activity and reproductive function.", "PMID": 454368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11161", "title": "The effect of oxygen partial pressure on protein synthesis and collagen hydroxylation by mature periodontal tissues maintained in organ cultures.", "content": "Mature periodontal tissues from adult-mouse first mandibular molars were cultured in a continuous-flow organ-culture system which allowed the regulation of both ascorbic acid concentration and pO(2) (oxygen partial pressure). Protein synthesis was measured by analysing the incorporation of [(3)H]proline into collagenous and non-collagenous proteins during the last 24h of a 2-day culture. At low pO(2) [16.0kPa (approx. 120mmHg)] approx. 60% of protein-incorporated [(3)H]proline was found in collagenous proteins. However, it was evident that this collagen was considerably underhydroxylated. At high pO(2) [56.0kPa (approx. 420mmHg)], both the amount of collagen deposited in the tissues and the degree of hydroxylation were increased considerably. In contrast, no significant effect on non-collagenous protein was observed. Tissues cultured at low pO(2) for the first 48h were unable to respond to a subsequent increase in pO(2) during the last 24h. Analysis of pepsin-solubilized collagen alpha-chains labelled with [(14)C]glycine demonstrated the synthesis of both type-I and type-III collagens by explants cultured for 48h at high pO(2). Type-III collagen comprised 20-30% of the radioactivity in alpha-chains in both the periodontal ligament and the tissues of the alveolar process. The pattern of protein synthesis in the alveolar tissues at high pO(2) was similar to that observed in these tissues in vivo. However, in the cultured periodontal ligament the proportions of non-collagenous proteins and type-III collagens were increased in comparison with the tissue in vivo.", "contents": "The effect of oxygen partial pressure on protein synthesis and collagen hydroxylation by mature periodontal tissues maintained in organ cultures. Mature periodontal tissues from adult-mouse first mandibular molars were cultured in a continuous-flow organ-culture system which allowed the regulation of both ascorbic acid concentration and pO(2) (oxygen partial pressure). Protein synthesis was measured by analysing the incorporation of [(3)H]proline into collagenous and non-collagenous proteins during the last 24h of a 2-day culture. At low pO(2) [16.0kPa (approx. 120mmHg)] approx. 60% of protein-incorporated [(3)H]proline was found in collagenous proteins. However, it was evident that this collagen was considerably underhydroxylated. At high pO(2) [56.0kPa (approx. 420mmHg)], both the amount of collagen deposited in the tissues and the degree of hydroxylation were increased considerably. In contrast, no significant effect on non-collagenous protein was observed. Tissues cultured at low pO(2) for the first 48h were unable to respond to a subsequent increase in pO(2) during the last 24h. Analysis of pepsin-solubilized collagen alpha-chains labelled with [(14)C]glycine demonstrated the synthesis of both type-I and type-III collagens by explants cultured for 48h at high pO(2). Type-III collagen comprised 20-30% of the radioactivity in alpha-chains in both the periodontal ligament and the tissues of the alveolar process. The pattern of protein synthesis in the alveolar tissues at high pO(2) was similar to that observed in these tissues in vivo. However, in the cultured periodontal ligament the proportions of non-collagenous proteins and type-III collagens were increased in comparison with the tissue in vivo.", "PMID": 454369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11162", "title": "Deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in isolated nuclei from baby-hamster kidney cells (BHK-21/C13). Characterization of the system.", "content": "A comparative study of some commonly employed laboratory procedures for studying DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei was carried out. Nuclei isolated from baby-hamster kidney (BHK-21/C13) cells synthesize DNA for 30-60min at 37 degrees C in a reaction requiring uni- and bi-valent cations, ATP and all four deoxyribonucleoside 5'-triphosphates. The addition of either ribonucleotides or cytosol from S-phase cells had no effect, but DNA synthesis was stimulated by some dextrans (mol.wt. 5x10(6)). The extent of synthesis was influenced by apparently minor variations in experimental conditions. For example, DNA synthesis by nuclei in Tris/HCl, pH7.5, was only 50% of that observed in Hepes/NaOH, pH7.5; the presence of detergents Triton X-100, Triton N-101, Nonidet P-40, Brij 58 and Tween 80 in the incubation medium altered the amount of synthesis to different extents. Although most detergents inhibited synthesis, a stimulation occurred with Tween 80 (150% of controls). These effects were reversed on washing the nuclei, except that of Brij 58, which inhibited DNA synthesis by 90-95% irreversibly. Anomalous sucrose-density-gradient sedimentation behaviour of the DNA, and of precursor [(3)H]-dTTP, was observed when nuclei were lysed with solutions of sodium dodecyl sulphate/Mg(2+) or with Sarkosyl/Mg(2+), but consistent results, showing that the DNA synthesized in vitro sedimented exclusively at about 4S, were obtained when nuclei were lysed with sodium dodecyl sulphate (without Mg(2+))/EDTA, digested with proteinase K and heated at 100 degrees C with 11% (v/v) formaldehyde to prevent macromolecular association. These results, coupled with density-labelling studies with bromodeoxyuridine and CsCl-density-gradient analysis, showed that DNA synthesis in these nuclei was replicative and was restricted to a covalent extension of Okazaki pieces previously initiated in vivo. No new initiations were observed, and the DNA was not ligated into larger molecules. The cessation of DNA synthesis after about 60 min was due to the complete utilization of available primer/template DNA.", "contents": "Deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in isolated nuclei from baby-hamster kidney cells (BHK-21/C13). Characterization of the system. A comparative study of some commonly employed laboratory procedures for studying DNA synthesis in isolated nuclei was carried out. Nuclei isolated from baby-hamster kidney (BHK-21/C13) cells synthesize DNA for 30-60min at 37 degrees C in a reaction requiring uni- and bi-valent cations, ATP and all four deoxyribonucleoside 5'-triphosphates. The addition of either ribonucleotides or cytosol from S-phase cells had no effect, but DNA synthesis was stimulated by some dextrans (mol.wt. 5x10(6)). The extent of synthesis was influenced by apparently minor variations in experimental conditions. For example, DNA synthesis by nuclei in Tris/HCl, pH7.5, was only 50% of that observed in Hepes/NaOH, pH7.5; the presence of detergents Triton X-100, Triton N-101, Nonidet P-40, Brij 58 and Tween 80 in the incubation medium altered the amount of synthesis to different extents. Although most detergents inhibited synthesis, a stimulation occurred with Tween 80 (150% of controls). These effects were reversed on washing the nuclei, except that of Brij 58, which inhibited DNA synthesis by 90-95% irreversibly. Anomalous sucrose-density-gradient sedimentation behaviour of the DNA, and of precursor [(3)H]-dTTP, was observed when nuclei were lysed with solutions of sodium dodecyl sulphate/Mg(2+) or with Sarkosyl/Mg(2+), but consistent results, showing that the DNA synthesized in vitro sedimented exclusively at about 4S, were obtained when nuclei were lysed with sodium dodecyl sulphate (without Mg(2+))/EDTA, digested with proteinase K and heated at 100 degrees C with 11% (v/v) formaldehyde to prevent macromolecular association. These results, coupled with density-labelling studies with bromodeoxyuridine and CsCl-density-gradient analysis, showed that DNA synthesis in these nuclei was replicative and was restricted to a covalent extension of Okazaki pieces previously initiated in vivo. No new initiations were observed, and the DNA was not ligated into larger molecules. The cessation of DNA synthesis after about 60 min was due to the complete utilization of available primer/template DNA.", "PMID": 454370} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11163", "title": "Effect of drugs on deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in isolated mammalian cell nuclei. Comparison with partially purified deoxyribonucleic acid polymerases.", "content": "In order to ascertain the identity of the DNA-dependent DNA polymerase responsible for the observed DNA synthesis in nuclei isolated from baby-hamster kidney (BHK-21/C13) cells a comparative study was carried out on the effects of some drugs, reported to influence DNA synthesis, on DNA synthesis catalysed by these nuclei and by partially purified DNA polymerase-alpha and -beta. In all cases DNA synthesis by isolated nuclei and polymerase-alpha was inhibited to similar extents by N-ethylmaleimide, p-hydroxymercuribenzoate, novobiocin, heparin and phosphonoacetic acid; polymerase-beta was much less affected by these compounds. Ethidium bromide inhibited all DNA synthesis to similar extents, although at low concentrations (about 2 microgram/ml) synthesis in isolated nuclei was stimulated. The results are discussed in relation to the proposal that DNA polymerase-alpha catalyses the covalent extension of Okazaki fragments that these nuclei carry out in vitro.", "contents": "Effect of drugs on deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in isolated mammalian cell nuclei. Comparison with partially purified deoxyribonucleic acid polymerases. In order to ascertain the identity of the DNA-dependent DNA polymerase responsible for the observed DNA synthesis in nuclei isolated from baby-hamster kidney (BHK-21/C13) cells a comparative study was carried out on the effects of some drugs, reported to influence DNA synthesis, on DNA synthesis catalysed by these nuclei and by partially purified DNA polymerase-alpha and -beta. In all cases DNA synthesis by isolated nuclei and polymerase-alpha was inhibited to similar extents by N-ethylmaleimide, p-hydroxymercuribenzoate, novobiocin, heparin and phosphonoacetic acid; polymerase-beta was much less affected by these compounds. Ethidium bromide inhibited all DNA synthesis to similar extents, although at low concentrations (about 2 microgram/ml) synthesis in isolated nuclei was stimulated. The results are discussed in relation to the proposal that DNA polymerase-alpha catalyses the covalent extension of Okazaki fragments that these nuclei carry out in vitro.", "PMID": 454371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11164", "title": "Regulation of mammalian protein synthesis in vivo. Simulated transport of nuclear ribonucleoprotein complexes to the cytoplasm after cycloheximide treatment.", "content": "By studies in vivo with purified nuclei from rat liver, it was shown that a non-lethal dose of cycloheximide causes a decrease in the content of total nuclear ribonucleoprotein complexes by 2h after treatment. Analysis of the complex by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation substantiated this observation for the faster-sedimenting complex, but showed an increase in the content of a smaller complex. Radioisotope incorporation studies showed that the overall decrease in nuclear ribonucleoprotein content was not due to a decreased synthesis, but rather to an increased transport to the cytoplasm. The results of a double-radioisotope technique support the conclusion that, during the inhibitory phase of protein synthesis brough on by cycloheximdie, gene transcription continues and the gene product is transported to the cytoplasm for subsequent translation.", "contents": "Regulation of mammalian protein synthesis in vivo. Simulated transport of nuclear ribonucleoprotein complexes to the cytoplasm after cycloheximide treatment. By studies in vivo with purified nuclei from rat liver, it was shown that a non-lethal dose of cycloheximide causes a decrease in the content of total nuclear ribonucleoprotein complexes by 2h after treatment. Analysis of the complex by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation substantiated this observation for the faster-sedimenting complex, but showed an increase in the content of a smaller complex. Radioisotope incorporation studies showed that the overall decrease in nuclear ribonucleoprotein content was not due to a decreased synthesis, but rather to an increased transport to the cytoplasm. The results of a double-radioisotope technique support the conclusion that, during the inhibitory phase of protein synthesis brough on by cycloheximdie, gene transcription continues and the gene product is transported to the cytoplasm for subsequent translation.", "PMID": 454372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11165", "title": "The distribution and chemical nature of radioactive folates in rat liver cells and rat liver mitochondria.", "content": "Subcellular fractionation of rat liver cells revealed that a mixture of 14C- and 3H-labelled folic acid was distributed approximately equally between the mitochondria and cytosol 2, 24, 48 and 72 h after oral administration. Subfractionation of liver mitochondria 48 h after oral administration showed that the radioactivity was mainly associated with the inner membrane (27.7%) and matrix (51.5%). Hot-ascorbate extraction of the cell cytosol, mitochondrial inner membrane and matrix showed the majority of folates were present as polyglutamates. Acid treatment of isolated folates from cytosol, inner membrane and matrix produced breakdown products consistent with scission of tetrahydrofolates. The folates isolated in the mitochondrial matrix were bound to protein that had an estimated mol. wt. of 90,000.", "contents": "The distribution and chemical nature of radioactive folates in rat liver cells and rat liver mitochondria. Subcellular fractionation of rat liver cells revealed that a mixture of 14C- and 3H-labelled folic acid was distributed approximately equally between the mitochondria and cytosol 2, 24, 48 and 72 h after oral administration. Subfractionation of liver mitochondria 48 h after oral administration showed that the radioactivity was mainly associated with the inner membrane (27.7%) and matrix (51.5%). Hot-ascorbate extraction of the cell cytosol, mitochondrial inner membrane and matrix showed the majority of folates were present as polyglutamates. Acid treatment of isolated folates from cytosol, inner membrane and matrix produced breakdown products consistent with scission of tetrahydrofolates. The folates isolated in the mitochondrial matrix were bound to protein that had an estimated mol. wt. of 90,000.", "PMID": 454373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11166", "title": "Polyprenyl phosphate sugars synthesized during slime-polysaccharide production by membranes of the root-cap cells of maize (Zea mays).", "content": "Two types of experiments were carried out; either maize roots were incubated in L-[1-3H]fucose or membranes were prepared from root tips and these were incubated with GDP-L-[U-14C]fucose or UDP-D-[U-4C]glucose. The radioactively labelled lipids that were synthesized in vivo and in vitro were extracted and separated into polar and neutral components. The polar lipids had the characteristics of polyprenyl phosphate and diphosphate fucose or glucose derivatives, and the neutral lipids of sterol glycosides (fucose or glucose). A partial separation of the glycolipid synthetase reactions was achieved. Membranes were fractionated into material that sedimented at 20,000g and 100,000g. Most of the polar glycolipid synthetase activity (for the incorporation of both fucose and glucose) was located in the 100,000 g pellet, and this activity was probably located in the endoplasmic reticulum. The neutral lipid, which contained fucose, was synthesized mainly by membranes of the 20,000g pellet, and the activity was probably associated with the dictyosomes, whereas the neutral glucolipids were synthesized by all the membrane fractions. It is suggested that the polar (polyprenyl) lipids labelled with fucose could act as possible intermediates during the synthesis of the glycoproteins and slime in the root tip.", "contents": "Polyprenyl phosphate sugars synthesized during slime-polysaccharide production by membranes of the root-cap cells of maize (Zea mays). Two types of experiments were carried out; either maize roots were incubated in L-[1-3H]fucose or membranes were prepared from root tips and these were incubated with GDP-L-[U-14C]fucose or UDP-D-[U-4C]glucose. The radioactively labelled lipids that were synthesized in vivo and in vitro were extracted and separated into polar and neutral components. The polar lipids had the characteristics of polyprenyl phosphate and diphosphate fucose or glucose derivatives, and the neutral lipids of sterol glycosides (fucose or glucose). A partial separation of the glycolipid synthetase reactions was achieved. Membranes were fractionated into material that sedimented at 20,000g and 100,000g. Most of the polar glycolipid synthetase activity (for the incorporation of both fucose and glucose) was located in the 100,000 g pellet, and this activity was probably located in the endoplasmic reticulum. The neutral lipid, which contained fucose, was synthesized mainly by membranes of the 20,000g pellet, and the activity was probably associated with the dictyosomes, whereas the neutral glucolipids were synthesized by all the membrane fractions. It is suggested that the polar (polyprenyl) lipids labelled with fucose could act as possible intermediates during the synthesis of the glycoproteins and slime in the root tip.", "PMID": 454374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11167", "title": "Modulation of Ca2+ efflux from heart mitochondria.", "content": "The efflux of Ca2+ from rat heart mitochondria has been examined by using Ruthenium Red to inhibit active uptake after predetermined loadings with Ca2+. The efflux is proportional to the internal Ca2+ load; it is increased by Na+ applied when the mitochondria are respiring and this effect is inhibited by oligomycin. The efflux of Ca2+ is diminished by ATP and by ADP, with the latter the more effective. Both active uptake and efflux of Ca2+ are slowed by bongkrekic acid; this action has a time lag. The lower efflux found with the nucleotides and with bongkrekic acid seems to correspond to the more condensed state seen in the electron microscope when these agents are applied [Stoner & Sirak (1973) J. Cell Biol. 56, 51-64, 65-73]. The results are discussed in relation to the less-permeable state being contingent upon nucleotide binding to the membrane.", "contents": "Modulation of Ca2+ efflux from heart mitochondria. The efflux of Ca2+ from rat heart mitochondria has been examined by using Ruthenium Red to inhibit active uptake after predetermined loadings with Ca2+. The efflux is proportional to the internal Ca2+ load; it is increased by Na+ applied when the mitochondria are respiring and this effect is inhibited by oligomycin. The efflux of Ca2+ is diminished by ATP and by ADP, with the latter the more effective. Both active uptake and efflux of Ca2+ are slowed by bongkrekic acid; this action has a time lag. The lower efflux found with the nucleotides and with bongkrekic acid seems to correspond to the more condensed state seen in the electron microscope when these agents are applied [Stoner & Sirak (1973) J. Cell Biol. 56, 51-64, 65-73]. The results are discussed in relation to the less-permeable state being contingent upon nucleotide binding to the membrane.", "PMID": 454375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11168", "title": "Selective cleavage of variant surface glycoproteins from Trypanosoma brucei.", "content": "Two conformationally distinct regions were revealed by tryptic cleavage of six undenatured variant surface glycoproteins purified from clones of Trypanosoma brucei. Within 5 min, the native glycoproteins (65,000 mol.wt.) were cleaved, yielding a large N-terminal fragment (48,000-55,000 mol.wt. depending on the variant) together with one or more C-terminal fragments. After 30-60 min incubation, further breakdown of the large fragment occurred in some variants. The ultimate large product (40,000-52,000 mol.wt.) was very resistant to further degradation by trypsin (in the absence of denaturation). The distinction between N-terminal and C-terminal domains may be significant in relation to the organization and function of these glycoproteins on the trypanosome surface.", "contents": "Selective cleavage of variant surface glycoproteins from Trypanosoma brucei. Two conformationally distinct regions were revealed by tryptic cleavage of six undenatured variant surface glycoproteins purified from clones of Trypanosoma brucei. Within 5 min, the native glycoproteins (65,000 mol.wt.) were cleaved, yielding a large N-terminal fragment (48,000-55,000 mol.wt. depending on the variant) together with one or more C-terminal fragments. After 30-60 min incubation, further breakdown of the large fragment occurred in some variants. The ultimate large product (40,000-52,000 mol.wt.) was very resistant to further degradation by trypsin (in the absence of denaturation). The distinction between N-terminal and C-terminal domains may be significant in relation to the organization and function of these glycoproteins on the trypanosome surface.", "PMID": 454376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11169", "title": "Pools and protein synthesis in mammalian cells.", "content": "From the kinetics of incorporation into protein shown by four amino acids and one amino acid analogue in suspension cultured HeLa S-3 cells, two distinctly different patterns were observed under the same experimental conditions. An initial slow exponential incorporation followed by linear kinetics was characteristic of the two non-essential amino acids, glycine and proline, whereas the two essential amino acids studied, phenylalanine and leucine, showed linear kinetics of incorporation with no detectable delay. The analogue amino acid, p-fluorophenylalanine also showed immediate linear kinetics of incorporation. There was a poor correlation between the rate of formation of acid-soluble pools and incorporation kinetics. However, the rate of formation of the freely diffusible pool of amino acids correlated more closely with incorporation kinetics. The lack of direct involvement of the acid-soluble pool in protein synthesis was also demonstrated by pre-loading of pools before treatment of cells with labelled amino acids. The results partially support the hypothesis that precursor amino acids for protein synthesis come from the external medium rather than the acid-soluble pool, but suggest that the amino acid which freely diffuses into the cell from the external medium could also be the source.", "contents": "Pools and protein synthesis in mammalian cells. From the kinetics of incorporation into protein shown by four amino acids and one amino acid analogue in suspension cultured HeLa S-3 cells, two distinctly different patterns were observed under the same experimental conditions. An initial slow exponential incorporation followed by linear kinetics was characteristic of the two non-essential amino acids, glycine and proline, whereas the two essential amino acids studied, phenylalanine and leucine, showed linear kinetics of incorporation with no detectable delay. The analogue amino acid, p-fluorophenylalanine also showed immediate linear kinetics of incorporation. There was a poor correlation between the rate of formation of acid-soluble pools and incorporation kinetics. However, the rate of formation of the freely diffusible pool of amino acids correlated more closely with incorporation kinetics. The lack of direct involvement of the acid-soluble pool in protein synthesis was also demonstrated by pre-loading of pools before treatment of cells with labelled amino acids. The results partially support the hypothesis that precursor amino acids for protein synthesis come from the external medium rather than the acid-soluble pool, but suggest that the amino acid which freely diffuses into the cell from the external medium could also be the source.", "PMID": 454377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11170", "title": "Effect of hypophysectomy on the rates of protein synthesis and degradation in rat liver.", "content": "The effect of hypophysectomy on the protein metabolism of the liver in vivo was studied. Fractional rates of protein synthesis and degradation were determined in the livers of normal and hypophysectomized rats. Synthesis was measured after the injection of massive amounts of radioactive leucine. Degradation was estimated either as the balance between synthesis and accumulation of stable liver proteins or from the disappearance of radioactivity from the proteins previously labelled by the injection of NaH14CO3. The results indicate that: (1) hypophysectomy diminishes the capacity of the liver to synthesize proteins in vivo, mainly of those that are exported as plasma proteins; (2) livers of both normal and hypophysectomized rats show identical protein-degradation rates, whereas plasma proteins are degraded slowly after hypophysectomy.", "contents": "Effect of hypophysectomy on the rates of protein synthesis and degradation in rat liver. The effect of hypophysectomy on the protein metabolism of the liver in vivo was studied. Fractional rates of protein synthesis and degradation were determined in the livers of normal and hypophysectomized rats. Synthesis was measured after the injection of massive amounts of radioactive leucine. Degradation was estimated either as the balance between synthesis and accumulation of stable liver proteins or from the disappearance of radioactivity from the proteins previously labelled by the injection of NaH14CO3. The results indicate that: (1) hypophysectomy diminishes the capacity of the liver to synthesize proteins in vivo, mainly of those that are exported as plasma proteins; (2) livers of both normal and hypophysectomized rats show identical protein-degradation rates, whereas plasma proteins are degraded slowly after hypophysectomy.", "PMID": 454378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11171", "title": "Glucose metabolism in perfused skeletal muscle. Demonstration of insulin resistance in the obese Zucker rat.", "content": "1. The effect of insulin (0.5, 10 and 50 munits/ml of perfusate) on glucose uptake and disposal in skeletal muscle was studied in the isolated perfused hindquarter of obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats and Osborne-Mendel rats. 2. A concentration of 0.5 munit of insulin/ml induced a significant increase in glucose uptake (approx. 2.5 mumol/min per 30 g of muscle) in lean Zucker rats and in Osborne-Mendel rats, and 10 munits of insulin/ml caused a further increase to approx. 6 mumol/min per 30 g of muscle; but 50 munits of insulin/ml had no additional stimulatory effect. In contrast, in obese Zucker rats only 10 and 50 munits of insulin/ml had a stimulatory effect on glucose uptake, the magnitude of which was decreased by 50-70% when compared with either lean control group. Since under no experimental condition tested was an accumulation of free glucose in muscle-cell water observed, the data suggest an impairment of insulin-stimulated glucose transport across the muscle-cell membrane in obese Zucker rats. 3. The intracellular disposal of glucose in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats was also insulin-insensitive: even at insulin concentrations that clearly stimulated glucose uptake, no effect of insulin on lactate oxidation (nor an inhibitory effect on alanine release) was observed; [14C]glucose incorporation into skeletal-muscle lipids was stimulated by 50 munits of insulin/ml, but the rate was still only 10% of that observed in lean Zucker rats. 4. The data indicate that the skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats is insulin-resistant with respect to both glucose-transport mechanisms and intracellular pathways of glucose metabolism, such as lactate oxidation. The excessive degree of insulin-insensitivity in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats may represent a causal factor in the development of the glucose intolerance in this species.", "contents": "Glucose metabolism in perfused skeletal muscle. Demonstration of insulin resistance in the obese Zucker rat. 1. The effect of insulin (0.5, 10 and 50 munits/ml of perfusate) on glucose uptake and disposal in skeletal muscle was studied in the isolated perfused hindquarter of obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats and Osborne-Mendel rats. 2. A concentration of 0.5 munit of insulin/ml induced a significant increase in glucose uptake (approx. 2.5 mumol/min per 30 g of muscle) in lean Zucker rats and in Osborne-Mendel rats, and 10 munits of insulin/ml caused a further increase to approx. 6 mumol/min per 30 g of muscle; but 50 munits of insulin/ml had no additional stimulatory effect. In contrast, in obese Zucker rats only 10 and 50 munits of insulin/ml had a stimulatory effect on glucose uptake, the magnitude of which was decreased by 50-70% when compared with either lean control group. Since under no experimental condition tested was an accumulation of free glucose in muscle-cell water observed, the data suggest an impairment of insulin-stimulated glucose transport across the muscle-cell membrane in obese Zucker rats. 3. The intracellular disposal of glucose in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats was also insulin-insensitive: even at insulin concentrations that clearly stimulated glucose uptake, no effect of insulin on lactate oxidation (nor an inhibitory effect on alanine release) was observed; [14C]glucose incorporation into skeletal-muscle lipids was stimulated by 50 munits of insulin/ml, but the rate was still only 10% of that observed in lean Zucker rats. 4. The data indicate that the skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats is insulin-resistant with respect to both glucose-transport mechanisms and intracellular pathways of glucose metabolism, such as lactate oxidation. The excessive degree of insulin-insensitivity in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats may represent a causal factor in the development of the glucose intolerance in this species.", "PMID": 454379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11172", "title": "Analytical subcellular fractionation of alveolar macrophages from normal and BCG-vaccinated rabbits with particular reference to heterogeneity of hydrolase-containing granules.", "content": "Macrophages were obtained by pulmonary lavage from normal rabbits or rabbits that had developed pulmonary granulomas after receiving intravenous BCG vaccine 2-3 weeks earlier. The cells were disrupted in iso-osmotic sucrose and a low-speed supernatant was fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation on a linear sucrose density gradient. Three populations of hydrolase-containing granules (putative lysosomes) were found in both normal and BCG-induced macrophages. They were distinguished by their different distributions in the gradient and different sensitivities to disruption by digitonin and were termed:type A, containing lysozyme; type B, containing N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glactosidase, beta-glucuronidase and possibly some lysozyme; type C, containing cathepsin D. Acid phosphatase appeared to be about equally distributed between type B and C granules. Type A and B granules from BCG-induced macrophages showed markedly greater equilibrium density than did those from normal macrophages. Beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase had greater specific activity in the induced cells.", "contents": "Analytical subcellular fractionation of alveolar macrophages from normal and BCG-vaccinated rabbits with particular reference to heterogeneity of hydrolase-containing granules. Macrophages were obtained by pulmonary lavage from normal rabbits or rabbits that had developed pulmonary granulomas after receiving intravenous BCG vaccine 2-3 weeks earlier. The cells were disrupted in iso-osmotic sucrose and a low-speed supernatant was fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation on a linear sucrose density gradient. Three populations of hydrolase-containing granules (putative lysosomes) were found in both normal and BCG-induced macrophages. They were distinguished by their different distributions in the gradient and different sensitivities to disruption by digitonin and were termed:type A, containing lysozyme; type B, containing N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glactosidase, beta-glucuronidase and possibly some lysozyme; type C, containing cathepsin D. Acid phosphatase appeared to be about equally distributed between type B and C granules. Type A and B granules from BCG-induced macrophages showed markedly greater equilibrium density than did those from normal macrophages. Beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase had greater specific activity in the induced cells.", "PMID": 454380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11173", "title": "Studies on the collagen glucosyltransferase activity present in platelets and plasma.", "content": "1. Collagen glucosyltransferase was demonstrated to be associated with pig platelets by using a specific assay for the synthesis of [(14)C]glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine. 2. This enzyme from pig platelets required denatured collagen as substrate and the reaction was not inhibited by the presence of triple-helical collagen. These observations indicate that the platelet enzyme cannot form either an enzyme-substrate complex or an enzyme-inhibitor complex with triple-helical collagen. 3. Platelets were fractionated by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation after either lysis by a glycerol-loading technique or homogenization. Assays of subcellular fractions for collagen glucosyltransferase activity indicated that the enzyme was localized predominantly in the cytosolic fraction and less than 5% of the activity was associated with the membrane fractions. 4. Enzyme assays were carried out on platelet-rich plasma and platelet-poor plasma prepared from pig and human blood. These analyses indicated that most of the collagen glucosyltransferase activity of platelet-rich plasma was in a soluble form and only about 10% was associated with platelets. 5. Comparative studies on the enzyme activity in plasma and platelets of various animal species revealed marked variation, with the guinea pig exhibiting the highest activity. In most cases there was a correlation between the activity found in platelets and plasma, but little species variation was noted in enzyme amounts detected in bone-marrow preparations. 6. The results described here are discussed in the context of the proposal that collagen glucosyltransferase might play a role in mediating collagen-platelet adhesion.", "contents": "Studies on the collagen glucosyltransferase activity present in platelets and plasma. 1. Collagen glucosyltransferase was demonstrated to be associated with pig platelets by using a specific assay for the synthesis of [(14)C]glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine. 2. This enzyme from pig platelets required denatured collagen as substrate and the reaction was not inhibited by the presence of triple-helical collagen. These observations indicate that the platelet enzyme cannot form either an enzyme-substrate complex or an enzyme-inhibitor complex with triple-helical collagen. 3. Platelets were fractionated by sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation after either lysis by a glycerol-loading technique or homogenization. Assays of subcellular fractions for collagen glucosyltransferase activity indicated that the enzyme was localized predominantly in the cytosolic fraction and less than 5% of the activity was associated with the membrane fractions. 4. Enzyme assays were carried out on platelet-rich plasma and platelet-poor plasma prepared from pig and human blood. These analyses indicated that most of the collagen glucosyltransferase activity of platelet-rich plasma was in a soluble form and only about 10% was associated with platelets. 5. Comparative studies on the enzyme activity in plasma and platelets of various animal species revealed marked variation, with the guinea pig exhibiting the highest activity. In most cases there was a correlation between the activity found in platelets and plasma, but little species variation was noted in enzyme amounts detected in bone-marrow preparations. 6. The results described here are discussed in the context of the proposal that collagen glucosyltransferase might play a role in mediating collagen-platelet adhesion.", "PMID": 454381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11174", "title": "Rate of pinocytic capture of macromolecular substrates by rat yolk sac incubated in serum-free culture medium.", "content": "Pinocytic activity was quantified for rat yolk sacs incubated in a medium that was either serum-free or contained 10% (v/v) of calf serum. Absence of serum from the medium caused a small increase in the rate of pinosome formation, as determined by the rates of capture of both 125I-labelled poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and [14C]sucrose. In contrast, the rates of uptake of substrates ingested by adsorptive pinocytosis were greatly enhanced when serum proteins, which compete for the same binding sites on the plasma membrane as used by adsorbing substrates, were absent. Elimination of such competition greatly simplifies the quantitative analysis of the binding process, and permitted a detailed study of the binding to the plasma membrane of formaldehyde-denatured bovine serum albumin, a protein that is rapidly digested within the lysosomal system after its pinocytic capture. Binding obeyed Michaelis-Menten kinetics and showed a dissociation constant of approx. 1 micron, indicating the high affinity of this protein for binding sites on the surface of actively pinocytosing yolk-sac cells.", "contents": "Rate of pinocytic capture of macromolecular substrates by rat yolk sac incubated in serum-free culture medium. Pinocytic activity was quantified for rat yolk sacs incubated in a medium that was either serum-free or contained 10% (v/v) of calf serum. Absence of serum from the medium caused a small increase in the rate of pinosome formation, as determined by the rates of capture of both 125I-labelled poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and [14C]sucrose. In contrast, the rates of uptake of substrates ingested by adsorptive pinocytosis were greatly enhanced when serum proteins, which compete for the same binding sites on the plasma membrane as used by adsorbing substrates, were absent. Elimination of such competition greatly simplifies the quantitative analysis of the binding process, and permitted a detailed study of the binding to the plasma membrane of formaldehyde-denatured bovine serum albumin, a protein that is rapidly digested within the lysosomal system after its pinocytic capture. Binding obeyed Michaelis-Menten kinetics and showed a dissociation constant of approx. 1 micron, indicating the high affinity of this protein for binding sites on the surface of actively pinocytosing yolk-sac cells.", "PMID": 454382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11175", "title": "The identification of p-acetamidobenzoate as a folate degradation product in rat urine.", "content": "Within 48 h of administration of radiolabelled 10-formylfolate, folic acid and the polyglutamate derivative 10-formylfolate tetraglutamate to the rat, fragmentation products are found in the urine. The major catabolite was identified as p-acetamidobenzoate by chromatography and reverse isotope-dilution analysis.", "contents": "The identification of p-acetamidobenzoate as a folate degradation product in rat urine. Within 48 h of administration of radiolabelled 10-formylfolate, folic acid and the polyglutamate derivative 10-formylfolate tetraglutamate to the rat, fragmentation products are found in the urine. The major catabolite was identified as p-acetamidobenzoate by chromatography and reverse isotope-dilution analysis.", "PMID": 454383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11176", "title": "Cardiac involvement in rheumatoid arthritis. Followup study.", "content": "Initial studies from Bowman Gray School of Medicine showed that 18 of 30 patients with classic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had cardiac involvement from their disease. These abnormalities were detected by echocardiography and consisted of mitral valve and/or pericardial abnormalities. All patients were followed for 4 years from the initial workup. Mitral valve abnormalities were seen on followup in 63% of the patients who initially showed this abnormality, while pericardial effusion remained in 20%. Pericardial thickening persisted in 6 of 7 patients. None of the patients developed constrictive pericarditis or heart failure. There was no definite correlation between persistence of these abnormalities and other clinical data, but it was noticed that patients who had persistent pericardial effusion and mitral valve abnormalities showed a higher number of involved joints and a higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The cardiac abnormalities described in this study have remained clinically insignificant in this population of RA patients.", "contents": "Cardiac involvement in rheumatoid arthritis. Followup study. Initial studies from Bowman Gray School of Medicine showed that 18 of 30 patients with classic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had cardiac involvement from their disease. These abnormalities were detected by echocardiography and consisted of mitral valve and/or pericardial abnormalities. All patients were followed for 4 years from the initial workup. Mitral valve abnormalities were seen on followup in 63% of the patients who initially showed this abnormality, while pericardial effusion remained in 20%. Pericardial thickening persisted in 6 of 7 patients. None of the patients developed constrictive pericarditis or heart failure. There was no definite correlation between persistence of these abnormalities and other clinical data, but it was noticed that patients who had persistent pericardial effusion and mitral valve abnormalities showed a higher number of involved joints and a higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The cardiac abnormalities described in this study have remained clinically insignificant in this population of RA patients.", "PMID": 454495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11177", "title": "Synovial permeability in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as in persons with other kinds of synovitis, proteins enter the knee joint more rapidly than in normal individuals (P less than 0.001). The rheumatoid synovium, however, is less permeable to small molecules (tritiated water, P less than 0.02; urate, P less than 0.05; and glucose, P less than 0.002) than is the normal joint lining. This difference is explained if rheumatoid microvascular changes enhance synovial permeability to proteins while coexisting interstitial changes diminish synovial permeability to smaller molecules.", "contents": "Synovial permeability in rheumatoid arthritis. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as in persons with other kinds of synovitis, proteins enter the knee joint more rapidly than in normal individuals (P less than 0.001). The rheumatoid synovium, however, is less permeable to small molecules (tritiated water, P less than 0.02; urate, P less than 0.05; and glucose, P less than 0.002) than is the normal joint lining. This difference is explained if rheumatoid microvascular changes enhance synovial permeability to proteins while coexisting interstitial changes diminish synovial permeability to smaller molecules.", "PMID": 454497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11178", "title": "Increased C1q binding immune complexes in Felty's syndrome: comparison with uncomplicated rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "Sera from patients with Felty's syndrome (FS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were examined for the presence of circulating immune complexes (IC) by using the 125I-C1q binding and monoclonal rheumatoid factor (mRF) techniques. Of 15 patients with FS, 9 (60%) had high 125I-C1q binding as compared to 3 of 26 RA patients (12%). The average C1q binding was significantly higher in the FS patients than in the RA patients without FS. C1q binding in both FS and RA patients was significantly higher than a group of 90 normal controls. In addition, serum C4 levels were significantly lower in the FS patients than in the RA patients. In contrast to these findings, IC levels in FS and RA patients were very similar when measured by the mRF technique. These studies indicate that FS patients have higher levels of complement-fixing IC in their sera than RA patients without FS. These findings raise the possibility that the complement-fixing IC found in these patients may play a role in the pathogenesis of neutropenia of FS.", "contents": "Increased C1q binding immune complexes in Felty's syndrome: comparison with uncomplicated rheumatoid arthritis. Sera from patients with Felty's syndrome (FS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were examined for the presence of circulating immune complexes (IC) by using the 125I-C1q binding and monoclonal rheumatoid factor (mRF) techniques. Of 15 patients with FS, 9 (60%) had high 125I-C1q binding as compared to 3 of 26 RA patients (12%). The average C1q binding was significantly higher in the FS patients than in the RA patients without FS. C1q binding in both FS and RA patients was significantly higher than a group of 90 normal controls. In addition, serum C4 levels were significantly lower in the FS patients than in the RA patients. In contrast to these findings, IC levels in FS and RA patients were very similar when measured by the mRF technique. These studies indicate that FS patients have higher levels of complement-fixing IC in their sera than RA patients without FS. These findings raise the possibility that the complement-fixing IC found in these patients may play a role in the pathogenesis of neutropenia of FS.", "PMID": 454498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11179", "title": "Plasmapheresis and lymphoplasmapheresis in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "We have demonstrated the efficacy of therapeutic pheresis in a number of rheumatic diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Ten of 12 patients with RA went into remissions averaging 4 months. These patients were pheresed 20 times over 11 weeks in a tapering fashion on a Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor. Clinical remissions were sustained even though serologies, immunoglobulins, immune functions, sedimentation rates, and circulating immune complexes returned to their pre-pheresis baseline by pheresis number 20. All these patients were taking gold or D-penicillamine concurrently, but neither of the 2 patients who failed to respond was on these agents. Plasmapheresis was just as effective as lymphoplasmapheresis. It is theorized that removal of a plasma factor that modulates lymphocyte or neutrophil function produces remissions in RA and that long-acting drugs (e.g., gold or penicillamine) are able to prevent its continued production and produce a sustained remission.", "contents": "Plasmapheresis and lymphoplasmapheresis in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. We have demonstrated the efficacy of therapeutic pheresis in a number of rheumatic diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Ten of 12 patients with RA went into remissions averaging 4 months. These patients were pheresed 20 times over 11 weeks in a tapering fashion on a Haemonetics Model 30 Blood Processor. Clinical remissions were sustained even though serologies, immunoglobulins, immune functions, sedimentation rates, and circulating immune complexes returned to their pre-pheresis baseline by pheresis number 20. All these patients were taking gold or D-penicillamine concurrently, but neither of the 2 patients who failed to respond was on these agents. Plasmapheresis was just as effective as lymphoplasmapheresis. It is theorized that removal of a plasma factor that modulates lymphocyte or neutrophil function produces remissions in RA and that long-acting drugs (e.g., gold or penicillamine) are able to prevent its continued production and produce a sustained remission.", "PMID": 454499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11180", "title": "Urate binding to serum albumin: lack of influence on renal clearance of uric acid.", "content": "Fractional excretion of uric acid (Curate/Ccreat X 100) was determined in 1 4-year-old analbuminemic child and an age-matched control. Fractional excretion of urate was 19% in the analbuminemic child and 24% in the control subject. These values are within the range reported for normal children of this age. We conclude from this study that urate binding to serum albumin is not an important determinant of the renal clearance of uric acid, and by inference there is no significant binding of urate to serum albumin in vivo.", "contents": "Urate binding to serum albumin: lack of influence on renal clearance of uric acid. Fractional excretion of uric acid (Curate/Ccreat X 100) was determined in 1 4-year-old analbuminemic child and an age-matched control. Fractional excretion of urate was 19% in the analbuminemic child and 24% in the control subject. These values are within the range reported for normal children of this age. We conclude from this study that urate binding to serum albumin is not an important determinant of the renal clearance of uric acid, and by inference there is no significant binding of urate to serum albumin in vivo.", "PMID": 454500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11181", "title": "Cellular immunity in polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis: lack of response to muscle or artery homogenates.", "content": "Peripheral blood lymphocyte functions were evaluated in 20 patients with active polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and/or giant cell arteritis (GCA) by determining the percent of E-rosette-forming cells and by measuring the uptake of tritiated thymidine by peripheral blood lymphocytes after exposure to common infectious antigens and to homogenates of homologous and heterologous artery, muscle, and elastin. Although lymphocytes from patients with PMR and/or GCA were stimulated slightly by artery and muscle homogenates, no differences in lymphocyte responses were found when the results were compared with 22 normal controls and 16 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The hypothesis that GCA results from a cellular immune reaction to normal or diseased arterial wall antigens is not supported by these studies.", "contents": "Cellular immunity in polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis: lack of response to muscle or artery homogenates. Peripheral blood lymphocyte functions were evaluated in 20 patients with active polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and/or giant cell arteritis (GCA) by determining the percent of E-rosette-forming cells and by measuring the uptake of tritiated thymidine by peripheral blood lymphocytes after exposure to common infectious antigens and to homogenates of homologous and heterologous artery, muscle, and elastin. Although lymphocytes from patients with PMR and/or GCA were stimulated slightly by artery and muscle homogenates, no differences in lymphocyte responses were found when the results were compared with 22 normal controls and 16 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The hypothesis that GCA results from a cellular immune reaction to normal or diseased arterial wall antigens is not supported by these studies.", "PMID": 454501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11182", "title": "Effect of salicylate on proteoglycan metabolism in normal canine articular cartilage in vitro.", "content": "In osteoarthritis, diminished aggregation of articular cartilage proteoglycans affects tissue biomechanics. Since salicylates are commonly employed in treatment of osteoarthritis, we examined the effect of sodium salicylate on proteoglycan metabolism and aggregation in normal canine articular cartilage. At salicylate concentrations of 10(-3)M, 5 X 10(-3)M and 10(-2)M, net proteoglycan synthesis in normal canine articular cartilage was 73%, 42% and 16% respectively, of control levels. Catabolism of glycosaminoglycans in the presence of 10(-3)M salicylate (which corresponds to a serum salicylate level of 20-25 mg %) was the same as that in control cartilage, while higher concentrations of the drug increased the rate of degradation. The hydrodynamic size of newly synthesized proteoglycan aggregates and of disaggregated proteoglycans was unaffected by sodium salicylate.", "contents": "Effect of salicylate on proteoglycan metabolism in normal canine articular cartilage in vitro. In osteoarthritis, diminished aggregation of articular cartilage proteoglycans affects tissue biomechanics. Since salicylates are commonly employed in treatment of osteoarthritis, we examined the effect of sodium salicylate on proteoglycan metabolism and aggregation in normal canine articular cartilage. At salicylate concentrations of 10(-3)M, 5 X 10(-3)M and 10(-2)M, net proteoglycan synthesis in normal canine articular cartilage was 73%, 42% and 16% respectively, of control levels. Catabolism of glycosaminoglycans in the presence of 10(-3)M salicylate (which corresponds to a serum salicylate level of 20-25 mg %) was the same as that in control cartilage, while higher concentrations of the drug increased the rate of degradation. The hydrodynamic size of newly synthesized proteoglycan aggregates and of disaggregated proteoglycans was unaffected by sodium salicylate.", "PMID": 454502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11183", "title": "Mortality in lupus nephritis.", "content": "The principal causes of death of 68 patients with lupus glomerulonephritis were reviewed. Renal failure (40%), vascular events (25%), and infections (16%) were the predominant causes. Diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis was associated with an increased frequency of renal failure. A bimodal pattern of early deaths due to active lupus and sepsis and late deaths from vascular events was found superimposed on a constant rate of death from renal failure.", "contents": "Mortality in lupus nephritis. The principal causes of death of 68 patients with lupus glomerulonephritis were reviewed. Renal failure (40%), vascular events (25%), and infections (16%) were the predominant causes. Diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis was associated with an increased frequency of renal failure. A bimodal pattern of early deaths due to active lupus and sepsis and late deaths from vascular events was found superimposed on a constant rate of death from renal failure.", "PMID": 454503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11184", "title": "Drug acetylation phenotype unrelated to development of spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "To ascertain if a genetically determined slow drug acetylation rate is correlated with the development of spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as it is in drug-induced SLE, acetylation phenotypes of 27 patients with spontaneous SLE were determined after administration of dapsone. Thirty-three percent were slow acetylators, 63% were rapid acetylators, and one was indeterminate, a distribution not significantly different from that expected in control subjects. Among 4 pairs of first-degree relatives, all of whom had spontaneous SLE, 7 of the 8 individuals were rapid acetylators. We conclude that people who are slow acetylators are at no greater risk for developing spontaneous SLE than are rapid acetylators and that the slow acetylation phenotype is not correlated with familial SLE.", "contents": "Drug acetylation phenotype unrelated to development of spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus. To ascertain if a genetically determined slow drug acetylation rate is correlated with the development of spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as it is in drug-induced SLE, acetylation phenotypes of 27 patients with spontaneous SLE were determined after administration of dapsone. Thirty-three percent were slow acetylators, 63% were rapid acetylators, and one was indeterminate, a distribution not significantly different from that expected in control subjects. Among 4 pairs of first-degree relatives, all of whom had spontaneous SLE, 7 of the 8 individuals were rapid acetylators. We conclude that people who are slow acetylators are at no greater risk for developing spontaneous SLE than are rapid acetylators and that the slow acetylation phenotype is not correlated with familial SLE.", "PMID": 454504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11185", "title": "Continuing education in rheumatoid arthritis for the primary care physician.", "content": "An educational program in rheumatoid arthritis was developed for primary care practitioners. This program is community based and utilizes physicians, identified by their peers as being influential, for the dissemination of information. A marked change in knowledge has been noted in those completing the program, but further followup is needed to determine if a change in the care of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will also result.", "contents": "Continuing education in rheumatoid arthritis for the primary care physician. An educational program in rheumatoid arthritis was developed for primary care practitioners. This program is community based and utilizes physicians, identified by their peers as being influential, for the dissemination of information. A marked change in knowledge has been noted in those completing the program, but further followup is needed to determine if a change in the care of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will also result.", "PMID": 454506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11186", "title": "Arterial entrance and metabolism of free and esterified plasma cholesterol measured in vivo in experimental animals by a dual isotope method.", "content": "The arterial walls of 3 cholesterol-fed rabbits were exposed for 3--4 hours in vivo to homologous cholesterol-labelled plasma with a 20-fold higher [3H/14C] ratio in esterified cholesterol (EC) than in free cholesterol (FC). The [3H/14C] ratio in total cholesterol (TC) in the thoracic aorta was 0.6--0.9 times the ratio prevailing in TC in plasma. This corresponds to a transfer from plasma into the arterial wall of relatively more FC, with the low ratio, than EC with the higher ratio. The [3H/14C] ratio in FC in the arterial wall was 1.4--2.0 times the ratio in FC in plasma. This corresponds to hydrolysis of some of the entered EC, adding cholesterol with the high ratio to FC with the lower ratio. The [3H/14C] ratio in EC in the arterial wall was 0.1--1.1 times the ratio in EC in plasma. This corresponds to no esterification in the arterial wall of entered FC. The same method applied to normolipidemic cockerels gave similar results. In a kinetic model the arterial influx from plasma of FC and EC combined (lipoprotein influx) corresponded in both groups to 20--90 nl plasma per cm2 arterial surface per hour with subsequent hydrolysis of 10--50% of the entered EC. The arterial influx of FC without EC (influx by exchange) accounted for 10--25% of the total influx of cholesterol in the rabbits and 40--70% in the cockerels.", "contents": "Arterial entrance and metabolism of free and esterified plasma cholesterol measured in vivo in experimental animals by a dual isotope method. The arterial walls of 3 cholesterol-fed rabbits were exposed for 3--4 hours in vivo to homologous cholesterol-labelled plasma with a 20-fold higher [3H/14C] ratio in esterified cholesterol (EC) than in free cholesterol (FC). The [3H/14C] ratio in total cholesterol (TC) in the thoracic aorta was 0.6--0.9 times the ratio prevailing in TC in plasma. This corresponds to a transfer from plasma into the arterial wall of relatively more FC, with the low ratio, than EC with the higher ratio. The [3H/14C] ratio in FC in the arterial wall was 1.4--2.0 times the ratio in FC in plasma. This corresponds to hydrolysis of some of the entered EC, adding cholesterol with the high ratio to FC with the lower ratio. The [3H/14C] ratio in EC in the arterial wall was 0.1--1.1 times the ratio in EC in plasma. This corresponds to no esterification in the arterial wall of entered FC. The same method applied to normolipidemic cockerels gave similar results. In a kinetic model the arterial influx from plasma of FC and EC combined (lipoprotein influx) corresponded in both groups to 20--90 nl plasma per cm2 arterial surface per hour with subsequent hydrolysis of 10--50% of the entered EC. The arterial influx of FC without EC (influx by exchange) accounted for 10--25% of the total influx of cholesterol in the rabbits and 40--70% in the cockerels.", "PMID": 454513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11187", "title": "The results of animal studies with ciprofibrate, a new orally effective hypolipidemic drug.", "content": "Findings are given to show that ciprofibrate, a new orally active phenoxyisobutyrate, is significantly more hypolipidemic than is the reference clofibrate. In hyperlipidemic rats ciprofibrate suppresses the increase in blood lipids 33% at a daily dosage of 0.6--3 mg/kg. The corresponding dosage for clofibrate is 125--460 mg/kg. Based on studies with cholesterol pools pre-labeled with [14C]mevalonate or with cholesterol-labeled pools in ciprofibrate-treated normolipidemic rats, ciprofibrate was shown to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis. No evidence of the presence of 7- or 24-dehydrocholesterol was obtained in the sera of ciprofibrate-treated rats as shown by gas chromatography examination. The order of hypolipidemic effectiveness of ciprofibrate in hyperlipidemic rats provides a basis for anticipating that ciprofibrate will be hypolipidemic in hyperlipoproteinemic subjects who are considered at high risk of acquiring coronary artery disease.", "contents": "The results of animal studies with ciprofibrate, a new orally effective hypolipidemic drug. Findings are given to show that ciprofibrate, a new orally active phenoxyisobutyrate, is significantly more hypolipidemic than is the reference clofibrate. In hyperlipidemic rats ciprofibrate suppresses the increase in blood lipids 33% at a daily dosage of 0.6--3 mg/kg. The corresponding dosage for clofibrate is 125--460 mg/kg. Based on studies with cholesterol pools pre-labeled with [14C]mevalonate or with cholesterol-labeled pools in ciprofibrate-treated normolipidemic rats, ciprofibrate was shown to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis. No evidence of the presence of 7- or 24-dehydrocholesterol was obtained in the sera of ciprofibrate-treated rats as shown by gas chromatography examination. The order of hypolipidemic effectiveness of ciprofibrate in hyperlipidemic rats provides a basis for anticipating that ciprofibrate will be hypolipidemic in hyperlipoproteinemic subjects who are considered at high risk of acquiring coronary artery disease.", "PMID": 454514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11188", "title": "Geographic comparisons of diffuse intimal thickening of the aorta.", "content": "Aortic intimal thickness was measured microscopically in samples taken from areas grossly free of atherosclerotic lesions of 2,472 subjects aged 15 through 64 years collected during the first year of the International Atherosclerosis Project (IAP). Results indicate that there is progressive increase in aortic intimal thickness with increasing age in both sexes. No differences were observed between the upper thoracic and abdominal aorta. Mean intimal thickness does not appear to be consistently thicker in males than in females. Some differences were found in mean thickness among the 19 location--race groups included; however, such differences did not parallel those observed among the same location--race groups by the mean level of atherosclerosis. A few subjects with Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and atherosclerosis-related cases had slightly thicker intimas. Diffuse Intimal Thickening (DIT) detected grossly correlates well with thicker means of intimal thickness in both sexes in the abdominal aorta and the thoracic aorta in females. DIT appears to be a universal phenomenon mainly age-dependent; it also appears to be increased in some (CHD) and atherosclerosis-related conditions.", "contents": "Geographic comparisons of diffuse intimal thickening of the aorta. Aortic intimal thickness was measured microscopically in samples taken from areas grossly free of atherosclerotic lesions of 2,472 subjects aged 15 through 64 years collected during the first year of the International Atherosclerosis Project (IAP). Results indicate that there is progressive increase in aortic intimal thickness with increasing age in both sexes. No differences were observed between the upper thoracic and abdominal aorta. Mean intimal thickness does not appear to be consistently thicker in males than in females. Some differences were found in mean thickness among the 19 location--race groups included; however, such differences did not parallel those observed among the same location--race groups by the mean level of atherosclerosis. A few subjects with Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and atherosclerosis-related cases had slightly thicker intimas. Diffuse Intimal Thickening (DIT) detected grossly correlates well with thicker means of intimal thickness in both sexes in the abdominal aorta and the thoracic aorta in females. DIT appears to be a universal phenomenon mainly age-dependent; it also appears to be increased in some (CHD) and atherosclerosis-related conditions.", "PMID": 454515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11189", "title": "Anti-inflammatory drugs in experimental atherosclerosis. Part 4. Inhibition of atherosclerosis in vivo and thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in vitro.", "content": "Groups of New Zealand white male rabbits were fed atherogenic diets containing 1% cholesterol. The diets of experimental groups were supplemented additionally with either aspirin, phenylbutazone, mefenamic acid, flufenamic acid, oxyphenylbutazone or aminopyrine. Blood cholesterol and phospholipids were measured at 3--4 week intervals. After 12 weeks the animals were sacrificed and the severity of atherosclerosis in the thoracic aorta was measured. In separate experiments, rabbit platelets were incubated with each of the drugs individually and conversion of [14C]arachidonic acid to thromboxanes and related compounds was assayed. Inhibition of collagen and arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation by each drug was also measured. All drugs inhibited thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in varying degrees with flufenamate and aspirin being most and aminopyrine least effective. The pattern of metabolite formation from [14C]arachidonate was consistent with a block in the cyclooxygenase reaction. Phenylbutazone, flufenamic acid and oxyphenylbutazone produced significant reductions in atherosclerotic plaque formation without major changes in blood cholesterol levels or blood cholesterol--phospholipid ratios. Aspirin and aminopyrine were ineffective. The results indicate that the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs as inhibitors of thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in vitro does not afford a sufficient predictive index of their anti-atherogenicity in vivo. The significance of these findings is discussed in terms of the possible involvement of cyclooxygenase derivatives in atherogenesis.", "contents": "Anti-inflammatory drugs in experimental atherosclerosis. Part 4. Inhibition of atherosclerosis in vivo and thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in vitro. Groups of New Zealand white male rabbits were fed atherogenic diets containing 1% cholesterol. The diets of experimental groups were supplemented additionally with either aspirin, phenylbutazone, mefenamic acid, flufenamic acid, oxyphenylbutazone or aminopyrine. Blood cholesterol and phospholipids were measured at 3--4 week intervals. After 12 weeks the animals were sacrificed and the severity of atherosclerosis in the thoracic aorta was measured. In separate experiments, rabbit platelets were incubated with each of the drugs individually and conversion of [14C]arachidonic acid to thromboxanes and related compounds was assayed. Inhibition of collagen and arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation by each drug was also measured. All drugs inhibited thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in varying degrees with flufenamate and aspirin being most and aminopyrine least effective. The pattern of metabolite formation from [14C]arachidonate was consistent with a block in the cyclooxygenase reaction. Phenylbutazone, flufenamic acid and oxyphenylbutazone produced significant reductions in atherosclerotic plaque formation without major changes in blood cholesterol levels or blood cholesterol--phospholipid ratios. Aspirin and aminopyrine were ineffective. The results indicate that the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs as inhibitors of thromboxane synthesis and platelet aggregation in vitro does not afford a sufficient predictive index of their anti-atherogenicity in vivo. The significance of these findings is discussed in terms of the possible involvement of cyclooxygenase derivatives in atherogenesis.", "PMID": 454516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11190", "title": "Decrease of 3-methylhistidine and increase of NG,NG-dimethylarginine in the urine of patients with muscular dystrophy.", "content": "The amounts of 3-methylhistidine, N epsilon,N epsilon-dimethyllysine, N epsilon, N epsilon, N epsilon-trimethyllysine, NG,NG-dimethylarginine, and NG,N'G-dimethylarginine were determined in the urine specimens of healthy subjects and patients of corresponding ages with Duchenne, limb-girdle, and congenital types of muscular dystrophy, and motor neuron diseases. The amount of excretion of 3-methylhistidine decreased and that of NG,NG-dimethylarginine increased significantly in Duchenne and limb-girdle types of muscular dystrophy, but not in diseases with neurogenic muscular atrophy. The decrease of 3-methylhistidine was observed consistently throughout the course of the Duchenne type of muscular dystrophy. The amounts of the other methylamino acids both in myogenic and neurogenic myopathies were not different from those in healthy subjects.", "contents": "Decrease of 3-methylhistidine and increase of NG,NG-dimethylarginine in the urine of patients with muscular dystrophy. The amounts of 3-methylhistidine, N epsilon,N epsilon-dimethyllysine, N epsilon, N epsilon, N epsilon-trimethyllysine, NG,NG-dimethylarginine, and NG,N'G-dimethylarginine were determined in the urine specimens of healthy subjects and patients of corresponding ages with Duchenne, limb-girdle, and congenital types of muscular dystrophy, and motor neuron diseases. The amount of excretion of 3-methylhistidine decreased and that of NG,NG-dimethylarginine increased significantly in Duchenne and limb-girdle types of muscular dystrophy, but not in diseases with neurogenic muscular atrophy. The decrease of 3-methylhistidine was observed consistently throughout the course of the Duchenne type of muscular dystrophy. The amounts of the other methylamino acids both in myogenic and neurogenic myopathies were not different from those in healthy subjects.", "PMID": 454517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11191", "title": "The effect of T3 and reverse T3 administration on muscle protein catabolism during fasting as measured by 3-methylhistidine excretion.", "content": "Since recent studies have indicated that measurement in urine of the amino acid, 3-methylhistidine, accurately reflects the extent of muscle catabolism, and because it has been suggested that thyroid hormones may influence muscle breakdown, especially during fasting, the effect of T3 and reverse T3 (rT3) administration on the excretion of 3-methylhistidine was examined in obese subjects during fasting. The mean (+/- SE) 3-methylhistidine excretion in patients fed an egg protein diet (devoid of meat protein) was 256 +/- 35 mumoles/day and decreased to 190 +/- 14 mumoles/day during fasting. T3 administration (100 microgram/day x 5 days) increased 3-methylhistidine excretion to 304 +/- 37 mumoles/day during its ingestion and to 485 +/- 46 mumoles/day in the T3 posttreatment interval. T3 doses of 10 microgram every 4 hr (q4h) for the first 6 days of fasting also appeared capable of increasing 3-mehis excretion whereas 5 microgram T3 q4h administered during the first 6 days of fasting did not increase 3-mehis excretion. Reverse T3 administration (80 microgram q6h) during fasting was associated with a mean 3-methylhistidine of 130 +/- 13 mumoles/day, a value no higher than in patients fasted alone. These observations suggest that: (1) skeletal muscle catabolism decreases during fasting: and (2) pathophysiologic doses of T3 (60 microgram/day or more), but not reverse T3, enhance muscle catabolism during fasting.", "contents": "The effect of T3 and reverse T3 administration on muscle protein catabolism during fasting as measured by 3-methylhistidine excretion. Since recent studies have indicated that measurement in urine of the amino acid, 3-methylhistidine, accurately reflects the extent of muscle catabolism, and because it has been suggested that thyroid hormones may influence muscle breakdown, especially during fasting, the effect of T3 and reverse T3 (rT3) administration on the excretion of 3-methylhistidine was examined in obese subjects during fasting. The mean (+/- SE) 3-methylhistidine excretion in patients fed an egg protein diet (devoid of meat protein) was 256 +/- 35 mumoles/day and decreased to 190 +/- 14 mumoles/day during fasting. T3 administration (100 microgram/day x 5 days) increased 3-methylhistidine excretion to 304 +/- 37 mumoles/day during its ingestion and to 485 +/- 46 mumoles/day in the T3 posttreatment interval. T3 doses of 10 microgram every 4 hr (q4h) for the first 6 days of fasting also appeared capable of increasing 3-mehis excretion whereas 5 microgram T3 q4h administered during the first 6 days of fasting did not increase 3-mehis excretion. Reverse T3 administration (80 microgram q6h) during fasting was associated with a mean 3-methylhistidine of 130 +/- 13 mumoles/day, a value no higher than in patients fasted alone. These observations suggest that: (1) skeletal muscle catabolism decreases during fasting: and (2) pathophysiologic doses of T3 (60 microgram/day or more), but not reverse T3, enhance muscle catabolism during fasting.", "PMID": 454518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11192", "title": "The relation between urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels and the ratio of tryptophan to other large neutral amino acids placed in the stomach.", "content": "We assayed 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in urine samples (3- or 6 1/2-hr collection) after individual rats received 6-8 ml of water, of amino acids in solution, or of glucose by stomach tube. Tryptophan (Trp) solutions caused dose-related increases in urinary 5-HIAA; these were blocked when animals received carbidopa, an inhibitor of peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. The concurrent administration of a large neutral amino acid (LNAA; valine or isoleucine) with oral Trp, in high doses probably sufficient to compete with Trp for transport into gut cells, blocked the Trp-induced rise in urinary 5-HIAA. Concurrent administration of glycine (not a LNAA) in equivalent doses did not. Pretreatment with pyridoxine blocked the Trp-induced rise in urinary 5-HIAA but not that in brain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5HT). These observations confirm the previous suggestion that while brain serotonin synthesis depends on the plasma Trp/LNAA ratio (which varies inversely with the proportion of protein to total calories in the diet), gut serotonin synthesis depends largely on the Trp/LNAA ratio in the dietary protein itself (and, probably, within the gut lumen postprandially). The range of molar Trp/LNAA ratios at which free LNAAs significantly diminish the effects of ingested Trp on gut serotonin synthesis (as reflected by urinary 5-HIAA) is similar to the range found in dietary proteins.", "contents": "The relation between urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels and the ratio of tryptophan to other large neutral amino acids placed in the stomach. We assayed 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in urine samples (3- or 6 1/2-hr collection) after individual rats received 6-8 ml of water, of amino acids in solution, or of glucose by stomach tube. Tryptophan (Trp) solutions caused dose-related increases in urinary 5-HIAA; these were blocked when animals received carbidopa, an inhibitor of peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. The concurrent administration of a large neutral amino acid (LNAA; valine or isoleucine) with oral Trp, in high doses probably sufficient to compete with Trp for transport into gut cells, blocked the Trp-induced rise in urinary 5-HIAA. Concurrent administration of glycine (not a LNAA) in equivalent doses did not. Pretreatment with pyridoxine blocked the Trp-induced rise in urinary 5-HIAA but not that in brain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5HT). These observations confirm the previous suggestion that while brain serotonin synthesis depends on the plasma Trp/LNAA ratio (which varies inversely with the proportion of protein to total calories in the diet), gut serotonin synthesis depends largely on the Trp/LNAA ratio in the dietary protein itself (and, probably, within the gut lumen postprandially). The range of molar Trp/LNAA ratios at which free LNAAs significantly diminish the effects of ingested Trp on gut serotonin synthesis (as reflected by urinary 5-HIAA) is similar to the range found in dietary proteins.", "PMID": 454519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11193", "title": "Effect of acute metabolic acidemia on renal electrolyte transport in man.", "content": "The effect of acute NH4C1-induced metabolic acidemia on renal electrolyte excretion was examined in nine healthy subjects during steady state water diuresis. Following oral NH4C1, venous pH and bicarbonate concentration declined significantly (p less than 0.01) while inulin and PAH clearances remained unchanged. Mean sodium excretion (UNaV) increased from 142 +/- 16 mueq/min (mean +/- SEM) to 310 +/- 49 mueq/min (p less than 0.01) at 8 hr without change in plasma aldosterone or renin levels. Urine flow remained unchanged while CH2O/(CH2O + CCl) declined significantly, suggesting that acute metabolic acidemia inhibits sodium transport in the distal nephron. Similar results were observed in two subjects with central diabetes insipidus. Three subjects restudied following the ingestion of an equivalent amount of chloride administered as NaCl, failed to demonstrate a significant rise in UNaV. UKV fell acutely from 91 +/- 13 to 45 +/- 5 mueq/min (p less than 0.001) despite an increase in serum potassium concentration. No change in plasma insulin was observed. UCaV rose from 66 +/- 15 to 143 +/- 18 microgram/min and fractional excretion of calcium increased from 0.55 +/- 0.13 to 1.24 +/- 0.21% (p less than 0.001). Total serum calcium fell slightly, but ionized calcium rose from 3.99 +/- 0.05 to 4.30 +/- 0.03 mg/dl (p less than 0.001). No change in nephrogenous cyclic (cAMP) excretion was observed. In conclusion, acute metabolic acidemia in man (1) inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron independent of changes in plasma aldosterone concentration, filtered chloride load, or volume expansion; (2) inhibits potassium excretion despite a rise in serum potassium concentration; and (3) inhibits tubular calcium reabsorption independetn of changes in parathyroid hormone (as reflected by urinary cAMP).", "contents": "Effect of acute metabolic acidemia on renal electrolyte transport in man. The effect of acute NH4C1-induced metabolic acidemia on renal electrolyte excretion was examined in nine healthy subjects during steady state water diuresis. Following oral NH4C1, venous pH and bicarbonate concentration declined significantly (p less than 0.01) while inulin and PAH clearances remained unchanged. Mean sodium excretion (UNaV) increased from 142 +/- 16 mueq/min (mean +/- SEM) to 310 +/- 49 mueq/min (p less than 0.01) at 8 hr without change in plasma aldosterone or renin levels. Urine flow remained unchanged while CH2O/(CH2O + CCl) declined significantly, suggesting that acute metabolic acidemia inhibits sodium transport in the distal nephron. Similar results were observed in two subjects with central diabetes insipidus. Three subjects restudied following the ingestion of an equivalent amount of chloride administered as NaCl, failed to demonstrate a significant rise in UNaV. UKV fell acutely from 91 +/- 13 to 45 +/- 5 mueq/min (p less than 0.001) despite an increase in serum potassium concentration. No change in plasma insulin was observed. UCaV rose from 66 +/- 15 to 143 +/- 18 microgram/min and fractional excretion of calcium increased from 0.55 +/- 0.13 to 1.24 +/- 0.21% (p less than 0.001). Total serum calcium fell slightly, but ionized calcium rose from 3.99 +/- 0.05 to 4.30 +/- 0.03 mg/dl (p less than 0.001). No change in nephrogenous cyclic (cAMP) excretion was observed. In conclusion, acute metabolic acidemia in man (1) inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron independent of changes in plasma aldosterone concentration, filtered chloride load, or volume expansion; (2) inhibits potassium excretion despite a rise in serum potassium concentration; and (3) inhibits tubular calcium reabsorption independetn of changes in parathyroid hormone (as reflected by urinary cAMP).", "PMID": 454520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11194", "title": "Cholesterol synthesis in isolated rat hepatocytes: effect of homologous and heterologous serum lipoproteins.", "content": "The present study investigated the effect of serum lipoproteins on sterol synthesis by isolated rat hepatocytes. These cells were maintained in culture medium for 24 hr and incubated for the same period of time with increasing concentrations of serum lipoproteins (5-150 microgram of lipoprotein-protein per ml) isolated from different animal species. The viability of the cells was ascertained by their ability to synthesize cholesterol and protein and to secrete serum proteins into the medium. Rat VLDL and LDL did not alter sterol synthesis, which was stimulated instead by HDL. Rat serum chylomicrons were also ineffective. Human LDL significantly reduced the synthesis of sterols from both acetate and tritiated water; this effect was also induced by human VLDL to a reduced extent. VLDL isolated from hypercholesterolemic rabbit (VLDLC) strongly inhibited sterol synthesis from acetate but not from mevalonate. Cholesteryl-ester-rich VLDL isolated from a patient with type III hyperlipidemia (type III VLDL) were more effective than normal VLDL in suppressing sterol synthesis from acetate. The implications of these findings are discussed with regard to the possible role of cholesteryl-ester-rich lipoproteins on the in vivo regulation of sterol synthesis in the liver.", "contents": "Cholesterol synthesis in isolated rat hepatocytes: effect of homologous and heterologous serum lipoproteins. The present study investigated the effect of serum lipoproteins on sterol synthesis by isolated rat hepatocytes. These cells were maintained in culture medium for 24 hr and incubated for the same period of time with increasing concentrations of serum lipoproteins (5-150 microgram of lipoprotein-protein per ml) isolated from different animal species. The viability of the cells was ascertained by their ability to synthesize cholesterol and protein and to secrete serum proteins into the medium. Rat VLDL and LDL did not alter sterol synthesis, which was stimulated instead by HDL. Rat serum chylomicrons were also ineffective. Human LDL significantly reduced the synthesis of sterols from both acetate and tritiated water; this effect was also induced by human VLDL to a reduced extent. VLDL isolated from hypercholesterolemic rabbit (VLDLC) strongly inhibited sterol synthesis from acetate but not from mevalonate. Cholesteryl-ester-rich VLDL isolated from a patient with type III hyperlipidemia (type III VLDL) were more effective than normal VLDL in suppressing sterol synthesis from acetate. The implications of these findings are discussed with regard to the possible role of cholesteryl-ester-rich lipoproteins on the in vivo regulation of sterol synthesis in the liver.", "PMID": 454521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11195", "title": "Participant evaluation of two alcohol education courses.", "content": "Two types of alcohol education courses were evaluated positively by drinking drivers (n = 40). A controlled drinking course appeared to be of greater personal relevance to participants than did the traditional education course.", "contents": "Participant evaluation of two alcohol education courses. Two types of alcohol education courses were evaluated positively by drinking drivers (n = 40). A controlled drinking course appeared to be of greater personal relevance to participants than did the traditional education course.", "PMID": 454523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11196", "title": "Treatment of handwriting problems utilizing EMG biofeedback training.", "content": "The effects of EMG biofeedback training on cursive handwriting were investigated for 4 girls and 5 boys in Grade 4. A significant reduction in EMG between the first baseline session and the last training session was obtained. Four of 5 characteristics of handwriting improved significantly. The need for carefully designed research comparing EMG biofeedback training and relaxation training was indicated. A self-control factor in handwriting was hypothesized.", "contents": "Treatment of handwriting problems utilizing EMG biofeedback training. The effects of EMG biofeedback training on cursive handwriting were investigated for 4 girls and 5 boys in Grade 4. A significant reduction in EMG between the first baseline session and the last training session was obtained. Four of 5 characteristics of handwriting improved significantly. The need for carefully designed research comparing EMG biofeedback training and relaxation training was indicated. A self-control factor in handwriting was hypothesized.", "PMID": 454524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11197", "title": "Differential effects of antioxidants, steroids and other compounds on benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity in various tissues of rat.", "content": "Antioxidants were found to inhibit the mixed-function oxidation of benzo(a)pyrene in several tissues of untreated and 3-methylcholanthrene-pretreated rats. The enzyme systems in the liver, kidney and stomach were much more susceptible to inhibition than those in the lung, adrenal, colon and small intestine. In all tissues except the stomach it was found that 3-methylcholanthrene pretreatment led to a decrease in inhibition of benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity. It is suggested that antioxidants exert their protective effect against cancer by inhibiting the formation of carcinogenic metabolites. Of the various steroids tested, only 17 beta-oestradiol and oestrone were significantly inhibitory in most tissues. Cholesterol was found to increase benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity in the gastrointestinal tract.", "contents": "Differential effects of antioxidants, steroids and other compounds on benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity in various tissues of rat. Antioxidants were found to inhibit the mixed-function oxidation of benzo(a)pyrene in several tissues of untreated and 3-methylcholanthrene-pretreated rats. The enzyme systems in the liver, kidney and stomach were much more susceptible to inhibition than those in the lung, adrenal, colon and small intestine. In all tissues except the stomach it was found that 3-methylcholanthrene pretreatment led to a decrease in inhibition of benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity. It is suggested that antioxidants exert their protective effect against cancer by inhibiting the formation of carcinogenic metabolites. Of the various steroids tested, only 17 beta-oestradiol and oestrone were significantly inhibitory in most tissues. Cholesterol was found to increase benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase activity in the gastrointestinal tract.", "PMID": 454558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11198", "title": "Peripheral electrophysiological parameters in mice treated with misonidazole.", "content": "The clinical use of the radiosensitizer misonidazole may be limited by the incidence of peripheral neuropathy reported following total doses in excess of 18 g. A recent report noted a decrease in nerve conduction velocity following a single i.p. injection of 1 mg/g misonidazole in mice. The present study was unable to confirm such changes when nerve conduction velocity measurements were made in situ or in isolated sural, tibial or median nerves of mice. Other electrophysiological parameters such as threshold, strength-duration curves, refractory time or the ability to carry high-frequency stimulation also showed no change. However, it was noted that a single administration of the radio-sensitizer produced a marked decrease in body temperature which persisted for at least 2 h after the elimination of the drug from the blood serum. The physiological response of reduction of body temperature may protect the mouse against the effect of the toxic chemical species involved in the induction of neurotoxicity.", "contents": "Peripheral electrophysiological parameters in mice treated with misonidazole. The clinical use of the radiosensitizer misonidazole may be limited by the incidence of peripheral neuropathy reported following total doses in excess of 18 g. A recent report noted a decrease in nerve conduction velocity following a single i.p. injection of 1 mg/g misonidazole in mice. The present study was unable to confirm such changes when nerve conduction velocity measurements were made in situ or in isolated sural, tibial or median nerves of mice. Other electrophysiological parameters such as threshold, strength-duration curves, refractory time or the ability to carry high-frequency stimulation also showed no change. However, it was noted that a single administration of the radio-sensitizer produced a marked decrease in body temperature which persisted for at least 2 h after the elimination of the drug from the blood serum. The physiological response of reduction of body temperature may protect the mouse against the effect of the toxic chemical species involved in the induction of neurotoxicity.", "PMID": 454559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11199", "title": "Histological grade and other prognostic factors in relation to survival of patients with breast cancer.", "content": "Records of 3085 patients registered with breast cancer at the Mersey Regional Cancer Registry have been analysed to evaluate the relative importance of possible prognostic factors. In a subgroup of 1759 patients, clinical stage and histological grade are shown to be strongly related to survival after treatment. In addition histological grade is related to the distribution of times to death after treatment. The results of this and 3 other studies have implications for the design and analysis of clinical trials in the primary treatment of breast cancer.", "contents": "Histological grade and other prognostic factors in relation to survival of patients with breast cancer. Records of 3085 patients registered with breast cancer at the Mersey Regional Cancer Registry have been analysed to evaluate the relative importance of possible prognostic factors. In a subgroup of 1759 patients, clinical stage and histological grade are shown to be strongly related to survival after treatment. In addition histological grade is related to the distribution of times to death after treatment. The results of this and 3 other studies have implications for the design and analysis of clinical trials in the primary treatment of breast cancer.", "PMID": 454563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11200", "title": "Subcutaneous morphoea: a clinical study of sixteen cases.", "content": "Sixteen patients had biopsy-proved inflammatory sclerosis of the panniculus or fascia, which usually was seen in a generalized distribution. Although the sclerosis involved the digits of five patients, it was the result of centrifugal spread of the sclerosis and was not accompanied by ulcers, calcinosis, distal phalangeal resorption or telangiectasia. Four patients may have had digital vasopasm in the extremities involved in the sclerotic process. Five patients also had cutaneous lesions of dermal morphoea or lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. Four patients had a reduced carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, and one of these had roentgenographic evidence of pulmonary fibrosis. In three patients, oesophageal motility or barium swallow studies showed evidence of sclerodermatous changes. The sclerotic process was a contributory cause of the death of one patient. Five patients had peripheral eosinophilia. Six patients seemed to have responded to anti-inflammatory agents. We believe that subcutaneous morphoea is generally more inflammatory than generalized morphoea of the dermal type and may be more likely to progress to mild systemic sclerosis. We suggest that response of subcutaneous morphoea to anti-inflammatory agents is simply a reflection of the degree of inflammation present.", "contents": "Subcutaneous morphoea: a clinical study of sixteen cases. Sixteen patients had biopsy-proved inflammatory sclerosis of the panniculus or fascia, which usually was seen in a generalized distribution. Although the sclerosis involved the digits of five patients, it was the result of centrifugal spread of the sclerosis and was not accompanied by ulcers, calcinosis, distal phalangeal resorption or telangiectasia. Four patients may have had digital vasopasm in the extremities involved in the sclerotic process. Five patients also had cutaneous lesions of dermal morphoea or lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. Four patients had a reduced carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, and one of these had roentgenographic evidence of pulmonary fibrosis. In three patients, oesophageal motility or barium swallow studies showed evidence of sclerodermatous changes. The sclerotic process was a contributory cause of the death of one patient. Five patients had peripheral eosinophilia. Six patients seemed to have responded to anti-inflammatory agents. We believe that subcutaneous morphoea is generally more inflammatory than generalized morphoea of the dermal type and may be more likely to progress to mild systemic sclerosis. We suggest that response of subcutaneous morphoea to anti-inflammatory agents is simply a reflection of the degree of inflammation present.", "PMID": 454564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11201", "title": "The Shulman syndrome: report of a further case.", "content": "A 53-year-old woman developed swelling of her hands after strenuous sport. Soon her feet became affected and the swelling spread up the arms and legs making arm movement and walking difficult. No Raynaud's phenomenon appeared or other features of systemic sclerosis. There was eosinophilia and hypergammaglobulinaemia in the peripheral blood. Histological examination of the skin showed an increase in the collagen bundles in the dermis extending down to the adipose tissue. The fascia showed dense fibrous tissue with a perivascular infiltrate of lymphocytes, a few plasma cells and eosinophils. Immunohistology of the skin and fascia were negative for IgA, IgG, IgM, C3, CIq and fibrin. After 4 weeks of prednisolone 40 mg daily there was a great improvement. This continued with further corticosteroid therapy.", "contents": "The Shulman syndrome: report of a further case. A 53-year-old woman developed swelling of her hands after strenuous sport. Soon her feet became affected and the swelling spread up the arms and legs making arm movement and walking difficult. No Raynaud's phenomenon appeared or other features of systemic sclerosis. There was eosinophilia and hypergammaglobulinaemia in the peripheral blood. Histological examination of the skin showed an increase in the collagen bundles in the dermis extending down to the adipose tissue. The fascia showed dense fibrous tissue with a perivascular infiltrate of lymphocytes, a few plasma cells and eosinophils. Immunohistology of the skin and fascia were negative for IgA, IgG, IgM, C3, CIq and fibrin. After 4 weeks of prednisolone 40 mg daily there was a great improvement. This continued with further corticosteroid therapy.", "PMID": 454565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11202", "title": "The effect of corticosteroids on in vitro endotoxin-induced microclots.", "content": "The in vitro endotoxin-induced fibrin microclots could be completely inhibited in blood by treating the patient with an oral dose of 30--60 mg prednisone 24 h before drawing the blood sample. When added to 100 ml blood in vitro, the minimal inhibiting dose of corticosteroid is 0.004 mg betamethasone or 0.5 mg hydrocortisone.", "contents": "The effect of corticosteroids on in vitro endotoxin-induced microclots. The in vitro endotoxin-induced fibrin microclots could be completely inhibited in blood by treating the patient with an oral dose of 30--60 mg prednisone 24 h before drawing the blood sample. When added to 100 ml blood in vitro, the minimal inhibiting dose of corticosteroid is 0.004 mg betamethasone or 0.5 mg hydrocortisone.", "PMID": 454566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11203", "title": "Fibrous proteins of normal and abnormal human epidermis.", "content": "Keratin proteins of human epidermis have been isolated from normal and abnormal tissues. The normal proteins whether removed from living layers (prekeratin) or from the stratum corneum (keratin) are shown to consist of three chains, molecular weights 65,000 (A), 60,000 (B) and 52,000 (C). When compared with the epidermal proteins isolated from abnormal tissues, differences can be detected in the electrophoretic pattern of the subunits. In general, relative amounts of the individual chains are altered and in specific cases or two of the polypeptides found normally are missing. All the alpha-fibrous proteins extracted are found to be very similar in amino acid composition.", "contents": "Fibrous proteins of normal and abnormal human epidermis. Keratin proteins of human epidermis have been isolated from normal and abnormal tissues. The normal proteins whether removed from living layers (prekeratin) or from the stratum corneum (keratin) are shown to consist of three chains, molecular weights 65,000 (A), 60,000 (B) and 52,000 (C). When compared with the epidermal proteins isolated from abnormal tissues, differences can be detected in the electrophoretic pattern of the subunits. In general, relative amounts of the individual chains are altered and in specific cases or two of the polypeptides found normally are missing. All the alpha-fibrous proteins extracted are found to be very similar in amino acid composition.", "PMID": 454567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11204", "title": "Keratosis pilaris atrophicans faciei (ulerythema ophryogenes): a cutaneous marker in the Noonan syndrome.", "content": "Five cases are reported of Noonan's syndrome, all of which presented keratosis pilaris atrophicans faciei (ulerythema ophryogenes). This dermatosis fulfils the criteria mentioned by Noonan & Ehmke (1963) as a pointer for the investigation of cardiac anomalies, especially of the pulmonary artery.", "contents": "Keratosis pilaris atrophicans faciei (ulerythema ophryogenes): a cutaneous marker in the Noonan syndrome. Five cases are reported of Noonan's syndrome, all of which presented keratosis pilaris atrophicans faciei (ulerythema ophryogenes). This dermatosis fulfils the criteria mentioned by Noonan & Ehmke (1963) as a pointer for the investigation of cardiac anomalies, especially of the pulmonary artery.", "PMID": 454568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11205", "title": "Studies on dapsone induced haemolytic anaemia. I. Methaemoglobin production and G-6-PD activity in correlation with dapsone dosage.", "content": "The present study was undertaken on the hypothesis that methaemoglobin production and haemolytic anaemia following dapsone administration could be ascribed to an impairment of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-enzymatic activity. Analysis of the kinetic parameters of the G-6-PD (Vmax and KM) was performed in ten patients, normal with respect to G-6-PD, suffering from various dermatoses. It was concluded that haemolytic anaemia after dapsone therapy is not due to a functional impairment of the enzyme. The close relationship between dapsone dosage, methaemoglobin production and anaemia make reasonable the hypothesis that a toxic dapsone derivative (DDS-NHOH) could be responsible for the methaemoglobin formation and the haemolytic anaemia.", "contents": "Studies on dapsone induced haemolytic anaemia. I. Methaemoglobin production and G-6-PD activity in correlation with dapsone dosage. The present study was undertaken on the hypothesis that methaemoglobin production and haemolytic anaemia following dapsone administration could be ascribed to an impairment of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-enzymatic activity. Analysis of the kinetic parameters of the G-6-PD (Vmax and KM) was performed in ten patients, normal with respect to G-6-PD, suffering from various dermatoses. It was concluded that haemolytic anaemia after dapsone therapy is not due to a functional impairment of the enzyme. The close relationship between dapsone dosage, methaemoglobin production and anaemia make reasonable the hypothesis that a toxic dapsone derivative (DDS-NHOH) could be responsible for the methaemoglobin formation and the haemolytic anaemia.", "PMID": 454569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11206", "title": "Cutaneous arteritis with superior vena cava obstruction.", "content": "Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction may occur in several disorders (Urschel & Paulson, 1966) and may be associated with arteritis in Beh\u00e7et's disease (Chajek & Farinaru, 1975). We report a man who had arteritis and SVC obstruction without any of the known causes.", "contents": "Cutaneous arteritis with superior vena cava obstruction. Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction may occur in several disorders (Urschel & Paulson, 1966) and may be associated with arteritis in Beh\u00e7et's disease (Chajek & Farinaru, 1975). We report a man who had arteritis and SVC obstruction without any of the known causes.", "PMID": 454570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11207", "title": "Lichenoid tattoo reactions.", "content": "Two young men, tattooed early in 1977 by the same London tattooist, both rapidly developed lichenoid lesions confined entirely to the red dyed areas.", "contents": "Lichenoid tattoo reactions. Two young men, tattooed early in 1977 by the same London tattooist, both rapidly developed lichenoid lesions confined entirely to the red dyed areas.", "PMID": 454571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11208", "title": "Pyogenic granuloma following the trauma of nose-boring.", "content": "The occurrence of pyogenic granuloma following nose-boring for the wearing of ornaments is recorded. Boring of the nose is seen in 60--70% of women in our skin out-patient department and pyogenic granuloma occurs in 33% of such women. The condition is not encountered after boring of the ear lobes, and this suggests that the tissues of the alae nasi are abnormally susceptible to this reaction.", "contents": "Pyogenic granuloma following the trauma of nose-boring. The occurrence of pyogenic granuloma following nose-boring for the wearing of ornaments is recorded. Boring of the nose is seen in 60--70% of women in our skin out-patient department and pyogenic granuloma occurs in 33% of such women. The condition is not encountered after boring of the ear lobes, and this suggests that the tissues of the alae nasi are abnormally susceptible to this reaction.", "PMID": 454572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11209", "title": "Mass spectrometric determination of hydroxylamine photooxidation by illuminated chloroplasts.", "content": "A mass spectrometer with a special inlet was used to directly monitor the products evolved when hydroxylamine-treated chloroplasts were exposed to short saturating light flashes. We found that: 1. Molecular dinitrogen was the sole product of hydroxylamine photooxidation, and was formed in an amount equal to twice the O2 evolved during H2O photooxidation. 2. This reaction was driven by Photosystem II, and did not involve Photo-system I-generated superoxide or peroxide. 3. In the presence of 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethyl urea, N2 was evolved only on the first flash. These results suggested that N2 was formed by the combination of two single-electron oxidation products of hydroxylamine.", "contents": "Mass spectrometric determination of hydroxylamine photooxidation by illuminated chloroplasts. A mass spectrometer with a special inlet was used to directly monitor the products evolved when hydroxylamine-treated chloroplasts were exposed to short saturating light flashes. We found that: 1. Molecular dinitrogen was the sole product of hydroxylamine photooxidation, and was formed in an amount equal to twice the O2 evolved during H2O photooxidation. 2. This reaction was driven by Photosystem II, and did not involve Photo-system I-generated superoxide or peroxide. 3. In the presence of 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethyl urea, N2 was evolved only on the first flash. These results suggested that N2 was formed by the combination of two single-electron oxidation products of hydroxylamine.", "PMID": 454576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11210", "title": "H2O2 destruction by ascorbate-dependent systems from chloroplasts.", "content": "Washed lamellae from isolated spinach chloroplasts exhibited peroxidative activity with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine or ascorbate as electron donors. By heat treatment or by incubation of the chloroplasts with pronase a heat-labile enzymic activity (system A) and a heat-stable non-enzymic peroxidative activity (system B) could be differentiated. System A is membrane-bound, reacts with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine and with ascorbate as electron donors, shows a sharp pH optimum between 7.5 and 8.0 with both substrates and is inhibited competitively by cyanide. The heat-stable factor can be extracted from the chloroplast lamellae by heat treatment, reacts only with ascorbate as electron donor, shows increasing activity with higher pH values but no optimum and is not inhibited by cyanide. Both peroxidative systems in connection with a relatively high concentration of ascorbate in chloroplasts should represent an important tool for the detoxification of H2O2 which is produced in these organelles by photosynthetic O2 reduction.", "contents": "H2O2 destruction by ascorbate-dependent systems from chloroplasts. Washed lamellae from isolated spinach chloroplasts exhibited peroxidative activity with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine or ascorbate as electron donors. By heat treatment or by incubation of the chloroplasts with pronase a heat-labile enzymic activity (system A) and a heat-stable non-enzymic peroxidative activity (system B) could be differentiated. System A is membrane-bound, reacts with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine and with ascorbate as electron donors, shows a sharp pH optimum between 7.5 and 8.0 with both substrates and is inhibited competitively by cyanide. The heat-stable factor can be extracted from the chloroplast lamellae by heat treatment, reacts only with ascorbate as electron donor, shows increasing activity with higher pH values but no optimum and is not inhibited by cyanide. Both peroxidative systems in connection with a relatively high concentration of ascorbate in chloroplasts should represent an important tool for the detoxification of H2O2 which is produced in these organelles by photosynthetic O2 reduction.", "PMID": 454577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11211", "title": "Resolution of the light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-protein of vicia faba chloroplasts into two different chlorophyll-protein complexes.", "content": "Thylakoids of Vicia faba chloroplasts disaggregated by sodium dodecyl sulfate were separated by means of different electrophoretic systems. Under the conditions of a high resolving gel system the chlorophyll containing zone previously termed chlorophyll-protein complex II or light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-protein was found to be inhomogeneous. It represents a mixture of two distinct chlorophyll-proteins characterized by different spectral properties and different apoproteins. One chlorophyll-protein exhibits a chlorophyll a/b ratio of 0.9 and is associated with polypetides of 24,000 and 23,000 daltons. The 24,000 dalton band is proved to bind chlorophyll and has a light-harvesting function. The function of the 23,000 dalton band is unknown. The second chlorophyll-protein has a chlorophyll a/b ratio of 2.1 and an additional absorption maximum in the position of 637 nm. It is associated with only one polypeptide which has an apparent molecular weight of 23,000. The two 23,000 dalton polypeptides occurring in both complexes are not identical.", "contents": "Resolution of the light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-protein of vicia faba chloroplasts into two different chlorophyll-protein complexes. Thylakoids of Vicia faba chloroplasts disaggregated by sodium dodecyl sulfate were separated by means of different electrophoretic systems. Under the conditions of a high resolving gel system the chlorophyll containing zone previously termed chlorophyll-protein complex II or light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-protein was found to be inhomogeneous. It represents a mixture of two distinct chlorophyll-proteins characterized by different spectral properties and different apoproteins. One chlorophyll-protein exhibits a chlorophyll a/b ratio of 0.9 and is associated with polypetides of 24,000 and 23,000 daltons. The 24,000 dalton band is proved to bind chlorophyll and has a light-harvesting function. The function of the 23,000 dalton band is unknown. The second chlorophyll-protein has a chlorophyll a/b ratio of 2.1 and an additional absorption maximum in the position of 637 nm. It is associated with only one polypeptide which has an apparent molecular weight of 23,000. The two 23,000 dalton polypeptides occurring in both complexes are not identical.", "PMID": 454578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11212", "title": "A chloroplast membrane lacking photosystem II. Thylakoid stacking in the absence of the photosystem II particle.", "content": "The polypeptide composition and membrane structure of a variegated mutant of tobacco have been investigated. The pale green mutant leaf regions contain chloroplasts in which the amount of membrane stacking has been reduced (although not totally eliminated). The mutant membranes are almost totally deficient in Photosystem II when compared to wild-type chloroplast membranes, but still show near-normal levels of Photosystem I activity. The pattern of membrane polypeptides separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis shows several differences between mutant and wild-type membranes, although the major chlorophyll-protein complexes described in many other plant species are present in both mutant and wild-type samples. Freeze-fracture analysis of the internal structure of these photosynthetic membranes shows that the Photosystem II-deficient membranes lack the characteristic large particle associated with the E fracture face of the thylakoid. These membranes also lack a tetramer-like particle visible on the inner (ES) surface of the membrane. The other characteristics of the photosynthetic membrane, including the small particles observed on the P fracture faces in both stacked and unstacked regions, and the characteristic changes in the background matrix of the E fracture face which accompany thylakoid stacking, are unaltered in the mutant. From these and other observations we conclude that the large (EF and ES) particle represents an amalgam of many components comprising the Photosystem II reaction complex, that the absence of one or more of its components may prevent the structure from assembling, and that in its absence, Photosystem II activity cannot be observed.", "contents": "A chloroplast membrane lacking photosystem II. Thylakoid stacking in the absence of the photosystem II particle. The polypeptide composition and membrane structure of a variegated mutant of tobacco have been investigated. The pale green mutant leaf regions contain chloroplasts in which the amount of membrane stacking has been reduced (although not totally eliminated). The mutant membranes are almost totally deficient in Photosystem II when compared to wild-type chloroplast membranes, but still show near-normal levels of Photosystem I activity. The pattern of membrane polypeptides separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis shows several differences between mutant and wild-type membranes, although the major chlorophyll-protein complexes described in many other plant species are present in both mutant and wild-type samples. Freeze-fracture analysis of the internal structure of these photosynthetic membranes shows that the Photosystem II-deficient membranes lack the characteristic large particle associated with the E fracture face of the thylakoid. These membranes also lack a tetramer-like particle visible on the inner (ES) surface of the membrane. The other characteristics of the photosynthetic membrane, including the small particles observed on the P fracture faces in both stacked and unstacked regions, and the characteristic changes in the background matrix of the E fracture face which accompany thylakoid stacking, are unaltered in the mutant. From these and other observations we conclude that the large (EF and ES) particle represents an amalgam of many components comprising the Photosystem II reaction complex, that the absence of one or more of its components may prevent the structure from assembling, and that in its absence, Photosystem II activity cannot be observed.", "PMID": 454579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11213", "title": "Studies of the ADP/ATP carrier of mitochondria with fluorescent ADP analogue formycin diphosphate.", "content": "The ADP/ATP carrier was studied by a fluorescent substrate, formycin diphosphate which is the only fluorescent ADP analogue to bind. Its low quantum yield, short decay time and spectral overlap with tryptophan has as yet prevented its wider use. By incorporating fluorescent acceptors of formycin diphosphate fluorescence, anthracene-maleimide and vinylanthracene, into the membrane, these difficulties were circumvented. Only bound formycin diphosphate transfers energy to the probes so that the secondary emission of these probes is a measure for membrane-bound formycin diphosphate. The fluorescent transfer is inhibited by ADP, bongkrekate and carboxyatractylate whether added before or after incubation of formycin diphosphate showing that only binding to the adenine nucleotide carrier is measured. It also shows directly that the earlier demonstrated ADP fixation by bongkrekate is indeed a displacement into the matrix. The fluorescence decay time of the bound formycin diphosphate is measured as 1.95 ns compared to 0.95 ns of the free formycin diphosphate, indicating that formycin diphosphate is bound at the carrier in a non-polar environment. The depolarization decay time was found to be larger than 15 ns, indicating that carrier-bound formycin diphosphate is immobile within this time period.", "contents": "Studies of the ADP/ATP carrier of mitochondria with fluorescent ADP analogue formycin diphosphate. The ADP/ATP carrier was studied by a fluorescent substrate, formycin diphosphate which is the only fluorescent ADP analogue to bind. Its low quantum yield, short decay time and spectral overlap with tryptophan has as yet prevented its wider use. By incorporating fluorescent acceptors of formycin diphosphate fluorescence, anthracene-maleimide and vinylanthracene, into the membrane, these difficulties were circumvented. Only bound formycin diphosphate transfers energy to the probes so that the secondary emission of these probes is a measure for membrane-bound formycin diphosphate. The fluorescent transfer is inhibited by ADP, bongkrekate and carboxyatractylate whether added before or after incubation of formycin diphosphate showing that only binding to the adenine nucleotide carrier is measured. It also shows directly that the earlier demonstrated ADP fixation by bongkrekate is indeed a displacement into the matrix. The fluorescence decay time of the bound formycin diphosphate is measured as 1.95 ns compared to 0.95 ns of the free formycin diphosphate, indicating that formycin diphosphate is bound at the carrier in a non-polar environment. The depolarization decay time was found to be larger than 15 ns, indicating that carrier-bound formycin diphosphate is immobile within this time period.", "PMID": 454580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11214", "title": "Lipid and salt effects on carbocyanine dye-induced photo-voltages in bilayer membranes.", "content": "Voltage transients induced by flash illumination of bilayer membranes with sorbed dye, 3,3' -dimethyl-2,2' -oxacarbocyanine chloride (diO-C1-3-CI), vary with membrane lipid composition and aqueous solution salt concentration. The voltage transients are probably induced by physical movements of sorbed dye molecules following photo-isomerization. Increased salt (NaCl and NaBr) concentrations in the aqueous solutions reduced the photo-voltage amplitudes by reducing the amount of dye sorbed to the membranes, and by decreasing the effective membrane thickness. The photo-voltage risetimes and falltimes varied systematically with salt concentration and membrane lipid composition, reflecting structural changes in the membrane's surface layer.", "contents": "Lipid and salt effects on carbocyanine dye-induced photo-voltages in bilayer membranes. Voltage transients induced by flash illumination of bilayer membranes with sorbed dye, 3,3' -dimethyl-2,2' -oxacarbocyanine chloride (diO-C1-3-CI), vary with membrane lipid composition and aqueous solution salt concentration. The voltage transients are probably induced by physical movements of sorbed dye molecules following photo-isomerization. Increased salt (NaCl and NaBr) concentrations in the aqueous solutions reduced the photo-voltage amplitudes by reducing the amount of dye sorbed to the membranes, and by decreasing the effective membrane thickness. The photo-voltage risetimes and falltimes varied systematically with salt concentration and membrane lipid composition, reflecting structural changes in the membrane's surface layer.", "PMID": 454581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11215", "title": "High resolution two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of the proteins and glycoproteins of human blood platelets and platelet membranes.", "content": "The proteins and glycoproteins of human blood platelets and platelet membranes in both the reduced and the unreduced states have been analysed by isoelectric focusing and sodium dodecyl sulphate-discontinuosus polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in a two-dimensional technique. Gels which had been stained with periodic acid-Schiff's reagent could be counter-stained with Coomassie Brilliant Blue, simplifying the recognition of components which stain with both reagents. The major glycoproteins and some of the proteins have been identified and the characteristics of the membrance and of the whole platelet components established in this system.", "contents": "High resolution two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of the proteins and glycoproteins of human blood platelets and platelet membranes. The proteins and glycoproteins of human blood platelets and platelet membranes in both the reduced and the unreduced states have been analysed by isoelectric focusing and sodium dodecyl sulphate-discontinuosus polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in a two-dimensional technique. Gels which had been stained with periodic acid-Schiff's reagent could be counter-stained with Coomassie Brilliant Blue, simplifying the recognition of components which stain with both reagents. The major glycoproteins and some of the proteins have been identified and the characteristics of the membrance and of the whole platelet components established in this system.", "PMID": 454582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11216", "title": "A comparison of the inhibitory potency of reversibly acting inhibitors of anion transport on chloride and sulfate movements across the human red cell membrane.", "content": "The effects of a variety of chemically diverse, reversibly acting inhibitors have been measured on both Cl- and SO2-4 equilibrium exchange across the human red cell membrane. The measurements were carried out under the same conditions (pH 6.3, 8 degrees C) and in the same medium for both the Cl- and SO2-4 tracer fluxes. Under these conditions the rate constant for Cl--Cl- exchange is about 20,000 times larger than that for SO2-4--SO2-4 exchange. Despite this large difference in the rates of transport of the two anions, eight different reversibly acting inhibitors have virtually the same effect on the Cl- and SO2-4 transport. The proteolytic enzyme papain also has the same inhibitory effect on both the Cl- and SO2-4 self-exchange. In addition, the slowly penetrating disulfonate 2-(4'-aminophenyl)-6-methylbenzenethiazol-3',7-disulfonic acid (APMB) is 5-fold more effective from the outer than from the inner membrane surface in inhibiting both Cl- and SO2-4 self-exchange. We interpret these results as evidence that the rapidly penetrating monovalent anion Cl- and the slowly penetrating divalent anion SO2-4 are transported by the same system.", "contents": "A comparison of the inhibitory potency of reversibly acting inhibitors of anion transport on chloride and sulfate movements across the human red cell membrane. The effects of a variety of chemically diverse, reversibly acting inhibitors have been measured on both Cl- and SO2-4 equilibrium exchange across the human red cell membrane. The measurements were carried out under the same conditions (pH 6.3, 8 degrees C) and in the same medium for both the Cl- and SO2-4 tracer fluxes. Under these conditions the rate constant for Cl--Cl- exchange is about 20,000 times larger than that for SO2-4--SO2-4 exchange. Despite this large difference in the rates of transport of the two anions, eight different reversibly acting inhibitors have virtually the same effect on the Cl- and SO2-4 transport. The proteolytic enzyme papain also has the same inhibitory effect on both the Cl- and SO2-4 self-exchange. In addition, the slowly penetrating disulfonate 2-(4'-aminophenyl)-6-methylbenzenethiazol-3',7-disulfonic acid (APMB) is 5-fold more effective from the outer than from the inner membrane surface in inhibiting both Cl- and SO2-4 self-exchange. We interpret these results as evidence that the rapidly penetrating monovalent anion Cl- and the slowly penetrating divalent anion SO2-4 are transported by the same system.", "PMID": 454583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11217", "title": "Effect of the sodium/potassium ratio on glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase interaction with red cell vesicles.", "content": "Binding of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, the membrane protein known as Band 6, causes shifts in the 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum of the substrate (Fossel, E.T. and Solomon, A.K (1977) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 464, 82--92). We have studied the resonance shifts produced by varying the sodium/potassium ratio, at constant ionic strength, in order to examine the relationship between the cation transport system and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Alteration of the potassium concentration at the extracellular face of the vesicle affects the conformation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase at the cytoplasmic face, thus showing that a conformation changed induced by a change in extracellular potassium can be transmitted across the membrane. Alterations of the sodium concentration at the cytoplasmic face also affect the enzyme conformation, whereas sodium changes at the extracellular face are without effect. In contrast, there is no sidedness difference in the effect of potassium concentrations. The half-values for these effects are like those for activation of the red cell (Na4 + K+)-ATPase. We have also produced ionic concentration gradients across the vesicle similar to those Glynn and Lew (1970) J. Physiol. London 207, 393--402) found to be effective in running the cation pump backwards to produce adenosine triphosphate in the human red cell. The sodium/potassium concentration dependence of this process in red cells is mimicked by 31P resonance shifts in the (glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate/glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase/inside out vesicle) system. These experiments provide strong support for the existence of a functional linkage between the membrane (Na+ + K+)-ATPase and the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase at the cytoplasmic face.", "contents": "Effect of the sodium/potassium ratio on glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase interaction with red cell vesicles. Binding of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, the membrane protein known as Band 6, causes shifts in the 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum of the substrate (Fossel, E.T. and Solomon, A.K (1977) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 464, 82--92). We have studied the resonance shifts produced by varying the sodium/potassium ratio, at constant ionic strength, in order to examine the relationship between the cation transport system and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Alteration of the potassium concentration at the extracellular face of the vesicle affects the conformation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase at the cytoplasmic face, thus showing that a conformation changed induced by a change in extracellular potassium can be transmitted across the membrane. Alterations of the sodium concentration at the cytoplasmic face also affect the enzyme conformation, whereas sodium changes at the extracellular face are without effect. In contrast, there is no sidedness difference in the effect of potassium concentrations. The half-values for these effects are like those for activation of the red cell (Na4 + K+)-ATPase. We have also produced ionic concentration gradients across the vesicle similar to those Glynn and Lew (1970) J. Physiol. London 207, 393--402) found to be effective in running the cation pump backwards to produce adenosine triphosphate in the human red cell. The sodium/potassium concentration dependence of this process in red cells is mimicked by 31P resonance shifts in the (glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate/glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase/inside out vesicle) system. These experiments provide strong support for the existence of a functional linkage between the membrane (Na+ + K+)-ATPase and the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase at the cytoplasmic face.", "PMID": 454584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11218", "title": "Intestinal handling of two tetrapeptides by rodent small intestine in vitro.", "content": "Uptake of free Leu and Ala and uptake of these amino acids from the tetrapeptides Leu-Gly-Gly-Gly and Ala-Gly-Gly-Gly has been studied in rings of everted rodent jejunum in vitro. When mediated uptake of free Leu was virtually saturated addition of Leu-Gly-Gly-Gly gave no significant increase in uptake of Leu. Uptake of Leu and of Ala from the tetrapeptides was strongly inhibited by Met, as was uptake of these amino acids from free solution. The results did not suggest that either tetrapeptide was taken up intact by the jejunum.", "contents": "Intestinal handling of two tetrapeptides by rodent small intestine in vitro. Uptake of free Leu and Ala and uptake of these amino acids from the tetrapeptides Leu-Gly-Gly-Gly and Ala-Gly-Gly-Gly has been studied in rings of everted rodent jejunum in vitro. When mediated uptake of free Leu was virtually saturated addition of Leu-Gly-Gly-Gly gave no significant increase in uptake of Leu. Uptake of Leu and of Ala from the tetrapeptides was strongly inhibited by Met, as was uptake of these amino acids from free solution. The results did not suggest that either tetrapeptide was taken up intact by the jejunum.", "PMID": 454585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11219", "title": "Study of electrophoretic mobility of cellular membranes isolated from rat liver.", "content": "Plasma membranes as well as mitochondrial and microsomal subfractions were subjected to zone electrophoresis. Treatment with neuraminidase, phospholipase A or C does not influence the movement of plasma membranes and smooth microsomes. Trypsin increases mobility of plasma membranes and smooth by about 20%, and further treatment with phospholipase C decreases mobility of plasma membranes, total smooth and smooth I microsomes, which, however, is not the case with smooth II microsomes. Low concentrations of trypsin also solubilize enzyme proteins of smooth microsomes from phenobarbital-treated rat liver, but electrophoretic mobility is not increased, indicating structural differences in induced membranes. The mobility of the outer and inner mitochondrial membranes is significantly higher than that of submitochondrial particles. For microsomes the negative surface charge density occurs in the decreasing order of: ribosomes--rough--smooth I--smooth II. A 10 mM CsCl gradient decreases the mobility of rough microsomes by 40% and of ribosomes by 20% but has no effect on total smooth micromes. On the other hand, 5mM MgCl2 decreased the mobility of all three fractions. EDTA-treated rough and EDTA-treated smooth microsomes have the same electrophoretic mobilities. However, the mobilities of non-treated rough and smooth microsomes differ significantly from each other.", "contents": "Study of electrophoretic mobility of cellular membranes isolated from rat liver. Plasma membranes as well as mitochondrial and microsomal subfractions were subjected to zone electrophoresis. Treatment with neuraminidase, phospholipase A or C does not influence the movement of plasma membranes and smooth microsomes. Trypsin increases mobility of plasma membranes and smooth by about 20%, and further treatment with phospholipase C decreases mobility of plasma membranes, total smooth and smooth I microsomes, which, however, is not the case with smooth II microsomes. Low concentrations of trypsin also solubilize enzyme proteins of smooth microsomes from phenobarbital-treated rat liver, but electrophoretic mobility is not increased, indicating structural differences in induced membranes. The mobility of the outer and inner mitochondrial membranes is significantly higher than that of submitochondrial particles. For microsomes the negative surface charge density occurs in the decreasing order of: ribosomes--rough--smooth I--smooth II. A 10 mM CsCl gradient decreases the mobility of rough microsomes by 40% and of ribosomes by 20% but has no effect on total smooth micromes. On the other hand, 5mM MgCl2 decreased the mobility of all three fractions. EDTA-treated rough and EDTA-treated smooth microsomes have the same electrophoretic mobilities. However, the mobilities of non-treated rough and smooth microsomes differ significantly from each other.", "PMID": 454586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11220", "title": "Diazontized (125I) diiodosulafanilic acid as a label for cell surface membranes. Studies on erythrocytes.", "content": "1. Diazotized 2,6-diiodosulfanilic acid (DDISA) appears to have properties suitable to serve as an artificial, non-penetrating label of cell surface membranes. Therefore, the conditions for selective labeling of cell surface membranes as compared to intracellular proteins as well as a method for its chemical determination were explored in the present study. 2. DDISA reacts with alpha-naphthol at neutral pH to produce a compound (1-hydroxy-4-(2,6-diiodo-4-sulfo-1-phenylazo-(naphthylene)), DSPN) with a characteristic spectrum in the visible range (Amax 430 nm). The absorbance of the reaction product, DSPN, is linearly proportional to the concentration of DDISA and can be used as a method for the colorimetric determination of DDISA. Reaction of DDISA with a molar excess of alpha-naphthol was also used as a method for inactivating unreacted DDISA to terminate labeling prior to cell fractionation. 3. [125I]DDISA reacts avidly with a variety of basic, neutral and acidic proteins as well as with cell membranes to form an acid-stable covalent azo linkage. 4. Effectiveness of labeling of the surface membrane of intact erythrocytes after incubation with [125I]DDISA was assessed by th ratio of 125I incorporated into membrane proteins compared to intracellular proteins. When intact erythrocytes were exposed to [125I]DDISA, the optimal labeling of membranes occurred at 37 degrees C after 20 min of incubation time and at a concentration of 10(-4) M [125I]DDISA in the incubation media. Under these conditions the ratio of the specific activity (cpm 125I/mg protein) of the membrane fraction to the specific activity of the soluble protein fraction (membrane/supernatant ratio) was greater than 500. When incubations were conducted at 4 degrees C this ratio was less than 50. However, when osmotically lysed erythrocytes were incubated with [125I]DDISA the majority of the label reacted with the soluble protein fraction resulting in a membrane/supernatant ratio of 0.14. 5. The results thus suggest that [125I]DDISA used under the appropriate incubation conditions, including the inactivation and removal of [125I]DDISA by washing with alpha-naphthol, can serve as a highly selective membrane label with minimal incorporation into intracellular soluble proteins. The general applicability of this method for other cell types remains to be explored.", "contents": "Diazontized (125I) diiodosulafanilic acid as a label for cell surface membranes. Studies on erythrocytes. 1. Diazotized 2,6-diiodosulfanilic acid (DDISA) appears to have properties suitable to serve as an artificial, non-penetrating label of cell surface membranes. Therefore, the conditions for selective labeling of cell surface membranes as compared to intracellular proteins as well as a method for its chemical determination were explored in the present study. 2. DDISA reacts with alpha-naphthol at neutral pH to produce a compound (1-hydroxy-4-(2,6-diiodo-4-sulfo-1-phenylazo-(naphthylene)), DSPN) with a characteristic spectrum in the visible range (Amax 430 nm). The absorbance of the reaction product, DSPN, is linearly proportional to the concentration of DDISA and can be used as a method for the colorimetric determination of DDISA. Reaction of DDISA with a molar excess of alpha-naphthol was also used as a method for inactivating unreacted DDISA to terminate labeling prior to cell fractionation. 3. [125I]DDISA reacts avidly with a variety of basic, neutral and acidic proteins as well as with cell membranes to form an acid-stable covalent azo linkage. 4. Effectiveness of labeling of the surface membrane of intact erythrocytes after incubation with [125I]DDISA was assessed by th ratio of 125I incorporated into membrane proteins compared to intracellular proteins. When intact erythrocytes were exposed to [125I]DDISA, the optimal labeling of membranes occurred at 37 degrees C after 20 min of incubation time and at a concentration of 10(-4) M [125I]DDISA in the incubation media. Under these conditions the ratio of the specific activity (cpm 125I/mg protein) of the membrane fraction to the specific activity of the soluble protein fraction (membrane/supernatant ratio) was greater than 500. When incubations were conducted at 4 degrees C this ratio was less than 50. However, when osmotically lysed erythrocytes were incubated with [125I]DDISA the majority of the label reacted with the soluble protein fraction resulting in a membrane/supernatant ratio of 0.14. 5. The results thus suggest that [125I]DDISA used under the appropriate incubation conditions, including the inactivation and removal of [125I]DDISA by washing with alpha-naphthol, can serve as a highly selective membrane label with minimal incorporation into intracellular soluble proteins. The general applicability of this method for other cell types remains to be explored.", "PMID": 454587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11221", "title": "Fluorescence labeling of the human erythrocyte anion transport system.", "content": "The anion transport system of human red cells was isolated in vesicles containing the original membrane lipids and the 95 000 dalton polypeptides (band 3) by the method of Wolosin et al. (J. Biol. Chem. (1977) 252, 2419--2427). The vesicles have a functional anion transprot system since they display sulfate transport that is inhibited by the fluorescent probe 8-anilinonaphthalene 1-sulfonate (ANS) with similar potency as in red cells. The vesicles were labeled with the SH-specific probe fluorescein mercuric acetate (FMA). Labeling lowers FMA fluorescence, and is prevented or reversed by dithiothreitol, suggesting that the reaction is with a thiol group on the protein. Fluorescnece titrations show a maximum labeling stoichiometry of 1.3 +/- 0.4 mol FMA/mol 95 000 dalton polypeptide. The polarization of bound FMA fluorescence is high indicating that the probe is highly immobilized. Pretreatment with Cu2+ + o-phenanthroline under conditions that crosslink band 3 in ghosts decreases FMA labeling 50%. Differences in kinetics of FMA labeling in sealed and leaky vesicles suggest that the reactive SH group is located in the intravesicular portion of the protein (corresponding to the cytoplasmic surface of the red cell) and that FMA can cross the membrane. Inhibitors of anion transport have no effect on FMA labeling kinetics suggesting it is not transported via the anion transport system. Sulfate transport in the labeled vesicles remains fully functional. We detected self-energy transfer between bound FMA molecules by fluorescence depolarization. With excitation at 450--50 nm P decreases from 0.4, when less than half of the proteins are labeled, to 0.1 at saturation. This depolarization is not observed with red edge excitation (510--530 nm). Addition of 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) changes P to 0.32, regardless of the excitation wavelength or degree of saturation with FMA. These results indicate that the band 3 proteins are close enough to allow energy transfer between fluorophores(Ro = 37.4 A), which does not occur upon red edge excitation or when the proteins are separated by SDS. We conclude that the functional anion transport system exists as a dimer or higher oligomer of band 3 proteins in these membranes, confirming previous suggestions derived using other methods. Future applications are discussed.", "contents": "Fluorescence labeling of the human erythrocyte anion transport system. The anion transport system of human red cells was isolated in vesicles containing the original membrane lipids and the 95 000 dalton polypeptides (band 3) by the method of Wolosin et al. (J. Biol. Chem. (1977) 252, 2419--2427). The vesicles have a functional anion transprot system since they display sulfate transport that is inhibited by the fluorescent probe 8-anilinonaphthalene 1-sulfonate (ANS) with similar potency as in red cells. The vesicles were labeled with the SH-specific probe fluorescein mercuric acetate (FMA). Labeling lowers FMA fluorescence, and is prevented or reversed by dithiothreitol, suggesting that the reaction is with a thiol group on the protein. Fluorescnece titrations show a maximum labeling stoichiometry of 1.3 +/- 0.4 mol FMA/mol 95 000 dalton polypeptide. The polarization of bound FMA fluorescence is high indicating that the probe is highly immobilized. Pretreatment with Cu2+ + o-phenanthroline under conditions that crosslink band 3 in ghosts decreases FMA labeling 50%. Differences in kinetics of FMA labeling in sealed and leaky vesicles suggest that the reactive SH group is located in the intravesicular portion of the protein (corresponding to the cytoplasmic surface of the red cell) and that FMA can cross the membrane. Inhibitors of anion transport have no effect on FMA labeling kinetics suggesting it is not transported via the anion transport system. Sulfate transport in the labeled vesicles remains fully functional. We detected self-energy transfer between bound FMA molecules by fluorescence depolarization. With excitation at 450--50 nm P decreases from 0.4, when less than half of the proteins are labeled, to 0.1 at saturation. This depolarization is not observed with red edge excitation (510--530 nm). Addition of 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) changes P to 0.32, regardless of the excitation wavelength or degree of saturation with FMA. These results indicate that the band 3 proteins are close enough to allow energy transfer between fluorophores(Ro = 37.4 A), which does not occur upon red edge excitation or when the proteins are separated by SDS. We conclude that the functional anion transport system exists as a dimer or higher oligomer of band 3 proteins in these membranes, confirming previous suggestions derived using other methods. Future applications are discussed.", "PMID": 454588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11222", "title": "Nanosecond fluorescence anisotropy decays of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene in membranes.", "content": "Nanosecond decays of the fluorescence anisotropy, r, were studied for the emission of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) embedded in a series of mixed multilamellar liposomes containing egg yolk phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine and cholesterol in varying molar ratios, as well as in membranes of intact cells and in virus envelopes. The relative contributions of the fast and the infinitely slow decaying component to the steady-state value r, of the fluorescence anisotropy were very similar for artifical and biological membranes. Angles, theta, of the cone, by which the motion of the fluorescent molecule is limited, were calculated from the intensity of the infinitely slow decaying anisotropy component and compared with steady-state fluorescence anisotropies and with 'microviscosities', (eta). An increase in (eta) from 1.5 to 5.2 P in our systems was accompanied by a decrease in theta from 49 degrees to 30 degrees while the decrease in the mean motional relaxation times, phi f, of the label molecule was not more than 1 ns and due mainly to changes in the potential, by which the diffusion of DPH in the membrane is restricted. From these observations we conclude that differences in the steady-state fluorescence anisotropy and in 'microviscosities' of cholesterol-containing membranes (r greater than 0.15) represent changes in the degree of static orientational constraint rather than changes in diffusion rates of the label.", "contents": "Nanosecond fluorescence anisotropy decays of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene in membranes. Nanosecond decays of the fluorescence anisotropy, r, were studied for the emission of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) embedded in a series of mixed multilamellar liposomes containing egg yolk phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine and cholesterol in varying molar ratios, as well as in membranes of intact cells and in virus envelopes. The relative contributions of the fast and the infinitely slow decaying component to the steady-state value r, of the fluorescence anisotropy were very similar for artifical and biological membranes. Angles, theta, of the cone, by which the motion of the fluorescent molecule is limited, were calculated from the intensity of the infinitely slow decaying anisotropy component and compared with steady-state fluorescence anisotropies and with 'microviscosities', (eta). An increase in (eta) from 1.5 to 5.2 P in our systems was accompanied by a decrease in theta from 49 degrees to 30 degrees while the decrease in the mean motional relaxation times, phi f, of the label molecule was not more than 1 ns and due mainly to changes in the potential, by which the diffusion of DPH in the membrane is restricted. From these observations we conclude that differences in the steady-state fluorescence anisotropy and in 'microviscosities' of cholesterol-containing membranes (r greater than 0.15) represent changes in the degree of static orientational constraint rather than changes in diffusion rates of the label.", "PMID": 454589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11223", "title": "Sialyltransferase activities of aging diploid fibroblasts.", "content": "Sialyltransferase activity and cell-cell adhesion rates of aging WI-38 cells were studied to determine the possible basis for a previously described decrease in membrane bound sialic acid and loss of proliferation of senescent cells. Ectosialyltransferase was demonstrated on the surface of both young and old WI-38 cells. The sialyltransferase assays consist of an enzyme source which is either the surface of intact cells (ectoenzyme) or a Triton X-100 cell homogenate, the nucleotide sialic acid donor (cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid), and an asialo-acceptor which may be endogenous to the enzyme preparation or may be added exogenously. When sialyltransferase activity is measured in the absence of exogenous acceptors, there is a greater amount of sialic acid transferred by odl cells. However, when exogenous acceptors are provided, the amount of transfer is stimulated to a greater extent in young cells equalizing the amount of sialic acid incorporated into young and old cells. This suggests that there are fewer asialoglycoproteins and that acceptor concentration is a limiting factor in assays of young cell sialyltransferase. The end result of this may be the previously described decreased amount of membrane-bound sialic acid of old cells. A change in the adhesiveness of old cells is described which may be related to the altered cell surface.", "contents": "Sialyltransferase activities of aging diploid fibroblasts. Sialyltransferase activity and cell-cell adhesion rates of aging WI-38 cells were studied to determine the possible basis for a previously described decrease in membrane bound sialic acid and loss of proliferation of senescent cells. Ectosialyltransferase was demonstrated on the surface of both young and old WI-38 cells. The sialyltransferase assays consist of an enzyme source which is either the surface of intact cells (ectoenzyme) or a Triton X-100 cell homogenate, the nucleotide sialic acid donor (cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid), and an asialo-acceptor which may be endogenous to the enzyme preparation or may be added exogenously. When sialyltransferase activity is measured in the absence of exogenous acceptors, there is a greater amount of sialic acid transferred by odl cells. However, when exogenous acceptors are provided, the amount of transfer is stimulated to a greater extent in young cells equalizing the amount of sialic acid incorporated into young and old cells. This suggests that there are fewer asialoglycoproteins and that acceptor concentration is a limiting factor in assays of young cell sialyltransferase. The end result of this may be the previously described decreased amount of membrane-bound sialic acid of old cells. A change in the adhesiveness of old cells is described which may be related to the altered cell surface.", "PMID": 454590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11224", "title": "Isolation of a highly enriched sarcolemma membrane fraction from canine heart.", "content": "A highly enriched sarcolemma preparation was isolated by differential centrifugation of a canine ventricular homogenate followed by centrifugation of a membrane fraction layered over 22% (w/v) sucrose. Ouabain binding, ouabain-sensitive potassium phosphatase activity and 5'-nucleotidase activity were enriched 19--27 fold over the homogenate whereas Ca2+-ATPase and succinate dehydrogenase activities were 0.75 and 0.36, respectively, of that for the homogenate. The isolation procedure was relatively rapid and yielded about 2.0 mg protein/100 g of ventricular muscle. The highest salt concentration used in the procedure was 0.6 M KCl and no detergents were employed. Initial characterization studies suggested that the sarcolemma-enriched fraction consists predominantly if not totally of freely permeable membrane vesicles and that the sarcolemma does not manifest a Ca2+-ATPase activity, at least within the limits of the assay procedures employed. This preparation was concluded to be about 1.5- to 4-fold more highly enriched with sarcolemmal markers than preparations obtained by previously published procedures. Accordingly, the preparation provides an improved basis for the probe of calcium movements that occur across the sarcolemma in association with the excitation-contraction-relaxation sequence of the mammalian myocardial cell.", "contents": "Isolation of a highly enriched sarcolemma membrane fraction from canine heart. A highly enriched sarcolemma preparation was isolated by differential centrifugation of a canine ventricular homogenate followed by centrifugation of a membrane fraction layered over 22% (w/v) sucrose. Ouabain binding, ouabain-sensitive potassium phosphatase activity and 5'-nucleotidase activity were enriched 19--27 fold over the homogenate whereas Ca2+-ATPase and succinate dehydrogenase activities were 0.75 and 0.36, respectively, of that for the homogenate. The isolation procedure was relatively rapid and yielded about 2.0 mg protein/100 g of ventricular muscle. The highest salt concentration used in the procedure was 0.6 M KCl and no detergents were employed. Initial characterization studies suggested that the sarcolemma-enriched fraction consists predominantly if not totally of freely permeable membrane vesicles and that the sarcolemma does not manifest a Ca2+-ATPase activity, at least within the limits of the assay procedures employed. This preparation was concluded to be about 1.5- to 4-fold more highly enriched with sarcolemmal markers than preparations obtained by previously published procedures. Accordingly, the preparation provides an improved basis for the probe of calcium movements that occur across the sarcolemma in association with the excitation-contraction-relaxation sequence of the mammalian myocardial cell.", "PMID": 454591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11225", "title": "Role of sodium ions in p-aminohippurate transport by newt kidney.", "content": "1. The effect of external Na+ concentration on p-aminohippurate uptake by isolated kidneys of newt (Triturus pyrrhogaster) was studied kinetically and electrophysiologically. 2. p-Aminohippurate uptake conformed to Michaelis-Menten type kinetics in regard to both p-aminohippurate and Na+ concentrations in the incubation medium. Kinetic studies revealed that reduction of Na+ concentration increased the values of Kt without altering the maximal rate (V) of p-aminohippurate uptake. The values of Kt were a linear function of the reciprocal of Na+ concentration. These results suggest the presence of interaction between p-aminohippurate and Na+ at the carrier level, i.e. Na+-coupled cotransport. 3. p-Aminohippurate had no effect on the electrical potential difference across the peritubular membrane in both 10 and 100 mM Na+ solutions, suggesting that p-aminohippurate is transported across the peritubular membrane in a form of electrically neutral carrier complex. This is consistent with the results of the kinetic studies. 4. p-Aminohippurate uptake was proportional to the electrochemical potential gradient of Na+ (delta mu Na) across the peritubular membrane. This result indicates that the maintenance of sufficient delta mu Na appears to be necessary for the accumulation of p-aminohippurate against its electrochemical potential gradient, supporting Na+ gradient hypothesis.", "contents": "Role of sodium ions in p-aminohippurate transport by newt kidney. 1. The effect of external Na+ concentration on p-aminohippurate uptake by isolated kidneys of newt (Triturus pyrrhogaster) was studied kinetically and electrophysiologically. 2. p-Aminohippurate uptake conformed to Michaelis-Menten type kinetics in regard to both p-aminohippurate and Na+ concentrations in the incubation medium. Kinetic studies revealed that reduction of Na+ concentration increased the values of Kt without altering the maximal rate (V) of p-aminohippurate uptake. The values of Kt were a linear function of the reciprocal of Na+ concentration. These results suggest the presence of interaction between p-aminohippurate and Na+ at the carrier level, i.e. Na+-coupled cotransport. 3. p-Aminohippurate had no effect on the electrical potential difference across the peritubular membrane in both 10 and 100 mM Na+ solutions, suggesting that p-aminohippurate is transported across the peritubular membrane in a form of electrically neutral carrier complex. This is consistent with the results of the kinetic studies. 4. p-Aminohippurate uptake was proportional to the electrochemical potential gradient of Na+ (delta mu Na) across the peritubular membrane. This result indicates that the maintenance of sufficient delta mu Na appears to be necessary for the accumulation of p-aminohippurate against its electrochemical potential gradient, supporting Na+ gradient hypothesis.", "PMID": 454592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11226", "title": "Membrane instability induced by purified myelin components. Its possible relevance to experimental allergic encephalomyelitis.", "content": "The fusogenic properties of purified myelin components in a system employing chicken erythrocytes were studied. Sulphatides, myelin basic protein and the apoprotein of Folch-Lees proteolipid were capable of individually inducing membrane fusion in the presence of Ca2+. By contrast, cerebrosides or a mixture of sulphatides and myelin basic protein (molar ratio 19 : 1) did not show such effect. The fusogenic ability of sulphatide was correlated to its behaviour in mixed monolayers with phospholipids at the air-water interface. Mixed films of sulphatides with phosphatidylcholine or sphingomyelin but not with phosphatidylethanolamine showed reductions of molecular packing and surface potential similar to those found for other fusogenic compounds. The effects of myelin components described could be of importance in the membrane instability and vesicular disruption of myelin occurring in demyelinative disorders.", "contents": "Membrane instability induced by purified myelin components. Its possible relevance to experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. The fusogenic properties of purified myelin components in a system employing chicken erythrocytes were studied. Sulphatides, myelin basic protein and the apoprotein of Folch-Lees proteolipid were capable of individually inducing membrane fusion in the presence of Ca2+. By contrast, cerebrosides or a mixture of sulphatides and myelin basic protein (molar ratio 19 : 1) did not show such effect. The fusogenic ability of sulphatide was correlated to its behaviour in mixed monolayers with phospholipids at the air-water interface. Mixed films of sulphatides with phosphatidylcholine or sphingomyelin but not with phosphatidylethanolamine showed reductions of molecular packing and surface potential similar to those found for other fusogenic compounds. The effects of myelin components described could be of importance in the membrane instability and vesicular disruption of myelin occurring in demyelinative disorders.", "PMID": 454593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11227", "title": "Translocation and turnover of phospholipid analogs in plasma membrane-derived vesicles from cell cultures.", "content": "The time-dependent accumulation of phosphatidyldimethylethanolamine in formaldehyde-induced vesicles obtained from a somatic cell hybrid line was investigated. From a number of considerations including a two-fold enrichment of cholesterol and sphingomyelin it was concluded that these vesicles were derived from the cell plasma membrane. A progressive depletion of phosphatidylcholine, the major vesicle phospholipid, was observed in cells supplemented for various time periods with dimethylethanolamine. This depletion was accompanied by a concomitant increase in the amount of lipid analog. The time-dependent alteration of the phospholipid polar head group in intact cells was almost identical to that observed in isolated plasma membrane vesicles, suggesting a rapid equilibration of the de novo synthesized phospholipid with the cell surface compartment. From the initial velocity rate, the time required for the phosphatidylcholine pool to double was about 12 h. Agarose-linked phospholipase A2 was used to measure the relative composition of choline- and dimethylethanolamine-phosphoglycerides in the outer surface of vesicles prepared from cells with different degrees of polar head group substitution. The gradual appearance of lysodimethylethanolamine lipid analog in vesicles treated with phospholipase A2 suggested an asymmetric distribution of the phospholipid between the interior and the exterior part of the vesicle. This asymmetry was maximal up to about 4 h following the addition of dimethylethanolamine to the culture medium and was of a transient nature as the lipid analog accumulated on both sides of the plasma membrane. Based on these measurements a fast followed by a slow translocation component could be distinguished with apparent doubling times of 7 and 43 h for the lipid analog, respectively. As the analog becomes the predominant cellular phospholipid a significant increase in the vesicle lipid fluidity was measured.", "contents": "Translocation and turnover of phospholipid analogs in plasma membrane-derived vesicles from cell cultures. The time-dependent accumulation of phosphatidyldimethylethanolamine in formaldehyde-induced vesicles obtained from a somatic cell hybrid line was investigated. From a number of considerations including a two-fold enrichment of cholesterol and sphingomyelin it was concluded that these vesicles were derived from the cell plasma membrane. A progressive depletion of phosphatidylcholine, the major vesicle phospholipid, was observed in cells supplemented for various time periods with dimethylethanolamine. This depletion was accompanied by a concomitant increase in the amount of lipid analog. The time-dependent alteration of the phospholipid polar head group in intact cells was almost identical to that observed in isolated plasma membrane vesicles, suggesting a rapid equilibration of the de novo synthesized phospholipid with the cell surface compartment. From the initial velocity rate, the time required for the phosphatidylcholine pool to double was about 12 h. Agarose-linked phospholipase A2 was used to measure the relative composition of choline- and dimethylethanolamine-phosphoglycerides in the outer surface of vesicles prepared from cells with different degrees of polar head group substitution. The gradual appearance of lysodimethylethanolamine lipid analog in vesicles treated with phospholipase A2 suggested an asymmetric distribution of the phospholipid between the interior and the exterior part of the vesicle. This asymmetry was maximal up to about 4 h following the addition of dimethylethanolamine to the culture medium and was of a transient nature as the lipid analog accumulated on both sides of the plasma membrane. Based on these measurements a fast followed by a slow translocation component could be distinguished with apparent doubling times of 7 and 43 h for the lipid analog, respectively. As the analog becomes the predominant cellular phospholipid a significant increase in the vesicle lipid fluidity was measured.", "PMID": 454594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11228", "title": "Mechanism of blockage of amphotericin B channels in a lipid bilayer.", "content": "A number of organic compounds (non-electrolytes, tetraalkylammonia, etc.) with a molecular size of 6--8 angstrom decrease the conductance of ionic channels formed in the lipid bilayer by a polyene antibiotic amphotericin B. It is suggested that these compounds, upon entering the channel, block the passage of inorganic ions. The extent of conductance blockage by organic ions depends on the membrane potential and electrolyte concentration. In the presence of ionic blockers, for instance tetraethylammonium, amphotericin B-containing membranes assume some properties characteristic of excitable membranes, i.e. the current-voltage characteristic acquires the negative resistance region, and in response to a potential step activation followed by inactivation of conductance is observed. It is shown that the potential dependence of the blockage is due to interaction inside the channel of the blocker ion with penetrating ions, by a mechanism similar to that described by Armstrong ((1979) Q. Rev. Biophys. 7, 179--210) for blockage of squid axon potassium channels by ammonium derivatives.", "contents": "Mechanism of blockage of amphotericin B channels in a lipid bilayer. A number of organic compounds (non-electrolytes, tetraalkylammonia, etc.) with a molecular size of 6--8 angstrom decrease the conductance of ionic channels formed in the lipid bilayer by a polyene antibiotic amphotericin B. It is suggested that these compounds, upon entering the channel, block the passage of inorganic ions. The extent of conductance blockage by organic ions depends on the membrane potential and electrolyte concentration. In the presence of ionic blockers, for instance tetraethylammonium, amphotericin B-containing membranes assume some properties characteristic of excitable membranes, i.e. the current-voltage characteristic acquires the negative resistance region, and in response to a potential step activation followed by inactivation of conductance is observed. It is shown that the potential dependence of the blockage is due to interaction inside the channel of the blocker ion with penetrating ions, by a mechanism similar to that described by Armstrong ((1979) Q. Rev. Biophys. 7, 179--210) for blockage of squid axon potassium channels by ammonium derivatives.", "PMID": 454595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11229", "title": "Isolation and characterization of noradrenalin storage granules of bovine adrenal medulla.", "content": "A method is described for the preparation of (1) the heavy population of bovine adrenal chromaffin granules (SH (average sedimentation coefficient) = 12 400 S in 0.25 M sucrose) essentially free from contamination with mitochondria and other organelles, and (2) a subpopulation of this heavy population which is highly enriched in noradrenalin (greater than or approximately 95% of the total catecholamine is noradrenalin). The method is based on isopycnic gradient centrifugation using a self-generating gradient of polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated colloidal silica particles (Percoll) in 0.5 M sucrose medium. The isolated population of noradrenalin granules appeared highly electron dense in transmission electron microscopy and revealed a rather narrow size distribution. The specific content of amine and adenine nucleotides (with reference to total granule protein) was markedly higher than for the total population of heavy chromaffin granules. The molar ratio of amines to adenine nucleotides was, however, lower in the noradrenalin granules, i.e. 4.8 vs. 11.9.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of noradrenalin storage granules of bovine adrenal medulla. A method is described for the preparation of (1) the heavy population of bovine adrenal chromaffin granules (SH (average sedimentation coefficient) = 12 400 S in 0.25 M sucrose) essentially free from contamination with mitochondria and other organelles, and (2) a subpopulation of this heavy population which is highly enriched in noradrenalin (greater than or approximately 95% of the total catecholamine is noradrenalin). The method is based on isopycnic gradient centrifugation using a self-generating gradient of polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated colloidal silica particles (Percoll) in 0.5 M sucrose medium. The isolated population of noradrenalin granules appeared highly electron dense in transmission electron microscopy and revealed a rather narrow size distribution. The specific content of amine and adenine nucleotides (with reference to total granule protein) was markedly higher than for the total population of heavy chromaffin granules. The molar ratio of amines to adenine nucleotides was, however, lower in the noradrenalin granules, i.e. 4.8 vs. 11.9.", "PMID": 454596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11230", "title": "Phospholipid composition and external labeling of aminophospholipids of human En(a--) erythrocyte membranes which lack the major sialoglycorprotein (glycophorin A).", "content": "Erythrocytes of the rare human blood group En(a--) lack the major sialoglycoprotein, glycophorin A, and the cell population heterozygous for the En(a) antigen contain half the normal amount of glycophorin A. With such cells we have studied whether glycophorin A influences the phospholipid composition and the availability of aminophospholipids to external labeling reagents. We here demonstrate that the amounts of all phospholipids are closely similar in normal and variant membranes. However, using the amino-reactive reagent trinitrobenzenesulfonate, we show that phosphatidylethanolamine is more easily labeled in intact En(a--) cells as compared to normal cells, whereas phosphatidylethanolamine shows an intermediate labeling in En(a) heterozygous cells.", "contents": "Phospholipid composition and external labeling of aminophospholipids of human En(a--) erythrocyte membranes which lack the major sialoglycorprotein (glycophorin A). Erythrocytes of the rare human blood group En(a--) lack the major sialoglycoprotein, glycophorin A, and the cell population heterozygous for the En(a) antigen contain half the normal amount of glycophorin A. With such cells we have studied whether glycophorin A influences the phospholipid composition and the availability of aminophospholipids to external labeling reagents. We here demonstrate that the amounts of all phospholipids are closely similar in normal and variant membranes. However, using the amino-reactive reagent trinitrobenzenesulfonate, we show that phosphatidylethanolamine is more easily labeled in intact En(a--) cells as compared to normal cells, whereas phosphatidylethanolamine shows an intermediate labeling in En(a) heterozygous cells.", "PMID": 454597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11231", "title": "A defect of the myo-inositol maintenance mechanism in the lens of hereditary cataract mice.", "content": "The myo-inositol uptake system was studied in lenses of normal and hereditary cataract mouse. The normal mouse was able to accumulate myo-inositol continuously from medium and keep it in a high concentration. The specific myo-inositol uptake was dependent on temperature and it decreased in Ca(2+)-free medium. In contrast, specific uptake of myo-inositol reached a plateau after 15 min in the cataract mouse lens although initial incorporation was more rapid than that in normal mouse lens. This uptake system was not affected by temperature or Ca(2+) in the medium. The rate of myo-inositol efflux into the medium was more rapid in the cataract lens than that of the normal lens. It was shown that the low level of myo-inositol in the lens of hereditary cataract mouse was due to the defect of myo-inositol transport system and the enhanced efflux rate. These results suggest a dysfunction of the lens membrane.", "contents": "A defect of the myo-inositol maintenance mechanism in the lens of hereditary cataract mice. The myo-inositol uptake system was studied in lenses of normal and hereditary cataract mouse. The normal mouse was able to accumulate myo-inositol continuously from medium and keep it in a high concentration. The specific myo-inositol uptake was dependent on temperature and it decreased in Ca(2+)-free medium. In contrast, specific uptake of myo-inositol reached a plateau after 15 min in the cataract mouse lens although initial incorporation was more rapid than that in normal mouse lens. This uptake system was not affected by temperature or Ca(2+) in the medium. The rate of myo-inositol efflux into the medium was more rapid in the cataract lens than that of the normal lens. It was shown that the low level of myo-inositol in the lens of hereditary cataract mouse was due to the defect of myo-inositol transport system and the enhanced efflux rate. These results suggest a dysfunction of the lens membrane.", "PMID": 454598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11232", "title": "Calcium-induced potassium pathway in sided erythrocyte membrane vesicles.", "content": "We have characterized the asymmetric effect of Ca2+ on passive K+ permeability in erythrocyte membranes, using inside out and right-side out vesicles. Ca2+, but not Mg2+, can induce an increase in K+ uptake in inside out vesicles. The half-maximal concentration of Ca2+ required to induce the K+ uptake is 0.2 mM, and the permeability increase is not specific for K+. Thus, the Ca2+- induced permeation process in inside out vesicles is changed from that in the energy-depleted intact cell which requires only micromolar concentrations of Ca2+ and is specific for K+. Removal of spectrin had no effect on the vesicle permeability increase due to Ca2+. Studies with N-ethylmaleimide show that the vesicle channel openings is mediated by a protein and passage is controlled by sulfhydryl groups; furthermore, the Ca2+-induced vesicle pathway is distinct from the normal channel for passive K+ leak in the absence of Ca2+. The protein is sensitive to its phospholipid environment since removal of easily accessible phospholipid head groups on the cytoplasmic face of the vesicles inhibits the Ca2+ -stimulated channel opening.", "contents": "Calcium-induced potassium pathway in sided erythrocyte membrane vesicles. We have characterized the asymmetric effect of Ca2+ on passive K+ permeability in erythrocyte membranes, using inside out and right-side out vesicles. Ca2+, but not Mg2+, can induce an increase in K+ uptake in inside out vesicles. The half-maximal concentration of Ca2+ required to induce the K+ uptake is 0.2 mM, and the permeability increase is not specific for K+. Thus, the Ca2+- induced permeation process in inside out vesicles is changed from that in the energy-depleted intact cell which requires only micromolar concentrations of Ca2+ and is specific for K+. Removal of spectrin had no effect on the vesicle permeability increase due to Ca2+. Studies with N-ethylmaleimide show that the vesicle channel openings is mediated by a protein and passage is controlled by sulfhydryl groups; furthermore, the Ca2+-induced vesicle pathway is distinct from the normal channel for passive K+ leak in the absence of Ca2+. The protein is sensitive to its phospholipid environment since removal of easily accessible phospholipid head groups on the cytoplasmic face of the vesicles inhibits the Ca2+ -stimulated channel opening.", "PMID": 454599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11233", "title": "Divalent cations cooperatively stabilize close membrane contacts in myelin.", "content": "Intact nerve myelin compacts to a dehydrated structure of closely apposed membranes when exposed to isotonic solutions at least 10 mM in calcium or tetracaine. The repeat period of the membrane pair in the compacted structure measured by X-ray diffraction is about 126 A in both central and peripheral mammalian nerve myelins whereas the normal periods are about 158 and 178 A, respectively. The electron density profile of compacted myelin shows an asymmetric membrane unit with thickness similar to that of the symmetric bilayer of flocculated myelin lipids. The centrosymmetrically averaged myelin membrane profile is similar to that of the lipid bilayer except at the surface where residual protein is concentrated. Dispersions of extracted total myelin lipids flocculate under similar conditions to those causing myelin compaction, indicating that similar forces act in both processes. Compaction is always accompanied by lateral segregation of intramembrane particles out of the close-packed domains. Lateral displacement of intramembrane proteins form compacted domains can be driven by the attraction of the lipid surfaces for each other. Rates of compaction vary with compacting reagent, concentration, tissue, and temperature, and probably reflect the permeability of the tissue. Extensive compaction by calcium or tetracaine leads to disruption and vesiculation of the spirally wrapped myelin membranes.", "contents": "Divalent cations cooperatively stabilize close membrane contacts in myelin. Intact nerve myelin compacts to a dehydrated structure of closely apposed membranes when exposed to isotonic solutions at least 10 mM in calcium or tetracaine. The repeat period of the membrane pair in the compacted structure measured by X-ray diffraction is about 126 A in both central and peripheral mammalian nerve myelins whereas the normal periods are about 158 and 178 A, respectively. The electron density profile of compacted myelin shows an asymmetric membrane unit with thickness similar to that of the symmetric bilayer of flocculated myelin lipids. The centrosymmetrically averaged myelin membrane profile is similar to that of the lipid bilayer except at the surface where residual protein is concentrated. Dispersions of extracted total myelin lipids flocculate under similar conditions to those causing myelin compaction, indicating that similar forces act in both processes. Compaction is always accompanied by lateral segregation of intramembrane particles out of the close-packed domains. Lateral displacement of intramembrane proteins form compacted domains can be driven by the attraction of the lipid surfaces for each other. Rates of compaction vary with compacting reagent, concentration, tissue, and temperature, and probably reflect the permeability of the tissue. Extensive compaction by calcium or tetracaine leads to disruption and vesiculation of the spirally wrapped myelin membranes.", "PMID": 454600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11234", "title": "Methionine transport in S37 cells. Substrate-dependent function of amino acid transport system A in exchange processes.", "content": "Methionine had been observed to interact with two principal transport systems for amino acids in mammalian cells, the A and L systems. The present study of methionine transport and of exchange processes through system A arose in the course of a study to define the specificity of a transinhibition effect caused by cysteine. Methionine uptake through two transport systems in the S37 cell was confirmed by the occurrence of a biphasic double-reciprocal plot for labeled methionine uptake. Preloading cells with methionine stimulated labeled histidine uptake through systems A and L. Efflux of labeled methionine from cells was stimulated by histidine in a biphasic manner, so that bothe systems A and L can be used for exchange when methionine is the intracellular amino acid. Aminocycloheptanecarboxylic acid elicited exchange efflux of labeled methionine only through system L. ALPHA-Aminoisobutyric acid and N-methyl-alpha-aminoisobutyric acid both stimulated efflux of labeled N-methyl-alpha-aminoisobutyric acid from S37 cells. These findings are interpreted a showing that transport system A is capable of functioning as an exchange system depending upon the identity of intracellular and extracellular substrates available.", "contents": "Methionine transport in S37 cells. Substrate-dependent function of amino acid transport system A in exchange processes. Methionine had been observed to interact with two principal transport systems for amino acids in mammalian cells, the A and L systems. The present study of methionine transport and of exchange processes through system A arose in the course of a study to define the specificity of a transinhibition effect caused by cysteine. Methionine uptake through two transport systems in the S37 cell was confirmed by the occurrence of a biphasic double-reciprocal plot for labeled methionine uptake. Preloading cells with methionine stimulated labeled histidine uptake through systems A and L. Efflux of labeled methionine from cells was stimulated by histidine in a biphasic manner, so that bothe systems A and L can be used for exchange when methionine is the intracellular amino acid. Aminocycloheptanecarboxylic acid elicited exchange efflux of labeled methionine only through system L. ALPHA-Aminoisobutyric acid and N-methyl-alpha-aminoisobutyric acid both stimulated efflux of labeled N-methyl-alpha-aminoisobutyric acid from S37 cells. These findings are interpreted a showing that transport system A is capable of functioning as an exchange system depending upon the identity of intracellular and extracellular substrates available.", "PMID": 454601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11235", "title": "A rapid method for the isolation of kidney brush border membranes.", "content": "A simple rapid method for the preparation of purified brush border membranes from rabbit kidney proximal tubules is described. The method is based on hypotonic lysis, Ca2+ aggregation of contaminants and differential centrifugation. In contrast to most other published methods, the brush border membranes are free of contamination by basolateral membranes.", "contents": "A rapid method for the isolation of kidney brush border membranes. A simple rapid method for the preparation of purified brush border membranes from rabbit kidney proximal tubules is described. The method is based on hypotonic lysis, Ca2+ aggregation of contaminants and differential centrifugation. In contrast to most other published methods, the brush border membranes are free of contamination by basolateral membranes.", "PMID": 454602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11236", "title": "Isolation of brush border membranes in vesicular form from the intestinal spiral valve of the small dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula).", "content": "A simple, rapid method for the preparation of purified brush border membranes in vesicular form from rabbit kidney proximal tubules has been applied with closely similar results to the intestinal spiral valve of the small dogfish (Scyliorhinus conicula). Since the dogfish belongs to one of the most ancient species of fish, it may be suggested that the method is generally applicable to all species later evolved which possess a brush border membrane at the mucosal surface of the cells of the intestine or kidney.", "contents": "Isolation of brush border membranes in vesicular form from the intestinal spiral valve of the small dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula). A simple, rapid method for the preparation of purified brush border membranes in vesicular form from rabbit kidney proximal tubules has been applied with closely similar results to the intestinal spiral valve of the small dogfish (Scyliorhinus conicula). Since the dogfish belongs to one of the most ancient species of fish, it may be suggested that the method is generally applicable to all species later evolved which possess a brush border membrane at the mucosal surface of the cells of the intestine or kidney.", "PMID": 454603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11237", "title": "Spectral analysis of absorption changes associated with nerve excitation in dye-stained crab nerve.", "content": "Spectral characteristics of absorption changes associated with nerve excitation were studied with crab nerves stained with a homologous series of dyes, merocyanine-rhodanines and rhodanine oxonols. In these classes of dyes, the absorption changes which followed approximately the same time course as that of the action potential (fast responses) depended in a similar fashion on the wavelength and polarization of the incident light. In order to interpret those commonly observed dependencies, a mode of reorientation of the absorption oscillators of the dye molecules in the membrane matrix during nerve excitation was proposed. In addition to the fast changes mentioned above, slow responses which developed during and after the action potential were commonly observed with oxonols. The spectra of the slow changes differed from those of the fast ones, indicating a distinct mechanism on the response production. A possible mechanism of the production of fast responses was also discussed based on the proposed mode of reorientation of the absorption oscillators.", "contents": "Spectral analysis of absorption changes associated with nerve excitation in dye-stained crab nerve. Spectral characteristics of absorption changes associated with nerve excitation were studied with crab nerves stained with a homologous series of dyes, merocyanine-rhodanines and rhodanine oxonols. In these classes of dyes, the absorption changes which followed approximately the same time course as that of the action potential (fast responses) depended in a similar fashion on the wavelength and polarization of the incident light. In order to interpret those commonly observed dependencies, a mode of reorientation of the absorption oscillators of the dye molecules in the membrane matrix during nerve excitation was proposed. In addition to the fast changes mentioned above, slow responses which developed during and after the action potential were commonly observed with oxonols. The spectra of the slow changes differed from those of the fast ones, indicating a distinct mechanism on the response production. A possible mechanism of the production of fast responses was also discussed based on the proposed mode of reorientation of the absorption oscillators.", "PMID": 454604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11238", "title": "The effect of cell excision and microelectrode perforation on membrane resistance measurements of Nitella translucens.", "content": "The effect of cell excision and microelectrode perforation on the membrane resistance measurements of Nitella translucens was determined by direct experiment. From the results it is concluded that perforation has no effect on cells as short as 1 cm. Current leakage though the node of an excised cell has however to be given some consideration. The method used for determining the resistance recovery to insertion has a wide application and its simplicity will encourage its use in other biological systems.", "contents": "The effect of cell excision and microelectrode perforation on membrane resistance measurements of Nitella translucens. The effect of cell excision and microelectrode perforation on the membrane resistance measurements of Nitella translucens was determined by direct experiment. From the results it is concluded that perforation has no effect on cells as short as 1 cm. Current leakage though the node of an excised cell has however to be given some consideration. The method used for determining the resistance recovery to insertion has a wide application and its simplicity will encourage its use in other biological systems.", "PMID": 454605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11239", "title": "Instability development in heated human erthrocytes.", "content": "Heated human erythrocytes gradually lose their form-maintaining structure as the temperature is increased to 50 degrees C and can behave in some respects as a viscous fluid. We have developed a technique for heating and stressing these cells that is novel, simple and quantitatively precise. We have applied this technique to heated human erythrocytes and have measured instability development in cells. We have employed instability growth theory to calculate a value for an effective surface tension which, in contrast to other methods of membrane surface tension measurement sought to minimize the effects of membrane supporting structural elements. The value obtained for the surface tension of the heated erythrocyte membrane was 0.9 . 10(-6) N/m with a range of variation from 0.4 . 10(-6)N/m to 1.4 . 10(-6) N/m. The methods described may be useful for determining fundamental physical parameters such as internal viscosity and interfacial tension in other systems.", "contents": "Instability development in heated human erthrocytes. Heated human erythrocytes gradually lose their form-maintaining structure as the temperature is increased to 50 degrees C and can behave in some respects as a viscous fluid. We have developed a technique for heating and stressing these cells that is novel, simple and quantitatively precise. We have applied this technique to heated human erythrocytes and have measured instability development in cells. We have employed instability growth theory to calculate a value for an effective surface tension which, in contrast to other methods of membrane surface tension measurement sought to minimize the effects of membrane supporting structural elements. The value obtained for the surface tension of the heated erythrocyte membrane was 0.9 . 10(-6) N/m with a range of variation from 0.4 . 10(-6)N/m to 1.4 . 10(-6) N/m. The methods described may be useful for determining fundamental physical parameters such as internal viscosity and interfacial tension in other systems.", "PMID": 454606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11240", "title": "Characterisation of ribosomal satellite in total nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "The distinctive properties of satellite DNA molecules containing the genes for ribosomal RNA in Physarum polycephalum permits their identification in total, unfractionated nuclear DNA in the foldback form, after denaturation and fast annealing. Using the electron microscope the location and properties of three characteristic regions containing tandemly-repeated, inverted sequences have been investigated. At least two additional regions, also containing tandem repeats, are shown to be present and located towards each end of the rDNA molecule, at a site adjacent to the segment coding for the 26 S rRNA. All the regions which contain tandem repeats are composed of sequences which, within experimental error, appear to share a common unit repeat length of about 90 nucleotides.", "contents": "Characterisation of ribosomal satellite in total nuclear DNA from Physarum polycephalum. The distinctive properties of satellite DNA molecules containing the genes for ribosomal RNA in Physarum polycephalum permits their identification in total, unfractionated nuclear DNA in the foldback form, after denaturation and fast annealing. Using the electron microscope the location and properties of three characteristic regions containing tandemly-repeated, inverted sequences have been investigated. At least two additional regions, also containing tandem repeats, are shown to be present and located towards each end of the rDNA molecule, at a site adjacent to the segment coding for the 26 S rRNA. All the regions which contain tandem repeats are composed of sequences which, within experimental error, appear to share a common unit repeat length of about 90 nucleotides.", "PMID": 454607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11241", "title": "The evolution of the long and short repetitive DNA sequences in sea urchins.", "content": "The rates of evolution of purified long and short repetitive DNA sequences were examined by hybridisation analysis between the DNAs from several species of sea urchins. We find that the rates of nucleotide substitution are very comparable within mutually retained sequences for the two classes of repetitive DNA. The loss of hybridisable sequences between species also occurs at similar rates among both the short and long repetitive DNA sequences. Between species that separated less than 50 million years ago, hybridisable short repetitive sequences are lost all through the spectrum of reiteration frequencies. The long repeats contain a few sequences which are highly conserved within all of the species examined, and which amount to approximately 1% of the total genome. The short repetitive class, on the other hand, does not seem to contain any such highly conserved elements. The long repetitive sequences internally appear to contain short 'units' of reiteration, which may comprise families within the long repetitive class. We find no evidence to indicate that the majority of long and short repetitive sequences evolve by different mechanisms or at different rates.", "contents": "The evolution of the long and short repetitive DNA sequences in sea urchins. The rates of evolution of purified long and short repetitive DNA sequences were examined by hybridisation analysis between the DNAs from several species of sea urchins. We find that the rates of nucleotide substitution are very comparable within mutually retained sequences for the two classes of repetitive DNA. The loss of hybridisable sequences between species also occurs at similar rates among both the short and long repetitive DNA sequences. Between species that separated less than 50 million years ago, hybridisable short repetitive sequences are lost all through the spectrum of reiteration frequencies. The long repeats contain a few sequences which are highly conserved within all of the species examined, and which amount to approximately 1% of the total genome. The short repetitive class, on the other hand, does not seem to contain any such highly conserved elements. The long repetitive sequences internally appear to contain short 'units' of reiteration, which may comprise families within the long repetitive class. We find no evidence to indicate that the majority of long and short repetitive sequences evolve by different mechanisms or at different rates.", "PMID": 454609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11242", "title": "Impairment of reovirus mRNA 'cap' methylation in interferon-treated mouse L929 cells.", "content": "Reovirus mRNAs synthesized in vitro by the virionassociated enzyme have a 5' 'cap 1' structure (m7G(5')ppp(5')GmpCp...). However, about one third to one half of the reovirus mRNAs formed in mouse L929 cells have a 5' 'cap 2' structure (m7G(5')ppp(5')GmpCmp...) and the rest have a 5' 'cap 1' structure. The finding that virus mRNA 'cap' methylation is impaired in extracts of interferon-treated cells prompted us to study the effect of interferon on virus mRNA 'cap' methylation in vivo. Using labeling with [3H]-guanosine and dual labeling with [3H]methionine and [14C]uridine we compared the 5' structures of reovirus mRNAs accumulating between 5 and 11 h after infection in: L929 cells treated with 390 to 2600 U/ml of a partially purified mouse interferon preparation and untreated L929 cells. The treatment resulted in a 70 to 98% decrease in the 24 h virus yield and in a 50 to 55% decrease in the label accumulated in virus mRNAs. The 'capping' of virus mRNAs and the methylation of their 5' terminal and adjacent G residues were not diminished in interferon-treated cells. However, the percent of 'cap 2' termini was 36 to 47% lower in virus mRNAs from interferon-treated cells than in virus mRNAs from control cells. The interferon treatment did not result in the appearance of additional methylated nucleotides in the virus mRNAs.", "contents": "Impairment of reovirus mRNA 'cap' methylation in interferon-treated mouse L929 cells. Reovirus mRNAs synthesized in vitro by the virionassociated enzyme have a 5' 'cap 1' structure (m7G(5')ppp(5')GmpCp...). However, about one third to one half of the reovirus mRNAs formed in mouse L929 cells have a 5' 'cap 2' structure (m7G(5')ppp(5')GmpCmp...) and the rest have a 5' 'cap 1' structure. The finding that virus mRNA 'cap' methylation is impaired in extracts of interferon-treated cells prompted us to study the effect of interferon on virus mRNA 'cap' methylation in vivo. Using labeling with [3H]-guanosine and dual labeling with [3H]methionine and [14C]uridine we compared the 5' structures of reovirus mRNAs accumulating between 5 and 11 h after infection in: L929 cells treated with 390 to 2600 U/ml of a partially purified mouse interferon preparation and untreated L929 cells. The treatment resulted in a 70 to 98% decrease in the 24 h virus yield and in a 50 to 55% decrease in the label accumulated in virus mRNAs. The 'capping' of virus mRNAs and the methylation of their 5' terminal and adjacent G residues were not diminished in interferon-treated cells. However, the percent of 'cap 2' termini was 36 to 47% lower in virus mRNAs from interferon-treated cells than in virus mRNAs from control cells. The interferon treatment did not result in the appearance of additional methylated nucleotides in the virus mRNAs.", "PMID": 454611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11243", "title": "Translation of partially purified poly(A)+ protamine messenger RNA components in wheat germ and rabbit reticulocyte cell-free systems. Evidence for translational control mechanisms.", "content": "The coding properties of individual poly(A)+ protamine mRNA subcomponents have been explored by analysis of their translation products in two different cell-free protein synthesis systems, the rabbit reticulocyte lysate and the wheat germ S-30, both of which can translate total protamine mRNA. The products synthesized in the reticulocyte lysate in the presence of total poly(A)+ PmRNA consisted mainly of protamine components CII and CIII with component CI only a minor product. However, in the wheat germ S-30, the same mRNA preparation supported the synthesis of all three protamine components, in approximately equal amounts. In addition a new polypeptide, a putative fourth protamine component, labelled CO, was also synthesized. The translation products of subcomponents of poly(A)+ PmRNA separated as individual bands on polyacrylamide gels were similarly analyzed and it was shown that each of the isolated poly(A)+ PmRNA species could stimulate the incorporation of [3H]arginine into protamines in both translational systems. Although each mRNA band stimulated the synthesis of one particular protamine polypeptide predominantly in a given cell-free system, the same RNA preparation was found to direct preferentially the synthesis of a different protamine component in the second cell-free system. The products synthesized in the rabbit reticulocyte lysate in the presence of the individual mRNA species still showed component CI present as a minor product.", "contents": "Translation of partially purified poly(A)+ protamine messenger RNA components in wheat germ and rabbit reticulocyte cell-free systems. Evidence for translational control mechanisms. The coding properties of individual poly(A)+ protamine mRNA subcomponents have been explored by analysis of their translation products in two different cell-free protein synthesis systems, the rabbit reticulocyte lysate and the wheat germ S-30, both of which can translate total protamine mRNA. The products synthesized in the reticulocyte lysate in the presence of total poly(A)+ PmRNA consisted mainly of protamine components CII and CIII with component CI only a minor product. However, in the wheat germ S-30, the same mRNA preparation supported the synthesis of all three protamine components, in approximately equal amounts. In addition a new polypeptide, a putative fourth protamine component, labelled CO, was also synthesized. The translation products of subcomponents of poly(A)+ PmRNA separated as individual bands on polyacrylamide gels were similarly analyzed and it was shown that each of the isolated poly(A)+ PmRNA species could stimulate the incorporation of [3H]arginine into protamines in both translational systems. Although each mRNA band stimulated the synthesis of one particular protamine polypeptide predominantly in a given cell-free system, the same RNA preparation was found to direct preferentially the synthesis of a different protamine component in the second cell-free system. The products synthesized in the rabbit reticulocyte lysate in the presence of the individual mRNA species still showed component CI present as a minor product.", "PMID": 454612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11244", "title": "Effect of modeccin on rat liver ribosomes in vivo.", "content": "1. Rat liver microsomes isolated at 6 and 12 h of poisoning with 3 x LD50 (0.3 microgram/100 g body wt.) of modeccin, the toxin of Adenia digitata, have a decreased capacity of protein synthesis in vitro. 2. A similar decrease of protein synthesis is observed with polysomes at 6 h of poisoning. Experiments with recombined ribosomal subunits demonstrate that this is due to inactivation of the 60 S ribosomal subunit. 3. At 6 h of poisoning there is a marked vesiculation and degranulation of the hepatocyte rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is completely fragmented at 24 h of poisoning. Hepatocyte mitochondria are swollen at 6 h and shrunk at 24 h of poisoning. 4. It is concluded that modeccin penetrates inside hepatocytes in vivo, and damages ribosomes in the same manner as it does in vitro. However, mitochondrial damage indicates that ribosomes may not be the only target of modeccin in vivo.", "contents": "Effect of modeccin on rat liver ribosomes in vivo. 1. Rat liver microsomes isolated at 6 and 12 h of poisoning with 3 x LD50 (0.3 microgram/100 g body wt.) of modeccin, the toxin of Adenia digitata, have a decreased capacity of protein synthesis in vitro. 2. A similar decrease of protein synthesis is observed with polysomes at 6 h of poisoning. Experiments with recombined ribosomal subunits demonstrate that this is due to inactivation of the 60 S ribosomal subunit. 3. At 6 h of poisoning there is a marked vesiculation and degranulation of the hepatocyte rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is completely fragmented at 24 h of poisoning. Hepatocyte mitochondria are swollen at 6 h and shrunk at 24 h of poisoning. 4. It is concluded that modeccin penetrates inside hepatocytes in vivo, and damages ribosomes in the same manner as it does in vitro. However, mitochondrial damage indicates that ribosomes may not be the only target of modeccin in vivo.", "PMID": 454613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11245", "title": "Development of the nitrogen-fixing and protein-synthesizing apparatus of bacteroids in pea root nodules.", "content": "Some aspects of root nodule development of Pisum sativum inoculated with Rhizobium leguminosarum were examined. 1. Nitrogenase activity (measured as acetylene reduction) appears to be preceded by leghemoglobin synthesis (measured immunologically). 2. Syntheses of component I and component II of nitrogenase are not strictly coordinated. Synthesis of component I starts before component II. 3. Plant and bacteroid protein synthesis (measured by [35S]sulfate labeling) in root nodules declines rapidly during nodule development. Corresponding with this decline is a decrease in quantity and quality of rRNA.", "contents": "Development of the nitrogen-fixing and protein-synthesizing apparatus of bacteroids in pea root nodules. Some aspects of root nodule development of Pisum sativum inoculated with Rhizobium leguminosarum were examined. 1. Nitrogenase activity (measured as acetylene reduction) appears to be preceded by leghemoglobin synthesis (measured immunologically). 2. Syntheses of component I and component II of nitrogenase are not strictly coordinated. Synthesis of component I starts before component II. 3. Plant and bacteroid protein synthesis (measured by [35S]sulfate labeling) in root nodules declines rapidly during nodule development. Corresponding with this decline is a decrease in quantity and quality of rRNA.", "PMID": 454614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11246", "title": "The principles of enzyme stabilization. IV. Modification of 'key' functional groups in the tertiary structure of proteins.", "content": "The dependence of alpha-chymotrypsin thermostability and catalytic activity on the degree of its amino groups modification has been studied. Modification was carried out by both alkylation (using acrolein with further reduction of Schiff bases by sodium borohydride) and acylation (with siccinic or acetic anhydrides). It has been determined that modification of the majority of titrated amino groups (approximately 80%) only has a slight effect on the first-order rate-constant characterizing the monomolecular process of enzyme thermoinactivation (50 degrees C, pH 8). Thermostability sharply increases (by 120 times) only for a degree of modification higher than 80%, but, nevertheless, the complete substitution of all the titrated amino groups again leads to enzyme destabilization. The conclusion has been drawn that there is only one or two amino groups out out approximately fifteen titrated ones, the modification of which plays a key role in the lateration by the enzyme of its thermostability. The degree of the stabilization effect has been studied relative to both the nature and concentration of the salt added Na2SO4, NaCl, KCl, CCl3COOK, (CH3)4NBr. Ultraviolet absorption (280 nm) of chymotrypsin has also been elucidated with respect to the degree of alkylation of its NH2-groups. The data obtained allowed the conclusion to be drawn that enzyme modification leads to a decrease in the non-electrostatic (hydrophobic) interactions on the surface layer of the globule. As a result, a protein conformation more stable in respect to denaturation (unfolding), is formed.", "contents": "The principles of enzyme stabilization. IV. Modification of 'key' functional groups in the tertiary structure of proteins. The dependence of alpha-chymotrypsin thermostability and catalytic activity on the degree of its amino groups modification has been studied. Modification was carried out by both alkylation (using acrolein with further reduction of Schiff bases by sodium borohydride) and acylation (with siccinic or acetic anhydrides). It has been determined that modification of the majority of titrated amino groups (approximately 80%) only has a slight effect on the first-order rate-constant characterizing the monomolecular process of enzyme thermoinactivation (50 degrees C, pH 8). Thermostability sharply increases (by 120 times) only for a degree of modification higher than 80%, but, nevertheless, the complete substitution of all the titrated amino groups again leads to enzyme destabilization. The conclusion has been drawn that there is only one or two amino groups out out approximately fifteen titrated ones, the modification of which plays a key role in the lateration by the enzyme of its thermostability. The degree of the stabilization effect has been studied relative to both the nature and concentration of the salt added Na2SO4, NaCl, KCl, CCl3COOK, (CH3)4NBr. Ultraviolet absorption (280 nm) of chymotrypsin has also been elucidated with respect to the degree of alkylation of its NH2-groups. The data obtained allowed the conclusion to be drawn that enzyme modification leads to a decrease in the non-electrostatic (hydrophobic) interactions on the surface layer of the globule. As a result, a protein conformation more stable in respect to denaturation (unfolding), is formed.", "PMID": 454615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11247", "title": "Isolation and characterization of mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase from porcine tissue.", "content": "Mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase L-alanine:2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase, EC 2.6.1.2) has been isolated in homogeneous form from both porcine liver and kidney cortex, but in low yield. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the purified enzyme in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate or 8 M urea gave a single band. An isoelectric point of 8.5 +/- 0.5 and a molecular weight of 75--80 000 were obtained. The enzyme is specific for L-alanine and is inhibited by D-alanine, aminooxyacetate and cyclosterine. The Km for pyruvate and glutamate is 0.4 mM and 32 mM, respectively. These values are similar to those determined for the cytoplasmic enzyme; however, at high concentrations, both compounds strongly inhibit the mitochondrial enzyme, an inhibition not observed with cytosolic alanine aminotransferase. These characteristics and the fact that the mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase was inactivated by procedures effective in the preparation of the cytosolic enzyme, clearly differentiate the two proteins and further support different roles for the two alanine aminotransferases in vivo.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase from porcine tissue. Mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase L-alanine:2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase, EC 2.6.1.2) has been isolated in homogeneous form from both porcine liver and kidney cortex, but in low yield. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the purified enzyme in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate or 8 M urea gave a single band. An isoelectric point of 8.5 +/- 0.5 and a molecular weight of 75--80 000 were obtained. The enzyme is specific for L-alanine and is inhibited by D-alanine, aminooxyacetate and cyclosterine. The Km for pyruvate and glutamate is 0.4 mM and 32 mM, respectively. These values are similar to those determined for the cytoplasmic enzyme; however, at high concentrations, both compounds strongly inhibit the mitochondrial enzyme, an inhibition not observed with cytosolic alanine aminotransferase. These characteristics and the fact that the mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase was inactivated by procedures effective in the preparation of the cytosolic enzyme, clearly differentiate the two proteins and further support different roles for the two alanine aminotransferases in vivo.", "PMID": 454616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11248", "title": "Isolation of a branched-chain alpha-keto acid decarboxylase from rat liver.", "content": "An enzyme which catalyses oxidative decarboxylation of branched-chain alpha-keto acids was extracted from rat liver mitochondria with the aid of NaClO4. Purification yielded a product which appeared homogenous upon electrophoresis. Some kinetic data are reported; however, the enzyme is inactive with alpha-ketoisovalerate. The tenacity of binding to mitochondria, specificity, and other features, suggest that the decarboxylase may be a component of an enzyme complex named alpha-ketoisocaproate: alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate dehydrogenase.", "contents": "Isolation of a branched-chain alpha-keto acid decarboxylase from rat liver. An enzyme which catalyses oxidative decarboxylation of branched-chain alpha-keto acids was extracted from rat liver mitochondria with the aid of NaClO4. Purification yielded a product which appeared homogenous upon electrophoresis. Some kinetic data are reported; however, the enzyme is inactive with alpha-ketoisovalerate. The tenacity of binding to mitochondria, specificity, and other features, suggest that the decarboxylase may be a component of an enzyme complex named alpha-ketoisocaproate: alpha-keto-beta-methylvalerate dehydrogenase.", "PMID": 454617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11249", "title": "Transfer of persulfide sulfur from thiocystine to rhodanese.", "content": "THiocystine (bis-[2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]trisulfide) is a natural substrate for rhodanese (thiosulfate:cyanide sulfurtransferase, EC 2.8.1.1). Analogs of thiocystine were prepared by eliminating the carboxyl or amino group or by lengthening the carbon chain. Of these only homothiocystine (bis-[2-amino-2-carboxypropyl]trisulfide) had appreciable activity as a substrate. At pH 8.6, the optimum for rhodanese, transfer of sulfane sulfur to cyanide in the presence of rhodanese was nonspecific. Only the sulfane sulfur of 35S-labeled thiocystine was transferred to rhodanese. Thus, thiocystine and thiosulfate both produce a rhodanese persulfide as a stable intermediate in sulfur transfer.", "contents": "Transfer of persulfide sulfur from thiocystine to rhodanese. THiocystine (bis-[2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]trisulfide) is a natural substrate for rhodanese (thiosulfate:cyanide sulfurtransferase, EC 2.8.1.1). Analogs of thiocystine were prepared by eliminating the carboxyl or amino group or by lengthening the carbon chain. Of these only homothiocystine (bis-[2-amino-2-carboxypropyl]trisulfide) had appreciable activity as a substrate. At pH 8.6, the optimum for rhodanese, transfer of sulfane sulfur to cyanide in the presence of rhodanese was nonspecific. Only the sulfane sulfur of 35S-labeled thiocystine was transferred to rhodanese. Thus, thiocystine and thiosulfate both produce a rhodanese persulfide as a stable intermediate in sulfur transfer.", "PMID": 454618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11250", "title": "Functional identity of catalytic subunits of acetylcholinesterase.", "content": "11 S acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) from the electric eel Electrophorus electricus essentially consists of four catalytic subunits which appear to be identical structurally but to be assembled with slight asymmetry. During isolation and storage of the enzyme, proteolysis cleaves a portion of the subunits into major fragments containing the active site and minor fragments containing no active sites without change in the enzyme molecular weight. A previous report (Gentinetta, R. and Brodbeck, U. (1976) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 438 437--448) indicated that the intact and the fragmented subunits reacted with diisopropylfluorophosphate at different rates and that the reaction rate in the presence of excess phosphorylating agent was not strictly first order. Those findings could not be reproduced in this report. Intact and fragmented subunits were observed to react at the same rate with diisopropylfluorophosphate. In addition, the overall reaction kinetics both of 11 S and 18 S plus 14 S acetylcholinesterase were found to be strictly first order in the presence of an excess of diisopropylfluorophosphate throughout the course of reaction. These results are consistent with several previous reports that only one type of active site can be detected in acetylcholinesterase. The proteolysis which fragments a portion of the catalytic subunit has no apparent effect on the catalytic properties of the enzyme.", "contents": "Functional identity of catalytic subunits of acetylcholinesterase. 11 S acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) from the electric eel Electrophorus electricus essentially consists of four catalytic subunits which appear to be identical structurally but to be assembled with slight asymmetry. During isolation and storage of the enzyme, proteolysis cleaves a portion of the subunits into major fragments containing the active site and minor fragments containing no active sites without change in the enzyme molecular weight. A previous report (Gentinetta, R. and Brodbeck, U. (1976) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 438 437--448) indicated that the intact and the fragmented subunits reacted with diisopropylfluorophosphate at different rates and that the reaction rate in the presence of excess phosphorylating agent was not strictly first order. Those findings could not be reproduced in this report. Intact and fragmented subunits were observed to react at the same rate with diisopropylfluorophosphate. In addition, the overall reaction kinetics both of 11 S and 18 S plus 14 S acetylcholinesterase were found to be strictly first order in the presence of an excess of diisopropylfluorophosphate throughout the course of reaction. These results are consistent with several previous reports that only one type of active site can be detected in acetylcholinesterase. The proteolysis which fragments a portion of the catalytic subunit has no apparent effect on the catalytic properties of the enzyme.", "PMID": 454619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11251", "title": "A mechanistic model for butyrylcholinesterase.", "content": "A plausible mechanism of action of horse serum butyrylcholinesterase is proposed. It includes substrate activation at the level of deacylation. The rate constant for the acylation of the enzyme appears to be much greater than the rate constant for the deacylation, at low substate concentrations. At higher substrate concentrations the rate constants become more similar. No interaction between the four subunits in binding of inhibitors or in the catalysis was observed. There is one esteratic and one anionic site per subunit apparent from labelling studies with [32P]diisopropylfluorophosphate and binding studies with N-methylacridine. Although the tetrametric form of the enzyme appears to be the native one, the monomeric and several other aggregated and dissociated states are catalytically active.", "contents": "A mechanistic model for butyrylcholinesterase. A plausible mechanism of action of horse serum butyrylcholinesterase is proposed. It includes substrate activation at the level of deacylation. The rate constant for the acylation of the enzyme appears to be much greater than the rate constant for the deacylation, at low substate concentrations. At higher substrate concentrations the rate constants become more similar. No interaction between the four subunits in binding of inhibitors or in the catalysis was observed. There is one esteratic and one anionic site per subunit apparent from labelling studies with [32P]diisopropylfluorophosphate and binding studies with N-methylacridine. Although the tetrametric form of the enzyme appears to be the native one, the monomeric and several other aggregated and dissociated states are catalytically active.", "PMID": 454620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11252", "title": "Disulfide-disulfide interchange catalyzed by a liver supernatant enzyme.", "content": "An enzyme widely distributed in rabbit tissues which catalyzes an interchange between N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine and oxidized glutathione to form the mixed disulfide is described. D-Penicillamine disulfide can be substituted for oxidized glutathione and the mixed disulfide of cysteine and glutathione can serve as the sole substrate giving as one product of interchange, oxidized glutathione. The enzyme is very labile and only limited purification of it has been achieved. The activity increases with increasing pH above 6.6, the Km for N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine is 0.2 mM and for oxidized glutathione 0.8 mM. The enzyme is inhibited by SH reagents with protection against iodoacetamide inactivation provided by N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine. Evidence is presented that disulfide-disulfide interchange enzyme is a different activity from the previously described protein disulfide isomerase and thiol transferase.", "contents": "Disulfide-disulfide interchange catalyzed by a liver supernatant enzyme. An enzyme widely distributed in rabbit tissues which catalyzes an interchange between N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine and oxidized glutathione to form the mixed disulfide is described. D-Penicillamine disulfide can be substituted for oxidized glutathione and the mixed disulfide of cysteine and glutathione can serve as the sole substrate giving as one product of interchange, oxidized glutathione. The enzyme is very labile and only limited purification of it has been achieved. The activity increases with increasing pH above 6.6, the Km for N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine is 0.2 mM and for oxidized glutathione 0.8 mM. The enzyme is inhibited by SH reagents with protection against iodoacetamide inactivation provided by N,N-di-dinitrophenyl-L-cystine. Evidence is presented that disulfide-disulfide interchange enzyme is a different activity from the previously described protein disulfide isomerase and thiol transferase.", "PMID": 454621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11253", "title": "Studies on the chaotropically solubilized arylsulfatase C and estrone sulfatase of sheep brain.", "content": "Arylsulfatase C (aryl-sulfate sulfohydrolase, EC 3.1.6.1) from sheep brain acetone powder was solubilized with the chaotropic agent, KSCN. Anti-chaotropes such as (NH4)2SO4 or sodium citrate significantly enhanced the activity of the solubilized enzyme indicating that hydrophobicity was an important factor influencing the enzyme activity. Dialysis or gel filtration of the solubilized enzyme resulted in a marked loss of activity. 3a dialyzable activator could reconstitute the activity in the presence of the antichaotropes. The activator was purified partially and preliminary studies indicated it to be a low molecular weight peptide. Arylsulfatase C and estrone sulfatase activities were compared in the solubilized enzyme. Estrone sulfatase activity was also increased in the presence of antichaotropes at lower concentration in comparison to arylsulfatase C. It however did not show a requirement for the dialyzable activator. Kinetic studies showed that elevation of enzyme activity by the antichaotropes and activator in the case of arylsulfatase C and by antichaotropes in the case of estrone sulfatase was due to an increase in V with a decrease in Km.", "contents": "Studies on the chaotropically solubilized arylsulfatase C and estrone sulfatase of sheep brain. Arylsulfatase C (aryl-sulfate sulfohydrolase, EC 3.1.6.1) from sheep brain acetone powder was solubilized with the chaotropic agent, KSCN. Anti-chaotropes such as (NH4)2SO4 or sodium citrate significantly enhanced the activity of the solubilized enzyme indicating that hydrophobicity was an important factor influencing the enzyme activity. Dialysis or gel filtration of the solubilized enzyme resulted in a marked loss of activity. 3a dialyzable activator could reconstitute the activity in the presence of the antichaotropes. The activator was purified partially and preliminary studies indicated it to be a low molecular weight peptide. Arylsulfatase C and estrone sulfatase activities were compared in the solubilized enzyme. Estrone sulfatase activity was also increased in the presence of antichaotropes at lower concentration in comparison to arylsulfatase C. It however did not show a requirement for the dialyzable activator. Kinetic studies showed that elevation of enzyme activity by the antichaotropes and activator in the case of arylsulfatase C and by antichaotropes in the case of estrone sulfatase was due to an increase in V with a decrease in Km.", "PMID": 454622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11254", "title": "Acceptor-specific glucuronyl transfer catalyzed by beta-glucuronidase.", "content": "Highly purified rat liver microsomal or lysosomal beta-glucuronidase (beta-D-glucuronide glucuronosohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.31) catalyzes the specific transfer of glucuronly residues from phenyl-beta-D-[U-14C]glucuronide to acceptor sugars. Specificity requirements of acceptor sugars are found to be: pyranose structure, 4C1-conformation and equatorial position of C2 and C3 hydroxyl groups or pyranose structure, 1C4-conformation and equatorial position of C3 and C4 hydroxyl groups. The acceptor capacities of 30 monosaccharides and glycosides including di- and tri- saccharides conform to this prinicple. The specificity of the beta-glucuronidase catalyzed glucuronyl transfer is proved by the exclusive formation of beta-glucuronly (1--3)glycosidic linkages. Glucuronly transfer rates increase with increasing donor substrate and increasing acceptor sugar concentration. In the presence of 1 M acceptor sugar the ratio of the transfer rate to the rate of enzymatic hydrolysis is about 2:1. An 'acceptor substrate binding site' on the surface of the beta-glucuronidase molecule which brings the C3 hydroxyl function of the acceptor sugar close enough to the C1 atom of the glucuronyl residue, is postulated.", "contents": "Acceptor-specific glucuronyl transfer catalyzed by beta-glucuronidase. Highly purified rat liver microsomal or lysosomal beta-glucuronidase (beta-D-glucuronide glucuronosohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.31) catalyzes the specific transfer of glucuronly residues from phenyl-beta-D-[U-14C]glucuronide to acceptor sugars. Specificity requirements of acceptor sugars are found to be: pyranose structure, 4C1-conformation and equatorial position of C2 and C3 hydroxyl groups or pyranose structure, 1C4-conformation and equatorial position of C3 and C4 hydroxyl groups. The acceptor capacities of 30 monosaccharides and glycosides including di- and tri- saccharides conform to this prinicple. The specificity of the beta-glucuronidase catalyzed glucuronyl transfer is proved by the exclusive formation of beta-glucuronly (1--3)glycosidic linkages. Glucuronly transfer rates increase with increasing donor substrate and increasing acceptor sugar concentration. In the presence of 1 M acceptor sugar the ratio of the transfer rate to the rate of enzymatic hydrolysis is about 2:1. An 'acceptor substrate binding site' on the surface of the beta-glucuronidase molecule which brings the C3 hydroxyl function of the acceptor sugar close enough to the C1 atom of the glucuronyl residue, is postulated.", "PMID": 454623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11255", "title": "Hydrolysis of artificial substrates by enterokinase and trypsin and the development of a sensitive specific assay for enterokinase in serum.", "content": "The activities of highly purified human enterokinase (enteropeptidase, EC 3.4.21.9) and bovine trypsin were tested against three synthetic substrates alpha-N-Benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester HCl, alpha-N-Benzoyl-DL-arginine-p-nitroanilide HCl and alpha-N-Benzoyl-DL-arginine-2-naphthylamide HCl. There was no detectable hydrolysis of these substrates by enterokinase whereas the kinetic parameters obtained for trypsin were in close agreement with those previously described by other workers. The values for Km and kcat were dependent on the Ca2+ concentration. Hydrolysis of glycine-tetra-L-aspartyl-L-lysyl-2-naphthylamide (Gly(Asp)4-Lys-Nap) by these protease was also studied. Enterokinase-catalysed hydrolysis obeyed simple steady-state kinetics and values for Km of 0.525 mM and 0.28 mM and for kcat of 21.5 s-1 and 28.3 s-1 were obtained in 0.1 mM and 10 mM Ca2+, respectively. Trypsin-catalysed hydrolysis was complex and the response to Ca2+ was sigmoidal partly due to the lability of trypsin at low Ca2+ concentrations. A sensitive specific assay for enterokinase was developed and applied to the measurement of the enzyme in serum; interference by nonspecific arylamidases was eliminated by the addition of Zn2+.", "contents": "Hydrolysis of artificial substrates by enterokinase and trypsin and the development of a sensitive specific assay for enterokinase in serum. The activities of highly purified human enterokinase (enteropeptidase, EC 3.4.21.9) and bovine trypsin were tested against three synthetic substrates alpha-N-Benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester HCl, alpha-N-Benzoyl-DL-arginine-p-nitroanilide HCl and alpha-N-Benzoyl-DL-arginine-2-naphthylamide HCl. There was no detectable hydrolysis of these substrates by enterokinase whereas the kinetic parameters obtained for trypsin were in close agreement with those previously described by other workers. The values for Km and kcat were dependent on the Ca2+ concentration. Hydrolysis of glycine-tetra-L-aspartyl-L-lysyl-2-naphthylamide (Gly(Asp)4-Lys-Nap) by these protease was also studied. Enterokinase-catalysed hydrolysis obeyed simple steady-state kinetics and values for Km of 0.525 mM and 0.28 mM and for kcat of 21.5 s-1 and 28.3 s-1 were obtained in 0.1 mM and 10 mM Ca2+, respectively. Trypsin-catalysed hydrolysis was complex and the response to Ca2+ was sigmoidal partly due to the lability of trypsin at low Ca2+ concentrations. A sensitive specific assay for enterokinase was developed and applied to the measurement of the enzyme in serum; interference by nonspecific arylamidases was eliminated by the addition of Zn2+.", "PMID": 454624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11256", "title": "Differential effects of manganese ions on Blastocladiella emersonii adenylate cyclase.", "content": "Adenylate cyclase (ATP pyrophosphate-lyase (cyclizing), EC 4.6.1.1) activity in Blastocladiella emersonii is associated with particulate subcellar fractions. Solubilization after treatment with detergent suggests its localization in a membrane fraction of the zoospore homogenate. The enzyme specifically requires Mn2+ for activity and is not stimulated by NaF. The kinetic characteristics of substrate utilization by B. emersonii adenylate cyclase were investigated with various concentrations of ATP and Mn2+, and in the presence of inhibitors. Plots of enzyme activity versus the actual concentration of the MnATP2- complex give sigmoid curves. An excess of Mn2+ activates the enzyme at low concentrations of substrate and leads to a modification of the enzyme kinetics. The nucleotides 5'-AMP and GTP were shown to be competitive inhibitors of the enzyme. In addition, kinetic data, obtained under conditions in which an inhibitor (ATP) is added in constant proportion to the variable substrate (MnATP2-) concentration, produced reciprocal plots that were linear and intersecting to the right of the ordinate, and secondary replots that were hyperbolic. These kinetic patterns support a model in which: MnATP2- is the substrate; free Mn2+ is an activator at low substrate concentrations, but an inhibitor at high substrate concentrations; and free ATP is not an efficient inhibiyor (Ki greater than 1.10(-4) M).", "contents": "Differential effects of manganese ions on Blastocladiella emersonii adenylate cyclase. Adenylate cyclase (ATP pyrophosphate-lyase (cyclizing), EC 4.6.1.1) activity in Blastocladiella emersonii is associated with particulate subcellar fractions. Solubilization after treatment with detergent suggests its localization in a membrane fraction of the zoospore homogenate. The enzyme specifically requires Mn2+ for activity and is not stimulated by NaF. The kinetic characteristics of substrate utilization by B. emersonii adenylate cyclase were investigated with various concentrations of ATP and Mn2+, and in the presence of inhibitors. Plots of enzyme activity versus the actual concentration of the MnATP2- complex give sigmoid curves. An excess of Mn2+ activates the enzyme at low concentrations of substrate and leads to a modification of the enzyme kinetics. The nucleotides 5'-AMP and GTP were shown to be competitive inhibitors of the enzyme. In addition, kinetic data, obtained under conditions in which an inhibitor (ATP) is added in constant proportion to the variable substrate (MnATP2-) concentration, produced reciprocal plots that were linear and intersecting to the right of the ordinate, and secondary replots that were hyperbolic. These kinetic patterns support a model in which: MnATP2- is the substrate; free Mn2+ is an activator at low substrate concentrations, but an inhibitor at high substrate concentrations; and free ATP is not an efficient inhibiyor (Ki greater than 1.10(-4) M).", "PMID": 454626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11257", "title": "The digestion of the oxidized B chain of insulin by human neutrophile proteases: elastase and chymotrypsin-like protease.", "content": "The specificities of human neutrophile elastase and chymotrypsin-like protease towards oxidized insulin B chain were studied. The neutrophile elastase was found to differ from porcine pancreatic elastase in its specificity towards insulin B chain. The neutrophile elastase preferred mostly valine near the cleaved bond in contrast to pancreatic elastase which preferred alanine as well as valine near the cleaved bond. Human neutrophile chymotrypsin-like protease was found to cleave mostly bonds involving leucine and phenylalanine.", "contents": "The digestion of the oxidized B chain of insulin by human neutrophile proteases: elastase and chymotrypsin-like protease. The specificities of human neutrophile elastase and chymotrypsin-like protease towards oxidized insulin B chain were studied. The neutrophile elastase was found to differ from porcine pancreatic elastase in its specificity towards insulin B chain. The neutrophile elastase preferred mostly valine near the cleaved bond in contrast to pancreatic elastase which preferred alanine as well as valine near the cleaved bond. Human neutrophile chymotrypsin-like protease was found to cleave mostly bonds involving leucine and phenylalanine.", "PMID": 454627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11258", "title": "A new procedure to derive weighting factors for nonlinear regression analysis applied to enzyme kinetic data.", "content": "The experimental variance of enzymic steady-state kinetic experiments depends on velocity as approximated by a power function (Var(v) = K1 . valpha (Askel\u00f6f, P., Korsfeldt, M. and Mannervik, B. (1976) Eur. J. Biochem. 69, 61--67). The values of the constants (K1, alpha) can be estimated by making replicate measurements of velocity, and the inverse of the function can then be used as a weighting factor. In order to avoid measurement of a large number of replicates to establish the error structure of a kinetic data set, a different approach was tested. After a preliminary regression using a 'good model', which satisfies reasonable goodness-of-fit criteria, the residuals were taken to represent the experimental error. The neighbouring residuals were grouped together and the sum of their mean squared values was used as a measure of the variance in the neighbourhood of the corresponding measurements. The values of the constants obtained in this way agreed with those obtained by replicates.", "contents": "A new procedure to derive weighting factors for nonlinear regression analysis applied to enzyme kinetic data. The experimental variance of enzymic steady-state kinetic experiments depends on velocity as approximated by a power function (Var(v) = K1 . valpha (Askel\u00f6f, P., Korsfeldt, M. and Mannervik, B. (1976) Eur. J. Biochem. 69, 61--67). The values of the constants (K1, alpha) can be estimated by making replicate measurements of velocity, and the inverse of the function can then be used as a weighting factor. In order to avoid measurement of a large number of replicates to establish the error structure of a kinetic data set, a different approach was tested. After a preliminary regression using a 'good model', which satisfies reasonable goodness-of-fit criteria, the residuals were taken to represent the experimental error. The neighbouring residuals were grouped together and the sum of their mean squared values was used as a measure of the variance in the neighbourhood of the corresponding measurements. The values of the constants obtained in this way agreed with those obtained by replicates.", "PMID": 454628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11259", "title": "Role of ions in the regulation of porcine lactate dehydrogenase.", "content": "Different ions affect the H4 and M4 isoenzymes of porcine lactate dehydrogenase (L-lactate: NAD+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.27) in the same way, inhibiting the enzyme at low pyruvate concentrations, whereas at high pyruvate concentrations, the activities were enhanced. The inhibition was competitive with regard to pyruvate and NADH. The enhancement of the enzyme activity at high pyruvate concentration is due to the increase in the Km value for pyruvate, implying that higher substrate concentrations are needed to obtain substrate inhibition. Sulphate behaved differently from the other ions. It inhibited in a noncompetitive manner with regard to pyruvate and did not activate the enzyme at high pryvuate concentration. The effect of ions increased with the size of the anion. The ionic strength was of less importance.", "contents": "Role of ions in the regulation of porcine lactate dehydrogenase. Different ions affect the H4 and M4 isoenzymes of porcine lactate dehydrogenase (L-lactate: NAD+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.27) in the same way, inhibiting the enzyme at low pyruvate concentrations, whereas at high pyruvate concentrations, the activities were enhanced. The inhibition was competitive with regard to pyruvate and NADH. The enhancement of the enzyme activity at high pyruvate concentration is due to the increase in the Km value for pyruvate, implying that higher substrate concentrations are needed to obtain substrate inhibition. Sulphate behaved differently from the other ions. It inhibited in a noncompetitive manner with regard to pyruvate and did not activate the enzyme at high pryvuate concentration. The effect of ions increased with the size of the anion. The ionic strength was of less importance.", "PMID": 454629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11260", "title": "Enzymic cis-trans isomerization of nitrofuran derivatives: isomerizing activity of xanthine oxidase, lipoyl dehydrogenase, DT-diaphorase and liver microsomes.", "content": "Xanthine oxidase (xanthine:oxygen oxidoreductase, EC 1.2.3.2) supplemented with an electron donor could catalyze the cis-trans isomerization of 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylamide, 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-phenylacrylamide and 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylonitrile. The direction of isomerization (cis leads to trans, cis in equilibrium trans or trans leads to cis) is dependent on the chemical structure of these nitrofuran derivatives. Lipoyl dehydrogenase (NADH:lipoamide oxidereductase, EC 1.6.4.3), DT-diaphorase (NAD(P)H:(quinone-acceptor) oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.99.2) and liver microsomes could also catalyze the conversion of cis-3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylamide to its trans isomer in the presence of an appropriate electron donor. Such isomerizing activity of these enzymes is much higher than their nitro-reducing activity. In addition, the cis-trans isomerization of some nitrofuran derivatives was demonstrated with the liver slices and the small intestines of rats. A new cis-trans isomerization mechanism which is based on transfer of a single electron by an enzyme system to a nitrofuran derivative to give the radical-anion was proposed. This postulated mechanism was supported by the preliminary experiments using pulse radiolysis technique.", "contents": "Enzymic cis-trans isomerization of nitrofuran derivatives: isomerizing activity of xanthine oxidase, lipoyl dehydrogenase, DT-diaphorase and liver microsomes. Xanthine oxidase (xanthine:oxygen oxidoreductase, EC 1.2.3.2) supplemented with an electron donor could catalyze the cis-trans isomerization of 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylamide, 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-phenylacrylamide and 3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylonitrile. The direction of isomerization (cis leads to trans, cis in equilibrium trans or trans leads to cis) is dependent on the chemical structure of these nitrofuran derivatives. Lipoyl dehydrogenase (NADH:lipoamide oxidereductase, EC 1.6.4.3), DT-diaphorase (NAD(P)H:(quinone-acceptor) oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.99.2) and liver microsomes could also catalyze the conversion of cis-3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-(2-furyl)acrylamide to its trans isomer in the presence of an appropriate electron donor. Such isomerizing activity of these enzymes is much higher than their nitro-reducing activity. In addition, the cis-trans isomerization of some nitrofuran derivatives was demonstrated with the liver slices and the small intestines of rats. A new cis-trans isomerization mechanism which is based on transfer of a single electron by an enzyme system to a nitrofuran derivative to give the radical-anion was proposed. This postulated mechanism was supported by the preliminary experiments using pulse radiolysis technique.", "PMID": 454630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11261", "title": "Insulin degradation. XXV. Glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase activity of rat liver and kidney during the development of streptozotocin-diabetes.", "content": "The activity of glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase (glutathione:protein-disulfide oxidoreductase, EC 1.8.4.2) in the liver and kidneys of rats during the development of streptozotocin-induced diabetes has been studied. Following a single injection of streptozotocin, the transhydrogenase activity fell rapidly for 7-8 days and then gradually with time in both organs. In contrast to the control rats where approximately 25% of the enzyme is in a 'latent' state, nearly all the transhydrogenase activity in the diabetic liver appears to be in the free or functional form. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that both hepatic and renal glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase activity are under feedback control by circulating insulin. The possibility is discussed that the latent state may represent a storage form of the enzyme, which in insulin-insufficiency states is mobilized to the free or functional form for cell function.", "contents": "Insulin degradation. XXV. Glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase activity of rat liver and kidney during the development of streptozotocin-diabetes. The activity of glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase (glutathione:protein-disulfide oxidoreductase, EC 1.8.4.2) in the liver and kidneys of rats during the development of streptozotocin-induced diabetes has been studied. Following a single injection of streptozotocin, the transhydrogenase activity fell rapidly for 7-8 days and then gradually with time in both organs. In contrast to the control rats where approximately 25% of the enzyme is in a 'latent' state, nearly all the transhydrogenase activity in the diabetic liver appears to be in the free or functional form. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that both hepatic and renal glutathione-insulin transhydrogenase activity are under feedback control by circulating insulin. The possibility is discussed that the latent state may represent a storage form of the enzyme, which in insulin-insufficiency states is mobilized to the free or functional form for cell function.", "PMID": 454631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11262", "title": "Studies on the transverse localization of lysophospholipase in bovine liver microsomes using proteolytic enzymes.", "content": "1. Sonication of bovine liver microsomes completely solubilized the membrane-bound lysophospholipase II (EC 3.1.1.5). Co-chromatography with purified 125I-labelled lysophospholipase indicated that the enzyme was solubilized from microsomes in a lipid-free state. 2. In the presence of residual microsomal membranes, the solubilized lysophospholipase could only be partly degraded by trypsin (EC 3.4.21.4). Therefore, trypsin could not be used to study the transmembrane disposition of lysophospholipase in intact microsomes. 3. Chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1) destroyed the solubilized lysophospholipase activity, even in the presence of residual microsomal membranes. 4. Lysophospholipase in intact microsomal vesicles was resistant to chymotrypsin digestion. 5. When microsomal vesicles were made leaky with lysophosphatidylcholine, chymotrypsin destroyed more than 95% of the lysophospholipase activity. 6. It is concluded from these experiments that at least the active center of lysophospholipase is located at the luminal side of the bovine liver microsomal membrane.", "contents": "Studies on the transverse localization of lysophospholipase in bovine liver microsomes using proteolytic enzymes. 1. Sonication of bovine liver microsomes completely solubilized the membrane-bound lysophospholipase II (EC 3.1.1.5). Co-chromatography with purified 125I-labelled lysophospholipase indicated that the enzyme was solubilized from microsomes in a lipid-free state. 2. In the presence of residual microsomal membranes, the solubilized lysophospholipase could only be partly degraded by trypsin (EC 3.4.21.4). Therefore, trypsin could not be used to study the transmembrane disposition of lysophospholipase in intact microsomes. 3. Chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1) destroyed the solubilized lysophospholipase activity, even in the presence of residual microsomal membranes. 4. Lysophospholipase in intact microsomal vesicles was resistant to chymotrypsin digestion. 5. When microsomal vesicles were made leaky with lysophosphatidylcholine, chymotrypsin destroyed more than 95% of the lysophospholipase activity. 6. It is concluded from these experiments that at least the active center of lysophospholipase is located at the luminal side of the bovine liver microsomal membrane.", "PMID": 454632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11263", "title": "Esterification of exogenous and endogenous fatty acids by rat adipocytes in vitro.", "content": "Rat adipocytes were used in vivo to compare the esterification of exogenous fatty acids and fatty acids formed de novo from glucose or acetate. Pure single fatty acids added to the medium were esterified at comparable rates but marked differences were observed when the same acids were supplied as components of a fatty acid mixture of a composition similar to that in the tissue. Fatty acids synthesised de novo from acetate by adipocytes in a medium containing high concentrations of acetate were located predominantly in diacylglycerols. The effect was most marked with adipocytes from older rats and was enhanced by the presence of exogenous long-chain fatty acids. Exogenous oleic acid was esterified predominantly into triacylglycerols at all concentrations of acetate. No such accumulation of endogenously-synthesised fatty acids in diacylglycerols occurred when glucose was the precursor for fatty acid synthesis. The diacylglycerols formed were almost entirely of the sn-1,2-configuration.", "contents": "Esterification of exogenous and endogenous fatty acids by rat adipocytes in vitro. Rat adipocytes were used in vivo to compare the esterification of exogenous fatty acids and fatty acids formed de novo from glucose or acetate. Pure single fatty acids added to the medium were esterified at comparable rates but marked differences were observed when the same acids were supplied as components of a fatty acid mixture of a composition similar to that in the tissue. Fatty acids synthesised de novo from acetate by adipocytes in a medium containing high concentrations of acetate were located predominantly in diacylglycerols. The effect was most marked with adipocytes from older rats and was enhanced by the presence of exogenous long-chain fatty acids. Exogenous oleic acid was esterified predominantly into triacylglycerols at all concentrations of acetate. No such accumulation of endogenously-synthesised fatty acids in diacylglycerols occurred when glucose was the precursor for fatty acid synthesis. The diacylglycerols formed were almost entirely of the sn-1,2-configuration.", "PMID": 454633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11264", "title": "Palmitoyl coenzyme A synthetase activation by uncomplexed ATP.", "content": "Uncomplexed ATP, ADP, alpha, beta-methylene ATP and adenosinetetraphosphate were shown to activate long chain fatty acyl-coenzyme A synthetase. The presence of uncomplexed nucleotides was shown: (1) to induce the palmitoyl-AMP-dependent palmitoyl-coenzyme A formation, (2) to activate the MgATP-dependent overall reaction and (3) to stabilize the synthetase against ageing denaturation. In all three cases the observed nucleotide activation was shown to be eliminated upon metal chelation.", "contents": "Palmitoyl coenzyme A synthetase activation by uncomplexed ATP. Uncomplexed ATP, ADP, alpha, beta-methylene ATP and adenosinetetraphosphate were shown to activate long chain fatty acyl-coenzyme A synthetase. The presence of uncomplexed nucleotides was shown: (1) to induce the palmitoyl-AMP-dependent palmitoyl-coenzyme A formation, (2) to activate the MgATP-dependent overall reaction and (3) to stabilize the synthetase against ageing denaturation. In all three cases the observed nucleotide activation was shown to be eliminated upon metal chelation.", "PMID": 454634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11265", "title": "Purification and properties of a lipolytic acyl-hydrolase from potato leaves.", "content": "A lipolytic acyl-hydrolase was purified 520-fold from an homogenate of potato leaves (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Benimaru). The purified enzyme showed a single protein band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The enzyme had an isoelectric point of 4.6 and a molecular weight of about 110,000. It had pH optima of 5.5 and 5.0, and Km values of 0.26 and 0.54 mM for monogalactosyldiacylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine, respectively. The pH dependences were altered by the addition of Triton X-100. No separation of these two hydrolyzing activities was achieved; the ratio of the specific activity of galactolipase to that of phospholipase (about 7/1) remained constant throughout the purification procedures. Both the activities were changed in parallel with each other by the addition of reagents and by heat treatment. The enzyme clearly catalyzed the deacylation of the several classes of galacto- and phospholipids. These results suggest that a single enzyme is responsible for both activities.", "contents": "Purification and properties of a lipolytic acyl-hydrolase from potato leaves. A lipolytic acyl-hydrolase was purified 520-fold from an homogenate of potato leaves (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Benimaru). The purified enzyme showed a single protein band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The enzyme had an isoelectric point of 4.6 and a molecular weight of about 110,000. It had pH optima of 5.5 and 5.0, and Km values of 0.26 and 0.54 mM for monogalactosyldiacylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine, respectively. The pH dependences were altered by the addition of Triton X-100. No separation of these two hydrolyzing activities was achieved; the ratio of the specific activity of galactolipase to that of phospholipase (about 7/1) remained constant throughout the purification procedures. Both the activities were changed in parallel with each other by the addition of reagents and by heat treatment. The enzyme clearly catalyzed the deacylation of the several classes of galacto- and phospholipids. These results suggest that a single enzyme is responsible for both activities.", "PMID": 454635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11266", "title": "alpha-Hydroxylation of newly synthesised fatty acids by a soluble fraction from germinating pea.", "content": "A soluble fraction from germinating pea (Pisum sativum) seeds alpha-hydroxylated newly-synthesised fatty acids to form alpha-hydroxypalmitic and alpha-hydroxystearic acids. In contrast to fatty acid synthesis from [14C] malonyl CoA, alpha-hydroxylation was inhibited by exogenous phospholipids. alpha-Hydroxylation was optimal at pH 8, required reduced pyridine nucleotides and was inhibited by EDTA and imidazole.", "contents": "alpha-Hydroxylation of newly synthesised fatty acids by a soluble fraction from germinating pea. A soluble fraction from germinating pea (Pisum sativum) seeds alpha-hydroxylated newly-synthesised fatty acids to form alpha-hydroxypalmitic and alpha-hydroxystearic acids. In contrast to fatty acid synthesis from [14C] malonyl CoA, alpha-hydroxylation was inhibited by exogenous phospholipids. alpha-Hydroxylation was optimal at pH 8, required reduced pyridine nucleotides and was inhibited by EDTA and imidazole.", "PMID": 454636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11267", "title": "Methyl-directed desaturation of arachidonic to eicosapentaenoic acid in the fungus, Saprolegnia parasitica.", "content": "The lipids of Saprolegnia parasitica contain 5,8,11,14,17-eicosapentaenoic acid as major constituent. No other acid having (n-3) structure was detected, but 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic (arachidonic) acid and its common precursors of (n-6) structure are present in significant amounts. During rapid growth of the organism, [1-14C]acetate was efficiently incorporated into fatty acids. Arachidonic acid was labeled after 2 h to nearly the same extent as any precursor acid and 14C in eicosapentaenoic acid reached this level within 6 h. Results of incubations with labeled fatty acids indicated that, in S. parasitica, oleic, linoleic, (6,9,12)-linolenic and arachidonic acids are major intermediates in the pathway to eicosapentaenoic acid. Methyl-directed desaturation of (n-6) to (n-3) acids does not occur with C18 acids but is specific for the polyunsaturated C20 chain length. Arachidonic acid is the direct precursor of eicosapentaenoic acid.", "contents": "Methyl-directed desaturation of arachidonic to eicosapentaenoic acid in the fungus, Saprolegnia parasitica. The lipids of Saprolegnia parasitica contain 5,8,11,14,17-eicosapentaenoic acid as major constituent. No other acid having (n-3) structure was detected, but 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic (arachidonic) acid and its common precursors of (n-6) structure are present in significant amounts. During rapid growth of the organism, [1-14C]acetate was efficiently incorporated into fatty acids. Arachidonic acid was labeled after 2 h to nearly the same extent as any precursor acid and 14C in eicosapentaenoic acid reached this level within 6 h. Results of incubations with labeled fatty acids indicated that, in S. parasitica, oleic, linoleic, (6,9,12)-linolenic and arachidonic acids are major intermediates in the pathway to eicosapentaenoic acid. Methyl-directed desaturation of (n-6) to (n-3) acids does not occur with C18 acids but is specific for the polyunsaturated C20 chain length. Arachidonic acid is the direct precursor of eicosapentaenoic acid.", "PMID": 454637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11268", "title": "Studies on the covalent binding of an intermediate(s) in prostaglandin biosynthesis to tissue macromolecules.", "content": "We investigated the covalent binding of intermediates in prostaglandin biosynthesis to tissue macromolecules. Following incubation of [1-14C]arachidonic acid with the microsomal fraction from guinea pig lung, ram or bovine seminal vesicle, human platelets, rabbit kidney, or rat stomach fundus, the amount of covalent binding of arachidonic acid metabolites expressed as percentage of total arachidonic acid metabolized varied from tissue to tissue ranging from 3% in human platelets to 18.2% in ram seminal vesicles. In general, the thromboxane synthesizing tissues had less covalently bound metabolites than the other tissues. The amount of covalently bound metabolites was increased in the guinea pig lung microsomes when the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, N-0164, was added to the incubation mixture. The covalent binding of arachidonic acid metabolite(s) was greatly reduced by the addition of glutathione to the incubation mixture. In addition to the covalently bound metabolites, water-soluble metabolites derived from arachidonic acid metabolism were also observed. The amount of water-soluble metabolites was small in each tissue except for the rat stomach fundus. In the rat stomach fundus the water-soluble metabolites accounted for over 50% of the total metabolites. Conditions which would tend to increase or decrease the levels of free prostaglandin endoperoxides during the incubation of arachidonic acid with the microsomes gave increased or decreased levels of covalent binding. Our data suggest that the prostaglandin endoperoxides are responsible for the covalent binding observed during prostaglandin biosynthesis. This covalent binding to tissue macromolecules may be of physiological and pathological significance.", "contents": "Studies on the covalent binding of an intermediate(s) in prostaglandin biosynthesis to tissue macromolecules. We investigated the covalent binding of intermediates in prostaglandin biosynthesis to tissue macromolecules. Following incubation of [1-14C]arachidonic acid with the microsomal fraction from guinea pig lung, ram or bovine seminal vesicle, human platelets, rabbit kidney, or rat stomach fundus, the amount of covalent binding of arachidonic acid metabolites expressed as percentage of total arachidonic acid metabolized varied from tissue to tissue ranging from 3% in human platelets to 18.2% in ram seminal vesicles. In general, the thromboxane synthesizing tissues had less covalently bound metabolites than the other tissues. The amount of covalently bound metabolites was increased in the guinea pig lung microsomes when the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, N-0164, was added to the incubation mixture. The covalent binding of arachidonic acid metabolite(s) was greatly reduced by the addition of glutathione to the incubation mixture. In addition to the covalently bound metabolites, water-soluble metabolites derived from arachidonic acid metabolism were also observed. The amount of water-soluble metabolites was small in each tissue except for the rat stomach fundus. In the rat stomach fundus the water-soluble metabolites accounted for over 50% of the total metabolites. Conditions which would tend to increase or decrease the levels of free prostaglandin endoperoxides during the incubation of arachidonic acid with the microsomes gave increased or decreased levels of covalent binding. Our data suggest that the prostaglandin endoperoxides are responsible for the covalent binding observed during prostaglandin biosynthesis. This covalent binding to tissue macromolecules may be of physiological and pathological significance.", "PMID": 454638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11269", "title": "A new cerebroside from Fusicoccum amygdali Del.", "content": "A homogeneous cerebroside was isolated from a strain of Fusicoccum amygdali Del., a fungus pathogenic to almond and peach. Chemical degradations, together with extensive application of nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry techniques, led to elucidation of its structure. This corresponds to N-2'-hydroxy-3'-trans-octadecenoyl-1-O-beta-D-glucosyl-9-methyl-cis-4,x-8-sphingadienine.", "contents": "A new cerebroside from Fusicoccum amygdali Del. A homogeneous cerebroside was isolated from a strain of Fusicoccum amygdali Del., a fungus pathogenic to almond and peach. Chemical degradations, together with extensive application of nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry techniques, led to elucidation of its structure. This corresponds to N-2'-hydroxy-3'-trans-octadecenoyl-1-O-beta-D-glucosyl-9-methyl-cis-4,x-8-sphingadienine.", "PMID": 454639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11270", "title": "Phospholipase activities in subcellular fractions of human platelets.", "content": "A homogenate of human platelets was fractionated by zonal ultracentrifugation into membranes, various granules and mitochondria. The membrane fraction was composed of two populations. The first, which represented 75% of the proteins, was rich in plasma membranes; the second, which represented the remaining 25%, was rich in microsomal membranes. Lysophospholipase was essentially localised in the cytosol. Phospholipase A1 which was only weakly bound to membranes, was mostly found in the soluble fraction (75%); the remainder was located in the plasma membranes and the mitochondria. Two-thirds of the phospholipase A2 was found in the particulate fractions.", "contents": "Phospholipase activities in subcellular fractions of human platelets. A homogenate of human platelets was fractionated by zonal ultracentrifugation into membranes, various granules and mitochondria. The membrane fraction was composed of two populations. The first, which represented 75% of the proteins, was rich in plasma membranes; the second, which represented the remaining 25%, was rich in microsomal membranes. Lysophospholipase was essentially localised in the cytosol. Phospholipase A1 which was only weakly bound to membranes, was mostly found in the soluble fraction (75%); the remainder was located in the plasma membranes and the mitochondria. Two-thirds of the phospholipase A2 was found in the particulate fractions.", "PMID": 454640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11271", "title": "Short chain ceramides as substrates for glucocerebroside synthetase. Differences between liver and brain enzymes.", "content": "In order to increase the sensitivity of the assay for ceramide: UDPGlc glucosyltransferase, the enzyme that makes glucocerebroside, we synthesized a variety of ceramide homologues that might be better substrates than the naturally occurring ceramides. N-Octanoyl sphingosine proved to be the best lipid tested in liver and brain. It could be added to the tissue homogenate in the dry form, as a thin layer coated on Celite, or in liposomes, prepared from lecithin and cerebroside sulfate. The liposomal form produced better replication of assay values. It is suggested that the addition of cerebroside sulfate to liposomal preparations might be a good, and more physiological, replacement for the commonly used dicetyl phosphate. A new homologue of DL-sphinganine, decasphinganine, was synthesized by an efficient series of steps and acylated with different fatty acids to form ceramide homologues. The best substrate in this series was the lauroyl amide and it is suggested that this lipid be used in cerebroside synthetase assays because of the convenience of preparing it, even though it is not as good as octanoyl sphingosine. Both compounds are distinctly better than natural ceramide or DL-sphinganine amides. From comparisons of enzyme activity under various conditions, the tentative conclusion is drawn that the enzymes in liver and brain have different properties, and that liver has two different synthetases.", "contents": "Short chain ceramides as substrates for glucocerebroside synthetase. Differences between liver and brain enzymes. In order to increase the sensitivity of the assay for ceramide: UDPGlc glucosyltransferase, the enzyme that makes glucocerebroside, we synthesized a variety of ceramide homologues that might be better substrates than the naturally occurring ceramides. N-Octanoyl sphingosine proved to be the best lipid tested in liver and brain. It could be added to the tissue homogenate in the dry form, as a thin layer coated on Celite, or in liposomes, prepared from lecithin and cerebroside sulfate. The liposomal form produced better replication of assay values. It is suggested that the addition of cerebroside sulfate to liposomal preparations might be a good, and more physiological, replacement for the commonly used dicetyl phosphate. A new homologue of DL-sphinganine, decasphinganine, was synthesized by an efficient series of steps and acylated with different fatty acids to form ceramide homologues. The best substrate in this series was the lauroyl amide and it is suggested that this lipid be used in cerebroside synthetase assays because of the convenience of preparing it, even though it is not as good as octanoyl sphingosine. Both compounds are distinctly better than natural ceramide or DL-sphinganine amides. From comparisons of enzyme activity under various conditions, the tentative conclusion is drawn that the enzymes in liver and brain have different properties, and that liver has two different synthetases.", "PMID": 454641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11272", "title": "Glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids in degenerating BHK cells.", "content": "The phospholipids, which accompany semilysobisphosphatidic acid from degenerating BHK cells, were identified as a mixture of glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids. The identification was based on infrared spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography and ethanolamine content of the intact lipids or their partial degradation products. Sequential treatments with mild acid and alkali revealed the presence of three different derivatives: the most abundant of these was the O-(1-alkenyl) ether derivative (plasmenyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine), which represented 55-60% of the total glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids; the O-alkyl derivative (plasmanyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine) and the di-O-acyl derivative (phosphatidyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine) each represented about 20% of the total.", "contents": "Glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids in degenerating BHK cells. The phospholipids, which accompany semilysobisphosphatidic acid from degenerating BHK cells, were identified as a mixture of glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids. The identification was based on infrared spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography and ethanolamine content of the intact lipids or their partial degradation products. Sequential treatments with mild acid and alkali revealed the presence of three different derivatives: the most abundant of these was the O-(1-alkenyl) ether derivative (plasmenyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine), which represented 55-60% of the total glycerophospho-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine lipids; the O-alkyl derivative (plasmanyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine) and the di-O-acyl derivative (phosphatidyl-(N-acyl)-ethanolamine) each represented about 20% of the total.", "PMID": 454642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11273", "title": "The mechanism of modification by propranolol of the metabolism of phosphatidyl-CMP (CDP-diacylglycerol) and other lipids in the rat pineal gland.", "content": "The mechanism underlying the alteration of phospholipid metabolism in rat pineal gland in vitro produced by propranolol and tertiary amine local anesthetics was investigated. 0.1 mM propranolol did not affect either the levels or specific activity of [32P]ATP in glands. In the presence of the drug, the incorporation of cytidine, but not of inorganic phosphate, into phosphatidyl-CMP (CDP-diacylglycerol) was dependent on the cytidine concentration. The incorporation of glycerol into phosphatidyl-CMP, phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylglycerol was enhanced by propranolol, whereas labeling of phosphatidylcholine was decreased. When both 1 mM propranolol and 1 mM inositol were present, labeling of phosphatidylinositol was further increased, stimulation of phosphatidyl-CMP and phosphatidylglycerol labeling was reduced and incorporation into phosphatidylcholine and triacylglycerol was depressed. The incorporation of [3H]inositol into pineal lipids was also enhanced by propranolol. 10 microM propranolol inhibited rat liver phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase by 50%, while local anesthetics were less potent in the decreasing order: dibucaine greater than tetracaine greater than lidocaine greater than procaine. The propranolol-induced accumulation of phosphatidyl-CMP was prevented by supplying adequate freely diffusible inositol in the medium. The phosphatidyl-CMP which accumulated was not utilized for the enhanced formation of phosphatidylinositol brought about by norepinephrine. The results indicate that propranolol and local anesthetics redirect pineal phospholipid metabolism in part by inhibition of phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase.", "contents": "The mechanism of modification by propranolol of the metabolism of phosphatidyl-CMP (CDP-diacylglycerol) and other lipids in the rat pineal gland. The mechanism underlying the alteration of phospholipid metabolism in rat pineal gland in vitro produced by propranolol and tertiary amine local anesthetics was investigated. 0.1 mM propranolol did not affect either the levels or specific activity of [32P]ATP in glands. In the presence of the drug, the incorporation of cytidine, but not of inorganic phosphate, into phosphatidyl-CMP (CDP-diacylglycerol) was dependent on the cytidine concentration. The incorporation of glycerol into phosphatidyl-CMP, phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylglycerol was enhanced by propranolol, whereas labeling of phosphatidylcholine was decreased. When both 1 mM propranolol and 1 mM inositol were present, labeling of phosphatidylinositol was further increased, stimulation of phosphatidyl-CMP and phosphatidylglycerol labeling was reduced and incorporation into phosphatidylcholine and triacylglycerol was depressed. The incorporation of [3H]inositol into pineal lipids was also enhanced by propranolol. 10 microM propranolol inhibited rat liver phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase by 50%, while local anesthetics were less potent in the decreasing order: dibucaine greater than tetracaine greater than lidocaine greater than procaine. The propranolol-induced accumulation of phosphatidyl-CMP was prevented by supplying adequate freely diffusible inositol in the medium. The phosphatidyl-CMP which accumulated was not utilized for the enhanced formation of phosphatidylinositol brought about by norepinephrine. The results indicate that propranolol and local anesthetics redirect pineal phospholipid metabolism in part by inhibition of phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase.", "PMID": 454643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11274", "title": "Physicochemical and biological properties of glucagon-like polypeptides from porcine colon.", "content": "Polypeptide material displaying glucagon-like immunoreactivity was isolated from porcine colon using immunoaffinity chromatography. The immunoreactive material was tightly bound to high molecular weight proteins but was dissociated by 0.1% w/v sodium dodecyl sulphate solution into immunoreactive components of approximate molecular weights 12,000,8000,5000 and 3000. These components reacted at least 50 times more strongly with antibodies specific for the N-terminal region of glucagon than with antibodies specific for the C-terminal region of glucagon. While the 8000 and 3000 dalton fractions were homogeneous, the 12,000 and 5000 dalton fractions were resolved into multiple bands by isoelectric focusing. The 12,000 dalton fraction was devoid of glycogenolytic and lipolytic activity, was not insulin releasing and showed no ability to bind to receptor sites specific for glucagon on hepatic plasma membranes and to active hepatic adenylate cyclase. The 8000 and 5000 dalton components showed weak lipolytic activity. The possible significance of colonic glucagon-like immunoreactivity relative to pancreatic glucagon and immunoreactivity from other tissues is discussed.", "contents": "Physicochemical and biological properties of glucagon-like polypeptides from porcine colon. Polypeptide material displaying glucagon-like immunoreactivity was isolated from porcine colon using immunoaffinity chromatography. The immunoreactive material was tightly bound to high molecular weight proteins but was dissociated by 0.1% w/v sodium dodecyl sulphate solution into immunoreactive components of approximate molecular weights 12,000,8000,5000 and 3000. These components reacted at least 50 times more strongly with antibodies specific for the N-terminal region of glucagon than with antibodies specific for the C-terminal region of glucagon. While the 8000 and 3000 dalton fractions were homogeneous, the 12,000 and 5000 dalton fractions were resolved into multiple bands by isoelectric focusing. The 12,000 dalton fraction was devoid of glycogenolytic and lipolytic activity, was not insulin releasing and showed no ability to bind to receptor sites specific for glucagon on hepatic plasma membranes and to active hepatic adenylate cyclase. The 8000 and 5000 dalton components showed weak lipolytic activity. The possible significance of colonic glucagon-like immunoreactivity relative to pancreatic glucagon and immunoreactivity from other tissues is discussed.", "PMID": 454644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11275", "title": "Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of human IgM. Differences between 7 S IgM and 19 S IgM and between cell surface 7 S IgM and serum 7 S IgM.", "content": "We have studied the lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of human IgM and have measured the ratio of radioactivity incorporated into the mu chain to that incorporated into the L chain (i.e. the mu/L ratio). Both 7 S and 19 S IgM were examined. The ratio of radioactivity was found to be larger for 7 S IgM than for 19 S IgM for all four of the monoclonal IgM proteins examined. The data suggest that some tyrosines of the mu chain which are buried and not available for iodination in 19 S IgM become exposed on conversion of 19 S IgM to 7 S IgM. The mu/L ratio for the IgM found on the cell surface of RPMI 8392 cells was significantly smaller than the ratios for all of the five 7 S IgM proteins studied in solution. It appears, therefore, that a portion of the mu chain of the cell surface IgM of the RPMI 8392 cells is buried in the membrane.", "contents": "Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of human IgM. Differences between 7 S IgM and 19 S IgM and between cell surface 7 S IgM and serum 7 S IgM. We have studied the lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of human IgM and have measured the ratio of radioactivity incorporated into the mu chain to that incorporated into the L chain (i.e. the mu/L ratio). Both 7 S and 19 S IgM were examined. The ratio of radioactivity was found to be larger for 7 S IgM than for 19 S IgM for all four of the monoclonal IgM proteins examined. The data suggest that some tyrosines of the mu chain which are buried and not available for iodination in 19 S IgM become exposed on conversion of 19 S IgM to 7 S IgM. The mu/L ratio for the IgM found on the cell surface of RPMI 8392 cells was significantly smaller than the ratios for all of the five 7 S IgM proteins studied in solution. It appears, therefore, that a portion of the mu chain of the cell surface IgM of the RPMI 8392 cells is buried in the membrane.", "PMID": 454645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11276", "title": "Separation of cathepsin B1 and related enzymes from rat skeletal muscle.", "content": "Rat muscle was extracted at pH 4 and submitted to gel-filtration on Sephadex G-75 and to chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex. Gel-filtration gave a large peak of activity towards Bz-Arg-NNap with an estimated molecular weight of 25,500. Activity towards Bz-Arg-NH2 was present in this peak and in another peak of molecular weight 45,000. The second peak also hydrolysed benzoyl-glycyl-L-arginine. DEAE-Sephadex gave five peaks of Bz-Arg-NNap hydrolysing activity; all showed thiol dependence. Peaks III, IV and V hydrolysed Z-Ala-Arg-Arg-NNap-OMe rapidly; they also inactivated aldolase and were strongly inhibited by leupeptin. They are probably isoenzymes of cathepsin B1. Peak I showed these properties to a relatively small extent. 7-(N-Benzoyl-DL-argininamide)-4-methylcoumarin appears to be an alternative substrate for cathepsin B1; it was hydrolysed also by peak I, but relatively less rapidly. Peaks I and II were inhibited more than peaks III, IV and V by a muscle extract. Total activity of the Bz-Arg-NH2-hydrolysing enzyme in extensor digitorum longus muscle increased after denervation.", "contents": "Separation of cathepsin B1 and related enzymes from rat skeletal muscle. Rat muscle was extracted at pH 4 and submitted to gel-filtration on Sephadex G-75 and to chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex. Gel-filtration gave a large peak of activity towards Bz-Arg-NNap with an estimated molecular weight of 25,500. Activity towards Bz-Arg-NH2 was present in this peak and in another peak of molecular weight 45,000. The second peak also hydrolysed benzoyl-glycyl-L-arginine. DEAE-Sephadex gave five peaks of Bz-Arg-NNap hydrolysing activity; all showed thiol dependence. Peaks III, IV and V hydrolysed Z-Ala-Arg-Arg-NNap-OMe rapidly; they also inactivated aldolase and were strongly inhibited by leupeptin. They are probably isoenzymes of cathepsin B1. Peak I showed these properties to a relatively small extent. 7-(N-Benzoyl-DL-argininamide)-4-methylcoumarin appears to be an alternative substrate for cathepsin B1; it was hydrolysed also by peak I, but relatively less rapidly. Peaks I and II were inhibited more than peaks III, IV and V by a muscle extract. Total activity of the Bz-Arg-NH2-hydrolysing enzyme in extensor digitorum longus muscle increased after denervation.", "PMID": 454646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11277", "title": "Isolation and characterization of the trypsin inhibitors from winged bean seed (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L) Dc.).", "content": "The trypsin inhibitors from winged bean seed were isolated by affinity chromatography on trypsin-Sepharose 4B and the components fractionated by chromatography on SP-Sephadex C-25 and Sephadex G-100. The major components, inhibitors 2 and 3 were found to be homogeneous proteins with molecular weights of about 20,000. The inhibitors stoichiometrically inhibited bovine trypsin in the molar ratio of 1 : 1 whereas the inhibition of bovine alpha-chymotrypsin was weak and non-stoichiometric. Amino acid analysis indicated that both the inhibitors contain four cysteine residues and are rich in aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, valine and leucine; however, inhibitor 3 lacks histidine and methionine while inhibitor 2 contains one histidine and three methionines. A minor trypsin inhibitor fraction was also isolated which contained at least three proteins with a molecular weight of about 10,000 and a high content of half-cystine.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of the trypsin inhibitors from winged bean seed (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L) Dc.). The trypsin inhibitors from winged bean seed were isolated by affinity chromatography on trypsin-Sepharose 4B and the components fractionated by chromatography on SP-Sephadex C-25 and Sephadex G-100. The major components, inhibitors 2 and 3 were found to be homogeneous proteins with molecular weights of about 20,000. The inhibitors stoichiometrically inhibited bovine trypsin in the molar ratio of 1 : 1 whereas the inhibition of bovine alpha-chymotrypsin was weak and non-stoichiometric. Amino acid analysis indicated that both the inhibitors contain four cysteine residues and are rich in aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, valine and leucine; however, inhibitor 3 lacks histidine and methionine while inhibitor 2 contains one histidine and three methionines. A minor trypsin inhibitor fraction was also isolated which contained at least three proteins with a molecular weight of about 10,000 and a high content of half-cystine.", "PMID": 454647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11278", "title": "Nuclear magnetic resonance studies on a cyclic dodecapeptide analogue of a repeat hexapeptide of tropoelastin: evaluation of secondary structure.", "content": "The cyclododecapeptide, (Ala1-Pro2-Gly3-Val4-Gly5-Val6)2, was synthesized and its secondary structure was evaluated from extensive studies in dimethyl sulphoxide, trifluoroethanol and water using NMR methods. A selective decoupling technique in 13C-NMR has been utilized in order to assign the C=O carbon resonances. Temperature dependence of the peptide NH protons and the solvent perturbation of the peptide NH and C=O resonances show the occurrence in all solvents of a beta-turn (a 10-membered H-bond between the Val4 NH and Ala1 C=O) and a gamma-turn, an 11-membered H-bond between the Gly3 NH and the Gly5 C=O; and a possible 14-membered H-bond between the Ala1 NH and the Val4 C=O in dimethyl sulphoxide and trifluoroethanol. These secondary structural features are compared with the linear polyhexapeptide and found the the beta-turn and the gamma-turn are the common conformational features of these peptide systems.", "contents": "Nuclear magnetic resonance studies on a cyclic dodecapeptide analogue of a repeat hexapeptide of tropoelastin: evaluation of secondary structure. The cyclododecapeptide, (Ala1-Pro2-Gly3-Val4-Gly5-Val6)2, was synthesized and its secondary structure was evaluated from extensive studies in dimethyl sulphoxide, trifluoroethanol and water using NMR methods. A selective decoupling technique in 13C-NMR has been utilized in order to assign the C=O carbon resonances. Temperature dependence of the peptide NH protons and the solvent perturbation of the peptide NH and C=O resonances show the occurrence in all solvents of a beta-turn (a 10-membered H-bond between the Val4 NH and Ala1 C=O) and a gamma-turn, an 11-membered H-bond between the Gly3 NH and the Gly5 C=O; and a possible 14-membered H-bond between the Ala1 NH and the Val4 C=O in dimethyl sulphoxide and trifluoroethanol. These secondary structural features are compared with the linear polyhexapeptide and found the the beta-turn and the gamma-turn are the common conformational features of these peptide systems.", "PMID": 454648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11279", "title": "Circular dichroism and conformational transitions of leucoagglutinin.", "content": "Conformational transitions of leucoagglutinin from kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) were studied by the circular dichroism (CD) probe. The CD spectrum of leucoagglutinin in the far ultraviolet zone was similar to the spectrum of concanavalin A, indicating the presence of high amount of the beta pleated sheet structure. The CD spectrum of the leucoagglutinin in the near ultraviolet zone was similar to the CD spectra of peanut and soybean agglutinins. The conformation of leucoagglutinin was not significantly affected by alkali at pH 9.4 or 10.4; however, at pH 11.2 the conformation was disrupted. Appearance of a new CD band at 255 nm was related to ionized OH groups of tyrosine side chains. Acidification of the strongly alkaline solutions leads to a loss of all near ultraviolet bands and formation of large amounts of pleated sheet structure in this denatured lectin. Native leucoagglutinin was resistant to acid, as only a slight weakening of the CD bands was observed at pH values as low as 2.1 to 2.4. These changes (at pH 2.5--2.8) were facilitated by EDTA, and the demetallized lectin slowly precipitated from these solutions. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) disorganized the native structure of leucoagglutinin, and the secondary structure was reorganized into new conformations of moderate alpha-helix contents. These transitions were strongly promoted by acid, enhancing the helix content to about 30%.", "contents": "Circular dichroism and conformational transitions of leucoagglutinin. Conformational transitions of leucoagglutinin from kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) were studied by the circular dichroism (CD) probe. The CD spectrum of leucoagglutinin in the far ultraviolet zone was similar to the spectrum of concanavalin A, indicating the presence of high amount of the beta pleated sheet structure. The CD spectrum of the leucoagglutinin in the near ultraviolet zone was similar to the CD spectra of peanut and soybean agglutinins. The conformation of leucoagglutinin was not significantly affected by alkali at pH 9.4 or 10.4; however, at pH 11.2 the conformation was disrupted. Appearance of a new CD band at 255 nm was related to ionized OH groups of tyrosine side chains. Acidification of the strongly alkaline solutions leads to a loss of all near ultraviolet bands and formation of large amounts of pleated sheet structure in this denatured lectin. Native leucoagglutinin was resistant to acid, as only a slight weakening of the CD bands was observed at pH values as low as 2.1 to 2.4. These changes (at pH 2.5--2.8) were facilitated by EDTA, and the demetallized lectin slowly precipitated from these solutions. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) disorganized the native structure of leucoagglutinin, and the secondary structure was reorganized into new conformations of moderate alpha-helix contents. These transitions were strongly promoted by acid, enhancing the helix content to about 30%.", "PMID": 454649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11280", "title": "The reactivity of tryptophan residues in proteins. Stopped-flow kinetics of fluorescence quenching.", "content": "The quenching of tryptophan fluorescence by N-bromosuccinamide, studied by the fluorescence stopped-flow technique, was used to compare the reactivities of tryptophan residues in protein molecules. The reaction of N-bromosuccinamide with the indole group of N-acetyltryptophanamide, a model compound for bound tryptophan, followed second-order kinetics with a rate constant of (7.8 +/- 0.8) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1 at 23 degrees C. The rate does not depend on ionic strength or on the pH near neutrality. The non-fluorescent intermediate formed from N-acetyltryptophanamide on the reaction with N-bromosuccinamide appears to be a bromohydrin compound. The second-order rate constant for fluorescence quenching of tryptophan in Gly-Trp-Gly by N-bromosuccinamide was very similar, (8.8 +/- 0.8) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. Apocytochrome c has the conformation of a random coil with the single tryptophan largely exposed to the solvent. The rate constant for the fluorescence quenching of the tryptophan in apocytochrome c by N-bromosuccinamide was (3.7 +/- 0.3) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. The fluorescence quenching by N-bromosuccinamide of the tryptophan residues incorporated in alpha-chymotrypsin at pH 7.0 showed three exponential terms from which the following rate constants were derived: 1.74 . 10(5), 0.56 . 10(5) and 0.11 . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. This protein is known to have eight tryptophan residues in the native state, six residues at the surface, and two buried. Three of the surface tryptophans have the indole rings protruding out of the molecule and may account for the fastest kinetic phase of the quenching process. The intermediate phase may be due to three surface tryptophans whose indole rings point inwards, and the slowest to the two interior tryptophan residues.", "contents": "The reactivity of tryptophan residues in proteins. Stopped-flow kinetics of fluorescence quenching. The quenching of tryptophan fluorescence by N-bromosuccinamide, studied by the fluorescence stopped-flow technique, was used to compare the reactivities of tryptophan residues in protein molecules. The reaction of N-bromosuccinamide with the indole group of N-acetyltryptophanamide, a model compound for bound tryptophan, followed second-order kinetics with a rate constant of (7.8 +/- 0.8) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1 at 23 degrees C. The rate does not depend on ionic strength or on the pH near neutrality. The non-fluorescent intermediate formed from N-acetyltryptophanamide on the reaction with N-bromosuccinamide appears to be a bromohydrin compound. The second-order rate constant for fluorescence quenching of tryptophan in Gly-Trp-Gly by N-bromosuccinamide was very similar, (8.8 +/- 0.8) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. Apocytochrome c has the conformation of a random coil with the single tryptophan largely exposed to the solvent. The rate constant for the fluorescence quenching of the tryptophan in apocytochrome c by N-bromosuccinamide was (3.7 +/- 0.3) . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. The fluorescence quenching by N-bromosuccinamide of the tryptophan residues incorporated in alpha-chymotrypsin at pH 7.0 showed three exponential terms from which the following rate constants were derived: 1.74 . 10(5), 0.56 . 10(5) and 0.11 . 10(5) dm3 . mol-1 . s-1. This protein is known to have eight tryptophan residues in the native state, six residues at the surface, and two buried. Three of the surface tryptophans have the indole rings protruding out of the molecule and may account for the fastest kinetic phase of the quenching process. The intermediate phase may be due to three surface tryptophans whose indole rings point inwards, and the slowest to the two interior tryptophan residues.", "PMID": 454650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11281", "title": "A highly reactive tyrosine residue as part of the indole and benzodiazepine binding site of human serum albumin.", "content": "The interaction of L-tryptophan and four benzodiazepine derivatives with tyrosine-modified human serum albumin was investigated by equilibrium dialysis and circular dichroism measurements. Out of the 18 tyrosine residues of the human serum albumin molecule, only 9 could be modified with tetranitromethane. At least up to a degree of modification of 5, the conformation of human serum albumin was not changed and no crosslinking and fractionation has been found, as revealed from circular dichroism measurements in the far ultraviolet range and from SDS polyacrylamide electrophoresis. The modification of only 2 out of the 9 accessible tyrosine residues of human serum albumin strongly affects the binding of L-tryptophan and diazepam to their common, stereospecific bindining site. This was evidently shown by a reduction of the association constants by more than 90% and by a large reduction of the extrinsic Cotton effects of four benzodiazepines bound to human serum albumin. The numbers of binding sites remained unchanged. Strong evidence was presented that only one tyrosine residue, which reacts faster with tetranitromethane than all others, is mainly involved in the specific indole and benzodiazepine binding site of human serum albumin. The location of this highly reactive tyrosine residue and that of the specific indole and benzodiazepine binding site within the human serum albumin primary structure is discussed.", "contents": "A highly reactive tyrosine residue as part of the indole and benzodiazepine binding site of human serum albumin. The interaction of L-tryptophan and four benzodiazepine derivatives with tyrosine-modified human serum albumin was investigated by equilibrium dialysis and circular dichroism measurements. Out of the 18 tyrosine residues of the human serum albumin molecule, only 9 could be modified with tetranitromethane. At least up to a degree of modification of 5, the conformation of human serum albumin was not changed and no crosslinking and fractionation has been found, as revealed from circular dichroism measurements in the far ultraviolet range and from SDS polyacrylamide electrophoresis. The modification of only 2 out of the 9 accessible tyrosine residues of human serum albumin strongly affects the binding of L-tryptophan and diazepam to their common, stereospecific bindining site. This was evidently shown by a reduction of the association constants by more than 90% and by a large reduction of the extrinsic Cotton effects of four benzodiazepines bound to human serum albumin. The numbers of binding sites remained unchanged. Strong evidence was presented that only one tyrosine residue, which reacts faster with tetranitromethane than all others, is mainly involved in the specific indole and benzodiazepine binding site of human serum albumin. The location of this highly reactive tyrosine residue and that of the specific indole and benzodiazepine binding site within the human serum albumin primary structure is discussed.", "PMID": 454651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11282", "title": "Specific fragmentation of human erythrocyte spectrin by chemical cleavage at cysteine residues.", "content": "Spectrin, isolated from human erythrocyte membrane, was specifically cleaved at the amino side of its cysteine residues by reacting it with 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid at pH 8.0 and incubating the product at pH 9.0. Conditions were developed to obtain quantitative cleavage, with virtually no side reactions due to exposure to the alkaline pH. The solubility and aggregation state of the spectrin fragments in 0.2 M sodium chloride, in 7 M guanidine hydrochloride or in 10 M urea, at pH 8.0, allow separation and partial purification of the fragments by gel filtration or by ion-exchange chromatography. Our results strongly suggest that various parts of the spectrin molecules have similar amino acid compositions. Due to the relatively limited number of fragments, this cleavage method is a promising tool for further elucidation of the structure of spectrin and for understanding its role in the erythrocyte membrane.", "contents": "Specific fragmentation of human erythrocyte spectrin by chemical cleavage at cysteine residues. Spectrin, isolated from human erythrocyte membrane, was specifically cleaved at the amino side of its cysteine residues by reacting it with 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid at pH 8.0 and incubating the product at pH 9.0. Conditions were developed to obtain quantitative cleavage, with virtually no side reactions due to exposure to the alkaline pH. The solubility and aggregation state of the spectrin fragments in 0.2 M sodium chloride, in 7 M guanidine hydrochloride or in 10 M urea, at pH 8.0, allow separation and partial purification of the fragments by gel filtration or by ion-exchange chromatography. Our results strongly suggest that various parts of the spectrin molecules have similar amino acid compositions. Due to the relatively limited number of fragments, this cleavage method is a promising tool for further elucidation of the structure of spectrin and for understanding its role in the erythrocyte membrane.", "PMID": 454652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11283", "title": "Galactose oxidase. An enzyme with lectin properties.", "content": "Galactose oxidase interacts with immobilized D-galactosyl residues and related immobilized and free sugars under the conditions of affinity electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel and agglutinates sialidase-treated human erythrocytes. The agglutination is also inhibited by D-galactose and its derivatives and is temperature dependent. The sugar binding and hemagglutinating activity are preserved after removal of Cu2+ essential for enzymic activity. These properties are very similar to those of some typical lectins; however, a number of D-galactose specific lectins do not possess any detectable galactose oxidase activity.", "contents": "Galactose oxidase. An enzyme with lectin properties. Galactose oxidase interacts with immobilized D-galactosyl residues and related immobilized and free sugars under the conditions of affinity electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel and agglutinates sialidase-treated human erythrocytes. The agglutination is also inhibited by D-galactose and its derivatives and is temperature dependent. The sugar binding and hemagglutinating activity are preserved after removal of Cu2+ essential for enzymic activity. These properties are very similar to those of some typical lectins; however, a number of D-galactose specific lectins do not possess any detectable galactose oxidase activity.", "PMID": 454653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11284", "title": "Properties of Ulex europaeus II lectin isolated by affinity chromatography.", "content": "A lectin was isolated from Ulex europaeus seeds by affinity chromatography on affinity adsorbent prepared by copolymerization of acrylamide, N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide and maleylated hog stomach peptone. The lectin is homogeneous as judged by ultracentrifugation (s20,w = 6.4 S), electrophoretic and gel chromatography criteria; it contains 4.2% neutral sugar and 1.4% glucosamine. Its molecular weight is approx. 110,000 and the molecule consists of two noncovalently linked protomers which are formed by two covalently bound basic subunits (Mr = 30,000). The preparation contains three isolectins differing in the strength of interaction with specific sugars (cellobiose, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine) under the conditions of affinity electrophoresis. The lectin is non-specific with human ABO blood group system, the agglutination is inhibited by partial chitin hydrolysate, hog stomach peptone and high concentration of cellobiose.", "contents": "Properties of Ulex europaeus II lectin isolated by affinity chromatography. A lectin was isolated from Ulex europaeus seeds by affinity chromatography on affinity adsorbent prepared by copolymerization of acrylamide, N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide and maleylated hog stomach peptone. The lectin is homogeneous as judged by ultracentrifugation (s20,w = 6.4 S), electrophoretic and gel chromatography criteria; it contains 4.2% neutral sugar and 1.4% glucosamine. Its molecular weight is approx. 110,000 and the molecule consists of two noncovalently linked protomers which are formed by two covalently bound basic subunits (Mr = 30,000). The preparation contains three isolectins differing in the strength of interaction with specific sugars (cellobiose, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine) under the conditions of affinity electrophoresis. The lectin is non-specific with human ABO blood group system, the agglutination is inhibited by partial chitin hydrolysate, hog stomach peptone and high concentration of cellobiose.", "PMID": 454654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11285", "title": "Extensive carboxypeptidase digestion of clam alpha-paramyosin. The effect on the size and solubility of the residual protein.", "content": "The purpose of this paper is to provide further evidence that the C-terminal 1/3 of the alpha-paramyosin molecule is the portion responsible for the low solubility of alpha-paramyosin at neutral pH and low ionic strength. This was accomplished by digesting from the C-terminal end with carboxypeptidases A and B in 2 M urea at pH 8.5. The solubility increased as the molecular weight decreased until a stable segment 2/3 of the size of the molecule remained.", "contents": "Extensive carboxypeptidase digestion of clam alpha-paramyosin. The effect on the size and solubility of the residual protein. The purpose of this paper is to provide further evidence that the C-terminal 1/3 of the alpha-paramyosin molecule is the portion responsible for the low solubility of alpha-paramyosin at neutral pH and low ionic strength. This was accomplished by digesting from the C-terminal end with carboxypeptidases A and B in 2 M urea at pH 8.5. The solubility increased as the molecular weight decreased until a stable segment 2/3 of the size of the molecule remained.", "PMID": 454655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11286", "title": "Isolation and characterization of glycoproteins from canine tracheal pouch secretions.", "content": "Canine tracheal pouch secretions were solubilized with 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate and visualized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose-acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Intact mucus, and water-soluble and insoluble fractions of mucus were shown to be composed of high molecular weight glycoproteins (Mr greater than or equal to 3 . 10(6)) and three major classes of proteins of lower molecular weight (Mr approximately 4 . 10(5), 2 . 10(5), and 6 . 10(4)). When the mucus secretions were further treated with a reducing agent, the glycoproteins were dissociated into subunits which appeared on the gel as three discrete bands. Separation of the high molecular weight glycoproteins from the other proteins was achieved by gel filtration on Biogel A-15m in the presence of 1% dodecyl sulfate following reduction and alkylation of mucus. These glycoproteins were further resolved, using DEAE cellulose chromatography in the presence of 6 M urea, into two protein fractions. Both fractions contained approximately 87% carbohydrate, high amounts of serine and threonine but differed significantly in contents of N-acetyl glucosamine and sialic acid; their mobility on gel electrophoresis was also different. Significant contents of cysteine were noted in both fractions. Results of this study indicate that the canine tracheal pouch preparations provide normal tracheal secretions which bear similarity in structure to the tracheobronchial secretions obtained from human patients.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of glycoproteins from canine tracheal pouch secretions. Canine tracheal pouch secretions were solubilized with 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate and visualized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose-acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Intact mucus, and water-soluble and insoluble fractions of mucus were shown to be composed of high molecular weight glycoproteins (Mr greater than or equal to 3 . 10(6)) and three major classes of proteins of lower molecular weight (Mr approximately 4 . 10(5), 2 . 10(5), and 6 . 10(4)). When the mucus secretions were further treated with a reducing agent, the glycoproteins were dissociated into subunits which appeared on the gel as three discrete bands. Separation of the high molecular weight glycoproteins from the other proteins was achieved by gel filtration on Biogel A-15m in the presence of 1% dodecyl sulfate following reduction and alkylation of mucus. These glycoproteins were further resolved, using DEAE cellulose chromatography in the presence of 6 M urea, into two protein fractions. Both fractions contained approximately 87% carbohydrate, high amounts of serine and threonine but differed significantly in contents of N-acetyl glucosamine and sialic acid; their mobility on gel electrophoresis was also different. Significant contents of cysteine were noted in both fractions. Results of this study indicate that the canine tracheal pouch preparations provide normal tracheal secretions which bear similarity in structure to the tracheobronchial secretions obtained from human patients.", "PMID": 454656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11287", "title": "Complete amino acid sequence of the myoglobin from the Pacific spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata graffmani.", "content": "The complete amino acid sequence of the major component myoglobin from the Pacific spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata graffmani, was determined by the automated Edman degradation of several large peptides obtained by specific cleavage of the protein. The acetimidated apomyoglobin was selectively cleaved at its two methionyl residues with cyanogen bromide and at its three arginyl residues by trypsin. By subjecting four of these peptides and the apomyoglobin to automated Edman degradation, over 80% of the primary structure of the protein was obtained. The remainder of the covalent structure was determined by the sequence analysis of peptides that resulted from further digestion of the central cyanogen bromide fragment. This fragment was cleaved at its glutamyl residues with staphylococcal protease and its lysyl residues with trypsin. The action of trypsin was restricted to the lysyl residues by chemical modification of the single arginyl residue of the fragment with 1,2-cyclohexanedione. The primary structure of this myoglobin proved to be identical with that from the Atlantic bottlenosed dolphin and Pacific common dolphin but differs from the myoglobins of the killer whale and pilot whale at two positions. The above sequence identities and differences reflect the close taxonomic relationship of these five species of Cetacea.", "contents": "Complete amino acid sequence of the myoglobin from the Pacific spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata graffmani. The complete amino acid sequence of the major component myoglobin from the Pacific spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata graffmani, was determined by the automated Edman degradation of several large peptides obtained by specific cleavage of the protein. The acetimidated apomyoglobin was selectively cleaved at its two methionyl residues with cyanogen bromide and at its three arginyl residues by trypsin. By subjecting four of these peptides and the apomyoglobin to automated Edman degradation, over 80% of the primary structure of the protein was obtained. The remainder of the covalent structure was determined by the sequence analysis of peptides that resulted from further digestion of the central cyanogen bromide fragment. This fragment was cleaved at its glutamyl residues with staphylococcal protease and its lysyl residues with trypsin. The action of trypsin was restricted to the lysyl residues by chemical modification of the single arginyl residue of the fragment with 1,2-cyclohexanedione. The primary structure of this myoglobin proved to be identical with that from the Atlantic bottlenosed dolphin and Pacific common dolphin but differs from the myoglobins of the killer whale and pilot whale at two positions. The above sequence identities and differences reflect the close taxonomic relationship of these five species of Cetacea.", "PMID": 454657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11288", "title": "Complete amino acid sequence of the myoglobin from the Pacific sei whale, Balaenoptera borealis.", "content": "The complete amino acid sequence of the major component myoglobin from Pacific sei whale, Balaenoptera borealis, was determined by specific cleavage of the protein to obtain large peptides which are readily degraded by the automatic sequencer. The acetimidated apomyoglobin was selectively cleaved at its two methionyl residues with cyanogen bromide and at its three arginyl residues by trypsin. From the sequence analysis of four of these peptides and the apomyoglobin, over 75% of the covalent structure of the protein was obtained. The remainder of the primary structure was determined by the sequence analysis of peptides that resulted from further digestion of the amino-terminal and central cyanogen bromide fragments. The amino-terminal fragment was specifically cleaved at its two tryptophanyl residues with N-chlorosuccinimide and the central cyanogen bromide fragment was cleaved at its glutamyl residues with staphylococcal protease and at its single tyrosyl residue with N-bromosuccinimide. The primary structure of this myoglobin proved identical with that from the gray whale but differs from that of the finback whale at four positions, from that of the minke whale at three positions and from the myoglobin of the humpback whale at one position. The above sequence identities and differences reflect the close taxonomic relationship of these five species of Cetacea.", "contents": "Complete amino acid sequence of the myoglobin from the Pacific sei whale, Balaenoptera borealis. The complete amino acid sequence of the major component myoglobin from Pacific sei whale, Balaenoptera borealis, was determined by specific cleavage of the protein to obtain large peptides which are readily degraded by the automatic sequencer. The acetimidated apomyoglobin was selectively cleaved at its two methionyl residues with cyanogen bromide and at its three arginyl residues by trypsin. From the sequence analysis of four of these peptides and the apomyoglobin, over 75% of the covalent structure of the protein was obtained. The remainder of the primary structure was determined by the sequence analysis of peptides that resulted from further digestion of the amino-terminal and central cyanogen bromide fragments. The amino-terminal fragment was specifically cleaved at its two tryptophanyl residues with N-chlorosuccinimide and the central cyanogen bromide fragment was cleaved at its glutamyl residues with staphylococcal protease and at its single tyrosyl residue with N-bromosuccinimide. The primary structure of this myoglobin proved identical with that from the gray whale but differs from that of the finback whale at four positions, from that of the minke whale at three positions and from the myoglobin of the humpback whale at one position. The above sequence identities and differences reflect the close taxonomic relationship of these five species of Cetacea.", "PMID": 454658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11289", "title": "Purification and characterization of a major component from the cytoplasmic matrix of cultured murine L cells.", "content": "This study describes the purification and preliminary characterization of a 94 000 molecular weight protein (S-94) previously known only as a major band in SDS-polyacrylamide gels of total proteins from cultured murine cells. Native S-94 is a soluble constituent of the cytoplasm and sediments at 5.0 S in sucrose gradients, behavior compatible with that of a 94 000 molecular weight monomer. S-94 is purified more than 20-fold from the 100 000 X g supernatant of murine L or L1210 lymphoma cells by DEAE-Sephadex (A-50) chromatography in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol followed by Sephadex G-200 chromatography in 8 M urea. The protein prepared by this procedure is extensively aggregated, but is essentially homogeneous by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. S-94 preparations from the two types of murine cells behave identically during the purification procedure and are presumed to be the same protein. It appears that these cells contain only one major protein of 94 000 molecular weight. Purified S-94 yields a distinctive pattern of fragments following CNBr degradation, including one peptide of 36 100 molecular weight. The amino acid composition is distinguished by being relatively rich in threonine, glycine and lysine, but poor in valine, leucine and tyrosine.", "contents": "Purification and characterization of a major component from the cytoplasmic matrix of cultured murine L cells. This study describes the purification and preliminary characterization of a 94 000 molecular weight protein (S-94) previously known only as a major band in SDS-polyacrylamide gels of total proteins from cultured murine cells. Native S-94 is a soluble constituent of the cytoplasm and sediments at 5.0 S in sucrose gradients, behavior compatible with that of a 94 000 molecular weight monomer. S-94 is purified more than 20-fold from the 100 000 X g supernatant of murine L or L1210 lymphoma cells by DEAE-Sephadex (A-50) chromatography in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol followed by Sephadex G-200 chromatography in 8 M urea. The protein prepared by this procedure is extensively aggregated, but is essentially homogeneous by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. S-94 preparations from the two types of murine cells behave identically during the purification procedure and are presumed to be the same protein. It appears that these cells contain only one major protein of 94 000 molecular weight. Purified S-94 yields a distinctive pattern of fragments following CNBr degradation, including one peptide of 36 100 molecular weight. The amino acid composition is distinguished by being relatively rich in threonine, glycine and lysine, but poor in valine, leucine and tyrosine.", "PMID": 454659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11290", "title": "Laser Raman spectroscopy of acid phosphatase from rat liver after neuraminidase treatment.", "content": "The conventional Raman technique was used to obtain spectra of acid phosphatase isoenzymes I and II from rat liver after neuraminidase enzyme treatment for 24 h. The low frequency bands below 300 cm-1 which were observed in native lyophilized isoenzymes are obtained from the sialic acid groups of these glycoproteins. These bands disappeared after neuraminidase treatment and the broad bands at 310, 260, 200 and 80 cm-1 are obtained from protein modes. The small differences between the Raman spectra of these isoenzymes disappeared after the neuraminidase treatment.", "contents": "Laser Raman spectroscopy of acid phosphatase from rat liver after neuraminidase treatment. The conventional Raman technique was used to obtain spectra of acid phosphatase isoenzymes I and II from rat liver after neuraminidase enzyme treatment for 24 h. The low frequency bands below 300 cm-1 which were observed in native lyophilized isoenzymes are obtained from the sialic acid groups of these glycoproteins. These bands disappeared after neuraminidase treatment and the broad bands at 310, 260, 200 and 80 cm-1 are obtained from protein modes. The small differences between the Raman spectra of these isoenzymes disappeared after the neuraminidase treatment.", "PMID": 454661} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11291", "title": "Lanthanide ion probes of structure in biology. Environmentally sensitive fine structure in laser-induced terbium(III) luminescence.", "content": "The 488 nm line of the CW argon ion laser provides a convenient visible source for the direct excitation of the emissive 5D4 state of the Tb(III) ion. Room temperature emission spectra of Tb(III) in a variety of environments have been examined under relatively high resolution. The samples studied include structurally well-characterized crystalline solids, model chelate complexes in solution and Tb(III) bound to the enzyme thermolysin and the protein parvalbumin. The fine structure in the emissions is caused by ligand field splittings of both ground and excited state J manifolds. These spectra provide signatures sensitive to the immediate coordination environment of the Tb(III) ion. Solid state/solution state structural comparisons are made. The emission fine structure reveal differences between the EF side calcium-binding sites of parvalbumin and the calcium site 1 of thermolysin.", "contents": "Lanthanide ion probes of structure in biology. Environmentally sensitive fine structure in laser-induced terbium(III) luminescence. The 488 nm line of the CW argon ion laser provides a convenient visible source for the direct excitation of the emissive 5D4 state of the Tb(III) ion. Room temperature emission spectra of Tb(III) in a variety of environments have been examined under relatively high resolution. The samples studied include structurally well-characterized crystalline solids, model chelate complexes in solution and Tb(III) bound to the enzyme thermolysin and the protein parvalbumin. The fine structure in the emissions is caused by ligand field splittings of both ground and excited state J manifolds. These spectra provide signatures sensitive to the immediate coordination environment of the Tb(III) ion. Solid state/solution state structural comparisons are made. The emission fine structure reveal differences between the EF side calcium-binding sites of parvalbumin and the calcium site 1 of thermolysin.", "PMID": 454662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11292", "title": "Studies on factor VIII-related protein. II. Estimation of molecular size differences between factor VIII oligomers.", "content": "Human factor VIII-related protein was isolated from cryoprecipitate by agarose (Sepharose CL-2B) gel filtration. Electrophoresis on SDS-2% polyacrylamide-0.5% agarose gels revealed size heterogeneity of factor VIII-related protein which was similar to that shown by SDS-1% agarose gel electrophoresis and electron microscopy. The apparent molecular weights were compared with those of crosslinked IgM oligomers and corresponded to values of up to 20 . 10(6) for factor VIII eluting close to the void volume of our gel filtration column. Measurement of mobility intervals on electrophoretic gels suggested a constant size difference between adjacent bands. Smaller aggregates were found in later eluates from Sepharose columns as well as following partial reduction of factor VIII with cysteine. In order to compare the size difference between small and large aggregates of factor VIII-related protein we calibrated the SDS-2% polyacrylamide-0.5% agarose gels with factor VIII which had been crosslinked with dimethyl suberimidate and subsequently disulfied-reduced with 2-metcaptoethanol. By combination of calibration ranges, constant intervals were measured for large and smaller factor VIII aggregates. The interval between any neighboring protein bands, which were immunologically identified as factor VIII-related protein, was equal to the dimer of the basic factor VIII subunit chain. We conclude that factor VIII aggregates correspond to multimers of a dimeric molecule, i.e. pairs of the basic subunit chain.", "contents": "Studies on factor VIII-related protein. II. Estimation of molecular size differences between factor VIII oligomers. Human factor VIII-related protein was isolated from cryoprecipitate by agarose (Sepharose CL-2B) gel filtration. Electrophoresis on SDS-2% polyacrylamide-0.5% agarose gels revealed size heterogeneity of factor VIII-related protein which was similar to that shown by SDS-1% agarose gel electrophoresis and electron microscopy. The apparent molecular weights were compared with those of crosslinked IgM oligomers and corresponded to values of up to 20 . 10(6) for factor VIII eluting close to the void volume of our gel filtration column. Measurement of mobility intervals on electrophoretic gels suggested a constant size difference between adjacent bands. Smaller aggregates were found in later eluates from Sepharose columns as well as following partial reduction of factor VIII with cysteine. In order to compare the size difference between small and large aggregates of factor VIII-related protein we calibrated the SDS-2% polyacrylamide-0.5% agarose gels with factor VIII which had been crosslinked with dimethyl suberimidate and subsequently disulfied-reduced with 2-metcaptoethanol. By combination of calibration ranges, constant intervals were measured for large and smaller factor VIII aggregates. The interval between any neighboring protein bands, which were immunologically identified as factor VIII-related protein, was equal to the dimer of the basic factor VIII subunit chain. We conclude that factor VIII aggregates correspond to multimers of a dimeric molecule, i.e. pairs of the basic subunit chain.", "PMID": 454664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11293", "title": "Plant histone 2 from wheat germ, a family of histone H2a variants. Partial amino acid sequences.", "content": "1. The 0.5 M perchloric acid extract prepared from chromatin of wheat germ, Triticum aestivum, contains a group of histones formerly called plant histones. These can be resolved by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-60 with subsequent CM-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography into five histone fractions containing families of histones H2A and H2B. 2. The partial amino acid sequences of histone H2A variants H2A(1)Triticum, H2A(2)Triticum and H2A(3)Triticum are presented. Extensive sequence homology exists between calf thymus histone H2A and wheat embryo H2A histones. Differences are largely due to conservative amino acid substitutions and in two of the variants, viz. H2A(2) and H2A(3) to N-terminal extensions of the polypeptide chains.", "contents": "Plant histone 2 from wheat germ, a family of histone H2a variants. Partial amino acid sequences. 1. The 0.5 M perchloric acid extract prepared from chromatin of wheat germ, Triticum aestivum, contains a group of histones formerly called plant histones. These can be resolved by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-60 with subsequent CM-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography into five histone fractions containing families of histones H2A and H2B. 2. The partial amino acid sequences of histone H2A variants H2A(1)Triticum, H2A(2)Triticum and H2A(3)Triticum are presented. Extensive sequence homology exists between calf thymus histone H2A and wheat embryo H2A histones. Differences are largely due to conservative amino acid substitutions and in two of the variants, viz. H2A(2) and H2A(3) to N-terminal extensions of the polypeptide chains.", "PMID": 454665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11294", "title": "The N-terminal sequence of the ribosomal 'A' protein from two moderate halophiles, Vibrio costicola and an unidentified moderate (NRCC 11227).", "content": "The 'A' protein, equivalent to ribosomal protein EL7/L12 from Escherichia coli, has been isolated and purified from two moderate halophiles Vibrio costicola and NRCC 11227. The 'A' protein from V. costicola contained an N-terminal serine and separated into two forms on DEAE-cellulose and two-dimensional electrophoresis while the equivalent protein in NRCC 11227 contained an N-terminal alanine residue and was present in only one form. The amino acid composition and mobility on two-dimensional gels indicated these proteins were very similar to EL7/L12. The first 38 residues of the 'A' proteins were sequenced and compared to the equivalent protein from E. coli and the extreme halophile Halobacterium cutirubrum. The N-terminal region of the 'A' protein from both moderate halophiles showed substantial homology to EL 12 (75--80%) but no evidence of any homology to the equivalent protein from the extreme halophile. The ribosomal proteins equivalent to ES1A in E. coli were also isolated and their amino acid compositions determined.", "contents": "The N-terminal sequence of the ribosomal 'A' protein from two moderate halophiles, Vibrio costicola and an unidentified moderate (NRCC 11227). The 'A' protein, equivalent to ribosomal protein EL7/L12 from Escherichia coli, has been isolated and purified from two moderate halophiles Vibrio costicola and NRCC 11227. The 'A' protein from V. costicola contained an N-terminal serine and separated into two forms on DEAE-cellulose and two-dimensional electrophoresis while the equivalent protein in NRCC 11227 contained an N-terminal alanine residue and was present in only one form. The amino acid composition and mobility on two-dimensional gels indicated these proteins were very similar to EL7/L12. The first 38 residues of the 'A' proteins were sequenced and compared to the equivalent protein from E. coli and the extreme halophile Halobacterium cutirubrum. The N-terminal region of the 'A' protein from both moderate halophiles showed substantial homology to EL 12 (75--80%) but no evidence of any homology to the equivalent protein from the extreme halophile. The ribosomal proteins equivalent to ES1A in E. coli were also isolated and their amino acid compositions determined.", "PMID": 454666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11295", "title": "Subunits of the extracellular hemoglobin of Tubifex tubifex.", "content": "The molecular weight of the extracellular hemoglobin of Tubifex tubifex determined by equilibrium sedimentation is 3.0 +/- 0.2 . 10(6). Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate showed that the hemoglobin dissociated into four subunits: 13 000 (subunit 1), 21 000 (subunit 2), 23 000 (subunit 3) and 47 000 (subunit 4); in the presence of mercaptoethanol two subunits were observed, 13 000 +/- 1000 (subunit I) accounting for 70--80% of the whole molecule, and 26 000 (subunit II). Electrophoresis of the subunits obtained in the absence of mercaptoethanol showed that subunit I originated from subunits 1 and 4, while subunit II originated from subunits 2 and 3. These relationships were supported by N-terminal group determinations. Gel filtration in 6 M guanidine hydrochloride showed that the molecular weight of subunit I is 17 500 and that of subunit II, 36 000. Tubifex hemoglobin appears to consist of at least seven polypeptide chains.", "contents": "Subunits of the extracellular hemoglobin of Tubifex tubifex. The molecular weight of the extracellular hemoglobin of Tubifex tubifex determined by equilibrium sedimentation is 3.0 +/- 0.2 . 10(6). Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate showed that the hemoglobin dissociated into four subunits: 13 000 (subunit 1), 21 000 (subunit 2), 23 000 (subunit 3) and 47 000 (subunit 4); in the presence of mercaptoethanol two subunits were observed, 13 000 +/- 1000 (subunit I) accounting for 70--80% of the whole molecule, and 26 000 (subunit II). Electrophoresis of the subunits obtained in the absence of mercaptoethanol showed that subunit I originated from subunits 1 and 4, while subunit II originated from subunits 2 and 3. These relationships were supported by N-terminal group determinations. Gel filtration in 6 M guanidine hydrochloride showed that the molecular weight of subunit I is 17 500 and that of subunit II, 36 000. Tubifex hemoglobin appears to consist of at least seven polypeptide chains.", "PMID": 454667} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11296", "title": "Isolation and partial characterization of human factor V.", "content": "Factor V was isolated from human citrate plasma by very mild purification steps. Cryoprecipitation, fractionation with polyethylene glycol 6000, gel filtration of AcA 44 and adsorption of haptoglobin to immobilized hemoglobin were applied successively, resulting in factor V preparations with a specific activity of 14.5 unit/mg. The yield was 28 percent. A molecular weight of 296 000 was determined by gel filtration and the apparent sedimentation constant found by ultracentrifugation in a sucrose gradient was 7.8 S. Parallel experiments with citrate plasma resulted in the same molecular weight and sedimentation constant. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of factor V in the presence or absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate showed a single protein band. Incubation with human thrombin resulted in an 8-fold activation of the purified factor V.", "contents": "Isolation and partial characterization of human factor V. Factor V was isolated from human citrate plasma by very mild purification steps. Cryoprecipitation, fractionation with polyethylene glycol 6000, gel filtration of AcA 44 and adsorption of haptoglobin to immobilized hemoglobin were applied successively, resulting in factor V preparations with a specific activity of 14.5 unit/mg. The yield was 28 percent. A molecular weight of 296 000 was determined by gel filtration and the apparent sedimentation constant found by ultracentrifugation in a sucrose gradient was 7.8 S. Parallel experiments with citrate plasma resulted in the same molecular weight and sedimentation constant. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of factor V in the presence or absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate showed a single protein band. Incubation with human thrombin resulted in an 8-fold activation of the purified factor V.", "PMID": 454668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11297", "title": "The role of crotoxin subunits in tropical rattlesnake neurotoxic action.", "content": "The major toxin (crotoxin) of Crotalus durissus terrificus (neotropical rattlesnake) is known to be a reversible non-covalently associated complex consisting of an acidic and basic subunit. On separation biological activity is found only with the basic subunit, yet, although void of detectable biological activity, the acidic subunit is essential for the full neurotoxic activity of the complex. Recent evidence suggests that crotoxin A serves as a 'chaperone' to enhance the specificity of crotoxin B and, upon binding, crotoxin A is released to the medium. This study was designed to test this hypothesis. Dimethyl suberimidate, a bifunctional cross-linking agent, was used to irreversibly bind the two subunits. Disc electrophoresis, ion-exchange chromatography, molecular sieve chromatography, capillary isotachophoresis and isoelectric precipitation confirm the existence of an inter-subunit covalently cross-linked complex. The conversion of a dissociable complex to a non-dissociable complex abolished neurotoxicity. Although neurotoxicity was lost, phospholipase A2 (phosphatide 2-acyl-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.4), which is found associated with many presynaptic neurotoxins, was unaffected. The data in this paper add credence to the 'chaperone' concept of crotoxin A and the importance of the reversible nature of the complex for full expression of neurotoxicity.", "contents": "The role of crotoxin subunits in tropical rattlesnake neurotoxic action. The major toxin (crotoxin) of Crotalus durissus terrificus (neotropical rattlesnake) is known to be a reversible non-covalently associated complex consisting of an acidic and basic subunit. On separation biological activity is found only with the basic subunit, yet, although void of detectable biological activity, the acidic subunit is essential for the full neurotoxic activity of the complex. Recent evidence suggests that crotoxin A serves as a 'chaperone' to enhance the specificity of crotoxin B and, upon binding, crotoxin A is released to the medium. This study was designed to test this hypothesis. Dimethyl suberimidate, a bifunctional cross-linking agent, was used to irreversibly bind the two subunits. Disc electrophoresis, ion-exchange chromatography, molecular sieve chromatography, capillary isotachophoresis and isoelectric precipitation confirm the existence of an inter-subunit covalently cross-linked complex. The conversion of a dissociable complex to a non-dissociable complex abolished neurotoxicity. Although neurotoxicity was lost, phospholipase A2 (phosphatide 2-acyl-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.4), which is found associated with many presynaptic neurotoxins, was unaffected. The data in this paper add credence to the 'chaperone' concept of crotoxin A and the importance of the reversible nature of the complex for full expression of neurotoxicity.", "PMID": 454669} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11298", "title": "Preparation and properties of polyethylene glycol-trypsin adducts.", "content": "The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol of 5000 daltons to non-essential groups on trypsin produces an adduct that no longer precipitates with anti-trypsin antibody. In comparison with trypsin, polyethylene glycol-trypsin preparations show equal or greater activity against N-alpha-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester, about one-fourth activity against angiotensin II, and little activity against bovine liver catalase. The polyethylene glycol-trypsin adduct dissolves soft blood clots at one-fourth the rate of trypsin. Soybean trypsin inhibitor produces two-thirds inhibition of the adduct under conditions that cause complete inhibition of trypsin.", "contents": "Preparation and properties of polyethylene glycol-trypsin adducts. The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol of 5000 daltons to non-essential groups on trypsin produces an adduct that no longer precipitates with anti-trypsin antibody. In comparison with trypsin, polyethylene glycol-trypsin preparations show equal or greater activity against N-alpha-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester, about one-fourth activity against angiotensin II, and little activity against bovine liver catalase. The polyethylene glycol-trypsin adduct dissolves soft blood clots at one-fourth the rate of trypsin. Soybean trypsin inhibitor produces two-thirds inhibition of the adduct under conditions that cause complete inhibition of trypsin.", "PMID": 454670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11299", "title": "Preparation of a non-immunogenic arginase by the covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol.", "content": "Methoxypolyethylene glycol of 5000 daltons (PEG) was attached covalently to bovine liver arginase using 2,4,6-trichloro-s-triazine as the coupling agent. The conjugate (PEG-arginase), with PEG attached to 53% of the amino groups, retained 65% of its original enzymatic activity. Mice were injected intravenously with arginase or PEG-arginase for periods of one to three months. The blood-circulating life of PEG-arginase was greatly extended over that of arginase. The half-life of injected arginase at day 30 was less than 1 h, whereas that of the PEG-enzyme was 12 h. Antisera from mice injected with native arginase reacted against arginase but not against PEG-arginase when tested by immunodiffusion. Antisera from animals injected with PEG-arginase reacted neither with native arginase nor PEG-arginase. The data indicate that arginase modified by PEG has been rendered both non-immunogenic and non-antigenic when tested in mice. The injection of PEG-arginase into mice did not induce tolerance toward the native enzyme. Injected PEG-arginase, in the presence of precipitating antibody directed against native arginase, circulated at the same level as in virgin animals. The attachment of PEG to arginase altered its kinetic properties.", "contents": "Preparation of a non-immunogenic arginase by the covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol. Methoxypolyethylene glycol of 5000 daltons (PEG) was attached covalently to bovine liver arginase using 2,4,6-trichloro-s-triazine as the coupling agent. The conjugate (PEG-arginase), with PEG attached to 53% of the amino groups, retained 65% of its original enzymatic activity. Mice were injected intravenously with arginase or PEG-arginase for periods of one to three months. The blood-circulating life of PEG-arginase was greatly extended over that of arginase. The half-life of injected arginase at day 30 was less than 1 h, whereas that of the PEG-enzyme was 12 h. Antisera from mice injected with native arginase reacted against arginase but not against PEG-arginase when tested by immunodiffusion. Antisera from animals injected with PEG-arginase reacted neither with native arginase nor PEG-arginase. The data indicate that arginase modified by PEG has been rendered both non-immunogenic and non-antigenic when tested in mice. The injection of PEG-arginase into mice did not induce tolerance toward the native enzyme. Injected PEG-arginase, in the presence of precipitating antibody directed against native arginase, circulated at the same level as in virgin animals. The attachment of PEG to arginase altered its kinetic properties.", "PMID": 454671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11300", "title": "Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of 125I-labeled surface proteins of human fibroblasts.", "content": "Human fibroblasts were labeled by the 125I-lactoperoxidase technique and the sodium dodecyl sulfate soluble proteins examined by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to determine the charge heterogeneity of the surface proteins and test for differences in surface proteins in several hereditary disorders. Approximately 80 polypeptides were observed. Those below 65 000 daltons tended to occur as single spots, while those of higher molecular weight were often present as a series of polypeptides of similar molecular weight (charge isomers). The possible role of these proteins in cell-cell recognition is discussed.", "contents": "Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of 125I-labeled surface proteins of human fibroblasts. Human fibroblasts were labeled by the 125I-lactoperoxidase technique and the sodium dodecyl sulfate soluble proteins examined by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to determine the charge heterogeneity of the surface proteins and test for differences in surface proteins in several hereditary disorders. Approximately 80 polypeptides were observed. Those below 65 000 daltons tended to occur as single spots, while those of higher molecular weight were often present as a series of polypeptides of similar molecular weight (charge isomers). The possible role of these proteins in cell-cell recognition is discussed.", "PMID": 454672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11301", "title": "Sodium dodecyl sulfate-protein polypeptide complexes in 8 M urea with special reference to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.", "content": "The effects of 8 M urea on the complexes formed between sodium dodecyl sulfate and protein polypeptide were found to be as follows: (1) The maximum amount of SDS bound is reduced by almost half, and the minimum equilibrium concentration of SDS necessary to reach saturation was nearly doubled; (2) The apparent content of alpha-helical structure deduced from CD measurement is reduced to only 50--70% of that in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate alone; (3) The effective size of the sodium dodecyl sulfate-protein polypeptide complex deduced from viscosity measurements is increased, but is still smaller than the effective size of the protein in 8 M urea alone.", "contents": "Sodium dodecyl sulfate-protein polypeptide complexes in 8 M urea with special reference to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The effects of 8 M urea on the complexes formed between sodium dodecyl sulfate and protein polypeptide were found to be as follows: (1) The maximum amount of SDS bound is reduced by almost half, and the minimum equilibrium concentration of SDS necessary to reach saturation was nearly doubled; (2) The apparent content of alpha-helical structure deduced from CD measurement is reduced to only 50--70% of that in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate alone; (3) The effective size of the sodium dodecyl sulfate-protein polypeptide complex deduced from viscosity measurements is increased, but is still smaller than the effective size of the protein in 8 M urea alone.", "PMID": 454673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11302", "title": "Conformation change in reconstituted thin filament studied with fluorescence energy transfer between epsilon-ADP bound to F-actin and NBD-Cl bound to troponin-C.", "content": "The interaction of troponin and F-actin was studied by the methods of fluorescence energy transfer. We used epsilon-ADP bound to F-actin as a fluorescence donor and 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole bound to troponin-C in troponin as a fluorescence acceptor. The efficiency of the fluorescence energy transfer of this system was larger in the absence of calcium ion than in the presence of calcium ion. This shows that the interaction of troponin with F-actin changes in response to the concentration of calcium ion.", "contents": "Conformation change in reconstituted thin filament studied with fluorescence energy transfer between epsilon-ADP bound to F-actin and NBD-Cl bound to troponin-C. The interaction of troponin and F-actin was studied by the methods of fluorescence energy transfer. We used epsilon-ADP bound to F-actin as a fluorescence donor and 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole bound to troponin-C in troponin as a fluorescence acceptor. The efficiency of the fluorescence energy transfer of this system was larger in the absence of calcium ion than in the presence of calcium ion. This shows that the interaction of troponin with F-actin changes in response to the concentration of calcium ion.", "PMID": 454674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11303", "title": "Effect of hormonal and neuronal agents on adenylate cyclase from smooth muscle of the gastric antrum.", "content": "Smooth muscle adenylate cyclase of a membrane preparation of canine gastric antrum has been characterized, and the effect of hormonal and neuronal agents examined. The enzyme is active in the presence of Mg2+ or Mn2+, but is inhibited by Ca2+. The Km is 0.5 mM ATP, similar to the Km of skeletal muscle adenylate cyclase. The enzyme is activated by isoproterenol but not norepinephrine, consistent with a beta 2-catecholamine receptor-adenylate cyclase interaction. Secretin activates the enzyme in concentrations as low as 1 . 10(-11) M, while glucagon was effective only at 1 . 10(-6) M. Prostaglandin E1 and E2 have a biphasic effect with activation of adenylate cyclase at 1 . 10(-5) M and a small but significant inhibition of enzyme activity at 1 . 10(-11) M.", "contents": "Effect of hormonal and neuronal agents on adenylate cyclase from smooth muscle of the gastric antrum. Smooth muscle adenylate cyclase of a membrane preparation of canine gastric antrum has been characterized, and the effect of hormonal and neuronal agents examined. The enzyme is active in the presence of Mg2+ or Mn2+, but is inhibited by Ca2+. The Km is 0.5 mM ATP, similar to the Km of skeletal muscle adenylate cyclase. The enzyme is activated by isoproterenol but not norepinephrine, consistent with a beta 2-catecholamine receptor-adenylate cyclase interaction. Secretin activates the enzyme in concentrations as low as 1 . 10(-11) M, while glucagon was effective only at 1 . 10(-6) M. Prostaglandin E1 and E2 have a biphasic effect with activation of adenylate cyclase at 1 . 10(-5) M and a small but significant inhibition of enzyme activity at 1 . 10(-11) M.", "PMID": 454675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11304", "title": "Distribution of non-electrolytes in Halobacterium cells. I. Halobacterium marismortui.", "content": "Halobacterium marismortui is an obligatorily halophilic species isolated from the Dead Sea. When inulin, fructose or glycerol are added to suspensions of bacteria, the amounts of these substances recovered from centrifuges pellets are more than could have been present in the extracellular space. Thus a certain amount becomes associated with the bacteria, though not enough to equilibrate with all the cell water. The inulin or fructose concentration found after uptake of these substances was correlated with the cell sodium concentration. It is argued that inulin, fructose or glycerol is unlikely to be adsorbed on the outside of the bacteria and more probably crosses the plasma membrane. A possible scheme for explaining the data is presented.", "contents": "Distribution of non-electrolytes in Halobacterium cells. I. Halobacterium marismortui. Halobacterium marismortui is an obligatorily halophilic species isolated from the Dead Sea. When inulin, fructose or glycerol are added to suspensions of bacteria, the amounts of these substances recovered from centrifuges pellets are more than could have been present in the extracellular space. Thus a certain amount becomes associated with the bacteria, though not enough to equilibrate with all the cell water. The inulin or fructose concentration found after uptake of these substances was correlated with the cell sodium concentration. It is argued that inulin, fructose or glycerol is unlikely to be adsorbed on the outside of the bacteria and more probably crosses the plasma membrane. A possible scheme for explaining the data is presented.", "PMID": 454676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11305", "title": "Synthesis of protein, nucleosides and other organic compounds from cyanamide and potassium nitrite under possible primitive earth conditions.", "content": "The mixing of cyanamide and KNO2 produced changes from white solids to yellow liquid and then to orange solid. The gases cyanogen and ammonia were formed. No external energy was used. The reactions were carried out with a small amount of O2. The presence of proteins in the reaction product formed 13 months after the mixing was indicated by the positive reactions of the cyanamide-KNO2 reaction product with ninhydrin, microbiuret, and Folin reagent; the ultraviolet absorption at about 280 nm; the yield of 24% of 15 amino acids; and molecular weight measurements of more than 160,000. The presence of nucleosides, nucleic acid bases, hydrocarbons, and organic esters in the reaction product formed 2 months after the mixing was indicated by ultraviolet absorption at about 260 nm, and the results of ligand-exchange chromatography, paper chromatography, infrared analysis, mass spectral analysis, and NMR spectroscopy. Possible cyanamide-mediated dehydration reactions and mechanisms are discussed.", "contents": "Synthesis of protein, nucleosides and other organic compounds from cyanamide and potassium nitrite under possible primitive earth conditions. The mixing of cyanamide and KNO2 produced changes from white solids to yellow liquid and then to orange solid. The gases cyanogen and ammonia were formed. No external energy was used. The reactions were carried out with a small amount of O2. The presence of proteins in the reaction product formed 13 months after the mixing was indicated by the positive reactions of the cyanamide-KNO2 reaction product with ninhydrin, microbiuret, and Folin reagent; the ultraviolet absorption at about 280 nm; the yield of 24% of 15 amino acids; and molecular weight measurements of more than 160,000. The presence of nucleosides, nucleic acid bases, hydrocarbons, and organic esters in the reaction product formed 2 months after the mixing was indicated by ultraviolet absorption at about 260 nm, and the results of ligand-exchange chromatography, paper chromatography, infrared analysis, mass spectral analysis, and NMR spectroscopy. Possible cyanamide-mediated dehydration reactions and mechanisms are discussed.", "PMID": 454677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11306", "title": "Stimulation of renal gluconeogenesis by angiotensin II.", "content": "Renal gluconeogenesis was studied in suspended tubule fragments isolated by collagenase treatment of rat kidney cortices. Angiotensin II increased glucose formation from pyruvate, lactate, and to a lesser extent from oxoglutarate and glutamine, but not from other substrates such as malate, succinate, dihydroxyacetone or fructose. Stimulation was significant with peptide concentration exceeding 1 . 10(-8) M and was also shown with an 8-Sar derivative. Other peptides such as 4-Ala-8-Ile-angiotensin II, hexapeptide and bradykinin had no effect. The stimulatory action of angiotensin II was additive to that of L-lysine, and 3',5'-adenosine cyclic monophosphate, suggesting a different mechanism of action. In the presence of maximally stimulatory concentrations of oleate, phenylephrine and 3',5'-guanosine cyclic monophosphate, however, the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II was absent. Cyclic GMP levels, however, did not increase in tubules after angiotensin II and phenylephrine addition, making a messenger function of this nucleotide unlikely. Omission of Ca2+ from the medium markedly reduced basal gluconeogenesis but did not result in a complete loss of angiotensin II effect. Reduction of medium potassium to 2 mM, however, increased basal gluconeogenesis and blunted the peptide effect. 1 mM ouabain was also able to inhibit the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II. Therefore changes in intracellular potassium levels are discussed as a possible mechanism of angiontensin action, whereas calcium seems not to be specifically linked to this metabolic action of angiotensin on the proximal tubule.", "contents": "Stimulation of renal gluconeogenesis by angiotensin II. Renal gluconeogenesis was studied in suspended tubule fragments isolated by collagenase treatment of rat kidney cortices. Angiotensin II increased glucose formation from pyruvate, lactate, and to a lesser extent from oxoglutarate and glutamine, but not from other substrates such as malate, succinate, dihydroxyacetone or fructose. Stimulation was significant with peptide concentration exceeding 1 . 10(-8) M and was also shown with an 8-Sar derivative. Other peptides such as 4-Ala-8-Ile-angiotensin II, hexapeptide and bradykinin had no effect. The stimulatory action of angiotensin II was additive to that of L-lysine, and 3',5'-adenosine cyclic monophosphate, suggesting a different mechanism of action. In the presence of maximally stimulatory concentrations of oleate, phenylephrine and 3',5'-guanosine cyclic monophosphate, however, the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II was absent. Cyclic GMP levels, however, did not increase in tubules after angiotensin II and phenylephrine addition, making a messenger function of this nucleotide unlikely. Omission of Ca2+ from the medium markedly reduced basal gluconeogenesis but did not result in a complete loss of angiotensin II effect. Reduction of medium potassium to 2 mM, however, increased basal gluconeogenesis and blunted the peptide effect. 1 mM ouabain was also able to inhibit the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II. Therefore changes in intracellular potassium levels are discussed as a possible mechanism of angiontensin action, whereas calcium seems not to be specifically linked to this metabolic action of angiotensin on the proximal tubule.", "PMID": 454678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11307", "title": "Kinetics of the glucocorticoid hormone-receptor interaction. False association constants determined in slowly equilibrating systems.", "content": "The usual way of in vitro determination of association constants for hormone-receptor complexes is criticized. It is shown that if incubation time is short, relative to the half-life of the hormone-receptor complex, the value of the apparent Ka is proportional to the time of incubation. No sign of lack of equilibrium is apparent from the Scatchard plots. The case of rapidly denaturing receptor molecule is also discussed, with similar conclusions. Although terminology and examples are taken from the field of the glucocorticoid receptor research, all deductions are valid for other systems with similar association (and denaturation or monomolecular transformation) mechanisms and kinetic parameters.", "contents": "Kinetics of the glucocorticoid hormone-receptor interaction. False association constants determined in slowly equilibrating systems. The usual way of in vitro determination of association constants for hormone-receptor complexes is criticized. It is shown that if incubation time is short, relative to the half-life of the hormone-receptor complex, the value of the apparent Ka is proportional to the time of incubation. No sign of lack of equilibrium is apparent from the Scatchard plots. The case of rapidly denaturing receptor molecule is also discussed, with similar conclusions. Although terminology and examples are taken from the field of the glucocorticoid receptor research, all deductions are valid for other systems with similar association (and denaturation or monomolecular transformation) mechanisms and kinetic parameters.", "PMID": 454679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11308", "title": "Microinjection of ricin entrapped in unilamellar liposomes into a ricin-resistant mutant of baby hamster kidney cells.", "content": "Fluorescein-labelled Ricin was entrapped in unilamellar liposomes; 14 microgram of protein was entrapped by 1 mg of lipids. Liposomes added to cells in culture in low serum medium can deliver entrapped Ricin to a Ricin-resistant mutant of baby hamster kidney(BHK)cells. Ricin entrapped in unilamellar liposomes inhibits protein biosynthesis at a concentration of 1.75 microgram/ml in Ricin-resistant cells. Ricin dissolved in medium at 50 microgram/ml does not affect protein synthesis in these cells.", "contents": "Microinjection of ricin entrapped in unilamellar liposomes into a ricin-resistant mutant of baby hamster kidney cells. Fluorescein-labelled Ricin was entrapped in unilamellar liposomes; 14 microgram of protein was entrapped by 1 mg of lipids. Liposomes added to cells in culture in low serum medium can deliver entrapped Ricin to a Ricin-resistant mutant of baby hamster kidney(BHK)cells. Ricin entrapped in unilamellar liposomes inhibits protein biosynthesis at a concentration of 1.75 microgram/ml in Ricin-resistant cells. Ricin dissolved in medium at 50 microgram/ml does not affect protein synthesis in these cells.", "PMID": 454680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11309", "title": "The occurrence of cystinylglycine in blood plasma.", "content": "Cystinylglycine has been identified as a minor ninhydrin-positive component of deproteinized blood plasma from human, bovine, rat and rabbit blood. The amount present in human blood plasma is approximately one-fifth of that of cystine and is not significantly correlated with age or with the cystine level.", "contents": "The occurrence of cystinylglycine in blood plasma. Cystinylglycine has been identified as a minor ninhydrin-positive component of deproteinized blood plasma from human, bovine, rat and rabbit blood. The amount present in human blood plasma is approximately one-fifth of that of cystine and is not significantly correlated with age or with the cystine level.", "PMID": 454681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11310", "title": "Degradation of peroxisomal catalase and urate oxidase of rat liver.", "content": "Urate oxidase and catalase were purified from rat liver peroxisomes, and respective antibodies were prepared from rabbits by the administration of these enzymes. Although urate oxidase generally precipitates in immunoprecipitation-possible pH ranges (pH 4.5--9.5), the enzyme remained soluble in 50 mM glycine buffer (pH 9.5) containing 50% glycerol up to concentration of 0.3 mg/ml. Anti-urate oxidase reacted with purified urate oxidase as well as with the crude preparation. After [3H]leucine was injected to rats, urate oxidase and catalase were purified from rat liver at certain intervals, and further precipitated by respective antibodies. The half-life of the catalase was 39 h and that of urate oxidase, 20 h. When the sonicated light mitochondrial fraction was incubated at 37 degrees C and at pH 7.0 or 5.6, inactivation of catalase did not seem to differ between these pH values, and approximately 80% of the catalase activity remained even after 8 h. Urate oxidase was inactivated very rapidly at pH 5.6; only 30% of its activity survived incubation for 6 h. This inactivation was found to occur by some proteolytic process. From these findings, the turnover rate of urate oxidase was found to be different from that of catalase, and this distinction seemed to be due to different sensitivity to some degradative enzymes.", "contents": "Degradation of peroxisomal catalase and urate oxidase of rat liver. Urate oxidase and catalase were purified from rat liver peroxisomes, and respective antibodies were prepared from rabbits by the administration of these enzymes. Although urate oxidase generally precipitates in immunoprecipitation-possible pH ranges (pH 4.5--9.5), the enzyme remained soluble in 50 mM glycine buffer (pH 9.5) containing 50% glycerol up to concentration of 0.3 mg/ml. Anti-urate oxidase reacted with purified urate oxidase as well as with the crude preparation. After [3H]leucine was injected to rats, urate oxidase and catalase were purified from rat liver at certain intervals, and further precipitated by respective antibodies. The half-life of the catalase was 39 h and that of urate oxidase, 20 h. When the sonicated light mitochondrial fraction was incubated at 37 degrees C and at pH 7.0 or 5.6, inactivation of catalase did not seem to differ between these pH values, and approximately 80% of the catalase activity remained even after 8 h. Urate oxidase was inactivated very rapidly at pH 5.6; only 30% of its activity survived incubation for 6 h. This inactivation was found to occur by some proteolytic process. From these findings, the turnover rate of urate oxidase was found to be different from that of catalase, and this distinction seemed to be due to different sensitivity to some degradative enzymes.", "PMID": 454682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11311", "title": "Activated steroid-receptor complex. Comparison of assays using DNA-cellulose or homologous nuclei.", "content": "When soluble steroid-receptor complexes are exposed to DNA-cellulose only activated complexes bind. The specificity of the binding was shown by its dependence on the presence of hormone during activation. However, prolonged incubation of non-activated steroid-receptor complexes with DNA-cellulose led to a progressive activation of these complexes. When the same hepatic cytosol containing heat-activated [3H]triamcinolone acetonide-receptor complexes was titrated by high concentrations of nuclei or DNA-cellulose the former bound 75% of the complexes, the later only 40%. This decreased binding was due on the one hand to a lower initial interaction between DNA-cellulose and activated complexes than between nuclei and these complexes and on the other hand to increased losses during washes when DNA-cellulose was used. For these reasons nuclei and not DNA-cellulose should be used when accurate measurements of the concentration of activated complexes are required. When only comparative data are needed DNA-cellulose may, however, be employed.", "contents": "Activated steroid-receptor complex. Comparison of assays using DNA-cellulose or homologous nuclei. When soluble steroid-receptor complexes are exposed to DNA-cellulose only activated complexes bind. The specificity of the binding was shown by its dependence on the presence of hormone during activation. However, prolonged incubation of non-activated steroid-receptor complexes with DNA-cellulose led to a progressive activation of these complexes. When the same hepatic cytosol containing heat-activated [3H]triamcinolone acetonide-receptor complexes was titrated by high concentrations of nuclei or DNA-cellulose the former bound 75% of the complexes, the later only 40%. This decreased binding was due on the one hand to a lower initial interaction between DNA-cellulose and activated complexes than between nuclei and these complexes and on the other hand to increased losses during washes when DNA-cellulose was used. For these reasons nuclei and not DNA-cellulose should be used when accurate measurements of the concentration of activated complexes are required. When only comparative data are needed DNA-cellulose may, however, be employed.", "PMID": 454683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11312", "title": "[Myoplasmic fixed charges of the barnacle muscle fiber (author's transl)].", "content": "The experimental model used to study diffusion and electrical conduction in the cytoplasm of large muscle fibers was adapted to evaluate the myoplasmic density of fixed charges. Membranes of myoplasm were prepared and phi X, the myoplasmic thermodynamically effective charge density, was calculated from the membrane potential (Kamo, N., Toyoshima, Y. and Kobatake, Y. (1971) Kolloid Z.u.Z. Polym\u00e8re 1061--1068) when these membranes were used as the partition between two electrolyte solutions. The dilution of KCl in the external solutions reduced phi X, which increases with the reduction of the water content in the membrane of myoplasm. With a water content of 73.0 ml/100 g KCl concentration in the external medium equal to 0.15 M, phi X was evaluated to 0.058 equiv/l. The substitution of KCl by NaCl introduces a reduction in phi X of 20--50% depending on E1KCl] in the external solutions. The addition of ATP, Mg2+, and Ca2+ also causes a reduction of phi B by 30--50% according to the experimental conditions. These results indicate that the fraction of counterions dissociated from the myoplasmic macromolecules is reduced when the concentration of the counterions is diminished or when CKl is replaced by Nal. It also suggests a reduction of phi X during muscular contraction.", "contents": "[Myoplasmic fixed charges of the barnacle muscle fiber (author's transl)]. The experimental model used to study diffusion and electrical conduction in the cytoplasm of large muscle fibers was adapted to evaluate the myoplasmic density of fixed charges. Membranes of myoplasm were prepared and phi X, the myoplasmic thermodynamically effective charge density, was calculated from the membrane potential (Kamo, N., Toyoshima, Y. and Kobatake, Y. (1971) Kolloid Z.u.Z. Polym\u00e8re 1061--1068) when these membranes were used as the partition between two electrolyte solutions. The dilution of KCl in the external solutions reduced phi X, which increases with the reduction of the water content in the membrane of myoplasm. With a water content of 73.0 ml/100 g KCl concentration in the external medium equal to 0.15 M, phi X was evaluated to 0.058 equiv/l. The substitution of KCl by NaCl introduces a reduction in phi X of 20--50% depending on E1KCl] in the external solutions. The addition of ATP, Mg2+, and Ca2+ also causes a reduction of phi B by 30--50% according to the experimental conditions. These results indicate that the fraction of counterions dissociated from the myoplasmic macromolecules is reduced when the concentration of the counterions is diminished or when CKl is replaced by Nal. It also suggests a reduction of phi X during muscular contraction.", "PMID": 454684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11313", "title": "Interaction of metallochromic indicators with calcium sequestering organelles.", "content": "Examples are presented of the interaction between cell organelles and metallochromic indicators used in the measurement of ionized Ca2+. Sarcoplasmic reticulum was found to sequester murexide type indicators along with Ca2+ in the presence of ATP, but not to sequester arsenazo III and antipyrylazo III. The presence of a permeable anion suppresses the sequestration of murexide type indicators by the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In the presence of ruthenium red, both rat liver and beef heart mitochondria release sequestered Ca2+ with arsenazo III, but not with murexide.", "contents": "Interaction of metallochromic indicators with calcium sequestering organelles. Examples are presented of the interaction between cell organelles and metallochromic indicators used in the measurement of ionized Ca2+. Sarcoplasmic reticulum was found to sequester murexide type indicators along with Ca2+ in the presence of ATP, but not to sequester arsenazo III and antipyrylazo III. The presence of a permeable anion suppresses the sequestration of murexide type indicators by the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In the presence of ruthenium red, both rat liver and beef heart mitochondria release sequestered Ca2+ with arsenazo III, but not with murexide.", "PMID": 454685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11314", "title": "Proton N.M.R. study of the conformational dynamics of porcine pancreatic colipase. Titration of aromatic residues.", "content": "The low-field portion of the 360 MHz proton N.M.R. spectrum of native porcine pancreatic colipase has been studied as a function of pH over the pH range 2-12. Resonances associated with the 26 protons of the aromatic rings of the two histidines, two phenylalanines and three tyrosines have been identified and tentatively assigned to specific residues. Titrations of pH yielded apparent pKa's of 7.9, 6.9, 10.4, 10.3 and 11.3 for His I (His 30), His II (His 86), Tyr I (Tyr 56 or 57), Tyr II (Tyr 56 or 57) and Tyr III (Tyr 53) respectively (tentative assignments). The high pKa value of His 30 is attributed to the vicinity of Asp 31. The mobility of the aromatic ring of Tyr 53 is hindered and an upper bound of 500 s-1 on the rate of rotation can be estimated. The aromatic rings of the 2 other tyrosine residues and of the 2 phenylalanine residues can rotate freely on the N.M.R. time scale. The study of perturbations in titration profiles and chemical shift values reveals a specific interaction of His 86 with Tyr I and, to a lesser extent, Tyr II. The existence of this interaction indicates that the protein folding brings in close spatial vicinity two distant regions of the covalent structure to form a \"hydrophobic-aromatic\" site which might be involved in the binding of bile salt micelles to pancreatic colipase.", "contents": "Proton N.M.R. study of the conformational dynamics of porcine pancreatic colipase. Titration of aromatic residues. The low-field portion of the 360 MHz proton N.M.R. spectrum of native porcine pancreatic colipase has been studied as a function of pH over the pH range 2-12. Resonances associated with the 26 protons of the aromatic rings of the two histidines, two phenylalanines and three tyrosines have been identified and tentatively assigned to specific residues. Titrations of pH yielded apparent pKa's of 7.9, 6.9, 10.4, 10.3 and 11.3 for His I (His 30), His II (His 86), Tyr I (Tyr 56 or 57), Tyr II (Tyr 56 or 57) and Tyr III (Tyr 53) respectively (tentative assignments). The high pKa value of His 30 is attributed to the vicinity of Asp 31. The mobility of the aromatic ring of Tyr 53 is hindered and an upper bound of 500 s-1 on the rate of rotation can be estimated. The aromatic rings of the 2 other tyrosine residues and of the 2 phenylalanine residues can rotate freely on the N.M.R. time scale. The study of perturbations in titration profiles and chemical shift values reveals a specific interaction of His 86 with Tyr I and, to a lesser extent, Tyr II. The existence of this interaction indicates that the protein folding brings in close spatial vicinity two distant regions of the covalent structure to form a \"hydrophobic-aromatic\" site which might be involved in the binding of bile salt micelles to pancreatic colipase.", "PMID": 454687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11315", "title": "Pattern of RNA synthesis during the regeneration by Owenia fusiformis (polychaete annelid).", "content": "The binding of [3H] Uridine labelled RNAs and [32P] RNAs to poly U filters using the Sheldon et al. technique (1972) shows an increase in the poly A+ RNA populations from total RNAs and cytoplasmic RNAs in the prereplicative phase of the regenerating process in Owenia fusiformis. This increase confirms that the first stage of this process consists in an activation of the transcription of the genetic material concerning mainly mRNAs synthesis activation.", "contents": "Pattern of RNA synthesis during the regeneration by Owenia fusiformis (polychaete annelid). The binding of [3H] Uridine labelled RNAs and [32P] RNAs to poly U filters using the Sheldon et al. technique (1972) shows an increase in the poly A+ RNA populations from total RNAs and cytoplasmic RNAs in the prereplicative phase of the regenerating process in Owenia fusiformis. This increase confirms that the first stage of this process consists in an activation of the transcription of the genetic material concerning mainly mRNAs synthesis activation.", "PMID": 454688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11316", "title": "[Cytidine and deoxycytidine aminohydrolase activities from Zea mays L. aerial parts: probable existence of two isozymes both of which possess the two activities].", "content": "Enzymatic proteins with deoxycytidine and cytidine aminohydrolase activities were partially purified from Zea mays L. aerial parts by using ammonium sulfate fractionation, adsorption on calcium phosphate gel and chromatography on DEAE-cellulose.", "contents": "[Cytidine and deoxycytidine aminohydrolase activities from Zea mays L. aerial parts: probable existence of two isozymes both of which possess the two activities]. Enzymatic proteins with deoxycytidine and cytidine aminohydrolase activities were partially purified from Zea mays L. aerial parts by using ammonium sulfate fractionation, adsorption on calcium phosphate gel and chromatography on DEAE-cellulose.", "PMID": 454689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11317", "title": "[Characterization of histones and chromatin of the hepatopancreas in Palaemon serratus (Crustacea Natantia)].", "content": "The chromatin of shrimp hepatopancreas has been extracted from isolated nuclei and characterized. Nuclei were prepared in the presence of Cu++ and phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride in order to inhibit the nuclease and protease activities throughout the different purification steps. The purified nuclei are heterogenous in size and show a density of 1,367 g/ml determined on saccharose - glucose gradients. After washing in 0,14 M NaCl and then in 10(-2) M Tris-HCL, pH = 7,6, the nuclei were disrupted in water. The solubilized chromatin was precipitated in 0,15 M.NaCl. This chromatin is characterized by a high level of RNA (RNA/DNA = 0,38) and of non histone proteins (NHP/DNA = 0,6). The denaturation curve showed only one Tm at 69 degrees in 2.10(-4) M.EDTA. When the chromatin was extracted in the presence of staphylococcal nuclease, the Tm reached 80 degrees C. The kinetics of the digestion by the staphylococcal nuclease have been studied and show that 10 per cent of hydrolysis occurs within the first minute. The repeat length of DNA as determined with the polymers of higher order is 189 +/- 5 base pairs. The existence of nucleosomes was confirmed by electron microscopy. The superstructure of chromatin was not completely destroyed after solubilisation with a Potter. The histones were studied by gel electrophoresis after differential staining. The most important feature consists in the presence of two H1, two H2A and two H4. The acetylation levels of the histones were followed after injection of 14C-acetate in vivo. The subfraction H1, 0 was acetylated. Only one H3 was present and the two H2A fractions showed the same level of acetylation. H2B migrated faster than the H2A fractions like in Echinoderms. The two H4 fractions corresponded to two differently acetylated forms. Shrimp hepatopancreas histones were fractionated by molecular sieving on Biogel P 100 and characterized according to their electrophoretic properties as well as their amino-acid content. The amino-acid compositions of the different histone fractions were nearer to Echinoderm and Sipunculid histones, than Calf thymus homologue histones. All the fractions show a weaker basicity. The H3 fraction was the only one showing a lesser variability when compared to Calf thymus H3. The non histone proteins were extracted in 10(-2) M Tris-HCL, pH = 8 and 0.1 per cent SDS. A series of 50 proteins was detected. 80 per cent of the total amount of protein was localized in a molecular weight range comprised between 40 000 and 80 000 daltons. These proteins were compared to the histones and total proteins of sonicated chromatin solubilized by SDS in order to detect proteasic effects.", "contents": "[Characterization of histones and chromatin of the hepatopancreas in Palaemon serratus (Crustacea Natantia)]. The chromatin of shrimp hepatopancreas has been extracted from isolated nuclei and characterized. Nuclei were prepared in the presence of Cu++ and phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride in order to inhibit the nuclease and protease activities throughout the different purification steps. The purified nuclei are heterogenous in size and show a density of 1,367 g/ml determined on saccharose - glucose gradients. After washing in 0,14 M NaCl and then in 10(-2) M Tris-HCL, pH = 7,6, the nuclei were disrupted in water. The solubilized chromatin was precipitated in 0,15 M.NaCl. This chromatin is characterized by a high level of RNA (RNA/DNA = 0,38) and of non histone proteins (NHP/DNA = 0,6). The denaturation curve showed only one Tm at 69 degrees in 2.10(-4) M.EDTA. When the chromatin was extracted in the presence of staphylococcal nuclease, the Tm reached 80 degrees C. The kinetics of the digestion by the staphylococcal nuclease have been studied and show that 10 per cent of hydrolysis occurs within the first minute. The repeat length of DNA as determined with the polymers of higher order is 189 +/- 5 base pairs. The existence of nucleosomes was confirmed by electron microscopy. The superstructure of chromatin was not completely destroyed after solubilisation with a Potter. The histones were studied by gel electrophoresis after differential staining. The most important feature consists in the presence of two H1, two H2A and two H4. The acetylation levels of the histones were followed after injection of 14C-acetate in vivo. The subfraction H1, 0 was acetylated. Only one H3 was present and the two H2A fractions showed the same level of acetylation. H2B migrated faster than the H2A fractions like in Echinoderms. The two H4 fractions corresponded to two differently acetylated forms. Shrimp hepatopancreas histones were fractionated by molecular sieving on Biogel P 100 and characterized according to their electrophoretic properties as well as their amino-acid content. The amino-acid compositions of the different histone fractions were nearer to Echinoderm and Sipunculid histones, than Calf thymus homologue histones. All the fractions show a weaker basicity. The H3 fraction was the only one showing a lesser variability when compared to Calf thymus H3. The non histone proteins were extracted in 10(-2) M Tris-HCL, pH = 8 and 0.1 per cent SDS. A series of 50 proteins was detected. 80 per cent of the total amount of protein was localized in a molecular weight range comprised between 40 000 and 80 000 daltons. These proteins were compared to the histones and total proteins of sonicated chromatin solubilized by SDS in order to detect proteasic effects.", "PMID": 454690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11318", "title": "Prostaglandins E2 and F alpha levels in white and brown adipose tissues of cold acclimated rats as measured by a new micromethod.", "content": "A new micro-method was used to determine the effects of cold acclimation of rats on the levels of prostaglandin E2 and F alpha in both white and brown adipose tissues. Whereas PGF alpha levels were significantly higher than PGE2 levels in white fat, no difference between the amounts of the two prostaglandins was observed in brown fat. In both tissues, cold acclimation did not induce any change in prostaglandin levels.", "contents": "Prostaglandins E2 and F alpha levels in white and brown adipose tissues of cold acclimated rats as measured by a new micromethod. A new micro-method was used to determine the effects of cold acclimation of rats on the levels of prostaglandin E2 and F alpha in both white and brown adipose tissues. Whereas PGF alpha levels were significantly higher than PGE2 levels in white fat, no difference between the amounts of the two prostaglandins was observed in brown fat. In both tissues, cold acclimation did not induce any change in prostaglandin levels.", "PMID": 454694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11319", "title": "[Phospholipase A2 activity in rat platelets].", "content": "Rat blood platelets show phospholipase A2 activities twenty times higher than human platelets. The breakdown of PE at pH 7.2 is linear for 15 minutes. There is no degradation at pH less than 5; the maximal activity is in the pH range 5.5-7.5. The presence of Ca2+ increases the phospholipase activity; an excess is not inhibitory. The optimal activity is obtained with 16 microM substrate concentration. Substrate inhibition is observed when the concentration exceeds 25 microM.", "contents": "[Phospholipase A2 activity in rat platelets]. Rat blood platelets show phospholipase A2 activities twenty times higher than human platelets. The breakdown of PE at pH 7.2 is linear for 15 minutes. There is no degradation at pH less than 5; the maximal activity is in the pH range 5.5-7.5. The presence of Ca2+ increases the phospholipase activity; an excess is not inhibitory. The optimal activity is obtained with 16 microM substrate concentration. Substrate inhibition is observed when the concentration exceeds 25 microM.", "PMID": 454695} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11320", "title": "Use of p-aminophenyl D and L-lactic acids and p-aminophenyl pyruvic acid as effectors in the affinity chromatography of lactate dehydrogenase.", "content": "p-Aminophenyl pyruvic acid and D-p-amino-phenyllactic acid were immobilized on a new synthetic acrylic carrier bearing acylating N-succinimidyl ester groups. The derivatives obtained were used successfully to purify lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) by affinity chromatography, the elution being carried out by means of NADH or preferably L-phenyllactic acid. Moreover, the specific activity of the LDH contained in a human blood serum was increased 270 times, using L-p-aminophenyllactic acid immobilized on a mixed polyacrylic agarose carrier.", "contents": "Use of p-aminophenyl D and L-lactic acids and p-aminophenyl pyruvic acid as effectors in the affinity chromatography of lactate dehydrogenase. p-Aminophenyl pyruvic acid and D-p-amino-phenyllactic acid were immobilized on a new synthetic acrylic carrier bearing acylating N-succinimidyl ester groups. The derivatives obtained were used successfully to purify lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) by affinity chromatography, the elution being carried out by means of NADH or preferably L-phenyllactic acid. Moreover, the specific activity of the LDH contained in a human blood serum was increased 270 times, using L-p-aminophenyllactic acid immobilized on a mixed polyacrylic agarose carrier.", "PMID": 454696} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11321", "title": "Protein synthesis in liver, muscle and gill of mullet (Mugil cephalus L.) in vivo.", "content": "1. Protein synthesis in mullet was measured by use of pulse injections of 14Cleucine into the hepatic portal circulation and by 4-hr continuous infusion of 14Ctyrosine into the dorsal aorta. 2. Liver protein synthesis was 37 mg/day per g wet weight of tissue. Plasma proteins accounted for about 25% of total liver protein synthesis. Replacement rate for intrahepatic proteins was 20%/day. Average polypeptide chain synthesis time was 3 min. 3. Gill protein synthesis was comparable to that in liver with a replacement rate of 23%/day. 4. Muscle protein synthetic rate was 0.54%/day, comparable to rates in rabbit and sheep when temperature difference is taken into account. 5. Constant infusion is shown to be a feasible technique for measurement of protein metabolism of fish in vivo.", "contents": "Protein synthesis in liver, muscle and gill of mullet (Mugil cephalus L.) in vivo. 1. Protein synthesis in mullet was measured by use of pulse injections of 14Cleucine into the hepatic portal circulation and by 4-hr continuous infusion of 14Ctyrosine into the dorsal aorta. 2. Liver protein synthesis was 37 mg/day per g wet weight of tissue. Plasma proteins accounted for about 25% of total liver protein synthesis. Replacement rate for intrahepatic proteins was 20%/day. Average polypeptide chain synthesis time was 3 min. 3. Gill protein synthesis was comparable to that in liver with a replacement rate of 23%/day. 4. Muscle protein synthetic rate was 0.54%/day, comparable to rates in rabbit and sheep when temperature difference is taken into account. 5. Constant infusion is shown to be a feasible technique for measurement of protein metabolism of fish in vivo.", "PMID": 454697} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11322", "title": "The cytochemistry of Limulus eggs.", "content": "Cytochemical studies on uninseminated mature eggs of Limulus demonstrate the presence of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins in the egg envelopes and yolk. The vitelline envelope, cortical region and yolk are rich in 1,2-glycols, with the vitelline envelope, containing fewer reactive 1,2-glycol groups than other components of the egg. Neutral mucopolysaccharides are found in the cortical region and yolk, but only the cortical region of the eggs demonstrate the presence of sulfated mucosubstances (which are in part glycoprotein in nature) and glucose-6-phosphatase. Protein is evident in all egg components. Biochemical analysis demonstrate the protein in the egg envelopes of uninseminated eggs is composed of sixteen amino acids while that of developing eggs contain seventeen amino acid residues. Electrovalent linkages and non-S-S- covalent linkages between protein chains are shown to be instrumental in maintaining the stuctural integrity of Limulus egg envelopes. Neutral lipids, unsaturated lipids, phospholipids and fatty acids are demonstrated in yolk bodies and lipoproteins, unsaturated lipids and fatty acids constitute part of the egg envelopes. DNA is concentrated in the cortical region and the yolk bodies", "contents": "The cytochemistry of Limulus eggs. Cytochemical studies on uninseminated mature eggs of Limulus demonstrate the presence of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins in the egg envelopes and yolk. The vitelline envelope, cortical region and yolk are rich in 1,2-glycols, with the vitelline envelope, containing fewer reactive 1,2-glycol groups than other components of the egg. Neutral mucopolysaccharides are found in the cortical region and yolk, but only the cortical region of the eggs demonstrate the presence of sulfated mucosubstances (which are in part glycoprotein in nature) and glucose-6-phosphatase. Protein is evident in all egg components. Biochemical analysis demonstrate the protein in the egg envelopes of uninseminated eggs is composed of sixteen amino acids while that of developing eggs contain seventeen amino acid residues. Electrovalent linkages and non-S-S- covalent linkages between protein chains are shown to be instrumental in maintaining the stuctural integrity of Limulus egg envelopes. Neutral lipids, unsaturated lipids, phospholipids and fatty acids are demonstrated in yolk bodies and lipoproteins, unsaturated lipids and fatty acids constitute part of the egg envelopes. DNA is concentrated in the cortical region and the yolk bodies", "PMID": 454698} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11323", "title": "Role of aggregation factor and cell type in sponge cell adhesion.", "content": "A pair of sponge species, Microciona prolifera and Halichondria bowerbanki, which lack mutual species specificity in their aggregation \"factor\", are useful in establishing the mechanisms of action of these factors. These sponges were dissociated both mechanically, which leaves the factor on the cell surface, and by Humphrey's (1963) method, which isolates the factor from the cells. The adhesive specificities which arose, in the various combinations tested, point to an intercellular factor bridge consisting of a single symmetrical unit. An analysis of most other workers' results is consistent with this interpretation. However, MacLennan and Dodd's (1967) results using other species would require a bridge consisting of two or more asymmetrical units. Differences were found in the specificity of adhesion of various types of cells within a single species. This presents a heretofore unconsidered problem in assesing the adhesive factor's mechanism of action. Three structurally distinct cell types were separated from a suspension of dissociated Microciona cells by velocity sedimentation. These cells differ greatly in adhesiveness. The differences in adhesion are correlated with numbers and positions of cells incorporated into aggregates. Such differences are considered in explaining the mechanism of action of the factors.", "contents": "Role of aggregation factor and cell type in sponge cell adhesion. A pair of sponge species, Microciona prolifera and Halichondria bowerbanki, which lack mutual species specificity in their aggregation \"factor\", are useful in establishing the mechanisms of action of these factors. These sponges were dissociated both mechanically, which leaves the factor on the cell surface, and by Humphrey's (1963) method, which isolates the factor from the cells. The adhesive specificities which arose, in the various combinations tested, point to an intercellular factor bridge consisting of a single symmetrical unit. An analysis of most other workers' results is consistent with this interpretation. However, MacLennan and Dodd's (1967) results using other species would require a bridge consisting of two or more asymmetrical units. Differences were found in the specificity of adhesion of various types of cells within a single species. This presents a heretofore unconsidered problem in assesing the adhesive factor's mechanism of action. Three structurally distinct cell types were separated from a suspension of dissociated Microciona cells by velocity sedimentation. These cells differ greatly in adhesiveness. The differences in adhesion are correlated with numbers and positions of cells incorporated into aggregates. Such differences are considered in explaining the mechanism of action of the factors.", "PMID": 454699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11324", "title": "Toxicity and pharmacology of extracts from dorid nudibranches.", "content": "1. Aqueous extracts of digestive glands of specimens of the dorid nudibranchs Cadlina flavomaculata, Doriopsilla albopunctata, Anisodoris nobilis, Archidoris montereyenis, and A. odhneri were lethal when injected into shore crabs and when injected intraperitoneally into mice. 2. Aqueous extracts of the degestive glands of Doriopsilla albopunctata and of Anisodoris nobilis were shown by bioassay (guinea pig ileum)and by chemical determination to contain histamine. The amount present was far too small to account for the toxicity of the glands. 3. Extracts of the digestive glands of Anisodoris nobilis were fractionated by column chromatography on Biogel P-2 to yield an active fraction designated \"dorid toxin\". This produces lethargy and bradycardia in mice. In anesthetized rats it produces sustained (60 min or more) bradycardia and hypotension. On isolated hearts, especially spontaneously beating guinea pig atria, it has negative inotropic and chronotropic effects. 4. Dorid toxin has a molecular weight under 8000. It is heat stable and is not destroyed by trypsin, chymotrypsin or Pronase. It is therefore unlikely that it is a polypeptide.", "contents": "Toxicity and pharmacology of extracts from dorid nudibranches. 1. Aqueous extracts of digestive glands of specimens of the dorid nudibranchs Cadlina flavomaculata, Doriopsilla albopunctata, Anisodoris nobilis, Archidoris montereyenis, and A. odhneri were lethal when injected into shore crabs and when injected intraperitoneally into mice. 2. Aqueous extracts of the degestive glands of Doriopsilla albopunctata and of Anisodoris nobilis were shown by bioassay (guinea pig ileum)and by chemical determination to contain histamine. The amount present was far too small to account for the toxicity of the glands. 3. Extracts of the digestive glands of Anisodoris nobilis were fractionated by column chromatography on Biogel P-2 to yield an active fraction designated \"dorid toxin\". This produces lethargy and bradycardia in mice. In anesthetized rats it produces sustained (60 min or more) bradycardia and hypotension. On isolated hearts, especially spontaneously beating guinea pig atria, it has negative inotropic and chronotropic effects. 4. Dorid toxin has a molecular weight under 8000. It is heat stable and is not destroyed by trypsin, chymotrypsin or Pronase. It is therefore unlikely that it is a polypeptide.", "PMID": 454700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11325", "title": "Antennular sensilla of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina.", "content": "1. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the external morphology of setae found on the antennules of adults and nauplii of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina (L.). The permeability of the antennular setae was studied by means of Slifer's crystal violet method. 2. Each antennule of an adult brine shrimp possessed a terminal cluster of sensory setae. Within a cluster there were two morphologically distinct kinds of sensilla, here designated type 1 and type 2. Three type 1 sensilla were observed on every antennule examined. The number of type 2 sensilla per antennule was usually four or five. 3. Type 1 sensilla of adults were 43 to 80 micrometer long and simple in external morphology. They were widest at the base, decreased in diameter gradually, and terminated as a finely tapered tip. No pores were resolved by scanning electron microscopy. 4. Type 2 sensilla of adults were shorter (shaft length, 12 to 23 micrometer) and displayed a single pore at the tip (average pore diameter, 0.4 micrometer). In thin section they were seen to possess a distinctive articular specialization of the cuticle at the base of the seta. 5. Dye penetration experiments indicated that type 2 sensilla were permeable to aqueous crystal violet, whereas type 1 sensilla were not. 6. The antennular setae of nauplii resembled type 1 sensilla in general shape, in being impermeable to crystal violet, and in lacking a terminal pore and basal articular specialization. Moreover, a total of three setae was normally present on each naupliar antennule, and the same number of type 1 sensilla was found on each adult antennule examined. If the three naupliar setae represent a developmental stage in the formation of three adult sensilla, available observations suggest that the larval setae are developmentally related to type 1, rather than to type 2 adult sensilla.", "contents": "Antennular sensilla of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina. 1. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the external morphology of setae found on the antennules of adults and nauplii of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina (L.). The permeability of the antennular setae was studied by means of Slifer's crystal violet method. 2. Each antennule of an adult brine shrimp possessed a terminal cluster of sensory setae. Within a cluster there were two morphologically distinct kinds of sensilla, here designated type 1 and type 2. Three type 1 sensilla were observed on every antennule examined. The number of type 2 sensilla per antennule was usually four or five. 3. Type 1 sensilla of adults were 43 to 80 micrometer long and simple in external morphology. They were widest at the base, decreased in diameter gradually, and terminated as a finely tapered tip. No pores were resolved by scanning electron microscopy. 4. Type 2 sensilla of adults were shorter (shaft length, 12 to 23 micrometer) and displayed a single pore at the tip (average pore diameter, 0.4 micrometer). In thin section they were seen to possess a distinctive articular specialization of the cuticle at the base of the seta. 5. Dye penetration experiments indicated that type 2 sensilla were permeable to aqueous crystal violet, whereas type 1 sensilla were not. 6. The antennular setae of nauplii resembled type 1 sensilla in general shape, in being impermeable to crystal violet, and in lacking a terminal pore and basal articular specialization. Moreover, a total of three setae was normally present on each naupliar antennule, and the same number of type 1 sensilla was found on each adult antennule examined. If the three naupliar setae represent a developmental stage in the formation of three adult sensilla, available observations suggest that the larval setae are developmentally related to type 1, rather than to type 2 adult sensilla.", "PMID": 454701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11326", "title": "Development of vestigial tail muscle acetylcholinesterase in embryos of an anural ascidian species.", "content": "1. The ascidian Molgula arenata produces an anural larva lacking a tail and other structural features of typical urodele larvae in the family Molglidae, yet its embryos developed a histochemically detectable acetylcholinesterase in the tail muscle rudiment. Development of the myoblasts seemed to fail during the neurula stage. 2. Larval enzyme activity occurred at a mean of 5--6% of the level found in the urodele species Molgula occidentalis and Molgula manhattensis, as measured by scanning integrating microdensitometry of the histochemical reaction product. Some anural larvae had as much as 20% of the enzyme activity in urodele larvae. 3. This example of vestigial expression in the absence of other urodele larval features further illustrates the autonomy of a histospecific enzyme development thought to be controlled by an egg cytoplasmic determinant. Partial suppression of the determinant might be the cause of this diminished expression. 4. Two other anural molgulid species, Molgula occulta and Bostrichobranchus pilularis, did not have vestigial larval enzyme and possibly have lost the determinant completely.", "contents": "Development of vestigial tail muscle acetylcholinesterase in embryos of an anural ascidian species. 1. The ascidian Molgula arenata produces an anural larva lacking a tail and other structural features of typical urodele larvae in the family Molglidae, yet its embryos developed a histochemically detectable acetylcholinesterase in the tail muscle rudiment. Development of the myoblasts seemed to fail during the neurula stage. 2. Larval enzyme activity occurred at a mean of 5--6% of the level found in the urodele species Molgula occidentalis and Molgula manhattensis, as measured by scanning integrating microdensitometry of the histochemical reaction product. Some anural larvae had as much as 20% of the enzyme activity in urodele larvae. 3. This example of vestigial expression in the absence of other urodele larval features further illustrates the autonomy of a histospecific enzyme development thought to be controlled by an egg cytoplasmic determinant. Partial suppression of the determinant might be the cause of this diminished expression. 4. Two other anural molgulid species, Molgula occulta and Bostrichobranchus pilularis, did not have vestigial larval enzyme and possibly have lost the determinant completely.", "PMID": 454702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11327", "title": "The internal representation of solid shape with respect to vision.", "content": "It is argued that the internal model of any object must take the form of a function, such that for any intended action the resulting reafference is predictable. This function can be derived explicitly for the case of visual perception of rigid bodies by ambulant observers. The function depends on physical causation, not physiology; consequently, one can make a priori statements about possible internal models. A posteriori it seems likely that the orientation sensitive units described by Hubel and Wiesel constitute a physiological substrate subserving the extraction of the invariants of this function. The function is used to define a measure for the visual complexity of solid shape. Relations with Gestalt theories of perception are discussed.", "contents": "The internal representation of solid shape with respect to vision. It is argued that the internal model of any object must take the form of a function, such that for any intended action the resulting reafference is predictable. This function can be derived explicitly for the case of visual perception of rigid bodies by ambulant observers. The function depends on physical causation, not physiology; consequently, one can make a priori statements about possible internal models. A posteriori it seems likely that the orientation sensitive units described by Hubel and Wiesel constitute a physiological substrate subserving the extraction of the invariants of this function. The function is used to define a measure for the visual complexity of solid shape. Relations with Gestalt theories of perception are discussed.", "PMID": 454703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11328", "title": "Initial processing of visual information within the retina and the LGN.", "content": "The initial stage of information processing by the visual system reduces the information contained in the continuous image on the retina into a discrete set of responses which are carried from the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) to the visual cortex. -- 1. The optimal sampling of the light intensity distribution in the visual environment is achieved only if each channel in the visual pathways carries undistorted information corresponding to an image element. The visual system approaches as closely as possible the scheme of optimal spatial sampling, retaining the full information on the low spatial frequency content of the object light intensity. The ideal receptive field of a sustained LGN cell is then of the form J1(Kr)/Kr. -- 2. The experimentally determined receptive fields of sustained LGN cells (and to some extent retinal ganglion cells as well) in cat closely resemble the functional form J1(Kr)/Kr. The centre-surround organization of the receptive fields is therefore understood as a scheme which leads to a maximal information flow through the visual pathways. -- 3. The optimal sampling scheme cannot be realized by the retina alone, because of restrictions on the size of neural networks. It is therefore constructed in two stages, ending at the LGN level. A recombination of ganglion cell signals into optimal receptive fields is a major role of the LGN.", "contents": "Initial processing of visual information within the retina and the LGN. The initial stage of information processing by the visual system reduces the information contained in the continuous image on the retina into a discrete set of responses which are carried from the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) to the visual cortex. -- 1. The optimal sampling of the light intensity distribution in the visual environment is achieved only if each channel in the visual pathways carries undistorted information corresponding to an image element. The visual system approaches as closely as possible the scheme of optimal spatial sampling, retaining the full information on the low spatial frequency content of the object light intensity. The ideal receptive field of a sustained LGN cell is then of the form J1(Kr)/Kr. -- 2. The experimentally determined receptive fields of sustained LGN cells (and to some extent retinal ganglion cells as well) in cat closely resemble the functional form J1(Kr)/Kr. The centre-surround organization of the receptive fields is therefore understood as a scheme which leads to a maximal information flow through the visual pathways. -- 3. The optimal sampling scheme cannot be realized by the retina alone, because of restrictions on the size of neural networks. It is therefore constructed in two stages, ending at the LGN level. A recombination of ganglion cell signals into optimal receptive fields is a major role of the LGN.", "PMID": 454704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11329", "title": "Generation of Gaussian noise with improved quasi-white properties.", "content": "Problems of hitherto used and suggested random signals for the identification of non-linear systems are reviewed. Two processes for the practical generation of random signals are proposed which avoid most of the shortcomings of the former test signals.", "contents": "Generation of Gaussian noise with improved quasi-white properties. Problems of hitherto used and suggested random signals for the identification of non-linear systems are reviewed. Two processes for the practical generation of random signals are proposed which avoid most of the shortcomings of the former test signals.", "PMID": 454705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11330", "title": "Human eye tracking as a sequential input adaptive process.", "content": "Sequential input adaptive system theory is applied to human eye tracking of targets with one-dimensional motion defined by since functions, sums of sine functions and triangle functions. The sequential theory describes the mean eye tracking movements of two subjects for these inputs. The theory is predictive for irregular inputs in that when its parameters for a subject are identified and adjusted for a reference input, it then predicts mean eye tracking behavior for that subject for inputs of comparable complexity.", "contents": "Human eye tracking as a sequential input adaptive process. Sequential input adaptive system theory is applied to human eye tracking of targets with one-dimensional motion defined by since functions, sums of sine functions and triangle functions. The sequential theory describes the mean eye tracking movements of two subjects for these inputs. The theory is predictive for irregular inputs in that when its parameters for a subject are identified and adjusted for a reference input, it then predicts mean eye tracking behavior for that subject for inputs of comparable complexity.", "PMID": 454706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11331", "title": "On the perception of some geometric properties of rotating three dimensional objects.", "content": "Various observations and conjectures have been made about how we perceive three dimensional objects under monocular viewing conditions; in particular, when such objects are rotating. In this paper these proposals are reviewed and reinterpreted in the light of geometric properties of objects and their projections. Some results are also presented which support the conclusion that the visual system, in reconstructing the object from its projections, requires a fixed time to establish the objects curvature and torsion parameters. In the perceptual reconstruction process these parameters assume positive or negative values, and this equivocation is related to a form of the adjacency principle involving central projections and \"perceptual geodesics\".", "contents": "On the perception of some geometric properties of rotating three dimensional objects. Various observations and conjectures have been made about how we perceive three dimensional objects under monocular viewing conditions; in particular, when such objects are rotating. In this paper these proposals are reviewed and reinterpreted in the light of geometric properties of objects and their projections. Some results are also presented which support the conclusion that the visual system, in reconstructing the object from its projections, requires a fixed time to establish the objects curvature and torsion parameters. In the perceptual reconstruction process these parameters assume positive or negative values, and this equivocation is related to a form of the adjacency principle involving central projections and \"perceptual geodesics\".", "PMID": 454707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11332", "title": "The response of a spatially distributed neuron to white noise current injection.", "content": "The depolarization of passive nerve cylinder or dendritic tree in the equivalent cylinder representation is assumed to satisfy the cable equation. We consider in detail the effects of white noise current injection at a given location for the case of sealed end boundary conditions and for an initial resting state. The depolarization at a point is a Gaussian random process but is not Markovian. Expression (infinite series) are obtained for the expectation, variance, spatial and temporal covariances of the depolarization. We examine the steady state expectation and variance and investigate how these are approached in time over the whole neuronal surface. We consider the relative contributions of various terms in the series for the expectation and variance of the depolarization at x = 0 (soma, trigger zone, recording electrode) for various positions of the input process. It is found that different numbers of terms must be taken to obtain a reasonable approximation depending on whether the stimulus is at proximal, central or distal parts of the dendritic tree. We consider briefly the interspike time problem and see in an approximate way how spatial effects are important in determining the mean time between impulses.", "contents": "The response of a spatially distributed neuron to white noise current injection. The depolarization of passive nerve cylinder or dendritic tree in the equivalent cylinder representation is assumed to satisfy the cable equation. We consider in detail the effects of white noise current injection at a given location for the case of sealed end boundary conditions and for an initial resting state. The depolarization at a point is a Gaussian random process but is not Markovian. Expression (infinite series) are obtained for the expectation, variance, spatial and temporal covariances of the depolarization. We examine the steady state expectation and variance and investigate how these are approached in time over the whole neuronal surface. We consider the relative contributions of various terms in the series for the expectation and variance of the depolarization at x = 0 (soma, trigger zone, recording electrode) for various positions of the input process. It is found that different numbers of terms must be taken to obtain a reasonable approximation depending on whether the stimulus is at proximal, central or distal parts of the dendritic tree. We consider briefly the interspike time problem and see in an approximate way how spatial effects are important in determining the mean time between impulses.", "PMID": 454708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11333", "title": "[Lipid regulation of carbohydrate transport system in Mycoplasma].", "content": "Cultivation of Acholeplasma laidlawii cells in media containing unsaturated fatty acids results in changes of the physiological state of the membrane lipid bilayer due to preferable incorporation of an unsaturated fatty acid into lipids. The lipids are capable to regulate the transport activity since the transport rates for glucose, 3-O-methyl-C-glucose, glucerol and erythritol change considerably when the cells are cultivated in media containing different unsaturated fatty acids. The transport activity is also affected by the length of the carbon chain, the degree of the fatty acid saturation and the presence of cholesterol. At the same time the activation energy of the transport activity also changes, which suggests that the regulation by lipids (presumably local changes of the physical properties of lipid domen) is involved in the process of the carrier association with the substrate and/or in translocation of this complex through the membrane.", "contents": "[Lipid regulation of carbohydrate transport system in Mycoplasma]. Cultivation of Acholeplasma laidlawii cells in media containing unsaturated fatty acids results in changes of the physiological state of the membrane lipid bilayer due to preferable incorporation of an unsaturated fatty acid into lipids. The lipids are capable to regulate the transport activity since the transport rates for glucose, 3-O-methyl-C-glucose, glucerol and erythritol change considerably when the cells are cultivated in media containing different unsaturated fatty acids. The transport activity is also affected by the length of the carbon chain, the degree of the fatty acid saturation and the presence of cholesterol. At the same time the activation energy of the transport activity also changes, which suggests that the regulation by lipids (presumably local changes of the physical properties of lipid domen) is involved in the process of the carrier association with the substrate and/or in translocation of this complex through the membrane.", "PMID": 454709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11334", "title": "[Proteinases in growth and spore formation of Bacillus thuringiensis].", "content": "Some serine proteases and leucine aminopeptidases were detected inside and outside the cells during the analysis of three crystalline and two acrystalline strains of Bac. thuringiensis var. galleriae. The data obtained on the protease formation during growth and sporulation and the level of their activity are indicative of intracellular proteases involvement in spore- and crystal formation. The enzymes isolated from the culture medium do not probably take part in these processes. The intracellular enzymes may account for the different crystal protein composition of various strains due to limited proteolysis of crystal proteins in the course of biosynthesis.", "contents": "[Proteinases in growth and spore formation of Bacillus thuringiensis]. Some serine proteases and leucine aminopeptidases were detected inside and outside the cells during the analysis of three crystalline and two acrystalline strains of Bac. thuringiensis var. galleriae. The data obtained on the protease formation during growth and sporulation and the level of their activity are indicative of intracellular proteases involvement in spore- and crystal formation. The enzymes isolated from the culture medium do not probably take part in these processes. The intracellular enzymes may account for the different crystal protein composition of various strains due to limited proteolysis of crystal proteins in the course of biosynthesis.", "PMID": 454710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11335", "title": "[Bacterial membrane proteins. Properties of Micrococcus lysodeikticus NADH dehydrogenase].", "content": "NADH dehydrogenase was isolated from M. lysodeikticus membranes with FAD as a prosthetic group. It was found the enzyme molecular weight is about 140000 in 0,01 M phosphate buffer, pH 7,4 in 1% Triton X-100. The enzyme molecules are dimers consisting of two subunits with molecular weight of 70000. The content of alpha-helical regions is 30%, that of beta-forms is 13%. The protein globule is cross-linked with the disulfide bonds and has hydrophobic regions on its surface.", "contents": "[Bacterial membrane proteins. Properties of Micrococcus lysodeikticus NADH dehydrogenase]. NADH dehydrogenase was isolated from M. lysodeikticus membranes with FAD as a prosthetic group. It was found the enzyme molecular weight is about 140000 in 0,01 M phosphate buffer, pH 7,4 in 1% Triton X-100. The enzyme molecules are dimers consisting of two subunits with molecular weight of 70000. The content of alpha-helical regions is 30%, that of beta-forms is 13%. The protein globule is cross-linked with the disulfide bonds and has hydrophobic regions on its surface.", "PMID": 454711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11336", "title": "[Primary structure of abnormal E-like hemoglobin].", "content": "An E-like abnormal hemoglobin was detected in a hematological patient and one of the members of her family. The composition of blood hemolyzates was characterized using acetate cellulose electrophoresis. The abnormal beta-chain was isolated by ion-exchange chromatography of total globin on CM-cellulose. Using peptide mapping of the abnormal beta-chain trypsin hydrolysates, it was shown that the amino acid substitution occurs in peptide beta T3. The amino acid analysis and determination of the abnormal fragment C-terminal amino acid allowed to establish the locus and type of this substitution. The first case of hemoglobin E(alpha 2 beta 2 26Glu leads to Lys) identification on the territory of the USSR is reported.", "contents": "[Primary structure of abnormal E-like hemoglobin]. An E-like abnormal hemoglobin was detected in a hematological patient and one of the members of her family. The composition of blood hemolyzates was characterized using acetate cellulose electrophoresis. The abnormal beta-chain was isolated by ion-exchange chromatography of total globin on CM-cellulose. Using peptide mapping of the abnormal beta-chain trypsin hydrolysates, it was shown that the amino acid substitution occurs in peptide beta T3. The amino acid analysis and determination of the abnormal fragment C-terminal amino acid allowed to establish the locus and type of this substitution. The first case of hemoglobin E(alpha 2 beta 2 26Glu leads to Lys) identification on the territory of the USSR is reported.", "PMID": 454712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11337", "title": "[Inhibition of succinate and NADH oxidases of submitochondrial particles by iron chelators and sulfhydryl reagents].", "content": "The inhibition of succinate- and NADH-oxidase activities of submitochondrial particles by 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenantroline was studied. The inhibition was shown to increase when the particles were pretreated with SH-reagents. The treatment of submitochondrial particles with ethanol in the presence of 1,10-phenantroline resulted in a complete inactivation of succinate oxidase and succinate: tetramethyl-n-phenyldiamine reductase; the succinate PMS reductase activity was only partially inhibited after such treatment. It is concluded that tetramethyl-n-phenyldiamine and phenazine metasulfate react with different sites of the succinate dehydrogenase complex. The changes in the properties of submitochondrial particles after ethanol--phenantroline treatment are apparently due to the effect of non-polar solvent rather than to the extraction of non-haem iron.", "contents": "[Inhibition of succinate and NADH oxidases of submitochondrial particles by iron chelators and sulfhydryl reagents]. The inhibition of succinate- and NADH-oxidase activities of submitochondrial particles by 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenantroline was studied. The inhibition was shown to increase when the particles were pretreated with SH-reagents. The treatment of submitochondrial particles with ethanol in the presence of 1,10-phenantroline resulted in a complete inactivation of succinate oxidase and succinate: tetramethyl-n-phenyldiamine reductase; the succinate PMS reductase activity was only partially inhibited after such treatment. It is concluded that tetramethyl-n-phenyldiamine and phenazine metasulfate react with different sites of the succinate dehydrogenase complex. The changes in the properties of submitochondrial particles after ethanol--phenantroline treatment are apparently due to the effect of non-polar solvent rather than to the extraction of non-haem iron.", "PMID": 454713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11338", "title": "[Decarboxylation of malonyl-CoA and biosynthesis of mevalonic acid in rat liver].", "content": "Biosynthesis of mevalonic acid (MVA), total formation of 14CO2 from [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA and the activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase in subcellular fractions of rat liver were studied. The dependence of the rate of MVA biosynthesis on malonyl-CoA concentration was found to be linear both in 140,000 g supernatant and solubilized microsomal fractions. It was shown that in a composite system (140,000 g supernatant fraction added to washed microsomes, 10 : 1) the optimal concentration ratio for the substrates of MVA biosynthesis (malonyl-CoA and acetyl-CoA) is 1 to 2. In the absence of acetyl-CoA decarboxylation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA was prevalent. In all subcellular fractions studied decarboxylation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA prevailed over its incorporation into MVA, total non-saponified lipid fraction and fatty acids. The degree of malonyl-CoA, decarboxylation was not correlated with the rate of its incorporation into MVA, i. e. the increase in the 14CO2 formation was not accompanied by stimulation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA incorporation either into MVA or into total non-saponified lipid fractions. The incorporation of [1-14C]acetyl-CoA into MVA under the same conditions was considerably lower than that of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA. In all subcellular fractions under study the activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase was found. The experimental data suggest that a remarkable part of malonyl-CoA is incorporated into MVA without preliminary decarboxylation. A possible role of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase as an enzyme which protects the cell against accumulation of malonyl-CoA and its immediate metabolites -- malonate and methylmalonyl-CoA is disucssed.", "contents": "[Decarboxylation of malonyl-CoA and biosynthesis of mevalonic acid in rat liver]. Biosynthesis of mevalonic acid (MVA), total formation of 14CO2 from [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA and the activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase in subcellular fractions of rat liver were studied. The dependence of the rate of MVA biosynthesis on malonyl-CoA concentration was found to be linear both in 140,000 g supernatant and solubilized microsomal fractions. It was shown that in a composite system (140,000 g supernatant fraction added to washed microsomes, 10 : 1) the optimal concentration ratio for the substrates of MVA biosynthesis (malonyl-CoA and acetyl-CoA) is 1 to 2. In the absence of acetyl-CoA decarboxylation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA was prevalent. In all subcellular fractions studied decarboxylation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA prevailed over its incorporation into MVA, total non-saponified lipid fraction and fatty acids. The degree of malonyl-CoA, decarboxylation was not correlated with the rate of its incorporation into MVA, i. e. the increase in the 14CO2 formation was not accompanied by stimulation of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA incorporation either into MVA or into total non-saponified lipid fractions. The incorporation of [1-14C]acetyl-CoA into MVA under the same conditions was considerably lower than that of [1,3-14C]malonyl-CoA. In all subcellular fractions under study the activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase was found. The experimental data suggest that a remarkable part of malonyl-CoA is incorporated into MVA without preliminary decarboxylation. A possible role of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase as an enzyme which protects the cell against accumulation of malonyl-CoA and its immediate metabolites -- malonate and methylmalonyl-CoA is disucssed.", "PMID": 454714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11339", "title": "[Changes in DNA methylation in alfalfa plants infected with Cuscuta and tissue differences in DNA methylation of the parasite plants].", "content": "The tissue-specific differences in the 5-methylcytosine (m5C) content in total DNA of the parasite plant Cuscuta reflexa have been found: DNA from apical parts of the plant is less methylated (m5C = 4,2 mol %) as compared to the DNA from haustoria and posthaustorial regions (m5C = 5,4 mol %). The base compositions of total DNA preparations from C. reflexa grown on various hosts are similar. The m5C amount in stem DNA of the alfalfa plant infected with C. reflexa is by approximately 25% higher than that in the non-infected plant DNA. The GC content in alfalfa DNA does not change as a result of infection. Thus, the parasite induces the hypermethylation of DNA in the host plant. It is assumed that the changes in DNA methylation induced by the parasite plant may play a regulatory role and may cause changes in transcription and replication of host DNA.", "contents": "[Changes in DNA methylation in alfalfa plants infected with Cuscuta and tissue differences in DNA methylation of the parasite plants]. The tissue-specific differences in the 5-methylcytosine (m5C) content in total DNA of the parasite plant Cuscuta reflexa have been found: DNA from apical parts of the plant is less methylated (m5C = 4,2 mol %) as compared to the DNA from haustoria and posthaustorial regions (m5C = 5,4 mol %). The base compositions of total DNA preparations from C. reflexa grown on various hosts are similar. The m5C amount in stem DNA of the alfalfa plant infected with C. reflexa is by approximately 25% higher than that in the non-infected plant DNA. The GC content in alfalfa DNA does not change as a result of infection. Thus, the parasite induces the hypermethylation of DNA in the host plant. It is assumed that the changes in DNA methylation induced by the parasite plant may play a regulatory role and may cause changes in transcription and replication of host DNA.", "PMID": 454715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11340", "title": "[Mechanisms of liver transketolase activation in B1-deficient rats after administration of thiamine].", "content": "Gel filtration and equilibrium dialysis demonstrated that the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats does not practically bind C-TDP in vitro. An addition of the excess of non-labelled coenzyme does not increase the transketolase activity. The data obtained suggest that transketolase activation in the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats after administration of thiamine in vivo is due to stimulation of the additional synthesis of the enzyme protein rather than to the saturation of the free apoenzyme with newly-formed TDP. In vivo and in vitro studies suggest that the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats contains no free apoenzyme of transketolase.", "contents": "[Mechanisms of liver transketolase activation in B1-deficient rats after administration of thiamine]. Gel filtration and equilibrium dialysis demonstrated that the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats does not practically bind C-TDP in vitro. An addition of the excess of non-labelled coenzyme does not increase the transketolase activity. The data obtained suggest that transketolase activation in the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats after administration of thiamine in vivo is due to stimulation of the additional synthesis of the enzyme protein rather than to the saturation of the free apoenzyme with newly-formed TDP. In vivo and in vitro studies suggest that the hyaloplasmic fraction of the liver of B1-deficient rats contains no free apoenzyme of transketolase.", "PMID": 454716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11341", "title": "[Effects of organic solvent vapors on the protochlorophyllic complex from etiolated leaves. Conditions for reversible and irreversible destruction].", "content": "The spectral properties and the ability of etyolated leaves pigments treated with organic solvent vapours (OS) for phototransformations were studied by measuring low temperature fluorescence spectra (-196 degrees C). Under the effects of OS the fluorescence at 655 nm was gradually decreased and that at 630--640 nm was increased. The effects of OS depended on the partial pressure of OS. The ability of the pigments for phototransformations was decreased with an increase in fluorescence at 630 nm. The emission maximum of fluorescence of the pigment formed in the light was shifted by 10--18 nm towards the shortwave region. Partial reversibility of the destroying effects of diethyl ester was found. A removal of the ester vapours resulted in a relative increase of fluorescence in the etyolated leaves at 640--645 nm and a decrease of the amount of \"photo-inactive\" pigment. The maximum of fluorescence of the pigment formed in the light was shifted towards the long-wave region (approximately 5 nm) as compared to the leaves irradiated in the presence of the ester. Partial functional reconstitution indicates that at least part of the pigment molecules are able to form a protochlorophyllide (protochlorophyll) -- protein complex, similar to the native one.", "contents": "[Effects of organic solvent vapors on the protochlorophyllic complex from etiolated leaves. Conditions for reversible and irreversible destruction]. The spectral properties and the ability of etyolated leaves pigments treated with organic solvent vapours (OS) for phototransformations were studied by measuring low temperature fluorescence spectra (-196 degrees C). Under the effects of OS the fluorescence at 655 nm was gradually decreased and that at 630--640 nm was increased. The effects of OS depended on the partial pressure of OS. The ability of the pigments for phototransformations was decreased with an increase in fluorescence at 630 nm. The emission maximum of fluorescence of the pigment formed in the light was shifted by 10--18 nm towards the shortwave region. Partial reversibility of the destroying effects of diethyl ester was found. A removal of the ester vapours resulted in a relative increase of fluorescence in the etyolated leaves at 640--645 nm and a decrease of the amount of \"photo-inactive\" pigment. The maximum of fluorescence of the pigment formed in the light was shifted towards the long-wave region (approximately 5 nm) as compared to the leaves irradiated in the presence of the ester. Partial functional reconstitution indicates that at least part of the pigment molecules are able to form a protochlorophyllide (protochlorophyll) -- protein complex, similar to the native one.", "PMID": 454717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11342", "title": "[Activities of dehydrogenases of the pentose phosphate pathway and transketolase in transplanted mouse hepatomas with different growth rates and in organs of tumor carriers].", "content": "The activities of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and transketolase were studied in the cytoplasmic fractions of transplanted mouse hepatomas differing in their growth rates, and in the liver, spleen and cortical layer of kidneys of tumour carriers and normal mice. It was shown that transplantation of hepatomas changes the activity of the pentose phosphate pathway enzymes in tumour carrier tissues unaffected by neoplasm. Deviations from normalcy were mainly similar to those observed in the hepatomas. The changes in the enzymatic activities were especially well-pronounced in the mice having rapidly growing hepatomas. This may be due to a generalized effect of the tumour on the organism, which is concurrent with malignancy.", "contents": "[Activities of dehydrogenases of the pentose phosphate pathway and transketolase in transplanted mouse hepatomas with different growth rates and in organs of tumor carriers]. The activities of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and transketolase were studied in the cytoplasmic fractions of transplanted mouse hepatomas differing in their growth rates, and in the liver, spleen and cortical layer of kidneys of tumour carriers and normal mice. It was shown that transplantation of hepatomas changes the activity of the pentose phosphate pathway enzymes in tumour carrier tissues unaffected by neoplasm. Deviations from normalcy were mainly similar to those observed in the hepatomas. The changes in the enzymatic activities were especially well-pronounced in the mice having rapidly growing hepatomas. This may be due to a generalized effect of the tumour on the organism, which is concurrent with malignancy.", "PMID": 454718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11343", "title": "[Determination of structural differences in DNA by pyrimidine isopliths ratios].", "content": "Using a modified Burton procedure, twelve pyrimidine nucleotide isopliths of DNA from five mammalian species (human, rabbit, guinea pig, rat and cattle) were determined. A method is proposed for mathematical estimation of DNA block analysis data, revealing a correlation between the specific DNA primary structure, the systemic status of the organism under investigation and the organism's radiosensitivity. In some cases DNA structural differences as determined by pyrimidine isoplith ratios help to distinguish between families of the same mammalian order. Quantitative isoplith ratios demonstrate that ionizing radiation treatment brings about certain changes in DNA primary structure. Their direction is quite the opposite to the main trend in the changes of DNA structure in the course of biological evolution.", "contents": "[Determination of structural differences in DNA by pyrimidine isopliths ratios]. Using a modified Burton procedure, twelve pyrimidine nucleotide isopliths of DNA from five mammalian species (human, rabbit, guinea pig, rat and cattle) were determined. A method is proposed for mathematical estimation of DNA block analysis data, revealing a correlation between the specific DNA primary structure, the systemic status of the organism under investigation and the organism's radiosensitivity. In some cases DNA structural differences as determined by pyrimidine isoplith ratios help to distinguish between families of the same mammalian order. Quantitative isoplith ratios demonstrate that ionizing radiation treatment brings about certain changes in DNA primary structure. Their direction is quite the opposite to the main trend in the changes of DNA structure in the course of biological evolution.", "PMID": 454719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11344", "title": "[Effects of alpha-tocopherol derivatives on natural quinone levels in the tissues of vitamin E deficient rats].", "content": "The effects of alpha-tocopherol and its derivatives (alpha-tocopherylquinone, its short-chained analog--alpha-tocopheronolactone--and short-chained alpha-tocopherylacetate) on the levels of ubiquinone, its cyclic isomer--ubichromenol--and vitamin E in the liver and heart of vitamin E-deficient rats were studied. After injection of alpha-tocopherol derivatives the levels of ubichromenol and ubiquinone in rat liver and heart were increased, while their ratio was decreased. alpha-Tocopheronolactone was found to exert the strongest action, which is probably due to its direct effect on ubiquinone metabolism in rat tissues.", "contents": "[Effects of alpha-tocopherol derivatives on natural quinone levels in the tissues of vitamin E deficient rats]. The effects of alpha-tocopherol and its derivatives (alpha-tocopherylquinone, its short-chained analog--alpha-tocopheronolactone--and short-chained alpha-tocopherylacetate) on the levels of ubiquinone, its cyclic isomer--ubichromenol--and vitamin E in the liver and heart of vitamin E-deficient rats were studied. After injection of alpha-tocopherol derivatives the levels of ubichromenol and ubiquinone in rat liver and heart were increased, while their ratio was decreased. alpha-Tocopheronolactone was found to exert the strongest action, which is probably due to its direct effect on ubiquinone metabolism in rat tissues.", "PMID": 454720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11345", "title": "[Lateral heterogeneity of bacterial membranes].", "content": "Isolated membranes of M. lysodeikticus were rapidly frozen and disrupted in a Hughes press. After disruption the fragments were centrifuged at 144000 g for 1 hour and part of the supernatant just above the pellet was subjected to isopycnic centrifugation in a continuous sucrose density gradient. It was found that the material tested was a mixture of fragments differing in their buoyant densities. These fragments also differed in their protein/lipid ratios, cytochrome content and dehydrogenase activities calculated per protein and lipid as well as in proportion of the respiratory chain enzymes. The results obtained are indicative of lateral heterogeneity of the bacterial membrane and the existence of areas in the membrane having high concentration of the respiratory chain enzymes. The latter may suggest that the system of substrate oxidation is segregated in the membrane. It is assumed that there exists in the membrane an exchange of components between different electron-transporting chains operated due to their lateral diffusion.", "contents": "[Lateral heterogeneity of bacterial membranes]. Isolated membranes of M. lysodeikticus were rapidly frozen and disrupted in a Hughes press. After disruption the fragments were centrifuged at 144000 g for 1 hour and part of the supernatant just above the pellet was subjected to isopycnic centrifugation in a continuous sucrose density gradient. It was found that the material tested was a mixture of fragments differing in their buoyant densities. These fragments also differed in their protein/lipid ratios, cytochrome content and dehydrogenase activities calculated per protein and lipid as well as in proportion of the respiratory chain enzymes. The results obtained are indicative of lateral heterogeneity of the bacterial membrane and the existence of areas in the membrane having high concentration of the respiratory chain enzymes. The latter may suggest that the system of substrate oxidation is segregated in the membrane. It is assumed that there exists in the membrane an exchange of components between different electron-transporting chains operated due to their lateral diffusion.", "PMID": 454721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11346", "title": "[Isolation and properties of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from human cultivated cells].", "content": "A new procedure for purification of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase resulting in an electrophoretically homogenous preparation made up of 5.10(8) cells (390 mg of protein) is proposed. The enzyme yield is more than 20%. The molecular weights of a subunit and a native enzyme are 55000 and 220000, respectively. The isoelectric point for the protein lies at 4,8. The kinetics of the enzyme thermal inactivation obey the first order equation with the inactivation rate constant of 6.10(-3) min-1.", "contents": "[Isolation and properties of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from human cultivated cells]. A new procedure for purification of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase resulting in an electrophoretically homogenous preparation made up of 5.10(8) cells (390 mg of protein) is proposed. The enzyme yield is more than 20%. The molecular weights of a subunit and a native enzyme are 55000 and 220000, respectively. The isoelectric point for the protein lies at 4,8. The kinetics of the enzyme thermal inactivation obey the first order equation with the inactivation rate constant of 6.10(-3) min-1.", "PMID": 454722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11347", "title": "Development of a ceramic surface replacement for the hip. An experimental Sialon model.", "content": "The objective of this study was to investigate the design and fixation advantages of Sialon ceramic surface replacements implanted without acrylic bone cement. The biocompatibility and friction and wear properties of Sialon ceramic were compared with more conventional prosthetic materials such as stainless steel and alumina. A functional load-bearing canine hip surface replacement model was established to test Sialon femoral cups designed for fixation by bone ingrowth. The results of the polyethylene wear tests on highly polished ceramic and stainless steel counterfaces were essentially similar. These laboratory data indicated that the in-vivo polyethylene wear performance on metal or ceramic prosthetic surfaces could be expected to be indistinguishable, i.e. the ceramic/polyethylene combination would not offer any improved wear resistance in-vivo. It was found possible to get bone ingrowth into the macrokeying areas of the ceramic femoral cups but not into the microporous surfaces due to the presence of a fibrous membrane lining their internal surfaces. The biocompatability specimens also appeared to be invested with a fibrous membrane. Further studies are under way to determine the relationship between reaming procedures, micro motion at the interfaces and Sialon biocompatibility.", "contents": "Development of a ceramic surface replacement for the hip. An experimental Sialon model. The objective of this study was to investigate the design and fixation advantages of Sialon ceramic surface replacements implanted without acrylic bone cement. The biocompatibility and friction and wear properties of Sialon ceramic were compared with more conventional prosthetic materials such as stainless steel and alumina. A functional load-bearing canine hip surface replacement model was established to test Sialon femoral cups designed for fixation by bone ingrowth. The results of the polyethylene wear tests on highly polished ceramic and stainless steel counterfaces were essentially similar. These laboratory data indicated that the in-vivo polyethylene wear performance on metal or ceramic prosthetic surfaces could be expected to be indistinguishable, i.e. the ceramic/polyethylene combination would not offer any improved wear resistance in-vivo. It was found possible to get bone ingrowth into the macrokeying areas of the ceramic femoral cups but not into the microporous surfaces due to the presence of a fibrous membrane lining their internal surfaces. The biocompatability specimens also appeared to be invested with a fibrous membrane. Further studies are under way to determine the relationship between reaming procedures, micro motion at the interfaces and Sialon biocompatibility.", "PMID": 454775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11348", "title": "Tensile strength of bone (bone/porous polyethylene) interface.", "content": "An average tensile strength of 1.35 kgf/mm2 (1920 psi) was obtained. Comparison of all results with related studies on metallic and ceramic implants indicates the overall superiority of plastics as porous implants for many applications.", "contents": "Tensile strength of bone (bone/porous polyethylene) interface. An average tensile strength of 1.35 kgf/mm2 (1920 psi) was obtained. Comparison of all results with related studies on metallic and ceramic implants indicates the overall superiority of plastics as porous implants for many applications.", "PMID": 454776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11349", "title": "Uniform microporous biomaterials prepared by the Relamineform technique.", "content": "The Replamineform process provides a technique for fabricating microporous ceramic, metal and polymer biomedical implant materials. A range of pore sizes can be made in the same material, thus allowing independent study of the effect of pore size and biomaterial on incorporation of implants. This new family of biomaterials shows promise for helping to determine the optimum characteristics to enhance tissue regeneration.", "contents": "Uniform microporous biomaterials prepared by the Relamineform technique. The Replamineform process provides a technique for fabricating microporous ceramic, metal and polymer biomedical implant materials. A range of pore sizes can be made in the same material, thus allowing independent study of the effect of pore size and biomaterial on incorporation of implants. This new family of biomaterials shows promise for helping to determine the optimum characteristics to enhance tissue regeneration.", "PMID": 454777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11350", "title": "Evaluation of a commercial, porous stainless steel as a prosthetic implant material.", "content": "In the course of evaluating various porous materials as candidates for prosthetic devices, a commercial stainless steel (316L) was found which was designed for porous filtration applications. Small bars (approximately to 3mm x 3mm x 20mm) were implanted in dog extremeties for periods of 10 to 15 weeks. The average tensile strength of the bone/(bone/metal) interface was found to be 0.975 kgf/mm2 (1380 psi) with no indication of variation with time of implantation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with X-ray energy dispersive (XRED) analysis indicates production of calcified bone in the bone/metal composite. Inherent strength and porosity characteristic combined with biocompatbility indicate that this commercially available meterial is a viable implant candidate for attachment to the skeletal system.", "contents": "Evaluation of a commercial, porous stainless steel as a prosthetic implant material. In the course of evaluating various porous materials as candidates for prosthetic devices, a commercial stainless steel (316L) was found which was designed for porous filtration applications. Small bars (approximately to 3mm x 3mm x 20mm) were implanted in dog extremeties for periods of 10 to 15 weeks. The average tensile strength of the bone/(bone/metal) interface was found to be 0.975 kgf/mm2 (1380 psi) with no indication of variation with time of implantation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with X-ray energy dispersive (XRED) analysis indicates production of calcified bone in the bone/metal composite. Inherent strength and porosity characteristic combined with biocompatbility indicate that this commercially available meterial is a viable implant candidate for attachment to the skeletal system.", "PMID": 454778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11351", "title": "Fatigue - corrosion of endoprosthesis titanium alloys.", "content": "Commercial total hip prostheses often show certain metallurgical faults (porosities, coarse grains, growth dendrites, carbide networks). In order to investigate more accurately the role played by these different parameters in prostheses failure we performed a large number of systematic corrosion, fatigue and fatigue - corrosion tests on these materials and on commercial total hip prostheses. Ultimate strengthes seem to be reached for cast cobalt alloys, whereas titanium alloys, such as Ta 6 V, present very high fatigue limit under corrosion. Thus, rotative bending fatigue - corrosion tests in biological environment provide values about 50 DaN/mm2. This value, is nevertheless appreciably higher than those obtained with stellites and stainless steel. Titanium alloys, because of their mechanical performances, their weak Young's modulus (11000 DaN/mm2) and their relative lightness (4.5. g/cm3), which are associated with a good biocompatibility, seem very promising for permanent implants realisation.", "contents": "Fatigue - corrosion of endoprosthesis titanium alloys. Commercial total hip prostheses often show certain metallurgical faults (porosities, coarse grains, growth dendrites, carbide networks). In order to investigate more accurately the role played by these different parameters in prostheses failure we performed a large number of systematic corrosion, fatigue and fatigue - corrosion tests on these materials and on commercial total hip prostheses. Ultimate strengthes seem to be reached for cast cobalt alloys, whereas titanium alloys, such as Ta 6 V, present very high fatigue limit under corrosion. Thus, rotative bending fatigue - corrosion tests in biological environment provide values about 50 DaN/mm2. This value, is nevertheless appreciably higher than those obtained with stellites and stainless steel. Titanium alloys, because of their mechanical performances, their weak Young's modulus (11000 DaN/mm2) and their relative lightness (4.5. g/cm3), which are associated with a good biocompatibility, seem very promising for permanent implants realisation.", "PMID": 454780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11352", "title": "Interpenetrating polymer networks for biological applications.", "content": "The use of a sequential polymerization method for preparing interpenetrating polymer networks with biocomatible surfaces has been studied. A hydrogel monomer was made to undergo polymerization with simultaneous cross-link formation, in the presence of a swollen thermoplastic elastomer heterophase block copolymer. On removal of the swelling solvent, an interpenetrating network of the hydrogel and the thermoplastic elastomer was obtained, which absorbed water in the manner of a hydrogel, but had mechanical properties superior to hydrogels. The studies employed a poly(ether-urethane) block copolymer as the thermoplastic elastomer. The materials fabricated included samples in which the interpenetrating polymerization extended throughout the termoplastic elastomer as well as samples in which the interpenetrating polymerization was confined to a region near the surface of the latter.", "contents": "Interpenetrating polymer networks for biological applications. The use of a sequential polymerization method for preparing interpenetrating polymer networks with biocomatible surfaces has been studied. A hydrogel monomer was made to undergo polymerization with simultaneous cross-link formation, in the presence of a swollen thermoplastic elastomer heterophase block copolymer. On removal of the swelling solvent, an interpenetrating network of the hydrogel and the thermoplastic elastomer was obtained, which absorbed water in the manner of a hydrogel, but had mechanical properties superior to hydrogels. The studies employed a poly(ether-urethane) block copolymer as the thermoplastic elastomer. The materials fabricated included samples in which the interpenetrating polymerization extended throughout the termoplastic elastomer as well as samples in which the interpenetrating polymerization was confined to a region near the surface of the latter.", "PMID": 454781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11353", "title": "Pre-coated orthopedic implants with bone cement.", "content": "A study on the feasibility of implants pre-coated with an acrylic bone cement has been performed. Four types of implants, an actual canine femoral prosthesis, a polished steel rod (0.49 cm dia. x 13 cm long) with and without pre-coating, and a sandblasted steel rod with pre-coating were implanted into canine femurs in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the interfacial shear strengths in addition to the bench test. After serial sectioning the samples in discs, push-out tests were made to evaluate the interfacial strengths of cement-bone-implant. The weakest interfacial shear strength was exhibited by the polished rod/cement interface (0.5 MPa) while the strongest was the \"old\" and \"new\" cement interface (23.4 MPa). The bone/cement interfacial strength was in between for in vitro (1.17 MPa) and in vivo (1.68 MPa). The shear strength of rod/cement interface increased substantially by sandblasting (6.84 MPa). The microscopic observation of the interface showed somewhat smaller gaps developed for the pre-coated rod than the uncoated rod due to the shrinkage effect. In addition to the overall increase in interfacial strength, the pre-coating may furthermore reduce the setting temperature, the shrinkage, and the amount of monomer released during operation due to the reduced amount of cement at the time of implantation. The more gradual transmission of load from implant to bone and \"auto-centering\" of implants during operation by pre-coating, are believed to be advantageous over conventional cement fixation method.", "contents": "Pre-coated orthopedic implants with bone cement. A study on the feasibility of implants pre-coated with an acrylic bone cement has been performed. Four types of implants, an actual canine femoral prosthesis, a polished steel rod (0.49 cm dia. x 13 cm long) with and without pre-coating, and a sandblasted steel rod with pre-coating were implanted into canine femurs in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the interfacial shear strengths in addition to the bench test. After serial sectioning the samples in discs, push-out tests were made to evaluate the interfacial strengths of cement-bone-implant. The weakest interfacial shear strength was exhibited by the polished rod/cement interface (0.5 MPa) while the strongest was the \"old\" and \"new\" cement interface (23.4 MPa). The bone/cement interfacial strength was in between for in vitro (1.17 MPa) and in vivo (1.68 MPa). The shear strength of rod/cement interface increased substantially by sandblasting (6.84 MPa). The microscopic observation of the interface showed somewhat smaller gaps developed for the pre-coated rod than the uncoated rod due to the shrinkage effect. In addition to the overall increase in interfacial strength, the pre-coating may furthermore reduce the setting temperature, the shrinkage, and the amount of monomer released during operation due to the reduced amount of cement at the time of implantation. The more gradual transmission of load from implant to bone and \"auto-centering\" of implants during operation by pre-coating, are believed to be advantageous over conventional cement fixation method.", "PMID": 454782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11354", "title": "Bone bonding through bioadhesives: present status.", "content": "Until recently use of adhesives was confined to cases in which glued areas could be pre-treated or at least cleaned. Thus, grease or oil contaminated surfaces could not be joined together by glueing. More recently, some adhesives have been developed which allow previous treatment of greasy surfaces to be avoided. Among these we find epoxy resins, acrylics and polyurethances. These adhesives have been used until now in various industries. We have begun a research program with these products and in aiming to design an adhesive which would enable immediate and strong bone bonding and avoid problems of metallic fixation, this study is a continuation of our previous research. Thus we tested - currently available surgical and dental adhesives - original mixtures developed in our laboratory. Mechanical assays were performed on bone samples from human femurs in different conditions : dried, cleaned, fresh, or after immersion in physiological solution. They consist essentially of tensile tests on Lhomargy and Zwick's machine wherein the stress is directed perpendicular to the interface. Variations of tensile strength (in h bar) are related to hardening time and to mixture composition. The specimens are joined together either in monolayers or in multilayers. The use of adequate catalysts ensures setting at room temperature. Torsion tests and fatigue tests are carried out concomitantly. Standardized bevel fermoral osteotomies were performed on mice with a dental saw after I.P. Nembutal anesthesia in order to test biological tolerance : - for the control group we study the evolution of bone repair after circumferential wiring - for the animals under test, bones are glued together with one of the proposed adhesives. Radiological and histological studies (using classical Azantrichrome staining after demineralization) are carried out at regular time intervals. In the control animals particular attention is paid to the time course of the formation, constitution and evolution of callus. In the test animals, we can observe callus formation, bone growth into the adhesive material and glue resorption, and look for specific antigenic phenomena. Despite expected improvements, bone glueing remains a challenge and only restricted clinical applications can be proposed.", "contents": "Bone bonding through bioadhesives: present status. Until recently use of adhesives was confined to cases in which glued areas could be pre-treated or at least cleaned. Thus, grease or oil contaminated surfaces could not be joined together by glueing. More recently, some adhesives have been developed which allow previous treatment of greasy surfaces to be avoided. Among these we find epoxy resins, acrylics and polyurethances. These adhesives have been used until now in various industries. We have begun a research program with these products and in aiming to design an adhesive which would enable immediate and strong bone bonding and avoid problems of metallic fixation, this study is a continuation of our previous research. Thus we tested - currently available surgical and dental adhesives - original mixtures developed in our laboratory. Mechanical assays were performed on bone samples from human femurs in different conditions : dried, cleaned, fresh, or after immersion in physiological solution. They consist essentially of tensile tests on Lhomargy and Zwick's machine wherein the stress is directed perpendicular to the interface. Variations of tensile strength (in h bar) are related to hardening time and to mixture composition. The specimens are joined together either in monolayers or in multilayers. The use of adequate catalysts ensures setting at room temperature. Torsion tests and fatigue tests are carried out concomitantly. Standardized bevel fermoral osteotomies were performed on mice with a dental saw after I.P. Nembutal anesthesia in order to test biological tolerance : - for the control group we study the evolution of bone repair after circumferential wiring - for the animals under test, bones are glued together with one of the proposed adhesives. Radiological and histological studies (using classical Azantrichrome staining after demineralization) are carried out at regular time intervals. In the control animals particular attention is paid to the time course of the formation, constitution and evolution of callus. In the test animals, we can observe callus formation, bone growth into the adhesive material and glue resorption, and look for specific antigenic phenomena. Despite expected improvements, bone glueing remains a challenge and only restricted clinical applications can be proposed.", "PMID": 454783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11355", "title": "High strength Co-Cr-Mo alloy by hot isostatic pressing of powder.", "content": "Currently available cobalt alloy prostheses for total hip applications are fabricated by investment casting techniques. Instances of stem fracture have been reported due to metal fatigue secondary to stem loosening or cement breakdown. A new process has been developed which includes the preparation of ultraclean powder and subsequent consolidation of the powder by hot isostatic pressing. The resultant solid material is characterized by 100 percent density and ultrafine grain size. Prostheses prepared by the new process have the same biocompatibility and corrsion resistance as the conventional cast alloy but higher strength and fatgue resistance.", "contents": "High strength Co-Cr-Mo alloy by hot isostatic pressing of powder. Currently available cobalt alloy prostheses for total hip applications are fabricated by investment casting techniques. Instances of stem fracture have been reported due to metal fatigue secondary to stem loosening or cement breakdown. A new process has been developed which includes the preparation of ultraclean powder and subsequent consolidation of the powder by hot isostatic pressing. The resultant solid material is characterized by 100 percent density and ultrafine grain size. Prostheses prepared by the new process have the same biocompatibility and corrsion resistance as the conventional cast alloy but higher strength and fatgue resistance.", "PMID": 454784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11356", "title": "Engineering criteria for biomaterials: some thought on in situ measurements.", "content": "Several non-destructive techniques now exist which show promise of providing information about implant performance in situ. Surface wave ultrasonics have been used successfully in the laboratory to measure the anisotropic properties of bone. It has also been used clinically to assess rates of fracture healing. Acoustic emission has been used experimentally to investigate bone abnormalities such as microfracture and osteoporosis in vitro. Application of these techniques to clinical studies depends upon the establishment of the appropriate parameters for bone and the various biomaterials used as implants. Surface wave ultrasound may also provide information about tissue ingrowth into porous systems. Acoustic emission can be especially significant in the early detection of implant failure.", "contents": "Engineering criteria for biomaterials: some thought on in situ measurements. Several non-destructive techniques now exist which show promise of providing information about implant performance in situ. Surface wave ultrasonics have been used successfully in the laboratory to measure the anisotropic properties of bone. It has also been used clinically to assess rates of fracture healing. Acoustic emission has been used experimentally to investigate bone abnormalities such as microfracture and osteoporosis in vitro. Application of these techniques to clinical studies depends upon the establishment of the appropriate parameters for bone and the various biomaterials used as implants. Surface wave ultrasound may also provide information about tissue ingrowth into porous systems. Acoustic emission can be especially significant in the early detection of implant failure.", "PMID": 454785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11357", "title": "Water orientation and motion in phospholipid bilayers: a comparison between 17O- and 2H-NMR.", "content": "17O- and 2H-NMR spectra were obtained of a lamellar phase of dipalmitoyl-3sn-phosphatidylcholine (DPL) and D2 17O with water content of 3--15 moles water/mole DPL, in the temperature range 20 to 80 degrees C. In every case, the quadrupole splittings observed for 17O were 6.6 times larger than those for 2H. Therefore the two methods contain in principle the same information, but with less details from 17O. On the other hand, dynamic information is easily obtained from 17O linewidth data and complements the deuterium results.", "contents": "Water orientation and motion in phospholipid bilayers: a comparison between 17O- and 2H-NMR. 17O- and 2H-NMR spectra were obtained of a lamellar phase of dipalmitoyl-3sn-phosphatidylcholine (DPL) and D2 17O with water content of 3--15 moles water/mole DPL, in the temperature range 20 to 80 degrees C. In every case, the quadrupole splittings observed for 17O were 6.6 times larger than those for 2H. Therefore the two methods contain in principle the same information, but with less details from 17O. On the other hand, dynamic information is easily obtained from 17O linewidth data and complements the deuterium results.", "PMID": 454799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11358", "title": "Rates of deactivation processes of indole derivatives in water-organic solvent mixtures--application to tryptophyl fluorescence of proteins.", "content": "The fluorescence quantum yield and the fluorescence decay of indole, 3-methylindole, 1-methylindole and N-acetyltryptophanamide have been measured in different water-dioxane mixtures. For the first three derivatives, the fluorescence decays were found independent of the emission wavelength and were analyzed as single exponential functions. In the case of N-methylindole the rate of the non radiative deactivation processes knr increased linearly with the molar fraction of dioxane whereas for indole and scatole the variation of knr was biphasic. This behaviour can be explained by two excited state deactivations of these non N-methylated compounds in water and high water content mixtures; one of these deactivation processes occuring through an hydrogen bond between the N-H group and a water molecule. The rate of non radiative deactivation of N-acetyltryptophanamide was dominated by the internal quenching involving the intramolecular carbonyl. The rate of the radiative deactivation process kF of these four compounds increased linearly with the wavenumber of the fluorescence spectrum maximum. Data relative to the three non N-methylated derivatives fell practically on the same straight line. Data from other works have been gathered in order to check if a similar relation between the intrinsic kF and vF values can exist for the tryptophyl fluorescence emission of proteins.", "contents": "Rates of deactivation processes of indole derivatives in water-organic solvent mixtures--application to tryptophyl fluorescence of proteins. The fluorescence quantum yield and the fluorescence decay of indole, 3-methylindole, 1-methylindole and N-acetyltryptophanamide have been measured in different water-dioxane mixtures. For the first three derivatives, the fluorescence decays were found independent of the emission wavelength and were analyzed as single exponential functions. In the case of N-methylindole the rate of the non radiative deactivation processes knr increased linearly with the molar fraction of dioxane whereas for indole and scatole the variation of knr was biphasic. This behaviour can be explained by two excited state deactivations of these non N-methylated compounds in water and high water content mixtures; one of these deactivation processes occuring through an hydrogen bond between the N-H group and a water molecule. The rate of non radiative deactivation of N-acetyltryptophanamide was dominated by the internal quenching involving the intramolecular carbonyl. The rate of the radiative deactivation process kF of these four compounds increased linearly with the wavenumber of the fluorescence spectrum maximum. Data relative to the three non N-methylated derivatives fell practically on the same straight line. Data from other works have been gathered in order to check if a similar relation between the intrinsic kF and vF values can exist for the tryptophyl fluorescence emission of proteins.", "PMID": 454800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11359", "title": "Thermodynamic analysis of carbon monoxide binding by hemoglobin trout I.", "content": "Calorimetric measurements at 25 degrees of the differential heat of CO binding by hemoglobin trout I have been examined together with the CO binding isotherms for the protein at 4 degrees and 20 degrees. Simultaneous treatment of these data sets by a statistically rigorous technique permits evaluation of all the thermodynamic parameters for both the Adair and the Monod, Wyman, Changeux (MWC) models. The results show the details of the unusual temperature dependent cooperativity which this hemoglobin exhibits. In the Adair formalism the increasingly favorable free energy change for successive steps of ligand binding are nearly linearly paralleled by increasingly negative enthalpy changes for these steps. This causes the enhanced cooperativity observed as the temperature is decreased. For the MWC case, lowering the temperature increases the stability of the unligated T state relative to the unligated R state since the enthalpy of the T leads to R transition is 29.4 kcal mol-1. Simultaneously, the favorability of ligating R forms relative to T is enhanced since R form ligation is 14.1 kcal (mol CO)-1 more exothermic than that of T. The balance between these opposing effects is to increase ligand binding cooperativity at low temperatures. The predicted temperature dependence of the Hill coefficient for the MWC and Adair models is identical at low and intermediate temperatures, but, interestingly, would show a strong divergence at high temperatures where negative cooperativity is suggested for the Adair case and positive cooperativity for the MWC case.", "contents": "Thermodynamic analysis of carbon monoxide binding by hemoglobin trout I. Calorimetric measurements at 25 degrees of the differential heat of CO binding by hemoglobin trout I have been examined together with the CO binding isotherms for the protein at 4 degrees and 20 degrees. Simultaneous treatment of these data sets by a statistically rigorous technique permits evaluation of all the thermodynamic parameters for both the Adair and the Monod, Wyman, Changeux (MWC) models. The results show the details of the unusual temperature dependent cooperativity which this hemoglobin exhibits. In the Adair formalism the increasingly favorable free energy change for successive steps of ligand binding are nearly linearly paralleled by increasingly negative enthalpy changes for these steps. This causes the enhanced cooperativity observed as the temperature is decreased. For the MWC case, lowering the temperature increases the stability of the unligated T state relative to the unligated R state since the enthalpy of the T leads to R transition is 29.4 kcal mol-1. Simultaneously, the favorability of ligating R forms relative to T is enhanced since R form ligation is 14.1 kcal (mol CO)-1 more exothermic than that of T. The balance between these opposing effects is to increase ligand binding cooperativity at low temperatures. The predicted temperature dependence of the Hill coefficient for the MWC and Adair models is identical at low and intermediate temperatures, but, interestingly, would show a strong divergence at high temperatures where negative cooperativity is suggested for the Adair case and positive cooperativity for the MWC case.", "PMID": 454801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11360", "title": "A model for the behaviour of phosphorylase b. The generation of different binding sites via intermediate enzymatic states.", "content": "The model given in this paper can be applied to enzymatic systems which have more than two conformational states in equilibrium and which clearly exhibit heterogeneity in the binding of one ligand. The model we propose makes possible quantitative interpretation of our experimental results and of those of many other workers as well. In some cases calorimetric, dialysis and kinetic magnitudes, when plotted against ligand concentration, give multiregional or \"stepwise\" curves. We suggest that such a behaviour arises because total occupation of one class of binding sites completely moves the enzyme towards a different conformational state in which the affinity for the ligand is greatly increased by the formation of a new class of binding sites. Our calorimetric results for the interaction between some nucleotides and phosphorylase b closely conform to our model.", "contents": "A model for the behaviour of phosphorylase b. The generation of different binding sites via intermediate enzymatic states. The model given in this paper can be applied to enzymatic systems which have more than two conformational states in equilibrium and which clearly exhibit heterogeneity in the binding of one ligand. The model we propose makes possible quantitative interpretation of our experimental results and of those of many other workers as well. In some cases calorimetric, dialysis and kinetic magnitudes, when plotted against ligand concentration, give multiregional or \"stepwise\" curves. We suggest that such a behaviour arises because total occupation of one class of binding sites completely moves the enzyme towards a different conformational state in which the affinity for the ligand is greatly increased by the formation of a new class of binding sites. Our calorimetric results for the interaction between some nucleotides and phosphorylase b closely conform to our model.", "PMID": 454802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11361", "title": "Thermodynamics of nucleotides binding to phosphorylase b.", "content": "The effects of several chemical modifications in the AMP molecule on its interaction with phosphorylase b are examined by microcalorimetry, equilibrium dialysis, light scattering and ultracentrifuge experiments. In this work we report the results obtained for eight AMP analogues corresponding to different substituents in the puric base or in the ribose, or to different positions of the phosphate. The thermodynamic properties of the interaction between the phosphorylase b and the above mentioned nucleotides are also reported. The following conclusions were obtained: a) Except for IMP and 2'dIMP all the nucleotides studied clearly show two types of binding sites in the enzyme. b) The interaction of the nucleotide with its weaker affinity binding site is highly dependent upon chemical alterations in the puric base. c) Both the amino group in C(6) and the N(1) of the adenine in the AMP seem to play an important role in the conformational transitions induced by the nucleotide on the enzyme. d) The tetramerization of phosphorylase b in the presence of 10(-2) M AMP and in the conditions of the ultracentrifuge experiments is drastically affected by modifications in the ribose-phosphate part of the AMP molecule.", "contents": "Thermodynamics of nucleotides binding to phosphorylase b. The effects of several chemical modifications in the AMP molecule on its interaction with phosphorylase b are examined by microcalorimetry, equilibrium dialysis, light scattering and ultracentrifuge experiments. In this work we report the results obtained for eight AMP analogues corresponding to different substituents in the puric base or in the ribose, or to different positions of the phosphate. The thermodynamic properties of the interaction between the phosphorylase b and the above mentioned nucleotides are also reported. The following conclusions were obtained: a) Except for IMP and 2'dIMP all the nucleotides studied clearly show two types of binding sites in the enzyme. b) The interaction of the nucleotide with its weaker affinity binding site is highly dependent upon chemical alterations in the puric base. c) Both the amino group in C(6) and the N(1) of the adenine in the AMP seem to play an important role in the conformational transitions induced by the nucleotide on the enzyme. d) The tetramerization of phosphorylase b in the presence of 10(-2) M AMP and in the conditions of the ultracentrifuge experiments is drastically affected by modifications in the ribose-phosphate part of the AMP molecule.", "PMID": 454803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11362", "title": "On the role of the active site helix in papain, an ab initio molecular orbital study.", "content": "On the system methanethiol/imidazole/formaldehyde (modelling the active site of papain) we performed ab initio self-consistent-field molecular orbital calculations using a rather large basis of Gaussian-type functions. A point charge representation of the long central alpha-helix present in the enzyme, was added in order to establish the influence of the electric field of the helix (which amounts to 10(9) V m-1 in the active site region) on the equilibrium: RSH...Im in equilibrium RS-...ImH+, which is an essential step in a recently proposed mechanism for the catalytic action of papain. Our results show that the helix stabilizes the ion-pair by 15 kcal mole-1 more than the neutral form making the two configurations energetically equivalent and lowers the energy barrier in the reaction path by 8 kcal mole-1, thus shifting the equilibrium considerably towards the ionic situation and increasing the rate of proton transfer by several orders of magnitude. We conclude that \"active site\" helices, present in many enzymes, play a pertinent role in enzyme catalysis.", "contents": "On the role of the active site helix in papain, an ab initio molecular orbital study. On the system methanethiol/imidazole/formaldehyde (modelling the active site of papain) we performed ab initio self-consistent-field molecular orbital calculations using a rather large basis of Gaussian-type functions. A point charge representation of the long central alpha-helix present in the enzyme, was added in order to establish the influence of the electric field of the helix (which amounts to 10(9) V m-1 in the active site region) on the equilibrium: RSH...Im in equilibrium RS-...ImH+, which is an essential step in a recently proposed mechanism for the catalytic action of papain. Our results show that the helix stabilizes the ion-pair by 15 kcal mole-1 more than the neutral form making the two configurations energetically equivalent and lowers the energy barrier in the reaction path by 8 kcal mole-1, thus shifting the equilibrium considerably towards the ionic situation and increasing the rate of proton transfer by several orders of magnitude. We conclude that \"active site\" helices, present in many enzymes, play a pertinent role in enzyme catalysis.", "PMID": 454804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11363", "title": "Dextran biosynthesis and dextransucrase production by continuous culture of Leuconostoc mesenteroides.", "content": "Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-512(F) was grown in continuous culture under conditions of energy-limited growth. The extracellular enzyme dextransucrase (sucrose: 1,6-alpha-D-glucan 6-alpha-glucosyltransferase EC 2.4.1.5), was not detected in glucose- or maltose-limited cultures. Under conditions of sucrose-limited growth, the enzyme activity of the cell-free culture supernatant increased with increasing dilution rate only after the critical concentration of enzyme inducer (sucrose) in the chemostat had been achieved. The appearance of fructose in the effluent of the sucrose-limited chemostat at higher dilution rates indicated that sucrose was being diverted to dextran biosynthesis. The competition between bacteria and extracellular enzyme for the common substrate sucrose represents an inefficiency in the system of enzyme production. Dextransucrase was isolated from the cell-free culture supernatant by ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE-cellulose chromatography. The enzyme preparation exhibited both dextran biosynthetic activity and an invertase-like activity. The biosynthetic efficiency was increased by decreasing the temperature from 30 to 10 degrees C. The enzyme was irreversibly denatured by prolonged incubation in the absence of Ca2+.", "contents": "Dextran biosynthesis and dextransucrase production by continuous culture of Leuconostoc mesenteroides. Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-512(F) was grown in continuous culture under conditions of energy-limited growth. The extracellular enzyme dextransucrase (sucrose: 1,6-alpha-D-glucan 6-alpha-glucosyltransferase EC 2.4.1.5), was not detected in glucose- or maltose-limited cultures. Under conditions of sucrose-limited growth, the enzyme activity of the cell-free culture supernatant increased with increasing dilution rate only after the critical concentration of enzyme inducer (sucrose) in the chemostat had been achieved. The appearance of fructose in the effluent of the sucrose-limited chemostat at higher dilution rates indicated that sucrose was being diverted to dextran biosynthesis. The competition between bacteria and extracellular enzyme for the common substrate sucrose represents an inefficiency in the system of enzyme production. Dextransucrase was isolated from the cell-free culture supernatant by ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE-cellulose chromatography. The enzyme preparation exhibited both dextran biosynthetic activity and an invertase-like activity. The biosynthetic efficiency was increased by decreasing the temperature from 30 to 10 degrees C. The enzyme was irreversibly denatured by prolonged incubation in the absence of Ca2+.", "PMID": 454805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11364", "title": "Lipase synthesis in hydrocarbon fermentation.", "content": "A study was undertaken to establish conditions and relationships for the production of lipases during hydrocarbon fermentation. A culture of Candida lipolytica was isolated by a kerosene enrichment technique from oil-soaked soil and this microbe was used to study the production of lipase on a kerosene-mineral salts medium. The optimum pH, medium, and temperature for lipase synthesis were established and the properties of the isolated enzyme in terms of its activity and lipid specificity were studied.", "contents": "Lipase synthesis in hydrocarbon fermentation. A study was undertaken to establish conditions and relationships for the production of lipases during hydrocarbon fermentation. A culture of Candida lipolytica was isolated by a kerosene enrichment technique from oil-soaked soil and this microbe was used to study the production of lipase on a kerosene-mineral salts medium. The optimum pH, medium, and temperature for lipase synthesis were established and the properties of the isolated enzyme in terms of its activity and lipid specificity were studied.", "PMID": 454806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11365", "title": "Proteolytic denaturation and methods of improving the stability of glucose isomerase preparations.", "content": "Evidence is provided in support of proteolytic denaturation of free and immobilized preparations of glucose isomerase from a Bacillus species. A number of methods to improve the stability with respect to proteolysis have been tested and their advantages as well as shortcomings are discussed. These methods include hollow-fiber treatment, gel permeation, thermal treatment, and addition of protease inhibitors. The half-life of the free and the cellulose acetate fiber-entrapped preparations of glucose isomerase can be significantly improved. For example, the hollow-fiber treatment can improve the half-life by an order of magnitude.", "contents": "Proteolytic denaturation and methods of improving the stability of glucose isomerase preparations. Evidence is provided in support of proteolytic denaturation of free and immobilized preparations of glucose isomerase from a Bacillus species. A number of methods to improve the stability with respect to proteolysis have been tested and their advantages as well as shortcomings are discussed. These methods include hollow-fiber treatment, gel permeation, thermal treatment, and addition of protease inhibitors. The half-life of the free and the cellulose acetate fiber-entrapped preparations of glucose isomerase can be significantly improved. For example, the hollow-fiber treatment can improve the half-life by an order of magnitude.", "PMID": 454807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11366", "title": "Theoretical and experimental analysis of a soluble enzyme membrane reactor.", "content": "Recently enzyme immobilization techniques have been proposed that are mainly founded on the formation of an enzyme-gel layer onto the active surface of an ultrafiltration membrane within an unstirred ultrafiltration cell. If the membrane molecular-weight cutoff is less than the enzyme molecular weight and hence such as to completely prevent enzyme permeation (once the enzyme solution has been charged into the test cell and pressure applied to the system), a time progressive increase in enzyme concentration takes place at the upstream membrane surface that can eventually lead to gelation and hence to enzyme immobilization. However, depending on the total enzyme amount fed, the maximum enzyme concentration achieved in the unsteady state could be less than the gelation level. In this situation, no immobilization occurs and the enzyme still remains in the soluble form although it is practically confined within a limited region immediately upstream the membrane and at fairly high concentrations. In this paper, the experimental conditions that allow gelling to occur are discussed together with a theoretical analysis of the soluble enzyme membrane reactor which is obtained when no gelling takes place. Such a system could be usefully employed in performing kinetic analyses at high enzyme concentration levels that are still in the soluble form.", "contents": "Theoretical and experimental analysis of a soluble enzyme membrane reactor. Recently enzyme immobilization techniques have been proposed that are mainly founded on the formation of an enzyme-gel layer onto the active surface of an ultrafiltration membrane within an unstirred ultrafiltration cell. If the membrane molecular-weight cutoff is less than the enzyme molecular weight and hence such as to completely prevent enzyme permeation (once the enzyme solution has been charged into the test cell and pressure applied to the system), a time progressive increase in enzyme concentration takes place at the upstream membrane surface that can eventually lead to gelation and hence to enzyme immobilization. However, depending on the total enzyme amount fed, the maximum enzyme concentration achieved in the unsteady state could be less than the gelation level. In this situation, no immobilization occurs and the enzyme still remains in the soluble form although it is practically confined within a limited region immediately upstream the membrane and at fairly high concentrations. In this paper, the experimental conditions that allow gelling to occur are discussed together with a theoretical analysis of the soluble enzyme membrane reactor which is obtained when no gelling takes place. Such a system could be usefully employed in performing kinetic analyses at high enzyme concentration levels that are still in the soluble form.", "PMID": 454808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11367", "title": "New method of determining kinetic constants for immobilized enzymes in a packet-bed reactor system.", "content": "A new graphical method of determining the kinetic constants for immobilized-enzyme systems is proposed and illustrated with some examples. The advantages of using this method are that these kinetic constants can be determined accurately and conveniently from the conversion data of a packed-column enzyme-reactor system.", "contents": "New method of determining kinetic constants for immobilized enzymes in a packet-bed reactor system. A new graphical method of determining the kinetic constants for immobilized-enzyme systems is proposed and illustrated with some examples. The advantages of using this method are that these kinetic constants can be determined accurately and conveniently from the conversion data of a packed-column enzyme-reactor system.", "PMID": 454809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11368", "title": "[Creation of steady alterations of motor activity in chick embryos under conditions of controlled experiments].", "content": "Steady alterations of motor activity in chick embryos were demonstrated under conditions of a controlled experiment, in production regimens of various directions. During controlled support by electrocutaneous stimulation of threshold amplitudes of the movements, the following characteristic time periods were distinguished: transitional, of steady alterations of motor activity with minimization of the amount of electrostimuli, and of the period of aftereffect. The conclusion is drawn about the united adaptive effect (minimization of biologically adverse influences) provided by the biorhythm of motor activity with directional potentiation of the activity of the components, which are not supported by adverse effects.", "contents": "[Creation of steady alterations of motor activity in chick embryos under conditions of controlled experiments]. Steady alterations of motor activity in chick embryos were demonstrated under conditions of a controlled experiment, in production regimens of various directions. During controlled support by electrocutaneous stimulation of threshold amplitudes of the movements, the following characteristic time periods were distinguished: transitional, of steady alterations of motor activity with minimization of the amount of electrostimuli, and of the period of aftereffect. The conclusion is drawn about the united adaptive effect (minimization of biologically adverse influences) provided by the biorhythm of motor activity with directional potentiation of the activity of the components, which are not supported by adverse effects.", "PMID": 454810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11369", "title": "[Relationship between hypercapnic and hypoxic stimuli of respiration during muscular activity].", "content": "Pulmonary ventilation (V) and alveolar gas composition (PACO2, PAO2) were studied in 12 healthy men who performed gradual muscular work under conditions of controlled hypercapnia, hypoxia, hyperoxia or their combinations. The respiratory response was estimated by absolute values of ventilation at the given PACO2 value and by its rise by 1 mm Hg of increased PACO2 (delta V/delta PACO2) under rest and under transitional and steady-state exercise. The exercise on-switch was accompanied by displacement to the top and an increased slope of the response curve (delta V/delta PACO2) not related to the work load. These changes suggest multiplicative interaction of the neurogenic and hypercapnic drives in the load switch-on. During steady-state exercise an important role of the hypoxic drive was revealed: hypoxemia induced a shift of the delta V/delta PACO2 response curve to a higher level, especially with the great work load. Thus the positive interaction between the hypercapnic and hypoxic respiratory drive augments with muscular exercise.", "contents": "[Relationship between hypercapnic and hypoxic stimuli of respiration during muscular activity]. Pulmonary ventilation (V) and alveolar gas composition (PACO2, PAO2) were studied in 12 healthy men who performed gradual muscular work under conditions of controlled hypercapnia, hypoxia, hyperoxia or their combinations. The respiratory response was estimated by absolute values of ventilation at the given PACO2 value and by its rise by 1 mm Hg of increased PACO2 (delta V/delta PACO2) under rest and under transitional and steady-state exercise. The exercise on-switch was accompanied by displacement to the top and an increased slope of the response curve (delta V/delta PACO2) not related to the work load. These changes suggest multiplicative interaction of the neurogenic and hypercapnic drives in the load switch-on. During steady-state exercise an important role of the hypoxic drive was revealed: hypoxemia induced a shift of the delta V/delta PACO2 response curve to a higher level, especially with the great work load. Thus the positive interaction between the hypercapnic and hypoxic respiratory drive augments with muscular exercise.", "PMID": 454811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11370", "title": "[Role of increased peripheral vascular resistance in burn shock].", "content": "The effect of lethal burn injury on the parameters of hemodynamics and respiration was investigated in intact rabbits and those with disconnected aortal and sinocarotid reflexogenic zones. The rabbits of both groups demonstrated similar changes in cardiac output and total oxygen consumption. Unlike intact animals, the burn in rabbits with disconnected reflexogenic zones did not lead to a marked increase in the peripheral vascular resistance. Accordingly, the systemic arterial blood pressure in them fell to a considerably greater extent than that in the intact animals. The life span of the rabbits exposed to burns was less as compared to the intact ones. A reflex compensatory nature of the increased peripheral vascular resistance in burn shock is suggested.", "contents": "[Role of increased peripheral vascular resistance in burn shock]. The effect of lethal burn injury on the parameters of hemodynamics and respiration was investigated in intact rabbits and those with disconnected aortal and sinocarotid reflexogenic zones. The rabbits of both groups demonstrated similar changes in cardiac output and total oxygen consumption. Unlike intact animals, the burn in rabbits with disconnected reflexogenic zones did not lead to a marked increase in the peripheral vascular resistance. Accordingly, the systemic arterial blood pressure in them fell to a considerably greater extent than that in the intact animals. The life span of the rabbits exposed to burns was less as compared to the intact ones. A reflex compensatory nature of the increased peripheral vascular resistance in burn shock is suggested.", "PMID": 454812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11371", "title": "[Change in the contractile activity of the rabbit myocardium as a result of burn shock of different duration].", "content": "Experiments were carried out on the papillary muscles prepared from the rabbit heart 10, 60 or 180 minutes after exposure of the animals to thermal burn. Isometric tension in the changing stimulation frequency of the preparation (the range being 0.1-2.0 Hz) and in post-stimulating potentiation was recorded. It was shown that the disturbance degree of the myocardial contractile activity caused by the burn rose depending on increased shock duration. It was evidenced by the following findings: in all the papillary muscles prepared 3 hours after burn and in 50% of the preparations taken one hour after the injury the \"biphasic\" dependence frequency power (F-P) peculiar to healthy myocardium changed to \"monophasic\" one (contraction amplitude progressively decreased on the frequency growing), and poststimulating potentiation, absent in the normal myocardium state, appeared. Within 10-minute shock duration only several preparations revealed poststimulating potentiation, F-P changes being absent. Normal rhythmoinotropic relationships in the myocardium restored under the influence of two-fol increase of (Ca2+)o or under prolonged (3-4 hours) perfusion of the preparation with normal Tyrode's solution. The changes observed in the myocardium rhythmoinotropic relationships produced by the burn shock were similar to those occurred as a result of the calcium canals block by the compound D-600.", "contents": "[Change in the contractile activity of the rabbit myocardium as a result of burn shock of different duration]. Experiments were carried out on the papillary muscles prepared from the rabbit heart 10, 60 or 180 minutes after exposure of the animals to thermal burn. Isometric tension in the changing stimulation frequency of the preparation (the range being 0.1-2.0 Hz) and in post-stimulating potentiation was recorded. It was shown that the disturbance degree of the myocardial contractile activity caused by the burn rose depending on increased shock duration. It was evidenced by the following findings: in all the papillary muscles prepared 3 hours after burn and in 50% of the preparations taken one hour after the injury the \"biphasic\" dependence frequency power (F-P) peculiar to healthy myocardium changed to \"monophasic\" one (contraction amplitude progressively decreased on the frequency growing), and poststimulating potentiation, absent in the normal myocardium state, appeared. Within 10-minute shock duration only several preparations revealed poststimulating potentiation, F-P changes being absent. Normal rhythmoinotropic relationships in the myocardium restored under the influence of two-fol increase of (Ca2+)o or under prolonged (3-4 hours) perfusion of the preparation with normal Tyrode's solution. The changes observed in the myocardium rhythmoinotropic relationships produced by the burn shock were similar to those occurred as a result of the calcium canals block by the compound D-600.", "PMID": 454813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11372", "title": "[Effect of craniocerebral hypothermic perfusion on the metabolism of ischemic brain].", "content": "Intravascular perfusion of the brain by colloid-saline \"extracellular\" fluid was carried out in 58 experimental dogs against the background of acute hypoxia. Biochemical indices of metabolism in flowing and outflowing brain fluid as well as in the brain tissue were studied. It was shown that under conditions of acute hypoxia normo- and particularly hypothermic intravascular perfusion of the brain by colloid-saline fluid decreases the disturbances of metabolic homeostasis.", "contents": "[Effect of craniocerebral hypothermic perfusion on the metabolism of ischemic brain]. Intravascular perfusion of the brain by colloid-saline \"extracellular\" fluid was carried out in 58 experimental dogs against the background of acute hypoxia. Biochemical indices of metabolism in flowing and outflowing brain fluid as well as in the brain tissue were studied. It was shown that under conditions of acute hypoxia normo- and particularly hypothermic intravascular perfusion of the brain by colloid-saline fluid decreases the disturbances of metabolic homeostasis.", "PMID": 454814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11373", "title": "[Pancreatic enzyme spectrum in chronic stress].", "content": "In acute experiments on white male rats the enzyme spectrum of pancreas homogenate was studied in the process of 30-day adaptation after 3-hour exposure to the muscular loading (compulsory swimming in the water at a temperature of 32 +/- 1 degree C), the heat (overheating at 40-41 degrees C) and the cold (cooling at -3-4 degrees C). It was shown that the initial periods of adaptation to the factors mentioned (2d-12th day) were characterized by a considerable decrease in the activity of all the enzymes under study. With subsequent adaptation of the animal body to these stresses the enzyme activity level recovered to the initial value (18-24th day) and remained more or less stable up to the end of the experiment (30th day). It is suggested that the alteration of the pancreatic enzyme spectrum proceeds with the participation of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal-adrenal systems as a general adaptation syndrome.", "contents": "[Pancreatic enzyme spectrum in chronic stress]. In acute experiments on white male rats the enzyme spectrum of pancreas homogenate was studied in the process of 30-day adaptation after 3-hour exposure to the muscular loading (compulsory swimming in the water at a temperature of 32 +/- 1 degree C), the heat (overheating at 40-41 degrees C) and the cold (cooling at -3-4 degrees C). It was shown that the initial periods of adaptation to the factors mentioned (2d-12th day) were characterized by a considerable decrease in the activity of all the enzymes under study. With subsequent adaptation of the animal body to these stresses the enzyme activity level recovered to the initial value (18-24th day) and remained more or less stable up to the end of the experiment (30th day). It is suggested that the alteration of the pancreatic enzyme spectrum proceeds with the participation of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal-adrenal systems as a general adaptation syndrome.", "PMID": 454815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11374", "title": "[Lipid peroxides and thrombosis].", "content": "In incubation of rabbit platelets with ADF, adrenalin, serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides they show, determined with respect to malonic dialdehyde, rises simultaneously with the enhancement of aggregation activity. Still higher level of malonic dialdehyde can be found in platelets of the animals with thrombosis of pulmonary vessels. The studies performed demonstrate that accumulation of malonic dialdehyde in platelets involves an initial stage of the thromboti process development. This finding can be used in the diagnosis of early stages of intravascular thrombogenesis.", "contents": "[Lipid peroxides and thrombosis]. In incubation of rabbit platelets with ADF, adrenalin, serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides serotonin and thrombin the level of hydroxyperoxides they show, determined with respect to malonic dialdehyde, rises simultaneously with the enhancement of aggregation activity. Still higher level of malonic dialdehyde can be found in platelets of the animals with thrombosis of pulmonary vessels. The studies performed demonstrate that accumulation of malonic dialdehyde in platelets involves an initial stage of the thromboti process development. This finding can be used in the diagnosis of early stages of intravascular thrombogenesis.", "PMID": 454816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11375", "title": "[Study of bromthymol blue-prealbumin in the blood serum of rats under hyperbaric oxygenation].", "content": "Three-fold increase of BTB-prealbumin (Rm 1.0) in rat serum following fierse convulsions under hyperbaric oxygenation (6 ati, 30-35 min) has been proved by disc electrophoresis. Glial S100-protein and 7-fold increase in the all-organ component of brain BTB-prealbumin were found by immunochemistry to appear in the serum of experimental rats. The consequences of disorders in the blood-brain barrier for non-specific, all-organ proteins and potentialities of protein output from the brain into the blood similarly to neurophysins under hyperbaric oxygenation are discussed.", "contents": "[Study of bromthymol blue-prealbumin in the blood serum of rats under hyperbaric oxygenation]. Three-fold increase of BTB-prealbumin (Rm 1.0) in rat serum following fierse convulsions under hyperbaric oxygenation (6 ati, 30-35 min) has been proved by disc electrophoresis. Glial S100-protein and 7-fold increase in the all-organ component of brain BTB-prealbumin were found by immunochemistry to appear in the serum of experimental rats. The consequences of disorders in the blood-brain barrier for non-specific, all-organ proteins and potentialities of protein output from the brain into the blood similarly to neurophysins under hyperbaric oxygenation are discussed.", "PMID": 454817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11376", "title": "[Characteristics of the energy of electrostatic interaction of the formed elements of blood in experimental myocardial ischemia].", "content": "The diffusion and z-potentials of red cells of the blood outflowing from the zone of myocardial ischemia through the branch of the large cardiac vein were studied during acute period of experimental myocardial infarction. This enabled one to calculate the energy of electrostatic repulsion (EER) between blood constituents and to identify the factors exerting a significant effect on this value in acute experimental myocardial infarction induced in 20 dogs by ligation of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery. It was shown that the energetic state of the double electric lesion is the leading factor in the changed EER and in manifestation of the aggregation activity by the blood constituents. It was noted that the energetic potentials of red cells of the blood collected from the zone of myocardial ischemia show a statistically significant reduction.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the energy of electrostatic interaction of the formed elements of blood in experimental myocardial ischemia]. The diffusion and z-potentials of red cells of the blood outflowing from the zone of myocardial ischemia through the branch of the large cardiac vein were studied during acute period of experimental myocardial infarction. This enabled one to calculate the energy of electrostatic repulsion (EER) between blood constituents and to identify the factors exerting a significant effect on this value in acute experimental myocardial infarction induced in 20 dogs by ligation of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery. It was shown that the energetic state of the double electric lesion is the leading factor in the changed EER and in manifestation of the aggregation activity by the blood constituents. It was noted that the energetic potentials of red cells of the blood collected from the zone of myocardial ischemia show a statistically significant reduction.", "PMID": 454818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11377", "title": "[Role of lipid peroxidation and alpha-tocopherol in the conductivity of model membranes from phospholipids of the liver of rats with burns].", "content": "The membrane conductivity for K+ and Ca+2 ions was studied on bilayer phospholipid membranes formed by phospholipids extracted from the rat liver 1 hour, 1, 3, 7, and 15 days after burning. A pronounced increase in the membrane conductivity was noted. The most potent effects were seen by the 1t, 3d and 7th day of the experiment and the conductivity value varied depending on the medium pH. The process was accompanied by lipid peroxidation increase. Intraperitoneal administration of alpha-tocopherol at 1 mg/kg dose immediately after burning, followed by injections on the 3d, 7th and 12th day, normalized the characteristics studied. Bilayer membranes formed by healthy rat liver phospholipids previously added with an appropriate amount of methyl oleate or cumylhydroperoxide demonstrated higher conductivity as compared to the normal.", "contents": "[Role of lipid peroxidation and alpha-tocopherol in the conductivity of model membranes from phospholipids of the liver of rats with burns]. The membrane conductivity for K+ and Ca+2 ions was studied on bilayer phospholipid membranes formed by phospholipids extracted from the rat liver 1 hour, 1, 3, 7, and 15 days after burning. A pronounced increase in the membrane conductivity was noted. The most potent effects were seen by the 1t, 3d and 7th day of the experiment and the conductivity value varied depending on the medium pH. The process was accompanied by lipid peroxidation increase. Intraperitoneal administration of alpha-tocopherol at 1 mg/kg dose immediately after burning, followed by injections on the 3d, 7th and 12th day, normalized the characteristics studied. Bilayer membranes formed by healthy rat liver phospholipids previously added with an appropriate amount of methyl oleate or cumylhydroperoxide demonstrated higher conductivity as compared to the normal.", "PMID": 454819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11378", "title": "[Effect of ornid on the regulation of cerebrovascular circulation].", "content": "An investigation of ornid, using radioisotopic, electromagnetic and resistographic methods, has shown the drug to diminish cerebral circulation and to abolish completely the constriction of the brain vessels induced by stimulation of the sympathetic and somatic nerves. Ornid prevented the development of experimental disturbances of the cerebral circulation of adrenergic nature.", "contents": "[Effect of ornid on the regulation of cerebrovascular circulation]. An investigation of ornid, using radioisotopic, electromagnetic and resistographic methods, has shown the drug to diminish cerebral circulation and to abolish completely the constriction of the brain vessels induced by stimulation of the sympathetic and somatic nerves. Ornid prevented the development of experimental disturbances of the cerebral circulation of adrenergic nature.", "PMID": 454820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11379", "title": "[Course of acute myocardial ischemia in dogs depending on the pharmacological background].", "content": "In acute myocardial ischemia of dogs glycogen is mobilized most completely and its break down products are utilized most efficaciously after administration of izatin rather than after gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GABA) and guthymin. Izatin potentiates a beneficial effect of GABA on myocardial energy efficiency.", "contents": "[Course of acute myocardial ischemia in dogs depending on the pharmacological background]. In acute myocardial ischemia of dogs glycogen is mobilized most completely and its break down products are utilized most efficaciously after administration of izatin rather than after gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GABA) and guthymin. Izatin potentiates a beneficial effect of GABA on myocardial energy efficiency.", "PMID": 454821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11380", "title": "[Quantitative determination of lysozyme in the blood serum].", "content": "A method, based on the lysozyme ability to selective sorption on chitin followed by reversible enzyme-substrate complex formation, is suggested for quantitative determination of lysozyme in blood serum. The technique offers no difficulty in application, requires no expensive equipment and therefore can be used in clinical practice.", "contents": "[Quantitative determination of lysozyme in the blood serum]. A method, based on the lysozyme ability to selective sorption on chitin followed by reversible enzyme-substrate complex formation, is suggested for quantitative determination of lysozyme in blood serum. The technique offers no difficulty in application, requires no expensive equipment and therefore can be used in clinical practice.", "PMID": 454822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11381", "title": "[Effect of methotrexate on the expression of alloantigens in the population of murine lymph node cells].", "content": "The effect of methotrexate given intraperitoneally to (CBA X C57BL/6j) F1 mice on the expression of alloantigens in the lymphatic node cell population was investigated. For this purpose cells from intact or methotrexate-treated F1 mice were injected into the foot-pad of CBA mice. The reaction was estimated as an increase of the regional popliteal lymphatic node in comparison with contralateral (intact) one. The injection of methotrexate in doses of 50 and 75 mg/kg significantly increased the alloantigenicity of the F1 mouse lymphatic node cell population.", "contents": "[Effect of methotrexate on the expression of alloantigens in the population of murine lymph node cells]. The effect of methotrexate given intraperitoneally to (CBA X C57BL/6j) F1 mice on the expression of alloantigens in the lymphatic node cell population was investigated. For this purpose cells from intact or methotrexate-treated F1 mice were injected into the foot-pad of CBA mice. The reaction was estimated as an increase of the regional popliteal lymphatic node in comparison with contralateral (intact) one. The injection of methotrexate in doses of 50 and 75 mg/kg significantly increased the alloantigenicity of the F1 mouse lymphatic node cell population.", "PMID": 454823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11382", "title": "[State of the erythrocyte surface (echinocytosis) in experimental carcinogenesis].", "content": "Characteristic red cell deformation, echinocytosis peculiar to mammary tumour susceptible C3H mice, were revealed by a comparative study of erythrocytes in animals with a different natural resistance to spontaneous carcinogenesis. 58.6% of spiny red cells was found at the early latent period (at the age of 3-4 months) and reached 91.1% at the late latent period (at the age of 11-12 months). In the blood of intact C57BL/6 mice resistant to mammary carcinogenesis, at the same ages the echinocyte count ranged from 16.0 to 18.7%. The tumour growth (spontaneous tumour in C3H mice and transplantable Ehrlich adenocarcinoma in C57BL/6 mice was accompanied by an increase in the echynocyte count and in the expression of echinocytosis (up to 96.6 and 65.3%, respectively). Possible pathogenetic mechanisms of echinocytosis in carcinogenesis are discussed.", "contents": "[State of the erythrocyte surface (echinocytosis) in experimental carcinogenesis]. Characteristic red cell deformation, echinocytosis peculiar to mammary tumour susceptible C3H mice, were revealed by a comparative study of erythrocytes in animals with a different natural resistance to spontaneous carcinogenesis. 58.6% of spiny red cells was found at the early latent period (at the age of 3-4 months) and reached 91.1% at the late latent period (at the age of 11-12 months). In the blood of intact C57BL/6 mice resistant to mammary carcinogenesis, at the same ages the echinocyte count ranged from 16.0 to 18.7%. The tumour growth (spontaneous tumour in C3H mice and transplantable Ehrlich adenocarcinoma in C57BL/6 mice was accompanied by an increase in the echynocyte count and in the expression of echinocytosis (up to 96.6 and 65.3%, respectively). Possible pathogenetic mechanisms of echinocytosis in carcinogenesis are discussed.", "PMID": 454824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11383", "title": "[Effect of age, castration and pregnancy on carcinogenesis, induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine, in CBA mice].", "content": "Subcutaneous injection of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine into female CBA mice once a week resulted in the development of tumours of the colon, anal region, uterus and liver. In 12-13-month-old mice treated with DMH an earlier appearance (week 8) of uterine sarcomas and more rapid increase in the incidence of tumours of the anal region were noted as compared to 3-month-old mice. In pregnant females treated with DMH a statistically significant decrease in the uterine sarcoma incidence was observed (10.3% versus 48.3% in nonpregnant). Pregnancy exerted no effect on the incidence of tumours at other sites. Castration did not affect the time of appearance and the incidence of tumours of any site.", "contents": "[Effect of age, castration and pregnancy on carcinogenesis, induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine, in CBA mice]. Subcutaneous injection of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine into female CBA mice once a week resulted in the development of tumours of the colon, anal region, uterus and liver. In 12-13-month-old mice treated with DMH an earlier appearance (week 8) of uterine sarcomas and more rapid increase in the incidence of tumours of the anal region were noted as compared to 3-month-old mice. In pregnant females treated with DMH a statistically significant decrease in the uterine sarcoma incidence was observed (10.3% versus 48.3% in nonpregnant). Pregnancy exerted no effect on the incidence of tumours at other sites. Castration did not affect the time of appearance and the incidence of tumours of any site.", "PMID": 454825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11384", "title": "[Resistance of BCG-vaccinated body to tumor growth after administration of cyclophosphamide and desensitization].", "content": "It was shown that tumor growth is intensifying as a result of tumor cell implantation not only in early sensitization of BCG-vaccinated organism (see previously published data) but at the later period as well. Cyclophosphan removed this effect whereas desensitization carried out against the background of cyclophosphan action restored it. The data on the relationship between tuberculin allergy and the state of immunological defence reactions of the body suggest the possibility of stimulation of tumor growth as well as of its inhibition.", "contents": "[Resistance of BCG-vaccinated body to tumor growth after administration of cyclophosphamide and desensitization]. It was shown that tumor growth is intensifying as a result of tumor cell implantation not only in early sensitization of BCG-vaccinated organism (see previously published data) but at the later period as well. Cyclophosphan removed this effect whereas desensitization carried out against the background of cyclophosphan action restored it. The data on the relationship between tuberculin allergy and the state of immunological defence reactions of the body suggest the possibility of stimulation of tumor growth as well as of its inhibition.", "PMID": 454826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11385", "title": "[Conditions controlling the development of distant intercellular interactions during ultraviolet radiation].", "content": "The study is concerned with ascertaining the role of UV radiation in distant intercellular interactions (DII) and the conditions resulting in \"MIRROR\" CYTOPATHIC EFFECT (\"M\" CPE). It has been found that the UV radiation-induced extreme state of the cells in a radiant culture produces distantly in an intact detector culture, which has only an optic contact with it, the cytopathic effect (CPE) as a repercussion of a specificity of morphological manifestations imprinted in the affected culture. UV preparadiation of the detector cells aids in manifestation of the \"mirror\" CPE.", "contents": "[Conditions controlling the development of distant intercellular interactions during ultraviolet radiation]. The study is concerned with ascertaining the role of UV radiation in distant intercellular interactions (DII) and the conditions resulting in \"MIRROR\" CYTOPATHIC EFFECT (\"M\" CPE). It has been found that the UV radiation-induced extreme state of the cells in a radiant culture produces distantly in an intact detector culture, which has only an optic contact with it, the cytopathic effect (CPE) as a repercussion of a specificity of morphological manifestations imprinted in the affected culture. UV preparadiation of the detector cells aids in manifestation of the \"mirror\" CPE.", "PMID": 454827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11386", "title": "[Mitotic indices of bone marrow cells and their correlative relationships in dogs].", "content": "It was shown that mitotic indices of erythroblasts, basophilic and polychromatophilic normoblasts, myeloblasts, promyelocytes and myelocytes decline depending on the degree of cell differentiation and are quantitatively expressed by the ratio 4:2:1. The feedback between the value of mitotic indices and the number of cells which is expressed by power dependence was identified.", "contents": "[Mitotic indices of bone marrow cells and their correlative relationships in dogs]. It was shown that mitotic indices of erythroblasts, basophilic and polychromatophilic normoblasts, myeloblasts, promyelocytes and myelocytes decline depending on the degree of cell differentiation and are quantitatively expressed by the ratio 4:2:1. The feedback between the value of mitotic indices and the number of cells which is expressed by power dependence was identified.", "PMID": 454828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11387", "title": "[Changes in platelet aggregation and fibrinolytic activity of blood in healthy persons during the 23-day physical cycle].", "content": "The blood of 100 health humans aged 18 to 40 years was analysed. The aggregation of platelets and blood fibrinolytic activity were shown to change within 23-day physical cycle according to Swoboda and Fliess. In the negative phase the platelets count, their aggregation, desaggregation process and blood fibrinolytic activity were higher than in the positive one. No substantial differences in platelets aggregation and blood fibrinolytic activity were found during the positive and negative phases of the emotional or intellectual cycles.", "contents": "[Changes in platelet aggregation and fibrinolytic activity of blood in healthy persons during the 23-day physical cycle]. The blood of 100 health humans aged 18 to 40 years was analysed. The aggregation of platelets and blood fibrinolytic activity were shown to change within 23-day physical cycle according to Swoboda and Fliess. In the negative phase the platelets count, their aggregation, desaggregation process and blood fibrinolytic activity were higher than in the positive one. No substantial differences in platelets aggregation and blood fibrinolytic activity were found during the positive and negative phases of the emotional or intellectual cycles.", "PMID": 454829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11388", "title": "[ultrastructure of rosette-forming cells in the wall of intestinal allotransplant].", "content": "The development of a specific rosette-formation was observed following total allotransplantation in the small intestine wall. The rosettes were formed from the central lymphocyte or neutrophil and adjucent plasmatic cells. The formation of plasmatic rosettes (P-rosettes) is considered as a possible index of the graft reaction versus the host.", "contents": "[ultrastructure of rosette-forming cells in the wall of intestinal allotransplant]. The development of a specific rosette-formation was observed following total allotransplantation in the small intestine wall. The rosettes were formed from the central lymphocyte or neutrophil and adjucent plasmatic cells. The formation of plasmatic rosettes (P-rosettes) is considered as a possible index of the graft reaction versus the host.", "PMID": 454830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11389", "title": "[Distribution of the bone marrow cells in the skeleton of mice].", "content": "The data on the content of nucleated bone marrow cells in 17 skeletal portions of the hybrid F1 (CBA X C57B1) laboratory mice weighing 18-21 g are presented. The bone marrow content in the bones of the spine, head, inferior limb, pelvis, upper limb, sternum and ribs constituted 33.7; 19.6; 17.6; 11.9; 8.2 and 9.0% of the total amount, respectively. The epxerimental results are compared with the literature data.", "contents": "[Distribution of the bone marrow cells in the skeleton of mice]. The data on the content of nucleated bone marrow cells in 17 skeletal portions of the hybrid F1 (CBA X C57B1) laboratory mice weighing 18-21 g are presented. The bone marrow content in the bones of the spine, head, inferior limb, pelvis, upper limb, sternum and ribs constituted 33.7; 19.6; 17.6; 11.9; 8.2 and 9.0% of the total amount, respectively. The epxerimental results are compared with the literature data.", "PMID": 454831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11390", "title": "[Effect of maternal hypoxia on the neurogenesis of the cerebral cortex of rat progeny (autoradiographic study)].", "content": "Rats with 15-day pregnancy were exposed to two-hour hypoxia corresponding to 8,000 m altitude. On the 18th day of pregnancy they were administered thymidine-3H three times. Quantitative autoradiographic studies were performed on brain cortex neurons of 30-day rat progeny. The animals who had sustained intrauterine hypoxia were shown to have obviously higher number of labeled neurons in IId, IIId and Vth layers of the sensomotor area than controls. Differences in the label intensity were also revealed. It is suggested that maternal hypoxia may delay differentiation and maturation of the brain cortex neurons in the progeny.", "contents": "[Effect of maternal hypoxia on the neurogenesis of the cerebral cortex of rat progeny (autoradiographic study)]. Rats with 15-day pregnancy were exposed to two-hour hypoxia corresponding to 8,000 m altitude. On the 18th day of pregnancy they were administered thymidine-3H three times. Quantitative autoradiographic studies were performed on brain cortex neurons of 30-day rat progeny. The animals who had sustained intrauterine hypoxia were shown to have obviously higher number of labeled neurons in IId, IIId and Vth layers of the sensomotor area than controls. Differences in the label intensity were also revealed. It is suggested that maternal hypoxia may delay differentiation and maturation of the brain cortex neurons in the progeny.", "PMID": 454832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11391", "title": "[Effect of acetylcholine on the mast cells of the dura mater].", "content": "The effects of various doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) of acetylcholine on the mast cells of the dura mater was studied in white rats by electron microscopy and the Falck fluorescent method. The qualitative and quantitative differences were found in the processes of accumulation and removal of monoamines depending on the drug dosage. The data obtained allow to suggest the stimulating effect of acetylcholine on monoamine secretion.", "contents": "[Effect of acetylcholine on the mast cells of the dura mater]. The effects of various doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) of acetylcholine on the mast cells of the dura mater was studied in white rats by electron microscopy and the Falck fluorescent method. The qualitative and quantitative differences were found in the processes of accumulation and removal of monoamines depending on the drug dosage. The data obtained allow to suggest the stimulating effect of acetylcholine on monoamine secretion.", "PMID": 454833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11392", "title": "[Method of preparation of the microspecimens of intestinal villi].", "content": "In order to get significant microscopic pictures a method is proposed for embedding in paraffin and preparing precisely planed serial sections of some intestinal villi isolated from the enterobioptate mucosa fixed with 12% neutral formalin under the control of binocular magnifier. The method ensures an adequate evaluation of different forms the whole of villi or in micropreparations.", "contents": "[Method of preparation of the microspecimens of intestinal villi]. In order to get significant microscopic pictures a method is proposed for embedding in paraffin and preparing precisely planed serial sections of some intestinal villi isolated from the enterobioptate mucosa fixed with 12% neutral formalin under the control of binocular magnifier. The method ensures an adequate evaluation of different forms the whole of villi or in micropreparations.", "PMID": 454834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11393", "title": "[Characteristics of impedance properties of metal bioelectrodes].", "content": "Dependence of interelectrode impedance on the metal type, electrode area of processing its working surface and current frequency was investigated. A series of 15 materials according to their impedance characteristics were obtained and a relationship between a sequence of preparations of heavy metals according to the density of albuminates they produced was established. It was demonstrated, that electrode difference in impedance of extreme members of the series was considerable in the zone of low frequency and was insignificant in the zone above 10-50 Khz.", "contents": "[Characteristics of impedance properties of metal bioelectrodes]. Dependence of interelectrode impedance on the metal type, electrode area of processing its working surface and current frequency was investigated. A series of 15 materials according to their impedance characteristics were obtained and a relationship between a sequence of preparations of heavy metals according to the density of albuminates they produced was established. It was demonstrated, that electrode difference in impedance of extreme members of the series was considerable in the zone of low frequency and was insignificant in the zone above 10-50 Khz.", "PMID": 454835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11394", "title": "[Use of the television analysing system in the studies on microcirculation].", "content": "In the experiments on anesthetized rats the television analysing system (LEITZ-TAS) was used for evaluation of quantitative structure-functional characteristics of microcirculation under intravital conditions and the development of microvessel network, for measuring geometric parameters of microvessels and blood flow change in them, as well as to define the degree and spreading of the disturbances in the vessel wall permeability.", "contents": "[Use of the television analysing system in the studies on microcirculation]. In the experiments on anesthetized rats the television analysing system (LEITZ-TAS) was used for evaluation of quantitative structure-functional characteristics of microcirculation under intravital conditions and the development of microvessel network, for measuring geometric parameters of microvessels and blood flow change in them, as well as to define the degree and spreading of the disturbances in the vessel wall permeability.", "PMID": 454836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11395", "title": "The effectiveness of rubidazone in hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis).", "content": "Two patients with hairy cell leukemia treated with the anthracycline antibiotic rubidazone are presented. One achieved a complete remission and the other a good partial hematologic and bone marrow remission. Neither has relapsed (at 20 and 13 mo, respectively), and neither has been retreated. Intensive supportive measures were required during the prolonged myelosuppression that followed treatment. The relative youth of the patients (ages 24 and 39 yr) may have contributed to their ability to survive until normal marrow recovered. Chemotherapy should not be employed in the initial management of hairy cell leukemia. However, if life-threatening granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia occur secondary to bone marrow replacement by leukemic cells, and improvement does not occur using alternative methods of therapy, consideration could be given to chemotherapy with rubidazone. Facilities for intensive supportive care should be available.", "contents": "The effectiveness of rubidazone in hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis). Two patients with hairy cell leukemia treated with the anthracycline antibiotic rubidazone are presented. One achieved a complete remission and the other a good partial hematologic and bone marrow remission. Neither has relapsed (at 20 and 13 mo, respectively), and neither has been retreated. Intensive supportive measures were required during the prolonged myelosuppression that followed treatment. The relative youth of the patients (ages 24 and 39 yr) may have contributed to their ability to survive until normal marrow recovered. Chemotherapy should not be employed in the initial management of hairy cell leukemia. However, if life-threatening granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia occur secondary to bone marrow replacement by leukemic cells, and improvement does not occur using alternative methods of therapy, consideration could be given to chemotherapy with rubidazone. Facilities for intensive supportive care should be available.", "PMID": 454838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11396", "title": "Treatment of hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis) II. Chlorambucil therapy in postsplenectomy patients with progressive disease.", "content": "Four postsplenectomy patients with progressive hairy cell leukemia were treated with daily low doses of an alkylating agent (chlorambucil, 4 mg). An objective response, measured by improvement in blood counts in four patients as well as decreased bone marrow involvement on core biopsy in three patients, could be documented within 6 mo. It is important to identify the postsplenectomy patient with progressive disease as early as possible in order to initiate low-dose single agent chemotherapy and have the time necessary to effect an objective response.", "contents": "Treatment of hairy cell leukemia (leukemic reticuloendotheliosis) II. Chlorambucil therapy in postsplenectomy patients with progressive disease. Four postsplenectomy patients with progressive hairy cell leukemia were treated with daily low doses of an alkylating agent (chlorambucil, 4 mg). An objective response, measured by improvement in blood counts in four patients as well as decreased bone marrow involvement on core biopsy in three patients, could be documented within 6 mo. It is important to identify the postsplenectomy patient with progressive disease as early as possible in order to initiate low-dose single agent chemotherapy and have the time necessary to effect an objective response.", "PMID": 454839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11397", "title": "Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria associated with infectious mononucleosis.", "content": "A previously healthy 16-yr-old girl was found to have pancytopenia, low reticulocyte count, a cellular bone marrow, and a negative Coombs test, all coincident with clinical and laboratory evidence of infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms and signs of infectious mononucleosis subsided, but pancytopenia and hemolytic anemia persisted. Sucrose hemolysis and acid hemolysis tests supported a diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). After 18 mo, the platelet count is normal, but leukopenia and hemolytic anemia continue. The development of PNH in this patient suggests it may have resulted from an effect of infectious mononucleosis.", "contents": "Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria associated with infectious mononucleosis. A previously healthy 16-yr-old girl was found to have pancytopenia, low reticulocyte count, a cellular bone marrow, and a negative Coombs test, all coincident with clinical and laboratory evidence of infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms and signs of infectious mononucleosis subsided, but pancytopenia and hemolytic anemia persisted. Sucrose hemolysis and acid hemolysis tests supported a diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). After 18 mo, the platelet count is normal, but leukopenia and hemolytic anemia continue. The development of PNH in this patient suggests it may have resulted from an effect of infectious mononucleosis.", "PMID": 454841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11398", "title": "The protective effect of intraperitoneal splenic autotransplants in mice exposed to an aerosolized suspension of type III Streptococcus pneumoniae.", "content": "Splenosis has been shown to occur after traumatic injury to the spleen. It is postulated that this is the mechanism for the low incidence of bacterial infection in this group of patients when compared to those who undergo splenectomy for other reasons. Therefore, we studied the effect of exposure to an aerosolized suspension of type III Streptococcus pneumoniae on splenectomized mice who had either all or half of their splenic tissue cut up and reimplanted into the abdominal cavity 8 wk prior to bacterial exposure. It was determined that the mortality experience of these two groups of mice was similar to each other and no different from the sham control group, although all three groups had a statistically significant lower mortality experience than the splenectomized control group. This study demonstrates that splenosis in mice can protect against aerosolized bacterial infection.", "contents": "The protective effect of intraperitoneal splenic autotransplants in mice exposed to an aerosolized suspension of type III Streptococcus pneumoniae. Splenosis has been shown to occur after traumatic injury to the spleen. It is postulated that this is the mechanism for the low incidence of bacterial infection in this group of patients when compared to those who undergo splenectomy for other reasons. Therefore, we studied the effect of exposure to an aerosolized suspension of type III Streptococcus pneumoniae on splenectomized mice who had either all or half of their splenic tissue cut up and reimplanted into the abdominal cavity 8 wk prior to bacterial exposure. It was determined that the mortality experience of these two groups of mice was similar to each other and no different from the sham control group, although all three groups had a statistically significant lower mortality experience than the splenectomized control group. This study demonstrates that splenosis in mice can protect against aerosolized bacterial infection.", "PMID": 454842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11399", "title": "Mononuclear cell tissue factor: cell of origin and requirements for activation.", "content": "Human mononuclear leukocytes generate the procoagulant material tissue factor (TF) following stimulation by endotoxin, mitogens, or antigens in vitro. We have examined tissue-factor generation by mononuclear cell subpopulations prepared in a variety of ways in order to determine the cell of origin of mononuclear cell TF and the conditions necessary for maximal in vitro TF generation. We have also examined the relationship between in vitro TF generation and in vivo or in vitro measures of delayed hypersensitivity in response to identical antigen stimulation. Our results demonstrate that the monocyte is responsible for the bulk of mononuclear cell TF generation in vitro and that adhesion alone is not sufficient stimulation for significant.", "contents": "Mononuclear cell tissue factor: cell of origin and requirements for activation. Human mononuclear leukocytes generate the procoagulant material tissue factor (TF) following stimulation by endotoxin, mitogens, or antigens in vitro. We have examined tissue-factor generation by mononuclear cell subpopulations prepared in a variety of ways in order to determine the cell of origin of mononuclear cell TF and the conditions necessary for maximal in vitro TF generation. We have also examined the relationship between in vitro TF generation and in vivo or in vitro measures of delayed hypersensitivity in response to identical antigen stimulation. Our results demonstrate that the monocyte is responsible for the bulk of mononuclear cell TF generation in vitro and that adhesion alone is not sufficient stimulation for significant.", "PMID": 454843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11400", "title": "Partial purification of thrombopoietin from the plasma of thrombocytopenic rabbits.", "content": "Partially purified thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity was prepared from the plasma of thrombocytopenic rabbits using ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE cellulose, Sephadex, and carboxymethyl cellulose chromatography. The protein fraction precipitated by an ammonium sulfate saturation of 60%-80%, previously shown to contain thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity, was used as starting material. Column chromatography was carried out at room temperature at pH 5.6. Under these conditions, thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity (thrombopoietin) was retained by DEAE cellulose (0/03 M citrate-phosphate buffer) and carboxymethyl cellulose (0/003 M citrate-phosphate buffer), and eluted with 0.4 M NaCl. Thrombopoietin was retarded by Sephadex G-100; the ratio of the elution volume to the void volume was 1.32:1. Immunoelectrophoretic analysis of partially purified thrombopoietin indicated that following removal of most of the albumin by DEAE chromatography, only proteins with the mobilities of beta-globulins and albumin and traces of other anodally migrating proteins were detectable in the fractions that contained thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity. Thrombopoietin was not dialyzable and was stable from at least pH 5.6 to 7.5. It was approximately 1000-fold purified following sequential chromatography with DEAE and carboxymethyl cellulose. Although the three fractions described reproducibly stimulated thrombopoiesis, as measured by increased levels of selenomethionine-75Se (75SeM) in the circulating platelets, platelet counts did not increase.", "contents": "Partial purification of thrombopoietin from the plasma of thrombocytopenic rabbits. Partially purified thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity was prepared from the plasma of thrombocytopenic rabbits using ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE cellulose, Sephadex, and carboxymethyl cellulose chromatography. The protein fraction precipitated by an ammonium sulfate saturation of 60%-80%, previously shown to contain thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity, was used as starting material. Column chromatography was carried out at room temperature at pH 5.6. Under these conditions, thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity (thrombopoietin) was retained by DEAE cellulose (0/03 M citrate-phosphate buffer) and carboxymethyl cellulose (0/003 M citrate-phosphate buffer), and eluted with 0.4 M NaCl. Thrombopoietin was retarded by Sephadex G-100; the ratio of the elution volume to the void volume was 1.32:1. Immunoelectrophoretic analysis of partially purified thrombopoietin indicated that following removal of most of the albumin by DEAE chromatography, only proteins with the mobilities of beta-globulins and albumin and traces of other anodally migrating proteins were detectable in the fractions that contained thrombopoiesis-stimulating activity. Thrombopoietin was not dialyzable and was stable from at least pH 5.6 to 7.5. It was approximately 1000-fold purified following sequential chromatography with DEAE and carboxymethyl cellulose. Although the three fractions described reproducibly stimulated thrombopoiesis, as measured by increased levels of selenomethionine-75Se (75SeM) in the circulating platelets, platelet counts did not increase.", "PMID": 454845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11401", "title": "Decrease of the major high molecular weight surface glycoprotein of human granulocytes in monosomy-7 associated with defective chemotaxis.", "content": "By use of the galactose/NaB3H4 surface labeling technique followed by polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis, it is shown that the major labeled surface glycoprotein (GP130) of normal human blood granulocytes is markedly reduced in granulocytes from three patients with a chromosomal abnormality in all or most bone marrow mitoses. The abnormality consisted of monosomy-7 in two and deletion of the distal half of the long arm of chromosome-7 in the third. The granulocytes from these patients showed reduced chemotaxis. These results suggest that the expression of GP130, as well as the chemotactic ability of the cells, are at least in part controlled by one or several genes on chromosome-7. The GP130 protein may be involved in normal granulocyte chemotaxis.", "contents": "Decrease of the major high molecular weight surface glycoprotein of human granulocytes in monosomy-7 associated with defective chemotaxis. By use of the galactose/NaB3H4 surface labeling technique followed by polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis, it is shown that the major labeled surface glycoprotein (GP130) of normal human blood granulocytes is markedly reduced in granulocytes from three patients with a chromosomal abnormality in all or most bone marrow mitoses. The abnormality consisted of monosomy-7 in two and deletion of the distal half of the long arm of chromosome-7 in the third. The granulocytes from these patients showed reduced chemotaxis. These results suggest that the expression of GP130, as well as the chemotactic ability of the cells, are at least in part controlled by one or several genes on chromosome-7. The GP130 protein may be involved in normal granulocyte chemotaxis.", "PMID": 454846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11402", "title": "Characteristics of human mononuclear phagocytes.", "content": "In this study human mononuclear phagocytes from the bone marrow (promonocytes and monocytes), peripheral blood monocytes, and tissue macrophages from the skin and the peritoneal cavity were studied with respect to their morphological, cytochemical, and functional characteristics, cell surface receptors, and 3H-thymidine incorporation in vitro. The results show similarities between mononuclear phagocytes of the three body compartments with respect to esterase staining, the presence of peroxidase-positive granules, the presence of IgG and C receptors, and pinocytic and phagocytic activity. Promonocytes are the most immature mononuclear phagocytes identified in human bone marrow, and since about 80% of these cells incorporate 3H-thymidine, they are actively dividing cells. Monocytes, whether in bone marrow or the peripheral blood, and both skin and peritoneal macrophages label minimally with 3H-thymidine and thus are nondividing cells. Since the characteristics of mononuclear phagocytes in man and mouse do not diverge greatly, it is probable that the cell sequence based on in vitro and in vivo 3H-thymidine labeling studies in the mouse holds for man as well. The successive stages of development of the human mononuclear phagocyte cell line will then be as follows: monoblasts (not yet characterized in man) divide to form promonocytes, and these cells in turn divide and give rise to monocytes that do not divide further; they leave the bone marrow, circulate in the peripheral blood, and finally become macrophages in the various tissues.", "contents": "Characteristics of human mononuclear phagocytes. In this study human mononuclear phagocytes from the bone marrow (promonocytes and monocytes), peripheral blood monocytes, and tissue macrophages from the skin and the peritoneal cavity were studied with respect to their morphological, cytochemical, and functional characteristics, cell surface receptors, and 3H-thymidine incorporation in vitro. The results show similarities between mononuclear phagocytes of the three body compartments with respect to esterase staining, the presence of peroxidase-positive granules, the presence of IgG and C receptors, and pinocytic and phagocytic activity. Promonocytes are the most immature mononuclear phagocytes identified in human bone marrow, and since about 80% of these cells incorporate 3H-thymidine, they are actively dividing cells. Monocytes, whether in bone marrow or the peripheral blood, and both skin and peritoneal macrophages label minimally with 3H-thymidine and thus are nondividing cells. Since the characteristics of mononuclear phagocytes in man and mouse do not diverge greatly, it is probable that the cell sequence based on in vitro and in vivo 3H-thymidine labeling studies in the mouse holds for man as well. The successive stages of development of the human mononuclear phagocyte cell line will then be as follows: monoblasts (not yet characterized in man) divide to form promonocytes, and these cells in turn divide and give rise to monocytes that do not divide further; they leave the bone marrow, circulate in the peripheral blood, and finally become macrophages in the various tissues.", "PMID": 454850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11403", "title": "Drug-induced agranulocytosis: in vitro evidence for immune suppression of granulopoiesis and a cross-reacting lymphocyte antibody.", "content": "Two patients with agranulocytosis associated with diphenylhydantoin (DPH) therapy and clinical data suggesting suppression of granulopoiesis were investigated using in vitro culture techniques for committed granulocyte/macrophage precursors. Addition of DPH to cultures containing the patients' sera resulted in significant suppression of colony growth. Extensive studies on the acute serum from one patient revealed the drug-dependent inhibitory activity to be nondialyzable, resistant to chloroform extraction, heat stable, active in the presence of heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum, active against autologous as well as allogeneic cells, and absent from convalescent sera. Drug-dependent bone marrow colony-suppressing activity was removed by absorption on an antiimmunoglobulin-Sepharose column but not by IgG-Sepharose. The serum show non-drug dependent suppression of oxygen consumption by normal polymorphonuclear leukocytes engaged in phagocytosis and also showed evidence of ability to opsonize these cells. When the serum was incubated with mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes, suppression of 3H-thymidine uptake by autologous but not allogeneic cells was noted. Similarly, the serum suppressed short-term 3H-thymidine uptake by autologous but not allogeneic bone marrow. Absorption of the patients' sera with allogeneic polymorphonuclear leukocytes, autologous polymorphonuclear leukocytes, or autologous lymphocytes removed the drug-dependent inhibitory activity, but absorption with allogeneic lymphocytes did not. These data are most consistent with the presence of a noncomplement dependent antibody capable of suppressing granulopoiesis, mediating peripheral destruction of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and cross-reacting with a lymphocyte antigen of limited population distribution.", "contents": "Drug-induced agranulocytosis: in vitro evidence for immune suppression of granulopoiesis and a cross-reacting lymphocyte antibody. Two patients with agranulocytosis associated with diphenylhydantoin (DPH) therapy and clinical data suggesting suppression of granulopoiesis were investigated using in vitro culture techniques for committed granulocyte/macrophage precursors. Addition of DPH to cultures containing the patients' sera resulted in significant suppression of colony growth. Extensive studies on the acute serum from one patient revealed the drug-dependent inhibitory activity to be nondialyzable, resistant to chloroform extraction, heat stable, active in the presence of heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum, active against autologous as well as allogeneic cells, and absent from convalescent sera. Drug-dependent bone marrow colony-suppressing activity was removed by absorption on an antiimmunoglobulin-Sepharose column but not by IgG-Sepharose. The serum show non-drug dependent suppression of oxygen consumption by normal polymorphonuclear leukocytes engaged in phagocytosis and also showed evidence of ability to opsonize these cells. When the serum was incubated with mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes, suppression of 3H-thymidine uptake by autologous but not allogeneic cells was noted. Similarly, the serum suppressed short-term 3H-thymidine uptake by autologous but not allogeneic bone marrow. Absorption of the patients' sera with allogeneic polymorphonuclear leukocytes, autologous polymorphonuclear leukocytes, or autologous lymphocytes removed the drug-dependent inhibitory activity, but absorption with allogeneic lymphocytes did not. These data are most consistent with the presence of a noncomplement dependent antibody capable of suppressing granulopoiesis, mediating peripheral destruction of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and cross-reacting with a lymphocyte antigen of limited population distribution.", "PMID": 454851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11404", "title": "Monoclonal immunoglobulin rescue from a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.", "content": "In order to test whether autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia was due to autoantibody production by the neoplastic clone, somatic cell hybrids were constructed between the patient's leukemic cells and a mouse myeloma line. Light-chain-restricted human immunoglobulin was secreted by 4 of 11 of the established hybrid lines. No binding of this immunoglobulin to red cell surface antigens could be detected. Thus, we conclude that the autoantibody in this patient represented a concomitant reactive response and was not the product of the malignant clone of B cells.", "contents": "Monoclonal immunoglobulin rescue from a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and autoimmune hemolytic anemia. In order to test whether autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia was due to autoantibody production by the neoplastic clone, somatic cell hybrids were constructed between the patient's leukemic cells and a mouse myeloma line. Light-chain-restricted human immunoglobulin was secreted by 4 of 11 of the established hybrid lines. No binding of this immunoglobulin to red cell surface antigens could be detected. Thus, we conclude that the autoantibody in this patient represented a concomitant reactive response and was not the product of the malignant clone of B cells.", "PMID": 454852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11405", "title": "Lipopolysaccharide responsiveness of malignant lymphoid cells in a patient with hairy cell leukemia.", "content": "The malignant cells in a patient with hairy cell leukemia responded most evidently to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in in vitro culture for 3 1/2 days when the conventional tritiated thymidine uptake method was used. Since the malignant cells from patients with several other forms of leukemia and the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy individuals did not show a comparable degree of responsiveness to LPS, we could exclude the possibility that this response was due to effects on contaminating normal mononuclear cells or to the nonspecific conditioning effect through LPS-affected contaminating normal monocytes. Morphological changes were observed with photo- and electronmicroscopy. It is likely that the hairy cells from the patient did respond to LPS, and whether or not this phenomenon may be confined to this type of lymphoid leukemia is not being investigated.", "contents": "Lipopolysaccharide responsiveness of malignant lymphoid cells in a patient with hairy cell leukemia. The malignant cells in a patient with hairy cell leukemia responded most evidently to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in in vitro culture for 3 1/2 days when the conventional tritiated thymidine uptake method was used. Since the malignant cells from patients with several other forms of leukemia and the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy individuals did not show a comparable degree of responsiveness to LPS, we could exclude the possibility that this response was due to effects on contaminating normal mononuclear cells or to the nonspecific conditioning effect through LPS-affected contaminating normal monocytes. Morphological changes were observed with photo- and electronmicroscopy. It is likely that the hairy cells from the patient did respond to LPS, and whether or not this phenomenon may be confined to this type of lymphoid leukemia is not being investigated.", "PMID": 454853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11406", "title": "Clonal growth of metastatic carcinoma of bronchus in bone marrow culture.", "content": "Bone marrow cells from a 35-yr-old male with small cell anaplastic carcinoma of the bronchus and bone marrow metastases were cultured in semisolid agar. Numerous small clones grew in the cultures, with a similar gross appearance to clones produced by cell from a proportion of patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Examination of the cells from these clones by electron microscopy revealed marked differences between these cells and cells grown in cultures from normal and acute myeloid leukemia marrow. This suggests that metastatic cells of the anaplastic carcinoma of the bronchus grew in clones in the agar culture system.", "contents": "Clonal growth of metastatic carcinoma of bronchus in bone marrow culture. Bone marrow cells from a 35-yr-old male with small cell anaplastic carcinoma of the bronchus and bone marrow metastases were cultured in semisolid agar. Numerous small clones grew in the cultures, with a similar gross appearance to clones produced by cell from a proportion of patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Examination of the cells from these clones by electron microscopy revealed marked differences between these cells and cells grown in cultures from normal and acute myeloid leukemia marrow. This suggests that metastatic cells of the anaplastic carcinoma of the bronchus grew in clones in the agar culture system.", "PMID": 454854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11407", "title": "The role of sodium and potassium ions in the contractile response and development of tachyphylaxis to angiotensin II on vascular smooth muscle.", "content": "The role of sodium and potassium ions, and the possible involvement of the membrane sodium pump has been studied in the development of a contractile response to, and the development of tachyphylaxis to, angiotensin II. It is suggested that a membrane depolarization may have a role in the mechanism of the contractile response to angiotensin II, as responses of the rabbit aorta to angiotensin II were selectively inhibited in K-free medium. Acute or chronic increases in medium sodium, however, did not influence the response of the rabbit aorta to angiotensin II. On the rat aorta increased medium sodium concentrations potentiated the response to angiotensin II and inhibited the development of tachyphylaxis. Membrane depolarization or hyperpolarization does not appear to be part of the mechanism of development of tachyphylaxis to angiotensin II on the rat aorta, as response to both NE and angiotensin II were inhibited equally by exposure of the rat aorta to K-free medium, i.e., nonspecific desensitization occurred, as opposed to the specific desensitization which defines tachyphylaxis.", "contents": "The role of sodium and potassium ions in the contractile response and development of tachyphylaxis to angiotensin II on vascular smooth muscle. The role of sodium and potassium ions, and the possible involvement of the membrane sodium pump has been studied in the development of a contractile response to, and the development of tachyphylaxis to, angiotensin II. It is suggested that a membrane depolarization may have a role in the mechanism of the contractile response to angiotensin II, as responses of the rabbit aorta to angiotensin II were selectively inhibited in K-free medium. Acute or chronic increases in medium sodium, however, did not influence the response of the rabbit aorta to angiotensin II. On the rat aorta increased medium sodium concentrations potentiated the response to angiotensin II and inhibited the development of tachyphylaxis. Membrane depolarization or hyperpolarization does not appear to be part of the mechanism of development of tachyphylaxis to angiotensin II on the rat aorta, as response to both NE and angiotensin II were inhibited equally by exposure of the rat aorta to K-free medium, i.e., nonspecific desensitization occurred, as opposed to the specific desensitization which defines tachyphylaxis.", "PMID": 454855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11408", "title": "L-ascorbic acid: effects on aortic glycosaminoglycan 35S incorporation in rabbit-induced atherogenesis.", "content": "The effects of L-ascorbic acid on 35S-incorporation into thoracic aorta glycosaminoglycans and upon aorta cholesterol levels were determined in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. No significant difference was observed in serum free or esterified cholesterol levels between animals receiving L-ascorbic acid supplementation or saline while maintained on a cholesterol diet (0.5%). A 15-fold higher serum cholesterol was observed in animals on the cholesterol diet to those animals which received a normal rabbit (Purina) diet. L-Ascorbic acid increased sulfated glycosaminoglycans concentrations in hypercholesterolemic rabbits which paralleled lower tissue free and esterified cholesterol levels. The 35S-specific activity of glycosaminoglycans in hypercholesterolemic animals receiving saline was much greater than in those animals receiving L-ascorbic acid. This suggests that L-ascorbic acid plays a role in the maintenance of adequate levels of aortic sulfated glycosaminoglycans. This then is a suggested biochemical mechanism of L-ascorbic acids interaction in the atherogenic process.", "contents": "L-ascorbic acid: effects on aortic glycosaminoglycan 35S incorporation in rabbit-induced atherogenesis. The effects of L-ascorbic acid on 35S-incorporation into thoracic aorta glycosaminoglycans and upon aorta cholesterol levels were determined in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. No significant difference was observed in serum free or esterified cholesterol levels between animals receiving L-ascorbic acid supplementation or saline while maintained on a cholesterol diet (0.5%). A 15-fold higher serum cholesterol was observed in animals on the cholesterol diet to those animals which received a normal rabbit (Purina) diet. L-Ascorbic acid increased sulfated glycosaminoglycans concentrations in hypercholesterolemic rabbits which paralleled lower tissue free and esterified cholesterol levels. The 35S-specific activity of glycosaminoglycans in hypercholesterolemic animals receiving saline was much greater than in those animals receiving L-ascorbic acid. This suggests that L-ascorbic acid plays a role in the maintenance of adequate levels of aortic sulfated glycosaminoglycans. This then is a suggested biochemical mechanism of L-ascorbic acids interaction in the atherogenic process.", "PMID": 454856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11409", "title": "Action potential generation in reaggregates of rat aortic smooth muscle cells in primary culture.", "content": "Cultured vascular smooth muscle cells were prepared from adult rat aortas. The cells were dispersed by collagenase/elastase, and allowed to reaggregate into small spheres (50-200 micron in diameter) by plating on to cellophane. These primary cultures were incubated for 5-14 days, and then impaled with microelectrodes. The mean resting potential was -55 mV, and the mean input resistance was 9.0 M omega. The cells were quiescent, electrically and mechanically, and electrical stimulation usually did not elicit responses. However, addition of Ba++ (1 mM) or tetraehtylammonium ion (TEA; 5-15 mM) induced excitability (with accompanying contractions), either as spontaneous action potentials or by allowing responses to electrical stimulation. The cells became partially depolarized (e.g., to -36 mV) by these agents, and the input resistance increased. The frequency of spontaneous firing of the Ba++-induced spikes was affected by polarizing current pulses, as expected for pacemaker behavior. Elevation of Ca++ in the bathing solution increased the amplitude (overshoot) of the action potentials, and the spikes were blocked by verapamil (10(-5) M). Electron microscopy showed that the reaggregates consisted of a tight packing of elongated small-diameter cells, some of which exhibited thick and thin myofilaments and 'dense bodies'; many cells possessed surface caveolae. The results of this study demonstrate that reaggregates of arterial smooth muscle in primary culture can maintain functional and morphological characteristics of intact arterial smooth muscle, and therefore provide a useful preparation for the study of vascular smooth muscle function and control.", "contents": "Action potential generation in reaggregates of rat aortic smooth muscle cells in primary culture. Cultured vascular smooth muscle cells were prepared from adult rat aortas. The cells were dispersed by collagenase/elastase, and allowed to reaggregate into small spheres (50-200 micron in diameter) by plating on to cellophane. These primary cultures were incubated for 5-14 days, and then impaled with microelectrodes. The mean resting potential was -55 mV, and the mean input resistance was 9.0 M omega. The cells were quiescent, electrically and mechanically, and electrical stimulation usually did not elicit responses. However, addition of Ba++ (1 mM) or tetraehtylammonium ion (TEA; 5-15 mM) induced excitability (with accompanying contractions), either as spontaneous action potentials or by allowing responses to electrical stimulation. The cells became partially depolarized (e.g., to -36 mV) by these agents, and the input resistance increased. The frequency of spontaneous firing of the Ba++-induced spikes was affected by polarizing current pulses, as expected for pacemaker behavior. Elevation of Ca++ in the bathing solution increased the amplitude (overshoot) of the action potentials, and the spikes were blocked by verapamil (10(-5) M). Electron microscopy showed that the reaggregates consisted of a tight packing of elongated small-diameter cells, some of which exhibited thick and thin myofilaments and 'dense bodies'; many cells possessed surface caveolae. The results of this study demonstrate that reaggregates of arterial smooth muscle in primary culture can maintain functional and morphological characteristics of intact arterial smooth muscle, and therefore provide a useful preparation for the study of vascular smooth muscle function and control.", "PMID": 454857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11410", "title": "Transferring load to flesh: part IX. Cushion stiffness effects.", "content": "Stresses developed within flesh in contact with a cushion are examined analytically. Compressive, tensile, and shear stresses within flesh in proximity to a bone are given as a function of cushion stiffness (major parameter) and the overall Poisson's ratio of flesh (minor parameter). It is shown that an individual already sitting on a soft cushion receives relatively minor benefit when a still softer cushion is substituted. This result follows from the fairly flat (saturated) trend of both shear and tensile stress with respect to cushion stiffness, once the soft cushion domain (less than 10 PSI) is entered. Only flesh normal stress (compression) responds significantly to incremental changes of stiffness within the soft cushion range; reducing the cushion stiffness 50 percent will typically reduce local compressive stress by roughly 20 percent. While such a gain is real, it is also modest.", "contents": "Transferring load to flesh: part IX. Cushion stiffness effects. Stresses developed within flesh in contact with a cushion are examined analytically. Compressive, tensile, and shear stresses within flesh in proximity to a bone are given as a function of cushion stiffness (major parameter) and the overall Poisson's ratio of flesh (minor parameter). It is shown that an individual already sitting on a soft cushion receives relatively minor benefit when a still softer cushion is substituted. This result follows from the fairly flat (saturated) trend of both shear and tensile stress with respect to cushion stiffness, once the soft cushion domain (less than 10 PSI) is entered. Only flesh normal stress (compression) responds significantly to incremental changes of stiffness within the soft cushion range; reducing the cushion stiffness 50 percent will typically reduce local compressive stress by roughly 20 percent. While such a gain is real, it is also modest.", "PMID": 454873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11411", "title": "Locomotion assistance through cane impulse.", "content": "The extent of locomotion assistance gained through cane usage by those with hip disorders is assayed. Employing as a standard the propulsive impulse delivered by each lower limb of a healthy young male, the cane is shown to supply about one-fifth the equivalent impulse, aside from other possible benefits. Full test values are given for nine handicapped subjects.", "contents": "Locomotion assistance through cane impulse. The extent of locomotion assistance gained through cane usage by those with hip disorders is assayed. Employing as a standard the propulsive impulse delivered by each lower limb of a healthy young male, the cane is shown to supply about one-fifth the equivalent impulse, aside from other possible benefits. Full test values are given for nine handicapped subjects.", "PMID": 454874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11412", "title": "[Motivation factors for smoking in adolescents].", "content": "The study reports on the motivations of tobacco consumption in various populations of youths in North-Switzerland. A questionnaire obtained from 1436 school-children in the Cantons of Zurich and St. Gall indicated that 9% of the boys and 3% of the girls have tried their first \"curiosity-cigarette\" before age 6. Among 400 female students of nursing there were 32% smokers, and one of four was smoking more than 20 cigarettes per day. In boarding schools the smoking habits varied according to pedagogic influences. Boys from farming families originating from East-Switzerland were smoking at a rate of 23% between ages 17-21. Girls of similar origin and age were smoking in 14% of the cases. Apprentices of the same age working in the metal industry of the city of Zurich were smoking in 55%, boys from High Schools in 30% of the cases. There were 17% of abstinents from alcohol among non-smokers as compared to 2% among smokers representing a significant difference. In High School-students from Berne there were 23% of smokers as compared to 3% of non-smokers with previous experience with hard drugs. The results of a Health Education Program conducted during three years as a longterm intervention demonstrated that tobacco consumption was significantly reduced in test groups as compared to controls.", "contents": "[Motivation factors for smoking in adolescents]. The study reports on the motivations of tobacco consumption in various populations of youths in North-Switzerland. A questionnaire obtained from 1436 school-children in the Cantons of Zurich and St. Gall indicated that 9% of the boys and 3% of the girls have tried their first \"curiosity-cigarette\" before age 6. Among 400 female students of nursing there were 32% smokers, and one of four was smoking more than 20 cigarettes per day. In boarding schools the smoking habits varied according to pedagogic influences. Boys from farming families originating from East-Switzerland were smoking at a rate of 23% between ages 17-21. Girls of similar origin and age were smoking in 14% of the cases. Apprentices of the same age working in the metal industry of the city of Zurich were smoking in 55%, boys from High Schools in 30% of the cases. There were 17% of abstinents from alcohol among non-smokers as compared to 2% among smokers representing a significant difference. In High School-students from Berne there were 23% of smokers as compared to 3% of non-smokers with previous experience with hard drugs. The results of a Health Education Program conducted during three years as a longterm intervention demonstrated that tobacco consumption was significantly reduced in test groups as compared to controls.", "PMID": 454875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11413", "title": "[Health education: prevention of smoking].", "content": "With the aim of primary prevention, the Health Education Service of Geneva organizes in all schools since 1970, an information campaign against the dangers of smoking! The objectives of this preventive action are to render the pupils conscient of the dangers of smoking, to draw their attention on the lures of advertisement and to permit them to make a personal opinion on the subject. This information is given in primary and secondary schools by the teachers who receive the necessary audio-visual equipment from the Health Education Service. In the higher degrees, this information is integrated in a regular health teaching program. All future teachers also receive an \"anti-smoking\" information given by doctors of our Department. We hope that this form of objective and scientific instruction in schools will minimise the effects of publicity, making the young people aware of the risks they encounter.", "contents": "[Health education: prevention of smoking]. With the aim of primary prevention, the Health Education Service of Geneva organizes in all schools since 1970, an information campaign against the dangers of smoking! The objectives of this preventive action are to render the pupils conscient of the dangers of smoking, to draw their attention on the lures of advertisement and to permit them to make a personal opinion on the subject. This information is given in primary and secondary schools by the teachers who receive the necessary audio-visual equipment from the Health Education Service. In the higher degrees, this information is integrated in a regular health teaching program. All future teachers also receive an \"anti-smoking\" information given by doctors of our Department. We hope that this form of objective and scientific instruction in schools will minimise the effects of publicity, making the young people aware of the risks they encounter.", "PMID": 454876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11414", "title": "Effectiveness of measures against smoking.", "content": "The objective of a program to control cigarette smoking is to reduce illness and early mortality. This requires a) reducing the taking up of smoking, b) increasing the giving up of smoking, c) reducing the dosage of harmful substances received by the smoker, and d) protecting the non-smoker. Such a program requires both an educational effort and a management approach. The success of past educational efforts has changed the nature of current efforts from an emphasis on persuading people to stop smoking to an emphasis on encouraging those who have been unsuccessful to try again, to assist them, and to use dosage reduction as an alternative to quitting. Managerial efforts most promising are the gradual reduction of harmful substances in the smoke, economic disincentives, and limitations of smoking in public places, thereby protecting both the smoker and the non-smoker.", "contents": "Effectiveness of measures against smoking. The objective of a program to control cigarette smoking is to reduce illness and early mortality. This requires a) reducing the taking up of smoking, b) increasing the giving up of smoking, c) reducing the dosage of harmful substances received by the smoker, and d) protecting the non-smoker. Such a program requires both an educational effort and a management approach. The success of past educational efforts has changed the nature of current efforts from an emphasis on persuading people to stop smoking to an emphasis on encouraging those who have been unsuccessful to try again, to assist them, and to use dosage reduction as an alternative to quitting. Managerial efforts most promising are the gradual reduction of harmful substances in the smoke, economic disincentives, and limitations of smoking in public places, thereby protecting both the smoker and the non-smoker.", "PMID": 454877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11415", "title": "[The effect of tobacco and alcohol on pregnancy course and child development].", "content": "Smoking during pregnancy may cause small-for-date babies, severeness and frequency depending on the number of cigarettes per day. Regular and heavy smoking appearently increases perinatal mortality. A similar correlation and additionally an increased rate of newborns with major abnormalities was observed when the father regularly smoked 10 and more cigarettes per day, even then when the mother was a non-smoker. The mechanism involved is unclear. Based upon present information one may favour the view that smoking of the father impairs spermiogenesis rather than \"passive\" smoking of the mother. Regular intake of liquor by the mother is well correlated with a shortened duration of pregnancy--that means an increased rate of abortion and prematurity. The consequences and responsibilities in the frame of family planning and prenatal care are discussed. The results referred to were attained mainly by a prospective study \"Course of pregnancy and child development\" supported by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft).", "contents": "[The effect of tobacco and alcohol on pregnancy course and child development]. Smoking during pregnancy may cause small-for-date babies, severeness and frequency depending on the number of cigarettes per day. Regular and heavy smoking appearently increases perinatal mortality. A similar correlation and additionally an increased rate of newborns with major abnormalities was observed when the father regularly smoked 10 and more cigarettes per day, even then when the mother was a non-smoker. The mechanism involved is unclear. Based upon present information one may favour the view that smoking of the father impairs spermiogenesis rather than \"passive\" smoking of the mother. Regular intake of liquor by the mother is well correlated with a shortened duration of pregnancy--that means an increased rate of abortion and prematurity. The consequences and responsibilities in the frame of family planning and prenatal care are discussed. The results referred to were attained mainly by a prospective study \"Course of pregnancy and child development\" supported by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft).", "PMID": 454878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11416", "title": "[Fetal alcohol syndrome].", "content": "The author presents cases of dysmorphic children born to alcoholic mothers to illustrate his discussion of the \"fetal alcohol syndrome\". The fact that this malformative syndrome has not been recognized before 1968 is amazing, particularly if one considers the high frequency of alcohol addiction and the relative specificity of the birth defects making up the syndrome. Newborns from severely alcoholic mothers are small for date, microcephalic, and they have abnormal facial features, as well as an increased frequency of other malformations (heart, genitalia, extremities). Neurological and mental deficiencies are recognized early in most of these children. Central nervous system anomalies are beginning to be described by the neuropathologists, which correspond to these clinical findings.", "contents": "[Fetal alcohol syndrome]. The author presents cases of dysmorphic children born to alcoholic mothers to illustrate his discussion of the \"fetal alcohol syndrome\". The fact that this malformative syndrome has not been recognized before 1968 is amazing, particularly if one considers the high frequency of alcohol addiction and the relative specificity of the birth defects making up the syndrome. Newborns from severely alcoholic mothers are small for date, microcephalic, and they have abnormal facial features, as well as an increased frequency of other malformations (heart, genitalia, extremities). Neurological and mental deficiencies are recognized early in most of these children. Central nervous system anomalies are beginning to be described by the neuropathologists, which correspond to these clinical findings.", "PMID": 454879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11417", "title": "[Association of tobacco and alcohol in cancer].", "content": "Heavy drinking and heavy smoking are often associated; the effects of either alcohol and tobacco on human cancer can not be easily disentangled. Appropriate adjustments need to be made to pinpoint the role of either factor. Both smoking and drinking play a role in cancer of the buccal cavity, pharynx and oesophagus; they seem to multiply their effects. Cancer of the larynx is also related to both alcohol and tobacco, but the role of alcohol appears only when exposure to tobacco is also present. While tobacco smoke is known to contain carcinogens, the mechanisms by which alcohol provoke cancer remain obscure; it may act by facilitating the penetration of carcinogens in the mucosa-carcinogens might be present in some alcoholic beverages; a direct action of ethanol can not be excluded. Epidemiological evidence is clear enough, however, to predict a substantial drop of incidence of buccal, pharyngeal, oesophageal and laryngeal cancers if alcohol and tobacco consumption could be reduced.", "contents": "[Association of tobacco and alcohol in cancer]. Heavy drinking and heavy smoking are often associated; the effects of either alcohol and tobacco on human cancer can not be easily disentangled. Appropriate adjustments need to be made to pinpoint the role of either factor. Both smoking and drinking play a role in cancer of the buccal cavity, pharynx and oesophagus; they seem to multiply their effects. Cancer of the larynx is also related to both alcohol and tobacco, but the role of alcohol appears only when exposure to tobacco is also present. While tobacco smoke is known to contain carcinogens, the mechanisms by which alcohol provoke cancer remain obscure; it may act by facilitating the penetration of carcinogens in the mucosa-carcinogens might be present in some alcoholic beverages; a direct action of ethanol can not be excluded. Epidemiological evidence is clear enough, however, to predict a substantial drop of incidence of buccal, pharyngeal, oesophageal and laryngeal cancers if alcohol and tobacco consumption could be reduced.", "PMID": 454880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11418", "title": "[Pathobiochemistry of alcoholism].", "content": "Liver alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) represents the main enzyme of normal alcohol metabolism. Total activity of this enzyme varies largely due to the occurrence of isoenzymes and of genetic polymorphisms. One genetic variant, called \"atypical\", is characterized by a higher specific activity. In carriers of this variant enzyme an initially faster rate of ethanol metabolism leads to higher blood acetaldehyde levels. Acetaldehyde, as a toxic intermediary metabolite, causes tachycardia, nausea and flushing of the face. A high frequency for \"atypical\" ADH is observed in mongolid races and consequently a hypersensitivity to alcohol is often observed in Orientals. Hence, certain genetically determined enzyme patterns may represent an aversive factor with regard to alcohol consumption. In Caucasians the phenotypes with \"atypical\" ADH are less frequent. However, in individuals with the \"atypical\" variant regular intake of alcohol may lead to an increased organotoxicity due to acetaldehyde.", "contents": "[Pathobiochemistry of alcoholism]. Liver alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) represents the main enzyme of normal alcohol metabolism. Total activity of this enzyme varies largely due to the occurrence of isoenzymes and of genetic polymorphisms. One genetic variant, called \"atypical\", is characterized by a higher specific activity. In carriers of this variant enzyme an initially faster rate of ethanol metabolism leads to higher blood acetaldehyde levels. Acetaldehyde, as a toxic intermediary metabolite, causes tachycardia, nausea and flushing of the face. A high frequency for \"atypical\" ADH is observed in mongolid races and consequently a hypersensitivity to alcohol is often observed in Orientals. Hence, certain genetically determined enzyme patterns may represent an aversive factor with regard to alcohol consumption. In Caucasians the phenotypes with \"atypical\" ADH are less frequent. However, in individuals with the \"atypical\" variant regular intake of alcohol may lead to an increased organotoxicity due to acetaldehyde.", "PMID": 454882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11419", "title": "[Early recognition and diagnosis of alcoholism].", "content": "The starting point is a discussion of the definition of alcoholism in its various aspects: somatic, psychic and social sequelae, loss of control, amount of alcohol consumption. The clinical approach is oriented on target symptoms (\"Leitsymptome\") followed by a search for details of symptoms of alcoholism. Diagnostic tests for alcoholism and their problems are discussed. Examples of these tests are described, especially the Munich Alcoholism-Test (MALT).", "contents": "[Early recognition and diagnosis of alcoholism]. The starting point is a discussion of the definition of alcoholism in its various aspects: somatic, psychic and social sequelae, loss of control, amount of alcohol consumption. The clinical approach is oriented on target symptoms (\"Leitsymptome\") followed by a search for details of symptoms of alcoholism. Diagnostic tests for alcoholism and their problems are discussed. Examples of these tests are described, especially the Munich Alcoholism-Test (MALT).", "PMID": 454883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11420", "title": "[Alcoholism and driving ability].", "content": "Utilizing reports of expert opinions issued by the Unit of Traffic Medicine and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Geneva (908 cases between 1965 and 1977), the authors evaluate the different levels of estimates on driving ability in chronic alcoholics (46 cases). Diagnosis of chronic alcoholism is sometimes difficult. It is necessary that the medical experts get in touch with the family physician and with the neighbourhood of the patient reported. The authors demonstrate that the conclusions of these reports frequently include restrictions regarding limited driving permission or a limitation to a permit for a learner's drivers license.", "contents": "[Alcoholism and driving ability]. Utilizing reports of expert opinions issued by the Unit of Traffic Medicine and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Geneva (908 cases between 1965 and 1977), the authors evaluate the different levels of estimates on driving ability in chronic alcoholics (46 cases). Diagnosis of chronic alcoholism is sometimes difficult. It is necessary that the medical experts get in touch with the family physician and with the neighbourhood of the patient reported. The authors demonstrate that the conclusions of these reports frequently include restrictions regarding limited driving permission or a limitation to a permit for a learner's drivers license.", "PMID": 454884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11421", "title": "[Intoxication at the wheel].", "content": "A large body of experimental and statistical evidence demonstrates that even mild alcohol intoxication with blood alcohol concentrations above 0,5% is associated with a significantly increase in the susceptibility for an accident. The lowering of the critical concentration limit is indicated from a medical, social-political and economical point of view.", "contents": "[Intoxication at the wheel]. A large body of experimental and statistical evidence demonstrates that even mild alcohol intoxication with blood alcohol concentrations above 0,5% is associated with a significantly increase in the susceptibility for an accident. The lowering of the critical concentration limit is indicated from a medical, social-political and economical point of view.", "PMID": 454885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11422", "title": "[Drinking behavior in Switzerland].", "content": "The results of a broad survey of drinking behaviour in Switzerland are reported. It is based on a questionnaire considered to be representative obtained from 1500 residents of Switzerland between 15 and 74 years of age. The study confirms previous findings that, similar as in other countries, alcohol consumption in Switzerland is distributed in the population as a logarithmic curve. The results demonstrate that the alcohol consumed in amounts which are considered to be dangerous to health (daily consumption of pure alcohol: 80 grams and more) was found to be 30% of total consumption in German and French Switzerland, and 47% in Italian Switzerland respectively. In contrast to other countries there is no predominance of particular beverages, but there are some clear-cut preferences for certain beverages in certain areas within the country. The study further demonstrates that in areas with higher average consumption a higher percentage of heavy consumers is found; this is particularly the case for French and Italian Switzerland. Moreover, a higher average consumption is associated with an increase in mortality rates from alcohol-related cirrhosis of the liver. The relationship between regional average consumption and mortality rates from cirrhosis indicates not a linear, but an exponential increase of the latter with rising consumption. It was found that the following social-demographic variables are significantly associated with the prevalence to drinking: sex, age, income and education.", "contents": "[Drinking behavior in Switzerland]. The results of a broad survey of drinking behaviour in Switzerland are reported. It is based on a questionnaire considered to be representative obtained from 1500 residents of Switzerland between 15 and 74 years of age. The study confirms previous findings that, similar as in other countries, alcohol consumption in Switzerland is distributed in the population as a logarithmic curve. The results demonstrate that the alcohol consumed in amounts which are considered to be dangerous to health (daily consumption of pure alcohol: 80 grams and more) was found to be 30% of total consumption in German and French Switzerland, and 47% in Italian Switzerland respectively. In contrast to other countries there is no predominance of particular beverages, but there are some clear-cut preferences for certain beverages in certain areas within the country. The study further demonstrates that in areas with higher average consumption a higher percentage of heavy consumers is found; this is particularly the case for French and Italian Switzerland. Moreover, a higher average consumption is associated with an increase in mortality rates from alcohol-related cirrhosis of the liver. The relationship between regional average consumption and mortality rates from cirrhosis indicates not a linear, but an exponential increase of the latter with rising consumption. It was found that the following social-demographic variables are significantly associated with the prevalence to drinking: sex, age, income and education.", "PMID": 454886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11423", "title": "[Medico-psycho-social rehabilitation of alcoholics: a multidisciplinary approach].", "content": "In heavy problem drinkers with loss of control and severe disruptive behavioral disorders, the general practitioner cannot offer a comprehensive program coping with all the disturbed parameters: those of the individual, the family, the friends, the working and leisure time environment. In these situations a multidisciplinary team approach is very helpful. A close collaboration between physician, nurse, social worker and psychologist enables the team to implement the comprehensive program in a more efficient way and with the active participation of the patient, his family and social environment. In this paper the author deals with the inner structure of the team model. Today there is a shifting from the traditional \"paternalistic team model\" (i.e. medical leadership) toward a more democratic team structure as a result of emancipatory pressures from the social work profession. The author presents a critical view of extreme emancipatory tendencies aiming at abolishing the disease concept of alcoholism and the team members professional identity as well as the role differences between therapist and client. The professional rehabilitation model is compared with the Alcoholics Anonymous self help model, and possibilities and limits of an interdisciplinary cooperation between the two approaches are stressed.", "contents": "[Medico-psycho-social rehabilitation of alcoholics: a multidisciplinary approach]. In heavy problem drinkers with loss of control and severe disruptive behavioral disorders, the general practitioner cannot offer a comprehensive program coping with all the disturbed parameters: those of the individual, the family, the friends, the working and leisure time environment. In these situations a multidisciplinary team approach is very helpful. A close collaboration between physician, nurse, social worker and psychologist enables the team to implement the comprehensive program in a more efficient way and with the active participation of the patient, his family and social environment. In this paper the author deals with the inner structure of the team model. Today there is a shifting from the traditional \"paternalistic team model\" (i.e. medical leadership) toward a more democratic team structure as a result of emancipatory pressures from the social work profession. The author presents a critical view of extreme emancipatory tendencies aiming at abolishing the disease concept of alcoholism and the team members professional identity as well as the role differences between therapist and client. The professional rehabilitation model is compared with the Alcoholics Anonymous self help model, and possibilities and limits of an interdisciplinary cooperation between the two approaches are stressed.", "PMID": 454887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11424", "title": "[Alcoholism in the young].", "content": "The ideas on alcoholism have somehow changed during these last years. In the past, ideas were axed mainly on the individual causes of alcoholism; today we are more interested on the sociocultural factors. Statistics prove, on the other hand, that there is a considerable increase of alcoholism by the youth. Young people begin earlier ordinary consumption of alcohol, or take alcohol with drugs, or replace hard drugs by alcohol. It is very urgent to study this new phenomenon, and to think about new structures, in order to take care of the victims of this new pathology.", "contents": "[Alcoholism in the young]. The ideas on alcoholism have somehow changed during these last years. In the past, ideas were axed mainly on the individual causes of alcoholism; today we are more interested on the sociocultural factors. Statistics prove, on the other hand, that there is a considerable increase of alcoholism by the youth. Young people begin earlier ordinary consumption of alcohol, or take alcohol with drugs, or replace hard drugs by alcohol. It is very urgent to study this new phenomenon, and to think about new structures, in order to take care of the victims of this new pathology.", "PMID": 454888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11425", "title": "[Sociocultural requirements for alcohol and tobacco education measures].", "content": "If behaviour changes are taken as a criteria for the effectiveness of alcohol and tobacco education, the results of evaluation research are not encouraging. The unefficiency of alcohol and tobacco education is considered to be caused on the one hand by a too limited concept of education applied to teaching programmes. On the other hand a number of antagonisms between educators and pupils result from not taking into consideration sociocultural facts. At the outset, these antagonisms bring about the failure of measures for alcohol and tobacco education. A number of postulates to overcome the contradictions between educational aims and the expectations of pupils are discussed.", "contents": "[Sociocultural requirements for alcohol and tobacco education measures]. If behaviour changes are taken as a criteria for the effectiveness of alcohol and tobacco education, the results of evaluation research are not encouraging. The unefficiency of alcohol and tobacco education is considered to be caused on the one hand by a too limited concept of education applied to teaching programmes. On the other hand a number of antagonisms between educators and pupils result from not taking into consideration sociocultural facts. At the outset, these antagonisms bring about the failure of measures for alcohol and tobacco education. A number of postulates to overcome the contradictions between educational aims and the expectations of pupils are discussed.", "PMID": 454889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11426", "title": "[Evaluation of measures to reduce cigarette consumption in Switzerland].", "content": "Policy instruments were examined to reduce cigarette consumption in Switzerland. The results can be summarised in two points: a) Tax increases and anti-smoking publicity (health education) are effective measures to reduce cigarette smoking. The effect is especially pronounced when both instruments are combined. b) The effect of a ban on advertising could not be examined for Switzerland due to lack of data. Results of studies abroad lead to the assumption that cigarette consumption can be influenced more by the tobacco tax and anti-smoking publicity than by a ban on advertising. This is by no means to say that such a ban would have no effect.", "contents": "[Evaluation of measures to reduce cigarette consumption in Switzerland]. Policy instruments were examined to reduce cigarette consumption in Switzerland. The results can be summarised in two points: a) Tax increases and anti-smoking publicity (health education) are effective measures to reduce cigarette smoking. The effect is especially pronounced when both instruments are combined. b) The effect of a ban on advertising could not be examined for Switzerland due to lack of data. Results of studies abroad lead to the assumption that cigarette consumption can be influenced more by the tobacco tax and anti-smoking publicity than by a ban on advertising. This is by no means to say that such a ban would have no effect.", "PMID": 454890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11427", "title": "[Tobacco, mortality and morbidity of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases--a prospective study in Paris].", "content": "In the Paris Prospective Study, after a 6,5 year follow-up, mortality and atherosclerotic disease incidence are studied according to the tobacco consumption measured at entry among 7746 middle-aged men in the same administrative group. Mortality is 3 times higher among smokers; the excess mortality of smokers concerns particularly cancers, especially cancers of the upper part of the digestive tube or lung cancers and coronary heart disease. The incidences of leg atherosclerosis and of hard coronary diseases increase very much with the quantity smoked and inhaled. The cigarette consumption is linked with the development of coronary diseases independently of other risk factors; it is taken into account in a five risk factor combination which gives the best estimation of individual risk of future disease. The theoretical effects of the reduction of cigarette consumption on the individual risk or on the incidence of coronary diseases are given. A multifactorial prevention with a small reduction of the level of several risk factors might reduce that incidence in the population.", "contents": "[Tobacco, mortality and morbidity of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases--a prospective study in Paris]. In the Paris Prospective Study, after a 6,5 year follow-up, mortality and atherosclerotic disease incidence are studied according to the tobacco consumption measured at entry among 7746 middle-aged men in the same administrative group. Mortality is 3 times higher among smokers; the excess mortality of smokers concerns particularly cancers, especially cancers of the upper part of the digestive tube or lung cancers and coronary heart disease. The incidences of leg atherosclerosis and of hard coronary diseases increase very much with the quantity smoked and inhaled. The cigarette consumption is linked with the development of coronary diseases independently of other risk factors; it is taken into account in a five risk factor combination which gives the best estimation of individual risk of future disease. The theoretical effects of the reduction of cigarette consumption on the individual risk or on the incidence of coronary diseases are given. A multifactorial prevention with a small reduction of the level of several risk factors might reduce that incidence in the population.", "PMID": 454893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11428", "title": "[Smoking and mortality in Swiss physicians: results of an 18-year survey].", "content": "A prospective mortality study of tobacco smoking of Swiss physicians is reported over a period of 18 years (1955-1973). The mortality rate increases with the intensity of the daily smoking quantity, going till to the double of non-smokers. This elevation is not seen in late smokers. Contrary to the habits of English doctors, who smoke mostly cigarettes, in Switzerland the death rates of cigars (mostly Stumpen) and pipe smokers are as much elevated as for cigarette smokers. In intensive smokers the mortality reached for all 3 the same rate (2,4-2,6). Under the various causes of death lung cancer was only seen in smokers (92,5% intensive smokers). Heart infarctions death has in smokers the highest rate in the age of 35-54 years, going back till 75 years where the death rate is nearly the same as in non-smokers. The passover in mortality of the intensive smokers in full activity of life is documentated by the statistic of Swiss Doctors. Therefore it is a positive factor that in the last 18 years the number of cigarette-smokers in physicians declined from 37% to 21% and the number of past-smokers has gone up from 17 to 38%, but the number of only cigars and pipesmokers is always the same.", "contents": "[Smoking and mortality in Swiss physicians: results of an 18-year survey]. A prospective mortality study of tobacco smoking of Swiss physicians is reported over a period of 18 years (1955-1973). The mortality rate increases with the intensity of the daily smoking quantity, going till to the double of non-smokers. This elevation is not seen in late smokers. Contrary to the habits of English doctors, who smoke mostly cigarettes, in Switzerland the death rates of cigars (mostly Stumpen) and pipe smokers are as much elevated as for cigarette smokers. In intensive smokers the mortality reached for all 3 the same rate (2,4-2,6). Under the various causes of death lung cancer was only seen in smokers (92,5% intensive smokers). Heart infarctions death has in smokers the highest rate in the age of 35-54 years, going back till 75 years where the death rate is nearly the same as in non-smokers. The passover in mortality of the intensive smokers in full activity of life is documentated by the statistic of Swiss Doctors. Therefore it is a positive factor that in the last 18 years the number of cigarette-smokers in physicians declined from 37% to 21% and the number of past-smokers has gone up from 17 to 38%, but the number of only cigars and pipesmokers is always the same.", "PMID": 454894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11429", "title": "[Passive smoking].", "content": "Passive smoking is the involuntary inspiration of smoky indoor air. Based on the information available today, it may be assumed that passive smoking normally is no health hazard as far as the classical smoker's diseases (lung cancer, myocardial infarct, etc.) are concerned. Nevertheless, it is probable that irritations caused by tobacco smoke have an unfavorable influence on the health of small children and that of already sick persons. The main problem of passive smoking is annoyance due to odor and irritations of eyes and respiratory organs. Our investigations in a climatic chamber with healthy subjects show that air pollution caused by tobacco smoke as indicated by 5 ppm CO leads to marked eye irritations--objectively as well as subjectively--in 15 to 20% of the subjects. This corresponds to smoking 10 cigarettes per hour in a small room with an air ventilation rate of four times per hour. If air pollution caused by tobacco smoke lies below the level of 2 ppm CO, irritations and annoyance for healthy persons are regarded as low and tolerable. This corresponds to about four cigarettes per hour under the same circumstances.", "contents": "[Passive smoking]. Passive smoking is the involuntary inspiration of smoky indoor air. Based on the information available today, it may be assumed that passive smoking normally is no health hazard as far as the classical smoker's diseases (lung cancer, myocardial infarct, etc.) are concerned. Nevertheless, it is probable that irritations caused by tobacco smoke have an unfavorable influence on the health of small children and that of already sick persons. The main problem of passive smoking is annoyance due to odor and irritations of eyes and respiratory organs. Our investigations in a climatic chamber with healthy subjects show that air pollution caused by tobacco smoke as indicated by 5 ppm CO leads to marked eye irritations--objectively as well as subjectively--in 15 to 20% of the subjects. This corresponds to smoking 10 cigarettes per hour in a small room with an air ventilation rate of four times per hour. If air pollution caused by tobacco smoke lies below the level of 2 ppm CO, irritations and annoyance for healthy persons are regarded as low and tolerable. This corresponds to about four cigarettes per hour under the same circumstances.", "PMID": 454896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11430", "title": "Comparison of the effects of a benzotriazinium iodide and quinidine on guinea-pig heart.", "content": "1 The actions of 2-n-propyl-4-p-tolylamino-1,2,3-benzotriazinium iodide (TnPBI) and quinidine were compared on guinea-pig heart preparations. 2 Quinidine had negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on guinea-pig isolated atria and on Langendorff hearts: TnPBI had negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on Langendorff hearts, but showed a positive inotropic effect on isolated atria at low dose levels. 3 Both quinidine and TnPBI increased the effective refractory period of guinea-pig atrial preparations. 4 The effects of TnPBI on transmembrane action potentials indicated a mixed class I and class III action according to the classification of Vaughan Williams (1970). 5 These effects are discussed in relation to the antiarrhythmic actions of TnPBI.", "contents": "Comparison of the effects of a benzotriazinium iodide and quinidine on guinea-pig heart. 1 The actions of 2-n-propyl-4-p-tolylamino-1,2,3-benzotriazinium iodide (TnPBI) and quinidine were compared on guinea-pig heart preparations. 2 Quinidine had negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on guinea-pig isolated atria and on Langendorff hearts: TnPBI had negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on Langendorff hearts, but showed a positive inotropic effect on isolated atria at low dose levels. 3 Both quinidine and TnPBI increased the effective refractory period of guinea-pig atrial preparations. 4 The effects of TnPBI on transmembrane action potentials indicated a mixed class I and class III action according to the classification of Vaughan Williams (1970). 5 These effects are discussed in relation to the antiarrhythmic actions of TnPBI.", "PMID": 454948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11431", "title": "Effects of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, 2.4-dinitrophenol and pentolinium tartrate on behavioural thermoregulation in mice.", "content": "1 A new apparatus in which mice are allowed to shuttle between the warm and cool parts of a continuous oval tunnel has been designed for the measurement of drug effects on behavioural thermoregulation.2 The length of time that untreated mice spent in the warmer part of the apparatus (tunnel wall temperature 38 degrees C) was found to be inversely related to the temperature of the cooler part (wall temperature 18 degrees , 24 degrees or 30 degrees C).3 Mice treated with 2,4-dinitrophenol at a dose known to be hyperthermic at an ambient temperature of 32 degrees C (20 mg/kg s.c.) spent an increased length of time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 18 degrees C) and did not exhibit any change in rectal temperature.4 Mice treated with pentolinium tartrate at a dose known to be hypothermic at room temperature (5.0 mg/kg i.v.) spent a decreased length of time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 24 degrees C) and did not exhibit any change in rectal temperature.5 It is concluded from the above results that the apparatus can be used to measure drug effects on behavioural thermoregulation.6 In experiments of 30 min duration, mice treated with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) at doses known to be hypothermic and to lower oxygen consumption at room temperature (20 mg/kg i.p. or 2.0 mg/kg i.v.) spent a longer time in the warmer part of the apparatus between 15 and 30 min after injection. Rectal temperatures measured 30 min after injection were only slightly less than those of control mice. In these experiments the wall temperature of the cool tunnel was 24 degrees C.7 In experiments of 15 min duration, mice treated with Delta(9)-THC (20 mg/kg) and then placed in the apparatus spent more time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 24 degrees C) and exhibited a large fall in rectal temperature.8 It is concluded that immediately after injection of Delta(9)-THC the mice do not attempt to oppose drug-induced falls in deep body temperature by moving into a warm environment and that only later do the animals demonstrate a preference for a warm environment.", "contents": "Effects of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, 2.4-dinitrophenol and pentolinium tartrate on behavioural thermoregulation in mice. 1 A new apparatus in which mice are allowed to shuttle between the warm and cool parts of a continuous oval tunnel has been designed for the measurement of drug effects on behavioural thermoregulation.2 The length of time that untreated mice spent in the warmer part of the apparatus (tunnel wall temperature 38 degrees C) was found to be inversely related to the temperature of the cooler part (wall temperature 18 degrees , 24 degrees or 30 degrees C).3 Mice treated with 2,4-dinitrophenol at a dose known to be hyperthermic at an ambient temperature of 32 degrees C (20 mg/kg s.c.) spent an increased length of time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 18 degrees C) and did not exhibit any change in rectal temperature.4 Mice treated with pentolinium tartrate at a dose known to be hypothermic at room temperature (5.0 mg/kg i.v.) spent a decreased length of time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 24 degrees C) and did not exhibit any change in rectal temperature.5 It is concluded from the above results that the apparatus can be used to measure drug effects on behavioural thermoregulation.6 In experiments of 30 min duration, mice treated with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) at doses known to be hypothermic and to lower oxygen consumption at room temperature (20 mg/kg i.p. or 2.0 mg/kg i.v.) spent a longer time in the warmer part of the apparatus between 15 and 30 min after injection. Rectal temperatures measured 30 min after injection were only slightly less than those of control mice. In these experiments the wall temperature of the cool tunnel was 24 degrees C.7 In experiments of 15 min duration, mice treated with Delta(9)-THC (20 mg/kg) and then placed in the apparatus spent more time in the cooler part of the apparatus (wall temperature 24 degrees C) and exhibited a large fall in rectal temperature.8 It is concluded that immediately after injection of Delta(9)-THC the mice do not attempt to oppose drug-induced falls in deep body temperature by moving into a warm environment and that only later do the animals demonstrate a preference for a warm environment.", "PMID": 454949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11432", "title": "An effect of haloperidol on the increased food and water intake induced in rabbits by 2-deoxy-D-glucose.", "content": "Rabbits treated with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) (300 mg/kg) show an increased intake of food and water. Pretreatment with haloperidol (1 mg/kg) abolishes the increase in water intake but does not prevent the increase in food intake.", "contents": "An effect of haloperidol on the increased food and water intake induced in rabbits by 2-deoxy-D-glucose. Rabbits treated with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) (300 mg/kg) show an increased intake of food and water. Pretreatment with haloperidol (1 mg/kg) abolishes the increase in water intake but does not prevent the increase in food intake.", "PMID": 454950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11433", "title": "Cardiovascular effects of hypertonic sodium chloride solutions when injected into the liquor space of anaesthetized cats.", "content": "1 In cats anaesthetized with chloralose, hyper- and hypotonic solutions were injected into the cisterna magna (in 0.5 ml) or into a lateral cerebral ventricle (in 0.2 to 0.3 ml), with aqueduct cannulated to prevent the injected solution from entering the subarachnoid space, and the effects on blood pressure and heart rate were examined. 2 Cisternal injections of hyper- and hypotonic solutions of NaCl (0.51 M and 0.05 M), glucose (1.03 M and 0.10 M), or sucrose (1.02 M and 0.10 M), as well as distilled water produced a rise in arterial blood pressure with tachycardias. Isotonic solutions of NaCl, glucose or sucrose were ineffective. 3 Ventricular injections of the hypertonic NaCl solution, also produced a pressor response with tachycardia effects when injected in this way. 4 The pressor responses and the tachycardias occurred after bilateral vagotomy and resulted from a sympathetic discharge which, on cisternal injection, originated from structures reached from the subarachnoid space, and on ventricular injection, from structures in the ventricular walls, probably in the hypothalamus. 5 The stimuli responsible for the discharge, were, on cisternal injection, the changes in osmolarity and on ventricular injection, the sodium ions.", "contents": "Cardiovascular effects of hypertonic sodium chloride solutions when injected into the liquor space of anaesthetized cats. 1 In cats anaesthetized with chloralose, hyper- and hypotonic solutions were injected into the cisterna magna (in 0.5 ml) or into a lateral cerebral ventricle (in 0.2 to 0.3 ml), with aqueduct cannulated to prevent the injected solution from entering the subarachnoid space, and the effects on blood pressure and heart rate were examined. 2 Cisternal injections of hyper- and hypotonic solutions of NaCl (0.51 M and 0.05 M), glucose (1.03 M and 0.10 M), or sucrose (1.02 M and 0.10 M), as well as distilled water produced a rise in arterial blood pressure with tachycardias. Isotonic solutions of NaCl, glucose or sucrose were ineffective. 3 Ventricular injections of the hypertonic NaCl solution, also produced a pressor response with tachycardia effects when injected in this way. 4 The pressor responses and the tachycardias occurred after bilateral vagotomy and resulted from a sympathetic discharge which, on cisternal injection, originated from structures reached from the subarachnoid space, and on ventricular injection, from structures in the ventricular walls, probably in the hypothalamus. 5 The stimuli responsible for the discharge, were, on cisternal injection, the changes in osmolarity and on ventricular injection, the sodium ions.", "PMID": 454951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11434", "title": "The effects of location, experiences with the civil disturbances and religion on death anxiety and manifest anxiety in a sample of Northern Ireland university students.", "content": "A total of 315 Northern Ireland university students were compared to 302 Republic of Ireland university students in terms of death anxiety, manifest anxiety, and perception of dangerousness of aspects of their environment and attitudes toward the civil disturbances in Northern Ireland. Also using these variables in the Northern Ireland sample, Protestants were compared to Catholics, those having had experiences with the disturbances were compared to those not having had such experiences, and those living in nominally dangerous areas of Belfast were compared to those living in nominally safer areas of Belfast. Students living in Northern Ireland had higher death anxiety and stronger fears than students living in the Republic. Those having had experiences with the civil violence had higher manifest anxiety and stronger fears than those not having has such experiences. Persons living in safe environments thought the disturbances to be more serious than those living in more dangerous environments, a result which is discussed in terms of the media and cognitive dissonance. Finally, an argument is made that the influence of religious denomination is an overemphasized variable in the understanding of the civil disturbances.", "contents": "The effects of location, experiences with the civil disturbances and religion on death anxiety and manifest anxiety in a sample of Northern Ireland university students. A total of 315 Northern Ireland university students were compared to 302 Republic of Ireland university students in terms of death anxiety, manifest anxiety, and perception of dangerousness of aspects of their environment and attitudes toward the civil disturbances in Northern Ireland. Also using these variables in the Northern Ireland sample, Protestants were compared to Catholics, those having had experiences with the disturbances were compared to those not having had such experiences, and those living in nominally dangerous areas of Belfast were compared to those living in nominally safer areas of Belfast. Students living in Northern Ireland had higher death anxiety and stronger fears than students living in the Republic. Those having had experiences with the civil violence had higher manifest anxiety and stronger fears than those not having has such experiences. Persons living in safe environments thought the disturbances to be more serious than those living in more dangerous environments, a result which is discussed in terms of the media and cognitive dissonance. Finally, an argument is made that the influence of religious denomination is an overemphasized variable in the understanding of the civil disturbances.", "PMID": 454980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11435", "title": "Assessment interviewing in clinical psychology.", "content": "The relative specificity of the structure of psychological traits has presented the clinical psychologist with a very difficult problem; it means that generalized test procedures are of limited use. This paper suggests: (1) that the interview presents one way of beginning to solve this problem, and (2) that the findings of psychological research may provide the means of arriving at a distinctive style of valid interviewing for assessment purposes. This style has two main features: (1) it facilitates self-exploration and self-disclosure and (2) it maximizes the accuracy of the information obtained. An outline of some of the research findings is presented; some of the methodological problems are discussed; and a brief example is given.", "contents": "Assessment interviewing in clinical psychology. The relative specificity of the structure of psychological traits has presented the clinical psychologist with a very difficult problem; it means that generalized test procedures are of limited use. This paper suggests: (1) that the interview presents one way of beginning to solve this problem, and (2) that the findings of psychological research may provide the means of arriving at a distinctive style of valid interviewing for assessment purposes. This style has two main features: (1) it facilitates self-exploration and self-disclosure and (2) it maximizes the accuracy of the information obtained. An outline of some of the research findings is presented; some of the methodological problems are discussed; and a brief example is given.", "PMID": 454981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11436", "title": "The temporal relationship between hostility and depressed mood.", "content": "Nineteen depressed in-patients were studied in a follow-up design for 8 weeks or until discharge, using three depression scales and a hostility questionnaire. It was hypothesized within a cognitive theory of depression that, self-rated hostility being a measure of negative thoughts and attitudes, changes in hostility would precede mood changes. Analysis was by contemporaneous and cross-correlations between mood and hostility measures. High intercorrelations were obtained among the mood ratings which decreased significantly over time, as did two of the four hostility measures. The hypothesis was confirmed by the cross-correlations between nurses' mood ratings and intropunitiveness and direction of hostility. The cross-correlations with Beck and Hamilton scales supported the hypothesis at a non-significant level.", "contents": "The temporal relationship between hostility and depressed mood. Nineteen depressed in-patients were studied in a follow-up design for 8 weeks or until discharge, using three depression scales and a hostility questionnaire. It was hypothesized within a cognitive theory of depression that, self-rated hostility being a measure of negative thoughts and attitudes, changes in hostility would precede mood changes. Analysis was by contemporaneous and cross-correlations between mood and hostility measures. High intercorrelations were obtained among the mood ratings which decreased significantly over time, as did two of the four hostility measures. The hypothesis was confirmed by the cross-correlations between nurses' mood ratings and intropunitiveness and direction of hostility. The cross-correlations with Beck and Hamilton scales supported the hypothesis at a non-significant level.", "PMID": 454982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11437", "title": "Expressed emotion: a review.", "content": "Expressed emotion refers to emotional aspects of speech for which ratings have been derived. In the relatives of discharged schizophrenic patients, these ratings are predictive of outcome suggesting the importance of social and family factors on the prognosis of schizophrenics living with their families. The development, measurement and current use of the concept are discussed.", "contents": "Expressed emotion: a review. Expressed emotion refers to emotional aspects of speech for which ratings have been derived. In the relatives of discharged schizophrenic patients, these ratings are predictive of outcome suggesting the importance of social and family factors on the prognosis of schizophrenics living with their families. The development, measurement and current use of the concept are discussed.", "PMID": 454983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11438", "title": "Memory for medical information.", "content": "The frequency with which patients fail to recall advice presented by their doctors is discribed. The amount forgotten is shown to be a linear function of the amount presented, to be correlated with the patient's medical knowledge, anxiety level and possibly age, but not with intelligence. It is probable that instructions and advice are more often forgotten than other information, and that this is the result of their low perceived importance, and their being presented late in the series of statements presented-there being (a) a primacy effect in recall of medical information, and (b) a tendency for statements perceived as more important to be better recalled. Experiments to control the content and amount of forgetting are described. Control of content can be obtained by use of the primacy and importance effects, while control of amount forgotten can be achieved by use of (a) simpler language, (b) explicit categorization, (c) repetition, and (d) concrete-specific rather than general-abstract advice statements.", "contents": "Memory for medical information. The frequency with which patients fail to recall advice presented by their doctors is discribed. The amount forgotten is shown to be a linear function of the amount presented, to be correlated with the patient's medical knowledge, anxiety level and possibly age, but not with intelligence. It is probable that instructions and advice are more often forgotten than other information, and that this is the result of their low perceived importance, and their being presented late in the series of statements presented-there being (a) a primacy effect in recall of medical information, and (b) a tendency for statements perceived as more important to be better recalled. Experiments to control the content and amount of forgetting are described. Control of content can be obtained by use of the primacy and importance effects, while control of amount forgotten can be achieved by use of (a) simpler language, (b) explicit categorization, (c) repetition, and (d) concrete-specific rather than general-abstract advice statements.", "PMID": 454984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11439", "title": "Conservative surgery in reflux stricture of the oesophagus associated with hiatal hernia.", "content": "During a 7-year period, 130 patients with oesophageal stricture resulting from long-standing reflux oesophagitis and hiatal hernia were referred for surgery. Eighty-seven of these patients underwent conservative surgery consisting of intraoperative transgastric retrograde dilatation combined with one of two types of anti-reflux operation: in 34 patients (group 1) an Allison-type operation for hiatal hernia was undertaken, and in the remaining 53 patients (group 2), a Nissen-type fundoplication was carried out. In 22 patients in this latter group the oesophagogastric junction could not be brought down into the abdomen in spite of extensive oesophageal mobilization and the fundoplication was finally placed above the diaphragm. From the successful results in both groups (particularly in group 2), it is concluded that conservative surgery should be considered in cases of hiatal hernia with a reflux stricture that yields to intraoperative dilatation.", "contents": "Conservative surgery in reflux stricture of the oesophagus associated with hiatal hernia. During a 7-year period, 130 patients with oesophageal stricture resulting from long-standing reflux oesophagitis and hiatal hernia were referred for surgery. Eighty-seven of these patients underwent conservative surgery consisting of intraoperative transgastric retrograde dilatation combined with one of two types of anti-reflux operation: in 34 patients (group 1) an Allison-type operation for hiatal hernia was undertaken, and in the remaining 53 patients (group 2), a Nissen-type fundoplication was carried out. In 22 patients in this latter group the oesophagogastric junction could not be brought down into the abdomen in spite of extensive oesophageal mobilization and the fundoplication was finally placed above the diaphragm. From the successful results in both groups (particularly in group 2), it is concluded that conservative surgery should be considered in cases of hiatal hernia with a reflux stricture that yields to intraoperative dilatation.", "PMID": 454986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11440", "title": "Treatment of chronic oesophageal perforations with special reference to an endoscopic method.", "content": "The endoscopic treatment of chronic oesophageal perforations (more than 18--24 h old) by the application of sodium hydroxide 20 per cent to the edges of the perforation is described. The importance of pleural and mediastinal toilet and the accurate siting of drainage tubes and full expansion of the lung, together with measures for diminishing oral, gastric and bilary secretions from the perforation, are stressed. Five patients who have been treated by this conservative method are presented and the method compared with the more radical surgery advocated by the majority of other surgeons.", "contents": "Treatment of chronic oesophageal perforations with special reference to an endoscopic method. The endoscopic treatment of chronic oesophageal perforations (more than 18--24 h old) by the application of sodium hydroxide 20 per cent to the edges of the perforation is described. The importance of pleural and mediastinal toilet and the accurate siting of drainage tubes and full expansion of the lung, together with measures for diminishing oral, gastric and bilary secretions from the perforation, are stressed. Five patients who have been treated by this conservative method are presented and the method compared with the more radical surgery advocated by the majority of other surgeons.", "PMID": 454987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11441", "title": "The anatomical basis for gastric mobilization in total oesophagectomy.", "content": "Following the injection of suitable media, the arterial tree of 22 post-mortem human stomachs was studied by angiography, or corrosion and micro-dissection. In stomachs infused exclusively by the right gastroepiploic artery, i.e. following ligation of all other gastric vessels on the stomach wall, both methods produced good fundal filling, while demonstrating consistently poor filling of a strip of stomach wall along the lesser curve. These findings do not support the assertion that in operations involving mobilization and transposition of the stomach the viability of the fundus is critically dependent upon an anastomotic circulation involving the extragastric portion of the left gastric vessels, but rather indicate that these vessels can, if required, be excised with impunity in most patients, provided that there is no extensive atherosclerosis. However, these findings indicate that such a procedure may impair the blood supply of the lesser curve, and they provide an anatomical explanation of the occasional occurrence of necrosis of the lesser curve following proximal gastric vagotomy.", "contents": "The anatomical basis for gastric mobilization in total oesophagectomy. Following the injection of suitable media, the arterial tree of 22 post-mortem human stomachs was studied by angiography, or corrosion and micro-dissection. In stomachs infused exclusively by the right gastroepiploic artery, i.e. following ligation of all other gastric vessels on the stomach wall, both methods produced good fundal filling, while demonstrating consistently poor filling of a strip of stomach wall along the lesser curve. These findings do not support the assertion that in operations involving mobilization and transposition of the stomach the viability of the fundus is critically dependent upon an anastomotic circulation involving the extragastric portion of the left gastric vessels, but rather indicate that these vessels can, if required, be excised with impunity in most patients, provided that there is no extensive atherosclerosis. However, these findings indicate that such a procedure may impair the blood supply of the lesser curve, and they provide an anatomical explanation of the occasional occurrence of necrosis of the lesser curve following proximal gastric vagotomy.", "PMID": 454988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11442", "title": "The temporary effect of proximal gastric vagotomy on experimental duodenal ulcers and gastric secretion.", "content": "A proximal gastric vagotomy (PGV) prevented experimental duodenal ulcers in rats for only 5 days and thereafter all rats developed duodenal ulceration. In sham-operated rats the mean stimulated gastric acid output was 186 mumol/60 min. Immediately following a PGV there was a significant decrease in gastric juice volume and acidity (P less than 0.001) with a fall in the mean stimulated acid output to 12 mumol/60 min. On the seventh day after vagotomy the stimulated acid output (volume and concentration) significantly increased to 88 mumol/60 min (P less than 0.001). When the dose of gastric secretagogues was reduced by 50 per cent, a PGV on day 0 prevented any changes occurring in the duodenal mucosa, but when repeated at 4 weeks after a PGV the severity of duodenal ulcers in vagotomized rats was greater than in those having had a sham operation (P less than 0.05). This transient effect of a PGV on duodenal ulcerogenesis and gastric secretion may be due to recovery of the parietal cell mass.", "contents": "The temporary effect of proximal gastric vagotomy on experimental duodenal ulcers and gastric secretion. A proximal gastric vagotomy (PGV) prevented experimental duodenal ulcers in rats for only 5 days and thereafter all rats developed duodenal ulceration. In sham-operated rats the mean stimulated gastric acid output was 186 mumol/60 min. Immediately following a PGV there was a significant decrease in gastric juice volume and acidity (P less than 0.001) with a fall in the mean stimulated acid output to 12 mumol/60 min. On the seventh day after vagotomy the stimulated acid output (volume and concentration) significantly increased to 88 mumol/60 min (P less than 0.001). When the dose of gastric secretagogues was reduced by 50 per cent, a PGV on day 0 prevented any changes occurring in the duodenal mucosa, but when repeated at 4 weeks after a PGV the severity of duodenal ulcers in vagotomized rats was greater than in those having had a sham operation (P less than 0.05). This transient effect of a PGV on duodenal ulcerogenesis and gastric secretion may be due to recovery of the parietal cell mass.", "PMID": 454989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11443", "title": "Vagotomy and pyloroplasty for gastric ulcers.", "content": "Eighty patients with benign gastric ulcer treated by vagotomy and pyloroplasty in a district general hospital are reviewed. There were no postoperative deaths in the patients undergoing elective surgery but 8 deaths in those undergoing emergency surgery for massive bleeding (38 per cent). Eighty-three per cent of patients had a result that was classed as good or satisfactory. Recurrent gastric ulceration was found in 8 per cent and a tendency to late asymptomatic ulcer recurrence is identified. Careful long term follow-up, including endoscopic re-examination, is advocated for patients undergoing conservative operations for benign gastric ulcer.", "contents": "Vagotomy and pyloroplasty for gastric ulcers. Eighty patients with benign gastric ulcer treated by vagotomy and pyloroplasty in a district general hospital are reviewed. There were no postoperative deaths in the patients undergoing elective surgery but 8 deaths in those undergoing emergency surgery for massive bleeding (38 per cent). Eighty-three per cent of patients had a result that was classed as good or satisfactory. Recurrent gastric ulceration was found in 8 per cent and a tendency to late asymptomatic ulcer recurrence is identified. Careful long term follow-up, including endoscopic re-examination, is advocated for patients undergoing conservative operations for benign gastric ulcer.", "PMID": 454990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11444", "title": "Lipid metabolites and nitrogen balance after abdominal surgery in man.", "content": "The relation of lipid metabolism to nitrogen balance was studied in patients having undergone abdominal surgery and was compared with control subjects who had fasted for a similar period. The patients had lower circulating concentrations of glycerol, non-esterified fatty acids and ketone bodies. There were inverse correlations between blood alanine and ketone body concentrations in both patients (r = -0.64, P less than 0.01) and controls (r = -0.58, P less than 0.01). Nitrogen excretion by patients (12.7 mmol/kg body weight/day +/- 1.4 s.e. mean) was greater than by controls (9.2 mmol kg(-1)d(-1) +/- 0.8, P less than 0.05), but a more marked difference was noted for urinary methyl histidine excretion of 5.1 +/- 0.5 mmumol kg(-1) d(-1) by patients and only 2.5 +/- 0.3 mumol kg(-1) d(-1) by controls (P less than 0.01), a disparity indicative of more active protein turnover after surgery.", "contents": "Lipid metabolites and nitrogen balance after abdominal surgery in man. The relation of lipid metabolism to nitrogen balance was studied in patients having undergone abdominal surgery and was compared with control subjects who had fasted for a similar period. The patients had lower circulating concentrations of glycerol, non-esterified fatty acids and ketone bodies. There were inverse correlations between blood alanine and ketone body concentrations in both patients (r = -0.64, P less than 0.01) and controls (r = -0.58, P less than 0.01). Nitrogen excretion by patients (12.7 mmol/kg body weight/day +/- 1.4 s.e. mean) was greater than by controls (9.2 mmol kg(-1)d(-1) +/- 0.8, P less than 0.05), but a more marked difference was noted for urinary methyl histidine excretion of 5.1 +/- 0.5 mmumol kg(-1) d(-1) by patients and only 2.5 +/- 0.3 mumol kg(-1) d(-1) by controls (P less than 0.01), a disparity indicative of more active protein turnover after surgery.", "PMID": 454991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11445", "title": "Complete liver dearterialization and the carcinoid syndrome.", "content": "A variety of surgical procedures are available in the treatment of the carcinoid syndrome, the aim being the destruction of liver secondaries and amelioration of symptoms. Dearterialization of the liver may be considered when liver secondaries are extensive and medical treatment inadequate in controlling symptoms. The patient reported here had severe symptoms of epigastric pain, anorexia, flushing, diarrhoea and recurrent syncope and was generally deteriorating rapidly. Complete dearterialization of the liver, however, resulted in a dramatic improvement. Now, 2 years later, the patient's hepatic scan, liver function tests and 24-h urine 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA) are all within normal limits. Destruction of liver secondaries by dearterialization is a relatively simple procedure. Careful attention should be paid to large quantities of pharmacologically active compounds released from the liver during the procedure. Ascites, jaundice and liver cell failure are definite contraindications to surgery.", "contents": "Complete liver dearterialization and the carcinoid syndrome. A variety of surgical procedures are available in the treatment of the carcinoid syndrome, the aim being the destruction of liver secondaries and amelioration of symptoms. Dearterialization of the liver may be considered when liver secondaries are extensive and medical treatment inadequate in controlling symptoms. The patient reported here had severe symptoms of epigastric pain, anorexia, flushing, diarrhoea and recurrent syncope and was generally deteriorating rapidly. Complete dearterialization of the liver, however, resulted in a dramatic improvement. Now, 2 years later, the patient's hepatic scan, liver function tests and 24-h urine 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA) are all within normal limits. Destruction of liver secondaries by dearterialization is a relatively simple procedure. Careful attention should be paid to large quantities of pharmacologically active compounds released from the liver during the procedure. Ascites, jaundice and liver cell failure are definite contraindications to surgery.", "PMID": 454992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11446", "title": "Benign inflammatory tumour of the common bile duct.", "content": "A rare cause of obstructive jaundice in childhood is presented. Ultrasound and subsequent percutaneous cholangiography demonstrated the site of obstruction. Histological examination of the resected tumour showed features consistent with a diagnosis of benign inflammatory tumour of the common bile duct.", "contents": "Benign inflammatory tumour of the common bile duct. A rare cause of obstructive jaundice in childhood is presented. Ultrasound and subsequent percutaneous cholangiography demonstrated the site of obstruction. Histological examination of the resected tumour showed features consistent with a diagnosis of benign inflammatory tumour of the common bile duct.", "PMID": 454993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11447", "title": "Hepatic artery aneurysm: a pitfall in biliary surgery.", "content": "This paper describes a patient operated upon for gall-bladder and bile duct stones, who presented with an extrahepatic aneurysm of the main hepatic arterial trunk and with a central intrahepatic haematoma assumed to be caused by the rupture of an intrahepatic aneurysm or by secondary intrahepatic necrosis. Exploration of the bile ducts resulted in haemobilia. The presence of extrahepatic arterial collaterals precluded individualization of the left and right hepatic arteries and subsequent distal arterial ligation or partial hepatectomy. Ligation of the common hepatic artery, although initially successful, was insufficient to avoid a recurrent and fatal haemobilia.", "contents": "Hepatic artery aneurysm: a pitfall in biliary surgery. This paper describes a patient operated upon for gall-bladder and bile duct stones, who presented with an extrahepatic aneurysm of the main hepatic arterial trunk and with a central intrahepatic haematoma assumed to be caused by the rupture of an intrahepatic aneurysm or by secondary intrahepatic necrosis. Exploration of the bile ducts resulted in haemobilia. The presence of extrahepatic arterial collaterals precluded individualization of the left and right hepatic arteries and subsequent distal arterial ligation or partial hepatectomy. Ligation of the common hepatic artery, although initially successful, was insufficient to avoid a recurrent and fatal haemobilia.", "PMID": 454994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11448", "title": "Assessment of carotid artery stenosis using pulse wave transit time.", "content": "A prospective study has been undertaken on 24 patients to establish the relationship between the degree of internal carotid artery stenosis, as estimated by arteriography, and the pulse wave transit time in the carotid artery. The technique involves the simultaneous use of two continuous wave Doppler velocimeters, one on the carotid and one on the supraorbital artery, to measure the flow waves and hence deduce the pulse wave transit times. The measured transit times varied from 17 to 124 ms with a beat-to-beat variation of 11 per cent. The absolute transit time in any segment correlated moderately well with the estimated degree of stenosis (r = 0.68, P less than 0.001). However, normalization of the transit times, to correct for the effects of blood pressure and age, produced on improved correlation between the variables (r = 0.8, P less than 0.001). Normalization was achieved by dividing the common carotid to supraorbital transit time by the shortest transit time found between the common carotid and either the superficial temporal or brachial arteries. Significant differences in the normalized transit times were found between arteries that were diametrically stenosed by more than 50 per cent, by between 21 and 50 per cent and by 20 per cent or below. It is concluded that pulse wave transit time measurement can provide a simple and reproducible non-invasive technique for the diagnosis of varying degrees of carotid artery stenosis.", "contents": "Assessment of carotid artery stenosis using pulse wave transit time. A prospective study has been undertaken on 24 patients to establish the relationship between the degree of internal carotid artery stenosis, as estimated by arteriography, and the pulse wave transit time in the carotid artery. The technique involves the simultaneous use of two continuous wave Doppler velocimeters, one on the carotid and one on the supraorbital artery, to measure the flow waves and hence deduce the pulse wave transit times. The measured transit times varied from 17 to 124 ms with a beat-to-beat variation of 11 per cent. The absolute transit time in any segment correlated moderately well with the estimated degree of stenosis (r = 0.68, P less than 0.001). However, normalization of the transit times, to correct for the effects of blood pressure and age, produced on improved correlation between the variables (r = 0.8, P less than 0.001). Normalization was achieved by dividing the common carotid to supraorbital transit time by the shortest transit time found between the common carotid and either the superficial temporal or brachial arteries. Significant differences in the normalized transit times were found between arteries that were diametrically stenosed by more than 50 per cent, by between 21 and 50 per cent and by 20 per cent or below. It is concluded that pulse wave transit time measurement can provide a simple and reproducible non-invasive technique for the diagnosis of varying degrees of carotid artery stenosis.", "PMID": 454995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11449", "title": "Radiological assessment of nipple-valve insufficienty in Kock's continent reservoir ileostomy.", "content": "In a series of 51 continent reservoir ileostomies nipple-valve insufficiency developed in 15 patients who were examined radiographically to find the cause for the loss of continency. The radiological diagnosis was confirmed at reoperation. The causes for nipple-valve insufficiency were a total or partial disappearance of the nipple-valve by sliding of the invaginate (7 cases) and dislocation of an undamaged nipple out of the reservoir (8 cases). In these groups the radiological diagnosis was compatible with the operative findings in all but one case. At reoperation a fistula in the nipple-valve was found in 3 cases, but in no instance had this been diagnosed radiologically. A correct preoperative diagnosis is valuable, especially in cases of dislocation, where a danger exists that the real mechanism of valve insufficiency may remain obscure at operation.", "contents": "Radiological assessment of nipple-valve insufficienty in Kock's continent reservoir ileostomy. In a series of 51 continent reservoir ileostomies nipple-valve insufficiency developed in 15 patients who were examined radiographically to find the cause for the loss of continency. The radiological diagnosis was confirmed at reoperation. The causes for nipple-valve insufficiency were a total or partial disappearance of the nipple-valve by sliding of the invaginate (7 cases) and dislocation of an undamaged nipple out of the reservoir (8 cases). In these groups the radiological diagnosis was compatible with the operative findings in all but one case. At reoperation a fistula in the nipple-valve was found in 3 cases, but in no instance had this been diagnosed radiologically. A correct preoperative diagnosis is valuable, especially in cases of dislocation, where a danger exists that the real mechanism of valve insufficiency may remain obscure at operation.", "PMID": 454996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11450", "title": "Closure of colostomy in infants and children.", "content": "A retrospective survey of 100 consecutive colostomy closures in infants and children is presented: the operative technique consisted of bowel resection and anastomosis, usually as a single layer, with intraperitoneal closure. Faecal fistula occurred in 5 cases and there were other major complications in 8 instances. Wound infection occurred in 43 patients. The subsequent use of a more aggressive bowel preparation reduced the incidence of this complication.", "contents": "Closure of colostomy in infants and children. A retrospective survey of 100 consecutive colostomy closures in infants and children is presented: the operative technique consisted of bowel resection and anastomosis, usually as a single layer, with intraperitoneal closure. Faecal fistula occurred in 5 cases and there were other major complications in 8 instances. Wound infection occurred in 43 patients. The subsequent use of a more aggressive bowel preparation reduced the incidence of this complication.", "PMID": 454997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11451", "title": "Loop colostomy closure.", "content": "The records of 74 patients who had loop colostomies closed at Addenbrooke's Hospital between 1970 and 1975 were studied retrospectively. One death from a pulmonary embolus occurred and the incidence of fistula from the site of closure was found to be 5.4 per cent. A number of differing factors were assessed. Closure 6 weeks after the colostomy's formation and preoperative antibiotic (antimicrobial) bowel preparation appeared to be factors associated with a favourable outcome. On the other hand, an initial operation for carcinoma and closure less than 6 weeks after the colostomy's formation were factors related to a less favourable outcome.", "contents": "Loop colostomy closure. The records of 74 patients who had loop colostomies closed at Addenbrooke's Hospital between 1970 and 1975 were studied retrospectively. One death from a pulmonary embolus occurred and the incidence of fistula from the site of closure was found to be 5.4 per cent. A number of differing factors were assessed. Closure 6 weeks after the colostomy's formation and preoperative antibiotic (antimicrobial) bowel preparation appeared to be factors associated with a favourable outcome. On the other hand, an initial operation for carcinoma and closure less than 6 weeks after the colostomy's formation were factors related to a less favourable outcome.", "PMID": 454998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11452", "title": "Necrotizing sialometaplasia of palate.", "content": "A patient with necrotizing sialometaplasia of the hard palate was treated with wide resection on a biopsy diagnosis of carcinoma. The literature on this recently identified entity is reviewed and the characteristic clinical features, histopathology and ultrastructure are summarized. To the best of our knowledge, no ultrastructural study concerning this entity has been previously reported. Unless recognized early, an extensive resection might be done needlessly.", "contents": "Necrotizing sialometaplasia of palate. A patient with necrotizing sialometaplasia of the hard palate was treated with wide resection on a biopsy diagnosis of carcinoma. The literature on this recently identified entity is reviewed and the characteristic clinical features, histopathology and ultrastructure are summarized. To the best of our knowledge, no ultrastructural study concerning this entity has been previously reported. Unless recognized early, an extensive resection might be done needlessly.", "PMID": 454999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11453", "title": "The ingrowing toenail: a modified segmental matrix excision operation.", "content": "A series of 528 patients with ingrowing toenails has been operated on under local anaesthetic by one surgeon using a simple technique in which a segment of germinal matrix is completely excised without cutting skin and with minimal interference with the nail wall. Normal footwear was worn by the fifth day in 79 per cent of patients. The recurrence rate was 1--7 per cent.", "contents": "The ingrowing toenail: a modified segmental matrix excision operation. A series of 528 patients with ingrowing toenails has been operated on under local anaesthetic by one surgeon using a simple technique in which a segment of germinal matrix is completely excised without cutting skin and with minimal interference with the nail wall. Normal footwear was worn by the fifth day in 79 per cent of patients. The recurrence rate was 1--7 per cent.", "PMID": 455000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11454", "title": "Melanoma of the nipple and areola.", "content": "Fourteen primary melanomas arising in the nipple and areola of the breast were treated by mastectomy and axillary dissection. Four patients had axillary lymph node metastases and all were dead within 3 years of their operation, while the 10 patients with no axillary node involvement were free from recurrent disease 5 years after their operation. On the basis of clinical and anatomical studies, it is suggested that a wide local excision without mastectomy is adequate for the treatment of nipple and areola melanomas.", "contents": "Melanoma of the nipple and areola. Fourteen primary melanomas arising in the nipple and areola of the breast were treated by mastectomy and axillary dissection. Four patients had axillary lymph node metastases and all were dead within 3 years of their operation, while the 10 patients with no axillary node involvement were free from recurrent disease 5 years after their operation. On the basis of clinical and anatomical studies, it is suggested that a wide local excision without mastectomy is adequate for the treatment of nipple and areola melanomas.", "PMID": 455001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11455", "title": "Sclerotherapy for hydrocoele and epididymal cysts.", "content": "A prospective study was carried out on the efficacy of sclerotherapy for the treatment of hydrocoeles and epididymal cysts. Thirty-six hydrocoeles and 13 epididymal cysts were treated and followed up for between 1 and 2 years. Thirty-four hydrocoeles were cured, 1 failed to respond to treatment and 1 recurred after treatment. All 13 epididymal cysts were cured.", "contents": "Sclerotherapy for hydrocoele and epididymal cysts. A prospective study was carried out on the efficacy of sclerotherapy for the treatment of hydrocoeles and epididymal cysts. Thirty-six hydrocoeles and 13 epididymal cysts were treated and followed up for between 1 and 2 years. Thirty-four hydrocoeles were cured, 1 failed to respond to treatment and 1 recurred after treatment. All 13 epididymal cysts were cured.", "PMID": 455002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11456", "title": "Late infection of a total hip prosthesis presenting as an ischiorectal abscess.", "content": "Late infection of a total hip arthroplasty recently presented as an ischiorectal abscess. A likely pathogenesis is suggested and the literature on late infection in prosthetic joints is reviewed.", "contents": "Late infection of a total hip prosthesis presenting as an ischiorectal abscess. Late infection of a total hip arthroplasty recently presented as an ischiorectal abscess. A likely pathogenesis is suggested and the literature on late infection in prosthetic joints is reviewed.", "PMID": 455003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11457", "title": "Congenital heart block and maternal systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "The association between infants with congenital heart block (CHB) and the presence or later development of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus or other connective-tissue disease (CTD) was reviewed in 67 cases. In 24 cases CHB was diagnosed at or before birth. Of nine necropsies on affected infants, seven showed endomyocardial fibrosis. The results suggest that one in three mothers who deliver babies with CHB have or will develop CTD. The association is probably explained by placental transfer of a maternal antibody. Awareness of the association may lead to prevention of the birth of children with CHB and better neonatal care of affected children.", "contents": "Congenital heart block and maternal systemic lupus erythematosus. The association between infants with congenital heart block (CHB) and the presence or later development of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus or other connective-tissue disease (CTD) was reviewed in 67 cases. In 24 cases CHB was diagnosed at or before birth. Of nine necropsies on affected infants, seven showed endomyocardial fibrosis. The results suggest that one in three mothers who deliver babies with CHB have or will develop CTD. The association is probably explained by placental transfer of a maternal antibody. Awareness of the association may lead to prevention of the birth of children with CHB and better neonatal care of affected children.", "PMID": 455010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11458", "title": "Extradural haematoma: effect of delayed treatment.", "content": "The case records of patients with extradural haematomas treated in the Lothian region during 1951-60 and 1968-77 were analysed to assess the effect of delay in treatment on morbidity and mortality. Delay was defined as the time from deterioration in level of consciousness to surgical evacuation of clot. There were 83 supratentorial extradural haematomas unassociated with intradural clot or contusion. The mean delay in patients who died was 15.7 hours, while in good-quality survivors the mean delay was 1.9 hours. Mortality decreased from 33.3% during 1951-60 to 8.9% during 1968-77. In addition, good recovery without morbidity occurred in 40.7% of patients in the earlier period and 67.9% in the later period. Mean delays from deterioration in level of consciousness to operation were 9.8 and 2.4 hours in the earlier and later periods respectively. The results emphasise the need for immediate operation in patients deteriorating with extradural haematomas. Direct admission of all head-injured patients to a head and spinal injuries unit staffed by neurosurgeons resulted in minimal delay times as well as a reduction in morbidity and mortality.", "contents": "Extradural haematoma: effect of delayed treatment. The case records of patients with extradural haematomas treated in the Lothian region during 1951-60 and 1968-77 were analysed to assess the effect of delay in treatment on morbidity and mortality. Delay was defined as the time from deterioration in level of consciousness to surgical evacuation of clot. There were 83 supratentorial extradural haematomas unassociated with intradural clot or contusion. The mean delay in patients who died was 15.7 hours, while in good-quality survivors the mean delay was 1.9 hours. Mortality decreased from 33.3% during 1951-60 to 8.9% during 1968-77. In addition, good recovery without morbidity occurred in 40.7% of patients in the earlier period and 67.9% in the later period. Mean delays from deterioration in level of consciousness to operation were 9.8 and 2.4 hours in the earlier and later periods respectively. The results emphasise the need for immediate operation in patients deteriorating with extradural haematomas. Direct admission of all head-injured patients to a head and spinal injuries unit staffed by neurosurgeons resulted in minimal delay times as well as a reduction in morbidity and mortality.", "PMID": 455011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11459", "title": "Hyponatraemia and severity and outcome of myocardial infarction.", "content": "A total of 235 consecutive patients admitted to a coronary care unit were investigated for serum electrolyte and urea concentrations; activities of aspartate amino-transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes; electrocardiographic changes; clinical state; and outcome. Hyponatraemia, hypochloraemia, and uraemia were common in patients with confirmed myocardial infarctions, the degree of infarction correlating well with all the above indices of severity. The day-to-day variability of plasma sodium, chloride, and potassium concentrations was often increased above normal. Disturbances were greater in patients given diuretics. It is concluded that plasma sodium concentration fall after infarction and that the extent and duration of the fall are indices of the severity of the infarction.", "contents": "Hyponatraemia and severity and outcome of myocardial infarction. A total of 235 consecutive patients admitted to a coronary care unit were investigated for serum electrolyte and urea concentrations; activities of aspartate amino-transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes; electrocardiographic changes; clinical state; and outcome. Hyponatraemia, hypochloraemia, and uraemia were common in patients with confirmed myocardial infarctions, the degree of infarction correlating well with all the above indices of severity. The day-to-day variability of plasma sodium, chloride, and potassium concentrations was often increased above normal. Disturbances were greater in patients given diuretics. It is concluded that plasma sodium concentration fall after infarction and that the extent and duration of the fall are indices of the severity of the infarction.", "PMID": 455012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11460", "title": "Reports by anaesthetists to procurators-fiscal: analysis of \"anaesthetic deaths\" over 10 years in four Scottish teaching hospitals.", "content": "Review of 489 \"anaesthetic deaths\" reported to procurators-fiscal over 10 years disclosed only 30 that were thought to justify such reporting. Most of the remainder occurred in patients so desperately ill at the time of operation that death was expected. Postmortem examinations ordered by the Crown authorities in nearly all cases were probably largely unrewarding and mostly unnecessary. The results suggest that the present regulation on reporting should be revised to focus more attention on the few deaths that occur in patients who have no apparent contraindication to anaesthesia or operation.", "contents": "Reports by anaesthetists to procurators-fiscal: analysis of \"anaesthetic deaths\" over 10 years in four Scottish teaching hospitals. Review of 489 \"anaesthetic deaths\" reported to procurators-fiscal over 10 years disclosed only 30 that were thought to justify such reporting. Most of the remainder occurred in patients so desperately ill at the time of operation that death was expected. Postmortem examinations ordered by the Crown authorities in nearly all cases were probably largely unrewarding and mostly unnecessary. The results suggest that the present regulation on reporting should be revised to focus more attention on the few deaths that occur in patients who have no apparent contraindication to anaesthesia or operation.", "PMID": 455013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11461", "title": "Prospective study of genetic counselling.", "content": "A prospective study was carried out on 200 consecutive subjects seen for counselling (consultands) for serious genetic disorders. Educational and social background of consultands and their knowledge and understanding of their particular problem were assessed before counselling, and their response was determined immediately afterwards and three months and two years later by an independent observer not concerned in the genetic counselling. The husband's educational background was particularly important in influencing a couple's comprehension of counselling. X-linked recessive and chromosomal disorders presented the most difficulties in comprehension. The counsellors' assessment of comprehension was a good guide to the consultands' comprehension as assessed at subsequent follow-up. The proportion deterred from having children increased with time and over a third had been sterilised within two years of counselling. It is suggested that follow-up after counselling should be routine, especially when the counsellor suspects that comprehension has not been good, in X-linked recessive and chromosomal disorders, and when the risks of having an affected child are considered to be high.", "contents": "Prospective study of genetic counselling. A prospective study was carried out on 200 consecutive subjects seen for counselling (consultands) for serious genetic disorders. Educational and social background of consultands and their knowledge and understanding of their particular problem were assessed before counselling, and their response was determined immediately afterwards and three months and two years later by an independent observer not concerned in the genetic counselling. The husband's educational background was particularly important in influencing a couple's comprehension of counselling. X-linked recessive and chromosomal disorders presented the most difficulties in comprehension. The counsellors' assessment of comprehension was a good guide to the consultands' comprehension as assessed at subsequent follow-up. The proportion deterred from having children increased with time and over a third had been sterilised within two years of counselling. It is suggested that follow-up after counselling should be routine, especially when the counsellor suspects that comprehension has not been good, in X-linked recessive and chromosomal disorders, and when the risks of having an affected child are considered to be high.", "PMID": 455018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11462", "title": "Pinealoblastoma with retinoblastomatous differentiation.", "content": "A case of primitive neuroectodermal tumour originating from pineal parenchymal cells in a 2 1/2-year-old boy is described. The tumour exhibited divergent lines of differentiation including neuroblastic and photoreceptor differentiation, thus aligning it with neuroblastomas and with retinoblastomas. The tumour recalls the function of the pineal as a photoreceptor organ at an earlier stage of its phylogenesis.", "contents": "Pinealoblastoma with retinoblastomatous differentiation. A case of primitive neuroectodermal tumour originating from pineal parenchymal cells in a 2 1/2-year-old boy is described. The tumour exhibited divergent lines of differentiation including neuroblastic and photoreceptor differentiation, thus aligning it with neuroblastomas and with retinoblastomas. The tumour recalls the function of the pineal as a photoreceptor organ at an earlier stage of its phylogenesis.", "PMID": 455042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11463", "title": "An analysis of factors influencing measurements of dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase and choline acetylase in human post-mortem brain tissue.", "content": "Measurements have been made of dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and choline acetylase (CAT) in a variety of regions from human post-mortem brain tissue, and the results analysed as a function of ante-mortem and post-mortem factors which may influence such measurements. The agonal status of the patient emerged as a major influence on the post-mortem measurement of GAD activity, without significantly affecting the other biochemical parameters. Of the other ante-mortem factors investigated, there appeared to be no differences between male and female, no circadian fluctuations, and few significant age-related changes, in any of the biochemical parameters measured in different brain regions. Moreover, the results indicated that the enzymes GAD and CAT are remarkably stable in human brain during routine post-mortem handling. Similar findings were made for dopamine and noradrenaline, although a substantial loss of both catecholamines probably occurs in the first few hours after death.", "contents": "An analysis of factors influencing measurements of dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase and choline acetylase in human post-mortem brain tissue. Measurements have been made of dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and choline acetylase (CAT) in a variety of regions from human post-mortem brain tissue, and the results analysed as a function of ante-mortem and post-mortem factors which may influence such measurements. The agonal status of the patient emerged as a major influence on the post-mortem measurement of GAD activity, without significantly affecting the other biochemical parameters. Of the other ante-mortem factors investigated, there appeared to be no differences between male and female, no circadian fluctuations, and few significant age-related changes, in any of the biochemical parameters measured in different brain regions. Moreover, the results indicated that the enzymes GAD and CAT are remarkably stable in human brain during routine post-mortem handling. Similar findings were made for dopamine and noradrenaline, although a substantial loss of both catecholamines probably occurs in the first few hours after death.", "PMID": 455043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11464", "title": "Increased dopamine concentration in limbic areas of brain from patients dying with schizophrenia.", "content": "Dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and choline acetyl-transferase (CAT) were measured in post-mortem brain samples from more than 50 patients dying with a hospital diagnosis of schizophrenia and an equal number of controls. GAD was measured in 14 different brain regions, and was significantly lower in both control and schizophrenia patients who died following a protracted illness. If GAD values from patients who died suddenly were compared, no significant differences were observed between the control and schizophrenia groups. There was also no differences between the CAT values measured in 13 different brain regions in the two groups. Noradrenaline values were not different in the two groups in most limbic areas or in the caudate nucleus, but were elevated in the schizophrenic group in nucleus accumbens and in anterior perforated substance. These differences were not, however, statistically significant. On the other hand dopamine concentrations in nucleus accumbens and in anterior perforated substance were significantly elevated (by 34 and 95 per cent, respectively) in the schizophrenia group as compared with controls, although dopamine values were not different in caudate nucleus, putamen, septal nuclei or amygdala. The finding of elevated concentrations of dopamine in certain areas of the limbic forebrain in schizophrenia is discussed in relation to current hypotheses of the involvement of dopamine in this illness, and the difficulties of determining whether the observed changes are related to chronic treatment with antischizophrenic drugs.", "contents": "Increased dopamine concentration in limbic areas of brain from patients dying with schizophrenia. Dopamine, noradrenaline, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and choline acetyl-transferase (CAT) were measured in post-mortem brain samples from more than 50 patients dying with a hospital diagnosis of schizophrenia and an equal number of controls. GAD was measured in 14 different brain regions, and was significantly lower in both control and schizophrenia patients who died following a protracted illness. If GAD values from patients who died suddenly were compared, no significant differences were observed between the control and schizophrenia groups. There was also no differences between the CAT values measured in 13 different brain regions in the two groups. Noradrenaline values were not different in the two groups in most limbic areas or in the caudate nucleus, but were elevated in the schizophrenic group in nucleus accumbens and in anterior perforated substance. These differences were not, however, statistically significant. On the other hand dopamine concentrations in nucleus accumbens and in anterior perforated substance were significantly elevated (by 34 and 95 per cent, respectively) in the schizophrenia group as compared with controls, although dopamine values were not different in caudate nucleus, putamen, septal nuclei or amygdala. The finding of elevated concentrations of dopamine in certain areas of the limbic forebrain in schizophrenia is discussed in relation to current hypotheses of the involvement of dopamine in this illness, and the difficulties of determining whether the observed changes are related to chronic treatment with antischizophrenic drugs.", "PMID": 455044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11465", "title": "Pontine and extrapontine myelinolysis.", "content": "No coherent theory has been advanced to explain either the particular localization of the myelinolytic lesions of central pontine myelinolysis or their pathogenesis. However, several lines of evidence support the generalization that the centre of the basis pontis has a special susceptibility to a metabolic fault. The constancy of localization of the lesion and its bilateral symmetry are the very attributes that characterize other metabolic (nutritional) disorders, such as the assymmetrical degeneragion of the papillomacular bundles within the optic nerves and tracts in deficiency amblyopia and the specific affection of the paraventricular regions in the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. And clinically, the frequent occurrence of central pontine myelinolysis in a setting of severe metabolic derangement, particularly of the serum sodium, points in the same direction.", "contents": "Pontine and extrapontine myelinolysis. No coherent theory has been advanced to explain either the particular localization of the myelinolytic lesions of central pontine myelinolysis or their pathogenesis. However, several lines of evidence support the generalization that the centre of the basis pontis has a special susceptibility to a metabolic fault. The constancy of localization of the lesion and its bilateral symmetry are the very attributes that characterize other metabolic (nutritional) disorders, such as the assymmetrical degeneragion of the papillomacular bundles within the optic nerves and tracts in deficiency amblyopia and the specific affection of the paraventricular regions in the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. And clinically, the frequent occurrence of central pontine myelinolysis in a setting of severe metabolic derangement, particularly of the serum sodium, points in the same direction.", "PMID": 455045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11466", "title": "Control of the saccadic and smooth pursuit systems after cerebral hemidecortication.", "content": "Saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements were analysed in 5 patients eight to twelve years after cerebral hemidecortication. Saccadic peak velocities were mildly reduced and saccadic durations were prolonged in both horizontal directions. Slowing of saccades may signify a loss of cerebral modulation of the discharge frequency and duration of brain-stem burst units or a less specific susceptibility of the hemidecorticate brain to fatigue. Symmetrical latencies of saccades to 20- and 40-degree target steps into the hemianopic and intact visual fields provided evidence for brain-stem processing of retinal signals from the hemianopic field. Latencies of saccades to 5-degree target steps into the blind hemifield were significantly longer than to 5-degree steps into the intact field. Disparity between saccadic latencies to parafoveal (5 degrees) and peripheral (20- and 40-degrees) targets indicated that such visual capacity in the hemianopic field is dependent upon target eccentricity.", "contents": "Control of the saccadic and smooth pursuit systems after cerebral hemidecortication. Saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements were analysed in 5 patients eight to twelve years after cerebral hemidecortication. Saccadic peak velocities were mildly reduced and saccadic durations were prolonged in both horizontal directions. Slowing of saccades may signify a loss of cerebral modulation of the discharge frequency and duration of brain-stem burst units or a less specific susceptibility of the hemidecorticate brain to fatigue. Symmetrical latencies of saccades to 20- and 40-degree target steps into the hemianopic and intact visual fields provided evidence for brain-stem processing of retinal signals from the hemianopic field. Latencies of saccades to 5-degree target steps into the blind hemifield were significantly longer than to 5-degree steps into the intact field. Disparity between saccadic latencies to parafoveal (5 degrees) and peripheral (20- and 40-degrees) targets indicated that such visual capacity in the hemianopic field is dependent upon target eccentricity.", "PMID": 455046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11467", "title": "Different types of disturbed motor control in gait of hemiparetic patients.", "content": "The pattern of muscle activation in walking was studied in a group of 26 hemiparetic patients. Electromyograms were taken with surface electrodes from 6 muscle groups of the paretic leg and analysed after rectification and time averaging. The sagittal rotations in hip, knee and ankle joint were determined with intermittent light photography. The muscle activation pattern of each patient was compared to that in healthy subjects as well as to the movements performed by the patient and to the normal movement pattern. The normal patterns of movement and muscle activation were assessed from compiled data from 10 healthy female volunteers and average values of angular displacements and amplitude of intergrated EMG were determined at each 5 per cent of the gait cycle. Change of muscle length was determined with a length recording transducer. Gait capacity varied highly in the group of patients studied and the movement pattern also varied markedly. Three types of abnormal muscle activation pattern were disclosed in the patients. In 9 patients, the calf muscles were prematurely activated in the stance phase, probably due to enhanced stretch reflexes (Type I). In another 9 patients, EMG activity was abolished or extremely low in 2 or more of the muscles examined (Type II). In 4 patients, there was a pathological coactivation of several or all of the muscles during part of the gait-cycle, thus disrupting the normal sequential shift of activity in antagonistic muscles (Type III). In the remaining 4 patients, the muscle activation pattern was more complex and no common pattern was discerned.", "contents": "Different types of disturbed motor control in gait of hemiparetic patients. The pattern of muscle activation in walking was studied in a group of 26 hemiparetic patients. Electromyograms were taken with surface electrodes from 6 muscle groups of the paretic leg and analysed after rectification and time averaging. The sagittal rotations in hip, knee and ankle joint were determined with intermittent light photography. The muscle activation pattern of each patient was compared to that in healthy subjects as well as to the movements performed by the patient and to the normal movement pattern. The normal patterns of movement and muscle activation were assessed from compiled data from 10 healthy female volunteers and average values of angular displacements and amplitude of intergrated EMG were determined at each 5 per cent of the gait cycle. Change of muscle length was determined with a length recording transducer. Gait capacity varied highly in the group of patients studied and the movement pattern also varied markedly. Three types of abnormal muscle activation pattern were disclosed in the patients. In 9 patients, the calf muscles were prematurely activated in the stance phase, probably due to enhanced stretch reflexes (Type I). In another 9 patients, EMG activity was abolished or extremely low in 2 or more of the muscles examined (Type II). In 4 patients, there was a pathological coactivation of several or all of the muscles during part of the gait-cycle, thus disrupting the normal sequential shift of activity in antagonistic muscles (Type III). In the remaining 4 patients, the muscle activation pattern was more complex and no common pattern was discerned.", "PMID": 455047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11468", "title": "Peripheral auditory input to the midbrain limbic area and related structures.", "content": "The effect of peripherally applied auditory stimulation on unit activity in midbrain limbic and related regions was investigated in the freely behaving rat. Two pure tones (1 and 10 kHz) and a noise generated by the discharge of a solenoid were used as stimuli presented randomly with 1 min mean interval between presentations. Computer-aided analysis of unit activity indicated that (1) a high proportion of neurons in the limbic midbrain region give excitatory responses to the three stimuli; (2) a majority of the responses have short latencies, especially in the dorsal raphe nucleus; (3) frequency and physical properties of the stimuli seemed not crucial for eliciting responsiveness; (4) habituation to repeated presentation of stimuli was not characteristic of the excitatory responses in the limbic midbrain region. These results are discussed in the light of possible functions of this region.", "contents": "Peripheral auditory input to the midbrain limbic area and related structures. The effect of peripherally applied auditory stimulation on unit activity in midbrain limbic and related regions was investigated in the freely behaving rat. Two pure tones (1 and 10 kHz) and a noise generated by the discharge of a solenoid were used as stimuli presented randomly with 1 min mean interval between presentations. Computer-aided analysis of unit activity indicated that (1) a high proportion of neurons in the limbic midbrain region give excitatory responses to the three stimuli; (2) a majority of the responses have short latencies, especially in the dorsal raphe nucleus; (3) frequency and physical properties of the stimuli seemed not crucial for eliciting responsiveness; (4) habituation to repeated presentation of stimuli was not characteristic of the excitatory responses in the limbic midbrain region. These results are discussed in the light of possible functions of this region.", "PMID": 455056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11469", "title": "Amino acids in rat neostriatum: alteration by kainic acid lesion.", "content": "Unilateral stereotaxic injection of 10 nmol of the glutamomimetic substance, kainic acid, into the rat striatum caused permanent, significant decreases in the levels of glutamate (40--50%), aspartate (35--40%), taurine (20--30%) and GABA (60--70%). There were initial, transient decreases in serine, glycine and alanine which returned to normal values within 16--32 days after injection. Glutamine levels were not altered in lesioned striatum. This coincided with a 55% increase in glutamine synthetase activity in the lesioned striatum compared either to the non-injected striatum or controls injected with saline. The high affinity uptake of choline by synaptosomal preparations of lesioned striatum was decreased by 70% compared to controls whereas that of glutamate/aspartate was either unchanged or somewhat on a per mg protein basis. This latter point may be illusory in that, because of widespread neuronal destruction, the total 'synaptosomal' protein obtained from the lesioned striata was only about 50% that from control tissue. The biochemical data are consistent with the histological and behavioral effects of kainic acid administration. The unchaning glutamine levels and increase in glutamine synthetase activity are consistent with the widespread gliosis and the lack of change in glutamate/aspartate high affinity uptake is consistent with a sparing of afferent terminals. The large decrease in glutamate and aspartate is consistent with hypotheses concerning the intraneuronal localization of a major pool of these amino acids, especially in GABAergic neurons. The decrease in taurine suggests that a portion of this amino acid in striatum is probably associated with neurons destroyed by kainic acid. The bulk of the taurine, however, is therefore associated either with glial cells or the afferents to the striatum.", "contents": "Amino acids in rat neostriatum: alteration by kainic acid lesion. Unilateral stereotaxic injection of 10 nmol of the glutamomimetic substance, kainic acid, into the rat striatum caused permanent, significant decreases in the levels of glutamate (40--50%), aspartate (35--40%), taurine (20--30%) and GABA (60--70%). There were initial, transient decreases in serine, glycine and alanine which returned to normal values within 16--32 days after injection. Glutamine levels were not altered in lesioned striatum. This coincided with a 55% increase in glutamine synthetase activity in the lesioned striatum compared either to the non-injected striatum or controls injected with saline. The high affinity uptake of choline by synaptosomal preparations of lesioned striatum was decreased by 70% compared to controls whereas that of glutamate/aspartate was either unchanged or somewhat on a per mg protein basis. This latter point may be illusory in that, because of widespread neuronal destruction, the total 'synaptosomal' protein obtained from the lesioned striata was only about 50% that from control tissue. The biochemical data are consistent with the histological and behavioral effects of kainic acid administration. The unchaning glutamine levels and increase in glutamine synthetase activity are consistent with the widespread gliosis and the lack of change in glutamate/aspartate high affinity uptake is consistent with a sparing of afferent terminals. The large decrease in glutamate and aspartate is consistent with hypotheses concerning the intraneuronal localization of a major pool of these amino acids, especially in GABAergic neurons. The decrease in taurine suggests that a portion of this amino acid in striatum is probably associated with neurons destroyed by kainic acid. The bulk of the taurine, however, is therefore associated either with glial cells or the afferents to the striatum.", "PMID": 455057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11470", "title": "Conditioning compensates the neglect due to unilateral 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra in rats.", "content": "The degree of the contralateral sensory neglect in rats with unilateral 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra was assessed by a conditioning procedure, employing lateralized CS. In the first experiment visual neglect (revealed by failure of the visually elicited placing reaction contralateral to the lesion) was shown to be accompanied by slower acquisition of a brightness discrimination task. The impairment was due to ipsilateral turning tendency rather then to visual deficit, however, since monocular relearning yielded equal savings with the ipsilateral and contralateral eyes. The second experiment showed that rats anesthetized with urethane reacted to noxious skin stimulation contralateral to the lesion with shorter-lasting EEG arousal than to ipsilateral stimulation of the same intensity. The electrophysiological asymmetry could be compensated by classical conditioning, i.e. by pairing habituated tactile stimuli with noxious tail shock. The conditioned arousal reaction could be elicited with the same efficiency from the neglected and intact body surface. It is concluded that neglect is due neither to a sensory nor to a motor failure, but that 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra in one hemisphere reduce the arousing efficiency of unconditioned stimuli and interfere with sensorimotor integrating mechanisms on the side contralateral to the lesion. Compensation of the neglect by conditioning indicates that the role of the nigrostriatal system can be partly substituted by other circuits.", "contents": "Conditioning compensates the neglect due to unilateral 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra in rats. The degree of the contralateral sensory neglect in rats with unilateral 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra was assessed by a conditioning procedure, employing lateralized CS. In the first experiment visual neglect (revealed by failure of the visually elicited placing reaction contralateral to the lesion) was shown to be accompanied by slower acquisition of a brightness discrimination task. The impairment was due to ipsilateral turning tendency rather then to visual deficit, however, since monocular relearning yielded equal savings with the ipsilateral and contralateral eyes. The second experiment showed that rats anesthetized with urethane reacted to noxious skin stimulation contralateral to the lesion with shorter-lasting EEG arousal than to ipsilateral stimulation of the same intensity. The electrophysiological asymmetry could be compensated by classical conditioning, i.e. by pairing habituated tactile stimuli with noxious tail shock. The conditioned arousal reaction could be elicited with the same efficiency from the neglected and intact body surface. It is concluded that neglect is due neither to a sensory nor to a motor failure, but that 6-OHDA lesions of substantia nigra in one hemisphere reduce the arousing efficiency of unconditioned stimuli and interfere with sensorimotor integrating mechanisms on the side contralateral to the lesion. Compensation of the neglect by conditioning indicates that the role of the nigrostriatal system can be partly substituted by other circuits.", "PMID": 455059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11471", "title": "The development of function of horizontal semicircular canal primary neurons in the rat.", "content": "The activity of primary horizontal semicircular canal neurons in newborn rats was compared to similar cells in adults. All animals were anesthetized with ether. Neurons were categorized as regular or irregular on the basis of their spontaneous activity. Horizontal semicircular canal neurons can respond to angular acceleration stimulation at birth. In newborn rats no regularly firing cells could be found, but the percentage of these cells and their average resting rate increased during growth. Neurons in newborn rats differ from those in the adult by having a lower average resting rate, a lower sensitivity to long-duration angular acceleration and taking longer to reach peak increase in firing during the stimulus. Sensitivity reaches adult values by about 4 days although the canal dimensions continue to increase until about 20 days.", "contents": "The development of function of horizontal semicircular canal primary neurons in the rat. The activity of primary horizontal semicircular canal neurons in newborn rats was compared to similar cells in adults. All animals were anesthetized with ether. Neurons were categorized as regular or irregular on the basis of their spontaneous activity. Horizontal semicircular canal neurons can respond to angular acceleration stimulation at birth. In newborn rats no regularly firing cells could be found, but the percentage of these cells and their average resting rate increased during growth. Neurons in newborn rats differ from those in the adult by having a lower average resting rate, a lower sensitivity to long-duration angular acceleration and taking longer to reach peak increase in firing during the stimulus. Sensitivity reaches adult values by about 4 days although the canal dimensions continue to increase until about 20 days.", "PMID": 455071} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11472", "title": "Sununit structure of synaptosomal tubulin.", "content": "The subunit structure of rat brain synaptosomal tubulin was examined by high resolution two-dimensional gel fractionation. Whole brain cytoplasmic tubulin consists of two groups of alpha subunits (alpha1 and alpha2), and a minimum of two beta subunits (beta1 and beta2). Both alpha subunits consist of a major relatively acidic form and minor relatively basic forms. In contrast, tubulin purified from synaptoplasm contains an additional subunit, alpha3, which has the same isoelectric point but slightly faster electrophoretic mobility than alpha1 and alpha2. All synaptosomal alpha subunits are the relatively acidic forms and the minor basic forms are absent. The synaptosomal beta subunits have electrophoretic properties similar to the corresponding cytoplasmic forms. The alpha3 synaptosomal tubulin subunit has affinity for colchicine, has a tryptic peptide map similar to whole brain cytoplasmic alpha tubulin, and can be purified by a standard tubulin purification method.", "contents": "Sununit structure of synaptosomal tubulin. The subunit structure of rat brain synaptosomal tubulin was examined by high resolution two-dimensional gel fractionation. Whole brain cytoplasmic tubulin consists of two groups of alpha subunits (alpha1 and alpha2), and a minimum of two beta subunits (beta1 and beta2). Both alpha subunits consist of a major relatively acidic form and minor relatively basic forms. In contrast, tubulin purified from synaptoplasm contains an additional subunit, alpha3, which has the same isoelectric point but slightly faster electrophoretic mobility than alpha1 and alpha2. All synaptosomal alpha subunits are the relatively acidic forms and the minor basic forms are absent. The synaptosomal beta subunits have electrophoretic properties similar to the corresponding cytoplasmic forms. The alpha3 synaptosomal tubulin subunit has affinity for colchicine, has a tryptic peptide map similar to whole brain cytoplasmic alpha tubulin, and can be purified by a standard tubulin purification method.", "PMID": 455072} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11473", "title": "Efferent projections of the parabigeminal nucleus in rats: a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) study.", "content": "The parabigeminal nucleus of the rat was made up of the dorsal, middle and ventral subgroups. When HRP was introduced into the superficial layer of the superior colliculus, labeled neurons were observed in the ipsilateral dorsal and ventral subgroups and in the contralateral middle subgroup. It was demonstrated that neurons of the dorsal and ventral subgroups sent fibers to the ipsilateral superior colliculus, and that those of the middle subgroup sent them to the anterior half of the contralateral colliculus, these fibers being arranged in 'anteroposterior' direction. HRP injections into the pretectal area, lateral geniculate body, suprachiasmatic nucleus and lateral hypothalamic area resulted in the labeling of neurons in the middle subgroup only when the supraoptic commissure and optic tract were injured by a pipette used in injections. Electrolytic lesions of the supraoptic commissure combined with collicular HRP injections resulted in no labeling of cells of the middle subgroup. From these findings, it could be concluded that neurons of the dorsal and ventral subgroups sent axons to the ipsilateral superior colliculus, and that fibers of neurons of the middle subgroup coursed through the supraoptic commissure to the contralateral superior colliculus.", "contents": "Efferent projections of the parabigeminal nucleus in rats: a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) study. The parabigeminal nucleus of the rat was made up of the dorsal, middle and ventral subgroups. When HRP was introduced into the superficial layer of the superior colliculus, labeled neurons were observed in the ipsilateral dorsal and ventral subgroups and in the contralateral middle subgroup. It was demonstrated that neurons of the dorsal and ventral subgroups sent fibers to the ipsilateral superior colliculus, and that those of the middle subgroup sent them to the anterior half of the contralateral colliculus, these fibers being arranged in 'anteroposterior' direction. HRP injections into the pretectal area, lateral geniculate body, suprachiasmatic nucleus and lateral hypothalamic area resulted in the labeling of neurons in the middle subgroup only when the supraoptic commissure and optic tract were injured by a pipette used in injections. Electrolytic lesions of the supraoptic commissure combined with collicular HRP injections resulted in no labeling of cells of the middle subgroup. From these findings, it could be concluded that neurons of the dorsal and ventral subgroups sent axons to the ipsilateral superior colliculus, and that fibers of neurons of the middle subgroup coursed through the supraoptic commissure to the contralateral superior colliculus.", "PMID": 455073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11474", "title": "Decentralization of the superior cervical ganglion in neonates impairs the development of the innervation of the iris. A quantitative ultrastructural study.", "content": "The superior cervical sympathetic ganglion was decentralized unilaterally by section of the preganglionic chain in 2- or 4-day-old rats. Twenty-one days post-operatively the dilator muscle of the iris was examined electron microscopically. Quantitative estimates demonstrated that there was a reduction both in the numbers of axon bundles and of individual axons in the iris innervated by the deafferented ganglion as compared with its fellow of the contralateral control side.", "contents": "Decentralization of the superior cervical ganglion in neonates impairs the development of the innervation of the iris. A quantitative ultrastructural study. The superior cervical sympathetic ganglion was decentralized unilaterally by section of the preganglionic chain in 2- or 4-day-old rats. Twenty-one days post-operatively the dilator muscle of the iris was examined electron microscopically. Quantitative estimates demonstrated that there was a reduction both in the numbers of axon bundles and of individual axons in the iris innervated by the deafferented ganglion as compared with its fellow of the contralateral control side.", "PMID": 455074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11475", "title": "Protein and glycoprotein composition of synaptic junctions prepared from discrete synaptic regions and different species.", "content": "Synaptic junction (SJ) were isolated by subcellular fractionation from different areas of the steer brain and from the brains of different species (steer, rat, chicken and human) for the purpose of comparing their protein and glycoprotein composition. The synaptic junction fractions from different brain regions and species were of comparable morphological purity. Analysis of the polypeptide composition of isolated synaptic junction fractions via SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the major polypeptides were represented in all junctional fractions independent of their source. Tubulin, actin, the major 52,000 Mr postsynaptic density protein and a group of proteins with a molecular weight of 200-250,000 Mr were all similarly represented. Most other components were also similar but quantitative differences were found for a few polypeptides. Interspecies differences were more prevalent than those between different brain areas of the same species. The protein compositions of different brain areas were similar even when an area consisting of primarily one neuronal type was compared to areas containing a mixture of neuronal types. However, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed distinct (but usually minor) polypeptides in enriched quantities in one or more brain areas. Tryptic peptide maps were carried out on the major postsynaptic density protein of different species. These maps showed a high degree of conservation in this protein's primary structure among all species studied. The glycoproteins of isolated synaptic junctions which bind the plant lectin concanavalin A (Con A) were also examined. To identify individual Con A binding components, SJ fractions were solubilized and constituent glycoproteins were separated by SDS gel electrophoresis. Gels were then incubated in 125I-Con A. The glycoproteins which bound Con A in gels were few in number and were not the major Coomassie blue staining bands. The great majority of the Con A binding glycoproteins were similar between species and among brain areas of the same species.", "contents": "Protein and glycoprotein composition of synaptic junctions prepared from discrete synaptic regions and different species. Synaptic junction (SJ) were isolated by subcellular fractionation from different areas of the steer brain and from the brains of different species (steer, rat, chicken and human) for the purpose of comparing their protein and glycoprotein composition. The synaptic junction fractions from different brain regions and species were of comparable morphological purity. Analysis of the polypeptide composition of isolated synaptic junction fractions via SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the major polypeptides were represented in all junctional fractions independent of their source. Tubulin, actin, the major 52,000 Mr postsynaptic density protein and a group of proteins with a molecular weight of 200-250,000 Mr were all similarly represented. Most other components were also similar but quantitative differences were found for a few polypeptides. Interspecies differences were more prevalent than those between different brain areas of the same species. The protein compositions of different brain areas were similar even when an area consisting of primarily one neuronal type was compared to areas containing a mixture of neuronal types. However, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed distinct (but usually minor) polypeptides in enriched quantities in one or more brain areas. Tryptic peptide maps were carried out on the major postsynaptic density protein of different species. These maps showed a high degree of conservation in this protein's primary structure among all species studied. The glycoproteins of isolated synaptic junctions which bind the plant lectin concanavalin A (Con A) were also examined. To identify individual Con A binding components, SJ fractions were solubilized and constituent glycoproteins were separated by SDS gel electrophoresis. Gels were then incubated in 125I-Con A. The glycoproteins which bound Con A in gels were few in number and were not the major Coomassie blue staining bands. The great majority of the Con A binding glycoproteins were similar between species and among brain areas of the same species.", "PMID": 455075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11476", "title": "Postnatal dendritic development in the rabbit visual cortex.", "content": "Golgi preparations of rabbit visual cortex aged 1-25 days, as well as similar tissues from adults, were examined for the growth of the dendritic arbor, and in particular the development of dendritic spines. The layer 5 pyramidal neurons and layer 4 stellate neuron were chosen as representatives of larger classes of neurons in the visual cortex. It was determined that the growth of the dendritic arbor, determined by counts of total number of dendritic and total dendritic length, is quite similar for pyramidal and stellate neurons. Dendritic spine development, however, is more rapid in pyramidal neurons than in stellate. This disparity in the rate of dendritic spine development is discussed in the light of physiologic studies on the development of receptive field properties in the rabbit visual cortex.", "contents": "Postnatal dendritic development in the rabbit visual cortex. Golgi preparations of rabbit visual cortex aged 1-25 days, as well as similar tissues from adults, were examined for the growth of the dendritic arbor, and in particular the development of dendritic spines. The layer 5 pyramidal neurons and layer 4 stellate neuron were chosen as representatives of larger classes of neurons in the visual cortex. It was determined that the growth of the dendritic arbor, determined by counts of total number of dendritic and total dendritic length, is quite similar for pyramidal and stellate neurons. Dendritic spine development, however, is more rapid in pyramidal neurons than in stellate. This disparity in the rate of dendritic spine development is discussed in the light of physiologic studies on the development of receptive field properties in the rabbit visual cortex.", "PMID": 455082} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11477", "title": "Effects of intranasal irrigation with mitotic inhibitors on olfactory behavior and biochemistry in mice.", "content": "Mice were trained to find buried food pellets or amyl acetate-scented sugar cubes. After training, the mice were intranasally irrigated with saline or one of several mitotic inhibitors--hydroxyurea (10 mM), ethidium bromide (2 mM), cytosine arabinoside (10 mM), or colchicine (0.25 mM). The behavioral testing was continued daily. By day 6 the colchicine animals had completely lost their ability to find sugar cubes. By day 8 all the ethidium bromide animals had lost their ability to find food pellets although 20% could still find the sugar cubes. The hydroxyurea animals exhibited a less dramatic and temporary deficit in olfactory capabilities which peaked near day 8. Cytosine arabinoside had no effect on olfactory-mediated behavior. The testing was terminated at 21 days. Two days later the animals were killed, olfactory tissue removed and assayed for thymidine incorporation into macromolecules, and the chemoreceptor marker, carnosine synthetase. All groups had a reduction in thymidine incorporation (33-25%). The ethidium bromide and colchicine groups exhibited a dramatic decrease in carnosine synthetase activity (ethidium bromide--olfactory bulb = 8% control, epithelium = 2%; colchicine--olfactory bulb = 10%, epithelium, 108%). These data are consistent with the notion that a functional mitotic process is necessary for continued olfactory capabilities and that in interruption in the normal mitotic process results in a decrease in olfactory chemoreceptor neurons and a loss in function.", "contents": "Effects of intranasal irrigation with mitotic inhibitors on olfactory behavior and biochemistry in mice. Mice were trained to find buried food pellets or amyl acetate-scented sugar cubes. After training, the mice were intranasally irrigated with saline or one of several mitotic inhibitors--hydroxyurea (10 mM), ethidium bromide (2 mM), cytosine arabinoside (10 mM), or colchicine (0.25 mM). The behavioral testing was continued daily. By day 6 the colchicine animals had completely lost their ability to find sugar cubes. By day 8 all the ethidium bromide animals had lost their ability to find food pellets although 20% could still find the sugar cubes. The hydroxyurea animals exhibited a less dramatic and temporary deficit in olfactory capabilities which peaked near day 8. Cytosine arabinoside had no effect on olfactory-mediated behavior. The testing was terminated at 21 days. Two days later the animals were killed, olfactory tissue removed and assayed for thymidine incorporation into macromolecules, and the chemoreceptor marker, carnosine synthetase. All groups had a reduction in thymidine incorporation (33-25%). The ethidium bromide and colchicine groups exhibited a dramatic decrease in carnosine synthetase activity (ethidium bromide--olfactory bulb = 8% control, epithelium = 2%; colchicine--olfactory bulb = 10%, epithelium, 108%). These data are consistent with the notion that a functional mitotic process is necessary for continued olfactory capabilities and that in interruption in the normal mitotic process results in a decrease in olfactory chemoreceptor neurons and a loss in function.", "PMID": 455084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11478", "title": "Description of an indolaminergic cell component in the cat locus coeruleus: a fluorescence histochemical and radioautographic study.", "content": "Using Falck-Hillarp fluorescence histochemical and radioautographic techniques, it has been found that, in addition to the well-known catecholaminergic cells, the locus coeruleus (LC) of the cat contains a sizeable component of indolaminergic neurons. Indolaminergic cell bodies occur in all subdivisions of the LC complex. They are most numerous in the LC proper and subcoeruleus area, but are also present in the medial and lateral parabrachial, and K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nuclei. In all, the indolaminergic cells are estimated to make up 7-10% of the monoaminergic neuronal population of the LC complex. With the exception of the K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nucleus, where somewhat larger cells occur, the indolaminergic cell bodies in different parts of the LC complex share a common fluorescence histochemical appearance. They display round to fusiform shapes and measure 30 x 18 micron on the average, which makes them cytoarchitectonically similar to the small type of noradrenergic cells in the LC. The formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of the indolaminergic cells in the LC complex was analyzed microspectrofluorometrically and the recorded excitation and emission spectra (maxima at 370 and 530 nm, respectively) were found to be identical with those recorded from midline raphe neurons. No evidence of noradrenaline content was found in the indolaminergic cells of the LC. Radioautographic experiments after intratissular injections of tritiated serotonin showed that the indolaminergic cells of the LC complex possess uptake mechanisms for serotonin. Taken together these results provide strong evidence for serotonin being the transmitter of the indolaminergic neurons discovered in the LC of the cat.", "contents": "Description of an indolaminergic cell component in the cat locus coeruleus: a fluorescence histochemical and radioautographic study. Using Falck-Hillarp fluorescence histochemical and radioautographic techniques, it has been found that, in addition to the well-known catecholaminergic cells, the locus coeruleus (LC) of the cat contains a sizeable component of indolaminergic neurons. Indolaminergic cell bodies occur in all subdivisions of the LC complex. They are most numerous in the LC proper and subcoeruleus area, but are also present in the medial and lateral parabrachial, and K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nuclei. In all, the indolaminergic cells are estimated to make up 7-10% of the monoaminergic neuronal population of the LC complex. With the exception of the K\u00f6lliker-Fuse nucleus, where somewhat larger cells occur, the indolaminergic cell bodies in different parts of the LC complex share a common fluorescence histochemical appearance. They display round to fusiform shapes and measure 30 x 18 micron on the average, which makes them cytoarchitectonically similar to the small type of noradrenergic cells in the LC. The formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of the indolaminergic cells in the LC complex was analyzed microspectrofluorometrically and the recorded excitation and emission spectra (maxima at 370 and 530 nm, respectively) were found to be identical with those recorded from midline raphe neurons. No evidence of noradrenaline content was found in the indolaminergic cells of the LC. Radioautographic experiments after intratissular injections of tritiated serotonin showed that the indolaminergic cells of the LC complex possess uptake mechanisms for serotonin. Taken together these results provide strong evidence for serotonin being the transmitter of the indolaminergic neurons discovered in the LC of the cat.", "PMID": 455085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11479", "title": "Central locomotor programming in the rabbit.", "content": "In decorticate, unanaesthetized and curarized rabbit preparations, with both hindlimbs deafferented, locomotor-like discharges were recorded from nerves to flexors and extensors and their time patterns were compared. The bursts of rhythmic activities recorded from nerves to several flexor muscles acting at either joint were shown to be synchronous, with no differences in their time of onset. The same was true for the extensors. Nerves to bifunctional muscles (biceps posterior, semi-tendinosus and tenuissimus) acting on two consecutive joints (knee flexors, hip extensors) could display two consecutive bursts in each locomotor cycle, one being pure flexor and the other an extensor discharge. It is shown here that this functional bivalence is programmed centrally and can be modulated, i.e. the relative importance of the flexor and the extensor bursts can be changed in a predictable way through afferent (proprioceptive or cutaneous) influences, or through activation of the descending monoaminergic pathways. In extreme cases, complete functional reversal was observed in these bifunctional muscle nerves.", "contents": "Central locomotor programming in the rabbit. In decorticate, unanaesthetized and curarized rabbit preparations, with both hindlimbs deafferented, locomotor-like discharges were recorded from nerves to flexors and extensors and their time patterns were compared. The bursts of rhythmic activities recorded from nerves to several flexor muscles acting at either joint were shown to be synchronous, with no differences in their time of onset. The same was true for the extensors. Nerves to bifunctional muscles (biceps posterior, semi-tendinosus and tenuissimus) acting on two consecutive joints (knee flexors, hip extensors) could display two consecutive bursts in each locomotor cycle, one being pure flexor and the other an extensor discharge. It is shown here that this functional bivalence is programmed centrally and can be modulated, i.e. the relative importance of the flexor and the extensor bursts can be changed in a predictable way through afferent (proprioceptive or cutaneous) influences, or through activation of the descending monoaminergic pathways. In extreme cases, complete functional reversal was observed in these bifunctional muscle nerves.", "PMID": 455086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11480", "title": "Neurochemical and morphological consequences of axon terminal degeneration in cerebellar deep nuclei of mice with inherited Purkinje cell degeneration.", "content": "The concentrations of free amino acids and the activities of transmitter-related enzymes, glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), choline acetylase (ChAC) and GABA-transaminase (GABA-t) were measured in cerebellar cortex and deep cerebellar nuclei from the mouse mutant Purkinje cell degeneration (pcd) at various times before and after Purkinje cell loss. Axosomatic synapses on target cells in pcd deep nuclei were quantified by electron microscopy during and after degeneration. The concentration of GABA (nmol/mg wet weight), the Purkinje cell transmitter, was normal in pcd cerebellar cortex and deep nuclei before onset of Purkinje cell degeneration on postnatal day 15. Just after the major period of Purkinje cell loss in cerebellar cortex, GABA concentration was unchanged in the cortical layers but fell to 50% of normal values in the deep nuclei of pcd animals killed either by decapitation or by microwave irradiation. No other measured free amino acid decreased. There were no long-term increases following Purkinje cell degeneration in the concentration of any transmitter amino acids or related enzymes, GAD, ChAC or GABA-t, and thus no indication of axonal sprouting reactions. Progressive losses occurred in wet weight and protein and in activity of GABA-t in both the cerebellar cortex and the deep nuclei of pcd animals. Electron microscopic analysis indicated that Purkinje cell axon terminals contact 30% or more of the somatic surface of principal neurons of the lateral nucleus of the normal cerebellum, but only about 2% of the corresponding sites in the pcd cerebellum. Glial leaflets, rather than other synaptic terminals take their place. Axon terminals may degenerate earlier than Purkinje somata in the pcd disease.", "contents": "Neurochemical and morphological consequences of axon terminal degeneration in cerebellar deep nuclei of mice with inherited Purkinje cell degeneration. The concentrations of free amino acids and the activities of transmitter-related enzymes, glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), choline acetylase (ChAC) and GABA-transaminase (GABA-t) were measured in cerebellar cortex and deep cerebellar nuclei from the mouse mutant Purkinje cell degeneration (pcd) at various times before and after Purkinje cell loss. Axosomatic synapses on target cells in pcd deep nuclei were quantified by electron microscopy during and after degeneration. The concentration of GABA (nmol/mg wet weight), the Purkinje cell transmitter, was normal in pcd cerebellar cortex and deep nuclei before onset of Purkinje cell degeneration on postnatal day 15. Just after the major period of Purkinje cell loss in cerebellar cortex, GABA concentration was unchanged in the cortical layers but fell to 50% of normal values in the deep nuclei of pcd animals killed either by decapitation or by microwave irradiation. No other measured free amino acid decreased. There were no long-term increases following Purkinje cell degeneration in the concentration of any transmitter amino acids or related enzymes, GAD, ChAC or GABA-t, and thus no indication of axonal sprouting reactions. Progressive losses occurred in wet weight and protein and in activity of GABA-t in both the cerebellar cortex and the deep nuclei of pcd animals. Electron microscopic analysis indicated that Purkinje cell axon terminals contact 30% or more of the somatic surface of principal neurons of the lateral nucleus of the normal cerebellum, but only about 2% of the corresponding sites in the pcd cerebellum. Glial leaflets, rather than other synaptic terminals take their place. Axon terminals may degenerate earlier than Purkinje somata in the pcd disease.", "PMID": 455087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11481", "title": "Neuroleptic and dopamine receptors: autoradiographic localization of [3H]spiperone in rat brain.", "content": "Rats were administered [3H]spiperone (SP: spiroperidol) by tail vein injection and 2 h later the brain was processed for light microscopic autoradiography. High densities of autoradiographic grains were found in all areas known to have a dopaminergic innervation, including the olfactory tubercles, nucleus accumbens, nucleus caudate-putamen, lateral septum, zona incerta, nucleus subthalamicus, arcuate nucleus, nucleus of the central amygdala, areas in the ventral tegmentum and the claustrum. There were also increased autoradiographic grain densities in other areas such as the midbrain and the frontal cortex indicating that binding occurred to other neurotransmitter receptors besides dopamine receptors. These studies delineate with a high resolution at an anatomical level the major binding sites for neuroleptic drugs in the forebrain. They suggest which areas of the brain are the most involved in neuroleptic drug action and they add further evidence that important regions are those receiving a dense dopaminergic innervation.", "contents": "Neuroleptic and dopamine receptors: autoradiographic localization of [3H]spiperone in rat brain. Rats were administered [3H]spiperone (SP: spiroperidol) by tail vein injection and 2 h later the brain was processed for light microscopic autoradiography. High densities of autoradiographic grains were found in all areas known to have a dopaminergic innervation, including the olfactory tubercles, nucleus accumbens, nucleus caudate-putamen, lateral septum, zona incerta, nucleus subthalamicus, arcuate nucleus, nucleus of the central amygdala, areas in the ventral tegmentum and the claustrum. There were also increased autoradiographic grain densities in other areas such as the midbrain and the frontal cortex indicating that binding occurred to other neurotransmitter receptors besides dopamine receptors. These studies delineate with a high resolution at an anatomical level the major binding sites for neuroleptic drugs in the forebrain. They suggest which areas of the brain are the most involved in neuroleptic drug action and they add further evidence that important regions are those receiving a dense dopaminergic innervation.", "PMID": 455088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11482", "title": "Dissociation of spontaneous and mating induced ovulation by frontal hypothalamic deafferentations in the rat.", "content": "Different types of anterior hypothalamic deafferentations have been used to investigate the nervous pathways involved in spontaneous and mating-induced ovulation in the rat. Knife cuts which circumscribed the suprachiasmatic nuclei on all but their ventral surface and either their rostral or caudal poles prevented spontaneous ovulation, but the rats were sexually receptive (copulation plugs and sperm in the smear), and mating induced ovulation. Similar types of cut extended dorsally so as to sever the continuity between the preoptic area and the mediobasal hypothalamus also prevented spontaneous ovulation, and although these rats were also receptive, mating did not induce ovulation. Two possible explanations are considered: either (i) that difference between the effects of the two types of cut is a direct function of the differing proportions of gonadotrophic hormone-containing axons severed, or (ii) cuts in the region of the suprachiasmatic nuclei specifically impair a mechanism for the maintenance of diurnal rhythms, to which the abnormality in gonadotrophin control is secondary.", "contents": "Dissociation of spontaneous and mating induced ovulation by frontal hypothalamic deafferentations in the rat. Different types of anterior hypothalamic deafferentations have been used to investigate the nervous pathways involved in spontaneous and mating-induced ovulation in the rat. Knife cuts which circumscribed the suprachiasmatic nuclei on all but their ventral surface and either their rostral or caudal poles prevented spontaneous ovulation, but the rats were sexually receptive (copulation plugs and sperm in the smear), and mating induced ovulation. Similar types of cut extended dorsally so as to sever the continuity between the preoptic area and the mediobasal hypothalamus also prevented spontaneous ovulation, and although these rats were also receptive, mating did not induce ovulation. Two possible explanations are considered: either (i) that difference between the effects of the two types of cut is a direct function of the differing proportions of gonadotrophic hormone-containing axons severed, or (ii) cuts in the region of the suprachiasmatic nuclei specifically impair a mechanism for the maintenance of diurnal rhythms, to which the abnormality in gonadotrophin control is secondary.", "PMID": 455089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11483", "title": "Activity of dentate granule cells during learning: differentiation of perforant path input.", "content": "Experiments were conducted which extended previous findings regarding the activity of the perforant path and its synaptic relationship to the granule cells of the dentate gyrus during conditioning. A differential conditioning paradigm was utilized in which rats were trained to respond to one of two different tone frequencies. Results demonstrated that (1) tone elicited averaged evoked potentials recorded from the perforant path terminal zone in the outer molecular layer of the dentate gyrus were similar for both the positive and negative tones regardless of frequency or reversal of the reinforcement condition; (2) extracellular unit discharge patterns of dentate granule cells were differentially associated with the positive and negative tones as demonstrated by post stimulus histograms (PSHs); (3) this differential pattern of unit discharges could be reversed following establishment of criterion differential behavioral responding after reversal of the reinforcement contingency between the two tone stimuli and (4) the differential unit discharge pattern was not present when behavioral responding was not differentiated to the two tone stimuli, e.g., immediately following reversal of the reinforcement contingency. The results are discussed within the context of other anatomically defined functional circuits within the hippocampus which could serve as the basis for alteration of the non differentiated excitatory perforant path input into a differential dentate granule cell discharge pattern for behaviorally relevant sensory stimuli.", "contents": "Activity of dentate granule cells during learning: differentiation of perforant path input. Experiments were conducted which extended previous findings regarding the activity of the perforant path and its synaptic relationship to the granule cells of the dentate gyrus during conditioning. A differential conditioning paradigm was utilized in which rats were trained to respond to one of two different tone frequencies. Results demonstrated that (1) tone elicited averaged evoked potentials recorded from the perforant path terminal zone in the outer molecular layer of the dentate gyrus were similar for both the positive and negative tones regardless of frequency or reversal of the reinforcement condition; (2) extracellular unit discharge patterns of dentate granule cells were differentially associated with the positive and negative tones as demonstrated by post stimulus histograms (PSHs); (3) this differential pattern of unit discharges could be reversed following establishment of criterion differential behavioral responding after reversal of the reinforcement contingency between the two tone stimuli and (4) the differential unit discharge pattern was not present when behavioral responding was not differentiated to the two tone stimuli, e.g., immediately following reversal of the reinforcement contingency. The results are discussed within the context of other anatomically defined functional circuits within the hippocampus which could serve as the basis for alteration of the non differentiated excitatory perforant path input into a differential dentate granule cell discharge pattern for behaviorally relevant sensory stimuli.", "PMID": 455095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11484", "title": "Effect of TEA on light emission from aequorin-injected aplysia central neurons.", "content": "Aplysia central neurons were injected with the calcium-sensitive photoprotein aequorin and stimulated with trains of identical depolarizing voltage-clamp pulses. The light emissions grew and the outward currents declined in successive pulses. Tetraethylammonium (TEA) enhanced the light emissions to single depolarizing pulses and suppressed the outward current. The remaining net inward current is carried primarily by calcium ions and does not facilitate. The aequorin emissions were larger at all amplitudes of depolarizing pulses that elicited emissions, and the facilitation of emissions in a train of pulses was reduced. The effect of TEA on outward current was nearly maximal when sodium ions were partially replaced with 0.1 M TEA, while the aequorin emissions were further enhanced by increasing the TEA concentration to 0.459 M. TEA enhanced the aequorin emissions at all voltages. These observations suggest that the action of TEA on aequorin emissions is not strictly a consequence of its better known outward current blocking action. The effects of TEA could be partly due to the lowered sodium concentration of these solutions. Replacement of sodium by Tris, sucrose or mannose, however, all produced no enhancement of emissions. Tetramethylammonium (TMA) replacement of sodium had effects similar to those of TEA. Thus TEA and TMA appear to have a specific effect. Part of the enhancement of light emissions by TEA is due to the removal of a series resistance error in the voltage clamp, and this may also account partly for the reduced facilitation of aequorin emissions in TEA. The remainder of the action of TEA on aequorin emissions evidently reflects a specific but previously unrecognized action on the cellular metabolism of calcium ions or on the voltage-dependent calcium channels.", "contents": "Effect of TEA on light emission from aequorin-injected aplysia central neurons. Aplysia central neurons were injected with the calcium-sensitive photoprotein aequorin and stimulated with trains of identical depolarizing voltage-clamp pulses. The light emissions grew and the outward currents declined in successive pulses. Tetraethylammonium (TEA) enhanced the light emissions to single depolarizing pulses and suppressed the outward current. The remaining net inward current is carried primarily by calcium ions and does not facilitate. The aequorin emissions were larger at all amplitudes of depolarizing pulses that elicited emissions, and the facilitation of emissions in a train of pulses was reduced. The effect of TEA on outward current was nearly maximal when sodium ions were partially replaced with 0.1 M TEA, while the aequorin emissions were further enhanced by increasing the TEA concentration to 0.459 M. TEA enhanced the aequorin emissions at all voltages. These observations suggest that the action of TEA on aequorin emissions is not strictly a consequence of its better known outward current blocking action. The effects of TEA could be partly due to the lowered sodium concentration of these solutions. Replacement of sodium by Tris, sucrose or mannose, however, all produced no enhancement of emissions. Tetramethylammonium (TMA) replacement of sodium had effects similar to those of TEA. Thus TEA and TMA appear to have a specific effect. Part of the enhancement of light emissions by TEA is due to the removal of a series resistance error in the voltage clamp, and this may also account partly for the reduced facilitation of aequorin emissions in TEA. The remainder of the action of TEA on aequorin emissions evidently reflects a specific but previously unrecognized action on the cellular metabolism of calcium ions or on the voltage-dependent calcium channels.", "PMID": 455096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11485", "title": "The toxic effects of saline drinking water on young turkey poults.", "content": "Turkey poults were offered ad libitum a diet containing 2.5 g salt/kg and tap water containing, 0, 90 or 105 mn NaCl to drink from 1 to 12 d of age. 2. High mortality with oedbema and ascites occurred mainly from 5 to 8 d in poults given the saline solutions. Mortality seemed to be related to salt and water intakes. 3. Plasma and body composition indicated abnormal retention of salt and water in poults younger than 12 d of age offered hypotonic saline. 4. In a second experiment using the same diet poults were offered hypotonic saline (105 mn NaCl in tap water) from 5, 9 or 13 d of age. High mortality with oedema and ascites was only observed when saline was given from 5 or 9 d. 5. The results suggest that from about 5 to 10 d of age there is a relative functional renal insufficiency which causes susceptibility to the toxic effects of saline water.", "contents": "The toxic effects of saline drinking water on young turkey poults. Turkey poults were offered ad libitum a diet containing 2.5 g salt/kg and tap water containing, 0, 90 or 105 mn NaCl to drink from 1 to 12 d of age. 2. High mortality with oedbema and ascites occurred mainly from 5 to 8 d in poults given the saline solutions. Mortality seemed to be related to salt and water intakes. 3. Plasma and body composition indicated abnormal retention of salt and water in poults younger than 12 d of age offered hypotonic saline. 4. In a second experiment using the same diet poults were offered hypotonic saline (105 mn NaCl in tap water) from 5, 9 or 13 d of age. High mortality with oedema and ascites was only observed when saline was given from 5 or 9 d. 5. The results suggest that from about 5 to 10 d of age there is a relative functional renal insufficiency which causes susceptibility to the toxic effects of saline water.", "PMID": 455107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11486", "title": "Reproductive performance of turkey hens as influenced by hormone implants.", "content": "Large White turkey hens were implanted with silicone capsules containing either cholesterol (control), progesterone, 17-beta oestradiol (E2), oestrone (E1) or a combination of progesterone and E2. Egg production and fertility were measured. Blood samples were collected weekly for measurement of progesterone by radioimmunoassay. 2. Progesterone alone caused a several-fold increase in serum progesterone concentrations initially and significantly depressed egg production. Simultaneous administration of E2 significantly decreased progesterone concentration, but did not ameliorate the decrease in egg production. 3. There were significant positive correlations between serum progesterone concentration and egg production in control birds and those receiving E2 and E1. There was no significant correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. 4. The results indicated that, within the physiological range, higher progesterone concentrations are associated with higher egg production. However, maintenance of constant progesterone concentrations throughout the reproductive season by means of implants was not achieved. Implants of E1 and E2 did not affect fecundity.", "contents": "Reproductive performance of turkey hens as influenced by hormone implants. Large White turkey hens were implanted with silicone capsules containing either cholesterol (control), progesterone, 17-beta oestradiol (E2), oestrone (E1) or a combination of progesterone and E2. Egg production and fertility were measured. Blood samples were collected weekly for measurement of progesterone by radioimmunoassay. 2. Progesterone alone caused a several-fold increase in serum progesterone concentrations initially and significantly depressed egg production. Simultaneous administration of E2 significantly decreased progesterone concentration, but did not ameliorate the decrease in egg production. 3. There were significant positive correlations between serum progesterone concentration and egg production in control birds and those receiving E2 and E1. There was no significant correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. 4. The results indicated that, within the physiological range, higher progesterone concentrations are associated with higher egg production. However, maintenance of constant progesterone concentrations throughout the reproductive season by means of implants was not achieved. Implants of E1 and E2 did not affect fecundity.", "PMID": 455108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11487", "title": "The tryptophan requirement of broiler chicks.", "content": "The \"available\" tryptophan requirements of male and female broiler chicks were determined at 7-d intervals from 0 to 56 d, using a diet-dilution technique. Availability of tryptophan in the diets was estimated by growth assay with chicks. 2. The tryptophan requirements were 2.4 (males) and 2.2 g/kg of diet (female) from 0-7 d, and 1.7 g/kg (males and females) from 7-35 and 35-56 d. The absolute requirement of the chick for tryptophan increased with age and was significantly different for male and female birds. 3. A highly significantly predictive equation relating tryptophan requirement to mean body weight and gain was established.", "contents": "The tryptophan requirement of broiler chicks. The \"available\" tryptophan requirements of male and female broiler chicks were determined at 7-d intervals from 0 to 56 d, using a diet-dilution technique. Availability of tryptophan in the diets was estimated by growth assay with chicks. 2. The tryptophan requirements were 2.4 (males) and 2.2 g/kg of diet (female) from 0-7 d, and 1.7 g/kg (males and females) from 7-35 and 35-56 d. The absolute requirement of the chick for tryptophan increased with age and was significantly different for male and female birds. 3. A highly significantly predictive equation relating tryptophan requirement to mean body weight and gain was established.", "PMID": 455109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11488", "title": "Isolation and identification of avian mycoplasmas in Singapore.", "content": "Two hundred and forty batches of chickens with chronic respiratory syndrome were tested for mycoplasmas. One hundred and five batches (43.8%) were found to have mycoplasmosis. A total of 110 isolates of mycoplasma was cultured, of which nine isolates were identified as Mycoplasma gallisepticum, 48 avian sero-group D, 45 M. gallinarum, one M. iners and seven unclassified. 2. Identification of the mycoplasmas isolated was carried out by biochemical and serological tests (disc growth inhibition and agar gel diffusion tests). A modified agar gel diffusion test using solubilised antigens with sodium deoxycholate-glucose solution was developed for serotying of mycoplasmas.", "contents": "Isolation and identification of avian mycoplasmas in Singapore. Two hundred and forty batches of chickens with chronic respiratory syndrome were tested for mycoplasmas. One hundred and five batches (43.8%) were found to have mycoplasmosis. A total of 110 isolates of mycoplasma was cultured, of which nine isolates were identified as Mycoplasma gallisepticum, 48 avian sero-group D, 45 M. gallinarum, one M. iners and seven unclassified. 2. Identification of the mycoplasmas isolated was carried out by biochemical and serological tests (disc growth inhibition and agar gel diffusion tests). A modified agar gel diffusion test using solubilised antigens with sodium deoxycholate-glucose solution was developed for serotying of mycoplasmas.", "PMID": 455110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11489", "title": "Growth hormone and prolactin secretion in growing domestic fowl: influence of sex and breed.", "content": "Plasma growth hormone (GH) and prolactin concentrations were measured between 1 and 24 weeks of age in both sexes of a laying strain of chickens and from 1 to 9 weeks of age in broiler cockerels. 2. GH and prolactin concentrations were highest in young birds and higher in males than in females. 3. In both sexes GH and prolactin concentrations were correlated inversely with age and body weight and positively with relative weight gain. 4. Differences in growth rate between broilers and layers were related to differences in blood GH concentrations. 5. Water deprivation for periods of 6, 12, 18 or 24 h increases plasma prolactin markedly but did not affect GH secretion significantly.", "contents": "Growth hormone and prolactin secretion in growing domestic fowl: influence of sex and breed. Plasma growth hormone (GH) and prolactin concentrations were measured between 1 and 24 weeks of age in both sexes of a laying strain of chickens and from 1 to 9 weeks of age in broiler cockerels. 2. GH and prolactin concentrations were highest in young birds and higher in males than in females. 3. In both sexes GH and prolactin concentrations were correlated inversely with age and body weight and positively with relative weight gain. 4. Differences in growth rate between broilers and layers were related to differences in blood GH concentrations. 5. Water deprivation for periods of 6, 12, 18 or 24 h increases plasma prolactin markedly but did not affect GH secretion significantly.", "PMID": 455111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11490", "title": "Stereospecific analysis of triacylglycerols via racemic phosphatidylcholines and phospholipase C.", "content": "A method of simultaneous determination of stereospecific distribution and molecular association of acyl groups in triacylglycerols has been developed. The analysis is based on a random generation of rac-1,2-diacylglycerols by Grignard degradation, synthesis of rac-phosphatidylcholines, and a stereospecific stepwise release of 1,2-sn- and 2,3-sn-diacylglycerols by phospholipase C. The exact structure of the original triacylglycerols is reconstituted on the basis of complete analysis of the molecular species of the 1,2-sn- and 2,3-sn-diacylglycerols as the tertiary-butyldimethylsilyl ethers by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The validity of the method is demonstrated by analyses of synthetic triacylglycerols of known structure. A practical application is illustrated by determination of the fatty acid distribution in lard.", "contents": "Stereospecific analysis of triacylglycerols via racemic phosphatidylcholines and phospholipase C. A method of simultaneous determination of stereospecific distribution and molecular association of acyl groups in triacylglycerols has been developed. The analysis is based on a random generation of rac-1,2-diacylglycerols by Grignard degradation, synthesis of rac-phosphatidylcholines, and a stereospecific stepwise release of 1,2-sn- and 2,3-sn-diacylglycerols by phospholipase C. The exact structure of the original triacylglycerols is reconstituted on the basis of complete analysis of the molecular species of the 1,2-sn- and 2,3-sn-diacylglycerols as the tertiary-butyldimethylsilyl ethers by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The validity of the method is demonstrated by analyses of synthetic triacylglycerols of known structure. A practical application is illustrated by determination of the fatty acid distribution in lard.", "PMID": 455112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11491", "title": "Purification and some properties of five endo-1,4-beta-D-xylanases and a beta-D-xylosidase produced by a strain of Aspergillus niger.", "content": "Five different xylanases and a beta-D-xylosidase in the culture medium of Aspergillus niger have been purified to homogeneity from 13- to 52-fold by a procedure of gel and hydroxylapatite chromatography. The strain was isolated from soil of the African equatorial forest. Gel chromatography of the purified enzymes indicated that three of the xylanases have molecular weights of 31,000 and the other two xylanases have molecular weights of 50,000. beta-D-Xylosidase has a molecular weight of 78,000. The pH curves of the xylanases were quite diverse and showed pH optima ranging from 4.0 to 6.5. Characteristic action patterns were obtained for each of the purified xylanases by gel chromatography of the xylan digests on Bio-Gel P-2. The enzymes degraded arabinoxylan by an endomechanism, producing L-arabinose, D-xylose, xylobiose, and a mixture of branched arabinose-xylose and D-xylose oligosaccharides. All xylanases seemed to be capable of liberating L-arabinose from either arabinoxylan or the arabinose-xylose oligosaccharides. Branched arabinose-containing D-xylose oligosaccharides were slowly hydrolyzed, so that these sugars accumulate in the digest. Two xylanases showed relatively broad substrate specificity and were able to degrade also crystalline cellulose. beta-D-Xylosidase showed optimal activity at pH 6.7 to 7.0 and at 42 degrees C. The Km for o-nitrophenyl-beta-D-xylopyranoside was 0.22 mM and xylotriose was hydrolyzed more rapidly than xylobiose.", "contents": "Purification and some properties of five endo-1,4-beta-D-xylanases and a beta-D-xylosidase produced by a strain of Aspergillus niger. Five different xylanases and a beta-D-xylosidase in the culture medium of Aspergillus niger have been purified to homogeneity from 13- to 52-fold by a procedure of gel and hydroxylapatite chromatography. The strain was isolated from soil of the African equatorial forest. Gel chromatography of the purified enzymes indicated that three of the xylanases have molecular weights of 31,000 and the other two xylanases have molecular weights of 50,000. beta-D-Xylosidase has a molecular weight of 78,000. The pH curves of the xylanases were quite diverse and showed pH optima ranging from 4.0 to 6.5. Characteristic action patterns were obtained for each of the purified xylanases by gel chromatography of the xylan digests on Bio-Gel P-2. The enzymes degraded arabinoxylan by an endomechanism, producing L-arabinose, D-xylose, xylobiose, and a mixture of branched arabinose-xylose and D-xylose oligosaccharides. All xylanases seemed to be capable of liberating L-arabinose from either arabinoxylan or the arabinose-xylose oligosaccharides. Branched arabinose-containing D-xylose oligosaccharides were slowly hydrolyzed, so that these sugars accumulate in the digest. Two xylanases showed relatively broad substrate specificity and were able to degrade also crystalline cellulose. beta-D-Xylosidase showed optimal activity at pH 6.7 to 7.0 and at 42 degrees C. The Km for o-nitrophenyl-beta-D-xylopyranoside was 0.22 mM and xylotriose was hydrolyzed more rapidly than xylobiose.", "PMID": 455113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11492", "title": "The localization of honey bee thorax trehalase.", "content": "Differential and sucrose gradient centrifugation of honey bee thoraces, disrupted by gentle methods and using mannitol-triethanolamine-EDTA buffer at pH 6.5, showed that in the honey bee thorax 92-94.8% of the trehalase was mitochondrial. Since only 92-95% of the cytochrome c oxidase, a known mitochondrial enzyme, was found in the mitochondrial fraction by these methods, it was concluded that honey bee trehalase is totally mitochondrial. Significant amounts of 'microsomal' or 'soluble' trehalase were formed only by harsh methods of thorax disruption and similar 'microsomal' or 'soluble' trehalases were also formed by harsh treatment of purified whole mitochondria. They thus seem to be artifacts of the isolation procedure. Studies (using marker enzymes) with purified intact mitochondria which were dispersed by various chemical, enzymatic, and physical methods showed that the trehalase in the mitochondria was membrane bound and that it was bound to either the outside of the inner membrane or to one of the sides of the outer membrane.", "contents": "The localization of honey bee thorax trehalase. Differential and sucrose gradient centrifugation of honey bee thoraces, disrupted by gentle methods and using mannitol-triethanolamine-EDTA buffer at pH 6.5, showed that in the honey bee thorax 92-94.8% of the trehalase was mitochondrial. Since only 92-95% of the cytochrome c oxidase, a known mitochondrial enzyme, was found in the mitochondrial fraction by these methods, it was concluded that honey bee trehalase is totally mitochondrial. Significant amounts of 'microsomal' or 'soluble' trehalase were formed only by harsh methods of thorax disruption and similar 'microsomal' or 'soluble' trehalases were also formed by harsh treatment of purified whole mitochondria. They thus seem to be artifacts of the isolation procedure. Studies (using marker enzymes) with purified intact mitochondria which were dispersed by various chemical, enzymatic, and physical methods showed that the trehalase in the mitochondria was membrane bound and that it was bound to either the outside of the inner membrane or to one of the sides of the outer membrane.", "PMID": 455114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11493", "title": "Changes in the net charge and subunit properties of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase--oxygenase during cold hardening of Puma rye.", "content": "Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase--oxygenase (RUBPCase) from leaves of cold-hardened and unhardened Puma rye was purified by gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. The specific activity of the hardened form was twice that of the unhardened form. A difference in charge between the two forms of this enzyme was proved by gel electrofocussing. The estimated isoelectric point (pI) values were 6.4 and 6.3 for the enzyme from the hardened and unhardened source respectively. The large subunit (55,000 molecular weight) of the enzyme from only the unhardened source formed at apparent dimer during sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) gel electrophoresis. At pH 6,8 it was also the source of an anomalous polypeptide with an apparent molecular weight of 47,000. This anomalous polypeptide appeared in both hardened and unhardened preparations after irreversible inactivation of RUBPCase activity by NaCl. It also appeared after preparation of the purified enzymes for SDS--PAGE in the absence of beta-mercaptoethanol, but this was reversible. The enzyme from the hardened source was less affected in the absence of reducing agent. Structural evidence was obtained for the previously reported cold hardening of the enzyme against freeze inactivation. A freeze-thaw cycle applied to the enzyme in vitro caused some polymerization of the large subunit and its anomalous polypeptide, in the absence of reducing agent, especially in the unhardened case. This increased with repeated cycles until the fifth cycle when the large subunit monomer and its satellite were abolished only in preparations from the unhardened source. These data indicate that the large subunit is a probable site of change that occurred in this enzyme during cold hardening.", "contents": "Changes in the net charge and subunit properties of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase--oxygenase during cold hardening of Puma rye. Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase--oxygenase (RUBPCase) from leaves of cold-hardened and unhardened Puma rye was purified by gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. The specific activity of the hardened form was twice that of the unhardened form. A difference in charge between the two forms of this enzyme was proved by gel electrofocussing. The estimated isoelectric point (pI) values were 6.4 and 6.3 for the enzyme from the hardened and unhardened source respectively. The large subunit (55,000 molecular weight) of the enzyme from only the unhardened source formed at apparent dimer during sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) gel electrophoresis. At pH 6,8 it was also the source of an anomalous polypeptide with an apparent molecular weight of 47,000. This anomalous polypeptide appeared in both hardened and unhardened preparations after irreversible inactivation of RUBPCase activity by NaCl. It also appeared after preparation of the purified enzymes for SDS--PAGE in the absence of beta-mercaptoethanol, but this was reversible. The enzyme from the hardened source was less affected in the absence of reducing agent. Structural evidence was obtained for the previously reported cold hardening of the enzyme against freeze inactivation. A freeze-thaw cycle applied to the enzyme in vitro caused some polymerization of the large subunit and its anomalous polypeptide, in the absence of reducing agent, especially in the unhardened case. This increased with repeated cycles until the fifth cycle when the large subunit monomer and its satellite were abolished only in preparations from the unhardened source. These data indicate that the large subunit is a probable site of change that occurred in this enzyme during cold hardening.", "PMID": 455115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11494", "title": "Purification of dihydropterin reductase using immobilized Cibacron Blue.", "content": "Chromatography on columns of immobilized Cibacron Blue (Blue Dextran--agarose) can be used as a major step in the purification of quinonoid dihydropterin reductase. The reductase has been isolated from fractions of beef kidney by selective binding to the immobilized Cibacron in the presence of tetrahydropterin. The binding of the reductase to Blue Dextran and its specific elution from columns of Blue Dextran--agarose indicate that the reductase possesses the dinucleotide (NAD+) binding domain. The results of kinetic experiments give validity to both our affinity chromatography of the reductase and to an ordered mechanism for the formation of tetrahydropterin. Chromatography on Blue Dextran--agarose has been used to show that folate or amethopterin can compete with Cibacron Blue for the dinucleotide domain of the reductase. The p-aminobenzoyl-glutamate moiety of the folates competes with Cibacron Blue for the NADH site of the reductase. A stable binary complex of dihydropterin reductase with NADH has been detected by gel electrophoresis.", "contents": "Purification of dihydropterin reductase using immobilized Cibacron Blue. Chromatography on columns of immobilized Cibacron Blue (Blue Dextran--agarose) can be used as a major step in the purification of quinonoid dihydropterin reductase. The reductase has been isolated from fractions of beef kidney by selective binding to the immobilized Cibacron in the presence of tetrahydropterin. The binding of the reductase to Blue Dextran and its specific elution from columns of Blue Dextran--agarose indicate that the reductase possesses the dinucleotide (NAD+) binding domain. The results of kinetic experiments give validity to both our affinity chromatography of the reductase and to an ordered mechanism for the formation of tetrahydropterin. Chromatography on Blue Dextran--agarose has been used to show that folate or amethopterin can compete with Cibacron Blue for the dinucleotide domain of the reductase. The p-aminobenzoyl-glutamate moiety of the folates competes with Cibacron Blue for the NADH site of the reductase. A stable binary complex of dihydropterin reductase with NADH has been detected by gel electrophoresis.", "PMID": 455116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11495", "title": "Distribution of the multiple molecular forms of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in different physiological states.", "content": "The distribution of the multiple molecular forms of rat liver and mammary gland glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase was determined by electrophoresis on 5% polyacrylamide gels. In both of these organs, changes in the distribution of enzyme activity among the several forms was slight even when approximately 20- to 40-fold changes in enzyme specific activity were achieved by fasting-refeeding experiments (for liver) or during pregnancy and lactation (for mammary gland). It was concluded that the induction of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in these two organs occurs without any major redistribution among the multiple molecular forms of this enzyme.", "contents": "Distribution of the multiple molecular forms of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in different physiological states. The distribution of the multiple molecular forms of rat liver and mammary gland glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase was determined by electrophoresis on 5% polyacrylamide gels. In both of these organs, changes in the distribution of enzyme activity among the several forms was slight even when approximately 20- to 40-fold changes in enzyme specific activity were achieved by fasting-refeeding experiments (for liver) or during pregnancy and lactation (for mammary gland). It was concluded that the induction of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in these two organs occurs without any major redistribution among the multiple molecular forms of this enzyme.", "PMID": 455118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11496", "title": "Phospholipids of the differentiating bacterium Caulobacter crescentus.", "content": "The phospholipid composition of the stalked and swarmer cell types of the differentiating, Gram-negative bacterium Caulobacter crescentus was determined. The phospholipid composition of the stalked cell type was 86.5% phosphatidylglycerol, 10.4% lysylphosphatidylglycerol, and 3.0% cardiolipin; that of the swarmer cell type was 84.1, 11.4, and 4.4% respectively. Phosphatidylethanolamine, which is a major phospholipid component of most Gram-negative bacteria, was totally absent.", "contents": "Phospholipids of the differentiating bacterium Caulobacter crescentus. The phospholipid composition of the stalked and swarmer cell types of the differentiating, Gram-negative bacterium Caulobacter crescentus was determined. The phospholipid composition of the stalked cell type was 86.5% phosphatidylglycerol, 10.4% lysylphosphatidylglycerol, and 3.0% cardiolipin; that of the swarmer cell type was 84.1, 11.4, and 4.4% respectively. Phosphatidylethanolamine, which is a major phospholipid component of most Gram-negative bacteria, was totally absent.", "PMID": 455120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11497", "title": "Effects of ribosomal wash factors and spermidine on endogenous and exogenous mRNA stimulated protein synthesis in the wheat germ cell-free system.", "content": "Differential effects of Mg2+, spermidine, and reticulocyte ribosomal wash factors on the translation of endogenous, myeloma, and globin mRNA's have been observed in studies with the wheat germ cell-free protein synthesizing system. Spermidine stimulated globin mRNA translation but not the translation of endogenous wheat germ messages, and the polyamine actually inhibited the translation of myeloma mRNA. Ribosomal wash factors, on the other hand, stimulated endogenous and myeloma mRNA dependent protein synthesis in an Mg2+-dependent fashion but inhibited globin mRNA translation. The combination of ribosomal wash factors and spermidine was either stimulatory or inhibitory depending on the Mg2+ concentration and the message. It was further observed that translation of exogenous myeloma mRNA proceeded for only 60 min at 25 degrees C under all conditions tested in this study, while translation of endogenous wheat germ messages continued for longer periods of time. No differential effects of spermidine on the synthesis of high molecular weight myeloma proteins were observed.", "contents": "Effects of ribosomal wash factors and spermidine on endogenous and exogenous mRNA stimulated protein synthesis in the wheat germ cell-free system. Differential effects of Mg2+, spermidine, and reticulocyte ribosomal wash factors on the translation of endogenous, myeloma, and globin mRNA's have been observed in studies with the wheat germ cell-free protein synthesizing system. Spermidine stimulated globin mRNA translation but not the translation of endogenous wheat germ messages, and the polyamine actually inhibited the translation of myeloma mRNA. Ribosomal wash factors, on the other hand, stimulated endogenous and myeloma mRNA dependent protein synthesis in an Mg2+-dependent fashion but inhibited globin mRNA translation. The combination of ribosomal wash factors and spermidine was either stimulatory or inhibitory depending on the Mg2+ concentration and the message. It was further observed that translation of exogenous myeloma mRNA proceeded for only 60 min at 25 degrees C under all conditions tested in this study, while translation of endogenous wheat germ messages continued for longer periods of time. No differential effects of spermidine on the synthesis of high molecular weight myeloma proteins were observed.", "PMID": 455121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11498", "title": "Eccentric serous choroidopathy: a case report.", "content": "A patient presented with a serous detachment of the retina outside the macular region in one eye and three years later a similar detachment in the fellow eye. The clinical findings were otherwise identical to those seen in patients with idiopathic central serous choroidopathy. Idiopathic eccentric serous choroidopathy is probably a variant of idiopathic central serous choroidopathy. Its occurrence may be implications in understanding the pathogenesis of the latter condition.", "contents": "Eccentric serous choroidopathy: a case report. A patient presented with a serous detachment of the retina outside the macular region in one eye and three years later a similar detachment in the fellow eye. The clinical findings were otherwise identical to those seen in patients with idiopathic central serous choroidopathy. Idiopathic eccentric serous choroidopathy is probably a variant of idiopathic central serous choroidopathy. Its occurrence may be implications in understanding the pathogenesis of the latter condition.", "PMID": 455123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11499", "title": "Congenital abnormalities of lacrimal drainage: management of difficult cases.", "content": "Various congenital anomalies of the lacrimal drainage system are described against the background of normal development and their effective management is outlined.", "contents": "Congenital abnormalities of lacrimal drainage: management of difficult cases. Various congenital anomalies of the lacrimal drainage system are described against the background of normal development and their effective management is outlined.", "PMID": 455124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11500", "title": "The surgical management of macular pucker.", "content": "Contractions of collagenous membranes in the posterior cortical vitreous may produce macular pucker and loss of central vision. It is possible to separate these membranes from the retina, and if one succeeds in doing so there is reasonable improvement in central visison. Between December 1976 and September 1978, six patients with macular pucker were operated upon. The clinical details and results are described. The technique used was that of Machemer with the modifications demanded by use of the Kl\u00f6ti vitreous stipper. Several different instruments were used for dissection, the most useful being the joint knife used in stapedectomy.", "contents": "The surgical management of macular pucker. Contractions of collagenous membranes in the posterior cortical vitreous may produce macular pucker and loss of central vision. It is possible to separate these membranes from the retina, and if one succeeds in doing so there is reasonable improvement in central visison. Between December 1976 and September 1978, six patients with macular pucker were operated upon. The clinical details and results are described. The technique used was that of Machemer with the modifications demanded by use of the Kl\u00f6ti vitreous stipper. Several different instruments were used for dissection, the most useful being the joint knife used in stapedectomy.", "PMID": 455125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11501", "title": "Does the number of cells in the cornea decrease with age? A biochemical study.", "content": "We used biochemical techniques to investigate whether the cornea becomes more acellular with age. Guinea pigs of different body weights (age) were killed. From each cornea, a central full-thickness button (4 mm in diameter) was punched out. The DNA content of the corneal buttons was determined. Using spleen cells, the DNA content per diploid cell of guinea pig was also estimated. It was found that as the body weights of the animals increased, the amount of DNA per corneal disc decreased. This indicated that as the animal grows older the total cellular content of the cornea is reduced.", "contents": "Does the number of cells in the cornea decrease with age? A biochemical study. We used biochemical techniques to investigate whether the cornea becomes more acellular with age. Guinea pigs of different body weights (age) were killed. From each cornea, a central full-thickness button (4 mm in diameter) was punched out. The DNA content of the corneal buttons was determined. Using spleen cells, the DNA content per diploid cell of guinea pig was also estimated. It was found that as the body weights of the animals increased, the amount of DNA per corneal disc decreased. This indicated that as the animal grows older the total cellular content of the cornea is reduced.", "PMID": 455126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11502", "title": "Epithelial downgrowth following cataract extraction.", "content": "This case of epithelial downgrowth following cataract extraction shows the typical sequence of a noneventful cataract extraction with satisfactory recovery but after a time, the appearance of conjunctival injection, iritis and attacks of elevated ocular pressure. A minimal membrane on the posterior surface of the cornea could be seen but the diagnosis rested on the sequence of events and was confirmed by the pathologic investigation. The apithelial cells grow freely on the iris, but extend onto the cornea and posteriorly apparently without hindrance. The epithelial cells form a basement membrane next to the iris, much as they do on the surface of the cornea next to Bowman's membrane. The source of the cells in this case was not identified; they presumably came from conjunctiva although no track through the sclera was found and the cells themselves did not show goblet cells.", "contents": "Epithelial downgrowth following cataract extraction. This case of epithelial downgrowth following cataract extraction shows the typical sequence of a noneventful cataract extraction with satisfactory recovery but after a time, the appearance of conjunctival injection, iritis and attacks of elevated ocular pressure. A minimal membrane on the posterior surface of the cornea could be seen but the diagnosis rested on the sequence of events and was confirmed by the pathologic investigation. The apithelial cells grow freely on the iris, but extend onto the cornea and posteriorly apparently without hindrance. The epithelial cells form a basement membrane next to the iris, much as they do on the surface of the cornea next to Bowman's membrane. The source of the cells in this case was not identified; they presumably came from conjunctiva although no track through the sclera was found and the cells themselves did not show goblet cells.", "PMID": 455127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11503", "title": "Malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva after 11 years.", "content": "A 76-year-old lady presented with a conjunctival malignant melanoma, which had been incompletely excised 10 years earlier. After rapid and massive growth of the tumor, which was later removed along with the globe, there was no evidence of local or systemic recurrence during 22 months of observation until the patient died of unknown causes. Pathological examination of the ocular tissues obtained at operation showed intraocular extension of tumor into Schlemm's canal and the presence of tumor cells in vascular channels in the limbal region.", "contents": "Malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva after 11 years. A 76-year-old lady presented with a conjunctival malignant melanoma, which had been incompletely excised 10 years earlier. After rapid and massive growth of the tumor, which was later removed along with the globe, there was no evidence of local or systemic recurrence during 22 months of observation until the patient died of unknown causes. Pathological examination of the ocular tissues obtained at operation showed intraocular extension of tumor into Schlemm's canal and the presence of tumor cells in vascular channels in the limbal region.", "PMID": 455128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11504", "title": "The nasal step in normal and glaucomatous visual fields.", "content": "We used an original method of kinetic and static analysis to examine the nasal visual field. When the nasal step is less than 4 degrees wide and its depth is less than 0.5 log units it may be merely a physiological sign of the anatomic and functional asymmetry of the retina. Sometimes it is an artifact. The nasal step can also be a glaucomatous defect. In this case it is often an early sign and it is wider than 4 degrees and its depth is greater than 0.5 log units. Because of its typical shape and invariable location it is easy to discover by kinetic perimetry and easy to check by static perimetry. If it is an early glaucomatous defect, it can be reversed. In practice the nasal step is an early and characteristic glaucomatous field defect like the isolated scotomas in the Bjerrum area, and it is easily detected and can be used as a sensitive marker in the follow up of glaucomatous damage.", "contents": "The nasal step in normal and glaucomatous visual fields. We used an original method of kinetic and static analysis to examine the nasal visual field. When the nasal step is less than 4 degrees wide and its depth is less than 0.5 log units it may be merely a physiological sign of the anatomic and functional asymmetry of the retina. Sometimes it is an artifact. The nasal step can also be a glaucomatous defect. In this case it is often an early sign and it is wider than 4 degrees and its depth is greater than 0.5 log units. Because of its typical shape and invariable location it is easy to discover by kinetic perimetry and easy to check by static perimetry. If it is an early glaucomatous defect, it can be reversed. In practice the nasal step is an early and characteristic glaucomatous field defect like the isolated scotomas in the Bjerrum area, and it is easily detected and can be used as a sensitive marker in the follow up of glaucomatous damage.", "PMID": 455132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11505", "title": "Total transient visual loss and orbital foreign bodies.", "content": "Two children recovered vision after penetrating injury of the orbit by wood had produced sudden blindness. Absent light perception demands urgent action as early visual loss does not necessarily indicate a poor prognosis. The depth and direction of penetration and size of wooden fragments is difficult to assess clinically and radiologically. Immediate and delayed neurological complications should always be anticipated. Removal of all fragments of wood is of paramount importance in restoring visual acuity. Prolonged visual loss with symptoms and signs of retained foreign body demands vigorous management.", "contents": "Total transient visual loss and orbital foreign bodies. Two children recovered vision after penetrating injury of the orbit by wood had produced sudden blindness. Absent light perception demands urgent action as early visual loss does not necessarily indicate a poor prognosis. The depth and direction of penetration and size of wooden fragments is difficult to assess clinically and radiologically. Immediate and delayed neurological complications should always be anticipated. Removal of all fragments of wood is of paramount importance in restoring visual acuity. Prolonged visual loss with symptoms and signs of retained foreign body demands vigorous management.", "PMID": 455133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11506", "title": "Unit activity in the superior colliculus of the cat following passive eye movements.", "content": "Unit response in the superior colliculus and underlying structures has been examined in the choralose-anaesthetized cat following passive movement of an occluded eye. One group of units was sensitive to small saccadic movements, responded regardless of the initial postion of the eye, and in most instances responded to movements in opposit directions. A second numerically smaller group also responded when they eye was moved at saccadic velocity but only when the eye passed a fixed point. Such units with fixed positional thresholds were found following movements in both nasal and temporal directions as well as to both upward and downward movement. Both types of unit response were found after transection of the optic nerve and were also recorded when individual extraocular muscles were subjected to controlled stretch. It is assumed that most unit activity seen after passive movement of the occluded eye is due to activity in extraocular muscle receptors. In the deep layers of the superior colliculus responses to small eye movements were found to be due to the activation of very low threshold receptors sensitive to vibration in the facial area.", "contents": "Unit activity in the superior colliculus of the cat following passive eye movements. Unit response in the superior colliculus and underlying structures has been examined in the choralose-anaesthetized cat following passive movement of an occluded eye. One group of units was sensitive to small saccadic movements, responded regardless of the initial postion of the eye, and in most instances responded to movements in opposit directions. A second numerically smaller group also responded when they eye was moved at saccadic velocity but only when the eye passed a fixed point. Such units with fixed positional thresholds were found following movements in both nasal and temporal directions as well as to both upward and downward movement. Both types of unit response were found after transection of the optic nerve and were also recorded when individual extraocular muscles were subjected to controlled stretch. It is assumed that most unit activity seen after passive movement of the occluded eye is due to activity in extraocular muscle receptors. In the deep layers of the superior colliculus responses to small eye movements were found to be due to the activation of very low threshold receptors sensitive to vibration in the facial area.", "PMID": 455135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11507", "title": "Receptors for bradykinin and kallidin.", "content": "In order to establish if bradykinin (BK) and Lys-bradykinin (Lys-BK), alias kallidin, act on the same or on different receptors, experiments were performed on strips of cat terminal ileum and of rabbit aorta. The first preparation contains receptor B2 and the second has the newly identified receptor B1. The criterion used for establishing the identity of receptors for BK and Lys-BK in the cat ileum (receptor B2) was desensitization, while for the rabbit aorta (receptor B1) we measured the apparent affinity (pA2 value) of a competitive and specific inhibitor of BK, [Leu-OMe3,des-Arg9]-BK. Since cat ileum desensitized with BK or Lys-BK shows a significant decrease or a complete disappearance of the response to the other agent, while maintaining full sensitivity for histamine, and since the pA2 values of [Leu-OMe8,des-Arg9]-BK against BK and Lys-BK are identical in the rabbit aorta, we conclude that the two kinins act on the same types of receptors.", "contents": "Receptors for bradykinin and kallidin. In order to establish if bradykinin (BK) and Lys-bradykinin (Lys-BK), alias kallidin, act on the same or on different receptors, experiments were performed on strips of cat terminal ileum and of rabbit aorta. The first preparation contains receptor B2 and the second has the newly identified receptor B1. The criterion used for establishing the identity of receptors for BK and Lys-BK in the cat ileum (receptor B2) was desensitization, while for the rabbit aorta (receptor B1) we measured the apparent affinity (pA2 value) of a competitive and specific inhibitor of BK, [Leu-OMe3,des-Arg9]-BK. Since cat ileum desensitized with BK or Lys-BK shows a significant decrease or a complete disappearance of the response to the other agent, while maintaining full sensitivity for histamine, and since the pA2 values of [Leu-OMe8,des-Arg9]-BK against BK and Lys-BK are identical in the rabbit aorta, we conclude that the two kinins act on the same types of receptors.", "PMID": 455136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11508", "title": "Blood dopamine beta-hydroxylase activity and noradrenaline levels in the developing white rat.", "content": "Dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) (3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine, ascorbate:oxygen oxidoreductase (beta-hydroxylating) (EC 1.14.17.1) activity in serum of blood obtained by decapitation of white rats at 19, 20, and 21 days in utero, immediately after birth, and postnatally to 70 days, was measured. Noradrenaline (NA) and DBH in plasma from undisturbed, cannulated, postweaning rats were also assayed. During the last few days in utero and the first 2 postnatal days serum DBH activity tripled and then remained elevated during the suckling period. Upon weaning, serum DBH activity declined at first precipitously and then more slowly, until the adult level was reached around 70 days of age. This postweaning decrease in DBH activity was also observed with the cannulated animals. In contrast, plasma NA levels remained low and constant throughout the postweaning period. In suckling rats treated with 6-hydroxydopamine from 2 to 12 days of age, serum DBH activity decreased to less than half its initial value by day 8. It is suggested that the observed changes in serum DBH activity in fetal and postnatal rats reflect ontogenetic changes in sympathetic nerve terminals and that they are probably not correlated with release of NA.", "contents": "Blood dopamine beta-hydroxylase activity and noradrenaline levels in the developing white rat. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) (3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine, ascorbate:oxygen oxidoreductase (beta-hydroxylating) (EC 1.14.17.1) activity in serum of blood obtained by decapitation of white rats at 19, 20, and 21 days in utero, immediately after birth, and postnatally to 70 days, was measured. Noradrenaline (NA) and DBH in plasma from undisturbed, cannulated, postweaning rats were also assayed. During the last few days in utero and the first 2 postnatal days serum DBH activity tripled and then remained elevated during the suckling period. Upon weaning, serum DBH activity declined at first precipitously and then more slowly, until the adult level was reached around 70 days of age. This postweaning decrease in DBH activity was also observed with the cannulated animals. In contrast, plasma NA levels remained low and constant throughout the postweaning period. In suckling rats treated with 6-hydroxydopamine from 2 to 12 days of age, serum DBH activity decreased to less than half its initial value by day 8. It is suggested that the observed changes in serum DBH activity in fetal and postnatal rats reflect ontogenetic changes in sympathetic nerve terminals and that they are probably not correlated with release of NA.", "PMID": 455137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11509", "title": "The time course of brain and blood catecholamines, catechol O-methyltransferase, and amino acids in rats convulsed by oxygen at high pressure.", "content": "The time course of changes in blood and brain catecholamines, catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT), ammonia, and amino acids leading to convulsion by high pressure oxygen breathing (OHP) in rats has been investigated. Brain catecholamines were suppressed by OHP. They changed in phase with brain COMT concentration and consequently were not due to the action of this degrading enzyme. Convulsive actions seem not to be influenced by brain catecholamine concentration. Blood adrenaline concentrations are, however, significantly elevated both prior to and during convulsions. In both brain and blood, ammonia concentration increases, glutamate decreases, and glutamine-aspargine increases. It is proposed that the efficacy of the glutamate-glutamine ammonia buffering system in blood and brain is important in the prevention of the onset of convulsions but that when brain gamma-aminobutyric acid is depressed to critical levels, convulsions result.", "contents": "The time course of brain and blood catecholamines, catechol O-methyltransferase, and amino acids in rats convulsed by oxygen at high pressure. The time course of changes in blood and brain catecholamines, catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT), ammonia, and amino acids leading to convulsion by high pressure oxygen breathing (OHP) in rats has been investigated. Brain catecholamines were suppressed by OHP. They changed in phase with brain COMT concentration and consequently were not due to the action of this degrading enzyme. Convulsive actions seem not to be influenced by brain catecholamine concentration. Blood adrenaline concentrations are, however, significantly elevated both prior to and during convulsions. In both brain and blood, ammonia concentration increases, glutamate decreases, and glutamine-aspargine increases. It is proposed that the efficacy of the glutamate-glutamine ammonia buffering system in blood and brain is important in the prevention of the onset of convulsions but that when brain gamma-aminobutyric acid is depressed to critical levels, convulsions result.", "PMID": 455139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11510", "title": "[The effect of estradiol benzoate on liver function, cholesterol metabolism and bile acids in the quail].", "content": "Immature female quails were treated for 6 days with estradiol benzoate at daily 0.01-, 0.02-, 0.01-, and 1-mg dosages. At the end of treatment, bile outflow, biliary cholesterol (CST), and bile acid (BA) secretory rates and liver, bile, and serum CST and BA levels were determined. Some quails were used to measure the ratio (R) of the rates of intravenously injected [2-14C]acetate radioactivity incorporation in cholic (C) and chenodeoxycholic (CDC) acids excreted in bile. The oestrogenic treatments at doses greater than 0.01 mg/day caused a marked disturbance in hepatic function and in CST and BA metabolism: they induced an increase in relative liver weight, liver CST stores, serum CST, C, CDC, and SGOT levels and in choleresis (respectively up to 56, 57, 650, 6000, 700, 42, and 235% increase at the daily 0.1-mg dosage) and they decreased bile total BA and CDC levels, bile and serum CDC to C level ratios, and R ratio (by 71, 82, 69, 84, and 58%, respectively). An increase in the bile salts independent fraction of bile was responsible for hypercholeresis, whether alone at low dosage or in conjunction with other factors at higher dosage. These results are compared with those obtained in mammals, particularly in the rat.", "contents": "[The effect of estradiol benzoate on liver function, cholesterol metabolism and bile acids in the quail]. Immature female quails were treated for 6 days with estradiol benzoate at daily 0.01-, 0.02-, 0.01-, and 1-mg dosages. At the end of treatment, bile outflow, biliary cholesterol (CST), and bile acid (BA) secretory rates and liver, bile, and serum CST and BA levels were determined. Some quails were used to measure the ratio (R) of the rates of intravenously injected [2-14C]acetate radioactivity incorporation in cholic (C) and chenodeoxycholic (CDC) acids excreted in bile. The oestrogenic treatments at doses greater than 0.01 mg/day caused a marked disturbance in hepatic function and in CST and BA metabolism: they induced an increase in relative liver weight, liver CST stores, serum CST, C, CDC, and SGOT levels and in choleresis (respectively up to 56, 57, 650, 6000, 700, 42, and 235% increase at the daily 0.1-mg dosage) and they decreased bile total BA and CDC levels, bile and serum CDC to C level ratios, and R ratio (by 71, 82, 69, 84, and 58%, respectively). An increase in the bile salts independent fraction of bile was responsible for hypercholeresis, whether alone at low dosage or in conjunction with other factors at higher dosage. These results are compared with those obtained in mammals, particularly in the rat.", "PMID": 455140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11511", "title": "The effects of muscarinic receptor blockers on the turnover rate of acetylcholine in various regions of the rat brain.", "content": "The actions of antimuscarinic agents (benztropine, trihexyphenidyl, and scopolamine) on the dynamics of acetylcholine (ACh) in central cholinergic neurons were examined in various rat brain areas. It was found that the pattern of changes in ACh turnover (TRACh) elicited by these drugs exhibited marked regional variations. After administration of the anticholinergic drugs, the TRACh in hippocampus and thalamus was increased, in cortex it was decreased, and in striatum it was unchanged. ACh concentration in the cortex and striatum was decreased while in hippocampus and thalamus ACh levels were unaltered. Further analysis of the cholinergic septo-hippocampal pathway using lesions of the fimbria-fornix and local drug injections into the septum argue against an in vivo action of these drugs on presynaptic or cell body muscarinic autoreceptors. Moreover, the data suggest that muscarinic receptor blockers cause an increased TRACh only in those areas where a feedback loop is operative, possibly by inhibiting a neuronal feedback loop involving at least one noncholinergic interneuron.", "contents": "The effects of muscarinic receptor blockers on the turnover rate of acetylcholine in various regions of the rat brain. The actions of antimuscarinic agents (benztropine, trihexyphenidyl, and scopolamine) on the dynamics of acetylcholine (ACh) in central cholinergic neurons were examined in various rat brain areas. It was found that the pattern of changes in ACh turnover (TRACh) elicited by these drugs exhibited marked regional variations. After administration of the anticholinergic drugs, the TRACh in hippocampus and thalamus was increased, in cortex it was decreased, and in striatum it was unchanged. ACh concentration in the cortex and striatum was decreased while in hippocampus and thalamus ACh levels were unaltered. Further analysis of the cholinergic septo-hippocampal pathway using lesions of the fimbria-fornix and local drug injections into the septum argue against an in vivo action of these drugs on presynaptic or cell body muscarinic autoreceptors. Moreover, the data suggest that muscarinic receptor blockers cause an increased TRACh only in those areas where a feedback loop is operative, possibly by inhibiting a neuronal feedback loop involving at least one noncholinergic interneuron.", "PMID": 455141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11512", "title": "Serum MSH levels and pituitary MSH content: their fluctuation during pregnancy in the rat.", "content": "MSH was measured by a biological assay in the pituitary and serum of the rat during the whole term of pregnancy. The peptide showed changes in early pregnancy in serum, during the middle of pregnancy values of serum MSH became negative, and in late pregnancy it was possible to find high values during days 18 and 19 before delivery. Comparison between the amount of pituitary MSH and that in serum seems to show that between days 10 and 15 there is practically no, or just a litte, MSH synthesis, since the MSH values in serum are negative although the content of pituitary MSH is also low. A relation between the results found by other authors and that found by us was analyzed.", "contents": "Serum MSH levels and pituitary MSH content: their fluctuation during pregnancy in the rat. MSH was measured by a biological assay in the pituitary and serum of the rat during the whole term of pregnancy. The peptide showed changes in early pregnancy in serum, during the middle of pregnancy values of serum MSH became negative, and in late pregnancy it was possible to find high values during days 18 and 19 before delivery. Comparison between the amount of pituitary MSH and that in serum seems to show that between days 10 and 15 there is practically no, or just a litte, MSH synthesis, since the MSH values in serum are negative although the content of pituitary MSH is also low. A relation between the results found by other authors and that found by us was analyzed.", "PMID": 455143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11513", "title": "Pharmacological evidence for catecholamine-independent contractile effects of X-537A on the isolated working rat heart preparation.", "content": "The ionophore X-537A increased heart rate and contractility of the isolated, working rat heart preparation. The increased heart rate appeared to be caused solely by release of catecholamines as the response was completely eliminated by reserpine pretreatment or addition of propranolol to the perfusate. The inotropic response, however, had an apparent catecholamine-independent component as neither propranolol, nor propranol in combination with phentolamine, completely eliminated the inotropic response to X-537A. On the other hand, reserpine pretreatment did abolish the inotropic effect of the ionophore but this action appeared to be a nonspecific one as the responses to norepinephrine and to CaCl2 were substantially diminished.", "contents": "Pharmacological evidence for catecholamine-independent contractile effects of X-537A on the isolated working rat heart preparation. The ionophore X-537A increased heart rate and contractility of the isolated, working rat heart preparation. The increased heart rate appeared to be caused solely by release of catecholamines as the response was completely eliminated by reserpine pretreatment or addition of propranolol to the perfusate. The inotropic response, however, had an apparent catecholamine-independent component as neither propranolol, nor propranol in combination with phentolamine, completely eliminated the inotropic response to X-537A. On the other hand, reserpine pretreatment did abolish the inotropic effect of the ionophore but this action appeared to be a nonspecific one as the responses to norepinephrine and to CaCl2 were substantially diminished.", "PMID": 455144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11514", "title": "Interaction of antidepressants with clonidine on rat brain total 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol.", "content": "The effects of some antidepressants on brain total 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) were studied in the rat. Desipramine decreased and mianserine increased the brain total MHPG concentration while the other antidepressants had no effect. They were also the only antidepressants that attenuated the lowering action of clonidine on brain total MHPG, but possibly through different mechanisms. Two tertiary amine tricyclic antidepressants, amitriptyline and imipramine, appeared to enhance the lowering action of clonidine on brain total MHPG. The results suggest that antidepressants are heterogeneous in their action on brain noradrenergic mechanisms in the rat.", "contents": "Interaction of antidepressants with clonidine on rat brain total 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol. The effects of some antidepressants on brain total 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) were studied in the rat. Desipramine decreased and mianserine increased the brain total MHPG concentration while the other antidepressants had no effect. They were also the only antidepressants that attenuated the lowering action of clonidine on brain total MHPG, but possibly through different mechanisms. Two tertiary amine tricyclic antidepressants, amitriptyline and imipramine, appeared to enhance the lowering action of clonidine on brain total MHPG. The results suggest that antidepressants are heterogeneous in their action on brain noradrenergic mechanisms in the rat.", "PMID": 455145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11515", "title": "Norepinephrine concentration in kidneys of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats.", "content": "Renal norepinephrine (NE) concentration was measured in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) at 7, 9, 11, and 13 weeks of age. Although the weight of kidneys was similar in the two strains of rats, renal NE concentration was significantly lower in SHR at all ages (147 +/- 9 to 175 +/- 13 ng/g for SHR, and 216 +/- 8 to 262 +/- 17 ng/g for WKY rats). The difference in renal NE concentration during this time of rapidly increasing arterial pressure in the SHR suggests that renal NE may in some way be related to the development of hypertension.", "contents": "Norepinephrine concentration in kidneys of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats. Renal norepinephrine (NE) concentration was measured in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) at 7, 9, 11, and 13 weeks of age. Although the weight of kidneys was similar in the two strains of rats, renal NE concentration was significantly lower in SHR at all ages (147 +/- 9 to 175 +/- 13 ng/g for SHR, and 216 +/- 8 to 262 +/- 17 ng/g for WKY rats). The difference in renal NE concentration during this time of rapidly increasing arterial pressure in the SHR suggests that renal NE may in some way be related to the development of hypertension.", "PMID": 455146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11516", "title": "Isolation of a non-tumor-inducing mutant of the Ti plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B6.", "content": "A nonpathogenic mutant of Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B6 was isolated and its properties compared with the parental strain in an effort to localize the mutation. Both B6 and its mutant (B6-95) had similar colony color and morphology, were ketolactose positive, utilized octopine, and contained plasmid DNA. Kinetic analysis of DNA reannealing showed that total DNA homology and plasmid DNA homology between B6 and B6-95 was at least 90%. The length of both plasmids was found to be 58 micrometer. Plasmid DNA from both B6 and the mutant was digested with endonucleases and the fragments separated by agarose gel electrophoresis. In all cases the pattern for B6 was identical with that of B6(-95). The Ti plasmid from B6 and the mutant was transferred to an avirulent, plasmidless strain of A. tumefaciens by in vitro conjugation and transformation. All of the B6 transconjugants and transformants were virulent, whereas all of the mutant transconjugants and transformants were avirulent. Electrophoretic patterns of endonuclease-digested plasmid DNA from transformants were identical to those of plasmid DNA from B6. Therefore, we conclude that the virulence mutation lies on the Ti plasmid.", "contents": "Isolation of a non-tumor-inducing mutant of the Ti plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B6. A nonpathogenic mutant of Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B6 was isolated and its properties compared with the parental strain in an effort to localize the mutation. Both B6 and its mutant (B6-95) had similar colony color and morphology, were ketolactose positive, utilized octopine, and contained plasmid DNA. Kinetic analysis of DNA reannealing showed that total DNA homology and plasmid DNA homology between B6 and B6-95 was at least 90%. The length of both plasmids was found to be 58 micrometer. Plasmid DNA from both B6 and the mutant was digested with endonucleases and the fragments separated by agarose gel electrophoresis. In all cases the pattern for B6 was identical with that of B6(-95). The Ti plasmid from B6 and the mutant was transferred to an avirulent, plasmidless strain of A. tumefaciens by in vitro conjugation and transformation. All of the B6 transconjugants and transformants were virulent, whereas all of the mutant transconjugants and transformants were avirulent. Electrophoretic patterns of endonuclease-digested plasmid DNA from transformants were identical to those of plasmid DNA from B6. Therefore, we conclude that the virulence mutation lies on the Ti plasmid.", "PMID": 455147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11517", "title": "Phenotypic reversion of nitrogenase in pleiotropic mutants of Rhizobium meliloti.", "content": "In two out of three pleiotropic mutants of Rhizobium meliloti, defective in nitrate reductase induced by amino acid utilization in vegetative bacteria and in symbiotic nitrogen fixation, nitrogenase activity could be restored completely by purines and partially by the amino acids L-glutamate, L-aspartate, L-glutamine, and L-asparagine. The compounds restoring effectiveness in nitrogen fixation did not restore nitrate reductase activity in vegetative bacteria. The restoration of effectiveness supports our earlier conclusion that the mutation is not in the structural gene for a suggested common subunit of nitrogenase and nitrate reductase.", "contents": "Phenotypic reversion of nitrogenase in pleiotropic mutants of Rhizobium meliloti. In two out of three pleiotropic mutants of Rhizobium meliloti, defective in nitrate reductase induced by amino acid utilization in vegetative bacteria and in symbiotic nitrogen fixation, nitrogenase activity could be restored completely by purines and partially by the amino acids L-glutamate, L-aspartate, L-glutamine, and L-asparagine. The compounds restoring effectiveness in nitrogen fixation did not restore nitrate reductase activity in vegetative bacteria. The restoration of effectiveness supports our earlier conclusion that the mutation is not in the structural gene for a suggested common subunit of nitrogenase and nitrate reductase.", "PMID": 455148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11518", "title": "Plasmid-determined 2-hydroxypyridine utilization by Arthrobacter crystallopoietes.", "content": "Arthrobacter crystallopoietes has the ability to utilize 2-hydroxypyridine (2-HP) as a source of carbon and nitrogen and forms a blue extracellular pigment when grown in the presence of 2-HP. Ultracentrifugal analyses of pigment producing (Pig+) and pigment nonproducing (Pig-) strains of A. crystallopoietes revealed the presence of plasmid material in both strains. Recovery of plasmid DNA from Pig+ strains is two or three times greater than from Pig- strains. The molecular weight of plasmid DNA recovered from Pig+ strains (62 Mdaltons) is slightly higher than the molecular weight of plasmid DNA from Pig- strains. Consistent with the characterization of plasmid DNA from the two strains is that Pig+ strains contain a 63-Mdalton plasmid encoding 2-HP utilization as well as a cryptic plasmid of very nearly equal molecular weight. Pig- strains contain only the cryptic plasmid.", "contents": "Plasmid-determined 2-hydroxypyridine utilization by Arthrobacter crystallopoietes. Arthrobacter crystallopoietes has the ability to utilize 2-hydroxypyridine (2-HP) as a source of carbon and nitrogen and forms a blue extracellular pigment when grown in the presence of 2-HP. Ultracentrifugal analyses of pigment producing (Pig+) and pigment nonproducing (Pig-) strains of A. crystallopoietes revealed the presence of plasmid material in both strains. Recovery of plasmid DNA from Pig+ strains is two or three times greater than from Pig- strains. The molecular weight of plasmid DNA recovered from Pig+ strains (62 Mdaltons) is slightly higher than the molecular weight of plasmid DNA from Pig- strains. Consistent with the characterization of plasmid DNA from the two strains is that Pig+ strains contain a 63-Mdalton plasmid encoding 2-HP utilization as well as a cryptic plasmid of very nearly equal molecular weight. Pig- strains contain only the cryptic plasmid.", "PMID": 455149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11519", "title": "Nitrogen fixation by Rhizobium sp. 32H1. A morphological and ultrastructural comparison of asymbiotic and symbiotic nitrogen-fixing forms.", "content": "The induction of nitrogenase (C2H2) activity in asymbiotically cultured Rhizobium sp. 32H1 was found to be associated with morphological changes in the cells which were more pronounced than those seen in bacteroids. Polyphosphate granules were found in both bacteroids and cultured cells, but poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate vesicles were almost absent in bacteroids but were present in cultured cells. Freeze-etching techniques revealed no differences between the asymbiotically cultured nitrogen-fixing forms and bacteroids in that both the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane cleavage planes were normal for gram-negative bacteria.", "contents": "Nitrogen fixation by Rhizobium sp. 32H1. A morphological and ultrastructural comparison of asymbiotic and symbiotic nitrogen-fixing forms. The induction of nitrogenase (C2H2) activity in asymbiotically cultured Rhizobium sp. 32H1 was found to be associated with morphological changes in the cells which were more pronounced than those seen in bacteroids. Polyphosphate granules were found in both bacteroids and cultured cells, but poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate vesicles were almost absent in bacteroids but were present in cultured cells. Freeze-etching techniques revealed no differences between the asymbiotically cultured nitrogen-fixing forms and bacteroids in that both the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane cleavage planes were normal for gram-negative bacteria.", "PMID": 455150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11520", "title": "The effects of temperature, incubation atmosphere, and medium composition on arthrospore formation in the fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes.", "content": "Several growth conditions were found to allow abundant arthrospore formation in T. mentagrophytes. These included growth at 32--37 degrees C on Sabouraud's medium (1% neopeptone, 4% glucose) and growth at temperatures below 32 degrees C solely on neopeptone or other complex peptide sources without the addition of glucose, a supplementary carbon source. Sabouraud's medium did not allow arthropsore formation at 30 degrees C under normal atmospheric conditions. However, if oxygen tension were reduced by partial replacement of air with either N2 or CO2 arthrosporulation did occur on Sabouraud's medium at 30 degrees C. The rate of germ tube elongation was lower under those conditions which supported arthrospore formation, suggesting a correlation between decreased rate of hyphal extension and arthrospore formation. Stimulation of arthrospore formation by sublethal concentrations of several antifungal agents tends to support this hypothesis.", "contents": "The effects of temperature, incubation atmosphere, and medium composition on arthrospore formation in the fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Several growth conditions were found to allow abundant arthrospore formation in T. mentagrophytes. These included growth at 32--37 degrees C on Sabouraud's medium (1% neopeptone, 4% glucose) and growth at temperatures below 32 degrees C solely on neopeptone or other complex peptide sources without the addition of glucose, a supplementary carbon source. Sabouraud's medium did not allow arthropsore formation at 30 degrees C under normal atmospheric conditions. However, if oxygen tension were reduced by partial replacement of air with either N2 or CO2 arthrosporulation did occur on Sabouraud's medium at 30 degrees C. The rate of germ tube elongation was lower under those conditions which supported arthrospore formation, suggesting a correlation between decreased rate of hyphal extension and arthrospore formation. Stimulation of arthrospore formation by sublethal concentrations of several antifungal agents tends to support this hypothesis.", "PMID": 455151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11521", "title": "Bacteriocins of phytopathogenic Corynebacterium species.", "content": "The majority (85% of all strains tested) of 12 phytopathogenic Corynebacterium species produced bacteriocin(s) on nutrient broth--yeast extract (NBY) medium. All C. nebraskense, C. michiganense, C. insidiosum, C. oortii, and C. iranicum strains produced bacteriocin(s). The optimal conditions for production of 23 distinct bacteriocins by eight species of Corynebacterium generally were 20 degrees C and 4 days of incubation on NBY or on modified Burkholder's agar that lacked peptone (MBAL). Production in liquid was marginal and not augmented by adding mitomycin C. Bacteriocins generally had little effect on other strains within a species but were inhibitory to other species. Most bacteriocins appeared to be bactericidal proteins resistant to heat (75 to 80 degrees C, 30 min) but sensitive to proteolytic enzymes. Some strains of C. nebraskense, C. michiganense, C. insidiosum, and C. flaccumfaciens produced two bacteriocins which were clearly differentiated by varying or testing one or more of the following: conditions for production, the indicator, heat stability, and susceptibility to proteolysis. Within certain limitations, a convenient and reproducible typing scheme was devised for strain and species differentiation of most phytopathogenic corynebacteria.", "contents": "Bacteriocins of phytopathogenic Corynebacterium species. The majority (85% of all strains tested) of 12 phytopathogenic Corynebacterium species produced bacteriocin(s) on nutrient broth--yeast extract (NBY) medium. All C. nebraskense, C. michiganense, C. insidiosum, C. oortii, and C. iranicum strains produced bacteriocin(s). The optimal conditions for production of 23 distinct bacteriocins by eight species of Corynebacterium generally were 20 degrees C and 4 days of incubation on NBY or on modified Burkholder's agar that lacked peptone (MBAL). Production in liquid was marginal and not augmented by adding mitomycin C. Bacteriocins generally had little effect on other strains within a species but were inhibitory to other species. Most bacteriocins appeared to be bactericidal proteins resistant to heat (75 to 80 degrees C, 30 min) but sensitive to proteolytic enzymes. Some strains of C. nebraskense, C. michiganense, C. insidiosum, and C. flaccumfaciens produced two bacteriocins which were clearly differentiated by varying or testing one or more of the following: conditions for production, the indicator, heat stability, and susceptibility to proteolysis. Within certain limitations, a convenient and reproducible typing scheme was devised for strain and species differentiation of most phytopathogenic corynebacteria.", "PMID": 455152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11522", "title": "Polyadenylate-containing RNA in dormant and germinating Botryodiplodia theobromae pycnidiospores.", "content": "Hybridization of [3H]polyuridylic acid to RNA isolated from Botryodiplodia theobromae pycnidiospores yielded an estimate of about 6.25 x 10(5) polyadenylate-containing RNA (poly A(+) RNA) molecules per dormant spore. The number increased about fourfold by the time of germ tube emergence at 3 h. The average size of this presumed mRNA was about 4.1 x 10(5) daltons (1275 nucleotides), with an average polyadenylate segment length of 26 nucleotides. Neither of these values changed significantly during germination. The earliest detectable (first 30 min of germination) de novo synthesized mRNA's were rapidly incorporated into polyribosomes. This newly synthesized, presumably functional, mRNA was composed of both poly A(+) RNA and polyadenylate-lacking RNA. The average sizes of the two polyribosomal mRNA subpopulations and the total poly A(+) RNA population were identical.", "contents": "Polyadenylate-containing RNA in dormant and germinating Botryodiplodia theobromae pycnidiospores. Hybridization of [3H]polyuridylic acid to RNA isolated from Botryodiplodia theobromae pycnidiospores yielded an estimate of about 6.25 x 10(5) polyadenylate-containing RNA (poly A(+) RNA) molecules per dormant spore. The number increased about fourfold by the time of germ tube emergence at 3 h. The average size of this presumed mRNA was about 4.1 x 10(5) daltons (1275 nucleotides), with an average polyadenylate segment length of 26 nucleotides. Neither of these values changed significantly during germination. The earliest detectable (first 30 min of germination) de novo synthesized mRNA's were rapidly incorporated into polyribosomes. This newly synthesized, presumably functional, mRNA was composed of both poly A(+) RNA and polyadenylate-lacking RNA. The average sizes of the two polyribosomal mRNA subpopulations and the total poly A(+) RNA population were identical.", "PMID": 455153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11523", "title": "In vitro attachment of Treponema hyodysenteriae to mammalian epithelial cells.", "content": "The interaction between Treponema hyodysenteriae and isolated swine intestinal epithelial cells or mouse adrenal cells in culture was examined. Studies were performed in which treponemes were incubated with each type of anomal cell in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. Coincubation was terminated at various time intervals, and the percentage of treponemal attachment evaluated by light microscopy. The extent of attachment was dependent on both incubation time and temperature. The mechanism of attachment to the animal cell surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Interaction of the parasite with the host cell did not appear to alter cellular morphology or result in changes of the cell surface at the site of attachment. Preference for a cellular site of attachment was not found.", "contents": "In vitro attachment of Treponema hyodysenteriae to mammalian epithelial cells. The interaction between Treponema hyodysenteriae and isolated swine intestinal epithelial cells or mouse adrenal cells in culture was examined. Studies were performed in which treponemes were incubated with each type of anomal cell in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. Coincubation was terminated at various time intervals, and the percentage of treponemal attachment evaluated by light microscopy. The extent of attachment was dependent on both incubation time and temperature. The mechanism of attachment to the animal cell surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Interaction of the parasite with the host cell did not appear to alter cellular morphology or result in changes of the cell surface at the site of attachment. Preference for a cellular site of attachment was not found.", "PMID": 455154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11524", "title": "[Antibacterial activity of zearalenone].", "content": "Zearalenone, a mycotoxin secreted by Fusarium sp. and Gibberella zeae, shows a narrow range of antibacterial activity limited to some Gram-positive aerobic spore-forming bacteria. In Bacillus thuringiensis (Berliner), a highly sensitive species, this activity is characterized by a decrease of cellular division and induction of atypical cells. These effects resemble those obtained with two other mycotoxins which possess a lactone structure: aflatoxin B1 and patulin.", "contents": "[Antibacterial activity of zearalenone]. Zearalenone, a mycotoxin secreted by Fusarium sp. and Gibberella zeae, shows a narrow range of antibacterial activity limited to some Gram-positive aerobic spore-forming bacteria. In Bacillus thuringiensis (Berliner), a highly sensitive species, this activity is characterized by a decrease of cellular division and induction of atypical cells. These effects resemble those obtained with two other mycotoxins which possess a lactone structure: aflatoxin B1 and patulin.", "PMID": 455155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11525", "title": "Heparin via the lung.", "content": "Only recently has it been realized that heparin is absorbed when administered into the lung. Im mice, rats, dogs and humans a large dose of intrapulmonary heparin has been shown to cause a moderate degree of hypocoagulability lasting from 48 hours to 14 days depending on the species. This study is part of an ongoing program investigating the effects of the intrapulmonary administration of heparin. Heparin, 1500 units/kg body weight was instilled into the lung in a group of 12 dogs and an equal volume of saline was given in a control group of 10 dogs. Various hemodynamic and metabolic measurements were made at intervals. As expected there was a prolonged moderate increase in clotting time, but no significant effects from intrapulmonary administration of heparin were demonstrated by any of the other measurements. Much work has yet to be done before intrapulmonary heparin can be used clinically but it has potential importance in the management of thromboembolic disease.", "contents": "Heparin via the lung. Only recently has it been realized that heparin is absorbed when administered into the lung. Im mice, rats, dogs and humans a large dose of intrapulmonary heparin has been shown to cause a moderate degree of hypocoagulability lasting from 48 hours to 14 days depending on the species. This study is part of an ongoing program investigating the effects of the intrapulmonary administration of heparin. Heparin, 1500 units/kg body weight was instilled into the lung in a group of 12 dogs and an equal volume of saline was given in a control group of 10 dogs. Various hemodynamic and metabolic measurements were made at intervals. As expected there was a prolonged moderate increase in clotting time, but no significant effects from intrapulmonary administration of heparin were demonstrated by any of the other measurements. Much work has yet to be done before intrapulmonary heparin can be used clinically but it has potential importance in the management of thromboembolic disease.", "PMID": 455159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11526", "title": "Cerebral surveillance during cardiac surgery.", "content": "There is at present no ideal method for determining the adequacy of cerebral blood flow during nonpulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. Clinical evaluation of cerebral function while the patient is under general anesthesia may be misleading and unsuspected cerebral damage could result if perfusion of the cerebrovascular bed is inadequate. Electroencephalography appears to be the only reliable noninvasive means of cerebral surveillance during the critical periods of nonpulsatile perfusion.", "contents": "Cerebral surveillance during cardiac surgery. There is at present no ideal method for determining the adequacy of cerebral blood flow during nonpulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. Clinical evaluation of cerebral function while the patient is under general anesthesia may be misleading and unsuspected cerebral damage could result if perfusion of the cerebrovascular bed is inadequate. Electroencephalography appears to be the only reliable noninvasive means of cerebral surveillance during the critical periods of nonpulsatile perfusion.", "PMID": 455161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11527", "title": "Exercise electrocardiography and myocardial perfusion imaging in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease: preliminary report.", "content": "Exercise electrocardiography and rest/exercise myocardial perfusion imaging with thallium-201 were performed in 43 patients with typical angina or atypical chest pain; the results were correlated with those of coronary arteriography. Exercise electrocardiography sensitivity was 65%, specificity was 78%, predictive value for a positive result was 73% and for a negative result was 93%. The low sensitivity of the exercise electrocardiogram was mainly due to the number (13 of 43, 30%) of inconclusive results (no ST-segment change on the electrocardiogram, but failure to attain the target rate), most of which were in the group with typical angina. The predictive value of exercise electrocardiography for both a positive and negative result was excellent in typical angina. In patients with atypical chest pain, the negative predictive value was high (90%) but the positive predictive value was very low (50%). The sensitivity of myocardial perfusion imaging was 71%, specificity was 59%, positive predictive value was 52% and negative predictive value 89%. The low specificity of this test is related to the number of false-positive results obtained, most of which occurred in the group with atypical pain. When the results of exercise electrocardiography and myocardial perfusion imaging are combined, the sensitivity is increased but specificity is unacceptably low. However, myocardial perfusion imaging in patients with an inconclusive result from exercise electrocardiography (most of them in the group with typical angina) showed a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 88%, positive predictive value of 80% and negative predictive value of 100%.", "contents": "Exercise electrocardiography and myocardial perfusion imaging in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease: preliminary report. Exercise electrocardiography and rest/exercise myocardial perfusion imaging with thallium-201 were performed in 43 patients with typical angina or atypical chest pain; the results were correlated with those of coronary arteriography. Exercise electrocardiography sensitivity was 65%, specificity was 78%, predictive value for a positive result was 73% and for a negative result was 93%. The low sensitivity of the exercise electrocardiogram was mainly due to the number (13 of 43, 30%) of inconclusive results (no ST-segment change on the electrocardiogram, but failure to attain the target rate), most of which were in the group with typical angina. The predictive value of exercise electrocardiography for both a positive and negative result was excellent in typical angina. In patients with atypical chest pain, the negative predictive value was high (90%) but the positive predictive value was very low (50%). The sensitivity of myocardial perfusion imaging was 71%, specificity was 59%, positive predictive value was 52% and negative predictive value 89%. The low specificity of this test is related to the number of false-positive results obtained, most of which occurred in the group with atypical pain. When the results of exercise electrocardiography and myocardial perfusion imaging are combined, the sensitivity is increased but specificity is unacceptably low. However, myocardial perfusion imaging in patients with an inconclusive result from exercise electrocardiography (most of them in the group with typical angina) showed a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 88%, positive predictive value of 80% and negative predictive value of 100%.", "PMID": 455162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11528", "title": "CAGS lecture. Scientific salients in surgery.", "content": "Surgery, as a field of clinical skill and scientific knowledge, advances by Discovery, Development and Delivery. While the basic biosciences have been more productive in Discovery than have the clinical fields, surgery has participated in several important areas of Discovery. Developmental science is often called biomedical engineering. In this activity, surgery has been pre-eminent, while it is the study and perfection of Delivery that holds such promise for the future of surgery. Distribution and regionalization of operations, bidirectional referral flow, manpower norms and analysis of adverse outcomes are important horizons for study in surgical care delivery.", "contents": "CAGS lecture. Scientific salients in surgery. Surgery, as a field of clinical skill and scientific knowledge, advances by Discovery, Development and Delivery. While the basic biosciences have been more productive in Discovery than have the clinical fields, surgery has participated in several important areas of Discovery. Developmental science is often called biomedical engineering. In this activity, surgery has been pre-eminent, while it is the study and perfection of Delivery that holds such promise for the future of surgery. Distribution and regionalization of operations, bidirectional referral flow, manpower norms and analysis of adverse outcomes are important horizons for study in surgical care delivery.", "PMID": 455163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11529", "title": "Ski fractures above or below the boot top.", "content": "In a group of 643 skiers with fractures of the tibial shaft there were 161 ski boot fractures. The authors identified and classified these fractures according to the amount of instability, comminution, angulation, displacement, rotational deformity and ankle joint involvement. The majority of less severe fractures occurred in children and adolescents while the number of more severe fractures increased in proportion to the skier's age. Seventy-two skiers were included in the follow-up examination. Closed management of ski boot fractures offered satisfactory results. Type 3 and 4 fractures (unstable, comminuted, with angulation greater than 15 degrees, displacement and rotational deformity) sometimes resulted in osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. The authors present a biomechanical explanation of deformity through a quasistatic force analysis of the observed fracture level.", "contents": "Ski fractures above or below the boot top. In a group of 643 skiers with fractures of the tibial shaft there were 161 ski boot fractures. The authors identified and classified these fractures according to the amount of instability, comminution, angulation, displacement, rotational deformity and ankle joint involvement. The majority of less severe fractures occurred in children and adolescents while the number of more severe fractures increased in proportion to the skier's age. Seventy-two skiers were included in the follow-up examination. Closed management of ski boot fractures offered satisfactory results. Type 3 and 4 fractures (unstable, comminuted, with angulation greater than 15 degrees, displacement and rotational deformity) sometimes resulted in osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. The authors present a biomechanical explanation of deformity through a quasistatic force analysis of the observed fracture level.", "PMID": 455164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11530", "title": "Cholecystectomy with and without drainage.", "content": "The authors studied the effect of intraoperative drainage, presence of postoperative pyrexia, influence of appendectomy, chest complications and wound infection in 200 patients who had undergone routine uncomplicated cholecystectomy. One hundred patients in whom no drain was inserted were matched with 100 patients whose cholecystectomies, performed during the same period, included placement of a drain. There were 10 males and 90 females in each group; the mean age was 40.5 years in the undrained group and 40.4 years in the drained group. There was a significantly (P less than 0.05) higher frequency of chest complications, longer hospital stay and pronounced postoperative pyrexia (P less than 0.003) in the group with drainage. The rate of wound infection was substantially increased in both groups by adding appendectomy to the procedure, particularly if drains were not used. It is evident that the routine placement of a drain in an uncomplicated cholecystectomy is unnecessary and may even be harmful.", "contents": "Cholecystectomy with and without drainage. The authors studied the effect of intraoperative drainage, presence of postoperative pyrexia, influence of appendectomy, chest complications and wound infection in 200 patients who had undergone routine uncomplicated cholecystectomy. One hundred patients in whom no drain was inserted were matched with 100 patients whose cholecystectomies, performed during the same period, included placement of a drain. There were 10 males and 90 females in each group; the mean age was 40.5 years in the undrained group and 40.4 years in the drained group. There was a significantly (P less than 0.05) higher frequency of chest complications, longer hospital stay and pronounced postoperative pyrexia (P less than 0.003) in the group with drainage. The rate of wound infection was substantially increased in both groups by adding appendectomy to the procedure, particularly if drains were not used. It is evident that the routine placement of a drain in an uncomplicated cholecystectomy is unnecessary and may even be harmful.", "PMID": 455165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11531", "title": "Severe coagulopathy following insertion of the LeVeen shunt: a potentially fatal complication.", "content": "Four patients who underwent insertion of the LeVeen shunt for treatment of medically intractable hepatic ascites had coagulation changes. Peritoneo-venous shunting was associated with a mild coagulopathy in two patients, simulating disseminated intravascular coagulation or primary fibrinolysis. The coagulopathy was severe in two patients and life-threatening in one of these. Postoperative coagulopathy may be detected by careful monitoring of coagulation indices and the risk of its development parallels the severity of liver disease.", "contents": "Severe coagulopathy following insertion of the LeVeen shunt: a potentially fatal complication. Four patients who underwent insertion of the LeVeen shunt for treatment of medically intractable hepatic ascites had coagulation changes. Peritoneo-venous shunting was associated with a mild coagulopathy in two patients, simulating disseminated intravascular coagulation or primary fibrinolysis. The coagulopathy was severe in two patients and life-threatening in one of these. Postoperative coagulopathy may be detected by careful monitoring of coagulation indices and the risk of its development parallels the severity of liver disease.", "PMID": 455166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11532", "title": "Thrombosis and free fatty acids in patients subjected to total hip arthroplasty.", "content": "The plasma concentrations of free fatty acids were estimated at intervals before, during and after total hip arthroplasty in seven patients. Each patient underwent examination for deep vein thrombosis with iodine-125 leg scanning, impedance plethysmography and contrast venography. Substantially higher concentrations of free fatty acids were found in the plasma of patients shown to have thrombosis than in those without thrombosis.", "contents": "Thrombosis and free fatty acids in patients subjected to total hip arthroplasty. The plasma concentrations of free fatty acids were estimated at intervals before, during and after total hip arthroplasty in seven patients. Each patient underwent examination for deep vein thrombosis with iodine-125 leg scanning, impedance plethysmography and contrast venography. Substantially higher concentrations of free fatty acids were found in the plasma of patients shown to have thrombosis than in those without thrombosis.", "PMID": 455167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11533", "title": "Bacteriologic monitoring in abdominal aortic surgery.", "content": "In patients who undergo abdominal aortic operations, cultures have been recommended perioperatively to identify potential sources of graft infection. Bacteriologic monitoring was done in a group of patients receiving antibiotics prophylactically. Of 197 bowel bag cultures, 28 (14.2%) demonsrated small numbers of bacteria, usually Staphylococcus epidermidis, while of 31 aneurysm wall cultures, 7 (22.6%) grew bacteria. Four (6.6%) of 60 urine cultures done preoperatively indicated a significant bacteriuria, necessitating postponement of elective operations. Twenty-eight (46%) of 61 wounds revealed organisms of low pathogenicity, none of which caused overt infection. While the majority of 63 nasal cultures grew bacteria, this result did not influence the management of any patient. Eleven graft infections occurred in 517 abdominal aortic grafts inserted between 1967 and 1977. In three patients, infection was already present at the time of emergency operation while in another three, infections occurred subsequently, due to paraprosthetic-enteric fistulas in two and septicemia secondary to an operation on the genitourinary tract in the third. In the remaining five patients, no cause for infection was identified. Thus, no bowel bag culture and only one aneurysm wall culture was useful. This study has failed to demonstrate the value of routine cultures perioperatively in patients who undergo abdominal aortic operations.", "contents": "Bacteriologic monitoring in abdominal aortic surgery. In patients who undergo abdominal aortic operations, cultures have been recommended perioperatively to identify potential sources of graft infection. Bacteriologic monitoring was done in a group of patients receiving antibiotics prophylactically. Of 197 bowel bag cultures, 28 (14.2%) demonsrated small numbers of bacteria, usually Staphylococcus epidermidis, while of 31 aneurysm wall cultures, 7 (22.6%) grew bacteria. Four (6.6%) of 60 urine cultures done preoperatively indicated a significant bacteriuria, necessitating postponement of elective operations. Twenty-eight (46%) of 61 wounds revealed organisms of low pathogenicity, none of which caused overt infection. While the majority of 63 nasal cultures grew bacteria, this result did not influence the management of any patient. Eleven graft infections occurred in 517 abdominal aortic grafts inserted between 1967 and 1977. In three patients, infection was already present at the time of emergency operation while in another three, infections occurred subsequently, due to paraprosthetic-enteric fistulas in two and septicemia secondary to an operation on the genitourinary tract in the third. In the remaining five patients, no cause for infection was identified. Thus, no bowel bag culture and only one aneurysm wall culture was useful. This study has failed to demonstrate the value of routine cultures perioperatively in patients who undergo abdominal aortic operations.", "PMID": 455168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11534", "title": "Diagnostic ultrasonography in acute cholecystitis.", "content": "In a 12-month period 100 patients with clinical evidence of acute disease of the gallbladder were studied in hospital by grey-scale ultrasonography. During the same hospital admission it was possible to correlate results of ultrasonography with operative findings in 66 patients. In 52 patients the ultrasonographic diagnosis of gallstones was proved to be correct. There were no false-positive results. In seven patients the ultrasonographic report of a normal gallbladder without stones was also confirmed. In two patients, the report of a normal gallbladder without stones was erroneous. In two more patients the scan was indeterminate and stones were found at operation. In the remaining three patients echogenic material was reported and at operation minute stones and \"sludge\" were found. No complications resulted from the ultrasonography. The study showed that grey-scale ultrasonography is a reliable, rapid and safe technique for detecting gallstones in patients with a clinical diagnosis of acute cholecystitis.", "contents": "Diagnostic ultrasonography in acute cholecystitis. In a 12-month period 100 patients with clinical evidence of acute disease of the gallbladder were studied in hospital by grey-scale ultrasonography. During the same hospital admission it was possible to correlate results of ultrasonography with operative findings in 66 patients. In 52 patients the ultrasonographic diagnosis of gallstones was proved to be correct. There were no false-positive results. In seven patients the ultrasonographic report of a normal gallbladder without stones was also confirmed. In two patients, the report of a normal gallbladder without stones was erroneous. In two more patients the scan was indeterminate and stones were found at operation. In the remaining three patients echogenic material was reported and at operation minute stones and \"sludge\" were found. No complications resulted from the ultrasonography. The study showed that grey-scale ultrasonography is a reliable, rapid and safe technique for detecting gallstones in patients with a clinical diagnosis of acute cholecystitis.", "PMID": 455169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11535", "title": "Re-evaluation of thrombectomy in the management of iliofemoral venous thrombosis.", "content": "The authors studied 15 patients with iliofemoral venous thrombosis up to 8 years after the diagnosis was made, to determine whether there was late deterioration in venous function following thrombectomy. Twelve patients were treated by venous thrombectomy and anticoagulants and 3 by anticoagulants alone. Eight of the 12 patients subjected to thrombectomy had an excellent result with limbs that were considered normal. This did not confirm earlier reports which indicated that good early results were not maintained. In 4 of the 12 surgically treated patients minor symptoms of leg pain and swelling were present which also did not progress with time. In all patients treated by anticoagulants alone major symptoms of leg pain and severe swelling persisted. Three of the four patients with persistent minor symptoms after venous thrombectomy were found at operation to have left iliac vein compression syndrome. Only one of eight patients having an excellent clinical result had this syndrome.", "contents": "Re-evaluation of thrombectomy in the management of iliofemoral venous thrombosis. The authors studied 15 patients with iliofemoral venous thrombosis up to 8 years after the diagnosis was made, to determine whether there was late deterioration in venous function following thrombectomy. Twelve patients were treated by venous thrombectomy and anticoagulants and 3 by anticoagulants alone. Eight of the 12 patients subjected to thrombectomy had an excellent result with limbs that were considered normal. This did not confirm earlier reports which indicated that good early results were not maintained. In 4 of the 12 surgically treated patients minor symptoms of leg pain and swelling were present which also did not progress with time. In all patients treated by anticoagulants alone major symptoms of leg pain and severe swelling persisted. Three of the four patients with persistent minor symptoms after venous thrombectomy were found at operation to have left iliac vein compression syndrome. Only one of eight patients having an excellent clinical result had this syndrome.", "PMID": 455170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11536", "title": "Effect of cimetidine on chronic gastric ulcers produced experimentally in rats.", "content": "The authors have studied the effects of cimetidine on the healing of chronic gastric ulcers induced in rats. Gastric ulcers were produced by topical application of 60% acetic acid to the serosal surface of the lesser curvature of the stomach. Oral administration of cimetidine, 150 mg/kg daily, in two divided doses for a maximum of 14 days failed to produce any significant acceleration of healing.", "contents": "Effect of cimetidine on chronic gastric ulcers produced experimentally in rats. The authors have studied the effects of cimetidine on the healing of chronic gastric ulcers induced in rats. Gastric ulcers were produced by topical application of 60% acetic acid to the serosal surface of the lesser curvature of the stomach. Oral administration of cimetidine, 150 mg/kg daily, in two divided doses for a maximum of 14 days failed to produce any significant acceleration of healing.", "PMID": 455171} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11537", "title": "Diarrhea and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid.", "content": "The authors present the case of a 34-year-old woman with disseminated medullary carcinoma of the thyroid to emphasize the value of calcitonin assay in the diagnosis of this condition despite the absence of a thyroid mass and negative scans. An increased concentration of serum carcino-embryonic antigen was confirmed. The diarrhea associated with the disease did not respond to indomethacin in this patient suggesting that in some cases of medullary carcinoma diarrhea is not due to excessive production of prostaglandins.", "contents": "Diarrhea and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid. The authors present the case of a 34-year-old woman with disseminated medullary carcinoma of the thyroid to emphasize the value of calcitonin assay in the diagnosis of this condition despite the absence of a thyroid mass and negative scans. An increased concentration of serum carcino-embryonic antigen was confirmed. The diarrhea associated with the disease did not respond to indomethacin in this patient suggesting that in some cases of medullary carcinoma diarrhea is not due to excessive production of prostaglandins.", "PMID": 455172} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11538", "title": "Antidepressants in the general hospital.", "content": "An approach to the use of antidepressant medication in the general hospital is presented. The type of depression most likely to respond to chemotherapy is described, categories of available antidepressant agents are discussed, and relevant pharmacologic aspects are outlined. This paper suggests clinical guidelines for the use of these drugs, particularly in medical and surgical patients.", "contents": "Antidepressants in the general hospital. An approach to the use of antidepressant medication in the general hospital is presented. The type of depression most likely to respond to chemotherapy is described, categories of available antidepressant agents are discussed, and relevant pharmacologic aspects are outlined. This paper suggests clinical guidelines for the use of these drugs, particularly in medical and surgical patients.", "PMID": 455184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11539", "title": "Management of colonic and rectal injuries.", "content": "In managing a colonic or rectal injury the surgeon must decide whether it is acceptable to have feces passing over a suture line or anastomosis. If it is, resection and anastomosis or simple oversewing of the bowel can be done. If it is not, there are four choices: (a) closure of the wound, drainage and proximal diversion; (b) primary closure or resection and anastomosis of the wound with exteriorization; (c) formation of a double-barrelled colostomy; and (d) resection of the injured colon with formation of an end-colostomy and a mucosal fistula or a Hartmann procedure. The surgeon's choice should be dictated by the severity of the injury, the degree of fecal contamination and the general condition of the patient.", "contents": "Management of colonic and rectal injuries. In managing a colonic or rectal injury the surgeon must decide whether it is acceptable to have feces passing over a suture line or anastomosis. If it is, resection and anastomosis or simple oversewing of the bowel can be done. If it is not, there are four choices: (a) closure of the wound, drainage and proximal diversion; (b) primary closure or resection and anastomosis of the wound with exteriorization; (c) formation of a double-barrelled colostomy; and (d) resection of the injured colon with formation of an end-colostomy and a mucosal fistula or a Hartmann procedure. The surgeon's choice should be dictated by the severity of the injury, the degree of fecal contamination and the general condition of the patient.", "PMID": 455185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11540", "title": "Adult-onset Still's disease.", "content": "Four adults with an illness similar to the systemic variant of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis seen in children (Still's disease) are described. All four had fever, an erythematous maculopapular rash, splenomegaly and arthritis. The arthritis was asymmetric and involved only a few joints simultaneously. Erosive arthritis developed in one patient. Three patients had a sore throat, two had pleurisy and pericarditis, and one had transient abnormalities of liver function. The laboratory features included anemia, leukocytosis and high leukocyte counts in the synovial fluid. High titres of rubella hemagglutination-inhibiting antibody were detected in two patients, one of whom was found to have rubella virus in the urine. Only one patient responded well to therapy with acetylsalicylic acid; the other three were given prednisone therapy, and two continue to require it.", "contents": "Adult-onset Still's disease. Four adults with an illness similar to the systemic variant of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis seen in children (Still's disease) are described. All four had fever, an erythematous maculopapular rash, splenomegaly and arthritis. The arthritis was asymmetric and involved only a few joints simultaneously. Erosive arthritis developed in one patient. Three patients had a sore throat, two had pleurisy and pericarditis, and one had transient abnormalities of liver function. The laboratory features included anemia, leukocytosis and high leukocyte counts in the synovial fluid. High titres of rubella hemagglutination-inhibiting antibody were detected in two patients, one of whom was found to have rubella virus in the urine. Only one patient responded well to therapy with acetylsalicylic acid; the other three were given prednisone therapy, and two continue to require it.", "PMID": 455206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11541", "title": "Cancer of the bladder in Alberta: a urologic audit review.", "content": "A review was conducted of 660 cases of cancer of the bladder diagnosed in two periods, 1960--62 and 1968--70. A significant increase in the incidence of bladder cancer in both sexes, paralleling the trends in other parts of North America, was found. During the second period the disease was diagnosed earlier and, once diagnosed, was apparently treated more successfully. Overall 5-year survival rates increased from 57% to 70% for patients with stage O or A disease, but were relatively constant, at about 36%, for patients with stage B1 or B2 disease. The survival rate for patients with stage O or A disease appeared to improve without clearly defined changes in treatment. Prospective randomized treatment trials are needed to properly assess the value of definitive and adjunctive methods of treatment.", "contents": "Cancer of the bladder in Alberta: a urologic audit review. A review was conducted of 660 cases of cancer of the bladder diagnosed in two periods, 1960--62 and 1968--70. A significant increase in the incidence of bladder cancer in both sexes, paralleling the trends in other parts of North America, was found. During the second period the disease was diagnosed earlier and, once diagnosed, was apparently treated more successfully. Overall 5-year survival rates increased from 57% to 70% for patients with stage O or A disease, but were relatively constant, at about 36%, for patients with stage B1 or B2 disease. The survival rate for patients with stage O or A disease appeared to improve without clearly defined changes in treatment. Prospective randomized treatment trials are needed to properly assess the value of definitive and adjunctive methods of treatment.", "PMID": 455207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11542", "title": "Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease: antemortem diagnosis from roentgenographic and hemodynamic findings.", "content": "A 17-year-old boy with pulmonary veno-occlusive disease underwent Swan--Ganz catheterization. A normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was recorded in the presence of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension and roentgenographic evidence of pulmonary venous congestion. This triad of findings permitted an unequivocal diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, which was later confirmed at autopsy. The hemodynamics of this condition and of others included in the differential diagnosis are presented schematically.", "contents": "Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease: antemortem diagnosis from roentgenographic and hemodynamic findings. A 17-year-old boy with pulmonary veno-occlusive disease underwent Swan--Ganz catheterization. A normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was recorded in the presence of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension and roentgenographic evidence of pulmonary venous congestion. This triad of findings permitted an unequivocal diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, which was later confirmed at autopsy. The hemodynamics of this condition and of others included in the differential diagnosis are presented schematically.", "PMID": 455208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11543", "title": "Campylobacter enteritis.", "content": "Campylobacter jejuni/coli has recently become recognized as a common bacterial cause of diarrhea. Infection can occur at any age. The usual incubation period of campylobacter enteritis is 2 to 5 days. Fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common clinical features. The stools frequently contain mucus and, a few days after the onset of symptoms, frank blood. Significant vomiting and dehydration are uncommon. A rapid presumptive laboratory diagnosis may be made during the acute phase of the illness by direct phase-contrast microscopy of stools. Isolation of the organism from stools requires culture in a selective medium containing antibiotics and incubation under reduced oxygen tension at 42 degrees C. The organism persists in the stools of untreated patients for up to 7 weeks following the onset of symptoms. Erythromycin may produce a rapid clinical and bacteriologic cure, and should be used to treat moderately to severely ill patients as well as patients with compromised host defences. The emergence of erythromycin-resistant strains requires close monitoring. The epidemiologic aspects of campylobacter enteritis will be fully understood only when methods become available for differentiating strains of C. jejuni/coli. The historical background and current knowledge of campylobacter enteritis are reviewed in this paper.", "contents": "Campylobacter enteritis. Campylobacter jejuni/coli has recently become recognized as a common bacterial cause of diarrhea. Infection can occur at any age. The usual incubation period of campylobacter enteritis is 2 to 5 days. Fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common clinical features. The stools frequently contain mucus and, a few days after the onset of symptoms, frank blood. Significant vomiting and dehydration are uncommon. A rapid presumptive laboratory diagnosis may be made during the acute phase of the illness by direct phase-contrast microscopy of stools. Isolation of the organism from stools requires culture in a selective medium containing antibiotics and incubation under reduced oxygen tension at 42 degrees C. The organism persists in the stools of untreated patients for up to 7 weeks following the onset of symptoms. Erythromycin may produce a rapid clinical and bacteriologic cure, and should be used to treat moderately to severely ill patients as well as patients with compromised host defences. The emergence of erythromycin-resistant strains requires close monitoring. The epidemiologic aspects of campylobacter enteritis will be fully understood only when methods become available for differentiating strains of C. jejuni/coli. The historical background and current knowledge of campylobacter enteritis are reviewed in this paper.", "PMID": 455209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11544", "title": "Continuous intravenous arabinosyl cytosine infusions delivered by a new portable infusion system.", "content": "Eighty-six patients with acute leukemia were given 116 continuous intravenous arabinosyl cytosine (Ara-C) infusions (for 24 to 432 hours) with a new portable infusion device. The infusor is powered by interchangeable elastomeric 25 ml balloon reservoirs loaded from standard syringes. The reservoir contents are discharged at nearly constant pressure through an adjustable resistance element, thereby providing flow rates from 0.4 to 2.0 ml/hour. Serum levels of labeled Ara-C delivered by the infusor were found to achieve steady-state therapeutic levels within 24 hours. The average-flow-rate-to-indicator-setting ratio determined for each infusion via scalp vein needles was 0.9 +/- 0.2. Delivery through catheters was more reliable and an average-flow-rate-to-indicator-setting ratio of 0.1 +/- 0.1 was observed. The therapeutic effectiveness of Ara-C in combination with other agents was not compromised by this delivery system. Eleven of 14 patients who received all their induction Ara-C through the infusor achieved complete remission.", "contents": "Continuous intravenous arabinosyl cytosine infusions delivered by a new portable infusion system. Eighty-six patients with acute leukemia were given 116 continuous intravenous arabinosyl cytosine (Ara-C) infusions (for 24 to 432 hours) with a new portable infusion device. The infusor is powered by interchangeable elastomeric 25 ml balloon reservoirs loaded from standard syringes. The reservoir contents are discharged at nearly constant pressure through an adjustable resistance element, thereby providing flow rates from 0.4 to 2.0 ml/hour. Serum levels of labeled Ara-C delivered by the infusor were found to achieve steady-state therapeutic levels within 24 hours. The average-flow-rate-to-indicator-setting ratio determined for each infusion via scalp vein needles was 0.9 +/- 0.2. Delivery through catheters was more reliable and an average-flow-rate-to-indicator-setting ratio of 0.1 +/- 0.1 was observed. The therapeutic effectiveness of Ara-C in combination with other agents was not compromised by this delivery system. Eleven of 14 patients who received all their induction Ara-C through the infusor achieved complete remission.", "PMID": 455216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11545", "title": "Factors that affect response to chemotherapy and survival of patients with advanced head and neck cancer.", "content": "A review of 164 patients with far advanced head and neck cancer, treated by a cytotoxic chemotherapy over a ten year period, at WAyne State University, Detroit, Michigan, was done in an attempt to determine factors that may influence the response to chemotherapy and subsequent survival. Response rate to methotrexate was 28%, 5-FU 31%, and porfiromycin 13%. Improved responses were noted with combination chemotherapy. Patients who failed to first line therapy rarely responded to other single agent or combination chemotherapy. Those who did not have prior surgery and/or radiotherapy had better results from drug therapy. Patients with good performance status at the time of initial chemotherapy, had better response to treatment (32% vs. 13% PR & CR) and longer survival (28 weeks vs. 9 weeks, p = 0.01) when compared to those with poor status. Patients who responded to chemotherapy have better survival compared to nonresponders (29 weeks vs. 16 weeks, p = 0.002). This information may prove helpful in future planning of multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of patients with head and neck cancer.", "contents": "Factors that affect response to chemotherapy and survival of patients with advanced head and neck cancer. A review of 164 patients with far advanced head and neck cancer, treated by a cytotoxic chemotherapy over a ten year period, at WAyne State University, Detroit, Michigan, was done in an attempt to determine factors that may influence the response to chemotherapy and subsequent survival. Response rate to methotrexate was 28%, 5-FU 31%, and porfiromycin 13%. Improved responses were noted with combination chemotherapy. Patients who failed to first line therapy rarely responded to other single agent or combination chemotherapy. Those who did not have prior surgery and/or radiotherapy had better results from drug therapy. Patients with good performance status at the time of initial chemotherapy, had better response to treatment (32% vs. 13% PR & CR) and longer survival (28 weeks vs. 9 weeks, p = 0.01) when compared to those with poor status. Patients who responded to chemotherapy have better survival compared to nonresponders (29 weeks vs. 16 weeks, p = 0.002). This information may prove helpful in future planning of multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of patients with head and neck cancer.", "PMID": 455217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11546", "title": "Thyroid neoplasia following irradiation for medulloblastoma: report of two cases.", "content": "Thyroid neoplasms occurred in two patients 14 and 18 years after treatment with radiation for medulloblastoma. One patient has a papillary cancer and the other patient had multiple adenomas and a Hurthle cell adenoma. In addition, the latter case had foci of hyperplasia plus a microfollicular transformation, which has not been described in association with prior thyroid irradiation. The radiation doses delivered to the thyroid through posterior cervical spinal ports (2000--3000 roentgens) fall within the upper range of radiation dosage associated with induction of neoplastic changes within the thyroid.", "contents": "Thyroid neoplasia following irradiation for medulloblastoma: report of two cases. Thyroid neoplasms occurred in two patients 14 and 18 years after treatment with radiation for medulloblastoma. One patient has a papillary cancer and the other patient had multiple adenomas and a Hurthle cell adenoma. In addition, the latter case had foci of hyperplasia plus a microfollicular transformation, which has not been described in association with prior thyroid irradiation. The radiation doses delivered to the thyroid through posterior cervical spinal ports (2000--3000 roentgens) fall within the upper range of radiation dosage associated with induction of neoplastic changes within the thyroid.", "PMID": 455218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11547", "title": "Central nervous system changes complicating the use of radiotherapy for the treatment of a nasopharyngeal neoplasm in a diabetic patient.", "content": "A case is reported of a diabetic patient with a nasopharyngeal neoplasm who developed radiation induced brainstem damage even though irradiated at a conventional time-dose-volume relationship. The clinical course was correlated with autopsy findings which revealed radiation changes in the brainstem consisting primarily of vascular hyalinization with foci of infarction, edema, and demyelination. Atherosclerotic changes were conspicuously absent and therefore not the case of the alterations. The changes occurred three months after completion of therapy, which was more rapid than expected for radiation injury. It is hypothesized that diabetes may have predisposed the patient to this severe complication of standard therapy. More needs to be learned concerning the relationship between diabetes mellitus and radiation complications. Perhaps a modified time-dose relationship should be considered.", "contents": "Central nervous system changes complicating the use of radiotherapy for the treatment of a nasopharyngeal neoplasm in a diabetic patient. A case is reported of a diabetic patient with a nasopharyngeal neoplasm who developed radiation induced brainstem damage even though irradiated at a conventional time-dose-volume relationship. The clinical course was correlated with autopsy findings which revealed radiation changes in the brainstem consisting primarily of vascular hyalinization with foci of infarction, edema, and demyelination. Atherosclerotic changes were conspicuously absent and therefore not the case of the alterations. The changes occurred three months after completion of therapy, which was more rapid than expected for radiation injury. It is hypothesized that diabetes may have predisposed the patient to this severe complication of standard therapy. More needs to be learned concerning the relationship between diabetes mellitus and radiation complications. Perhaps a modified time-dose relationship should be considered.", "PMID": 455219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11548", "title": "Opium: a potential urinary bladder carcinogen in man.", "content": "Evidence is presented that opium addition is a risk factor for cancer of the bladder. A case-control study of 99 bladder cancer patients admitted to Nemazee Hospital in Shiraz, Iran was evaluated. Cancer patients and controls, matched by age and sex, were analyzed as to their opium and/or cigarette smoking habits. A high correlation between opium addiction and bladder cancer has been observed. This evidence significantly exceeded the one observed in relation to cigarette smoking only. The sex ratio for this cancer site, from hospitalized cases in Southern Iran, is estimated to be about nine male cases per one female case. This high male to female ratio was attributed to the greater addiction of males to opium. It was concluded that opium and, more likely, its pyrolysis derived fractions may represent potential bladder carcinogens in man.", "contents": "Opium: a potential urinary bladder carcinogen in man. Evidence is presented that opium addition is a risk factor for cancer of the bladder. A case-control study of 99 bladder cancer patients admitted to Nemazee Hospital in Shiraz, Iran was evaluated. Cancer patients and controls, matched by age and sex, were analyzed as to their opium and/or cigarette smoking habits. A high correlation between opium addiction and bladder cancer has been observed. This evidence significantly exceeded the one observed in relation to cigarette smoking only. The sex ratio for this cancer site, from hospitalized cases in Southern Iran, is estimated to be about nine male cases per one female case. This high male to female ratio was attributed to the greater addiction of males to opium. It was concluded that opium and, more likely, its pyrolysis derived fractions may represent potential bladder carcinogens in man.", "PMID": 455221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11549", "title": "Cellular angiomas of infancy: an ultrastructural study of two cases.", "content": "Vascular tumors in infants may be clinically disfiguring, requiring surgical intervention. Some of these lesions are histopathologically worrisome, due to increased cellularity and mitotic activity. The interpretation of these lesions is hampered by a surfeit of terminology, although, regardless of the diagnostic name, they are clinically benign. Two such cellular angiomas are reported, one typical and one unusual case. Electron microscopy of both cases demonstrated a heterogeneous cellular composition, primarily endothelial cells and pericytes. In those light microscopic areas of diffuse growth, primitive vascular structures were resolved. Electron microscopy may be diagnostically useful in supporting the light microscopic impression of a vascular tumor.", "contents": "Cellular angiomas of infancy: an ultrastructural study of two cases. Vascular tumors in infants may be clinically disfiguring, requiring surgical intervention. Some of these lesions are histopathologically worrisome, due to increased cellularity and mitotic activity. The interpretation of these lesions is hampered by a surfeit of terminology, although, regardless of the diagnostic name, they are clinically benign. Two such cellular angiomas are reported, one typical and one unusual case. Electron microscopy of both cases demonstrated a heterogeneous cellular composition, primarily endothelial cells and pericytes. In those light microscopic areas of diffuse growth, primitive vascular structures were resolved. Electron microscopy may be diagnostically useful in supporting the light microscopic impression of a vascular tumor.", "PMID": 455222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11550", "title": "Undifferentiated intratubular germ cell tumor of the testis: light and electron microscopic study of a unique case.", "content": "A 34-year-old white man was found to have a nodule on the surface of right testis which turned out to be metastatic embryonal carcinoma within the tunica albuginea. Examination of the orchiectomy specimen revealed extensive undifferentiated intratubular germ cell tumor (carcinoma in situ) with foci of intratubular embryonal carcinoma and seminoma. Ultrastructure of the cells comprising the carcinoma in situ was similar to that of undifferentiated germ cells. The development of intratubular embryonal carcinoma and seminoma in a testis with extensive carcinoma in situ lends further support to the concept that carcinoma in situ or the testis represents an undifferentiated germ cell tumor from which other types of germ cell tumors of the testis may evolve.", "contents": "Undifferentiated intratubular germ cell tumor of the testis: light and electron microscopic study of a unique case. A 34-year-old white man was found to have a nodule on the surface of right testis which turned out to be metastatic embryonal carcinoma within the tunica albuginea. Examination of the orchiectomy specimen revealed extensive undifferentiated intratubular germ cell tumor (carcinoma in situ) with foci of intratubular embryonal carcinoma and seminoma. Ultrastructure of the cells comprising the carcinoma in situ was similar to that of undifferentiated germ cells. The development of intratubular embryonal carcinoma and seminoma in a testis with extensive carcinoma in situ lends further support to the concept that carcinoma in situ or the testis represents an undifferentiated germ cell tumor from which other types of germ cell tumors of the testis may evolve.", "PMID": 455223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11551", "title": "Solitary plasmacytoma. I: Extramedullary soft tissue plasmacytoma.", "content": "The details of 16 patients with extramedullary plasmacytoma are presented. All but one presented with localized disease, and all were treated successfully by radiotherapy. Only one patient developed local recurrence and only one has developed disseminated disease. Radiotherapy is recommended as the primary treatment of choice for these localized radiosensitive tumors. It is suggested that the good prognosis of plasmacytomas of the head and neck, in contrast to plasmacytomas arising at other sites, is related to the observation that a high proportion of these tumors are localized at the time of diagnosis and that very large primary tumors are uncommon.", "contents": "Solitary plasmacytoma. I: Extramedullary soft tissue plasmacytoma. The details of 16 patients with extramedullary plasmacytoma are presented. All but one presented with localized disease, and all were treated successfully by radiotherapy. Only one patient developed local recurrence and only one has developed disseminated disease. Radiotherapy is recommended as the primary treatment of choice for these localized radiosensitive tumors. It is suggested that the good prognosis of plasmacytomas of the head and neck, in contrast to plasmacytomas arising at other sites, is related to the observation that a high proportion of these tumors are localized at the time of diagnosis and that very large primary tumors are uncommon.", "PMID": 455224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11552", "title": "Solitary plasmacytoma. II: Solitary plasmacytoma of bone.", "content": "The clinical features and the results of treatment of twelve patients with solitary plasmacytoma of bone (SPB) are reported. The median age at presentation was 53 years and there was a predominance of males. Five patients have developed multiple myeloma (MM), for within three years and one after twelve years. Seven patients have not shown evidence of dissemination, and five are alive 1--15 years (median 9 years) after diagnosis. Two patients had metastases to local lymph nodes. There are no reliable criteria by which patients with truly SPB can be prospectively distinguished from those with occult MM, and it is recommended that all patients with apparent SPB should receive \"curative\" local therapy.", "contents": "Solitary plasmacytoma. II: Solitary plasmacytoma of bone. The clinical features and the results of treatment of twelve patients with solitary plasmacytoma of bone (SPB) are reported. The median age at presentation was 53 years and there was a predominance of males. Five patients have developed multiple myeloma (MM), for within three years and one after twelve years. Seven patients have not shown evidence of dissemination, and five are alive 1--15 years (median 9 years) after diagnosis. Two patients had metastases to local lymph nodes. There are no reliable criteria by which patients with truly SPB can be prospectively distinguished from those with occult MM, and it is recommended that all patients with apparent SPB should receive \"curative\" local therapy.", "PMID": 455225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11553", "title": "Short-term tissue culture of human breast cancer: presence of estrogen receptors and 17 beta-estradiol stimulation of RNA synthesis.", "content": "The stimulation of RNA synthesis induced by estradiol has been studied on 60 breast cancers in short-term cultures. In the same tumors the estrogen receptor (ER) assay was carried out. In 35% of the cases studied the stimulating effect by estradiol in vitro was observed. The frequency of response to in vitro hormone treatment was higher (42%) in ER+ cancers and lower (25%) in ER- cancers. The specificity of the in vitro test was assessed by the use of tamoxifen.", "contents": "Short-term tissue culture of human breast cancer: presence of estrogen receptors and 17 beta-estradiol stimulation of RNA synthesis. The stimulation of RNA synthesis induced by estradiol has been studied on 60 breast cancers in short-term cultures. In the same tumors the estrogen receptor (ER) assay was carried out. In 35% of the cases studied the stimulating effect by estradiol in vitro was observed. The frequency of response to in vitro hormone treatment was higher (42%) in ER+ cancers and lower (25%) in ER- cancers. The specificity of the in vitro test was assessed by the use of tamoxifen.", "PMID": 455226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11554", "title": "Fluctuation of serum complement levels in children with neuroblastoma.", "content": "Serum samples from eleven children with neuroblastoma were drawn at diagnosis and again every 15 days or a month after the beginning of treatment over the course of 17 months observation. Twenty healthy children of the same age with no appreciable clinical manifestation were also studied as controls. Investigations included quantitative serum complement levels (total complement hemolytic activity, C3 and C4), anticomplementary serum activity and urine catecholamine levels (VMA and HVA). Complement levels of tumor patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects, but fluctuations were seen at different stages of the disease; patients at admission with active tumors or tumor recurrence had higher complement levels than those of patients in remission. Temporary recurrences of the disease were usually accompanied by fluctuations of urinary catecholamines, serum complement levels (mainly C3) and anticomplementary serum activity. At the terminal phase of the disease a drop in complement levels was usually seen, while urinary catecholamines were progressively increasing.", "contents": "Fluctuation of serum complement levels in children with neuroblastoma. Serum samples from eleven children with neuroblastoma were drawn at diagnosis and again every 15 days or a month after the beginning of treatment over the course of 17 months observation. Twenty healthy children of the same age with no appreciable clinical manifestation were also studied as controls. Investigations included quantitative serum complement levels (total complement hemolytic activity, C3 and C4), anticomplementary serum activity and urine catecholamine levels (VMA and HVA). Complement levels of tumor patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects, but fluctuations were seen at different stages of the disease; patients at admission with active tumors or tumor recurrence had higher complement levels than those of patients in remission. Temporary recurrences of the disease were usually accompanied by fluctuations of urinary catecholamines, serum complement levels (mainly C3) and anticomplementary serum activity. At the terminal phase of the disease a drop in complement levels was usually seen, while urinary catecholamines were progressively increasing.", "PMID": 455227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11555", "title": "Thyroid carcinoma: a clinical and pathologic study of 125 cases.", "content": "Retrospective clinicopathological study of 125 thyroid carcinoma cases followed for 9 to 19 years was performed. Case selection for unfavorable histologic type and advanced disease was observed for referred cases. All medullary and anaplastic tumors were in patients over age 40; younger patients all had papillary and follicular carcinoma. Actuarial survival rates showed favorable outcome from papillary carcinoma followed by follicular and medullary or anaplastic tumors. Within the papillary carcinoma group, older age and male sex adversely affected survival; the former appeared related to clinical stage at presentation. Clinically palpable papillary carcinomas that were poorly circumscribed or showed vascular invasion were associated with poorer survival than tumors without these features. For papillary carcinomas under 1.5 cm, soft tissue invasion, vascular invasion, and occult lymph node metastases did not effect disease free survival. Two deaths from thyroid cancer were observed in this group, however, in patients who presented initially and with distant metastases. The biology of these small lesions is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Thyroid carcinoma: a clinical and pathologic study of 125 cases. Retrospective clinicopathological study of 125 thyroid carcinoma cases followed for 9 to 19 years was performed. Case selection for unfavorable histologic type and advanced disease was observed for referred cases. All medullary and anaplastic tumors were in patients over age 40; younger patients all had papillary and follicular carcinoma. Actuarial survival rates showed favorable outcome from papillary carcinoma followed by follicular and medullary or anaplastic tumors. Within the papillary carcinoma group, older age and male sex adversely affected survival; the former appeared related to clinical stage at presentation. Clinically palpable papillary carcinomas that were poorly circumscribed or showed vascular invasion were associated with poorer survival than tumors without these features. For papillary carcinomas under 1.5 cm, soft tissue invasion, vascular invasion, and occult lymph node metastases did not effect disease free survival. Two deaths from thyroid cancer were observed in this group, however, in patients who presented initially and with distant metastases. The biology of these small lesions is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 455228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11556", "title": "In situ carcinoma of the vocal cords.", "content": "Eighty-one patients with preinvasive carcinoma of the vocal cord, seen over a thirteen year period, were reviewed histologically and analyzed for response to treatment. Sixty-seven cases were clinically T1 and fourteen cases T2 (by virtue of extension of disease beyond the vocal cord). All patients had mobile cords. Histological criteria for in situ carcinoma and the spectrum of microscopic patterns are presented. Sixty-nine patients were treated by external beam radiotherapy--the remainder by a variety of surgical procedures. Five and ten year actuarial, recurrence-free rates 83% and 75%, respectively for the group treated by irradiation. No difference in local control was observed when analyzed for: 1) dose response, 2) initial extent of disease, 3) treatment plan, or 4) histologic diagnosis. Analysis of failures reveals that 15/17 patients with local failure were salvaged, eleven of these patients requiring laryngectomy. Time to appearance of recurrence ranged from seven to one hundred and seven months.", "contents": "In situ carcinoma of the vocal cords. Eighty-one patients with preinvasive carcinoma of the vocal cord, seen over a thirteen year period, were reviewed histologically and analyzed for response to treatment. Sixty-seven cases were clinically T1 and fourteen cases T2 (by virtue of extension of disease beyond the vocal cord). All patients had mobile cords. Histological criteria for in situ carcinoma and the spectrum of microscopic patterns are presented. Sixty-nine patients were treated by external beam radiotherapy--the remainder by a variety of surgical procedures. Five and ten year actuarial, recurrence-free rates 83% and 75%, respectively for the group treated by irradiation. No difference in local control was observed when analyzed for: 1) dose response, 2) initial extent of disease, 3) treatment plan, or 4) histologic diagnosis. Analysis of failures reveals that 15/17 patients with local failure were salvaged, eleven of these patients requiring laryngectomy. Time to appearance of recurrence ranged from seven to one hundred and seven months.", "PMID": 455229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11557", "title": "Effect of secretin and cholecystokinin-pancreozymin on plasma CEA concentration in patients with pancreatic carcinoma and pancreatitis.", "content": "Plasma CEA concentration before and after administration of secretin and cholecystokinin-pancreozymin has been determined in 89 patients with neoplastic or inflammatory pancreatric disease and other neoplastic and nonneoplastic disorders. The purpose of the study was to expore the specificity and sensitivity of such a provocation tests. Some rise of the plasma CEA concentration after hormonal stimulation could be observed in several patients in the various groups. However, none of the 37 patients with nonpancreatic disease who had a basal CEA concentration of 6 micrograms/l or less had a maximal CEA concentration above 13 micrograms/l after the stimulation whereas 7 out of 31 patients with pancreatic disease (3 with pancreatic carcinoma and 4 with chronic pancreatitis) showed such an elevation of plasma CEA concentration. Thus, the provocation test showed a satisfactory specificity for pancreatic disease but a low sensitivity. It is suggested that the possibility of an effect of physiologically released gastrointestinal hormones should be considered when \"unexplained\" high CEA values are found in plasma samples from nonfasting patients.", "contents": "Effect of secretin and cholecystokinin-pancreozymin on plasma CEA concentration in patients with pancreatic carcinoma and pancreatitis. Plasma CEA concentration before and after administration of secretin and cholecystokinin-pancreozymin has been determined in 89 patients with neoplastic or inflammatory pancreatric disease and other neoplastic and nonneoplastic disorders. The purpose of the study was to expore the specificity and sensitivity of such a provocation tests. Some rise of the plasma CEA concentration after hormonal stimulation could be observed in several patients in the various groups. However, none of the 37 patients with nonpancreatic disease who had a basal CEA concentration of 6 micrograms/l or less had a maximal CEA concentration above 13 micrograms/l after the stimulation whereas 7 out of 31 patients with pancreatic disease (3 with pancreatic carcinoma and 4 with chronic pancreatitis) showed such an elevation of plasma CEA concentration. Thus, the provocation test showed a satisfactory specificity for pancreatic disease but a low sensitivity. It is suggested that the possibility of an effect of physiologically released gastrointestinal hormones should be considered when \"unexplained\" high CEA values are found in plasma samples from nonfasting patients.", "PMID": 455230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11558", "title": "Predictive value of serial carcinoembryonic antigen levels in long-term follow-up of ovarian cancer.", "content": "The predictive value of serial levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in tumor monitoring was examined in 213 patients with ovarian cancer; each patient had been followed-up at monthly intervals for at least 12 months. CEA was not detectable throughout the period of observation in 35% of the patients. In general. patterns showing a disappearance of CEA or persistently low levels were associated with a good prognosis, whereas those showing a reappearance or highly elevated and rising levels were associated with a poor prognosis. A transient reappearance of CEA was observed in 10 patients; this did not appear to be associated with tumor recurrence or progression. \"False positive\" results were obtained in 6 patients in whom no tumor has been clinically detectable to date. \"False negative\" results were obtained in 4 patients with obvious tumor progression. In terms of a good or poor prognosis, the use of CEA levels was highly accurate in patients with minimal or no residual disease (97% and 89%, respectively); the rate fell to 62% in patients with extensive disease. As the clinical significance and limitations become better known, serial CEA levels should contribute substantially to the monitoring of patients with ovarian cancer.", "contents": "Predictive value of serial carcinoembryonic antigen levels in long-term follow-up of ovarian cancer. The predictive value of serial levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in tumor monitoring was examined in 213 patients with ovarian cancer; each patient had been followed-up at monthly intervals for at least 12 months. CEA was not detectable throughout the period of observation in 35% of the patients. In general. patterns showing a disappearance of CEA or persistently low levels were associated with a good prognosis, whereas those showing a reappearance or highly elevated and rising levels were associated with a poor prognosis. A transient reappearance of CEA was observed in 10 patients; this did not appear to be associated with tumor recurrence or progression. \"False positive\" results were obtained in 6 patients in whom no tumor has been clinically detectable to date. \"False negative\" results were obtained in 4 patients with obvious tumor progression. In terms of a good or poor prognosis, the use of CEA levels was highly accurate in patients with minimal or no residual disease (97% and 89%, respectively); the rate fell to 62% in patients with extensive disease. As the clinical significance and limitations become better known, serial CEA levels should contribute substantially to the monitoring of patients with ovarian cancer.", "PMID": 455231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11559", "title": "Adenocarcinoma in situ of the vagina: a case report.", "content": "The clinical and pathological features of a case of adenocarcinoma in situ of the vagina diagnosed in a 40-year-old woman with a negative history for intrauterine DES exposure are reported. The lesion was diagnosed 15 months following hysterectomy for in situ squamous cell and in situ adenocarcinoma of the cervix. The vaginal lesion closely resembled colposcopically, cytologically, and histologically previously described cases of cervical adenocarcinoma in situ. The case was of additional interest pathologically because of a focal signet-ring cell component which exhibited extensive pagetoid invasion of the adjacent squamous mucosa. No previously reported examples of vaginal adenocarcinoma in situ could be found. The histogenesis of this entity is briefly discussed.", "contents": "Adenocarcinoma in situ of the vagina: a case report. The clinical and pathological features of a case of adenocarcinoma in situ of the vagina diagnosed in a 40-year-old woman with a negative history for intrauterine DES exposure are reported. The lesion was diagnosed 15 months following hysterectomy for in situ squamous cell and in situ adenocarcinoma of the cervix. The vaginal lesion closely resembled colposcopically, cytologically, and histologically previously described cases of cervical adenocarcinoma in situ. The case was of additional interest pathologically because of a focal signet-ring cell component which exhibited extensive pagetoid invasion of the adjacent squamous mucosa. No previously reported examples of vaginal adenocarcinoma in situ could be found. The histogenesis of this entity is briefly discussed.", "PMID": 455232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11560", "title": "Carcinoma in a heterotopically auto-implanted nipple.", "content": "Modified radical mastectomy with transplantation of the nipple in the groin for possible breast reconstruction was performed in a patient. Carcinoma developed in the transplanted nipple. Careful pathological examination of the breast tissue from the site of excised nipple should be carried out. In patients showing presence of tumor cells at that site, nipple transplantation may be deleterious.", "contents": "Carcinoma in a heterotopically auto-implanted nipple. Modified radical mastectomy with transplantation of the nipple in the groin for possible breast reconstruction was performed in a patient. Carcinoma developed in the transplanted nipple. Careful pathological examination of the breast tissue from the site of excised nipple should be carried out. In patients showing presence of tumor cells at that site, nipple transplantation may be deleterious.", "PMID": 455234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11561", "title": "Anaplastic seminoma: an analysis of 77 patients.", "content": "Over a 28 year period, 77 patients with early stage anaplastic seminoma of the testis were treated by orchiectomy and lymphatic irradiation at three Army medical centers. With a median follow-up of 97 months, the 10 year actuarial survival is 96% of Stage I patients and 87% for Stage II patients. For patients with Stage I anaplastic seminoma no survival advantage can be demonstrated for adding mediastinal and supraclavicular irradiation versus para-aortic and pelvic irradiation alone. The addition of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy to lymphatic irradiation increased the frequency of major gastrointestinal complications without significantly improving survival. Patients with anaplastic seminoma and elevated serum beta-subunit human chorionic gonadotrophin levels have a poor prognosis and should be considered for adjuvant combination chemotherapy. Anaplastic seminoma of the testis has a similar clinical presentation, response to therapy and prognosis compared to typical seminoma and should be managed in the same way.", "contents": "Anaplastic seminoma: an analysis of 77 patients. Over a 28 year period, 77 patients with early stage anaplastic seminoma of the testis were treated by orchiectomy and lymphatic irradiation at three Army medical centers. With a median follow-up of 97 months, the 10 year actuarial survival is 96% of Stage I patients and 87% for Stage II patients. For patients with Stage I anaplastic seminoma no survival advantage can be demonstrated for adding mediastinal and supraclavicular irradiation versus para-aortic and pelvic irradiation alone. The addition of retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy to lymphatic irradiation increased the frequency of major gastrointestinal complications without significantly improving survival. Patients with anaplastic seminoma and elevated serum beta-subunit human chorionic gonadotrophin levels have a poor prognosis and should be considered for adjuvant combination chemotherapy. Anaplastic seminoma of the testis has a similar clinical presentation, response to therapy and prognosis compared to typical seminoma and should be managed in the same way.", "PMID": 455236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11562", "title": "The staging of testicular tumors.", "content": "Sufficient information was recorded in the majority of a series of 531 germinal malignancies of the testis, to stage them retrospectively according to the T.N.M. staging system recommended by the U.I.C.C. and compare this with a locally devised scheme. By separately analyzing the commonest pathological types (differentiated seminoma, malignant teratoma intermediate and undifferentiated malignant teratoma) the histological influence on prognosis was minimized in this comparison. The predictive ability and greater simplicity of the Peter MacCallum Hospital system appears to be superior and it is put forward as an advance in staging for consideration when this comes up for review. It is pointed out that reporting results according to a more rigorous staging system can give the impression that survival figures are better than those obtained at another center using less stringent criteria, when in fact the overall results are the same and nothing has been done for the individual patient. This must be allowed for when considering different methods of treatment. Because of the importance of biochemical markers their inclusion in any staging system is essential; however, they are difficult if not impossible to incorporate under the anatomical sections. A separate category is proposed.", "contents": "The staging of testicular tumors. Sufficient information was recorded in the majority of a series of 531 germinal malignancies of the testis, to stage them retrospectively according to the T.N.M. staging system recommended by the U.I.C.C. and compare this with a locally devised scheme. By separately analyzing the commonest pathological types (differentiated seminoma, malignant teratoma intermediate and undifferentiated malignant teratoma) the histological influence on prognosis was minimized in this comparison. The predictive ability and greater simplicity of the Peter MacCallum Hospital system appears to be superior and it is put forward as an advance in staging for consideration when this comes up for review. It is pointed out that reporting results according to a more rigorous staging system can give the impression that survival figures are better than those obtained at another center using less stringent criteria, when in fact the overall results are the same and nothing has been done for the individual patient. This must be allowed for when considering different methods of treatment. Because of the importance of biochemical markers their inclusion in any staging system is essential; however, they are difficult if not impossible to incorporate under the anatomical sections. A separate category is proposed.", "PMID": 455237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11563", "title": "A prognostic study of urothelial renal pelvic tumors: comparison between the prognosis of patients treated with intrafascial nephrectomy and perifascial nephroureterectomy.", "content": "A comparison of the prognosis between 2 series of patients with urothelial renal pelvic tumors is presented. One series comprising 70 patients was operated with intrafascial nephrectomy with extirpation of varying length of the ureter. The other series comprising 38 patients was operated with transabdominal perifascial nephrectomy with homolateral adrenalectomy, total ureterectomy and in 28 patients retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. The 5-year survival was 51% in the patients operated with intrafascial nephrectomy and 84% in the patients operated with perifascial nephrectomy. The difference in prognosis is statistically significant (p less than or equal to 0.01) and cannot be explained by differences in extent of tumor infiltration, tumor grade or tumor size. The main difference in prognosis between the two series was in patients with high stage tumors (Grabstald stage 3 and 4). The 5-year survival was 74% in patients with stage 3 and 4 tumors in the patients operated with perifascial nephrectomy compared with 37% in the patients operated with intrafascial nephrectomy. Since it is not possible with absolute certainty to determine tumor stage before the operation, an aggressive attitude against urothelial renal pelvic tumors is recommended. Thus the patients should undergo transabdominal perifascial nephroureterectomy including a cuff of the bladder wall and homolateral adrenalectomy. In patient with bilateral tumors, renal insufficiency of tumor in a single kidney parenchyma saving partial resection must be performed.", "contents": "A prognostic study of urothelial renal pelvic tumors: comparison between the prognosis of patients treated with intrafascial nephrectomy and perifascial nephroureterectomy. A comparison of the prognosis between 2 series of patients with urothelial renal pelvic tumors is presented. One series comprising 70 patients was operated with intrafascial nephrectomy with extirpation of varying length of the ureter. The other series comprising 38 patients was operated with transabdominal perifascial nephrectomy with homolateral adrenalectomy, total ureterectomy and in 28 patients retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. The 5-year survival was 51% in the patients operated with intrafascial nephrectomy and 84% in the patients operated with perifascial nephrectomy. The difference in prognosis is statistically significant (p less than or equal to 0.01) and cannot be explained by differences in extent of tumor infiltration, tumor grade or tumor size. The main difference in prognosis between the two series was in patients with high stage tumors (Grabstald stage 3 and 4). The 5-year survival was 74% in patients with stage 3 and 4 tumors in the patients operated with perifascial nephrectomy compared with 37% in the patients operated with intrafascial nephrectomy. Since it is not possible with absolute certainty to determine tumor stage before the operation, an aggressive attitude against urothelial renal pelvic tumors is recommended. Thus the patients should undergo transabdominal perifascial nephroureterectomy including a cuff of the bladder wall and homolateral adrenalectomy. In patient with bilateral tumors, renal insufficiency of tumor in a single kidney parenchyma saving partial resection must be performed.", "PMID": 455238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11564", "title": "Bladder carcinoma as a systemic disease.", "content": "Pne hundred and fifty-one patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder who were evaluated by conventional means preoperatively underwent a radical cystectomy. They were then classified according to the highest known pathological stage, first site of postoperative metastasis and the temporal relationship of the cystectomy to the appearance of the metastasis. Fifty patients developed metastases, 80% of which were proven histologically. Thirty-nine of fifty patients (78%) who developed metastases did so within a year of cystectomy. Extent of local tumor was directly related to the incidence of positive pelvic nodes. Metastases occurred most commonly in lung and bone. Soft tissues of the pelvis were involved in thirteen (16%) of the patients who developed metastatic carcinoma and those patients with positive pelvic nodes were more likely to have these kinds of recurrent disease. These evaluations suggest that the metastases must be present at cystectomy or as a result of it. The data imply the existence of appreciable heterogeneity among patients and/or their invasive bladder carcinoma. Disseminated but silent metastases suggest that a relationship between the primary tumor and the occurrence of metastatic disease may exist. Knowledge of this relationship is very important in planning subsequent therapeutic strategies.", "contents": "Bladder carcinoma as a systemic disease. Pne hundred and fifty-one patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder who were evaluated by conventional means preoperatively underwent a radical cystectomy. They were then classified according to the highest known pathological stage, first site of postoperative metastasis and the temporal relationship of the cystectomy to the appearance of the metastasis. Fifty patients developed metastases, 80% of which were proven histologically. Thirty-nine of fifty patients (78%) who developed metastases did so within a year of cystectomy. Extent of local tumor was directly related to the incidence of positive pelvic nodes. Metastases occurred most commonly in lung and bone. Soft tissues of the pelvis were involved in thirteen (16%) of the patients who developed metastatic carcinoma and those patients with positive pelvic nodes were more likely to have these kinds of recurrent disease. These evaluations suggest that the metastases must be present at cystectomy or as a result of it. The data imply the existence of appreciable heterogeneity among patients and/or their invasive bladder carcinoma. Disseminated but silent metastases suggest that a relationship between the primary tumor and the occurrence of metastatic disease may exist. Knowledge of this relationship is very important in planning subsequent therapeutic strategies.", "PMID": 455239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11565", "title": "Cancers of the large bowel: associated disorders in individuals.", "content": "The individual medical histories in the files of the Oxford Record Linkage Study for the years 1963 to 1967 were analyzed to ascertain any previously unsuspected associations between cancers of the large bowel and other diseases in individuals, and to quantify the relative risks of disorders already known to be associated. In males significant associations were shown between cancers of the large bowel and cancer of the prostate. In females, cancer of the colon was associated with breast cancer, and cancer of the rectum with a mixed group of genital cancers. The relative risk of colorectal cancer associated with previous benign neoplasms of the large bowel was 20, and with ulcerative colitis, 25. There was no significant association with appendicitis or long-standing diverticular disease.", "contents": "Cancers of the large bowel: associated disorders in individuals. The individual medical histories in the files of the Oxford Record Linkage Study for the years 1963 to 1967 were analyzed to ascertain any previously unsuspected associations between cancers of the large bowel and other diseases in individuals, and to quantify the relative risks of disorders already known to be associated. In males significant associations were shown between cancers of the large bowel and cancer of the prostate. In females, cancer of the colon was associated with breast cancer, and cancer of the rectum with a mixed group of genital cancers. The relative risk of colorectal cancer associated with previous benign neoplasms of the large bowel was 20, and with ulcerative colitis, 25. There was no significant association with appendicitis or long-standing diverticular disease.", "PMID": 455240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11566", "title": "Receptor sites for complement and for immune complexes on human nonhemopoietic tumor cells.", "content": "Tumor cells in primary cultures derived from 11 untreated nonhemopoietic cancer patients were reacted with specifically coated sheep erythrocytes. Rosette formation between tumor and indicator cells was assessed, Eight of the primary cultures reacted positively with both IgG-coated (EAIgG) and with IgM-human complement coated (EAIgMC or EAIgMC 4,3) sheep erythrocytes. EAIgG rosette formation in positive cultures ranged from 25 to 85%, and for EAIgMC/EAIgMC 4,3 reactivity ranged between 22--95%. Rosette formation with E (uncoated) and EAIgM was negligible. These findings suggest that human nonhemopoietic tumor cells may carry on their surface receptor sites for an IgG component of immune complexes and for human complement. These receptor sites may be important in the host-tumor relationship.", "contents": "Receptor sites for complement and for immune complexes on human nonhemopoietic tumor cells. Tumor cells in primary cultures derived from 11 untreated nonhemopoietic cancer patients were reacted with specifically coated sheep erythrocytes. Rosette formation between tumor and indicator cells was assessed, Eight of the primary cultures reacted positively with both IgG-coated (EAIgG) and with IgM-human complement coated (EAIgMC or EAIgMC 4,3) sheep erythrocytes. EAIgG rosette formation in positive cultures ranged from 25 to 85%, and for EAIgMC/EAIgMC 4,3 reactivity ranged between 22--95%. Rosette formation with E (uncoated) and EAIgM was negligible. These findings suggest that human nonhemopoietic tumor cells may carry on their surface receptor sites for an IgG component of immune complexes and for human complement. These receptor sites may be important in the host-tumor relationship.", "PMID": 455241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11567", "title": "Sweat gland carcinoma with syringomatous features: a light microscopic and ultrastructural study.", "content": "A 76-year-old man presented with a 10-year history of a slowly enlarging lesion of his upper lip. An excisional biopsy revealed a diffusely infiltrating, well-differentiated, sweat gland carcinoma with syringomatous features. The ultrastructural characteristics corresponded to those described for benign syringoma and normal eccrine ducts. A review of the literature emphasized the extreme rarity of this lesion. Sweat gland carcinomas tend to have an indolent history but often manifest aggressive behavior at the time of clinical presentation. The preponderance of anaplastic lesions accounts for a generally unfavorable prognosis.", "contents": "Sweat gland carcinoma with syringomatous features: a light microscopic and ultrastructural study. A 76-year-old man presented with a 10-year history of a slowly enlarging lesion of his upper lip. An excisional biopsy revealed a diffusely infiltrating, well-differentiated, sweat gland carcinoma with syringomatous features. The ultrastructural characteristics corresponded to those described for benign syringoma and normal eccrine ducts. A review of the literature emphasized the extreme rarity of this lesion. Sweat gland carcinomas tend to have an indolent history but often manifest aggressive behavior at the time of clinical presentation. The preponderance of anaplastic lesions accounts for a generally unfavorable prognosis.", "PMID": 455242} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11568", "title": "Hodgkin's cells and attached lymphocytes: a possible prognostic indicator in splenic tumor.", "content": "After the purification of Hodgkin's cells by a previously reported method from splenic tumor of 8 patients with Stages III or IV Hodgkin's disease, we have examined the proportions of Hodgkin's cells with attached lymphocytes. All patients were studied 3--5 years after staging laparotomy. Four patients had no recurrent disease; 3 had histologically confirmed recurrent disease; and 1 had clinically suspected recurrent disease (enlarged nodes) but has thus far refused further medical study and care. The proportion of purified Hodgkin's cells which had attached lymphocytes was consistently higher in the patients who were clinically free of disease. The possible biological significance of this observation is discussed briefly and would appear to warrant further investigation of this phenomenon in more patients with splenic tumor than are available to us.", "contents": "Hodgkin's cells and attached lymphocytes: a possible prognostic indicator in splenic tumor. After the purification of Hodgkin's cells by a previously reported method from splenic tumor of 8 patients with Stages III or IV Hodgkin's disease, we have examined the proportions of Hodgkin's cells with attached lymphocytes. All patients were studied 3--5 years after staging laparotomy. Four patients had no recurrent disease; 3 had histologically confirmed recurrent disease; and 1 had clinically suspected recurrent disease (enlarged nodes) but has thus far refused further medical study and care. The proportion of purified Hodgkin's cells which had attached lymphocytes was consistently higher in the patients who were clinically free of disease. The possible biological significance of this observation is discussed briefly and would appear to warrant further investigation of this phenomenon in more patients with splenic tumor than are available to us.", "PMID": 455243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11569", "title": "Bone marrow metastases without cortical bone involvement in breast cancer patients.", "content": "Bone marrow involvement by breast carcinoma in the absence of demonstrable bone lesions is unusual. We report six patients with medullary tumor without demonstration of cortical bone abnormality on scan or radiographs. This represents 2.8% of 213 patients with breast cancer in which bone marrow examination was performed and 6.2% of those in which marrow involvement was demonstrated.", "contents": "Bone marrow metastases without cortical bone involvement in breast cancer patients. Bone marrow involvement by breast carcinoma in the absence of demonstrable bone lesions is unusual. We report six patients with medullary tumor without demonstration of cortical bone abnormality on scan or radiographs. This represents 2.8% of 213 patients with breast cancer in which bone marrow examination was performed and 6.2% of those in which marrow involvement was demonstrated.", "PMID": 455244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11570", "title": "A new approach to the differential diagnosis of human malignant melanomas.", "content": "In an attempt to improve the diagnosis of melanotic tumors, we have compared the diagnosis obtained by histological examination of 216 skin tumors and their metastases with that obtained by using a conjunction of four techniques: tissue culture, cytoenzymology, in situ electron microscopy and 5-S-cysteinyldopa (5-S-CD) assay. In 46 cases the final diagnosis as determined by one or more of these tests differed from the initial histological diagnosis, but was confirmed by repeat histological examination. We conclude that this method presents a valuable new approach to the differential diagnosis of human malignant melanoma.", "contents": "A new approach to the differential diagnosis of human malignant melanomas. In an attempt to improve the diagnosis of melanotic tumors, we have compared the diagnosis obtained by histological examination of 216 skin tumors and their metastases with that obtained by using a conjunction of four techniques: tissue culture, cytoenzymology, in situ electron microscopy and 5-S-cysteinyldopa (5-S-CD) assay. In 46 cases the final diagnosis as determined by one or more of these tests differed from the initial histological diagnosis, but was confirmed by repeat histological examination. We conclude that this method presents a valuable new approach to the differential diagnosis of human malignant melanoma.", "PMID": 455245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11571", "title": "Electrophoresis of tissue glycosaminoglycans as an aid in the diagnosis of mesotheliomas.", "content": "The histologic distinction between mesotheliomas and adenocarcinomas on mesothelial surfaces is sometimes difficult. High concentrations of hyaluronic acid in pleural and peritoneal fluids of mesothelioma patients have been reported. This paper describes results of glycosaminoglycan electrophoresis of papain digests of 7 mesotheliomas and 27 other tumors. Either all or almost all demonstrable glycosaminoglycans in mesotherliomas was hyaluronic acid. Control tissues had variable electrophoretic patterns showing other glycosaminoglycans in addition to hyaluronic acid. In the clinical context of differentiating mesotheliomas and adenocarcinomas in tissue samples, this technique seems simple, economical, and relatively specific.", "contents": "Electrophoresis of tissue glycosaminoglycans as an aid in the diagnosis of mesotheliomas. The histologic distinction between mesotheliomas and adenocarcinomas on mesothelial surfaces is sometimes difficult. High concentrations of hyaluronic acid in pleural and peritoneal fluids of mesothelioma patients have been reported. This paper describes results of glycosaminoglycan electrophoresis of papain digests of 7 mesotheliomas and 27 other tumors. Either all or almost all demonstrable glycosaminoglycans in mesotherliomas was hyaluronic acid. Control tissues had variable electrophoretic patterns showing other glycosaminoglycans in addition to hyaluronic acid. In the clinical context of differentiating mesotheliomas and adenocarcinomas in tissue samples, this technique seems simple, economical, and relatively specific.", "PMID": 455246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11572", "title": "Estrogen receptor values in patients with benign breast disease.", "content": "Tissue specimens from 55 female patients with benign breast disease were assayed for estrogen receptor. Twenty-one of 55 patients (38%) had tumors which contained significant amounts of estrogen receptor (greater than 10 femtomoles/mg protein). Fibroadenomas possessed estrogen receptor more frequently than fibrocystic disease or other benign breast tumors. Estrogen receptor positivity did not correlate with laterality of the tumor; location or size of the largest nodule. Patients with estrogen receptor positive tumors had a mean age of 26.9 years compared to 36.4 years for patients with estrogen receptor negative tumors (p less than 0.01). Twenty of 46 (43%) premenopausal patients had benign tumors which were estrogen receptor positive compared to zero of 8 postmenopausal patients (p less than 0.05).", "contents": "Estrogen receptor values in patients with benign breast disease. Tissue specimens from 55 female patients with benign breast disease were assayed for estrogen receptor. Twenty-one of 55 patients (38%) had tumors which contained significant amounts of estrogen receptor (greater than 10 femtomoles/mg protein). Fibroadenomas possessed estrogen receptor more frequently than fibrocystic disease or other benign breast tumors. Estrogen receptor positivity did not correlate with laterality of the tumor; location or size of the largest nodule. Patients with estrogen receptor positive tumors had a mean age of 26.9 years compared to 36.4 years for patients with estrogen receptor negative tumors (p less than 0.01). Twenty of 46 (43%) premenopausal patients had benign tumors which were estrogen receptor positive compared to zero of 8 postmenopausal patients (p less than 0.05).", "PMID": 455247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11573", "title": "Concomitant arteriovenous vascular malformation in skeletal muscle: a clinical, angiographic and histologic study.", "content": "A vascular malformation in skeletal muscle is described in 4 patients. Pathologically and anatomically, it consists of an abundance of concomitant arteries and veins and thick-walled capillaries. Angiography demonstrates the high vascularity of the lesion, and contrast medium appears early in draining veins indicating arteriovenous shunting. In the angiograms, the highly vascular region displays a certain striation which is due to the presence of muscle fiber bundles running between the pathologic vessels. This angiographic picture suggests benignity: an intramuscular malignant tumor rarely leaves intact muscle fiber bundles passing right through it.", "contents": "Concomitant arteriovenous vascular malformation in skeletal muscle: a clinical, angiographic and histologic study. A vascular malformation in skeletal muscle is described in 4 patients. Pathologically and anatomically, it consists of an abundance of concomitant arteries and veins and thick-walled capillaries. Angiography demonstrates the high vascularity of the lesion, and contrast medium appears early in draining veins indicating arteriovenous shunting. In the angiograms, the highly vascular region displays a certain striation which is due to the presence of muscle fiber bundles running between the pathologic vessels. This angiographic picture suggests benignity: an intramuscular malignant tumor rarely leaves intact muscle fiber bundles passing right through it.", "PMID": 455248} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11574", "title": "Adrenal cortical carcinoma: a clinical and pathologic study of 49 cases.", "content": "The clinical and pathologic features of 49 patients with adrenal cortical carcinoma are presented. The series included 26 men and 23 women with a mean age of 34 years. The average duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was 6.6 months. Eighteen patients (37%) presented with recognizable endocrine syndromes secondary to excess tumor steroid production. Surgical excision was the only mode of therapy to offer any opportunity for prolonged survival. Nine of the 21 patients (43%) with a completely resectable tumor were alive with no evidence of disease an average of 7.2 years postoperatively. Death due to metastatic tumor occurred in 36 of the 49 patients (73%) an average of 8.7 months following diagnosis. Chemotherapy had no apparent effect on outcome while radiotherapy produced an objective palliative response in 50% of treated patients. The average size and weight of the tumors were 12.4 cm and 875.6 g, respectively. The difficulty of precise pathologic classification of certain large adrenal tumors is discussed and the importance of histopathologic features relative to gross morphologic findings is emphasized.", "contents": "Adrenal cortical carcinoma: a clinical and pathologic study of 49 cases. The clinical and pathologic features of 49 patients with adrenal cortical carcinoma are presented. The series included 26 men and 23 women with a mean age of 34 years. The average duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was 6.6 months. Eighteen patients (37%) presented with recognizable endocrine syndromes secondary to excess tumor steroid production. Surgical excision was the only mode of therapy to offer any opportunity for prolonged survival. Nine of the 21 patients (43%) with a completely resectable tumor were alive with no evidence of disease an average of 7.2 years postoperatively. Death due to metastatic tumor occurred in 36 of the 49 patients (73%) an average of 8.7 months following diagnosis. Chemotherapy had no apparent effect on outcome while radiotherapy produced an objective palliative response in 50% of treated patients. The average size and weight of the tumors were 12.4 cm and 875.6 g, respectively. The difficulty of precise pathologic classification of certain large adrenal tumors is discussed and the importance of histopathologic features relative to gross morphologic findings is emphasized.", "PMID": 455249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11575", "title": "Lymph node metastases with PAS-positive tumor cells and massive epithelioid granulomatous reaction as diagnostic clue to occult seminoma.", "content": "Two cases of occult seminoma were observed which showed left-sided lymph node metastases without clinically demonstrable testicular tumors. The peculiar histology of the lymph node metastases, namely PAS-positive tumor cells with clear cytoplasm together with a granulomatous stromal reaction, was highly suggestive of seminoma. Despite lack of testicular enlargement in both cases, a left-sided orchiectomy was done. Histologically, intratubular seminomas were found which confirmed the original diagnostic suspicions derived from the morphology of the lymph node metastases. It is concluded, therefore, that in the case of lymph node metastases with the above-mentioned structure, occult seminoma should always be taken into consideration. Because of the modern beneficial therapeutic implications, detection of occult seminoma is very important.", "contents": "Lymph node metastases with PAS-positive tumor cells and massive epithelioid granulomatous reaction as diagnostic clue to occult seminoma. Two cases of occult seminoma were observed which showed left-sided lymph node metastases without clinically demonstrable testicular tumors. The peculiar histology of the lymph node metastases, namely PAS-positive tumor cells with clear cytoplasm together with a granulomatous stromal reaction, was highly suggestive of seminoma. Despite lack of testicular enlargement in both cases, a left-sided orchiectomy was done. Histologically, intratubular seminomas were found which confirmed the original diagnostic suspicions derived from the morphology of the lymph node metastases. It is concluded, therefore, that in the case of lymph node metastases with the above-mentioned structure, occult seminoma should always be taken into consideration. Because of the modern beneficial therapeutic implications, detection of occult seminoma is very important.", "PMID": 455250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11576", "title": "Recommendations for the analysis of the effect of treatment on the development of second malignancies.", "content": "Use of the person-years method for evaluating the association between treatment of a primary cancer and subsequent development of a second malignancy is reviewed. For this type of analysis, the risk of developing a second malignancy is implicitly assumed to remain constant during each patient's follow-up period; this assumption is shown to be inappropriate. When the oncogenic potential of two or more treatments is compared, results are biased unfavorably against the use of intensive treatments that prolong life. Misinterpretation of the oncogenic potential of such treatment regimens can therefore occur, and two alternative statistical techniques are proposed, each for use in a commonly encountered experimental situation. These fairly classic methods of survival analysis are recommended to ascertain the relationship between treatment and development of a second cancer.", "contents": "Recommendations for the analysis of the effect of treatment on the development of second malignancies. Use of the person-years method for evaluating the association between treatment of a primary cancer and subsequent development of a second malignancy is reviewed. For this type of analysis, the risk of developing a second malignancy is implicitly assumed to remain constant during each patient's follow-up period; this assumption is shown to be inappropriate. When the oncogenic potential of two or more treatments is compared, results are biased unfavorably against the use of intensive treatments that prolong life. Misinterpretation of the oncogenic potential of such treatment regimens can therefore occur, and two alternative statistical techniques are proposed, each for use in a commonly encountered experimental situation. These fairly classic methods of survival analysis are recommended to ascertain the relationship between treatment and development of a second cancer.", "PMID": 455251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11577", "title": "Cystic cerebellar astrocytomas in childhood.", "content": "Thirty-nine patients with low grade cystic cerebellar astrocytomas were treated at the University of Washington and Children's Orthopedic Hospital in Seattle, Washington, between 1955 and 1977; 29 were treated with partial or complete resection alone, and 10 received radiation therapy after various types of surgical procedures. With a mean follow-up time of 7 years, the survival rate for patients who had complete resections of their primary disease was 100%. The relapse-free survival rate was 82%. The relapse-free survival rate for patients treated primarily with partial resection alone was 36%. Postoperative irradiation after partial resection for both primary and recurrent disease resulted in a relapse-free survival rate of 83%. If complete tumor excision is not possible, postoperative radiation therapy is recommended following partial resection.", "contents": "Cystic cerebellar astrocytomas in childhood. Thirty-nine patients with low grade cystic cerebellar astrocytomas were treated at the University of Washington and Children's Orthopedic Hospital in Seattle, Washington, between 1955 and 1977; 29 were treated with partial or complete resection alone, and 10 received radiation therapy after various types of surgical procedures. With a mean follow-up time of 7 years, the survival rate for patients who had complete resections of their primary disease was 100%. The relapse-free survival rate was 82%. The relapse-free survival rate for patients treated primarily with partial resection alone was 36%. Postoperative irradiation after partial resection for both primary and recurrent disease resulted in a relapse-free survival rate of 83%. If complete tumor excision is not possible, postoperative radiation therapy is recommended following partial resection.", "PMID": 455252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11578", "title": "Rhabdomyosarcoma arising in a pineal teratoma.", "content": "Pineal teratomas are relatively uncommon intracranial neoplasms. A rhabdomyosarcoma developed in a pineal teratoma in a 14-year-old boy and was rapidly fatal despite radiation therapy. This is the second reported case of a pineal teratoma giving rise to a rhabdomyosarcoma.", "contents": "Rhabdomyosarcoma arising in a pineal teratoma. Pineal teratomas are relatively uncommon intracranial neoplasms. A rhabdomyosarcoma developed in a pineal teratoma in a 14-year-old boy and was rapidly fatal despite radiation therapy. This is the second reported case of a pineal teratoma giving rise to a rhabdomyosarcoma.", "PMID": 455253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11579", "title": "Tumors of the eye and adnexa in the Sudan.", "content": "854 lesions involving the eye and adnexa in the Sudan were studied as regards their frequency, sex and age incidence, site, pathologic types and geographic and racial distribution. Of 279 primary malignant tumors (frequency ratio 4.3%), conjunctival squamous carcinoma was the commonest (50.4%) while retinoblastoma formed 20.8%, basal cell carcinoma 6.1% and malignant melanoma 4.6%. Conjunctival carcinoma and allied epithelial lesions occurred much more predominently in Northern than in Southern Sudan and no basal cell carcinoma of the eyelids was recorded in the latter. Retinoblastoma and melanoma showed certain tribal predilections. Most cases of Burkitt's lymphoma occurred in Southern Sudan. It is concluded that geographic and racial factors play important roles in determining the frequency and pattern of eye neoplasms in the Sudan.", "contents": "Tumors of the eye and adnexa in the Sudan. 854 lesions involving the eye and adnexa in the Sudan were studied as regards their frequency, sex and age incidence, site, pathologic types and geographic and racial distribution. Of 279 primary malignant tumors (frequency ratio 4.3%), conjunctival squamous carcinoma was the commonest (50.4%) while retinoblastoma formed 20.8%, basal cell carcinoma 6.1% and malignant melanoma 4.6%. Conjunctival carcinoma and allied epithelial lesions occurred much more predominently in Northern than in Southern Sudan and no basal cell carcinoma of the eyelids was recorded in the latter. Retinoblastoma and melanoma showed certain tribal predilections. Most cases of Burkitt's lymphoma occurred in Southern Sudan. It is concluded that geographic and racial factors play important roles in determining the frequency and pattern of eye neoplasms in the Sudan.", "PMID": 455254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11580", "title": "Gestational choriocarcinoma and thyrotoxicosis.", "content": "A case of a 26-year-old woman with metastatic choriocarcinoma and clinical and biochemical thyrotoxicosis is described. This represents the eighth reported case of the association of choriocarcinoma and thyrotoxicosis. Serial monitoring of serum thyroxine (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels correlated precisely with the beta sub-unit human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level and the quantitation of host tumor burden. The development of a hypermetabolic syndrome in patients with choriocarcinoma may be due to secondary thyrotoxicosis from either the TSH-like activity of hCG or from the concomitant production of molar thyrotropin by the tumor.", "contents": "Gestational choriocarcinoma and thyrotoxicosis. A case of a 26-year-old woman with metastatic choriocarcinoma and clinical and biochemical thyrotoxicosis is described. This represents the eighth reported case of the association of choriocarcinoma and thyrotoxicosis. Serial monitoring of serum thyroxine (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels correlated precisely with the beta sub-unit human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level and the quantitation of host tumor burden. The development of a hypermetabolic syndrome in patients with choriocarcinoma may be due to secondary thyrotoxicosis from either the TSH-like activity of hCG or from the concomitant production of molar thyrotropin by the tumor.", "PMID": 455255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11581", "title": "Carcinoid tumor of the prostate associated with adenocarcinoma.", "content": "A case of carcinoid tumor associated with adenocarcinoma arising in the prostate was studied. The results confirmed the presence of argentaffin cells. The significance of their presence and relationship to functional adenocarcinoma of the prostate are discussed.", "contents": "Carcinoid tumor of the prostate associated with adenocarcinoma. A case of carcinoid tumor associated with adenocarcinoma arising in the prostate was studied. The results confirmed the presence of argentaffin cells. The significance of their presence and relationship to functional adenocarcinoma of the prostate are discussed.", "PMID": 455256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11582", "title": "Clinical examination of the breasts by nonphysicians: a viable screening option?", "content": "After four years of annual screening 10,566 women, physical examination (PE) by nurse clinicians is as effective in detecting suspect cases as is the examination of surgeons and the general medical community of Cincinnati. Carefully performed physical examination has found 45% of the extant cancers detected. Twenty-eight percent of the cancers detected by PE were minimal lesions. One-third of all the minimal cancers currently detectable were discovered by PE.", "contents": "Clinical examination of the breasts by nonphysicians: a viable screening option? After four years of annual screening 10,566 women, physical examination (PE) by nurse clinicians is as effective in detecting suspect cases as is the examination of surgeons and the general medical community of Cincinnati. Carefully performed physical examination has found 45% of the extant cancers detected. Twenty-eight percent of the cancers detected by PE were minimal lesions. One-third of all the minimal cancers currently detectable were discovered by PE.", "PMID": 455257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11583", "title": "Childhood bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors: a case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A bronchial mucoepidermoid tumor in a 13-year-old female was studied by light and electron microscopy. This is the seventh reported case of this rare bronchial neoplasm in a person less than 16 years of age and the only case, in any age group, which has been studied ultrastructurally. All reported cases of bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors in childhood have been histologically of the low grade (well differentiated) variety with a benign clinical course. Although there are histological features which distinguish this lesion from the even rarer bronchial mucous gland adenoma, the clinical features and biological potential of the two lesions in this age group appear to be identical. The optimal surgical therapy for bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors and mucous gland adenomas, when occurring in children, is identical. There must be total removal of either lesion with the sacrifice of as little normal lung as possible. When technically possible, a sleeve resection of the involved bronchus is recommended; however, in most cases, the location of the lesion requires a lobectomy for complete removal.", "contents": "Childhood bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors: a case report and review of the literature. A bronchial mucoepidermoid tumor in a 13-year-old female was studied by light and electron microscopy. This is the seventh reported case of this rare bronchial neoplasm in a person less than 16 years of age and the only case, in any age group, which has been studied ultrastructurally. All reported cases of bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors in childhood have been histologically of the low grade (well differentiated) variety with a benign clinical course. Although there are histological features which distinguish this lesion from the even rarer bronchial mucous gland adenoma, the clinical features and biological potential of the two lesions in this age group appear to be identical. The optimal surgical therapy for bronchial mucoepidermoid tumors and mucous gland adenomas, when occurring in children, is identical. There must be total removal of either lesion with the sacrifice of as little normal lung as possible. When technically possible, a sleeve resection of the involved bronchus is recommended; however, in most cases, the location of the lesion requires a lobectomy for complete removal.", "PMID": 455258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11584", "title": "Leiomyosarcomas of the small intestine.", "content": "Small bowel leiomyosarcomas are uncommon but potentially curable tumors often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Twenty such lesions were studied, and 19 of these produced symptoms and signs. Clinical findings included abdominal pain in 17 (85%), rectal bleeding in 8 (40%), anemia in 7 (35%), intraperitoneal perforation in 6 (30%), and abdominal mass in 4 (20%). Various abdominal x-ray examinations revealed nonspecific abnormalities (ileus, bowel obstruction, abdominal mass) in about half the cases in which they were obtained, but in only one instance was the correct diagnosis of small bowel tumor made preoperatively. Five of 12 patients undergoing resection in hope of cure survived five years. These tumors tend to metastasize by hematogenous dissemination, peritoneal implantation, local invasion, and, uncommonly, lymphogenous spread. Wide small bowel resection with adjacent mesentery is suggested for most lesions. Five year survival following resection approximates 50% in reported series.", "contents": "Leiomyosarcomas of the small intestine. Small bowel leiomyosarcomas are uncommon but potentially curable tumors often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Twenty such lesions were studied, and 19 of these produced symptoms and signs. Clinical findings included abdominal pain in 17 (85%), rectal bleeding in 8 (40%), anemia in 7 (35%), intraperitoneal perforation in 6 (30%), and abdominal mass in 4 (20%). Various abdominal x-ray examinations revealed nonspecific abnormalities (ileus, bowel obstruction, abdominal mass) in about half the cases in which they were obtained, but in only one instance was the correct diagnosis of small bowel tumor made preoperatively. Five of 12 patients undergoing resection in hope of cure survived five years. These tumors tend to metastasize by hematogenous dissemination, peritoneal implantation, local invasion, and, uncommonly, lymphogenous spread. Wide small bowel resection with adjacent mesentery is suggested for most lesions. Five year survival following resection approximates 50% in reported series.", "PMID": 455259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11585", "title": "Lung carcinoma arising in bronchopulmonary sequestration.", "content": "A squamous cell carcinoma arising in intralobar bronchopulmonary sequestration of the right lower lobe is described in a 69-year-old man. One other reported case was found. Other complications of bronchopulmonary sequestration include nonspecific infections and tuberculosis.", "contents": "Lung carcinoma arising in bronchopulmonary sequestration. A squamous cell carcinoma arising in intralobar bronchopulmonary sequestration of the right lower lobe is described in a 69-year-old man. One other reported case was found. Other complications of bronchopulmonary sequestration include nonspecific infections and tuberculosis.", "PMID": 455260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11586", "title": "Primary low grade adenocarcinoma occurring in the inguinal region.", "content": "An unusual case of primary adenocarcinoma occurring in the inguinal region of an elderly woman is reported. It appeared to have arisen from the mesothelium of the canal of Nuck. It recurred and involved one inguinal lymph node three years after the diagnosis and seven years after the initial appearance of the mass. The absence of associated peritoneal tumor distinguishes this case from other reported primary malignant neoplasms of the hernial sac.", "contents": "Primary low grade adenocarcinoma occurring in the inguinal region. An unusual case of primary adenocarcinoma occurring in the inguinal region of an elderly woman is reported. It appeared to have arisen from the mesothelium of the canal of Nuck. It recurred and involved one inguinal lymph node three years after the diagnosis and seven years after the initial appearance of the mass. The absence of associated peritoneal tumor distinguishes this case from other reported primary malignant neoplasms of the hernial sac.", "PMID": 455261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11587", "title": "5-drug adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer.", "content": "A series of 41 patients at the MGH who received 5-drug chemotherapy, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, vincristine and prednisone, (CMF VP) as adjuvant to surgical treatment of operable breast cancer with 4 or more positive axillary nodes is compared to an analogous group of patients treated with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (CMF) reported by Bonadonna et al. in an effort to assess the contribution of the treatment program to disease control. The MGH pattern of disease free survival closely parallels that of Bonadonna. Median disease-free survival among the 24 patients who have not recurred is 27 months; among those who recurred 18 months. The analogous medians for treated patients in the Bonadonna study are 24 months and 16 months, as compared to 27 months and 8 months for his nontreated controls. The treatment program, carried out over a two year period, was well tolerated with excellent patient compliance. There was no significant impact, however, in the disease-free survival of postmenopausal patients. While use of this regimen improved disease-free survival in premenopausal individuals, it is clear that a great deal of room for improvement exists, and newer regimens should be investigated.", "contents": "5-drug adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. A series of 41 patients at the MGH who received 5-drug chemotherapy, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, vincristine and prednisone, (CMF VP) as adjuvant to surgical treatment of operable breast cancer with 4 or more positive axillary nodes is compared to an analogous group of patients treated with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (CMF) reported by Bonadonna et al. in an effort to assess the contribution of the treatment program to disease control. The MGH pattern of disease free survival closely parallels that of Bonadonna. Median disease-free survival among the 24 patients who have not recurred is 27 months; among those who recurred 18 months. The analogous medians for treated patients in the Bonadonna study are 24 months and 16 months, as compared to 27 months and 8 months for his nontreated controls. The treatment program, carried out over a two year period, was well tolerated with excellent patient compliance. There was no significant impact, however, in the disease-free survival of postmenopausal patients. While use of this regimen improved disease-free survival in premenopausal individuals, it is clear that a great deal of room for improvement exists, and newer regimens should be investigated.", "PMID": 455262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11588", "title": "5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM) combination chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer.", "content": "Thirty-six patients with advanced measurable gastric cancer were treated with a new combination chemotherapy program consisting of 5-fluorouracil, Adriamycin and mitomycin-C (FAM). Fifty percent of patients achieved an objective partial response. The median duration of remission was 9.5 months and the median survival for responding patients was 13.5 months, with 2 remaining alive at 14 and 26 months. The median survival for nonresponding patients was 3.0 months and all were dead by 6 months after initiation of therapy. The median survival of all 36 patients treated with FAM was 5.5 months. An analysis of possible prognostic variables including initial performance status, resectability of the primary gastric tumor and histologic differentiation of the neoplasm failed to account for differences in patient response and survival. The FAM regimen was well tolerated, and produced only moderate bone marrow suppression. These results demonstrate that some patients with advanced gastric cancer can be effectively palliated with FAM chemotherapy. Phase III trials are warranted to assess the effect of the FAM regimen on the survival of patients with advanced gastric cancer.", "contents": "5-fluorouracil, adriamycin, and mitomycin-C (FAM) combination chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer. Thirty-six patients with advanced measurable gastric cancer were treated with a new combination chemotherapy program consisting of 5-fluorouracil, Adriamycin and mitomycin-C (FAM). Fifty percent of patients achieved an objective partial response. The median duration of remission was 9.5 months and the median survival for responding patients was 13.5 months, with 2 remaining alive at 14 and 26 months. The median survival for nonresponding patients was 3.0 months and all were dead by 6 months after initiation of therapy. The median survival of all 36 patients treated with FAM was 5.5 months. An analysis of possible prognostic variables including initial performance status, resectability of the primary gastric tumor and histologic differentiation of the neoplasm failed to account for differences in patient response and survival. The FAM regimen was well tolerated, and produced only moderate bone marrow suppression. These results demonstrate that some patients with advanced gastric cancer can be effectively palliated with FAM chemotherapy. Phase III trials are warranted to assess the effect of the FAM regimen on the survival of patients with advanced gastric cancer.", "PMID": 455263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11589", "title": "Chemosensitivity of human bladder cancer cells in long-term culture and clinical responses to the selected anticancer drug.", "content": "In vitro sensitivity of an established cell line from human urinary bladder cancer to various chemotherapeutic agents was determined by 14C-leucine incorporation into the target cells. Of 12 drugs tested, Carboquone, Neocarzinostatin, Actinomycin D, Adriamycin, Mitomycin C and Chromomycin A3 produced intensive cytotoxic effects, while Thio-Tepa, Bleomycin, 5-Fluorouracil and Vincirstine were less cytotoxic, Intravesical instillation of Carboquone, one of the most toxic agents in vitro, resulted in complete or partial tumor remission in 6 of 9 patients with bladder cancer. Prophylactic effects of periodic intravesical Carboquone were also indicated in 7 of 8 patients who had experienced recurring superficial bladder tumors.", "contents": "Chemosensitivity of human bladder cancer cells in long-term culture and clinical responses to the selected anticancer drug. In vitro sensitivity of an established cell line from human urinary bladder cancer to various chemotherapeutic agents was determined by 14C-leucine incorporation into the target cells. Of 12 drugs tested, Carboquone, Neocarzinostatin, Actinomycin D, Adriamycin, Mitomycin C and Chromomycin A3 produced intensive cytotoxic effects, while Thio-Tepa, Bleomycin, 5-Fluorouracil and Vincirstine were less cytotoxic, Intravesical instillation of Carboquone, one of the most toxic agents in vitro, resulted in complete or partial tumor remission in 6 of 9 patients with bladder cancer. Prophylactic effects of periodic intravesical Carboquone were also indicated in 7 of 8 patients who had experienced recurring superficial bladder tumors.", "PMID": 455264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11590", "title": "Desacetyl vinblastine amide sulfate induced ineffective erythropoiesis.", "content": "Ineffective erythropoiesis occurred during desacetyl vinblastine amide sulfate (VDS) therapy of a patient with metastatic Ewing's sarcoma. The peripheral blood was characterized by anisocytosis, poikilocytosis and reticulocytopenia. Bone marrow showed megaloblastic red cell hyperplasia with nuclear fragmentation, binuclearity and abnormal metaphases. Radioiron incorporation into red cells was markedly decreased. Electron microscopy showed red cell surface changes previously called ropalocytosis. Normal erythropoiesis promptly resumed when VDS treatment was withheld. Although less common than leukopenia, red cell abnormalities are part of the spectrum of vinca alkaloid toxicity.", "contents": "Desacetyl vinblastine amide sulfate induced ineffective erythropoiesis. Ineffective erythropoiesis occurred during desacetyl vinblastine amide sulfate (VDS) therapy of a patient with metastatic Ewing's sarcoma. The peripheral blood was characterized by anisocytosis, poikilocytosis and reticulocytopenia. Bone marrow showed megaloblastic red cell hyperplasia with nuclear fragmentation, binuclearity and abnormal metaphases. Radioiron incorporation into red cells was markedly decreased. Electron microscopy showed red cell surface changes previously called ropalocytosis. Normal erythropoiesis promptly resumed when VDS treatment was withheld. Although less common than leukopenia, red cell abnormalities are part of the spectrum of vinca alkaloid toxicity.", "PMID": 455265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11591", "title": "Blurring of vision: a previously undescribed complication of cyclophosphamide therapy.", "content": "Five children with cancer treated with high dose cyclophosphamide experienced blurring of vision. In three patients, the blurring lasted less than one hour and disappeared, abruptly, but in the other two, it was prolonged, lasting three and 14 days with gradual improvement. In all five complete restoration of normal vision occurred. We have not found other reports of this association in the literature.", "contents": "Blurring of vision: a previously undescribed complication of cyclophosphamide therapy. Five children with cancer treated with high dose cyclophosphamide experienced blurring of vision. In three patients, the blurring lasted less than one hour and disappeared, abruptly, but in the other two, it was prolonged, lasting three and 14 days with gradual improvement. In all five complete restoration of normal vision occurred. We have not found other reports of this association in the literature.", "PMID": 455266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11592", "title": "Hodgkin's disease in children: treatment with low dose radiation and MOPP without staging laparotomy: a preliminary report.", "content": "Twenty-seven children with previously untreated Hodgkin's disease (CS I-2, II-13, III-3, IV-9) were given three cycles of MOPP to induce a remission which was consolidated with extended field radiation (2000--3500 rad) and three cycles of MOPP. Surgical staging was discontinued. Twenty-five of 27 children have not relapsed (range 15+--64+ months; median 39+ months); two children have died, one of uncontrolled Hodgkin's disease and one of acute infection while in complete remission. Actuarial 3 and 5 year survival rates and relapse-free rates are 91%. The merits of this treatment approach are discussed.", "contents": "Hodgkin's disease in children: treatment with low dose radiation and MOPP without staging laparotomy: a preliminary report. Twenty-seven children with previously untreated Hodgkin's disease (CS I-2, II-13, III-3, IV-9) were given three cycles of MOPP to induce a remission which was consolidated with extended field radiation (2000--3500 rad) and three cycles of MOPP. Surgical staging was discontinued. Twenty-five of 27 children have not relapsed (range 15+--64+ months; median 39+ months); two children have died, one of uncontrolled Hodgkin's disease and one of acute infection while in complete remission. Actuarial 3 and 5 year survival rates and relapse-free rates are 91%. The merits of this treatment approach are discussed.", "PMID": 455267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11593", "title": "Metastatic chondroblastoma: report of an unusual case treated with radiotherapy.", "content": "Although most chondroblastomas are cured by limited surgical procedures, occasional lesions behave more aggressively and may even metastasize. We report here an unusual case of chondroblastoma, characterized by slow growth, two clinical recurrences following attempts at excision, and pulmonary metastases after a total course of 34 years. This tumor was moderately radiosensitive, as it decreased 50% in size 6 months after a dose of 4000 rads in 4 weeks. Review of the literature suggests that aggressive chondroblastomas may show several types of behavior. Most lesions are unusually aggressive from their inception, displaying local invasion and early recurrence. Other lesions, such as the present case, continue to grow slowly and may eventually metastasize if inadequately resected. This latter type of behavior may exemplify the natural history of untreated chondroblastoma.", "contents": "Metastatic chondroblastoma: report of an unusual case treated with radiotherapy. Although most chondroblastomas are cured by limited surgical procedures, occasional lesions behave more aggressively and may even metastasize. We report here an unusual case of chondroblastoma, characterized by slow growth, two clinical recurrences following attempts at excision, and pulmonary metastases after a total course of 34 years. This tumor was moderately radiosensitive, as it decreased 50% in size 6 months after a dose of 4000 rads in 4 weeks. Review of the literature suggests that aggressive chondroblastomas may show several types of behavior. Most lesions are unusually aggressive from their inception, displaying local invasion and early recurrence. Other lesions, such as the present case, continue to grow slowly and may eventually metastasize if inadequately resected. This latter type of behavior may exemplify the natural history of untreated chondroblastoma.", "PMID": 455268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11594", "title": "Rapid determination of methylated purines in DNA treated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea using high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "A method for determining methylated purine bases in [3H]N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MeNOUr) treated DNA is described. The method combines reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of methylated DNA after hydrolysis in dilute acid with the determination of radioactivity in the fractionated eluates. The peaks of the respective methylated purines were indentified by the use of internal standards. The method allows quantitative separation of 3-methyl-adenine (m3Ade), 7-methyl-adenine (m7Ade), 3-methyl-guanine (m3Gua), 7-methyl-guanine (m7Gua) and O6-methyl-guanine (m6Gua) within 20 min. Thus the total time required for determination of methylated purines is limited only by radioactivity measurements in the respective fractions.", "contents": "Rapid determination of methylated purines in DNA treated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea using high-performance liquid chromatography. A method for determining methylated purine bases in [3H]N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MeNOUr) treated DNA is described. The method combines reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of methylated DNA after hydrolysis in dilute acid with the determination of radioactivity in the fractionated eluates. The peaks of the respective methylated purines were indentified by the use of internal standards. The method allows quantitative separation of 3-methyl-adenine (m3Ade), 7-methyl-adenine (m7Ade), 3-methyl-guanine (m3Gua), 7-methyl-guanine (m7Gua) and O6-methyl-guanine (m6Gua) within 20 min. Thus the total time required for determination of methylated purines is limited only by radioactivity measurements in the respective fractions.", "PMID": 455269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11595", "title": "Photodynamic inactivation of cancer cells in vitro. Effect of irradiation temperature and dose fractionation.", "content": "Human cancer cells in vitro (NHIK 3025), derived from a carcinoma in situ are inactivated when exposed to visible light in the presence of hematoporphyrin. Irradiation at 4 degrees C results in much more efficient inactivation than irradiation at 37 degrees C. Furthermore, a given total light dose is more efficient when it is fractionated than when it is given in a single exposire. These findings may be taken advantage of in future photochemotherapy of cancer.", "contents": "Photodynamic inactivation of cancer cells in vitro. Effect of irradiation temperature and dose fractionation. Human cancer cells in vitro (NHIK 3025), derived from a carcinoma in situ are inactivated when exposed to visible light in the presence of hematoporphyrin. Irradiation at 4 degrees C results in much more efficient inactivation than irradiation at 37 degrees C. Furthermore, a given total light dose is more efficient when it is fractionated than when it is given in a single exposire. These findings may be taken advantage of in future photochemotherapy of cancer.", "PMID": 455270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11596", "title": "Suramin enhancement of the chemotherapeutic actions of cyclophosphamide or adriamycin of intramuscularly-implanted Ehrlich carcinoma.", "content": "The chemotherapeutic action of cyclophosphamide or adriamycin monotherapy on hyperdiploid Ehrlich carcinoma was compared with that of sequential combinations of suramin and cyclophosphamide and suramin and adriamycin. The chemotherapeutic action of the suramin-cyclophosphamide combination or of the adriamycin-surmin combination was significantly enhanced when the combination partners were applied at definite intervals.", "contents": "Suramin enhancement of the chemotherapeutic actions of cyclophosphamide or adriamycin of intramuscularly-implanted Ehrlich carcinoma. The chemotherapeutic action of cyclophosphamide or adriamycin monotherapy on hyperdiploid Ehrlich carcinoma was compared with that of sequential combinations of suramin and cyclophosphamide and suramin and adriamycin. The chemotherapeutic action of the suramin-cyclophosphamide combination or of the adriamycin-surmin combination was significantly enhanced when the combination partners were applied at definite intervals.", "PMID": 455271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11597", "title": "Effect of L-alpha-amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid on melphalan therapy of the L1210 murine leukemia.", "content": "About half the mice administered a lethal inoculum of L1210 leukemia become 60-day survivors when treated with an appropriate dose of melphalan. Leucine completely abolishes this long-term survival by interfering with melphalan uptake into the tumor cells. L-alpha-Amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid, the lower homolog of arginine, promotes melphalan uptake in vitro only in the presence of leucine. When administered to mice with melphalan and a dose of leucine which negates the 50% cure rate of melphalan, it reduces the therapeutic interference of leucine. However, L-alpha-Amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid alone does not improve melphalan therapy, suggesting that endogenous leucine can play only a minor role in interference with therapy of the L1210 leukemia.", "contents": "Effect of L-alpha-amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid on melphalan therapy of the L1210 murine leukemia. About half the mice administered a lethal inoculum of L1210 leukemia become 60-day survivors when treated with an appropriate dose of melphalan. Leucine completely abolishes this long-term survival by interfering with melphalan uptake into the tumor cells. L-alpha-Amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid, the lower homolog of arginine, promotes melphalan uptake in vitro only in the presence of leucine. When administered to mice with melphalan and a dose of leucine which negates the 50% cure rate of melphalan, it reduces the therapeutic interference of leucine. However, L-alpha-Amino-gamma-guanidinobutyric acid alone does not improve melphalan therapy, suggesting that endogenous leucine can play only a minor role in interference with therapy of the L1210 leukemia.", "PMID": 455272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11598", "title": "Lack of oestradiol-DNA binding in mouse embryo cell cultures or following rat-liver microsomal metabolism.", "content": "Oestradiol-17beta was compared to benzo[a]pyrene (BP) for its ability to bind to the DNA of mouse embryo cells in culture or to DNA added to a rat liver microsomal incubation mixture. No significant binding was found in embryo cells (at least 100-fold less than for BP). Microsomal incubation resulted in apparent oestradiol binding to a reisolated DNA-containing complex, but most of this was lost when the DNA was freed of RNA and protein.", "contents": "Lack of oestradiol-DNA binding in mouse embryo cell cultures or following rat-liver microsomal metabolism. Oestradiol-17beta was compared to benzo[a]pyrene (BP) for its ability to bind to the DNA of mouse embryo cells in culture or to DNA added to a rat liver microsomal incubation mixture. No significant binding was found in embryo cells (at least 100-fold less than for BP). Microsomal incubation resulted in apparent oestradiol binding to a reisolated DNA-containing complex, but most of this was lost when the DNA was freed of RNA and protein.", "PMID": 455273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11599", "title": "Lymphocyte fluorescent profiles (LFP): a possible screening technique in neoplasia.", "content": "A technique involving fluorescent protein staining and microfluorometry has been developed for measuring the lymphocyte fluorescent profile (LFP) of peripheral blood lymphocytes. In contrast to normal humans who display a regular bell-shaped curve, the profile from patients with cancer is irregular, showing a bimodal distribution of fluorescence, with a significant population of cells fluorescing at a higher relative intensity. It is suggested that this elevation in protein concentration is due to an immune response to the presence of a neoplasm, and thus this technique may prove to be a useful indicator of malignancy.", "contents": "Lymphocyte fluorescent profiles (LFP): a possible screening technique in neoplasia. A technique involving fluorescent protein staining and microfluorometry has been developed for measuring the lymphocyte fluorescent profile (LFP) of peripheral blood lymphocytes. In contrast to normal humans who display a regular bell-shaped curve, the profile from patients with cancer is irregular, showing a bimodal distribution of fluorescence, with a significant population of cells fluorescing at a higher relative intensity. It is suggested that this elevation in protein concentration is due to an immune response to the presence of a neoplasm, and thus this technique may prove to be a useful indicator of malignancy.", "PMID": 455274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11600", "title": "Intranuclear rodlets in undifferentiated carcinomas of salivary glands in strain A mice in a study involving a tobacco specific nitrosamine, N-nitrosonornicotine.", "content": "Undifferentiated carcinomas of the salivary glands were found in 2 of 44 (4.5%) strain A mice injected intraperitoneally with a tobacco specific nitrosamine, N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN). The presence of intranuclear rodlets (INR) in the salivary carcinomas provided the first demonstration of such structures in a non-neuronal tumor in mice. Two types of rodlets were exhibited; one was composed of fibrillar filaments arranged in bundles, and the other was much thicker, branching in form. These INR appeared to be closely associated with nuclear chromatin or nucleoli.", "contents": "Intranuclear rodlets in undifferentiated carcinomas of salivary glands in strain A mice in a study involving a tobacco specific nitrosamine, N-nitrosonornicotine. Undifferentiated carcinomas of the salivary glands were found in 2 of 44 (4.5%) strain A mice injected intraperitoneally with a tobacco specific nitrosamine, N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN). The presence of intranuclear rodlets (INR) in the salivary carcinomas provided the first demonstration of such structures in a non-neuronal tumor in mice. Two types of rodlets were exhibited; one was composed of fibrillar filaments arranged in bundles, and the other was much thicker, branching in form. These INR appeared to be closely associated with nuclear chromatin or nucleoli.", "PMID": 455275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11601", "title": "Interferon and spontaneous cytotoxicity in man. III. Effect of interferon on lymphocytes and target cells in vitro.", "content": "Human leukocyte interferon (IF) was tested for its capacity to modify the spontaneous cytotoxicity of human peripheral lymphocytes for allogeneic target cells in vitro. Pretreatment of lymphocytes with IF augmented their cytotoxicity whereas pretreatment of the target cells did not increase but possibly decreased their sensitivity to the spontaneous cytotoxicity of lymphocytes.", "contents": "Interferon and spontaneous cytotoxicity in man. III. Effect of interferon on lymphocytes and target cells in vitro. Human leukocyte interferon (IF) was tested for its capacity to modify the spontaneous cytotoxicity of human peripheral lymphocytes for allogeneic target cells in vitro. Pretreatment of lymphocytes with IF augmented their cytotoxicity whereas pretreatment of the target cells did not increase but possibly decreased their sensitivity to the spontaneous cytotoxicity of lymphocytes.", "PMID": 455276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11602", "title": "Forssman-like antibody levels in sera of patients with lung cancer.", "content": "Sera of normal individuals or patients with lung cancer were assayed for Forssman-like antibody by a quantitative and specific method using ethylenediaminetetraacetate-containing buffer to inactivate complement in the test serum. It was shown that although Forssman-like antibody levels were distributed widely, (a) the levels of young (20 to 45 years of age) normal subjects of Blood Groups A and AB were lower than those of Blood Groups O and B, (b) the levels of old (60 to 80 years of age) normal subjects were lower than those of young normal subjects of Blood Groups O and B, and (c) the levels of old lung cancer patients were lower when compared to age-matched normal individuals of their blood group.", "contents": "Forssman-like antibody levels in sera of patients with lung cancer. Sera of normal individuals or patients with lung cancer were assayed for Forssman-like antibody by a quantitative and specific method using ethylenediaminetetraacetate-containing buffer to inactivate complement in the test serum. It was shown that although Forssman-like antibody levels were distributed widely, (a) the levels of young (20 to 45 years of age) normal subjects of Blood Groups A and AB were lower than those of Blood Groups O and B, (b) the levels of old (60 to 80 years of age) normal subjects were lower than those of young normal subjects of Blood Groups O and B, and (c) the levels of old lung cancer patients were lower when compared to age-matched normal individuals of their blood group.", "PMID": 455277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11603", "title": "Formation of methotrexate polyglutamates in rat hepatocytes.", "content": "Polyglutamate derivatives of [3H]methotrexate (MTX) were detected in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes in suspension within 15 min after exposure to the folate analog. The rate of polyglutamate synthesis remained constant for at least one hr, and the polyglutamate derivatives accounted for an increasing proportion of the intracellular radiolabel with time. After initial exposure to 1 micron [3H]MTX, polyglutamate derivatives of Mtx continued to be synthesized even after the extracellular [3H]-MTX concentration had been reduced 20-fold. Prolonged exposure of hepatocytes in primary culture to 1 micron [3H]MTX resulted in the formation of longer-chain polyglutamate derivatives of MTX. The present studies demonstrate another important biosynthetic capacity of the freshly isolated hepatocyte and suggest the usefulness of this system for studying the mechanism of, and controlling factors in, the synthesis of polyglutamate derivatives of MTX. The ramifications of the formation of MTX polyglutamates on drug cytotoxicity in general and hepatotoxicity in particular are considered.", "contents": "Formation of methotrexate polyglutamates in rat hepatocytes. Polyglutamate derivatives of [3H]methotrexate (MTX) were detected in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes in suspension within 15 min after exposure to the folate analog. The rate of polyglutamate synthesis remained constant for at least one hr, and the polyglutamate derivatives accounted for an increasing proportion of the intracellular radiolabel with time. After initial exposure to 1 micron [3H]MTX, polyglutamate derivatives of Mtx continued to be synthesized even after the extracellular [3H]-MTX concentration had been reduced 20-fold. Prolonged exposure of hepatocytes in primary culture to 1 micron [3H]MTX resulted in the formation of longer-chain polyglutamate derivatives of MTX. The present studies demonstrate another important biosynthetic capacity of the freshly isolated hepatocyte and suggest the usefulness of this system for studying the mechanism of, and controlling factors in, the synthesis of polyglutamate derivatives of MTX. The ramifications of the formation of MTX polyglutamates on drug cytotoxicity in general and hepatotoxicity in particular are considered.", "PMID": 455278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11604", "title": "Regression of human tumors established in nude mice after continuous infusion of thymidine.", "content": "A system for the continuous infusion of thymidine solutions in nude mice has been developed. High doses (0.5 to 1.0 ml/mouse/hr) of a 28.5-mg/ml thymidine solution (444 to 888 mg/kg/hr) can be administered continuously for 96 to 140 hr. The preliminary results indicate that it is possible to induce total tumor regression of human heterotransplants established in nude mice of one human teratocarcinoma, five different human melanomas, and one human lung carcinoma and to inhibit to a large degree the growth of two human breast carcinomas by multiple (two to eight) cycles of infusion. The life span of the thymidine-treated animals has been significantly increased compared to that of control animals.", "contents": "Regression of human tumors established in nude mice after continuous infusion of thymidine. A system for the continuous infusion of thymidine solutions in nude mice has been developed. High doses (0.5 to 1.0 ml/mouse/hr) of a 28.5-mg/ml thymidine solution (444 to 888 mg/kg/hr) can be administered continuously for 96 to 140 hr. The preliminary results indicate that it is possible to induce total tumor regression of human heterotransplants established in nude mice of one human teratocarcinoma, five different human melanomas, and one human lung carcinoma and to inhibit to a large degree the growth of two human breast carcinomas by multiple (two to eight) cycles of infusion. The life span of the thymidine-treated animals has been significantly increased compared to that of control animals.", "PMID": 455279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11605", "title": "Modification by adenosine of the effect of adriamycin on myocardial cells in culture.", "content": "The cardiotoxic effects of Adriamycin (ADM) were studied utilizing mammalian myocardial cells in culture as a model system. ADM inhibited cell growth and the rhythmic contractions characteristic of these cells. Because a possible involvement of energy metabolism in the action of ADM was suggested previously, the adenylate energy charge and phosphorylcreatine mol fraction were determined in the ADM-treated cells. The adenylate energy charge was found to be significantly decreased, while the phosphorylcreatine mol fraction was not. Such disparity suggests an inhibition of creatine phosphokinase. The addition of 1 mM adenosine to the myocardial cell cultures markedly increased the adenosine triphosphate concentration but not the adenylate charge. In the ADM-treated cells, the addition of adenosine increased both the adenosine triphosphate concentration and the adenylate charge, and, concomitant with this increase, the functional integrity of the cells in terms of percentage of beating cells and rate of contractions was maintained.", "contents": "Modification by adenosine of the effect of adriamycin on myocardial cells in culture. The cardiotoxic effects of Adriamycin (ADM) were studied utilizing mammalian myocardial cells in culture as a model system. ADM inhibited cell growth and the rhythmic contractions characteristic of these cells. Because a possible involvement of energy metabolism in the action of ADM was suggested previously, the adenylate energy charge and phosphorylcreatine mol fraction were determined in the ADM-treated cells. The adenylate energy charge was found to be significantly decreased, while the phosphorylcreatine mol fraction was not. Such disparity suggests an inhibition of creatine phosphokinase. The addition of 1 mM adenosine to the myocardial cell cultures markedly increased the adenosine triphosphate concentration but not the adenylate charge. In the ADM-treated cells, the addition of adenosine increased both the adenosine triphosphate concentration and the adenylate charge, and, concomitant with this increase, the functional integrity of the cells in terms of percentage of beating cells and rate of contractions was maintained.", "PMID": 455280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11606", "title": "Enhancement of radioresponse of a mouse mammary carcinoma to combined treatments with hyperthermia and radiosensitizer misonidazole.", "content": "The regrowth delay of a transplanted syngeneic mouse mammary carcinoma designated MT2 was used to estimate the effects of three-fold combination treatments: X-irradiation; hyperthermia and radiosensitizer; and misonidazole (Ro-07-0582). The experiment entailed five groups of experimental mice: untreated control; X-rays alone; X-rays plus hyperthermia (42--43 degrees); X-rays plus misonidazole; and X-rays plus hyperthermia plus misonidazole. X-Ray treatments consisted of 4000 rads administered locally to the tumors in two equal fractions at a 48-hr interval. Misonidazole (0.67 mg per g body weight) was injected i.p. 30 min before exposure to X-irradiation. Hyperthermia was administered 10 min prior to and for 17 min during irradiation. The regrowth delay factor of 3.9 was obtained by administering combined treatments of the three agents (X-rays plus hyperthermia plus misonidazole). The enhancing effect on a syngeneic mouse mammary adenocarcinoma by the modality of treatment herein described lends support to the usefulness of combining X-rays with other agents in the treatment of neoplasms.", "contents": "Enhancement of radioresponse of a mouse mammary carcinoma to combined treatments with hyperthermia and radiosensitizer misonidazole. The regrowth delay of a transplanted syngeneic mouse mammary carcinoma designated MT2 was used to estimate the effects of three-fold combination treatments: X-irradiation; hyperthermia and radiosensitizer; and misonidazole (Ro-07-0582). The experiment entailed five groups of experimental mice: untreated control; X-rays alone; X-rays plus hyperthermia (42--43 degrees); X-rays plus misonidazole; and X-rays plus hyperthermia plus misonidazole. X-Ray treatments consisted of 4000 rads administered locally to the tumors in two equal fractions at a 48-hr interval. Misonidazole (0.67 mg per g body weight) was injected i.p. 30 min before exposure to X-irradiation. Hyperthermia was administered 10 min prior to and for 17 min during irradiation. The regrowth delay factor of 3.9 was obtained by administering combined treatments of the three agents (X-rays plus hyperthermia plus misonidazole). The enhancing effect on a syngeneic mouse mammary adenocarcinoma by the modality of treatment herein described lends support to the usefulness of combining X-rays with other agents in the treatment of neoplasms.", "PMID": 455281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11607", "title": "Chromosomal DNA cytophotometry in 20q- nonspecific myeloid disorders.", "content": "DNA cytophotometry was used to quantify the chromosomal alterations in the bone marrow and blood of three patients with nonspecific myeloid disorders. All patients possessed a population of cells with a morphologically abnormal chromosome 20, del(20)(qll). In two of the patients, the abnormal chromosome 20 showed nearly identical DNA measurements with a net loss of 0.37% of the total autosomal DNA in one patient and 0.38% in the second. The third patient had a net loss of only 0.25% of the autosomal DNA. Analysis of the DNA content of the long arm and short arm of the abnormal No. 20 indicated that all three cases had chromosomal material added to the short arm (0.10 to 0.14% of the autosomal DNA). About 0.50% of the autosomal DNA was deleted from the long arm in two of the patients; only 0.35% of the autosomal DNA was deleted from the long arm in the third case. Within the limit of resolution, there is no evidence that the material lost has been translocated intact to another chromosome. The origin of the 20q- chromosome as the result of an incomplete pericentric inversion is suggested.", "contents": "Chromosomal DNA cytophotometry in 20q- nonspecific myeloid disorders. DNA cytophotometry was used to quantify the chromosomal alterations in the bone marrow and blood of three patients with nonspecific myeloid disorders. All patients possessed a population of cells with a morphologically abnormal chromosome 20, del(20)(qll). In two of the patients, the abnormal chromosome 20 showed nearly identical DNA measurements with a net loss of 0.37% of the total autosomal DNA in one patient and 0.38% in the second. The third patient had a net loss of only 0.25% of the autosomal DNA. Analysis of the DNA content of the long arm and short arm of the abnormal No. 20 indicated that all three cases had chromosomal material added to the short arm (0.10 to 0.14% of the autosomal DNA). About 0.50% of the autosomal DNA was deleted from the long arm in two of the patients; only 0.35% of the autosomal DNA was deleted from the long arm in the third case. Within the limit of resolution, there is no evidence that the material lost has been translocated intact to another chromosome. The origin of the 20q- chromosome as the result of an incomplete pericentric inversion is suggested.", "PMID": 455284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11608", "title": "Occurrence of a low-molecular-weight calcium-binding protein in neoplastic liver.", "content": "A calcium-binding protein was detected in the cytosol of Morris hepatomas 7288, 5123tc (h), 5123tc, and 7795. This protein could not be detected in adult Buffalo liver, 24-hr regenerating liver, or 18- to 20-day-old fetal liver. The amount of this protein present was not clearly related to the growth rate of the tumors studied, although there was more in a faster growing tumor (5123tc) than in the slowest (7795). The protein from the four tumors was apparently identical. The calcium-binding protein was heat stable and was not the calcium-dependent regulator of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. It had an apparent molecular weight of less than 12,500.", "contents": "Occurrence of a low-molecular-weight calcium-binding protein in neoplastic liver. A calcium-binding protein was detected in the cytosol of Morris hepatomas 7288, 5123tc (h), 5123tc, and 7795. This protein could not be detected in adult Buffalo liver, 24-hr regenerating liver, or 18- to 20-day-old fetal liver. The amount of this protein present was not clearly related to the growth rate of the tumors studied, although there was more in a faster growing tumor (5123tc) than in the slowest (7795). The protein from the four tumors was apparently identical. The calcium-binding protein was heat stable and was not the calcium-dependent regulator of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. It had an apparent molecular weight of less than 12,500.", "PMID": 455285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11609", "title": "Effects of adriamycin and cyclophosphamide treatment on induction of macrophage cytotoxic function in mice.", "content": "The effects of i.p. and s.c. Adriamycin and cyclophosphamide treatment of BALB/c x DBA/2F1 mice were studied alone and in combination with immunotherapeutic agents, pyran copolymer and Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin, on macrophage cytotoxic ability, As assessed by direct viable cell counts of MBL-2 leukemia cells, both Adriamycin and cyclophosphamide produced growth-inhibitory macrophages. This function after s.c. cytostatic treatment peaked at Day 1 and decreased progressively, attaining normal control values by Day 6. When adjuvants, such as pyran and B. Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin, were administered i.p. simultaneously with s.c. Adriamycin or cyclophosphamide, adjuvant-induced cytotoxic function was not markedly affected. A better knowledge of the influence of cytostatic agents alone or combined with immunoadjuvants on macrophage cytotoxic ability may be useful in designing more effective chemoimmunotherapy protocols.", "contents": "Effects of adriamycin and cyclophosphamide treatment on induction of macrophage cytotoxic function in mice. The effects of i.p. and s.c. Adriamycin and cyclophosphamide treatment of BALB/c x DBA/2F1 mice were studied alone and in combination with immunotherapeutic agents, pyran copolymer and Bacillus Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin, on macrophage cytotoxic ability, As assessed by direct viable cell counts of MBL-2 leukemia cells, both Adriamycin and cyclophosphamide produced growth-inhibitory macrophages. This function after s.c. cytostatic treatment peaked at Day 1 and decreased progressively, attaining normal control values by Day 6. When adjuvants, such as pyran and B. Calmette-Gu\u00e9rin, were administered i.p. simultaneously with s.c. Adriamycin or cyclophosphamide, adjuvant-induced cytotoxic function was not markedly affected. A better knowledge of the influence of cytostatic agents alone or combined with immunoadjuvants on macrophage cytotoxic ability may be useful in designing more effective chemoimmunotherapy protocols.", "PMID": 455286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11610", "title": "Inhibition of N-n-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine-induced urinary bladder cancer in rats by administration of disulfiram in the diet.", "content": "The objective of this study was to determine if disulfiram would influence the induction of urinary bladder cancer in rats given N-n-butyl-N(4-hydroxybuty)nitrosamine (BHBN). Adult male Wistar rats were divided into: Group 1, control diet, 30 rats; Group 2, control diet plus 0.025% BHBN in the drinking water, 60 rats; Group 3, control diet containing 0.5% disulfiram, 30 rats; and Group 4, control diet containing 0.5% disulfiram plus 0.025% BHBN in the drinking water, 60 rats. The animals were kept on these regimens for 15 weeks and then were transferred to and maintained on control diet. The average total intake of BHBN was 1.21 g/rat for Group 2 and 1.23 g/rat for Group 4. The cumulative incidences of bladder cancer at 25 weeks after initial exposure to BHBN were: Group 1, 0 of 9; Group 2, 27 of 27; Group 3, 0 of 9; and Group 4, 0 of 27. At termination of the experiment (32 to 42 weeks), the final bladder cancer incidences were: Group 1, 0 of 30 (0%); Group 2, 57 of 57 ()00%); Group 3, 0 of 24 (0%); and Group 4, 7 of 55 (13%). Except for a carcinoma of the renal pelvis in one rat in Group 2 and the bladder tumors in Groups 2 and 4, tumors were not detected in other organs of any of these rats. It was concluded that disulfiram significantly inhibited the induction of bladder cancer in rats exposed to BHBN. The mechanism of action of disulfiram in this process is under investigation.", "contents": "Inhibition of N-n-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine-induced urinary bladder cancer in rats by administration of disulfiram in the diet. The objective of this study was to determine if disulfiram would influence the induction of urinary bladder cancer in rats given N-n-butyl-N(4-hydroxybuty)nitrosamine (BHBN). Adult male Wistar rats were divided into: Group 1, control diet, 30 rats; Group 2, control diet plus 0.025% BHBN in the drinking water, 60 rats; Group 3, control diet containing 0.5% disulfiram, 30 rats; and Group 4, control diet containing 0.5% disulfiram plus 0.025% BHBN in the drinking water, 60 rats. The animals were kept on these regimens for 15 weeks and then were transferred to and maintained on control diet. The average total intake of BHBN was 1.21 g/rat for Group 2 and 1.23 g/rat for Group 4. The cumulative incidences of bladder cancer at 25 weeks after initial exposure to BHBN were: Group 1, 0 of 9; Group 2, 27 of 27; Group 3, 0 of 9; and Group 4, 0 of 27. At termination of the experiment (32 to 42 weeks), the final bladder cancer incidences were: Group 1, 0 of 30 (0%); Group 2, 57 of 57 ()00%); Group 3, 0 of 24 (0%); and Group 4, 7 of 55 (13%). Except for a carcinoma of the renal pelvis in one rat in Group 2 and the bladder tumors in Groups 2 and 4, tumors were not detected in other organs of any of these rats. It was concluded that disulfiram significantly inhibited the induction of bladder cancer in rats exposed to BHBN. The mechanism of action of disulfiram in this process is under investigation.", "PMID": 455288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11611", "title": "Immunological block to synthetic alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone: melanocyte interaction by antibodies isolated from cell-column immunoadsorbents.", "content": "Antibodies to formalin-fixed, syngeneic melanoma cells were prepared in mice, purified by immunoaffinity chromatography, and tested for binding activity to viable melanoma cells. The radiolabeled antibodies detected congruent to 9 X 10(6) melanoma antigenic sites/cell. The calculated average association constant (Ka) for the antibody population was 7 to 10 X 10(7) M-1. The antibody was shown to block the binding of melanocyte-stimulating hormone in competitive cell surface binding studies. Results are discussed conceptually in terms of the potentially important role that the humoral immune response may play in the phenomenon of tumor progression.", "contents": "Immunological block to synthetic alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone: melanocyte interaction by antibodies isolated from cell-column immunoadsorbents. Antibodies to formalin-fixed, syngeneic melanoma cells were prepared in mice, purified by immunoaffinity chromatography, and tested for binding activity to viable melanoma cells. The radiolabeled antibodies detected congruent to 9 X 10(6) melanoma antigenic sites/cell. The calculated average association constant (Ka) for the antibody population was 7 to 10 X 10(7) M-1. The antibody was shown to block the binding of melanocyte-stimulating hormone in competitive cell surface binding studies. Results are discussed conceptually in terms of the potentially important role that the humoral immune response may play in the phenomenon of tumor progression.", "PMID": 455290} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11612", "title": "Synthesis of the glucuronic acid conjugate of methylazoxymethanol.", "content": "The glucuronic acid conjugate of methylazoxymethanol was synthesized by oxidizing the primary alcohol of the glucose moiety of cycasin (methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glycopyranoside) to a carboxylic acid. The oxidation was carried out by bubbling oxygen gas through a cycasin solution in the presence of a platinum-on-carbon catalyst. A band at 1715 cm-1, not present in the cycasin infrared spectrum, appeared in the spectrum of the oxidized cycasin product, establishing the presence of a carboxylic acid group. The oxidation product is methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glucosiduronic acid because, when hydrolyzed with Escherichia coli beta-glucuronidase, it produced methylazoxymethanol and glucuronic acid and also indicated retention of the beta-linkage of cycasin. Varying quantities of the synthesized methylazoxymethanol-glucosiduronic acid, injected into Wistar rats of both sexes and of varying weights, were not acutely toxic. The compound was mutagenic to Salmonella typhimurium when preincubated with E. coli beta-glucuronidase, but not when preincubated with bovine liver glucuronidase.", "contents": "Synthesis of the glucuronic acid conjugate of methylazoxymethanol. The glucuronic acid conjugate of methylazoxymethanol was synthesized by oxidizing the primary alcohol of the glucose moiety of cycasin (methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glycopyranoside) to a carboxylic acid. The oxidation was carried out by bubbling oxygen gas through a cycasin solution in the presence of a platinum-on-carbon catalyst. A band at 1715 cm-1, not present in the cycasin infrared spectrum, appeared in the spectrum of the oxidized cycasin product, establishing the presence of a carboxylic acid group. The oxidation product is methylazoxymethanol-beta-D-glucosiduronic acid because, when hydrolyzed with Escherichia coli beta-glucuronidase, it produced methylazoxymethanol and glucuronic acid and also indicated retention of the beta-linkage of cycasin. Varying quantities of the synthesized methylazoxymethanol-glucosiduronic acid, injected into Wistar rats of both sexes and of varying weights, were not acutely toxic. The compound was mutagenic to Salmonella typhimurium when preincubated with E. coli beta-glucuronidase, but not when preincubated with bovine liver glucuronidase.", "PMID": 455292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11613", "title": "Effect of delay in administration of 13-cis-retinoic acid on the inhibition of urinary bladder carcinogenesis in the rat.", "content": "The effect of a delay in starting 13-cis-retinoic acid treatment on the inhibition of urinary bladder carcinoma induced by N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine was studied in male Fischer 344 rats. Animals received a total p.o. dose of either 1200, 1800 or 2400 mg N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine over a period of six weeks. At either one, five, and nine weeks after the last N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine intubation, animals were started on a diet supplemented with 13-cis-retinoic acid (240 mg/kg of laboratory chow) or continued on laboratory chow. Animals were killed at one year after the first carcinogen intubation for histological evaluation of the bladder. Feeding of 13-cis-retinoic acid reduced the incidence, average number, and severity of transitional cell carcinomas as well as hyperplasia and cellular atypia. Furthermore, even a nine-week delay in starting the retinoid feeding did not diminish the ability of 13-cis-retinoic acid to inhibit bladder carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Effect of delay in administration of 13-cis-retinoic acid on the inhibition of urinary bladder carcinogenesis in the rat. The effect of a delay in starting 13-cis-retinoic acid treatment on the inhibition of urinary bladder carcinoma induced by N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine was studied in male Fischer 344 rats. Animals received a total p.o. dose of either 1200, 1800 or 2400 mg N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine over a period of six weeks. At either one, five, and nine weeks after the last N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine intubation, animals were started on a diet supplemented with 13-cis-retinoic acid (240 mg/kg of laboratory chow) or continued on laboratory chow. Animals were killed at one year after the first carcinogen intubation for histological evaluation of the bladder. Feeding of 13-cis-retinoic acid reduced the incidence, average number, and severity of transitional cell carcinomas as well as hyperplasia and cellular atypia. Furthermore, even a nine-week delay in starting the retinoid feeding did not diminish the ability of 13-cis-retinoic acid to inhibit bladder carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 455298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11614", "title": "Cell cycle phase-specific cytotoxicity of the antitumor agent maytansine.", "content": "The objective of this investigation was to study the effects of maytansine on the cell cycle kinetics of HeLa cells. The results of this study indicate that maytansine is a very potent mitotic inhibitor and that it has no effect on macromolecular synthesis. Maytansine-induced cytotoxicity was dependent upon the position of the cell in the cell cycle. Mitotic and G2 cells are most sensitive to this agent, while G1 phase cells are the most resistant, with S-phase cells being intermediate. Small (0.82 X 10(-8) M) fractionated doses given at an interval of 8 hr have been found to be more cytotoxic than was a large (1.63 X 10(-8) M) single dose. In evaluating the drug combinations, we observed that the schedule in which 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine treatment was followed by maytansine treatment exhibited greater cell kill than the reverse sequence. No schedule-dependent effects were observed when maytansine was tried in combination with Adriamycin.", "contents": "Cell cycle phase-specific cytotoxicity of the antitumor agent maytansine. The objective of this investigation was to study the effects of maytansine on the cell cycle kinetics of HeLa cells. The results of this study indicate that maytansine is a very potent mitotic inhibitor and that it has no effect on macromolecular synthesis. Maytansine-induced cytotoxicity was dependent upon the position of the cell in the cell cycle. Mitotic and G2 cells are most sensitive to this agent, while G1 phase cells are the most resistant, with S-phase cells being intermediate. Small (0.82 X 10(-8) M) fractionated doses given at an interval of 8 hr have been found to be more cytotoxic than was a large (1.63 X 10(-8) M) single dose. In evaluating the drug combinations, we observed that the schedule in which 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine treatment was followed by maytansine treatment exhibited greater cell kill than the reverse sequence. No schedule-dependent effects were observed when maytansine was tried in combination with Adriamycin.", "PMID": 455300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11615", "title": "Toxicity of metabolic benzo(a)pyrenediones to cultured cells and the dependence upon molecular oxygen.", "content": "The three quinone metabolites of carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene, the isomeric benzo(a)pyrenediones (6, 12; 1,6; 3,6), are toxic to cultured hamster cells at low concentrations. The reduction in cell number, observed after treatment with these metabolites, is the result of both direct cell killing and the inhibition of growth, since DNA synthesis is inhibited very early after treatment with benzo(a)pyrene 1,6-dione when little cell death has occurred. The rate of RNA synthesis was also inhibited by treatment of cells with benzo(a)pyrene 3,6-dione. These actions of the benzo(a)pyrenediones toward hamster cells can be eliminated or substantially reduced by the removal of oxygen from the growth medium and atmosphere in which the cells are incubated. In contrast, anaerobic conditions do not reduce the cytotoxicity observed with the alkylating agent ethyl methanesulfonate. These results support the hypothesis that benzo(a)pyrenediones, and other biologically active quinones, owe their activity to oxidation-reduction cycles involving quinone, hydroquinone, and molecular oxygen; the reactive reduced oxygen radicals and semiquinone radical formed during these cycles may be responsible for the observed cellular injury and inhibition of cellular processes.", "contents": "Toxicity of metabolic benzo(a)pyrenediones to cultured cells and the dependence upon molecular oxygen. The three quinone metabolites of carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene, the isomeric benzo(a)pyrenediones (6, 12; 1,6; 3,6), are toxic to cultured hamster cells at low concentrations. The reduction in cell number, observed after treatment with these metabolites, is the result of both direct cell killing and the inhibition of growth, since DNA synthesis is inhibited very early after treatment with benzo(a)pyrene 1,6-dione when little cell death has occurred. The rate of RNA synthesis was also inhibited by treatment of cells with benzo(a)pyrene 3,6-dione. These actions of the benzo(a)pyrenediones toward hamster cells can be eliminated or substantially reduced by the removal of oxygen from the growth medium and atmosphere in which the cells are incubated. In contrast, anaerobic conditions do not reduce the cytotoxicity observed with the alkylating agent ethyl methanesulfonate. These results support the hypothesis that benzo(a)pyrenediones, and other biologically active quinones, owe their activity to oxidation-reduction cycles involving quinone, hydroquinone, and molecular oxygen; the reactive reduced oxygen radicals and semiquinone radical formed during these cycles may be responsible for the observed cellular injury and inhibition of cellular processes.", "PMID": 455303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11616", "title": "Cytotoxicity of an 125I-labeled DNA-binding compound that induces double-stranded DNA breaks.", "content": "[125I]Iodorivanol (6,9-diamino-2-ethoxy-5-[125]iodoacridine) has been prepared by direct iodination of rivanol (6.9-diamino-2-ethoxyacridine). In vitro binding of [125I]iodorivanol to PM2 DNA resulted in induction of double-stranded DNA breaks following decay of the 125I atom, presumably in the same way as decay of 125I atoms in 125I-labeled DNA causes double-stranded DNA breaks. Treatment of mouse L-cell cultures with [125I]iodorivanol resulted in a cell kill, the extent of which was dependent on the 125I specific activity and the duration of exposure. A clonogenic assay was used to quantitate cell kill. It was concluded that at least some of the [125I]iodorivanol in the culture medium was taken up by the cells, transported to the nucleus, and bound to DNA and that subsequent decay of the 125I atoms induced double-stranded DNA breaks in the genome, with consequent loss of viability. 125I-labeled DNA-binding compounds are suggested as a novel class of cytotoxic agents.", "contents": "Cytotoxicity of an 125I-labeled DNA-binding compound that induces double-stranded DNA breaks. [125I]Iodorivanol (6,9-diamino-2-ethoxy-5-[125]iodoacridine) has been prepared by direct iodination of rivanol (6.9-diamino-2-ethoxyacridine). In vitro binding of [125I]iodorivanol to PM2 DNA resulted in induction of double-stranded DNA breaks following decay of the 125I atom, presumably in the same way as decay of 125I atoms in 125I-labeled DNA causes double-stranded DNA breaks. Treatment of mouse L-cell cultures with [125I]iodorivanol resulted in a cell kill, the extent of which was dependent on the 125I specific activity and the duration of exposure. A clonogenic assay was used to quantitate cell kill. It was concluded that at least some of the [125I]iodorivanol in the culture medium was taken up by the cells, transported to the nucleus, and bound to DNA and that subsequent decay of the 125I atoms induced double-stranded DNA breaks in the genome, with consequent loss of viability. 125I-labeled DNA-binding compounds are suggested as a novel class of cytotoxic agents.", "PMID": 455306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11617", "title": "Time-temperature relationship th hyperthermic treatment of malignant and normal tissue in vivo.", "content": "The effect of hyperthermia on normal and tumor tissue was studied following water bath heating of a methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma (FSaI) isotransplanted into the feet of C3H mice. The time-temperature relation for the 50% tumor control dose over the temperature range of 41.5--45.5 degrees showed a log linear relationship which followed a biphasically modified Arrhenius plot. At temperatures above 43 degrees, there was a 50% reduction in heating time to obtain the 50% tumor control dose for each 1 degree increase in temperature, corresponding to an activation energy of 140 kcal/mol. At temperatures below 43 degrees, the curve was steeper, with a tendency to double the treatment time for each 0.5 degree reduction in temperature (activation energy, approximately 230kcal/mol). Normal tissue damage in the tumor-bearing foot was estimated at two levels with a 50% response dose assay. Severe normal tissue damage showed a time-temperature relationship similar to the tumor response, thus indicating no variation in therapeutic ratio at different temperatures. However, for slight tissue damage, the therapeutic ratio increased with decreasing temperatures, yielding a better therapeutic ratio at lower temperatures. The time-temperature relationship obtained in the FSaI fibrosarcoma is supported by other studies and points to a general time-temperature relationship for hyperthermic tumor destruction.", "contents": "Time-temperature relationship th hyperthermic treatment of malignant and normal tissue in vivo. The effect of hyperthermia on normal and tumor tissue was studied following water bath heating of a methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma (FSaI) isotransplanted into the feet of C3H mice. The time-temperature relation for the 50% tumor control dose over the temperature range of 41.5--45.5 degrees showed a log linear relationship which followed a biphasically modified Arrhenius plot. At temperatures above 43 degrees, there was a 50% reduction in heating time to obtain the 50% tumor control dose for each 1 degree increase in temperature, corresponding to an activation energy of 140 kcal/mol. At temperatures below 43 degrees, the curve was steeper, with a tendency to double the treatment time for each 0.5 degree reduction in temperature (activation energy, approximately 230kcal/mol). Normal tissue damage in the tumor-bearing foot was estimated at two levels with a 50% response dose assay. Severe normal tissue damage showed a time-temperature relationship similar to the tumor response, thus indicating no variation in therapeutic ratio at different temperatures. However, for slight tissue damage, the therapeutic ratio increased with decreasing temperatures, yielding a better therapeutic ratio at lower temperatures. The time-temperature relationship obtained in the FSaI fibrosarcoma is supported by other studies and points to a general time-temperature relationship for hyperthermic tumor destruction.", "PMID": 455307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11618", "title": "Dose-dependent DNA ruptures induced by the procarcinogen dimethylnitrosamine on primary rat liver cultures.", "content": "The effect of certain procarcinogens, among which demethylnitrosamine (DMN) is included, has been difficult to detect in several short-term assays. An alternative system, in which DMN effects could be easily quantitated, might be useful in studies of chemical carcinogenesis and environmental contamination. To develop such a system, we tested the possibility of measuring the amount of breakage produced by DMN on radiolabeled DNA of primary liver cultures. Rat liver cells were isolated 20 to 24 hr after partial hepatectomy, cultured, and pulse labeled in vitro with [3H]thymidine. Radioactively labeled cultures were treated with DMN or with the direct carcinogen N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine and then lysed directly onto alkaline sucrose gradients. DMN and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine caused a dose-dependent reduction in the molecular weight of DNA, N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine being approximately 1000 times more potent than DMN. DNA breaks appeared to be carcinogen specific and not due to cell death since treatment with high doses of cycloheximide, a noncarcinogenic hepatotoxic, was without significant effect. Our data indicate that detection of DNA breaks constitutes a more sensitive assay of DMN effects than does unscheduled DNA synthesis in primary liver cultures. Therefore, it could be useful to extend our work to determine the general applicability of quantitation of DNA breaks in liver cells as a short-term assay for the identification of possible carcinogens and procarcinogens.", "contents": "Dose-dependent DNA ruptures induced by the procarcinogen dimethylnitrosamine on primary rat liver cultures. The effect of certain procarcinogens, among which demethylnitrosamine (DMN) is included, has been difficult to detect in several short-term assays. An alternative system, in which DMN effects could be easily quantitated, might be useful in studies of chemical carcinogenesis and environmental contamination. To develop such a system, we tested the possibility of measuring the amount of breakage produced by DMN on radiolabeled DNA of primary liver cultures. Rat liver cells were isolated 20 to 24 hr after partial hepatectomy, cultured, and pulse labeled in vitro with [3H]thymidine. Radioactively labeled cultures were treated with DMN or with the direct carcinogen N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine and then lysed directly onto alkaline sucrose gradients. DMN and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine caused a dose-dependent reduction in the molecular weight of DNA, N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine being approximately 1000 times more potent than DMN. DNA breaks appeared to be carcinogen specific and not due to cell death since treatment with high doses of cycloheximide, a noncarcinogenic hepatotoxic, was without significant effect. Our data indicate that detection of DNA breaks constitutes a more sensitive assay of DMN effects than does unscheduled DNA synthesis in primary liver cultures. Therefore, it could be useful to extend our work to determine the general applicability of quantitation of DNA breaks in liver cells as a short-term assay for the identification of possible carcinogens and procarcinogens.", "PMID": 455308} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11619", "title": "Metabolism and activation of 2-acetylaminofluorene in isolated rat hepatocytes.", "content": "The metabolism of 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) as well as the activation of AAF to covalently bound and mutagenic intermediates were studied in isolated rat hepatocytes. The cell system readily formed oxidized, deacetylated, and conjugated AAF metabolites. Pretreatments of animals with the inducer beta-naphthoflavone led to increases in phenolic and conjugated as well as covalently protein-bound products. Addition of 4-nitrophenol, a substrate for conjugation, increased the levels of free phenols and inhibited the formation of water-soluble metabolites. At the same time, the rates of covalent protein binding were decreased. Formation of 9-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene could also be demonstrated. The pathway leading to this alicyclic hydroxylated AAF metabolite was not induced by prior beta-naphthoflavone treatment, nor was it inhibited by 4-nitrophenol addition. The cells converted AAF as well as aminofluorene and 2,4-diaminoanisole to mutagenic intermediates which were released into the incubation medium. 2-Aminofluorene was considerably more mutagenic than was AAF in this system. Addition of microsomes increased the mutagenicity of AAF, but not that of 2-aminofluorene or 2,4-diaminoanisole, presumably by deacetylation of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene to N-hydroxy-2-aminofluorene.", "contents": "Metabolism and activation of 2-acetylaminofluorene in isolated rat hepatocytes. The metabolism of 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) as well as the activation of AAF to covalently bound and mutagenic intermediates were studied in isolated rat hepatocytes. The cell system readily formed oxidized, deacetylated, and conjugated AAF metabolites. Pretreatments of animals with the inducer beta-naphthoflavone led to increases in phenolic and conjugated as well as covalently protein-bound products. Addition of 4-nitrophenol, a substrate for conjugation, increased the levels of free phenols and inhibited the formation of water-soluble metabolites. At the same time, the rates of covalent protein binding were decreased. Formation of 9-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene could also be demonstrated. The pathway leading to this alicyclic hydroxylated AAF metabolite was not induced by prior beta-naphthoflavone treatment, nor was it inhibited by 4-nitrophenol addition. The cells converted AAF as well as aminofluorene and 2,4-diaminoanisole to mutagenic intermediates which were released into the incubation medium. 2-Aminofluorene was considerably more mutagenic than was AAF in this system. Addition of microsomes increased the mutagenicity of AAF, but not that of 2-aminofluorene or 2,4-diaminoanisole, presumably by deacetylation of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene to N-hydroxy-2-aminofluorene.", "PMID": 455309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11620", "title": "Phase II study of cis-dischlorodiammineplatinum(II) in stage IVB Hodgkin's disease.", "content": "A broad phase II study of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) was conducted. Eight patients with stage IVB Hodgkin's disease were studied. Four of these patients attained an objective partial remission of 7--19+ weeks' duration. The usual time to the occurrence of a greater than 25% response was 1 week. This drug is active in far-advanced Hodgkin's disease with a projected lower limit of response rate from 19% to 21%.", "contents": "Phase II study of cis-dischlorodiammineplatinum(II) in stage IVB Hodgkin's disease. A broad phase II study of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) was conducted. Eight patients with stage IVB Hodgkin's disease were studied. Four of these patients attained an objective partial remission of 7--19+ weeks' duration. The usual time to the occurrence of a greater than 25% response was 1 week. This drug is active in far-advanced Hodgkin's disease with a projected lower limit of response rate from 19% to 21%.", "PMID": 455312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11621", "title": "Cytokinetic chemotherapy design for the treatment of advanced lung cancer.", "content": "Sixty patients with lung cancer, 48 with extensive disease and 12 with regional disease, were treated with cyclophosphamide and methotrexate on a schedule based on cellular kinetics concepts. Initial therapy was with cyclophosphamide (1.1 g/m2 iv) followed by methotrexate (20 mg/m2 orally twice weekly) beginning 9 days later when the tumor was considered to be most susceptible to an S-phase-specific drug. The overall objective response rate was 62% (25% complete responses and 37% partial responses) with an estimated median survival time (MST) of 46 weeks. Seventeen of 19 patients with small cell carcinoma (89%) responded (ten complete responses and seven partial responses). The MST was 62 weeks. The last nine patients entered in the study with small cell carcinoma had an MST of 71 weeks, reflecting additional responses to subsequent treatment. The objective response rate of large cell carcinoma (nine of 16 patients) and adenocarcinoma (ten of 18 patients) was 56%. The MST of patients with the former cell type was longer (57 weeks) than that of patients with the latter cell type (34 weeks). One of seven patients with epidermoid carcinoma responded. The MSTs of patients with a complete response and those with regional disease were 70 and 63 weeks respectively. Patients with a performance status of 0 or 1 survived longer (MST, 56 weeks) than those with a performance status of 2 or 3 (MST, 29 weeks). The mean dose of cyclophosphamide per course was 1.275 g/m2 and the mean nadir leukocyte count per patient was 2890/mm3. The incidence per course of leukocytes less than 1000/mm3 or platelets less than 50,000/mm was less than 3%. Mucositis was common. This schedule provides excellent maintenance therapy without undue toxicity. These survival time distributions compare favorably with those of previous reports, particularly for patients with small cell or large cell carcinoma, regional disease, or complete responses.", "contents": "Cytokinetic chemotherapy design for the treatment of advanced lung cancer. Sixty patients with lung cancer, 48 with extensive disease and 12 with regional disease, were treated with cyclophosphamide and methotrexate on a schedule based on cellular kinetics concepts. Initial therapy was with cyclophosphamide (1.1 g/m2 iv) followed by methotrexate (20 mg/m2 orally twice weekly) beginning 9 days later when the tumor was considered to be most susceptible to an S-phase-specific drug. The overall objective response rate was 62% (25% complete responses and 37% partial responses) with an estimated median survival time (MST) of 46 weeks. Seventeen of 19 patients with small cell carcinoma (89%) responded (ten complete responses and seven partial responses). The MST was 62 weeks. The last nine patients entered in the study with small cell carcinoma had an MST of 71 weeks, reflecting additional responses to subsequent treatment. The objective response rate of large cell carcinoma (nine of 16 patients) and adenocarcinoma (ten of 18 patients) was 56%. The MST of patients with the former cell type was longer (57 weeks) than that of patients with the latter cell type (34 weeks). One of seven patients with epidermoid carcinoma responded. The MSTs of patients with a complete response and those with regional disease were 70 and 63 weeks respectively. Patients with a performance status of 0 or 1 survived longer (MST, 56 weeks) than those with a performance status of 2 or 3 (MST, 29 weeks). The mean dose of cyclophosphamide per course was 1.275 g/m2 and the mean nadir leukocyte count per patient was 2890/mm3. The incidence per course of leukocytes less than 1000/mm3 or platelets less than 50,000/mm was less than 3%. Mucositis was common. This schedule provides excellent maintenance therapy without undue toxicity. These survival time distributions compare favorably with those of previous reports, particularly for patients with small cell or large cell carcinoma, regional disease, or complete responses.", "PMID": 455313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11622", "title": "Determination of N-(Phosphonacetyl)-L-aspartic acid (PALA) in dog serum and urine by gas chromatography and selected lon monitoring.", "content": "Methods are described for quantitating N-(phosphonacetyl)L-aspartic acid (PALA), a new antitumor agent presently undergoing clinical evaluation. These methods were developed to measure this compound in serum by gas chromatography using the selectivity of a nitrogen-phosphorus detector and in serum and urine by the gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric technique of selected ion monitoring. PALA and the internal standard, N-(phosphonacetyl)-L-glutamic acid (HOMOPALA), were analyzed as their tetramethyl derivatives. Extraction from the biologic fluids was achieved by first precipitating the protein with acetone and then drying the serum with subsequent washes of acetone and diethyl ether. PALA and HOMOPALA were than extracted from the dried serum into an anhydrous HCL/methanol/tetrahydrofuran solution. After removing the solvent, the extract was reacted with diazomethane to form the tetramethyl derivatives. The feasibility of the method was demonstrated in the dog by comparing the total radioactivity with PALA equivalents determined in blood and urine samples following iv administration of PALA-14C. The range of the analysis was 20.0--200 microgram/ml for the urine samples and 0.5--15 microgram/ml for the serum samples.", "contents": "Determination of N-(Phosphonacetyl)-L-aspartic acid (PALA) in dog serum and urine by gas chromatography and selected lon monitoring. Methods are described for quantitating N-(phosphonacetyl)L-aspartic acid (PALA), a new antitumor agent presently undergoing clinical evaluation. These methods were developed to measure this compound in serum by gas chromatography using the selectivity of a nitrogen-phosphorus detector and in serum and urine by the gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric technique of selected ion monitoring. PALA and the internal standard, N-(phosphonacetyl)-L-glutamic acid (HOMOPALA), were analyzed as their tetramethyl derivatives. Extraction from the biologic fluids was achieved by first precipitating the protein with acetone and then drying the serum with subsequent washes of acetone and diethyl ether. PALA and HOMOPALA were than extracted from the dried serum into an anhydrous HCL/methanol/tetrahydrofuran solution. After removing the solvent, the extract was reacted with diazomethane to form the tetramethyl derivatives. The feasibility of the method was demonstrated in the dog by comparing the total radioactivity with PALA equivalents determined in blood and urine samples following iv administration of PALA-14C. The range of the analysis was 20.0--200 microgram/ml for the urine samples and 0.5--15 microgram/ml for the serum samples.", "PMID": 455314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11623", "title": "Reduction of the renal toxicity of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) by probenecid.", "content": "Probenecid, when administered sc to F344 rats 1 hour prior to an iv LD50 dose of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) (CDPP), reduced significantly the peak BUN and serum creatinine levels which occurred 4 days following CDDP. Renal histopathology was similarly reduced by probenecid pretreatment. In BDF, mice, the LD50 value of CDDP administered ip without probenecid pretreatment was 17 mg/kg; the LD50 dose with probenecid was increased to greater than 19 mg/kg. Probenecid pretreatment did not influence the therapeutic response to CDDP when the letter was administered to BDF mice bearing L1210 leukemia.", "contents": "Reduction of the renal toxicity of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) by probenecid. Probenecid, when administered sc to F344 rats 1 hour prior to an iv LD50 dose of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) (CDPP), reduced significantly the peak BUN and serum creatinine levels which occurred 4 days following CDDP. Renal histopathology was similarly reduced by probenecid pretreatment. In BDF, mice, the LD50 value of CDDP administered ip without probenecid pretreatment was 17 mg/kg; the LD50 dose with probenecid was increased to greater than 19 mg/kg. Probenecid pretreatment did not influence the therapeutic response to CDDP when the letter was administered to BDF mice bearing L1210 leukemia.", "PMID": 455315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11624", "title": "Phase II study of anguidine in advanced breast cancer.", "content": "A phase II evaluation of anguidine was carried out in 30 patients with advanced refractory breast cancer. A dose of 5.0 mg/m2 daily for 5 days was explored. The main toxic effects were nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, hypotension, skin erythema, somnolence, confusion, and lethargy. Myelosuppression was minimal. Among these extensively pretreated patients, there was one partial responder and one additional patient who showed improvement (less than a partial response); both responses occurred in soft tissue sites.", "contents": "Phase II study of anguidine in advanced breast cancer. A phase II evaluation of anguidine was carried out in 30 patients with advanced refractory breast cancer. A dose of 5.0 mg/m2 daily for 5 days was explored. The main toxic effects were nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, hypotension, skin erythema, somnolence, confusion, and lethargy. Myelosuppression was minimal. Among these extensively pretreated patients, there was one partial responder and one additional patient who showed improvement (less than a partial response); both responses occurred in soft tissue sites.", "PMID": 455316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11625", "title": "Anthracycline antibiotic pharmacology and metabolism.", "content": "The anthracycline antibiotics show evidence of numerous interactions with cellular components and participation in several metabolic pathways. Small structural changes in the antibiotic molecule can produce major changes in intracellular localization and interaction. To date, we find that all of the anthracycline antibiotics form free radical intermediates through the catalysis of microsomal and nuclear electron-transport machinery. NADPH cytochrome P-450 reductase catalyzes the free radical formation. The free radical intermediates (\"site-specific free radicals\") may be causative of both toxicity and pharmaceutic action. The free radical intermediates degrade nonenzymatically to 7-deoxyaglycone metabolites which prove the existence of the free radical in vivo.", "contents": "Anthracycline antibiotic pharmacology and metabolism. The anthracycline antibiotics show evidence of numerous interactions with cellular components and participation in several metabolic pathways. Small structural changes in the antibiotic molecule can produce major changes in intracellular localization and interaction. To date, we find that all of the anthracycline antibiotics form free radical intermediates through the catalysis of microsomal and nuclear electron-transport machinery. NADPH cytochrome P-450 reductase catalyzes the free radical formation. The free radical intermediates (\"site-specific free radicals\") may be causative of both toxicity and pharmaceutic action. The free radical intermediates degrade nonenzymatically to 7-deoxyaglycone metabolites which prove the existence of the free radical in vivo.", "PMID": 455323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11626", "title": "Adriamycin cardiotoxicity: a survey of 1273 patients.", "content": "Valuable information was collected on the medical history and clinical course of 1273 patients entered in clinical trials with Adriamycin (ADR) carried out in 12 European cancer centers. A coded patient form was used for the data collection carried out in each center by a qualified physician following a guideline which was discussed and accepted by all of the participants. The aim of the study was to define the incidence, characteristics, and possible co-factors of the cardiomyopathy (CMP) in patients treated with combination chemotherapy regimens including ADR. The mean total dose of ADR was 268 mg/m2 (range, 15--1251 mg/m2), and 5.1% of the patients received a total dose of greater than 550 mg/m2. A \"definite\" ADR-related CMP was observed in 1.7% of the cases; another 3% of the cases were reported as \"possible\" ADR-CMP since the role played by the drug could not be clearly defined. \"Definite\" ADR-CMP was fatal in eight patients (0.6%) while \"possible\" ADR-CMP was fatal in 13 patients (1.0%). Among the possible co-factors examined, the following ones were found to be significantly associated with the occurrence of a \"definite\" ADR-CMP: (a) total dose of ADR; (b) vincristine when given both before and concomitantly with ADR; (c) bleomycin when given before ADR; and (d) radiotherapy to the mediastinum when given concomitantly with ADR. Furthermore, none of 182 patients receiving ADR by slow infusion developed a \"definite\" ADR-CMP, while 2% of the patients treated by bolus injection did so. The occurrence of a \"possible\" ADR-CMP was found to be significantly associated with two pre-existing pathologic conditions (electrocardiogram [ECG] abnormalities and hypertension) but not with the treatment-related co-factors for the \"definite\" ADR-CMP mentioned above. Other variables examined, such as sex, age, cancer type, baseline liver function, and cyclophosphamide treatment, did not seem to influence the risk of ADR-CMP. Data on ECG changes occurring during ADR treatment were also reported and their incidence was found to be strictly related to the frequency of the ECG monitoring.", "contents": "Adriamycin cardiotoxicity: a survey of 1273 patients. Valuable information was collected on the medical history and clinical course of 1273 patients entered in clinical trials with Adriamycin (ADR) carried out in 12 European cancer centers. A coded patient form was used for the data collection carried out in each center by a qualified physician following a guideline which was discussed and accepted by all of the participants. The aim of the study was to define the incidence, characteristics, and possible co-factors of the cardiomyopathy (CMP) in patients treated with combination chemotherapy regimens including ADR. The mean total dose of ADR was 268 mg/m2 (range, 15--1251 mg/m2), and 5.1% of the patients received a total dose of greater than 550 mg/m2. A \"definite\" ADR-related CMP was observed in 1.7% of the cases; another 3% of the cases were reported as \"possible\" ADR-CMP since the role played by the drug could not be clearly defined. \"Definite\" ADR-CMP was fatal in eight patients (0.6%) while \"possible\" ADR-CMP was fatal in 13 patients (1.0%). Among the possible co-factors examined, the following ones were found to be significantly associated with the occurrence of a \"definite\" ADR-CMP: (a) total dose of ADR; (b) vincristine when given both before and concomitantly with ADR; (c) bleomycin when given before ADR; and (d) radiotherapy to the mediastinum when given concomitantly with ADR. Furthermore, none of 182 patients receiving ADR by slow infusion developed a \"definite\" ADR-CMP, while 2% of the patients treated by bolus injection did so. The occurrence of a \"possible\" ADR-CMP was found to be significantly associated with two pre-existing pathologic conditions (electrocardiogram [ECG] abnormalities and hypertension) but not with the treatment-related co-factors for the \"definite\" ADR-CMP mentioned above. Other variables examined, such as sex, age, cancer type, baseline liver function, and cyclophosphamide treatment, did not seem to influence the risk of ADR-CMP. Data on ECG changes occurring during ADR treatment were also reported and their incidence was found to be strictly related to the frequency of the ECG monitoring.", "PMID": 455324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11627", "title": "Experimental evaluation of anthracycline analogs.", "content": "This review summarizes the preclinical tests conducted to date for experimental evaluation of new anthracycline analogs. Most of the data are derived from the experience at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy, at the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Md, and at the Farmitalia Research Laboratories, Nerviano, Italy. In vitro cytotoxicity tests are useful for determining the doses to be used in vivo. Antitumor activity tests in mice can be divided into different stages. P388 and L1210 leukemias are generally used in primary screening; the value of adding L1210 leukemia is briefly discussed. Other experimental tumors adopted include disseminated leukemia and transplanted solid tumors. The importance of the route and schedule of treatment is stressed. Drugs should be administered iv in the case of solid tumors, and the schedule of treatment can be adjusted according to the pharmacokinetic properties of the new analog, when these are known. If possible, the parent compound and the new analog should be dissolved in the same solvents. In the toxicity tests, cardiac toxicity deserves particular attention. Until now, the only experimental model in which a number of new anthracyclines have been tested is the rat model proposed by Zbinden. A comparison between cardiotoxicity data obtained in such models and antitumor data obtained in mice shows that cardiac toxicity can be dissociated from the antitumor activity. Knowledge of pharmacokinetic properties of new analogs is of importance for selecting the schedules of treatment and for explaining selective toxic effects.", "contents": "Experimental evaluation of anthracycline analogs. This review summarizes the preclinical tests conducted to date for experimental evaluation of new anthracycline analogs. Most of the data are derived from the experience at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy, at the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Md, and at the Farmitalia Research Laboratories, Nerviano, Italy. In vitro cytotoxicity tests are useful for determining the doses to be used in vivo. Antitumor activity tests in mice can be divided into different stages. P388 and L1210 leukemias are generally used in primary screening; the value of adding L1210 leukemia is briefly discussed. Other experimental tumors adopted include disseminated leukemia and transplanted solid tumors. The importance of the route and schedule of treatment is stressed. Drugs should be administered iv in the case of solid tumors, and the schedule of treatment can be adjusted according to the pharmacokinetic properties of the new analog, when these are known. If possible, the parent compound and the new analog should be dissolved in the same solvents. In the toxicity tests, cardiac toxicity deserves particular attention. Until now, the only experimental model in which a number of new anthracyclines have been tested is the rat model proposed by Zbinden. A comparison between cardiotoxicity data obtained in such models and antitumor data obtained in mice shows that cardiac toxicity can be dissociated from the antitumor activity. Knowledge of pharmacokinetic properties of new analogs is of importance for selecting the schedules of treatment and for explaining selective toxic effects.", "PMID": 455325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11628", "title": "Structure-activity relationships among daunorubicin and adriamycin analogs.", "content": "Structural characteristics of Adriamycin and daunorubicin analogs are discussed in terms of three antitumor activity classifications: compounds with potency and efficacy equivalent to or superior to the parent antibiotics, compounds displaying high efficacy but with decreased potency, and compounds in which a key structural change has destroyed all in vivo antitumor activity. It is first concluded that analogs possessing efficacy and potency comparable to the parent antibiotics are quite similar to the parents in structural terms, ie, their hydrophilic character, functional groups, and stereochemistry. Within this group there is suggestive evidence that altered electronic character of the aglycones may be associated with improved cardiotoxicity characteristics. The second general conclusion is that high efficacy accompanied by decreased potency is compatible with a much wider array of structural variants than is high efficacy accompanied by high potency. Thus, analogs with substantially higher or lower lipophilicity than the parent antibiotics, as well as those with an array of ionic characteristics differing from the parents, retained significant efficacy. These characteristics are compatible with the concept of multiple mechanisms of action for the anthracycline antibiotics. In general, structural changes in the sugar side chain are appreciably more compatible with retention of in vivo antitumor efficacy than are changes in the aglycone, both in terms of functional groups and stereochemistry.", "contents": "Structure-activity relationships among daunorubicin and adriamycin analogs. Structural characteristics of Adriamycin and daunorubicin analogs are discussed in terms of three antitumor activity classifications: compounds with potency and efficacy equivalent to or superior to the parent antibiotics, compounds displaying high efficacy but with decreased potency, and compounds in which a key structural change has destroyed all in vivo antitumor activity. It is first concluded that analogs possessing efficacy and potency comparable to the parent antibiotics are quite similar to the parents in structural terms, ie, their hydrophilic character, functional groups, and stereochemistry. Within this group there is suggestive evidence that altered electronic character of the aglycones may be associated with improved cardiotoxicity characteristics. The second general conclusion is that high efficacy accompanied by decreased potency is compatible with a much wider array of structural variants than is high efficacy accompanied by high potency. Thus, analogs with substantially higher or lower lipophilicity than the parent antibiotics, as well as those with an array of ionic characteristics differing from the parents, retained significant efficacy. These characteristics are compatible with the concept of multiple mechanisms of action for the anthracycline antibiotics. In general, structural changes in the sugar side chain are appreciably more compatible with retention of in vivo antitumor efficacy than are changes in the aglycone, both in terms of functional groups and stereochemistry.", "PMID": 455326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11629", "title": "Pharmacokinetic, toxicologic, and chemotherapeutic properties of detorubicin in mice: a comparative study with daunorubicin and adriamycin.", "content": "We have studied the stability, pharmacology, toxicology, and therapeutic activity in mice of detorubicin, a new semisynthetic derivative of daunorubicin. In vitro, detorubicin remains stable under acidic conditions while it is very quickly hydrolyzed into Adriamycin under neutral pH conditions. In vivo, the hydrolysis of detorubicin into Adriamycin occurs in the bloodstream a few minutes after iv injection. The tissue distribution of detorubicin in mice is, however, very distinct from that observed after administration of Adriamycin and daunorubicin. The therapeutic effect of detorubicin on the sc implanted L1210 leukemia is superior to that of daunorubicin and at least equal to that of Adriamycin. Detorubicin can thus be considered a prodrug of Adriamycin with very distinct pharmacokinetic and perhaps therapeutic properties.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetic, toxicologic, and chemotherapeutic properties of detorubicin in mice: a comparative study with daunorubicin and adriamycin. We have studied the stability, pharmacology, toxicology, and therapeutic activity in mice of detorubicin, a new semisynthetic derivative of daunorubicin. In vitro, detorubicin remains stable under acidic conditions while it is very quickly hydrolyzed into Adriamycin under neutral pH conditions. In vivo, the hydrolysis of detorubicin into Adriamycin occurs in the bloodstream a few minutes after iv injection. The tissue distribution of detorubicin in mice is, however, very distinct from that observed after administration of Adriamycin and daunorubicin. The therapeutic effect of detorubicin on the sc implanted L1210 leukemia is superior to that of daunorubicin and at least equal to that of Adriamycin. Detorubicin can thus be considered a prodrug of Adriamycin with very distinct pharmacokinetic and perhaps therapeutic properties.", "PMID": 455327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11630", "title": "The interval-force relationship: a technique for evaluating the cardiac toxicity of anthracycline analogs.", "content": "The most serious side effect of the anthracycline derivatives is dose-related cardiac toxicity induced during repeated administration. An in vitro method is described which assesses the interval-force relationship in evaluating the contractility of the rat and rabbit heart. Repeated administration of Adriamycin resulted in a progressive decrease in contractility which correlated closely with the cumulative dose administered. This model offers a reliable method to evaluate the effect of new anthracycline analogs on the heart and to study the potential of other drugs or agents to protect against cardiac toxicity.", "contents": "The interval-force relationship: a technique for evaluating the cardiac toxicity of anthracycline analogs. The most serious side effect of the anthracycline derivatives is dose-related cardiac toxicity induced during repeated administration. An in vitro method is described which assesses the interval-force relationship in evaluating the contractility of the rat and rabbit heart. Repeated administration of Adriamycin resulted in a progressive decrease in contractility which correlated closely with the cumulative dose administered. This model offers a reliable method to evaluate the effect of new anthracycline analogs on the heart and to study the potential of other drugs or agents to protect against cardiac toxicity.", "PMID": 455328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11631", "title": "Electron microscopic studies of the heart and light microscopic studies of the skin after treatment of golden hamsters with adriamycin, detorubicin, AD-32, and aclacinomycin.", "content": "Golden hamsters received Adriamycin (ADR), detorubicin (DTR), AD-32, or aclacinomycin (ACM) three times weekly at doses extrapolated from optimal doses in L1210 leukemia. Minimal early lesions of the myocardium were detected by electron microscopy in ACM-treated animals. These lesions were aggravated after several weeks of treatment but remained reversible. Lesions in AD-32-treated hamsters were slightly more marked than those seen in ACM-treated animals but were much less severe than those observed in ADR- or DTR-treated animals. Similarly, light microscopy revealed pathologic changes in the skin following ADR or DTR administration. These changes were not seen in animals receiving AD-32 or ACM.", "contents": "Electron microscopic studies of the heart and light microscopic studies of the skin after treatment of golden hamsters with adriamycin, detorubicin, AD-32, and aclacinomycin. Golden hamsters received Adriamycin (ADR), detorubicin (DTR), AD-32, or aclacinomycin (ACM) three times weekly at doses extrapolated from optimal doses in L1210 leukemia. Minimal early lesions of the myocardium were detected by electron microscopy in ACM-treated animals. These lesions were aggravated after several weeks of treatment but remained reversible. Lesions in AD-32-treated hamsters were slightly more marked than those seen in ACM-treated animals but were much less severe than those observed in ADR- or DTR-treated animals. Similarly, light microscopy revealed pathologic changes in the skin following ADR or DTR administration. These changes were not seen in animals receiving AD-32 or ACM.", "PMID": 455329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11632", "title": "Clinical activity of detorubicin: a new anthracycline derivative.", "content": "The anthracycline derivatives are intercalating drugs which are of major importance in the treatment of leukemias and in the management of solid tumors. Structural analogs have been prepared by semisynthetic modifications in an attempt to extend the spectrum of antitumor activity and to reduce toxicity (acute myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity). This report concerns our preliminary clinical experience in 111 patients who received detorubicin. Two dose schedules were used in acute leukemia patients. Sequential doses were active in acute leukemia relapses but the mucous membrane toxicity was excessive; more recently, intermittent doses proved active in acute leukemia relapses (one 6-mg/kg dose) and in a patient with resistant Burkitt's lymphoma. In non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, a complete response rate of 71% was achieved with an intermittent schedule (3 mg/kg/day X 3 weeks). A remarkable shrinkage of skin involvement was also observed. Detorubicin showed a high activity in mycosis fungoides (five regressions among six patients) and some activity in soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcomas, and various solid tumors.", "contents": "Clinical activity of detorubicin: a new anthracycline derivative. The anthracycline derivatives are intercalating drugs which are of major importance in the treatment of leukemias and in the management of solid tumors. Structural analogs have been prepared by semisynthetic modifications in an attempt to extend the spectrum of antitumor activity and to reduce toxicity (acute myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity). This report concerns our preliminary clinical experience in 111 patients who received detorubicin. Two dose schedules were used in acute leukemia patients. Sequential doses were active in acute leukemia relapses but the mucous membrane toxicity was excessive; more recently, intermittent doses proved active in acute leukemia relapses (one 6-mg/kg dose) and in a patient with resistant Burkitt's lymphoma. In non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, a complete response rate of 71% was achieved with an intermittent schedule (3 mg/kg/day X 3 weeks). A remarkable shrinkage of skin involvement was also observed. Detorubicin showed a high activity in mycosis fungoides (five regressions among six patients) and some activity in soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcomas, and various solid tumors.", "PMID": 455330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11633", "title": "Early clinical trial with quelamycin.", "content": "Quelamycin (triferric doxorubicin) is a derivative of Adriamycin with different pharmacologic properties. Our phase I clinical study of quelamycin includes 37 patients with a wide spectrum of solid tumors. The recommended dose in good-risk patients is 150 mg/m2, given as a 1-hour infusion every 3 weeks. The dose-limiting factor appears to be myelosuppression, especially leukopenia. Other toxic effects include gastrointestinal intolerance and alopecia. Chills and fever are commonly encountered and might be due to an excess of free iron in currently available preparations. Cardiotoxicity could not be properly assessed. An objective antitumor effect was seen in patients with lung, gastric, colon, and ovarian carcinomas as well as osteogenic sarcoma. Further preclinical and clinical studies with an improved pharmaceutic formulation of the drug are highly desirable.", "contents": "Early clinical trial with quelamycin. Quelamycin (triferric doxorubicin) is a derivative of Adriamycin with different pharmacologic properties. Our phase I clinical study of quelamycin includes 37 patients with a wide spectrum of solid tumors. The recommended dose in good-risk patients is 150 mg/m2, given as a 1-hour infusion every 3 weeks. The dose-limiting factor appears to be myelosuppression, especially leukopenia. Other toxic effects include gastrointestinal intolerance and alopecia. Chills and fever are commonly encountered and might be due to an excess of free iron in currently available preparations. Cardiotoxicity could not be properly assessed. An objective antitumor effect was seen in patients with lung, gastric, colon, and ovarian carcinomas as well as osteogenic sarcoma. Further preclinical and clinical studies with an improved pharmaceutic formulation of the drug are highly desirable.", "PMID": 455331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11634", "title": "Iron toxicity studies of quelamycin.", "content": "A previous phase I study demonstrated excessive generalized toxicity (20 of 21 patients) and cardiotoxicity (eight of 21 patients) of single-day intermittent quelamycin (NSC-267703) treatment, and a modified schedule was recommended to overcome this acute toxicity. In the present study, 40 mg/m2 of quelamycin was administered iv on 2 or 3 consecutive days. This 2- or 3-day course was associated with a decrease in the incidence of general symptoms (five of nine patients) and a decrease in cardiotoxicity (none of nine patients). In addition, patients receiving multiple courses of quelamycin were evaluated. Clinical and pathologic findings supported the diagnosis of early hemochromatosis. In conclusion, quelaymcin administration was associated with acute and chronic iron-overloading toxicity. Acute iron toxicity was prevented by the administration of quelamycin at a dose of 40 mg/m2 iv on 3 consecutive days. On the other hand, hemochromatosis was an unexpected finding which requires further investigations before this drug is acceptable for broader studies.", "contents": "Iron toxicity studies of quelamycin. A previous phase I study demonstrated excessive generalized toxicity (20 of 21 patients) and cardiotoxicity (eight of 21 patients) of single-day intermittent quelamycin (NSC-267703) treatment, and a modified schedule was recommended to overcome this acute toxicity. In the present study, 40 mg/m2 of quelamycin was administered iv on 2 or 3 consecutive days. This 2- or 3-day course was associated with a decrease in the incidence of general symptoms (five of nine patients) and a decrease in cardiotoxicity (none of nine patients). In addition, patients receiving multiple courses of quelamycin were evaluated. Clinical and pathologic findings supported the diagnosis of early hemochromatosis. In conclusion, quelaymcin administration was associated with acute and chronic iron-overloading toxicity. Acute iron toxicity was prevented by the administration of quelamycin at a dose of 40 mg/m2 iv on 3 consecutive days. On the other hand, hemochromatosis was an unexpected finding which requires further investigations before this drug is acceptable for broader studies.", "PMID": 455332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11635", "title": "Preliminary phase I study of 4'-epi-adriamycin.", "content": "A phase I study of 4'-epi-Adriamycin (4'-epi-ADM) was performed in 22 patients with various types of advanced solid tumors. Very preliminary results would indicate that the drug produces a pattern of acute toxicity which is similar to that of Adriamycin. However, the incidence of vomiting, alopecia, and marrow suppression was less pronounced than that of Adriamycin. 4'-Epi-ADM prolonged the systolic time interval, although no patient presented clinical signs of cardiotoxicity. Two patients with renal carcinoma and malignant melanoma showed objective improvement. Present results suggest that further clinical studies with 4'-epi-ADM are indicated.", "contents": "Preliminary phase I study of 4'-epi-adriamycin. A phase I study of 4'-epi-Adriamycin (4'-epi-ADM) was performed in 22 patients with various types of advanced solid tumors. Very preliminary results would indicate that the drug produces a pattern of acute toxicity which is similar to that of Adriamycin. However, the incidence of vomiting, alopecia, and marrow suppression was less pronounced than that of Adriamycin. 4'-Epi-ADM prolonged the systolic time interval, although no patient presented clinical signs of cardiotoxicity. Two patients with renal carcinoma and malignant melanoma showed objective improvement. Present results suggest that further clinical studies with 4'-epi-ADM are indicated.", "PMID": 455333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11636", "title": "Initial clinical evaluation of N-trifluoroacetyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD-32), an adriamycin analog.", "content": "N-Trifluoroacetyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD-32) is superior to Adriamycin in murine L1210 and P388 leukemias and in a number of solid tumor systems, including Ridgway osteogenic sarcoma and Lewis lung carcinoma. In preclinical toxicology studies, AD-32 was less toxic than Adriamycin in both tumor- and non-tumor-being mice and in rabbits. An initial clinical trial was carried out in 23 patients who received a total of 74 courses of AD-32 over a dose range of 100--700 mg/m2 administered at 21-day intervals. Hydrocortisone given during the period of infusion prevented all clinical manifestations of acute toxicity. The AD-32 dose-limiting toxicity, leukopenia, was comparable to that of Adriamycin at a dose of 10:1, but at these equivalently myelosuppressive doses, AD-32 induced less gastrointestinal toxicity and alopecia than Adriamycin and it did not cause local tissue damage following inadvertent paravenous extravasation. Although two responses are reported, the therapeutic activity of AD-32 cannot be assessed because of an inadequate number of patients in any given tumor type. A phase II study is being initiated at a dose of 600 mg/m2 given at 21-day intervals.", "contents": "Initial clinical evaluation of N-trifluoroacetyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD-32), an adriamycin analog. N-Trifluoroacetyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD-32) is superior to Adriamycin in murine L1210 and P388 leukemias and in a number of solid tumor systems, including Ridgway osteogenic sarcoma and Lewis lung carcinoma. In preclinical toxicology studies, AD-32 was less toxic than Adriamycin in both tumor- and non-tumor-being mice and in rabbits. An initial clinical trial was carried out in 23 patients who received a total of 74 courses of AD-32 over a dose range of 100--700 mg/m2 administered at 21-day intervals. Hydrocortisone given during the period of infusion prevented all clinical manifestations of acute toxicity. The AD-32 dose-limiting toxicity, leukopenia, was comparable to that of Adriamycin at a dose of 10:1, but at these equivalently myelosuppressive doses, AD-32 induced less gastrointestinal toxicity and alopecia than Adriamycin and it did not cause local tissue damage following inadvertent paravenous extravasation. Although two responses are reported, the therapeutic activity of AD-32 cannot be assessed because of an inadequate number of patients in any given tumor type. A phase II study is being initiated at a dose of 600 mg/m2 given at 21-day intervals.", "PMID": 455334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11637", "title": "Clinical study of aclacinomycin A.", "content": "A phase I study of a new anthracycline antibiotic, aclacinomycin A, was performed in a total of 15 patients with advanced malignancy to determine the maximum-tolerated dose. The gastrointestinal toxicity which occurred was not dose-related and was not severe. Epilation and stomatitis were extremely minimal. Both hepatic dysfunction and hematologic toxicity were dose-limiting. A recommended dose for phase II study was determined to be 2.5--3.0 mg/kg (approximately 100--120 mg/m2) given in 3-week intervals. Objective response was observed in two patients with malignant lymphomas.", "contents": "Clinical study of aclacinomycin A. A phase I study of a new anthracycline antibiotic, aclacinomycin A, was performed in a total of 15 patients with advanced malignancy to determine the maximum-tolerated dose. The gastrointestinal toxicity which occurred was not dose-related and was not severe. Epilation and stomatitis were extremely minimal. Both hepatic dysfunction and hematologic toxicity were dose-limiting. A recommended dose for phase II study was determined to be 2.5--3.0 mg/kg (approximately 100--120 mg/m2) given in 3-week intervals. Objective response was observed in two patients with malignant lymphomas.", "PMID": 455335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11638", "title": "Determination, by carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, of the composition of glucans synthesized by enzymes of the cariogenic organism Streptococcus mutans.", "content": "The 13C-n.m.r. spectra of water-soluble and -insoluble glucans synthesized by enzymes isolated from six strains of Streptococcus mutans are interpreted. The glucans are shown to be composed primarily of alpha-(1 linked to 3)- and alpha-(1 linked to 6)-linked glucosyl residues, and the relative abundance of each linkage is estimated from peak areas. Treatment of water-insoluble glucans with dextranase is found to result in water-soluble and -insoluble products, the former enriched in alpha-(1 linked to 6)-linkages and the latter in alpha-(1 linked to 3)-linkages. The structural conclusions arrived at by 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy are consistent with data from methylation analysis and 1H-n.m.r. spectroscopy.", "contents": "Determination, by carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, of the composition of glucans synthesized by enzymes of the cariogenic organism Streptococcus mutans. The 13C-n.m.r. spectra of water-soluble and -insoluble glucans synthesized by enzymes isolated from six strains of Streptococcus mutans are interpreted. The glucans are shown to be composed primarily of alpha-(1 linked to 3)- and alpha-(1 linked to 6)-linked glucosyl residues, and the relative abundance of each linkage is estimated from peak areas. Treatment of water-insoluble glucans with dextranase is found to result in water-soluble and -insoluble products, the former enriched in alpha-(1 linked to 6)-linkages and the latter in alpha-(1 linked to 3)-linkages. The structural conclusions arrived at by 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy are consistent with data from methylation analysis and 1H-n.m.r. spectroscopy.", "PMID": 455337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11639", "title": "Stroke--1978.", "content": "The future of cerebral vascular disease management depends upon a sound biochemical and physiological understanding of the processes leading to stroke. As these become defined, new forms of therapy will arise with greater promise for treatment of the constellation of factors and symptoms known as stroke.", "contents": "Stroke--1978. The future of cerebral vascular disease management depends upon a sound biochemical and physiological understanding of the processes leading to stroke. As these become defined, new forms of therapy will arise with greater promise for treatment of the constellation of factors and symptoms known as stroke.", "PMID": 455338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11640", "title": "The characterization of human uterine smooth muscle cells in culture.", "content": "Primary cultures initiated from normal human uterine endometrium after total enzymatic dissociation contained epithelioid cells and smooth muscle cells. The smooth muscle cells were subsequently isolated by differential trypsinization and grown in culture for 36 +/- 4 generations. Ultrastructural examination of log and post-confluent cultures of cells at low and high population doubling levels revealed characteristics similar to those of published reports on other smooth muscle cells studied in vivo and in vitro. Among the common features present were: (a) abundant bundles of 60--70 A myofilaments; (b) branched mitochondria; (c) stacks of cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum; (d) caveolae intracellulares; (e) nexuses. Other features included ovoid nuclei, a well developed Golgi apparatus and abundant free ribosomes. The subcultured cells exhibited features of dedifferentiation in the log phase of growth and at post-confluency. However, the post-confluent cells showed characteristics indicating redifferentiation back towards their in vivo morphology. Smooth muscle cells isolated from endometrial curettings may provide a useful model for biochemical and pharmacological studies of a cell type derived from a hormonal target tissue as the cells \"age\" in culture.", "contents": "The characterization of human uterine smooth muscle cells in culture. Primary cultures initiated from normal human uterine endometrium after total enzymatic dissociation contained epithelioid cells and smooth muscle cells. The smooth muscle cells were subsequently isolated by differential trypsinization and grown in culture for 36 +/- 4 generations. Ultrastructural examination of log and post-confluent cultures of cells at low and high population doubling levels revealed characteristics similar to those of published reports on other smooth muscle cells studied in vivo and in vitro. Among the common features present were: (a) abundant bundles of 60--70 A myofilaments; (b) branched mitochondria; (c) stacks of cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum; (d) caveolae intracellulares; (e) nexuses. Other features included ovoid nuclei, a well developed Golgi apparatus and abundant free ribosomes. The subcultured cells exhibited features of dedifferentiation in the log phase of growth and at post-confluency. However, the post-confluent cells showed characteristics indicating redifferentiation back towards their in vivo morphology. Smooth muscle cells isolated from endometrial curettings may provide a useful model for biochemical and pharmacological studies of a cell type derived from a hormonal target tissue as the cells \"age\" in culture.", "PMID": 455387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11641", "title": "Phagocytosis of cells in the gastric surface epithelium of the rat.", "content": "Gastric surface epithelial cells (SEC) from fed rats, from rats fasted for 16 h and from mucosae exposed in an ex-vivo chamber to 16 mM aspirin for 5 min were examined by transmission electron microscopy. SEC have the capability to phagocytose adjacent epithelial cells and parietal cells. Phagocytosis is rare in mucosae from fasted animals but common in fed animals or after brief exposure to aspirin. Phagocytic capabilities are not restricted to the progenitor zone but exist throughout the surface epithelium. Phagocytosis may provide a mechanism for the removal of damaged or senescent cells from the surface epithelium.", "contents": "Phagocytosis of cells in the gastric surface epithelium of the rat. Gastric surface epithelial cells (SEC) from fed rats, from rats fasted for 16 h and from mucosae exposed in an ex-vivo chamber to 16 mM aspirin for 5 min were examined by transmission electron microscopy. SEC have the capability to phagocytose adjacent epithelial cells and parietal cells. Phagocytosis is rare in mucosae from fasted animals but common in fed animals or after brief exposure to aspirin. Phagocytic capabilities are not restricted to the progenitor zone but exist throughout the surface epithelium. Phagocytosis may provide a mechanism for the removal of damaged or senescent cells from the surface epithelium.", "PMID": 455388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11642", "title": "Evidence for actin transformation during the contraction-relaxation cycle of cytoplasmic actomyosin: cycle blockade by phalloidin injection.", "content": "1) The injection of a mushroom drug, Phalloidin (750 microgram -1 mg/ml), into the endoplasmic channel of Physarum veins induces an irreversible blockade of the intrinsic contraction-relaxation automaticity of the ectoplasmic tube wall, as measured by tensiometrical methods. 2) The morphological responses to Phalloidin injection include an increase and condensation of cytoplasmic actomyosin sheets bordering the plasmalemma invaginations within the ectoplasmic tube and a more pronounced dense layer of \"groundplasm\" in the cell cortex. This is in accordance with experiments with other cells as well as with Physarum. 3) The addition of marker particles to the injection solution revealed that the injected substances can be brought into direct contact with the contractile substrate, before newly formed membranes separate off the injection fluid. 4) Since Phalloidin irreversibly transforms oligomeric actin into a filamentous \"Phalloidin-actin complex\" and because this transformation does not hinder the actin in activating myosin ATPase, it is concluded that the contraction-relaxation cycle of cytoplasmic actomyosin in Physarum involves actin transformations. If these transformations are hindered, e.g. by Phalloidin, one stage and thereby the whole cycle is sustained which results in a blockade of the intrinsic contraction automaticity. 5) The functional importance of actin transformations in the congraction physiology of cytoplasmic actomyosins and cell motility phenomena is discussed.", "contents": "Evidence for actin transformation during the contraction-relaxation cycle of cytoplasmic actomyosin: cycle blockade by phalloidin injection. 1) The injection of a mushroom drug, Phalloidin (750 microgram -1 mg/ml), into the endoplasmic channel of Physarum veins induces an irreversible blockade of the intrinsic contraction-relaxation automaticity of the ectoplasmic tube wall, as measured by tensiometrical methods. 2) The morphological responses to Phalloidin injection include an increase and condensation of cytoplasmic actomyosin sheets bordering the plasmalemma invaginations within the ectoplasmic tube and a more pronounced dense layer of \"groundplasm\" in the cell cortex. This is in accordance with experiments with other cells as well as with Physarum. 3) The addition of marker particles to the injection solution revealed that the injected substances can be brought into direct contact with the contractile substrate, before newly formed membranes separate off the injection fluid. 4) Since Phalloidin irreversibly transforms oligomeric actin into a filamentous \"Phalloidin-actin complex\" and because this transformation does not hinder the actin in activating myosin ATPase, it is concluded that the contraction-relaxation cycle of cytoplasmic actomyosin in Physarum involves actin transformations. If these transformations are hindered, e.g. by Phalloidin, one stage and thereby the whole cycle is sustained which results in a blockade of the intrinsic contraction automaticity. 5) The functional importance of actin transformations in the congraction physiology of cytoplasmic actomyosins and cell motility phenomena is discussed.", "PMID": 455389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11643", "title": "The fine structure of the ocelli of Schistocerca gregaria. The neural organisation of the synaptic plexus.", "content": "A study of the organisation of the locust dorsal ocellus shows that the structure is designed to provide the maximum possible effective aperture. The condenser-like cuticular lens and the dispersal of the rhabdome over a large proportion of the circumferential area of the retinula cells increases the light gathering power of the eye. The synaptic plexus of the ocellus has two major features: (i) the retinula cells are repeatedly and reciprocally connected by synapses and junctions, and (ii) there is an extensive lateral and feedback network between the receptors and interneurons. A unified structure is described for a synapse that presents differing profiles dependent upon the angle of section. A distinct morphological class of junction is described between retinula cells. The synaptic arrangements of morphologically identical retinula cells vary from cell to cell and the synaptic plexus is not organised with a high degree of spatial precision. The overall synaptic configurations are discussed in terms of the varied response characteristics of units in the ocellar nerve.", "contents": "The fine structure of the ocelli of Schistocerca gregaria. The neural organisation of the synaptic plexus. A study of the organisation of the locust dorsal ocellus shows that the structure is designed to provide the maximum possible effective aperture. The condenser-like cuticular lens and the dispersal of the rhabdome over a large proportion of the circumferential area of the retinula cells increases the light gathering power of the eye. The synaptic plexus of the ocellus has two major features: (i) the retinula cells are repeatedly and reciprocally connected by synapses and junctions, and (ii) there is an extensive lateral and feedback network between the receptors and interneurons. A unified structure is described for a synapse that presents differing profiles dependent upon the angle of section. A distinct morphological class of junction is described between retinula cells. The synaptic arrangements of morphologically identical retinula cells vary from cell to cell and the synaptic plexus is not organised with a high degree of spatial precision. The overall synaptic configurations are discussed in terms of the varied response characteristics of units in the ocellar nerve.", "PMID": 455390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11644", "title": "An ultrastructural stereological analysis of the aortic body chief cell of adult rabbits.", "content": "The chief cells of the aortic body (subclavian body) of adult New Zealand white rabbits were examined by ultrastructural stereological analysis. The chief cell nuclei occupy 26.5% of the total volume. Dense-core vesicles account for 16.5% of the cytoplasmic volume, followed by mitochondria (11.6%), endoplasmic reticulum (3.3%), and Golgi apparatus (0.6%). The dense-core vesicles measure approximately 131.6 nm in diameter (corrected) and exhibit a heterogeneous size distribution. Both perivascular adrenergic nerve terminals and presumptive afferent terminals presynaptic to the chief cells are observed. The mean synaptic vesicle size of the terminals adjacent to chief cells is 54 nm. The heterogeneous size distribution of the dense-core vesicles of chief cells may indicate the storage of different biogenic amines and/or different secretion or maturation states within the chief cells.", "contents": "An ultrastructural stereological analysis of the aortic body chief cell of adult rabbits. The chief cells of the aortic body (subclavian body) of adult New Zealand white rabbits were examined by ultrastructural stereological analysis. The chief cell nuclei occupy 26.5% of the total volume. Dense-core vesicles account for 16.5% of the cytoplasmic volume, followed by mitochondria (11.6%), endoplasmic reticulum (3.3%), and Golgi apparatus (0.6%). The dense-core vesicles measure approximately 131.6 nm in diameter (corrected) and exhibit a heterogeneous size distribution. Both perivascular adrenergic nerve terminals and presumptive afferent terminals presynaptic to the chief cells are observed. The mean synaptic vesicle size of the terminals adjacent to chief cells is 54 nm. The heterogeneous size distribution of the dense-core vesicles of chief cells may indicate the storage of different biogenic amines and/or different secretion or maturation states within the chief cells.", "PMID": 455391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11645", "title": "Ultrastructure of the Y-organ of Astacus astacus (L.) (Crustacea) in relation to the moult cycle.", "content": "The electron microscopical investigation of Y-organs of Astacus astacus revealed that during intermoult (stage C) the cytoplasm is poorly developed and that it increases at premoult (stage D). It then shows the typical signs of steroid production, namely agranular endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of the tubular type. Furthermore, a larger type of mitochondria with a regular pattern of internal structure is described.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of the Y-organ of Astacus astacus (L.) (Crustacea) in relation to the moult cycle. The electron microscopical investigation of Y-organs of Astacus astacus revealed that during intermoult (stage C) the cytoplasm is poorly developed and that it increases at premoult (stage D). It then shows the typical signs of steroid production, namely agranular endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of the tubular type. Furthermore, a larger type of mitochondria with a regular pattern of internal structure is described.", "PMID": 455392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11646", "title": "The fiber composition of the semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit.", "content": "The semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit is composed of a homogeneous fiber population. Fiber typing was carried out by means of light and electron microscopy according to which this muscle exhibits structural features that are either characteristic for both \"red\" and \"white\" fibers, or that do not allow for any classification according to the A-, B-, C-fiber system. Hence the long-held assumption that the semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit represents a classical paradigm of a \"red\" muscle should be revised in light of the present results.", "contents": "The fiber composition of the semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit. The semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit is composed of a homogeneous fiber population. Fiber typing was carried out by means of light and electron microscopy according to which this muscle exhibits structural features that are either characteristic for both \"red\" and \"white\" fibers, or that do not allow for any classification according to the A-, B-, C-fiber system. Hence the long-held assumption that the semitendinosus muscle of the rabbit represents a classical paradigm of a \"red\" muscle should be revised in light of the present results.", "PMID": 455393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11647", "title": "Fixed phagocytes in the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis.", "content": "Morphological and histochemical examination of the blood and connective tissue of the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis injected with various types of foreign particulate materials has shown the existence of free as well as fixed phagocytic cells. The morphology of the fixed phagocytes is described, and the phagocytic system of the snail is compared with that of other molluscan species.", "contents": "Fixed phagocytes in the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis. Morphological and histochemical examination of the blood and connective tissue of the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis injected with various types of foreign particulate materials has shown the existence of free as well as fixed phagocytic cells. The morphology of the fixed phagocytes is described, and the phagocytic system of the snail is compared with that of other molluscan species.", "PMID": 455394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11648", "title": "Nucleus praeopticus and nucleus lateralis tuberis of Salmo salar and Salmo gairdneri: structure and relationship to the hypophysis.", "content": "The nucleus praeopticus (NPO) is located on both sides of the preoptic recess and is composed of a pars parvocellularis and a pars magnocellularis. Only in the rainbow trout does the pars magnocellularis consist of separately located medium-sized cells and very large cells. Cytologically, three cell types can be distinguished: 1) unipolar cells ending in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 2) bipolar cells also ending in the CSF and forming an axon, and 3) multipolar cells which generally do not have a direct connection with the ventricle. Axons originate from the cell bodies forming the paired preopticohypophysial tract that runs along the border of the diencephalon and the optic tract. A considerable number of NPO fibers leading to the hypophysis makes close contact with the cell bodies of the pars lateralis of the nucleus lateralis tuberis, indicating a functional relationship. Most NPO fibers terminate in the caudal part of the neurohypophysis, around blood capillaries and at the basal lamina of the pars intermedia. Far fewer fibers appear to terminate near the boundary of the neurohypophysis and the rostral and proximal pars distalis. The nucleus lateralis tuberis (NLT) is located in the caudal hypothalamus, beginning at the rostral end of the horizontal commissure and extending caudally beyond the hypophysial stalk. It consists of the partes rostralis, medialis, lateralis and ventrolateralis. In both species the p. rostralis contains small subependymal neurons and some larger ones. Only in the p. medialis of the Atlantic salmon are large cells present. In both species the most prominent part is the p. lateralis, which consists solely of large cells. Cells situated between the p. medialis and the p. lateralis are grouped in the p. ventrolateralis. It was impossible to trace the axons originating in the NLT, since the cyto- and axoplasm could not be stained specifically. The structure of the NPO and NLT in the two salmonid species is compared with that of other teleosts.", "contents": "Nucleus praeopticus and nucleus lateralis tuberis of Salmo salar and Salmo gairdneri: structure and relationship to the hypophysis. The nucleus praeopticus (NPO) is located on both sides of the preoptic recess and is composed of a pars parvocellularis and a pars magnocellularis. Only in the rainbow trout does the pars magnocellularis consist of separately located medium-sized cells and very large cells. Cytologically, three cell types can be distinguished: 1) unipolar cells ending in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 2) bipolar cells also ending in the CSF and forming an axon, and 3) multipolar cells which generally do not have a direct connection with the ventricle. Axons originate from the cell bodies forming the paired preopticohypophysial tract that runs along the border of the diencephalon and the optic tract. A considerable number of NPO fibers leading to the hypophysis makes close contact with the cell bodies of the pars lateralis of the nucleus lateralis tuberis, indicating a functional relationship. Most NPO fibers terminate in the caudal part of the neurohypophysis, around blood capillaries and at the basal lamina of the pars intermedia. Far fewer fibers appear to terminate near the boundary of the neurohypophysis and the rostral and proximal pars distalis. The nucleus lateralis tuberis (NLT) is located in the caudal hypothalamus, beginning at the rostral end of the horizontal commissure and extending caudally beyond the hypophysial stalk. It consists of the partes rostralis, medialis, lateralis and ventrolateralis. In both species the p. rostralis contains small subependymal neurons and some larger ones. Only in the p. medialis of the Atlantic salmon are large cells present. In both species the most prominent part is the p. lateralis, which consists solely of large cells. Cells situated between the p. medialis and the p. lateralis are grouped in the p. ventrolateralis. It was impossible to trace the axons originating in the NLT, since the cyto- and axoplasm could not be stained specifically. The structure of the NPO and NLT in the two salmonid species is compared with that of other teleosts.", "PMID": 455395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11649", "title": "The fine structure of the vesicular component of the ultimobranchial gland of the domestic fowl.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the polymorphic vesicular component of the ultimobranchial gland of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus) has been described in detail, together with the structure of the cell strands interconnecting the vesicles and the parathyroid nodules lying within the ultimobranchial stroma. The vesicles frequently appear to arise from the nodules by way of the cell strands. The strands show a structure of their component cells intermediate between that of the parathyroid and the vesicular cells, although the position at which the strand changes from an essentially parathyroid structure to an essentially vesicular structure is very variable. The degree and kind of secretory activity within different cell types has been described. A review of the structure of ultimobranchial glands throughout the vertebrates shows that similar tissue with a similar secretory potential has been observed in all vertebrate classes, suggesting a functional significance for this part of the gland.", "contents": "The fine structure of the vesicular component of the ultimobranchial gland of the domestic fowl. The ultrastructure of the polymorphic vesicular component of the ultimobranchial gland of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus) has been described in detail, together with the structure of the cell strands interconnecting the vesicles and the parathyroid nodules lying within the ultimobranchial stroma. The vesicles frequently appear to arise from the nodules by way of the cell strands. The strands show a structure of their component cells intermediate between that of the parathyroid and the vesicular cells, although the position at which the strand changes from an essentially parathyroid structure to an essentially vesicular structure is very variable. The degree and kind of secretory activity within different cell types has been described. A review of the structure of ultimobranchial glands throughout the vertebrates shows that similar tissue with a similar secretory potential has been observed in all vertebrate classes, suggesting a functional significance for this part of the gland.", "PMID": 455396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11650", "title": "Ultrastructure of the subfornical organ of the chicken (Gallus domesticus).", "content": "The SFO of the chicken is divided in half by a large central blood sinus; ventrally it is covered by a thin layer of ependyma (including tanycytes, dendrites, and axons) which connects the two lateral halves and protrudes as a midsagittal crest into the lumen of the third ventricle. The ependyma consists predominantly of tanycytes with long basal processes which terminate upon perivascular spaces. These cells have an extensive Golgi apparatus and abundant lysosomes; their cellular apices containing polyribosomes and a few vesicles frequently protrude into the ventricle. In addition to astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglial cells, there is another glial cell population that is distinguished by the presence of parallel stacks or spherical to ovoid conglomerates of rough ER and their unique location, i.e., limited to areas ventral and ventral-lateral to the large blood sinus. Two types of neurons are present: neurons in which there is a paucity of granulated vesicles and occasional vacuoles in both the cytoplasm and nuclei, the second type of neuron elaborates many granulated vesicles. Numerous puncta adhaerentia are observed between adjacent neuronal perikarya and between glial processes and neuronal perikarya. Diverse axon types are found within the chicken SFO. Axo-dendritic and axo-somatic axon terminals and presynaptic axon dilations contain assorted combinations of electron-lucent and granulated vesicles of different maximal diameters. Based on the morphology of these axons, cholinergic, peptidergic, and serotoninergic fibers are described. There are two additional groups of axons whose classification awaits further investigation. The chicken SFO differs from the mammalian SFO in several respects: it possesses an ependyma with secretory and/or absorptive tanycytes predominating; it is divided midsagittally by a central blood sinus; its lateral and dorsal limits are nebulous; a previously undescribed peculiar type of glial cell is found in a limited portion of the organ; supraependymal neurons are lacking.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of the subfornical organ of the chicken (Gallus domesticus). The SFO of the chicken is divided in half by a large central blood sinus; ventrally it is covered by a thin layer of ependyma (including tanycytes, dendrites, and axons) which connects the two lateral halves and protrudes as a midsagittal crest into the lumen of the third ventricle. The ependyma consists predominantly of tanycytes with long basal processes which terminate upon perivascular spaces. These cells have an extensive Golgi apparatus and abundant lysosomes; their cellular apices containing polyribosomes and a few vesicles frequently protrude into the ventricle. In addition to astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglial cells, there is another glial cell population that is distinguished by the presence of parallel stacks or spherical to ovoid conglomerates of rough ER and their unique location, i.e., limited to areas ventral and ventral-lateral to the large blood sinus. Two types of neurons are present: neurons in which there is a paucity of granulated vesicles and occasional vacuoles in both the cytoplasm and nuclei, the second type of neuron elaborates many granulated vesicles. Numerous puncta adhaerentia are observed between adjacent neuronal perikarya and between glial processes and neuronal perikarya. Diverse axon types are found within the chicken SFO. Axo-dendritic and axo-somatic axon terminals and presynaptic axon dilations contain assorted combinations of electron-lucent and granulated vesicles of different maximal diameters. Based on the morphology of these axons, cholinergic, peptidergic, and serotoninergic fibers are described. There are two additional groups of axons whose classification awaits further investigation. The chicken SFO differs from the mammalian SFO in several respects: it possesses an ependyma with secretory and/or absorptive tanycytes predominating; it is divided midsagittally by a central blood sinus; its lateral and dorsal limits are nebulous; a previously undescribed peculiar type of glial cell is found in a limited portion of the organ; supraependymal neurons are lacking.", "PMID": 455397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11651", "title": "Fluorescent histochemistry of the teleost gut: evidence for the presence of serotonergic neurones.", "content": "The guts of the teleosts Myoxocephalus scorpius, Pleuronectes platessa and Clupea harengus were examined using fluorescent histochemistry and the innervation compared to that in mammals and other lower vertebrates. In Myoxocephalus and Pleuronectes both greeen and yellow fast fading fluorescent nerves were found in the intestine. To test whether the yellow nerves might be serotonergic, an attempt was made to extract 5-HT from the intestine of these fish in a region where enterochromaffin cells were absent. Chromatography of extracts showed the presence of 5-HT, and, in Myoxocephalus, dopamine.", "contents": "Fluorescent histochemistry of the teleost gut: evidence for the presence of serotonergic neurones. The guts of the teleosts Myoxocephalus scorpius, Pleuronectes platessa and Clupea harengus were examined using fluorescent histochemistry and the innervation compared to that in mammals and other lower vertebrates. In Myoxocephalus and Pleuronectes both greeen and yellow fast fading fluorescent nerves were found in the intestine. To test whether the yellow nerves might be serotonergic, an attempt was made to extract 5-HT from the intestine of these fish in a region where enterochromaffin cells were absent. Chromatography of extracts showed the presence of 5-HT, and, in Myoxocephalus, dopamine.", "PMID": 455398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11652", "title": "Early detection of inherited muscular dystrophy in chickens.", "content": "New Hampshire chickens, homozygous for inherited muscular dystrophy, display clinical manifestations at an early age. A fine structural examination of embryos from this strain shows marked degenerative changes four days prior to hatching. The Z bands appear to dissolve progressively to the point where finally the myofibrils become uniformly dense with no detectable banding patterns.", "contents": "Early detection of inherited muscular dystrophy in chickens. New Hampshire chickens, homozygous for inherited muscular dystrophy, display clinical manifestations at an early age. A fine structural examination of embryos from this strain shows marked degenerative changes four days prior to hatching. The Z bands appear to dissolve progressively to the point where finally the myofibrils become uniformly dense with no detectable banding patterns.", "PMID": 455399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11653", "title": "Scanning electron microscopic analysis of the linings of the fourth ventricle in the domestic fowl.", "content": "Surface features of the ependymal linings of the fourth ventricle in the fowl were analyzed employing the scanning electron microscope (SEM). On the floor of the median sulcus, each ependymal cell has a solitary cilium, whereas on both sides of the sulcus, cilia are so densely distributed that the details of the underlying cell surface are usually obscured. On the roof of the fourth ventricle, except for the surface of the ciliated groove where numerous cilia are present, the ependymal cells are polygonal in shape, and the center of each cell possesses an aggregate of ten to twenty cilia. Cell surfaces of the choroid tela are entirely covered with delicate microvilli and possess clumped cilia. The ependymal cell surfaces of the area postrema are dome-like in shape. Each ependymal cell has a solitary cilium and shows a smooth surface free of microvilli.", "contents": "Scanning electron microscopic analysis of the linings of the fourth ventricle in the domestic fowl. Surface features of the ependymal linings of the fourth ventricle in the fowl were analyzed employing the scanning electron microscope (SEM). On the floor of the median sulcus, each ependymal cell has a solitary cilium, whereas on both sides of the sulcus, cilia are so densely distributed that the details of the underlying cell surface are usually obscured. On the roof of the fourth ventricle, except for the surface of the ciliated groove where numerous cilia are present, the ependymal cells are polygonal in shape, and the center of each cell possesses an aggregate of ten to twenty cilia. Cell surfaces of the choroid tela are entirely covered with delicate microvilli and possess clumped cilia. The ependymal cell surfaces of the area postrema are dome-like in shape. Each ependymal cell has a solitary cilium and shows a smooth surface free of microvilli.", "PMID": 455400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11654", "title": "The organization of the lamina ganglionaris of the hemipteran insects, Notonecta glauca, Corixa punctata and Gerris lacustris.", "content": "Neuronal elements, i.e. first and second order neurons, of the first optic ganglion of three waterbugs, N. glauca, C. punctata and G. lacustris, are analyzed on the basis of light- and electron microscopy. Eight retinula cell axons, leaving each ommatidium, disperse to different cartridges as they enter the laminar outer plexiform layer. Such a pattern of divergence is one of the conditions for neuronal superposition; it is observed for all three species of waterbugs. The manner in which the receptors of a single bundle of ommatidia split of within the lamina, whereby information from receptors up to three or five horizontal rows away can converge upon the same cartridge, differs among the species. Six of the eight axons of retinula cells R1--6, the short visual fibers end at different levels within the bilayered lamina, whereas the central pair of retinula cells R7/8, the long visual fibers, run directly through the lamina to a corresponding unit of the medulla. Four types of monopolar cells L1-L4 are classified; their branching patterns seem to be correlated to the splitting and termination of retinula cell axons. The topographical relationship and synaptic organization between retinula cell terminals and monopolar cells in the two laminar layers are identified by examination of serial ultrathin sections of single Golgi-stained neurons. An attempt is made to correlate some anatomical findings, especially the neuronal superposition, to results from physiological investigations on the hemipteran retina.", "contents": "The organization of the lamina ganglionaris of the hemipteran insects, Notonecta glauca, Corixa punctata and Gerris lacustris. Neuronal elements, i.e. first and second order neurons, of the first optic ganglion of three waterbugs, N. glauca, C. punctata and G. lacustris, are analyzed on the basis of light- and electron microscopy. Eight retinula cell axons, leaving each ommatidium, disperse to different cartridges as they enter the laminar outer plexiform layer. Such a pattern of divergence is one of the conditions for neuronal superposition; it is observed for all three species of waterbugs. The manner in which the receptors of a single bundle of ommatidia split of within the lamina, whereby information from receptors up to three or five horizontal rows away can converge upon the same cartridge, differs among the species. Six of the eight axons of retinula cells R1--6, the short visual fibers end at different levels within the bilayered lamina, whereas the central pair of retinula cells R7/8, the long visual fibers, run directly through the lamina to a corresponding unit of the medulla. Four types of monopolar cells L1-L4 are classified; their branching patterns seem to be correlated to the splitting and termination of retinula cell axons. The topographical relationship and synaptic organization between retinula cell terminals and monopolar cells in the two laminar layers are identified by examination of serial ultrathin sections of single Golgi-stained neurons. An attempt is made to correlate some anatomical findings, especially the neuronal superposition, to results from physiological investigations on the hemipteran retina.", "PMID": 455401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11655", "title": "Unusual granules in the ejaculatory duct of a Microphthalmus species (Polychaeta, Annelida).", "content": "The paired prominent ejaculatory ducts of the hermaphroditic polychaete Microphthalmus cf. listensis are surrounded by gland cells the processes of which penetrate the ducts themselves. These cells produce, in separate regions, two different types of spherical granules. Type I is composed of an electron dense and an electron lucent part. Type II granules contain a tubular filament that forms a single or double spiral in the periphery of a more or less unstructured electron dense material. Golgi vesicles give rise to this granule type. During the passage of sperm, these granules are obviously discharged into the lumen of the duct. Here they change form and probably dissolve. Their function is as yet unknown; capacitation of sperm is assumed.", "contents": "Unusual granules in the ejaculatory duct of a Microphthalmus species (Polychaeta, Annelida). The paired prominent ejaculatory ducts of the hermaphroditic polychaete Microphthalmus cf. listensis are surrounded by gland cells the processes of which penetrate the ducts themselves. These cells produce, in separate regions, two different types of spherical granules. Type I is composed of an electron dense and an electron lucent part. Type II granules contain a tubular filament that forms a single or double spiral in the periphery of a more or less unstructured electron dense material. Golgi vesicles give rise to this granule type. During the passage of sperm, these granules are obviously discharged into the lumen of the duct. Here they change form and probably dissolve. Their function is as yet unknown; capacitation of sperm is assumed.", "PMID": 455402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11656", "title": "Lysosomal breakdown of erythrocytes in the sheep placenta. An ultrastructural study.", "content": "The breakdown of erythrocytes within the lysosomal apparatus of trophoblastic epithelial cells of the sheep placenta was studied at the ultrastructural level. Acid phosphatase activity could be demonstrated in the interspace between the erythrocyte membrane and the lysosomal membrane, but not inside ingested erythrocytes. The erythrocyte plasma membrane remained observable until the final stage of the breakdown process. Together with a peripheral layer of indigestible hemoglobin it might form a barrier for further penetration of lysosomal enzymes into the ingested erythrocyte. The hemoglobin of the erythrocyte is suggested to diffuse through the erythrocyte plasma membrane into the interspace between this membrane and the lysosomal membrane. Subsequently, the hemoglobin is digested in the interspace or in fragments pinched off from erythrocyte-containing lysosomes (= erythrolysosomes). The fragmentation of erythrolysosomes is considered to be the most efficient mechanism for the breakdown of red blood cells in the trophoblastic epithelium of the sheep placenta. The method of entry of hydrolytic enzymes into erythrocyte-containing phagosomes is discussed.", "contents": "Lysosomal breakdown of erythrocytes in the sheep placenta. An ultrastructural study. The breakdown of erythrocytes within the lysosomal apparatus of trophoblastic epithelial cells of the sheep placenta was studied at the ultrastructural level. Acid phosphatase activity could be demonstrated in the interspace between the erythrocyte membrane and the lysosomal membrane, but not inside ingested erythrocytes. The erythrocyte plasma membrane remained observable until the final stage of the breakdown process. Together with a peripheral layer of indigestible hemoglobin it might form a barrier for further penetration of lysosomal enzymes into the ingested erythrocyte. The hemoglobin of the erythrocyte is suggested to diffuse through the erythrocyte plasma membrane into the interspace between this membrane and the lysosomal membrane. Subsequently, the hemoglobin is digested in the interspace or in fragments pinched off from erythrocyte-containing lysosomes (= erythrolysosomes). The fragmentation of erythrolysosomes is considered to be the most efficient mechanism for the breakdown of red blood cells in the trophoblastic epithelium of the sheep placenta. The method of entry of hydrolytic enzymes into erythrocyte-containing phagosomes is discussed.", "PMID": 455403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11657", "title": "The differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas. I. Fine structure.", "content": "The morphological changes occurring in monocytes during their differentiation into macrophages, epithelioid cells, Langhans-type giant cells, and foreign-body-type giant cells were investigated in foreign-body granulomas induced by subcutaneous implantation of pieces of Melinex plastic. Analysis based on Adams's (1974) criteria for discrimination between the several types of cell of the monocyte line, showed that each type has a characteristic type of granule. Primary and secondary granules, numerous in the Golgi area of monocytes were generally found close to the cell membrane and decreased in number in maturing macrophages. This was accompanied by an increase in the number of microtubules. Mature macrophages show numerous characteristic macrophage granules, which are round (average diameter: 280 nm) and have a halo between the limiting membrane and granular matrix. Mature epithelioid cells have characteristic epithelioid cell granules, and multinucleated giant cells a heterogenous population of granules. Fusing macrophages generally have their Golgi areas facing each other, and also show a reduced thickness of the cell coat. The morphology of the multinucleated giant cell is closely related to the number of nuclei present. In Langhans-type giant cells, which generally have two to ten nuclei, a giant centrosphere with numerous aggregated centrioles is found. In transition forms between Langhans-type and foreign-body-type giant cells, which generally contain 10--30 nuclei, the centrioles show less aggregation. In the foreign-body-type giant cells, which generally have more than 30 nuclei, centrioles are virtually absent and never aggregated. These differences between the Langhans-type giant cells, the foreign-body-type giant cells, and the transition forms, support our previous finding that Langhans-type giant cells are the precursors of foreign-body-type giant cells.", "contents": "The differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas. I. Fine structure. The morphological changes occurring in monocytes during their differentiation into macrophages, epithelioid cells, Langhans-type giant cells, and foreign-body-type giant cells were investigated in foreign-body granulomas induced by subcutaneous implantation of pieces of Melinex plastic. Analysis based on Adams's (1974) criteria for discrimination between the several types of cell of the monocyte line, showed that each type has a characteristic type of granule. Primary and secondary granules, numerous in the Golgi area of monocytes were generally found close to the cell membrane and decreased in number in maturing macrophages. This was accompanied by an increase in the number of microtubules. Mature macrophages show numerous characteristic macrophage granules, which are round (average diameter: 280 nm) and have a halo between the limiting membrane and granular matrix. Mature epithelioid cells have characteristic epithelioid cell granules, and multinucleated giant cells a heterogenous population of granules. Fusing macrophages generally have their Golgi areas facing each other, and also show a reduced thickness of the cell coat. The morphology of the multinucleated giant cell is closely related to the number of nuclei present. In Langhans-type giant cells, which generally have two to ten nuclei, a giant centrosphere with numerous aggregated centrioles is found. In transition forms between Langhans-type and foreign-body-type giant cells, which generally contain 10--30 nuclei, the centrioles show less aggregation. In the foreign-body-type giant cells, which generally have more than 30 nuclei, centrioles are virtually absent and never aggregated. These differences between the Langhans-type giant cells, the foreign-body-type giant cells, and the transition forms, support our previous finding that Langhans-type giant cells are the precursors of foreign-body-type giant cells.", "PMID": 455404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11658", "title": "The differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas. II. Peroxidatic activity.", "content": "The peroxidatic (PO) activity of monocytes differentiating into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas was investigated with three different media for the demonstration of PO activity. Irrespective of the stage of differentiation, these cells did not show PO activity in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) or nuclear envelope. In addition, it was found that the morphologically characteristic types of granule of the various cells of the monocyte line (the primary granules and secondary granules of monocytes, the macrophage granules, and the epithelioid cell granules), all have distinct cytochemical characteristics. Monocytes lose their primary and secondary granules during differentiation into mature macrophages. Simultaneously, the granules of both types become elongated and the secondary granule lose their halo. In contrast to monocytes, mature macrophages may contain a few microperoxisomes. During the differentiation of macrophages into epithelioid cells or multinucleated giant cells there is an increase in the number of microperoxisomes.", "contents": "The differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas. II. Peroxidatic activity. The peroxidatic (PO) activity of monocytes differentiating into macrophages, epithelioid cells, and multinucleated giant cells in subcutaneous granulomas was investigated with three different media for the demonstration of PO activity. Irrespective of the stage of differentiation, these cells did not show PO activity in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) or nuclear envelope. In addition, it was found that the morphologically characteristic types of granule of the various cells of the monocyte line (the primary granules and secondary granules of monocytes, the macrophage granules, and the epithelioid cell granules), all have distinct cytochemical characteristics. Monocytes lose their primary and secondary granules during differentiation into mature macrophages. Simultaneously, the granules of both types become elongated and the secondary granule lose their halo. In contrast to monocytes, mature macrophages may contain a few microperoxisomes. During the differentiation of macrophages into epithelioid cells or multinucleated giant cells there is an increase in the number of microperoxisomes.", "PMID": 455405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11659", "title": "Comparative study on peroxidatic activity in inflammatory cells on cutaneous and peritoneal implants.", "content": "Inflammatory reactions were evoked by simultaneous implantation of pieces of Melinex plastic in the subcutaneous tissue of the dorsum and in the peritoneal cavity of rats. The cellular composition of the Melinex-adherent cells and their peroxidatic (PO) activity were investigated in relation to the duration of implantation. Several striking differences were found between the subcutaneous and peritoneal implants. On the 7th and 14th days, multinucleated giant cells were abundantly present on the subcutaneous implants, whereas they were relatively rare on the peritoneal implants. The subcutaneous implants bore no mast cells and only a few eosinophilic granulocytes, but both types of cell were observed frequently on the peritoneal implants. Macrophages and multinucleated giant cells on the subcutaneous implants show PO activity only in the granules are PO negative. On the peritoneal implants three types of macrophages can be dintinguished: exudate macrophages which have PO activity restricted to granules or are PO-negative; macrophages with PO activity in granules and both the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and nuclear envelope; and resident macrophages with PO activity only in the RER and nuclear envelope. In addition, two types of multinucleated giant cells are found, one with and the other without PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope. Multinucleated giant cells with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope as well as exudate macrophages with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope were mainly found 32 h and 3 days after implantation of the Melinex in the peritoneal cavity. These findings are discussed in the light of current knowledge of the PO activity in macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. It is concluded that the appearance of PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope of exudate macrophages and multinucleated giant cells is in all probability a transient phenomenon, and that there is no objective evidence to support the opinion that exudate macrophages with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope are transitional cells between exudate and resident macrophages.", "contents": "Comparative study on peroxidatic activity in inflammatory cells on cutaneous and peritoneal implants. Inflammatory reactions were evoked by simultaneous implantation of pieces of Melinex plastic in the subcutaneous tissue of the dorsum and in the peritoneal cavity of rats. The cellular composition of the Melinex-adherent cells and their peroxidatic (PO) activity were investigated in relation to the duration of implantation. Several striking differences were found between the subcutaneous and peritoneal implants. On the 7th and 14th days, multinucleated giant cells were abundantly present on the subcutaneous implants, whereas they were relatively rare on the peritoneal implants. The subcutaneous implants bore no mast cells and only a few eosinophilic granulocytes, but both types of cell were observed frequently on the peritoneal implants. Macrophages and multinucleated giant cells on the subcutaneous implants show PO activity only in the granules are PO negative. On the peritoneal implants three types of macrophages can be dintinguished: exudate macrophages which have PO activity restricted to granules or are PO-negative; macrophages with PO activity in granules and both the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and nuclear envelope; and resident macrophages with PO activity only in the RER and nuclear envelope. In addition, two types of multinucleated giant cells are found, one with and the other without PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope. Multinucleated giant cells with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope as well as exudate macrophages with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope were mainly found 32 h and 3 days after implantation of the Melinex in the peritoneal cavity. These findings are discussed in the light of current knowledge of the PO activity in macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. It is concluded that the appearance of PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope of exudate macrophages and multinucleated giant cells is in all probability a transient phenomenon, and that there is no objective evidence to support the opinion that exudate macrophages with PO activity in the RER and nuclear envelope are transitional cells between exudate and resident macrophages.", "PMID": 455406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11660", "title": "A correlated scanning and transmission electron microscopic study of maturation ameloblasts in developing molar teeth of rats.", "content": "Maturation ameloblasts of developing molar teeth of the rate were studied by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. After fixation, teeth were frozen and split. One face of the fractured tooth was used for SEM, the other for TEM. It was found that in some regions proximal junctional complexes separate the interameloblast space from the intercellular space of the papillary layer. Thereby an intercellular ameloblastic compartment is delineated which in some specimens contains a substance interpreted to be colloidal. Elsewhere the proximal junctions of ameloblasts are not present and free communication between the extracellular spaces is evident. The apical pole of ameloblasts varies in structure. Over some areas there is a distinct distal border zone with membranous infoldings which in some regions resembles a striated or ruffled border, but in other regions the membranes show whorl configurations. The distal border zone also contains granules with flocculent material. Elsewhere the ameloblasts display no distal border zone and the cells show a smooth membrane (except for pinocytotic vesicles and hemidesmosomes) facing the enamel surface. The lateral surface of ameloblasts exhibits a variety of surface configurations similar to but not as pronounced as those reported previously in rat incisor maturation ameloblasts.", "contents": "A correlated scanning and transmission electron microscopic study of maturation ameloblasts in developing molar teeth of rats. Maturation ameloblasts of developing molar teeth of the rate were studied by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. After fixation, teeth were frozen and split. One face of the fractured tooth was used for SEM, the other for TEM. It was found that in some regions proximal junctional complexes separate the interameloblast space from the intercellular space of the papillary layer. Thereby an intercellular ameloblastic compartment is delineated which in some specimens contains a substance interpreted to be colloidal. Elsewhere the proximal junctions of ameloblasts are not present and free communication between the extracellular spaces is evident. The apical pole of ameloblasts varies in structure. Over some areas there is a distinct distal border zone with membranous infoldings which in some regions resembles a striated or ruffled border, but in other regions the membranes show whorl configurations. The distal border zone also contains granules with flocculent material. Elsewhere the ameloblasts display no distal border zone and the cells show a smooth membrane (except for pinocytotic vesicles and hemidesmosomes) facing the enamel surface. The lateral surface of ameloblasts exhibits a variety of surface configurations similar to but not as pronounced as those reported previously in rat incisor maturation ameloblasts.", "PMID": 455407} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11661", "title": "Freeze-fracture study of the chromaffin cell during exocytosis: evidence for connections between the plasma membrane and secretory granules and for movements of plasma membrane-associated particles.", "content": "Exocytosis was studied in acetylcholine-stimulated bovine adrenal medulla. During a pre-exocytotic stage, chromaffin granules are found in juxtaposition to the plasma membrane and separated from it by an electron dense space 25--27 A in width. Freeze-fracture studies show this stage to be characterized by connections between the granules and the plasma membrane. These connections are apparently cytoplasmic but bridge both membranes; they are presumably proteinaceous, but their exact nature remains to be elucidated. Later stages of exocytosis were also studied by the freeze-fracture technique; a typical feature is the lack of intramembrane particles around the fusion site. Both connections and membrane particle movement are discussed in terms of recent biochemical findings.", "contents": "Freeze-fracture study of the chromaffin cell during exocytosis: evidence for connections between the plasma membrane and secretory granules and for movements of plasma membrane-associated particles. Exocytosis was studied in acetylcholine-stimulated bovine adrenal medulla. During a pre-exocytotic stage, chromaffin granules are found in juxtaposition to the plasma membrane and separated from it by an electron dense space 25--27 A in width. Freeze-fracture studies show this stage to be characterized by connections between the granules and the plasma membrane. These connections are apparently cytoplasmic but bridge both membranes; they are presumably proteinaceous, but their exact nature remains to be elucidated. Later stages of exocytosis were also studied by the freeze-fracture technique; a typical feature is the lack of intramembrane particles around the fusion site. Both connections and membrane particle movement are discussed in terms of recent biochemical findings.", "PMID": 455408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11662", "title": "Physiological cell death of secretory ameloblasts in the rat incisor.", "content": "The migration of the ameloblasts in the continuously erupting incisors of the rat is accompanied by cell loss. Ameloblasts degenerate near the mesial and lateral cemento-enamel junctions in the secretory zone and in the middle two thirds of the region of postsecretory transition, degeneration being most marked where these areas merge. These findings support the hypothesis that the prism decussation in the enamel results from alternating transverse rows of secretory ameloblasts sliding past each other whilst elaborating their rods. The distribution of the degenerating cells suggests, however, that the sliding cell rows are not exactly transverse but arcuate, with the opening facing incisally. The progress of structural alterations of the nuclei in the degenerating ameloblasts appears to follow the pattern earlier described in vinblastine-damaged ameloblasts.", "contents": "Physiological cell death of secretory ameloblasts in the rat incisor. The migration of the ameloblasts in the continuously erupting incisors of the rat is accompanied by cell loss. Ameloblasts degenerate near the mesial and lateral cemento-enamel junctions in the secretory zone and in the middle two thirds of the region of postsecretory transition, degeneration being most marked where these areas merge. These findings support the hypothesis that the prism decussation in the enamel results from alternating transverse rows of secretory ameloblasts sliding past each other whilst elaborating their rods. The distribution of the degenerating cells suggests, however, that the sliding cell rows are not exactly transverse but arcuate, with the opening facing incisally. The progress of structural alterations of the nuclei in the degenerating ameloblasts appears to follow the pattern earlier described in vinblastine-damaged ameloblasts.", "PMID": 455409} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11663", "title": "Effects of caffeine and D2O on persistence and de novo generation of intrinsic oscillatory contraction automaticity in Physarum.", "content": "The present investigation was performed in an attempt to contribute to answering the question whether the plasmalemma of the plasmodial stage of Physarum represents the site of a trigger mechanism for the oscillating contraction activity of cytoplasmic actomyosin. The effects of the following substances on persistence of tensiometrically measured longitudinal and radial activities of Physarum veins and on de novo generation of activities in experimentally generated drops were studied: caffeine, theophylline, acetylcholinium chloride, procaine, physostigminium salicylate, iso-ompa, nifedipin, sodium nitroprusside, potassium thiocyanate, D2O; as well as the effects of ions such as La+++ and high outer concentrations of Na+ and K+. Some of the substances were applied simultaneously for comparison externally (by bathing solutions) and internally (by injection). The experimental data speak against the existence of electrogenic rhythmical Ca++, Na+ or K+ pumps across the plasmalemma which could have a triggering function for the oscillation. The contraction activities of the cytoplasmic actomyosin seem to represent a spontaneous endogeneous oscillation which can be modulated via the plasmalemma during chemotaxis.", "contents": "Effects of caffeine and D2O on persistence and de novo generation of intrinsic oscillatory contraction automaticity in Physarum. The present investigation was performed in an attempt to contribute to answering the question whether the plasmalemma of the plasmodial stage of Physarum represents the site of a trigger mechanism for the oscillating contraction activity of cytoplasmic actomyosin. The effects of the following substances on persistence of tensiometrically measured longitudinal and radial activities of Physarum veins and on de novo generation of activities in experimentally generated drops were studied: caffeine, theophylline, acetylcholinium chloride, procaine, physostigminium salicylate, iso-ompa, nifedipin, sodium nitroprusside, potassium thiocyanate, D2O; as well as the effects of ions such as La+++ and high outer concentrations of Na+ and K+. Some of the substances were applied simultaneously for comparison externally (by bathing solutions) and internally (by injection). The experimental data speak against the existence of electrogenic rhythmical Ca++, Na+ or K+ pumps across the plasmalemma which could have a triggering function for the oscillation. The contraction activities of the cytoplasmic actomyosin seem to represent a spontaneous endogeneous oscillation which can be modulated via the plasmalemma during chemotaxis.", "PMID": 455411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11664", "title": "The juxtaligamental cells of Ophiocomina nigra (Abildgaard) (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) and their possible role in mechano-effector function of collagenous tissue.", "content": "The intervertebral ligament of the brittlestar Ophiocomina nigra contains numerous cellular processes which belong to perikarya located on the outer surfaces of the ligament. These are described as the juxtaligamental cells and have been studied by light and electron microscopy. The cells are mainly concentrated in four pairs of ganglion-like nodes associated with the intervertebral ligament and in similar nodes adjacent to every other major connective tissue component of the arm. Although their histochemistry and ultrastructure indicate a neurosecretory function, they are anomalous in containing unusually large electron-dense granules probably associated with calcium. The ganglion-like nodes are innervated by hyponeural nerves, though synaptic contacts with the juxtaligamental cells have yet to be demonstrated. The function of the cells is discussed and it is suggested that they may be involved in the rapid loss of tensil strength which the intervertebral ligament sustains during arm autotomy. They may achieve this by controlling the availability of Ca2+ ions to the extracellular compartment of the ligament.", "contents": "The juxtaligamental cells of Ophiocomina nigra (Abildgaard) (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) and their possible role in mechano-effector function of collagenous tissue. The intervertebral ligament of the brittlestar Ophiocomina nigra contains numerous cellular processes which belong to perikarya located on the outer surfaces of the ligament. These are described as the juxtaligamental cells and have been studied by light and electron microscopy. The cells are mainly concentrated in four pairs of ganglion-like nodes associated with the intervertebral ligament and in similar nodes adjacent to every other major connective tissue component of the arm. Although their histochemistry and ultrastructure indicate a neurosecretory function, they are anomalous in containing unusually large electron-dense granules probably associated with calcium. The ganglion-like nodes are innervated by hyponeural nerves, though synaptic contacts with the juxtaligamental cells have yet to be demonstrated. The function of the cells is discussed and it is suggested that they may be involved in the rapid loss of tensil strength which the intervertebral ligament sustains during arm autotomy. They may achieve this by controlling the availability of Ca2+ ions to the extracellular compartment of the ligament.", "PMID": 455412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11665", "title": "Autoradiographic studies of a glucocorticoid agonist and antagonist: localization of 3H-corticosterone and 3H-cortexolone in mouse brain.", "content": "The localization in the mouse brain of corticosterone, the natural glucocorticoid in the mouse, and cortexolone, reported to be a glucocorticoid antagonist, was studied by autoradiography 30 min after in vivo administration of the tritiated compounds. After 3H-corticosterone (3HB) injection, radioactivity was preferentially concentrated in cell nuclei of several structures within the limbic system, and in nuclei of certain neurones of the cerebral cortex and medullar oblongata. This nuclear concentration was abolished after injection of 3H-corticosterone with an excess of unlabelled corticosterone. After 3H-cortexolone (3HS) injection, a diffuse radioactivity was observed throughout the brain. However, a higher concentration of grains was present in the ventral nucleus arcuatus and in the infundibulum. When excess unlabelled cortexolone was administered with 3H-cortexolone this preferential accumulation of grains was abolished. The accumulation of 3H-cortexolone in the medial basal hypothalamic region suggests that cortexolone concentrates preferentially in dexamethasone (DM) target regions, and in addition the autoradiographic results show that the cortexolone-receptor complex does not accumulate in the cell nucleus.", "contents": "Autoradiographic studies of a glucocorticoid agonist and antagonist: localization of 3H-corticosterone and 3H-cortexolone in mouse brain. The localization in the mouse brain of corticosterone, the natural glucocorticoid in the mouse, and cortexolone, reported to be a glucocorticoid antagonist, was studied by autoradiography 30 min after in vivo administration of the tritiated compounds. After 3H-corticosterone (3HB) injection, radioactivity was preferentially concentrated in cell nuclei of several structures within the limbic system, and in nuclei of certain neurones of the cerebral cortex and medullar oblongata. This nuclear concentration was abolished after injection of 3H-corticosterone with an excess of unlabelled corticosterone. After 3H-cortexolone (3HS) injection, a diffuse radioactivity was observed throughout the brain. However, a higher concentration of grains was present in the ventral nucleus arcuatus and in the infundibulum. When excess unlabelled cortexolone was administered with 3H-cortexolone this preferential accumulation of grains was abolished. The accumulation of 3H-cortexolone in the medial basal hypothalamic region suggests that cortexolone concentrates preferentially in dexamethasone (DM) target regions, and in addition the autoradiographic results show that the cortexolone-receptor complex does not accumulate in the cell nucleus.", "PMID": 455413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11666", "title": "Scanning electron microscopy of the ventricular surface of the paraventricular organ in the domestic fowl.", "content": "The ventricular surface of the paraventricular organ in the domestic fowl is covered with supraependymal fiber elements. These fibers from a dense network having a web-like appearance and a coarse network of fibers running over the ventricular surface. The dense, web-like networks are mainly distributed throughout the caudal region of this organ, whereas the course networks are observed in the rostral region. In addition to these structures, spherical bodies with diameters approximately 2.5 to 6 micron are also encountered.", "contents": "Scanning electron microscopy of the ventricular surface of the paraventricular organ in the domestic fowl. The ventricular surface of the paraventricular organ in the domestic fowl is covered with supraependymal fiber elements. These fibers from a dense network having a web-like appearance and a coarse network of fibers running over the ventricular surface. The dense, web-like networks are mainly distributed throughout the caudal region of this organ, whereas the course networks are observed in the rostral region. In addition to these structures, spherical bodies with diameters approximately 2.5 to 6 micron are also encountered.", "PMID": 455414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11667", "title": "The sensitivity of contrast echocardiography in detecting intracardiac shunts.", "content": "While contrast echocardiography has been shown to delineate intracardiac shunts, no information is available concerning the sensitivity of the method. This study establishes the relative sensitivity of the technique in detecting and localizing shunts by comparing the contrast echocardiograms with the simultaneously recorded cardiogreen dye curves in 26 children during cardiac catheterization. The echocardiograms substantiated isolated intracardiac shunting as small as 5%. There were no false-positive or false-negative echocardiograms in patients with or without shunt defects. This report demonstrates the contrast echocardiographic technique to be extremely sensitive in detecting intracardiac communications. It reviews the diagnostic patterns necessary for diagnosis and proposes the technique as a sensitive, safe, and accurate alternate method of study in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.", "contents": "The sensitivity of contrast echocardiography in detecting intracardiac shunts. While contrast echocardiography has been shown to delineate intracardiac shunts, no information is available concerning the sensitivity of the method. This study establishes the relative sensitivity of the technique in detecting and localizing shunts by comparing the contrast echocardiograms with the simultaneously recorded cardiogreen dye curves in 26 children during cardiac catheterization. The echocardiograms substantiated isolated intracardiac shunting as small as 5%. There were no false-positive or false-negative echocardiograms in patients with or without shunt defects. This report demonstrates the contrast echocardiographic technique to be extremely sensitive in detecting intracardiac communications. It reviews the diagnostic patterns necessary for diagnosis and proposes the technique as a sensitive, safe, and accurate alternate method of study in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.", "PMID": 455426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11668", "title": "The differential diagnosis of paracardiac lesions: pericardial cysts.", "content": "The differential diagnosis of paracardiac lesions includes pericardial cysts (PC), which are benign, developmental lesions. Patients with PC are usually asymptomatic, although chest pain or dyspnea may occur. The diagnosis may be established by chest roentgenogram (radiographic contour and location), fluoroscopy (changes in shape with respiration or positioning the patient), and echography (smooth, cystic contour and characteristic location). We present the diagnostic approach to patients with PC, and a review of the case histories of 12 patients with PC. Two symptomatic patients with PC were treated with surgical excision. Cyst aspiration in two patients yielded clear fluid and was initially considered therapeutic, but was followed by gradual reaccumulation of fluid. Six of ten asymptomatic patients followed for three to ten years did not develop symptoms, nor was there radiographic evidence of progressive PC enlargement. Three of ten died from unrelated causes during the follow-up period. Although symptomatic patients with PC may require surgical excision, asymptomatic patients with PC should be managed conservatively.", "contents": "The differential diagnosis of paracardiac lesions: pericardial cysts. The differential diagnosis of paracardiac lesions includes pericardial cysts (PC), which are benign, developmental lesions. Patients with PC are usually asymptomatic, although chest pain or dyspnea may occur. The diagnosis may be established by chest roentgenogram (radiographic contour and location), fluoroscopy (changes in shape with respiration or positioning the patient), and echography (smooth, cystic contour and characteristic location). We present the diagnostic approach to patients with PC, and a review of the case histories of 12 patients with PC. Two symptomatic patients with PC were treated with surgical excision. Cyst aspiration in two patients yielded clear fluid and was initially considered therapeutic, but was followed by gradual reaccumulation of fluid. Six of ten asymptomatic patients followed for three to ten years did not develop symptoms, nor was there radiographic evidence of progressive PC enlargement. Three of ten died from unrelated causes during the follow-up period. Although symptomatic patients with PC may require surgical excision, asymptomatic patients with PC should be managed conservatively.", "PMID": 455427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11669", "title": "Diagnosis of left atrial tumors by coronary angiography and left ventriculography.", "content": "The left ventriculograms and pulmonary and coronary angiograms of eight patients with left atrial (LA) tumors were reviewed. The patients' ages ranged from 52 to 65 years. In each case the tumor was outlined during left ventriculography. Coronary arteriography allowed visualization of tumor vessels in six cases (six of seven myxomas). Two of the patients had significant coronary obstructions. It is concluded that a left ventriculogram is a sensitive diagnostic test for the presence of LA tumors. Coronary arteriography is indicated in patients with LA tumors in this age group and is likely to provide independent evidence of the presence of an LA tumor.", "contents": "Diagnosis of left atrial tumors by coronary angiography and left ventriculography. The left ventriculograms and pulmonary and coronary angiograms of eight patients with left atrial (LA) tumors were reviewed. The patients' ages ranged from 52 to 65 years. In each case the tumor was outlined during left ventriculography. Coronary arteriography allowed visualization of tumor vessels in six cases (six of seven myxomas). Two of the patients had significant coronary obstructions. It is concluded that a left ventriculogram is a sensitive diagnostic test for the presence of LA tumors. Coronary arteriography is indicated in patients with LA tumors in this age group and is likely to provide independent evidence of the presence of an LA tumor.", "PMID": 455428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11670", "title": "Iliac venous thrombosis in infants and children after cardiac catheterization.", "content": "Twenty-two patients developed thrombosis of the lower abdominal portion of the inferior vena cava, iliac or femoral vein (IVT) after cardiac catheterization. All patients has at least one previous study from 1 day to 11 months of age (mean, 2 months) and seven had two catheterizations before discovery of IVT. Transposition of the great arteries was the most common defect associated with IVT (12/22, 55%). From one to seven catheter changes were made during the time of venous cannulation (mean, 105 minutes). No clinical evidence of IVT was present immediately after the preceding cardiac catheterization. The discovery of significant IVT usually necessitated the use of a vein from the upper extremity to complete the cardiac catheterization. IVT was associated with previous balloon atrial septostomy using either a Fogarty or Rashkind septostomy catheter in 13/22 patients (59%). In addition, 86% of the patients had either of these balloon catheters or a Swan-Ganz catheter used during a previous study. The potential development of IVT should be considered especially in cyanotic infants and small children in whom balloon catheters are used.", "contents": "Iliac venous thrombosis in infants and children after cardiac catheterization. Twenty-two patients developed thrombosis of the lower abdominal portion of the inferior vena cava, iliac or femoral vein (IVT) after cardiac catheterization. All patients has at least one previous study from 1 day to 11 months of age (mean, 2 months) and seven had two catheterizations before discovery of IVT. Transposition of the great arteries was the most common defect associated with IVT (12/22, 55%). From one to seven catheter changes were made during the time of venous cannulation (mean, 105 minutes). No clinical evidence of IVT was present immediately after the preceding cardiac catheterization. The discovery of significant IVT usually necessitated the use of a vein from the upper extremity to complete the cardiac catheterization. IVT was associated with previous balloon atrial septostomy using either a Fogarty or Rashkind septostomy catheter in 13/22 patients (59%). In addition, 86% of the patients had either of these balloon catheters or a Swan-Ganz catheter used during a previous study. The potential development of IVT should be considered especially in cyanotic infants and small children in whom balloon catheters are used.", "PMID": 455429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11671", "title": "Tricuspid regurgitation: clinical and angiographic assessment.", "content": "Because previous attempts to diagnose and quantitate tricuspid regurgitation (TR) by angiography have been unreliable, 60 patients with mitral or combined mitral and aortic valve disease had right ventriculography using a special preshaped catheter. A clinical diagnosis of TR was confirmed in 45% of the patients with moderate and severe TR. A pansystolic murmur increasing in intensity with inspiration, a pulsatile liver, and a prominent CV wave in the jugular veins when present together were specific for severe TR but were seen in only 30% of the patients with severe TR but were seen in only 30% of the patients with severe TR (3+ or 4+). Ventricularization of the right atrial pressure contour was specific for severe TR but was seen in only 40% of the patients with severe TR. A normal right atrial mean pressure (RAP) did not exclude TR, but a rise in RAP or an unchanged RAP with deep inspiration was seen in all patients with TR. Similar findings were observed in two patients with severe pulmonary hypertension who had no TR. There was no relation between the magnitude of this rise in RAP, the degree of pulmonary hypertension, and the severity of TR. The use of a special preshaped catheter tends to avoid the induction of premature beats, and right ventriculograms with a preshaped catheter may be useful in diagnosing TR.", "contents": "Tricuspid regurgitation: clinical and angiographic assessment. Because previous attempts to diagnose and quantitate tricuspid regurgitation (TR) by angiography have been unreliable, 60 patients with mitral or combined mitral and aortic valve disease had right ventriculography using a special preshaped catheter. A clinical diagnosis of TR was confirmed in 45% of the patients with moderate and severe TR. A pansystolic murmur increasing in intensity with inspiration, a pulsatile liver, and a prominent CV wave in the jugular veins when present together were specific for severe TR but were seen in only 30% of the patients with severe TR but were seen in only 30% of the patients with severe TR (3+ or 4+). Ventricularization of the right atrial pressure contour was specific for severe TR but was seen in only 40% of the patients with severe TR. A normal right atrial mean pressure (RAP) did not exclude TR, but a rise in RAP or an unchanged RAP with deep inspiration was seen in all patients with TR. Similar findings were observed in two patients with severe pulmonary hypertension who had no TR. There was no relation between the magnitude of this rise in RAP, the degree of pulmonary hypertension, and the severity of TR. The use of a special preshaped catheter tends to avoid the induction of premature beats, and right ventriculograms with a preshaped catheter may be useful in diagnosing TR.", "PMID": 455430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11672", "title": "Cor triatriatum with mitral regurgitation in a 52-year-old male.", "content": "The clinical, echocardiographic, and cineangiographic features of the oldest known living case of cor triatriatum are presented. Mitral regurgitation, also found in this patient, has been reported on only two previous occasions to coexist with other wise uncomplicated cor triatriatum. The value of two-dimensional echocardiography in the identification of this congenital anomaly is confirmed.", "contents": "Cor triatriatum with mitral regurgitation in a 52-year-old male. The clinical, echocardiographic, and cineangiographic features of the oldest known living case of cor triatriatum are presented. Mitral regurgitation, also found in this patient, has been reported on only two previous occasions to coexist with other wise uncomplicated cor triatriatum. The value of two-dimensional echocardiography in the identification of this congenital anomaly is confirmed.", "PMID": 455431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11673", "title": "The noninvasive assessment of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery.", "content": "We present a patient with anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. We correlate the findings of echocardiography and myocardial imaging with angiography, and discuss the value of the noninvasive techniques in the diagnosis and in the followup of such patients.", "contents": "The noninvasive assessment of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. We present a patient with anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. We correlate the findings of echocardiography and myocardial imaging with angiography, and discuss the value of the noninvasive techniques in the diagnosis and in the followup of such patients.", "PMID": 455432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11674", "title": "A simple, new system for maintaining measured quantities of saline cold and sterile for thermodilution cardiac output measurement.", "content": "A new, simple system for cooling and maintaining prefilled syringes of injectate in a dry, sterile environment for thermodilution cardiac output using a thermoelectric cold plate is described. Rates and uniformity of cooling were studied. Uniform cooling is achieved in about 60 minutes if refrigerated injectate is used.", "contents": "A simple, new system for maintaining measured quantities of saline cold and sterile for thermodilution cardiac output measurement. A new, simple system for cooling and maintaining prefilled syringes of injectate in a dry, sterile environment for thermodilution cardiac output using a thermoelectric cold plate is described. Rates and uniformity of cooling were studied. Uniform cooling is achieved in about 60 minutes if refrigerated injectate is used.", "PMID": 455433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11675", "title": "Multiple sites for the initiation of microtubule assembly in mammalian cells.", "content": "The pattern of microtubule regrowth in mammalian fibroblast and epithelial cells has been examined by immunofluorescence of cytoskeletal preparations with antibody to tubulin. After reversal of treatment with colcemid, vinblastine or low temperature, microtubules appear to grow simultaneously from several distinct initiation sites located within 5 microns of the nucleus of mouse and human fibroblasts. Each site initiates the growth of 10-30 microtubules. More than 70% of the mouse fibroblasts have between 5 and 10 initiation sites with an average of 8. The human fibroblasts have an average of 5 sites per cell. The average number and numerical distribution of sites per fibroblast cell are not affected by time of exposure to colcemid or the concentration of colcemid applied to the cells. Multiple microtubule initiation sites are also observed during the process of microtubule depolymerization. In addition to growth from these complex initiation sites, microtubules appear to grow singly from the perinuclear region of human fibroblasts. The regrowth of individual microtubules from the perinuclear growth is especially prominent in epithelial cell lines from rat kangaroo and pig. These epithelial lines have only a single complex initiation site per cell. Two classes of complex initiation sites can be distinguished in microtubule regrowth experiments in human and mouse fibroblasts after exposure to griseofulvin. Microtubules first grow extensively from a single distinct site, which has approximately 20 microtubules growing from it and may be the centriole or centriolar pair. Subsequently, microtubules regrow from other perinuclear complex initiation sites. It thus appears that at least three distinct classes of initiation sites can be observed in mammalian cells: primary sites, which regrow microtubules first after griseofulvin treatment; secondary sites, which are distinct perinuclear sites and recover from griseofulvin treatment more slowly than the primary sites; and tertiary sites or sites of growth of single microtubules, also located near the cell nucleus.", "contents": "Multiple sites for the initiation of microtubule assembly in mammalian cells. The pattern of microtubule regrowth in mammalian fibroblast and epithelial cells has been examined by immunofluorescence of cytoskeletal preparations with antibody to tubulin. After reversal of treatment with colcemid, vinblastine or low temperature, microtubules appear to grow simultaneously from several distinct initiation sites located within 5 microns of the nucleus of mouse and human fibroblasts. Each site initiates the growth of 10-30 microtubules. More than 70% of the mouse fibroblasts have between 5 and 10 initiation sites with an average of 8. The human fibroblasts have an average of 5 sites per cell. The average number and numerical distribution of sites per fibroblast cell are not affected by time of exposure to colcemid or the concentration of colcemid applied to the cells. Multiple microtubule initiation sites are also observed during the process of microtubule depolymerization. In addition to growth from these complex initiation sites, microtubules appear to grow singly from the perinuclear region of human fibroblasts. The regrowth of individual microtubules from the perinuclear growth is especially prominent in epithelial cell lines from rat kangaroo and pig. These epithelial lines have only a single complex initiation site per cell. Two classes of complex initiation sites can be distinguished in microtubule regrowth experiments in human and mouse fibroblasts after exposure to griseofulvin. Microtubules first grow extensively from a single distinct site, which has approximately 20 microtubules growing from it and may be the centriole or centriolar pair. Subsequently, microtubules regrow from other perinuclear complex initiation sites. It thus appears that at least three distinct classes of initiation sites can be observed in mammalian cells: primary sites, which regrow microtubules first after griseofulvin treatment; secondary sites, which are distinct perinuclear sites and recover from griseofulvin treatment more slowly than the primary sites; and tertiary sites or sites of growth of single microtubules, also located near the cell nucleus.", "PMID": 455434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11676", "title": "Aggregation of microtubule initiation sites preceding neurite outgrowth in mouse neuroblastoma cells.", "content": "By examining microtubule regrowth using immunofluorescence with antibody to tubulin, we have studied the structure and intracellular localization of microtubule initiation sites in undifferentiated and differentiated mouse neuroblastoma cells. The undifferentiated cells are round and lack cell processes. They contain an average of 12 initiation sites per cell. Each of these sites, which are located near the cell nucleus, initiates the growth of several microtubules in a radial formation. In contrast to the undifferentiated cells, neuroblastoma cells stimulated to differentiate by serum deprivation are asymmetrical, containing one or two very long neurites. These cells have a single, large microtubule initiation center which can be visualized not only by immunofluorescence but by phase-contrast and differential interference microscopy as well. The initiation site measures 3-4 mu in diameter and is located in the cell body along a line defined by the neurite. During cell differentiation, the large initiation, the large initiation center seems to be formed by the aggregation of many smaller sites. This process procedes neurite extension by about 24 hr. The growth of microtubules from this center appears to be highly oriented, since most microtubules initially grow into the neurite processes rather than into the cell interior. Thus major changes in the structure and location of microtubule initiation sites occur during the differentiation of neuroblastoma cells. Similar changes are likely to be involved in alterations in the morphology of other cell types.", "contents": "Aggregation of microtubule initiation sites preceding neurite outgrowth in mouse neuroblastoma cells. By examining microtubule regrowth using immunofluorescence with antibody to tubulin, we have studied the structure and intracellular localization of microtubule initiation sites in undifferentiated and differentiated mouse neuroblastoma cells. The undifferentiated cells are round and lack cell processes. They contain an average of 12 initiation sites per cell. Each of these sites, which are located near the cell nucleus, initiates the growth of several microtubules in a radial formation. In contrast to the undifferentiated cells, neuroblastoma cells stimulated to differentiate by serum deprivation are asymmetrical, containing one or two very long neurites. These cells have a single, large microtubule initiation center which can be visualized not only by immunofluorescence but by phase-contrast and differential interference microscopy as well. The initiation site measures 3-4 mu in diameter and is located in the cell body along a line defined by the neurite. During cell differentiation, the large initiation, the large initiation center seems to be formed by the aggregation of many smaller sites. This process procedes neurite extension by about 24 hr. The growth of microtubules from this center appears to be highly oriented, since most microtubules initially grow into the neurite processes rather than into the cell interior. Thus major changes in the structure and location of microtubule initiation sites occur during the differentiation of neuroblastoma cells. Similar changes are likely to be involved in alterations in the morphology of other cell types.", "PMID": 455435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11677", "title": "Binding of soluble type I collagen molecules to the fibroblast plasma membrane.", "content": "Soluble 125I-labeled type I collagen binds to cultured fibroblasts but not to cultured epithelia. The binding of the ligand to fibroblasts is reversible, saturable and highly specific for sequences contained within the helical portions of the alpha1 and alpha2 chains. The amount of ligand bound is dependent upon cell number and ligand concentration. Binding is decreased but measurable at 4 degrees C. The steady state binding is greater at 26 degrees than at 37 degrees C due to a more rapid dissociation of the ligand-acceptor complex at 37 degrees C. The half-life of the complex is 46 min at 37 degrees C and approximately 2.5 hr at 26 degrees C. Scatchard plots of binding data indicate a single class of high affinity binding sites (KD = 1.2 X 10(-11) M) with each fibroblast binding approximately 500,000 molecules at saturation. Pretreatment of fibroblasts with bacterial collagenase, chondroitinase ABC or testicular hyaluronidase does not affect the binding reaction, whereas pretreatment of the cells with phospholipase C increases the amount of ligand bound. Ligand binding is decreased but not abolished after fibroblasts are treated with trypsin concentrations which remove surface fibronectin. Fibroblast monolayers treated with antiserum against fibronectin bind the radiolabeled ligand normally. In contrast to collagen, addition of excess fibronectin does not accelerate the dissociation of bound ligand from fibroblasts. Possible functions for surface-bound collagen are discussed.", "contents": "Binding of soluble type I collagen molecules to the fibroblast plasma membrane. Soluble 125I-labeled type I collagen binds to cultured fibroblasts but not to cultured epithelia. The binding of the ligand to fibroblasts is reversible, saturable and highly specific for sequences contained within the helical portions of the alpha1 and alpha2 chains. The amount of ligand bound is dependent upon cell number and ligand concentration. Binding is decreased but measurable at 4 degrees C. The steady state binding is greater at 26 degrees than at 37 degrees C due to a more rapid dissociation of the ligand-acceptor complex at 37 degrees C. The half-life of the complex is 46 min at 37 degrees C and approximately 2.5 hr at 26 degrees C. Scatchard plots of binding data indicate a single class of high affinity binding sites (KD = 1.2 X 10(-11) M) with each fibroblast binding approximately 500,000 molecules at saturation. Pretreatment of fibroblasts with bacterial collagenase, chondroitinase ABC or testicular hyaluronidase does not affect the binding reaction, whereas pretreatment of the cells with phospholipase C increases the amount of ligand bound. Ligand binding is decreased but not abolished after fibroblasts are treated with trypsin concentrations which remove surface fibronectin. Fibroblast monolayers treated with antiserum against fibronectin bind the radiolabeled ligand normally. In contrast to collagen, addition of excess fibronectin does not accelerate the dissociation of bound ligand from fibroblasts. Possible functions for surface-bound collagen are discussed.", "PMID": 455436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11678", "title": "Restriction endonuclease cleavage of linear and closed circular murine leukemia viral DNAs: discovery of a smaller circular form.", "content": "Both linear (form III) and closed circular (form I) viral DNAs obtained from mouse cells infected with Moloney murine leukemia virus were cleaved by Sal I, Sma I, Bam HI and Pst I restriction endonucleases. DNA fragments generated by these cleavages were ordered with respect to the 5' and 3' ends of the RNA genome by several techniques, including comparisons of the DNA fragments from cleavages of the linear and closed circular forms, double digestions using different combinations of enzymes and the use of an RNA probe specific for the 3' end. DNA from Hirt extractions of infected cells yielded a discrete species of linear viral DNA whose size was determined by agarose gel electrophoresis to be 5.7 x 10(6) daltons. In the course of characterizing the closed circular DNA, we observed two form I DNA molecules. The larger molecule was the same size as the linear DNA. The second molecule migrated faster on agarose gels and was the predominant species of the two closed circular DNAs. Using the restriction endonuclease maps which we derived, we demonstrate that this novel form I DNA is a smaller homogeneous species of viral DNA, missing about 600 nucleotides found in the linear and larger closed circular DNA molecules. We have localized the site of this missing DNA piece to be at either one or both ends of the linear viral DNA.", "contents": "Restriction endonuclease cleavage of linear and closed circular murine leukemia viral DNAs: discovery of a smaller circular form. Both linear (form III) and closed circular (form I) viral DNAs obtained from mouse cells infected with Moloney murine leukemia virus were cleaved by Sal I, Sma I, Bam HI and Pst I restriction endonucleases. DNA fragments generated by these cleavages were ordered with respect to the 5' and 3' ends of the RNA genome by several techniques, including comparisons of the DNA fragments from cleavages of the linear and closed circular forms, double digestions using different combinations of enzymes and the use of an RNA probe specific for the 3' end. DNA from Hirt extractions of infected cells yielded a discrete species of linear viral DNA whose size was determined by agarose gel electrophoresis to be 5.7 x 10(6) daltons. In the course of characterizing the closed circular DNA, we observed two form I DNA molecules. The larger molecule was the same size as the linear DNA. The second molecule migrated faster on agarose gels and was the predominant species of the two closed circular DNAs. Using the restriction endonuclease maps which we derived, we demonstrate that this novel form I DNA is a smaller homogeneous species of viral DNA, missing about 600 nucleotides found in the linear and larger closed circular DNA molecules. We have localized the site of this missing DNA piece to be at either one or both ends of the linear viral DNA.", "PMID": 455438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11679", "title": "Structural analysis of the fibroin gene at the 5' end and its surrounding regions.", "content": "Using the genomic clones of the fibroin gene with its flanking sequences, a detailed restriction map was prepared with particular attention given to the region neighboring the 5' end of the gene. About 60% of the fibroin mRNA has a complete cap (m7GpppAmUmCXG), and the remaining 40% has an unmethylated cap (GpppAPyXXG). The latter can be radioactively labeled by the use of vaccinia capping enzymes. Using the labeled mRNA, we mapped the 5' end of the gene by hybridization to restriction enzyme digests. DNA sequencing of this region revealed a sequence ATCAGCATCAG that corresponds to ApyXXG in tandem. The 5' end of mRNA with a complete cap was also located in these 11 nucleotides. Since the second ATCAG region was protected from S1 digestion following hybridization with total fibroin mRNA, we have tentatively assigned it as the sole 5' end of the transcription unit. About 700 bp were sequenced in the region from -800 + 1700 bp. The region of about 210 bp preceding the 5' end of the gene which may accommodate a promoter sequence is very AT-rich and contains clusters of A and T residues. This region contains statistically significant dyad symmetries, direct repeats and inverted repeats. At -30 to -24, the sequence TATAAAA was observed, and this is similar to a Pribnow-type sequence (TATAGATG). The sequence that codes for the gly-ala repetitious peptide characteristic of fibroin begins somewhere between 1340 and 1600 bp from the 5' end. An intervening sequence of about 1.1 kb that interrupts the gene about 70 bp from the 5' end was detected by R loop formation. Structures of the fibroin gene cloned from fibroin producing and nonproducing cells look the same, especially around the 5' end and the intervening region.", "contents": "Structural analysis of the fibroin gene at the 5' end and its surrounding regions. Using the genomic clones of the fibroin gene with its flanking sequences, a detailed restriction map was prepared with particular attention given to the region neighboring the 5' end of the gene. About 60% of the fibroin mRNA has a complete cap (m7GpppAmUmCXG), and the remaining 40% has an unmethylated cap (GpppAPyXXG). The latter can be radioactively labeled by the use of vaccinia capping enzymes. Using the labeled mRNA, we mapped the 5' end of the gene by hybridization to restriction enzyme digests. DNA sequencing of this region revealed a sequence ATCAGCATCAG that corresponds to ApyXXG in tandem. The 5' end of mRNA with a complete cap was also located in these 11 nucleotides. Since the second ATCAG region was protected from S1 digestion following hybridization with total fibroin mRNA, we have tentatively assigned it as the sole 5' end of the transcription unit. About 700 bp were sequenced in the region from -800 + 1700 bp. The region of about 210 bp preceding the 5' end of the gene which may accommodate a promoter sequence is very AT-rich and contains clusters of A and T residues. This region contains statistically significant dyad symmetries, direct repeats and inverted repeats. At -30 to -24, the sequence TATAAAA was observed, and this is similar to a Pribnow-type sequence (TATAGATG). The sequence that codes for the gly-ala repetitious peptide characteristic of fibroin begins somewhere between 1340 and 1600 bp from the 5' end. An intervening sequence of about 1.1 kb that interrupts the gene about 70 bp from the 5' end was detected by R loop formation. Structures of the fibroin gene cloned from fibroin producing and nonproducing cells look the same, especially around the 5' end and the intervening region.", "PMID": 455439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11680", "title": "Structure of DNA within three isometric bacteriophages.", "content": "This paper describes a model for the structure of DNA contained in three morphologically similar bacteriophages--T7, P22 and phiCd-1--based on the transient electric dichroism of intact phage. The reduced dichroism of each of the phages at perfect orientation is within the range +0.12 to +0.19. Assuming that the phage orientation axis is that which passes from the apex through the tail, the measured dichroism suggests that DNA is wrapped in closely packed, co-axial solenoids with the axis of the solenoids tipped 43.5 degrees +/- 2.5 degrees from the orientation axis of the phage. All three phages show a large permanent dipole moment, with respective values of 5600, 200,000 and 500,000 Debye for T7, phiCd-1 and P22. The radius of the equivalent sphere for the three phages calculated from the rotational relaxation time for the rise of dichroism is in agreement with birefringence and electron microscope observations. The circular dichroism spectra of all three bacteriophages indicate that the local DNA helicity is similar in each case.", "contents": "Structure of DNA within three isometric bacteriophages. This paper describes a model for the structure of DNA contained in three morphologically similar bacteriophages--T7, P22 and phiCd-1--based on the transient electric dichroism of intact phage. The reduced dichroism of each of the phages at perfect orientation is within the range +0.12 to +0.19. Assuming that the phage orientation axis is that which passes from the apex through the tail, the measured dichroism suggests that DNA is wrapped in closely packed, co-axial solenoids with the axis of the solenoids tipped 43.5 degrees +/- 2.5 degrees from the orientation axis of the phage. All three phages show a large permanent dipole moment, with respective values of 5600, 200,000 and 500,000 Debye for T7, phiCd-1 and P22. The radius of the equivalent sphere for the three phages calculated from the rotational relaxation time for the rise of dichroism is in agreement with birefringence and electron microscope observations. The circular dichroism spectra of all three bacteriophages indicate that the local DNA helicity is similar in each case.", "PMID": 455440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11681", "title": "Vitellogenin in Xenopus laevis is encoded in a small family of genes.", "content": "Vitellogenin, the yolk protein precursor, is produced in X. laevis liver from a 6.3 kilobase (kb) mRNA. Sequences of this mRNA have been transcribed into cDNA and cloned in E. coli. Some properties of 21 of these cloned DNAs, ranging in size from 1 to 3.7 kb, have been reported by Wahli et al. (1978b). This paper reports restriction endonuclease mapping, cross hybridization, heteroduplex mapping in the electron microscope and heteroduplex melting experiments with these DNAs. We conclude that the cloned DNAs fall into two main groups of sequences which differ from each other in approximately 20% of their nucleotides. Each main group contains two subgroups which differ from each other by about 5% sequence divergence. By hybridizing cloned DNAs with restricted genomic DNA, we showed that sequences corresponding to all four sequence groups are present in a single animal. Furthermore, we have obtained tentative evidence for the presence of large intervening sequences in genomic vitellogenin DNA. Analysis of R loop molecules demonstrated that all four sequences are present in the vitellogenin mRNA population purified from individual animals. While some alternate explanations are not entirely excluded, we suggest that vitellogenin is encoded by a small family of related genes in Xenopus.", "contents": "Vitellogenin in Xenopus laevis is encoded in a small family of genes. Vitellogenin, the yolk protein precursor, is produced in X. laevis liver from a 6.3 kilobase (kb) mRNA. Sequences of this mRNA have been transcribed into cDNA and cloned in E. coli. Some properties of 21 of these cloned DNAs, ranging in size from 1 to 3.7 kb, have been reported by Wahli et al. (1978b). This paper reports restriction endonuclease mapping, cross hybridization, heteroduplex mapping in the electron microscope and heteroduplex melting experiments with these DNAs. We conclude that the cloned DNAs fall into two main groups of sequences which differ from each other in approximately 20% of their nucleotides. Each main group contains two subgroups which differ from each other by about 5% sequence divergence. By hybridizing cloned DNAs with restricted genomic DNA, we showed that sequences corresponding to all four sequence groups are present in a single animal. Furthermore, we have obtained tentative evidence for the presence of large intervening sequences in genomic vitellogenin DNA. Analysis of R loop molecules demonstrated that all four sequences are present in the vitellogenin mRNA population purified from individual animals. While some alternate explanations are not entirely excluded, we suggest that vitellogenin is encoded by a small family of related genes in Xenopus.", "PMID": 455441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11682", "title": "Deletion mutants of Xenopus laevis 5S ribosomal DNA.", "content": "Deletion mutants have been derived from a plasmid-cloned repeating unit of Xenopus laevis oocyte 5S DNA by introducing the transposable chloramphenicol-resistance element Tn9 into the AT-rich spacer sequence near the 5' terminus of the X. laevis 5S rRNA gene in a recombinant plasmid and then selecting plasmids which had lost the transposable element. Plasmids lacking the entire transposable element and various portions of the AT-rich spacer sequence flanking the original site of Tn9 integration have been obtained, and their ability to support transcription of the remaining X. laevis 5S rRNA gene has been tested in X. laevis oocyte nuclei. The deletion mutants analyzed in the present study retain the 49 nucleotide nonrepetitive sequence immediately adjacent to the 5' terminus of the gene, but lack as much as 80% of the repetitive AT-rich spacer sequence (Fedoroff and Brown, 1978). Such deletion mutants are fully active templates for 5S rRNA synthesis. This implies that the AT-rich spacer, which comprises half or more of each repeating unit in X. laevis oocyte 5S DNA, is relatively unimportant for correct initiation of transcription, and that if there are extragenic sequences with promoter function, they are likely to reside in the short nonrepetitive region immediately adjacent to the gene.", "contents": "Deletion mutants of Xenopus laevis 5S ribosomal DNA. Deletion mutants have been derived from a plasmid-cloned repeating unit of Xenopus laevis oocyte 5S DNA by introducing the transposable chloramphenicol-resistance element Tn9 into the AT-rich spacer sequence near the 5' terminus of the X. laevis 5S rRNA gene in a recombinant plasmid and then selecting plasmids which had lost the transposable element. Plasmids lacking the entire transposable element and various portions of the AT-rich spacer sequence flanking the original site of Tn9 integration have been obtained, and their ability to support transcription of the remaining X. laevis 5S rRNA gene has been tested in X. laevis oocyte nuclei. The deletion mutants analyzed in the present study retain the 49 nucleotide nonrepetitive sequence immediately adjacent to the 5' terminus of the gene, but lack as much as 80% of the repetitive AT-rich spacer sequence (Fedoroff and Brown, 1978). Such deletion mutants are fully active templates for 5S rRNA synthesis. This implies that the AT-rich spacer, which comprises half or more of each repeating unit in X. laevis oocyte 5S DNA, is relatively unimportant for correct initiation of transcription, and that if there are extragenic sequences with promoter function, they are likely to reside in the short nonrepetitive region immediately adjacent to the gene.", "PMID": 455442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11683", "title": "An intervening sequence in the gene coding for 25S ribosomal RNA of Tetrahymena pigmentosa.", "content": "An intervening sequence of approximately 400 bp has been discovered in the 25S ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) from macronuclei of Tetrahymena pigmentosa strain 6UM. Another strain, 8ALP, lacks the intervening sequence in its macronuclear rDNA. The presence of the intervening sequence was first suggested by a comparison of the restriction endonuclease maps of the rDNA from each strain. A region which differed in size between the two strains was shown to lie within the region coding for 25S ribosomal RNA by hybridization of the restriction fragments to labeled 25S rRNA. Direct visual evidence for the existence of the intervening sequence in 6UM and its absence from 8ALP was obtained by electron microscopy of R loop hybrids formed between the rDNA and 25S rRNA. The size and position of the intervening sequence within the gene were further defined by detailed restriction analyses of cloned fragments of the rDNA from each strain. The rDNA within the macronucleus of each of these strains is homogeneous, and thus the intervening sequence in the rDNA of strain 6UM must not interfere with transcription of the gene. Furthermore, the presence or absence of the intervening sequence has no obvious functional importance, since both strains can survive and grow equally well.", "contents": "An intervening sequence in the gene coding for 25S ribosomal RNA of Tetrahymena pigmentosa. An intervening sequence of approximately 400 bp has been discovered in the 25S ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) from macronuclei of Tetrahymena pigmentosa strain 6UM. Another strain, 8ALP, lacks the intervening sequence in its macronuclear rDNA. The presence of the intervening sequence was first suggested by a comparison of the restriction endonuclease maps of the rDNA from each strain. A region which differed in size between the two strains was shown to lie within the region coding for 25S ribosomal RNA by hybridization of the restriction fragments to labeled 25S rRNA. Direct visual evidence for the existence of the intervening sequence in 6UM and its absence from 8ALP was obtained by electron microscopy of R loop hybrids formed between the rDNA and 25S rRNA. The size and position of the intervening sequence within the gene were further defined by detailed restriction analyses of cloned fragments of the rDNA from each strain. The rDNA within the macronucleus of each of these strains is homogeneous, and thus the intervening sequence in the rDNA of strain 6UM must not interfere with transcription of the gene. Furthermore, the presence or absence of the intervening sequence has no obvious functional importance, since both strains can survive and grow equally well.", "PMID": 455443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11684", "title": "Acetylcholine receptor degradation measured by density labeling: effects of cholinergic ligands and evidence against recycling.", "content": "The methodology of density labeling of proteins by biosynthetic incorporation of 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids into newly synthesized polypeptide chains allows the direct measurement of the turnover rate of the acetylcholine receptor in cultured chick skeletal muscle. In this study, receptors synthesized in medium containing 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids were resolved from 1H, 12C, 14N-receptors by velocity sedimentation in sucrose-deuterium oxide gradients, and their proportions were determined by computer analysis of the gradient profiles. The kinetics of turnover of acetylcholine receptors are identical for developing chick muscle fibers grown in medium containing 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids or 1H, 12C, 14N-amino acids, and the high degree of substitution of normal aminoacyl residues by 2H, 13C, 15N-residues does not affect the turnover rate of the denser receptor. Comparison of the turnover rates in continuous and pulse-labeling experiments gave independent confirmation of these results. The application of a potent, essentially irreversible blocking agent, alpha-bungarotoxin, increases the median lifetime of receptors from 17 hr for the native unbound receptor to 22 hr for the alpha-bungarotoxin-receptor complex. As predicted, the total number of alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites increased in the continued presence of alpha-bungarotoxin due to extension of receptor lifetime. To determine whether other cholinergic agents affect the turnover rate of the receptor, measurements were performed on cultures grown in the presence of 10(-4) M d-tubocurare or 10(-4) M carbachol, a reversible antagonist and a reversible agonist, respectively, of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The receptor degradation rates of the drug-treated cells were identical to control values. The total number of alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites was reduced by 30% in the presence of carbachol, indicating that this agent affects the rate of synthesis of the acetylcholine receptor. Data formerly interpreted as suggesting a cycling of receptor-containing plasma membrane out of and back into the sarcolemma are now understood to reflect the alteration in receptor lifetime upon complexing with alpha-bungarotoxin. The intracellular \"hidden\" receptor sites were found to remain inside the myotubes and thus do not signify an intracellular pool of recycling plasma membrane.", "contents": "Acetylcholine receptor degradation measured by density labeling: effects of cholinergic ligands and evidence against recycling. The methodology of density labeling of proteins by biosynthetic incorporation of 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids into newly synthesized polypeptide chains allows the direct measurement of the turnover rate of the acetylcholine receptor in cultured chick skeletal muscle. In this study, receptors synthesized in medium containing 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids were resolved from 1H, 12C, 14N-receptors by velocity sedimentation in sucrose-deuterium oxide gradients, and their proportions were determined by computer analysis of the gradient profiles. The kinetics of turnover of acetylcholine receptors are identical for developing chick muscle fibers grown in medium containing 2H, 13C, 15N-amino acids or 1H, 12C, 14N-amino acids, and the high degree of substitution of normal aminoacyl residues by 2H, 13C, 15N-residues does not affect the turnover rate of the denser receptor. Comparison of the turnover rates in continuous and pulse-labeling experiments gave independent confirmation of these results. The application of a potent, essentially irreversible blocking agent, alpha-bungarotoxin, increases the median lifetime of receptors from 17 hr for the native unbound receptor to 22 hr for the alpha-bungarotoxin-receptor complex. As predicted, the total number of alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites increased in the continued presence of alpha-bungarotoxin due to extension of receptor lifetime. To determine whether other cholinergic agents affect the turnover rate of the receptor, measurements were performed on cultures grown in the presence of 10(-4) M d-tubocurare or 10(-4) M carbachol, a reversible antagonist and a reversible agonist, respectively, of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The receptor degradation rates of the drug-treated cells were identical to control values. The total number of alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites was reduced by 30% in the presence of carbachol, indicating that this agent affects the rate of synthesis of the acetylcholine receptor. Data formerly interpreted as suggesting a cycling of receptor-containing plasma membrane out of and back into the sarcolemma are now understood to reflect the alteration in receptor lifetime upon complexing with alpha-bungarotoxin. The intracellular \"hidden\" receptor sites were found to remain inside the myotubes and thus do not signify an intracellular pool of recycling plasma membrane.", "PMID": 455445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11685", "title": "Physical structures of Tn10-promoted deletions and inversions: role of 1400 bp inverted repetitions.", "content": "We report here the physical structures of deletions and inversions promoted by the translocatable tetracycline-resistance element Tn10. DNA/DNA heteroduplex and restriction enzyme analyses of alterations in the genome of bacteriophage lambda suggest that both types of DNA alterations almost always originate at the internal termini of the 1400 bp terminal inverted repetitions of Tn10. Tn10-promoted deletions remove a single contiguous DNA segment beginning at one such terminus; Tn10-promoted inversions are more complex, and involve both an inversion and a specific deletion of Tn10 DNA.", "contents": "Physical structures of Tn10-promoted deletions and inversions: role of 1400 bp inverted repetitions. We report here the physical structures of deletions and inversions promoted by the translocatable tetracycline-resistance element Tn10. DNA/DNA heteroduplex and restriction enzyme analyses of alterations in the genome of bacteriophage lambda suggest that both types of DNA alterations almost always originate at the internal termini of the 1400 bp terminal inverted repetitions of Tn10. Tn10-promoted deletions remove a single contiguous DNA segment beginning at one such terminus; Tn10-promoted inversions are more complex, and involve both an inversion and a specific deletion of Tn10 DNA.", "PMID": 455446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11686", "title": "Nearly precise excision: a new type of DNA alteration associated with the translocatable element Tn10.", "content": "We describe an unusual DNA alteration, \"nearly precise excision,\" which has been identified among tetracycline-sensitive deletion derivatives of lambda phages carrying the translocatable tetracycline-resistance element Tn10. DNA sequence analysis of two such derivatives demonstrates that each retains exactly 50 bp of Tn10 material. The original junctions between lambda and Tn10 sequences remain intact; however, an internal deletion has occurred within Tn10 which eliminates all but the last few base pairs at each end of the element. This deletion occurs within a short A + T-rich inverted repeat which is present near each end of Tn10. Nearly precise excisions occur at frequencies comparable to Tn10-promoted deletions, inversions and translocations, and, like these other events, are independent of phage and bacterial functions for homologous recombination (recA, recB, red). It is not yet clear, however, whether nearly precise excisions are specifically promoted by Tn10 or whether they arise during the course of normal DNA replication processes as a consequence of unusual symmetries present in the DNA sequence at the ends of Tn10.", "contents": "Nearly precise excision: a new type of DNA alteration associated with the translocatable element Tn10. We describe an unusual DNA alteration, \"nearly precise excision,\" which has been identified among tetracycline-sensitive deletion derivatives of lambda phages carrying the translocatable tetracycline-resistance element Tn10. DNA sequence analysis of two such derivatives demonstrates that each retains exactly 50 bp of Tn10 material. The original junctions between lambda and Tn10 sequences remain intact; however, an internal deletion has occurred within Tn10 which eliminates all but the last few base pairs at each end of the element. This deletion occurs within a short A + T-rich inverted repeat which is present near each end of Tn10. Nearly precise excisions occur at frequencies comparable to Tn10-promoted deletions, inversions and translocations, and, like these other events, are independent of phage and bacterial functions for homologous recombination (recA, recB, red). It is not yet clear, however, whether nearly precise excisions are specifically promoted by Tn10 or whether they arise during the course of normal DNA replication processes as a consequence of unusual symmetries present in the DNA sequence at the ends of Tn10.", "PMID": 455447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11687", "title": "The chromatin structure of specific genes: II. Disruption of chromatin structure during gene activity.", "content": "We have compared the chromatin structure in the active and inactive states at loci encoding the major heat shock protein in Drosophila. DNAase I and micrococcal nuclease were used as probes of higher order organization and nucleosomal integrity. Such integrity is gauged here by the characteristic pattern of discrete DNA fragments produced at specific chromosomal loci by nucleolytic cleavage. The specific fragment patterns are visualized by gel electrophoresis, Southern blotting onto nitrocellulose sheets, hybridization with 32P-labeled cloned DNA containing the heat shock genes and autoradiography. Using this criterion, a disruption in nucleosomal and possibly in higher order organization are observed as indicated by a relative loss or smearing of the characteristic discrete DNA fragment patterns from the heat shock loci in the active state. The fragment patterns are restored when cells are allowed to recover from heat shock and these loci return to the inactive state.", "contents": "The chromatin structure of specific genes: II. Disruption of chromatin structure during gene activity. We have compared the chromatin structure in the active and inactive states at loci encoding the major heat shock protein in Drosophila. DNAase I and micrococcal nuclease were used as probes of higher order organization and nucleosomal integrity. Such integrity is gauged here by the characteristic pattern of discrete DNA fragments produced at specific chromosomal loci by nucleolytic cleavage. The specific fragment patterns are visualized by gel electrophoresis, Southern blotting onto nitrocellulose sheets, hybridization with 32P-labeled cloned DNA containing the heat shock genes and autoradiography. Using this criterion, a disruption in nucleosomal and possibly in higher order organization are observed as indicated by a relative loss or smearing of the characteristic discrete DNA fragment patterns from the heat shock loci in the active state. The fragment patterns are restored when cells are allowed to recover from heat shock and these loci return to the inactive state.", "PMID": 455450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11688", "title": "Four T7 RNA polymerase promoters contain an identical 23 bp sequence.", "content": "The DNA sequences of four promoters for the bacteriophage-specified T7 RNA polymerase have been determined. All four regions contain an identical 23 bp sequence 5' pTAATACGACTCACTATAGGGAG-A(oh) which includes the 17 bp prior to and the first 6 bp of the transcribed region. They are located at 46.5, 55, 57 and 87% on the standard T7 map, thereby corresponding to the in vitro T7 class III RNA species IIIa, IV, V and IIIb, respectively. The precise RNA initiation sites were determined by 5' terminal RNA sequence analysis of the transcripts synthesized from promoter-containing DNA fragments. The comparative properties of these promoters for the monomeric T7 RNA polymerase and those for the multimeric E. coli RNA polymerase are discussed.", "contents": "Four T7 RNA polymerase promoters contain an identical 23 bp sequence. The DNA sequences of four promoters for the bacteriophage-specified T7 RNA polymerase have been determined. All four regions contain an identical 23 bp sequence 5' pTAATACGACTCACTATAGGGAG-A(oh) which includes the 17 bp prior to and the first 6 bp of the transcribed region. They are located at 46.5, 55, 57 and 87% on the standard T7 map, thereby corresponding to the in vitro T7 class III RNA species IIIa, IV, V and IIIb, respectively. The precise RNA initiation sites were determined by 5' terminal RNA sequence analysis of the transcripts synthesized from promoter-containing DNA fragments. The comparative properties of these promoters for the monomeric T7 RNA polymerase and those for the multimeric E. coli RNA polymerase are discussed.", "PMID": 455451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11689", "title": "Sequence analysis of adenovirus DNA: complete nucleotide sequence of the spliced 5' noncoding region of adenovirus 2 hexon messenger RNA.", "content": "The complete nucleotide sequence of the 5' noncoding region of the adenovirus 2 hexon messenger RNA has been established by sequence analysis of reverse transcripts. Such transcripts were generated by extension of specific single-stranded DNA primers with reverse transcriptase after hybridization to purified hexon mRNA. The total length of the 5' noncoding region was determined to be 240 nucleotides, of which the spliced tripartite leader sequence contributes 202 nucleotides including the terminal m7G. The sizes of the different segments of the tripartite leader were estimated by comparing the established mRNA sequence with the genomic sequences for the first and third leader segments, and were found to be 42 nucleotides for the first segment, 71 nucleotides for the second and 89 nucleotides for the third. The estimates are ambiguous, however, due to the presence of tandemly repeated sequences at both ends of the intervening sequence between the third leader segment and the body of the hexon mRNA. The sequence of the leader allows the formation of hydrogen-bonded interactions with the 3' end of 18S ribosomal RNA near the capped 5' end and also close to the initiator AUG.", "contents": "Sequence analysis of adenovirus DNA: complete nucleotide sequence of the spliced 5' noncoding region of adenovirus 2 hexon messenger RNA. The complete nucleotide sequence of the 5' noncoding region of the adenovirus 2 hexon messenger RNA has been established by sequence analysis of reverse transcripts. Such transcripts were generated by extension of specific single-stranded DNA primers with reverse transcriptase after hybridization to purified hexon mRNA. The total length of the 5' noncoding region was determined to be 240 nucleotides, of which the spliced tripartite leader sequence contributes 202 nucleotides including the terminal m7G. The sizes of the different segments of the tripartite leader were estimated by comparing the established mRNA sequence with the genomic sequences for the first and third leader segments, and were found to be 42 nucleotides for the first segment, 71 nucleotides for the second and 89 nucleotides for the third. The estimates are ambiguous, however, due to the presence of tandemly repeated sequences at both ends of the intervening sequence between the third leader segment and the body of the hexon mRNA. The sequence of the leader allows the formation of hydrogen-bonded interactions with the 3' end of 18S ribosomal RNA near the capped 5' end and also close to the initiator AUG.", "PMID": 455452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11690", "title": "Nucleotide sequence analysis of the leader segments in a cloned copy of adenovirus 2 fiber mRNA.", "content": "Fiber mRNA of adenovirus 2 has been used as a template for RNA-dependent DNA polymerase. The resulting cDNA/RNA hybrids have been inserted at the Pst I site of the plasmid vector pBR322 after A:T tailing. One recombinant plasmid, pJAW 43, has been characterized in detail and shown to contain sequences from the main body of fiber mRNA, the three leaders common to most late adenoviral mRNAs and a fourth leader found in some species of fiber mRNA. The complete DNA sequence of the leader region has been determined and does not contain the initiation codon AUG, although this codon does occur immediately downstream from the junction between the fourth leader and the main body of the fiber mRNA. The first leader (map coordinate 16.6) is 41 nucleotides long, the second (from 19.6) is 71 nucleotides, the third (from 26.6) is 88 nucleotides and the fourth (from 78.5) is 181 nucleotides. The location of junctions between viral leaders and intervening sequences has been determined by reference, where possible, to sequences of the adenovirus 2 genome. Although the presence of short repeated sequences at the boundaries of intervening sequences and leaders makes it impossible to locate the splice point unambiguously, all of the leader-intervening sequence junctions can be arranged to stress a common feature--the presence of the dinucleotides GT and AG at the 5' and 3' ends, respectively, of the intervening sequences. This prototype sequence, which has also been recognized at or near the splice points in other eucaryotic systems, is possibly part of a larger unit which serves as a recognition site for specific excision-ligation events that ultimately lead to the production of mature mRNAs.", "contents": "Nucleotide sequence analysis of the leader segments in a cloned copy of adenovirus 2 fiber mRNA. Fiber mRNA of adenovirus 2 has been used as a template for RNA-dependent DNA polymerase. The resulting cDNA/RNA hybrids have been inserted at the Pst I site of the plasmid vector pBR322 after A:T tailing. One recombinant plasmid, pJAW 43, has been characterized in detail and shown to contain sequences from the main body of fiber mRNA, the three leaders common to most late adenoviral mRNAs and a fourth leader found in some species of fiber mRNA. The complete DNA sequence of the leader region has been determined and does not contain the initiation codon AUG, although this codon does occur immediately downstream from the junction between the fourth leader and the main body of the fiber mRNA. The first leader (map coordinate 16.6) is 41 nucleotides long, the second (from 19.6) is 71 nucleotides, the third (from 26.6) is 88 nucleotides and the fourth (from 78.5) is 181 nucleotides. The location of junctions between viral leaders and intervening sequences has been determined by reference, where possible, to sequences of the adenovirus 2 genome. Although the presence of short repeated sequences at the boundaries of intervening sequences and leaders makes it impossible to locate the splice point unambiguously, all of the leader-intervening sequence junctions can be arranged to stress a common feature--the presence of the dinucleotides GT and AG at the 5' and 3' ends, respectively, of the intervening sequences. This prototype sequence, which has also been recognized at or near the splice points in other eucaryotic systems, is possibly part of a larger unit which serves as a recognition site for specific excision-ligation events that ultimately lead to the production of mature mRNAs.", "PMID": 455453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11691", "title": "Microinjection of the nonhistone chromosomal protein HMG1 into bovine fibroblasts and HeLa cells.", "content": "The nonhistone chromosomal protein HMG1 associated rapidly with the nuclei of HeLa cells and bovine fibroblasts following its introduction into the cytoplasm by red cell-mediated microinjection. A number of non-nuclear proteins, on the other hand, failed to concentrate in HeLa or bovine fibroblast nuclei. Autoradiography of thin sections showed that 125I-labeled HMG1 localized within nuclei, and further established that it remained associated with metaphase chromosomes at mitosis. When uninjected HeLa cells were fused with 125I-HMG1-injected HeLa cells, the labeled molecules equilibrated between nuclei within 12 hr. Similar results were obtained with bovine fibroblasts, indicating that a dynamic equilibrium exists between HMG1 and chromatin within living cells. Electrophoresis of 125I-HMG1 retrieved from HeLa cells or bovine fibroblasts up to 48 hr after injection showed that more than 80% of the molecules were intact. Autoradiographic analysis of cells fixed over a period of several days after injection produced apparent half-lives for 125I-HMG1 of 80 hr in HeLa cells and 100 hr in bovine fibroblasts.", "contents": "Microinjection of the nonhistone chromosomal protein HMG1 into bovine fibroblasts and HeLa cells. The nonhistone chromosomal protein HMG1 associated rapidly with the nuclei of HeLa cells and bovine fibroblasts following its introduction into the cytoplasm by red cell-mediated microinjection. A number of non-nuclear proteins, on the other hand, failed to concentrate in HeLa or bovine fibroblast nuclei. Autoradiography of thin sections showed that 125I-labeled HMG1 localized within nuclei, and further established that it remained associated with metaphase chromosomes at mitosis. When uninjected HeLa cells were fused with 125I-HMG1-injected HeLa cells, the labeled molecules equilibrated between nuclei within 12 hr. Similar results were obtained with bovine fibroblasts, indicating that a dynamic equilibrium exists between HMG1 and chromatin within living cells. Electrophoresis of 125I-HMG1 retrieved from HeLa cells or bovine fibroblasts up to 48 hr after injection showed that more than 80% of the molecules were intact. Autoradiographic analysis of cells fixed over a period of several days after injection produced apparent half-lives for 125I-HMG1 of 80 hr in HeLa cells and 100 hr in bovine fibroblasts.", "PMID": 455454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11692", "title": "Mammary plasminogen activator: correlation with involution, hormonal modulation and comparison between normal and neoplastic tissue.", "content": "We have analyzed the plasminogen activator (PA) content of normal rodent mammary glands at different stages of the mammary life cycle and after exposing the animals to various hormones; we have also assessed the PA response of mammary explants to a variety of hormonal environments. Similar studies were performed on a limited number of primary mammary tumors. Plasminogen activator production was clearly correlated with mammary involution. A large but transient increase in enzyme content followed the initiation of involution in all glands, and the enzyme was produced by mammary cells, not by macrophages or granulocytes. Oxytocin, prolactin and hydrocortisone, which slowed or blocked involution, produced parallel effects on gland regression and PA synthesis. PA synthesis by explants in organ culture was induced by hormonal environments that fostered involution and repressed by those that promoted lactation. Mammary tumors produced much more PA than normal tissue both in vivo and in vitro, and distinct differences were found in the response of enzyme synthesis to hormones. The results reinforce the association of PA with tissue remodeling; show that the enzyme can be used as an indicator of cellular response to a wide range of hormones in both normal and malignant tissue; and suggest that observations of this type in organ culture may be of some value in predicting physiological responses in vivo.", "contents": "Mammary plasminogen activator: correlation with involution, hormonal modulation and comparison between normal and neoplastic tissue. We have analyzed the plasminogen activator (PA) content of normal rodent mammary glands at different stages of the mammary life cycle and after exposing the animals to various hormones; we have also assessed the PA response of mammary explants to a variety of hormonal environments. Similar studies were performed on a limited number of primary mammary tumors. Plasminogen activator production was clearly correlated with mammary involution. A large but transient increase in enzyme content followed the initiation of involution in all glands, and the enzyme was produced by mammary cells, not by macrophages or granulocytes. Oxytocin, prolactin and hydrocortisone, which slowed or blocked involution, produced parallel effects on gland regression and PA synthesis. PA synthesis by explants in organ culture was induced by hormonal environments that fostered involution and repressed by those that promoted lactation. Mammary tumors produced much more PA than normal tissue both in vivo and in vitro, and distinct differences were found in the response of enzyme synthesis to hormones. The results reinforce the association of PA with tissue remodeling; show that the enzyme can be used as an indicator of cellular response to a wide range of hormones in both normal and malignant tissue; and suggest that observations of this type in organ culture may be of some value in predicting physiological responses in vivo.", "PMID": 455456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11693", "title": "The localization and synthesis of some collagen types in developing mouse embryos.", "content": "The location of type IV (basement membrane)collagen in early post-implantation mouse embryos was examined by immunoperoxidase reactions using a specific immunoglobulin raised against mouse lens capsule collagen. Reaction was positive in the earliest embryos studied--on the fifth day of gestation (the day of detection of the copulation plug is the first day). It was found only in the primitive endoderm adjacent to the blastocoelic cavity. Subsequently in development, strong staining reactions were found in the parietal endoderm, Reichert's membrane and an acellular layer which separates the visceral endoderm of the egg cylinder from the ectoderm. In tenth to eighteenth day visceral yolk sacs, the mesodermal portion was stained, which is consistent with the presence of basement membranes around blood vessels. The endodermal portion of the visceral yolk sac did not react, while small amounts were found in the amnion. By incubation of various embryonic tissues with tritiated amino acids, purification of the biosynthesized secreted collagens and their partial characterization, the differential expression of several collagen genes was detected. Identification of collagen types was made by: reaction with specific antibodies to type I and IV collagens; electrophoretic mobility; sensitivity to reduction and to collagenase; analysis of the proportions of 3-hydroxyproline, 4-hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine; and CNBr peptides. In agreement with the data of Minor et al. (1976a) for the rat, mouse parietal endoderm synthesizes large amounts of type IV collagen. In contrast to their findings, however, the 165,000 molecular weight polypeptide is not converted to one of 100,000 after reduction, alkylation and repepsinization (Dehm and Kefalides, 1978). The endoderm of the visceral yolk sac was shown to be synthesizing primarily type I collagen, while the mesoderm layer of this membrane synthesized both type I and IV collagens. Little or no type IV collagen synthesis was detected in the endoderm of the visceral yolk sac. If it is correct that the visceral endoderm of the early embryo makes a major contribution to the formation of the endoderm portion of the visceral yolk sac, then it is clear that a switch in collagen gene expression must occur as it does so.", "contents": "The localization and synthesis of some collagen types in developing mouse embryos. The location of type IV (basement membrane)collagen in early post-implantation mouse embryos was examined by immunoperoxidase reactions using a specific immunoglobulin raised against mouse lens capsule collagen. Reaction was positive in the earliest embryos studied--on the fifth day of gestation (the day of detection of the copulation plug is the first day). It was found only in the primitive endoderm adjacent to the blastocoelic cavity. Subsequently in development, strong staining reactions were found in the parietal endoderm, Reichert's membrane and an acellular layer which separates the visceral endoderm of the egg cylinder from the ectoderm. In tenth to eighteenth day visceral yolk sacs, the mesodermal portion was stained, which is consistent with the presence of basement membranes around blood vessels. The endodermal portion of the visceral yolk sac did not react, while small amounts were found in the amnion. By incubation of various embryonic tissues with tritiated amino acids, purification of the biosynthesized secreted collagens and their partial characterization, the differential expression of several collagen genes was detected. Identification of collagen types was made by: reaction with specific antibodies to type I and IV collagens; electrophoretic mobility; sensitivity to reduction and to collagenase; analysis of the proportions of 3-hydroxyproline, 4-hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine; and CNBr peptides. In agreement with the data of Minor et al. (1976a) for the rat, mouse parietal endoderm synthesizes large amounts of type IV collagen. In contrast to their findings, however, the 165,000 molecular weight polypeptide is not converted to one of 100,000 after reduction, alkylation and repepsinization (Dehm and Kefalides, 1978). The endoderm of the visceral yolk sac was shown to be synthesizing primarily type I collagen, while the mesoderm layer of this membrane synthesized both type I and IV collagens. Little or no type IV collagen synthesis was detected in the endoderm of the visceral yolk sac. If it is correct that the visceral endoderm of the early embryo makes a major contribution to the formation of the endoderm portion of the visceral yolk sac, then it is clear that a switch in collagen gene expression must occur as it does so.", "PMID": 455457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11694", "title": "Two species of lysosomal organelles in cultured human fibroblasts.", "content": "Cultured diploid human skin fibroblasts were fractionated by a procedure that maximizes recovery of particles containing acid hydrolases. The cells were detached by controlled trypsinization, disrupted by N2 cavitation at low pressure and fractionated at 18,000 x g on a self-generating gradient of colloidal silica. This procedure separated two species of particles that could be consisered lysosomal. The denser one (peak density 1.11) was apparently free of other contaminants, but the more buoyant one (peak density 1.085) sedimented with or close to the peaks of other organelles, including mitochondria, Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membranes. The two populations of particles contained acid hydrolases (phosphatase, six glycosidases and four cathepsins) in roughly equal proportions, displayed latency, had similar turnover of 35S-mucopolysaccharide in normal as well as in iduronidase-deficient cells, and were recipients of alpha-L-iduronidase, previously shown to be acquired by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Acid phosphatase staining of the intact fibroblasts showed residual bodies scattered throughout the cytoplasm and, near the nucleus, a prominent network of tubules and associated dilatations and knob-like enlargements. In both thin and thick sections, these appeared continuous, as if forming a three-dimensional network similar to the network described by Novikoff (1976) as GERL. Ultrastructural studies of the isolated fractions showed the denser lysosomal peak to be composed of small round or oblong acid phosphatase-positive bodies. The more buoyant peak contained the nonlysosomal organelles predicted from the biochemical markers, small acid phosphatase-positive bodies and large multivesiculated structures in which acid phosphatase was localized in a matrix surrounding apparently empty vesicles. These large structures may represent fragments of GERL. We suggest that the dense and buoyant lysosomal organelles originate primarily from residual bodies and the GERL network, respectively.", "contents": "Two species of lysosomal organelles in cultured human fibroblasts. Cultured diploid human skin fibroblasts were fractionated by a procedure that maximizes recovery of particles containing acid hydrolases. The cells were detached by controlled trypsinization, disrupted by N2 cavitation at low pressure and fractionated at 18,000 x g on a self-generating gradient of colloidal silica. This procedure separated two species of particles that could be consisered lysosomal. The denser one (peak density 1.11) was apparently free of other contaminants, but the more buoyant one (peak density 1.085) sedimented with or close to the peaks of other organelles, including mitochondria, Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membranes. The two populations of particles contained acid hydrolases (phosphatase, six glycosidases and four cathepsins) in roughly equal proportions, displayed latency, had similar turnover of 35S-mucopolysaccharide in normal as well as in iduronidase-deficient cells, and were recipients of alpha-L-iduronidase, previously shown to be acquired by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Acid phosphatase staining of the intact fibroblasts showed residual bodies scattered throughout the cytoplasm and, near the nucleus, a prominent network of tubules and associated dilatations and knob-like enlargements. In both thin and thick sections, these appeared continuous, as if forming a three-dimensional network similar to the network described by Novikoff (1976) as GERL. Ultrastructural studies of the isolated fractions showed the denser lysosomal peak to be composed of small round or oblong acid phosphatase-positive bodies. The more buoyant peak contained the nonlysosomal organelles predicted from the biochemical markers, small acid phosphatase-positive bodies and large multivesiculated structures in which acid phosphatase was localized in a matrix surrounding apparently empty vesicles. These large structures may represent fragments of GERL. We suggest that the dense and buoyant lysosomal organelles originate primarily from residual bodies and the GERL network, respectively.", "PMID": 455458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11695", "title": "Sequence organization of the spacer DNA in a ribosomal gene unit of Xenopus laevis.", "content": "A detailed restriction map was constructed for a cloned Xenopus laevis rDNA fragment containing the nontranscribed spacer (NTS) and external transcribed spacer (ETS) together with a portion of both the 18S and 28S rRNA genes. The NTS was found to contain at least three distinct repetitious areas. Region 1 has a repeating unit of approximately 100 bp. The primary structure of this unit has been determined by DNA sequencing. Region 2 is very similar in organization to region 3, and both have an alternating 81/60 bp arrangement as revealed by restriction with Alu I and DNA sequencing. It can be shown that the 81 and 60 bp canons are virtually identical to one another excepting a deletion/insertion of a 21 bp segment. Region 3 differs from region 2 in having sites for Sma I with its 81 bp units. Between these repeated DNA sequences there are two identical, nonrepetitive DNA sequences, each of which is centered around a Bam Hl site. Most of the ETS has been sequenced. It was found to be nonrepetitive and extremely rich in Cs. Close to the 5' end of the 18S coding sequence there is a DNA stretch very rich in purines. About 2.25 kb upstream from the Eco Rl restriction site bisecting the 18S structural gene there is a unique sequence which may be homologous to the 5' end of the 40S precursor RNA. Present evidence suggests that the boundaries between NTS and ETS occur farther downstream than was suggested by electron microscopic data. Sequencing has revealed that the spacer DNA of X. laevis contains different kinds of simple DNA sequences, but no evidence has been found that spacer DNA once arose by saltation of a 15 bp segment. The most surprising finding was that the spacer sequences around the Bam restriction sites (the Bam islands) show high homology with a sequence near the NTS/ETS interface. From the restriction and sequencing analyses it can be deduced that in recent evolutionary times the DNA sequences near the 5' end of the ribosomal transcription unit were reduplicated twice and displaced into spacer by saltation of an intervening short DNA sequence (the 60/81 bp canons). Possible implications of these evolutionary events for spacer functions are consisdered. The sequencing has also provided a molecular basis for a whole range of conclusions arrived at previously by indirect approaches, and these are discussed.", "contents": "Sequence organization of the spacer DNA in a ribosomal gene unit of Xenopus laevis. A detailed restriction map was constructed for a cloned Xenopus laevis rDNA fragment containing the nontranscribed spacer (NTS) and external transcribed spacer (ETS) together with a portion of both the 18S and 28S rRNA genes. The NTS was found to contain at least three distinct repetitious areas. Region 1 has a repeating unit of approximately 100 bp. The primary structure of this unit has been determined by DNA sequencing. Region 2 is very similar in organization to region 3, and both have an alternating 81/60 bp arrangement as revealed by restriction with Alu I and DNA sequencing. It can be shown that the 81 and 60 bp canons are virtually identical to one another excepting a deletion/insertion of a 21 bp segment. Region 3 differs from region 2 in having sites for Sma I with its 81 bp units. Between these repeated DNA sequences there are two identical, nonrepetitive DNA sequences, each of which is centered around a Bam Hl site. Most of the ETS has been sequenced. It was found to be nonrepetitive and extremely rich in Cs. Close to the 5' end of the 18S coding sequence there is a DNA stretch very rich in purines. About 2.25 kb upstream from the Eco Rl restriction site bisecting the 18S structural gene there is a unique sequence which may be homologous to the 5' end of the 40S precursor RNA. Present evidence suggests that the boundaries between NTS and ETS occur farther downstream than was suggested by electron microscopic data. Sequencing has revealed that the spacer DNA of X. laevis contains different kinds of simple DNA sequences, but no evidence has been found that spacer DNA once arose by saltation of a 15 bp segment. The most surprising finding was that the spacer sequences around the Bam restriction sites (the Bam islands) show high homology with a sequence near the NTS/ETS interface. From the restriction and sequencing analyses it can be deduced that in recent evolutionary times the DNA sequences near the 5' end of the ribosomal transcription unit were reduplicated twice and displaced into spacer by saltation of an intervening short DNA sequence (the 60/81 bp canons). Possible implications of these evolutionary events for spacer functions are consisdered. The sequencing has also provided a molecular basis for a whole range of conclusions arrived at previously by indirect approaches, and these are discussed.", "PMID": 455459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11696", "title": "The molecular basis of alpha-thalassemias: frequent occurrence of dysfunctional alpha loci among non-Asians with Hb H disease.", "content": "Study of Asians has previously indicated that deletion of alpha-globin structural genes is the predominant lesion in alpha-thalassemias and that Hb H disease occurs when three of four normal alpha loci per cell are deleted. To test the generality of this model, Hb H disease DNAs of both Asian and non-Asian origin were analyzed by restriction endonuclease mapping using the technique of Southern (1975). Whereas in normal DNA, alpha sequences are present in a single Eco Rl fragment of cellular DNA approximately 22.5 kb long, fragments of 22.5, 20 and 2.6 kb were found in various Hb H disease DNAs. The 20 kb Eco Rl fragment alone, in which a single alpha-globin structural locus resides, was found in Asian Hb H disease DNA. This finding is consistent with the deletion model of alpha-thalassemia. In contrast, seven of eight non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs displayed a more complex molecular composition. The fragment patterns observed were 22.5 kb alone, 22.5 plus 2.6 kb, 20 plus 2.6 kb and 20 kb alone. Non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs contained one, two or three alpha loci per cell in contrast to the one locus predicted by the simple deletion model of alpha-thalassemia. The data are best explained by the existence of defective alpha loci in certain individuals with alpha-thalassemia, particularly outside the Asian population. Restriction mapping of the 20 kb Eco Rl fragment found in Asian and some non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs demonstrated a striking similarity in the placement of restriction sites about the single alpha gene compared with sites about the two genes in the 22.5 kb Eco Rl fragment seen in normal DNA. These data are consistent with origin of the 20 kb fragment from the 22.5 kb normal Eco Rl fragment by either unequal crossing-over or a deletion event. The molecular heterogeneity and frequent occurrence of defective alpha loci in non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs described here may explain, in part, the clinical heterogeneity of alpha-thalassemias and the absence of the homozygous deletion state (hydrops fetalis) in non-Asians. Further study of cellular DNA fragments containing the defective alpha loci identified in this work may indicate the types of specific mutations responsible for abnormal globin gene expression and complement similar studies on abnormal beta genes in beta-thalassemias.", "contents": "The molecular basis of alpha-thalassemias: frequent occurrence of dysfunctional alpha loci among non-Asians with Hb H disease. Study of Asians has previously indicated that deletion of alpha-globin structural genes is the predominant lesion in alpha-thalassemias and that Hb H disease occurs when three of four normal alpha loci per cell are deleted. To test the generality of this model, Hb H disease DNAs of both Asian and non-Asian origin were analyzed by restriction endonuclease mapping using the technique of Southern (1975). Whereas in normal DNA, alpha sequences are present in a single Eco Rl fragment of cellular DNA approximately 22.5 kb long, fragments of 22.5, 20 and 2.6 kb were found in various Hb H disease DNAs. The 20 kb Eco Rl fragment alone, in which a single alpha-globin structural locus resides, was found in Asian Hb H disease DNA. This finding is consistent with the deletion model of alpha-thalassemia. In contrast, seven of eight non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs displayed a more complex molecular composition. The fragment patterns observed were 22.5 kb alone, 22.5 plus 2.6 kb, 20 plus 2.6 kb and 20 kb alone. Non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs contained one, two or three alpha loci per cell in contrast to the one locus predicted by the simple deletion model of alpha-thalassemia. The data are best explained by the existence of defective alpha loci in certain individuals with alpha-thalassemia, particularly outside the Asian population. Restriction mapping of the 20 kb Eco Rl fragment found in Asian and some non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs demonstrated a striking similarity in the placement of restriction sites about the single alpha gene compared with sites about the two genes in the 22.5 kb Eco Rl fragment seen in normal DNA. These data are consistent with origin of the 20 kb fragment from the 22.5 kb normal Eco Rl fragment by either unequal crossing-over or a deletion event. The molecular heterogeneity and frequent occurrence of defective alpha loci in non-Asian Hb H disease DNAs described here may explain, in part, the clinical heterogeneity of alpha-thalassemias and the absence of the homozygous deletion state (hydrops fetalis) in non-Asians. Further study of cellular DNA fragments containing the defective alpha loci identified in this work may indicate the types of specific mutations responsible for abnormal globin gene expression and complement similar studies on abnormal beta genes in beta-thalassemias.", "PMID": 455460} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11697", "title": "Manipulation of myogenesis in vitro: reversible inhibition by DMSO.", "content": "A system has been developed for the detailed analysis of the transition from proliferative myoblast to differentiated muscle cell. Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) prevents the terminal differentiation of L8 myoblasts in vitro, and its effect is reversible. DMSO (2%) inhibits the fusion of myoblasts to form multinucleate myotubes, the normal increases in activity of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and acetylcholinesterase, and the synthesis of alpha-actin and acetylcholine receptor protein. Upon removal of DMSO from the medium, a lag precedes the onset of differentiation. The potential to inhibit muscle differentiation reversibly is not specific to DMSO, but is shared by a number of compounds, including dimethylformamide, hexamethylbisacetamide and butyric acid, all potent inducers of gene expression in Friend erythroleukemia cells. L8 cells routinely cease DNA synthesis and initiate fusion and muscle protein synthesis once they are confluent. In the presence of DMSO, however, nearly all cells continue DNA synthesis, even several days after reaching confluence. Protein synthetic patterns of DMSO-inhibited cells are almost indistinguishable from those of untreated myoblasts and distinct from differentiated myotubes. It appears that cells exposed to DMSO are locked indefinitely in a proliferative myoblast stage of development and are unable to enter the Go phase of the cell cycle necessary for initiation of differentiation. DMSO coordinately inhibits all the differentiative parameters measured. In contrast, cytochalasin B uncouples normally linked differentiative events so that fusion is inhibited while muscle-specific protein synthesis proceeds. DMSO has similar effects on both cytochalasin B-treated and fusing control cultures, suggesting that its primary effect is exerted not at the level of fusion but earlier in the differentiative time-table. Once fusion and the synthesis of muscle-specific proteins are well under way, the addition of DMSO is ineffective and differentiation continues in its presence. The potential to manipulate muscle gene expression in vitro makes this system particularly useful for the detailed analysis of the processes involved in the transition to the differentiated state and for determining the linkage of developmental events.", "contents": "Manipulation of myogenesis in vitro: reversible inhibition by DMSO. A system has been developed for the detailed analysis of the transition from proliferative myoblast to differentiated muscle cell. Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) prevents the terminal differentiation of L8 myoblasts in vitro, and its effect is reversible. DMSO (2%) inhibits the fusion of myoblasts to form multinucleate myotubes, the normal increases in activity of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and acetylcholinesterase, and the synthesis of alpha-actin and acetylcholine receptor protein. Upon removal of DMSO from the medium, a lag precedes the onset of differentiation. The potential to inhibit muscle differentiation reversibly is not specific to DMSO, but is shared by a number of compounds, including dimethylformamide, hexamethylbisacetamide and butyric acid, all potent inducers of gene expression in Friend erythroleukemia cells. L8 cells routinely cease DNA synthesis and initiate fusion and muscle protein synthesis once they are confluent. In the presence of DMSO, however, nearly all cells continue DNA synthesis, even several days after reaching confluence. Protein synthetic patterns of DMSO-inhibited cells are almost indistinguishable from those of untreated myoblasts and distinct from differentiated myotubes. It appears that cells exposed to DMSO are locked indefinitely in a proliferative myoblast stage of development and are unable to enter the Go phase of the cell cycle necessary for initiation of differentiation. DMSO coordinately inhibits all the differentiative parameters measured. In contrast, cytochalasin B uncouples normally linked differentiative events so that fusion is inhibited while muscle-specific protein synthesis proceeds. DMSO has similar effects on both cytochalasin B-treated and fusing control cultures, suggesting that its primary effect is exerted not at the level of fusion but earlier in the differentiative time-table. Once fusion and the synthesis of muscle-specific proteins are well under way, the addition of DMSO is ineffective and differentiation continues in its presence. The potential to manipulate muscle gene expression in vitro makes this system particularly useful for the detailed analysis of the processes involved in the transition to the differentiated state and for determining the linkage of developmental events.", "PMID": 455462} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11698", "title": "Fibronectin mediates cytokinesis and growth of rat follicular cells in serum-free medium.", "content": "In this study, the growth of rat follicular (RF-1) cells was severely depressed when the cells were subcultured by trypsinization directly into serum-free medium supplemented with insulin, transferrin and hydrocortisone, which are required for growth of these cells in vitro. Within 24 hr after plating, 50-65% of the cells became binucleated, indicating lack of cytokinesis. However, the addition of human plasma fibronectin (8 microgram/ml) to the serum-free medium eliminated cell binucleation and enhanced cell growth considerably. Fibronectin had the same effect when RF-1 cells were plated into tissue culture dishes on which fibronectin had been absorbed, and cells were inoculated into fibronectin-free medium. Cell binucleation and poor growth in serum-free medium occurred when the cells were subcultured by trypsinization, EGTA treatment or detachment of mitotic cells. Under some conditions, cells could be \"rescued\" if fibronectin was added soon after inoculation, indicating that fibronectin was needed mainly during a limited time when the subcultured cells were attaching to the tissue culture substratum. Our findings describe an adhesive activity for fibronectin which circumvents the serum preincubation usually needed after RF-1 cells are subcultured for growth in serum-free medium. They also indicate the importance of fibronectin-mediated adhesion for cytokinesis processes of these cells.", "contents": "Fibronectin mediates cytokinesis and growth of rat follicular cells in serum-free medium. In this study, the growth of rat follicular (RF-1) cells was severely depressed when the cells were subcultured by trypsinization directly into serum-free medium supplemented with insulin, transferrin and hydrocortisone, which are required for growth of these cells in vitro. Within 24 hr after plating, 50-65% of the cells became binucleated, indicating lack of cytokinesis. However, the addition of human plasma fibronectin (8 microgram/ml) to the serum-free medium eliminated cell binucleation and enhanced cell growth considerably. Fibronectin had the same effect when RF-1 cells were plated into tissue culture dishes on which fibronectin had been absorbed, and cells were inoculated into fibronectin-free medium. Cell binucleation and poor growth in serum-free medium occurred when the cells were subcultured by trypsinization, EGTA treatment or detachment of mitotic cells. Under some conditions, cells could be \"rescued\" if fibronectin was added soon after inoculation, indicating that fibronectin was needed mainly during a limited time when the subcultured cells were attaching to the tissue culture substratum. Our findings describe an adhesive activity for fibronectin which circumvents the serum preincubation usually needed after RF-1 cells are subcultured for growth in serum-free medium. They also indicate the importance of fibronectin-mediated adhesion for cytokinesis processes of these cells.", "PMID": 455465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11699", "title": "Cilia regeneration in starved tetrahymena: an inducible system for studying gene expression and organelle biogenesis.", "content": "Deciliated starved Tetrahymena recover motility with kinetics similar to those of growing cells and, like growing cells, require RNA and protein synthesis for regeneration. Comparisons of polysome profiles and electrophoretic analyses of newly synthesized proteins indicate, however, that the basal level of protein synthesis in starved cells is markedly lower than that in growing cells. This difference allows demonstration of changes in protein synthesis following deciliation of starved cells which cannot be detected (if they occur at all) in growing cells. Deciliation of starved cells induces a specific and orderly program of protein synthesis. The synthesis of an 80,000 dalton protein (deciliation-induced protein, DIP) begins shortly after deciliation, comprises 15% of the protein synthesized from 20-60 min, and declines around 60 min after deciliation, shortly after most cells have begun to regenerate cilia. The synthesis of a 55,000 dalton protein is also induced during regeneration and has been identified as tubulin using a well characterized antibody made to ciliary tubulin. Tubulin synthesis is undetectable during the first hour after deciliation even though 60-80% of the cells regain mobility and regenerate short but clearly visible cilia. Tubulin synthesis begins 60 min after deciliation and continues for 2 hr. At its peak, tubulin comprises 7-8% of the protein synthesized. The results of actinomycin D addition at different times after deciliation suggest that RNA required for DIP synthesis is synthesized early (0-30 min), while RNA required for tubulin is synthesized later and over a longer period (30-90 min). Thus deciliation of starved cells, an event occurring at the cell periphery, initiates a well defined and reproducible series of events culminating in cilia formation. This system should be useful in elucidating the molecular mechanisms regulating gene expression and organelle biogenesis in Tetrahymena.", "contents": "Cilia regeneration in starved tetrahymena: an inducible system for studying gene expression and organelle biogenesis. Deciliated starved Tetrahymena recover motility with kinetics similar to those of growing cells and, like growing cells, require RNA and protein synthesis for regeneration. Comparisons of polysome profiles and electrophoretic analyses of newly synthesized proteins indicate, however, that the basal level of protein synthesis in starved cells is markedly lower than that in growing cells. This difference allows demonstration of changes in protein synthesis following deciliation of starved cells which cannot be detected (if they occur at all) in growing cells. Deciliation of starved cells induces a specific and orderly program of protein synthesis. The synthesis of an 80,000 dalton protein (deciliation-induced protein, DIP) begins shortly after deciliation, comprises 15% of the protein synthesized from 20-60 min, and declines around 60 min after deciliation, shortly after most cells have begun to regenerate cilia. The synthesis of a 55,000 dalton protein is also induced during regeneration and has been identified as tubulin using a well characterized antibody made to ciliary tubulin. Tubulin synthesis is undetectable during the first hour after deciliation even though 60-80% of the cells regain mobility and regenerate short but clearly visible cilia. Tubulin synthesis begins 60 min after deciliation and continues for 2 hr. At its peak, tubulin comprises 7-8% of the protein synthesized. The results of actinomycin D addition at different times after deciliation suggest that RNA required for DIP synthesis is synthesized early (0-30 min), while RNA required for tubulin is synthesized later and over a longer period (30-90 min). Thus deciliation of starved cells, an event occurring at the cell periphery, initiates a well defined and reproducible series of events culminating in cilia formation. This system should be useful in elucidating the molecular mechanisms regulating gene expression and organelle biogenesis in Tetrahymena.", "PMID": 455466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11700", "title": "Mechanisms of regulating tubulin synthesis in cultured mammalian cells.", "content": "Colchicine and nocadazole both depolymerize microtubules in cultured fibroblasts and lead to a rapid inhibition of tubulin synthesis. The level of translatable tubulin mRNA is greatly reduced in drug-treated cells as demonstrated by translation in a reticulocyte-derived in vitro protein synthesizing system. A model of tubulin synthesis regulation is proposed in which the elevated level of unpolymerized tubulin in drug-treated cells inhibits the formation of new tubulin mRNA and the preexisting message decays rapidly. In agreement with this model, tubulin message is found to be short-lived and has an approximately 2 hr half-life in cells treated with actinomycin D. Another prediction of the proposed model is that destabilization of microtubules without a concomitant increase in free tubulin will not inhibit tubulin synthesis. Vinblastine also disrupts microtubules but leads to the aggregation of tubulin into large paracrystals with an apparent decrease in the concentration of free tubulin. This drug does not inhibit tubulin production but rather leads to a measurable enhancement of tubulin synthesis.", "contents": "Mechanisms of regulating tubulin synthesis in cultured mammalian cells. Colchicine and nocadazole both depolymerize microtubules in cultured fibroblasts and lead to a rapid inhibition of tubulin synthesis. The level of translatable tubulin mRNA is greatly reduced in drug-treated cells as demonstrated by translation in a reticulocyte-derived in vitro protein synthesizing system. A model of tubulin synthesis regulation is proposed in which the elevated level of unpolymerized tubulin in drug-treated cells inhibits the formation of new tubulin mRNA and the preexisting message decays rapidly. In agreement with this model, tubulin message is found to be short-lived and has an approximately 2 hr half-life in cells treated with actinomycin D. Another prediction of the proposed model is that destabilization of microtubules without a concomitant increase in free tubulin will not inhibit tubulin synthesis. Vinblastine also disrupts microtubules but leads to the aggregation of tubulin into large paracrystals with an apparent decrease in the concentration of free tubulin. This drug does not inhibit tubulin production but rather leads to a measurable enhancement of tubulin synthesis.", "PMID": 455467} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11701", "title": "H-Y binding in the gonad: inhibition by a supernatant of the fetal ovary.", "content": "H-Y antigen, the product of mammalian testis-determining genes, is released in the free state by testicular cells. Molecules of free H-Y antigen are bound in vitro by dispersed cells of the adult ovary. The binding reaction is inhibited by specific H-Y antibody. It is also inhibited by a diffusible factor of the newly differentiated fetal ovary. These observations favor the view that testicular organogenesis depend upon dissemination and binding of H-Y molecules by cells of the undifferentiated gonad (XY or XX, both having H-Y receptors), and raise the question of whether ovarian organogenesis may be promoted by a \"female\" molecule corresponding to H-Y of the male.", "contents": "H-Y binding in the gonad: inhibition by a supernatant of the fetal ovary. H-Y antigen, the product of mammalian testis-determining genes, is released in the free state by testicular cells. Molecules of free H-Y antigen are bound in vitro by dispersed cells of the adult ovary. The binding reaction is inhibited by specific H-Y antibody. It is also inhibited by a diffusible factor of the newly differentiated fetal ovary. These observations favor the view that testicular organogenesis depend upon dissemination and binding of H-Y molecules by cells of the undifferentiated gonad (XY or XX, both having H-Y receptors), and raise the question of whether ovarian organogenesis may be promoted by a \"female\" molecule corresponding to H-Y of the male.", "PMID": 455468} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11702", "title": "Reiteration frequency of the gene coding for the small subunit of ribulose--1,5--bisphosphate carboxylase.", "content": "The messenger RNA coding for the precursor of the small subunit of ribulose--1,5--bisphosphate (Ru-P2) carboxylase has been partially purified from pea leaves. The mRNA has a size of 11.5S, is approximately 800 nucleotides long and, on cell-free translation, directs the synthesis of a single major polypeptide of 20,000 daltons. Antiserum for the small subunit of Ru-P2 carboxylase immunoprecipitated 52% of the 35S--methionine-labeled cell-free translation products. The RNA hybridizes with pea DNA with monophasic kinetics corresponding to the presence of one, or very few, gene copies per haploid genome.", "contents": "Reiteration frequency of the gene coding for the small subunit of ribulose--1,5--bisphosphate carboxylase. The messenger RNA coding for the precursor of the small subunit of ribulose--1,5--bisphosphate (Ru-P2) carboxylase has been partially purified from pea leaves. The mRNA has a size of 11.5S, is approximately 800 nucleotides long and, on cell-free translation, directs the synthesis of a single major polypeptide of 20,000 daltons. Antiserum for the small subunit of Ru-P2 carboxylase immunoprecipitated 52% of the 35S--methionine-labeled cell-free translation products. The RNA hybridizes with pea DNA with monophasic kinetics corresponding to the presence of one, or very few, gene copies per haploid genome.", "PMID": 455470} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11703", "title": "Alleles of the fibroin gene coding for proteins of different lengths.", "content": "Bombyx mori silkworms producing fibroin proteins of different lengths have been analyzed genetically and shown to possess variant alleles of a single fibroin gene. The structures of two alleles have been compared by using restriction endonuclease sites inside and outsite the fibroin gene as physical markers. We find that fibroins distinguishable on the basis of length are encoded by genes with different internal structures and overall lengths. Our results strongly support the idea that rearrangements within the highly repetitive sequences of the fibroin gene are the result of unequal recombination, and can give rise to variant fibroin genes with altered coding lengths.", "contents": "Alleles of the fibroin gene coding for proteins of different lengths. Bombyx mori silkworms producing fibroin proteins of different lengths have been analyzed genetically and shown to possess variant alleles of a single fibroin gene. The structures of two alleles have been compared by using restriction endonuclease sites inside and outsite the fibroin gene as physical markers. We find that fibroins distinguishable on the basis of length are encoded by genes with different internal structures and overall lengths. Our results strongly support the idea that rearrangements within the highly repetitive sequences of the fibroin gene are the result of unequal recombination, and can give rise to variant fibroin genes with altered coding lengths.", "PMID": 455471} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11704", "title": "An abundant androgen-regulated mRNA in the mouse kidney.", "content": "We have identified an abundant 20,000 dalton protein (KAP) by in vitro translation of male mouse kidney mRNA. This protein is synthesized in reduced amounts from female kidney mRNA. A KAP cDNA fragment was purified and used for nucleic acid hybridization studies. Females and castrated males have 10 and 200 fold lower levels, respectively, of KAP mRNA relative to males. The administration of testosterone to females or castrated males results in the induction of KAP mRNA to normal male levels. Testicular feminized (Tfm) mice have 3 fold lower levels of KAP mRNA relative to normal males and are not induced by testosterone. KAP mRNA is not found in significant amounts in tissues other than the kidney, and the KAP gene renatures with kinetics similar to single-copy DNA. With the rapidly expanding knowledge of mouse genetics, KAP should prove useful in determining genetic factors which regulate the inducibility and tissue specificity of a hormonally regulated gene.", "contents": "An abundant androgen-regulated mRNA in the mouse kidney. We have identified an abundant 20,000 dalton protein (KAP) by in vitro translation of male mouse kidney mRNA. This protein is synthesized in reduced amounts from female kidney mRNA. A KAP cDNA fragment was purified and used for nucleic acid hybridization studies. Females and castrated males have 10 and 200 fold lower levels, respectively, of KAP mRNA relative to males. The administration of testosterone to females or castrated males results in the induction of KAP mRNA to normal male levels. Testicular feminized (Tfm) mice have 3 fold lower levels of KAP mRNA relative to normal males and are not induced by testosterone. KAP mRNA is not found in significant amounts in tissues other than the kidney, and the KAP gene renatures with kinetics similar to single-copy DNA. With the rapidly expanding knowledge of mouse genetics, KAP should prove useful in determining genetic factors which regulate the inducibility and tissue specificity of a hormonally regulated gene.", "PMID": 455472} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11705", "title": "Role of prolactin the the expression of casein genes in the virgin rabbit.", "content": "Prolactin was injected into mature virgin rabbits. Casein mRNA, already present prior to the treatment was enhanced by prolactin. This accumulation of casein mRNA was not accompanied by a parallel significant synthesis of casein. Th effect of prolactin took place without a previous cellular multiplication. The mammary cell is therefore sensitive to prolactin before the first pregnancy but prolactin then displays only an abortive effect on the expression of casein genes.", "contents": "Role of prolactin the the expression of casein genes in the virgin rabbit. Prolactin was injected into mature virgin rabbits. Casein mRNA, already present prior to the treatment was enhanced by prolactin. This accumulation of casein mRNA was not accompanied by a parallel significant synthesis of casein. Th effect of prolactin took place without a previous cellular multiplication. The mammary cell is therefore sensitive to prolactin before the first pregnancy but prolactin then displays only an abortive effect on the expression of casein genes.", "PMID": 455473} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11706", "title": "Protein synthesis and differentiation in a clonal line of teratocarcinoma and in preimplantation mouse embryo.", "content": "Undifferentiated cells of a clonal line of teratocarcinoma can differentiate in vitro into embryoid bodies with morphological and biochemical features of early mouse embryo. During the first step of differentiation protein synthesis has been analysed by 2 dimensional gel electrophoresis. While new proteins are synthesized, the synthesis of others turned off with the appearance of endodermal cells in embryoid bodies. We have compared protein synthesis during teratocarcinoma differentiation and during early mouse embryogenesis at three stages of mouse preimplantation embryo. The results demonstrate that only the late blastocyst protein synthesis pattern shows most of the polypeptides identified in the differentiated protein synthesis pattern of teratocarcinoma. In contrast, protein synthesis during the early stages of mouse embryonic development is very different from protein synthesis in undifferentiated teratocarcinoma.", "contents": "Protein synthesis and differentiation in a clonal line of teratocarcinoma and in preimplantation mouse embryo. Undifferentiated cells of a clonal line of teratocarcinoma can differentiate in vitro into embryoid bodies with morphological and biochemical features of early mouse embryo. During the first step of differentiation protein synthesis has been analysed by 2 dimensional gel electrophoresis. While new proteins are synthesized, the synthesis of others turned off with the appearance of endodermal cells in embryoid bodies. We have compared protein synthesis during teratocarcinoma differentiation and during early mouse embryogenesis at three stages of mouse preimplantation embryo. The results demonstrate that only the late blastocyst protein synthesis pattern shows most of the polypeptides identified in the differentiated protein synthesis pattern of teratocarcinoma. In contrast, protein synthesis during the early stages of mouse embryonic development is very different from protein synthesis in undifferentiated teratocarcinoma.", "PMID": 455474} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11707", "title": "Cell proliferation in the mouse parotid gland after unilateral parotidectomy.", "content": "Unilateral parotidectomy with or without total submandibulectomy has been used to induce cell proliferation in mouse parotid gland. Maximum DNA synthesis and mitosis were recorded four and five days after the operation. The double operation increased the proliferative response. Such proliferative stimulii was not accompanied by secretion and was sex independent. On the other hand, the response decreased with age. RNA and protein synthesis inhibitors showed that the stimulation of DNA synthesis depends on early protein synthesis, which seems to be synthesized on a preexisting template.", "contents": "Cell proliferation in the mouse parotid gland after unilateral parotidectomy. Unilateral parotidectomy with or without total submandibulectomy has been used to induce cell proliferation in mouse parotid gland. Maximum DNA synthesis and mitosis were recorded four and five days after the operation. The double operation increased the proliferative response. Such proliferative stimulii was not accompanied by secretion and was sex independent. On the other hand, the response decreased with age. RNA and protein synthesis inhibitors showed that the stimulation of DNA synthesis depends on early protein synthesis, which seems to be synthesized on a preexisting template.", "PMID": 455486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11708", "title": "Activation of lymphocytes by concanavalin A requires calcium ions.", "content": "Mouse spleen cells were exposed to a short pulse of the mitogenic lectin concanavalin A (con A). After removal of con A mitogenesis was measured by the incorporation of tritiated thymidine into DNA. It was found: (a) the number of cells responding to con A was proportional to the time of exposure to con A; (b) exposure of cells to con A in the absence of extracellular calcium failed to initiate mitogenesis; (c) for a mitogenic effect an extracellular calcium concentration greater than 10(-5)M was required during the time that the cells were exposed to con A.", "contents": "Activation of lymphocytes by concanavalin A requires calcium ions. Mouse spleen cells were exposed to a short pulse of the mitogenic lectin concanavalin A (con A). After removal of con A mitogenesis was measured by the incorporation of tritiated thymidine into DNA. It was found: (a) the number of cells responding to con A was proportional to the time of exposure to con A; (b) exposure of cells to con A in the absence of extracellular calcium failed to initiate mitogenesis; (c) for a mitogenic effect an extracellular calcium concentration greater than 10(-5)M was required during the time that the cells were exposed to con A.", "PMID": 455487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11709", "title": "Diminution of L cell microvilli following exposure to 25-hydroxycholesterol.", "content": "The effect of sterol depletion on the topology of mouse L cells was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Treatment of cells with 25-hydroxycholesterol inhibited the synthesis of cellular sterol and diminished the number of microvilli on the cell surface. Simultaneous addition of mevalonic acid or cholesterol to cells during treatment with the inhibitor prevented the loss of microvilli. These results demonstrate that cholesterol is important in maintaining the ultrastructure of the surface membrane of nucleated mammalian cells.", "contents": "Diminution of L cell microvilli following exposure to 25-hydroxycholesterol. The effect of sterol depletion on the topology of mouse L cells was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Treatment of cells with 25-hydroxycholesterol inhibited the synthesis of cellular sterol and diminished the number of microvilli on the cell surface. Simultaneous addition of mevalonic acid or cholesterol to cells during treatment with the inhibitor prevented the loss of microvilli. These results demonstrate that cholesterol is important in maintaining the ultrastructure of the surface membrane of nucleated mammalian cells.", "PMID": 455488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11710", "title": "Tetrahymena cells secrete a low-molecular weight factor which inhibits RNA synthesis in vivo and in vitro.", "content": "Medium which has been dialyzed against a dense population of Tetrahymena cells contains a factor which reduces the rate of RNA synthesis in other Tetrahymena cells inoculated on that medium. Furthermore, this extracellular factor inhibits the ribosomal RNA synthesis in vitro when added to an RNA synthesizing r-chromatin preparation.", "contents": "Tetrahymena cells secrete a low-molecular weight factor which inhibits RNA synthesis in vivo and in vitro. Medium which has been dialyzed against a dense population of Tetrahymena cells contains a factor which reduces the rate of RNA synthesis in other Tetrahymena cells inoculated on that medium. Furthermore, this extracellular factor inhibits the ribosomal RNA synthesis in vitro when added to an RNA synthesizing r-chromatin preparation.", "PMID": 455489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11711", "title": "On the occurrence and significance of annulate lamellae in gastrodermal cells of regenerating planarians.", "content": "Cytoplasmic annulate lamellae have been observed to occur only in a subset of the gastrodermal cell population of regenerating planarians. They have not been found in the gastrodermal cells of intact, non-injured worms, nor in any other somatic cell type. These observations plus the presence of numerous chromatoid bodies in the same cells are consistent with the hypothesis that these cells are altering their state of differentiation and are preparing for division. It is further suggested that these cells are the precursors to the definitive somatic stem cells, the beta cells.", "contents": "On the occurrence and significance of annulate lamellae in gastrodermal cells of regenerating planarians. Cytoplasmic annulate lamellae have been observed to occur only in a subset of the gastrodermal cell population of regenerating planarians. They have not been found in the gastrodermal cells of intact, non-injured worms, nor in any other somatic cell type. These observations plus the presence of numerous chromatoid bodies in the same cells are consistent with the hypothesis that these cells are altering their state of differentiation and are preparing for division. It is further suggested that these cells are the precursors to the definitive somatic stem cells, the beta cells.", "PMID": 455490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11712", "title": "Chloride permeability of sea urchin eggs.", "content": "We have examined the content and permeability of chloride in sea urchin eggs. After fertilization there is a large increase in the permeability to chloride. We discuss the mechanism underlying this permeability change and the generalized increase in ion permeability observed after fertilization.", "contents": "Chloride permeability of sea urchin eggs. We have examined the content and permeability of chloride in sea urchin eggs. After fertilization there is a large increase in the permeability to chloride. We discuss the mechanism underlying this permeability change and the generalized increase in ion permeability observed after fertilization.", "PMID": 455491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11713", "title": "Development of the sarcotubular system in fusion-arrested myoblasts.", "content": "We have compared the effect of two different procedures, equally effective in preventing muscle cell fusion in culture, on the development of the sarcotubular system in rat muscle cells. Whereas in myoblasts grown in low Ca++ medium the T system was poorly developed and diadic or triadic couplings between T tubules and sarcoplasmic reticulum were rare, in cytochalasin B-treated myoblasts the development of the sarcotubular system was comparable to that seen in myotubes of the same age. We conclude that (a) muscle cell fusion is not essential for the development of the sarcotubular system, and (b) procedures used to prevent cell fusion in vitro may affect directly muscle cell differentiation by a process independent of the fusion block.", "contents": "Development of the sarcotubular system in fusion-arrested myoblasts. We have compared the effect of two different procedures, equally effective in preventing muscle cell fusion in culture, on the development of the sarcotubular system in rat muscle cells. Whereas in myoblasts grown in low Ca++ medium the T system was poorly developed and diadic or triadic couplings between T tubules and sarcoplasmic reticulum were rare, in cytochalasin B-treated myoblasts the development of the sarcotubular system was comparable to that seen in myotubes of the same age. We conclude that (a) muscle cell fusion is not essential for the development of the sarcotubular system, and (b) procedures used to prevent cell fusion in vitro may affect directly muscle cell differentiation by a process independent of the fusion block.", "PMID": 455492} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11714", "title": "Association of human chromosome 14 with a ts defect in G1 of Chinese hamster K12 cells.", "content": "Somatic cell hybrids between human lymphoblastoid cells (Raji) and temperature-sensitive Chinese hamster cells (K12) were selected from monolayer cultures in MEM at 40 degrees C. A total of 21 hybrid clones were isolated and karyotyped. All clones contained a near complete set of Chinese hamster chromosomes and 1 to 5 human chromosomes. Human chromosome 14 present in the hybrid cells of all clones; and was the only human chromosome retained in 10 clones. The presence of human chromosome 14 in hybrids was further confirmed by the demonstration of human nucleoside phosphorylase activity in the hybrid cells. Only one hybrid clone was positive for EBNA, the Epstein-Barr virus antigen present in Raji cells. These findings indicate that human chromosome 14 contains the necessary information for the K12 cells to overcome their G1 defect in the cell cycle and grow at non-permissive temperature. The present study lends strong support to the possibility that different steps in the G1 phase of the cell cycle are controlled by genes located on different chromosomes.", "contents": "Association of human chromosome 14 with a ts defect in G1 of Chinese hamster K12 cells. Somatic cell hybrids between human lymphoblastoid cells (Raji) and temperature-sensitive Chinese hamster cells (K12) were selected from monolayer cultures in MEM at 40 degrees C. A total of 21 hybrid clones were isolated and karyotyped. All clones contained a near complete set of Chinese hamster chromosomes and 1 to 5 human chromosomes. Human chromosome 14 present in the hybrid cells of all clones; and was the only human chromosome retained in 10 clones. The presence of human chromosome 14 in hybrids was further confirmed by the demonstration of human nucleoside phosphorylase activity in the hybrid cells. Only one hybrid clone was positive for EBNA, the Epstein-Barr virus antigen present in Raji cells. These findings indicate that human chromosome 14 contains the necessary information for the K12 cells to overcome their G1 defect in the cell cycle and grow at non-permissive temperature. The present study lends strong support to the possibility that different steps in the G1 phase of the cell cycle are controlled by genes located on different chromosomes.", "PMID": 455493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11715", "title": "[Edwards' syndrome].", "content": "Two cases of Edwards' syndrome were observed. One occurred in a girl aged 6 months, the other in a male neonate. The two children showed a highly characteristic appearance of both the face and the extremities, so that it arouse suspicion of 18-chromosomy. The latter was confirmed by a postmortem cytogenetic examination. The syndrome also includes malformations of inner organs and microscopical architectural changes of organs, which occurred in both the cases described, but different in type.", "contents": "[Edwards' syndrome]. Two cases of Edwards' syndrome were observed. One occurred in a girl aged 6 months, the other in a male neonate. The two children showed a highly characteristic appearance of both the face and the extremities, so that it arouse suspicion of 18-chromosomy. The latter was confirmed by a postmortem cytogenetic examination. The syndrome also includes malformations of inner organs and microscopical architectural changes of organs, which occurred in both the cases described, but different in type.", "PMID": 455513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11716", "title": "[Cystic degeneration of adventitia].", "content": "A description is presented of the cystic degeneration of the adventitia of the external iliac and femoral arteries. Numerous cysts in the adventitia compressed the arterial lumen and resulted in thrombotic occlusion. The histologic picture was similar to that of tendinous sheath ganglion. A list is given of cases already described with a discussion of the views concerning its aetiology and pathogenesis.", "contents": "[Cystic degeneration of adventitia]. A description is presented of the cystic degeneration of the adventitia of the external iliac and femoral arteries. Numerous cysts in the adventitia compressed the arterial lumen and resulted in thrombotic occlusion. The histologic picture was similar to that of tendinous sheath ganglion. A list is given of cases already described with a discussion of the views concerning its aetiology and pathogenesis.", "PMID": 455514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11717", "title": "[Solid dendritic angiosarcomas (of the hemangioendothelioma and hemangiopericytoma types in the differential diagnosis of malignant lymphomas)].", "content": "A group of 11 cases was used for the closer follow-up of an extraskeletal tumour lik Ewing's sarcoma (9). While mostly soft tissues were affected, its localization was variegated. Throughout the long-term follow-up period there was only one case of non-relapse after extirpation. Most of the tumours became generalized within three years. One exceptional case involved generalization after 13 years. The tumour reveals a mostly solid, seemingly organoid pattern, always, however, with reticular foci or sinusoid in nature. The cells, round or dendritic in appearance, have numerous intercellular connections with Weibel Palade granules occasionally demonstrable in their cytoplasm. In foci of peritheliomatous appearance, such as may exceptionally predominate in the tumour, the tumour cells become elongated, contain an abundance of endoplasmic reticulum, and make up a system of integrated basal membranes. According to its structural and cytological properties, the tumour has the nature of angiosarcoma, mostly of the endothelial type, frequently assuming the nature of the pericytic variant. These transitional structural properties just as the tumour' biological behaviour are unlike Ewing's sarcoma and, for that reason, a change of the name is proposed.", "contents": "[Solid dendritic angiosarcomas (of the hemangioendothelioma and hemangiopericytoma types in the differential diagnosis of malignant lymphomas)]. A group of 11 cases was used for the closer follow-up of an extraskeletal tumour lik Ewing's sarcoma (9). While mostly soft tissues were affected, its localization was variegated. Throughout the long-term follow-up period there was only one case of non-relapse after extirpation. Most of the tumours became generalized within three years. One exceptional case involved generalization after 13 years. The tumour reveals a mostly solid, seemingly organoid pattern, always, however, with reticular foci or sinusoid in nature. The cells, round or dendritic in appearance, have numerous intercellular connections with Weibel Palade granules occasionally demonstrable in their cytoplasm. In foci of peritheliomatous appearance, such as may exceptionally predominate in the tumour, the tumour cells become elongated, contain an abundance of endoplasmic reticulum, and make up a system of integrated basal membranes. According to its structural and cytological properties, the tumour has the nature of angiosarcoma, mostly of the endothelial type, frequently assuming the nature of the pericytic variant. These transitional structural properties just as the tumour' biological behaviour are unlike Ewing's sarcoma and, for that reason, a change of the name is proposed.", "PMID": 455515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11718", "title": "[Clear-cell carcinoma of the thyroid gland].", "content": "The case of a 66-year old woman is presented involving the partial transformation of follicular carcinoma with a solid somponent into clear-cell carcinoma of the thyroid gland. The carcinoma in its follicular component was seen invading the capsule, striated muscle, and vessels, and metastasizing in the form of a solitary metastasis into the ilium. Postmortem examination ruled out any other aetiology of the clear-cell carcinoma.", "contents": "[Clear-cell carcinoma of the thyroid gland]. The case of a 66-year old woman is presented involving the partial transformation of follicular carcinoma with a solid somponent into clear-cell carcinoma of the thyroid gland. The carcinoma in its follicular component was seen invading the capsule, striated muscle, and vessels, and metastasizing in the form of a solitary metastasis into the ilium. Postmortem examination ruled out any other aetiology of the clear-cell carcinoma.", "PMID": 455516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11719", "title": "[Immune complexes in sudden and violent deaths].", "content": "Immunocomplexes in the blood serum of 115 autopsied subjects chosen at random were examined by means of the Pegikem test. Average values of 34.9 +/- 44.6 were found in a group of 57 suddenly died subjects while those of 51.3 +/- 76.2 were seen in a group of 58 subjects dead due to injury. The possibility of the determination of immunocomplexes for postmortem diagnosis of immune conditions are discussed.", "contents": "[Immune complexes in sudden and violent deaths]. Immunocomplexes in the blood serum of 115 autopsied subjects chosen at random were examined by means of the Pegikem test. Average values of 34.9 +/- 44.6 were found in a group of 57 suddenly died subjects while those of 51.3 +/- 76.2 were seen in a group of 58 subjects dead due to injury. The possibility of the determination of immunocomplexes for postmortem diagnosis of immune conditions are discussed.", "PMID": 455517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11720", "title": "[Indroduction of minicomputers into instrumental chromatographic technics].", "content": "Research in and development of computer techniques and large-scale integration technology have made considerable progress over the past thirty years. Examples of the development of gas chromatography, highly effective liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry apparatures are given to show the most up-to-date equipment enabling, in combination with computer tecniques, modernization, automation and economical retrieval and processing of the results of investigations. The authors discuss the uses of microcomputers, in particular the so called scientific programming pocket calculator and their anticipated contribution. There are also examples of automatic apparatus application, particularly those for therpay monitoring, i.e. primarily the estimation of the levels of certain highly effective drugs, or drugs with undesirable side-effects (e.g. diphenylhydantoin drugs, barbiturates, aminoplvyllin, etc.).", "contents": "[Indroduction of minicomputers into instrumental chromatographic technics]. Research in and development of computer techniques and large-scale integration technology have made considerable progress over the past thirty years. Examples of the development of gas chromatography, highly effective liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry apparatures are given to show the most up-to-date equipment enabling, in combination with computer tecniques, modernization, automation and economical retrieval and processing of the results of investigations. The authors discuss the uses of microcomputers, in particular the so called scientific programming pocket calculator and their anticipated contribution. There are also examples of automatic apparatus application, particularly those for therpay monitoring, i.e. primarily the estimation of the levels of certain highly effective drugs, or drugs with undesirable side-effects (e.g. diphenylhydantoin drugs, barbiturates, aminoplvyllin, etc.).", "PMID": 455518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11721", "title": "Binding of beryllium to nuclear acidic proteins.", "content": "In vitro beryllium (Be) binding to rat liver nuclei has been reassessed (KAss = 2.0 X 10(6) M: n = 17 nmol Be/mg protein). Be also binds to rat liver nucleoli (KAss approx. 4 X 10(6) M: n = 10 nmol Be/mg protein). Examination of rat liver chromatin fractionated on a hydroxyapatite column shows that Be does not bind to histone or to the non-histone protein eluted by 0.05 M sodium phosphate. Be is strongly bound to the non-histone proteins eluted by 0.2 M sodium phosphate (KAss = 1.1 X 10(6) M: n = 55 nmol Be/mg protein) and also to the same extent to the fraction containing DNA which is subsequently eluted from the column. Evidence is provided that the latter binding is not due to DNA. The fractions containing the Be-binding proteins also contain the proteins which are phosphorylated to the greater extent.", "contents": "Binding of beryllium to nuclear acidic proteins. In vitro beryllium (Be) binding to rat liver nuclei has been reassessed (KAss = 2.0 X 10(6) M: n = 17 nmol Be/mg protein). Be also binds to rat liver nucleoli (KAss approx. 4 X 10(6) M: n = 10 nmol Be/mg protein). Examination of rat liver chromatin fractionated on a hydroxyapatite column shows that Be does not bind to histone or to the non-histone protein eluted by 0.05 M sodium phosphate. Be is strongly bound to the non-histone proteins eluted by 0.2 M sodium phosphate (KAss = 1.1 X 10(6) M: n = 55 nmol Be/mg protein) and also to the same extent to the fraction containing DNA which is subsequently eluted from the column. Evidence is provided that the latter binding is not due to DNA. The fractions containing the Be-binding proteins also contain the proteins which are phosphorylated to the greater extent.", "PMID": 455565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11722", "title": "The interaction of aquated cis-[(NH3)2Pt(II)]with nucleic acid constituents. II. Modified nucleosides.", "content": "The binding interaction of aquated cis-(NH3)2Pt(II) with 1-methylguanosine (1-MeGuo), 7-methylguanosine (7-MeGuo), 1-methyladenosine (1-MeAdo+) and protonated adenosine has been studied using UV difference spectroscopy. The magnitude of the binding constants for the 1 : 1 interaction of cis-(NH3)2Pt(II) with 1-MeDuo and 1-MeAdo are log K = 3.5 and 3.7, respectively. These data are presented and compared to other cis-(NH3)2Pt(II)-nucleoside interactions.", "contents": "The interaction of aquated cis-[(NH3)2Pt(II)]with nucleic acid constituents. II. Modified nucleosides. The binding interaction of aquated cis-(NH3)2Pt(II) with 1-methylguanosine (1-MeGuo), 7-methylguanosine (7-MeGuo), 1-methyladenosine (1-MeAdo+) and protonated adenosine has been studied using UV difference spectroscopy. The magnitude of the binding constants for the 1 : 1 interaction of cis-(NH3)2Pt(II) with 1-MeDuo and 1-MeAdo are log K = 3.5 and 3.7, respectively. These data are presented and compared to other cis-(NH3)2Pt(II)-nucleoside interactions.", "PMID": 455566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11723", "title": "Synthesis, properties and reactions of 3 beta-benzoyloxy-7 alpha-15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-ene.", "content": "Treatment of 3 beta-benzoyloxy-14 alpha,15 alpha-epoxy-5 alpha-cholest-7-ene (I) with gaseous HCl in chloroform at -40 degrees C gave, in 87% yield, 3 beta-benzoyloxy-7 alpha,15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha cholest-8(14)-ene (III). Reduction of the latter compound with lithium aluminum hydride in ether at room temperature for 20 min gave, in 86% yield, 7 alpha-15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-3 beta-ol (IV). The latter compound was fully characterized and assignments of the individual carbon peaks in the 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of this sterol have been completed. Reduction of III with excess lithium aluminum hydride in refluxing ether for 4 days gave, in 74% yield, 5 alpha-cholesta-7,14-dien-3 beta-ol (VI). Reduction of the dichloro-steryl benzoate III with lithium triethylborohydride in tetrahydrofuran gave, in 88% yield, 5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-3 beta-ol (VII). A similar reduction using lithium triethylborodeuteride led to the formation of [7 beta, 15 xi-2 H2]-VIIa. Treatment of III with concentrated HCl in a mixture of chloroform and methanol gave, in 79% yield, 3 beta-benzoyloxy-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-15-one (II) which was characterized as such and as the corresponding free sterol.", "contents": "Synthesis, properties and reactions of 3 beta-benzoyloxy-7 alpha-15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-ene. Treatment of 3 beta-benzoyloxy-14 alpha,15 alpha-epoxy-5 alpha-cholest-7-ene (I) with gaseous HCl in chloroform at -40 degrees C gave, in 87% yield, 3 beta-benzoyloxy-7 alpha,15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha cholest-8(14)-ene (III). Reduction of the latter compound with lithium aluminum hydride in ether at room temperature for 20 min gave, in 86% yield, 7 alpha-15 beta-dichloro-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-3 beta-ol (IV). The latter compound was fully characterized and assignments of the individual carbon peaks in the 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of this sterol have been completed. Reduction of III with excess lithium aluminum hydride in refluxing ether for 4 days gave, in 74% yield, 5 alpha-cholesta-7,14-dien-3 beta-ol (VI). Reduction of the dichloro-steryl benzoate III with lithium triethylborohydride in tetrahydrofuran gave, in 88% yield, 5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-3 beta-ol (VII). A similar reduction using lithium triethylborodeuteride led to the formation of [7 beta, 15 xi-2 H2]-VIIa. Treatment of III with concentrated HCl in a mixture of chloroform and methanol gave, in 79% yield, 3 beta-benzoyloxy-5 alpha-cholest-8(14)-en-15-one (II) which was characterized as such and as the corresponding free sterol.", "PMID": 455568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11724", "title": "Digestion and absorption of trioleoyl-thioglycerol in the rat.", "content": "A triacylglycerol analogue, rac-1,2-di-O-oleoyl-3-S-oleoyl-3-thioglycerol, was fed to rats and chyle acylglycerols were analyzed. Triacylglycerol was the dominating chyle lipid but X-triacyl-1-thioglycerol constituted approx. 6% of total chyle lipids. Its identity was verified by ultraviolet and mass spectra and its stereochemical structure by ORD and CD. The proportions of triacyl-1-thio-sn-glycerol/triacyl-3-thio-sn-glycerol were 63/37 and 78/22 in two experiments. Possible reasons for this stereospecificity are discussed. The study shows that the stereochemical configuration of lipids isolated from biological material can be assessed by ORD and CD.", "contents": "Digestion and absorption of trioleoyl-thioglycerol in the rat. A triacylglycerol analogue, rac-1,2-di-O-oleoyl-3-S-oleoyl-3-thioglycerol, was fed to rats and chyle acylglycerols were analyzed. Triacylglycerol was the dominating chyle lipid but X-triacyl-1-thioglycerol constituted approx. 6% of total chyle lipids. Its identity was verified by ultraviolet and mass spectra and its stereochemical structure by ORD and CD. The proportions of triacyl-1-thio-sn-glycerol/triacyl-3-thio-sn-glycerol were 63/37 and 78/22 in two experiments. Possible reasons for this stereospecificity are discussed. The study shows that the stereochemical configuration of lipids isolated from biological material can be assessed by ORD and CD.", "PMID": 455567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11725", "title": "Evaluation of cardiac activity and pharmacokinetic analysis of 3H-adriamycin in patients pretreated with beta-methyldigoxin.", "content": "The consequences at the cardiac level of adriamycin treatment alone or in association with the cardiac glycoside beta-methyldigoxin, were evaluated with reference to the PEP/LVET ratio, heart rate, and minimum blood pressure. The variation usually seen in the PEP/LVET ratio when adriamycin is administered alone was not observed when pretreatment with beta-methyldigoxin was also given. A similar situation is found with variations in blood pressure and heart rate. From a pharmacokinetic point of view, this treatment scheme does not seem to affect the general behavior of the antibiotic.", "contents": "Evaluation of cardiac activity and pharmacokinetic analysis of 3H-adriamycin in patients pretreated with beta-methyldigoxin. The consequences at the cardiac level of adriamycin treatment alone or in association with the cardiac glycoside beta-methyldigoxin, were evaluated with reference to the PEP/LVET ratio, heart rate, and minimum blood pressure. The variation usually seen in the PEP/LVET ratio when adriamycin is administered alone was not observed when pretreatment with beta-methyldigoxin was also given. A similar situation is found with variations in blood pressure and heart rate. From a pharmacokinetic point of view, this treatment scheme does not seem to affect the general behavior of the antibiotic.", "PMID": 455570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11726", "title": "Antitumor activity of some microbial and chemical transformation products of anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol).", "content": "The in vivo antitumor activities, as measured by inhibition of transplanted P-388 and L-1210 leukemia in mice, have been determined for a series of analogs of anguidine including triacetoxyscirpenol, the three diacetoxyscirpenols, the three monoacetoxyscirpenols, and scirpenetriol. An acetoxy function at position 15 appears to be required for good activity.", "contents": "Antitumor activity of some microbial and chemical transformation products of anguidine (4,15-diacetoxyscirpene-3-ol). The in vivo antitumor activities, as measured by inhibition of transplanted P-388 and L-1210 leukemia in mice, have been determined for a series of analogs of anguidine including triacetoxyscirpenol, the three diacetoxyscirpenols, the three monoacetoxyscirpenols, and scirpenetriol. An acetoxy function at position 15 appears to be required for good activity.", "PMID": 455572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11727", "title": "Features and prognosis of chemotherapy-treated Hodgkin's disease with initial bone marrow involvement.", "content": "The features and prognosis of Hodgkin's disease with bone marrow involvement were studied in a series of 53 patients. This form of the disease is characterized by the high incidence of clinical and biological signs reflecting disease activity, common cytopenia (which is rare in other forms), an increased incidence of the lymphocyte depletion histologic type, and extensive lymphoid involvement, often with splenomegaly. In bone marrow biopsy specimens, Sternberg-Reed cells are found in 80% of cases and fibrosis is common, though it always disappears if remission is achieved. Chemotherapy, essentially with the MOPP combination, produced an 82% remission rate with 44% complete remission (CR). Hematologic toxicity was relatively severe in patients with marrow fibrosis. Recurrence occurred in 14 of the 39 remissions and was either localized and successfully treated by complementary radiotherapy, or diffuse and beyond any form of therapy. In nine cases, the first sign of recurrence was observed in the lymph node group initially most affected. Among the 18 patients treated by reinduction chemotherapy, four recurrences were observed. However, there was only one recurrence among the 12 patients who achieved CR and none among those who had received complementary radiotherapy. The long-term prognosis is similar to that of other visceral forms, and if CR is achieved the chance of maintaining the remission is 83% after the first year, with a follow-up exceeding 6 years.", "contents": "Features and prognosis of chemotherapy-treated Hodgkin's disease with initial bone marrow involvement. The features and prognosis of Hodgkin's disease with bone marrow involvement were studied in a series of 53 patients. This form of the disease is characterized by the high incidence of clinical and biological signs reflecting disease activity, common cytopenia (which is rare in other forms), an increased incidence of the lymphocyte depletion histologic type, and extensive lymphoid involvement, often with splenomegaly. In bone marrow biopsy specimens, Sternberg-Reed cells are found in 80% of cases and fibrosis is common, though it always disappears if remission is achieved. Chemotherapy, essentially with the MOPP combination, produced an 82% remission rate with 44% complete remission (CR). Hematologic toxicity was relatively severe in patients with marrow fibrosis. Recurrence occurred in 14 of the 39 remissions and was either localized and successfully treated by complementary radiotherapy, or diffuse and beyond any form of therapy. In nine cases, the first sign of recurrence was observed in the lymph node group initially most affected. Among the 18 patients treated by reinduction chemotherapy, four recurrences were observed. However, there was only one recurrence among the 12 patients who achieved CR and none among those who had received complementary radiotherapy. The long-term prognosis is similar to that of other visceral forms, and if CR is achieved the chance of maintaining the remission is 83% after the first year, with a follow-up exceeding 6 years.", "PMID": 455574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11728", "title": "Some effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on bone marrow stem cells. I. The long-term effects of phase-specific drugs on mouse bone marrow stem cells.", "content": "Two phase-specific drugs, cytosine arabinoside and hydroxyurea, were studied with regard to their effects on various murine hematologic cell compartments of the same mouse. Effects of single and multiple injections of Ara-C were compared. Following a significant decrease in the first few days, and a subsequent overshoot of pluripotential stem cells (CFU-S), colony-forming cells (CFC), bone marrow nucleated cells, and leukocytes, the number of these cells returned to normal values with a time sequence that varied with the cell type. During the 6-month observation period the number of these cells oscillated around control values after both drugs and both types of protocols.", "contents": "Some effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on bone marrow stem cells. I. The long-term effects of phase-specific drugs on mouse bone marrow stem cells. Two phase-specific drugs, cytosine arabinoside and hydroxyurea, were studied with regard to their effects on various murine hematologic cell compartments of the same mouse. Effects of single and multiple injections of Ara-C were compared. Following a significant decrease in the first few days, and a subsequent overshoot of pluripotential stem cells (CFU-S), colony-forming cells (CFC), bone marrow nucleated cells, and leukocytes, the number of these cells returned to normal values with a time sequence that varied with the cell type. During the 6-month observation period the number of these cells oscillated around control values after both drugs and both types of protocols.", "PMID": 455575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11729", "title": "Some effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on bone marrow stem cells. II. Effect on non-Hodgkin lymphoma chemotherapy on various hemopoietic compartments of the mouse.", "content": "The non-Hodgkin lymphoma chemotherapy protocol used at the Gustave-Roussy Institute was adapted, in terms of drug doses and interval between doses, to normal CBA mice. The numbers of pluripotential stem cells (CFU-S), unipotential stem cells (CFC), differentiated bone marrow cells, and circulating white cells were determined. Eight hours after each drug of the first chemotherapy cycle the number of pluripotent stem cells decreased while the proportion of these cells in DNA synthesis increased. Six hours after the end of each complete cycle, the stem cell compartments were found to be considerably depleted, and they were not completely restored when the next cycle was begun, while the other hematologic compartments were completely restored at this time.", "contents": "Some effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on bone marrow stem cells. II. Effect on non-Hodgkin lymphoma chemotherapy on various hemopoietic compartments of the mouse. The non-Hodgkin lymphoma chemotherapy protocol used at the Gustave-Roussy Institute was adapted, in terms of drug doses and interval between doses, to normal CBA mice. The numbers of pluripotential stem cells (CFU-S), unipotential stem cells (CFC), differentiated bone marrow cells, and circulating white cells were determined. Eight hours after each drug of the first chemotherapy cycle the number of pluripotent stem cells decreased while the proportion of these cells in DNA synthesis increased. Six hours after the end of each complete cycle, the stem cell compartments were found to be considerably depleted, and they were not completely restored when the next cycle was begun, while the other hematologic compartments were completely restored at this time.", "PMID": 455576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11730", "title": "Effect of some cytostatics on the haemopoietic stem cells (CFUs) in blood.", "content": "The effect of some cell-cycle stage-specific cytostatics on the pluripotent stem cells (CFUs) present in the blood was investigated. The amount of these cells in the blood responds markedly and very quickly to a single administration of any of these drugs. Their effects on the circulating CFUs allowed the drugs tested to be divided into groups: (1) Hydroxyurea and arabinosyl cytosine induced a profound decrease in the number of CFUs in the blood, which was followed by a return to the normal value and an overshoot that lasted several days; (2) Colchicine, vinblastine, vincristine, and methotrexate first induced an increase in the number of CFUs in the blood, which was followed by a decrease to below the normal values, and still later an overshoot that lasted several days. The preliminary data on the effect of hydroxyurea on the CFUs circulating in large quantities in the blood of mice with Friend virus leukaemia indicate that the tumorous stem cells (CFUs) might respond to these cytostatics in a similar way.", "contents": "Effect of some cytostatics on the haemopoietic stem cells (CFUs) in blood. The effect of some cell-cycle stage-specific cytostatics on the pluripotent stem cells (CFUs) present in the blood was investigated. The amount of these cells in the blood responds markedly and very quickly to a single administration of any of these drugs. Their effects on the circulating CFUs allowed the drugs tested to be divided into groups: (1) Hydroxyurea and arabinosyl cytosine induced a profound decrease in the number of CFUs in the blood, which was followed by a return to the normal value and an overshoot that lasted several days; (2) Colchicine, vinblastine, vincristine, and methotrexate first induced an increase in the number of CFUs in the blood, which was followed by a decrease to below the normal values, and still later an overshoot that lasted several days. The preliminary data on the effect of hydroxyurea on the CFUs circulating in large quantities in the blood of mice with Friend virus leukaemia indicate that the tumorous stem cells (CFUs) might respond to these cytostatics in a similar way.", "PMID": 455577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11731", "title": "Reduction of glutathione levels in livers of mice treated with N,N'-bis (2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosourea.", "content": "N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU), N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-(trans-4-methylcyclohexyl)-N-nitrosourea (methylCCNU), and N,N'-bis(2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosourea (BCNU) were examined for their effect on glutathione (GSH) levels of various tissues of normal and L1210-leukemic mice. BCNU produced significant decreases in the GSH levels of livers of both groups, but caused no change in the GSH content of the L1210 tumor or in the lungs. The GSH content of the kidneys of L1210 tumor-bearing mice, however, was significantly decreased by BCNU at early time points. A small increase in the liver content of oxidized glutathione could not account for the decrease content of GSH. Methyl CCNU and MNU were without effect on any of the tissues examined. These data are consistent with our previous observation that BCNU is a substrate for GSH S-transferase, and suggest that a GSH-dependent process is an important pathway for the metabolism of BCNU.", "contents": "Reduction of glutathione levels in livers of mice treated with N,N'-bis (2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosourea. N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU), N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-(trans-4-methylcyclohexyl)-N-nitrosourea (methylCCNU), and N,N'-bis(2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosourea (BCNU) were examined for their effect on glutathione (GSH) levels of various tissues of normal and L1210-leukemic mice. BCNU produced significant decreases in the GSH levels of livers of both groups, but caused no change in the GSH content of the L1210 tumor or in the lungs. The GSH content of the kidneys of L1210 tumor-bearing mice, however, was significantly decreased by BCNU at early time points. A small increase in the liver content of oxidized glutathione could not account for the decrease content of GSH. Methyl CCNU and MNU were without effect on any of the tissues examined. These data are consistent with our previous observation that BCNU is a substrate for GSH S-transferase, and suggest that a GSH-dependent process is an important pathway for the metabolism of BCNU.", "PMID": 455578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11732", "title": "Vindesine. A clinical trial with special reference to neurological side effects.", "content": "A good tumoricidal activity of vindesine (VDS) has been reported in a variety of animal tumors and in human leukemias and lymphomas. We treated 22 patients who had received no prior chemotherapy and were suffering from a variety of malignant neoplasms with 0.5 mg/m2 to 3.0 mg/m2 VDS i. v. once or three times at weekly intervals and recorded the clinical, hematologic, and especially, neurological side effects. Clinically we observed fatigue in nine patients, paresthesias in seven, myalgias in three, vertigo and diarrhea in two, and skin pains, tinnitus, gastric pains, alopecia, and tremor in one patient each. There was no obvious dose-action relationship. Paravenous injection caused cellulitis similar to that seen with vincristine. No side effects were apparent in liver (SGPT) and renal (creatinine) function tests. Hematologically there was a clear trend toward leukopenia with higher doses of DVA and a mean increase in the thrombocyte count by 51 X 10(3)/mm3 was found (sign test: P greater than 0.05). The hemoglobin level did not change. Clinical neurological examination and monitoring by electroneurography revealed no changes in tensiometer performance, motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity, motor or sensory nerve action potential amplitudes, or H-reflex responses. There was dose-related diminution of the proprioceptive reflexes, especially in the lower extremities. Even with as little as 2.0 mg/m2 VDS i. v. at weekly intervals for 3 weeks Achilles and patellar tendon reflexes were diminished or absent in all patients.", "contents": "Vindesine. A clinical trial with special reference to neurological side effects. A good tumoricidal activity of vindesine (VDS) has been reported in a variety of animal tumors and in human leukemias and lymphomas. We treated 22 patients who had received no prior chemotherapy and were suffering from a variety of malignant neoplasms with 0.5 mg/m2 to 3.0 mg/m2 VDS i. v. once or three times at weekly intervals and recorded the clinical, hematologic, and especially, neurological side effects. Clinically we observed fatigue in nine patients, paresthesias in seven, myalgias in three, vertigo and diarrhea in two, and skin pains, tinnitus, gastric pains, alopecia, and tremor in one patient each. There was no obvious dose-action relationship. Paravenous injection caused cellulitis similar to that seen with vincristine. No side effects were apparent in liver (SGPT) and renal (creatinine) function tests. Hematologically there was a clear trend toward leukopenia with higher doses of DVA and a mean increase in the thrombocyte count by 51 X 10(3)/mm3 was found (sign test: P greater than 0.05). The hemoglobin level did not change. Clinical neurological examination and monitoring by electroneurography revealed no changes in tensiometer performance, motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity, motor or sensory nerve action potential amplitudes, or H-reflex responses. There was dose-related diminution of the proprioceptive reflexes, especially in the lower extremities. Even with as little as 2.0 mg/m2 VDS i. v. at weekly intervals for 3 weeks Achilles and patellar tendon reflexes were diminished or absent in all patients.", "PMID": 455581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11733", "title": "Correlation of the clinical neurotoxicity of the vinca alkaloids vincristine, vinblastine, and vindesine with their effects on cultured rat midbrain cells.", "content": "Clinical experience with three vinca alkaloids currently in use as antineoplastic agents has shown a difference in the degree of peripheral neurotoxicity manifested by these compounds: vincristine greater than vindesine greater than vinblastine. This phenomenon may reflect differences in pharmacokinetics and/or the differential response of the nerve tissue itself. Differences in pharmacokinetics can be avoided by studying the direct effects of the vinca alkaloids on primary cultures of neuronal and glial cells. Vincristine at a dose as low as 0.004 microgram/ml affects the cells with processes in cultures of dissociated newborn rat midbrain. In 3-day-old cultures, after 24 h of drug treatment there is a loss of processes and swelling of the cell body. We have used this observation as the basis for a quantitative assay of the toxicity of a series of vinca compounds, and have found that for a dose range of 0.1--0.004 microgram/ml the relative toxicity of vincristine, vinblastine, and vindesine in this system correlates with their relative clinical neurotoxicity. Validation of the predictive elements of this system awaits clinical experience with novel vinca compounds.", "contents": "Correlation of the clinical neurotoxicity of the vinca alkaloids vincristine, vinblastine, and vindesine with their effects on cultured rat midbrain cells. Clinical experience with three vinca alkaloids currently in use as antineoplastic agents has shown a difference in the degree of peripheral neurotoxicity manifested by these compounds: vincristine greater than vindesine greater than vinblastine. This phenomenon may reflect differences in pharmacokinetics and/or the differential response of the nerve tissue itself. Differences in pharmacokinetics can be avoided by studying the direct effects of the vinca alkaloids on primary cultures of neuronal and glial cells. Vincristine at a dose as low as 0.004 microgram/ml affects the cells with processes in cultures of dissociated newborn rat midbrain. In 3-day-old cultures, after 24 h of drug treatment there is a loss of processes and swelling of the cell body. We have used this observation as the basis for a quantitative assay of the toxicity of a series of vinca compounds, and have found that for a dose range of 0.1--0.004 microgram/ml the relative toxicity of vincristine, vinblastine, and vindesine in this system correlates with their relative clinical neurotoxicity. Validation of the predictive elements of this system awaits clinical experience with novel vinca compounds.", "PMID": 455582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11734", "title": "Clinical pharmacokinetics of vindesine.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of vindesine were investigated in five patients with advanced cancer who were described by a triphasic serum decay curve compatible with a three-compartment open mammillary model. Serum half-lives were 2 min, 50 min, and 24 h for the fast, middle, and slow phases, respectively. The volume of the central compartment approximated the plasma volume in all patients studied. Distribution occurred quickly into a superficial tissue compartment in fairly rapid equilibrium with the plasma compartment, and also into a deep tissue compartment with slower redistribution to the central compartment. The large apparent volume of distribution and long elimination half-live suggest extensive tissue sequestration or delayed excretion of the drug in man. The slightly increased serum half-life of vindesine compared with published results for vinblastine may account for the greater degree and longer duration of marrow suppression seen clinically with vindesine.", "contents": "Clinical pharmacokinetics of vindesine. The pharmacokinetics of vindesine were investigated in five patients with advanced cancer who were described by a triphasic serum decay curve compatible with a three-compartment open mammillary model. Serum half-lives were 2 min, 50 min, and 24 h for the fast, middle, and slow phases, respectively. The volume of the central compartment approximated the plasma volume in all patients studied. Distribution occurred quickly into a superficial tissue compartment in fairly rapid equilibrium with the plasma compartment, and also into a deep tissue compartment with slower redistribution to the central compartment. The large apparent volume of distribution and long elimination half-live suggest extensive tissue sequestration or delayed excretion of the drug in man. The slightly increased serum half-life of vindesine compared with published results for vinblastine may account for the greater degree and longer duration of marrow suppression seen clinically with vindesine.", "PMID": 455583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11735", "title": "Vindesine as a single agent in the treatment of advanced malignant melanoma.", "content": "The antitumour effect of vindesine (desacetyl vinvlastine amide sulfate) in disseminated malignant melanoma has been investigated in our oncology service in a phase-II study. Of 25 patients exposed to the drug, 23 were evaluable, and seven of these (30%) were considered objective responders. The observed response of malignant effusions is of particular interest. Side effects related to vindesine are similar to those of the other vinca alkaloids, although alopecia may be more pronounced with the doses used in this study.", "contents": "Vindesine as a single agent in the treatment of advanced malignant melanoma. The antitumour effect of vindesine (desacetyl vinvlastine amide sulfate) in disseminated malignant melanoma has been investigated in our oncology service in a phase-II study. Of 25 patients exposed to the drug, 23 were evaluable, and seven of these (30%) were considered objective responders. The observed response of malignant effusions is of particular interest. Side effects related to vindesine are similar to those of the other vinca alkaloids, although alopecia may be more pronounced with the doses used in this study.", "PMID": 455584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11736", "title": "Vindesine in the treatment of breast cancer.", "content": "A phase-II study of vindesine was carried out in 23 patients with histologically proven advanced breast carcinoma. Toxicity was assessed in a further 24 patients with different tumour types. Treatment was given in a starting dose of 3 mg/m2 weekly by IV bolus, increasing by 1 mg weekly as toxicity allowed. The response rate in 21 evaluable patients w-th breast carcinoma was 29%. In 47 patients evaluable for toxicity, leukopaenia occurred in 45% and was dose-related; thrombocytopaenia was rare (4%); neurotoxicity occurred in 40%; constipation in 17%, alopoecia in 46% and an influenza-like syndrome in 21%. It was concluded that vindesine was a clinically active agent in breast carcinoma, with a spectrum of toxicity lying between those of vincristine and vinblastine.", "contents": "Vindesine in the treatment of breast cancer. A phase-II study of vindesine was carried out in 23 patients with histologically proven advanced breast carcinoma. Toxicity was assessed in a further 24 patients with different tumour types. Treatment was given in a starting dose of 3 mg/m2 weekly by IV bolus, increasing by 1 mg weekly as toxicity allowed. The response rate in 21 evaluable patients w-th breast carcinoma was 29%. In 47 patients evaluable for toxicity, leukopaenia occurred in 45% and was dose-related; thrombocytopaenia was rare (4%); neurotoxicity occurred in 40%; constipation in 17%, alopoecia in 46% and an influenza-like syndrome in 21%. It was concluded that vindesine was a clinically active agent in breast carcinoma, with a spectrum of toxicity lying between those of vincristine and vinblastine.", "PMID": 455585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11737", "title": "Phase II evaluation of vindesine in the treatment of colorectal and esophageal tumors.", "content": "A phase II study of vindesine was carried out in 33 patients with colorectal cancer and nine patients with esophageal cancer. With the exception of six previously untreated patients with esophageal cancer, all others were refractory to 5-FU-containing regimens, w,hich included vincristine in ten patients. The initial dose of vindesine was 4 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 30 min every 2 weeks. Tumor regression less than 50% was set patients (six colorectal and two esophageal) achieved minor responses. Prior treatment with vincristine did not seem to influence response to vindesine. In general, the treatment with vindesine was well tolerated. The hematologic toxicity was acceptable and manifested mainly as moderate and transient neutropenia. The major nonhematologic toxicity was peripheral neuropathy, which became limiting. It occurred in 33% of patients who received two or more courses of vindesine. Because of the apparent antitumor activity and dose-limiting neurotoxicity of vindesine in this sutdy, further investigations of this compound should be conducted in combination chemotherapy programs for patients with metastatic gastrointestinal cancers.", "contents": "Phase II evaluation of vindesine in the treatment of colorectal and esophageal tumors. A phase II study of vindesine was carried out in 33 patients with colorectal cancer and nine patients with esophageal cancer. With the exception of six previously untreated patients with esophageal cancer, all others were refractory to 5-FU-containing regimens, w,hich included vincristine in ten patients. The initial dose of vindesine was 4 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 30 min every 2 weeks. Tumor regression less than 50% was set patients (six colorectal and two esophageal) achieved minor responses. Prior treatment with vincristine did not seem to influence response to vindesine. In general, the treatment with vindesine was well tolerated. The hematologic toxicity was acceptable and manifested mainly as moderate and transient neutropenia. The major nonhematologic toxicity was peripheral neuropathy, which became limiting. It occurred in 33% of patients who received two or more courses of vindesine. Because of the apparent antitumor activity and dose-limiting neurotoxicity of vindesine in this sutdy, further investigations of this compound should be conducted in combination chemotherapy programs for patients with metastatic gastrointestinal cancers.", "PMID": 455586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11738", "title": "Vindesine. A review of phase-II trials.", "content": "Vindesine is a new vinca alkaloid with broad-spectrum antineoplastic activity in experimental tumor models. Phase-I studies have shown that a weekly dosage regimen of 3--4 mg/m2 IV produces manageable toxicity, with leukopenia and peripheral neuropathy being dose-limiting. Two hundred seventy-five patients have been enlisted in Phase-II trials at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Major objective responses (complete and partial remissions) were seen in bronchogenic carcinomas, melanoma, testicular carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, acute lymphocytic leukemia, malignant lymphoma (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's) and Wilms' tumor. Patients with hematologic and germ cell neoplasms were treated on a daily administration schedule (1.0--1.3 mg/m2 IV for 5--7 days). Vindesine was well tolerated, with less than 5% of patients having a WBC nadir of less than 1000 cells/mm3 and with a platelet-sparing effect noted. Dose-related peripheral neuropathy occurred frequently and was generally mild to moderate in degree. Vindesine appears to be an active agent whose role will be further defined by completion of ongoing trials.", "contents": "Vindesine. A review of phase-II trials. Vindesine is a new vinca alkaloid with broad-spectrum antineoplastic activity in experimental tumor models. Phase-I studies have shown that a weekly dosage regimen of 3--4 mg/m2 IV produces manageable toxicity, with leukopenia and peripheral neuropathy being dose-limiting. Two hundred seventy-five patients have been enlisted in Phase-II trials at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Major objective responses (complete and partial remissions) were seen in bronchogenic carcinomas, melanoma, testicular carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, acute lymphocytic leukemia, malignant lymphoma (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's) and Wilms' tumor. Patients with hematologic and germ cell neoplasms were treated on a daily administration schedule (1.0--1.3 mg/m2 IV for 5--7 days). Vindesine was well tolerated, with less than 5% of patients having a WBC nadir of less than 1000 cells/mm3 and with a platelet-sparing effect noted. Dose-related peripheral neuropathy occurred frequently and was generally mild to moderate in degree. Vindesine appears to be an active agent whose role will be further defined by completion of ongoing trials.", "PMID": 455587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11739", "title": "Influence of PGE1 on renal function in severe hemorrhagic shock.", "content": "The influence of intravenously administered PGE1 on renal function in standardized hemorrhagic shock in dogs was examined in this study. Infusion rates as high as 1.04 micrograms/min/kg were evaluated. Although arterial blood levels as high as 2.47 ng/ml of plasma compared to control values of less than 0.20 ng/ml were attained during postreinfusion treatment, no beneficial influences on renal functional parameters (hemodynamics, electrolyte and water handling) were observed. In fact, treated animals took up blood from the arterial reservoir more quickly and expired sooner following blood transfusion than an untreated series. A further deleterious change in renal function was a decrease in renal concentrating capability. It is concluded that with the severe grade of hemorrhagic shock employed in these studies, organ blood perfusion was restricted to the extent of limiting effective PGE action.", "contents": "Influence of PGE1 on renal function in severe hemorrhagic shock. The influence of intravenously administered PGE1 on renal function in standardized hemorrhagic shock in dogs was examined in this study. Infusion rates as high as 1.04 micrograms/min/kg were evaluated. Although arterial blood levels as high as 2.47 ng/ml of plasma compared to control values of less than 0.20 ng/ml were attained during postreinfusion treatment, no beneficial influences on renal functional parameters (hemodynamics, electrolyte and water handling) were observed. In fact, treated animals took up blood from the arterial reservoir more quickly and expired sooner following blood transfusion than an untreated series. A further deleterious change in renal function was a decrease in renal concentrating capability. It is concluded that with the severe grade of hemorrhagic shock employed in these studies, organ blood perfusion was restricted to the extent of limiting effective PGE action.", "PMID": 455591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11740", "title": "Correlation between skeletal muscle vascular decompensation and survival: roles of tissue ischemia and innervation.", "content": "A constant-flow, cross-perfused, vascularly isolated gracilis muscle preparation was used to examine the hypothesis that locally produced and released products of ischemic muscle metabolism are responsible for the vascular decompensation (vasodilation) reported to occur in late oligemic hypotension. Well-oxygenated donor arterial blood perfused recipient gacilis muscles at a constant flow rate of 5.2 +/- 0.5 ml/100 gm/min while the recipient animals were subjected to a modified Wigger's hemorrhage protocol. Arterial and venous blood gases taken across the gracilis muscle at regular intervals during the experiments verified adequate tissue perfusion. Of the thirteen studies reported, only ten shocked recipient dogs progressed to irreversible shock postreinfusion. This series was identified as the \"recipient-irreversibly shocked group.\" The remaining three shocked animals recovered from the shock protocol and were labeled \"recipient-reversibly shocked series.\" The initial response to blood loss in both groups was intense vasconstriction, with the greatest initial constriction occurring in the irreversibly shocked series. The three animals that survived the protocol were able to sustain this compensatory effort, but the ten that ultimately progressed into irreversible shock postreinfusion invariably demonstrated a significant loss of vascular tone during late oligemia (conductance rose from 43% to 63% of control). Thus evidence is presented which indicates decompensation during adequate tissue perfusion, or absence of ischemia. A strong correlation was also shown to exist between sustained compensatory vasoconstriction in the gracilis muscle, and survival. The suggestion is made that part of the loss of vascular tone may be related to prejunctional inhibition of adrenergic transmission or alpha-receptor fatigue, with a minor role being played by the vasodepressor products of local tissue ischemia.", "contents": "Correlation between skeletal muscle vascular decompensation and survival: roles of tissue ischemia and innervation. A constant-flow, cross-perfused, vascularly isolated gracilis muscle preparation was used to examine the hypothesis that locally produced and released products of ischemic muscle metabolism are responsible for the vascular decompensation (vasodilation) reported to occur in late oligemic hypotension. Well-oxygenated donor arterial blood perfused recipient gacilis muscles at a constant flow rate of 5.2 +/- 0.5 ml/100 gm/min while the recipient animals were subjected to a modified Wigger's hemorrhage protocol. Arterial and venous blood gases taken across the gracilis muscle at regular intervals during the experiments verified adequate tissue perfusion. Of the thirteen studies reported, only ten shocked recipient dogs progressed to irreversible shock postreinfusion. This series was identified as the \"recipient-irreversibly shocked group.\" The remaining three shocked animals recovered from the shock protocol and were labeled \"recipient-reversibly shocked series.\" The initial response to blood loss in both groups was intense vasconstriction, with the greatest initial constriction occurring in the irreversibly shocked series. The three animals that survived the protocol were able to sustain this compensatory effort, but the ten that ultimately progressed into irreversible shock postreinfusion invariably demonstrated a significant loss of vascular tone during late oligemia (conductance rose from 43% to 63% of control). Thus evidence is presented which indicates decompensation during adequate tissue perfusion, or absence of ischemia. A strong correlation was also shown to exist between sustained compensatory vasoconstriction in the gracilis muscle, and survival. The suggestion is made that part of the loss of vascular tone may be related to prejunctional inhibition of adrenergic transmission or alpha-receptor fatigue, with a minor role being played by the vasodepressor products of local tissue ischemia.", "PMID": 455592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11741", "title": "On the protective role of the liver in the hypotensive state following intestinal ischemia.", "content": "Regional intestinal hypotension (arterial inflow pressure about 30 mmHg) was induced in cats by partially occluding the superior mesenteric artery with an adjustable clamp. The superior mesenteric vein was cannulated and the intestinal venous outflow recorded by a drop counter. The intestinal venous blood bypassed in one series the liver and was returned to the animal via the jugular vein. In two other series it was returned via the portal vein and in one of these also the hepatic arterial pressure was kept at 30 mmHg. Following two hours of regional intestinal shock a general cardiovascular derangement was evident in all series. This was not influenced by directing the intestinal venous blood flow through a normotensive or hypotensive liver. Characteristic intestinal mucosal lesions were found in all series. It is concluded that bypassing or directing the intestinal venous blood through a normotensive or hypotensive liver did not affect the local and general cardiovascular effects of regional intestinal hypotension.", "contents": "On the protective role of the liver in the hypotensive state following intestinal ischemia. Regional intestinal hypotension (arterial inflow pressure about 30 mmHg) was induced in cats by partially occluding the superior mesenteric artery with an adjustable clamp. The superior mesenteric vein was cannulated and the intestinal venous outflow recorded by a drop counter. The intestinal venous blood bypassed in one series the liver and was returned to the animal via the jugular vein. In two other series it was returned via the portal vein and in one of these also the hepatic arterial pressure was kept at 30 mmHg. Following two hours of regional intestinal shock a general cardiovascular derangement was evident in all series. This was not influenced by directing the intestinal venous blood flow through a normotensive or hypotensive liver. Characteristic intestinal mucosal lesions were found in all series. It is concluded that bypassing or directing the intestinal venous blood through a normotensive or hypotensive liver did not affect the local and general cardiovascular effects of regional intestinal hypotension.", "PMID": 455593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11742", "title": "Analysing parent-child interactions in clinical practice: the development of a procedure and method of reporting.", "content": "Research in child developmental psychology is concerning itself increasingly with the fine-grain study of infant-caregiver interactions and as a result awareness of the importance of early interaction patterns in the development of children has grown very rapidly. The research has been based on an observational approach made possible by the use of video-recording and the development of sophisticated methods of interaction analysis. The methods employed and the research findings have important implications for those working clinically with young handicapped children and their parents, but as yet the research methods have been too complex and time-consuming to be used directly in practice. This paper describes the development of a procedure which can be used to observe and analyse the interactions of pre-school handicapped children with their caregivers in a clinical setting, using modifications of existing research methods and based on current findings. Examples of the coding procedure, transcript sheet and reporting methods are given in the context of a pilot application. It is suggested that the approach is valuable as a conceptual framework which the observer can use to improve his observational skills, provides a sound base for assessment and remediation work and can incorporate new research findings as they become available.", "contents": "Analysing parent-child interactions in clinical practice: the development of a procedure and method of reporting. Research in child developmental psychology is concerning itself increasingly with the fine-grain study of infant-caregiver interactions and as a result awareness of the importance of early interaction patterns in the development of children has grown very rapidly. The research has been based on an observational approach made possible by the use of video-recording and the development of sophisticated methods of interaction analysis. The methods employed and the research findings have important implications for those working clinically with young handicapped children and their parents, but as yet the research methods have been too complex and time-consuming to be used directly in practice. This paper describes the development of a procedure which can be used to observe and analyse the interactions of pre-school handicapped children with their caregivers in a clinical setting, using modifications of existing research methods and based on current findings. Examples of the coding procedure, transcript sheet and reporting methods are given in the context of a pilot application. It is suggested that the approach is valuable as a conceptual framework which the observer can use to improve his observational skills, provides a sound base for assessment and remediation work and can incorporate new research findings as they become available.", "PMID": 455588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11743", "title": "Catecholamines and hemorrhagic shock in awake and anesthetized rats.", "content": "Catecholamines in plasma and tissue were determined during hemorrhagic shock in the rat. Two groups of rats were compared. 1. Awake rats bled to 70 mm Hg for 4 hours. 2. Anesthetized rats (pentobarbital sodium 60 mg/kg) bled to 35 mm Hg for 4 hours. The mortality rate was similar in both groups. The bled volume was also similar. The awake rats responded with tachycardia upon bleeding while the anesthetized rats responded with bradycardia. The basal plasma levels of noradrenaline (NA), adrenaline (A) and dopamine (DA) in the awake rats were 2.87, 4.09, and 0.51 nmol/l respectively and in the anesthetized rats 0.97, 0.54, and 0.56 nmol/l respectively. At the onset of bleeding there was a more rapid increase of plasma A and NA in the awake rats than in the anesthetized rats. In the awake rats plasma A reached its peak value (70 nmol/l) at 1 hour and then decreased, while NA showed a slow continuous rise to 17 nmol/l at 4 hours. In the anesthetized rats plasma A remained at a high level (about 60 nmol/l) between 1 and 4 hours, while there was a continuous rise of NA to 17 nmol/l at 4 hours. In these rats a very high DA level (17 nmol/l) was also found at 4 hours. The tissue content of NA was not significantly decreased in the heart while a significant decrease was seen in the skeletal muscle after bleeding for 4 hours. In the heart there was a substantial increase of A after bleeding. The A content of the adrenals decreased to about 25% of the initial value in the awake animals. The results show that barbiturate anesthesia considerably depresses the initial sympatho-adrenal response to bleeding.", "contents": "Catecholamines and hemorrhagic shock in awake and anesthetized rats. Catecholamines in plasma and tissue were determined during hemorrhagic shock in the rat. Two groups of rats were compared. 1. Awake rats bled to 70 mm Hg for 4 hours. 2. Anesthetized rats (pentobarbital sodium 60 mg/kg) bled to 35 mm Hg for 4 hours. The mortality rate was similar in both groups. The bled volume was also similar. The awake rats responded with tachycardia upon bleeding while the anesthetized rats responded with bradycardia. The basal plasma levels of noradrenaline (NA), adrenaline (A) and dopamine (DA) in the awake rats were 2.87, 4.09, and 0.51 nmol/l respectively and in the anesthetized rats 0.97, 0.54, and 0.56 nmol/l respectively. At the onset of bleeding there was a more rapid increase of plasma A and NA in the awake rats than in the anesthetized rats. In the awake rats plasma A reached its peak value (70 nmol/l) at 1 hour and then decreased, while NA showed a slow continuous rise to 17 nmol/l at 4 hours. In the anesthetized rats plasma A remained at a high level (about 60 nmol/l) between 1 and 4 hours, while there was a continuous rise of NA to 17 nmol/l at 4 hours. In these rats a very high DA level (17 nmol/l) was also found at 4 hours. The tissue content of NA was not significantly decreased in the heart while a significant decrease was seen in the skeletal muscle after bleeding for 4 hours. In the heart there was a substantial increase of A after bleeding. The A content of the adrenals decreased to about 25% of the initial value in the awake animals. The results show that barbiturate anesthesia considerably depresses the initial sympatho-adrenal response to bleeding.", "PMID": 455594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11744", "title": "Meldreth dribble-control project.", "content": "Seven subnormal spastic children aged 15--16 years, who had the additional problem of profuse dribbling, were trained to associate an auditory cue, from a small box pinned to their clothes, with swallowing. A significant reduction in dribble rate was obtained for all children within the first week. This method of dribble control has two advantages: it requires very little professional time, and the child's ability to control his dribbling is emphasized from the beginning.", "contents": "Meldreth dribble-control project. Seven subnormal spastic children aged 15--16 years, who had the additional problem of profuse dribbling, were trained to associate an auditory cue, from a small box pinned to their clothes, with swallowing. A significant reduction in dribble rate was obtained for all children within the first week. This method of dribble control has two advantages: it requires very little professional time, and the child's ability to control his dribbling is emphasized from the beginning.", "PMID": 455589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11745", "title": "Reversal by calcium of rat heart cell dysfunction induced by human sera in septic shock.", "content": "Twenty human sera obtained during the first 24 hours following clinical onset of different septic shocks were evaluated for their effects on electric an mechanical activities of rat heart cell cultures. Possible antagonistic action of calcium was tested on these effects. The results showed that septic shock sera, when compared to normal sera, increased action potential duration and depressed contractility of beating cardiac cells. Addition of calcium reversed these two actions, though markedly higher concentration was needed for depressed contractility. The in vitro deleterious effects of septic shock sera on cell cultures were related neither to decrease in extracellular calcium, since total calcium level was moderately below normal values, nor to inhibition of low calcium channel, since the action potential was not suppressed in presence of K+ excess. This study suggests the involvement of humoral factors mimicking the cardiac effects of low calcium concentration. If calcium is involved in in vitro cardiac dysfunction, it could result only from a decrease of available calcium in cytosol.", "contents": "Reversal by calcium of rat heart cell dysfunction induced by human sera in septic shock. Twenty human sera obtained during the first 24 hours following clinical onset of different septic shocks were evaluated for their effects on electric an mechanical activities of rat heart cell cultures. Possible antagonistic action of calcium was tested on these effects. The results showed that septic shock sera, when compared to normal sera, increased action potential duration and depressed contractility of beating cardiac cells. Addition of calcium reversed these two actions, though markedly higher concentration was needed for depressed contractility. The in vitro deleterious effects of septic shock sera on cell cultures were related neither to decrease in extracellular calcium, since total calcium level was moderately below normal values, nor to inhibition of low calcium channel, since the action potential was not suppressed in presence of K+ excess. This study suggests the involvement of humoral factors mimicking the cardiac effects of low calcium concentration. If calcium is involved in in vitro cardiac dysfunction, it could result only from a decrease of available calcium in cytosol.", "PMID": 455596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11746", "title": "Rate of rise of myocardial PCO2 during early myocardial ischemia in the dog.", "content": "We have investigated the rate of rise of myocardial PCO2 (PmCO2) after coronary artery occlusion using a new method for this measurement. Previous studies of PmCO2 have been limited by the slow response of the only available method, and no increase in MmCO2 prior to 3 minutes after occlusion has been found. We have implanted a miniature PCO2 electrode, with a 63% response time of 14 seconds, into the left ventricle of 14 open-chest dogs. After abrupt coronary occlusion, PmCO2 began to rise in 13.6 +/- 1.1 seconds in heparinized dogs and in 7.5 +/- 0.7 seconds in unheparinized dogs. The subsequent magnitude of the increase in PmCO2 was 24, 88, 171, and 222 mm Hg at 2, 5, 10, and 15 minutes after occlusion. The rate of rise of PmCO2 was essentially linear from 1 minute to 10 minutes at a rate of 18.3 mm Hg/min. The rate of rise was slower during the first 30 seconds after occlusion (6.1 mm Hg/min) and also from 30 seconds to 1 minute (9.7 mm Hg/min). This rate of rise is much greater than that previously observed and reflects the severe myocardial acidosis developing during ischemia. A rise in PmCO2 is one of the earliest metabolic changes that has been observed during myocardial ischemia.", "contents": "Rate of rise of myocardial PCO2 during early myocardial ischemia in the dog. We have investigated the rate of rise of myocardial PCO2 (PmCO2) after coronary artery occlusion using a new method for this measurement. Previous studies of PmCO2 have been limited by the slow response of the only available method, and no increase in MmCO2 prior to 3 minutes after occlusion has been found. We have implanted a miniature PCO2 electrode, with a 63% response time of 14 seconds, into the left ventricle of 14 open-chest dogs. After abrupt coronary occlusion, PmCO2 began to rise in 13.6 +/- 1.1 seconds in heparinized dogs and in 7.5 +/- 0.7 seconds in unheparinized dogs. The subsequent magnitude of the increase in PmCO2 was 24, 88, 171, and 222 mm Hg at 2, 5, 10, and 15 minutes after occlusion. The rate of rise of PmCO2 was essentially linear from 1 minute to 10 minutes at a rate of 18.3 mm Hg/min. The rate of rise was slower during the first 30 seconds after occlusion (6.1 mm Hg/min) and also from 30 seconds to 1 minute (9.7 mm Hg/min). This rate of rise is much greater than that previously observed and reflects the severe myocardial acidosis developing during ischemia. A rise in PmCO2 is one of the earliest metabolic changes that has been observed during myocardial ischemia.", "PMID": 455597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11747", "title": "Decreased myocardial contractility in papillary muscles from atherosclerotic rabbits.", "content": "To determine the effect atherosclerosis has on myocardial contractility, we studied the contractile properties of right ventricular papillary muscles from 34 atherosclerotic and 17 control rabbits. We produced atherosclerosis by feeding for 2 to 8 months a diet of 5% lard, 5% peanut oil, 0.5% cholesterol, and 89.5% rabbit pellets. The controls received only rabbit pellets during the same time interval. Contracting isometrically 12 times per minute at 25 degrees C, muscles from the atherosclerotic rabbits developed tension at a lower maximum rate (max dT/dt), had a longer latency, and required longer to develop tension at the maximum rate and to develop peak tension. In isotonic contractions, they shortened with lower maximum velocities and required longer to accelerate to maximum velocity and to shorten maximally. We found no evidence that developed tension or distance shortened differed between the two groups of muscles. Raising the contraction frequency to 24 contractions per minute between the two groups of muscles. Raising the contraction frequency to 24 contractions per minute brought performance of the two groups of muscles closer in both types of contraction. Norepinephrine (1.5 x 10-5 M) nearly abolished differences between performance of the two groups. The loss of contractility correlates poorly with coronary and aortic atherosclerosis. It occurred early in the feeding of the atherogenic diet. We think it was due to a lipid-induced defect in the cardiac cell's handling of calcium.", "contents": "Decreased myocardial contractility in papillary muscles from atherosclerotic rabbits. To determine the effect atherosclerosis has on myocardial contractility, we studied the contractile properties of right ventricular papillary muscles from 34 atherosclerotic and 17 control rabbits. We produced atherosclerosis by feeding for 2 to 8 months a diet of 5% lard, 5% peanut oil, 0.5% cholesterol, and 89.5% rabbit pellets. The controls received only rabbit pellets during the same time interval. Contracting isometrically 12 times per minute at 25 degrees C, muscles from the atherosclerotic rabbits developed tension at a lower maximum rate (max dT/dt), had a longer latency, and required longer to develop tension at the maximum rate and to develop peak tension. In isotonic contractions, they shortened with lower maximum velocities and required longer to accelerate to maximum velocity and to shorten maximally. We found no evidence that developed tension or distance shortened differed between the two groups of muscles. Raising the contraction frequency to 24 contractions per minute between the two groups of muscles. Raising the contraction frequency to 24 contractions per minute brought performance of the two groups of muscles closer in both types of contraction. Norepinephrine (1.5 x 10-5 M) nearly abolished differences between performance of the two groups. The loss of contractility correlates poorly with coronary and aortic atherosclerosis. It occurred early in the feeding of the atherogenic diet. We think it was due to a lipid-induced defect in the cardiac cell's handling of calcium.", "PMID": 455599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11748", "title": "Normal levels of fibrinopeptide A in patients with primary hyperlipidemia.", "content": "Fibrinopeptide A (FPA) levels were measured in a group of 130 controls and patients with various types of primary hyperlipidemia to investigate whether an increased steady state level of thrombin activity is present in hyperlipidemic patients. In a subset of 56 subjects, levels of clotting factors II, VII, and X were measured as well. FPA levels in hyperlipidemic patients were not significantly different from those of control subjects. Furthermore, on multiple regression analysis, no significant relationships were found between FPA levels and the concentrations of serum cholesterol or triglyceride, or log triglyceride levels. Statistically significant relationships were found between all three clotting factor levels and triglyceride concentration. The correlation coefficients for these relationships, however, were low, so that the correlations are of questionable pathophysiological significance. A weak relationship also was found between the plasma levels of cholesterol and of factor II. Thus, although small increases in various clotting factors may be found in patients with hyperlipidemia, plasma FPA levels are normal. These data indicate that hyperlipidemia is not associated with a steady state of increased thrombin activity in vivo in humans.", "contents": "Normal levels of fibrinopeptide A in patients with primary hyperlipidemia. Fibrinopeptide A (FPA) levels were measured in a group of 130 controls and patients with various types of primary hyperlipidemia to investigate whether an increased steady state level of thrombin activity is present in hyperlipidemic patients. In a subset of 56 subjects, levels of clotting factors II, VII, and X were measured as well. FPA levels in hyperlipidemic patients were not significantly different from those of control subjects. Furthermore, on multiple regression analysis, no significant relationships were found between FPA levels and the concentrations of serum cholesterol or triglyceride, or log triglyceride levels. Statistically significant relationships were found between all three clotting factor levels and triglyceride concentration. The correlation coefficients for these relationships, however, were low, so that the correlations are of questionable pathophysiological significance. A weak relationship also was found between the plasma levels of cholesterol and of factor II. Thus, although small increases in various clotting factors may be found in patients with hyperlipidemia, plasma FPA levels are normal. These data indicate that hyperlipidemia is not associated with a steady state of increased thrombin activity in vivo in humans.", "PMID": 455600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11749", "title": "Effects of ischemia on tissue metabolites in red (slow) and white (fast) skeletal muscle of the chicken.", "content": "Brief periods of ischemia have been shown to produce marked reactive hyperemia in both red (slow) and white (fast) skeletal muscle. However, evidence is lacking for specific vasodilator metabolites which are rapidly produced in ischemic skeletal muscle. The present study examined the effects of 1 and 3 minutes of ischemia on creatine phosphate (CrP), adenine nucleotide metabolism, and anaerobic glycolysis in red anterior (ALD) and white posterior latissimus dorsi (PLD) muscles of the chicken. Tissue metabolite concentrations were determined from perchloric acid or trichloroacetic acid extracts using enzymatic assay or high pressure liquid chromatography. CrP or adenine nucleotides were not significantly altered in either muscle following 1 or 3 minutes of ischemia. However, adenosine increased by 611% in the ALD at 1 minute. Following 3 minutes of ischemia, adenosine concentrations were elevated by 439% and 201% in the ALD and PLD, respectively. The PLD showed the greatest increases in inosine and IMP. Inorganic phosphate increased by 67% and lactate increased by 142% in the ALD at 3 minutes. The PLD, which is reported to have a high anaerobic glycolytic capacity, showed no increase in lactate. These results support the hypothesis that adenosine may be a mediator of akeletal muscle reactive hyperemia following short periods of ischemia.", "contents": "Effects of ischemia on tissue metabolites in red (slow) and white (fast) skeletal muscle of the chicken. Brief periods of ischemia have been shown to produce marked reactive hyperemia in both red (slow) and white (fast) skeletal muscle. However, evidence is lacking for specific vasodilator metabolites which are rapidly produced in ischemic skeletal muscle. The present study examined the effects of 1 and 3 minutes of ischemia on creatine phosphate (CrP), adenine nucleotide metabolism, and anaerobic glycolysis in red anterior (ALD) and white posterior latissimus dorsi (PLD) muscles of the chicken. Tissue metabolite concentrations were determined from perchloric acid or trichloroacetic acid extracts using enzymatic assay or high pressure liquid chromatography. CrP or adenine nucleotides were not significantly altered in either muscle following 1 or 3 minutes of ischemia. However, adenosine increased by 611% in the ALD at 1 minute. Following 3 minutes of ischemia, adenosine concentrations were elevated by 439% and 201% in the ALD and PLD, respectively. The PLD showed the greatest increases in inosine and IMP. Inorganic phosphate increased by 67% and lactate increased by 142% in the ALD at 3 minutes. The PLD, which is reported to have a high anaerobic glycolytic capacity, showed no increase in lactate. These results support the hypothesis that adenosine may be a mediator of akeletal muscle reactive hyperemia following short periods of ischemia.", "PMID": 455603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11750", "title": "Circus movement in canine right ventricle.", "content": "The present study reports on the epicardial spread of excitation during premature beats and during the initial stages of ventricular fibrillation, both of which were induced by single-test stimuli during regional ischemia or local hypothermia. Simultaneous recording of the activity at 48 epicardial sites on the right ventricle of dog hearts enabled us in some instances to demonstrate a circus movement.", "contents": "Circus movement in canine right ventricle. The present study reports on the epicardial spread of excitation during premature beats and during the initial stages of ventricular fibrillation, both of which were induced by single-test stimuli during regional ischemia or local hypothermia. Simultaneous recording of the activity at 48 epicardial sites on the right ventricle of dog hearts enabled us in some instances to demonstrate a circus movement.", "PMID": 455604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11751", "title": "The prolonged pressor response to renin in the nephrectomized rat.", "content": "Angiotension I dose-response curves and renin clearances were studied in nephrectomized and paired sham-nephrectomized control rats under pentobarbital anesthesia. Both threshold and slope of the angiotensin dose-response curves were decreased 22 hours after nephrectomy. In addition, the ratio of renin clearance (determined during renin infusions) in the 22-hour-nephrectomized rat to that in paired 22-hour sham-nephrectomized controls was 0.50 +/- 0.03 (mean +/- SEM, P less than 0.001, n = 12 pairs). The finding of reduced renin clearance was confirmed by an indirect assessment of \"effective renin clearance\" based on a comparison of the blood pressure decline after renin injections with angiotensin I dose-response curves in the same rat. Overall, approximately half of the 50% fall in renin clearance could be accounted for by an immediate effect of removal of the kidney on renin clearance. This role of the kidney in renin clearance was confirmed by the finding of a renal venous-arterial renin ratio of 0.9 +/- 0.03 (P less than 0.005) during renin infusion in normal rats. It is concluded that both changes in the angiotensin I dose-response curve and decrease in plasma renin clearance contribute to the postnephrectomy prolongation of the renin pressor response in the rat.", "contents": "The prolonged pressor response to renin in the nephrectomized rat. Angiotension I dose-response curves and renin clearances were studied in nephrectomized and paired sham-nephrectomized control rats under pentobarbital anesthesia. Both threshold and slope of the angiotensin dose-response curves were decreased 22 hours after nephrectomy. In addition, the ratio of renin clearance (determined during renin infusions) in the 22-hour-nephrectomized rat to that in paired 22-hour sham-nephrectomized controls was 0.50 +/- 0.03 (mean +/- SEM, P less than 0.001, n = 12 pairs). The finding of reduced renin clearance was confirmed by an indirect assessment of \"effective renin clearance\" based on a comparison of the blood pressure decline after renin injections with angiotensin I dose-response curves in the same rat. Overall, approximately half of the 50% fall in renin clearance could be accounted for by an immediate effect of removal of the kidney on renin clearance. This role of the kidney in renin clearance was confirmed by the finding of a renal venous-arterial renin ratio of 0.9 +/- 0.03 (P less than 0.005) during renin infusion in normal rats. It is concluded that both changes in the angiotensin I dose-response curve and decrease in plasma renin clearance contribute to the postnephrectomy prolongation of the renin pressor response in the rat.", "PMID": 455607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11752", "title": "Platelet kinetic studies in patients with hyperlipoproteinemia: effects of clofibrate therapy.", "content": "Studies of platelet and fibrinogen kinetics in 27 patients with hyperlipoproteinemia and 28 control subjects demonstrated shortened platelet survival and increased platelet turnover in seven patients with type III and 10 patients with type IV-V hyperlipoproteinemia (p less than 0.01). There was no correlation between platelet survival time and specific lipid levels, vascular disease, sex or age. Platelet kinetics were not significantly altered from control values in eight patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Platelet aggregation studies and fibrinogen kinetic measurements did not differ in any of the hyperlipoproteinemic groups of patients from those in control subjects. Despite significant changes in plasma lipids induced by clofibrate, platelet survival was significantly extended only in patients with type IV-V hyperlipoproteinemia (p less than 0.05). These results are consistent with the hypothesis that atherogenesis in patients with types III--V hyperlipoproteinemia may be associated with a process of endothelial desquamation, and type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia may involve nondesquamating endothelial injury.", "contents": "Platelet kinetic studies in patients with hyperlipoproteinemia: effects of clofibrate therapy. Studies of platelet and fibrinogen kinetics in 27 patients with hyperlipoproteinemia and 28 control subjects demonstrated shortened platelet survival and increased platelet turnover in seven patients with type III and 10 patients with type IV-V hyperlipoproteinemia (p less than 0.01). There was no correlation between platelet survival time and specific lipid levels, vascular disease, sex or age. Platelet kinetics were not significantly altered from control values in eight patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Platelet aggregation studies and fibrinogen kinetic measurements did not differ in any of the hyperlipoproteinemic groups of patients from those in control subjects. Despite significant changes in plasma lipids induced by clofibrate, platelet survival was significantly extended only in patients with type IV-V hyperlipoproteinemia (p less than 0.05). These results are consistent with the hypothesis that atherogenesis in patients with types III--V hyperlipoproteinemia may be associated with a process of endothelial desquamation, and type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia may involve nondesquamating endothelial injury.", "PMID": 455611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11753", "title": "Platelet function studies in heart disease. VI. Enhanced platelet aggregate formation activity in congestive heart failure: inhibition by sodium nitroprusside.", "content": "We studied 11 patients with congestive heart failure and 10 normal volunteers for in vivo platelet aggregate formation activity. The patients with heart failure had significantly (p less than 0.01) more circulating platelet aggregates than the normal volunteers. During sodium nitroprusside infusion, the number of circulating platelet aggregates declined to normal levels and in vitro platelet aggregation responses to epinephrine and adenosine diphosphate were also suppressed significantly (p less than 0.01). This was associated with a 30% decline in systemic vascular resistance and a 28% increase in cardiac output. In other in vitro experiments, sodium nitroprusside was found to have direct, dose-related platelet aggregation inhibitory actions. This study suggests that an increase in vascular resistance in certain heart failure patients may in part be related to an increase in circulating platelet aggregates. Direct inhibition of platelet aggregation by sodium nitroprusside may be a mechanism of its beneficial effects in heart failure.", "contents": "Platelet function studies in heart disease. VI. Enhanced platelet aggregate formation activity in congestive heart failure: inhibition by sodium nitroprusside. We studied 11 patients with congestive heart failure and 10 normal volunteers for in vivo platelet aggregate formation activity. The patients with heart failure had significantly (p less than 0.01) more circulating platelet aggregates than the normal volunteers. During sodium nitroprusside infusion, the number of circulating platelet aggregates declined to normal levels and in vitro platelet aggregation responses to epinephrine and adenosine diphosphate were also suppressed significantly (p less than 0.01). This was associated with a 30% decline in systemic vascular resistance and a 28% increase in cardiac output. In other in vitro experiments, sodium nitroprusside was found to have direct, dose-related platelet aggregation inhibitory actions. This study suggests that an increase in vascular resistance in certain heart failure patients may in part be related to an increase in circulating platelet aggregates. Direct inhibition of platelet aggregation by sodium nitroprusside may be a mechanism of its beneficial effects in heart failure.", "PMID": 455612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11754", "title": "Left ventricular volume from paired biplane two-dimensional echocardiography.", "content": "To evaluate the applicability of two-dimensional echocardiography to left ventricular volume determination, 30 consecutive patients undergoing biplane left ventricular cineangiography were studied with a wide-angle (84 degrees), phased-array, two-dimensional echocardiographic system. Two echographic projections were used to obtain paired, biplane, tomographic images of the left ventricle. We used the short-axis view (from the precordial window) as an anolog of the left anterior oblique angiogram, and the long-axis, two-chamber view (from the apex impulse window) as a right anterior oblique angiographic equivalent. A modified Simpson's rule formula was used to calculate systolic and diastolic left ventricular volumes from the biplane echogram and the biplane angiogram. These methods correlated well for ejection fraction (r = 0.87) and systolic volume (r = 0.90), but only modestly for diastolic volume (r = 0.80). These correlations are noteworthy because 65% of the patients had significant segmental wall motion abnormalities. The volumes determined from the minor-axis dimensions of M-mode echograms in 23 of the same patients correlated poorly with angiography.", "contents": "Left ventricular volume from paired biplane two-dimensional echocardiography. To evaluate the applicability of two-dimensional echocardiography to left ventricular volume determination, 30 consecutive patients undergoing biplane left ventricular cineangiography were studied with a wide-angle (84 degrees), phased-array, two-dimensional echocardiographic system. Two echographic projections were used to obtain paired, biplane, tomographic images of the left ventricle. We used the short-axis view (from the precordial window) as an anolog of the left anterior oblique angiogram, and the long-axis, two-chamber view (from the apex impulse window) as a right anterior oblique angiographic equivalent. A modified Simpson's rule formula was used to calculate systolic and diastolic left ventricular volumes from the biplane echogram and the biplane angiogram. These methods correlated well for ejection fraction (r = 0.87) and systolic volume (r = 0.90), but only modestly for diastolic volume (r = 0.80). These correlations are noteworthy because 65% of the patients had significant segmental wall motion abnormalities. The volumes determined from the minor-axis dimensions of M-mode echograms in 23 of the same patients correlated poorly with angiography.", "PMID": 455617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11755", "title": "Left ventricular volumes by gated equilibrium radionuclide angiography: a new method.", "content": "To compare radionuclide end-diastolic (EDV) and end-systolic (ESV) volumes with angiographic volume, we studied 52 patients with equilibrium radionuclide angiography using 99mTc-human serum albumin within 48 hours of contrast angiography. Each RR interval was divided into 20--28 equally timed frames and a time-activity curve generated. End-diastolic counts were taken at the early peak of the curve and end-systolic counts at its nadir. Counts were divided by the total number of processed heart beats and normalized for: 1) dose per body surface area; 2) plasma volume; and 3) counts/ml of plasma. A cardiac phantom was developed and serial volumes were studied using a normalization factor. Radionuclide values were expressed as dimensionless units and compared with either biplane angiographic volumes (in the patient studies) or known phantom volumes. Good correlations were obtained with methods 1 and 2 in 35 patients (r greater than 0.84), but the best correlation was obtained in 17 patients when normalization for counts/ml of plasma was used (r = 0.98; y = 0.255 x -0.121). The standard error of the estimate (SEE) was +/- 11.5 ml for EDV and +/- 7.3 ml for ESV. The phantom study also showed an excellent correlation (r = 0.99), with a SEE of +/- 6.5 ml. We conclude that a radionuclide method independent of geometric assumptions can be used to estimate left ventricular volume in man.", "contents": "Left ventricular volumes by gated equilibrium radionuclide angiography: a new method. To compare radionuclide end-diastolic (EDV) and end-systolic (ESV) volumes with angiographic volume, we studied 52 patients with equilibrium radionuclide angiography using 99mTc-human serum albumin within 48 hours of contrast angiography. Each RR interval was divided into 20--28 equally timed frames and a time-activity curve generated. End-diastolic counts were taken at the early peak of the curve and end-systolic counts at its nadir. Counts were divided by the total number of processed heart beats and normalized for: 1) dose per body surface area; 2) plasma volume; and 3) counts/ml of plasma. A cardiac phantom was developed and serial volumes were studied using a normalization factor. Radionuclide values were expressed as dimensionless units and compared with either biplane angiographic volumes (in the patient studies) or known phantom volumes. Good correlations were obtained with methods 1 and 2 in 35 patients (r greater than 0.84), but the best correlation was obtained in 17 patients when normalization for counts/ml of plasma was used (r = 0.98; y = 0.255 x -0.121). The standard error of the estimate (SEE) was +/- 11.5 ml for EDV and +/- 7.3 ml for ESV. The phantom study also showed an excellent correlation (r = 0.99), with a SEE of +/- 6.5 ml. We conclude that a radionuclide method independent of geometric assumptions can be used to estimate left ventricular volume in man.", "PMID": 455618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11756", "title": "Early malfunction of transvenous pacemaker electrodes. A three-center study.", "content": "A 3-year study by three medical centers has revealed a 1-year electrode malfunction rate of 7.4%; most malfunctions occurred within the first 30 days. The incidence of unavoidable early malfunction (3.2%) fell within the 5% standards suggested by the committee report of the Inter-Society Committee on Heart Diseases. Incidences of obscure cause (3.2%) may be difficult to identify prospectively and may be, to a certain extent, unavoidable. The majority of the malfunctions (4.2%) showed specific clues that indicated that they were preventable. Successful repositioning was achieved on the first attempt in 80.6% of the cases with malfunction, and only 0.7% required ultimate myocardial electrode implantation. The principal clues to potentially unsatisfactory positioning included the presence of a large right ventricle with or without tricuspid insufficiency, current thresholds greater than 0.5 mA and ST-segment deviations on the intracardiac electrogram of less than 2 mV. Electrode malfunction may be more common with bipolar than with unipolar electrodes; but significant differences in the incidence of malfunction among different unipolar electrodes were observed. These data indicate that further developments in transvenous electrode design are warranted.", "contents": "Early malfunction of transvenous pacemaker electrodes. A three-center study. A 3-year study by three medical centers has revealed a 1-year electrode malfunction rate of 7.4%; most malfunctions occurred within the first 30 days. The incidence of unavoidable early malfunction (3.2%) fell within the 5% standards suggested by the committee report of the Inter-Society Committee on Heart Diseases. Incidences of obscure cause (3.2%) may be difficult to identify prospectively and may be, to a certain extent, unavoidable. The majority of the malfunctions (4.2%) showed specific clues that indicated that they were preventable. Successful repositioning was achieved on the first attempt in 80.6% of the cases with malfunction, and only 0.7% required ultimate myocardial electrode implantation. The principal clues to potentially unsatisfactory positioning included the presence of a large right ventricle with or without tricuspid insufficiency, current thresholds greater than 0.5 mA and ST-segment deviations on the intracardiac electrogram of less than 2 mV. Electrode malfunction may be more common with bipolar than with unipolar electrodes; but significant differences in the incidence of malfunction among different unipolar electrodes were observed. These data indicate that further developments in transvenous electrode design are warranted.", "PMID": 455622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11757", "title": "The estimation of sinoatrial conduction time in rabbit heart by the constant atrial pacing technique.", "content": "This study compared estimates of sinoatrial conduction time (SACT) obtained by constant atrial pacing (CAP) and premature atrial stimulation (PAS) with measured SACT in isolated rabbit right atrial preparations. Transmembrane potentials and surface electrograms were recorded from the sinus node and crista terminalis, respectively. The crista terminalis was paced 5, 10 and 15 beats/min faster than the spontaneous sinus rate with a train of eight pulses. Estimate of SACT by CAP was taken as the difference between the first atrial return cycle and the mean spontaneous cycle length. SACTs at 5, 10 and 15 beats/min faster were 76 +/- 10, 86 +/- 10 and 96 +/- 10 msec (mean +/- SEM; n = 12), respectively; correlation coefficients with the true SACT were 0.7, 0.54 and 0.4. Consecutive determinations of SACT by PAS and CAP in the same preparation (n = 6) at 10 beats/min faster gave SACTs of 86 +/- 13 and 79 +/- 14 msec, respectively, compared with true SACTs of 79 +/- 10 msec. Shortening of sinus node action potential, depression of automaticity and shifts in the site of the primary pacemaker contributed to the errors in both techniques. Estimation of SACT by CAP may be further complicated by failure of sinus node capture. Principles to minimize some of these errors are also presented.", "contents": "The estimation of sinoatrial conduction time in rabbit heart by the constant atrial pacing technique. This study compared estimates of sinoatrial conduction time (SACT) obtained by constant atrial pacing (CAP) and premature atrial stimulation (PAS) with measured SACT in isolated rabbit right atrial preparations. Transmembrane potentials and surface electrograms were recorded from the sinus node and crista terminalis, respectively. The crista terminalis was paced 5, 10 and 15 beats/min faster than the spontaneous sinus rate with a train of eight pulses. Estimate of SACT by CAP was taken as the difference between the first atrial return cycle and the mean spontaneous cycle length. SACTs at 5, 10 and 15 beats/min faster were 76 +/- 10, 86 +/- 10 and 96 +/- 10 msec (mean +/- SEM; n = 12), respectively; correlation coefficients with the true SACT were 0.7, 0.54 and 0.4. Consecutive determinations of SACT by PAS and CAP in the same preparation (n = 6) at 10 beats/min faster gave SACTs of 86 +/- 13 and 79 +/- 14 msec, respectively, compared with true SACTs of 79 +/- 10 msec. Shortening of sinus node action potential, depression of automaticity and shifts in the site of the primary pacemaker contributed to the errors in both techniques. Estimation of SACT by CAP may be further complicated by failure of sinus node capture. Principles to minimize some of these errors are also presented.", "PMID": 455623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11758", "title": "Reentrant ventricular arrhythmias in the late myocardial infarction period. 7. Effect of verapamil and D-600 and the role of the \"slow channel\".", "content": "Reentrant ventricular arrhythmias (RVA) were analyzed in dogs 3--7 days after ligation of the anterior descending coronary artery using averaged \"composite\" recordings of electrical activity of reentrant pathways (RP) from the epicardial surface of the infarction zone (IZ). Verapamil (V) and D-600 (D) (0.2--0.5 mg/kg i.v.) resulted in slight-to-moderate improvement of conduction in RP with abolition of spontaneous RVA and RVA initiated by premature depolarizations. The effect of V was not blocked by pretreatment with propranolol (0.5 mg/kg i.v.). Using a standard microelectrode technique and strips of epicardial muscle from the IZ, D (0.5--1 X 10(-6) g/ml) slightly improved the upstroke velocity and membrane responses of depressed ischemic cells. In contrast, tetrodotoxin (5 X 10(-7) g/ml) further depressed or abolished action potentials of ischemic cells. We conclude: 1) the moderate antiarrhythmic effect of V and D on RVA is the result of improved conduction in RP; 2) this action is partly explained by improvement of a depressed sodium channel and is not related to catecholamine release; 3) slow-response action potentials play no significant role in the genesis of ischemia-related RVA, which probably results from depression of the fast response.", "contents": "Reentrant ventricular arrhythmias in the late myocardial infarction period. 7. Effect of verapamil and D-600 and the role of the \"slow channel\". Reentrant ventricular arrhythmias (RVA) were analyzed in dogs 3--7 days after ligation of the anterior descending coronary artery using averaged \"composite\" recordings of electrical activity of reentrant pathways (RP) from the epicardial surface of the infarction zone (IZ). Verapamil (V) and D-600 (D) (0.2--0.5 mg/kg i.v.) resulted in slight-to-moderate improvement of conduction in RP with abolition of spontaneous RVA and RVA initiated by premature depolarizations. The effect of V was not blocked by pretreatment with propranolol (0.5 mg/kg i.v.). Using a standard microelectrode technique and strips of epicardial muscle from the IZ, D (0.5--1 X 10(-6) g/ml) slightly improved the upstroke velocity and membrane responses of depressed ischemic cells. In contrast, tetrodotoxin (5 X 10(-7) g/ml) further depressed or abolished action potentials of ischemic cells. We conclude: 1) the moderate antiarrhythmic effect of V and D on RVA is the result of improved conduction in RP; 2) this action is partly explained by improvement of a depressed sodium channel and is not related to catecholamine release; 3) slow-response action potentials play no significant role in the genesis of ischemia-related RVA, which probably results from depression of the fast response.", "PMID": 455624} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11759", "title": "Straddling and displaced atrioventricular orifices and valves.", "content": "This is an anatomic study of 96 hearts with straddling or displaced atrioventricular (AV) valves and orifices. In the complete form, both the annulus and the peripheral connections of either AV valve straddle a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and connect to both ventricles. In the annular form, only the annulus, and in the peripheral type only the peripheral connections of the valve are found in both ventricles. In displaced AV valve, the entire annulus and periphery of one AV valve are displaced into the opposite chamber. These anomalies are commonly seen in complete transposition with or without ventricular inversion, and in double outlet right or left ventricle. Straddling mitral valve is frequently seen in the Taussig-Bing heart. Any type of VSD may be associated with straddling tricuspid valve; however, they usually are of the AV canal type. Straddling and displaced AV valves should be differentiated from criss-cross hearts in which both AV valves are completely connected to oppositely placed ventricles.", "contents": "Straddling and displaced atrioventricular orifices and valves. This is an anatomic study of 96 hearts with straddling or displaced atrioventricular (AV) valves and orifices. In the complete form, both the annulus and the peripheral connections of either AV valve straddle a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and connect to both ventricles. In the annular form, only the annulus, and in the peripheral type only the peripheral connections of the valve are found in both ventricles. In displaced AV valve, the entire annulus and periphery of one AV valve are displaced into the opposite chamber. These anomalies are commonly seen in complete transposition with or without ventricular inversion, and in double outlet right or left ventricle. Straddling mitral valve is frequently seen in the Taussig-Bing heart. Any type of VSD may be associated with straddling tricuspid valve; however, they usually are of the AV canal type. Straddling and displaced AV valves should be differentiated from criss-cross hearts in which both AV valves are completely connected to oppositely placed ventricles.", "PMID": 455627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11760", "title": "Concealed nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia.", "content": "Electrophysiologic studies were performed in a patient who had an apparently uncomplicated complete trifascicular block. His bundle recordings revealed atrioventricular dissociation with: 1) an atrial rate of 58 beats/min, 2) an idioventricular escape rate of 45 beats/min, and 3) nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia (His bundle rhythm) at a rate of 65--85 beats/min. The latter arrhythmia was electrocardiographically silent, influencing neither atrial nor ventricular events. The arrhythmia probably reflected digitalis intoxication (digoxin level of 3.3 ng/ml). A repeat electrophysiologic study 4 days after digoxin was discontinued revealed complete trifascicular block (distal to H) with intact conduction between the atrium and the His bundle (AH of 150 msec). Thus, electrophysiologic study demonstrated an electrocardiographically silent but clinically relevant arrhythmia, suggesting that His bundle recording should be part of diagnostic study during temporary pacemaker implantation in patients with atrioventricular block.", "contents": "Concealed nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia. Electrophysiologic studies were performed in a patient who had an apparently uncomplicated complete trifascicular block. His bundle recordings revealed atrioventricular dissociation with: 1) an atrial rate of 58 beats/min, 2) an idioventricular escape rate of 45 beats/min, and 3) nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia (His bundle rhythm) at a rate of 65--85 beats/min. The latter arrhythmia was electrocardiographically silent, influencing neither atrial nor ventricular events. The arrhythmia probably reflected digitalis intoxication (digoxin level of 3.3 ng/ml). A repeat electrophysiologic study 4 days after digoxin was discontinued revealed complete trifascicular block (distal to H) with intact conduction between the atrium and the His bundle (AH of 150 msec). Thus, electrophysiologic study demonstrated an electrocardiographically silent but clinically relevant arrhythmia, suggesting that His bundle recording should be part of diagnostic study during temporary pacemaker implantation in patients with atrioventricular block.", "PMID": 455629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11761", "title": "Atrial flutter with exit block.", "content": "The mechanism of atrial flutter is controversial. A 76-year-old woman with rheumatic heart disease was referred to our clinic with an unusual rhythm disturbance which initially appeared to be classic atrial flutter at a rate of 300 beats/min. Later tracings, however, demonstrated a rate exactly one-half that of the earlier ECGs, with an identical p-wave morphology and vector. This latter rhythm also behaved in a manner expected for a flutter mechanism in that both spontaneously and with carotid pressure high-degree atrioventricular block occurred without alteration of the underlying atrial mechanism. Finally, the two rates interchanged spontaneously over several days without any significant interval changes in medical therapy. These findings were initially explained as probable digoxin toxicity. The underlying mechanism, however, was more likely atrial flutter with exit block and in this patient may have represented another facet of her sick sinus syndrome. This unusual phenomenon is discussed in terms of previous reports and possible implications for the mechanism of atrial flutter.", "contents": "Atrial flutter with exit block. The mechanism of atrial flutter is controversial. A 76-year-old woman with rheumatic heart disease was referred to our clinic with an unusual rhythm disturbance which initially appeared to be classic atrial flutter at a rate of 300 beats/min. Later tracings, however, demonstrated a rate exactly one-half that of the earlier ECGs, with an identical p-wave morphology and vector. This latter rhythm also behaved in a manner expected for a flutter mechanism in that both spontaneously and with carotid pressure high-degree atrioventricular block occurred without alteration of the underlying atrial mechanism. Finally, the two rates interchanged spontaneously over several days without any significant interval changes in medical therapy. These findings were initially explained as probable digoxin toxicity. The underlying mechanism, however, was more likely atrial flutter with exit block and in this patient may have represented another facet of her sick sinus syndrome. This unusual phenomenon is discussed in terms of previous reports and possible implications for the mechanism of atrial flutter.", "PMID": 455630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11762", "title": "Determination of naproxen and its desmethyl metabolite in human plasma or serum by high performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "1. A liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of the anti-inflammatory agent naproxen and its metabolite, 6-0-desmethyl-naproxen, in human plasma or serum. 2. After addition of p-chlorowarfarin as the internal stardard, plasma is acidified and extracted with either chloroform (for assay of naproxen only) or ethyl acetate (for assay of naproxen and desmethyl-naproxen), the organic solvent is evaporated, the residue is dissolved in acetonitrile and injected onto a reverse phase column coupled with an ultra-violet absorbance detector. 3. Drug and metabolite can be detected readily in concentrations above 2 micrograms per ml in 0.5 ml samples. Salicylic acid and its metabolites and a number of other durgs were found not to interfere with the assay.", "contents": "Determination of naproxen and its desmethyl metabolite in human plasma or serum by high performance liquid chromatography. 1. A liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of the anti-inflammatory agent naproxen and its metabolite, 6-0-desmethyl-naproxen, in human plasma or serum. 2. After addition of p-chlorowarfarin as the internal stardard, plasma is acidified and extracted with either chloroform (for assay of naproxen only) or ethyl acetate (for assay of naproxen and desmethyl-naproxen), the organic solvent is evaporated, the residue is dissolved in acetonitrile and injected onto a reverse phase column coupled with an ultra-violet absorbance detector. 3. Drug and metabolite can be detected readily in concentrations above 2 micrograms per ml in 0.5 ml samples. Salicylic acid and its metabolites and a number of other durgs were found not to interfere with the assay.", "PMID": 455634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11763", "title": "Use of Beckman BUN analysers to determine urine urea.", "content": "In this paper we report a method to enable the Beckman BUN analyser to be used for urine urea nitrogen determinations. Satisfactory urine samples could be obtained by diluting the urine with 10 volumes of 0.85% saline. We also report our experience with the use of reagent prepared in house and with a modified pipette, to reduce the cost of using the instrument.", "contents": "Use of Beckman BUN analysers to determine urine urea. In this paper we report a method to enable the Beckman BUN analyser to be used for urine urea nitrogen determinations. Satisfactory urine samples could be obtained by diluting the urine with 10 volumes of 0.85% saline. We also report our experience with the use of reagent prepared in house and with a modified pipette, to reduce the cost of using the instrument.", "PMID": 455635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11764", "title": "Influence of two preparations of bovine albumin on the total bilirubin as determined by Thomson's method in its reference solution.", "content": "The influence of bovine albumin on the determined total bilirubin was examined by estimation of bilirubin in standard solutions prepared with albumin solutions of five different concentrations. The determinations were made by six different methods. The results show that when bilirubin was determined by Thompson's method the estimated bilirubin decreases by increasing the concentration of albumin. This discrepancy appears in preparations from two different industrial sources of albumin.", "contents": "Influence of two preparations of bovine albumin on the total bilirubin as determined by Thomson's method in its reference solution. The influence of bovine albumin on the determined total bilirubin was examined by estimation of bilirubin in standard solutions prepared with albumin solutions of five different concentrations. The determinations were made by six different methods. The results show that when bilirubin was determined by Thompson's method the estimated bilirubin decreases by increasing the concentration of albumin. This discrepancy appears in preparations from two different industrial sources of albumin.", "PMID": 455636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11765", "title": "Biochemical parameters of normal rabbit serum.", "content": "An attempt was made to establish the normal range of 27 different parameters in the serum of 45 healthy, purebred, New Zealand White rabbits (3-5 kg). The reproducibility of the results was acceptable. Sensitive isoenzyme patterns (LDH, CK) could change, however, significantly if different methods were used in the bleeding procedure. Isoenzyme patterns (LDH and CK) of rabbit sera were different from that of human sera. All obtained results were compared with earlier data sporadically published in literature on rabbits.", "contents": "Biochemical parameters of normal rabbit serum. An attempt was made to establish the normal range of 27 different parameters in the serum of 45 healthy, purebred, New Zealand White rabbits (3-5 kg). The reproducibility of the results was acceptable. Sensitive isoenzyme patterns (LDH, CK) could change, however, significantly if different methods were used in the bleeding procedure. Isoenzyme patterns (LDH and CK) of rabbit sera were different from that of human sera. All obtained results were compared with earlier data sporadically published in literature on rabbits.", "PMID": 455637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11766", "title": "Crossed immuno-electrodiffusion in the diagnosis of immunoglobulin fragment abnormalities.", "content": "The use of crossed immuno-electrodiffusion in the diagnosis of alpha-chain disease is described. The same basic technique is applicable in diagnosis of diseases in which immunoglobulin fragment abnormalities may occur. Crossed immuno-electrodiffusion is shown to be a superior method for demonstrating the abnormaility by providing more powerful resolution. Immunoselection (an adaptation of the classical method of immuno-electrophoresis) or rocket immuno-electrodiffusion both have limitations which are overcome by the use of crossed immuno-electrodiffusion. Mixture of antibodies is avoided by separating antibody-containing gels with interposition of intermediate gel layers free of antibody. Furthermore, precipitin rockets of some specific proteins can also be identified morphologically.", "contents": "Crossed immuno-electrodiffusion in the diagnosis of immunoglobulin fragment abnormalities. The use of crossed immuno-electrodiffusion in the diagnosis of alpha-chain disease is described. The same basic technique is applicable in diagnosis of diseases in which immunoglobulin fragment abnormalities may occur. Crossed immuno-electrodiffusion is shown to be a superior method for demonstrating the abnormaility by providing more powerful resolution. Immunoselection (an adaptation of the classical method of immuno-electrophoresis) or rocket immuno-electrodiffusion both have limitations which are overcome by the use of crossed immuno-electrodiffusion. Mixture of antibodies is avoided by separating antibody-containing gels with interposition of intermediate gel layers free of antibody. Furthermore, precipitin rockets of some specific proteins can also be identified morphologically.", "PMID": 455638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11767", "title": "Gas-chromatographic analysis for chlorpromazine and some of its metabolites in human serum, with use of a nitrogen detector.", "content": "We describe a gas-chromatographic method for measuring chlorpromazine and its metabolites chlorpromazine sulfoxide, mono-N-desmethylchlorpromazine, and di-N-desmethylchlorpromazine at therapeutic concentrations in human serum, with use of a nitrogen detector. The compounds are extracted from serum at pH 10.5 into hexane/isoamyl alcohol, re-extracted into dilute HCl, and then extracted into hexane after alkalinization of the HCl. The N-desmethylated metabolites are measured as their respective N-trifuloracetyl derivatives; the parent drug and its sulfoxide are measured as the unchanged bases. Promazine is the internal standard. As little as 5 micrograms of chlorpromazine, 20 micrograms of chlorpromazine sulfoxide, 20 micrograms of mono-N-desmethylchlorpromazine, and 10 micrograms of di-N-desmethylchlorpromazine per liter can be measured in 2-mL samples of serum. The within-run coefficients of variation for assays of these drugs at 100 micrograms/L are 2.7%, 5.6%, 5.1%, and 5.3%, respectively. The procedure was applied to patients receiving therapeutic doses of chlorpromazine and to patients who had ingested an overdose of chlorpromazine.", "contents": "Gas-chromatographic analysis for chlorpromazine and some of its metabolites in human serum, with use of a nitrogen detector. We describe a gas-chromatographic method for measuring chlorpromazine and its metabolites chlorpromazine sulfoxide, mono-N-desmethylchlorpromazine, and di-N-desmethylchlorpromazine at therapeutic concentrations in human serum, with use of a nitrogen detector. The compounds are extracted from serum at pH 10.5 into hexane/isoamyl alcohol, re-extracted into dilute HCl, and then extracted into hexane after alkalinization of the HCl. The N-desmethylated metabolites are measured as their respective N-trifuloracetyl derivatives; the parent drug and its sulfoxide are measured as the unchanged bases. Promazine is the internal standard. As little as 5 micrograms of chlorpromazine, 20 micrograms of chlorpromazine sulfoxide, 20 micrograms of mono-N-desmethylchlorpromazine, and 10 micrograms of di-N-desmethylchlorpromazine per liter can be measured in 2-mL samples of serum. The within-run coefficients of variation for assays of these drugs at 100 micrograms/L are 2.7%, 5.6%, 5.1%, and 5.3%, respectively. The procedure was applied to patients receiving therapeutic doses of chlorpromazine and to patients who had ingested an overdose of chlorpromazine.", "PMID": 455640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11768", "title": "Chemical assay, involving liquid chromatography, for aminoglycoside antibiotics in serum.", "content": "We describe a chemical assay involving \"high-pressure\" liquid chromatography for the quantitative determination of three aminoglycosides: netilmicin, tobramycin, and gentamicin. The drugs are separated from serum by means of precipitation of the serum proteins with acetonitrile after dilution with a buffer. The aminoglycosides are quantitatively extracted into the supernate, which is further purified by a two-step partition procedure involving derivatization of the drugs with o-phthalaldehyde. The drug derivatives are separated by reversed-phase chromatography and detected by on-line fluorometry. Sensitivity is 1 mg/L for tobramycin and 0.5 mg/L for netilmicin and gentamicin. Intra- and interassay variation was below 8%. Analytical recovery of each of the three drugs was 92 to 100%. Correlation with microbiological and radioimmunological assay methods was good. The assay is rapid (about 30 min), precise, and specific, and seems suitable for use in a routine clinical laboratory.", "contents": "Chemical assay, involving liquid chromatography, for aminoglycoside antibiotics in serum. We describe a chemical assay involving \"high-pressure\" liquid chromatography for the quantitative determination of three aminoglycosides: netilmicin, tobramycin, and gentamicin. The drugs are separated from serum by means of precipitation of the serum proteins with acetonitrile after dilution with a buffer. The aminoglycosides are quantitatively extracted into the supernate, which is further purified by a two-step partition procedure involving derivatization of the drugs with o-phthalaldehyde. The drug derivatives are separated by reversed-phase chromatography and detected by on-line fluorometry. Sensitivity is 1 mg/L for tobramycin and 0.5 mg/L for netilmicin and gentamicin. Intra- and interassay variation was below 8%. Analytical recovery of each of the three drugs was 92 to 100%. Correlation with microbiological and radioimmunological assay methods was good. The assay is rapid (about 30 min), precise, and specific, and seems suitable for use in a routine clinical laboratory.", "PMID": 455641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11769", "title": "Non-chromatographic radioimmunoassay procedure for urinary aldosterone.", "content": "We describe a sensitive, specific, and simple procedure for measuring aldosterone in human urine, which requires no chromatographic purification before quantification by radioimmunoassay but does include hydrolysis and extraction steps. Rabbit anti-aldosterone serum is sued, generated against aldosterone-18,21-dihemisuccinate coupled to human serum albumin. The antibody cross reacted little with other structurally related steroids that are in human urine. Our procedure was validated by comparing values for urinary aldosterone in human urine, with and without preliminary purification by chromatography on either paper (y = 0.92x + 2.9; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01) or (Sephadex LH-20) column (y = 0.98x + 0.6; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01). Values by our procedure also correlated well (y = 1.03x - 0.8; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01) with those obtained with use of a validated commercial \"kit\" for urinary aldosterine. All reagents for the proposed method are available commercially.", "contents": "Non-chromatographic radioimmunoassay procedure for urinary aldosterone. We describe a sensitive, specific, and simple procedure for measuring aldosterone in human urine, which requires no chromatographic purification before quantification by radioimmunoassay but does include hydrolysis and extraction steps. Rabbit anti-aldosterone serum is sued, generated against aldosterone-18,21-dihemisuccinate coupled to human serum albumin. The antibody cross reacted little with other structurally related steroids that are in human urine. Our procedure was validated by comparing values for urinary aldosterone in human urine, with and without preliminary purification by chromatography on either paper (y = 0.92x + 2.9; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01) or (Sephadex LH-20) column (y = 0.98x + 0.6; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01). Values by our procedure also correlated well (y = 1.03x - 0.8; r = 0.99; p less than 0.01) with those obtained with use of a validated commercial \"kit\" for urinary aldosterine. All reagents for the proposed method are available commercially.", "PMID": 455642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11770", "title": "Use of specific inhibitors to disciminate alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes originating from human liver, placenta and intestine: absence of meconial alkaline phosphatase in maternal serum.", "content": "We used the inhibitors bromotetramisole, L-phenylalanine amide, and L-phenylalanine in combination to measure intestinal phosphatase in maternal serum and amniotic fluid. By using high concentrations of these inhibitors, it was possible to measure the three isoenzymes separately. We found no evidence of the presence of meconial alkaline phosphatase in the serum of the mother (six cases) after meconial passage in utero.", "contents": "Use of specific inhibitors to disciminate alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes originating from human liver, placenta and intestine: absence of meconial alkaline phosphatase in maternal serum. We used the inhibitors bromotetramisole, L-phenylalanine amide, and L-phenylalanine in combination to measure intestinal phosphatase in maternal serum and amniotic fluid. By using high concentrations of these inhibitors, it was possible to measure the three isoenzymes separately. We found no evidence of the presence of meconial alkaline phosphatase in the serum of the mother (six cases) after meconial passage in utero.", "PMID": 455643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11771", "title": "Urinary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid as measured by liquid chromatography, with on-line post-column reaction.", "content": "We describe a method for measurement of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid (vanillylmandelic acid, VMA) in urine. After the pH of the urine is adjusted to 2.7 and the sample is filtered, exactly 15 microL is injected onto a C-18 reversed-phase column. VMA is eluted from the column with 10 mmol/L phosphate buffer, pH 2.7, containing 30 mL of acetonitrile per liter. The eluate stream is combined with alkaline periodate and then passed through a 60 degrees C water bath. The VMA is completely oxidized to vanillin, which is detected and quantitiated by its absorbance at 360 nm. No deterioration of the column was noted after 167 such injections of urine samples. Long-term control data indicate a CV of 12 and 10% at VMA concentrations of 1.5 and 5.8 mg/L, respectively. Although results correlate well (r = 0.976) with those by the method of Pisano et al. [Clin. Chim. Acta 7, 285 (1962)], they average 10% lower. Of 20 compounds tested, only methyl dopa interfered with the procedure as described.", "contents": "Urinary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid as measured by liquid chromatography, with on-line post-column reaction. We describe a method for measurement of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid (vanillylmandelic acid, VMA) in urine. After the pH of the urine is adjusted to 2.7 and the sample is filtered, exactly 15 microL is injected onto a C-18 reversed-phase column. VMA is eluted from the column with 10 mmol/L phosphate buffer, pH 2.7, containing 30 mL of acetonitrile per liter. The eluate stream is combined with alkaline periodate and then passed through a 60 degrees C water bath. The VMA is completely oxidized to vanillin, which is detected and quantitiated by its absorbance at 360 nm. No deterioration of the column was noted after 167 such injections of urine samples. Long-term control data indicate a CV of 12 and 10% at VMA concentrations of 1.5 and 5.8 mg/L, respectively. Although results correlate well (r = 0.976) with those by the method of Pisano et al. [Clin. Chim. Acta 7, 285 (1962)], they average 10% lower. Of 20 compounds tested, only methyl dopa interfered with the procedure as described.", "PMID": 455644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11772", "title": "X-ray fluorescence and potentiometry compared for determining iodine content of thyroid glands.", "content": "We compare results for iodine quantitation by x-ray fluorescence of excised thyroid glands with results of the quantitation by means of an original, newly developed chemical method, a Sch\u00f6niger combustion technique, in which iodie is quantitated potentiometrically. Subsequently, we establish the accuracy and clinical suitability of the former technique in quantifying the intrathyroidal iodine.", "contents": "X-ray fluorescence and potentiometry compared for determining iodine content of thyroid glands. We compare results for iodine quantitation by x-ray fluorescence of excised thyroid glands with results of the quantitation by means of an original, newly developed chemical method, a Sch\u00f6niger combustion technique, in which iodie is quantitated potentiometrically. Subsequently, we establish the accuracy and clinical suitability of the former technique in quantifying the intrathyroidal iodine.", "PMID": 455645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11773", "title": "Performance assessment of the GammafloTM automated radioimmunoassay system by assaying for digoxin.", "content": "We report an evaluation of the GammafloTM automated continuous-flow radioimmunoassay instrument in which we used a digoxin assay to assess system performance. System operation was based on combined continuous-flow and column-chromatographic techniques. No drift or carryover was detectable in 180 within-assay consecutive determinations performed at a rate of 42 determinations per hour (5 h of continuous operation). Within-assay and between-assay precision were less than 6% (coefficient of variation). The automated method correlated well (r = 0.960 and 0.952, respectively) with two established manual digoxin radioimmunoassay procedures. The data suggest this automated system offers a valid alternative to manual radioimmunoassay procedures in terms of overall precision, simplicity of operation, and sample throughout capacity.", "contents": "Performance assessment of the GammafloTM automated radioimmunoassay system by assaying for digoxin. We report an evaluation of the GammafloTM automated continuous-flow radioimmunoassay instrument in which we used a digoxin assay to assess system performance. System operation was based on combined continuous-flow and column-chromatographic techniques. No drift or carryover was detectable in 180 within-assay consecutive determinations performed at a rate of 42 determinations per hour (5 h of continuous operation). Within-assay and between-assay precision were less than 6% (coefficient of variation). The automated method correlated well (r = 0.960 and 0.952, respectively) with two established manual digoxin radioimmunoassay procedures. The data suggest this automated system offers a valid alternative to manual radioimmunoassay procedures in terms of overall precision, simplicity of operation, and sample throughout capacity.", "PMID": 455646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11774", "title": "Decreased aminotransferase activity of serum and various tissues in the rat after cefazolin treatment.", "content": "Treatment of rats with cefazolin in vivo significantly suppressed activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases in serum and in the liver, brain, kidney, and heart. Simultaneous administration of pyridoxal further reduced enzyme activity except in the liver, where there was no change. Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate partly reversed the decreased enzyme activity in the serum, liver, and kidney, but did not return it to the amount observed in the control animals; enzyme activity remained suppressed in the brain and heart. The effect of cefazolin was dose related, but there was no sex-related difference. In contrast to its action on am-notransferase activity, cefazolin elicited no effect on alkaline phosphatase (pyridoxal-5'-phosphate hydrolase) in serum or on pyruvate carboxylase in the liver, heart, and kidney. Cefazolin exposed to the hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase system in vitro was partly converted into metabolites that inhibited serum alanine aminotransferase activity in vitro. The latter inhibition was reversed by the addition of pyridoxal 5'-phosphate.", "contents": "Decreased aminotransferase activity of serum and various tissues in the rat after cefazolin treatment. Treatment of rats with cefazolin in vivo significantly suppressed activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases in serum and in the liver, brain, kidney, and heart. Simultaneous administration of pyridoxal further reduced enzyme activity except in the liver, where there was no change. Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate partly reversed the decreased enzyme activity in the serum, liver, and kidney, but did not return it to the amount observed in the control animals; enzyme activity remained suppressed in the brain and heart. The effect of cefazolin was dose related, but there was no sex-related difference. In contrast to its action on am-notransferase activity, cefazolin elicited no effect on alkaline phosphatase (pyridoxal-5'-phosphate hydrolase) in serum or on pyruvate carboxylase in the liver, heart, and kidney. Cefazolin exposed to the hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase system in vitro was partly converted into metabolites that inhibited serum alanine aminotransferase activity in vitro. The latter inhibition was reversed by the addition of pyridoxal 5'-phosphate.", "PMID": 455647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11775", "title": "Creatine kinase B-subunit activity in serum after immunoinhibition of M-subunit activity.", "content": "Creatine kinase (EC 2.7.3.2) B-subunit activity in serum may be routinely measured as residual activity after specific immunoinhibition of the M-subunit. We assessed the inhibition kinetics, specificity, completeness of inhibition, and inhibitory capacity of three different anti-M preparations, with use of isolated human BB, MM, and MB isoenzymes. The Scandinavian-recommended reaction system was used. We suggest a set of tentative quality requirements for anti-M for use in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction. The need to measure and subtract sample residual adenylate kinase activity was demosntrated. We describe a routine photometric method for determining B-subunit activity in serum. With the Scandinavian CK method the upper reference value for total creatine kinase in serum was found to be 150 U/L for women, 270 U/L for men. By bioluminescence, we found the upper reference value for B-subunit activity to be 6 U/L for both sexes. We discuss three different modes for applying B-subunit determinations to the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction.", "contents": "Creatine kinase B-subunit activity in serum after immunoinhibition of M-subunit activity. Creatine kinase (EC 2.7.3.2) B-subunit activity in serum may be routinely measured as residual activity after specific immunoinhibition of the M-subunit. We assessed the inhibition kinetics, specificity, completeness of inhibition, and inhibitory capacity of three different anti-M preparations, with use of isolated human BB, MM, and MB isoenzymes. The Scandinavian-recommended reaction system was used. We suggest a set of tentative quality requirements for anti-M for use in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction. The need to measure and subtract sample residual adenylate kinase activity was demosntrated. We describe a routine photometric method for determining B-subunit activity in serum. With the Scandinavian CK method the upper reference value for total creatine kinase in serum was found to be 150 U/L for women, 270 U/L for men. By bioluminescence, we found the upper reference value for B-subunit activity to be 6 U/L for both sexes. We discuss three different modes for applying B-subunit determinations to the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 455648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11776", "title": "Urinary excretion of conjugated homovanillic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, and vanillic acid by persons on their usual diet and patients with neuroblastoma.", "content": "We report quantitative data on beta-glucuronidase- and sulfatase-hydrolyzable conjugates of homovanillic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, and vanillic acid in the urine of 20 apparently normal and healthy control persons and of three patients with neuroblastoma. We used organic solvent extraction and capillary gas chromatography. There was considerable person-to-person variation in the conjugation percentages calculated. Mean conjugated percentages of the four compounds for 16 normal healthy persons 2.5--40 years of age were, respectively, 12%, 33%, 14%, and 35%. For newborns and patients with neuroblastoma, these percentages were somewhat different. Increased amounts of vanillic acid were found in the urine of the patients with neuroblastoma, but results of a small metabolic study in rats suggest that this increase most probably is of dietary origin.", "contents": "Urinary excretion of conjugated homovanillic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, and vanillic acid by persons on their usual diet and patients with neuroblastoma. We report quantitative data on beta-glucuronidase- and sulfatase-hydrolyzable conjugates of homovanillic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, and vanillic acid in the urine of 20 apparently normal and healthy control persons and of three patients with neuroblastoma. We used organic solvent extraction and capillary gas chromatography. There was considerable person-to-person variation in the conjugation percentages calculated. Mean conjugated percentages of the four compounds for 16 normal healthy persons 2.5--40 years of age were, respectively, 12%, 33%, 14%, and 35%. For newborns and patients with neuroblastoma, these percentages were somewhat different. Increased amounts of vanillic acid were found in the urine of the patients with neuroblastoma, but results of a small metabolic study in rats suggest that this increase most probably is of dietary origin.", "PMID": 455649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11777", "title": "Comparison of acid phosphatase isoenzymes of human seminal fluid, prostate, and leukocytes.", "content": "We used ion-exchange column chromatography and electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel to compare the acid phosphatase isoenzymes of prostate and leukocytes. The major isoenzyme of the prostate is band 2A; only a trace of band 2B was observed. However, the major isoenzymes of leukocytes are band 4 and band 2B, and only a small amount of band 2A was observed. The three isoenzymes isolated from leukocytes or prostate gland react to the antiserum prepared against the aicd phosphatase isoenzyme of seminal fluid. Acid phosphatases of leukocytes other than the three isoenzymes mentioned above did not interact with the antiserum.", "contents": "Comparison of acid phosphatase isoenzymes of human seminal fluid, prostate, and leukocytes. We used ion-exchange column chromatography and electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel to compare the acid phosphatase isoenzymes of prostate and leukocytes. The major isoenzyme of the prostate is band 2A; only a trace of band 2B was observed. However, the major isoenzymes of leukocytes are band 4 and band 2B, and only a small amount of band 2A was observed. The three isoenzymes isolated from leukocytes or prostate gland react to the antiserum prepared against the aicd phosphatase isoenzyme of seminal fluid. Acid phosphatases of leukocytes other than the three isoenzymes mentioned above did not interact with the antiserum.", "PMID": 455650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11778", "title": "Improved liquid-chromatographic method for determination of serum cortisol.", "content": "We describe a specific and precise method for measuring concentrations of cortisol in serum or plasma by liquid chromatography. Cortisol, together with an internal standard, equilenin, is extracted from 1 mL of serum or plasma and analyzed isocratically on a reversed-phase column with a mobile phase of acetonitrile/phosphate buffer (30/70, by vol.), at a flow rate of 2.0 mL/min. The eluted cortisol is detected by its absorption at 254 nm and quantitated by peak height measurements. Each analysis requires no longer than 15 min at the optimum column temperature of 50 degrees C. The lower limit of detection for cortisol is about 2 ng/sample for a standard solution; sensitivity is routinely 5 micrograms/L of serum. Analytical recoveries exceeded 95%, with good day-to-day precision (coefficients of variation between 4 and 7%). Of more than 50 drugs and steroids tested for possible interference, only the steroids cortisone, prednisone, and prednisolone may interfere with the analysis of cortisol.", "contents": "Improved liquid-chromatographic method for determination of serum cortisol. We describe a specific and precise method for measuring concentrations of cortisol in serum or plasma by liquid chromatography. Cortisol, together with an internal standard, equilenin, is extracted from 1 mL of serum or plasma and analyzed isocratically on a reversed-phase column with a mobile phase of acetonitrile/phosphate buffer (30/70, by vol.), at a flow rate of 2.0 mL/min. The eluted cortisol is detected by its absorption at 254 nm and quantitated by peak height measurements. Each analysis requires no longer than 15 min at the optimum column temperature of 50 degrees C. The lower limit of detection for cortisol is about 2 ng/sample for a standard solution; sensitivity is routinely 5 micrograms/L of serum. Analytical recoveries exceeded 95%, with good day-to-day precision (coefficients of variation between 4 and 7%). Of more than 50 drugs and steroids tested for possible interference, only the steroids cortisone, prednisone, and prednisolone may interfere with the analysis of cortisol.", "PMID": 455651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11779", "title": "Micro-scale method for liquid-chromatographic determination of chloramphenicol in serum.", "content": "We describe the use of \"high-performance\" liquid chromatography to measure chloramphenicol in as little as 25 microL of serum. Serum is treated to precipitate proteins with acetonitrile containing p-nitroacetanilide as an internal standard. Chloramphenicol is eluted with a mobile phase of methanol in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer (35/65 by vol). The drug is measured at 278 nm and simultaneously monitored at 254 nm; interfering substances are detected by examining the 278 nm/254 absorbance ratios. This method is sensitive to less than 0.5 mg/L and the standard curve is linear to at least 50 mg/L. Inter-day precision ranged between 3--6%. We encountered no interference from endogenous compounds or from other drugs we tested.", "contents": "Micro-scale method for liquid-chromatographic determination of chloramphenicol in serum. We describe the use of \"high-performance\" liquid chromatography to measure chloramphenicol in as little as 25 microL of serum. Serum is treated to precipitate proteins with acetonitrile containing p-nitroacetanilide as an internal standard. Chloramphenicol is eluted with a mobile phase of methanol in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer (35/65 by vol). The drug is measured at 278 nm and simultaneously monitored at 254 nm; interfering substances are detected by examining the 278 nm/254 absorbance ratios. This method is sensitive to less than 0.5 mg/L and the standard curve is linear to at least 50 mg/L. Inter-day precision ranged between 3--6%. We encountered no interference from endogenous compounds or from other drugs we tested.", "PMID": 455652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11780", "title": "Measurement of Erythrocyte 2,3-diphosphoglycerate with a centrifugal analyzer.", "content": "Intra-erythrocytic concentration of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate is a major determinant of the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin. We report here the adaptation of its assay to a centrifugal analyzer, with use of a commercially available reagent. Results are calculated by using the reagent-blank-corrected absorbance change at 340 nm between 120 and 300 s for the samples and a 2.5 mmol/L standard. Under these conditions the standard curve is linear to 5 mmol/L. The compound in a 101-fold aqueous hemolysate is stable for several weeks at either -4 or -70 degrees C. Assay sensitivity and precision are excellent and results agree well with those by the corresponding manual method.", "contents": "Measurement of Erythrocyte 2,3-diphosphoglycerate with a centrifugal analyzer. Intra-erythrocytic concentration of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate is a major determinant of the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin. We report here the adaptation of its assay to a centrifugal analyzer, with use of a commercially available reagent. Results are calculated by using the reagent-blank-corrected absorbance change at 340 nm between 120 and 300 s for the samples and a 2.5 mmol/L standard. Under these conditions the standard curve is linear to 5 mmol/L. The compound in a 101-fold aqueous hemolysate is stable for several weeks at either -4 or -70 degrees C. Assay sensitivity and precision are excellent and results agree well with those by the corresponding manual method.", "PMID": 455653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11781", "title": "Diabetic ketoalkalosis.", "content": "The usual metabolic derangement in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is metabolic acidosis, with an increase in the anion gap because of increased ketoacids and lactate. However, diabetic ketoalkalosis may occasionally be encountered, the prominent clinical feature of which is vomiting, with depletion of potassium, chloride, and hydrogen ions. Self-medication with absorbabe alkali may also contribute to the alkalosis. It would be dangerous to treat hyperlgycemic patients with alkali if their condition is ketoalkalosis instead of ketoacidosis.", "contents": "Diabetic ketoalkalosis. The usual metabolic derangement in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is metabolic acidosis, with an increase in the anion gap because of increased ketoacids and lactate. However, diabetic ketoalkalosis may occasionally be encountered, the prominent clinical feature of which is vomiting, with depletion of potassium, chloride, and hydrogen ions. Self-medication with absorbabe alkali may also contribute to the alkalosis. It would be dangerous to treat hyperlgycemic patients with alkali if their condition is ketoalkalosis instead of ketoacidosis.", "PMID": 455654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11782", "title": "Liquid-chromatographic measurement of taurine in cerebrospinal fluid of normal individuals and patients with meningitis.", "content": "Taurine was measured in cerebrospinal fluid by reacting it with fluorescamine to form a fluorescent derivative, followed by separation on a reversed-phase column and fluorometric detection and evaluation. The assay is rapid (17 min) and sensitive to as little as 1 mumol/L. The mean value for 27 cerebrospinal fluid samples collected from patients free from meningitis and aneurysm was 5.7 +/- 1.8 mumol/L. Twenty-two patients with bacterial meningitis showed a 0- to 20-fold increase in cerebrospinal fluid taurine, with a return to normal values after antibiotic treatment.", "contents": "Liquid-chromatographic measurement of taurine in cerebrospinal fluid of normal individuals and patients with meningitis. Taurine was measured in cerebrospinal fluid by reacting it with fluorescamine to form a fluorescent derivative, followed by separation on a reversed-phase column and fluorometric detection and evaluation. The assay is rapid (17 min) and sensitive to as little as 1 mumol/L. The mean value for 27 cerebrospinal fluid samples collected from patients free from meningitis and aneurysm was 5.7 +/- 1.8 mumol/L. Twenty-two patients with bacterial meningitis showed a 0- to 20-fold increase in cerebrospinal fluid taurine, with a return to normal values after antibiotic treatment.", "PMID": 455670} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11783", "title": "Improved determination of phenobarbital, primidone, and phenytoin by use of a preparative instrument for extraction, followed by gas chromatography.", "content": "A microprocessor-controlled automatic extractor, (PREMTM I) is described with which lipophilic components may be extracted from physiological fluids by means of a selective, solid-phase extraction cartridge, and the extracts presented in dry form for subsequent analysis. This instrument has been successfully evaluated for the extraction of phenobarbital, primidone, and phenytoin from human serum before chromatographic analysis. We describe a specific method for determination of these anticonvulsants, involving the PREP I and analysis, after flash-heater methylation, in a gas chromatograph equipped with a nitrogen-sensitive detector. Absolute recoveries ranged from 90 to 102%. Within-day and day-to-day precision (CV) ranged from 4 to 7% for all three drugs in therapeutic concentrations. Comparison of this method with results obtained with a liquid--liquid micro-scale extraction and a similar gas-chromatographic method resulted in correlation coefficients of 0.988 (phenobarbital), 0.978 (primidone), and 0.982 (phenytoin). These drugs in therapeutic concentrations can be simultaneously extracted and measured with confidence.", "contents": "Improved determination of phenobarbital, primidone, and phenytoin by use of a preparative instrument for extraction, followed by gas chromatography. A microprocessor-controlled automatic extractor, (PREMTM I) is described with which lipophilic components may be extracted from physiological fluids by means of a selective, solid-phase extraction cartridge, and the extracts presented in dry form for subsequent analysis. This instrument has been successfully evaluated for the extraction of phenobarbital, primidone, and phenytoin from human serum before chromatographic analysis. We describe a specific method for determination of these anticonvulsants, involving the PREP I and analysis, after flash-heater methylation, in a gas chromatograph equipped with a nitrogen-sensitive detector. Absolute recoveries ranged from 90 to 102%. Within-day and day-to-day precision (CV) ranged from 4 to 7% for all three drugs in therapeutic concentrations. Comparison of this method with results obtained with a liquid--liquid micro-scale extraction and a similar gas-chromatographic method resulted in correlation coefficients of 0.988 (phenobarbital), 0.978 (primidone), and 0.982 (phenytoin). These drugs in therapeutic concentrations can be simultaneously extracted and measured with confidence.", "PMID": 455671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11784", "title": "Development of a stable lipoprotein diluent for use in reconstituting lyophilized human serum for the preparation of clear, hyperlipidemic quality-control materials.", "content": "We describe a simple system for the preparation of a hyperlipidemic control serum. Beta- and pre-beta-lipoproteins are removed from the serum and prepared as a stable diluent; the extracted serum is then lyophilized. Upon addition of the lipoprotein diluent, which was observed to contain only liproprotein and sodium bicarbonate, the serum reconstitutes rapidly, usually within 5 min. By a suitable adjustment of the lipoprotein concentration in the diluent, a hyperlipidemic control serum may be produced with desired concentrations of lipids. Because the lipoproteins are not included in the destructive lyophilization step, the resulting product has remarkable clarity, precision, and stability.", "contents": "Development of a stable lipoprotein diluent for use in reconstituting lyophilized human serum for the preparation of clear, hyperlipidemic quality-control materials. We describe a simple system for the preparation of a hyperlipidemic control serum. Beta- and pre-beta-lipoproteins are removed from the serum and prepared as a stable diluent; the extracted serum is then lyophilized. Upon addition of the lipoprotein diluent, which was observed to contain only liproprotein and sodium bicarbonate, the serum reconstitutes rapidly, usually within 5 min. By a suitable adjustment of the lipoprotein concentration in the diluent, a hyperlipidemic control serum may be produced with desired concentrations of lipids. Because the lipoproteins are not included in the destructive lyophilization step, the resulting product has remarkable clarity, precision, and stability.", "PMID": 455672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11785", "title": "D-Mannose in human serum, measured as its aldononitrile acetate derivative.", "content": "We report a procedure for determining D-mannose in serum. After removal of proteins and lipids, the carbohydrate-containing fraction is treated to form the aldononitrile acetate derivative and analyzed by gas--liquid chromatography with a flame-ionization detector. D-Mannose and D-glucose had retention times of 31 and 34 min, respectively. Day-to-day reproducibilities (CV) of between 2 and 12% for mannose were attainable for quantities of 100--900 ng. Related hexoses and derivatives do not interfere. The sensitivity was such that 10 mg/L could be detected in a 0.1-mL sample of serum. This method may be of use in diagnosing invasive Candida infection.", "contents": "D-Mannose in human serum, measured as its aldononitrile acetate derivative. We report a procedure for determining D-mannose in serum. After removal of proteins and lipids, the carbohydrate-containing fraction is treated to form the aldononitrile acetate derivative and analyzed by gas--liquid chromatography with a flame-ionization detector. D-Mannose and D-glucose had retention times of 31 and 34 min, respectively. Day-to-day reproducibilities (CV) of between 2 and 12% for mannose were attainable for quantities of 100--900 ng. Related hexoses and derivatives do not interfere. The sensitivity was such that 10 mg/L could be detected in a 0.1-mL sample of serum. This method may be of use in diagnosing invasive Candida infection.", "PMID": 455673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11786", "title": "Spectrophotometric measurement of carboxyhemoglobin and methemoglobin in blood.", "content": "This paper describes separate spectrophotometric procedures for rapidly measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and methemoglobin (MetHb) in blood. Absorbance measurements are made in the Soret region at a blood dilution near 1000-fold. For COHb estimation, the diluent contains sodium hydrosulfite, providing the two-component system COHb--Hb for absorbance measurements at 420 and 432 nm. The NA2S2O4 effectively prevents dissociation of COHb by oxygen. For MetHb estimation, the diluent contains KCN and carbon monoxide, providing the two-component system COHb--CNMetHb. Absorbance measurements are made at 420 nm, before and after addiely analyzed for the total of all MetHb forms present. Each procedure requires about 3 muL of blood and can be applied to human or animal blood. Results obtained by the present methods are in satisfactory agreement with currently accepted procedures, which require much larger samples or more elaborate equipment.", "contents": "Spectrophotometric measurement of carboxyhemoglobin and methemoglobin in blood. This paper describes separate spectrophotometric procedures for rapidly measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and methemoglobin (MetHb) in blood. Absorbance measurements are made in the Soret region at a blood dilution near 1000-fold. For COHb estimation, the diluent contains sodium hydrosulfite, providing the two-component system COHb--Hb for absorbance measurements at 420 and 432 nm. The NA2S2O4 effectively prevents dissociation of COHb by oxygen. For MetHb estimation, the diluent contains KCN and carbon monoxide, providing the two-component system COHb--CNMetHb. Absorbance measurements are made at 420 nm, before and after addiely analyzed for the total of all MetHb forms present. Each procedure requires about 3 muL of blood and can be applied to human or animal blood. Results obtained by the present methods are in satisfactory agreement with currently accepted procedures, which require much larger samples or more elaborate equipment.", "PMID": 455674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11787", "title": "Inter- and intra-individual variations in the saliva/blood alcohol ratio during ethanol metabolism in man.", "content": "The inter- and intra-individual components of variation in the saliva/blood alcohol ratio have been calculated from experiments with 48 male subjects after they drank 0.72 g of ethanol per kilogram of body weight as neat whisky after a short fast. Saliva and blood ethanol profiles were monitored at 30--60 min intervals for up to 7 h after intake. The analytical component of variation inherent in an estimate of the saliva/blood alcohol ratio, expressed as coefficient of variation, was 1.75%. I calculated saliva/blood ethanol ratios for each subject at each sampling time by taking the antilogarithm of the difference (log saliva alcohol--log blood alcohol). The mean ratio between 60 and 360 min after drinking was 1.077 (n = 336) with 95% confidence limits of 1.065 and 1.088. Moreover, the individual ratios showed no systematic variation throughout the absorption, distribution, and elimination phases of ethanol metabolism. Using a two-way analysis of variance and allowing for analytical sources of variation, I determined that the inter- and intra-subject variance components were 53 and 47% of the total biological variation. The saliva/blood alcohol ratio during ethanol metabolism, determined once in a single individual, had a biologically derived coefficient of variation of 10%.", "contents": "Inter- and intra-individual variations in the saliva/blood alcohol ratio during ethanol metabolism in man. The inter- and intra-individual components of variation in the saliva/blood alcohol ratio have been calculated from experiments with 48 male subjects after they drank 0.72 g of ethanol per kilogram of body weight as neat whisky after a short fast. Saliva and blood ethanol profiles were monitored at 30--60 min intervals for up to 7 h after intake. The analytical component of variation inherent in an estimate of the saliva/blood alcohol ratio, expressed as coefficient of variation, was 1.75%. I calculated saliva/blood ethanol ratios for each subject at each sampling time by taking the antilogarithm of the difference (log saliva alcohol--log blood alcohol). The mean ratio between 60 and 360 min after drinking was 1.077 (n = 336) with 95% confidence limits of 1.065 and 1.088. Moreover, the individual ratios showed no systematic variation throughout the absorption, distribution, and elimination phases of ethanol metabolism. Using a two-way analysis of variance and allowing for analytical sources of variation, I determined that the inter- and intra-subject variance components were 53 and 47% of the total biological variation. The saliva/blood alcohol ratio during ethanol metabolism, determined once in a single individual, had a biologically derived coefficient of variation of 10%.", "PMID": 455675} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11788", "title": "Micro-scale enzymic determination of ethanol in plasma with a discrete analyzer, the ABA-100.", "content": "An enzymic method for estimating ethanol has been adapted to the Abbott Bichromatic Analyzer-100. Fully automated, the method can accommodate up to 192 assays per hour. It requires only 2.5 muL of plasma and therefore is applicable to analysis for ethanol in blood sampled by finger-prick.", "contents": "Micro-scale enzymic determination of ethanol in plasma with a discrete analyzer, the ABA-100. An enzymic method for estimating ethanol has been adapted to the Abbott Bichromatic Analyzer-100. Fully automated, the method can accommodate up to 192 assays per hour. It requires only 2.5 muL of plasma and therefore is applicable to analysis for ethanol in blood sampled by finger-prick.", "PMID": 455676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11789", "title": "Evaluation and application of magnetizable charcoal for separation in radioimmunoassays.", "content": "We compared conventional charcoal separation of antibody-bound and free antigen with a novel method involving magnetizable particles containing charcoal. The magnetizable charcoal separation method was as effective as the conventional method for a wide range of radioimmunoassays, including those for several steroids and small polypeptide hormones. In a detailed comparison of conventional vs. magnetizable charcoal for radioimmunoassay of aldosterone, the magnetizable charcoal had several advantages: it did not require prior coating with dextran or protein, varied less with time and temperature, required no centrifugation, and took less time for separation. The correlation of results obtained with magnetizable and conventional charcoal separation was excellent (n = 89, r = 0.98, p less than 0.001), and the coefficient of variation for the separation with magnetizable charcoal was 0.5%.", "contents": "Evaluation and application of magnetizable charcoal for separation in radioimmunoassays. We compared conventional charcoal separation of antibody-bound and free antigen with a novel method involving magnetizable particles containing charcoal. The magnetizable charcoal separation method was as effective as the conventional method for a wide range of radioimmunoassays, including those for several steroids and small polypeptide hormones. In a detailed comparison of conventional vs. magnetizable charcoal for radioimmunoassay of aldosterone, the magnetizable charcoal had several advantages: it did not require prior coating with dextran or protein, varied less with time and temperature, required no centrifugation, and took less time for separation. The correlation of results obtained with magnetizable and conventional charcoal separation was excellent (n = 89, r = 0.98, p less than 0.001), and the coefficient of variation for the separation with magnetizable charcoal was 0.5%.", "PMID": 455677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11790", "title": "Gas-chromatographic analysis of patterns of fatty acids of cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine.", "content": "We have developed a quick, reliable method for compositional analysis of the C14 to C20 fatty acids of cholesteryl esters, based on the use of a double extraction-solvent system and whisker-walled capillary columns with a new polar phase. Fatty acids of phosphatidylcholine, after separation by thin-layer chromatography, were determined on the same column. Our normal values are in good agreement with those published previously. We found marked changes in the fatty acid composition of both cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine in cord blood serum, in various disease states, and in post-mortem specimens. The previously reported correlation between oleic (18:1) and linoleic (18:2) acids in serum cholesteryl esters was confirmed for normal adults, but no such correlation exists in cord blood specimens. We also found a significant correlation between the relative amounts of fatty acids in cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine for all unsaturated fatty acids and for palmitate in all groups of subjects.", "contents": "Gas-chromatographic analysis of patterns of fatty acids of cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine. We have developed a quick, reliable method for compositional analysis of the C14 to C20 fatty acids of cholesteryl esters, based on the use of a double extraction-solvent system and whisker-walled capillary columns with a new polar phase. Fatty acids of phosphatidylcholine, after separation by thin-layer chromatography, were determined on the same column. Our normal values are in good agreement with those published previously. We found marked changes in the fatty acid composition of both cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine in cord blood serum, in various disease states, and in post-mortem specimens. The previously reported correlation between oleic (18:1) and linoleic (18:2) acids in serum cholesteryl esters was confirmed for normal adults, but no such correlation exists in cord blood specimens. We also found a significant correlation between the relative amounts of fatty acids in cholesteryl esters and phosphatidylcholine for all unsaturated fatty acids and for palmitate in all groups of subjects.", "PMID": 455678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11791", "title": "Creatine kinase BB: a new tumor-associated marker.", "content": "Creatine kinase isoenzyme BB (CK-BB) is found in the serum of patients with various types of cancer. Using both radioimmunoassay and agarose electrophoresis, we found abnormal amounts of this isoenzyme in the serum of 15 of 17 patients with untreated prostatic carcinoma. Among patients with other types of adenocarcinomas and metastatic disease, serum CK-BB was increased in most of those who were unresponsive to therapy. In benign or malignant prostate tissue and in malignant pleural effusions, cytoplasmic CK-BB as determined by immunoperoxidase staining was found in epithelial cells. Prostatic fluid had high concentrations of CK-BB, as did malignant, but not benign, pleural fluid supernates. We conclude that glandular epithelial cells contain CK-BB, which is released in benign and malignant states and may appear in higher concentrations in the circulation in malignant states. These conclusions are consistent with predictions we have made from a model experimental system concerning characteristics of possible tumor markers. The observations indicate a role for CK-BB as a tumor marker, particularly for adenocarcinoma of the prostate.", "contents": "Creatine kinase BB: a new tumor-associated marker. Creatine kinase isoenzyme BB (CK-BB) is found in the serum of patients with various types of cancer. Using both radioimmunoassay and agarose electrophoresis, we found abnormal amounts of this isoenzyme in the serum of 15 of 17 patients with untreated prostatic carcinoma. Among patients with other types of adenocarcinomas and metastatic disease, serum CK-BB was increased in most of those who were unresponsive to therapy. In benign or malignant prostate tissue and in malignant pleural effusions, cytoplasmic CK-BB as determined by immunoperoxidase staining was found in epithelial cells. Prostatic fluid had high concentrations of CK-BB, as did malignant, but not benign, pleural fluid supernates. We conclude that glandular epithelial cells contain CK-BB, which is released in benign and malignant states and may appear in higher concentrations in the circulation in malignant states. These conclusions are consistent with predictions we have made from a model experimental system concerning characteristics of possible tumor markers. The observations indicate a role for CK-BB as a tumor marker, particularly for adenocarcinoma of the prostate.", "PMID": 455680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11792", "title": "Routine glucose determination in serum by use of an immobilized glucose dehydrogenase nylon-tube reactor.", "content": "We report a method for immobilizing glucose dehydrogenase on the inside surface of nylon tubes to produce an immobilized-enzyme nylon-tube reactor. The glucose dehydrogenase reactor is integrated into the flow system of a continuous-flow analyzer to facilitate routine analysis of serum glucose at 50 samples/h. We compared results with those by the reference hexokinase/glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase solution method. The coefficient of correlation was r = 0.996. A glucose dehydrogenase reactor made starting with 1 mg (250 U) of enzyme was stable during eight weeks of continuous use, that is, for nearly 3500 tests. This reduced the cost of the assay by at least 50-fold, compared with that for a commercial glucose dehydrogenase test pack method.", "contents": "Routine glucose determination in serum by use of an immobilized glucose dehydrogenase nylon-tube reactor. We report a method for immobilizing glucose dehydrogenase on the inside surface of nylon tubes to produce an immobilized-enzyme nylon-tube reactor. The glucose dehydrogenase reactor is integrated into the flow system of a continuous-flow analyzer to facilitate routine analysis of serum glucose at 50 samples/h. We compared results with those by the reference hexokinase/glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase solution method. The coefficient of correlation was r = 0.996. A glucose dehydrogenase reactor made starting with 1 mg (250 U) of enzyme was stable during eight weeks of continuous use, that is, for nearly 3500 tests. This reduced the cost of the assay by at least 50-fold, compared with that for a commercial glucose dehydrogenase test pack method.", "PMID": 455681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11793", "title": "A simplified, colorimetric micromethod for xylose in serum or urine, with phloroglucinol.", "content": "We have developed a simplified xylose assay procedure that requires only 10 min and requires 50 microL of serum or 5 microL of urine. The reaction with phloroglucinol is more sensitive than the classic p-bromaniline color reaction, and requires only 4 min of heating for color development. A single reagent is mixed with the specimen directly, without prior protein precipitation. Analytical recovery of xylose added to serum was quantitative; precision studies resulted in a between-day coefficient of variation of 5.2%. Glucose, which has significant potential for interference in most other xylose procedures, reacts under the test conditions only to the extent of 70 mumol of apparent xylose per liter for a 5.5 mmol/L solution of glucose. The new procedure has been valuable in the assessment of malabsorption, especially in children and infants, where serum xylose is the preferred measurement.", "contents": "A simplified, colorimetric micromethod for xylose in serum or urine, with phloroglucinol. We have developed a simplified xylose assay procedure that requires only 10 min and requires 50 microL of serum or 5 microL of urine. The reaction with phloroglucinol is more sensitive than the classic p-bromaniline color reaction, and requires only 4 min of heating for color development. A single reagent is mixed with the specimen directly, without prior protein precipitation. Analytical recovery of xylose added to serum was quantitative; precision studies resulted in a between-day coefficient of variation of 5.2%. Glucose, which has significant potential for interference in most other xylose procedures, reacts under the test conditions only to the extent of 70 mumol of apparent xylose per liter for a 5.5 mmol/L solution of glucose. The new procedure has been valuable in the assessment of malabsorption, especially in children and infants, where serum xylose is the preferred measurement.", "PMID": 455682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11794", "title": "Mechanized determination of the apparent unbound unconjugated bilirubin concentration in serum.", "content": "The peroxidase method for determining the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in serum has been automated by use of a programmable, computer-directed spectrophotometer. This mechanized assay determines the total bilirubin concentration and apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in serum samples and titrates the serum with bilirubin to estimate the effect of increasing total bilirubin concentrations on the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration. The entire analysis requires 0.1 mL of serum and 4 min operation time, as compared with about 30 min for the manual method. The coefficients of variation for determination of the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in bilirubin-enriched commercial control serum were 2.8% within-day and 5.6% between-day. Bilirubin--albumin binding in serum samples from infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia was analyzed by the manual peroxidase method, the automated peroxidase method, and Sephadex gel filtration. Good correlation was found among all three methods.", "contents": "Mechanized determination of the apparent unbound unconjugated bilirubin concentration in serum. The peroxidase method for determining the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in serum has been automated by use of a programmable, computer-directed spectrophotometer. This mechanized assay determines the total bilirubin concentration and apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in serum samples and titrates the serum with bilirubin to estimate the effect of increasing total bilirubin concentrations on the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration. The entire analysis requires 0.1 mL of serum and 4 min operation time, as compared with about 30 min for the manual method. The coefficients of variation for determination of the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration in bilirubin-enriched commercial control serum were 2.8% within-day and 5.6% between-day. Bilirubin--albumin binding in serum samples from infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia was analyzed by the manual peroxidase method, the automated peroxidase method, and Sephadex gel filtration. Good correlation was found among all three methods.", "PMID": 455683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11795", "title": "Separation of five isoenzymes of serum lactate dehydrogenase by discontinuous gradient elution from a miniature ion-exchange column.", "content": "We describe a simple, fast chromatographic technique for quantitatively separating the five isoenzymes of lactate dehydrogenase (LD; EC 1.1.1.27) in serum. A 250-microL serum sample is applied to a 6.0 x 0.7 cm column of QAE-Sephadex A-50 and eluted stepwise with five different buffers. The isoenzyme fractions, assayed by the method of Wroblewski and LaDue [Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol, Med. 90, 210 (1955)], are stable at room temperature for 24 h. For all five isoenzymes the average within-day coefficient of variation is 4.3%; the day-to-day CV for 20 days is 6.3%. Of some common potentially interfering substances tested, only sodium fluoride (238 mmol/L) was found to do so, by slowing the elution from the column and making the fractions turbid. The expected range in international (IUB) united and percent for each isoenzyme was determined from data on 73 men and 70 women. From these data we calculate, by a percentile estimate of a nongaussian distribution, a normal range of LD-1/LD-2 ratio of 0.55--0.87 for men and 0.52--0.91 for women. The LD isoenzyme patterns in both normal and above-normal samples of 147 sera, as evaluated by the present column method and by electrophoresis, correlated well.", "contents": "Separation of five isoenzymes of serum lactate dehydrogenase by discontinuous gradient elution from a miniature ion-exchange column. We describe a simple, fast chromatographic technique for quantitatively separating the five isoenzymes of lactate dehydrogenase (LD; EC 1.1.1.27) in serum. A 250-microL serum sample is applied to a 6.0 x 0.7 cm column of QAE-Sephadex A-50 and eluted stepwise with five different buffers. The isoenzyme fractions, assayed by the method of Wroblewski and LaDue [Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol, Med. 90, 210 (1955)], are stable at room temperature for 24 h. For all five isoenzymes the average within-day coefficient of variation is 4.3%; the day-to-day CV for 20 days is 6.3%. Of some common potentially interfering substances tested, only sodium fluoride (238 mmol/L) was found to do so, by slowing the elution from the column and making the fractions turbid. The expected range in international (IUB) united and percent for each isoenzyme was determined from data on 73 men and 70 women. From these data we calculate, by a percentile estimate of a nongaussian distribution, a normal range of LD-1/LD-2 ratio of 0.55--0.87 for men and 0.52--0.91 for women. The LD isoenzyme patterns in both normal and above-normal samples of 147 sera, as evaluated by the present column method and by electrophoresis, correlated well.", "PMID": 455684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11796", "title": "Heparin interferes with albumin determination by dye-binding methods.", "content": "Heparin, when added in vitro at rather high concentrations (400--1000 kilounits/L) as an anticoagulant, interferes with albumin determination by bromcresol green by forming an insoluble precipitate with this dye. The interference is much less with bromcresol purple. It can be abolished by addition of hexadimethrine bromide.", "contents": "Heparin interferes with albumin determination by dye-binding methods. Heparin, when added in vitro at rather high concentrations (400--1000 kilounits/L) as an anticoagulant, interferes with albumin determination by bromcresol green by forming an insoluble precipitate with this dye. The interference is much less with bromcresol purple. It can be abolished by addition of hexadimethrine bromide.", "PMID": 455685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11797", "title": "An improved micromethod for theophylline determination by reversed-phase liquid chromatography.", "content": "We describe an improved micro-scale method for determining serum theophylline by reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Samples are deproteinized with two volumes of methanol containing beta-hydroxyethyltheophylline as an internal standard. The supernate is chromatographed with a methanol/sodium acetate buffer (15/85 by vol) mobile phase, and the amount of theophylline is calculated from the ratio between peak heights for theophylline and the internal standard at 273 nm. We also monitor for chemical interferences at 254 nm. We found no interferences from ampicillin, methicillin, cephalosporin, and cephalothin. None of the drugs tested or metabolites and compounds related to theophylline have been found to interfere. The method is rapid, accurate, sensitive, and specific for theophylline.", "contents": "An improved micromethod for theophylline determination by reversed-phase liquid chromatography. We describe an improved micro-scale method for determining serum theophylline by reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Samples are deproteinized with two volumes of methanol containing beta-hydroxyethyltheophylline as an internal standard. The supernate is chromatographed with a methanol/sodium acetate buffer (15/85 by vol) mobile phase, and the amount of theophylline is calculated from the ratio between peak heights for theophylline and the internal standard at 273 nm. We also monitor for chemical interferences at 254 nm. We found no interferences from ampicillin, methicillin, cephalosporin, and cephalothin. None of the drugs tested or metabolites and compounds related to theophylline have been found to interfere. The method is rapid, accurate, sensitive, and specific for theophylline.", "PMID": 455686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11798", "title": "Assay of plant sterols by use of cholesterol oxidase.", "content": "The cholesterol esterase/cholesterol oxidase enzyme kit can be used for analysis of plant sterols. The results are comparable to those obtained by conventional colorimetric analysis.", "contents": "Assay of plant sterols by use of cholesterol oxidase. The cholesterol esterase/cholesterol oxidase enzyme kit can be used for analysis of plant sterols. The results are comparable to those obtained by conventional colorimetric analysis.", "PMID": 455687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11799", "title": "Enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay for serum ferritin: method evaluation and comparison with two radioassays.", "content": "We report our evaluation of a commercially available procedure and reagents for determination of ferritin in serum by enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results by our procedure and the \"Fer Iron\" (Ramco Labs) procedure shows a degree of association (r) of 0.95 and a regression equation of y = 1.03x - 33. Similarly, our procedure compared to the \"Gamma Dab\" (Clinical Assays) ferritin procedure shows a degree of association of 0.98 and a regression equation of y = 0.93x - 11. Between-day standard deviations were 6 and 22 micrograms/L (n = 24 and 20) for ferritin concentrations of 20 and 300 micrograms/L, respectively. Ferritin values showed no correlation with total iron concentration, but show a broad inverse relationship with iron-binding capacities. The favorable correlation with existing procedures and the speed of the analysis commend the use of ELISA for measurement of ferritin in serum.", "contents": "Enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay for serum ferritin: method evaluation and comparison with two radioassays. We report our evaluation of a commercially available procedure and reagents for determination of ferritin in serum by enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results by our procedure and the \"Fer Iron\" (Ramco Labs) procedure shows a degree of association (r) of 0.95 and a regression equation of y = 1.03x - 33. Similarly, our procedure compared to the \"Gamma Dab\" (Clinical Assays) ferritin procedure shows a degree of association of 0.98 and a regression equation of y = 0.93x - 11. Between-day standard deviations were 6 and 22 micrograms/L (n = 24 and 20) for ferritin concentrations of 20 and 300 micrograms/L, respectively. Ferritin values showed no correlation with total iron concentration, but show a broad inverse relationship with iron-binding capacities. The favorable correlation with existing procedures and the speed of the analysis commend the use of ELISA for measurement of ferritin in serum.", "PMID": 455688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11800", "title": "A bichromatic method for total bilirubin with a CentrifiChem 400.", "content": "We describe a method for the bichromatic determination of total bilirubin with a CentrifiChem 400 centrifugal analyzer with the Boehringer DPD kit. After reading the blank at 620 nm, we read the test at 550 nm. Because only one rotor is required, the analytical time for bilirubin estimations is halved. The proposed method is no more prone to interference by hemoglobin or turbidity than a conventional approach or a reference continuous-flow method and has performed well over several months of routine use.", "contents": "A bichromatic method for total bilirubin with a CentrifiChem 400. We describe a method for the bichromatic determination of total bilirubin with a CentrifiChem 400 centrifugal analyzer with the Boehringer DPD kit. After reading the blank at 620 nm, we read the test at 550 nm. Because only one rotor is required, the analytical time for bilirubin estimations is halved. The proposed method is no more prone to interference by hemoglobin or turbidity than a conventional approach or a reference continuous-flow method and has performed well over several months of routine use.", "PMID": 455689} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11801", "title": "Low proportions of glycosylated hemoglobin associated with hemoglobin S and hemoglobin C.", "content": "Using a cation-exchange chromatographic method, we found normal or subnormal values for glycosylated hemoglobin in a few diabetic patients with persistent hyperglycemia. Subsequent investigations revealed that these unexpected results had originated from black patients with diabetes. In view of common occurrence of abnormal hemoglobins in the Negro population, we subjected blood preparations to electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and acrylamide gel. The results have shown the presence of hemoglobin S or hemoglobin C in each patient. When allowance was made for the percentage of the abnormal hemoglobin, the \"corrected values\" of glycosylated hemoglobin increased to the diabetic range. Furthermore, the corrected values agreed well with the \"expected values\" calculated from a regression line correlating fasting blood glucose concentrations and proportions of glycosylated hemoglobin in more than 300 diabetics with no evidence of hemoglobinopathy. We conclude that in diabetic patients presenting with hemoglobin S or hemoglobin C, there is a considerable decrease in the values for glycosylated hemoglobin as measured by cation-exchange chromatographic methods, and that this decrease is proportional to the percentage of the abnormal hemoglobin.", "contents": "Low proportions of glycosylated hemoglobin associated with hemoglobin S and hemoglobin C. Using a cation-exchange chromatographic method, we found normal or subnormal values for glycosylated hemoglobin in a few diabetic patients with persistent hyperglycemia. Subsequent investigations revealed that these unexpected results had originated from black patients with diabetes. In view of common occurrence of abnormal hemoglobins in the Negro population, we subjected blood preparations to electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and acrylamide gel. The results have shown the presence of hemoglobin S or hemoglobin C in each patient. When allowance was made for the percentage of the abnormal hemoglobin, the \"corrected values\" of glycosylated hemoglobin increased to the diabetic range. Furthermore, the corrected values agreed well with the \"expected values\" calculated from a regression line correlating fasting blood glucose concentrations and proportions of glycosylated hemoglobin in more than 300 diabetics with no evidence of hemoglobinopathy. We conclude that in diabetic patients presenting with hemoglobin S or hemoglobin C, there is a considerable decrease in the values for glycosylated hemoglobin as measured by cation-exchange chromatographic methods, and that this decrease is proportional to the percentage of the abnormal hemoglobin.", "PMID": 455690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11802", "title": "Hyperxanthinemia interferes with serum uric acid determinations by the uricase method.", "content": "Serum xanthine concentrations as high as 148 mg/L were noted after treatment of a patient with Burkitt's lymphoma who was receiving allopurinol. These markedly above-normal values for xanthine led to spuriously low values for serum uric acid as measured by the uricase method. Rapid tumor lysis in patients who are receiving allopurinol may lead to marked hyperxanthinemia, which in turn may obscure hyperuricemia in such patients when the uricase method is used for uric acid analysis. In such situations, uric acid concentrations should be measured by the phosphotungstate colorimetric assay.", "contents": "Hyperxanthinemia interferes with serum uric acid determinations by the uricase method. Serum xanthine concentrations as high as 148 mg/L were noted after treatment of a patient with Burkitt's lymphoma who was receiving allopurinol. These markedly above-normal values for xanthine led to spuriously low values for serum uric acid as measured by the uricase method. Rapid tumor lysis in patients who are receiving allopurinol may lead to marked hyperxanthinemia, which in turn may obscure hyperuricemia in such patients when the uricase method is used for uric acid analysis. In such situations, uric acid concentrations should be measured by the phosphotungstate colorimetric assay.", "PMID": 455692} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11803", "title": "An evaluation of the use of electrophoresis and carbon furnace atomic absorption spectrometry to determine the copper level in separated serum protein fractions.", "content": "The results of an evaluation of the use of atomic absorption spectrometry with carbon furnace atomisation to analyse the copper content of individual protein fractions separated by electrophoresis is reported. Albumin copper levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were found to be about 1 to 2% of the total serum copper. Both albumin and alpha 2 levels are affected by contamination from residual copper present on the strip. An investigation of this contamination indicated very low blank copper levels in the areas of the strip containing alpha 1 and beta proteins. These results, and the results of analysis of copper in the ultrafiltrate from the same serum samples, are combined to define the copper distribution in a group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The determinations that can most readily be carried out by this technique are discussed.", "contents": "An evaluation of the use of electrophoresis and carbon furnace atomic absorption spectrometry to determine the copper level in separated serum protein fractions. The results of an evaluation of the use of atomic absorption spectrometry with carbon furnace atomisation to analyse the copper content of individual protein fractions separated by electrophoresis is reported. Albumin copper levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were found to be about 1 to 2% of the total serum copper. Both albumin and alpha 2 levels are affected by contamination from residual copper present on the strip. An investigation of this contamination indicated very low blank copper levels in the areas of the strip containing alpha 1 and beta proteins. These results, and the results of analysis of copper in the ultrafiltrate from the same serum samples, are combined to define the copper distribution in a group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The determinations that can most readily be carried out by this technique are discussed.", "PMID": 455717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11804", "title": "Dicarboxylic aciduria: the response to fasting.", "content": "The urine of a child who presented with an episode of a disease resembling Reye's syndrome was found to contain large quantities of the dicarboxylic acids adipic and suberic acids, as well as the glycine conjugate of suberic acid, suberyl glycine. A variety of other dicarboxylic acids, both saturated and unsaturated, were also found in the urine at the time of the attack. It was found that the excretion of these unusual metabolites could be markedly increased by fasting for periods of greater than 10 h. These results indicate that the patient may have a defect in fatty acid oxidation which becomes clinically significant during periods of prolonged fasting.", "contents": "Dicarboxylic aciduria: the response to fasting. The urine of a child who presented with an episode of a disease resembling Reye's syndrome was found to contain large quantities of the dicarboxylic acids adipic and suberic acids, as well as the glycine conjugate of suberic acid, suberyl glycine. A variety of other dicarboxylic acids, both saturated and unsaturated, were also found in the urine at the time of the attack. It was found that the excretion of these unusual metabolites could be markedly increased by fasting for periods of greater than 10 h. These results indicate that the patient may have a defect in fatty acid oxidation which becomes clinically significant during periods of prolonged fasting.", "PMID": 455718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11805", "title": "Immunochemical determination of two trypsins in human duodenal juice.", "content": "An application of electroimmunoassay to the separate determination of anionic and cationic trypsin in human duodenal juice is presented. The proportions of anionic to cationic immunoactive trypsin in duodenal juice from a group of children averaged 20 : 80. The ratio of immunoactive to esterolytically (BAPNA) active trypsin averaged 1.6 : 1, indicating the presence of inactive forms of trypsin in duodenal juice.", "contents": "Immunochemical determination of two trypsins in human duodenal juice. An application of electroimmunoassay to the separate determination of anionic and cationic trypsin in human duodenal juice is presented. The proportions of anionic to cationic immunoactive trypsin in duodenal juice from a group of children averaged 20 : 80. The ratio of immunoactive to esterolytically (BAPNA) active trypsin averaged 1.6 : 1, indicating the presence of inactive forms of trypsin in duodenal juice.", "PMID": 455719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11806", "title": "An assay for human erythrocyte catechol-O-methyltransferase activity using a catechol estrogen as the substrate.", "content": "A radiometric assay for catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) activity in human erythrocytes is described that employs 2-hydroxy[3H]estrone, and non-radiolabeled S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as the cosubstrates. The ease of separation of the product of the reaction, 2-methoxy[3H]estrone from 2-hydroxy[3H]estrone makes it possible to achieve low reaction blanks. The assay is very sensitive, and only 200 microliter of whole blood are used per determination. The assay is highly reproducible. The interassay variability (coefficient of variation) was 6.5% for 24 assays of COMT activity in red blood cells in blood obtained daily for 24 days from one person. In incubations conducted at 37 degrees C for 30 min, the catechol-O-methyltransferase activity was a linear function of enzyme concentration (equivalent to 11 to 180 microliter of packed red blood cells). Employing this assay, we evaluated the catalytic conversion of 2-hydroxyestrone to 2-methoxyestrone by catechol-O-methyltransferase from human red blood cells and found that the apparent Michaelis constant and the apparent maximal rate of reaction were 3 x 10(-7) M and 6.7 x 10(-9) mol . ml-1 erythrocytes . h-1, respectively. The catechol-O-methyltransferase activity measured in erythrocytes obtained from 100 healthy subjects (men and nonpregnant women) was 8.2 +/- 0.17 (mean +/- S.E.) nmol 2-methoxyestrone . ml-1 erythrocytes . h-1.", "contents": "An assay for human erythrocyte catechol-O-methyltransferase activity using a catechol estrogen as the substrate. A radiometric assay for catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) activity in human erythrocytes is described that employs 2-hydroxy[3H]estrone, and non-radiolabeled S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as the cosubstrates. The ease of separation of the product of the reaction, 2-methoxy[3H]estrone from 2-hydroxy[3H]estrone makes it possible to achieve low reaction blanks. The assay is very sensitive, and only 200 microliter of whole blood are used per determination. The assay is highly reproducible. The interassay variability (coefficient of variation) was 6.5% for 24 assays of COMT activity in red blood cells in blood obtained daily for 24 days from one person. In incubations conducted at 37 degrees C for 30 min, the catechol-O-methyltransferase activity was a linear function of enzyme concentration (equivalent to 11 to 180 microliter of packed red blood cells). Employing this assay, we evaluated the catalytic conversion of 2-hydroxyestrone to 2-methoxyestrone by catechol-O-methyltransferase from human red blood cells and found that the apparent Michaelis constant and the apparent maximal rate of reaction were 3 x 10(-7) M and 6.7 x 10(-9) mol . ml-1 erythrocytes . h-1, respectively. The catechol-O-methyltransferase activity measured in erythrocytes obtained from 100 healthy subjects (men and nonpregnant women) was 8.2 +/- 0.17 (mean +/- S.E.) nmol 2-methoxyestrone . ml-1 erythrocytes . h-1.", "PMID": 455720} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11807", "title": "Urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine and creatine in carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.", "content": "The mean molar ratio (0.0171) of 3-methylhistidine to creatinine in 24-h urine samples from carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy did not differ significantly from that of controls. The creatine/creatinine ratio was also normal.", "contents": "Urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine and creatine in carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The mean molar ratio (0.0171) of 3-methylhistidine to creatinine in 24-h urine samples from carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy did not differ significantly from that of controls. The creatine/creatinine ratio was also normal.", "PMID": 455721} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11808", "title": "Articular cartilage, blood serum glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins in osteoarthritis deformans.", "content": "Glycosaminoglycans in articular cartilage from human femoral heads have been isolated and fractionated by means of a cellulose microscale technique. The glucosaminoglycans have been identified by different procedures as keratan sulphate, hyaluronic acid, heparitin sulphate, chondroitin 4-sulphate, chondroitin 6-sulphate and dermatan sulphate. Osteoarthritic cartilage showed a significant reduction of dermatan sulphate, chondroitin 6-sulphate, keratan sulphate and heparitin sulphate. The content of glycoprotein carbohydrate components in the cartilage (neuraminic acid derivatives, hexoses, 6-deoxyhexoses) also appeared to be reduced. It has been shown that chondroitin 4-sulphate, keratan sulphate and dermatan sulphate content was considerably increased in osteoarthritic serum. Among serum glycoprotein carbohydrate constituents only the content of 6-deoxyhexoses was slightly increased.", "contents": "Articular cartilage, blood serum glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins in osteoarthritis deformans. Glycosaminoglycans in articular cartilage from human femoral heads have been isolated and fractionated by means of a cellulose microscale technique. The glucosaminoglycans have been identified by different procedures as keratan sulphate, hyaluronic acid, heparitin sulphate, chondroitin 4-sulphate, chondroitin 6-sulphate and dermatan sulphate. Osteoarthritic cartilage showed a significant reduction of dermatan sulphate, chondroitin 6-sulphate, keratan sulphate and heparitin sulphate. The content of glycoprotein carbohydrate components in the cartilage (neuraminic acid derivatives, hexoses, 6-deoxyhexoses) also appeared to be reduced. It has been shown that chondroitin 4-sulphate, keratan sulphate and dermatan sulphate content was considerably increased in osteoarthritic serum. Among serum glycoprotein carbohydrate constituents only the content of 6-deoxyhexoses was slightly increased.", "PMID": 455722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11809", "title": "Fetal tissue amino acid concentrations in argininosuccinic aciduria and in \"maternal homocystinuria\".", "content": "Free amino acid concentrations have been measured in the tissues of a fetus at risk for argininosuccinic aciduria and of an obligate heterozygous fetus in a mother homozygous for homocystinuria. Argininosuccinic acid was detected in all tissues studied of the homozygous affected fetus from the heterozygous mother. Abnormal concentrations of methionine and cystathionine were observed in the tissues of the fetus who was an obligate heterozygote for homocystinuria. These abnormal free amino acid concentrations occur early in fetal development and may be related to later brain dysfunction.", "contents": "Fetal tissue amino acid concentrations in argininosuccinic aciduria and in \"maternal homocystinuria\". Free amino acid concentrations have been measured in the tissues of a fetus at risk for argininosuccinic aciduria and of an obligate heterozygous fetus in a mother homozygous for homocystinuria. Argininosuccinic acid was detected in all tissues studied of the homozygous affected fetus from the heterozygous mother. Abnormal concentrations of methionine and cystathionine were observed in the tissues of the fetus who was an obligate heterozygote for homocystinuria. These abnormal free amino acid concentrations occur early in fetal development and may be related to later brain dysfunction.", "PMID": 455723} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11810", "title": "Identification of a non-specific carboxylesterase in human pancreas using vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate as a substrate.", "content": "Human pancreatic tissue, pancreatic juice and sera of patients suffering from acute pancreatitis contain a vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate hydrolysing activity which was separated from true pancreatic lipase (EC 3.1.1.3). The enzyme, preliminary called \"non-specific pancreatic carboxylesterase, was partially purified from human pancreatic tissue by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. Its molecular weight was found to be 54 000 by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. The isoelectric point was estimated as 4.65 by isoelectric focusing. The results explain the poor correlation obtained when determinations of \"serum lipase activity\" using triolein and vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate as substrates are compared. However, since non-specific pancreatic carboxylesterase is liberated into the serum, determination of this new enzyme provides additional information in the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases.", "contents": "Identification of a non-specific carboxylesterase in human pancreas using vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate as a substrate. Human pancreatic tissue, pancreatic juice and sera of patients suffering from acute pancreatitis contain a vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate hydrolysing activity which was separated from true pancreatic lipase (EC 3.1.1.3). The enzyme, preliminary called \"non-specific pancreatic carboxylesterase, was partially purified from human pancreatic tissue by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. Its molecular weight was found to be 54 000 by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. The isoelectric point was estimated as 4.65 by isoelectric focusing. The results explain the poor correlation obtained when determinations of \"serum lipase activity\" using triolein and vinyl 8-phenyloctanoate as substrates are compared. However, since non-specific pancreatic carboxylesterase is liberated into the serum, determination of this new enzyme provides additional information in the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases.", "PMID": 455724} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11811", "title": "Preservation of whole blood samples for creatine kinase isoenzyme MB estimations in the routine laboratory.", "content": "Activity of creatine kinase isoenzyme MB was maintained for 5 days at 4 degrees C in 5 ml whole blood collected in specimen bottles containing 9.5 mg EGTA and 2 microliters beta-mercaptoethanol for glutathione-activated CK-MB assays and 7.5 mg EDTA for N-acetyl-L-cysteine-activated CK-MB assays.", "contents": "Preservation of whole blood samples for creatine kinase isoenzyme MB estimations in the routine laboratory. Activity of creatine kinase isoenzyme MB was maintained for 5 days at 4 degrees C in 5 ml whole blood collected in specimen bottles containing 9.5 mg EGTA and 2 microliters beta-mercaptoethanol for glutathione-activated CK-MB assays and 7.5 mg EDTA for N-acetyl-L-cysteine-activated CK-MB assays.", "PMID": 455725} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11812", "title": "An ultra-micro method for the determination of total nitrogen in biological fluids based on Kjeldahl digestion and enzymatic estimation of ammonia.", "content": "An ultra-micro method for the determination of the total nitrogen-content of biological fluids and suspensions is described, based on a digestion in sulphuric acid and a enzymatic determination of the ammonia formed with glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3). The proposed method yields the same results as the classical Kjeldahl procedure, but is less time-consuming. The detection-limit of the nitrogen, without loss of precision and accuracy, is much lower than in the original Kjeldahl procedure, and is in the order of 35 ng N per sample.", "contents": "An ultra-micro method for the determination of total nitrogen in biological fluids based on Kjeldahl digestion and enzymatic estimation of ammonia. An ultra-micro method for the determination of the total nitrogen-content of biological fluids and suspensions is described, based on a digestion in sulphuric acid and a enzymatic determination of the ammonia formed with glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.3). The proposed method yields the same results as the classical Kjeldahl procedure, but is less time-consuming. The detection-limit of the nitrogen, without loss of precision and accuracy, is much lower than in the original Kjeldahl procedure, and is in the order of 35 ng N per sample.", "PMID": 455726} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11813", "title": "Dynamic deviation control in clinical chemistry laboratories based on the time variant behaviour of analytical processes.", "content": "Based on the time variant behaviour of analytical processes, a dynamic system of deviation control is discussed. Originating from industrial process control, measurability and controllability rules as measures of the optimum reconstructing and controlling efficiency of quality control systems are introduced. It is seen that when trying to reconstruct and control and analytical process, properties of the process and characteristics of the control system need to be taken into consideration. Application of these rules offers the possibility of investigating the effect of actions aimed at improving the performance of a controlling system, but also indicates if a certain precision requirement can be achieved with less effort and expense. An example illustrates the time variant behaviour of an analytical process used for urea determination in a clinical chemistry laboratory. It shows the applicability of measurability and controllability rules, with the emphasis on the measuring or reconstructing efficiency of the controlling system used in that laboratory for the surveillance of the urea determination.", "contents": "Dynamic deviation control in clinical chemistry laboratories based on the time variant behaviour of analytical processes. Based on the time variant behaviour of analytical processes, a dynamic system of deviation control is discussed. Originating from industrial process control, measurability and controllability rules as measures of the optimum reconstructing and controlling efficiency of quality control systems are introduced. It is seen that when trying to reconstruct and control and analytical process, properties of the process and characteristics of the control system need to be taken into consideration. Application of these rules offers the possibility of investigating the effect of actions aimed at improving the performance of a controlling system, but also indicates if a certain precision requirement can be achieved with less effort and expense. An example illustrates the time variant behaviour of an analytical process used for urea determination in a clinical chemistry laboratory. It shows the applicability of measurability and controllability rules, with the emphasis on the measuring or reconstructing efficiency of the controlling system used in that laboratory for the surveillance of the urea determination.", "PMID": 455727} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11814", "title": "Determination of D-penicillamine in serum and urine of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "A chromatographic auto-analyser method is described for the determination of total D-penicillamine in biological fluids. After oxidation with performic acid, D-penicillaminic acid is separated from other ninhydrin-positive acidic amino acids by anion-exchange chromatography. Total cysteine/cystine is simultaneously determined as cysteic acid, which makes the method equally suitable for patients with cystinuria. The detection limit in serum and urine is 2 microM D-penicillamine, which is more than sufficient for clinical application. The metabolite S-methyl-D-penicillamine is oxidized by performic acid to a sulphone, which can be determined after separation by cation-exchange chromatography.", "contents": "Determination of D-penicillamine in serum and urine of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. A chromatographic auto-analyser method is described for the determination of total D-penicillamine in biological fluids. After oxidation with performic acid, D-penicillaminic acid is separated from other ninhydrin-positive acidic amino acids by anion-exchange chromatography. Total cysteine/cystine is simultaneously determined as cysteic acid, which makes the method equally suitable for patients with cystinuria. The detection limit in serum and urine is 2 microM D-penicillamine, which is more than sufficient for clinical application. The metabolite S-methyl-D-penicillamine is oxidized by performic acid to a sulphone, which can be determined after separation by cation-exchange chromatography.", "PMID": 455728} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11815", "title": "Water movement in red cells from burned patients. Its relationship to sodium retention and red cell filtrability.", "content": "Nine burned patients were investigated. Urinary sodium retention was associated with low red cell water and reduced red cell filtrability. The red cells from patients who recovered lost less water than normal cells when suspended in hypertonic NaCl solution but the proportionality of water loss or gain found for normal cells was maintained. The red cells from fatally burned patients lost proportional behaviour in hypertonic or hypotonic media. The abnormalities are not related to the area of the burn and may be the result of varying therapy. The monitoring of red cell water and water movement under tonicity stress is a convenient measure of the metabolic state of the cell.", "contents": "Water movement in red cells from burned patients. Its relationship to sodium retention and red cell filtrability. Nine burned patients were investigated. Urinary sodium retention was associated with low red cell water and reduced red cell filtrability. The red cells from patients who recovered lost less water than normal cells when suspended in hypertonic NaCl solution but the proportionality of water loss or gain found for normal cells was maintained. The red cells from fatally burned patients lost proportional behaviour in hypertonic or hypotonic media. The abnormalities are not related to the area of the burn and may be the result of varying therapy. The monitoring of red cell water and water movement under tonicity stress is a convenient measure of the metabolic state of the cell.", "PMID": 455729} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11816", "title": "Change in bile secretion in patients with calcium carbonate in their gallstones.", "content": "Common duct bile in patients with gallstones contains virtually no amylase activity. Therefore the raised levels of total CO2 concentrations found in common duct bile from patients with some calcium carbonate on the surface of their gallstones do not result from a reflux of pancreatic juice. A change in bile secretion is the likely explanation.", "contents": "Change in bile secretion in patients with calcium carbonate in their gallstones. Common duct bile in patients with gallstones contains virtually no amylase activity. Therefore the raised levels of total CO2 concentrations found in common duct bile from patients with some calcium carbonate on the surface of their gallstones do not result from a reflux of pancreatic juice. A change in bile secretion is the likely explanation.", "PMID": 455730} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11817", "title": "The recordings and cerebral properties of unaveraged electroretinograms in routine EEG's.", "content": "The occurrence of single unaveraged ERG activity in routine EEG's is documented in this report. The ERG activity is focal at Fp1 or Fp2 and often restricted to these electrodes. Mean values of latency and amplitude are 51.5 mSec and 31.8 uv. Significant differences with age, sex and light intensity are shown identical to those of corneally-recorded ERG's.", "contents": "The recordings and cerebral properties of unaveraged electroretinograms in routine EEG's. The occurrence of single unaveraged ERG activity in routine EEG's is documented in this report. The ERG activity is focal at Fp1 or Fp2 and often restricted to these electrodes. Mean values of latency and amplitude are 51.5 mSec and 31.8 uv. Significant differences with age, sex and light intensity are shown identical to those of corneally-recorded ERG's.", "PMID": 455732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11818", "title": "EEG's in an alcohol detoxification and treatment center.", "content": "EEG's were carried out on two hundred and one (201) alcoholics admitted to a four week treatment program. The majority were grossly intoxicated on admission and presented the usual differential problems during the first few days of hospitalization. In spite of therapeutic doses of medication before testing, 85% had totally normal EEG's and only 5.5% revealed clearly abnormal tracings. Of those for whom repeat records were later obtained, four of six with an abnormality showed a persistance of abnormality suggesting underlying organic dysfunction and not just \"intoxication\". EEG has a place in identification of the alcoholic patient at greater risk for neurological complications and may be useful in alerting the psychiatrist to obtain additional personal and family history, neurological examination, and when appropriate, further tests for potential structural abnormality. Routine use of structural tests such as computerized scan will aid in the identification of serious structural abnormalities but will not identify equally serious disorganizing functional abnormalities.", "contents": "EEG's in an alcohol detoxification and treatment center. EEG's were carried out on two hundred and one (201) alcoholics admitted to a four week treatment program. The majority were grossly intoxicated on admission and presented the usual differential problems during the first few days of hospitalization. In spite of therapeutic doses of medication before testing, 85% had totally normal EEG's and only 5.5% revealed clearly abnormal tracings. Of those for whom repeat records were later obtained, four of six with an abnormality showed a persistance of abnormality suggesting underlying organic dysfunction and not just \"intoxication\". EEG has a place in identification of the alcoholic patient at greater risk for neurological complications and may be useful in alerting the psychiatrist to obtain additional personal and family history, neurological examination, and when appropriate, further tests for potential structural abnormality. Routine use of structural tests such as computerized scan will aid in the identification of serious structural abnormalities but will not identify equally serious disorganizing functional abnormalities.", "PMID": 455734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11819", "title": "Pituitary-gonadal dysfunction in low-output cardiac failure.", "content": "Diminished cardiac output and digoxin therapy appear to have opposing effects on testosterone, oestradiol and luteinizing hormone concentrations. Depression of the levels of these hormones was significantly correlated with a decrease in cardiac index and elevation was noted by digoxin therapy of long duration. The effect of cardiac output is most marked on testosterone and that of digoxin on oestradiol.", "contents": "Pituitary-gonadal dysfunction in low-output cardiac failure. Diminished cardiac output and digoxin therapy appear to have opposing effects on testosterone, oestradiol and luteinizing hormone concentrations. Depression of the levels of these hormones was significantly correlated with a decrease in cardiac index and elevation was noted by digoxin therapy of long duration. The effect of cardiac output is most marked on testosterone and that of digoxin on oestradiol.", "PMID": 455737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11820", "title": "Effect of the angiotensin II antagonist saralasin on plasma aldosterone concentration and on blood pressure before and during sodium depletion in normal subjects.", "content": "The effect of the angiotensin II antagonist saralasin on plasma aldosterone, plasma angiotensin II and blood pressure was studied in six normal supine subjects both before and during sodium depletion. Before sodium depletion, infusion of saralasin produced no consistent changes; during sodium depletion, infusion of the angiotensin antagonist caused a fall in plasma aldosterone and an increase in plasma angiotensin II in each subject. It is concluded that angiotensin II plays a major part in stimulating aldosterone secretion during sodium depletion in man.", "contents": "Effect of the angiotensin II antagonist saralasin on plasma aldosterone concentration and on blood pressure before and during sodium depletion in normal subjects. The effect of the angiotensin II antagonist saralasin on plasma aldosterone, plasma angiotensin II and blood pressure was studied in six normal supine subjects both before and during sodium depletion. Before sodium depletion, infusion of saralasin produced no consistent changes; during sodium depletion, infusion of the angiotensin antagonist caused a fall in plasma aldosterone and an increase in plasma angiotensin II in each subject. It is concluded that angiotensin II plays a major part in stimulating aldosterone secretion during sodium depletion in man.", "PMID": 455738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11821", "title": "Presence of positive feedback between oestrogen and LH in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome, and Sertoli-cell-only syndrome.", "content": "In five adult patients with Klinefelter's syndrome and two with Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, exogenous administration of 17 beta-oestradiol, resulting in a sustained and prolonged elevation of circulating oestrogen levels, had a biphasic effect on LH release. After an initial decrease, a dramatic rise in peripheral levels of LH (positive feedback) was observed in all patients. The timing and magnitude of the induced LH surge was similar to that observed in postmenopausal women after administration of large doses of Ethinyloestradiol. A similar positive feedback effect on the secretion of FSH could not be demonstrated. In two patients with the Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, oestrogen treatment induced marked variations in serum testosterone levels, which appeared to be related to the LH changes. Similar changes were not present in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome, indicating a decrease in the sensitivity of the testicular Leydig cell. These experiments demonstrate that positive feedback between oestrogen and luteinizing hormone is present in the adult human male.", "contents": "Presence of positive feedback between oestrogen and LH in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome, and Sertoli-cell-only syndrome. In five adult patients with Klinefelter's syndrome and two with Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, exogenous administration of 17 beta-oestradiol, resulting in a sustained and prolonged elevation of circulating oestrogen levels, had a biphasic effect on LH release. After an initial decrease, a dramatic rise in peripheral levels of LH (positive feedback) was observed in all patients. The timing and magnitude of the induced LH surge was similar to that observed in postmenopausal women after administration of large doses of Ethinyloestradiol. A similar positive feedback effect on the secretion of FSH could not be demonstrated. In two patients with the Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, oestrogen treatment induced marked variations in serum testosterone levels, which appeared to be related to the LH changes. Similar changes were not present in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome, indicating a decrease in the sensitivity of the testicular Leydig cell. These experiments demonstrate that positive feedback between oestrogen and luteinizing hormone is present in the adult human male.", "PMID": 455739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11822", "title": "Individual neurophysin concentrations in the pituitary and circulation of humans.", "content": "Specific, homologous human neurophysin I and II radioimmunoassays were established and used to measure the individual, immunoreactive neurophysin concentrations in human plasma. Circulating levels of human neurophysin I in normal individuals were less than 1 ng/ml and neurophysin II levels were 1-2 ng/ml. During dehydration, there was a significant rise in plasma neurophysin I, together with an increase in neurophysin II. Haemorrhage also was associated with a rise in plasma neurophysin I and II, but the percent increase was greater for I than II. In two subjects in whom nicotine inhalation caused a rise in plasma neurophysin I, there was no detectable increase in plasma neurophysin II. These stimuli which have been reported to release vasopressin from the posterior pituitary also are associated with the differential release of neurophysin I. Plasma neurophysin II levels could more clearly be shown to rise independently of plasma neurophysin I during events thought to be related to oxytocin release. Plasma neurophysin II levels were significantly elevated in women taking oral contraceptives. Similarly during pregnancy there was a progressive rise in plasma neurophysin II concentration which was proportional to the period of gestation. Plasma neurophysin II concentrations in seven of fifteen nursing women rose significantly during suckling. There was no detectable change in plasma neurophysin I concentrations during any of these events. Plasma neurophysin I and II levels were both significantly elevated in fourteen patients with chronic renal failure and rose over haemodialysis, suggesting that the kidney may be the major route of clearance of the neurophysins. In humans the independent release of neurophysin II was associated with stimuli thought to release oxytocin, but neurophysin I showed only a differential release compared to neurophysin II in vasopressin stimulated events.", "contents": "Individual neurophysin concentrations in the pituitary and circulation of humans. Specific, homologous human neurophysin I and II radioimmunoassays were established and used to measure the individual, immunoreactive neurophysin concentrations in human plasma. Circulating levels of human neurophysin I in normal individuals were less than 1 ng/ml and neurophysin II levels were 1-2 ng/ml. During dehydration, there was a significant rise in plasma neurophysin I, together with an increase in neurophysin II. Haemorrhage also was associated with a rise in plasma neurophysin I and II, but the percent increase was greater for I than II. In two subjects in whom nicotine inhalation caused a rise in plasma neurophysin I, there was no detectable increase in plasma neurophysin II. These stimuli which have been reported to release vasopressin from the posterior pituitary also are associated with the differential release of neurophysin I. Plasma neurophysin II levels could more clearly be shown to rise independently of plasma neurophysin I during events thought to be related to oxytocin release. Plasma neurophysin II levels were significantly elevated in women taking oral contraceptives. Similarly during pregnancy there was a progressive rise in plasma neurophysin II concentration which was proportional to the period of gestation. Plasma neurophysin II concentrations in seven of fifteen nursing women rose significantly during suckling. There was no detectable change in plasma neurophysin I concentrations during any of these events. Plasma neurophysin I and II levels were both significantly elevated in fourteen patients with chronic renal failure and rose over haemodialysis, suggesting that the kidney may be the major route of clearance of the neurophysins. In humans the independent release of neurophysin II was associated with stimuli thought to release oxytocin, but neurophysin I showed only a differential release compared to neurophysin II in vasopressin stimulated events.", "PMID": 455740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11823", "title": "The relationship between the 'idiopathic oedema syndrome' and subclinical hypothyroidism.", "content": "Thyroid function has been studied in eleven patients with the 'idiopathic oedema syndrome'. Six patients have been shown to have subclinical hypothyroidism associated with the presence of thyroid antibodies. All responded to treatment with sodium thyroxine. Five patients had normal thyroid function, absence of thyroid antibodies and failed to respond to treatment with sodium thyroxine.", "contents": "The relationship between the 'idiopathic oedema syndrome' and subclinical hypothyroidism. Thyroid function has been studied in eleven patients with the 'idiopathic oedema syndrome'. Six patients have been shown to have subclinical hypothyroidism associated with the presence of thyroid antibodies. All responded to treatment with sodium thyroxine. Five patients had normal thyroid function, absence of thyroid antibodies and failed to respond to treatment with sodium thyroxine.", "PMID": 455741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11824", "title": "Hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle in women with breast cancer: effect of adjuvant chemotherapy.", "content": "The hormonal features of the menstrual cycle determined by measurement of serum LH, FSH, oestradiol, progesterone and prolactin were normal in thirteen breast cancer patients clinically disease free and not taking anti-tumour therapy. Results of similar studies during seven menstrual cycles in four patients on an adjuvant therapy programme of L-phenylalanine mustard (L-PAM) + 5-flurouracil (5-FU) also had normal hormonal characteristics after three to fourteen courses of chemotherapy. Amenorrhoea with elevated gonadotrophins occurred after seven courses of chemotherapy in one 48-year-old woman. Adjuvant chemotherapy does not appear to result in major alterations in hormone secretion during menstrual cycles of women who continue to menstruate while on therapy.", "contents": "Hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle in women with breast cancer: effect of adjuvant chemotherapy. The hormonal features of the menstrual cycle determined by measurement of serum LH, FSH, oestradiol, progesterone and prolactin were normal in thirteen breast cancer patients clinically disease free and not taking anti-tumour therapy. Results of similar studies during seven menstrual cycles in four patients on an adjuvant therapy programme of L-phenylalanine mustard (L-PAM) + 5-flurouracil (5-FU) also had normal hormonal characteristics after three to fourteen courses of chemotherapy. Amenorrhoea with elevated gonadotrophins occurred after seven courses of chemotherapy in one 48-year-old woman. Adjuvant chemotherapy does not appear to result in major alterations in hormone secretion during menstrual cycles of women who continue to menstruate while on therapy.", "PMID": 455742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11825", "title": "Exchange of triiodothyronine derived from thyroxine with circulating triiodothyronine as studied in the rat.", "content": "At present it is widely assumed that T3 derived from T4 is rapidly and totally exchangeable within the volume of distribution of T3 secreted by the thyroid into the bloodstream. This concept is implied when conclusions are drawn from comparisons between a biological effect in a responsive tissue and circulating T3 and T4 levels. Such conclusions are often in conflict with those derived by comparing the biological effect with the concentrations of T3 and T4 in the responsive tissue itself. Thus, it appeared important to test the above assumption directly. Thyroidectomized rats have been treated for 4-4 1/2 days with a mixture of 131I labelled T4 (131T4) and 125I labelled T3 (125T3), which was either injected twice daily or administered by continuous i.v. infusion. The rats were bled, perfused, and their plasma and tissues submitted to extraction and paper chromatography. If the tested assumption were correct, the ratio between the T3 derived from T4 and the T3 injected as such (namely, the 131T3/125T3 ratio) should be the same in plasma, liver, kidney, heart, muscle, etc. It was evident that the 131T3/125T3 ratio was not the same for different tissues. The differences were not merely due to artefactual deiodinations. The presence of small amounts of 131I and 125I containing compounds in the T3 spot was considered as highly unlikely, though not totally excluded. The data thus suggest that T3 derived from T4 and the injected (or thyroidally secreted) T3 might not be totally exchangeable within an observation period which is considerably longer than the one for which complete equilibrium was previously assumed. If so, changes in the size of the T4 pool, or in the rate of T4 conversion to T3, might affect the concentration of T3 in a given tissue to an extent not disclosed from the circulating T3 levels alone. Several possible consequences of the present findings are discussed.", "contents": "Exchange of triiodothyronine derived from thyroxine with circulating triiodothyronine as studied in the rat. At present it is widely assumed that T3 derived from T4 is rapidly and totally exchangeable within the volume of distribution of T3 secreted by the thyroid into the bloodstream. This concept is implied when conclusions are drawn from comparisons between a biological effect in a responsive tissue and circulating T3 and T4 levels. Such conclusions are often in conflict with those derived by comparing the biological effect with the concentrations of T3 and T4 in the responsive tissue itself. Thus, it appeared important to test the above assumption directly. Thyroidectomized rats have been treated for 4-4 1/2 days with a mixture of 131I labelled T4 (131T4) and 125I labelled T3 (125T3), which was either injected twice daily or administered by continuous i.v. infusion. The rats were bled, perfused, and their plasma and tissues submitted to extraction and paper chromatography. If the tested assumption were correct, the ratio between the T3 derived from T4 and the T3 injected as such (namely, the 131T3/125T3 ratio) should be the same in plasma, liver, kidney, heart, muscle, etc. It was evident that the 131T3/125T3 ratio was not the same for different tissues. The differences were not merely due to artefactual deiodinations. The presence of small amounts of 131I and 125I containing compounds in the T3 spot was considered as highly unlikely, though not totally excluded. The data thus suggest that T3 derived from T4 and the injected (or thyroidally secreted) T3 might not be totally exchangeable within an observation period which is considerably longer than the one for which complete equilibrium was previously assumed. If so, changes in the size of the T4 pool, or in the rate of T4 conversion to T3, might affect the concentration of T3 in a given tissue to an extent not disclosed from the circulating T3 levels alone. Several possible consequences of the present findings are discussed.", "PMID": 455743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11826", "title": "Experiences of patients who undergo laryngectomy.", "content": "Fifty patients undergoing laryngectomy are described. The sociological and psychological consequences of the operation for the patient and his relatives are described, and the factors which govern the development of oesophageal speech.", "contents": "Experiences of patients who undergo laryngectomy. Fifty patients undergoing laryngectomy are described. The sociological and psychological consequences of the operation for the patient and his relatives are described, and the factors which govern the development of oesophageal speech.", "PMID": 455768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11827", "title": "Longterm results of ultrasonic irradiation in Meniere's disease.", "content": "Thirty-seven patients with M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease were treated with ultrasonic irradiation to the lateral and superior semicircular canals. In a longterm follow-up study, lasting alleviation of the vertiginous attacks was found in 24 out of 33 patients (72%). In most of the cases, hearing remained unchanged. It is suggested that the therapeutic effect is associated with a change in the endolymphatic drainage dur to histological alterations in the labyrinth produced by ultrasound.", "contents": "Longterm results of ultrasonic irradiation in Meniere's disease. Thirty-seven patients with M\u00e9ni\u00e8re's disease were treated with ultrasonic irradiation to the lateral and superior semicircular canals. In a longterm follow-up study, lasting alleviation of the vertiginous attacks was found in 24 out of 33 patients (72%). In most of the cases, hearing remained unchanged. It is suggested that the therapeutic effect is associated with a change in the endolymphatic drainage dur to histological alterations in the labyrinth produced by ultrasound.", "PMID": 455769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11828", "title": "Unilateral grommet insertion and adenoidectomy in bilateral secretory otitis media: preliminary report of the results in 91 children.", "content": "This study evaluates whether the use of grommets in the primary treatment really changes the course of secretory otitis media. The patient acts as his own control. Bilateral cases are selected and one ear is treated by a grommet, the other left intact, and all have their adenoids removed. Until now 91 children have been entered. A repeated operation was done in 13, and 6 of them had a contralateral grommet because of persisting middle ear effusion. A discharge occured from 25% of the operated ears. After the operation the intact ear showed a great improvement in the function of the Eustachian tube according to the tympanograms. The hearing level was normalized within 3 months in both intact and operated ears. In 28 children the grommets had been extruded for more than one month. By comparing the intact and the operated ears no significant statistical difference was found.", "contents": "Unilateral grommet insertion and adenoidectomy in bilateral secretory otitis media: preliminary report of the results in 91 children. This study evaluates whether the use of grommets in the primary treatment really changes the course of secretory otitis media. The patient acts as his own control. Bilateral cases are selected and one ear is treated by a grommet, the other left intact, and all have their adenoids removed. Until now 91 children have been entered. A repeated operation was done in 13, and 6 of them had a contralateral grommet because of persisting middle ear effusion. A discharge occured from 25% of the operated ears. After the operation the intact ear showed a great improvement in the function of the Eustachian tube according to the tympanograms. The hearing level was normalized within 3 months in both intact and operated ears. In 28 children the grommets had been extruded for more than one month. By comparing the intact and the operated ears no significant statistical difference was found.", "PMID": 455774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11829", "title": "Rehabilitation of the hearing impaired adult in Denmark.", "content": "An outline is given of the rehabilitation of the hearing impaired adult in Denmark. Emphasis is put on the comprehensiveness and the professionalism of the services provided.", "contents": "Rehabilitation of the hearing impaired adult in Denmark. An outline is given of the rehabilitation of the hearing impaired adult in Denmark. Emphasis is put on the comprehensiveness and the professionalism of the services provided.", "PMID": 455775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11830", "title": "The development of audiological services in the Cardiff area.", "content": "An account of the development of audiological services in the Cardiff area is presented so that otolaryngologists may be encouraged to extend and improve the facilities present in their locality.", "contents": "The development of audiological services in the Cardiff area. An account of the development of audiological services in the Cardiff area is presented so that otolaryngologists may be encouraged to extend and improve the facilities present in their locality.", "PMID": 455776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11831", "title": "The mediation of the localization of polymorphonuclear leucocytes in glomeruli during the autologous phase of nephrotoxic nephritis.", "content": "A passive model of the autologous phase of nephrotoxic nephritis (NTN) in rabbits was developed to study the events at the initiation of this stage of the disease. Intravenous injection of sheep anti-rabbit glomerular basement membrane antiserum was followed 48 hr later by 125I trace labelled rabbit anti-sheep IgG. Animals were killed 3 hr after the second antibody injection. Experiments were undertaken to investigate whether or not a reaction between the passive antibody Fc piece and polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMN) Fc receptor occurred, causing the localization of PMN in glomeruli in the autologous phase of NTN. The results indicate that such a reaction is an important, but not exclusive, factor in glomerular PMN localization. The complement independence of the localization was confirmed. In addition, it appeared that PMN-dependent intraglomerular fibrin deposition was mediated exclusively by a reaction between antibody Fc piece and PMN Fc receptor.", "contents": "The mediation of the localization of polymorphonuclear leucocytes in glomeruli during the autologous phase of nephrotoxic nephritis. A passive model of the autologous phase of nephrotoxic nephritis (NTN) in rabbits was developed to study the events at the initiation of this stage of the disease. Intravenous injection of sheep anti-rabbit glomerular basement membrane antiserum was followed 48 hr later by 125I trace labelled rabbit anti-sheep IgG. Animals were killed 3 hr after the second antibody injection. Experiments were undertaken to investigate whether or not a reaction between the passive antibody Fc piece and polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMN) Fc receptor occurred, causing the localization of PMN in glomeruli in the autologous phase of NTN. The results indicate that such a reaction is an important, but not exclusive, factor in glomerular PMN localization. The complement independence of the localization was confirmed. In addition, it appeared that PMN-dependent intraglomerular fibrin deposition was mediated exclusively by a reaction between antibody Fc piece and PMN Fc receptor.", "PMID": 455777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11832", "title": "DNA binding activity of serum from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "The reaction conditions essential for reproducible use of the cellulose ester membrane filter assay for anti-DNA antibody levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are described. A dependence of DNA-binding capacity on serum concentration was observed in the assay, requiring that serum concentrations be comparable in determinations of DNA-binding activity of different sera and when comparing different published studies. The DNA-binding capacity of serum from lupus patients was found to be significantly different from that of healthy controls. However, the binding capacities were not significantly different between lupus patients with and without nephritis. The relative avidity of the anti-DNA antibodies were estimated from plots of 1/DNA bound vs 1/DNA free and these data indicate that the avidities of the antibodies from the two groups of lupus patients are not significantly different. This observation suggests that the tightness of binding between the DNA and the serum anti-DNA antibodies cannot be used to predict immune complex-induced nephritis in lupus patients.", "contents": "DNA binding activity of serum from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. The reaction conditions essential for reproducible use of the cellulose ester membrane filter assay for anti-DNA antibody levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are described. A dependence of DNA-binding capacity on serum concentration was observed in the assay, requiring that serum concentrations be comparable in determinations of DNA-binding activity of different sera and when comparing different published studies. The DNA-binding capacity of serum from lupus patients was found to be significantly different from that of healthy controls. However, the binding capacities were not significantly different between lupus patients with and without nephritis. The relative avidity of the anti-DNA antibodies were estimated from plots of 1/DNA bound vs 1/DNA free and these data indicate that the avidities of the antibodies from the two groups of lupus patients are not significantly different. This observation suggests that the tightness of binding between the DNA and the serum anti-DNA antibodies cannot be used to predict immune complex-induced nephritis in lupus patients.", "PMID": 455778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11833", "title": "Effect of chronic developmental lead exposure on cell-mediated immune functions.", "content": "Studies were performed to investigate the effects of chronic, low level pre- and post-natal lead exposure on cell-mediated immune function in rats. Weanling female rats were exposed to lead (as lead acetate) in their drinking water at 0, 25, and 50 ppm for 7 weeks. At the end of 7 weeks they were mated with untreated males and continued on the same dosage throughout gestation and lactation. The offspring of these females were weaned at 21 days of age and continued on the same lead exposure regimen as their mothers. These offspring were used in immune surveillance procedures between 35 and 45 days of age. Lead exposure at the levels employed had no statistically significant effect on growth and did not result in overt signs of toxicity. Thymic weights were significantly decreased in both males and females of the two lead dosage groups. Furthermore, lead exposure resulted in suppression of responsiveness of lymphocytes to mitogen stimulation and in reduced delayed hypersensitivity responsiveness. Results indicate that chronic low-level lead exposure causes suppression of cell-mediated immune function.", "contents": "Effect of chronic developmental lead exposure on cell-mediated immune functions. Studies were performed to investigate the effects of chronic, low level pre- and post-natal lead exposure on cell-mediated immune function in rats. Weanling female rats were exposed to lead (as lead acetate) in their drinking water at 0, 25, and 50 ppm for 7 weeks. At the end of 7 weeks they were mated with untreated males and continued on the same dosage throughout gestation and lactation. The offspring of these females were weaned at 21 days of age and continued on the same lead exposure regimen as their mothers. These offspring were used in immune surveillance procedures between 35 and 45 days of age. Lead exposure at the levels employed had no statistically significant effect on growth and did not result in overt signs of toxicity. Thymic weights were significantly decreased in both males and females of the two lead dosage groups. Furthermore, lead exposure resulted in suppression of responsiveness of lymphocytes to mitogen stimulation and in reduced delayed hypersensitivity responsiveness. Results indicate that chronic low-level lead exposure causes suppression of cell-mediated immune function.", "PMID": 455779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11834", "title": "Tissue distribution of brain-thymus shared antigens recognized by anti-brain xenosera in the rat, dog and man.", "content": "A comparative and quantitative study of the tissue distribution of brain-thymus shared antigens was carried out using rabbit antisera to rat, dog and human brain homogenates, assayed on rat, dog and human thymus cells, respectively. Quantitative absorption analyses with eleven different tissues showed that the tissue distribution of the brain-thymus antigens was strikingly different in the three species. In the rat, the antigens were present in large amounts on both brain and thymus, to a lesser extent on bone marrow cells, but not at all, or only slightly, on the other tissues studied. In the dog, the shared antigens were present in large amounts only on brain. They were present in smaller amounts (approximately 5% compared with brain) on thymus, spleen, lymph node and, unexpectedly, kidney, and to a slight extent on bone marrow cells. In both rat and dog, absorption to a plateau with liver indicated the presence of brain-thymus shared antigens of restricted tissue distribution. No brain-thymus antigens of restricted tissue distribution could be detected in man, since liver, heart, kidney, brain and all other tissue studied, excepting erythrocytes and platelets, could absorb out all the antibody.", "contents": "Tissue distribution of brain-thymus shared antigens recognized by anti-brain xenosera in the rat, dog and man. A comparative and quantitative study of the tissue distribution of brain-thymus shared antigens was carried out using rabbit antisera to rat, dog and human brain homogenates, assayed on rat, dog and human thymus cells, respectively. Quantitative absorption analyses with eleven different tissues showed that the tissue distribution of the brain-thymus antigens was strikingly different in the three species. In the rat, the antigens were present in large amounts on both brain and thymus, to a lesser extent on bone marrow cells, but not at all, or only slightly, on the other tissues studied. In the dog, the shared antigens were present in large amounts only on brain. They were present in smaller amounts (approximately 5% compared with brain) on thymus, spleen, lymph node and, unexpectedly, kidney, and to a slight extent on bone marrow cells. In both rat and dog, absorption to a plateau with liver indicated the presence of brain-thymus shared antigens of restricted tissue distribution. No brain-thymus antigens of restricted tissue distribution could be detected in man, since liver, heart, kidney, brain and all other tissue studied, excepting erythrocytes and platelets, could absorb out all the antibody.", "PMID": 455780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11835", "title": "Deficiency in kwashiorkor serum of factors required for optimal lymphocyte transformation in vitro.", "content": "Blastogenic responses of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes cultured in media supplemented with serum from children with kwashiorkor were, on average, 47.7% of those observed when the same cells were cultured in the presence of normal AB serum. Incorporation of radioactive uridine was also diminished in the presence of normal AB serum. Incorporation of radioactive uridine was also diminished in the presence of kwashiorkor serum indicating that lectin-induced RNA synthesis was also affected. The kwashiorkor serum effect was not due to a cytotoxic action nor could it be attributed to the presence of saccharides or other inhibitors of the inducing lectins. Mixing experiments showed that kwashiorkor serum was not inhibitory, but that it lacked factors present in normal serum that are required for optimal lymphocyte blastogenesis. The deficiency of these factors could largely be rectified by supplementing kwashiorkor serum with an ultrafiltrate of normal serum containing components with molecular weights of less than 500 Daltons. We conclude that nutritional deprivation of severity sufficient to cause kwashiorkor leads to a deficiency of low molecular weight lymphocyte growth factors. This lack may contribute to the immunodeficiency associated with the disease.", "contents": "Deficiency in kwashiorkor serum of factors required for optimal lymphocyte transformation in vitro. Blastogenic responses of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes cultured in media supplemented with serum from children with kwashiorkor were, on average, 47.7% of those observed when the same cells were cultured in the presence of normal AB serum. Incorporation of radioactive uridine was also diminished in the presence of normal AB serum. Incorporation of radioactive uridine was also diminished in the presence of kwashiorkor serum indicating that lectin-induced RNA synthesis was also affected. The kwashiorkor serum effect was not due to a cytotoxic action nor could it be attributed to the presence of saccharides or other inhibitors of the inducing lectins. Mixing experiments showed that kwashiorkor serum was not inhibitory, but that it lacked factors present in normal serum that are required for optimal lymphocyte blastogenesis. The deficiency of these factors could largely be rectified by supplementing kwashiorkor serum with an ultrafiltrate of normal serum containing components with molecular weights of less than 500 Daltons. We conclude that nutritional deprivation of severity sufficient to cause kwashiorkor leads to a deficiency of low molecular weight lymphocyte growth factors. This lack may contribute to the immunodeficiency associated with the disease.", "PMID": 455781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11836", "title": "Inhibition of mitogen-induced human lymphocyte proliferative responses by tetracycline analogues.", "content": "The effect of tetracyclines on mitogen-induced proliferative responses of human lymphocytes was examined. The results showed that of the three tetracycline analogues studied, doxycycline possessed the most potent inhibiting effects. This occurred at drug concentrations (1--10 micrograms/ml) easily attainable in serum during conventional dosage schedules. Other investigations have shown that tetracyclines also interfere with neutrophil function. Taken together, these findings may have clinical significance. Recovery from serious infections generally requires some minimal host immune responses, and the immunosuppressive side-effects of tetracyclines may have detrimental effects on patients with debilitating illnesses or impaired immunological defence mechanisms. Furthermore, tetracyclines may share some common properties of conventional immunosuppressive drugs, such as cytotoxicity, teratogenicity and cancerogenicity. The long-term use of tetracyclines for conditions such as chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and acne vulgaris needs to be re-examined.", "contents": "Inhibition of mitogen-induced human lymphocyte proliferative responses by tetracycline analogues. The effect of tetracyclines on mitogen-induced proliferative responses of human lymphocytes was examined. The results showed that of the three tetracycline analogues studied, doxycycline possessed the most potent inhibiting effects. This occurred at drug concentrations (1--10 micrograms/ml) easily attainable in serum during conventional dosage schedules. Other investigations have shown that tetracyclines also interfere with neutrophil function. Taken together, these findings may have clinical significance. Recovery from serious infections generally requires some minimal host immune responses, and the immunosuppressive side-effects of tetracyclines may have detrimental effects on patients with debilitating illnesses or impaired immunological defence mechanisms. Furthermore, tetracyclines may share some common properties of conventional immunosuppressive drugs, such as cytotoxicity, teratogenicity and cancerogenicity. The long-term use of tetracyclines for conditions such as chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and acne vulgaris needs to be re-examined.", "PMID": 455782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11837", "title": "ADCC against human erythrocyte target cells: role of the anti-target cell antibodies in determining lymphocyte killer activity.", "content": "Studies were undertaken to investigate the role of anti-target cell antibodies in determining whether lymphocytes can mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in vitro. Trinitrophenyl (TNP) modified Chang liver cells and human erythrocytes were employed as target cells and were coated with xenogeneic and allogeneic antibodies against TNP and natural cell surface antigens. Two cytotoxic effector cell populations were used: human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) containing both lymphocytes and monocytes, and monocyte-depleted peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). With Chang targets, both PBMC and PBL mediated ADCC with xenogeneic anti-Chang and xenogeneic anti-TNP sera. With human erythrocyte targets, PBMC but not PBL mediated ADCC with human anti-blood group B serum, while both PBMC and PBL mediated ADCC with xenogeneic anti-TNP sera and also with a human anti-CD serum. These results demonstrate that the source of anti-target cell antibodies employed in ADCC reactions may determine whether or not lymphocytes are capable of mediating cytotoxicity.", "contents": "ADCC against human erythrocyte target cells: role of the anti-target cell antibodies in determining lymphocyte killer activity. Studies were undertaken to investigate the role of anti-target cell antibodies in determining whether lymphocytes can mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in vitro. Trinitrophenyl (TNP) modified Chang liver cells and human erythrocytes were employed as target cells and were coated with xenogeneic and allogeneic antibodies against TNP and natural cell surface antigens. Two cytotoxic effector cell populations were used: human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) containing both lymphocytes and monocytes, and monocyte-depleted peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). With Chang targets, both PBMC and PBL mediated ADCC with xenogeneic anti-Chang and xenogeneic anti-TNP sera. With human erythrocyte targets, PBMC but not PBL mediated ADCC with human anti-blood group B serum, while both PBMC and PBL mediated ADCC with xenogeneic anti-TNP sera and also with a human anti-CD serum. These results demonstrate that the source of anti-target cell antibodies employed in ADCC reactions may determine whether or not lymphocytes are capable of mediating cytotoxicity.", "PMID": 455783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11838", "title": "Anaphylactic sensitivity of guinea-pigs drinking different preparations of cows' milk and infant formulae.", "content": "Guinea-pigs have been given various preparations of cows' milk or infant formulae to drink in an investigation of the capacity of these milk preparations to stimulate per os anaphylactic sensitivity. The treatment, presumably heat, used to concentrate the 'Evaporated' whole cows' milks (three brands were tested) almost abolished their sensitizing capacity to beta lactoglobulin. The brand presumed to be most heated as judged by the degree of caramelization had also lost most of its sensitizing capacity to casein. Injected parenterally, the 'Evaporated' milk adequately sensitized to anaphylaxis. An infant formula, which in its spray dried form was only moderately sensitizing to both beta lactoglobulin and casein, lost most of this sensitizing capacity when processed to a liquid concentrate state. The manufacturing process for the liquid concentrate involved greater and more prolonged heating than required for the spray-dried form. The relevance of these findings in the guinea-pig to cows' milk protein intolerance in the infant and possibly also to cot death is discussed.", "contents": "Anaphylactic sensitivity of guinea-pigs drinking different preparations of cows' milk and infant formulae. Guinea-pigs have been given various preparations of cows' milk or infant formulae to drink in an investigation of the capacity of these milk preparations to stimulate per os anaphylactic sensitivity. The treatment, presumably heat, used to concentrate the 'Evaporated' whole cows' milks (three brands were tested) almost abolished their sensitizing capacity to beta lactoglobulin. The brand presumed to be most heated as judged by the degree of caramelization had also lost most of its sensitizing capacity to casein. Injected parenterally, the 'Evaporated' milk adequately sensitized to anaphylaxis. An infant formula, which in its spray dried form was only moderately sensitizing to both beta lactoglobulin and casein, lost most of this sensitizing capacity when processed to a liquid concentrate state. The manufacturing process for the liquid concentrate involved greater and more prolonged heating than required for the spray-dried form. The relevance of these findings in the guinea-pig to cows' milk protein intolerance in the infant and possibly also to cot death is discussed.", "PMID": 455784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11839", "title": "Histamine 2 receptor-mediated immunomodulation in the mouse. I. Immunomodulation by the H2 agonist tolazoline.", "content": "Tolazoline, a drug used in the treatment of hypertension, has been described as a typical H2 agonist. In this study possible immunomodulating properties of tolazoline were investigated. A single injection of tolazoline 1 day before immunization caused an effect on delayed hypersensitivity that depended on the antigen dose. The response to 10(5) and 10(6) sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was decreased, whereas the response to 10(9) SRBC was enhanced. Administration of tolazoline 4 days after immunization predominantly affected the humoral response. The IgM response was inhibited in favour of the IgG response. Low doses of tolazoline, given to animals simultaneously with the elicitation for delayed hypersensitivity, lead to a more severe inflammation. The possible involvement of suppressor cells and vessels in tolazoline action is discussed. The application of tolazoline in the immunotherapy of human cancer is suggested.", "contents": "Histamine 2 receptor-mediated immunomodulation in the mouse. I. Immunomodulation by the H2 agonist tolazoline. Tolazoline, a drug used in the treatment of hypertension, has been described as a typical H2 agonist. In this study possible immunomodulating properties of tolazoline were investigated. A single injection of tolazoline 1 day before immunization caused an effect on delayed hypersensitivity that depended on the antigen dose. The response to 10(5) and 10(6) sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was decreased, whereas the response to 10(9) SRBC was enhanced. Administration of tolazoline 4 days after immunization predominantly affected the humoral response. The IgM response was inhibited in favour of the IgG response. Low doses of tolazoline, given to animals simultaneously with the elicitation for delayed hypersensitivity, lead to a more severe inflammation. The possible involvement of suppressor cells and vessels in tolazoline action is discussed. The application of tolazoline in the immunotherapy of human cancer is suggested.", "PMID": 455785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11840", "title": "The in vitro evaluation of certain neutrophil and lymphocyte functions following the ingestion of 150 mg oral dose of levamisole: assessment of the extent and duration of stimulation of neutrophil chemotaxis, protein iodination and lymphocyte transformation.", "content": "Certain functions of human blood neutrophils and lymphocytes were investigated at varying time intervals after the ingestion of a single 150 mg dose of levamisole. The functions tested were neutrophil chemotaxis and post-phagocytic metabolic activity and mitogen-induced DNA and protein synthesis of lymphocytes. It was found that levamisole causes a stimulation of neutrophils motility (cell- and serum-associated) and post-phagocytic hexose monophosphate shunt activity and protein iodination. Increased lymphocyte DNA synthesis, but not protein synthesis, to the mitogen phytohaemagglutinin was observed. The stimulation which was detected almost immediately of these neutrophil and lymphocyte functions was still evident 24 hr later but not at 48 hr, indicating that a single oral dose of levamisole can cause the alteration (stimulation) of leucocyte functions which persists until 24--48 hr after intake of the drug.", "contents": "The in vitro evaluation of certain neutrophil and lymphocyte functions following the ingestion of 150 mg oral dose of levamisole: assessment of the extent and duration of stimulation of neutrophil chemotaxis, protein iodination and lymphocyte transformation. Certain functions of human blood neutrophils and lymphocytes were investigated at varying time intervals after the ingestion of a single 150 mg dose of levamisole. The functions tested were neutrophil chemotaxis and post-phagocytic metabolic activity and mitogen-induced DNA and protein synthesis of lymphocytes. It was found that levamisole causes a stimulation of neutrophils motility (cell- and serum-associated) and post-phagocytic hexose monophosphate shunt activity and protein iodination. Increased lymphocyte DNA synthesis, but not protein synthesis, to the mitogen phytohaemagglutinin was observed. The stimulation which was detected almost immediately of these neutrophil and lymphocyte functions was still evident 24 hr later but not at 48 hr, indicating that a single oral dose of levamisole can cause the alteration (stimulation) of leucocyte functions which persists until 24--48 hr after intake of the drug.", "PMID": 455786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11841", "title": "Phagocytic peripheral blood monocytes from rabbits and humans express membrane receptors specific for IgM molecules: evidence that incubation with neuraminidase exposes cryptic IgM (Fc) receptors.", "content": "Phagocytic human and rabbit peripheral blood monocytes, identified by their ingestion of polystyrene particles, were investigated for the presence of surface membrane receptors for IgM molecules. After incubation of freshly isolated monocytes with IgM anti-sheep erythrocyte (SRBC) preparations, a mean of 0.7% of human monocytes and a mean of 16.2% of rabbit monocytes formed rosettes with SRBC. However, if the monocytes were pre-incubated with vibrio cholerae neuraminidase (VCN), these figures increased to 32.6% and 37.8% respectively. The specificity of rosette formation by VCN-treated monocytes was established in several experiments; SRBC sensitized with a F(ab')2 preparation of an IgG anti-SRBC reagent completely failed to rosette with VCN-treated monocytes, and inclusion of IgM, but not other Ig or non-Ig protein molecules in the test medium, inhibited rosette formation. Further, and most important, rosette formation by human monocytes was inhibited by F(c)5mu but not by Fabmi fragments. These findings indicate that both rabbit and human monocytes express IgM-class specific membrane receptors for IgM molecules, that these receptors may be cryptic or hidden but can be revealed by treatment with VCN and that the human monocyte IgM receptor is F(c) specific. Further, the rabbit monocyte IgM receptor was shown to be trypsin-resistant.", "contents": "Phagocytic peripheral blood monocytes from rabbits and humans express membrane receptors specific for IgM molecules: evidence that incubation with neuraminidase exposes cryptic IgM (Fc) receptors. Phagocytic human and rabbit peripheral blood monocytes, identified by their ingestion of polystyrene particles, were investigated for the presence of surface membrane receptors for IgM molecules. After incubation of freshly isolated monocytes with IgM anti-sheep erythrocyte (SRBC) preparations, a mean of 0.7% of human monocytes and a mean of 16.2% of rabbit monocytes formed rosettes with SRBC. However, if the monocytes were pre-incubated with vibrio cholerae neuraminidase (VCN), these figures increased to 32.6% and 37.8% respectively. The specificity of rosette formation by VCN-treated monocytes was established in several experiments; SRBC sensitized with a F(ab')2 preparation of an IgG anti-SRBC reagent completely failed to rosette with VCN-treated monocytes, and inclusion of IgM, but not other Ig or non-Ig protein molecules in the test medium, inhibited rosette formation. Further, and most important, rosette formation by human monocytes was inhibited by F(c)5mu but not by Fabmi fragments. These findings indicate that both rabbit and human monocytes express IgM-class specific membrane receptors for IgM molecules, that these receptors may be cryptic or hidden but can be revealed by treatment with VCN and that the human monocyte IgM receptor is F(c) specific. Further, the rabbit monocyte IgM receptor was shown to be trypsin-resistant.", "PMID": 455787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11842", "title": "Plasma renin activity during the development of paracetamol (acetaminophen) induced acute renal failure in man.", "content": "Plasma renin activity has been measured daily in 36 patients suffering from self poisoning with acetaminophen. In 3 developing porto-systemic encephalopathy terminal renal failure developed with high plasma renin activity. In 2 who developed acute renal failure without porto-systemic encephalopathy, plasma renin activity was noted to rise before serum creatinine and to return to initial levels after 3 or 4 days while renal failure persisted. Six other patients with similar hepatic damage showed comparable rises in renin without developing renal failure. Our findings are consistent with but do not establish a pathogenetic role for renin in acetaminophen-induced acute renal failure. It is suggested that other factors may act with renin to bring about renal failure.", "contents": "Plasma renin activity during the development of paracetamol (acetaminophen) induced acute renal failure in man. Plasma renin activity has been measured daily in 36 patients suffering from self poisoning with acetaminophen. In 3 developing porto-systemic encephalopathy terminal renal failure developed with high plasma renin activity. In 2 who developed acute renal failure without porto-systemic encephalopathy, plasma renin activity was noted to rise before serum creatinine and to return to initial levels after 3 or 4 days while renal failure persisted. Six other patients with similar hepatic damage showed comparable rises in renin without developing renal failure. Our findings are consistent with but do not establish a pathogenetic role for renin in acetaminophen-induced acute renal failure. It is suggested that other factors may act with renin to bring about renal failure.", "PMID": 455818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11843", "title": "Selective vitamin B12 malabsorption with proteinuria (Imerslund-Najman-Gr\u00e4sbeck-syndrome): ultrastructural examinations on renal glomeruli.", "content": "Renal biopsy material obtained from a 6 year old girl suffering from an Imerslund-Najman-Gr\u00e4sbeck-syndrome was examined by light- and electron-microscopy. Clinically the patient presented the characteristic intrinsic factor independent vitamin B12 malabsorption with severe megaloblastic anemia and a benign nephropathy with non-selective proteinuria. Electron microscopic examination of the prenal glomeruli showed no obvious alterations of the Electron microscopic examination of the renal glomeruli showed no obvious alterations of the capillary basement membranes but revealed a considerable diffuse dilatation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum in the podocytes with accumulation of a finely fibrillar material within the widened cisternae. This finding is interpreted as an indication that the synthesis and/or secretory activities of the podocytes, as far as the basement membrane is concerned, and thus the basement membranes themselves, may be altered with the consequence of an increased permeability of the filtration barrier. Because proteinurie contrary to anemia did not respond to parenteral vitamin B12 therapy and therefore is obviously not vitamin B12 dependent, it is assumed that both vitamin B12 malabsorption and glomerulopathy in this hereditary disease are established by a pleiotropic gene or two closely associated genes.", "contents": "Selective vitamin B12 malabsorption with proteinuria (Imerslund-Najman-Gr\u00e4sbeck-syndrome): ultrastructural examinations on renal glomeruli. Renal biopsy material obtained from a 6 year old girl suffering from an Imerslund-Najman-Gr\u00e4sbeck-syndrome was examined by light- and electron-microscopy. Clinically the patient presented the characteristic intrinsic factor independent vitamin B12 malabsorption with severe megaloblastic anemia and a benign nephropathy with non-selective proteinuria. Electron microscopic examination of the prenal glomeruli showed no obvious alterations of the Electron microscopic examination of the renal glomeruli showed no obvious alterations of the capillary basement membranes but revealed a considerable diffuse dilatation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum in the podocytes with accumulation of a finely fibrillar material within the widened cisternae. This finding is interpreted as an indication that the synthesis and/or secretory activities of the podocytes, as far as the basement membrane is concerned, and thus the basement membranes themselves, may be altered with the consequence of an increased permeability of the filtration barrier. Because proteinurie contrary to anemia did not respond to parenteral vitamin B12 therapy and therefore is obviously not vitamin B12 dependent, it is assumed that both vitamin B12 malabsorption and glomerulopathy in this hereditary disease are established by a pleiotropic gene or two closely associated genes.", "PMID": 455819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11844", "title": "Nephrotic syndrome in procainamide induced lupus nephritis.", "content": "We report a case of the nephrotic syndrome occurring in a patient with procainamide induced LE. It was associated with bilateral pleural effusions, pericarditis, fever, positive LE cell preparation and a high titer of antinuclear antibodies. No anti-DNA antibodies were found. Renal biopsy showed mesangial proliferation with few IgM and C3 deposits and interstitial infiltrates; electron microscopy revealed subendothelial deposits. Clinical improvement occured after steroid therapy and there was no recurrence 24 months after withdrawal of prednisone.", "contents": "Nephrotic syndrome in procainamide induced lupus nephritis. We report a case of the nephrotic syndrome occurring in a patient with procainamide induced LE. It was associated with bilateral pleural effusions, pericarditis, fever, positive LE cell preparation and a high titer of antinuclear antibodies. No anti-DNA antibodies were found. Renal biopsy showed mesangial proliferation with few IgM and C3 deposits and interstitial infiltrates; electron microscopy revealed subendothelial deposits. Clinical improvement occured after steroid therapy and there was no recurrence 24 months after withdrawal of prednisone.", "PMID": 455820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11845", "title": "The effect of hemodialysis on endogenous middle molecules in uremic patients.", "content": "Uremic plasma and dialysis fluid were separated by high speed gel filtration followed by gradient elution ion exchange chromatography into several UV-absorbing fractions containing middle molecules (MM) (7a, b, c, etc.), which were quantitated by integrating the peak areas of the chromatograms. Dialyzer clearance of MM was determined in vivo for two dialyzers, Gambro Optima and RP-6, but no difference could be found in spite of far better in vitro MM clearance of RP-6 than of Gambro Optima. Nor was there any difference in post-dialysis decrease in MM between the two dialyzers, or between them and two dialyzers with larger surface areas (Gambro Major and Dow HK-5). In 45 determinations of MM in blood obtained before and after dialysis, using different dialyzers, the mean decrease in MM was significantly larger than for creatinine, suggesting a much smaller distribution volume immediately available for exchange. Ultrafiltration without dialysis in 7 patients induced a significant decrease in plasma MM (7a, b, c, and g) in spite of stable osmolality, urea, creatinine, and sodium concentrations in plasma, suggesting that the reduction in body water affected the net production rate of these MM. In 5 studies, using RP-6 and a 75 l recirculating dialyzate, a rapid post-dialysis rebound was observed for MM in plasma, sometimes followed by a secondary decrease in plasma concentration. The volume of distribution of dialyzed MM, assessed from pre- and post-plasma concentrations and concentrations in the dialyzate, appeared to be much smaller than for urea and creatinine. In a stable dialysis population of 17 patients, significant negative correlations were found between pre-dialysis plasma concentrations of some MM (7a, 7b, 7f, 7g) and dialysis index or endogenous renal creatinine clearance. No such correlations were found for peaks 7c and 7d. The good correlation between 7b and dialysis index (r = 0.73) suggests that plasma determination of 7b may be used as a measure of the efficiency of MM removal.", "contents": "The effect of hemodialysis on endogenous middle molecules in uremic patients. Uremic plasma and dialysis fluid were separated by high speed gel filtration followed by gradient elution ion exchange chromatography into several UV-absorbing fractions containing middle molecules (MM) (7a, b, c, etc.), which were quantitated by integrating the peak areas of the chromatograms. Dialyzer clearance of MM was determined in vivo for two dialyzers, Gambro Optima and RP-6, but no difference could be found in spite of far better in vitro MM clearance of RP-6 than of Gambro Optima. Nor was there any difference in post-dialysis decrease in MM between the two dialyzers, or between them and two dialyzers with larger surface areas (Gambro Major and Dow HK-5). In 45 determinations of MM in blood obtained before and after dialysis, using different dialyzers, the mean decrease in MM was significantly larger than for creatinine, suggesting a much smaller distribution volume immediately available for exchange. Ultrafiltration without dialysis in 7 patients induced a significant decrease in plasma MM (7a, b, c, and g) in spite of stable osmolality, urea, creatinine, and sodium concentrations in plasma, suggesting that the reduction in body water affected the net production rate of these MM. In 5 studies, using RP-6 and a 75 l recirculating dialyzate, a rapid post-dialysis rebound was observed for MM in plasma, sometimes followed by a secondary decrease in plasma concentration. The volume of distribution of dialyzed MM, assessed from pre- and post-plasma concentrations and concentrations in the dialyzate, appeared to be much smaller than for urea and creatinine. In a stable dialysis population of 17 patients, significant negative correlations were found between pre-dialysis plasma concentrations of some MM (7a, 7b, 7f, 7g) and dialysis index or endogenous renal creatinine clearance. No such correlations were found for peaks 7c and 7d. The good correlation between 7b and dialysis index (r = 0.73) suggests that plasma determination of 7b may be used as a measure of the efficiency of MM removal.", "PMID": 455822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11846", "title": "Renin-induced massive proteinuria in man.", "content": "A 30 year old man developed renovascular hypertension and extreme elevation of plasma renin activity. Daily proteinuria ranged from 13 to 31 g. There were no criteria for the diagnosis of malignant hypertension. A primary glomerulopathy was excluded by a basically normal renal biopsy from the unprotected kidney. On electron microscopy the epithelial cell foot processes were not fused, thus ruling out simultaneous lipoid nephrosis. The source of renin was removed by means of a left nephrectomy. Following the procedure the patient became normotensive, the renin values normalized and the proteinuria disappeared. The results suggest that renin can cause significant proteinuria in man.", "contents": "Renin-induced massive proteinuria in man. A 30 year old man developed renovascular hypertension and extreme elevation of plasma renin activity. Daily proteinuria ranged from 13 to 31 g. There were no criteria for the diagnosis of malignant hypertension. A primary glomerulopathy was excluded by a basically normal renal biopsy from the unprotected kidney. On electron microscopy the epithelial cell foot processes were not fused, thus ruling out simultaneous lipoid nephrosis. The source of renin was removed by means of a left nephrectomy. Following the procedure the patient became normotensive, the renin values normalized and the proteinuria disappeared. The results suggest that renin can cause significant proteinuria in man.", "PMID": 455823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11847", "title": "Viscoelastic behavior of tissue in leg lengthening by distraction.", "content": "The leg lengthening distraction procedure was analyzed with objectives of understanding complications which arise due to overstretching, establishing guidelines to the optimum distraction rates and the frequency of distraction, and, determining the final amount of leg lengthening. An electronic recording system was devised to provide continuous monitoring of the tractive load resulting from distraction of the leg during the elongation procedure. The mechanical behavior patterns of the involved stretched tissues domonstrate time-dependent viscoelastic effects during distraction. During a leg lenthening procedure it is desirable to establish, if possible, a regular pattern of distraction early in the process. If it is necessary in the course of treatment to reduce the distraction rate for clinical reasons, then it is preferable to keep the same number of distraction events but reduce the distraction amount. Distract at equally spaced time intervals to obtain repetitive load cycles and thereby reduce peak values of load and maintain similar stress relaxation patterns for each instantaneous load increase. The total amount of lengthening depends on the characteristics of each individual leg length discrepancy and the physical properties of each distracted tissue.", "contents": "Viscoelastic behavior of tissue in leg lengthening by distraction. The leg lengthening distraction procedure was analyzed with objectives of understanding complications which arise due to overstretching, establishing guidelines to the optimum distraction rates and the frequency of distraction, and, determining the final amount of leg lengthening. An electronic recording system was devised to provide continuous monitoring of the tractive load resulting from distraction of the leg during the elongation procedure. The mechanical behavior patterns of the involved stretched tissues domonstrate time-dependent viscoelastic effects during distraction. During a leg lenthening procedure it is desirable to establish, if possible, a regular pattern of distraction early in the process. If it is necessary in the course of treatment to reduce the distraction rate for clinical reasons, then it is preferable to keep the same number of distraction events but reduce the distraction amount. Distract at equally spaced time intervals to obtain repetitive load cycles and thereby reduce peak values of load and maintain similar stress relaxation patterns for each instantaneous load increase. The total amount of lengthening depends on the characteristics of each individual leg length discrepancy and the physical properties of each distracted tissue.", "PMID": 455825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11848", "title": "Pediatric osteomyelitis: II. Arizona hinshawii osteomyelitis.", "content": "Two children with sickle cell disease and kwashiorkor developed osteomyelitis caused by an Arizona hinshawii infection. Biologically, this organism is related to the Salmonella species. The infections were successfully treated by surgical drainage and chloramphenicol.", "contents": "Pediatric osteomyelitis: II. Arizona hinshawii osteomyelitis. Two children with sickle cell disease and kwashiorkor developed osteomyelitis caused by an Arizona hinshawii infection. Biologically, this organism is related to the Salmonella species. The infections were successfully treated by surgical drainage and chloramphenicol.", "PMID": 455826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11849", "title": "A study of radioulnar movements following fractures of the forearm in children.", "content": "The range of radioulnar movements, following fractures of the forearm bones treated conservatively in 53 children under the age of 15 years, was measured by a goniometer. The most common age group was 6-10 years. All fractures united within 8 weeks and the average follow-up was 3 years. Although subjective assessment of the result was good in all cases, 52.8% had some limitation of rotational movements. The factors which limited rotation were angulatory deformity of the bones, rotational malalignment or injury to the inferior radioulnar joint. An angulatory deformity of more than 10 degrees in a child above the age of 10 years failed to remodel adequately with growth particularly if the fracture was in the proximal half of the forearm. Rotational malalignment also did not correct with growth.", "contents": "A study of radioulnar movements following fractures of the forearm in children. The range of radioulnar movements, following fractures of the forearm bones treated conservatively in 53 children under the age of 15 years, was measured by a goniometer. The most common age group was 6-10 years. All fractures united within 8 weeks and the average follow-up was 3 years. Although subjective assessment of the result was good in all cases, 52.8% had some limitation of rotational movements. The factors which limited rotation were angulatory deformity of the bones, rotational malalignment or injury to the inferior radioulnar joint. An angulatory deformity of more than 10 degrees in a child above the age of 10 years failed to remodel adequately with growth particularly if the fracture was in the proximal half of the forearm. Rotational malalignment also did not correct with growth.", "PMID": 455827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11850", "title": "Traumatic bowing of the forearm: a case report.", "content": "In a 16-year-old girl, the forearm was caught between rollers in a textile factory. The tangential force caused massive swelling and one week later bowing of the forearm was noticed. One month and 3 months later the bowing was unchanged, and caused 30 degrees limitation of pronation while supination was normal. Bowing of the forearm bones in children following trauma, interperted as a plastic deformation of bone, is only recently recognized as a clinical and roentgenological entity.", "contents": "Traumatic bowing of the forearm: a case report. In a 16-year-old girl, the forearm was caught between rollers in a textile factory. The tangential force caused massive swelling and one week later bowing of the forearm was noticed. One month and 3 months later the bowing was unchanged, and caused 30 degrees limitation of pronation while supination was normal. Bowing of the forearm bones in children following trauma, interperted as a plastic deformation of bone, is only recently recognized as a clinical and roentgenological entity.", "PMID": 455828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11851", "title": "Congenital vertical talus and its familial occurrence: an analysis of 36 patients.", "content": "Thirty-six patients (57 feet) showing congenital vertical talus were treated at the St. Louis Unit of the Shriners Hospital between 1958 and 1978. A high incidence of congenital hip dislocatiom, arthrogryposis, congenital hypoplasia of tibia and CNA disorders was noted as associated abnormalities. These patients are classified in 3 groups: (I) primary isolated form (16 patients); (II) associated form without neurological deficit (12 patients); (III) associated form with neurological deficit (8 patients). Fifty per cent of the patients with primary isolated form had positive family history of foot deformities in their first degree relatives. Familial incidence of congenital vertical talus was observed in 2 families studied. Genetic factors may play an important role in the etiology of the primary isolated form of congenital vertical talus. The current treatment is a one-stage open reduction of the talonavicular dislocation, combined with a posterior release. A subtalar bone block is often imperative to maintain correction. Cast correction alone has never succeeded as the definitive treatment of this condition.", "contents": "Congenital vertical talus and its familial occurrence: an analysis of 36 patients. Thirty-six patients (57 feet) showing congenital vertical talus were treated at the St. Louis Unit of the Shriners Hospital between 1958 and 1978. A high incidence of congenital hip dislocatiom, arthrogryposis, congenital hypoplasia of tibia and CNA disorders was noted as associated abnormalities. These patients are classified in 3 groups: (I) primary isolated form (16 patients); (II) associated form without neurological deficit (12 patients); (III) associated form with neurological deficit (8 patients). Fifty per cent of the patients with primary isolated form had positive family history of foot deformities in their first degree relatives. Familial incidence of congenital vertical talus was observed in 2 families studied. Genetic factors may play an important role in the etiology of the primary isolated form of congenital vertical talus. The current treatment is a one-stage open reduction of the talonavicular dislocation, combined with a posterior release. A subtalar bone block is often imperative to maintain correction. Cast correction alone has never succeeded as the definitive treatment of this condition.", "PMID": 455829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11852", "title": "Adjuvant arterial embolization in the treatment of benign primary bone tumors in children.", "content": "This report presents an initial clinical experience with arterial embolization as adjuvent therapy in the surgical treatment of selected benign primary bone tumors in childhood. Embolization was dramatically effective in 4 children with spinal or pelvic vascular tumors. This technique facilitated local surgical resection and/or curettage. No child had evidence of local recurrence. Three of the 4 children had spinal cord or nerve root compression resulting in various degrees of paralysis prior to surgery. All treated patients had complete recovery from their paralysis. There were no complications of embolization or surgery. The treatment of benign primary bone tumors of the spine and pelvis is immeasurably improved by the adjuvant arterial embolization procedure. The immediate surgical treatment of these difficult tumors now becomes feasible with the greatly diminished blood flow resulting from embolization.", "contents": "Adjuvant arterial embolization in the treatment of benign primary bone tumors in children. This report presents an initial clinical experience with arterial embolization as adjuvent therapy in the surgical treatment of selected benign primary bone tumors in childhood. Embolization was dramatically effective in 4 children with spinal or pelvic vascular tumors. This technique facilitated local surgical resection and/or curettage. No child had evidence of local recurrence. Three of the 4 children had spinal cord or nerve root compression resulting in various degrees of paralysis prior to surgery. All treated patients had complete recovery from their paralysis. There were no complications of embolization or surgery. The treatment of benign primary bone tumors of the spine and pelvis is immeasurably improved by the adjuvant arterial embolization procedure. The immediate surgical treatment of these difficult tumors now becomes feasible with the greatly diminished blood flow resulting from embolization.", "PMID": 455830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11853", "title": "Routes of infection. A study of using \"tracer particles\" in the orthopedic operating room.", "content": "Wound irrigates and tissue samples were cultured from clean orthopedic wounds at the conclusion of 280 orthopedic operations. The surgeons used a laminar flow unit and took extra precautions against wound contamination although personnel exhaust systems were not used. It was possible to culture residual organisms but difficult to trace the source of these by bacteriological methods. Artificial or \"tracer\" particles which could be applied to patient or surgeon were retrieved from the wound and suitably stained. Using albumin microspheres it was possible to identify and differentiate \"patient-derived particles\" from \"surgeon-derived particles\" in the majority of all wounds. Contamination from the surgeon was significant even under near optimum operating room conditions. These techniques are useful for development of control measures for residual wound contamination in orthopedic operating rooms.", "contents": "Routes of infection. A study of using \"tracer particles\" in the orthopedic operating room. Wound irrigates and tissue samples were cultured from clean orthopedic wounds at the conclusion of 280 orthopedic operations. The surgeons used a laminar flow unit and took extra precautions against wound contamination although personnel exhaust systems were not used. It was possible to culture residual organisms but difficult to trace the source of these by bacteriological methods. Artificial or \"tracer\" particles which could be applied to patient or surgeon were retrieved from the wound and suitably stained. Using albumin microspheres it was possible to identify and differentiate \"patient-derived particles\" from \"surgeon-derived particles\" in the majority of all wounds. Contamination from the surgeon was significant even under near optimum operating room conditions. These techniques are useful for development of control measures for residual wound contamination in orthopedic operating rooms.", "PMID": 455832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11854", "title": "Computerized tomography in orthopedic surgery.", "content": "Computerized tomography has been demonstrated to be highly effective and accurate in delineating soft tissue and bony cross-sectional anatomy. The technique is very helpful in: (A) delineating the 3-dimensional extents of destructive lesions; (B) defining the nature of lesions by revealing their tissue densities and invasive characteristics; and (C) delineating the cross-sectional anatomy of complex geometric lesions; for example, fractures of the pelvis and spine. These features enable the orthopedic surgeon to better diagnose pathological lesions, plan surgical procedures, screen patients for metastases, and facilitate percutaneous biopsy or aspiration of difficult anatomic sites. While these applications are becoming well established, additional uses are under investigation in the areas of trauma, and in clinical research of metabolic bone disease.", "contents": "Computerized tomography in orthopedic surgery. Computerized tomography has been demonstrated to be highly effective and accurate in delineating soft tissue and bony cross-sectional anatomy. The technique is very helpful in: (A) delineating the 3-dimensional extents of destructive lesions; (B) defining the nature of lesions by revealing their tissue densities and invasive characteristics; and (C) delineating the cross-sectional anatomy of complex geometric lesions; for example, fractures of the pelvis and spine. These features enable the orthopedic surgeon to better diagnose pathological lesions, plan surgical procedures, screen patients for metastases, and facilitate percutaneous biopsy or aspiration of difficult anatomic sites. While these applications are becoming well established, additional uses are under investigation in the areas of trauma, and in clinical research of metabolic bone disease.", "PMID": 455831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11855", "title": "Osteoporosis of the spine, pelvis and hand. A comparative study in a femoral neck fracture series.", "content": "In a comparative study of the degree and prevalence of osteoporosis in the hand, pelvis and spine of a group of femoral neck fractures in the elderly, it was noted that spinal osteoporosis was much more frequent and appeared much earlier than pelvic osteoporosis. Similarly, a one way correlation existed between osteoporosis of the hand and spine. No relationship was noted between osteoporosis of the pelvis as measured by our criteria and by the Singh technique.", "contents": "Osteoporosis of the spine, pelvis and hand. A comparative study in a femoral neck fracture series. In a comparative study of the degree and prevalence of osteoporosis in the hand, pelvis and spine of a group of femoral neck fractures in the elderly, it was noted that spinal osteoporosis was much more frequent and appeared much earlier than pelvic osteoporosis. Similarly, a one way correlation existed between osteoporosis of the hand and spine. No relationship was noted between osteoporosis of the pelvis as measured by our criteria and by the Singh technique.", "PMID": 455833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11856", "title": "Irreducible acute anterior dislocation of the shoulder: case report.", "content": "A 91-year-old woman presented with an acute anterior dislocation of the shoulder which could not be reduced by closed manipulation. Open reduction demonstrated a fresh dislocation which could not be reduced until the subscapularis muscle was divided. Only 2 previous cases of irreducible anterior dislocation of the shoulder seem to have been reported in the recent or readily available literature.", "contents": "Irreducible acute anterior dislocation of the shoulder: case report. A 91-year-old woman presented with an acute anterior dislocation of the shoulder which could not be reduced by closed manipulation. Open reduction demonstrated a fresh dislocation which could not be reduced until the subscapularis muscle was divided. Only 2 previous cases of irreducible anterior dislocation of the shoulder seem to have been reported in the recent or readily available literature.", "PMID": 455835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11857", "title": "Arthrodesis of the shoulder: posterior approach.", "content": "Shoulder arthrodesis through the posterior approach in 6 patients with the average follow-up of 20 months has been described. There were no surgical complications. In all cases the position of the arm was determined clinically and placed in 20 degrees abduction, 30 degrees forward flexion, and 40 degrees internal rotation.", "contents": "Arthrodesis of the shoulder: posterior approach. Shoulder arthrodesis through the posterior approach in 6 patients with the average follow-up of 20 months has been described. There were no surgical complications. In all cases the position of the arm was determined clinically and placed in 20 degrees abduction, 30 degrees forward flexion, and 40 degrees internal rotation.", "PMID": 455836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11858", "title": "In vivo effects of axial loading on healthy, adolescent spines.", "content": "Five healthy adolescents were studied using a three-dimensional radiographic technique to analyze the in vivo effects of standing, supine and supine Cotrel traction positioning on the orientation of spinal segments. In general the configuration of these spines was found to be relatively unaffected by changes in subject position and column loading. The major effects of supine positioning appeared to be lessening of standing lumbar lordosis while supine traction tended to diminish this effect. Measurement of rotation relative to a common reference body, L4, was influenced by the degree of AP and ML wedging throughout the column. The standing curve was found to be slightly rotated by a small but constant amount at each level and tended to derotate as a whole with supine and supine traction positioning. Measurement of successive intervertebral rotation showed effects independent of wedging with each vertebral body randomly rotated and unaffected by subject orientation. With the exception of central vertebral disk heights, all parameters measured possessed relatively wide limits of variability which appeared to be the result of true intersubject scatter as opposed to measurement error.", "contents": "In vivo effects of axial loading on healthy, adolescent spines. Five healthy adolescents were studied using a three-dimensional radiographic technique to analyze the in vivo effects of standing, supine and supine Cotrel traction positioning on the orientation of spinal segments. In general the configuration of these spines was found to be relatively unaffected by changes in subject position and column loading. The major effects of supine positioning appeared to be lessening of standing lumbar lordosis while supine traction tended to diminish this effect. Measurement of rotation relative to a common reference body, L4, was influenced by the degree of AP and ML wedging throughout the column. The standing curve was found to be slightly rotated by a small but constant amount at each level and tended to derotate as a whole with supine and supine traction positioning. Measurement of successive intervertebral rotation showed effects independent of wedging with each vertebral body randomly rotated and unaffected by subject orientation. With the exception of central vertebral disk heights, all parameters measured possessed relatively wide limits of variability which appeared to be the result of true intersubject scatter as opposed to measurement error.", "PMID": 455837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11859", "title": "Spondylolisthesis resulting from osteogenesis imperfecta: report of a case.", "content": "Spondylolisthesis resulting from osteogenesis imperfecta has been very rarely documented in the literature. The possibility that osteofragility of the isthmus of the fifth lumbar vertabral can cause spondylolisthesis is noteworthy in the case of a 40-year-old man with trias fragilitas ossium hereditaria.", "contents": "Spondylolisthesis resulting from osteogenesis imperfecta: report of a case. Spondylolisthesis resulting from osteogenesis imperfecta has been very rarely documented in the literature. The possibility that osteofragility of the isthmus of the fifth lumbar vertabral can cause spondylolisthesis is noteworthy in the case of a 40-year-old man with trias fragilitas ossium hereditaria.", "PMID": 455834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11860", "title": "Use of the infrapatella strap in the treatment of patellofemoral pain.", "content": "The spectrum of patellofemoral disorders ranging from chondromalacia of the patella to degenerative arthritis is a difficult, often vexing problem. Many methods of treatment, both surgical and nonsurgical, have been used without uniform or predictable success. The infrapatella strap, a new concept in nonsurgical management of patellofemoral pain, can be effective in 77% of patients. Its simplicity and comfort, patients' acceptance, and the apparent lack of contraindications when it is worn as instructed justify further clinical trials.", "contents": "Use of the infrapatella strap in the treatment of patellofemoral pain. The spectrum of patellofemoral disorders ranging from chondromalacia of the patella to degenerative arthritis is a difficult, often vexing problem. Many methods of treatment, both surgical and nonsurgical, have been used without uniform or predictable success. The infrapatella strap, a new concept in nonsurgical management of patellofemoral pain, can be effective in 77% of patients. Its simplicity and comfort, patients' acceptance, and the apparent lack of contraindications when it is worn as instructed justify further clinical trials.", "PMID": 455839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11861", "title": "Serotonin metabolism and its enzymic activities in joint diseases.", "content": "In order to clearly understand the synovial metabolic pathway of 5-HT, which is interesting as an inflammatory mediator and a pain producing substance, in patients with RA and with OA, determinations were made of 5-HIAA levels and of the activities of MAO-A and MAO-B, in the synovial fluid and the blood. With respect to 5-HIAA levels, there was no significant difference in the synovial levels between patients with RA and those with OA, although higher values were obtained in the plasma of patients with RA. A correlation was found between synovial and plasma levels in both diseases. In patients with RA, 5-HIAA levels tended to increase in both levels of the synovial fluid and the plasma in higher stages. The activities of MAO-A and MAO-B in the synovial fluid were found to be lower in patients with RA than in those with OA. The MAO-B activity in the synovial fluid increased in higher stages and correlated with ESR in patients with RA. In patients with RA the efflux of 5-HIAA from the synovial fluid was reduced. No remarkable changes occurred in the permeability of 5-HIAA. The ability to inactivate 5-HT was lower than in OA. The determination of synovial MAO-B activity is useful in diagnosing the status of the patient with respect to rheumatoid arthritis.", "contents": "Serotonin metabolism and its enzymic activities in joint diseases. In order to clearly understand the synovial metabolic pathway of 5-HT, which is interesting as an inflammatory mediator and a pain producing substance, in patients with RA and with OA, determinations were made of 5-HIAA levels and of the activities of MAO-A and MAO-B, in the synovial fluid and the blood. With respect to 5-HIAA levels, there was no significant difference in the synovial levels between patients with RA and those with OA, although higher values were obtained in the plasma of patients with RA. A correlation was found between synovial and plasma levels in both diseases. In patients with RA, 5-HIAA levels tended to increase in both levels of the synovial fluid and the plasma in higher stages. The activities of MAO-A and MAO-B in the synovial fluid were found to be lower in patients with RA than in those with OA. The MAO-B activity in the synovial fluid increased in higher stages and correlated with ESR in patients with RA. In patients with RA the efflux of 5-HIAA from the synovial fluid was reduced. No remarkable changes occurred in the permeability of 5-HIAA. The ability to inactivate 5-HT was lower than in OA. The determination of synovial MAO-B activity is useful in diagnosing the status of the patient with respect to rheumatoid arthritis.", "PMID": 455840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11862", "title": "Electron microscopic study of the effects of calcitonin on bone cells and their extracellular milieu.", "content": "This is a scanning and transmission electron microscopic study of the changes produced by small doses of calcitonin (0.15 mU/g body weight) in the lining cells and their microenvironment at the endosteal surfaces of the tibia of neonate rats. The techniques used included \"freeze substitution\" preparation, staining with lead acetate, and with lanthanum added to the fixative. Rats were sacrificed 5, 15, and 30 minutes after subcutaneous injection of salmon calcitonin. The following observations were made; within 5 minutes following calcitonin injection, the response of the endosteal lining cells included increased numbers of microvilli and surface blebs. Cell contraction was apparent, including an irregular appearance of the plasma membrane and enlarged intercellular channel size, though cell-to-cell contact still occurred. By 15 minutes, following hormone injection, the cells were returning to normal morphology and were in close contact with each other. Calcitonin caused a marked accumulation of lanthanum around osteocytes and in bone fluid adjacent to lining cells. The lanthanum was found in large aggregates and appeared to \"clump.\" Following \"freeze substiuttion\" preparation, the edge of the osteoid was bordered by what appeared to be mineral aggregates. We conclude that bone lining cells and osteocytes respond rapidly to low doses of calcitonin, thereby suggesting that they play a role in the physiological action of the hormone. This function includes a modification of the fluid microenvironment of these cells, possibly providing a site for temporary storage of calcium.", "contents": "Electron microscopic study of the effects of calcitonin on bone cells and their extracellular milieu. This is a scanning and transmission electron microscopic study of the changes produced by small doses of calcitonin (0.15 mU/g body weight) in the lining cells and their microenvironment at the endosteal surfaces of the tibia of neonate rats. The techniques used included \"freeze substitution\" preparation, staining with lead acetate, and with lanthanum added to the fixative. Rats were sacrificed 5, 15, and 30 minutes after subcutaneous injection of salmon calcitonin. The following observations were made; within 5 minutes following calcitonin injection, the response of the endosteal lining cells included increased numbers of microvilli and surface blebs. Cell contraction was apparent, including an irregular appearance of the plasma membrane and enlarged intercellular channel size, though cell-to-cell contact still occurred. By 15 minutes, following hormone injection, the cells were returning to normal morphology and were in close contact with each other. Calcitonin caused a marked accumulation of lanthanum around osteocytes and in bone fluid adjacent to lining cells. The lanthanum was found in large aggregates and appeared to \"clump.\" Following \"freeze substiuttion\" preparation, the edge of the osteoid was bordered by what appeared to be mineral aggregates. We conclude that bone lining cells and osteocytes respond rapidly to low doses of calcitonin, thereby suggesting that they play a role in the physiological action of the hormone. This function includes a modification of the fluid microenvironment of these cells, possibly providing a site for temporary storage of calcium.", "PMID": 455841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11863", "title": "Medial epicondylectomy for ulnar nerve compression syndrome at the elbow.", "content": "Nineteen patients were evaluated 6--17 months after medial epicondylectomy (22 extremities) for ulnar nerve compression syndrome at the elbow. Medial epicondylectomy removes the prominence against which the ulnar nerve can be traumatically compressed and no operative handling of the nerve is necessary. Pre- and postoperative nerve conduction velocities were combined with subjective and objective evaluations of all patients. Statically significant correlations were found between the result and the postoperative nerve conduction velocity and the result and the per cent change of nerve conduction velocity. Ten extremities were classified as good results (48%), 4 as fair results (17%), and 8 as poor results (35%). Four limbs in the poor category and one limb in the fair category had electrical evidence of proximal compression neuropathy which compromised the end result. Exclusion of the patients with evidence of proximal neuropathy would yield 76% good or fair results. Measurement of ulnar nerve lengths in fresh cadavers demonstrated that ulnar nerve conduction velocity studies should be performed at 70 degrees of elbow flexion if accurate pre- and postoperative velocities are to be obtained.", "contents": "Medial epicondylectomy for ulnar nerve compression syndrome at the elbow. Nineteen patients were evaluated 6--17 months after medial epicondylectomy (22 extremities) for ulnar nerve compression syndrome at the elbow. Medial epicondylectomy removes the prominence against which the ulnar nerve can be traumatically compressed and no operative handling of the nerve is necessary. Pre- and postoperative nerve conduction velocities were combined with subjective and objective evaluations of all patients. Statically significant correlations were found between the result and the postoperative nerve conduction velocity and the result and the per cent change of nerve conduction velocity. Ten extremities were classified as good results (48%), 4 as fair results (17%), and 8 as poor results (35%). Four limbs in the poor category and one limb in the fair category had electrical evidence of proximal compression neuropathy which compromised the end result. Exclusion of the patients with evidence of proximal neuropathy would yield 76% good or fair results. Measurement of ulnar nerve lengths in fresh cadavers demonstrated that ulnar nerve conduction velocity studies should be performed at 70 degrees of elbow flexion if accurate pre- and postoperative velocities are to be obtained.", "PMID": 455838} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11864", "title": "Banded structures in human nucleus pulposus.", "content": "We studied 20 intervertebral disks from cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels from patients 12 hours to 55-years-old by electronmicroscopy. Tissue was obtained at operation from 10 patients with scoliosis and 6 with herniation of the intervertebral disk. Four intervertebral disks were removed at autopsies performed within 4 hours of death. Banded structures distinct from native collagen were present in the nuclei pulposi of all intervertebral disks but not in the annuli fibrosi. These structures may be an unusual form of collagen, however they closely resemble extracellular banded structures found in frog muscle spindle that may form from find filaments when the muscle spindle increases in length.", "contents": "Banded structures in human nucleus pulposus. We studied 20 intervertebral disks from cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels from patients 12 hours to 55-years-old by electronmicroscopy. Tissue was obtained at operation from 10 patients with scoliosis and 6 with herniation of the intervertebral disk. Four intervertebral disks were removed at autopsies performed within 4 hours of death. Banded structures distinct from native collagen were present in the nuclei pulposi of all intervertebral disks but not in the annuli fibrosi. These structures may be an unusual form of collagen, however they closely resemble extracellular banded structures found in frog muscle spindle that may form from find filaments when the muscle spindle increases in length.", "PMID": 455842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11865", "title": "The collagenous architecture of articular cartilage. Correlation of scanning electron microscopy and polarized light microscopy observations.", "content": "The localization and directional orientation of collagen fibers in articular cartilage is demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and polarized light microscopy. Vertical sections of articular cartilage show different directional orientations of collagen fibers through all zones of cartilage depending upon whether the sections are parallel or perpendicular to the cleft pattern produced when the surface of articular cartilage is pierced with a round pointed awl. Sections parallel to the cleft axis show a significant population of oblique collagen fibers which are not seen in sections perpendicular to the clefts. These oblique fiber groups show a progression from nearly radial to nearly tangential orientation from deep to more superficial zones, with the most abrupt directional change seen through the transitional zone. Within the transitional zone there is a narrow band having no vertical or horizontal collagen fibers and in which collagen fibers intersect predominantly at angles ranging between 45 and 135 degrees. The number of chondrocyte lacunae per unit area is greater in sections parallel to the cleft axis compared to perpendicular sections by a factor of approximately 1.6:1. There is therefore a greater relative number of chondrocytes in the plane of section having the greatest abundance of oblique collagen fibers, suggesting a cellular basis for the collagenous architecture observed. The results are consistent with published biophysical data relating tensile and swelling properties of all zones of articular cartilage to the cleft axis.", "contents": "The collagenous architecture of articular cartilage. Correlation of scanning electron microscopy and polarized light microscopy observations. The localization and directional orientation of collagen fibers in articular cartilage is demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and polarized light microscopy. Vertical sections of articular cartilage show different directional orientations of collagen fibers through all zones of cartilage depending upon whether the sections are parallel or perpendicular to the cleft pattern produced when the surface of articular cartilage is pierced with a round pointed awl. Sections parallel to the cleft axis show a significant population of oblique collagen fibers which are not seen in sections perpendicular to the clefts. These oblique fiber groups show a progression from nearly radial to nearly tangential orientation from deep to more superficial zones, with the most abrupt directional change seen through the transitional zone. Within the transitional zone there is a narrow band having no vertical or horizontal collagen fibers and in which collagen fibers intersect predominantly at angles ranging between 45 and 135 degrees. The number of chondrocyte lacunae per unit area is greater in sections parallel to the cleft axis compared to perpendicular sections by a factor of approximately 1.6:1. There is therefore a greater relative number of chondrocytes in the plane of section having the greatest abundance of oblique collagen fibers, suggesting a cellular basis for the collagenous architecture observed. The results are consistent with published biophysical data relating tensile and swelling properties of all zones of articular cartilage to the cleft axis.", "PMID": 455843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11866", "title": "The safety of cement fixation in the cervical spine. Studies of a rabbit model.", "content": "Immediate postoperative ambulation of patients with terminal neoplastic disease of the cervical spine can be permitted by vertebral stabilization with wire reinforced with polymethylmethacrylate. Precautions are necessary to avoid a temperature rise during cement polymerization and prevent vasular or nerve damage. Experiments on 20 rabbits and 2 human cadavers indicate that temperature at the cement-lamina interface can rise as high as 90 degrees while temperature under the intact lamina measures only 50 degrees. Precooling and insulation with Gelfoam may prevent heat injury to spinal cord.", "contents": "The safety of cement fixation in the cervical spine. Studies of a rabbit model. Immediate postoperative ambulation of patients with terminal neoplastic disease of the cervical spine can be permitted by vertebral stabilization with wire reinforced with polymethylmethacrylate. Precautions are necessary to avoid a temperature rise during cement polymerization and prevent vasular or nerve damage. Experiments on 20 rabbits and 2 human cadavers indicate that temperature at the cement-lamina interface can rise as high as 90 degrees while temperature under the intact lamina measures only 50 degrees. Precooling and insulation with Gelfoam may prevent heat injury to spinal cord.", "PMID": 455844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11867", "title": "Muscle forces in the posterior thoracic spine.", "content": "Using a three-dimensional model, the theoretical maximal forces that can be generated by electrical stimulation of several posterior thoracic muscles have been analyzed to investigate the kinesiology of scoliosis. None provides a pure lateral bending moment, and most exaggerate lordosis. None satisfactorily generates a rotary force for correction of scoliotic deformity. Although maximum muscle contraction can ideally produce lateral bending moments of the same magnitude as the Milwaukee brace, current techniques do not cause continuous, complete muscle contraction. The best muscle studied for electrospinal intrumentation is the lateral erector spinae. Multiple sites of stimulating electrodes are probably necessary. None of the individual muscles studied is ideal. Further investigation should be directed to the stimulation of anterior thoracic muscles.", "contents": "Muscle forces in the posterior thoracic spine. Using a three-dimensional model, the theoretical maximal forces that can be generated by electrical stimulation of several posterior thoracic muscles have been analyzed to investigate the kinesiology of scoliosis. None provides a pure lateral bending moment, and most exaggerate lordosis. None satisfactorily generates a rotary force for correction of scoliotic deformity. Although maximum muscle contraction can ideally produce lateral bending moments of the same magnitude as the Milwaukee brace, current techniques do not cause continuous, complete muscle contraction. The best muscle studied for electrospinal intrumentation is the lateral erector spinae. Multiple sites of stimulating electrodes are probably necessary. None of the individual muscles studied is ideal. Further investigation should be directed to the stimulation of anterior thoracic muscles.", "PMID": 455845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11868", "title": "Sacral agenesis: a clinical evaluation of its management, heredity, and associated anomalies.", "content": "In the child born with sacral agenesis, the management of arthrogrypotic-like deformities, spinal and multisystem abnormalities poses several problems to the orthopedist. A clinical evaluation was undertaken on 17 patients and available parents in an effort to define better the heredity and proper management of this disorder. Flexion contractures of the hips and knees adversely affect ambulation potential and are rather resistant to standard treatment. The presence of protective sensation and proprioception, though, warrants aggressive attempts at correction, Subtrochanteric amputations are not necessary to achieve a functional ambulator. Spinal-pelvic instability does not preclude functional ambulation. In fact, there may be some benefit in maintaining motion in this region. Abolishment of spinal-pelvic motion by surgical fusion in the presence of hip contractures could impair sitting ability and the ability to walk upright. Congenital vertebral anomalies in the remainder of the spine, including the neck, occurred in 12 patients. Four patients had idiopathic-like curves. Only one patient had a normal spin above the level of agenesis. From an analysis of families, there was no obvious genetic association. Finally, the high frequency of multisystem associated congential abnormalities will necessitate a team approach to these patients.", "contents": "Sacral agenesis: a clinical evaluation of its management, heredity, and associated anomalies. In the child born with sacral agenesis, the management of arthrogrypotic-like deformities, spinal and multisystem abnormalities poses several problems to the orthopedist. A clinical evaluation was undertaken on 17 patients and available parents in an effort to define better the heredity and proper management of this disorder. Flexion contractures of the hips and knees adversely affect ambulation potential and are rather resistant to standard treatment. The presence of protective sensation and proprioception, though, warrants aggressive attempts at correction, Subtrochanteric amputations are not necessary to achieve a functional ambulator. Spinal-pelvic instability does not preclude functional ambulation. In fact, there may be some benefit in maintaining motion in this region. Abolishment of spinal-pelvic motion by surgical fusion in the presence of hip contractures could impair sitting ability and the ability to walk upright. Congenital vertebral anomalies in the remainder of the spine, including the neck, occurred in 12 patients. Four patients had idiopathic-like curves. Only one patient had a normal spin above the level of agenesis. From an analysis of families, there was no obvious genetic association. Finally, the high frequency of multisystem associated congential abnormalities will necessitate a team approach to these patients.", "PMID": 455850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11869", "title": "Operative treatment of spine deformity in osteogenesis imperfecta.", "content": "There has been little mention in the literature of scoliosis associated with osteogenesis imperfecta. The purpose of this study was to investigate the problem of spine deformity in a series of osteogenesis imperfecta patients and to review the operative treatment of 8 patients. A series of 49 patients (ranging in age from 8 months to 57 years, average 12 years) with osteogenesis imperfecta were studied. Thirty-five (71%) of these patients had scoliosis ranging from 7 degrees to 105 degrees (average 42 degrees). The more severely involved patients (OIC and OITI groups) demenostrated a higher incidence (80%) of scoliosis and a greater average degree of curvature (42 degrees) as compared to the mildly involved (OITII) group with a 50% incidence of scoliosis with an average curvature of 26 degrees. Attempts to control these curves by bracing have been difficult and usually had to be abandoned. Eight of these patients underwent spine stabilization in an attempt to control curve progression. All 8 patients had posterior spine fusions. One of these patients had an anterior fusion preceding the posterior fusion because of a significant kyphotic deformity. Harrington instrumentation was used in 5 patients. One patient could not be instrumented secondary to severe osteoporosis while the remaining 2 patients were treated by the Risser technique. Postoperatively, either cast or brace protection was used. Only minimal improvement in the curves was achieved. Spine stabilization rather than curve correction is the goal of spine fusion in osteogenesis imperfecta. An important finding was that there was no change in the pre- and postoperative activity and ambulatory status in these patients. Preliminary follow-up (9-12 months) in all 8", "contents": "Operative treatment of spine deformity in osteogenesis imperfecta. There has been little mention in the literature of scoliosis associated with osteogenesis imperfecta. The purpose of this study was to investigate the problem of spine deformity in a series of osteogenesis imperfecta patients and to review the operative treatment of 8 patients. A series of 49 patients (ranging in age from 8 months to 57 years, average 12 years) with osteogenesis imperfecta were studied. Thirty-five (71%) of these patients had scoliosis ranging from 7 degrees to 105 degrees (average 42 degrees). The more severely involved patients (OIC and OITI groups) demenostrated a higher incidence (80%) of scoliosis and a greater average degree of curvature (42 degrees) as compared to the mildly involved (OITII) group with a 50% incidence of scoliosis with an average curvature of 26 degrees. Attempts to control these curves by bracing have been difficult and usually had to be abandoned. Eight of these patients underwent spine stabilization in an attempt to control curve progression. All 8 patients had posterior spine fusions. One of these patients had an anterior fusion preceding the posterior fusion because of a significant kyphotic deformity. Harrington instrumentation was used in 5 patients. One patient could not be instrumented secondary to severe osteoporosis while the remaining 2 patients were treated by the Risser technique. Postoperatively, either cast or brace protection was used. Only minimal improvement in the curves was achieved. Spine stabilization rather than curve correction is the goal of spine fusion in osteogenesis imperfecta. An important finding was that there was no change in the pre- and postoperative activity and ambulatory status in these patients. Preliminary follow-up (9-12 months) in all 8", "PMID": 455848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11870", "title": "The thoracic suspension orthosis.", "content": "Five year's experience with the thoracic suspension orthosis at Newington Children's Hospital has shown it to be an effective and very useful adjunct in the management of neuromuscular spinal deformity. The orthosis converts the thorax into a weight-bearing structure, thereby reducing the vertical load on the spine and allowing the abdomen and pelvis to act as a corrective distraction force. Fifty-nine of the 64 patients reported here have successfully used the orthosis to control spinal deformity and improve their functional status. Analysis of these 59 patients and the 5 treatment failures has resulted in identification of the specific indications, prerequisites, techniques, precautions, and contraindications necessary for the achievement of stated treatment objectives, often with dramatic success.", "contents": "The thoracic suspension orthosis. Five year's experience with the thoracic suspension orthosis at Newington Children's Hospital has shown it to be an effective and very useful adjunct in the management of neuromuscular spinal deformity. The orthosis converts the thorax into a weight-bearing structure, thereby reducing the vertical load on the spine and allowing the abdomen and pelvis to act as a corrective distraction force. Fifty-nine of the 64 patients reported here have successfully used the orthosis to control spinal deformity and improve their functional status. Analysis of these 59 patients and the 5 treatment failures has resulted in identification of the specific indications, prerequisites, techniques, precautions, and contraindications necessary for the achievement of stated treatment objectives, often with dramatic success.", "PMID": 455847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11871", "title": "The orthopedic aspects of the fetal alcohol syndrome.", "content": "Eight cases of the fetal alcohol syndrome are presented with emphasis on their frequent orthopedic anomalies, i.e. hypoplastic toenails (100%), shortened fingers, usually the fifth (75%), radioulnar synostosis, camptodactyly of fingers, clinodactyly of toes, and flexion contractures of the elbow (all 50%). These are in addition to 7 other orthopedic anomalies observed less frequently and some 18 general characteristics had an extensive endocrine, biochemical and genetic work-up and no abnormalities were found to explain the snydrome other than the teratogenicity of the maternal alcohol abuse. Since the orthopedist may be the first physician to see these patients, diagnosis of these musculoskeletal anomalies should include a social history and investigation for fetal alcohol syndrome.", "contents": "The orthopedic aspects of the fetal alcohol syndrome. Eight cases of the fetal alcohol syndrome are presented with emphasis on their frequent orthopedic anomalies, i.e. hypoplastic toenails (100%), shortened fingers, usually the fifth (75%), radioulnar synostosis, camptodactyly of fingers, clinodactyly of toes, and flexion contractures of the elbow (all 50%). These are in addition to 7 other orthopedic anomalies observed less frequently and some 18 general characteristics had an extensive endocrine, biochemical and genetic work-up and no abnormalities were found to explain the snydrome other than the teratogenicity of the maternal alcohol abuse. Since the orthopedist may be the first physician to see these patients, diagnosis of these musculoskeletal anomalies should include a social history and investigation for fetal alcohol syndrome.", "PMID": 455851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11872", "title": "Diagnosis of ruptured bladder during a 99mTc-DTPA renal study: new indications for radionuclide cystography?", "content": "Radionuclide cystography, which is currently used to evaluate vesicoureteral reflux, has also been used to detect perirenal and perivesical urine leakage. We report a case of intraperitoneal bladder rupture and describe potential indications and advantages of cystography for detection and evaluation.", "contents": "Diagnosis of ruptured bladder during a 99mTc-DTPA renal study: new indications for radionuclide cystography? Radionuclide cystography, which is currently used to evaluate vesicoureteral reflux, has also been used to detect perirenal and perivesical urine leakage. We report a case of intraperitoneal bladder rupture and describe potential indications and advantages of cystography for detection and evaluation.", "PMID": 455858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11873", "title": "Severe complication of surgical treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle.", "content": "Congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle, as observed in a review of the literature, is a rare condition of uncertain etiology which usually presents on the right side. Four of 10 cases were treated by surgical repair of the pseudarthrosis with excision of the non-union and internal fixation with a Steinmann pin and cancellous bone graft. A major postoperative complication in one case consisted of an acute massive neuropraxia of the brachial plexus (recognized 6 hours postoperatively), and was successfully treated by immediate removal of the internal fixation. Ten months postoperatively, the patient was experiencing only minimal weakness of the right opponens muscle. Roentgenograms at this time showed that the pseudarthrosis had healed but with angulation of the clavicle.", "contents": "Severe complication of surgical treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle. Congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle, as observed in a review of the literature, is a rare condition of uncertain etiology which usually presents on the right side. Four of 10 cases were treated by surgical repair of the pseudarthrosis with excision of the non-union and internal fixation with a Steinmann pin and cancellous bone graft. A major postoperative complication in one case consisted of an acute massive neuropraxia of the brachial plexus (recognized 6 hours postoperatively), and was successfully treated by immediate removal of the internal fixation. Ten months postoperatively, the patient was experiencing only minimal weakness of the right opponens muscle. Roentgenograms at this time showed that the pseudarthrosis had healed but with angulation of the clavicle.", "PMID": 455852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11874", "title": "Decreased splenic perfusion without functional asplenia.", "content": "Although functional asplenia may be associated with decreased splenic perfusion, two cases are presented which illustrate that the converse is not necessarily true. That is, two patients with markedly reduced splenic perfusion still showed splenic extraction of radiocolloid. These cases clearly demonstrate the dissociation of splenic blood flow and the radiocolloid extraction processes. Factors which might have contributed to the decreased perfusion are discussed.", "contents": "Decreased splenic perfusion without functional asplenia. Although functional asplenia may be associated with decreased splenic perfusion, two cases are presented which illustrate that the converse is not necessarily true. That is, two patients with markedly reduced splenic perfusion still showed splenic extraction of radiocolloid. These cases clearly demonstrate the dissociation of splenic blood flow and the radiocolloid extraction processes. Factors which might have contributed to the decreased perfusion are discussed.", "PMID": 455859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11875", "title": "Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes disease: Results of discontinuing treatment in the early reossification phase.", "content": "The major controversy in Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes disease concerns its treatment. All authors recognize the need for containment of the femoral head but do not agree on the method of containment. Surgical containment is constant, does not require an endpoint for discontinuing treatment and has a short treatment period. Conservative treatment, however, produces comparable results, avoids operative and anesthetic complications but requires prolonged immobilization. The concept of Ferguson and Howorth can be validated and indicates that when early subchondral reossification is present on both the anteroposterior and lateral roentgenograms that conservative containment treatment can be safely discontinued thus shortening outpatient time to 12 months or less. The results of 165 hips undergoing conservative treatment and 27 who received surgery are analyzed. Eighty-one conservatively treated hips were mobilized early and followed for an average of 5 years. Their results were identical to those treated until the time of complete restoration of the capital femoral epiphysis. This reduction in outpatient treatment and the decrease in potential complications minimizes several of the major arguments in favor of surgical management.", "contents": "Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes disease: Results of discontinuing treatment in the early reossification phase. The major controversy in Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes disease concerns its treatment. All authors recognize the need for containment of the femoral head but do not agree on the method of containment. Surgical containment is constant, does not require an endpoint for discontinuing treatment and has a short treatment period. Conservative treatment, however, produces comparable results, avoids operative and anesthetic complications but requires prolonged immobilization. The concept of Ferguson and Howorth can be validated and indicates that when early subchondral reossification is present on both the anteroposterior and lateral roentgenograms that conservative containment treatment can be safely discontinued thus shortening outpatient time to 12 months or less. The results of 165 hips undergoing conservative treatment and 27 who received surgery are analyzed. Eighty-one conservatively treated hips were mobilized early and followed for an average of 5 years. Their results were identical to those treated until the time of complete restoration of the capital femoral epiphysis. This reduction in outpatient treatment and the decrease in potential complications minimizes several of the major arguments in favor of surgical management.", "PMID": 455854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11876", "title": "Myositas ossificans progressiva associated with severe scoliosis.", "content": "This is an 11 year follow-up of a patient with myositis ossificans progressiva and severe scoliosis, an association that seems not to have been reported previously. A progressive increase of the curve occurred even after maturity. Early instrumentation and fusion should be considered on any similar case, with excision of ossific mass and its use as bone graft if technically feasible.", "contents": "Myositas ossificans progressiva associated with severe scoliosis. This is an 11 year follow-up of a patient with myositis ossificans progressiva and severe scoliosis, an association that seems not to have been reported previously. A progressive increase of the curve occurred even after maturity. Early instrumentation and fusion should be considered on any similar case, with excision of ossific mass and its use as bone graft if technically feasible.", "PMID": 455849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11877", "title": "S-C joint disruption in an infant.", "content": "An anterosuperior sternoclavicular disruption in a 7 month old female was caused by trauma. Good results were observed by concervative managment.", "contents": "S-C joint disruption in an infant. An anterosuperior sternoclavicular disruption in a 7 month old female was caused by trauma. Good results were observed by concervative managment.", "PMID": 455853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11878", "title": "Localization of 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate in skin lesions of pseudoxanthoma elasticum.", "content": "Increased uptake of 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate (MDP) is demonstrated in a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) at the affected site. PXE is a hereditary disease with variable expression. Calification of dermal elastic fibers is a characteristic feature of affected skin. Recently, apatite crystals were identified in the affected skin of the patients with PXE. The mechanism of uptake of 99mTc-MDP is probably related to chemisorption of the tracer onto hydroxyapatite crystals in the affected dermis.", "contents": "Localization of 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate in skin lesions of pseudoxanthoma elasticum. Increased uptake of 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate (MDP) is demonstrated in a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) at the affected site. PXE is a hereditary disease with variable expression. Calification of dermal elastic fibers is a characteristic feature of affected skin. Recently, apatite crystals were identified in the affected skin of the patients with PXE. The mechanism of uptake of 99mTc-MDP is probably related to chemisorption of the tracer onto hydroxyapatite crystals in the affected dermis.", "PMID": 455861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11879", "title": "Prognosis in septic arthritis of the hip in children.", "content": "Thirty-eight children (39 hips) with septic arthritis have been reviewed in an effort to determine the factors most important to prognosis of the hip joint. The younger patients, 3 or more years later, had poorer results by roentgenographic classification. This was particularly true of patients under one year of age. Longer duration of disease from clinical onset to initiation of therapy also resulted in a poorer result. The outcome could not be clearly correlated with the causative organism or with open as opposed to closed treatment although the policy of management was strongly biased to open drainage. Sixty per cent of the infections were caused by Staphylococcus aureaus and the majority of the other cases by Streptococcus pyogenes and Hemophilus influenzae. The nonstaphylococcal organisms may be less destructive to the femoral head in infants.", "contents": "Prognosis in septic arthritis of the hip in children. Thirty-eight children (39 hips) with septic arthritis have been reviewed in an effort to determine the factors most important to prognosis of the hip joint. The younger patients, 3 or more years later, had poorer results by roentgenographic classification. This was particularly true of patients under one year of age. Longer duration of disease from clinical onset to initiation of therapy also resulted in a poorer result. The outcome could not be clearly correlated with the causative organism or with open as opposed to closed treatment although the policy of management was strongly biased to open drainage. Sixty per cent of the infections were caused by Staphylococcus aureaus and the majority of the other cases by Streptococcus pyogenes and Hemophilus influenzae. The nonstaphylococcal organisms may be less destructive to the femoral head in infants.", "PMID": 455855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11880", "title": "\"Plain film\" diagnosis of ovarian cyst.", "content": "Nuclear images frequently include large areas of the patient which are unrelated to the specific organ system under study. The alert interpreter may discover clinically significant information from these portions of the image. This report describes the diagnosis of an ovarian cyst that was suggested by an absence of activity in the pelvis noted on routine rectillnear bone scan.", "contents": "\"Plain film\" diagnosis of ovarian cyst. Nuclear images frequently include large areas of the patient which are unrelated to the specific organ system under study. The alert interpreter may discover clinically significant information from these portions of the image. This report describes the diagnosis of an ovarian cyst that was suggested by an absence of activity in the pelvis noted on routine rectillnear bone scan.", "PMID": 455862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11881", "title": "Epiphyseal osteochondroma of the anterior cruciate ligament.", "content": "An 8-year-old Black boy complained of pain, swelling, and a decreased range of motion in the knee. One arthrotomy operation was reported to show a normal knee joint. Six months later, a second arthrotomy demonstrated an osteochondroma growing from the epiphysis into the anterior cruciate ligament. Epiphyseal osteochondroma should be added to the working differential diagnosis on children with effusion and decrease of knee motion.", "contents": "Epiphyseal osteochondroma of the anterior cruciate ligament. An 8-year-old Black boy complained of pain, swelling, and a decreased range of motion in the knee. One arthrotomy operation was reported to show a normal knee joint. Six months later, a second arthrotomy demonstrated an osteochondroma growing from the epiphysis into the anterior cruciate ligament. Epiphyseal osteochondroma should be added to the working differential diagnosis on children with effusion and decrease of knee motion.", "PMID": 455856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11882", "title": "Fibular transfer for congenital absence of the tibia.", "content": "In patients with congenital absence of the tibia, construction of a knee joint by transferring the fibula under the femoral condyle gives satisfactory results, provided a strong quadriceps is present. In the rare patient with an associated proximal focal femoral deficiency on the same side, even in the absence of a strong quadriceps, this procedure with a fibulofemoral fusion will give a longer stump, allowing better prosthetic fitting. The procedure is performed as early as the first year of life.", "contents": "Fibular transfer for congenital absence of the tibia. In patients with congenital absence of the tibia, construction of a knee joint by transferring the fibula under the femoral condyle gives satisfactory results, provided a strong quadriceps is present. In the rare patient with an associated proximal focal femoral deficiency on the same side, even in the absence of a strong quadriceps, this procedure with a fibulofemoral fusion will give a longer stump, allowing better prosthetic fitting. The procedure is performed as early as the first year of life.", "PMID": 455857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11883", "title": "Sudden infant death syndrome risk factors. Prospective data review.", "content": "Prospective data from a population of newborn infants were searched for risk factors for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Maternal smoking, younger maternal age, short intervals between pregnancies, gestational age of less than 40 weeks, birth weight of less than 3000 g, lower socioeconomic status and male sex were factors found to be associated with SIDS. Race, blood type, maternal hemoglobin level, placental abnormality and newborn condition were not associated with SIDS in this population. Scoring systems to predict which infants will die of SIDS are not yet sensitive enough for clinical use.", "contents": "Sudden infant death syndrome risk factors. Prospective data review. Prospective data from a population of newborn infants were searched for risk factors for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Maternal smoking, younger maternal age, short intervals between pregnancies, gestational age of less than 40 weeks, birth weight of less than 3000 g, lower socioeconomic status and male sex were factors found to be associated with SIDS. Race, blood type, maternal hemoglobin level, placental abnormality and newborn condition were not associated with SIDS in this population. Scoring systems to predict which infants will die of SIDS are not yet sensitive enough for clinical use.", "PMID": 455873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11884", "title": "Sudden infant death syndrome. Acute loss and grief reactions.", "content": "This paper provides guidelines for health professionals in dealing with the particular grief reactions experienced by families of babies who die of the sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Time and privacy are needed to work through the anguish of grief. However, the SIDS families who cope best are those who are also guided throughout their grieving process by a caring physician who is comfortable in his supportive role. It is hoped that through an increased understanding of acute loss, the medical community will be better able to help SIDS parents and their surviving children regain their psychologic energy.", "contents": "Sudden infant death syndrome. Acute loss and grief reactions. This paper provides guidelines for health professionals in dealing with the particular grief reactions experienced by families of babies who die of the sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Time and privacy are needed to work through the anguish of grief. However, the SIDS families who cope best are those who are also guided throughout their grieving process by a caring physician who is comfortable in his supportive role. It is hoped that through an increased understanding of acute loss, the medical community will be better able to help SIDS parents and their surviving children regain their psychologic energy.", "PMID": 455874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11885", "title": "Sickling crises and altitude. Occurrence in the Colorado patient population.", "content": "Seventy-five black patients with sickle hemoglobinopathies who are followed by the Colorado Sickle Cell Treatment and Research Center, and 172 of their family members were evaluated by retrospective interview for the occurrence of sickling crises when traveling in the Rocky Mountains or by aircraft. Twenty per cent of 39 patients with sickle cell anemia (Hgb SS) (Hgbs S/C and S/T) have developed crises when traveling in the mountains above 2000m. Vaso-occlusive crises predominated in the SS group and splenic crises occurred primarily in those with Hgbs S/C and S/T. Approximately 20 per cent of those with S/C and S/T, but none with SS, had crises when flying in pressurized aircraft. Among 103 family members with sickle cell trait (Hgb AS), no significant risk of developing crises could be identified with either mountain or pressurized aircraft travel.", "contents": "Sickling crises and altitude. Occurrence in the Colorado patient population. Seventy-five black patients with sickle hemoglobinopathies who are followed by the Colorado Sickle Cell Treatment and Research Center, and 172 of their family members were evaluated by retrospective interview for the occurrence of sickling crises when traveling in the Rocky Mountains or by aircraft. Twenty per cent of 39 patients with sickle cell anemia (Hgb SS) (Hgbs S/C and S/T) have developed crises when traveling in the mountains above 2000m. Vaso-occlusive crises predominated in the SS group and splenic crises occurred primarily in those with Hgbs S/C and S/T. Approximately 20 per cent of those with S/C and S/T, but none with SS, had crises when flying in pressurized aircraft. Among 103 family members with sickle cell trait (Hgb AS), no significant risk of developing crises could be identified with either mountain or pressurized aircraft travel.", "PMID": 455876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11886", "title": "A re-evaluation of intersubject variation in enzyme induction in man.", "content": "It has previously been suggested that subjects who are initially slow metabolisers of drugs have a greater potential for induction of their drug metabolising enzymes than subjects with initial high rates of metabolism. This inference is based on observations made of changes in half-life of antipyrine. The purpose of this presentation is to reanalyse data previously presented in the literature with reference to clearance, a more precise estimate of drug metabolising activity, and half-life a parameter derived from both clearance and distribution. In one study in non-obese subjects, approximately 80% of intersubject variation in the change of total antipyrine clearance can be explained by differences in body size, particularly differences in liver volume. Furthermore, the relationship between initial antipyrine half-life and the percentage change in antipyrine half-life following induction can be explained by the association between each parameter and body weight. These observations imply that the potential for enzyme induction, and therefore for drug interactions based on enzyme induction, is present in all subjects and that intersubject variance in steady-state drug concentrations are as wide following induction as before induction.", "contents": "A re-evaluation of intersubject variation in enzyme induction in man. It has previously been suggested that subjects who are initially slow metabolisers of drugs have a greater potential for induction of their drug metabolising enzymes than subjects with initial high rates of metabolism. This inference is based on observations made of changes in half-life of antipyrine. The purpose of this presentation is to reanalyse data previously presented in the literature with reference to clearance, a more precise estimate of drug metabolising activity, and half-life a parameter derived from both clearance and distribution. In one study in non-obese subjects, approximately 80% of intersubject variation in the change of total antipyrine clearance can be explained by differences in body size, particularly differences in liver volume. Furthermore, the relationship between initial antipyrine half-life and the percentage change in antipyrine half-life following induction can be explained by the association between each parameter and body weight. These observations imply that the potential for enzyme induction, and therefore for drug interactions based on enzyme induction, is present in all subjects and that intersubject variance in steady-state drug concentrations are as wide following induction as before induction.", "PMID": 455871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11887", "title": "Plasma protein binding of etomidate in patients with renal failure or hepatic cirrhosis.", "content": "The influence of renal failure and of hepatic cirrhosis on the plasma protein binding of etomidate, an intravenous anaesthetic agent of basic nature, has been investigated. The percentage of free etomidate in plasma containing 1 microgram/ml was markedly increased in patients with renal failure and in patients with hepatic cirrhosis, when compared with a group of healthy volunteers (43.4 +/- 2.9% and 44.2 +/- 2.1 versus 24.9 +/- 1.4%). This decrease in binding correlated inversely with serum albumin levels in both conditions (r = -0.88 and r = 0.72, respectively) but a slight decrease in the amount bound per mole of albumin was also apparent in both types of disease.", "contents": "Plasma protein binding of etomidate in patients with renal failure or hepatic cirrhosis. The influence of renal failure and of hepatic cirrhosis on the plasma protein binding of etomidate, an intravenous anaesthetic agent of basic nature, has been investigated. The percentage of free etomidate in plasma containing 1 microgram/ml was markedly increased in patients with renal failure and in patients with hepatic cirrhosis, when compared with a group of healthy volunteers (43.4 +/- 2.9% and 44.2 +/- 2.1 versus 24.9 +/- 1.4%). This decrease in binding correlated inversely with serum albumin levels in both conditions (r = -0.88 and r = 0.72, respectively) but a slight decrease in the amount bound per mole of albumin was also apparent in both types of disease.", "PMID": 455872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11888", "title": "Isolated acute meningococcal arthritis.", "content": "Isolated, acute, suppurative meningococcal arthritis is reported in a five-month-old infant. It should be differentiated from arthritis associated with chronic meningococcemia and acute systemic meningococcemia.", "contents": "Isolated acute meningococcal arthritis. Isolated, acute, suppurative meningococcal arthritis is reported in a five-month-old infant. It should be differentiated from arthritis associated with chronic meningococcemia and acute systemic meningococcemia.", "PMID": 455878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11889", "title": "The white cell ratio in the very low birth weight infant.", "content": "The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of the white cell ratio of immature neutrophils (PMNs) to total (immature plus mature) PMNs as an indication of infection in the very small premature infant. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 59 premature infants less than or equal to 1,250 g admitted to our Newborn Intensive Care Unit over a one-year period who had at least one white count determined. Twenty-three were born after rupture of membranes for greater than or equal to 24 hours (PROM), 47 had a one-minute Apgar score less than or equal to 6 and 31 had a five-minute Apgar scores less than or equal to 6, 38 had respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and 4 had confirmed infection. Thirty-one of the infants had a ratio greater than or equal to .15 in the first day of life, a value which has been suggested in the literature as being abnormal and an indication to suspect sepsis. This ratio bore no statistical relationship to PROM, low Apgar scores, or RDS. We analyzed these same relationships using a ratio greater than or equal to .25, another ratio derived from data in the literature which has been said to suggest infection. No statistical correlation was found for low Apgars or RDS, but there was a significant relationship between PROM and attainment of a ratio greater than or equal to .25 (p less than .005). It is notable that 2 out of the 4 infants with infection had a ratio less than .15. We wish to cast doubt on the applicability of the currently defined WBC ratios in the literature as they apply to the infant with birth weight less than 1,250 g and emphasize the apparent effect of PROM as a factor upon these ratios.", "contents": "The white cell ratio in the very low birth weight infant. The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of the white cell ratio of immature neutrophils (PMNs) to total (immature plus mature) PMNs as an indication of infection in the very small premature infant. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 59 premature infants less than or equal to 1,250 g admitted to our Newborn Intensive Care Unit over a one-year period who had at least one white count determined. Twenty-three were born after rupture of membranes for greater than or equal to 24 hours (PROM), 47 had a one-minute Apgar score less than or equal to 6 and 31 had a five-minute Apgar scores less than or equal to 6, 38 had respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and 4 had confirmed infection. Thirty-one of the infants had a ratio greater than or equal to .15 in the first day of life, a value which has been suggested in the literature as being abnormal and an indication to suspect sepsis. This ratio bore no statistical relationship to PROM, low Apgar scores, or RDS. We analyzed these same relationships using a ratio greater than or equal to .25, another ratio derived from data in the literature which has been said to suggest infection. No statistical correlation was found for low Apgars or RDS, but there was a significant relationship between PROM and attainment of a ratio greater than or equal to .25 (p less than .005). It is notable that 2 out of the 4 infants with infection had a ratio less than .15. We wish to cast doubt on the applicability of the currently defined WBC ratios in the literature as they apply to the infant with birth weight less than 1,250 g and emphasize the apparent effect of PROM as a factor upon these ratios.", "PMID": 455879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11890", "title": "Chronic foreign body aspiration diagnosed by lung scan.", "content": "The case of a two-year-old child with foreign body aspiration is presented. It was complicated by a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Lung scan was helpful in eventually establishing the diagnosis. Key points in the management of patients with foreign body aspiration are reviewed and pathophysiologic mechanisms are discussed.", "contents": "Chronic foreign body aspiration diagnosed by lung scan. The case of a two-year-old child with foreign body aspiration is presented. It was complicated by a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Lung scan was helpful in eventually establishing the diagnosis. Key points in the management of patients with foreign body aspiration are reviewed and pathophysiologic mechanisms are discussed.", "PMID": 455882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11891", "title": "Anuria in childhood due to bilateral urolithiasis. A report of four cases.", "content": "Four children with anuria due to occlusion of both ureters by calculi are presented. A plain film of the abdomen revealed faintly radiopaque urinary calculi bilaterally in three patients. In the fourth case, one calculus was visualized in the right ureter, but further contralateral exploration showed an obstructing ureteral calculus in the left ureter as well. It is concluded that in children with acute anuria, the possibility of bilateral ureteral obstruction due to calculi should be the physician's first consideration.", "contents": "Anuria in childhood due to bilateral urolithiasis. A report of four cases. Four children with anuria due to occlusion of both ureters by calculi are presented. A plain film of the abdomen revealed faintly radiopaque urinary calculi bilaterally in three patients. In the fourth case, one calculus was visualized in the right ureter, but further contralateral exploration showed an obstructing ureteral calculus in the left ureter as well. It is concluded that in children with acute anuria, the possibility of bilateral ureteral obstruction due to calculi should be the physician's first consideration.", "PMID": 455883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11892", "title": "Plasma clearance of propranolol and sotalol and hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activity.", "content": "The role of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activity for plasma propranolol and sotalol levels was investigated in 68 patients with hypertension or angina pectoris by comparing elimination rate with antipyrine kinetics and cytochrome P-450 content in the liver. All subjects were resistant to or had hepatotoxic reaction to previous treatment. Plasma antipyrine clearance and cytochrome P-450 content in biopsies were related to propranolol elimination from plasma, the best fit being obtained with the clearance values. Sotalol plasma clearance was not related to any indirect or direct reflector of the hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme system. The results demonstrate that plasma clearance of the short-acting beta blocker, propranolol, depends on the activity of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme system and indicates a trial with a drug such as sotalol which is not dependent on liver metabolizing capacity.", "contents": "Plasma clearance of propranolol and sotalol and hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activity. The role of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activity for plasma propranolol and sotalol levels was investigated in 68 patients with hypertension or angina pectoris by comparing elimination rate with antipyrine kinetics and cytochrome P-450 content in the liver. All subjects were resistant to or had hepatotoxic reaction to previous treatment. Plasma antipyrine clearance and cytochrome P-450 content in biopsies were related to propranolol elimination from plasma, the best fit being obtained with the clearance values. Sotalol plasma clearance was not related to any indirect or direct reflector of the hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme system. The results demonstrate that plasma clearance of the short-acting beta blocker, propranolol, depends on the activity of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme system and indicates a trial with a drug such as sotalol which is not dependent on liver metabolizing capacity.", "PMID": 455885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11893", "title": "Presystemic and systemic glucuronidation of propranolol.", "content": "The relative importance of presystemic and systemic glucuronidation of propranolol was examined in normal subjects given single oral and intravenous doses of propranolol. The areas under the plasma concentration--time curves (AUCs) of propranolol glucuronide (PG), 41 +/- 15 ng . hr/ml, and propranolol, 48 +/- 15 ng . hr/ml, were of the same order after the intravenous dose (0.05 mg/kg). After oral doses of 20 and 80 mg, the AUCs of PG were 302 +/- 105 and 1,398 +/- 409 ng . hr/ml; these were 7 times the AUCs of propranolol, 44 +/- 15 and 220 +/- 38 ng . hr/ml. The time lapse to peak concentration, 1.5 to 3.0 hr, and the plasma half-life, 3.2 to 3.7 hr, were the same for PG and propranolol. These results demonstrate glucuronidation as an important determinant of propranolol bioavailability.", "contents": "Presystemic and systemic glucuronidation of propranolol. The relative importance of presystemic and systemic glucuronidation of propranolol was examined in normal subjects given single oral and intravenous doses of propranolol. The areas under the plasma concentration--time curves (AUCs) of propranolol glucuronide (PG), 41 +/- 15 ng . hr/ml, and propranolol, 48 +/- 15 ng . hr/ml, were of the same order after the intravenous dose (0.05 mg/kg). After oral doses of 20 and 80 mg, the AUCs of PG were 302 +/- 105 and 1,398 +/- 409 ng . hr/ml; these were 7 times the AUCs of propranolol, 44 +/- 15 and 220 +/- 38 ng . hr/ml. The time lapse to peak concentration, 1.5 to 3.0 hr, and the plasma half-life, 3.2 to 3.7 hr, were the same for PG and propranolol. These results demonstrate glucuronidation as an important determinant of propranolol bioavailability.", "PMID": 455886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11894", "title": "Maternal, fetal, and neonatal metabolism of lidocaine.", "content": "We investigated the metabolism of lidocaine to its active metabolites--monoethylglycinexylidide (MEGX) and glycinexylidide (GX)--in the mother, fetus, and neonate. The study population included normal patients and their infants delivered either vaginally or by cesarean section. A group of infants of mothers in whom pudendal anesthesia was induced was also included. Using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques, the concentrations of lidocaine, MEGX, and GX were determined in maternal plasma during labor, in umbilical cord venous and arterial plasma at delivery, and in maternal and neonatal urine for 3 days post partum. The results indicate the following: In maternal plasma, MEGX rises throughout labor and GX is usually detectable within an hour of medication; in cord blood plasma the levels of lidocaine, MEGX, and GX suggest fetal metabolism of lidocaine; and in neonatal urine, the relative levels of parent compound and metabolites confirm lidocaine metabolism by the neonate.", "contents": "Maternal, fetal, and neonatal metabolism of lidocaine. We investigated the metabolism of lidocaine to its active metabolites--monoethylglycinexylidide (MEGX) and glycinexylidide (GX)--in the mother, fetus, and neonate. The study population included normal patients and their infants delivered either vaginally or by cesarean section. A group of infants of mothers in whom pudendal anesthesia was induced was also included. Using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques, the concentrations of lidocaine, MEGX, and GX were determined in maternal plasma during labor, in umbilical cord venous and arterial plasma at delivery, and in maternal and neonatal urine for 3 days post partum. The results indicate the following: In maternal plasma, MEGX rises throughout labor and GX is usually detectable within an hour of medication; in cord blood plasma the levels of lidocaine, MEGX, and GX suggest fetal metabolism of lidocaine; and in neonatal urine, the relative levels of parent compound and metabolites confirm lidocaine metabolism by the neonate.", "PMID": 455889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11895", "title": "Alterations in the disposition of differently cleared drugs in patients with cirrhosis.", "content": "We have compared the disposition of antipyrine orally (15 mg/kg) and the new antiarrhythmic drug lorcainide intravenously (1.5 mg/kg) in 8 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Antipyrine (AP) serves as a model drug for drugs which are eliminated independently of liver blood flow and lorcainide (L) elimination as a model for drugs which depend on liver blood flow. Since in healthy subjects elimination half-life (t 1/2) of L increased with age (r = 0.68, p less than 0.01) due to parallel change in the volume of distribution (r = 0.52, p less than 0.05), its disposition had to be compared to age-matched controls. Elimination of both AP and L was impaired in cirrhotic patients, expressed either in terms (mean +/- SD) of t 1/2 (AP = 26.8 +/- 15.0 hr and 12.3 +/- 1.8; L = 12.5 +/- 4.5 hr and 7.7 +/- 2.2 hr, p = 0.002) or of clearance (Cl) (AP = 21.9 +/- 7.9 ml/min and 41.7 +/- 5.5 ml/min; L = 814 +/- 144 and 1002 +/- 304 ml/min, p = 0.06). While the alterations in plasma Cl were great for AP, they were smaller for L. This suggests that elimination of drugs in cirrhotic patients is associated with relatively more impairment of enzyme activity than of hepatic blood flow. The slightly decreased Cl of L in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis would suggest that L should be carefully handled in patients with dysfunction of the liver.", "contents": "Alterations in the disposition of differently cleared drugs in patients with cirrhosis. We have compared the disposition of antipyrine orally (15 mg/kg) and the new antiarrhythmic drug lorcainide intravenously (1.5 mg/kg) in 8 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Antipyrine (AP) serves as a model drug for drugs which are eliminated independently of liver blood flow and lorcainide (L) elimination as a model for drugs which depend on liver blood flow. Since in healthy subjects elimination half-life (t 1/2) of L increased with age (r = 0.68, p less than 0.01) due to parallel change in the volume of distribution (r = 0.52, p less than 0.05), its disposition had to be compared to age-matched controls. Elimination of both AP and L was impaired in cirrhotic patients, expressed either in terms (mean +/- SD) of t 1/2 (AP = 26.8 +/- 15.0 hr and 12.3 +/- 1.8; L = 12.5 +/- 4.5 hr and 7.7 +/- 2.2 hr, p = 0.002) or of clearance (Cl) (AP = 21.9 +/- 7.9 ml/min and 41.7 +/- 5.5 ml/min; L = 814 +/- 144 and 1002 +/- 304 ml/min, p = 0.06). While the alterations in plasma Cl were great for AP, they were smaller for L. This suggests that elimination of drugs in cirrhotic patients is associated with relatively more impairment of enzyme activity than of hepatic blood flow. The slightly decreased Cl of L in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis would suggest that L should be carefully handled in patients with dysfunction of the liver.", "PMID": 455890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11896", "title": "Kinetics of intravenous mezlocillin in chronic hemodialysis patients.", "content": "The kinetics of intravenous mezlocillin was studied in 8 patients with creatinine clearances under 7 ml/min who were undergoing chronic hemodialysis. Kinetic parameters were determined using a 2-compartment linear model. The mezlocillin serum half-life (t 1/2) in these patients ranged from 2.9 to 7.8 hr (mean, 5.4). The t 1/2 decreased to 1.57 +/- 0.09 hr during dialysis. Approximately 18% of the dose was recovered in the dialysate in 4 hr of dialysis. There was a 30% reduction per hour in serum concentration. The kinetics of mezlocillin, due to removal by nonrenal mechanisms, more closely resemble the kinetics of penicillin G and ampicillin than of carbenicillin and ticarcillin. A dosage schedule for use of intravenous mezlocillin in patients undergoing hemodialysis is presented.", "contents": "Kinetics of intravenous mezlocillin in chronic hemodialysis patients. The kinetics of intravenous mezlocillin was studied in 8 patients with creatinine clearances under 7 ml/min who were undergoing chronic hemodialysis. Kinetic parameters were determined using a 2-compartment linear model. The mezlocillin serum half-life (t 1/2) in these patients ranged from 2.9 to 7.8 hr (mean, 5.4). The t 1/2 decreased to 1.57 +/- 0.09 hr during dialysis. Approximately 18% of the dose was recovered in the dialysate in 4 hr of dialysis. There was a 30% reduction per hour in serum concentration. The kinetics of mezlocillin, due to removal by nonrenal mechanisms, more closely resemble the kinetics of penicillin G and ampicillin than of carbenicillin and ticarcillin. A dosage schedule for use of intravenous mezlocillin in patients undergoing hemodialysis is presented.", "PMID": 455891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11897", "title": "Rectal and oral absorption of methylprednisolone acetate.", "content": "Rectal absorption of methylprednisolone acetate and oral absorption of methylprednisolone and methylprednisolone acetate were investigated in a single-dose 3-way crossover study of 12 normal male volunteers. The median value of bioavailability (relative to oral dose) of methylprednisolone acetate based on unchanged methylprednisolone plasma levels was 14.2% after rectal administration, suggesting that the drug exerts its therapeutic effect topically rather than systemically. In contrast, the median of total radioactivity in urine (as a percentage of rectal dose) was 34.3% (range, 4.52% to 58.8%), suggesting partial bacterial metabolism in the rectum prior to absorption. Mean bioavailability (relative to oral administration of methylprednisolone acetate) of methylprednisolone after oral administration was 89.9%, indicating somewhat better systemic availability of the ester than the alcohol. The average apparent elimination rate constant for methylprednisolone after oral administration of both ester and alcohol was 0.290 hr-1, corresponding to a half-life of 2.39 hr.", "contents": "Rectal and oral absorption of methylprednisolone acetate. Rectal absorption of methylprednisolone acetate and oral absorption of methylprednisolone and methylprednisolone acetate were investigated in a single-dose 3-way crossover study of 12 normal male volunteers. The median value of bioavailability (relative to oral dose) of methylprednisolone acetate based on unchanged methylprednisolone plasma levels was 14.2% after rectal administration, suggesting that the drug exerts its therapeutic effect topically rather than systemically. In contrast, the median of total radioactivity in urine (as a percentage of rectal dose) was 34.3% (range, 4.52% to 58.8%), suggesting partial bacterial metabolism in the rectum prior to absorption. Mean bioavailability (relative to oral administration of methylprednisolone acetate) of methylprednisolone after oral administration was 89.9%, indicating somewhat better systemic availability of the ester than the alcohol. The average apparent elimination rate constant for methylprednisolone after oral administration of both ester and alcohol was 0.290 hr-1, corresponding to a half-life of 2.39 hr.", "PMID": 455892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11898", "title": "Chlordiazepoxide and oxazepam disposition in cirrhosis.", "content": "When disease impairs clearance of drugs, multiple-dose therapy may result in cumulation. The disposition of chlordiazepoxide (CDX), 50 mg infused intravenously over 10 min, was studied in 14 normal subjects and in 11 patients with biopsy-proven cirrhosis. In the normal subjects, mean (+/- SE) kinetic parameters were: t 1/2 beta, 10.0 (+/- 0.9) hr; Vd, 0.38 (+/- 0.04) l/kg; clearance, 0.54 (+/- 0.13) ml/min/kg. Clearance of total drug correlated inversely with serum albumin concentration in normal subjects (r = -0.63). Values in cirrhotic patients were: t 1/2 beta, 34.9 (+/- 8.7) hr; Vd, 0.34 (+/- 0.024) 1/kg; and clearance, 0.185 (+/- 0.34) ml/min/kg. Desmethylchlordiazepoxide (DMCDX), the major metabolite of CDX, appeared in blood of cirrhotic patients less rapidly than in normal subjects. Severity of liver disease did not indicate the impairment of CDX clearance. In 5 of the same cirrhotic patients, mean t 1/2 beta for oxazepam (7.1 +/- 1.0 hr) was 27% longer than in control subjects (5.6 +/- 0.7 hr); the difference is not significant. On kinetic grounds oxazepam may be preferable to chlordiazepoxide in cirrhotic patients since its elimination kinetics are not greatly altered in cirrhosis.", "contents": "Chlordiazepoxide and oxazepam disposition in cirrhosis. When disease impairs clearance of drugs, multiple-dose therapy may result in cumulation. The disposition of chlordiazepoxide (CDX), 50 mg infused intravenously over 10 min, was studied in 14 normal subjects and in 11 patients with biopsy-proven cirrhosis. In the normal subjects, mean (+/- SE) kinetic parameters were: t 1/2 beta, 10.0 (+/- 0.9) hr; Vd, 0.38 (+/- 0.04) l/kg; clearance, 0.54 (+/- 0.13) ml/min/kg. Clearance of total drug correlated inversely with serum albumin concentration in normal subjects (r = -0.63). Values in cirrhotic patients were: t 1/2 beta, 34.9 (+/- 8.7) hr; Vd, 0.34 (+/- 0.024) 1/kg; and clearance, 0.185 (+/- 0.34) ml/min/kg. Desmethylchlordiazepoxide (DMCDX), the major metabolite of CDX, appeared in blood of cirrhotic patients less rapidly than in normal subjects. Severity of liver disease did not indicate the impairment of CDX clearance. In 5 of the same cirrhotic patients, mean t 1/2 beta for oxazepam (7.1 +/- 1.0 hr) was 27% longer than in control subjects (5.6 +/- 0.7 hr); the difference is not significant. On kinetic grounds oxazepam may be preferable to chlordiazepoxide in cirrhotic patients since its elimination kinetics are not greatly altered in cirrhosis.", "PMID": 455893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11899", "title": "Intravenous phenobarbital therapy in barbiturate and other hypnosedative withdrawal reactions: a kinetic approach.", "content": "Phenobarbital (0.03 to 0.04 mg/kg/min) was infused intravenously in 7 patients with clinical hypnosedative withdrawal reaction until patients slept but were arousable. The infusion time to reach this clinical end point was 7.8 +/- 1.1 hr (mean +/- SEM), the total dose was 992 +/- 144 mg, and the peak serum phenobarbital concentration was 26.1 +/- 5.1 micrograms/ml. A user of minimal hypnosedatives required 54% less phenobarbital and 65% lower concentration than any of the abusers to reach an equivalent state of intoxication. The mean serum half-life (t 1/2) was 57.5 +/- 4.9 hr for hypnosedative abusers and 86 +/- 3 hr for 8 normal volunteers (p less than 0.001). Only the patient with the shortest t 1/2 (36.4 hr) required oral phenobarbital supplements to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Dosage supplements required can be calculated from the postinfusion rate of fall of serum phenobarbital. Slow infusion of large amounts of phenobarbital provides a safe, efficacious single-dose treatment.", "contents": "Intravenous phenobarbital therapy in barbiturate and other hypnosedative withdrawal reactions: a kinetic approach. Phenobarbital (0.03 to 0.04 mg/kg/min) was infused intravenously in 7 patients with clinical hypnosedative withdrawal reaction until patients slept but were arousable. The infusion time to reach this clinical end point was 7.8 +/- 1.1 hr (mean +/- SEM), the total dose was 992 +/- 144 mg, and the peak serum phenobarbital concentration was 26.1 +/- 5.1 micrograms/ml. A user of minimal hypnosedatives required 54% less phenobarbital and 65% lower concentration than any of the abusers to reach an equivalent state of intoxication. The mean serum half-life (t 1/2) was 57.5 +/- 4.9 hr for hypnosedative abusers and 86 +/- 3 hr for 8 normal volunteers (p less than 0.001). Only the patient with the shortest t 1/2 (36.4 hr) required oral phenobarbital supplements to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Dosage supplements required can be calculated from the postinfusion rate of fall of serum phenobarbital. Slow infusion of large amounts of phenobarbital provides a safe, efficacious single-dose treatment.", "PMID": 455894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11900", "title": "Techniques for plasma protein binding of demethylchlorimipramine.", "content": "The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma levels of demethylchlorimipramine (DMCI) were determined during treatment of depression or obsessive-compulsive disorders with chlorimipramine. In 18 patients the mean CSF/plasma ratio of DMCI was 2.6% +/- 0.7 SD with fourfold variation (1.1% to 4.0%). In spite of this variation, the levels in CSF and plasma at steady state correlated closely (r = 0.91; p less than 0.001). With equilibrium dialysis for the determination of the protein binding of DMCI, a much higher free fraction was found in patients (8.0 +/- 1.6%) and in control subjects (8.2 +/- 1.4%). It was shown that part of the plasma binding capacity was lost during the incubation. Results obtained by ultrafiltration (3.9 +/- 1.0% unbound drug) were closer to the in vivo results, but this method also had disadvantages; much of the drug was absorbed on the ultrafiltration dialysis membrane. Our results suggest that there is a need for care in the selection of a technique for studies of drug protein binding.", "contents": "Techniques for plasma protein binding of demethylchlorimipramine. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma levels of demethylchlorimipramine (DMCI) were determined during treatment of depression or obsessive-compulsive disorders with chlorimipramine. In 18 patients the mean CSF/plasma ratio of DMCI was 2.6% +/- 0.7 SD with fourfold variation (1.1% to 4.0%). In spite of this variation, the levels in CSF and plasma at steady state correlated closely (r = 0.91; p less than 0.001). With equilibrium dialysis for the determination of the protein binding of DMCI, a much higher free fraction was found in patients (8.0 +/- 1.6%) and in control subjects (8.2 +/- 1.4%). It was shown that part of the plasma binding capacity was lost during the incubation. Results obtained by ultrafiltration (3.9 +/- 1.0% unbound drug) were closer to the in vivo results, but this method also had disadvantages; much of the drug was absorbed on the ultrafiltration dialysis membrane. Our results suggest that there is a need for care in the selection of a technique for studies of drug protein binding.", "PMID": 455895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11901", "title": "The role of computed tomography in the management of testicular teratoma.", "content": "CT scans of the lungs, mediastinum and abdomen have been performed in 65 patients with malignant teratoma between August 1977 and June 1978. CT is superior to conventional radiology in detecting pulmonary metastases and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. It is a valuable technique for defining the full extent of para-aortic nodal disease and provides more information than lymphography alone. In this series sequential CT scans have been used to monitor treatment response to detect relapse and to assess operability of demonstrable residual disease.", "contents": "The role of computed tomography in the management of testicular teratoma. CT scans of the lungs, mediastinum and abdomen have been performed in 65 patients with malignant teratoma between August 1977 and June 1978. CT is superior to conventional radiology in detecting pulmonary metastases and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. It is a valuable technique for defining the full extent of para-aortic nodal disease and provides more information than lymphography alone. In this series sequential CT scans have been used to monitor treatment response to detect relapse and to assess operability of demonstrable residual disease.", "PMID": 455896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11902", "title": "A rotation technique for irradiation of the bladder and the results obtained.", "content": "An argument is advanced for the use of partial rotational techniques for the treatment of carcinoma of the bladder. One hundred and seventy cases are analysed: the majority were T3 solid transitional cell lesions with an overall (corrected) survival rate of 24.7%. Salvage cystectomy produced a four-year survival rate of 40% when performed within six months of the radiotherapy.", "contents": "A rotation technique for irradiation of the bladder and the results obtained. An argument is advanced for the use of partial rotational techniques for the treatment of carcinoma of the bladder. One hundred and seventy cases are analysed: the majority were T3 solid transitional cell lesions with an overall (corrected) survival rate of 24.7%. Salvage cystectomy produced a four-year survival rate of 40% when performed within six months of the radiotherapy.", "PMID": 455898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11903", "title": "The dose-time relationship in the radiotherapy of carcinoma of the cervix uteri: an application of the CRE formalism.", "content": "A correlation could be obtained between the likelihood of control of central and nodal disease and the corresponding local CRE levels attained in a group of 79 cases of carcinoma of the cervix uteri treated according to a multistage protocol involving a combination of external telecobalt irradiation and intracavitary radium application. A nodal CRE level of 1700 reu and a central CRE value of 2900 reu seemed to be optimal for control of modal metastases and central disease respectively. These CRE levels seemed to be well tolerated even if salvage surgery had to be performed.", "contents": "The dose-time relationship in the radiotherapy of carcinoma of the cervix uteri: an application of the CRE formalism. A correlation could be obtained between the likelihood of control of central and nodal disease and the corresponding local CRE levels attained in a group of 79 cases of carcinoma of the cervix uteri treated according to a multistage protocol involving a combination of external telecobalt irradiation and intracavitary radium application. A nodal CRE level of 1700 reu and a central CRE value of 2900 reu seemed to be optimal for control of modal metastases and central disease respectively. These CRE levels seemed to be well tolerated even if salvage surgery had to be performed.", "PMID": 455899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11904", "title": "Isoeffect lines using TDF and CRE concepts.", "content": "In most of the radiotherapy centres the treatment planning is based on isodose lines. Isoeffect lines are also being drawn based on the concepts of TDFs and CREs. It was aimed in this work to find out whether the isoeffect lines based on the concepts of TDFs, CREs and the physical isodose lines are identical in all the treatment situations. Isoeffect lines for a few treatment schedules involving treatment of carcinoma of the bladder, treatment of cancer of the uterine cervix by combined intracavitary and external beam therapies and intracavitary therapy alone have been obtained and compared in the present study. The effect of treatment mode on the isoeffect lines is also studied. It is found that the isodose curves and the isoeffect lines using the TDF and CRE concepts are not identical in all situations. Therefore, the ultimate treatment plans based on theses isoeffect lines will not be exactly the same. The dependence of the isoeffect lines with the variation of the exponents of time and number of fractions used in the empirical relationship for NSD have also been investigated. Clinical trials have been initiated in the case of cancer of the bladder and cervix uterus based on the isodose curves and the isoeffect lines using CRE and TDF concepts.", "contents": "Isoeffect lines using TDF and CRE concepts. In most of the radiotherapy centres the treatment planning is based on isodose lines. Isoeffect lines are also being drawn based on the concepts of TDFs and CREs. It was aimed in this work to find out whether the isoeffect lines based on the concepts of TDFs, CREs and the physical isodose lines are identical in all the treatment situations. Isoeffect lines for a few treatment schedules involving treatment of carcinoma of the bladder, treatment of cancer of the uterine cervix by combined intracavitary and external beam therapies and intracavitary therapy alone have been obtained and compared in the present study. The effect of treatment mode on the isoeffect lines is also studied. It is found that the isodose curves and the isoeffect lines using the TDF and CRE concepts are not identical in all situations. Therefore, the ultimate treatment plans based on theses isoeffect lines will not be exactly the same. The dependence of the isoeffect lines with the variation of the exponents of time and number of fractions used in the empirical relationship for NSD have also been investigated. Clinical trials have been initiated in the case of cancer of the bladder and cervix uterus based on the isodose curves and the isoeffect lines using CRE and TDF concepts.", "PMID": 455900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11905", "title": "Needle localisation of non-palpable breast lesions.", "content": "Localisation of non-palpable breast lesions using a simple inexpensive apparatus which can be constructed in most hospital workshops is described. A single-needle bi-plane technique is used. The details of the apparatus are given and the radiographic control of the insertion of the needle is described, particular emphasis being placed on practical details in order to assist those who are unfamiliar with the technique. The importance of localisation for the pathologist is emphasised.", "contents": "Needle localisation of non-palpable breast lesions. Localisation of non-palpable breast lesions using a simple inexpensive apparatus which can be constructed in most hospital workshops is described. A single-needle bi-plane technique is used. The details of the apparatus are given and the radiographic control of the insertion of the needle is described, particular emphasis being placed on practical details in order to assist those who are unfamiliar with the technique. The importance of localisation for the pathologist is emphasised.", "PMID": 455901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11906", "title": "Ultrasonic detection of pericardial effusions adjacent to the right atrium during routine examination of the upper abdomen.", "content": "Pericardial effusions are usually detected on ultrasound by examining the heart with time--motion (T/M) or real-time equipment through a left chest intercostal space. Since fluid within the pericardium also accumulated around the right atrium, effusions can also be diagnosed by observing fluid separating the right atrium from hemidiaphragm on parasagittal scans of the right upper abdomen. In order to be certain that this space represents pericardial rather than pleural fluid, the inferior vena cava must be identified along the lower margin of the fluid space as a tubular structure traversing from the diaphragm into the right atrium. Our procedure is proposed as an ancillary approach for detecting clinica-ly unsuspected effusions during the routine examination of the upper abdomen rather than as a replacement for the usual method of visualising pericardial effusions.", "contents": "Ultrasonic detection of pericardial effusions adjacent to the right atrium during routine examination of the upper abdomen. Pericardial effusions are usually detected on ultrasound by examining the heart with time--motion (T/M) or real-time equipment through a left chest intercostal space. Since fluid within the pericardium also accumulated around the right atrium, effusions can also be diagnosed by observing fluid separating the right atrium from hemidiaphragm on parasagittal scans of the right upper abdomen. In order to be certain that this space represents pericardial rather than pleural fluid, the inferior vena cava must be identified along the lower margin of the fluid space as a tubular structure traversing from the diaphragm into the right atrium. Our procedure is proposed as an ancillary approach for detecting clinica-ly unsuspected effusions during the routine examination of the upper abdomen rather than as a replacement for the usual method of visualising pericardial effusions.", "PMID": 455902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11907", "title": "Primary disorders of bone with 'spinal block'.", "content": "Two hundred and thirty-two cases of compression of the spinal cord or cauda equina included 11 cases where compression was entirely due to a primary bony disorder and 20 further cases where developmental spinal stenosis was the main cause of compression. The former group consisted of two cases of Paget's disease and one each of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, chondrosarcoma, achondroplasia, spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia, Klippel--Feil syndrome, haemangioma of bone, primary bone reticulosarcoma, osteoporotic fracture and vertebral osteomyelitis. Three patients, with fibrous dysplasia, chondrosarcoma and Paget's disease with recurrent compression respectively, are described and the relevant literature is reviewed. The large number of primary disorders of bone which can cause cord compression are tabulated. Cord compression is a rare complication in most of these disorders but collectively they caused 13% of the cases of spinal block in this series.", "contents": "Primary disorders of bone with 'spinal block'. Two hundred and thirty-two cases of compression of the spinal cord or cauda equina included 11 cases where compression was entirely due to a primary bony disorder and 20 further cases where developmental spinal stenosis was the main cause of compression. The former group consisted of two cases of Paget's disease and one each of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, chondrosarcoma, achondroplasia, spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia, Klippel--Feil syndrome, haemangioma of bone, primary bone reticulosarcoma, osteoporotic fracture and vertebral osteomyelitis. Three patients, with fibrous dysplasia, chondrosarcoma and Paget's disease with recurrent compression respectively, are described and the relevant literature is reviewed. The large number of primary disorders of bone which can cause cord compression are tabulated. Cord compression is a rare complication in most of these disorders but collectively they caused 13% of the cases of spinal block in this series.", "PMID": 455903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11908", "title": "Thinning of the clavicular cortex in adults under the age of 45 in osteomalacia and hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "A study involving 18 patients shows that thinning of the upper cortex of the clavicle in adults under the age of 45 is most commonly due to renal osteodystrophy or coeliac disease. Cortical thinning should not therefore be regarded as synonymous with osteoporosis. Cortical thinning is usually associated with clavicular erosion in renal osteodystrophy but not in osteoporosis or osteomalacia. The radiological diagnosis of coeliac disease is suggested when thinning of the clavicular cortex is combined with air--fluid levels on abdominal radiography in a patient under the age of 45 years.", "contents": "Thinning of the clavicular cortex in adults under the age of 45 in osteomalacia and hyperparathyroidism. A study involving 18 patients shows that thinning of the upper cortex of the clavicle in adults under the age of 45 is most commonly due to renal osteodystrophy or coeliac disease. Cortical thinning should not therefore be regarded as synonymous with osteoporosis. Cortical thinning is usually associated with clavicular erosion in renal osteodystrophy but not in osteoporosis or osteomalacia. The radiological diagnosis of coeliac disease is suggested when thinning of the clavicular cortex is combined with air--fluid levels on abdominal radiography in a patient under the age of 45 years.", "PMID": 455904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11909", "title": "Elbow arthrography: brief technical considerations.", "content": "The author describes his technique for elbow arthrography. Linear tomography is advocated as a useful supplemental technique in both single and double contrast examinations.", "contents": "Elbow arthrography: brief technical considerations. The author describes his technique for elbow arthrography. Linear tomography is advocated as a useful supplemental technique in both single and double contrast examinations.", "PMID": 455905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11910", "title": "Tarsal bone disintegration in leprosy.", "content": "Tarsal bone disintegration is characterised by fragmentation and progressive collapse of one or more tarsal bones. It occurs in 10% of leprosy patients, and is responsible for many severe foot deformities associated with this disease. The main cause is micro-traumata, but sensory impairment, sepsis and osteoporosis are predisposing factors. In this series of 400 consecutive patients the talus and navicular were involved most frequently (2% of 119 tarsal lesions). Treatment, including prolonged immobilisation of the foot, results in dense sclerosis of the affected bone, and leaves a functional limb. Initial radiological features include: (i) Bone fragmentation. (ii) Calcified fragments in adjacent soft tissues. (iii) Linear fractures. (iv) Progressive compression and deformity of the affected bone. (v) Loss of density of the affected bone. (vi) Flattening of the longitudinal plantar arch. Illustrative case histories are presented, and the differential diagnosis discussed.", "contents": "Tarsal bone disintegration in leprosy. Tarsal bone disintegration is characterised by fragmentation and progressive collapse of one or more tarsal bones. It occurs in 10% of leprosy patients, and is responsible for many severe foot deformities associated with this disease. The main cause is micro-traumata, but sensory impairment, sepsis and osteoporosis are predisposing factors. In this series of 400 consecutive patients the talus and navicular were involved most frequently (2% of 119 tarsal lesions). Treatment, including prolonged immobilisation of the foot, results in dense sclerosis of the affected bone, and leaves a functional limb. Initial radiological features include: (i) Bone fragmentation. (ii) Calcified fragments in adjacent soft tissues. (iii) Linear fractures. (iv) Progressive compression and deformity of the affected bone. (v) Loss of density of the affected bone. (vi) Flattening of the longitudinal plantar arch. Illustrative case histories are presented, and the differential diagnosis discussed.", "PMID": 455906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11911", "title": "Cleidocranial dysplasia. A family study.", "content": "The incidental observation of Wormian bones in the skull and defective ossification of the public symphysis in a mildly scoliotic 12-year-old girl prompted a clinical and radiological study of members of her family. The diagnosis of cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) was established by observing similar skeletal abnormalities in eight out of ten of them but the classical clavicular defect in only one, the last to be examined. Abnormal modelling of the medial end of both clavicles was observed in all those affected. A modelling defect of the public bones is suggested as an additional, hitherto undescribed, radiological sign. The progression with age of certain radiological features of CCD is discussed. It is suggested that this family represents an atypical variant of CCD. Such variance may be more prevalent in patients with mild scoliosis than presently suspected. A complete skeletal survey with espeical attention to the skull, pelvis and medial aspect of the clavicle and family studies may be essential for the definitive diagnosis of CCD in certain patients.", "contents": "Cleidocranial dysplasia. A family study. The incidental observation of Wormian bones in the skull and defective ossification of the public symphysis in a mildly scoliotic 12-year-old girl prompted a clinical and radiological study of members of her family. The diagnosis of cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) was established by observing similar skeletal abnormalities in eight out of ten of them but the classical clavicular defect in only one, the last to be examined. Abnormal modelling of the medial end of both clavicles was observed in all those affected. A modelling defect of the public bones is suggested as an additional, hitherto undescribed, radiological sign. The progression with age of certain radiological features of CCD is discussed. It is suggested that this family represents an atypical variant of CCD. Such variance may be more prevalent in patients with mild scoliosis than presently suspected. A complete skeletal survey with espeical attention to the skull, pelvis and medial aspect of the clavicle and family studies may be essential for the definitive diagnosis of CCD in certain patients.", "PMID": 455907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11912", "title": "The thoracic paraspinal line: further signficance.", "content": "Three hundred and seventeen cases which included 100 normal individuals have been studied for roentgen significance of the thoracic paraspinal line (TPL). The descending thoracic aorta greatly determines the course and configuration of the TPL. In a right-sided aorta, the TPL is seen on the right side as a mirror image of a left-sided TPL. Lateral deviation of the TPL and descending aorta occur as an ageing process. In systemic hypertension where there is an aortic unfolding, the TPL also unfolds and the degree of TPL deviation has a fair degree of linear relationship with the severity and duration of hypertension in young individuals. Most cases of mitral valvular disease show lateral deviation of the TPL and descending aorta. In these cases the enlarged left atrium displaces the descending aorta and hence the posteromedial border of left lung posterolaterally tangential to the vertebral column resulting in deviation of the TPL and aorta. Perioesophageal spread of carcinoma of the oesophagus into the posterior mediastinum is indicated by changes in pleuro-oesophageal interface and TPL. Mediastinal lymphadenopathy in cases of testicular tumours may be detected by discovery of TPL deviation on frontal radiographs of the thoracic spine. In extradural masses such as granulomas, abscesses and metastatic deposits, the TPL shows a localised bulge corresponding to the clinical and myelographic level of spinal compression.", "contents": "The thoracic paraspinal line: further signficance. Three hundred and seventeen cases which included 100 normal individuals have been studied for roentgen significance of the thoracic paraspinal line (TPL). The descending thoracic aorta greatly determines the course and configuration of the TPL. In a right-sided aorta, the TPL is seen on the right side as a mirror image of a left-sided TPL. Lateral deviation of the TPL and descending aorta occur as an ageing process. In systemic hypertension where there is an aortic unfolding, the TPL also unfolds and the degree of TPL deviation has a fair degree of linear relationship with the severity and duration of hypertension in young individuals. Most cases of mitral valvular disease show lateral deviation of the TPL and descending aorta. In these cases the enlarged left atrium displaces the descending aorta and hence the posteromedial border of left lung posterolaterally tangential to the vertebral column resulting in deviation of the TPL and aorta. Perioesophageal spread of carcinoma of the oesophagus into the posterior mediastinum is indicated by changes in pleuro-oesophageal interface and TPL. Mediastinal lymphadenopathy in cases of testicular tumours may be detected by discovery of TPL deviation on frontal radiographs of the thoracic spine. In extradural masses such as granulomas, abscesses and metastatic deposits, the TPL shows a localised bulge corresponding to the clinical and myelographic level of spinal compression.", "PMID": 455908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11913", "title": "The multi-channelled pylorus.", "content": "The entity of multiple pyloric channels may be congenital but the majority are acquired lesions representing fistulae secondary to peptic ulcer disease in the pyloroduodenal region. The fistula usually joins the lesser curvature of the stomach with the superior aspect of the duodenal bulb. The multichannelled pylorus produces a characteristic radiological appearance on barium mean examination with a double or split barium column in the region of the pylorus. Four cases are described and illustrated.", "contents": "The multi-channelled pylorus. The entity of multiple pyloric channels may be congenital but the majority are acquired lesions representing fistulae secondary to peptic ulcer disease in the pyloroduodenal region. The fistula usually joins the lesser curvature of the stomach with the superior aspect of the duodenal bulb. The multichannelled pylorus produces a characteristic radiological appearance on barium mean examination with a double or split barium column in the region of the pylorus. Four cases are described and illustrated.", "PMID": 455909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11914", "title": "Renal adenomas.", "content": "In presenting five new cases of renal adenomas the authors describe the general nature of these rare tumours. If the small adenoma corresponding to microscopic forms is frequent, the large adenoma is rare and always solitary. Haematuria and pain are the most common signs. The classic criterion of non-malignancy in a solid tumour measuring less than 3 cm has no diagnostic value. From a review of the lieterature on the subject, the authors demonstrate the angio-architecture corresponding to the different types of adenoma: the tubular adenoma which is hypervascularised and well circumscribed; the papillary adenoma, often cortical, hypovascular or avascular with bordering arcade; the alveolar adenoma; the mixed forms. They stress the difficulty of radiological diagnosis and the frequency of transitional forms with cancer. The place of angiography is in the pre-operative diagnostic assessment and in defining localised anomalies in angio-architecture which can guide histological examination in the search for neoplastic foci.", "contents": "Renal adenomas. In presenting five new cases of renal adenomas the authors describe the general nature of these rare tumours. If the small adenoma corresponding to microscopic forms is frequent, the large adenoma is rare and always solitary. Haematuria and pain are the most common signs. The classic criterion of non-malignancy in a solid tumour measuring less than 3 cm has no diagnostic value. From a review of the lieterature on the subject, the authors demonstrate the angio-architecture corresponding to the different types of adenoma: the tubular adenoma which is hypervascularised and well circumscribed; the papillary adenoma, often cortical, hypovascular or avascular with bordering arcade; the alveolar adenoma; the mixed forms. They stress the difficulty of radiological diagnosis and the frequency of transitional forms with cancer. The place of angiography is in the pre-operative diagnostic assessment and in defining localised anomalies in angio-architecture which can guide histological examination in the search for neoplastic foci.", "PMID": 455910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11915", "title": "Roentgenographic findings in a spectrum of uncommon tracheo-oesophageal anomalies.", "content": "Roentgenographic and clinical findings in a spectrum of malformations of the trachea and oesophagus are discussed. Five previously unreported patients representing four rare anomalies of tracheal agenesis, laryngotracheo-oesophageal cleft, oesophageal atresia with a tracheo-oesophageal (T-E) fistula to the proximal oesophageal pouch, and T-E fistula without oesophageal atresia (H-type fistula) are presented. These anomalies can be characterised by a failure in separation of the oesophagus and trachea and by atresia of either organ. All of the patients were diagnosed roentgenographically. Since the incidence of associated abnormalities is high in babies with these anomalies, a generalised embryological defect must be a basic assumption in any theory to explain the development of T-E anomalies.", "contents": "Roentgenographic findings in a spectrum of uncommon tracheo-oesophageal anomalies. Roentgenographic and clinical findings in a spectrum of malformations of the trachea and oesophagus are discussed. Five previously unreported patients representing four rare anomalies of tracheal agenesis, laryngotracheo-oesophageal cleft, oesophageal atresia with a tracheo-oesophageal (T-E) fistula to the proximal oesophageal pouch, and T-E fistula without oesophageal atresia (H-type fistula) are presented. These anomalies can be characterised by a failure in separation of the oesophagus and trachea and by atresia of either organ. All of the patients were diagnosed roentgenographically. Since the incidence of associated abnormalities is high in babies with these anomalies, a generalised embryological defect must be a basic assumption in any theory to explain the development of T-E anomalies.", "PMID": 455911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11916", "title": "Comparison of the cardiovascular toxicity of three tricyclic antidepressant drugs: imipramine, amitriptyline, and doxepin.", "content": "Experiments were conducted on puppies to compare the cardiovascular toxicity of imipramine, amitriptyline, and doxepin. The drugs were infused at weekly intervals to produce arrhythmias and/or hypotension. Imipramine was less arrhythmogenic and caused less fall in blood pressure for a given dose than amitriptyline or doxepin.", "contents": "Comparison of the cardiovascular toxicity of three tricyclic antidepressant drugs: imipramine, amitriptyline, and doxepin. Experiments were conducted on puppies to compare the cardiovascular toxicity of imipramine, amitriptyline, and doxepin. The drugs were infused at weekly intervals to produce arrhythmias and/or hypotension. Imipramine was less arrhythmogenic and caused less fall in blood pressure for a given dose than amitriptyline or doxepin.", "PMID": 455914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11917", "title": "An unusual case of carbamazepine poisoning with a near-fatal relapse after two days.", "content": "A severe case of carbamazepine is described in which the drug and its major metabolite were monitored by means of HPLC. After 2 days of treatment a dramatic rise in plasma concentration of carbamazepine and its metabolite was observed, accompanied by a relapse into deep coma, then followed by a rapid elimination of the drugs and complete recovery within 4 days. The possible mechanisms underlying these phenomena and potential therapeutic measures are discussed.", "contents": "An unusual case of carbamazepine poisoning with a near-fatal relapse after two days. A severe case of carbamazepine is described in which the drug and its major metabolite were monitored by means of HPLC. After 2 days of treatment a dramatic rise in plasma concentration of carbamazepine and its metabolite was observed, accompanied by a relapse into deep coma, then followed by a rapid elimination of the drugs and complete recovery within 4 days. The possible mechanisms underlying these phenomena and potential therapeutic measures are discussed.", "PMID": 455916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11918", "title": "Cancer in a community subject to air pollution by solvent vapors.", "content": "In an area where the residents were chronically exposed to a mixture of solvent vapors in the atmosphere, the incidence of malignancy is abnormal. Particularly notable is the number of malignant lymphomas [1].", "contents": "Cancer in a community subject to air pollution by solvent vapors. In an area where the residents were chronically exposed to a mixture of solvent vapors in the atmosphere, the incidence of malignancy is abnormal. Particularly notable is the number of malignant lymphomas [1].", "PMID": 455919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11919", "title": "Abuse and pulmonary complications of injecting pentazocine and tripelennamine tablets.", "content": "A current practice among drug abusers in certain Midwestern and Eastern cities is the intravenous injection of aqueous mixtures prepared from tablets of pentazocine and tripelennamine. Patients present with acute hypoxic episodes and symptoms suggesting physical dependence to pentazocine. Two cases are presented illustrating acute respiratory distress with hypoxia. Available evidence indicates that the respiratory syndrome is produced by talc from the injected tablets. Respiratory support and short-term oxygen therapy have been effective in managing this syndrome. Approaches to the treatment of pentazocine dependence and the role of the antihistamine in potentiating the narcotic activity are also discussed. Physicians, drug abuse counselors, and others should be aware of the abuse potential and pulmonary damage which can result from the intravenous use of this drug combination.", "contents": "Abuse and pulmonary complications of injecting pentazocine and tripelennamine tablets. A current practice among drug abusers in certain Midwestern and Eastern cities is the intravenous injection of aqueous mixtures prepared from tablets of pentazocine and tripelennamine. Patients present with acute hypoxic episodes and symptoms suggesting physical dependence to pentazocine. Two cases are presented illustrating acute respiratory distress with hypoxia. Available evidence indicates that the respiratory syndrome is produced by talc from the injected tablets. Respiratory support and short-term oxygen therapy have been effective in managing this syndrome. Approaches to the treatment of pentazocine dependence and the role of the antihistamine in potentiating the narcotic activity are also discussed. Physicians, drug abuse counselors, and others should be aware of the abuse potential and pulmonary damage which can result from the intravenous use of this drug combination.", "PMID": 455920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11920", "title": "Infections of wounds and soft tissues.", "content": "Reduction of bacterial dose and support of host defense mechanisms are paramount in the prevention of infections. When infection is established, aggressive search for its cause and extent is necessary. Vigorous nonoperative (antibiotic, nutritional) and operative therapies are needed to eradicate infection and to salvage life and limb.", "contents": "Infections of wounds and soft tissues. Reduction of bacterial dose and support of host defense mechanisms are paramount in the prevention of infections. When infection is established, aggressive search for its cause and extent is necessary. Vigorous nonoperative (antibiotic, nutritional) and operative therapies are needed to eradicate infection and to salvage life and limb.", "PMID": 455927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11921", "title": "Postoperative abdominal infections.", "content": "Infectious complications remain an important source of postoperative morbidity and mortality. The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these problems can be extremely taxing, and skillful clinical judgment and surgery can frequently make the difference between survival or death.", "contents": "Postoperative abdominal infections. Infectious complications remain an important source of postoperative morbidity and mortality. The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these problems can be extremely taxing, and skillful clinical judgment and surgery can frequently make the difference between survival or death.", "PMID": 455928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11922", "title": "Dissolution of cobalt from hard metal alloys by cutting fluids.", "content": "On grinding hard metal alloys containing cobalt, the dissolution of cobalt during 5 days was studied for nine commercial cutting fluids. After 1 day, a major part of the cobalt liberated from the material ground is found in solution. This percentage decreases when grinding is continued using the same coolant fluid. Only a small fraction of the cobalt is found in particles in the circulating fluid. The bulk must be in the sediment in the storage tank, where it does no harm to the workers' skin. The final concentration of cobalt found in some fluids may be hazardous.", "contents": "Dissolution of cobalt from hard metal alloys by cutting fluids. On grinding hard metal alloys containing cobalt, the dissolution of cobalt during 5 days was studied for nine commercial cutting fluids. After 1 day, a major part of the cobalt liberated from the material ground is found in solution. This percentage decreases when grinding is continued using the same coolant fluid. Only a small fraction of the cobalt is found in particles in the circulating fluid. The bulk must be in the sediment in the storage tank, where it does no harm to the workers' skin. The final concentration of cobalt found in some fluids may be hazardous.", "PMID": 455958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11923", "title": "Allergenic nature of Parthenium hysterophorus.", "content": "Parthenin has been reported as the active allergen in Parthenium hysterophorus contact sensitivity. A study was carried out to test various chemical fractions of the plant for isolating and identifying the exact allergens. Two additional sesquiterpene lactones apart from parthenin have been shown to be allergenically active. Structures of these sesquiterpenoids are presented. Photopatch tests do not indicate a photosensitizing capacity for these compounds.", "contents": "Allergenic nature of Parthenium hysterophorus. Parthenin has been reported as the active allergen in Parthenium hysterophorus contact sensitivity. A study was carried out to test various chemical fractions of the plant for isolating and identifying the exact allergens. Two additional sesquiterpene lactones apart from parthenin have been shown to be allergenically active. Structures of these sesquiterpenoids are presented. Photopatch tests do not indicate a photosensitizing capacity for these compounds.", "PMID": 455959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11924", "title": "Allergy to lanolin.", "content": "The purpose of the present study was to compare the frequency of lanolin allergy during two periods and to assess the adequacy of testing with one standard allergen. Among 1230 consecutive patients with eczema who were standard patch tested, 33 (2.7%), 21 females and 12 males, gave a positive reaction to wool alcohols. Among 899 consecutive patients with eczema standard patch testd and also tested with the lanolin derivatives hydrogenated lanolin 30% in soft yellow paraffin, Amerchol L 101, and a mixture of lanolin derivatives, 60 patients (6.6%), 48 females and 12 males, gave a positive reaction to lanolin and/or its derivatives. The results show that testing with one standard lanolin allergen is inadequate for detecting lanolin allergy.", "contents": "Allergy to lanolin. The purpose of the present study was to compare the frequency of lanolin allergy during two periods and to assess the adequacy of testing with one standard allergen. Among 1230 consecutive patients with eczema who were standard patch tested, 33 (2.7%), 21 females and 12 males, gave a positive reaction to wool alcohols. Among 899 consecutive patients with eczema standard patch testd and also tested with the lanolin derivatives hydrogenated lanolin 30% in soft yellow paraffin, Amerchol L 101, and a mixture of lanolin derivatives, 60 patients (6.6%), 48 females and 12 males, gave a positive reaction to lanolin and/or its derivatives. The results show that testing with one standard lanolin allergen is inadequate for detecting lanolin allergy.", "PMID": 455960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11925", "title": "Nickel dermatitis provoked by buttons in blue jeans.", "content": "A total of 79 nickel-sensitive patients (65 women, 14 men) were examined with regard to a present or past eczema corresponding to contact with metallic buttons in blue jeans; 63% of the women and 64% of the men had or had had eczema of this kind. Among 40% of the women below 30 years this was the primary site of manifestation. The seriousness of this sensitivity is illustrated by the fact that two-thirds of the nickel sensitive patients with button dermatitis had or had had eczema of the hands. The conclusion is that blue jean buttons should be made of a material which does not contain nickel, for instance zinc alloys which are presently used for some metallic buttons, or they should be designed in such a way that the button does not directly contact the skin.", "contents": "Nickel dermatitis provoked by buttons in blue jeans. A total of 79 nickel-sensitive patients (65 women, 14 men) were examined with regard to a present or past eczema corresponding to contact with metallic buttons in blue jeans; 63% of the women and 64% of the men had or had had eczema of this kind. Among 40% of the women below 30 years this was the primary site of manifestation. The seriousness of this sensitivity is illustrated by the fact that two-thirds of the nickel sensitive patients with button dermatitis had or had had eczema of the hands. The conclusion is that blue jean buttons should be made of a material which does not contain nickel, for instance zinc alloys which are presently used for some metallic buttons, or they should be designed in such a way that the button does not directly contact the skin.", "PMID": 455961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11926", "title": "Cumulative effect of surfactants on cutaneous horny layers: lysosome labilizing action.", "content": "In order to analyze the role of various surfactants in the abnormal desquamation process of the epidermis in keratodermia type hand dermatitis, the lysosome labilizing effect of surfactants has been investigated by measuring the release of enzymes from lysosomes in vitro using spectrophotometric and gel chromatographic techniques. It has been found that the labilizing effect of surfactants decreases in the order of cationic, anionic, and nonionic surfactants and varies with its alkyl chain length. The relationship of the labilization and skin roughness inducing effect is also discussed.", "contents": "Cumulative effect of surfactants on cutaneous horny layers: lysosome labilizing action. In order to analyze the role of various surfactants in the abnormal desquamation process of the epidermis in keratodermia type hand dermatitis, the lysosome labilizing effect of surfactants has been investigated by measuring the release of enzymes from lysosomes in vitro using spectrophotometric and gel chromatographic techniques. It has been found that the labilizing effect of surfactants decreases in the order of cationic, anionic, and nonionic surfactants and varies with its alkyl chain length. The relationship of the labilization and skin roughness inducing effect is also discussed.", "PMID": 455962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11927", "title": "Nylon stocking dermatitis. An unusual example.", "content": "We report herein a woman sensitive to nylon stockings of only brown or tan shade. Her situation is interesting for several reasons: she does not react to paraphenylediamine and she reacts to red and yellow dyes, but not to blue or the finish; however, when finish is applied to dyed blanks (red, yellow, or blue) she reacts vigorously to all three. We suspect the finish reacts with the dyes to either expose or produce an antigen previously not available to the skin.", "contents": "Nylon stocking dermatitis. An unusual example. We report herein a woman sensitive to nylon stockings of only brown or tan shade. Her situation is interesting for several reasons: she does not react to paraphenylediamine and she reacts to red and yellow dyes, but not to blue or the finish; however, when finish is applied to dyed blanks (red, yellow, or blue) she reacts vigorously to all three. We suspect the finish reacts with the dyes to either expose or produce an antigen previously not available to the skin.", "PMID": 455963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11928", "title": "Irritant and allergic reactions to topically applied Micatin cream.", "content": "Miconazole nitrate (Micatin cream) is a potent antifungal agent. Few side effects have been reported with topical application. We report on 10 patients who exhibited an intolerance to topical use of this drug. Most of the reactions were irritant in nature but in two instances, an allergic contact dermatitis was observed. Patch tests were positive to the cream base.", "contents": "Irritant and allergic reactions to topically applied Micatin cream. Miconazole nitrate (Micatin cream) is a potent antifungal agent. Few side effects have been reported with topical application. We report on 10 patients who exhibited an intolerance to topical use of this drug. Most of the reactions were irritant in nature but in two instances, an allergic contact dermatitis was observed. Patch tests were positive to the cream base.", "PMID": 455964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11929", "title": "Does occupational exposure to glass-fibres increase the general skin reactivity to irritants?", "content": "A total of 33 workers at a glass-wool factory were tested (patch tests with glass-fibres and chemical irritants, epicutaneous tests with Trafuril and intracutaneous tests with histamine) before starting to work at the factory and then re-tested after at least 4 weeks of exposure to glass-fibres. No statistically significant differences in the intensity of the skin reactions before and after exposure were found. Thus no general increased irritancy of the normal skin was induced by the continuous exposure to glass-fibres.", "contents": "Does occupational exposure to glass-fibres increase the general skin reactivity to irritants? A total of 33 workers at a glass-wool factory were tested (patch tests with glass-fibres and chemical irritants, epicutaneous tests with Trafuril and intracutaneous tests with histamine) before starting to work at the factory and then re-tested after at least 4 weeks of exposure to glass-fibres. No statistically significant differences in the intensity of the skin reactions before and after exposure were found. Thus no general increased irritancy of the normal skin was induced by the continuous exposure to glass-fibres.", "PMID": 455965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11930", "title": "Contact allergy to lidocaine.", "content": "Two cases of contact allergy to lidocaine are reported. They also reacted to chemically related anesthetics of the amide type: one to bupivacaine, mepivacaine and prilocaine and the other to mepivacaine only. The patients also reacted to the chemically nonrelated cincaine, an anesthetic of the ester type. The lidocaine metabolites o-toluidine and mxylidine gave negative reactions.", "contents": "Contact allergy to lidocaine. Two cases of contact allergy to lidocaine are reported. They also reacted to chemically related anesthetics of the amide type: one to bupivacaine, mepivacaine and prilocaine and the other to mepivacaine only. The patients also reacted to the chemically nonrelated cincaine, an anesthetic of the ester type. The lidocaine metabolites o-toluidine and mxylidine gave negative reactions.", "PMID": 455966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11931", "title": "Spermatozoa repellent as a contraceptive.", "content": "Early report by Kopp et al. have demonstrated that p-nitrophenyl-glycerol (PNPG) is an effective antiswarming agent in Proteus and that this inhibition may have been caused by PNPG interfering with the negative chemotaxis mechanism in the organism. With an inverted capillary assay, designed to test the motility response of rat epididymal spermatozoa to various suspending conditions including those exposed to chemical gradient, PNPG was shown in this study to exhibit an inhibitory effect at slightly higher than 10(-5) M. Moreover, this inhibitory effect appears to have stemmed from spermatozoa being repelled by PNPG as indicated by the observation that significantly less spermatozoa swim into a gradient of PNPG. The possibility of using spermatozoa repellents as contraceptives is discussed.", "contents": "Spermatozoa repellent as a contraceptive. Early report by Kopp et al. have demonstrated that p-nitrophenyl-glycerol (PNPG) is an effective antiswarming agent in Proteus and that this inhibition may have been caused by PNPG interfering with the negative chemotaxis mechanism in the organism. With an inverted capillary assay, designed to test the motility response of rat epididymal spermatozoa to various suspending conditions including those exposed to chemical gradient, PNPG was shown in this study to exhibit an inhibitory effect at slightly higher than 10(-5) M. Moreover, this inhibitory effect appears to have stemmed from spermatozoa being repelled by PNPG as indicated by the observation that significantly less spermatozoa swim into a gradient of PNPG. The possibility of using spermatozoa repellents as contraceptives is discussed.", "PMID": 455977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11932", "title": "Presence of elevated circulating levels of LH during the pre-menstrual period in some copper IUD users and the possibility of their confusion with hCG.", "content": "A heterologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) capable of discriminating between LH and hCG was used to measure LH levels in sera obtained during the pre- and post-menstrual periods from 80 women bearing copper intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUD). hCG levels in these samples were also estimated by use of a homologous beta-hCG radioimmunoassay and a radioligand-receptor assay. Only two IUD users during the pre-menstrual period had detectable, but low hCG levels. However, LH levels, as estimated by specific RIA, in the serum of these two women were elevated to a level that would cause detection at low levels in the hCG assays. The data thus provide direct evidence to indicate that the positive hCG levels observed by others during the pre-menstrual period in some copper IUD users could be due to the interference in hCG assays by elevated LH.", "contents": "Presence of elevated circulating levels of LH during the pre-menstrual period in some copper IUD users and the possibility of their confusion with hCG. A heterologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) capable of discriminating between LH and hCG was used to measure LH levels in sera obtained during the pre- and post-menstrual periods from 80 women bearing copper intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUD). hCG levels in these samples were also estimated by use of a homologous beta-hCG radioimmunoassay and a radioligand-receptor assay. Only two IUD users during the pre-menstrual period had detectable, but low hCG levels. However, LH levels, as estimated by specific RIA, in the serum of these two women were elevated to a level that would cause detection at low levels in the hCG assays. The data thus provide direct evidence to indicate that the positive hCG levels observed by others during the pre-menstrual period in some copper IUD users could be due to the interference in hCG assays by elevated LH.", "PMID": 455978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11933", "title": "Effects of RMI 12,936 on some reproductive processes in the female golden hamster.", "content": "A single subcutaneous injection of 2 mg RMI 12,936 (17 beta-hydroxy-7 alpha-methylandrost-5-en-3-one) given a day after estrus disrupted estrous cycle for over 30 days and inhibited ovulation in 100 percent of treated Golden hamsters. Administration of RMI 12,936 (2 mg) on Day 6 of pregnancy caused termination of pregnancy within 4 days of treatment. In association with the termination of pregnancy was a significant reduction in the concentrations of progesterone and estradiol-17 beta together with an elevated testosterone level. After termination of pregnancy by RMI 12,936, the hamsters remained sexually receptive for 4 weeks but failed to conceive. It is concluded that RMI 12,936 causes termination of pregnancy due to an induction of functional luteolysis.", "contents": "Effects of RMI 12,936 on some reproductive processes in the female golden hamster. A single subcutaneous injection of 2 mg RMI 12,936 (17 beta-hydroxy-7 alpha-methylandrost-5-en-3-one) given a day after estrus disrupted estrous cycle for over 30 days and inhibited ovulation in 100 percent of treated Golden hamsters. Administration of RMI 12,936 (2 mg) on Day 6 of pregnancy caused termination of pregnancy within 4 days of treatment. In association with the termination of pregnancy was a significant reduction in the concentrations of progesterone and estradiol-17 beta together with an elevated testosterone level. After termination of pregnancy by RMI 12,936, the hamsters remained sexually receptive for 4 weeks but failed to conceive. It is concluded that RMI 12,936 causes termination of pregnancy due to an induction of functional luteolysis.", "PMID": 455979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11934", "title": "Endometrial estradiol-17 beta-dehydrogenase activity in women wearing Cu-IUD.", "content": "In order to determine whether inhibition of the endometrial estradiol-17 beta-dehydrogenase activity by Cu++ could be one of the factors accounting for the enhanced contraceptive efficacy of copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUD), the activity of the enzyme was measured in endometrial biopsies from women wearing this device. The levels of enzymatic activity found in these specimens were within the range of controls (women without IUD), e.g. 0.1--0.8 and 7--27 nmol E1 formed/mg protein/h in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, respectively. It is concluded that Cu-IUD does not modify significantly either the activity of endometrial-17 beta-dehydrogenase, an enzyme known to regulate the tissular concentration of estradiol, or its response to the inductive effect of progesterone.", "contents": "Endometrial estradiol-17 beta-dehydrogenase activity in women wearing Cu-IUD. In order to determine whether inhibition of the endometrial estradiol-17 beta-dehydrogenase activity by Cu++ could be one of the factors accounting for the enhanced contraceptive efficacy of copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUD), the activity of the enzyme was measured in endometrial biopsies from women wearing this device. The levels of enzymatic activity found in these specimens were within the range of controls (women without IUD), e.g. 0.1--0.8 and 7--27 nmol E1 formed/mg protein/h in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, respectively. It is concluded that Cu-IUD does not modify significantly either the activity of endometrial-17 beta-dehydrogenase, an enzyme known to regulate the tissular concentration of estradiol, or its response to the inductive effect of progesterone.", "PMID": 455980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11935", "title": "Use and acceptance of the \"paper pill\". A novel approach to oral contraception.", "content": "A randomized, crossover study comparing the acceptance of and attitudes towards two dosage forms of the same oral contraceptive product - a paper presentation and the conventional tablet, was carried out in a network of rural and suburban research centers in the State of Durango, M\u00e9xico. The results failed to show any significant advantage (in terms of acceptability or continuation) of the paper formulation. Although two-thirds of the participants indicated a preference for the conventional tablet, there was a high degree of acceptance of the paper formulation among new oral contraceptive acceptors.", "contents": "Use and acceptance of the \"paper pill\". A novel approach to oral contraception. A randomized, crossover study comparing the acceptance of and attitudes towards two dosage forms of the same oral contraceptive product - a paper presentation and the conventional tablet, was carried out in a network of rural and suburban research centers in the State of Durango, M\u00e9xico. The results failed to show any significant advantage (in terms of acceptability or continuation) of the paper formulation. Although two-thirds of the participants indicated a preference for the conventional tablet, there was a high degree of acceptance of the paper formulation among new oral contraceptive acceptors.", "PMID": 455981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11936", "title": "An improved assay for measuring the antimotility activity of chemical agents towards spermatozoa.", "content": "An assay which allows relatively precise determination of the minimum concentration of test compound required to completely immobilize sperm is described. The use of rectangular cross-section capillaries to contain diluted semen allows facile direct comparison of many individual systems under well-controlled conditions. As a result, simultaneous determination of activity in both saline and serum media is feasible. Using this assay, abrupt loss of motility is observed between adjacent cepillaries differing in test compound concentration by as small a factor as 2 1/3 (1.260).", "contents": "An improved assay for measuring the antimotility activity of chemical agents towards spermatozoa. An assay which allows relatively precise determination of the minimum concentration of test compound required to completely immobilize sperm is described. The use of rectangular cross-section capillaries to contain diluted semen allows facile direct comparison of many individual systems under well-controlled conditions. As a result, simultaneous determination of activity in both saline and serum media is feasible. Using this assay, abrupt loss of motility is observed between adjacent cepillaries differing in test compound concentration by as small a factor as 2 1/3 (1.260).", "PMID": 455982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11937", "title": "Alanine transport across in vitro rabbit vagina.", "content": "Transmural flux of alanine across the vaginal epithelium of the rabbit is a specialized mechanism. There is a net serosal to mucosal translocation of the amino acid in the absence of a concentration gradient. Changes in reproductive cycle do not influence this mechanism but, in castrated animals, it is abolished. Transport properties of vaginal epithelium is important because of increasing utilization of intravaginal contraceptives.", "contents": "Alanine transport across in vitro rabbit vagina. Transmural flux of alanine across the vaginal epithelium of the rabbit is a specialized mechanism. There is a net serosal to mucosal translocation of the amino acid in the absence of a concentration gradient. Changes in reproductive cycle do not influence this mechanism but, in castrated animals, it is abolished. Transport properties of vaginal epithelium is important because of increasing utilization of intravaginal contraceptives.", "PMID": 455986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11938", "title": "RMI 12,936 and pseudopregnancy in rats.", "content": "RMI 12,936, when injected subcutaneously at a dose of 2 mg, either on Day 6 of psuedopregnancy (PSP-6) or on PSP-6,7 and 8, shortened the duration of PSP from 12.3 +/- 0.3 (control) to 8.3 +/- 0.1 or 8.7 +/- 0.2 days, respectively. During PSP, plasma progesterone (delta 4P) levels in the peripheral plasma showed a trend of decrease by PSP-9 (52.0 +/- 4.6 on PSP-8 to 42.3 +/- 3.1 ng/ml on PSP-9). Administration of RMI 12,936 on PSP-6 resulted in a significant decrease in delta 4P and pregnenolone (delta 5P) within 24 hr after treatment but caused no apparent changes in 20 alpha-dihydroprogesterone (20 alpha-DHP) levels. However, a significant decrease of delta 4P/20 alpha DHP ratio was encountered 24 hr after RMI 12,936 treatment. The persistent occurrence of proestrous smear after PSP termination, but absence of estrous vaginal cytology, might be attributed to the slight estrogenicity of RMI 12,936. After the premature termination of pseudopregnancy induced by RMI 12,936, the female rats were sexually receptive for at least 3 weeks but failed to conceive, suggesting that this compound has a prolonged contraceptive effect.", "contents": "RMI 12,936 and pseudopregnancy in rats. RMI 12,936, when injected subcutaneously at a dose of 2 mg, either on Day 6 of psuedopregnancy (PSP-6) or on PSP-6,7 and 8, shortened the duration of PSP from 12.3 +/- 0.3 (control) to 8.3 +/- 0.1 or 8.7 +/- 0.2 days, respectively. During PSP, plasma progesterone (delta 4P) levels in the peripheral plasma showed a trend of decrease by PSP-9 (52.0 +/- 4.6 on PSP-8 to 42.3 +/- 3.1 ng/ml on PSP-9). Administration of RMI 12,936 on PSP-6 resulted in a significant decrease in delta 4P and pregnenolone (delta 5P) within 24 hr after treatment but caused no apparent changes in 20 alpha-dihydroprogesterone (20 alpha-DHP) levels. However, a significant decrease of delta 4P/20 alpha DHP ratio was encountered 24 hr after RMI 12,936 treatment. The persistent occurrence of proestrous smear after PSP termination, but absence of estrous vaginal cytology, might be attributed to the slight estrogenicity of RMI 12,936. After the premature termination of pseudopregnancy induced by RMI 12,936, the female rats were sexually receptive for at least 3 weeks but failed to conceive, suggesting that this compound has a prolonged contraceptive effect.", "PMID": 455987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11939", "title": "The use of a contraceptive vaginal ring governed by the pattern of individual uterine bleeding.", "content": "Contraceptive vaginal rings (CVR) releasing levonorgestrel and estradiol were used for contraceptive purposes in eight women. They were instructed to remove the CVR for five days only, in the case of bleeding. Three selected subjects were followed by plasma sampling during the first 60 days of treatment. Plasma concentrations of levonorgestrel, progesterone, estradiol and gonadotropins were determined. All subjects kept bleeding records and were controlled clinically in the course of treatment. The subjects were protected an average of 163 days by the CVR. Three subjects used the CVR 170--180 days without removing it and two subjects had to remove the CVR only once. Two subjects experienced quite regular bleedings, and metrorrhagic bleeding was present in one case. No pregnancies were observed during the follow-up period of 1304 days. Clinical examination revealed no pathological findings. The vaginal mucosa tolerated the treatment well. Out of those subjects who were followed by plasma sampling, pituitary suppression was more marked in the subject with continuous use of CVR.", "contents": "The use of a contraceptive vaginal ring governed by the pattern of individual uterine bleeding. Contraceptive vaginal rings (CVR) releasing levonorgestrel and estradiol were used for contraceptive purposes in eight women. They were instructed to remove the CVR for five days only, in the case of bleeding. Three selected subjects were followed by plasma sampling during the first 60 days of treatment. Plasma concentrations of levonorgestrel, progesterone, estradiol and gonadotropins were determined. All subjects kept bleeding records and were controlled clinically in the course of treatment. The subjects were protected an average of 163 days by the CVR. Three subjects used the CVR 170--180 days without removing it and two subjects had to remove the CVR only once. Two subjects experienced quite regular bleedings, and metrorrhagic bleeding was present in one case. No pregnancies were observed during the follow-up period of 1304 days. Clinical examination revealed no pathological findings. The vaginal mucosa tolerated the treatment well. Out of those subjects who were followed by plasma sampling, pituitary suppression was more marked in the subject with continuous use of CVR.", "PMID": 455988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11940", "title": "Investigations of pharmacokinetics of ethinyloestradiol to specific consideration of a possible first-pass effect in women.", "content": "Ethinyloestradiol-3H was given intravenously and orally to four and three women, respectively, in a dose of 60 micrograms and 3 mg. To another three female volunteers, 100 micrograms of ethinyloestradiol was administered by both routes in succession. Drug concentration in plasma and total radioactivity in plasma, urine and faeces were measured for different periods of time. Intraindividual comparison of the area under the drug level vs. time curve after intravenous and oral administration of 100 micrograms showed that ethinyloestradiol is subject to an about 60% first-pass effect in women. The time course of ethinyloestradiol concentration in plasma can be described by a 3-compartment model after intravenous injection and by a 2-compartment model after oral administration, because an early disposition phase with a half-life of about 15 minutes only becomes visible after i.v. injection. On an average, the terminal half-life of unchanged ethinyloestradiol level and total radioactivity was calculated to be about 1 day. However, a high variability was found with this parameter as well as with the rate and degree of elimination in urine.", "contents": "Investigations of pharmacokinetics of ethinyloestradiol to specific consideration of a possible first-pass effect in women. Ethinyloestradiol-3H was given intravenously and orally to four and three women, respectively, in a dose of 60 micrograms and 3 mg. To another three female volunteers, 100 micrograms of ethinyloestradiol was administered by both routes in succession. Drug concentration in plasma and total radioactivity in plasma, urine and faeces were measured for different periods of time. Intraindividual comparison of the area under the drug level vs. time curve after intravenous and oral administration of 100 micrograms showed that ethinyloestradiol is subject to an about 60% first-pass effect in women. The time course of ethinyloestradiol concentration in plasma can be described by a 3-compartment model after intravenous injection and by a 2-compartment model after oral administration, because an early disposition phase with a half-life of about 15 minutes only becomes visible after i.v. injection. On an average, the terminal half-life of unchanged ethinyloestradiol level and total radioactivity was calculated to be about 1 day. However, a high variability was found with this parameter as well as with the rate and degree of elimination in urine.", "PMID": 455989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11941", "title": "Hematological and biochemical values of thoroughbred foals in the first six months of life.", "content": "Hematological and biochemical parameters in five Thoroughbred foals during the first six months of life are reported. The samples were analyzed for red blood cell, packed cell volume, hemoglobin, platelet, white blood cell, absolute number for leukocytes, and erythrocyte fragility and serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, icterus index unit, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, nonprotein nitrogen, blood glucose, lacticdehydrogenase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, total protein, albumin, globulin, and A/G. The changes of these parameters are presented in relation to age after birth.", "contents": "Hematological and biochemical values of thoroughbred foals in the first six months of life. Hematological and biochemical parameters in five Thoroughbred foals during the first six months of life are reported. The samples were analyzed for red blood cell, packed cell volume, hemoglobin, platelet, white blood cell, absolute number for leukocytes, and erythrocyte fragility and serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, icterus index unit, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, nonprotein nitrogen, blood glucose, lacticdehydrogenase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, total protein, albumin, globulin, and A/G. The changes of these parameters are presented in relation to age after birth.", "PMID": 455991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11942", "title": "Ulcerative posthitis in bulls in Uruguay.", "content": "Ulcerative posthitis in bulls in Uruguay is described; 1096 bulls in 17 different establishments were examined. The incidence of bulls grazing on improved pasture was 32.9% in those under one year and 80.8% in animals of 18 to 36 months of age. Bulls grazing on natural pasture showed an incidence of 63.5% in adult animals irrespective of age. Histologic characteristics of the preputial lesions were acanthosis, parakeratosis and hyperkeratosis followed by invasion of leukocytes in the epithelium and ulceration. Corynebacterium renale was isolated from 59 of 204 prepuces. Based on the isolation of C. renale, histological lesions and the greater incidence in animals on high planes of nutrition, it is postulated that the lesion is due primarily to production of ammonia following the hydrolization of urea by the organism.", "contents": "Ulcerative posthitis in bulls in Uruguay. Ulcerative posthitis in bulls in Uruguay is described; 1096 bulls in 17 different establishments were examined. The incidence of bulls grazing on improved pasture was 32.9% in those under one year and 80.8% in animals of 18 to 36 months of age. Bulls grazing on natural pasture showed an incidence of 63.5% in adult animals irrespective of age. Histologic characteristics of the preputial lesions were acanthosis, parakeratosis and hyperkeratosis followed by invasion of leukocytes in the epithelium and ulceration. Corynebacterium renale was isolated from 59 of 204 prepuces. Based on the isolation of C. renale, histological lesions and the greater incidence in animals on high planes of nutrition, it is postulated that the lesion is due primarily to production of ammonia following the hydrolization of urea by the organism.", "PMID": 455992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11943", "title": "Diagnosis and treatment of peritonitis caused by a larval cestode Mesocestoides spp., in a dog.", "content": "Infection of the peritoneal cavity with cestode larvae, presumptively diagnosed as tetrathyridia of the genus Mesocestoides, was found by exploratory celiotomy in a dog with clinical signs consisting of episodic anorexia, vomiting, and depression. Lymphopenia and hypoalbuminemia were associated clinicopathologic abnormalities. Dystrophic calcification and midline duodenal displacement were found on abdominal radiographs. Therapy with mebendazole was instituted after recurrence of the initial episodic clinical signs postoperatively. Daily use of mebendazole for intermittent periods of up to 3 months led to remission of gastrointestinal signs for 30 months. However, 17 months after the initial diagnosis, infection of the vaginal tunic of the testicle with similar cestode larvae necessitated castration and removal of the vaginal tunic to the inguinal ring. Mebendazole therapy was reinstituted and continued for 31/2 months postoperatively. The dog was free of clinical signs of infection during and for the 16 months since this period of treatment.", "contents": "Diagnosis and treatment of peritonitis caused by a larval cestode Mesocestoides spp., in a dog. Infection of the peritoneal cavity with cestode larvae, presumptively diagnosed as tetrathyridia of the genus Mesocestoides, was found by exploratory celiotomy in a dog with clinical signs consisting of episodic anorexia, vomiting, and depression. Lymphopenia and hypoalbuminemia were associated clinicopathologic abnormalities. Dystrophic calcification and midline duodenal displacement were found on abdominal radiographs. Therapy with mebendazole was instituted after recurrence of the initial episodic clinical signs postoperatively. Daily use of mebendazole for intermittent periods of up to 3 months led to remission of gastrointestinal signs for 30 months. However, 17 months after the initial diagnosis, infection of the vaginal tunic of the testicle with similar cestode larvae necessitated castration and removal of the vaginal tunic to the inguinal ring. Mebendazole therapy was reinstituted and continued for 31/2 months postoperatively. The dog was free of clinical signs of infection during and for the 16 months since this period of treatment.", "PMID": 455993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11944", "title": "Intestinal calcium absorption and bone morphology in magnesium deficient chicks.", "content": "Calcium absorption was measured by 47Ca disappearance from ligated duodenal loops and 47Ca uptake by tibiae in chicks fed diets containing one of four levels of Mg for two weeks. The diets, otherwise identical, contained 88 (group 1), 150 (group 2), 200 (group 3) and 1000 (group 4) ppm Mg. There were no statistically significant differences in 47Ca absorption. Mucosal CaBP and intestinal alkaline phosphatase were slightly, but not significantly, elevated in the Mg depleted chicks in groups 1 and 2 compared to groups 3 and 4. Microscopic examination of the tibiae showed marked alterations in morphology in chicks fed the 88 ppm Mg diet. The thickness of the epiphyseal plate was reduced, and the morphologic signs of osteolysis and chondrolysis, normally observed in the metaphysis, appeared to be absent. The mid-diaphysis was thickened and showed marked reduction in both osteoblast and osteocytie activity. Blood calcium levels were significantly reduced in the Mg deficient chicks. It was concluded that Mg depletion in chicks altered Ca homeostasis primarily by changing bone structure and function.", "contents": "Intestinal calcium absorption and bone morphology in magnesium deficient chicks. Calcium absorption was measured by 47Ca disappearance from ligated duodenal loops and 47Ca uptake by tibiae in chicks fed diets containing one of four levels of Mg for two weeks. The diets, otherwise identical, contained 88 (group 1), 150 (group 2), 200 (group 3) and 1000 (group 4) ppm Mg. There were no statistically significant differences in 47Ca absorption. Mucosal CaBP and intestinal alkaline phosphatase were slightly, but not significantly, elevated in the Mg depleted chicks in groups 1 and 2 compared to groups 3 and 4. Microscopic examination of the tibiae showed marked alterations in morphology in chicks fed the 88 ppm Mg diet. The thickness of the epiphyseal plate was reduced, and the morphologic signs of osteolysis and chondrolysis, normally observed in the metaphysis, appeared to be absent. The mid-diaphysis was thickened and showed marked reduction in both osteoblast and osteocytie activity. Blood calcium levels were significantly reduced in the Mg deficient chicks. It was concluded that Mg depletion in chicks altered Ca homeostasis primarily by changing bone structure and function.", "PMID": 455995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11945", "title": "Staff attitudes towards the care of the critically ill in the medical intensive care unit.", "content": "In an attempt to study the basis for conflict and tension surrounding decision making in ICU settings, a questionnaire was used to examine staff attitudes in a newly opened medical ICU in four major areas: (1) ethical issues; (2) decision-making process; (3) communications; and (4) emotional reactions of staff. All of the 36 house officers and 32 of 34 nurses (all RNs) completed the questionnaire. Results showed there was no monolithic nursing as opposed to physician position on any issue. Futhermore, professional role exerted a more profound influence on attitudes than gender or religious background. There was remarkable agreement between physician and nurse groups on ethical issues. However, nurses were less satisfied with the decision-making process and communication in the medical ICU and were more aware than physicians of their own and other's emotional reactions. The results suggested four ways to reduce tension in the medical ICU: (1) frankly recognize the inevitability of conflict and tension in a system where physicians have ultimate authority; (2) avoid perpetuating stereotypes; (3) maximize the continuity of physician care; and (4) maximize communication between and within professional groups.", "contents": "Staff attitudes towards the care of the critically ill in the medical intensive care unit. In an attempt to study the basis for conflict and tension surrounding decision making in ICU settings, a questionnaire was used to examine staff attitudes in a newly opened medical ICU in four major areas: (1) ethical issues; (2) decision-making process; (3) communications; and (4) emotional reactions of staff. All of the 36 house officers and 32 of 34 nurses (all RNs) completed the questionnaire. Results showed there was no monolithic nursing as opposed to physician position on any issue. Futhermore, professional role exerted a more profound influence on attitudes than gender or religious background. There was remarkable agreement between physician and nurse groups on ethical issues. However, nurses were less satisfied with the decision-making process and communication in the medical ICU and were more aware than physicians of their own and other's emotional reactions. The results suggested four ways to reduce tension in the medical ICU: (1) frankly recognize the inevitability of conflict and tension in a system where physicians have ultimate authority; (2) avoid perpetuating stereotypes; (3) maximize the continuity of physician care; and (4) maximize communication between and within professional groups.", "PMID": 455996} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11946", "title": "Patterns of ventilation in postoperative and acutely ill patients.", "content": "Acutely ill patients commonly increase minute ventilation (V) to varying degrees. The pattern of breathing utilized to increase V was analyzed in normal subjects and acutely ill surgical patients. V = tidal volume (VT) x frequency (f), or V = inspiratory flow x (TI/TTOT, inspiratory time/total cycle time). CO2 inhalation and exercise were used to induce supine hyperventilation in normal subjects. This was compared to hyperventilation in acutely ill surgical patients. Measurements were made of O2 consumption, CO2 production, V, VT, f, inspiratory flow, TI, and TTOT. With small increases in V (up to twice control), normal subjects increased inspiratory flow and TI/TTOT with both CO2 and exercise. CO2 inhalation increased VT with no change in f, while exercise increased both VT and f. When V increased beyond twice control, TI/TTOT remained constant and increases in inspiratory flow accounted for the entire increase in V. In acutely ill patients with increased V, average f was elevated and VT decreased, but there was no constant relationship of f and VT with increasing V. However, TI/TTOT was relatively constant at 0.40- 0.46; therefore, in order to increase V, inspiratory flow had to increase! Patients also showed a tendency to breathe at a relatively fixed VT while normal subjects did not show this phenomenon, even with increases of up to 3 times control V. Continuous, rapid analysis of gas exchange and breathing patterns holds promise for early detection of patients with V inappropriate to metabolic demands, and serves as a sensitive indicator of abnormal patterns used by acutely ill patients to increase V.", "contents": "Patterns of ventilation in postoperative and acutely ill patients. Acutely ill patients commonly increase minute ventilation (V) to varying degrees. The pattern of breathing utilized to increase V was analyzed in normal subjects and acutely ill surgical patients. V = tidal volume (VT) x frequency (f), or V = inspiratory flow x (TI/TTOT, inspiratory time/total cycle time). CO2 inhalation and exercise were used to induce supine hyperventilation in normal subjects. This was compared to hyperventilation in acutely ill surgical patients. Measurements were made of O2 consumption, CO2 production, V, VT, f, inspiratory flow, TI, and TTOT. With small increases in V (up to twice control), normal subjects increased inspiratory flow and TI/TTOT with both CO2 and exercise. CO2 inhalation increased VT with no change in f, while exercise increased both VT and f. When V increased beyond twice control, TI/TTOT remained constant and increases in inspiratory flow accounted for the entire increase in V. In acutely ill patients with increased V, average f was elevated and VT decreased, but there was no constant relationship of f and VT with increasing V. However, TI/TTOT was relatively constant at 0.40- 0.46; therefore, in order to increase V, inspiratory flow had to increase! Patients also showed a tendency to breathe at a relatively fixed VT while normal subjects did not show this phenomenon, even with increases of up to 3 times control V. Continuous, rapid analysis of gas exchange and breathing patterns holds promise for early detection of patients with V inappropriate to metabolic demands, and serves as a sensitive indicator of abnormal patterns used by acutely ill patients to increase V.", "PMID": 455997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11947", "title": "Shunt effect of carboxyhemoglobin.", "content": "Estimation of intrapulmonary blood shunt fraction requires accurate evaluation of pulmonary capillary, arterial, and mixed venous oxygen contents. The presence of carboxyhemoglobin, as well as methemoglobin and sulfhemoglobin, may lead to large errors in the calculated intrapulmonary blood shunt fraction. The errors are most pronounced at low values of carboxyhemoglobin and low values of true intrapulmonary shunt fraction.", "contents": "Shunt effect of carboxyhemoglobin. Estimation of intrapulmonary blood shunt fraction requires accurate evaluation of pulmonary capillary, arterial, and mixed venous oxygen contents. The presence of carboxyhemoglobin, as well as methemoglobin and sulfhemoglobin, may lead to large errors in the calculated intrapulmonary blood shunt fraction. The errors are most pronounced at low values of carboxyhemoglobin and low values of true intrapulmonary shunt fraction.", "PMID": 455999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11948", "title": "Acute renal failure after ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: an improved clinical prognosis.", "content": "Eleven cases of renal failure associated with resection of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and requiring hemodialysis are reported. Previously described series have emphasized the extremely high mortality rate in such patients. In our clinical experience, however, 8 of 11 consecutively treated patients with this clinical problem survived and recovered adequate renal function. We believe that these favorable results can be largely explained by the low incidence of pulmonary infection in our patients as opposed to the frequent occurrence of pulmonary sepsis in other reported series. The reduction in the incidence of pulmonary infection can probably be attributed to the early discontinuance of artificial ventilation after prompt removal of pulmonary edema fluid by intensive hemodialysis ultrafiltration. These survival figures demonstrate that, with appropriate intensive management, full recovery is possible in the majority of patients with acute renal failure complicating ruptured aortic abdominal aneurysm. Our experience serves as a stimulus to render full intensive care support to such patients.", "contents": "Acute renal failure after ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: an improved clinical prognosis. Eleven cases of renal failure associated with resection of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and requiring hemodialysis are reported. Previously described series have emphasized the extremely high mortality rate in such patients. In our clinical experience, however, 8 of 11 consecutively treated patients with this clinical problem survived and recovered adequate renal function. We believe that these favorable results can be largely explained by the low incidence of pulmonary infection in our patients as opposed to the frequent occurrence of pulmonary sepsis in other reported series. The reduction in the incidence of pulmonary infection can probably be attributed to the early discontinuance of artificial ventilation after prompt removal of pulmonary edema fluid by intensive hemodialysis ultrafiltration. These survival figures demonstrate that, with appropriate intensive management, full recovery is possible in the majority of patients with acute renal failure complicating ruptured aortic abdominal aneurysm. Our experience serves as a stimulus to render full intensive care support to such patients.", "PMID": 456000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11949", "title": "Renal dysfunction in the surgical patient: maintenance of high output state with furosemide.", "content": "A sustained loss of concentrating ability (renal dysfunction) was identified in 29% of a patient population judged to be at risk for this problem on the basis of clinical criteria. Six patients in this group fulfilled previously developed criteria for early renal failure, i.e., free water clearance CH2O between +15 and -15 ml/hr and no change after furosemide. All of these patients were maintained in the high urinary output state with furosemide. Sequential determinations of free water clearance are a sensitive means of monitoring renal function which permits early identification and therapy of patients with renal vasomotor nephropathy.", "contents": "Renal dysfunction in the surgical patient: maintenance of high output state with furosemide. A sustained loss of concentrating ability (renal dysfunction) was identified in 29% of a patient population judged to be at risk for this problem on the basis of clinical criteria. Six patients in this group fulfilled previously developed criteria for early renal failure, i.e., free water clearance CH2O between +15 and -15 ml/hr and no change after furosemide. All of these patients were maintained in the high urinary output state with furosemide. Sequential determinations of free water clearance are a sensitive means of monitoring renal function which permits early identification and therapy of patients with renal vasomotor nephropathy.", "PMID": 456001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11950", "title": "Intensive care nursing requirements: resource allocation according to patient status.", "content": "Intensive care nursing allocation seemingly has been a negotiated solution to a never ending battle: an arbitrary nursing/patient ratio. To correct this deficit, a prospective study was proposed to quantitate the time duration of sufficient intensive care to match the severity of illness. A comprehensive list of all nursing actions was compiled and timed. Thereafter, frequencies were observed according to global classifications: serious, critical, or crisis. A simple classification system separates the hourly requirement: serious = 2:1 patient/nurse ratio, critical = 1.0:0.75 full time nursing, and crisis = 1.0:1.2 patient/nurse ratio (or single nurse requires assistance). The increased requirements are created by increased need for ICU skills: vital signs = 1 hour for serious patients, 4 hours for critical, and a maximum of 10 hours for crisis patients (90% crisis patients has pulmonary artery and arterial catheters). Other categories of increased nursing time reflect ventilatory support, increased number of continuous and intermittent medications, etc. Global assessment (serious, critical, or crisis patient status) can be quantitated in terms of nursing hours actually required. Objective, rational, and variable patient/nurse ratios can be easily and accurately achieved in this manner. Staffing requirements and allocation of positions can be objectively quantitated.", "contents": "Intensive care nursing requirements: resource allocation according to patient status. Intensive care nursing allocation seemingly has been a negotiated solution to a never ending battle: an arbitrary nursing/patient ratio. To correct this deficit, a prospective study was proposed to quantitate the time duration of sufficient intensive care to match the severity of illness. A comprehensive list of all nursing actions was compiled and timed. Thereafter, frequencies were observed according to global classifications: serious, critical, or crisis. A simple classification system separates the hourly requirement: serious = 2:1 patient/nurse ratio, critical = 1.0:0.75 full time nursing, and crisis = 1.0:1.2 patient/nurse ratio (or single nurse requires assistance). The increased requirements are created by increased need for ICU skills: vital signs = 1 hour for serious patients, 4 hours for critical, and a maximum of 10 hours for crisis patients (90% crisis patients has pulmonary artery and arterial catheters). Other categories of increased nursing time reflect ventilatory support, increased number of continuous and intermittent medications, etc. Global assessment (serious, critical, or crisis patient status) can be quantitated in terms of nursing hours actually required. Objective, rational, and variable patient/nurse ratios can be easily and accurately achieved in this manner. Staffing requirements and allocation of positions can be objectively quantitated.", "PMID": 456002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11951", "title": "Airway management in the thrombocytopenic cancer patient with acute respiratory failure.", "content": "Prolonged endotracheal intubation has been the preferred approach when ventilatory support is required in thrombocytopenic cancer patients, because of concern for the possible hemorrhagic complications of tracheostomy. During the past 3 years, the authors have treated over 100 patients who developed acute respiratory failure while being treated for myeloproliferative or lymphoproliferative malignancies. This experience has suggested a greater incidence of potentially lethal complications among thrombocytopenic patients with prolonged endotracheal intubation than with early tracheostomy, which is now preferred in the critical care facility of this institution. Tracheostomy using electrocautery and careful technique has been performed without complication in 35 patients whose platelet counts were as low as 5,000-20,000/mm3.", "contents": "Airway management in the thrombocytopenic cancer patient with acute respiratory failure. Prolonged endotracheal intubation has been the preferred approach when ventilatory support is required in thrombocytopenic cancer patients, because of concern for the possible hemorrhagic complications of tracheostomy. During the past 3 years, the authors have treated over 100 patients who developed acute respiratory failure while being treated for myeloproliferative or lymphoproliferative malignancies. This experience has suggested a greater incidence of potentially lethal complications among thrombocytopenic patients with prolonged endotracheal intubation than with early tracheostomy, which is now preferred in the critical care facility of this institution. Tracheostomy using electrocautery and careful technique has been performed without complication in 35 patients whose platelet counts were as low as 5,000-20,000/mm3.", "PMID": 456003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11952", "title": "Severe thrombocytopenia probably due to acute folic acid deficiency.", "content": "Thirteen patients with significant hemorrhage, severe thrombocytopenia, and megaloblastic bone marrows are described. Unusual features of this problem included its acute onset, frequent absence of the typical peripheral blood changes of megaloblastic anemia, normal serum B12 levels, and serum folates which were often not clearly abnormal. Most patients were critically ill and common clinical features included reduced dietary intake, renal failure, renal dialysis, the postoperative state, and sepsis. These clinical features, the laboratory findings, and a platelet increase in most patients after folate therapy lead to the conclusion that this problem is probably due to acute folic acid deficiency. Possible explanations for the atypical laboratory findings include the acuteness of onset, recent blood transfusion therapy, and impaired folate utilization. This problem may be relatively common. Because of its potential clinical importance, rapid onset, and attendent diagnostic difficulties, prophylactic folic acid is recommended in the clinical setting described.", "contents": "Severe thrombocytopenia probably due to acute folic acid deficiency. Thirteen patients with significant hemorrhage, severe thrombocytopenia, and megaloblastic bone marrows are described. Unusual features of this problem included its acute onset, frequent absence of the typical peripheral blood changes of megaloblastic anemia, normal serum B12 levels, and serum folates which were often not clearly abnormal. Most patients were critically ill and common clinical features included reduced dietary intake, renal failure, renal dialysis, the postoperative state, and sepsis. These clinical features, the laboratory findings, and a platelet increase in most patients after folate therapy lead to the conclusion that this problem is probably due to acute folic acid deficiency. Possible explanations for the atypical laboratory findings include the acuteness of onset, recent blood transfusion therapy, and impaired folate utilization. This problem may be relatively common. Because of its potential clinical importance, rapid onset, and attendent diagnostic difficulties, prophylactic folic acid is recommended in the clinical setting described.", "PMID": 456004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11953", "title": "Method for sampling airway gas.", "content": "We have devised an improved technique for sampling gas from endotracheal airways for mass spectrometer analysis. It is reliable and unobtrusive and is particularly resistant to occlusion of the sampling line by secrections. It has performed well during continuous monitoring of patients in a respiratory ICU.", "contents": "Method for sampling airway gas. We have devised an improved technique for sampling gas from endotracheal airways for mass spectrometer analysis. It is reliable and unobtrusive and is particularly resistant to occlusion of the sampling line by secrections. It has performed well during continuous monitoring of patients in a respiratory ICU.", "PMID": 456006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11954", "title": "Early retransfer: a method of optimal bed utilization of NICU beds.", "content": "To facilitate increased utility of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) beds, we adopted a policy of early discharge (ED) of infants less than 2000 g to the hospital of their birth after recovery from acute illness and when the infant was breathing room air and taking adequate oral feedings. An inservice teaching program at the primary hospitals preceded such policy. In a 24-month period, 446 infants were referred to the NICU. 111 of 446 died; 335 infants survived. 114 of 335 infants were less than 2000 g at birth; 42% (48 of 114) of them were discharged early to the hospital of their birth (ED); 58% were discharged late (LD) to their homes. 59.7% of the ED and 46.3% of the LD required assisted ventilation. Gestational age, birth weight, and final weight at discharge from hospitals were the same in both groups. None of the ED infants developed complications at the hospital of birth after retransfer. The length of NICU stay for LD was significantly higher 40 +/- 6 (p less than 0.001) than the ED; 20 +/- 2.2 days. In addition, a 15% increase in bed utilization was also noted because of ED. We conclude that ED of infants from the NICU 1) increases utilization of beds; 2) decreases the cost of health care; and 3) increases the participation of primary physicians.", "contents": "Early retransfer: a method of optimal bed utilization of NICU beds. To facilitate increased utility of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) beds, we adopted a policy of early discharge (ED) of infants less than 2000 g to the hospital of their birth after recovery from acute illness and when the infant was breathing room air and taking adequate oral feedings. An inservice teaching program at the primary hospitals preceded such policy. In a 24-month period, 446 infants were referred to the NICU. 111 of 446 died; 335 infants survived. 114 of 335 infants were less than 2000 g at birth; 42% (48 of 114) of them were discharged early to the hospital of their birth (ED); 58% were discharged late (LD) to their homes. 59.7% of the ED and 46.3% of the LD required assisted ventilation. Gestational age, birth weight, and final weight at discharge from hospitals were the same in both groups. None of the ED infants developed complications at the hospital of birth after retransfer. The length of NICU stay for LD was significantly higher 40 +/- 6 (p less than 0.001) than the ED; 20 +/- 2.2 days. In addition, a 15% increase in bed utilization was also noted because of ED. We conclude that ED of infants from the NICU 1) increases utilization of beds; 2) decreases the cost of health care; and 3) increases the participation of primary physicians.", "PMID": 456009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11955", "title": "Swan-Ganz catheterization in the critically ill newborn.", "content": "The authors placed Swan-Ganz catheters in 11 preterm and 2 term infants with severe cardiopulmonary distress. The infants ranged in weight from 1100-4000 g. The procedure was performed in the neonatal ICU by jugular venous cutdown. Intracardiac pressures and oxygen saturations were measured in each chamber entered. The authors also evaluated the presence of right to left shunting through the patent ductus arteriosus and assessed the degree of pulmonary arterial hypertension. In 5 hypoxemic infants, the authors found a patent ductus arteriosus with pulmonary hypertension. Intermittent measurement of PAP served as a guide to further therapy. In 2 infants, the unexpected diagnosis of cyanotic congenital heart disease was made. The placement of flow directed pulmonary arterial catheters in critically ill infants can be performed safely at the bedside and can provide useful diagnostic and therapeutic information.", "contents": "Swan-Ganz catheterization in the critically ill newborn. The authors placed Swan-Ganz catheters in 11 preterm and 2 term infants with severe cardiopulmonary distress. The infants ranged in weight from 1100-4000 g. The procedure was performed in the neonatal ICU by jugular venous cutdown. Intracardiac pressures and oxygen saturations were measured in each chamber entered. The authors also evaluated the presence of right to left shunting through the patent ductus arteriosus and assessed the degree of pulmonary arterial hypertension. In 5 hypoxemic infants, the authors found a patent ductus arteriosus with pulmonary hypertension. Intermittent measurement of PAP served as a guide to further therapy. In 2 infants, the unexpected diagnosis of cyanotic congenital heart disease was made. The placement of flow directed pulmonary arterial catheters in critically ill infants can be performed safely at the bedside and can provide useful diagnostic and therapeutic information.", "PMID": 456010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11956", "title": "The significance of facial burns in acute smoke inhalation.", "content": "The medical records of 21 patients with smoke inhalation admitted to a medical ICU (MICU) were reviewed. Of 21 patients, 6 (29%) died. Of 21 patients, 13 (62%) had facial burns and 11 of the 13 (85%) later developed pneumonia. Only 1 of 8 patients (12%) without facial burns developed pneumonia (p less than 0.005). Of the 12 patients with pneumonia, 7 required ventilatory assistance and 6 of the 7 died in the MICU. The authors conclude that the presence of facial burns is associated with the later development of pneumonia in a high percentage of cases. Pneumonia contributes significantly to the high mortality rate. The need for ventilatory assistance in smoke inhalation patients is associated with a poor prognosis.", "contents": "The significance of facial burns in acute smoke inhalation. The medical records of 21 patients with smoke inhalation admitted to a medical ICU (MICU) were reviewed. Of 21 patients, 6 (29%) died. Of 21 patients, 13 (62%) had facial burns and 11 of the 13 (85%) later developed pneumonia. Only 1 of 8 patients (12%) without facial burns developed pneumonia (p less than 0.005). Of the 12 patients with pneumonia, 7 required ventilatory assistance and 6 of the 7 died in the MICU. The authors conclude that the presence of facial burns is associated with the later development of pneumonia in a high percentage of cases. Pneumonia contributes significantly to the high mortality rate. The need for ventilatory assistance in smoke inhalation patients is associated with a poor prognosis.", "PMID": 456011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11957", "title": "Fiberbronchoscopic retrieval of iatrogenically introduced endobronchial foreign body.", "content": "Although the traditional management of aspiration of foreign bodies has been extraction with the open tube bronchoscope, an expanding array of these have now been removed with the flexible bronchofiberscope. Accidental introduction of a foreign body into the tracheobronchial tree is a poorly recognized, but potentially common hazard of topical anesthetic preparation before endotracheal intubation. We demonstrate that this can be safely and rapidly managed by bedside fiberbronchoscopy. Circumstances favoring the use of the fiberbronchoscope for foreign body extraction are suggested.", "contents": "Fiberbronchoscopic retrieval of iatrogenically introduced endobronchial foreign body. Although the traditional management of aspiration of foreign bodies has been extraction with the open tube bronchoscope, an expanding array of these have now been removed with the flexible bronchofiberscope. Accidental introduction of a foreign body into the tracheobronchial tree is a poorly recognized, but potentially common hazard of topical anesthetic preparation before endotracheal intubation. We demonstrate that this can be safely and rapidly managed by bedside fiberbronchoscopy. Circumstances favoring the use of the fiberbronchoscope for foreign body extraction are suggested.", "PMID": 456012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11958", "title": "Disopyramide in pregnancy: a case report.", "content": "Disopyramide (200 mg 8-hourly) was given to a pregnant patient from the 26th week onwards for the treatment of bigeminy and paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia. Labour was spontaneous and normal. Although disopyramide was demonstrated in the foetal blood there was no evidence of congenital abnormality or growth retardation. The drug treated the mother satisfactorily with no apparent ill effects to the child.", "contents": "Disopyramide in pregnancy: a case report. Disopyramide (200 mg 8-hourly) was given to a pregnant patient from the 26th week onwards for the treatment of bigeminy and paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia. Labour was spontaneous and normal. Although disopyramide was demonstrated in the foetal blood there was no evidence of congenital abnormality or growth retardation. The drug treated the mother satisfactorily with no apparent ill effects to the child.", "PMID": 456013} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11959", "title": "Primary postoperative wound infection due to Staphylococcus pyogenes.", "content": "Using S. pyogenes as a tracer organism, an examination of the importance of air-borne infection of clean wounds in the modern, plenum-ventilated operating room has been made. It appears that, for most surgical procedures, additional ultra-clean air installations are not necessary. It has been shown that even if the air is sterile, the skin remains a possible source of infection. This is especially so as far as the patient's skin is concerned. It will remain so, since the skin cannot be sterilized. Indeed, until the ecology of the skin is better understood, rigorous efforts directed toward its disinfection may compromise its inherent defense mechanisms and its protective bacterial flora. It will be argued by some that operating rooms with ultraclean air should be afforded for certain specialized procedures in sugery; for example, those in which prosthetic materials are being implanted or in which the patient's immune mechanisms are depressed. Although not disagreeing with this, I wish to note that the only controlled trial on this aspect of surgery that exists to date shows no advantage for patients randomly apportioned to have hip arthroplasty, either in an isolator or in the same modern operating room but without the isolator. From this experience, I believe that any further trial of this nature, if it is to be controlled to a similar high level, will require very large numbers of patients to show even a marginal advantage for ultraclean air or isolator installations over the modern, plenum-ventilated and meticulously managed operating suite. The verdict on the need to install ultraclean air plant for operating rooms must, therefore, be couched in the third alternative that exists under Scots Law-- \"not proved.\" I suggest the money could be better spent on devising methods to keep skin pathogens out of surgical wounds. Perhaps more urgently, there is a need to discover how to increase the defense mechanisms of the wound milieu to implanted harmful bacteria. There is also a pressing need to improve the ward environment with the aim of diminishing secondary infections of surgical wounds.", "contents": "Primary postoperative wound infection due to Staphylococcus pyogenes. Using S. pyogenes as a tracer organism, an examination of the importance of air-borne infection of clean wounds in the modern, plenum-ventilated operating room has been made. It appears that, for most surgical procedures, additional ultra-clean air installations are not necessary. It has been shown that even if the air is sterile, the skin remains a possible source of infection. This is especially so as far as the patient's skin is concerned. It will remain so, since the skin cannot be sterilized. Indeed, until the ecology of the skin is better understood, rigorous efforts directed toward its disinfection may compromise its inherent defense mechanisms and its protective bacterial flora. It will be argued by some that operating rooms with ultraclean air should be afforded for certain specialized procedures in sugery; for example, those in which prosthetic materials are being implanted or in which the patient's immune mechanisms are depressed. Although not disagreeing with this, I wish to note that the only controlled trial on this aspect of surgery that exists to date shows no advantage for patients randomly apportioned to have hip arthroplasty, either in an isolator or in the same modern operating room but without the isolator. From this experience, I believe that any further trial of this nature, if it is to be controlled to a similar high level, will require very large numbers of patients to show even a marginal advantage for ultraclean air or isolator installations over the modern, plenum-ventilated and meticulously managed operating suite. The verdict on the need to install ultraclean air plant for operating rooms must, therefore, be couched in the third alternative that exists under Scots Law-- \"not proved.\" I suggest the money could be better spent on devising methods to keep skin pathogens out of surgical wounds. Perhaps more urgently, there is a need to discover how to increase the defense mechanisms of the wound milieu to implanted harmful bacteria. There is also a pressing need to improve the ward environment with the aim of diminishing secondary infections of surgical wounds.", "PMID": 456016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11960", "title": "Verrucous ulcerative skin lesions in sarcoidosis. An unusual clinical presentation.", "content": "A twenty-seven year old man with a two year history of sarcoidosis and systemic manifestations of this disease along with verrucous ulcerative skin lesions is presented. Biopsy specimens of the cutaneous lesions showed typical noncaseating granulomas as well as necrotizing granulomatous inflammation. After other possible etiologies were excluded, prednisone therapy was instituted with prompt resolution of the skin lesions, leaving atrophic scars.", "contents": "Verrucous ulcerative skin lesions in sarcoidosis. An unusual clinical presentation. A twenty-seven year old man with a two year history of sarcoidosis and systemic manifestations of this disease along with verrucous ulcerative skin lesions is presented. Biopsy specimens of the cutaneous lesions showed typical noncaseating granulomas as well as necrotizing granulomatous inflammation. After other possible etiologies were excluded, prednisone therapy was instituted with prompt resolution of the skin lesions, leaving atrophic scars.", "PMID": 456024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11961", "title": "Lymphatic complications of manual herpes simplex infection.", "content": "In seven patients with typical recurrent herpes simplex of the hand, lymphatic complications, developed in the arm during periods of herpetic activity. Six of the patients presented with lymphangitis and lymphadenitis. In one patient, persistent lymphedema developed in the involved hand and forearm.", "contents": "Lymphatic complications of manual herpes simplex infection. In seven patients with typical recurrent herpes simplex of the hand, lymphatic complications, developed in the arm during periods of herpetic activity. Six of the patients presented with lymphangitis and lymphadenitis. In one patient, persistent lymphedema developed in the involved hand and forearm.", "PMID": 456025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11962", "title": "Nail bed carcinoma.", "content": "Chronic conditions of the nail bed are frequently seen. Rarely a carcinoma will be present, which can only be diagnosed by a high degree of awareness of its possibility and then by performing a biopsy.", "contents": "Nail bed carcinoma. Chronic conditions of the nail bed are frequently seen. Rarely a carcinoma will be present, which can only be diagnosed by a high degree of awareness of its possibility and then by performing a biopsy.", "PMID": 456026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11963", "title": "Traumatic nodule in surgical scar.", "content": "Presented herein is a report on a patient in whom a hyperkeratotic nodule developed in an abdominal surgical scar, ten months after exploratory laparotomy.", "contents": "Traumatic nodule in surgical scar. Presented herein is a report on a patient in whom a hyperkeratotic nodule developed in an abdominal surgical scar, ten months after exploratory laparotomy.", "PMID": 456027} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11964", "title": "Tetracycline staining of wisdom teeth.", "content": "Tetracycline hydrochloride given by mouth for acne vulgaris was found to be deposited in the amelogenetic region of developing wisdom teeth.", "contents": "Tetracycline staining of wisdom teeth. Tetracycline hydrochloride given by mouth for acne vulgaris was found to be deposited in the amelogenetic region of developing wisdom teeth.", "PMID": 456028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11965", "title": "Subungual malignant melanoma.", "content": "A sixty year old white woman with a history of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome with nail involvement, presented with a marked hyperpigmentation of the terminal phalanx and nail of the right index finger. Two preceding biopsy specimens from the fingertip were interpreted as junction nevus. After amputation of the fingertip and terminal phalanx, the final diagnosis was subungual malignant melanoma. Further amputation of the entire finger and portion of the corresponding metacarpal bone was done as a successful follow-up procedure.", "contents": "Subungual malignant melanoma. A sixty year old white woman with a history of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome with nail involvement, presented with a marked hyperpigmentation of the terminal phalanx and nail of the right index finger. Two preceding biopsy specimens from the fingertip were interpreted as junction nevus. After amputation of the fingertip and terminal phalanx, the final diagnosis was subungual malignant melanoma. Further amputation of the entire finger and portion of the corresponding metacarpal bone was done as a successful follow-up procedure.", "PMID": 456029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11966", "title": "Methotrexate treatment of pityriasis lichenoides and lymphomatoid papulosis.", "content": "Pityriasis lichenoides is a notoriously difficult disease to treat. Three patients with this condition and a fourth with lymphomatoid papulosis have been successfully treated with doses of methotrexate once a week. Toxicity noted during the treatment periods has been minimal.", "contents": "Methotrexate treatment of pityriasis lichenoides and lymphomatoid papulosis. Pityriasis lichenoides is a notoriously difficult disease to treat. Three patients with this condition and a fourth with lymphomatoid papulosis have been successfully treated with doses of methotrexate once a week. Toxicity noted during the treatment periods has been minimal.", "PMID": 456031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11967", "title": "Tinea of the ear mimicking chondritis.", "content": "A case of tinea of the pinna, mistaken for chondritis, is presented. Chondritis should be added to the list of diseases that tinea infection may mimic.", "contents": "Tinea of the ear mimicking chondritis. A case of tinea of the pinna, mistaken for chondritis, is presented. Chondritis should be added to the list of diseases that tinea infection may mimic.", "PMID": 456032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11968", "title": "Infection with hair transplant surgery.", "content": "The problem of infection during hair transplant surgery in one dermatologist's office is described herein. Careful epidemiologic investigation identified the causative organism and its source, and the infection was effectively controlled by the use of \"semi-sterile\" technique. Infection may be more common than generally suspected and it should be considered as a possible cause of otherwise unexplained disappointing results as reflected by decreased numbers of viable hairs per graft.", "contents": "Infection with hair transplant surgery. The problem of infection during hair transplant surgery in one dermatologist's office is described herein. Careful epidemiologic investigation identified the causative organism and its source, and the infection was effectively controlled by the use of \"semi-sterile\" technique. Infection may be more common than generally suspected and it should be considered as a possible cause of otherwise unexplained disappointing results as reflected by decreased numbers of viable hairs per graft.", "PMID": 456033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11969", "title": "Onycholysis secondary to tetracycline hydrochloride.", "content": "A case of onycholysis secondary to the ingestion of tetracycline hydrochloride is reported. The patient was not photosensitive, and the nails returned to normal after withdrawal of the causative drug.", "contents": "Onycholysis secondary to tetracycline hydrochloride. A case of onycholysis secondary to the ingestion of tetracycline hydrochloride is reported. The patient was not photosensitive, and the nails returned to normal after withdrawal of the causative drug.", "PMID": 456035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11970", "title": "Malpractice--in dermatology.", "content": "Among twenty-three types of physicians, dermatologists rate sixth lowest in malpractice risk. With dermatology, the risk of a suit is general; no one doctor or type of dermatologic practice has been shown to bear unusual risk--everyone is susceptible. However, dermatologist who give x-ray therapy or limit their work to cosmetic procedures rate higher. Patients sue because of facial burns or scars, negligent diagnosis, drug reaction, falls in the office, wart removal, and treatment that exceeds the patient's desire at the moment. Care must be exercised in the use of problem drugs such as antineoplastic agents, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, sulfones, vitamin A acid, liquid nitrogen, cantharidin, podophyllin, and fluorescent dyes. Dermatologists are urged to obtain consultation for the benefit of patient and doctor, to maintain good relations with fellow physicians, and to avoid inappropriate criticism of other physicians. Lengthy lists of \"do's\" and \"don'ts\" in patient care are included, and some possible changes in the malpractice situation are listed.", "contents": "Malpractice--in dermatology. Among twenty-three types of physicians, dermatologists rate sixth lowest in malpractice risk. With dermatology, the risk of a suit is general; no one doctor or type of dermatologic practice has been shown to bear unusual risk--everyone is susceptible. However, dermatologist who give x-ray therapy or limit their work to cosmetic procedures rate higher. Patients sue because of facial burns or scars, negligent diagnosis, drug reaction, falls in the office, wart removal, and treatment that exceeds the patient's desire at the moment. Care must be exercised in the use of problem drugs such as antineoplastic agents, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, sulfones, vitamin A acid, liquid nitrogen, cantharidin, podophyllin, and fluorescent dyes. Dermatologists are urged to obtain consultation for the benefit of patient and doctor, to maintain good relations with fellow physicians, and to avoid inappropriate criticism of other physicians. Lengthy lists of \"do's\" and \"don'ts\" in patient care are included, and some possible changes in the malpractice situation are listed.", "PMID": 456036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11971", "title": "Myocardial infarction in dermatomyositis.", "content": "A case of dermatomyositis manifesting electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic changes compatible with an inferior and anterolateral wall myocardial infarction is presented herein. The nonocclusive nature of the heart muscle damage is evidenced by perfectly normal coronary artery angiography. We believe that this is the first reported case of a myocardial infarction pattern apparently due to dermatomyositis.", "contents": "Myocardial infarction in dermatomyositis. A case of dermatomyositis manifesting electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic changes compatible with an inferior and anterolateral wall myocardial infarction is presented herein. The nonocclusive nature of the heart muscle damage is evidenced by perfectly normal coronary artery angiography. We believe that this is the first reported case of a myocardial infarction pattern apparently due to dermatomyositis.", "PMID": 456037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11972", "title": "Fatal pulmonary hemorrhage in Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura.", "content": "An unusual case of an eight year old boy with Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura in whom fatal pulmonary hemorrhage developed resulting from leukoclastic vasculitis of the lungs is presented herein.", "contents": "Fatal pulmonary hemorrhage in Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura. An unusual case of an eight year old boy with Henoch-Sch\u00f6nlein purpura in whom fatal pulmonary hemorrhage developed resulting from leukoclastic vasculitis of the lungs is presented herein.", "PMID": 456038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11973", "title": "A tdic(5;15)(p31;p11) chromosome showing variation for constriction in the centromeric regions in a patient with the cri du chat syndrome.", "content": "Some dicentric chromosomes show only one primary constriction at metaphase and behave in cell division as if they are monocentric. The few previous reports of tdic (translocation dicentric) chromosomes showing one morphologic indicate that among the cells of an individual the same centromere consistently shows the primary constriction. The present case deals with a tdic(5;15)(p13;p11) chromosome that is an exception to this pattern. Scoring 98 GTG-, C-, and QFQ-banded metaphases specifically for primary constrictions revealed 15 (15%) containing a tdic chromosome with a single primary constriction. Among these chromosomes, 8 (8%) were at the chromosome 15 centromere and 7 (7%) were at the chromosome 5 centromere. The remaining 83 (85%) tdic chromosomes showed two primary constrictions. We analyzed a total of 172 metaphases from peripheral blood, and all except 3 (1.7%) contained the tdic chromosome. Among these three cells, the tdic chromosome was broken in two and absent in one, which indicates that there was some unstable separation of this dicentric in cell division. In two metaphases, there was a chromatid gap at the site of one centromere. Possibly, the absence of certain primary constrictions was associated with deletion of centromeres. This mechanism may be a continual source for additional centromere inactivation during the life of this patient. This case demonstrates that for some dicentrics either centromere may become nonfunctional and inactivation can occur more than once within an individual. The karyotype of this patient was 45,XX,tdic(5;15)(p31;p11). Thus, she was monosomic for about 3/4 of the chromosome 5 short arm. Clinically, this infant had a shrill catlike cry and facies of the cri du chat syndrome.", "contents": "A tdic(5;15)(p31;p11) chromosome showing variation for constriction in the centromeric regions in a patient with the cri du chat syndrome. Some dicentric chromosomes show only one primary constriction at metaphase and behave in cell division as if they are monocentric. The few previous reports of tdic (translocation dicentric) chromosomes showing one morphologic indicate that among the cells of an individual the same centromere consistently shows the primary constriction. The present case deals with a tdic(5;15)(p13;p11) chromosome that is an exception to this pattern. Scoring 98 GTG-, C-, and QFQ-banded metaphases specifically for primary constrictions revealed 15 (15%) containing a tdic chromosome with a single primary constriction. Among these chromosomes, 8 (8%) were at the chromosome 15 centromere and 7 (7%) were at the chromosome 5 centromere. The remaining 83 (85%) tdic chromosomes showed two primary constrictions. We analyzed a total of 172 metaphases from peripheral blood, and all except 3 (1.7%) contained the tdic chromosome. Among these three cells, the tdic chromosome was broken in two and absent in one, which indicates that there was some unstable separation of this dicentric in cell division. In two metaphases, there was a chromatid gap at the site of one centromere. Possibly, the absence of certain primary constrictions was associated with deletion of centromeres. This mechanism may be a continual source for additional centromere inactivation during the life of this patient. This case demonstrates that for some dicentrics either centromere may become nonfunctional and inactivation can occur more than once within an individual. The karyotype of this patient was 45,XX,tdic(5;15)(p31;p11). Thus, she was monosomic for about 3/4 of the chromosome 5 short arm. Clinically, this infant had a shrill catlike cry and facies of the cri du chat syndrome.", "PMID": 456039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11974", "title": "Confirmation of the assignment of the gene for galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (E.C. 2.7.7.12) to human chromosome 9.", "content": "The gene for galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT) has previously been assigned to human chromosomes 2, 3, and 9. We have studied a further series of human-mouse hybrids and are able to confirm that the human gene for GALT is located on human chromosome 9.", "contents": "Confirmation of the assignment of the gene for galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (E.C. 2.7.7.12) to human chromosome 9. The gene for galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT) has previously been assigned to human chromosomes 2, 3, and 9. We have studied a further series of human-mouse hybrids and are able to confirm that the human gene for GALT is located on human chromosome 9.", "PMID": 456040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11975", "title": "Aging and sister chromatid exchange. IV. Reduced frequencies of mutagen-induced sister chromatid exchanges in vivo in mouse bone marrow cells with aging.", "content": "Induction of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE's) was examined in bone marrow cells of young and old C57BL/6J mice exposed to three different DNA-damaging agents (cyclophosphamide, mitomycin C, and doxorubicin). At low concentrations of all three mutagens, the levels of induced SCE's were similar in young and old cell populations. However, at higher mutagen concentrations, SCE induction was significantly reduced in old cell populations. Studies of mice aged 5 to 32 months revealed that induced SCE frequencies remain stable during early adulthood (5 to 12 months) and then begin to decline as a function of age. These results indicate that with aging there exists a gradual alteration of cellular response to DNA damage.", "contents": "Aging and sister chromatid exchange. IV. Reduced frequencies of mutagen-induced sister chromatid exchanges in vivo in mouse bone marrow cells with aging. Induction of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE's) was examined in bone marrow cells of young and old C57BL/6J mice exposed to three different DNA-damaging agents (cyclophosphamide, mitomycin C, and doxorubicin). At low concentrations of all three mutagens, the levels of induced SCE's were similar in young and old cell populations. However, at higher mutagen concentrations, SCE induction was significantly reduced in old cell populations. Studies of mice aged 5 to 32 months revealed that induced SCE frequencies remain stable during early adulthood (5 to 12 months) and then begin to decline as a function of age. These results indicate that with aging there exists a gradual alteration of cellular response to DNA damage.", "PMID": 456041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11976", "title": "Preoperative pulmonary preparation of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a prospective study.", "content": "A group of 157 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who were treated before surgery using a standardized pulmonary preparation underwent physiologic assessment both before and after the prophylactic program. The postoperative course of each patient also was evaluated to assess the incidence of respiratory morbidity and mortality. Although many physiologic values were statistically improved after the pulmonary preparation, most of the changes are of doubtful functional significance. It is difficult to determine which patients will develop pulmonary complications not requiring mechanical ventilation, but the group requiring this type of support appears to be predictable on the basis of the severity of their pulmonary functional impairment and their lack of response to the standard pulmonary preparation used. The single most reliable test for this purpose was the mean forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the forced vital capacity. The frequency of postoperative respiratory complications was related to the type of operation, with the highest incidence occurring in the group that had extensive upper-abdominal surgery. While the occurrence of these complications was significantly reduced in patients undergoing a standard preoperative pulmonary preparation, the explanation for the beneficial effect of this procedure is not apparent.", "contents": "Preoperative pulmonary preparation of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a prospective study. A group of 157 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who were treated before surgery using a standardized pulmonary preparation underwent physiologic assessment both before and after the prophylactic program. The postoperative course of each patient also was evaluated to assess the incidence of respiratory morbidity and mortality. Although many physiologic values were statistically improved after the pulmonary preparation, most of the changes are of doubtful functional significance. It is difficult to determine which patients will develop pulmonary complications not requiring mechanical ventilation, but the group requiring this type of support appears to be predictable on the basis of the severity of their pulmonary functional impairment and their lack of response to the standard pulmonary preparation used. The single most reliable test for this purpose was the mean forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the forced vital capacity. The frequency of postoperative respiratory complications was related to the type of operation, with the highest incidence occurring in the group that had extensive upper-abdominal surgery. While the occurrence of these complications was significantly reduced in patients undergoing a standard preoperative pulmonary preparation, the explanation for the beneficial effect of this procedure is not apparent.", "PMID": 456049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11977", "title": "Preoperative pulmonary function and complications after cardiovascular surgery.", "content": "Results of preoperative pulmonary function tests were evaluated in 106 patients who had major thoracic or upper abdominal cardiovascular surgery. These results were related to the occurrence of postoperative complications by comparison of pulmonary function data in patients with an ICU stay of less than 5 days versus patients with an ICU stay of greater than 5 days. However, quantitative analysis of several specific parameters of pulmonary function tests failed to reveal any difference in the incidence of postoperative complications between patients with modest versus severe preoperative dysfunction. The occurrence of atelectasis was related to type of cardiovascular surgical procedure, but not to preoperative pulmonary function tests. Abnormalities on pulmonary function tests were not the major determinants of use of preoperative respiratory therapy, and its use was unrelated to the length of stay postoperatively in the ICU. We conclude that prior to cardiovascular surgery, routine quantitation of clinically apparent pulmonary dysfunction may be of little value in predicting postoperative morbidity and much less important than careful clinical evaluation. When pulmonary function tests are performed in such patients, simple spirometric tests and arterial blood gas levels are adequate.", "contents": "Preoperative pulmonary function and complications after cardiovascular surgery. Results of preoperative pulmonary function tests were evaluated in 106 patients who had major thoracic or upper abdominal cardiovascular surgery. These results were related to the occurrence of postoperative complications by comparison of pulmonary function data in patients with an ICU stay of less than 5 days versus patients with an ICU stay of greater than 5 days. However, quantitative analysis of several specific parameters of pulmonary function tests failed to reveal any difference in the incidence of postoperative complications between patients with modest versus severe preoperative dysfunction. The occurrence of atelectasis was related to type of cardiovascular surgical procedure, but not to preoperative pulmonary function tests. Abnormalities on pulmonary function tests were not the major determinants of use of preoperative respiratory therapy, and its use was unrelated to the length of stay postoperatively in the ICU. We conclude that prior to cardiovascular surgery, routine quantitation of clinically apparent pulmonary dysfunction may be of little value in predicting postoperative morbidity and much less important than careful clinical evaluation. When pulmonary function tests are performed in such patients, simple spirometric tests and arterial blood gas levels are adequate.", "PMID": 456050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11978", "title": "Numbers of asbestos bodies in urban patients with lung cancer and gastrointestinal cancer and in matched controls.", "content": "We compared the numbers of asbestos bodies extracted from the lungs of 103 patients with lung cancer and 50 patients with gastrointestinal malignant neoplasms to the numbers of bodies extracted from lungs of control patients matched for age, sex, smoking habits, and, in some cases, occupation. All patients were urban dwellers over the age of 40 years, and none was a primary asbestos worker. No differences in the counts of asbestos bodies were observed between the tested and control populations. The numbers of asbestos bodies did correlate well with occupation; the highest counts were found in male manual laborers. We conclude that in the urban population studied herein, the numbers of asbestos bodies alone do not correlate with the presence of pulmonary or gastrointestinal carcinoma; however, uncoated asbestos fibers are also known to be present in the lung, and the possibility that such tumors may be related to the numbers of these fibers in lungs remains to be explored.", "contents": "Numbers of asbestos bodies in urban patients with lung cancer and gastrointestinal cancer and in matched controls. We compared the numbers of asbestos bodies extracted from the lungs of 103 patients with lung cancer and 50 patients with gastrointestinal malignant neoplasms to the numbers of bodies extracted from lungs of control patients matched for age, sex, smoking habits, and, in some cases, occupation. All patients were urban dwellers over the age of 40 years, and none was a primary asbestos worker. No differences in the counts of asbestos bodies were observed between the tested and control populations. The numbers of asbestos bodies did correlate well with occupation; the highest counts were found in male manual laborers. We conclude that in the urban population studied herein, the numbers of asbestos bodies alone do not correlate with the presence of pulmonary or gastrointestinal carcinoma; however, uncoated asbestos fibers are also known to be present in the lung, and the possibility that such tumors may be related to the numbers of these fibers in lungs remains to be explored.", "PMID": 456051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11979", "title": "Early treadmill testing after myocardial infarction: Angiographic and hemodynamic correlations.", "content": "Twenty-eight patients who were two weeks post acute myocardial infarction walked on a motorized treadmill at 1 MPH 0 percent grade for five minutes (group 1) or to an end-point of symptoms, ST-T wave changes or arrhythmias (group 2). At subsequent cardiac catheterization, 73 percent in group 1 had single vessel coronary artery disease whereas 82 percent group 2 had three or four vessel coronary artery disease. Ejection fraction was better in group 1 as was the slope of a modified left ventricular function curve. We conclude that limited exercise treadmill testing soon after acute myocardial infarction may be useful in predicting the extent of coronary artery disease and the amount of left ventricular dysfunction.", "contents": "Early treadmill testing after myocardial infarction: Angiographic and hemodynamic correlations. Twenty-eight patients who were two weeks post acute myocardial infarction walked on a motorized treadmill at 1 MPH 0 percent grade for five minutes (group 1) or to an end-point of symptoms, ST-T wave changes or arrhythmias (group 2). At subsequent cardiac catheterization, 73 percent in group 1 had single vessel coronary artery disease whereas 82 percent group 2 had three or four vessel coronary artery disease. Ejection fraction was better in group 1 as was the slope of a modified left ventricular function curve. We conclude that limited exercise treadmill testing soon after acute myocardial infarction may be useful in predicting the extent of coronary artery disease and the amount of left ventricular dysfunction.", "PMID": 456052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11980", "title": "Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: abnormal in vitro function of alveolar macrophages.", "content": "Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is characterized by the accumulation of granular proteinaceous material within the alveoli of the lung. It is well established that patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis have a high incidence of complicating pulmonary infections, which suggests that the function of the alveolar macrophages is abnormal. To investigate the function of these cells, they were obtained from two patients by pulmonary lavage with physiologic saline solution and were incubated with Staphylococcus aureus in vitro. The decline in viable organisms from the culture was measured and compared with results obtained with normal alveolar macrophages. On the basis of decreased phagocytosis, results indicate that pulmonary alveolar macrophages from these patients had defective antibacterial function.", "contents": "Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: abnormal in vitro function of alveolar macrophages. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is characterized by the accumulation of granular proteinaceous material within the alveoli of the lung. It is well established that patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis have a high incidence of complicating pulmonary infections, which suggests that the function of the alveolar macrophages is abnormal. To investigate the function of these cells, they were obtained from two patients by pulmonary lavage with physiologic saline solution and were incubated with Staphylococcus aureus in vitro. The decline in viable organisms from the culture was measured and compared with results obtained with normal alveolar macrophages. On the basis of decreased phagocytosis, results indicate that pulmonary alveolar macrophages from these patients had defective antibacterial function.", "PMID": 456053} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11981", "title": "Vectorcardiographic detection of early hemodynamic abnormalities in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.", "content": "The ability of the vectorcardiogram to detect mild circulatory abnormalities in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. Therefore, vectorcardiographic changes were correlated with hemodynamic measurements made at rest and during supine exercise in 32 patients with COPD and no clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy. Twelve patients had normal hemodynamic data (group 1), nine had abnormal hemodynamic data only during exercise (group 2), and 11 had abnormal hemodynamic data at rest and during exercise (group 3). The extent of rightward terminal QRS forces noted on the vectorcardiogram was significantly less in group 1 (5.5 +/- 8.7 percent) than in either group 2 (19.0 +/- 10.7 percent) or group 3 (17.8 +/- 14.8 percent). Sixty-five percent (13) of the 20 patients with hemodynamic abnormalities had rightward terminal QRS forces of 15 percent or more, whereas only 8 percent (one) of the 12 patients with normal hemodynamic data had such forces of 15 percent or more. The mean of the rightward terminal QRS forces in 27 age-matched normal subjects was 5.0 +/- 5.4 percent, and only one subject had forces of 15 percent or more. We conclude that hemodynamic abnormalities are frequent in patients with COPD and no clinical evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy and that the vectorcardiogram provides an indirect method of detecting these abnormalities.", "contents": "Vectorcardiographic detection of early hemodynamic abnormalities in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The ability of the vectorcardiogram to detect mild circulatory abnormalities in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. Therefore, vectorcardiographic changes were correlated with hemodynamic measurements made at rest and during supine exercise in 32 patients with COPD and no clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy. Twelve patients had normal hemodynamic data (group 1), nine had abnormal hemodynamic data only during exercise (group 2), and 11 had abnormal hemodynamic data at rest and during exercise (group 3). The extent of rightward terminal QRS forces noted on the vectorcardiogram was significantly less in group 1 (5.5 +/- 8.7 percent) than in either group 2 (19.0 +/- 10.7 percent) or group 3 (17.8 +/- 14.8 percent). Sixty-five percent (13) of the 20 patients with hemodynamic abnormalities had rightward terminal QRS forces of 15 percent or more, whereas only 8 percent (one) of the 12 patients with normal hemodynamic data had such forces of 15 percent or more. The mean of the rightward terminal QRS forces in 27 age-matched normal subjects was 5.0 +/- 5.4 percent, and only one subject had forces of 15 percent or more. We conclude that hemodynamic abnormalities are frequent in patients with COPD and no clinical evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy and that the vectorcardiogram provides an indirect method of detecting these abnormalities.", "PMID": 456054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11982", "title": "Measuring exhaled volume with continuous positive airway pressure and intermittent mandatory ventilation. Techniques and rationale.", "content": "When patients breathe spontaneously through a ventilator circuit, a fall in airway pressure during the inspiratory cycle may increase inspiratory effort. A system of delivery which incorporates a distensible reservoir bag and delivers a constant flow of gas that is two or three times the patient's minute volume will prevent a significant drop in inspiratory airway pressure. Unfortunately, the constant flow of gas mixes with the patient's exhaled gas and makes continuous monitoring of exhaled volumes difficult. Two modifications of circuits are described which allow accurate continuous measurement of volume. One of these circuits allows analysis of the concentrations of expired gases. When spontaneous ventilation occurs, tidal volume and minute ventilation demonstrate an intact connection between the ventilator and the patient, continuously indicate the patient's ability to sustain independent ventilation, and give early warning of a change in respiratory status.", "contents": "Measuring exhaled volume with continuous positive airway pressure and intermittent mandatory ventilation. Techniques and rationale. When patients breathe spontaneously through a ventilator circuit, a fall in airway pressure during the inspiratory cycle may increase inspiratory effort. A system of delivery which incorporates a distensible reservoir bag and delivers a constant flow of gas that is two or three times the patient's minute volume will prevent a significant drop in inspiratory airway pressure. Unfortunately, the constant flow of gas mixes with the patient's exhaled gas and makes continuous monitoring of exhaled volumes difficult. Two modifications of circuits are described which allow accurate continuous measurement of volume. One of these circuits allows analysis of the concentrations of expired gases. When spontaneous ventilation occurs, tidal volume and minute ventilation demonstrate an intact connection between the ventilator and the patient, continuously indicate the patient's ability to sustain independent ventilation, and give early warning of a change in respiratory status.", "PMID": 456055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11983", "title": "Pulmonary amyloidoma and hilar adenopathy. Rare manifestations of primary amyloidosis.", "content": "Three cases of primary intrathoracic amyloidosis are reported. Two of these three patients initially had localized parenchymal pulmonary amyloid tumors (or pulmonary amyloidomas). The third patient developed bilateral enlargement of the hilar lymph nodes as a manifestation of primary amyloidosis. These rare manifestations of primary amyloidosis are illustrated, and their clinical signifiance is discussed. Amyloidoma should be considered in patients with unexplained pulmonary nodules or enlargement of hilar lymph nodes.", "contents": "Pulmonary amyloidoma and hilar adenopathy. Rare manifestations of primary amyloidosis. Three cases of primary intrathoracic amyloidosis are reported. Two of these three patients initially had localized parenchymal pulmonary amyloid tumors (or pulmonary amyloidomas). The third patient developed bilateral enlargement of the hilar lymph nodes as a manifestation of primary amyloidosis. These rare manifestations of primary amyloidosis are illustrated, and their clinical signifiance is discussed. Amyloidoma should be considered in patients with unexplained pulmonary nodules or enlargement of hilar lymph nodes.", "PMID": 456056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11984", "title": "Diagnostic accuracy in peripheral lung lesions. Factors predicting success with flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy.", "content": "Ninety-seven consecutive peripheral lung lesions were evaluated by biplane fluoroscopically guided flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy and analyzed to define features that predict diagnostic yield. The overall diagnostic accuracy was 56 percent (63 percent for malignant and 38 percent for benign lesions). The most important characteristic associated with a positive cyto- or histopathologic diagnosis was size of the lesion; the yield was 28 percent when the diameter was less than 2.0 cm compared to 64 percent if the diameter was greater than or equal to 2.0 cm (P = 0.0035). The diagnostic yield was similar for lesions located in the outer and middle third of the lung if the diameter was greater than 2.0 cm; inner one-third lesions were correctly diagnosed more frequently, related in part to the larger size of these lesions. There was no significant difference in diagnostic yield for the following: segmental location, greatest distance from carcina on either the posteroanterior or lateral radiograph, or radiographic characteristics of the lesion. We conclude that biplane fluoroscopically guided flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy is a reasonable diagnostic procedure for peripheral lesions greater than or equal to 2.0 cm in diameter, but that alternative procedures should be used for lesions under 2.0 cm in diameter.", "contents": "Diagnostic accuracy in peripheral lung lesions. Factors predicting success with flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Ninety-seven consecutive peripheral lung lesions were evaluated by biplane fluoroscopically guided flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy and analyzed to define features that predict diagnostic yield. The overall diagnostic accuracy was 56 percent (63 percent for malignant and 38 percent for benign lesions). The most important characteristic associated with a positive cyto- or histopathologic diagnosis was size of the lesion; the yield was 28 percent when the diameter was less than 2.0 cm compared to 64 percent if the diameter was greater than or equal to 2.0 cm (P = 0.0035). The diagnostic yield was similar for lesions located in the outer and middle third of the lung if the diameter was greater than 2.0 cm; inner one-third lesions were correctly diagnosed more frequently, related in part to the larger size of these lesions. There was no significant difference in diagnostic yield for the following: segmental location, greatest distance from carcina on either the posteroanterior or lateral radiograph, or radiographic characteristics of the lesion. We conclude that biplane fluoroscopically guided flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy is a reasonable diagnostic procedure for peripheral lesions greater than or equal to 2.0 cm in diameter, but that alternative procedures should be used for lesions under 2.0 cm in diameter.", "PMID": 456057} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11985", "title": "Evaluation of the progress and prognosis of adult respiratory distress syndrome. Simple respiratory physiologic measurement.", "content": "In our study of 14 patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), we measured A-aDO2, VD/VT, arterial-to-end tidal PCO2 ), effective dynamic compliance, and pulmonary vascular resistance on a daily basis. At the onset of ARDS, all patients showed bilateral interstitial edema on the chest X-ray films, P(A-a)O2 of more than 500 mm Hg, marked decrease in effective dynamic compliance, a moderate increase in VD/VT, and a normal value of a-etPCO2. Pulmonary vascular resistance was low. After seven days, all of those who subsequently died and developed persistent elevation of P(A-a)O2, significant increase in VD/VT, a-etPCO2 and pulmonary vascular resistance, and significant decrease in effective dynamic compliance compared to the values at the onset of ARDS. Those abnormalities diverged significantly from the findings in those who survived. By evaluating sequential changes of those parameters, we might be able to predict an accurate prognosis of ARDS.", "contents": "Evaluation of the progress and prognosis of adult respiratory distress syndrome. Simple respiratory physiologic measurement. In our study of 14 patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), we measured A-aDO2, VD/VT, arterial-to-end tidal PCO2 ), effective dynamic compliance, and pulmonary vascular resistance on a daily basis. At the onset of ARDS, all patients showed bilateral interstitial edema on the chest X-ray films, P(A-a)O2 of more than 500 mm Hg, marked decrease in effective dynamic compliance, a moderate increase in VD/VT, and a normal value of a-etPCO2. Pulmonary vascular resistance was low. After seven days, all of those who subsequently died and developed persistent elevation of P(A-a)O2, significant increase in VD/VT, a-etPCO2 and pulmonary vascular resistance, and significant decrease in effective dynamic compliance compared to the values at the onset of ARDS. Those abnormalities diverged significantly from the findings in those who survived. By evaluating sequential changes of those parameters, we might be able to predict an accurate prognosis of ARDS.", "PMID": 456058} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11986", "title": "Multiple cardiac output measurements in man. Evaluation of a new closed-system thermodilution method.", "content": "Cardiac output estimates by a new closed-system automatic injection thermodilution method (COI-TD) were compared serially with the direct Fick technique (COFICK) and the standard open-system manual injection thermodilution method (COTD). Comparison with cardiac outputs determined simultaneously by the direct Fick technique in 100 measurements involving ten patients showed close agreement with the new closed system method using both 25 degrees C and 3 degrees C injectates. The cardiac output range was between 1.9 to 11.6 L/min. The open-system manual injection thermodilution method under identical conditions produced a wide scatter of measurements when compared to the direct Fick technique. Reproducibility of simultaneous COI-TD and COTD measurements was examined in quadruplicate. The reproducibility of measurements was within 1.9 percent with COI-TD and 5.9 percent with the COTD method using both 25 degrees C and 3 degrees C injectates. The COI-TD method eliminates the technical problems of recirculation, unstable indicator baseline changes, thermal continuity, and reproducibility encountered with the current COTD method. Analysis of cardiac output by the closed-system automatic injection thermodilution method provides a simple, rapid, reproducible, and highly accurate method for multiple cardiac output measurements suitable for use at the bedside.", "contents": "Multiple cardiac output measurements in man. Evaluation of a new closed-system thermodilution method. Cardiac output estimates by a new closed-system automatic injection thermodilution method (COI-TD) were compared serially with the direct Fick technique (COFICK) and the standard open-system manual injection thermodilution method (COTD). Comparison with cardiac outputs determined simultaneously by the direct Fick technique in 100 measurements involving ten patients showed close agreement with the new closed system method using both 25 degrees C and 3 degrees C injectates. The cardiac output range was between 1.9 to 11.6 L/min. The open-system manual injection thermodilution method under identical conditions produced a wide scatter of measurements when compared to the direct Fick technique. Reproducibility of simultaneous COI-TD and COTD measurements was examined in quadruplicate. The reproducibility of measurements was within 1.9 percent with COI-TD and 5.9 percent with the COTD method using both 25 degrees C and 3 degrees C injectates. The COI-TD method eliminates the technical problems of recirculation, unstable indicator baseline changes, thermal continuity, and reproducibility encountered with the current COTD method. Analysis of cardiac output by the closed-system automatic injection thermodilution method provides a simple, rapid, reproducible, and highly accurate method for multiple cardiac output measurements suitable for use at the bedside.", "PMID": 456059} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11987", "title": "Primary alveolar hypoventilation managed by negative-pressure ventilators.", "content": "A girl who had a history of repeated apnea was found to have absent chemical drive to ventilation and, on sleep monitoring, both central and obstructive types of apnea. She is currently undergoing successful mechanical ventilation at night with negative-pressure ventilators.", "contents": "Primary alveolar hypoventilation managed by negative-pressure ventilators. A girl who had a history of repeated apnea was found to have absent chemical drive to ventilation and, on sleep monitoring, both central and obstructive types of apnea. She is currently undergoing successful mechanical ventilation at night with negative-pressure ventilators.", "PMID": 456061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11988", "title": "Development of aortic valvular vegetations during appropriate antibiotic therapy. Demonstration through serial echocardiograms.", "content": "The development of echocardiographically demonstrable vegetations on cardiac valves while the patient is receiving appropriate antibiotic therapy has not been previously reported. We report a case of alpha-hemolytic streptococcal endocarditis involving the aortic valve. Echocardiographically visualized vegetations were noted to occur on the 11th day of hospitalization. We discuss the role of serial echocardiograms in the management of patients with bacteremias and suspected endocarditis but absence of vegetations on the initial echocardiogram.", "contents": "Development of aortic valvular vegetations during appropriate antibiotic therapy. Demonstration through serial echocardiograms. The development of echocardiographically demonstrable vegetations on cardiac valves while the patient is receiving appropriate antibiotic therapy has not been previously reported. We report a case of alpha-hemolytic streptococcal endocarditis involving the aortic valve. Echocardiographically visualized vegetations were noted to occur on the 11th day of hospitalization. We discuss the role of serial echocardiograms in the management of patients with bacteremias and suspected endocarditis but absence of vegetations on the initial echocardiogram.", "PMID": 456062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11989", "title": "Epicardial pacemaker complicated by cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis.", "content": "Following insertion of an epicardial pacemaker, our patient developed cardiac tamponade complicated by subacute constrictive pericarditis. Echocardiographic findings and intracardiac pressures were typical of constrictive pericarditis, which was confirmed at surgery. Although rare, these unusual complications should be considered in patients who develop evidence of reduced cardiac output following either transvenous or epicardial electrode placement.", "contents": "Epicardial pacemaker complicated by cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis. Following insertion of an epicardial pacemaker, our patient developed cardiac tamponade complicated by subacute constrictive pericarditis. Echocardiographic findings and intracardiac pressures were typical of constrictive pericarditis, which was confirmed at surgery. Although rare, these unusual complications should be considered in patients who develop evidence of reduced cardiac output following either transvenous or epicardial electrode placement.", "PMID": 456063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11990", "title": "Actinomycotic cervical abscess: A complication of transtracheal aspiration.", "content": "Transtracheal aspiration is frequently employed to obtain sputum for microbiologic analysis. Infectious complications of this procedure have been reported rarely. We report an actinomycotic anterior cervical abscess traversing the needle track of a transtracheal aspiration in a patient with actinomycotic pneumonia. Organisms most frequently encountered in anterior cervical abscesses complicating transtracheal aspiration have the recognized potential for local invasion of soft tissue from the primary pulmonary lesion.", "contents": "Actinomycotic cervical abscess: A complication of transtracheal aspiration. Transtracheal aspiration is frequently employed to obtain sputum for microbiologic analysis. Infectious complications of this procedure have been reported rarely. We report an actinomycotic anterior cervical abscess traversing the needle track of a transtracheal aspiration in a patient with actinomycotic pneumonia. Organisms most frequently encountered in anterior cervical abscesses complicating transtracheal aspiration have the recognized potential for local invasion of soft tissue from the primary pulmonary lesion.", "PMID": 456064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11991", "title": "Spontaneous regression of diffuse tracheobronchial amyloidosis.", "content": "Diffuse tracheobronchial amyloidosis which underwent an extensive spontaneous regression is described in a 39-year-old man. This regression was documented by serial roentgenograms of the chest, studies of pulmonary function, and bronchoscopic procedures with mucosal biopsies. The clinical implications of this spontaneous change are discussed.", "contents": "Spontaneous regression of diffuse tracheobronchial amyloidosis. Diffuse tracheobronchial amyloidosis which underwent an extensive spontaneous regression is described in a 39-year-old man. This regression was documented by serial roentgenograms of the chest, studies of pulmonary function, and bronchoscopic procedures with mucosal biopsies. The clinical implications of this spontaneous change are discussed.", "PMID": 456066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11992", "title": "Evaluation of the biliary excretion of pencillin G.", "content": "Biliary excretion of penicillin G was studied experimentally by perfusion of isolated rabbit liver. Under these conditions, bile recovery accounted for 5% of the amount of penicillin G added to the perfusing blood (10 mg). In man, after intravenous administration of a 599-mg dose of penicillin G (1,000,000 U) to patients provided with T-tube drainage (n = 10), the maximum biliary level averaged 18.0 +/- 8.0 microgram/ml at 2 h; biliary recovery of penicillin G accounted for 0.12% of the administered dose. The excretion of penicillin G in the juice collected through duodenal tubing in normal subjects averaged 0.07% of the administered dose. Peroperative assays showed that the concentrations determined 1 h after intravenous administration 599 mg of the drug attained 45.7 +/- 16.7 microgram/ml in the gallbladder bile and 93.5 +/- 16.3 microgram/ml in the common-duct bile.", "contents": "Evaluation of the biliary excretion of pencillin G. Biliary excretion of penicillin G was studied experimentally by perfusion of isolated rabbit liver. Under these conditions, bile recovery accounted for 5% of the amount of penicillin G added to the perfusing blood (10 mg). In man, after intravenous administration of a 599-mg dose of penicillin G (1,000,000 U) to patients provided with T-tube drainage (n = 10), the maximum biliary level averaged 18.0 +/- 8.0 microgram/ml at 2 h; biliary recovery of penicillin G accounted for 0.12% of the administered dose. The excretion of penicillin G in the juice collected through duodenal tubing in normal subjects averaged 0.07% of the administered dose. Peroperative assays showed that the concentrations determined 1 h after intravenous administration 599 mg of the drug attained 45.7 +/- 16.7 microgram/ml in the gallbladder bile and 93.5 +/- 16.3 microgram/ml in the common-duct bile.", "PMID": 456074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11993", "title": "Incidence and mechanisms of resistance to trimethoprim in clinically isolated gram-negative bacteria.", "content": "Over an 18-month period (October 1973 to April 1975), 133 strains of gram-negative bacteria with acquired resistance to trimethoprim (TM) were isolated from infected urines cultured at the Royal Free Hospital. The overall frequency of resistance was 3.2%. A disproportionately high number of resistant strains (63.1%) were Kebsiella aerogenes. Resistance to TM mediated by R plasmids occurs infrequently (9% of all resistant strains); the majority of TMR plasmids isolated belonged to one incompatability group (W). Chromosomally mediated resistance to TM in most Escherichia coli and K. aerogenes strains appears to be due mainly to production of a dihydrofolate reductase with a reduced susceptibility to TM. In some strains, increased activity of the DHFR was also a contributing factor. Increase in enzyme level alone was only great enough to account for the level of resistance to TM in a small number of cases.", "contents": "Incidence and mechanisms of resistance to trimethoprim in clinically isolated gram-negative bacteria. Over an 18-month period (October 1973 to April 1975), 133 strains of gram-negative bacteria with acquired resistance to trimethoprim (TM) were isolated from infected urines cultured at the Royal Free Hospital. The overall frequency of resistance was 3.2%. A disproportionately high number of resistant strains (63.1%) were Kebsiella aerogenes. Resistance to TM mediated by R plasmids occurs infrequently (9% of all resistant strains); the majority of TMR plasmids isolated belonged to one incompatability group (W). Chromosomally mediated resistance to TM in most Escherichia coli and K. aerogenes strains appears to be due mainly to production of a dihydrofolate reductase with a reduced susceptibility to TM. In some strains, increased activity of the DHFR was also a contributing factor. Increase in enzyme level alone was only great enough to account for the level of resistance to TM in a small number of cases.", "PMID": 456075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11994", "title": "Sensitivity of gentamicin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae to cefamandole and cefoxitin.", "content": "A collection of gentamicin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae strains was significantly more resistant to cefamandole than a species-matched collection of gentamicin-sensitive organisms. Cefamandole and gentamicin resistance could be simultaneously transferred by conjugation from four different species, Citrobacter freundii, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens, to a recipient E. coli strain. Plasmids specifying linked resistance to cefamandole and gentamicin are thus commonly present in the environment of our medical center despite the fact that cefamandole has never been used here. Gentamicin-resistant organisms were not more resistant to cefoxitin than gentamicin-sensitive isolates. Conjugal transfer of cefoxitin resistance could not be demonstrated. Relative resistance to cefoxitin was nevertheless common among Enterobacter and Serratia isolates.", "contents": "Sensitivity of gentamicin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae to cefamandole and cefoxitin. A collection of gentamicin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae strains was significantly more resistant to cefamandole than a species-matched collection of gentamicin-sensitive organisms. Cefamandole and gentamicin resistance could be simultaneously transferred by conjugation from four different species, Citrobacter freundii, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens, to a recipient E. coli strain. Plasmids specifying linked resistance to cefamandole and gentamicin are thus commonly present in the environment of our medical center despite the fact that cefamandole has never been used here. Gentamicin-resistant organisms were not more resistant to cefoxitin than gentamicin-sensitive isolates. Conjugal transfer of cefoxitin resistance could not be demonstrated. Relative resistance to cefoxitin was nevertheless common among Enterobacter and Serratia isolates.", "PMID": 456076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11995", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of cefadroxil in normal subjects and in patients with renal insufficiency.", "content": "Pharmacokinetics of cefadroxil, a new orally semisynthetic cephalosporin, was studied in 5 subjects with normal renal function and in 20 patients with varying degrees of renal insufficiency. All subjects received 1,000 mg per os in a single dose and the elimination phase was studied. In healthy subjects, elimination half-life (T1/2) was 1.39 +/- 0.06 h. Apparent volume of distribution was 0.305 liters/kg and area under the serum concentration versus time curve AUC was 82.94 +/- 19.98 microgram . h/ml. Peak level averaged 25.72 +/- 4.68 microgram . ml-1 and occurred at 1.20 +/- 0.45 h postingestion. 93.0 +/- 3.6% of the dose was recovered in urine during the first 24 h. Renal and serum clearance averaged 166.7 and 172.4 ml . min-1/1.73 m2, respectively. In patients with renal insufficiency, T1/2 increased to 25.49 h in severe chronic renal failure. Renal impairment did not significantly modify volume of distribution. During a 6- to 8-hour hemodialysis session, antibiotic serum concentrations decreased by 75.4 +/- 5.6%. Dosage schedules could be suggested on the basis of these pharmacokinetic results.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of cefadroxil in normal subjects and in patients with renal insufficiency. Pharmacokinetics of cefadroxil, a new orally semisynthetic cephalosporin, was studied in 5 subjects with normal renal function and in 20 patients with varying degrees of renal insufficiency. All subjects received 1,000 mg per os in a single dose and the elimination phase was studied. In healthy subjects, elimination half-life (T1/2) was 1.39 +/- 0.06 h. Apparent volume of distribution was 0.305 liters/kg and area under the serum concentration versus time curve AUC was 82.94 +/- 19.98 microgram . h/ml. Peak level averaged 25.72 +/- 4.68 microgram . ml-1 and occurred at 1.20 +/- 0.45 h postingestion. 93.0 +/- 3.6% of the dose was recovered in urine during the first 24 h. Renal and serum clearance averaged 166.7 and 172.4 ml . min-1/1.73 m2, respectively. In patients with renal insufficiency, T1/2 increased to 25.49 h in severe chronic renal failure. Renal impairment did not significantly modify volume of distribution. During a 6- to 8-hour hemodialysis session, antibiotic serum concentrations decreased by 75.4 +/- 5.6%. Dosage schedules could be suggested on the basis of these pharmacokinetic results.", "PMID": 456077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11996", "title": "Reaction of the vaginal flora to ornidazol in patients with cervicitis.", "content": "The cervical and high vaginal flora of 76 patients with cervicitis were studied before and after therapy with Ornidazol by quantitative culture methods. Lactobacilli were the predominant organisms, but Peptostreptococci, Bacteroides and Trichomonas were encountered in 17, respectively 32 and 81% of all specimens. During and after therapy Trichomonas disappeared completely, the bacterial flora normalized and became comparable to that of healthy women with incidences for Bacteroides of 8-13% and Peptostreptococci of 4-5%. The in vitro susceptibility (MIC and MBC) of 50 strains of Bacteroides to Ornidazol was determined by a broth dilution method and an agar plate technique. The MIC varied from 0.07 to 10 microgram/ml. All strains were susceptible to 10 microgram/ml. There was a slight variation in resistance between the various species tested. B. fragilis was less susceptible to Ornidazol than other Bacteroides species. Within the species B. fragilis the subspecies thetaiotaomicron and 'other' were most susceptible, spp. fragilis and spp. distasonis least.", "contents": "Reaction of the vaginal flora to ornidazol in patients with cervicitis. The cervical and high vaginal flora of 76 patients with cervicitis were studied before and after therapy with Ornidazol by quantitative culture methods. Lactobacilli were the predominant organisms, but Peptostreptococci, Bacteroides and Trichomonas were encountered in 17, respectively 32 and 81% of all specimens. During and after therapy Trichomonas disappeared completely, the bacterial flora normalized and became comparable to that of healthy women with incidences for Bacteroides of 8-13% and Peptostreptococci of 4-5%. The in vitro susceptibility (MIC and MBC) of 50 strains of Bacteroides to Ornidazol was determined by a broth dilution method and an agar plate technique. The MIC varied from 0.07 to 10 microgram/ml. All strains were susceptible to 10 microgram/ml. There was a slight variation in resistance between the various species tested. B. fragilis was less susceptible to Ornidazol than other Bacteroides species. Within the species B. fragilis the subspecies thetaiotaomicron and 'other' were most susceptible, spp. fragilis and spp. distasonis least.", "PMID": 456078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11997", "title": "Evaluation in residential treatment: the conceptual dilemmas.", "content": "Determining effectiveness of residential treatment must be preceded by basic decisions on precisely what the goals are, and in what time-frame and dimensions--symptoms or adaptability--will achievement be measured.", "contents": "Evaluation in residential treatment: the conceptual dilemmas. Determining effectiveness of residential treatment must be preceded by basic decisions on precisely what the goals are, and in what time-frame and dimensions--symptoms or adaptability--will achievement be measured.", "PMID": 456085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11998", "title": "Outcomes of residential treatment: designing accountability protocols.", "content": "This paper is a preliminary report on a year-old pilot project attempting to formulate protocols for measuring goal achievement in residential treatment.", "contents": "Outcomes of residential treatment: designing accountability protocols. This paper is a preliminary report on a year-old pilot project attempting to formulate protocols for measuring goal achievement in residential treatment.", "PMID": 456086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_11999", "title": "The threat of abuse: problems in aggression and individuality.", "content": "Children whose early developmental years are marked by constant threat of parental abuse often manifest as adults an inability to tolerate aggression or to develop close relationships.", "contents": "The threat of abuse: problems in aggression and individuality. Children whose early developmental years are marked by constant threat of parental abuse often manifest as adults an inability to tolerate aggression or to develop close relationships.", "PMID": 456087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12000", "title": "A joint treatment \"package\" of the Army and a child welfare agency.", "content": "A project at Fort Riley, Kansas, combining military, community and private resources, stresses parent education and problems of isolation and self-concept.", "contents": "A joint treatment \"package\" of the Army and a child welfare agency. A project at Fort Riley, Kansas, combining military, community and private resources, stresses parent education and problems of isolation and self-concept.", "PMID": 456088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12001", "title": "Parental perceptions of behaviors in preschool children.", "content": "A comparison of parental descriptions revealed that mothers of developmentally delayed children listed fewer deviant behaviors than did mothers of behaviorally disturbed children, but significantly more than mothers of non-clinic children. The Washington Symptom Checklist, used in this research, proved a useful clinical tool.", "contents": "Parental perceptions of behaviors in preschool children. A comparison of parental descriptions revealed that mothers of developmentally delayed children listed fewer deviant behaviors than did mothers of behaviorally disturbed children, but significantly more than mothers of non-clinic children. The Washington Symptom Checklist, used in this research, proved a useful clinical tool.", "PMID": 456089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12002", "title": "Child welfare management: a model curriculum.", "content": "A social work school curriculum designed especially to train persons to manage child welfare program is in its second year of operation. It may provide a model for training personnel in this area.", "contents": "Child welfare management: a model curriculum. A social work school curriculum designed especially to train persons to manage child welfare program is in its second year of operation. It may provide a model for training personnel in this area.", "PMID": 456090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12003", "title": "Today's unmarried mothers: the choices have changed.", "content": "A mid-1970s study of the characteristics of pregnant unmarried mothers who keep their children and those who surrender them for adoption discloses some differences from the characteristics of such mothers in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The swing away from adoption may reflect changes in social values.", "contents": "Today's unmarried mothers: the choices have changed. A mid-1970s study of the characteristics of pregnant unmarried mothers who keep their children and those who surrender them for adoption discloses some differences from the characteristics of such mothers in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The swing away from adoption may reflect changes in social values.", "PMID": 456091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12004", "title": "Racial and cultural issues in adoption.", "content": "A review of the philosophical and practical issues in transracial adoption yields theoretical conclusions and some suggestions to agencies.", "contents": "Racial and cultural issues in adoption. A review of the philosophical and practical issues in transracial adoption yields theoretical conclusions and some suggestions to agencies.", "PMID": 456092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12005", "title": "Reciprocal nature of parent-infant interaction: implications for child maltreatment.", "content": "Exploration of the infant's role in creating a potentially abusive situation suggests a different orientation for child maltreatment programs.", "contents": "Reciprocal nature of parent-infant interaction: implications for child maltreatment. Exploration of the infant's role in creating a potentially abusive situation suggests a different orientation for child maltreatment programs.", "PMID": 456093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12006", "title": "Sex education for children in a residential center.", "content": "Sex education programs for emotionally disturbed children present special problems. This article emphasizes training of child care workers and their role as teachers.", "contents": "Sex education for children in a residential center. Sex education programs for emotionally disturbed children present special problems. This article emphasizes training of child care workers and their role as teachers.", "PMID": 456094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12007", "title": "Homemakers for Israeli families of retarded children.", "content": "Homemakers especially trained to assist in the care of retarded children remaining at home have proved effective in a year of experimentation.", "contents": "Homemakers for Israeli families of retarded children. Homemakers especially trained to assist in the care of retarded children remaining at home have proved effective in a year of experimentation.", "PMID": 456095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12008", "title": "The results of operating upon cerebral aneurysms and angiomas in children and adolescents. I. Cerebral aneurysms.", "content": "This paper summarizes the clinical presentation, location, surgical management, and results in 32 patients with cerebral aneurysms. Surgical mortality has been 21.9% for aneurysms (all grades). For good risk aneurysms (Botterell 1 and 2), the surgical death rate was 8.0% (2/25). Clinical presentations and techniques of treatment are summarized.", "contents": "The results of operating upon cerebral aneurysms and angiomas in children and adolescents. I. Cerebral aneurysms. This paper summarizes the clinical presentation, location, surgical management, and results in 32 patients with cerebral aneurysms. Surgical mortality has been 21.9% for aneurysms (all grades). For good risk aneurysms (Botterell 1 and 2), the surgical death rate was 8.0% (2/25). Clinical presentations and techniques of treatment are summarized.", "PMID": 456097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12009", "title": "The results of operating upon cerebral aneurysms and angiomas in children and adolescents. II. Cerebral angiomas.", "content": "Symptomatic angiomas of the brain, brain stem or cerebellum are uncommon in all age groups. They usually present by subarachnoid and intraparenchymatous hemorrhage, but they may act as expanding mass lesions, as causes of ingavescent neurological deficit (?'steal phenomenon'), as epilepticogenic foci, or as a source of relentless headache. We have operated upon 20 patients, 18 years of age of less, with symptomatic angiomas. There has been no surgical mortality, and no patient has been made worse by operation.", "contents": "The results of operating upon cerebral aneurysms and angiomas in children and adolescents. II. Cerebral angiomas. Symptomatic angiomas of the brain, brain stem or cerebellum are uncommon in all age groups. They usually present by subarachnoid and intraparenchymatous hemorrhage, but they may act as expanding mass lesions, as causes of ingavescent neurological deficit (?'steal phenomenon'), as epilepticogenic foci, or as a source of relentless headache. We have operated upon 20 patients, 18 years of age of less, with symptomatic angiomas. There has been no surgical mortality, and no patient has been made worse by operation.", "PMID": 456098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12010", "title": "Pathophysiology, treatment and outcome following severe head injury in children.", "content": "The pathophysiology and outcome following severe head injury in 85 children are presented. The commonest initial CT diagnosis was of acute brain swelling. This swelling was associated with an increased white matter density on the CT scan which decreased to normal concomitant with recovery and increased ventricular size. CBF measurements in 6 of these patients revealed an increased blood flow despite a decreased CMRO2 and clinical coma. This CT pattern of diffuse swelling is believed to be due to acute cerebrovascular congestion and hyperemia and not to edema. Because of this, all children were treated with endotracheal intubation and controlled hyperventilation as part of the initial management. Mass lesions were uncommon, 20%. ICP was monitored in 40 children. The ICP rose above 20 Torr despite therapy in 80% of children with decerebrate or flaccid coma and in only 20% of children with spontaneous motor function. The ICP was at its highest between the second and fifth day. Aggressive therapy to control the ICP, with barbiturates if necessary, was successful in 80% of the patients. The overall results were useful recovery in 87.5% of the children, 3.5% were left vegetative or severely disabled and 9% died.", "contents": "Pathophysiology, treatment and outcome following severe head injury in children. The pathophysiology and outcome following severe head injury in 85 children are presented. The commonest initial CT diagnosis was of acute brain swelling. This swelling was associated with an increased white matter density on the CT scan which decreased to normal concomitant with recovery and increased ventricular size. CBF measurements in 6 of these patients revealed an increased blood flow despite a decreased CMRO2 and clinical coma. This CT pattern of diffuse swelling is believed to be due to acute cerebrovascular congestion and hyperemia and not to edema. Because of this, all children were treated with endotracheal intubation and controlled hyperventilation as part of the initial management. Mass lesions were uncommon, 20%. ICP was monitored in 40 children. The ICP rose above 20 Torr despite therapy in 80% of children with decerebrate or flaccid coma and in only 20% of children with spontaneous motor function. The ICP was at its highest between the second and fifth day. Aggressive therapy to control the ICP, with barbiturates if necessary, was successful in 80% of the patients. The overall results were useful recovery in 87.5% of the children, 3.5% were left vegetative or severely disabled and 9% died.", "PMID": 456099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12011", "title": "Prophylactic craniofacial surgery.", "content": "One-stage radical reconstructive surgery for the common craniofacial deformities has become standard procedure in a few medical centers. With increasing experience and expertise, young children and adolescents, as well as a few adults have been greatly benefited. It has long been recognized that both the cranial and facial deformities of Couzon's disease and Apert's syndrome are progressive, having their inception either before birth or in the neonatal period, and evolving to the full blown syndrome during the first years of life. The authors believe that the progressive nature of these anomalies is secondary to a combination of permaturely fused sutures of the calvarium and cranial base (coronal, sphenozygomatic, frontoethmoidal and frontosphenoidal). In an effort to arrest and correct both the cranial and facial deformities as well as obviate the need for future radical surgery the authors have treated several children with Crouzon's disease and Apert's syndrome with suture craniectomy along the base of the skull. Following this procedure, deformity has regressed and ultimate cosmetic improvement has been dramatic. It is unlikely that radical craniofacial surgery will be necessary in this group of patients at any future time. On the basis of this experience, it is believed that the pendulum is now swinging and that in the future, stripping of the appropriate sutures along the base of the skull will limit deformity and make additional surgery unnecessary.", "contents": "Prophylactic craniofacial surgery. One-stage radical reconstructive surgery for the common craniofacial deformities has become standard procedure in a few medical centers. With increasing experience and expertise, young children and adolescents, as well as a few adults have been greatly benefited. It has long been recognized that both the cranial and facial deformities of Couzon's disease and Apert's syndrome are progressive, having their inception either before birth or in the neonatal period, and evolving to the full blown syndrome during the first years of life. The authors believe that the progressive nature of these anomalies is secondary to a combination of permaturely fused sutures of the calvarium and cranial base (coronal, sphenozygomatic, frontoethmoidal and frontosphenoidal). In an effort to arrest and correct both the cranial and facial deformities as well as obviate the need for future radical surgery the authors have treated several children with Crouzon's disease and Apert's syndrome with suture craniectomy along the base of the skull. Following this procedure, deformity has regressed and ultimate cosmetic improvement has been dramatic. It is unlikely that radical craniofacial surgery will be necessary in this group of patients at any future time. On the basis of this experience, it is believed that the pendulum is now swinging and that in the future, stripping of the appropriate sutures along the base of the skull will limit deformity and make additional surgery unnecessary.", "PMID": 456100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12012", "title": "Physiopathology and a new treatment of chronic subdural hematoma in children.", "content": "Chronic collections of fluid in the subdural spaces may result from trauma or may complicate meningitis. The etiological factor, or factors, which contribute to chronicity of subdural fluid in children remains obscure. We postulate that one possible mechanism is the progressive stretching and narrowing of the cortical veins, bridging the subarachnoid and subdural spaces to enter the superior sagittal sinus. This process ultimately leads to thrombosis of these 'hanging veins'. Narrowing and angulation of these veins could result in elevated back pressure favoring the formation of a transudate. 16 children who had progressive and persistent collections of xanthochromic fluid in the subdural spaces secondary to trauma or infection who were treated previously either with subdural tap, burr holes, subdural peritoneal shunt, craniotomy, stripping of membranes and/or a combination of these, were treated by lowering and advancing the superior sagittal sinus with its overlying sagittal suture and performing a duraplasty. This new surgical technique is directed to improve venous drainage from the superior anastomotic vein into the superior sagittal sinus. Angiographic follow-up showed that only 2 patients still have evidence of fluid collection: the rest of the patients showed normal arterial phases, the medullary system was minimally filled and all of these showed remarkable improvement of the venous drainage throughout the superficial cortical veins with no evidence of hanging veins. Intellectual development of these children following lowering of the superior sagittal sinus showed that 8 patients (50%) were normal or above normal; 5 patients (31.2%) were retarded and 3 patients (18.7%) were borderline.", "contents": "Physiopathology and a new treatment of chronic subdural hematoma in children. Chronic collections of fluid in the subdural spaces may result from trauma or may complicate meningitis. The etiological factor, or factors, which contribute to chronicity of subdural fluid in children remains obscure. We postulate that one possible mechanism is the progressive stretching and narrowing of the cortical veins, bridging the subarachnoid and subdural spaces to enter the superior sagittal sinus. This process ultimately leads to thrombosis of these 'hanging veins'. Narrowing and angulation of these veins could result in elevated back pressure favoring the formation of a transudate. 16 children who had progressive and persistent collections of xanthochromic fluid in the subdural spaces secondary to trauma or infection who were treated previously either with subdural tap, burr holes, subdural peritoneal shunt, craniotomy, stripping of membranes and/or a combination of these, were treated by lowering and advancing the superior sagittal sinus with its overlying sagittal suture and performing a duraplasty. This new surgical technique is directed to improve venous drainage from the superior anastomotic vein into the superior sagittal sinus. Angiographic follow-up showed that only 2 patients still have evidence of fluid collection: the rest of the patients showed normal arterial phases, the medullary system was minimally filled and all of these showed remarkable improvement of the venous drainage throughout the superficial cortical veins with no evidence of hanging veins. Intellectual development of these children following lowering of the superior sagittal sinus showed that 8 patients (50%) were normal or above normal; 5 patients (31.2%) were retarded and 3 patients (18.7%) were borderline.", "PMID": 456101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12013", "title": "Hemispherectomy for Sturge-Weber syndrome.", "content": "Patients with Sturge-Weber disease who have the onset of seizures in infancy invariably face a progressively downhill course which leaves them severely hemiplegic, demented and usually institutionalized because of uncontrolled seizures. During the past 12 years, we have carried out 6 hemispherectomies in infants under 1 year of age who presented with seizures and Sturge-Weber disease. The results have been gratifying. Seizures have stopped, hemipareses have been minimal and intellectual development has been good.", "contents": "Hemispherectomy for Sturge-Weber syndrome. Patients with Sturge-Weber disease who have the onset of seizures in infancy invariably face a progressively downhill course which leaves them severely hemiplegic, demented and usually institutionalized because of uncontrolled seizures. During the past 12 years, we have carried out 6 hemispherectomies in infants under 1 year of age who presented with seizures and Sturge-Weber disease. The results have been gratifying. Seizures have stopped, hemipareses have been minimal and intellectual development has been good.", "PMID": 456102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12014", "title": "Analysis of therapeutic modalities for head-injured children.", "content": "The various stages and therapeutic modalities in the management of children with moderate and severe head injuries is reviewed. Emphasis on aggressive management upon arrival to the emergency room, and continuing until brain swelling has definitely resolved, is stressed. Management includes prompt endotracheal intubation and hyperventilation, arterial and venous lines and bladder catheter insertion. Computed tomography to assess underlying pathology, intracranial pressure monitoring for appropriate therapy should follow. In this way mannitol, other diuretics, hypothermia and barbiturate coma can be decided on, and the response assessed. The role of high dose steroids is discussed.", "contents": "Analysis of therapeutic modalities for head-injured children. The various stages and therapeutic modalities in the management of children with moderate and severe head injuries is reviewed. Emphasis on aggressive management upon arrival to the emergency room, and continuing until brain swelling has definitely resolved, is stressed. Management includes prompt endotracheal intubation and hyperventilation, arterial and venous lines and bladder catheter insertion. Computed tomography to assess underlying pathology, intracranial pressure monitoring for appropriate therapy should follow. In this way mannitol, other diuretics, hypothermia and barbiturate coma can be decided on, and the response assessed. The role of high dose steroids is discussed.", "PMID": 456103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12015", "title": "Neuropsychological outcome of closed head injury in children and adolescents.", "content": "45 children and adolescents recovering from closed head injury underwent neuropsychological testing. Multiple indices were used to classify the severity of injury but most important in this study were the persistence of coma indexed by grades I--III and the Glasgow Coma Scale. Although the presence of early neuropsychological sequelae and long-term intellectual deficit was generally related to the severity of injury, residual impairment was also found in patients with relatively mild injuries. Analysis of memory and learning demonstrated disruption of both storage and retrieval processes.", "contents": "Neuropsychological outcome of closed head injury in children and adolescents. 45 children and adolescents recovering from closed head injury underwent neuropsychological testing. Multiple indices were used to classify the severity of injury but most important in this study were the persistence of coma indexed by grades I--III and the Glasgow Coma Scale. Although the presence of early neuropsychological sequelae and long-term intellectual deficit was generally related to the severity of injury, residual impairment was also found in patients with relatively mild injuries. Analysis of memory and learning demonstrated disruption of both storage and retrieval processes.", "PMID": 456104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12016", "title": "Management of ventricular shunt infections.", "content": "The authors report the incidence (2.7%) of shunt infection in a series of 778 consecutive shunt procedures. The management of these infections and an additional group of infected patients operated elsewhere is discussed. A protocol is given for the treatment of external infections, gram-positive internal infections and gram-negative internal infections.", "contents": "Management of ventricular shunt infections. The authors report the incidence (2.7%) of shunt infection in a series of 778 consecutive shunt procedures. The management of these infections and an additional group of infected patients operated elsewhere is discussed. A protocol is given for the treatment of external infections, gram-positive internal infections and gram-negative internal infections.", "PMID": 456105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12017", "title": "Medulloblastoma in childhood: comparative results of partial and total resection.", "content": "51 medulloblastomas under 12 years of age were treated from 1966 through 1977. 50 patients underwent craniotomy and 39 of them completed postoperative radiation therapy. Surgical mortality rate of primary posterior fossa craniotomy was 8%. One year survival rate was 71.4%, 3 years 45.6% and 5 years 34.5%. Extent of surgical resection was found to affect the survival, and a group of radical or visibly total resection showed higher postoperative survival. Female patients enjoyed longer survival. The patients under 12 months of age showed poor prognosis. Reexploration of the posterior fossa failed to prolong the survival by more than 3 months.", "contents": "Medulloblastoma in childhood: comparative results of partial and total resection. 51 medulloblastomas under 12 years of age were treated from 1966 through 1977. 50 patients underwent craniotomy and 39 of them completed postoperative radiation therapy. Surgical mortality rate of primary posterior fossa craniotomy was 8%. One year survival rate was 71.4%, 3 years 45.6% and 5 years 34.5%. Extent of surgical resection was found to affect the survival, and a group of radical or visibly total resection showed higher postoperative survival. Female patients enjoyed longer survival. The patients under 12 months of age showed poor prognosis. Reexploration of the posterior fossa failed to prolong the survival by more than 3 months.", "PMID": 456106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12018", "title": "Biopsy of pediatric brain stem tumors.", "content": "26 patients, average age of 7.3 years, has biopsies of a brain stem tumor. 62% of the patients presented with hydrocephalus, and ventriculoperitoneal shunts were placed 7-10 days prior to biopsy. The midbrain was biopsied 13 times, the pons 3 and the medulla 12 times. Tissue for histopathologic examination was obtained at each operation and demonstrated astrocytoma in 13 patients, glioblastoma in 6, 'no tumor seen' in 5 and ependymoma in 2. Astrocytomas were usually located in the upper brain stem, and all of the glioblastomas were located in the medulla. The operative mortality was zero, and the morbidity was largely related to increased cranial nerve deficit. All the astrocytoma patients were treated with radiation only; whereas, 4 patients with glioblastoma were treated with vincristine, CCNU and methylprednisone in addition to radiation as described by the Children's Cancer Study Group (CCG-944). 3 patients with 'no tumor' were not treated and are alive and well 15-41 months following operation. 2 patients with no tumor were treated, one as a glioblastoma multiforme, subsequently verified at postmortem examination, and one as a midbrain astrocytoma. 1 patient with astrocytoma died 3 months following operation, all the remainder are living and well 4-51 months following operation. Irrespective of the treatment, all 7 patients with glioblastoma expired within 9 months of diagnosis. The prognosis for survival for patients with brain stem astrocytoma is superior to those with glioblastoma multiforme. Specific histopathologic correlation with clinical management may lead to improved and prolonged survival for patients with brain stem glioma.", "contents": "Biopsy of pediatric brain stem tumors. 26 patients, average age of 7.3 years, has biopsies of a brain stem tumor. 62% of the patients presented with hydrocephalus, and ventriculoperitoneal shunts were placed 7-10 days prior to biopsy. The midbrain was biopsied 13 times, the pons 3 and the medulla 12 times. Tissue for histopathologic examination was obtained at each operation and demonstrated astrocytoma in 13 patients, glioblastoma in 6, 'no tumor seen' in 5 and ependymoma in 2. Astrocytomas were usually located in the upper brain stem, and all of the glioblastomas were located in the medulla. The operative mortality was zero, and the morbidity was largely related to increased cranial nerve deficit. All the astrocytoma patients were treated with radiation only; whereas, 4 patients with glioblastoma were treated with vincristine, CCNU and methylprednisone in addition to radiation as described by the Children's Cancer Study Group (CCG-944). 3 patients with 'no tumor' were not treated and are alive and well 15-41 months following operation. 2 patients with no tumor were treated, one as a glioblastoma multiforme, subsequently verified at postmortem examination, and one as a midbrain astrocytoma. 1 patient with astrocytoma died 3 months following operation, all the remainder are living and well 4-51 months following operation. Irrespective of the treatment, all 7 patients with glioblastoma expired within 9 months of diagnosis. The prognosis for survival for patients with brain stem astrocytoma is superior to those with glioblastoma multiforme. Specific histopathologic correlation with clinical management may lead to improved and prolonged survival for patients with brain stem glioma.", "PMID": 456107} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12019", "title": "Arteriovenous malformations of the spinal cord in children.", "content": "Spinal arterivenous malformations occur in the pediatric age range more commonly than previously acknowledged. An analysis of 64 cases with onset under 18 years of age demonstrates pain to be the most common first symptom. A long delay to diagnosis permits development of significant paresis or plegia in the majority. Correctly performed myelography (with supine views) provided the diagnosis in 60%. A radical microsurgical excision appears to offer the best long-term results.", "contents": "Arteriovenous malformations of the spinal cord in children. Spinal arterivenous malformations occur in the pediatric age range more commonly than previously acknowledged. An analysis of 64 cases with onset under 18 years of age demonstrates pain to be the most common first symptom. A long delay to diagnosis permits development of significant paresis or plegia in the majority. Correctly performed myelography (with supine views) provided the diagnosis in 60%. A radical microsurgical excision appears to offer the best long-term results.", "PMID": 456108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12020", "title": "B waves--a reflection of cardiorespiratory or cerebral nervous systems rhythm?", "content": "A review of 92 consecutive shunt revisions is presented in an attempt to assess the contribution of computerized axial tomography to the long-term management of the child with shunted hydrocephalus. 20-22 percent of all cases of acute shunt malfunction presented with small ventricles, indicating that absence of ventricular enlargement should not be interpreted as demonstrating adequate shunt function. The single most useful application of computerized axial tomography in our hands is the detection of indolent shunt malfunction associated with ventriculomegaly and decline of cognitive function in the older child.", "contents": "B waves--a reflection of cardiorespiratory or cerebral nervous systems rhythm? A review of 92 consecutive shunt revisions is presented in an attempt to assess the contribution of computerized axial tomography to the long-term management of the child with shunted hydrocephalus. 20-22 percent of all cases of acute shunt malfunction presented with small ventricles, indicating that absence of ventricular enlargement should not be interpreted as demonstrating adequate shunt function. The single most useful application of computerized axial tomography in our hands is the detection of indolent shunt malfunction associated with ventriculomegaly and decline of cognitive function in the older child.", "PMID": 456109} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12021", "title": "Klippel-Feil syndrome, iniencephalus, anencephalus, hindbrain hernia and mirror movements: overdistention of the neural tube.", "content": "Bony anomalies encountered in the 'no neck' form of Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) are a wide, short, fused, bifid, retroflexed spinal canal; craniolacunia, cranium bifidum, and acrania. The only symptom may be mirror movement (MM). The CNS anomalies are hindbrain hernia, hydrocephalus, hydromyelia, syringomyelia, meningocele, myelocele, encephalocele, and anencephalus. In severe KFS, i.e. iniencephalus (IN) and in anencephalus (AN), the inion is in contact with the back. In both there is hindbrain hernia and the left thorax may contain the stomach tethered to an anterior spina bifida. KFS results from distortion of somites by an overdistended neural tube. A neural tube that fails to close cannot overdistend.", "contents": "Klippel-Feil syndrome, iniencephalus, anencephalus, hindbrain hernia and mirror movements: overdistention of the neural tube. Bony anomalies encountered in the 'no neck' form of Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) are a wide, short, fused, bifid, retroflexed spinal canal; craniolacunia, cranium bifidum, and acrania. The only symptom may be mirror movement (MM). The CNS anomalies are hindbrain hernia, hydrocephalus, hydromyelia, syringomyelia, meningocele, myelocele, encephalocele, and anencephalus. In severe KFS, i.e. iniencephalus (IN) and in anencephalus (AN), the inion is in contact with the back. In both there is hindbrain hernia and the left thorax may contain the stomach tethered to an anterior spina bifida. KFS results from distortion of somites by an overdistended neural tube. A neural tube that fails to close cannot overdistend.", "PMID": 456110} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12022", "title": "The physiopathogenetic basis for the angiographic diagnosis of bacterial infections of the brain and its coverings in children. II. Cerebritis and brain abscess.", "content": "Most of the small (50--60 micrometers) vessels nourish exclusively the cerebral cortex, whereas larger caliber (80--150 micrometers) arteries penetrate the entirety of the cortical layer to enter the underlying white matter. A single layer of nonfenestrated endothelial cells, surrounded by a continuous layer of basement membrane (which in places splits to envelope a pericyte), and perivascular glial cells attached to the outer surface of this basement membrane, with no pericapillary space, represent the anatomical structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Concentrated electrolyte solutions and increases in mean arterial pressure may reopen the BBB. Water-soluble contrast media used in cerebral angiography are hypertonic solutions of iodinated salts. In cerebritis, one observes a very typical angiographic picture: 'laminar' staining of the gyri. The intervening sulci appear as negative images. In brain abscess, one may note angiographic evidence of a space-occupying lesion, a capsular stain in the granulation tissue surrounding the abscess, 'halo' formation and 'pooling' of contrast media in the sulci, and 'laminar' staining of the gyri.", "contents": "The physiopathogenetic basis for the angiographic diagnosis of bacterial infections of the brain and its coverings in children. II. Cerebritis and brain abscess. Most of the small (50--60 micrometers) vessels nourish exclusively the cerebral cortex, whereas larger caliber (80--150 micrometers) arteries penetrate the entirety of the cortical layer to enter the underlying white matter. A single layer of nonfenestrated endothelial cells, surrounded by a continuous layer of basement membrane (which in places splits to envelope a pericyte), and perivascular glial cells attached to the outer surface of this basement membrane, with no pericapillary space, represent the anatomical structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Concentrated electrolyte solutions and increases in mean arterial pressure may reopen the BBB. Water-soluble contrast media used in cerebral angiography are hypertonic solutions of iodinated salts. In cerebritis, one observes a very typical angiographic picture: 'laminar' staining of the gyri. The intervening sulci appear as negative images. In brain abscess, one may note angiographic evidence of a space-occupying lesion, a capsular stain in the granulation tissue surrounding the abscess, 'halo' formation and 'pooling' of contrast media in the sulci, and 'laminar' staining of the gyri.", "PMID": 456111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12023", "title": "Seeding of intracranial ependymomas in children.", "content": "19 cases of intracranial ependymomas were reviewed to determine the incidence of seeding. 4 patients demonstrated conclusive evidence of seeding in sites remote from the operative and irradiated field, 3 of whom had high-grade ependymomas. Clinical-pathological correlation disclosed a greater tendency to seeding and a worse prognosis among patients with high-grade ependymomas. A more aggressive therapeutic approach is indicated when high-grade ependymomas are involved.", "contents": "Seeding of intracranial ependymomas in children. 19 cases of intracranial ependymomas were reviewed to determine the incidence of seeding. 4 patients demonstrated conclusive evidence of seeding in sites remote from the operative and irradiated field, 3 of whom had high-grade ependymomas. Clinical-pathological correlation disclosed a greater tendency to seeding and a worse prognosis among patients with high-grade ependymomas. A more aggressive therapeutic approach is indicated when high-grade ependymomas are involved.", "PMID": 456112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12024", "title": "Hydrocephalus in myelomeningocele.", "content": "156 children born with myelomeningocele were studied over a 3- to 10-year follow-up period. The appearance, type and rate of development of hydrocephalus were noted and correlated with the findings on neonatal and follow-up physical examination. 80% of the children developed overt hydrocephalus; 73.4% of these cases were secondary to aqueductal stenosis. Only 15.3% of the cases showed physical evidence of hydrocephalus at birth. Another 64.8% of the children developed clinical signs of hydrocephalus during the follow-up period, most during the first few weeks but some as late as the third year of life. The neonatal examination is unable to predict the subsequent appearance of hydrocephalus or its rate of development, and even serial determinations of head circumference are often of limited value. The authors conclude that the early diagnosis of hydrocephalus in children with myelomeningocele cannot reliably be made on physical examination alone and that other means of assessing ventricular size should be employed.", "contents": "Hydrocephalus in myelomeningocele. 156 children born with myelomeningocele were studied over a 3- to 10-year follow-up period. The appearance, type and rate of development of hydrocephalus were noted and correlated with the findings on neonatal and follow-up physical examination. 80% of the children developed overt hydrocephalus; 73.4% of these cases were secondary to aqueductal stenosis. Only 15.3% of the cases showed physical evidence of hydrocephalus at birth. Another 64.8% of the children developed clinical signs of hydrocephalus during the follow-up period, most during the first few weeks but some as late as the third year of life. The neonatal examination is unable to predict the subsequent appearance of hydrocephalus or its rate of development, and even serial determinations of head circumference are often of limited value. The authors conclude that the early diagnosis of hydrocephalus in children with myelomeningocele cannot reliably be made on physical examination alone and that other means of assessing ventricular size should be employed.", "PMID": 456113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12025", "title": "Peculiar congenital parieto-occipital head tumor: report of 3 cases.", "content": "3 infantile cases of congenital parieto-occipital midline soft tumor, the clinical and pathological findings of which did not correspond precisely to a known congenital head tumor, are reported. One of them probably belongs to McLaurin's type of encephalocele with heterotopic glial rest, and the remaining two to McLaurin's type of meningocele without central connection. The types of anomaly shown by the present cases should generally be called 'atretic cephalocele' or 'rudimentary cephalocele'.", "contents": "Peculiar congenital parieto-occipital head tumor: report of 3 cases. 3 infantile cases of congenital parieto-occipital midline soft tumor, the clinical and pathological findings of which did not correspond precisely to a known congenital head tumor, are reported. One of them probably belongs to McLaurin's type of encephalocele with heterotopic glial rest, and the remaining two to McLaurin's type of meningocele without central connection. The types of anomaly shown by the present cases should generally be called 'atretic cephalocele' or 'rudimentary cephalocele'.", "PMID": 456114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12026", "title": "[Preoperative detection of antrum mucosa in patients with peptic ulcer following gastric secretion -- indication for reintervention?].", "content": "In 6 of 23 patients with marginal ulcer after gastric resection (B II and Roux-Y anastomosis) a retained (\"excluded\") gastric antrum attached to the duodenal stump was detected by 99mTC pertechnetate scintiphotography; serum gastrin levels were normal in two of those cases. Resection has been abandoned as a treatment method, and transthoracic vagotomy is recommended for this disease.", "contents": "[Preoperative detection of antrum mucosa in patients with peptic ulcer following gastric secretion -- indication for reintervention?]. In 6 of 23 patients with marginal ulcer after gastric resection (B II and Roux-Y anastomosis) a retained (\"excluded\") gastric antrum attached to the duodenal stump was detected by 99mTC pertechnetate scintiphotography; serum gastrin levels were normal in two of those cases. Resection has been abandoned as a treatment method, and transthoracic vagotomy is recommended for this disease.", "PMID": 456115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12027", "title": "[Comparative endoscopic, light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy studies of the gastric mucosa in patients with chronic uremia].", "content": "Ten patients suffering from chronic uremia were selected for comparison studies of gastric mucosa. With endoscopy erosive gastritis was seen in the corpus and antrum of five patients and in the fundus of two patients. Conventional microscopy (nine patients) revealed chronic gastritis I three times in the fundus and five times in the corpus. Gastritis II was localized once in the corpus and twice in the antrum. Gastritis III was present in the antrum of four patients. Under the scanning electron microscope lesions of gastric mucosa were present in all ten cases. Single cell necrosis (A), mucosal defects involving basal membrane (B), destruction of tunica propria (C), and muscularis mucosae with bleeding (D) were seen. Mucosal lesions A and B are early stages of gastric erosions. The most severe lesions were seen in the antrum mucosa with all three methods.", "contents": "[Comparative endoscopic, light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy studies of the gastric mucosa in patients with chronic uremia]. Ten patients suffering from chronic uremia were selected for comparison studies of gastric mucosa. With endoscopy erosive gastritis was seen in the corpus and antrum of five patients and in the fundus of two patients. Conventional microscopy (nine patients) revealed chronic gastritis I three times in the fundus and five times in the corpus. Gastritis II was localized once in the corpus and twice in the antrum. Gastritis III was present in the antrum of four patients. Under the scanning electron microscope lesions of gastric mucosa were present in all ten cases. Single cell necrosis (A), mucosal defects involving basal membrane (B), destruction of tunica propria (C), and muscularis mucosae with bleeding (D) were seen. Mucosal lesions A and B are early stages of gastric erosions. The most severe lesions were seen in the antrum mucosa with all three methods.", "PMID": 456116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12028", "title": "[Vein substitution using PTFE prosthesis--results of animal experiments and initial clinical experiences].", "content": "The expanded PTFE prosthesis (Gore Tex), which has been used for 4 years as an artery substitute, was examined in the \"low-pressure system\" in dogs. In 23 dogs an infrarenal segment of the vena cava was resected and substituted by a Gore Tex prosthesis. In nine dogs an arteriovenous shunt between the right iliac artery and the corresponding vein was also performed. Phlebographic examinations were made 8 days after the operation and at monthly intervals thereafter. After a mean period of 233 days the dogs were killed and histopathologic and electron microscopic analyses performed. Patency was found in 89% of transplants with, and 86% of transplants without, the arteriovenous shunt. Aafter these experiments the Gore Tex prosthesis was implanted successfully in patients suffering from postthrombotic syndrome to serve as a substitute for the superior vena cava and iliac vein. It also acted as a substitute for the jugular vein after neck dissection.", "contents": "[Vein substitution using PTFE prosthesis--results of animal experiments and initial clinical experiences]. The expanded PTFE prosthesis (Gore Tex), which has been used for 4 years as an artery substitute, was examined in the \"low-pressure system\" in dogs. In 23 dogs an infrarenal segment of the vena cava was resected and substituted by a Gore Tex prosthesis. In nine dogs an arteriovenous shunt between the right iliac artery and the corresponding vein was also performed. Phlebographic examinations were made 8 days after the operation and at monthly intervals thereafter. After a mean period of 233 days the dogs were killed and histopathologic and electron microscopic analyses performed. Patency was found in 89% of transplants with, and 86% of transplants without, the arteriovenous shunt. Aafter these experiments the Gore Tex prosthesis was implanted successfully in patients suffering from postthrombotic syndrome to serve as a substitute for the superior vena cava and iliac vein. It also acted as a substitute for the jugular vein after neck dissection.", "PMID": 456117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12029", "title": "[The effect of somatostatin on the ileocecal sphincter (ICS) before and after extensive small bowel resection].", "content": "The ileocoecal sphincter pressure of rabbits was studied under somatostatin infusion before and after subtotal small bowel resection. Before resection, somatostatin increased the pressure necessary to pass fluid through this zone according to the applied doses. Seven days after resection, a decrease in the ileocoecal sphincter pressure was found, which could not be affected by somatostatin infusion. One year after resection, the reflux pressure was again normal, and the somatostatin effect was similar as to that before resection.", "contents": "[The effect of somatostatin on the ileocecal sphincter (ICS) before and after extensive small bowel resection]. The ileocoecal sphincter pressure of rabbits was studied under somatostatin infusion before and after subtotal small bowel resection. Before resection, somatostatin increased the pressure necessary to pass fluid through this zone according to the applied doses. Seven days after resection, a decrease in the ileocoecal sphincter pressure was found, which could not be affected by somatostatin infusion. One year after resection, the reflux pressure was again normal, and the somatostatin effect was similar as to that before resection.", "PMID": 456118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12030", "title": "[Animal experiments in stagnant loop syndrome].", "content": "Using the perfusion technique, the absorption of water, sodium, and glucose was studied in a partial occlusion of the intestine. In this study we investigated the mucosal enzyme, the metabolic changes of the small bowel wall, and the morphology of the mucosa. The reason for the decreased absorption of glucose, sodium, and water in the prestenotic phase may be the increased proliferation of the mucosa. The decreased absorption of the glucose, sodium and water in the poststenotic phase may be caused by an atrophy of the mucosa.", "contents": "[Animal experiments in stagnant loop syndrome]. Using the perfusion technique, the absorption of water, sodium, and glucose was studied in a partial occlusion of the intestine. In this study we investigated the mucosal enzyme, the metabolic changes of the small bowel wall, and the morphology of the mucosa. The reason for the decreased absorption of glucose, sodium, and water in the prestenotic phase may be the increased proliferation of the mucosa. The decreased absorption of the glucose, sodium and water in the poststenotic phase may be caused by an atrophy of the mucosa.", "PMID": 456119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12031", "title": "[Free jejunum graft as substitute of the cervical esophagus done with microsurgical technic--morphological and functional results in long-term studies].", "content": "It is possible to undertake a free transplantation of the jejunum with a low rate of thrombosis by a microsurgical technique of vascular anastomosis. The animals could be nourished sufficiently via the interponate with pasty food. Peristalsis within the interponate was retained. Stenoses caused by a periluminar cicatrix are possible. After 1 year a transformation of connective tissue of the interponate was not observed.", "contents": "[Free jejunum graft as substitute of the cervical esophagus done with microsurgical technic--morphological and functional results in long-term studies]. It is possible to undertake a free transplantation of the jejunum with a low rate of thrombosis by a microsurgical technique of vascular anastomosis. The animals could be nourished sufficiently via the interponate with pasty food. Peristalsis within the interponate was retained. Stenoses caused by a periluminar cicatrix are possible. After 1 year a transformation of connective tissue of the interponate was not observed.", "PMID": 456120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12032", "title": "[Functional and morphological studies on diverticulosis of the large bowel].", "content": "In comparison to the normal colon, longitudinal and circular musculature in diverticular disease (DD) was investigated--regarding motility and morphology--and a comparative measurement between musculature and mucosa was also performed with following results: 1. Only the tenia in DD revealed a spastically contracted muscle. 2. There was a ribbon formation due to contraction only in tenias of DD, although there was hypertrophy in both muscle groups. 3. The longitudinal muscle in DD was found to be shortened.", "contents": "[Functional and morphological studies on diverticulosis of the large bowel]. In comparison to the normal colon, longitudinal and circular musculature in diverticular disease (DD) was investigated--regarding motility and morphology--and a comparative measurement between musculature and mucosa was also performed with following results: 1. Only the tenia in DD revealed a spastically contracted muscle. 2. There was a ribbon formation due to contraction only in tenias of DD, although there was hypertrophy in both muscle groups. 3. The longitudinal muscle in DD was found to be shortened.", "PMID": 456121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12033", "title": "[A method for differentiation between the participation of the smooth and the cross-striated anal sphincter muscles in resting tonus].", "content": "By means of simultaneous recordings of the external anal sphincter EMG activity and the anal resting pressure with at least ten voluntary sphincter contractions, it is possible to estimate by correlation calculation the resting pressure exerted by the internal anal sphincter. The value of the method had been proved by comparing investigations in conscious and curarized patients under general anesthesia. In patients with hemorrhoids and chronic constipation, the amount of internal pressure found in the resting tonus (91% in hemorrhoids, 55% in chronic constipation) was significantly different when compared with a health group. The comparison of only the resting pressure did not show a significant difference.", "contents": "[A method for differentiation between the participation of the smooth and the cross-striated anal sphincter muscles in resting tonus]. By means of simultaneous recordings of the external anal sphincter EMG activity and the anal resting pressure with at least ten voluntary sphincter contractions, it is possible to estimate by correlation calculation the resting pressure exerted by the internal anal sphincter. The value of the method had been proved by comparing investigations in conscious and curarized patients under general anesthesia. In patients with hemorrhoids and chronic constipation, the amount of internal pressure found in the resting tonus (91% in hemorrhoids, 55% in chronic constipation) was significantly different when compared with a health group. The comparison of only the resting pressure did not show a significant difference.", "PMID": 456122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12034", "title": "[Surgical technic to alleviate anal incontinence using a magnetic anal closure].", "content": "Available operative procedures to reduce incontinence are gracilis transplant, levator plastic, free muscle transplantation and pacemakers. Further procedures being tested in clinical trials are electronic cuffs, modified Scott's sphincters, and implantation of cuffs of unstriated muscle. The magnetic anal ring, which has been developed in Erlangen, consists of two halves. Using a sacral approach both parts can be placed around the rectum without opening the bowels. An anal tampon consisting of a magnetic tampon and a tampon covering is responsible for occlusion. The tampon covering consists of polyvinylformalfoam, which guarantees an excellent plugging. Application is similar to tampons for menstruation; tampons can be changed three times a day and the bowel can be emptied normally when a change is made. In order to work successfully the tampon is pressure adapted to the pressure profile of the large bowel. Histologic investigations of the mucosa did not show any alterations. Megacolon or megarectum proximal to the anal ring did not occur.", "contents": "[Surgical technic to alleviate anal incontinence using a magnetic anal closure]. Available operative procedures to reduce incontinence are gracilis transplant, levator plastic, free muscle transplantation and pacemakers. Further procedures being tested in clinical trials are electronic cuffs, modified Scott's sphincters, and implantation of cuffs of unstriated muscle. The magnetic anal ring, which has been developed in Erlangen, consists of two halves. Using a sacral approach both parts can be placed around the rectum without opening the bowels. An anal tampon consisting of a magnetic tampon and a tampon covering is responsible for occlusion. The tampon covering consists of polyvinylformalfoam, which guarantees an excellent plugging. Application is similar to tampons for menstruation; tampons can be changed three times a day and the bowel can be emptied normally when a change is made. In order to work successfully the tampon is pressure adapted to the pressure profile of the large bowel. Histologic investigations of the mucosa did not show any alterations. Megacolon or megarectum proximal to the anal ring did not occur.", "PMID": 456123} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12035", "title": "[A mathematical model for the determination of loss of venous capacitance using impedance plethysmography].", "content": "The results of impedance plethysmographic examination were evaluated by a mathematical curve analysis. The magnitude of the exponential coefficient of the saturation and discharge function provides a highly accurate measure of the loss of functionality. The percentage change in the flow rate may be obtained by substitution of the exponential coefficients in a model formula.", "contents": "[A mathematical model for the determination of loss of venous capacitance using impedance plethysmography]. The results of impedance plethysmographic examination were evaluated by a mathematical curve analysis. The magnitude of the exponential coefficient of the saturation and discharge function provides a highly accurate measure of the loss of functionality. The percentage change in the flow rate may be obtained by substitution of the exponential coefficients in a model formula.", "PMID": 456124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12036", "title": "[Xenotransplantation of human breast cancer in athymic nude mice].", "content": "Of 150 human breast cancers, 90 (60%) were successfully transplanted onto thymusaplastic nude mice without the use of adjunctive immunosuppressive therapy. Four months after transplantation, 12 rapidly growing tumors had diameters of 2.5-3.5 cm. Investigations revealed a high correlation between the histology of original tumors and xenografts. We conclude that the nude mouse may be used as an animal model for studies such as this, or in determining the sensitivity of transplanted tumors to cytostatic drugs, steroid hormones, and radiation.", "contents": "[Xenotransplantation of human breast cancer in athymic nude mice]. Of 150 human breast cancers, 90 (60%) were successfully transplanted onto thymusaplastic nude mice without the use of adjunctive immunosuppressive therapy. Four months after transplantation, 12 rapidly growing tumors had diameters of 2.5-3.5 cm. Investigations revealed a high correlation between the histology of original tumors and xenografts. We conclude that the nude mouse may be used as an animal model for studies such as this, or in determining the sensitivity of transplanted tumors to cytostatic drugs, steroid hormones, and radiation.", "PMID": 456125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12037", "title": "[Topical differences in estrogen receptor content of primary breast cancer].", "content": "In 50 primary cancers of the mammary gland, tissue samples from three different parts of each tumor were analyzed for estrogen content by agar gel electrophoresis. In 12 tumors receptor-rich and receptor-poor zones were detected within the tumor for the 4-s fraction, and in 11 tumors for the 8-s fraction. Confidence limits (99%) indicate that these findings might range from 10.4% to 42.5% for the 4-s fraction, and 10.2%-44.1% for the 8-s fraction.", "contents": "[Topical differences in estrogen receptor content of primary breast cancer]. In 50 primary cancers of the mammary gland, tissue samples from three different parts of each tumor were analyzed for estrogen content by agar gel electrophoresis. In 12 tumors receptor-rich and receptor-poor zones were detected within the tumor for the 4-s fraction, and in 11 tumors for the 8-s fraction. Confidence limits (99%) indicate that these findings might range from 10.4% to 42.5% for the 4-s fraction, and 10.2%-44.1% for the 8-s fraction.", "PMID": 456126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12038", "title": "[Effect of estradiol on RNA biosynthesis of human breast carcinoma cells in vitro].", "content": "The possibility of differentiating estrogen-sensitive human breast cancer using incorporation studies with labeled uridine as a precursor of RNA metabolism is described. The purpose of this study was to explore inadequate function of the estrogen receptor as an alternative or supplementary aid in selecting patients for hormonal manipulation. The disadvantage of the test is that only hormone dependence of a proliferating tumor cell population can be evaluated. Highly differentiated breast cancer cells exhibit the greatest estrogen sensitivity. The hormone-dependent tumors of premenopausal women show an increase in RNA synthesis, whereas uridine incorporation appeared to be inhibited in postmenopausal women.", "contents": "[Effect of estradiol on RNA biosynthesis of human breast carcinoma cells in vitro]. The possibility of differentiating estrogen-sensitive human breast cancer using incorporation studies with labeled uridine as a precursor of RNA metabolism is described. The purpose of this study was to explore inadequate function of the estrogen receptor as an alternative or supplementary aid in selecting patients for hormonal manipulation. The disadvantage of the test is that only hormone dependence of a proliferating tumor cell population can be evaluated. Highly differentiated breast cancer cells exhibit the greatest estrogen sensitivity. The hormone-dependent tumors of premenopausal women show an increase in RNA synthesis, whereas uridine incorporation appeared to be inhibited in postmenopausal women.", "PMID": 456127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12039", "title": "[Model for the study of influences on fracture healing. Animal experiments].", "content": "Primary and secondary bone healing were studied for 30 and 60 days, respectively, by means of X rays, scintigraphy, determination of callus thickness, scintillation counter, and determination of bone mineral content. Primary bone healing was terminated after 30 days, secondary healing after 60 days. Scintillation counting proved to be a quantitative method, the other methods serving as controls. The different influences on bone healing can be quantitatively studied by means of this model.", "contents": "[Model for the study of influences on fracture healing. Animal experiments]. Primary and secondary bone healing were studied for 30 and 60 days, respectively, by means of X rays, scintigraphy, determination of callus thickness, scintillation counter, and determination of bone mineral content. Primary bone healing was terminated after 30 days, secondary healing after 60 days. Scintillation counting proved to be a quantitative method, the other methods serving as controls. The different influences on bone healing can be quantitatively studied by means of this model.", "PMID": 456128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12040", "title": "[Intramedullary pressure development and its sequelae in intramedullary nailing].", "content": "High pressure exceeding 1000 mm Hg are measured during reaming of the narrow cavity with ASIF instruments after osteotomy of the sheep's tibia. Histologic evaluation 8 weeks after intramedullary nailing shows obliteration of the canalis a. nutritiae and smaller cortical vessels with fat and bone particles. The internal circumference of the cortex remains nonvital. Revascularization and bone remodeling is proceeding in a mainly centripetal direction.", "contents": "[Intramedullary pressure development and its sequelae in intramedullary nailing]. High pressure exceeding 1000 mm Hg are measured during reaming of the narrow cavity with ASIF instruments after osteotomy of the sheep's tibia. Histologic evaluation 8 weeks after intramedullary nailing shows obliteration of the canalis a. nutritiae and smaller cortical vessels with fat and bone particles. The internal circumference of the cortex remains nonvital. Revascularization and bone remodeling is proceeding in a mainly centripetal direction.", "PMID": 456129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12041", "title": "[Femoral head blood flow in dogs subjected to intra-articular pressure increase and to pressure release].", "content": "In six beagles femoral head blood flow is measured with radioactive microspheres. When intra-articular pressure of the hip joint is increased by 50 mm Hg, blood flow is diminished to 48%. Reducing intra-articular pressure to the initial level increases femoral head blood flow to 78%. The results support the demand for immediate pressure relief of hemarthrosis.", "contents": "[Femoral head blood flow in dogs subjected to intra-articular pressure increase and to pressure release]. In six beagles femoral head blood flow is measured with radioactive microspheres. When intra-articular pressure of the hip joint is increased by 50 mm Hg, blood flow is diminished to 48%. Reducing intra-articular pressure to the initial level increases femoral head blood flow to 78%. The results support the demand for immediate pressure relief of hemarthrosis.", "PMID": 456130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12042", "title": "[Experimental studies on the biomechanics of the lateral ligaments of the knee joint].", "content": "Measurements of absolute strain and stress on collateral ligaments of human knees were made with two new measuring cells. The medial collateral ligament was found to have three functional different parts, the most important of which was the ventral. During motion of the knee, tensile forces amounted to about 20 N when the lateral ligament was in extension and the medial ligament in full flexion. Moments of abduction and adduction increased strain and stress manyfold.", "contents": "[Experimental studies on the biomechanics of the lateral ligaments of the knee joint]. Measurements of absolute strain and stress on collateral ligaments of human knees were made with two new measuring cells. The medial collateral ligament was found to have three functional different parts, the most important of which was the ventral. During motion of the knee, tensile forces amounted to about 20 N when the lateral ligament was in extension and the medial ligament in full flexion. Moments of abduction and adduction increased strain and stress manyfold.", "PMID": 456131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12043", "title": "[Studies on the intra-osseous fastening of alloplastic ligament substitutes in sheep using carbon fibers].", "content": "The alloplastic replacement of the medial collateral ligament of the knee of sheep by carbon fibers gave a strength comparable with the natural ligament. Coating of the fibers, e.g., with epoxy resin, leads to a reduced integration of the implant into the tissues. Physical and histologic results together with the intraosseus anchorage show that pure carbon fibers are a suitable material for alloplastic ligament replacement.", "contents": "[Studies on the intra-osseous fastening of alloplastic ligament substitutes in sheep using carbon fibers]. The alloplastic replacement of the medial collateral ligament of the knee of sheep by carbon fibers gave a strength comparable with the natural ligament. Coating of the fibers, e.g., with epoxy resin, leads to a reduced integration of the implant into the tissues. Physical and histologic results together with the intraosseus anchorage show that pure carbon fibers are a suitable material for alloplastic ligament replacement.", "PMID": 456132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12044", "title": "[A new treatment method of hydrofluoric acid burns of the extremities].", "content": "A new method to arrest the unremitting progression of hydrofluoric acid burns, which occurs in the absence of appropriate therapy, is described. The treatment consists of repeated perfusions of calcium gluconate into one of the arteries supplying the affected areas. To date 11 patients have been treated in the described manner, and the therapy brought about recovery in all cases, with little loss of tissue or function.", "contents": "[A new treatment method of hydrofluoric acid burns of the extremities]. A new method to arrest the unremitting progression of hydrofluoric acid burns, which occurs in the absence of appropriate therapy, is described. The treatment consists of repeated perfusions of calcium gluconate into one of the arteries supplying the affected areas. To date 11 patients have been treated in the described manner, and the therapy brought about recovery in all cases, with little loss of tissue or function.", "PMID": 456133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12045", "title": "[Postoperative disturbance in insulin secretion: studies on the altered secretion mode].", "content": "1. Depending on the operative trauma, insulin secretion is decreased until the 10th day after abdominal surgery. 2. The decreased insulin release is caused by a diminished discharge from the pancreatic beta cell during the second phase of insulin secretion (partially newly synthesized insulin). Insulin release during the early phase of insulin secretion (prestored insulin) is unchanged or even accelerated. 3. The glucose tolerance level is pathologically diminished until the 10th postoperative day.", "contents": "[Postoperative disturbance in insulin secretion: studies on the altered secretion mode]. 1. Depending on the operative trauma, insulin secretion is decreased until the 10th day after abdominal surgery. 2. The decreased insulin release is caused by a diminished discharge from the pancreatic beta cell during the second phase of insulin secretion (partially newly synthesized insulin). Insulin release during the early phase of insulin secretion (prestored insulin) is unchanged or even accelerated. 3. The glucose tolerance level is pathologically diminished until the 10th postoperative day.", "PMID": 456134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12046", "title": "[Mode of action and tolerance of a single weekly dose of 1 mg of L-thyroxine for the prevention of recurrence of goiter].", "content": "After resection of euthyroid goiter, different doses of thyroxine administration for prophylaxis against recurrence were tested and compared. Group 1 (n = 30) received 1 mg L-thyroxine weekly; group 2 (n = 31), 0.1 mg L-thyroxine daily. The intermittent, high-dose thyroxine turned out to be equally effective as the conventional daily intake and showed no negative side effects.", "contents": "[Mode of action and tolerance of a single weekly dose of 1 mg of L-thyroxine for the prevention of recurrence of goiter]. After resection of euthyroid goiter, different doses of thyroxine administration for prophylaxis against recurrence were tested and compared. Group 1 (n = 30) received 1 mg L-thyroxine weekly; group 2 (n = 31), 0.1 mg L-thyroxine daily. The intermittent, high-dose thyroxine turned out to be equally effective as the conventional daily intake and showed no negative side effects.", "PMID": 456135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12047", "title": "[Changes in ionized calcium and citrate levels in dogs during mechanical autotransfusion with heparin, ACD and CPD].", "content": "The control of ionized calcium (Ca++), total calcium, and citrate levels in serum were determined in dogs during autotransfusion (AT) of blood stabilized with heparin, ACD (formula B) and CPD. Blood samples were taken according to the changes of aortic pressure (AOP), which was continuously monitored. Taking the values during the stable phase of AOP preceding the AT as baseline, Ca++ dropped by 27% with ACD and by 34% with CPD at the maximum decrease of AOP immediately after the AT. The corresponding increase of citrate was 174% with ACD and 521% with CPD, while total calcium remained stable. Thus cardiac depression after AT of citrated blood seems to be mainly caused by the drop of Ca++, which is significantly more pronounced with CPD, corresponding to the higher content of citrate.", "contents": "[Changes in ionized calcium and citrate levels in dogs during mechanical autotransfusion with heparin, ACD and CPD]. The control of ionized calcium (Ca++), total calcium, and citrate levels in serum were determined in dogs during autotransfusion (AT) of blood stabilized with heparin, ACD (formula B) and CPD. Blood samples were taken according to the changes of aortic pressure (AOP), which was continuously monitored. Taking the values during the stable phase of AOP preceding the AT as baseline, Ca++ dropped by 27% with ACD and by 34% with CPD at the maximum decrease of AOP immediately after the AT. The corresponding increase of citrate was 174% with ACD and 521% with CPD, while total calcium remained stable. Thus cardiac depression after AT of citrated blood seems to be mainly caused by the drop of Ca++, which is significantly more pronounced with CPD, corresponding to the higher content of citrate.", "PMID": 456136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12048", "title": "[Viscosimetric studies on the effectiveness of a postoperative bronchial secretolytic agent].", "content": "During postoperative care we examined the effect of bromhexine HCl and prostaglandin E1 on the viscosity of bronchial secretion. Both drugs reduced the viscosity and produced a liquefaction of the secretion. In the control group, which was treated with 0.9% NaCl solution, no significant effect was seen.", "contents": "[Viscosimetric studies on the effectiveness of a postoperative bronchial secretolytic agent]. During postoperative care we examined the effect of bromhexine HCl and prostaglandin E1 on the viscosity of bronchial secretion. Both drugs reduced the viscosity and produced a liquefaction of the secretion. In the control group, which was treated with 0.9% NaCl solution, no significant effect was seen.", "PMID": 456137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12049", "title": "[Role of histamine in acute pancreatitis].", "content": "Elevated histamine concentrations of pathophysiological significance could be determined in plasma of dogs suffering from acute pancreatitis according to Pfeffer. This result was also obtained in dogs treated with aminoguanidine, a very effective diamine oxidase blocker, in addition to the duodenal blind loop preparation. Elevated histamine concentrations were found in nine out of ten dogs.", "contents": "[Role of histamine in acute pancreatitis]. Elevated histamine concentrations of pathophysiological significance could be determined in plasma of dogs suffering from acute pancreatitis according to Pfeffer. This result was also obtained in dogs treated with aminoguanidine, a very effective diamine oxidase blocker, in addition to the duodenal blind loop preparation. Elevated histamine concentrations were found in nine out of ten dogs.", "PMID": 456138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12050", "title": "[Histamine level and histamine metabolism of the human liver in biliary tract diseases].", "content": "In a control group (n = 12) the histamine content of the liver was 1.42 microgram/g tissue and the activity of the histamine-degradating enzyme, HMT, 421.5 pmol/(min . mg protein). In patients with affections of the biliary tract (n = 12) the histamine content was significantly raised to 3.09 microgram/g tissue and the HMT activity slightly diminished [349 pmol/(min . mg protein)]. The lowest values of HMT activity were found in the livers of those patients with histologically proven damage of liver cells.", "contents": "[Histamine level and histamine metabolism of the human liver in biliary tract diseases]. In a control group (n = 12) the histamine content of the liver was 1.42 microgram/g tissue and the activity of the histamine-degradating enzyme, HMT, 421.5 pmol/(min . mg protein). In patients with affections of the biliary tract (n = 12) the histamine content was significantly raised to 3.09 microgram/g tissue and the HMT activity slightly diminished [349 pmol/(min . mg protein)]. The lowest values of HMT activity were found in the livers of those patients with histologically proven damage of liver cells.", "PMID": 456139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12051", "title": "[Reaction of the liver cells to surgical intervention in obstructive jaundice. Electron microscopic-morphometric studies of the rat liver].", "content": "In Wistar rats, bile was drained by biliocutaneous fistulas 7 days after ligation of the common bile duct. Morphometric analysis using a computer program registered about 60 parameters of a hepatocyte. Most cell organelles are again normal 7 days after intervention. The ultrastructural changes are not fully compatible with histologic and biochemical findings.", "contents": "[Reaction of the liver cells to surgical intervention in obstructive jaundice. Electron microscopic-morphometric studies of the rat liver]. In Wistar rats, bile was drained by biliocutaneous fistulas 7 days after ligation of the common bile duct. Morphometric analysis using a computer program registered about 60 parameters of a hepatocyte. Most cell organelles are again normal 7 days after intervention. The ultrastructural changes are not fully compatible with histologic and biochemical findings.", "PMID": 456140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12052", "title": "[Of what kind of material should bile duct T-tubing be made?].", "content": "T-drainage tubings consisting of siliconized latex, silicone rubber, siliconized latex with additional silicone treatment of the surface of the short legs, or silicone rubber with PVC covering of the long branch were tested in experiments with dogs. Fibrous encapsulation, incrustation, and behaviour of the material were checked after 1, 2, 4, and 12 weeks. Siliconized latex proved to be the most suitable material.", "contents": "[Of what kind of material should bile duct T-tubing be made?]. T-drainage tubings consisting of siliconized latex, silicone rubber, siliconized latex with additional silicone treatment of the surface of the short legs, or silicone rubber with PVC covering of the long branch were tested in experiments with dogs. Fibrous encapsulation, incrustation, and behaviour of the material were checked after 1, 2, 4, and 12 weeks. Siliconized latex proved to be the most suitable material.", "PMID": 456141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12053", "title": "[Animal experiments on the hemodynamics of prehepatic portal hypertension before and following various methods of portacaval anastomosis].", "content": "In 24 dogs (29 +/- 5,7 kg) general and intestinal hemodynamics were measured during acute prehepatic portal hypertension before and after mesentericocaval, splenorenal, and splenocaval (SCA) shunt. From the hemodynamic point of view the SCA is superior because of its complete venous decompression of the region of the spleen and cardia and a greater blood flow to the liver. Furthermore shunt flow, and consequently volume load imposed on the general circulation, is significantly smaller in SCA.", "contents": "[Animal experiments on the hemodynamics of prehepatic portal hypertension before and following various methods of portacaval anastomosis]. In 24 dogs (29 +/- 5,7 kg) general and intestinal hemodynamics were measured during acute prehepatic portal hypertension before and after mesentericocaval, splenorenal, and splenocaval (SCA) shunt. From the hemodynamic point of view the SCA is superior because of its complete venous decompression of the region of the spleen and cardia and a greater blood flow to the liver. Furthermore shunt flow, and consequently volume load imposed on the general circulation, is significantly smaller in SCA.", "PMID": 456142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12054", "title": "[Myocardial metabolic status in various methods of inducing a reversible heart arrest].", "content": "In experiments with dogs, three different methods of inducing a reversible cardiac arrest were compared: (A) the ischemic arrest for 45 min, (B) the cardiac arrest for 90 min due to injection of Cardioplegin according to KIRSCH, and (C) the cardiac arrest for 90 min due to infusion of solution LK 352 according to BRETSCHNEIDER. The body temperature was reduced to 30 degrees C during the period of cardiac arrest. From the alterations in the adenylic acid system of the left ventricular myocardium at the end of the period of myocardial standstill and after 60 min of recovery, it can be deduced that the best myocardial protection is given by method C. Method A has the least effect.", "contents": "[Myocardial metabolic status in various methods of inducing a reversible heart arrest]. In experiments with dogs, three different methods of inducing a reversible cardiac arrest were compared: (A) the ischemic arrest for 45 min, (B) the cardiac arrest for 90 min due to injection of Cardioplegin according to KIRSCH, and (C) the cardiac arrest for 90 min due to infusion of solution LK 352 according to BRETSCHNEIDER. The body temperature was reduced to 30 degrees C during the period of cardiac arrest. From the alterations in the adenylic acid system of the left ventricular myocardium at the end of the period of myocardial standstill and after 60 min of recovery, it can be deduced that the best myocardial protection is given by method C. Method A has the least effect.", "PMID": 456143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12055", "title": "[Function of the residual pancreas following partial duodeno-pancreatectomy].", "content": "After Whipple operations, follow-up examinations were conducted under hospital conditions in order to investigate the function of the remainder of the pancreas and the extent to which general health was adversely affected. General parameters such as vocational rehabilitation, history of pain, and weight were analyzed, as well as chemistry related to the severity of pancreatic malassimilation, e.g., stool weight, stool fat contents, fat utilization, chymotrypsin in stool, and PABA test. An exocrine pancreatic insufficiency was found in 80% of patients, but this was easily manageable using medications, sometimes in combination with a MCT fat diet. Subclinical diabetes mellitus was shown in 80% of patients using glucose tolerance tests. However, clinical manifestations of diabetes did not occur.", "contents": "[Function of the residual pancreas following partial duodeno-pancreatectomy]. After Whipple operations, follow-up examinations were conducted under hospital conditions in order to investigate the function of the remainder of the pancreas and the extent to which general health was adversely affected. General parameters such as vocational rehabilitation, history of pain, and weight were analyzed, as well as chemistry related to the severity of pancreatic malassimilation, e.g., stool weight, stool fat contents, fat utilization, chymotrypsin in stool, and PABA test. An exocrine pancreatic insufficiency was found in 80% of patients, but this was easily manageable using medications, sometimes in combination with a MCT fat diet. Subclinical diabetes mellitus was shown in 80% of patients using glucose tolerance tests. However, clinical manifestations of diabetes did not occur.", "PMID": 456144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12056", "title": "[Significance of the complement system in acute pancreatitis in rats].", "content": "The influence of complement system in acute pancreatitis in the rat was examined. Two different experimental procedures were used to induce pancreatitis: distal choledochal ligature and the Pfeffer model as modified by NEVALAINEN. In both procedures an acute pancreatitis developed and complement depression was noted. These results showed that consumption of complement will occur even in pancreatitis induced by other than immunologic models. In a second series the same experimental procedures were used in rats that had been decomplemented by application of cobra venom factor. It was possible to produce an acute pancreatitis of moderate severity.", "contents": "[Significance of the complement system in acute pancreatitis in rats]. The influence of complement system in acute pancreatitis in the rat was examined. Two different experimental procedures were used to induce pancreatitis: distal choledochal ligature and the Pfeffer model as modified by NEVALAINEN. In both procedures an acute pancreatitis developed and complement depression was noted. These results showed that consumption of complement will occur even in pancreatitis induced by other than immunologic models. In a second series the same experimental procedures were used in rats that had been decomplemented by application of cobra venom factor. It was possible to produce an acute pancreatitis of moderate severity.", "PMID": 456145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12057", "title": "[Cryosurgery in the treatment of Echinococcus alveolaris. Animal experiments].", "content": "The influence of cryosurgery on echinococcus alveolaris is studied in 100 mice. In a second series cryosurgical effects on structures of the hepatic portal (hepatic artery, portal vein, hepatic duct) were examined. The experiments showed that echinococcus alveolaris can be devitalized by cryosurgical measures at temperatures between -100 degrees C and -190 degrees C. No damage of the hepatic artery, portal vein, and hepatic duct occurred. Clinical application of cryosurgery for the treatment of inoperable echinococcus alveolaris of the hepatic portal appears to be justified.", "contents": "[Cryosurgery in the treatment of Echinococcus alveolaris. Animal experiments]. The influence of cryosurgery on echinococcus alveolaris is studied in 100 mice. In a second series cryosurgical effects on structures of the hepatic portal (hepatic artery, portal vein, hepatic duct) were examined. The experiments showed that echinococcus alveolaris can be devitalized by cryosurgical measures at temperatures between -100 degrees C and -190 degrees C. No damage of the hepatic artery, portal vein, and hepatic duct occurred. Clinical application of cryosurgery for the treatment of inoperable echinococcus alveolaris of the hepatic portal appears to be justified.", "PMID": 456146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12058", "title": "[Regional myocardial blood flow and ventricle function following hypothermic ischemia and cardioplegia].", "content": "Regional myocardial blood flow (MBF) and left ventricular (LV) function were measured in 18 dogs after 60 min hypothermic (14-16 degrees C) arrest with (group I) and without cardioplegia (group II). Regardless whether postischemic LV function was severely (group II) or only moderately (group I) impaired, the amount of MBF and its transmural distribution was not significantly altered after 30 min reperfusion. In contrast to topical hypothermia, additional cardioplegia maintained metabolic regulation of coronary flow.", "contents": "[Regional myocardial blood flow and ventricle function following hypothermic ischemia and cardioplegia]. Regional myocardial blood flow (MBF) and left ventricular (LV) function were measured in 18 dogs after 60 min hypothermic (14-16 degrees C) arrest with (group I) and without cardioplegia (group II). Regardless whether postischemic LV function was severely (group II) or only moderately (group I) impaired, the amount of MBF and its transmural distribution was not significantly altered after 30 min reperfusion. In contrast to topical hypothermia, additional cardioplegia maintained metabolic regulation of coronary flow.", "PMID": 456147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12059", "title": "[Immunosuppressive properties of Anturan].", "content": "The influence of Anturan on rosette-forming cells and hemolytic antibodies in male Wistar rats immunized with 5 . 10(8) sheep red blood cells was investigated. An unknown influence of Anturan on the cellular and humoral immune response was detected. Anturan was most effective when given 2 days after immunization.", "contents": "[Immunosuppressive properties of Anturan]. The influence of Anturan on rosette-forming cells and hemolytic antibodies in male Wistar rats immunized with 5 . 10(8) sheep red blood cells was investigated. An unknown influence of Anturan on the cellular and humoral immune response was detected. Anturan was most effective when given 2 days after immunization.", "PMID": 456148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12060", "title": "[Comparative studies on pulsatile and continuous flow during extracorporeal circulation. Effects on liver function and endocrine pancreas secretion].", "content": "The effects of pulsatile and nonpulsatile flow pattern on pancreas and liver blood flow were studied in nine dogs on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Furthermore, plasma levels of glucose, insulin, glucagon, growth hormone, and cholinesterase were compared in 20 patients subjected to open heart surgery with either pulsatile or nonpulsatile perfusion. Impairment of liver and pancreas function was significantly greater at the end of CPB and 48 h afterwards with nonpulsatile flow as compared with the pulsatile flow pattern. A decrease of intestinal blood flow that was demonstrated in dogs subjected to nonpulsatile perfusion could at least in part be responsible for the difference in postoperative organ function observed in patients after CPB.", "contents": "[Comparative studies on pulsatile and continuous flow during extracorporeal circulation. Effects on liver function and endocrine pancreas secretion]. The effects of pulsatile and nonpulsatile flow pattern on pancreas and liver blood flow were studied in nine dogs on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Furthermore, plasma levels of glucose, insulin, glucagon, growth hormone, and cholinesterase were compared in 20 patients subjected to open heart surgery with either pulsatile or nonpulsatile perfusion. Impairment of liver and pancreas function was significantly greater at the end of CPB and 48 h afterwards with nonpulsatile flow as compared with the pulsatile flow pattern. A decrease of intestinal blood flow that was demonstrated in dogs subjected to nonpulsatile perfusion could at least in part be responsible for the difference in postoperative organ function observed in patients after CPB.", "PMID": 456149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12061", "title": "[Hyperdynamic septic shock in man: concentration course of selected coagulation factors and plasma proteins].", "content": "Coagulation factors and plasma proteins are significantly decreased in patients with hyperdynamic septic shock. Besides the activation of the coagulation system, the endotoxin-induced release of granulocyte proteases is responsible for a septic disseminated intravascular coagulation. In this situation special emphasis should be placed on the levels of antithrombin III regarding application of heparin.", "contents": "[Hyperdynamic septic shock in man: concentration course of selected coagulation factors and plasma proteins]. Coagulation factors and plasma proteins are significantly decreased in patients with hyperdynamic septic shock. Besides the activation of the coagulation system, the endotoxin-induced release of granulocyte proteases is responsible for a septic disseminated intravascular coagulation. In this situation special emphasis should be placed on the levels of antithrombin III regarding application of heparin.", "PMID": 456150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12062", "title": "[Effects of bacterial peritonitis on the low-pressure system in man].", "content": "The effective compliance (C) of the \"low-pressure system\" has been measured in ten patients with bacterial peritonitis by means of plotting pressure and volume on the first postoperative day (deltaV = 500 ml/10 min). The value of C is decreased in one group of patients, while it increases to as much as five times that of \"normal patients\" in the other. The cause might be a summation effect of hypovolemia, blood volume shift from intra- to extrathoracic space, and endotoxin reaction on the tone of vascular smooth muscle. The augmentation of the intravascular volume results in an increase of portal venous pressure, which is less than central venous pressure. Splanchnic pooling through increased vascular resistance does not appear.", "contents": "[Effects of bacterial peritonitis on the low-pressure system in man]. The effective compliance (C) of the \"low-pressure system\" has been measured in ten patients with bacterial peritonitis by means of plotting pressure and volume on the first postoperative day (deltaV = 500 ml/10 min). The value of C is decreased in one group of patients, while it increases to as much as five times that of \"normal patients\" in the other. The cause might be a summation effect of hypovolemia, blood volume shift from intra- to extrathoracic space, and endotoxin reaction on the tone of vascular smooth muscle. The augmentation of the intravascular volume results in an increase of portal venous pressure, which is less than central venous pressure. Splanchnic pooling through increased vascular resistance does not appear.", "PMID": 456151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12063", "title": "[Extravascular albumin and water content of the lungs in traumatic-hemorrhagic shock].", "content": "Fifteen mongrel dogs are subjected to a standardized traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Plasma albumin, measured by J-125-albumin distribution, decreases to 58% of its original level after trauma and hemorrhage. Lung albumin content increases to 53% of the blood level. Lung water content is studied in vivo using the double indicator technique, post mortem by gravimetric methods. None of these methods shows an augmentation of lung water. The massive albumin loss occurs, particularly in the lungs, due to capillary leakage. The constant pulmonary water content can possibly be explained by early artificial respiration and by the fact that in contrast to clinical situations no infusion therapy was performed.", "contents": "[Extravascular albumin and water content of the lungs in traumatic-hemorrhagic shock]. Fifteen mongrel dogs are subjected to a standardized traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Plasma albumin, measured by J-125-albumin distribution, decreases to 58% of its original level after trauma and hemorrhage. Lung albumin content increases to 53% of the blood level. Lung water content is studied in vivo using the double indicator technique, post mortem by gravimetric methods. None of these methods shows an augmentation of lung water. The massive albumin loss occurs, particularly in the lungs, due to capillary leakage. The constant pulmonary water content can possibly be explained by early artificial respiration and by the fact that in contrast to clinical situations no infusion therapy was performed.", "PMID": 456152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12064", "title": "[Pharmacological modification of regional blood flow in rat stomach mucosa].", "content": "The effect of three agents with antisecretory function on regional gastric mucosal blood flow was measured using the microspheres technique. Salbutamol caused a significant decrease in blood flow, while DMPGE2 caused a significant increase. After calcitonin no change was observed. This is contrary to the belief that inhibition of acid secretion is always associated with a decrease in gastric mucosal blood flow.", "contents": "[Pharmacological modification of regional blood flow in rat stomach mucosa]. The effect of three agents with antisecretory function on regional gastric mucosal blood flow was measured using the microspheres technique. Salbutamol caused a significant decrease in blood flow, while DMPGE2 caused a significant increase. After calcitonin no change was observed. This is contrary to the belief that inhibition of acid secretion is always associated with a decrease in gastric mucosal blood flow.", "PMID": 456153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12065", "title": "[Superselective vagotomy in rats. Functional criteria in rest and during stress].", "content": "A microsurgical technique allows the isolated severence of proximal vagal fibers at the minor curvature of the rat stomach (superselective vagotomy). In contrast to the conventional highly selective vagotomy, which favors formation of stress ulcers, this new procedure appears able to prevent gastric mucosa from developing stress ulcers.", "contents": "[Superselective vagotomy in rats. Functional criteria in rest and during stress]. A microsurgical technique allows the isolated severence of proximal vagal fibers at the minor curvature of the rat stomach (superselective vagotomy). In contrast to the conventional highly selective vagotomy, which favors formation of stress ulcers, this new procedure appears able to prevent gastric mucosa from developing stress ulcers.", "PMID": 456154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12066", "title": "[Effect of hypophysectomy on gastrin release and antral gastrin concentration].", "content": "Hypophysectomy resulted in a lower amount of basal serum gastrin. In hypophysectomized rats, there was a release of serum gastrin after food intake; however, the serum gastrin level was lower 30 min postprandially. The most important effect of hypophysectomy is absence of repletion of antral gastrin after an initial postcibarial depletion. We conclude that the immediate synthesis of antral gastrin after food intake is inhibited by hypophysectomy.", "contents": "[Effect of hypophysectomy on gastrin release and antral gastrin concentration]. Hypophysectomy resulted in a lower amount of basal serum gastrin. In hypophysectomized rats, there was a release of serum gastrin after food intake; however, the serum gastrin level was lower 30 min postprandially. The most important effect of hypophysectomy is absence of repletion of antral gastrin after an initial postcibarial depletion. We conclude that the immediate synthesis of antral gastrin after food intake is inhibited by hypophysectomy.", "PMID": 456155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12067", "title": "Effects of celiacectomy and stellatectomy on gastric mucosal innervation and acid secretion in the dog.", "content": "The effect of surgical excision of the celiac and superior mesenteric ganglia and the stellate ganglia, respectively, on gastric acid secretion and adrenergic innervation of gastric mucosa was studied in five dogs. After removal of the abdominal ganglia, there was a significant increase in acid secretion while there was a marked decrease in the number of adrenergic nerve terminals in the mucosa. When, addition, the stellate ganglia were excised, acid secretion increased slightly in two dogs, while little change in mucosal innervation was noted. These data suggest that the adrenergic innervation of the stomach has an inhibitory role in the control of acid secretion in the dog. Vagal adrenergic nerve fibers seem to be of limited importance in gastric acid production.", "contents": "Effects of celiacectomy and stellatectomy on gastric mucosal innervation and acid secretion in the dog. The effect of surgical excision of the celiac and superior mesenteric ganglia and the stellate ganglia, respectively, on gastric acid secretion and adrenergic innervation of gastric mucosa was studied in five dogs. After removal of the abdominal ganglia, there was a significant increase in acid secretion while there was a marked decrease in the number of adrenergic nerve terminals in the mucosa. When, addition, the stellate ganglia were excised, acid secretion increased slightly in two dogs, while little change in mucosal innervation was noted. These data suggest that the adrenergic innervation of the stomach has an inhibitory role in the control of acid secretion in the dog. Vagal adrenergic nerve fibers seem to be of limited importance in gastric acid production.", "PMID": 456156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12068", "title": "[Cancer of Vater's ampulla].", "content": "From 1964 to 1977 a total of 50 patients were operated on for carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater, the second most frequent tumor of the periampullar region. The cardinal symptom was jaundice. The diagnostic procedures of high value were roentgenographic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract with the use of barium, also hypotonic duodenography, sonography, and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (ERCP, angiography). Curative treatment was possible by duodenopancreatectomy, with a resection rate of 74%. The 5-year survival rate was 27% with a postoperative death rate of 13.5%.", "contents": "[Cancer of Vater's ampulla]. From 1964 to 1977 a total of 50 patients were operated on for carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater, the second most frequent tumor of the periampullar region. The cardinal symptom was jaundice. The diagnostic procedures of high value were roentgenographic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract with the use of barium, also hypotonic duodenography, sonography, and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (ERCP, angiography). Curative treatment was possible by duodenopancreatectomy, with a resection rate of 74%. The 5-year survival rate was 27% with a postoperative death rate of 13.5%.", "PMID": 456176} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12069", "title": "[Surgical correction of venous insufficiency following arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis].", "content": "The percentage of venous insufficiency in the original Cimino-Brescia shunt is very low. In cases of venous insufficiency, early diagnosis is important; operative correction is then easily performed. Ligature of the distal venous limb next to the anastomosis is the treatment of choice, providing the proximal limb is still open. If the proximal limb is obstructed, the distal venous part is dissected and anastomosed to a more proximal vein. The result is an immediately functioning shunt for dialysis.", "contents": "[Surgical correction of venous insufficiency following arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis]. The percentage of venous insufficiency in the original Cimino-Brescia shunt is very low. In cases of venous insufficiency, early diagnosis is important; operative correction is then easily performed. Ligature of the distal venous limb next to the anastomosis is the treatment of choice, providing the proximal limb is still open. If the proximal limb is obstructed, the distal venous part is dissected and anastomosed to a more proximal vein. The result is an immediately functioning shunt for dialysis.", "PMID": 456183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12070", "title": "[Surgical management of traumatic thoracic aortic aneurysms using the TDMAC-heparin shunt].", "content": "Rupture of the aorta frequently occurs in major blunt trauma to the thorax, but few patients survive long enough to develop a chronic aneurysm. A TDMAC-heparin-coated shunt was used for operative procedures on the thoracic descending aorta in 5 patients aged 18--40 years. The lesions constituted in 4 recent ruptures and 1 chronic aneurysm. In 3 cases the aneurysm was resected and replaced with a prosthetic graft. End-to-end aorta sutures were performed in the other two cases. One patient died of renal and pulmonary insufficiency. There have been no complications attributable the shunt. The advantage of this shunt include elimination of the need for systemic heparin, avoidance of hypertension during crosslamping, and adequate perfusion of the distal circulation without an interposed pump. Because of the ease of handling and low risk we consider the use of this shunt the preferred method for operative procedures on the thoracic descending aorta.", "contents": "[Surgical management of traumatic thoracic aortic aneurysms using the TDMAC-heparin shunt]. Rupture of the aorta frequently occurs in major blunt trauma to the thorax, but few patients survive long enough to develop a chronic aneurysm. A TDMAC-heparin-coated shunt was used for operative procedures on the thoracic descending aorta in 5 patients aged 18--40 years. The lesions constituted in 4 recent ruptures and 1 chronic aneurysm. In 3 cases the aneurysm was resected and replaced with a prosthetic graft. End-to-end aorta sutures were performed in the other two cases. One patient died of renal and pulmonary insufficiency. There have been no complications attributable the shunt. The advantage of this shunt include elimination of the need for systemic heparin, avoidance of hypertension during crosslamping, and adequate perfusion of the distal circulation without an interposed pump. Because of the ease of handling and low risk we consider the use of this shunt the preferred method for operative procedures on the thoracic descending aorta.", "PMID": 456184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12071", "title": "[Spontaneous erosion hemorrhage in pancreatic cysts].", "content": "Spontaneous hemorrhage without earlier exploration in pseudocysts is a serious complication of chronic relapsing pancreatitis. In the past six years we have seen 6 patients with that disease in 91 cases of pancreatic cyst; 4 patients had distal pancreatectomy and partial excision of the cyst without postoperative complication; 2 patients died without having operative intervention.", "contents": "[Spontaneous erosion hemorrhage in pancreatic cysts]. Spontaneous hemorrhage without earlier exploration in pseudocysts is a serious complication of chronic relapsing pancreatitis. In the past six years we have seen 6 patients with that disease in 91 cases of pancreatic cyst; 4 patients had distal pancreatectomy and partial excision of the cyst without postoperative complication; 2 patients died without having operative intervention.", "PMID": 456185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12072", "title": "[Morphological findings on free intestinal muscle transplants as sphincter replacement].", "content": "Using autotransplants of an autonomous intestinal muscle segment a sphincter substitute and consequently a continent colostomy can be produced in humans and dogs. The histological study of the intestinal muscle section resected 1--28 weeks after implantation shows, in dogs, a good healing process and vascularization of the transplant muscle, which explains the clinical success. Even after many weeks only slight atrophy and fibrosis can be observed. Only a few of the intramural nerve plexuses perish. Some of the small intestine sphincters remain incontinent. The specimens show a more or less extensive hemorrhagic necrosis of the transplant with high inflammation. The reason for these complications is thought to be the mucosa glands, which were not completely removed from the vulnerable small intestine of the dog before the transplantation.", "contents": "[Morphological findings on free intestinal muscle transplants as sphincter replacement]. Using autotransplants of an autonomous intestinal muscle segment a sphincter substitute and consequently a continent colostomy can be produced in humans and dogs. The histological study of the intestinal muscle section resected 1--28 weeks after implantation shows, in dogs, a good healing process and vascularization of the transplant muscle, which explains the clinical success. Even after many weeks only slight atrophy and fibrosis can be observed. Only a few of the intramural nerve plexuses perish. Some of the small intestine sphincters remain incontinent. The specimens show a more or less extensive hemorrhagic necrosis of the transplant with high inflammation. The reason for these complications is thought to be the mucosa glands, which were not completely removed from the vulnerable small intestine of the dog before the transplantation.", "PMID": 456186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12073", "title": "Higher order structure of chromosomes.", "content": "Isolated Chinese hamster metaphase chromosomes were resuspended in 4 M ammonium acetate and spread on a surface of distilled water or 0.15 to 0.5 M ammonium acetate. The DNA was released in the form of a regular series of rosettes connected by interrossette DNA. The mean length of the rosette DNA was 14 micron, similar to the mean length of 10 micron for chromomere DNA of Drosophila polytene chromosomes. The mean interrosette DNA was 4.2 micron. SDS gel electrophoresis of the chromosomal nonhistone proteins showed them to be very similar to nuclear nonhistone proteins except for the presence of more actin and tubulin. Nuclear matrix proteins were present in the chromosomes and may play a role in forming the rosettes. Evidence that the rosette pattern is artifactual versus the possibility that it represents a real organizational substructure of the chromosomes is reviewed.", "contents": "Higher order structure of chromosomes. Isolated Chinese hamster metaphase chromosomes were resuspended in 4 M ammonium acetate and spread on a surface of distilled water or 0.15 to 0.5 M ammonium acetate. The DNA was released in the form of a regular series of rosettes connected by interrossette DNA. The mean length of the rosette DNA was 14 micron, similar to the mean length of 10 micron for chromomere DNA of Drosophila polytene chromosomes. The mean interrosette DNA was 4.2 micron. SDS gel electrophoresis of the chromosomal nonhistone proteins showed them to be very similar to nuclear nonhistone proteins except for the presence of more actin and tubulin. Nuclear matrix proteins were present in the chromosomes and may play a role in forming the rosettes. Evidence that the rosette pattern is artifactual versus the possibility that it represents a real organizational substructure of the chromosomes is reviewed.", "PMID": 456198} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12074", "title": "Effects of griseofulvin on mitosis in PtK1 cells.", "content": "The concentration dependent effects of griseofulvin (GF) on mitosis in PtK1 cells were studied using a combination of time lapse cinematography and polarization and electron microscopy. Low concentrations of GF (4 X 10(-5) M) allowed a substantial number of cells to enter and complete an apparently normal mitosis. At higher concentrations of GF (1 X 10(-4) M and 2.5 X 10(-4) M) all cells entering mitosis were arrested. Typical c-mitotic chromosome arrays were observed at 1 X 10(-4) M GF with microtubules present but no spindle formed. At 2.5 X 10(-4) M GF chromosomes did not orient toward a common center to form a c-mitotic figure, but instead remained in a loosely clustered grouping at the center of the cell. Electron microscopy showed microtubles to be absent but revealed in irregularly shaped electron dense cloud around the centrioles. Quantitative polarization microscopy of metaphase cells perfused with GF showed rapid loss of spindle birefringence after exposure to the drug. Coinciding with loss of birefringence the spindle shrank rapidly with a pronounced shortening of pole to pole distance.", "contents": "Effects of griseofulvin on mitosis in PtK1 cells. The concentration dependent effects of griseofulvin (GF) on mitosis in PtK1 cells were studied using a combination of time lapse cinematography and polarization and electron microscopy. Low concentrations of GF (4 X 10(-5) M) allowed a substantial number of cells to enter and complete an apparently normal mitosis. At higher concentrations of GF (1 X 10(-4) M and 2.5 X 10(-4) M) all cells entering mitosis were arrested. Typical c-mitotic chromosome arrays were observed at 1 X 10(-4) M GF with microtubules present but no spindle formed. At 2.5 X 10(-4) M GF chromosomes did not orient toward a common center to form a c-mitotic figure, but instead remained in a loosely clustered grouping at the center of the cell. Electron microscopy showed microtubles to be absent but revealed in irregularly shaped electron dense cloud around the centrioles. Quantitative polarization microscopy of metaphase cells perfused with GF showed rapid loss of spindle birefringence after exposure to the drug. Coinciding with loss of birefringence the spindle shrank rapidly with a pronounced shortening of pole to pole distance.", "PMID": 456199} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12075", "title": "Underreplication of a polytene chromosome arm in the chironomid Prodiamesa olivacea.", "content": "The genome of Prodiamesa olivacea (Diptera, Chironomidae) has a 2 CDNA content of 0.25 pg. Mitotic metaphases reveal 3 pairs of chromosomes: 2 metacentric ones and one submetacentric. The latter comprises 20.8% of total Feulgen DNA. During larval polytenization the complemental portion of the 3rd falls to 6.5%. Concomitantly the polytene 3rd chromosome is much shorter than expected. It has no constriction and is shaped like a ball sector. -- Underreplication is understood as suppression of DNA syntheses mainly in the long arm of the 3rd chromosome at the first to third endoreplicative cycle. Most of the dense heterochromatin seen in the apex of the 3rd polytene element is not itself underreplicated; it conceals the underreplicated long arm of this chromosome. -- In ovarian nurse cells which are closely connected with the germ line the longer heterochromatic arm of the 3rd polyneme chromosome is fully replicated. -- Underreplication is discussed in the context of \"dna silencing\".", "contents": "Underreplication of a polytene chromosome arm in the chironomid Prodiamesa olivacea. The genome of Prodiamesa olivacea (Diptera, Chironomidae) has a 2 CDNA content of 0.25 pg. Mitotic metaphases reveal 3 pairs of chromosomes: 2 metacentric ones and one submetacentric. The latter comprises 20.8% of total Feulgen DNA. During larval polytenization the complemental portion of the 3rd falls to 6.5%. Concomitantly the polytene 3rd chromosome is much shorter than expected. It has no constriction and is shaped like a ball sector. -- Underreplication is understood as suppression of DNA syntheses mainly in the long arm of the 3rd chromosome at the first to third endoreplicative cycle. Most of the dense heterochromatin seen in the apex of the 3rd polytene element is not itself underreplicated; it conceals the underreplicated long arm of this chromosome. -- In ovarian nurse cells which are closely connected with the germ line the longer heterochromatic arm of the 3rd polyneme chromosome is fully replicated. -- Underreplication is discussed in the context of \"dna silencing\".", "PMID": 456201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12076", "title": "Ecdysone-induced changes in Glycoprotein synthesis and puff activities in Drosophila virilis salivary glands.", "content": "During five hours after the injection of alpha-ecdysone into the hemolymph of D. virilis late third instar larvae the formation of larval glycoproteins in the salivary glands is terminated and the synthesis of a different set of glycoproteins which is characteristic for the prepupal gland is initiated. The data presented suggest that products from early puffs inhibit the formation of larval glycoproteins while the induction of late puffs may be responsible for the appearance of prepupal glycoproteins.", "contents": "Ecdysone-induced changes in Glycoprotein synthesis and puff activities in Drosophila virilis salivary glands. During five hours after the injection of alpha-ecdysone into the hemolymph of D. virilis late third instar larvae the formation of larval glycoproteins in the salivary glands is terminated and the synthesis of a different set of glycoproteins which is characteristic for the prepupal gland is initiated. The data presented suggest that products from early puffs inhibit the formation of larval glycoproteins while the induction of late puffs may be responsible for the appearance of prepupal glycoproteins.", "PMID": 456202} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12077", "title": "Molecular cytogenetics of the Equidae. I. Purification and cytological localization of a (G + C)-rich satellite DNA from Equus przewalskii.", "content": "A (G + C)-rich density satellite DNA (rho = 1.713 gm/cc) has been purified from splenic DNA of Przewalski's horse, Equus przewalskii, by successive equilibrium density gradient centrifugations. The purified satellite, which may comprise as much as 29% of the total DNA, renatures rapidly; however, analyses of native, single-stranded, and reassociated molecules by analytical ultracentrifugation and melting properties suggest that some sequence heterogeniety exists in the 1.713 gm/cc satellite. Complementary RNA (cRNA) transcribed from satellite DNA has been utilized for in situ hybridization studies with E. przewalskii metaphase chromosomes previously identified by quinacrine-banding. These studies establish that sequences complementary to the 1.713 g/cc satellite are greatly enriched in the centromeres of some, but not all, chromosomes. The differential distribution of satellite DNA sequences over heterochromatic regions allows discrimination of three classes of heterochromatin and serves to define three types of pericentromeric regions in the karyotype of this endangered equine species. Additionally, apparent polymorphism in concentrations of satellite DNA sequences between homologs in the same karyotype is noted.", "contents": "Molecular cytogenetics of the Equidae. I. Purification and cytological localization of a (G + C)-rich satellite DNA from Equus przewalskii. A (G + C)-rich density satellite DNA (rho = 1.713 gm/cc) has been purified from splenic DNA of Przewalski's horse, Equus przewalskii, by successive equilibrium density gradient centrifugations. The purified satellite, which may comprise as much as 29% of the total DNA, renatures rapidly; however, analyses of native, single-stranded, and reassociated molecules by analytical ultracentrifugation and melting properties suggest that some sequence heterogeniety exists in the 1.713 gm/cc satellite. Complementary RNA (cRNA) transcribed from satellite DNA has been utilized for in situ hybridization studies with E. przewalskii metaphase chromosomes previously identified by quinacrine-banding. These studies establish that sequences complementary to the 1.713 g/cc satellite are greatly enriched in the centromeres of some, but not all, chromosomes. The differential distribution of satellite DNA sequences over heterochromatic regions allows discrimination of three classes of heterochromatin and serves to define three types of pericentromeric regions in the karyotype of this endangered equine species. Additionally, apparent polymorphism in concentrations of satellite DNA sequences between homologs in the same karyotype is noted.", "PMID": 456203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12078", "title": "Lysosomal enzymes in pure pancreatic juice from normal healthy volunteers and chronic alcoholics.", "content": "Investigation of pure human pancreatic juice obtained by direct cannulation of the main pancreatic duct of 11 healthy volunteer subjects and 10 chronic alcoholics without detectable pancreatic disease revealed the presence of numerous acid hydrolases in this secretion. The pH optimal and substrate specificities of these enzymes suggest that they are of lysosomal origin. Stimulation of the pancreas by injection of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin (CCK-PZ) (1 Ivy dog unit/kg) resulted in a striking increase in activity of some of these hydrolases (N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, arylsulfatase, etc.) similar to that observed for trypsin, amylase, and other pancreatic digestive enzymes. In a second group of hydrolases (beta-D-glucuronidase, leucine naphthylamidase, etc.) the effect of this hormone was greatly reduced or absent, particularly in normal individuals. In chronic alcoholics enzyme activity in response to CCK-PZ injection was greater than in normal subjects. Although this increase achieved statistical significance (P less than 0.05) in the case of beta-D-glucuronidase only, it was observed for all lysosomal hydrolases tested and suggests either increased synthesis or a more facile release of these enzymes from the pancreas of chronic alcoholics than of normal individuals.", "contents": "Lysosomal enzymes in pure pancreatic juice from normal healthy volunteers and chronic alcoholics. Investigation of pure human pancreatic juice obtained by direct cannulation of the main pancreatic duct of 11 healthy volunteer subjects and 10 chronic alcoholics without detectable pancreatic disease revealed the presence of numerous acid hydrolases in this secretion. The pH optimal and substrate specificities of these enzymes suggest that they are of lysosomal origin. Stimulation of the pancreas by injection of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin (CCK-PZ) (1 Ivy dog unit/kg) resulted in a striking increase in activity of some of these hydrolases (N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, arylsulfatase, etc.) similar to that observed for trypsin, amylase, and other pancreatic digestive enzymes. In a second group of hydrolases (beta-D-glucuronidase, leucine naphthylamidase, etc.) the effect of this hormone was greatly reduced or absent, particularly in normal individuals. In chronic alcoholics enzyme activity in response to CCK-PZ injection was greater than in normal subjects. Although this increase achieved statistical significance (P less than 0.05) in the case of beta-D-glucuronidase only, it was observed for all lysosomal hydrolases tested and suggests either increased synthesis or a more facile release of these enzymes from the pancreas of chronic alcoholics than of normal individuals.", "PMID": 456205} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12079", "title": "An appraisal of tests for severe atrophic gastritis in relatives of patients with pernicious anemia.", "content": "The sensitivities, specificities, and predictive values of parietal cell antibody, serum gastrin, and serum pepsinogen I (PG I) for severe atrophic gastritis of the oxyntic gland mucosa have been determined in 171 first-degree relatives of 62 patients with pernicious anemia. Parietal cell antibody had the lowest sensitivity (65%), specificity (87%), and predictive value (44%). A low serum PG I and a high serum gastrin had identical specificities (97%), and similar predictive values (84 vs 83%), but the sensitivity of a low serum PG I was greater than that of a high serum gastrin (91 vs 83%). Parietal cell antibody was found in 19 of 148 relatives without severe atrophic gastritis and occurred as an isolated finding in 17. In contrast, 14 of the 15 relatives with severe atrophic gastritis who had parietal cell antibody also had a high serum gastrin and a low serum PG I. A high serum gastrin together with a low serum PG I had a specificity of 100%. The results recommend serum PG I and serum gastrin, but not parietal cell antibody, as tests for severe atrophic gastritis in relatives of patients with pernicious anemia.", "contents": "An appraisal of tests for severe atrophic gastritis in relatives of patients with pernicious anemia. The sensitivities, specificities, and predictive values of parietal cell antibody, serum gastrin, and serum pepsinogen I (PG I) for severe atrophic gastritis of the oxyntic gland mucosa have been determined in 171 first-degree relatives of 62 patients with pernicious anemia. Parietal cell antibody had the lowest sensitivity (65%), specificity (87%), and predictive value (44%). A low serum PG I and a high serum gastrin had identical specificities (97%), and similar predictive values (84 vs 83%), but the sensitivity of a low serum PG I was greater than that of a high serum gastrin (91 vs 83%). Parietal cell antibody was found in 19 of 148 relatives without severe atrophic gastritis and occurred as an isolated finding in 17. In contrast, 14 of the 15 relatives with severe atrophic gastritis who had parietal cell antibody also had a high serum gastrin and a low serum PG I. A high serum gastrin together with a low serum PG I had a specificity of 100%. The results recommend serum PG I and serum gastrin, but not parietal cell antibody, as tests for severe atrophic gastritis in relatives of patients with pernicious anemia.", "PMID": 456206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12080", "title": "Liver function in physically trained subjects: galactose elimination capacity, plasma disappearance of indocyanine green, and aminopyrine metabolism in long-distance runners.", "content": "Physical exercise and physical training are known to affect several aspects of hepatic metabolism. To assess whether adaptation to long-lasting exercise modifies microsomal drug metabolism, 8 long-distance runners were compared with a group of medical students having significantly lower maximal rates of oxygen consumption. At rest the hepatic galactose elimination capacity and the indocyanine green plasma disappearance rate used as reference methods were the same in both groups. The plasma clearance of ([14C]dimethylamine) aminopyrine and the kinetics of 14CO2 in breath did not differ either. It is concluded that adaptation to long-lasting exercise can occur without evidence for changes in hepatic galactokinase activity, liver blood flow, or microsomal metabolism of aminopyrine.", "contents": "Liver function in physically trained subjects: galactose elimination capacity, plasma disappearance of indocyanine green, and aminopyrine metabolism in long-distance runners. Physical exercise and physical training are known to affect several aspects of hepatic metabolism. To assess whether adaptation to long-lasting exercise modifies microsomal drug metabolism, 8 long-distance runners were compared with a group of medical students having significantly lower maximal rates of oxygen consumption. At rest the hepatic galactose elimination capacity and the indocyanine green plasma disappearance rate used as reference methods were the same in both groups. The plasma clearance of ([14C]dimethylamine) aminopyrine and the kinetics of 14CO2 in breath did not differ either. It is concluded that adaptation to long-lasting exercise can occur without evidence for changes in hepatic galactokinase activity, liver blood flow, or microsomal metabolism of aminopyrine.", "PMID": 456207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12081", "title": "Platelet function in chronic liver disease: relationship to disease severity.", "content": "Abnormalities of platelet aggregation in response to adenosine diphosphate in 56 patients with chronic liver disease correlated with impairment of hepatocellular function but not with the etiology of the liver disease. Platelet-poor plasma from some patients appeared to contain an inhibitor since, in cross-over studies, it reduced the degree of aggregation of control subjects. However, platelet-poor plasma from some other patients enhanced aggregation in controls, and this was thought to be due to the presence of fibrin monomer. In the majority of patients with severe liver disease, platelet function still appeared defective, even after exclusion of the effects of plasma, and was independent of the platelet count in peripheral venous blood. Since patient platelet volumes were smaller than those of controls, these findings might be explained by deficiency of the larger hemostatically active type of platelet as a consequence of either bone marrow failure or splenic sequestration.", "contents": "Platelet function in chronic liver disease: relationship to disease severity. Abnormalities of platelet aggregation in response to adenosine diphosphate in 56 patients with chronic liver disease correlated with impairment of hepatocellular function but not with the etiology of the liver disease. Platelet-poor plasma from some patients appeared to contain an inhibitor since, in cross-over studies, it reduced the degree of aggregation of control subjects. However, platelet-poor plasma from some other patients enhanced aggregation in controls, and this was thought to be due to the presence of fibrin monomer. In the majority of patients with severe liver disease, platelet function still appeared defective, even after exclusion of the effects of plasma, and was independent of the platelet count in peripheral venous blood. Since patient platelet volumes were smaller than those of controls, these findings might be explained by deficiency of the larger hemostatically active type of platelet as a consequence of either bone marrow failure or splenic sequestration.", "PMID": 456208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12082", "title": "Colonic involvement in salmonellosis.", "content": "Two cases of Salmonella colitis are described. Clinical and radiological differentiation from ulcerative colitis is difficult and necessitates repeated stool cultures. The management of Salmonella colitis is reviewed.", "contents": "Colonic involvement in salmonellosis. Two cases of Salmonella colitis are described. Clinical and radiological differentiation from ulcerative colitis is difficult and necessitates repeated stool cultures. The management of Salmonella colitis is reviewed.", "PMID": 456209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12083", "title": "Biliary and pancreatic duct pressures measured by ERCP manometry in patients with suspected papillary stenosis.", "content": "Papillary stenosis is an imprecisely defined clinical syndrome which eludes definitive diagnosis. In this study we evaluated 26 patients with suspected papillary stenosis by manometric examination of the sphincter of Oddi done during ERCP examination. Basal pressure in the sphincter of Oddi was elevated in 14 of the patients. Of these 14 patients, 10 underwent sphincterotomy and all experienced improvement in clinical symptoms after their surgery. We suggest that ERCP manometry is a useful procedure for identifying patients with papillary stenosis who may benefit from sphincterotomy.", "contents": "Biliary and pancreatic duct pressures measured by ERCP manometry in patients with suspected papillary stenosis. Papillary stenosis is an imprecisely defined clinical syndrome which eludes definitive diagnosis. In this study we evaluated 26 patients with suspected papillary stenosis by manometric examination of the sphincter of Oddi done during ERCP examination. Basal pressure in the sphincter of Oddi was elevated in 14 of the patients. Of these 14 patients, 10 underwent sphincterotomy and all experienced improvement in clinical symptoms after their surgery. We suggest that ERCP manometry is a useful procedure for identifying patients with papillary stenosis who may benefit from sphincterotomy.", "PMID": 456210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12084", "title": "Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: effect on pyloric sphincter and duodenogastric reflux.", "content": "We have investigated the effect of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs on canine pyloric sphincter pressure, mucosal potential difference (PD), and duodenogastric reflux in 5 dogs. Only intragastric aspirin at doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg caused a significant (P less than 0.05) decrease in pyloric sphincter pressure, an increase of duodenogastric reflux, and changed the mucosal PD. Neither intravenous aspirin, intragastric phenylbutazone, or intrarectal indomethacin produced these changes. The mechanism for the aspirin effect may be mediated by local pathways related to changes in mucosal PD. We postulate that increased duodenogastric reflux may be an aggravating factor for the gastric mucosal damage caused by intragastric aspirin.", "contents": "Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: effect on pyloric sphincter and duodenogastric reflux. We have investigated the effect of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs on canine pyloric sphincter pressure, mucosal potential difference (PD), and duodenogastric reflux in 5 dogs. Only intragastric aspirin at doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg caused a significant (P less than 0.05) decrease in pyloric sphincter pressure, an increase of duodenogastric reflux, and changed the mucosal PD. Neither intravenous aspirin, intragastric phenylbutazone, or intrarectal indomethacin produced these changes. The mechanism for the aspirin effect may be mediated by local pathways related to changes in mucosal PD. We postulate that increased duodenogastric reflux may be an aggravating factor for the gastric mucosal damage caused by intragastric aspirin.", "PMID": 456211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12085", "title": "A prospective study of the course of Crohn's disease.", "content": "To better define the course of Crohn's disease, certain clinical, laboratory, and radiological features were studied prospectively in a representative group of 25 patients at intervals of up to 77 months. Eleven variables of potential use in assessing the course were analyzed for clinician preference, and the statistical relationship of one variable, the Crohn's disease activity index, to the other 10 was determined. Modest improvement was documented in three clinical variables, as well as in anemia, serum albumin, intestinal protein loss, and radiological extent of disease. Variables most frequently ranked high as reflections of the course of Crohn's disease were hematocrit and extent of disease, followed by body weight, stools per day, B12 absorption, serum albumin, and intestinal protein loss. The highest intervariable correlation was between improvement in protein loss and decrease in radiological extent (r = 0.75).", "contents": "A prospective study of the course of Crohn's disease. To better define the course of Crohn's disease, certain clinical, laboratory, and radiological features were studied prospectively in a representative group of 25 patients at intervals of up to 77 months. Eleven variables of potential use in assessing the course were analyzed for clinician preference, and the statistical relationship of one variable, the Crohn's disease activity index, to the other 10 was determined. Modest improvement was documented in three clinical variables, as well as in anemia, serum albumin, intestinal protein loss, and radiological extent of disease. Variables most frequently ranked high as reflections of the course of Crohn's disease were hematocrit and extent of disease, followed by body weight, stools per day, B12 absorption, serum albumin, and intestinal protein loss. The highest intervariable correlation was between improvement in protein loss and decrease in radiological extent (r = 0.75).", "PMID": 456213} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12086", "title": "Comparison of flexible sigmoidoscopy with other diagnostic techniques in the diagnosis of rectocolon neoplasia.", "content": "Flexible sigmoidoscopy was compared to rigid sigmoidoscopy in the detection of colorectal neoplasia in a select group of patients. A distance of 30 cm or greater was obtained by flexible sigmoidoscopy in 94% of patients and a distance of 50 cm or greater in 46% of patients. A significant number of cancers and adenomas detected by flexible sigmoidoscopy were not detected by rigid sigmoidoscopy. Flexible sigmoidoscopy was tolerated better than rigid sigmoidoscopy but required twice the time. Flexible sigmoidoscopy could be combined with air-contrast barium enema the same day with the one preparation and did not interfere with the x-ray examination. All cancers and a significant number of adenomas detected subsequently on colonoscopy were detected by the combination of flexible sigmoidoscopy and air-contrast barium enema. Although the combination of flexible sigmoidoscopy and air-contrast barium enema is not adequate for thorough diagnostic evaluation of patients with a positive screening test, it may be of value in other select clinical situations. Flexible sigmoidoscopy has the potential for higher yield and better patient tolerance as compared to rigid sigmoidoscopy. This warrants further evaluation.", "contents": "Comparison of flexible sigmoidoscopy with other diagnostic techniques in the diagnosis of rectocolon neoplasia. Flexible sigmoidoscopy was compared to rigid sigmoidoscopy in the detection of colorectal neoplasia in a select group of patients. A distance of 30 cm or greater was obtained by flexible sigmoidoscopy in 94% of patients and a distance of 50 cm or greater in 46% of patients. A significant number of cancers and adenomas detected by flexible sigmoidoscopy were not detected by rigid sigmoidoscopy. Flexible sigmoidoscopy was tolerated better than rigid sigmoidoscopy but required twice the time. Flexible sigmoidoscopy could be combined with air-contrast barium enema the same day with the one preparation and did not interfere with the x-ray examination. All cancers and a significant number of adenomas detected subsequently on colonoscopy were detected by the combination of flexible sigmoidoscopy and air-contrast barium enema. Although the combination of flexible sigmoidoscopy and air-contrast barium enema is not adequate for thorough diagnostic evaluation of patients with a positive screening test, it may be of value in other select clinical situations. Flexible sigmoidoscopy has the potential for higher yield and better patient tolerance as compared to rigid sigmoidoscopy. This warrants further evaluation.", "PMID": 456214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12087", "title": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia in ulcerative colitis: report of three cases, review of the literature, and evaluation of modes of therapy.", "content": "Three cases of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in association with idiopathic ulcerative colitis are reported; the literature is reviewed; and therapeutic modalities are considered. Successful treatment is shown to have resulted with steroids alone, steroids and immunosuppressives, splenectomy, and colectomy. It is concluded that moderate or severe hemolysis should be treated first with high-dose corticosteriods; if unsuccessful, immunosuppressive therapy may be added or a splenectomy performed. Finally, total colectomy should be reserved for fulminant colitis and its complications and is not indicated solely for hemolysis.", "contents": "Autoimmune hemolytic anemia in ulcerative colitis: report of three cases, review of the literature, and evaluation of modes of therapy. Three cases of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in association with idiopathic ulcerative colitis are reported; the literature is reviewed; and therapeutic modalities are considered. Successful treatment is shown to have resulted with steroids alone, steroids and immunosuppressives, splenectomy, and colectomy. It is concluded that moderate or severe hemolysis should be treated first with high-dose corticosteriods; if unsuccessful, immunosuppressive therapy may be added or a splenectomy performed. Finally, total colectomy should be reserved for fulminant colitis and its complications and is not indicated solely for hemolysis.", "PMID": 456215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12088", "title": "Lack of supportive evidence for an autosomal recessive inheritance in chronic hepatitis B infections.", "content": "Two families with persistent hepatitis B infections are described. The patterns of HBsAG positivity in the parents and offspring are not compatible with the theory that susceptibility to chronic hepatitis B infection is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.", "contents": "Lack of supportive evidence for an autosomal recessive inheritance in chronic hepatitis B infections. Two families with persistent hepatitis B infections are described. The patterns of HBsAG positivity in the parents and offspring are not compatible with the theory that susceptibility to chronic hepatitis B infection is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.", "PMID": 456216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12089", "title": "Relationship of hiatal hernia to endoscopically proved reflux esophagitis.", "content": "The relationship between reflux esophagitis and hiatal hernia was studied using fiberoptic endoscopy. Of 293 patients having upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy during an 18-month period, 64 (22%) had a hiatal hernia and 38 (13%) had esophagitis. Half the patients with a hiatal hernia had esophagitis, whereas the vast majority (84%) of patients with esophagitis had a concomitant hiatal hernia. The association between esophagitis and hiatal hernia was highly significant (P less than 0.0001). There was no statistically significant association between the size of the hiatal hernia and the degree of esophagitis on endoscopy. A permissive role of hiatal hernia in the genesis of reflux esophagitis is suggested.", "contents": "Relationship of hiatal hernia to endoscopically proved reflux esophagitis. The relationship between reflux esophagitis and hiatal hernia was studied using fiberoptic endoscopy. Of 293 patients having upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy during an 18-month period, 64 (22%) had a hiatal hernia and 38 (13%) had esophagitis. Half the patients with a hiatal hernia had esophagitis, whereas the vast majority (84%) of patients with esophagitis had a concomitant hiatal hernia. The association between esophagitis and hiatal hernia was highly significant (P less than 0.0001). There was no statistically significant association between the size of the hiatal hernia and the degree of esophagitis on endoscopy. A permissive role of hiatal hernia in the genesis of reflux esophagitis is suggested.", "PMID": 456217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12090", "title": "Instrumental esophageal perforation: a possible complication of bougienage following Quinton-Rubin esophageal biopsy.", "content": "A patient with a perforation following dilatation of the esophagus is presented. The temporal relationship between earlier Quinton-Rubin esophageal biopsies obtained by the use of the multi-purpose Quinton-Rubin tube and subsequent perforation is noted. The possibility of these events being causally related is discussed.", "contents": "Instrumental esophageal perforation: a possible complication of bougienage following Quinton-Rubin esophageal biopsy. A patient with a perforation following dilatation of the esophagus is presented. The temporal relationship between earlier Quinton-Rubin esophageal biopsies obtained by the use of the multi-purpose Quinton-Rubin tube and subsequent perforation is noted. The possibility of these events being causally related is discussed.", "PMID": 456219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12091", "title": "Nasogastric suction in alcoholic pancreatitis.", "content": "In order to assess the usefulness of nasogastric suction in acute alcoholic pancreatitis, 37 patients with alcoholic pancreatitis were prospectively investigated. The study failed to demonstrate efficacy of nasogastric suction in those patients with mild disease. Application of a system of prognostic signs proved useful in discriminating between mild and severe disease. Routine use of ultrasound examinations detected three pancreatic pseudocysts before they became clinically apparent. In instituting appropriate therapy in mild pancreatitis, factors such as patient comfort should be considered in the absence of proven significant value of nasogastric suction.", "contents": "Nasogastric suction in alcoholic pancreatitis. In order to assess the usefulness of nasogastric suction in acute alcoholic pancreatitis, 37 patients with alcoholic pancreatitis were prospectively investigated. The study failed to demonstrate efficacy of nasogastric suction in those patients with mild disease. Application of a system of prognostic signs proved useful in discriminating between mild and severe disease. Routine use of ultrasound examinations detected three pancreatic pseudocysts before they became clinically apparent. In instituting appropriate therapy in mild pancreatitis, factors such as patient comfort should be considered in the absence of proven significant value of nasogastric suction.", "PMID": 456221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12092", "title": "[67Ga]citrate scintiscanning in active inflammatory bowel disease.", "content": "Twenty-five hospitalized patients were studied prospectively with [67Ga]citrate (GA) abdominal scintillation scanning in an attempt to define its role in the evaluation of patients with active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There were nine patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), seven with Crohn's disease (CD), and nine controls. In four patients, two with UC and two with CD, a tissue/plasma radioactivity ratio was obtained and compared to normals. All the UC patients had positive GA scans and only one of seven of the CD patients had a positive scan. There were no false positive scans. Scans performed after a 3- or 5-day delay were more accurate than 6-hr scans alone. Well-delineated colinic radioactivity 6 hr after injection which persists for 3 to 5 days indicates the presence of UC in patients with IBD, while a negative scan is more consistent with active CD. Colonic uptake at 6 hr which clears by 48 or 72 hr is not indicative of UC. This procedure aided in following the course of UC, delineating the extent of disease, and in differentiating active CD from an intraabdominal abscess. Tissues from UC patients had increased tissue/plasma ratioactivity ratios while tissues from CD patients had normal or decreased ratios which were consistent with the imaging data.", "contents": "[67Ga]citrate scintiscanning in active inflammatory bowel disease. Twenty-five hospitalized patients were studied prospectively with [67Ga]citrate (GA) abdominal scintillation scanning in an attempt to define its role in the evaluation of patients with active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There were nine patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), seven with Crohn's disease (CD), and nine controls. In four patients, two with UC and two with CD, a tissue/plasma radioactivity ratio was obtained and compared to normals. All the UC patients had positive GA scans and only one of seven of the CD patients had a positive scan. There were no false positive scans. Scans performed after a 3- or 5-day delay were more accurate than 6-hr scans alone. Well-delineated colinic radioactivity 6 hr after injection which persists for 3 to 5 days indicates the presence of UC in patients with IBD, while a negative scan is more consistent with active CD. Colonic uptake at 6 hr which clears by 48 or 72 hr is not indicative of UC. This procedure aided in following the course of UC, delineating the extent of disease, and in differentiating active CD from an intraabdominal abscess. Tissues from UC patients had increased tissue/plasma ratioactivity ratios while tissues from CD patients had normal or decreased ratios which were consistent with the imaging data.", "PMID": 456222} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12093", "title": "Scanning electron microscopy of rectal mucosa in Crohn's disease.", "content": "Rectal biopsies from healthy control subjects, and from patients with Crohn's disease whose rectal mucosa appeared normal by sigmoidoscopy and light microscopy, were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Appearances within both groups were quite variable, and no clear differences between the groups could be distinguished.", "contents": "Scanning electron microscopy of rectal mucosa in Crohn's disease. Rectal biopsies from healthy control subjects, and from patients with Crohn's disease whose rectal mucosa appeared normal by sigmoidoscopy and light microscopy, were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Appearances within both groups were quite variable, and no clear differences between the groups could be distinguished.", "PMID": 456223} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12094", "title": "The effect of 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2 on meal-stimulated gastric acid secretion, serum gastrin, and pancreatic polypeptide in duodenal ulcer patients.", "content": "The effects of 100-microgram of 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2 on meal-stimulated acid secretion, serum gastrin, and pancreatic polypeptide concentrations were measured in patients with duodenal ulcer. The drug given in encapsulated or unencapsulated form significantly reduced gastric acid secretion by 59% or 70%, respectively. Rises in serum gastrin and pancreatic polypeptide concentrations after the meal were significantly blunted by 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2. This dose of prostaglandin led to no side effects and merits clinical evaluation in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease.", "contents": "The effect of 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2 on meal-stimulated gastric acid secretion, serum gastrin, and pancreatic polypeptide in duodenal ulcer patients. The effects of 100-microgram of 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2 on meal-stimulated acid secretion, serum gastrin, and pancreatic polypeptide concentrations were measured in patients with duodenal ulcer. The drug given in encapsulated or unencapsulated form significantly reduced gastric acid secretion by 59% or 70%, respectively. Rises in serum gastrin and pancreatic polypeptide concentrations after the meal were significantly blunted by 15(R)-15-methyl prostaglandin E2. This dose of prostaglandin led to no side effects and merits clinical evaluation in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease.", "PMID": 456224} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12095", "title": "Cholestatic and hepatocellular injury associated with erythromycin esters: report of nine cases.", "content": "A combined cholestatic and hepatocellular injury occurred in nine patients, following therapy with erythromycin estolate (EE) or other erythromycin derivatives. Eight of the nine patients developed jaundice within three weeks after initiation of treatment; pain was one of the main symptoms in five patients while fever and itching were noted in four patients. Symptoms and signs subsided and abnormal tests of liver function returned to normal after withdrawal of the drug. The major histologic finding was cholestasis, but the majority of cases also had evidence of hepatocellular injury of variable severity; one biopsy specimen showed centrilobular necrosis. Ultrastructural findings in one case included changes related to cholestasis as well as hepatocellular injury with striking mitochondrial abnormalities. Our data are compared with those of the literature, with special reference to morphologic features.", "contents": "Cholestatic and hepatocellular injury associated with erythromycin esters: report of nine cases. A combined cholestatic and hepatocellular injury occurred in nine patients, following therapy with erythromycin estolate (EE) or other erythromycin derivatives. Eight of the nine patients developed jaundice within three weeks after initiation of treatment; pain was one of the main symptoms in five patients while fever and itching were noted in four patients. Symptoms and signs subsided and abnormal tests of liver function returned to normal after withdrawal of the drug. The major histologic finding was cholestasis, but the majority of cases also had evidence of hepatocellular injury of variable severity; one biopsy specimen showed centrilobular necrosis. Ultrastructural findings in one case included changes related to cholestasis as well as hepatocellular injury with striking mitochondrial abnormalities. Our data are compared with those of the literature, with special reference to morphologic features.", "PMID": 456225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12096", "title": "Pancreatic duct arteriovenous fistula and the metastatic fat necrosis syndrome.", "content": "This report summarizes the course of a patient with asymptomatic chronic pancreatitis associated with hemorrhage into the pancreatic duct and metastatic fat necrosis. Retrograde cannulation of the pancreatic duct and superior mesenteric arteriography established the presence of a pseudocyst with a pancreatic duct-arteriovenous (DAV) fistula as the cause of the syndrome. Ligation of feeder vessels with external drainage of the cyst as the initial surgical procedure stopped the bleeding but failed to prevent recurrence of the pancreatic duct-venous fistula. A pancreaticoduodenectomy with resection of the cyst and fistula was required to arrest destruction of distant tissues. Although serum and urine amylase concentrations were markedly elevated, serum lipase levels were normal throughout the patient's course. Elevation of serum lipase does not seem to be a necessary condition for the development of the metastatic fat necrosis syndrome.", "contents": "Pancreatic duct arteriovenous fistula and the metastatic fat necrosis syndrome. This report summarizes the course of a patient with asymptomatic chronic pancreatitis associated with hemorrhage into the pancreatic duct and metastatic fat necrosis. Retrograde cannulation of the pancreatic duct and superior mesenteric arteriography established the presence of a pseudocyst with a pancreatic duct-arteriovenous (DAV) fistula as the cause of the syndrome. Ligation of feeder vessels with external drainage of the cyst as the initial surgical procedure stopped the bleeding but failed to prevent recurrence of the pancreatic duct-venous fistula. A pancreaticoduodenectomy with resection of the cyst and fistula was required to arrest destruction of distant tissues. Although serum and urine amylase concentrations were markedly elevated, serum lipase levels were normal throughout the patient's course. Elevation of serum lipase does not seem to be a necessary condition for the development of the metastatic fat necrosis syndrome.", "PMID": 456226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12097", "title": "Quantitative effect of oral feeding on gastrointestinal myoelectric activity in the conscious dog.", "content": "Gastrointestinal myoelectric activity was recorded in seven studies in five dogs during two hours of fasting immediately followed by feeding and subsequent recording for four hours. In four studies serial plasma samples were taken for radioimmunoassay of insulin and gastrin. In all animals there was a significant reduction (P less than 0.01) in gastric basic electrical rhythm (BER) frequency on feeding which was sustained throughout the postprandial period. There was no change in the duodenal BER. Feeding induced a significant (P less than 0.01) increase in overall jejunal and ileal (but not duodenal) spike activity. Ileal (but not jejunal) spike activity again increased significantly (P less than 0.05) after the first two post-prandial hours. The changes in serum gastrin or in serum insulin did not appear to account for most of the observed changes in myoelectric activity, suggesting that other humoral and/or neural factors mediate the response to food.", "contents": "Quantitative effect of oral feeding on gastrointestinal myoelectric activity in the conscious dog. Gastrointestinal myoelectric activity was recorded in seven studies in five dogs during two hours of fasting immediately followed by feeding and subsequent recording for four hours. In four studies serial plasma samples were taken for radioimmunoassay of insulin and gastrin. In all animals there was a significant reduction (P less than 0.01) in gastric basic electrical rhythm (BER) frequency on feeding which was sustained throughout the postprandial period. There was no change in the duodenal BER. Feeding induced a significant (P less than 0.01) increase in overall jejunal and ileal (but not duodenal) spike activity. Ileal (but not jejunal) spike activity again increased significantly (P less than 0.05) after the first two post-prandial hours. The changes in serum gastrin or in serum insulin did not appear to account for most of the observed changes in myoelectric activity, suggesting that other humoral and/or neural factors mediate the response to food.", "PMID": 456227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12098", "title": "Transport kinetics of D-glucose in human small intestinal mucosa: rate constants in histologically normal and abnormal mucosal biopsies.", "content": "Using D-glucose as the probe molecule, we analysed conditions which must be fulfilled in mucosal biopsy studies before the kinetic nature of the transport process can be established. Mucosal biopsies were obtained from the region of the ligament of Treitz from four healthy volunteers and from 47 patients: 29 of the 47 had histologically normal mucosa; seven had mild abnormalities; and 11 had moderate or severe (\"flat\") abnormalities in villus architecture. The rate of uptake of 40 mM glucose was constant only between 4 and 10 min, extrapolating through zero uptake at zero time with a constant adherent mucosal fluid volume. Incubation for shorter or longer periods was associated with over- or underestimation of the rate of uptake. Failure to use a nonabsorbable marker was also associated with overestimation of the rate of uptake. When biopsies were incubated for 6 min, a curvilinear relationship was observed between uptake rate and concentration. In biopsies with moderate and severe abnormalities, there was a marked reduction in the magnitude of the maximal transport rate and the apparent passive permeability coefficient, with little change in the magnitude of the apparent affinity constant. When human mucosal biopsies are used to study nutrient absorption, certain criteria must be fulfilled to establish valid rate constants and to make comparisons between normal and abnormal mucosa.", "contents": "Transport kinetics of D-glucose in human small intestinal mucosa: rate constants in histologically normal and abnormal mucosal biopsies. Using D-glucose as the probe molecule, we analysed conditions which must be fulfilled in mucosal biopsy studies before the kinetic nature of the transport process can be established. Mucosal biopsies were obtained from the region of the ligament of Treitz from four healthy volunteers and from 47 patients: 29 of the 47 had histologically normal mucosa; seven had mild abnormalities; and 11 had moderate or severe (\"flat\") abnormalities in villus architecture. The rate of uptake of 40 mM glucose was constant only between 4 and 10 min, extrapolating through zero uptake at zero time with a constant adherent mucosal fluid volume. Incubation for shorter or longer periods was associated with over- or underestimation of the rate of uptake. Failure to use a nonabsorbable marker was also associated with overestimation of the rate of uptake. When biopsies were incubated for 6 min, a curvilinear relationship was observed between uptake rate and concentration. In biopsies with moderate and severe abnormalities, there was a marked reduction in the magnitude of the maximal transport rate and the apparent passive permeability coefficient, with little change in the magnitude of the apparent affinity constant. When human mucosal biopsies are used to study nutrient absorption, certain criteria must be fulfilled to establish valid rate constants and to make comparisons between normal and abnormal mucosa.", "PMID": 456228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12099", "title": "The effects of a prostaglandin endoperoxide analogue on canine gastric acid and mucus secretion.", "content": "The effects of U-46619, a stable analogue of the prostaglandin endoperoxide PGH2, were studied on canine gastric acid secretion, gastric mucosal blood flow, and secretion of mucus into gastric juice and compared to those of PGE2. U-46619 was approximately four and three times as potent as PGE2 in inhibiting acid secretion and stimulating mucus secretion, respectively. When infused at a low dose, U-46619 inhibited acid secretion directly without causing a decrease in the ratio of mucosal blood flow to volume rate of secretion (R), this effect being similar to that observed for PGE2. However, unlike PGE2, U-46619 when administered in a higher dose caused a decline in R while decreasing acid secretion and mucosal blood flow, suggesting a primary restriction of blood flow. The antisecretory effects of arachidonic acid may be due in part to the endogenous formation of prostaglandin endoperoxides as opposed solely to prostaglandin formation. Considering the antisecretory and mucogenic actions of U-46619, nontoxic analogues of prostaglandin endoperoxides may be of value as antiulcer agents.", "contents": "The effects of a prostaglandin endoperoxide analogue on canine gastric acid and mucus secretion. The effects of U-46619, a stable analogue of the prostaglandin endoperoxide PGH2, were studied on canine gastric acid secretion, gastric mucosal blood flow, and secretion of mucus into gastric juice and compared to those of PGE2. U-46619 was approximately four and three times as potent as PGE2 in inhibiting acid secretion and stimulating mucus secretion, respectively. When infused at a low dose, U-46619 inhibited acid secretion directly without causing a decrease in the ratio of mucosal blood flow to volume rate of secretion (R), this effect being similar to that observed for PGE2. However, unlike PGE2, U-46619 when administered in a higher dose caused a decline in R while decreasing acid secretion and mucosal blood flow, suggesting a primary restriction of blood flow. The antisecretory effects of arachidonic acid may be due in part to the endogenous formation of prostaglandin endoperoxides as opposed solely to prostaglandin formation. Considering the antisecretory and mucogenic actions of U-46619, nontoxic analogues of prostaglandin endoperoxides may be of value as antiulcer agents.", "PMID": 456229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12100", "title": "Efficacy of the morphine-prostigmin test for evaluating patients with suspected papillary stenosis.", "content": "The morphine-Prostigmin test (MPT) has been advocated as a diagnostic test for identifying patients with papillary stenosis. We studied 14 patients referred for possible papillary stenosis with the MPT and ERCP sphincter of Oddi manometry. The response to the MPT (symptoms, serum amylase/lipase values) was evaluated by multiple criteria. The MPT was also done on 6 volunteer control subjects. Operative evaluation of the sphincter of Oddi was obtained in 8 of the 14 patients. There was no correlation between the results of the MPT and ERCP manometry or operative findings. There was good correlation, however, between ERCP manometric findings and operative assessment of the sphincter of Oddi. Fifty percent of the volunteer subjects had a significantly positive enzyme response to the MPT. In our experience the MPT does not reliably detect patients with papillary stenosis.", "contents": "Efficacy of the morphine-prostigmin test for evaluating patients with suspected papillary stenosis. The morphine-Prostigmin test (MPT) has been advocated as a diagnostic test for identifying patients with papillary stenosis. We studied 14 patients referred for possible papillary stenosis with the MPT and ERCP sphincter of Oddi manometry. The response to the MPT (symptoms, serum amylase/lipase values) was evaluated by multiple criteria. The MPT was also done on 6 volunteer control subjects. Operative evaluation of the sphincter of Oddi was obtained in 8 of the 14 patients. There was no correlation between the results of the MPT and ERCP manometry or operative findings. There was good correlation, however, between ERCP manometric findings and operative assessment of the sphincter of Oddi. Fifty percent of the volunteer subjects had a significantly positive enzyme response to the MPT. In our experience the MPT does not reliably detect patients with papillary stenosis.", "PMID": 456230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12101", "title": "Effects of long-term cimetidine on serum gastrin in duodenal ulcer.", "content": "Basal and food-stimulated gastrin were measured in 16 patients with duodenal ulcer before and during long-term maintenance therapy with 400 mg cimetidine twice daily. Basal gastrin (mean +/- SE) rose significantly from 27.5 +/- 3.1 pmol/liter precimetidine to 32.8 +/- 2.1, 37.2 +/- 2.6, and 38.5 +/- 3.3 pmol/liter at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The total integrated gastrin response to a protein meal was 1.67 +/- 0.18 nmol/liter/120 min pre-, and 2.54 +/- 0.35, 3.29 +/- 0.3, and 4.36 +/- 0.4 nmol/liter/120 min at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. These increases were significantly higher at each time period. This study has thus demonstrated a progressive increase in both basal and food-stimulated gastrin during cimetidine therapy, and this increase could theoretically lead to an increase in gastric acid secretion following cessation of cimetidine.", "contents": "Effects of long-term cimetidine on serum gastrin in duodenal ulcer. Basal and food-stimulated gastrin were measured in 16 patients with duodenal ulcer before and during long-term maintenance therapy with 400 mg cimetidine twice daily. Basal gastrin (mean +/- SE) rose significantly from 27.5 +/- 3.1 pmol/liter precimetidine to 32.8 +/- 2.1, 37.2 +/- 2.6, and 38.5 +/- 3.3 pmol/liter at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The total integrated gastrin response to a protein meal was 1.67 +/- 0.18 nmol/liter/120 min pre-, and 2.54 +/- 0.35, 3.29 +/- 0.3, and 4.36 +/- 0.4 nmol/liter/120 min at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. These increases were significantly higher at each time period. This study has thus demonstrated a progressive increase in both basal and food-stimulated gastrin during cimetidine therapy, and this increase could theoretically lead to an increase in gastric acid secretion following cessation of cimetidine.", "PMID": 456231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12102", "title": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome with pneumopericardium.", "content": "A 55-year-old white male was found to have the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome in 1971. Supposed total gastrectomy was performed at that time. When an esophageal ulcer was found, six years later, esophagoscopic biopsy revealed residual gastric mucosa. The patient was given cimetidine 300 mg qid because it was felt he could not tolerate further surgery. After eight months of cimetidine therapy, the patient was admitted to the hospital because of retrosternal pain. Pneumopericardium was discovered, and at autopsy a large penetrating gastrojejunal ulcer was demonstrated.", "contents": "Zollinger-Ellison syndrome with pneumopericardium. A 55-year-old white male was found to have the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome in 1971. Supposed total gastrectomy was performed at that time. When an esophageal ulcer was found, six years later, esophagoscopic biopsy revealed residual gastric mucosa. The patient was given cimetidine 300 mg qid because it was felt he could not tolerate further surgery. After eight months of cimetidine therapy, the patient was admitted to the hospital because of retrosternal pain. Pneumopericardium was discovered, and at autopsy a large penetrating gastrojejunal ulcer was demonstrated.", "PMID": 456233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12103", "title": "Peyronie's disease and sclerosing cholangitis in a patient with ulcerative colitis.", "content": "A 51-year-old patient with a 30-year history of ulcerative colitis developed sclerosing cholangitis and later Peyronie's disease. The occurrence of these diseases in the same patient supports the view of an immunological origin of these associated disorders.", "contents": "Peyronie's disease and sclerosing cholangitis in a patient with ulcerative colitis. A 51-year-old patient with a 30-year history of ulcerative colitis developed sclerosing cholangitis and later Peyronie's disease. The occurrence of these diseases in the same patient supports the view of an immunological origin of these associated disorders.", "PMID": 456234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12104", "title": "Motilin and the interdigestive migrating motor complex in man.", "content": "In order to assess the possible role of the new candidate gut hormone, motilin, in controlling the interdigestive migrating motor complex (MMC) in man, 14 normal subjects were studied after an overnight fast by means of three pressure-recording catheters with orifices 25 cm apart in the upper small intestine. The typical aboral progressing bursts of pressure waves occurred at a mean interval of 137 minutes and were preceded by a peak motilin level 25 pmol/liter higher than the lowest level in the postactivity-front quiescent period. To study the effect of exogenous motilin, an infusion of pure porcine motilin at various dose levels was given to 16 normal volunteers shortly after the onset of the phase I quiescent period. Motilin infusion induced an activity front in 12 of the 16 subjects. The mean activity front interval was reduced to 46 min (P less than 0.001). This effect could be obtained even at the low dose level of 0.4 pmol/kg/min, which produced an increase in plasma motilin level of only 57 pmol/liter. These data suggest that a cyclic rise in plasma motilin levels is one of the factors involved in the production of the activity front of the migrating motor complex in man.", "contents": "Motilin and the interdigestive migrating motor complex in man. In order to assess the possible role of the new candidate gut hormone, motilin, in controlling the interdigestive migrating motor complex (MMC) in man, 14 normal subjects were studied after an overnight fast by means of three pressure-recording catheters with orifices 25 cm apart in the upper small intestine. The typical aboral progressing bursts of pressure waves occurred at a mean interval of 137 minutes and were preceded by a peak motilin level 25 pmol/liter higher than the lowest level in the postactivity-front quiescent period. To study the effect of exogenous motilin, an infusion of pure porcine motilin at various dose levels was given to 16 normal volunteers shortly after the onset of the phase I quiescent period. Motilin infusion induced an activity front in 12 of the 16 subjects. The mean activity front interval was reduced to 46 min (P less than 0.001). This effect could be obtained even at the low dose level of 0.4 pmol/kg/min, which produced an increase in plasma motilin level of only 57 pmol/liter. These data suggest that a cyclic rise in plasma motilin levels is one of the factors involved in the production of the activity front of the migrating motor complex in man.", "PMID": 456236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12105", "title": "Glucagon effects on the human small intestine.", "content": "In healthy volunteers, the effects of intravenously administered glucagon on small intestinal function was investigated. Bolus doses resulting in plasma glucagon concentrations of greater than 800 pg/ml (5 min after injection) abolished jejunal contractions for 4.4 +/- 0.4 (SEM) min after a latency period of 49 +/- 4 sec. During continuous intravenous glucagon infusion, jejunal dilatation and increase in mean transit time (MTT) occurred at plasma levels greater than 720 pg/ml, while inhibition of water and electrolyte absorption was observed only with plasma glucagon concentrations of 1760 +/- 114 pg/ml. Under these conditions, the propulsion of fasting intestinal contents was slowed without change in flow rate. The observed effects cannot be attributed to the simultaneously occurring rise in plasma insulin and glucose concentrations. Short-term increases in circulating glucagon concentration inhibit intestinal tone, contractions, and propulsion with only a minor effect on water and electrolyte absorption limited to a narrow concentration range of plasma glucagon. Neither effect occurs at glucagon levels likely to occur under physiologic concentrations. The latency period preceding the abolition of jejunal contractions suggests that glucagon does not act directly on intestinal smooth muscle cells.", "contents": "Glucagon effects on the human small intestine. In healthy volunteers, the effects of intravenously administered glucagon on small intestinal function was investigated. Bolus doses resulting in plasma glucagon concentrations of greater than 800 pg/ml (5 min after injection) abolished jejunal contractions for 4.4 +/- 0.4 (SEM) min after a latency period of 49 +/- 4 sec. During continuous intravenous glucagon infusion, jejunal dilatation and increase in mean transit time (MTT) occurred at plasma levels greater than 720 pg/ml, while inhibition of water and electrolyte absorption was observed only with plasma glucagon concentrations of 1760 +/- 114 pg/ml. Under these conditions, the propulsion of fasting intestinal contents was slowed without change in flow rate. The observed effects cannot be attributed to the simultaneously occurring rise in plasma insulin and glucose concentrations. Short-term increases in circulating glucagon concentration inhibit intestinal tone, contractions, and propulsion with only a minor effect on water and electrolyte absorption limited to a narrow concentration range of plasma glucagon. Neither effect occurs at glucagon levels likely to occur under physiologic concentrations. The latency period preceding the abolition of jejunal contractions suggests that glucagon does not act directly on intestinal smooth muscle cells.", "PMID": 456237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12106", "title": "Active E rosette-forming cells in the peripheral blood of patients with chronic active hepatitis.", "content": "E rosette-forming cells (E-RFC) and active E-RFC were studied in the peripheral blood in patients with chronic active hepatitis (CAH), chronic persistent hepatitis (CPH), and in control subjects. A significant reduction in active E-RFC (a subpopulation of T lymphocytes considered actively involved in cell-mediated immune reactions) was found in patients with untreated CAH, both HBSAg positive or negative. In contrast, patients with immunosuppressive-treated CAH showed an increased relative number of active E-RFC. A significant increase in active E-RFC was demonstrable in other immunosuppressive-treated chronic inflammatory disorders. In CPH active E-RFC were not different from normal controls. The number of E-RFC showed a relative and absolute decrease in both CPH and untreated CAH. These studies demonstrate an increase in active E-RFC in immunosuppressive-treated CAH and suggest that prednisone and azathioprine may have a differential effect on T lymphocyte subpopulations.", "contents": "Active E rosette-forming cells in the peripheral blood of patients with chronic active hepatitis. E rosette-forming cells (E-RFC) and active E-RFC were studied in the peripheral blood in patients with chronic active hepatitis (CAH), chronic persistent hepatitis (CPH), and in control subjects. A significant reduction in active E-RFC (a subpopulation of T lymphocytes considered actively involved in cell-mediated immune reactions) was found in patients with untreated CAH, both HBSAg positive or negative. In contrast, patients with immunosuppressive-treated CAH showed an increased relative number of active E-RFC. A significant increase in active E-RFC was demonstrable in other immunosuppressive-treated chronic inflammatory disorders. In CPH active E-RFC were not different from normal controls. The number of E-RFC showed a relative and absolute decrease in both CPH and untreated CAH. These studies demonstrate an increase in active E-RFC in immunosuppressive-treated CAH and suggest that prednisone and azathioprine may have a differential effect on T lymphocyte subpopulations.", "PMID": 456238} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12107", "title": "A new animal model with hyperbilirubinemia: the indigo snake.", "content": "An unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia has been observed in all species of normal indigo snakes. The plasma clearance of large organic anions such as sulfobromophthalein and unconjugated bilirubin was markedly delayed when compared to other snake species. Endogenous bile flow and biliverdin and bilirubin excretory rates and the excretion of bile pigments after a bilirubin load were measured in various snakes. The indigo snake represents a new animal model in which to study mechanisms important to hepatic anion uptake and biliary transport.", "contents": "A new animal model with hyperbilirubinemia: the indigo snake. An unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia has been observed in all species of normal indigo snakes. The plasma clearance of large organic anions such as sulfobromophthalein and unconjugated bilirubin was markedly delayed when compared to other snake species. Endogenous bile flow and biliverdin and bilirubin excretory rates and the excretion of bile pigments after a bilirubin load were measured in various snakes. The indigo snake represents a new animal model in which to study mechanisms important to hepatic anion uptake and biliary transport.", "PMID": 456239} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12108", "title": "A syndrome of acute self-limiting ulcerative esophagitis in young adults probably due to herpes simplex virus.", "content": "Five healthy young adults developed an acute self-limiting ulcerative esophagitis. Two had definite evidence of herpes virus being present and a third one had appropriate changes in herpes simplex viral titer. All cases followed a characteristic and similar course consisting of sudden onset of odynophagia, multiple discrete small ulcers in the esophagus and herpetiform lesions elsewhere in the skin or mouth. Although most previous reports of herpes esophagitis indicate that it is an \"opportunistic\" infection in debilitated hosts, the present report indicates that this infection, in patients who are otherwise well, may occur more frequently than one would have previously suspected. Therefore, herpes simplex virus should be considered as a possible etiological agent in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with a sudden onset of odynophagia.", "contents": "A syndrome of acute self-limiting ulcerative esophagitis in young adults probably due to herpes simplex virus. Five healthy young adults developed an acute self-limiting ulcerative esophagitis. Two had definite evidence of herpes virus being present and a third one had appropriate changes in herpes simplex viral titer. All cases followed a characteristic and similar course consisting of sudden onset of odynophagia, multiple discrete small ulcers in the esophagus and herpetiform lesions elsewhere in the skin or mouth. Although most previous reports of herpes esophagitis indicate that it is an \"opportunistic\" infection in debilitated hosts, the present report indicates that this infection, in patients who are otherwise well, may occur more frequently than one would have previously suspected. Therefore, herpes simplex virus should be considered as a possible etiological agent in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with a sudden onset of odynophagia.", "PMID": 456240} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12109", "title": "Colonic absorption of unconjugated bile acids: perfusion studies in man.", "content": "Colonic absorption of three major unconjugated bile acids--cholate, chenodeoxycholate, and deoxycholate--was measured under steady-state conditions using a technique of colonic perfusion in healthy volunteers. Aqueous solutions at pH 8.0 and varying in concentration from 1 mM to 10 mM were used. The rate of chenodeoxycholate absorption averaged nine times that of cholate absorption; deoxycholate absorption was somewhat less than that of chenodeoxycholate absorption, averaging six times that of cholate. At concentrations below 5 mM, the rate of absorption of bile acids was directly proportional to concentration, so that \"clearance\" could be calculated. Clearance values for a 1-mM solution (ml/min/colon, mean +/- SE) were: chenodeoxycholate, 9.84 +/- 1.0; deoxycholate, 7.0 +/- 1; and cholate, 0.82 +/- 0.10. Since absorption was proportional to concentration in the lumen, and was more rapid for the dihydroxy acids, the major mechanism of absorption was thought to be passive nonionic diffusion. Maximal rates of bile acid absorption were calculated from a 1-mM solution and found to be as high as 4.2 g/day for chenodeoxycholate, 3.2 g/day for deoxycholate, and 0.5 g/day for cholate, and the rate would be still greater for more concentrated solutions. Colonic absorption may contribute significantly to conservation of the dihydroxy bile acid pool, especially in conditions of bile acid malabsorption.", "contents": "Colonic absorption of unconjugated bile acids: perfusion studies in man. Colonic absorption of three major unconjugated bile acids--cholate, chenodeoxycholate, and deoxycholate--was measured under steady-state conditions using a technique of colonic perfusion in healthy volunteers. Aqueous solutions at pH 8.0 and varying in concentration from 1 mM to 10 mM were used. The rate of chenodeoxycholate absorption averaged nine times that of cholate absorption; deoxycholate absorption was somewhat less than that of chenodeoxycholate absorption, averaging six times that of cholate. At concentrations below 5 mM, the rate of absorption of bile acids was directly proportional to concentration, so that \"clearance\" could be calculated. Clearance values for a 1-mM solution (ml/min/colon, mean +/- SE) were: chenodeoxycholate, 9.84 +/- 1.0; deoxycholate, 7.0 +/- 1; and cholate, 0.82 +/- 0.10. Since absorption was proportional to concentration in the lumen, and was more rapid for the dihydroxy acids, the major mechanism of absorption was thought to be passive nonionic diffusion. Maximal rates of bile acid absorption were calculated from a 1-mM solution and found to be as high as 4.2 g/day for chenodeoxycholate, 3.2 g/day for deoxycholate, and 0.5 g/day for cholate, and the rate would be still greater for more concentrated solutions. Colonic absorption may contribute significantly to conservation of the dihydroxy bile acid pool, especially in conditions of bile acid malabsorption.", "PMID": 456241} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12110", "title": "Hepaticoportal fistula and portal hypertension.", "content": "A large intrahepatic fistula between the hepatic artery and portal vein was detected at angiography in a patient with portal hypertension and bleeding esophageal varices. Hemodynamic studies demonstrated that increased vascular resistance in the liver rather than increased flow through the fistula was responsible for the portal hypertension and a portocaval shunt was performed. A repeat angiogram two months after the operation showed that the fistula had closed spontaneously.", "contents": "Hepaticoportal fistula and portal hypertension. A large intrahepatic fistula between the hepatic artery and portal vein was detected at angiography in a patient with portal hypertension and bleeding esophageal varices. Hemodynamic studies demonstrated that increased vascular resistance in the liver rather than increased flow through the fistula was responsible for the portal hypertension and a portocaval shunt was performed. A repeat angiogram two months after the operation showed that the fistula had closed spontaneously.", "PMID": 456243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12111", "title": "[Gardner's syndrome (author's transl)].", "content": "An exact history was taken and clinical, endoscopic and histologic studies were performed in 14 family members of a case of Gardner's syndrome with triple symptomatology documented with biopsy and autopsy findings. Among the symptom-free probands five cases of colonic polyposis and three cases with gastric polyps were found. All polyps were histologically adenomatous. Dysplasias grade I and II were found repeatedly, in one 16-year-old adolescent there was already severe dysplasia within the gastric mucosal polyps. A warning is given against sub-classification of familial colonic polyposis and other syndromes within the definition of Gardner's syndrome. In future during diagnostic investigations for cases of Gardner's syndrome isolated gastric polyposis should be sought for as well as monosymptomatic colonic polyposis. Diagnostic procedures and treatment should depend on endoscopic and histological findings. Regular follow-up with endoscopic biopsies are to be encouraged not only in the diseased cases but also in all family members available.", "contents": "[Gardner's syndrome (author's transl)]. An exact history was taken and clinical, endoscopic and histologic studies were performed in 14 family members of a case of Gardner's syndrome with triple symptomatology documented with biopsy and autopsy findings. Among the symptom-free probands five cases of colonic polyposis and three cases with gastric polyps were found. All polyps were histologically adenomatous. Dysplasias grade I and II were found repeatedly, in one 16-year-old adolescent there was already severe dysplasia within the gastric mucosal polyps. A warning is given against sub-classification of familial colonic polyposis and other syndromes within the definition of Gardner's syndrome. In future during diagnostic investigations for cases of Gardner's syndrome isolated gastric polyposis should be sought for as well as monosymptomatic colonic polyposis. Diagnostic procedures and treatment should depend on endoscopic and histological findings. Regular follow-up with endoscopic biopsies are to be encouraged not only in the diseased cases but also in all family members available.", "PMID": 456254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12112", "title": "[Combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy of localized and metastasizing Ewing's sarcoma (author's transl)].", "content": "Between 1973 and 1978 combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given to 22 patients with histologically proven Ewing's sarcoma. The combined chemotherapy consisted of cyclophosphamide, vincristin, adriamycin, as well as dacarbazine in some cases. The neoplasm was a localized one at the beginning of treatment in 14 of the 22. These patients received high-voltage radiotherapy to the primary focus at a focal dose between 42 and 55 Gray (4200-5500 rad), followed by chemotherapy. After 6--8 treatment cycles, adriamycin was replaced by methotrexate. Nine of the 14 patients survived without recurrence for 12 to over 59 months. Eight patients had extensive metastases at the beginning of treatment: they at first received only chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy or operation, as indicated. Full clinical remission was achieved in five of them: in three this remission has now lasted for more than 18, 40 and 44 months, respectively. These results indicate that (1) additional chemotherapy improves the prognosis of localized Ewing's sarcoma, and (2) even in far-progressed cases the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy can achieve lasting remission, which may in fact be a true cure.", "contents": "[Combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy of localized and metastasizing Ewing's sarcoma (author's transl)]. Between 1973 and 1978 combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given to 22 patients with histologically proven Ewing's sarcoma. The combined chemotherapy consisted of cyclophosphamide, vincristin, adriamycin, as well as dacarbazine in some cases. The neoplasm was a localized one at the beginning of treatment in 14 of the 22. These patients received high-voltage radiotherapy to the primary focus at a focal dose between 42 and 55 Gray (4200-5500 rad), followed by chemotherapy. After 6--8 treatment cycles, adriamycin was replaced by methotrexate. Nine of the 14 patients survived without recurrence for 12 to over 59 months. Eight patients had extensive metastases at the beginning of treatment: they at first received only chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy or operation, as indicated. Full clinical remission was achieved in five of them: in three this remission has now lasted for more than 18, 40 and 44 months, respectively. These results indicate that (1) additional chemotherapy improves the prognosis of localized Ewing's sarcoma, and (2) even in far-progressed cases the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy can achieve lasting remission, which may in fact be a true cure.", "PMID": 456255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12113", "title": "[Glucose tolerance in the course of treating endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia (author's transl)].", "content": "Abnormal glucose tolerance was found in 30 of 100 patients with endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia (74 males, 26 females, age 45.9 +/- 11.4 years, Broca index 116 +/- 25%; 44 type II b, 7 type III and 49 type IV hyperlipoproteinaemia). In 19 cases the abnormal glucose tolerance was discovered during treatment with diet and, if necessary, lipid-lowering substances for an average of 5.8 +/- 2.8 years. Compared with the normal population there was in these patients an 8- to 10-fold increase in the incidence of abnormal glucose tolerance. Therapy-induced lowering of the serum triglyceride concentration was followed by an improvement of the abnormal glucose tolerance. The \"antidiabetic\" effect of hyperlipidaemia treatment was only slightly improved by concurrent weight reduction. These results indicate that the treatment of hyperlipidaemia in patients with endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia is of importance in the prevention of diabetes.", "contents": "[Glucose tolerance in the course of treating endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia (author's transl)]. Abnormal glucose tolerance was found in 30 of 100 patients with endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia (74 males, 26 females, age 45.9 +/- 11.4 years, Broca index 116 +/- 25%; 44 type II b, 7 type III and 49 type IV hyperlipoproteinaemia). In 19 cases the abnormal glucose tolerance was discovered during treatment with diet and, if necessary, lipid-lowering substances for an average of 5.8 +/- 2.8 years. Compared with the normal population there was in these patients an 8- to 10-fold increase in the incidence of abnormal glucose tolerance. Therapy-induced lowering of the serum triglyceride concentration was followed by an improvement of the abnormal glucose tolerance. The \"antidiabetic\" effect of hyperlipidaemia treatment was only slightly improved by concurrent weight reduction. These results indicate that the treatment of hyperlipidaemia in patients with endogenous hypertriglyceridaemia is of importance in the prevention of diabetes.", "PMID": 456256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12114", "title": "[Sniffing addiction: chronic solvent abuse with neurotoxic effects in children and juveniles (author's transl)].", "content": "25 cases of clinically severe toxic polyneuropathy were observed among young people in Berlin who were addicted to sniffing methylethylketone-containing solvents. The peripheral motor defects took 2 1/2 to 3 years to regress. In severe cases there were additional spastic signs. This form of neurotoxic effect can be reproduced in animals. It is due to a disorder of axonal transport which destroys peripheral and central axons.", "contents": "[Sniffing addiction: chronic solvent abuse with neurotoxic effects in children and juveniles (author's transl)]. 25 cases of clinically severe toxic polyneuropathy were observed among young people in Berlin who were addicted to sniffing methylethylketone-containing solvents. The peripheral motor defects took 2 1/2 to 3 years to regress. In severe cases there were additional spastic signs. This form of neurotoxic effect can be reproduced in animals. It is due to a disorder of axonal transport which destroys peripheral and central axons.", "PMID": 456264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12115", "title": "[Pharmacokinetics and thyrotoxicity of the sodium nitroprusside metabolite thiocyanate (author's transl)].", "content": "Thiocyanate (SCN) serum levels were measured in relation to renal function and SCN-induced changes in thyroid function in 17 patients treated with sodium nitroprusside. SCN serum levels rose linearly, dose-dependent, after the distribution phase. If there was creatinine retention the rise was much steeper. Delayed SCN elimination in renal failure, previously shown experimentally, was also demonstrated clinically. Suppression of thyroid function, to a not precisely predictable extent, is likely to occur at a SCN serum level from 18 mg/l upward.", "contents": "[Pharmacokinetics and thyrotoxicity of the sodium nitroprusside metabolite thiocyanate (author's transl)]. Thiocyanate (SCN) serum levels were measured in relation to renal function and SCN-induced changes in thyroid function in 17 patients treated with sodium nitroprusside. SCN serum levels rose linearly, dose-dependent, after the distribution phase. If there was creatinine retention the rise was much steeper. Delayed SCN elimination in renal failure, previously shown experimentally, was also demonstrated clinically. Suppression of thyroid function, to a not precisely predictable extent, is likely to occur at a SCN serum level from 18 mg/l upward.", "PMID": 456265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12116", "title": "[Telephone transmission of ECGs for checking cardiac pacemaker function (author's transl)].", "content": "A single-channel system is described for transmitting by telephone and checking the ECG of patients with implanted pacemakers, and at the same time diagnosing a complex arrhythmias.", "contents": "[Telephone transmission of ECGs for checking cardiac pacemaker function (author's transl)]. A single-channel system is described for transmitting by telephone and checking the ECG of patients with implanted pacemakers, and at the same time diagnosing a complex arrhythmias.", "PMID": 456266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12117", "title": "[Risk of a second malignant neoplasm after successful treatment of a malignant tumour in children (author's transl)].", "content": "One boy, given radiotherapy and cytostatic drugs for a rhabdomyosarcoma died nine years later of acute leukaemia. A girl, who had received radiotherapy for an inoperable suprasellar tumour and also given cytostatic drugs, fell ill seven years later with a glioblastoma. Among a total of 750 children with malignant neoplasm observed by the authors, a permanent cure rate of about 50% is to be expected among about 300 children treated recently. If this rate applies to the entire Federal Republic of Germany, about 1,000 children are likely to be cured annually. In these circumstances it is likely that 80-160 children treated in any one year will develop a second neoplasm or leukaemia 20 years later, most commonly as a late sequela of the treatment.", "contents": "[Risk of a second malignant neoplasm after successful treatment of a malignant tumour in children (author's transl)]. One boy, given radiotherapy and cytostatic drugs for a rhabdomyosarcoma died nine years later of acute leukaemia. A girl, who had received radiotherapy for an inoperable suprasellar tumour and also given cytostatic drugs, fell ill seven years later with a glioblastoma. Among a total of 750 children with malignant neoplasm observed by the authors, a permanent cure rate of about 50% is to be expected among about 300 children treated recently. If this rate applies to the entire Federal Republic of Germany, about 1,000 children are likely to be cured annually. In these circumstances it is likely that 80-160 children treated in any one year will develop a second neoplasm or leukaemia 20 years later, most commonly as a late sequela of the treatment.", "PMID": 456271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12118", "title": "[Absorption and excretion of g-strophanthin after intravenous or sublingual administration (author's transl)].", "content": "Tritiated g-strophanthin was administered to six volunteer patients in a dose of 0.25 mg intravenously and 6.0 mg sublingually 1-3 weeks apart. Radioactivity in plasma and urine was measured afterwards for 48 or 96 hours, respectively. Plasma concentration fell to about a fifth of the maximal concentration within 6 min after intravenous administration, total excretion within three days being about 50%, with a half-time of 11 hours. Measurable plasma concentration after sublingual administration was demonstrable only after 15 min in some and after 2 hours in all the six patients. Radioactivity counts increased up to the 24th hour, in three patients up to the 48th hour. Maximal plasma concentration ranged from 4.7 to 0.7 ng/ml, corresponding to levels reached 15 min or 4 hours, respectively, after intravenous administration. Urinary radioactivity reached its maximum after 24-48 hours and then decreased. Within three days 0.6 and 2.5% of the administered radioactivity was recovered, corresponding to the g-strophanthin doses of 0.072 to 0.3 mg. The findings once again confirm the low and irregular absorption of g-strophanthin when administered sublingually or orally.", "contents": "[Absorption and excretion of g-strophanthin after intravenous or sublingual administration (author's transl)]. Tritiated g-strophanthin was administered to six volunteer patients in a dose of 0.25 mg intravenously and 6.0 mg sublingually 1-3 weeks apart. Radioactivity in plasma and urine was measured afterwards for 48 or 96 hours, respectively. Plasma concentration fell to about a fifth of the maximal concentration within 6 min after intravenous administration, total excretion within three days being about 50%, with a half-time of 11 hours. Measurable plasma concentration after sublingual administration was demonstrable only after 15 min in some and after 2 hours in all the six patients. Radioactivity counts increased up to the 24th hour, in three patients up to the 48th hour. Maximal plasma concentration ranged from 4.7 to 0.7 ng/ml, corresponding to levels reached 15 min or 4 hours, respectively, after intravenous administration. Urinary radioactivity reached its maximum after 24-48 hours and then decreased. Within three days 0.6 and 2.5% of the administered radioactivity was recovered, corresponding to the g-strophanthin doses of 0.072 to 0.3 mg. The findings once again confirm the low and irregular absorption of g-strophanthin when administered sublingually or orally.", "PMID": 456272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12119", "title": "[A new concept in the surgery of chronic pancreatitis (author's transl)].", "content": "There is an obvious advantage to partial duodenopancreatectomy with occlusion of the pancreatic duct by prolamine (a rapidly solidifying aminoacid solution) for the prevention of recurrences, while preserving the stomach and proximal duodenum, in the treatment of severe destruction of the pancreas, localised to the head or generalised. The death rate of partial duodenopancreactectomy has been lowered from 8.5 to 2.3% since using this method. Compared with total duodenopancreatectomy which--according to the authors' earlier results carried a postoperative mortality of 20%--the operative risk has been reduced to a tenth. Taking into account the benign nature of chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, and the extent of the operative operation, on the other, the present death-rate of 2.3% would appear reasonable. Occlusion of the pancreatic duct with prolamine in order to exclude any still present excretory pancreatic function in the residual pancreatic tissue has made all patients pain-free. No early recurrence has been observed.", "contents": "[A new concept in the surgery of chronic pancreatitis (author's transl)]. There is an obvious advantage to partial duodenopancreatectomy with occlusion of the pancreatic duct by prolamine (a rapidly solidifying aminoacid solution) for the prevention of recurrences, while preserving the stomach and proximal duodenum, in the treatment of severe destruction of the pancreas, localised to the head or generalised. The death rate of partial duodenopancreactectomy has been lowered from 8.5 to 2.3% since using this method. Compared with total duodenopancreatectomy which--according to the authors' earlier results carried a postoperative mortality of 20%--the operative risk has been reduced to a tenth. Taking into account the benign nature of chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, and the extent of the operative operation, on the other, the present death-rate of 2.3% would appear reasonable. Occlusion of the pancreatic duct with prolamine in order to exclude any still present excretory pancreatic function in the residual pancreatic tissue has made all patients pain-free. No early recurrence has been observed.", "PMID": 456273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12120", "title": "[Treatment of tachy-arrhythmias by implanted pacemaker (author's transl)].", "content": "A recently developed antitachycardic pacemaker was implanted into seven patients with drug-resistant tachycardias. The implantation was made after diagnosis of a tachy-arrhythmia by invasive techniques and after experimental determination of the effective site, optimal mode and effective frequency of stimulation, as well as the regulation and duration of impulse release. Thus the pacemakers were individually adapted to the particular arrhythmia. High-frequency stimulation and competitive stimulation were used as stimulation modes. The systems work automatically, triggered either by the ECG, the patient or externally. The frequency of attacks was significantly reduced in five patients, the duration of attacks in all.", "contents": "[Treatment of tachy-arrhythmias by implanted pacemaker (author's transl)]. A recently developed antitachycardic pacemaker was implanted into seven patients with drug-resistant tachycardias. The implantation was made after diagnosis of a tachy-arrhythmia by invasive techniques and after experimental determination of the effective site, optimal mode and effective frequency of stimulation, as well as the regulation and duration of impulse release. Thus the pacemakers were individually adapted to the particular arrhythmia. High-frequency stimulation and competitive stimulation were used as stimulation modes. The systems work automatically, triggered either by the ECG, the patient or externally. The frequency of attacks was significantly reduced in five patients, the duration of attacks in all.", "PMID": 456274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12121", "title": "[Intracutaneous desensitization in a case of insulin allergy with anaphylactic shock (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 72-year-old woman with keto-acidaemia due to out-of-control diabetes, anaphylactic reaction occurred immediately after intravenous administration of 8 units of insulin. Extensive intracutaneous testing with highly purified insulins, including sheep and human insulin, revealed an allergy of the immediate type against the insulin molecule itself. Desensitization with subcutaneous insulin administration failed. Intracutaneous insulin injection three hours apart, starting at a dilution of 1:100, produced good subcutaneous tolerance of insulin within seven days.", "contents": "[Intracutaneous desensitization in a case of insulin allergy with anaphylactic shock (author's transl)]. In a 72-year-old woman with keto-acidaemia due to out-of-control diabetes, anaphylactic reaction occurred immediately after intravenous administration of 8 units of insulin. Extensive intracutaneous testing with highly purified insulins, including sheep and human insulin, revealed an allergy of the immediate type against the insulin molecule itself. Desensitization with subcutaneous insulin administration failed. Intracutaneous insulin injection three hours apart, starting at a dilution of 1:100, produced good subcutaneous tolerance of insulin within seven days.", "PMID": 456275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12122", "title": "[Metastasising squamous-cell carcinoma of the skin in a ten-year-old girl].", "content": "Because of recurrent paronychia of the right thumb \"granulation\" tissue was removed from the nail-bed of a ten-year-old girl. Histological examination revealed a cornified squamous-cell carcinoma. About five months later a lymph-node metastasis was found in the right axilla. After radical dissection of the axillary region further lymph-node metastases were found, as well as a lymphangitic carcinosis with tumour infiltration in the veins. Despite telecobalt radiation there were recurrent retastases which could no longer be removed by operation. Two years after the diagnosis the girl died. Necrospy revealed diffuse tumour infiltration of the soft tissue of the axilla, upper arm, shoulder, neck and thoracic wall on the right, including the breast tissue, with thoracic para-aortic-abdominal and left-sided axillary lymph-node metastases, and lung and pleural metastases bilaterally.", "contents": "[Metastasising squamous-cell carcinoma of the skin in a ten-year-old girl]. Because of recurrent paronychia of the right thumb \"granulation\" tissue was removed from the nail-bed of a ten-year-old girl. Histological examination revealed a cornified squamous-cell carcinoma. About five months later a lymph-node metastasis was found in the right axilla. After radical dissection of the axillary region further lymph-node metastases were found, as well as a lymphangitic carcinosis with tumour infiltration in the veins. Despite telecobalt radiation there were recurrent retastases which could no longer be removed by operation. Two years after the diagnosis the girl died. Necrospy revealed diffuse tumour infiltration of the soft tissue of the axilla, upper arm, shoulder, neck and thoracic wall on the right, including the breast tissue, with thoracic para-aortic-abdominal and left-sided axillary lymph-node metastases, and lung and pleural metastases bilaterally.", "PMID": 456281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12123", "title": "[Instrumental perforation of the intrathoracic oesophagus (author's transl)].", "content": "Due to a wide iatrogenic perforation of the oesophagus situated at the level of the carina a 90-year-old woman was admitted to hospital. Prompt recognition and immediate surgery were successful. The operation consisted of a right-sided thoracotomy, wide mediastinotomy, over-sewing of the perforation and pleural drainage. Oesophagostomy and gastrostomy were performed to relieve the oesophagus. A tube was inserted into the duodenum for artificial feeding. This method has been successful in previous cases.", "contents": "[Instrumental perforation of the intrathoracic oesophagus (author's transl)]. Due to a wide iatrogenic perforation of the oesophagus situated at the level of the carina a 90-year-old woman was admitted to hospital. Prompt recognition and immediate surgery were successful. The operation consisted of a right-sided thoracotomy, wide mediastinotomy, over-sewing of the perforation and pleural drainage. Oesophagostomy and gastrostomy were performed to relieve the oesophagus. A tube was inserted into the duodenum for artificial feeding. This method has been successful in previous cases.", "PMID": 456282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12124", "title": "[Medicine in the contemporary world].", "content": "The author begins with the premise that, contrary to what has been attained to date, greater order and higher justice are both possible and desirable in medical care and, therefore, that it is worthwhile to consider the shortcomings of the past and present and the improvements that can be carried out in the future. He analyzes the various meanings given to the \"health-sickness\" complex and such current social phenomena as the rapid spread of the view that health care is a social right, the charge against medical practice and training of being dominated by \"simplistic empiricism\" and of relegating the importance of of the critical faculty, and widespread specialization. He expands on the accessibility of medical care to broad segments on the population, the delegation in modern society of the responsibility for health care to the institutional medical apparatus, and the contradictions generated by overemphasis on technology and specialization and by the pressure of demands from the community. He contends that the dilemma today es twofold: how to offer the entire population satisfactory medical services through comprehensive system consistent with national financial capabilities, and what these services should be so that their social function is based on sound scientific foundations. In the closing section of the article, the author makes several points about the future, with emphasis on humanizing medicine and of basic care services of the population--that is, on shifting medical practice toward the general community.", "contents": "[Medicine in the contemporary world]. The author begins with the premise that, contrary to what has been attained to date, greater order and higher justice are both possible and desirable in medical care and, therefore, that it is worthwhile to consider the shortcomings of the past and present and the improvements that can be carried out in the future. He analyzes the various meanings given to the \"health-sickness\" complex and such current social phenomena as the rapid spread of the view that health care is a social right, the charge against medical practice and training of being dominated by \"simplistic empiricism\" and of relegating the importance of of the critical faculty, and widespread specialization. He expands on the accessibility of medical care to broad segments on the population, the delegation in modern society of the responsibility for health care to the institutional medical apparatus, and the contradictions generated by overemphasis on technology and specialization and by the pressure of demands from the community. He contends that the dilemma today es twofold: how to offer the entire population satisfactory medical services through comprehensive system consistent with national financial capabilities, and what these services should be so that their social function is based on sound scientific foundations. In the closing section of the article, the author makes several points about the future, with emphasis on humanizing medicine and of basic care services of the population--that is, on shifting medical practice toward the general community.", "PMID": 456304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12125", "title": "[Design of a course in physiology for medical training].", "content": "This article describes a course in general physiology and neurophysiology being offered at the School of Medicine of the Catholic University in Chile since 1971. The course was designed to provide the student skills in the planning, performance, and analysis of experimental problems. An account is given of the changes made in the course in response to annual evaluations over seven years. The procedures for grading student progress in developing critical judgment, handling information, and solving problems are analyzed. The authors are of the view that a course of this kind helps improve the ability to judge problems beyond the course curriculum. The describe the advantage of such courses for the training of physicians and recommend that activities that could be continued throughout medical training be designed and evaluated to stimulate the development of the students' critical faculties.", "contents": "[Design of a course in physiology for medical training]. This article describes a course in general physiology and neurophysiology being offered at the School of Medicine of the Catholic University in Chile since 1971. The course was designed to provide the student skills in the planning, performance, and analysis of experimental problems. An account is given of the changes made in the course in response to annual evaluations over seven years. The procedures for grading student progress in developing critical judgment, handling information, and solving problems are analyzed. The authors are of the view that a course of this kind helps improve the ability to judge problems beyond the course curriculum. The describe the advantage of such courses for the training of physicians and recommend that activities that could be continued throughout medical training be designed and evaluated to stimulate the development of the students' critical faculties.", "PMID": 456305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12126", "title": "[Education and training of the general physician].", "content": "The authors of this paper, part of which was presented at the Seventh Pan American Conference on Medical Education (New Orleans, October 1978), recognize that training programs for general physicians should relate to the particular socioeconomic conditions and characteristics of the individual country and region. They propose that the general physician in developing countries be prepared in graduate courses to provide primary care, in order to give service immediately after graduation and because opportunities elsewhere for recent graduates are limited. After outlining new curriculum proposals for the general physicians, they argue against the establishment of departments of family medicine in Latin American medical schools. It is suggested that the general physician's training take place in outpatient clinics, health centers, and community and teaching hospitals, to make possible the integration of the medical education and medical care. Until such time when integration is achieved, the teaching hospital should afford medical education and care on a small scale, offering outpatient general clinics, nonspecialized services, and community health activities.", "contents": "[Education and training of the general physician]. The authors of this paper, part of which was presented at the Seventh Pan American Conference on Medical Education (New Orleans, October 1978), recognize that training programs for general physicians should relate to the particular socioeconomic conditions and characteristics of the individual country and region. They propose that the general physician in developing countries be prepared in graduate courses to provide primary care, in order to give service immediately after graduation and because opportunities elsewhere for recent graduates are limited. After outlining new curriculum proposals for the general physicians, they argue against the establishment of departments of family medicine in Latin American medical schools. It is suggested that the general physician's training take place in outpatient clinics, health centers, and community and teaching hospitals, to make possible the integration of the medical education and medical care. Until such time when integration is achieved, the teaching hospital should afford medical education and care on a small scale, offering outpatient general clinics, nonspecialized services, and community health activities.", "PMID": 456306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12127", "title": "[Manpower training at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology].", "content": "The Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA) of the University of Chile was established in 1976. Its functions are, among others, to study the country's nutritional problems, conduct research into measures for improving the nutritional status of the community, and train researchers and professionals, technical, and auxiliary staff in the nutrition field. Since 1977 the Institute has operated as an associated center of the United Nations University (UNU) in the area of human needs and, as such, carries out research in food and nutrition problems, provides training and education to UNU fellows, collaborates in the establishment of a worldwide network of institutions interested in the problem of world hunger, and advises UNU on the conduct of occupational training and research programs. This article refers more specifically to the teaching functions of INTA and describes its undergraduate and graduate activities and pedagogical training for nutrition instructors.", "contents": "[Manpower training at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology]. The Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA) of the University of Chile was established in 1976. Its functions are, among others, to study the country's nutritional problems, conduct research into measures for improving the nutritional status of the community, and train researchers and professionals, technical, and auxiliary staff in the nutrition field. Since 1977 the Institute has operated as an associated center of the United Nations University (UNU) in the area of human needs and, as such, carries out research in food and nutrition problems, provides training and education to UNU fellows, collaborates in the establishment of a worldwide network of institutions interested in the problem of world hunger, and advises UNU on the conduct of occupational training and research programs. This article refers more specifically to the teaching functions of INTA and describes its undergraduate and graduate activities and pedagogical training for nutrition instructors.", "PMID": 456307} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12128", "title": "[Ultrasonic diagnosis of abdominal diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "Ultrasonic examination is a modern method used to visualize intraabdominalorgans and pathological processes affecting their organisation. This method of examination is safe and gentle as regards the patient and suitable for estimation of extraluminar pathological conditions. The report concerns experiences gained with abdominal ultrasonography effected with Echoview VI Picker (Transducer 2,25 MHz, diameter 13 mm) at the department of internal medicine of the University Policlinic in Prague in 1975--1977. There was a total of 400 examinations of the abdominal cavity effected in 358 subjects. The principal indications for examination included a clinical finding or suspicion of a disease affecting the pancreas (180X), liver (79X), spleen (30X), gall-bladder (24X), kidney (21X), or undefined palpation findings in the abdomen (74X). In 41,75% of cases sonography confirmed the abdominal finding, in 44,75% of cases the finding was not confirmed, in 13,5% of cases the finding could not be estimated dependably. As the frequency of positive findings achieved by ultrasonic examination in pancreatic pseudocysts is high, we effect sonography in the instance of suspection of this affection prior to the planned endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography as orientation examination.", "contents": "[Ultrasonic diagnosis of abdominal diseases (author's transl)]. Ultrasonic examination is a modern method used to visualize intraabdominalorgans and pathological processes affecting their organisation. This method of examination is safe and gentle as regards the patient and suitable for estimation of extraluminar pathological conditions. The report concerns experiences gained with abdominal ultrasonography effected with Echoview VI Picker (Transducer 2,25 MHz, diameter 13 mm) at the department of internal medicine of the University Policlinic in Prague in 1975--1977. There was a total of 400 examinations of the abdominal cavity effected in 358 subjects. The principal indications for examination included a clinical finding or suspicion of a disease affecting the pancreas (180X), liver (79X), spleen (30X), gall-bladder (24X), kidney (21X), or undefined palpation findings in the abdomen (74X). In 41,75% of cases sonography confirmed the abdominal finding, in 44,75% of cases the finding was not confirmed, in 13,5% of cases the finding could not be estimated dependably. As the frequency of positive findings achieved by ultrasonic examination in pancreatic pseudocysts is high, we effect sonography in the instance of suspection of this affection prior to the planned endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography as orientation examination.", "PMID": 456310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12129", "title": "[Prepyloric, cystic adenomatous hamartia in a newborn infant. Contribution to the morphogenesis of gastric duplications (author's transl)].", "content": "The so-called adenomyomas of the stomach in the antric region can often be seen. However, cystic alterations including duplications are a rarity. The author reports on a case of a duplication of the stomach in connection with a so-called adenomyoma of the pyloric channel. On the basis of a case report he describes morphogenesis, clinical aspects, complications and therapy with due consideration of the literature.", "contents": "[Prepyloric, cystic adenomatous hamartia in a newborn infant. Contribution to the morphogenesis of gastric duplications (author's transl)]. The so-called adenomyomas of the stomach in the antric region can often be seen. However, cystic alterations including duplications are a rarity. The author reports on a case of a duplication of the stomach in connection with a so-called adenomyoma of the pyloric channel. On the basis of a case report he describes morphogenesis, clinical aspects, complications and therapy with due consideration of the literature.", "PMID": 456312} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12130", "title": "[X-ray diagnosis and the clinical aspects after pancreatectomy].", "content": "11 patients (three women) were examined 7 month to 12 years after total pancreatectomy. There were found differences of--34% to +23% between bodyweight and ideaweight. Three patients with a bodyweight less than 75% of the idealweight died, steatorrhea (8--19 g/die), bloodsugar oscillation in the 24 h-profile (40--820 mg%) and an intrinsic-factor-non-responsive vitamin B12-malabsorption without megaloblastic anemia. The roentgenexamination permitted a classification of the upper gastrointestinaltract in a type similar to B II or B I resection and a type with Y- Roux anastomosis for bilarydrainage.", "contents": "[X-ray diagnosis and the clinical aspects after pancreatectomy]. 11 patients (three women) were examined 7 month to 12 years after total pancreatectomy. There were found differences of--34% to +23% between bodyweight and ideaweight. Three patients with a bodyweight less than 75% of the idealweight died, steatorrhea (8--19 g/die), bloodsugar oscillation in the 24 h-profile (40--820 mg%) and an intrinsic-factor-non-responsive vitamin B12-malabsorption without megaloblastic anemia. The roentgenexamination permitted a classification of the upper gastrointestinaltract in a type similar to B II or B I resection and a type with Y- Roux anastomosis for bilarydrainage.", "PMID": 456313} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12131", "title": "Evidence favoring the existence of two high molecular weight precursor forms of dog kidney renin.", "content": "Extraction of canine renal cortical tissue at pH 7.4 in the presence of the protease inhibitors diisopropylfluorophosphate (0.2 mM), Na2EDTA (7.8 mM), sodium tetrathionate (7.8 mM). N-ethyl maleimide (7.8 mM) yielded renin activity in two high molecular weight (HMW) forms, 65,000 (65K) and 55,000 (55K). Serial gel filtration chromatography of such extracts stored at 4 C showed that over the course of 2 days, activity at both 65,000 and 55,000 decreased almost entirely, while low molecular weight (LMW) activity at 41,000 (41K), not present immediately after extraction, had appeared in the extracts, The renin activity of the extract doubled over the first 24 h of storage and remained stable over the next 24 h. The activity of all three renin forms was comparably inhibited by antirenin antibodies. Our results support the concept that HMW renin(s) is a biological precursor of 41K renin. The new finding of a renin form intermediate in apparent molecular weight between 65K and 41K renin suggests that proteolytic processing of HMW to LMW renin may involve more than one step. The fact that in vitro conversion of HMW to LMW renin will occur under these conditions but takes place slowly may provide a technique for the future study of the precise manner in which HMW is converted to LMW renin.", "contents": "Evidence favoring the existence of two high molecular weight precursor forms of dog kidney renin. Extraction of canine renal cortical tissue at pH 7.4 in the presence of the protease inhibitors diisopropylfluorophosphate (0.2 mM), Na2EDTA (7.8 mM), sodium tetrathionate (7.8 mM). N-ethyl maleimide (7.8 mM) yielded renin activity in two high molecular weight (HMW) forms, 65,000 (65K) and 55,000 (55K). Serial gel filtration chromatography of such extracts stored at 4 C showed that over the course of 2 days, activity at both 65,000 and 55,000 decreased almost entirely, while low molecular weight (LMW) activity at 41,000 (41K), not present immediately after extraction, had appeared in the extracts, The renin activity of the extract doubled over the first 24 h of storage and remained stable over the next 24 h. The activity of all three renin forms was comparably inhibited by antirenin antibodies. Our results support the concept that HMW renin(s) is a biological precursor of 41K renin. The new finding of a renin form intermediate in apparent molecular weight between 65K and 41K renin suggests that proteolytic processing of HMW to LMW renin may involve more than one step. The fact that in vitro conversion of HMW to LMW renin will occur under these conditions but takes place slowly may provide a technique for the future study of the precise manner in which HMW is converted to LMW renin.", "PMID": 456314} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12132", "title": "Cholinergic involvement in osmotic control of vasopressin release by the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system.", "content": "A nicotinic-cholinergic receptor appears to mediate osmotic stimulation of vasopressin (VP) release by the hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal explant. Nicotinic blocking agents, hexamethonium, tetraethylammonium chloride, and trimethaphan, blocked VP release in response to the addition of sufficient NaCl to yield a 10 mosm/kg H2O increase in culture medium osmolality. Atropine at a similar molar concentration was ineffective in blocking VP release in response to the same osmotic stimulus. Tetraethylammonium chloride and trimethaphan also blocked acetylcholine-stimulated VP release. These findings support the hypothesis that the osmoreceptive element responsible for controlling VP release resides in a separate cell and communicates with the VP cell by way of a nicotiniccholinergic receptor.", "contents": "Cholinergic involvement in osmotic control of vasopressin release by the organ-cultured rat hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system. A nicotinic-cholinergic receptor appears to mediate osmotic stimulation of vasopressin (VP) release by the hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal explant. Nicotinic blocking agents, hexamethonium, tetraethylammonium chloride, and trimethaphan, blocked VP release in response to the addition of sufficient NaCl to yield a 10 mosm/kg H2O increase in culture medium osmolality. Atropine at a similar molar concentration was ineffective in blocking VP release in response to the same osmotic stimulus. Tetraethylammonium chloride and trimethaphan also blocked acetylcholine-stimulated VP release. These findings support the hypothesis that the osmoreceptive element responsible for controlling VP release resides in a separate cell and communicates with the VP cell by way of a nicotiniccholinergic receptor.", "PMID": 456315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12133", "title": "Bioassay and radioimmunoassay of serum luteinizing hormone in the male rat.", "content": "Measurements of immunoactive and bioactive serum LH in the rat were performed after optimization of both RIA and rat interstitial cell-testosterone (RICT) assay to measure the low circulating LH levels of intact male rats. The effective sensitivity of the RIA was increased 3- to 5-fold to 6.2 or 4.7 ng RP1/ml by extraction of 1--1.5 ml serum, respectively. Serum LH levels of adult male rats were 48.5 +/- 16.3 ng RP-1/ml (n = 50), became undetectable after hypophysectomy, and were suppressed 50% after estrogen treatment. For RICT assay of serum rat LH, sensitivity was increased 5-fold by reduction of the incubation volume to 0.35 ml containing 2--4 x 10(6) interstitial cells/tube, with a detection limit of 3 ng RP-1 or 0.1 ng pure LH. The within-assay coefficient of variation for measurement of a pool of control male rat serum (126 +/- 19l6 ng RP-1) WAS +/- 12.5% and the between-assay variation was +/- 15%. Bioactive serum LH levels in adult male rats were 124.8 +/- 32.3 ng RP-1/ml or 2.74 +/- 0.71 ng rat LH/ml, with biopotency to immunopotency (B:I) ratios of 2.8 +/- 0.2 and 1.1 +/- 0.1, respectively, that were unchanged during elevations of serum LH by LHRH administration. Pituitary LH content was 726 +/- 183 micrograms RP-1 or 16.4 micrograms rat LH/gland, with B:I ratios of 2.3 +/- 0.4 and 1.0 +/- 0.2, respectively. The difference between B:I ratios in assays employing pure rat LH and assays using the RP-1 preparation was attributable to the presence of alpha-subunit and biologically inactive material in the RP-1 standard. Precise measurements of immunoactive and bioactive rat LH in male rat plasma can not be performed by these modified RICT and RIA procedures. The sensitive RICT assay can also be applied to the measurement of low levels of LH in the serum of primates and other species.", "contents": "Bioassay and radioimmunoassay of serum luteinizing hormone in the male rat. Measurements of immunoactive and bioactive serum LH in the rat were performed after optimization of both RIA and rat interstitial cell-testosterone (RICT) assay to measure the low circulating LH levels of intact male rats. The effective sensitivity of the RIA was increased 3- to 5-fold to 6.2 or 4.7 ng RP1/ml by extraction of 1--1.5 ml serum, respectively. Serum LH levels of adult male rats were 48.5 +/- 16.3 ng RP-1/ml (n = 50), became undetectable after hypophysectomy, and were suppressed 50% after estrogen treatment. For RICT assay of serum rat LH, sensitivity was increased 5-fold by reduction of the incubation volume to 0.35 ml containing 2--4 x 10(6) interstitial cells/tube, with a detection limit of 3 ng RP-1 or 0.1 ng pure LH. The within-assay coefficient of variation for measurement of a pool of control male rat serum (126 +/- 19l6 ng RP-1) WAS +/- 12.5% and the between-assay variation was +/- 15%. Bioactive serum LH levels in adult male rats were 124.8 +/- 32.3 ng RP-1/ml or 2.74 +/- 0.71 ng rat LH/ml, with biopotency to immunopotency (B:I) ratios of 2.8 +/- 0.2 and 1.1 +/- 0.1, respectively, that were unchanged during elevations of serum LH by LHRH administration. Pituitary LH content was 726 +/- 183 micrograms RP-1 or 16.4 micrograms rat LH/gland, with B:I ratios of 2.3 +/- 0.4 and 1.0 +/- 0.2, respectively. The difference between B:I ratios in assays employing pure rat LH and assays using the RP-1 preparation was attributable to the presence of alpha-subunit and biologically inactive material in the RP-1 standard. Precise measurements of immunoactive and bioactive rat LH in male rat plasma can not be performed by these modified RICT and RIA procedures. The sensitive RICT assay can also be applied to the measurement of low levels of LH in the serum of primates and other species.", "PMID": 456316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12134", "title": "Ovarian responses of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin- and human chorionic gondotropin-primed rats: desensitizing, luteolytic, and ovulatory effects of a single dose of human chorionic gonadotropin.", "content": "We conducted a study to determine the morphological appearance and functional responsiveness of ovarian tissues after administration of hCG to 28-day-old rats primed 65 h earlier with PMS gonadotropin (PMSG) and after administration of a second dose of hCG 5 days later, i.e. to 33-day-old rats containing heavily luteinized ovaries. Sixty-five hours after the administration of 50 IU PMSG sc to 25-day-old rats, ovaries already contained an abundance of luteinized follicles and an adenylyl cyclase (AC) system that was responsive to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. The administration of 50 IU hCG sc at this time initially resulted in a loss of LH-responsive ovarian AC. Within 4 days of the hCG injection, the ovaries of the now 32-day-old rats were heavily luteinized, and ovarian AC was highly responsive to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. The administration of a single sc dose of 200 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSC- and hCG-primed rats with luteinized ovaries resulted in a rapid desensitization of the ovarian AC to LH and a drop in serum progesterone levels, During the subsequent 7 days, serum progesterone levels continued to decline, while total ovarian AC reacquired responsiveness to LH by days 4--5 after the densensitizing dose of hCG. Dissection of ovarian components revealed, however, that the AC system of the corpora lutea originally present at the time of the second hCG injection remained permanently refractory to LH and that the AC in corpora lutea newly formed from freshly ovulated follicles exhibited a significant responsiveness to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. However, these new corpora lutea were not fully active, since serum progesterone never rose. Subcutaneous administration of 50 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSG- and hCG-primed rats also promoted a rapid loss of AC responsiveness to LH. This lower concentration of hCG was not sufficient to promote follicular development or ovulation, and the ovarian AC remained refractory to LH for at least 7 days. Intravenous administration of 75 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSG- and hCG-primed rats similarly promoted a rapid and permanent loss of luteal AC responsiveness to LH; again, follicles did not mature to a preovulatory state and, in fact, appeared to undergo atresia rather than ovulation. These results indicate that in heavily luteinized ovaries 1) hCG promotes desensitization of rat luteal AC to LH, 2) Desensitization of AC to LH stimulation in corpora lutea is permanent and irreversible, and 3) only under conditions where follicles mature and ovulate and new corpora lutea are formed does total ovarian AC reacqure responsiveness during the subsequent week.", "contents": "Ovarian responses of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin- and human chorionic gondotropin-primed rats: desensitizing, luteolytic, and ovulatory effects of a single dose of human chorionic gonadotropin. We conducted a study to determine the morphological appearance and functional responsiveness of ovarian tissues after administration of hCG to 28-day-old rats primed 65 h earlier with PMS gonadotropin (PMSG) and after administration of a second dose of hCG 5 days later, i.e. to 33-day-old rats containing heavily luteinized ovaries. Sixty-five hours after the administration of 50 IU PMSG sc to 25-day-old rats, ovaries already contained an abundance of luteinized follicles and an adenylyl cyclase (AC) system that was responsive to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. The administration of 50 IU hCG sc at this time initially resulted in a loss of LH-responsive ovarian AC. Within 4 days of the hCG injection, the ovaries of the now 32-day-old rats were heavily luteinized, and ovarian AC was highly responsive to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. The administration of a single sc dose of 200 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSC- and hCG-primed rats with luteinized ovaries resulted in a rapid desensitization of the ovarian AC to LH and a drop in serum progesterone levels, During the subsequent 7 days, serum progesterone levels continued to decline, while total ovarian AC reacquired responsiveness to LH by days 4--5 after the densensitizing dose of hCG. Dissection of ovarian components revealed, however, that the AC system of the corpora lutea originally present at the time of the second hCG injection remained permanently refractory to LH and that the AC in corpora lutea newly formed from freshly ovulated follicles exhibited a significant responsiveness to LH, epinephrine, and NaF. However, these new corpora lutea were not fully active, since serum progesterone never rose. Subcutaneous administration of 50 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSG- and hCG-primed rats also promoted a rapid loss of AC responsiveness to LH. This lower concentration of hCG was not sufficient to promote follicular development or ovulation, and the ovarian AC remained refractory to LH for at least 7 days. Intravenous administration of 75 IU hCG to 33-day-old PMSG- and hCG-primed rats similarly promoted a rapid and permanent loss of luteal AC responsiveness to LH; again, follicles did not mature to a preovulatory state and, in fact, appeared to undergo atresia rather than ovulation. These results indicate that in heavily luteinized ovaries 1) hCG promotes desensitization of rat luteal AC to LH, 2) Desensitization of AC to LH stimulation in corpora lutea is permanent and irreversible, and 3) only under conditions where follicles mature and ovulate and new corpora lutea are formed does total ovarian AC reacqure responsiveness during the subsequent week.", "PMID": 456322} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12135", "title": "Acute effects of hypothalamic ablation on plasma thyrotropin and prolactin concentrations in the suckling rat: evidence that early postnatal pituitary-thyroid regulation is independent of hypothalamic control.", "content": "Hypothalamic ablation was performed at various periods postnatally in animals previously administered propylthiouracil to raise plasma TSH concentrations. There was no significant change in plasma Tsh up to 8 h after hypothalamic ablation in pups 1--4 days old, whereas hypophysectomy of such pups produced a 60% fall in plasma TSH within 4 h. By the 5th postnatal day, hypothalamic ablation produced a 30% fall in plasma TSH within 4 h (P less than 0.05). By the 12th postnatal day and thereafter, the fall in plasma TSH after hypothalamic ablation was not significantly different from that seen in adults, except in 30-day-old rats in which there was a lesser effect of hypothalamic ablation on plasma TSH (P less than 0.01 in comparison to 23-day-old and adult groups). The greatest effect of hypothalamic ablation on plasma TSH was in 45-day-old animals (P less than 0.01 in comparison to adults). No significant change was produced in plasma PRL within 4 h postoperatively at any age. Our data indicate that regulation of TSH secretion in the rat is independent of hypothalamic control until after the 5th postnatal day and is fully developed by day 12. This corresponds temporally with the postnatal rise of plasma TSH, T4, and T3 and hypothalamic TRH to adult concentrations and indicates maturation of the hypothalamic regulation of TSH secretion.", "contents": "Acute effects of hypothalamic ablation on plasma thyrotropin and prolactin concentrations in the suckling rat: evidence that early postnatal pituitary-thyroid regulation is independent of hypothalamic control. Hypothalamic ablation was performed at various periods postnatally in animals previously administered propylthiouracil to raise plasma TSH concentrations. There was no significant change in plasma Tsh up to 8 h after hypothalamic ablation in pups 1--4 days old, whereas hypophysectomy of such pups produced a 60% fall in plasma TSH within 4 h. By the 5th postnatal day, hypothalamic ablation produced a 30% fall in plasma TSH within 4 h (P less than 0.05). By the 12th postnatal day and thereafter, the fall in plasma TSH after hypothalamic ablation was not significantly different from that seen in adults, except in 30-day-old rats in which there was a lesser effect of hypothalamic ablation on plasma TSH (P less than 0.01 in comparison to 23-day-old and adult groups). The greatest effect of hypothalamic ablation on plasma TSH was in 45-day-old animals (P less than 0.01 in comparison to adults). No significant change was produced in plasma PRL within 4 h postoperatively at any age. Our data indicate that regulation of TSH secretion in the rat is independent of hypothalamic control until after the 5th postnatal day and is fully developed by day 12. This corresponds temporally with the postnatal rise of plasma TSH, T4, and T3 and hypothalamic TRH to adult concentrations and indicates maturation of the hypothalamic regulation of TSH secretion.", "PMID": 456325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12136", "title": "Serum melanocyte-stimulating hormone levels and pituitary melanocyte-stimulating hormone content during pseudopregnancy in the rat.", "content": "Pseudopregnancy (PSP) was induced in rats by vaginal stimulation and the levels of MSH in serum and pituitary were examined. One hour after vaginal stimulation, the serum MSH level was increased, and a cyclical variation was observed by the second day of PSP. There were two surges of about 50 pg/ml, one in the morning and the other at night. On the sixth day of PSP, the pattern of serum levels still showed two peaks, but while the nocturnal peak remained at 50 pg/ml, the diurnal value was halved. The pituitary MSH content also underwent cyclical variations; the lowest levels coincided with the peak levels in serum. These observations raise the possibility that MSH is involved in PSP.", "contents": "Serum melanocyte-stimulating hormone levels and pituitary melanocyte-stimulating hormone content during pseudopregnancy in the rat. Pseudopregnancy (PSP) was induced in rats by vaginal stimulation and the levels of MSH in serum and pituitary were examined. One hour after vaginal stimulation, the serum MSH level was increased, and a cyclical variation was observed by the second day of PSP. There were two surges of about 50 pg/ml, one in the morning and the other at night. On the sixth day of PSP, the pattern of serum levels still showed two peaks, but while the nocturnal peak remained at 50 pg/ml, the diurnal value was halved. The pituitary MSH content also underwent cyclical variations; the lowest levels coincided with the peak levels in serum. These observations raise the possibility that MSH is involved in PSP.", "PMID": 456328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12137", "title": "Involvement of adenohypophysial dopamine in the regulation of prolactin release during suckling.", "content": "Dopamine (DA) was measured in the anterior lobe of the pituitary and median eminence from lactating rats. The effect of pup separation and suckling was studied in order to correlate changes in DA levels with changes in serum PRL. In lactating rats separated from their pups, low levels of circulating PRL were found at 2,4, and 8 h. DA levels in the median eminence showed a decline at 2h; at 4 and 8 h of separation, a significant increase was observed. In the pars distalis, the concentration of DA increased with the length of the nonsuckling interval. Suckling induced a rapid rise in serum PRL levels in rats that were separated from their pups 4 h earlier. Under these conditions, a significant decrease in DA levels in the median eminence and pars distalis was observed as early as 5 min after the onset of suckling; at 30 min, the DA levels were still low. In the situations studied (suckling and pup separation), a negative correlation between serum PRL and DA levels in both the median eminence and pars distalis was always found.", "contents": "Involvement of adenohypophysial dopamine in the regulation of prolactin release during suckling. Dopamine (DA) was measured in the anterior lobe of the pituitary and median eminence from lactating rats. The effect of pup separation and suckling was studied in order to correlate changes in DA levels with changes in serum PRL. In lactating rats separated from their pups, low levels of circulating PRL were found at 2,4, and 8 h. DA levels in the median eminence showed a decline at 2h; at 4 and 8 h of separation, a significant increase was observed. In the pars distalis, the concentration of DA increased with the length of the nonsuckling interval. Suckling induced a rapid rise in serum PRL levels in rats that were separated from their pups 4 h earlier. Under these conditions, a significant decrease in DA levels in the median eminence and pars distalis was observed as early as 5 min after the onset of suckling; at 30 min, the DA levels were still low. In the situations studied (suckling and pup separation), a negative correlation between serum PRL and DA levels in both the median eminence and pars distalis was always found.", "PMID": 456329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12138", "title": "Focal cerebellar hyperthermia: effects on cerebral paroxysmal afterdischarges.", "content": "Small area hyperthermia is used to selectively increase cerebellar activity, and, as shown by electroencephalographic tracings of sensorimotor area, focal cerebellar hyperthermia with temperatures limited between 39.5 degrees and 41 degrees C effectively reduces the duration of electrically induced afterdischarges. Additional observations on paroxysms induced in the caudate nucleus which involve the sensorimotor area indicate that these also show shortened durations during focal cerebellar hyperthermia. A comparison of effects on these two forebrain structures is given and some similarities are noted between these results and those reported from previous studies in which electrical stimuli were applied directly to the cerebellar cortex.", "contents": "Focal cerebellar hyperthermia: effects on cerebral paroxysmal afterdischarges. Small area hyperthermia is used to selectively increase cerebellar activity, and, as shown by electroencephalographic tracings of sensorimotor area, focal cerebellar hyperthermia with temperatures limited between 39.5 degrees and 41 degrees C effectively reduces the duration of electrically induced afterdischarges. Additional observations on paroxysms induced in the caudate nucleus which involve the sensorimotor area indicate that these also show shortened durations during focal cerebellar hyperthermia. A comparison of effects on these two forebrain structures is given and some similarities are noted between these results and those reported from previous studies in which electrical stimuli were applied directly to the cerebellar cortex.", "PMID": 456332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12139", "title": "An epilepsy workshop for professionals.", "content": "This experimental study evaluated the impact of an epilepsy workshop format designed for community professionals who may be involved in the treatment plan and follow-up of patients. The goals of the workshop were to increase the professional's knowledge and comfort in the presence of epilepsy and to effect better delivery of services to patients. To achieve this, a didactic approach to learning was modified to include patient contact and participant involvement in the learning process. A pre- and posttest experimental design was utilized. Those who attended the workshop improved significantly more than the two control groups in their knowledge of and comfort with epilepsy. Following the workshop, there was a marked increase in the referral of school children for possible neurological problems by teachers who had attended. There was a subsequent improvement in the delivery of health care services to such children in this county.", "contents": "An epilepsy workshop for professionals. This experimental study evaluated the impact of an epilepsy workshop format designed for community professionals who may be involved in the treatment plan and follow-up of patients. The goals of the workshop were to increase the professional's knowledge and comfort in the presence of epilepsy and to effect better delivery of services to patients. To achieve this, a didactic approach to learning was modified to include patient contact and participant involvement in the learning process. A pre- and posttest experimental design was utilized. Those who attended the workshop improved significantly more than the two control groups in their knowledge of and comfort with epilepsy. Following the workshop, there was a marked increase in the referral of school children for possible neurological problems by teachers who had attended. There was a subsequent improvement in the delivery of health care services to such children in this county.", "PMID": 456333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12140", "title": "Neurophysiological and neurochemical studies on the action of the anticonvulsant gamma-hydroxy, gamma-ethyl, gamma-phenyl-butyramide.", "content": "The effect of gamma-hydroxy, gamma-ethyl, gamma-phenyl-butyramide (HEPB) on afterdischarges produced by hippocampal stimulation in cats was studied. HEPB notably diminished the duration of afterdischarges and in some cats blocked their propagation into the substantia nigra and the amygdala. HEPB treatment also antagonized the enhancement of afterdischarge duration produced by subconvulsive doses of bicuculline, whereas treatment with diphenylhydantoin strongly potentiated this effect of bicuculline. The intracisternal injection of HEPB or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in mice resulted in a potentiation of strychnine-induced convulsions. On the other hand, neurochemical experiments in mouse brain cortex slices and in synaptosomes demonstrated that HEPB did not affect the high affinity uptake of [3H] GABA, its spontaneous or Ca2+ dependent release stimulated by depolarizing K+ concentrations, and its Na+ independent binding to synaptic plasma membranes.", "contents": "Neurophysiological and neurochemical studies on the action of the anticonvulsant gamma-hydroxy, gamma-ethyl, gamma-phenyl-butyramide. The effect of gamma-hydroxy, gamma-ethyl, gamma-phenyl-butyramide (HEPB) on afterdischarges produced by hippocampal stimulation in cats was studied. HEPB notably diminished the duration of afterdischarges and in some cats blocked their propagation into the substantia nigra and the amygdala. HEPB treatment also antagonized the enhancement of afterdischarge duration produced by subconvulsive doses of bicuculline, whereas treatment with diphenylhydantoin strongly potentiated this effect of bicuculline. The intracisternal injection of HEPB or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in mice resulted in a potentiation of strychnine-induced convulsions. On the other hand, neurochemical experiments in mouse brain cortex slices and in synaptosomes demonstrated that HEPB did not affect the high affinity uptake of [3H] GABA, its spontaneous or Ca2+ dependent release stimulated by depolarizing K+ concentrations, and its Na+ independent binding to synaptic plasma membranes.", "PMID": 456334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12141", "title": "Evidence for the existence of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase ferroactivator activity in adult and fetal guinea pigs.", "content": "Newborn (24--72 h) guinea pig liver cytosolic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activity is increased by incubation of the cytosol with the metal salts FeCl2, MnCl2, CoCl2 and CdCl2. FeCl2 at 30 micromol/l concentration is the most effective activator causing a 3.5-fold increase in activity. Purified rat liver cytosolic PEPCK is activated by 30 mumol/l FeCl2 in the presence of liver cytosol of fetal and newborn guinea pigs. These results confirm the existence of PEPCK ferroactivator in the guinea pig which has properties similar to the one found in rat liver. The tissue distribution of ferroactivator activity parallels that of cytosolic PEPCK, being highest in the gluconeogenic organs liver and kidney. Hepatic PEPCK ferroactivator activity can be demonstrated by day 45 of gestation, increasing linearly in specific activity to adult levels at term (65 days). The distribution and development of the ferroactivator is consistent with the hypothesis that it may play a role in the physiologic control of PEPCK.", "contents": "Evidence for the existence of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase ferroactivator activity in adult and fetal guinea pigs. Newborn (24--72 h) guinea pig liver cytosolic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activity is increased by incubation of the cytosol with the metal salts FeCl2, MnCl2, CoCl2 and CdCl2. FeCl2 at 30 micromol/l concentration is the most effective activator causing a 3.5-fold increase in activity. Purified rat liver cytosolic PEPCK is activated by 30 mumol/l FeCl2 in the presence of liver cytosol of fetal and newborn guinea pigs. These results confirm the existence of PEPCK ferroactivator in the guinea pig which has properties similar to the one found in rat liver. The tissue distribution of ferroactivator activity parallels that of cytosolic PEPCK, being highest in the gluconeogenic organs liver and kidney. Hepatic PEPCK ferroactivator activity can be demonstrated by day 45 of gestation, increasing linearly in specific activity to adult levels at term (65 days). The distribution and development of the ferroactivator is consistent with the hypothesis that it may play a role in the physiologic control of PEPCK.", "PMID": 456336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12142", "title": "Lymphatic transport of cellular enzymes from muscle into the intravascular compartment.", "content": "In an experimental study, employing anaesthetized dogs, it was investigated whether cellular enzymes from peripheral skeletal muscle get into the circulating blood by diffusion across capillary membranes or by lymphatic transport. In the experimental group 1, the animals were anaesthetized only. The plasma activities of the four enzymes measured--lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase--did not show any mentionable change during a time period of 6 h. In group 2 one hind limb of each animal was moved passively for 1 h. Alanine aminotransferase remained unchanged in plasma, the activities of the three other enzymes increased significantly. In group 3 one hind limb was made hypoxic by clamping the femoral blood vessels for 1 h. No activity changes were observed. When the period of hypoxia was followed by a 1-hour period of passive movement in group 4, the alterations in plasma activities were almost identical to those observed in group 2. In group 5 the experimental procedure was as in group 4, in addition the lymph from the thoracic duct was quantitatively withdrawn. The enzyme activities in plasma revealed a tendency to decrease rather than increase. Lymph flow increased significantly as well as the lymphatic activities of those enzymes which have high intracellular activities in muscle. The results prove, that enzymes from muscle are transported from the interstitial into the intravascular compartment mainly by lymphatic transport. Indications were found that the interruption of blood flow in one hind limb did not result in an enzyme release from muscle cells. It is discussed how changes in lymph flow, occurring during physical exercise for example, affect enzyme activities in plasma.", "contents": "Lymphatic transport of cellular enzymes from muscle into the intravascular compartment. In an experimental study, employing anaesthetized dogs, it was investigated whether cellular enzymes from peripheral skeletal muscle get into the circulating blood by diffusion across capillary membranes or by lymphatic transport. In the experimental group 1, the animals were anaesthetized only. The plasma activities of the four enzymes measured--lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase--did not show any mentionable change during a time period of 6 h. In group 2 one hind limb of each animal was moved passively for 1 h. Alanine aminotransferase remained unchanged in plasma, the activities of the three other enzymes increased significantly. In group 3 one hind limb was made hypoxic by clamping the femoral blood vessels for 1 h. No activity changes were observed. When the period of hypoxia was followed by a 1-hour period of passive movement in group 4, the alterations in plasma activities were almost identical to those observed in group 2. In group 5 the experimental procedure was as in group 4, in addition the lymph from the thoracic duct was quantitatively withdrawn. The enzyme activities in plasma revealed a tendency to decrease rather than increase. Lymph flow increased significantly as well as the lymphatic activities of those enzymes which have high intracellular activities in muscle. The results prove, that enzymes from muscle are transported from the interstitial into the intravascular compartment mainly by lymphatic transport. Indications were found that the interruption of blood flow in one hind limb did not result in an enzyme release from muscle cells. It is discussed how changes in lymph flow, occurring during physical exercise for example, affect enzyme activities in plasma.", "PMID": 456337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12143", "title": "Glycogen phosphorylase activities in skeletal muscle and heart of genetically dystrophic Syrian hamster.", "content": "A simple, rapid and reliable procedure of tissue preparation was devised to estimate glycogen phosphorylase activity in cardiac and skeletal muscle of normal and genetically dystrophic Syrian hamsters of various ages. Total phosphorylase activities of dystrophic skeletal muscle, compared to normal, were reduced. Except for the case of heart from the younger dystrophic animals (45 days old), in which higher phosphorylase activity was noted, hearts from dystrophic hamsters, compared to normal, also showed reduced phosphorylase activities. There were, however, no significances in the ratios of phosphorylase alpha to total phosphorylase between the normal and dystrophic tissues.", "contents": "Glycogen phosphorylase activities in skeletal muscle and heart of genetically dystrophic Syrian hamster. A simple, rapid and reliable procedure of tissue preparation was devised to estimate glycogen phosphorylase activity in cardiac and skeletal muscle of normal and genetically dystrophic Syrian hamsters of various ages. Total phosphorylase activities of dystrophic skeletal muscle, compared to normal, were reduced. Except for the case of heart from the younger dystrophic animals (45 days old), in which higher phosphorylase activity was noted, hearts from dystrophic hamsters, compared to normal, also showed reduced phosphorylase activities. There were, however, no significances in the ratios of phosphorylase alpha to total phosphorylase between the normal and dystrophic tissues.", "PMID": 456338} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12144", "title": "A double-labelling radioassay for the determination of 5'-nucleotidase activity.", "content": "For the determination of 5'-ribonucleotide phosphohydrolase (EC 3.1.3.5;5'-Nase) in rat liver, a radiochemical double-labelling assay was developed. [14C]-labelled AMP which is hydrolyzed to [14C]-adenosine by 5'-Nase activity is added to crude liver homogenates. After 30 min, the process is stopped and [2-3H]-adenosine added to estimate the loss of [14C]-adenosine during separation by ion exchange column chromatography. The enzymatic reaction was found to be linear in correlation with the enzyme content and the incubation time. The specificity of the reaction was evaluated by addition of beta-glycerophosphate which acts as a competitive inhibitor to eliminate the catalytic effect of non-specific phosphatases, and addition of alpha, beta-methylene adenosine 5'-diphosphate, a specific inhibitor of 5'-Nase; both cause an almost complete suppression of enzyme activity.", "contents": "A double-labelling radioassay for the determination of 5'-nucleotidase activity. For the determination of 5'-ribonucleotide phosphohydrolase (EC 3.1.3.5;5'-Nase) in rat liver, a radiochemical double-labelling assay was developed. [14C]-labelled AMP which is hydrolyzed to [14C]-adenosine by 5'-Nase activity is added to crude liver homogenates. After 30 min, the process is stopped and [2-3H]-adenosine added to estimate the loss of [14C]-adenosine during separation by ion exchange column chromatography. The enzymatic reaction was found to be linear in correlation with the enzyme content and the incubation time. The specificity of the reaction was evaluated by addition of beta-glycerophosphate which acts as a competitive inhibitor to eliminate the catalytic effect of non-specific phosphatases, and addition of alpha, beta-methylene adenosine 5'-diphosphate, a specific inhibitor of 5'-Nase; both cause an almost complete suppression of enzyme activity.", "PMID": 456339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12145", "title": "Ceruloplasmin elevation and synthesis in rats with transplantable tumors.", "content": "In rats with transplantable mammary or hepatic tumors, plasma ceruloplasmin oxidase activity was increased 50--200%. This occurred progressively with tumors weighing 0.3% of body weight of more, and did not occur upon sham operation or implantation of normal tissue. Incorporation of [3H]-leucine indicated a specific enhancement of ceruloplasmin synthesis in the tumor-bearing rats, and a greater state of activation of the enzyme was also observed. The mechanism of the increase in ceruloplasmin levels in rats and humans with cancer thus appears to involve increased synthesis and activation of the enzyme.", "contents": "Ceruloplasmin elevation and synthesis in rats with transplantable tumors. In rats with transplantable mammary or hepatic tumors, plasma ceruloplasmin oxidase activity was increased 50--200%. This occurred progressively with tumors weighing 0.3% of body weight of more, and did not occur upon sham operation or implantation of normal tissue. Incorporation of [3H]-leucine indicated a specific enhancement of ceruloplasmin synthesis in the tumor-bearing rats, and a greater state of activation of the enzyme was also observed. The mechanism of the increase in ceruloplasmin levels in rats and humans with cancer thus appears to involve increased synthesis and activation of the enzyme.", "PMID": 456340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12146", "title": "Turnover studies of human intestinal brush border membrane glycoproteins in organ culture.", "content": "Turnover in organ culture of human small intestinal membrane glycoproteins was measured by the pulse-chase technique, using 14C-glucosamine, 14C-fucose or 14C-leucine as tracers. Apparently, low degradation rates were found for the major high-molecular-weight proteins which co-migrated on SDS-polyacrylamide gels with maltase-glucoamylase, lactase-phlorizin-hydrolase and sucrase-isomaltase enzymic activities. In contrast, an unidentified glycoprotein appearing on gels next to alkaline phosphatase exhibited a higher degradation rate with an apparent half-life of about 30 h, this being similar to the half-life of total glycoprotein as measured in mucosal homogenates. The results obtained with the pulse-chase technique were confirmed by double isotope experiments using 14C-leucine and 3H-leucine as tracers. These findings indicate that in organ culture there is a low basic turnover of human intestinal membrane glycoproteins which co-migrate on gels with known glycosidase enzymic activities.", "contents": "Turnover studies of human intestinal brush border membrane glycoproteins in organ culture. Turnover in organ culture of human small intestinal membrane glycoproteins was measured by the pulse-chase technique, using 14C-glucosamine, 14C-fucose or 14C-leucine as tracers. Apparently, low degradation rates were found for the major high-molecular-weight proteins which co-migrated on SDS-polyacrylamide gels with maltase-glucoamylase, lactase-phlorizin-hydrolase and sucrase-isomaltase enzymic activities. In contrast, an unidentified glycoprotein appearing on gels next to alkaline phosphatase exhibited a higher degradation rate with an apparent half-life of about 30 h, this being similar to the half-life of total glycoprotein as measured in mucosal homogenates. The results obtained with the pulse-chase technique were confirmed by double isotope experiments using 14C-leucine and 3H-leucine as tracers. These findings indicate that in organ culture there is a low basic turnover of human intestinal membrane glycoproteins which co-migrate on gels with known glycosidase enzymic activities.", "PMID": 456341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12147", "title": "A method for designing peptide substrates for proteases. Tripeptidyl-p-nitroanilide substrates for subtilisin Carlsberg.", "content": "1. The kinetic parameters of 25 peptidyl-p-nitroanilide substrates were investigated with subtilisin Carlsberg as model enzyme. 2. For a series of 12 substrates, the contribution of various side chains to the affinity constant was computed by regression analysis. From these contributions the sequence of a new and better substrate, N-benzyloxycarbonyl-arginyl-norleucyl-norleucyl-p-nitroanilide (Z-Arg-Nle-Nle-Nan) was predicted. The compound was synthesized and assayed. Its calculated 1/Km value, 43.5 mM-1, was in a good agreement with the value of 40.0 mM-1 that was determined experimentally. 3. On expanding the series to 19 substrates, it was found that the productivity of enzyme-substrate binding is influenced primarily by those subsites which have a significantly greater contribution to the affinity constants than others. 4. The additivity principle applied reasonably well for the contribution of individual side chains to the kinetic parameters. This fact suggests that regression analysis can be used for the prediction of the amino acid sequence of better substrates than those already tested, probably not only for subtilisin but also for other proteolytic enzymes.", "contents": "A method for designing peptide substrates for proteases. Tripeptidyl-p-nitroanilide substrates for subtilisin Carlsberg. 1. The kinetic parameters of 25 peptidyl-p-nitroanilide substrates were investigated with subtilisin Carlsberg as model enzyme. 2. For a series of 12 substrates, the contribution of various side chains to the affinity constant was computed by regression analysis. From these contributions the sequence of a new and better substrate, N-benzyloxycarbonyl-arginyl-norleucyl-norleucyl-p-nitroanilide (Z-Arg-Nle-Nle-Nan) was predicted. The compound was synthesized and assayed. Its calculated 1/Km value, 43.5 mM-1, was in a good agreement with the value of 40.0 mM-1 that was determined experimentally. 3. On expanding the series to 19 substrates, it was found that the productivity of enzyme-substrate binding is influenced primarily by those subsites which have a significantly greater contribution to the affinity constants than others. 4. The additivity principle applied reasonably well for the contribution of individual side chains to the kinetic parameters. This fact suggests that regression analysis can be used for the prediction of the amino acid sequence of better substrates than those already tested, probably not only for subtilisin but also for other proteolytic enzymes.", "PMID": 456343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12148", "title": "Protein--non-ionic detergent interaction. Interaction of bovine serum albumin with alkyl glucosides studied by equilibrium dialysis and infrared spectroscopy.", "content": "The binding isotherms of bovine serum albumin with octylglucoside and decyl glucoside were determined at 7 degrees C and 25 degrees C at pH 7.4 and ionic strength 0.1 M. The average number of detergent molecules bound was found to increase with increasing hydrocarbon chain length. Competitive binding indicates that alkylglycosides combine with the same sites as alkyl sulphates. Native bovine serum albumin has about 12 and 10 sites for non-ionic ligands at 7 degrees C and about 15 and 13 sites at 25 degrees C for octyl and decyl glucosides respectively. The values for standard free energy changes--delta G0, were calculated from the intrinsic association constants. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy was used to study the effects of alkyl glucosides on the conformation of albumin. The results obtained indicate that there are no significant changes in protein structure.", "contents": "Protein--non-ionic detergent interaction. Interaction of bovine serum albumin with alkyl glucosides studied by equilibrium dialysis and infrared spectroscopy. The binding isotherms of bovine serum albumin with octylglucoside and decyl glucoside were determined at 7 degrees C and 25 degrees C at pH 7.4 and ionic strength 0.1 M. The average number of detergent molecules bound was found to increase with increasing hydrocarbon chain length. Competitive binding indicates that alkylglycosides combine with the same sites as alkyl sulphates. Native bovine serum albumin has about 12 and 10 sites for non-ionic ligands at 7 degrees C and about 15 and 13 sites at 25 degrees C for octyl and decyl glucosides respectively. The values for standard free energy changes--delta G0, were calculated from the intrinsic association constants. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy was used to study the effects of alkyl glucosides on the conformation of albumin. The results obtained indicate that there are no significant changes in protein structure.", "PMID": 456344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12149", "title": "Norepinephrine-stimulated fatty-acid release and oxygen consumption in isolated hamster brown-fat cells. Influence of buffers, albumin, insulin and mitochondrial inhibitors.", "content": "Brown fat cells isolated from adult golden hamsters have earlier been found to respond to addition of the physiological agonist norepinephrine with an increased rate of oxygen consumption and with fatty acid release. Working with these cells, we found the following. 1. The presence of albumin in the incubation medium (phosphate buffer) increases norepinephrine-induced fatty acid release and tends to stabilize the rate of oxygen consumption; bubbling of phosphate buffer with 5% CO2 in air has only a slight effect on fatty acid release. 2. In the presence of albumin, the norepinephrine-induced rate of oxygen consumption is also stable in bicarbonate buffer; it is higher than in the phosphate + CO2 buffer and the brown fat cells have a higher sensitivity to norepinephrine. 3. 20 mM phosphate (as e.g. present in a phosphate buffer) inhibits both fatty acid release and oxygen consumption. 4. Insulin inhibits the rate of oxygen consumption, but only at suboptimal concentrations of norepinephrine. 5. Atractylate inhibits submaximal norepinephrine-induced respiration, indicating that some oxidative phosphorylation takes place in norepinephrine-stimulated brown fat cells. 6. Fatty acid export from brown fat should be regarded as physiologically important.", "contents": "Norepinephrine-stimulated fatty-acid release and oxygen consumption in isolated hamster brown-fat cells. Influence of buffers, albumin, insulin and mitochondrial inhibitors. Brown fat cells isolated from adult golden hamsters have earlier been found to respond to addition of the physiological agonist norepinephrine with an increased rate of oxygen consumption and with fatty acid release. Working with these cells, we found the following. 1. The presence of albumin in the incubation medium (phosphate buffer) increases norepinephrine-induced fatty acid release and tends to stabilize the rate of oxygen consumption; bubbling of phosphate buffer with 5% CO2 in air has only a slight effect on fatty acid release. 2. In the presence of albumin, the norepinephrine-induced rate of oxygen consumption is also stable in bicarbonate buffer; it is higher than in the phosphate + CO2 buffer and the brown fat cells have a higher sensitivity to norepinephrine. 3. 20 mM phosphate (as e.g. present in a phosphate buffer) inhibits both fatty acid release and oxygen consumption. 4. Insulin inhibits the rate of oxygen consumption, but only at suboptimal concentrations of norepinephrine. 5. Atractylate inhibits submaximal norepinephrine-induced respiration, indicating that some oxidative phosphorylation takes place in norepinephrine-stimulated brown fat cells. 6. Fatty acid export from brown fat should be regarded as physiologically important.", "PMID": 456345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12150", "title": "Conformational energy calculation on the peptide part of murein.", "content": "Conformational energy calculations have been carried out on N-acetyl-L-alanyl-D-gamma-glutamyl-L-lysyl-D-alanyl-D-alanine as a model of the peptide moiety of peptidoglycan. Although many conformations were of comparable energy, particular favoured conformations were selected by assuming conformational similarity between the pentapeptide and the tetrapeptide found during biosynthesis subsequent to the cross-linking of the peptide chains in murein. The common feature of these conformations, which include the global minimum of the pentapeptide, is a ring-shaped backbone. The global minimum is stabilised by a hydrogen bond between the -NH group of L-alanine and the -CO group of the penultimate D-alanine. The distance between the D-lactyl group and the side-chain of the diamino acid is about 1.5 nm. The ring-like structures will accomodate chemical modifications that have been observed in peptidoglycan. The present ring-like structure differs considerably from the models proposed as yet. Energetically beta-pleated sheet conformations and a flat 2.2(7) helical structure are not favoured. Furthermore, an alpha helix cannot occur. The suggested new model exhibits no significant relationship to the solid state conformation of beta-lactam antibiotics.", "contents": "Conformational energy calculation on the peptide part of murein. Conformational energy calculations have been carried out on N-acetyl-L-alanyl-D-gamma-glutamyl-L-lysyl-D-alanyl-D-alanine as a model of the peptide moiety of peptidoglycan. Although many conformations were of comparable energy, particular favoured conformations were selected by assuming conformational similarity between the pentapeptide and the tetrapeptide found during biosynthesis subsequent to the cross-linking of the peptide chains in murein. The common feature of these conformations, which include the global minimum of the pentapeptide, is a ring-shaped backbone. The global minimum is stabilised by a hydrogen bond between the -NH group of L-alanine and the -CO group of the penultimate D-alanine. The distance between the D-lactyl group and the side-chain of the diamino acid is about 1.5 nm. The ring-like structures will accomodate chemical modifications that have been observed in peptidoglycan. The present ring-like structure differs considerably from the models proposed as yet. Energetically beta-pleated sheet conformations and a flat 2.2(7) helical structure are not favoured. Furthermore, an alpha helix cannot occur. The suggested new model exhibits no significant relationship to the solid state conformation of beta-lactam antibiotics.", "PMID": 456347} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12151", "title": "(Photo)chemistry of 5-deazaflavin. A clue to the mechanism of flavin-dependent (de)hydrogenation.", "content": "The catalytic action of 5-deazaflavin in the photochemical reduction of flavin and iron proteins [Massey, V. and Hemmerich, P. (1978) Biochemistry, 17, 9--17] is shown to be due to the highly reactive 5-deazaflavosemiquinone. This radical is generated in a complex sequence of reactions, which involves (a) covalent photoaddition of the substrate residue to the deazaflavin, (b) fast secondary photoreaction of this adduct with starting deazaflavin to yield a covalent radical dimer, accompanied by the liberation of the oxidized substrate, and (c) deazaflavin-sensitized cleavage of the radical dimer to the monomers. The structure and properties of this radical (redimerisation or dismutation) and the precursor intermediates as well as the mechanism of the photoreaction are described. Deazaflavins and their natural parent compounds are compared with respect to their different redox behavior and radical stability. The syntheses of 5-deuterated deazaflavins are described and their redox reactions are compared with those of normal deazaflavins.", "contents": "(Photo)chemistry of 5-deazaflavin. A clue to the mechanism of flavin-dependent (de)hydrogenation. The catalytic action of 5-deazaflavin in the photochemical reduction of flavin and iron proteins [Massey, V. and Hemmerich, P. (1978) Biochemistry, 17, 9--17] is shown to be due to the highly reactive 5-deazaflavosemiquinone. This radical is generated in a complex sequence of reactions, which involves (a) covalent photoaddition of the substrate residue to the deazaflavin, (b) fast secondary photoreaction of this adduct with starting deazaflavin to yield a covalent radical dimer, accompanied by the liberation of the oxidized substrate, and (c) deazaflavin-sensitized cleavage of the radical dimer to the monomers. The structure and properties of this radical (redimerisation or dismutation) and the precursor intermediates as well as the mechanism of the photoreaction are described. Deazaflavins and their natural parent compounds are compared with respect to their different redox behavior and radical stability. The syntheses of 5-deuterated deazaflavins are described and their redox reactions are compared with those of normal deazaflavins.", "PMID": 456348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12152", "title": "The complete amino-acid sequence of a trout-testis non-histone protein, H6, localized in a subset of nucleosomes and its similarity to calf-thymus non-histone proteins HMG-14 and HMG-17.", "content": "The complete amino acid sequence of a basic non-histone protein, H6, isolated from the chromatin of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdnerii) testis cells, has been determined. Protein H6, first described by D. T. Wigle and G. H. Dixon [J. Biol. Chem. 246, 5636--5644 (1971)] was extracted with 5% trichloracetic acid and purified by ion-exchange chromatography on carboxymethyl-cellulose (CM-52). Sequence analysis was performed by automatic Edman degradation of the amino terminus of the intact protein and a series of large fragments derived by cleavage with chymotrypsin, staphylococcal protease and with mild acid to cleave at aspartic acid residues. Protein H6 possesses 69 residues and shows considerable similarities to the 89-residue calf thymus HMG-17 protein previously sequenced [Walker, J. M., Hastings, J. R. B. & Johns, E. W. (1977) Eur. J. Biochem. 76, 461--468]. B. Levy W. and G. H. Dixon [Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 74, 2810--2814 (1977)] have shown that H6 is selectively solubilized when trout testis nuclei (or chromatin) are digested with DNase I under conditions which preferentially hydrolyze that portion of DNA enriched in transcribed sequences [Levy, W. B. & Dixon, G. H. (1977) Nucleic Acids Res. 4, 883--898]. Recently H6 has been located as a stoichiometric component of a distinct subset of trout testis nucleosomes that are complexed with a core nucleosome comprising 140 base pairs of DNA and the inner histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4 [Levy, W. B., Connor, W. & Dixon, G. H. (1979) J. Biol. Chem., in the press].", "contents": "The complete amino-acid sequence of a trout-testis non-histone protein, H6, localized in a subset of nucleosomes and its similarity to calf-thymus non-histone proteins HMG-14 and HMG-17. The complete amino acid sequence of a basic non-histone protein, H6, isolated from the chromatin of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdnerii) testis cells, has been determined. Protein H6, first described by D. T. Wigle and G. H. Dixon [J. Biol. Chem. 246, 5636--5644 (1971)] was extracted with 5% trichloracetic acid and purified by ion-exchange chromatography on carboxymethyl-cellulose (CM-52). Sequence analysis was performed by automatic Edman degradation of the amino terminus of the intact protein and a series of large fragments derived by cleavage with chymotrypsin, staphylococcal protease and with mild acid to cleave at aspartic acid residues. Protein H6 possesses 69 residues and shows considerable similarities to the 89-residue calf thymus HMG-17 protein previously sequenced [Walker, J. M., Hastings, J. R. B. & Johns, E. W. (1977) Eur. J. Biochem. 76, 461--468]. B. Levy W. and G. H. Dixon [Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 74, 2810--2814 (1977)] have shown that H6 is selectively solubilized when trout testis nuclei (or chromatin) are digested with DNase I under conditions which preferentially hydrolyze that portion of DNA enriched in transcribed sequences [Levy, W. B. & Dixon, G. H. (1977) Nucleic Acids Res. 4, 883--898]. Recently H6 has been located as a stoichiometric component of a distinct subset of trout testis nucleosomes that are complexed with a core nucleosome comprising 140 base pairs of DNA and the inner histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4 [Levy, W. B., Connor, W. & Dixon, G. H. (1979) J. Biol. Chem., in the press].", "PMID": 456349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12153", "title": "Globin mRNA precursor. Cross-linking in situ of double-stranded segments with aminomethyltrioxalen.", "content": "The globin mRNA sequences present in duck erythroblast nuclei appear under non-denaturing conditions to be associated with heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) molecules of various sizes. Under denaturing conditions, however, the bulk of the globin mRNA sequences associated with hnRNA are released as molecules of size close to that of the active globin mRNA. To find out whether hydrogen-bonded structures occur in situ or arise after RNA extraction, nuclei were treated with aminomethyltrioxalen and exposed to ultraviolet light. This treatment generates covalent links between opposite strands of double-stranded nuclei acids, which were visualised by electron microscopy. It appears that, after cross-linking, a fraction of the globin mRNA sequences present in nuclei is associated with high-molecular-weight hnRNA molecules by a link found associated with a band of 0.9 x 10(6) molecular weight approximately. It is suggested that within the erythroblast nucleus, globin mRNA sequences are associated by hydrogen bonds with RNA of high molecular weight. These structures may represent intermediate steps in globin mRNA processing.", "contents": "Globin mRNA precursor. Cross-linking in situ of double-stranded segments with aminomethyltrioxalen. The globin mRNA sequences present in duck erythroblast nuclei appear under non-denaturing conditions to be associated with heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) molecules of various sizes. Under denaturing conditions, however, the bulk of the globin mRNA sequences associated with hnRNA are released as molecules of size close to that of the active globin mRNA. To find out whether hydrogen-bonded structures occur in situ or arise after RNA extraction, nuclei were treated with aminomethyltrioxalen and exposed to ultraviolet light. This treatment generates covalent links between opposite strands of double-stranded nuclei acids, which were visualised by electron microscopy. It appears that, after cross-linking, a fraction of the globin mRNA sequences present in nuclei is associated with high-molecular-weight hnRNA molecules by a link found associated with a band of 0.9 x 10(6) molecular weight approximately. It is suggested that within the erythroblast nucleus, globin mRNA sequences are associated by hydrogen bonds with RNA of high molecular weight. These structures may represent intermediate steps in globin mRNA processing.", "PMID": 456350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12154", "title": "Expression of external-surface membrane proteins in differentiated and undifferentiated mouse neuroblastoma cells.", "content": "Murine neuroblastoma cultures were labeled externally with the cationic reagent N,N,N-[3H]-trimethylamino-beta-alanyl-N-hydroxy-succinimide ester ([3H]Me3N-beta Ala-NSuc) or with 125I/lactoperoxidase. The cells were labeled in the logarithmic and confluent growth phases as well as in a highly differentiated state following treatment with 2% dimethylsulfoxide. The labeled exterior membrane proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Major changes in the exterior membrane proteins were observed during maturation and differentiation of the cells. Most of these changes were clonal-specific, while others were common to several clones. Two proteins of Mr 55,000 and 65,000 were labeled by both 125I/lactoperoxidase and Me3N-[3H]-beta Ala-NSuc. The level of labeling was dependent on the clonal lines used and the state of the cell maturation. A group of proteins displaying a molecular weight between 150,000 and 200,000 was found to be related to the transition of a culture from logarithmic to confluent growth phases. An additional protein, with an apparent molecular weight of 95,000, was common to differentiated cells of the two inducible clones used. In general the maturation of logarithmic phase cells into confluent cells resulted in a less complex electrophoretic distribution of the pattern of labeling. After dimethyl-sulfoxide treatment, further reduction in the complexity of the externally labeled proteins was observed.", "contents": "Expression of external-surface membrane proteins in differentiated and undifferentiated mouse neuroblastoma cells. Murine neuroblastoma cultures were labeled externally with the cationic reagent N,N,N-[3H]-trimethylamino-beta-alanyl-N-hydroxy-succinimide ester ([3H]Me3N-beta Ala-NSuc) or with 125I/lactoperoxidase. The cells were labeled in the logarithmic and confluent growth phases as well as in a highly differentiated state following treatment with 2% dimethylsulfoxide. The labeled exterior membrane proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Major changes in the exterior membrane proteins were observed during maturation and differentiation of the cells. Most of these changes were clonal-specific, while others were common to several clones. Two proteins of Mr 55,000 and 65,000 were labeled by both 125I/lactoperoxidase and Me3N-[3H]-beta Ala-NSuc. The level of labeling was dependent on the clonal lines used and the state of the cell maturation. A group of proteins displaying a molecular weight between 150,000 and 200,000 was found to be related to the transition of a culture from logarithmic to confluent growth phases. An additional protein, with an apparent molecular weight of 95,000, was common to differentiated cells of the two inducible clones used. In general the maturation of logarithmic phase cells into confluent cells resulted in a less complex electrophoretic distribution of the pattern of labeling. After dimethyl-sulfoxide treatment, further reduction in the complexity of the externally labeled proteins was observed.", "PMID": 456351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12155", "title": "Induction of the phosphoenolpyruvate: hexose phosphotransferase system associated with relative anaerobiosis in an obligate aerobe.", "content": "Arthrobacter pyridinolis possesses alternative transport systems for D-fructose: a respiration-coupled transport system whereby D-fructose transport occurs with concomitant oxidation of L-malate, and a phosphoenolpyruvate: D-fructose phosphotransferase system. Studies of D-fructose uptake by whole cells in the presence and absence of cyanide demonstrate that respiration-coupled transport is used almost exclusively during the first half of logarithmic growth, after which it accounts for only 15-20% of D-fructose uptake. Phosphotransferase levels are low during log phase, peak during late log, and then slowly decline. In a mutant of A. pyridinolis which requires delta-aminolevulinic acid for growth, the growth rate, cell cytochrome content, and activity of the respiration-coupled transport system increased with increasing concentrations of delta-aminolevulinic acid up to 50 microgram/ml. By contrast, phosphotransferase activity was highest in cells grown on limiting delta-aminolevulinic acid. L-Malate, which stimulates respiration-coupled transport, repressed the phosphotransferase system. The respiratory activity and the ability to release CO2 from internalized d-fructose was consistently low in D-fructose-grown cells. A cyanide-resistant cytochrome, tentatively identified as cytochrome d, appeared in the late exponential phase of growth. Isocitrate lyase activity, required for aerobic growth of this organism, declined markedly during the late exponential phase. Thus the phosphotransferase system is maximally induced, in this obligate aerobe, under conditions of relative anaerobiosis during which metabolism is primarily fermentative.", "contents": "Induction of the phosphoenolpyruvate: hexose phosphotransferase system associated with relative anaerobiosis in an obligate aerobe. Arthrobacter pyridinolis possesses alternative transport systems for D-fructose: a respiration-coupled transport system whereby D-fructose transport occurs with concomitant oxidation of L-malate, and a phosphoenolpyruvate: D-fructose phosphotransferase system. Studies of D-fructose uptake by whole cells in the presence and absence of cyanide demonstrate that respiration-coupled transport is used almost exclusively during the first half of logarithmic growth, after which it accounts for only 15-20% of D-fructose uptake. Phosphotransferase levels are low during log phase, peak during late log, and then slowly decline. In a mutant of A. pyridinolis which requires delta-aminolevulinic acid for growth, the growth rate, cell cytochrome content, and activity of the respiration-coupled transport system increased with increasing concentrations of delta-aminolevulinic acid up to 50 microgram/ml. By contrast, phosphotransferase activity was highest in cells grown on limiting delta-aminolevulinic acid. L-Malate, which stimulates respiration-coupled transport, repressed the phosphotransferase system. The respiratory activity and the ability to release CO2 from internalized d-fructose was consistently low in D-fructose-grown cells. A cyanide-resistant cytochrome, tentatively identified as cytochrome d, appeared in the late exponential phase of growth. Isocitrate lyase activity, required for aerobic growth of this organism, declined markedly during the late exponential phase. Thus the phosphotransferase system is maximally induced, in this obligate aerobe, under conditions of relative anaerobiosis during which metabolism is primarily fermentative.", "PMID": 456352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12156", "title": "Hepatocyte chromosomal non-histone proteins in developing rats.", "content": "Rat hepatocytes taken a different stages of the perinatal period were partially purified. On sodium dodecylsulphate acrylamide electrophoresis chromosomal non-histone proteins showed important variations in complexity during development. Chromosomal phosvitin kinase strongly increased during the last days of fetal life; it strongly decreased just after birth and increased again for a short time, while the cytosol phosvitin kinase increased more significantly after birth. Chromosomal non-histone proteins prepared at varoius stages were incubated with [gamma-32P]ATP and resolved on polyacrylamide gel. The incorporation was very low in sample taken at the 15th say of the fetal life. A dramatic increase was observed at the 17th day. This incorporation strongly decreased in the samples taken thereafter and it was negligible in proteins from adult rats. The variations in protein kinase and in 32P incorporation into non-histone proteins were correlated with the pattern of appearance of enzymes in this period of life, with cell growth and with the hormone-induced maturation.", "contents": "Hepatocyte chromosomal non-histone proteins in developing rats. Rat hepatocytes taken a different stages of the perinatal period were partially purified. On sodium dodecylsulphate acrylamide electrophoresis chromosomal non-histone proteins showed important variations in complexity during development. Chromosomal phosvitin kinase strongly increased during the last days of fetal life; it strongly decreased just after birth and increased again for a short time, while the cytosol phosvitin kinase increased more significantly after birth. Chromosomal non-histone proteins prepared at varoius stages were incubated with [gamma-32P]ATP and resolved on polyacrylamide gel. The incorporation was very low in sample taken at the 15th say of the fetal life. A dramatic increase was observed at the 17th day. This incorporation strongly decreased in the samples taken thereafter and it was negligible in proteins from adult rats. The variations in protein kinase and in 32P incorporation into non-histone proteins were correlated with the pattern of appearance of enzymes in this period of life, with cell growth and with the hormone-induced maturation.", "PMID": 456354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12157", "title": "Isolation and characterization of a native placental basement-membrane collagen and its component alpha chains.", "content": "Native type IV collagen was isolated from human placenta using pepsin solubilisation followed by fractional salt precipitation and chromatogarphic purification. The native preparation was characterised using amino acid analyses, disc gel electrophoresis, segment-long-spacing crystallites and immunological methods. Two component alpha chains were isolated with molecular weights of approximately 95000 and 70000. Cyanogen bromide digests of these chains indicated that they are not related to any of the known alpha chains of interstitial collagens or to the recently described collagen containing alphaA and alphaB chains. They are also not related to one another and are therefore probably fragments of two genetically distinct type IV collagen alpha chains.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of a native placental basement-membrane collagen and its component alpha chains. Native type IV collagen was isolated from human placenta using pepsin solubilisation followed by fractional salt precipitation and chromatogarphic purification. The native preparation was characterised using amino acid analyses, disc gel electrophoresis, segment-long-spacing crystallites and immunological methods. Two component alpha chains were isolated with molecular weights of approximately 95000 and 70000. Cyanogen bromide digests of these chains indicated that they are not related to any of the known alpha chains of interstitial collagens or to the recently described collagen containing alphaA and alphaB chains. They are also not related to one another and are therefore probably fragments of two genetically distinct type IV collagen alpha chains.", "PMID": 456357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12158", "title": "Construction in vitro of hybrid plasmids carrying all the EcoRI fragments from lambdarifd18 DNA.", "content": "The cloning of all the eleven fragments obtained by degrading the phage lambdarifd18 by the restriction enzyme EcoRI into the plasmid pSF2124 has been achieved: nine of these fragments have been cloned individually, whereas two others have been cloned jointly in the same plasmid. These fragments harbor, in addition of lambda genes, the genes for ribosomal proteins, the elongation factor Tu, the beta and beta' subunits of RNA polymerase and the ribosomal RNAs. The clones carrying the ribosomal RNA genes have been constructed to provide convenient plasmids to determine the primary structure of ribosomal RNAs. Some further genetic manipulations in vitro have been performed on two of them to remove extraneous non-ribosomal RNA gene sequences; the ribosomal genes purified this way have been subcloned into the plasmid pBR322. Other clones of interest have been obtained which carry the genes for the elongation factor Tu, a number of 50-S ribosomal proteins and the beta subunit of RNA polymerase.", "contents": "Construction in vitro of hybrid plasmids carrying all the EcoRI fragments from lambdarifd18 DNA. The cloning of all the eleven fragments obtained by degrading the phage lambdarifd18 by the restriction enzyme EcoRI into the plasmid pSF2124 has been achieved: nine of these fragments have been cloned individually, whereas two others have been cloned jointly in the same plasmid. These fragments harbor, in addition of lambda genes, the genes for ribosomal proteins, the elongation factor Tu, the beta and beta' subunits of RNA polymerase and the ribosomal RNAs. The clones carrying the ribosomal RNA genes have been constructed to provide convenient plasmids to determine the primary structure of ribosomal RNAs. Some further genetic manipulations in vitro have been performed on two of them to remove extraneous non-ribosomal RNA gene sequences; the ribosomal genes purified this way have been subcloned into the plasmid pBR322. Other clones of interest have been obtained which carry the genes for the elongation factor Tu, a number of 50-S ribosomal proteins and the beta subunit of RNA polymerase.", "PMID": 456358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12159", "title": "Dissociation and reassembly of Limulus polyphemus hemocyanin.", "content": "Limulus polyphemus hemocyanin is a 3.3 x 10(6)-Mr protein containing 48 subunits in an assemblage of eight hexamers. The molecule can be dissociated into monomers and dimers at pH 8.9 in the presence of 0.01 M EDTA. These subunits are heterogeneous and can be separated into five zones (I--V) by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. Reassembly experiments were carried out with varied subunit mixtures, based on different combinations of the five chromatographic zones, in order to study the structural role of the diverse subunits in the eight-hexamer molecule. The reassembly products were analysed by electron microscopy and ultracentrifugation. No structural role for zone I could be found. Zone V and possibly zone II are needed to form structures larger than hexamers. Absence of zone III causes irregular aggregation of hexamers. Zone IV and perhaps zone II are needed to make eight-hexamer molecules from four-hexamer molecules. From these results we conclude that there is a high degree of subunit specificity in the inter-subunit contacts in the native Limulus hemocyanin molecule.", "contents": "Dissociation and reassembly of Limulus polyphemus hemocyanin. Limulus polyphemus hemocyanin is a 3.3 x 10(6)-Mr protein containing 48 subunits in an assemblage of eight hexamers. The molecule can be dissociated into monomers and dimers at pH 8.9 in the presence of 0.01 M EDTA. These subunits are heterogeneous and can be separated into five zones (I--V) by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. Reassembly experiments were carried out with varied subunit mixtures, based on different combinations of the five chromatographic zones, in order to study the structural role of the diverse subunits in the eight-hexamer molecule. The reassembly products were analysed by electron microscopy and ultracentrifugation. No structural role for zone I could be found. Zone V and possibly zone II are needed to form structures larger than hexamers. Absence of zone III causes irregular aggregation of hexamers. Zone IV and perhaps zone II are needed to make eight-hexamer molecules from four-hexamer molecules. From these results we conclude that there is a high degree of subunit specificity in the inter-subunit contacts in the native Limulus hemocyanin molecule.", "PMID": 456359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12160", "title": "Synthesis of albumin and malic enzyme in wheat-germ lysates and Xenopus laevis oocytes programmed with chicken-liver messenger RNA.", "content": "Undegraded, biologically-active, polyadenylated RNA was isolated from chicken liver by a rapid, simple procedure. Liver cells were dispersed mechanically and then broken gently by controlled Dounce homogenization in the absence of detergent or ribonuclease inhibitors. After removing lysosomes and mitochondria by centrifugation, RNA was precipitated at pH 5.2. Polyadenylated mRNA was isolated directly from the detergent-solubilized precipitate by oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography. The resulting RNA was translated into liver-specific peptides in both the wheat germ lysate and Xenopus laevis oocytes. Translatable albumin mRNA was detected in the liver cytoplasm of both fed 3-week-old chicks and unfed, day-old chicks. Translatable malic enzyme mRNA was only detected in the livers from the fed chicks.", "contents": "Synthesis of albumin and malic enzyme in wheat-germ lysates and Xenopus laevis oocytes programmed with chicken-liver messenger RNA. Undegraded, biologically-active, polyadenylated RNA was isolated from chicken liver by a rapid, simple procedure. Liver cells were dispersed mechanically and then broken gently by controlled Dounce homogenization in the absence of detergent or ribonuclease inhibitors. After removing lysosomes and mitochondria by centrifugation, RNA was precipitated at pH 5.2. Polyadenylated mRNA was isolated directly from the detergent-solubilized precipitate by oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography. The resulting RNA was translated into liver-specific peptides in both the wheat germ lysate and Xenopus laevis oocytes. Translatable albumin mRNA was detected in the liver cytoplasm of both fed 3-week-old chicks and unfed, day-old chicks. Translatable malic enzyme mRNA was only detected in the livers from the fed chicks.", "PMID": 456360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12161", "title": "Cobra venom acetylcholinesterase. Purification and molecular properties.", "content": "Acetylcholinesterase from cobra (Naja naja oxiana) venom has been purified by affinity chromatography to an homogeneous state, as ascertained by sodium dodecylsulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and sedimentation analysis. The specific activity of the preparation was 5000 IU/mg with acetylcholine as substrate. Unlike acetylcholinesterases from insoluble cell structures, the native molecule of the cobra venom enzyme consists of a single polypeptide chain of molecular weight 67,000 +/- 2000. At high enzyme concentrations (greater than 0.2 mg/ml, greater than 1 microM) and ionic strength 0.1 M, it reversibly tends to form higher-molecular-weight 7.1-S aggregates. Despite the apparent structural simplicity of the venom acetylcholinesterase, the disc electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing experiments revealed that the enzyme exists in a number of forms with a common molecular weight but with different isoelectric points. Neuraminidase treatment did not reduce the number of the forms.", "contents": "Cobra venom acetylcholinesterase. Purification and molecular properties. Acetylcholinesterase from cobra (Naja naja oxiana) venom has been purified by affinity chromatography to an homogeneous state, as ascertained by sodium dodecylsulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and sedimentation analysis. The specific activity of the preparation was 5000 IU/mg with acetylcholine as substrate. Unlike acetylcholinesterases from insoluble cell structures, the native molecule of the cobra venom enzyme consists of a single polypeptide chain of molecular weight 67,000 +/- 2000. At high enzyme concentrations (greater than 0.2 mg/ml, greater than 1 microM) and ionic strength 0.1 M, it reversibly tends to form higher-molecular-weight 7.1-S aggregates. Despite the apparent structural simplicity of the venom acetylcholinesterase, the disc electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing experiments revealed that the enzyme exists in a number of forms with a common molecular weight but with different isoelectric points. Neuraminidase treatment did not reduce the number of the forms.", "PMID": 456362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12162", "title": "Analysis of the Vicia faba genome by use of restriction endonucleases.", "content": "DNA of the broad bean, Vicia faba, was cleaved by the restriction endonucleases endoR . EcoRI, endoR . HindIII, endoR . HincII, endoR . BamI, and endoR . BspRI. Separation in agarose gels of the resulting fragments revealed, in addition to the bulk DNA, an enzyme-specific pattern of bands composed of restriction fragments of 300 to more than 30,000 base pairs in length. Bulk DNA was characterized by an unusual size distribution which significantly deviated from that expected according to the random fragmentation theory. It is argued that the observed distribution is due to the high proportion of repetitive DNA within this species (approximately equal to 75%). In all digests, a class of high-molecular-weight restriction fragments of more than 30,000 base pairs in length was observed which comprised 5-8% of the genome. It showed hybridization with highly repetitive DNA (c0t less than or equal to 2 x 10(-2) M . s) and included a fraction (2-3% of the genome) highly resistant to the activity of all the enzymes tested. The buoyant density in CsCl of this resistant DNA was not different from that of the total DNA (36% dG + dC). In endoR . EcoRI digests, the high-molecular-weight fragment class contained, in addition to the resistant DNA, a fraction of relatively high buoyant density (calculated dG + dC content: 61%) containing cleavage sites for the other enzymes used.", "contents": "Analysis of the Vicia faba genome by use of restriction endonucleases. DNA of the broad bean, Vicia faba, was cleaved by the restriction endonucleases endoR . EcoRI, endoR . HindIII, endoR . HincII, endoR . BamI, and endoR . BspRI. Separation in agarose gels of the resulting fragments revealed, in addition to the bulk DNA, an enzyme-specific pattern of bands composed of restriction fragments of 300 to more than 30,000 base pairs in length. Bulk DNA was characterized by an unusual size distribution which significantly deviated from that expected according to the random fragmentation theory. It is argued that the observed distribution is due to the high proportion of repetitive DNA within this species (approximately equal to 75%). In all digests, a class of high-molecular-weight restriction fragments of more than 30,000 base pairs in length was observed which comprised 5-8% of the genome. It showed hybridization with highly repetitive DNA (c0t less than or equal to 2 x 10(-2) M . s) and included a fraction (2-3% of the genome) highly resistant to the activity of all the enzymes tested. The buoyant density in CsCl of this resistant DNA was not different from that of the total DNA (36% dG + dC). In endoR . EcoRI digests, the high-molecular-weight fragment class contained, in addition to the resistant DNA, a fraction of relatively high buoyant density (calculated dG + dC content: 61%) containing cleavage sites for the other enzymes used.", "PMID": 456363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12163", "title": "Physarum thymidine kinase. A step or a peak enzyme depending upon temperature of growth.", "content": "The variations of thymidine kinase or ATP:thymidine 5'-phosphotransferase (EC 2.7.1.21) during the cell cycle of Physarum polycephalum plasmodia have been studied at two extreme physiological temperatures: 22 degrees C and 32 degrees C. At 22 degrees C the enzyme activity increases near mitosis and stays constant during late S and G2 phases, exhibiting the typical pattern of a 'step enzyme'. But at 32 degrees C thymidine kinase activity goes through a maximum 1 h 30 min after mitosis and decreases during the subsequent phases as expected for a 'peak enzyme'. The rate of enzyme degradation and/or inactivation, measured in the presence of metabolic poisons (cycloheximide or dinitrophenol), appears to follow a simple exponential function with a half-life of approximately 3 h and 1 h at 22 degrees C and 32 degrees C respectively. The effect of growth temperature on the decrease of thymidine kinase activity can account entirely for the differences in the pattern of enzyme activity at the two extreme temperatures. Tentative calculations indicate that the rate of enzyme synthesis is nearly constant during the cell cycle except near mitosis, where it is temporarily increased. The results suggest the existence of a regulatory mechanism able to modulate the rate of synthesis of thymidine kinase during the cell cycle.", "contents": "Physarum thymidine kinase. A step or a peak enzyme depending upon temperature of growth. The variations of thymidine kinase or ATP:thymidine 5'-phosphotransferase (EC 2.7.1.21) during the cell cycle of Physarum polycephalum plasmodia have been studied at two extreme physiological temperatures: 22 degrees C and 32 degrees C. At 22 degrees C the enzyme activity increases near mitosis and stays constant during late S and G2 phases, exhibiting the typical pattern of a 'step enzyme'. But at 32 degrees C thymidine kinase activity goes through a maximum 1 h 30 min after mitosis and decreases during the subsequent phases as expected for a 'peak enzyme'. The rate of enzyme degradation and/or inactivation, measured in the presence of metabolic poisons (cycloheximide or dinitrophenol), appears to follow a simple exponential function with a half-life of approximately 3 h and 1 h at 22 degrees C and 32 degrees C respectively. The effect of growth temperature on the decrease of thymidine kinase activity can account entirely for the differences in the pattern of enzyme activity at the two extreme temperatures. Tentative calculations indicate that the rate of enzyme synthesis is nearly constant during the cell cycle except near mitosis, where it is temporarily increased. The results suggest the existence of a regulatory mechanism able to modulate the rate of synthesis of thymidine kinase during the cell cycle.", "PMID": 456364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12164", "title": "The complete amino-acid sequence of the sweet protein thaumatin I.", "content": "The primary structure of the sweet-tasting protein thaumatin has been elucidated. The protein consists of a single polypeptide chain of 207 residues. The sequence of the N-terminal part of the chain was determined by sequenator analysis. As the protein contains only one methionine residue, it was possible to deduce the N-terminal sequence of the C-terminal cyanogen bromide fragment by automatic sequencing of the cyanogen-bromide-cleaved, succinylated protein. To arrive at the sequence of the whole protein tryptic and Staphylococcus protease peptides, together with chymotryptic peptides and a 2-(2-nitrophenylsulfenyl)-3-methyl-3'-bromoindolenine (BNPS-skatole) fragment were also sequenced. Comparing the amino acid sequence of thaumatin with that of the other sweet-tasting protein, monellin, we have located five sets of identical tripeptides. Since immunological cross-reactivity of thaumatin antibodies with monellin has recently been described, one or more of these tripeptides might be part of a common antibody recombination site and possibly be involved in the interaction with the sweet-taste receptor.", "contents": "The complete amino-acid sequence of the sweet protein thaumatin I. The primary structure of the sweet-tasting protein thaumatin has been elucidated. The protein consists of a single polypeptide chain of 207 residues. The sequence of the N-terminal part of the chain was determined by sequenator analysis. As the protein contains only one methionine residue, it was possible to deduce the N-terminal sequence of the C-terminal cyanogen bromide fragment by automatic sequencing of the cyanogen-bromide-cleaved, succinylated protein. To arrive at the sequence of the whole protein tryptic and Staphylococcus protease peptides, together with chymotryptic peptides and a 2-(2-nitrophenylsulfenyl)-3-methyl-3'-bromoindolenine (BNPS-skatole) fragment were also sequenced. Comparing the amino acid sequence of thaumatin with that of the other sweet-tasting protein, monellin, we have located five sets of identical tripeptides. Since immunological cross-reactivity of thaumatin antibodies with monellin has recently been described, one or more of these tripeptides might be part of a common antibody recombination site and possibly be involved in the interaction with the sweet-taste receptor.", "PMID": 456365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12165", "title": "Differential effects of two interferon-induced translational inhibitors on initiation of protein synthesis.", "content": "At least two different mechanisms for the inhibition of mRNA translation operate in extracts of interferon-treated L cells. One is mediated by an interferon-induced protein kinase which, when activated by double-stranded RNA and ATP, phosphorylates the small subunit of initiation factor eIF-2. Addition of the purified interferon-induced protein kinase to L cell extracts, strongly reduces the amount of methionyl-tRNA bound to 40-S ribosomal subunits. The second translational inhibition is due to the synthesis of (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) by interferon-induced enzyme E. The oligonucleotide in turn activates a ribonuclease F constitutively present in L cells. Addition of the purified nuclease with its oligonucleotide activator to L cell extracts produces a strong decrease in polyribosome formation and an accumulation of initiation complex. These experiments differentiate the effects of the two interferon-induced inhibitors on mRNA translation.", "contents": "Differential effects of two interferon-induced translational inhibitors on initiation of protein synthesis. At least two different mechanisms for the inhibition of mRNA translation operate in extracts of interferon-treated L cells. One is mediated by an interferon-induced protein kinase which, when activated by double-stranded RNA and ATP, phosphorylates the small subunit of initiation factor eIF-2. Addition of the purified interferon-induced protein kinase to L cell extracts, strongly reduces the amount of methionyl-tRNA bound to 40-S ribosomal subunits. The second translational inhibition is due to the synthesis of (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) by interferon-induced enzyme E. The oligonucleotide in turn activates a ribonuclease F constitutively present in L cells. Addition of the purified nuclease with its oligonucleotide activator to L cell extracts produces a strong decrease in polyribosome formation and an accumulation of initiation complex. These experiments differentiate the effects of the two interferon-induced inhibitors on mRNA translation.", "PMID": 456366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12166", "title": "The phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system of Staphylococcus aureus. Complete tyrosine assignments in the 1H nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectrum of the phosphocarrier protein HPr.", "content": "Upon nitration of the phosphocarrier protein HPr three nitrated derivatives of the protein were isolated: mononitrated HPr, dinitrated HPr and trinitrated HPr. Tryptic digestion of the derivatives leads to nitrotyrosine-containing peptides which were isolated and characterized by amino acid analysis. This resulted in the determination of the positions of the nitrated tyrosyl residues in the amino acid sequence. In mononitrated HPr only Tyr-56 was modified, in dinitrated HPr both Tyr-56 and Tyr-37 had reacted with the nitrating agent; modification of all three tyrosyl residues in trinitrated HPr required more drastic reaction conditions. The nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of the three derivatives allowed the assignments of the tyrosine resonances as follows: Tyr-A and Tyr-B with pK values of 10.5 and 11.5 were designated Tyr-56 and Tyr-37 whereas Tyr-C, whose protons are not titratable before denaturation of the protein, was assigned to Tyr-6 in the amino acid sequence. The nitration studies, together with the titration behaviour of the three tyrosines, indicate the topology of the tyrosyl residues to be as follows: Tyr-56 is located at the surface, Tyr-37 is slightly buried, Tyr-6 is deeply buried. The nitrotyrosyl derivatives retain their biological activity.", "contents": "The phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system of Staphylococcus aureus. Complete tyrosine assignments in the 1H nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectrum of the phosphocarrier protein HPr. Upon nitration of the phosphocarrier protein HPr three nitrated derivatives of the protein were isolated: mononitrated HPr, dinitrated HPr and trinitrated HPr. Tryptic digestion of the derivatives leads to nitrotyrosine-containing peptides which were isolated and characterized by amino acid analysis. This resulted in the determination of the positions of the nitrated tyrosyl residues in the amino acid sequence. In mononitrated HPr only Tyr-56 was modified, in dinitrated HPr both Tyr-56 and Tyr-37 had reacted with the nitrating agent; modification of all three tyrosyl residues in trinitrated HPr required more drastic reaction conditions. The nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of the three derivatives allowed the assignments of the tyrosine resonances as follows: Tyr-A and Tyr-B with pK values of 10.5 and 11.5 were designated Tyr-56 and Tyr-37 whereas Tyr-C, whose protons are not titratable before denaturation of the protein, was assigned to Tyr-6 in the amino acid sequence. The nitration studies, together with the titration behaviour of the three tyrosines, indicate the topology of the tyrosyl residues to be as follows: Tyr-56 is located at the surface, Tyr-37 is slightly buried, Tyr-6 is deeply buried. The nitrotyrosyl derivatives retain their biological activity.", "PMID": 456367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12167", "title": "Base crystallization and base stacking in water.", "content": "2H2O solutions of 6-methylpurine and N6,N9-dimethyladenine have been examined by neutron diffraction. Comparison of the scattering from various molar solutions of 6-methylpurine with the scattering from its crystalline precipitates indicated base stacking in solution with a separation of approximately 0.34 nm. In particular at 1.75 M the effective stacking number in 6-methylpurine, as seen by neutron diffraction, was found to be approximately nine. Attempts to observe similar scattering from N6, N9-dimethyladenine were hampered because solutions with a molarity greater than or approximately 0.02 tended to form filamentary crystallites as a function of time. An analysis of the autocatalytic reaction involved in the formation of these dendrites is given. The rate constant is found to be 2.12 +/- 0.05 M-1 h-1. By comparing the diffraction from wet and dry crystallites it is concluded that hydrophilic interactions mediate the aggregation of both bases in water.", "contents": "Base crystallization and base stacking in water. 2H2O solutions of 6-methylpurine and N6,N9-dimethyladenine have been examined by neutron diffraction. Comparison of the scattering from various molar solutions of 6-methylpurine with the scattering from its crystalline precipitates indicated base stacking in solution with a separation of approximately 0.34 nm. In particular at 1.75 M the effective stacking number in 6-methylpurine, as seen by neutron diffraction, was found to be approximately nine. Attempts to observe similar scattering from N6, N9-dimethyladenine were hampered because solutions with a molarity greater than or approximately 0.02 tended to form filamentary crystallites as a function of time. An analysis of the autocatalytic reaction involved in the formation of these dendrites is given. The rate constant is found to be 2.12 +/- 0.05 M-1 h-1. By comparing the diffraction from wet and dry crystallites it is concluded that hydrophilic interactions mediate the aggregation of both bases in water.", "PMID": 456369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12168", "title": "DNA-protein interactions in nucleosomes and in chromatin. Structural studies of chromatin stabilized by ultraviolet-light induced crosslinking.", "content": "Crosslinking induced by ultraviolet light irradiation at 254 nm has been utilized to investigate the structure of chromatin and isolated nucleosomes. The results presented here imply that the four core histones, as well as histone H1, have reactive groups within a bond length of the DNA bases. In nucleosomes depleted of H1, all of the core histones react similarly with the DNA and form crosslinks. In chromatin, the rate of crosslinking of all histones to DNA is essentially similar. Comparison of mononucleosomes, dinucleosomes and whole chromatin shows that the rate of crosslinking increases significantly with increasing number of connected nucleosomes. These differences in the rate of crosslinking are interpreted in terms of interactions between neighbouring nucleosomes on the chromatin fiber, which are absent in an isolated mononucleosome.", "contents": "DNA-protein interactions in nucleosomes and in chromatin. Structural studies of chromatin stabilized by ultraviolet-light induced crosslinking. Crosslinking induced by ultraviolet light irradiation at 254 nm has been utilized to investigate the structure of chromatin and isolated nucleosomes. The results presented here imply that the four core histones, as well as histone H1, have reactive groups within a bond length of the DNA bases. In nucleosomes depleted of H1, all of the core histones react similarly with the DNA and form crosslinks. In chromatin, the rate of crosslinking of all histones to DNA is essentially similar. Comparison of mononucleosomes, dinucleosomes and whole chromatin shows that the rate of crosslinking increases significantly with increasing number of connected nucleosomes. These differences in the rate of crosslinking are interpreted in terms of interactions between neighbouring nucleosomes on the chromatin fiber, which are absent in an isolated mononucleosome.", "PMID": 456371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12169", "title": "Helix-coil transition of the self-complementary dG-dG-dA-dA-dT-dT-dC-dC duplex.", "content": "The helix-coil transition of the octanucleotide self-complementary duplex dG-dG-dA-dA-dT-dT-dC-dC has been monitored at the Watson-Crick protons, the base and sugar nonexchangeable protons and the backbone phosphates by high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The melting transition of the octanucleotide monitored by ultraviolet absorbance spectroscopy is characterized by the thermodynamic parameters delta H degree = -216.7 kJ/mol and delta S degree (25 degrees C) = -0.632 KJ mol-1 K-1 in 0.1 M NaCl, 10 mM phosphate solution. Correlation of the transition midpoint values monitored by the ultraviolet absorbance studies at strand concentrations below 0.2 mM and by NMR studies at 5.3 mM suggest that both methods are monitoring the octanucleotide duplex-to-strand transition. The NMR spectra of the Watson-Crick ring NH protons of the octanucleotide duplex have been followed as a function of temperature. The resonance from the terminal dG.dC base pairs broadens out at room temperature while the resonances from the other base pairs broaden simultaneously with the onset of the melting transition. The nonexchangeable base and sugar H-1' protons are resolved in the duplex and strand states and shift as average peaks through the melting transition. The experimental shifts on duplex formation have been compared with calculated values based on ring-current and atomic diamagnetic anisotropy contributions for a B-DNA base-pair-overlap geometry in solution. Several nonexchangeable proton resonances broaden in the fast-exchange region during the duplex-to-strand transition and the excess widths yield a duplex dissociation rate constant for the octanucleotide of 1.9 x 10(3) s-1 at 32 degrees C (fraction of duplex = 0.86) in 0.1 M NaCl, 10 mM phosphate buffer. The 31P resonances of the seven internucleotide phosphates are distributed over 0.6 ppm in the duplex state, shift downfield during the duplex-to-strand transition and undergo additional downfield shifts during the stacked-to-unstacked strand transition with increasing temperature.", "contents": "Helix-coil transition of the self-complementary dG-dG-dA-dA-dT-dT-dC-dC duplex. The helix-coil transition of the octanucleotide self-complementary duplex dG-dG-dA-dA-dT-dT-dC-dC has been monitored at the Watson-Crick protons, the base and sugar nonexchangeable protons and the backbone phosphates by high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The melting transition of the octanucleotide monitored by ultraviolet absorbance spectroscopy is characterized by the thermodynamic parameters delta H degree = -216.7 kJ/mol and delta S degree (25 degrees C) = -0.632 KJ mol-1 K-1 in 0.1 M NaCl, 10 mM phosphate solution. Correlation of the transition midpoint values monitored by the ultraviolet absorbance studies at strand concentrations below 0.2 mM and by NMR studies at 5.3 mM suggest that both methods are monitoring the octanucleotide duplex-to-strand transition. The NMR spectra of the Watson-Crick ring NH protons of the octanucleotide duplex have been followed as a function of temperature. The resonance from the terminal dG.dC base pairs broadens out at room temperature while the resonances from the other base pairs broaden simultaneously with the onset of the melting transition. The nonexchangeable base and sugar H-1' protons are resolved in the duplex and strand states and shift as average peaks through the melting transition. The experimental shifts on duplex formation have been compared with calculated values based on ring-current and atomic diamagnetic anisotropy contributions for a B-DNA base-pair-overlap geometry in solution. Several nonexchangeable proton resonances broaden in the fast-exchange region during the duplex-to-strand transition and the excess widths yield a duplex dissociation rate constant for the octanucleotide of 1.9 x 10(3) s-1 at 32 degrees C (fraction of duplex = 0.86) in 0.1 M NaCl, 10 mM phosphate buffer. The 31P resonances of the seven internucleotide phosphates are distributed over 0.6 ppm in the duplex state, shift downfield during the duplex-to-strand transition and undergo additional downfield shifts during the stacked-to-unstacked strand transition with increasing temperature.", "PMID": 456372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12170", "title": "Identification of initiation factors and ribosome-associated phosphoproteins by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.", "content": "A two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis procedure has been used to identify initiation factors rapidly in the high-salt-wash fraction from reticulocyte ribosomes. Initiation factors are identified by relative mobility and by co-electrophoresis with purified factors. A creatine phosphate/ATP/GTP/Pi exchange system is described which has been used to maintain [gamma-32P]ATP and [gamma-32P]GTP at constant specific activity in the cell-free protein-synthesizing system. Phosphorylated proteins associated with the protein-synthesizing complex have been identified using a combination of the two procedures. The salt-wash fraction contains eight major phosphorylated proteins and a number of minor ones. Two phosphorylated proteins are observed to comigrate with two of the three subunits of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2), the initiation factor involved in binding Met-tRNAf onto the 40-S subunit and promoting dissociation of 80-S ribosomes. eIF-4B, one of the proteins involved in binding mRNA to 40-S subunits is also phosphorylated. The remainder of phosphorylated proteins in the high-salt-wash fraction are not previously characterized initiation factors and have not been identified further. Two of the six phosphoproteins associated with the salt-washed ribosomes comigrate with ribosomal proteins; one is the major phosphorylated protein in 40-S ribosomal subunits, the other is an acidic protein.", "contents": "Identification of initiation factors and ribosome-associated phosphoproteins by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis procedure has been used to identify initiation factors rapidly in the high-salt-wash fraction from reticulocyte ribosomes. Initiation factors are identified by relative mobility and by co-electrophoresis with purified factors. A creatine phosphate/ATP/GTP/Pi exchange system is described which has been used to maintain [gamma-32P]ATP and [gamma-32P]GTP at constant specific activity in the cell-free protein-synthesizing system. Phosphorylated proteins associated with the protein-synthesizing complex have been identified using a combination of the two procedures. The salt-wash fraction contains eight major phosphorylated proteins and a number of minor ones. Two phosphorylated proteins are observed to comigrate with two of the three subunits of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2), the initiation factor involved in binding Met-tRNAf onto the 40-S subunit and promoting dissociation of 80-S ribosomes. eIF-4B, one of the proteins involved in binding mRNA to 40-S subunits is also phosphorylated. The remainder of phosphorylated proteins in the high-salt-wash fraction are not previously characterized initiation factors and have not been identified further. Two of the six phosphoproteins associated with the salt-washed ribosomes comigrate with ribosomal proteins; one is the major phosphorylated protein in 40-S ribosomal subunits, the other is an acidic protein.", "PMID": 456373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12171", "title": "Quantitative fluorimetric determination of cell-surface glycoconjugates with fluorescein-substituted lectins.", "content": "Fluorescein-substituted lectins, which can be used to visualize cell surface glycoconjugates, are shown to be usable in the quantitative determination of the number of receptor sites and of their association constant. The fluorescence measurements of the fluorescein-substituted lectins released from the cell surface with the related inhibitor, give quantitative data in a large range of fluorescein-substituted lectin concentration (0.1 to 100 microgram/ml). Using fluorescein-substituted concanavalin A or [3H]acetyl-concanavalin A, it was found that baby hamster kidney cells (BHK 21, wild-type) bind 10 +/- 2 x 10(6) lectin molecules per cell with an apparent association constant of 1.8 or 1.7 x 10(6) 1 x mol-1, respectively. Using the fluoresceinyl and [3H]acetyl-substituted wheat germ agglutinin, we found 40 +/- 5 x 10(6) sites per cell with an apparent binding constant of 1 and 1.3 +/- 0.3 x 10(6) 1 x mol-1, respectively. When fluorescein-substituted succinyl wheat germ agglutinin was used instead of the unsuccinylated wheat germ agglutinin derivatives, the number of binding sites was reduced 7 times, while the binding constant was very slightly lowered. Concanavalin A derivatives gave monotonic Scatchard plots; on the opposite, wheat germ agglutinin derivatives gave biphasic Scatchard plots suggesting that wheat germ agglutinin binds to two classes of receptors.", "contents": "Quantitative fluorimetric determination of cell-surface glycoconjugates with fluorescein-substituted lectins. Fluorescein-substituted lectins, which can be used to visualize cell surface glycoconjugates, are shown to be usable in the quantitative determination of the number of receptor sites and of their association constant. The fluorescence measurements of the fluorescein-substituted lectins released from the cell surface with the related inhibitor, give quantitative data in a large range of fluorescein-substituted lectin concentration (0.1 to 100 microgram/ml). Using fluorescein-substituted concanavalin A or [3H]acetyl-concanavalin A, it was found that baby hamster kidney cells (BHK 21, wild-type) bind 10 +/- 2 x 10(6) lectin molecules per cell with an apparent association constant of 1.8 or 1.7 x 10(6) 1 x mol-1, respectively. Using the fluoresceinyl and [3H]acetyl-substituted wheat germ agglutinin, we found 40 +/- 5 x 10(6) sites per cell with an apparent binding constant of 1 and 1.3 +/- 0.3 x 10(6) 1 x mol-1, respectively. When fluorescein-substituted succinyl wheat germ agglutinin was used instead of the unsuccinylated wheat germ agglutinin derivatives, the number of binding sites was reduced 7 times, while the binding constant was very slightly lowered. Concanavalin A derivatives gave monotonic Scatchard plots; on the opposite, wheat germ agglutinin derivatives gave biphasic Scatchard plots suggesting that wheat germ agglutinin binds to two classes of receptors.", "PMID": 456374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12172", "title": "The synthesis of chloroplast high-molecular-weight ribosomal ribonucleic acid in spinach.", "content": "Illuminated suspensions of chloroplasts isolated from young spinach leaves show incorporation of [3H]uridine into several species of RNA. One such RNA species of Mr 2.7 x 10(6) shows sequence homology with both the chloroplast 23-S rRNA (Mr = 1.05 x 10(6)) and 16-S rRNA (Mr = 0.56 x 10(6)), as judged by DNA/RNA competition hybridization. Leaves labelled in vivo with [32P]orthophosphate in the presence of chloramphenicol accumulate labelled RNAs of Mr 1.28 x 10(6), 0.71/0.75 x 10(6) and 0.47 x 10(6). The 1.28 x 10(6)-Mr RNA shows 80.5% sequence homology with the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA and the 0.71/0.75 x 10(6)-Mr RNA mixture shows 76% sequence homology with the 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA. We conclude that the pathway of rRNA maturation in spinach chloroplasts is similar to that of Escherichia coli.", "contents": "The synthesis of chloroplast high-molecular-weight ribosomal ribonucleic acid in spinach. Illuminated suspensions of chloroplasts isolated from young spinach leaves show incorporation of [3H]uridine into several species of RNA. One such RNA species of Mr 2.7 x 10(6) shows sequence homology with both the chloroplast 23-S rRNA (Mr = 1.05 x 10(6)) and 16-S rRNA (Mr = 0.56 x 10(6)), as judged by DNA/RNA competition hybridization. Leaves labelled in vivo with [32P]orthophosphate in the presence of chloramphenicol accumulate labelled RNAs of Mr 1.28 x 10(6), 0.71/0.75 x 10(6) and 0.47 x 10(6). The 1.28 x 10(6)-Mr RNA shows 80.5% sequence homology with the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA and the 0.71/0.75 x 10(6)-Mr RNA mixture shows 76% sequence homology with the 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA. We conclude that the pathway of rRNA maturation in spinach chloroplasts is similar to that of Escherichia coli.", "PMID": 456375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12173", "title": "The synthesis and origin of chloroplast low-molecular-weight ribosomal ribonucleic acid in spinach.", "content": "Chloroplasts isolated from young spinach leaves incorporate [3H]uridine into RNA species which co-electrophorese with 5-S rRNA and tRNA, but show very little incorporation into 4.5-S rRNA. Chloroplast 4.5-S rRNA is labelled in vivo after a distinct lag period relative to 5-S rRNA and tRNA. The kinetics of labelling in vivo of chloroplast 5-S rRNA are similar to those of the immediate precursors to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs, whereas the kinetics of labelling of the 4.5-S rRNAare similar to those of mature 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs. Chloramphenicol inhibits the labelling of chloroplast 4.5-S rRNA in vivo, and concomitantly inhibits the processing of the immediate precursors to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs, but has little effect on the appearance of label in chloroplast 5-S rRNA. DNA/RNA hybridization using 125I-labelled RNAs suggests that chloroplast DNA contains a 2--3-fold excess of 4.5-S and 5-S rRNA genes relative to the high-molecular-weight rRNA genes. Competition hybridization experiments show that the immediate precursor to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA effectively competes with 125I-labelled 4.5-S rRNA for hybridization with chloroplast DNA, and is therefore a likely candidate for a common precursor to both the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 4.5-S rRNAs.", "contents": "The synthesis and origin of chloroplast low-molecular-weight ribosomal ribonucleic acid in spinach. Chloroplasts isolated from young spinach leaves incorporate [3H]uridine into RNA species which co-electrophorese with 5-S rRNA and tRNA, but show very little incorporation into 4.5-S rRNA. Chloroplast 4.5-S rRNA is labelled in vivo after a distinct lag period relative to 5-S rRNA and tRNA. The kinetics of labelling in vivo of chloroplast 5-S rRNA are similar to those of the immediate precursors to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs, whereas the kinetics of labelling of the 4.5-S rRNAare similar to those of mature 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs. Chloramphenicol inhibits the labelling of chloroplast 4.5-S rRNA in vivo, and concomitantly inhibits the processing of the immediate precursors to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 0.56 x 10(6)-Mr rRNAs, but has little effect on the appearance of label in chloroplast 5-S rRNA. DNA/RNA hybridization using 125I-labelled RNAs suggests that chloroplast DNA contains a 2--3-fold excess of 4.5-S and 5-S rRNA genes relative to the high-molecular-weight rRNA genes. Competition hybridization experiments show that the immediate precursor to the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr rRNA effectively competes with 125I-labelled 4.5-S rRNA for hybridization with chloroplast DNA, and is therefore a likely candidate for a common precursor to both the 1.05 x 10(6)-Mr and 4.5-S rRNAs.", "PMID": 456376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12174", "title": "RNA metabolism and membrane-bound polysomes in relation to globulin biosynthesis in cotyledons of developing field beans (Vicia faba L.).", "content": "In cotyledon cells of developing field beans the RNA content per cell does not change in the second half of developmental period 2, whereas globulin biosynthesis continues. The constant RNA content per cell results from an equilibrium between RNA synthesis and degradation. All types of RNA are synthesized until the end of globulin biosynthesis, but poly(A)-containing RNA was preferentially labelled during maximum globulin formation. During stage 2 of seed development of poly(A)-containing RNA fraction represents a discrete peak in the 12--18-S region on agarose gels and corresponds to the peak of poly(A)-containing RNA isolated from polysomes. alpha-Amanitin inhibits selectively the labelling of poly(A)-containing RNA and concomitantly globulin formation. Translation of total poly(A)-containing RNA, free and membrane-bound polysomes in a cell-free wheat germs demonstrates that the globulins are preferentially produced on membrane-bound polysomes and that poly(A)-containing RNA includes the mRNA for both vicilin and legumin.", "contents": "RNA metabolism and membrane-bound polysomes in relation to globulin biosynthesis in cotyledons of developing field beans (Vicia faba L.). In cotyledon cells of developing field beans the RNA content per cell does not change in the second half of developmental period 2, whereas globulin biosynthesis continues. The constant RNA content per cell results from an equilibrium between RNA synthesis and degradation. All types of RNA are synthesized until the end of globulin biosynthesis, but poly(A)-containing RNA was preferentially labelled during maximum globulin formation. During stage 2 of seed development of poly(A)-containing RNA fraction represents a discrete peak in the 12--18-S region on agarose gels and corresponds to the peak of poly(A)-containing RNA isolated from polysomes. alpha-Amanitin inhibits selectively the labelling of poly(A)-containing RNA and concomitantly globulin formation. Translation of total poly(A)-containing RNA, free and membrane-bound polysomes in a cell-free wheat germs demonstrates that the globulins are preferentially produced on membrane-bound polysomes and that poly(A)-containing RNA includes the mRNA for both vicilin and legumin.", "PMID": 456377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12175", "title": "Immunochemistry of Ii-active glycosphingolipids of erythrocytes.", "content": "Fractions of complex glycosphingolipids were prepared from adult, cord, and i phenotype erythrocytes by the method elaborated for the isolation of poly(glycosyl)ceramides. In contrast to poly(glycosyl)ceramides which comprise on the average 30 glycosyl units and about 5 branching points, i.e. 3,6-di-O-substituted galactopyranosyl residues, per mole of glucose, complex glycosphingolipids from cord and i erythrocytes comprise 6 and 15 glycosyl units respectively and only 0.7 branching points. The latter substances exhibited also a high i activity which was not detected in poly(glycosyl)ceramides. Erythrocyte membranes were labeled with radioactive N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) from UDP-GalNAc using a purified A-blood-group gene-specified transfered of GalNAc. It was found that electrophoretic mobilities in dodecylsulfate-gel electrophoresis of all glycoconjugates which accepted GalNAc were increased in i as compared to I membranes. We conclude that the absence of highly branched glycosphingolipids in cord and i erythrocytes as well as the reduction of apparent molecular weights of the glycoconjugates, which are substrates for A-gene-specified transferase of GalNAc, result from a single cause, that is an inadequacy of the biosynthetic process which is responsible for the formation of GlcNAc1 leads to 6Gal structures.", "contents": "Immunochemistry of Ii-active glycosphingolipids of erythrocytes. Fractions of complex glycosphingolipids were prepared from adult, cord, and i phenotype erythrocytes by the method elaborated for the isolation of poly(glycosyl)ceramides. In contrast to poly(glycosyl)ceramides which comprise on the average 30 glycosyl units and about 5 branching points, i.e. 3,6-di-O-substituted galactopyranosyl residues, per mole of glucose, complex glycosphingolipids from cord and i erythrocytes comprise 6 and 15 glycosyl units respectively and only 0.7 branching points. The latter substances exhibited also a high i activity which was not detected in poly(glycosyl)ceramides. Erythrocyte membranes were labeled with radioactive N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) from UDP-GalNAc using a purified A-blood-group gene-specified transfered of GalNAc. It was found that electrophoretic mobilities in dodecylsulfate-gel electrophoresis of all glycoconjugates which accepted GalNAc were increased in i as compared to I membranes. We conclude that the absence of highly branched glycosphingolipids in cord and i erythrocytes as well as the reduction of apparent molecular weights of the glycoconjugates, which are substrates for A-gene-specified transferase of GalNAc, result from a single cause, that is an inadequacy of the biosynthetic process which is responsible for the formation of GlcNAc1 leads to 6Gal structures.", "PMID": 456378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12176", "title": "Primary structure of the nucleic acid from the 1,4-alpha-glucan branching enzyme.", "content": "The primary structure of the nucleic acid from the branching enzyme 1,4-alpha-D-glucan: 1,4-alpha-D-glucan 6-alpha-(1,4-alpha-glucano)-transferase (2.5-S RNA) isolated from rabbit muscles has been elucidated. The polyribonucleotide consists of 31 nucleotides; the unique features of the polyribonucleotide are the unusually high content of modified nucleotides (32%) and guanine residues (40%). Apparently 2.5-S RNA belongs to a class of nucleic acids unknown up to now. It is the first time that the structure of a nucleic acid component from a ribonucleoenzyme has been defined. This work is a preprequisite for gaining insight into the intimate activating effect of the poly-ribonucleotide on the enzyme action.", "contents": "Primary structure of the nucleic acid from the 1,4-alpha-glucan branching enzyme. The primary structure of the nucleic acid from the branching enzyme 1,4-alpha-D-glucan: 1,4-alpha-D-glucan 6-alpha-(1,4-alpha-glucano)-transferase (2.5-S RNA) isolated from rabbit muscles has been elucidated. The polyribonucleotide consists of 31 nucleotides; the unique features of the polyribonucleotide are the unusually high content of modified nucleotides (32%) and guanine residues (40%). Apparently 2.5-S RNA belongs to a class of nucleic acids unknown up to now. It is the first time that the structure of a nucleic acid component from a ribonucleoenzyme has been defined. This work is a preprequisite for gaining insight into the intimate activating effect of the poly-ribonucleotide on the enzyme action.", "PMID": 456379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12177", "title": "Alterations in the processing of rat-liver ribosomal RNA caused by cycloheximide inhibition of protein synthesis.", "content": "Cycloheximide given in vivo at low doses (2--5 mg/kg body weight) causes within 30 min a complete inhibition of protein synthesis in rat liver. The labelling of nuclear proteint is also strongly inhibited. Under these conditions, the amount of nucleolar 45-S pre-rRNA and its [14C]-orotate labelling remain unaffected for at least 4 h. These results show that initially the rates of synthesis and processing of 45-S pre-rRNA are not appreciably altered. On the other hand, drastic alterations in the 45-S pre-rRNA processing pathways occur at the early stages of cycloheximide action. Formation of 18-S rRNA is abolished and that of 28S rRNA is reduced to about half the level in control rats. This dichotomy in the production of the two ribosomal particles may be correlated with a block in the formation of 41-S and 21-S pre-rRNA. Generation of 36-S and 32-S pre-rRNA is still taking place, but the rate of their processing to nucleolar 28-S rRNA is decreased, thus causing the accumulation of these two pre-rRNA species. In parallel, processing of 45-S pre-rRNA to an aberrant 39-S rRNA species is markedly enhanced. The results obtained show that the channelling of nucleolar pre-rRNA along alternative processing pathways is under stringent control by the continuous supply of critical protein(s).", "contents": "Alterations in the processing of rat-liver ribosomal RNA caused by cycloheximide inhibition of protein synthesis. Cycloheximide given in vivo at low doses (2--5 mg/kg body weight) causes within 30 min a complete inhibition of protein synthesis in rat liver. The labelling of nuclear proteint is also strongly inhibited. Under these conditions, the amount of nucleolar 45-S pre-rRNA and its [14C]-orotate labelling remain unaffected for at least 4 h. These results show that initially the rates of synthesis and processing of 45-S pre-rRNA are not appreciably altered. On the other hand, drastic alterations in the 45-S pre-rRNA processing pathways occur at the early stages of cycloheximide action. Formation of 18-S rRNA is abolished and that of 28S rRNA is reduced to about half the level in control rats. This dichotomy in the production of the two ribosomal particles may be correlated with a block in the formation of 41-S and 21-S pre-rRNA. Generation of 36-S and 32-S pre-rRNA is still taking place, but the rate of their processing to nucleolar 28-S rRNA is decreased, thus causing the accumulation of these two pre-rRNA species. In parallel, processing of 45-S pre-rRNA to an aberrant 39-S rRNA species is markedly enhanced. The results obtained show that the channelling of nucleolar pre-rRNA along alternative processing pathways is under stringent control by the continuous supply of critical protein(s).", "PMID": 456380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12178", "title": "Fluorescence depolarization studies and phase transition in human apoprotein . phospholipid complexes.", "content": "The microviscosity of unilamellar vesicles of dimyristoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylcholine and that of phosphatidylcholine . apoprotein complexes was followed by fluorescence depolarization after labeling with 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene. The transition temperature from gel-crystalline to liquid-crystalline phase in 24 degrees C for the dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine vesicles and is shifted to around 30 degrees C in the complexes between phosphatidylcholine and apoA-I, apoA-II, apoC-I, apoC-III proteins while the cooperativity of the transition is decreased. At temperatures below the transition of the phospholipid, the microviscosity of the complexes of phosphatidylcholine with apoA-I, apoA-II and apoC-I proteins is lower than that of the phosphatidylcholine, while the opposite effect is observed above 30 degrees C. The phosphatidylcholine . apoprotein complexes isolated on a Sepharose 6B column have a molecular weight around 100 000 and a phosphatidylcholine/apoprotein ratio of 2--2.6 (w/w). The microviscosity measurments at 35 degrees C performed after elution of the column enable the complex to be detected. The size and microviscosity of the apoprotein . phosphatidylcholine complex is compatible with a model where the vesicular structure has disappeared and the amino acid side chains present hydrophobic interaction with the phosphatidylcholine acyl chains.", "contents": "Fluorescence depolarization studies and phase transition in human apoprotein . phospholipid complexes. The microviscosity of unilamellar vesicles of dimyristoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylcholine and that of phosphatidylcholine . apoprotein complexes was followed by fluorescence depolarization after labeling with 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene. The transition temperature from gel-crystalline to liquid-crystalline phase in 24 degrees C for the dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine vesicles and is shifted to around 30 degrees C in the complexes between phosphatidylcholine and apoA-I, apoA-II, apoC-I, apoC-III proteins while the cooperativity of the transition is decreased. At temperatures below the transition of the phospholipid, the microviscosity of the complexes of phosphatidylcholine with apoA-I, apoA-II and apoC-I proteins is lower than that of the phosphatidylcholine, while the opposite effect is observed above 30 degrees C. The phosphatidylcholine . apoprotein complexes isolated on a Sepharose 6B column have a molecular weight around 100 000 and a phosphatidylcholine/apoprotein ratio of 2--2.6 (w/w). The microviscosity measurments at 35 degrees C performed after elution of the column enable the complex to be detected. The size and microviscosity of the apoprotein . phosphatidylcholine complex is compatible with a model where the vesicular structure has disappeared and the amino acid side chains present hydrophobic interaction with the phosphatidylcholine acyl chains.", "PMID": 456381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12179", "title": "Identification of mRNA in the slime mold Physarum polycephalum.", "content": "Using a differential extraction procedure which had previously been shown to yield one nucleic acid fraction enriched in cytoplasmic RNA and another enriched in nuclear RNA, we have been able to isolate two polyadenylated RNA populations from microplasmodia of Physarum polycephalum. The poly(A)-containing RNA from the cytoplasmic-enriched fraction accounts for approximately 1.2% of the cytoplasmic nucleic acid, has a number-average nucleotide size of 1339+/- 39 nucleotides, and has been shown, in a protein-synthesizing system in vitro, to be capable of directing the synthesis of peptides which have also been shown to be synthesized in vivo by microplasmodia. The poly(A)-containing RNA from the nuclear-enriched fraction has a number-average nucleotide size of 1533 +/- 104 nucleotides and represents a mixture of cytoplasmic and nuclear adenylated RNA molecules. Based upon these observations, we have identified the polyadenylated RNA isolated from the fraction enriched in cytoplasmic nuclei acid as Physarum poly(A)-containing messenger RNA.", "contents": "Identification of mRNA in the slime mold Physarum polycephalum. Using a differential extraction procedure which had previously been shown to yield one nucleic acid fraction enriched in cytoplasmic RNA and another enriched in nuclear RNA, we have been able to isolate two polyadenylated RNA populations from microplasmodia of Physarum polycephalum. The poly(A)-containing RNA from the cytoplasmic-enriched fraction accounts for approximately 1.2% of the cytoplasmic nucleic acid, has a number-average nucleotide size of 1339+/- 39 nucleotides, and has been shown, in a protein-synthesizing system in vitro, to be capable of directing the synthesis of peptides which have also been shown to be synthesized in vivo by microplasmodia. The poly(A)-containing RNA from the nuclear-enriched fraction has a number-average nucleotide size of 1533 +/- 104 nucleotides and represents a mixture of cytoplasmic and nuclear adenylated RNA molecules. Based upon these observations, we have identified the polyadenylated RNA isolated from the fraction enriched in cytoplasmic nuclei acid as Physarum poly(A)-containing messenger RNA.", "PMID": 456382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12180", "title": "Anomalous systemic arterial supply to the basal segments of the lung presenting with a murmur.", "content": "A murmur was discovered on routine preschool physical examination of a 5 year and 7 month-old boy. A lower lobe lesion was detected by chest X-ray. Aortography demonstrated that a large systemic artery from the descending thoracic aorta supplied the basilar segments of the left lower lobe, which had no normal pulmonary arterial supply. A clinical diagnosis of intralobar sequestration of the lung was made, and left lower lobectomy was performed.", "contents": "Anomalous systemic arterial supply to the basal segments of the lung presenting with a murmur. A murmur was discovered on routine preschool physical examination of a 5 year and 7 month-old boy. A lower lobe lesion was detected by chest X-ray. Aortography demonstrated that a large systemic artery from the descending thoracic aorta supplied the basilar segments of the left lower lobe, which had no normal pulmonary arterial supply. A clinical diagnosis of intralobar sequestration of the lung was made, and left lower lobectomy was performed.", "PMID": 456384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12181", "title": "Clinical and biochemical study of a child with the non-neuronopathic-Type B form of Niemann-Pick disease.", "content": "A child with Niemann-Pick disease type B, diagnosed at the age of two years and followed up for three years is described. Despite extensive visceral involvement--as deduced from marked hepatosplenomegaly and pulmonary infiltration--the child is in general good health and has no apparent neurologic abnormality. Biochemical studies revealed a tenfold increase of sphingomyelin content in his liver biopsy specimen and a markedly reduced sphingomyelinase activity in peripheral blood leukocytes. His parents were found to be heterozygous carriers of the disease, showing sphingomyelinase activity values intermediate between those of patient and healthy subjects. The relevant literature, concerning patients with the non-neuronopathic type B form, is reviewed.", "contents": "Clinical and biochemical study of a child with the non-neuronopathic-Type B form of Niemann-Pick disease. A child with Niemann-Pick disease type B, diagnosed at the age of two years and followed up for three years is described. Despite extensive visceral involvement--as deduced from marked hepatosplenomegaly and pulmonary infiltration--the child is in general good health and has no apparent neurologic abnormality. Biochemical studies revealed a tenfold increase of sphingomyelin content in his liver biopsy specimen and a markedly reduced sphingomyelinase activity in peripheral blood leukocytes. His parents were found to be heterozygous carriers of the disease, showing sphingomyelinase activity values intermediate between those of patient and healthy subjects. The relevant literature, concerning patients with the non-neuronopathic type B form, is reviewed.", "PMID": 456385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12182", "title": "A girl with an end-to-end fusion of two X'S.", "content": "An abnormal large chromosome was seen in the karyotype of a 3-year-old girl with features of Turner's syndrome: i.e., short stature, cubitus valgus, coarctation of aorta. With the banding technics this abnormal chromosome appears to be the result of a fusion of two X chromosomes, short arm-to-short arm. This chromosome has two regions with C-heterochromatin and is late replicating.", "contents": "A girl with an end-to-end fusion of two X'S. An abnormal large chromosome was seen in the karyotype of a 3-year-old girl with features of Turner's syndrome: i.e., short stature, cubitus valgus, coarctation of aorta. With the banding technics this abnormal chromosome appears to be the result of a fusion of two X chromosomes, short arm-to-short arm. This chromosome has two regions with C-heterochromatin and is late replicating.", "PMID": 456386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12183", "title": "Complicated optic atrophy (Bher's disease) associated with epilepsy and amino acid imbalance.", "content": "A case of Behr's disease (complicated optic atrophy) associated with epilepsy and with imbalance of the free amino acid pool in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, quite similar to that identified in patients with hereditary ataxias, is reported. The latter finding stands for a closer correlation between the two clinical entities.", "contents": "Complicated optic atrophy (Bher's disease) associated with epilepsy and amino acid imbalance. A case of Behr's disease (complicated optic atrophy) associated with epilepsy and with imbalance of the free amino acid pool in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, quite similar to that identified in patients with hereditary ataxias, is reported. The latter finding stands for a closer correlation between the two clinical entities.", "PMID": 456388} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12184", "title": "Transient hyperkinesia after a single intravenous perfusion of diphenylhydantoin. Report of a case associated with nontoxic plasma levels of diphenylhydantoin.", "content": "Transient hyperkinesia was observed in a 16-year-old epileptic and mentally retarded patient after a single intravenous perfusion of diphenylhydantoin (DPH). No clinical signs of DPH intoxication were associated with the movement disorder. Repeated plasma anticonvulsant level determinations never showed toxic concentrations of DPH. Since a few spontaneous episodes of hyperkinesia had been observed before, the DPH intravenous perfusion could have unmasked a preexisting latent movement disorder in our patient. However, neuroradiological investigations failed to demonstrate the existence of any anatomical damage of the basal ganglia, and HVA as well as 5-HIAA levels measured in the CSF with the probenecid technique were within the normal range 2 months after cessation of hyperkinesia. HVA and 5-HIAA levels have also been measured in the CSF during the period with hyperkinesia; the results are discussed with reference to previously published data concerning cerebral monoamine metabolism in drug-treated epileptic patients.", "contents": "Transient hyperkinesia after a single intravenous perfusion of diphenylhydantoin. Report of a case associated with nontoxic plasma levels of diphenylhydantoin. Transient hyperkinesia was observed in a 16-year-old epileptic and mentally retarded patient after a single intravenous perfusion of diphenylhydantoin (DPH). No clinical signs of DPH intoxication were associated with the movement disorder. Repeated plasma anticonvulsant level determinations never showed toxic concentrations of DPH. Since a few spontaneous episodes of hyperkinesia had been observed before, the DPH intravenous perfusion could have unmasked a preexisting latent movement disorder in our patient. However, neuroradiological investigations failed to demonstrate the existence of any anatomical damage of the basal ganglia, and HVA as well as 5-HIAA levels measured in the CSF with the probenecid technique were within the normal range 2 months after cessation of hyperkinesia. HVA and 5-HIAA levels have also been measured in the CSF during the period with hyperkinesia; the results are discussed with reference to previously published data concerning cerebral monoamine metabolism in drug-treated epileptic patients.", "PMID": 456389} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12185", "title": "Possible interference between migrainous and epileptic mechanisms in intercalated attacks. Case report.", "content": "The possibility that epileptic seizures and classic migraine episodes may occur in the same patient is discussed. The probable relationship between the neurophysiological mechanisms which underlie both types of attacks has not yet been agreed upon. The case of a young man who suffered from classic migraine and who presented two convulsive epileptic attacks, preceded by visual aura is described. The EEG showed an epileptogenic occipito-temporal focus which corresponded to the region of the scotoma origin. A possible connection between scotoma in migraine and epileptic discharge is discussed. It is proposed that spreading depression, as the basis of the migraine prodomata, was preceded by a moment of intense neuronal excitation which changed the epileptic intercritical activity into a critical one.", "contents": "Possible interference between migrainous and epileptic mechanisms in intercalated attacks. Case report. The possibility that epileptic seizures and classic migraine episodes may occur in the same patient is discussed. The probable relationship between the neurophysiological mechanisms which underlie both types of attacks has not yet been agreed upon. The case of a young man who suffered from classic migraine and who presented two convulsive epileptic attacks, preceded by visual aura is described. The EEG showed an epileptogenic occipito-temporal focus which corresponded to the region of the scotoma origin. A possible connection between scotoma in migraine and epileptic discharge is discussed. It is proposed that spreading depression, as the basis of the migraine prodomata, was preceded by a moment of intense neuronal excitation which changed the epileptic intercritical activity into a critical one.", "PMID": 456390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12186", "title": "Variation of immunoglobulin G and total protein concentrations during lumbar cerebrospinal fluid collection.", "content": "In successive lumbar samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), each consisting of 5 ml, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and total protein were determined. Variation was studied by comparing the values in the initial sample with values in succeeding samples. In 13 out of 17 patients, IgG was reduced in sample 2. There was no reduction in the following samples. The concentration of IgG in sample 2 was below 50% of the concentration in sample 1 in 2 patients and below 70% in 9 patients. IgG was also reduced if the concentration in each sample was given as percent of the total protein concentration. The total protein concentration was not significantly reduced during collection of 25 ml of CSF. IgG was increased in sample 2 in 3 out of the 4 patients with neurological diseases since childhood. In 1 patient there was a considerable rise in the total protein concentration after collection of the first 5 ml, without a corresponding rise of IgG concentration. In clinical practice, the portion to which the CSF sample belongs should be noted, and comparison of values from various patients should be made between equivalent samples.", "contents": "Variation of immunoglobulin G and total protein concentrations during lumbar cerebrospinal fluid collection. In successive lumbar samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), each consisting of 5 ml, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and total protein were determined. Variation was studied by comparing the values in the initial sample with values in succeeding samples. In 13 out of 17 patients, IgG was reduced in sample 2. There was no reduction in the following samples. The concentration of IgG in sample 2 was below 50% of the concentration in sample 1 in 2 patients and below 70% in 9 patients. IgG was also reduced if the concentration in each sample was given as percent of the total protein concentration. The total protein concentration was not significantly reduced during collection of 25 ml of CSF. IgG was increased in sample 2 in 3 out of the 4 patients with neurological diseases since childhood. In 1 patient there was a considerable rise in the total protein concentration after collection of the first 5 ml, without a corresponding rise of IgG concentration. In clinical practice, the portion to which the CSF sample belongs should be noted, and comparison of values from various patients should be made between equivalent samples.", "PMID": 456391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12187", "title": "Detection and genetic counselling of subclinical and carrier states in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.", "content": "23 potential carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and 20 of their apparently healthy brothers were studied for evidence of any subclinical form of the disease. The results of the study confirmed that it was possible to confirm the diagnosis of a 'high genetic risk' carrier by integrating the results of clinical studies, estimation of basal serum CPK, steroid-CPK test, EMG and ECG observations. Similarly, the subclinical state of DMD could also be detected with certainty in 10% of the brothers of DMD carriers. The results may be applied for genetic counselling to bring down the incidence of the disease in the community.", "contents": "Detection and genetic counselling of subclinical and carrier states in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. 23 potential carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and 20 of their apparently healthy brothers were studied for evidence of any subclinical form of the disease. The results of the study confirmed that it was possible to confirm the diagnosis of a 'high genetic risk' carrier by integrating the results of clinical studies, estimation of basal serum CPK, steroid-CPK test, EMG and ECG observations. Similarly, the subclinical state of DMD could also be detected with certainty in 10% of the brothers of DMD carriers. The results may be applied for genetic counselling to bring down the incidence of the disease in the community.", "PMID": 456392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12188", "title": "Two cases of choreatic syndrome caused by polycythemia vera.", "content": "Two patients with choreatic syndromes caused by polycythemia vera recovered after treatment of the polycythemia by only two venesections: this proves that the syndrome is due to reversible alterations. Investigations of the cerebral circulation in one of the patients showed that blood flow was lowest in the grey matter at the basal region of the brain: this suggests that the alterations might mainly occur there. However, investigation of erythrocyte rheology, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, serum concentrations of caeruloplasmin and serotonin, and urinary excretion of epinephrine, norepinephrine and vanillylmandelic acid gave normal results in both patients. There are therefore no indications as to the possible pathophysiology of these alterations. There are now 24 cases reported, including our 2 patients, which suggests that the association of these two diseases may not be so rare as supposed.", "contents": "Two cases of choreatic syndrome caused by polycythemia vera. Two patients with choreatic syndromes caused by polycythemia vera recovered after treatment of the polycythemia by only two venesections: this proves that the syndrome is due to reversible alterations. Investigations of the cerebral circulation in one of the patients showed that blood flow was lowest in the grey matter at the basal region of the brain: this suggests that the alterations might mainly occur there. However, investigation of erythrocyte rheology, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, serum concentrations of caeruloplasmin and serotonin, and urinary excretion of epinephrine, norepinephrine and vanillylmandelic acid gave normal results in both patients. There are therefore no indications as to the possible pathophysiology of these alterations. There are now 24 cases reported, including our 2 patients, which suggests that the association of these two diseases may not be so rare as supposed.", "PMID": 456393} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12189", "title": "Effects of verapamil on automaticity and conduction with particular reference to tachyphylaxis.", "content": "Verapamil delivered via the sinus node artery exerted a dose-related, exclusively negative chronotropic action at all concentrations studied. Perfusion through the AV node artery during AV junctional rhythm also caused a dose-related negative chronotropic response, but the concentrations required to depress this pacemaker were ten times higher than those required to depress sinus node automaticity. Verapamil administered into the AV node artery during sinus rhythm impaired AV conduction. His bundle electrograms demonstrated that depressed A-V conduction was exclusively located at the A-H level. In 5 out of 10 dogs verapamil (5 to 10 mg) delivered into the septal artery caused an abrupt onset of ventricular fibrillation without premonitory dysrhythmias. Verapamil (except at very high concentrations) did not alter the responsiveness of the sinus node and the AV junction to acetylcholine or norepinephrine, whether administered selectively into the sinus node artery or the AV node artery or released by neural stimulation. Serial injections of verapamil were associated with tachyphylaxis for the direct chronotropic and dromotropic properties of the drug.", "contents": "Effects of verapamil on automaticity and conduction with particular reference to tachyphylaxis. Verapamil delivered via the sinus node artery exerted a dose-related, exclusively negative chronotropic action at all concentrations studied. Perfusion through the AV node artery during AV junctional rhythm also caused a dose-related negative chronotropic response, but the concentrations required to depress this pacemaker were ten times higher than those required to depress sinus node automaticity. Verapamil administered into the AV node artery during sinus rhythm impaired AV conduction. His bundle electrograms demonstrated that depressed A-V conduction was exclusively located at the A-H level. In 5 out of 10 dogs verapamil (5 to 10 mg) delivered into the septal artery caused an abrupt onset of ventricular fibrillation without premonitory dysrhythmias. Verapamil (except at very high concentrations) did not alter the responsiveness of the sinus node and the AV junction to acetylcholine or norepinephrine, whether administered selectively into the sinus node artery or the AV node artery or released by neural stimulation. Serial injections of verapamil were associated with tachyphylaxis for the direct chronotropic and dromotropic properties of the drug.", "PMID": 456394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12190", "title": "Programmed simultaneous biventricular stimulation in man, with special reference to its use in the evaluation of intraventricular reentry.", "content": "Programmed stimulation was alternatively performed exclusively from the right ventricular endocardium, exclusively from the left ventricular epicardium and simultaneously from both ventricles in 8 patients who did not have coronary artery disease or bundle branch block. A specially constructed QRS triggered pacemaker, (with a refractory period of 260 msec and an escape interval of 800 msec) connected to the right ventricular and left ventricular electrodes, was used to perform simultaneous biventricular stimulation. The latter had no untoward effects and was not more dangerous than exclusive right ventricular, or exclusive left ventricular, stimulation. In 3 patients, pacemaker-induced repetitive firing occurred during right and left ventricular pacing. Persistence of this phenomenon (in these 3 patients) during simultaneous biventricular stimulation is in keeping either with a microreentry occurring in the vicinity of the electrodes or with a macroreentry involving the bundle branches. A more precise evaluation of the reentry circuit requires that left ventricular pacing be performed from an endocardial (rather than from an epicardial) site. This study suggests that the pulse generator described in the present communication can be used to produce simultaneous atrial and ventricular activation (or pacing) by connecting one pole to an atrial electrode and the other pole to a ventricular electrode. This modality of stimulation can be effective in preventing or abolishing some types of reciprocating atrioventricular tachycardias.", "contents": "Programmed simultaneous biventricular stimulation in man, with special reference to its use in the evaluation of intraventricular reentry. Programmed stimulation was alternatively performed exclusively from the right ventricular endocardium, exclusively from the left ventricular epicardium and simultaneously from both ventricles in 8 patients who did not have coronary artery disease or bundle branch block. A specially constructed QRS triggered pacemaker, (with a refractory period of 260 msec and an escape interval of 800 msec) connected to the right ventricular and left ventricular electrodes, was used to perform simultaneous biventricular stimulation. The latter had no untoward effects and was not more dangerous than exclusive right ventricular, or exclusive left ventricular, stimulation. In 3 patients, pacemaker-induced repetitive firing occurred during right and left ventricular pacing. Persistence of this phenomenon (in these 3 patients) during simultaneous biventricular stimulation is in keeping either with a microreentry occurring in the vicinity of the electrodes or with a macroreentry involving the bundle branches. A more precise evaluation of the reentry circuit requires that left ventricular pacing be performed from an endocardial (rather than from an epicardial) site. This study suggests that the pulse generator described in the present communication can be used to produce simultaneous atrial and ventricular activation (or pacing) by connecting one pole to an atrial electrode and the other pole to a ventricular electrode. This modality of stimulation can be effective in preventing or abolishing some types of reciprocating atrioventricular tachycardias.", "PMID": 456395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12191", "title": "Blood cadmium and plasma zinc measurements in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "Blood cadmium and plasma zinc were measured in a series of 47 patients admitted for myocardial infarction (MI) and in 37 control subjects divided into 3 groups. Certainly increased blood cadmium values, for the MI patients, were found in 33%. The mean blood cadmium value of the MI series was significantly (P less than 0.001), but not invariably, higher against the control subjects. The difference between the zinc values of the series was studied in 35 MI patients with raised serum enzyme activity. In MI patients, the mean plasma zinc content was significantly (0.001 less than P less than 0.01) lower than in healthy controls. Of the enzymes, the highest positive correlation was found between the ratio of blood cadmium to plasma zinc and the GOT activity. Of the ratio, the MI patients had values in excess of the controls range in 43%, and values within the limits of the healthy controls in 40%. Therefore, the rise in the ratio is of limited value for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction in an individual patient.", "contents": "Blood cadmium and plasma zinc measurements in acute myocardial infarction. Blood cadmium and plasma zinc were measured in a series of 47 patients admitted for myocardial infarction (MI) and in 37 control subjects divided into 3 groups. Certainly increased blood cadmium values, for the MI patients, were found in 33%. The mean blood cadmium value of the MI series was significantly (P less than 0.001), but not invariably, higher against the control subjects. The difference between the zinc values of the series was studied in 35 MI patients with raised serum enzyme activity. In MI patients, the mean plasma zinc content was significantly (0.001 less than P less than 0.01) lower than in healthy controls. Of the enzymes, the highest positive correlation was found between the ratio of blood cadmium to plasma zinc and the GOT activity. Of the ratio, the MI patients had values in excess of the controls range in 43%, and values within the limits of the healthy controls in 40%. Therefore, the rise in the ratio is of limited value for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction in an individual patient.", "PMID": 456396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12192", "title": "Serial echocardiography during the first 3 mth of life in normal neonates.", "content": "Echocardiography was performed in 13 normal neonates on the first day of life and repeated after 1 wk, 1 mth and 3 mth. Measurements were made of cardiac chamber size and wall thickness, mitral, tricuspid and pulmonary valve motion, right and left ventricular systolic time intervals, and of fractional left ventricular shortening (%deltaS) and mean velocity of circumferential fibre shortening (mean Vcf). During the study there was a relative decrease in right ventricular cavity size and wall thickness with an increase in the pulmonary valve EF slope, indicating a fall in pulmonary artery pressure with regression of the right ventricle. Left ventricular size and thickness increased while LVET became longer, possibly the consequence of an increasing left ventricular afterload. There was not a significant change in %deltaS and mean Vcf during the study period. The greatest change from right to left ventricular preponderance occurred between 1 wk and 1 mth of life and was accompanied by changes in the mean frontal QRS axis of the electrocardiogram. The study shows that significant changes occur in the echocardiogram during the first 3 mth of life; neonatal echocardiograms should be interpreted not only in relation to the baby's weight, but also to its age.", "contents": "Serial echocardiography during the first 3 mth of life in normal neonates. Echocardiography was performed in 13 normal neonates on the first day of life and repeated after 1 wk, 1 mth and 3 mth. Measurements were made of cardiac chamber size and wall thickness, mitral, tricuspid and pulmonary valve motion, right and left ventricular systolic time intervals, and of fractional left ventricular shortening (%deltaS) and mean velocity of circumferential fibre shortening (mean Vcf). During the study there was a relative decrease in right ventricular cavity size and wall thickness with an increase in the pulmonary valve EF slope, indicating a fall in pulmonary artery pressure with regression of the right ventricle. Left ventricular size and thickness increased while LVET became longer, possibly the consequence of an increasing left ventricular afterload. There was not a significant change in %deltaS and mean Vcf during the study period. The greatest change from right to left ventricular preponderance occurred between 1 wk and 1 mth of life and was accompanied by changes in the mean frontal QRS axis of the electrocardiogram. The study shows that significant changes occur in the echocardiogram during the first 3 mth of life; neonatal echocardiograms should be interpreted not only in relation to the baby's weight, but also to its age.", "PMID": 456397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12193", "title": "Syncope and aortic stenosis: significance of conduction abnormalities.", "content": "22 patients with syncope and significant aortic stenosis underwent electrophysiological evaluation in addition to the hemodynamic study. Abnormalities of impulse formation or conduction were present in 12 patients. 6 patients demonstrated HV times greater than or equal to 55 msec. There was no correlation between the aortic valve gradient and the HV interval, between the enddiastolic volume of the ventricle and the HV time and between aortic valve calcification and the HV time. Syncopal attacks were corrected with aortic valve replacement even in patients with prolonged HV times.", "contents": "Syncope and aortic stenosis: significance of conduction abnormalities. 22 patients with syncope and significant aortic stenosis underwent electrophysiological evaluation in addition to the hemodynamic study. Abnormalities of impulse formation or conduction were present in 12 patients. 6 patients demonstrated HV times greater than or equal to 55 msec. There was no correlation between the aortic valve gradient and the HV interval, between the enddiastolic volume of the ventricle and the HV time and between aortic valve calcification and the HV time. Syncopal attacks were corrected with aortic valve replacement even in patients with prolonged HV times.", "PMID": 456398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12194", "title": "Oral absorption of cimetidine and its clearance in patients with renal failure.", "content": "The plasma concentration curve after a single oral dose of cimetidine 200 mg was followed in 27 patients with varying degrees of chronic renal failure (creatinine clearance 1--52 ml/min) and in 46 patients with normal serum creatinine. Compared to the latter patients, the plasma concentration was higher and the elimination rate was slower in all uraemic subjects, including a group with moderate renal impairment. The preliminary recommendations of dosage for patients with a creatinine clearance below 5 ml/min, and for patients on regular haemodialysis, is cimetidine 200 mg every 12 h, 5-15 ml/min 200 mg every 12 to 8 h, 15-30 ml/min 200 mg every 8 h and 30-52 ml/min 200 mg every 6 h.", "contents": "Oral absorption of cimetidine and its clearance in patients with renal failure. The plasma concentration curve after a single oral dose of cimetidine 200 mg was followed in 27 patients with varying degrees of chronic renal failure (creatinine clearance 1--52 ml/min) and in 46 patients with normal serum creatinine. Compared to the latter patients, the plasma concentration was higher and the elimination rate was slower in all uraemic subjects, including a group with moderate renal impairment. The preliminary recommendations of dosage for patients with a creatinine clearance below 5 ml/min, and for patients on regular haemodialysis, is cimetidine 200 mg every 12 h, 5-15 ml/min 200 mg every 12 to 8 h, 15-30 ml/min 200 mg every 8 h and 30-52 ml/min 200 mg every 6 h.", "PMID": 456399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12195", "title": "Human pharmacokinetics of nitrazepam: effect of age and diseases.", "content": "Plasma concentrations of nitrazepam were measured by gas-liquid chromatography in: young healthy volunteers, in geriatric and psychiatric patients and in epileptic children. The disposition of nitrazepam was described in terms of a two-compartment open model. After a single oral dose of nitrazepam 5 mg the most prominent differences between the experimental groups were in the beta-phase half-life mean 29 h in the young volunteers and 40 h in geriatric patients , and in the apparent volume of distribution during the beta-phase of 2.4 vs 4.8 1/kg. Total plasma clearance and the average steady state concentration in both groups were equal. The plasma level rose at a rate proportional to the beta-phase half-life, and so, they were achieved more rapidly in the young than in the old subjects (3.5 vs 7.5 d). No change in steady-state level or in the half-life of nitrazepam were found during long term treatment, which indicates lack of enzyme induction or inhibition. In 95% of the epileptic children with a good to fair clinical response, the plasma concentration of nitrazepam was 40-180 ng/ml (mean 114 ng/ml). As all of the patients were on combined antiepileptic therapy, no attempt was made to correlate plasma level with therapeutic response.", "contents": "Human pharmacokinetics of nitrazepam: effect of age and diseases. Plasma concentrations of nitrazepam were measured by gas-liquid chromatography in: young healthy volunteers, in geriatric and psychiatric patients and in epileptic children. The disposition of nitrazepam was described in terms of a two-compartment open model. After a single oral dose of nitrazepam 5 mg the most prominent differences between the experimental groups were in the beta-phase half-life mean 29 h in the young volunteers and 40 h in geriatric patients , and in the apparent volume of distribution during the beta-phase of 2.4 vs 4.8 1/kg. Total plasma clearance and the average steady state concentration in both groups were equal. The plasma level rose at a rate proportional to the beta-phase half-life, and so, they were achieved more rapidly in the young than in the old subjects (3.5 vs 7.5 d). No change in steady-state level or in the half-life of nitrazepam were found during long term treatment, which indicates lack of enzyme induction or inhibition. In 95% of the epileptic children with a good to fair clinical response, the plasma concentration of nitrazepam was 40-180 ng/ml (mean 114 ng/ml). As all of the patients were on combined antiepileptic therapy, no attempt was made to correlate plasma level with therapeutic response.", "PMID": 456400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12196", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of quinidine related to plasma protein binding in man.", "content": "The disposition and plasma protein binding of quinidine after intravenous administration were studied in 13 healthy subjects. Plasma protein binding, expressed as the fraction of quinidine unbound ranged from 0.134--0.303 (mean 0.221). Elimination rate constant (beta) varied from 0.071 to 0.146 h-1 (mean 0.113), and apparent volume of distribution (Vbeta) varied from 1.39--3.20 1 . kg-1 beta (mean 2.27). Total body clearance was 2.32--6.49 ml min-1 . kg-1. There was a positive linear correlation between the plasma fraction of unbound quinidine and both V beta (r = 0.885, p less than 0.01) and total body clearance (r = 0.668, p less than 0.05). No significant correlation existed between the fraction of unbound quinidine in plasma and the elimination rate constant. The results show that both the apparent volume of distribution and total body clearance of quinidine are proportional to the unbound fraction in plasma. This implies that the total plasma concentration of quinidine at steady state will change with alterations in plasma binding, whilst the concentration of unbound compound and its elimination rate will remain unaffected.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of quinidine related to plasma protein binding in man. The disposition and plasma protein binding of quinidine after intravenous administration were studied in 13 healthy subjects. Plasma protein binding, expressed as the fraction of quinidine unbound ranged from 0.134--0.303 (mean 0.221). Elimination rate constant (beta) varied from 0.071 to 0.146 h-1 (mean 0.113), and apparent volume of distribution (Vbeta) varied from 1.39--3.20 1 . kg-1 beta (mean 2.27). Total body clearance was 2.32--6.49 ml min-1 . kg-1. There was a positive linear correlation between the plasma fraction of unbound quinidine and both V beta (r = 0.885, p less than 0.01) and total body clearance (r = 0.668, p less than 0.05). No significant correlation existed between the fraction of unbound quinidine in plasma and the elimination rate constant. The results show that both the apparent volume of distribution and total body clearance of quinidine are proportional to the unbound fraction in plasma. This implies that the total plasma concentration of quinidine at steady state will change with alterations in plasma binding, whilst the concentration of unbound compound and its elimination rate will remain unaffected.", "PMID": 456401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12197", "title": "Pharmacokinetic, bioavailability and pharmacodynamic study of indobufen (K 3920), an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, after a single dose in man.", "content": "Six healthy volunteers received single iv and oral doses of 2-[p-(1-oxo-2-isoindolinyl)phenyl] butyric acid 100 mg (indobufen; K 3920), an inhibitor of platelet aggregation. Plasma levels and urinary excretion of the drug were determined by GLC. Collagen-induced platelet aggregation was assessed turbidimetrically at various intervals after administration. The plasma half-life of the drug was 7--8 h and more than 70% of the administered dose was recovered within 48 h in urine, as unchanged drug and as the glucuronide of indobufen. After oral administration of tablets of two different formulations, the drug was completely absorbed, but one formulation showed faster absorption. The maximal inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation was observed 1 to 4 h after iv administration, and it had decreased by 8h. After tablets, peak effect and the time of the peak were similar, but activity was significantly prolonged, in accordance with the higher plasma levels found at 8 h. The data suggest that the effect of indobufen on platelets is reversible, and that for this drug platelets behave as a compartment that slowly equilibrates with plasma.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetic, bioavailability and pharmacodynamic study of indobufen (K 3920), an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, after a single dose in man. Six healthy volunteers received single iv and oral doses of 2-[p-(1-oxo-2-isoindolinyl)phenyl] butyric acid 100 mg (indobufen; K 3920), an inhibitor of platelet aggregation. Plasma levels and urinary excretion of the drug were determined by GLC. Collagen-induced platelet aggregation was assessed turbidimetrically at various intervals after administration. The plasma half-life of the drug was 7--8 h and more than 70% of the administered dose was recovered within 48 h in urine, as unchanged drug and as the glucuronide of indobufen. After oral administration of tablets of two different formulations, the drug was completely absorbed, but one formulation showed faster absorption. The maximal inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation was observed 1 to 4 h after iv administration, and it had decreased by 8h. After tablets, peak effect and the time of the peak were similar, but activity was significantly prolonged, in accordance with the higher plasma levels found at 8 h. The data suggest that the effect of indobufen on platelets is reversible, and that for this drug platelets behave as a compartment that slowly equilibrates with plasma.", "PMID": 456403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12198", "title": "Indobufen (K 3920), a new inhibitor of platelet aggregation: effect of food on bioavailability, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study during repeated oral administration to man.", "content": "The effect of food on bioavailability of indobufen tablets was investigated in 6 healthy volunteers. Subsequently, the same subjects took 100 mg b.i.d. for 7 days. Plasma levels and urinary excretion of indobufen were determined by GLC. Platelet aggregation induced by several concentrations of adrenaline was determined turbidimetrically at various times after the first and last doses. The absorption of indobufen tablets was not substantially impaired by the presence of food in the GI tract, although peak plasma levels and AUCs were slightly reduced after food. Pharmacokinetic analysis of plasma and urinary levels of indobufen did not indicate any change in drug disposition after repeated dosing. Adrenaline-induced platelet aggregation was markedly inhibited for up to 12 h after the first dose and the intensity and duration of this effect did not change after repeated administration. A twice-daily dosing appears suitable for clinical trials.", "contents": "Indobufen (K 3920), a new inhibitor of platelet aggregation: effect of food on bioavailability, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study during repeated oral administration to man. The effect of food on bioavailability of indobufen tablets was investigated in 6 healthy volunteers. Subsequently, the same subjects took 100 mg b.i.d. for 7 days. Plasma levels and urinary excretion of indobufen were determined by GLC. Platelet aggregation induced by several concentrations of adrenaline was determined turbidimetrically at various times after the first and last doses. The absorption of indobufen tablets was not substantially impaired by the presence of food in the GI tract, although peak plasma levels and AUCs were slightly reduced after food. Pharmacokinetic analysis of plasma and urinary levels of indobufen did not indicate any change in drug disposition after repeated dosing. Adrenaline-induced platelet aggregation was markedly inhibited for up to 12 h after the first dose and the intensity and duration of this effect did not change after repeated administration. A twice-daily dosing appears suitable for clinical trials.", "PMID": 456404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12199", "title": "Inhibition of platelet uptake of serotonin in plasma from patients treated with clomipramine and amitriptyline.", "content": "The inhibition of serotonin uptake by platelets has been measured in blood from 20 patients on amitriptyline (50--225 mg daily), 14 patients on clomipramine (25--200 mg daily), and in an untreated group of 21 depressed patients. A complete kinetic analysis was carried out in each patient. Using the increase in the kinetic parameter Km as a measure of uptake inhibition, there was high correlation between the daily dose and inhibition within each drug group, clomipramine being about 10 times more potent than amitriptyline. The inhibition did not vary with age, sex, duration of treatment (up to 3 years), or concomitant use of moderate doses of benzodiazepines, neuroleptics or lithium. In the amitriptyline group the inhibition was significantly smaller in smokers than in non-smokers. The kinetic parameter Vmax was essentially unchanged in the amitriptyline group, and was markedly reduced in the clomipramine group, but without any correlation with dose. The mixed competitive-noncompetitive effect of clomipramine confirms previous in vitro findings.", "contents": "Inhibition of platelet uptake of serotonin in plasma from patients treated with clomipramine and amitriptyline. The inhibition of serotonin uptake by platelets has been measured in blood from 20 patients on amitriptyline (50--225 mg daily), 14 patients on clomipramine (25--200 mg daily), and in an untreated group of 21 depressed patients. A complete kinetic analysis was carried out in each patient. Using the increase in the kinetic parameter Km as a measure of uptake inhibition, there was high correlation between the daily dose and inhibition within each drug group, clomipramine being about 10 times more potent than amitriptyline. The inhibition did not vary with age, sex, duration of treatment (up to 3 years), or concomitant use of moderate doses of benzodiazepines, neuroleptics or lithium. In the amitriptyline group the inhibition was significantly smaller in smokers than in non-smokers. The kinetic parameter Vmax was essentially unchanged in the amitriptyline group, and was markedly reduced in the clomipramine group, but without any correlation with dose. The mixed competitive-noncompetitive effect of clomipramine confirms previous in vitro findings.", "PMID": 456405} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12200", "title": "The protein binding of methotrexate by the serum of normal subjects.", "content": "The protein binding of methotrexate by serum from eight normal volunteers was assessed by continuous ultrafiltration at pH 7.4 and 37 degrees C. Methotrexate concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay and the data analysed by the method of Scatchard. The major binding protein was albumin which bound 87.3% of the drug in serum. Analysis of the Scatchard plots indicated two distinct groups of binding sites. Class I was found to have 0.16 +/- 0.05 (S D) binding sites with an intrinsic association constant of 71.15 +/- 35.98 (S D) X 10(4) M-1: Class II had 2.01 +/- 0.93 (S D) binding sites and and affinity of 0.18 +/- 0.15 X 10(4) M-1. No great change in the percentage of methotrexate bound occurred until the total concentration of the drug exceeded 50 muMol 1-1.", "contents": "The protein binding of methotrexate by the serum of normal subjects. The protein binding of methotrexate by serum from eight normal volunteers was assessed by continuous ultrafiltration at pH 7.4 and 37 degrees C. Methotrexate concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay and the data analysed by the method of Scatchard. The major binding protein was albumin which bound 87.3% of the drug in serum. Analysis of the Scatchard plots indicated two distinct groups of binding sites. Class I was found to have 0.16 +/- 0.05 (S D) binding sites with an intrinsic association constant of 71.15 +/- 35.98 (S D) X 10(4) M-1: Class II had 2.01 +/- 0.93 (S D) binding sites and and affinity of 0.18 +/- 0.15 X 10(4) M-1. No great change in the percentage of methotrexate bound occurred until the total concentration of the drug exceeded 50 muMol 1-1.", "PMID": 456408} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12201", "title": "Convulsant, anticonvulsant and anaesthetic barbiturates. 5-Ethyl-5-(3'-methyl-but-2'-enyl)-barbituric acid and related compounds.", "content": "Barbiturates derived by minor structural changes to the butenyl sidechain of the convulsant 5-ethyl-5-(3'-methyl-but-2'-enyl)-barbituric acid are almost devoid of convulsant activity, but all have anaesthetic and anticonvulsant effects. Anticonvulsant activity is also observed in the convulsant barbiturate. Increased lipophilic character does not increase anaesthetic potency, only speed of onset, and anticonvulsant activity is reduced in the more lipophilic compounds. The stereochemistry at the 3'-position of the sidechain is vitally important to convulsant activity, and also influences anticonvulsant potency.", "contents": "Convulsant, anticonvulsant and anaesthetic barbiturates. 5-Ethyl-5-(3'-methyl-but-2'-enyl)-barbituric acid and related compounds. Barbiturates derived by minor structural changes to the butenyl sidechain of the convulsant 5-ethyl-5-(3'-methyl-but-2'-enyl)-barbituric acid are almost devoid of convulsant activity, but all have anaesthetic and anticonvulsant effects. Anticonvulsant activity is also observed in the convulsant barbiturate. Increased lipophilic character does not increase anaesthetic potency, only speed of onset, and anticonvulsant activity is reduced in the more lipophilic compounds. The stereochemistry at the 3'-position of the sidechain is vitally important to convulsant activity, and also influences anticonvulsant potency.", "PMID": 456410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12202", "title": "Effect of morphine on the accumulation of DOPA after decarboxylase inhibition in the rat.", "content": "Acute systemic administration of morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.) to rats increased in vivo tyrosine hydroxylation in the striatum measured as the accumulation of DOPA after decarboxylase inhibition. DOPA accumulation reached a maximum 30-60 min after morphine. The morphine antagonist naloxone (1, 10 or 100 mg/kg s.c.) did not significantly after DOPA accumulation. However, naloxone completely antagonized the effect of morphine. The DA agonist apomorphine decreased and the DA antagonist haloperidol increased DOPA accumulation. The effect of apomorphine (0.05 mg/kg) was counteracted by morphine. Naloxone did not significantly change the accumulation of DOPA after apomorphine or after haloperidol. In rats treated with gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) or with reserpine DOPA accumulation was not altered by treatment with morphine or naloxone. However, the inhibiting effect of apomorphine (0.5 mg/kg) on the accumulation of DOPA in rats treated with reserpine was weakly counteracted by morphine (0.5 mg/kg) on the accumulation of DOPA in rats treated with reserpine was weakly counteracted by morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.). Since the effects of morphine on the apomorphine-induced inhibition of DOPA accumulation were antagonized by naloxone, we suggest that the effects on striatal DOPA accumulation produced by morphine were mediated via opioid receptors and not directly via DA receptors.", "contents": "Effect of morphine on the accumulation of DOPA after decarboxylase inhibition in the rat. Acute systemic administration of morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.) to rats increased in vivo tyrosine hydroxylation in the striatum measured as the accumulation of DOPA after decarboxylase inhibition. DOPA accumulation reached a maximum 30-60 min after morphine. The morphine antagonist naloxone (1, 10 or 100 mg/kg s.c.) did not significantly after DOPA accumulation. However, naloxone completely antagonized the effect of morphine. The DA agonist apomorphine decreased and the DA antagonist haloperidol increased DOPA accumulation. The effect of apomorphine (0.05 mg/kg) was counteracted by morphine. Naloxone did not significantly change the accumulation of DOPA after apomorphine or after haloperidol. In rats treated with gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) or with reserpine DOPA accumulation was not altered by treatment with morphine or naloxone. However, the inhibiting effect of apomorphine (0.5 mg/kg) on the accumulation of DOPA in rats treated with reserpine was weakly counteracted by morphine (0.5 mg/kg) on the accumulation of DOPA in rats treated with reserpine was weakly counteracted by morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.). Since the effects of morphine on the apomorphine-induced inhibition of DOPA accumulation were antagonized by naloxone, we suggest that the effects on striatal DOPA accumulation produced by morphine were mediated via opioid receptors and not directly via DA receptors.", "PMID": 456411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12203", "title": "Similar binding of 3H-ADTN and 3H-apomorphine to calf brain dopamine receptors.", "content": "The binding of 3H(+/-)-ADTN (of high specific activity; 7.6 Ci/mmole) to homogenates of calf striatum was investigated. The dissociation constant (KD) for the specific, saturable binding of 3H-(+/-)-ADTN was 1 nM and the density of specific sites was 100 fmoles/mg protein. The IC50 values (nM concentrations inhibiting specific binding by 50%) were 0.9 for (+/-)-N-propyl-norapomorphine, 3.0 for dopamine, 7 for (--)-adrenaline, 60 for (--)-noradrenaline and 4000 for isoproterenol, a series of potencies compatible with properties for a dopaminergic site. The (+)-enantiomer of ADTN was 10 times more potent than (--)-ADTN in competing for 3H-(+/-)-ADTN, while the (--)-enantiomer of 5-OH-dipropyl-ATN was 40 times more potent than the (+)-isomer. The IC50 values for various agonists against 3H-(+/-)-ADTN were similar to those against 3H-apomorphine or 3H-dopamine in the calf striatum. A comparison of these 3H-(+/-)-ADTN data to those for 3H-spiperone suggests that the two 3H-ligands label different receptor sites.", "contents": "Similar binding of 3H-ADTN and 3H-apomorphine to calf brain dopamine receptors. The binding of 3H(+/-)-ADTN (of high specific activity; 7.6 Ci/mmole) to homogenates of calf striatum was investigated. The dissociation constant (KD) for the specific, saturable binding of 3H-(+/-)-ADTN was 1 nM and the density of specific sites was 100 fmoles/mg protein. The IC50 values (nM concentrations inhibiting specific binding by 50%) were 0.9 for (+/-)-N-propyl-norapomorphine, 3.0 for dopamine, 7 for (--)-adrenaline, 60 for (--)-noradrenaline and 4000 for isoproterenol, a series of potencies compatible with properties for a dopaminergic site. The (+)-enantiomer of ADTN was 10 times more potent than (--)-ADTN in competing for 3H-(+/-)-ADTN, while the (--)-enantiomer of 5-OH-dipropyl-ATN was 40 times more potent than the (+)-isomer. The IC50 values for various agonists against 3H-(+/-)-ADTN were similar to those against 3H-apomorphine or 3H-dopamine in the calf striatum. A comparison of these 3H-(+/-)-ADTN data to those for 3H-spiperone suggests that the two 3H-ligands label different receptor sites.", "PMID": 456412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12204", "title": "Electrophysiological effects of desipramine on guinea pig papillary muscles.", "content": "The effects of desipramine (DMI) in concentrations between 1 x 10(-7) M and 1 x 10(-4) M on various electrophysiological parameters were evaluated in ventricular papillary muscles of guinea pig. At concentrations less than 5 x 10(-5) M, DMI produced a significant shortening in the action potential duration (APD) measured at both 50% and 100% of repolarization. At 1 x 10(-4) M, the terminal portion of repolarization was so prolonged that the total APD was not significantly different from control values. DMI (greater than 1 X 10(-5) M) did not change the resting potential but significantly, decreased the overshoot potential, the amplitude, and the maximum rate of rise of phase O depolarization (Vmax) and shifted the membrane responsiveness and membrane reactivation curves downward and to the right. The effective refractory period (ERP) was shortened or lengthened, the effect being dependent on the concentration, but always made the ERP long relative to APD. DMI, (1 X 10(-5) M and 5 x 10(-5) M), attenuated and abolished the spontaneous activity and the Ca-mediated action potentials induced in ventricular muscle fibers. The mechanisms responsible for DMI's in vivo arrhythmogenic or antiarrhythmic effects are discussed. In terms of changes in ion conductance most effects can be explained by a reduction in sodium and calcium conductance.", "contents": "Electrophysiological effects of desipramine on guinea pig papillary muscles. The effects of desipramine (DMI) in concentrations between 1 x 10(-7) M and 1 x 10(-4) M on various electrophysiological parameters were evaluated in ventricular papillary muscles of guinea pig. At concentrations less than 5 x 10(-5) M, DMI produced a significant shortening in the action potential duration (APD) measured at both 50% and 100% of repolarization. At 1 x 10(-4) M, the terminal portion of repolarization was so prolonged that the total APD was not significantly different from control values. DMI (greater than 1 X 10(-5) M) did not change the resting potential but significantly, decreased the overshoot potential, the amplitude, and the maximum rate of rise of phase O depolarization (Vmax) and shifted the membrane responsiveness and membrane reactivation curves downward and to the right. The effective refractory period (ERP) was shortened or lengthened, the effect being dependent on the concentration, but always made the ERP long relative to APD. DMI, (1 X 10(-5) M and 5 x 10(-5) M), attenuated and abolished the spontaneous activity and the Ca-mediated action potentials induced in ventricular muscle fibers. The mechanisms responsible for DMI's in vivo arrhythmogenic or antiarrhythmic effects are discussed. In terms of changes in ion conductance most effects can be explained by a reduction in sodium and calcium conductance.", "PMID": 456414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12205", "title": "Effects of loperamide on the guinea pig taenia coli.", "content": "The effects of an antidiarrhoeal agent, loperamide, were studied using isolated guinea pig taenia coli. Loperamide in concentrations ranging from 10(-7) M inhibited the cholinergic, contractile responses induced by electrical transmural stimulation, nicotine and serotonin, and the nonadrenergic, relaxing responses induced by electrical transmural stimulation and nicotine. However, the adrenergic response to perivascular nerve stimulation was not affected by these concentrations. The inhibitory effects of loperamide were not reversed by washing with a drug-free solution. Morphine (10(-6 M to 10(-5) M) also inhibited both cholinergic and nonadrenergic responses, but the effect was reversible. Naloxone (1o(-6) M) attenuated the inhibitory effects of both drugs. Unlike morphine, loperamide in concentrations higher than 5 x 10(-6) M relaxed the strips and reduced the contractile response to acetylcholine noncompetitively, and these effects were not blocked by naloxone. These results suggest that loperamide at low concentrations acts selectively on the opiate receptors located in both cholinergic and nonadrenergic nerves and at higher concentrations also acts directly on smooth muscle thus producing relaxation of the intestinal tone.", "contents": "Effects of loperamide on the guinea pig taenia coli. The effects of an antidiarrhoeal agent, loperamide, were studied using isolated guinea pig taenia coli. Loperamide in concentrations ranging from 10(-7) M inhibited the cholinergic, contractile responses induced by electrical transmural stimulation, nicotine and serotonin, and the nonadrenergic, relaxing responses induced by electrical transmural stimulation and nicotine. However, the adrenergic response to perivascular nerve stimulation was not affected by these concentrations. The inhibitory effects of loperamide were not reversed by washing with a drug-free solution. Morphine (10(-6 M to 10(-5) M) also inhibited both cholinergic and nonadrenergic responses, but the effect was reversible. Naloxone (1o(-6) M) attenuated the inhibitory effects of both drugs. Unlike morphine, loperamide in concentrations higher than 5 x 10(-6) M relaxed the strips and reduced the contractile response to acetylcholine noncompetitively, and these effects were not blocked by naloxone. These results suggest that loperamide at low concentrations acts selectively on the opiate receptors located in both cholinergic and nonadrenergic nerves and at higher concentrations also acts directly on smooth muscle thus producing relaxation of the intestinal tone.", "PMID": 456415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12206", "title": "Influence of temperature on the sensitivity of the adrenoceptors in the isolated atria of guinea pigs and rats.", "content": "The influence of the bath temperature on the responsiveness to sympathomimetic amines was studied with isolated guinea pig and rat atria. In electrically driven guinea pig left atria, the dose-response curve for the positive inotropic effect of isoproterenol (ISO) was shifted to the left by lowering the temperature from 36 to 24 degrees C. The positive inotropic effect of phenylephrine (PHE) in lower concentrations was attenuated by lowering the temperature. Phentolamine markedly inhibited the PHE response at 36 and 32 degrees C, whereas it produced no inhibition at 24 degrees C. Similar changes were observed with rat left atria. In guinea pig left atria, propranolol inhibited the response to PHE more effectively at 24 degrees C than 32 degrees C. With guinea pig and rat atria the dose--response curve for the positive inotropic effect of PHE in the presence of phentolamine was shifted to the left by lowering the temperature. The results suggest that lowering the temperature of the bath solution diminished the positive inotropic effect of PHE mediated by alpha-adrenoceptors and potentiated that mediated by beta-adrenoceptors.", "contents": "Influence of temperature on the sensitivity of the adrenoceptors in the isolated atria of guinea pigs and rats. The influence of the bath temperature on the responsiveness to sympathomimetic amines was studied with isolated guinea pig and rat atria. In electrically driven guinea pig left atria, the dose-response curve for the positive inotropic effect of isoproterenol (ISO) was shifted to the left by lowering the temperature from 36 to 24 degrees C. The positive inotropic effect of phenylephrine (PHE) in lower concentrations was attenuated by lowering the temperature. Phentolamine markedly inhibited the PHE response at 36 and 32 degrees C, whereas it produced no inhibition at 24 degrees C. Similar changes were observed with rat left atria. In guinea pig left atria, propranolol inhibited the response to PHE more effectively at 24 degrees C than 32 degrees C. With guinea pig and rat atria the dose--response curve for the positive inotropic effect of PHE in the presence of phentolamine was shifted to the left by lowering the temperature. The results suggest that lowering the temperature of the bath solution diminished the positive inotropic effect of PHE mediated by alpha-adrenoceptors and potentiated that mediated by beta-adrenoceptors.", "PMID": 456416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12207", "title": "Terbutaline and adrenaline inhibit leakage of fluid and protein in guinea-pig lung.", "content": "The effect of terbutaline (0.3 mg/kg s.c.) and adrenaline (0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg s.c.) on histamine--aerosol-induced increase in lung weight and dye content was studied in conscious guinea pigs, previously given Evans blue dye. Both drugs prevented the effects of histamine. It is concluded that terbutaline and adrenaline have a pronounced anti-permeability effect in guinea-pig lungs inhibiting the histamine-induced microvascular efflux of fluid and protein.", "contents": "Terbutaline and adrenaline inhibit leakage of fluid and protein in guinea-pig lung. The effect of terbutaline (0.3 mg/kg s.c.) and adrenaline (0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg s.c.) on histamine--aerosol-induced increase in lung weight and dye content was studied in conscious guinea pigs, previously given Evans blue dye. Both drugs prevented the effects of histamine. It is concluded that terbutaline and adrenaline have a pronounced anti-permeability effect in guinea-pig lungs inhibiting the histamine-induced microvascular efflux of fluid and protein.", "PMID": 456417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12208", "title": "Effect of intragastric acid on pepsinogen secretion in the rat.", "content": "When the osmolarity of intragastric instillates was constant (200 mosmole/l) the changes in their hydrogen ion concentrations (maximally from 0.01 to 100 mM) did not significantly affect pepsinogen secretion in anaesthetised rats. Solutions of 100 mM HCl, 100 mM NaCl and 150 mM sucrose all produced a similar stimulation of pepsinogen secretion. The results do not support the view that the gastric mucosa contains receptors sensitive to hydrogen ions regulating pepsinogen secretion under physiological conditions.", "contents": "Effect of intragastric acid on pepsinogen secretion in the rat. When the osmolarity of intragastric instillates was constant (200 mosmole/l) the changes in their hydrogen ion concentrations (maximally from 0.01 to 100 mM) did not significantly affect pepsinogen secretion in anaesthetised rats. Solutions of 100 mM HCl, 100 mM NaCl and 150 mM sucrose all produced a similar stimulation of pepsinogen secretion. The results do not support the view that the gastric mucosa contains receptors sensitive to hydrogen ions regulating pepsinogen secretion under physiological conditions.", "PMID": 456418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12209", "title": "Lack of effect of levallorphan on analgesia induced by intraventricular application of porcine calcitonin in mice.", "content": "Intraventricular administration to mice porcine calcitonin (10 U/kg) as well as of morphine (3 microgram/kg) elevated the threshold pressure of stimuli applied to the base of the tail as assessed by squeaking, struggling or biting, all of which were regarded as manifestations of pain sensation in the animals. Pretreatment with an opiate antagonist, levallorphan (30 mg/kg i.p.) showed no influence upon the analgesic effect of calcitonin, though it completely antagonized the effect of morphine. The results suggested that a peptide hormone, calcitonin, exerted its analgesic action in a manner distinct from the narcotic analgesic.", "contents": "Lack of effect of levallorphan on analgesia induced by intraventricular application of porcine calcitonin in mice. Intraventricular administration to mice porcine calcitonin (10 U/kg) as well as of morphine (3 microgram/kg) elevated the threshold pressure of stimuli applied to the base of the tail as assessed by squeaking, struggling or biting, all of which were regarded as manifestations of pain sensation in the animals. Pretreatment with an opiate antagonist, levallorphan (30 mg/kg i.p.) showed no influence upon the analgesic effect of calcitonin, though it completely antagonized the effect of morphine. The results suggested that a peptide hormone, calcitonin, exerted its analgesic action in a manner distinct from the narcotic analgesic.", "PMID": 456419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12210", "title": "3H-Spiroperidol binding to dopamine receptors in rat striatal membranes: influence of loxapine and its hydroxylated metabolites.", "content": "The effects of loxapine and its hydroxylated metabolites 7-hydroxyloxapine and 8-hydroxyloxapine on 3H-spiroperidol binding to rat striatal membranes were investigated. Whereas 7-hydroxyloxapine and loxapine displayed strong affinities for 3H-spiroperidol binding sites, 8-hydroxyloxapine was essentially inactive. The potency of 7-hydroxyloxapine to displace 3H-spiroperidol is 1.5 times and 8 times those of haloperidol and chlorpromazine, respectively. These results suggest that the combined effects of loxapine and 7-hydroxyloxapine on the postsynaptic dopamine receptors in the brain may explain the clinical efficacy of loxapine in the treatment of schizophrenia.", "contents": "3H-Spiroperidol binding to dopamine receptors in rat striatal membranes: influence of loxapine and its hydroxylated metabolites. The effects of loxapine and its hydroxylated metabolites 7-hydroxyloxapine and 8-hydroxyloxapine on 3H-spiroperidol binding to rat striatal membranes were investigated. Whereas 7-hydroxyloxapine and loxapine displayed strong affinities for 3H-spiroperidol binding sites, 8-hydroxyloxapine was essentially inactive. The potency of 7-hydroxyloxapine to displace 3H-spiroperidol is 1.5 times and 8 times those of haloperidol and chlorpromazine, respectively. These results suggest that the combined effects of loxapine and 7-hydroxyloxapine on the postsynaptic dopamine receptors in the brain may explain the clinical efficacy of loxapine in the treatment of schizophrenia.", "PMID": 456420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12211", "title": "The effects of levodopa on plasma glucose in two strains of rat.", "content": "The effects of levodopa on plasma glucose were examined in two strains of rats. In fasted Wistar rats levodopa produced a dose-dependent hyperglycaemic response which was augmented by pretreatment with nialamide. This response in nialamide-treated rats was prevented by pretreatment with phentolamine and converted to a hypoglycaemic response. Phentolamine increased the plasma concentration of immunoreactive insulin (IRI). In phentolamine-pretreated rats levodopa produced a further marked increase in the plasma IRI concentration. It is suggested that the prevention of levodopa hyperglycaemia by phentolamine is due to the marked increase in the plasma IRI concentration produced by pretreatment with phentolamine. Moreover the fall in the plasma glucose concentration produced by levodopa in phentolamine-pretreated rats is likely to be due, at least in part, to the additional increase in the plasma IRI concentration produced by levodopa under these conditions. In contrast, in fasted Sprague-Dawley rats pretreated with nialamide, levodopa produced either no effect on plasma glucose, or in larger doses, a marked hypoglycaemic effect followed by death. This hypoglycaemic effect was accompanied by a decrease in the plasma IRI concentration.", "contents": "The effects of levodopa on plasma glucose in two strains of rat. The effects of levodopa on plasma glucose were examined in two strains of rats. In fasted Wistar rats levodopa produced a dose-dependent hyperglycaemic response which was augmented by pretreatment with nialamide. This response in nialamide-treated rats was prevented by pretreatment with phentolamine and converted to a hypoglycaemic response. Phentolamine increased the plasma concentration of immunoreactive insulin (IRI). In phentolamine-pretreated rats levodopa produced a further marked increase in the plasma IRI concentration. It is suggested that the prevention of levodopa hyperglycaemia by phentolamine is due to the marked increase in the plasma IRI concentration produced by pretreatment with phentolamine. Moreover the fall in the plasma glucose concentration produced by levodopa in phentolamine-pretreated rats is likely to be due, at least in part, to the additional increase in the plasma IRI concentration produced by levodopa under these conditions. In contrast, in fasted Sprague-Dawley rats pretreated with nialamide, levodopa produced either no effect on plasma glucose, or in larger doses, a marked hypoglycaemic effect followed by death. This hypoglycaemic effect was accompanied by a decrease in the plasma IRI concentration.", "PMID": 456422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12212", "title": "Alteration of GABA metabolism in mammalian brain by l-alpha-amino-beta-chloropropionic acid hydroxamide and related compounds.", "content": "The administration of L-alpha-amino-beta-chloropropionic acid hydroxamide (L-ACPH) to mice brought about an inhibition in GABA-T activity in the brain of the animals, a significant inhibition occurring with dosage levels as low as 0.25 mmol/kg. Minimum levels of GABA-T activity were reached 3 h after administration of the drug. Brain glutamic acid decarboxylase, DOPA decarboxylase and aspartate aminotransferase activities were not altered by the L-ACPH but alanine aminotransferase activity was totally inhibited. Slight changes in structure caused great changes in the potency of the drugs. For example, the elongation of the L-ACPH structure by one carbon, or a change in the configuration of the amino group from L- to D-, caused a significant decrease in GABA inhibition. The chloro and hydroxamide groups were necessary for inhibitory activity. The administration of L-ACPH to mice delayed the onset of drug induced seizures but had a less noticeable effect against maximal electroshock. The addition of L-ACPH to crude extracts from brain, or to preparations of semipurified GABA-T, also inhibited GABA-T activity. Again the development of the inhibition was time-dependent. Possible mechanisms of action with respect to L-ACPH induced inhibition of GABA-T activity are discussed in the light of the data presented.", "contents": "Alteration of GABA metabolism in mammalian brain by l-alpha-amino-beta-chloropropionic acid hydroxamide and related compounds. The administration of L-alpha-amino-beta-chloropropionic acid hydroxamide (L-ACPH) to mice brought about an inhibition in GABA-T activity in the brain of the animals, a significant inhibition occurring with dosage levels as low as 0.25 mmol/kg. Minimum levels of GABA-T activity were reached 3 h after administration of the drug. Brain glutamic acid decarboxylase, DOPA decarboxylase and aspartate aminotransferase activities were not altered by the L-ACPH but alanine aminotransferase activity was totally inhibited. Slight changes in structure caused great changes in the potency of the drugs. For example, the elongation of the L-ACPH structure by one carbon, or a change in the configuration of the amino group from L- to D-, caused a significant decrease in GABA inhibition. The chloro and hydroxamide groups were necessary for inhibitory activity. The administration of L-ACPH to mice delayed the onset of drug induced seizures but had a less noticeable effect against maximal electroshock. The addition of L-ACPH to crude extracts from brain, or to preparations of semipurified GABA-T, also inhibited GABA-T activity. Again the development of the inhibition was time-dependent. Possible mechanisms of action with respect to L-ACPH induced inhibition of GABA-T activity are discussed in the light of the data presented.", "PMID": 456423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12213", "title": "Effect of 6-hydroxydopamine on blood pressure and heart rate responses to intracisternal clonidine in conscious rabbits.", "content": "The effects of intracisternal injection (i.c.i.) of clonidine (1 microgram kg-1) on blood pressure and heart rate were studied in conscious rabbits with an implanted catheter in the cisterna magna. Each animal was studied under control conditions and 7 days after i.c.i. of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) (1 microgram kg-1; n = 10) or ascorbic acid vehicle (n = 6). In the control experiments blood pressure and heart rate began to fall 1--2 min after i.c.i. of clonidine, with maximum falls at 10--20 min averaging 18 +/- 2 mmHg and 45 +/- 8 b/min and almost complete recovery by 90 min. After vehicle pretreatment neither response was significantly altered. After 6-OHDA the early component of the bradycardia was abolished and only a late fall in heart rate developed 30 min after i.c.i. clonidine. The magnitude of the hypotension was unaffected but the onset was slightly delayed, probably owing to the abolition of the bradycardia. The dose of 6-OHDA reduced spinal cord catecholamines to about 20% of the level observed after vehicle. Central catecholaminergic pathways are thus important in the early predominantly vagal component of the clonidine induced bradycardia, but play little role in the hypotensive response.", "contents": "Effect of 6-hydroxydopamine on blood pressure and heart rate responses to intracisternal clonidine in conscious rabbits. The effects of intracisternal injection (i.c.i.) of clonidine (1 microgram kg-1) on blood pressure and heart rate were studied in conscious rabbits with an implanted catheter in the cisterna magna. Each animal was studied under control conditions and 7 days after i.c.i. of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) (1 microgram kg-1; n = 10) or ascorbic acid vehicle (n = 6). In the control experiments blood pressure and heart rate began to fall 1--2 min after i.c.i. of clonidine, with maximum falls at 10--20 min averaging 18 +/- 2 mmHg and 45 +/- 8 b/min and almost complete recovery by 90 min. After vehicle pretreatment neither response was significantly altered. After 6-OHDA the early component of the bradycardia was abolished and only a late fall in heart rate developed 30 min after i.c.i. clonidine. The magnitude of the hypotension was unaffected but the onset was slightly delayed, probably owing to the abolition of the bradycardia. The dose of 6-OHDA reduced spinal cord catecholamines to about 20% of the level observed after vehicle. Central catecholaminergic pathways are thus important in the early predominantly vagal component of the clonidine induced bradycardia, but play little role in the hypotensive response.", "PMID": 456424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12214", "title": "Influence of histamine on the serotonergic system of rat brain.", "content": "Both histamine and 4-methylhistamine, after intraventricular injection into normal rats, reduced the levels of serotonin and increased those of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid in hypothalamus; after injection into tranylcypromine-treated rats, head twitches were induced which were blocked by antiserotonin agents. 2-Pyridylethylamine, an agonist of histamine H1 receptors, neither influenced serotonin level in hypothalamus nor evoked behavioural changes. It is concluded that injected histamine may release serotonin from the hypothalamus and that this produces the behavioural changes.", "contents": "Influence of histamine on the serotonergic system of rat brain. Both histamine and 4-methylhistamine, after intraventricular injection into normal rats, reduced the levels of serotonin and increased those of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid in hypothalamus; after injection into tranylcypromine-treated rats, head twitches were induced which were blocked by antiserotonin agents. 2-Pyridylethylamine, an agonist of histamine H1 receptors, neither influenced serotonin level in hypothalamus nor evoked behavioural changes. It is concluded that injected histamine may release serotonin from the hypothalamus and that this produces the behavioural changes.", "PMID": 456425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12215", "title": "Topical clonidine produces mydriasis by a central nervous system action.", "content": "One drop of clonidine solution (0.125, 0.25 or 0.5%) was administered topically to one eye in cats anesthetized with pentobarbital in which the vagosympathetic nerves had been sectioned. Clonidine caused a simultaneous dose-related mydriasis in both eyes along with a decrease in heart rate. The peak effects were observed in about 20--30 min. Topical administration of clonidine (0.5%) produced no effect on the parasympathectomized, eserinized iris but did dilate the opposite pupil. Epinephrine (0.1--30 microgram, i.a.) produced equal pupillary dilation in both eyes. In addition, topical clonidine caused a dramatic decrease in postganglionic ciliary nerve activity. All of the effects of clonidine were antagonized by yohimbine (0.5 mg/kg, i.v.). These results demonstrate that topical administration of clonidine causes my driasis in the cat and that this effect is mediated totally by means of CNS inhibition of parasympathetic tone to the iris.", "contents": "Topical clonidine produces mydriasis by a central nervous system action. One drop of clonidine solution (0.125, 0.25 or 0.5%) was administered topically to one eye in cats anesthetized with pentobarbital in which the vagosympathetic nerves had been sectioned. Clonidine caused a simultaneous dose-related mydriasis in both eyes along with a decrease in heart rate. The peak effects were observed in about 20--30 min. Topical administration of clonidine (0.5%) produced no effect on the parasympathectomized, eserinized iris but did dilate the opposite pupil. Epinephrine (0.1--30 microgram, i.a.) produced equal pupillary dilation in both eyes. In addition, topical clonidine caused a dramatic decrease in postganglionic ciliary nerve activity. All of the effects of clonidine were antagonized by yohimbine (0.5 mg/kg, i.v.). These results demonstrate that topical administration of clonidine causes my driasis in the cat and that this effect is mediated totally by means of CNS inhibition of parasympathetic tone to the iris.", "PMID": 456427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12216", "title": "Mianserin potentiates responses to acetylcholine in the rat anococcygeus muscle.", "content": "In the rat anococcygeus muscle, mianserin (1 and 10 muM) increased the magnitude of the maximal contractile responses to acetylcholine and carbamylcholine without affecting the maximal responses to (--)-noradrenaline. The potentiating effect of mianserin on responses to acetylcholine was maintained in the presence of 5muM phentolamine, following 6-hydroxy dopamine incubation of the tissues (1 mM for 3h) and in the presence of 1 muM nortriptyline. It is suggested that mianserin increases the sensitivity to acetylcholine by an action at the level of, or distal to, the cholinergic receptor.", "contents": "Mianserin potentiates responses to acetylcholine in the rat anococcygeus muscle. In the rat anococcygeus muscle, mianserin (1 and 10 muM) increased the magnitude of the maximal contractile responses to acetylcholine and carbamylcholine without affecting the maximal responses to (--)-noradrenaline. The potentiating effect of mianserin on responses to acetylcholine was maintained in the presence of 5muM phentolamine, following 6-hydroxy dopamine incubation of the tissues (1 mM for 3h) and in the presence of 1 muM nortriptyline. It is suggested that mianserin increases the sensitivity to acetylcholine by an action at the level of, or distal to, the cholinergic receptor.", "PMID": 456428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12217", "title": "Brain distribution of propranolol in the rat.", "content": "The distribution and kinetics of D,L-propranolol in rat brain were examined after an intravenous injection of the drug. Measurements in brain areas and blood were performed by means of a sensitive and specific gas liquid chromatographic method. The disappearance rate in cortical areas paralleled that in blood. However D,L-propranolol decreased at a slower rate in hypothalamic and medullary nuclei. Since propranolol is believed to have central hypotensive effects, its retention by certain central nuclei involved in blood pressure regulation is of interest.", "contents": "Brain distribution of propranolol in the rat. The distribution and kinetics of D,L-propranolol in rat brain were examined after an intravenous injection of the drug. Measurements in brain areas and blood were performed by means of a sensitive and specific gas liquid chromatographic method. The disappearance rate in cortical areas paralleled that in blood. However D,L-propranolol decreased at a slower rate in hypothalamic and medullary nuclei. Since propranolol is believed to have central hypotensive effects, its retention by certain central nuclei involved in blood pressure regulation is of interest.", "PMID": 456429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12218", "title": "Cat phrenic nucleus architecture as revealed by horseradish peroxidase mapping.", "content": "Cat phrenic motoneurons, labeled by intradiaphragmatic injection of horseradish peroxidase, formed a tight cluster in the most ventral portion of the ventral horn in lamina IX of the lower cervical cord. Cell counts were symmetrically distributed for 17 to 21 mm along the longitudinal axis of the cord with a unimodal peak at the junction of segments C5 and C6. The phrenic nucleus was bilaterally organized on either side of the cord with anatomical symmetry and in no case was there evidence for the crossing of phrenic axons in the cord. Assessment of cellular geometry and intercellular relationships demonstrated that phrenic cell diameters approximated a normal distribution with a single peak at 26 mum while longitudinal cell lengths average 76 mum. Cells of different size were mixed randomly at all levels of the nucleus. The minimum distance between cells was about 10 mum and the maximum cell packing density approached 2 cells per 10(6) mum3. The results confirm the location of the cat phrenic nucleus, extend the knowledge of phrenic motoneuronal geometry, and provide an anatomical basis for the understanding of recruitment and synchronization phenomena within the phrenic nucleus.", "contents": "Cat phrenic nucleus architecture as revealed by horseradish peroxidase mapping. Cat phrenic motoneurons, labeled by intradiaphragmatic injection of horseradish peroxidase, formed a tight cluster in the most ventral portion of the ventral horn in lamina IX of the lower cervical cord. Cell counts were symmetrically distributed for 17 to 21 mm along the longitudinal axis of the cord with a unimodal peak at the junction of segments C5 and C6. The phrenic nucleus was bilaterally organized on either side of the cord with anatomical symmetry and in no case was there evidence for the crossing of phrenic axons in the cord. Assessment of cellular geometry and intercellular relationships demonstrated that phrenic cell diameters approximated a normal distribution with a single peak at 26 mum while longitudinal cell lengths average 76 mum. Cells of different size were mixed randomly at all levels of the nucleus. The minimum distance between cells was about 10 mum and the maximum cell packing density approached 2 cells per 10(6) mum3. The results confirm the location of the cat phrenic nucleus, extend the knowledge of phrenic motoneuronal geometry, and provide an anatomical basis for the understanding of recruitment and synchronization phenomena within the phrenic nucleus.", "PMID": 456448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12219", "title": "Effects of inertial load and velocity on the braking process of voluntary limb movements.", "content": "The aim of this study has been to identify, in humans, the braking process underlying voluntary forearm movements performed at various velocities and amplitudes and against differential inertial loads. The procedure used to estimate the parameters of the braking process involved kinematic analysis of the movement and measurement of alpha-motoneural input to flexor and extensor muscles by recording electromyographic (EMG) activity. We have shown that when the agonist force does not exceed the passive viscoelastic tension developed by the extensor and flexor muscles, the movement can be braked by the viscoelastic forces alone. In contrast, above this force threshold, it was found that the motor output in agonist and antagonist muscles consists of well defined bursts of EMG activity, first in agonist then in antagonist muscles. The timing of these two bursts (duration of the agonist activity and onset of the antagonist activity) are clearly correlated with the value of the peak velocity. For the same peak velocity, the addition of inertial loads increase the excitation level of both agonist and antagonist muscles but does not change the timing of the EMG bursts. The discussion of these results focuses on the concept of \"unit of movement\" organized to reduce the large number of possible patterns of activation of the muscles acting on the same joint.", "contents": "Effects of inertial load and velocity on the braking process of voluntary limb movements. The aim of this study has been to identify, in humans, the braking process underlying voluntary forearm movements performed at various velocities and amplitudes and against differential inertial loads. The procedure used to estimate the parameters of the braking process involved kinematic analysis of the movement and measurement of alpha-motoneural input to flexor and extensor muscles by recording electromyographic (EMG) activity. We have shown that when the agonist force does not exceed the passive viscoelastic tension developed by the extensor and flexor muscles, the movement can be braked by the viscoelastic forces alone. In contrast, above this force threshold, it was found that the motor output in agonist and antagonist muscles consists of well defined bursts of EMG activity, first in agonist then in antagonist muscles. The timing of these two bursts (duration of the agonist activity and onset of the antagonist activity) are clearly correlated with the value of the peak velocity. For the same peak velocity, the addition of inertial loads increase the excitation level of both agonist and antagonist muscles but does not change the timing of the EMG bursts. The discussion of these results focuses on the concept of \"unit of movement\" organized to reduce the large number of possible patterns of activation of the muscles acting on the same joint.", "PMID": 456449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12220", "title": "Collicular function in human vision.", "content": "Threshold elevation in the periphery of the visual field as a consequence of repetitive stimulation can be abolished by stimulating a mirror-symmetric position in the contralateral visual half-field. A patient suffering from a congenital malformation of the right superior colliculus did not exhibit threshold elevation when stimulated repeatedly in the left visual field. Stimulation in the right visual half-field resulted in the usually observed threshold elevation, but stimulating a mirror-symmetric position in the left visual half-field did not abolish threshold elevation in the right half-field. These observations suggest that: (a) threshold elevation probably occurs as a consequence of collicular adaptation and (b) the mirror-symmetrically organized interhemispheric interaction is mediated at the collicular level.", "contents": "Collicular function in human vision. Threshold elevation in the periphery of the visual field as a consequence of repetitive stimulation can be abolished by stimulating a mirror-symmetric position in the contralateral visual half-field. A patient suffering from a congenital malformation of the right superior colliculus did not exhibit threshold elevation when stimulated repeatedly in the left visual field. Stimulation in the right visual half-field resulted in the usually observed threshold elevation, but stimulating a mirror-symmetric position in the left visual half-field did not abolish threshold elevation in the right half-field. These observations suggest that: (a) threshold elevation probably occurs as a consequence of collicular adaptation and (b) the mirror-symmetrically organized interhemispheric interaction is mediated at the collicular level.", "PMID": 456450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12221", "title": "A correlation of receptive field properties with conduction velocity of cells in the rat's retino-geniculo-cortical pathway.", "content": "1. The receptive field properties and responses to electrical stimulation of 126 P-cells recorded from the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) were studied in the hooded rat. 2. Eighty-five cells had a concentric (Kuffler, 1953) receptive field organisation (46 off-centre on-surround; 39 on-centre off-surround). Of the remaining cells 29 had co-extensive on/off excitatory discharge regions, nine had on-centres with suppressive surrounds and two cells gave on-responses but had no suppressive surround. One cell was identified as suppressed-by-contrast. 3. On the basis of the battery of tests developed for the identification of cell types in the cat's retina and LGNd, 35 of the cells with a Kuffler-type receptive field organisation were identified as Y-like. The majority of the remaining cells, both concentric and others, reminded us of the different subclasses of W-cells of the cat. Nine concentric cells in most of the tests exhibited X-like properties. 4. All of the Y-like cells were driven by relatively fast conducting retinal ganglion cell axons, comprising the t1 conduction velocity group. The majority of the remaining cells were driven by slower axons comprising t2 or t3 conduction velocity groups. 5. Thus, in the rat, as in other mammalian species studied so far, there is a correlation between the conduction velocity groups in the retino-geniculo-cortical pathway and the functional groups based on the cells' receptive field properties. There seem to be functional equivalents of the cat's Y- and W-cell classes but evidence for a distinct X-like class of cells is lacking.", "contents": "A correlation of receptive field properties with conduction velocity of cells in the rat's retino-geniculo-cortical pathway. 1. The receptive field properties and responses to electrical stimulation of 126 P-cells recorded from the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) were studied in the hooded rat. 2. Eighty-five cells had a concentric (Kuffler, 1953) receptive field organisation (46 off-centre on-surround; 39 on-centre off-surround). Of the remaining cells 29 had co-extensive on/off excitatory discharge regions, nine had on-centres with suppressive surrounds and two cells gave on-responses but had no suppressive surround. One cell was identified as suppressed-by-contrast. 3. On the basis of the battery of tests developed for the identification of cell types in the cat's retina and LGNd, 35 of the cells with a Kuffler-type receptive field organisation were identified as Y-like. The majority of the remaining cells, both concentric and others, reminded us of the different subclasses of W-cells of the cat. Nine concentric cells in most of the tests exhibited X-like properties. 4. All of the Y-like cells were driven by relatively fast conducting retinal ganglion cell axons, comprising the t1 conduction velocity group. The majority of the remaining cells were driven by slower axons comprising t2 or t3 conduction velocity groups. 5. Thus, in the rat, as in other mammalian species studied so far, there is a correlation between the conduction velocity groups in the retino-geniculo-cortical pathway and the functional groups based on the cells' receptive field properties. There seem to be functional equivalents of the cat's Y- and W-cell classes but evidence for a distinct X-like class of cells is lacking.", "PMID": 456451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12222", "title": "The retinal origin of uncrossed optic nerve fibres in rats and their role in visual discrimination.", "content": "An attempt was made to sever the optic chiasma in the mid-sagittal plane in 12 rats. This was successful in 8 animals. Provided there was no additional substantial damage to the uncrossed optic fibres the rats were able to relearn an intensity discrimination and to learn or relearn an orientation discrimination, although optokinetic following was abolished. The results unequivocally demonstrate that the uncrossed optic fibres can mediate two kinds of visual discrimination. The area of retina giving rise to the uncrossed fibres was determined from the position of undegenerated retinal ganglion cells in each eye following section of the chiasma, and in one eye of 4 rats in which one optic tract was entirely or extensively destroyed. The ganglion cells giving rise to the uncrossed optic fibres occupy about 40 degrees of the temporal retina, corresponding to the binocular overlap in the visual field.", "contents": "The retinal origin of uncrossed optic nerve fibres in rats and their role in visual discrimination. An attempt was made to sever the optic chiasma in the mid-sagittal plane in 12 rats. This was successful in 8 animals. Provided there was no additional substantial damage to the uncrossed optic fibres the rats were able to relearn an intensity discrimination and to learn or relearn an orientation discrimination, although optokinetic following was abolished. The results unequivocally demonstrate that the uncrossed optic fibres can mediate two kinds of visual discrimination. The area of retina giving rise to the uncrossed fibres was determined from the position of undegenerated retinal ganglion cells in each eye following section of the chiasma, and in one eye of 4 rats in which one optic tract was entirely or extensively destroyed. The ganglion cells giving rise to the uncrossed optic fibres occupy about 40 degrees of the temporal retina, corresponding to the binocular overlap in the visual field.", "PMID": 456452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12223", "title": "The projection of the temporal retina in rats, studied by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase.", "content": "Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected unilaterally into the lateral geniculate nucleus or tectum, or both, in 26 hooded rats in order to mark the exact extent of the retina from which uncrossed optic axons arise. This region occupied about a quarter of the retina, in the temporal periphery, following thalamic injections, but a much smaller region following tectal injections. By comparing the proportions of HRP positive neurones in nasal and temporal retinae of both eyes it was shown that: (1) within the region supplying uncrossed axons the majority of the ganglion cells nevertheless project contralaterally, (2) a large proportion of the ganglion cells from the temporal crescent project bilaterally, which does not occur from the remainder of the retina, (3) ganglion cells of all sizes contribute to both ipsilateral and contralateral projections. The results also support earlier suggestions that the smallest neurones in the ganglion cell layer do not send an axon into the brain, and are therefore not ganglion cells.", "contents": "The projection of the temporal retina in rats, studied by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected unilaterally into the lateral geniculate nucleus or tectum, or both, in 26 hooded rats in order to mark the exact extent of the retina from which uncrossed optic axons arise. This region occupied about a quarter of the retina, in the temporal periphery, following thalamic injections, but a much smaller region following tectal injections. By comparing the proportions of HRP positive neurones in nasal and temporal retinae of both eyes it was shown that: (1) within the region supplying uncrossed axons the majority of the ganglion cells nevertheless project contralaterally, (2) a large proportion of the ganglion cells from the temporal crescent project bilaterally, which does not occur from the remainder of the retina, (3) ganglion cells of all sizes contribute to both ipsilateral and contralateral projections. The results also support earlier suggestions that the smallest neurones in the ganglion cell layer do not send an axon into the brain, and are therefore not ganglion cells.", "PMID": 456453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12224", "title": "Thermosensory defects after cervical spinal cord lesions in the cat.", "content": "The behavioural thermosensitivity of cat paws was examined before and/or after restricted uni- and/or bilateral lesions had been made in the spinal cord between the first and fifth cervical segments. Unilateral lesions of the lateral funiculus, which involved at least its whole width at the level of the central canal, reproducibly were found to interfere with the contralateral sensitivity for temperature increases and/or decreases. No corresponding thermosensory deficiencies were found after unilateral lesions involving the ventral spinal quadrant or the dorsal funiculus. Various bilateral and combined lesions were made, but no cat ever developed thermoanaesthesia. The bilateral lesions included bilateral transections of: the middle parts of the lateral funiculi, the dorsal halves of the lateral funiculi, the dorsal funiculi, and the ventral spinal half. Most of our knowledge about peripheral behavioural thermosensitivity after spinal cord injury is based on observations of human patients, especially after anterolateral chordotomies. The present finding of contralateral thermosensory deficiencies after lesions of the middle part of the lateral funiculus fits with some of the clinical reports. The present failure to cause thermoanaesthesia, on the other hand, is inconsistent with the theory of a single ascending spinal pathway for behavioural thermosensitivity, which has emanated mainly from the clinical observations.", "contents": "Thermosensory defects after cervical spinal cord lesions in the cat. The behavioural thermosensitivity of cat paws was examined before and/or after restricted uni- and/or bilateral lesions had been made in the spinal cord between the first and fifth cervical segments. Unilateral lesions of the lateral funiculus, which involved at least its whole width at the level of the central canal, reproducibly were found to interfere with the contralateral sensitivity for temperature increases and/or decreases. No corresponding thermosensory deficiencies were found after unilateral lesions involving the ventral spinal quadrant or the dorsal funiculus. Various bilateral and combined lesions were made, but no cat ever developed thermoanaesthesia. The bilateral lesions included bilateral transections of: the middle parts of the lateral funiculi, the dorsal halves of the lateral funiculi, the dorsal funiculi, and the ventral spinal half. Most of our knowledge about peripheral behavioural thermosensitivity after spinal cord injury is based on observations of human patients, especially after anterolateral chordotomies. The present finding of contralateral thermosensory deficiencies after lesions of the middle part of the lateral funiculus fits with some of the clinical reports. The present failure to cause thermoanaesthesia, on the other hand, is inconsistent with the theory of a single ascending spinal pathway for behavioural thermosensitivity, which has emanated mainly from the clinical observations.", "PMID": 456454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12225", "title": "A comparison of visual responses in two pretectal nuclei and in the superior colliculus of the cat.", "content": "Single unit recordings from 220 units were obtained from the nuclei praetectalis anterior (NPA) and posterior (NPP) of 30 immobilized, anesthetized cats. Quantitative analysis of pretectal (PT) visual activity was mainly based on recordings from the NPP. For comparison, 160 collicular (CS) neurons were studied. A strong sensitivity for moving objects was evident in both samples. The following main types of PT activity were categorized: (A) slow movement, direction-selective units (21%); (B) slow movement, nondirection-selective units (19%); (C) units nonselective for stimulus velocity and direction (24%); (D) jerk movement selective, nondirection-selective units (36%). Latency measurements following single shocks to optic chiasm (OX) and tract (OT) showed mainly slow conducting fiber input to the PT and CS which can be divided into two different groups by conduction properties and synaptic delay: direct W-input and delayed W-input. Fast Y-fiber input of both types, direct and indirect, was recorded at both sites, PT and CS.", "contents": "A comparison of visual responses in two pretectal nuclei and in the superior colliculus of the cat. Single unit recordings from 220 units were obtained from the nuclei praetectalis anterior (NPA) and posterior (NPP) of 30 immobilized, anesthetized cats. Quantitative analysis of pretectal (PT) visual activity was mainly based on recordings from the NPP. For comparison, 160 collicular (CS) neurons were studied. A strong sensitivity for moving objects was evident in both samples. The following main types of PT activity were categorized: (A) slow movement, direction-selective units (21%); (B) slow movement, nondirection-selective units (19%); (C) units nonselective for stimulus velocity and direction (24%); (D) jerk movement selective, nondirection-selective units (36%). Latency measurements following single shocks to optic chiasm (OX) and tract (OT) showed mainly slow conducting fiber input to the PT and CS which can be divided into two different groups by conduction properties and synaptic delay: direct W-input and delayed W-input. Fast Y-fiber input of both types, direct and indirect, was recorded at both sites, PT and CS.", "PMID": 456455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12226", "title": "Morphological evidence for axonal sprouting of cerebellothalamic neurons in kittens after neonatal hemicerebellectomy.", "content": "Changes in cerebellothalamic projections in kittens after neonatal hemicerebellectomy were studied by the retrograde and anterograde horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-tract-tracing methods. The number of cerebellar nuclear neurons labeled retrogradely with HRP injected into the ipsilateral VA-VL complex of the thalamus was much more numerous in neonatally hemicerebellectomized kittens than in intact kittens. Presumed terminals of ipsilateral cerebellothalamic fibers labeled anterogradely with HRP injected into the cerebellar nuclei were also distributed more densely and extensively in the thalamic areas, especially in the VA-VL complex, of hemicerebellectomized kittens than in the thalamic areas of the control kittens. These results are in good accordance with those obtained from the previous electrophysiological study (Kawaguchi et al., 1979) and offer corroborating evidence for axonal sprouting of cerebellothalamic neurons after neonatal hemicerebellectomy.", "contents": "Morphological evidence for axonal sprouting of cerebellothalamic neurons in kittens after neonatal hemicerebellectomy. Changes in cerebellothalamic projections in kittens after neonatal hemicerebellectomy were studied by the retrograde and anterograde horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-tract-tracing methods. The number of cerebellar nuclear neurons labeled retrogradely with HRP injected into the ipsilateral VA-VL complex of the thalamus was much more numerous in neonatally hemicerebellectomized kittens than in intact kittens. Presumed terminals of ipsilateral cerebellothalamic fibers labeled anterogradely with HRP injected into the cerebellar nuclei were also distributed more densely and extensively in the thalamic areas, especially in the VA-VL complex, of hemicerebellectomized kittens than in the thalamic areas of the control kittens. These results are in good accordance with those obtained from the previous electrophysiological study (Kawaguchi et al., 1979) and offer corroborating evidence for axonal sprouting of cerebellothalamic neurons after neonatal hemicerebellectomy.", "PMID": 456456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12227", "title": "Amblyopia occurs in retinal ganglion cells in cats reared with convergent squint without alternating fixation.", "content": "The spatial resolving power, contrast sensitivity, and receptive field properties of retinal ganglion cells were studied in cats reared with either convergent or divergent squint in one eye. Sustained-X cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of the cats with esotropia without alternating fixation showed significantly poorer spatial resolution, and reduced contrast sensitivity compared with cells in the area centralis of the normal eye. These amblyopic sustained-X cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye had receptive field characteristics similar to those found in immature cells of young kittens. They had a shallow sensitivity gradient within a relatively widespread centre zone and a weak and widespread inhibitory surround. In contrast, the sustained cells in the area centralis of the normal eye revealed a typical, well defined, small centre zone with its sensitivity gradient extremely steep and its inhibitory surround strong and confined. A minor degree of amblyopia was also found in transient Y-cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of these cats. However, no loss of resolving power was found in the cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of the cats with esotropia or exotropia which showed alternating fixation. Thus, amblyopia occurs in those eyes which have lost the use of the area centralis as the normal visual axis during early postnatal development, and its organic lesion is already apparent in the retinal ganglion cells--the third order neurone in the afferent visual system. It is suggested that the loss of the ability to fixate results in inadequate stimulation of the central retinal ganglion cells due to the habitual presence of blurred images at the area centralis which prevents their full development during the critical period.", "contents": "Amblyopia occurs in retinal ganglion cells in cats reared with convergent squint without alternating fixation. The spatial resolving power, contrast sensitivity, and receptive field properties of retinal ganglion cells were studied in cats reared with either convergent or divergent squint in one eye. Sustained-X cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of the cats with esotropia without alternating fixation showed significantly poorer spatial resolution, and reduced contrast sensitivity compared with cells in the area centralis of the normal eye. These amblyopic sustained-X cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye had receptive field characteristics similar to those found in immature cells of young kittens. They had a shallow sensitivity gradient within a relatively widespread centre zone and a weak and widespread inhibitory surround. In contrast, the sustained cells in the area centralis of the normal eye revealed a typical, well defined, small centre zone with its sensitivity gradient extremely steep and its inhibitory surround strong and confined. A minor degree of amblyopia was also found in transient Y-cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of these cats. However, no loss of resolving power was found in the cells in the area centralis of the squinting eye of the cats with esotropia or exotropia which showed alternating fixation. Thus, amblyopia occurs in those eyes which have lost the use of the area centralis as the normal visual axis during early postnatal development, and its organic lesion is already apparent in the retinal ganglion cells--the third order neurone in the afferent visual system. It is suggested that the loss of the ability to fixate results in inadequate stimulation of the central retinal ganglion cells due to the habitual presence of blurred images at the area centralis which prevents their full development during the critical period.", "PMID": 456457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12228", "title": "Family size, contraceptive practice and fertility intentions in England and Wales, 1967--1975.", "content": "In Britain, as in the United States over the last decade, there has been a considerable decline in the birthrate, in average family size and in the number of children wanted, at the same time that use of the most effective forms of contraception--the pill, the IUD and contraceptive sterilization--and use of abortion have become more and more widespread.", "contents": "Family size, contraceptive practice and fertility intentions in England and Wales, 1967--1975. In Britain, as in the United States over the last decade, there has been a considerable decline in the birthrate, in average family size and in the number of children wanted, at the same time that use of the most effective forms of contraception--the pill, the IUD and contraceptive sterilization--and use of abortion have become more and more widespread.", "PMID": 456487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12229", "title": "Ecosystemic epistemology: an alternative paradigm for diagnosis.", "content": "An alternative paradigm for diagnosis based on cybernetics, ecology, and systems theory is proposed. This paradigm, termed \"ecosystemic epistemology,\" suggests that diagnosis focus on knowing problematic situations in an ecological and systemic way. Theoretical statements concerning this approach are delineated with specific references to major family therapists. This discussion provides a foundation for an ecosystemic epistemology for diagnosis that addresses the following issues: (a) the meaning of system; (b) the symptom's presence in the system; (c) the therapist's presence in the system; (d) the ecological relationship system that emerges in diagnosis; and (e) the relation between ecosystemic epistemology and the process of diagnosis. In effect, this paper attempts to formally describe the underlying epistemology inherent in the work of therapists who approach diagnosis in an ecological and systemic way.", "contents": "Ecosystemic epistemology: an alternative paradigm for diagnosis. An alternative paradigm for diagnosis based on cybernetics, ecology, and systems theory is proposed. This paradigm, termed \"ecosystemic epistemology,\" suggests that diagnosis focus on knowing problematic situations in an ecological and systemic way. Theoretical statements concerning this approach are delineated with specific references to major family therapists. This discussion provides a foundation for an ecosystemic epistemology for diagnosis that addresses the following issues: (a) the meaning of system; (b) the symptom's presence in the system; (c) the therapist's presence in the system; (d) the ecological relationship system that emerges in diagnosis; and (e) the relation between ecosystemic epistemology and the process of diagnosis. In effect, this paper attempts to formally describe the underlying epistemology inherent in the work of therapists who approach diagnosis in an ecological and systemic way.", "PMID": 456494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12230", "title": "The family therapy of attempted suicide.", "content": "Suicidal behavior is a multidetermined act based upon a variety of factors among which family tensions and patterns of interaction predominate. Family therapy, nevertheless, is underutilized for suicidal situations because too few practitioners possess the requisite skills in both suicidology and family treatment. This paper attempts to integrate the two fields, describes some assessment procedures, and presents an account of the method of family therapy utilized by the author with suicidal persons. The basic goals of therapy are to help initiate and to catalyze a healing process that will enable the participants to accept changes in both individual and family existence; to decrease the amount of destructive family interaction; to deal with the inevitable anxiety that accompanies growth and development; to make contact with and among the family members; and to provide hope.", "contents": "The family therapy of attempted suicide. Suicidal behavior is a multidetermined act based upon a variety of factors among which family tensions and patterns of interaction predominate. Family therapy, nevertheless, is underutilized for suicidal situations because too few practitioners possess the requisite skills in both suicidology and family treatment. This paper attempts to integrate the two fields, describes some assessment procedures, and presents an account of the method of family therapy utilized by the author with suicidal persons. The basic goals of therapy are to help initiate and to catalyze a healing process that will enable the participants to accept changes in both individual and family existence; to decrease the amount of destructive family interaction; to deal with the inevitable anxiety that accompanies growth and development; to make contact with and among the family members; and to provide hope.", "PMID": 456495} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12231", "title": "Family awareness for nonclinicians: participation in a simulated family as a teaching technique.", "content": "This paper describes a course in family theory geared to \"well\" family members that combines didactic and experiential teaching techniques. A key feature of the course is that students participate in a simulated family for twelve weeks. Family therapists are skilled at using techniques that powerfully dramatize family process; they can provide a needed and useful service to the community by teaching the dynamics of families functioning to people who have a personal or professional interest in learning more about families.", "contents": "Family awareness for nonclinicians: participation in a simulated family as a teaching technique. This paper describes a course in family theory geared to \"well\" family members that combines didactic and experiential teaching techniques. A key feature of the course is that students participate in a simulated family for twelve weeks. Family therapists are skilled at using techniques that powerfully dramatize family process; they can provide a needed and useful service to the community by teaching the dynamics of families functioning to people who have a personal or professional interest in learning more about families.", "PMID": 456496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12232", "title": "Jealousy: systematic, problem-solving therapy with couples.", "content": "Literature on the treatment of marital jealousy has focused on individual and interpersonal awareness/insight and the use of communication-negotiation skills. This paper proposes an alternative viewpoint applying the problem-solving approaches of Erikson, Haley, Watzlawick, Weakland, and Fisch to the alteration of jealous systems. Through a detailed case study, the author describes the concept of the therapeutic triangle and the use of paradox and symptom transfer as potential contributions in the treatment of jealousy. Finally, the author discusses briefly a possible factor leading to the success of the systematic, problem-solving modality: serious playfulness.", "contents": "Jealousy: systematic, problem-solving therapy with couples. Literature on the treatment of marital jealousy has focused on individual and interpersonal awareness/insight and the use of communication-negotiation skills. This paper proposes an alternative viewpoint applying the problem-solving approaches of Erikson, Haley, Watzlawick, Weakland, and Fisch to the alteration of jealous systems. Through a detailed case study, the author describes the concept of the therapeutic triangle and the use of paradox and symptom transfer as potential contributions in the treatment of jealousy. Finally, the author discusses briefly a possible factor leading to the success of the systematic, problem-solving modality: serious playfulness.", "PMID": 456497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12233", "title": "Pilgrim's progress III: A trend analysis of family theory and methodology.", "content": "Exciting developments in family theory construction over the past few years demand a constant survey and evaluation of measurable progress. This paper documents some developmental trends that have taken place in family theory construction and its applications, as well as in the relation of theory to advances in methodology. Many of these trends are examined in the light of two earlier reports, Pilgrim's Progress I (21) and Pilgrim's Progress II (13).", "contents": "Pilgrim's progress III: A trend analysis of family theory and methodology. Exciting developments in family theory construction over the past few years demand a constant survey and evaluation of measurable progress. This paper documents some developmental trends that have taken place in family theory construction and its applications, as well as in the relation of theory to advances in methodology. Many of these trends are examined in the light of two earlier reports, Pilgrim's Progress I (21) and Pilgrim's Progress II (13).", "PMID": 456499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12234", "title": "An empirical comparison of natural-father and stepfather family systems.", "content": "This study examined the family system differences between 40 volunteer natural-father and stepfather families. Family triads consisting of the husband, the wife, and a child whose age ranged from 12 to 15 years were studied. Four instruments were used: (a) the Family Concept Q-Sort; (b) a Semantic Differential; (c) a demographic questionnaire; and (d) an interaction-reaction questionnaire. Analyses of variance on the data obtained from the Q-sorts and the Semantic Differentials indicated that stepfather family systems are different from natural-father family systems along several salient dimensions including psychological adjustment, satisfaction with family, reciprocal understanding, and perceived goodness and potency. It was concluded that the differences between the family systems in terms of their interpersonal relations and perceptions affect the entire stepparent family system and its ability to function adequately.", "contents": "An empirical comparison of natural-father and stepfather family systems. This study examined the family system differences between 40 volunteer natural-father and stepfather families. Family triads consisting of the husband, the wife, and a child whose age ranged from 12 to 15 years were studied. Four instruments were used: (a) the Family Concept Q-Sort; (b) a Semantic Differential; (c) a demographic questionnaire; and (d) an interaction-reaction questionnaire. Analyses of variance on the data obtained from the Q-sorts and the Semantic Differentials indicated that stepfather family systems are different from natural-father family systems along several salient dimensions including psychological adjustment, satisfaction with family, reciprocal understanding, and perceived goodness and potency. It was concluded that the differences between the family systems in terms of their interpersonal relations and perceptions affect the entire stepparent family system and its ability to function adequately.", "PMID": 456500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12235", "title": "Remarriage after divorce: dissolution and reconstruction of family boundaries.", "content": "Remarriage is analyzed from the perspective of family boundaries and roles. The nuclear and remarriage family models are compared, and the process that begins with the formation of the first-marriage nuclear family and ends with the formation of a second-marriage family is conceptualized in terms of changing family boundaries and roles. Discussions with remarriage group members provide concrete illustrations of this process and suggest solutions to some of the problems confronting remarriage family members.", "contents": "Remarriage after divorce: dissolution and reconstruction of family boundaries. Remarriage is analyzed from the perspective of family boundaries and roles. The nuclear and remarriage family models are compared, and the process that begins with the formation of the first-marriage nuclear family and ends with the formation of a second-marriage family is conceptualized in terms of changing family boundaries and roles. Discussions with remarriage group members provide concrete illustrations of this process and suggest solutions to some of the problems confronting remarriage family members.", "PMID": 456501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12236", "title": "The pill and mortality from cardiovascular disease: another look.", "content": "Analysis of U.S. mortality statistics shows that since adoption of the pill, deaths among women of reproductive age from cardiovascular diseases have declined much more steeply than have death rates for comparable men. This suggests that the high level of risk of death from such diseases associated with pill use in other studies are exaggerated.", "contents": "The pill and mortality from cardiovascular disease: another look. Analysis of U.S. mortality statistics shows that since adoption of the pill, deaths among women of reproductive age from cardiovascular diseases have declined much more steeply than have death rates for comparable men. This suggests that the high level of risk of death from such diseases associated with pill use in other studies are exaggerated.", "PMID": 456490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12237", "title": "The brain renin-angiotensin system: a critical analysis.", "content": "The concept of a brain renin-angiotensin system originated with the observation that the components necessary for the formation of angiotensin II are present in the central nervous system. This observation has been confirmed and extended, and it is now frequently assumed that there is a functional brain renin-angiotensin system. However, careful analysis of the available evidence has revealed a number of significant problems. It appears that most of the renin-like activity measured in extracts of brain is due to the acid protease cathepsin D; this is unlikely to function as an angiotensin-forming enzyme in vivo. Experiments involving central administration of renin substrate have not provided convincing evidence for a significant renin-renin substrate interaction in vivo. Attempts to demonstrate the presence of angiotensin in the brain have been plagued with problems of specificity and it is still not clear if the peptide is actually present in the central nervous system. These problems do not rule out the possibility that there is a brain renin-angiotensin system, but more definitive evidence is required before it can be concluded that such a tensin system exists.", "contents": "The brain renin-angiotensin system: a critical analysis. The concept of a brain renin-angiotensin system originated with the observation that the components necessary for the formation of angiotensin II are present in the central nervous system. This observation has been confirmed and extended, and it is now frequently assumed that there is a functional brain renin-angiotensin system. However, careful analysis of the available evidence has revealed a number of significant problems. It appears that most of the renin-like activity measured in extracts of brain is due to the acid protease cathepsin D; this is unlikely to function as an angiotensin-forming enzyme in vivo. Experiments involving central administration of renin substrate have not provided convincing evidence for a significant renin-renin substrate interaction in vivo. Attempts to demonstrate the presence of angiotensin in the brain have been plagued with problems of specificity and it is still not clear if the peptide is actually present in the central nervous system. These problems do not rule out the possibility that there is a brain renin-angiotensin system, but more definitive evidence is required before it can be concluded that such a tensin system exists.", "PMID": 456611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12238", "title": "Interrelations between vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system.", "content": "The interrelationships between vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system are reviewed. Vasopressin can inhibit the release of renin by the kidney. This effect can occur at physiological plasma concentrations of vasopressin. Centrally administered angiotensin II can stimulate the release of vasopressin, a response that may be partially mediated by brain prostaglandins. The significance of this action of angiotensin II depends on whether there is an effective brain renin-angiotensin system and on whether peripherally generated or administered angiotensin can reach sites in the brain where it can act on vasopressin release. Peripherally administered angiotensin II can under certain, but not all, conditions stimulate vasopressin release. Peripheral angiotensin II can also potentiate the vasopressin response to an osmotic stimulus and to dehydration, but has little effect the release of vasopressin and renin, there is a failure to demonstrate any correlation between the two. Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system fails to modify the vasopressin response to a reduction in blood volume. In conclusion, the physiological significance of the interactions between the vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system is not as yet clearly established.", "contents": "Interrelations between vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system. The interrelationships between vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system are reviewed. Vasopressin can inhibit the release of renin by the kidney. This effect can occur at physiological plasma concentrations of vasopressin. Centrally administered angiotensin II can stimulate the release of vasopressin, a response that may be partially mediated by brain prostaglandins. The significance of this action of angiotensin II depends on whether there is an effective brain renin-angiotensin system and on whether peripherally generated or administered angiotensin can reach sites in the brain where it can act on vasopressin release. Peripherally administered angiotensin II can under certain, but not all, conditions stimulate vasopressin release. Peripheral angiotensin II can also potentiate the vasopressin response to an osmotic stimulus and to dehydration, but has little effect the release of vasopressin and renin, there is a failure to demonstrate any correlation between the two. Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system fails to modify the vasopressin response to a reduction in blood volume. In conclusion, the physiological significance of the interactions between the vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system is not as yet clearly established.", "PMID": 456612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12239", "title": "Physiological actions of angiotensin II on the kidney.", "content": "The importance of angiotensin as a modulator of renal function is well documented. Several lines of evidence suggest strongly that angiotensin plays an important role in the maintenance of renal vascular resistance and arterial pressure in several physiological and pathophysiological states with increased activity of the renin-angiotensin system. Angiotensin also acts as a physiological \"brake\" on excessive release of renin from juxtaglomerular cells. Angiotensin influences renal sodium excretion via its renal vascular actions to change the glomerular filtration rate and, thus, the filtered load of sodium; in addition, angiotensin influences tubular reabsorption of sodium by altering the filtration fraction and the balance of Starling forces in the peritubular capillaries.", "contents": "Physiological actions of angiotensin II on the kidney. The importance of angiotensin as a modulator of renal function is well documented. Several lines of evidence suggest strongly that angiotensin plays an important role in the maintenance of renal vascular resistance and arterial pressure in several physiological and pathophysiological states with increased activity of the renin-angiotensin system. Angiotensin also acts as a physiological \"brake\" on excessive release of renin from juxtaglomerular cells. Angiotensin influences renal sodium excretion via its renal vascular actions to change the glomerular filtration rate and, thus, the filtered load of sodium; in addition, angiotensin influences tubular reabsorption of sodium by altering the filtration fraction and the balance of Starling forces in the peritubular capillaries.", "PMID": 456613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12240", "title": "Some contributions to the chemistry of the gastrointestinal hormones.", "content": "Twenty-five years ago we described an extraction procedure for porcine secretin in which the intestinal tissue is briefly boiled in water and then extracted with dilute acid at low temperature. Boiling in water, which inactivates proteolytic enzymes, does not extract secretin, and extraction with acid in the cold will minimize cleavage of acid labile peptide structures. This extraction procedure has formed the basis for the isolation not only of secretin but also of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin (CCK) and, in collaboration with other laboratories, of the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), the gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), and motilin. Recently it has been used for the isolation of an N-terminally extended somatostatin from intestinal tissue, and of a peptide, from both nonantral gastric and intestinal tissues, with gastrin-releasing and probably cholecystokinin-releasing properties. A technique has been worked out permitting the chemical analysis, in certain cases, of polypeptide hormones in the presence of other polypeptides, the polypeptide mixture being exposed to fragmentation conditions known to result in characteristic hormone fragments, which are then extracted and quantitated. The technique can also be useful for the isolation of previously unknown peptides by identifying fragments of such and tracing them back to their peptides of origin.", "contents": "Some contributions to the chemistry of the gastrointestinal hormones. Twenty-five years ago we described an extraction procedure for porcine secretin in which the intestinal tissue is briefly boiled in water and then extracted with dilute acid at low temperature. Boiling in water, which inactivates proteolytic enzymes, does not extract secretin, and extraction with acid in the cold will minimize cleavage of acid labile peptide structures. This extraction procedure has formed the basis for the isolation not only of secretin but also of cholecystokinin-pancreozymin (CCK) and, in collaboration with other laboratories, of the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), the gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), and motilin. Recently it has been used for the isolation of an N-terminally extended somatostatin from intestinal tissue, and of a peptide, from both nonantral gastric and intestinal tissues, with gastrin-releasing and probably cholecystokinin-releasing properties. A technique has been worked out permitting the chemical analysis, in certain cases, of polypeptide hormones in the presence of other polypeptides, the polypeptide mixture being exposed to fragmentation conditions known to result in characteristic hormone fragments, which are then extracted and quantitated. The technique can also be useful for the isolation of previously unknown peptides by identifying fragments of such and tracing them back to their peptides of origin.", "PMID": 456617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12241", "title": "Bombesin-like peptides in mammals.", "content": "Acid extracts of rat gut and brain contain substances that cross-react in a radioimmunoassay for the amphibian skin tetradecapeptide bombesin. Highest concentrations are present in the fundic part of the stomach, but there are significant amounts throughout the small and large intestine. Concentrations in the brain are highest in the hypothalamus. On gel filtration the rat bombesin-like immunoreactivity eluted as two major peaks. Fractionation of the second peak on cation exchange chromatography resolves this material into two further components. Intravenous infusions of partially purified preparations of the two components separated on gel filtration cause increases in serum gastrin in rats that are similar to those produced by immunochemically comparable amounts of synthetic bombesin.", "contents": "Bombesin-like peptides in mammals. Acid extracts of rat gut and brain contain substances that cross-react in a radioimmunoassay for the amphibian skin tetradecapeptide bombesin. Highest concentrations are present in the fundic part of the stomach, but there are significant amounts throughout the small and large intestine. Concentrations in the brain are highest in the hypothalamus. On gel filtration the rat bombesin-like immunoreactivity eluted as two major peaks. Fractionation of the second peak on cation exchange chromatography resolves this material into two further components. Intravenous infusions of partially purified preparations of the two components separated on gel filtration cause increases in serum gastrin in rats that are similar to those produced by immunochemically comparable amounts of synthetic bombesin.", "PMID": 456618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12242", "title": "Chemical messengers: a view from the gut.", "content": "The peptides usually called gastrointestinal hormones belong to a broader group of regulatory substances distributed in many parts of the body and delivered to their targets not only by the blood but also by neural and paracrine paths. The neural, endocrine, and paracrine cells as a group might be called \"regulator cells\" and the chemical messengers they produce might be called \"regulins.\" Twenty peptides have been isolated from the alimentary tract and pancreas: 12 have been sequenced, 4 have been partially sequenced, and 4 more have been identified only by immunoreactivity. Gastrin, gastric inhibitory peptide, glucagon, insulin, and secretin can be regarded as established hormones that are released into the blood by identified stimuli and produce identified physiological responses. The evidence for the hormonal status of cholecystokinin, pancreatic polypeptide, and motilin is incomplete but suggestive. The possible physiological roles of the other 12 peptides remain to be determined. If specific antagonists of these peptides can be found, they will greatly assist in elucidating the peptides' physiological roles.", "contents": "Chemical messengers: a view from the gut. The peptides usually called gastrointestinal hormones belong to a broader group of regulatory substances distributed in many parts of the body and delivered to their targets not only by the blood but also by neural and paracrine paths. The neural, endocrine, and paracrine cells as a group might be called \"regulator cells\" and the chemical messengers they produce might be called \"regulins.\" Twenty peptides have been isolated from the alimentary tract and pancreas: 12 have been sequenced, 4 have been partially sequenced, and 4 more have been identified only by immunoreactivity. Gastrin, gastric inhibitory peptide, glucagon, insulin, and secretin can be regarded as established hormones that are released into the blood by identified stimuli and produce identified physiological responses. The evidence for the hormonal status of cholecystokinin, pancreatic polypeptide, and motilin is incomplete but suggestive. The possible physiological roles of the other 12 peptides remain to be determined. If specific antagonists of these peptides can be found, they will greatly assist in elucidating the peptides' physiological roles.", "PMID": 456621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12243", "title": "Synaptic modulation by substance P.", "content": "The phrase \"synaptic modulation,\" to describe a role of neurotropic peptides, has been used in a number of different ways by a number of different investigators. Using the phrase in its original context, i.e. altered (increased or decreased) synaptic excitability without reference to site or mode of action, evidence is presented that substance P modulates synaptic transmission of cat alpha-motoneurons. The effect appears to be biphasic, with low doses inhibiting, and high doses facilitating synaptic transmission.", "contents": "Synaptic modulation by substance P. The phrase \"synaptic modulation,\" to describe a role of neurotropic peptides, has been used in a number of different ways by a number of different investigators. Using the phrase in its original context, i.e. altered (increased or decreased) synaptic excitability without reference to site or mode of action, evidence is presented that substance P modulates synaptic transmission of cat alpha-motoneurons. The effect appears to be biphasic, with low doses inhibiting, and high doses facilitating synaptic transmission.", "PMID": 456622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12244", "title": "Inhibition of sperm dilution damage by purified factors from hamster caudal epididymal plasma and by defined diluents.", "content": "Sperm dilution damage can be prevented by diluting hamster caudal epididymal (HCE) sperm in HCE plasma, a fluid which had been shown to contain sperm survival factors (SF). Dialysis and ultrafiltration studies demonstrated that SF consisted of both small-molecule and large-molecule components. Several known macromolecules and small molecules could substitute for these factors. Chemically defined diluents were designed that were able to substitute for HCE plasma in the prevention of sperm dilution damage under certain conditions. When the HCE plasma large-molecule component were fractionated by Sephadex G-100 chromatography, three bands of SF activity eluted. One appeared in the void volume ( is greater than 100,000 daltons), one with bovine serum albumin (67,000 daltons), and one at about 35,000 daltons. Two HCE plasma small-molecule components of less than 500 daltons eluted from both Sephadex G-25 and G-15 columns. Proteolysis studies suggested that both the small-molecule and the large-molecule components of HCE plasma may possess peptide bonds.", "contents": "Inhibition of sperm dilution damage by purified factors from hamster caudal epididymal plasma and by defined diluents. Sperm dilution damage can be prevented by diluting hamster caudal epididymal (HCE) sperm in HCE plasma, a fluid which had been shown to contain sperm survival factors (SF). Dialysis and ultrafiltration studies demonstrated that SF consisted of both small-molecule and large-molecule components. Several known macromolecules and small molecules could substitute for these factors. Chemically defined diluents were designed that were able to substitute for HCE plasma in the prevention of sperm dilution damage under certain conditions. When the HCE plasma large-molecule component were fractionated by Sephadex G-100 chromatography, three bands of SF activity eluted. One appeared in the void volume ( is greater than 100,000 daltons), one with bovine serum albumin (67,000 daltons), and one at about 35,000 daltons. Two HCE plasma small-molecule components of less than 500 daltons eluted from both Sephadex G-25 and G-15 columns. Proteolysis studies suggested that both the small-molecule and the large-molecule components of HCE plasma may possess peptide bonds.", "PMID": 456623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12245", "title": "Ovarian ectopic pregnancy in association with a copper-7 intrauterine device in situ.", "content": "A case is reported of a primary ovarian pregnancy in a patient with a Cu-7 intrauterine device. A brief review of the literature on this subject is exposed. As the action of intrauterine devices on the ovulatory mechanism and tubal transport of the ovum is still unknown, further studies should be carried out to explain this association.", "contents": "Ovarian ectopic pregnancy in association with a copper-7 intrauterine device in situ. A case is reported of a primary ovarian pregnancy in a patient with a Cu-7 intrauterine device. A brief review of the literature on this subject is exposed. As the action of intrauterine devices on the ovulatory mechanism and tubal transport of the ovum is still unknown, further studies should be carried out to explain this association.", "PMID": 456625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12246", "title": "Contraceptive practice before and after therapeutic abortion. II. Use-effectiveness of oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices.", "content": "Of 180 women who underwent therapeutic abortion in a certain period in 1977, 71.7% were unmarried and 63.9% were unmarried primigravidas. At the first follow-up visit 3 to 6 weeks postabortion 55.0% of the unmarried primigravidas chose oral contraceptives and 43.2% chose intrauterine devices (IUDs). Of the unmarried women, 25.7% chose oral contraceptives and 65.7% chose IUDs. For unmarried primigravidas the 1-year continuation rates for oral contraceptives and IUDs were 83.6% and 93.8%, respectively. For married women the figures were 55.6% for oral contraceptives and 91.3% for IUDs. The differences between use of oral contraceptives and use of IUDs in the two groups of women was not statistically significant. We recorded no contraceptive failure, but three episodes of pelvic inflammatory disease occurred among unmarried primigravidas. The results indicate a high motivation for reliable methods and a high continuation rate following therapeutic abortion. The results may also indicate that oral contraceptives and IUDs represent equivalent methods for both parous and nulliparous women.", "contents": "Contraceptive practice before and after therapeutic abortion. II. Use-effectiveness of oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices. Of 180 women who underwent therapeutic abortion in a certain period in 1977, 71.7% were unmarried and 63.9% were unmarried primigravidas. At the first follow-up visit 3 to 6 weeks postabortion 55.0% of the unmarried primigravidas chose oral contraceptives and 43.2% chose intrauterine devices (IUDs). Of the unmarried women, 25.7% chose oral contraceptives and 65.7% chose IUDs. For unmarried primigravidas the 1-year continuation rates for oral contraceptives and IUDs were 83.6% and 93.8%, respectively. For married women the figures were 55.6% for oral contraceptives and 91.3% for IUDs. The differences between use of oral contraceptives and use of IUDs in the two groups of women was not statistically significant. We recorded no contraceptive failure, but three episodes of pelvic inflammatory disease occurred among unmarried primigravidas. The results indicate a high motivation for reliable methods and a high continuation rate following therapeutic abortion. The results may also indicate that oral contraceptives and IUDs represent equivalent methods for both parous and nulliparous women.", "PMID": 456627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12247", "title": "The intrauterine device and ovarian pregnancy.", "content": "Within a 1-year period, three patients presenting to the University of Chicago, Chicago Lying-In Hospital with a complaint of lower abdominal pain were diagnosed at laparotomy to have ovarian pregnancies according to the criteria of Spiegelberg. All of the patients were at the time using the Copper-7 intrauterine device for contraception. There are now 50 known cases of ovarian pregnancies in patients using the intrauterine device (IUD). The characteristics of these patients do not differ markedly from those previously reported in studies on tubal pregnancies, with and without the IUD, but the presentation of patients tends to be more variable than in tubal pregnancies. The increasing incidence noted here, in a population already known to be particularly prone to pelvic inflammatory disease and therefore ectopic pregnancies in general, lends further credence to a questioning of the desirability of the IUD in such a population.", "contents": "The intrauterine device and ovarian pregnancy. Within a 1-year period, three patients presenting to the University of Chicago, Chicago Lying-In Hospital with a complaint of lower abdominal pain were diagnosed at laparotomy to have ovarian pregnancies according to the criteria of Spiegelberg. All of the patients were at the time using the Copper-7 intrauterine device for contraception. There are now 50 known cases of ovarian pregnancies in patients using the intrauterine device (IUD). The characteristics of these patients do not differ markedly from those previously reported in studies on tubal pregnancies, with and without the IUD, but the presentation of patients tends to be more variable than in tubal pregnancies. The increasing incidence noted here, in a population already known to be particularly prone to pelvic inflammatory disease and therefore ectopic pregnancies in general, lends further credence to a questioning of the desirability of the IUD in such a population.", "PMID": 456628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12248", "title": "M\u00fcllerian anomalies: a proposed classification. (An analysis of 144 cases).", "content": "Hospital and clinic charts for 100 patients with diagnosed M\u00fcllerian anomalies were reviewed. Reproductive history, type of therapy, and treatment results for those patients and for another 44 with a history of exposure to diethylstilbestrol and abnormal hysterosalpingographic findings were recorded and evaluated. The anomaly most frequently associated with reproductive failure was the septate uterus. A new classification, based on degree of failure of normal development, was used in separating the anomalies into groups with similar clinical manifestations, treatment, and prognosis for fetal salvage.", "contents": "M\u00fcllerian anomalies: a proposed classification. (An analysis of 144 cases). Hospital and clinic charts for 100 patients with diagnosed M\u00fcllerian anomalies were reviewed. Reproductive history, type of therapy, and treatment results for those patients and for another 44 with a history of exposure to diethylstilbestrol and abnormal hysterosalpingographic findings were recorded and evaluated. The anomaly most frequently associated with reproductive failure was the septate uterus. A new classification, based on degree of failure of normal development, was used in separating the anomalies into groups with similar clinical manifestations, treatment, and prognosis for fetal salvage.", "PMID": 456629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12249", "title": "Alterations in the organic compounds of vaginal secretions caused by sexual arousal.", "content": "The low-molecular weight organic constituents of human vaginal secretions from normally cycling subjects were analyzed both before and after sexual stimulation. Gas chromatography and combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were employed in the analyses of the secretions. Consistent increases were noted for a number of the lipid constituents of the secretions, suggesting that they are derived at least in part from the plasma and transude into the vaginal lumen during arousal. In addition, the increases in the concentrations of glycerol and stearic acid with respect to baseline levels were significant (P is equal to and less than 0.05). Compounds which are produced intravaginally appear to decrease in concentration during the arousal interval because of dilution by the transudate. No consistent qualitative changes were noted in the secretion.", "contents": "Alterations in the organic compounds of vaginal secretions caused by sexual arousal. The low-molecular weight organic constituents of human vaginal secretions from normally cycling subjects were analyzed both before and after sexual stimulation. Gas chromatography and combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were employed in the analyses of the secretions. Consistent increases were noted for a number of the lipid constituents of the secretions, suggesting that they are derived at least in part from the plasma and transude into the vaginal lumen during arousal. In addition, the increases in the concentrations of glycerol and stearic acid with respect to baseline levels were significant (P is equal to and less than 0.05). Compounds which are produced intravaginally appear to decrease in concentration during the arousal interval because of dilution by the transudate. No consistent qualitative changes were noted in the secretion.", "PMID": 456630} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12250", "title": "A practical, objective approach to the evaluation of sperm and cervical mucus in humans.", "content": "Human sperm fertility potential, expressed as a quality index (QI), was evaluated objectively from considerations of sperm velocity, percentage of motile forms, sperm density, and ejaculate volume. Turbidimetry was applied in the quantitation of sperm velocity. High QIs (700) were characteristic of semen samples that were capable of penetrating cervical mucus in capillary tube penetration tests, while low QIs (80) were associated with specimens that did not penetrate mucus. The rate of decline in QI as a function of time postejaculation was determined for samples stored at 37 degrees C and at ambient temperature, providing correction factors for the comparative evaluation of semen samples analyzed at different times. The penetrability of cervical mucus was determined by capillary tube penetration testing. Subsequent chemical analysis of sperm-penetrable and impenetrable samples indicated that the concentrations of mucus nondialyzable solids (NDS), mucins, and soluble proteins were significantly higher in impenetrable specimens. These characteristics were also observed in impenetrable mucus obtained from patients with cervical factor infertility. These studies indicate that it is now feasible to employ mucus [NDS] in the diagnosis of cervical factor infertility and turbidimetry in the evaluation of human sperm quality.", "contents": "A practical, objective approach to the evaluation of sperm and cervical mucus in humans. Human sperm fertility potential, expressed as a quality index (QI), was evaluated objectively from considerations of sperm velocity, percentage of motile forms, sperm density, and ejaculate volume. Turbidimetry was applied in the quantitation of sperm velocity. High QIs (700) were characteristic of semen samples that were capable of penetrating cervical mucus in capillary tube penetration tests, while low QIs (80) were associated with specimens that did not penetrate mucus. The rate of decline in QI as a function of time postejaculation was determined for samples stored at 37 degrees C and at ambient temperature, providing correction factors for the comparative evaluation of semen samples analyzed at different times. The penetrability of cervical mucus was determined by capillary tube penetration testing. Subsequent chemical analysis of sperm-penetrable and impenetrable samples indicated that the concentrations of mucus nondialyzable solids (NDS), mucins, and soluble proteins were significantly higher in impenetrable specimens. These characteristics were also observed in impenetrable mucus obtained from patients with cervical factor infertility. These studies indicate that it is now feasible to employ mucus [NDS] in the diagnosis of cervical factor infertility and turbidimetry in the evaluation of human sperm quality.", "PMID": 456631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12251", "title": "The presence of complement in human cervical mucus and its possible relevance to infertility in women with complement-dependent sperm-immobilizing antibodies.", "content": "Full-complement component lytic activity was measured in human midcycle cervical mucus, using a sensitive 51Cr release hemolytic assay. The level measured was 11.5% of the activity of complement in an equal volume of undiluted human serum. The relevance of this level of complement to complement-dependent sperm-immobilizing antibody activity was studied. After 1 hour's incubation with mucus levels of complement, immobilization of about 50% of spermatozoa occurred and after 3 hours' incubation, immobilization of about 70% of spermatozoa occurred.", "contents": "The presence of complement in human cervical mucus and its possible relevance to infertility in women with complement-dependent sperm-immobilizing antibodies. Full-complement component lytic activity was measured in human midcycle cervical mucus, using a sensitive 51Cr release hemolytic assay. The level measured was 11.5% of the activity of complement in an equal volume of undiluted human serum. The relevance of this level of complement to complement-dependent sperm-immobilizing antibody activity was studied. After 1 hour's incubation with mucus levels of complement, immobilization of about 50% of spermatozoa occurred and after 3 hours' incubation, immobilization of about 70% of spermatozoa occurred.", "PMID": 456632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12252", "title": "The role of antiandrogenic action in cyproterone acetate-induced morphologic and biochemical changes in human semen.", "content": "Following the daily administration of 10 mg of cyproterone acetate to three normal fertile human volunteers for 12 to 16 weeks, there was a marked decrease in the count, motility, and cervical mucus-penetrating ability of spermatozoa, with a concomitant increase in abnormal and immature forms. The levels of seminal acid phosphatase and glycerylphosphoryl choline were also significantly decreased. Subsequently, concurrent daily administration of 75 mg of mesterolone increased the count, motility, and cervical mucus-penetrating ability of spermatozoa and stimulated the seminal biochemical constituents. The results indicate that the effects of a low dose of cyproterone acetate are due mainly to peripheral androgen deprivation.", "contents": "The role of antiandrogenic action in cyproterone acetate-induced morphologic and biochemical changes in human semen. Following the daily administration of 10 mg of cyproterone acetate to three normal fertile human volunteers for 12 to 16 weeks, there was a marked decrease in the count, motility, and cervical mucus-penetrating ability of spermatozoa, with a concomitant increase in abnormal and immature forms. The levels of seminal acid phosphatase and glycerylphosphoryl choline were also significantly decreased. Subsequently, concurrent daily administration of 75 mg of mesterolone increased the count, motility, and cervical mucus-penetrating ability of spermatozoa and stimulated the seminal biochemical constituents. The results indicate that the effects of a low dose of cyproterone acetate are due mainly to peripheral androgen deprivation.", "PMID": 456634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12253", "title": "Seminal fluid prolactin: studies in normal subjects and in hypergonadotropic oligospermia.", "content": "A sensitive radioimmunoassay was developed for the determination of seminal plasma prolactin levels. Prolactin added to normal or oligospermic seminal plasma was fully recoverable, indicating that the seminal plasma of oligospermic patients did not contain interfering substances. A gradient between seminal plasma blood serum prolactin was found in 54 health fertile subjects. No gradient was demonstrable among 13 infertile oligospermic patients who had normal levels of serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone but elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone.", "contents": "Seminal fluid prolactin: studies in normal subjects and in hypergonadotropic oligospermia. A sensitive radioimmunoassay was developed for the determination of seminal plasma prolactin levels. Prolactin added to normal or oligospermic seminal plasma was fully recoverable, indicating that the seminal plasma of oligospermic patients did not contain interfering substances. A gradient between seminal plasma blood serum prolactin was found in 54 health fertile subjects. No gradient was demonstrable among 13 infertile oligospermic patients who had normal levels of serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone but elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone.", "PMID": 456635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12254", "title": "Studies on factors in hamster caudal epididymal plasma and other sources which inhibit sperm dilution damage.", "content": "We observed that hamster caudal epididymal (HCE) plasma could inhibit dilution damage in HCE sperm. Here it is shown that in the absence of HCE plasma survival factors (SF), dilution of HCE sperm led to apparently simultaneous lysis and loss of motility. However, in the presence of HCE plasma, lysis did not occur when HCE sperm motility was blocked by palytoxin. Using a newly developed microassay for SF, significant amounts of SF activity were detected in dog and bovine caudal epididymal plasma, hamster testes exudate, HCE sperm cytosol, human seminal plasma, hamster and bovine adrenal extracts, hen's egg, and human serum. The SF activity of HCE plasma could tolerate restricted periods of boiling or pH extremes but was destroyed by trypsin and protease. Unlike human serum, HCE plasma did not significantly alter HCE sperm respiration or ATP content.", "contents": "Studies on factors in hamster caudal epididymal plasma and other sources which inhibit sperm dilution damage. We observed that hamster caudal epididymal (HCE) plasma could inhibit dilution damage in HCE sperm. Here it is shown that in the absence of HCE plasma survival factors (SF), dilution of HCE sperm led to apparently simultaneous lysis and loss of motility. However, in the presence of HCE plasma, lysis did not occur when HCE sperm motility was blocked by palytoxin. Using a newly developed microassay for SF, significant amounts of SF activity were detected in dog and bovine caudal epididymal plasma, hamster testes exudate, HCE sperm cytosol, human seminal plasma, hamster and bovine adrenal extracts, hen's egg, and human serum. The SF activity of HCE plasma could tolerate restricted periods of boiling or pH extremes but was destroyed by trypsin and protease. Unlike human serum, HCE plasma did not significantly alter HCE sperm respiration or ATP content.", "PMID": 456636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12255", "title": "[Effect of strychnine and picrotoxin on the development of habituation in the visceral analyzer].", "content": "Effects of strychnine and picrotoxin on habituation of cortical potentials evoked by repeated stimulation of the splanchnic nerve were studied in anesthetized and immobilized cats. I. v. administration of strychnine (o.1 mg/kg) or picrotoxin (0.4 mg/kg) did not alter the decrement in evoked potentials. Larger doses of strychnine (0.3 or 0.6 mg/kg) and picrotoxin (0.8 or 2.0 mg/kg) did not block the habituation effects either. Picrotoxin applied to 2nd somatosensory area of the cortex effected amplitude of the negative component of the evoked potentials. Possible mechanisms of the habituation process are discussed.", "contents": "[Effect of strychnine and picrotoxin on the development of habituation in the visceral analyzer]. Effects of strychnine and picrotoxin on habituation of cortical potentials evoked by repeated stimulation of the splanchnic nerve were studied in anesthetized and immobilized cats. I. v. administration of strychnine (o.1 mg/kg) or picrotoxin (0.4 mg/kg) did not alter the decrement in evoked potentials. Larger doses of strychnine (0.3 or 0.6 mg/kg) and picrotoxin (0.8 or 2.0 mg/kg) did not block the habituation effects either. Picrotoxin applied to 2nd somatosensory area of the cortex effected amplitude of the negative component of the evoked potentials. Possible mechanisms of the habituation process are discussed.", "PMID": 456637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12256", "title": "[Interaction of callosal and extracallosal systems].", "content": "Studies of the topography of homotopic transcommissural evoked potentials in 85 symmetrical points of the cat motor cortex, prior to and after section of the corpus callosum, revealed the functional areas as follows: acommissural (53% of the total area), purely callosal (23%), mixed (22%), and purely extracallosal (2%). The summation and reciprocal interrelationships between the callosal and extracion flows spreading over the extracallosal system.", "contents": "[Interaction of callosal and extracallosal systems]. Studies of the topography of homotopic transcommissural evoked potentials in 85 symmetrical points of the cat motor cortex, prior to and after section of the corpus callosum, revealed the functional areas as follows: acommissural (53% of the total area), purely callosal (23%), mixed (22%), and purely extracallosal (2%). The summation and reciprocal interrelationships between the callosal and extracion flows spreading over the extracallosal system.", "PMID": 456638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12257", "title": "[Patterns of afferent signal convergence in the neurons of the frog midbrain tectum].", "content": "The activity of 168 optic tectum units was recorded in conditions of separate and combined actions of light, sound, and pain stimuli. The sensitivity of the neurons to multisensory convergence depended on their spontaneous activity. Excitatory--inhibitory characteristics of responses to unspecific stimuli in most cases were similar to specific responses. Combined action of different stimuli complicated and increased the number of response types.", "contents": "[Patterns of afferent signal convergence in the neurons of the frog midbrain tectum]. The activity of 168 optic tectum units was recorded in conditions of separate and combined actions of light, sound, and pain stimuli. The sensitivity of the neurons to multisensory convergence depended on their spontaneous activity. Excitatory--inhibitory characteristics of responses to unspecific stimuli in most cases were similar to specific responses. Combined action of different stimuli complicated and increased the number of response types.", "PMID": 456639} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12258", "title": "[Convergence of sensory and cortical inputs on caudate nucleus neurons].", "content": "The immobilized cats, the influences of 2nd somatosensory and temporal areas on responses of the caudate nucleus' neurons to stimulation of the tibial and splanchnic nerves, were studied. The majority of spontaneously active neurons responded to the cortical stimulation, mainly from the 2nd somatosensory area. Over half of the neurons revealed the \"binareal\" feature. The typical form of interaction of the cortical and sensory stimuli (with the 50-msec interval between the conditioning and the testing stimuli) was either partial or complete suppression of responses of the caudate neurons both to the somatic and to the visceral stimulation. The results of cortico-sensory interaction were independent of the nature and functional significance of the stimulated cortical areas.", "contents": "[Convergence of sensory and cortical inputs on caudate nucleus neurons]. The immobilized cats, the influences of 2nd somatosensory and temporal areas on responses of the caudate nucleus' neurons to stimulation of the tibial and splanchnic nerves, were studied. The majority of spontaneously active neurons responded to the cortical stimulation, mainly from the 2nd somatosensory area. Over half of the neurons revealed the \"binareal\" feature. The typical form of interaction of the cortical and sensory stimuli (with the 50-msec interval between the conditioning and the testing stimuli) was either partial or complete suppression of responses of the caudate neurons both to the somatic and to the visceral stimulation. The results of cortico-sensory interaction were independent of the nature and functional significance of the stimulated cortical areas.", "PMID": 456640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12259", "title": "[Responses of cat pulvinar neurons to stationary visual stimuli].", "content": "The activity of 130 neurons in pulvinar was investigated using static visual stimuli (light spots of different dimensions flashing in the center of receptive fields, and diffuse flashing light). 50 neurons of 130 did not respond to light stimuli but only to the movement of black stimuli. The majority of investigated neurons revealed \"on--off\" types of reactions to the flashing light spot, 14 neurons gave \"on\" responses, and 28 -- \"off\" responses. The receptive fields of pulvinar neurons had mainly homogenous structure without center and antagonistic surrounding, although some of them appeared to have concentric type of receptive fields. Some neurons revealed responses similar to those of neurons in the Clare--Bishop area. The responses of such neurons were the regular bursts of discharges during the time of stimulation which suggests the compound structure of receptive field with elements of different latency.", "contents": "[Responses of cat pulvinar neurons to stationary visual stimuli]. The activity of 130 neurons in pulvinar was investigated using static visual stimuli (light spots of different dimensions flashing in the center of receptive fields, and diffuse flashing light). 50 neurons of 130 did not respond to light stimuli but only to the movement of black stimuli. The majority of investigated neurons revealed \"on--off\" types of reactions to the flashing light spot, 14 neurons gave \"on\" responses, and 28 -- \"off\" responses. The receptive fields of pulvinar neurons had mainly homogenous structure without center and antagonistic surrounding, although some of them appeared to have concentric type of receptive fields. Some neurons revealed responses similar to those of neurons in the Clare--Bishop area. The responses of such neurons were the regular bursts of discharges during the time of stimulation which suggests the compound structure of receptive field with elements of different latency.", "PMID": 456641} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12260", "title": "[Inhibition and space-frequency characteristics of the complex receptive fields of the cat visual cortex].", "content": "Responses of complex receptive fields of the cat straitum to moving sinusoidal grating were studied. Stimulation of the receptive field with some spatial frequencies suppresses spontaneous discharges. Responses of the receptive field corroborate previously made predictions that the spatial--frequency characteristics of the receptive field should have the main and the secondary maximums and negative areas in case the complex fields perform piece-wise Fourier--transformation of image. The changes of impulse frequency in field's response are predicted by comparing the changes of instantaneous spectrum of grating entering the field with spatial frequency characteristic of the field. The data evidence that the complex field is rather a spatial--frequency filter than a detector. Some complex fields reveal a lateral inhibitory area behind the field's nucleus in direction of stimulus movement. The complex fields with no lateral inhibitory areas seem to serve for piece Fourier--description of image, those with lateral areas--for picking out the countour between textures.", "contents": "[Inhibition and space-frequency characteristics of the complex receptive fields of the cat visual cortex]. Responses of complex receptive fields of the cat straitum to moving sinusoidal grating were studied. Stimulation of the receptive field with some spatial frequencies suppresses spontaneous discharges. Responses of the receptive field corroborate previously made predictions that the spatial--frequency characteristics of the receptive field should have the main and the secondary maximums and negative areas in case the complex fields perform piece-wise Fourier--transformation of image. The changes of impulse frequency in field's response are predicted by comparing the changes of instantaneous spectrum of grating entering the field with spatial frequency characteristic of the field. The data evidence that the complex field is rather a spatial--frequency filter than a detector. Some complex fields reveal a lateral inhibitory area behind the field's nucleus in direction of stimulus movement. The complex fields with no lateral inhibitory areas seem to serve for piece Fourier--description of image, those with lateral areas--for picking out the countour between textures.", "PMID": 456643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12261", "title": "[Coding visual information in frogs by means of the latent periods of neuronal responses].", "content": "The difference between latencies of responses of the retina ganglionic cells and the neurons of the midbrain tectum in frogs seems to be a way of coding visual signals which indicates the probability of the coherent principle of visual information processing. In combination with the probability-statistical principle, this can serve as a basis for high reliability, plasticity, and polyfunctional character of neuronal mechanisms of the visual analysis.", "contents": "[Coding visual information in frogs by means of the latent periods of neuronal responses]. The difference between latencies of responses of the retina ganglionic cells and the neurons of the midbrain tectum in frogs seems to be a way of coding visual signals which indicates the probability of the coherent principle of visual information processing. In combination with the probability-statistical principle, this can serve as a basis for high reliability, plasticity, and polyfunctional character of neuronal mechanisms of the visual analysis.", "PMID": 456644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12262", "title": "[Cerebral circulatory autoregulation in the presence of orthostatic stimuli].", "content": "Autoregulation of cerebral blood flow (ACBF) under orthostatic tests (OT) was estimated in acute experiments on rabbits and cats under local anesthesia according to changes of perfusion pressure (PP) in carotid arteries, cerebral blood flow, pressure in the venous system of the brain, and resistance of cerebral vessels. OT was modeled by turning a special table with animal fixed stop of it from horizontal position to head up or down position for 40--80 degrees. In most experiments ACBF correlated with the changes of PP. Different variations of ACBF and its possible mechanisms are discussed.", "contents": "[Cerebral circulatory autoregulation in the presence of orthostatic stimuli]. Autoregulation of cerebral blood flow (ACBF) under orthostatic tests (OT) was estimated in acute experiments on rabbits and cats under local anesthesia according to changes of perfusion pressure (PP) in carotid arteries, cerebral blood flow, pressure in the venous system of the brain, and resistance of cerebral vessels. OT was modeled by turning a special table with animal fixed stop of it from horizontal position to head up or down position for 40--80 degrees. In most experiments ACBF correlated with the changes of PP. Different variations of ACBF and its possible mechanisms are discussed.", "PMID": 456645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12263", "title": "[Sensitivity of a small artery of the muscular type to blood flow velocity: self-adjustment reaction of the artery's lumen].", "content": "The external diameter of the artery predominantly supplying the gracilis muscle was recorded by contact inductive transducer in anesthetized dogs. Blood flow from this artery was directed via an A--V shunt straight into the vein. An increase in blood flow from 4.9+/-0.7 to 45.5+/-6.6 ml/min with a latency of 11.3+/-1.3 sec evoked an increase of 12.6+/-1.3% in the diameter of this artery. Dilatation was independent of whether intravascular pressure at the recording site increased, decreased, or remained unchanged. The smooth arterial muscles seem to be able to \"sense\" the deformation and, as a result their arteries can automatically change their lumen in response to changes in blood flow velocity.", "contents": "[Sensitivity of a small artery of the muscular type to blood flow velocity: self-adjustment reaction of the artery's lumen]. The external diameter of the artery predominantly supplying the gracilis muscle was recorded by contact inductive transducer in anesthetized dogs. Blood flow from this artery was directed via an A--V shunt straight into the vein. An increase in blood flow from 4.9+/-0.7 to 45.5+/-6.6 ml/min with a latency of 11.3+/-1.3 sec evoked an increase of 12.6+/-1.3% in the diameter of this artery. Dilatation was independent of whether intravascular pressure at the recording site increased, decreased, or remained unchanged. The smooth arterial muscles seem to be able to \"sense\" the deformation and, as a result their arteries can automatically change their lumen in response to changes in blood flow velocity.", "PMID": 456648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12264", "title": "[Pancreatic atrophy: its effect on the plasma concentration of pancreatic polpeptide, gastrin and motilin in dogs].", "content": "One hour postprandial responses of plasma concentrations of pancreatic polypeptide, gastrin and motilin were detected in healthy dogs. Pancreatic atrophy was produced in these animals by obstructing their pancreatic juice flow. Basal hormone concentrations in four animals did not change significantly during 11 months of pancreatic atrophy. During this period the animals displayed a significant postprandial response. These preliminary results suggest that hormonal mechanisms involved in the digestive process are maintained during pancreatic atrophy.", "contents": "[Pancreatic atrophy: its effect on the plasma concentration of pancreatic polpeptide, gastrin and motilin in dogs]. One hour postprandial responses of plasma concentrations of pancreatic polypeptide, gastrin and motilin were detected in healthy dogs. Pancreatic atrophy was produced in these animals by obstructing their pancreatic juice flow. Basal hormone concentrations in four animals did not change significantly during 11 months of pancreatic atrophy. During this period the animals displayed a significant postprandial response. These preliminary results suggest that hormonal mechanisms involved in the digestive process are maintained during pancreatic atrophy.", "PMID": 456649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12265", "title": "[Afferent cortico-cortical connections of the orbito-frontal cortex].", "content": "Relations of frontal and orbital sections of the prefrontal cortex with different sections of neocortex were studied in cats by means of acute strychnine neurography. Afferent cortical connections of orbital and frontal sections did not differ much in their organization. Both sections had direct efferent cortical connections with motor, somatosensory and the rostral sections of the secondary auditory zone. Primary auditory field, visual and parietal associative cortex of suprasylvian gyrus had no direct afferent connections with orbito--frontal cortex. The cortico--cortical connections of orbito--frontal cortex with motor, somatosensory, and rostral sections of insular zone of neocortex appeared to be bilateral.", "contents": "[Afferent cortico-cortical connections of the orbito-frontal cortex]. Relations of frontal and orbital sections of the prefrontal cortex with different sections of neocortex were studied in cats by means of acute strychnine neurography. Afferent cortical connections of orbital and frontal sections did not differ much in their organization. Both sections had direct efferent cortical connections with motor, somatosensory and the rostral sections of the secondary auditory zone. Primary auditory field, visual and parietal associative cortex of suprasylvian gyrus had no direct afferent connections with orbito--frontal cortex. The cortico--cortical connections of orbito--frontal cortex with motor, somatosensory, and rostral sections of insular zone of neocortex appeared to be bilateral.", "PMID": 456650} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12266", "title": "[Changes in the ultrastructure and protein fractions of the cortex of the motor and visual analyzers during conditioned reflex avoidance reactions].", "content": "In avoidance conditioning, rats developed changes in the range of electrophoretic proteins as well as subcellular reconstructions in neurons and synapses which enabled them to fulfill specific functions on the basis of genetically fixed biochemical processes and ultrastructures. This corroborates ideas of information storage in the c. n. s. on the basis of formation of certain neuronal ensembles by means of changes in neurons' synapses facilitating the conduction.", "contents": "[Changes in the ultrastructure and protein fractions of the cortex of the motor and visual analyzers during conditioned reflex avoidance reactions]. In avoidance conditioning, rats developed changes in the range of electrophoretic proteins as well as subcellular reconstructions in neurons and synapses which enabled them to fulfill specific functions on the basis of genetically fixed biochemical processes and ultrastructures. This corroborates ideas of information storage in the c. n. s. on the basis of formation of certain neuronal ensembles by means of changes in neurons' synapses facilitating the conduction.", "PMID": 456651} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12267", "title": "[Relationship between the minute superslow oscillations and the level of energy supply in brain tissue].", "content": "In animals, an increase in glycolysis intensity and processes of oxidative phosphorylation in the brain correlated with the steady potential shifts within the range of 0--1.0 Hz in the neocortex, dorsal hippocampus, and thalamic nuclei. The neurotropic drug ethymizol revealed two effects depending on the initial functional state of the rabbit: 2.5 mg/kg of the drug enhanced the amplitude of the minute waves in the frontal neocortex and dorsal hippocampus, increasing the metabolic rate in the unsteady period of conditioning, whereas after the fast conditioning the drug rendered background values to the minute oscillations and elongated the extinction of conditioned reflexes. The ethymizol appears to be an unspecific connector.", "contents": "[Relationship between the minute superslow oscillations and the level of energy supply in brain tissue]. In animals, an increase in glycolysis intensity and processes of oxidative phosphorylation in the brain correlated with the steady potential shifts within the range of 0--1.0 Hz in the neocortex, dorsal hippocampus, and thalamic nuclei. The neurotropic drug ethymizol revealed two effects depending on the initial functional state of the rabbit: 2.5 mg/kg of the drug enhanced the amplitude of the minute waves in the frontal neocortex and dorsal hippocampus, increasing the metabolic rate in the unsteady period of conditioning, whereas after the fast conditioning the drug rendered background values to the minute oscillations and elongated the extinction of conditioned reflexes. The ethymizol appears to be an unspecific connector.", "PMID": 456652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12268", "title": "[Monoamine oxidase activity and noradrenaline concentration in tissue from symmetrical areas of cerebral cortex].", "content": "Tissue of the human brain cortex was obtained for investigations in neurosurgical operations and in autopsy. Homogenates of the tissue of symmetrical visual, auditory and skin areas were similar in the monoamine oxidase activity and adrenalin content whereas homogenates of the motor cortex tissue differed from each other in these parameters. Samples of tissue of the written language center were asymmetrical in their monoamine oxidase activity.", "contents": "[Monoamine oxidase activity and noradrenaline concentration in tissue from symmetrical areas of cerebral cortex]. Tissue of the human brain cortex was obtained for investigations in neurosurgical operations and in autopsy. Homogenates of the tissue of symmetrical visual, auditory and skin areas were similar in the monoamine oxidase activity and adrenalin content whereas homogenates of the motor cortex tissue differed from each other in these parameters. Samples of tissue of the written language center were asymmetrical in their monoamine oxidase activity.", "PMID": 456654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12269", "title": "[Several details of the ultrastructural organization of the blood-brain barrier in humans and animals].", "content": "Electron microscope study of capillaries, arterioles, and venules of the cerebral cortex, strio--pallidar and nonneurosecretory complexes of hypothalamus of the man, cat, and rat revealed some details of the structure of the basal membrane and its interrelationship with adjacent astrocyte processes. Specific tight--junction type was present constantly among the adjacent membranes of glial cells. The system of the specializations and basal membrane seems to exert regulatory influence upon functioning of the blood--brain barrier.", "contents": "[Several details of the ultrastructural organization of the blood-brain barrier in humans and animals]. Electron microscope study of capillaries, arterioles, and venules of the cerebral cortex, strio--pallidar and nonneurosecretory complexes of hypothalamus of the man, cat, and rat revealed some details of the structure of the basal membrane and its interrelationship with adjacent astrocyte processes. Specific tight--junction type was present constantly among the adjacent membranes of glial cells. The system of the specializations and basal membrane seems to exert regulatory influence upon functioning of the blood--brain barrier.", "PMID": 456655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12270", "title": "[Morphometric and cytochemical parameters of skeletal muscle during long-term physical exertion].", "content": "Daily swimming for 40 days increased weight of the fast (gastrocnemius) and slow (soleus) muscles in white rats and altered the size of plane section and the relative amount of different fibers in the muscles. The slow muscle developed an anaerobic spectrum of lactatdehydrogenase isoenzymes characteristic of an intact fast muscle, whereas the fast muscle intensified its specific \"muscular\" spectrum of isoenzymes. By the 40th day the parameters under study tended to normalize.", "contents": "[Morphometric and cytochemical parameters of skeletal muscle during long-term physical exertion]. Daily swimming for 40 days increased weight of the fast (gastrocnemius) and slow (soleus) muscles in white rats and altered the size of plane section and the relative amount of different fibers in the muscles. The slow muscle developed an anaerobic spectrum of lactatdehydrogenase isoenzymes characteristic of an intact fast muscle, whereas the fast muscle intensified its specific \"muscular\" spectrum of isoenzymes. By the 40th day the parameters under study tended to normalize.", "PMID": 456656} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12271", "title": "[Skeletal muscle motor unit activity in cats during cold tremors].", "content": "The electrical activity of single motor units of the cat m. sartorious during the preshivering tone and shivering tremor revealed a steady frequency 5--10/sec. The transition from preshivering tone to shivering tremor involved recruitment of motor units with similar properties: the low--threshold units. The response of motor units to local thermal stimuli applied to vascular thermoreceptors depended on the level of peripheral temperature.", "contents": "[Skeletal muscle motor unit activity in cats during cold tremors]. The electrical activity of single motor units of the cat m. sartorious during the preshivering tone and shivering tremor revealed a steady frequency 5--10/sec. The transition from preshivering tone to shivering tremor involved recruitment of motor units with similar properties: the low--threshold units. The response of motor units to local thermal stimuli applied to vascular thermoreceptors depended on the level of peripheral temperature.", "PMID": 456657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12272", "title": "[Nature of vagotomy and atropine hypercoagulation].", "content": "Bilateral vagotomy and i. v. administration of atropin entailed shortening of total and thrombin time and lowering of fybrinolysis. The vagotomy brought about the changes within 3--15 min, whereas the atropinization evoked them in about 30--60 min. The maximum shortening of total and thrombin time and lowering of fibrinolysis occurred at the moment of highest activity of the cervical sympathetic system. Thereupon these effects in the blood coagulating system seem to be called forth by activity of the sympathetic system after vagotomy.", "contents": "[Nature of vagotomy and atropine hypercoagulation]. Bilateral vagotomy and i. v. administration of atropin entailed shortening of total and thrombin time and lowering of fybrinolysis. The vagotomy brought about the changes within 3--15 min, whereas the atropinization evoked them in about 30--60 min. The maximum shortening of total and thrombin time and lowering of fibrinolysis occurred at the moment of highest activity of the cervical sympathetic system. Thereupon these effects in the blood coagulating system seem to be called forth by activity of the sympathetic system after vagotomy.", "PMID": 456658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12273", "title": "[Dynamics of peripheral nerve procoagulant and fibrinolytic activity upon electrical stimulation].", "content": "The amount of procoagulative and fibrinolytic agents in cellular organoids was studied in the cat n. ischiadicus. All cellular fractions revealed high thromboplastic activity. Plasminogen, its activator, and proactivator were discovered in the ischiadic nerve. In dogs, the changes of functional state of nerves were accompanied by discharging of tissue thromboplastin and stimulators of fibrinolysis into the external medium with stimulaneous changes of intracellular contents of hemocoagulating factors. Thus, electric stimulation of the nerve intensified its thromboplastic activity, increased concentration of analogs of the plasma factors (II, VII, IX) and stimulation of fibrinolytic agents. The data obtained suggest presence of close enough interaction between the changes of functional condition of cells and dynamics of their procoagulative and fibrinolytic power.", "contents": "[Dynamics of peripheral nerve procoagulant and fibrinolytic activity upon electrical stimulation]. The amount of procoagulative and fibrinolytic agents in cellular organoids was studied in the cat n. ischiadicus. All cellular fractions revealed high thromboplastic activity. Plasminogen, its activator, and proactivator were discovered in the ischiadic nerve. In dogs, the changes of functional state of nerves were accompanied by discharging of tissue thromboplastin and stimulators of fibrinolysis into the external medium with stimulaneous changes of intracellular contents of hemocoagulating factors. Thus, electric stimulation of the nerve intensified its thromboplastic activity, increased concentration of analogs of the plasma factors (II, VII, IX) and stimulation of fibrinolytic agents. The data obtained suggest presence of close enough interaction between the changes of functional condition of cells and dynamics of their procoagulative and fibrinolytic power.", "PMID": 456659} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12274", "title": "[Participation of the small intestine in intermediary lipid metabolism].", "content": "Data obtained in preliminarily operated healthy animals with the aid of a single or repeated lipid load achieved by means of heptadecan acid, showed that the C17:0 acid becomes involved in processes of lipid synthesis in the intestine epithelium, absorbed in the gastro-intestinal tract, and spread by the blood over different tissues, including the isolated loop of small intestine, in the form of various complex lipids. The small intestine appears to be a depot of lipids accumulating products which can be reabsorbed from the intestine lumen. As the depot reguires no hormonal or enzymatic mechanisms for mobilizing the resources, it has its advantages and is rather mobile. The \"depots\" ready for reabsorption of lipids in the intestine lumen appear to be one of the mechanisms for maintenance of homeostasis of nutritional substances within the organism.", "contents": "[Participation of the small intestine in intermediary lipid metabolism]. Data obtained in preliminarily operated healthy animals with the aid of a single or repeated lipid load achieved by means of heptadecan acid, showed that the C17:0 acid becomes involved in processes of lipid synthesis in the intestine epithelium, absorbed in the gastro-intestinal tract, and spread by the blood over different tissues, including the isolated loop of small intestine, in the form of various complex lipids. The small intestine appears to be a depot of lipids accumulating products which can be reabsorbed from the intestine lumen. As the depot reguires no hormonal or enzymatic mechanisms for mobilizing the resources, it has its advantages and is rather mobile. The \"depots\" ready for reabsorption of lipids in the intestine lumen appear to be one of the mechanisms for maintenance of homeostasis of nutritional substances within the organism.", "PMID": 456662} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12275", "title": "[Nonsynaptic effect of the ECoG of the intact hemisphere on the impulse activity of neuronally isolated cortex].", "content": "In immobilized cats with neuronally-isolated cortex the nonsynaptic influence of the ECoG from the visual area of intact hemisphere upon unit activity of the visual and Clare-Bishop areas of the neuronally-isolated cortex was studied in the dark and during diffuse flash stimulation. Tonic unit reactions in the dark and tonic and phasic unit reactions to diffuse flash stimulation occurred in the visual and Clare-Bishop areas of the neuronally-isolated cortex. The possible nonsynaptic ECoG influence of the intact hemisphere on the activation of the neuronally-isolated cortical units is discussed.", "contents": "[Nonsynaptic effect of the ECoG of the intact hemisphere on the impulse activity of neuronally isolated cortex]. In immobilized cats with neuronally-isolated cortex the nonsynaptic influence of the ECoG from the visual area of intact hemisphere upon unit activity of the visual and Clare-Bishop areas of the neuronally-isolated cortex was studied in the dark and during diffuse flash stimulation. Tonic unit reactions in the dark and tonic and phasic unit reactions to diffuse flash stimulation occurred in the visual and Clare-Bishop areas of the neuronally-isolated cortex. The possible nonsynaptic ECoG influence of the intact hemisphere on the activation of the neuronally-isolated cortical units is discussed.", "PMID": 456664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12276", "title": "[Effect of hyperoxia on oxygen tension in the blood and brain tissue].", "content": "Changes of the oxygen tension in the surface layers of cerebral cortex (PtO2) and arterial blood (PaO2) in the conditions of hyperoxia occurred in anesthetized rabbits: raising of O2 partial pressure in altitude chamber to 1.0 and 2.0 kgs/cm2 increased PaO2 from 76.5 +/- 11.4 mm Hg to 472.3 +/- 63.1 and 1138.0 +/- 79.4 mm Hg respectively. Raising of O2 partial pressure in altitude chamber from 0.2 to 6.0 kgs/cm2 increased PtO2 from 34.9 +/- 12.0 to 1087.5 +/- 149.8 mm Hg. Obvious defence reactions of the organism developed at the moment of transition from air breathing to pure oxygen breathing under the pressure of 1.0 kgs/cm2. High effectiveness of these reactions preserved with the raising of pressure to 3.0 kgs/cm2 and weakened with the further raising of pressure to 4.0-6.0 kgs/cm2. With prolongation of exposure to the 2.0-3.0 kgs/cm2 pressure the defence reactions slackened as well.", "contents": "[Effect of hyperoxia on oxygen tension in the blood and brain tissue]. Changes of the oxygen tension in the surface layers of cerebral cortex (PtO2) and arterial blood (PaO2) in the conditions of hyperoxia occurred in anesthetized rabbits: raising of O2 partial pressure in altitude chamber to 1.0 and 2.0 kgs/cm2 increased PaO2 from 76.5 +/- 11.4 mm Hg to 472.3 +/- 63.1 and 1138.0 +/- 79.4 mm Hg respectively. Raising of O2 partial pressure in altitude chamber from 0.2 to 6.0 kgs/cm2 increased PtO2 from 34.9 +/- 12.0 to 1087.5 +/- 149.8 mm Hg. Obvious defence reactions of the organism developed at the moment of transition from air breathing to pure oxygen breathing under the pressure of 1.0 kgs/cm2. High effectiveness of these reactions preserved with the raising of pressure to 3.0 kgs/cm2 and weakened with the further raising of pressure to 4.0-6.0 kgs/cm2. With prolongation of exposure to the 2.0-3.0 kgs/cm2 pressure the defence reactions slackened as well.", "PMID": 456665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12277", "title": "[Dopamine concentration in the nigrostriatal system during electrical stimulation of the head of the caudate nucleus].", "content": "The high-frequency (50/sec) stimulation of the caudate nucleus head increases the level of dophamine in the area under stimulation with simultaneous drop of dophamine content in the rest of the nucleus. The dophamine content, however, does not change in the black substance or in the putamen. The 2/sec stimulation has no effect upon the dophamine content in the area under stimulation or in the black substance but increases its level in the rest of the caudate nucleus with simultaneous decrease of the dophamine in the putamen.", "contents": "[Dopamine concentration in the nigrostriatal system during electrical stimulation of the head of the caudate nucleus]. The high-frequency (50/sec) stimulation of the caudate nucleus head increases the level of dophamine in the area under stimulation with simultaneous drop of dophamine content in the rest of the nucleus. The dophamine content, however, does not change in the black substance or in the putamen. The 2/sec stimulation has no effect upon the dophamine content in the area under stimulation or in the black substance but increases its level in the rest of the caudate nucleus with simultaneous decrease of the dophamine in the putamen.", "PMID": 456666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12278", "title": "[Interrelationship between the phenomena of divergence and convergence in the reflex activity of the spinal cord].", "content": "In acute experiments on cats, a single electrical stimulus applied to the afferent fibers of the sacral nerve elicits electrical responses of the efferent fibers of this nerve, as well as of other ones, i.e. pelvic and sympathetic trunks in the lumbosacral region (divergence); and the efferent fibers of the sacral nerve respond to stimulation not only through its afferent fibers but also in the said nerve trunks (convergence). A similar pattern occurs during separate electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerve and sympathetic trunk, and of L4 to S3 dorsal roots, with monitoring electrical responses of the corresponding nerves and ventral roots. A close relationship between the divergence and convergence seems to exist.", "contents": "[Interrelationship between the phenomena of divergence and convergence in the reflex activity of the spinal cord]. In acute experiments on cats, a single electrical stimulus applied to the afferent fibers of the sacral nerve elicits electrical responses of the efferent fibers of this nerve, as well as of other ones, i.e. pelvic and sympathetic trunks in the lumbosacral region (divergence); and the efferent fibers of the sacral nerve respond to stimulation not only through its afferent fibers but also in the said nerve trunks (convergence). A similar pattern occurs during separate electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerve and sympathetic trunk, and of L4 to S3 dorsal roots, with monitoring electrical responses of the corresponding nerves and ventral roots. A close relationship between the divergence and convergence seems to exist.", "PMID": 456668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12279", "title": "[Blood flow in skeletal muscle microvessels in normoxia and arterial hypoxemia (microcinematographic studies)].", "content": "Vital microfilming revealed peculiarities of blood flow in microvessels of 2-5-micron diameter under relatively resting conditions, in normoxia, as well as the microcirculatory response to hypoxia (breathing with mixture of nitrogen and 6-8% oxygen for 5 min), in intact temporal muscle of rat. The average blood flow velocity in normoxia was 1.14 +/- 0.04 mm/sec in capillaries and 2.43 +/- 0.08 mm/sec in terminal arterioles. Breathing with the hypoxic mixture decelerated blood flow in 75% of the vessels. The blood low velocity in the muscle capillaries correlated with arterial blood pressure.", "contents": "[Blood flow in skeletal muscle microvessels in normoxia and arterial hypoxemia (microcinematographic studies)]. Vital microfilming revealed peculiarities of blood flow in microvessels of 2-5-micron diameter under relatively resting conditions, in normoxia, as well as the microcirculatory response to hypoxia (breathing with mixture of nitrogen and 6-8% oxygen for 5 min), in intact temporal muscle of rat. The average blood flow velocity in normoxia was 1.14 +/- 0.04 mm/sec in capillaries and 2.43 +/- 0.08 mm/sec in terminal arterioles. Breathing with the hypoxic mixture decelerated blood flow in 75% of the vessels. The blood low velocity in the muscle capillaries correlated with arterial blood pressure.", "PMID": 456672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12280", "title": "[Analysis of focal potentials in the cat cerebral cortex during activation of cerebello-thalamo-cortical projection systems].", "content": "Peculiarities of topographical distribution of responses of the cat cerebral cortex to stimulation of cerebellar and thalamic (ventro-lateral and ventral anterior) nuclei as well as cerebello-thalamo-cortical projection system and comparison between the cerebellar and thalamic responses revealed differences in focal potentials evoked in pericruciate and parietal cortex. The latencies of the potentials, similarity in shape and in depth of reversion suggest that the cerebello-cortical responses in the pericruciate cortex are mediated through the thalamic ventro-lateral nucleus making synapses in III-IV cortical layers while responses in the parietal cortex--through the thalamic ventral anterior nucleus making synapses in more superficial layers.", "contents": "[Analysis of focal potentials in the cat cerebral cortex during activation of cerebello-thalamo-cortical projection systems]. Peculiarities of topographical distribution of responses of the cat cerebral cortex to stimulation of cerebellar and thalamic (ventro-lateral and ventral anterior) nuclei as well as cerebello-thalamo-cortical projection system and comparison between the cerebellar and thalamic responses revealed differences in focal potentials evoked in pericruciate and parietal cortex. The latencies of the potentials, similarity in shape and in depth of reversion suggest that the cerebello-cortical responses in the pericruciate cortex are mediated through the thalamic ventro-lateral nucleus making synapses in III-IV cortical layers while responses in the parietal cortex--through the thalamic ventral anterior nucleus making synapses in more superficial layers.", "PMID": 456677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12281", "title": "[Impulse reactions of cortico-spinal neurons to stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus].", "content": "In anesthetized cats, evoked responses of pyramidal tract (PT) cells to lateral hypothalamus (LH) stimulation were studied in pericruciate cortex. The PT cells responded to hypothalamic stimulation with latencies ranging from 1.6 to 52.5 msec and were situated between 0.75 and 2.5 mm below the pial surface. Orthodromic spikes of PT neurons occurred more readily during stimulation of caudal part of the LH. PT neurons activated by the LH stimulation were also tested with electro-skin stimulation of limbs: 75% of the neurons responded to stimulation of several limbs and had large bilateral receptive fields, 15%--to one contralateral limb stimulation and had small contralateral receptive fields. The time of involvement of PT cells in the responses to hypothalamic or somesthetic signal had no correlation with the type of these neurons according to their axonal conduction velocity.", "contents": "[Impulse reactions of cortico-spinal neurons to stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus]. In anesthetized cats, evoked responses of pyramidal tract (PT) cells to lateral hypothalamus (LH) stimulation were studied in pericruciate cortex. The PT cells responded to hypothalamic stimulation with latencies ranging from 1.6 to 52.5 msec and were situated between 0.75 and 2.5 mm below the pial surface. Orthodromic spikes of PT neurons occurred more readily during stimulation of caudal part of the LH. PT neurons activated by the LH stimulation were also tested with electro-skin stimulation of limbs: 75% of the neurons responded to stimulation of several limbs and had large bilateral receptive fields, 15%--to one contralateral limb stimulation and had small contralateral receptive fields. The time of involvement of PT cells in the responses to hypothalamic or somesthetic signal had no correlation with the type of these neurons according to their axonal conduction velocity.", "PMID": 456679} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12282", "title": "[Evoked potentials in the guinea pig midbrain reticular formation in response to light flashes].", "content": "Spatial distribution of the visual evoked potentials in the midbrain reticular formation of the guinea pig in response to flashes revealed polyphasic primarily positive evoked potentials with shorter latency than in visual cortex. The area with maximum amplitude of evoked potentials was found in rostro-medial and middle part of the dorsal midbrain reticular formation.", "contents": "[Evoked potentials in the guinea pig midbrain reticular formation in response to light flashes]. Spatial distribution of the visual evoked potentials in the midbrain reticular formation of the guinea pig in response to flashes revealed polyphasic primarily positive evoked potentials with shorter latency than in visual cortex. The area with maximum amplitude of evoked potentials was found in rostro-medial and middle part of the dorsal midbrain reticular formation.", "PMID": 456680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12283", "title": "[Orientation of the catfish in uniform and nonuniform electric fields].", "content": "Experiments with conditioning revealed that catfish showed compass orientation with precision about 20 degrees using a direction of homogeneous horizontally directed weak electric field with current density of 1.5 . 10(-11) A/mm2 in water with a specific resistance of 15 Ohm-m. Similar fields occur in their habitat. The catfish used the current density gradient for directed movements in the unhomogenous field. The lowest current density gradient in which the catfish showed the orientation behaviour proved to be 3.6 x 10(-12) A/mm2 per 1-mm distance. The possible mechanism of electro-orientation and its functional significance, are discussed.", "contents": "[Orientation of the catfish in uniform and nonuniform electric fields]. Experiments with conditioning revealed that catfish showed compass orientation with precision about 20 degrees using a direction of homogeneous horizontally directed weak electric field with current density of 1.5 . 10(-11) A/mm2 in water with a specific resistance of 15 Ohm-m. Similar fields occur in their habitat. The catfish used the current density gradient for directed movements in the unhomogenous field. The lowest current density gradient in which the catfish showed the orientation behaviour proved to be 3.6 x 10(-12) A/mm2 per 1-mm distance. The possible mechanism of electro-orientation and its functional significance, are discussed.", "PMID": 456681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12284", "title": "[Change in optokinetic, postoptokonetic and reverse postoptokinetic nystagmus after bilateral labyrinthectomy].", "content": "The frequency of optokinetic, postoptokinetic, and reverse postoptokinetic nystagmi in rabbits sharply decreased while the amplitude remained practically the same, after bilateral labyrinthectomy. This suggests that labyrinthectomy disturbs function of the system for slow tracing movements while the system for fast saccadic movements does not suffer.", "contents": "[Change in optokinetic, postoptokonetic and reverse postoptokinetic nystagmus after bilateral labyrinthectomy]. The frequency of optokinetic, postoptokinetic, and reverse postoptokinetic nystagmi in rabbits sharply decreased while the amplitude remained practically the same, after bilateral labyrinthectomy. This suggests that labyrinthectomy disturbs function of the system for slow tracing movements while the system for fast saccadic movements does not suffer.", "PMID": 456682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12285", "title": "[Activation of the anticoagulation system following intravenous administration of beta-thrombin].", "content": "Beta-thrombin possessing high esterase activity and tracing coagulating ability, being product of limited proteolysis of alpha-thrombin in vitro, accelerates recalcification time and thrombin generation in plasma, but not the conversion of prothrombin to enzyme. Thus, beta-thrombin is the activator of early stages of blood coagulation, does not possess fibrinolytic activity and does not activate plasminogen. The i. v. administration of beta-thrombin to rats induces changes in blood coagulability which are accompanied by an increase in plasma recalcification time, total fibrinolytic activity and non-enzymatic fibrinolysis. Nothing of the kind occurs after administration alpha-thrombin, having tracing clotting activity similar to R-thrombin activity. The data obtained suggest the possibility of reflex activation of the anticoagulating system by beta-thrombin or undirectly by alpha-thrombin generated by beta-thrombin activation at early stages of blood coagulation.", "contents": "[Activation of the anticoagulation system following intravenous administration of beta-thrombin]. Beta-thrombin possessing high esterase activity and tracing coagulating ability, being product of limited proteolysis of alpha-thrombin in vitro, accelerates recalcification time and thrombin generation in plasma, but not the conversion of prothrombin to enzyme. Thus, beta-thrombin is the activator of early stages of blood coagulation, does not possess fibrinolytic activity and does not activate plasminogen. The i. v. administration of beta-thrombin to rats induces changes in blood coagulability which are accompanied by an increase in plasma recalcification time, total fibrinolytic activity and non-enzymatic fibrinolysis. Nothing of the kind occurs after administration alpha-thrombin, having tracing clotting activity similar to R-thrombin activity. The data obtained suggest the possibility of reflex activation of the anticoagulating system by beta-thrombin or undirectly by alpha-thrombin generated by beta-thrombin activation at early stages of blood coagulation.", "PMID": 456683} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12286", "title": "[2-component contraction of mammalian myocardium due to noradrenaline].", "content": "The effect of noradrenaline (2 mg/l) on contractile response, its first derivative, and transmembrane action potential of isolated papillary muscles of guinea pigs, was studied. The muscles were continuously superfused with normal Tyrode's solution at 20-22 degrees C and stimulated at 0.3 Hz. Under the effect of noradrenaline the contraction consisted of two components which became more obvious at low-frequency stimulation or in the first contraction after a long resting period, the second component's amplitude being increased, at that. The increase corresponded to prolongation of the AP. In presence of noradrenaline the Bowditch's staircase became positive.", "contents": "[2-component contraction of mammalian myocardium due to noradrenaline]. The effect of noradrenaline (2 mg/l) on contractile response, its first derivative, and transmembrane action potential of isolated papillary muscles of guinea pigs, was studied. The muscles were continuously superfused with normal Tyrode's solution at 20-22 degrees C and stimulated at 0.3 Hz. Under the effect of noradrenaline the contraction consisted of two components which became more obvious at low-frequency stimulation or in the first contraction after a long resting period, the second component's amplitude being increased, at that. The increase corresponded to prolongation of the AP. In presence of noradrenaline the Bowditch's staircase became positive.", "PMID": 456684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12287", "title": "[Nature of the 2-component contraction of mammalian myocardium due to noradrenaline].", "content": "The effects of verapamil (5 mg/l) and caffeine (1 g/l) on two-component contraction were studied in isolated papillary muscles of guinea pigs, bathed in normal Tyrode's solution at 20-22 degrees C, containing 2 mg/l noradrenaline. The 1st derivative of contractile response and transmembrane AP were simultaneously recorded. Verapamil suppressed the amplitude of the 2nd component and did not affect the 1st component of contraction. Caffeine eliminated the 1st component and somewhat increased the 2nd component of contraction. The Ca ions from two different pools seem to take part in activation of the two-component contraction: 1) released from sarcoplasmic reticulum and 2) crossing a cell membrane during the plateau of the AP.", "contents": "[Nature of the 2-component contraction of mammalian myocardium due to noradrenaline]. The effects of verapamil (5 mg/l) and caffeine (1 g/l) on two-component contraction were studied in isolated papillary muscles of guinea pigs, bathed in normal Tyrode's solution at 20-22 degrees C, containing 2 mg/l noradrenaline. The 1st derivative of contractile response and transmembrane AP were simultaneously recorded. Verapamil suppressed the amplitude of the 2nd component and did not affect the 1st component of contraction. Caffeine eliminated the 1st component and somewhat increased the 2nd component of contraction. The Ca ions from two different pools seem to take part in activation of the two-component contraction: 1) released from sarcoplasmic reticulum and 2) crossing a cell membrane during the plateau of the AP.", "PMID": 456685} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12288", "title": "[Regulation of breathing in conditions of changed gas density and with resistance loading].", "content": "In anesthetized cats, an additional resistance for breathing entailed an increase in the work of respiratory muscles and some deceleration of respiratory cycles, particularly during hyperpnoe caused by hypercapnia. Inhalation of a mixture of increased density (SF6-O2) exerted a similar effect. The compensatory increase in the work of respiratory muscles persisted after bilateral vagotomy whereas the response to inhalation of the mixture disappeared. This suggests that extravagal reflexes take part in optimization of breathing in conditions of external resistance whereas the effect of high density of inhaled gas developes, mainly, through the afferent system of the lungs.", "contents": "[Regulation of breathing in conditions of changed gas density and with resistance loading]. In anesthetized cats, an additional resistance for breathing entailed an increase in the work of respiratory muscles and some deceleration of respiratory cycles, particularly during hyperpnoe caused by hypercapnia. Inhalation of a mixture of increased density (SF6-O2) exerted a similar effect. The compensatory increase in the work of respiratory muscles persisted after bilateral vagotomy whereas the response to inhalation of the mixture disappeared. This suggests that extravagal reflexes take part in optimization of breathing in conditions of external resistance whereas the effect of high density of inhaled gas developes, mainly, through the afferent system of the lungs.", "PMID": 456686} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12289", "title": "[Interrelationship of afferent impulses and the activity of smooth muscles of the small intestine].", "content": "In chronic experiments on dogs, a correlation existed between small intestine muscle spike potentials and frequency of afferent discharges in mesenteric nerves. Patterns of spice potentials were related to peristaltic waves. The high-amplitude aferent oscillations transferred to the extramural level of the nervous system seem to control the mechanism of evacuation process.", "contents": "[Interrelationship of afferent impulses and the activity of smooth muscles of the small intestine]. In chronic experiments on dogs, a correlation existed between small intestine muscle spike potentials and frequency of afferent discharges in mesenteric nerves. Patterns of spice potentials were related to peristaltic waves. The high-amplitude aferent oscillations transferred to the extramural level of the nervous system seem to control the mechanism of evacuation process.", "PMID": 456687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12290", "title": "[Influence of kallikrein and the salivary glands on bile composition].", "content": "In acute experiments on 14 dogs, surgical interventions on the salivary glands activated the cholatosynthetizing function, reduced the bilirubin excretion in the liver, and made protein and electrolytes alter in the bile. Activation of the kininogenesis by kallikrein caused different alterations in the bile composition after the salivary gland surgery.", "contents": "[Influence of kallikrein and the salivary glands on bile composition]. In acute experiments on 14 dogs, surgical interventions on the salivary glands activated the cholatosynthetizing function, reduced the bilirubin excretion in the liver, and made protein and electrolytes alter in the bile. Activation of the kininogenesis by kallikrein caused different alterations in the bile composition after the salivary gland surgery.", "PMID": 456688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12291", "title": "The cytoplasmic membrane as a site of the primary effect of colicins on eukaryotic cells.", "content": "The effect of colicins E3 and K on mouse lymphoid cells was studied. Low doses of colicin E3, which were not toxic, inhibited profoundly the Con A-induced activation of lymphocytes while the Con A binding capacity of the treated cells was retained. The inhibitory effect of colicin E3 was also found when the homing of 51Cr-labelled lymph node cells to the lymph nodes of syngeneic recipients was studied, while the rate of redistribution of H-2 antigens on the surface of the lymphocytes was not changed by colicin E3 or colicin K. The findings suggest that the cytoplasmic membrane is the site of the primary effect of colicin E3 on eukaryotic cells.", "contents": "The cytoplasmic membrane as a site of the primary effect of colicins on eukaryotic cells. The effect of colicins E3 and K on mouse lymphoid cells was studied. Low doses of colicin E3, which were not toxic, inhibited profoundly the Con A-induced activation of lymphocytes while the Con A binding capacity of the treated cells was retained. The inhibitory effect of colicin E3 was also found when the homing of 51Cr-labelled lymph node cells to the lymph nodes of syngeneic recipients was studied, while the rate of redistribution of H-2 antigens on the surface of the lymphocytes was not changed by colicin E3 or colicin K. The findings suggest that the cytoplasmic membrane is the site of the primary effect of colicin E3 on eukaryotic cells.", "PMID": 456693} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12292", "title": "Cell-mediated cytotoxicity of adherent and non-adherent mouse lymph node cells sensitized in vitro against tumour-associated antigens of syngenetic methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas.", "content": "Cell-mediated cytotoxicity of adherent and non-adherent subpopulations of mouse lymph node cells sensitized in vitro on monolayers of syngeneic, methylcholanthrene-induced sarcoma cells was examined by inhibition of 3H-thymidine incorporation. The cell-mediated cytotoxicity of nylon wood-adherent, non-adherent and unfractionated lymph node cells was found to be equally efficient.", "contents": "Cell-mediated cytotoxicity of adherent and non-adherent mouse lymph node cells sensitized in vitro against tumour-associated antigens of syngenetic methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas. Cell-mediated cytotoxicity of adherent and non-adherent subpopulations of mouse lymph node cells sensitized in vitro on monolayers of syngeneic, methylcholanthrene-induced sarcoma cells was examined by inhibition of 3H-thymidine incorporation. The cell-mediated cytotoxicity of nylon wood-adherent, non-adherent and unfractionated lymph node cells was found to be equally efficient.", "PMID": 456694} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12293", "title": "Fertility and income consumption aspirations, and child quality standards.", "content": "Data from a 1975 national survey of the American population were used to investigate the relationships between childbearing and aspirations for consumption goods, child quality standards, and income. The data were consistent with the hypothesis that preferences for child quality are negatively related to fertility. Aspirations for consumer goods which are related to the home were not found to be negatively related to childbearing while aspirations for nonhome goods were negatively related to fertility as hypothesized. Several indicators of income and subjective economic well-being were examined, and the overall pattern of results was not supportive of the hypothesized effect of income on fertility.", "contents": "Fertility and income consumption aspirations, and child quality standards. Data from a 1975 national survey of the American population were used to investigate the relationships between childbearing and aspirations for consumption goods, child quality standards, and income. The data were consistent with the hypothesis that preferences for child quality are negatively related to fertility. Aspirations for consumer goods which are related to the home were not found to be negatively related to childbearing while aspirations for nonhome goods were negatively related to fertility as hypothesized. Several indicators of income and subjective economic well-being were examined, and the overall pattern of results was not supportive of the hypothesized effect of income on fertility.", "PMID": 456699} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12294", "title": "Employment trends of young mothers and the opportunity cost of babies in the United States.", "content": "The central concept of microeconomic theories of fertility is opportunity cost--the product of wife's employment lost due to childbearing and the value of her employment. This paper presents a model for analyzing opportunity cost using panel data. The average loss of employment attributable to a second- or higher-order birth, calculated at around age 2, is over 400 hours per year. This time cost represents an income loss of about $1050 in 1969 dollars. Time cost is independent of such demographic factors as birth order and age of oldest sibling. Neither does time cost depend on husband's wage rate or wife's education or potential wage rate. This indicates that many microeconomic models of fertility have been seriously misspecified. The paper also compares results from static and dynamic models, explores possible problems due to simultaneity bias, investigates the relationship between changes in employment (including time cost) and initial employment level, and identifies the difficulties of theorizing about opportunity cost.", "contents": "Employment trends of young mothers and the opportunity cost of babies in the United States. The central concept of microeconomic theories of fertility is opportunity cost--the product of wife's employment lost due to childbearing and the value of her employment. This paper presents a model for analyzing opportunity cost using panel data. The average loss of employment attributable to a second- or higher-order birth, calculated at around age 2, is over 400 hours per year. This time cost represents an income loss of about $1050 in 1969 dollars. Time cost is independent of such demographic factors as birth order and age of oldest sibling. Neither does time cost depend on husband's wage rate or wife's education or potential wage rate. This indicates that many microeconomic models of fertility have been seriously misspecified. The paper also compares results from static and dynamic models, explores possible problems due to simultaneity bias, investigates the relationship between changes in employment (including time cost) and initial employment level, and identifies the difficulties of theorizing about opportunity cost.", "PMID": 456700} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12295", "title": "Labor supply behavior of prospective and new mothers.", "content": "Utilizing unique data generated from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Young Women, this paper examines the labor force participation of young mothers in the months immediately preceding and following the birth of the first child. Labor supply behavior at this point in the life cycle is described in greater detail than has hitherto been available. In addition, we analyze the independent effect of several factors of interest on the probability that a young woman will be in the labor force during various intervals surrounding the first birth.", "contents": "Labor supply behavior of prospective and new mothers. Utilizing unique data generated from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Young Women, this paper examines the labor force participation of young mothers in the months immediately preceding and following the birth of the first child. Labor supply behavior at this point in the life cycle is described in greater detail than has hitherto been available. In addition, we analyze the independent effect of several factors of interest on the probability that a young woman will be in the labor force during various intervals surrounding the first birth.", "PMID": 456701} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12296", "title": "The end of \"Catholic\" fertility.", "content": "Catholic and non-Catholic fertility during the post-World War II period are compared in this paper. Evidence accumulated across five sample surveys of fertility in the United States, which were conducted at five-year intervals from 1955 through 1975, forms the basis for the analysis; both cohort and period measures are employed. Starting from a situation where Catholic fertility was very little higher than that of non-Catholics, it is shown that the differential increased markedly during the baby boom and then declined to a point where the two trends nearly come together in the mid-1970s. Interpretation of the recent convergence in the light of various theories that have been put forward to explain the differential suggests that it will be an enduring phenomenon.", "contents": "The end of \"Catholic\" fertility. Catholic and non-Catholic fertility during the post-World War II period are compared in this paper. Evidence accumulated across five sample surveys of fertility in the United States, which were conducted at five-year intervals from 1955 through 1975, forms the basis for the analysis; both cohort and period measures are employed. Starting from a situation where Catholic fertility was very little higher than that of non-Catholics, it is shown that the differential increased markedly during the baby boom and then declined to a point where the two trends nearly come together in the mid-1970s. Interpretation of the recent convergence in the light of various theories that have been put forward to explain the differential suggests that it will be an enduring phenomenon.", "PMID": 456702} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12297", "title": "The changing impact of white migration on the population compositions of origin and destination metropolitan areas.", "content": "Increased migration to the sunbelt and the metropolitan-nonmetropolitan \"turnaround\" represent departures from long-standing redistribution trends. Although these patterns have been examined from a number of perspectives, their consequences for individual metropolitan areas have not yet been brought to light. In the present study, stream-disaggregated data for the late 1950s and late 1960s are employed to assess the impact of recent migration on the sizes and compositions of white populations in thirty-one large metropolitan areas. Most large northern SMSAs have been experiencing the \"new\" migration patterns since the late 1950s. They have incurred net out-movements of whites to both metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. In their exchanges with nonmetropolitan areas, however, they have managed to retain greater numbers of college graduates and professional workers. Southern and western SMSAs did not sustain losses to nonmetropolitan areas during either period. They did appear to gain both total and high status population as a result of interregional metropolitan redistribution.", "contents": "The changing impact of white migration on the population compositions of origin and destination metropolitan areas. Increased migration to the sunbelt and the metropolitan-nonmetropolitan \"turnaround\" represent departures from long-standing redistribution trends. Although these patterns have been examined from a number of perspectives, their consequences for individual metropolitan areas have not yet been brought to light. In the present study, stream-disaggregated data for the late 1950s and late 1960s are employed to assess the impact of recent migration on the sizes and compositions of white populations in thirty-one large metropolitan areas. Most large northern SMSAs have been experiencing the \"new\" migration patterns since the late 1950s. They have incurred net out-movements of whites to both metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. In their exchanges with nonmetropolitan areas, however, they have managed to retain greater numbers of college graduates and professional workers. Southern and western SMSAs did not sustain losses to nonmetropolitan areas during either period. They did appear to gain both total and high status population as a result of interregional metropolitan redistribution.", "PMID": 456703} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12298", "title": "Motivations for the inmigration component of population turnaround in nonmetropolitan areas.", "content": "Data from a 1977 survey of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan origin households migrating to 75 high net inmigration counties of the Midwest are examined to consider the motivational basis for the inmigration component of post-1970 nonmetropolitan migration trends. Findings suggest that the major stated motivations for leaving places of origin, especially among those from metropolitan areas, are \"quality of life\" considerations. Abouth a fourth of the metropolitan origin migrants' and half of the nonmetropolitan origin migrants' reasons are job-related. Anti-urban push and pro-rural pull responses are prevalent among migrants from metropolitan areas. Subsequent analysis of reasons for leaving metropolitan residences suggests consistency with other objective variables. Among households with a working-age head, those leaving for \"quality of life\" reasons came disproportionately from the largest metropolitan centers and went to the smallest towns. Those moving for non-employment reasons are not more likely to have taken an initial income loss, though they are less likely to experience immediate income gains.", "contents": "Motivations for the inmigration component of population turnaround in nonmetropolitan areas. Data from a 1977 survey of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan origin households migrating to 75 high net inmigration counties of the Midwest are examined to consider the motivational basis for the inmigration component of post-1970 nonmetropolitan migration trends. Findings suggest that the major stated motivations for leaving places of origin, especially among those from metropolitan areas, are \"quality of life\" considerations. Abouth a fourth of the metropolitan origin migrants' and half of the nonmetropolitan origin migrants' reasons are job-related. Anti-urban push and pro-rural pull responses are prevalent among migrants from metropolitan areas. Subsequent analysis of reasons for leaving metropolitan residences suggests consistency with other objective variables. Among households with a working-age head, those leaving for \"quality of life\" reasons came disproportionately from the largest metropolitan centers and went to the smallest towns. Those moving for non-employment reasons are not more likely to have taken an initial income loss, though they are less likely to experience immediate income gains.", "PMID": 456704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12299", "title": "Female migration in Chile: types of moves and socioeconomic characteristics.", "content": "This paper examines inter-provincial female migration in Chile for the 1965--1970 period, with a view to describing socioeconomic characteristics of migrant women and to determining differences and similarities in age, educational level, occupation, and type of move (first, return, or repeat) between movers to the capital and to other urban areas. Data are from a five percent sample of the 1970 Chilean census. Findings reveal that non-return migrants to other urban areas are differentiated from those to Santiago by an older age structure, higher educational levels, higher status occupations, and are more likely to be making a second (or higher-order) move. Moreover, educational measures suggest that recent female migration to urban Chile is more prevalent among the upper than the lower strata of the society.", "contents": "Female migration in Chile: types of moves and socioeconomic characteristics. This paper examines inter-provincial female migration in Chile for the 1965--1970 period, with a view to describing socioeconomic characteristics of migrant women and to determining differences and similarities in age, educational level, occupation, and type of move (first, return, or repeat) between movers to the capital and to other urban areas. Data are from a five percent sample of the 1970 Chilean census. Findings reveal that non-return migrants to other urban areas are differentiated from those to Santiago by an older age structure, higher educational levels, higher status occupations, and are more likely to be making a second (or higher-order) move. Moreover, educational measures suggest that recent female migration to urban Chile is more prevalent among the upper than the lower strata of the society.", "PMID": 456705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12300", "title": "A new evaluation of United States census data on the extreme aged.", "content": "Population and mortality data for the extreme aged have generally been considered subject to a large degree of error, particularly for nonwhites. In this study, estimates of the United States population 85 years of age and over in 1960 are devised through a procedure known as the \"method of extinct generations,\" which permits the reconstruction of \"extinct\" population cohorts from a series of annual death statistics. Estimates of the total population by single year of age and of sex-color groups by five-year age groups are compared with the 1960 census. With some exceptions, the data for whites show remarkable correspondence; the tally for nonwhites developed from death records falls considerably short of the census count, indicating a greater overstatement of age in the latter source.", "contents": "A new evaluation of United States census data on the extreme aged. Population and mortality data for the extreme aged have generally been considered subject to a large degree of error, particularly for nonwhites. In this study, estimates of the United States population 85 years of age and over in 1960 are devised through a procedure known as the \"method of extinct generations,\" which permits the reconstruction of \"extinct\" population cohorts from a series of annual death statistics. Estimates of the total population by single year of age and of sex-color groups by five-year age groups are compared with the 1960 census. With some exceptions, the data for whites show remarkable correspondence; the tally for nonwhites developed from death records falls considerably short of the census count, indicating a greater overstatement of age in the latter source.", "PMID": 456706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12301", "title": "Relations between demographic parameters.", "content": "The mean life-expectancy e describes the average prospective life-time of an individual aged zero. This parameter can be explicitly described in terms of the survivorship distribution of the population. The Malthusian parameter r represents the asymptotic growth rate of a population. This parameter can be implicitly expressed in terms of the net-maternity distribution. The parameters e and r incompletely incorporate the age-specific fertility and mortality pattern of a population; distinct populations may have the same growth rate but different net-maternity functions; distinct populations may be characterized by the same mean life expectation but may have different survivorship distributions. This article analyzes a class of parameters called the entropy of a population (Demetrius, 1974a) which distinguishes between net-maternity functions with the same growth rate and also mortality distributions with the same mean life expectation. This class of parameters measures the convexity of the fertility and mortality distributions. This paper analyzes the relations between the entropy parameter and the standard demographic parameters.", "contents": "Relations between demographic parameters. The mean life-expectancy e describes the average prospective life-time of an individual aged zero. This parameter can be explicitly described in terms of the survivorship distribution of the population. The Malthusian parameter r represents the asymptotic growth rate of a population. This parameter can be implicitly expressed in terms of the net-maternity distribution. The parameters e and r incompletely incorporate the age-specific fertility and mortality pattern of a population; distinct populations may have the same growth rate but different net-maternity functions; distinct populations may be characterized by the same mean life expectation but may have different survivorship distributions. This article analyzes a class of parameters called the entropy of a population (Demetrius, 1974a) which distinguishes between net-maternity functions with the same growth rate and also mortality distributions with the same mean life expectation. This class of parameters measures the convexity of the fertility and mortality distributions. This paper analyzes the relations between the entropy parameter and the standard demographic parameters.", "PMID": 456708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12302", "title": "Effects of dependency among causes of death for cause elimination life table strategies.", "content": "A study is made of the effects of associated causes of death, and of dependency among causes of death, by observing the relative importance of one cause of death when another is eliminated under various competing risk models. Two disease pairs, cancer and infectious disease and stroke and ischemic heart disease, are selected for analysis because they represent different types of disease dependence. Crude probabilities of death for each disease are calculated for the U.S. white male population in 1969. Next, the effects of the complementary disease in a pair are hypothetically eliminated in one of three ways: (a) a standard competing risk adjustment for cause elimination when deaths are singly caused (Chiang, 1968), (b) lethal defect-pattern of failure computations for multiply caused death when no causal order is inferred (Manton et al., 1976), and (c) relative susceptibility, computations for multiply caused deaths when causes are ordered (Wong, 1977). The paper closes with a discussion of the relative merits of the three types of adjustments.", "contents": "Effects of dependency among causes of death for cause elimination life table strategies. A study is made of the effects of associated causes of death, and of dependency among causes of death, by observing the relative importance of one cause of death when another is eliminated under various competing risk models. Two disease pairs, cancer and infectious disease and stroke and ischemic heart disease, are selected for analysis because they represent different types of disease dependence. Crude probabilities of death for each disease are calculated for the U.S. white male population in 1969. Next, the effects of the complementary disease in a pair are hypothetically eliminated in one of three ways: (a) a standard competing risk adjustment for cause elimination when deaths are singly caused (Chiang, 1968), (b) lethal defect-pattern of failure computations for multiply caused death when no causal order is inferred (Manton et al., 1976), and (c) relative susceptibility, computations for multiply caused deaths when causes are ordered (Wong, 1977). The paper closes with a discussion of the relative merits of the three types of adjustments.", "PMID": 456707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12303", "title": "[Trends in some treatment-criteria of patients of a dermatological children-ward (author's transl)].", "content": "In comparative studies on some treatment-criteria of patients of a dermatological children-ward between 1967, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1975 and 1977 we found a tendency to increased out-patient-treatment, a reduction in period of clinical sojourn and a significant increase in patients drug consumption. Most important reasons of this development are the following: Temporary decrease of birth rate in GDR; increased capacity of out-patient-treatment in the Leipzig-area; application of more effective drugs; improvements in management of clinical treatment. About 50% of treated in-patients are 0 to 3 years old. The great importance of a qualified dermatological treatment for success of clinical sojourn on a children-ward is underlined.", "contents": "[Trends in some treatment-criteria of patients of a dermatological children-ward (author's transl)]. In comparative studies on some treatment-criteria of patients of a dermatological children-ward between 1967, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1975 and 1977 we found a tendency to increased out-patient-treatment, a reduction in period of clinical sojourn and a significant increase in patients drug consumption. Most important reasons of this development are the following: Temporary decrease of birth rate in GDR; increased capacity of out-patient-treatment in the Leipzig-area; application of more effective drugs; improvements in management of clinical treatment. About 50% of treated in-patients are 0 to 3 years old. The great importance of a qualified dermatological treatment for success of clinical sojourn on a children-ward is underlined.", "PMID": 456709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12304", "title": "[The evidence of the chloramphenicol-sensibilisation by the usual lymphocyte transformation test (author's transl)].", "content": "As to its allergising capability Chloramphenicol holds a leading position. That's why the evidence of an existing sensibilisation is important. But there is a controversy concerning the usual lymphocyte transformation test (LTT). With the help of comparing tests (patch-test - LTT) a high rate of equal results between both the methods is shown. Thus, the efficiency of LTT basing on morphological analysing criteria, which is used for the evidence of an existing Chloramphenicol-sensibilisation seems to be proved.", "contents": "[The evidence of the chloramphenicol-sensibilisation by the usual lymphocyte transformation test (author's transl)]. As to its allergising capability Chloramphenicol holds a leading position. That's why the evidence of an existing sensibilisation is important. But there is a controversy concerning the usual lymphocyte transformation test (LTT). With the help of comparing tests (patch-test - LTT) a high rate of equal results between both the methods is shown. Thus, the efficiency of LTT basing on morphological analysing criteria, which is used for the evidence of an existing Chloramphenicol-sensibilisation seems to be proved.", "PMID": 456710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12305", "title": "[Results of the treatment in cases of cold urticaria, cold pruritus and cold rhinitis with peritol (zyproheptadinhydrochlorid) (author's transl)].", "content": "19 patients with cold urticaria, 5 with cold pruritus and 2 with cold rhinitis were successfully treated with peritol with the exception of one patient who suffered from a symptomatic pruritus due to polycythemia vera. Even in cases of recurrence the treatment was at once successful. Therefore peritol seems to be useful in the treatment of diseases due to cold.", "contents": "[Results of the treatment in cases of cold urticaria, cold pruritus and cold rhinitis with peritol (zyproheptadinhydrochlorid) (author's transl)]. 19 patients with cold urticaria, 5 with cold pruritus and 2 with cold rhinitis were successfully treated with peritol with the exception of one patient who suffered from a symptomatic pruritus due to polycythemia vera. Even in cases of recurrence the treatment was at once successful. Therefore peritol seems to be useful in the treatment of diseases due to cold.", "PMID": 456711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12306", "title": "[Detection of intercellularsubstance-autoantibodies after antigen-antibody-complex splitting in pemphigus foliaceus (author's transl)].", "content": "One patient suffering from pemphigus foliaceus exhibited the typical intercellular deposits of immunoglobulins in the subcorneal layers of the affected and not affected skin by direct be detected by means of several antigensubstrates. They could only be found after splitting of the antigen-antibodies-complexes. The laboratory findings exclude a more distinct deviation of the humoral and cellular immune reactivity.", "contents": "[Detection of intercellularsubstance-autoantibodies after antigen-antibody-complex splitting in pemphigus foliaceus (author's transl)]. One patient suffering from pemphigus foliaceus exhibited the typical intercellular deposits of immunoglobulins in the subcorneal layers of the affected and not affected skin by direct be detected by means of several antigensubstrates. They could only be found after splitting of the antigen-antibodies-complexes. The laboratory findings exclude a more distinct deviation of the humoral and cellular immune reactivity.", "PMID": 456712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12307", "title": "Comparative study of the growth inhibition of vegetative hyphae of some dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi on glucose-peptone-agar with griseofulvin.", "content": "By the method of Jesensk\u00e1 and Danilla [29] the growth inhibition of vegetative hyphae of colonies of 12 species of dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi on the surface of glucose-peptone-agar with incorporated griseofulvin has been established. It could be concluded that the sensitivity of hyphae to griseofulvin is neither connected with the taxonomic position and ecological classification of these microscopic fungi, nor with their ability to survive in the soil, or with their pathogenity etc. - In Trichophyton rubrum some hyphae were found which were extremely resistant to griseofulvin. - The extablished values allow to make an objective comparison of the sensitivity level of vegetative hyphae of dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi to griseofulvin in further geographical regions, at different times and in different laboratories. - In the discussion further possibilities in this direction are developed.", "contents": "Comparative study of the growth inhibition of vegetative hyphae of some dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi on glucose-peptone-agar with griseofulvin. By the method of Jesensk\u00e1 and Danilla [29] the growth inhibition of vegetative hyphae of colonies of 12 species of dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi on the surface of glucose-peptone-agar with incorporated griseofulvin has been established. It could be concluded that the sensitivity of hyphae to griseofulvin is neither connected with the taxonomic position and ecological classification of these microscopic fungi, nor with their ability to survive in the soil, or with their pathogenity etc. - In Trichophyton rubrum some hyphae were found which were extremely resistant to griseofulvin. - The extablished values allow to make an objective comparison of the sensitivity level of vegetative hyphae of dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi to griseofulvin in further geographical regions, at different times and in different laboratories. - In the discussion further possibilities in this direction are developed.", "PMID": 456713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12308", "title": "[Proposal for a method of testing the acute irritative effect of substances by experiments upon animals (author's transl)].", "content": "This paper deals with the test methods for the irritative effect of substances, and suggests a method for standardised determination of acute dermal I.D.50. Liquids or easily soluble substances can be checked in various concentrations with the help of an open application on rabbits.", "contents": "[Proposal for a method of testing the acute irritative effect of substances by experiments upon animals (author's transl)]. This paper deals with the test methods for the irritative effect of substances, and suggests a method for standardised determination of acute dermal I.D.50. Liquids or easily soluble substances can be checked in various concentrations with the help of an open application on rabbits.", "PMID": 456714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12309", "title": "A multicentre study of a once daily dosage of acebutolol in the treatment of hypertension in general practice.", "content": "A three-month open, multicentre trial was carried out in 2132 hypertensive patients under uncontrolled conditions in general practice, to assess the effectiveness and tolerance of acebutolol when given orally as a single morning dose, in the range of 200 to 1200 mg/day. Concomitant antihypertensive therapy was given to 702 patients. Forty-five patients, out of 1893 who were eligible for analysis, showed inadequate blood pressure control and were withdrawn from the study. There were 602 reports of side-effects of adverse reactions attributed to acebutolol in 584 patients, necessitating 120 withdrawals from the trials. The results showed that acebutolol given once daily produces a substantial and progressive reduction in blood pressure over the three months of the trial. The changes from pre-trial values of all haemodynamic assessments measured were statistically significant (p less than 0.001).", "contents": "A multicentre study of a once daily dosage of acebutolol in the treatment of hypertension in general practice. A three-month open, multicentre trial was carried out in 2132 hypertensive patients under uncontrolled conditions in general practice, to assess the effectiveness and tolerance of acebutolol when given orally as a single morning dose, in the range of 200 to 1200 mg/day. Concomitant antihypertensive therapy was given to 702 patients. Forty-five patients, out of 1893 who were eligible for analysis, showed inadequate blood pressure control and were withdrawn from the study. There were 602 reports of side-effects of adverse reactions attributed to acebutolol in 584 patients, necessitating 120 withdrawals from the trials. The results showed that acebutolol given once daily produces a substantial and progressive reduction in blood pressure over the three months of the trial. The changes from pre-trial values of all haemodynamic assessments measured were statistically significant (p less than 0.001).", "PMID": 456733} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12310", "title": "A clinical trial of trimebutine (Mebutin) in spastic colon.", "content": "Twenty adult Indian patients suffering from the spastic form of irritable colon, i.e. abdominal pain and constipation, were given trimebutine (Mebutin), 2-phenyl, 2-dimethylamino-n-butyl 3, 4, 5-trimethoxybenzoate. Patients were given treatment with 200 mg trimebutine three times daily, or placebo for 4 weeks, and then crossed over. In addition, stool transit times were assessed by the single stool transit time (SST) method of Cummings. Results showed a statistical improvement in abdominal pain and constipation with both trimebutine and placebo after 4 weeks, but only with trimebutine after 8 weeks. Single stool transit time was significantly reduced after trimebutine.", "contents": "A clinical trial of trimebutine (Mebutin) in spastic colon. Twenty adult Indian patients suffering from the spastic form of irritable colon, i.e. abdominal pain and constipation, were given trimebutine (Mebutin), 2-phenyl, 2-dimethylamino-n-butyl 3, 4, 5-trimethoxybenzoate. Patients were given treatment with 200 mg trimebutine three times daily, or placebo for 4 weeks, and then crossed over. In addition, stool transit times were assessed by the single stool transit time (SST) method of Cummings. Results showed a statistical improvement in abdominal pain and constipation with both trimebutine and placebo after 4 weeks, but only with trimebutine after 8 weeks. Single stool transit time was significantly reduced after trimebutine.", "PMID": 456734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12311", "title": "Follicular fluid stimulation of steroidogenesis in immature granulosa cells in vitro.", "content": "Granulosa cells from small (1-2 mm) immature porcine follicles were cultured in monolayer in culture media composed of equal parts of culture medium 199 and either (a) fluid from small follicles, (b) fluid from large (6-12 mm) follicles or (c) adult female porcine serum for 6 days, with or without 100 ng LH and/or 2 microgram FSH/ml. Both basal and gonadotrophin-stimulated progesterone secretion were greater in the presence of fluid from large follicles than in serum, for all 6 days. After 4 days of culture, fluid from small follicles enhanced gonadotrophin-stimulated progesterone secretion over that occurring in serum, but to a lesser extent than fluid from large follicles. These studies suggest the presence of a maturation stimulating molecule(s) in follicular fluid which increases in activity or concentration as the follicles enlarge. This factor may be essential for normal granulosa cell maturation in vivo.", "contents": "Follicular fluid stimulation of steroidogenesis in immature granulosa cells in vitro. Granulosa cells from small (1-2 mm) immature porcine follicles were cultured in monolayer in culture media composed of equal parts of culture medium 199 and either (a) fluid from small follicles, (b) fluid from large (6-12 mm) follicles or (c) adult female porcine serum for 6 days, with or without 100 ng LH and/or 2 microgram FSH/ml. Both basal and gonadotrophin-stimulated progesterone secretion were greater in the presence of fluid from large follicles than in serum, for all 6 days. After 4 days of culture, fluid from small follicles enhanced gonadotrophin-stimulated progesterone secretion over that occurring in serum, but to a lesser extent than fluid from large follicles. These studies suggest the presence of a maturation stimulating molecule(s) in follicular fluid which increases in activity or concentration as the follicles enlarge. This factor may be essential for normal granulosa cell maturation in vivo.", "PMID": 456736} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12312", "title": "Neurological development of kittens.", "content": "The neurological development of the kitten was studied from birth to 120 days of age. Three motor features present at birth disappeared within the 1st 45 days of life. The labyrinthine head and body righting reactions were present at birth; the latter matured only by 25 days of age when the air righting reaction (mature by 35 days) started to appear. Limb placing reactions developed progressively with proprioceptive components being present at birth whereas tactile components evolved slowly from early contact lifting to forepaws contact placing (60 days) and narrow plank walking (75 days). Standing and walking were well developed by 45 days. Eye opening occurred at 9.5 days and several eyeblink reactions (including blink to light) were present at birth. Adequate binocular coordination was seen by 47 days. Vision progressed parallel to the clearing of the ocular media which were fairly transparent by 32 days. Visually guided paw placing and the visuopalpebral blink reflex matured later (by 37 and 59 days, respectively). The external auditory canal and pinna were fully developed by 12 and 31 days, respectively; spontaneous and tactile pinna movements were present at birth; orienting to animal and nonanimal sounds was well developed by 6.5 and 18 days, respectively; spatial sound localization was developed by 16 days and differential responding to animal sounds matured by 24.5 days. Somatic responses and olfaction were present at birth but matured further thereafter. Playful interactions between kittens started by 10--15 days and well developed play behavior was seen by 36--40 days. In brief, all neurological functions mature progressively during the 1st 3 postnatal months.", "contents": "Neurological development of kittens. The neurological development of the kitten was studied from birth to 120 days of age. Three motor features present at birth disappeared within the 1st 45 days of life. The labyrinthine head and body righting reactions were present at birth; the latter matured only by 25 days of age when the air righting reaction (mature by 35 days) started to appear. Limb placing reactions developed progressively with proprioceptive components being present at birth whereas tactile components evolved slowly from early contact lifting to forepaws contact placing (60 days) and narrow plank walking (75 days). Standing and walking were well developed by 45 days. Eye opening occurred at 9.5 days and several eyeblink reactions (including blink to light) were present at birth. Adequate binocular coordination was seen by 47 days. Vision progressed parallel to the clearing of the ocular media which were fairly transparent by 32 days. Visually guided paw placing and the visuopalpebral blink reflex matured later (by 37 and 59 days, respectively). The external auditory canal and pinna were fully developed by 12 and 31 days, respectively; spontaneous and tactile pinna movements were present at birth; orienting to animal and nonanimal sounds was well developed by 6.5 and 18 days, respectively; spatial sound localization was developed by 16 days and differential responding to animal sounds matured by 24.5 days. Somatic responses and olfaction were present at birth but matured further thereafter. Playful interactions between kittens started by 10--15 days and well developed play behavior was seen by 36--40 days. In brief, all neurological functions mature progressively during the 1st 3 postnatal months.", "PMID": 456750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12313", "title": "Within-species variation in the development of ultrasonic signaling of preweanling rats.", "content": "The development of litter and individual differences in the rate of ultrasonic signaling of neonatal rats was studied. Systematic variations among litters and individuals emerged, without differential treatment. These differences were not correlated with variations in general development as indexed by body weight. Two experiments using a cross-fostering design showed that litter differences developed independently of variations in postnatal environment. These results indicate that the variations among litters in ultrasound rate have a prenatal, possibly genetic, etiology and may represent reliable indicants of response to environmental stress.", "contents": "Within-species variation in the development of ultrasonic signaling of preweanling rats. The development of litter and individual differences in the rate of ultrasonic signaling of neonatal rats was studied. Systematic variations among litters and individuals emerged, without differential treatment. These differences were not correlated with variations in general development as indexed by body weight. Two experiments using a cross-fostering design showed that litter differences developed independently of variations in postnatal environment. These results indicate that the variations among litters in ultrasound rate have a prenatal, possibly genetic, etiology and may represent reliable indicants of response to environmental stress.", "PMID": 456751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12314", "title": "Effects of rearing in different environments on subsequent environmental preference in rats.", "content": "Environmental preference of male rats reared during 2 months after weaning either in a complex and changing environment (EC) or in empty laboratory cages (SC) was assessed in 4 different experiments. For 2 weeks after differential rearing, rats were placed in groups of 6 in testing cages which were divided into 2 compartments with communicating holes. One of these compartments was empty; the other contained 6 objects (complex compartment). Daily, 3 objects were moved from 1 compartment to the other and replaced by new ones. The preference for any of the compartments was chiefly assessed by the localization of feces (Experiments I and II) and directly by the localization of the animals through videorecording (Experiments III and IV). Both EC and SC rats showed a significant preference for the empty compartment during both light and dark portions of the daily cycle, but particularly during the light portion.Moreover, EC and SC animals differed from one another in that the SC rats showed a stronger preferences for the empty compartment than the EC rats, especially when active. General preference for the empty compartment seemed to diminish slowly, but EC and SC rats tended to remain distinct in habitat selection, at least during the period tested. This behavioral difference, tentatively interpreted in terms of neophobia, might constitute a possible mechanism for automaintenance of differential rearing effects.", "contents": "Effects of rearing in different environments on subsequent environmental preference in rats. Environmental preference of male rats reared during 2 months after weaning either in a complex and changing environment (EC) or in empty laboratory cages (SC) was assessed in 4 different experiments. For 2 weeks after differential rearing, rats were placed in groups of 6 in testing cages which were divided into 2 compartments with communicating holes. One of these compartments was empty; the other contained 6 objects (complex compartment). Daily, 3 objects were moved from 1 compartment to the other and replaced by new ones. The preference for any of the compartments was chiefly assessed by the localization of feces (Experiments I and II) and directly by the localization of the animals through videorecording (Experiments III and IV). Both EC and SC rats showed a significant preference for the empty compartment during both light and dark portions of the daily cycle, but particularly during the light portion.Moreover, EC and SC animals differed from one another in that the SC rats showed a stronger preferences for the empty compartment than the EC rats, especially when active. General preference for the empty compartment seemed to diminish slowly, but EC and SC rats tended to remain distinct in habitat selection, at least during the period tested. This behavioral difference, tentatively interpreted in terms of neophobia, might constitute a possible mechanism for automaintenance of differential rearing effects.", "PMID": 456752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12315", "title": "Ontogeny of active avoidance in the rat: learning and memory.", "content": "Ontogenetic development of active avoidance learning, extinction and retention was studied in rats. The learning of a 1-way active avoidance was most rapid between Weeks 4 and 6, although some slight gender-related differences were evident. No such unambiguous development was detected in forced extinction. The 24-hr retention of avoidance peaked at the age of 4 weeks whereas 1-month retention was best in animals trained at the age of 8 weeks. The retrieval of memory trace also had best values at these ages. Retention of forced extinction was found to peak in 6-week animals. The existence of developmental \"critical periods\" must be considered cautiously as various functions have different time courses depending upon the chosen parameters in assessment.", "contents": "Ontogeny of active avoidance in the rat: learning and memory. Ontogenetic development of active avoidance learning, extinction and retention was studied in rats. The learning of a 1-way active avoidance was most rapid between Weeks 4 and 6, although some slight gender-related differences were evident. No such unambiguous development was detected in forced extinction. The 24-hr retention of avoidance peaked at the age of 4 weeks whereas 1-month retention was best in animals trained at the age of 8 weeks. The retrieval of memory trace also had best values at these ages. Retention of forced extinction was found to peak in 6-week animals. The existence of developmental \"critical periods\" must be considered cautiously as various functions have different time courses depending upon the chosen parameters in assessment.", "PMID": 456753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12316", "title": "The onset of rhythmic activities in normal and high-risk infants.", "content": "The onset of rhythmic activities was compared for 2 groups of high-risk infants (a preterm Respiratory Distress Syndrome and a postterm postmature group) and a normal term group over their 1st year of life. The postterm postmature group experienced earlier onsets of rhythmic activities. The preterm RDS group showed delays in the onset of rhythmic activities, but when a correction was made for the prematurity, did not differ from the other groups. These differences suggest that the onset dates for rhythmic activities are not affected by the perinatal complications of RDS or postmaturity, but are related to gestational age differences. A comparison of the 3 groups on Bayley 1st-year motor skills revealed group differences even after an adjustment for gestational age differences, suggesting that the development of motor skills, unlike the development of rhythmic activities, may have been affected by these perinatal complications.", "contents": "The onset of rhythmic activities in normal and high-risk infants. The onset of rhythmic activities was compared for 2 groups of high-risk infants (a preterm Respiratory Distress Syndrome and a postterm postmature group) and a normal term group over their 1st year of life. The postterm postmature group experienced earlier onsets of rhythmic activities. The preterm RDS group showed delays in the onset of rhythmic activities, but when a correction was made for the prematurity, did not differ from the other groups. These differences suggest that the onset dates for rhythmic activities are not affected by the perinatal complications of RDS or postmaturity, but are related to gestational age differences. A comparison of the 3 groups on Bayley 1st-year motor skills revealed group differences even after an adjustment for gestational age differences, suggesting that the development of motor skills, unlike the development of rhythmic activities, may have been affected by these perinatal complications.", "PMID": 456754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12317", "title": "Spontaneous alternation in chicks using social reward.", "content": "Two experiments examining spontaneous alternation in young white Leghorn chicks are reported. In Experiment I chicks (20 per group) run in a T-maze for 4 trials to social reward displayed alternation of responses, whereas nonrewarded chicks did not alternate. In Experiment II socially rewarded chicks (20 per group) again showed reliable alternation of responses whereas food, water, and nonrewarded chicks did not alternate. These data support the premise that spontaneous alternation behavior has some phyletic generality under optimum conditions, although the mechanisms which control it may differ across species.", "contents": "Spontaneous alternation in chicks using social reward. Two experiments examining spontaneous alternation in young white Leghorn chicks are reported. In Experiment I chicks (20 per group) run in a T-maze for 4 trials to social reward displayed alternation of responses, whereas nonrewarded chicks did not alternate. In Experiment II socially rewarded chicks (20 per group) again showed reliable alternation of responses whereas food, water, and nonrewarded chicks did not alternate. These data support the premise that spontaneous alternation behavior has some phyletic generality under optimum conditions, although the mechanisms which control it may differ across species.", "PMID": 456756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12318", "title": "Effects of the duration of dark rearing on visually guided behavior in the kitten.", "content": "Forty-eight kittens were dark reared or light reared from birth for 1 to 8 months and formed 6 age groups. Following rearing the kittens were examined daily in several tasks of visually guided behavior. Compared to younger dark-reared groups of kittens, older deprived groups showed longer acquisition times for visual placing to a surface, visual tracking, visually guided reaching to a serrated edge and moving object, and visually guided locomotion on elevated platforms. After dark rearing durations of 3 months or longer, deprived groups displayed overall deficiencies in obstacle avoidance during their 1st postdeprivation month. The older dark-reared groups gave some indication of a direct relationship between duration of dark rearing and both delay in acquisition times for the visually guided behaviors and deficiency in obstacle avoidance. One interpretation of the results is that during dark rearing the kitten may acquire nonvisual behaviors which could interfere with and prolong its development of visually guided behavior subsequent to deprivation.", "contents": "Effects of the duration of dark rearing on visually guided behavior in the kitten. Forty-eight kittens were dark reared or light reared from birth for 1 to 8 months and formed 6 age groups. Following rearing the kittens were examined daily in several tasks of visually guided behavior. Compared to younger dark-reared groups of kittens, older deprived groups showed longer acquisition times for visual placing to a surface, visual tracking, visually guided reaching to a serrated edge and moving object, and visually guided locomotion on elevated platforms. After dark rearing durations of 3 months or longer, deprived groups displayed overall deficiencies in obstacle avoidance during their 1st postdeprivation month. The older dark-reared groups gave some indication of a direct relationship between duration of dark rearing and both delay in acquisition times for the visually guided behaviors and deficiency in obstacle avoidance. One interpretation of the results is that during dark rearing the kitten may acquire nonvisual behaviors which could interfere with and prolong its development of visually guided behavior subsequent to deprivation.", "PMID": 456757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12319", "title": "The compensatory role of food-motivation in the maze learning performance of lactationally undernourished rats.", "content": "To test the hypothesis that the motivational effects of neonatal undernutrition might conceal the detrimental effects on learning, we tested previously undernourished and normally nourished Sprague-Dawley rats on learning of a novel maze pattern under either latent learning (nonappetitive) or food-motivated conditions. Under the nonappetitive conditions, the previously undernourished rats learned significantly less than the normal controls, but when motivated for food, the undernourished rats performed as well as the controls. When learning performance measures are sensitive to motivation, differential motivation between undernourished and normal subjects must be controlled or eliminated.", "contents": "The compensatory role of food-motivation in the maze learning performance of lactationally undernourished rats. To test the hypothesis that the motivational effects of neonatal undernutrition might conceal the detrimental effects on learning, we tested previously undernourished and normally nourished Sprague-Dawley rats on learning of a novel maze pattern under either latent learning (nonappetitive) or food-motivated conditions. Under the nonappetitive conditions, the previously undernourished rats learned significantly less than the normal controls, but when motivated for food, the undernourished rats performed as well as the controls. When learning performance measures are sensitive to motivation, differential motivation between undernourished and normal subjects must be controlled or eliminated.", "PMID": 456758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12320", "title": "Do 16-week-old infants anticipate stimulus offsets?", "content": "Twenty alert 16-week-old infants were presented with 20-sec tones at variable intertrial intervals for 10 trials while beat-by-beat heart rate responses were recorded to assess response at offset as well as onset of each stimulus. Consistent with past research, onsets elicited deceleratory responses which habituated and showed some evidence of dishabituation with a change in stimulus frequency on the last 2 trials. Offsets also elicited significant deceleratory responses overall, but inspection of pre-offset heart rate suggested that deceleration in anticipation of the offset event appeared after a few stimulus repetitions and increased in magnitude over trials. However, individual variability was considerable and although the anticipatory response was significant averaged over all trials, the apparent increase over trials did not reach statistical significance. The evidence clearly indicates infants quickly process and act upon temporal information in a stimulus.", "contents": "Do 16-week-old infants anticipate stimulus offsets? Twenty alert 16-week-old infants were presented with 20-sec tones at variable intertrial intervals for 10 trials while beat-by-beat heart rate responses were recorded to assess response at offset as well as onset of each stimulus. Consistent with past research, onsets elicited deceleratory responses which habituated and showed some evidence of dishabituation with a change in stimulus frequency on the last 2 trials. Offsets also elicited significant deceleratory responses overall, but inspection of pre-offset heart rate suggested that deceleration in anticipation of the offset event appeared after a few stimulus repetitions and increased in magnitude over trials. However, individual variability was considerable and although the anticipatory response was significant averaged over all trials, the apparent increase over trials did not reach statistical significance. The evidence clearly indicates infants quickly process and act upon temporal information in a stimulus.", "PMID": 456759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12321", "title": "Delayed plasticity of an instinct: recognition and avoidance of 2 facing eyes by the jewel fish.", "content": "A model depicting 2 horizontally positioned black spots resembling facing eyes, as compared with models depicting other spot arrangements, elicits intense flight activity in young African jewel fish (Hemichromis bimaculatus) under 5 months of age and 7-month-old subadults reared apart from conspecifics with eyeless cave fish (Anoptichthys jordani). In contrast, subadults permitted to observe or interact fully with conspecifics during development exhibited attenuated discriminative flight activity. These findings suggest that visual experience with facing conspecifics, irrespective of physical contact, modifies the flight-eliciting properties of the innat mechanism subserving eye-schema recognition, but only during later maturation.", "contents": "Delayed plasticity of an instinct: recognition and avoidance of 2 facing eyes by the jewel fish. A model depicting 2 horizontally positioned black spots resembling facing eyes, as compared with models depicting other spot arrangements, elicits intense flight activity in young African jewel fish (Hemichromis bimaculatus) under 5 months of age and 7-month-old subadults reared apart from conspecifics with eyeless cave fish (Anoptichthys jordani). In contrast, subadults permitted to observe or interact fully with conspecifics during development exhibited attenuated discriminative flight activity. These findings suggest that visual experience with facing conspecifics, irrespective of physical contact, modifies the flight-eliciting properties of the innat mechanism subserving eye-schema recognition, but only during later maturation.", "PMID": 456760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12322", "title": "Social experience affects the development of dendritic spines and branches on tectal interneurons in the jewel fish.", "content": "African jewel fish reared with eyeless cave fish, but without visual-tactile contact with conspecifics, exhibit hyperresponsive behavior after release in community aquaria. Because the optic tectum might be affected by these restraints on visual experience, unreleased members of the same social isolate group were compared histologically with controls reared in community aquaria. Using the rapid Golgi method, we counted dendritic spines and branches on pyriform interneurons between 402 and 529 days of age. As compared with isolates, control group interneurons exhibited significantly more spines and primary branches on apical dendrites in deep tectal layers. Our focus is the relation between experiential differences in rearing conditions and synaptic changes in the deep tectal layers.", "contents": "Social experience affects the development of dendritic spines and branches on tectal interneurons in the jewel fish. African jewel fish reared with eyeless cave fish, but without visual-tactile contact with conspecifics, exhibit hyperresponsive behavior after release in community aquaria. Because the optic tectum might be affected by these restraints on visual experience, unreleased members of the same social isolate group were compared histologically with controls reared in community aquaria. Using the rapid Golgi method, we counted dendritic spines and branches on pyriform interneurons between 402 and 529 days of age. As compared with isolates, control group interneurons exhibited significantly more spines and primary branches on apical dendrites in deep tectal layers. Our focus is the relation between experiential differences in rearing conditions and synaptic changes in the deep tectal layers.", "PMID": 456761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12323", "title": "Ontogenesis of spontaneous activity and habituation of activity in the rat pup.", "content": "Individual components of activity and habituation of activity were determined throughout the 1st month of life in the rat pup. Total activity increased from 25% at 8 days of age to 68% at 22 days before declining to 49% at 26 days. Total slight activity (predominantly sniffing) increased to a maximum of 33% at 15 days whereas total very active behavior (predominantly ambulation) reached its maximum of 38% at 22 days. Habituation of activity expressed as the mean slope of decrement of activity over the 1st 30 min of the observation period was observed in rats as young as 8 days of age. By 12 days, habituation of total activity had increased significantly reflecting a 3-fold increase ihabituation of slight activity, an effect observed at 15 days as well. However, by 19 days the slope of activity decrement had declined to half of its 15-day value, indicating an impairment of habituation and reflecting the attenuation of very active behavior, predominantly ambulation. This decline in habituation continued through 22 days but by 26 days habituation of activity had increased again reaching a maximum for the 1st month of postnatal life. Our results suggest that the phenomenon of behavioral arousal observed in the developing rat pup 19 days of age reflects an inability of the organism to modulate his activity as effectively as the 15-day- or 26-day-old animal.", "contents": "Ontogenesis of spontaneous activity and habituation of activity in the rat pup. Individual components of activity and habituation of activity were determined throughout the 1st month of life in the rat pup. Total activity increased from 25% at 8 days of age to 68% at 22 days before declining to 49% at 26 days. Total slight activity (predominantly sniffing) increased to a maximum of 33% at 15 days whereas total very active behavior (predominantly ambulation) reached its maximum of 38% at 22 days. Habituation of activity expressed as the mean slope of decrement of activity over the 1st 30 min of the observation period was observed in rats as young as 8 days of age. By 12 days, habituation of total activity had increased significantly reflecting a 3-fold increase ihabituation of slight activity, an effect observed at 15 days as well. However, by 19 days the slope of activity decrement had declined to half of its 15-day value, indicating an impairment of habituation and reflecting the attenuation of very active behavior, predominantly ambulation. This decline in habituation continued through 22 days but by 26 days habituation of activity had increased again reaching a maximum for the 1st month of postnatal life. Our results suggest that the phenomenon of behavioral arousal observed in the developing rat pup 19 days of age reflects an inability of the organism to modulate his activity as effectively as the 15-day- or 26-day-old animal.", "PMID": 456762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12324", "title": "Behavioral and physiological effects of early handling and early malnutrition in rats.", "content": "This experiment employed a 2 x 2 design in which the nutritional and early stimulation conditions of rat pups were manipulated during the 1st 3 weeks of postnatal life. Animals were observed in various open field activities at 22, 23, 29, 36, and 50 days of age, and killed at 55 days of age for neurochemical analysis. Early handling decreased the behavioral differences due to malnutrition and resulted in fewer, but larger cells in rat forebrain for both well-nourished and malnourished groups.", "contents": "Behavioral and physiological effects of early handling and early malnutrition in rats. This experiment employed a 2 x 2 design in which the nutritional and early stimulation conditions of rat pups were manipulated during the 1st 3 weeks of postnatal life. Animals were observed in various open field activities at 22, 23, 29, 36, and 50 days of age, and killed at 55 days of age for neurochemical analysis. Early handling decreased the behavioral differences due to malnutrition and resulted in fewer, but larger cells in rat forebrain for both well-nourished and malnourished groups.", "PMID": 456763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12325", "title": "Non-parallel secretion of pancreatic enzymes. Effect of parenteral amino acid administration and intestinal reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice.", "content": "Chronic drainage of pancreatic juice in rats results in a non-parallel secretion of digestive enzymes. The concentration of trypsinogen, chymotrypsinogen, procarboxypeptidase B and lipase increases continuously whereas that of amylase drops. An amino acid mixture given intravenously does not affect this dissociation. Reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice into the duodenum on the contrary influences the relative enzyme release: the increase in concentration of the three proteolytic enzymes and of lipase is less pronounced over the 72-hour study period; amylase concentration remains unaffected. In the absence of an intravenous amino acid feeding the pancreatic protein output is more than halved and a negative nitrogen balance is observed. Reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice does not alter the total protein output. This report confirms the persistance of a dissociation in the rate of enzyme release in rats with chronic pancreatic fistula despite sufficient protein administration and intestinal reintroduction of bilio-pancreatic juice.", "contents": "Non-parallel secretion of pancreatic enzymes. Effect of parenteral amino acid administration and intestinal reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice. Chronic drainage of pancreatic juice in rats results in a non-parallel secretion of digestive enzymes. The concentration of trypsinogen, chymotrypsinogen, procarboxypeptidase B and lipase increases continuously whereas that of amylase drops. An amino acid mixture given intravenously does not affect this dissociation. Reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice into the duodenum on the contrary influences the relative enzyme release: the increase in concentration of the three proteolytic enzymes and of lipase is less pronounced over the 72-hour study period; amylase concentration remains unaffected. In the absence of an intravenous amino acid feeding the pancreatic protein output is more than halved and a negative nitrogen balance is observed. Reinfusion of bilio-pancreatic juice does not alter the total protein output. This report confirms the persistance of a dissociation in the rate of enzyme release in rats with chronic pancreatic fistula despite sufficient protein administration and intestinal reintroduction of bilio-pancreatic juice.", "PMID": 456765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12326", "title": "Ligation or external fistulation of the common bile duct in the rat. I. Intestinal sucrose hydrolysis and absorption in vivo.", "content": "72 h after ligation of the common bile duct in the rat the sucrose hydrolysis in vivo was greater than in sham-operated animals, whereas the absorption of the split products, glucose and fructose, was not altered. In bile-depleted rats the sucrose hydrolysis did not differ from that in the control group. The absorption of the split products, glucose and fructose, was diminished. The alterations of the sucrose assimilation were - though statistically significant - rather small. Thus, the presence of bile in the intestinal contents does not seem to be very important for the hydrolysis and absorption of sucrose in vivo.", "contents": "Ligation or external fistulation of the common bile duct in the rat. I. Intestinal sucrose hydrolysis and absorption in vivo. 72 h after ligation of the common bile duct in the rat the sucrose hydrolysis in vivo was greater than in sham-operated animals, whereas the absorption of the split products, glucose and fructose, was not altered. In bile-depleted rats the sucrose hydrolysis did not differ from that in the control group. The absorption of the split products, glucose and fructose, was diminished. The alterations of the sucrose assimilation were - though statistically significant - rather small. Thus, the presence of bile in the intestinal contents does not seem to be very important for the hydrolysis and absorption of sucrose in vivo.", "PMID": 456766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12327", "title": "Neoplasms of the forestomach in mice ingesting dihydrosafrole.", "content": "The maximal tolerated doses of dihydrosafrole, safrole, and isosafrole were given by continuous oral administration, starting at the age of 7 days, to both sexes of two hybrid strains of mice - (C57BL/6 X C3HAnf)F1 and (C57BL/6 X AKR)F1. Hyperplasia and carcinomas of the forestomach were significantly increased in female mice of both strains and in male mice of the latter strain ingesting dihydrosafrole. By contrast, neoplasms of the forestomach were not increased in mice receiving safrole or isosafrole. Mice with neoplasms of the stomach generally did not have neoplasms of the liver.", "contents": "Neoplasms of the forestomach in mice ingesting dihydrosafrole. The maximal tolerated doses of dihydrosafrole, safrole, and isosafrole were given by continuous oral administration, starting at the age of 7 days, to both sexes of two hybrid strains of mice - (C57BL/6 X C3HAnf)F1 and (C57BL/6 X AKR)F1. Hyperplasia and carcinomas of the forestomach were significantly increased in female mice of both strains and in male mice of the latter strain ingesting dihydrosafrole. By contrast, neoplasms of the forestomach were not increased in mice receiving safrole or isosafrole. Mice with neoplasms of the stomach generally did not have neoplasms of the liver.", "PMID": 456767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12328", "title": "Pancreatic enzymic activities of commercial pancreatic enzyme preparations incubated in human small intestinal juice.", "content": "The activities of amylase, lipase, phospholipase and trypsin of twelve commercial pancreatic enzyme preparations were measured under identical conditions. Human small intestinal juice was chosen as incubation medium. A wide variation of enzymatic activities was found in preparations in tablet form contrary to preparations in granulated form. A prerequisite for a successful therapy is enzymically potent pancreatic extracts with high enzyme content per table, capsule or recommended dose of granulated preparation. Therefore, some preparations seem to be preferable to others for clinical purposes.", "contents": "Pancreatic enzymic activities of commercial pancreatic enzyme preparations incubated in human small intestinal juice. The activities of amylase, lipase, phospholipase and trypsin of twelve commercial pancreatic enzyme preparations were measured under identical conditions. Human small intestinal juice was chosen as incubation medium. A wide variation of enzymatic activities was found in preparations in tablet form contrary to preparations in granulated form. A prerequisite for a successful therapy is enzymically potent pancreatic extracts with high enzyme content per table, capsule or recommended dose of granulated preparation. Therefore, some preparations seem to be preferable to others for clinical purposes.", "PMID": 456768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12329", "title": "Parotid saliva test in the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis.", "content": "The parotid saliva test was evaluated in 31 patients with chronic pancreatitis proven by the secretin-pancreozymin test and failed to detect pancreatic insufficiency in the majority of the cases. According to this result the test cannot be recommended as a screening test for chronic pancreatitis.", "contents": "Parotid saliva test in the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. The parotid saliva test was evaluated in 31 patients with chronic pancreatitis proven by the secretin-pancreozymin test and failed to detect pancreatic insufficiency in the majority of the cases. According to this result the test cannot be recommended as a screening test for chronic pancreatitis.", "PMID": 456769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12330", "title": "Effect of CCK-octapeptide and secretin on amylase secretion in isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells.", "content": "Isolated acinar cells from rat pancreas responded well to hormonal treatment. Both secretin (synthetic and highly purified from porcine origin) and CCK-octapeptide stimulated amylase secretion in these cells. The response in both cases was very rapid. A maximal output of enzyme was reached within 5-10 min after the addition of hormones. The concentration producing maximal output for synthetic secretin (Schwarz/Mann) was 5 x 10(-8) M, synthetic secretin (Squibb), 10(-5) M, for purified porcine secretin, 10(-5) M, and for CCK-octapeptide was 5 x 10(-10) M. Secretin (2-fold at optimal concentration) was found to be less efficient compared to CCK-octapeptide (5-fold at optimal concentration) in stimulating amylase release. A combination of secretin and CCK-octapeptide had a synergistic action in stimulating enzyme release by the acinar cells. In addition, pretreatment of acinar cells with secretin potentiated the secretory response of the treated cells to CCK-octapeptide. To a lesser extent pretreatment with CCK-octapeptide also increased the effect of secretin in stimulating enzyme secretion.", "contents": "Effect of CCK-octapeptide and secretin on amylase secretion in isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells. Isolated acinar cells from rat pancreas responded well to hormonal treatment. Both secretin (synthetic and highly purified from porcine origin) and CCK-octapeptide stimulated amylase secretion in these cells. The response in both cases was very rapid. A maximal output of enzyme was reached within 5-10 min after the addition of hormones. The concentration producing maximal output for synthetic secretin (Schwarz/Mann) was 5 x 10(-8) M, synthetic secretin (Squibb), 10(-5) M, for purified porcine secretin, 10(-5) M, and for CCK-octapeptide was 5 x 10(-10) M. Secretin (2-fold at optimal concentration) was found to be less efficient compared to CCK-octapeptide (5-fold at optimal concentration) in stimulating amylase release. A combination of secretin and CCK-octapeptide had a synergistic action in stimulating enzyme release by the acinar cells. In addition, pretreatment of acinar cells with secretin potentiated the secretory response of the treated cells to CCK-octapeptide. To a lesser extent pretreatment with CCK-octapeptide also increased the effect of secretin in stimulating enzyme secretion.", "PMID": 456770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12331", "title": "Circulating Clq binding complexes in inflammatory bowel diseases.", "content": "To determine whether circulating immune complexes are present in the sera of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a 125I-Clq binding assay was performed. Of the 55 IBD serum samples tested, the 24 ulcerative colitis samples demonstrated significant binding (33.1 +/- 8.3%, p = 0.02), whereas the 31 Crohn's samples bound essentially normal amounts (29.2 +/- 7.4%). A positive control group consisting of 27 patients with rheumatoid arthritis was also studied. Sera from 4 patients wiht IBD and colonic cancer when tested, bound 40.2 +/- 8.0% of the available 125I-Clq, while 10 patients with previous colectomies and ileostomies gave results similar to those of 15 healthy controls and 11 patients with irritable colon.", "contents": "Circulating Clq binding complexes in inflammatory bowel diseases. To determine whether circulating immune complexes are present in the sera of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a 125I-Clq binding assay was performed. Of the 55 IBD serum samples tested, the 24 ulcerative colitis samples demonstrated significant binding (33.1 +/- 8.3%, p = 0.02), whereas the 31 Crohn's samples bound essentially normal amounts (29.2 +/- 7.4%). A positive control group consisting of 27 patients with rheumatoid arthritis was also studied. Sera from 4 patients wiht IBD and colonic cancer when tested, bound 40.2 +/- 8.0% of the available 125I-Clq, while 10 patients with previous colectomies and ileostomies gave results similar to those of 15 healthy controls and 11 patients with irritable colon.", "PMID": 456771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12332", "title": "Glucose and free fatty acid turnover in normal subjects and in diabetic patients before and after insulin treatment.", "content": "Turnover rates of glucose and free fatty acids were measured, using 3H-glucose and 14C-l-palmitic acid as tracers, in insulin-requiring diabetic patients at presentation and after insulin treatment. Correlations were sought with rates of substrate oxidation, determined independently from respiratory exchange, and with plasma hormone concentrations. The rates of appearance of glucose and of free fatty acids were increased in the diabetics to 17.6 and 10.2 micronmol min-1 kg-1 respectively. Both rates fell to normal (13.3 and 7.1 micronmol min-1 kg-1) after insulin. In the untreated state there was an inverse relationship between the rates of utilisation of glucose and free fatty acids (r = 0.61; p less than 0.05). It is suggested that this relationship represents the impairment of peripheral glucose utilisation by free fatty acids and by ketone bodies in vivo, so far only demonstrated in vitro. The tracer calculated rates of glucose utilisation correlated well over a wide range with the respiratory quotient in untreated diabetics, while respiratory quotient was inversely related to free fatty acid turnover rates. In untreated diabetics plasma cortisol and 3,3', 5'-triiodothyronine (rT3) were increased whereas thyroxine and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) were decreased. 3,5,3'-Triiodothyronine concentration was closely related to the metabolic clearance rate of glucose (p less than 0.05), while cortisol concentrations correlated with glucose production (p less than 0.02) and blood ketone body concentration (p less than 0.02). It is concluded that glucose overproduction is the major contributor to the hyperglycaemia of untreated diabetes.", "contents": "Glucose and free fatty acid turnover in normal subjects and in diabetic patients before and after insulin treatment. Turnover rates of glucose and free fatty acids were measured, using 3H-glucose and 14C-l-palmitic acid as tracers, in insulin-requiring diabetic patients at presentation and after insulin treatment. Correlations were sought with rates of substrate oxidation, determined independently from respiratory exchange, and with plasma hormone concentrations. The rates of appearance of glucose and of free fatty acids were increased in the diabetics to 17.6 and 10.2 micronmol min-1 kg-1 respectively. Both rates fell to normal (13.3 and 7.1 micronmol min-1 kg-1) after insulin. In the untreated state there was an inverse relationship between the rates of utilisation of glucose and free fatty acids (r = 0.61; p less than 0.05). It is suggested that this relationship represents the impairment of peripheral glucose utilisation by free fatty acids and by ketone bodies in vivo, so far only demonstrated in vitro. The tracer calculated rates of glucose utilisation correlated well over a wide range with the respiratory quotient in untreated diabetics, while respiratory quotient was inversely related to free fatty acid turnover rates. In untreated diabetics plasma cortisol and 3,3', 5'-triiodothyronine (rT3) were increased whereas thyroxine and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) were decreased. 3,5,3'-Triiodothyronine concentration was closely related to the metabolic clearance rate of glucose (p less than 0.05), while cortisol concentrations correlated with glucose production (p less than 0.02) and blood ketone body concentration (p less than 0.02). It is concluded that glucose overproduction is the major contributor to the hyperglycaemia of untreated diabetes.", "PMID": 456773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12333", "title": "Insulin-independent diabetes: a defect in the activity of lipoprotein lipase in adipose tissue.", "content": "The activity of lipoprotein lipase (E.C.3.1.1.3.) has been measured in adipose tissue from insulin-independent diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia, non-diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia and control patients, all of whom were obese. Although all groups showed an increase of plasma insulin after oral glucose, both the diabetic and nondiabetic hypertriglyceridaemics had impaired activities of lipoprotein lipase in adipose tissue compared to the obese normals (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.03, respectively). A course of insulin therapy (20 u.o.d.) for one week increased the activity of lipoprotein lipase extracted from adipose tissue, lowered plasma triglycerides and improved triglyceride clearance from plasma in a group of diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia (mean plasma triglyceride 8.7 mmol/l). Our results suggest that a feature in the development of insulin resistance in adult diabetics may be a failure of maintenance of key intracellular enzyme activities involved in lipid metabolism.", "contents": "Insulin-independent diabetes: a defect in the activity of lipoprotein lipase in adipose tissue. The activity of lipoprotein lipase (E.C.3.1.1.3.) has been measured in adipose tissue from insulin-independent diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia, non-diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia and control patients, all of whom were obese. Although all groups showed an increase of plasma insulin after oral glucose, both the diabetic and nondiabetic hypertriglyceridaemics had impaired activities of lipoprotein lipase in adipose tissue compared to the obese normals (p less than 0.02, p less than 0.03, respectively). A course of insulin therapy (20 u.o.d.) for one week increased the activity of lipoprotein lipase extracted from adipose tissue, lowered plasma triglycerides and improved triglyceride clearance from plasma in a group of diabetics with hypertriglyceridaemia (mean plasma triglyceride 8.7 mmol/l). Our results suggest that a feature in the development of insulin resistance in adult diabetics may be a failure of maintenance of key intracellular enzyme activities involved in lipid metabolism.", "PMID": 456774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12334", "title": "[Single vessel coronary disease. I. Differences in clinical and prognostic aspects and in surgical results in isolated lesions of the anterior descending branch and of other coronary branches].", "content": "This study includes 290 patients having a 75% or greater stenosis of a sinlge coronary vessel, divided into two groups: 205 cases with isolated lesions of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and 85 with a stenosis of the circumflex (CF) or of the right (RCA) coronary artery. The following data have been compared in the two groups: -- characters of angina; -- results of stress testing; -- extent of left ventricular contraction impairment; -- natural history of unoperated patients; -- surgical risk; -- long term survival of operated patients; -- effect of medical or surgical treatment on symptoms. Results were as follows: -- LAD patients had slightly more severe symptoms and lower exercise tolerance than CF and RCA patients; -- no significant differences were noted as regards left ventricular contraction; -- five year survival rates were only slightly different both regarding unoperated patients (80 +/- 5% survival in LAD disease group; 86 +/- 5% in CF and RCA disease) and operated cases (83 +/- 5% in LAD lesions, 86 +/- 7% in CF and RCA disease); -- surgical risk was relatively low in both groups; -- progress of symptoms after bypass surgery was very favourable. Based on these results, indications for surgery in single coronary vessel disease are discussed.", "contents": "[Single vessel coronary disease. I. Differences in clinical and prognostic aspects and in surgical results in isolated lesions of the anterior descending branch and of other coronary branches]. This study includes 290 patients having a 75% or greater stenosis of a sinlge coronary vessel, divided into two groups: 205 cases with isolated lesions of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and 85 with a stenosis of the circumflex (CF) or of the right (RCA) coronary artery. The following data have been compared in the two groups: -- characters of angina; -- results of stress testing; -- extent of left ventricular contraction impairment; -- natural history of unoperated patients; -- surgical risk; -- long term survival of operated patients; -- effect of medical or surgical treatment on symptoms. Results were as follows: -- LAD patients had slightly more severe symptoms and lower exercise tolerance than CF and RCA patients; -- no significant differences were noted as regards left ventricular contraction; -- five year survival rates were only slightly different both regarding unoperated patients (80 +/- 5% survival in LAD disease group; 86 +/- 5% in CF and RCA disease) and operated cases (83 +/- 5% in LAD lesions, 86 +/- 7% in CF and RCA disease); -- surgical risk was relatively low in both groups; -- progress of symptoms after bypass surgery was very favourable. Based on these results, indications for surgery in single coronary vessel disease are discussed.", "PMID": 456785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12335", "title": "[Left ventricular regional kinetics. Comparative analysis of the reference systems, correlations and physiological considerations].", "content": "The AA. studied segmental wall motion of the LV by means of 7 different methods. The study was performed in order to determine which reference system is the best for utilizing in subjects not affected by any heart disease. Two interesting points have emerged: first the methods which utilise the gravity center are the most sensitive; second, LV wall motion depends on the ejection fraction. In this perspective the AA. present a model of left ventricular motion.", "contents": "[Left ventricular regional kinetics. Comparative analysis of the reference systems, correlations and physiological considerations]. The AA. studied segmental wall motion of the LV by means of 7 different methods. The study was performed in order to determine which reference system is the best for utilizing in subjects not affected by any heart disease. Two interesting points have emerged: first the methods which utilise the gravity center are the most sensitive; second, LV wall motion depends on the ejection fraction. In this perspective the AA. present a model of left ventricular motion.", "PMID": 456787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12336", "title": "[Myocardial protection from cardioplegic and hypothermia during aortic cross-clamping (author's ttrans)].", "content": "The clinical results with cardioplegic solutions and hypothermia during aortic cross-clamping are compared with the clinical results obtained with hypothermia only. To complete the study miocardial biopsies were obtained during aortic cross-clamping in order to evaluate the concentration of ATP and CPK. The obtained data confirm the effectiveness of the myocardial protection.", "contents": "[Myocardial protection from cardioplegic and hypothermia during aortic cross-clamping (author's ttrans)]. The clinical results with cardioplegic solutions and hypothermia during aortic cross-clamping are compared with the clinical results obtained with hypothermia only. To complete the study miocardial biopsies were obtained during aortic cross-clamping in order to evaluate the concentration of ATP and CPK. The obtained data confirm the effectiveness of the myocardial protection.", "PMID": 456788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12337", "title": "[Morpho-functional assessment of endocardial cushion defect by single crystal and two-dimensional echocardiography (author's transl)].", "content": "24 patients with various forms of endocardial cushion defect, ranging in age from 8 months to 22 years, were studied by single crystal (M-mode) and two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography. In all of them diagnosis was confirmed by cardiac catheterization and angiocardiography, in 8 of them at surgery and in 3 of them at autopsy. From the morphologic point of view, 2-D echocardiography appeared to integrate M-mode recording in the structural definition of atrioventricular valves and in a better differentiation of complete atrioventricular canal. M-mode scanning right atrium-left ventricle, transverse projection by multiscan and long-axis and apical projections by sector-scanner were the most diagnostic projections. From the functional point of view, in patients with complete right bundle branch block (QRS greater than 120 msec), right ventricular isovolumetric contraction time appeared an useful alternative of sysn three patients, in whom these parameters couldn't be used, a qualitative judgement was possible on the basis of the absence of a wave and the presence of a midsystolic closure of pulmonary valve.", "contents": "[Morpho-functional assessment of endocardial cushion defect by single crystal and two-dimensional echocardiography (author's transl)]. 24 patients with various forms of endocardial cushion defect, ranging in age from 8 months to 22 years, were studied by single crystal (M-mode) and two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography. In all of them diagnosis was confirmed by cardiac catheterization and angiocardiography, in 8 of them at surgery and in 3 of them at autopsy. From the morphologic point of view, 2-D echocardiography appeared to integrate M-mode recording in the structural definition of atrioventricular valves and in a better differentiation of complete atrioventricular canal. M-mode scanning right atrium-left ventricle, transverse projection by multiscan and long-axis and apical projections by sector-scanner were the most diagnostic projections. From the functional point of view, in patients with complete right bundle branch block (QRS greater than 120 msec), right ventricular isovolumetric contraction time appeared an useful alternative of sysn three patients, in whom these parameters couldn't be used, a qualitative judgement was possible on the basis of the absence of a wave and the presence of a midsystolic closure of pulmonary valve.", "PMID": 456789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12338", "title": "[Treatment of coarctation of the aorta in paediatric age. Result of 7 years of experience (author's transl)].", "content": "Results of 83 consecutive operations for coarctation of the aorta in the paediatric age group (0-20 years), performed in our Institution between September 1971 and May 1978 are presented. Mean age at operation was 7.04 years. All patients have been divided into two groups according to age under or over one year. Group one comprises 13 cases under one year of age. There were two death (15.23%). In group two there were 70 cases with two deaths (2.85%). The main post-operative complications are analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the incidence of postoperative hypertension in relation to age bracket and with this point in mind discussion is carried out on the opportunity of early operation before stable hypertension has set in.", "contents": "[Treatment of coarctation of the aorta in paediatric age. Result of 7 years of experience (author's transl)]. Results of 83 consecutive operations for coarctation of the aorta in the paediatric age group (0-20 years), performed in our Institution between September 1971 and May 1978 are presented. Mean age at operation was 7.04 years. All patients have been divided into two groups according to age under or over one year. Group one comprises 13 cases under one year of age. There were two death (15.23%). In group two there were 70 cases with two deaths (2.85%). The main post-operative complications are analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the incidence of postoperative hypertension in relation to age bracket and with this point in mind discussion is carried out on the opportunity of early operation before stable hypertension has set in.", "PMID": 456790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12339", "title": "[Technical and methodological aspects concerning the application of Fourier's analysis to phonocardiography (author's transl)].", "content": "The frequency spectrum analysis (Fourier's analysis) has recently been applied to phonocardiography. Using this mathematical approach instead of the current empirical analysis, it is possible to obtain -- on a less subjective basis -- more precise pathophysiological and diagnostic information from the acoustic cardiac phenomena. On the other hand, this refinement of the method of analysis stresses the need for better technical and methodological solutions, in order to reach the standardization of both the transduction and the recording of the acoustic signal at higher level of sensibility, fidelity and reproducibility. With this in mind, and on the basis of their experience, the Authors suggest the adoption of devices with specific technical characteristics, and propose a suitable method of application of Fourier's analysis to the phonocardiogram.", "contents": "[Technical and methodological aspects concerning the application of Fourier's analysis to phonocardiography (author's transl)]. The frequency spectrum analysis (Fourier's analysis) has recently been applied to phonocardiography. Using this mathematical approach instead of the current empirical analysis, it is possible to obtain -- on a less subjective basis -- more precise pathophysiological and diagnostic information from the acoustic cardiac phenomena. On the other hand, this refinement of the method of analysis stresses the need for better technical and methodological solutions, in order to reach the standardization of both the transduction and the recording of the acoustic signal at higher level of sensibility, fidelity and reproducibility. With this in mind, and on the basis of their experience, the Authors suggest the adoption of devices with specific technical characteristics, and propose a suitable method of application of Fourier's analysis to the phonocardiogram.", "PMID": 456792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12340", "title": "[Acute treatment with verapamil of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter in paediatric age (author's transl)].", "content": "43 patients, 3 days to 12 years old, presented 68 paroxysms of supraventricular tachycardia and 2 crises of atrial flutter. 6 patients had a WPW syndrome and only 7 had an associated cardiac disease; the remaining had no other complaint but the arrhythmia. Verapamil, administered in the dose of 0.125-0.25 mg/Kg intravenously, interrupted critically the tachycardia in virtually all cases. The flutter was converted to atrial fibrillation with a slower ventricular rate. No adverse effects were observed but in two cases: one had a cardiac arrest promptly relieved and another a ventricular bradycardia corrected by atropine. Both cases had received an overdose of the drugs.", "contents": "[Acute treatment with verapamil of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter in paediatric age (author's transl)]. 43 patients, 3 days to 12 years old, presented 68 paroxysms of supraventricular tachycardia and 2 crises of atrial flutter. 6 patients had a WPW syndrome and only 7 had an associated cardiac disease; the remaining had no other complaint but the arrhythmia. Verapamil, administered in the dose of 0.125-0.25 mg/Kg intravenously, interrupted critically the tachycardia in virtually all cases. The flutter was converted to atrial fibrillation with a slower ventricular rate. No adverse effects were observed but in two cases: one had a cardiac arrest promptly relieved and another a ventricular bradycardia corrected by atropine. Both cases had received an overdose of the drugs.", "PMID": 456797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12341", "title": "[The tricuspid valve prolapse. Clinical significance and diagnostic problems (author's transl)].", "content": "Systolic prolapse of the tricuspid valve is a relatively unknown anatomo-clinical entity. In this communication etiology, clinical significance and diagnostic problems of this condition are reported and discussed. The frequent association with mitral valve prolapse and the coexistence of skeletal and cardiac anomalies strongly suggest the role of congenital factors and the degenerative nature of this valvular abnormality. Pathophysiology of leaflets prolapse remains unexplained for those few reported cases of isolated tricuspid invovlement. The clinical diagnosis of tricuspid valve prolapse is difficult, since the characteristic physical signs of tricuspid incompetence are uncommon, while apical mid-systolic click-late systolic murmur may indicate mitral valve prolapse, tricuspid valve prolapse, or a combination of the two. In the reported cases selective right ventriculography (R.A.O.) has shown pansystolic or late systolic prolapse of anterior and inferior leaflets (without or with varying degree of tricuspid incompetence) or isolated late systolic prolapse of the inferior cusp. M-mode echocardiography has shown great value in the diagnosis of tricuspid valve prolapse. On the echocardiogram several types of abnormalities have been noted which correlated well to angiocardiographic data. Tricuspid valve prolapse is of clinical importance, since this condition may be associated with significant tricuspid incompetence, a high incidence of cardiac arrhythmias, and possibly with bacterial endocarditis.", "contents": "[The tricuspid valve prolapse. Clinical significance and diagnostic problems (author's transl)]. Systolic prolapse of the tricuspid valve is a relatively unknown anatomo-clinical entity. In this communication etiology, clinical significance and diagnostic problems of this condition are reported and discussed. The frequent association with mitral valve prolapse and the coexistence of skeletal and cardiac anomalies strongly suggest the role of congenital factors and the degenerative nature of this valvular abnormality. Pathophysiology of leaflets prolapse remains unexplained for those few reported cases of isolated tricuspid invovlement. The clinical diagnosis of tricuspid valve prolapse is difficult, since the characteristic physical signs of tricuspid incompetence are uncommon, while apical mid-systolic click-late systolic murmur may indicate mitral valve prolapse, tricuspid valve prolapse, or a combination of the two. In the reported cases selective right ventriculography (R.A.O.) has shown pansystolic or late systolic prolapse of anterior and inferior leaflets (without or with varying degree of tricuspid incompetence) or isolated late systolic prolapse of the inferior cusp. M-mode echocardiography has shown great value in the diagnosis of tricuspid valve prolapse. On the echocardiogram several types of abnormalities have been noted which correlated well to angiocardiographic data. Tricuspid valve prolapse is of clinical importance, since this condition may be associated with significant tricuspid incompetence, a high incidence of cardiac arrhythmias, and possibly with bacterial endocarditis.", "PMID": 456798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12342", "title": "[Effects of isometric exercise on the right ventricular function and on the pulmonary circulation, in normal subjects (author's transl)].", "content": "The pulmonary circulatory response and right ventricular haemodynamics were assessed in normal subjects who sustained hand-grip exercise (HG) at 50% of the maximum voluntary contraction (M.V.C.) for 3 minutes. Ten normal subjects, aged 25 to 66 years, who underwent full right catheterization were studied. The following parameters were taken into consideration: heart rate (HR), end diastolic right ventricular pressure (EDRVP) end diastolic right ventricular volume (EDRVV), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), pulmonary wedge pressure (PWP), total pulmonary resistance (TPR), cardiac output (CO) and right ventricular sistolic work minute index (RVSWMI). These data were obtained by means of a tip-micromanometer connected with an polygraphic recorder and by means of thermodilution cardiac output computer. The statistical significance of the difference between the resting control values and those after isometric exercise was calculated with the Student's paired t test. A comparison of the control data with those obtained after isometric exercise, demonstrate a statistical significant (p less than 0,001) increase of the HR, PAP, PWP, TRP, CO, RVSWMI, a less significant (p less than 0.01) increase RVEDP. Our findings show that the HG causes changes in the pulmonary circulation and the right ventricular function. Our data seem to sustain that the pulmonary circulation respondes differently under isometric stress than it does under isotonic stress. The use of HG can thus be postulated as a useful means of evaluation of the response of the pulmonary circulation and right ventricular function.", "contents": "[Effects of isometric exercise on the right ventricular function and on the pulmonary circulation, in normal subjects (author's transl)]. The pulmonary circulatory response and right ventricular haemodynamics were assessed in normal subjects who sustained hand-grip exercise (HG) at 50% of the maximum voluntary contraction (M.V.C.) for 3 minutes. Ten normal subjects, aged 25 to 66 years, who underwent full right catheterization were studied. The following parameters were taken into consideration: heart rate (HR), end diastolic right ventricular pressure (EDRVP) end diastolic right ventricular volume (EDRVV), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), pulmonary wedge pressure (PWP), total pulmonary resistance (TPR), cardiac output (CO) and right ventricular sistolic work minute index (RVSWMI). These data were obtained by means of a tip-micromanometer connected with an polygraphic recorder and by means of thermodilution cardiac output computer. The statistical significance of the difference between the resting control values and those after isometric exercise was calculated with the Student's paired t test. A comparison of the control data with those obtained after isometric exercise, demonstrate a statistical significant (p less than 0,001) increase of the HR, PAP, PWP, TRP, CO, RVSWMI, a less significant (p less than 0.01) increase RVEDP. Our findings show that the HG causes changes in the pulmonary circulation and the right ventricular function. Our data seem to sustain that the pulmonary circulation respondes differently under isometric stress than it does under isotonic stress. The use of HG can thus be postulated as a useful means of evaluation of the response of the pulmonary circulation and right ventricular function.", "PMID": 456799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12343", "title": "[Predictability of electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic criteria in pulmonary arterial hypertension caused by chronic bronchopneumopathies].", "content": "The Authors have verified in a group of 38 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and suspected pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) of precapillary origin the possibility to forsee the pressure within the lesser circulation starting from some electrocardiographic and vectorcardiograhic criteria. The vectorcardiographic analysis has not been shown to be more reliable than the traditional ECG as far as the identification of an eventual PAH is concerned. The matching of both scalar and vectorial criteria has significantly increased the efficiency of the estimate, i.e. the possibility to foresee the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), but the same efficiency has remained at unsatisfactory level (S = +/- 10,30 Torr as far as the PAP is concerned. With regard to the value of the various scalar and vectorial criteria or parameters, among the electrocardiographic criteria the most reliable has been the inversion of the T wave in the right precordial leads. This sign, however, did not often appear in the present series (18% of the cases). As to the VCG the analysis made by the Authors stresses as the most reliable criterion the direction of QRS loop rotation on the horizontal plane and the magnitude of the maximum rightward spatial vector. These two elements, among other things, escape detection on the traditional electrocardiographic investigation. The above mentioned conclusions, obviously, only apply to the PAH secondary to COPD, in which particular noncardiac (lung hyperinflation, lowering of the diaphgram, etc.) and cardiac (associated left ventricular hypertrophy) factors contribute to limit the diagnostic value of both the ECG and the VCG.", "contents": "[Predictability of electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic criteria in pulmonary arterial hypertension caused by chronic bronchopneumopathies]. The Authors have verified in a group of 38 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and suspected pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) of precapillary origin the possibility to forsee the pressure within the lesser circulation starting from some electrocardiographic and vectorcardiograhic criteria. The vectorcardiographic analysis has not been shown to be more reliable than the traditional ECG as far as the identification of an eventual PAH is concerned. The matching of both scalar and vectorial criteria has significantly increased the efficiency of the estimate, i.e. the possibility to foresee the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), but the same efficiency has remained at unsatisfactory level (S = +/- 10,30 Torr as far as the PAP is concerned. With regard to the value of the various scalar and vectorial criteria or parameters, among the electrocardiographic criteria the most reliable has been the inversion of the T wave in the right precordial leads. This sign, however, did not often appear in the present series (18% of the cases). As to the VCG the analysis made by the Authors stresses as the most reliable criterion the direction of QRS loop rotation on the horizontal plane and the magnitude of the maximum rightward spatial vector. These two elements, among other things, escape detection on the traditional electrocardiographic investigation. The above mentioned conclusions, obviously, only apply to the PAH secondary to COPD, in which particular noncardiac (lung hyperinflation, lowering of the diaphgram, etc.) and cardiac (associated left ventricular hypertrophy) factors contribute to limit the diagnostic value of both the ECG and the VCG.", "PMID": 456800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12344", "title": "[The demand for blood in open-heart surgery (author's transl)].", "content": "Because of the continous increase of utilization of open heart surgery, whenever possible a more conservative use of blood is desirable. During 1977, 262 consecutive patients were operated upon using the hemodilution technique of cardiopulmonary bypass. Thirtyone operative deaths occurred (11.8%) and were not related to lack of blood administration. Mean hematocrit values were 32.4% two hours after surgery and between 31 and 32.5% in the following postoperative course. Hemoglobin concentration averaged from 9.9 to 10.4 g/100 ml during the first postoperative week. The estimated amount of blood transfused averaged 872 +/- 66 ml (+/- SE) per patient. Sixtyone patients (23%) didn't receive any transfusion. A conservative attitude towards blood administration is justified by transfusion related many risks and by the current shortage of blood.", "contents": "[The demand for blood in open-heart surgery (author's transl)]. Because of the continous increase of utilization of open heart surgery, whenever possible a more conservative use of blood is desirable. During 1977, 262 consecutive patients were operated upon using the hemodilution technique of cardiopulmonary bypass. Thirtyone operative deaths occurred (11.8%) and were not related to lack of blood administration. Mean hematocrit values were 32.4% two hours after surgery and between 31 and 32.5% in the following postoperative course. Hemoglobin concentration averaged from 9.9 to 10.4 g/100 ml during the first postoperative week. The estimated amount of blood transfused averaged 872 +/- 66 ml (+/- SE) per patient. Sixtyone patients (23%) didn't receive any transfusion. A conservative attitude towards blood administration is justified by transfusion related many risks and by the current shortage of blood.", "PMID": 456801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12345", "title": "[Creatine phosphokinase release from perfused cardiac muscle under hypoxic conditions. Effect of propranolol, verapamil, reserpine and deslanoside].", "content": "Experiments were undertaken to determine if some drugs (propranolol, reserpine, verapamil and deslanoside) have an effect on CPK release from hypoxic heart muscle. Hypoxia was induced in isolated Langerdorff perfused rabbit hearts by gassing the perfusate with 95% N2 + 5% CO2. Hypoxic induced damage of the rabbit heart muscle has been quantited in terms of the relase of the intracellular enzymes creatinephosphokinase (CPK) into the extracellular space. Propranolol was either added at the start of the hypoxic perfusion or the rabbit were pretreated with it. Verpamil, dl-propranolol and reserpine provided protection evidenced by a reduction of hypoxic induced CPK release, while lanatoside C and d-propranolol failed to prevent the hypoxic muscle from releasing CPK.", "contents": "[Creatine phosphokinase release from perfused cardiac muscle under hypoxic conditions. Effect of propranolol, verapamil, reserpine and deslanoside]. Experiments were undertaken to determine if some drugs (propranolol, reserpine, verapamil and deslanoside) have an effect on CPK release from hypoxic heart muscle. Hypoxia was induced in isolated Langerdorff perfused rabbit hearts by gassing the perfusate with 95% N2 + 5% CO2. Hypoxic induced damage of the rabbit heart muscle has been quantited in terms of the relase of the intracellular enzymes creatinephosphokinase (CPK) into the extracellular space. Propranolol was either added at the start of the hypoxic perfusion or the rabbit were pretreated with it. Verpamil, dl-propranolol and reserpine provided protection evidenced by a reduction of hypoxic induced CPK release, while lanatoside C and d-propranolol failed to prevent the hypoxic muscle from releasing CPK.", "PMID": 456802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12346", "title": "[Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the main pulmonary artery. Report of the case (author's transl)].", "content": "A case of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the main pulmonary artery in a 22 y.o. female is reported. The patient underwent successfully surgical correction by reimplantation of the anomalous vessel to the ascending aorta. The literature has been reviewed; the clinical features, the surgical approach and technique are described.", "contents": "[Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the main pulmonary artery. Report of the case (author's transl)]. A case of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the main pulmonary artery in a 22 y.o. female is reported. The patient underwent successfully surgical correction by reimplantation of the anomalous vessel to the ascending aorta. The literature has been reviewed; the clinical features, the surgical approach and technique are described.", "PMID": 456803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12347", "title": "[Lidocaine administration in a patient with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and atrial fibrillation (author's transl)].", "content": "This report describes a case of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with atrial fibrillation in which the ventricular complexes conducted over the accessory pathway have promptly disappeared with the use of intravenously administered lidocaine. Lidocaine is suggested as the most suitable drug in such situations. Finally possible connections are presented between high dosage administered lidocaine and conversion to normal sinus rhythm.", "contents": "[Lidocaine administration in a patient with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and atrial fibrillation (author's transl)]. This report describes a case of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with atrial fibrillation in which the ventricular complexes conducted over the accessory pathway have promptly disappeared with the use of intravenously administered lidocaine. Lidocaine is suggested as the most suitable drug in such situations. Finally possible connections are presented between high dosage administered lidocaine and conversion to normal sinus rhythm.", "PMID": 456804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12348", "title": "[Epidemiological and clinical observations on 300 cases of primary myocardiopathy].", "content": "In the period from 1968 to 1977, in the Departments of Cardiology of the S. Camillo Hospital, a study has been made about 200 cases of Congestive Cardiomyopathy (MPC) and 100 about hypertrophic obstructive (MP0). Congestive cardiomyopathies constitute 1.5% of hospitalizations with a constant trend in the long run. In comparing these two forms, Authors have noticed some differences in the symptomatology of clinical and instrumental signs: 1) in case of MPO prevail angina, syncope, ejection systolic murmur, left ventricular overload in the ECG; 2) in case of MPC they find more frequently heart failure, embolism, diastolic gallop, cardiomegaly, A/V and intraventricular conduction disturbs. The AA. conclude, in accordance with Goodwin's classification, that there is not an uniformity of these two kinds of cardiomyopathies.", "contents": "[Epidemiological and clinical observations on 300 cases of primary myocardiopathy]. In the period from 1968 to 1977, in the Departments of Cardiology of the S. Camillo Hospital, a study has been made about 200 cases of Congestive Cardiomyopathy (MPC) and 100 about hypertrophic obstructive (MP0). Congestive cardiomyopathies constitute 1.5% of hospitalizations with a constant trend in the long run. In comparing these two forms, Authors have noticed some differences in the symptomatology of clinical and instrumental signs: 1) in case of MPO prevail angina, syncope, ejection systolic murmur, left ventricular overload in the ECG; 2) in case of MPC they find more frequently heart failure, embolism, diastolic gallop, cardiomegaly, A/V and intraventricular conduction disturbs. The AA. conclude, in accordance with Goodwin's classification, that there is not an uniformity of these two kinds of cardiomyopathies.", "PMID": 456805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12349", "title": "Idiopathic muscular hypertrophy of the esophagus: a case report.", "content": "A case of idiopathic muscular hypertrophy of the esophagus is reported. Characteristic radiological findings with pathological material are illustrated, and differential diagnosis considered.", "contents": "Idiopathic muscular hypertrophy of the esophagus: a case report. A case of idiopathic muscular hypertrophy of the esophagus is reported. Characteristic radiological findings with pathological material are illustrated, and differential diagnosis considered.", "PMID": 456824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12350", "title": "Areae gastricae traversing the esophageal hiatus: a sign of hiatus hernia.", "content": "The areae gastricae are often visible as a structural feature of the gastric mucosa during double-contrast studies of the stomach. In this paper, radiographic visualization of the areae gastricae traversing the esophageal hiatus is described as a sign of hiatus hernia. In most instances, other radiographic signs of hiatus hernia are also present or may be elicited.", "contents": "Areae gastricae traversing the esophageal hiatus: a sign of hiatus hernia. The areae gastricae are often visible as a structural feature of the gastric mucosa during double-contrast studies of the stomach. In this paper, radiographic visualization of the areae gastricae traversing the esophageal hiatus is described as a sign of hiatus hernia. In most instances, other radiographic signs of hiatus hernia are also present or may be elicited.", "PMID": 456825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12351", "title": "Gastric neoplasm: ultrasound and CT evaluation.", "content": "Ultrasound may complement conventional barium evaluation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Thirty cases of gastric neoplasm were evaluated with ultrasound; 8 of these patients also were evaluated with CT. The different sonographic appearances of gastric neoplasms will be presented based on these cases and a review of the literature. The specificity of these changes is discussed. In addition, the complementary role of CT scanning in the evaluation of gastric neoplasms is described.", "contents": "Gastric neoplasm: ultrasound and CT evaluation. Ultrasound may complement conventional barium evaluation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Thirty cases of gastric neoplasm were evaluated with ultrasound; 8 of these patients also were evaluated with CT. The different sonographic appearances of gastric neoplasms will be presented based on these cases and a review of the literature. The specificity of these changes is discussed. In addition, the complementary role of CT scanning in the evaluation of gastric neoplasms is described.", "PMID": 456826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12352", "title": "Rapid water infusion: a technique in the ultrasonic discrimination of the gas-free stomach from a mass in the pancreatic tail.", "content": "A technique of rapid water infusion into the stomach is described as an ultrasonic method to differentiate the gas-free stomach presenting as a solid mass from a mass in the tail of the pancreas. The infusion permits delineation of the tail of the pancreas as a discrete structure.", "contents": "Rapid water infusion: a technique in the ultrasonic discrimination of the gas-free stomach from a mass in the pancreatic tail. A technique of rapid water infusion into the stomach is described as an ultrasonic method to differentiate the gas-free stomach presenting as a solid mass from a mass in the tail of the pancreas. The infusion permits delineation of the tail of the pancreas as a discrete structure.", "PMID": 456827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12353", "title": "Computed tomographic and ultrasonic appearances of primary carcinoma of the common bile duct.", "content": "Two patients with obstructive jaundice due to surgically proved primary carcinoma of the common bile duct were examined by CT and ultrasound. The combination of the two modalities showed dilatation of the extrahepatic biliary system and the main pancreatic duct. The diagnosis of primary bile duct carcinoma is suggested by these findings in the presence of a normal pancreatic head, although similar findings may occur with a small pancreatic or ampullary carcinoma.", "contents": "Computed tomographic and ultrasonic appearances of primary carcinoma of the common bile duct. Two patients with obstructive jaundice due to surgically proved primary carcinoma of the common bile duct were examined by CT and ultrasound. The combination of the two modalities showed dilatation of the extrahepatic biliary system and the main pancreatic duct. The diagnosis of primary bile duct carcinoma is suggested by these findings in the presence of a normal pancreatic head, although similar findings may occur with a small pancreatic or ampullary carcinoma.", "PMID": 456828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12354", "title": "Diagnosis of emphysematous cholecystitis by computerized tomography.", "content": "A case of emphysematous cholecystitis is presented in which computerized tomography helped to confirm the diagnosis and the extent of disease preoperatively. This unusual disorder is briefly reviewed and the clinical and radiographic findings are discussed.", "contents": "Diagnosis of emphysematous cholecystitis by computerized tomography. A case of emphysematous cholecystitis is presented in which computerized tomography helped to confirm the diagnosis and the extent of disease preoperatively. This unusual disorder is briefly reviewed and the clinical and radiographic findings are discussed.", "PMID": 456829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12355", "title": "Gas-forming intrahepatic abscess: a possible complication of arterial infusion chemotherapy.", "content": "Three cases of intrahepatic gas-forming abscesses are presented with liver metastases and indwelling hepatic artery catheters for drug infusion. This may represent a further complication of intrahepatic arterial drug infusion. Possible etiologies along with future prospects for this form of therapy are discussed.", "contents": "Gas-forming intrahepatic abscess: a possible complication of arterial infusion chemotherapy. Three cases of intrahepatic gas-forming abscesses are presented with liver metastases and indwelling hepatic artery catheters for drug infusion. This may represent a further complication of intrahepatic arterial drug infusion. Possible etiologies along with future prospects for this form of therapy are discussed.", "PMID": 456830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12356", "title": "Portal vein gas following air-contrast barium enema in granulomatous colitis: report of a case.", "content": "Portal vein gas developed in a patient with granulomatous colitis following air-contrast barium enema. No symptomatology or morbidity could be attributed to the portal vein gas in this patient.", "contents": "Portal vein gas following air-contrast barium enema in granulomatous colitis: report of a case. Portal vein gas developed in a patient with granulomatous colitis following air-contrast barium enema. No symptomatology or morbidity could be attributed to the portal vein gas in this patient.", "PMID": 456831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12357", "title": "Changing patterns of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis.", "content": "In a 4 year and 4 month period 80 patients with necrotizing enterocolitis were treated. Review of the mode of clinical presentation, radiological features, management, mortality, and complications showed that there have been considerable changes over this period. The disease is now frequently diagnosed clinically prior to the development of paralytic ileus. Scalloping of the bowel wall and separation of the bowel loops are probably the earliest radiological signs. The management has become a more aggressive medical approach with more limited and well-defined surgical indications. These changes have been associated with a marked decrease in mortality and a concomitant increase in the number of late complications.", "contents": "Changing patterns of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis. In a 4 year and 4 month period 80 patients with necrotizing enterocolitis were treated. Review of the mode of clinical presentation, radiological features, management, mortality, and complications showed that there have been considerable changes over this period. The disease is now frequently diagnosed clinically prior to the development of paralytic ileus. Scalloping of the bowel wall and separation of the bowel loops are probably the earliest radiological signs. The management has become a more aggressive medical approach with more limited and well-defined surgical indications. These changes have been associated with a marked decrease in mortality and a concomitant increase in the number of late complications.", "PMID": 456832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12358", "title": "Unused colon in the adult -- roentgen findings.", "content": "Two cases are reported of acquired microcolon distal to long-standing transverse colostomies performed 25 and 13 years previously. The radiologic appearance of the bypassed unused colon was similar to that of the microcolon of infants, demonstrating shortening, tubulation, and lack of haustrations.", "contents": "Unused colon in the adult -- roentgen findings. Two cases are reported of acquired microcolon distal to long-standing transverse colostomies performed 25 and 13 years previously. The radiologic appearance of the bypassed unused colon was similar to that of the microcolon of infants, demonstrating shortening, tubulation, and lack of haustrations.", "PMID": 456833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12359", "title": "Selective mesenteric phlebography in patients with carcinoid tumors.", "content": "Seventeen patients were investigated to localize carcinoid tumor growth in the small intestine and liver. Portography, selective phlebography of the intestinal veins, arteriography, and hormone assay (Serotonin, substance P) after simultaneous catheterization of the celiac artery and portal and caval veins were performed. Most of the patients have been operated on and findings at surgery have been compared with the preoperative localization methods. In 3 cases with small bowel carcinoids and typical fibroplastic changes of the mesentery, phlebography as well as arteriography demonstrated well the degree of mesenteric involvement. None of the methods demonstrated the primary tumors. Arteriography was superior in demonstration of liver metastasis. The hormone assay was a useful complement to angiographic techniques in the diagnosis and localization of tumor growth.", "contents": "Selective mesenteric phlebography in patients with carcinoid tumors. Seventeen patients were investigated to localize carcinoid tumor growth in the small intestine and liver. Portography, selective phlebography of the intestinal veins, arteriography, and hormone assay (Serotonin, substance P) after simultaneous catheterization of the celiac artery and portal and caval veins were performed. Most of the patients have been operated on and findings at surgery have been compared with the preoperative localization methods. In 3 cases with small bowel carcinoids and typical fibroplastic changes of the mesentery, phlebography as well as arteriography demonstrated well the degree of mesenteric involvement. None of the methods demonstrated the primary tumors. Arteriography was superior in demonstration of liver metastasis. The hormone assay was a useful complement to angiographic techniques in the diagnosis and localization of tumor growth.", "PMID": 456834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12360", "title": "Recurrent retroperitoneal mesenteric cyst. A case report and review.", "content": "A mesenteric cyst is an uncommon cause of a palpable abdominal mass. A correct preoperative diagnosis can be made by the combined use of radiographic and sonographic examinations in conjunction with the clinical features. A patient with a retroperitoneal cyst extending into the leaves of the mesentery is presented. The cyst recurred 4 years after surgery.", "contents": "Recurrent retroperitoneal mesenteric cyst. A case report and review. A mesenteric cyst is an uncommon cause of a palpable abdominal mass. A correct preoperative diagnosis can be made by the combined use of radiographic and sonographic examinations in conjunction with the clinical features. A patient with a retroperitoneal cyst extending into the leaves of the mesentery is presented. The cyst recurred 4 years after surgery.", "PMID": 456835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12361", "title": "Fibrosing mesenteritis simulating pelvic carcinomatosis.", "content": "A case of fibro-inflammatory thickening of the mesosigmoid simulating pelvic carcinomatosis on barium enema and ultrasound examination is presented. Histologic features of this case and cases of retractile mesenteritis and mesenteric panniculitis are discussed.", "contents": "Fibrosing mesenteritis simulating pelvic carcinomatosis. A case of fibro-inflammatory thickening of the mesosigmoid simulating pelvic carcinomatosis on barium enema and ultrasound examination is presented. Histologic features of this case and cases of retractile mesenteritis and mesenteric panniculitis are discussed.", "PMID": 456836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12362", "title": "Improved visualization of radiographic cadaver sections using xerotomography.", "content": "A new technique using xerotomography for axial images obtained from slices of abdominal cadavers is described. Radiographs were also made in sagittal planes for a complete study of visceral relationships. Xerotomography allows a wider range of visualization in the same plane of anatomical structures, from retroperitoneal fascial planes and vessels to abdominal viscera.", "contents": "Improved visualization of radiographic cadaver sections using xerotomography. A new technique using xerotomography for axial images obtained from slices of abdominal cadavers is described. Radiographs were also made in sagittal planes for a complete study of visceral relationships. Xerotomography allows a wider range of visualization in the same plane of anatomical structures, from retroperitoneal fascial planes and vessels to abdominal viscera.", "PMID": 456837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12363", "title": "Cytoprotection by prostaglandins in rats. Prevention of gastric necrosis produced by alcohol, HCl, NaOH, hypertonic NaCl, and thermal injury.", "content": "Oral administration to fasted rats of either absolute ethanol, 0.6 N hydrochloric acid, 0.2 N sodium hydroxide, 25% sodium chloride, or boiling water produced extensive necrosis of the gastric mucosa. Pretreatment with several prostaglandins of the A, E, or F type, either orally or subcutaneously, prevented such necrosis, and the effect was dose-dependent. This property of prostaglandins is called \"cytoprotection.\" The protective effect against oral administration of absolute ethanol was already maximal 1 min after PGE2 given orally, and 15-30 min after PGE2 given subcutaneously. Cytoprotection by prostaglandins is unrelated to the inhibition of gastric acid secretion since, (a) it is maximal at doses that have no effect on gastric secretion, and (b) anti-secretory compounds (cimetidine, methscopolamine bromide) and antacids are not cytoprotective. Although the mechanism of gastric cytoprotection is unknown, prostaglandins appear to increase the resistance of gastric mucosal cells to the necrotizing effect of strong irritants. These results suggest that certain prostaglandins, by a mechanism other than the inhibition of gastric acid secretion, maintain the cellular integrity of the gastric mucosa, and might be beneficial in the treatment of a variety of diseases in which gastric mucosal injury is present.", "contents": "Cytoprotection by prostaglandins in rats. Prevention of gastric necrosis produced by alcohol, HCl, NaOH, hypertonic NaCl, and thermal injury. Oral administration to fasted rats of either absolute ethanol, 0.6 N hydrochloric acid, 0.2 N sodium hydroxide, 25% sodium chloride, or boiling water produced extensive necrosis of the gastric mucosa. Pretreatment with several prostaglandins of the A, E, or F type, either orally or subcutaneously, prevented such necrosis, and the effect was dose-dependent. This property of prostaglandins is called \"cytoprotection.\" The protective effect against oral administration of absolute ethanol was already maximal 1 min after PGE2 given orally, and 15-30 min after PGE2 given subcutaneously. Cytoprotection by prostaglandins is unrelated to the inhibition of gastric acid secretion since, (a) it is maximal at doses that have no effect on gastric secretion, and (b) anti-secretory compounds (cimetidine, methscopolamine bromide) and antacids are not cytoprotective. Although the mechanism of gastric cytoprotection is unknown, prostaglandins appear to increase the resistance of gastric mucosal cells to the necrotizing effect of strong irritants. These results suggest that certain prostaglandins, by a mechanism other than the inhibition of gastric acid secretion, maintain the cellular integrity of the gastric mucosa, and might be beneficial in the treatment of a variety of diseases in which gastric mucosal injury is present.", "PMID": 456839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12364", "title": "Localization of gastrinomas by transhepatic portal catheterization and gastrin assay.", "content": "Gastrinomas were localized by concurrent blood sampling in the hepatic vein and portal vein tributaries in 10 of 12 Zollinger-Ellison patients. In one patient, the portal vein could not be catheterized; in the other, a gastrin gradient could not be picked up in either of two examinations. Six of the patients were subsequently operated upon: 5 had pancreatoduodenal resection and 1 had laparotomy at which metastases were found. Four of the resections were probably curative as the patients have done well without treatment since with concentrations of gastrin in serum near zero. The observation period ranges from 17 to 20 mo. It is concluded that transhepatic catheterization of the hepatic vein and portal vein tributaries with blood sampling for gastrin determination permit the verification of the Zollinger-Ellison diagnosis and the localization of the gastrinomas. The latter may lead to the selection of a curative operative treatment in some of the patients.", "contents": "Localization of gastrinomas by transhepatic portal catheterization and gastrin assay. Gastrinomas were localized by concurrent blood sampling in the hepatic vein and portal vein tributaries in 10 of 12 Zollinger-Ellison patients. In one patient, the portal vein could not be catheterized; in the other, a gastrin gradient could not be picked up in either of two examinations. Six of the patients were subsequently operated upon: 5 had pancreatoduodenal resection and 1 had laparotomy at which metastases were found. Four of the resections were probably curative as the patients have done well without treatment since with concentrations of gastrin in serum near zero. The observation period ranges from 17 to 20 mo. It is concluded that transhepatic catheterization of the hepatic vein and portal vein tributaries with blood sampling for gastrin determination permit the verification of the Zollinger-Ellison diagnosis and the localization of the gastrinomas. The latter may lead to the selection of a curative operative treatment in some of the patients.", "PMID": 456840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12365", "title": "The effects of pentagastrin in achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm.", "content": "The effects of subcutaneous pentagastrin (6 microgram/kg) on esophageal motility were recorded in patients with achalasia, in patients with idiopathic diffuse esophageal spasm (IDES), and in healthy subjects. In achalasia and IDES, pentagastrin produced an increase in mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure, amplitude of contractions, esophageal pressure, and repetitive wave activity. Also, chest pain or dysphagia occurred after pentagastrin administration in 4 of 9 patients with IDES and in 7 of 12 patients with achalasia. After comparing these observations with those of healthy subjects, we tested the potential for pentagastrin-induced motility changes to improve our ability to diagnose IDES. This was done by administering pentagastrin to 22 patients with clinically \"suspected\" esophageal motor disease but in whom routine radiologic and manometric studies were nondiagnostic. In none of the 22 did symptoms or manometric changes develop to help establish the diagnosis of IDES. This was true despite additional studies in 10 patients that failed to provide an alternative to IDES as the diagnosis. These results do not support the use of pentagastrin as a provocative test for IDES.", "contents": "The effects of pentagastrin in achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm. The effects of subcutaneous pentagastrin (6 microgram/kg) on esophageal motility were recorded in patients with achalasia, in patients with idiopathic diffuse esophageal spasm (IDES), and in healthy subjects. In achalasia and IDES, pentagastrin produced an increase in mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure, amplitude of contractions, esophageal pressure, and repetitive wave activity. Also, chest pain or dysphagia occurred after pentagastrin administration in 4 of 9 patients with IDES and in 7 of 12 patients with achalasia. After comparing these observations with those of healthy subjects, we tested the potential for pentagastrin-induced motility changes to improve our ability to diagnose IDES. This was done by administering pentagastrin to 22 patients with clinically \"suspected\" esophageal motor disease but in whom routine radiologic and manometric studies were nondiagnostic. In none of the 22 did symptoms or manometric changes develop to help establish the diagnosis of IDES. This was true despite additional studies in 10 patients that failed to provide an alternative to IDES as the diagnosis. These results do not support the use of pentagastrin as a provocative test for IDES.", "PMID": 456841} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12366", "title": "High amplitude, peristaltic esophageal contractions associated with chest pain and/or dysphagia.", "content": "Esophageal manometric tracings obtained using low-compliance pneumohydraulic infusion systems were reviewed from patients with symptoms of chest pain and/or dysphagia. Using this sytem, we report on 7 symptomatic patients with markedly increased esophageal peristaltic amplitude. Maximal peristaltic amplitude for these 7 patients (225-430 mmHg) was greater than for normals (75-175 mmHg). Mean peristaltic amplitude for the 7 was 170 mmHg, which was greater than for normals (81 +/- 30 mmHg, mean +/- 2 SD). This finding is believed to reflect the sensitivity of currently available manometric systems. It may be possible with these techniques to define more clearly the bulk of presumed esophageal dysfunction, which is at present poorly characterized. The relationship of clinical symptoms to abnormal esophageal motility is often less than optimal and may result from an inability to define \"normal\" or from inadequacies of currently available techniques. Our observations of a subset of symptomatic patients having peristaltic contractions with amplitudes exceeding the normal range seem to characterize one form of esophageal motility defect. This abnormality was seen more frequently than diffuse esophageal spasm in our laboratory.", "contents": "High amplitude, peristaltic esophageal contractions associated with chest pain and/or dysphagia. Esophageal manometric tracings obtained using low-compliance pneumohydraulic infusion systems were reviewed from patients with symptoms of chest pain and/or dysphagia. Using this sytem, we report on 7 symptomatic patients with markedly increased esophageal peristaltic amplitude. Maximal peristaltic amplitude for these 7 patients (225-430 mmHg) was greater than for normals (75-175 mmHg). Mean peristaltic amplitude for the 7 was 170 mmHg, which was greater than for normals (81 +/- 30 mmHg, mean +/- 2 SD). This finding is believed to reflect the sensitivity of currently available manometric systems. It may be possible with these techniques to define more clearly the bulk of presumed esophageal dysfunction, which is at present poorly characterized. The relationship of clinical symptoms to abnormal esophageal motility is often less than optimal and may result from an inability to define \"normal\" or from inadequacies of currently available techniques. Our observations of a subset of symptomatic patients having peristaltic contractions with amplitudes exceeding the normal range seem to characterize one form of esophageal motility defect. This abnormality was seen more frequently than diffuse esophageal spasm in our laboratory.", "PMID": 456842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12367", "title": "Responses of isolated human internal anal sphincter to drugs and electrical field stimulation.", "content": "The effects of drugs and electrical field stimulation on muscle strips from the human internal anal sphincter have been examined to provide information about the receptors and nerves that might be involved in the relaxation of the muscle in vivo. Acetylcholine and bethanechol usually relaxed muscle strips; this effect was abolished by hyoscine and antagonized to a varying degree by tetrodotoxin. Hexamethonium in concentrations sufficient to block relaxations to 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide or nicotine had no effect on relaxations due to acetylcholine, thereby indicating that acetylcholine was acting on muscarinic receptors. The nerves stimulated by acetylcholine released an unknown transmitter. Both 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide and nicotine relaxed muscle strips, possibly by releasing an adrenergic neurotransmitter which, because the responses to nicotinic receptor-stimulation were blocked by propranolol, stimulated beta-adrenergic inhibitory receptors. Sphincter muscle was also relaxed by electrical field stimulation of intrinsic nerves; this response was blocked by tetrodotoxin but unaffected by hexamethonium, hyposcine, or propranolol. The nerves responding to electrical field stimulation were therefore post-ganglionic, noncholinergic, and nonadrenergic. Compounds discounted as possible neurotransmitters of the noncholinergic, nonadrenergic inhibitory nerves were prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha, histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and dopamine. Some evidence allows vasoactive intestinal peptide and adenosine triphosphate to be considered as possible neurotransmitters; this could not be confirmed because selective antagonists are not yet available.", "contents": "Responses of isolated human internal anal sphincter to drugs and electrical field stimulation. The effects of drugs and electrical field stimulation on muscle strips from the human internal anal sphincter have been examined to provide information about the receptors and nerves that might be involved in the relaxation of the muscle in vivo. Acetylcholine and bethanechol usually relaxed muscle strips; this effect was abolished by hyoscine and antagonized to a varying degree by tetrodotoxin. Hexamethonium in concentrations sufficient to block relaxations to 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide or nicotine had no effect on relaxations due to acetylcholine, thereby indicating that acetylcholine was acting on muscarinic receptors. The nerves stimulated by acetylcholine released an unknown transmitter. Both 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide and nicotine relaxed muscle strips, possibly by releasing an adrenergic neurotransmitter which, because the responses to nicotinic receptor-stimulation were blocked by propranolol, stimulated beta-adrenergic inhibitory receptors. Sphincter muscle was also relaxed by electrical field stimulation of intrinsic nerves; this response was blocked by tetrodotoxin but unaffected by hexamethonium, hyposcine, or propranolol. The nerves responding to electrical field stimulation were therefore post-ganglionic, noncholinergic, and nonadrenergic. Compounds discounted as possible neurotransmitters of the noncholinergic, nonadrenergic inhibitory nerves were prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha, histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and dopamine. Some evidence allows vasoactive intestinal peptide and adenosine triphosphate to be considered as possible neurotransmitters; this could not be confirmed because selective antagonists are not yet available.", "PMID": 456843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12368", "title": "Postoperative elevation of amylase/creatinine clearance ratio in patients without pancreatitis.", "content": "An elevated CAm/CCr ratio has been used as evidence for the frequent occurrence of acute pancreatitis in the postoperative period. We measured CAm/CCr pre and postoperatively in 28 patients undergoing extraperitoneal surgical procedures. None of the patients had clinical evidence of pancreatitis, although 2 of the 28 patients had elevated CAm/CCr ratios preoperatively. Mean CAm/CCr rose from a preoperative level of 2.3 +/- 0.3% (1 SE) to 3.2 +/- 0.3% on the first postoperative day (P less than 0.001). Of the 26 patients with normal preoperative CAm/CCr, 12% (3 of 26) developed a clearly abnormal ratio and 12% (3 of 26) developed borderline elevated values. An elevated CAm/CCr appears to be a nonspecific postoperative finding and cannot be used as evidence of acute pancreatitis during this period.", "contents": "Postoperative elevation of amylase/creatinine clearance ratio in patients without pancreatitis. An elevated CAm/CCr ratio has been used as evidence for the frequent occurrence of acute pancreatitis in the postoperative period. We measured CAm/CCr pre and postoperatively in 28 patients undergoing extraperitoneal surgical procedures. None of the patients had clinical evidence of pancreatitis, although 2 of the 28 patients had elevated CAm/CCr ratios preoperatively. Mean CAm/CCr rose from a preoperative level of 2.3 +/- 0.3% (1 SE) to 3.2 +/- 0.3% on the first postoperative day (P less than 0.001). Of the 26 patients with normal preoperative CAm/CCr, 12% (3 of 26) developed a clearly abnormal ratio and 12% (3 of 26) developed borderline elevated values. An elevated CAm/CCr appears to be a nonspecific postoperative finding and cannot be used as evidence of acute pancreatitis during this period.", "PMID": 456844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12369", "title": "Effect of placental lactogen on the number of intrinsic factor receptors in the pregnant mouse.", "content": "Experiments were designed to identify the factor in serum which has been shown to result in an increased number of intrinsic factor (IF) receptors in the small intestine of the mouse in late pregnancy. IF receptors for cobalamin (Cbl) were measured by determining the quantity of IF-57CoCbl bound in ileal homogenates. A Scatchard plot of the binding data confirmed that there was an increase in the number of IF receptors and revealed that there was a reduction in their affinity constant (K alpha). The K alpha for pregnant mice was 0.7 x 10(12) M-1 compared with 2.8 x 10(12) M-1 in nonpregnant mice. The number of receptors decreased between 2 and 4 hr after hysterectomy (Hx) in day 19 pregnant mice. Hourly injections of human placental lactogen (PL) maintained IF-Cbl binding at pregnant levels in the Hx mice. Growth hormone but not prolactin produced a similar response. The smallest quantity of PL which was effective was 1 microgram. Placental lactogen did not have an effect on IF-Cbl binding in nonpregnant female mice. Neither hypophysectomy nor ovariectomy affected IF-Cbl. It is proposed that placental lactogen is the serum factor which is responsible for the increased number of IF receptors in the pregnant mouse.", "contents": "Effect of placental lactogen on the number of intrinsic factor receptors in the pregnant mouse. Experiments were designed to identify the factor in serum which has been shown to result in an increased number of intrinsic factor (IF) receptors in the small intestine of the mouse in late pregnancy. IF receptors for cobalamin (Cbl) were measured by determining the quantity of IF-57CoCbl bound in ileal homogenates. A Scatchard plot of the binding data confirmed that there was an increase in the number of IF receptors and revealed that there was a reduction in their affinity constant (K alpha). The K alpha for pregnant mice was 0.7 x 10(12) M-1 compared with 2.8 x 10(12) M-1 in nonpregnant mice. The number of receptors decreased between 2 and 4 hr after hysterectomy (Hx) in day 19 pregnant mice. Hourly injections of human placental lactogen (PL) maintained IF-Cbl binding at pregnant levels in the Hx mice. Growth hormone but not prolactin produced a similar response. The smallest quantity of PL which was effective was 1 microgram. Placental lactogen did not have an effect on IF-Cbl binding in nonpregnant female mice. Neither hypophysectomy nor ovariectomy affected IF-Cbl. It is proposed that placental lactogen is the serum factor which is responsible for the increased number of IF receptors in the pregnant mouse.", "PMID": 456845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12370", "title": "The effect of lactulose on urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion in cirrhotic patients.", "content": "The mechanism of action of lactulose is not known, although in vitro evidence suggests that lactulose may increase ammonia utilization and decrease ammmonia production by gut flora. If these changes occur in patients, they should be reflected in altered urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion. In seven studies conducted in 6 cirrhotic patients, the effects of lactulose on the kinetics of urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion were determined. Lactulose caused a fall in urea production (-24%, P less than 0.005) that was reflected in a decrease in both urea degradation and urinary urea excretion. Likewise, lactulose caused a decrease in the total body urea pool. The fall in urinary urea was accompanied by a large (two- to threefold) increase in stool nitrogen that was of a similar magnitude of the fall in urinary urea. Although urea degradation fell after lactulose, the intestinal (extrarenal) clearance of urea did not, indicating that the fall in urea degradation was due to the observed fall in the urea pool. The results indicate that: (a) Lactulose decreases urea production by increasing the fecal output of nitrogen, a finding compatible with altered ammonia metabolism by gut flora. (b) Lactulose decreases urea degradation, although this effect is primarily the result of a fall in the urea pool and cannot be attributed to an inhibition of urea breakdown in the gut lumen.", "contents": "The effect of lactulose on urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion in cirrhotic patients. The mechanism of action of lactulose is not known, although in vitro evidence suggests that lactulose may increase ammonia utilization and decrease ammmonia production by gut flora. If these changes occur in patients, they should be reflected in altered urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion. In seven studies conducted in 6 cirrhotic patients, the effects of lactulose on the kinetics of urea metabolism and nitrogen excretion were determined. Lactulose caused a fall in urea production (-24%, P less than 0.005) that was reflected in a decrease in both urea degradation and urinary urea excretion. Likewise, lactulose caused a decrease in the total body urea pool. The fall in urinary urea was accompanied by a large (two- to threefold) increase in stool nitrogen that was of a similar magnitude of the fall in urinary urea. Although urea degradation fell after lactulose, the intestinal (extrarenal) clearance of urea did not, indicating that the fall in urea degradation was due to the observed fall in the urea pool. The results indicate that: (a) Lactulose decreases urea production by increasing the fecal output of nitrogen, a finding compatible with altered ammonia metabolism by gut flora. (b) Lactulose decreases urea degradation, although this effect is primarily the result of a fall in the urea pool and cannot be attributed to an inhibition of urea breakdown in the gut lumen.", "PMID": 456846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12371", "title": "Chronic-persistent hepatitis and pregnancy.", "content": "The course and possible risks of pregnancy in 7 women between the ages of 20 and 30 yr with chronic-persistent hepatitis (CPH) were evaluated. Ten pregnancies occurred in these women during the follow-up period which ranged from 3 to 8 yr. Four of the fetuses were aborted electively for nonmedical reasons. The other six pregnancies resulted in normal spontaneous vaginal deliveries at term. Each of the women experienced uneventful pre- and postnatal courses, and the neonates were all healthy and developmentally normal at birth. There was no biochemical or clinical evidence to suggest worsening liver disease during pregnancy. Normal menstrual patterns when not pregnant and normal biphasic basal body temperature patterns in 4 women suggested that ovulation and fertility were not impaired significantly. Pregnancy in women with CPH appears safe to both mother and fetus alike. This finding contrasts with the morbidity and mortality some authors have found to be associated with cirrhosis and with portal hypertension. We speculate that our findings may be relevant to women with other portal lesions resembling CPH such as resolving acute hepatitis and chronic active hepatitis in sustained remission.", "contents": "Chronic-persistent hepatitis and pregnancy. The course and possible risks of pregnancy in 7 women between the ages of 20 and 30 yr with chronic-persistent hepatitis (CPH) were evaluated. Ten pregnancies occurred in these women during the follow-up period which ranged from 3 to 8 yr. Four of the fetuses were aborted electively for nonmedical reasons. The other six pregnancies resulted in normal spontaneous vaginal deliveries at term. Each of the women experienced uneventful pre- and postnatal courses, and the neonates were all healthy and developmentally normal at birth. There was no biochemical or clinical evidence to suggest worsening liver disease during pregnancy. Normal menstrual patterns when not pregnant and normal biphasic basal body temperature patterns in 4 women suggested that ovulation and fertility were not impaired significantly. Pregnancy in women with CPH appears safe to both mother and fetus alike. This finding contrasts with the morbidity and mortality some authors have found to be associated with cirrhosis and with portal hypertension. We speculate that our findings may be relevant to women with other portal lesions resembling CPH such as resolving acute hepatitis and chronic active hepatitis in sustained remission.", "PMID": 456847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12372", "title": "Inhibition of the growth of Morris hepatoma No. 44 in rats after induction of hypothyroidism: evidence that Morris hepatomas are thyroid dependent.", "content": "The growth rate of Morris Hepatoma No. 44 (generation time, 6 mo) was inhibited after the induction of hypothyroidism by Propylthiouracil (PTU) (0.1% in Purina Chow), I131 (1 mCi/100 g body wt i.p.), or surgical thyroidectomy. After 11 wk of treatment, hepatoma weight was 66%, 87%, and 75% (after correction for total body wt) relative to controls in PTU-fed, I131 injected, and thyroidectomized rats, respectively. In each case, exogenous thyroxine (T4) (8 microgram/kg body wt i.p.) reversed these inhibitory effects, while T4 administered to euthyroid rats stimulated hepatoma growth. The degree of growth-inhibition achieved with PTU was not observed in pair-fed rats. In addition, after correction for differences in body weight, the sex of the tumor-bearing rats did not influence the response to PTU. Pretreatment with PTU for 2 wk before implantation did not give any added advantage over the effects of PTU administered approximately 10 days after implantation. Serum levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and T4, as well as the concentration of various biochemic parameters, were determined at the time of death. These results suggest that the growth rate of Morris Hepatoma No. 44 is thyroid hormone dependent.", "contents": "Inhibition of the growth of Morris hepatoma No. 44 in rats after induction of hypothyroidism: evidence that Morris hepatomas are thyroid dependent. The growth rate of Morris Hepatoma No. 44 (generation time, 6 mo) was inhibited after the induction of hypothyroidism by Propylthiouracil (PTU) (0.1% in Purina Chow), I131 (1 mCi/100 g body wt i.p.), or surgical thyroidectomy. After 11 wk of treatment, hepatoma weight was 66%, 87%, and 75% (after correction for total body wt) relative to controls in PTU-fed, I131 injected, and thyroidectomized rats, respectively. In each case, exogenous thyroxine (T4) (8 microgram/kg body wt i.p.) reversed these inhibitory effects, while T4 administered to euthyroid rats stimulated hepatoma growth. The degree of growth-inhibition achieved with PTU was not observed in pair-fed rats. In addition, after correction for differences in body weight, the sex of the tumor-bearing rats did not influence the response to PTU. Pretreatment with PTU for 2 wk before implantation did not give any added advantage over the effects of PTU administered approximately 10 days after implantation. Serum levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and T4, as well as the concentration of various biochemic parameters, were determined at the time of death. These results suggest that the growth rate of Morris Hepatoma No. 44 is thyroid hormone dependent.", "PMID": 456848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12373", "title": "Multiple esophageal webs.", "content": "The case of a patient with numerous web-like constrictions involving the entire body of the esophagus is presented. The appearance is unlike any previously described for esophageal webs and rings. No known etiologic factors could be implicated and we have no speculations as to the cause.", "contents": "Multiple esophageal webs. The case of a patient with numerous web-like constrictions involving the entire body of the esophagus is presented. The appearance is unlike any previously described for esophageal webs and rings. No known etiologic factors could be implicated and we have no speculations as to the cause.", "PMID": 456849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12374", "title": "Eosinophilic gastroenteritis in extreme allergy. Immunopathological comparison with nonallergic gastrointestinal disease.", "content": "Intestinal mucosal biopsy immunoglobulin content in a patient with eosinophilia, allergic gastroenteropathy (atopy, food sensitivities, protein-losing enteropathy, iron deficiency anemia, and growth retardation), and hyperimmunoglobulinemia E (68,000 units) was compared with that of a control group and a group with eosinophilic gastroenteritis who had no atopic features. The patient had no evidence of cellular or humoral immunodeficiency but was severely hypersensitive to multiple inhalant and dietary allergens. In contrast to the findings in patients with nonallergic eosinophilic gastroenteritis, whose intestinal immunoglobulin content was similar to that of controls, tissue immunoglobulin IgE and IgG was markedly increased in the allergic patient. These results support an intestinal reaginic mechanism in the etiology of the allergic form of eosinophilic gastroenteritis.", "contents": "Eosinophilic gastroenteritis in extreme allergy. Immunopathological comparison with nonallergic gastrointestinal disease. Intestinal mucosal biopsy immunoglobulin content in a patient with eosinophilia, allergic gastroenteropathy (atopy, food sensitivities, protein-losing enteropathy, iron deficiency anemia, and growth retardation), and hyperimmunoglobulinemia E (68,000 units) was compared with that of a control group and a group with eosinophilic gastroenteritis who had no atopic features. The patient had no evidence of cellular or humoral immunodeficiency but was severely hypersensitive to multiple inhalant and dietary allergens. In contrast to the findings in patients with nonallergic eosinophilic gastroenteritis, whose intestinal immunoglobulin content was similar to that of controls, tissue immunoglobulin IgE and IgG was markedly increased in the allergic patient. These results support an intestinal reaginic mechanism in the etiology of the allergic form of eosinophilic gastroenteritis.", "PMID": 456850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12375", "title": "Sudden onset of slow gastric emptying of food.", "content": "Three healthy, young adults suddenly experienced the onset of slow gastric emptying. Their symptoms began in February, 1975 in association with a brief illness consistent with a viral gastroenteritis. They complained of early satiety, nausea, and vomiting when they ate solid food and they had lost 11-25 kg in body weight in 8-12 mo. On admission, their physical examinations and laboratory studies were within normal limits. Their stomachs emptied a barium mixture normally, and fiberoptic endoscopy did not detect any abnormalities. The slowed gastric emptying of food was documented with radioisotopic gastric emptying studies. The prolonged emptying rates of 2 patients were reduced 90% with metoclopramide. In association with metoclopramide therapy, the patients were able to eat more food, and they regained 8-10 kg of body weight in 4-6 mo. Their histories raise the possibility that their initial illness may have damaged the mechanisms which control the gastric emptying of food.", "contents": "Sudden onset of slow gastric emptying of food. Three healthy, young adults suddenly experienced the onset of slow gastric emptying. Their symptoms began in February, 1975 in association with a brief illness consistent with a viral gastroenteritis. They complained of early satiety, nausea, and vomiting when they ate solid food and they had lost 11-25 kg in body weight in 8-12 mo. On admission, their physical examinations and laboratory studies were within normal limits. Their stomachs emptied a barium mixture normally, and fiberoptic endoscopy did not detect any abnormalities. The slowed gastric emptying of food was documented with radioisotopic gastric emptying studies. The prolonged emptying rates of 2 patients were reduced 90% with metoclopramide. In association with metoclopramide therapy, the patients were able to eat more food, and they regained 8-10 kg of body weight in 4-6 mo. Their histories raise the possibility that their initial illness may have damaged the mechanisms which control the gastric emptying of food.", "PMID": 456851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12376", "title": "The role of the gallbladder in the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstones.", "content": "During the past century, a variety of explanations have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstones. Early attempts to account for the phenomenon of cholelithiasis focused on events in the gallbladder and stressed mucosal inflammatory changes, gallbladder stasis, stratification of bile, and absorption of bile salts from a damaged mucosa. The advent of the concept of \"lithogenic bile\" redirected attention to the liver and led to the proposal that an enzyme-mediated genetic and/or metabolic defect is the initiator of cholesterol cholelithiasis. While recognizing that the pathogenesis of gallstones is probably multifactorial, alterations in gallbladder and biliary ductal motor function constitute a plausible, but as yet unexplored, mechanism for alterations in enterohepatic circulation dynamics and subsequent cholesterol cholelithiasis. Gallbladder motor function is a complex phenomenon influenced by dynamic compliance, autonomic pharmacology, hormonal responses, and sphincter dynamics. Attempts to describe these aspects of biliary physiology may characterize the next phase in our understanding of the pathogenesis of cholesterol cholelithiasis.", "contents": "The role of the gallbladder in the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstones. During the past century, a variety of explanations have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstones. Early attempts to account for the phenomenon of cholelithiasis focused on events in the gallbladder and stressed mucosal inflammatory changes, gallbladder stasis, stratification of bile, and absorption of bile salts from a damaged mucosa. The advent of the concept of \"lithogenic bile\" redirected attention to the liver and led to the proposal that an enzyme-mediated genetic and/or metabolic defect is the initiator of cholesterol cholelithiasis. While recognizing that the pathogenesis of gallstones is probably multifactorial, alterations in gallbladder and biliary ductal motor function constitute a plausible, but as yet unexplored, mechanism for alterations in enterohepatic circulation dynamics and subsequent cholesterol cholelithiasis. Gallbladder motor function is a complex phenomenon influenced by dynamic compliance, autonomic pharmacology, hormonal responses, and sphincter dynamics. Attempts to describe these aspects of biliary physiology may characterize the next phase in our understanding of the pathogenesis of cholesterol cholelithiasis.", "PMID": 456853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12377", "title": "[Further results about pregnancy and childbirth after use of oral contraceptives (author's transl)].", "content": "In a total of 11,026 prenatal case patients there were 1000 patients who became pregnant following the cessation of the use of oral contraceptives. Results were compared with the pregnancies of 500 patients who never had employed contraceptive steroids. Comparison shows that in both groups the incidence of premature birth, perinatal mortality, congenital anomalies and twins were similar.", "contents": "[Further results about pregnancy and childbirth after use of oral contraceptives (author's transl)]. In a total of 11,026 prenatal case patients there were 1000 patients who became pregnant following the cessation of the use of oral contraceptives. Results were compared with the pregnancies of 500 patients who never had employed contraceptive steroids. Comparison shows that in both groups the incidence of premature birth, perinatal mortality, congenital anomalies and twins were similar.", "PMID": 456857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12378", "title": "[Preoperative evaluation by colposcopy and cytology in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (cin) (author's transl)].", "content": "Before conization in 108 patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) colposcopic findings and the results of triple cervical smears (anterior and posterior cervical lip and endocervical canal) have been evaluated and compared with the microscopic findings, limiting the comparison to the separately investigated anterior and posterior cervical lips. Colposcopically and cytologically suspicious findings agreed with the microscopic findings of CIN in 48.3% (anterior lip) resp. 41.7% (posterior lip). Cytologically suspicious findings alone have been determined in 80.5% resp. 84.8%; colposcopically suspicious findings were found in 55.2% resp. 48.1%. The main causes of false negative smears may have been failures of sampling, of false negative colposcopical findings a wrong estimation of an atypical transformation zone. A combined application of colposcopy and triple cervical smear technique in patients with abnormal smears is strongly recommended. This may improve the results of localizing a lesion of CIN.", "contents": "[Preoperative evaluation by colposcopy and cytology in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (cin) (author's transl)]. Before conization in 108 patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) colposcopic findings and the results of triple cervical smears (anterior and posterior cervical lip and endocervical canal) have been evaluated and compared with the microscopic findings, limiting the comparison to the separately investigated anterior and posterior cervical lips. Colposcopically and cytologically suspicious findings agreed with the microscopic findings of CIN in 48.3% (anterior lip) resp. 41.7% (posterior lip). Cytologically suspicious findings alone have been determined in 80.5% resp. 84.8%; colposcopically suspicious findings were found in 55.2% resp. 48.1%. The main causes of false negative smears may have been failures of sampling, of false negative colposcopical findings a wrong estimation of an atypical transformation zone. A combined application of colposcopy and triple cervical smear technique in patients with abnormal smears is strongly recommended. This may improve the results of localizing a lesion of CIN.", "PMID": 456858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12379", "title": "[On the feto-maternal transfusion of red blood cells during transplacental and para-placental genetic amniocenteses (author's transl)].", "content": "The concentrations of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) containing red blood cells in the peripheral blood of the mothers was studied in 113 cases by the method of Kleihauer & Betke prior and following trans-abdominal amniocenteses for genetic reasons between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy. Prior to the amniocentesis, 25% of the patients had HbF positive cells. Following the amniocentesis 36% of the patients showed HbF positive cells. In one out of six amniocenteses a measurable increase of the concentration of HbF containing red blood cells by approximately 0.22% was detected. These increases are within the limits found prior to amniocentesis and are not significant. There was no difference in the incidence and level of microtransfusions between paraplacental and transplacental amniocenteses. Because of the possibility of Rh sensitization Rh negative mothers should receive Rh immunoglobulin. None of the 112 patients had an abortion within two weeks following the amniocentesis.", "contents": "[On the feto-maternal transfusion of red blood cells during transplacental and para-placental genetic amniocenteses (author's transl)]. The concentrations of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) containing red blood cells in the peripheral blood of the mothers was studied in 113 cases by the method of Kleihauer & Betke prior and following trans-abdominal amniocenteses for genetic reasons between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy. Prior to the amniocentesis, 25% of the patients had HbF positive cells. Following the amniocentesis 36% of the patients showed HbF positive cells. In one out of six amniocenteses a measurable increase of the concentration of HbF containing red blood cells by approximately 0.22% was detected. These increases are within the limits found prior to amniocentesis and are not significant. There was no difference in the incidence and level of microtransfusions between paraplacental and transplacental amniocenteses. Because of the possibility of Rh sensitization Rh negative mothers should receive Rh immunoglobulin. None of the 112 patients had an abortion within two weeks following the amniocentesis.", "PMID": 456859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12380", "title": "[Experience with long-term intra-uterine devices (author's transl)].", "content": "At the hospital for women in Finkenau intra-uterine devices are used since 1965. At first plastic devices were used exclusively. It was assumed that the devices could stay for variable times. The present opinion that non-commper deivces have to be changed at regular intervals is in contradistinction to our first opinion. A questionaire was sent to women who had an intra-uterine device placed for four years or longer prior to the questionaire. The devices were Margulies Spirals or Lippes Loops. It was found that 47% of the patients who answered the questionaire still wore the same intra-uterine device from between 4--10 years after insertion and in some cases 13 years after insertion. 64.2% of the patients wore the same intra-uterine device until it was changed or permanently removed, more than 4 years after it was inserted. This study does not show that a change of plastic intra-uterine devices is necessary when the device is tolerated without side effects.", "contents": "[Experience with long-term intra-uterine devices (author's transl)]. At the hospital for women in Finkenau intra-uterine devices are used since 1965. At first plastic devices were used exclusively. It was assumed that the devices could stay for variable times. The present opinion that non-commper deivces have to be changed at regular intervals is in contradistinction to our first opinion. A questionaire was sent to women who had an intra-uterine device placed for four years or longer prior to the questionaire. The devices were Margulies Spirals or Lippes Loops. It was found that 47% of the patients who answered the questionaire still wore the same intra-uterine device from between 4--10 years after insertion and in some cases 13 years after insertion. 64.2% of the patients wore the same intra-uterine device until it was changed or permanently removed, more than 4 years after it was inserted. This study does not show that a change of plastic intra-uterine devices is necessary when the device is tolerated without side effects.", "PMID": 456860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12381", "title": "[The treatment of pre-malignant hyperplasias of the endometrium with progesterone-carrying intra-uterine devices (author's transl)].", "content": "The local administration of progestional agents for the treatment of adenomatous hyperplasia of the endometrium is insufficient for two reasons: 1. The locally applied progestational agent does not reach the total surface of the endometrium especially not in the uterine fundus or in the tubal cornua. This is frequently due to uterine myomata and to the T-shape of the intra-uterine device which does not contain progestational agents within the T. 2. The progestational agent released by the intra-uterine device does not reach the deeper layers of the endometrium. It is therefore possible that the deeper layers of the endometrium undergo malignant change. At present it is therefore necessary to administer progestational agents in the treatment of adenotamous hyperplasias of the endometrium systemically.", "contents": "[The treatment of pre-malignant hyperplasias of the endometrium with progesterone-carrying intra-uterine devices (author's transl)]. The local administration of progestional agents for the treatment of adenomatous hyperplasia of the endometrium is insufficient for two reasons: 1. The locally applied progestational agent does not reach the total surface of the endometrium especially not in the uterine fundus or in the tubal cornua. This is frequently due to uterine myomata and to the T-shape of the intra-uterine device which does not contain progestational agents within the T. 2. The progestational agent released by the intra-uterine device does not reach the deeper layers of the endometrium. It is therefore possible that the deeper layers of the endometrium undergo malignant change. At present it is therefore necessary to administer progestational agents in the treatment of adenotamous hyperplasias of the endometrium systemically.", "PMID": 456861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12382", "title": "[A new functional durable mold after surgical correction of vaginal aplasia (author's transl)].", "content": "Unsatisfactory long-term results following operative construction of a neo-vagina are often produced by contraction in the upper third of the blind vagina. These contraction tendencies can only be halted by use of durable molds. Standardized phalli are not, in our experience, well-suited for this purpose. Fabrication and fitting of an individual durable mold of tissue-neutral plastic, adapted to pelvic stability and function and yielding a good measure of success, are described.", "contents": "[A new functional durable mold after surgical correction of vaginal aplasia (author's transl)]. Unsatisfactory long-term results following operative construction of a neo-vagina are often produced by contraction in the upper third of the blind vagina. These contraction tendencies can only be halted by use of durable molds. Standardized phalli are not, in our experience, well-suited for this purpose. Fabrication and fitting of an individual durable mold of tissue-neutral plastic, adapted to pelvic stability and function and yielding a good measure of success, are described.", "PMID": 456863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12383", "title": "[Bartholinitis--sepsis--pancreatitis (author's transl)].", "content": "The article describes an acute inflammation of Bartholin's gland named after the Danish anatomist Caspar Thom\u00e9son Bartholin, jr. (1655--1738), which eventually led to hospitalisation of a 47-year old woman for a period of two months involving many complications: truly a case of a small cause producing a great effect! Similar cases have not been found in the literature referred to by us, and hence publication of this unusual case appears justified.", "contents": "[Bartholinitis--sepsis--pancreatitis (author's transl)]. The article describes an acute inflammation of Bartholin's gland named after the Danish anatomist Caspar Thom\u00e9son Bartholin, jr. (1655--1738), which eventually led to hospitalisation of a 47-year old woman for a period of two months involving many complications: truly a case of a small cause producing a great effect! Similar cases have not been found in the literature referred to by us, and hence publication of this unusual case appears justified.", "PMID": 456864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12384", "title": "[The economical and political consequences of generative behaviour (author's transl)].", "content": "Since safe contraceptives were developed the generative behaviour of man become the most important factor in economic, technological and political progress, previously only war, disease and epidemics were able to check the excess population pressure. The social and political conflicts were ameliorated through these means, temporarily. In the future the methods of contraception will reduce battles for power and priviledges to a human tolerable level. The emancipation of the society from the state appears promising since the development means the critical behaviour and distance from politics.", "contents": "[The economical and political consequences of generative behaviour (author's transl)]. Since safe contraceptives were developed the generative behaviour of man become the most important factor in economic, technological and political progress, previously only war, disease and epidemics were able to check the excess population pressure. The social and political conflicts were ameliorated through these means, temporarily. In the future the methods of contraception will reduce battles for power and priviledges to a human tolerable level. The emancipation of the society from the state appears promising since the development means the critical behaviour and distance from politics.", "PMID": 456865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12385", "title": "Responses to selection for body weight in descendants of X-irradiated rats.", "content": "The effectiveness of selection for high and low body weight at six weeks of age was studied in descendants of X-irradiated (R) and nonirradiated (C) inbred rats. There were two replicates of each of the direction of selection-irradiation treatments. In C lines, there were no consistent responses to selection, probably due to a low level of genetic variability. In R rats, selection was effective only for decreased body weight. The results of this experiment do not suggest the use of irradiation combined with selection as a means of enhancing responses to selection in animals.", "contents": "Responses to selection for body weight in descendants of X-irradiated rats. The effectiveness of selection for high and low body weight at six weeks of age was studied in descendants of X-irradiated (R) and nonirradiated (C) inbred rats. There were two replicates of each of the direction of selection-irradiation treatments. In C lines, there were no consistent responses to selection, probably due to a low level of genetic variability. In R rats, selection was effective only for decreased body weight. The results of this experiment do not suggest the use of irradiation combined with selection as a means of enhancing responses to selection in animals.", "PMID": 456888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12386", "title": "[Mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan on bone marrow cells of irradiated rats].", "content": "The rate of chromosome aberrations in bone marrow cells of male rats was investigated in 24 hours after the cyclophosphan intraperitoneal injection (25 mg/kg). Cyclophosphan was given to rats exposed earlier (15 days, 1, 3, 4, 6 or 9 months before) to X- and gamma-irradiation (400 rads). It was found that preliminary irradiation led to the increase in the mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan as compared to that obtained for intact rats. This effect was demonstrated during 4 months after acute X-irradiation at a dose rate of 70 rads/min and during 1 month after chronic gamma-irradiation at a dose rate of 100 rads/day. Later the effect was shown to disappear in both cases. Chronic irradiation was found to be less efficient in the stimulation of chromosome damages caused by chemical mutagens. The increase of the mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan resulted in the increase of both the number of cells carrying chromosome breaks and the severity of a damage per cell. Different ways of the irradiation effect on the mutagenic action of chemicals are discussed.", "contents": "[Mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan on bone marrow cells of irradiated rats]. The rate of chromosome aberrations in bone marrow cells of male rats was investigated in 24 hours after the cyclophosphan intraperitoneal injection (25 mg/kg). Cyclophosphan was given to rats exposed earlier (15 days, 1, 3, 4, 6 or 9 months before) to X- and gamma-irradiation (400 rads). It was found that preliminary irradiation led to the increase in the mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan as compared to that obtained for intact rats. This effect was demonstrated during 4 months after acute X-irradiation at a dose rate of 70 rads/min and during 1 month after chronic gamma-irradiation at a dose rate of 100 rads/day. Later the effect was shown to disappear in both cases. Chronic irradiation was found to be less efficient in the stimulation of chromosome damages caused by chemical mutagens. The increase of the mutagenic effect of cyclophosphan resulted in the increase of both the number of cells carrying chromosome breaks and the severity of a damage per cell. Different ways of the irradiation effect on the mutagenic action of chemicals are discussed.", "PMID": 456890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12387", "title": "[\"Teratologic series\" and their genetics].", "content": "Isolated cyclopia is one of the members of the prosencephalic teratologic series. In some families with cyclopian monster other types of prosencephalic malformations are found in sibs or more distant relatives. All these malformations occur more frequently in females. Different forms of prosencephalies are observed in the same type of chromosome disbalance. These data suggest that morphogenesis and etiology of the prosencephalic malformations are common. Therefore a whole teratologic series but not a single member-malformation must be an object of genetic analysis. The same data are found for another teratologic series: bilateral renal agenesis--unilateral one--aplastic variant of the cystic dysplasia of kidneys. Polygenic inheritance with the threshold phenomenon is the most probable type of genetic determination of such malformations. The more frequent occurrence of polygenic malformations in families with the studied malformation whose inheritance is not yet established may be an indirect indication for the polygenic determination of the latter.", "contents": "[\"Teratologic series\" and their genetics]. Isolated cyclopia is one of the members of the prosencephalic teratologic series. In some families with cyclopian monster other types of prosencephalic malformations are found in sibs or more distant relatives. All these malformations occur more frequently in females. Different forms of prosencephalies are observed in the same type of chromosome disbalance. These data suggest that morphogenesis and etiology of the prosencephalic malformations are common. Therefore a whole teratologic series but not a single member-malformation must be an object of genetic analysis. The same data are found for another teratologic series: bilateral renal agenesis--unilateral one--aplastic variant of the cystic dysplasia of kidneys. Polygenic inheritance with the threshold phenomenon is the most probable type of genetic determination of such malformations. The more frequent occurrence of polygenic malformations in families with the studied malformation whose inheritance is not yet established may be an indirect indication for the polygenic determination of the latter.", "PMID": 456891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12388", "title": "Effect of aging on brain respiration and carbohydrate metabolism of CBF1 mice.", "content": "Brain slices of mice (strain CBF1) were used to study the effect of aging on cerebral cortex respiration and metabolism. Young animals (average age 6 months) were compared with old animals (average age 34 months). Metabolism was measured at a normal temperature (37 degrees C) and under hyperthermic stress (40 degrees C). The brain slices were incubated with 14C-glucose under standard conditions with the following parameters being measured: oxygen uptake, 14CO2 production, glucose utilization, and lactate and pyruvate formation. At the normal temperature, there were significant age-associated decreases in oxygen uptake and 14CO2 production but the other parameters were unchanged. At hyperthermic conditions there were significant age-associated decreases in oxygen uptake, 14CO2 production, lactate production, and glucose utilization. Also, in the hyperthermia study, all values were raised from control study values (37 degrees C) with old animals showing smaller increases in glucose utilization and lactate formation. These findings indicate the dysfunction of a number of metabolic pathways in the aged animal.", "contents": "Effect of aging on brain respiration and carbohydrate metabolism of CBF1 mice. Brain slices of mice (strain CBF1) were used to study the effect of aging on cerebral cortex respiration and metabolism. Young animals (average age 6 months) were compared with old animals (average age 34 months). Metabolism was measured at a normal temperature (37 degrees C) and under hyperthermic stress (40 degrees C). The brain slices were incubated with 14C-glucose under standard conditions with the following parameters being measured: oxygen uptake, 14CO2 production, glucose utilization, and lactate and pyruvate formation. At the normal temperature, there were significant age-associated decreases in oxygen uptake and 14CO2 production but the other parameters were unchanged. At hyperthermic conditions there were significant age-associated decreases in oxygen uptake, 14CO2 production, lactate production, and glucose utilization. Also, in the hyperthermia study, all values were raised from control study values (37 degrees C) with old animals showing smaller increases in glucose utilization and lactate formation. These findings indicate the dysfunction of a number of metabolic pathways in the aged animal.", "PMID": 456892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12389", "title": "Regional differences of neuron loss of rat brain in old age.", "content": "DNA content was measured in four areas of the brain (cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum, diencephalon, and lower brain stem) of young adult (5-month-old) and aged 24- to 30-month-old Long-Evans rats. There was no change in DNA content in all four areas in old age. The number of brain cells was counted in three areas of the brain (cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum and brain stem) with an ultrasonic separation method. In old age, there was significant loss in the total number of brain cells in the cerebellum but no cell loss in the cerebral hemisphere and the brain stem. The neuron number was significantly decreased and the glia/neuron ratio was increased in the cerebellum and cerebral hemisphere, but neither of them changed in the brain stem in old age. The cerebellum showed significantly more neuron loss than the cerebral hemisphere in old age. DNA content in individual brain cells in the cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum and brain stem does not change in old age; thus, calculation of brain cell number from DNA content in the brain of old rats is justified.", "contents": "Regional differences of neuron loss of rat brain in old age. DNA content was measured in four areas of the brain (cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum, diencephalon, and lower brain stem) of young adult (5-month-old) and aged 24- to 30-month-old Long-Evans rats. There was no change in DNA content in all four areas in old age. The number of brain cells was counted in three areas of the brain (cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum and brain stem) with an ultrasonic separation method. In old age, there was significant loss in the total number of brain cells in the cerebellum but no cell loss in the cerebral hemisphere and the brain stem. The neuron number was significantly decreased and the glia/neuron ratio was increased in the cerebellum and cerebral hemisphere, but neither of them changed in the brain stem in old age. The cerebellum showed significantly more neuron loss than the cerebral hemisphere in old age. DNA content in individual brain cells in the cerebral hemisphere, cerebellum and brain stem does not change in old age; thus, calculation of brain cell number from DNA content in the brain of old rats is justified.", "PMID": 456893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12390", "title": "Age-related changes of the pattern of non-histone chromatin proteins from rat and mouse liver chromatin.", "content": "The non-histone chromatin (NHC) proteins which are loosely bound to DNA were extracted from young and old mouse and rat liver chromatin by 0.35 M NaCl and fractionated into three groups: water-soluble, 0.14 M NaCl soluble and 0.35 M NaCl soluble. NHC proteins in each fraction were separated by SDS-disc polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Special attempts were made to locate minor high-molecular-weight proteins which develop faint bands. It was found that the aging of liver cells is associated with increase in number and quantities of high-molecular-weight NHC proteins in the water-soluble group. Salt-soluble groups of NHC proteins show fewer changes of pattern.", "contents": "Age-related changes of the pattern of non-histone chromatin proteins from rat and mouse liver chromatin. The non-histone chromatin (NHC) proteins which are loosely bound to DNA were extracted from young and old mouse and rat liver chromatin by 0.35 M NaCl and fractionated into three groups: water-soluble, 0.14 M NaCl soluble and 0.35 M NaCl soluble. NHC proteins in each fraction were separated by SDS-disc polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Special attempts were made to locate minor high-molecular-weight proteins which develop faint bands. It was found that the aging of liver cells is associated with increase in number and quantities of high-molecular-weight NHC proteins in the water-soluble group. Salt-soluble groups of NHC proteins show fewer changes of pattern.", "PMID": 456894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12391", "title": "Remembering the ribosome.", "content": "A recent review of Orgel's hypothesis by Kirkwood is considered in context of what is known about ribosomes.", "contents": "Remembering the ribosome. A recent review of Orgel's hypothesis by Kirkwood is considered in context of what is known about ribosomes.", "PMID": 456895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12392", "title": "Frequency of mandibular dysfunction symptoms in institutionalized elderly people.", "content": "Mandibular dysfunction symptoms were found in 74% of 375 elderly persons, aged 65 or over, 79% of the women and 59% of the men (p less than 0.001). 36% had one symptom, 26% two symptoms, 8.5% three symptoms, and 3% 4--5 symptoms. The most frequent were the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds (48%). Deviation of mandible on opening and/or closing movement was found in 44%, in women more often than men (p less than 0.05). The frequency of limited opening was 14%, higher among women than men (p less than 0.05). Tenderness to palpation laterally over the TMJ was observed in 14%. 7% reported pain on opening movement, women more often than men (p less than 0.01).", "contents": "Frequency of mandibular dysfunction symptoms in institutionalized elderly people. Mandibular dysfunction symptoms were found in 74% of 375 elderly persons, aged 65 or over, 79% of the women and 59% of the men (p less than 0.001). 36% had one symptom, 26% two symptoms, 8.5% three symptoms, and 3% 4--5 symptoms. The most frequent were the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds (48%). Deviation of mandible on opening and/or closing movement was found in 44%, in women more often than men (p less than 0.05). The frequency of limited opening was 14%, higher among women than men (p less than 0.05). Tenderness to palpation laterally over the TMJ was observed in 14%. 7% reported pain on opening movement, women more often than men (p less than 0.01).", "PMID": 456896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12393", "title": "Effects of isolation, handling and restraint on growth of rats.", "content": "The effects of 3 environmental conditions on physical growth and skeletal maturation were assessed in pair-fed rats. Rats subjected to restraint from ages 28 to 80 days weighed less and were shorter than pair-fed like-sex controls; skeletal maturation was unaffected. The observations cannot be attributed to handling, as those animals were heavier than their controls, or to isolation, which was found to be without effect on any of the measurements. The adverse effects of restraint on physical growth are attributed to increased adrenal cortical activity, reflected in increased adrenal weight.", "contents": "Effects of isolation, handling and restraint on growth of rats. The effects of 3 environmental conditions on physical growth and skeletal maturation were assessed in pair-fed rats. Rats subjected to restraint from ages 28 to 80 days weighed less and were shorter than pair-fed like-sex controls; skeletal maturation was unaffected. The observations cannot be attributed to handling, as those animals were heavier than their controls, or to isolation, which was found to be without effect on any of the measurements. The adverse effects of restraint on physical growth are attributed to increased adrenal cortical activity, reflected in increased adrenal weight.", "PMID": 456927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12394", "title": "The inheritance of growth and form in the mouse. IV. Changes in the variance components of weight, tail length and tail width during growth.", "content": "A complete diallel cross, including inbreds and reciprocals, was made among six inbred lines of mice. Body weight, tail length and tail width were measured at ages of 1 through 12 weeks. The analysis described by Griffing (1956a, 1956b, 1958) as the modified diallel, method 3, model II was made for each trait at each age, a separate analysis being made for each sex. Inbreds did not contribute to estimates of the effects in the diallel model, but were used to estimate heterosis. Positive heterosis was observed for all three traits. Heritability increased with age for all three traits, although it remained small for tail width; for body weight it was larger in females than for males, while for tail length and width the opposite was true. Non-additive genetic variance was observed for all three traits. Maternal effects variance was virtually non-existent for tail length, but for body weight and tail width exhibited a marked peak around weaning, followed by a gradual decline for body weight and a rapid decline for tail width. Environmental variance exhibited a marked peak at weaning for all three traits and was larger for male body weight and tail length from four weeks onward. Residual reciprocal effects were important for tail length at all ages, but were small or negligible for body weight and tail width. It is concluded that the relative importance of the individual's genotype in determining size increases with age, while that of non-genetic factors declines.", "contents": "The inheritance of growth and form in the mouse. IV. Changes in the variance components of weight, tail length and tail width during growth. A complete diallel cross, including inbreds and reciprocals, was made among six inbred lines of mice. Body weight, tail length and tail width were measured at ages of 1 through 12 weeks. The analysis described by Griffing (1956a, 1956b, 1958) as the modified diallel, method 3, model II was made for each trait at each age, a separate analysis being made for each sex. Inbreds did not contribute to estimates of the effects in the diallel model, but were used to estimate heterosis. Positive heterosis was observed for all three traits. Heritability increased with age for all three traits, although it remained small for tail width; for body weight it was larger in females than for males, while for tail length and width the opposite was true. Non-additive genetic variance was observed for all three traits. Maternal effects variance was virtually non-existent for tail length, but for body weight and tail width exhibited a marked peak around weaning, followed by a gradual decline for body weight and a rapid decline for tail width. Environmental variance exhibited a marked peak at weaning for all three traits and was larger for male body weight and tail length from four weeks onward. Residual reciprocal effects were important for tail length at all ages, but were small or negligible for body weight and tail width. It is concluded that the relative importance of the individual's genotype in determining size increases with age, while that of non-genetic factors declines.", "PMID": 456928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12395", "title": "The inheritance of growth and form in the mouse. V. Allometric growth.", "content": "A complete diallel cross, including inbreds and reciprocals, was made among six inbred lines of mice. Body weight, tail length and tail width were measured at ages of 1 through 12 weeks. The parameters of 4 longitudinal allometric relations, y = bxa, were determined for each mouse: tail length vs. body weight for weight for weeks 1 through 9 and for weeks 1 through 12, and tail width vs. body weight for the same periods. The estimated value of a was taken as one variable and the value of log y corresponding to a weight of 12 g or 15 g for 9 or 12 pairs of measurements was taken as the other. The allometric equation appears to provide a satisfactory empirical description of the relative growth of tail length and width vs. body weight. The diallel analysis suggests a low heritability for a for both sexes and both periods and an intermediate heritability for the location parameters.", "contents": "The inheritance of growth and form in the mouse. V. Allometric growth. A complete diallel cross, including inbreds and reciprocals, was made among six inbred lines of mice. Body weight, tail length and tail width were measured at ages of 1 through 12 weeks. The parameters of 4 longitudinal allometric relations, y = bxa, were determined for each mouse: tail length vs. body weight for weight for weeks 1 through 9 and for weeks 1 through 12, and tail width vs. body weight for the same periods. The estimated value of a was taken as one variable and the value of log y corresponding to a weight of 12 g or 15 g for 9 or 12 pairs of measurements was taken as the other. The allometric equation appears to provide a satisfactory empirical description of the relative growth of tail length and width vs. body weight. The diallel analysis suggests a low heritability for a for both sexes and both periods and an intermediate heritability for the location parameters.", "PMID": 456929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12396", "title": "The effect of progesterone on brain and body growth of chick embryos.", "content": "It has been suggested that in the embryo hormonal steroids may act also as control factors for the growth of neural systems. In the present work progesterone was introduced onto the chorioallantoic membrane of the chick embryo on day 7 or days 7 and 10 of incubation. The embryo, dissected at day 10, showed significant increases in body weight and cerebral hemispheres weight. The response at day 13 was less pronounced; male embryos responded to progesterone more than the female embryos. Progesterone is a precursor to other corticosteroids, but corticosterone itself had a significant harmful effect on embryonal growth. Several possible explanations of these results have been offered. It appears that progesterone itself promotes the growth of the early embryo, but the effect depends on its age and sex.", "contents": "The effect of progesterone on brain and body growth of chick embryos. It has been suggested that in the embryo hormonal steroids may act also as control factors for the growth of neural systems. In the present work progesterone was introduced onto the chorioallantoic membrane of the chick embryo on day 7 or days 7 and 10 of incubation. The embryo, dissected at day 10, showed significant increases in body weight and cerebral hemispheres weight. The response at day 13 was less pronounced; male embryos responded to progesterone more than the female embryos. Progesterone is a precursor to other corticosteroids, but corticosterone itself had a significant harmful effect on embryonal growth. Several possible explanations of these results have been offered. It appears that progesterone itself promotes the growth of the early embryo, but the effect depends on its age and sex.", "PMID": 456930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12397", "title": "Serum electrolyte concentrations in Sinclair(S-1) miniature swine from 1 through 36 months of age.", "content": "Venous blood samples were collected monthly from 60 male and 60 female Sinclair(S-1) miniature swine from 1 through 36 months of age. The rate of serum urea nitrogen concentration decreased instantaneously for females and increased instantaneously for males as described in the equation y = aebt. Serum creatinine concentration decreased through 20 months of age and increased from 20 through 36 months of age. Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, potassium and sodium concentrations decreased instantaneously through 36 months of age. From 14 through 36 months of age, males had a greater mean serum urea nitrogen concentration than did females.", "contents": "Serum electrolyte concentrations in Sinclair(S-1) miniature swine from 1 through 36 months of age. Venous blood samples were collected monthly from 60 male and 60 female Sinclair(S-1) miniature swine from 1 through 36 months of age. The rate of serum urea nitrogen concentration decreased instantaneously for females and increased instantaneously for males as described in the equation y = aebt. Serum creatinine concentration decreased through 20 months of age and increased from 20 through 36 months of age. Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, potassium and sodium concentrations decreased instantaneously through 36 months of age. From 14 through 36 months of age, males had a greater mean serum urea nitrogen concentration than did females.", "PMID": 456931} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12398", "title": "Control of anticoagulant therapy with a chromogenic substrate.", "content": "Prothrombin is determined with the aid of a recently developed assay, based on the amidolysis of a chromogenic substrate. The assay proved to be reliable when it was compared with more conventional coagulation assays in the control of oral anticoagulant therapy, both in the therapeutic range and in a case of overdosage. As is the case in coagulation tests, heparin therapy remains a disturbing circumstance. The prothrombin concentration was measured (a) in the plasma of 50 long-term anticoagulated patients, and the results were compared with those obtained with a one-stage coagulation assay and with those obtained with Thrombotest determinations, and (b) during vitamin K administration in the plasma of a patient with a severe intoxication of a vitamin K antagonist.", "contents": "Control of anticoagulant therapy with a chromogenic substrate. Prothrombin is determined with the aid of a recently developed assay, based on the amidolysis of a chromogenic substrate. The assay proved to be reliable when it was compared with more conventional coagulation assays in the control of oral anticoagulant therapy, both in the therapeutic range and in a case of overdosage. As is the case in coagulation tests, heparin therapy remains a disturbing circumstance. The prothrombin concentration was measured (a) in the plasma of 50 long-term anticoagulated patients, and the results were compared with those obtained with a one-stage coagulation assay and with those obtained with Thrombotest determinations, and (b) during vitamin K administration in the plasma of a patient with a severe intoxication of a vitamin K antagonist.", "PMID": 456941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12399", "title": "Platelet adhesion and platelet thrombus formation on subendothelium of human arteries and veins exposed to flowing blood in vitro. A comparison with rabbit aorta.", "content": "Subendothelium of blood vessel segments from elderly patients was exposed in a perfusion chamber to citrated blood under arterial blood flow conditions. The resulting platelet adhesion and thrombus formation was assessed morphometrically. The results show that the time course and the extent of platelet adhesion and aggregation were similar to the results obtained previously with subendothelium from rabbit arteries. The extent of surface-induced platelet aggregation was furthermore governed by both the properties of the exposed surface as well as those of the blood perfusate. No significant differences with regard to platelet reactivity were found between veins and arteries and the extent of surface-induced platelet aggregation was rather low.", "contents": "Platelet adhesion and platelet thrombus formation on subendothelium of human arteries and veins exposed to flowing blood in vitro. A comparison with rabbit aorta. Subendothelium of blood vessel segments from elderly patients was exposed in a perfusion chamber to citrated blood under arterial blood flow conditions. The resulting platelet adhesion and thrombus formation was assessed morphometrically. The results show that the time course and the extent of platelet adhesion and aggregation were similar to the results obtained previously with subendothelium from rabbit arteries. The extent of surface-induced platelet aggregation was furthermore governed by both the properties of the exposed surface as well as those of the blood perfusate. No significant differences with regard to platelet reactivity were found between veins and arteries and the extent of surface-induced platelet aggregation was rather low.", "PMID": 456942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12400", "title": "Platelet aggregation and antithrombin III levels in diabetic children.", "content": "We studied platelet function and antithrombrin III levels in 30 insulin-dependent diabetic children with no clinically evident vascular complications. 9 were in-patients and 21 were out-patients. The disease had been discovered within the previous 10 years. 25 control subjects of comparable age and body weight were studied simultaneously. Template bleeding time, threshold concentrations of ADP or adrenaline required to induce irreversible platelet aggregation and plasma antiherparin activity (platelet factor 4) did not differ significantly in control and patient groups. In contrast, the immunological levels of plasma antithrombine III were significantly higher in the diabetic group. These results suggest that diabetic children, with no clinical signs of microanigopathy, show no laboratory changes suggesting increased platelet function. The unxpected increase in the antithrombin III level could reflect a very early defense mechanism against activation of the blood clotting system.", "contents": "Platelet aggregation and antithrombin III levels in diabetic children. We studied platelet function and antithrombrin III levels in 30 insulin-dependent diabetic children with no clinically evident vascular complications. 9 were in-patients and 21 were out-patients. The disease had been discovered within the previous 10 years. 25 control subjects of comparable age and body weight were studied simultaneously. Template bleeding time, threshold concentrations of ADP or adrenaline required to induce irreversible platelet aggregation and plasma antiherparin activity (platelet factor 4) did not differ significantly in control and patient groups. In contrast, the immunological levels of plasma antithrombine III were significantly higher in the diabetic group. These results suggest that diabetic children, with no clinical signs of microanigopathy, show no laboratory changes suggesting increased platelet function. The unxpected increase in the antithrombin III level could reflect a very early defense mechanism against activation of the blood clotting system.", "PMID": 456943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12401", "title": "Platelet adhesiveness in ischemic heart disease.", "content": "The adhesiveness of platelets to collagen and glass was studies ex vivo in groups of patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Adhesiveness was increased to glass and normal collagen in both groups of patients. No relation was found between reinfarction rate and adhesiveness in the acute stage of AMI. Electrophoretic mobility of platelets was the same in the AMI patients and a normal control group. It suggested that the increased 'retention' of platelets in IHD patients might be due more to platelet hyperaggregation or to hypersensitivity to platelet aggregating agents than to altered adhesiveness.", "contents": "Platelet adhesiveness in ischemic heart disease. The adhesiveness of platelets to collagen and glass was studies ex vivo in groups of patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Adhesiveness was increased to glass and normal collagen in both groups of patients. No relation was found between reinfarction rate and adhesiveness in the acute stage of AMI. Electrophoretic mobility of platelets was the same in the AMI patients and a normal control group. It suggested that the increased 'retention' of platelets in IHD patients might be due more to platelet hyperaggregation or to hypersensitivity to platelet aggregating agents than to altered adhesiveness.", "PMID": 456944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12402", "title": "The thrombogenicity of 6-azouridine.", "content": "The antimetabolite 6-azauridine blocks the de novo synthesis of pyrimidines and causes increased serum levels of several amino acids including homocystine. 6-Azauridine was was withdrawn from clinical use for the treatment of psoriasis because of the occurence of arterial and venous thromboembolic episodes in some psoriatic patients. Utilizing a standard animal model for the recognition of venous and arterial thrombosis, 6-azauridine was demonstrated in this study to cause thrombosis without producing homocystinemia when administered orally or intravenously.", "contents": "The thrombogenicity of 6-azouridine. The antimetabolite 6-azauridine blocks the de novo synthesis of pyrimidines and causes increased serum levels of several amino acids including homocystine. 6-Azauridine was was withdrawn from clinical use for the treatment of psoriasis because of the occurence of arterial and venous thromboembolic episodes in some psoriatic patients. Utilizing a standard animal model for the recognition of venous and arterial thrombosis, 6-azauridine was demonstrated in this study to cause thrombosis without producing homocystinemia when administered orally or intravenously.", "PMID": 456945} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12403", "title": "Biotransformations of anthracyclinones in Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and Streptomyces galilaeus.", "content": "The ability to transorm biologically exogenous daunomycinone, 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, aklavinone, 7-deoxyaklavinone, epsilon-rhodomycinone, epsilon-isorhodomycinone and epsilon-pyrromycinone was studied in submerged cultures of the following strains: wild Streptomyces coeruleorubidus JA 10092 (W1) and its improved variants 39-146 and 84-17 (type P1) producing glycosides of daunomycinone and of 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, together with epsilon-rhodomycinone, 13-dihydrodaunomycinone and 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone; in five mutant types of S. coeruleorubidus (A, B, C, D, E) blocked in the biosynthesis of glycosides and differing in the production of free anthracyclinones; in the wild Streptomyces galilaeus JA 3043 (W2) and its improved variant G-167 (P2) producing glycosides of epsilon-pyrromycinone and of aklavinone together with 7-deoxy and bisanhydro derivatives of both aglycones; in two mutant types S. galilaeus (F and G) blocked in biosynthesis of glycosides and differing in the occurrence of anthracyclinones. The following bioconversions were observed: daunomycinone leads to 13-dihydrodaunomycinone and 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone (all strains); 13-dihydrodaunomycinone leads to 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone (all strains); daunomycinone or 13-dihydrodaunomycinone leads to glycosides of daunomycinone and of 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, identical with metabolites W1 and P1 (type A), or only a single glycoside of daunomycinone (type E); aklavinone leads to epsilon-rhodomycinone (types A and B); aklaviinone leads to 7-deoxyaklavinone and bisanhydroaklavinone (type C); epsilon-rhodomycinone leads to zeta-rhodomycinone (types C, E); epsilon-rhodomycinone leads to glycosides of epsilon-rhodomycinone (types W2, P2); epsilon-isorhodomycinone leads to glycosides of epsilon-isorhodomycinone (types W2, P2); epsilon-pyrromycinone leads to a glycoside of epsilon-pyrromycinone (types W1, P1). 7-Deoxyaklavinone remained intact in all tests. Exogenous daunomycinone suppressed the biosynthesis of its own glycosides in W1 and P1; it simultaneously increased the production of epsilon-rhodomycinone in P1.", "contents": "Biotransformations of anthracyclinones in Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and Streptomyces galilaeus. The ability to transorm biologically exogenous daunomycinone, 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, aklavinone, 7-deoxyaklavinone, epsilon-rhodomycinone, epsilon-isorhodomycinone and epsilon-pyrromycinone was studied in submerged cultures of the following strains: wild Streptomyces coeruleorubidus JA 10092 (W1) and its improved variants 39-146 and 84-17 (type P1) producing glycosides of daunomycinone and of 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, together with epsilon-rhodomycinone, 13-dihydrodaunomycinone and 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone; in five mutant types of S. coeruleorubidus (A, B, C, D, E) blocked in the biosynthesis of glycosides and differing in the production of free anthracyclinones; in the wild Streptomyces galilaeus JA 3043 (W2) and its improved variant G-167 (P2) producing glycosides of epsilon-pyrromycinone and of aklavinone together with 7-deoxy and bisanhydro derivatives of both aglycones; in two mutant types S. galilaeus (F and G) blocked in biosynthesis of glycosides and differing in the occurrence of anthracyclinones. The following bioconversions were observed: daunomycinone leads to 13-dihydrodaunomycinone and 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone (all strains); 13-dihydrodaunomycinone leads to 7-deoxy-13-dihydrodaunomycinone (all strains); daunomycinone or 13-dihydrodaunomycinone leads to glycosides of daunomycinone and of 13-dihydrodaunomycinone, identical with metabolites W1 and P1 (type A), or only a single glycoside of daunomycinone (type E); aklavinone leads to epsilon-rhodomycinone (types A and B); aklaviinone leads to 7-deoxyaklavinone and bisanhydroaklavinone (type C); epsilon-rhodomycinone leads to zeta-rhodomycinone (types C, E); epsilon-rhodomycinone leads to glycosides of epsilon-rhodomycinone (types W2, P2); epsilon-isorhodomycinone leads to glycosides of epsilon-isorhodomycinone (types W2, P2); epsilon-pyrromycinone leads to a glycoside of epsilon-pyrromycinone (types W1, P1). 7-Deoxyaklavinone remained intact in all tests. Exogenous daunomycinone suppressed the biosynthesis of its own glycosides in W1 and P1; it simultaneously increased the production of epsilon-rhodomycinone in P1.", "PMID": 456946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12404", "title": "Intra- and interspecific cosynthetic activity of mutants of Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and Streptomyces galilaeus impaired in the biosynthesis of anthracyclines.", "content": "Cosynthesis of anthracycline compounds was followed in five phenotypic groups of mutants of Streptomyces coeruleorubidus (A--E), blocked in the biosynthesis of the daunomycine complex, and in two mutant types of Streptomyces galilaeus (F, G) blocked in the biosynthesis of glycosides of epsilon-pyrromycinone and aklavinone. Glycosides of daunomycinone and 13-dihydrodaunomycinone were produced in combinations A+B, A+C, A+D, A+E and A+F, epsilon-rhodomycinone was synthesized in combinations A+E, A+F, B+E and B+F. During the cultivation of types B--E with type G or F non-anthracycline compounds, typical of S. galilaeus, were cosynthesized. No cosynthesis could be observed in other combinations of the mutant types. Negative results were also obtained with combinations of mutants of the same group and during cultivation of all mutant types with streptomycetes not producing anthracyclines. A scheme illustrating metabolic pathways leading to the biosynthesis of daunomycinone, aklavinone, epsilon-rhodomycinone in S. coeruleorubidus and S. galilaeus was constructed.", "contents": "Intra- and interspecific cosynthetic activity of mutants of Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and Streptomyces galilaeus impaired in the biosynthesis of anthracyclines. Cosynthesis of anthracycline compounds was followed in five phenotypic groups of mutants of Streptomyces coeruleorubidus (A--E), blocked in the biosynthesis of the daunomycine complex, and in two mutant types of Streptomyces galilaeus (F, G) blocked in the biosynthesis of glycosides of epsilon-pyrromycinone and aklavinone. Glycosides of daunomycinone and 13-dihydrodaunomycinone were produced in combinations A+B, A+C, A+D, A+E and A+F, epsilon-rhodomycinone was synthesized in combinations A+E, A+F, B+E and B+F. During the cultivation of types B--E with type G or F non-anthracycline compounds, typical of S. galilaeus, were cosynthesized. No cosynthesis could be observed in other combinations of the mutant types. Negative results were also obtained with combinations of mutants of the same group and during cultivation of all mutant types with streptomycetes not producing anthracyclines. A scheme illustrating metabolic pathways leading to the biosynthesis of daunomycinone, aklavinone, epsilon-rhodomycinone in S. coeruleorubidus and S. galilaeus was constructed.", "PMID": 456947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12405", "title": "Growth of Candida tropicalis 2838 cells on straw hydrolyzates.", "content": "Improved strain of Candida tropicalis 2838 grows on nonseparated straw hydrolyzates with no addition of vitamins and trace elements at a specific growth rate mu = 0.34 and 44% yield coefficient (referred to reducing substances). The reducing substances in hydrolyzates contain predominantly monosaccharides (xylose, glucose, arabinose, mannose). Cells grown in this way are rich in proteins (62%) and essential amino acids (lysine, phenylalanine, leucine, threonine and valine). The product obtained under industrial conditions by fermentation of the nonseparated hydrolyzates contains 8--9% of proteins and it is a suitable supplement of fodder mixtures for monogastric domestic animals. Nutrition tests on rats and pigs indicated that this product can substitute the hay-flour, and, partially, blood-flour barley, and that the strain used is nonpathogenic.", "contents": "Growth of Candida tropicalis 2838 cells on straw hydrolyzates. Improved strain of Candida tropicalis 2838 grows on nonseparated straw hydrolyzates with no addition of vitamins and trace elements at a specific growth rate mu = 0.34 and 44% yield coefficient (referred to reducing substances). The reducing substances in hydrolyzates contain predominantly monosaccharides (xylose, glucose, arabinose, mannose). Cells grown in this way are rich in proteins (62%) and essential amino acids (lysine, phenylalanine, leucine, threonine and valine). The product obtained under industrial conditions by fermentation of the nonseparated hydrolyzates contains 8--9% of proteins and it is a suitable supplement of fodder mixtures for monogastric domestic animals. Nutrition tests on rats and pigs indicated that this product can substitute the hay-flour, and, partially, blood-flour barley, and that the strain used is nonpathogenic.", "PMID": 456948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12406", "title": "Formation of DL-alanine by Corynebacterium sp. 9366-EMS/270.", "content": "After a 4-d cultivation in a medium containing 7.5% glucose, 0.6% ammonium nitrate and 0.5% peptone, the leaky mutant Corynebacterium sp. 9366-EMS/270 stimulated in its growth by arginine, was found to accumulate 12.2 g DL-alanine per litre medium.", "contents": "Formation of DL-alanine by Corynebacterium sp. 9366-EMS/270. After a 4-d cultivation in a medium containing 7.5% glucose, 0.6% ammonium nitrate and 0.5% peptone, the leaky mutant Corynebacterium sp. 9366-EMS/270 stimulated in its growth by arginine, was found to accumulate 12.2 g DL-alanine per litre medium.", "PMID": 456949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12407", "title": "Genetic mapping of the bacteriophage PS8 of Agrobacterium tumefaciens.", "content": "Genetic mapping of the chromosome of the bacteriophage PS8 of Agrobacterium tumefaciens using temperature sensitive (ts) mutants of the bacteriophage is described.", "contents": "Genetic mapping of the bacteriophage PS8 of Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Genetic mapping of the chromosome of the bacteriophage PS8 of Agrobacterium tumefaciens using temperature sensitive (ts) mutants of the bacteriophage is described.", "PMID": 456950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12408", "title": "Formation of L-alanine by Streptomyces coelicolor 3-19.", "content": "Fermentative preparation of L-alanine by Streptomyces coelicolor 3-19 was developed under laboratory conditions. In a medium containing glucose, corn-steep and mineral salts, the strain accumulated 9 g L-alanine per litre after four days of cultivation.", "contents": "Formation of L-alanine by Streptomyces coelicolor 3-19. Fermentative preparation of L-alanine by Streptomyces coelicolor 3-19 was developed under laboratory conditions. In a medium containing glucose, corn-steep and mineral salts, the strain accumulated 9 g L-alanine per litre after four days of cultivation.", "PMID": 456951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12409", "title": "Distribution of type A and type B monoamine oxidase activity in hypothalamic nuclei of the rat.", "content": "The regional distribution of type A, type A and B and type B activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) in individual nuclei of the rat hypothalamus was studied according to quantitative micromethods with clorgyline as a specific inhibitor of type A MAO. As results, type A and type B MAO were distributed differently in the rat hypothalamus. It is suggested that type B MAO acts differently from type A MAO in regard to the function of the hypothalamus.", "contents": "Distribution of type A and type B monoamine oxidase activity in hypothalamic nuclei of the rat. The regional distribution of type A, type A and B and type B activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) in individual nuclei of the rat hypothalamus was studied according to quantitative micromethods with clorgyline as a specific inhibitor of type A MAO. As results, type A and type B MAO were distributed differently in the rat hypothalamus. It is suggested that type B MAO acts differently from type A MAO in regard to the function of the hypothalamus.", "PMID": 456952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12410", "title": "Effects of acute and chronic ethanol administration on amino acid metabolism in rabbit brain and blood.", "content": "Acute administration of ethanol increased the cerebrocortical amino acids derived through the tricarboxylic acid cycle except for GABA and decreased the plasma alanine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, and phenylalanine whereas chronic administration of ethanol caused no significant changes in the cerebrocortical amino acids and increased the plasma glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, and ornithine, with decreases in taurine and phenylalanine. Result of this experiment suggests that the CNS-depressant effect of ethanol is related to changes in the GABA system and increased uptake by the brain of the branched-chain amino acids while the development of tolerance to ethanol is associated with cellular adaptation in the CNS.", "contents": "Effects of acute and chronic ethanol administration on amino acid metabolism in rabbit brain and blood. Acute administration of ethanol increased the cerebrocortical amino acids derived through the tricarboxylic acid cycle except for GABA and decreased the plasma alanine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, and phenylalanine whereas chronic administration of ethanol caused no significant changes in the cerebrocortical amino acids and increased the plasma glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, and ornithine, with decreases in taurine and phenylalanine. Result of this experiment suggests that the CNS-depressant effect of ethanol is related to changes in the GABA system and increased uptake by the brain of the branched-chain amino acids while the development of tolerance to ethanol is associated with cellular adaptation in the CNS.", "PMID": 456953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12411", "title": "Experimental chronic lead poisoning.", "content": "In the peripheral nerve, the distal part of the nerve fibers was remarkably damaged--periaxial segmental demyelination--while the proximal part of nerve fibers was only slightly affected. In the CNS, perivascular edema of the small blood vessels and capillaries was observed in the cerebral cortex and cerebellar cortex. All endothelial cells of these blood vessels showed a high electron density with many pinocytotic vesicles and ribosomes. Following these changes, the nerve fibers adjacent to the edema were destroyed. The above-mentioned findings seem to indicate that lead induces a toxic effect on the blood vessel and produces perivascular edema in the CNS of adult animals. This may induce brain dysfunction.", "contents": "Experimental chronic lead poisoning. In the peripheral nerve, the distal part of the nerve fibers was remarkably damaged--periaxial segmental demyelination--while the proximal part of nerve fibers was only slightly affected. In the CNS, perivascular edema of the small blood vessels and capillaries was observed in the cerebral cortex and cerebellar cortex. All endothelial cells of these blood vessels showed a high electron density with many pinocytotic vesicles and ribosomes. Following these changes, the nerve fibers adjacent to the edema were destroyed. The above-mentioned findings seem to indicate that lead induces a toxic effect on the blood vessel and produces perivascular edema in the CNS of adult animals. This may induce brain dysfunction.", "PMID": 456954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12412", "title": "A recent trend of drug dependence in Kurume district (southern Japan).", "content": "With the intention of grasping the trend of drug dependence in recent years, a comparative study was made of the relative prevalence of three different types of drug dependence, i.e., the sociopathic, neurotic and iatrogenic types, in each of the three postwar decades among patients seen at the neuropsychiatric clinic of Kurume University. As a result it was found that the recent trend of drug dependence has the following features: (1) multiplicity of drugs involved, (2) a continuing high incidence of the iatrogenic types, (3) resurgence of the sociopathic type, making the recent pattern of drug dependence similar to that prevailing in postwar years, and (4) prevalence of dependence or abuse among the younger generation. Consideration was also given to the sociopathologic significance of these recent features of drug dependence.", "contents": "A recent trend of drug dependence in Kurume district (southern Japan). With the intention of grasping the trend of drug dependence in recent years, a comparative study was made of the relative prevalence of three different types of drug dependence, i.e., the sociopathic, neurotic and iatrogenic types, in each of the three postwar decades among patients seen at the neuropsychiatric clinic of Kurume University. As a result it was found that the recent trend of drug dependence has the following features: (1) multiplicity of drugs involved, (2) a continuing high incidence of the iatrogenic types, (3) resurgence of the sociopathic type, making the recent pattern of drug dependence similar to that prevailing in postwar years, and (4) prevalence of dependence or abuse among the younger generation. Consideration was also given to the sociopathologic significance of these recent features of drug dependence.", "PMID": 456957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12413", "title": "An autopsy case of multiple leucoencephalitis showing hemiatrophy of the brain.", "content": "A 39-year-old female died 25 years after the onset of epileptic seizure. In the clinical course, she suffered epileptic seizures, left hemiparesis and muscular atrophy of the left upper extremity, psychological character change, dementia, forced laughter and hallucinatory and delusional states. Pathologically, severe changes were found in the right hemisphere consisting of lesions of white matter with myelin loss, especially in the frontal, temporal and occipital lobes. Gliosis was diffusely observed in the white matter excepting areas with severe changes. In some parts of the cortex, the cytoarchitecture was destroyed and in this area, blood vessels numerously increased. In the left occipital white matter, perivascular infiltration mainly consisting of lymphocytes was observed with numerous fat granule cells and gemystocytic astrocytes around them. The present case may belong to the category of multiple leucoencephalitis, however, it had many characteristic features, such as a long clinical course (25 years) and pathologically revealed hemiatrophy of the brain.", "contents": "An autopsy case of multiple leucoencephalitis showing hemiatrophy of the brain. A 39-year-old female died 25 years after the onset of epileptic seizure. In the clinical course, she suffered epileptic seizures, left hemiparesis and muscular atrophy of the left upper extremity, psychological character change, dementia, forced laughter and hallucinatory and delusional states. Pathologically, severe changes were found in the right hemisphere consisting of lesions of white matter with myelin loss, especially in the frontal, temporal and occipital lobes. Gliosis was diffusely observed in the white matter excepting areas with severe changes. In some parts of the cortex, the cytoarchitecture was destroyed and in this area, blood vessels numerously increased. In the left occipital white matter, perivascular infiltration mainly consisting of lymphocytes was observed with numerous fat granule cells and gemystocytic astrocytes around them. The present case may belong to the category of multiple leucoencephalitis, however, it had many characteristic features, such as a long clinical course (25 years) and pathologically revealed hemiatrophy of the brain.", "PMID": 456958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12414", "title": "Hallucinatory and delusional states in connection with blood pressure and EEG.", "content": "Twenty-two patients who had low blood pressure with hallucinatory and delusional states were examined. Nineteen cases showed low voltage fast waves in EEG. By treatment with haloperidol the symptoms as well as the blood pressure and EEG showed improvement. From the above findings, the hallucinatory and delusional states observed in this study may have a close connection with dysfunction of the lower brain or disharmony of function between the upper and the lower brains.", "contents": "Hallucinatory and delusional states in connection with blood pressure and EEG. Twenty-two patients who had low blood pressure with hallucinatory and delusional states were examined. Nineteen cases showed low voltage fast waves in EEG. By treatment with haloperidol the symptoms as well as the blood pressure and EEG showed improvement. From the above findings, the hallucinatory and delusional states observed in this study may have a close connection with dysfunction of the lower brain or disharmony of function between the upper and the lower brains.", "PMID": 456959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12415", "title": "Paroxysmal dysesthesia in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Seven cases of multiple sclerosis with paroxysmal dysesthesias of an upper extremity were reported. This seizure characteristically is a purely sensory one induced by movements and is not accompanied by convulsions or a disorder of voluntary movements. In other ways it shares some features with other paroxysmal manifestations seen in MS. Clinical observations with subsequent neurophysiologic considerations have led to the hypothesis that paroxysmal dysesthesias are segmental symptoms with their foci lying in or about the spinal cord.", "contents": "Paroxysmal dysesthesia in multiple sclerosis. Seven cases of multiple sclerosis with paroxysmal dysesthesias of an upper extremity were reported. This seizure characteristically is a purely sensory one induced by movements and is not accompanied by convulsions or a disorder of voluntary movements. In other ways it shares some features with other paroxysmal manifestations seen in MS. Clinical observations with subsequent neurophysiologic considerations have led to the hypothesis that paroxysmal dysesthesias are segmental symptoms with their foci lying in or about the spinal cord.", "PMID": 456960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12416", "title": "Cardiac lesions in intravenous drug addicts.", "content": "Postmortem findings in 25 intravenous addicts of centrally stimulating amines and centrally depressive narcotics (opiates) have been analysed with special reference to the presence of pathologic findings in the heart, and the cause of death. Most cases exhibited myocardial lesions of varying age, consistent with various phases of myofibrillar degeneration, such as hemorrhages, contraction bands, focal necroses, granulation tissue, stromal condensation, and scarring, indicating an active chronic process in the myocardium and the subendocardium, with a bias toward the conduction system of the heart. The lesions have been found in drug addicts who died immediately following an injection of narcotics as well as in those who, irrespective of their drug influence, have died following intervening injuries or disease. Cardiac lesions in drug addicts seem to have a variety of causative factors: infections, toxic influence, hypersensitivity, influence of catecholamines and general hypoxia. The authors feel that the two latter suggested causes appear most regularly and deserve special attention. The significance of these heart lesions seems to vary, but at times they may be the determining factor in the fatal outcome of a case.", "contents": "Cardiac lesions in intravenous drug addicts. Postmortem findings in 25 intravenous addicts of centrally stimulating amines and centrally depressive narcotics (opiates) have been analysed with special reference to the presence of pathologic findings in the heart, and the cause of death. Most cases exhibited myocardial lesions of varying age, consistent with various phases of myofibrillar degeneration, such as hemorrhages, contraction bands, focal necroses, granulation tissue, stromal condensation, and scarring, indicating an active chronic process in the myocardium and the subendocardium, with a bias toward the conduction system of the heart. The lesions have been found in drug addicts who died immediately following an injection of narcotics as well as in those who, irrespective of their drug influence, have died following intervening injuries or disease. Cardiac lesions in drug addicts seem to have a variety of causative factors: infections, toxic influence, hypersensitivity, influence of catecholamines and general hypoxia. The authors feel that the two latter suggested causes appear most regularly and deserve special attention. The significance of these heart lesions seems to vary, but at times they may be the determining factor in the fatal outcome of a case.", "PMID": 456961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12417", "title": "The histology of myocardium in malignant hyperthermia: a preliminary report of 11 cases.", "content": "The preliminary results of a retrospective examination of the myocardium from 11 patients who responded to general anaesthesia with malignant hyperthermia are presented. Light-microscopical examination of the sections revealed no specific changes due to malignant hyperthermia. Contraction bands were demonstrated in 4 cases and it is concluded that the present investigation does not support the suggestion that a specific myofibrillar damage is responsbile for the arrhythmias seen in malignant hyperthermia.", "contents": "The histology of myocardium in malignant hyperthermia: a preliminary report of 11 cases. The preliminary results of a retrospective examination of the myocardium from 11 patients who responded to general anaesthesia with malignant hyperthermia are presented. Light-microscopical examination of the sections revealed no specific changes due to malignant hyperthermia. Contraction bands were demonstrated in 4 cases and it is concluded that the present investigation does not support the suggestion that a specific myofibrillar damage is responsbile for the arrhythmias seen in malignant hyperthermia.", "PMID": 456962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12418", "title": "An international comparison of mortality in middle-aged men from cardiovascular diseases during 1970--1974.", "content": "An international comparison of mortality rates in middle-aged men (35--54 years) from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) during the period 1970--1974 was made. The material for this study was obtained from the statistics of the WHO (World Health Statist. Ann. 1970--1974, Vol. I, Vital Statistics of Causes of Death. WHO, Geneva, 1973--1976). The mean death rate of middle-aged men from all CVD and ischaemic heart diseases was clearly higher in Finland than in any other country in the world during the 5-year period. The mortality rates according to all ICD (International Classification of Diseases) main groups of diseases were determined for a selected group of countries containing all the Scandinavian countries, the United States, Canada, Hungary, Australia, Scotland, and Czechoslovakia. The death rates of all natural (ICSI-XVI) and unnatural causes (ICDXVII) were higher in Finland than in the other selected countries. Also the proportion of cardiovascular deaths as a percentage of all natural deaths was clearly higher in Finland than in any of the above countries, whereas in these countries proportionally more deaths were due to neoplasms than in Finland, especially in men aged 35--44. Only in Hungary did infectious diseases account for about 4.5% of all natural deaths; in the other countries they accounted for only about 1--2%. In the United States, Sweden, Czechoslovakia and Canada a clearly higher relative number of deaths (about 9--13%) were due to diseases of the digestive system than in the other countries (about 3--9%), whereas the relative numbers of deaths from respiratory and genitourinary diseases were uniform among all selected countries. Only in Denmark and Norway was a prominent proportion of the deceased (3.5--9.5%) certified as having died due to some symptom or ill-defined condition. About 90% of all middle-aged men died in each country from various diseases of the above six main ICD categories. As a whole, the above single deviations from the general trend were so small that the present results do not support the view that the differences in certifying and coding practices could explain the significant differences found in cardiovascular mortality of middle-aged men between various countries.", "contents": "An international comparison of mortality in middle-aged men from cardiovascular diseases during 1970--1974. An international comparison of mortality rates in middle-aged men (35--54 years) from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) during the period 1970--1974 was made. The material for this study was obtained from the statistics of the WHO (World Health Statist. Ann. 1970--1974, Vol. I, Vital Statistics of Causes of Death. WHO, Geneva, 1973--1976). The mean death rate of middle-aged men from all CVD and ischaemic heart diseases was clearly higher in Finland than in any other country in the world during the 5-year period. The mortality rates according to all ICD (International Classification of Diseases) main groups of diseases were determined for a selected group of countries containing all the Scandinavian countries, the United States, Canada, Hungary, Australia, Scotland, and Czechoslovakia. The death rates of all natural (ICSI-XVI) and unnatural causes (ICDXVII) were higher in Finland than in the other selected countries. Also the proportion of cardiovascular deaths as a percentage of all natural deaths was clearly higher in Finland than in any of the above countries, whereas in these countries proportionally more deaths were due to neoplasms than in Finland, especially in men aged 35--44. Only in Hungary did infectious diseases account for about 4.5% of all natural deaths; in the other countries they accounted for only about 1--2%. In the United States, Sweden, Czechoslovakia and Canada a clearly higher relative number of deaths (about 9--13%) were due to diseases of the digestive system than in the other countries (about 3--9%), whereas the relative numbers of deaths from respiratory and genitourinary diseases were uniform among all selected countries. Only in Denmark and Norway was a prominent proportion of the deceased (3.5--9.5%) certified as having died due to some symptom or ill-defined condition. About 90% of all middle-aged men died in each country from various diseases of the above six main ICD categories. As a whole, the above single deviations from the general trend were so small that the present results do not support the view that the differences in certifying and coding practices could explain the significant differences found in cardiovascular mortality of middle-aged men between various countries.", "PMID": 456963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12419", "title": "The epidemiology of autopsies in cardiovascular deaths of middle-aged men in Finland in 1973.", "content": "There were 414 certified deaths from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in men aged 35--44, and 1372 at ages 45--54, in Finland during 1973. A detailed analysis of the examination of the cause of death in these cases was made by paying specific attention to the autopsy epidemiology. In men aged 35--44 years 68.6% of all cardiovascular deaths and 55.2% at ages 45--54 was verified by autopsy. The autopsy rate of cardiovascular deaths in these two populations of deceased males (1) was in 1973 about three times higher than it had been 10 years earlier, (2) decreased significantly with the age of the deceased population, (3) was higher in urban than in rural areas, (4) was markedly higher in Helsinki than anywhere else in Finland (at ages 35--44 the rate in Helsinki was 94.9% and at 45--54 76.2% in 1973), (5) was dependent on the actual place of death, (6) was higher than the mean rate recorded for all natural deaths in these two groups of male deceased, (7) was higher in the category of cerebrovascular deaths and lower in deaths from ischaemic heart diseases than the mean rate recorded for all cardiovascular deaths, and (8) was composed mainly of medicolegal autopsies, when the cause of death was some ischaemic or functional heart disease; mostly a clinical autopsy was made when the death was due to some other category of CVD. In addition, 76% of the deceased 35--54-year-old males who died from CVD were either autopsied and/or treated in a hospital before death. This result and the quite high national autopsy rates among the deceased young and middle-aged populations give support to the reliability of the national mortality statistics at these ages.", "contents": "The epidemiology of autopsies in cardiovascular deaths of middle-aged men in Finland in 1973. There were 414 certified deaths from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in men aged 35--44, and 1372 at ages 45--54, in Finland during 1973. A detailed analysis of the examination of the cause of death in these cases was made by paying specific attention to the autopsy epidemiology. In men aged 35--44 years 68.6% of all cardiovascular deaths and 55.2% at ages 45--54 was verified by autopsy. The autopsy rate of cardiovascular deaths in these two populations of deceased males (1) was in 1973 about three times higher than it had been 10 years earlier, (2) decreased significantly with the age of the deceased population, (3) was higher in urban than in rural areas, (4) was markedly higher in Helsinki than anywhere else in Finland (at ages 35--44 the rate in Helsinki was 94.9% and at 45--54 76.2% in 1973), (5) was dependent on the actual place of death, (6) was higher than the mean rate recorded for all natural deaths in these two groups of male deceased, (7) was higher in the category of cerebrovascular deaths and lower in deaths from ischaemic heart diseases than the mean rate recorded for all cardiovascular deaths, and (8) was composed mainly of medicolegal autopsies, when the cause of death was some ischaemic or functional heart disease; mostly a clinical autopsy was made when the death was due to some other category of CVD. In addition, 76% of the deceased 35--54-year-old males who died from CVD were either autopsied and/or treated in a hospital before death. This result and the quite high national autopsy rates among the deceased young and middle-aged populations give support to the reliability of the national mortality statistics at these ages.", "PMID": 456964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12420", "title": "[Immunology and gastroenterology].", "content": "Immunology and gastroenterology are associated due to the part of the gastrointestinal tract with respect to the maturation of the immune system and because of the abundance of immunocytes within the mucosa. Therefore on the one hand a deformity is followed by immune deficiency, on the other hand contact between antigens and the immune system may cause different types of hypersensitivity. Autoimmunopathy, however, develops without known exogenous factors. It may be a primary disease of the gut but also a partial manifestation of a generalized reaction. Finally, each malignant immunoproliferative disease may strike the gut. So the diversity of interaction between the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system causes a variety of immunological disease.", "contents": "[Immunology and gastroenterology]. Immunology and gastroenterology are associated due to the part of the gastrointestinal tract with respect to the maturation of the immune system and because of the abundance of immunocytes within the mucosa. Therefore on the one hand a deformity is followed by immune deficiency, on the other hand contact between antigens and the immune system may cause different types of hypersensitivity. Autoimmunopathy, however, develops without known exogenous factors. It may be a primary disease of the gut but also a partial manifestation of a generalized reaction. Finally, each malignant immunoproliferative disease may strike the gut. So the diversity of interaction between the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system causes a variety of immunological disease.", "PMID": 456968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12421", "title": "[Clinical significance of bile acids].", "content": "During the last years bile acids have gained more and more clinical importance. They play a decisive part in intestinal fat resorption. Increased bile acid content in the colon will result in diarrhea. By determination of serum bile acids the liver function can be judged exactly. It seems probable that bile acids take part in the pathogenesis of gastritis gastric ulcer and colonic cancer. By administration of chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid dissolution of cholesterol stones within the gall bladder is possible.", "contents": "[Clinical significance of bile acids]. During the last years bile acids have gained more and more clinical importance. They play a decisive part in intestinal fat resorption. Increased bile acid content in the colon will result in diarrhea. By determination of serum bile acids the liver function can be judged exactly. It seems probable that bile acids take part in the pathogenesis of gastritis gastric ulcer and colonic cancer. By administration of chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid dissolution of cholesterol stones within the gall bladder is possible.", "PMID": 456969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12422", "title": "Definitions of ischaemia, infarction and necrosis.", "content": "Definitions of the terms ischaemia, infarction and necrosis are presented and their significance in connection with sudden cardiac death is discussed. Morphological features of acute myocardial fibre degeneration are reviewed and the significance of such findings are considered.", "contents": "Definitions of ischaemia, infarction and necrosis. Definitions of the terms ischaemia, infarction and necrosis are presented and their significance in connection with sudden cardiac death is discussed. Morphological features of acute myocardial fibre degeneration are reviewed and the significance of such findings are considered.", "PMID": 456965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12423", "title": "[Antilipemic agents available after the ban on clofibrate: clinical-pharmacological view].", "content": "Among the various available hypolipidemic agents only clofibrate-related substances, d-thyroxine and nicotinic acid are capable of lowering serum lipid values together with a relative or absolute rise of HDL. By that means one atherogenic risk factor is eliminated and compensated by an anti-risk factor. There are differences concerning the incidence and the seriousness of side-effects between the recommended hypolipidemic agents. Considering actual conditions attempts to find further factors that are associated with HDL level are the natural next step in efforts to develop effective lipid lowering drugs that decrease atherogenic lipoproteins, particularly LDL, and increase vasoprotective HDL.", "contents": "[Antilipemic agents available after the ban on clofibrate: clinical-pharmacological view]. Among the various available hypolipidemic agents only clofibrate-related substances, d-thyroxine and nicotinic acid are capable of lowering serum lipid values together with a relative or absolute rise of HDL. By that means one atherogenic risk factor is eliminated and compensated by an anti-risk factor. There are differences concerning the incidence and the seriousness of side-effects between the recommended hypolipidemic agents. Considering actual conditions attempts to find further factors that are associated with HDL level are the natural next step in efforts to develop effective lipid lowering drugs that decrease atherogenic lipoproteins, particularly LDL, and increase vasoprotective HDL.", "PMID": 456970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12424", "title": "Drug-induced myocarditis: a report of two cases.", "content": "Two patients are reported with hypersensitivity myocarditis. One, a 71-year-old female, was being treated with methyldopa at the time of her death and the second, a 67-year-old female, was receiving tetracycline for a respiratory tract infection.", "contents": "Drug-induced myocarditis: a report of two cases. Two patients are reported with hypersensitivity myocarditis. One, a 71-year-old female, was being treated with methyldopa at the time of her death and the second, a 67-year-old female, was receiving tetracycline for a respiratory tract infection.", "PMID": 456966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12425", "title": "[The cancer patient, an interdisciplinary problem: aspects of pediatric oncology].", "content": "The number of childhood malignancies in West Germany amounts to 1500 per year. The relative success of the treatment requires a therapy concept with curative intention. Diagnosis and treatment during the intensive phase should be centralized in special pediatric oncology departments to guarantee the best possible results. It is emphasized that the patients must be treated after the intensive phase on an outpatient basis. Unavoidable side effects of the treatment demand a \"life long\" follow-up of the patients in pediatric tumor centers.", "contents": "[The cancer patient, an interdisciplinary problem: aspects of pediatric oncology]. The number of childhood malignancies in West Germany amounts to 1500 per year. The relative success of the treatment requires a therapy concept with curative intention. Diagnosis and treatment during the intensive phase should be centralized in special pediatric oncology departments to guarantee the best possible results. It is emphasized that the patients must be treated after the intensive phase on an outpatient basis. Unavoidable side effects of the treatment demand a \"life long\" follow-up of the patients in pediatric tumor centers.", "PMID": 456973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12426", "title": "[Somatic disorders in cardiac phobia].", "content": "The paper is concerned with the implication of vertebral complaints in connection with cardiac neurosis and the reinforcement mechanism which maintains the symptom pattern. 31 psychiatric patients with cardiac symptoms and 10 patients with solely vertebral symptoms were examined neuro-orthopedically as well as by clinical and psychological tests. The results indicated that patients with distinct organic signs as muscle hypertension, blocked vertebrae and tenderness on pressure appear to be more anxious, tensed and irritated in the paper pencil tests. This leads to the hypothesis that the organic patients are more sensitive to external and internal stimuli, which causes a higher inclination for muscle tension and therefore vertebral alteration. These alterations again are responsible for internal stimuli like pain and discomfort in the cardiac region. So a cycle is established which can be interrupted by different therapeutic steps, especially cognitive behavioral approach.", "contents": "[Somatic disorders in cardiac phobia]. The paper is concerned with the implication of vertebral complaints in connection with cardiac neurosis and the reinforcement mechanism which maintains the symptom pattern. 31 psychiatric patients with cardiac symptoms and 10 patients with solely vertebral symptoms were examined neuro-orthopedically as well as by clinical and psychological tests. The results indicated that patients with distinct organic signs as muscle hypertension, blocked vertebrae and tenderness on pressure appear to be more anxious, tensed and irritated in the paper pencil tests. This leads to the hypothesis that the organic patients are more sensitive to external and internal stimuli, which causes a higher inclination for muscle tension and therefore vertebral alteration. These alterations again are responsible for internal stimuli like pain and discomfort in the cardiac region. So a cycle is established which can be interrupted by different therapeutic steps, especially cognitive behavioral approach.", "PMID": 456974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12427", "title": "[Secondary hyperaldosteronism in patients with liver cirrhosis, frequently caused by therapy].", "content": "Plasma angiotensin II and plasma aldosterone was measured by radioimmunoassay in 78 patients with cirrhosis of the liver (group I: untreated, without ascites, n = 21; group II:untreated, with ascites, n = 25; group III: with ascites, during saluretic therapy, n = 32). From the obtained results it was concluded: (1) Excluding any pretreatment on the outpatient basis in most cirrhotics with or without ascites unaltered plasma levels of angiotensin II and aldosterone were found. (2) In contrast to previous suggestion secondary aldosteronism seems to be a minor determinant of hepatic ascites formation. (3) In untreated patients the 24-h-urinary excretion of electrolytes (Na+/K+ less than 1) represents an insufficient index of hyperaldosteronism. Obviously the kidney retains considerable amounts of sodium independent of circulating aldosterone levels. (4) Far above other mechanism hyperaldosteronism is most often induced by saluretic treatment of ascites and edema. The increased aldosterone secretion might indicate an adaptation phenomenon to restore total body sodium content. Certainly, the established concept of ascites therapy remains unimpaired by this physiological reaction.", "contents": "[Secondary hyperaldosteronism in patients with liver cirrhosis, frequently caused by therapy]. Plasma angiotensin II and plasma aldosterone was measured by radioimmunoassay in 78 patients with cirrhosis of the liver (group I: untreated, without ascites, n = 21; group II:untreated, with ascites, n = 25; group III: with ascites, during saluretic therapy, n = 32). From the obtained results it was concluded: (1) Excluding any pretreatment on the outpatient basis in most cirrhotics with or without ascites unaltered plasma levels of angiotensin II and aldosterone were found. (2) In contrast to previous suggestion secondary aldosteronism seems to be a minor determinant of hepatic ascites formation. (3) In untreated patients the 24-h-urinary excretion of electrolytes (Na+/K+ less than 1) represents an insufficient index of hyperaldosteronism. Obviously the kidney retains considerable amounts of sodium independent of circulating aldosterone levels. (4) Far above other mechanism hyperaldosteronism is most often induced by saluretic treatment of ascites and edema. The increased aldosterone secretion might indicate an adaptation phenomenon to restore total body sodium content. Certainly, the established concept of ascites therapy remains unimpaired by this physiological reaction.", "PMID": 456975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12428", "title": "[Uremic pancreopathy. Clinical and experimental studies of its pathogenesis].", "content": "Uremia results in complex metabolic disturbances of exocrine pancreatic function which increase with the severity of renal insufficiency. This uremic pancreopathy is not identical with the pancreatitis of classical type. Its important clinical indicator is an elevation of serum lipase activity (more than 60% in nondialyzed renal insufficiency; hyperlipasemia was also detectable in chronic hemodialyzed patients (45%). The pathogenesis is heterogenous, its concept based on clinical and experimental studies involves several components: hormonal alterations (calcitonin etc.), catabolic protein metabolism in uremia, systemic disturbances (hemodynamics, hypoxia, acidosis etc.), direct impairment of the pancreatic cells induced by uremic toxins.", "contents": "[Uremic pancreopathy. Clinical and experimental studies of its pathogenesis]. Uremia results in complex metabolic disturbances of exocrine pancreatic function which increase with the severity of renal insufficiency. This uremic pancreopathy is not identical with the pancreatitis of classical type. Its important clinical indicator is an elevation of serum lipase activity (more than 60% in nondialyzed renal insufficiency; hyperlipasemia was also detectable in chronic hemodialyzed patients (45%). The pathogenesis is heterogenous, its concept based on clinical and experimental studies involves several components: hormonal alterations (calcitonin etc.), catabolic protein metabolism in uremia, systemic disturbances (hemodynamics, hypoxia, acidosis etc.), direct impairment of the pancreatic cells induced by uremic toxins.", "PMID": 456976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12429", "title": "[Hyperthyroidism in the elderly].", "content": "In patients older than 60 years it is more difficult to establish the diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis because 1. the classical symptoms are either less pronounced or totally absent, 2. complaints of symptoms of the digestive system are more striking and suspicious of a carcinoma (diminished appetite, weight loss, constipation), 3. symptoms like hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia are often to be found in elderly people and therefore not of great diagnostic significance, 4. in a high percentage of cases a selective T3-thyrotoxicosis is to be found.", "contents": "[Hyperthyroidism in the elderly]. In patients older than 60 years it is more difficult to establish the diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis because 1. the classical symptoms are either less pronounced or totally absent, 2. complaints of symptoms of the digestive system are more striking and suspicious of a carcinoma (diminished appetite, weight loss, constipation), 3. symptoms like hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia are often to be found in elderly people and therefore not of great diagnostic significance, 4. in a high percentage of cases a selective T3-thyrotoxicosis is to be found.", "PMID": 456978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12430", "title": "[Gallstones - cause of mechanical ileus].", "content": "Between 1964 and 1978 8748 operations had been performed because of benign diseases of the extrahepatic biliary tract, 413 cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction had been operated, out of these 30 patients with gallstone ileus. The frequency, pathogenesis, symptomatology, diagnostic procedure and therapy are described, the own results are discussed.", "contents": "[Gallstones - cause of mechanical ileus]. Between 1964 and 1978 8748 operations had been performed because of benign diseases of the extrahepatic biliary tract, 413 cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction had been operated, out of these 30 patients with gallstone ileus. The frequency, pathogenesis, symptomatology, diagnostic procedure and therapy are described, the own results are discussed.", "PMID": 456980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12431", "title": "[Mechanical ileus. Therapeutic results in 455 patients].", "content": "After presentation of the causes, pathophysiology, diagnostic procedures and therapy, the results of treatment of 455 patients with mechanical ileus operated in the period 1964--1978 are presented.", "contents": "[Mechanical ileus. Therapeutic results in 455 patients]. After presentation of the causes, pathophysiology, diagnostic procedures and therapy, the results of treatment of 455 patients with mechanical ileus operated in the period 1964--1978 are presented.", "PMID": 456981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12432", "title": "[Postoperative abdominal hernia and its treatment. Results in 438 patients].", "content": "The postoperative incisional hernia can be found after any incision, any suture, and also when the technique was as subtle as possible. The frequency ranges from 1--5%. The causes, the frequency, the suture-techniques, and the methods for reparation of an incisional hernia are described. In our clinic in 18 years (1.5. 1960--30.4. 1978) 438 patients were operated with an incisional hernia. The localizations, preoperative diseases, and the methods of operations applied are described and discussed. We were able to get postoperative information of 277 patients, information by letters and own investigations as well. The results are discussed. As far as we know our figures represent the greatest number of cases published. The own late results of operated hernias are described. In other publications a frequency of 15--20% of recurrencies is quoted. In respect to this our own results with \"edge-to-edge-technique\" and \"doubling of the fascia\" are satisfacotry.", "contents": "[Postoperative abdominal hernia and its treatment. Results in 438 patients]. The postoperative incisional hernia can be found after any incision, any suture, and also when the technique was as subtle as possible. The frequency ranges from 1--5%. The causes, the frequency, the suture-techniques, and the methods for reparation of an incisional hernia are described. In our clinic in 18 years (1.5. 1960--30.4. 1978) 438 patients were operated with an incisional hernia. The localizations, preoperative diseases, and the methods of operations applied are described and discussed. We were able to get postoperative information of 277 patients, information by letters and own investigations as well. The results are discussed. As far as we know our figures represent the greatest number of cases published. The own late results of operated hernias are described. In other publications a frequency of 15--20% of recurrencies is quoted. In respect to this our own results with \"edge-to-edge-technique\" and \"doubling of the fascia\" are satisfacotry.", "PMID": 456982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12433", "title": "[Clinical transcutaneous measurement of oxygen pressure during the induction of anesthesia with barbiturates].", "content": "Intravenous injection of barbiturates is followed by a depression of the respiratory centre depending on the dose. Blood carbon dioxide increases. This can be measured continuously in the expired air. In the same time blood oxygen modifies. The hypoxia produced by this depressant action was determined by a non-invasive transcutaneous blood gas measurement technique during the induction of anesthesia.", "contents": "[Clinical transcutaneous measurement of oxygen pressure during the induction of anesthesia with barbiturates]. Intravenous injection of barbiturates is followed by a depression of the respiratory centre depending on the dose. Blood carbon dioxide increases. This can be measured continuously in the expired air. In the same time blood oxygen modifies. The hypoxia produced by this depressant action was determined by a non-invasive transcutaneous blood gas measurement technique during the induction of anesthesia.", "PMID": 456983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12434", "title": "[The possibility of isolated joint transplantation with microsurgery of the blood vessels].", "content": "The transplantation of isolated joints with intact blood supply and good biomechanic conditions is possible. Biomechanical and neurotropic disturbances lead eventually to progressive degenerative alterations. The regularly seen periarticular adhesions with reduced joint mobility may also reduce the clinical application. Considering our very good results of joint-replantation also good clinical results of the transplantation with vascular and neural anastomoses may be expected. Microsurgery has a proven place for bridging great bone defects with vascular bone fragments. Histological examinations show a prompt and regular bone metabolism in the transplanted bone.", "contents": "[The possibility of isolated joint transplantation with microsurgery of the blood vessels]. The transplantation of isolated joints with intact blood supply and good biomechanic conditions is possible. Biomechanical and neurotropic disturbances lead eventually to progressive degenerative alterations. The regularly seen periarticular adhesions with reduced joint mobility may also reduce the clinical application. Considering our very good results of joint-replantation also good clinical results of the transplantation with vascular and neural anastomoses may be expected. Microsurgery has a proven place for bridging great bone defects with vascular bone fragments. Histological examinations show a prompt and regular bone metabolism in the transplanted bone.", "PMID": 456984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12435", "title": "[A new method for the preparation of special alloplastic implants for partial replacement of the pelvis].", "content": "Partial replacement of the pelvis by special prosthesis after resection for malignant lesions becomes more and more a rewarding alternative to the mutilating amputive procedures. A new method is recommended facilitating the forming of suitable prostheses. With computerized axial tomography it is possible to construct an actual sized three-dimensional model of the patients pelvis. This model is a very useful aid in preparing the special prosthesis as it corresponds exactly with the anatomic shape of the resected part.", "contents": "[A new method for the preparation of special alloplastic implants for partial replacement of the pelvis]. Partial replacement of the pelvis by special prosthesis after resection for malignant lesions becomes more and more a rewarding alternative to the mutilating amputive procedures. A new method is recommended facilitating the forming of suitable prostheses. With computerized axial tomography it is possible to construct an actual sized three-dimensional model of the patients pelvis. This model is a very useful aid in preparing the special prosthesis as it corresponds exactly with the anatomic shape of the resected part.", "PMID": 456985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12436", "title": "[Therapy of breast cancer. Results and prognosis after treatment with different surgical methods].", "content": "Breast carcinoma is the most frequent form of cancer in women. In Switzerland 1265 women died of it in 1975, the mortality rate is rising slowly, the cause of this being unclear. There is no uniformity about the best treatment of breast cancer. We analyzed 454 carcinomas, operated in the years 1961--1971 according to Halsted, Patey and McWhirter. We found similar 5- and 10-year survival rates with the Halsted and the Patey method of operation, however, decidedly worse results with the simple mastectomy. Today we recommend the modified radical excision of the breast after Patey at all stages; in addition we treat all patients with postoperative X-ray therapy or prescribe an adjuvant cytostatic therapy based on the experimental study of the SAKK (Swis Therapy Group for Clincal Cancer Research).", "contents": "[Therapy of breast cancer. Results and prognosis after treatment with different surgical methods]. Breast carcinoma is the most frequent form of cancer in women. In Switzerland 1265 women died of it in 1975, the mortality rate is rising slowly, the cause of this being unclear. There is no uniformity about the best treatment of breast cancer. We analyzed 454 carcinomas, operated in the years 1961--1971 according to Halsted, Patey and McWhirter. We found similar 5- and 10-year survival rates with the Halsted and the Patey method of operation, however, decidedly worse results with the simple mastectomy. Today we recommend the modified radical excision of the breast after Patey at all stages; in addition we treat all patients with postoperative X-ray therapy or prescribe an adjuvant cytostatic therapy based on the experimental study of the SAKK (Swis Therapy Group for Clincal Cancer Research).", "PMID": 456987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12437", "title": "[Results of treatment with DoloVisano for non-specific pain syndrome related to body movement. Concluding report on a field study of 3326 patients by 314 orthopedists].", "content": "The effectiveness of ColoVisano with view to the nonspecific pain syndrom of the locomotor system, particularly of the back, was proven on 3,326 ambulant patients. Three weeks after starting of treatment the majority of the patients was found free of pain. Considering the duration of the disease, the result of treatment with DoloVisano is remarkable: 66% = very good--good, 17% = moderate, only 12% = without success. Only in 15% of the cases side effects were found, which never led to an interrupture of the treatment. When listing the side effects, gastric pain with 6% and trousiness with 50% are ranging among the first places. The field study, performed by 314 orthopedic doctors in practice shows the high effectiveness of DoloVisano not only in patients with non-specific pain syndrom resulting from the spine but also with rheumatic syndrom, especially fibrositis and degenerative diseases.", "contents": "[Results of treatment with DoloVisano for non-specific pain syndrome related to body movement. Concluding report on a field study of 3326 patients by 314 orthopedists]. The effectiveness of ColoVisano with view to the nonspecific pain syndrom of the locomotor system, particularly of the back, was proven on 3,326 ambulant patients. Three weeks after starting of treatment the majority of the patients was found free of pain. Considering the duration of the disease, the result of treatment with DoloVisano is remarkable: 66% = very good--good, 17% = moderate, only 12% = without success. Only in 15% of the cases side effects were found, which never led to an interrupture of the treatment. When listing the side effects, gastric pain with 6% and trousiness with 50% are ranging among the first places. The field study, performed by 314 orthopedic doctors in practice shows the high effectiveness of DoloVisano not only in patients with non-specific pain syndrom resulting from the spine but also with rheumatic syndrom, especially fibrositis and degenerative diseases.", "PMID": 456989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12438", "title": "[Vaccinations during hyposensitization of allergic patients].", "content": "The well known or presumed immunbiologic mechanisms of atopic-anaphylactic reaction, hyposensitation and active immunization are discussed. With regard to this discussion, recommendations are given concerning the vaccination of allergic patients during hyposensitation.", "contents": "[Vaccinations during hyposensitization of allergic patients]. The well known or presumed immunbiologic mechanisms of atopic-anaphylactic reaction, hyposensitation and active immunization are discussed. With regard to this discussion, recommendations are given concerning the vaccination of allergic patients during hyposensitation.", "PMID": 456991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12439", "title": "[Therapy of acute schizophrenic attacks. High dosage haloperidol therapy compared with a two component treatment].", "content": "In a controlled open study 18 patients were treated with high doses of haloperidol (Haldol-Janssen) from 50 to 100 mg daily and 15 patients with a combined therapy of 10 mg haloperidol and 150 to 300 mg levomepromazin (Neurocil). The high-dosed sample a significantly rapid decrease of the productive symptoms and improvement of the general condition were found. The medians of the rating scales and self-rating scales showed similar courses. Within the high-dosage group especially after the beginning of therapy, there was an unexpected significant increase in extrapyramidal signs (dyskinesias), which did not appear any more after starting with an initial dose of at least 50 mg Haldol-Janssen. Other side effects could not be found, the tolerance was good.", "contents": "[Therapy of acute schizophrenic attacks. High dosage haloperidol therapy compared with a two component treatment]. In a controlled open study 18 patients were treated with high doses of haloperidol (Haldol-Janssen) from 50 to 100 mg daily and 15 patients with a combined therapy of 10 mg haloperidol and 150 to 300 mg levomepromazin (Neurocil). The high-dosed sample a significantly rapid decrease of the productive symptoms and improvement of the general condition were found. The medians of the rating scales and self-rating scales showed similar courses. Within the high-dosage group especially after the beginning of therapy, there was an unexpected significant increase in extrapyramidal signs (dyskinesias), which did not appear any more after starting with an initial dose of at least 50 mg Haldol-Janssen. Other side effects could not be found, the tolerance was good.", "PMID": 456997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12440", "title": "[Xerophthalmia].", "content": "Xerophthalmia results from an insufficient supply of vitamin A to the eye. Primary signs of xerophthalmia are conjunctival xerosis, Bit\u00f4t's spots with conjunctival xerosis, corneal xerosis, corneal ulceration with xerosis, keratomalacia. Secondary signs of xerophthalmia are night blindness, xerophthalmia fundus and corneal scars. According to the WHO 20 000--100 000 children in developing countries are struck annually with blindness due to xerophthalmia. With regard to the treatment immediate therapy with 100 000 I.U. vitamin A intramuscularly and 200 000 I.U. orally on the following day are advised in all cases of active disease. The doses should be reduced by half for children less than one year old. Prior to discharge from the clinic and additional dose of 200 000 I.U. vitamin A (children under the age of one year 100 000 I.U.) orally should be administered.", "contents": "[Xerophthalmia]. Xerophthalmia results from an insufficient supply of vitamin A to the eye. Primary signs of xerophthalmia are conjunctival xerosis, Bit\u00f4t's spots with conjunctival xerosis, corneal xerosis, corneal ulceration with xerosis, keratomalacia. Secondary signs of xerophthalmia are night blindness, xerophthalmia fundus and corneal scars. According to the WHO 20 000--100 000 children in developing countries are struck annually with blindness due to xerophthalmia. With regard to the treatment immediate therapy with 100 000 I.U. vitamin A intramuscularly and 200 000 I.U. orally on the following day are advised in all cases of active disease. The doses should be reduced by half for children less than one year old. Prior to discharge from the clinic and additional dose of 200 000 I.U. vitamin A (children under the age of one year 100 000 I.U.) orally should be administered.", "PMID": 457000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12441", "title": "[Idiopathic polyneuritis. Course, prognosis and electrodiagnostic findings].", "content": "In acute idiopathic polyneuritis, the slowing of nerve conduction velocity does not allow prognostical statements. However, a marked reduction of muscle potential amplitude after stimulation and recording points implies a large number of damaged axons. This effect occurs earlier and is more reliable than pathological spontaneous activity in the EMG. Following complete or almost complete loss of indirect muscle excitability, improvement of function can be expected only after sprouting of nerve fibers--therefore after some months at best; permanent defects must bei anticipated especially in distal muscle groups. We experienced this most commonly--but not exclusively--in cases with highly acute courses which led to tetraparalytic syndroms. Clinical courses with slowly progressive disease during months and recurrent courses of idiopathic polyneuritis can also lead to permanent paresis.", "contents": "[Idiopathic polyneuritis. Course, prognosis and electrodiagnostic findings]. In acute idiopathic polyneuritis, the slowing of nerve conduction velocity does not allow prognostical statements. However, a marked reduction of muscle potential amplitude after stimulation and recording points implies a large number of damaged axons. This effect occurs earlier and is more reliable than pathological spontaneous activity in the EMG. Following complete or almost complete loss of indirect muscle excitability, improvement of function can be expected only after sprouting of nerve fibers--therefore after some months at best; permanent defects must bei anticipated especially in distal muscle groups. We experienced this most commonly--but not exclusively--in cases with highly acute courses which led to tetraparalytic syndroms. Clinical courses with slowly progressive disease during months and recurrent courses of idiopathic polyneuritis can also lead to permanent paresis.", "PMID": 457002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12442", "title": "[The ellipsoid heart. Construction and animal experimental findings of a new kind of artificial heart].", "content": "In order to avoid thrombi generation within artificial ventricles the Ellipsoid heart is built with a one-piece membran in enddiastolic position. This allows to have an optimal washout of all inside surfaces during the cardiac cycles, in enddiastolic position the cross sectional veiw of the membran is circle-shaped. 82% of the filling volume can be used for the maximal stroke volume, which is 120 ml. The maximal cardiac output is 16 l/min. The Ellipsoid heart is evaluated as design for total heart replacement and assisted circulation. As total artificial heart the survival times were in calves experiments up to 40 days, in assisted circulation in parakorporeal position up to 83 days. The cardiac assistance with the Ellipsoid heart (E-LVAD) is performed due to implanted canula in the left ventricle via the left atrium and a connection to the ascending aorta. This technique was applied in 14 clinical cases with cardiac failure after open surgery. The E-LVAD could support the failing heart; it could be removed in 4 patients. The aim to avoid thrombiformation within artificial ventricles could be achieved with the Ellipsoid heart in calve experiments as well as clinically--the membrane was constantly clean and free of any thrombidepositions.", "contents": "[The ellipsoid heart. Construction and animal experimental findings of a new kind of artificial heart]. In order to avoid thrombi generation within artificial ventricles the Ellipsoid heart is built with a one-piece membran in enddiastolic position. This allows to have an optimal washout of all inside surfaces during the cardiac cycles, in enddiastolic position the cross sectional veiw of the membran is circle-shaped. 82% of the filling volume can be used for the maximal stroke volume, which is 120 ml. The maximal cardiac output is 16 l/min. The Ellipsoid heart is evaluated as design for total heart replacement and assisted circulation. As total artificial heart the survival times were in calves experiments up to 40 days, in assisted circulation in parakorporeal position up to 83 days. The cardiac assistance with the Ellipsoid heart (E-LVAD) is performed due to implanted canula in the left ventricle via the left atrium and a connection to the ascending aorta. This technique was applied in 14 clinical cases with cardiac failure after open surgery. The E-LVAD could support the failing heart; it could be removed in 4 patients. The aim to avoid thrombiformation within artificial ventricles could be achieved with the Ellipsoid heart in calve experiments as well as clinically--the membrane was constantly clean and free of any thrombidepositions.", "PMID": 457003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12443", "title": "[Results in the documentation for pregnancy surveillance].", "content": "Some results from the pregnancy surveillance booklet documentation are discussed in this paper. These results were gained on the basis of data from a representative random sample taken in Rheinland-Pfalz in 1977. Unfortunately, the risk factors section in the pregnancy surveillance booklet does not receive sufficient medical documentation. Apparently, its structure is too complex and its second part is not on the proper place. Contrary to the risk factor check list, which has been answered poorly, the entry of the observations on the course of the pregnancy obviously has carried out regularly. Only half of the pregnant women take advantage of at least 10 preventive medial examinations. Frequency of these examinations and date of the first medical examination in pregnancy depend on social conditions. In case of unfavourable general conditions pregnant women go less often, and later, to the prenatal examinations and the state of health of the new-born child depends on the \"social strata\" factor. Seen especially from the viewpoint of a greater centralization in obstetrics, the measures taken in prenatal care should be decentralized and varied and should include a revision of the pregnancy surveillance booklet.", "contents": "[Results in the documentation for pregnancy surveillance]. Some results from the pregnancy surveillance booklet documentation are discussed in this paper. These results were gained on the basis of data from a representative random sample taken in Rheinland-Pfalz in 1977. Unfortunately, the risk factors section in the pregnancy surveillance booklet does not receive sufficient medical documentation. Apparently, its structure is too complex and its second part is not on the proper place. Contrary to the risk factor check list, which has been answered poorly, the entry of the observations on the course of the pregnancy obviously has carried out regularly. Only half of the pregnant women take advantage of at least 10 preventive medial examinations. Frequency of these examinations and date of the first medical examination in pregnancy depend on social conditions. In case of unfavourable general conditions pregnant women go less often, and later, to the prenatal examinations and the state of health of the new-born child depends on the \"social strata\" factor. Seen especially from the viewpoint of a greater centralization in obstetrics, the measures taken in prenatal care should be decentralized and varied and should include a revision of the pregnancy surveillance booklet.", "PMID": 457004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12444", "title": "[Coronary vessel abnormalities of aortal origin].", "content": "Anomalies of aortal origin of the coronary vascular system are found in approximately one percent of the population and can be exactly documented by coronary angiography. Although such variants of origin and in the coronary vascular course are not associated with an increased incidence in coronary sclerosis, it is important that they be known for several reasons: 1. in order to avoid false interpretations of the coronarogram that can be of grave consequence, 2. for the selection of the correct incision at heart surgery, 3. a very rare anomaly, the origin of the trunk of the left coronary artery in the right Valsalva's sinus, is clearly related to sudden cardiac death in children and youths. A correct diagnosis can be life-saving.", "contents": "[Coronary vessel abnormalities of aortal origin]. Anomalies of aortal origin of the coronary vascular system are found in approximately one percent of the population and can be exactly documented by coronary angiography. Although such variants of origin and in the coronary vascular course are not associated with an increased incidence in coronary sclerosis, it is important that they be known for several reasons: 1. in order to avoid false interpretations of the coronarogram that can be of grave consequence, 2. for the selection of the correct incision at heart surgery, 3. a very rare anomaly, the origin of the trunk of the left coronary artery in the right Valsalva's sinus, is clearly related to sudden cardiac death in children and youths. A correct diagnosis can be life-saving.", "PMID": 457006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12445", "title": "[Extended elbow synovectomy in primary chronic polyarthritis. Long-term results].", "content": "In 50--70% of the rheumatoid patients arthritis of the elbow joint can be found. Early results after surgical treatment are very successful. The late results after 29 synovectomies, partly with resection of the head of the radius and neurolysis of the ulnar nerve, are presented. The follow-up time averages 6 years. We found a good relief of pain and a moderate, but persisting gain of movement. The importance of an early operation and a consequent physical therapy is pointed out.", "contents": "[Extended elbow synovectomy in primary chronic polyarthritis. Long-term results]. In 50--70% of the rheumatoid patients arthritis of the elbow joint can be found. Early results after surgical treatment are very successful. The late results after 29 synovectomies, partly with resection of the head of the radius and neurolysis of the ulnar nerve, are presented. The follow-up time averages 6 years. We found a good relief of pain and a moderate, but persisting gain of movement. The importance of an early operation and a consequent physical therapy is pointed out.", "PMID": 457010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12446", "title": "[Medical care on board ship. Cruise-medical experiences].", "content": "Cruise medicine has general, tropical and industrial medical aspects. Surgery is less important than in former days. Ship doctors treat crew and passengers. Already the physician's presence gives security to the often old, sometimes sick tourists coming to cruise. Seasickness can be treated successfully in an active way.", "contents": "[Medical care on board ship. Cruise-medical experiences]. Cruise medicine has general, tropical and industrial medical aspects. Surgery is less important than in former days. Ship doctors treat crew and passengers. Already the physician's presence gives security to the often old, sometimes sick tourists coming to cruise. Seasickness can be treated successfully in an active way.", "PMID": 457011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12447", "title": "[Effect of uric acid lowering drugs in low dosage in patients with hyperuricemia and hypertriglyceridemia in a randomized group study].", "content": "The serum uric acid lowering effects of 100 mg Allopurinol (A), 20 mg Benzbromarone (B) and the combination of both were tested in a randomized block-trial in 12 male patients suffering from hyperuricemia and hyperlipoproteinemia type IIb/IV. Therapy periods lasted 4 weeks each. Allopurinol lowered the uric acid concentrations from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 5,95 mg/100 ml, Benzbromarone from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 6,11 mg/100 ml and the combination from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 4,90 mg/100 ml, all three significantly. The difference between the effect of the combination drug and Allopurinol and Benzbromarone respectively was also significant. An additive effect of both components is evident. Serum creatinin concentration remained constant. Uric acid and creatinin excretion could not be evaluated because of failure of patient compliance in the collecting of urine.", "contents": "[Effect of uric acid lowering drugs in low dosage in patients with hyperuricemia and hypertriglyceridemia in a randomized group study]. The serum uric acid lowering effects of 100 mg Allopurinol (A), 20 mg Benzbromarone (B) and the combination of both were tested in a randomized block-trial in 12 male patients suffering from hyperuricemia and hyperlipoproteinemia type IIb/IV. Therapy periods lasted 4 weeks each. Allopurinol lowered the uric acid concentrations from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 5,95 mg/100 ml, Benzbromarone from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 6,11 mg/100 ml and the combination from 7,54 mg/100 ml to 4,90 mg/100 ml, all three significantly. The difference between the effect of the combination drug and Allopurinol and Benzbromarone respectively was also significant. An additive effect of both components is evident. Serum creatinin concentration remained constant. Uric acid and creatinin excretion could not be evaluated because of failure of patient compliance in the collecting of urine.", "PMID": 457017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12448", "title": "[Long-term therapy in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease].", "content": "The remission period of patients with ulcerative colitis was extended by long term treatment with 2-3 g sulphasalazine daily. Proctocolectomy should be performed if no remission can be obtained on continued medical therapy. Moreover, in these cases the operation is suggested to avoid the unwanted side effects of the drugs and the increased risk of cancer.", "contents": "[Long-term therapy in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease]. The remission period of patients with ulcerative colitis was extended by long term treatment with 2-3 g sulphasalazine daily. Proctocolectomy should be performed if no remission can be obtained on continued medical therapy. Moreover, in these cases the operation is suggested to avoid the unwanted side effects of the drugs and the increased risk of cancer.", "PMID": 457018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12449", "title": "[Irritable colon. Possibilities for an objective diagnosis and its value for the therapy].", "content": "Diagnosis of functional gastrointestinal disorders consists mainly in exclusion of organic diseases. A more positive diagnosis may be established by the identification of characteristic symptoms. Myography and manometry within the colon sigmoideum reveal significant patterns in irritable bowel patients, which also may allow control of therapy.", "contents": "[Irritable colon. Possibilities for an objective diagnosis and its value for the therapy]. Diagnosis of functional gastrointestinal disorders consists mainly in exclusion of organic diseases. A more positive diagnosis may be established by the identification of characteristic symptoms. Myography and manometry within the colon sigmoideum reveal significant patterns in irritable bowel patients, which also may allow control of therapy.", "PMID": 457019} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12450", "title": "[Fibroadenoma in an accessory breast. A case of polythelia and fibroadenoma in the left breast region and a perivulvar accessory breast].", "content": "The case of a 32-year-old female patient with multiple malformations (hare-lip, polythelia, fibroadenoma in an accessory mammary gland) and independent of these, another fibroadenoma in the breast is reported. The fibroadenoma developing in the accessory breast around the vulva, diagnosed by means of aspiration biopsy cytology, should be payed special attention. This case also confirms the applicability in preoperative diagnostics of aspiration biopsy cytology, a method which has proved to be effective for years.", "contents": "[Fibroadenoma in an accessory breast. A case of polythelia and fibroadenoma in the left breast region and a perivulvar accessory breast]. The case of a 32-year-old female patient with multiple malformations (hare-lip, polythelia, fibroadenoma in an accessory mammary gland) and independent of these, another fibroadenoma in the breast is reported. The fibroadenoma developing in the accessory breast around the vulva, diagnosed by means of aspiration biopsy cytology, should be payed special attention. This case also confirms the applicability in preoperative diagnostics of aspiration biopsy cytology, a method which has proved to be effective for years.", "PMID": 457021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12451", "title": "[Hyperthelia in young men].", "content": "Out of a group of 500 young men (aged 17 to 29) 23 persons had one or several supernumerary nipples. Different types with respect to the degree of their development are to be distinguished.", "contents": "[Hyperthelia in young men]. Out of a group of 500 young men (aged 17 to 29) 23 persons had one or several supernumerary nipples. Different types with respect to the degree of their development are to be distinguished.", "PMID": 457022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12452", "title": "[Value of the dilatation of the anal sphincter].", "content": "Anal sphincter dilatation with forefinger and middle fingers of both hands for a two-minute period under strong pressure results in a measurable tonus-decrease of the sphincter ani over a period of 2-3 weeks. This tonus-decrease is of therapeutic advantage in numerous diseases, particularly in those of the anal area. At the same time, the stretching may well be used to protect anastomoses in the colon or to dilate the operative access in transanal operations. Complications arising from the stretching described are insignificant.", "contents": "[Value of the dilatation of the anal sphincter]. Anal sphincter dilatation with forefinger and middle fingers of both hands for a two-minute period under strong pressure results in a measurable tonus-decrease of the sphincter ani over a period of 2-3 weeks. This tonus-decrease is of therapeutic advantage in numerous diseases, particularly in those of the anal area. At the same time, the stretching may well be used to protect anastomoses in the colon or to dilate the operative access in transanal operations. Complications arising from the stretching described are insignificant.", "PMID": 457023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12453", "title": "[The efficacy of Vita-Dor as a sleep inducing and hypnotic drug].", "content": "Vita-Dor is a drug inducing sleep and acting as an intermediate type of a hypnotic. Regarding the dosis the age of the patient has to be considered. As an average dose for adults 2 sugar coated tablets are recommended to be administered in the evening. Elderly patients should start with 1 tablet in the evening.", "contents": "[The efficacy of Vita-Dor as a sleep inducing and hypnotic drug]. Vita-Dor is a drug inducing sleep and acting as an intermediate type of a hypnotic. Regarding the dosis the age of the patient has to be considered. As an average dose for adults 2 sugar coated tablets are recommended to be administered in the evening. Elderly patients should start with 1 tablet in the evening.", "PMID": 457024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12454", "title": "Implantable pacemakers for management of tachyarrhythmias.", "content": "Attempts have been made to control tachyarrhythmias with implantable pacemakers since the late 1960's. The basic approaches considered were: a) maintenance of a basic rate following surgical division of the conducting system, b) pacing to prevent onset of tachyarrhythmias, and c) pacing to terminate episodes of tachyarrhythmias. The earliest approaches required conscious patient interaction in effecting therapy. Emergence of newer technologies has allowed development of flexible, automatic pacing systems which overcome some of the limitations of earlier approaches.", "contents": "Implantable pacemakers for management of tachyarrhythmias. Attempts have been made to control tachyarrhythmias with implantable pacemakers since the late 1960's. The basic approaches considered were: a) maintenance of a basic rate following surgical division of the conducting system, b) pacing to prevent onset of tachyarrhythmias, and c) pacing to terminate episodes of tachyarrhythmias. The earliest approaches required conscious patient interaction in effecting therapy. Emergence of newer technologies has allowed development of flexible, automatic pacing systems which overcome some of the limitations of earlier approaches.", "PMID": 457025} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12455", "title": "The surgical management of ventricular tachycardia.", "content": "A better understanding of the mechanisms of chronic ventricular arrhythmias has led to the development of new surgical techniques for their management with promising results. Simple ventriculotomy is particularly useful in idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (19 cases). Ventricular tachycardia complicating myocardial infarction may be a special indication for an encircling subendocardial ventriculotomy (12 cases).", "contents": "The surgical management of ventricular tachycardia. A better understanding of the mechanisms of chronic ventricular arrhythmias has led to the development of new surgical techniques for their management with promising results. Simple ventriculotomy is particularly useful in idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (19 cases). Ventricular tachycardia complicating myocardial infarction may be a special indication for an encircling subendocardial ventriculotomy (12 cases).", "PMID": 457026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12456", "title": "[Reconstruction of the right ventricular outflow tract in tetralogy of Fallot with a Hancock valve containing ventriculo-pulmonary conduit (author's transl)].", "content": "Between June 1975 and August 1978, 22 cases of anatomically and functionally severe tetralogy of Fallot were corrected with a valve bearing ventriculo-pulmonary Hancock conduit. The indication for use of the Hancock conduit was atresia of the pulmonary valve ring and main pulmonary artery (classified according to Sommerville and Jefferson as types I and II respectively) in 5 patients, severe hypoplasia of the pulmonary valve ring, the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) and the main pulmonary artery in 10, 1 patient with an abnormal right coronary artery and an acquired obstruction of the infundibulum subsequent to Waterston-Cooley anastomosis in 4 patients. Hancock conduits (KHP) were also employed in two patients with severe pulmonary insufficiency after patch insertion across the pulmonary valve ring. Early mortality was 9%. Very good hemodynamic results were achieved in 15 patients (with pRV/pLV ratios less than 0.4 in 8 and between 0.4 and 0.5 in 5 patients). Good results (as indicated by pRV/pLV ratios between 0.5 and 0.7) were found in 7 patients, while only in 2 patients a ratio greater than 0.7 indicated an insufficient hemodynamic result. The valve bearing ventriculo-pulmonary Hancock conduit is the surgical method of choice for various types of atresia of the RVOT. As opposed to transanular reconstruction of the RVOT which, dependent on the extent of hypoplasia, consistently leads to some degree of pulmonary insufficiency, the use of the Hancock conduit can prevent pulmonary regurgitation.", "contents": "[Reconstruction of the right ventricular outflow tract in tetralogy of Fallot with a Hancock valve containing ventriculo-pulmonary conduit (author's transl)]. Between June 1975 and August 1978, 22 cases of anatomically and functionally severe tetralogy of Fallot were corrected with a valve bearing ventriculo-pulmonary Hancock conduit. The indication for use of the Hancock conduit was atresia of the pulmonary valve ring and main pulmonary artery (classified according to Sommerville and Jefferson as types I and II respectively) in 5 patients, severe hypoplasia of the pulmonary valve ring, the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) and the main pulmonary artery in 10, 1 patient with an abnormal right coronary artery and an acquired obstruction of the infundibulum subsequent to Waterston-Cooley anastomosis in 4 patients. Hancock conduits (KHP) were also employed in two patients with severe pulmonary insufficiency after patch insertion across the pulmonary valve ring. Early mortality was 9%. Very good hemodynamic results were achieved in 15 patients (with pRV/pLV ratios less than 0.4 in 8 and between 0.4 and 0.5 in 5 patients). Good results (as indicated by pRV/pLV ratios between 0.5 and 0.7) were found in 7 patients, while only in 2 patients a ratio greater than 0.7 indicated an insufficient hemodynamic result. The valve bearing ventriculo-pulmonary Hancock conduit is the surgical method of choice for various types of atresia of the RVOT. As opposed to transanular reconstruction of the RVOT which, dependent on the extent of hypoplasia, consistently leads to some degree of pulmonary insufficiency, the use of the Hancock conduit can prevent pulmonary regurgitation.", "PMID": 457028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12457", "title": "Effect of glucagon and glomerulopressin on the renal function of the dog.", "content": "Glucagon was infused through the porta or through the left renal artery in dogs. Another group of dogs were infused with glomerulopressin through the left renal artery. It was observed that glucagon when infused through the portal vein enhanced the glomerulopressin production and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). When glucagon was infused intrarenally it did not alter GRF but it had a direct tubular action decreasing sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubule. Glomerulopressin infused intrarenally increased GRF and potassium excretion. The results suggest that the increase in GFR was due to increase in glomerulopressin activity. There are three reasons for this statement: a) GRF increased when glomerulopressin activity was high, but not when there was a low activity, 5) intrarenally infused glomerulopressin produced a very significant change in the GFR of the infused kidney, while the GRF of the contralateral kidney remained unchanged and c) intrarenally administered glucagon had no effect on GFR.", "contents": "Effect of glucagon and glomerulopressin on the renal function of the dog. Glucagon was infused through the porta or through the left renal artery in dogs. Another group of dogs were infused with glomerulopressin through the left renal artery. It was observed that glucagon when infused through the portal vein enhanced the glomerulopressin production and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). When glucagon was infused intrarenally it did not alter GRF but it had a direct tubular action decreasing sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubule. Glomerulopressin infused intrarenally increased GRF and potassium excretion. The results suggest that the increase in GFR was due to increase in glomerulopressin activity. There are three reasons for this statement: a) GRF increased when glomerulopressin activity was high, but not when there was a low activity, 5) intrarenally infused glomerulopressin produced a very significant change in the GFR of the infused kidney, while the GRF of the contralateral kidney remained unchanged and c) intrarenally administered glucagon had no effect on GFR.", "PMID": 457030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12458", "title": "Activation of pyruvate dehydrogenase by insulin in isolated brown fat cells.", "content": "Isolated fat cells from rat brown adipose tissue in vitro respond to insulin with an increase of pyruvate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.1) activity due to conversion of the inactive form of the enzyme (PDHb) to the active form (PDHa). Like in white adipocytes this effect depends on the presence of glucose or 2-deoxyglucose in the medium. The interrelationship between the steady state of the PDH-system and the phosphorylation state of the adenine nucleotides was studied in white adipose tissue. While insulin in the presence of 2-deoxyglucose caused a large fall of the tissue ATP/ADP ratio which could explain the increase of PDHa activity, the ATP/ADP ratio remained unchanged during incubations with insulin and glucose. Thus it appears that other factors than the ATP/ADP ratio are involved in the regulation of PDH activity by insulin the nature of which remains to be elucidated.", "contents": "Activation of pyruvate dehydrogenase by insulin in isolated brown fat cells. Isolated fat cells from rat brown adipose tissue in vitro respond to insulin with an increase of pyruvate dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.4.1) activity due to conversion of the inactive form of the enzyme (PDHb) to the active form (PDHa). Like in white adipocytes this effect depends on the presence of glucose or 2-deoxyglucose in the medium. The interrelationship between the steady state of the PDH-system and the phosphorylation state of the adenine nucleotides was studied in white adipose tissue. While insulin in the presence of 2-deoxyglucose caused a large fall of the tissue ATP/ADP ratio which could explain the increase of PDHa activity, the ATP/ADP ratio remained unchanged during incubations with insulin and glucose. Thus it appears that other factors than the ATP/ADP ratio are involved in the regulation of PDH activity by insulin the nature of which remains to be elucidated.", "PMID": 457031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12459", "title": "In vitro effect of branched chain amino acids on the ribosomal cycle in muscles of fasted rats.", "content": "1) The effect of a single i.p injection of branched chain amino acids on ribosomal profiles of psoas muscles was studied in rats after a 48--96 hour fast. Experimental and control animals received glucose and insulin 1--2 hours before killing. 2) The ratio of polysomes to subunits and monomers decreased progressively during the fast. 3) The administration of the three branched chain amino acids together or leucine alone significantly increased the proportion of polysomes. 4) This effect was not observed in rats fed ad libitum. 5) It is suggested that the branched chain amino acids and specifically leucine may be required for the full protein anabolic response of muscles to insulin during a prolonged fast.", "contents": "In vitro effect of branched chain amino acids on the ribosomal cycle in muscles of fasted rats. 1) The effect of a single i.p injection of branched chain amino acids on ribosomal profiles of psoas muscles was studied in rats after a 48--96 hour fast. Experimental and control animals received glucose and insulin 1--2 hours before killing. 2) The ratio of polysomes to subunits and monomers decreased progressively during the fast. 3) The administration of the three branched chain amino acids together or leucine alone significantly increased the proportion of polysomes. 4) This effect was not observed in rats fed ad libitum. 5) It is suggested that the branched chain amino acids and specifically leucine may be required for the full protein anabolic response of muscles to insulin during a prolonged fast.", "PMID": 457032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12460", "title": "Effect of nembutal on LH release in baboons.", "content": "Regularly cycling female baboons were selected and maintained under a diurnal light schedule from 0500 to 1900 hr (CST). Beginning three days prior to the expected LH peak, blood was collected daily at 0800 and 1600 hr for 6 days in 5 baboons under light sedation for radioimmunoassay of plasma LH and estrogen. The plasma level of LH increased linearly and reached a peak in the afternoon of the second day. The peak in plasma estrogen appeared prior to the LH peak. In order to examine the critical period of LH surge in baboons, nembutal was injected daily at 1300 hr beginning a few days prior to expected LH relase. Initial dose of nembutal was 35 mg/kg body weight, but a supplementary dose was later required for a full 5 hours of anesthesia. Blood was collected at 1600 hr from 4 baboons during nembutal injections and after cessation of nembutal injections for radioimmunoassay of plasma LH and estrogen. It was found that nembutal injections suppressed LH release in 2 baboons, and caused a delay of LH release in 2 baboons. However, the plasma level of estrogen declined immediately after initiation of nembutal injection and remained lower. The evidence illustrates the nature of the neural components of LH release which became effective in the afternoon during the ovulatory phase. In addition, a linear increase in plasma level of LH, which is due to accumulation of circulating LH, is necessary for induction of ovulation in baboons.", "contents": "Effect of nembutal on LH release in baboons. Regularly cycling female baboons were selected and maintained under a diurnal light schedule from 0500 to 1900 hr (CST). Beginning three days prior to the expected LH peak, blood was collected daily at 0800 and 1600 hr for 6 days in 5 baboons under light sedation for radioimmunoassay of plasma LH and estrogen. The plasma level of LH increased linearly and reached a peak in the afternoon of the second day. The peak in plasma estrogen appeared prior to the LH peak. In order to examine the critical period of LH surge in baboons, nembutal was injected daily at 1300 hr beginning a few days prior to expected LH relase. Initial dose of nembutal was 35 mg/kg body weight, but a supplementary dose was later required for a full 5 hours of anesthesia. Blood was collected at 1600 hr from 4 baboons during nembutal injections and after cessation of nembutal injections for radioimmunoassay of plasma LH and estrogen. It was found that nembutal injections suppressed LH release in 2 baboons, and caused a delay of LH release in 2 baboons. However, the plasma level of estrogen declined immediately after initiation of nembutal injection and remained lower. The evidence illustrates the nature of the neural components of LH release which became effective in the afternoon during the ovulatory phase. In addition, a linear increase in plasma level of LH, which is due to accumulation of circulating LH, is necessary for induction of ovulation in baboons.", "PMID": 457033} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12461", "title": "Similar serum concentrations of thyroid hormones in two geographically separate populations on disparate iodine intake.", "content": "Serum thyroid hormones were measured in Montreal, Canada (urinary iodine 446 +/- 164 micrograms/day) and Zagreb, Yugoslavia (urinary iodine 108 +/- 32 microgram/day). The serum concentrations of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in the two populations were almost identical. We conclude that dietary iodine, within accepted normal limits, is not a factor in determining serum thyroid hormone levels. The wide differences in reported serum triiodothyronine concentrations are related to methodological problems.", "contents": "Similar serum concentrations of thyroid hormones in two geographically separate populations on disparate iodine intake. Serum thyroid hormones were measured in Montreal, Canada (urinary iodine 446 +/- 164 micrograms/day) and Zagreb, Yugoslavia (urinary iodine 108 +/- 32 microgram/day). The serum concentrations of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in the two populations were almost identical. We conclude that dietary iodine, within accepted normal limits, is not a factor in determining serum thyroid hormone levels. The wide differences in reported serum triiodothyronine concentrations are related to methodological problems.", "PMID": 457034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12462", "title": "Effects of actinomycin D and estrogen priming on decidual growth in ovariectomized mice.", "content": "Ovariectomized mice were primed for 2 days with estradiol and/or actinomycin D. In order to evaluate the effects of these treatments on endometrial cell proliferation, colchicine and [3H]-thymidine were administered shortly before killing groups of animals at days 4 and 5 after priming (the latter groups received 500 micrograms progesterone plus 10 ng estradiol 24 h before killing). The same priming treatments were administered 3 days before starting hormonal treatment eliciting uterine sensitivity to decidualization (incuded by intrauterine oil injection). The comparison of labeling and mitotic indices and of decidual tissue weights between experimental groups showed that under such conditions: (1) actinomycin D only partly inhibits the effects of estrogen priming: the increase in cell division obtained on day 4 after priming remains unchanged in all three endometrial components while the increase in stromal mitotic activity at day 5 and further decidual growth are reduced, (2) since the inhibition rate of these parameters is greater in non-primed than in primed animals, it appears that estrogen priming counteracts the antagonistic action of actinomycin D.", "contents": "Effects of actinomycin D and estrogen priming on decidual growth in ovariectomized mice. Ovariectomized mice were primed for 2 days with estradiol and/or actinomycin D. In order to evaluate the effects of these treatments on endometrial cell proliferation, colchicine and [3H]-thymidine were administered shortly before killing groups of animals at days 4 and 5 after priming (the latter groups received 500 micrograms progesterone plus 10 ng estradiol 24 h before killing). The same priming treatments were administered 3 days before starting hormonal treatment eliciting uterine sensitivity to decidualization (incuded by intrauterine oil injection). The comparison of labeling and mitotic indices and of decidual tissue weights between experimental groups showed that under such conditions: (1) actinomycin D only partly inhibits the effects of estrogen priming: the increase in cell division obtained on day 4 after priming remains unchanged in all three endometrial components while the increase in stromal mitotic activity at day 5 and further decidual growth are reduced, (2) since the inhibition rate of these parameters is greater in non-primed than in primed animals, it appears that estrogen priming counteracts the antagonistic action of actinomycin D.", "PMID": 457036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12463", "title": "The biological activity of dimeric testosterone, a new long-acting androgen, and of testosterone enanthate in the castrated male rat.", "content": "The long-term effect of single intramuscular injections of various doses of dimeric testosterone and of testosterone enanthate into castrated male rats upon serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), pituitary LH, and on the weight of the seminal vesicles, the ventral prostate and the levator ani muscle, was investigated. The effect of the enanthate was characterized by a rapid onset and a protracted androgenic action and a suppression of serum LH, while the dimeric testosterone brought about only a moderate but very even depot effect. The injection of 5 mg of the dimeric testosterone caused a positive feedback effectu upon LH release for 16 weeks. The results indicate that the dimeric testosterone may exert is hormonal effects as intact ester.", "contents": "The biological activity of dimeric testosterone, a new long-acting androgen, and of testosterone enanthate in the castrated male rat. The long-term effect of single intramuscular injections of various doses of dimeric testosterone and of testosterone enanthate into castrated male rats upon serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), pituitary LH, and on the weight of the seminal vesicles, the ventral prostate and the levator ani muscle, was investigated. The effect of the enanthate was characterized by a rapid onset and a protracted androgenic action and a suppression of serum LH, while the dimeric testosterone brought about only a moderate but very even depot effect. The injection of 5 mg of the dimeric testosterone caused a positive feedback effectu upon LH release for 16 weeks. The results indicate that the dimeric testosterone may exert is hormonal effects as intact ester.", "PMID": 457037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12464", "title": "18-Hydroxy-11-deoxycorticosterone in hypertensive uremic patients during hemodialysis.", "content": "The present study was carried out in 25 hypertensive uremic patients on regular 4 h dialysis, 3 times a week. Plasma 18-hydroxy-11-deoxycorticosterone (18-OH-DOC), aldosterone (PA) and corticosteroids were determined by radioimmunoassay and competitive protein binding technique before and at the end of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd hour of hemodialysis. Plasma 18-HD-DOC was normal before dialysis and did not change significantly during hemodialysis, whereas body fluids and electolytes decreased progressively. No correlation was observed between blood pressure and 18-OH-DOC during dialysis. 18-OH-DOC did not correlate with PA which decreases progressively during hemodialysis and was correlated to plasma corticosteroids only at the 3rd hour of dialysis, probably on account of the enhanced influence of ACTH on the adrenal cortex.", "contents": "18-Hydroxy-11-deoxycorticosterone in hypertensive uremic patients during hemodialysis. The present study was carried out in 25 hypertensive uremic patients on regular 4 h dialysis, 3 times a week. Plasma 18-hydroxy-11-deoxycorticosterone (18-OH-DOC), aldosterone (PA) and corticosteroids were determined by radioimmunoassay and competitive protein binding technique before and at the end of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd hour of hemodialysis. Plasma 18-HD-DOC was normal before dialysis and did not change significantly during hemodialysis, whereas body fluids and electolytes decreased progressively. No correlation was observed between blood pressure and 18-OH-DOC during dialysis. 18-OH-DOC did not correlate with PA which decreases progressively during hemodialysis and was correlated to plasma corticosteroids only at the 3rd hour of dialysis, probably on account of the enhanced influence of ACTH on the adrenal cortex.", "PMID": 457038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12465", "title": "The structure of the enterocyte in relation to its position on the villus in childhood: an electron microscopical study.", "content": "An electron study of histologically normal small intestinal mucosa taken from 10 children has shown, on morphological grounds, that the mid-region of the villus is best adapted for digestion and absorption. Microvilli in the mid-region were tallest, and presented the maximal surface area. In contrast the upper region of the villus exhibited a reduction in microvillous surface area and some cellular damage. Cellular extrusion was observed near the base of the villus as well as near the tip. The occurrence of cellular alterations in the oldest and more exposed regions of normal mucosa in childhood may be symptomatic of a natural epithelial ageing process but may also be the result of an adverse luminal effect on the enterocytes. These findings differ from some of the observations made on adult small intestinal mucosa where it has been reported that the microvilli present a maximal surface area and the enterocytes are most active at the tips of the villi rather than in the mid-region.", "contents": "The structure of the enterocyte in relation to its position on the villus in childhood: an electron microscopical study. An electron study of histologically normal small intestinal mucosa taken from 10 children has shown, on morphological grounds, that the mid-region of the villus is best adapted for digestion and absorption. Microvilli in the mid-region were tallest, and presented the maximal surface area. In contrast the upper region of the villus exhibited a reduction in microvillous surface area and some cellular damage. Cellular extrusion was observed near the base of the villus as well as near the tip. The occurrence of cellular alterations in the oldest and more exposed regions of normal mucosa in childhood may be symptomatic of a natural epithelial ageing process but may also be the result of an adverse luminal effect on the enterocytes. These findings differ from some of the observations made on adult small intestinal mucosa where it has been reported that the microvilli present a maximal surface area and the enterocytes are most active at the tips of the villi rather than in the mid-region.", "PMID": 457039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12466", "title": "Postmastectomy lymphangiosarcoma: a reappraisal of the concept--a critical review and report of an illustrative case.", "content": "The syndrome of postmastectomy lymphangiosarcoma (LAS) has been universally accepted since it was first outlined by Stewart & Treves (1948), except for a small number of authors who concluded that the neoplasms arising in the chronic lymphoedematous arms were in fact due to retrograde spread from the original breast carcinoma (Laffargue, Pinet & le Go 1960, Giannardi, Pel\u00f9 & Zampi 1960, Giannardi & Pel\u00f9 1961, Delarue 1962, Salm 1963, Laugier, Olmos, Hunziker & Orusco 1973), but their views have been largely ignored. A case is reported in whom neoplastic arm lesions appeared 27 years after mastectomy and were due, in our opinion, to recent metastases from a new primary Carcinoma of the lung. The validity of the entire concept of LAS is re-examined.", "contents": "Postmastectomy lymphangiosarcoma: a reappraisal of the concept--a critical review and report of an illustrative case. The syndrome of postmastectomy lymphangiosarcoma (LAS) has been universally accepted since it was first outlined by Stewart & Treves (1948), except for a small number of authors who concluded that the neoplasms arising in the chronic lymphoedematous arms were in fact due to retrograde spread from the original breast carcinoma (Laffargue, Pinet & le Go 1960, Giannardi, Pel\u00f9 & Zampi 1960, Giannardi & Pel\u00f9 1961, Delarue 1962, Salm 1963, Laugier, Olmos, Hunziker & Orusco 1973), but their views have been largely ignored. A case is reported in whom neoplastic arm lesions appeared 27 years after mastectomy and were due, in our opinion, to recent metastases from a new primary Carcinoma of the lung. The validity of the entire concept of LAS is re-examined.", "PMID": 457040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12467", "title": "Mucosal hyperplasia in clonic diverticula.", "content": "Benign, nonpolypoid mucosal hyperplasia has been consistently observed adjacent to colonic carcinomas. In order to determine the specificity of this association we looked for this type of mucosa in diverticulosis with or without diverticulitis, a disease thought not to be causally related to carcinoma. Nonpolypoid mucosal hyperplasis was frequently found within diverticula suggesting that this mucosal abnormality is, in some instances, unrelated specifically to malignancy.", "contents": "Mucosal hyperplasia in clonic diverticula. Benign, nonpolypoid mucosal hyperplasia has been consistently observed adjacent to colonic carcinomas. In order to determine the specificity of this association we looked for this type of mucosa in diverticulosis with or without diverticulitis, a disease thought not to be causally related to carcinoma. Nonpolypoid mucosal hyperplasis was frequently found within diverticula suggesting that this mucosal abnormality is, in some instances, unrelated specifically to malignancy.", "PMID": 457041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12468", "title": "Fertility in psychiatric outpatients.", "content": "The fertility rates of 223 female schizophrenic outpatients and 479 female nonschizophrenic outpatients were compared to a probability sample of 300 women residing in the same geographic area, metropolitan Atlanta, and from the same social strata as the patients. Age- and race-adjusted comparisons showed that the mean number of children per woman and levels of unwanted and unplanned fertility did not differ in the different diagnostic groups. Furthermore, the rates were not lower for the psychiatric patients than for the general population. In order to reduce an important source of psychiatric morbidity, those in the mental health professions need to pay more attention to the family planning desires of their patients.", "contents": "Fertility in psychiatric outpatients. The fertility rates of 223 female schizophrenic outpatients and 479 female nonschizophrenic outpatients were compared to a probability sample of 300 women residing in the same geographic area, metropolitan Atlanta, and from the same social strata as the patients. Age- and race-adjusted comparisons showed that the mean number of children per woman and levels of unwanted and unplanned fertility did not differ in the different diagnostic groups. Furthermore, the rates were not lower for the psychiatric patients than for the general population. In order to reduce an important source of psychiatric morbidity, those in the mental health professions need to pay more attention to the family planning desires of their patients.", "PMID": 457042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12469", "title": "Physical examinations in psychiatric practice in Ohio.", "content": "In 1974 members of the Ohio Psychiatric Association were surveyed to determine the extent to which psychiatrists performed physical examinations and their attitudes toward conducting such examinations. Responses from 222 psychiatrists showed that most believed psychiatric patients should have a physical examination, but that it should be conducted by a physician other than a psychiatrist. Those who felt more confident in their diagnostic skills tended to perform examinations more frequently than psychiatrists who were unsure of their skills. Regardless of whether they performed examinations, the respondents were almost universal in the belief that their medical training and experience added an important dimension to their skills.", "contents": "Physical examinations in psychiatric practice in Ohio. In 1974 members of the Ohio Psychiatric Association were surveyed to determine the extent to which psychiatrists performed physical examinations and their attitudes toward conducting such examinations. Responses from 222 psychiatrists showed that most believed psychiatric patients should have a physical examination, but that it should be conducted by a physician other than a psychiatrist. Those who felt more confident in their diagnostic skills tended to perform examinations more frequently than psychiatrists who were unsure of their skills. Regardless of whether they performed examinations, the respondents were almost universal in the belief that their medical training and experience added an important dimension to their skills.", "PMID": 457043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12470", "title": "Patterns of utilization of a neuropsychiatric assessment unit.", "content": "During a one-year period an inpatient psychiatric ward specializing in the evaluation of neuropsychiatric disorders admitted 306 patients for neurodiagnostic services and 119 general psychiatric patients for brief treatment. About half the neurodiagnostic patients were referred by sources not affiliated with the unit, and about a quarter came from outside the immediate area, indicating that a variety of community agencies relied on the unit as a referral facility. In nearly 60 per cent of the cases evaluated, suspected medical or neurologic abnormality was confirmed and the probable etiology determined, while in only a small percentage was a previously unsuspected abnormality detected; this combination of outcomes suggests that most referrals were appropriate and that the unit's main function was to clarify etiologic relationship and design treatment plans.", "contents": "Patterns of utilization of a neuropsychiatric assessment unit. During a one-year period an inpatient psychiatric ward specializing in the evaluation of neuropsychiatric disorders admitted 306 patients for neurodiagnostic services and 119 general psychiatric patients for brief treatment. About half the neurodiagnostic patients were referred by sources not affiliated with the unit, and about a quarter came from outside the immediate area, indicating that a variety of community agencies relied on the unit as a referral facility. In nearly 60 per cent of the cases evaluated, suspected medical or neurologic abnormality was confirmed and the probable etiology determined, while in only a small percentage was a previously unsuspected abnormality detected; this combination of outcomes suggests that most referrals were appropriate and that the unit's main function was to clarify etiologic relationship and design treatment plans.", "PMID": 457044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12471", "title": "A model for acute psychiatric inpatient treatment of latency-age children.", "content": "Beginning with the premise that acute inpatient treatment of severely disturbed latency-age children offers enormous advantages over other types of interventions, the author describes a model for such treatment. The model consists of three phases: initial, working-through, and termination. It has a psychoanalytic basis and takes into account changing factors, such as the child's symptoms and the attitudes of both the child and his parents throughout different stages of the hospitalization. A case history illustrates the various phases and the treatment interventions used.", "contents": "A model for acute psychiatric inpatient treatment of latency-age children. Beginning with the premise that acute inpatient treatment of severely disturbed latency-age children offers enormous advantages over other types of interventions, the author describes a model for such treatment. The model consists of three phases: initial, working-through, and termination. It has a psychoanalytic basis and takes into account changing factors, such as the child's symptoms and the attitudes of both the child and his parents throughout different stages of the hospitalization. A case history illustrates the various phases and the treatment interventions used.", "PMID": 457045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12472", "title": "Staff and patients evaluate their therapeutic community.", "content": "A committee of staff and patients conducted an informal evaluation of a therapeutic community on a 16-bed psychiatric unit. The committee reviewed the history, original intent, current purpose, and effectiveness of meetings held on the unit; when problems were identified, suggestions for change were formulated. The evaluation served to increase the efficiency of meetings and to counteract what the authors termed the \"drift phenomenon,\" or the tendency of the original purpose or structure of a meeting to change over time. The process also fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect and an enhanced sense of purpose among the patients and staff who worked on the committee.", "contents": "Staff and patients evaluate their therapeutic community. A committee of staff and patients conducted an informal evaluation of a therapeutic community on a 16-bed psychiatric unit. The committee reviewed the history, original intent, current purpose, and effectiveness of meetings held on the unit; when problems were identified, suggestions for change were formulated. The evaluation served to increase the efficiency of meetings and to counteract what the authors termed the \"drift phenomenon,\" or the tendency of the original purpose or structure of a meeting to change over time. The process also fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect and an enhanced sense of purpose among the patients and staff who worked on the committee.", "PMID": 457046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12473", "title": "HMOs and hospitals: what are the options?", "content": "Each individual hospital must assess the relationship it wishes to have with HMOs/It is clear, however, that hospitals should get involved in the effort to deliver comprehensive health care services to their communities.", "contents": "HMOs and hospitals: what are the options? Each individual hospital must assess the relationship it wishes to have with HMOs/It is clear, however, that hospitals should get involved in the effort to deliver comprehensive health care services to their communities.", "PMID": 457060} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12474", "title": "Competitive approach may ease problems in delivery system.", "content": "Experts believe that the absence of effective market forces in the health care field removes incentives for efficiency from both providers and consumers of health care/In today's climate, the authors say, it may be that competition, not regulation, may help solve our current problems.", "contents": "Competitive approach may ease problems in delivery system. Experts believe that the absence of effective market forces in the health care field removes incentives for efficiency from both providers and consumers of health care/In today's climate, the authors say, it may be that competition, not regulation, may help solve our current problems.", "PMID": 457061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12475", "title": "Shaky start overcome by Illinois HMO.", "content": "Trying to provide too much too soon, early HMO nearly is bankrupted, but infusion of sound management practices turns it around.", "contents": "Shaky start overcome by Illinois HMO. Trying to provide too much too soon, early HMO nearly is bankrupted, but infusion of sound management practices turns it around.", "PMID": 457062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12476", "title": "Lessons learned through hospital involvement in HMO.", "content": "The major considerations that affect hospital participation in HMOs are motivation, governance, medical staff involvement, financing, and planning and operations/These considerations are discussed in general and as they apply to one particular hospital's experience.", "contents": "Lessons learned through hospital involvement in HMO. The major considerations that affect hospital participation in HMOs are motivation, governance, medical staff involvement, financing, and planning and operations/These considerations are discussed in general and as they apply to one particular hospital's experience.", "PMID": 457063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12477", "title": "HMOs: a look back, a look ahead.", "content": "It is now eight years since federal legislation recognized HMOs/The author overviews progress in that period, describes present challenges, and looks to the future.", "contents": "HMOs: a look back, a look ahead. It is now eight years since federal legislation recognized HMOs/The author overviews progress in that period, describes present challenges, and looks to the future.", "PMID": 457064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12478", "title": "Dramatic rise in national growth of HMOs.", "content": "Studies show that HMOs have been able to lower hospital utilization rates and are introducing new elements of competition into the health care system.", "contents": "Dramatic rise in national growth of HMOs. Studies show that HMOs have been able to lower hospital utilization rates and are introducing new elements of competition into the health care system.", "PMID": 457065} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12479", "title": "Gearing up for primary care.", "content": "Although hospitals have long been involved in the provision of primary care services, a new opportunity now exists for hospitals to take the lead in better organizing these services.", "contents": "Gearing up for primary care. Although hospitals have long been involved in the provision of primary care services, a new opportunity now exists for hospitals to take the lead in better organizing these services.", "PMID": 457066} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12480", "title": "Should a hospital consider construction management?", "content": "Although the construction management technique can produce substantial savings, it can also, if not implemented properly, offer little advantage.", "contents": "Should a hospital consider construction management? Although the construction management technique can produce substantial savings, it can also, if not implemented properly, offer little advantage.", "PMID": 457076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12481", "title": "Where does the owner fit in the construction management process?", "content": "The construction management approach enables the owner to be involved in the building project from the initial design stage through project completion. He participates in cost-benefit decisions, helping to ensure that the best possible building is constructed at the lowest possible cost.", "contents": "Where does the owner fit in the construction management process? The construction management approach enables the owner to be involved in the building project from the initial design stage through project completion. He participates in cost-benefit decisions, helping to ensure that the best possible building is constructed at the lowest possible cost.", "PMID": 457077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12482", "title": "Construction managers provide vital services for building projects.", "content": "A construction manager can be selected on the basis of his qualifications, rather than only on the basis of a low bid. He participates in the construction phase of a project as a team member, rather than as an adversary.", "contents": "Construction managers provide vital services for building projects. A construction manager can be selected on the basis of his qualifications, rather than only on the basis of a low bid. He participates in the construction phase of a project as a team member, rather than as an adversary.", "PMID": 457078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12483", "title": "Logical thought process key to corporate plan.", "content": "Corporate planning allows an organization to determine where it is going and how it will get there. There are two major phases that make up this planning process.", "contents": "Logical thought process key to corporate plan. Corporate planning allows an organization to determine where it is going and how it will get there. There are two major phases that make up this planning process.", "PMID": 457079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12484", "title": "AHA looks at nurse credentialing.", "content": "AHA's National Conference on Categories or Nursing Practice explores the weaknesses and strengths of the credentialing system and the ramifications of proposed changes.", "contents": "AHA looks at nurse credentialing. AHA's National Conference on Categories or Nursing Practice explores the weaknesses and strengths of the credentialing system and the ramifications of proposed changes.", "PMID": 457080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12485", "title": "Shared-service paging clears the air waves.", "content": "Radio-paging channel congestion can be reduced if inhospital and areawide paging are distinguished, and if the proper equipment is used for the separate functions.", "contents": "Shared-service paging clears the air waves. Radio-paging channel congestion can be reduced if inhospital and areawide paging are distinguished, and if the proper equipment is used for the separate functions.", "PMID": 457081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12486", "title": "CHA survey of central management services organizations.", "content": "Catholic multihospital systems with central management services organizations (CMSOs) constitute a significant percentage of total Catholic hospitals and acute care beds. Results of a recent CHA survey provide a base for future analyses of the CMSO and reveal the potential for further system development.", "contents": "CHA survey of central management services organizations. Catholic multihospital systems with central management services organizations (CMSOs) constitute a significant percentage of total Catholic hospitals and acute care beds. Results of a recent CHA survey provide a base for future analyses of the CMSO and reveal the potential for further system development.", "PMID": 457091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12487", "title": "A pioneering full-service agency for older Americans.", "content": "As the over-60 population in America becomes a sizable majority with recognizable needs, ways are sought to serve those men and women who do not need to be institutionalized but who do need some kind of help in order to live independently. The Cardinal Ritter Institute in St. Louis offers \"creative care for the older person,\" putting special emphasis on home health care and health maintenance.", "contents": "A pioneering full-service agency for older Americans. As the over-60 population in America becomes a sizable majority with recognizable needs, ways are sought to serve those men and women who do not need to be institutionalized but who do need some kind of help in order to live independently. The Cardinal Ritter Institute in St. Louis offers \"creative care for the older person,\" putting special emphasis on home health care and health maintenance.", "PMID": 457092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12488", "title": "The public debate on social justice and health care: an opportunity for evangelization.", "content": "The most difficult moral choices arise at the point where social justice questions and medical-moral questions intersect. In an age of increasing technological advances and government intervention, Catholic health care facilities ought to shape a coherent moral policy that affirms human dignity and conforms to the Church's moral teaching.", "contents": "The public debate on social justice and health care: an opportunity for evangelization. The most difficult moral choices arise at the point where social justice questions and medical-moral questions intersect. In an age of increasing technological advances and government intervention, Catholic health care facilities ought to shape a coherent moral policy that affirms human dignity and conforms to the Church's moral teaching.", "PMID": 457093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12489", "title": "Educating the Christian physician: being Christian and being a physician.", "content": "Christian health workers need a common code of Christian medical mortality equal to the complex challenges of a secular society. By example and through formal teaching, the Christian student must learn the ethics, theology, and philosophy necessary to understand and justify clinical decisions.", "contents": "Educating the Christian physician: being Christian and being a physician. Christian health workers need a common code of Christian medical mortality equal to the complex challenges of a secular society. By example and through formal teaching, the Christian student must learn the ethics, theology, and philosophy necessary to understand and justify clinical decisions.", "PMID": 457094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12490", "title": "Using consumer evaluations of health care.", "content": "Patient evaluation data are valuable to hospital administrators because they indicate what quality of care means to the people the hospital serves and which aspects of care management can alter to avoid patients' negative responses.", "contents": "Using consumer evaluations of health care. Patient evaluation data are valuable to hospital administrators because they indicate what quality of care means to the people the hospital serves and which aspects of care management can alter to avoid patients' negative responses.", "PMID": 457095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12491", "title": "Loneliness--the genesis of solitude, friendship, and comtemplation.", "content": "Living creatively with loneliness means learning who we are in solitude, experiencing health healthy friendship, and responding to God's invitation to comtemplation.", "contents": "Loneliness--the genesis of solitude, friendship, and comtemplation. Living creatively with loneliness means learning who we are in solitude, experiencing health healthy friendship, and responding to God's invitation to comtemplation.", "PMID": 457096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12492", "title": "Unstable ring Y chromosome in an aspermic male.", "content": "A ring Y chromosome was found in a male showing growth retardation and aspermia but normally developed external genitalia. The ring does not display either the characteristic brilliant Y fluorescence or the typical late-replicating heterochromatin.", "contents": "Unstable ring Y chromosome in an aspermic male. A ring Y chromosome was found in a male showing growth retardation and aspermia but normally developed external genitalia. The ring does not display either the characteristic brilliant Y fluorescence or the typical late-replicating heterochromatin.", "PMID": 457111} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12493", "title": "Monosomy 10qter.", "content": "An 11-year-old girl with 10q26qter deletion is described and compared with another patient reported in the literature. The most characteristic features of monosomy 10qter seem to be: severe mental retardation; growth retardation; microcephaly; and facial dysmorphism with a long and triangular facies, a broad and prominent nasal bridge, a poorly developed tip of the nose, a short philtrum, and flattened angles of the mandible. Several of these features are opposed in type and countertype to features of trisomy 10qter.", "contents": "Monosomy 10qter. An 11-year-old girl with 10q26qter deletion is described and compared with another patient reported in the literature. The most characteristic features of monosomy 10qter seem to be: severe mental retardation; growth retardation; microcephaly; and facial dysmorphism with a long and triangular facies, a broad and prominent nasal bridge, a poorly developed tip of the nose, a short philtrum, and flattened angles of the mandible. Several of these features are opposed in type and countertype to features of trisomy 10qter.", "PMID": 457112} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12494", "title": "Partial trisomy of the short arm of chromosome 3 (3p25 to 3pter). A distinct clinical entity.", "content": "Two profoundly mentally retarded brothers with partial trisomy for the distal part of the short arm of chromosome 3 (3p25 to 3pter) are described. Their anomaly arose as a segregation product of a balanced t(3p-;18q+) translocation in the mother. Compared with the other cases of partial 3p trisomy reported up to now, the present patients display a similar craniofacial dysmorphism with hypertelorism, broad nasal tip, short upper lip with prominent philtrum, and a large mouth with down-turned corners. Other stigmata, such as a prominent, high forehead with frontal bossing and full cheeks, were present during childhood but progressively disappeared.", "contents": "Partial trisomy of the short arm of chromosome 3 (3p25 to 3pter). A distinct clinical entity. Two profoundly mentally retarded brothers with partial trisomy for the distal part of the short arm of chromosome 3 (3p25 to 3pter) are described. Their anomaly arose as a segregation product of a balanced t(3p-;18q+) translocation in the mother. Compared with the other cases of partial 3p trisomy reported up to now, the present patients display a similar craniofacial dysmorphism with hypertelorism, broad nasal tip, short upper lip with prominent philtrum, and a large mouth with down-turned corners. Other stigmata, such as a prominent, high forehead with frontal bossing and full cheeks, were present during childhood but progressively disappeared.", "PMID": 457113} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12495", "title": "Partial trisomy 4q: two cases with a familial translocation t(4;18)(q27;q23).", "content": "Clinical and cytogenetic data of two related patients, both trisomic for the segment 4q27 to qter, are reported. Familial studies determined that the mothers of the two probands were carriers of the same balanced translocation between chromosomes 4 and 18. Altogether, two partial trisomies 4q, five balanced karyotypes, and one 45,X0 karyotype were found in the family. The 18 cases reported to date are reviewed with respect to the karyotype-phenotype correlation.", "contents": "Partial trisomy 4q: two cases with a familial translocation t(4;18)(q27;q23). Clinical and cytogenetic data of two related patients, both trisomic for the segment 4q27 to qter, are reported. Familial studies determined that the mothers of the two probands were carriers of the same balanced translocation between chromosomes 4 and 18. Altogether, two partial trisomies 4q, five balanced karyotypes, and one 45,X0 karyotype were found in the family. The 18 cases reported to date are reviewed with respect to the karyotype-phenotype correlation.", "PMID": 457114} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12496", "title": "Two cases of trisomy 12p due to rcpt (12;21)(p11;p11) inherited through three generations.", "content": "Two cases of trisomy 12p due to a familial translocation t(12;21) (p11;p11) inherited through three generations are presented. The clinical features of both affected individuals are consistent with those previously reported. Study of the NORs by silver staining showed translocation of the NOR from chromosome 21 onto the der(12) and suggested that the activity of this site has been suppressed in some carriers.", "contents": "Two cases of trisomy 12p due to rcpt (12;21)(p11;p11) inherited through three generations. Two cases of trisomy 12p due to a familial translocation t(12;21) (p11;p11) inherited through three generations are presented. The clinical features of both affected individuals are consistent with those previously reported. Study of the NORs by silver staining showed translocation of the NOR from chromosome 21 onto the der(12) and suggested that the activity of this site has been suppressed in some carriers.", "PMID": 457115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12497", "title": "Two cases of familial paracentric inversion in man associated with sex chromosome anomaly. 47,XXY,inv(5)(q21q32) and 45,X,inv(7)(q11.3q22.3).", "content": "A paracentric inversion of chromosome 5 was detected after RHG banding in a subject affected by Klinefelter's syndrome. The inversion was also observed in the patient's mother, and was confirmed by QFQ- and RBA-banding techniques. A second paracentric inversion affecting chromsome 7 was detected in a woman with Turner's syndrome. The same structural anomaly was found in her father and her half-brother. The possible relationship between sex chromosome nondisjunction and paracentric inversion is discussed. Furthermore, the inversion of chromosome 7 reproduces exactly the chromosome 7 of the gorilla, which is presumed to be ancestral to the human 7. This therefore appears to be the first reported case of reverse chromosomal mutation.", "contents": "Two cases of familial paracentric inversion in man associated with sex chromosome anomaly. 47,XXY,inv(5)(q21q32) and 45,X,inv(7)(q11.3q22.3). A paracentric inversion of chromosome 5 was detected after RHG banding in a subject affected by Klinefelter's syndrome. The inversion was also observed in the patient's mother, and was confirmed by QFQ- and RBA-banding techniques. A second paracentric inversion affecting chromsome 7 was detected in a woman with Turner's syndrome. The same structural anomaly was found in her father and her half-brother. The possible relationship between sex chromosome nondisjunction and paracentric inversion is discussed. Furthermore, the inversion of chromosome 7 reproduces exactly the chromosome 7 of the gorilla, which is presumed to be ancestral to the human 7. This therefore appears to be the first reported case of reverse chromosomal mutation.", "PMID": 457116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12498", "title": "Characterisation of the isoenzymes of phosphoglucomutase (PGM) determined by the first (PGM1) and second (PGM2) locus observed by isoelectric focusing.", "content": "The existence of four alleles of phosphoglucomutase (PGM1) in human red cell lysates has previously been demonstrated by isoelectric focusing (Bark et al., 1976; K\u00fchnl et al., 1977; Sutton and Burgess, 1978). Experiments are now described in which the position of each of the first-locus (PGM1) and second-locus (PGM2) isoenzymes is defined, thus extending and confirming the original proposal made by Bark et al.", "contents": "Characterisation of the isoenzymes of phosphoglucomutase (PGM) determined by the first (PGM1) and second (PGM2) locus observed by isoelectric focusing. The existence of four alleles of phosphoglucomutase (PGM1) in human red cell lysates has previously been demonstrated by isoelectric focusing (Bark et al., 1976; K\u00fchnl et al., 1977; Sutton and Burgess, 1978). Experiments are now described in which the position of each of the first-locus (PGM1) and second-locus (PGM2) isoenzymes is defined, thus extending and confirming the original proposal made by Bark et al.", "PMID": 457117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12499", "title": "The likely region of overlap (LRO) method for physical assignment of loci.", "content": "Numerical analysis is applied to physical assignments of loci, providing point estimates, an LRO confidence interval, and a chi(2) test of consistency whether there is a smallest region of overlap (SRO) or not. Results are given for two examples and summarized for 81 loci in man.", "contents": "The likely region of overlap (LRO) method for physical assignment of loci. Numerical analysis is applied to physical assignments of loci, providing point estimates, an LRO confidence interval, and a chi(2) test of consistency whether there is a smallest region of overlap (SRO) or not. Results are given for two examples and summarized for 81 loci in man.", "PMID": 457118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12500", "title": "Chromatographic components of beta-hexosaminidase in I-cell disease (mucolipidosis II).", "content": "Isozymes of N-acetyl-beta-D-hexosaminidase in body fluids, culture medium, postmortem organs, and cultured fibroblasts from patients with I-cell disease were resolved by ion exchange column chromatography. The elution pattern was compared in detail with that of the isozymes in control samples. This approach revealed no qualitative differences between the isozymes from the two sources. There is a relative increase of the neuraminidase-sensitive components of hexosaminidase in I-cell disease. This phenomenon is probably related less to the unknown primary defect of the disorder than to the quantitative change in the distribution of hexosaminidase components between the intra- and the extracellular compartment.", "contents": "Chromatographic components of beta-hexosaminidase in I-cell disease (mucolipidosis II). Isozymes of N-acetyl-beta-D-hexosaminidase in body fluids, culture medium, postmortem organs, and cultured fibroblasts from patients with I-cell disease were resolved by ion exchange column chromatography. The elution pattern was compared in detail with that of the isozymes in control samples. This approach revealed no qualitative differences between the isozymes from the two sources. There is a relative increase of the neuraminidase-sensitive components of hexosaminidase in I-cell disease. This phenomenon is probably related less to the unknown primary defect of the disorder than to the quantitative change in the distribution of hexosaminidase components between the intra- and the extracellular compartment.", "PMID": 457119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12501", "title": "C'3 polymorphism in Italy.", "content": "C'3 phenotype and gene frequencies observed in two Italian samples are reported. The allele frequencies resemble those reported for other Caucasian populations. Five different rare variants are described.", "contents": "C'3 polymorphism in Italy. C'3 phenotype and gene frequencies observed in two Italian samples are reported. The allele frequencies resemble those reported for other Caucasian populations. Five different rare variants are described.", "PMID": 457120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12502", "title": "Electrophoretic demonstration of heterozygosis in hereditary pyruvate kinase deficiency. An unusual method.", "content": "The defective PK variant of a patient with a severe form of hemolytic anemia was characterized by its inability to undergo a normal 'proteolytic maturation.' In obligatory heterozygotes it could be proved that red cells contained different PK species, some of them sensitive and the others partially resistant to the action of trypsin.", "contents": "Electrophoretic demonstration of heterozygosis in hereditary pyruvate kinase deficiency. An unusual method. The defective PK variant of a patient with a severe form of hemolytic anemia was characterized by its inability to undergo a normal 'proteolytic maturation.' In obligatory heterozygotes it could be proved that red cells contained different PK species, some of them sensitive and the others partially resistant to the action of trypsin.", "PMID": 457121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12503", "title": "Chromosome aberrations in psoriatic patients treated with arsenic.", "content": "A significantly increased frequency of chromosomal aberrations was found in lymphocytes from eight psoriatic patients previously treated with arsenic than in lymphocytes from eight psoriatics with no such previous treatment. In most patients the arsenic therapy was discontinued more than 15 years ago. In the arsenic-treated group a statistically significant heterogeneity was found with respect to the frequency of aberrations. The frequency of sister chromatid exchange was not increased in the arsenic-treated patients.", "contents": "Chromosome aberrations in psoriatic patients treated with arsenic. A significantly increased frequency of chromosomal aberrations was found in lymphocytes from eight psoriatic patients previously treated with arsenic than in lymphocytes from eight psoriatics with no such previous treatment. In most patients the arsenic therapy was discontinued more than 15 years ago. In the arsenic-treated group a statistically significant heterogeneity was found with respect to the frequency of aberrations. The frequency of sister chromatid exchange was not increased in the arsenic-treated patients.", "PMID": 457124} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12504", "title": "Periodic hypokalemic paralysis transmitted by an unaffected male with negative family history: a delayed mutation?", "content": "A pedigree is described that includes three cases of periodic hypokalemic paralysis. Apparently, the disease has arisen by de novo mutation in a father of two affected daughters, who, however, is not affected himself. This is unexpected, since in males the disorder is generally inherited as a fully dominant trait. Therefore we propose that these findings result from an early somatic or a half-chromatid mutation.", "contents": "Periodic hypokalemic paralysis transmitted by an unaffected male with negative family history: a delayed mutation? A pedigree is described that includes three cases of periodic hypokalemic paralysis. Apparently, the disease has arisen by de novo mutation in a father of two affected daughters, who, however, is not affected himself. This is unexpected, since in males the disorder is generally inherited as a fully dominant trait. Therefore we propose that these findings result from an early somatic or a half-chromatid mutation.", "PMID": 457125} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12505", "title": "Los Angeles variant of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) in a Mexican family.", "content": "Enzymatic activity and electrophoretic mobility of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) were assayed in a Mexican family (8 sibs and their parents) with two galactosemic members. Normal, galactosemic and Los Angeles enzyme variants were identified. A survey of the ethnological backgrounds of the individuals reported to date with the Los Angeles variant showed multiple origins that could be explained by an ancient and widespread gene mutation or, more probably, by further biochemical heterogeneity.", "contents": "Los Angeles variant of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) in a Mexican family. Enzymatic activity and electrophoretic mobility of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.12) were assayed in a Mexican family (8 sibs and their parents) with two galactosemic members. Normal, galactosemic and Los Angeles enzyme variants were identified. A survey of the ethnological backgrounds of the individuals reported to date with the Los Angeles variant showed multiple origins that could be explained by an ancient and widespread gene mutation or, more probably, by further biochemical heterogeneity.", "PMID": 457126} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12506", "title": "Interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 8. Karyotype: 46,XY,del(8)(q21).", "content": "This report describes a polymalformed 18-month-old male with an interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 8. His karyotype is: 46,XY,del(8)(q21).", "contents": "Interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 8. Karyotype: 46,XY,del(8)(q21). This report describes a polymalformed 18-month-old male with an interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 8. His karyotype is: 46,XY,del(8)(q21).", "PMID": 457127} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12507", "title": "Fragile site long arm chromosome 16.", "content": "A fragile site at the long arms (q21) of chromosome 16 was found in two persons, each of whom became the parent of a child with a de novo structural chromosome abnormality--a balanced autosomal translocation and an autosomal deletion. The question of an increased risk of structural chromosome abnormalities in the offspring of persons with fragile site long arm 16 is discussed.", "contents": "Fragile site long arm chromosome 16. A fragile site at the long arms (q21) of chromosome 16 was found in two persons, each of whom became the parent of a child with a de novo structural chromosome abnormality--a balanced autosomal translocation and an autosomal deletion. The question of an increased risk of structural chromosome abnormalities in the offspring of persons with fragile site long arm 16 is discussed.", "PMID": 457128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12508", "title": "Partial long arm deletion of one X chromosome in a patient with secondary amenorrhea.", "content": "A partial long arm deletion of one X chromosome was observed in a patient with secondary amenorrhea and with no features of Turner's syndrome. It was shown that the deleted X chromosome was the inactivated one in all metaphases of the lymphocyte culture and of the tissue culture from gonadal biopsy. The patient was detected during a cytogenetic study of secondary amenorrhea of ovarian origin.", "contents": "Partial long arm deletion of one X chromosome in a patient with secondary amenorrhea. A partial long arm deletion of one X chromosome was observed in a patient with secondary amenorrhea and with no features of Turner's syndrome. It was shown that the deleted X chromosome was the inactivated one in all metaphases of the lymphocyte culture and of the tissue culture from gonadal biopsy. The patient was detected during a cytogenetic study of secondary amenorrhea of ovarian origin.", "PMID": 457129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12509", "title": "A case of long arm deletion of the X chromosome in a patient with secondary amenorrhea.", "content": "This paper presents the clinical and cytogenetic findings in a female patient with secondary amenorrhea and normal phenotype. Some difficulties related to karyotype-phenotype correlation are discussed.", "contents": "A case of long arm deletion of the X chromosome in a patient with secondary amenorrhea. This paper presents the clinical and cytogenetic findings in a female patient with secondary amenorrhea and normal phenotype. Some difficulties related to karyotype-phenotype correlation are discussed.", "PMID": 457130} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12510", "title": "Regional assignment of red cell acid phosphatase locus to band 2p25.", "content": "Cytogenetic and enzyme studies of a child trisomic for 6p and monosomic for band 2p25 are reported. A tentative assignment of the ACP1 gene locus to band 2p25 is suggested by a 50% decrease in red cell acid phosphatase activity.", "contents": "Regional assignment of red cell acid phosphatase locus to band 2p25. Cytogenetic and enzyme studies of a child trisomic for 6p and monosomic for band 2p25 are reported. A tentative assignment of the ACP1 gene locus to band 2p25 is suggested by a 50% decrease in red cell acid phosphatase activity.", "PMID": 457131} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12511", "title": "Relationship between alpha-L-fucosidase deficiency in plasma and alpha-L-fucosidase activity in leukocytes.", "content": "After testing a population sample of 185 hospitalized Italian children for the plasma alpha-L-fucosidase deficiency and establishing an approximate threshold value between heterozygotes and wild-type homozygotes, we analyzed by two statistical methods the distribution of the two genotypes. The results obtained by probit analysis agree with threshold and average values expected on the basis of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. In addition, the level of alpha-fucosidase in leukocytes of 12 individuals with deficiency of alpha-fucosidase in plasma was found to be significantly lower than that of 61 controls (P less than 0.005). These results indicate that the mutation(s) causing a deficiency of alpha-fucosidase in plasma is (are) also expressed in leukocytes.", "contents": "Relationship between alpha-L-fucosidase deficiency in plasma and alpha-L-fucosidase activity in leukocytes. After testing a population sample of 185 hospitalized Italian children for the plasma alpha-L-fucosidase deficiency and establishing an approximate threshold value between heterozygotes and wild-type homozygotes, we analyzed by two statistical methods the distribution of the two genotypes. The results obtained by probit analysis agree with threshold and average values expected on the basis of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. In addition, the level of alpha-fucosidase in leukocytes of 12 individuals with deficiency of alpha-fucosidase in plasma was found to be significantly lower than that of 61 controls (P less than 0.005). These results indicate that the mutation(s) causing a deficiency of alpha-fucosidase in plasma is (are) also expressed in leukocytes.", "PMID": 457132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12512", "title": "Characteristics of galactokinase and galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase in cultivated fibroblasts and amniotic fluid cells.", "content": "The kinetic characteristics of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase and galactokinase in cultivated fibroblasts and amniotic fluid cells were investigated. The Km values of galactokinase for galactose at 2.0 mM ATP are 0.34 mM in amniotic fluid cells and 0.48 mM in fibroblasts. The Km values for ATP at 0.5 mM galactose are 1.25 mM and 2.10 mM. Transferase and galactokinase activities and protein content increase logarithmically during the growth of cultivated cells. The specific activity of both enzymes also increases and reaches a maximum level 10--15 days after subculture. The specific activity of transferase increases faster than that of galactokinase in the case of amniotic fluid cells. In the case of fibroblasts the specific activity of galactokinase increases faster than that of transferase.", "contents": "Characteristics of galactokinase and galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase in cultivated fibroblasts and amniotic fluid cells. The kinetic characteristics of galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase and galactokinase in cultivated fibroblasts and amniotic fluid cells were investigated. The Km values of galactokinase for galactose at 2.0 mM ATP are 0.34 mM in amniotic fluid cells and 0.48 mM in fibroblasts. The Km values for ATP at 0.5 mM galactose are 1.25 mM and 2.10 mM. Transferase and galactokinase activities and protein content increase logarithmically during the growth of cultivated cells. The specific activity of both enzymes also increases and reaches a maximum level 10--15 days after subculture. The specific activity of transferase increases faster than that of galactokinase in the case of amniotic fluid cells. In the case of fibroblasts the specific activity of galactokinase increases faster than that of transferase.", "PMID": 457133} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12513", "title": "The constitutional fragility of chromosome 12 in a case of 46,XX,var(12)(gh',RHG,CAG,CBG).", "content": "The constitutional fragility of chromosome no. 12 in a female infant with unspecific clinical signs is described. RHG, GAG, and CBG methods were used to localize the fragile point. The breaks seem to be in 12q1.3, and always within an R band. A possible correlation between the phenotypic modifications and the chromosome variant is discussed.", "contents": "The constitutional fragility of chromosome 12 in a case of 46,XX,var(12)(gh',RHG,CAG,CBG). The constitutional fragility of chromosome no. 12 in a female infant with unspecific clinical signs is described. RHG, GAG, and CBG methods were used to localize the fragile point. The breaks seem to be in 12q1.3, and always within an R band. A possible correlation between the phenotypic modifications and the chromosome variant is discussed.", "PMID": 457134} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12514", "title": "18Q - syndrome resulting from a tdic(14p; 18q).", "content": "A case of 18q- syndrome due to a de novo tdic(14p;18q) is presented. The interest of this observation lies in the rarity of stable dicentric chromosomes arising from reciprocal translocations between autosomes.", "contents": "18Q - syndrome resulting from a tdic(14p; 18q). A case of 18q- syndrome due to a de novo tdic(14p;18q) is presented. The interest of this observation lies in the rarity of stable dicentric chromosomes arising from reciprocal translocations between autosomes.", "PMID": 457135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12515", "title": "Abnormal childhood phenotypes associated with the same balanced chromosome rearrangements as in the parents.", "content": "Three patients have been detected because of abnormal phenotypes. Balanced chromosome rearrangements were found in their karyotypes, and in one of the parents in each case. In these three families the association of an abnormal phenotype and a balanced chromosome rearrangement may either be a chance happening or be induced by a submicroscopic loss of chromosome material, for which different position effects may be responsible, according to the case in question. These observations prompt us to ask what decision should be made relative to termination of pregnancy if such a rearrangement is found in amniotic cells in a family with a previous abnormal child.", "contents": "Abnormal childhood phenotypes associated with the same balanced chromosome rearrangements as in the parents. Three patients have been detected because of abnormal phenotypes. Balanced chromosome rearrangements were found in their karyotypes, and in one of the parents in each case. In these three families the association of an abnormal phenotype and a balanced chromosome rearrangement may either be a chance happening or be induced by a submicroscopic loss of chromosome material, for which different position effects may be responsible, according to the case in question. These observations prompt us to ask what decision should be made relative to termination of pregnancy if such a rearrangement is found in amniotic cells in a family with a previous abnormal child.", "PMID": 457136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12516", "title": "Sister chromatid exchange and cell cycle in fibroblasts of Bloom's syndrome.", "content": "Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) has been studied in the fibroblasts of five Bloom's syndrome patients, one heterozygote, and two normal individuals. The high frequency of SCE already known in the lymphocytes of Bloom's syndrome was also found in the fibroblasts of all five patients. However, populations with low and high frequency of SCE were not found. In addition, chromosome aberrations appeared with a lower frequency. The cell cycle duration in the Bloom's fibroblasts appeared to be similar to that in the normal cell line, and the difference in the growth pattern appeared to be due to the variation in the mitotic index. The cell cycle lasted about 24 h in at least four of the Bloom's lines studied during the present experiments.", "contents": "Sister chromatid exchange and cell cycle in fibroblasts of Bloom's syndrome. Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) has been studied in the fibroblasts of five Bloom's syndrome patients, one heterozygote, and two normal individuals. The high frequency of SCE already known in the lymphocytes of Bloom's syndrome was also found in the fibroblasts of all five patients. However, populations with low and high frequency of SCE were not found. In addition, chromosome aberrations appeared with a lower frequency. The cell cycle duration in the Bloom's fibroblasts appeared to be similar to that in the normal cell line, and the difference in the growth pattern appeared to be due to the variation in the mitotic index. The cell cycle lasted about 24 h in at least four of the Bloom's lines studied during the present experiments.", "PMID": 457137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12517", "title": "Single Cd band in dicentric translocations with one suppressed centromere.", "content": "Six human dicentric translocations involving the presence of a suppressed centromere were studied: one case of t dic(9;22), one of t dic(13;18), one of t dic(14;15), and three of t dic(13;14). All exhibited chromatid separation at an acrocentric centromere and were demonstrated to have two regions of centromeric constitutive heterochromatin. The four that were available for retrospective study showed a single Cd band, with absence of the Cd band at the suppressed centromere.", "contents": "Single Cd band in dicentric translocations with one suppressed centromere. Six human dicentric translocations involving the presence of a suppressed centromere were studied: one case of t dic(9;22), one of t dic(13;18), one of t dic(14;15), and three of t dic(13;14). All exhibited chromatid separation at an acrocentric centromere and were demonstrated to have two regions of centromeric constitutive heterochromatin. The four that were available for retrospective study showed a single Cd band, with absence of the Cd band at the suppressed centromere.", "PMID": 457138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12518", "title": "Terminal long-arm deletion of chromosome 1 in a male infant.", "content": "The clinical findings in a child with a terminal deletion (1) (q42 leads to qter) is described and compared with three cases with a similar chromosomal anomaly.", "contents": "Terminal long-arm deletion of chromosome 1 in a male infant. The clinical findings in a child with a terminal deletion (1) (q42 leads to qter) is described and compared with three cases with a similar chromosomal anomaly.", "PMID": 457139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12519", "title": "Three cases of ring chromosome 2, one derived from a paternal 2/6 translocation.", "content": "Two cases of primary ring chromosome 2 and one case of a ring secondary to a paternal 2/6 translocation are described and compared with a fourth case of ring 2 from the literature. The breakpoints in two cases are identical and the same as the breakpoint on chromosome 2 in the composite 2/6 ring. The three primary rings have a number of symptoms in common, but other cases are needed to identify a possible deletion syndrome. The levels of the enzyme MDH-1 were within the normal range in Cases 1 and 2. Thus we localised the locus for MDH-1 to segment 2p23 leads to p25; this had previously been localised to segment p23 leads to pter.", "contents": "Three cases of ring chromosome 2, one derived from a paternal 2/6 translocation. Two cases of primary ring chromosome 2 and one case of a ring secondary to a paternal 2/6 translocation are described and compared with a fourth case of ring 2 from the literature. The breakpoints in two cases are identical and the same as the breakpoint on chromosome 2 in the composite 2/6 ring. The three primary rings have a number of symptoms in common, but other cases are needed to identify a possible deletion syndrome. The levels of the enzyme MDH-1 were within the normal range in Cases 1 and 2. Thus we localised the locus for MDH-1 to segment 2p23 leads to p25; this had previously been localised to segment p23 leads to pter.", "PMID": 457140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12520", "title": "Sex-linked inheritance of cleft palate.", "content": "A family pedigree is reported in which males in four generations are affected with midline isolated cleft palate. This is the second report of cleft palate inherited as a sex-linked recessive trait, and it emphasizes the importance of careful pedigree construction when counseling families of children afflicted with this disorder.", "contents": "Sex-linked inheritance of cleft palate. A family pedigree is reported in which males in four generations are affected with midline isolated cleft palate. This is the second report of cleft palate inherited as a sex-linked recessive trait, and it emphasizes the importance of careful pedigree construction when counseling families of children afflicted with this disorder.", "PMID": 457141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12521", "title": "Translocation of a supernumerary Y to a 15: study of six cases (three males and three females) in three generations.", "content": "We present a family in which six members (three males and three females) carry a translocation of the fluorescent part of a supernumerary Y to a 15. The carriers do not have any impairment of fertility or any malformation.", "contents": "Translocation of a supernumerary Y to a 15: study of six cases (three males and three females) in three generations. We present a family in which six members (three males and three females) carry a translocation of the fluorescent part of a supernumerary Y to a 15. The carriers do not have any impairment of fertility or any malformation.", "PMID": 457142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12522", "title": "Investigation of associations between ABO blood groups and coagulation, fibrinolysis, total lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides.", "content": "To investigate possible associations between ABO blood system and coagulability levels, fibrinolysis, total lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides, the plasma and serum of 300 Rh-positive male blood donors were tested. The tests performed were: RT, PTT, K-PTT, PT, F.V, F.II, F.VII, Complex II, VII, and X, TGT, fibrinogen, HAE 0.2, HAE 0.5, ELT, LIP, Col.1, Col.2 and TRI. Analysis of the laboratory data shows a lower coagulability in O blood group individuals. This result was obtained in coagulation tests (RT, PTT, and K-PTT) specific for factor VIII level. In addition, a higher sensitivity to the in vitro heparin anticoagulant effect in O group individuals was confirmed. Nevertheless, these conclusions are specific for Negroids, the same effects not being observed in Caucasians. None of the other laboratory tests revealed any differences related to either blood group or race.", "contents": "Investigation of associations between ABO blood groups and coagulation, fibrinolysis, total lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides. To investigate possible associations between ABO blood system and coagulability levels, fibrinolysis, total lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides, the plasma and serum of 300 Rh-positive male blood donors were tested. The tests performed were: RT, PTT, K-PTT, PT, F.V, F.II, F.VII, Complex II, VII, and X, TGT, fibrinogen, HAE 0.2, HAE 0.5, ELT, LIP, Col.1, Col.2 and TRI. Analysis of the laboratory data shows a lower coagulability in O blood group individuals. This result was obtained in coagulation tests (RT, PTT, and K-PTT) specific for factor VIII level. In addition, a higher sensitivity to the in vitro heparin anticoagulant effect in O group individuals was confirmed. Nevertheless, these conclusions are specific for Negroids, the same effects not being observed in Caucasians. None of the other laboratory tests revealed any differences related to either blood group or race.", "PMID": 457143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12523", "title": "The occurrence of DChi and new D and B transferrin variants among caste groups of Andhra Pradesh (S. India).", "content": "Serum samples from a total of 862 unrelated individuals belonging to seven Hindu endogamous caste groups residing in Hyderabad and Warangal cities of Andhra Pradesh were examined for electrophoretic variation of transferrin (Tf). In four caste groups, namely, Brahmin, Vysya, Padmashali, and Kapu, the Mongoloid genetic marker DChi was found, with polymorphic frequencies in Brahmin and Vysya groups. The two new D variants found in individuals of Madiga and Mudiraj castes were designated as DMadiga and DMudiraj. Similarly, two new B variants found in individuals of Goldsmith and Madiga castes were designated as BGoldsmith and BMadiga, respectively. These findings suggest a widespread transferrin variation in caste groups of Andhra Pradesh and in the tribal populations of this region.", "contents": "The occurrence of DChi and new D and B transferrin variants among caste groups of Andhra Pradesh (S. India). Serum samples from a total of 862 unrelated individuals belonging to seven Hindu endogamous caste groups residing in Hyderabad and Warangal cities of Andhra Pradesh were examined for electrophoretic variation of transferrin (Tf). In four caste groups, namely, Brahmin, Vysya, Padmashali, and Kapu, the Mongoloid genetic marker DChi was found, with polymorphic frequencies in Brahmin and Vysya groups. The two new D variants found in individuals of Madiga and Mudiraj castes were designated as DMadiga and DMudiraj. Similarly, two new B variants found in individuals of Goldsmith and Madiga castes were designated as BGoldsmith and BMadiga, respectively. These findings suggest a widespread transferrin variation in caste groups of Andhra Pradesh and in the tribal populations of this region.", "PMID": 457144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12524", "title": "Direct duplication 2p14 to 2p23.", "content": "A malformed male newborn was first diagnosed as having Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Extensive cytogenetic studies, including Q, G, C, R and T banding and BudR treatment, were applied, finally leading the authors to conclude that the patient had a partial 2p trisomy caused by direct duplication 2p14 to 2p23. This was a de novo chromosome abnormality, as both parents had normal karyotypes.", "contents": "Direct duplication 2p14 to 2p23. A malformed male newborn was first diagnosed as having Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Extensive cytogenetic studies, including Q, G, C, R and T banding and BudR treatment, were applied, finally leading the authors to conclude that the patient had a partial 2p trisomy caused by direct duplication 2p14 to 2p23. This was a de novo chromosome abnormality, as both parents had normal karyotypes.", "PMID": 457145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12525", "title": "Partial trisomy 13 as a result of de novo (6p;13q) translocation.", "content": "A newborn infant with the clinical features of the Patau syndrome was found to have excess chromosome 13 material present as a tandem translocation involving the short arm of chromosome 6 and the long arm of an extra chromosome 13: 46,XY,t(6;13)(p24;q12). The major part of the long arm of the extra chromosome 13 was attached linearly (tandem translocation) to the short arm of chromosome 6. Both parents were phenotypically and karyotypically normal.", "contents": "Partial trisomy 13 as a result of de novo (6p;13q) translocation. A newborn infant with the clinical features of the Patau syndrome was found to have excess chromosome 13 material present as a tandem translocation involving the short arm of chromosome 6 and the long arm of an extra chromosome 13: 46,XY,t(6;13)(p24;q12). The major part of the long arm of the extra chromosome 13 was attached linearly (tandem translocation) to the short arm of chromosome 6. Both parents were phenotypically and karyotypically normal.", "PMID": 457146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12526", "title": "Decision on the control of a dietary carcinogen -- aflatoxin.", "content": "The sequence of events is described whereby decisions are made by the scientific community and national or international legislative bodies in evaluating a dietary carcinogen. This is proposed on the basis of experience gained from the aflatoxins. Suspicion arose first after the deaths of large numbers of poultry and fish; the agent was soon identified as aflatoxins. This was followed by laboratory investigations of their toxic and carcinogenic effects in experimental animals, which showed them to be the most potent liver carcinogen known to experimentalists. Field studies were established to assess a possible association with liver-cell cancer in humans, and a significant correlation was found. An intervention programme was therefore set up to lower exposure and to observe the trend of cancer incidence. Aflatoxins are found in many cereals and nuts exposed to humidity; thus, the staple foods of most of the developing world are at risk. The severity of the economic problem for some countries if prejudice should continue to develop against peanuts as a basis for animal feeds is illustrated. Decisions about control of aflatoxins thus fall into two groups: control measures to prevent contaminated foods from reaching the populations of industrialized countries, and primary prevention for the millions in the developing world. Regulatory actions have been taken in various industrialized countries, but their effect is to make developing countries safeguard exports and still to ignore the hazard within the country. The main problem is thus protection of food supplies, for the indigenous populations of those countries that grow and consume the bulk of the susceptible cereals, by improved husbandry.", "contents": "Decision on the control of a dietary carcinogen -- aflatoxin. The sequence of events is described whereby decisions are made by the scientific community and national or international legislative bodies in evaluating a dietary carcinogen. This is proposed on the basis of experience gained from the aflatoxins. Suspicion arose first after the deaths of large numbers of poultry and fish; the agent was soon identified as aflatoxins. This was followed by laboratory investigations of their toxic and carcinogenic effects in experimental animals, which showed them to be the most potent liver carcinogen known to experimentalists. Field studies were established to assess a possible association with liver-cell cancer in humans, and a significant correlation was found. An intervention programme was therefore set up to lower exposure and to observe the trend of cancer incidence. Aflatoxins are found in many cereals and nuts exposed to humidity; thus, the staple foods of most of the developing world are at risk. The severity of the economic problem for some countries if prejudice should continue to develop against peanuts as a basis for animal feeds is illustrated. Decisions about control of aflatoxins thus fall into two groups: control measures to prevent contaminated foods from reaching the populations of industrialized countries, and primary prevention for the millions in the developing world. Regulatory actions have been taken in various industrialized countries, but their effect is to make developing countries safeguard exports and still to ignore the hazard within the country. The main problem is thus protection of food supplies, for the indigenous populations of those countries that grow and consume the bulk of the susceptible cereals, by improved husbandry.", "PMID": 457147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12527", "title": "Residues of carcinogenic animal drugs in food: difficulties in evaluation of human safety.", "content": "The indisputable need to intensify animal production in order to provide an adequate food supply for the world population involves the use of substances that are highly potent pharmacologically and toxicologically. The history of regulatory action with regard to such additives is similar to that for other substances: first, no regulation; next, an over-reaction; and now decisions based on judicious evaluation of scientific facts. One factor that differentiates the chemicals used in animal production from other food additives is that both the parent compounds and their metabolites appear in edible products, posing problems both for the analytical detection and safety evaluation of such residues. It would be unrealistic to propose 'zero' tolerances for these additives, even if they are carcinogenic. The benefits gained from drugs that cure and prevent infections and parasitic diseases in food-producing animals, and the fact that analytical methods can now detect very small quantities make the presence of low levels of these substances in food unobjectionable.", "contents": "Residues of carcinogenic animal drugs in food: difficulties in evaluation of human safety. The indisputable need to intensify animal production in order to provide an adequate food supply for the world population involves the use of substances that are highly potent pharmacologically and toxicologically. The history of regulatory action with regard to such additives is similar to that for other substances: first, no regulation; next, an over-reaction; and now decisions based on judicious evaluation of scientific facts. One factor that differentiates the chemicals used in animal production from other food additives is that both the parent compounds and their metabolites appear in edible products, posing problems both for the analytical detection and safety evaluation of such residues. It would be unrealistic to propose 'zero' tolerances for these additives, even if they are carcinogenic. The benefits gained from drugs that cure and prevent infections and parasitic diseases in food-producing animals, and the fact that analytical methods can now detect very small quantities make the presence of low levels of these substances in food unobjectionable.", "PMID": 457148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12528", "title": "Carcinogenic risk of products used in the pharmaceutical and related industries.", "content": "The pharmaceutical industry is perhaps most subject to rules and regulations in the majority of countries. Legislation in France in this regard is flexible and relatively easily adaptable; in addition, the pharmaceutical industry has established its own ground rules. One of these requires that a product be harmless under normal conditions of use; carcinogenicity checks are only mandatory under certain conditions. If they were to be made compulsory, a less unwieldy test system would be required. The use to which a product is put should be taken into consideration in regulating it.", "contents": "Carcinogenic risk of products used in the pharmaceutical and related industries. The pharmaceutical industry is perhaps most subject to rules and regulations in the majority of countries. Legislation in France in this regard is flexible and relatively easily adaptable; in addition, the pharmaceutical industry has established its own ground rules. One of these requires that a product be harmless under normal conditions of use; carcinogenicity checks are only mandatory under certain conditions. If they were to be made compulsory, a less unwieldy test system would be required. The use to which a product is put should be taken into consideration in regulating it.", "PMID": 457149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12529", "title": "Review of pesticide carcinogenesis data and regulatory approaches.", "content": "Carcinogenicity data are presented for compounds used as pesticides which have been evaluated in the IARC Monograph series. These pesticides have been both poorly and scantily tested for carcinogenicity. Additional tests have been carried out under the NCI Carcinogenesis Program, and detailed results of the bioassays are published in the NCI Carcinogenesis Technical Report Series. A prpcedure was developed whereby 'preliminary reports' could be made in the Federal Register. In the second part of the paper, regulatory approaches to pesticides are described. International activities are outlined; and examples are given of factors, such as public concern, scientific work and governmental response, which are highlights in the development of approaches to such regulations. The problem of risk assessment has been approached from many sides but remains largely unsolved. Besides risks and benefits, an essential component in evaluation is the analysis of technological alternatives. Two other factors are public documentation of the process of evaluation and registration of environmental carcinogens and their uses. Reduction of exposure to environmental carcinogens to a 'minimum feasible level' depends on social, economic and temporal factors and implies the acceptance of a finite level of risk.", "contents": "Review of pesticide carcinogenesis data and regulatory approaches. Carcinogenicity data are presented for compounds used as pesticides which have been evaluated in the IARC Monograph series. These pesticides have been both poorly and scantily tested for carcinogenicity. Additional tests have been carried out under the NCI Carcinogenesis Program, and detailed results of the bioassays are published in the NCI Carcinogenesis Technical Report Series. A prpcedure was developed whereby 'preliminary reports' could be made in the Federal Register. In the second part of the paper, regulatory approaches to pesticides are described. International activities are outlined; and examples are given of factors, such as public concern, scientific work and governmental response, which are highlights in the development of approaches to such regulations. The problem of risk assessment has been approached from many sides but remains largely unsolved. Besides risks and benefits, an essential component in evaluation is the analysis of technological alternatives. Two other factors are public documentation of the process of evaluation and registration of environmental carcinogens and their uses. Reduction of exposure to environmental carcinogens to a 'minimum feasible level' depends on social, economic and temporal factors and implies the acceptance of a finite level of risk.", "PMID": 457150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12530", "title": "Research related to the herbicide buvinol, especially for possible carcinogenicity.", "content": "The Budapest Chemical Works (Hungary) has conducted a study on a new herbicide called 'Buvinol', containing 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyethanol (TCPE). In long-term carcinogenicity testing, the oral administration of the maximum tolerated dose of TCPE (70 mg/kg), containing 0.1 ppm 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin, increased the incidence of liver tumours in male mice, while smaller doses (1/10 and 1/100) did not. Dioxin in the dose range used (0.1--10 ppm) did not influence tumour frequency. Exposure of workers to TCPE during its production or use should be controlled and reduced.", "contents": "Research related to the herbicide buvinol, especially for possible carcinogenicity. The Budapest Chemical Works (Hungary) has conducted a study on a new herbicide called 'Buvinol', containing 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyethanol (TCPE). In long-term carcinogenicity testing, the oral administration of the maximum tolerated dose of TCPE (70 mg/kg), containing 0.1 ppm 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin, increased the incidence of liver tumours in male mice, while smaller doses (1/10 and 1/100) did not. Dioxin in the dose range used (0.1--10 ppm) did not influence tumour frequency. Exposure of workers to TCPE during its production or use should be controlled and reduced.", "PMID": 457151} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12531", "title": "The role of laboratory animal studies in estimating carcinogenic risks for man.", "content": "The extent to which biological processes predict those in humans is discussed and illustrated by analysis of data presented in the first 16 volumes of the IARC Monograph series. Other examples are given to show that if there is sufficient evidence that a chemical is carcinogenic in appropriate animal test systems it must be treated as if it were carcinogenic in humans. A quantitative correlation between data in animals and in humans is more difficult to establish, although there is tentative evidence that such a relationship exists. Society should attempt to keep 'inevitable' exposures to carcinogens to a minimum; social need should be balanced against social risk. Biomedical research can help to estimate this role.", "contents": "The role of laboratory animal studies in estimating carcinogenic risks for man. The extent to which biological processes predict those in humans is discussed and illustrated by analysis of data presented in the first 16 volumes of the IARC Monograph series. Other examples are given to show that if there is sufficient evidence that a chemical is carcinogenic in appropriate animal test systems it must be treated as if it were carcinogenic in humans. A quantitative correlation between data in animals and in humans is more difficult to establish, although there is tentative evidence that such a relationship exists. Society should attempt to keep 'inevitable' exposures to carcinogens to a minimum; social need should be balanced against social risk. Biomedical research can help to estimate this role.", "PMID": 457152} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12532", "title": "An overview of the problem of thresholds for chemical carcinogens.", "content": "Toxicological evaluation in quantitative terms of substances that have been shown to be carcinogenic is very difficult, mainly because, for the great majority of environmental carcinogenic chemicals, the available data, both from experimental studies in animals and from epidemiological studies in humans, on dose-effect relationships, especially at low levels, are very limited. There is an urgent need for research in this area. At present, the most sensible approach is to try to determine no-effect levels by long-term investigation of the effects of low levels in animal species that are most similar to man in their metabolic potential and their sensitivity. Very low safety factors (2500 to 5000) should be applied to the values thus obtained, in order to be as far as possible on the safe side in establishing pragmatically acceptable limits. At present, since all chemical carcinogens pose a hazard, human exposure to them must be reduced to the feasible minimum.", "contents": "An overview of the problem of thresholds for chemical carcinogens. Toxicological evaluation in quantitative terms of substances that have been shown to be carcinogenic is very difficult, mainly because, for the great majority of environmental carcinogenic chemicals, the available data, both from experimental studies in animals and from epidemiological studies in humans, on dose-effect relationships, especially at low levels, are very limited. There is an urgent need for research in this area. At present, the most sensible approach is to try to determine no-effect levels by long-term investigation of the effects of low levels in animal species that are most similar to man in their metabolic potential and their sensitivity. Very low safety factors (2500 to 5000) should be applied to the values thus obtained, in order to be as far as possible on the safe side in establishing pragmatically acceptable limits. At present, since all chemical carcinogens pose a hazard, human exposure to them must be reduced to the feasible minimum.", "PMID": 457153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12533", "title": "'Human' and 'animal' carcinogens.", "content": "A clarification is made of the meanings of the terms 'human carcinogen' and 'animal carcinogen' in cancer research, cancer prevention and legislative actions. A chemical proven to have carcinogenic activity in animals should be considered to represent a risk to humans. However, non-experts tend to consider that 'animal carcinogens' produce cancer only in animals and can be neglected with regard to the human situation. The use of these terms should thus be avoided or they should be used as standard terms based on generally accepted and available definitions.", "contents": "'Human' and 'animal' carcinogens. A clarification is made of the meanings of the terms 'human carcinogen' and 'animal carcinogen' in cancer research, cancer prevention and legislative actions. A chemical proven to have carcinogenic activity in animals should be considered to represent a risk to humans. However, non-experts tend to consider that 'animal carcinogens' produce cancer only in animals and can be neglected with regard to the human situation. The use of these terms should thus be avoided or they should be used as standard terms based on generally accepted and available definitions.", "PMID": 457154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12534", "title": "Anti-smoking legislation in Finland.", "content": "The act which outlined measures for restricting tobacco smoking in Finland took effect on 1 March 1977. This act is presented and its background described. The main regulations provided by the law are: 1) Health authorities administer all tobacco regulation, except taxation; 2) 5% of tobacco taxes are alloted annually to health education research and evaluation; 3) advertising and promotion of tobacco are prohibited; 4) limits on tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide are set by the government; these must be met for a permit to be granted; 5) tobacco products are quality controlled; 6) cigarette packets must bear health warnings; 7) no tobacco products may be sold to persons under sixteen years; 8) they may be sold only from supervised dispensing machines; 9) smoking is prohibited in all public areas, including transport; 10) the Board of Health administers nation-wide education measures. With regard to the latter regulation, some past and projected programmes are described. Initial results of the campaign were limited; further support from taxation and a pricing policy is necessary.", "contents": "Anti-smoking legislation in Finland. The act which outlined measures for restricting tobacco smoking in Finland took effect on 1 March 1977. This act is presented and its background described. The main regulations provided by the law are: 1) Health authorities administer all tobacco regulation, except taxation; 2) 5% of tobacco taxes are alloted annually to health education research and evaluation; 3) advertising and promotion of tobacco are prohibited; 4) limits on tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide are set by the government; these must be met for a permit to be granted; 5) tobacco products are quality controlled; 6) cigarette packets must bear health warnings; 7) no tobacco products may be sold to persons under sixteen years; 8) they may be sold only from supervised dispensing machines; 9) smoking is prohibited in all public areas, including transport; 10) the Board of Health administers nation-wide education measures. With regard to the latter regulation, some past and projected programmes are described. Initial results of the campaign were limited; further support from taxation and a pricing policy is necessary.", "PMID": 457155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12535", "title": "alpha, beta Mannitone, a new industrial material with unknown benefits and risks.", "content": "The example is given of a new, incompletely characterized material about which information is currently incomplete. alpha, beta-Mannitone is made from old automobile tires by a secret process; it is not known whether worker exposure will occur during its production; and it is proposed for use as a substitute for petrol. The risks and benefits of this hypothetical substance must be weighed. The problems associated with such an evaluation are listed in the form of questions.", "contents": "alpha, beta Mannitone, a new industrial material with unknown benefits and risks. The example is given of a new, incompletely characterized material about which information is currently incomplete. alpha, beta-Mannitone is made from old automobile tires by a secret process; it is not known whether worker exposure will occur during its production; and it is proposed for use as a substitute for petrol. The risks and benefits of this hypothetical substance must be weighed. The problems associated with such an evaluation are listed in the form of questions.", "PMID": 457157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12536", "title": "Legal forms of intervention against carcinogenic risks.", "content": "The place of jurists in the formulation of regulations against carcinogenic risks is at the end of a long chain forged by interdisciplinary cooperation. Legal processes for intervention can be brought about in a number of ways: 1) Civil actions; 3) compensation; 3) preventive regulations; 4) regulations specific to the product, its production or its use; 5) institutions to provide surveillance of application of the regulation, for emergency interventions, sanctions against offenders, appeal bodies and flexibility; 6) international cooperation; 7) international trade agreements; 8) formulation of international regulations; 9) use of existing international regulations; 10) development of international rules for testing new products; 11) reference to existing regulation.", "contents": "Legal forms of intervention against carcinogenic risks. The place of jurists in the formulation of regulations against carcinogenic risks is at the end of a long chain forged by interdisciplinary cooperation. Legal processes for intervention can be brought about in a number of ways: 1) Civil actions; 3) compensation; 3) preventive regulations; 4) regulations specific to the product, its production or its use; 5) institutions to provide surveillance of application of the regulation, for emergency interventions, sanctions against offenders, appeal bodies and flexibility; 6) international cooperation; 7) international trade agreements; 8) formulation of international regulations; 9) use of existing international regulations; 10) development of international rules for testing new products; 11) reference to existing regulation.", "PMID": 457158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12537", "title": "The Clearinghouse for Environmental Carcinogens of the National Cancer Institute, USA.", "content": "The NCI Clearinghouse for Environmental Carcinogens acts as an advisory body to the Carcinogenesis Testing Program of that Institute. It consists of 30 members, from academic institutions, labour organizations, consumer groups and industry. They are divided into three groups: the Chemical Selection group establishes priorities for compounds to be tested; the Experimental Design group decides on the test procedures and parameters to be used; and the Data Evaluation/Risk Assessment group review data from completed tests, for deficiencies in experimental design or conduct, the nature of the lesions produced and the statistical analysis of the results, and gives a critical opinion of the test.", "contents": "The Clearinghouse for Environmental Carcinogens of the National Cancer Institute, USA. The NCI Clearinghouse for Environmental Carcinogens acts as an advisory body to the Carcinogenesis Testing Program of that Institute. It consists of 30 members, from academic institutions, labour organizations, consumer groups and industry. They are divided into three groups: the Chemical Selection group establishes priorities for compounds to be tested; the Experimental Design group decides on the test procedures and parameters to be used; and the Data Evaluation/Risk Assessment group review data from completed tests, for deficiencies in experimental design or conduct, the nature of the lesions produced and the statistical analysis of the results, and gives a critical opinion of the test.", "PMID": 457159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12538", "title": "Techniques in intervention against carcinogenic hazards.", "content": "The principal techniques for the control of carcinogenic hazards are described. A sense of responsibility must be encouraged in the groups of people who are involved, such as manufacturers, importers, retailers or distributers. Relevant, evaluated information from the scientific community must be brought to the attention of responsible bodies in a systematic way. Information about sources of emission, pathways of spread and identification of populations at risk is essential. Estimates must be made of costs and benefits, whether tangible or intangible. Mechanisms of intervention are described, including registration, authorization, permission, notification and dissemination of information. Mechanisms of risk surveillance involve the monitoring of health indices and of exposure situations: techniques of data collection are outlined. It is important that such data be both accessible for evaluation by authorized persons and at the same time remain confidential. Education is basic to cancer prevention. National and international coordination is essential. The paper concludes with a list of areas in which strategies and techniques should be developed.", "contents": "Techniques in intervention against carcinogenic hazards. The principal techniques for the control of carcinogenic hazards are described. A sense of responsibility must be encouraged in the groups of people who are involved, such as manufacturers, importers, retailers or distributers. Relevant, evaluated information from the scientific community must be brought to the attention of responsible bodies in a systematic way. Information about sources of emission, pathways of spread and identification of populations at risk is essential. Estimates must be made of costs and benefits, whether tangible or intangible. Mechanisms of intervention are described, including registration, authorization, permission, notification and dissemination of information. Mechanisms of risk surveillance involve the monitoring of health indices and of exposure situations: techniques of data collection are outlined. It is important that such data be both accessible for evaluation by authorized persons and at the same time remain confidential. Education is basic to cancer prevention. National and international coordination is essential. The paper concludes with a list of areas in which strategies and techniques should be developed.", "PMID": 457160} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12539", "title": "Implementation of regulations and promotion of standards for protective measures in the absence of statutory regulations.", "content": "Asbestos regulations in the UK and several other countries are described, and it is suggested that these could be used as a basis for similar regulations in other countries which do not yet have them. Those aspects of the UK regulations which make them particularly applicable to all occupational situations in which asbestos dust might be emitted are listed. As a result of such regulations, standards of control have improved; two examples are given.", "contents": "Implementation of regulations and promotion of standards for protective measures in the absence of statutory regulations. Asbestos regulations in the UK and several other countries are described, and it is suggested that these could be used as a basis for similar regulations in other countries which do not yet have them. Those aspects of the UK regulations which make them particularly applicable to all occupational situations in which asbestos dust might be emitted are listed. As a result of such regulations, standards of control have improved; two examples are given.", "PMID": 457165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12540", "title": "Assessment of trichloroethylene as an occupational carcinogen.", "content": "The reaction is described of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the US to the results of experimental studies which showed that tetrachlorethylene is carcinogenic. Parallels are given with vinyl chloride, which it resembles structurally. The main occupational exposure to trichloroethylene is in the vapour degreasing of metal parts. The machine used for this activity is described, and it is shown that there is a high potential exposure. Possible control measures are outlined. The main evidence for the potential carcinogenicity of trichloroethylene is the occurrence of its epoxide as an intermediate in its metabolism to chloroethanol; species differences have been observed. Epdemiological studies have so far been inconclusive. NIOSH decided that trichloroethylene is potentially carcinogenic in the workplace, but only weakly so. No new standard has been recommended, although a lowering of the present standard is recommended.", "contents": "Assessment of trichloroethylene as an occupational carcinogen. The reaction is described of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the US to the results of experimental studies which showed that tetrachlorethylene is carcinogenic. Parallels are given with vinyl chloride, which it resembles structurally. The main occupational exposure to trichloroethylene is in the vapour degreasing of metal parts. The machine used for this activity is described, and it is shown that there is a high potential exposure. Possible control measures are outlined. The main evidence for the potential carcinogenicity of trichloroethylene is the occurrence of its epoxide as an intermediate in its metabolism to chloroethanol; species differences have been observed. Epdemiological studies have so far been inconclusive. NIOSH decided that trichloroethylene is potentially carcinogenic in the workplace, but only weakly so. No new standard has been recommended, although a lowering of the present standard is recommended.", "PMID": 457166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12541", "title": "Implications of health and safety legislation.", "content": "The UK Health and Safety at Work Act is described; the duties of the employer, including manufacturers, importers and suppliers, and of the employee for health and safety are laid down. This Act provides the necessary legislative framework for the control of carcinogenic, mutagenic and other health hazards at work. Proposed regulations dealing specifically with carcinogenic substances and with the notification of toxic properties will add strength to these general provisions. The implementation of the new regulations will be the responsibility of the Health and Safety Commission, advised by an expert subcommittee. Ad hoc decisions about handling known and suspected carcinogens are made in consultation with employers and employees. For practical purposes, there must be working limits for carcinogens; zero levels and 'lowest levels of detection' are impracticable. The difficulties of defining the criteria by which substances are judged to be carcinogenic to humans are outlined. Science plays only one part in decision-making, and final decisions depend also on social and economic needs.", "contents": "Implications of health and safety legislation. The UK Health and Safety at Work Act is described; the duties of the employer, including manufacturers, importers and suppliers, and of the employee for health and safety are laid down. This Act provides the necessary legislative framework for the control of carcinogenic, mutagenic and other health hazards at work. Proposed regulations dealing specifically with carcinogenic substances and with the notification of toxic properties will add strength to these general provisions. The implementation of the new regulations will be the responsibility of the Health and Safety Commission, advised by an expert subcommittee. Ad hoc decisions about handling known and suspected carcinogens are made in consultation with employers and employees. For practical purposes, there must be working limits for carcinogens; zero levels and 'lowest levels of detection' are impracticable. The difficulties of defining the criteria by which substances are judged to be carcinogenic to humans are outlined. Science plays only one part in decision-making, and final decisions depend also on social and economic needs.", "PMID": 457167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12542", "title": "Tobacco--current French legislation.", "content": "A recent French campaign to bring about a reduction in tobacco consumption is described. A number of factors were used to convince the public that smoking is dangerous: it was pointed out that, of all cancers, those in which tobacco plays an important role are increasing the most rapidly; another is that smoking reduces life expectancy. A study of the smoking habit in France showed that it is acquired earlier and earlier; another study showed that 60,000 deaths a year can be linked to smoking; the cost of medical services related to smoking was calculated to be 22 thousand million francs. By comparison, the budget of the anti-smoking campaign was 3 million francs, but this was sufficient to reduce the risk by 7%. The second objective of the programme was to give non-smokers the possibility to assert their rights. The main target of the campaign was young people. The social pressure on them to begin smoking could be reduced if the number of smokers were reduced, if non-smokers asserted their rights and if the image of the smoker were debunked. The campaign was supported by anti-smoking legislation which came into effect in July 1976. Smaller campaigns were planned to follow annually. The main targets of the law were advertising and publicity; in addition, smoking was prohibited in public places, public means of transport and educational establishments. The effectiveness of the campaign was measured by sampling changes in behaviour and in sales volume: there was a 5% decrease in the number of smokers and a 15% decrease in consumption of those who continued to smoke.", "contents": "Tobacco--current French legislation. A recent French campaign to bring about a reduction in tobacco consumption is described. A number of factors were used to convince the public that smoking is dangerous: it was pointed out that, of all cancers, those in which tobacco plays an important role are increasing the most rapidly; another is that smoking reduces life expectancy. A study of the smoking habit in France showed that it is acquired earlier and earlier; another study showed that 60,000 deaths a year can be linked to smoking; the cost of medical services related to smoking was calculated to be 22 thousand million francs. By comparison, the budget of the anti-smoking campaign was 3 million francs, but this was sufficient to reduce the risk by 7%. The second objective of the programme was to give non-smokers the possibility to assert their rights. The main target of the campaign was young people. The social pressure on them to begin smoking could be reduced if the number of smokers were reduced, if non-smokers asserted their rights and if the image of the smoker were debunked. The campaign was supported by anti-smoking legislation which came into effect in July 1976. Smaller campaigns were planned to follow annually. The main targets of the law were advertising and publicity; in addition, smoking was prohibited in public places, public means of transport and educational establishments. The effectiveness of the campaign was measured by sampling changes in behaviour and in sales volume: there was a 5% decrease in the number of smokers and a 15% decrease in consumption of those who continued to smoke.", "PMID": 457169} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12543", "title": "Regulation of carcinogenic food additives and drugs in the US.", "content": "The four components of the process by which a decision is made about the acceptability of human exposure to a chemical are outlined. The quantity and quality of the data that are required have increased considerably in recent years, and the standards governing the conduct of the studies done to obtain them have become more stringent. Thus, many chemicals now in widespread use were admitted on the basis of evidence that is now considered woefully inadequate; the steps being taken in the US to remedy this situation are described. Since such testing is long and expensive, four regulatory agencies have joined together to develop guidelines that can be used by each. The interpretation of data presents yet another problem. Further, what constitutes adequate evidence for safety is a matter subject to wide ranges of opinion: this is illustrated by the example of cyclamate. The difficulties of extrapolating results to actual situations are outlined; and the limitations of the usefulness of experimental testing are pointed out. Determination of an acceptable ratio between benefits and risks depends on a wide variety of factors, and regulatory decisions in this regard thus depend on several kinds of scientific judgements and on policy decisions based on cultural aspects.", "contents": "Regulation of carcinogenic food additives and drugs in the US. The four components of the process by which a decision is made about the acceptability of human exposure to a chemical are outlined. The quantity and quality of the data that are required have increased considerably in recent years, and the standards governing the conduct of the studies done to obtain them have become more stringent. Thus, many chemicals now in widespread use were admitted on the basis of evidence that is now considered woefully inadequate; the steps being taken in the US to remedy this situation are described. Since such testing is long and expensive, four regulatory agencies have joined together to develop guidelines that can be used by each. The interpretation of data presents yet another problem. Further, what constitutes adequate evidence for safety is a matter subject to wide ranges of opinion: this is illustrated by the example of cyclamate. The difficulties of extrapolating results to actual situations are outlined; and the limitations of the usefulness of experimental testing are pointed out. Determination of an acceptable ratio between benefits and risks depends on a wide variety of factors, and regulatory decisions in this regard thus depend on several kinds of scientific judgements and on policy decisions based on cultural aspects.", "PMID": 457170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12544", "title": "Effects of some antibiotics on the growth of human diploid skin fibroblasts in cell culture.", "content": "During serial subcultures 50 micrograms per ml gentamicin and penicillin (100 U per ml)-streptomycin (100 micrograms per ml) depressed cell growth signficantly 2 weeks after the addition of the antibiotics; gentamicin, but not penicillin-streptomycin, stimulated cell growth before it became inhibitory. Removal of the antibiotics resulted in the cell yield returning to normal. The results show that these antibiotics can be harmful to cells even at concentrations thought to be safe.", "contents": "Effects of some antibiotics on the growth of human diploid skin fibroblasts in cell culture. During serial subcultures 50 micrograms per ml gentamicin and penicillin (100 U per ml)-streptomycin (100 micrograms per ml) depressed cell growth signficantly 2 weeks after the addition of the antibiotics; gentamicin, but not penicillin-streptomycin, stimulated cell growth before it became inhibitory. Removal of the antibiotics resulted in the cell yield returning to normal. The results show that these antibiotics can be harmful to cells even at concentrations thought to be safe.", "PMID": 457178} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12545", "title": "Differentiation in human amniotic fluid cell cultures: chorionic gonadotropin production.", "content": "Two of the distinguishable cell classes subcultured from human amniotic fluid were examined for their capability to produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as determined by radioimmunoassay. The class that predominates in most cultures used for prenatal genetic diagnosis, previously termed AF (for amniotic fluid), secretes hCG into the culture medium. Dermal fibroblasts do not, nor does another type of cultured cell from amniotic fluid, previously termed F because of a resemblance to fibroblasts. Primary AF cultures produce more hCG than do subcultures. Evidence that this hormone is intact hCG is provided by its immunoreactivity with antisera raised against the beta-subunit and against the intact molecule of hCG. Furthermore, a dose-response curve for hormone in culture medium is parallel to that of highly purified intact hCG. It is postulated that AF cultures are derived from fetal membranes and retain properties of trophoblast.", "contents": "Differentiation in human amniotic fluid cell cultures: chorionic gonadotropin production. Two of the distinguishable cell classes subcultured from human amniotic fluid were examined for their capability to produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as determined by radioimmunoassay. The class that predominates in most cultures used for prenatal genetic diagnosis, previously termed AF (for amniotic fluid), secretes hCG into the culture medium. Dermal fibroblasts do not, nor does another type of cultured cell from amniotic fluid, previously termed F because of a resemblance to fibroblasts. Primary AF cultures produce more hCG than do subcultures. Evidence that this hormone is intact hCG is provided by its immunoreactivity with antisera raised against the beta-subunit and against the intact molecule of hCG. Furthermore, a dose-response curve for hormone in culture medium is parallel to that of highly purified intact hCG. It is postulated that AF cultures are derived from fetal membranes and retain properties of trophoblast.", "PMID": 457179} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12546", "title": "Factors influencing microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasma.", "content": "A total of 6432 cell cultures was assayed for mycoplasmas over a 6-year period by aerobic and anaerobic incubation of agar and broth media. Mycoplasmas were detected in 375 cultures (5.8%). M. orale and A. laidlawii accounted for 61.3% of the isolates. Anaerobic incubation detected 98.1% of the isolates; aeorbic incubation detected 45.8%. Of factors studied to determine their effect on mycoplasma assay, only two, anaerobic incubation and presence of mycoplasmacidal/static antibiotics, were significant. In separate studies, 86 of 2656 cell cultures (3.2%) were infected with strains of M. hyorhinis that did not grow on cell-free media. Recommendations are given for microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasmas.", "contents": "Factors influencing microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasma. A total of 6432 cell cultures was assayed for mycoplasmas over a 6-year period by aerobic and anaerobic incubation of agar and broth media. Mycoplasmas were detected in 375 cultures (5.8%). M. orale and A. laidlawii accounted for 61.3% of the isolates. Anaerobic incubation detected 98.1% of the isolates; aeorbic incubation detected 45.8%. Of factors studied to determine their effect on mycoplasma assay, only two, anaerobic incubation and presence of mycoplasmacidal/static antibiotics, were significant. In separate studies, 86 of 2656 cell cultures (3.2%) were infected with strains of M. hyorhinis that did not grow on cell-free media. Recommendations are given for microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasmas.", "PMID": 457180} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12547", "title": "Rimantadine but not amantadine protects Fischer rat embryo cells from transformation induced by 3-methylcholanthrene or benzo(a)pyrene.", "content": "The antiviral drugs amantadine hydrochloride and rimantadine hydrochloride were tested as to their oncogenic potential using a serial line of Fischer rat embryo cells that previously had been shown to be an accurate indicator of chemicals known to be oncogenic in animal studies. Neither compound was found to have transforming activity. At slightly toxic levels, rimanbadine hydrochloride, but not amantadine hydrochloride, protected the same cell line from the transformation induced by the polycyclic hydrocarbons 3-methylcholanthrene and benzo(a)pyrene.", "contents": "Rimantadine but not amantadine protects Fischer rat embryo cells from transformation induced by 3-methylcholanthrene or benzo(a)pyrene. The antiviral drugs amantadine hydrochloride and rimantadine hydrochloride were tested as to their oncogenic potential using a serial line of Fischer rat embryo cells that previously had been shown to be an accurate indicator of chemicals known to be oncogenic in animal studies. Neither compound was found to have transforming activity. At slightly toxic levels, rimanbadine hydrochloride, but not amantadine hydrochloride, protected the same cell line from the transformation induced by the polycyclic hydrocarbons 3-methylcholanthrene and benzo(a)pyrene.", "PMID": 457181} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12548", "title": "The development of mouse spinal cord in tissue culture. I. Cultures of whole mouse embryos and spinal-cord primordia.", "content": "Whole mouse embryos were grown in vitro from Theiler stage 12 (1 to 7 somites) to Theiler stages 15 and 16 (25 to 35 somites). This procedure gives experimental access to precisely staged embryos during the early period of neurogenesis. To follow the further development of neurons in vitro, fragments of spinal primordia were set up from these cultured embryos. In such cultures, the proliferation of precursor cells, the formation of postmitotic cells, and, finally, the cytodifferentiation of neurons were observed.", "contents": "The development of mouse spinal cord in tissue culture. I. Cultures of whole mouse embryos and spinal-cord primordia. Whole mouse embryos were grown in vitro from Theiler stage 12 (1 to 7 somites) to Theiler stages 15 and 16 (25 to 35 somites). This procedure gives experimental access to precisely staged embryos during the early period of neurogenesis. To follow the further development of neurons in vitro, fragments of spinal primordia were set up from these cultured embryos. In such cultures, the proliferation of precursor cells, the formation of postmitotic cells, and, finally, the cytodifferentiation of neurons were observed.", "PMID": 457182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12549", "title": "In vitro migration of epidermal cells in suction blisters of rat skin.", "content": "Wounds of the external ear of the rat created by suction were carried in vitro up to 48 hr, and the growth of epidermal cells was observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Epidermal cells migrated on the intact basal lamina taking origin from the surrounding uninjured epidermis and from the external root sheaths of hair follicles. The time required to form a confluent layer of cells was much shorter than that observed earlier in intact blisters under in vivo conditions. This model offers promise for the further study of the migration of epithelial cells.", "contents": "In vitro migration of epidermal cells in suction blisters of rat skin. Wounds of the external ear of the rat created by suction were carried in vitro up to 48 hr, and the growth of epidermal cells was observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Epidermal cells migrated on the intact basal lamina taking origin from the surrounding uninjured epidermis and from the external root sheaths of hair follicles. The time required to form a confluent layer of cells was much shorter than that observed earlier in intact blisters under in vivo conditions. This model offers promise for the further study of the migration of epithelial cells.", "PMID": 457183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12550", "title": "Organ culture of adult mouse intestine. II. Mitotic activity, DNA synthesis and cellular migration after 24 and 48 hours of culture.", "content": "DNA synthesis, mitotic activity and cell migration have been measured in organ culture of adult mouse jejunum during the first 48 hr. Explants cultured in DMEM-HEPES-NCTC-135 medium present a sharp decrease of mitotic activity in the first hours of culture, but mitoses are restored to 80% of the controls between 24 and 48 hr. DNA synthesis follows the same pattern. Cell migration continues during culture.", "contents": "Organ culture of adult mouse intestine. II. Mitotic activity, DNA synthesis and cellular migration after 24 and 48 hours of culture. DNA synthesis, mitotic activity and cell migration have been measured in organ culture of adult mouse jejunum during the first 48 hr. Explants cultured in DMEM-HEPES-NCTC-135 medium present a sharp decrease of mitotic activity in the first hours of culture, but mitoses are restored to 80% of the controls between 24 and 48 hr. DNA synthesis follows the same pattern. Cell migration continues during culture.", "PMID": 457184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12551", "title": "Organ culture of adult mouse intestine. III. Behavior of the proteins, DNA content and brush border membrane enzymatic activities.", "content": "The proteins, the DNA content and the brush border membrane enzyme activities of adult mouse intestinal explants have been measured during a 24-hr organ culture. These activities were not modified in comparison with the controls at the beginning of the culture. The activity of the enzymes secreted in the medium during the 24-hr culture was equal to the activity present in the explants at the start of the culture. These results show that several metabolic functions of the intestine are fully preserved in organ culture.", "contents": "Organ culture of adult mouse intestine. III. Behavior of the proteins, DNA content and brush border membrane enzymatic activities. The proteins, the DNA content and the brush border membrane enzyme activities of adult mouse intestinal explants have been measured during a 24-hr organ culture. These activities were not modified in comparison with the controls at the beginning of the culture. The activity of the enzymes secreted in the medium during the 24-hr culture was equal to the activity present in the explants at the start of the culture. These results show that several metabolic functions of the intestine are fully preserved in organ culture.", "PMID": 457185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12552", "title": "[The mycoplasma-pneumonia. A model for the study of the pathogenesis of infectious diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "The known mechanisms of pathogenicity of Mycoplasma pneumoniae are discussed. In addition, evidence is provided for the participation of the immune system in the pathogenesis of M. pneumoniae disease. In a working hypothesis the stimulation of a protective and/or a reactive immune response is postulated, depending on the predisposition of the host, the infecting dose, the frequency of contact and the virulence of the organisms. Because well studied animal models are available, the Mycoplasma-Pneumonia is well suited to investigate the pathogenesis of infections caused by bacteria and the defense of the host.", "contents": "[The mycoplasma-pneumonia. A model for the study of the pathogenesis of infectious diseases (author's transl)]. The known mechanisms of pathogenicity of Mycoplasma pneumoniae are discussed. In addition, evidence is provided for the participation of the immune system in the pathogenesis of M. pneumoniae disease. In a working hypothesis the stimulation of a protective and/or a reactive immune response is postulated, depending on the predisposition of the host, the infecting dose, the frequency of contact and the virulence of the organisms. Because well studied animal models are available, the Mycoplasma-Pneumonia is well suited to investigate the pathogenesis of infections caused by bacteria and the defense of the host.", "PMID": 457187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12553", "title": "[Phagocytic-activity in high risk patients of a surgical intensive care unit (author's transl)].", "content": "The in vitro phagocytic activity from PMNL against eight different Klebsiella strains, isolated from clinical material, was investigated and the K-index calculated for fifteen patients from a surgical intensive care unit. The hemagglutinating antibody titers against the test strains, as well as the serum concentrations of IgM, IgG, C3 and C4 were also determined. At the time of the investigation all patients had symptoms of a severe general infection. There could be no decrease in the phagocytic activity demonstrated. However, large variations against certain bacterial strains were observed. This same strain dependency was also observed for five healthy persons. The hemagglutinating antibody titers of any one patient were either generally increased for all strains or uniformly decreased. The serum concentrations of IgM, IgG, C3 and C4 were found to be, in general, within the normal large.", "contents": "[Phagocytic-activity in high risk patients of a surgical intensive care unit (author's transl)]. The in vitro phagocytic activity from PMNL against eight different Klebsiella strains, isolated from clinical material, was investigated and the K-index calculated for fifteen patients from a surgical intensive care unit. The hemagglutinating antibody titers against the test strains, as well as the serum concentrations of IgM, IgG, C3 and C4 were also determined. At the time of the investigation all patients had symptoms of a severe general infection. There could be no decrease in the phagocytic activity demonstrated. However, large variations against certain bacterial strains were observed. This same strain dependency was also observed for five healthy persons. The hemagglutinating antibody titers of any one patient were either generally increased for all strains or uniformly decreased. The serum concentrations of IgM, IgG, C3 and C4 were found to be, in general, within the normal large.", "PMID": 457188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12554", "title": "[Cefoxitin and cefuroxim concentrations after intravenous administration in sputum of patients with chronic bronchitis (author's transl)].", "content": "On 24 patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis the Cefuroxim and Cefoxitin concentrations in the sputum were investigated during 11 days after intravenous injections. The concentrations of Cefuroxim were above the minimal concentrations necessary to block growing of bacteria. Cefoxitin showed lower concentrations. Different pharmacokinetics for both of the test substances may be responsible for the different results.", "contents": "[Cefoxitin and cefuroxim concentrations after intravenous administration in sputum of patients with chronic bronchitis (author's transl)]. On 24 patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis the Cefuroxim and Cefoxitin concentrations in the sputum were investigated during 11 days after intravenous injections. The concentrations of Cefuroxim were above the minimal concentrations necessary to block growing of bacteria. Cefoxitin showed lower concentrations. Different pharmacokinetics for both of the test substances may be responsible for the different results.", "PMID": 457189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12555", "title": "[Encephalitis due to Naegleria and Acanthamoeba. Comparison of organisms and diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "Naegleria and Acanthamoeba are ubiquitous, free-living amoebas. Infections with Naegleria are acquired nasally by exposure to water and are characterized by an acute fulminant hemorrhagic necrotizing meningoencephalitis leading to death. Acanthamoeba-infections occur in chronically ill, debilitated individuals. A patchy chronic or subacute granulomatous encephalitis is produced by hematogenous spread of the amoebas. The histological or clinical diagnosis is not difficult.", "contents": "[Encephalitis due to Naegleria and Acanthamoeba. Comparison of organisms and diseases (author's transl)]. Naegleria and Acanthamoeba are ubiquitous, free-living amoebas. Infections with Naegleria are acquired nasally by exposure to water and are characterized by an acute fulminant hemorrhagic necrotizing meningoencephalitis leading to death. Acanthamoeba-infections occur in chronically ill, debilitated individuals. A patchy chronic or subacute granulomatous encephalitis is produced by hematogenous spread of the amoebas. The histological or clinical diagnosis is not difficult.", "PMID": 457190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12556", "title": "Volatile fatty acids and aerobic flora in the gastrointestinal tract of mice under various conditions.", "content": "Volatile fatty acids are reported to exert a repressive effect upon Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas species in vitro and in vivo in young mice. The mean total volatile fatty acid concentration in the cecal samples of conventional mice fed ad libitum was 81.7 mumol/g (wet weight), which is antibacterial in vitro, and in the rectal samples it was 41.1 mumol/g (wet weight). The mean count of Enterobacteriaceae in the cecum was only 10(2)/g, whereas in the rectum it was 10(5)/g. Volatile fatty acid levels were influenced by food intake and increased to peak levels approximately 6 to 10 h after eating and then declined. In mice fasted for 17 h, the butyric acid concentration was considerably lower and the number of cecal samples positive for Enterobacteriaceae increased. When fasted for 4 days, mice had extremely low cecal and rectal volatile fatty acid concentrations and the Enterobacteriaceae and enterococci counts increased to mean of 2 x 10(6)/g and 3 x 10(6)/g, respectively, in the cecum and to means of 10(7) and 5 x 10(6)/g in the rectum. We conclude that volatile fatty acids are probably one of the many interference mechanisms which are involved with control of the levels of Enterobacteriaceae (and enterococci) in the large intestine of mice.", "contents": "Volatile fatty acids and aerobic flora in the gastrointestinal tract of mice under various conditions. Volatile fatty acids are reported to exert a repressive effect upon Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas species in vitro and in vivo in young mice. The mean total volatile fatty acid concentration in the cecal samples of conventional mice fed ad libitum was 81.7 mumol/g (wet weight), which is antibacterial in vitro, and in the rectal samples it was 41.1 mumol/g (wet weight). The mean count of Enterobacteriaceae in the cecum was only 10(2)/g, whereas in the rectum it was 10(5)/g. Volatile fatty acid levels were influenced by food intake and increased to peak levels approximately 6 to 10 h after eating and then declined. In mice fasted for 17 h, the butyric acid concentration was considerably lower and the number of cecal samples positive for Enterobacteriaceae increased. When fasted for 4 days, mice had extremely low cecal and rectal volatile fatty acid concentrations and the Enterobacteriaceae and enterococci counts increased to mean of 2 x 10(6)/g and 3 x 10(6)/g, respectively, in the cecum and to means of 10(7) and 5 x 10(6)/g in the rectum. We conclude that volatile fatty acids are probably one of the many interference mechanisms which are involved with control of the levels of Enterobacteriaceae (and enterococci) in the large intestine of mice.", "PMID": 457249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12557", "title": "Effect of salts on water-insoluble glucan formation by glucosyltransferase of Streptococcus mutans.", "content": "The formation of water-insoluble glucan by extracellular glucosyltransferase from Streptococcus mutans 6715 found to be greatly stimulated by various mono- or divalent cations. An enzyme preparation, obtained by ethanol fractionation, was able to catalyze the formation of water-insoluble glucan from sucrose in the presence of monovalent cations above 100mM or divalent cations above 20 mM at neutral pH. As the concentration of monovalent and divalent cations was reduced to below 10 mM and 1 mM, respectively, the formation of insoluble glucan decreased to a negligible amount. High concentrations of these cations were found to stimulate the formation of insoluble glucan in the following ways: (i) it increased the activity of total glucosyltransferase up to 1.6- and 2.7-fold in the absence and presence of a primer dextran, respectively, and (ii) it changed the formation of soluble glucan to insoluble. It was postulated that one of the essential factors for the formation of insoluble glucan would be to keep more than two water-soluble glucan chains close to enzyme aggregates and that such interaction could be enhanced by the presence of high cation concentrations.", "contents": "Effect of salts on water-insoluble glucan formation by glucosyltransferase of Streptococcus mutans. The formation of water-insoluble glucan by extracellular glucosyltransferase from Streptococcus mutans 6715 found to be greatly stimulated by various mono- or divalent cations. An enzyme preparation, obtained by ethanol fractionation, was able to catalyze the formation of water-insoluble glucan from sucrose in the presence of monovalent cations above 100mM or divalent cations above 20 mM at neutral pH. As the concentration of monovalent and divalent cations was reduced to below 10 mM and 1 mM, respectively, the formation of insoluble glucan decreased to a negligible amount. High concentrations of these cations were found to stimulate the formation of insoluble glucan in the following ways: (i) it increased the activity of total glucosyltransferase up to 1.6- and 2.7-fold in the absence and presence of a primer dextran, respectively, and (ii) it changed the formation of soluble glucan to insoluble. It was postulated that one of the essential factors for the formation of insoluble glucan would be to keep more than two water-soluble glucan chains close to enzyme aggregates and that such interaction could be enhanced by the presence of high cation concentrations.", "PMID": 457250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12558", "title": "Effect of bacteriocin production by Streptococcus mutans on the plaque of gnotobiotic rats.", "content": "The effect of bacteriocins produced by strains of Streptococcus mutans on the microbial composition of dental plaque was studied in gnotobiotic rats. In one set of tests, using S. mutans strains T2 and SW31, rats were simultaneously infected with the bacteriocinogenic parent (bac(+)) and corresponding bac(-) mutants, and the relative proportions of each strain present in three different tooth sites were determined at various time intervals after inoculation. Some animals were monoinfected with bac(+) and bac(-) strains, and in vivo properties, such as plaque fermentation end products, amount of plaque formed, and cariogenicity, were measured. In another series of tests with strains T2 bac(+) and T2 bac(-), animals were sequentially inoculated with a time interval of 1 week. On simultaneous inoculation, the bac(-) mutant, which was sensitive in vitro to the bacteriocin produced by the parent, was totally unable to establish in a plaque consisting of the bac(+) strain even when the challenging dose was increased 100-fold. In contrast, the bac(+) strain was successful not only in invading an established bac(-) plaque but also in eventually almost eliminating the mutant. In monoinfected animals, there were no significant differences in plaque-forming ability, fermentation end products, or cariogenicity between the two strains. Also, bacteriocin activity was detected in plaque harboring the bac(+) but not the bac(-) strain. The results not only indicate that bacteriocin activity can occur in vivo but also suggest that bacteriocinogeny might confer an ecological advantage upon a strain attempting to establish itself in an ecosystem.", "contents": "Effect of bacteriocin production by Streptococcus mutans on the plaque of gnotobiotic rats. The effect of bacteriocins produced by strains of Streptococcus mutans on the microbial composition of dental plaque was studied in gnotobiotic rats. In one set of tests, using S. mutans strains T2 and SW31, rats were simultaneously infected with the bacteriocinogenic parent (bac(+)) and corresponding bac(-) mutants, and the relative proportions of each strain present in three different tooth sites were determined at various time intervals after inoculation. Some animals were monoinfected with bac(+) and bac(-) strains, and in vivo properties, such as plaque fermentation end products, amount of plaque formed, and cariogenicity, were measured. In another series of tests with strains T2 bac(+) and T2 bac(-), animals were sequentially inoculated with a time interval of 1 week. On simultaneous inoculation, the bac(-) mutant, which was sensitive in vitro to the bacteriocin produced by the parent, was totally unable to establish in a plaque consisting of the bac(+) strain even when the challenging dose was increased 100-fold. In contrast, the bac(+) strain was successful not only in invading an established bac(-) plaque but also in eventually almost eliminating the mutant. In monoinfected animals, there were no significant differences in plaque-forming ability, fermentation end products, or cariogenicity between the two strains. Also, bacteriocin activity was detected in plaque harboring the bac(+) but not the bac(-) strain. The results not only indicate that bacteriocin activity can occur in vivo but also suggest that bacteriocinogeny might confer an ecological advantage upon a strain attempting to establish itself in an ecosystem.", "PMID": 457251} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12559", "title": "Properties of Streptococcus mutans grown in a synthetic medium: binding of glucosyltransferase and in vitro adherence, and binding of dextran/glucan and glycoprotein and agglutination.", "content": "The influence of culture media on various properties of Streptococcus mutans was investigated. Strains of S. mutans (serotypes c, d, f, and g) were grown in a complex medium (Todd-Hewitt broth [THB]) or a synthetic medium (SYN). The SYN cells, in contrast to THB cells, did not bind extracellular glucosyltransferase and did not produce in vitro adherence. Both types of cells possessed constitutive levels of glucosyltransferase. B13 cells grown in SYN plus invertase-treated glucose possessed the same level of constitutive enzyme as THB cells. In contrast to THB cells, the SYN cells of seven serotype strains did not agglutinate upon the addition of high-molecular-weight dextran/glucan. Significant quantities of lower-molecular-weight (2 x 10(4) or 7 x 10(4)) dextran and B13 glucan were bound by SYN cells. SYN cells agglutinated weakly in anti-glucan serum (titers, 0 to 16), whereas THB cells possessed titers of 32 to 256. Evidence for the existence of a second binding site in agglutination which does not possess a glucan-like polymer has been obtained. B13 cells grown in invertase-treated THB agglutinated to the same degree as normal THB cells. The nature of this site is unknown. SYN cells possess the type-specific polysaccharide antigen. B13 cells did not bind from THB a glycoprotein which reacts with antisera to the A, B, or T blood group antigens or which allows agglutination upon the addition of dextran. The results demonstrate that S. mutans grown in a chemically defined medium possesse markedly different biochemical and biological activities than cells grown in a complex organic medium.", "contents": "Properties of Streptococcus mutans grown in a synthetic medium: binding of glucosyltransferase and in vitro adherence, and binding of dextran/glucan and glycoprotein and agglutination. The influence of culture media on various properties of Streptococcus mutans was investigated. Strains of S. mutans (serotypes c, d, f, and g) were grown in a complex medium (Todd-Hewitt broth [THB]) or a synthetic medium (SYN). The SYN cells, in contrast to THB cells, did not bind extracellular glucosyltransferase and did not produce in vitro adherence. Both types of cells possessed constitutive levels of glucosyltransferase. B13 cells grown in SYN plus invertase-treated glucose possessed the same level of constitutive enzyme as THB cells. In contrast to THB cells, the SYN cells of seven serotype strains did not agglutinate upon the addition of high-molecular-weight dextran/glucan. Significant quantities of lower-molecular-weight (2 x 10(4) or 7 x 10(4)) dextran and B13 glucan were bound by SYN cells. SYN cells agglutinated weakly in anti-glucan serum (titers, 0 to 16), whereas THB cells possessed titers of 32 to 256. Evidence for the existence of a second binding site in agglutination which does not possess a glucan-like polymer has been obtained. B13 cells grown in invertase-treated THB agglutinated to the same degree as normal THB cells. The nature of this site is unknown. SYN cells possess the type-specific polysaccharide antigen. B13 cells did not bind from THB a glycoprotein which reacts with antisera to the A, B, or T blood group antigens or which allows agglutination upon the addition of dextran. The results demonstrate that S. mutans grown in a chemically defined medium possesse markedly different biochemical and biological activities than cells grown in a complex organic medium.", "PMID": 457252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12560", "title": "Purification and physicochemical and biological characterization of a staphylococcal pyrogenic exotoxin.", "content": "A staphylococcal pyrogenic exotoxin was purified and characterized biochemically and biologically. The organism producing the toxin was a group I Staphylococcus aureus strain which was isolated from a vaginal infection of a patient with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki's disease). The possible association of the toxin with the disease syndrome is discussed. The toxin was purified from cell-free culture supernatant fluids by means of differential precipitation with ethanol and resolubilization in pyrogen-free distilled water followed by preparative thin-layer isoelectric focusing. The pyrogenic exotoxin produced fevers in both rabbits and mice and enhanced host susceptibility to lethal shock and myocardial and liver damage by endotoxin. Also, the toxin was a potent nonspecific lymphocyte mitogen, stimulating rabbit spleen cells and human cord blood lymphocytes to proliferate. The toxin migrated as a homogeneous protein when tested with sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (molecular weight, 12,000) and reisoelectric focusing (pI 5.3). Hyperimmune antisera raised against the purified toxin reacted with ethanol-precipitated toxin, using immunodiffusion to form a single precipitin arc. The toxin was distinguished from other staphylococcal toxins by a variety of methods. The amino acid composition was determined.", "contents": "Purification and physicochemical and biological characterization of a staphylococcal pyrogenic exotoxin. A staphylococcal pyrogenic exotoxin was purified and characterized biochemically and biologically. The organism producing the toxin was a group I Staphylococcus aureus strain which was isolated from a vaginal infection of a patient with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki's disease). The possible association of the toxin with the disease syndrome is discussed. The toxin was purified from cell-free culture supernatant fluids by means of differential precipitation with ethanol and resolubilization in pyrogen-free distilled water followed by preparative thin-layer isoelectric focusing. The pyrogenic exotoxin produced fevers in both rabbits and mice and enhanced host susceptibility to lethal shock and myocardial and liver damage by endotoxin. Also, the toxin was a potent nonspecific lymphocyte mitogen, stimulating rabbit spleen cells and human cord blood lymphocytes to proliferate. The toxin migrated as a homogeneous protein when tested with sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (molecular weight, 12,000) and reisoelectric focusing (pI 5.3). Hyperimmune antisera raised against the purified toxin reacted with ethanol-precipitated toxin, using immunodiffusion to form a single precipitin arc. The toxin was distinguished from other staphylococcal toxins by a variety of methods. The amino acid composition was determined.", "PMID": 457253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12561", "title": "Inhibition of in vitro proliferative responses of human lymphocytes by rimantadine hydrochloride.", "content": "Rimantadine hydrochloride (alpha-methyl-1-adamantanemethylamine hydrochloride) inhibits the in vitro proliferative response of human peripheral blood lymphocytes to mitogenic and antigenic stimulation. Addition of drug (25 micrograms/ml) at the initiation of 5-day cultures suppressed the responses to phytohemagglutinin, pokeweed mitogen, and concanavalin A by 25, 65, and 90%, respectively. Similarly, responses to streptokinase-streptodornase, tetanus toxoid, and A2/Aichi influenza vaccine were significantly inhibited at concentrations as low as 10 micrograms of rimantadine per ml. Viability studies on 5-day cultures using trypan blue exclusion showed no significant difference between drug-treated and untreated controls. Furthermore, addition of drug on day 3 of 8-day cultures, at a time when the majority of cells had undergone blastogenesis, greatly suppressed the responses to these mitogens. These studies suggest that, in addition to its antiviral action, rimantadine interferes with the generation of cellular immune responses.", "contents": "Inhibition of in vitro proliferative responses of human lymphocytes by rimantadine hydrochloride. Rimantadine hydrochloride (alpha-methyl-1-adamantanemethylamine hydrochloride) inhibits the in vitro proliferative response of human peripheral blood lymphocytes to mitogenic and antigenic stimulation. Addition of drug (25 micrograms/ml) at the initiation of 5-day cultures suppressed the responses to phytohemagglutinin, pokeweed mitogen, and concanavalin A by 25, 65, and 90%, respectively. Similarly, responses to streptokinase-streptodornase, tetanus toxoid, and A2/Aichi influenza vaccine were significantly inhibited at concentrations as low as 10 micrograms of rimantadine per ml. Viability studies on 5-day cultures using trypan blue exclusion showed no significant difference between drug-treated and untreated controls. Furthermore, addition of drug on day 3 of 8-day cultures, at a time when the majority of cells had undergone blastogenesis, greatly suppressed the responses to these mitogens. These studies suggest that, in addition to its antiviral action, rimantadine interferes with the generation of cellular immune responses.", "PMID": 457254} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12562", "title": "Production of a mutagen from ponceau 3R by a human intestinal anaerobe.", "content": "Ponceau 3R was reduced in vitro by Fusobacterium sp. 2, a human intestinal anaerobe, to a product which is mutagenic when metabolically activated by liver S9 preparations in the Salmonella/mammalian-microsome mutagenicity test. This mutagenic metabolite has been identified as 2,4,5-trimethylaniline.", "contents": "Production of a mutagen from ponceau 3R by a human intestinal anaerobe. Ponceau 3R was reduced in vitro by Fusobacterium sp. 2, a human intestinal anaerobe, to a product which is mutagenic when metabolically activated by liver S9 preparations in the Salmonella/mammalian-microsome mutagenicity test. This mutagenic metabolite has been identified as 2,4,5-trimethylaniline.", "PMID": 457255} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12563", "title": "Activation of the alternative complement pathway by L-phase variants of gram-positive bacteria.", "content": "The present studies were performed to investigate the potential role of the alternative complement pathway in the host's defense against bacterial L-phase variants and to gain insight into the subcellular component of gram-positive bacteria responsible for activation of the alternative pathway. L-phase variants of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus faecalis were able to activate the alternative pathway and consume C3 in C4-deficient guinea pig serum in amounts comparable to their respective bacterial-phase parent organisms. Activation of the complement system via the alternative pathway resulted in death of the L-phase variants. Membranes prepared from S. faecalis L-phase variants, by either osmotic lysis or mechanical disruption, retained their ability to activate the alternative pathway. Treatment of the membranes by three different methods (water washes, hot trichloroacetic acid, and cold trichloroacetic acid) resulted in a greatly diminished ability of the membranes to activate the alternative pathway. In addition, the extracts derived from the membranes by water washes and by cold-trichloroacetic acid treatment were able to activate the alternative pathway. These studies indicate that these L-phase variants can activate the alternative pathway and suggest that membrane-associated factors play a role in the alternative pathway activation by S. faecalis L-phase variants.", "contents": "Activation of the alternative complement pathway by L-phase variants of gram-positive bacteria. The present studies were performed to investigate the potential role of the alternative complement pathway in the host's defense against bacterial L-phase variants and to gain insight into the subcellular component of gram-positive bacteria responsible for activation of the alternative pathway. L-phase variants of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus faecalis were able to activate the alternative pathway and consume C3 in C4-deficient guinea pig serum in amounts comparable to their respective bacterial-phase parent organisms. Activation of the complement system via the alternative pathway resulted in death of the L-phase variants. Membranes prepared from S. faecalis L-phase variants, by either osmotic lysis or mechanical disruption, retained their ability to activate the alternative pathway. Treatment of the membranes by three different methods (water washes, hot trichloroacetic acid, and cold trichloroacetic acid) resulted in a greatly diminished ability of the membranes to activate the alternative pathway. In addition, the extracts derived from the membranes by water washes and by cold-trichloroacetic acid treatment were able to activate the alternative pathway. These studies indicate that these L-phase variants can activate the alternative pathway and suggest that membrane-associated factors play a role in the alternative pathway activation by S. faecalis L-phase variants.", "PMID": 457256} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12564", "title": "Local cholera immunity in mice: intestinal antitoxin-containing cells and their correlation with protective immunity.", "content": "Methods for light and electron microscopic identification and characterization of intestinal cholera antitoxin-containing cells (ACC) using peroxidase-labeled immunoreagent are described and used to study the ACC response in mice after immunizations with cholera toxin. Specific ACC appeared in significant numbers after two oral immunizations and increased six- to eightfold with two additional oral boosters, whereas further oral immunizations caused no additional stimulation. Intravenous immunizations had to be repeated seven times before ACC could be detected. After two oral immunizations, most of the ACC were found in the proximal part of the small intestine and no ACC were seen in the colon. This uneven distribution of ACC within the small intestine was eliminated after four oral immunizations, when ACC could also be detected in the colon. The ACC response after four oral immunizations demonstrated a peak at 4 days with far fewer cells present at 2 and 7 days. Electron microscopic studies showed that the ACC were mature plasma cells with the staining localized to the endoplasmic reticulum. Regression analysis of the relationship between the number of ACC and the magnitude of protective immunity against intestinal challenge with cholera toxin indicates a highly significant correlation (r = 0.91, P less than 0.001).", "contents": "Local cholera immunity in mice: intestinal antitoxin-containing cells and their correlation with protective immunity. Methods for light and electron microscopic identification and characterization of intestinal cholera antitoxin-containing cells (ACC) using peroxidase-labeled immunoreagent are described and used to study the ACC response in mice after immunizations with cholera toxin. Specific ACC appeared in significant numbers after two oral immunizations and increased six- to eightfold with two additional oral boosters, whereas further oral immunizations caused no additional stimulation. Intravenous immunizations had to be repeated seven times before ACC could be detected. After two oral immunizations, most of the ACC were found in the proximal part of the small intestine and no ACC were seen in the colon. This uneven distribution of ACC within the small intestine was eliminated after four oral immunizations, when ACC could also be detected in the colon. The ACC response after four oral immunizations demonstrated a peak at 4 days with far fewer cells present at 2 and 7 days. Electron microscopic studies showed that the ACC were mature plasma cells with the staining localized to the endoplasmic reticulum. Regression analysis of the relationship between the number of ACC and the magnitude of protective immunity against intestinal challenge with cholera toxin indicates a highly significant correlation (r = 0.91, P less than 0.001).", "PMID": 457257} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12565", "title": "Variable infection of Vero cells and homologous interference after co-cultivation with HeLa cells with persistent defective infection by Edmonston measles virus.", "content": "The HeLa subline K11A-HG-1 (line of HeLa cells persistently infected with Edomonston measles virus but containing little or no transmissible infectious virus) was co-cultivated with Vero cells. Focal syncytia were formed containing measles antigen and accumulations of nucleocapsid-like structures with no detectable production of transmissible infectious virus or positive hemadsorption. The infection aborted between 2 and 3 weeks after preparation of co-cultures. Upon subculture of co-cultures, occasionally complete infections (progressive syncytial degeneration, hemadsorption, and production of transmissible infectious virus) appeared. A linear dose response curve for nontransmissible infection was obtained along with evidence that measles antigen had to be present on the surface of K11A-HG-1 cells for their infectivity for Vero cells. The basis for initiation of Vero cell infection by living K11A-HG-1 cells, but not by nonviable intact K11A-HG-1 cells killed by a virus-preserving technique, nor by disrupted K11A-HG-1 cells, is, at present, a matter of speculation. However, several lines of evidence were obtained which suggested that subsequent development of delayed variable transmissible Vero cell infection occurred because of a type of viral interference, including the presence of an inhibitor in K11A-HG-1 cultures, the bulk of which was cell-associated.", "contents": "Variable infection of Vero cells and homologous interference after co-cultivation with HeLa cells with persistent defective infection by Edmonston measles virus. The HeLa subline K11A-HG-1 (line of HeLa cells persistently infected with Edomonston measles virus but containing little or no transmissible infectious virus) was co-cultivated with Vero cells. Focal syncytia were formed containing measles antigen and accumulations of nucleocapsid-like structures with no detectable production of transmissible infectious virus or positive hemadsorption. The infection aborted between 2 and 3 weeks after preparation of co-cultures. Upon subculture of co-cultures, occasionally complete infections (progressive syncytial degeneration, hemadsorption, and production of transmissible infectious virus) appeared. A linear dose response curve for nontransmissible infection was obtained along with evidence that measles antigen had to be present on the surface of K11A-HG-1 cells for their infectivity for Vero cells. The basis for initiation of Vero cell infection by living K11A-HG-1 cells, but not by nonviable intact K11A-HG-1 cells killed by a virus-preserving technique, nor by disrupted K11A-HG-1 cells, is, at present, a matter of speculation. However, several lines of evidence were obtained which suggested that subsequent development of delayed variable transmissible Vero cell infection occurred because of a type of viral interference, including the presence of an inhibitor in K11A-HG-1 cultures, the bulk of which was cell-associated.", "PMID": 457258} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12566", "title": "Ultrastructural changes of cultured human amnion cells by Clostridiu difficile toxin.", "content": "The ultrastructure of the surface of primary human amnion monolayer cells undergoing cytopathology induced by Clostridium difficile toxin was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Our observations indicated that the type and distribution of cell surface projections were altered dramatically by this toxin. The patterns of such surface changes were specific for the two different types of cells found in this cell culture. Cells with demarcated borders showed rearrangement of microvilli into globular chains or ridges which lined up with the branching membrane. Cells without demarcated borders exhibited studlike microvilli, all arranged into ridges or globular chains. These changes were noted after 1 h of toxin exposure and persisted without further progression, in spite of continued toxin exposure, up to 48 h. These data indicate that C. difficile produces a cytolytic toxin and that scanning electron microscopy may be useful in determining toxin-cell interactions.", "contents": "Ultrastructural changes of cultured human amnion cells by Clostridiu difficile toxin. The ultrastructure of the surface of primary human amnion monolayer cells undergoing cytopathology induced by Clostridium difficile toxin was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Our observations indicated that the type and distribution of cell surface projections were altered dramatically by this toxin. The patterns of such surface changes were specific for the two different types of cells found in this cell culture. Cells with demarcated borders showed rearrangement of microvilli into globular chains or ridges which lined up with the branching membrane. Cells without demarcated borders exhibited studlike microvilli, all arranged into ridges or globular chains. These changes were noted after 1 h of toxin exposure and persisted without further progression, in spite of continued toxin exposure, up to 48 h. These data indicate that C. difficile produces a cytolytic toxin and that scanning electron microscopy may be useful in determining toxin-cell interactions.", "PMID": 457259} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12567", "title": "Cytotoxic enterotoxin produced by Aeromonas hydrophila: relationship of toxigenic isolates to diarrheal disease.", "content": "Ninety-six Aeromonas hydrophila isolates were tested for cytotoxin and hemolysin production. Sixty-six (69%) of the isolates were both cytotoxic and hemolytic, whereas the rest produced neither cytotoxin nor hemolysin. No evidence of a separate cytotonic activity could be found in any of the isolates. Cytotoxin activity correlated with enterotoxic activity. Of four cytotoxin-producing strains tested in the isolated rabbit ileal loop, three were definitely positive and one was borderline, whereas two nontoxigenic strains were negative. Cytotoxin activity appeared to be a stable property and could not be assoicated with any common identified plasmid; only 10 of 21 cytotoxin-producing strains could be shown to have any plasmid by agarose gel electrophoresis. Cytotoxin production correlated with a positive lysine decarboxylase phenotype (98%) or a positive Voges-Proskauer phenotype (94%), compared to 27% lysine decarboxylase-positive and 23% Voges-Proskauer-positive, cytotoxin-negative isolates (P less than 0.001 for both). In fecal samples, cytotoxin production correlated with diarrheal disease; of 40 diarrheal isolates, 32 (80%) were toxigenic compared to 9 (41%) of 22 nondiarrheal isolates (P = 0.004). It appears that A. hydrophila can be a cause of diarrhea and that this enteropathogenic potential is mediated by a cytotoxic enterotoxin.", "contents": "Cytotoxic enterotoxin produced by Aeromonas hydrophila: relationship of toxigenic isolates to diarrheal disease. Ninety-six Aeromonas hydrophila isolates were tested for cytotoxin and hemolysin production. Sixty-six (69%) of the isolates were both cytotoxic and hemolytic, whereas the rest produced neither cytotoxin nor hemolysin. No evidence of a separate cytotonic activity could be found in any of the isolates. Cytotoxin activity correlated with enterotoxic activity. Of four cytotoxin-producing strains tested in the isolated rabbit ileal loop, three were definitely positive and one was borderline, whereas two nontoxigenic strains were negative. Cytotoxin activity appeared to be a stable property and could not be assoicated with any common identified plasmid; only 10 of 21 cytotoxin-producing strains could be shown to have any plasmid by agarose gel electrophoresis. Cytotoxin production correlated with a positive lysine decarboxylase phenotype (98%) or a positive Voges-Proskauer phenotype (94%), compared to 27% lysine decarboxylase-positive and 23% Voges-Proskauer-positive, cytotoxin-negative isolates (P less than 0.001 for both). In fecal samples, cytotoxin production correlated with diarrheal disease; of 40 diarrheal isolates, 32 (80%) were toxigenic compared to 9 (41%) of 22 nondiarrheal isolates (P = 0.004). It appears that A. hydrophila can be a cause of diarrhea and that this enteropathogenic potential is mediated by a cytotoxic enterotoxin.", "PMID": 457260} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12568", "title": "Experimental hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis: diagnostic approaches.", "content": "Anterior chamber aspiration and vitreous aspiration were evaluated as diagnostic procedures for establishing a specific microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis. Vitreous aspiration was the most successful procedure, confirming the diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis in 62% of eyes with documented intraocular infection. When animals with only the most severe clinical endophthalmitis were considered, vitreous aspiration confirmed the diagnosis in 89% of eyes evaluated. Vitreous aspiration correlated well with the extent of clinical endophthalmitis, as well as with postmortem, whole-vitreous cultures. Gram staining of the aspirate was additive to culture results in confirming the diagnosis. Anterior chamber aspiration was positive in only 1 of 58 eyes evaluated (1.7%). Additionally, muscle biospy was evaluated in this study as a tool for establishing a microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of disseminated candidiasis. Only 2 of 131 biospy specimens contained detectable Candida. Although vitreous aspiration may be associated with ocular complications, in certain clinical settings this procedure may be valuable in establishing the definitive microbiological diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis.", "contents": "Experimental hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis: diagnostic approaches. Anterior chamber aspiration and vitreous aspiration were evaluated as diagnostic procedures for establishing a specific microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis. Vitreous aspiration was the most successful procedure, confirming the diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis in 62% of eyes with documented intraocular infection. When animals with only the most severe clinical endophthalmitis were considered, vitreous aspiration confirmed the diagnosis in 89% of eyes evaluated. Vitreous aspiration correlated well with the extent of clinical endophthalmitis, as well as with postmortem, whole-vitreous cultures. Gram staining of the aspirate was additive to culture results in confirming the diagnosis. Anterior chamber aspiration was positive in only 1 of 58 eyes evaluated (1.7%). Additionally, muscle biospy was evaluated in this study as a tool for establishing a microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of disseminated candidiasis. Only 2 of 131 biospy specimens contained detectable Candida. Although vitreous aspiration may be associated with ocular complications, in certain clinical settings this procedure may be valuable in establishing the definitive microbiological diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis.", "PMID": 457261} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12569", "title": "Purification and antigenic properties of intracellular invertase from Streptococcus mutans.", "content": "Intracellular invertase from Streptococcus mutans GS5 was purified to near homogeneity by gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography followed by preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The invertase appeared to be composed of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of 48,000. Extracellular invertase was identified in strain GS5 and was determined to have a molecular weight of 500,000. No antigenic relationship between these two forms of invertase was observed since antibody prepared against purified intracellular invertase neither affected extracellular invertase activity nor precipitated that enzyme on immunodiffusion. No antigenic relatedness between intracellular invertase and glucosyl- and fructosyl- transferases was detected since cross-reactivity with antibody prepared against either enzyme fraction was not observed after immunodiffusion. Using immunodiffusion and quantitative precipitin data, we examined the relationships of other S. mutans intracellular invertases to the serotype c enzyme. It appeared that the intracellular invertases from serotypes e, f, and g were structurally similar to the enzyme from serotype c, whereas the structure of invertases from serotypes a, b, and d appeared less similar to that of enzyme from serotype c.", "contents": "Purification and antigenic properties of intracellular invertase from Streptococcus mutans. Intracellular invertase from Streptococcus mutans GS5 was purified to near homogeneity by gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography followed by preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The invertase appeared to be composed of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of 48,000. Extracellular invertase was identified in strain GS5 and was determined to have a molecular weight of 500,000. No antigenic relationship between these two forms of invertase was observed since antibody prepared against purified intracellular invertase neither affected extracellular invertase activity nor precipitated that enzyme on immunodiffusion. No antigenic relatedness between intracellular invertase and glucosyl- and fructosyl- transferases was detected since cross-reactivity with antibody prepared against either enzyme fraction was not observed after immunodiffusion. Using immunodiffusion and quantitative precipitin data, we examined the relationships of other S. mutans intracellular invertases to the serotype c enzyme. It appeared that the intracellular invertases from serotypes e, f, and g were structurally similar to the enzyme from serotype c, whereas the structure of invertases from serotypes a, b, and d appeared less similar to that of enzyme from serotype c.", "PMID": 457262} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12570", "title": "Immunoregulatory responses in experimental disseminated histoplasmosis: lymphoid organ histopathology and serological studies.", "content": "To study immunoregulatory mechanisms in systemic histoplasmosis, a highly reproducible model of infection was established in C3H/Anf mice. Intravenous inoculation of 6- to 8-week-old mice with from 5 x 10(5) to 10 x 10(5) cells of yeast-phase Histoplasma capsulatum strain G-217B produced disseminated infection that resolved over an 8-week period without therapeutic intervention. Serological studies demonstrated complement-fixing antibody production to yeast- and mycelial-phase antigens of H. capsulatum. Complement-fixing antibody to the former was detected at week 1, and it peaked at week 3 and declined thereafter. Complement-fixing antibody to mycelial-phase antigen(s) appeared later (week 3) and did not peak until week 18. Grossly, the spleens of infected mice were enlarged from three to four times normal size during peak infection, whereas the thymuses were markedly involuted. Conversely, at week 8 the average spleen size was considerably smaller and the thymic mass was increased relative to the mass at week 3. Histopathologically, the paracortical regions of lymph nodes and the white pulp (periarteriolar lymphocyte sheaths) and marginal zones of the spleen were heavily infiltrated by granulomata at week 1. By week 8, the infiltrates in these areas had largely resolved. Thymocytes were severely depleted from the cortical lobules of the thymus at week 1; however, thymic cellularity was restored by week 8. These reciprocal changes in cellularity of the thymus and spleen during active infection may be of importance with reference to the disturbances of immunoregulation that we have observed in Histoplasma-infected mice.", "contents": "Immunoregulatory responses in experimental disseminated histoplasmosis: lymphoid organ histopathology and serological studies. To study immunoregulatory mechanisms in systemic histoplasmosis, a highly reproducible model of infection was established in C3H/Anf mice. Intravenous inoculation of 6- to 8-week-old mice with from 5 x 10(5) to 10 x 10(5) cells of yeast-phase Histoplasma capsulatum strain G-217B produced disseminated infection that resolved over an 8-week period without therapeutic intervention. Serological studies demonstrated complement-fixing antibody production to yeast- and mycelial-phase antigens of H. capsulatum. Complement-fixing antibody to the former was detected at week 1, and it peaked at week 3 and declined thereafter. Complement-fixing antibody to mycelial-phase antigen(s) appeared later (week 3) and did not peak until week 18. Grossly, the spleens of infected mice were enlarged from three to four times normal size during peak infection, whereas the thymuses were markedly involuted. Conversely, at week 8 the average spleen size was considerably smaller and the thymic mass was increased relative to the mass at week 3. Histopathologically, the paracortical regions of lymph nodes and the white pulp (periarteriolar lymphocyte sheaths) and marginal zones of the spleen were heavily infiltrated by granulomata at week 1. By week 8, the infiltrates in these areas had largely resolved. Thymocytes were severely depleted from the cortical lobules of the thymus at week 1; however, thymic cellularity was restored by week 8. These reciprocal changes in cellularity of the thymus and spleen during active infection may be of importance with reference to the disturbances of immunoregulation that we have observed in Histoplasma-infected mice.", "PMID": 457263} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12571", "title": "Isolation of mutants of Mycoplasma pneumoniae defective in hemadsorption.", "content": "Mutants of Mycoplasma pneumoniae incapable of hemadsorption were isolated by means of chemical mutagenesis. These hemadsorption-negative mutants did not attach to hamster tracheal rings in vitro at as high a frequency as that exhibited by the wild-type parent strain.", "contents": "Isolation of mutants of Mycoplasma pneumoniae defective in hemadsorption. Mutants of Mycoplasma pneumoniae incapable of hemadsorption were isolated by means of chemical mutagenesis. These hemadsorption-negative mutants did not attach to hamster tracheal rings in vitro at as high a frequency as that exhibited by the wild-type parent strain.", "PMID": 457264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12572", "title": "Linkage analyses of extracellular glucans from Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mitior.", "content": "Similar alpha-(1-->6) linkage-rich, soluble, extracellular glucans have been isolated from six strains of two genetically distinct groups of Streptococcus sanguis and three strains of Streptococcus mitior.", "contents": "Linkage analyses of extracellular glucans from Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mitior. Similar alpha-(1-->6) linkage-rich, soluble, extracellular glucans have been isolated from six strains of two genetically distinct groups of Streptococcus sanguis and three strains of Streptococcus mitior.", "PMID": 457265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12573", "title": "Immunological relationship between delta-hemolysins of Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative strains of staphylococci.", "content": "Delta-hemolysin of coagulase-negative staphylococcal strains was immunologically identical to delta-hemolysin of Staphylococcus aureus (Newman) but distinct from delta-hemolysin from a canine strain of S. aureus.", "contents": "Immunological relationship between delta-hemolysins of Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative strains of staphylococci. Delta-hemolysin of coagulase-negative staphylococcal strains was immunologically identical to delta-hemolysin of Staphylococcus aureus (Newman) but distinct from delta-hemolysin from a canine strain of S. aureus.", "PMID": 457266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12574", "title": "In vivo and in vitro characterization of virulence-deficient mutants of Vibrio cholerae.", "content": "In vitro and in vivo interactions between Vibrio cholerae and the infant mouse intestinal environment were examined by using a number of virulence-deficient mutants of strain CA401 which are unable to induce a typical diarrheal response. In vitro interactions with upper bowel sections were evaluated by determining percent association of radiolabeled organisms with sections. In vivo behavior was evaluated in the upper bowel early in infection with radiolabeled inocula. Ths relative degree of mechanical clearance was indicated by the percent recovery of input label. The relative degree of multiplication and killing was determined by changes in the specific activities (counts per minute per colony-forming unit) of inocula compared with recovered viable organisms. The results indicated that, whereas some virulence-deficient mutant classes exhibit net multiplication in the upper bowel, other classes show net killing in and accelerated clearance from the upper bowel. The in vitro association patterns failed to correlate with in vivo upper bowel recovery.", "contents": "In vivo and in vitro characterization of virulence-deficient mutants of Vibrio cholerae. In vitro and in vivo interactions between Vibrio cholerae and the infant mouse intestinal environment were examined by using a number of virulence-deficient mutants of strain CA401 which are unable to induce a typical diarrheal response. In vitro interactions with upper bowel sections were evaluated by determining percent association of radiolabeled organisms with sections. In vivo behavior was evaluated in the upper bowel early in infection with radiolabeled inocula. Ths relative degree of mechanical clearance was indicated by the percent recovery of input label. The relative degree of multiplication and killing was determined by changes in the specific activities (counts per minute per colony-forming unit) of inocula compared with recovered viable organisms. The results indicated that, whereas some virulence-deficient mutant classes exhibit net multiplication in the upper bowel, other classes show net killing in and accelerated clearance from the upper bowel. The in vitro association patterns failed to correlate with in vivo upper bowel recovery.", "PMID": 457267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12575", "title": "Serological studies on chemostat-grown cultures of Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus plantarum.", "content": "Lactobacillus fermentum NCTC 6991 and Lactobacillus plantarum NCIB 7220 were grown in a chemostat in the diffusible fraction of complex medium at pH 6.0 with glucose limitation. Organisms grown at different dilution rates (D) were injected into rabbits, and the resultant antisera were examined for reactivity with antigens previously isolated from batch-grown organisms. For L. fermentum, antisera obtained on injecting cells grown at D = 0.5 h-1 contained a significantly higher level of antibody reacting with lipoteichoic acid and a lower level of antibody reacting with wall polysaccharide than did antisera obtained with slower-growing cells (D = 0.05 and 0.033). Antibodies to the cell wall polysaccharide were alpha-D-glucosyl specific and cross-reacted with dextran and alpha-D-glucosyl ribitol teichoic acid from L. plantarum. The immunogenicity of the ribitol teichoic acid and lipoteichoic acid components of L. plantarum was not influenced by injecting organisms grown at different rates. However, chemical and serological studies indicate that growth of L. plantarum in the diffusible fraction of complex medium results in a wall teichoic acid of lower glucose substitution. This apparently influences the specificity of the resultant antibodies so that some sera react much less with glucosyl-substituted lipoteichoic acid and dextran.", "contents": "Serological studies on chemostat-grown cultures of Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus plantarum. Lactobacillus fermentum NCTC 6991 and Lactobacillus plantarum NCIB 7220 were grown in a chemostat in the diffusible fraction of complex medium at pH 6.0 with glucose limitation. Organisms grown at different dilution rates (D) were injected into rabbits, and the resultant antisera were examined for reactivity with antigens previously isolated from batch-grown organisms. For L. fermentum, antisera obtained on injecting cells grown at D = 0.5 h-1 contained a significantly higher level of antibody reacting with lipoteichoic acid and a lower level of antibody reacting with wall polysaccharide than did antisera obtained with slower-growing cells (D = 0.05 and 0.033). Antibodies to the cell wall polysaccharide were alpha-D-glucosyl specific and cross-reacted with dextran and alpha-D-glucosyl ribitol teichoic acid from L. plantarum. The immunogenicity of the ribitol teichoic acid and lipoteichoic acid components of L. plantarum was not influenced by injecting organisms grown at different rates. However, chemical and serological studies indicate that growth of L. plantarum in the diffusible fraction of complex medium results in a wall teichoic acid of lower glucose substitution. This apparently influences the specificity of the resultant antibodies so that some sera react much less with glucosyl-substituted lipoteichoic acid and dextran.", "PMID": 457268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12576", "title": "Influence of malaria infection on the elaboration of soluble mediators by adherent mononuclear cells.", "content": "MALARIA RESULTS IN TWO SEEMINGLY PARADOXICAL PERTURBATIONS OF THE IMMUNE RESPONSE: polyclonal B-cell activation and immunosuppression. To determine what immunoregulatory role mediators secreted by adherent cells might play in these alterations, we cultured adherent cells from uninfected mice and from mice at different times during infection with Plasmodium berghei or P. yoelii. Culture supernatants obtained from these cells were tested for their ability to enhance the in vitro proliferative responses of thymocytes to suboptimal concentrations of concanavalin A or to inhibit the mitogen-stimulated proliferation of normal spleen cells. Supernatants obtained from adherent cells of mice early in infection (days 1 to 3) contained significantly elevated levels of enhancing activity which on Bio-Gel P-100 chromatography resembled lymphocyte-activating factor. Later in infection (days 4 and 5), these supernatants contained inhibitory activity. Normal adherent cells, when cocultivated in vitro with parasitized erythrocytes, ingested parasite debris and were stimulated to produce the enhancing factor. At high parasite/adherent-cell ratios, cells elaborated an inhibitory factor. These findings suggest that during malaria, adherent cells are converted from a nonspecific helper role to a nonspecific suppressor role. This modulation in function may be due to the direct interaction between adherent cells and parasitized erythrocytes.", "contents": "Influence of malaria infection on the elaboration of soluble mediators by adherent mononuclear cells. MALARIA RESULTS IN TWO SEEMINGLY PARADOXICAL PERTURBATIONS OF THE IMMUNE RESPONSE: polyclonal B-cell activation and immunosuppression. To determine what immunoregulatory role mediators secreted by adherent cells might play in these alterations, we cultured adherent cells from uninfected mice and from mice at different times during infection with Plasmodium berghei or P. yoelii. Culture supernatants obtained from these cells were tested for their ability to enhance the in vitro proliferative responses of thymocytes to suboptimal concentrations of concanavalin A or to inhibit the mitogen-stimulated proliferation of normal spleen cells. Supernatants obtained from adherent cells of mice early in infection (days 1 to 3) contained significantly elevated levels of enhancing activity which on Bio-Gel P-100 chromatography resembled lymphocyte-activating factor. Later in infection (days 4 and 5), these supernatants contained inhibitory activity. Normal adherent cells, when cocultivated in vitro with parasitized erythrocytes, ingested parasite debris and were stimulated to produce the enhancing factor. At high parasite/adherent-cell ratios, cells elaborated an inhibitory factor. These findings suggest that during malaria, adherent cells are converted from a nonspecific helper role to a nonspecific suppressor role. This modulation in function may be due to the direct interaction between adherent cells and parasitized erythrocytes.", "PMID": 457269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12577", "title": "Immunoglobulin G from subacute sclerosing panencephalitis brain as an immunological reagent.", "content": "Proteins were extracted at pH 2.5 from carefully washed brain homogenates of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Immunoglobulin G was isolated from the extracts by gel filtration and immunoadsorbent chromatography and was 125I radioiodinated. The labeled immunoglobulin G was reacted with purified measles virus antigens by crossed immunoelectrophoresis and utilized to identify antigens in measles-infected cell cultures and hamster brain tissue subjected to treatment corresponding to that used for elution of immunoglobulin G. The method described is useful in identifying the specific nature of antibodies as well as antigens in tissue-associated immune complexes.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin G from subacute sclerosing panencephalitis brain as an immunological reagent. Proteins were extracted at pH 2.5 from carefully washed brain homogenates of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Immunoglobulin G was isolated from the extracts by gel filtration and immunoadsorbent chromatography and was 125I radioiodinated. The labeled immunoglobulin G was reacted with purified measles virus antigens by crossed immunoelectrophoresis and utilized to identify antigens in measles-infected cell cultures and hamster brain tissue subjected to treatment corresponding to that used for elution of immunoglobulin G. The method described is useful in identifying the specific nature of antibodies as well as antigens in tissue-associated immune complexes.", "PMID": 457270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12578", "title": "Immune electron microscopy of cross-reactions between Mycoplasma pneumoniae and human erythrocytes.", "content": "Respiratory infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae evokes immunoglobulin M autoantibody which agglutinates human erythrocytes at 4 degrees C (cold agglutinin) and is specific for I antigen. Cross-reactions between surface antigens of M. pneumoniae and human erythrocytes, previously examined by serological analysis, were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Ferritin-labeled human antimycoplasmal and rabbit antisera to erythrocyte membrane components reacted with antigens on the surface of both M. pneumoniae and erythrocytes. Adsorption of human erythrocytes to M. pneumoniae was blocked by the same antisera without ferritin label. It is proposed that the cross-reactive specificity lies in peripheral areas of the mycoplasmal cell, probably in a surface carbohydrate which has antigenic identity with erythrocyte glycoprotein.", "contents": "Immune electron microscopy of cross-reactions between Mycoplasma pneumoniae and human erythrocytes. Respiratory infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae evokes immunoglobulin M autoantibody which agglutinates human erythrocytes at 4 degrees C (cold agglutinin) and is specific for I antigen. Cross-reactions between surface antigens of M. pneumoniae and human erythrocytes, previously examined by serological analysis, were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Ferritin-labeled human antimycoplasmal and rabbit antisera to erythrocyte membrane components reacted with antigens on the surface of both M. pneumoniae and erythrocytes. Adsorption of human erythrocytes to M. pneumoniae was blocked by the same antisera without ferritin label. It is proposed that the cross-reactive specificity lies in peripheral areas of the mycoplasmal cell, probably in a surface carbohydrate which has antigenic identity with erythrocyte glycoprotein.", "PMID": 457271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12579", "title": "Biotyping of Chlamydia psittaci based on inclusion morphology and response to diethylaminoethyl-dextran and cycloheximide.", "content": "Strains of Chlamydia psittaci from cattle, sheep, pigs, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, and parrots were subdivided based on their biological characteristics. Chlamydiae grown in the yolk sac of chicken embryos were used to infect L cell monolayers. The host cells were infected without further treatment or treated with diethylaminoethyl-dextran, cycloheximide, or both. The following criteria were used for biotyping the strains: the morphology of the inclusions and time after infection at which they appeared, the effect of chlamydial multiplication on the host cell cytoskeleton, and the change in the number of cells infected in response to diethylaminoethyl-dextran and cycloheximide. These properties were determined for 29 strains of C. psittaci. Based on the results, the strains were placed into eight biotypes.", "contents": "Biotyping of Chlamydia psittaci based on inclusion morphology and response to diethylaminoethyl-dextran and cycloheximide. Strains of Chlamydia psittaci from cattle, sheep, pigs, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, and parrots were subdivided based on their biological characteristics. Chlamydiae grown in the yolk sac of chicken embryos were used to infect L cell monolayers. The host cells were infected without further treatment or treated with diethylaminoethyl-dextran, cycloheximide, or both. The following criteria were used for biotyping the strains: the morphology of the inclusions and time after infection at which they appeared, the effect of chlamydial multiplication on the host cell cytoskeleton, and the change in the number of cells infected in response to diethylaminoethyl-dextran and cycloheximide. These properties were determined for 29 strains of C. psittaci. Based on the results, the strains were placed into eight biotypes.", "PMID": 457272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12580", "title": "Local antibody response in chickens: analysis of antibody synthesis to Newcastle disease virus by solid-phase radioimmunoassay and immunofluorescence with class-specific antibody for chicken immunoglobulins.", "content": "The antibody response to Newcastle disease virus was monitored in the sera and salivas of adult chickens immunized by two methods: (i) combined intratracheal-intranasal vaccination followed by intratracheal revaccination or (ii) intramuscular vaccination followed by intratracheal revaccination. By solid-phase radioimmunoassay, only immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgA antibodies to Newcastle disease virus were detected in the salivas, whereas IgA and IgM antibodies were present in egg whites. The first method produced the highest antibody levels in both serum and saliva and, in addition, prevented detectable virus multiplication in the respiratory tracts upon revaccination 4 weeks later. Plasma cells of all three classes were distributed throughout the tissues lining the oral cavities. The highest densities of plasma cells were in the Harderian glands; IgG was the predominant class, whereas IgA and IgM plasma cells were present in almost equal but lower numbers. The Harderian plasma cells were the most likely source of the antibody found in saliva.", "contents": "Local antibody response in chickens: analysis of antibody synthesis to Newcastle disease virus by solid-phase radioimmunoassay and immunofluorescence with class-specific antibody for chicken immunoglobulins. The antibody response to Newcastle disease virus was monitored in the sera and salivas of adult chickens immunized by two methods: (i) combined intratracheal-intranasal vaccination followed by intratracheal revaccination or (ii) intramuscular vaccination followed by intratracheal revaccination. By solid-phase radioimmunoassay, only immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgA antibodies to Newcastle disease virus were detected in the salivas, whereas IgA and IgM antibodies were present in egg whites. The first method produced the highest antibody levels in both serum and saliva and, in addition, prevented detectable virus multiplication in the respiratory tracts upon revaccination 4 weeks later. Plasma cells of all three classes were distributed throughout the tissues lining the oral cavities. The highest densities of plasma cells were in the Harderian glands; IgG was the predominant class, whereas IgA and IgM plasma cells were present in almost equal but lower numbers. The Harderian plasma cells were the most likely source of the antibody found in saliva.", "PMID": 457273} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12581", "title": "Enhancement of human neutrophil bactericidal activity by chemotactic factors.", "content": "Neutrophils are important effector cells in the defense against microorganisms. They migrate into infected sites and then phagocytose and kill bacteria. Chemotactic factors may be important for initiating neutrophil migration. We investigated whether chemotactic factors might also influence an event subsequent to chemotaxis, namely bacterial killing. It was found that preincubation (20 min at 37 degrees C) of human leukocytes with chemotactic substances such as zymosan-activated serum, a C5a-containing fraction of zymosan-activated serum, N-formyl methionyl phenylalanine or N-formyl methionyl-leucine-phenylalanine, enhanced leukocyte killing of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus faecalis in a dose-dependent fashion. The concentration of chemotactic factor required to enhance killing was similar to that required to induce neutrophil chemotaxis. In addition, zymosan-activated serum, C5a fraction, and the two N-formyl methionyl peptides increased the hexose monophosphate shunt activity of resting and phagocytosing neutrophils by two- to threefold. In contrast, bacterial killing by sodium azide-treated neutrophils and neutrophils from a patient with chronic granulomatous disease was not increased by any chemotactic factor. These findings suggest that chemotactic factors stimulate neutrophil oxygen-dependent microbicidal pathways. These observations illustrate another important contribution of biologically active molecules to effector cell function and host defense.", "contents": "Enhancement of human neutrophil bactericidal activity by chemotactic factors. Neutrophils are important effector cells in the defense against microorganisms. They migrate into infected sites and then phagocytose and kill bacteria. Chemotactic factors may be important for initiating neutrophil migration. We investigated whether chemotactic factors might also influence an event subsequent to chemotaxis, namely bacterial killing. It was found that preincubation (20 min at 37 degrees C) of human leukocytes with chemotactic substances such as zymosan-activated serum, a C5a-containing fraction of zymosan-activated serum, N-formyl methionyl phenylalanine or N-formyl methionyl-leucine-phenylalanine, enhanced leukocyte killing of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus faecalis in a dose-dependent fashion. The concentration of chemotactic factor required to enhance killing was similar to that required to induce neutrophil chemotaxis. In addition, zymosan-activated serum, C5a fraction, and the two N-formyl methionyl peptides increased the hexose monophosphate shunt activity of resting and phagocytosing neutrophils by two- to threefold. In contrast, bacterial killing by sodium azide-treated neutrophils and neutrophils from a patient with chronic granulomatous disease was not increased by any chemotactic factor. These findings suggest that chemotactic factors stimulate neutrophil oxygen-dependent microbicidal pathways. These observations illustrate another important contribution of biologically active molecules to effector cell function and host defense.", "PMID": 457274} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12582", "title": "Stimulation of the reticuloendothelial system of mice by muramyl dipeptide.", "content": "Muramyl dipeptide (MDP), a part of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans, was active as adjuvant and stimulated the reticuloendothelial system (RES) of mice to increase its phagocytic function. A series of analogs of MDP was tested for their adjuvant activity and RES-stimulating activity. Sex differences were observed in the adjuvant activity and RES-stimulating capacity of some MDP analogs. A stereochemically highly specific structure required for MDP to exert adjuvant activity was also required for its RES-stimulating activity. Based on this close correlation among the structure, adjuvant activity, and RES-stimulating capacity of MDP, we infer that macrophages may play an important role in the expression of adjuvant activity of MDP.", "contents": "Stimulation of the reticuloendothelial system of mice by muramyl dipeptide. Muramyl dipeptide (MDP), a part of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans, was active as adjuvant and stimulated the reticuloendothelial system (RES) of mice to increase its phagocytic function. A series of analogs of MDP was tested for their adjuvant activity and RES-stimulating activity. Sex differences were observed in the adjuvant activity and RES-stimulating capacity of some MDP analogs. A stereochemically highly specific structure required for MDP to exert adjuvant activity was also required for its RES-stimulating activity. Based on this close correlation among the structure, adjuvant activity, and RES-stimulating capacity of MDP, we infer that macrophages may play an important role in the expression of adjuvant activity of MDP.", "PMID": 457275} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12583", "title": "Inhibition of macrophage migration by muramyl peptides.", "content": "In the capillary tube migration system a synthetic muramyl dipeptide (MDP; N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine), a part of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans, inhibited the migration of peritoneal exudate macrophages from normal guinea pigs or rats. The migration inhibition was also caused by some MDP-containing peptidoglycan fragments from cell walls of Lactobacillus plantarum and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The migration inhibition could not be explained on the basis of macrophage migration inhibitory factor. A stereochemically highly specific structure of MDP required for its adjuvant activity was also required for the macrophage migration inhibition. These findings suggest that MDP and MDP-containing cell wall fragments may activate macrophages and that this activation may be important in the exertion of their adjuvant activity.", "contents": "Inhibition of macrophage migration by muramyl peptides. In the capillary tube migration system a synthetic muramyl dipeptide (MDP; N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine), a part of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans, inhibited the migration of peritoneal exudate macrophages from normal guinea pigs or rats. The migration inhibition was also caused by some MDP-containing peptidoglycan fragments from cell walls of Lactobacillus plantarum and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The migration inhibition could not be explained on the basis of macrophage migration inhibitory factor. A stereochemically highly specific structure of MDP required for its adjuvant activity was also required for the macrophage migration inhibition. These findings suggest that MDP and MDP-containing cell wall fragments may activate macrophages and that this activation may be important in the exertion of their adjuvant activity.", "PMID": 457276} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12584", "title": "Adjuvant activities in production of reaginic antibody by bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan or synthetic N-acetylmuramyl dipeptides in mice.", "content": "This paper is concerned with the adjuvant activity in stimulatory immunoglobulin E production against ovalbumin (OA) by bacterial cell walls, cell wall peptidoglycan (PG), and their PG fragments and synthetic N-acetylmuramyl (MurNAc) dipeptides in A/J mice. A PG isolated from Streptococcus pyogenes, PG subunit polymer and dimer obtained from Staphylococcus epidermidis, and water-soluble fragments of cell walls or PG prepared from Nocardia corynebacteriodes and Streptomyces gardneri were found to enhance both the primary and secondary responses of anti-OA immunoglobulin E antibody production. It was suggested that the PG portion, either intact or highly degraded, was capable of enhancing the immunoglobulin E antibody production, and there was no need for the non-PG moiety or intactness of PG structure for the adjuvant activity. This finding was confirmed and extended by the use of synthetic MurNAc dipeptides. Among eight MurNAc dipeptides tested, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-isoGln, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-Gln, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-Glu, and MurNAc-l-Ser-d-isoGln were found active as an adjuvant in the stimulation of the primary and secondary reaginic anti-OA antibody production in a similar way to the cell wall PG and their fragments. None of the synthetic MurNAc-l-Ala-l-isoGln, MurNAc-l-Ala-l-Gln, MurNAc-l-Ala-l-Glu, and MurNAc-l-Ala-d-isoAsn, on the other hand, stimulated the anti-OA immunoglobulin E antibody production in either primary or secondary response, indicating the importance for the adjuvancy in immunoglobulin E production of the configuration of the glutamic acid residues adjacent to the l-Ala (or l-Ser) in muramyl dipeptides.", "contents": "Adjuvant activities in production of reaginic antibody by bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan or synthetic N-acetylmuramyl dipeptides in mice. This paper is concerned with the adjuvant activity in stimulatory immunoglobulin E production against ovalbumin (OA) by bacterial cell walls, cell wall peptidoglycan (PG), and their PG fragments and synthetic N-acetylmuramyl (MurNAc) dipeptides in A/J mice. A PG isolated from Streptococcus pyogenes, PG subunit polymer and dimer obtained from Staphylococcus epidermidis, and water-soluble fragments of cell walls or PG prepared from Nocardia corynebacteriodes and Streptomyces gardneri were found to enhance both the primary and secondary responses of anti-OA immunoglobulin E antibody production. It was suggested that the PG portion, either intact or highly degraded, was capable of enhancing the immunoglobulin E antibody production, and there was no need for the non-PG moiety or intactness of PG structure for the adjuvant activity. This finding was confirmed and extended by the use of synthetic MurNAc dipeptides. Among eight MurNAc dipeptides tested, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-isoGln, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-Gln, MurNAc-l-Ala-d-Glu, and MurNAc-l-Ser-d-isoGln were found active as an adjuvant in the stimulation of the primary and secondary reaginic anti-OA antibody production in a similar way to the cell wall PG and their fragments. None of the synthetic MurNAc-l-Ala-l-isoGln, MurNAc-l-Ala-l-Gln, MurNAc-l-Ala-l-Glu, and MurNAc-l-Ala-d-isoAsn, on the other hand, stimulated the anti-OA immunoglobulin E antibody production in either primary or secondary response, indicating the importance for the adjuvancy in immunoglobulin E production of the configuration of the glutamic acid residues adjacent to the l-Ala (or l-Ser) in muramyl dipeptides.", "PMID": 457277} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12585", "title": "Hepatitis B e-antigen and its correlation with other serological markers in chimpanzees.", "content": "Three chimpanzees experimentally infected with hepatitis B virus, and another three chimpanzees that were hepatitis surface antigen carriers, were studied for the presence of viral antigens and humoral immune responses. Quantitative analyses of hepatitis B surface and e-antigens in sequential serum samples at early acute stages revealed cyclic oscillations of these two antigens following a synchronous pattern. Similar analyses of anti-e-antigen and anti-hepatitis B core antigen antibodies from the three experimentally infected primates indicated that peak titers of these two antibodies occurred as surface antigen decreased to undetectable levels. Of the three surface-antigen carriers, two were positive for e-antigen and one was positive for e-antigen antibody for the entire course of surveillance (8, 9, and 22 months, respectively).", "contents": "Hepatitis B e-antigen and its correlation with other serological markers in chimpanzees. Three chimpanzees experimentally infected with hepatitis B virus, and another three chimpanzees that were hepatitis surface antigen carriers, were studied for the presence of viral antigens and humoral immune responses. Quantitative analyses of hepatitis B surface and e-antigens in sequential serum samples at early acute stages revealed cyclic oscillations of these two antigens following a synchronous pattern. Similar analyses of anti-e-antigen and anti-hepatitis B core antigen antibodies from the three experimentally infected primates indicated that peak titers of these two antibodies occurred as surface antigen decreased to undetectable levels. Of the three surface-antigen carriers, two were positive for e-antigen and one was positive for e-antigen antibody for the entire course of surveillance (8, 9, and 22 months, respectively).", "PMID": 457278} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12586", "title": "Suppression of local intestinal immunoglobulin A immune response to cholera toxin by subcutaneous administration of cholera toxoids.", "content": "Cholera toxin has been shown to modulate immune responses, generally producing enhancement when administered simultaneously with antigen and suppression when administered a day or more earlier. In a previous study using chronically isolated ileal loops in rabbits, we found that two subcutaneous (s.c.) \"priming\" and \"boosting\" doses of biologically active cholera toxin suppressed the local intestinal immunoglobulin A response to intraloop doses of cholera toxin. In the study reported here, two different biologically inactive but antigenically intact cholera toxoids, glutaraldehyde toxoid and choleragenoid, where administered s.c. by the same immunization schedule as for toxin in the earlier experiment. Suppression of local immune response to intraloop cholera toxin as compared with animals receiving no s.c. inoculations was again found. The results suggest that in this model suppression was immunological (mediated by an immunological mechanism) rather than toxigenic (mediated by biological activity of cholera toxin). In addition, the occurrence of suppression of local intestinal immune response after systemic immunization suggests that suboptimal protection against enteric infections could occur after s.c. vaccination.", "contents": "Suppression of local intestinal immunoglobulin A immune response to cholera toxin by subcutaneous administration of cholera toxoids. Cholera toxin has been shown to modulate immune responses, generally producing enhancement when administered simultaneously with antigen and suppression when administered a day or more earlier. In a previous study using chronically isolated ileal loops in rabbits, we found that two subcutaneous (s.c.) \"priming\" and \"boosting\" doses of biologically active cholera toxin suppressed the local intestinal immunoglobulin A response to intraloop doses of cholera toxin. In the study reported here, two different biologically inactive but antigenically intact cholera toxoids, glutaraldehyde toxoid and choleragenoid, where administered s.c. by the same immunization schedule as for toxin in the earlier experiment. Suppression of local immune response to intraloop cholera toxin as compared with animals receiving no s.c. inoculations was again found. The results suggest that in this model suppression was immunological (mediated by an immunological mechanism) rather than toxigenic (mediated by biological activity of cholera toxin). In addition, the occurrence of suppression of local intestinal immune response after systemic immunization suggests that suboptimal protection against enteric infections could occur after s.c. vaccination.", "PMID": 457279} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12587", "title": "Abortion in laboratory animals induced by Moraxella bovis.", "content": "Pregnant mice, guinea pigs, rats, and rabbits responded to injections of Moraxella bovis strain EPP-63(300) with abortion, death, embryo resorption, and production of small litters. The nature of response appeared to depend primarily on the number of viable cells injected and to some extent on the species of animal and stage of pregnancy. Intraperitoneal injection of mice with 3 X 10(5) viable cells induced 100% abortion and no deaths. Embryo resorption and smaller litters were induced with injection of lower doses of M. bovis. None of the rats used in this study aborted; however, resorption rates were higher in rats than mice. Bacteria-free filtrates prepared from aqueous extracts of blood agar on which M. bovis had been grown induced abortion in mice and guinea pigs, at a rate similar to that caused by viable cells. The lyophilized filtrate could be diluted to produce 100% abortion with no death of injected mice. Abortion-inducing, nonlethal doses of M. bovis and lyophilized filtrates appeared to have no effect on nonpregnant female or male mice.", "contents": "Abortion in laboratory animals induced by Moraxella bovis. Pregnant mice, guinea pigs, rats, and rabbits responded to injections of Moraxella bovis strain EPP-63(300) with abortion, death, embryo resorption, and production of small litters. The nature of response appeared to depend primarily on the number of viable cells injected and to some extent on the species of animal and stage of pregnancy. Intraperitoneal injection of mice with 3 X 10(5) viable cells induced 100% abortion and no deaths. Embryo resorption and smaller litters were induced with injection of lower doses of M. bovis. None of the rats used in this study aborted; however, resorption rates were higher in rats than mice. Bacteria-free filtrates prepared from aqueous extracts of blood agar on which M. bovis had been grown induced abortion in mice and guinea pigs, at a rate similar to that caused by viable cells. The lyophilized filtrate could be diluted to produce 100% abortion with no death of injected mice. Abortion-inducing, nonlethal doses of M. bovis and lyophilized filtrates appeared to have no effect on nonpregnant female or male mice.", "PMID": 457280} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12588", "title": "Depressed mitogen responsiveness of lymphocytes at skin temperature.", "content": "The responsiveness of murine lymphocytes and human peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, pokeweed mitogen, and endotoxin was tested in vitro at 32, 35, and 37 degrees C. The responses at 32 degrees C were delayed and often depressed. Mouse cells responded equally well at 35 and 37 degrees C. Human lymphocytes often responded more rapidly at 37 than at 35 degrees C. Since skin temperature, particularly that of the distal extremities, is usually 32 degrees C or less, a relative deficiency in cell-mediated immunity may exist in these sites. This may be part of the reason for the usual localization of certain infections, such as sporotrichosis, to these coller areas.", "contents": "Depressed mitogen responsiveness of lymphocytes at skin temperature. The responsiveness of murine lymphocytes and human peripheral blood lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, pokeweed mitogen, and endotoxin was tested in vitro at 32, 35, and 37 degrees C. The responses at 32 degrees C were delayed and often depressed. Mouse cells responded equally well at 35 and 37 degrees C. Human lymphocytes often responded more rapidly at 37 than at 35 degrees C. Since skin temperature, particularly that of the distal extremities, is usually 32 degrees C or less, a relative deficiency in cell-mediated immunity may exist in these sites. This may be part of the reason for the usual localization of certain infections, such as sporotrichosis, to these coller areas.", "PMID": 457281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12589", "title": "Two-dimensional gel electrophoretic comparison of proteins from virulent and avirulent strains of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.", "content": "The protein composition of the virulent M129 strain of Mycoplasma pneumoniae was compared to that of its homologous avirulent strain by the use of standard one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Forty-nine individual M. pneumoniae cell proteins were resolved by this method, and the virulent strain was shown to possess a single high-molecular-weight protein not present in avirulent cells. Variability in the resolution of this particular protein in one-dimensional gels prompted the application of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to the analysis of M. pneumoniae cell proteins. The sequential use of isoelectric focusing in the first dimension and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the second dimension permitted the resolution of a least 142 individual M. pneumoniae cell proteins. Application of nonequilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis in the first dimension achieved the resolution of at least 20 additional basic proteins. Three proteins which are synthesized only by cells of the virulent strain, and not by the homologous avirulent strain, were identified by these two-dimensional gel electrophoresis techniques.", "contents": "Two-dimensional gel electrophoretic comparison of proteins from virulent and avirulent strains of Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The protein composition of the virulent M129 strain of Mycoplasma pneumoniae was compared to that of its homologous avirulent strain by the use of standard one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Forty-nine individual M. pneumoniae cell proteins were resolved by this method, and the virulent strain was shown to possess a single high-molecular-weight protein not present in avirulent cells. Variability in the resolution of this particular protein in one-dimensional gels prompted the application of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to the analysis of M. pneumoniae cell proteins. The sequential use of isoelectric focusing in the first dimension and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the second dimension permitted the resolution of a least 142 individual M. pneumoniae cell proteins. Application of nonequilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis in the first dimension achieved the resolution of at least 20 additional basic proteins. Three proteins which are synthesized only by cells of the virulent strain, and not by the homologous avirulent strain, were identified by these two-dimensional gel electrophoresis techniques.", "PMID": 457282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12590", "title": "Streptococcal infection of endocardial and other intravascular vegetations in rabbits: natural history and effect of dexamethasone.", "content": "Experiments were designed to study the natural history of infection in different parts of the vascular system. Sterile vegetations were produced in rabbits by placing catheters in the inferior vena cava, tricuspid or aortic valves, and thoracic or abdominal aorta and then were infected by the intravenous inoculation of Streptococcus sanguis. At 1 day after bacterial challenge, all VEGS were infected, mean bacterial densities being highest in the VEGS of the aortic and tricuspid valves. By 14 days, there was a significant decrease in the mean bacterial density in all VEGS except for the aortic valve: the VEGS of the inferior vena cava and abdominal aorta were sterile, as were half of those of the thoracic aorta. There were no deaths except for animals with aortic valve infection. Dexamethasone inhibited the sterilization of the thoracic aorta VEGS, but was without effect on aortic valve VEGS, 5 mm distant. Sterilization of tricuspid valve VEGS after catheter removal was also inhibited by dexamethasone. Thus, there are host defense mechanisms which lead to the sterilization of infections everywhere in the vascular system except in the left side of the heart, and these mechanisms, as yet undefined, are inhibited by dexamethasone.", "contents": "Streptococcal infection of endocardial and other intravascular vegetations in rabbits: natural history and effect of dexamethasone. Experiments were designed to study the natural history of infection in different parts of the vascular system. Sterile vegetations were produced in rabbits by placing catheters in the inferior vena cava, tricuspid or aortic valves, and thoracic or abdominal aorta and then were infected by the intravenous inoculation of Streptococcus sanguis. At 1 day after bacterial challenge, all VEGS were infected, mean bacterial densities being highest in the VEGS of the aortic and tricuspid valves. By 14 days, there was a significant decrease in the mean bacterial density in all VEGS except for the aortic valve: the VEGS of the inferior vena cava and abdominal aorta were sterile, as were half of those of the thoracic aorta. There were no deaths except for animals with aortic valve infection. Dexamethasone inhibited the sterilization of the thoracic aorta VEGS, but was without effect on aortic valve VEGS, 5 mm distant. Sterilization of tricuspid valve VEGS after catheter removal was also inhibited by dexamethasone. Thus, there are host defense mechanisms which lead to the sterilization of infections everywhere in the vascular system except in the left side of the heart, and these mechanisms, as yet undefined, are inhibited by dexamethasone.", "PMID": 457283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12591", "title": "Suppression of tuberculin hypersensitivity during influenza infection in mice.", "content": "Tuberculin hypersensitivity was examined during acute influenza infection in mice. Employing the footpad test as a measure of delayed-type hypersensitivity, it was noted that tuberculin hypersensitivity was suppressed temporarily beginning on day 3 and continuing through days 10 to 16 following intranasal infection with influenza A/PR8. These changes occurred at a time when influenza virus was replicating in lung tissue. Suppression of footpad swelling was not detected when mice were administered live virus intravenously, were given Formalin-inactivated virus intranasally, or were immunized against influenza before intranasal infection. Transient reduction of total circulating lymphocytes also occurred during influenza infection but did not correlate with the duration of footpad suppression. Because this model system reproduces many of the alterations in immunological function reported to occur during influenza infection in humans, it should provide a useful tool for investigating mechanisms of influenza-induced immunosuppression.", "contents": "Suppression of tuberculin hypersensitivity during influenza infection in mice. Tuberculin hypersensitivity was examined during acute influenza infection in mice. Employing the footpad test as a measure of delayed-type hypersensitivity, it was noted that tuberculin hypersensitivity was suppressed temporarily beginning on day 3 and continuing through days 10 to 16 following intranasal infection with influenza A/PR8. These changes occurred at a time when influenza virus was replicating in lung tissue. Suppression of footpad swelling was not detected when mice were administered live virus intravenously, were given Formalin-inactivated virus intranasally, or were immunized against influenza before intranasal infection. Transient reduction of total circulating lymphocytes also occurred during influenza infection but did not correlate with the duration of footpad suppression. Because this model system reproduces many of the alterations in immunological function reported to occur during influenza infection in humans, it should provide a useful tool for investigating mechanisms of influenza-induced immunosuppression.", "PMID": 457284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12592", "title": "Electrophoresis of buffalo (bos bubalis) serum proteins including immunoglobulins.", "content": "Antigenic components of buffalo (Bos bubalis) serum, which were also components of buffalo colostrum, seminal plasma, milk whey, saliva, and tears, were investigated by the ager gel diffusion test and immunoelectrophoresis. Immunoglobulins of buffalo serum were identified by immunoelectrophoresis employing rabbit-anti-buffalo serum and rabbit-anti-buffalo gamma-globulin. Based on immunoelectrophoretic patterns immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgGA, and IgM were detected both in the serum and colostrum of buffaloes. Tears contained both IgG and IgM. Cross-reactions of buffalo serum with seminal plasma, saliva, and milk whey were observed only in the IgG region. By polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, lipoprotein (5.2% +/- 0.41), IgM (11.4% +/- 3.1), IgG (9.4% +/- 0.98), haptoglobin 21.8% +/- 3.73), transferrin (10.4% +/- 2.15), ceruloplasmin (7.8% +/- 1.3), postalbumin (20.8% +/- 2.09), and albumin (13.7% +/- 0.75) were identified provisionally.", "contents": "Electrophoresis of buffalo (bos bubalis) serum proteins including immunoglobulins. Antigenic components of buffalo (Bos bubalis) serum, which were also components of buffalo colostrum, seminal plasma, milk whey, saliva, and tears, were investigated by the ager gel diffusion test and immunoelectrophoresis. Immunoglobulins of buffalo serum were identified by immunoelectrophoresis employing rabbit-anti-buffalo serum and rabbit-anti-buffalo gamma-globulin. Based on immunoelectrophoretic patterns immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgGA, and IgM were detected both in the serum and colostrum of buffaloes. Tears contained both IgG and IgM. Cross-reactions of buffalo serum with seminal plasma, saliva, and milk whey were observed only in the IgG region. By polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, lipoprotein (5.2% +/- 0.41), IgM (11.4% +/- 3.1), IgG (9.4% +/- 0.98), haptoglobin 21.8% +/- 3.73), transferrin (10.4% +/- 2.15), ceruloplasmin (7.8% +/- 1.3), postalbumin (20.8% +/- 2.09), and albumin (13.7% +/- 0.75) were identified provisionally.", "PMID": 457285} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12593", "title": "Mechanism of lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis: requirement for lipopolysaccharide-sensitive lymphoreticular cells.", "content": "Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces rapid necrosis of intradermal fibrosarcomas in mice. The mechanism(s) by which LPS produces tumor necrosis has been investigated using histocompatible LPS-sensitive (C3H/HeN) and LPS-resistant (C3H/HeJ) mouse strains. C3H/HeN- or C3H/HeJ-derived fibrosarcomas were necrotized by LPS when they were grafted onto C3H/HeN mice but were not affected when growing on C3H/HeJ mice, indicating that LPS does not act directly on the tumor itself. In contrast, lethally X-irradiated C3H/HeJ mice exhibit necrosis of their tumors when reconstituted with C3H/HeN bone marrow cells, whereas C3H/HeN mice no longer exert LPS-induced tumor necrosis after the adoptive transfer of C3H/HeJ bone marrow cells. These findings clearly indicate that LPS produces necrosis of tumors by activating host lymphoreticular cells.", "contents": "Mechanism of lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis: requirement for lipopolysaccharide-sensitive lymphoreticular cells. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces rapid necrosis of intradermal fibrosarcomas in mice. The mechanism(s) by which LPS produces tumor necrosis has been investigated using histocompatible LPS-sensitive (C3H/HeN) and LPS-resistant (C3H/HeJ) mouse strains. C3H/HeN- or C3H/HeJ-derived fibrosarcomas were necrotized by LPS when they were grafted onto C3H/HeN mice but were not affected when growing on C3H/HeJ mice, indicating that LPS does not act directly on the tumor itself. In contrast, lethally X-irradiated C3H/HeJ mice exhibit necrosis of their tumors when reconstituted with C3H/HeN bone marrow cells, whereas C3H/HeN mice no longer exert LPS-induced tumor necrosis after the adoptive transfer of C3H/HeJ bone marrow cells. These findings clearly indicate that LPS produces necrosis of tumors by activating host lymphoreticular cells.", "PMID": 457286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12594", "title": "Effect of sulfolipid I on trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate (cord factor) toxicity and antitumor activity.", "content": "Emulsified mixtures of sulfolipid I and trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate (cord factor) had tumor-regressive activity comparable to, but less toxic than, emulsified trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate alone.", "contents": "Effect of sulfolipid I on trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate (cord factor) toxicity and antitumor activity. Emulsified mixtures of sulfolipid I and trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate (cord factor) had tumor-regressive activity comparable to, but less toxic than, emulsified trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate alone.", "PMID": 457287} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12595", "title": "Differential effects of interferon on the MHC expression of human lymphocytes. Enhanced expression of HLA without effect on Ia.", "content": "HLA antigens are the principal serologically detectable products of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), and they function as targets for antibody-mediated and cell-mediated cytolysis. Anti-HLA sera were used in a quantitative absorption procedure to study the effect of interferon (IF) treatment on HLA expression. This study was undertaken since IF has been shown to play an important role in the regulation of cell division and function. We found that IF enhanced the expression of HLA antigens on human peripheral blood lymphocytes by 8-fold. This increase in HLA expression was specific for both the HLA-A and HLA-B regions of the MHC. There was no increase in the expression of the Ia region after IF treatment as opposed to the HLA region. Since IF is an antiviral agent and it also enhances the expression the HLA-A and HLA-B regions, it may be involved in the elimination of virus-infected cells by A and B identical effector cells.", "contents": "Differential effects of interferon on the MHC expression of human lymphocytes. Enhanced expression of HLA without effect on Ia. HLA antigens are the principal serologically detectable products of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), and they function as targets for antibody-mediated and cell-mediated cytolysis. Anti-HLA sera were used in a quantitative absorption procedure to study the effect of interferon (IF) treatment on HLA expression. This study was undertaken since IF has been shown to play an important role in the regulation of cell division and function. We found that IF enhanced the expression of HLA antigens on human peripheral blood lymphocytes by 8-fold. This increase in HLA expression was specific for both the HLA-A and HLA-B regions of the MHC. There was no increase in the expression of the Ia region after IF treatment as opposed to the HLA region. Since IF is an antiviral agent and it also enhances the expression the HLA-A and HLA-B regions, it may be involved in the elimination of virus-infected cells by A and B identical effector cells.", "PMID": 457294} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12596", "title": "Paul-Bunnell antigen in malignancies and rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "By means of agglutination inhibition test, Paul-Bunnell (P-B) antigen was demonstrated in sera of patients with cancer (5%), lymphomas or leukemias (12.5%) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (1.4%) as well as in synovial fluids from RA patients (27%). In contrast, none of 124 normal human sera gave positive results. P-B antigen was also demonstrated in 3 of 12 perchloric acid extracts of cancer tissues and 2 of 11 saline extracts obtained at 100 degrees C from spleens of lymphoma-leukemia patients. Extracts of apparently normal tissues from 16 individuals gave negative results.", "contents": "Paul-Bunnell antigen in malignancies and rheumatoid arthritis. By means of agglutination inhibition test, Paul-Bunnell (P-B) antigen was demonstrated in sera of patients with cancer (5%), lymphomas or leukemias (12.5%) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (1.4%) as well as in synovial fluids from RA patients (27%). In contrast, none of 124 normal human sera gave positive results. P-B antigen was also demonstrated in 3 of 12 perchloric acid extracts of cancer tissues and 2 of 11 saline extracts obtained at 100 degrees C from spleens of lymphoma-leukemia patients. Extracts of apparently normal tissues from 16 individuals gave negative results.", "PMID": 457295} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12597", "title": "Effect of cyclophosphamide on the cellular infiltrate in experimental allergic contact dermatitis.", "content": "The influence of cyclophosphamide on contact allergy was studied by a method based on the count of cells infiltrating epicutaneous test sites in sensitized guinea pigs. Cyclophosphamide was injected 72 h before sensitization with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). On testing 2 weeks later, marked mononuclear cell infiltration and dramatic increase in the count of basophil polymorphonuclear cells in the upper corium were found, compared to the control group. Cell infiltration in tests performed 1 and 3 weeks after sensitization differed from the reaction after 2 weeks. When cyclophosphamide was given 72 h before testing done 2 weeks after sensitization, both mononuclear and polymorphonuclear counts were found to be greatly reduced. This in vivo method of assessing the degree and composition of cellular infiltration in a contact allergic reaction after different periods of time throws new light on the influence of drugs on a cell-mediated immune response and also the variation in response with time.", "contents": "Effect of cyclophosphamide on the cellular infiltrate in experimental allergic contact dermatitis. The influence of cyclophosphamide on contact allergy was studied by a method based on the count of cells infiltrating epicutaneous test sites in sensitized guinea pigs. Cyclophosphamide was injected 72 h before sensitization with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). On testing 2 weeks later, marked mononuclear cell infiltration and dramatic increase in the count of basophil polymorphonuclear cells in the upper corium were found, compared to the control group. Cell infiltration in tests performed 1 and 3 weeks after sensitization differed from the reaction after 2 weeks. When cyclophosphamide was given 72 h before testing done 2 weeks after sensitization, both mononuclear and polymorphonuclear counts were found to be greatly reduced. This in vivo method of assessing the degree and composition of cellular infiltration in a contact allergic reaction after different periods of time throws new light on the influence of drugs on a cell-mediated immune response and also the variation in response with time.", "PMID": 457296} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12598", "title": "Complement activation by rat platelets: its significance to inflammation in the rat.", "content": "Generation of chemotactic activity in rat plasma or serum by aggregated rat platelets or by an extract of lysed platelets has been demonstrated. Chemotactic activity was not generated from serum either in the absence of an intact complement system or by platelet lysate pre-incubated with soya bean trypsin inhibitor. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to some recent work on the role of platelets in inflammation.", "contents": "Complement activation by rat platelets: its significance to inflammation in the rat. Generation of chemotactic activity in rat plasma or serum by aggregated rat platelets or by an extract of lysed platelets has been demonstrated. Chemotactic activity was not generated from serum either in the absence of an intact complement system or by platelet lysate pre-incubated with soya bean trypsin inhibitor. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to some recent work on the role of platelets in inflammation.", "PMID": 457297} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12599", "title": "Serum factors affecting the incorporation of [3H]thymidine by lymphocytes stimulated by antigen. IV. Comparison of enhancement by heated (56 degrees C) serum and by 2-mercaptoethanol.", "content": "Serum preheated to 56 degrees C and 2-mercaptoethanol (ME) both enhance the stimulation (%) by antigen of [3H]thymidine incorporation by lymph node cells from immunized rabbits. The enhancements show several similar features suggesting a common mechanism. Both enhancements show (i) non-specific components, affecting [3H]thymidine incorporation in control and antigen-treated cultures proportionately, and (ii) antigen-specific components, having a greater proportionate effect on antigen-treated cultures than on control cultures. The non-specific components, in combination, are approximately additive. The specific components, in combination, are non-additive (mutually exclusive). With both preheated serum and ME the specific component of the enhancement is most evident late in the culture period and is greater at high antigen concentrations. The ME concentration needed for optimum enhancement is reduced if the serum concentration is reduced or if serum is preheated.", "contents": "Serum factors affecting the incorporation of [3H]thymidine by lymphocytes stimulated by antigen. IV. Comparison of enhancement by heated (56 degrees C) serum and by 2-mercaptoethanol. Serum preheated to 56 degrees C and 2-mercaptoethanol (ME) both enhance the stimulation (%) by antigen of [3H]thymidine incorporation by lymph node cells from immunized rabbits. The enhancements show several similar features suggesting a common mechanism. Both enhancements show (i) non-specific components, affecting [3H]thymidine incorporation in control and antigen-treated cultures proportionately, and (ii) antigen-specific components, having a greater proportionate effect on antigen-treated cultures than on control cultures. The non-specific components, in combination, are approximately additive. The specific components, in combination, are non-additive (mutually exclusive). With both preheated serum and ME the specific component of the enhancement is most evident late in the culture period and is greater at high antigen concentrations. The ME concentration needed for optimum enhancement is reduced if the serum concentration is reduced or if serum is preheated.", "PMID": 457298} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12600", "title": "Antibody formation in experimental amyloidosis.", "content": "In endotoxin-induced amyloidosis of mice it was found that all mouse strains formed antibodies specific for the type of endotoxin injected. In casein-induced amyloidosis, the animals form antibodies to certain components of the casein and most likely to whatever contaminating endotoxin is present. The antibodies formed seemed to be primarily of the IgG 1 subclass. Their appearance in high titer shows a good correlation with the onset of amyloid formation especially in mice given casein. Failure to form amyloid in these experimental models does not seem to be related to failure of antibody formation but may be explained by more effective clearance of immune complexes or other such factors.", "contents": "Antibody formation in experimental amyloidosis. In endotoxin-induced amyloidosis of mice it was found that all mouse strains formed antibodies specific for the type of endotoxin injected. In casein-induced amyloidosis, the animals form antibodies to certain components of the casein and most likely to whatever contaminating endotoxin is present. The antibodies formed seemed to be primarily of the IgG 1 subclass. Their appearance in high titer shows a good correlation with the onset of amyloid formation especially in mice given casein. Failure to form amyloid in these experimental models does not seem to be related to failure of antibody formation but may be explained by more effective clearance of immune complexes or other such factors.", "PMID": 457299} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12601", "title": "High oxygen pressure inhibits DNA synthesis in mitogen-activated lymphocytes.", "content": "Peripheral sheep lymphocytes, exposed to the mitogenic lectin phytohemagglutinin do not incorporate radiolabelled thymidine in cultures with a gas phase high in oxygen. Cells kept under nitrogen incorporate thymidine to the same extent or better than cells grown under air. The inhibition is proportional to the oxygen content of the gas phase. The inhibition is relieved if oxygen is replaced by air after some time but the onset of DNA synthesis is delayed correspondingly. It is suggested that oxygen may have a regulatory function on the onset of DNA synthesis.", "contents": "High oxygen pressure inhibits DNA synthesis in mitogen-activated lymphocytes. Peripheral sheep lymphocytes, exposed to the mitogenic lectin phytohemagglutinin do not incorporate radiolabelled thymidine in cultures with a gas phase high in oxygen. Cells kept under nitrogen incorporate thymidine to the same extent or better than cells grown under air. The inhibition is proportional to the oxygen content of the gas phase. The inhibition is relieved if oxygen is replaced by air after some time but the onset of DNA synthesis is delayed correspondingly. It is suggested that oxygen may have a regulatory function on the onset of DNA synthesis.", "PMID": 457300} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12602", "title": "Stability of peritoneal urea clearance in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (18 months experience with CAPD).", "content": "A group of 13 patients on Continous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis up to 18 months was studied. During the study period, Peritoneal Urea Clearance was stable. In all but 2 cases peritonitis did not depress the efficiency in clearing urea. When Peritoneal Urea Clearance was corrected for 1.73 m2 surface area, there was on the average an 11.8% increase over not corrected clearance rates. This increase was statistically significant.", "contents": "Stability of peritoneal urea clearance in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (18 months experience with CAPD). A group of 13 patients on Continous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis up to 18 months was studied. During the study period, Peritoneal Urea Clearance was stable. In all but 2 cases peritonitis did not depress the efficiency in clearing urea. When Peritoneal Urea Clearance was corrected for 1.73 m2 surface area, there was on the average an 11.8% increase over not corrected clearance rates. This increase was statistically significant.", "PMID": 457303} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12603", "title": "A two and one half year clinical experience with a mechanical left ventricular assist pump in the treatment of profound postoperative heart failure.", "content": "A sac-type paracorporeal left ventricular assist pump was implanted in 9 patients suffering from profound left ventricular failure following open heart surgery. Two patients had good recovery of left ventricular function and were weaned from assist. One survived 14 months postoperatively. Primary causes of death among the remaining patients were (1) primary right ventricular failure, (2) assist pump inlet cannula obstruction and (3) excessive bleeding. The strategies developed or proposed to deal with these problems include, respectively: (1) biventricular assist for patients with concomitant right ventricular failure; (2) cannulation of the left atrium to avoid inlet cannula obstruction by the left ventricular wall and intraventricular septum; (3) more rapid selection of left assist candidates and more rapid implantation techniques to reduce the coagulopathy associated with prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass, and an effective autotransfusion system to augment blood replacement.", "contents": "A two and one half year clinical experience with a mechanical left ventricular assist pump in the treatment of profound postoperative heart failure. A sac-type paracorporeal left ventricular assist pump was implanted in 9 patients suffering from profound left ventricular failure following open heart surgery. Two patients had good recovery of left ventricular function and were weaned from assist. One survived 14 months postoperatively. Primary causes of death among the remaining patients were (1) primary right ventricular failure, (2) assist pump inlet cannula obstruction and (3) excessive bleeding. The strategies developed or proposed to deal with these problems include, respectively: (1) biventricular assist for patients with concomitant right ventricular failure; (2) cannulation of the left atrium to avoid inlet cannula obstruction by the left ventricular wall and intraventricular septum; (3) more rapid selection of left assist candidates and more rapid implantation techniques to reduce the coagulopathy associated with prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass, and an effective autotransfusion system to augment blood replacement.", "PMID": 457304} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12604", "title": "Urea and ammonium removal based on alkalinization and removal of free ammonia.", "content": "A novel approach is reported for the removal of ammonium formed from the conversion of urea by urease. By alkalinization, ammonium is converted into free ammonia. Free ammonia can then be very easily removed by a number of approaches: as gaseous ammonia by air bubbling, oxygenator, or air ventilation; by adsorbent for free ammonia; or other approaches.", "contents": "Urea and ammonium removal based on alkalinization and removal of free ammonia. A novel approach is reported for the removal of ammonium formed from the conversion of urea by urease. By alkalinization, ammonium is converted into free ammonia. Free ammonia can then be very easily removed by a number of approaches: as gaseous ammonia by air bubbling, oxygenator, or air ventilation; by adsorbent for free ammonia; or other approaches.", "PMID": 457305} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12605", "title": "In-vitro assessment of the removal of phenols by ACAC hemoperfusion.", "content": "The in-vitro removal of free phenols by means of perfusion over albumin coated cellulose nitrate microencapsulated activated charcoal (ACAC) was studied. The phenols tested were in the form of a standard solution comprised of phenol, p-cresol, and p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid in a ratio of 1:5:14. Four different activated charcoals were tested for their adsorption capacity. Further studies were conducted to determine; the effect of microencapsulation and albumin coating of the activated charcoal on the adsorption of phenols; the adsorption isotherm of phenols; the capacity; and the clearance values. The results obtained suggest that ACAC used in the management of patients with uremia or hepatic coma is extremely efficient in removing phenols in aqueous solution in the in-vitro situation.", "contents": "In-vitro assessment of the removal of phenols by ACAC hemoperfusion. The in-vitro removal of free phenols by means of perfusion over albumin coated cellulose nitrate microencapsulated activated charcoal (ACAC) was studied. The phenols tested were in the form of a standard solution comprised of phenol, p-cresol, and p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid in a ratio of 1:5:14. Four different activated charcoals were tested for their adsorption capacity. Further studies were conducted to determine; the effect of microencapsulation and albumin coating of the activated charcoal on the adsorption of phenols; the adsorption isotherm of phenols; the capacity; and the clearance values. The results obtained suggest that ACAC used in the management of patients with uremia or hepatic coma is extremely efficient in removing phenols in aqueous solution in the in-vitro situation.", "PMID": 457306} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12606", "title": "Methylation of DNA in target and non-target organs of the rat with methylbenzylnitrosamine and dimethylnitrosamine.", "content": "The sites of labelling of DNA with [14C]methyl groups from methylbenzylnitrosamine and dimethylnitrosamine were studied in rat oesophageal epithelium and liver. All four combinations of tissue and carcinogen were studied. Tissues were labelled in vitro and the DNA contained therein purified and hydrolysed (pH 1, 37 degrees C) to free purines and apurinic acid. Quantitative analysis was performed with the aid of thin-layer chromatography. The apurinic acid and 7-methylguanine fractions were found to be extensively labelled. Smaller amounts of radioactivity were found in O6-methylguanine and some of the methylated adenines. The same carcinogen produced different patterns of labelling is oesophageal and liver DNA. The proportion of O6-methylguanine to 7-methylguanine was higher when the methylating agent was a carcinogen specific for the organ.", "contents": "Methylation of DNA in target and non-target organs of the rat with methylbenzylnitrosamine and dimethylnitrosamine. The sites of labelling of DNA with [14C]methyl groups from methylbenzylnitrosamine and dimethylnitrosamine were studied in rat oesophageal epithelium and liver. All four combinations of tissue and carcinogen were studied. Tissues were labelled in vitro and the DNA contained therein purified and hydrolysed (pH 1, 37 degrees C) to free purines and apurinic acid. Quantitative analysis was performed with the aid of thin-layer chromatography. The apurinic acid and 7-methylguanine fractions were found to be extensively labelled. Smaller amounts of radioactivity were found in O6-methylguanine and some of the methylated adenines. The same carcinogen produced different patterns of labelling is oesophageal and liver DNA. The proportion of O6-methylguanine to 7-methylguanine was higher when the methylating agent was a carcinogen specific for the organ.", "PMID": 457309} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12607", "title": "Transplanted cultured cells from pregnancy-dependent mammary tumors have a heterogenous developmental potential.", "content": "Cultured cells derived from pregnancy-dependent mouse mammary tumors (plaques) when transplanted into the gland-free mammary fat pad display a heterogeneous developmental potential. They not only gave rise to plaques but also produced normal mammary gland, hyperplastic alvoelar nodules (HAN), and autonomous mammary tumors.", "contents": "Transplanted cultured cells from pregnancy-dependent mammary tumors have a heterogenous developmental potential. Cultured cells derived from pregnancy-dependent mouse mammary tumors (plaques) when transplanted into the gland-free mammary fat pad display a heterogeneous developmental potential. They not only gave rise to plaques but also produced normal mammary gland, hyperplastic alvoelar nodules (HAN), and autonomous mammary tumors.", "PMID": 457310} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12608", "title": "Volar melanotic macules.", "content": "Asymptomatic light brown or tannish-gray macules are seen on palms and/or soles of black patients, and occasionally on the volar surfaces of whites. They may be mistaken for lesions of secondary syphilis or other postinflammatory hyperpigmented dermatoses. Histologic examination of 14 specimens obtained at necropsy showed purely epidermal hyperpigmentation of all epidermal layers; or (3) melanin restricted to large dendritic melanocytes without appreciable transfer to keratinocytes. The number of melanocytes was not significantly increased, and with one exception, there were no nevus cells. These volar melanotic macules have close clinical and histologic resemblance to melanotic macules observed occasionally on the vermillion area of the lips.", "contents": "Volar melanotic macules. Asymptomatic light brown or tannish-gray macules are seen on palms and/or soles of black patients, and occasionally on the volar surfaces of whites. They may be mistaken for lesions of secondary syphilis or other postinflammatory hyperpigmented dermatoses. Histologic examination of 14 specimens obtained at necropsy showed purely epidermal hyperpigmentation of all epidermal layers; or (3) melanin restricted to large dendritic melanocytes without appreciable transfer to keratinocytes. The number of melanocytes was not significantly increased, and with one exception, there were no nevus cells. These volar melanotic macules have close clinical and histologic resemblance to melanotic macules observed occasionally on the vermillion area of the lips.", "PMID": 457315} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12609", "title": "Systemic absorption of topical salicylic acid.", "content": "The systemic absorption of salicylic acid in humans following topical application in either hydrophilic ointment or polyethylene glycol 400 vehicle was studied. Drug absorption was minimal following application to intact skin; however, measurable levels (8 mg/dl) were attained when the stratum corneum was removed prior to application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment. A one-compartment open model with first order absorption and elimination processes was fitted to the plasma salicylate concentrations as a function of time. Computer simulations predict that plasma salicylate levels associated with toxicity in some patients may be present after repetitive application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment.", "contents": "Systemic absorption of topical salicylic acid. The systemic absorption of salicylic acid in humans following topical application in either hydrophilic ointment or polyethylene glycol 400 vehicle was studied. Drug absorption was minimal following application to intact skin; however, measurable levels (8 mg/dl) were attained when the stratum corneum was removed prior to application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment. A one-compartment open model with first order absorption and elimination processes was fitted to the plasma salicylate concentrations as a function of time. Computer simulations predict that plasma salicylate levels associated with toxicity in some patients may be present after repetitive application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment.", "PMID": 457316} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12610", "title": "Demographic study of head lice infestations in Sacramento County school children.", "content": "Head lice infestations have become a problem in school children in Sacramento County. An open study was conducted to determine how widespread head lice infestations were among preschool and elementary school children in Sacramento County and to see how effective a newly marked ever-the-counter pediculicide containing 0.3% pyrethrins synergized by 3.0% piperonyl butoxide was. The public health nurse for this study visited the homes of all reported patients infested with head lice. She verified and provided the pyrethrins-based treatment for 248 children, aged 6 months to 12 years. The children were Caucasian, Mexican-American, black and other ethnic backgrounds and from low, middle and upper income levels. All the patients were successfully treated, and the school children were able to return to their classs in a short time.", "contents": "Demographic study of head lice infestations in Sacramento County school children. Head lice infestations have become a problem in school children in Sacramento County. An open study was conducted to determine how widespread head lice infestations were among preschool and elementary school children in Sacramento County and to see how effective a newly marked ever-the-counter pediculicide containing 0.3% pyrethrins synergized by 3.0% piperonyl butoxide was. The public health nurse for this study visited the homes of all reported patients infested with head lice. She verified and provided the pyrethrins-based treatment for 248 children, aged 6 months to 12 years. The children were Caucasian, Mexican-American, black and other ethnic backgrounds and from low, middle and upper income levels. All the patients were successfully treated, and the school children were able to return to their classs in a short time.", "PMID": 457325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12611", "title": "Theoretical conformational analysis of oxytocin molecule.", "content": "The total semi-empirical conformational analysis of the oxytocin molecule has been carried out. It has been revealed the two main types of stable structures of cyclic moiety backbone and the great lability of the tail. The optimal spacing of cyclic moiety side chains has been found for every backbone structure. The calculation results are in good agreement with the data of physico-chemical investigations. Among the set of stable molecule structures reported in the present study are structures with beta-turn conformation of the cyclic moiety backbone and without closer spacing of the cyclic moiety and the tail, as well as structures with closely spaced N- and C-terminal parts which, however, lack beta-turn in the cyclic moiety.", "contents": "Theoretical conformational analysis of oxytocin molecule. The total semi-empirical conformational analysis of the oxytocin molecule has been carried out. It has been revealed the two main types of stable structures of cyclic moiety backbone and the great lability of the tail. The optimal spacing of cyclic moiety side chains has been found for every backbone structure. The calculation results are in good agreement with the data of physico-chemical investigations. Among the set of stable molecule structures reported in the present study are structures with beta-turn conformation of the cyclic moiety backbone and without closer spacing of the cyclic moiety and the tail, as well as structures with closely spaced N- and C-terminal parts which, however, lack beta-turn in the cyclic moiety.", "PMID": 457331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12612", "title": "X-ray study on homo-oligopeptides t-BOC-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe.", "content": "Observations of extended peptide chains, whose direction is perpendicular to the fiber axis (cross-beta-structures) have hitherto been confined to fibrous proteins and to some synthetic polydisperse polypeptides of rather low molecular weight. This structure has now been found in some monodisperse linear homo-oligopeptides with aliphatic hydrocarbon side chains. X-ray diffraction photographs of t-Boc-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe show characteristic reflections for this form. In addition, the good orientation of suitably prepared specimens has enabled a fairly complete determination of the unit cell of the heptapeptides to be made. t-Boc-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe molecules are packed in a monoclinic lattice with a = 4.80, b = 34.5, c = 5.82 A, beta = 65.6 degrees and a = 4.80, b = 29.5, c = 5.82 A, beta = 65.6 degrees, respectively. It has not been possible to establish whether the arrangement of the chains within the sheets is parallel or antiparallel.", "contents": "X-ray study on homo-oligopeptides t-BOC-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe. Observations of extended peptide chains, whose direction is perpendicular to the fiber axis (cross-beta-structures) have hitherto been confined to fibrous proteins and to some synthetic polydisperse polypeptides of rather low molecular weight. This structure has now been found in some monodisperse linear homo-oligopeptides with aliphatic hydrocarbon side chains. X-ray diffraction photographs of t-Boc-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe show characteristic reflections for this form. In addition, the good orientation of suitably prepared specimens has enabled a fairly complete determination of the unit cell of the heptapeptides to be made. t-Boc-(D-Ala)7-OMe and HCl.H(D-Ala)7-OMe molecules are packed in a monoclinic lattice with a = 4.80, b = 34.5, c = 5.82 A, beta = 65.6 degrees and a = 4.80, b = 29.5, c = 5.82 A, beta = 65.6 degrees, respectively. It has not been possible to establish whether the arrangement of the chains within the sheets is parallel or antiparallel.", "PMID": 457332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12613", "title": "A series of lysyldipeptide derivatives for racemization studies in peptide synthesis.", "content": "The series of diastereomeric peptide derivatives N-benzoyl-D,L-X-N epsilon-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-lysine methyl ester where X = alanyl, valyl, leucyl, phenylalanyl and isoleucyl are submitted as model systems for studying racemization in peptide synthesis. The diastereomers can be analyzed by quantitation of the separated ester methyl proton peaks of their nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. Data on the tendency to racemize of the different residues are presented. In polar solvents, valyl and isoleucyl residues racemize more readily than the other residues.", "contents": "A series of lysyldipeptide derivatives for racemization studies in peptide synthesis. The series of diastereomeric peptide derivatives N-benzoyl-D,L-X-N epsilon-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-lysine methyl ester where X = alanyl, valyl, leucyl, phenylalanyl and isoleucyl are submitted as model systems for studying racemization in peptide synthesis. The diastereomers can be analyzed by quantitation of the separated ester methyl proton peaks of their nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. Data on the tendency to racemize of the different residues are presented. In polar solvents, valyl and isoleucyl residues racemize more readily than the other residues.", "PMID": 457333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12614", "title": "Isolation and physical characterization of bovine lens crystallins.", "content": "The soluble proteins from bovine lens homogenate were separated on Sepharose CL-6B (2 X 200 cm) in 0.05 M tris-NaHSO3 pH 8.2 buffer containing 20 mM EDTA. Five sharp and defined fractions (HM alpha, alpha, beta H, beta L, gamma) were obtained. Each crystallin fraction was further purified by rechromatography on the same column. Each protein fraction was pure as judged by ultracentrifugation and SDS-gel electrophoresis. The molecular weights of the five fractions were 3.04 x 10(6), 5.83 x 10(5), 1.58 x 10(5) , 4.59 x 10(4), 2.14 x 10(4) as determined from sedimentation coefficient and intrinsic viscosity data by Scheraga-Mandelkern equation, which was in close agreement with that obtained by gel filtration. The polypeptide composition of crystallins as determined by SDS-gel electrophoresis revealed one band for high molecular weight alpha (HM alpha) and alpha, three for beta H, two for beta L and one for gamma. The gross CD patterns of crystallins were about the same in the peptide region (200 nm similar to or approximately 250 nm) with a minimum centered at about 217 nm, indicative of a beta-sheet structure in all crystallins. The [theta] values at 217 nm ranged from --1700 to --3700 degrees cm2 per decimole. The CD spectra of these crystallins in the aromatic region (250 nm similar to or approximately 300 nm) were different, reflecting the different contributions of aromatic amino acids to the tertiary structure of crystallins.", "contents": "Isolation and physical characterization of bovine lens crystallins. The soluble proteins from bovine lens homogenate were separated on Sepharose CL-6B (2 X 200 cm) in 0.05 M tris-NaHSO3 pH 8.2 buffer containing 20 mM EDTA. Five sharp and defined fractions (HM alpha, alpha, beta H, beta L, gamma) were obtained. Each crystallin fraction was further purified by rechromatography on the same column. Each protein fraction was pure as judged by ultracentrifugation and SDS-gel electrophoresis. The molecular weights of the five fractions were 3.04 x 10(6), 5.83 x 10(5), 1.58 x 10(5) , 4.59 x 10(4), 2.14 x 10(4) as determined from sedimentation coefficient and intrinsic viscosity data by Scheraga-Mandelkern equation, which was in close agreement with that obtained by gel filtration. The polypeptide composition of crystallins as determined by SDS-gel electrophoresis revealed one band for high molecular weight alpha (HM alpha) and alpha, three for beta H, two for beta L and one for gamma. The gross CD patterns of crystallins were about the same in the peptide region (200 nm similar to or approximately 250 nm) with a minimum centered at about 217 nm, indicative of a beta-sheet structure in all crystallins. The [theta] values at 217 nm ranged from --1700 to --3700 degrees cm2 per decimole. The CD spectra of these crystallins in the aromatic region (250 nm similar to or approximately 300 nm) were different, reflecting the different contributions of aromatic amino acids to the tertiary structure of crystallins.", "PMID": 457334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12615", "title": "Use of cyclopentyl ester protection for aspartic acid to reduce base catalyzed succinimide formation in solid-phase peptide synthesis.", "content": "A study was conducted to determine the effect of amino acid sequence and aspartyl protecting group on the rate of base catalyzed succinimide formation in the solid-phase synthesis of aspartyl peptides. The peptides H-Ala-Asp-Gly-Phe-OH and H-Ala-Asp-Leu-Phe-OH were synthesized by the solid-phase method with cyclopentyl or benzyl protection for the beta-carboxyl of aspartic acid. The results showed that the cyclopentyl ester was notably less susceptible to succinimide formation by treatment with tertiary amine than was the benzyl ester, and that the difference could have significant consequences for the synthesis of the large peptides which contain reactive sequences such as Asp-Gly.", "contents": "Use of cyclopentyl ester protection for aspartic acid to reduce base catalyzed succinimide formation in solid-phase peptide synthesis. A study was conducted to determine the effect of amino acid sequence and aspartyl protecting group on the rate of base catalyzed succinimide formation in the solid-phase synthesis of aspartyl peptides. The peptides H-Ala-Asp-Gly-Phe-OH and H-Ala-Asp-Leu-Phe-OH were synthesized by the solid-phase method with cyclopentyl or benzyl protection for the beta-carboxyl of aspartic acid. The results showed that the cyclopentyl ester was notably less susceptible to succinimide formation by treatment with tertiary amine than was the benzyl ester, and that the difference could have significant consequences for the synthesis of the large peptides which contain reactive sequences such as Asp-Gly.", "PMID": 457335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12616", "title": "Synthesis and some pharmacological properties of [Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin and [Mpr1, Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin.", "content": "[Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin (XVI) and [Mpr1, Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin (XVII) bearing a methyl ester group in place of the carboxamide group in position 4 of oxytocin were synthesized by (3 + 6) segment condensation using the S-trityl group for the protection of the cysteine side chains. Analogue XVI exhibited 10.5 U/mg in vitro uterotonic, and 42 U/mg avian vasodepressor, activity, and analogue XVII 21.4 U/mg and 82 U/mg of the respective activities. Both compounds showed no response in the rat pressor assay.", "contents": "Synthesis and some pharmacological properties of [Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin and [Mpr1, Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin. [Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin (XVI) and [Mpr1, Glu(OMe)4]oxytocin (XVII) bearing a methyl ester group in place of the carboxamide group in position 4 of oxytocin were synthesized by (3 + 6) segment condensation using the S-trityl group for the protection of the cysteine side chains. Analogue XVI exhibited 10.5 U/mg in vitro uterotonic, and 42 U/mg avian vasodepressor, activity, and analogue XVII 21.4 U/mg and 82 U/mg of the respective activities. Both compounds showed no response in the rat pressor assay.", "PMID": 457336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12617", "title": "Childhood seduction, parental pathology and hysterical symptomatology: the genesis of an altered state of consciousness.", "content": "A particular kind of altered state of consciousness, as it occurred during the course of a lengthy analysis, was analysed. Its structure was that of a hysterical symptom and it was based on a 'reminiscence' from the past. The rather specific pathogenic effect of a series of seduction/assaults, which formed the nidus for this symptom complex was carefully outlined. As a result certain defensive manoeuvres were set in motion. First a hypnoid state, based on a primitive identification with his mother and resting upon a fantasied symbiotic union with her, was activated. Then a specific defence, based upon the mechanism of denial and fostering a far reaching turning away from reality and espousing the primacy of a special type of fantasy formation which substituted for and acted as the emotional tie to this same parent was described. The importance of both the hypnoid state and the accompanying imagery (fantasy) formation for aiding in discharging the excitement of the overstimulated state was commented upon.", "contents": "Childhood seduction, parental pathology and hysterical symptomatology: the genesis of an altered state of consciousness. A particular kind of altered state of consciousness, as it occurred during the course of a lengthy analysis, was analysed. Its structure was that of a hysterical symptom and it was based on a 'reminiscence' from the past. The rather specific pathogenic effect of a series of seduction/assaults, which formed the nidus for this symptom complex was carefully outlined. As a result certain defensive manoeuvres were set in motion. First a hypnoid state, based on a primitive identification with his mother and resting upon a fantasied symbiotic union with her, was activated. Then a specific defence, based upon the mechanism of denial and fostering a far reaching turning away from reality and espousing the primacy of a special type of fantasy formation which substituted for and acted as the emotional tie to this same parent was described. The importance of both the hypnoid state and the accompanying imagery (fantasy) formation for aiding in discharging the excitement of the overstimulated state was commented upon.", "PMID": 457337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12618", "title": "Being with a psychotic child a psycho-analytical approach to the problems of parents of psychotic children.", "content": "The reactive and adaptive responses of parents to their overtly psychotic children are described and an attempt is made to reconstruct the specific mother/infant interactions contributing to the development of different types of childhood psychosis. The concepts of 'maternal structure' and of 'delusional primary maternal preoccupation' are found to be relevant in this context. These considerations throw light on some aspects of countertransference encountered by workers in this field and of creative search in general. Whilst exploring parental psychology and psychopathology this paper attempts to outline the psychodynamic environment of the psychotic child at the various stages of his life and dis-ease. It emphasizes the value of the psychoanalytical approach as a guide in such an exploration and as a source of hope for better understanding and more effective interventions, both therapeutic and prophylactic.", "contents": "Being with a psychotic child a psycho-analytical approach to the problems of parents of psychotic children. The reactive and adaptive responses of parents to their overtly psychotic children are described and an attempt is made to reconstruct the specific mother/infant interactions contributing to the development of different types of childhood psychosis. The concepts of 'maternal structure' and of 'delusional primary maternal preoccupation' are found to be relevant in this context. These considerations throw light on some aspects of countertransference encountered by workers in this field and of creative search in general. Whilst exploring parental psychology and psychopathology this paper attempts to outline the psychodynamic environment of the psychotic child at the various stages of his life and dis-ease. It emphasizes the value of the psychoanalytical approach as a guide in such an exploration and as a source of hope for better understanding and more effective interventions, both therapeutic and prophylactic.", "PMID": 457339} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12619", "title": "The two analyses of Mr. Z.", "content": "As I stated initially, the preceding report was presented in order to buttress the claim that the new psychology of the self is helpful in the clinical area, that it allows us to perceive meanings, or the significance of meanings, that were formerly not perceived by us, at least not consciously. This is not a theoretical presentation of the psychology of the self--the theoretical knowledge needed will have to be obtained elsewhere (see, in particular, Kohut, 1971, 1972, 1977 and Kohut & Wolf, 1978). In order to assist the reader I append a diagrammatic summary of the psychopathology of Mr Z as it was perceived by me in his two analyses. For the rest I hope that this case report will speak for itself.", "contents": "The two analyses of Mr. Z. As I stated initially, the preceding report was presented in order to buttress the claim that the new psychology of the self is helpful in the clinical area, that it allows us to perceive meanings, or the significance of meanings, that were formerly not perceived by us, at least not consciously. This is not a theoretical presentation of the psychology of the self--the theoretical knowledge needed will have to be obtained elsewhere (see, in particular, Kohut, 1971, 1972, 1977 and Kohut & Wolf, 1978). In order to assist the reader I append a diagrammatic summary of the psychopathology of Mr Z as it was perceived by me in his two analyses. For the rest I hope that this case report will speak for itself.", "PMID": 457340} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12620", "title": "Psychosexuality and the representational world.", "content": "The sensual experiences, fantasies and enactments that occur in the course of normal development are seen as psychic organizers which contribute vitally to the structuralization of the representational world. In the sexual perversions which occur in structurally deficient, developmentally arrested individuals, this function of early psychosexual experiences has been retained and is regressively relied upon in order to restore or sustain the cohesion and stability of crumbling, fragmenting or disintegrating self and object representations. Analytic exploration of the details of perverse fantasies and acts, their origins and functions, reveals the particular ways in which they compensate for specific structural weaknesses in patients' representational worlds. Some clinical illustrations and therapeutic implications of these formulations are briefly presented.", "contents": "Psychosexuality and the representational world. The sensual experiences, fantasies and enactments that occur in the course of normal development are seen as psychic organizers which contribute vitally to the structuralization of the representational world. In the sexual perversions which occur in structurally deficient, developmentally arrested individuals, this function of early psychosexual experiences has been retained and is regressively relied upon in order to restore or sustain the cohesion and stability of crumbling, fragmenting or disintegrating self and object representations. Analytic exploration of the details of perverse fantasies and acts, their origins and functions, reveals the particular ways in which they compensate for specific structural weaknesses in patients' representational worlds. Some clinical illustrations and therapeutic implications of these formulations are briefly presented.", "PMID": 457341} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12621", "title": "The drama of the gifted child and the psycho-analyst's narcissistic disturbance.", "content": "In order to develop a true self, the child needs, in the first weeks and months of his life, his mother's appropriate emotional response, mirroring and respect. These narcissistic aspects have to be distinguished from the drive wishes. Only the mother's appropriate responses make it possible for the child to experience his feelings as belonging to his own self. If the child does not get the right narcissistic response, he will continue to search for narcissistic supplies for the rest of his life. The most suitable objects for this will be his own children initially, who are completely at his disposal. Specially gifted children who are sensitive, alert and have many 'antennae', will quickly learn to adapt to the narcissistic needs of their parents. Their behaviour will then give the mother all the mirroring, consideration and admiration which she had missed as a child herself. The result will be that, in spite of excellent performance, the child's own true self cannot develop. All this leads to narcissistic vulnerability and to new attempts in the adult to find at last an available 'mother' in his own child, partner, or, if he has become a psycho-analyst, in his patient. In the transference this type of analysand first experiences narcissistic rage before deep mourning is possible. This process of mourning enables him finally to accept his own deprivation as a child, to give up the unconscious idealizations and with them the hope of finding such a 'mother'. This leads regularly to the liberation of the life forces and allows creativity to develop. Only after this has been achieved is the analysis of drive conflicts possible and becomes emotionally effective.", "contents": "The drama of the gifted child and the psycho-analyst's narcissistic disturbance. In order to develop a true self, the child needs, in the first weeks and months of his life, his mother's appropriate emotional response, mirroring and respect. These narcissistic aspects have to be distinguished from the drive wishes. Only the mother's appropriate responses make it possible for the child to experience his feelings as belonging to his own self. If the child does not get the right narcissistic response, he will continue to search for narcissistic supplies for the rest of his life. The most suitable objects for this will be his own children initially, who are completely at his disposal. Specially gifted children who are sensitive, alert and have many 'antennae', will quickly learn to adapt to the narcissistic needs of their parents. Their behaviour will then give the mother all the mirroring, consideration and admiration which she had missed as a child herself. The result will be that, in spite of excellent performance, the child's own true self cannot develop. All this leads to narcissistic vulnerability and to new attempts in the adult to find at last an available 'mother' in his own child, partner, or, if he has become a psycho-analyst, in his patient. In the transference this type of analysand first experiences narcissistic rage before deep mourning is possible. This process of mourning enables him finally to accept his own deprivation as a child, to give up the unconscious idealizations and with them the hope of finding such a 'mother'. This leads regularly to the liberation of the life forces and allows creativity to develop. Only after this has been achieved is the analysis of drive conflicts possible and becomes emotionally effective.", "PMID": 457342} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12622", "title": "Some observations and hypotheses about the psychoanalytic theory of adult development.", "content": "The developmental framework, when applied to adulthood, emphasizes the continuing evolution of the personality at five or fifty and 'focuses on the formation of psychic structure in process and underscores the continuity of normal and pathologic outcomes.' (COPER 9, 1974, p. 14). Many of the events we have discussed here are experiences unique to the adult and outside the realm of the child. Their uniqueness and developmental significance need to be better accounted for in psychoanalytic theory. Confrontation with each adult developmental task or crisis produces basic change in the life of each individual. To quote Bibring (1959): 'We find them as developmental phenomena at points of no return between one phase and the next when decisive changes deprive former central needs and modes of living of their significance forcing the acceptance of highly charged new goals and functions.' (p. 119). One purpose of this paper has been to demonstrate that such developmental turning points of no return are not limited to childhood but occur throughout the life cycle.", "contents": "Some observations and hypotheses about the psychoanalytic theory of adult development. The developmental framework, when applied to adulthood, emphasizes the continuing evolution of the personality at five or fifty and 'focuses on the formation of psychic structure in process and underscores the continuity of normal and pathologic outcomes.' (COPER 9, 1974, p. 14). Many of the events we have discussed here are experiences unique to the adult and outside the realm of the child. Their uniqueness and developmental significance need to be better accounted for in psychoanalytic theory. Confrontation with each adult developmental task or crisis produces basic change in the life of each individual. To quote Bibring (1959): 'We find them as developmental phenomena at points of no return between one phase and the next when decisive changes deprive former central needs and modes of living of their significance forcing the acceptance of highly charged new goals and functions.' (p. 119). One purpose of this paper has been to demonstrate that such developmental turning points of no return are not limited to childhood but occur throughout the life cycle.", "PMID": 457343} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12623", "title": "On the metapsychology of schizophrenia.", "content": "The author's point of departure is schizophrenic fragmentation, which has been considered here from a drive-economic and structural point of view, starting from Freud's prestructural conceptions and Jacobson's metapsychological formulations. The view is arrived at in the essay that the central psychological mechanism in the schizophrenic disorder is a drive-energetic decathexis of the basic psychic tissue, or the primal representative matrix, which has far-reaching consequences within the entire psychic organization. The basic psychic tissue corresponds to that area of inner reality which, according to Freud, remains beyond the primal repression and is made up of the first representations of the instinctual drive. The entire psychic organization has then been woven out of this representational tissue, binding drive energies in a preliminary way. According to the view put forward here, schizophrenic fragmentation does not primarily represent a disintegration of the psychic macrostructures or a consequence of the ego's resorting to primitive defences but is a consequence of a drive-energetic crisis at the level of the basic psychic tissue. The disorder manifests itself as the disappearance of inner liveliness and as a diffuse dissociation of the entire representional world, which I have characterized as the disappearance of psychic transparence. Its influences naturally also extend to the realm of the more advanced psychic functions and macrostructures and will invalidate in a radical way the person's drive economy. Reference is made in the article to the possibility that the central task of the primal representative matrix may be the creation of lively connexions and a striving for synthesis throughout the entire psychic organization and that the schizophrenic disorder may be intimately related to the decathexis of this function.", "contents": "On the metapsychology of schizophrenia. The author's point of departure is schizophrenic fragmentation, which has been considered here from a drive-economic and structural point of view, starting from Freud's prestructural conceptions and Jacobson's metapsychological formulations. The view is arrived at in the essay that the central psychological mechanism in the schizophrenic disorder is a drive-energetic decathexis of the basic psychic tissue, or the primal representative matrix, which has far-reaching consequences within the entire psychic organization. The basic psychic tissue corresponds to that area of inner reality which, according to Freud, remains beyond the primal repression and is made up of the first representations of the instinctual drive. The entire psychic organization has then been woven out of this representational tissue, binding drive energies in a preliminary way. According to the view put forward here, schizophrenic fragmentation does not primarily represent a disintegration of the psychic macrostructures or a consequence of the ego's resorting to primitive defences but is a consequence of a drive-energetic crisis at the level of the basic psychic tissue. The disorder manifests itself as the disappearance of inner liveliness and as a diffuse dissociation of the entire representional world, which I have characterized as the disappearance of psychic transparence. Its influences naturally also extend to the realm of the more advanced psychic functions and macrostructures and will invalidate in a radical way the person's drive economy. Reference is made in the article to the possibility that the central task of the primal representative matrix may be the creation of lively connexions and a striving for synthesis throughout the entire psychic organization and that the schizophrenic disorder may be intimately related to the decathexis of this function.", "PMID": 457344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12624", "title": "Aloneness and borderline psychopathology: the possible relevance of child development issues.", "content": "The experience of intense painful aloneness is a common event in the lives of borderline patients, especially those closer to the psychotic spectrum. This experience is defined as an intrinsic aspect of the borderline personality defect and consists of a relative or total inability to remember positive images or fantasies of sustaining people in the patient's present or past life, or being overwhelmed by negative memories and images of these people. The development of borderline aloneness is related to a possible developmental failure, defined by Piaget, Fraiberg, and A.-M. Sandler. These workers describe the child's development of object permanence and evocative memory capacity (Piaget's sensori-motor stage VI). We postulate that a major borderline vulnerability is the tenuous achievement of the capacity for affective object permanence and its regressive loss to recognition memory or earlier when under specific stresses. We relate our hypotheses to possible empathic parental failures during the substages of separation-individuation, especially the rapprochement sub-phase. The treatment implications of our formulations are discussed, with an emphasis on the clarification of the need for the therapist's availability and the use of transitional objects during times of the patient's loss of his affective cognitive capacities. These regressive experiences often emerge as a core transference manifestation during psychoanalytic therapy with borderline patients, and often become the basis of significant therapeutic work.", "contents": "Aloneness and borderline psychopathology: the possible relevance of child development issues. The experience of intense painful aloneness is a common event in the lives of borderline patients, especially those closer to the psychotic spectrum. This experience is defined as an intrinsic aspect of the borderline personality defect and consists of a relative or total inability to remember positive images or fantasies of sustaining people in the patient's present or past life, or being overwhelmed by negative memories and images of these people. The development of borderline aloneness is related to a possible developmental failure, defined by Piaget, Fraiberg, and A.-M. Sandler. These workers describe the child's development of object permanence and evocative memory capacity (Piaget's sensori-motor stage VI). We postulate that a major borderline vulnerability is the tenuous achievement of the capacity for affective object permanence and its regressive loss to recognition memory or earlier when under specific stresses. We relate our hypotheses to possible empathic parental failures during the substages of separation-individuation, especially the rapprochement sub-phase. The treatment implications of our formulations are discussed, with an emphasis on the clarification of the need for the therapist's availability and the use of transitional objects during times of the patient's loss of his affective cognitive capacities. These regressive experiences often emerge as a core transference manifestation during psychoanalytic therapy with borderline patients, and often become the basis of significant therapeutic work.", "PMID": 457345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12625", "title": "The transformational object.", "content": "In work with certain kinds of patients in psychoanalysis who hyperbolize a particular form of object seeking, and in our analysis of certain features of western culture, I think we can isolate the trace in the adult of the earliest experience of the object. The infant's first experience of the object is as a process, rather than a thing in itself, but he perceptually identifies his experience of the object (an experience of psycho-somatic transformation) with the maternal object. For this reason I have termed the first object the transformational object, as I want to identify it with the object as process, thus linking our notion of the object with the infant's subjective knowing of it. Before the mother is personalized to the infant as a whole object she has functioned as a source of transformation, and as the infant's own nascent subjectivity is almost completely the experience of the ego's integrations (cognitive, libidinal, affective) the first object is identified with the alterations of the ego's state. This ego experience remains as an unconscious memory in the adult who relives it through his adamant quest for a transformational object: a new partner, a different form of work, a new material acquisition, an ideology or a belief. The most vivid memory of the earliest object relation occurs in the aesthetic moment when the person feels in deep rapport with the aesthetic object. Such moments are notable for their evocation of the affective memory of the earliest object relation. It is important for psychoanalysts to understand that the psychoanalytic setting and process invites the patient to remember the earliest object relation, so that a patient's expectation that the analyst will perform a transformational function is not necessarily either a wish or a resistance to the analytic work, but may, in fact, be the patient's response to the regressive invitation of the psychoanalytic space.", "contents": "The transformational object. In work with certain kinds of patients in psychoanalysis who hyperbolize a particular form of object seeking, and in our analysis of certain features of western culture, I think we can isolate the trace in the adult of the earliest experience of the object. The infant's first experience of the object is as a process, rather than a thing in itself, but he perceptually identifies his experience of the object (an experience of psycho-somatic transformation) with the maternal object. For this reason I have termed the first object the transformational object, as I want to identify it with the object as process, thus linking our notion of the object with the infant's subjective knowing of it. Before the mother is personalized to the infant as a whole object she has functioned as a source of transformation, and as the infant's own nascent subjectivity is almost completely the experience of the ego's integrations (cognitive, libidinal, affective) the first object is identified with the alterations of the ego's state. This ego experience remains as an unconscious memory in the adult who relives it through his adamant quest for a transformational object: a new partner, a different form of work, a new material acquisition, an ideology or a belief. The most vivid memory of the earliest object relation occurs in the aesthetic moment when the person feels in deep rapport with the aesthetic object. Such moments are notable for their evocation of the affective memory of the earliest object relation. It is important for psychoanalysts to understand that the psychoanalytic setting and process invites the patient to remember the earliest object relation, so that a patient's expectation that the analyst will perform a transformational function is not necessarily either a wish or a resistance to the analytic work, but may, in fact, be the patient's response to the regressive invitation of the psychoanalytic space.", "PMID": 457346} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12626", "title": "Cell migration in repair of mouse corneal epithelium.", "content": "The repair of wounds of the cornea made by removing the full thickness of epithelium was studied in mice, both in vivo and in organ cultures. Repair of wounds 1 to 1.4 mm diameter was complete in 12 to 16 hr. Elongated epithelial cells were arranged radially about the margins of these small circular wounds. In large, irregularly shaped wounds, the cells frequently lay with their long axes at a tangent to the wound margin. On cells with this arrangement, leading lamellae and numberous short filopodia were present, but they were not on the radially arranged cells. The tangential orientation of the epithelial cells, usually seen at convex parts of the margins, was believed to be associated with arrest of the advance of these areas. Participation of the cells of the peripheral cornea in the movement of the epithelium was evident by the movement of India ink markers placed in them and also by the piling up of cells at incisions made across the direction of movement of the epithelium. The concept of cells rolling over each other at the edge of the wound was not supported. They appeared to move as a mass without significant changes in their relative positions.", "contents": "Cell migration in repair of mouse corneal epithelium. The repair of wounds of the cornea made by removing the full thickness of epithelium was studied in mice, both in vivo and in organ cultures. Repair of wounds 1 to 1.4 mm diameter was complete in 12 to 16 hr. Elongated epithelial cells were arranged radially about the margins of these small circular wounds. In large, irregularly shaped wounds, the cells frequently lay with their long axes at a tangent to the wound margin. On cells with this arrangement, leading lamellae and numberous short filopodia were present, but they were not on the radially arranged cells. The tangential orientation of the epithelial cells, usually seen at convex parts of the margins, was believed to be associated with arrest of the advance of these areas. Participation of the cells of the peripheral cornea in the movement of the epithelium was evident by the movement of India ink markers placed in them and also by the piling up of cells at incisions made across the direction of movement of the epithelium. The concept of cells rolling over each other at the edge of the wound was not supported. They appeared to move as a mass without significant changes in their relative positions.", "PMID": 457355} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12627", "title": "Evaluation of tumor angiogenesis factor with the rabbit cornea model.", "content": "Sequential histopathological observations were made of the rabbit corneas after an implantation of viable and nonviable tumor cells in the corneal stroma. They showed a nonspecific localized interstitial keratitis accompanied by inflammatory cells and new capillaries. We could not observe any significant clinical or histopathological differences between the corneas containing live or dead tumor implants, or between those with different tumor types (i.e., retinoblastoma and melanoma). Some variation in the severity of the inflammatory response was observed in different animals with the same tumor. In all cases, the extent of the corneal neovascularization correlated with the degree of inflammation. However, in rabbits made immune-deficient by radiation, there was negligible inflammation and vascularization when tumor was implanted.", "contents": "Evaluation of tumor angiogenesis factor with the rabbit cornea model. Sequential histopathological observations were made of the rabbit corneas after an implantation of viable and nonviable tumor cells in the corneal stroma. They showed a nonspecific localized interstitial keratitis accompanied by inflammatory cells and new capillaries. We could not observe any significant clinical or histopathological differences between the corneas containing live or dead tumor implants, or between those with different tumor types (i.e., retinoblastoma and melanoma). Some variation in the severity of the inflammatory response was observed in different animals with the same tumor. In all cases, the extent of the corneal neovascularization correlated with the degree of inflammation. However, in rabbits made immune-deficient by radiation, there was negligible inflammation and vascularization when tumor was implanted.", "PMID": 457356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12628", "title": "The influence of the stimulus width on the contrast sensitivity function in amblyopia.", "content": "The contrast sensitivity function of both eyes of subjects with functional amblyopia has been measured. A clinically significant difference was found between the amblyopic and the normal eye. It appears that the functionally amblyopic eye takes more information from the peripheral parts of the stimulus than does the normal eye. The sensitivity of the normal eye increases linearly with increasing width of the stimulus to show a knee at a certain number of grating lines, whereafter the sensitivity remains constant. The sensitivity of the amblyopic eye initially rises much faster than that of the normal eye with increasing stimulus width. In the amblyopic eye, there is no definite linear relationship between width of stimulus and the contrast sensitivity and no definite knee in the curve at which maximum sensitivity is reached.", "contents": "The influence of the stimulus width on the contrast sensitivity function in amblyopia. The contrast sensitivity function of both eyes of subjects with functional amblyopia has been measured. A clinically significant difference was found between the amblyopic and the normal eye. It appears that the functionally amblyopic eye takes more information from the peripheral parts of the stimulus than does the normal eye. The sensitivity of the normal eye increases linearly with increasing width of the stimulus to show a knee at a certain number of grating lines, whereafter the sensitivity remains constant. The sensitivity of the amblyopic eye initially rises much faster than that of the normal eye with increasing stimulus width. In the amblyopic eye, there is no definite linear relationship between width of stimulus and the contrast sensitivity and no definite knee in the curve at which maximum sensitivity is reached.", "PMID": 457357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12629", "title": "Simultaneous electroretinograms and visually evoked potentials from adult amblyopes in response to a pattern stimulus.", "content": "Electroretinograms (ERGs) and visually evoked potentials (VEPs) were recorded simultaneously from each eye of three adult amblyopes. A spatially alternating checkerboard pattern stimulus of constant mean luminance was used to eliminate the effect of stray light on the ERG. The VEP was affected in the amblyopic eye of all subjects. In two subjects the VEP amplitude was reduced; in the third subject the amplitude was not attenuated, but the waveform of the VEP was markedly altered. Photopic ERGs recorded from the normal and amblyopic eye of each subject with an unpatterned flashing light were equal in amplitude. However, ERGs elicited by a patterned stimulus were affected in the amblyopic eye of all three subjects; the after-potential showed larger reductions in amplitude than the b-wave. These results suggest there may be some retinal involvement in human amblyopia.", "contents": "Simultaneous electroretinograms and visually evoked potentials from adult amblyopes in response to a pattern stimulus. Electroretinograms (ERGs) and visually evoked potentials (VEPs) were recorded simultaneously from each eye of three adult amblyopes. A spatially alternating checkerboard pattern stimulus of constant mean luminance was used to eliminate the effect of stray light on the ERG. The VEP was affected in the amblyopic eye of all subjects. In two subjects the VEP amplitude was reduced; in the third subject the amplitude was not attenuated, but the waveform of the VEP was markedly altered. Photopic ERGs recorded from the normal and amblyopic eye of each subject with an unpatterned flashing light were equal in amplitude. However, ERGs elicited by a patterned stimulus were affected in the amblyopic eye of all three subjects; the after-potential showed larger reductions in amplitude than the b-wave. These results suggest there may be some retinal involvement in human amblyopia.", "PMID": 457358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12630", "title": "Permeability of retinal capillaries in rats with inherited retinal degeneration.", "content": "The permeability of retinal capillaries in RCS rats with inherited retinal degeneration was investigated with horseradish peroxidase used as a tracer. Five-week-old rats showed typical degeneration of photoreceptor cells and accumulation of outer segment debris, but retinal capillaries were not permeable to peroxidase. At 10 weeks of age, capillaries in the inner retina appeared normal, but many in the outer retina were leaky. Peroxidase activity in these latter vessels was demonstrable in the basal laminae of endothelial cells and pericytes and in vesicles on the luminal and abluminal sides of the endothelium. Tracer also permeated the intercellular spaces in the surrounding area. The number of leaky capillaries in the outer retina increased during the course of the dystrophy. The site of the leak in permeable capillaries has not yet been established; it may be due to an alteration of the endothelial cell junctions or of transcellular vesicular transport. In the choriocapillaris, peroxidase permeated Bruch's membrane and the basal infoldings between adjacent pigment epithelial cells; tracer progression along the intercellular spaces was blocked at the zonulae occludens at the apicolateral border. The RCS rat may be a useful model for studying the morphological basis of changes in capillary permeability associated with retinal degeneration.", "contents": "Permeability of retinal capillaries in rats with inherited retinal degeneration. The permeability of retinal capillaries in RCS rats with inherited retinal degeneration was investigated with horseradish peroxidase used as a tracer. Five-week-old rats showed typical degeneration of photoreceptor cells and accumulation of outer segment debris, but retinal capillaries were not permeable to peroxidase. At 10 weeks of age, capillaries in the inner retina appeared normal, but many in the outer retina were leaky. Peroxidase activity in these latter vessels was demonstrable in the basal laminae of endothelial cells and pericytes and in vesicles on the luminal and abluminal sides of the endothelium. Tracer also permeated the intercellular spaces in the surrounding area. The number of leaky capillaries in the outer retina increased during the course of the dystrophy. The site of the leak in permeable capillaries has not yet been established; it may be due to an alteration of the endothelial cell junctions or of transcellular vesicular transport. In the choriocapillaris, peroxidase permeated Bruch's membrane and the basal infoldings between adjacent pigment epithelial cells; tracer progression along the intercellular spaces was blocked at the zonulae occludens at the apicolateral border. The RCS rat may be a useful model for studying the morphological basis of changes in capillary permeability associated with retinal degeneration.", "PMID": 457359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12631", "title": "Mass cells in ocular tissues of normal rats and rats infected with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.", "content": "In orbital exenteration specimens from 14 rats, 93% of the mast cells were found in the lids, the limbus, and the conjunctiva, 5% in the orbital tissues, and less than 1% in the globe. The density of mast cells was highest in lid (2843/mm3), limbus (2822/mm3), and orbit (2184/mm3) and lowest in bulbar conjunctiva (794/mm3), ciliary body (512/mm3), and sclera (176/mm3). There was no significant difference in the distribution or density of mast cells in orbital exenteration specimens from normal rats compared with rats infected with the worm Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. We concluded that certain ocular structures are rich in mast cells, which suggests that these structures might be susceptible to injury mediated by mast cell products.", "contents": "Mass cells in ocular tissues of normal rats and rats infected with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. In orbital exenteration specimens from 14 rats, 93% of the mast cells were found in the lids, the limbus, and the conjunctiva, 5% in the orbital tissues, and less than 1% in the globe. The density of mast cells was highest in lid (2843/mm3), limbus (2822/mm3), and orbit (2184/mm3) and lowest in bulbar conjunctiva (794/mm3), ciliary body (512/mm3), and sclera (176/mm3). There was no significant difference in the distribution or density of mast cells in orbital exenteration specimens from normal rats compared with rats infected with the worm Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. We concluded that certain ocular structures are rich in mast cells, which suggests that these structures might be susceptible to injury mediated by mast cell products.", "PMID": 457360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12632", "title": "An estimate of image quality in the rat eye.", "content": "The point spread function on the optic axis of the rat eye is indirectly estimated to increase from a half-height width no greater than 12.5' to not less than 36' after dilation of a 0.33 mm pupil diameter to 3.0 mm.", "contents": "An estimate of image quality in the rat eye. The point spread function on the optic axis of the rat eye is indirectly estimated to increase from a half-height width no greater than 12.5' to not less than 36' after dilation of a 0.33 mm pupil diameter to 3.0 mm.", "PMID": 457361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12633", "title": "Studies on the structure of the two infectious types of densonucleosis virus.", "content": "No electrophoretic differences were detected between the nucleic acids of the two types of densonucleosis virus, DNV-I and DNV-II. Both virus types had similar isoelectric points. Although the viral proteins found in each type were identical, their stoichiometry differed. The localization of the structural protein, by labeling with periodate-oxidized glycoprotein, supported the hypothesis that 60 molecules of p49 aggregated into a dodecahedron (12 pentamers), whereas the two other proteins (p59 and p69) might have a stabilizing function and were localized on the outer surface of the p49 dodecahedron.", "contents": "Studies on the structure of the two infectious types of densonucleosis virus. No electrophoretic differences were detected between the nucleic acids of the two types of densonucleosis virus, DNV-I and DNV-II. Both virus types had similar isoelectric points. Although the viral proteins found in each type were identical, their stoichiometry differed. The localization of the structural protein, by labeling with periodate-oxidized glycoprotein, supported the hypothesis that 60 molecules of p49 aggregated into a dodecahedron (12 pentamers), whereas the two other proteins (p59 and p69) might have a stabilizing function and were localized on the outer surface of the p49 dodecahedron.", "PMID": 457362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12634", "title": "Classification of peste des petits ruminants virus as the fourth member of the genus Morbillivirus.", "content": "Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a virus disease of sheep and goats in West Africa. When first described, the virus was considered a variant of rinderpest virus. The biological and physicochemical characteristics of the virus indicate that it is closely related to measles, rinderpest and canine distemper viruses. These three viruses form the genus Morbillivirus of the Paramyxoviridae. PPR virus is sufficiently distinct from these 3 viruses to justify considering it as the fourth member of the Morbillivirus genus.", "contents": "Classification of peste des petits ruminants virus as the fourth member of the genus Morbillivirus. Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a virus disease of sheep and goats in West Africa. When first described, the virus was considered a variant of rinderpest virus. The biological and physicochemical characteristics of the virus indicate that it is closely related to measles, rinderpest and canine distemper viruses. These three viruses form the genus Morbillivirus of the Paramyxoviridae. PPR virus is sufficiently distinct from these 3 viruses to justify considering it as the fourth member of the Morbillivirus genus.", "PMID": 457363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12635", "title": "A study of the measles virus-induced proteins incorporated into the cell membrane.", "content": "The polypeptide composition of a measles virus isolate from a case of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, the Halle strain, and the distribution of these polypeptides in the cell membrane have been investigated. In purified virus preparations, four major polypeptides were identified with molecular weights corresponding to 80K, 62K, 42K and 37K daltons. A minor band was found at 69K and several others with molecular weights +/- 100K. By specifically labeling the proteins exposed at the surface of BGM cells either persistently or lytically infected with the Halle virus, it was shown that only the 80K and 42K viral polypeptides were present in the cell membrane. Furthermore, it was observed that PAGE profiles of cellular polypeptides differed between infected and noninfected cells.", "contents": "A study of the measles virus-induced proteins incorporated into the cell membrane. The polypeptide composition of a measles virus isolate from a case of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, the Halle strain, and the distribution of these polypeptides in the cell membrane have been investigated. In purified virus preparations, four major polypeptides were identified with molecular weights corresponding to 80K, 62K, 42K and 37K daltons. A minor band was found at 69K and several others with molecular weights +/- 100K. By specifically labeling the proteins exposed at the surface of BGM cells either persistently or lytically infected with the Halle virus, it was shown that only the 80K and 42K viral polypeptides were present in the cell membrane. Furthermore, it was observed that PAGE profiles of cellular polypeptides differed between infected and noninfected cells.", "PMID": 457364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12636", "title": "A rapid method for detection of Bhanja virus in infected ticks.", "content": "A rapid method has been developed to detect Bhanja virus in experimentally infected Hyalomma asiaticum ticks by an indirect hemagglutination test. The titer of viral antigen is suspensions prepared from infected ticks ranged from 1:640 to 1:2,560; the antigen was demonstrated in both unfed and engorged ticks during an observation period from 2 weeks to 5 months after infection. The test is simple, easily reproduced, highly sensitive and specific, and may be useful for field studies with Bhanja virus.", "contents": "A rapid method for detection of Bhanja virus in infected ticks. A rapid method has been developed to detect Bhanja virus in experimentally infected Hyalomma asiaticum ticks by an indirect hemagglutination test. The titer of viral antigen is suspensions prepared from infected ticks ranged from 1:640 to 1:2,560; the antigen was demonstrated in both unfed and engorged ticks during an observation period from 2 weeks to 5 months after infection. The test is simple, easily reproduced, highly sensitive and specific, and may be useful for field studies with Bhanja virus.", "PMID": 457365} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12637", "title": "Phage Mu mutants with increased transduction abilities.", "content": "Mutants of the Escherichia coli phage Mu with increased transduction frequencies are describe. These mutants can be subdivided as (i) mutants in which only the marker used for detection is affected and (ii) mutants in which all other markers tested are also effected, but not to the same extent. The possible mechanisms of the altered transducing properties are discussed.", "contents": "Phage Mu mutants with increased transduction abilities. Mutants of the Escherichia coli phage Mu with increased transduction frequencies are describe. These mutants can be subdivided as (i) mutants in which only the marker used for detection is affected and (ii) mutants in which all other markers tested are also effected, but not to the same extent. The possible mechanisms of the altered transducing properties are discussed.", "PMID": 457366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12638", "title": "A multicomponent, multipoint infrared ambient air monitor.", "content": "With the tremendous advances in electronics today, it is now possible to take existing analytical instruments and give then a \"brain\" so that many analytical procedures which were impossible or costly a few years ago can now be done with relative ease, at a fraction of the costs. This paper deals with a microcomputer-controlled air monitor which allows us to identify many different components at a multitude of different locations. System operation is explained as well as data accuracy as they relate to application in a plastics research pilot plant.", "contents": "A multicomponent, multipoint infrared ambient air monitor. With the tremendous advances in electronics today, it is now possible to take existing analytical instruments and give then a \"brain\" so that many analytical procedures which were impossible or costly a few years ago can now be done with relative ease, at a fraction of the costs. This paper deals with a microcomputer-controlled air monitor which allows us to identify many different components at a multitude of different locations. System operation is explained as well as data accuracy as they relate to application in a plastics research pilot plant.", "PMID": 457367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12639", "title": "Ultrasonic transesophageal measurement of hemodynamic parameters in humans.", "content": "A noninvasive method has been developed to monitor centerline blood velocity waveforms and vessel diameter in the descending aorta and pulmonary artery of conscious humans. An esophageal endoscope fitted with miniature ultrasound transducers is swallowed and positioned in the esophagus near vessels of interest. The transducers are connected to ultrasound Doppler velocimeters and echotrack instrumentation to obtain the pertinent hemodynamic parameters. This paper describes the design and fabrication of the esophageal ultrasound transducers and the techniques involved in human applications. In addition, blood velocity and wall motion measurements obtained in conscious men at rest and during exercise are described.", "contents": "Ultrasonic transesophageal measurement of hemodynamic parameters in humans. A noninvasive method has been developed to monitor centerline blood velocity waveforms and vessel diameter in the descending aorta and pulmonary artery of conscious humans. An esophageal endoscope fitted with miniature ultrasound transducers is swallowed and positioned in the esophagus near vessels of interest. The transducers are connected to ultrasound Doppler velocimeters and echotrack instrumentation to obtain the pertinent hemodynamic parameters. This paper describes the design and fabrication of the esophageal ultrasound transducers and the techniques involved in human applications. In addition, blood velocity and wall motion measurements obtained in conscious men at rest and during exercise are described.", "PMID": 457368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12640", "title": "Feedback control in the management of cardiac arrhythmias.", "content": "We have devised a computer technique for the control of drug therapy in the management of cardiac arrhythmias. In our system the computer monitors the electrocardiogram in real time, determines the percent of premature ventricular beats (PVBs) using a correlation coefficient technique, and compares it to a desired rhythm. If the measured rhythm departs from the setpoint, an antiarrhythmic drug is infused by the computer. Based upon the pharmacokinetics of the drug, the infusion is delivered so as to attain an immediate change in the blood drug concentration utilizing an exponential infusion technique. The control algorithm is a modified proportional controller. Closed-loop control experiments have been performed in canines with an induced myocardial infarction. The antiarrhythmic agent disopyramide phosphate was used to correct the resulting arrhythmias. Our results suggest that computer control of drug therapy can profitably be applied to the management of cardiac arrhythmias in the coronary care unit.", "contents": "Feedback control in the management of cardiac arrhythmias. We have devised a computer technique for the control of drug therapy in the management of cardiac arrhythmias. In our system the computer monitors the electrocardiogram in real time, determines the percent of premature ventricular beats (PVBs) using a correlation coefficient technique, and compares it to a desired rhythm. If the measured rhythm departs from the setpoint, an antiarrhythmic drug is infused by the computer. Based upon the pharmacokinetics of the drug, the infusion is delivered so as to attain an immediate change in the blood drug concentration utilizing an exponential infusion technique. The control algorithm is a modified proportional controller. Closed-loop control experiments have been performed in canines with an induced myocardial infarction. The antiarrhythmic agent disopyramide phosphate was used to correct the resulting arrhythmias. Our results suggest that computer control of drug therapy can profitably be applied to the management of cardiac arrhythmias in the coronary care unit.", "PMID": 457369} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12641", "title": "The emergence of cardiac nondisease among children in Iran.", "content": "In a prospective study over a one-year period, 476 new patients, aged three days to 21 years, were seen in a pediatric cardiology clinic held three times a week in two hospitals. Of these patients, 290 (61%) were normal; in 238 (82%) of these a physician had made a definite diagnosis of heart disease. The usual bases for a diagnosis of heart disease in these cases of \"cardiac nondisease\" were an \"elevated\" antistreptolysin O titer, growing pains, hyperventilation and functional murmurs, or a combination of these. Of these 238 cardiac nondisease patients, 188 (79%) were under active treatment for up to seven years (mean, 1.23 years). This treatment included monthy penicillin injections for 104 patients for up to seven years; restriction of physical activity in 98 patients; up to six months of aspirin therapy for 25; up to three months of bed rest for 23; steroids for 17; and 'prophylactic\" tonsillectomies for 11 patients. Some patients with comfirmed heart disease (35 of 97) were receiving grossly inappropriate treatment. All this represents a significant change in the pattern of pediatric care from that which existed 10 years ago, when cardiac nondisease was nonexistent and many cases of heart disease went unrecognized and untreated. In this report, possible reasons for the emergence of cardiac nondisease are discussed.", "contents": "The emergence of cardiac nondisease among children in Iran. In a prospective study over a one-year period, 476 new patients, aged three days to 21 years, were seen in a pediatric cardiology clinic held three times a week in two hospitals. Of these patients, 290 (61%) were normal; in 238 (82%) of these a physician had made a definite diagnosis of heart disease. The usual bases for a diagnosis of heart disease in these cases of \"cardiac nondisease\" were an \"elevated\" antistreptolysin O titer, growing pains, hyperventilation and functional murmurs, or a combination of these. Of these 238 cardiac nondisease patients, 188 (79%) were under active treatment for up to seven years (mean, 1.23 years). This treatment included monthy penicillin injections for 104 patients for up to seven years; restriction of physical activity in 98 patients; up to six months of aspirin therapy for 25; up to three months of bed rest for 23; steroids for 17; and 'prophylactic\" tonsillectomies for 11 patients. Some patients with comfirmed heart disease (35 of 97) were receiving grossly inappropriate treatment. All this represents a significant change in the pattern of pediatric care from that which existed 10 years ago, when cardiac nondisease was nonexistent and many cases of heart disease went unrecognized and untreated. In this report, possible reasons for the emergence of cardiac nondisease are discussed.", "PMID": 457371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12642", "title": "Occupational acroosteolysis in vinyl chloride workers in Israel.", "content": "Exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) may result in a bizarre syndrome, which is characterized by lytic changes in the distal phalanges, cutaneous stigmata of scleroderma, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Detailed case histories of two such patients are presented. Epidemiologic, pathogenetic and radiological aspects of occupational acroosteolysis are briefly reviewed. The possibility is emphasized that the condition may result not only from industrial (i.e., occupational) exposure to VCM but also from exposure in the home or neighborhood (i.e., nonoccupational).", "contents": "Occupational acroosteolysis in vinyl chloride workers in Israel. Exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) may result in a bizarre syndrome, which is characterized by lytic changes in the distal phalanges, cutaneous stigmata of scleroderma, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Detailed case histories of two such patients are presented. Epidemiologic, pathogenetic and radiological aspects of occupational acroosteolysis are briefly reviewed. The possibility is emphasized that the condition may result not only from industrial (i.e., occupational) exposure to VCM but also from exposure in the home or neighborhood (i.e., nonoccupational).", "PMID": 457372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12643", "title": "Abnormal excretion of phenolic acids in rheumatic chorea.", "content": "Sydenham's chorea can be successfully treated with haloperidol, an agent that is known to interfere with the binding of dopamine to its receptors. This suggests that dopamine and its metabolic end product, homovanillic acid (HVA), might be elevated in Sydenham's chorea. To test this hypothesis, the urine of three patients with the clinical diagnosis of Sydenham's chorea was analyzed for HVA and vanillylmandelic acid (VMA). Urinary HVA and the HVA:VMA ratio were significantly higher in these three patients compared with seven control children. Urinary VMA was not different in these two groups. It is suggested that increased dopamine metabolism is involved in the pathogenesis of Sydenham's chorea and that the determination of urinary HVA and the HVA:VMA ratio may be helpful in establishing this diagnosis. We report a case that demonstrates the use of urinary HVA determination in the diagnosis of Sydenham's chorea.", "contents": "Abnormal excretion of phenolic acids in rheumatic chorea. Sydenham's chorea can be successfully treated with haloperidol, an agent that is known to interfere with the binding of dopamine to its receptors. This suggests that dopamine and its metabolic end product, homovanillic acid (HVA), might be elevated in Sydenham's chorea. To test this hypothesis, the urine of three patients with the clinical diagnosis of Sydenham's chorea was analyzed for HVA and vanillylmandelic acid (VMA). Urinary HVA and the HVA:VMA ratio were significantly higher in these three patients compared with seven control children. Urinary VMA was not different in these two groups. It is suggested that increased dopamine metabolism is involved in the pathogenesis of Sydenham's chorea and that the determination of urinary HVA and the HVA:VMA ratio may be helpful in establishing this diagnosis. We report a case that demonstrates the use of urinary HVA determination in the diagnosis of Sydenham's chorea.", "PMID": 457373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12644", "title": "Legionnaires's disease.", "content": "The fist case of legionnaires' disease in Israel is described. In a previously healthy woman, the disease was manifested by a rapidly progressive pneumonia, which was unresponsive to conventional therapy. The diagnosis was confirmed by positive serologic tests and the demonstration of the responsbile microorganism in the patient's lung tissue. Legionnaires' disease should now be suspected in patients with unexplained severe pneumonia, even in countries in which this disease has not been previously recognized.", "contents": "Legionnaires's disease. The fist case of legionnaires' disease in Israel is described. In a previously healthy woman, the disease was manifested by a rapidly progressive pneumonia, which was unresponsive to conventional therapy. The diagnosis was confirmed by positive serologic tests and the demonstration of the responsbile microorganism in the patient's lung tissue. Legionnaires' disease should now be suspected in patients with unexplained severe pneumonia, even in countries in which this disease has not been previously recognized.", "PMID": 457374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12645", "title": "Carcinogenicity testing for control of environmental tumor development in man.", "content": "After briefly reviewing the present status of carcinogenicity testing as an aid to the control of environmental carcinogenesis in man, and discussing in somewhat more detail the relative advantages and limitations of animal testing and the two most widely used short-term assays--the Ames test and in vitro carcinogenesis--special attention is given to two points: 1) the difficulties inherent in extrapolating from the results of experimental tests an index of potential carcinogenic hazards in man; 2) the urgent need for additional testing procedures for the detection of associated factors (such as, cocarcinogenic factors and promoting agents) operating in human carcinogenesis.", "contents": "Carcinogenicity testing for control of environmental tumor development in man. After briefly reviewing the present status of carcinogenicity testing as an aid to the control of environmental carcinogenesis in man, and discussing in somewhat more detail the relative advantages and limitations of animal testing and the two most widely used short-term assays--the Ames test and in vitro carcinogenesis--special attention is given to two points: 1) the difficulties inherent in extrapolating from the results of experimental tests an index of potential carcinogenic hazards in man; 2) the urgent need for additional testing procedures for the detection of associated factors (such as, cocarcinogenic factors and promoting agents) operating in human carcinogenesis.", "PMID": 457379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12646", "title": "Reduction of postoperative infection rate in hip surgery: collaborative effort between orthopedic surgeons and control-of-infection team.", "content": "The success of a collaborative program between the ward staff and the control-of-infection team in reducing postoperative infection in patients undergoing hip surgery in a university hospital is described. The program was used to detect infection, to introduce control measures and to evaluate their effectiveness. The infection rate dropped from 25.7 to less than 1.0%, and this low rate was maintained over the 2 1/2 years of follow-up surveillance. The reduction in infection rate was associated with a six-day reduction (22.4%) in the duration of postoperative hospitalization.", "contents": "Reduction of postoperative infection rate in hip surgery: collaborative effort between orthopedic surgeons and control-of-infection team. The success of a collaborative program between the ward staff and the control-of-infection team in reducing postoperative infection in patients undergoing hip surgery in a university hospital is described. The program was used to detect infection, to introduce control measures and to evaluate their effectiveness. The infection rate dropped from 25.7 to less than 1.0%, and this low rate was maintained over the 2 1/2 years of follow-up surveillance. The reduction in infection rate was associated with a six-day reduction (22.4%) in the duration of postoperative hospitalization.", "PMID": 457380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12647", "title": "Ultrastructural pathology with normal light microscopy of liver in Wilson's disease. A case report.", "content": "Light microscopy findings in early Wilson's disease (hepatolenticular degeneration) may be normal even when special cytochemical stains are used. We present a case of Wilson's disease in which light microscopy was negative, while electron microscopy showed the characteristic changes in the hepatocytes. Since low serum ceruloplasmin levels and high urinary copper excretion are not by themselves definite proof of Wilson's disease, and since copper content of the liver is not universally measured, electron microscopy examination of liver tissue appears to be a worthwhile additional tool for the early diagnosis of Wilson's disease.", "contents": "Ultrastructural pathology with normal light microscopy of liver in Wilson's disease. A case report. Light microscopy findings in early Wilson's disease (hepatolenticular degeneration) may be normal even when special cytochemical stains are used. We present a case of Wilson's disease in which light microscopy was negative, while electron microscopy showed the characteristic changes in the hepatocytes. Since low serum ceruloplasmin levels and high urinary copper excretion are not by themselves definite proof of Wilson's disease, and since copper content of the liver is not universally measured, electron microscopy examination of liver tissue appears to be a worthwhile additional tool for the early diagnosis of Wilson's disease.", "PMID": 457381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12648", "title": "Value of serum digoxin concentration measurement in the control of digoxin therapy in atrial fibrillation.", "content": "The association between steady-state serum digoxin concentrations and control of ventricular response rate (VRR) was studied in 53 consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation. Decreases in VRR were significantly correlated with serum digoxin (rs = -0.22, P less than 0.05). Clinical responses were appropriate to serum digoxin concentrations in 37 patients (69.8%) and were inappropriate in 16 (30.2%) (P less than 0.05). Complicating clinical factors were present in all eight patients with inappropriate responses to therapeutic serum digoxin (0.5 to 2.0 ng/ml) (P = 0.046), but were also found in many patients with appropriate responses and thus could not serve to differentiate between the two categories. Digitalis intoxication occurred in one of the three patients with a concentration of serum digoxin greater than 2 ng/ml (P = 0.056). In 30% of our patients with atrial fibrillation, monitoring of serum digoxin was of value in identifying inappropriate therapeutic responses indistinguishable by clinical means and in defining the subgroup of refractory cases, which allows the prevention of digitalis intoxication.", "contents": "Value of serum digoxin concentration measurement in the control of digoxin therapy in atrial fibrillation. The association between steady-state serum digoxin concentrations and control of ventricular response rate (VRR) was studied in 53 consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation. Decreases in VRR were significantly correlated with serum digoxin (rs = -0.22, P less than 0.05). Clinical responses were appropriate to serum digoxin concentrations in 37 patients (69.8%) and were inappropriate in 16 (30.2%) (P less than 0.05). Complicating clinical factors were present in all eight patients with inappropriate responses to therapeutic serum digoxin (0.5 to 2.0 ng/ml) (P = 0.046), but were also found in many patients with appropriate responses and thus could not serve to differentiate between the two categories. Digitalis intoxication occurred in one of the three patients with a concentration of serum digoxin greater than 2 ng/ml (P = 0.056). In 30% of our patients with atrial fibrillation, monitoring of serum digoxin was of value in identifying inappropriate therapeutic responses indistinguishable by clinical means and in defining the subgroup of refractory cases, which allows the prevention of digitalis intoxication.", "PMID": 457382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12649", "title": "Cytogenetic investigation of leukemic and preleukemic disorders.", "content": "Banding chromosome analysis was performed on 35 bone marrow aspirates from patients with various leukemic and nonleukemic hematologic disorders. Of these, 24 had normal karyotypes, while 11 demonstrated various chromosomal abnormalities. Several of the abnormalities have been previously observed and support the concept of nonrandom involvement of specific chromosomes in aberrations associated with hematologic conditions. In addition, some unique abnormalities were demonstrated in three cases: monosomy 1, trisomy 22, and premature chromosome condensation.", "contents": "Cytogenetic investigation of leukemic and preleukemic disorders. Banding chromosome analysis was performed on 35 bone marrow aspirates from patients with various leukemic and nonleukemic hematologic disorders. Of these, 24 had normal karyotypes, while 11 demonstrated various chromosomal abnormalities. Several of the abnormalities have been previously observed and support the concept of nonrandom involvement of specific chromosomes in aberrations associated with hematologic conditions. In addition, some unique abnormalities were demonstrated in three cases: monosomy 1, trisomy 22, and premature chromosome condensation.", "PMID": 457383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12650", "title": "Neurological sequelae of septic meningitis. A follow-up study of 65 children.", "content": "Seventy-two children who survived septic meningitis were reevaluated after 3 to 11 years. Thirty-four (52%) of 65 children were found to have neurological sequelae. Of the 34, 15 had major sequelae and 19 showed evidence of only minimal brain dysfunction--namely, hyperkinetic behavior, organic learning disturbances and minor motor disabilities. Acute-phase findings that were significantly associated with the rate of neurological sequelae were age, time between onset and admission, seizures, spinal fluid glucose level and the number of polymorphonuclear cells. In view of the high frequency of late neurological sequelae, it is advisable that children who survive septic meningitis have long-term follow-up in order to detect evidence of minimal brain dysfunction. An early diagnosis will help in proper management.", "contents": "Neurological sequelae of septic meningitis. A follow-up study of 65 children. Seventy-two children who survived septic meningitis were reevaluated after 3 to 11 years. Thirty-four (52%) of 65 children were found to have neurological sequelae. Of the 34, 15 had major sequelae and 19 showed evidence of only minimal brain dysfunction--namely, hyperkinetic behavior, organic learning disturbances and minor motor disabilities. Acute-phase findings that were significantly associated with the rate of neurological sequelae were age, time between onset and admission, seizures, spinal fluid glucose level and the number of polymorphonuclear cells. In view of the high frequency of late neurological sequelae, it is advisable that children who survive septic meningitis have long-term follow-up in order to detect evidence of minimal brain dysfunction. An early diagnosis will help in proper management.", "PMID": 457384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12651", "title": "Growth pattern of boys with isolated gonadotropin deficiency.", "content": "The linear growth and skeletal maturation of 19 boys with isolated gonadotropin deficiency, including four with anosmia (Kallmann's syndrome), are presented. With the exception of one prepubertal-age boy (less than or equal to 10 years) and five pubertal-age boys (greater than 10 years), all heights were within normal limits, but below the 50th percentile. With one exception, the bone age was retarded in all boys, even in prepuberty.", "contents": "Growth pattern of boys with isolated gonadotropin deficiency. The linear growth and skeletal maturation of 19 boys with isolated gonadotropin deficiency, including four with anosmia (Kallmann's syndrome), are presented. With the exception of one prepubertal-age boy (less than or equal to 10 years) and five pubertal-age boys (greater than 10 years), all heights were within normal limits, but below the 50th percentile. With one exception, the bone age was retarded in all boys, even in prepuberty.", "PMID": 457385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12652", "title": "Immediate postabortion intrauterine contraception in nulliparous adolescents.", "content": "Immediate postabortion insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) was performed in 162 nulliparous adolescents. No insertion failures occurred. Twelve-month continuation rates were 86.6% for the Copper-7 IUD, 75.4% for the Copper-T device and 48.2% for the Lippes loop. Overall complications were greater for the Lippes loop than for the other two devices. The results suggest that immediate postabortion insertion should be considered for poorly motivated or uneducated adolescent girls who have already failed in contraception and require abortion.", "contents": "Immediate postabortion intrauterine contraception in nulliparous adolescents. Immediate postabortion insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) was performed in 162 nulliparous adolescents. No insertion failures occurred. Twelve-month continuation rates were 86.6% for the Copper-7 IUD, 75.4% for the Copper-T device and 48.2% for the Lippes loop. Overall complications were greater for the Lippes loop than for the other two devices. The results suggest that immediate postabortion insertion should be considered for poorly motivated or uneducated adolescent girls who have already failed in contraception and require abortion.", "PMID": 457386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12653", "title": "[Unusual mosaicism of chromosome 10 trisomy in a female patient with the Bourneville-Pringle syndrome].", "content": "The case history of a patient with tuberous sclerosis with adenoma sebaceum of Pringle, periungual fibromata, epilepsy, retinal phacomata, renal hamartomata and cyst-like lesions of the phalanges is reported. Mosaic trisomy of chromosome 10 was observed in the patient.", "contents": "[Unusual mosaicism of chromosome 10 trisomy in a female patient with the Bourneville-Pringle syndrome]. The case history of a patient with tuberous sclerosis with adenoma sebaceum of Pringle, periungual fibromata, epilepsy, retinal phacomata, renal hamartomata and cyst-like lesions of the phalanges is reported. Mosaic trisomy of chromosome 10 was observed in the patient.", "PMID": 457410} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12654", "title": "[\"Pigment balance\" through oral beta carotene. A new therapeutic principle in cosmetic dermatology].", "content": "Report on methods of treatment of unsightly pigment changes in the face with beta-carotene orally given in combination with locally applied sunscreens. This \"balance of pigment\" results especially in acral vitiligo in good or very good cosmetic effects. The new treatment is described in detail.", "contents": "[\"Pigment balance\" through oral beta carotene. A new therapeutic principle in cosmetic dermatology]. Report on methods of treatment of unsightly pigment changes in the face with beta-carotene orally given in combination with locally applied sunscreens. This \"balance of pigment\" results especially in acral vitiligo in good or very good cosmetic effects. The new treatment is described in detail.", "PMID": 457411} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12655", "title": "[Cullen's postoperative progressive gangrene].", "content": "A 23 year old female patient developed postoperative progressive gangrene twice after surgical treatment when she was nine and twenty-three years old.", "contents": "[Cullen's postoperative progressive gangrene]. A 23 year old female patient developed postoperative progressive gangrene twice after surgical treatment when she was nine and twenty-three years old.", "PMID": 457412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12656", "title": "[The iliac compression syndrome. A cause of recurrent leg ulcers].", "content": "The iliac compression syndrome is a congenital vascular anomaly which is presumed to predispose to deep thrombophlebitis. In untreated cases, severe changes with edema of the lower limbs and leg ulcers which is resistent to treatment frequently develop. The diagnosis is established by pelvic phlebography and measurement of venous pressure during weight-bearing. A case is described in which vascular surgery resulted in healing of the ulcerations and considerable improvement of the remaining symptoms.", "contents": "[The iliac compression syndrome. A cause of recurrent leg ulcers]. The iliac compression syndrome is a congenital vascular anomaly which is presumed to predispose to deep thrombophlebitis. In untreated cases, severe changes with edema of the lower limbs and leg ulcers which is resistent to treatment frequently develop. The diagnosis is established by pelvic phlebography and measurement of venous pressure during weight-bearing. A case is described in which vascular surgery resulted in healing of the ulcerations and considerable improvement of the remaining symptoms.", "PMID": 457413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12657", "title": "[Pomade crust].", "content": "Exaggerated use of skin care topicals in infants may lead to brownish appositions in the inguinal and gluteal region described as pomade crust. Examination of scraping material by infra-red spectroscopy failed to reveal any residue of emollients but instead was characteristic of human scales. Certain topicals are apparently capable of inducing hyperkeratosis in these body regions.", "contents": "[Pomade crust]. Exaggerated use of skin care topicals in infants may lead to brownish appositions in the inguinal and gluteal region described as pomade crust. Examination of scraping material by infra-red spectroscopy failed to reveal any residue of emollients but instead was characteristic of human scales. Certain topicals are apparently capable of inducing hyperkeratosis in these body regions.", "PMID": 457414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12658", "title": "[Superficial cutaneous nevus lipomatosus (Hoffmann-Zurhelle)].", "content": "Neviform hand-sized yellowish or skin colored plaques or linear lesions with flattened papules or folded surface in the gluteal regions, especially in females, point out to nevus lipomatosus superficialis (Hoffmann-Zurhelle). These nevi consisting of mature fat cells among the dermal collagen are rare lesions. The case report of two female patients should remind of this clinical and histological picture.", "contents": "[Superficial cutaneous nevus lipomatosus (Hoffmann-Zurhelle)]. Neviform hand-sized yellowish or skin colored plaques or linear lesions with flattened papules or folded surface in the gluteal regions, especially in females, point out to nevus lipomatosus superficialis (Hoffmann-Zurhelle). These nevi consisting of mature fat cells among the dermal collagen are rare lesions. The case report of two female patients should remind of this clinical and histological picture.", "PMID": 457415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12659", "title": "The separation of human globin chains by ion-exchange chromatography on CM-Sepharose CL-6B.", "content": "A chromatographic procedure for the separation of human globin chains is described. This method uses CM-Sepharose CL-6B as ion-exchanger and NaCl gradients formed in sodium phosphate buffers containing urea and 0.05M mercaptoethanol to elute the chains. One advantage of this system is that a column, once packed, may be used repeatedly for several chain separations, thus reducing cost and practical work. The resolution in our hands was also better than that on CM-Cellulose using phosphate buffer gradients.", "contents": "The separation of human globin chains by ion-exchange chromatography on CM-Sepharose CL-6B. A chromatographic procedure for the separation of human globin chains is described. This method uses CM-Sepharose CL-6B as ion-exchanger and NaCl gradients formed in sodium phosphate buffers containing urea and 0.05M mercaptoethanol to elute the chains. One advantage of this system is that a column, once packed, may be used repeatedly for several chain separations, thus reducing cost and practical work. The resolution in our hands was also better than that on CM-Cellulose using phosphate buffer gradients.", "PMID": 457420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12660", "title": "Immunologic diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia traits.", "content": "Frequently it is impossible to diagnose alpha-thalassemia-2 trait from hematologic findings, since the red cell morphology and the MCV are normal. In such cases, after the neonatal period Hb Bart's is not detectable by conventional electrophoreses and chromatography. Antibody against Hb Bart's was produced in rabbits by repeated injections with Hb Bart's from Hb Bart's hydropic fetuses. The antibody was specific for Hb Bart's without crossreaction with Hbs A, A2, E, F and H. By the capillary tube precipitin test Hb Bart's was demonstrable in 82% of 87 obligatory cases for alpha-thalassemia traits, 86% in alpha-thalassemia-1 trait and 79% in alpha-thalassemia-2 trait. The test was positive in 21% of the general subjects, corresponding to the prevalence of alpha-thalassemia in Bangkok. Thus the immunologic demonstration of Hb Bart's appears to offer a diagnostic screening test for alpha-thalassemia traits in the postneonatal period.", "contents": "Immunologic diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia traits. Frequently it is impossible to diagnose alpha-thalassemia-2 trait from hematologic findings, since the red cell morphology and the MCV are normal. In such cases, after the neonatal period Hb Bart's is not detectable by conventional electrophoreses and chromatography. Antibody against Hb Bart's was produced in rabbits by repeated injections with Hb Bart's from Hb Bart's hydropic fetuses. The antibody was specific for Hb Bart's without crossreaction with Hbs A, A2, E, F and H. By the capillary tube precipitin test Hb Bart's was demonstrable in 82% of 87 obligatory cases for alpha-thalassemia traits, 86% in alpha-thalassemia-1 trait and 79% in alpha-thalassemia-2 trait. The test was positive in 21% of the general subjects, corresponding to the prevalence of alpha-thalassemia in Bangkok. Thus the immunologic demonstration of Hb Bart's appears to offer a diagnostic screening test for alpha-thalassemia traits in the postneonatal period.", "PMID": 457421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12661", "title": "Beta 0 thalassemia trait in Sardinia.", "content": "The red cell indices and results of globin chain synthesis in peripheral blood of obligate beta 0 thalassemia (beta 0 thal) carriers (parents of homozygous beta 0 thal children) and beta thalassemia (beta thal) carriers identified during mass screening are reported. Red cell indices were similar in obligate beta 0 carriers and in carriers diagnosed during mass screening. However there was a higher incidence of anemia in female obligate beta 0 thal carriers. In Sardinia the beta 0 thal carrier showed the usual hematological characteristics of the high Hb A2 beta thal carrier with microcytosis, hypochromia, reduced osmotic fragility; Hb F greater than 1% was found in 30% of the carriers. With MCV, MCH, osmotic fragility test (OFT) and Shine and Lal discriminant function we found 3.5%, 1.5%, 3.5% and 4.0% respectively false negatives in carrier identification. A part from one subject, all obligate carriers had elevated Hb A2 levels. The alpha/beta ratio in obligate carriers (mean +/- SD) was 1.83 +/- 0.26 (N = 30).", "contents": "Beta 0 thalassemia trait in Sardinia. The red cell indices and results of globin chain synthesis in peripheral blood of obligate beta 0 thalassemia (beta 0 thal) carriers (parents of homozygous beta 0 thal children) and beta thalassemia (beta thal) carriers identified during mass screening are reported. Red cell indices were similar in obligate beta 0 carriers and in carriers diagnosed during mass screening. However there was a higher incidence of anemia in female obligate beta 0 thal carriers. In Sardinia the beta 0 thal carrier showed the usual hematological characteristics of the high Hb A2 beta thal carrier with microcytosis, hypochromia, reduced osmotic fragility; Hb F greater than 1% was found in 30% of the carriers. With MCV, MCH, osmotic fragility test (OFT) and Shine and Lal discriminant function we found 3.5%, 1.5%, 3.5% and 4.0% respectively false negatives in carrier identification. A part from one subject, all obligate carriers had elevated Hb A2 levels. The alpha/beta ratio in obligate carriers (mean +/- SD) was 1.83 +/- 0.26 (N = 30).", "PMID": 457422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12662", "title": "The structure of goat hemoglobins. V. A fourth beta chain variant (beta-D-Malta; 69 Asp is replaced by Gly) with decreased oxygen affinity and occurring at a high frequency in Malta.", "content": "During a survey of hemoglobin types in goats in the Republic of Malta a variant (Goat Hb D-Malta) was discovered which differs from normal goat Hb A by the substitution of an aspartyl residue in position beta 69 (E13) by a glycyl residue. The gene frequency of the beta D allele was 0.255; 29 homozygous Hb D goats were present among 327 animals sampled. Homozygous Hb D goats also produce Hb C, whose beta chains are the product of a non-allelic beta C structural gene. Goat Hb D-Malta has a distinctly decreased affinity for molecular oxygen.", "contents": "The structure of goat hemoglobins. V. A fourth beta chain variant (beta-D-Malta; 69 Asp is replaced by Gly) with decreased oxygen affinity and occurring at a high frequency in Malta. During a survey of hemoglobin types in goats in the Republic of Malta a variant (Goat Hb D-Malta) was discovered which differs from normal goat Hb A by the substitution of an aspartyl residue in position beta 69 (E13) by a glycyl residue. The gene frequency of the beta D allele was 0.255; 29 homozygous Hb D goats were present among 327 animals sampled. Homozygous Hb D goats also produce Hb C, whose beta chains are the product of a non-allelic beta C structural gene. Goat Hb D-Malta has a distinctly decreased affinity for molecular oxygen.", "PMID": 457423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12663", "title": "Alcohol embryopathy and diabetic fetopathy in the same newborn.", "content": "Both alcohol embryopathy and diabetic fetopathy were observed in the same female child. The mother was known to be alcoholic as well as diabetic. At birth the signs of diabetic fetopathy predominated: the child showed edematous subcutaneous fat, birth weight was 3650 g. The heart was enlarged. The patient's blood sugar levels ranged from 0 to 1.4 mMol/1 (0-25 mg/dl). Features of alcohol embryopathy were typical craniofacial dysmorphy, hypotonia of muscles and hyperexcitability. Later on the features of alcohol embryopathy predominated: the child became dystrophic with pronounced microcephaly, and the craniofacial dysmorphy clearly resembled other patients with alcohol embryopathy. This observation is in favour of the hypothesis, that alcohol induces cell hypoplasia in the embryo resulting in postnatal growth retardation. Maternal and consequently embryonic and fetal hyperglycemia induced cell hypertrophy in the embryo and fetus, which compensated the effect of alcohol on birth weight in our patient.", "contents": "Alcohol embryopathy and diabetic fetopathy in the same newborn. Both alcohol embryopathy and diabetic fetopathy were observed in the same female child. The mother was known to be alcoholic as well as diabetic. At birth the signs of diabetic fetopathy predominated: the child showed edematous subcutaneous fat, birth weight was 3650 g. The heart was enlarged. The patient's blood sugar levels ranged from 0 to 1.4 mMol/1 (0-25 mg/dl). Features of alcohol embryopathy were typical craniofacial dysmorphy, hypotonia of muscles and hyperexcitability. Later on the features of alcohol embryopathy predominated: the child became dystrophic with pronounced microcephaly, and the craniofacial dysmorphy clearly resembled other patients with alcohol embryopathy. This observation is in favour of the hypothesis, that alcohol induces cell hypoplasia in the embryo resulting in postnatal growth retardation. Maternal and consequently embryonic and fetal hyperglycemia induced cell hypertrophy in the embryo and fetus, which compensated the effect of alcohol on birth weight in our patient.", "PMID": 457429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12664", "title": "Postaxial polydactyly, hallux duplication, absence of the corpus callosum, macrencephaly and severe mental retardation: a new syndrome?", "content": "A male patient presented with a pattern of congenital malformations including macrocephaly, absence of the corpus callosum, hypertelorism, small nose, bilateral inguinal hernias, postaxial polydactyly of all limbs and duplication with syndactyly of the big toes. His development was marked by growth retardation, repeated infections, cyanotic spells, seizures, and gross motor and mental retardation. This case probably represents a newly recognized malformation syndrome of hitherto unknown etiology.", "contents": "Postaxial polydactyly, hallux duplication, absence of the corpus callosum, macrencephaly and severe mental retardation: a new syndrome? A male patient presented with a pattern of congenital malformations including macrocephaly, absence of the corpus callosum, hypertelorism, small nose, bilateral inguinal hernias, postaxial polydactyly of all limbs and duplication with syndactyly of the big toes. His development was marked by growth retardation, repeated infections, cyanotic spells, seizures, and gross motor and mental retardation. This case probably represents a newly recognized malformation syndrome of hitherto unknown etiology.", "PMID": 457430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12665", "title": "[The mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome or Kawasaki disease].", "content": "A case of \"mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome\" is presented. This syndrome is a nosological entity with clearly defined diagnostic criteria. The disease has mainly been observed in Japan, rarely in other countries. It is named according to its main manifestations on skin, lymph nodes and mucous membranes. We discuss the differential diagnosis and mention the danger of a severe course of this syndrome.", "contents": "[The mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome or Kawasaki disease]. A case of \"mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome\" is presented. This syndrome is a nosological entity with clearly defined diagnostic criteria. The disease has mainly been observed in Japan, rarely in other countries. It is named according to its main manifestations on skin, lymph nodes and mucous membranes. We discuss the differential diagnosis and mention the danger of a severe course of this syndrome.", "PMID": 457431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12666", "title": "Gynaecomastia in two prepubertal boys with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency.", "content": "Two male children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to a 11-beta-hydroxylase defect are described, in whom gynaecomastia developed before institution of therapy, or when the treatment was inadequate. Cortisone in appropriate doses caused the gynaecomastia to disappear.", "contents": "Gynaecomastia in two prepubertal boys with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency. Two male children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to a 11-beta-hydroxylase defect are described, in whom gynaecomastia developed before institution of therapy, or when the treatment was inadequate. Cortisone in appropriate doses caused the gynaecomastia to disappear.", "PMID": 457432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12667", "title": "Steroid synthesizing cellular sites in the ovary of the domestic pigeon Columba livia (Gmelin): a histochemical study.", "content": "The ovary of the domestic pigeon, Columba livia, has been assayed histochemically for the localization of delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (delta 5-3 beta-HSDH), 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17 beta-HSDA), 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta-HSDH), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-DH) and NADH-diaphorase activities during different periods of the reproductive cycle. delta 5-3 beta-HSDH, 17 beta-HSDH, 11 beta-HSDH, G6P-DH and NADH-diaphorase activity was found in the theca interna of growing, atretic and postovulatory follicles, the granulosa of ovulatory, atretic and postovulatory follicles, and interstitial gland cells during the pre-incubation and the laying periods. During the incubation and squab feeding periods only delta 5-3 beta-HSDH, G6P-DH and NADH-diaphorase activities were observed in the above mentioned cells. The steroidogenic potential of atretic follicles depends upon the type of atresia a follicle undergoes.", "contents": "Steroid synthesizing cellular sites in the ovary of the domestic pigeon Columba livia (Gmelin): a histochemical study. The ovary of the domestic pigeon, Columba livia, has been assayed histochemically for the localization of delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (delta 5-3 beta-HSDH), 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17 beta-HSDA), 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta-HSDH), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-DH) and NADH-diaphorase activities during different periods of the reproductive cycle. delta 5-3 beta-HSDH, 17 beta-HSDH, 11 beta-HSDH, G6P-DH and NADH-diaphorase activity was found in the theca interna of growing, atretic and postovulatory follicles, the granulosa of ovulatory, atretic and postovulatory follicles, and interstitial gland cells during the pre-incubation and the laying periods. During the incubation and squab feeding periods only delta 5-3 beta-HSDH, G6P-DH and NADH-diaphorase activities were observed in the above mentioned cells. The steroidogenic potential of atretic follicles depends upon the type of atresia a follicle undergoes.", "PMID": 457438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12668", "title": "Histochemical characteristics of mucins in the small intestine. A comparative study of normal mucosa, benign epithelial tumours and carcinoma.", "content": "The histochemical properties of the mucins in seven benign epithelial tumours and 15 carcinomas distributed along the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were investigated and compared with normal controls. This study reveals that (a) goblet cells in normal small intestine contain neutral and sialomucins but no sulphated material; (b) the proportion of the different types of mucins in the goblet cells vary along the crypts and villi with an increasing amount of sialomucins towards the villus top; (c) mucin composition also changes from duodenum to ileum particularly in the proportions of sialic acid types and in the presence of traces of sulphomucins in the ileal mucosa close to the ileo-caecal valve, suggesting a gradual transition through the small intestine to the colon; (d) benign tumours show the same mucin pattern as normal mucosa; (e) the adjacent to carcinoma shows increasing amounts of sialomucins and sulphomucins; (f) carcinomas present a variety of mucin patterns, and thus the study of mucins seems to be of no value in differentiating tumours of the small intestine from those elsewhere in the gastrointestinal tract. A working hypothesis based on the Unitary Theory of the origin of the intestinal epithelial cells is proposed to explain the variations in glycoprotein synthesis with cell differentiation and carcinogenes.", "contents": "Histochemical characteristics of mucins in the small intestine. A comparative study of normal mucosa, benign epithelial tumours and carcinoma. The histochemical properties of the mucins in seven benign epithelial tumours and 15 carcinomas distributed along the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were investigated and compared with normal controls. This study reveals that (a) goblet cells in normal small intestine contain neutral and sialomucins but no sulphated material; (b) the proportion of the different types of mucins in the goblet cells vary along the crypts and villi with an increasing amount of sialomucins towards the villus top; (c) mucin composition also changes from duodenum to ileum particularly in the proportions of sialic acid types and in the presence of traces of sulphomucins in the ileal mucosa close to the ileo-caecal valve, suggesting a gradual transition through the small intestine to the colon; (d) benign tumours show the same mucin pattern as normal mucosa; (e) the adjacent to carcinoma shows increasing amounts of sialomucins and sulphomucins; (f) carcinomas present a variety of mucin patterns, and thus the study of mucins seems to be of no value in differentiating tumours of the small intestine from those elsewhere in the gastrointestinal tract. A working hypothesis based on the Unitary Theory of the origin of the intestinal epithelial cells is proposed to explain the variations in glycoprotein synthesis with cell differentiation and carcinogenes.", "PMID": 457439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12669", "title": "Protein transmission in the intestine of the newborn lamb: the involvement of acid and alkaline phosphatase activity.", "content": "The localization of acid phosphatase activity was differentiated from that of alkaline phosphatase in the foregut of the newborn lamb by light and electron microscopy. The examination of samples from fed and unfed lambs indicated the presence of alkaline phosphatase activity in endocytic vesicles originating from the brush-border. These vesicles, associated with protein absorption, were particularly numerous in fed lambs and occurred throughout the cytoplasm of the enterocytes. Acid phosphatase activity was absent from vesicles in the apical cytoplasm but it was localized in most sub-nuclear vesicles, also in the Golgi apparatus and the lysosomes of macrophages. The sub-nuclear vesicles were often observed in close proximity to the lateral and basement membranes of the enterocytes, also in continuity with the intercellular space. It is suggested that these results indicate the mechanism for transmission of brush-border and lysosomal enzymes, along with the immunoglobulins, into the lymph of the newborn lamb.", "contents": "Protein transmission in the intestine of the newborn lamb: the involvement of acid and alkaline phosphatase activity. The localization of acid phosphatase activity was differentiated from that of alkaline phosphatase in the foregut of the newborn lamb by light and electron microscopy. The examination of samples from fed and unfed lambs indicated the presence of alkaline phosphatase activity in endocytic vesicles originating from the brush-border. These vesicles, associated with protein absorption, were particularly numerous in fed lambs and occurred throughout the cytoplasm of the enterocytes. Acid phosphatase activity was absent from vesicles in the apical cytoplasm but it was localized in most sub-nuclear vesicles, also in the Golgi apparatus and the lysosomes of macrophages. The sub-nuclear vesicles were often observed in close proximity to the lateral and basement membranes of the enterocytes, also in continuity with the intercellular space. It is suggested that these results indicate the mechanism for transmission of brush-border and lysosomal enzymes, along with the immunoglobulins, into the lymph of the newborn lamb.", "PMID": 457440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12670", "title": "Horseradish peroxidase as a label of injured cells.", "content": "The present study is concerned with artifacts likely to occur in a horseradish peroxidase exclusion test. Incubation of murine peritoneal macrophages and lymphocytes with the peroxidase showed a close relationship between the number of living cells and the percentage of cells excluding the tracer. The penetration of the cytoplasm by horseradish peroxidase is attributed to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane during the incubation (ranging from 10 to 120 min). It was not increased by the presence of tracer throughout the incubation period. However, concomitant fixation of the cell in the presence of horseradish peroxidase caused an increase in the influx of the tracer. The horseradish peroxidase exclusing test applied to the guinea-pig organ of Corti has proved to be valid provided that: (a) mechanical lesions prior to the tracer incubation are avoided; (b) incubation is terminated by removal of the extracellular tracer; (c) fixation is carried out as soon as possible; (d) a low concentration of horseradish peroxidase is used; and (e) specimens are incubated in diaminobenzidine-H2O2 medium for the shortest possible period. Although fixation-induced cytoplasmic infiltration by horseradish peroxidase was not detected in cochlear specimens, the findings call attention to possible sources of error and define the level of significance of the test. Horseradish peroxidase does not appear to be a cytotoxic agent under the conditions used.", "contents": "Horseradish peroxidase as a label of injured cells. The present study is concerned with artifacts likely to occur in a horseradish peroxidase exclusion test. Incubation of murine peritoneal macrophages and lymphocytes with the peroxidase showed a close relationship between the number of living cells and the percentage of cells excluding the tracer. The penetration of the cytoplasm by horseradish peroxidase is attributed to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane during the incubation (ranging from 10 to 120 min). It was not increased by the presence of tracer throughout the incubation period. However, concomitant fixation of the cell in the presence of horseradish peroxidase caused an increase in the influx of the tracer. The horseradish peroxidase exclusing test applied to the guinea-pig organ of Corti has proved to be valid provided that: (a) mechanical lesions prior to the tracer incubation are avoided; (b) incubation is terminated by removal of the extracellular tracer; (c) fixation is carried out as soon as possible; (d) a low concentration of horseradish peroxidase is used; and (e) specimens are incubated in diaminobenzidine-H2O2 medium for the shortest possible period. Although fixation-induced cytoplasmic infiltration by horseradish peroxidase was not detected in cochlear specimens, the findings call attention to possible sources of error and define the level of significance of the test. Horseradish peroxidase does not appear to be a cytotoxic agent under the conditions used.", "PMID": 457441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12671", "title": "The routine sectioning of undecalcified bone for cytochemical studies.", "content": "A method is described by which serial sections of fresh, undermineralized adult bone can be obtained. Such sections are suitable for cytochemical investigations and can expedite diagnostic histology.", "contents": "The routine sectioning of undecalcified bone for cytochemical studies. A method is described by which serial sections of fresh, undermineralized adult bone can be obtained. Such sections are suitable for cytochemical investigations and can expedite diagnostic histology.", "PMID": 457442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12672", "title": "Ultrastructural features of acidic complex carbohydrates in the intercellular matrix of the ovarian follicles in adult mice.", "content": "In the intercellular matrix of the granulosa layer of the mouse ovarian follicles, ultrastructural features of acidic complex carbohydrates have been studied by means of dialyzed iron (DI) staining in combination with procedures of digestion with Streptomyces and testicular hyaluronidases. In the intercellular matrix, DI reactive structures containing acidic complex carbohydrates consist of layers of a variable thickness coating the plasma membrane of the granulosa cells and reticular elements distributed in the spaces between the cells. The latter exists in two appearances; one is clumped masses of irregular shapes and different sizes, whereas the other being filamentous figures radiating from the masses. The effects of digestion with Streptomyces and testicular hyaluronidases upon the DI staining of the tissues indicate that the DI reactive structures in the intercellular matrix contain at least three types of acidic complex carbohydrates; hyaluronic acid, isomeric chondroitin sulfates and other acidic glycosaminoglycans. The histophysiological activities played by these particular complex carbohydrates have been briefly discussed.", "contents": "Ultrastructural features of acidic complex carbohydrates in the intercellular matrix of the ovarian follicles in adult mice. In the intercellular matrix of the granulosa layer of the mouse ovarian follicles, ultrastructural features of acidic complex carbohydrates have been studied by means of dialyzed iron (DI) staining in combination with procedures of digestion with Streptomyces and testicular hyaluronidases. In the intercellular matrix, DI reactive structures containing acidic complex carbohydrates consist of layers of a variable thickness coating the plasma membrane of the granulosa cells and reticular elements distributed in the spaces between the cells. The latter exists in two appearances; one is clumped masses of irregular shapes and different sizes, whereas the other being filamentous figures radiating from the masses. The effects of digestion with Streptomyces and testicular hyaluronidases upon the DI staining of the tissues indicate that the DI reactive structures in the intercellular matrix contain at least three types of acidic complex carbohydrates; hyaluronic acid, isomeric chondroitin sulfates and other acidic glycosaminoglycans. The histophysiological activities played by these particular complex carbohydrates have been briefly discussed.", "PMID": 457445} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12673", "title": "Short time observations of morphological changes and cholinesterase distribution in lymphatic organs of the mouse after corticosteroid and X-ray treatment.", "content": "The changes in thymus, spleen and lymph nodes of the mouse after a single cortisone application or a single whole body x-irradiation were investigated morphologically and histochemically. During 24 h the alterations following the cortisone application are at all stages examined indistinguishable from those following the x-irradiation. The first signs of lymphocyte destruction can be observed already in the first two hours after treatment. Almost at the same time macrophages accumulate at the sites of cell death in the lymphatic organs studied. The eosinophils display a different behaviour. While they accompany the macrophages in the thymus already at the first stages, they appear in the spleen and lymph nodes with a latency of 6 and 8 h, respectively. The highest amount of necrotic cells is found ten hours after both treatments. At the same time the accumulation of macrophages and eosinophils reaches its maximum. The cholinesterase in the lymphatic organs is largely the true cholinesterase. The enzyme-activity increases in the cortex of the thymus gradually 6 h after treatment, showing the highest deposit of reaction product at 10 h. In spleen and lymph nodes the cholinesterase shows only slight variations. The possible role of the cholinesterase-activity in these non-cholinergic tissues is discussed.", "contents": "Short time observations of morphological changes and cholinesterase distribution in lymphatic organs of the mouse after corticosteroid and X-ray treatment. The changes in thymus, spleen and lymph nodes of the mouse after a single cortisone application or a single whole body x-irradiation were investigated morphologically and histochemically. During 24 h the alterations following the cortisone application are at all stages examined indistinguishable from those following the x-irradiation. The first signs of lymphocyte destruction can be observed already in the first two hours after treatment. Almost at the same time macrophages accumulate at the sites of cell death in the lymphatic organs studied. The eosinophils display a different behaviour. While they accompany the macrophages in the thymus already at the first stages, they appear in the spleen and lymph nodes with a latency of 6 and 8 h, respectively. The highest amount of necrotic cells is found ten hours after both treatments. At the same time the accumulation of macrophages and eosinophils reaches its maximum. The cholinesterase in the lymphatic organs is largely the true cholinesterase. The enzyme-activity increases in the cortex of the thymus gradually 6 h after treatment, showing the highest deposit of reaction product at 10 h. In spleen and lymph nodes the cholinesterase shows only slight variations. The possible role of the cholinesterase-activity in these non-cholinergic tissues is discussed.", "PMID": 457446} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12674", "title": "DNA content and chromosome number of a heteroploid human tumour cell line.", "content": "In this paper investigations concerning the relation between variability of chromosome number and variability of DNA content within the cells of a tumour stemline are reported. A highly heteroploid human tumour cell line was used, which was derived from a chondrosarcoma. Flow cytometrical and scanning cytophotometrical measurements confirmed the heteroploid nature of the original cell line and of several subclones. Measurement of the DNA content per metaphase showed a linear relation between chromosome number and DNA content of heteroploid cells. This finding is discussed with regard to its implications for the mechanism of heteroploidy in tumour cells.", "contents": "DNA content and chromosome number of a heteroploid human tumour cell line. In this paper investigations concerning the relation between variability of chromosome number and variability of DNA content within the cells of a tumour stemline are reported. A highly heteroploid human tumour cell line was used, which was derived from a chondrosarcoma. Flow cytometrical and scanning cytophotometrical measurements confirmed the heteroploid nature of the original cell line and of several subclones. Measurement of the DNA content per metaphase showed a linear relation between chromosome number and DNA content of heteroploid cells. This finding is discussed with regard to its implications for the mechanism of heteroploidy in tumour cells.", "PMID": 457447} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12675", "title": "[Peptidases II. Localization of dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV). Histochemical and biochemical study].", "content": "Fresh frozen, unfixed, chloroforme-acetone treated or freeze-dried cryostat sections or sections from aldehyde-fixed blocks of tissue were tried for the histochemical investigation of dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV) with L-glycyl-L-prolyl(gly-pro)-naphthylamides as substrates and stable or unstable diazonium salts for simultaneous coupling and various buffers, pH 5--7.5 in rats, mice, guinea-pigs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and human enterobiopsies. The best results are obtained with 1.7--3.4 mM gly-pro-4-methoxy-2-naphthylamide and 1 mg Fast Blue B/ml or (with some limitations) 0.025 ml hexazotized new fuchsine/ml in 0.1 M cacodylate or phosphate buffer, pH 7.5 and unfixed sections for the demonstration of the total activity of DPP IV and freeze-dried celloidin-mounted cryostat sections for the precise localization of the enzyme or the detection of lysosomes, Golgi apparatus and secretion granules sections from aldehyde fixed tissue blocks are only suitable to study the lysosomal hydrolysis of gly-pro-naphthylamides between pH 5 and 7 when hexazotized p-rosaniline or new fuchsine are employed. DPP IV is firmly bound to strutures and shows species- and organ-dependent differences. In general, the enzyme occurs in the capillary endothelium, sinusoidal cells, perineurium, epithelial cells of intercalated and striated ducts, microvillous zone of intestinal crypts and villi, uterus, Fallopian tubes, ductus epididymis and proximal renal tubules, hepatocyte and lymphocyte membrane, plasmalemma of pseudostratified and transient epithelia and in the capsules and interstitium of many organs. These sites of activity can be completely inhibited by diisopropyl fluorophosphate and partially by Pb2+; Mg2+, Mn2+, Co2+ EDTA are without any influence. Phenantrolin may activate DPP IV. The biochemical assay works with 10 mM gly-pro-2-naphthylamide in 0.1 M cacodylate buffer, pH 7; the enzyme activity is determined fluorometrically in guinea-pig and rat organs; the data confirm and enlarge the species- and organ-dependent differences revealed by histochemistry. Compared with other dipeptide as well as tripeptide and amino acid naphthylamides the results obtained for DPP IV suggest a peptidylpeptidase which seems to be involved in other metabolic processes beside the degradation of collagen.", "contents": "[Peptidases II. Localization of dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV). Histochemical and biochemical study]. Fresh frozen, unfixed, chloroforme-acetone treated or freeze-dried cryostat sections or sections from aldehyde-fixed blocks of tissue were tried for the histochemical investigation of dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV) with L-glycyl-L-prolyl(gly-pro)-naphthylamides as substrates and stable or unstable diazonium salts for simultaneous coupling and various buffers, pH 5--7.5 in rats, mice, guinea-pigs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and human enterobiopsies. The best results are obtained with 1.7--3.4 mM gly-pro-4-methoxy-2-naphthylamide and 1 mg Fast Blue B/ml or (with some limitations) 0.025 ml hexazotized new fuchsine/ml in 0.1 M cacodylate or phosphate buffer, pH 7.5 and unfixed sections for the demonstration of the total activity of DPP IV and freeze-dried celloidin-mounted cryostat sections for the precise localization of the enzyme or the detection of lysosomes, Golgi apparatus and secretion granules sections from aldehyde fixed tissue blocks are only suitable to study the lysosomal hydrolysis of gly-pro-naphthylamides between pH 5 and 7 when hexazotized p-rosaniline or new fuchsine are employed. DPP IV is firmly bound to strutures and shows species- and organ-dependent differences. In general, the enzyme occurs in the capillary endothelium, sinusoidal cells, perineurium, epithelial cells of intercalated and striated ducts, microvillous zone of intestinal crypts and villi, uterus, Fallopian tubes, ductus epididymis and proximal renal tubules, hepatocyte and lymphocyte membrane, plasmalemma of pseudostratified and transient epithelia and in the capsules and interstitium of many organs. These sites of activity can be completely inhibited by diisopropyl fluorophosphate and partially by Pb2+; Mg2+, Mn2+, Co2+ EDTA are without any influence. Phenantrolin may activate DPP IV. The biochemical assay works with 10 mM gly-pro-2-naphthylamide in 0.1 M cacodylate buffer, pH 7; the enzyme activity is determined fluorometrically in guinea-pig and rat organs; the data confirm and enlarge the species- and organ-dependent differences revealed by histochemistry. Compared with other dipeptide as well as tripeptide and amino acid naphthylamides the results obtained for DPP IV suggest a peptidylpeptidase which seems to be involved in other metabolic processes beside the degradation of collagen.", "PMID": 457448} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12676", "title": "Distribution and origin of acetylcholinesterase activity in the capillaries of the brain.", "content": "Areas containing AChE-positive capillaries were mapped in the brain of the cat and the guinea pig. Regions with AChE-positive capillaries mostly also contain neuronal elements with AChE activity. Electron-microscopical cytochemistry revealed localization of AChE in basement membranes of endothelial cells and pericytes very often in continuity with activity of the extracellular space. Intraendothelial AChE activity was seen only in pinocytic vesicles. The vascular AChE is thought to be of neuronal origin since no cytochemical evidence has been obtained for a synthesis of this enzyme in endothelial or other non-neuronal cells in the CNS.", "contents": "Distribution and origin of acetylcholinesterase activity in the capillaries of the brain. Areas containing AChE-positive capillaries were mapped in the brain of the cat and the guinea pig. Regions with AChE-positive capillaries mostly also contain neuronal elements with AChE activity. Electron-microscopical cytochemistry revealed localization of AChE in basement membranes of endothelial cells and pericytes very often in continuity with activity of the extracellular space. Intraendothelial AChE activity was seen only in pinocytic vesicles. The vascular AChE is thought to be of neuronal origin since no cytochemical evidence has been obtained for a synthesis of this enzyme in endothelial or other non-neuronal cells in the CNS.", "PMID": 457449} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12677", "title": "Histochemical and cytochemical studies of alkaline phosphatase activity in the synapses of rat brain.", "content": "Although a number of studies have been carried out on alkaline phosphatase (A1-P), this enzyme has not definitely been detected in synapses at the electron-microscopic level. Recently, we have successfully demonstrated, by perfusing specimens with 1% glutaraldehyde for fixation for as short a time as 8-10 min, that A1-P activity is localized on the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes of the rat central nervous system (CNS). There were four types of presynaptic membrane: (1) those with the activity only on the membrane, (2) those with the activity only on the synaptic vesicle membrane, (3) those with the activity on both the presynaptic membrane and the synaptic vesicle membrane, and (4) those entirely free of the activity. The postsynaptic membranes were classified into two varieties: (1) those with the activity in the postsynaptic membrane and the postsynaptic thickening, and (2) those entirely without the activity. Thus, the occurrence of the enzyme activity assumed various combinations of presynaptic and postsynaptic involvement. The incidence of synapses either with presynaptic or postsynaptic activity varied distinctly from site to site.", "contents": "Histochemical and cytochemical studies of alkaline phosphatase activity in the synapses of rat brain. Although a number of studies have been carried out on alkaline phosphatase (A1-P), this enzyme has not definitely been detected in synapses at the electron-microscopic level. Recently, we have successfully demonstrated, by perfusing specimens with 1% glutaraldehyde for fixation for as short a time as 8-10 min, that A1-P activity is localized on the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes of the rat central nervous system (CNS). There were four types of presynaptic membrane: (1) those with the activity only on the membrane, (2) those with the activity only on the synaptic vesicle membrane, (3) those with the activity on both the presynaptic membrane and the synaptic vesicle membrane, and (4) those entirely free of the activity. The postsynaptic membranes were classified into two varieties: (1) those with the activity in the postsynaptic membrane and the postsynaptic thickening, and (2) those entirely without the activity. Thus, the occurrence of the enzyme activity assumed various combinations of presynaptic and postsynaptic involvement. The incidence of synapses either with presynaptic or postsynaptic activity varied distinctly from site to site.", "PMID": 457450} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12678", "title": "Elemental analysis of histochemically defined cells in the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris.", "content": "A method for preparation of biological specimens for electron probe X-ray microanalysis is described, that aims at retaining the original elemental distribution within the tissue at the cellular level. The tissue is without any chemical fixation, quench-frozen, and 16-micron sections are prepared with a conventional cryomicrotome, transferred to a carbon specimen holder and freeze-dried. Adjacent serial sections, collected on glass slides and stained with various histological procedures, are used to correlate the data obtained by X-ray microanalysis with other histochemical information on the same cell or tissue. To demonstrate the possibilities of the method, sections of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris were analyzed. In the chloragogenous cells, high concentrations of Ca, Zn and P were found. The inner and outer muscle layer show slightly different properties, both with regard to elemental composition and to myofibrillar ATPase activity.", "contents": "Elemental analysis of histochemically defined cells in the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris. A method for preparation of biological specimens for electron probe X-ray microanalysis is described, that aims at retaining the original elemental distribution within the tissue at the cellular level. The tissue is without any chemical fixation, quench-frozen, and 16-micron sections are prepared with a conventional cryomicrotome, transferred to a carbon specimen holder and freeze-dried. Adjacent serial sections, collected on glass slides and stained with various histological procedures, are used to correlate the data obtained by X-ray microanalysis with other histochemical information on the same cell or tissue. To demonstrate the possibilities of the method, sections of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris were analyzed. In the chloragogenous cells, high concentrations of Ca, Zn and P were found. The inner and outer muscle layer show slightly different properties, both with regard to elemental composition and to myofibrillar ATPase activity.", "PMID": 457452} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12679", "title": "Mucosubstances of rabbit granulocytes studied by means of electron-microscopic radioautography and X-ray microanalysis.", "content": "Rabbit bone marrow cells have been studied by means of light- and electron-microscopic radioautography and X-ray microanalysis. Carrier free sulfuric acid was used as the radioactive precursor in this experiment. Immature granulocytes showed more active incorporation than mature ones. Silver grains were observed in the Golgi apparatus and granules in three kinds of granulocytes. Electron-microscopically, immature granules showed the incorporation of inorganic sulfate, while mature ones did not. Sulfur was detected in all kinds of granules of the three granulocyte types by X-ray microanalysis. It is concluded that incorporated inorganic sulfur may be utilized for the synthesis of acid glycosaminoglycans and the sulfur detected by X-ray microanalysis may be that contained in the acid glycosaminoglycan. The sulfur detected in the specific granules of the heterophil probably derives from proteins or polypeptides incorporating sulfur containing amino acids.", "contents": "Mucosubstances of rabbit granulocytes studied by means of electron-microscopic radioautography and X-ray microanalysis. Rabbit bone marrow cells have been studied by means of light- and electron-microscopic radioautography and X-ray microanalysis. Carrier free sulfuric acid was used as the radioactive precursor in this experiment. Immature granulocytes showed more active incorporation than mature ones. Silver grains were observed in the Golgi apparatus and granules in three kinds of granulocytes. Electron-microscopically, immature granules showed the incorporation of inorganic sulfate, while mature ones did not. Sulfur was detected in all kinds of granules of the three granulocyte types by X-ray microanalysis. It is concluded that incorporated inorganic sulfur may be utilized for the synthesis of acid glycosaminoglycans and the sulfur detected by X-ray microanalysis may be that contained in the acid glycosaminoglycan. The sulfur detected in the specific granules of the heterophil probably derives from proteins or polypeptides incorporating sulfur containing amino acids.", "PMID": 457451} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12680", "title": "Cytochemical studies on cytoplasmic granular elements in the hamster pineal gland.", "content": "The pineal gland of adult golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) was studied by various cytochemical methods at the electron microscopic level: (1) the modified chromaffin reaction specific for 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), (2) argentaffin reaction, (3) zinc-iodide-osmium (ZIO) mixture reaction and (4) acid phosphatase reaction. In the pinealocytes, the dense-cored vesicles (80-160 nm in diameter) show both chromaffinity and argentaffinity, while the population of dense bodies (150-400 nm in diameter) is reactive to ammoniacal silver solution and ZIO mixture but not to the modified chromaffin reaction. After incubation for demonstration of acid phosphatase activity, reaction products are localized in some, but not all, of the dense bodies, in some of the small vesicles in the Golgi region and in one or two inner Golgi saccules. In nerve fibers in the pineal gland, small granulated vesicles are also reactive to the modified chromaffin reaction and ZIO mixture. Based upon these cytochemical results the following conclusions have been reached: (1) dense cored vesicles in the pinealocytes and small granulated vesicles in the nerve fibers of the hamster pineal gland contain 5-HT, and (2) the population of dense bodies in the pinealocytes is heterogeneous, some are lysosomes and the other are possibly the granules responsible for the secretion of pineal peptides.", "contents": "Cytochemical studies on cytoplasmic granular elements in the hamster pineal gland. The pineal gland of adult golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) was studied by various cytochemical methods at the electron microscopic level: (1) the modified chromaffin reaction specific for 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), (2) argentaffin reaction, (3) zinc-iodide-osmium (ZIO) mixture reaction and (4) acid phosphatase reaction. In the pinealocytes, the dense-cored vesicles (80-160 nm in diameter) show both chromaffinity and argentaffinity, while the population of dense bodies (150-400 nm in diameter) is reactive to ammoniacal silver solution and ZIO mixture but not to the modified chromaffin reaction. After incubation for demonstration of acid phosphatase activity, reaction products are localized in some, but not all, of the dense bodies, in some of the small vesicles in the Golgi region and in one or two inner Golgi saccules. In nerve fibers in the pineal gland, small granulated vesicles are also reactive to the modified chromaffin reaction and ZIO mixture. Based upon these cytochemical results the following conclusions have been reached: (1) dense cored vesicles in the pinealocytes and small granulated vesicles in the nerve fibers of the hamster pineal gland contain 5-HT, and (2) the population of dense bodies in the pinealocytes is heterogeneous, some are lysosomes and the other are possibly the granules responsible for the secretion of pineal peptides.", "PMID": 457453} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12681", "title": "Ultrastructural distribution of AChE in Catenula leptocephala (Nuttycombe, 1956).", "content": "Acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE, E.C. 3.1.1.7) was examined in different tissues of Catenula leptocephala (Nuttycombe, 1956). Eserine and iso-OMPA were used to distinguish AChE from non-specific cholinesterases (ChE, E.C. 3.1.1.8). The enzyme was located mainly in the brain neuropil, the peripheral nervous system, neuromuscular junctions, on the membrane of muscle cells and of cells with rhabdites. The distribution of the enzyme suggests that cholinergic transmission occurs in Catenula leptocephala, while simultaneously the presence of AChE on the membranes of muscle cells points to the receipt of cholinergic stimulation. The role of AChE in differentiation and maturation of cells with rhabdites is also discussed in this paper.", "contents": "Ultrastructural distribution of AChE in Catenula leptocephala (Nuttycombe, 1956). Acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE, E.C. 3.1.1.7) was examined in different tissues of Catenula leptocephala (Nuttycombe, 1956). Eserine and iso-OMPA were used to distinguish AChE from non-specific cholinesterases (ChE, E.C. 3.1.1.8). The enzyme was located mainly in the brain neuropil, the peripheral nervous system, neuromuscular junctions, on the membrane of muscle cells and of cells with rhabdites. The distribution of the enzyme suggests that cholinergic transmission occurs in Catenula leptocephala, while simultaneously the presence of AChE on the membranes of muscle cells points to the receipt of cholinergic stimulation. The role of AChE in differentiation and maturation of cells with rhabdites is also discussed in this paper.", "PMID": 457454} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12682", "title": "The increase in activity of acid hydrolases in muscles of rats after subcutaneous administration of dimethyl-para-phenylene diamine. A combined histochemical and biochemical investigation. I. The histochemical investigation.", "content": "The activity of acid hydrolases in skeletal muscles of normal rats and of rats after subcutaneous administration of dimethyl-para-phenylene diamine (DPPD) was studied with a combined histochemical and biochemical investigation. In this communication the histochemical findings are presented. After 4 days of DPPD treatment, coagulation necrosis, fragmentation and disintegration of fibres were seen in the muscles. An inflammatory infiltrate was seen between the muscle fibres. These pathological changes reached maximum intensity after 7 to 9 days. After 11 days the changes became less, despite continued treatment with DPPD. From the histochemical findings it appeared that the activity of acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase and E600 resistant non-specific esterase was increased in both a granular and a diffuse pattern in the skeletal muscles of the DPPD rats. The increase in activity of leucine aminopeptidase was much less pronounced and was mainly granular. The increase in the activity of acid hydrolases ran parallel to the severity of the pathological changes and reached a maximum after 7 to 9 days of DPPD treatment. The statistical calculations of the histochemical findings revealed that the increased activity of one acid hydrolase was significantly paralleled by an increased activity of a second hydrolase. There was a moderate probability that the activity of all other histochemically studied acid hydrolases, with the exception of leucine aminopeptidase, was increased. There was no difference in activity and localization of the acid hydrolases studied in aerobic type I and anaerobic type II fibres. The localization of acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase activity in muscle fibres and in inflammatory infiltrate mostly coincided. In cases where these enzymes were localized both centrally and in the subsarcolemnal areas of the muscle fibres, the activity of E600 resistant non-specific esterase was usually, and the activity of leucine aminopeptidase was exclusively located in the subsarcolemnal areas. All of the acid hydrolases examined were found to be present in the inflammatory exudate and in the connective tissue.", "contents": "The increase in activity of acid hydrolases in muscles of rats after subcutaneous administration of dimethyl-para-phenylene diamine. A combined histochemical and biochemical investigation. I. The histochemical investigation. The activity of acid hydrolases in skeletal muscles of normal rats and of rats after subcutaneous administration of dimethyl-para-phenylene diamine (DPPD) was studied with a combined histochemical and biochemical investigation. In this communication the histochemical findings are presented. After 4 days of DPPD treatment, coagulation necrosis, fragmentation and disintegration of fibres were seen in the muscles. An inflammatory infiltrate was seen between the muscle fibres. These pathological changes reached maximum intensity after 7 to 9 days. After 11 days the changes became less, despite continued treatment with DPPD. From the histochemical findings it appeared that the activity of acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase and E600 resistant non-specific esterase was increased in both a granular and a diffuse pattern in the skeletal muscles of the DPPD rats. The increase in activity of leucine aminopeptidase was much less pronounced and was mainly granular. The increase in the activity of acid hydrolases ran parallel to the severity of the pathological changes and reached a maximum after 7 to 9 days of DPPD treatment. The statistical calculations of the histochemical findings revealed that the increased activity of one acid hydrolase was significantly paralleled by an increased activity of a second hydrolase. There was a moderate probability that the activity of all other histochemically studied acid hydrolases, with the exception of leucine aminopeptidase, was increased. There was no difference in activity and localization of the acid hydrolases studied in aerobic type I and anaerobic type II fibres. The localization of acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase activity in muscle fibres and in inflammatory infiltrate mostly coincided. In cases where these enzymes were localized both centrally and in the subsarcolemnal areas of the muscle fibres, the activity of E600 resistant non-specific esterase was usually, and the activity of leucine aminopeptidase was exclusively located in the subsarcolemnal areas. All of the acid hydrolases examined were found to be present in the inflammatory exudate and in the connective tissue.", "PMID": 457455} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12683", "title": "[The significance of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid for the ENT specialist (author's transl)].", "content": "The otorhinolaryngologist often encounters patients with pathological findings in the thyroid gland which may be overlooked if he is not aware. Alarming symptoms are rarely present in a goiter which is undergoing malignant change. Papillary and follicular carcinomas can exist over long periods of time as nodular goiters with globus symptoms or are discovered after cervical lymph nodes have appeared. The discovery of a goiter is thus of clinical importance regardless of the patient's age. Diagnostic iodine isotope scanning and cytological analysis is to be recommended as a matter of general policy. Excellent results in the treatment of papillary carcinoma can be obtained by subtotal thyroidectomy with modified neck dissection, followed by isotope elimination of remaining thyroid tissue.", "contents": "[The significance of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid for the ENT specialist (author's transl)]. The otorhinolaryngologist often encounters patients with pathological findings in the thyroid gland which may be overlooked if he is not aware. Alarming symptoms are rarely present in a goiter which is undergoing malignant change. Papillary and follicular carcinomas can exist over long periods of time as nodular goiters with globus symptoms or are discovered after cervical lymph nodes have appeared. The discovery of a goiter is thus of clinical importance regardless of the patient's age. Diagnostic iodine isotope scanning and cytological analysis is to be recommended as a matter of general policy. Excellent results in the treatment of papillary carcinoma can be obtained by subtotal thyroidectomy with modified neck dissection, followed by isotope elimination of remaining thyroid tissue.", "PMID": 457456} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12684", "title": "[Retention cysts of the vocal cords (author's transl)].", "content": "Present day knowledge in laryngology maintains that the free edge of the true cord mucosa is devoid of glands so that retention cysts should not occur in this tissue. When such cysts do occur, it is difficult to define their pathogenesis. Reference is made to the author's earlier study which found a regular occurrence of mucous glands in the squamous epithelial region of the vocal cords. A retention cyst in the true cord is described histologically in the present report. The glands responsible for these cysts are believed to function by moistening the mucous membrane of the vocal cords.", "contents": "[Retention cysts of the vocal cords (author's transl)]. Present day knowledge in laryngology maintains that the free edge of the true cord mucosa is devoid of glands so that retention cysts should not occur in this tissue. When such cysts do occur, it is difficult to define their pathogenesis. Reference is made to the author's earlier study which found a regular occurrence of mucous glands in the squamous epithelial region of the vocal cords. A retention cyst in the true cord is described histologically in the present report. The glands responsible for these cysts are believed to function by moistening the mucous membrane of the vocal cords.", "PMID": 457457} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12685", "title": "[Treatment of sudden hearing loss as a clinical problem (author's transl)].", "content": "From the methods used in treatment of sudden hearing loss, certain measures have been found to be best for the improvement of microcirculation disturbances in the inner ear, as based on antisludge effects. The effectiveness of drugs such as dextran infusion, procaine, xanthinol nicotinate, beta-pyridylcarbinol and heparin cannot be compared, nor can techniques such as stellate block, ATP-infusions, and pure vasodilators (Betaserc). Analysis of oxygen inhalations have thus far been incomplete. In the following analysis, we compared the results of therapy following stellate block in 50 patients with those obtained after dextran-papaverine infusions in 16 hospitalized patients. Prior to treatment, patient parameters (including average hearing loss and time-factor) were made uniform so that further statistical comparison was possible. In the group of patients treated with stellate block, we found an average hearing improvement to be about 23 dB (as based on analysis of single frequencies at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 kHz). In the group of patients treated with dextran infusions, an average hearing improvement of 18 dB was found. Statistical analysis did not indicate any significant effect differences between either treatment method. Taking other information from the literature into consideration, we may establish that the maximum hearing improvement which can be reached with the discussed treatment methods to be about 20--30 dB.", "contents": "[Treatment of sudden hearing loss as a clinical problem (author's transl)]. From the methods used in treatment of sudden hearing loss, certain measures have been found to be best for the improvement of microcirculation disturbances in the inner ear, as based on antisludge effects. The effectiveness of drugs such as dextran infusion, procaine, xanthinol nicotinate, beta-pyridylcarbinol and heparin cannot be compared, nor can techniques such as stellate block, ATP-infusions, and pure vasodilators (Betaserc). Analysis of oxygen inhalations have thus far been incomplete. In the following analysis, we compared the results of therapy following stellate block in 50 patients with those obtained after dextran-papaverine infusions in 16 hospitalized patients. Prior to treatment, patient parameters (including average hearing loss and time-factor) were made uniform so that further statistical comparison was possible. In the group of patients treated with stellate block, we found an average hearing improvement to be about 23 dB (as based on analysis of single frequencies at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 kHz). In the group of patients treated with dextran infusions, an average hearing improvement of 18 dB was found. Statistical analysis did not indicate any significant effect differences between either treatment method. Taking other information from the literature into consideration, we may establish that the maximum hearing improvement which can be reached with the discussed treatment methods to be about 20--30 dB.", "PMID": 457458} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12686", "title": "[Computer analysis of electronystagmograms. First report: the normal pendular test ENG (author's transl)].", "content": "In an attempt to standardize the interpretation of electronystagmograms the results of computerized analysis of pendular test nystagmograms have been statistically evaluated. All the nystagmus components show marked dependance on age. The range of normal reactions is determined by means of double standard deviation. The cumulogram of the nystagmus slow phase demonstrates the smallest deviation of all the analysed parameters, and this makes it suitable in the pendular test for diagnostic estimation. The cumulogram provides information on nystagmus slow phase duration, amplitude, symmetry or irregularity.", "contents": "[Computer analysis of electronystagmograms. First report: the normal pendular test ENG (author's transl)]. In an attempt to standardize the interpretation of electronystagmograms the results of computerized analysis of pendular test nystagmograms have been statistically evaluated. All the nystagmus components show marked dependance on age. The range of normal reactions is determined by means of double standard deviation. The cumulogram of the nystagmus slow phase demonstrates the smallest deviation of all the analysed parameters, and this makes it suitable in the pendular test for diagnostic estimation. The cumulogram provides information on nystagmus slow phase duration, amplitude, symmetry or irregularity.", "PMID": 457459} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12687", "title": "[Antibiotic therapy - a critical review (author's transl)].", "content": "The antibiotic management of tonsillitis, acute otitis media, sinusitis and bronchitis is critically reviewed. Tonsillitis due to Group A streptococci must be treated with penicillin for 10 days in order to prevent complications. Antibiotics should not be used locally in pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Tonsillectomy does neither reduce the incidence of streptococcal tonsillitis nor of rheumatic complications. Antibiotic cover for tonsillectomy is not indicated except in patients with rheumatic heart disease or in those with prosthetic heart valves. The indications for the prophylactic use of antibiotics in ear, nose and throat surgery are discussed.", "contents": "[Antibiotic therapy - a critical review (author's transl)]. The antibiotic management of tonsillitis, acute otitis media, sinusitis and bronchitis is critically reviewed. Tonsillitis due to Group A streptococci must be treated with penicillin for 10 days in order to prevent complications. Antibiotics should not be used locally in pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Tonsillectomy does neither reduce the incidence of streptococcal tonsillitis nor of rheumatic complications. Antibiotic cover for tonsillectomy is not indicated except in patients with rheumatic heart disease or in those with prosthetic heart valves. The indications for the prophylactic use of antibiotics in ear, nose and throat surgery are discussed.", "PMID": 457463} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12688", "title": "[Immune serum globulin E in patients with leukoplakia (author's transl)].", "content": "Significant changes of humoral factors can occur during the development and growth of malignant tumors. Such can be observed by the periodic recording of immune serum globulin E levels if sensitive RIA methods are employed. Observations of normal persons show largely stable immune serum globulin E levels, and are comparable in patients with leukoplakia of the larynx as well as in patients whose malignant conditions were removed by oepration or radiotherapy. In three patients, a statistically significant increase in serum immune globulin E was recorded immediately before malignant degeneration of known leukoplakia occurred, and was also found in 22 control tumor patients who had experienced local relapses of disease.", "contents": "[Immune serum globulin E in patients with leukoplakia (author's transl)]. Significant changes of humoral factors can occur during the development and growth of malignant tumors. Such can be observed by the periodic recording of immune serum globulin E levels if sensitive RIA methods are employed. Observations of normal persons show largely stable immune serum globulin E levels, and are comparable in patients with leukoplakia of the larynx as well as in patients whose malignant conditions were removed by oepration or radiotherapy. In three patients, a statistically significant increase in serum immune globulin E was recorded immediately before malignant degeneration of known leukoplakia occurred, and was also found in 22 control tumor patients who had experienced local relapses of disease.", "PMID": 457464} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12689", "title": "[Electromyography of the cricoarytenoid muscle in the unsedated patient using the zoom-endoscope (author's transl)].", "content": "The EMG enables diagnosis, follow-up and prognosis of vocal cord palsy as well as indications for surgery. Using the zoom-endoscope of von Stuckrad electromyography of the larynx can be performed under topical anaesthesia. With a specially designed instrument the needle electrode can be transorally applied exactly into the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle and into any other muscle of the larynx. As the patient can follow instructions the voluntary muscle activity can be observed on the monitor and stored on tape during inspiration, exspiration and phonation. Replay and electronic summation are possible.", "contents": "[Electromyography of the cricoarytenoid muscle in the unsedated patient using the zoom-endoscope (author's transl)]. The EMG enables diagnosis, follow-up and prognosis of vocal cord palsy as well as indications for surgery. Using the zoom-endoscope of von Stuckrad electromyography of the larynx can be performed under topical anaesthesia. With a specially designed instrument the needle electrode can be transorally applied exactly into the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle and into any other muscle of the larynx. As the patient can follow instructions the voluntary muscle activity can be observed on the monitor and stored on tape during inspiration, exspiration and phonation. Replay and electronic summation are possible.", "PMID": 457465} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12690", "title": "[A comparison of impedance and pure tone audiometry in children (author's transl)].", "content": "The results of conventional pure-tone audiometry and impedance audiometry are compared in 386 pre-school children. The children showing abnormal audiograms were subjected to a repeated examination in the ENT Clinic a few weeks later. It was shown, that all children, whose hearing disorders were confirmed, had already had abnormal impedance measurements during the screening examination. On the other hand, pathological changes of the ears were detected in 5.92% of the children only by the impedance measurements and not by the conventional puretone audiometry. Evaluation of the pressure and the acoustic reflex of the middle ear by impedance audiometry is preferred. It is well recommended in the examination of pre-school children, because the procedure takes little time and is easy to perform.", "contents": "[A comparison of impedance and pure tone audiometry in children (author's transl)]. The results of conventional pure-tone audiometry and impedance audiometry are compared in 386 pre-school children. The children showing abnormal audiograms were subjected to a repeated examination in the ENT Clinic a few weeks later. It was shown, that all children, whose hearing disorders were confirmed, had already had abnormal impedance measurements during the screening examination. On the other hand, pathological changes of the ears were detected in 5.92% of the children only by the impedance measurements and not by the conventional puretone audiometry. Evaluation of the pressure and the acoustic reflex of the middle ear by impedance audiometry is preferred. It is well recommended in the examination of pre-school children, because the procedure takes little time and is easy to perform.", "PMID": 457466} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12691", "title": "Change in psychoanalytic treatment.", "content": "Psychoanalytic treatment aims not simply at removal of symptoms but at basic characterologic improvement. Although change in psychoanalytic treatment is traditionally attributed primarily to insight, the author asserts that insight, although valuable, is not essential to the achievement of such change. Other elements basic to the therapeutic efficacy of all psychoanalytic techniques regardless of their theoretical orientation are discussed. Among additional factors, the implications of warmth and activity on the part of the analyst, and of setting a termination-date, are specifically elaborated on.", "contents": "Change in psychoanalytic treatment. Psychoanalytic treatment aims not simply at removal of symptoms but at basic characterologic improvement. Although change in psychoanalytic treatment is traditionally attributed primarily to insight, the author asserts that insight, although valuable, is not essential to the achievement of such change. Other elements basic to the therapeutic efficacy of all psychoanalytic techniques regardless of their theoretical orientation are discussed. Among additional factors, the implications of warmth and activity on the part of the analyst, and of setting a termination-date, are specifically elaborated on.", "PMID": 457507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12692", "title": "Analyzability and capacity for change in middle life.", "content": "The stimulus for this paper was the analyst's surprise at the capacity for change in a number of middle-aged patients, some of whom would not have been considered good analytic prospects even if young, especially since they had all had extensive, unsuccessful previous psychiatric and psychoanalytic treatment, in two instances with the author herself. Factors of change in what now constitutes \"old age,\" and of analyzability, rigidity, motivation and readiness for change, countertransference factors, and the significance of a late-appearing corrective emotional experience were all considered, along with a brief re-evaluation of what the analytic process really is, and how change comes about.", "contents": "Analyzability and capacity for change in middle life. The stimulus for this paper was the analyst's surprise at the capacity for change in a number of middle-aged patients, some of whom would not have been considered good analytic prospects even if young, especially since they had all had extensive, unsuccessful previous psychiatric and psychoanalytic treatment, in two instances with the author herself. Factors of change in what now constitutes \"old age,\" and of analyzability, rigidity, motivation and readiness for change, countertransference factors, and the significance of a late-appearing corrective emotional experience were all considered, along with a brief re-evaluation of what the analytic process really is, and how change comes about.", "PMID": 457510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12693", "title": "Electromyogram pattern of diaphragmatic fatigue.", "content": "We studied the effect of breathing at various levels of transdiaphragmatic pressure (Pdi) on the EMG power spectrum of the diaphragm. The diaphragmatic EMG was measured simultaneously with a bipolar esophageal electrode (EE) and surface electrode (SE) placed on the ventral portion of the sixth and seventh intercostal spaces in five normal subjects breathing at functional residual capacity (FRC) against an inspiratory resistance. During each fatigue run the subjects generated a Pdi, with each inspiration, that was 25, 50, or 75% of maximum Pdi (Pdimax) for a period up to 15 min. During runs at 50 and 75% of the Pdimax, which are known to produce fatigue, we found for both EE and SE a progressive increase in the amplitude of the low-frequency (L = 20-46.7 Hz) and a decrease in the high-frequency (H = 150-350 Hz) component of the EMG. These changes were not seen at 25% of Pdimax. The diaphragmatic H/L ratio was independent of Pdi when the diaphragm was not fatigued. H/L fell while the diaphragm performed fatiguing work and this was more rapid at higher Pdi's. It was thus concluded that frequency spectrum analysis of the EMG can detect diaphragmatic fatigue reliably, prior to the time when the diaphragm fails as a pressure generator.", "contents": "Electromyogram pattern of diaphragmatic fatigue. We studied the effect of breathing at various levels of transdiaphragmatic pressure (Pdi) on the EMG power spectrum of the diaphragm. The diaphragmatic EMG was measured simultaneously with a bipolar esophageal electrode (EE) and surface electrode (SE) placed on the ventral portion of the sixth and seventh intercostal spaces in five normal subjects breathing at functional residual capacity (FRC) against an inspiratory resistance. During each fatigue run the subjects generated a Pdi, with each inspiration, that was 25, 50, or 75% of maximum Pdi (Pdimax) for a period up to 15 min. During runs at 50 and 75% of the Pdimax, which are known to produce fatigue, we found for both EE and SE a progressive increase in the amplitude of the low-frequency (L = 20-46.7 Hz) and a decrease in the high-frequency (H = 150-350 Hz) component of the EMG. These changes were not seen at 25% of Pdimax. The diaphragmatic H/L ratio was independent of Pdi when the diaphragm was not fatigued. H/L fell while the diaphragm performed fatiguing work and this was more rapid at higher Pdi's. It was thus concluded that frequency spectrum analysis of the EMG can detect diaphragmatic fatigue reliably, prior to the time when the diaphragm fails as a pressure generator.", "PMID": 457515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12694", "title": "DLO2 in excised lungs perfused with blood containing sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4).", "content": "If the excised lung is perfused with blood containing the chemical sodium dithionite (DDT), the PO2 of pulmonary capillary blood is everywhere zero and the membrane diffusing capacity for O2 (DmO2) can be measured by a standard rebreathing technique. The reaction rate of DDT with O2 is not rate limiting in the DmO2. In 15--25 kg dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (30 mg/kg, iv), left lower lobe was excised, suspended horizontally and perfused with autologous blood at 25--27 degrees C. DDT was added to the blood and the rebreathing alveolar disappearance curves for O2 were measured. The DmO2 ranged from 6 to 43 (ml/min.Torr, STPD) at lung volumes of 240--780 ml (FRC at 6 cmH2O end-expiratory pressure). Lung weight, pulmonary artery pressure, and the DmO2 were stable in the presence of DDT. Histopathology indicates that dithionite in the concentrations used does not harm the lung. Effects of inequalities in the distributions of ventilation, volume, and diffusing capacity were examined in a two-compartment model and compared with the experimental findings.", "contents": "DLO2 in excised lungs perfused with blood containing sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4). If the excised lung is perfused with blood containing the chemical sodium dithionite (DDT), the PO2 of pulmonary capillary blood is everywhere zero and the membrane diffusing capacity for O2 (DmO2) can be measured by a standard rebreathing technique. The reaction rate of DDT with O2 is not rate limiting in the DmO2. In 15--25 kg dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (30 mg/kg, iv), left lower lobe was excised, suspended horizontally and perfused with autologous blood at 25--27 degrees C. DDT was added to the blood and the rebreathing alveolar disappearance curves for O2 were measured. The DmO2 ranged from 6 to 43 (ml/min.Torr, STPD) at lung volumes of 240--780 ml (FRC at 6 cmH2O end-expiratory pressure). Lung weight, pulmonary artery pressure, and the DmO2 were stable in the presence of DDT. Histopathology indicates that dithionite in the concentrations used does not harm the lung. Effects of inequalities in the distributions of ventilation, volume, and diffusing capacity were examined in a two-compartment model and compared with the experimental findings.", "PMID": 457516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12695", "title": "Interaction between sodium and chloride transport in canine tracheal mucosa.", "content": "Canine tracheal mucosae were dissected and mounted as flat sheets in Ussing chambers. Unidirectional isotope fluxes of 22Na and 36Cl were performed across paired mucosae from the same animal. The average spontaneous potential difference was 42 + 1.2 mV (mean +/- SE) lumen negative. The short-circuit current (SCC) 3.09 +/- 0.36 mueq/cm2.h was accounted for by a net Cl secretion of 2.46 +/- 0.26 mueq/cm2.h toward the mucosa and net Na absorption of 0.46 +/- 0.13 mueq/cm2.h toward submucosa. Removal of Cl depressed SCC but had no effect on unidirectional or net Na transport (n = 7). By contrast, removal of Na (n = 6) or the addition of ouabain (n = 7) abolished net Cl secretion and greatly reduced SCC. Theophylline (n = 6) added to the submucosal bath no significant effect on Na transport but stimulated SCC and Cl secretion, suggesting hormonal regulation of Cl transport. The results suggest that the active transport of Na and Cl in this epithelium occur by electrically conductive pathways, i.e., the transport is \"electrogenic.\" Further it appears that Na transport is independent of the presence of Cl but that Cl transport depends on some parameter of active Na transport.", "contents": "Interaction between sodium and chloride transport in canine tracheal mucosa. Canine tracheal mucosae were dissected and mounted as flat sheets in Ussing chambers. Unidirectional isotope fluxes of 22Na and 36Cl were performed across paired mucosae from the same animal. The average spontaneous potential difference was 42 + 1.2 mV (mean +/- SE) lumen negative. The short-circuit current (SCC) 3.09 +/- 0.36 mueq/cm2.h was accounted for by a net Cl secretion of 2.46 +/- 0.26 mueq/cm2.h toward the mucosa and net Na absorption of 0.46 +/- 0.13 mueq/cm2.h toward submucosa. Removal of Cl depressed SCC but had no effect on unidirectional or net Na transport (n = 7). By contrast, removal of Na (n = 6) or the addition of ouabain (n = 7) abolished net Cl secretion and greatly reduced SCC. Theophylline (n = 6) added to the submucosal bath no significant effect on Na transport but stimulated SCC and Cl secretion, suggesting hormonal regulation of Cl transport. The results suggest that the active transport of Na and Cl in this epithelium occur by electrically conductive pathways, i.e., the transport is \"electrogenic.\" Further it appears that Na transport is independent of the presence of Cl but that Cl transport depends on some parameter of active Na transport.", "PMID": 457517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12696", "title": "Sensitization of tolerant mice to cold with a serum factor induced by endotoxin.", "content": "Endotoxin-tolerant mice are sensitized to cold (5 degrees C) stress by an injection of 0.4 ml serum collected from zymosan-pretreated mice 2 h after an intravenous (iv) injection of 25 microgram endotoxin. Deaths begin after 6 h and most animals die by 10 h, The factor in serum believed to be responsible for this effect is called glucocorticoid antagonizing factor (GAF). Tolerant mice given 10 microgram endotoxin live for 10 h and two-thirds survive for 24 h. Serum from endotoxin-poisoned conventional mice reduces survival time significantly but not as dramatically as that from zymosan-primed mice. The latter serum, but not endotoxin, causes a rapid drop in the core temperature of tolerant mice housed at 5 degrees C and inhibits the endogenous induction of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) (EC 4.1.1.32) in tolerant mice exposed for 4--5 h to the cold. An injection of 25 microgram endotoxin does not have this effect on the enzyme. Serum that produces these responses also sensitizes mice to endotoxin lethality and blocks the protection normally afforded against endotoxin by adrenocorticoids.", "contents": "Sensitization of tolerant mice to cold with a serum factor induced by endotoxin. Endotoxin-tolerant mice are sensitized to cold (5 degrees C) stress by an injection of 0.4 ml serum collected from zymosan-pretreated mice 2 h after an intravenous (iv) injection of 25 microgram endotoxin. Deaths begin after 6 h and most animals die by 10 h, The factor in serum believed to be responsible for this effect is called glucocorticoid antagonizing factor (GAF). Tolerant mice given 10 microgram endotoxin live for 10 h and two-thirds survive for 24 h. Serum from endotoxin-poisoned conventional mice reduces survival time significantly but not as dramatically as that from zymosan-primed mice. The latter serum, but not endotoxin, causes a rapid drop in the core temperature of tolerant mice housed at 5 degrees C and inhibits the endogenous induction of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) (EC 4.1.1.32) in tolerant mice exposed for 4--5 h to the cold. An injection of 25 microgram endotoxin does not have this effect on the enzyme. Serum that produces these responses also sensitizes mice to endotoxin lethality and blocks the protection normally afforded against endotoxin by adrenocorticoids.", "PMID": 457518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12697", "title": "Effect of exercise on postoperative nitrogen balance.", "content": "This study was designed to investigate whether exercise, when used as an adjunct to parenteral nutrition, has any influence on postoperative muscle catabolism, amino acid metabolism, and nitrogen balance. Twenty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups of exercised and nonexercised animals. All animals underwent laparotomy and jugular vein cannulation, were placed in metabolic cages, and were infused with a dextrose-protein solution at 15 kcal and 0.56 g amino acids/100 g body wt per 24 h for a total of 96 h. The exercised animals were run on a treadmill for 15 min/day for a total of 3 days. There was no difference in nitrogen balance and body weight change between exercised and nonexercised animals, as well as no difference between animals who experienced different degrees of exercise. Total and individual plasma amino acids in the exercised group were 15% lower than in the nonexercised group; the total and individual free amino acids in muscle of the exercised group were 66% higher than in the nonexercised group. This pattern of high levels of amino acids in the muscle, coupled with decreased plasma concentrations, is suggestive of increased amino acid turnover in the muscle of the exercised animals. We suggest that, in the postoperative or postinjury period, exercise has a stimulating effect on amino acid turnover in the skeletal muscle resulting from 1) amino acid (mainly the branched-chain amino acids) consumption for energg metabolism and gluconeogenesis, and 2) protein synthesis. The net balance of both results in nitrogen equilibrium similar to that of a nonexercised control group.", "contents": "Effect of exercise on postoperative nitrogen balance. This study was designed to investigate whether exercise, when used as an adjunct to parenteral nutrition, has any influence on postoperative muscle catabolism, amino acid metabolism, and nitrogen balance. Twenty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups of exercised and nonexercised animals. All animals underwent laparotomy and jugular vein cannulation, were placed in metabolic cages, and were infused with a dextrose-protein solution at 15 kcal and 0.56 g amino acids/100 g body wt per 24 h for a total of 96 h. The exercised animals were run on a treadmill for 15 min/day for a total of 3 days. There was no difference in nitrogen balance and body weight change between exercised and nonexercised animals, as well as no difference between animals who experienced different degrees of exercise. Total and individual plasma amino acids in the exercised group were 15% lower than in the nonexercised group; the total and individual free amino acids in muscle of the exercised group were 66% higher than in the nonexercised group. This pattern of high levels of amino acids in the muscle, coupled with decreased plasma concentrations, is suggestive of increased amino acid turnover in the muscle of the exercised animals. We suggest that, in the postoperative or postinjury period, exercise has a stimulating effect on amino acid turnover in the skeletal muscle resulting from 1) amino acid (mainly the branched-chain amino acids) consumption for energg metabolism and gluconeogenesis, and 2) protein synthesis. The net balance of both results in nitrogen equilibrium similar to that of a nonexercised control group.", "PMID": 457519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12698", "title": "Spectral analysis of human inspiratory diaphragmatic electromyograms.", "content": "The inspiratory diaphragmatic EMG was recorded via esophageal electrodes in six normal subjects. The EMG and ECG signals were analyzed by power density spectral analysis, before and after band-pass filtering (20--1,600 Hz). The EMG spectrum was concentrated in the bandwidth 25--250 Hz. Electrode motion introduced a significant artifact only at low frequencies. The ECG spectrum was also concentrated at lower frequencies, but substantial power from the cardiac signal spilled over across most of the EMG spectrum. Band-pass filtering was therefore effective in minimizing the former but not the latter. Of the various power and frequency parameters used to quantitate the EMG spectrum, the most stable was the centroid frequency. This was reproducible within and between subjects, and was not affected by changing tidal volume or inspiratory flow rate.", "contents": "Spectral analysis of human inspiratory diaphragmatic electromyograms. The inspiratory diaphragmatic EMG was recorded via esophageal electrodes in six normal subjects. The EMG and ECG signals were analyzed by power density spectral analysis, before and after band-pass filtering (20--1,600 Hz). The EMG spectrum was concentrated in the bandwidth 25--250 Hz. Electrode motion introduced a significant artifact only at low frequencies. The ECG spectrum was also concentrated at lower frequencies, but substantial power from the cardiac signal spilled over across most of the EMG spectrum. Band-pass filtering was therefore effective in minimizing the former but not the latter. Of the various power and frequency parameters used to quantitate the EMG spectrum, the most stable was the centroid frequency. This was reproducible within and between subjects, and was not affected by changing tidal volume or inspiratory flow rate.", "PMID": 457520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12699", "title": "Pregnancy-induced pulmonary hypertension in cows susceptible to high mountain disease.", "content": "Observations in several species suggest that pulmonary vascular reactivity may be reduced during pregnancy. We tested this hypothesis in two groups of unanesthetized cows, one \"susceptible\" and one \"resistant\" to high mountain or brisket disease. At the altitude of residence (1,524 m), mean pulmonary arterial pressure was elevated during pregnancy by 18% and total pulmonary vascular resistance by 32% in susceptible but not in resistant cows. During acute exposure to simulated altitudes of 2,120--4,550 m, pulmonary arterial pressure was increased by 16% and total pulmonary resistance by 28% during pregnancy in susceptible cows. The pulmonary pressor response to a 5 microgram/kg bolus of prostaglandin FIalpha was not different during pregnancy in either group. Resistant cows hyperventilated while pregnant, raising arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) by 6 Torr both at 1,524 m and, on the average, by 7 Torr at altitudes of 2,120--4,550 m. Susceptible cows increased their PaO2 less than did the resistant cows during pregnancy. The results indicated that pregnancy was associated with a greater rise in pulmonary arterial pressure and total pulmonary vascular resistance during acute hypoxia and failed to elicit as great a ventilatory response in susceptible than in resistant cows.", "contents": "Pregnancy-induced pulmonary hypertension in cows susceptible to high mountain disease. Observations in several species suggest that pulmonary vascular reactivity may be reduced during pregnancy. We tested this hypothesis in two groups of unanesthetized cows, one \"susceptible\" and one \"resistant\" to high mountain or brisket disease. At the altitude of residence (1,524 m), mean pulmonary arterial pressure was elevated during pregnancy by 18% and total pulmonary vascular resistance by 32% in susceptible but not in resistant cows. During acute exposure to simulated altitudes of 2,120--4,550 m, pulmonary arterial pressure was increased by 16% and total pulmonary resistance by 28% during pregnancy in susceptible cows. The pulmonary pressor response to a 5 microgram/kg bolus of prostaglandin FIalpha was not different during pregnancy in either group. Resistant cows hyperventilated while pregnant, raising arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) by 6 Torr both at 1,524 m and, on the average, by 7 Torr at altitudes of 2,120--4,550 m. Susceptible cows increased their PaO2 less than did the resistant cows during pregnancy. The results indicated that pregnancy was associated with a greater rise in pulmonary arterial pressure and total pulmonary vascular resistance during acute hypoxia and failed to elicit as great a ventilatory response in susceptible than in resistant cows.", "PMID": 457521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12700", "title": "Airway reactivity to nitrates in normal and mild asthmatic subjects.", "content": "Epidemiologic studies have reported increased symptoms in young asthmatics when atmospheric pollutants containing nitrates and sulfates are elevated. To determine if inorganic nitrate pollutants cause increased airway reactivity in humans, 10 normal volunteers and 11 mild asthmatics inhaled a sodium nitrate (NaNO3) aerosol with an aerodynamic diameter of 0.46 micron at a concentration of 7,000 microgram/m3, a level 100--1,000 times greater than reported urban levels for nitrates. A sodium chloride (NaCl) aerosol of similar characteristics served as a control. By double-blind randomization, each subject breathed NaCl or NaNO3 for a 16-min period and again 2--4 h later. Deposition studies showed 32--78% retention of the inhaled aerosol. Functional residual capacity, airway resistance, forced vital capacity, 1-s forced expiratory volume, and maximum and partial expiratory flow rates at 60 and 40% of total lung capacity did not significantly change during or after exposure. All subjects remained asymptomatic. To establish if aerosol exposure increased reactivity to a known bronchoconstrictor, subjects inhaled 0.025--1.0% carbachol following the 16-min exposure. Although prior inhalation of NaNO3 or NaCl aerosols did not significantly alter the effect of carbachol on pulmonary function, two asthmatics demonstrated mild potentiation of the carbachol bronchoconstrictor response after nitrate exposure. These results suggest that in normal subjects and mild asthmatics short-term NaNO3 exposure does not alter pulmonary function.", "contents": "Airway reactivity to nitrates in normal and mild asthmatic subjects. Epidemiologic studies have reported increased symptoms in young asthmatics when atmospheric pollutants containing nitrates and sulfates are elevated. To determine if inorganic nitrate pollutants cause increased airway reactivity in humans, 10 normal volunteers and 11 mild asthmatics inhaled a sodium nitrate (NaNO3) aerosol with an aerodynamic diameter of 0.46 micron at a concentration of 7,000 microgram/m3, a level 100--1,000 times greater than reported urban levels for nitrates. A sodium chloride (NaCl) aerosol of similar characteristics served as a control. By double-blind randomization, each subject breathed NaCl or NaNO3 for a 16-min period and again 2--4 h later. Deposition studies showed 32--78% retention of the inhaled aerosol. Functional residual capacity, airway resistance, forced vital capacity, 1-s forced expiratory volume, and maximum and partial expiratory flow rates at 60 and 40% of total lung capacity did not significantly change during or after exposure. All subjects remained asymptomatic. To establish if aerosol exposure increased reactivity to a known bronchoconstrictor, subjects inhaled 0.025--1.0% carbachol following the 16-min exposure. Although prior inhalation of NaNO3 or NaCl aerosols did not significantly alter the effect of carbachol on pulmonary function, two asthmatics demonstrated mild potentiation of the carbachol bronchoconstrictor response after nitrate exposure. These results suggest that in normal subjects and mild asthmatics short-term NaNO3 exposure does not alter pulmonary function.", "PMID": 457522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12701", "title": "Chronic response of rat brain norepinephrine and serotonin levels to endurance training.", "content": "Norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT) concentrations were determined in three areas of the rat brain following 8 wk exposure to differing physical activity and dietary regimens. Animals were divided into sedentary and exercise groups, and one-half of each received either a normal or atherogenic diet. The exercise consisted of 30 min of treadmill running, 5 days/wk, for 8 wk. Brains were weighed and sectioned into cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and remainder (midbrain), and fluorometrically analyzed for NE and 5-HT content. In most brain areas, NE and 5-HT levels were significantly greater among exercise-normal diet and exercise-fat diet compared to both sedentary groups. In the cerebral cortex, exercise-normal diet rats possessed higher levels of NE and lower concentrations of 5-HT than sedentary animals. The atherogenic diet did not affect amine levels other than 5-HT in the cortex among exercise rats. The NE results are consistent with prior research indicating its control of sympathetic function. Increased levels of 5-HT in the midbrain may be the neurotransmittal adaptation responsible for decreased appetite and enhanced weight loss following chronic endurance exercise.", "contents": "Chronic response of rat brain norepinephrine and serotonin levels to endurance training. Norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT) concentrations were determined in three areas of the rat brain following 8 wk exposure to differing physical activity and dietary regimens. Animals were divided into sedentary and exercise groups, and one-half of each received either a normal or atherogenic diet. The exercise consisted of 30 min of treadmill running, 5 days/wk, for 8 wk. Brains were weighed and sectioned into cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and remainder (midbrain), and fluorometrically analyzed for NE and 5-HT content. In most brain areas, NE and 5-HT levels were significantly greater among exercise-normal diet and exercise-fat diet compared to both sedentary groups. In the cerebral cortex, exercise-normal diet rats possessed higher levels of NE and lower concentrations of 5-HT than sedentary animals. The atherogenic diet did not affect amine levels other than 5-HT in the cortex among exercise rats. The NE results are consistent with prior research indicating its control of sympathetic function. Increased levels of 5-HT in the midbrain may be the neurotransmittal adaptation responsible for decreased appetite and enhanced weight loss following chronic endurance exercise.", "PMID": 457523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12702", "title": "A technique for multiple, high-rate blood samplings via an external cannula in rats.", "content": "A method for obtaining multiple, high-rate blood sample collections from rats without the use of anesthesia and anticoagulant is described. The surgical procedure consists of a bypass of the carotid via a cannula; this cannula forms a loop above the rat's head and is available for blood sampling. The method permits the investigation of high-frequency oscillations in blood components of rat.", "contents": "A technique for multiple, high-rate blood samplings via an external cannula in rats. A method for obtaining multiple, high-rate blood sample collections from rats without the use of anesthesia and anticoagulant is described. The surgical procedure consists of a bypass of the carotid via a cannula; this cannula forms a loop above the rat's head and is available for blood sampling. The method permits the investigation of high-frequency oscillations in blood components of rat.", "PMID": 457524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12703", "title": "Airway closure and closing volume.", "content": "Using boluses of radioactive Xe we compared regional N2O uptake with regional perfusion distribution during open glottis breath hold in five seated men. Measurements were made near residual volume, at closing volume (CV), above CV and when possible, between CV and residual volume (RV). At low lung volumes basal N2O uptake was small whereas basal blood flow was not. This discrepancy was interpreted as evidence of airway closure and was quantitated. All subjects showed extensive basal closure near RV. At closing volume four of five subjects demonstrated closure and some closure was evident in these subjects at volumes in excess of CV. The increase in airway closure with decreasing lung volume was much greater below CV than above it. Conventional CV tracings were obtained using helium boluses; the height of phase IV was positively correlated with the change in airway closure between CV and RV as assessed by the N2O technique. The slope of phase III did not correlate with the amount of airway closure measured at CV. We concluded that the conventionally measured CV is not the volume at which airway closure begins but that the onset of phase IV reflects an increase in basal airway closure and the height of phase IV reflects the amount of basal closure between CV and RV.", "contents": "Airway closure and closing volume. Using boluses of radioactive Xe we compared regional N2O uptake with regional perfusion distribution during open glottis breath hold in five seated men. Measurements were made near residual volume, at closing volume (CV), above CV and when possible, between CV and residual volume (RV). At low lung volumes basal N2O uptake was small whereas basal blood flow was not. This discrepancy was interpreted as evidence of airway closure and was quantitated. All subjects showed extensive basal closure near RV. At closing volume four of five subjects demonstrated closure and some closure was evident in these subjects at volumes in excess of CV. The increase in airway closure with decreasing lung volume was much greater below CV than above it. Conventional CV tracings were obtained using helium boluses; the height of phase IV was positively correlated with the change in airway closure between CV and RV as assessed by the N2O technique. The slope of phase III did not correlate with the amount of airway closure measured at CV. We concluded that the conventionally measured CV is not the volume at which airway closure begins but that the onset of phase IV reflects an increase in basal airway closure and the height of phase IV reflects the amount of basal closure between CV and RV.", "PMID": 457525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12704", "title": "Unilateral pulmonary edema in rabbits after reexpansion of collapsed lung.", "content": "The effects of the mode of reinflation and of the duration of prior collapse on the development of unilateral pulmonary edema following reexpansion of collapsed lung were studied in a rabbit model simulating the human syndrome of \"reexpansion pulmonary edema.\" The right lungs of rabbits were maintained in an atelectatic state for 0.5 h to 8 days, by injection of air into the pleural space. Reexpansion was achieved in 2 h by application of positive pressure to the airway while a chest tube was connected to underwater seal, or by application of negative pressure (-20 to -100 Torr) to a screened window in the partietal pleura. The lung surface pressures we actually applied by the two methods are not known. Animals were then killed and pulmonary edema was determined by wet-to-dry weight ratios. The incidence of unilateral pulmonary edema increased as the duration of prior collapse was increased (85% after 7--8 days; 17% after 3 days; and 0% after 0,5 h) when reinflated with -100 Torr applied to the pleural window. Although the incidence was less, it also occurred following the use of pleural window pressure less negative than -100 Torr, and after reinflation by positive airway pressure.", "contents": "Unilateral pulmonary edema in rabbits after reexpansion of collapsed lung. The effects of the mode of reinflation and of the duration of prior collapse on the development of unilateral pulmonary edema following reexpansion of collapsed lung were studied in a rabbit model simulating the human syndrome of \"reexpansion pulmonary edema.\" The right lungs of rabbits were maintained in an atelectatic state for 0.5 h to 8 days, by injection of air into the pleural space. Reexpansion was achieved in 2 h by application of positive pressure to the airway while a chest tube was connected to underwater seal, or by application of negative pressure (-20 to -100 Torr) to a screened window in the partietal pleura. The lung surface pressures we actually applied by the two methods are not known. Animals were then killed and pulmonary edema was determined by wet-to-dry weight ratios. The incidence of unilateral pulmonary edema increased as the duration of prior collapse was increased (85% after 7--8 days; 17% after 3 days; and 0% after 0,5 h) when reinflated with -100 Torr applied to the pleural window. Although the incidence was less, it also occurred following the use of pleural window pressure less negative than -100 Torr, and after reinflation by positive airway pressure.", "PMID": 457526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12705", "title": "Effects of sitting up on pulmonary blood pressure, flow, and volume in man.", "content": "Pulmonary vascular pressure, blood flow, and blood volume were measured in the supine and sitting positions in eight subjects with localized lung carcinoma associated with moderate airway obstruction. Supine cardiac output, pulmonary wedge (Ppw) and artery (Ppa) pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were normal. Circulatory changes in sitting position were also normal: heart rate increased 13 +/- 9% (mean +/- SD); stroke volume fell 21 +/- 15%; cardiac output fell 13 +/- 19%; and arteriovenous O2 difference increased 37 +/- 21%. Neither the difference between mean Ppa and mean Ppw nor the rise of PVR from 92 +/- 25 to 122 +/- 49 dyn.s.cm-5 in sitting position were significant. Pulmonary blood volume (PBV) as measured by a dye-bolus-injection technique fell from 517 +/- 122 ml supine to 360 +/- 43 ml sitting (P less than 0.01). This decrease is best explained by closure of alveolar vessels in the upper part of the lung and by the concomitant cessation of flow in corresponding extra-alveolar vessels, which would prevent distribution of dye in the region. Circumstantial evidence suggests the latter vessels remain open under the large expanding stresses that prevail in the upper lung.", "contents": "Effects of sitting up on pulmonary blood pressure, flow, and volume in man. Pulmonary vascular pressure, blood flow, and blood volume were measured in the supine and sitting positions in eight subjects with localized lung carcinoma associated with moderate airway obstruction. Supine cardiac output, pulmonary wedge (Ppw) and artery (Ppa) pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were normal. Circulatory changes in sitting position were also normal: heart rate increased 13 +/- 9% (mean +/- SD); stroke volume fell 21 +/- 15%; cardiac output fell 13 +/- 19%; and arteriovenous O2 difference increased 37 +/- 21%. Neither the difference between mean Ppa and mean Ppw nor the rise of PVR from 92 +/- 25 to 122 +/- 49 dyn.s.cm-5 in sitting position were significant. Pulmonary blood volume (PBV) as measured by a dye-bolus-injection technique fell from 517 +/- 122 ml supine to 360 +/- 43 ml sitting (P less than 0.01). This decrease is best explained by closure of alveolar vessels in the upper part of the lung and by the concomitant cessation of flow in corresponding extra-alveolar vessels, which would prevent distribution of dye in the region. Circumstantial evidence suggests the latter vessels remain open under the large expanding stresses that prevail in the upper lung.", "PMID": 457527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12706", "title": "Accentuated hypoxemia at high altitude in subjects susceptible to high-altitude pulmonary edema.", "content": "To investigate the hypotheses that activated coagulation, catecholamine release, or arginine vasopressin release are involved in the pathogenesis of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), we measured these variables in seven subjects susceptible to HAPE and in nine control subjects at an altitude of 1,600 m, and after 6 and 12 h at a simulated altitude of 4,150 m. Each subject was studied twice, once after 3 days of placebo medication and once after 3 days of premedication with aspirin and dipyridamole. At high altitude, HAPE-susceptible subjects showed significantly exaggerated hypoxemia and a slightly higher end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure that did not account fully for the hypoxemia. Fibrinolytic activity was significantly accelerated in both groups at high altitude, whereas other coagulation measurements, catecholamines and arginine vasopressin levels, and pulmonary function tests were not significantly changed. Similar findings were obtained after both placebo and platelet-inhibitor premedication. The results indicate that none of the three hypothesized mechanisms, i.e., activated coagulation, excessive catecholamine release, or antidiuresis, would account for HAPE susceptibility. Instead, HAPE-susceptible subjects exhibited exaggerated hypoxemia associated with relative hypoventilation and a widened alveolar-arterial gas pressure difference.", "contents": "Accentuated hypoxemia at high altitude in subjects susceptible to high-altitude pulmonary edema. To investigate the hypotheses that activated coagulation, catecholamine release, or arginine vasopressin release are involved in the pathogenesis of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), we measured these variables in seven subjects susceptible to HAPE and in nine control subjects at an altitude of 1,600 m, and after 6 and 12 h at a simulated altitude of 4,150 m. Each subject was studied twice, once after 3 days of placebo medication and once after 3 days of premedication with aspirin and dipyridamole. At high altitude, HAPE-susceptible subjects showed significantly exaggerated hypoxemia and a slightly higher end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure that did not account fully for the hypoxemia. Fibrinolytic activity was significantly accelerated in both groups at high altitude, whereas other coagulation measurements, catecholamines and arginine vasopressin levels, and pulmonary function tests were not significantly changed. Similar findings were obtained after both placebo and platelet-inhibitor premedication. The results indicate that none of the three hypothesized mechanisms, i.e., activated coagulation, excessive catecholamine release, or antidiuresis, would account for HAPE susceptibility. Instead, HAPE-susceptible subjects exhibited exaggerated hypoxemia associated with relative hypoventilation and a widened alveolar-arterial gas pressure difference.", "PMID": 457528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12707", "title": "Estimating a distribution's central moments: a specific tidal ventilation application.", "content": "A method is presented for extracting central moments of a distribution from data generated by the distribution over a known kernel. It is applied to the problem of the specific tidal ventilation in the lung in the multiple-breath N2-washout setting, and we found that in estimating the mean and variance, the method accurately recovers from test data those values characteristic of a test distribution. Some preliminary results on normal subjects are shown.", "contents": "Estimating a distribution's central moments: a specific tidal ventilation application. A method is presented for extracting central moments of a distribution from data generated by the distribution over a known kernel. It is applied to the problem of the specific tidal ventilation in the lung in the multiple-breath N2-washout setting, and we found that in estimating the mean and variance, the method accurately recovers from test data those values characteristic of a test distribution. Some preliminary results on normal subjects are shown.", "PMID": 457529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12708", "title": "Oxygen tensions measured in cat cerebral cortex under hyperbaric conditions.", "content": "Pyrenebutyric acid (PBA), the intracellular fluorescent indicator, was used to measure the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) in the exposed cerebral cortex of anesthetized cats at hyperbaric pressures up to 4 ATA. The validity of the PBA method for determining cortical PO2 was confirmed by demonstrating a precise linear relationship between Pao2 and the reciprocal of the fluorescence of PBA in the brain as the cat was ventilated with sequentially greater oxygen pressures while holding the Paco2 nearly constant. Increments in the Paco2 while the Pao2 was maintained at a high (about 2,000 Torr) level resulted in stepwise greater oxygen tensions in the brain until an oxygenation end point was reached with a Paco2 averaging near 122 Torr. Greater amounts of CO2 did not bring the mean PO2 of the brain, 1,017 Torr, closer to 2,000 Torr. During normocapnia the cortical PO2 was greater than the PO2 of cerebral venous blood collected from the superior sagittal sinus; however, in hypercapnia (PaCO greater than 45 Torr), the PO2 of the sinus blood exceeded the value determined in the cortex. This latter observation is taken as evidence for convective shunting of cerebral arterial blood to venous circulation when hypercapnia is present.", "contents": "Oxygen tensions measured in cat cerebral cortex under hyperbaric conditions. Pyrenebutyric acid (PBA), the intracellular fluorescent indicator, was used to measure the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) in the exposed cerebral cortex of anesthetized cats at hyperbaric pressures up to 4 ATA. The validity of the PBA method for determining cortical PO2 was confirmed by demonstrating a precise linear relationship between Pao2 and the reciprocal of the fluorescence of PBA in the brain as the cat was ventilated with sequentially greater oxygen pressures while holding the Paco2 nearly constant. Increments in the Paco2 while the Pao2 was maintained at a high (about 2,000 Torr) level resulted in stepwise greater oxygen tensions in the brain until an oxygenation end point was reached with a Paco2 averaging near 122 Torr. Greater amounts of CO2 did not bring the mean PO2 of the brain, 1,017 Torr, closer to 2,000 Torr. During normocapnia the cortical PO2 was greater than the PO2 of cerebral venous blood collected from the superior sagittal sinus; however, in hypercapnia (PaCO greater than 45 Torr), the PO2 of the sinus blood exceeded the value determined in the cortex. This latter observation is taken as evidence for convective shunting of cerebral arterial blood to venous circulation when hypercapnia is present.", "PMID": 457530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12709", "title": "Forced oscillatory respiratory parameters following papain exposure in dogs.", "content": "Respiratory mechanics were studied in nine intubated dogs before and after exposure to aerosolized papain under conditions known to produce emphysemalike lesions. Forced oscillatory resistance (RFO), compliance (CFO), and inertance (IFO) were computed from impedance data obtained at transrespiratory pressures of -10, 0 (FRC), +10, and +20 cmHWO. Dynamic compliance during tidal breathing (CTB) was also measured at FRC. After papain exposure CTB and CFO increased by 25% (P less than 0.05) at FRC and at +10 cmH2O. There were no consistent changes in RFO or IFO at FRC. However, RFO showed a greater dependency on transrespiratory pressure, which suggests that the elastic properties of airways may also have been affected by papain. Measurements made in open-chested papain-exposed animals showed that about 17% of total RFO and 20% of total elastance were attributable to the chest wall. Forced oscillatory impedance data are sensitive to experimental changes in lung mechanics and provide useful estimates of standard respiratory parameters.", "contents": "Forced oscillatory respiratory parameters following papain exposure in dogs. Respiratory mechanics were studied in nine intubated dogs before and after exposure to aerosolized papain under conditions known to produce emphysemalike lesions. Forced oscillatory resistance (RFO), compliance (CFO), and inertance (IFO) were computed from impedance data obtained at transrespiratory pressures of -10, 0 (FRC), +10, and +20 cmHWO. Dynamic compliance during tidal breathing (CTB) was also measured at FRC. After papain exposure CTB and CFO increased by 25% (P less than 0.05) at FRC and at +10 cmH2O. There were no consistent changes in RFO or IFO at FRC. However, RFO showed a greater dependency on transrespiratory pressure, which suggests that the elastic properties of airways may also have been affected by papain. Measurements made in open-chested papain-exposed animals showed that about 17% of total RFO and 20% of total elastance were attributable to the chest wall. Forced oscillatory impedance data are sensitive to experimental changes in lung mechanics and provide useful estimates of standard respiratory parameters.", "PMID": 457531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12710", "title": "Effects of lung volume on collateral and airways resistance in man.", "content": "The effects of changing lung volume (VL) on collateral resistance (Rcoll) and total airways resistance (Raw) were compared in six young volunteers. At functional residual capacity (FRC) = 55% total lung capacity (TLC), mean Rcoll was 4,664 +/- 1,518 (SE) cmH2O/(l/s) and mean Raw was 1.57 +/- 0.11 (SE) cmH2O/l/s). When VL increased to 80% TLC, Rcoll decreased by 63.3 +/- 7.8%, and Raw decreased by 50.3 +/- 4.2 (SE) %. The decrease in Rcoll with increasing lung volume was not statistically different from that of Raw (P less than 0.05). If the airways obstructed for measurements of Rcoll served between 2 and 5% of the lungs, then Rcoll was approximately 50 times as great as the resistance to flow through airways serving the same volume of lung at FRC. The relationship did not change significantly when VL increased by 25% TLC. If changes in Raw reflect changes in airways supplying sublobar portions of lung, these results indicate that there is no tendency for the redistribution of ventilation through airways and collateral pathways with changes in VL in young subjects.", "contents": "Effects of lung volume on collateral and airways resistance in man. The effects of changing lung volume (VL) on collateral resistance (Rcoll) and total airways resistance (Raw) were compared in six young volunteers. At functional residual capacity (FRC) = 55% total lung capacity (TLC), mean Rcoll was 4,664 +/- 1,518 (SE) cmH2O/(l/s) and mean Raw was 1.57 +/- 0.11 (SE) cmH2O/l/s). When VL increased to 80% TLC, Rcoll decreased by 63.3 +/- 7.8%, and Raw decreased by 50.3 +/- 4.2 (SE) %. The decrease in Rcoll with increasing lung volume was not statistically different from that of Raw (P less than 0.05). If the airways obstructed for measurements of Rcoll served between 2 and 5% of the lungs, then Rcoll was approximately 50 times as great as the resistance to flow through airways serving the same volume of lung at FRC. The relationship did not change significantly when VL increased by 25% TLC. If changes in Raw reflect changes in airways supplying sublobar portions of lung, these results indicate that there is no tendency for the redistribution of ventilation through airways and collateral pathways with changes in VL in young subjects.", "PMID": 457532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12711", "title": "Vascular and extravascular compartments of the isolated perfused rabbit lung.", "content": "The vascular, interstitial, and cellular compartments of 15 isolated, perfused and ventilated rabbit lungs determined by a steady-state indicator-dilution procedure. Five lungs were perfused with constant pulmonary artery flow and zero left atrial pressure for more than 1 h. Edema formation was continuous and pulmonary vascular volume (PVV) decreased initially at a time when pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was falling. Increases in PVR were not seen until edema formation had become severe. In 10 other lungs, increases in pulmonary artery or left atrial pressure resulted in elevation of PVV and accelerated edema formation. The initially abrupt increase in PVV was followed by a more gradual increase over a 10-min period. Return of fluid to the vasculature was never observed in these studies. Labeled albumin readily entered the extravascular space but a relatively constant fraction of the interstitium remained inaccessible to albumin. No changes were found in the cellular volume during edema formation.", "contents": "Vascular and extravascular compartments of the isolated perfused rabbit lung. The vascular, interstitial, and cellular compartments of 15 isolated, perfused and ventilated rabbit lungs determined by a steady-state indicator-dilution procedure. Five lungs were perfused with constant pulmonary artery flow and zero left atrial pressure for more than 1 h. Edema formation was continuous and pulmonary vascular volume (PVV) decreased initially at a time when pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was falling. Increases in PVR were not seen until edema formation had become severe. In 10 other lungs, increases in pulmonary artery or left atrial pressure resulted in elevation of PVV and accelerated edema formation. The initially abrupt increase in PVV was followed by a more gradual increase over a 10-min period. Return of fluid to the vasculature was never observed in these studies. Labeled albumin readily entered the extravascular space but a relatively constant fraction of the interstitium remained inaccessible to albumin. No changes were found in the cellular volume during edema formation.", "PMID": 457533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12712", "title": "A new definition of mechanical work done in human movement.", "content": "The definition of efficiency of human movement has often been unable to cope with activities such as level gait because the numerator of the efficiency equation includes only external work done by the body on an external load. The major purpose of this paper is to propose a definition that not only accounts for any external work but also the internal work done by the limbs themselves. The internal work involves a new biomechanical analysis that takes into account all potential and kinetic energy components, all exchanges of energy within and between segments, and both positive and negative work done by the muscles. This analysis was applied to a study of over-ground level gait on eight subjects walking at different walking speeds. The internal work/stride as calculated from the sum of segment energies was compared with the same calculation on the body's center of mass energy. The latter was found to be in error (low) by 16.2% and could be low by as much as 40%. The average internal work per body mass per distance walked was 1.09 J/kg.m.", "contents": "A new definition of mechanical work done in human movement. The definition of efficiency of human movement has often been unable to cope with activities such as level gait because the numerator of the efficiency equation includes only external work done by the body on an external load. The major purpose of this paper is to propose a definition that not only accounts for any external work but also the internal work done by the limbs themselves. The internal work involves a new biomechanical analysis that takes into account all potential and kinetic energy components, all exchanges of energy within and between segments, and both positive and negative work done by the muscles. This analysis was applied to a study of over-ground level gait on eight subjects walking at different walking speeds. The internal work/stride as calculated from the sum of segment energies was compared with the same calculation on the body's center of mass energy. The latter was found to be in error (low) by 16.2% and could be low by as much as 40%. The average internal work per body mass per distance walked was 1.09 J/kg.m.", "PMID": 457534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12713", "title": "Pulmonary hemodynamic responses to elevated cerebral spinal fluid pressure in the dog.", "content": "To investigate the possibility that a pulmonary vasomotor reflex contributes to the pulmonary hemodynamic response to elevated cerebral spinal fluid pressure (PCSF), we studied 10 chloralose-anesthetized dogs in which the left lower lobe (LLL) perfusion was isolated to eliminate the influence of passive factors and of circulating vasoactive agents. Left lower lobe neural integrity was tested by electrically stimulating the stellate ganglion. This resulted in a 35.5% increase in lobar vascular resistance and a 29.1% increase in systemic vascular resistance. Elevating the PCSF to 137 Torr caused the systemic vascular resistance to increase 33.0%, but resulted in no change in LLL vascular resistance. In the intact right lung, this PCSF elevation resulted in increases in pulmonary artery and left atrial pressures, but no change in right lung vascular resistance. Because the neurally intact LLL did not respond to PCSF elevation and the responses of the right lung could be accounted for by passive mechanisms, we conclude that no pulmonary vascular reflex was elicited by PCSF elevation in this preparation.", "contents": "Pulmonary hemodynamic responses to elevated cerebral spinal fluid pressure in the dog. To investigate the possibility that a pulmonary vasomotor reflex contributes to the pulmonary hemodynamic response to elevated cerebral spinal fluid pressure (PCSF), we studied 10 chloralose-anesthetized dogs in which the left lower lobe (LLL) perfusion was isolated to eliminate the influence of passive factors and of circulating vasoactive agents. Left lower lobe neural integrity was tested by electrically stimulating the stellate ganglion. This resulted in a 35.5% increase in lobar vascular resistance and a 29.1% increase in systemic vascular resistance. Elevating the PCSF to 137 Torr caused the systemic vascular resistance to increase 33.0%, but resulted in no change in LLL vascular resistance. In the intact right lung, this PCSF elevation resulted in increases in pulmonary artery and left atrial pressures, but no change in right lung vascular resistance. Because the neurally intact LLL did not respond to PCSF elevation and the responses of the right lung could be accounted for by passive mechanisms, we conclude that no pulmonary vascular reflex was elicited by PCSF elevation in this preparation.", "PMID": 457535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12714", "title": "Responses of pial arterioles after prolonged hypercapnia and hypoxia in the awake rabbit.", "content": "The changes in the responsiveness of pial arterioles to CO2 and in the composition of cortical cerebrospinal fluid bathing these vessels were studied in the awake rabbit before and after 6 days exposure to hypercapnia (7% CO2) or hypoxia (10% O2). The vasodilator response of pial arterioles to inhalation of 3--10% CO2 was diminished after prolonged hypercapnia and enhanced after prolonged hypoxia. After both hypoxia and hypercapnia, pial arteriolar responsiveness to CO2 was immediately returned toward control levels by washing the brain surface with normal artificial cerebrospinal fluid. The bicarbonate concentration of cerebrospinal fluid bathing the pial vasculature showed a significant decrease after hypoxia and a significant increase after hypercapnia, whereas CSF pH remained unaltered. We conclude that the alteration in responsiveness of pial arterioles to CO2 is due to a change in the chemical composition of the CSF bathing these vessels, involving an adjustment in the concentration of bicarbonate ions.", "contents": "Responses of pial arterioles after prolonged hypercapnia and hypoxia in the awake rabbit. The changes in the responsiveness of pial arterioles to CO2 and in the composition of cortical cerebrospinal fluid bathing these vessels were studied in the awake rabbit before and after 6 days exposure to hypercapnia (7% CO2) or hypoxia (10% O2). The vasodilator response of pial arterioles to inhalation of 3--10% CO2 was diminished after prolonged hypercapnia and enhanced after prolonged hypoxia. After both hypoxia and hypercapnia, pial arteriolar responsiveness to CO2 was immediately returned toward control levels by washing the brain surface with normal artificial cerebrospinal fluid. The bicarbonate concentration of cerebrospinal fluid bathing the pial vasculature showed a significant decrease after hypoxia and a significant increase after hypercapnia, whereas CSF pH remained unaltered. We conclude that the alteration in responsiveness of pial arterioles to CO2 is due to a change in the chemical composition of the CSF bathing these vessels, involving an adjustment in the concentration of bicarbonate ions.", "PMID": 457536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12715", "title": "Pulmonary arterial distension and activity in phrenic nerve of anesthetized dogs.", "content": "In chloralose-anesthetized dogs a constant-flow, right atrium-to-left pulmonary artery, right-heart bypass was created. The right lung root was completely occluded and an isolated pouch of the main pulmonary arteries was perfused with venous blood at controlled nonpulsatile pressures between 10 and 90 Torr. An increase in pulmonary arterial pouch pressure caused an increase in systemic arterial pressure and in respiratory drive. In animals with afferent nerves intact, the increase in respiratory drive was indicated by an increase in the amplitude of the integrated phrenic electroneurogram. In animals with the left vagus nerve cut immediately above the left lung root, the increase in respiratory drive was evident by a shortening of the time of expiration. All responses were abolished by bilateral section of the cervical vagosympathetic trunks. It is concluded that in the preparation described pulmonary arterial distension causes a reflex increase in systemic vascular resistance and in respiratory drive, the afferent path of the reflex being in the vagus nerves.", "contents": "Pulmonary arterial distension and activity in phrenic nerve of anesthetized dogs. In chloralose-anesthetized dogs a constant-flow, right atrium-to-left pulmonary artery, right-heart bypass was created. The right lung root was completely occluded and an isolated pouch of the main pulmonary arteries was perfused with venous blood at controlled nonpulsatile pressures between 10 and 90 Torr. An increase in pulmonary arterial pouch pressure caused an increase in systemic arterial pressure and in respiratory drive. In animals with afferent nerves intact, the increase in respiratory drive was indicated by an increase in the amplitude of the integrated phrenic electroneurogram. In animals with the left vagus nerve cut immediately above the left lung root, the increase in respiratory drive was evident by a shortening of the time of expiration. All responses were abolished by bilateral section of the cervical vagosympathetic trunks. It is concluded that in the preparation described pulmonary arterial distension causes a reflex increase in systemic vascular resistance and in respiratory drive, the afferent path of the reflex being in the vagus nerves.", "PMID": 457537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12716", "title": "Effect of work-induced hypertrophy on skeletal muscle of tumor- and nontumor-bearing rats.", "content": "Synergistic muscles (soleus and plantaris) from a gastrocnemius-tenotomized hindlimb were compared to the same muscles in a sham-operated hindlimb in both tumor-bearing and non tumor-bearing rats. In nontumor-bearing animals muscle from the tenotomized hindlimb had a significant increase in wet weight (26%), percent-water (5%), and total nitrogen/muscle (10%) consistent with muscular hypertrophy. In tumor-bearing animals, muscle from the tenotomized hindlimb had a significant increase in wet weight and percent water, but there was no significant difference in total nitrogen/muscle. As the tumor burden increased, the final muscle weight, in both the tenotomized and sham-operated hindlimb, was found to decrease proportionately. Only in animals with large (23% body wt) tumor burdens did hypertrophied muscle weigh significantly less than sham-operated muscle from nontumor-bearing animals. This indicated that, in rats with large tumor burdens, work-induced hypertrophy was unable to preserve muscle mass despite the fact that hypertrophied muscle was 24% heavier than contralateral sham-operated muscle.", "contents": "Effect of work-induced hypertrophy on skeletal muscle of tumor- and nontumor-bearing rats. Synergistic muscles (soleus and plantaris) from a gastrocnemius-tenotomized hindlimb were compared to the same muscles in a sham-operated hindlimb in both tumor-bearing and non tumor-bearing rats. In nontumor-bearing animals muscle from the tenotomized hindlimb had a significant increase in wet weight (26%), percent-water (5%), and total nitrogen/muscle (10%) consistent with muscular hypertrophy. In tumor-bearing animals, muscle from the tenotomized hindlimb had a significant increase in wet weight and percent water, but there was no significant difference in total nitrogen/muscle. As the tumor burden increased, the final muscle weight, in both the tenotomized and sham-operated hindlimb, was found to decrease proportionately. Only in animals with large (23% body wt) tumor burdens did hypertrophied muscle weigh significantly less than sham-operated muscle from nontumor-bearing animals. This indicated that, in rats with large tumor burdens, work-induced hypertrophy was unable to preserve muscle mass despite the fact that hypertrophied muscle was 24% heavier than contralateral sham-operated muscle.", "PMID": 457541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12717", "title": "Demonstration of interlobar collateral ventilation.", "content": "In an ongoing series of experiments on mongrel dogs, three dogs were observed to have incomplete lobar fissures (interlobar connection present) between the left upper and left lower lobes. With the interlobar connection unclamped, selective hypoxia of the left lower lobe caused the electromagnetically measured blood flow to the left lower lobe to decrease 41 +/- 4%, whereas with the interlobar connection clamped selective hypoxia of the left lower lobe caused a 52 +/- 4% decrease in left lower lobe flow (P less than 0.05). Following 100% O2 ventilation and with the interlobar connection unclamped, complete occlusion of the left lower lobe bronchus caused no atelectasis or decrease in left lower lobe blood flow, whereas with the interlobar connection clamped complete occlusion of the left lower lobe bronchus caused complete left lower lobe atelectasis and a 58 +/- 3% decrease in left lower lobe blood flow. Histological confirmation of interlobar pulmonary parenchymal connection was obtained in each dog. We conclude that a sufficient amount of interlobar collateral ventilation can occur in dogs with incomplete lobar fissures to prevent absorption atelectasis and alter lobar blood flow reduction usually caused by selective lobar hypoxia.", "contents": "Demonstration of interlobar collateral ventilation. In an ongoing series of experiments on mongrel dogs, three dogs were observed to have incomplete lobar fissures (interlobar connection present) between the left upper and left lower lobes. With the interlobar connection unclamped, selective hypoxia of the left lower lobe caused the electromagnetically measured blood flow to the left lower lobe to decrease 41 +/- 4%, whereas with the interlobar connection clamped selective hypoxia of the left lower lobe caused a 52 +/- 4% decrease in left lower lobe flow (P less than 0.05). Following 100% O2 ventilation and with the interlobar connection unclamped, complete occlusion of the left lower lobe bronchus caused no atelectasis or decrease in left lower lobe blood flow, whereas with the interlobar connection clamped complete occlusion of the left lower lobe bronchus caused complete left lower lobe atelectasis and a 58 +/- 3% decrease in left lower lobe blood flow. Histological confirmation of interlobar pulmonary parenchymal connection was obtained in each dog. We conclude that a sufficient amount of interlobar collateral ventilation can occur in dogs with incomplete lobar fissures to prevent absorption atelectasis and alter lobar blood flow reduction usually caused by selective lobar hypoxia.", "PMID": 457542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12718", "title": "Catecholamines in dogs during cold adaptation by repeated immersions.", "content": "Dogs were immersed in cold water 1 h/day for 30 consecutive days. During the first immersion, oxygen uptake increased approximately sevenfold and colonic temperature decreased; a large increase in plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine concentrations was found; plasma glucose, lactic acid, and free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations were also increased. An adaptative response to cold was evidenced during the 10th immersion by a further increase in oxygen uptake and a reduction in the fall of colonic temperature; plasma epinephrine, glucose, and lactic acid were diminished whereas FFA were higher. Consequently 10 h spent in cold are sufficient to induce an improved capacity for heat production. An enhanced ability to produce nonshivering thermogenesis mediated by epinephrine or norepinephrine is not obvious because after the 30th immersion no enhanced calorigenic response to epinephrine or norepinephrine infusion was found. In dogs mechanisms other than norepinephrine-enhanced sensitivity might be involved in this kind of cold adaptation.", "contents": "Catecholamines in dogs during cold adaptation by repeated immersions. Dogs were immersed in cold water 1 h/day for 30 consecutive days. During the first immersion, oxygen uptake increased approximately sevenfold and colonic temperature decreased; a large increase in plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine concentrations was found; plasma glucose, lactic acid, and free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations were also increased. An adaptative response to cold was evidenced during the 10th immersion by a further increase in oxygen uptake and a reduction in the fall of colonic temperature; plasma epinephrine, glucose, and lactic acid were diminished whereas FFA were higher. Consequently 10 h spent in cold are sufficient to induce an improved capacity for heat production. An enhanced ability to produce nonshivering thermogenesis mediated by epinephrine or norepinephrine is not obvious because after the 30th immersion no enhanced calorigenic response to epinephrine or norepinephrine infusion was found. In dogs mechanisms other than norepinephrine-enhanced sensitivity might be involved in this kind of cold adaptation.", "PMID": 457543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12719", "title": "Graded inspiratory inhibition: specific effects of flow rate.", "content": "The effect of inspiratory flow rate on graded inspiratory inhibition was examined in barbiturate-anesthetized paralyzed cats normally ventilated by a phrenic-driven servorespirator. Periodically, the animals were inflated, for a single breath, by a constant-flow volume ramp begun at one of several delays following phrenic onset. The phrenic activity during these volume-ramp test inflations was compared with phrenic activity in the absence of volume feedback. The relation between volume and phrenic inhibition was determined for two different flow rates. Inhibition of phrenic activity began when volume above functional residual capacity (FRC) exceeded a time-dependent threshold and, beyond this threshold, continued in a graded fashion. The threshold for the first detectable inhibition declined as inspiratory time progressed both in intact animals and in pneumotaxic-lesioned animals when phrenic activity reached an apneustic plateau. Inspiratory inhibition was associated with similar lung volume above FRC regardless of whether volume resulted from high or low flow rates, suggesting that the processing of the receptor feedback information offsets flow effects on receptor firing.", "contents": "Graded inspiratory inhibition: specific effects of flow rate. The effect of inspiratory flow rate on graded inspiratory inhibition was examined in barbiturate-anesthetized paralyzed cats normally ventilated by a phrenic-driven servorespirator. Periodically, the animals were inflated, for a single breath, by a constant-flow volume ramp begun at one of several delays following phrenic onset. The phrenic activity during these volume-ramp test inflations was compared with phrenic activity in the absence of volume feedback. The relation between volume and phrenic inhibition was determined for two different flow rates. Inhibition of phrenic activity began when volume above functional residual capacity (FRC) exceeded a time-dependent threshold and, beyond this threshold, continued in a graded fashion. The threshold for the first detectable inhibition declined as inspiratory time progressed both in intact animals and in pneumotaxic-lesioned animals when phrenic activity reached an apneustic plateau. Inspiratory inhibition was associated with similar lung volume above FRC regardless of whether volume resulted from high or low flow rates, suggesting that the processing of the receptor feedback information offsets flow effects on receptor firing.", "PMID": 457544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12720", "title": "Intermittent flow in tendon capillary bundles.", "content": "The capillary bed has been observed in the Achilles tendon of 40 bullfrogs and 10 guinea pigs for periods of up to 2 h. The opening and closing of adjacent capillaries in a perfused area follows the pattern originally described by Krogh for skeletal muscle but the frequency is slower, as anticipated from the lower metabolic rate of tendon. However, superimposed on this \"flickering is a much slower process whereby whole bundles of 20-147 capillaries open and close with little overlap in the tissue areas perfused by each. Periods of no flow averaged 39 min in 70 bundles followed in bullfrogs and 43 min in 34 bundles followed in guinea pigs, although a few failed to open in 100 min. This bundle phenomenon is discussed in relation to the serious implications in mathematically modeling the exchange of gases and nutrients between blood and tissue and the possible errors in assuming time averaging when determining blood perfusion rates. Also mentioned are the likely effects of decompression on closed bundles and the notion is introduced that the bundle phenomenon may be a factor determining which tissues can be injured by decompression.", "contents": "Intermittent flow in tendon capillary bundles. The capillary bed has been observed in the Achilles tendon of 40 bullfrogs and 10 guinea pigs for periods of up to 2 h. The opening and closing of adjacent capillaries in a perfused area follows the pattern originally described by Krogh for skeletal muscle but the frequency is slower, as anticipated from the lower metabolic rate of tendon. However, superimposed on this \"flickering is a much slower process whereby whole bundles of 20-147 capillaries open and close with little overlap in the tissue areas perfused by each. Periods of no flow averaged 39 min in 70 bundles followed in bullfrogs and 43 min in 34 bundles followed in guinea pigs, although a few failed to open in 100 min. This bundle phenomenon is discussed in relation to the serious implications in mathematically modeling the exchange of gases and nutrients between blood and tissue and the possible errors in assuming time averaging when determining blood perfusion rates. Also mentioned are the likely effects of decompression on closed bundles and the notion is introduced that the bundle phenomenon may be a factor determining which tissues can be injured by decompression.", "PMID": 457548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12721", "title": "Fluid shifts during initial phase of immersion diuresis in man.", "content": "The object was to study fluid shifts in man during the 1st h of immersion diuresis. Control experiments were done on subjects lying down in air for 4 h with and without vasopressin. During immersion up to the neck, seven of nine subjects had significant diuresis and natriuresis. In the first 20 min of sitting in 33 degress C water, a hemodilution of 2% of blood volume was observed. As diuresis progressed, hemoconcentration began. When vasopressin was given just before immersion to prevent the diuresis, the hemodilution observed was greater and lasted longer. Thus the hematocrit fell by 1.7 U, plasma osmolality by 6.0 mosmol/kg, plasma proteins by 0.33 g/100 ml, and plasma sodium by 5.0 meq/l. We conclude that a hemodilution of about 4% of blood volume occurs during the early plasma of immersion and the degree of hyposmolality observed suggests that the fluid shifted was more hyposmotic than the interstitial fluid alone, possibly because some intracellular water may have shifted into the bloodstream during immersion.", "contents": "Fluid shifts during initial phase of immersion diuresis in man. The object was to study fluid shifts in man during the 1st h of immersion diuresis. Control experiments were done on subjects lying down in air for 4 h with and without vasopressin. During immersion up to the neck, seven of nine subjects had significant diuresis and natriuresis. In the first 20 min of sitting in 33 degress C water, a hemodilution of 2% of blood volume was observed. As diuresis progressed, hemoconcentration began. When vasopressin was given just before immersion to prevent the diuresis, the hemodilution observed was greater and lasted longer. Thus the hematocrit fell by 1.7 U, plasma osmolality by 6.0 mosmol/kg, plasma proteins by 0.33 g/100 ml, and plasma sodium by 5.0 meq/l. We conclude that a hemodilution of about 4% of blood volume occurs during the early plasma of immersion and the degree of hyposmolality observed suggests that the fluid shifted was more hyposmotic than the interstitial fluid alone, possibly because some intracellular water may have shifted into the bloodstream during immersion.", "PMID": 457549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12722", "title": "Respiratory mechanics in recumbent dogs anesthetized with thiopental sodium.", "content": "Pressure-volume (PV) and conductance-volume (GV) curves were obtained in trained dogs awake and then anesthetized with thiopental sodium, in the prone left lateral decubitus, and supine positions. By paired analyses, induction of anesthesia had no significant effect on lung volumes, static PV curves of the lung or chest wall, or static compliance of the lung or chest wall. In addition, change of posture had little effect on these variables in either the awake or the anesthetized state. Frequently, however, individual dogs showed changes in lung PV curves after induction of anesthesia or change of posture. These PV curve shifts were not accompanied by predictable changes in GV relations. Therefore, we concluded that such changes in the lung PV curve reflect either local artifacts or local deformation of the respiratory system.", "contents": "Respiratory mechanics in recumbent dogs anesthetized with thiopental sodium. Pressure-volume (PV) and conductance-volume (GV) curves were obtained in trained dogs awake and then anesthetized with thiopental sodium, in the prone left lateral decubitus, and supine positions. By paired analyses, induction of anesthesia had no significant effect on lung volumes, static PV curves of the lung or chest wall, or static compliance of the lung or chest wall. In addition, change of posture had little effect on these variables in either the awake or the anesthetized state. Frequently, however, individual dogs showed changes in lung PV curves after induction of anesthesia or change of posture. These PV curve shifts were not accompanied by predictable changes in GV relations. Therefore, we concluded that such changes in the lung PV curve reflect either local artifacts or local deformation of the respiratory system.", "PMID": 457550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12723", "title": "Training-induced changes in hormonal and metabolic responses to submaximal exercise.", "content": "Plasma glucagon and catecholamines increase during prolonged submaximal exercise, but the magnitude of the increase is less in endurance-trained individuals than in untrained subjects. We have studied the rapidity at which this adaptation occurs. Six initially untrained healthy subjects exercised vigorously (on bicycle ergometers and by running) 30-50 min/day, 6 days/wk, for 9 wk. Prior to the beginning of training and at 3-wk intervals thereafter, participants were subjected to 90-min bicycle ergometer test work loads that elicited 58 +/- 2% of the subjects' initial maximal oxygen consumption. The major proportion of the training-induced decrement in plasma glucagon and catecholamine responses to exercise was seen after 3 wk of training. We conclude that the hormonal component of the training adaptation occurs very early in the course of a vigorous endurance training program.", "contents": "Training-induced changes in hormonal and metabolic responses to submaximal exercise. Plasma glucagon and catecholamines increase during prolonged submaximal exercise, but the magnitude of the increase is less in endurance-trained individuals than in untrained subjects. We have studied the rapidity at which this adaptation occurs. Six initially untrained healthy subjects exercised vigorously (on bicycle ergometers and by running) 30-50 min/day, 6 days/wk, for 9 wk. Prior to the beginning of training and at 3-wk intervals thereafter, participants were subjected to 90-min bicycle ergometer test work loads that elicited 58 +/- 2% of the subjects' initial maximal oxygen consumption. The major proportion of the training-induced decrement in plasma glucagon and catecholamine responses to exercise was seen after 3 wk of training. We conclude that the hormonal component of the training adaptation occurs very early in the course of a vigorous endurance training program.", "PMID": 457555} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12724", "title": "A neuromuscular mechanism maintaining extrathoracic airway patency.", "content": "The ability of the extrathoracic airway (ETA) to remain open when exposed to negative pressure was investigated in rabbits. Postmortem, the ETA collapsed at -6.3 +/- 0.6 cmH2O whereas, during airway occlusion maneuvers in lightly anesthetized animals, it remained patent at pressures as low as -80 cmH2O. This discrepancy suggested that a neuromuscular mechanism maintains ETA patency. Four findings indicated that the genioglossus and geniohyoid muscles, which pull the tongue and hyoid bone anteriorly, help maintain ETA patency: 1) anterior movement of the hyoid bone increased the negative pressure at which the ETA collapsed postmortem, 2) ETA closure during occluded inspirations occurred after 12th nerve section abolished electromyographic activity in these muscles and 3) after deep anesthesia depressed such activity, and 4) closing pressure was linearly related to peak integrated electromyograms of the two muscles. After 12th nerve section, ETA closing pressure became more negative with progressive asphyxia greatly exceeding postmortem closing pressure, which suggests that other muscles also help maintain ETA patency. Blood gas tensions, respiratory system mechanoreceptors, and depth of anesthesia appear to influence genioglossus and geniohyoid activity.", "contents": "A neuromuscular mechanism maintaining extrathoracic airway patency. The ability of the extrathoracic airway (ETA) to remain open when exposed to negative pressure was investigated in rabbits. Postmortem, the ETA collapsed at -6.3 +/- 0.6 cmH2O whereas, during airway occlusion maneuvers in lightly anesthetized animals, it remained patent at pressures as low as -80 cmH2O. This discrepancy suggested that a neuromuscular mechanism maintains ETA patency. Four findings indicated that the genioglossus and geniohyoid muscles, which pull the tongue and hyoid bone anteriorly, help maintain ETA patency: 1) anterior movement of the hyoid bone increased the negative pressure at which the ETA collapsed postmortem, 2) ETA closure during occluded inspirations occurred after 12th nerve section abolished electromyographic activity in these muscles and 3) after deep anesthesia depressed such activity, and 4) closing pressure was linearly related to peak integrated electromyograms of the two muscles. After 12th nerve section, ETA closing pressure became more negative with progressive asphyxia greatly exceeding postmortem closing pressure, which suggests that other muscles also help maintain ETA patency. Blood gas tensions, respiratory system mechanoreceptors, and depth of anesthesia appear to influence genioglossus and geniohyoid activity.", "PMID": 457556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12725", "title": "Body carbon dioxide storage capacity in exercise.", "content": "Body CO2 storage capacity was measured in nine subjects at two levels of exercise, approximating 30 and 60% VO2max, by measuring the excess CO2 output associated with hyperventilation at constant end-tidal PCO2, and the change in mixed venous PCO2 (PVCO2) measured by rebreathing. CO2 output was measured during 20-s periods and monitored throughout the procedure; hyperventilation was continued until CO2 output had returned to control values. Washout of CO2 was more rapid than previously found at rest, 90% of the change following an increase in ventilation occurring within 4 min. CO2 storage capacity was 1.83 +/- 0.552 (SD) ml-kg--1.Torr--1 at the lower power output and 1.19 +/- 0.490 ml-kg--1.Torr--1 at the higher power output. The CO2 storage capacity was inversely related to PVCO2. It was concluded that the body's capacity to store CO2 decreases with increasing PVCO2; this may be one factor leading to the progressive increase in pulmonary CO2 output at high levels of exercise.", "contents": "Body carbon dioxide storage capacity in exercise. Body CO2 storage capacity was measured in nine subjects at two levels of exercise, approximating 30 and 60% VO2max, by measuring the excess CO2 output associated with hyperventilation at constant end-tidal PCO2, and the change in mixed venous PCO2 (PVCO2) measured by rebreathing. CO2 output was measured during 20-s periods and monitored throughout the procedure; hyperventilation was continued until CO2 output had returned to control values. Washout of CO2 was more rapid than previously found at rest, 90% of the change following an increase in ventilation occurring within 4 min. CO2 storage capacity was 1.83 +/- 0.552 (SD) ml-kg--1.Torr--1 at the lower power output and 1.19 +/- 0.490 ml-kg--1.Torr--1 at the higher power output. The CO2 storage capacity was inversely related to PVCO2. It was concluded that the body's capacity to store CO2 decreases with increasing PVCO2; this may be one factor leading to the progressive increase in pulmonary CO2 output at high levels of exercise.", "PMID": 457560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12726", "title": "Effects of chronic changes in hemoglobin-O2 affinity in rats.", "content": "We have assessed the characteristics of oxygen transport following chronic intraperitoneal administration of sodium cyanate (NaCNO, 90 mg/kg; P50 decreased), o-iodosodium benzoate (OISB, 300 mg/kg; P50 increased), or sodium chloride (NaCl; P50 unchanged) to rats at a rate of 5 times/wk for 16 wk. At the end of this period, the animals were exposed to a low inspired O2 concentration and were subjected to exercise stress. Hill's n50 at pH 6.90-7.60, hematocrit, and the saturation dependency of the Bohr effect (PCO2 constant) were altered by NaCNO only. Cyanate-treated rats gained less weight, probably due to a toxic side effect of the drug. Hypoxemia-induced lactatemia was greatest with a high P50 (OISB). Physical effort (swimming) was tolerated poorly at normal arterial PO2 when P50 was low (NaCNO). Although a left-shifted curve appears beneficial when FIO2 is reduced, reasons for the physiological advantage may be the result of other characteristics of the O2 dissociation curve, not P50 alone.", "contents": "Effects of chronic changes in hemoglobin-O2 affinity in rats. We have assessed the characteristics of oxygen transport following chronic intraperitoneal administration of sodium cyanate (NaCNO, 90 mg/kg; P50 decreased), o-iodosodium benzoate (OISB, 300 mg/kg; P50 increased), or sodium chloride (NaCl; P50 unchanged) to rats at a rate of 5 times/wk for 16 wk. At the end of this period, the animals were exposed to a low inspired O2 concentration and were subjected to exercise stress. Hill's n50 at pH 6.90-7.60, hematocrit, and the saturation dependency of the Bohr effect (PCO2 constant) were altered by NaCNO only. Cyanate-treated rats gained less weight, probably due to a toxic side effect of the drug. Hypoxemia-induced lactatemia was greatest with a high P50 (OISB). Physical effort (swimming) was tolerated poorly at normal arterial PO2 when P50 was low (NaCNO). Although a left-shifted curve appears beneficial when FIO2 is reduced, reasons for the physiological advantage may be the result of other characteristics of the O2 dissociation curve, not P50 alone.", "PMID": 457561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12727", "title": "Acute hypertrophic response of skeletal muscle to removal of synergists.", "content": "The purpose of this project was to study the initial rapid enlargement phase of skeletal muscle in response to ablation of synergistic muscles. The first experiment tested the hypothesis that this initial phase is due to inflammation in the enlarging muscle. The wet weight of the plantaris muscle increased significantly (14%) within 1 h after removal of the ipsilateral gastrocnemius muscle. This increase was due to inflammation, as evidenced initially by edema, and within the next few hours, by leukocyte invasion of the interstitium and enhanced hexose monophosphate shunt-reducing capacity. In the second experiment we followed the time course of this inflammatory reaction. The response peaked at 1-5 days following surgery, after which it subsided to control levels by 16 days postsurgery. The final experiments were designed to uncover the factor(s) causing the inflammatory response. Two possible mechanisms were hypothesized: 1) trauma resulting from surgical manipulation of the tissue, and 2) trauma due to elevated stretch and/or tension on the muscle following removal of the synergists. The data indicate that surgical trauma is the causative factor of the inflammatory response in this hypertrophy model.", "contents": "Acute hypertrophic response of skeletal muscle to removal of synergists. The purpose of this project was to study the initial rapid enlargement phase of skeletal muscle in response to ablation of synergistic muscles. The first experiment tested the hypothesis that this initial phase is due to inflammation in the enlarging muscle. The wet weight of the plantaris muscle increased significantly (14%) within 1 h after removal of the ipsilateral gastrocnemius muscle. This increase was due to inflammation, as evidenced initially by edema, and within the next few hours, by leukocyte invasion of the interstitium and enhanced hexose monophosphate shunt-reducing capacity. In the second experiment we followed the time course of this inflammatory reaction. The response peaked at 1-5 days following surgery, after which it subsided to control levels by 16 days postsurgery. The final experiments were designed to uncover the factor(s) causing the inflammatory response. Two possible mechanisms were hypothesized: 1) trauma resulting from surgical manipulation of the tissue, and 2) trauma due to elevated stretch and/or tension on the muscle following removal of the synergists. The data indicate that surgical trauma is the causative factor of the inflammatory response in this hypertrophy model.", "PMID": 457564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12728", "title": "Fecal fat and trypsin in dogs fed a meat-base or cereal-base diet.", "content": "Fat balance studies and quantitative analysis of fecal trypsin were done on 2 groups of Beagles fed either a meat-base (8.8% fat) or a cereal-base (10.5% fat) diet. In the amount fed, the meat-base diet provided 2.5 to 3 times more fat than the cereal-base diet, yet the mean daily fecal fat output of the 2 groups was not significantly different. Thus the percentage assimilation of fat in cereal-base diet (90.0%) was significantly (P less than 0.01) lower than that in the meat-base diet (96.9%). Dietary composition made no significant difference in fecal trypsin output, although the mean output from dogs fed the meat-base diet 4 times higher than that from dogs fed the cereal-base diet.", "contents": "Fecal fat and trypsin in dogs fed a meat-base or cereal-base diet. Fat balance studies and quantitative analysis of fecal trypsin were done on 2 groups of Beagles fed either a meat-base (8.8% fat) or a cereal-base (10.5% fat) diet. In the amount fed, the meat-base diet provided 2.5 to 3 times more fat than the cereal-base diet, yet the mean daily fecal fat output of the 2 groups was not significantly different. Thus the percentage assimilation of fat in cereal-base diet (90.0%) was significantly (P less than 0.01) lower than that in the meat-base diet (96.9%). Dietary composition made no significant difference in fecal trypsin output, although the mean output from dogs fed the meat-base diet 4 times higher than that from dogs fed the cereal-base diet.", "PMID": 457571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12729", "title": "Determination of fecal fat and trypsin output in the evaluation of chronic canine diarrhea.", "content": "Quantitative fat and trypsin analysis was done on the feces of dogs with chronic diarrhea. The results of clinical examination, quantitative fecal analysis, and other laboratory tests permitted assignment of the dogs into one of 4 groups: (1)pancreatic exocrine insufficiency,(2)small intestinal malabsorption,(3)colitis, and(4)other nonspecific or incompletely diagnosed diarrhea. The mean 24-hour fat output was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) in dogs with malabsorption or pancreatic insufficiency than in clinically normal dogs, dogs with colitis, or dogs with nonsteatorrheic diarrheas. The mean 24-hour trypsin output with pancreatic insufficiency was significantly (P less than 0.01) lower, and in dogs with malabsorption, significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in clinically normal dogs. Normalization of the output data for body weight enhanced the value of fat and trypsin analyses in the differentiation of pancreatic insufficiency and intestinal malabsorption from other causes of chronic canine diarrhea.", "contents": "Determination of fecal fat and trypsin output in the evaluation of chronic canine diarrhea. Quantitative fat and trypsin analysis was done on the feces of dogs with chronic diarrhea. The results of clinical examination, quantitative fecal analysis, and other laboratory tests permitted assignment of the dogs into one of 4 groups: (1)pancreatic exocrine insufficiency,(2)small intestinal malabsorption,(3)colitis, and(4)other nonspecific or incompletely diagnosed diarrhea. The mean 24-hour fat output was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) in dogs with malabsorption or pancreatic insufficiency than in clinically normal dogs, dogs with colitis, or dogs with nonsteatorrheic diarrheas. The mean 24-hour trypsin output with pancreatic insufficiency was significantly (P less than 0.01) lower, and in dogs with malabsorption, significantly (P less than 0.05) higher than in clinically normal dogs. Normalization of the output data for body weight enhanced the value of fat and trypsin analyses in the differentiation of pancreatic insufficiency and intestinal malabsorption from other causes of chronic canine diarrhea.", "PMID": 457572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12730", "title": "Primary hyperparathyroidism in a dog.", "content": "A 6-year-old male Standard Poodle had hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and a urinary concentrating defect. A parathyroid adenoma involving the left caudal parathyroid gland was surgically removed. Transient hypocalcemia followed, which resolved without treatment. A renal biopsy did not demonstrate renal parenchymal mineral deposition. Urinary concentrating ability returned after surgery.", "contents": "Primary hyperparathyroidism in a dog. A 6-year-old male Standard Poodle had hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and a urinary concentrating defect. A parathyroid adenoma involving the left caudal parathyroid gland was surgically removed. Transient hypocalcemia followed, which resolved without treatment. A renal biopsy did not demonstrate renal parenchymal mineral deposition. Urinary concentrating ability returned after surgery.", "PMID": 457573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12731", "title": "Colorectal polyps of the dog: a clinicopathologic study of 17 cases.", "content": "Seventeen cases of colorectal polyps in the dog were seen at the Ontario Veterinary College over a 12-year period. The mean age of occurrence was 6.9 years, and males and females were almost equally affected. The Collie was the most frequently affected breed (4/17). The clinical signs were typically dyschezia, periodic intermittent diarrhea and melena, and rectal prolapse of the polyp. The histopatholic classifcation were hyperplastic polyp (1), papillary adenoma (1), tubular adenoma (4), papillotubular adenoma (10), and unclassified (1). Severe epithelial atypia, likely carcinoma in situ, was apparent in 5 of the papillotubular adenomas. Retrospective analysis of survival data after polypectomy suggested a good prognosis, but the results were inconclusive and it is possible that some of the polyps represented premalignant lesions. Large polyps (greater than 1 cm in diameter) frequently had marked epithelial atypia and were considered more likely to recur or to become malignant.", "contents": "Colorectal polyps of the dog: a clinicopathologic study of 17 cases. Seventeen cases of colorectal polyps in the dog were seen at the Ontario Veterinary College over a 12-year period. The mean age of occurrence was 6.9 years, and males and females were almost equally affected. The Collie was the most frequently affected breed (4/17). The clinical signs were typically dyschezia, periodic intermittent diarrhea and melena, and rectal prolapse of the polyp. The histopatholic classifcation were hyperplastic polyp (1), papillary adenoma (1), tubular adenoma (4), papillotubular adenoma (10), and unclassified (1). Severe epithelial atypia, likely carcinoma in situ, was apparent in 5 of the papillotubular adenomas. Retrospective analysis of survival data after polypectomy suggested a good prognosis, but the results were inconclusive and it is possible that some of the polyps represented premalignant lesions. Large polyps (greater than 1 cm in diameter) frequently had marked epithelial atypia and were considered more likely to recur or to become malignant.", "PMID": 457574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12732", "title": "A new broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic complex, sporaricin. II. Taxonomic studies on the sporaricin producing strain Saccharopolyspora hirsuta subsp. Kobensis nov. subsp.", "content": "Morphological, cultural and physiological characteristics of a new nocardioform actinomycete are reported. The microorganism which produces the antibiotic complex sporaricin has been selectively isolated from a sample of soil obtained from Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. By whole-cell analysis of the actinomycete, meso-diaminopimelic acid, arabinose and galactose were identified. But lipid LCN-A (lipid characteristic of Nocardia) and nocardomycolic acid were not detected. The taxonomic characteristics of this strain is closely related to the genus of Saccharopolyspora, described by LACEY and GOODFELLOW. Based on the taxonomic comparison with Saccharopolyspora hirsuta ATCC 27875, the strain was considered to be a subspecies of Saccharopolyspora hirsuta. Therefore, the proposed subspecies is named Saccharopolyspora hirsuta subsp. kobensis.", "contents": "A new broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic complex, sporaricin. II. Taxonomic studies on the sporaricin producing strain Saccharopolyspora hirsuta subsp. Kobensis nov. subsp. Morphological, cultural and physiological characteristics of a new nocardioform actinomycete are reported. The microorganism which produces the antibiotic complex sporaricin has been selectively isolated from a sample of soil obtained from Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. By whole-cell analysis of the actinomycete, meso-diaminopimelic acid, arabinose and galactose were identified. But lipid LCN-A (lipid characteristic of Nocardia) and nocardomycolic acid were not detected. The taxonomic characteristics of this strain is closely related to the genus of Saccharopolyspora, described by LACEY and GOODFELLOW. Based on the taxonomic comparison with Saccharopolyspora hirsuta ATCC 27875, the strain was considered to be a subspecies of Saccharopolyspora hirsuta. Therefore, the proposed subspecies is named Saccharopolyspora hirsuta subsp. kobensis.", "PMID": 457579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12733", "title": "A new broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic complex, sporaricin. III. The structures of sporaricins A and B.", "content": "The structures of sporaricins A and B have been determined to be 2-amino-1-O-(2,6-diamino-2,3,4,6,7-pentadeoxy-beta-L-lyxo-heptopyranosyl)-2,3,5-trideoxy-5-(N-glycyl-N-methyl-amino)-4-O-methyl-D-chiro-inositol and 2-amino-1-O-(2,6-diamino-2,3,4,6,7-pentadeoxy-beta-L-lyxo-heptopyranosyl)-2,3,5-trideoxy-4-O-methyl-5-methylamino-D-chiro-inositol, respectively.", "contents": "A new broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic complex, sporaricin. III. The structures of sporaricins A and B. The structures of sporaricins A and B have been determined to be 2-amino-1-O-(2,6-diamino-2,3,4,6,7-pentadeoxy-beta-L-lyxo-heptopyranosyl)-2,3,5-trideoxy-5-(N-glycyl-N-methyl-amino)-4-O-methyl-D-chiro-inositol and 2-amino-1-O-(2,6-diamino-2,3,4,6,7-pentadeoxy-beta-L-lyxo-heptopyranosyl)-2,3,5-trideoxy-4-O-methyl-5-methylamino-D-chiro-inositol, respectively.", "PMID": 457580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12734", "title": "Capsimycin, a new antibiotic. I. Production, isolation and properties.", "content": "Capsimycin is a new antifungal antibiotic produced by a strain of Streptomyces sp. C 49--87. The active substance in the fermented broth was isolated by solvent extraction followed by silica gel column chromatography. The antibiotic melts at 186 degrees C (decomp.) and has a molecular formula C30H40N2O6. It exhibits marked inhibitory activity against Phytophthora capsici (Leaf blight disease of cucumber) and Pythium debaryanum (Damping-off disease of cucumber).", "contents": "Capsimycin, a new antibiotic. I. Production, isolation and properties. Capsimycin is a new antifungal antibiotic produced by a strain of Streptomyces sp. C 49--87. The active substance in the fermented broth was isolated by solvent extraction followed by silica gel column chromatography. The antibiotic melts at 186 degrees C (decomp.) and has a molecular formula C30H40N2O6. It exhibits marked inhibitory activity against Phytophthora capsici (Leaf blight disease of cucumber) and Pythium debaryanum (Damping-off disease of cucumber).", "PMID": 457581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12735", "title": "New daunorubicin analogs. 3-Amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-alpha- and beta-D-arabino- and 3,6-diamino-2,3,6-trideoxy- alpha-D-ribo-hexopyranosides of daunomycinone.", "content": "Glycosidation of 2,3,6-trideoxy-3-trifluoroacetamido-4-O-trifluoroacetyl-alpha-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl chloride (19) (or the corresponding 4-p-nitrobenzoate, 20) with daunomycinone under Koenigs-Knorr conditions afforded, after separation of the anomers and removal of the protecting groups, the individual target glycosides 8 (alpha anomer; major product) and 9 (beta; minor) in acceptable yields. In contrast, the title diamino sugar, suitably protected with N-trifluoroacetyl and O-acetyl (or O-p-nitrobenzoyl) groups, underwent stereospecific coupling to the anthracycline aglycon by the glycal procedure to give, after deprotection, the alpha glycoside 12. All three analogs were assayed in vivo against P388 lymphocytic leukemia. They showed little (T/C 125 for 8; T/C 115 for 9) or no (compound 12) activity, but were essentially devoid of toxicity at the dose-levels tested.", "contents": "New daunorubicin analogs. 3-Amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-alpha- and beta-D-arabino- and 3,6-diamino-2,3,6-trideoxy- alpha-D-ribo-hexopyranosides of daunomycinone. Glycosidation of 2,3,6-trideoxy-3-trifluoroacetamido-4-O-trifluoroacetyl-alpha-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl chloride (19) (or the corresponding 4-p-nitrobenzoate, 20) with daunomycinone under Koenigs-Knorr conditions afforded, after separation of the anomers and removal of the protecting groups, the individual target glycosides 8 (alpha anomer; major product) and 9 (beta; minor) in acceptable yields. In contrast, the title diamino sugar, suitably protected with N-trifluoroacetyl and O-acetyl (or O-p-nitrobenzoyl) groups, underwent stereospecific coupling to the anthracycline aglycon by the glycal procedure to give, after deprotection, the alpha glycoside 12. All three analogs were assayed in vivo against P388 lymphocytic leukemia. They showed little (T/C 125 for 8; T/C 115 for 9) or no (compound 12) activity, but were essentially devoid of toxicity at the dose-levels tested.", "PMID": 457582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12736", "title": "The synthesis of epsilon-rhodomycinone- and carminomycin-11-methyl ethers.", "content": "The conversion of epsilon-rhodomycinone to its 11-methyl ether via selective hydrolysis of the 4,6,7,11-tetraacetate is described. This series of reactions was used as a model for the conversion of carminomycin to its 11-methyl ether. The anti-tumor activity of the latter compound was less than that of both carminomycin and its 4-methyl ether (daunomycin).", "contents": "The synthesis of epsilon-rhodomycinone- and carminomycin-11-methyl ethers. The conversion of epsilon-rhodomycinone to its 11-methyl ether via selective hydrolysis of the 4,6,7,11-tetraacetate is described. This series of reactions was used as a model for the conversion of carminomycin to its 11-methyl ether. The anti-tumor activity of the latter compound was less than that of both carminomycin and its 4-methyl ether (daunomycin).", "PMID": 457585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12737", "title": "Allergenic significance of some fungi prevailing in the respiratory tract of allergy patients--A preliminary study.", "content": "The allergenic significance of some fungi prevailing in the respiratory tract of allergy patients was studied. The percentage of markedly positive intradermal reactions observed was higher in patients to the extracts of homologous fungi found in their respiratory passages as compared to the patients who did not show the same fungi in theri respiratory tact.", "contents": "Allergenic significance of some fungi prevailing in the respiratory tract of allergy patients--A preliminary study. The allergenic significance of some fungi prevailing in the respiratory tract of allergy patients was studied. The percentage of markedly positive intradermal reactions observed was higher in patients to the extracts of homologous fungi found in their respiratory passages as compared to the patients who did not show the same fungi in theri respiratory tact.", "PMID": 457589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12738", "title": "Specific interaction of the tetragonally arrayed protein layer of Bacillus sphaericus with its peptidoglycan sacculus.", "content": "Tetragonal layer protein (T-layer) isolated from Bacillus sphaericus NTCC 9602 (wild type) or 9602 Lmw (variant) bonded specifically to the sacculi (peptidoglycan) of either cell type. Only uncleaved T-layer subunits were capable of specific recognition of the B. sphaericus sacculi; other Bacillus strains and gram-positive bacterial sacculi would not adsorb B. sphaericus strain 9602 T-layer. The peptidogylcan did not function as a template since isolated T-layer subunits self-assembled into characteristic pattern. Upon reassociation with sacculi, T-layer assemblies were randomly oriented patches compared with more continuous strictly oriented pattern on cells or fresh cell walls. T-layer associated with the sacculus was less susceptible to conditions that dissociated in vitro-assembled T-layer. Mild proteolysis of both wild-type and variant T-layer subunits by a variety of enzymes reduced the molecular weight by 18,000 in all cases, indicating that one region of the molecule was particularly susceptible to cleavage. Subunits from which the minor fragment had been cleaved upon aging retained the capacity to assemble in vitro, but would no longer adsorb to sacculi. Thus, the ability of T-layer to form networks was separate from its ability to bind cell walls, and the 18,000-dalton piece of the T-layer polypeptide was necessary for attachment to the cell wall.", "contents": "Specific interaction of the tetragonally arrayed protein layer of Bacillus sphaericus with its peptidoglycan sacculus. Tetragonal layer protein (T-layer) isolated from Bacillus sphaericus NTCC 9602 (wild type) or 9602 Lmw (variant) bonded specifically to the sacculi (peptidoglycan) of either cell type. Only uncleaved T-layer subunits were capable of specific recognition of the B. sphaericus sacculi; other Bacillus strains and gram-positive bacterial sacculi would not adsorb B. sphaericus strain 9602 T-layer. The peptidogylcan did not function as a template since isolated T-layer subunits self-assembled into characteristic pattern. Upon reassociation with sacculi, T-layer assemblies were randomly oriented patches compared with more continuous strictly oriented pattern on cells or fresh cell walls. T-layer associated with the sacculus was less susceptible to conditions that dissociated in vitro-assembled T-layer. Mild proteolysis of both wild-type and variant T-layer subunits by a variety of enzymes reduced the molecular weight by 18,000 in all cases, indicating that one region of the molecule was particularly susceptible to cleavage. Subunits from which the minor fragment had been cleaved upon aging retained the capacity to assemble in vitro, but would no longer adsorb to sacculi. Thus, the ability of T-layer to form networks was separate from its ability to bind cell walls, and the 18,000-dalton piece of the T-layer polypeptide was necessary for attachment to the cell wall.", "PMID": 457591} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12739", "title": "Aflatoxin biosynthesis: detection of transient, acetate-dependent intermediates in Aspergillus by kinetic pulse-labeling.", "content": "A simple technique was developed for the detection of intermediary metabolites of Aspergillus versicolor that are putative precursors of aflatoxin. Minicolony populations were allowed to metabolize [1,2-14C]acetate over various time intervals. The biosynthetic reactions were quenched by quick-freezing the minicolonies, the cells were disrupted, and the metabolites were extracted into acetone. Small silica thin-layer chromatographic plates were then used to separate any radioactive metabolites present. Elution in two or three different directions was often necessary. Radioautography of the thin-layer chromatography plates provided a sensitive assay for the appearance of the various intermediates in a timing pattern which implicated the sequence of formation. Transient intermediates were distinguished from dead-end metabolites by the rapid formation and disappearance of the former. At least five unknown precursors of versicolorin A, a dead-end metabolite, were recognized. The kinetic pulse-labeling technique should be generally applicable to other fungal species whenever the entrapment of intermediary metabolites in the mycelium poses and technical problem.", "contents": "Aflatoxin biosynthesis: detection of transient, acetate-dependent intermediates in Aspergillus by kinetic pulse-labeling. A simple technique was developed for the detection of intermediary metabolites of Aspergillus versicolor that are putative precursors of aflatoxin. Minicolony populations were allowed to metabolize [1,2-14C]acetate over various time intervals. The biosynthetic reactions were quenched by quick-freezing the minicolonies, the cells were disrupted, and the metabolites were extracted into acetone. Small silica thin-layer chromatographic plates were then used to separate any radioactive metabolites present. Elution in two or three different directions was often necessary. Radioautography of the thin-layer chromatography plates provided a sensitive assay for the appearance of the various intermediates in a timing pattern which implicated the sequence of formation. Transient intermediates were distinguished from dead-end metabolites by the rapid formation and disappearance of the former. At least five unknown precursors of versicolorin A, a dead-end metabolite, were recognized. The kinetic pulse-labeling technique should be generally applicable to other fungal species whenever the entrapment of intermediary metabolites in the mycelium poses and technical problem.", "PMID": 457592} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12740", "title": "Excretion of glutamic acid in Citrobacter intermedius C3 associated with plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid.", "content": "Several mutants of Citrobacter intermedius C3 lacking both the ability to synthesize proline and the ability to excrete glutamic acid were isolated by treatment with nitrosoguanidine. No revertants for either characteristic were obtained from these mutants. The ability to excrete glutamic acid was transferred to those mutants with very high frequencies in mating experience by using auxotropic excreting strains as donors. Moreover, the ability to synthesize proline was transferred together with the ability to excrete glutamic acid when an excreting strain was used as donor. The transconjugants showed a rapid spontaneous curing of both genetic markers. It was shown by two different methods that a band of covalently closed circular deoxyribonucleic acid is present in the cesium chloride gradients corresponding to the wild type and excretor mutants. Nonexcretor mutants described herein lacked such a band. Pro + transformants that were also excretors were obtained with plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid isolated either from wild type or from an excretor mutant. These data strongly indicate that glutamic acid excretion in C. intermedius C3 is related to the presence of extrachromosomal deoxyribonucleic acid.", "contents": "Excretion of glutamic acid in Citrobacter intermedius C3 associated with plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid. Several mutants of Citrobacter intermedius C3 lacking both the ability to synthesize proline and the ability to excrete glutamic acid were isolated by treatment with nitrosoguanidine. No revertants for either characteristic were obtained from these mutants. The ability to excrete glutamic acid was transferred to those mutants with very high frequencies in mating experience by using auxotropic excreting strains as donors. Moreover, the ability to synthesize proline was transferred together with the ability to excrete glutamic acid when an excreting strain was used as donor. The transconjugants showed a rapid spontaneous curing of both genetic markers. It was shown by two different methods that a band of covalently closed circular deoxyribonucleic acid is present in the cesium chloride gradients corresponding to the wild type and excretor mutants. Nonexcretor mutants described herein lacked such a band. Pro + transformants that were also excretors were obtained with plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid isolated either from wild type or from an excretor mutant. These data strongly indicate that glutamic acid excretion in C. intermedius C3 is related to the presence of extrachromosomal deoxyribonucleic acid.", "PMID": 457593} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12741", "title": "Obligatory biosynthesis of L-tyrosine via the pretyrosine branchlet in coryneform bacteria.", "content": "Species of coryneform bacteria (Corynebacterium glutamicum, Brevibacterium flavum, and B. ammoniagenes) utilize pretyrosine [beta-(1-carboxy-4-hydroxy-2,5-cyclohexadien-1-yl) alanine] as an intermediate in L-tyrosine biosynthesis. Pretyrosine is formed from prephenate via the activity of at least one species of aromatic aminotransferase which is significantly greater with prephenate as substrate than with either phenylpyruvate or 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate. Pretyrosine dehydrogenase, capable of converting pretyrosine to L-tyrosine, has been partially purified from all three species. Each of the three pretyrosine dehydrogenases is catalytically active with either nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate as cofactors. The Km values for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate in C. glutamicum and B. flavum are 55 microM and 14.2 microM, respectively, and corresponding Km values for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide are 350 microM and 625 microM, respectively. The molecular weights of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in C. glutamicum and in B. flavum are both about 158,000, compared with 68,000 moleculr weitht in B. ammoniagenes. In all three species the enzyme is not feedback inhibited by L-tyrosine. Results obtained with various auxotropic mutants, which were used to manipulate internal concentrations of L-tyrosine, suggest that pretyrosine dehydrogenase is expressed constitutively. Pretyrosine dehydrogenase is quite sensitive to p-hydroxymercuribenzoic acid, complete inhibition being achieved at 10 to 25 microM concentrations. This inhibition is readily reversed by thiol reagents such as 2-mercaptoethanol. Coryneform organisms, like species of blue-green bacteria, appear to lack the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate pa thway of L-tyrosine synthesis altogether. The loss of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in extracts prepared from a tyrosine auxotroph affirms the exclusive role of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in L-tyrosine biosynthesis. Other reports in the literature, in which the presence in these organisms of prephenate dehydrogenase is described, appear to be erroneous.", "contents": "Obligatory biosynthesis of L-tyrosine via the pretyrosine branchlet in coryneform bacteria. Species of coryneform bacteria (Corynebacterium glutamicum, Brevibacterium flavum, and B. ammoniagenes) utilize pretyrosine [beta-(1-carboxy-4-hydroxy-2,5-cyclohexadien-1-yl) alanine] as an intermediate in L-tyrosine biosynthesis. Pretyrosine is formed from prephenate via the activity of at least one species of aromatic aminotransferase which is significantly greater with prephenate as substrate than with either phenylpyruvate or 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate. Pretyrosine dehydrogenase, capable of converting pretyrosine to L-tyrosine, has been partially purified from all three species. Each of the three pretyrosine dehydrogenases is catalytically active with either nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate as cofactors. The Km values for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate in C. glutamicum and B. flavum are 55 microM and 14.2 microM, respectively, and corresponding Km values for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide are 350 microM and 625 microM, respectively. The molecular weights of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in C. glutamicum and in B. flavum are both about 158,000, compared with 68,000 moleculr weitht in B. ammoniagenes. In all three species the enzyme is not feedback inhibited by L-tyrosine. Results obtained with various auxotropic mutants, which were used to manipulate internal concentrations of L-tyrosine, suggest that pretyrosine dehydrogenase is expressed constitutively. Pretyrosine dehydrogenase is quite sensitive to p-hydroxymercuribenzoic acid, complete inhibition being achieved at 10 to 25 microM concentrations. This inhibition is readily reversed by thiol reagents such as 2-mercaptoethanol. Coryneform organisms, like species of blue-green bacteria, appear to lack the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate pa thway of L-tyrosine synthesis altogether. The loss of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in extracts prepared from a tyrosine auxotroph affirms the exclusive role of pretyrosine dehydrogenase in L-tyrosine biosynthesis. Other reports in the literature, in which the presence in these organisms of prephenate dehydrogenase is described, appear to be erroneous.", "PMID": 457594} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12742", "title": "Effect of sugars on D-arabitol production and glucose metabolism in Saccharomyces rouxii.", "content": "The effect of sugars on the production of d-arabitol and on the glucose catabolic pathways was investigated in the osmotrophic yeast Saccharomyces rouxii. The activity of d-arabitol dehydrogenase, which served as a measure of total d-arabitol production, increased when cells were grown in the presence of increasing glucose concentrations. Growth in sucrose had no effect on the enzyme activity. A high intracellular concentration of d-arabitol could be demonstrated when the cells were grown in a 60% glucose medium and could be eliminated by anaerobic growth or growth in the presence of 4 mg of chloramphenicol per ml. A mutant was isolated that would not grow in 60% glucose; although the regulation of d-arabitol dehydrogenase was altered in this strain, the production of d-arabitol was not eliminated. The activity of d-arabitol dehydrogenase followed the growth phases of the parent strain when the cells were preadapted to 30% glucose. If the cells were adapting from 1 to 30% glucose, a large increase in enzyme activity was detected before growth occurred. Protein synthesis was found to be involved in this increase in activity. There was an increased participation of the pentose phosphate pathway when the cells were grown in the presence of increasing glucose concentrations. The mutant strain had only an 11% pentose phosphate pathway participation compared with 20% for the parent strain in glucose. The results suggest that the active pentose phosphate pathway is involved in glucose tolerance by providing a plentiful supply of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate which is necessary for cell survival.", "contents": "Effect of sugars on D-arabitol production and glucose metabolism in Saccharomyces rouxii. The effect of sugars on the production of d-arabitol and on the glucose catabolic pathways was investigated in the osmotrophic yeast Saccharomyces rouxii. The activity of d-arabitol dehydrogenase, which served as a measure of total d-arabitol production, increased when cells were grown in the presence of increasing glucose concentrations. Growth in sucrose had no effect on the enzyme activity. A high intracellular concentration of d-arabitol could be demonstrated when the cells were grown in a 60% glucose medium and could be eliminated by anaerobic growth or growth in the presence of 4 mg of chloramphenicol per ml. A mutant was isolated that would not grow in 60% glucose; although the regulation of d-arabitol dehydrogenase was altered in this strain, the production of d-arabitol was not eliminated. The activity of d-arabitol dehydrogenase followed the growth phases of the parent strain when the cells were preadapted to 30% glucose. If the cells were adapting from 1 to 30% glucose, a large increase in enzyme activity was detected before growth occurred. Protein synthesis was found to be involved in this increase in activity. There was an increased participation of the pentose phosphate pathway when the cells were grown in the presence of increasing glucose concentrations. The mutant strain had only an 11% pentose phosphate pathway participation compared with 20% for the parent strain in glucose. The results suggest that the active pentose phosphate pathway is involved in glucose tolerance by providing a plentiful supply of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate which is necessary for cell survival.", "PMID": 457595} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12743", "title": "Flagellar hook and basal complex of Caulobacter crescentus.", "content": "Intact bacterial flagella possessing a membrane-free hook and basal complex were purified from Caulobacter crescentus CB15, as well as from mutants which synthesize incomplete flagella. The basal body consisted of five rings mounted on a rod. Two rings were in the hook-proximal upper set, and three rings (two narrow and one wide) were in the lower set. The diameters of the two upper rings differed, being 32 and 21 nm, respectively. The lower rings were all approximately 21 nm in diameter, although they varied significantly in width. During the normal course of the C. crescentus cell cycle, the polar flagellum with hook and rod was shed into the culture medium without the basal rings. Similarly, hooks with attached rods were shed from nonflagellate mutants, and these structures also lacked the basal rings. The hook structure was purified from nonflagellated mutants and found to be composed of a 70,000-molecular-weight protein component.", "contents": "Flagellar hook and basal complex of Caulobacter crescentus. Intact bacterial flagella possessing a membrane-free hook and basal complex were purified from Caulobacter crescentus CB15, as well as from mutants which synthesize incomplete flagella. The basal body consisted of five rings mounted on a rod. Two rings were in the hook-proximal upper set, and three rings (two narrow and one wide) were in the lower set. The diameters of the two upper rings differed, being 32 and 21 nm, respectively. The lower rings were all approximately 21 nm in diameter, although they varied significantly in width. During the normal course of the C. crescentus cell cycle, the polar flagellum with hook and rod was shed into the culture medium without the basal rings. Similarly, hooks with attached rods were shed from nonflagellate mutants, and these structures also lacked the basal rings. The hook structure was purified from nonflagellated mutants and found to be composed of a 70,000-molecular-weight protein component.", "PMID": 457596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12744", "title": "Isolation, characterization, and in vitro assembly of the tetragonally arrayed layer of Bacillus sphaericus.", "content": "The tetragonally arranged cell wall layer (T-layer) of Bacillus sphaericus NTCC 9602 was isolated and characterized. Parallel studies were made on a spontaneous variant of the wild-type strain which had a T-layer subunit of altered molecular weight. A purification method for the T-layers was devised which involved separation of the cell walls from the cytoplasmic contents, urea dissociation of the T-layer from the cell walls, removal of soluble contaminants by differential centrifugation, and finally selective adsorption of uncleaved subunits to sacculi. The purified subunits retained the capacity to form an assembly in vitro with the same lattice parameters as that observed on whole cells or cell walls and could readsorb to the cell walls from which they had been extracted. Both the wild-type and the variant subunits behaved as single, homogeneous polypeptide chains. Carbohydrate assay and isoelectric point determinations revealed that both subunit types were acidic glycoproteins. Values obtained for thebuoyant density, isoelectric point, and extinction coefficient differed minimally; major differences were observed in the molecular weight and the characterisitc width of cylinders formed by in vitro-assembled T-layer of the wild-type and variant. Assembled T-layer was subject to alkaline or acid dissociation and in acid titration dissociated at its isoelectric point.", "contents": "Isolation, characterization, and in vitro assembly of the tetragonally arrayed layer of Bacillus sphaericus. The tetragonally arranged cell wall layer (T-layer) of Bacillus sphaericus NTCC 9602 was isolated and characterized. Parallel studies were made on a spontaneous variant of the wild-type strain which had a T-layer subunit of altered molecular weight. A purification method for the T-layers was devised which involved separation of the cell walls from the cytoplasmic contents, urea dissociation of the T-layer from the cell walls, removal of soluble contaminants by differential centrifugation, and finally selective adsorption of uncleaved subunits to sacculi. The purified subunits retained the capacity to form an assembly in vitro with the same lattice parameters as that observed on whole cells or cell walls and could readsorb to the cell walls from which they had been extracted. Both the wild-type and the variant subunits behaved as single, homogeneous polypeptide chains. Carbohydrate assay and isoelectric point determinations revealed that both subunit types were acidic glycoproteins. Values obtained for thebuoyant density, isoelectric point, and extinction coefficient differed minimally; major differences were observed in the molecular weight and the characterisitc width of cylinders formed by in vitro-assembled T-layer of the wild-type and variant. Assembled T-layer was subject to alkaline or acid dissociation and in acid titration dissociated at its isoelectric point.", "PMID": 457597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12745", "title": "Partial purification and some properties of the Staphylococcus aureus cytoplasmic nitrate reductase.", "content": "The cytoplasmic nitrate reductase in heme mutant H-14 of Staphylococcus aureus was partially purified by steps which included ammonium sulfate fractionation and chromatography on Bio-Gel A 1.5m and ion-exchange columns. The active fractions from the ion-exchange columns showed two forms of the enzyme upon electrophoresis in nondenaturing gels of polyacrylamide; these corresponded to proteins of R(f) 0.16 and 0.28. Each form contained a predominant polypeptide of molecular weight 140,000, as shown by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The R(f) 0.16 form contained another major polypeptide of molecular weight 57,000, but the R(f) 0.28 form contained several other polypeptides. The sedimentation properties of the enzyme were examined after partial purification on Bio-Gel A 1.5m. In sucrose gradients containing Triton X-100 the enzyme sedimented as a homogeneous peak with an estimated molecular weight of 225,000; without detergent a heterogeneous profile was observed of molecular weight greater than 250,000. Treatment of the enzyme with trypsin increased the specific activity, and the enzyme sedimented as a homogeneous peak in sucrose gradients without Triton X-100, with an estimated molecular weight of 202,000. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis indicated that trypsin treatment converted the polypeptide of molecular weight 140,000 to a polypeptide of molecular weight 112,000. We conclude that the cytoplasmic nitrate reductase of S. aureus has a large subunit of molecular weight 140,000, which can be modified by trypsin to a polypeptide of molecular weight 112,000 without loss of catalytic activity.", "contents": "Partial purification and some properties of the Staphylococcus aureus cytoplasmic nitrate reductase. The cytoplasmic nitrate reductase in heme mutant H-14 of Staphylococcus aureus was partially purified by steps which included ammonium sulfate fractionation and chromatography on Bio-Gel A 1.5m and ion-exchange columns. The active fractions from the ion-exchange columns showed two forms of the enzyme upon electrophoresis in nondenaturing gels of polyacrylamide; these corresponded to proteins of R(f) 0.16 and 0.28. Each form contained a predominant polypeptide of molecular weight 140,000, as shown by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The R(f) 0.16 form contained another major polypeptide of molecular weight 57,000, but the R(f) 0.28 form contained several other polypeptides. The sedimentation properties of the enzyme were examined after partial purification on Bio-Gel A 1.5m. In sucrose gradients containing Triton X-100 the enzyme sedimented as a homogeneous peak with an estimated molecular weight of 225,000; without detergent a heterogeneous profile was observed of molecular weight greater than 250,000. Treatment of the enzyme with trypsin increased the specific activity, and the enzyme sedimented as a homogeneous peak in sucrose gradients without Triton X-100, with an estimated molecular weight of 202,000. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis indicated that trypsin treatment converted the polypeptide of molecular weight 140,000 to a polypeptide of molecular weight 112,000. We conclude that the cytoplasmic nitrate reductase of S. aureus has a large subunit of molecular weight 140,000, which can be modified by trypsin to a polypeptide of molecular weight 112,000 without loss of catalytic activity.", "PMID": 457598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12746", "title": "Effect of alanine-containing dipeptides on germination of Bacillus thiaminolyticus spores.", "content": "Stereoisomeric alanylalanine (Ala-Ala) derivatives were examined for their effects on germination of Bacillus thiaminolyticus spores. L-Ala-L-Ala and L-Ala-glycine were effective in inducing germination, and their activities were completely inhibited by D-Ala. L-Ala-D-Ala and glycine-D-Ala competitively prevented L-Ala-induced germination. Sarcosine- or beta-Ala-containing L-alanyldipeptides and eight kinds of alanyltripeptides did not show any detectable effect on germinability or any inhibitory effect. No detectable amounts of Ala were found in germination exudates when alanylpeptides were incubated with spores. The ability of these peptides to induce or inhibit germination depends on their steric conformation and a certain distance between the primary amino group and the free carboxyl groups. Involvement of L-Ala dehydrogenase in the initiation of germination is unlikely because L-Ala-L-Ala was not a substrate and L-Ala-D-Ala was not an effective inhibitor of enzyme activity.", "contents": "Effect of alanine-containing dipeptides on germination of Bacillus thiaminolyticus spores. Stereoisomeric alanylalanine (Ala-Ala) derivatives were examined for their effects on germination of Bacillus thiaminolyticus spores. L-Ala-L-Ala and L-Ala-glycine were effective in inducing germination, and their activities were completely inhibited by D-Ala. L-Ala-D-Ala and glycine-D-Ala competitively prevented L-Ala-induced germination. Sarcosine- or beta-Ala-containing L-alanyldipeptides and eight kinds of alanyltripeptides did not show any detectable effect on germinability or any inhibitory effect. No detectable amounts of Ala were found in germination exudates when alanylpeptides were incubated with spores. The ability of these peptides to induce or inhibit germination depends on their steric conformation and a certain distance between the primary amino group and the free carboxyl groups. Involvement of L-Ala dehydrogenase in the initiation of germination is unlikely because L-Ala-L-Ala was not a substrate and L-Ala-D-Ala was not an effective inhibitor of enzyme activity.", "PMID": 457599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12747", "title": "Distribution of glycerophospholipid-cholesterol acyltransferase in selected bacterial species.", "content": "The distribution of glycerophospholipid-cholesterol acyltransferase in selected bacterial species was examined. Enzyme activity was demonstrated in cell-free growth media from all members of the family Vibrionaceae which were tested except Plesiomonas shigelloides. In each case, enzyme was produced in exponential to early stationary phase and was excluded from Sepharose 6B, indicating a complex of high molecular weight. In a limited survey of other families, Stahylococcus aureus was the only organism outside the Vibrionaceae which was shown to produce the enzyme. In this case, however, the enzyme exhibited much less activity against erythrocyte membranes and appeared to have a lower molecular weight. The reasons for these differences and the importance of the acyltransferase as a biochemical identification tool are discussed.", "contents": "Distribution of glycerophospholipid-cholesterol acyltransferase in selected bacterial species. The distribution of glycerophospholipid-cholesterol acyltransferase in selected bacterial species was examined. Enzyme activity was demonstrated in cell-free growth media from all members of the family Vibrionaceae which were tested except Plesiomonas shigelloides. In each case, enzyme was produced in exponential to early stationary phase and was excluded from Sepharose 6B, indicating a complex of high molecular weight. In a limited survey of other families, Stahylococcus aureus was the only organism outside the Vibrionaceae which was shown to produce the enzyme. In this case, however, the enzyme exhibited much less activity against erythrocyte membranes and appeared to have a lower molecular weight. The reasons for these differences and the importance of the acyltransferase as a biochemical identification tool are discussed.", "PMID": 457600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12748", "title": "R-plasmid-mediated chromosomal gene transfer in Agrobacterium tumefaciens.", "content": "Although several techniques are available for transferring the Ti plasmids from one strain of agrobacterium tumefaciens to another, there are no reproducible methods for analysis of chromosomal markers in this phytopathogen. The R plasmid, R68.45, is known to show chromosomal mobilizing ability in several bacterial genera including the closely related Rhizobia. R68.45 was transferred into the prototrophic A. tumefaciens strain 15955. Ten kanamycin-resistant transconjugant clones were tested for chromosomal mobilizing ability by mating with strain SA10, rifampin- and streptomycin-resistant histidine auxotroph of strain 15955. Of the 10 donor clones, 2 showed high chromosomal mobilizing ability. Between 1,000 and 2,000 His+ colony-forming units per ml were obtained, a value 10 to 20 times greater than can be accounted for by spontaneous reversion. Sequential recloning and matings resulted in the isolation of relatively stable donor cultures. Chromosome gene transfer is dependent upon the presence in the donor of R68.45. Donors lacking an R plasmid or harboring the closely related plasmid RP4 failed to yield His+ transconjugants. With strain SA11, a methionine auxotroph of strain SA10, coinheritance of histidine and methionine independence could be demonstrated. Approximately half of the transconjugants also inherited R68.45. These results indicate that A. tumefaciens 15955 is capable of undergoing host chromosomal genetic exchange.", "contents": "R-plasmid-mediated chromosomal gene transfer in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Although several techniques are available for transferring the Ti plasmids from one strain of agrobacterium tumefaciens to another, there are no reproducible methods for analysis of chromosomal markers in this phytopathogen. The R plasmid, R68.45, is known to show chromosomal mobilizing ability in several bacterial genera including the closely related Rhizobia. R68.45 was transferred into the prototrophic A. tumefaciens strain 15955. Ten kanamycin-resistant transconjugant clones were tested for chromosomal mobilizing ability by mating with strain SA10, rifampin- and streptomycin-resistant histidine auxotroph of strain 15955. Of the 10 donor clones, 2 showed high chromosomal mobilizing ability. Between 1,000 and 2,000 His+ colony-forming units per ml were obtained, a value 10 to 20 times greater than can be accounted for by spontaneous reversion. Sequential recloning and matings resulted in the isolation of relatively stable donor cultures. Chromosome gene transfer is dependent upon the presence in the donor of R68.45. Donors lacking an R plasmid or harboring the closely related plasmid RP4 failed to yield His+ transconjugants. With strain SA11, a methionine auxotroph of strain SA10, coinheritance of histidine and methionine independence could be demonstrated. Approximately half of the transconjugants also inherited R68.45. These results indicate that A. tumefaciens 15955 is capable of undergoing host chromosomal genetic exchange.", "PMID": 457601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12749", "title": "Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase from Pseudomonas oxalacticus.", "content": "Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase was purified by a rapid, facile procedure from formate-grown Pseudomonas oxalaticus. The electrophoretically homogeneous enzyme had specific activities of 1.9 mumol of CO2 fixed per min per mg of protein and 0.15 mumol of O2 consumed per min per mg of protein. The amino acid composition was similar to that of other bacterial sources of the enzyme. The molecular weights determined by sedimentation equilibrium and by gel filtration were 421,000 and 450,000, respectively. Upon sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis of enzyme purified under conditions which would limit proteolysis, two types of large (L) subunits and two types of small (S) subunits were observed with apparent molecular weights of 57,000, 55,000, 17,000 and 15,000. By densitometric scans at two different protein concentrations the stoichiometry of the total large to total small subunits was 1:1, implying an L6S6 structure. Electron micrographs of the enzyme revealed an unusual structure that was inconsistent with a cubical structure. The enzyme had an unusually high Km for ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (220 microM) and was strongly inhibited by 6-phosphogluconate in the ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase assay (Ki = 270 microM). One, 5, and 12 days after purification the enzyme was half-maximally activated at 0.13 microM, 0.23 mM, and 0.70 mM CO2, respectively, at saturating Mg2+. At saturating CO2, enzyme 1 day afer purification responded sigmoidally to Mg2+ and was half-maximally activated by 0.85 mM Mg2+ in the absence of 6-phosphogluconate (Hill coefficient, h = 2.0) and by 0.19 mM Mg2+ in the presence of mM 6-phosphogluconate (h = 1.7).", "contents": "Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase from Pseudomonas oxalacticus. Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase was purified by a rapid, facile procedure from formate-grown Pseudomonas oxalaticus. The electrophoretically homogeneous enzyme had specific activities of 1.9 mumol of CO2 fixed per min per mg of protein and 0.15 mumol of O2 consumed per min per mg of protein. The amino acid composition was similar to that of other bacterial sources of the enzyme. The molecular weights determined by sedimentation equilibrium and by gel filtration were 421,000 and 450,000, respectively. Upon sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis of enzyme purified under conditions which would limit proteolysis, two types of large (L) subunits and two types of small (S) subunits were observed with apparent molecular weights of 57,000, 55,000, 17,000 and 15,000. By densitometric scans at two different protein concentrations the stoichiometry of the total large to total small subunits was 1:1, implying an L6S6 structure. Electron micrographs of the enzyme revealed an unusual structure that was inconsistent with a cubical structure. The enzyme had an unusually high Km for ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (220 microM) and was strongly inhibited by 6-phosphogluconate in the ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase assay (Ki = 270 microM). One, 5, and 12 days after purification the enzyme was half-maximally activated at 0.13 microM, 0.23 mM, and 0.70 mM CO2, respectively, at saturating Mg2+. At saturating CO2, enzyme 1 day afer purification responded sigmoidally to Mg2+ and was half-maximally activated by 0.85 mM Mg2+ in the absence of 6-phosphogluconate (Hill coefficient, h = 2.0) and by 0.19 mM Mg2+ in the presence of mM 6-phosphogluconate (h = 1.7).", "PMID": 457602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12750", "title": "Amylooligosaccharides from Mycobacterium smegmatis.", "content": "In early stationary phase of growth, Mycobacterium smegmatis cultures accumulate amylooligosaccharides (alpha 1 leads to 4-glucooligosaccharides) up to the undecasaccharide. Although M. smegmatis also makes an acylated polymethylpolysaccharide that is predominantly and alpha 1 leads to 4-glucan, we conclude that these oligosaccharides are precursors of glycogen rather than lopopolysaccharide.", "contents": "Amylooligosaccharides from Mycobacterium smegmatis. In early stationary phase of growth, Mycobacterium smegmatis cultures accumulate amylooligosaccharides (alpha 1 leads to 4-glucooligosaccharides) up to the undecasaccharide. Although M. smegmatis also makes an acylated polymethylpolysaccharide that is predominantly and alpha 1 leads to 4-glucan, we conclude that these oligosaccharides are precursors of glycogen rather than lopopolysaccharide.", "PMID": 457603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12751", "title": "General transduction in Rhizobium meliloti by a thermosensitive mutant of bacteriophage DF2.", "content": "A simiplified version of bacteriophage DF2 transduction, using the thermosensitive mutant DF2tsC, is described. The transduction frequencies of Rhizobium meliloti markers by DF1tsC are of about 10(-6) or higher. The development of transductants at 34 degrees C does not require the addition of antiserum for phage neutralization.", "contents": "General transduction in Rhizobium meliloti by a thermosensitive mutant of bacteriophage DF2. A simiplified version of bacteriophage DF2 transduction, using the thermosensitive mutant DF2tsC, is described. The transduction frequencies of Rhizobium meliloti markers by DF1tsC are of about 10(-6) or higher. The development of transductants at 34 degrees C does not require the addition of antiserum for phage neutralization.", "PMID": 457604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12752", "title": "Pseudomonas cepacia mutants blocked in the direct oxidative pathway of glucose degradation.", "content": "Glucose dehydrogenase-deficient strains of Pseudomonas cepacia grew normally with glucose as carbon source, indicating that the direct pathway of glucose oxidation does not play an essential role in this bacterium.", "contents": "Pseudomonas cepacia mutants blocked in the direct oxidative pathway of glucose degradation. Glucose dehydrogenase-deficient strains of Pseudomonas cepacia grew normally with glucose as carbon source, indicating that the direct pathway of glucose oxidation does not play an essential role in this bacterium.", "PMID": 457605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12753", "title": "Distribution of the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system in fermentative bacteria.", "content": "A number of selected fermentative bacteria were surveyed for the presence of the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system, with particular attention to those organisms which ferment glucose by pathways other than the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway. The phosphoenolpyruvate:glusoe phosphotransferase system was found in all homofermentative lactic acid bacteria tested that ferment glucose via the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway, but in none of a group of heterofermentative species of Lactobacillus or Leuconostoc, which ferment glucose via the phosphoketolase pathway. A phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system was also absent in Zymomonas mobilis, which ferments glucose via an anaerobic Entner-Doudoroff pathway. It thus appears that the phosphotransferase mode of glucose transport is limited to bacteria with the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas mode of glucose fermentation.", "contents": "Distribution of the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system in fermentative bacteria. A number of selected fermentative bacteria were surveyed for the presence of the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system, with particular attention to those organisms which ferment glucose by pathways other than the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway. The phosphoenolpyruvate:glusoe phosphotransferase system was found in all homofermentative lactic acid bacteria tested that ferment glucose via the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway, but in none of a group of heterofermentative species of Lactobacillus or Leuconostoc, which ferment glucose via the phosphoketolase pathway. A phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system was also absent in Zymomonas mobilis, which ferments glucose via an anaerobic Entner-Doudoroff pathway. It thus appears that the phosphotransferase mode of glucose transport is limited to bacteria with the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas mode of glucose fermentation.", "PMID": 457606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12754", "title": "Lipid and lipopolysaccharide composition of Acholeplasma oculi.", "content": "The total lipid content of Acholeplasma oculi comprises 13.3% of the dry weight of the organism and is about equally distributed between the neutral lipids plus glycolipids and the phospholipids. The phospholipids were identified as phosphatidyl glycerol and diphosphatidyl glycerol. The glycolipid fraction contained O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-2,3-diacyl glycerol and O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 2)-O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-2,3-diacyl glycerol. The neutral lipid contained pigmented carotenoids. Hot aqueous phenol extraction of lipid-extracted whole cells yielded a polymeric carbohydrate comprising 2.3% of the dry weight of the organism. The A. oculi lipopolysaccharide was found to contain only neutral sugars and no amino sugar, in contrast to other acholeplasmas. The neutral sugars consisted of fucose, galactose, and glucose in a ratio of 2:19:3.", "contents": "Lipid and lipopolysaccharide composition of Acholeplasma oculi. The total lipid content of Acholeplasma oculi comprises 13.3% of the dry weight of the organism and is about equally distributed between the neutral lipids plus glycolipids and the phospholipids. The phospholipids were identified as phosphatidyl glycerol and diphosphatidyl glycerol. The glycolipid fraction contained O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-2,3-diacyl glycerol and O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 2)-O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 leads to 1)-2,3-diacyl glycerol. The neutral lipid contained pigmented carotenoids. Hot aqueous phenol extraction of lipid-extracted whole cells yielded a polymeric carbohydrate comprising 2.3% of the dry weight of the organism. The A. oculi lipopolysaccharide was found to contain only neutral sugars and no amino sugar, in contrast to other acholeplasmas. The neutral sugars consisted of fucose, galactose, and glucose in a ratio of 2:19:3.", "PMID": 457607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12755", "title": "Plasmids and transposable elements in Salmonella wien.", "content": "The plasmids from six clinical strains of Salmonella wien have been characterized. All the S. wien strains were found to carry three types of plasmids: an IncFI R-Tc Cm Km Ap (resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, and ampicillin) plasmid, either conjugative or nonconjugative, of large size (90 to 100 megadaltons); an R-Ap Su Sm (resistance to ampicillin, sulfonamide, and streptomycin) plasmid of 9 megadaltons; and a very small (1.4 megadaltons) cryptic plasmid. The characteristics of conjugative R plasmids, recombinant between F'lac pro and the FI nonconjugative plasmid, indicated that regions coding for the donor phenotype were present on this plasmid. The molecular and genetic features of the R plasmids were very close to those described for the R plasmids isolated from S. wien strains of different origin. This fact supported the hypothesis of a clonal distribution of this serotype in Algeria and Europe. The analysis used to identify transposable elements showed the presence of only TnA elements, which were located on both the R-Tc Cm Km Ap and R-Ap Su Sm plasmids. They contained the structural gene for a TEM-type beta-lactamase and had translocation properties analogous to those reported for other TnA's.", "contents": "Plasmids and transposable elements in Salmonella wien. The plasmids from six clinical strains of Salmonella wien have been characterized. All the S. wien strains were found to carry three types of plasmids: an IncFI R-Tc Cm Km Ap (resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, and ampicillin) plasmid, either conjugative or nonconjugative, of large size (90 to 100 megadaltons); an R-Ap Su Sm (resistance to ampicillin, sulfonamide, and streptomycin) plasmid of 9 megadaltons; and a very small (1.4 megadaltons) cryptic plasmid. The characteristics of conjugative R plasmids, recombinant between F'lac pro and the FI nonconjugative plasmid, indicated that regions coding for the donor phenotype were present on this plasmid. The molecular and genetic features of the R plasmids were very close to those described for the R plasmids isolated from S. wien strains of different origin. This fact supported the hypothesis of a clonal distribution of this serotype in Algeria and Europe. The analysis used to identify transposable elements showed the presence of only TnA elements, which were located on both the R-Tc Cm Km Ap and R-Ap Su Sm plasmids. They contained the structural gene for a TEM-type beta-lactamase and had translocation properties analogous to those reported for other TnA's.", "PMID": 457608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12756", "title": "Some effects of uncouplers and inhibitors on growth and electron transport in rumen bacteria.", "content": "Uncouplers and inhibitors of electron transport affected growth and electron transport of rumen bacteria in various ways. Selenomonas ruminantium was not affected by inhibitor and uncoupler concentrations which affected growth and electron transport of Bacteroides ruminicola, B. succinogenes, and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens. Inhibitors, when active, led to accumulation of reduced electron carriers before the site of action, but differences were found among organisms in the site of action of these inhibitors. Uncouplers reduced the glucose molar growth yields (Ygluc) of B. ruminicola, B. succinogenes, and B. fibrisolvens compared with those obtained without uncouplers. The extent of Ygluc reduction accompanying inhibitor exposure reflected electron transport chain structure. S. ruminantium appeared to obtain its adenosine 5'-triphosphate from substrate-level processes only. The other organisms studied appeared to obtain adenosine 5'-triphosphate both from substrate-level processes and from electron transport but differed in the amount of adenosine 5'-triphosphate obtained from glucose catabolism and in the proportions of adenosine 5'-triphosphate obtained from substrate-level reactions and electron transport.", "contents": "Some effects of uncouplers and inhibitors on growth and electron transport in rumen bacteria. Uncouplers and inhibitors of electron transport affected growth and electron transport of rumen bacteria in various ways. Selenomonas ruminantium was not affected by inhibitor and uncoupler concentrations which affected growth and electron transport of Bacteroides ruminicola, B. succinogenes, and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens. Inhibitors, when active, led to accumulation of reduced electron carriers before the site of action, but differences were found among organisms in the site of action of these inhibitors. Uncouplers reduced the glucose molar growth yields (Ygluc) of B. ruminicola, B. succinogenes, and B. fibrisolvens compared with those obtained without uncouplers. The extent of Ygluc reduction accompanying inhibitor exposure reflected electron transport chain structure. S. ruminantium appeared to obtain its adenosine 5'-triphosphate from substrate-level processes only. The other organisms studied appeared to obtain adenosine 5'-triphosphate both from substrate-level processes and from electron transport but differed in the amount of adenosine 5'-triphosphate obtained from glucose catabolism and in the proportions of adenosine 5'-triphosphate obtained from substrate-level reactions and electron transport.", "PMID": 457609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12757", "title": "Negative control of octopine degradation and transfer genes of octopine Ti plasmids in Agrobacterium tumefaciens.", "content": "The regulatory system that controls the expression of the Ti plasmid-borne octopine degradation (uad) and transfer (tra) genes in Agrobacterium tumefaciens was studied. A deletion mutant derived from the cointegrate plasmid R702::Ti-B6S3 was isolated, which was compatible with a wild-type Ti plasmid and which had retained the uad genes. By means of this mutant plasmid pAL116, it was possible to make cells diploid for the uad genes. pAL116 was introduced into Rec- strains that contained different types of regulation mutants for the uad and tra genes. The repression pattern that was found in this complementation analysis indicated that the uad and tra operons are controlled by a common repressor system. Several results indicated that there may be additional transcriptional relations between both operons. The corresponding genes of the non-tumorigenic octopine plasmid pAt-AG60 appeared to be controlled by a repressor related to that of the octopine Ti plasmid.", "contents": "Negative control of octopine degradation and transfer genes of octopine Ti plasmids in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The regulatory system that controls the expression of the Ti plasmid-borne octopine degradation (uad) and transfer (tra) genes in Agrobacterium tumefaciens was studied. A deletion mutant derived from the cointegrate plasmid R702::Ti-B6S3 was isolated, which was compatible with a wild-type Ti plasmid and which had retained the uad genes. By means of this mutant plasmid pAL116, it was possible to make cells diploid for the uad genes. pAL116 was introduced into Rec- strains that contained different types of regulation mutants for the uad and tra genes. The repression pattern that was found in this complementation analysis indicated that the uad and tra operons are controlled by a common repressor system. Several results indicated that there may be additional transcriptional relations between both operons. The corresponding genes of the non-tumorigenic octopine plasmid pAt-AG60 appeared to be controlled by a repressor related to that of the octopine Ti plasmid.", "PMID": 457610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12758", "title": "5-n-Alkylresorcinols from encysting Azotobacter vinelandii: isolation and characterization.", "content": "Azotobacter vinelandii was found to form novel lipid compounds when encystment was initiated by 0.2% beta-hydroxybutyrate. An examination of these compounds led to the isolation and characterization of 5-n-heneicosylresorcinol, 5-n-tricosylresorcinol, and their galactoside derivatives.", "contents": "5-n-Alkylresorcinols from encysting Azotobacter vinelandii: isolation and characterization. Azotobacter vinelandii was found to form novel lipid compounds when encystment was initiated by 0.2% beta-hydroxybutyrate. An examination of these compounds led to the isolation and characterization of 5-n-heneicosylresorcinol, 5-n-tricosylresorcinol, and their galactoside derivatives.", "PMID": 457611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12759", "title": "Response of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata to illumination and growth rate in a light-limited continuous culture.", "content": "Rhodopseudomonas capsulata was grown under anaerobic, photosynthetic conditions in a continuous culture device. Under light limitation, at a constant dilution rate, it was shown that cell composition, including photopigment (bacteriochlorophyll and carotenoids) and ribonucleic acid content, was not affected by incident light intensity; however, steady state culture density varied directly and linearly with light intensity. On the other hand, photopigment and ribonucleic acid levels were affected by growth rate regardless of light intensity. Additional experiments indicated a high apparent Ks for growth of R. capsulata with respect to light. These results were interpreted to mean that near the maximum growth rate (D = 0.45 h-1) some internal metabolic process became the limiting factor for growth, rather than the imposed energy limitation. A mathematical expression for the relation between steady-state culture density and dilution rate was derived and was found to adequately describe the data. A strong correlation was found between continuous cultures limited either by light or by a chemical energy source.", "contents": "Response of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata to illumination and growth rate in a light-limited continuous culture. Rhodopseudomonas capsulata was grown under anaerobic, photosynthetic conditions in a continuous culture device. Under light limitation, at a constant dilution rate, it was shown that cell composition, including photopigment (bacteriochlorophyll and carotenoids) and ribonucleic acid content, was not affected by incident light intensity; however, steady state culture density varied directly and linearly with light intensity. On the other hand, photopigment and ribonucleic acid levels were affected by growth rate regardless of light intensity. Additional experiments indicated a high apparent Ks for growth of R. capsulata with respect to light. These results were interpreted to mean that near the maximum growth rate (D = 0.45 h-1) some internal metabolic process became the limiting factor for growth, rather than the imposed energy limitation. A mathematical expression for the relation between steady-state culture density and dilution rate was derived and was found to adequately describe the data. A strong correlation was found between continuous cultures limited either by light or by a chemical energy source.", "PMID": 457612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12760", "title": "Host range conferred by the virulence-specifying plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens.", "content": "The host range of Agrobacterium tumefaciens 1D1109, known to induce crown gall only on grapevine (Vitis spp.), was extended to include many plant species by transferring a tumor-inducing plasmid (pTi) from strain 1D1, a broad-host-range pathogen. The pTi plasmid was mobilized by the conjugative plasmid pRK2, which was inserted into 1D1 by mating with Escherichia coli J53(pRK2). The resulting transconjugants were screened for their ability to induce crown gall tumors on hosts other than grapevine by inoculation into sunflower. Transconjugants that were virulent on sunflower were then tested on 36 different host plants and compared with host-limited strain 1D1109 and the donor strain. Two transconjugants induced tumors on the same 28 plant species as those of the original plasmid donor 1D1(pRK2) (pTi). These results show that pRK2 promoted transfer of the pTi plasmid and suggest that the pTi plasmid rather than the A. tumefaciens chromosome determined the host range of the pathogen. Insertion of pRK2 alone did not extend the host range of strain 1D1109. Insertion of pS-a into A. tumefaciens 1D1 by mating with E. coli J53-1 (pS-a) resulted in the concomitant loss of pTi and virulence. There appears to be incompatibility between pTi and pS-a.", "contents": "Host range conferred by the virulence-specifying plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The host range of Agrobacterium tumefaciens 1D1109, known to induce crown gall only on grapevine (Vitis spp.), was extended to include many plant species by transferring a tumor-inducing plasmid (pTi) from strain 1D1, a broad-host-range pathogen. The pTi plasmid was mobilized by the conjugative plasmid pRK2, which was inserted into 1D1 by mating with Escherichia coli J53(pRK2). The resulting transconjugants were screened for their ability to induce crown gall tumors on hosts other than grapevine by inoculation into sunflower. Transconjugants that were virulent on sunflower were then tested on 36 different host plants and compared with host-limited strain 1D1109 and the donor strain. Two transconjugants induced tumors on the same 28 plant species as those of the original plasmid donor 1D1(pRK2) (pTi). These results show that pRK2 promoted transfer of the pTi plasmid and suggest that the pTi plasmid rather than the A. tumefaciens chromosome determined the host range of the pathogen. Insertion of pRK2 alone did not extend the host range of strain 1D1109. Insertion of pS-a into A. tumefaciens 1D1 by mating with E. coli J53-1 (pS-a) resulted in the concomitant loss of pTi and virulence. There appears to be incompatibility between pTi and pS-a.", "PMID": 457613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12761", "title": "Phosphate-limited culture of Azotobacter vinelandii.", "content": "Batch cultures of Azotobacter vinelandii grown in phosphate-deficient media were compared with control cultures grown in phosphate-sufficient media. Phosphate limitation was assessed by total cell yield and by growth kinetics. Although cell protein, nucleic acids, and early growth rate were unaffected by phosphate deficiency, cell wall structure, oxygen uptake, and cell viability were significantly affected. Also, phosphate-limited cells contained much larger amounts of poly-beta-hydroxybutyric acid but lower adenylate nucleotide energy charge than did control cells. The ratio of adenosine 5'-triphosphate to adenosine 5'-diphosphate was much lower in phosphate-deficient cells. The data indicate a substrate saving choice of three metabolic pathways available to this organism under different growth conditions.", "contents": "Phosphate-limited culture of Azotobacter vinelandii. Batch cultures of Azotobacter vinelandii grown in phosphate-deficient media were compared with control cultures grown in phosphate-sufficient media. Phosphate limitation was assessed by total cell yield and by growth kinetics. Although cell protein, nucleic acids, and early growth rate were unaffected by phosphate deficiency, cell wall structure, oxygen uptake, and cell viability were significantly affected. Also, phosphate-limited cells contained much larger amounts of poly-beta-hydroxybutyric acid but lower adenylate nucleotide energy charge than did control cells. The ratio of adenosine 5'-triphosphate to adenosine 5'-diphosphate was much lower in phosphate-deficient cells. The data indicate a substrate saving choice of three metabolic pathways available to this organism under different growth conditions.", "PMID": 457614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12762", "title": "Developmental regulation of invertase isozymes in Fusarium oxysporum.", "content": "Fusarium invertase has two isozymes; one is developmentally regulated, whereas the other exists throughout the developmental stages of Fusarium.", "contents": "Developmental regulation of invertase isozymes in Fusarium oxysporum. Fusarium invertase has two isozymes; one is developmentally regulated, whereas the other exists throughout the developmental stages of Fusarium.", "PMID": 457615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12763", "title": "Adenine inhibition of the synthesis of photosynthetic membranes in the chloroplast of Scenedesmus obliquus grown in the dark.", "content": "In the presence of adenine, heterotrophically grown Scenedesmus obliquus lost most of its photosynthetic membranes. The rudimentary membranes appeared to be intact both functionally and morphologically.", "contents": "Adenine inhibition of the synthesis of photosynthetic membranes in the chloroplast of Scenedesmus obliquus grown in the dark. In the presence of adenine, heterotrophically grown Scenedesmus obliquus lost most of its photosynthetic membranes. The rudimentary membranes appeared to be intact both functionally and morphologically.", "PMID": 457616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12764", "title": "Psychosis and water intoxication.", "content": "Three cases of psychosis, polydipsia, and water intoxication are presented as examples of a syndrome that is potentially unrecognized in psychiatric settings. Diagnostic and etiologic considerations, with particular attention to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), are discussed through a review of relevant literature. A schema for a routine psychiatric evaluation is described that will minimize overlooking this association of psychosis and disturbed water balance.", "contents": "Psychosis and water intoxication. Three cases of psychosis, polydipsia, and water intoxication are presented as examples of a syndrome that is potentially unrecognized in psychiatric settings. Diagnostic and etiologic considerations, with particular attention to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), are discussed through a review of relevant literature. A schema for a routine psychiatric evaluation is described that will minimize overlooking this association of psychosis and disturbed water balance.", "PMID": 457618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12765", "title": "Marriage and midlife: the impact of social change.", "content": "This paper considers the impact of social change on marriage in the midlife period. Issues which ordinarily require adaptation in midlife e.g., awareness of the finiteness of time, the limits of options and the necessity to reassess goals and deal with losses are affected by societal changes. These changes include increased numbers of dual career families and a decreased birth rate. Marital partners must integrate these changes into their lives. The process of adaptation may be stressful and result in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, somatic complaints of sexual problems. Illustrative clinical examples and treatment approaches are provided.", "contents": "Marriage and midlife: the impact of social change. This paper considers the impact of social change on marriage in the midlife period. Issues which ordinarily require adaptation in midlife e.g., awareness of the finiteness of time, the limits of options and the necessity to reassess goals and deal with losses are affected by societal changes. These changes include increased numbers of dual career families and a decreased birth rate. Marital partners must integrate these changes into their lives. The process of adaptation may be stressful and result in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, somatic complaints of sexual problems. Illustrative clinical examples and treatment approaches are provided.", "PMID": 457619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12766", "title": "Physical restraint and the nonpsychotic patient: clinical and legal perspectives.", "content": "Recent legal challenges to the use of therapeutic seclusion in the treatment of the mentally ill have forced psychiatrists to defend this practice in court. The clinical characteristics of 10 nonpsychotic inpatients who required restraint are reviewed. These patients are characterized by intense labile affect, impulsive, manipulative behavior and transient micropsychotic episodes in the context of immature personality patterns suggestive of the borderline syndrome. Restraint was precipitated by transient micropsychotic episodes or impulsive behavior during sustained regression. Physical control in these cases is required to defend the social milieu more often than to prevent injury to self or others. The legal implications of these clinical findings are discussed.", "contents": "Physical restraint and the nonpsychotic patient: clinical and legal perspectives. Recent legal challenges to the use of therapeutic seclusion in the treatment of the mentally ill have forced psychiatrists to defend this practice in court. The clinical characteristics of 10 nonpsychotic inpatients who required restraint are reviewed. These patients are characterized by intense labile affect, impulsive, manipulative behavior and transient micropsychotic episodes in the context of immature personality patterns suggestive of the borderline syndrome. Restraint was precipitated by transient micropsychotic episodes or impulsive behavior during sustained regression. Physical control in these cases is required to defend the social milieu more often than to prevent injury to self or others. The legal implications of these clinical findings are discussed.", "PMID": 457620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12767", "title": "Manic depressive illness and EEG abnormalities.", "content": "In evaluating 40 manic-depressive (bipolar) patients who had clinical electroencephalograms, there was a significant relationship between abnormal EEG findings and a negative family history for affective disorder when a comparison was made between patients with various classes of family history.", "contents": "Manic depressive illness and EEG abnormalities. In evaluating 40 manic-depressive (bipolar) patients who had clinical electroencephalograms, there was a significant relationship between abnormal EEG findings and a negative family history for affective disorder when a comparison was made between patients with various classes of family history.", "PMID": 457621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12768", "title": "Marital therapy with borderline patients: is it beneficial?", "content": "Marital therapy has developed techniques which do not, for the most part, rely on the individual psychiatric diagnosis of the 2 partners. When both spouses suffer from Borderline personality disorders, the standard techniques do not seem to apply, are difficult to put into effect and the results of therapy are poor. The authors illustrate their experience with the description of a 3 month trial of marital therapy involving a borderline couple. The outcome suggests the need for careful individual and interactional diagnosis prior to marital therapy. Specific psychotherapeutic techniques should be tested for use with Borderline marriage partners.", "contents": "Marital therapy with borderline patients: is it beneficial? Marital therapy has developed techniques which do not, for the most part, rely on the individual psychiatric diagnosis of the 2 partners. When both spouses suffer from Borderline personality disorders, the standard techniques do not seem to apply, are difficult to put into effect and the results of therapy are poor. The authors illustrate their experience with the description of a 3 month trial of marital therapy involving a borderline couple. The outcome suggests the need for careful individual and interactional diagnosis prior to marital therapy. Specific psychotherapeutic techniques should be tested for use with Borderline marriage partners.", "PMID": 457622} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12769", "title": "Prosopagnosia and the Capgras syndrome.", "content": "The Capgras syndrome is an unusual psychiatric disorder which has attracted much attention in recent years because of its striking nature and controversial etiology and pathogenesis. The question of whether some cases of Capgras syndrome are an expression of a perceptual disorder of facial recognition, i.e., prosopagnosia, is addressed in this report. Careful testing for a possible prosopagnosia revealed that in 2 newly identified cases of Capgras syndrome, the deficit was present. A deficit of facial recognition could not be appreciably detected in a group of normal female and schizophrenic controls.", "contents": "Prosopagnosia and the Capgras syndrome. The Capgras syndrome is an unusual psychiatric disorder which has attracted much attention in recent years because of its striking nature and controversial etiology and pathogenesis. The question of whether some cases of Capgras syndrome are an expression of a perceptual disorder of facial recognition, i.e., prosopagnosia, is addressed in this report. Careful testing for a possible prosopagnosia revealed that in 2 newly identified cases of Capgras syndrome, the deficit was present. A deficit of facial recognition could not be appreciably detected in a group of normal female and schizophrenic controls.", "PMID": 457623} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12770", "title": "Process of iodination of thyroglobulin and its maturation. I. Properties and distribution of thyroglobulin labeled with radioiodine in pig thyroid slices.", "content": "Pig thyroid slices were incubated with Na131I and the 17--19S 131I-labeled thyroglobulin isolated was subjected to dissociation with 0.3 mM sodium dodecyl sulphate SDS) on sucrose density gradient centrifugation and to iodoamino acid analysis. During the incubation, initially dissociable thyroglobulin was gradually altered to 0.3 mM SDS-resistant species with increasing incorporation of iodine. Microsome-bound, poorly iodinated thyroglobulin and preformed thyroglobulin were chemically iodinated and then subjected to analysis of dissociability and iodoamino acid contents with newly incorporated iodine. The results indicated that the behavior of the former thyroglobulin resembled that of 131I-thyroglobulin obtained from the slices. Then, thyroid slices were incubated for 3 min with Na131I and 3H-leucine with or without 10-min chase incubation. The sucrose density gradient centrifugation patterns of 131I and 3H-radioactivity of cytoplasmic extracts indicated that 131I-thyroglobulin is contained in particulates, especially in vesicles with low density(d=1.12) and that some of them are released into the soluble fraction within 10 min. The vesicles contained peroxidase and NADH-cytochrome c reductase, and are probably exocytotic vesicles in the apical area of cytoplasm of follicular cells. No positive evidence was obtained that plasma membranes participate in the iodination of thyroglobulin under the present experimental conditions. These results suggest that, in the incubation of thyroid slices, iodine atoms are preferentially incorporated into newly synthesized, less iodinated thyroglobulin, rather than preformed thyroglobulin, and that the iodination occurs, at least to a certain degree, in apical vesicles before the thyroglobulin is secreted into the colloid lumen.", "contents": "Process of iodination of thyroglobulin and its maturation. I. Properties and distribution of thyroglobulin labeled with radioiodine in pig thyroid slices. Pig thyroid slices were incubated with Na131I and the 17--19S 131I-labeled thyroglobulin isolated was subjected to dissociation with 0.3 mM sodium dodecyl sulphate SDS) on sucrose density gradient centrifugation and to iodoamino acid analysis. During the incubation, initially dissociable thyroglobulin was gradually altered to 0.3 mM SDS-resistant species with increasing incorporation of iodine. Microsome-bound, poorly iodinated thyroglobulin and preformed thyroglobulin were chemically iodinated and then subjected to analysis of dissociability and iodoamino acid contents with newly incorporated iodine. The results indicated that the behavior of the former thyroglobulin resembled that of 131I-thyroglobulin obtained from the slices. Then, thyroid slices were incubated for 3 min with Na131I and 3H-leucine with or without 10-min chase incubation. The sucrose density gradient centrifugation patterns of 131I and 3H-radioactivity of cytoplasmic extracts indicated that 131I-thyroglobulin is contained in particulates, especially in vesicles with low density(d=1.12) and that some of them are released into the soluble fraction within 10 min. The vesicles contained peroxidase and NADH-cytochrome c reductase, and are probably exocytotic vesicles in the apical area of cytoplasm of follicular cells. No positive evidence was obtained that plasma membranes participate in the iodination of thyroglobulin under the present experimental conditions. These results suggest that, in the incubation of thyroid slices, iodine atoms are preferentially incorporated into newly synthesized, less iodinated thyroglobulin, rather than preformed thyroglobulin, and that the iodination occurs, at least to a certain degree, in apical vesicles before the thyroglobulin is secreted into the colloid lumen.", "PMID": 457625} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12771", "title": "Purification and some properties of rabbit C1r.", "content": "C1r, an activated subcomponent of the first component of the complement system, was highly purified from rabbit serum by affinity chromatography on IgG-Sepharose 6B followed by column chromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50. The C1r thus purified had a molecular weight of 105,000, consisting of two polypeptide chains connected by disulfide bonds; the molecular weights of the chains were 60,000 and 45,000. The C1r was found to reconstitute C1 complex when it reacted with rabbit C1q and C1s in the presence of Ca2+, since C1s was able to bind to C1q bound on sensitized sheep erythrocytes only in the presence of C1r. On the other hand, and active C1s fragment derived by hydrolysis of the H chain without any loss of C1s activity [J. Biochem. 80, 1423--1427 (1976)] could not bind to C1q even in the presence of C1r. This result indicates that a part of the H chain of C1s not contributing to the structural integrity of an active site may be involved in the binding of C1s to C1r.", "contents": "Purification and some properties of rabbit C1r. C1r, an activated subcomponent of the first component of the complement system, was highly purified from rabbit serum by affinity chromatography on IgG-Sepharose 6B followed by column chromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50. The C1r thus purified had a molecular weight of 105,000, consisting of two polypeptide chains connected by disulfide bonds; the molecular weights of the chains were 60,000 and 45,000. The C1r was found to reconstitute C1 complex when it reacted with rabbit C1q and C1s in the presence of Ca2+, since C1s was able to bind to C1q bound on sensitized sheep erythrocytes only in the presence of C1r. On the other hand, and active C1s fragment derived by hydrolysis of the H chain without any loss of C1s activity [J. Biochem. 80, 1423--1427 (1976)] could not bind to C1q even in the presence of C1r. This result indicates that a part of the H chain of C1s not contributing to the structural integrity of an active site may be involved in the binding of C1s to C1r.", "PMID": 457626} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12772", "title": "Limited proteolysis of p-chloromercuribenzoate-dissociated hemoglobin by trypsin.", "content": "p-Chloromercuribenzoate-treated hemoglobin was digested by trypsin. The hydrolysate was subjected to gel-filtration on Bio-Gel P-4 and Sephadex G-50 columns, ion-exchange chromatography on CM-Sephadex and DE 52 columns, and paper electrophoresis. Peptides obtained by this procedure were analyzed for amino acid compositions and amino-terminal amino acid sequences. The results showed that p-chloromercuribenzoate-treated hemoglobin was hydrolyzed to a limited extent by trypsin at the bonds involving the carboxyl group of a lysine or arginine residue in planes A--E in the parent hemoglobin, which represent the external region of the parent tetramer. It is concluded therefore that the slight modification of hemoglobin enhances the susceptibility of the protein to proteases and that the hydrolysis of the modified protein is limited.", "contents": "Limited proteolysis of p-chloromercuribenzoate-dissociated hemoglobin by trypsin. p-Chloromercuribenzoate-treated hemoglobin was digested by trypsin. The hydrolysate was subjected to gel-filtration on Bio-Gel P-4 and Sephadex G-50 columns, ion-exchange chromatography on CM-Sephadex and DE 52 columns, and paper electrophoresis. Peptides obtained by this procedure were analyzed for amino acid compositions and amino-terminal amino acid sequences. The results showed that p-chloromercuribenzoate-treated hemoglobin was hydrolyzed to a limited extent by trypsin at the bonds involving the carboxyl group of a lysine or arginine residue in planes A--E in the parent hemoglobin, which represent the external region of the parent tetramer. It is concluded therefore that the slight modification of hemoglobin enhances the susceptibility of the protein to proteases and that the hydrolysis of the modified protein is limited.", "PMID": 457629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12773", "title": "Partial purification and properties of citrate synthase from sea urchin eggs.", "content": "Citrate synthase [EC 4.1.3.7] was purified from sea urchin eggs about 14-fold with a 23% yield, based on the activity of the crude extract. The molecular weight of the enzyme was about 100,000 as determined by gel filtration. The optimum pH was about 7.8 in 100 mM Tris-HCl. The apparent Km values for acetyl-CoA and for oxaloacetate were 33 and 3.2 muM, respectively. Monovalent and divalent cations inhibited the enzyme. Iodoacetamide, pCMB, EDTA, NaF, and dithiothreitol did not affect the enzyme activity. Oxaloacetate protected the enzyme against heat denaturation. Among nucleotides, ATP was the most potent inhibitor of the enzyme. The inhibition by ATP was competitive with respect to acetyl-CoA and mixed with respect to oxaloacetate.", "contents": "Partial purification and properties of citrate synthase from sea urchin eggs. Citrate synthase [EC 4.1.3.7] was purified from sea urchin eggs about 14-fold with a 23% yield, based on the activity of the crude extract. The molecular weight of the enzyme was about 100,000 as determined by gel filtration. The optimum pH was about 7.8 in 100 mM Tris-HCl. The apparent Km values for acetyl-CoA and for oxaloacetate were 33 and 3.2 muM, respectively. Monovalent and divalent cations inhibited the enzyme. Iodoacetamide, pCMB, EDTA, NaF, and dithiothreitol did not affect the enzyme activity. Oxaloacetate protected the enzyme against heat denaturation. Among nucleotides, ATP was the most potent inhibitor of the enzyme. The inhibition by ATP was competitive with respect to acetyl-CoA and mixed with respect to oxaloacetate.", "PMID": 457631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12774", "title": "Comparison of carbohydrate-containing substances from non-calcified and calcified portions of bovine costal cartilage.", "content": "Carbohydrate-containing substances were extracted from non-calcified (NCC) and calcified (CC) portions of bovine costal cartilage with 0.5 M LaCl3 by the method of Mason and his co-workers, followed by dilution of the extract with 9 volumes of water. The precipitate formed on dilution yielded Fr. P, while Fr. S was obtained from the supernatant. Fr. P was separated into two subfractions by gel filtration on Sepharose 2B. The experimental results showed that Fr. P contained proteoglycans with different molecular sizes and compositions, while Fr. S contained proteoglycan, hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and glycogen. The present data suggest that in the proteoglycan of Fr. P, the relative content of chondroitin sulfate decreases with a concomitant increment in that of keratan sulfate on calcification. In addition, elevation of the ratio of chondroitin 4-sulfate to chondroitin 6-sulfate, together with a small increment of non-sulfated disaccharide units in the chondroitin sulfate chains appear to occur on calcification. The glycogen content in Fr. S diminished on calcification. The present observations suggest therefore that the remodeling of proteoglycan consumption of glycogen in bovine costal cartilage occur on calcification.", "contents": "Comparison of carbohydrate-containing substances from non-calcified and calcified portions of bovine costal cartilage. Carbohydrate-containing substances were extracted from non-calcified (NCC) and calcified (CC) portions of bovine costal cartilage with 0.5 M LaCl3 by the method of Mason and his co-workers, followed by dilution of the extract with 9 volumes of water. The precipitate formed on dilution yielded Fr. P, while Fr. S was obtained from the supernatant. Fr. P was separated into two subfractions by gel filtration on Sepharose 2B. The experimental results showed that Fr. P contained proteoglycans with different molecular sizes and compositions, while Fr. S contained proteoglycan, hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and glycogen. The present data suggest that in the proteoglycan of Fr. P, the relative content of chondroitin sulfate decreases with a concomitant increment in that of keratan sulfate on calcification. In addition, elevation of the ratio of chondroitin 4-sulfate to chondroitin 6-sulfate, together with a small increment of non-sulfated disaccharide units in the chondroitin sulfate chains appear to occur on calcification. The glycogen content in Fr. S diminished on calcification. The present observations suggest therefore that the remodeling of proteoglycan consumption of glycogen in bovine costal cartilage occur on calcification.", "PMID": 457632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12775", "title": "Activation of Sepharose with epichlorohydrin and subsequent immobilization of ligand for affinity adsorbent.", "content": "The optimal conditions for the activation of Sepharose by epichlorohydrin and subsequent immobilization of ligands were investigated. Under the optimal conditions for activation, namely, 30% Sepharose-5% epichlorohydrin-0.4 M NaOH, 40 degrees C, 2 h, the maximum amount of epoxy group was introduced into Sepharose with low cross-linking. The absorbents obtained by using N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, tri-N-acetylchitotriose, and glycoprotein as a ligand exhibited no nonspecific adsorption and good permeability for the high molecular substance to be purified, and were stable in an alkaline solution. Solanum tuberosum agglutinin was specifically adsorbed on a tri-N-acetylchitotriose-Sepharose column and was quantitatively recovered by elution with 0.2 M ammonia solution. Furthermore, the column could be repeatedly used under these conditions without reduction of its capacity.", "contents": "Activation of Sepharose with epichlorohydrin and subsequent immobilization of ligand for affinity adsorbent. The optimal conditions for the activation of Sepharose by epichlorohydrin and subsequent immobilization of ligands were investigated. Under the optimal conditions for activation, namely, 30% Sepharose-5% epichlorohydrin-0.4 M NaOH, 40 degrees C, 2 h, the maximum amount of epoxy group was introduced into Sepharose with low cross-linking. The absorbents obtained by using N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, tri-N-acetylchitotriose, and glycoprotein as a ligand exhibited no nonspecific adsorption and good permeability for the high molecular substance to be purified, and were stable in an alkaline solution. Solanum tuberosum agglutinin was specifically adsorbed on a tri-N-acetylchitotriose-Sepharose column and was quantitatively recovered by elution with 0.2 M ammonia solution. Furthermore, the column could be repeatedly used under these conditions without reduction of its capacity.", "PMID": 457633} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12776", "title": "Isolation and properties of a glycohydrolase specific for nicotinamide mononucleotide from Azotobacter vinelandii.", "content": "A glycohydrolase that catalyzes the irreversible conversion of NMN to nicotinamide and ribose 5-phosphate has been partially purified from a sonic extract of Azotobacter vinelandii. The enzyme is highly specific for NMN. NAD, NADP, nicotinic acid-adenine dinucleotide, nicotinamide riboside and alpha-NMN are not significantly hydrolyzed by this enzyme, nor do they compete with NMN. The enzyme also exhibits an absolute dependence on guanylic acid derivatives with following order of relative effectiveness: GTP, guanosine 5'-tetraphosphate greater than dGTP, GDP, 2'-GMP, 3'-GMP greater than GMP, dGMP. A heat-resistant, nondialyzable factor which could replace the GTP requirement was found in the sonic extract. The Ka for GTP and the Km for NMN in the presence of GTP at 1mm were calculated to be 0.025 mM and 4.5 mM respectively. GMP, dGMP, and dCMP were found to be effective inhibitors of the enzyme when 1 mM GTP was also present. The kinetic data suggest that the binding site for these mononucleotides is distinct from the active site or the GTP binding site. The ability of this enzyme to cleave NMN is suggestive of a metabolic role of the enzyme in selective conversion of NMN to nicotinamide, which, in turn, would be re-utilized by the cell as a precursor of NAD via nicotinic acid.", "contents": "Isolation and properties of a glycohydrolase specific for nicotinamide mononucleotide from Azotobacter vinelandii. A glycohydrolase that catalyzes the irreversible conversion of NMN to nicotinamide and ribose 5-phosphate has been partially purified from a sonic extract of Azotobacter vinelandii. The enzyme is highly specific for NMN. NAD, NADP, nicotinic acid-adenine dinucleotide, nicotinamide riboside and alpha-NMN are not significantly hydrolyzed by this enzyme, nor do they compete with NMN. The enzyme also exhibits an absolute dependence on guanylic acid derivatives with following order of relative effectiveness: GTP, guanosine 5'-tetraphosphate greater than dGTP, GDP, 2'-GMP, 3'-GMP greater than GMP, dGMP. A heat-resistant, nondialyzable factor which could replace the GTP requirement was found in the sonic extract. The Ka for GTP and the Km for NMN in the presence of GTP at 1mm were calculated to be 0.025 mM and 4.5 mM respectively. GMP, dGMP, and dCMP were found to be effective inhibitors of the enzyme when 1 mM GTP was also present. The kinetic data suggest that the binding site for these mononucleotides is distinct from the active site or the GTP binding site. The ability of this enzyme to cleave NMN is suggestive of a metabolic role of the enzyme in selective conversion of NMN to nicotinamide, which, in turn, would be re-utilized by the cell as a precursor of NAD via nicotinic acid.", "PMID": 457634} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12777", "title": "Purification and properties of pig liver kynureninase.", "content": "Kynureninase [L-kynurenine hydrolase, EC 3.7.1.3] was purified from pig liver by a procedure including DEAE-cellulose chromatography, hydroxyapatite chromatography, ammonium sulfate fractionation, DEAE-Bio Gel chromatography, Sephacryl S-200 gel filtration, kynurenine-Sepharose affinity chromatography, and Sephadex G-200 gel filtration. The enzyme was found to be homogeneous by the criterion of disc-gel electrophoresis. The enzyme has a molecular weight of about 100,000 and exhibits absorption maxima at 280 and 420 nm. The optimum pH and the isoelectric point of the enzyme are 8.5 and 5.0, respectively. The Michaelis constants were determined to be as follows: L-kynurenine, 7.7 X 10(-4) M; L-3-hydroxykynurenine, 1.3 X 10(-5) M; and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, 1.8 X 10(-6) M. L-3-Hydroxykynurenine is hydrolyzed more rapidly than L-kynurenine; the liver enzyme can be regarded as a 3-hydroxy-kynureninase.", "contents": "Purification and properties of pig liver kynureninase. Kynureninase [L-kynurenine hydrolase, EC 3.7.1.3] was purified from pig liver by a procedure including DEAE-cellulose chromatography, hydroxyapatite chromatography, ammonium sulfate fractionation, DEAE-Bio Gel chromatography, Sephacryl S-200 gel filtration, kynurenine-Sepharose affinity chromatography, and Sephadex G-200 gel filtration. The enzyme was found to be homogeneous by the criterion of disc-gel electrophoresis. The enzyme has a molecular weight of about 100,000 and exhibits absorption maxima at 280 and 420 nm. The optimum pH and the isoelectric point of the enzyme are 8.5 and 5.0, respectively. The Michaelis constants were determined to be as follows: L-kynurenine, 7.7 X 10(-4) M; L-3-hydroxykynurenine, 1.3 X 10(-5) M; and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, 1.8 X 10(-6) M. L-3-Hydroxykynurenine is hydrolyzed more rapidly than L-kynurenine; the liver enzyme can be regarded as a 3-hydroxy-kynureninase.", "PMID": 457635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12778", "title": "Correlation between circadian rhythms of polyamine synthesis and cell proliferation in rat liver.", "content": "In rats fed ad libitum, a marked circadian rhythm with a peak at night was observed in the hepatic level of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) [EC 4.1.1.17], the enzyme for the first step of polyamine synthesis. A similar rhythm was found in the hepatic content of putrescine, but not of spermidine or spermine. The mitotic activity of the liver also exhibited a clear rhythm with a peak in the daytime. The rhythms of both ODC and mitosis were generated by cyclic ingestion of proteinous food, since the peaks shifted when rats were meal-fed and both activities disappeared on starvation or protein deprivation. The close parallel between the rhythms suggested that synthesis of polyamine, especially that of putrescine, was a prerequisite for the rhythmic growth of liver. The dietary induction of hepatic ODC depended on the nutritive value of dietary protein; zein or gelatin was effective only when supplemented with limiting amino acids and there was a good correlation between the hepatic ODC level and the relative growth rate.", "contents": "Correlation between circadian rhythms of polyamine synthesis and cell proliferation in rat liver. In rats fed ad libitum, a marked circadian rhythm with a peak at night was observed in the hepatic level of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) [EC 4.1.1.17], the enzyme for the first step of polyamine synthesis. A similar rhythm was found in the hepatic content of putrescine, but not of spermidine or spermine. The mitotic activity of the liver also exhibited a clear rhythm with a peak in the daytime. The rhythms of both ODC and mitosis were generated by cyclic ingestion of proteinous food, since the peaks shifted when rats were meal-fed and both activities disappeared on starvation or protein deprivation. The close parallel between the rhythms suggested that synthesis of polyamine, especially that of putrescine, was a prerequisite for the rhythmic growth of liver. The dietary induction of hepatic ODC depended on the nutritive value of dietary protein; zein or gelatin was effective only when supplemented with limiting amino acids and there was a good correlation between the hepatic ODC level and the relative growth rate.", "PMID": 457636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12779", "title": "Fluorescence studies on the interaction of dansyl-L-arginine with trypsin and trypsinogen.", "content": "The enhancement of fluorescence intensity of the dansyl group due to the formation of trypsin- or trypsinogen-dansyl-L-arginine complex was measured. Dansyl-L-arginine (L-DA) is a product in the trypsin-catalyzed hydrolysis of dansyl-L-arginine methylester. Trypsinogen was found to have only one binding site for L-DA with the dissociation constant of 6.9 x 10(-3)M, which is identical with the Michaelis constant for the trypsin-catalyzed hydrolysis of dansyl-L-arginine amide (Goto, S. and Hess, G.P., unpublished results). This finding and the results of X-ray diffraction studies (1,2) suggest that this binding site is located in the active site of the enzyme. On the other hand, the active enzyme, trypsin, was found to have at least two binding sites for L-DA. One is located in the active site. The dissociation constant for L-DA bound to this site is 6.7 x 10(-3)M. The other site is probably located in the allosteric site of trypsin. The dissociation constant for L-DA bound to this site is 4.8 x 10(-4)M.", "contents": "Fluorescence studies on the interaction of dansyl-L-arginine with trypsin and trypsinogen. The enhancement of fluorescence intensity of the dansyl group due to the formation of trypsin- or trypsinogen-dansyl-L-arginine complex was measured. Dansyl-L-arginine (L-DA) is a product in the trypsin-catalyzed hydrolysis of dansyl-L-arginine methylester. Trypsinogen was found to have only one binding site for L-DA with the dissociation constant of 6.9 x 10(-3)M, which is identical with the Michaelis constant for the trypsin-catalyzed hydrolysis of dansyl-L-arginine amide (Goto, S. and Hess, G.P., unpublished results). This finding and the results of X-ray diffraction studies (1,2) suggest that this binding site is located in the active site of the enzyme. On the other hand, the active enzyme, trypsin, was found to have at least two binding sites for L-DA. One is located in the active site. The dissociation constant for L-DA bound to this site is 6.7 x 10(-3)M. The other site is probably located in the allosteric site of trypsin. The dissociation constant for L-DA bound to this site is 4.8 x 10(-4)M.", "PMID": 457637} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12780", "title": "Novel properties of DNA polymerase beta with poly(rA).oligo(dT) template-primer.", "content": "Purified DNA polymerase beta of calf thymus can utilize poly(rA).oligo(dT) as efficiently as poly(dA).oligo(dT) or activated DNA as a template primer. The poly(rA).oligo(dT)-dependent activity of DNA polymerase beta was found to differ markedly from the DNA-dependent activity of the same enzyme (with either activated calf thymus DNA or poly(dA).(dT)10) in the following respects. 1) Poly(rA)-dependent activity was strongly inhibited by natural DNA from various sources or synthetic deoxypolymer duplexes at very low concentrations (less than 0.5 microgram/ml) at which the DNA-dependent activity was affected to a much smaller extent, if at all. 2) Poly(rA)-dependent activity was inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide more strongly than DNA-dependent activity measured at 37 degrees C, while it was resistant to this reagent at 26 degrees C. 3) The curves of the activity versus substrate concentration were sigmoidal in the poly(rA)-dependent reaction but hyperbolic in the activated DNA-dependent reaction. A kinetic study suggested that the association of beta-enzyme protomers may be required to copy the poly(rA) strand.", "contents": "Novel properties of DNA polymerase beta with poly(rA).oligo(dT) template-primer. Purified DNA polymerase beta of calf thymus can utilize poly(rA).oligo(dT) as efficiently as poly(dA).oligo(dT) or activated DNA as a template primer. The poly(rA).oligo(dT)-dependent activity of DNA polymerase beta was found to differ markedly from the DNA-dependent activity of the same enzyme (with either activated calf thymus DNA or poly(dA).(dT)10) in the following respects. 1) Poly(rA)-dependent activity was strongly inhibited by natural DNA from various sources or synthetic deoxypolymer duplexes at very low concentrations (less than 0.5 microgram/ml) at which the DNA-dependent activity was affected to a much smaller extent, if at all. 2) Poly(rA)-dependent activity was inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide more strongly than DNA-dependent activity measured at 37 degrees C, while it was resistant to this reagent at 26 degrees C. 3) The curves of the activity versus substrate concentration were sigmoidal in the poly(rA)-dependent reaction but hyperbolic in the activated DNA-dependent reaction. A kinetic study suggested that the association of beta-enzyme protomers may be required to copy the poly(rA) strand.", "PMID": 457638} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12781", "title": "Steroids as substrates for cholesterol: oxygen oxidoreductase, with special reference to 3beta-hydroxy bile acids.", "content": "Cholesterol: oxygen oxidoreductase [EC 1.1.3.6] from Brevibacterium sterolicum (ATCC 21387) was found to catalyze the oxidation of steroids such as sterols, steroid hormones, and bile acids having a free C-3beta hydroxyl group. However, the enzyme was inactive towards estradiol and estriol and had a weak activity towards steroids with functional groups adjacent to the 3beta-hydroxyl group on the steroid nucleus. Variation in the length of the side chain of 3beta-hydroxy steroids had no marked effect on the activity. 3beta-Hydroxy bile acids with delta4 or delta5 were oxidized to almost the same extent as cholesterol. In contrast, 3beta-hydroxy bile acids without delta4 or delta5 were oxidized only to the extent of 1.4--2.1%. 3 beta-Hydroxychol-4 or 5-enoic acid was oxidized in the same way as cholesterol. This enzyme is useful as a simple tool for identification of 3 beta-hydroxy groups of bile acids.", "contents": "Steroids as substrates for cholesterol: oxygen oxidoreductase, with special reference to 3beta-hydroxy bile acids. Cholesterol: oxygen oxidoreductase [EC 1.1.3.6] from Brevibacterium sterolicum (ATCC 21387) was found to catalyze the oxidation of steroids such as sterols, steroid hormones, and bile acids having a free C-3beta hydroxyl group. However, the enzyme was inactive towards estradiol and estriol and had a weak activity towards steroids with functional groups adjacent to the 3beta-hydroxyl group on the steroid nucleus. Variation in the length of the side chain of 3beta-hydroxy steroids had no marked effect on the activity. 3beta-Hydroxy bile acids with delta4 or delta5 were oxidized to almost the same extent as cholesterol. In contrast, 3beta-hydroxy bile acids without delta4 or delta5 were oxidized only to the extent of 1.4--2.1%. 3 beta-Hydroxychol-4 or 5-enoic acid was oxidized in the same way as cholesterol. This enzyme is useful as a simple tool for identification of 3 beta-hydroxy groups of bile acids.", "PMID": 457640} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12782", "title": "NADH: quinone oxidoreductase as a site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of marine Vibrio alginolyticus.", "content": "The site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of the marine bacterium, Vibrio alginolyticus, was investigated. The respiratory chain system contained ubiquinones (Q), menaquinones (MK), cytochromes b(560), c(553), d(630), and o(560). The membrane-bound and partially purified NADH dehydrogenase was stimulated 2- to 3-fold by the addition of 0.2 M Na+ or K+ and no specific requirement for Na+ was observed in this reaction step. The cytochrome oxidase showed no requirement for monovalent cations. The respiratory activity (NADH oxidase) of the membrane was lost on removal of the quinones, and the reincorporation of authentic Q-10 or MK-4 restored the activity. The rate of MK-4 reduction by NADH (menaquinone reductase) as measured using MK-4 incorporated membrane was activated by Na+, but only slightly by K+. The apparent Ka for Na+ was 78 mM for both menaguinone reductase and NADH oxidase. The requirement for Na+ of menaquinone reductase was greatly reduced in the presence of 0.2 M K+. Ubiquinone reductase as measured by using Q-10 incorporated membrane was also activated more effectively by Na+ than by K+. These results strongly suggested that the site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of marine V. alginolyticus was at the step of NADH; quinone oxidoreductase.", "contents": "NADH: quinone oxidoreductase as a site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of marine Vibrio alginolyticus. The site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of the marine bacterium, Vibrio alginolyticus, was investigated. The respiratory chain system contained ubiquinones (Q), menaquinones (MK), cytochromes b(560), c(553), d(630), and o(560). The membrane-bound and partially purified NADH dehydrogenase was stimulated 2- to 3-fold by the addition of 0.2 M Na+ or K+ and no specific requirement for Na+ was observed in this reaction step. The cytochrome oxidase showed no requirement for monovalent cations. The respiratory activity (NADH oxidase) of the membrane was lost on removal of the quinones, and the reincorporation of authentic Q-10 or MK-4 restored the activity. The rate of MK-4 reduction by NADH (menaquinone reductase) as measured using MK-4 incorporated membrane was activated by Na+, but only slightly by K+. The apparent Ka for Na+ was 78 mM for both menaguinone reductase and NADH oxidase. The requirement for Na+ of menaquinone reductase was greatly reduced in the presence of 0.2 M K+. Ubiquinone reductase as measured by using Q-10 incorporated membrane was also activated more effectively by Na+ than by K+. These results strongly suggested that the site of Na+-dependent activation in the respiratory chain of marine V. alginolyticus was at the step of NADH; quinone oxidoreductase.", "PMID": 457642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12783", "title": "Studies on glycosphingolipids of fresh-water bivalves. V. The structure of a novel ceramide octasaccharide containing mannose-6-phosphate found in the bivalve, Corbicula sandai.", "content": "A ceramide octasaccharide containing mannose-6-phosphate was isolated from the fresh-water bivalve Corbicula sandai by solvent fractionation, followed by two types of silicic acid column chromatography, and finally QAE-Sephadex column chromatography. The structural analysis involved the following steps. (a) Gas-liquid chromatography of the component sugars, fatty acids, and long-chain bases. (b) Degradation with HCl and HF to elucidate the sugar sequence. (c) Permethylation analysis coupled with GC-MS to identify the positions of the glycosidic linkages between the sugar units. (d) Chromium trioxide oxidation to determine the anomeric configuration. (e) Smith degradation to determine the site of linkage of the ethanolamine residue. The structure of this novel glycolipid was determined to be: 4-O-MeGalp(bets1 yields 3)-GalNAcp(beta1 yields3)Fucp(alpha1 yields 4)GlcNAcp(beta1 yields 2)Manp(alpha1 yields 3)[Xylp(alpha1 yields 2)][2'-aminoethylphosphoryl(yields 6)]Manp(beta1yields 4)Glcp(beta1 yields 1)ceramide. It is very interesting that fucose was found to be internally linked in this sugar chain. To our knowledge, this is the first example of internal fucose in a glycolipid. The ceramide moiety consisted of normal saturated fatty acids, among which stearic acid was pr", "contents": "Studies on glycosphingolipids of fresh-water bivalves. V. The structure of a novel ceramide octasaccharide containing mannose-6-phosphate found in the bivalve, Corbicula sandai. A ceramide octasaccharide containing mannose-6-phosphate was isolated from the fresh-water bivalve Corbicula sandai by solvent fractionation, followed by two types of silicic acid column chromatography, and finally QAE-Sephadex column chromatography. The structural analysis involved the following steps. (a) Gas-liquid chromatography of the component sugars, fatty acids, and long-chain bases. (b) Degradation with HCl and HF to elucidate the sugar sequence. (c) Permethylation analysis coupled with GC-MS to identify the positions of the glycosidic linkages between the sugar units. (d) Chromium trioxide oxidation to determine the anomeric configuration. (e) Smith degradation to determine the site of linkage of the ethanolamine residue. The structure of this novel glycolipid was determined to be: 4-O-MeGalp(bets1 yields 3)-GalNAcp(beta1 yields3)Fucp(alpha1 yields 4)GlcNAcp(beta1 yields 2)Manp(alpha1 yields 3)[Xylp(alpha1 yields 2)][2'-aminoethylphosphoryl(yields 6)]Manp(beta1yields 4)Glcp(beta1 yields 1)ceramide. It is very interesting that fucose was found to be internally linked in this sugar chain. To our knowledge, this is the first example of internal fucose in a glycolipid. The ceramide moiety consisted of normal saturated fatty acids, among which stearic acid was pr", "PMID": 457643} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12784", "title": "Androgenic regulation of N-acetyl beta-glucosaminidase activity in the submandibular glands of mice.", "content": "N-Acetyl beta-glucosaminidase [beta-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucoside acetylamido-deoxyglucohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.30] in the submandibular gland of mice was found to be androgen-dependent; the specific activities in males, females, and castrated males were 0.25, 0.11, and 0.11 unit/mg protein, respectively. The activities in females and castrated males were increased to the level of normal male mice by testosterone injection. Injections of progesterone and 17 beta-estradiol hardly affected the activity in males. In both males and females, the enzyme activity was detected in the convoluted tubular cells, not in acinous cells. The results of isoelectric focusing have shown that one enzyme having an isoelectric point of 9.0 is present in the glands of both sexes, indicating that the enzyme remains after castration and that the increases caused by testosterone represent the same molecular species. In addition, it was shown that the saliva from both sexes contained significant activity of N-acetyl beta-glucosaminidase, which also changed depending on the androgenic state of the animals. Most of the salivary activity was shown to originate from the submandibular gland, since the extirpation of this gland resulted in a significant decrease of the salivary activity.", "contents": "Androgenic regulation of N-acetyl beta-glucosaminidase activity in the submandibular glands of mice. N-Acetyl beta-glucosaminidase [beta-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucoside acetylamido-deoxyglucohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.30] in the submandibular gland of mice was found to be androgen-dependent; the specific activities in males, females, and castrated males were 0.25, 0.11, and 0.11 unit/mg protein, respectively. The activities in females and castrated males were increased to the level of normal male mice by testosterone injection. Injections of progesterone and 17 beta-estradiol hardly affected the activity in males. In both males and females, the enzyme activity was detected in the convoluted tubular cells, not in acinous cells. The results of isoelectric focusing have shown that one enzyme having an isoelectric point of 9.0 is present in the glands of both sexes, indicating that the enzyme remains after castration and that the increases caused by testosterone represent the same molecular species. In addition, it was shown that the saliva from both sexes contained significant activity of N-acetyl beta-glucosaminidase, which also changed depending on the androgenic state of the animals. Most of the salivary activity was shown to originate from the submandibular gland, since the extirpation of this gland resulted in a significant decrease of the salivary activity.", "PMID": 457644} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12785", "title": "Purification and properties of phosphoglycerate kinase from Thermus thermophilus strain HB8.", "content": "(1) A glycolytic enzyme, phosphoglycerate kinase [EC 2.7.2.3], was purified from cells of an extreme thermophile, Thermus thermophilus strain HB8. The enzyme was resistant to heat, and no loss of activity was observed after incubation for 10--20 min at 79 degrees C. (2) Catalytic properties such as pH optimum (pH 6--8.5), kinetic parameters (Km=0.28 mM for ATP, 1.79 mM for glycerate 3-phosphate), substrate specificity and inhibitors of the enzyme were investigated and compared with those of phosphoglycerate kinase from other sources. (3) The enzyme protein consists of a single polypeptide chain of molecular weight 44,600. The isoelectric point is 5.0 The amino acid composition of the enzyme was studied. The contents of ordered secondary structures were estimated to be 29% alpha-helix and 11% pleated sheet from the circular dichroic spectrum of the enzyme protein. (4) The fluorescence spectrum of the enzyme protein showed an emission maximum at 320 nm when excited at 280 nm. The quantum yield was 0.19. Tryptophyl fluorescence was not quenched, in contrast to the fluorescence reported for yeast phosphoglycerate kinase.", "contents": "Purification and properties of phosphoglycerate kinase from Thermus thermophilus strain HB8. (1) A glycolytic enzyme, phosphoglycerate kinase [EC 2.7.2.3], was purified from cells of an extreme thermophile, Thermus thermophilus strain HB8. The enzyme was resistant to heat, and no loss of activity was observed after incubation for 10--20 min at 79 degrees C. (2) Catalytic properties such as pH optimum (pH 6--8.5), kinetic parameters (Km=0.28 mM for ATP, 1.79 mM for glycerate 3-phosphate), substrate specificity and inhibitors of the enzyme were investigated and compared with those of phosphoglycerate kinase from other sources. (3) The enzyme protein consists of a single polypeptide chain of molecular weight 44,600. The isoelectric point is 5.0 The amino acid composition of the enzyme was studied. The contents of ordered secondary structures were estimated to be 29% alpha-helix and 11% pleated sheet from the circular dichroic spectrum of the enzyme protein. (4) The fluorescence spectrum of the enzyme protein showed an emission maximum at 320 nm when excited at 280 nm. The quantum yield was 0.19. Tryptophyl fluorescence was not quenched, in contrast to the fluorescence reported for yeast phosphoglycerate kinase.", "PMID": 457645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12786", "title": "Water-soluble lipoproteins from yolk granules in sea urchin eggs. II. Chemical composition.", "content": "The chemical composition of yolk lipoproteins (YLP-1, 2, and 3) was determined. YLP-1, 2, and 3 were quite similar as regards the chemical composition of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrate moieties. Each lipoprotein has an average dry weight composition of lipids (55--72%) and apo-lipoproteins (28--45%) containing protein, hexose, hexosamine, and sialic acid. In each lipoprotein, triacylglycerol is a major lipid component (70--83%), followed by phospholipid (8--16%), cholesterol (free and esterified, 8--10%), and free fatty acid (3--4%). Phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine account for 68--74% and 16--24% of the phospholipids, respectively. The fatty acid compositions of total lipids from each lipoprotein are quite similar, with a high degree of unsaturation (63--65%). The carbohydrate content of apolipoprotiens from each lipoprotein is remarkably high (27--31% of apo-lipoproteins) and their composition is very simple: mannose and glucosamine are major constituents in the polysaccharide moiety of each lipoprotein and sialic acid is all in the N-glycolyl form. The amino acid compositions of apo-lipoproteins are quite similar in YLP-1, 2, and 3, with high contents of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, serine, and leucine. Furthermore, a small amount of glycolipids is present in the yolk lipoproteins. They were separated into six components on TLC. All of them are resorcinol-positive, indicating the presence of sialoglycolipids.", "contents": "Water-soluble lipoproteins from yolk granules in sea urchin eggs. II. Chemical composition. The chemical composition of yolk lipoproteins (YLP-1, 2, and 3) was determined. YLP-1, 2, and 3 were quite similar as regards the chemical composition of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrate moieties. Each lipoprotein has an average dry weight composition of lipids (55--72%) and apo-lipoproteins (28--45%) containing protein, hexose, hexosamine, and sialic acid. In each lipoprotein, triacylglycerol is a major lipid component (70--83%), followed by phospholipid (8--16%), cholesterol (free and esterified, 8--10%), and free fatty acid (3--4%). Phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine account for 68--74% and 16--24% of the phospholipids, respectively. The fatty acid compositions of total lipids from each lipoprotein are quite similar, with a high degree of unsaturation (63--65%). The carbohydrate content of apolipoprotiens from each lipoprotein is remarkably high (27--31% of apo-lipoproteins) and their composition is very simple: mannose and glucosamine are major constituents in the polysaccharide moiety of each lipoprotein and sialic acid is all in the N-glycolyl form. The amino acid compositions of apo-lipoproteins are quite similar in YLP-1, 2, and 3, with high contents of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, serine, and leucine. Furthermore, a small amount of glycolipids is present in the yolk lipoproteins. They were separated into six components on TLC. All of them are resorcinol-positive, indicating the presence of sialoglycolipids.", "PMID": 457646} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12787", "title": "Post-mortem changes in skeletal muscle connectin.", "content": "Changes in connectin and elasticity of skeletal muscle were determined during post-mortem ageing. The amount of connectin decreased with increasing time of post-mortem storage whereas the rate of the decrease depended on the source of muscles. The loss in elasticity of muscle coincided well with the decrease in connectin contents. Electron microscopically, a network structure between the Z discs vanished when the amount of connectin fell to zero. We have concluded that the continuous net structure of connectin is responsible for about 30% of the total elasticity of living skeletal muscle and its degradtaion is responsible for post-mortem tenderization of meat.", "contents": "Post-mortem changes in skeletal muscle connectin. Changes in connectin and elasticity of skeletal muscle were determined during post-mortem ageing. The amount of connectin decreased with increasing time of post-mortem storage whereas the rate of the decrease depended on the source of muscles. The loss in elasticity of muscle coincided well with the decrease in connectin contents. Electron microscopically, a network structure between the Z discs vanished when the amount of connectin fell to zero. We have concluded that the continuous net structure of connectin is responsible for about 30% of the total elasticity of living skeletal muscle and its degradtaion is responsible for post-mortem tenderization of meat.", "PMID": 457647} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12788", "title": "Calcium sensitivy of foot muscle myosin from clam (Meretrix lusoria).", "content": "1. It was found that Mg-ATPase of clam foot myosin is strongly activated by calcium or strontium ions and is as sensitive to those divalent cations as the Mg-ATPase and superprecipitation of rabbit skeletal acto-clam foot myosin are. 2. It was also found that desensitization and resensitization of clam foot myosin result in the loss of superprecipitation activity with acto-desensitized myosin and in its recovery with acto-resensitized myosin, respectively. However, the ATP-ASE activity in the absence of calcium ions rises with acto-desensitized myosin and falls again with acto-resensitized myosin. 3. It is thus proposed that the primary role of the EDTA-light chain component in calcium regulation is to inhibit myosin-ATPase rather than to inhibit the actin-myosin interaction.", "contents": "Calcium sensitivy of foot muscle myosin from clam (Meretrix lusoria). 1. It was found that Mg-ATPase of clam foot myosin is strongly activated by calcium or strontium ions and is as sensitive to those divalent cations as the Mg-ATPase and superprecipitation of rabbit skeletal acto-clam foot myosin are. 2. It was also found that desensitization and resensitization of clam foot myosin result in the loss of superprecipitation activity with acto-desensitized myosin and in its recovery with acto-resensitized myosin, respectively. However, the ATP-ASE activity in the absence of calcium ions rises with acto-desensitized myosin and falls again with acto-resensitized myosin. 3. It is thus proposed that the primary role of the EDTA-light chain component in calcium regulation is to inhibit myosin-ATPase rather than to inhibit the actin-myosin interaction.", "PMID": 457648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12789", "title": "Difference in the mechanisms of poly(dT) synthesis by DNA polymerases beta and gamma.", "content": "Poly(dT) products which were synthesized depending on (rA)n . (dT)12-18 as a template . primer by mammalian DNA polymerases beta and gamma were analyzed by alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation. The size of the population of poly(dT) chains synthesized by DNA polymerase beta increased slowly and consistently during incubation up to at least 30 min. On the other hand, the product size with DNA polymerase gamma reached the final size (7 s) within 5 min and the number of products increased during further incubation. Comparison of product number per enzyme molecule suggests that DNA polymerase beta acts on multiple primers in a distributive fashion while DNA polymerase gamma completes poly(dT) chains of large size in a one-by-one fashion.", "contents": "Difference in the mechanisms of poly(dT) synthesis by DNA polymerases beta and gamma. Poly(dT) products which were synthesized depending on (rA)n . (dT)12-18 as a template . primer by mammalian DNA polymerases beta and gamma were analyzed by alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation. The size of the population of poly(dT) chains synthesized by DNA polymerase beta increased slowly and consistently during incubation up to at least 30 min. On the other hand, the product size with DNA polymerase gamma reached the final size (7 s) within 5 min and the number of products increased during further incubation. Comparison of product number per enzyme molecule suggests that DNA polymerase beta acts on multiple primers in a distributive fashion while DNA polymerase gamma completes poly(dT) chains of large size in a one-by-one fashion.", "PMID": 457649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12790", "title": "The Association of Biomedical Communications Directors.", "content": "The Association of Biomedical Communications Directors (ABCD) has recently completed the fifth in its series of surveys of biomedical communications units. The fourth survey, published in 1975, reported staffing patterns, salary data, degrees held, and a variety of other information from units directed by members of the ABCD in the United States and Canada. The current report covers similar data from the 1977-78 academic year and in addition includes information from units whose directors were not members of ABCD but who wished to cooperate in the survey.", "contents": "The Association of Biomedical Communications Directors. The Association of Biomedical Communications Directors (ABCD) has recently completed the fifth in its series of surveys of biomedical communications units. The fourth survey, published in 1975, reported staffing patterns, salary data, degrees held, and a variety of other information from units directed by members of the ABCD in the United States and Canada. The current report covers similar data from the 1977-78 academic year and in addition includes information from units whose directors were not members of ABCD but who wished to cooperate in the survey.", "PMID": 457652} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12791", "title": "Sequence-specific endonuclease Bgl I. Modification of lysine and arginine residues of the homogeneous enzyme.", "content": "The sequence-specific endonuclease Bgl I from Bacillus globigii (RUB561) has been purified to homogeneity as determined by denaturing polyacrylamide gel analysis. The active form of the enzyme is a single polypeptide with a molecular weight of 32,000. The enzyme requires Mg2+ in the reaction mixture and displays a broad pH and monovalent cation requirement. Bgl I is not sensitive to sulfhydryl reagents but was affected by reagents that modify lysine and arginine residues. When lysine residues were modified by pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, both binding and catalysis were diminished while modification of arginine residues by 2,3-butanedione inhibited the enzyme activity but had no effect on its binding properties.", "contents": "Sequence-specific endonuclease Bgl I. Modification of lysine and arginine residues of the homogeneous enzyme. The sequence-specific endonuclease Bgl I from Bacillus globigii (RUB561) has been purified to homogeneity as determined by denaturing polyacrylamide gel analysis. The active form of the enzyme is a single polypeptide with a molecular weight of 32,000. The enzyme requires Mg2+ in the reaction mixture and displays a broad pH and monovalent cation requirement. Bgl I is not sensitive to sulfhydryl reagents but was affected by reagents that modify lysine and arginine residues. When lysine residues were modified by pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, both binding and catalysis were diminished while modification of arginine residues by 2,3-butanedione inhibited the enzyme activity but had no effect on its binding properties.", "PMID": 457653} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12792", "title": "Purified eukaryotic initiation factor 2 from calf liver consists of two polypeptide chains of 48,000 and 38,000 daltons.", "content": "Eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2), which specifically binds Met-tRNAMetf and forms stable ternary complexes with GTP, has been purified from ribosomal salt wash proteins from calf liver. The purified factor exhibits only two polypeptide bands of Mr = 48,000 and 38,000 following electrophoresis in 15% polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Densitometric tracings show the two polypeptides are present in a molar ratio of 1:1. This suggests a Mr = 86,000 for the native enzyme, a value which agrees with the apparent molecular weight determined by physical methods. Less pure preparations of eIF-2 show additional polypeptide bands, including 50,000- and 46,000-dalton bands, all of which can be removed by further purification without affecting the activity of eIF-2.", "contents": "Purified eukaryotic initiation factor 2 from calf liver consists of two polypeptide chains of 48,000 and 38,000 daltons. Eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2), which specifically binds Met-tRNAMetf and forms stable ternary complexes with GTP, has been purified from ribosomal salt wash proteins from calf liver. The purified factor exhibits only two polypeptide bands of Mr = 48,000 and 38,000 following electrophoresis in 15% polyacrylamide gels in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Densitometric tracings show the two polypeptides are present in a molar ratio of 1:1. This suggests a Mr = 86,000 for the native enzyme, a value which agrees with the apparent molecular weight determined by physical methods. Less pure preparations of eIF-2 show additional polypeptide bands, including 50,000- and 46,000-dalton bands, all of which can be removed by further purification without affecting the activity of eIF-2.", "PMID": 457654} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12793", "title": "Differentiation of ob 17 preadipocytes to adipocytes. Effect of insulin on the levels of insulin receptors and on the transport of alpha-aminoisobutyrate.", "content": "Cells of a clonal cell line (ob 17) isolated from the epididymal fat pad of ob/ob mouse possess insulin receptors. Their number was increased 1.5-fold after growth arrest, with no significant change in the Kd values of the \"high affinity\" sites determined by extrapolation of the high affinity portion of the curvilinear Scatchard plots. With chronic insulin exposure for 3 to 11 days after confluence, ob 17 cells showed a decrease in insulin receptor concentrations from 8,000 to 1,600 high affinity sites/cell (Kd from 0.45 to 1.10(-9) M) while similar levels of \"low affinity\" sites were found (80,000 to 100,000 sites/cell; Kd from 10(-8) to 3 x 10(-8) M). The loss of the high affinity binding sites is accompanied by the disappearance of the stimulatory effect by insulin of alpha-aminoisobutyrate uptake. Therefore, in contrast to 3T3-L1 fibroblasts, the ob 17 cells present, in culture, a self-modulation of insulin receptors and a loss of insulin sensitivity after chronic exposure to insulin.", "contents": "Differentiation of ob 17 preadipocytes to adipocytes. Effect of insulin on the levels of insulin receptors and on the transport of alpha-aminoisobutyrate. Cells of a clonal cell line (ob 17) isolated from the epididymal fat pad of ob/ob mouse possess insulin receptors. Their number was increased 1.5-fold after growth arrest, with no significant change in the Kd values of the \"high affinity\" sites determined by extrapolation of the high affinity portion of the curvilinear Scatchard plots. With chronic insulin exposure for 3 to 11 days after confluence, ob 17 cells showed a decrease in insulin receptor concentrations from 8,000 to 1,600 high affinity sites/cell (Kd from 0.45 to 1.10(-9) M) while similar levels of \"low affinity\" sites were found (80,000 to 100,000 sites/cell; Kd from 10(-8) to 3 x 10(-8) M). The loss of the high affinity binding sites is accompanied by the disappearance of the stimulatory effect by insulin of alpha-aminoisobutyrate uptake. Therefore, in contrast to 3T3-L1 fibroblasts, the ob 17 cells present, in culture, a self-modulation of insulin receptors and a loss of insulin sensitivity after chronic exposure to insulin.", "PMID": 457655} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12794", "title": "Activation of adenylate cyclase by molybdate.", "content": "The effect of molybdate on adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1) in rat liver plasma membranes has been examined. The apparent K alpha for molybdate activation of the enzyme is 4.5 mM, and maximal, 7-fold stimulation is achieved at 50 mM. The observed increase in cAMP formation in the adenylate cyclase assay is not due to: (a) an inhibition of ATP hydrolysis; (b) a molybdate-catalyzed conversion of ATP to cAMP; (c) an inhibition of cAMP hydrolysis; or (d) an artifact in the isolation of cAMP formed in the reaction. Molybdate activation of adenylate cyclase is a general phenomenon exhibited by the enzyme in brain, cardiac, and renal tissue homogenates and in erythrocyte ghosts. However, like fluoride and guanyl-5'-yl imidodiphosphate (Gpp(NH)p), molybdate does not activate the soluble rat testicular adenylate cyclase. Molybdate is a reversible activator of adenylate cyclase. Activation is not due to an increase in ionic strength and is independent of the salt used to introduce molybdate. Molybdate does not activate adenylate cyclase previously stimulated with Gpp(NH)p or fluoride. At concentration greater than 20 mM, molybdate inhibits fluoride-stimulated adenylate cyclase, and at concentrations greater than 100 mM, molybdate stimulation of basal adenylate cyclase activity is diminished.", "contents": "Activation of adenylate cyclase by molybdate. The effect of molybdate on adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1) in rat liver plasma membranes has been examined. The apparent K alpha for molybdate activation of the enzyme is 4.5 mM, and maximal, 7-fold stimulation is achieved at 50 mM. The observed increase in cAMP formation in the adenylate cyclase assay is not due to: (a) an inhibition of ATP hydrolysis; (b) a molybdate-catalyzed conversion of ATP to cAMP; (c) an inhibition of cAMP hydrolysis; or (d) an artifact in the isolation of cAMP formed in the reaction. Molybdate activation of adenylate cyclase is a general phenomenon exhibited by the enzyme in brain, cardiac, and renal tissue homogenates and in erythrocyte ghosts. However, like fluoride and guanyl-5'-yl imidodiphosphate (Gpp(NH)p), molybdate does not activate the soluble rat testicular adenylate cyclase. Molybdate is a reversible activator of adenylate cyclase. Activation is not due to an increase in ionic strength and is independent of the salt used to introduce molybdate. Molybdate does not activate adenylate cyclase previously stimulated with Gpp(NH)p or fluoride. At concentration greater than 20 mM, molybdate inhibits fluoride-stimulated adenylate cyclase, and at concentrations greater than 100 mM, molybdate stimulation of basal adenylate cyclase activity is diminished.", "PMID": 457657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12795", "title": "Quantitation and localization of globin messenger RNA in rabbit reticulocyte lysate.", "content": "A sensitive and quantitative method is described for the determination of globin mRNA distribution in rabbit reticulocyte lysate. The method uses high resolution sucrose density gradient centrifugation followed by [5'-3H]polyuridylate hybridization to poly(A)-mRNA in gradient fractions. Polyadenylate, purified globin mRNA, and ribonuclease-treated lysate are used to standardize the hybridization assay. It is demonstrated that changes of mRNA and ribosomal distribution do not affect quantitation of the total mRNA localization and Met-tRNAf which suggest that the monitoring of Met-tRNAf binding alone may not be sufficient to assess the mechanisms of control which affect the initiation of protein synthesis.", "contents": "Quantitation and localization of globin messenger RNA in rabbit reticulocyte lysate. A sensitive and quantitative method is described for the determination of globin mRNA distribution in rabbit reticulocyte lysate. The method uses high resolution sucrose density gradient centrifugation followed by [5'-3H]polyuridylate hybridization to poly(A)-mRNA in gradient fractions. Polyadenylate, purified globin mRNA, and ribonuclease-treated lysate are used to standardize the hybridization assay. It is demonstrated that changes of mRNA and ribosomal distribution do not affect quantitation of the total mRNA localization and Met-tRNAf which suggest that the monitoring of Met-tRNAf binding alone may not be sufficient to assess the mechanisms of control which affect the initiation of protein synthesis.", "PMID": 457658} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12796", "title": "Human adenine phosphoribosyltransferase. Affinity purification, subunit structure, amino acid composition, and peptide mapping.", "content": "Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (EC 2.4.2.7) has been purified 55,000-fold from normal human erythrocytes. The native molecular weight of the enzyme is 38,200 as determined by sedimentation equilibrium centrifugation. The subunit molecular weight is 18,000 as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and 17,000 as determined by gel filtration in guanidine hydrochloride, suggesting that the enzyme is a dimer in its native state. Cross-linking the enzyme with dimethylsuberimidate confirms the dimeric structure and peptide mapping data suggested that the subunits are quite similar if not identical. The amino acid composition reveals that 33% of the residues are hydrophobic.", "contents": "Human adenine phosphoribosyltransferase. Affinity purification, subunit structure, amino acid composition, and peptide mapping. Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (EC 2.4.2.7) has been purified 55,000-fold from normal human erythrocytes. The native molecular weight of the enzyme is 38,200 as determined by sedimentation equilibrium centrifugation. The subunit molecular weight is 18,000 as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and 17,000 as determined by gel filtration in guanidine hydrochloride, suggesting that the enzyme is a dimer in its native state. Cross-linking the enzyme with dimethylsuberimidate confirms the dimeric structure and peptide mapping data suggested that the subunits are quite similar if not identical. The amino acid composition reveals that 33% of the residues are hydrophobic.", "PMID": 457664} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12797", "title": "Inhibiting effect of procollagen peptides on collagen biosynthesis in fibroblast cultures.", "content": "NH2-terminal extension peptides of type I and type III procollagens were isolated from dermatosparactic and normal fetal calfskin, respectively. Cell culture experiments showed that the globular domains of the tested procollagen peptides were biologically active but that peptides from the helical region of collagen had no effect. The peptides were added to the incubation medium of calf fibroblasts along with radioactive precursor amino acids, and the amount of newly synthesized collagen was determined. The experiments indicated that procollagen peptides exerted a feedback-like inhibitory effect specific for the synthesis of collagen. Neither degradation of collagen, hydroxylation of collagen alpha chains, nor synthesis of noncollagenous proteins were affected. Synthesis of type II collagen by calf chondrocytes was not reduced. In addition, it was shown that procollagen peptides from calf were equally effective when added to human fibroblast cultures, an observation that could be of considerable medical interest.", "contents": "Inhibiting effect of procollagen peptides on collagen biosynthesis in fibroblast cultures. NH2-terminal extension peptides of type I and type III procollagens were isolated from dermatosparactic and normal fetal calfskin, respectively. Cell culture experiments showed that the globular domains of the tested procollagen peptides were biologically active but that peptides from the helical region of collagen had no effect. The peptides were added to the incubation medium of calf fibroblasts along with radioactive precursor amino acids, and the amount of newly synthesized collagen was determined. The experiments indicated that procollagen peptides exerted a feedback-like inhibitory effect specific for the synthesis of collagen. Neither degradation of collagen, hydroxylation of collagen alpha chains, nor synthesis of noncollagenous proteins were affected. Synthesis of type II collagen by calf chondrocytes was not reduced. In addition, it was shown that procollagen peptides from calf were equally effective when added to human fibroblast cultures, an observation that could be of considerable medical interest.", "PMID": 457666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12798", "title": "Developmental regulation of creatine kinase isoenzymes in myogenic cell cultures from chicken. Levels of mRNA for creatine kinase subunits M and B.", "content": "During the first 2 days of culture of myogenic chicken cells only minute amounts of mRNA for a subunit of creatine kinase, M-CK, could be found in cultures from the 3rd and 4th day; however, a dramatic increase of mRNA for the muscle-specific M-CK was observed. The mRNA for B-CK, another subunit of creatine kinase, was readily detectable in young cultures increased up to the 3rd day in culture but decreased significantly 1 day later. The comparison of the ratios of mRNA concentrations for M-CK and B-CK in polysomal and total cellular RNA did not reveal significant differences in polysomal and total cellular RNA from 24-, 48-, and 68-h cultures, indicating that specific accumulation of a nonpolysomal form containing translatable mRNA for M-CK prior to its appearance in the polysomes does not seem to represent a major mechanism of regulation. In RNA from cells grown in 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdUrd) for 3 days and subcultured into the same medium for another 3 days only mRNA for B-CK was found. If cells, however, were subcultured into standard medium both mRNAs, the one for B-CK and the one for M-CK could be detected. BrdUrd inhibition seems to affect only the mRNA for M-CK and not the one for B-CK. Removal of BrdUrd from the cultures probably allows new transcription or processing of mRNA for M-CK, or both.", "contents": "Developmental regulation of creatine kinase isoenzymes in myogenic cell cultures from chicken. Levels of mRNA for creatine kinase subunits M and B. During the first 2 days of culture of myogenic chicken cells only minute amounts of mRNA for a subunit of creatine kinase, M-CK, could be found in cultures from the 3rd and 4th day; however, a dramatic increase of mRNA for the muscle-specific M-CK was observed. The mRNA for B-CK, another subunit of creatine kinase, was readily detectable in young cultures increased up to the 3rd day in culture but decreased significantly 1 day later. The comparison of the ratios of mRNA concentrations for M-CK and B-CK in polysomal and total cellular RNA did not reveal significant differences in polysomal and total cellular RNA from 24-, 48-, and 68-h cultures, indicating that specific accumulation of a nonpolysomal form containing translatable mRNA for M-CK prior to its appearance in the polysomes does not seem to represent a major mechanism of regulation. In RNA from cells grown in 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdUrd) for 3 days and subcultured into the same medium for another 3 days only mRNA for B-CK was found. If cells, however, were subcultured into standard medium both mRNAs, the one for B-CK and the one for M-CK could be detected. BrdUrd inhibition seems to affect only the mRNA for M-CK and not the one for B-CK. Removal of BrdUrd from the cultures probably allows new transcription or processing of mRNA for M-CK, or both.", "PMID": 457668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12799", "title": "The binding of substrates and a product of the enzymatic reaction to glutathione S-transferase A.", "content": "The binding of substrates and a product to glutathione S-transferase A from rat liver was studied by use of equilibrium dialysis and equilibrium partition in a two-phase system. The radioactive substrates glutathione and bromosulfophthalein as well as a product of glutathione and 3,4-dichloro-1-nitrobenzene, S-(2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl)glutathione, gave hyperbolic binding isotherms with a stoichiometry of 2 mol per mol of enzyme (i.e. 1 molecule per subunit). Glutathione (and glutathione disulfide) had an equilibrium (dissociation) constant for the binding of about 10 microM, whereas bromosulfophthalein and the product had equilibrium constants of about 0.5 microM. All ligands showed the same binding stoichiometry, and competition experiments involving unlabeled ligands indicated that glutathione and the glutathione derivatives were binding to the same site. Low affinity sites appeared to exist in addition to the specific high affinity sites (one per subunit) for all ligands tested. The binding studies are fully consistent with a steady state random kinetic mechanism for the enzyme.", "contents": "The binding of substrates and a product of the enzymatic reaction to glutathione S-transferase A. The binding of substrates and a product to glutathione S-transferase A from rat liver was studied by use of equilibrium dialysis and equilibrium partition in a two-phase system. The radioactive substrates glutathione and bromosulfophthalein as well as a product of glutathione and 3,4-dichloro-1-nitrobenzene, S-(2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl)glutathione, gave hyperbolic binding isotherms with a stoichiometry of 2 mol per mol of enzyme (i.e. 1 molecule per subunit). Glutathione (and glutathione disulfide) had an equilibrium (dissociation) constant for the binding of about 10 microM, whereas bromosulfophthalein and the product had equilibrium constants of about 0.5 microM. All ligands showed the same binding stoichiometry, and competition experiments involving unlabeled ligands indicated that glutathione and the glutathione derivatives were binding to the same site. Low affinity sites appeared to exist in addition to the specific high affinity sites (one per subunit) for all ligands tested. The binding studies are fully consistent with a steady state random kinetic mechanism for the enzyme.", "PMID": 457671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12800", "title": "The nucleotide sequence adjacent to poly(A) in silk fibroin messenger RNA.", "content": "The 3'-terminal nucleotide sequence of fibroin mRNA has been determined. A cDNA transcript primed by oligo(dT) hybridized to the poly(A) segment of fibroin mRNA was used to determine the sequence immediately adjacent to poly(A). A specific primer complementary to this sequence then allowed synthesis of 5'-terminally homogeneous transcripts amenable to analysis by rapid sequencing methods. The 3' terminus of fibroin mRNA contains an unusually long oligo(U) stretch, as well as the sequence A2UA3 recently found in 3' non-coding regions of other eukaryotic mRNAs. It lacks the oligonucleotides characteristic of the repetitive coding region of fibroin mRNA.", "contents": "The nucleotide sequence adjacent to poly(A) in silk fibroin messenger RNA. The 3'-terminal nucleotide sequence of fibroin mRNA has been determined. A cDNA transcript primed by oligo(dT) hybridized to the poly(A) segment of fibroin mRNA was used to determine the sequence immediately adjacent to poly(A). A specific primer complementary to this sequence then allowed synthesis of 5'-terminally homogeneous transcripts amenable to analysis by rapid sequencing methods. The 3' terminus of fibroin mRNA contains an unusually long oligo(U) stretch, as well as the sequence A2UA3 recently found in 3' non-coding regions of other eukaryotic mRNAs. It lacks the oligonucleotides characteristic of the repetitive coding region of fibroin mRNA.", "PMID": 457673} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12801", "title": "Biological activity of 24,24-difluoro-25-hydroxyvitamin D3. Effect of blocking of 24-hydroxylation on the functions of vitamin D.", "content": "To examine the question of whether 24-hydroxylation plays and importance role in the physiological functions of vitamin D, the biological activity of 24,24-difluoro-25-hydroxyvitamin D was compared with that of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in vitamin D-deficient rats. These two compounds were found almost identically active in the stimulation of intestinal calcium transport, the mobilization of calcium from bone, the healing of rachitic epiphyseal plate cartilage, the elevation of serum inorganic phosphorus, the mineralization of rachitic bone, and in the prevention of rachitogenesis in rats. Little or no difference was detected in the time course of response of intestinal calcium transport or bone calcium mobilization to the two forms of vitamin D. Therefore, in the rat no support could be obtained for the idea that 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 plays an important role in the known physiological responses to the vitamin.", "contents": "Biological activity of 24,24-difluoro-25-hydroxyvitamin D3. Effect of blocking of 24-hydroxylation on the functions of vitamin D. To examine the question of whether 24-hydroxylation plays and importance role in the physiological functions of vitamin D, the biological activity of 24,24-difluoro-25-hydroxyvitamin D was compared with that of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in vitamin D-deficient rats. These two compounds were found almost identically active in the stimulation of intestinal calcium transport, the mobilization of calcium from bone, the healing of rachitic epiphyseal plate cartilage, the elevation of serum inorganic phosphorus, the mineralization of rachitic bone, and in the prevention of rachitogenesis in rats. Little or no difference was detected in the time course of response of intestinal calcium transport or bone calcium mobilization to the two forms of vitamin D. Therefore, in the rat no support could be obtained for the idea that 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 plays an important role in the known physiological responses to the vitamin.", "PMID": 457674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12802", "title": "Analytical peptide mapping by high performance liquid chromatography. Application to intestinal calcium-binding proteins.", "content": "Peptide mapping of underivatized tryptic digests of bovine and chick intestinal calcium-binding proteins has been accomplished by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). High precision analysis of nanomolar quantities of peptides were achieved in less than 1 h (recycle time). Peak resolution and definition are superior compared to conventional techniques and recoveries of both small (4-residue) hydrophilic and large (30-residue) hydrophobic peptides are excellent. The total amino acid composition of the bovine intestinal calcium-binding protein has been accounted for on the basis of two tryptic maps of 20 microgram of protein each.", "contents": "Analytical peptide mapping by high performance liquid chromatography. Application to intestinal calcium-binding proteins. Peptide mapping of underivatized tryptic digests of bovine and chick intestinal calcium-binding proteins has been accomplished by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). High precision analysis of nanomolar quantities of peptides were achieved in less than 1 h (recycle time). Peak resolution and definition are superior compared to conventional techniques and recoveries of both small (4-residue) hydrophilic and large (30-residue) hydrophobic peptides are excellent. The total amino acid composition of the bovine intestinal calcium-binding protein has been accounted for on the basis of two tryptic maps of 20 microgram of protein each.", "PMID": 457676} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12803", "title": "Cholecystokinin/pancreozymin induces the parallel discharge of digestive enzymes from the in vitro rabbit pancreas.", "content": "Considerable controversy has surrounded the question of whether the exocrine pancreas discharges digestive enzymes in a parallel or nonparallel fashion. A recent report (Rothman, S.S., and Wilking, H. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 3543-3549) claimed that the in vitro rabbit pancreas demonstrated nonparallel enzyme discharge after stimulation with cholecystokinin/pancreozymin, but that parallel discharge followed stimulation with the COOH-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin/pancreozymin. It was suggested that the full hormone acted to inhibit chymotrypsinogen secretion while stimulating trypsinogen secretion. Because of the fundamental importance of this question to our understanding of the exocrine secretion of exportable proteins, we have repeated these experiments using the same preparation and stimulant but have observed only parallel enzyme discharge. We conclude that it is unlikely that cholecystokinin/pancreozymin causes the selective inhibition of chymotrypsinogen secretion.", "contents": "Cholecystokinin/pancreozymin induces the parallel discharge of digestive enzymes from the in vitro rabbit pancreas. Considerable controversy has surrounded the question of whether the exocrine pancreas discharges digestive enzymes in a parallel or nonparallel fashion. A recent report (Rothman, S.S., and Wilking, H. (1978) J. Biol. Chem. 253, 3543-3549) claimed that the in vitro rabbit pancreas demonstrated nonparallel enzyme discharge after stimulation with cholecystokinin/pancreozymin, but that parallel discharge followed stimulation with the COOH-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin/pancreozymin. It was suggested that the full hormone acted to inhibit chymotrypsinogen secretion while stimulating trypsinogen secretion. Because of the fundamental importance of this question to our understanding of the exocrine secretion of exportable proteins, we have repeated these experiments using the same preparation and stimulant but have observed only parallel enzyme discharge. We conclude that it is unlikely that cholecystokinin/pancreozymin causes the selective inhibition of chymotrypsinogen secretion.", "PMID": 457677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12804", "title": "Benzoyl-coenzyme A:glycine N-acyltransferase and phenylacetyl-coenzyme A:glycine N-acyltransferase from bovine liver mitochondria. Purification and characterization.", "content": "Two closely related acyl-CoA:amino acid N-acyl-transferases were purified to near-homogeneity from preparations of bovine liver mitochondria. Each enzyme consisted of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight near 33,000. One transferase was specific for benzoyl-CoA, salicyl-CoA, and certain short straight and branched chain fatty acyl-CoA esters as substrates while the other enzyme specifically used either phenylacetyl-CoA or indoleacetyl-CoA. Acyl-CoA substrates for one transferase inhibited the other. Glycine was the preferred acyl acceptor for both enzymes but either L-asparagine or L-glutamine also served. Peptide products for each transferase were identified by mass spectrometry. Enzymatic cleavage of acyl-CoA was stoichiometric with release of thiol and formation of peptide product. Apparent Km values were low for the preferred acyl-CoA substrates relative to the amino acid acceptors (10(-5) M range compared to greater than 10(-3) M). Both enzymes were inhibited by high nonphysiological concentrations of certain divalent cations (Mg2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+). In contrast to benzoyltransferase, phenylacetyltransferase was sensitive to inhibition by either 10(-4) M 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate) or 10(-5) M p-chloromercuribenzoate; 10(-4) M phenylacetyl-CoA partially protected phenylacetyltransferase against 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate) inactivation but 10(-1) M glycine did not. For activity, phenylacetyltransferase required addition of certain monovalent cations (K+, Rb+, Na+, Li+, Cs+, or (NH4)+) to the assay system but benzoyltransferase did not. Preliminary kinetic studies of both transferases were consistent with a sequential reaction mechanism in which the acyl-CoA substrate adds to the enzyme first, glycine adds before CoA leaves, and the peptide product dissociates last.", "contents": "Benzoyl-coenzyme A:glycine N-acyltransferase and phenylacetyl-coenzyme A:glycine N-acyltransferase from bovine liver mitochondria. Purification and characterization. Two closely related acyl-CoA:amino acid N-acyl-transferases were purified to near-homogeneity from preparations of bovine liver mitochondria. Each enzyme consisted of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight near 33,000. One transferase was specific for benzoyl-CoA, salicyl-CoA, and certain short straight and branched chain fatty acyl-CoA esters as substrates while the other enzyme specifically used either phenylacetyl-CoA or indoleacetyl-CoA. Acyl-CoA substrates for one transferase inhibited the other. Glycine was the preferred acyl acceptor for both enzymes but either L-asparagine or L-glutamine also served. Peptide products for each transferase were identified by mass spectrometry. Enzymatic cleavage of acyl-CoA was stoichiometric with release of thiol and formation of peptide product. Apparent Km values were low for the preferred acyl-CoA substrates relative to the amino acid acceptors (10(-5) M range compared to greater than 10(-3) M). Both enzymes were inhibited by high nonphysiological concentrations of certain divalent cations (Mg2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+). In contrast to benzoyltransferase, phenylacetyltransferase was sensitive to inhibition by either 10(-4) M 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate) or 10(-5) M p-chloromercuribenzoate; 10(-4) M phenylacetyl-CoA partially protected phenylacetyltransferase against 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate) inactivation but 10(-1) M glycine did not. For activity, phenylacetyltransferase required addition of certain monovalent cations (K+, Rb+, Na+, Li+, Cs+, or (NH4)+) to the assay system but benzoyltransferase did not. Preliminary kinetic studies of both transferases were consistent with a sequential reaction mechanism in which the acyl-CoA substrate adds to the enzyme first, glycine adds before CoA leaves, and the peptide product dissociates last.", "PMID": 457678} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12805", "title": "Transport and metabolism of thiamin in isolated rat hepatocytes.", "content": "This study examines thiamin transport in isolated rat hepatocytes and its relationship to thiamin phosphorylation. In an Na+ medium, [35S]thiamin, 3 microM, was accumulated rapidly by the cells, and a near study state intra-/extracellular distribution ratio of 3 was attained in 1 min. However, the uptake of radioactivity continued to increase with time owing principally to the accumulation of [35S]thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP). In a choline, Li+ or K+ medium, the steady state intra-/extracellular distribution ratio of [35S]thiamin was decreased to less than or equal to 1.1. Accordingly, the rate of formation of [35S]TPP also decreased. Ouabain and uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation significantly lowered the distribution ratio of intra-/extracellular [35S]thiamin. These data indicate that thiamin transport in liver is concentrative, Na+-dependent, and dependent on biological energy. Additionally, they suggest that thiamin transport plays a significant role in governing the rate of synthesis of TPP. Neither pyrithiamin, an inhibitor of thiamin pyrophosphokinase nor o-benzoylthiamin disulfide, a permeable thiamin analog, affected the distribution ratio of intra-/extracellular [35S]thiamin, but preferentially inhibited the phosphorylation of [35S]thiamin. By contrast, amprolium primarily inhibited uptake. These data suggest that thiamin transport and phosphorylation can be differentiated by the action of appropriate inhibitors.", "contents": "Transport and metabolism of thiamin in isolated rat hepatocytes. This study examines thiamin transport in isolated rat hepatocytes and its relationship to thiamin phosphorylation. In an Na+ medium, [35S]thiamin, 3 microM, was accumulated rapidly by the cells, and a near study state intra-/extracellular distribution ratio of 3 was attained in 1 min. However, the uptake of radioactivity continued to increase with time owing principally to the accumulation of [35S]thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP). In a choline, Li+ or K+ medium, the steady state intra-/extracellular distribution ratio of [35S]thiamin was decreased to less than or equal to 1.1. Accordingly, the rate of formation of [35S]TPP also decreased. Ouabain and uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation significantly lowered the distribution ratio of intra-/extracellular [35S]thiamin. These data indicate that thiamin transport in liver is concentrative, Na+-dependent, and dependent on biological energy. Additionally, they suggest that thiamin transport plays a significant role in governing the rate of synthesis of TPP. Neither pyrithiamin, an inhibitor of thiamin pyrophosphokinase nor o-benzoylthiamin disulfide, a permeable thiamin analog, affected the distribution ratio of intra-/extracellular [35S]thiamin, but preferentially inhibited the phosphorylation of [35S]thiamin. By contrast, amprolium primarily inhibited uptake. These data suggest that thiamin transport and phosphorylation can be differentiated by the action of appropriate inhibitors.", "PMID": 457680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12806", "title": "Synthesis of high mobility group proteins in regenerating rat liver.", "content": "Incorporation of [3H]lysine into the non-histone chromosomal proteins HMG1, HMG2, and HMG17 and into each of the five major classes of histones was measured in rat liver at various times after partial hepatectomy. Histone synthesis was closely coupled temporally to that of DNA, although a small amount of histone was shown to be produced before DNA replication began. In contrast, the incorporation curves for the high mobility group (HMG) proteins showed little correlation with that for DNA. At 4 h after partial hepatectomy, protein synthesis had virtually ceased. Thereafter, the rates of synthesis of the HMG proteins rose steadily so that by 12 h, well before the onset of DNA replication they had reached about two-thirds of the maximum rates attained during the first cell division cycle. Histones had only reached about one-sixth of their maximum rates at this time. The lack of coupling betweeen the synthesis of the HMG proteins and DNA was confirmed by experiments with inhibitors of DNA replication. Reduction of DNA synthesis to less than 10% of the uninhibited rate had little or no effect on incorporation into the HMG proteins, whereas, under similar conditions, the rate of synthesis of histones was reduced by more than 50%.", "contents": "Synthesis of high mobility group proteins in regenerating rat liver. Incorporation of [3H]lysine into the non-histone chromosomal proteins HMG1, HMG2, and HMG17 and into each of the five major classes of histones was measured in rat liver at various times after partial hepatectomy. Histone synthesis was closely coupled temporally to that of DNA, although a small amount of histone was shown to be produced before DNA replication began. In contrast, the incorporation curves for the high mobility group (HMG) proteins showed little correlation with that for DNA. At 4 h after partial hepatectomy, protein synthesis had virtually ceased. Thereafter, the rates of synthesis of the HMG proteins rose steadily so that by 12 h, well before the onset of DNA replication they had reached about two-thirds of the maximum rates attained during the first cell division cycle. Histones had only reached about one-sixth of their maximum rates at this time. The lack of coupling betweeen the synthesis of the HMG proteins and DNA was confirmed by experiments with inhibitors of DNA replication. Reduction of DNA synthesis to less than 10% of the uninhibited rate had little or no effect on incorporation into the HMG proteins, whereas, under similar conditions, the rate of synthesis of histones was reduced by more than 50%.", "PMID": 457681} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12807", "title": "Conformational changes associated with complex formation between a mycobacterial polymethylpolysaccharide and palmitic acid.", "content": "The anomeric proton magnetic resonances of Mycobacterium smegmatis 3-O-methylmannose polysaccharide have chemical shifts intermediate betwen those of nonaglucoamylose and alpha-cyclodextrin, and on addition of palmitic acid most of these resonances are shifted upfield toward that of the cyclodextrin. This suggests that the methylated polysaccharide could have a conformation with some secondary structure intermediate between those of the two reference compounds, and that it forms a tightened coil upon addition of the lipid which yields an inclusion complex with the polysaccharide. The change in chemical shift is linear with lipid concentration, which indicates that the complex undergoes rapid exchange with free polysaccharide. The changes in proton chemical shifts of the polysaccharide and of the palmitic acid are consistent with the fatty acid being inserted in the coiled polysaccharide with its carboxyl group near the methyl aglycon.", "contents": "Conformational changes associated with complex formation between a mycobacterial polymethylpolysaccharide and palmitic acid. The anomeric proton magnetic resonances of Mycobacterium smegmatis 3-O-methylmannose polysaccharide have chemical shifts intermediate betwen those of nonaglucoamylose and alpha-cyclodextrin, and on addition of palmitic acid most of these resonances are shifted upfield toward that of the cyclodextrin. This suggests that the methylated polysaccharide could have a conformation with some secondary structure intermediate between those of the two reference compounds, and that it forms a tightened coil upon addition of the lipid which yields an inclusion complex with the polysaccharide. The change in chemical shift is linear with lipid concentration, which indicates that the complex undergoes rapid exchange with free polysaccharide. The changes in proton chemical shifts of the polysaccharide and of the palmitic acid are consistent with the fatty acid being inserted in the coiled polysaccharide with its carboxyl group near the methyl aglycon.", "PMID": 457682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12808", "title": "Preliminary crystallographic data on monomeric and dimeric hemoglobins from the sea cucumber, Molpadia arenicola.", "content": "Large single crystals of two distinct globin chains from coelomic cells of the sea cucumber Molpadia arenicola have been prepared and examined by x-ray crystallography. These hemoglobins exhibit a variety of ligand-dependent association states with the met-hemoglobins existing as monomers and liganded hemoglobins as dimers at physiological concentrations. Monomeric methemoglobin C chain crystallizes in space group P21, with a = 46.0 A, b = 45.3 A, c = 40.9 A, beta = 104.5 degrees, and one monomer per asymmetric unit. These crystals exhibit unusual spectroscopic behavior when examined with a polarizer, turning colorless in certain orientations. This implies that all the heme rings are nearly parallel within the crystals. Dimeric cyanmethemoglobin D chain crystallizes in space group P41212 (P43212), with a = b = 77.0 A, c = 61.5 A, and one-half a dimer per asymmetric unit. These homodimers thus possess a molecular 2-fold which is aligned with the crystallographic dyad.", "contents": "Preliminary crystallographic data on monomeric and dimeric hemoglobins from the sea cucumber, Molpadia arenicola. Large single crystals of two distinct globin chains from coelomic cells of the sea cucumber Molpadia arenicola have been prepared and examined by x-ray crystallography. These hemoglobins exhibit a variety of ligand-dependent association states with the met-hemoglobins existing as monomers and liganded hemoglobins as dimers at physiological concentrations. Monomeric methemoglobin C chain crystallizes in space group P21, with a = 46.0 A, b = 45.3 A, c = 40.9 A, beta = 104.5 degrees, and one monomer per asymmetric unit. These crystals exhibit unusual spectroscopic behavior when examined with a polarizer, turning colorless in certain orientations. This implies that all the heme rings are nearly parallel within the crystals. Dimeric cyanmethemoglobin D chain crystallizes in space group P41212 (P43212), with a = b = 77.0 A, c = 61.5 A, and one-half a dimer per asymmetric unit. These homodimers thus possess a molecular 2-fold which is aligned with the crystallographic dyad.", "PMID": 457687} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12809", "title": "Preliminary crystallographic data for glycolate oxidase from spinach.", "content": "Glycolate oxidase, an enzyme that plays an important role in photorespiration in plants, has been purificant from spinach and crystallized in two different crystal forms. Form A which was obtained with tertiary butanol as precipitating agent belongs to space group I 422 with unit cell dimensions a = b = 148.1 A and c = 134.9 A. This form diffracts to high resolution and will be used for further crystallographic studies. Form B is also tetragonal, space group P42212, with cell dimensions a = b = 145.4 A and c = 104.2 A. This form was obtained from ammonium sulfate precipitations. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis shows that the enzyme is built up from subunits of molecular weight 37,000. The asymmetric units of both crystal forms contain at least two such subunits.", "contents": "Preliminary crystallographic data for glycolate oxidase from spinach. Glycolate oxidase, an enzyme that plays an important role in photorespiration in plants, has been purificant from spinach and crystallized in two different crystal forms. Form A which was obtained with tertiary butanol as precipitating agent belongs to space group I 422 with unit cell dimensions a = b = 148.1 A and c = 134.9 A. This form diffracts to high resolution and will be used for further crystallographic studies. Form B is also tetragonal, space group P42212, with cell dimensions a = b = 145.4 A and c = 104.2 A. This form was obtained from ammonium sulfate precipitations. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis shows that the enzyme is built up from subunits of molecular weight 37,000. The asymmetric units of both crystal forms contain at least two such subunits.", "PMID": 457688} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12810", "title": "Isolation and incorporation of rabbit liver epoxide hydrase into phospholipid vesicles.", "content": "Methods are described for the incorporation into phospholipid vesicles of epoxide hydrase isolated from liver microsomes of phenobarbital-treated rabbits. Chromatography on a Sephadex G-50 column of epoxide hydrase and egg yolk phosphatidylcholine treated with sodium cholate yielded homogeneous vesicles with a diameter of about 25 nm and containing 80 to 85% of the protein applied. At high substrate concentrations, the vesicles catalyzed the hydration of benzo(a)pyrene-4,5-oxide and styrene-7,8-epoxide at a rate similar to that obtained with the enzyme in a soluble form. However, the kinetics of styrene glycol formation catalyzed by the vesicular or microsomal preparations were complex. Convex Lineweaver-Burk plots and concave Hill plots were obtained, whereas normal Michaelis-Menten kinetics characterized the hydration catalyzed by the enzyme in a soluble form. The results could be explained if reconstitution of the enzyme into the vesicles gives rise to low affinity high capacity sites for the substrate on the enzyme, or alternatively facilitates the interaction of the substrate with such sites already present. It is suggested that reconstituted liposomes containing both the liver microsomal hydroxylase system and epoxide hydrase may prove to be a good model system for evaluating substrate specificity and factors of importance in the formation of toxic and carcinogenic metabolites by these enzymes.", "contents": "Isolation and incorporation of rabbit liver epoxide hydrase into phospholipid vesicles. Methods are described for the incorporation into phospholipid vesicles of epoxide hydrase isolated from liver microsomes of phenobarbital-treated rabbits. Chromatography on a Sephadex G-50 column of epoxide hydrase and egg yolk phosphatidylcholine treated with sodium cholate yielded homogeneous vesicles with a diameter of about 25 nm and containing 80 to 85% of the protein applied. At high substrate concentrations, the vesicles catalyzed the hydration of benzo(a)pyrene-4,5-oxide and styrene-7,8-epoxide at a rate similar to that obtained with the enzyme in a soluble form. However, the kinetics of styrene glycol formation catalyzed by the vesicular or microsomal preparations were complex. Convex Lineweaver-Burk plots and concave Hill plots were obtained, whereas normal Michaelis-Menten kinetics characterized the hydration catalyzed by the enzyme in a soluble form. The results could be explained if reconstitution of the enzyme into the vesicles gives rise to low affinity high capacity sites for the substrate on the enzyme, or alternatively facilitates the interaction of the substrate with such sites already present. It is suggested that reconstituted liposomes containing both the liver microsomal hydroxylase system and epoxide hydrase may prove to be a good model system for evaluating substrate specificity and factors of importance in the formation of toxic and carcinogenic metabolites by these enzymes.", "PMID": 457690} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12811", "title": "Effect of implant surface chemistry upon arterial thrombosis.", "content": "A series of poly(alpha-amino acid)s with controlled chemical variations were investigated in order to assess the effect of different chemical moieties upon arterial thrombosis. The gross implant surface properties ranged from hydrophobic to hydrophilic ionic and nonionic. The materials were tested by implantation within canine femoral and carotid arteries. Results were compared with the response to the polyurethane Biomer. The changes in implant surface chemistry elicited a range of response that varied from intense thrombosis and rapid vessel occlusion to minimal thrombosis and endothelialization. The results showed that no simple relationship exists between a gross surface property, such as hydrophobicity, and the degree of thrombosis resistance. Some hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials were found to have good thrombosis resistance, while others were found to have poor thrombosis resistance. Leukocytes were shown to play an important role in both initial thrombosis and endothelialization. The major difference between materials that progressed to rapid vessel occlusion and materials that remained patent was the degree of direct leukocyte adherence and spreading on the implant surface prior to extensive platelet aggregation (less than 30 min). It was consistent for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials that the lack of direct leukocyte adherence to the implant surface was associated with intense thrombosis and rapid vessel occlusion. Conversely, the presence of numerous leukocytes directly adherent to either hydrophobic or hydrophilic surfaces appeared to have a moderating effect upon thrombosis and vessels with these implants remained patent. In instances when thrombosis was nonocclusive, the surfaces of the thrombi became endothelialized, primarily through the transformation of mononuclear leukocytes into endothelial cells. This article includes a hypothetical model representing the sequence of events and alternative pathways occurring at the blood-material interface, with special attention given to the involvement of leukocytes in arterial thrombosis.", "contents": "Effect of implant surface chemistry upon arterial thrombosis. A series of poly(alpha-amino acid)s with controlled chemical variations were investigated in order to assess the effect of different chemical moieties upon arterial thrombosis. The gross implant surface properties ranged from hydrophobic to hydrophilic ionic and nonionic. The materials were tested by implantation within canine femoral and carotid arteries. Results were compared with the response to the polyurethane Biomer. The changes in implant surface chemistry elicited a range of response that varied from intense thrombosis and rapid vessel occlusion to minimal thrombosis and endothelialization. The results showed that no simple relationship exists between a gross surface property, such as hydrophobicity, and the degree of thrombosis resistance. Some hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials were found to have good thrombosis resistance, while others were found to have poor thrombosis resistance. Leukocytes were shown to play an important role in both initial thrombosis and endothelialization. The major difference between materials that progressed to rapid vessel occlusion and materials that remained patent was the degree of direct leukocyte adherence and spreading on the implant surface prior to extensive platelet aggregation (less than 30 min). It was consistent for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials that the lack of direct leukocyte adherence to the implant surface was associated with intense thrombosis and rapid vessel occlusion. Conversely, the presence of numerous leukocytes directly adherent to either hydrophobic or hydrophilic surfaces appeared to have a moderating effect upon thrombosis and vessels with these implants remained patent. In instances when thrombosis was nonocclusive, the surfaces of the thrombi became endothelialized, primarily through the transformation of mononuclear leukocytes into endothelial cells. This article includes a hypothetical model representing the sequence of events and alternative pathways occurring at the blood-material interface, with special attention given to the involvement of leukocytes in arterial thrombosis.", "PMID": 457704} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12812", "title": "Durability of the bond between bone and various 2-cyanoacrylates in an aqueous environment.", "content": "The durability of the bond strength developed between 2-cyanoacrylate esters and bone has been determined by aging specimens in water. One-day bond strength of the isobutyl and isomeric amyl 2-cyanoacrylates varied from 6.2 to 7.2 MPa. The strength of the bond decreased on storage or on thermocycling in water. Hydrolytic stability increased with increasing length of the alkyl ester group. After a six-month storage in water the various amyl 2-cyanoacrylates retained from 70% to 73% of their one-day bond strength. Pretreatment of the bone surface prior to application of the adhesive did not prove beneficial. The cured 2-cyanoacrylate can be removed from the substrate surface by appropriate solvents. Thus, it is not bonded covalently to bone. The bond strength, especially of the isobutyl and amyl 2-cyanoacrylates to bone in an aqueous environment, appears to be superior to other adhesives. Provided these monomers are biocompatible, they may be useful clinically where an intermediate-term adhesion is desired.", "contents": "Durability of the bond between bone and various 2-cyanoacrylates in an aqueous environment. The durability of the bond strength developed between 2-cyanoacrylate esters and bone has been determined by aging specimens in water. One-day bond strength of the isobutyl and isomeric amyl 2-cyanoacrylates varied from 6.2 to 7.2 MPa. The strength of the bond decreased on storage or on thermocycling in water. Hydrolytic stability increased with increasing length of the alkyl ester group. After a six-month storage in water the various amyl 2-cyanoacrylates retained from 70% to 73% of their one-day bond strength. Pretreatment of the bone surface prior to application of the adhesive did not prove beneficial. The cured 2-cyanoacrylate can be removed from the substrate surface by appropriate solvents. Thus, it is not bonded covalently to bone. The bond strength, especially of the isobutyl and amyl 2-cyanoacrylates to bone in an aqueous environment, appears to be superior to other adhesives. Provided these monomers are biocompatible, they may be useful clinically where an intermediate-term adhesion is desired.", "PMID": 457705} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12813", "title": "Mechanical properties of antibacterial silicone rubber for hydrocephalus shunts.", "content": "In an effort to find a solution to the serious problem of bacterial colonization of cerebrospinal-fluid shunting devices, room-temperature and heat-vulcanizing silicone rubbers were impregnated with gentamicin sulphate. The effects on the mechanical properties of the two rubbers were studied. Results show that the tensile strength and extensibility of the room-temperature-vulcanizing silicone rubber reduced with increasing concentration of the drug. For the heat-vulcanizing silicone rubber, the tensile strength was also found to decrease with increasing drug content. The extensibility after an initial reduction at low concentrations was found to increase at drug concentrations in excess of 10 mg/g. Nevertheless, the changes in mechanical properties measured are considered not to be so great as to preclude the application of drug-impregnated silicone rubbers to cerebrospinal-fluid shunting devices.", "contents": "Mechanical properties of antibacterial silicone rubber for hydrocephalus shunts. In an effort to find a solution to the serious problem of bacterial colonization of cerebrospinal-fluid shunting devices, room-temperature and heat-vulcanizing silicone rubbers were impregnated with gentamicin sulphate. The effects on the mechanical properties of the two rubbers were studied. Results show that the tensile strength and extensibility of the room-temperature-vulcanizing silicone rubber reduced with increasing concentration of the drug. For the heat-vulcanizing silicone rubber, the tensile strength was also found to decrease with increasing drug content. The extensibility after an initial reduction at low concentrations was found to increase at drug concentrations in excess of 10 mg/g. Nevertheless, the changes in mechanical properties measured are considered not to be so great as to preclude the application of drug-impregnated silicone rubbers to cerebrospinal-fluid shunting devices.", "PMID": 457706} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12814", "title": "Influence of cold working on fatigue behavior of stainless steels used for prothesis: application to the study of wires with small sections.", "content": "Orthodontists mainly use stainless austenitic wires with a wide range of ultimate tensile strength. To characterize the dynamical behavior of these wires, the authors have perfected machines to test materials with their original surface roughness without any prior machining of surfaces. Fatigue limits are discussed through mechanical and structural properties of the austenitic steels, with special attention given to cold working. Typical features of fracture, and particularly of the first cracks, are shown by means of scanning electron microscopy.", "contents": "Influence of cold working on fatigue behavior of stainless steels used for prothesis: application to the study of wires with small sections. Orthodontists mainly use stainless austenitic wires with a wide range of ultimate tensile strength. To characterize the dynamical behavior of these wires, the authors have perfected machines to test materials with their original surface roughness without any prior machining of surfaces. Fatigue limits are discussed through mechanical and structural properties of the austenitic steels, with special attention given to cold working. Typical features of fracture, and particularly of the first cracks, are shown by means of scanning electron microscopy.", "PMID": 457707} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12815", "title": "Reconstruction of the hip. A mathematical approach to determine optimum geometric relationships.", "content": "The normal mechanical function of the hip is substantially altered by a variety of disorders. The surgical treatment of such conditions, particularly total hip replacement, offers the opportunity not only to replace the articular surfaces of the joint, but also to improve long-term mechanical function by reducing the loads on the joint. A mathematical model of the hip was developed to evaluate the effects of such surgically achievable mechanical alterations as acetabular placement, femoral shaft-prosthetic neck angle, neck length of the femoral prosthesis, and transfer of the greater trochanter. The loads on the hip were lowered significantly by placing the center of the acetabulum as far medially, inferiorly, and anteriorly as was anatomically feasible. Minimum joint contact forces occurred when the femoral shaft-prosthetic neck angles were small, while the minimum moments about the prosthesis stem-neck junction were found when the angles were 130 to 140 degrees. A neck length of the femoral prosthesis of thirty-five millimeters resulted in moments that were lower than those for a neck length of forty-five millimeters. Lateral transfer of the greater trochanter reduced hip-joint forces and moments but distal transfer had little mechanical effect.", "contents": "Reconstruction of the hip. A mathematical approach to determine optimum geometric relationships. The normal mechanical function of the hip is substantially altered by a variety of disorders. The surgical treatment of such conditions, particularly total hip replacement, offers the opportunity not only to replace the articular surfaces of the joint, but also to improve long-term mechanical function by reducing the loads on the joint. A mathematical model of the hip was developed to evaluate the effects of such surgically achievable mechanical alterations as acetabular placement, femoral shaft-prosthetic neck angle, neck length of the femoral prosthesis, and transfer of the greater trochanter. The loads on the hip were lowered significantly by placing the center of the acetabulum as far medially, inferiorly, and anteriorly as was anatomically feasible. Minimum joint contact forces occurred when the femoral shaft-prosthetic neck angles were small, while the minimum moments about the prosthesis stem-neck junction were found when the angles were 130 to 140 degrees. A neck length of the femoral prosthesis of thirty-five millimeters resulted in moments that were lower than those for a neck length of forty-five millimeters. Lateral transfer of the greater trochanter reduced hip-joint forces and moments but distal transfer had little mechanical effect.", "PMID": 457709} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12816", "title": "The effect of total hip replacement and general surgery on antithrombin III in relation to venous thrombosis.", "content": "This investigation was undertaken to identify and correlate one factor that makes patients undergoing total hip replacement more susceptible to venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism than those who have almost any other elective orthopaedic procedure, and to determine why the operation of total hip replacement has proved to be relatively resistant to antithrombotic prophylaxis compared with general surgical procedures. Using the depletion of antithrombin III as a marker of activation of the coagulation system, two groups of patients were compared: twenty-one who were subjected to hip arthroplasty and fourteen who underwent general surgical procedures. Both during and after operation the decrease in the quantity of antithrombin III in hip-arthroplasty patients was significantly greater (p less than 0.05) than the decrease in general surgical patients. Seventy-three per cent of hip-replacement patients had venographic evidence of recent thrombosis, 60 per cent of which were discontinuous femoral-vein thrombi. Femoral-vein thrombosis occurs frequently in hip-arthroplasty patients and is relatively resistant to current antithrombotic prophylaxis. The data presented suggest that during hip surgery there is a strong systemic activation of the clotting cascade that is associated with local vessel injury and local stasis in the femoral vein, an association not found in most general surgical procedures.", "contents": "The effect of total hip replacement and general surgery on antithrombin III in relation to venous thrombosis. This investigation was undertaken to identify and correlate one factor that makes patients undergoing total hip replacement more susceptible to venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism than those who have almost any other elective orthopaedic procedure, and to determine why the operation of total hip replacement has proved to be relatively resistant to antithrombotic prophylaxis compared with general surgical procedures. Using the depletion of antithrombin III as a marker of activation of the coagulation system, two groups of patients were compared: twenty-one who were subjected to hip arthroplasty and fourteen who underwent general surgical procedures. Both during and after operation the decrease in the quantity of antithrombin III in hip-arthroplasty patients was significantly greater (p less than 0.05) than the decrease in general surgical patients. Seventy-three per cent of hip-replacement patients had venographic evidence of recent thrombosis, 60 per cent of which were discontinuous femoral-vein thrombi. Femoral-vein thrombosis occurs frequently in hip-arthroplasty patients and is relatively resistant to current antithrombotic prophylaxis. The data presented suggest that during hip surgery there is a strong systemic activation of the clotting cascade that is associated with local vessel injury and local stasis in the femoral vein, an association not found in most general surgical procedures.", "PMID": 457710} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12817", "title": "A method for the postmortem evaluation of an in situ total hip replacement.", "content": "A method was developed for the post-mortem evaluation of a total hip replacement retrieved in situ. The hip replacement had been implanted for six years. The evaluation procedure employed existing techniques in a logical sequence such that earlier tests would not compromise results from subsequent ones. These techniques included the measurement of range of motion, aspiration of the joint for analysis of debris, radionuclide arthrograms for determination of looseness of the components, gross and histological inspection of the capsule and synovial tissue, serial sectioning of the femoral component, determination of some mechanical properties of the bone and femoral stem, and scanning electron microscopy of the articulating surfaces of the prosthetic components. Positive findings in the specimen studied were: excessive wear of the articulating surface of the acetabular component, and associated polyethylene debris in the aspirate and surrounding synovial and granulation tissue.", "contents": "A method for the postmortem evaluation of an in situ total hip replacement. A method was developed for the post-mortem evaluation of a total hip replacement retrieved in situ. The hip replacement had been implanted for six years. The evaluation procedure employed existing techniques in a logical sequence such that earlier tests would not compromise results from subsequent ones. These techniques included the measurement of range of motion, aspiration of the joint for analysis of debris, radionuclide arthrograms for determination of looseness of the components, gross and histological inspection of the capsule and synovial tissue, serial sectioning of the femoral component, determination of some mechanical properties of the bone and femoral stem, and scanning electron microscopy of the articulating surfaces of the prosthetic components. Positive findings in the specimen studied were: excessive wear of the articulating surface of the acetabular component, and associated polyethylene debris in the aspirate and surrounding synovial and granulation tissue.", "PMID": 457711} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12818", "title": "Glenohumeral arthrodesis. Operative and long-term functional results.", "content": "Seventy-one shoulders of seventy patients were fused for treatment of various conditions, and the results were analyzed after an average follow up of nine years and six months. The operative technique always included the use of internal fixation. The average position of arthrodesis was 45 degrees of abduction and 25 degrees of flexion of the arm, with the flexed forearm rotated 21 degrees above the horizontal plane, measured with the arm abducted and flexed. In sixty-eight shoulders, one operation achieved a solid fusion; in the other three, a second arthrodesis was required. Complications included tenderness over the outer ends of the internal fixation device, which required its removal from seventeen shoulders; a fracture in the fused extremity in ten patients; and a post-operative infection in one. Relief of pain was adequate in three-quarters of the patients. Three-quarters of the patients could perform activities involving reaching the trunk, one-half could do activities requiring reaching the head, and one-quarter were able to do light work with the arm at shoulder level or higher. The position of fusion had little effect on the result. Eighty-two per cent of the entire group believed that they had benefited from the operation, and none of the results deteriorated with time.", "contents": "Glenohumeral arthrodesis. Operative and long-term functional results. Seventy-one shoulders of seventy patients were fused for treatment of various conditions, and the results were analyzed after an average follow up of nine years and six months. The operative technique always included the use of internal fixation. The average position of arthrodesis was 45 degrees of abduction and 25 degrees of flexion of the arm, with the flexed forearm rotated 21 degrees above the horizontal plane, measured with the arm abducted and flexed. In sixty-eight shoulders, one operation achieved a solid fusion; in the other three, a second arthrodesis was required. Complications included tenderness over the outer ends of the internal fixation device, which required its removal from seventeen shoulders; a fracture in the fused extremity in ten patients; and a post-operative infection in one. Relief of pain was adequate in three-quarters of the patients. Three-quarters of the patients could perform activities involving reaching the trunk, one-half could do activities requiring reaching the head, and one-quarter were able to do light work with the arm at shoulder level or higher. The position of fusion had little effect on the result. Eighty-two per cent of the entire group believed that they had benefited from the operation, and none of the results deteriorated with time.", "PMID": 457712} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12819", "title": "Vertebral excision for kyphosis in children with myelomeningocele.", "content": "For twenty-three children with myelomeningocele, three types of operations, all including vertebral-body excision, were done to decrease and stabilize the kyphosis: (1) excision of the apical vertebra and a portion of the neighboring vertebra was done in five patients; (2) excision of the apical vertebra and of one or more vertebrae on each side of it, in eight patients; and (3) partial resection of the apical vertebra and of the proximal lordotic curve, in twelve patients. Loss of correction and increase of the kyphotic prominence equal to or greater than preoperative levels were encountered after the first two operations. The third operation provided persistent correction and the remaining lumbar vertebrae then continued to grow, increasing the capacity of the abdominal cavity.", "contents": "Vertebral excision for kyphosis in children with myelomeningocele. For twenty-three children with myelomeningocele, three types of operations, all including vertebral-body excision, were done to decrease and stabilize the kyphosis: (1) excision of the apical vertebra and a portion of the neighboring vertebra was done in five patients; (2) excision of the apical vertebra and of one or more vertebrae on each side of it, in eight patients; and (3) partial resection of the apical vertebra and of the proximal lordotic curve, in twelve patients. Loss of correction and increase of the kyphotic prominence equal to or greater than preoperative levels were encountered after the first two operations. The third operation provided persistent correction and the remaining lumbar vertebrae then continued to grow, increasing the capacity of the abdominal cavity.", "PMID": 457713} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12820", "title": "Lateral hamstring transfer and gait improvement in the cerebral palsy patient.", "content": "A retrospective analysis of twenty-three spastic patients who underwent forty-three transfers of the semitendinosus muscle to the lateral intramuscular septum and of the semimembranosus muscle to the biceps is presented. Decreased knee-flexion deformity as well as improved walking function were achieved in 91 per cent. An unsatisfactory result was associated with complications of the procedure. Only one knee of the forty-three that were operated on showed late genu recurvatum. This procedure appears to be both effective and relatively free of late comlications.", "contents": "Lateral hamstring transfer and gait improvement in the cerebral palsy patient. A retrospective analysis of twenty-three spastic patients who underwent forty-three transfers of the semitendinosus muscle to the lateral intramuscular septum and of the semimembranosus muscle to the biceps is presented. Decreased knee-flexion deformity as well as improved walking function were achieved in 91 per cent. An unsatisfactory result was associated with complications of the procedure. Only one knee of the forty-three that were operated on showed late genu recurvatum. This procedure appears to be both effective and relatively free of late comlications.", "PMID": 457714} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12821", "title": "An innovative removable rigid dressing technique for below-the-knee amputation.", "content": "The below-the-knee removable rigid dressing is a below-the-knee plaster cast held by a suspension stockinette to a supracondylar plastic cuff. It has proved to be an effective method for postoperative, pre-prosthetic, and prosthetic care of below-the-knee amputees. Being removable, it permits frequent observation and progressive shrinkage of the stump (by adding socks), and eliminates the need of elastic stump bandaging. In addition, it still maintains the advantages of immobilization of soft tissue (to reduce pain and facilitate wound healing) and prevention of trauma to the stump as does the conventional rigid dressing. It has significantly reduced the incidence of pre-tibial skin breakdown and distal edema, produced fast stump shrinkage, and shortened time to ambulatory discharge with a temporary prosthesis by ninety days.", "contents": "An innovative removable rigid dressing technique for below-the-knee amputation. The below-the-knee removable rigid dressing is a below-the-knee plaster cast held by a suspension stockinette to a supracondylar plastic cuff. It has proved to be an effective method for postoperative, pre-prosthetic, and prosthetic care of below-the-knee amputees. Being removable, it permits frequent observation and progressive shrinkage of the stump (by adding socks), and eliminates the need of elastic stump bandaging. In addition, it still maintains the advantages of immobilization of soft tissue (to reduce pain and facilitate wound healing) and prevention of trauma to the stump as does the conventional rigid dressing. It has significantly reduced the incidence of pre-tibial skin breakdown and distal edema, produced fast stump shrinkage, and shortened time to ambulatory discharge with a temporary prosthesis by ninety days.", "PMID": 457715} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12822", "title": "A fluted intramedullary rod for subtrochanteric fractures.", "content": "A new intramedullary rod has been developed for the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. The stepped fluted rod is designed as a single unit and has exceptional bending strength and rigidity as well as excellent torsional load-carrying capacity. It has been used successfully in eighteen patients with a variety of subtrochanteric fractures. Union was achieved in all instances and no failure of the implant occurred. The simplified technique of insertion, the strength of the device, and the results of this study indicate that the fluted subtrochanteric rod has several advantages over other available devices.", "contents": "A fluted intramedullary rod for subtrochanteric fractures. A new intramedullary rod has been developed for the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. The stepped fluted rod is designed as a single unit and has exceptional bending strength and rigidity as well as excellent torsional load-carrying capacity. It has been used successfully in eighteen patients with a variety of subtrochanteric fractures. Union was achieved in all instances and no failure of the implant occurred. The simplified technique of insertion, the strength of the device, and the results of this study indicate that the fluted subtrochanteric rod has several advantages over other available devices.", "PMID": 457716} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12823", "title": "Congenital radio-ulnar synostosis: surgical treatment.", "content": "The results of an operative approach to the problem of radio-ulnar synostosis were assessed in thirteen patients, ten to twenty-five and one-half years after the procedure was performed. We concluded that in a patient with bilateral synostosis one hand, the one not used in writing, should be shifted to a position of 20 to 35 degrees of supination. With one hand in this position, the other may be left in considerable pronation. Often after such a shift it is not necessary to rotate the second arm. However, if the pronation is marked in the second forearm, and if function is impaired unduly by this position, surgical correction is indicated. The arm should be placed in a position of 30 to 45 degrees of pronation. In unilateral radio-unlar synostosis, the ordinarily ideal position of the radius is between 10 and 20 degrees of supination. In an adult, the patient's occupation should be considered in deciding on the rotatory positions of the forearms. We usually prefer a method of transverse osteotomy through the conjoined mass of the radius and ulna. Careful observation of the effect on the vascular status of the limb during and immediately after surgery is important.", "contents": "Congenital radio-ulnar synostosis: surgical treatment. The results of an operative approach to the problem of radio-ulnar synostosis were assessed in thirteen patients, ten to twenty-five and one-half years after the procedure was performed. We concluded that in a patient with bilateral synostosis one hand, the one not used in writing, should be shifted to a position of 20 to 35 degrees of supination. With one hand in this position, the other may be left in considerable pronation. Often after such a shift it is not necessary to rotate the second arm. However, if the pronation is marked in the second forearm, and if function is impaired unduly by this position, surgical correction is indicated. The arm should be placed in a position of 30 to 45 degrees of pronation. In unilateral radio-unlar synostosis, the ordinarily ideal position of the radius is between 10 and 20 degrees of supination. In an adult, the patient's occupation should be considered in deciding on the rotatory positions of the forearms. We usually prefer a method of transverse osteotomy through the conjoined mass of the radius and ulna. Careful observation of the effect on the vascular status of the limb during and immediately after surgery is important.", "PMID": 457717} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12824", "title": "In vitro measurement of articular cartilage deformations in the intact human hip joint under load.", "content": "Using a new roentgenographic technique for measuring cartilage deformation in intact joint specimens, twenty-eight normal human hip joints from subjects twenty-five to eighty-five years old were loaded with a force of five times body weight in a testing machine. The initial unloaded thickness of the articular cartilage of the femoral head and the changes in thickness of this cartilage under load were measured roentgenographically at seven to twelve sites on each femoral head. These measurements showed that the deformations of femiral-head articular cartilage under load in the intact joint are non-uniform and increase greatly with age. In twelve specimens measurements were also made of the increase in cartilage deformation with time when the load of five times body weight was maintained on the joint. A single osteoarthrotic joint was also studied. The experimental findings imply changes in the fundamental mechanical properties of the cartilage with age, which probably result from age-related alterations in cartilage microstructure and chemical composition.", "contents": "In vitro measurement of articular cartilage deformations in the intact human hip joint under load. Using a new roentgenographic technique for measuring cartilage deformation in intact joint specimens, twenty-eight normal human hip joints from subjects twenty-five to eighty-five years old were loaded with a force of five times body weight in a testing machine. The initial unloaded thickness of the articular cartilage of the femoral head and the changes in thickness of this cartilage under load were measured roentgenographically at seven to twelve sites on each femoral head. These measurements showed that the deformations of femiral-head articular cartilage under load in the intact joint are non-uniform and increase greatly with age. In twelve specimens measurements were also made of the increase in cartilage deformation with time when the load of five times body weight was maintained on the joint. A single osteoarthrotic joint was also studied. The experimental findings imply changes in the fundamental mechanical properties of the cartilage with age, which probably result from age-related alterations in cartilage microstructure and chemical composition.", "PMID": 457718} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12825", "title": "Normal range of motion of joints in male subjects.", "content": "With a clinical goniometer, we measured the arcs of active motion of the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and foot in 109 normal male subjects ranging in age from eighteen months to fifty-four years old. The normal limits were determined for subjects who were one to nineteen years old and for those who were twenty to fifty-four years old. Significant differences were found between the two age groups for most motions. The data were compared with estimations in the handbook of The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons as the standard reference. The data constitute a more detailed set of measurements, based on a sample described according to height and age, than has been available hitherto.", "contents": "Normal range of motion of joints in male subjects. With a clinical goniometer, we measured the arcs of active motion of the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and foot in 109 normal male subjects ranging in age from eighteen months to fifty-four years old. The normal limits were determined for subjects who were one to nineteen years old and for those who were twenty to fifty-four years old. Significant differences were found between the two age groups for most motions. The data were compared with estimations in the handbook of The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons as the standard reference. The data constitute a more detailed set of measurements, based on a sample described according to height and age, than has been available hitherto.", "PMID": 457719} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12826", "title": "Congenital intrathoracic bronchopulmonary foregut malformations in childhood.", "content": "Bronchopulmonary foregut malformations (BPFM) are a group of related disorders. They include tracheoesophageal fistula with or without atresia, bronchopulmonary sequestration, intestinal duplication cyst, bronchogenic cyst, aberrant systemic arterial supply to the lung, and bronchial mucosal rests in the esophagus. This paper describes 12 cases which illustrate the spectrum of clinical and radiographic features of these anomalies. The embryogenesis of these malformations is reviewed and appropriate radiographic investigation is discussed.", "contents": "Congenital intrathoracic bronchopulmonary foregut malformations in childhood. Bronchopulmonary foregut malformations (BPFM) are a group of related disorders. They include tracheoesophageal fistula with or without atresia, bronchopulmonary sequestration, intestinal duplication cyst, bronchogenic cyst, aberrant systemic arterial supply to the lung, and bronchial mucosal rests in the esophagus. This paper describes 12 cases which illustrate the spectrum of clinical and radiographic features of these anomalies. The embryogenesis of these malformations is reviewed and appropriate radiographic investigation is discussed.", "PMID": 457731} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12827", "title": "Hill-Sachs deformity with an unusually large defect.", "content": "Anterior shoulder dislocation may cause a compression fracture in the posterolateral aspect of the humerus, known as the Hill-Sachs deformity. We wish to present a patient with an unusually large defect.", "contents": "Hill-Sachs deformity with an unusually large defect. Anterior shoulder dislocation may cause a compression fracture in the posterolateral aspect of the humerus, known as the Hill-Sachs deformity. We wish to present a patient with an unusually large defect.", "PMID": 457732} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12828", "title": "Intrathoracic desmoid at previous thoracotomy site.", "content": "Desmoid tumor (aggressive fibromatosis) of the chest wall is rare and usually extrathoracic. A large extrapleural intrathoracic desmoid occurred at the site of previous thoracotomy, and recurred five years later.", "contents": "Intrathoracic desmoid at previous thoracotomy site. Desmoid tumor (aggressive fibromatosis) of the chest wall is rare and usually extrathoracic. A large extrapleural intrathoracic desmoid occurred at the site of previous thoracotomy, and recurred five years later.", "PMID": 457734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12829", "title": "Cerebral aneurysms and cardiac myxoma.", "content": "Cerebral aneurysms with a characteristic pattern may arise as a complication of cardiac myxomas. In our patient, hemiparesis resulted 12 years after the myxoma was resected.", "contents": "Cerebral aneurysms and cardiac myxoma. Cerebral aneurysms with a characteristic pattern may arise as a complication of cardiac myxomas. In our patient, hemiparesis resulted 12 years after the myxoma was resected.", "PMID": 457737} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12830", "title": "Primary pulmonary sporotrichosis.", "content": "The diagnosis of primary pulmonary sporotrichosis was made in a 53-year-old male alcoholic four years after initial presentation with cavitary lung disease. Clinical and radiologic awareness of this extremely rare entity will allow optimal study of bronchial secretions in the bacteriology laboratory. Important clues include: (1) exposure to thorny plants, (2) cavitary pulmonary disease resistant to both diagnosis and treatment, and (3) a history of alcoholism.", "contents": "Primary pulmonary sporotrichosis. The diagnosis of primary pulmonary sporotrichosis was made in a 53-year-old male alcoholic four years after initial presentation with cavitary lung disease. Clinical and radiologic awareness of this extremely rare entity will allow optimal study of bronchial secretions in the bacteriology laboratory. Important clues include: (1) exposure to thorny plants, (2) cavitary pulmonary disease resistant to both diagnosis and treatment, and (3) a history of alcoholism.", "PMID": 457738} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12831", "title": "False negative mammograms causing delay in breast cancer diagnosis.", "content": "Eighty patients with negative mammograms and proven breast cancer are described. The incidence of negative mammograms is 5 to 7% of all breast cancer in Northern Alberta. In 30 patients, immediate biopsy because of clinical abnormality, and mastectomy, revealed only 3.3% axillary node involvement. The remaining 50 patients gave a history of finding a lump and then had a negative mammogram. Biopsy was delayed for a mean of 45 weeks. Their incidence of axillary node involvement was 42%. The mean age of both groups of patients was seven to eight years younger than the mean for all breast cancer patients. The implications of such delay on prognosis and survival are obvious. More public and medical education is needed.", "contents": "False negative mammograms causing delay in breast cancer diagnosis. Eighty patients with negative mammograms and proven breast cancer are described. The incidence of negative mammograms is 5 to 7% of all breast cancer in Northern Alberta. In 30 patients, immediate biopsy because of clinical abnormality, and mastectomy, revealed only 3.3% axillary node involvement. The remaining 50 patients gave a history of finding a lump and then had a negative mammogram. Biopsy was delayed for a mean of 45 weeks. Their incidence of axillary node involvement was 42%. The mean age of both groups of patients was seven to eight years younger than the mean for all breast cancer patients. The implications of such delay on prognosis and survival are obvious. More public and medical education is needed.", "PMID": 457739} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12832", "title": "Brain stem tumors in children (a review of 26 cases 1960--1976).", "content": "We reviewed 26 patients with brain stem tumors. None had a pre-treatment tissue diagnosis. Four of the 20 treated patients are alive from 22 months to 12 years later, representing no improvement from a preceding series in the same centre.", "contents": "Brain stem tumors in children (a review of 26 cases 1960--1976). We reviewed 26 patients with brain stem tumors. None had a pre-treatment tissue diagnosis. Four of the 20 treated patients are alive from 22 months to 12 years later, representing no improvement from a preceding series in the same centre.", "PMID": 457740} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12833", "title": "An improved radiographic view of the glenohumeral joint.", "content": "In addition to the standard views of the shoulder (external rotation, internal rotation, and axillary), a 40-degree posterior oblique and a 60-degree anterior oblique projection were used to evaluate 105 consecutive shoulder examinations. Of the 32 abnormal shoulders evaluated, the diagnosis was established 97% of the time with a single 40-degree posterior oblique view, as opposed to a 78% rate with the three standard views. The 40-degree posterior oblique view of the shoulder is especially useful in evaluating the glenohumeral joint.", "contents": "An improved radiographic view of the glenohumeral joint. In addition to the standard views of the shoulder (external rotation, internal rotation, and axillary), a 40-degree posterior oblique and a 60-degree anterior oblique projection were used to evaluate 105 consecutive shoulder examinations. Of the 32 abnormal shoulders evaluated, the diagnosis was established 97% of the time with a single 40-degree posterior oblique view, as opposed to a 78% rate with the three standard views. The 40-degree posterior oblique view of the shoulder is especially useful in evaluating the glenohumeral joint.", "PMID": 457741} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12834", "title": "Radiographic gradation of lumbosacral dysgenesis.", "content": "The caudal dysgenesis syndrome comprises partial or complete agenesis of the lumbosacral vertebrae, as well as associated musculoskeletal, neurologic and visceral abnormalities. Maternal diabetes mellitus appears to be the most important etiologic factor, but for most patients the etiology is unknown. In the majority of cases, radiologic diagnosis is established readily, but minor degrees often coinciding with a serious urologic disease or a lower limb abnormality may be overlooked.", "contents": "Radiographic gradation of lumbosacral dysgenesis. The caudal dysgenesis syndrome comprises partial or complete agenesis of the lumbosacral vertebrae, as well as associated musculoskeletal, neurologic and visceral abnormalities. Maternal diabetes mellitus appears to be the most important etiologic factor, but for most patients the etiology is unknown. In the majority of cases, radiologic diagnosis is established readily, but minor degrees often coinciding with a serious urologic disease or a lower limb abnormality may be overlooked.", "PMID": 457742} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12835", "title": "Carpal involvement in inflammatory (erosive) osteoarthritis.", "content": "Inflammatory or erosive osteoarthritis, in addition to the classical digital distribution, may involve the carpus. Characteristic carpal changes are restricted to the radial aspect of the wrist and consist of narrowing, eburnation, osteophytosis, and mild subluxation of the first carpometacarpal and trapezio-scaphoid joints. Radiographic findings and differential diagnosis are discussed.", "contents": "Carpal involvement in inflammatory (erosive) osteoarthritis. Inflammatory or erosive osteoarthritis, in addition to the classical digital distribution, may involve the carpus. Characteristic carpal changes are restricted to the radial aspect of the wrist and consist of narrowing, eburnation, osteophytosis, and mild subluxation of the first carpometacarpal and trapezio-scaphoid joints. Radiographic findings and differential diagnosis are discussed.", "PMID": 457743} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12836", "title": "Lymphangiomas in children: report of 121 cases.", "content": "We reviewed 121 children with lymphangiomas. The commonest sites of involvement are the extremities and trunk followed by the head and neck. Four patients with unusual lymphangiomas are presented in some detail. Clinical and radiographic features may strongly suggest the presence of a lymphangioma.", "contents": "Lymphangiomas in children: report of 121 cases. We reviewed 121 children with lymphangiomas. The commonest sites of involvement are the extremities and trunk followed by the head and neck. Four patients with unusual lymphangiomas are presented in some detail. Clinical and radiographic features may strongly suggest the presence of a lymphangioma.", "PMID": 457744} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12837", "title": "The periodic association of MAP2 with brain microtubules in vitro.", "content": "Several high molecular weight polypeptides have been shown to quantitatively copurify with brain tubulin during cycles of in vitro assembly-disassembly. These microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) have been shown to influence the rate and extent of microtubule assembly in vitro. We report here that a heat-stable fraction highly enriched for one of the MAPs, MAP2 (mol wt approximately 300,000 daltons), devoid of MAP1 (mol wt approximately 350,000 daltons), has been purified from calf neurotubules. This MAP2 fraction stoichiometrically promotes microtubule assembly, lowering the critical concentration for tubulin assembly to 0.05 mg/ml. Microtubules saturated with MAP2 contain MAP2 and tubulin in a molar ratio of approximately 1 mole of MAP2 to 9 moles of tubulin dimer. Electron microscopy of thin sections of the MAP2-saturated microtubules fixed in the presence of tannic acid demonstrates a striking axial periodicity of 32 +/- 8 nm.", "contents": "The periodic association of MAP2 with brain microtubules in vitro. Several high molecular weight polypeptides have been shown to quantitatively copurify with brain tubulin during cycles of in vitro assembly-disassembly. These microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) have been shown to influence the rate and extent of microtubule assembly in vitro. We report here that a heat-stable fraction highly enriched for one of the MAPs, MAP2 (mol wt approximately 300,000 daltons), devoid of MAP1 (mol wt approximately 350,000 daltons), has been purified from calf neurotubules. This MAP2 fraction stoichiometrically promotes microtubule assembly, lowering the critical concentration for tubulin assembly to 0.05 mg/ml. Microtubules saturated with MAP2 contain MAP2 and tubulin in a molar ratio of approximately 1 mole of MAP2 to 9 moles of tubulin dimer. Electron microscopy of thin sections of the MAP2-saturated microtubules fixed in the presence of tannic acid demonstrates a striking axial periodicity of 32 +/- 8 nm.", "PMID": 457745} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12838", "title": "Mechanisms of transcription in nucleoli of amphibian oocytes as visualized by high-resolution autoradiography.", "content": "In oocytes of Pleurodeles waltlii, the method of Miller and Beatty has been combined with a method of high-resolution autoradiography especially suitable for the study of isolated molecules. In vitro labeling of RNA by tritiated precursors was carried out with increasing incubation times (1, 4, 15, 24, 48, and 72 h). Silver grains were present over ribonucleoprotein fibrils in amounts sufficient for quantitative analysis of nucleolar DNA transcription. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that: (a) The units of any one nucleolus exhibited a large degree of heterogeneity in their number of grains. (b) There was a parallelism between the increasing grain number and the ribonucleoprotein-fibril lengthening as observed along the transcription unit.", "contents": "Mechanisms of transcription in nucleoli of amphibian oocytes as visualized by high-resolution autoradiography. In oocytes of Pleurodeles waltlii, the method of Miller and Beatty has been combined with a method of high-resolution autoradiography especially suitable for the study of isolated molecules. In vitro labeling of RNA by tritiated precursors was carried out with increasing incubation times (1, 4, 15, 24, 48, and 72 h). Silver grains were present over ribonucleoprotein fibrils in amounts sufficient for quantitative analysis of nucleolar DNA transcription. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that: (a) The units of any one nucleolus exhibited a large degree of heterogeneity in their number of grains. (b) There was a parallelism between the increasing grain number and the ribonucleoprotein-fibril lengthening as observed along the transcription unit.", "PMID": 457746} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12839", "title": "Morphological studies of stimulated adrenergic axon varicosities in the mouse vas deferens.", "content": "The postganglionic axons of sympathetic neurons innervating the mouse vas deferens were stimulated transmurally in vitro by passing square pulses between two platinum electrodes. The ultrastructural appearance of the adrenergic nerve terminals was compared to samples fixed immediately after 30 min of stimulation and in samples allowed to recover for 2 h before fixation. The contralateral vasa deferentia served as controls, and these were incubated in Krebs solution for the same period as stimulated muscles. For each of four experiments, the mean number of large and small dense-core vesicles per square micrometer was calculated, as were the mean area and perimeter of the axon varicosities in each group. It was found that the number of small vesicles per square micrometer decreased by 60% during the stimulation period, but returned almost to control levels 2 h later. Large vesicles did not change in number during the stimulation or recovery periods. The proportion of vesicles containing cores was also determined for each group and found to decline just after stimulation in the small vesicle population, but to remain constant in the large vesicle population. The core depletion was partly reversed after 2 h. The vesicle recovery process was studied by use of the extracellular tracer horseradish peroxidase (HRP). When HRP was present in the extracellular space during stimulation, large numbers of vesicles contained the marker after recovery from stimulation. Thus, it is proposed that adrenergic axon varicosities recycle vesicle membrane through the plasma membrane in a manner similar to that already described for cholinergic nerve terminals.", "contents": "Morphological studies of stimulated adrenergic axon varicosities in the mouse vas deferens. The postganglionic axons of sympathetic neurons innervating the mouse vas deferens were stimulated transmurally in vitro by passing square pulses between two platinum electrodes. The ultrastructural appearance of the adrenergic nerve terminals was compared to samples fixed immediately after 30 min of stimulation and in samples allowed to recover for 2 h before fixation. The contralateral vasa deferentia served as controls, and these were incubated in Krebs solution for the same period as stimulated muscles. For each of four experiments, the mean number of large and small dense-core vesicles per square micrometer was calculated, as were the mean area and perimeter of the axon varicosities in each group. It was found that the number of small vesicles per square micrometer decreased by 60% during the stimulation period, but returned almost to control levels 2 h later. Large vesicles did not change in number during the stimulation or recovery periods. The proportion of vesicles containing cores was also determined for each group and found to decline just after stimulation in the small vesicle population, but to remain constant in the large vesicle population. The core depletion was partly reversed after 2 h. The vesicle recovery process was studied by use of the extracellular tracer horseradish peroxidase (HRP). When HRP was present in the extracellular space during stimulation, large numbers of vesicles contained the marker after recovery from stimulation. Thus, it is proposed that adrenergic axon varicosities recycle vesicle membrane through the plasma membrane in a manner similar to that already described for cholinergic nerve terminals.", "PMID": 457747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12840", "title": "Studies on the function of cell surface glycoproteins. I. Use of antisera to surface membranes in the identification of membrane components relevant to cell-substrate adhesion.", "content": "An antiserum prepared against purified surface membranes of transformed BHK21/C13 cells (C13/B4) reversibly rounded and detached hamster cells from plastic tissue culture plates but did not affect cells of other species. Antiserum treatment did not alter the growth rate of C13/B4 or BHK21/C13 cells; however, NIL-8 cells exposed to the antiserum detached from the substrate and stopped growing, but remained viable for up to 72 h in the presence of the antiserum. Rounding and detachment were not inhibited by DNP or cycloheximide. Antiserum-detached cells did not reattach in the presence of these inhibitors. F(ab)' fragments also induced rounding, thus ruling out the involvement of complement and ligand-induced rearrangement of surface antigens in rounding and detachment. Three different surface-reactive immunoglobulin preparations were used in indirect immunoprecipitation studies in an attempt to identify cell surface antigens involved in regulating adhesion and morphology. Antiserum against surface membranes (anti-M) and against material shed by the cells into serum-free medium (anti-SFM) caused rounding and detachment, but a third antiserum (anti-LIS) prepared against a partially purified glycoprotein did not. All three immunoglobulin preparations precipitated glycoproteins with an apparent mol wt of 120,000 daltons from a crude membrane preparation solubilized by Nonidet NP-40. The two immunoglobulin preparations that caused rounding precipitated an additional glycoprotein peak of 140,000 daltons. Extensive preabsorption of the extract with anti-LIS immunoglobulin enriched the anti-membrane and antiserum-free medium precipitates for the 140,000-dalton peak. Anti-M immunoglobulin eluted from intact cells and subsequently used to precipitate NP-40 solubilized membrane constituents also reacted with a group of glycoproteins of approximately 140,000 mol wt. Therefore, this group of glycoproteins was considered most likely to be the glycoproteins involved in substrate adhesion and maintenance of cellular morphology.", "contents": "Studies on the function of cell surface glycoproteins. I. Use of antisera to surface membranes in the identification of membrane components relevant to cell-substrate adhesion. An antiserum prepared against purified surface membranes of transformed BHK21/C13 cells (C13/B4) reversibly rounded and detached hamster cells from plastic tissue culture plates but did not affect cells of other species. Antiserum treatment did not alter the growth rate of C13/B4 or BHK21/C13 cells; however, NIL-8 cells exposed to the antiserum detached from the substrate and stopped growing, but remained viable for up to 72 h in the presence of the antiserum. Rounding and detachment were not inhibited by DNP or cycloheximide. Antiserum-detached cells did not reattach in the presence of these inhibitors. F(ab)' fragments also induced rounding, thus ruling out the involvement of complement and ligand-induced rearrangement of surface antigens in rounding and detachment. Three different surface-reactive immunoglobulin preparations were used in indirect immunoprecipitation studies in an attempt to identify cell surface antigens involved in regulating adhesion and morphology. Antiserum against surface membranes (anti-M) and against material shed by the cells into serum-free medium (anti-SFM) caused rounding and detachment, but a third antiserum (anti-LIS) prepared against a partially purified glycoprotein did not. All three immunoglobulin preparations precipitated glycoproteins with an apparent mol wt of 120,000 daltons from a crude membrane preparation solubilized by Nonidet NP-40. The two immunoglobulin preparations that caused rounding precipitated an additional glycoprotein peak of 140,000 daltons. Extensive preabsorption of the extract with anti-LIS immunoglobulin enriched the anti-membrane and antiserum-free medium precipitates for the 140,000-dalton peak. Anti-M immunoglobulin eluted from intact cells and subsequently used to precipitate NP-40 solubilized membrane constituents also reacted with a group of glycoproteins of approximately 140,000 mol wt. Therefore, this group of glycoproteins was considered most likely to be the glycoproteins involved in substrate adhesion and maintenance of cellular morphology.", "PMID": 457748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12841", "title": "Studies on the function of cell surface glycoproteins. II. Possible role of surface glycoproteins in the control of cytoskeletal organization and surface morphology.", "content": "Immunoglobulin from goat antiserum directed against purified surface membranes from transformed BHK21/C13 cells (anti-M) has been shown to cause both control and transformed hamster cells to round and detach from the substrate (see accompanying paper). This paper documents the effects of the antiserum on the cytoskeletal organization and cell surface morphology of control BHK21/C13 cells examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. As a result of antiserum-induced rounding, the normally smooth cell surface becomes covered with filopodia and blebs, and the organization of all three components of the filamentous cytoskeleton is altered. In terms of cell surface morphology and cytoskeletal organization, the cells resemble rounded, postmitotic or trypsinized BHK cells rather than cells treated with either anticytoskeletal drugs or lectins. Immunocytochemical and radioimmune assay experiments support the suggestion that the rounding reaction induced by anti-M serum results from the specific interaction of antibodies with molecules on the cell surface. It is suggested that anti-M serum induces alterations in cytoskeletal organization via a transmembrane signal and that cytoskeletal reorganization is a fundamental part of the rounding and detachment process.", "contents": "Studies on the function of cell surface glycoproteins. II. Possible role of surface glycoproteins in the control of cytoskeletal organization and surface morphology. Immunoglobulin from goat antiserum directed against purified surface membranes from transformed BHK21/C13 cells (anti-M) has been shown to cause both control and transformed hamster cells to round and detach from the substrate (see accompanying paper). This paper documents the effects of the antiserum on the cytoskeletal organization and cell surface morphology of control BHK21/C13 cells examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. As a result of antiserum-induced rounding, the normally smooth cell surface becomes covered with filopodia and blebs, and the organization of all three components of the filamentous cytoskeleton is altered. In terms of cell surface morphology and cytoskeletal organization, the cells resemble rounded, postmitotic or trypsinized BHK cells rather than cells treated with either anticytoskeletal drugs or lectins. Immunocytochemical and radioimmune assay experiments support the suggestion that the rounding reaction induced by anti-M serum results from the specific interaction of antibodies with molecules on the cell surface. It is suggested that anti-M serum induces alterations in cytoskeletal organization via a transmembrane signal and that cytoskeletal reorganization is a fundamental part of the rounding and detachment process.", "PMID": 457749} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12842", "title": "Binding and uptake of 125I-insulin into rat liver hepatocytes and endothelium. An in vivo radioautographic study.", "content": "Electron microscope radioautography has been used to study hormone-receptor interaction. At intervals of 3, 10, and 20 min after the injection of 125I-insulin, free hormone was separated from bound hormone by whole body perfusion with modified Ringer's solution. The localization of bound hormone, fixed in situ by perfusion with glutaraldehyde, was determined. At 3 min, 125I-insulin has been shown to be exclusively localized to the hepatocyte plasmalemma (Bergeron et al., 1977, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A., 74:5051--5055). In the present study, quantitation indicated that 10(5) receptors were present per cell and distributed equally along the sinusoidal and lateral segments of the hepatocyte plasmalemma. At later times, label was found in the Golgi region. At 10 min, both secretory elements of the Golgi apparatus and lysosome-like vacuoles were labeled, and at 20 min the label was especially concentrated over the latter vacuoles. Acid phosphatase cytochemistry showed that the vacuoles did not react and therefore were presumed not to be lysosomal. These Golgi vacuoles may constitute a compartment involved in the initial degradation and/or site of action of the hormone. Control experiments were carried out at all time intervals and consisted of parallel injections of radiolabeled insulin with excess unlabeled hormone. At all times in controls, label was diminished over hepatocytes and was found primarily over endothelial cells and within the macropinocytotic vesicles and dense bodies of these cells. Kupffer cells and lipocytes were unlabeled after the injection of 125I-insulin with or without excess unlabeled insulin.", "contents": "Binding and uptake of 125I-insulin into rat liver hepatocytes and endothelium. An in vivo radioautographic study. Electron microscope radioautography has been used to study hormone-receptor interaction. At intervals of 3, 10, and 20 min after the injection of 125I-insulin, free hormone was separated from bound hormone by whole body perfusion with modified Ringer's solution. The localization of bound hormone, fixed in situ by perfusion with glutaraldehyde, was determined. At 3 min, 125I-insulin has been shown to be exclusively localized to the hepatocyte plasmalemma (Bergeron et al., 1977, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A., 74:5051--5055). In the present study, quantitation indicated that 10(5) receptors were present per cell and distributed equally along the sinusoidal and lateral segments of the hepatocyte plasmalemma. At later times, label was found in the Golgi region. At 10 min, both secretory elements of the Golgi apparatus and lysosome-like vacuoles were labeled, and at 20 min the label was especially concentrated over the latter vacuoles. Acid phosphatase cytochemistry showed that the vacuoles did not react and therefore were presumed not to be lysosomal. These Golgi vacuoles may constitute a compartment involved in the initial degradation and/or site of action of the hormone. Control experiments were carried out at all time intervals and consisted of parallel injections of radiolabeled insulin with excess unlabeled hormone. At all times in controls, label was diminished over hepatocytes and was found primarily over endothelial cells and within the macropinocytotic vesicles and dense bodies of these cells. Kupffer cells and lipocytes were unlabeled after the injection of 125I-insulin with or without excess unlabeled insulin.", "PMID": 457750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12843", "title": "Element concentration changes in mitotically active and postmitotic enterocytes. An x-ray microanalysis study.", "content": "Unfixed freeze-dried and uncoated tissue sections of the mouse duodenum were suspended across a hole in a carbon planchet and analyzed in a scanning electron microscope fitted with energy-dispersive x-ray analytical equipment. Computer analysis of the x-ray spectra allowed elemental microanalysis of the nucleus, cytoplasm, and late anaphase-early telophase chromatin regions in the cryptal and villus enterocytes. Elemental concentrations (mmol/kg dry wt) were measured for Na, Mg, P, S, Cl, K, and Ca. None of the elements were compartmentalized preferentially in either the nucleus or the cytoplasm of interphase enterocytes of crypts or in postmitotic enterocytes of villi. In contrast, Ca, S, and Cl are detectable in significantly higher concentrations in mitotic chromatin of dividing enterocytes of the crypt as compared to surrounding mitotic cytoplasm, but Na, Mg, and P are in lower concentrations in the mitotic chromatin as compared to mitotic cytoplasm. Interphase enterocytes of crypts have higher concentrations of Mg, P, and K, and lower concentrations of Na than do postmitotic enterocytes of villi.", "contents": "Element concentration changes in mitotically active and postmitotic enterocytes. An x-ray microanalysis study. Unfixed freeze-dried and uncoated tissue sections of the mouse duodenum were suspended across a hole in a carbon planchet and analyzed in a scanning electron microscope fitted with energy-dispersive x-ray analytical equipment. Computer analysis of the x-ray spectra allowed elemental microanalysis of the nucleus, cytoplasm, and late anaphase-early telophase chromatin regions in the cryptal and villus enterocytes. Elemental concentrations (mmol/kg dry wt) were measured for Na, Mg, P, S, Cl, K, and Ca. None of the elements were compartmentalized preferentially in either the nucleus or the cytoplasm of interphase enterocytes of crypts or in postmitotic enterocytes of villi. In contrast, Ca, S, and Cl are detectable in significantly higher concentrations in mitotic chromatin of dividing enterocytes of the crypt as compared to surrounding mitotic cytoplasm, but Na, Mg, and P are in lower concentrations in the mitotic chromatin as compared to mitotic cytoplasm. Interphase enterocytes of crypts have higher concentrations of Mg, P, and K, and lower concentrations of Na than do postmitotic enterocytes of villi.", "PMID": 457751} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12844", "title": "Quantitative conservation of chromatin-bound RNA polymerases I and II in mitosis. Implications for chromosome structure.", "content": "RNA synthesis almost ceases in mitosis. It is ambiguous whether this temporal, negative control of RNA synthesis is solely because of the nature of chromosomes per se, (i.e., their condensed state), or to a physical loss of RNA polymerases along with other nuclear proteins which have been shown to pass into the cytoplasm in mitosis, or to their combined feature. Aside from such regulatory considerations, a question has also been raised as to whether RNA polymerases are constituents of metaphase chromosomes. To clarify these aspects of RNA polymerase-chromatin interaction in mitosis, the enzymes in chromosomes were quantitated and their levels compared to those in interphase nuclei and cells at various phases of the cell cycle. The results show that the amounts of form I, form II, and probably form III enzymes bound to a genome-equivalent of chromatin stay constant during the cell cycle. Thus, the mechanism for the negative control of RNA synthesis in mitosis appears to exist in the chromosomes per se, but not to be directly related to the RNA polymerase levels. This quantitative conservation of chromatin-bound RNA polymerases implies that they may persist as structural components of the chromosomes in mitosis.", "contents": "Quantitative conservation of chromatin-bound RNA polymerases I and II in mitosis. Implications for chromosome structure. RNA synthesis almost ceases in mitosis. It is ambiguous whether this temporal, negative control of RNA synthesis is solely because of the nature of chromosomes per se, (i.e., their condensed state), or to a physical loss of RNA polymerases along with other nuclear proteins which have been shown to pass into the cytoplasm in mitosis, or to their combined feature. Aside from such regulatory considerations, a question has also been raised as to whether RNA polymerases are constituents of metaphase chromosomes. To clarify these aspects of RNA polymerase-chromatin interaction in mitosis, the enzymes in chromosomes were quantitated and their levels compared to those in interphase nuclei and cells at various phases of the cell cycle. The results show that the amounts of form I, form II, and probably form III enzymes bound to a genome-equivalent of chromatin stay constant during the cell cycle. Thus, the mechanism for the negative control of RNA synthesis in mitosis appears to exist in the chromosomes per se, but not to be directly related to the RNA polymerase levels. This quantitative conservation of chromatin-bound RNA polymerases implies that they may persist as structural components of the chromosomes in mitosis.", "PMID": 457752} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12845", "title": "The role of actin in temperature-dependent gel-sol transformation of extracts of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells.", "content": "Ehrlich ascites tumor cell extracts form a gel when warmed to 25 degrees C at pH 7.0 in sucrose solution, and the gel rapidly becomes a sol when cooled to 0 degrees C. This gel-sol transformation was studied quantitatively by determining the volume or the total protein of pellets of gel obtained by low-speed centrifugation. The gelation depended on nucleotide triphosphates, Mg2+, KCl, and a reducing agent. Gelation was inhibited reversibly by 0.5 microM free Ca2+, and 25--50 ng/ml of either cytochalasin B or D, but it was not affected by 10 mM colchicine. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the gel was composed of six major proteins with mol wt greater than 300,000, 270,000, 89,000, 51,000, 48,000, and 42,000 daltons. The last component was identified as cell actin because it had the same molecular weight as muscle actin and bound with muscle myosin and tropomyosin. The role of actin in gelation was studied by use of actin-inhibitors. Gelation was inhibited by a chemically modified subfragment-1 of myosin, which binds with F-actin even in the presence of ATP, and by bovine pancreatic DNase I, which tightly binds with G-actin. Muscle G-actin neutralized the inhibitory effect of DNase I when added at an equimolar ratio to the latter, and it also restored gelation after its inhibition by DNase I. These findings suggest that gelation depends on actin. However, the extracts showed temperature-dependent, cytochalasin-sensitive, and Ca2+-regulated gelation as did the original extracts when the cell actin in the extracts was replaced by muscle actin, suggesting that components other than cell actin might be responsible for these characteristics of the gelation.", "contents": "The role of actin in temperature-dependent gel-sol transformation of extracts of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. Ehrlich ascites tumor cell extracts form a gel when warmed to 25 degrees C at pH 7.0 in sucrose solution, and the gel rapidly becomes a sol when cooled to 0 degrees C. This gel-sol transformation was studied quantitatively by determining the volume or the total protein of pellets of gel obtained by low-speed centrifugation. The gelation depended on nucleotide triphosphates, Mg2+, KCl, and a reducing agent. Gelation was inhibited reversibly by 0.5 microM free Ca2+, and 25--50 ng/ml of either cytochalasin B or D, but it was not affected by 10 mM colchicine. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the gel was composed of six major proteins with mol wt greater than 300,000, 270,000, 89,000, 51,000, 48,000, and 42,000 daltons. The last component was identified as cell actin because it had the same molecular weight as muscle actin and bound with muscle myosin and tropomyosin. The role of actin in gelation was studied by use of actin-inhibitors. Gelation was inhibited by a chemically modified subfragment-1 of myosin, which binds with F-actin even in the presence of ATP, and by bovine pancreatic DNase I, which tightly binds with G-actin. Muscle G-actin neutralized the inhibitory effect of DNase I when added at an equimolar ratio to the latter, and it also restored gelation after its inhibition by DNase I. These findings suggest that gelation depends on actin. However, the extracts showed temperature-dependent, cytochalasin-sensitive, and Ca2+-regulated gelation as did the original extracts when the cell actin in the extracts was replaced by muscle actin, suggesting that components other than cell actin might be responsible for these characteristics of the gelation.", "PMID": 457753} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12846", "title": "Domains of receptor mobility and endocytosis in the membranes of neonatal human erythrocytes and reticulocytes are deficient in spectrin.", "content": "It has previously shown (Schekman, R., and S.J. Singer, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 73:4075-4079) that receptors in the membranes of neonatal human erythrocytes show a restricted degree of lateral mobility, whereas in adult human erythrocytes the receptors are essentially immobile. This restricted mobility is exhibited, for example, when concanavalin A (Con A) induces a limited clustering of its receptors in the neonatal erythrocyte membrane, resulting in the formation of invaginations and endocytic vesicles. This does not happen with adult cells. By the use of indirect immunoferritin labeling of ultrathin frozen sections of Con A-treated neonatal blood cells, we now show that the invaginations and endocytotic vesicles do not stain for spectrin, whereas the adjacent unperturbed membrane is heavily stained. The reticulocytes in the neonatal cell population undergo substantially more Con A-induced invagination and endocytosis than do the erythrocytes. These results lend strong support to the hypothesis that specialized discrete domains exist, or are induced, in the membranes of these neonatal cells, in which receptors are laterally mobile, whereas in the remaining (and predominant) part of the membrane the receptors are immobile. Such mobile domains are characterized by an absence of spectrin. During the maturation of the neonatal reticulocyte to erythrocyte, it is proposed that these domains are in large part, but not completely, eliminated.", "contents": "Domains of receptor mobility and endocytosis in the membranes of neonatal human erythrocytes and reticulocytes are deficient in spectrin. It has previously shown (Schekman, R., and S.J. Singer, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 73:4075-4079) that receptors in the membranes of neonatal human erythrocytes show a restricted degree of lateral mobility, whereas in adult human erythrocytes the receptors are essentially immobile. This restricted mobility is exhibited, for example, when concanavalin A (Con A) induces a limited clustering of its receptors in the neonatal erythrocyte membrane, resulting in the formation of invaginations and endocytic vesicles. This does not happen with adult cells. By the use of indirect immunoferritin labeling of ultrathin frozen sections of Con A-treated neonatal blood cells, we now show that the invaginations and endocytotic vesicles do not stain for spectrin, whereas the adjacent unperturbed membrane is heavily stained. The reticulocytes in the neonatal cell population undergo substantially more Con A-induced invagination and endocytosis than do the erythrocytes. These results lend strong support to the hypothesis that specialized discrete domains exist, or are induced, in the membranes of these neonatal cells, in which receptors are laterally mobile, whereas in the remaining (and predominant) part of the membrane the receptors are immobile. Such mobile domains are characterized by an absence of spectrin. During the maturation of the neonatal reticulocyte to erythrocyte, it is proposed that these domains are in large part, but not completely, eliminated.", "PMID": 457754} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12847", "title": "Concanavalin A-induced endocytosis in rabbit reticulocytes, and its decrease with reticulocyte maturation.", "content": "Concanavalin A (Con A) was taken up to a limited extent by endocytosis in rabbit reticulocytes but not in rabbit erythrocytes. This process was observed by the use of ferritin-labeled Con A and transmission electron microscopy of thin sections of plastic-embedded cells. Furthermore, the extent of endocytosis among the reticulocytes decreased with the extent of their maturation, reticulocyte age being measured by ribosome configurations. These results are consistent with the proposal that there are domains in the membranes of reticulocytes in which the Con A receptors are laterally mobile, and can be clustered and endocytosed. These mobile domains exist, or are formed, within a larger framework of immobile membrane. During reticulocyte maturation, these domains are gradually eliminated, eventually disappearing upon formation of the mature erythrocyte. Possible molecular mechanisms for this proposed elimination process are discussed.", "contents": "Concanavalin A-induced endocytosis in rabbit reticulocytes, and its decrease with reticulocyte maturation. Concanavalin A (Con A) was taken up to a limited extent by endocytosis in rabbit reticulocytes but not in rabbit erythrocytes. This process was observed by the use of ferritin-labeled Con A and transmission electron microscopy of thin sections of plastic-embedded cells. Furthermore, the extent of endocytosis among the reticulocytes decreased with the extent of their maturation, reticulocyte age being measured by ribosome configurations. These results are consistent with the proposal that there are domains in the membranes of reticulocytes in which the Con A receptors are laterally mobile, and can be clustered and endocytosed. These mobile domains exist, or are formed, within a larger framework of immobile membrane. During reticulocyte maturation, these domains are gradually eliminated, eventually disappearing upon formation of the mature erythrocyte. Possible molecular mechanisms for this proposed elimination process are discussed.", "PMID": 457755} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12848", "title": "Fibroblast cellular and plasma fibronectins are similar but not identical.", "content": "Fibronectins are multimeric, adhesive glycoproteins present on cell surfaces and circulating in blood. Cellular fibronectin produced by fibroblasts in vitro and fibronectin isolated from plasma are known to be very similar immunologically and biochemically. We investigated whether or not they are identifical. Purified chicken and human cell-surface fibronectins are 150-fold more active in hemagglutination of fixed erythrocytes than plasma fibronectins. Cell-surface fibronectin is also 50-fold more active in restoring a more normal morphology to transformed cells originally missing the protein. However, in two other assays that measure cell attachment to collagen and cell spreading, cell-surface and plasma fibronectins have identical specific activities. In sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels, the subunits of human and chicken plasma fibronectins have significantly smaller apparent subunit molecular weights than cellular fibronectins present on cell surfaces or secreted into culture media. These differences are also present in a characteristic large subfragment of both forms of fibronectin after limited proteolysis by trypsin. We conclude that by both biological and biochemical criteria, cellular and plasma fibronectins are similar but not identical.", "contents": "Fibroblast cellular and plasma fibronectins are similar but not identical. Fibronectins are multimeric, adhesive glycoproteins present on cell surfaces and circulating in blood. Cellular fibronectin produced by fibroblasts in vitro and fibronectin isolated from plasma are known to be very similar immunologically and biochemically. We investigated whether or not they are identifical. Purified chicken and human cell-surface fibronectins are 150-fold more active in hemagglutination of fixed erythrocytes than plasma fibronectins. Cell-surface fibronectin is also 50-fold more active in restoring a more normal morphology to transformed cells originally missing the protein. However, in two other assays that measure cell attachment to collagen and cell spreading, cell-surface and plasma fibronectins have identical specific activities. In sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels, the subunits of human and chicken plasma fibronectins have significantly smaller apparent subunit molecular weights than cellular fibronectins present on cell surfaces or secreted into culture media. These differences are also present in a characteristic large subfragment of both forms of fibronectin after limited proteolysis by trypsin. We conclude that by both biological and biochemical criteria, cellular and plasma fibronectins are similar but not identical.", "PMID": 457756} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12849", "title": "Motility of the microtubular axostyle in Pyrsonympha.", "content": "The rhythmic movement of the microtubular axostyle in the termite flagellate, Pyrsonympha vertens, was analyzed with polarization and electron microscopy. The protozoan axostyle is birefringent as a result of the semi-crystalline alignment of approximately 2,000 microtubules. The birefringence of the organelle permits analysis of the beat pattern in vivo. Modifications of the beat pattern were achieved with visible and UV microbeam irradiation. The beating axostyle is helically twisted and has two principal movements, one resembling ciliary and the other flagellar beating. The anterior portion of the beating axostyle has effective and recovery phases with each beat thereby simulating the flexural motion of a beating cilium. Undulations develop from the flexural flipping motion of the anterior segment and travel along the axostyle like flagellar waves. The shape of the waves differs from that of flagellar waves, however, and are described as sawtooth waves. The propagating sawtooth waves contain a sharp bend, approximately 3 micron in length, made up of two opposing flexures followed by a straight helical segment approximately 23 micron long. The average wavelength is approximately 25 micron, and three to four sawtooth waves travel along the axostyle at one time. The bends are nearly planar and can travel in either direction along the axostyle with equal velocity. At temperatures between 5 degrees and 30 degrees C, one sees a proportionate increase or decrease in wave propagation velocity as the temperature is raised or lowered. Beating stops below 5 degrees C but will resume if the preparation is warmed. A microbeam of visible light shone on a small segment of the axostyle causes the typical sawtooth waves to transform into short sine-like waves that accumulate in the area irradiated. Waves entering the affected region appear to stimulate waves already accumulated there to move, and waves that emerge take on the normal sawtooth wave pattern. The effective wavelengths of visible light capable of modifying the wave pattern is in the blue region of the spectrum. The axostyle is severed when irradiated with an intense microbeam of UV light. Short segments of axostyle produced by severing it at two places with a UV microbeam can curl upon themselves into shapes resembling lockwashers. We propose that the sawtooth waves in the axostyle of P. vertens are generated by interrow cross-bridges which are active in the straight regions.", "contents": "Motility of the microtubular axostyle in Pyrsonympha. The rhythmic movement of the microtubular axostyle in the termite flagellate, Pyrsonympha vertens, was analyzed with polarization and electron microscopy. The protozoan axostyle is birefringent as a result of the semi-crystalline alignment of approximately 2,000 microtubules. The birefringence of the organelle permits analysis of the beat pattern in vivo. Modifications of the beat pattern were achieved with visible and UV microbeam irradiation. The beating axostyle is helically twisted and has two principal movements, one resembling ciliary and the other flagellar beating. The anterior portion of the beating axostyle has effective and recovery phases with each beat thereby simulating the flexural motion of a beating cilium. Undulations develop from the flexural flipping motion of the anterior segment and travel along the axostyle like flagellar waves. The shape of the waves differs from that of flagellar waves, however, and are described as sawtooth waves. The propagating sawtooth waves contain a sharp bend, approximately 3 micron in length, made up of two opposing flexures followed by a straight helical segment approximately 23 micron long. The average wavelength is approximately 25 micron, and three to four sawtooth waves travel along the axostyle at one time. The bends are nearly planar and can travel in either direction along the axostyle with equal velocity. At temperatures between 5 degrees and 30 degrees C, one sees a proportionate increase or decrease in wave propagation velocity as the temperature is raised or lowered. Beating stops below 5 degrees C but will resume if the preparation is warmed. A microbeam of visible light shone on a small segment of the axostyle causes the typical sawtooth waves to transform into short sine-like waves that accumulate in the area irradiated. Waves entering the affected region appear to stimulate waves already accumulated there to move, and waves that emerge take on the normal sawtooth wave pattern. The effective wavelengths of visible light capable of modifying the wave pattern is in the blue region of the spectrum. The axostyle is severed when irradiated with an intense microbeam of UV light. Short segments of axostyle produced by severing it at two places with a UV microbeam can curl upon themselves into shapes resembling lockwashers. We propose that the sawtooth waves in the axostyle of P. vertens are generated by interrow cross-bridges which are active in the straight regions.", "PMID": 457757} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12850", "title": "Electrophysiological recordings from spontaneously contracting reaggregates of cultured smooth muscle cells from guinea pig vas deferens.", "content": "Smooth muscle cells were enzymatically dispersed from vasa deferentia of adult male guinea pigs (250-400 g). These cells reassociated in vitro to form monolayers and small spherical reaggregates (0.05-0.3 mm in Diam). Within 48 h of being placed in culture, cells in both types of preparation began to contract spontaneously. The contractions were rhythmic and slow. Cells in the monolayers stopped contracting after approximately 1 wk in vitro, but the reaggregates continued to contract spontaneously for at least 3 wk. Electron microscopy of the reaggregates revealed the presence of thick and thin myofilaments. Overshooting action potentials were recorded in many of the cells penetrated (primarily in reaggregates), and were accompanied by visible contractions of the aggregate or monolayer. Quiescent cells could often be excited by intracellularly applied depolarizing and hyperpolarizing (anodal-break) current pulses. The resting potentials had a mean value of -58 +/- 2 mV. The action potentials were usually preceded by a spontaneous depolarization. The action potentials had slow rates of rise (1--4 V/s) which were unaffected by tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 microgram/ml), a known blocker of fast Na+ -channels. Verapamil (1 microgram/ml) blocked the action potentials. The mean value of input resistance was 6.9 +/- 0.5 M omega (n = 12). These electrophysiological properties are similar to those of intact adult vas deferens smooth muscle cells. Thus, the cultured adult vas deferens smooth muscle cells retain their functional properties in vitro even after long periods.", "contents": "Electrophysiological recordings from spontaneously contracting reaggregates of cultured smooth muscle cells from guinea pig vas deferens. Smooth muscle cells were enzymatically dispersed from vasa deferentia of adult male guinea pigs (250-400 g). These cells reassociated in vitro to form monolayers and small spherical reaggregates (0.05-0.3 mm in Diam). Within 48 h of being placed in culture, cells in both types of preparation began to contract spontaneously. The contractions were rhythmic and slow. Cells in the monolayers stopped contracting after approximately 1 wk in vitro, but the reaggregates continued to contract spontaneously for at least 3 wk. Electron microscopy of the reaggregates revealed the presence of thick and thin myofilaments. Overshooting action potentials were recorded in many of the cells penetrated (primarily in reaggregates), and were accompanied by visible contractions of the aggregate or monolayer. Quiescent cells could often be excited by intracellularly applied depolarizing and hyperpolarizing (anodal-break) current pulses. The resting potentials had a mean value of -58 +/- 2 mV. The action potentials were usually preceded by a spontaneous depolarization. The action potentials had slow rates of rise (1--4 V/s) which were unaffected by tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 microgram/ml), a known blocker of fast Na+ -channels. Verapamil (1 microgram/ml) blocked the action potentials. The mean value of input resistance was 6.9 +/- 0.5 M omega (n = 12). These electrophysiological properties are similar to those of intact adult vas deferens smooth muscle cells. Thus, the cultured adult vas deferens smooth muscle cells retain their functional properties in vitro even after long periods.", "PMID": 457758} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12851", "title": "Microtubule protein preparations from C6 glial cells and their spontaneous polymer formation.", "content": "C6 cell tubulin is indistinguishable from hog brain tubulin with respect to its molecular weight, amino acid composition, and colchicine-binding activity. Moreover, microtubule assembly systems from both sources form the same structures: rings, ribbons, tubules, and drug-induced polymers. There is, nevertheless, a difference between the cultured cell and brain systems which lies in the nature of their microtubule-associated accessory proteins. C6 microtubule preparations exhibit few rings at 0 degrees C, have low polymerization yield, and have a low content of accessory proteins. The addition of brain accessory proteins enhances the numbers of rings, and the yield of microtubules, to levels comparable with those of brain preparations. The polymerizing ability of C6 microtubule protein decays much faster than that of brain, but it can be restored by the addition of brain accessory protein. The results suggest that C6 accessory proteins are more labile than their brain counterparts.", "contents": "Microtubule protein preparations from C6 glial cells and their spontaneous polymer formation. C6 cell tubulin is indistinguishable from hog brain tubulin with respect to its molecular weight, amino acid composition, and colchicine-binding activity. Moreover, microtubule assembly systems from both sources form the same structures: rings, ribbons, tubules, and drug-induced polymers. There is, nevertheless, a difference between the cultured cell and brain systems which lies in the nature of their microtubule-associated accessory proteins. C6 microtubule preparations exhibit few rings at 0 degrees C, have low polymerization yield, and have a low content of accessory proteins. The addition of brain accessory proteins enhances the numbers of rings, and the yield of microtubules, to levels comparable with those of brain preparations. The polymerizing ability of C6 microtubule protein decays much faster than that of brain, but it can be restored by the addition of brain accessory protein. The results suggest that C6 accessory proteins are more labile than their brain counterparts.", "PMID": 457759} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12852", "title": "Selective neutrophil desensitization to chemotactic factors.", "content": "In the presence of extracellular calcium and magnesium, a series of chemotactic oligopeptides and C5a caused aggregation of human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). This cellular response developed rapidly and began to reverse 2 min after exposure to the chemotactin. In the absence of the bivalent cations, none of the chemotactins stimulated the aggregation response. If cells were first exposed to a chemotactin and then treated with calcium and magnesium, aggregation was detected only after addition of the cations, and the magnitude of the response fell sharply as the interval between the addition of chemotactin and addition of cations was lengthened: when this interval exceeded 2 min, aggregation was barely detectable. This loss of reactivity persisted even when cells were re-exposed to fresh chemotactic factor and washed between the first and second exposures. In all instances, however, loss of cellular reactivity was highly selective: cells preincubated with any chemotactic oligopeptide were hyporesponsive to subsequent stimulation with an oligopeptide but remained fully responsive to C5a; cells preincubated with C5A were hyporesponsive to C5a but retained their responsitivity to the oligopeptides. Because this selectivity parallels the known specificities of these chemotactic factors for their receptors in or on the neutrophil, desensitization may reflect functional loss of receptors after stimulation. Alternatively, this selectivity may indicate that morphologically identical neutrophils contain subpopulations of cells with varying reactivities to receptor-bound chemotactic factors. In either event, desensitization may be useful in functionally defining chemotactic factors and their respective receptors. The rapidity of development of desensitization suggests that it may operate to limit or moderate various in vitro and in vivo neutrophil responses to chemotactic factors.", "contents": "Selective neutrophil desensitization to chemotactic factors. In the presence of extracellular calcium and magnesium, a series of chemotactic oligopeptides and C5a caused aggregation of human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). This cellular response developed rapidly and began to reverse 2 min after exposure to the chemotactin. In the absence of the bivalent cations, none of the chemotactins stimulated the aggregation response. If cells were first exposed to a chemotactin and then treated with calcium and magnesium, aggregation was detected only after addition of the cations, and the magnitude of the response fell sharply as the interval between the addition of chemotactin and addition of cations was lengthened: when this interval exceeded 2 min, aggregation was barely detectable. This loss of reactivity persisted even when cells were re-exposed to fresh chemotactic factor and washed between the first and second exposures. In all instances, however, loss of cellular reactivity was highly selective: cells preincubated with any chemotactic oligopeptide were hyporesponsive to subsequent stimulation with an oligopeptide but remained fully responsive to C5a; cells preincubated with C5A were hyporesponsive to C5a but retained their responsitivity to the oligopeptides. Because this selectivity parallels the known specificities of these chemotactic factors for their receptors in or on the neutrophil, desensitization may reflect functional loss of receptors after stimulation. Alternatively, this selectivity may indicate that morphologically identical neutrophils contain subpopulations of cells with varying reactivities to receptor-bound chemotactic factors. In either event, desensitization may be useful in functionally defining chemotactic factors and their respective receptors. The rapidity of development of desensitization suggests that it may operate to limit or moderate various in vitro and in vivo neutrophil responses to chemotactic factors.", "PMID": 457760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12853", "title": "Active movements of the chromatoid body. A possible transport mechanism for haploid gene products.", "content": "Recent data indicate that the chromatoid body typical of rat spermatogenesis may contain RNA synthesized in early spermatids by the haploid genome. Analyses of living step-1 and step-3 spermatids by time-lapse cinephotomicrography have shown that the chromatoid body moves in relation to the nuclear envelope in two different ways. Predominantly in step 1, the chromatoid body moves along the nuclear envelope on a wide area surrounding the Golgi complex and has frequent transient contacts with the latter organelle. In step 3, the chromatoid body was shown to move perpendicular to the nuclear envelope. It was seen located very transiently at the top of prominent outpocketings of the nuclear envelope with apparent material continuities through nuclear pore complexes to intranuclear particles. The rapid movements of the chromatoid body are suggested to play a role in the transport of haploid gene products in the early spermatids, including probably nucleocytoplasmic RNA transport.", "contents": "Active movements of the chromatoid body. A possible transport mechanism for haploid gene products. Recent data indicate that the chromatoid body typical of rat spermatogenesis may contain RNA synthesized in early spermatids by the haploid genome. Analyses of living step-1 and step-3 spermatids by time-lapse cinephotomicrography have shown that the chromatoid body moves in relation to the nuclear envelope in two different ways. Predominantly in step 1, the chromatoid body moves along the nuclear envelope on a wide area surrounding the Golgi complex and has frequent transient contacts with the latter organelle. In step 3, the chromatoid body was shown to move perpendicular to the nuclear envelope. It was seen located very transiently at the top of prominent outpocketings of the nuclear envelope with apparent material continuities through nuclear pore complexes to intranuclear particles. The rapid movements of the chromatoid body are suggested to play a role in the transport of haploid gene products in the early spermatids, including probably nucleocytoplasmic RNA transport.", "PMID": 457761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12854", "title": "Ligatin from embryonic chick neural retina.", "content": "Ligatin, a filamentous protein previously found in suckling rat ileum, has been purified from plasma membranes of embryonic chick neural retina. The isolated plasma membranes are covered in part by 4.5-nm filaments that can be released from the membranes by treatment with Ca++. Subsequent dialysis against EGTA followed by sieve chromatography results in purification of the 10,000-dalton ligatin monomer. When labeled either with radioisotopes or with fluorescamine, the monomer is shown to electrophorese as a single discrete band in polyacrylamide gels. However, during standard fixing and staining procedures it diffuses from the gels and thus is not visualized. Ligatin's amino acid composition is distinguished by its high content of polar residues, especially Glx and Asx, and by the presence of phosphorylated serine. Upon re-addition of Ca++, purified ligatin monomers polymerize to form filaments 3 nm in Diam, identical to those formed by purified ileal ligatin. However, in both retina and ileum, the filaments observed on plasma membranes are greater than 3 nm in Diam. In ileum, this enlargement results from ligatin's function as a baseplate for the attachment of another protein, a beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase, to the cell surface. In retina, a corresponding difference in diameter between filaments seen in vivo and those formed from repolymerized ligatin alone and the co-solubilization of other proteins with ligatin suggest that ligatin may also function there as a baseplate for other cell surface proteins. The proteins associated with ligatin in retina differ morphologically from beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase and do not possess this enzymatic activity.", "contents": "Ligatin from embryonic chick neural retina. Ligatin, a filamentous protein previously found in suckling rat ileum, has been purified from plasma membranes of embryonic chick neural retina. The isolated plasma membranes are covered in part by 4.5-nm filaments that can be released from the membranes by treatment with Ca++. Subsequent dialysis against EGTA followed by sieve chromatography results in purification of the 10,000-dalton ligatin monomer. When labeled either with radioisotopes or with fluorescamine, the monomer is shown to electrophorese as a single discrete band in polyacrylamide gels. However, during standard fixing and staining procedures it diffuses from the gels and thus is not visualized. Ligatin's amino acid composition is distinguished by its high content of polar residues, especially Glx and Asx, and by the presence of phosphorylated serine. Upon re-addition of Ca++, purified ligatin monomers polymerize to form filaments 3 nm in Diam, identical to those formed by purified ileal ligatin. However, in both retina and ileum, the filaments observed on plasma membranes are greater than 3 nm in Diam. In ileum, this enlargement results from ligatin's function as a baseplate for the attachment of another protein, a beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase, to the cell surface. In retina, a corresponding difference in diameter between filaments seen in vivo and those formed from repolymerized ligatin alone and the co-solubilization of other proteins with ligatin suggest that ligatin may also function there as a baseplate for other cell surface proteins. The proteins associated with ligatin in retina differ morphologically from beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase and do not possess this enzymatic activity.", "PMID": 457762} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12855", "title": "Uptake and release of [3H]gamma-aminobutyric acid by embryonic spinal cord neurons in dissociated cell culture.", "content": "We have investigated the uptake and release of [3H]gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) by embryonic chick spinal cord cells maintained in culture. Cells dissociated from 4- or 7-d-old embryos were studied between 1 and 3 wk after plating. At 3 degrees C, [3H]GABA was accumulated by a high affinity (Km approximately equal to 4 microM) and a low affinity (Km approximately equal to 100 microM) mechanism. The high affinity transport was markedly inhibited in low Na+ media, by ouabain, at 0 degrees C, and by 2,4-diaminobutyric acid. Autoradiography, after incubation in 0.1 microM [3H]GABA, showed that approximately 50% (range = 30-70%) of the multipolar cells were labeled. These cells were neurons rather than glia; action potentials and/or synaptic potentials were recorded in cells subsequently found to be labeled. Non-neuronal, fibroblast-like cells and co-cultured myotubes were not labeled under the same conditions. The fact that not all of the neurons were labeled is consistent with the suggestion, based on studies of intact adult tissue, that high affinity transport of [3H]GABA may be unique to neurons that use GABA as a neurotransmitter. Our finding that none of fifteen physiologically identified cholinergic neurons, i.e., cells that innervated nearby myotubes, were heavily labeled after incubation in 0.1 microM [3H]GABA is significant in this regard. The newly taken up [3H]GABA was not metabolized in the short run. It was stored in a form that could be released when the neurons were depolarized in a high K+ (100 mM) medium. As expected for a neurotransmitter, the K+-evoked release was reversibly inhibited by reducing the extracellular Ca++/Mg++ ratio.", "contents": "Uptake and release of [3H]gamma-aminobutyric acid by embryonic spinal cord neurons in dissociated cell culture. We have investigated the uptake and release of [3H]gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) by embryonic chick spinal cord cells maintained in culture. Cells dissociated from 4- or 7-d-old embryos were studied between 1 and 3 wk after plating. At 3 degrees C, [3H]GABA was accumulated by a high affinity (Km approximately equal to 4 microM) and a low affinity (Km approximately equal to 100 microM) mechanism. The high affinity transport was markedly inhibited in low Na+ media, by ouabain, at 0 degrees C, and by 2,4-diaminobutyric acid. Autoradiography, after incubation in 0.1 microM [3H]GABA, showed that approximately 50% (range = 30-70%) of the multipolar cells were labeled. These cells were neurons rather than glia; action potentials and/or synaptic potentials were recorded in cells subsequently found to be labeled. Non-neuronal, fibroblast-like cells and co-cultured myotubes were not labeled under the same conditions. The fact that not all of the neurons were labeled is consistent with the suggestion, based on studies of intact adult tissue, that high affinity transport of [3H]GABA may be unique to neurons that use GABA as a neurotransmitter. Our finding that none of fifteen physiologically identified cholinergic neurons, i.e., cells that innervated nearby myotubes, were heavily labeled after incubation in 0.1 microM [3H]GABA is significant in this regard. The newly taken up [3H]GABA was not metabolized in the short run. It was stored in a form that could be released when the neurons were depolarized in a high K+ (100 mM) medium. As expected for a neurotransmitter, the K+-evoked release was reversibly inhibited by reducing the extracellular Ca++/Mg++ ratio.", "PMID": 457763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12856", "title": "Tight junctions in the choroid plexus epithelium. A freeze-fracture study including complementary replicas.", "content": "The tight junctions of the choroid plexus epithelium of rats were studied by freeze-fracture. In glutaraldehyde-fixed material, the junctions exhibited rows of aligned particles and short bars on P-faces, the E-faces showing grooves bearing relatively many particles. A particulate nature of the junctional strands could be established by using unfixed material. The mean values of junctional strands from the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles of Lewis rats were 7.5 +/- 2.6, 7.4 +/- 2.2, and 7.5 +/- 2.4; and of Sprague-Dawley rats 7.7 +/- 3.4, 7.4 +/- 2.3, and 7.3 +/- 1.6. Examination of complementary replicas (of fixed tissue) showed that discomtinuities are present in the junctional strands: 42.2 +/- 4.6% of the length of measured P-face ridges were discontinuities, and the total amount of complementary particles in E-face grooves constituted 17.8 +/- 4.4% of the total length of the grooves, thus approximately 25% of the junctional strands can be considered to be discontinuous. The average width of the discontinuities, when corrected for complementary particles in E-face grooves, was 7.7 +/- 4.5 nm. In control experiments with a \"tighter\" tight junction (small intestine), complementary replicas revealed that the junctional fibrils are rather continuous and that the very few particles in E-face grooves mostly filled out discontinuities in the P-face ridges. Approximately 5% of the strands were found to be discontinuous. These data support the notion that the presence of pores in the junctional strands of the choroid plexus epithelium may explain the high transepithelial conductance in a \"leaky\" epithelium having a high number of junctional strands. However, loss of junctional material during fracturing is also considered as an alternative explanation of the present results.", "contents": "Tight junctions in the choroid plexus epithelium. A freeze-fracture study including complementary replicas. The tight junctions of the choroid plexus epithelium of rats were studied by freeze-fracture. In glutaraldehyde-fixed material, the junctions exhibited rows of aligned particles and short bars on P-faces, the E-faces showing grooves bearing relatively many particles. A particulate nature of the junctional strands could be established by using unfixed material. The mean values of junctional strands from the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles of Lewis rats were 7.5 +/- 2.6, 7.4 +/- 2.2, and 7.5 +/- 2.4; and of Sprague-Dawley rats 7.7 +/- 3.4, 7.4 +/- 2.3, and 7.3 +/- 1.6. Examination of complementary replicas (of fixed tissue) showed that discomtinuities are present in the junctional strands: 42.2 +/- 4.6% of the length of measured P-face ridges were discontinuities, and the total amount of complementary particles in E-face grooves constituted 17.8 +/- 4.4% of the total length of the grooves, thus approximately 25% of the junctional strands can be considered to be discontinuous. The average width of the discontinuities, when corrected for complementary particles in E-face grooves, was 7.7 +/- 4.5 nm. In control experiments with a \"tighter\" tight junction (small intestine), complementary replicas revealed that the junctional fibrils are rather continuous and that the very few particles in E-face grooves mostly filled out discontinuities in the P-face ridges. Approximately 5% of the strands were found to be discontinuous. These data support the notion that the presence of pores in the junctional strands of the choroid plexus epithelium may explain the high transepithelial conductance in a \"leaky\" epithelium having a high number of junctional strands. However, loss of junctional material during fracturing is also considered as an alternative explanation of the present results.", "PMID": 457764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12857", "title": "Parathyroid hormone biosynthesis. Correlation of conversion of biosynthetic precursors with intracellular protein migration as determined by electron microscope autoradiography.", "content": "The formation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the parathyroid gland occurs via two successive proteolytic cleavages from larger biosynthetic precursors. The initial product coded for by PTH mRNA is pre-proparathyroid hormone (PreProPTH), a polypeptide of 115 amino acids. Within 1 min of synthesis, the polypeptide, proparathyroid hormone (ProPTH), is formed as a result of the proteolytic removal of the NH2-terminal 25 amino acids from Pre-ProPTH. After a delay of 15-20 min, the NH2-terminal six-amino acid sequence of ProPTH is removed to give PTH of 84 amino acids. To investigate the subcellular sites in the parathyroid cell where the biosynthetic precursors undergo specific proteolytic cleavages, we examined, by electron microscopy autoradiography, the spatiotemporal migration of autoradiographic grains and, by electrophoresis, the kinetics of the disappearance of labeled Pre-ProPTH and the conversion of labeled ProPTH to PTH in bovine parathyroid gland slices incubated with [3H]leucine for 5 min (pulse incubation) followed by incubations with unlabeled leucine for periods up to 85 min (chase incubations). By 5 min, 85% of the autoradiographic grains were confined to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). Autoradiographic grains increased rapidly in number in the Golgi region after 15 min of incubation; from 15 to 30 min they migrated within secretory vesicles still in the Golgi region and then migrated to mature secretory granules outside the Golgi area. Electrophoretic analyses showed that Pre-ProPTH disappeared rapidly (by 5 min) and that conversion of ProPTH to PTH was first detectable at 15 min and was completed by 30 min. At later times of incubation (30-90 min), autoradiographic grains within the secretion glanules migrated to the periphery of the cell and to the plasma membrane, in correlation with the release of PTH first detected by 30 min. We conclude that proteolytic conversion of Pre-ProPTH to ProPTH takes place in the RER and that subsequent conversion of ProPTH to PTH occurs in the Golgi complex.", "contents": "Parathyroid hormone biosynthesis. Correlation of conversion of biosynthetic precursors with intracellular protein migration as determined by electron microscope autoradiography. The formation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the parathyroid gland occurs via two successive proteolytic cleavages from larger biosynthetic precursors. The initial product coded for by PTH mRNA is pre-proparathyroid hormone (PreProPTH), a polypeptide of 115 amino acids. Within 1 min of synthesis, the polypeptide, proparathyroid hormone (ProPTH), is formed as a result of the proteolytic removal of the NH2-terminal 25 amino acids from Pre-ProPTH. After a delay of 15-20 min, the NH2-terminal six-amino acid sequence of ProPTH is removed to give PTH of 84 amino acids. To investigate the subcellular sites in the parathyroid cell where the biosynthetic precursors undergo specific proteolytic cleavages, we examined, by electron microscopy autoradiography, the spatiotemporal migration of autoradiographic grains and, by electrophoresis, the kinetics of the disappearance of labeled Pre-ProPTH and the conversion of labeled ProPTH to PTH in bovine parathyroid gland slices incubated with [3H]leucine for 5 min (pulse incubation) followed by incubations with unlabeled leucine for periods up to 85 min (chase incubations). By 5 min, 85% of the autoradiographic grains were confined to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). Autoradiographic grains increased rapidly in number in the Golgi region after 15 min of incubation; from 15 to 30 min they migrated within secretory vesicles still in the Golgi region and then migrated to mature secretory granules outside the Golgi area. Electrophoretic analyses showed that Pre-ProPTH disappeared rapidly (by 5 min) and that conversion of ProPTH to PTH was first detectable at 15 min and was completed by 30 min. At later times of incubation (30-90 min), autoradiographic grains within the secretion glanules migrated to the periphery of the cell and to the plasma membrane, in correlation with the release of PTH first detected by 30 min. We conclude that proteolytic conversion of Pre-ProPTH to ProPTH takes place in the RER and that subsequent conversion of ProPTH to PTH occurs in the Golgi complex.", "PMID": 457765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12858", "title": "Transverse sarcomere splitting. A possible means of longitudinal growth in crab muscles.", "content": "Transversely split sarcomeres are seen in mouthpart muscles of the blue crab in the electron microscope. Sarcomeres split only at the H zone. Two new sarcomeres are formed by a Z disk which appears in the H zone of the splitting sarcomere. Splitting may involve breaking of the thick filaments in the H zone, elongation of these filaments, and formation of both new actin filaments and Z-disk materials, Sarcomere splitting would allow longitudinal growth of muscle cells without lengthening of sarcomeres and concomitant changes in contractile properties.", "contents": "Transverse sarcomere splitting. A possible means of longitudinal growth in crab muscles. Transversely split sarcomeres are seen in mouthpart muscles of the blue crab in the electron microscope. Sarcomeres split only at the H zone. Two new sarcomeres are formed by a Z disk which appears in the H zone of the splitting sarcomere. Splitting may involve breaking of the thick filaments in the H zone, elongation of these filaments, and formation of both new actin filaments and Z-disk materials, Sarcomere splitting would allow longitudinal growth of muscle cells without lengthening of sarcomeres and concomitant changes in contractile properties.", "PMID": 457766} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12859", "title": "Isolation of concanavalin A caps during various stages of formation and their association with actin and myosin.", "content": "Regions of plasma membrane of dictyostelium discoideum amoebae that contain concanavalin A (Con A)-receptor complexes are more resistant to disruption by Triton X-100. This resistance makes possible the isolation of Con A-associated membrane fragments in sufficient quantity and homogeneity to permit the direct biochemical and ultrastructural study of receptor-cytoskeletal interactions across the cell membrane. After specific binding of Con A to the cell surface, a large amount of the cell's actin and myosin copurifies with the plasma membrane fragments. Myosin is more loosely bound to the isolated membranes that actin and is efficiently removed by treating membranes with ATP and low ionic strength. If cells are not lysed immediately after lectin binding, all of the Con A that is bound to the cell surface is swept into a cap in a process requiring metabolic energy. When cells are lysed at different stages of cap formation, the amount of actin and myosin that copurifies with the isolated membranes remains the same. Thick and thin filaments that are attached to the protoplasmic surface of the isolated membranes underlie lectin-receptor complexes during all stages of cap formation. Once the cap is complete, the amount of actin and myosin that tightly bound to the plasma membrane is concentrated into the cap along with the Con A-receptor complexes. These results suggest that the ATP-dependent sliding of membrane-associated actin and myosin filaments is responsible for the accumulation of Con A-receptor complexes into a cap on the cell surface.", "contents": "Isolation of concanavalin A caps during various stages of formation and their association with actin and myosin. Regions of plasma membrane of dictyostelium discoideum amoebae that contain concanavalin A (Con A)-receptor complexes are more resistant to disruption by Triton X-100. This resistance makes possible the isolation of Con A-associated membrane fragments in sufficient quantity and homogeneity to permit the direct biochemical and ultrastructural study of receptor-cytoskeletal interactions across the cell membrane. After specific binding of Con A to the cell surface, a large amount of the cell's actin and myosin copurifies with the plasma membrane fragments. Myosin is more loosely bound to the isolated membranes that actin and is efficiently removed by treating membranes with ATP and low ionic strength. If cells are not lysed immediately after lectin binding, all of the Con A that is bound to the cell surface is swept into a cap in a process requiring metabolic energy. When cells are lysed at different stages of cap formation, the amount of actin and myosin that copurifies with the isolated membranes remains the same. Thick and thin filaments that are attached to the protoplasmic surface of the isolated membranes underlie lectin-receptor complexes during all stages of cap formation. Once the cap is complete, the amount of actin and myosin that tightly bound to the plasma membrane is concentrated into the cap along with the Con A-receptor complexes. These results suggest that the ATP-dependent sliding of membrane-associated actin and myosin filaments is responsible for the accumulation of Con A-receptor complexes into a cap on the cell surface.", "PMID": 457767} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12860", "title": "Distribution of newly formed ribosomal proteins in HeLa cell fractions.", "content": "The distribution of newly formed ribosomal proteins between cytoplasmic, nucleoplasmic, and nucleolar fractions of HeLa cells was determined. All but a few of the newly formed ribosomal proteins were concentrated 10- to 50-fold in the nucleolus and two- to fivefold in the nucleoplasm. Nevertheless, substantial amounts were found in the cytoplasm. Pretreatment of cells with actinomycin D to deplete the nucleolar pool of ribosomal precursor RNA had no effect on the concentration of newly formed ribosomal proteins in the nucleus, but did lead to an increased amount in the nucleoplasm at the expense of the nucleolus.", "contents": "Distribution of newly formed ribosomal proteins in HeLa cell fractions. The distribution of newly formed ribosomal proteins between cytoplasmic, nucleoplasmic, and nucleolar fractions of HeLa cells was determined. All but a few of the newly formed ribosomal proteins were concentrated 10- to 50-fold in the nucleolus and two- to fivefold in the nucleoplasm. Nevertheless, substantial amounts were found in the cytoplasm. Pretreatment of cells with actinomycin D to deplete the nucleolar pool of ribosomal precursor RNA had no effect on the concentration of newly formed ribosomal proteins in the nucleus, but did lead to an increased amount in the nucleoplasm at the expense of the nucleolus.", "PMID": 457768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12861", "title": "Visualization of pores (export sites) correlated with cellulose production in the envelope of the gram-negative bacterium Acetobacter xylinum.", "content": "The Gram-negative bacterium Acetobacter xylinum assembles a cellulse ribbon composed of a number of microfibrils in the longitudinal axis of its envelope. The zone of ribbon assembly was investigated by freeze-etch electron microscopy. Freeze-etching revealed, beneath the cellulose ribbons, a linear array of pores on the lipopolysaccharide membrane. These pores have a rim diameter of 120--150 A and a central hole or deepening of approximately 35 A. The axes of pore arrays closely coincide with linear arrays of 100 A particles on the E- and P-faces of the fractured lipopolysaccharide membranes. Pores and particles in the lipopolysaccharide membrane are probably congruent. The pores are hypothesized to be the export sites (penetration sites) for cellulose.", "contents": "Visualization of pores (export sites) correlated with cellulose production in the envelope of the gram-negative bacterium Acetobacter xylinum. The Gram-negative bacterium Acetobacter xylinum assembles a cellulse ribbon composed of a number of microfibrils in the longitudinal axis of its envelope. The zone of ribbon assembly was investigated by freeze-etch electron microscopy. Freeze-etching revealed, beneath the cellulose ribbons, a linear array of pores on the lipopolysaccharide membrane. These pores have a rim diameter of 120--150 A and a central hole or deepening of approximately 35 A. The axes of pore arrays closely coincide with linear arrays of 100 A particles on the E- and P-faces of the fractured lipopolysaccharide membranes. Pores and particles in the lipopolysaccharide membrane are probably congruent. The pores are hypothesized to be the export sites (penetration sites) for cellulose.", "PMID": 457769} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12862", "title": "Large species differences in the pattern of snPI RNA which can distinguish ape from human.", "content": "The snPI RNA species are a recently described set of molecules whose sizes range from 5S to 10S. They can be labeled in vitro in isolated nuclei and are apparently formed by an RNA polymerase I type of activity. However, in contrast to ribosomal precursor RNA, the usual polymerase I product, they are not found in the nucleolus but rather are located in the nucleoplasm. The snPI RNAs have been found in all mammalian cell types studied. The spectrum seen in gel electrophoresis is unique to each animal species studied but is essentially the same in different cell types within a species. The differences in snPI patterns are quite large between even closely related species and are clearly distinguishable in gorilla and human cells.", "contents": "Large species differences in the pattern of snPI RNA which can distinguish ape from human. The snPI RNA species are a recently described set of molecules whose sizes range from 5S to 10S. They can be labeled in vitro in isolated nuclei and are apparently formed by an RNA polymerase I type of activity. However, in contrast to ribosomal precursor RNA, the usual polymerase I product, they are not found in the nucleolus but rather are located in the nucleoplasm. The snPI RNAs have been found in all mammalian cell types studied. The spectrum seen in gel electrophoresis is unique to each animal species studied but is essentially the same in different cell types within a species. The differences in snPI patterns are quite large between even closely related species and are clearly distinguishable in gorilla and human cells.", "PMID": 457770} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12863", "title": "Fibronectin from chicken embryo fibroblasts contains covalently bound phosphate.", "content": "Fibronectin isolated from cultures of chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEF) contains phosphorus linked to serine and threonine by monoester bonds. Normal and Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-transformed cells were incubated with [32P]orthophosphate, and fibronectin was isolated from the cell surfaces and conditioned media. 32P was stably associated with fibronectin during immunoprecipitation, SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, phospholipid solvent extraction, and hot acid but not alkaline treatment. After a limited acid hydrolysis of fibronectin, both phosphoserine and phosphothreonine were found. The specific radioactivity of the 32P-labeled fibronectin from the conditioned medium of normal CEF was higher than that from the cultures of transformed CEF.", "contents": "Fibronectin from chicken embryo fibroblasts contains covalently bound phosphate. Fibronectin isolated from cultures of chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEF) contains phosphorus linked to serine and threonine by monoester bonds. Normal and Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-transformed cells were incubated with [32P]orthophosphate, and fibronectin was isolated from the cell surfaces and conditioned media. 32P was stably associated with fibronectin during immunoprecipitation, SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, phospholipid solvent extraction, and hot acid but not alkaline treatment. After a limited acid hydrolysis of fibronectin, both phosphoserine and phosphothreonine were found. The specific radioactivity of the 32P-labeled fibronectin from the conditioned medium of normal CEF was higher than that from the cultures of transformed CEF.", "PMID": 457771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12864", "title": "Cell cycle-dependent, in vitro assembly of microtubules onto pericentriolar material of HeLa cells.", "content": "A centriolar complex comprising a pair of centrioles and a cloud of pericentriolar materials is located at the point of covergence of the microtubules of the mitotic apparatus. The in vitro assembly of microtubules was observed onto these complexes in the 1,400 g supernatant fraction of colcemid-blocked, mitotic HeLa cells lysed into solutions containing tubulin and Triton X-100. Dark-field microscopy provided a convenient means by which this process could be visualized directly. When this 1,400 g supernate was incubated at 30 degrees C and centrifuged into a discontinuous sucrose gradient, a band containing centriolar complexes and assembled microtubles was obtained at 50-60% sucrose interface. Ultrastructual analysis indicated that the majority of the microtubules assembled predominantly from the pericentriolar material but also onto the centrioles. When cells were synchronized by a double thymide block, the assembly of microtubules onto centriolar complexes was observed only in lysates of mitotic cells; no assembly was seen in lysed material of interphase cells. Microtubule assembly occured onto centriolar complexes in solutions of either 100,000 g brain supernate, 2 X cycled tubulin, or purified tubulin dimers. This study demonstrates that the pericentriolar material becomes competent as a microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) at the time of mitosis. With use of the techniques described, a method for the isolation of centriolar complexes may be developed.", "contents": "Cell cycle-dependent, in vitro assembly of microtubules onto pericentriolar material of HeLa cells. A centriolar complex comprising a pair of centrioles and a cloud of pericentriolar materials is located at the point of covergence of the microtubules of the mitotic apparatus. The in vitro assembly of microtubules was observed onto these complexes in the 1,400 g supernatant fraction of colcemid-blocked, mitotic HeLa cells lysed into solutions containing tubulin and Triton X-100. Dark-field microscopy provided a convenient means by which this process could be visualized directly. When this 1,400 g supernate was incubated at 30 degrees C and centrifuged into a discontinuous sucrose gradient, a band containing centriolar complexes and assembled microtubles was obtained at 50-60% sucrose interface. Ultrastructual analysis indicated that the majority of the microtubules assembled predominantly from the pericentriolar material but also onto the centrioles. When cells were synchronized by a double thymide block, the assembly of microtubules onto centriolar complexes was observed only in lysates of mitotic cells; no assembly was seen in lysed material of interphase cells. Microtubule assembly occured onto centriolar complexes in solutions of either 100,000 g brain supernate, 2 X cycled tubulin, or purified tubulin dimers. This study demonstrates that the pericentriolar material becomes competent as a microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) at the time of mitosis. With use of the techniques described, a method for the isolation of centriolar complexes may be developed.", "PMID": 457772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12865", "title": "Biosynthesis of cytochrome P-450 on membrane-bound ribosomes and its subsequent incorporation into rough and smooth microsomes in rat hepatocytes.", "content": "Intracellular sites of synthesis of cytochrome P-450 and the subsequent incorporation of it into membrane structures of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in rat hepatocytes have been studied using an antibody monospecific for phenobarbital-inducible cytochrome P-450. The cytochrome is synthesized mainly on the \"tightly bound\" type of membrane-bound ribosomes whose release from the membrane requires treatment with puromycin in a high salt buffer (500 mM KCI, 5mM MgCl2, and 50 mM Tris-HCL [pH 7.5]). Subsequently the cytochrome is incorporated directly into the rough ER membranes with its major part exposed to the outer surface to the membrane and accessible to proteolytic enzymes added externally. The newly synthesized molecules, which appeared first in the rough membrane, are translocated to the smooth membrane, and are then distributed evenly between the two types of microsomeal membranes in approximately 1 h. Administration of cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein biosynthesis, did not significantly inhibit the transfer of the enzyme from the rough to the smooth ER. It is suggested, therefore, that the translocation of the newly synthesized cythochrome P-450 between the rough and smooth microsomes is mainly due to the lateral movement of the molecules in the plane of the membranes rather than to the attachment and detachment of the ribosomes on the microsomal membranes after the ribosomal cycle for protein synthesis.", "contents": "Biosynthesis of cytochrome P-450 on membrane-bound ribosomes and its subsequent incorporation into rough and smooth microsomes in rat hepatocytes. Intracellular sites of synthesis of cytochrome P-450 and the subsequent incorporation of it into membrane structures of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in rat hepatocytes have been studied using an antibody monospecific for phenobarbital-inducible cytochrome P-450. The cytochrome is synthesized mainly on the \"tightly bound\" type of membrane-bound ribosomes whose release from the membrane requires treatment with puromycin in a high salt buffer (500 mM KCI, 5mM MgCl2, and 50 mM Tris-HCL [pH 7.5]). Subsequently the cytochrome is incorporated directly into the rough ER membranes with its major part exposed to the outer surface to the membrane and accessible to proteolytic enzymes added externally. The newly synthesized molecules, which appeared first in the rough membrane, are translocated to the smooth membrane, and are then distributed evenly between the two types of microsomeal membranes in approximately 1 h. Administration of cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein biosynthesis, did not significantly inhibit the transfer of the enzyme from the rough to the smooth ER. It is suggested, therefore, that the translocation of the newly synthesized cythochrome P-450 between the rough and smooth microsomes is mainly due to the lateral movement of the molecules in the plane of the membranes rather than to the attachment and detachment of the ribosomes on the microsomal membranes after the ribosomal cycle for protein synthesis.", "PMID": 457773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12866", "title": "Endocytosis of cholera toxin in GERL-like structures of murine neuroblastoma cells pretreated with GM1 ganglioside. Cholera toxin internalization into Neuroblastoma GERL.", "content": "Cholera toxin (CT), covalently attached to horseradish peroxidase (HRP), is a specific cytochemical marker for GM1 ganglioside (GM1) and retains the ability of the native toxin to raise levels of cyclic AMP in avian erythrocytes. Using a cytochemical stain for HRP, we found that 9% of control cultured murine neuroblastoma cells bound cholera toxin-horseradish peroxidase conjugates (CT-HRP) on their surfaces after incubations for 1 h at 4 degrees C. Exogenous GM1, the natural receptor of CT, becomes associated in the culture medium with the plasma membranes of these cells so that 96% of cells are stained. Cells preincubated with GM1 at 4 degrees C were exposed to CT-HRP for 1 h at 4 degrees C. After washing, cells were incubated at 37 degrees C for 30 min-24 h. Endocytosis of CT-HRP occurred within 30 min and CT-HRP remained, throughout the 24-h period, in tubules, vesicles, and cisternae often found near the Golgi apparatus; this aggregate of peroxidase-positive elements probably corresponds to Golgi apparatus-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosomes (GERL) of neurons. In metaphase cells, CT-HRP was observed in aggregates of vesicles and tubules clustered near the centriole. Conjugates of HRP with subunit B, the GM1 binding component of CT, were internalized by cells pretreated with GM1 as was CT-HRP. The 9% of neuroblastoma cells binding CT-HRP in the absence of exogenous GM1 internalized the ligand in a manner indistinguishable from that of the treated cells. These findings indicate that, in neuroblastoma cells, a system of vesicles, tubules, and cisternae, analogous to GERL of neurons, is the primary recipient of adsorptive endocytosis of CT bound to endogenous or exogenously introduced GM1.", "contents": "Endocytosis of cholera toxin in GERL-like structures of murine neuroblastoma cells pretreated with GM1 ganglioside. Cholera toxin internalization into Neuroblastoma GERL. Cholera toxin (CT), covalently attached to horseradish peroxidase (HRP), is a specific cytochemical marker for GM1 ganglioside (GM1) and retains the ability of the native toxin to raise levels of cyclic AMP in avian erythrocytes. Using a cytochemical stain for HRP, we found that 9% of control cultured murine neuroblastoma cells bound cholera toxin-horseradish peroxidase conjugates (CT-HRP) on their surfaces after incubations for 1 h at 4 degrees C. Exogenous GM1, the natural receptor of CT, becomes associated in the culture medium with the plasma membranes of these cells so that 96% of cells are stained. Cells preincubated with GM1 at 4 degrees C were exposed to CT-HRP for 1 h at 4 degrees C. After washing, cells were incubated at 37 degrees C for 30 min-24 h. Endocytosis of CT-HRP occurred within 30 min and CT-HRP remained, throughout the 24-h period, in tubules, vesicles, and cisternae often found near the Golgi apparatus; this aggregate of peroxidase-positive elements probably corresponds to Golgi apparatus-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosomes (GERL) of neurons. In metaphase cells, CT-HRP was observed in aggregates of vesicles and tubules clustered near the centriole. Conjugates of HRP with subunit B, the GM1 binding component of CT, were internalized by cells pretreated with GM1 as was CT-HRP. The 9% of neuroblastoma cells binding CT-HRP in the absence of exogenous GM1 internalized the ligand in a manner indistinguishable from that of the treated cells. These findings indicate that, in neuroblastoma cells, a system of vesicles, tubules, and cisternae, analogous to GERL of neurons, is the primary recipient of adsorptive endocytosis of CT bound to endogenous or exogenously introduced GM1.", "PMID": 457774} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12867", "title": "Synthesis, insertion into the plasma membrane, and turnover of alpha-bungarotoxin receptors in chick sympathetic neurons.", "content": "alpha-Bungarotoxin was used to identify an integral membrane protein in the plasma membrane of chick sympathetic neurons. The synthesis, insertion into the plasma membrane, and turnover of the alpha-bungarotoxin receptor were studied using isotopically labeled amino acids (2H, 13C, 15N) to directly label receptor molecules. Neurons incubated in medium containing dense amino acids continued to insert unlabeled receptors from a pool of previously synthesized molecules for 2 h. Density-labeled receptors began to appear in the plasma membrane after this 2-h period. Synthesis of receptors, but not insertion into the surface, was blocked by cycloheximide (100 microgram/ml). Neither colchicine (0.05 microgram/ml) of actinomycin D (5 microgram/ml) has any effect on alpha-bungarotoxin receptor synthesis or insertion. Autoradiographic studied revealed that receptors occur on growth cones, axons, and cell bodies of single neurons and explanted ganglia. The rate of insertion of newly synthesized receptors into the plasma membrane of axons extending from explanted sympathetic ganglia was approximately the same as that into the cell body portion of the ganglion. Cytochalasin B (2 microgram/ml) rapidly distrupted growth cones but had no effect on receptor insertion. These experiments suggested that the growth cone is not the sole or even the primary site for insertion of this membrane protein. The kinetics of turnover of the alpha-bungarotoxin receptor were a first-order exponential with t 1/2 = 11 h. Neurons that had their surface receptors labeled with 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin produced [125I]iodotyrosine. This process was inhibited by low temperature (23 degrees C) and also by a metabolic inhibitor. This is interpreted as evidence that receptors turn over by a mechanism in which they are internalized and then proteolytically degraded.", "contents": "Synthesis, insertion into the plasma membrane, and turnover of alpha-bungarotoxin receptors in chick sympathetic neurons. alpha-Bungarotoxin was used to identify an integral membrane protein in the plasma membrane of chick sympathetic neurons. The synthesis, insertion into the plasma membrane, and turnover of the alpha-bungarotoxin receptor were studied using isotopically labeled amino acids (2H, 13C, 15N) to directly label receptor molecules. Neurons incubated in medium containing dense amino acids continued to insert unlabeled receptors from a pool of previously synthesized molecules for 2 h. Density-labeled receptors began to appear in the plasma membrane after this 2-h period. Synthesis of receptors, but not insertion into the surface, was blocked by cycloheximide (100 microgram/ml). Neither colchicine (0.05 microgram/ml) of actinomycin D (5 microgram/ml) has any effect on alpha-bungarotoxin receptor synthesis or insertion. Autoradiographic studied revealed that receptors occur on growth cones, axons, and cell bodies of single neurons and explanted ganglia. The rate of insertion of newly synthesized receptors into the plasma membrane of axons extending from explanted sympathetic ganglia was approximately the same as that into the cell body portion of the ganglion. Cytochalasin B (2 microgram/ml) rapidly distrupted growth cones but had no effect on receptor insertion. These experiments suggested that the growth cone is not the sole or even the primary site for insertion of this membrane protein. The kinetics of turnover of the alpha-bungarotoxin receptor were a first-order exponential with t 1/2 = 11 h. Neurons that had their surface receptors labeled with 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin produced [125I]iodotyrosine. This process was inhibited by low temperature (23 degrees C) and also by a metabolic inhibitor. This is interpreted as evidence that receptors turn over by a mechanism in which they are internalized and then proteolytically degraded.", "PMID": 457775} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12868", "title": "Axonal transport of actin in rabbit retinal ganglion cells.", "content": "We labeled proteins in the cell bodies of rabbit retinal ganglion cells with [35S]methionine and subsequently observed the appearance of radioactive actin in tissues containing the axons and synaptic terminals of these neurons, i.e., the optic nerve (ON), optic tract (OT), lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and the superior colliculus (SC). The temporal sequence of appearance of labeled actin (which was identified by its specific binding to DNase I, its electrophoretic mobility, and its peptide map) in these tissues indicated that actin is an axonally transported protein with a maximum transport velocity of 3.4--4.3 mm/d. The kinetics of labeling actin were similar to the kinetics of labeling two proteins (M1 and M2) which resemble myosin; these myosin-like proteins were previously found to be included in the groups of proteins (groups III and IV) transported with the third and fourth most rapid maximum velocities. The similarity in transport between actin and myosin-like proteins supports the idea that a number of proteins in the third and fourth transport groups may be functionally related by virtue of their involvement in a force-generating mechanism and suggests the possibility that these proteins may be axonally transported as a preformed force-generating unit.", "contents": "Axonal transport of actin in rabbit retinal ganglion cells. We labeled proteins in the cell bodies of rabbit retinal ganglion cells with [35S]methionine and subsequently observed the appearance of radioactive actin in tissues containing the axons and synaptic terminals of these neurons, i.e., the optic nerve (ON), optic tract (OT), lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and the superior colliculus (SC). The temporal sequence of appearance of labeled actin (which was identified by its specific binding to DNase I, its electrophoretic mobility, and its peptide map) in these tissues indicated that actin is an axonally transported protein with a maximum transport velocity of 3.4--4.3 mm/d. The kinetics of labeling actin were similar to the kinetics of labeling two proteins (M1 and M2) which resemble myosin; these myosin-like proteins were previously found to be included in the groups of proteins (groups III and IV) transported with the third and fourth most rapid maximum velocities. The similarity in transport between actin and myosin-like proteins supports the idea that a number of proteins in the third and fourth transport groups may be functionally related by virtue of their involvement in a force-generating mechanism and suggests the possibility that these proteins may be axonally transported as a preformed force-generating unit.", "PMID": 457776} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12869", "title": "Estrogen-induced membrane alterations and growth associated with proteinase activity in endometrial cells.", "content": "Endometrial cells isolated from uteri of ovariectomized rats were treated in vitro with 1 X 10(-9) M estradiol-17 beta (E2beta) to analyze early changes in membrane properties during hormone-induced growth. After 30-min exposure to E2beta at 22 degrees C, cells exhibited an enhanced capacity to bind erythrocytes (hemadsorption) in the presence of concanavalin A (Con A) to 237% of the level in paired controls. Fluorescence microscopy revealted that approximately 25% of cells exposed to E2beta, but not estradiol-17 alpha (E2alpha), showed a redistribution into polar clusters of Con A-binding sites that were dispersed in random patches at the external surfaces of control cells. These hormore-induced membrane alterations were abolished by prior treatment of cells with inhibitors of thiol proteinase activity of the cathepsin B1 (CB1) type, such as leupeptin and iodoacetate. Leupeptin at 4.5 X 10(-7) M also reduced the affinity of [3H]E2beta binding to intact cells but did not influence specific binding of the hormone to macromolecular components of cytosol. A pronounced increase in the availability of endogenous CB1, But not of alkaline phosphatase, succinate, or lactate dehydrogenase, in the extracellular media was elicited within 30 min after E2beta treatment. In cells cultured in chemically defined medium for up to 48 h, E2beta, but not E2alpha, enhanced cell proliferation and stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation into macromolecular form. These E2beta-induced effects were abolished by prior treatment of cells with liposome-entrapped leupeptin at a final concentration of 7 X 10(-8) M. The net rate of intercellular adhesion among endometrial cells was also enhanced by E2beta. This hormonal response was diminished by prior exposure to leupeptin. Fractionation of cells by selection for adhesiveness due to E2beta exposure for 30 min yielded a subpopulation of rapidly dividing cells which surpassed their less adhesive counterparts in cathepsin secretion and in Con A-mediated hemadsorption. These results indicate that leupeptin-sensitive proteinase activity may contribute to membrane and growth modifications elicited by E2beta treatment in endometrial cells.", "contents": "Estrogen-induced membrane alterations and growth associated with proteinase activity in endometrial cells. Endometrial cells isolated from uteri of ovariectomized rats were treated in vitro with 1 X 10(-9) M estradiol-17 beta (E2beta) to analyze early changes in membrane properties during hormone-induced growth. After 30-min exposure to E2beta at 22 degrees C, cells exhibited an enhanced capacity to bind erythrocytes (hemadsorption) in the presence of concanavalin A (Con A) to 237% of the level in paired controls. Fluorescence microscopy revealted that approximately 25% of cells exposed to E2beta, but not estradiol-17 alpha (E2alpha), showed a redistribution into polar clusters of Con A-binding sites that were dispersed in random patches at the external surfaces of control cells. These hormore-induced membrane alterations were abolished by prior treatment of cells with inhibitors of thiol proteinase activity of the cathepsin B1 (CB1) type, such as leupeptin and iodoacetate. Leupeptin at 4.5 X 10(-7) M also reduced the affinity of [3H]E2beta binding to intact cells but did not influence specific binding of the hormone to macromolecular components of cytosol. A pronounced increase in the availability of endogenous CB1, But not of alkaline phosphatase, succinate, or lactate dehydrogenase, in the extracellular media was elicited within 30 min after E2beta treatment. In cells cultured in chemically defined medium for up to 48 h, E2beta, but not E2alpha, enhanced cell proliferation and stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation into macromolecular form. These E2beta-induced effects were abolished by prior treatment of cells with liposome-entrapped leupeptin at a final concentration of 7 X 10(-8) M. The net rate of intercellular adhesion among endometrial cells was also enhanced by E2beta. This hormonal response was diminished by prior exposure to leupeptin. Fractionation of cells by selection for adhesiveness due to E2beta exposure for 30 min yielded a subpopulation of rapidly dividing cells which surpassed their less adhesive counterparts in cathepsin secretion and in Con A-mediated hemadsorption. These results indicate that leupeptin-sensitive proteinase activity may contribute to membrane and growth modifications elicited by E2beta treatment in endometrial cells.", "PMID": 457777} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12870", "title": "Interaction of microtubule proteins with phospholipid vesicles.", "content": "We have examined the interaction of unilamellar dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine liposomes with the high-speed supernate of brain homogenate and with tubulin purified through one or two cycles of microtubule assembly-disassembly. Tubulin and certian high molecular weight proteins are selectively adsorbed from these mixtures onto liposomes. The composition of adsorbed proteins is similar to that obtained during corresponding cycles of microtubule assembly, suggesting the equivalency of these processes. Adsorption induces stacking and/or fusion of liposomes into multilamellar structures indicating strong protein-lipid interaction. In addition, liposome-adsorbed tubulin forms extensive intermolecular disulfide bridges that are inert to reducing agents in the aqueous medium. The observations form a basis for further study of the distribution, function, and properties of membrane-bound tubulin.", "contents": "Interaction of microtubule proteins with phospholipid vesicles. We have examined the interaction of unilamellar dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine liposomes with the high-speed supernate of brain homogenate and with tubulin purified through one or two cycles of microtubule assembly-disassembly. Tubulin and certian high molecular weight proteins are selectively adsorbed from these mixtures onto liposomes. The composition of adsorbed proteins is similar to that obtained during corresponding cycles of microtubule assembly, suggesting the equivalency of these processes. Adsorption induces stacking and/or fusion of liposomes into multilamellar structures indicating strong protein-lipid interaction. In addition, liposome-adsorbed tubulin forms extensive intermolecular disulfide bridges that are inert to reducing agents in the aqueous medium. The observations form a basis for further study of the distribution, function, and properties of membrane-bound tubulin.", "PMID": 457778} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12871", "title": "Distribution of fluorescently labeled actin in living sea urchin eggs during early development.", "content": "Rabbit skeletal muscle actin was labeled with 5-iodoacetamidofluorescein (5-IAF) and purified by gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, and polymerization-depolymerization. The resultant fluorescent conjugates retained full biochemical activities. The labeled actin was incorporated into unfertilized eggs of Lytechinus pictus by direct microinjection and the distribution of fluorescence was investigated after fertilization through the first division cycle. The results were interpreted by comparing the images with those of control eggs injected with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled ovalbumin. After fertilization of eggs containing IAF actin, the membrane-cortical regions showed dramatic increases in fluorescence intensity which were not observed in FITC ovalbumin controls. During the first division, spindle regions of both IAF-actin-injected eggs and control eggs became distinctly fluorescent. However, no distinctly fluorescent contractile ring was detected in the cleavage furrow. After cytokinesis, the surface between blastomeres containing IAF actin exhibited an increase in fluorescence intensity. These observations have been compared with those of previous studies using different methods, and the possible implications have been discussed in relation to cellular functions.", "contents": "Distribution of fluorescently labeled actin in living sea urchin eggs during early development. Rabbit skeletal muscle actin was labeled with 5-iodoacetamidofluorescein (5-IAF) and purified by gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, and polymerization-depolymerization. The resultant fluorescent conjugates retained full biochemical activities. The labeled actin was incorporated into unfertilized eggs of Lytechinus pictus by direct microinjection and the distribution of fluorescence was investigated after fertilization through the first division cycle. The results were interpreted by comparing the images with those of control eggs injected with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled ovalbumin. After fertilization of eggs containing IAF actin, the membrane-cortical regions showed dramatic increases in fluorescence intensity which were not observed in FITC ovalbumin controls. During the first division, spindle regions of both IAF-actin-injected eggs and control eggs became distinctly fluorescent. However, no distinctly fluorescent contractile ring was detected in the cleavage furrow. After cytokinesis, the surface between blastomeres containing IAF actin exhibited an increase in fluorescence intensity. These observations have been compared with those of previous studies using different methods, and the possible implications have been discussed in relation to cellular functions.", "PMID": 457779} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12872", "title": "Induction of spreading during fibroblast movement.", "content": "This paper describes the phenomenon of retraction-induced spreading of embryonic chick heart fibroblasts moving in culture. Measurable criteria of cell spreading (increase in area of the spreading lamella, and total spread area of the cell) are found to change predictably with retraction of a portion of the cell margin. Ruffling activity was found to increase. The leading lamella of a spread fibroblast ordinarily advances slowly, with an average area increase of approximately 21 mu2m/min. A 10- to 30-fold increase in spreading occurs within 8 s after onset of retraction at the trailing edge and then decreases slightly so that by 1 min the increase in spreading is five to tenfold. During this period, there is a linear relationship between area increase at the leading edge and area decrease at the trailing edge. During the next 10--15 min, spreading gradually decreases to normal. Although the relationship between area spreading and area retracting of fibroblasts at different phases of movement is not significantly linear, it is highly correlated (Table II). These results suggest that the rate of fibroblast spreading may be inversely related to the degree of spreading of the cell as a whole.", "contents": "Induction of spreading during fibroblast movement. This paper describes the phenomenon of retraction-induced spreading of embryonic chick heart fibroblasts moving in culture. Measurable criteria of cell spreading (increase in area of the spreading lamella, and total spread area of the cell) are found to change predictably with retraction of a portion of the cell margin. Ruffling activity was found to increase. The leading lamella of a spread fibroblast ordinarily advances slowly, with an average area increase of approximately 21 mu2m/min. A 10- to 30-fold increase in spreading occurs within 8 s after onset of retraction at the trailing edge and then decreases slightly so that by 1 min the increase in spreading is five to tenfold. During this period, there is a linear relationship between area increase at the leading edge and area decrease at the trailing edge. During the next 10--15 min, spreading gradually decreases to normal. Although the relationship between area spreading and area retracting of fibroblasts at different phases of movement is not significantly linear, it is highly correlated (Table II). These results suggest that the rate of fibroblast spreading may be inversely related to the degree of spreading of the cell as a whole.", "PMID": 457780} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12873", "title": "Temporal organization of replication in DNA fibers of mammalian cells.", "content": "The extent of coordinate control over the multiple initiation events in DNA replication has been investigated in three mammalian cell lines by DNA fiber autoradiography. Quantitative estimates have been obtained of the degree of synchrony among initiations occurring on stretches of DNA. Synchrony decreases markedly with increasing distance between initiation sites in MDBK (bovine) and L929 (mouse) cells, but only slightly in muntjac cells. Possible control mechanisms for the initiation process are discussed.", "contents": "Temporal organization of replication in DNA fibers of mammalian cells. The extent of coordinate control over the multiple initiation events in DNA replication has been investigated in three mammalian cell lines by DNA fiber autoradiography. Quantitative estimates have been obtained of the degree of synchrony among initiations occurring on stretches of DNA. Synchrony decreases markedly with increasing distance between initiation sites in MDBK (bovine) and L929 (mouse) cells, but only slightly in muntjac cells. Possible control mechanisms for the initiation process are discussed.", "PMID": 457781} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12874", "title": "Effect of phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and rabbit alveolar macrophages on 2-deoxyglucose transport.", "content": "2-Deoxyglucose transport was characterized in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and rabbit alveolar macrophages (AM). The Km was 1 mM for human PMN and 1.6 mM for rabbit AM, and the Vmax was 0.66 x 10(-3) micromoles/45 sec/10(6) PMN and 5.09 x 10(-4) micromoles/45 sec/10(6) AM. The rate of 2-deoxyglucose transport was the same before and after phagocytosis in PMN from normal individuals and three patients with chronic granulomatous disease, as well as rabbit AM. Studies of the kinetics of 2-deoxyglucose transport and intracellular fate of 2-deoxyglucose in human PMN indicate that the nature of the membrane transport system is not altered by phagocytosis. The results support the concept that the plasma membrane is mosaic in character with geographically separate transport and phagocytic sites.", "contents": "Effect of phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and rabbit alveolar macrophages on 2-deoxyglucose transport. 2-Deoxyglucose transport was characterized in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and rabbit alveolar macrophages (AM). The Km was 1 mM for human PMN and 1.6 mM for rabbit AM, and the Vmax was 0.66 x 10(-3) micromoles/45 sec/10(6) PMN and 5.09 x 10(-4) micromoles/45 sec/10(6) AM. The rate of 2-deoxyglucose transport was the same before and after phagocytosis in PMN from normal individuals and three patients with chronic granulomatous disease, as well as rabbit AM. Studies of the kinetics of 2-deoxyglucose transport and intracellular fate of 2-deoxyglucose in human PMN indicate that the nature of the membrane transport system is not altered by phagocytosis. The results support the concept that the plasma membrane is mosaic in character with geographically separate transport and phagocytic sites.", "PMID": 457782} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12875", "title": "Tunicamycin-mediated depletion of insulin receptors in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.", "content": "Tunicamycin, an antibiotic that inhibits protein glycosylation, elicited a rapid depletion of insulin binding activity at the surface of 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Disappearance of insulin receptors occurred more rapidly in the presence of tunicamycin than when protein synthesis was inhibited by cycloheximide and was accompanied by a diminution in sensitivity of the adipocytes to the acute effects of insulin and anti-insulin receptor antibody on hexose uptake and metabolism.", "contents": "Tunicamycin-mediated depletion of insulin receptors in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Tunicamycin, an antibiotic that inhibits protein glycosylation, elicited a rapid depletion of insulin binding activity at the surface of 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Disappearance of insulin receptors occurred more rapidly in the presence of tunicamycin than when protein synthesis was inhibited by cycloheximide and was accompanied by a diminution in sensitivity of the adipocytes to the acute effects of insulin and anti-insulin receptor antibody on hexose uptake and metabolism.", "PMID": 457783} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12876", "title": "Selective inhibition of preribosomal RNA synthesis by puromycin aminonucleoside in transformed human fibroblasts: studies of the nature of the inhibition in isolated nuclei and nucleoli.", "content": "Puromycin aminonucleoside selectively inhibits the synthesis of ribosomal RNA in human lung fibroblasts transformed by the oncogenic virus SV40. The mechanism of this inhibition was studied utilizing nuclei and nucleoli isolated from cells treated for 18 hours with 100 micrograms/ml of this compound. It was established that for a limited period of time nuclei and nucleoli isolated from the fibroblasts continue synthesis of RNA of size classes seen in intact cells, and that the inhibitory effect of aminonucleoside persists after isolation of these organelles. The inhibition was shown to be directed primarily to the activity of RNA polymerase I. Studies of the mechanism of this inhibition have indicated that the decreased rate of the polymerase reaction is not due to the impairment of the template function of nucleolar chromatin, and that unbound, as well as chromatin-bound, RNA polymerase I is present in both control and treated nucleoli. Analysis of the size distribution of the products of cell-free RNA synthesis showed that aminonucleoside pretreatment results in marked reduction in the synthesis of preribosomal 45S RNA, abnormal accumulation of 32S RNA, and reduced formation of mature ribosomal RNA species in the in vitro system. The data suggest that the inhibitory effect of aminonucleoside on ribosomal synthesis is due in part to a lower rate of transcription by RNA polymerase I of preribosomal RNA, and in part to its impaired maturation.", "contents": "Selective inhibition of preribosomal RNA synthesis by puromycin aminonucleoside in transformed human fibroblasts: studies of the nature of the inhibition in isolated nuclei and nucleoli. Puromycin aminonucleoside selectively inhibits the synthesis of ribosomal RNA in human lung fibroblasts transformed by the oncogenic virus SV40. The mechanism of this inhibition was studied utilizing nuclei and nucleoli isolated from cells treated for 18 hours with 100 micrograms/ml of this compound. It was established that for a limited period of time nuclei and nucleoli isolated from the fibroblasts continue synthesis of RNA of size classes seen in intact cells, and that the inhibitory effect of aminonucleoside persists after isolation of these organelles. The inhibition was shown to be directed primarily to the activity of RNA polymerase I. Studies of the mechanism of this inhibition have indicated that the decreased rate of the polymerase reaction is not due to the impairment of the template function of nucleolar chromatin, and that unbound, as well as chromatin-bound, RNA polymerase I is present in both control and treated nucleoli. Analysis of the size distribution of the products of cell-free RNA synthesis showed that aminonucleoside pretreatment results in marked reduction in the synthesis of preribosomal 45S RNA, abnormal accumulation of 32S RNA, and reduced formation of mature ribosomal RNA species in the in vitro system. The data suggest that the inhibitory effect of aminonucleoside on ribosomal synthesis is due in part to a lower rate of transcription by RNA polymerase I of preribosomal RNA, and in part to its impaired maturation.", "PMID": 457784} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12877", "title": "The kinetics of chick cell population aging in vitro.", "content": "We have examined the kinetics of chick cell population aging in vitro using the percentage of labeled nuclei, the number of colonies formed from a low density inoculum and the number of cells/colony to monitor culture age. The results from these studies showed a gradual age-associated decline in each of the parameters which was first detected early in the culture lifespan and well in advance of changes in total cell number at confluency. Our results also indicated that each of the above parameters, in addition to the calendar time cells had been in culture, could be used to estimate the percentage of lifespan completed by the culture. A comparison of the methods used to estimate the remaining culture lifespan indicated that the percentage of labeled nuclei was the most accurate in describing cell age.", "contents": "The kinetics of chick cell population aging in vitro. We have examined the kinetics of chick cell population aging in vitro using the percentage of labeled nuclei, the number of colonies formed from a low density inoculum and the number of cells/colony to monitor culture age. The results from these studies showed a gradual age-associated decline in each of the parameters which was first detected early in the culture lifespan and well in advance of changes in total cell number at confluency. Our results also indicated that each of the above parameters, in addition to the calendar time cells had been in culture, could be used to estimate the percentage of lifespan completed by the culture. A comparison of the methods used to estimate the remaining culture lifespan indicated that the percentage of labeled nuclei was the most accurate in describing cell age.", "PMID": 457785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12878", "title": "Two distinct mechanisms for ornithine decarboxylase regulation by polyamines in rat hepatoma cells.", "content": "Exogenous diamines and polyamines added to rat hepatoma (HTC) cells in culture rapidly decrease ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity. Previous evidence has suggested that these amines set either at the level of blocking new enzyme synthesis or by the induction of a non-competitive protein inhibitor, termed antizyme, which complexes with ODC to form an inactive complex. Wth the use of HMOA cells, a recently cloned rat hepatoma cell line that has a greatly stabilized ODC, it has been possible to demonstrate that 10(-5) M of exogenous putrescine blocks the increase in ODC activity, but unlike in the parent HTC cell line, without induction of the antizyme or formation of any inactive ODC-antizyme complex. However, complete blockade of ODC at 10(-2) M putrescine is effected by induction of antizyme and formation of the ODC-antizyme complex, as now evidenced by the isolation of the active enzyme and antizyme components after Sephadex column chromatography in the presence of 250 mM NaCl. These findings indicate clearly that two polyamine-regulatory mechanisms for ODC exist and are separable in this cell line.", "contents": "Two distinct mechanisms for ornithine decarboxylase regulation by polyamines in rat hepatoma cells. Exogenous diamines and polyamines added to rat hepatoma (HTC) cells in culture rapidly decrease ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity. Previous evidence has suggested that these amines set either at the level of blocking new enzyme synthesis or by the induction of a non-competitive protein inhibitor, termed antizyme, which complexes with ODC to form an inactive complex. Wth the use of HMOA cells, a recently cloned rat hepatoma cell line that has a greatly stabilized ODC, it has been possible to demonstrate that 10(-5) M of exogenous putrescine blocks the increase in ODC activity, but unlike in the parent HTC cell line, without induction of the antizyme or formation of any inactive ODC-antizyme complex. However, complete blockade of ODC at 10(-2) M putrescine is effected by induction of antizyme and formation of the ODC-antizyme complex, as now evidenced by the isolation of the active enzyme and antizyme components after Sephadex column chromatography in the presence of 250 mM NaCl. These findings indicate clearly that two polyamine-regulatory mechanisms for ODC exist and are separable in this cell line.", "PMID": 457786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12879", "title": "Pyrimidine nucleoside, pseudouridine, and modified nucleoside excretion by growing and resting fibroblasts.", "content": "We are examining the relationship of RNA metabolism and de novo pyrimidine synthesis as parameters of malignant transformation. These initial experiments on normal hamster embryo fibroblasts have shown that excreted nucleosides are markers for intracellular RNA metabolism. We employed affinity chromatography to concentrate the nucleosides in the medium and sensitive column chromatographic procedures to quantitatively measure them. The excretion of pyrimidine nucleoside from hamster embryo fibroblasts in sulture was found to be dependent on the growth state of the cells, with the greatest accumulation occurring cell quiescence. The major nucleoside excretion products, uridine and cytidine, were both normal end products of RNA metabolism and the major nucleoside excretion products from cultured cells. The modified nucleosides N-1-methylguanosine, N-2-methylguanosine, N-2-dimethylguanosine, N-4-acetylcytidine, N-1-methylinosine, pseudouridine, N-1-methyladenosine, N-3-methylcytidine, and 5-methyleycytidine were found, as were several unidentified nucleosides.", "contents": "Pyrimidine nucleoside, pseudouridine, and modified nucleoside excretion by growing and resting fibroblasts. We are examining the relationship of RNA metabolism and de novo pyrimidine synthesis as parameters of malignant transformation. These initial experiments on normal hamster embryo fibroblasts have shown that excreted nucleosides are markers for intracellular RNA metabolism. We employed affinity chromatography to concentrate the nucleosides in the medium and sensitive column chromatographic procedures to quantitatively measure them. The excretion of pyrimidine nucleoside from hamster embryo fibroblasts in sulture was found to be dependent on the growth state of the cells, with the greatest accumulation occurring cell quiescence. The major nucleoside excretion products, uridine and cytidine, were both normal end products of RNA metabolism and the major nucleoside excretion products from cultured cells. The modified nucleosides N-1-methylguanosine, N-2-methylguanosine, N-2-dimethylguanosine, N-4-acetylcytidine, N-1-methylinosine, pseudouridine, N-1-methyladenosine, N-3-methylcytidine, and 5-methyleycytidine were found, as were several unidentified nucleosides.", "PMID": 457787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12880", "title": "Selection and characterization of a varient of murine L5178Y lymphoma resistant to local anesthetics.", "content": "A varient of murine L5178Y lymphoma resistant to procaine hydrochloride (PH) was selected by exposing the cells to gradual increments of PH in the growth medium until the cell grew exponentially in the presence of 1.5 mM PH. Using cinephotomicrography, it was observed that the majority of cells that initially succumbed to PH failed to undergo successful mitosis. With respect ot chromosomal, cell size distribution and flow microfluorometric analyses, the PH-resistant cells are very similar to a spontaneous tetraploid cell line (R1T) previously cloned. The isolated cells, designated R1/P, were also found to be cross-resistant to analogues of PH, namely, lidocaine, tetracaine and dibucaine. The naturally-occurring tetraploid cell line (R1T) was also found to be more resistant to local anesthetics, although not to the same extent as R1/P cells. Since the enzyme that hydrolyzes procaine appears to be absent in all these lymphoid cell lines, the difference in resistance does not appear to depend on differences in the ability of these cells to remove the agent. It is suggested that an alteration in the structure and/or function of the plasma membrane in R1/P cells have rendered them either less sensitive to the membrane-perturbing effects of the local anesthetics or less permeable to local anesthetics molecules. The ability of local anesthetics to affect membranes and cytoskeleton structures may play a role in the genesis and/or selection of these cell variants.", "contents": "Selection and characterization of a varient of murine L5178Y lymphoma resistant to local anesthetics. A varient of murine L5178Y lymphoma resistant to procaine hydrochloride (PH) was selected by exposing the cells to gradual increments of PH in the growth medium until the cell grew exponentially in the presence of 1.5 mM PH. Using cinephotomicrography, it was observed that the majority of cells that initially succumbed to PH failed to undergo successful mitosis. With respect ot chromosomal, cell size distribution and flow microfluorometric analyses, the PH-resistant cells are very similar to a spontaneous tetraploid cell line (R1T) previously cloned. The isolated cells, designated R1/P, were also found to be cross-resistant to analogues of PH, namely, lidocaine, tetracaine and dibucaine. The naturally-occurring tetraploid cell line (R1T) was also found to be more resistant to local anesthetics, although not to the same extent as R1/P cells. Since the enzyme that hydrolyzes procaine appears to be absent in all these lymphoid cell lines, the difference in resistance does not appear to depend on differences in the ability of these cells to remove the agent. It is suggested that an alteration in the structure and/or function of the plasma membrane in R1/P cells have rendered them either less sensitive to the membrane-perturbing effects of the local anesthetics or less permeable to local anesthetics molecules. The ability of local anesthetics to affect membranes and cytoskeleton structures may play a role in the genesis and/or selection of these cell variants.", "PMID": 457788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12881", "title": "Studies on a fractionated murine fibrosarcoma: proliferative potential of the separated cells.", "content": "A transplantable methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma of female BALB/c mice (the MC-2 fibrosarcoma) was dissociated by combined mechanical and enzymatic means, then fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation in linear albumin gradients. In some experiments recovered cells were both cultured in soft nutrietn agar and inoculated subcutaneously into syngeneic recipients. In these experiments a highly significant correlation was observed between subsequtnt colony number and rapid growth phase tumor size suggesting identity of clonigenic and tumorigenic cells. It was consistently found that clonigenic cells were markedly depleted from the low density extremes of the cell density distribution profiles suggesting that the low density neoplastic cells had irreversibly left the growth fraction. With increasing tumor age, sequential studies showed that both total and clonigenic cell density distribution profiles were variable, showing no obvious trend, suggesting that in the age (13-35 days) and size (2-8 g) range studied growth fraction changes had little selective effect on cells of any specific density. These results imply that a marked selective depletion of low density clonigenic cells (or selective accumulation of low density non-proliferative cells) must mainly occur during an earlier phase of tumor growth. Studies on several other murine solid tumors also showed maximal depletion of clonigenic cells from the least dense fractions, suggesting that this situation may be common.", "contents": "Studies on a fractionated murine fibrosarcoma: proliferative potential of the separated cells. A transplantable methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma of female BALB/c mice (the MC-2 fibrosarcoma) was dissociated by combined mechanical and enzymatic means, then fractionated by isopycnic centrifugation in linear albumin gradients. In some experiments recovered cells were both cultured in soft nutrietn agar and inoculated subcutaneously into syngeneic recipients. In these experiments a highly significant correlation was observed between subsequtnt colony number and rapid growth phase tumor size suggesting identity of clonigenic and tumorigenic cells. It was consistently found that clonigenic cells were markedly depleted from the low density extremes of the cell density distribution profiles suggesting that the low density neoplastic cells had irreversibly left the growth fraction. With increasing tumor age, sequential studies showed that both total and clonigenic cell density distribution profiles were variable, showing no obvious trend, suggesting that in the age (13-35 days) and size (2-8 g) range studied growth fraction changes had little selective effect on cells of any specific density. These results imply that a marked selective depletion of low density clonigenic cells (or selective accumulation of low density non-proliferative cells) must mainly occur during an earlier phase of tumor growth. Studies on several other murine solid tumors also showed maximal depletion of clonigenic cells from the least dense fractions, suggesting that this situation may be common.", "PMID": 457789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12882", "title": "Expression of malignancy in hybrids between normal and malignant cells.", "content": "Somatic cell hybrids between either normal human fibroblasts, phenotypically normal mouse fibroblasts or mouse peritoneal macrophages and HT1080 human diploid fibrosarcoma cells were studied for their ability to form tumors in nude mice. The results of this study indicate that tumorigenic behavior is expressed as a dominant trait in both human-human and mouse-human hybrid cells.", "contents": "Expression of malignancy in hybrids between normal and malignant cells. Somatic cell hybrids between either normal human fibroblasts, phenotypically normal mouse fibroblasts or mouse peritoneal macrophages and HT1080 human diploid fibrosarcoma cells were studied for their ability to form tumors in nude mice. The results of this study indicate that tumorigenic behavior is expressed as a dominant trait in both human-human and mouse-human hybrid cells.", "PMID": 457790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12883", "title": "Inosine di- and triphosphate synthesis in erythrocytes and cell extracts.", "content": "The ability to synthesize inosinetriphosphate was demonstrated in blood cells as well as in a variety of tissue extracts in spite of the presence of ITP pyrophohydrolase. At the expense of having sub-optimal conditions, an assay system was selected that completely repressed the hydrolyzing enzyme, thus permitting the accumulation of ITP. In an attempt to define the biosynthetic pathway of ITP, and since guanylate kinase has been implicated in the formation of ITP, the rate of synthesis of ITP and GTP in cell extracts was compared. The comparison of the specific activities of the [14C]-labeled hypoxanthine and guanine moieties of the inosine and guanosine phosphates formed during incubation with [8-14C]-inosine and [8-14C]-guanosine respectively, revealed striking differences in the relative rates of isotope incorporation. Tentative mechanisms are proposed to explain these differences. The data obtained thus far does not discard the possibility that ITP may be formed by stepwise phosphorylation and (or) by direct pyrophosphorylation of IMP.", "contents": "Inosine di- and triphosphate synthesis in erythrocytes and cell extracts. The ability to synthesize inosinetriphosphate was demonstrated in blood cells as well as in a variety of tissue extracts in spite of the presence of ITP pyrophohydrolase. At the expense of having sub-optimal conditions, an assay system was selected that completely repressed the hydrolyzing enzyme, thus permitting the accumulation of ITP. In an attempt to define the biosynthetic pathway of ITP, and since guanylate kinase has been implicated in the formation of ITP, the rate of synthesis of ITP and GTP in cell extracts was compared. The comparison of the specific activities of the [14C]-labeled hypoxanthine and guanine moieties of the inosine and guanosine phosphates formed during incubation with [8-14C]-inosine and [8-14C]-guanosine respectively, revealed striking differences in the relative rates of isotope incorporation. Tentative mechanisms are proposed to explain these differences. The data obtained thus far does not discard the possibility that ITP may be formed by stepwise phosphorylation and (or) by direct pyrophosphorylation of IMP.", "PMID": 457791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12884", "title": "Production of factors required for cell attachment and spreading is a constitutive property in mouse A9 cells.", "content": "It is demonstrated here that cells in a suspension culture of an established mammalian cell line release non-dialyzable factors into their growth medium. These factors are capable of promoting the adhesion and spreading of these cells on a generally non-attachable substratum and also promote spreading on an adhering substrate. Evidence is presented which demonstrates that the spreading promotion activity of the condition medium is dependent on the cell density of the culture from which it was derived. Dilution of the conditioned medium results in a proportionate dilution of the spreading promotion activity. The results clearly demonstrate that the production of this spreading promotion factor is continued even in the absence of cell to substrate attachment.", "contents": "Production of factors required for cell attachment and spreading is a constitutive property in mouse A9 cells. It is demonstrated here that cells in a suspension culture of an established mammalian cell line release non-dialyzable factors into their growth medium. These factors are capable of promoting the adhesion and spreading of these cells on a generally non-attachable substratum and also promote spreading on an adhering substrate. Evidence is presented which demonstrates that the spreading promotion activity of the condition medium is dependent on the cell density of the culture from which it was derived. Dilution of the conditioned medium results in a proportionate dilution of the spreading promotion activity. The results clearly demonstrate that the production of this spreading promotion factor is continued even in the absence of cell to substrate attachment.", "PMID": 457793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12885", "title": "Neurotrophic effect of nerve extract on development of tetrodotoxin-sensitive spike potential in skeletal muscle cells in culture.", "content": "The effect of the presence of nerve extracts on the development of tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive sodium channels in cultures of dissociated embryonic chick skeletal muscle cells was examined by measuring the maximum rate of rise of TTX-sensitive spike potential. The addition of the nerve extract prepared from brain or spinal cord of chick embryos to the culture medium caused an increase in the channel density. Extracts of non-neural tissues, i.e., lung, kidney, and muscle, were ineffective. Liver extract, however, produced an effect similar to the nerve extracts. These results suggest that the TTX-sensitive sodium channels in the muscle cell membrane are regulated by a diffusible chemical substance independently of innervation, and that this substance resides in neural tissues, and perhaps also in liver.", "contents": "Neurotrophic effect of nerve extract on development of tetrodotoxin-sensitive spike potential in skeletal muscle cells in culture. The effect of the presence of nerve extracts on the development of tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive sodium channels in cultures of dissociated embryonic chick skeletal muscle cells was examined by measuring the maximum rate of rise of TTX-sensitive spike potential. The addition of the nerve extract prepared from brain or spinal cord of chick embryos to the culture medium caused an increase in the channel density. Extracts of non-neural tissues, i.e., lung, kidney, and muscle, were ineffective. Liver extract, however, produced an effect similar to the nerve extracts. These results suggest that the TTX-sensitive sodium channels in the muscle cell membrane are regulated by a diffusible chemical substance independently of innervation, and that this substance resides in neural tissues, and perhaps also in liver.", "PMID": 457794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12886", "title": "Isolation of rat hepatoma cell variants selectively resistant to dexamethasone inhibition of plasminogen activator.", "content": "Glucocorticoids induce several phenotypic changes in rat hepatoma cells in tissue culture, including the inhibition of plasminogen activator activity. Variant cell lines resistant to dexamethasone inhibition of plasminogen activator activity have been isolated using an agar-fibrin overlay technique to identify colonies with fibrinolytic (plasminogen activator) activity. The variants are resistant to concentrations of dexamethasone 1,000 times that necessary to completely inhibit plasminogen activator activity in wild-type cells. The variant phenotype has been inherited in a stable manner for more than 300 generations in continuous culture in the absence of dexamethasone. These variants are unique in that the resistance is not secondary to defective or absent glucocorticoid receptors but is due to a lesion specific for regulation of plasminogen activator. Fluctuation analyses support the hypothesis that resistance to dexamethasone arises randomly and is not induced by dexamethasone. Because HTC cells are heteroploid and karyotypically highly variable, variants are thought to arise primarily by chromosomal segregation events. These variants provide a valuable tool for studying the mechanism of hormonal regulation of plasminogen activator as well as the role of proteases in hormonal regulation of membrane functions.", "contents": "Isolation of rat hepatoma cell variants selectively resistant to dexamethasone inhibition of plasminogen activator. Glucocorticoids induce several phenotypic changes in rat hepatoma cells in tissue culture, including the inhibition of plasminogen activator activity. Variant cell lines resistant to dexamethasone inhibition of plasminogen activator activity have been isolated using an agar-fibrin overlay technique to identify colonies with fibrinolytic (plasminogen activator) activity. The variants are resistant to concentrations of dexamethasone 1,000 times that necessary to completely inhibit plasminogen activator activity in wild-type cells. The variant phenotype has been inherited in a stable manner for more than 300 generations in continuous culture in the absence of dexamethasone. These variants are unique in that the resistance is not secondary to defective or absent glucocorticoid receptors but is due to a lesion specific for regulation of plasminogen activator. Fluctuation analyses support the hypothesis that resistance to dexamethasone arises randomly and is not induced by dexamethasone. Because HTC cells are heteroploid and karyotypically highly variable, variants are thought to arise primarily by chromosomal segregation events. These variants provide a valuable tool for studying the mechanism of hormonal regulation of plasminogen activator as well as the role of proteases in hormonal regulation of membrane functions.", "PMID": 457795} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12887", "title": "Steroid hormone toxicity in human fibroblasts does not correlate with high affinity receptor content.", "content": "Human diploid skin fibroblasts derived from normal individuals and those with the testicular feminization syndrome (TFM) have been shown to be killed to the same degree by dihydrotestosterone in spite of the absence of high affinity cellular androgen receptors in the TFM fibroblasts. Furthermore, several different normal fibroblast strains from various anatomical sites all showed similar amounts of androgen-induced cytotoxicity even though their respective receptor contents differed by as much as ten-fold. These results suggest that steroid-induced cytotoxicity in human fibroblasts is not correlated with receptor content, unlike murine lymphoid cells in which the receptor content has been shown to be closely related to their ability to survive hormone exposure.", "contents": "Steroid hormone toxicity in human fibroblasts does not correlate with high affinity receptor content. Human diploid skin fibroblasts derived from normal individuals and those with the testicular feminization syndrome (TFM) have been shown to be killed to the same degree by dihydrotestosterone in spite of the absence of high affinity cellular androgen receptors in the TFM fibroblasts. Furthermore, several different normal fibroblast strains from various anatomical sites all showed similar amounts of androgen-induced cytotoxicity even though their respective receptor contents differed by as much as ten-fold. These results suggest that steroid-induced cytotoxicity in human fibroblasts is not correlated with receptor content, unlike murine lymphoid cells in which the receptor content has been shown to be closely related to their ability to survive hormone exposure.", "PMID": 457796} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12888", "title": "Regulation of surface antigen expression in Paramecium primaurelia. II. Role of the surface antigen itself.", "content": "In the wild-type strains, 156 and 168, of Paramecium primaurelia, the alleles G156 and G168 expressed at medium temperature specify two immunologically distinguishable surface antigens 156G and 168G, whose phenotypic expression shows allelic exclusion, the majority of heterozygotes being phenotypically [156G] while a small minority is phenotypically [156G-168G]. At high temperature, the antigens coded by another locus, generally the D locus, are expressed. This system, displaying both intergenic and interallelic exclusion, provides favourable material to analyze the respective roles of the genome, of the antigens expressed and of the environmental conditions, in particular temperature, on the regulation of the expression of surface antigens. This analysis was carried out by studying the variations of the expression of surface antigens as a function of temperature, culture medium and previously expressed antigens in different genetic situations (a) in homozygotes: the wild-type strains 156 and 168, and the isogenized strains \"G156 isogenic 168 carrying the G156 allele in a 168 genetic background; (b) in heterozygotes of the two phenotypic classes of heterozygotes, [156G] and [156G-168G]. The results show that (1) the thermal stability of the expression of a given surface antigen and its rate of re-appearance at the cell surface depend on its own specificity; (2) in heterozygotes [156G-168G], the stability of the expression of the antigen 156G is modified and \"adjusted\" to that of the less stable surface antigen 168G, and (3) the surface antigen itself exerts a positive control on the maintenance of its own expression. An interpretative model of \"transmembranous control\" is proposed to account for the regulation of the expression of surface antigens in Paramecium.", "contents": "Regulation of surface antigen expression in Paramecium primaurelia. II. Role of the surface antigen itself. In the wild-type strains, 156 and 168, of Paramecium primaurelia, the alleles G156 and G168 expressed at medium temperature specify two immunologically distinguishable surface antigens 156G and 168G, whose phenotypic expression shows allelic exclusion, the majority of heterozygotes being phenotypically [156G] while a small minority is phenotypically [156G-168G]. At high temperature, the antigens coded by another locus, generally the D locus, are expressed. This system, displaying both intergenic and interallelic exclusion, provides favourable material to analyze the respective roles of the genome, of the antigens expressed and of the environmental conditions, in particular temperature, on the regulation of the expression of surface antigens. This analysis was carried out by studying the variations of the expression of surface antigens as a function of temperature, culture medium and previously expressed antigens in different genetic situations (a) in homozygotes: the wild-type strains 156 and 168, and the isogenized strains \"G156 isogenic 168 carrying the G156 allele in a 168 genetic background; (b) in heterozygotes of the two phenotypic classes of heterozygotes, [156G] and [156G-168G]. The results show that (1) the thermal stability of the expression of a given surface antigen and its rate of re-appearance at the cell surface depend on its own specificity; (2) in heterozygotes [156G-168G], the stability of the expression of the antigen 156G is modified and \"adjusted\" to that of the less stable surface antigen 168G, and (3) the surface antigen itself exerts a positive control on the maintenance of its own expression. An interpretative model of \"transmembranous control\" is proposed to account for the regulation of the expression of surface antigens in Paramecium.", "PMID": 457798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12889", "title": "Membrane effects of tumor promoters: stimulation of sugar uptake in mammalian cell cultures.", "content": "Phorbol esters stimulate 2-deoxy-D-glucose (DG) uptake in rodent and human cell cultures. The potent tumor promoting agent, 12-0-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13 acetate (TPA), induces a 12-fold stimulation in confluent 3T3 cells and 2.5-fold stimulation in HeLa cells. When a series of macrocyclic deterpenes are assayed, their relative potencies in stimulating DG uptake in 3T3 cells correlate with other known biologic effects of these compounds. On a molar basis, TPA is a much more potent stimulator of DG transport than insulin or epidermal growth factor. In HeLa cells, the ED50 value of the TPA effect is 0.2 nM. The increase in DG uptake occurs immediately after the addition of TPA, reaches a maximum at 90 minutes, persists for at least three hours after removal of TPA from the medium, and is temperature dependent. The stimulation is not inhibited by cycloheximide or actinomycin D. As in control cells, DG uptake in TPA treated cells is inhibited by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate, phyloridzin, cytochalasin B, and dexamethasone. Although the precise mechanism is not known, evidence is presented that the TPA stimulation of DG uptake is due to enhanced transport of the sugar rather than to effects on intracellular metabolism. The enhanced transport may be secondary to a more generalized change in membrane structure.", "contents": "Membrane effects of tumor promoters: stimulation of sugar uptake in mammalian cell cultures. Phorbol esters stimulate 2-deoxy-D-glucose (DG) uptake in rodent and human cell cultures. The potent tumor promoting agent, 12-0-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13 acetate (TPA), induces a 12-fold stimulation in confluent 3T3 cells and 2.5-fold stimulation in HeLa cells. When a series of macrocyclic deterpenes are assayed, their relative potencies in stimulating DG uptake in 3T3 cells correlate with other known biologic effects of these compounds. On a molar basis, TPA is a much more potent stimulator of DG transport than insulin or epidermal growth factor. In HeLa cells, the ED50 value of the TPA effect is 0.2 nM. The increase in DG uptake occurs immediately after the addition of TPA, reaches a maximum at 90 minutes, persists for at least three hours after removal of TPA from the medium, and is temperature dependent. The stimulation is not inhibited by cycloheximide or actinomycin D. As in control cells, DG uptake in TPA treated cells is inhibited by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate, phyloridzin, cytochalasin B, and dexamethasone. Although the precise mechanism is not known, evidence is presented that the TPA stimulation of DG uptake is due to enhanced transport of the sugar rather than to effects on intracellular metabolism. The enhanced transport may be secondary to a more generalized change in membrane structure.", "PMID": 457799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12890", "title": "Pollen-pistil incompatibility in Petunia hybrida: changes in the pistil following compatible and incompatible intraspecific crosses.", "content": "The structural events in the stigma and transmitting tissue of Petunia hybrida pistils that accompany compatible and incompatible intraspecific pollinations have been investigated in detail, together with the changes in reserve levels that also take place at this time. Many of these phenomena may be explained in terms of 3 phases of secretion by the cells in the upper regions of the transmitting tissue. The first, independent of pollination, results in the deposition of an intercellular matrix, rich in protein and carbohydrate. The second, triggered by pollination, although independent of the compatibility of the pollen grain, involves synthesis of molecules believed to be specific to the S(incompatibility)-gene system. The third phase of secretion occurs only following a compatible mating, and involves the transfer of stylar reserves to support the growth of the pollen tubes. These observations are discussed in terms of current models of the incompatibility mechanism operating in Petunia.", "contents": "Pollen-pistil incompatibility in Petunia hybrida: changes in the pistil following compatible and incompatible intraspecific crosses. The structural events in the stigma and transmitting tissue of Petunia hybrida pistils that accompany compatible and incompatible intraspecific pollinations have been investigated in detail, together with the changes in reserve levels that also take place at this time. Many of these phenomena may be explained in terms of 3 phases of secretion by the cells in the upper regions of the transmitting tissue. The first, independent of pollination, results in the deposition of an intercellular matrix, rich in protein and carbohydrate. The second, triggered by pollination, although independent of the compatibility of the pollen grain, involves synthesis of molecules believed to be specific to the S(incompatibility)-gene system. The third phase of secretion occurs only following a compatible mating, and involves the transfer of stylar reserves to support the growth of the pollen tubes. These observations are discussed in terms of current models of the incompatibility mechanism operating in Petunia.", "PMID": 457800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12891", "title": "Unidirectional regeneration is an intrinsic property of longitudinal microtubules in Tetrahymena--an in vivo study.", "content": "The cortex of Tetrahymena contains a regular array of longitudinal microtubular bands (lms) next to basal body rows running from pole to pole. The lm exhibits a predominant unidirectionality in assembly. The direction of regeneration following breakage of the microtubules is from posterior to anterior of the cell. When the lm and the accompanying basal body row are rotated 180 degrees (inverted), so that their polarity is opposite to that of the cell, the predominant direction of regeneration exhibited by the inverted lm is from anterior to posterior. This shows that the lm has an inherent direction of regeneration independent of cellular polarity. This implies that the microtubules constituting the lm have an intrinsic property which controls the direction of assembly. This finding is in accord with the in vitro demonstration using Chlamydomonas flagellar fragments. On the basis of this finding and also the possible pattern of arrangement of the microtubules constituting the lm, it is suggested that growth of the lm involves both elongation of pre-existing microtubules constituting the lm and also laying down of new ones.", "contents": "Unidirectional regeneration is an intrinsic property of longitudinal microtubules in Tetrahymena--an in vivo study. The cortex of Tetrahymena contains a regular array of longitudinal microtubular bands (lms) next to basal body rows running from pole to pole. The lm exhibits a predominant unidirectionality in assembly. The direction of regeneration following breakage of the microtubules is from posterior to anterior of the cell. When the lm and the accompanying basal body row are rotated 180 degrees (inverted), so that their polarity is opposite to that of the cell, the predominant direction of regeneration exhibited by the inverted lm is from anterior to posterior. This shows that the lm has an inherent direction of regeneration independent of cellular polarity. This implies that the microtubules constituting the lm have an intrinsic property which controls the direction of assembly. This finding is in accord with the in vitro demonstration using Chlamydomonas flagellar fragments. On the basis of this finding and also the possible pattern of arrangement of the microtubules constituting the lm, it is suggested that growth of the lm involves both elongation of pre-existing microtubules constituting the lm and also laying down of new ones.", "PMID": 457801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12892", "title": "Experimentally induced differentiation of slow tonic and fast twitch muscles in the chick.", "content": "The anterior latissimus dorsi (ALD) muscle of chickens is a slow tonic muscle, while the posterior latissimus dorsi (PLD) is a fast twitch muscle. These muscles on opposite sides of a 3-week-old chick were removed, minced and replaced in the site of the other muscle and left to regenerate. The regenerating muscles were examined at various periods from 4 days onwards and their contractile properties were found to resemble those typical of the muscle they replaced and not the original muscle. The regenerating muscles from 8 days onwards displayed the morphological features of the control muscles in the contralateral site. By 14 days, differentiation was almost complete and neuromuscular junctions were seen. It is suggested that the physiological and morphological characteristics of a muscle are determined by its position and possibly also by its innervation.", "contents": "Experimentally induced differentiation of slow tonic and fast twitch muscles in the chick. The anterior latissimus dorsi (ALD) muscle of chickens is a slow tonic muscle, while the posterior latissimus dorsi (PLD) is a fast twitch muscle. These muscles on opposite sides of a 3-week-old chick were removed, minced and replaced in the site of the other muscle and left to regenerate. The regenerating muscles were examined at various periods from 4 days onwards and their contractile properties were found to resemble those typical of the muscle they replaced and not the original muscle. The regenerating muscles from 8 days onwards displayed the morphological features of the control muscles in the contralateral site. By 14 days, differentiation was almost complete and neuromuscular junctions were seen. It is suggested that the physiological and morphological characteristics of a muscle are determined by its position and possibly also by its innervation.", "PMID": 457802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12893", "title": "A control acting over the initiation of DNA replication in the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe.", "content": "The control of cell division in the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe appears to be quite different to that of any other eukaryotic organisms for it is usually exerted not at the initiation of S-phase but at that of mitosis. However, it has been suggested that a control over the initiation of S-phase does also exist but that its action is redundant whilst the mitotic control is operating. This study has chosen conditions in which the latter appears to be largely absent in order to study the cryptic S-phase control. The timing of S-phase has been studied in cells grown at varying rates under nitrogen limitation in a chemostat. It is found that under these conditions the control of cell division resembles that of other eukaryotes. As the dilution rate of the chemostat is reduced, all increase in the generation time can be accounted for by a lengthened G1 period. In contrast, the length of S + G2 remains invariant. Thus, there must indeed be a control acting in G1 in S. pombe. An analysis of the size of cells at different growth rates shows that the initiation of S-phase is correlated with a particular cell size.", "contents": "A control acting over the initiation of DNA replication in the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The control of cell division in the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe appears to be quite different to that of any other eukaryotic organisms for it is usually exerted not at the initiation of S-phase but at that of mitosis. However, it has been suggested that a control over the initiation of S-phase does also exist but that its action is redundant whilst the mitotic control is operating. This study has chosen conditions in which the latter appears to be largely absent in order to study the cryptic S-phase control. The timing of S-phase has been studied in cells grown at varying rates under nitrogen limitation in a chemostat. It is found that under these conditions the control of cell division resembles that of other eukaryotes. As the dilution rate of the chemostat is reduced, all increase in the generation time can be accounted for by a lengthened G1 period. In contrast, the length of S + G2 remains invariant. Thus, there must indeed be a control acting in G1 in S. pombe. An analysis of the size of cells at different growth rates shows that the initiation of S-phase is correlated with a particular cell size.", "PMID": 457803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12894", "title": "The association of chloroplast DNA with photosynthetic membrane vesicles from spinach chloroplasts.", "content": "To investigate the association between chloroplast DNA (cp DNA) and the photosynthetic membranes of spinach chloroplasts, previously suggested by electron-microscope autoradiography, use has been made of vesicles formed by isolating chloroplasts directly in 3.5 mM Mg2+. These chloroplast vesicles consist of photosynthetic membranes, separate from chloroplast envelope membranes. Light and electron microscopy confirm that the vesicles consist of swollen stroma lamellar membranes with some peripheral grana lamellae that are much less swollen. Vesicles labelled with [H]thymidine were obtained from [3H]thymidine-labelled chloroplasts from spinach disks in which chloroplast division and cp DNA synthesis and segregation were occurring. The chloroplast vesicle fraction retains about 45% of the cp DNA as determined by liquid scintillation counting. The cp DNA-membrane associations do not appear to be dependent on the presence of Mg2+. The chloroplast vesicles can be autoradiographed for light microscopy if they are fixed in formaldehyde and no centrifugation steps are used. Light-microscope autoradiography is consistent with a preferential labelling of grana as opposed to stroma membranes, and long lengths of membrane are labelled. It appears that in spinach chloroplasts cp DNA is associated with granal thylakoids at intervals along the length of a continuous photosynthetic membrane system. Such an organization would facilitate cp DNA segregation during chloroplast division.", "contents": "The association of chloroplast DNA with photosynthetic membrane vesicles from spinach chloroplasts. To investigate the association between chloroplast DNA (cp DNA) and the photosynthetic membranes of spinach chloroplasts, previously suggested by electron-microscope autoradiography, use has been made of vesicles formed by isolating chloroplasts directly in 3.5 mM Mg2+. These chloroplast vesicles consist of photosynthetic membranes, separate from chloroplast envelope membranes. Light and electron microscopy confirm that the vesicles consist of swollen stroma lamellar membranes with some peripheral grana lamellae that are much less swollen. Vesicles labelled with [H]thymidine were obtained from [3H]thymidine-labelled chloroplasts from spinach disks in which chloroplast division and cp DNA synthesis and segregation were occurring. The chloroplast vesicle fraction retains about 45% of the cp DNA as determined by liquid scintillation counting. The cp DNA-membrane associations do not appear to be dependent on the presence of Mg2+. The chloroplast vesicles can be autoradiographed for light microscopy if they are fixed in formaldehyde and no centrifugation steps are used. Light-microscope autoradiography is consistent with a preferential labelling of grana as opposed to stroma membranes, and long lengths of membrane are labelled. It appears that in spinach chloroplasts cp DNA is associated with granal thylakoids at intervals along the length of a continuous photosynthetic membrane system. Such an organization would facilitate cp DNA segregation during chloroplast division.", "PMID": 457804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12895", "title": "Replication in Drosophila chromosomes. I. Replication of intranucleolar DNA in polytene cells of D. nasuta.", "content": "The organization and replication of intranucleolar DNA in polytene cells of Drosophila nasuta have been examined. Normal Giemsa and fluorescent (Hoechst 33258 and quinacrine mustard) staining reveal that in D. nasuta polytene cells, the intranucleolar DNA is organized into condensed and disperse forms and very often shows connexion to the alpha heterochromatin of the chromocentre. Results of [3H]thymidine autoradiography indicate that the known underreplication of rDNA sequences in polytene cells is due to the slower replication of the intranucleolar DNA. Some aspects of the organization of condensed and disperse intranucleolar DNA are discussed.", "contents": "Replication in Drosophila chromosomes. I. Replication of intranucleolar DNA in polytene cells of D. nasuta. The organization and replication of intranucleolar DNA in polytene cells of Drosophila nasuta have been examined. Normal Giemsa and fluorescent (Hoechst 33258 and quinacrine mustard) staining reveal that in D. nasuta polytene cells, the intranucleolar DNA is organized into condensed and disperse forms and very often shows connexion to the alpha heterochromatin of the chromocentre. Results of [3H]thymidine autoradiography indicate that the known underreplication of rDNA sequences in polytene cells is due to the slower replication of the intranucleolar DNA. Some aspects of the organization of condensed and disperse intranucleolar DNA are discussed.", "PMID": 457805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12896", "title": "Fertilization in brown algae. II. Evidence for lectin-sensitive complementary receptors involved in gamete recognition in Fucus serratus.", "content": "Fertilization in Fucus serratus is directly proportional to the number of sperm added, saturating at approximately 250 sperm per egg with an apparent Km of 120 sperm per egg. The effect of a range of lectins on fertilization has been tested. Preincubation of gametes with Con A and fucose-binding protein (FBP) inhibited fertilization. At low concentrations this was by specifically binding to eggs; at high concentrations pretreatment of either gametes inhibited fertilization probably due to cytotoxicity. Fertilization was not inhibited by simple sugar haptens, but polysaccharides containing fucosyl or mannosyl residues (yeast mannan, fucoidan, ascophyllan) inhibited fertilization by binding to sperm. Pretreatment of eggs with alpha-fucosidase or alpha-mannosidase was effective in inhibiting fertilization. All the results indirectly demonstrate that fertilization in Fucus serratus is based on an association between fucosyl- and mannosyl-containing ligands on the egg surface and specific carbohydrate-binding receptors on the sperm surface.", "contents": "Fertilization in brown algae. II. Evidence for lectin-sensitive complementary receptors involved in gamete recognition in Fucus serratus. Fertilization in Fucus serratus is directly proportional to the number of sperm added, saturating at approximately 250 sperm per egg with an apparent Km of 120 sperm per egg. The effect of a range of lectins on fertilization has been tested. Preincubation of gametes with Con A and fucose-binding protein (FBP) inhibited fertilization. At low concentrations this was by specifically binding to eggs; at high concentrations pretreatment of either gametes inhibited fertilization probably due to cytotoxicity. Fertilization was not inhibited by simple sugar haptens, but polysaccharides containing fucosyl or mannosyl residues (yeast mannan, fucoidan, ascophyllan) inhibited fertilization by binding to sperm. Pretreatment of eggs with alpha-fucosidase or alpha-mannosidase was effective in inhibiting fertilization. All the results indirectly demonstrate that fertilization in Fucus serratus is based on an association between fucosyl- and mannosyl-containing ligands on the egg surface and specific carbohydrate-binding receptors on the sperm surface.", "PMID": 457806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12897", "title": "Spermatogenesis in Trichosia pubescens (Diptera:Sciaridae).", "content": "This paper deals with the meiotic process in males of T. pubescens. The spermatocytes of this species are associated in clusters (rosettes) of some fifteen cells which are fairly synchronized during spermatogenesis. During meiosis, which is typically achiasmatic, 2 sets of chromosomes are eliminated into a narrow neck of cytoplasm (bud) which protrudes from the cell pole facing the centre of the rosette. The bud formation starts prior to the onset of the meiosis. The spindle that appears during the first meiotic division is unipolar with the fibres running from the pole at the end away from the bud up to the equatorial region of the cell. The chromosomes which move toward the spindle pole display a V-shape while the others, moving budward, do not show any consistent shape. We suggest that a special mechanism of chromosome motion is involved in the migration of these chromosomes. The second meiotic division is fairly similar to the ordinary type observed in other organisms except for the migration of both chromatids of one chromosome precociously toward the pole opposite the bud. At this division a typical bipolar spindle is present and all migrating chromosomes display a V-shape. The chromosomes eliminated during the first meiotic division clump together remaining in a pycnotic state at the distal portion of the bud until the end of spermatogenesis. The chromosomal set eliminated at the second meiotic division, as compared to the first, decondense simultaneously with the group located in the cell body forming a typical interphase nucleus. T. pubescens has 3 chromosomes limited to the germ-line cells. These chromosomes are typically heterochromatic, replicating their DNA out of phase with the S-chromosomes, probably at a later stage in interphase. Our results suggest that they are transcriptionally active in the interphase between the 2 meiotic divisions and just after the meiotic process.", "contents": "Spermatogenesis in Trichosia pubescens (Diptera:Sciaridae). This paper deals with the meiotic process in males of T. pubescens. The spermatocytes of this species are associated in clusters (rosettes) of some fifteen cells which are fairly synchronized during spermatogenesis. During meiosis, which is typically achiasmatic, 2 sets of chromosomes are eliminated into a narrow neck of cytoplasm (bud) which protrudes from the cell pole facing the centre of the rosette. The bud formation starts prior to the onset of the meiosis. The spindle that appears during the first meiotic division is unipolar with the fibres running from the pole at the end away from the bud up to the equatorial region of the cell. The chromosomes which move toward the spindle pole display a V-shape while the others, moving budward, do not show any consistent shape. We suggest that a special mechanism of chromosome motion is involved in the migration of these chromosomes. The second meiotic division is fairly similar to the ordinary type observed in other organisms except for the migration of both chromatids of one chromosome precociously toward the pole opposite the bud. At this division a typical bipolar spindle is present and all migrating chromosomes display a V-shape. The chromosomes eliminated during the first meiotic division clump together remaining in a pycnotic state at the distal portion of the bud until the end of spermatogenesis. The chromosomal set eliminated at the second meiotic division, as compared to the first, decondense simultaneously with the group located in the cell body forming a typical interphase nucleus. T. pubescens has 3 chromosomes limited to the germ-line cells. These chromosomes are typically heterochromatic, replicating their DNA out of phase with the S-chromosomes, probably at a later stage in interphase. Our results suggest that they are transcriptionally active in the interphase between the 2 meiotic divisions and just after the meiotic process.", "PMID": 457807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12898", "title": "Extent and rate of chromosome segregation in two intraspecific mouse cell hybrids: A9 x diploid foetal erythrocyte and A9 x B82.", "content": "Patterns of chromosome segregation were studied in 2 different intraspecific mouse cell hybrids: (1) A9 x B82, formed by fusing 2 cell lines of heteroploid fibroblasts, and (2) UWE, originating from the fusion of A9 cells with euploid foetal erythrocytes. Detailed analyses of Giemsa (G)-banded chromosomes and chromosome arms of both parental and hybrid cells were made for each hybrid type, in order to determine the specificity of the losses and to assess the influence of ploidy and cell differentiation. Unlike the A9 x B82 hybrids, which revealed a significant chromosome loss under selective tissue culture pressures only after 9 months, the UWE hybrids showed a sharp reduction in the total chromosome number during the initial 2 months under similar pressures. However, with no additional cloning, UWE remained karyotypically stable after that time. This rapid chromosomal segregation in UWE hybrids may be caused by properties of the parental foetal erythrocytes. In UWE cells, the majority of the chromosome arms were retained or duplicated. Less than a quarter of the total number of chromosome arms were segregated or lost, and these were all chromosome arms with abnormal mouse G-banding patterns, present only in the heteroploid A9 parental cells. In two of the four A9 x B82 hybrid lines, there was marked segregation of chromosome arms whose banding patterns were identical to those of wild type mouse telocentric chromosomes. For both types of intraspecific cell hybrids, two thirds or more of the chromosome arms had banding patterns which were the same as those of the wild type genome.", "contents": "Extent and rate of chromosome segregation in two intraspecific mouse cell hybrids: A9 x diploid foetal erythrocyte and A9 x B82. Patterns of chromosome segregation were studied in 2 different intraspecific mouse cell hybrids: (1) A9 x B82, formed by fusing 2 cell lines of heteroploid fibroblasts, and (2) UWE, originating from the fusion of A9 cells with euploid foetal erythrocytes. Detailed analyses of Giemsa (G)-banded chromosomes and chromosome arms of both parental and hybrid cells were made for each hybrid type, in order to determine the specificity of the losses and to assess the influence of ploidy and cell differentiation. Unlike the A9 x B82 hybrids, which revealed a significant chromosome loss under selective tissue culture pressures only after 9 months, the UWE hybrids showed a sharp reduction in the total chromosome number during the initial 2 months under similar pressures. However, with no additional cloning, UWE remained karyotypically stable after that time. This rapid chromosomal segregation in UWE hybrids may be caused by properties of the parental foetal erythrocytes. In UWE cells, the majority of the chromosome arms were retained or duplicated. Less than a quarter of the total number of chromosome arms were segregated or lost, and these were all chromosome arms with abnormal mouse G-banding patterns, present only in the heteroploid A9 parental cells. In two of the four A9 x B82 hybrid lines, there was marked segregation of chromosome arms whose banding patterns were identical to those of wild type mouse telocentric chromosomes. For both types of intraspecific cell hybrids, two thirds or more of the chromosome arms had banding patterns which were the same as those of the wild type genome.", "PMID": 457808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12899", "title": "Cell-associated proteases affect tumour cell migration in vitro.", "content": "The in vitro migratory activity of mouse fibrosarcoma cells in medium containing either foetal calf serum or normal human serum was studied. These 2 sera were studied because foetal calf serum contains high levels of protease inhibitor activity while human serum contains much less. The cells migrated actively in medium with foetal calf serum but migration was greatly inhibited in human serum-containing medium. When protease inhibitors such as soybean trypsin inhibitor, lima bean trypsin inhibitor and bovine pancreas trypsin inhibitor were added to human serum-containing medium cell migration was supported almost as effectively as in medium with foetal calf serum. Addition of epsilon-amino-n-caproic acid to human serum or depletion of the plasminogen from human serum did not enable it to support enhanced migration. epsilon-amino-n-caproic acid actually inhibited migration. A variant cell population with elevated levels of caseinolytic activity and elevated levels of activity against the substrate n-acetyl-DL-phenylalanine-beta-naphthyl ester (a substrate specific for chymotrypsin-like enzymes) was isolated from the parent cells. When the variant cells were compared to the parent cells regarding migratory activity in foetal calf serum or human serum-containing medium, the variant cells showed much less activity. Only a few, widely scattered variant cells migrated in the human serum-containing medium. These data suggest that a cell-associated factor interferes with the migration of the cells in medium with human serum. This factor apparently is neutralized in medium sontaining human serum to which protease inhibitors with antitrypsin activity have been added.", "contents": "Cell-associated proteases affect tumour cell migration in vitro. The in vitro migratory activity of mouse fibrosarcoma cells in medium containing either foetal calf serum or normal human serum was studied. These 2 sera were studied because foetal calf serum contains high levels of protease inhibitor activity while human serum contains much less. The cells migrated actively in medium with foetal calf serum but migration was greatly inhibited in human serum-containing medium. When protease inhibitors such as soybean trypsin inhibitor, lima bean trypsin inhibitor and bovine pancreas trypsin inhibitor were added to human serum-containing medium cell migration was supported almost as effectively as in medium with foetal calf serum. Addition of epsilon-amino-n-caproic acid to human serum or depletion of the plasminogen from human serum did not enable it to support enhanced migration. epsilon-amino-n-caproic acid actually inhibited migration. A variant cell population with elevated levels of caseinolytic activity and elevated levels of activity against the substrate n-acetyl-DL-phenylalanine-beta-naphthyl ester (a substrate specific for chymotrypsin-like enzymes) was isolated from the parent cells. When the variant cells were compared to the parent cells regarding migratory activity in foetal calf serum or human serum-containing medium, the variant cells showed much less activity. Only a few, widely scattered variant cells migrated in the human serum-containing medium. These data suggest that a cell-associated factor interferes with the migration of the cells in medium with human serum. This factor apparently is neutralized in medium sontaining human serum to which protease inhibitors with antitrypsin activity have been added.", "PMID": 457809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12900", "title": "Specificity of the immaturity substances in Paramecium.", "content": "Cytoplasm of Paramecium caudatum syngen 3 in the period of sexual immaturity was effective in inducing immaturity when injected into mating-reactive cells of other syngens of P. caudatum. When immature cytoplasm of P. caudatum was injected into mature cells of P. multimicronucleatum, immaturity was also induced in the latter cells. When cytoplasm of P. bursaria in the immaturity period was injected into mature cells of the same species, the latter became immature. But immature cytoplasm of P. caudatum was ineffective when injected into mature cells of P. bursaria. When immature cytoplasm of P. busaria was injected into mature cells of P. caudatum, no difference from the control was observed. These results suggest that a difference in specificity of the immaturity substances exists bewteen paramecia of the 'aurelia' group and those of the 'bursaria' group.", "contents": "Specificity of the immaturity substances in Paramecium. Cytoplasm of Paramecium caudatum syngen 3 in the period of sexual immaturity was effective in inducing immaturity when injected into mating-reactive cells of other syngens of P. caudatum. When immature cytoplasm of P. caudatum was injected into mature cells of P. multimicronucleatum, immaturity was also induced in the latter cells. When cytoplasm of P. bursaria in the immaturity period was injected into mature cells of the same species, the latter became immature. But immature cytoplasm of P. caudatum was ineffective when injected into mature cells of P. bursaria. When immature cytoplasm of P. busaria was injected into mature cells of P. caudatum, no difference from the control was observed. These results suggest that a difference in specificity of the immaturity substances exists bewteen paramecia of the 'aurelia' group and those of the 'bursaria' group.", "PMID": 457810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12901", "title": "Preaggregative cell motion in Dictyostelium.", "content": "The motions of a large number (495) of preaggregative D. discoideum NC-4 cells in sparse fields are recorded on time-lapse film and analysed using a specially constructed computer graphics system. All films are produced under a standard set of conditions, so that the range of cell behaviours under given conditions can be characterized. The mean velocity of pre-aggregative D. discoideum NC-4 is 7.19 micrometers/min. The mean velocity time course has a significant early peak at about 3 h. The distribution of mean velocities is fairly broad with a long high velocity tail. A modified random walk model using the parameters diffusion constant and persistence time describes well the changes in cell direction with time. Persistence can be described as an exponentially distributed 'memory' of movement direction, with a mean of 4.89 min. High velocity cells never have long persistence times, and persistence time shows no relationship with age. A nearest neighbour model of cell spacing shows that cells are randomly (Poisson) distributed at low densities. Measurements of cell contacts are compared to a simple model of contact frequency based on the kinetic theory of gases to show that cells at low densities have an affinity for making collisions. The length of contact durations is indicative of some mechanical adhesion between cells, and cells in contact move significantly though not dramatically slower. A cross-correlation analysis shows that the various parameters of motion are significantly interrelated in numerous ways. Finally mutants and strains related to D. discoideum NC-4 exhibit a number of new behaviours, suggesting that motion is a distinctive characteristic of cell type.", "contents": "Preaggregative cell motion in Dictyostelium. The motions of a large number (495) of preaggregative D. discoideum NC-4 cells in sparse fields are recorded on time-lapse film and analysed using a specially constructed computer graphics system. All films are produced under a standard set of conditions, so that the range of cell behaviours under given conditions can be characterized. The mean velocity of pre-aggregative D. discoideum NC-4 is 7.19 micrometers/min. The mean velocity time course has a significant early peak at about 3 h. The distribution of mean velocities is fairly broad with a long high velocity tail. A modified random walk model using the parameters diffusion constant and persistence time describes well the changes in cell direction with time. Persistence can be described as an exponentially distributed 'memory' of movement direction, with a mean of 4.89 min. High velocity cells never have long persistence times, and persistence time shows no relationship with age. A nearest neighbour model of cell spacing shows that cells are randomly (Poisson) distributed at low densities. Measurements of cell contacts are compared to a simple model of contact frequency based on the kinetic theory of gases to show that cells at low densities have an affinity for making collisions. The length of contact durations is indicative of some mechanical adhesion between cells, and cells in contact move significantly though not dramatically slower. A cross-correlation analysis shows that the various parameters of motion are significantly interrelated in numerous ways. Finally mutants and strains related to D. discoideum NC-4 exhibit a number of new behaviours, suggesting that motion is a distinctive characteristic of cell type.", "PMID": 457811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12902", "title": "Effect of concanavalin A dose, unbound concanavalin A, temperature, Ca2+ and Mg2+, and vinblastine on capping of concanavalin A receptors of human peripheral blood lymphocytes.", "content": "The capping of Concanavalin A (Con A) receptors induced by Con A was studied using human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The effects of Con A dose (5--100 micrograms/ml), pretreatment at 4 degrees C, unbound Con A, extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ and vinblastine were evaluated using Con A-horseradish peroxidase and electron microscopy. Lymphocytes incubated with Con A at 4 degrees C and fixed with glutaraldehyde exhibited Con A-horseradish peroxidase around the entire cell periphery. After raising the temperature to 37 degrees C, the Con A-horseradish peroxidase moved to form a cap at one pole of the cell and subsequently underwent endocytosis. Capping of Con A receptors induced by Con A at 37 degrees C was observed only at low Con A concentrations in the presence of unbound Con A and extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+. Increased capping was found after pretreatment of cells with Con A at 4 degrees C, removing unbound Con A and/or removing extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+, and by treatment with vinblastine. Following removal of both unbound Con A and extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+, the percentage of capped cells at 37 degrees C was the same as on pretreatment at 4 degrees C under the same conditions. While pretreatment at 4 degrees C caused the breakdown of microtubules, removal of unbound Con A and/or extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ had no morphological effect on microtubules or microfilaments. Following exposure of lymphocytes to vinblastine and removal of unbound Con A, capping of Con A receptors by Con A was observed in over 90% of cells at all Con A dosages. However, when cells were exposed to vinblastine in the presence of unbound Con A the formation of Con A caps was either partially or completely inhibited.", "contents": "Effect of concanavalin A dose, unbound concanavalin A, temperature, Ca2+ and Mg2+, and vinblastine on capping of concanavalin A receptors of human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The capping of Concanavalin A (Con A) receptors induced by Con A was studied using human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The effects of Con A dose (5--100 micrograms/ml), pretreatment at 4 degrees C, unbound Con A, extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ and vinblastine were evaluated using Con A-horseradish peroxidase and electron microscopy. Lymphocytes incubated with Con A at 4 degrees C and fixed with glutaraldehyde exhibited Con A-horseradish peroxidase around the entire cell periphery. After raising the temperature to 37 degrees C, the Con A-horseradish peroxidase moved to form a cap at one pole of the cell and subsequently underwent endocytosis. Capping of Con A receptors induced by Con A at 37 degrees C was observed only at low Con A concentrations in the presence of unbound Con A and extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+. Increased capping was found after pretreatment of cells with Con A at 4 degrees C, removing unbound Con A and/or removing extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+, and by treatment with vinblastine. Following removal of both unbound Con A and extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+, the percentage of capped cells at 37 degrees C was the same as on pretreatment at 4 degrees C under the same conditions. While pretreatment at 4 degrees C caused the breakdown of microtubules, removal of unbound Con A and/or extracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ had no morphological effect on microtubules or microfilaments. Following exposure of lymphocytes to vinblastine and removal of unbound Con A, capping of Con A receptors by Con A was observed in over 90% of cells at all Con A dosages. However, when cells were exposed to vinblastine in the presence of unbound Con A the formation of Con A caps was either partially or completely inhibited.", "PMID": 457812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12903", "title": "Plasmalemma invaginations of Physarum dependent on the nutritional content of the plasmodial environment.", "content": "Quantitative estimates of plasmalemma invaginations in plasmodial veins of Physarum polycephalum were made under different conditions of nutrition. Pronounced differences were observed dependent on the nutritional content of the substrate. There was a decided increase in the number of plasmalemma invaginations in plasmodial veins grown on substrates containing absorbable food substances compared to veins migrating on non-nutrient substrates. This observation supports the proposition that the nutritional content, rather than the physical properties, of the substrate is the decisive factor for the formation of plasmalemma invaginations. The invaginations are believed to be concerned with the uptake of non-particulate food substances.", "contents": "Plasmalemma invaginations of Physarum dependent on the nutritional content of the plasmodial environment. Quantitative estimates of plasmalemma invaginations in plasmodial veins of Physarum polycephalum were made under different conditions of nutrition. Pronounced differences were observed dependent on the nutritional content of the substrate. There was a decided increase in the number of plasmalemma invaginations in plasmodial veins grown on substrates containing absorbable food substances compared to veins migrating on non-nutrient substrates. This observation supports the proposition that the nutritional content, rather than the physical properties, of the substrate is the decisive factor for the formation of plasmalemma invaginations. The invaginations are believed to be concerned with the uptake of non-particulate food substances.", "PMID": 457813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12904", "title": "Transport of glial cell acid phosphatase by endoplasmic reticulum into damaged axons.", "content": "Earlier observations indicated that cutting the photoreceptor (R) cell perikarya in the retina of the flies Musca domestica and Calliphora erythrocephala resulted in an extremely rapid degeneration of the R-cell axons. The process manifested itself within minutes and secondary lysosomes appeared early on in the degenerating axons. In this study, biochemical assays of the classical lysosomal marker enzyme acid phosphatase (AcPase) showed a rapid increase in activity upon cutting the retina, reaching a peak around 5 min, followed by a drop and a subsequent slow steady rise in activity between about 4 and 24 h after the cut. Inhibitor studies indicated that at least 2 different acid phosphatases were involved, which showed identical activity changes. EM cytochemical studies with either beta-glycerophosphate or cytidine monophosphate as substrates indicated that the degeneration-dependent AcPase activity originated exclusively in one specific glial cell type in the distal lamina, the satellite glia. These cells are contiguous with R-cell axons in the pseudocartridges, directly proximal to the basement membrane of the retina. In normal uncut flies, reaction product indicative of AcPase activity was found in satellite glial cells in both rough ER (and perinuclear cisternae) and in smooth ER, the 2 types of cisternae being clearly in continuity. The electron-dense reaction product resulting from AcPase activity often showed continuity between the smooth ER of satellite glial cells and extracellular sites between the satellite glia and R-axons. This may result from the low levels of AcPase being synthesized in rough ER, and then exported to extra-cellular sites. Within minutes of cutting the retina the freqeuncy of satellite glia smooth ER staining for AcPase increases significantly. Increases in AcPase activity were subsequently found sequentially in extracellular sites, in axons in the distal lamina, and finally in the axon terminals. The time course for these increases in AcPase activity correlated well with the time course of the fine-structural pathological changes in the axons. A significant feature of the satellite glia cells is the massive packing of unidirectional microtubules (MTs), running perpendicular to the projections of the R-axons--in the same direction as AcPase transport. The MTs terminate at the glial membrane directly adjacent to the axon. The smooth ER cisternae interdigitate among the MTs and may be structurally connected to them by thin fibrils. Thick-section cytochemistry and stereology were used to reveal the 3-dimensional extent of the AcPase-reactive smooth ER system. Evidence is presented which suggests that this system represents GERL, a specialized region of smooth ER involved in lysosome formation, that in this glial cell appears to function also to export hydrolytic enzymes.", "contents": "Transport of glial cell acid phosphatase by endoplasmic reticulum into damaged axons. Earlier observations indicated that cutting the photoreceptor (R) cell perikarya in the retina of the flies Musca domestica and Calliphora erythrocephala resulted in an extremely rapid degeneration of the R-cell axons. The process manifested itself within minutes and secondary lysosomes appeared early on in the degenerating axons. In this study, biochemical assays of the classical lysosomal marker enzyme acid phosphatase (AcPase) showed a rapid increase in activity upon cutting the retina, reaching a peak around 5 min, followed by a drop and a subsequent slow steady rise in activity between about 4 and 24 h after the cut. Inhibitor studies indicated that at least 2 different acid phosphatases were involved, which showed identical activity changes. EM cytochemical studies with either beta-glycerophosphate or cytidine monophosphate as substrates indicated that the degeneration-dependent AcPase activity originated exclusively in one specific glial cell type in the distal lamina, the satellite glia. These cells are contiguous with R-cell axons in the pseudocartridges, directly proximal to the basement membrane of the retina. In normal uncut flies, reaction product indicative of AcPase activity was found in satellite glial cells in both rough ER (and perinuclear cisternae) and in smooth ER, the 2 types of cisternae being clearly in continuity. The electron-dense reaction product resulting from AcPase activity often showed continuity between the smooth ER of satellite glial cells and extracellular sites between the satellite glia and R-axons. This may result from the low levels of AcPase being synthesized in rough ER, and then exported to extra-cellular sites. Within minutes of cutting the retina the freqeuncy of satellite glia smooth ER staining for AcPase increases significantly. Increases in AcPase activity were subsequently found sequentially in extracellular sites, in axons in the distal lamina, and finally in the axon terminals. The time course for these increases in AcPase activity correlated well with the time course of the fine-structural pathological changes in the axons. A significant feature of the satellite glia cells is the massive packing of unidirectional microtubules (MTs), running perpendicular to the projections of the R-axons--in the same direction as AcPase transport. The MTs terminate at the glial membrane directly adjacent to the axon. The smooth ER cisternae interdigitate among the MTs and may be structurally connected to them by thin fibrils. Thick-section cytochemistry and stereology were used to reveal the 3-dimensional extent of the AcPase-reactive smooth ER system. Evidence is presented which suggests that this system represents GERL, a specialized region of smooth ER involved in lysosome formation, that in this glial cell appears to function also to export hydrolytic enzymes.", "PMID": 457814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12905", "title": "Studies on the subcellular localization of human neutrophil alkaline phosphatase.", "content": "The intracellular localization of alkaline phosphatase has been determined in human neutrophils with analytical subcellular fractionation by density gradient centrifugation and EM cytochemistry. Centrifugation on sucrose gradients containing 1 mM DETA and 5 units/ml of heparin showed that alkaline phosphatase was associated with a membranous component distinct from plasma membrane, mitochondria, specific granules and azurophil granules. There was no resolution from the endoplasmic reticulum. Density gradient centrifugation on a sucrose-imidazole-heparin gradient showed a clear resolution of the alkaline phosphatase-containing membranes from the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum. Density gradient centrifugation of neutrophils that had been disrupted in the presenceof 0.12 mmol/l. digitonin clearly separated alkaline phosphatase-containing membranes from the endoplasmic reticulum. Part of the gamma-glutamyl transferase has a similar localization to that of alkaline phosphatase. EM cytochemistry of neutrophils, neutrophil homogenates and of the density gradient fractions identified alkaline phosphatase-containing granules as irregular-shaped, often tubular, structures. It is suggested that alkaline phosphatase and part of the gamma-glutamyl transferase activity are localized to a unique organelle in the human neutrophil.", "contents": "Studies on the subcellular localization of human neutrophil alkaline phosphatase. The intracellular localization of alkaline phosphatase has been determined in human neutrophils with analytical subcellular fractionation by density gradient centrifugation and EM cytochemistry. Centrifugation on sucrose gradients containing 1 mM DETA and 5 units/ml of heparin showed that alkaline phosphatase was associated with a membranous component distinct from plasma membrane, mitochondria, specific granules and azurophil granules. There was no resolution from the endoplasmic reticulum. Density gradient centrifugation on a sucrose-imidazole-heparin gradient showed a clear resolution of the alkaline phosphatase-containing membranes from the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum. Density gradient centrifugation of neutrophils that had been disrupted in the presenceof 0.12 mmol/l. digitonin clearly separated alkaline phosphatase-containing membranes from the endoplasmic reticulum. Part of the gamma-glutamyl transferase has a similar localization to that of alkaline phosphatase. EM cytochemistry of neutrophils, neutrophil homogenates and of the density gradient fractions identified alkaline phosphatase-containing granules as irregular-shaped, often tubular, structures. It is suggested that alkaline phosphatase and part of the gamma-glutamyl transferase activity are localized to a unique organelle in the human neutrophil.", "PMID": 457815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12906", "title": "Quantitative immunoelectron-microscopic analyses of the distribution of cytochrome P-450 molecules on rat liver microsomes.", "content": "Specific antibodies to phenobarbital-induced cytochrome P-450 were prepared by affinity chromatography and coupled to ferritin with glutaraldehyde. The ferritin antibody conjugates with molecular ratio of approximately one were isolated by gel filtration and were used for immunochemical and immunoelectron-microscopic analyses of the distribution of cytochrome P-450 on microsomes from untreated, phenobarbital- and methylcholanthrene-treated rats. Binding assay showed that at the saturation level of the antibodies, microsomes from untreated, phenobarbital- and methylcholanthrene-treated rats bind 0.25, 0.41 and 0.14 mol of the antibody per mol of cytochrome P-450, respectively. From these data, the maximum number of the ferritin particles which can bind with microsomes was calculated. This number was in good agreement with the average number of ferritin particles bound per microsome which was determined by electron-microscopic observations of the microsomes incubated with the antibody conjugates at saturation level. Electron-micriscopic observations also indicated that smooth microsomes can bind more conjugates than rough microsomes and this finding was consistent with the biochemical data that, on the protein basis, smooth microsomes comtain more cytochrome P-450 than rough microsomes, even after correction for ribosomal proteins. The number of ferritin particles bound per smooth microsome was proportional to the diameter and non-random distribution of the ferritin particles on the microsomal vesicles, which was deduced simply by inspection in the previous paper from this laboratory, was confirmed by statistical analyses of electron micrographs of the labelled microsomes.", "contents": "Quantitative immunoelectron-microscopic analyses of the distribution of cytochrome P-450 molecules on rat liver microsomes. Specific antibodies to phenobarbital-induced cytochrome P-450 were prepared by affinity chromatography and coupled to ferritin with glutaraldehyde. The ferritin antibody conjugates with molecular ratio of approximately one were isolated by gel filtration and were used for immunochemical and immunoelectron-microscopic analyses of the distribution of cytochrome P-450 on microsomes from untreated, phenobarbital- and methylcholanthrene-treated rats. Binding assay showed that at the saturation level of the antibodies, microsomes from untreated, phenobarbital- and methylcholanthrene-treated rats bind 0.25, 0.41 and 0.14 mol of the antibody per mol of cytochrome P-450, respectively. From these data, the maximum number of the ferritin particles which can bind with microsomes was calculated. This number was in good agreement with the average number of ferritin particles bound per microsome which was determined by electron-microscopic observations of the microsomes incubated with the antibody conjugates at saturation level. Electron-micriscopic observations also indicated that smooth microsomes can bind more conjugates than rough microsomes and this finding was consistent with the biochemical data that, on the protein basis, smooth microsomes comtain more cytochrome P-450 than rough microsomes, even after correction for ribosomal proteins. The number of ferritin particles bound per smooth microsome was proportional to the diameter and non-random distribution of the ferritin particles on the microsomal vesicles, which was deduced simply by inspection in the previous paper from this laboratory, was confirmed by statistical analyses of electron micrographs of the labelled microsomes.", "PMID": 457816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12907", "title": "Studies on scale morphogenesis in the Golgi apparatus of Pyramimonas tetrarhynchus (Prasinophyceae).", "content": "Ultrastructural investigations of scale formation in the cisternae of the Golgi apparatus have been carried out on the prasinophycean flagellate Pyramimonas tetrarhynchus, whose cell surfaces are covered with 6 different scale types, 3 on the flagella and 3 on the cell body. Our results suggest that at least 4 and probably all 6 scale types can be formed together within the same cisterna and that there is some degree of intracisternal differentiation, since the formation of 2 scale types (the small underlayer scales on cell body and flagella) is restricted to the cisternal peripheries, whereas the remaining scale types are formed in the more central portions. Detailed studies of morphogenesis of the larger body scales reveal the earliest identifiable stages as 8-armed figures, with 8 thin arms in the intermediate body scales (IBS), and 4 thick and 4 thin arms in the outer body scales (OBS). From these incipients structures that bear little resemblance to the finished products, the complex, 3-dimensional mature body scales are elaborated in each of the cell's 4 distyosomes, and maintain throughout their different developmental sequences a close relationship to the inner surfaces of the cisternal membranes, as well as a particular orientation within the dictyosomes. Preliminary calculations of total numbers of scales that cover cell and flagellar surfaces are included. The small, underlayer scales, which on the flagella are shown to be arranged in 24 rows, number about 350000; larger scales of more complex construction number about 20 000.", "contents": "Studies on scale morphogenesis in the Golgi apparatus of Pyramimonas tetrarhynchus (Prasinophyceae). Ultrastructural investigations of scale formation in the cisternae of the Golgi apparatus have been carried out on the prasinophycean flagellate Pyramimonas tetrarhynchus, whose cell surfaces are covered with 6 different scale types, 3 on the flagella and 3 on the cell body. Our results suggest that at least 4 and probably all 6 scale types can be formed together within the same cisterna and that there is some degree of intracisternal differentiation, since the formation of 2 scale types (the small underlayer scales on cell body and flagella) is restricted to the cisternal peripheries, whereas the remaining scale types are formed in the more central portions. Detailed studies of morphogenesis of the larger body scales reveal the earliest identifiable stages as 8-armed figures, with 8 thin arms in the intermediate body scales (IBS), and 4 thick and 4 thin arms in the outer body scales (OBS). From these incipients structures that bear little resemblance to the finished products, the complex, 3-dimensional mature body scales are elaborated in each of the cell's 4 distyosomes, and maintain throughout their different developmental sequences a close relationship to the inner surfaces of the cisternal membranes, as well as a particular orientation within the dictyosomes. Preliminary calculations of total numbers of scales that cover cell and flagellar surfaces are included. The small, underlayer scales, which on the flagella are shown to be arranged in 24 rows, number about 350000; larger scales of more complex construction number about 20 000.", "PMID": 457817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12908", "title": "Capping of surface immunoglobulin on 'hairy cells' is independent of energy production.", "content": "Capping, independent of metabolic energy, of surface immunoglobulin (S-Ig) on 'Hairy cells' from patients with Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) is described. As controls leukaemic cells from a patient with a prolymphocytic leukaemia (PLL) and blood lymphocytes from healthy individuals were used. The specificity of the energy-independent capping of the HCL-cells as compared to the controls was tested by incubation of the cells at 4 degrees C in the presence of 0.1 M sodium azide with different FITC-labelled ligands. In order to find an explanation for this phenomenon, the influence of cytochalasin B, colchicine and the combination of both drugs on capping of S-Ig and concanavalin (Con-A)-receptors at 37 degrees C was investigated. Furthermore the effect of Con A on S-Ig capping and vice versa was studied. The results show that only S-Ig on HCL cells could form caps at 4 degrees C in the presence of sodium-azide. Cytochalasin B alone induced a strong inhibition of Con A capping on all 3 cell types, whereas S-Ig capping was unaffected. Colchicine alone had practically no effect. Anti-Ig inhibited subsequent patch and cap formation with Con A on both HCL cells and PLL cells, whereas Con A caps and patches were redistributed by anti-Ig on PLL cells, but not on HCL cells. Conversely, Con A could link S-Ig to other receptors, leading to inhibition of S-Ig capping at 4 degrees C on HCL cells and to co-capping of S-Ig at 37 degrees C on both cell types. In addition Con A induced redistribution of S-Ig caps. The combination of co-capping of S-Ig by Con A, followed by redistribution of the caps by FITC-anti-Ig simulated inhibition of S-Ig capping by Con A on PLL cells. The major conclusions are: in some cases inhibition of capping may actually be caused by redistribution of caps; the energy-independent capping cannot be explained by free diffusion of S-Ig in the membrane through lack of any connexion with receptor-mobility regulating systems. It is proposed that the energy requirement of capping is needed to inactivate a specific mechanism,w which restrains receptor mobility and which is non-operative in HCL cells.", "contents": "Capping of surface immunoglobulin on 'hairy cells' is independent of energy production. Capping, independent of metabolic energy, of surface immunoglobulin (S-Ig) on 'Hairy cells' from patients with Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) is described. As controls leukaemic cells from a patient with a prolymphocytic leukaemia (PLL) and blood lymphocytes from healthy individuals were used. The specificity of the energy-independent capping of the HCL-cells as compared to the controls was tested by incubation of the cells at 4 degrees C in the presence of 0.1 M sodium azide with different FITC-labelled ligands. In order to find an explanation for this phenomenon, the influence of cytochalasin B, colchicine and the combination of both drugs on capping of S-Ig and concanavalin (Con-A)-receptors at 37 degrees C was investigated. Furthermore the effect of Con A on S-Ig capping and vice versa was studied. The results show that only S-Ig on HCL cells could form caps at 4 degrees C in the presence of sodium-azide. Cytochalasin B alone induced a strong inhibition of Con A capping on all 3 cell types, whereas S-Ig capping was unaffected. Colchicine alone had practically no effect. Anti-Ig inhibited subsequent patch and cap formation with Con A on both HCL cells and PLL cells, whereas Con A caps and patches were redistributed by anti-Ig on PLL cells, but not on HCL cells. Conversely, Con A could link S-Ig to other receptors, leading to inhibition of S-Ig capping at 4 degrees C on HCL cells and to co-capping of S-Ig at 37 degrees C on both cell types. In addition Con A induced redistribution of S-Ig caps. The combination of co-capping of S-Ig by Con A, followed by redistribution of the caps by FITC-anti-Ig simulated inhibition of S-Ig capping by Con A on PLL cells. The major conclusions are: in some cases inhibition of capping may actually be caused by redistribution of caps; the energy-independent capping cannot be explained by free diffusion of S-Ig in the membrane through lack of any connexion with receptor-mobility regulating systems. It is proposed that the energy requirement of capping is needed to inactivate a specific mechanism,w which restrains receptor mobility and which is non-operative in HCL cells.", "PMID": 457818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12909", "title": "Studies of membrane fusion. III. Fusion of erythrocytes with polyethylene glycol.", "content": "Freeze-fracture electron microscopy has been used to investigate the mechanism of polyethylene glycol-induced cell fusion. Interaction of cells with the high concentrations of polyethylene glycol required for cell fusion results in cell agglutination with large planar areas of very close contact between adjacent cell membranes. An aggregation of intramembrane particles into large patches at the sites of cell-cell contact accompanies cell agglutination. Fusion occurs following the removal of most of the PEG when cells only remain in close contact at small (approximately 0.1 micrometer diameter) plaques of smooth membrane resulting in cells connected by one (or more) small cytoplasmic connexions. Expansion to form spherical fused cells occurs by a process of cell swelling.", "contents": "Studies of membrane fusion. III. Fusion of erythrocytes with polyethylene glycol. Freeze-fracture electron microscopy has been used to investigate the mechanism of polyethylene glycol-induced cell fusion. Interaction of cells with the high concentrations of polyethylene glycol required for cell fusion results in cell agglutination with large planar areas of very close contact between adjacent cell membranes. An aggregation of intramembrane particles into large patches at the sites of cell-cell contact accompanies cell agglutination. Fusion occurs following the removal of most of the PEG when cells only remain in close contact at small (approximately 0.1 micrometer diameter) plaques of smooth membrane resulting in cells connected by one (or more) small cytoplasmic connexions. Expansion to form spherical fused cells occurs by a process of cell swelling.", "PMID": 457819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12910", "title": "Marginal bands in camel erythrocytes.", "content": "The elliptical, anucleate erythrocytes of camels have been examined for the presence of marginal bands and their constituent microtubules. Lysis of erythrocytes under microtubule-stabilizing conditions readily revealed marginal bands in at least 3 % of the cells, as observed by phase-contrast and darkfield light microscopy. Microtubules plus a marginal band-encompassing network of material are visible in lysed cell whole mounts with transmission electron microscopy. Marginal band microtubules are also evident in electron micrographs of thin-sectioned camel erythrocytes identifiable as reticuloyctes on the basis of submaximal electron density (reduced haemoglobin iron content) and presence of polysomes. The results suggest that marginal bands may be involved in morphogenesis of camel erythrocytes but are not required for maintenance of their ellipticity after cells are fully differentiated.", "contents": "Marginal bands in camel erythrocytes. The elliptical, anucleate erythrocytes of camels have been examined for the presence of marginal bands and their constituent microtubules. Lysis of erythrocytes under microtubule-stabilizing conditions readily revealed marginal bands in at least 3 % of the cells, as observed by phase-contrast and darkfield light microscopy. Microtubules plus a marginal band-encompassing network of material are visible in lysed cell whole mounts with transmission electron microscopy. Marginal band microtubules are also evident in electron micrographs of thin-sectioned camel erythrocytes identifiable as reticuloyctes on the basis of submaximal electron density (reduced haemoglobin iron content) and presence of polysomes. The results suggest that marginal bands may be involved in morphogenesis of camel erythrocytes but are not required for maintenance of their ellipticity after cells are fully differentiated.", "PMID": 457820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12911", "title": "Parathyroid function and vitamin D metabolism during human growth hormone replacement.", "content": "Changes in calcium and phosphorus metabolism were studied in nine children with GH deficiency before and during human GH replacement therapy. Parathyroid function and serum concentrations of physiologically important vitamin D metabolites were examined to determine their relationship to changes in mineral metabolism. By comparison with pretreatment values, the GH-treated children showed significant increases in growth rate and renal tubular phosphate reabsorption and a significant decrease in urinary calcium excretion after a standardized oral load. There was no significant change in serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, or 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D or in nephrogenous cAMP excretion. Although GH has been proposed as a regulator of vitamin D metabolism, the present study demonstrates that the anabolic changes in calcium and phosphorus metabolism accompanying GH therapy are not mediated via changes in parathyroid hormone or vitamin D status.", "contents": "Parathyroid function and vitamin D metabolism during human growth hormone replacement. Changes in calcium and phosphorus metabolism were studied in nine children with GH deficiency before and during human GH replacement therapy. Parathyroid function and serum concentrations of physiologically important vitamin D metabolites were examined to determine their relationship to changes in mineral metabolism. By comparison with pretreatment values, the GH-treated children showed significant increases in growth rate and renal tubular phosphate reabsorption and a significant decrease in urinary calcium excretion after a standardized oral load. There was no significant change in serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, or 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D or in nephrogenous cAMP excretion. Although GH has been proposed as a regulator of vitamin D metabolism, the present study demonstrates that the anabolic changes in calcium and phosphorus metabolism accompanying GH therapy are not mediated via changes in parathyroid hormone or vitamin D status.", "PMID": 457839} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12912", "title": "Twenty-four-hour secretory patterns of growth hormone, prolactin, and cortisol in narcolepsy.", "content": "Twenth-four-hour patterns of plasma GH, PRL, and cortisol concentrations concomitant with sleep stages were studied in four male patients with typical narcolepsy, aged 30--34 yr, and four normal subjects. All medications were withdrawn 2 weeks before the study. Blood was drawn every 20 min during a 24-h fasting period, except for the first sleep cycle of nocturnal sleep when samples were drawn at 5-min intevals. In all of the narcoleptics, a plasma GH peak associated with slow wave sleep at the nocturnal sleep onset was absent (n = 2) or markedly decreased (n = 2). The normal rise of PRL during sleep was present only in a narcoleptic, whereas a significant fall in plasma PRL concentrations occurred immediately after the sleep-onset rapid eye movement period and lasted 1--1.5 h in the remaining three patients. A sleep-onset rapid eye movement period occurred in all of the patients, and this abnormal phenomenon characteristic of narcolepsy was considered to be related to the suppression of GH release at the sleep onset and to the decrease of plasma PRL levels during the early part of sleep. In contrast, the normal circadian periodicity of cortisol secretion was evident in all of the narcoleptics.", "contents": "Twenty-four-hour secretory patterns of growth hormone, prolactin, and cortisol in narcolepsy. Twenth-four-hour patterns of plasma GH, PRL, and cortisol concentrations concomitant with sleep stages were studied in four male patients with typical narcolepsy, aged 30--34 yr, and four normal subjects. All medications were withdrawn 2 weeks before the study. Blood was drawn every 20 min during a 24-h fasting period, except for the first sleep cycle of nocturnal sleep when samples were drawn at 5-min intevals. In all of the narcoleptics, a plasma GH peak associated with slow wave sleep at the nocturnal sleep onset was absent (n = 2) or markedly decreased (n = 2). The normal rise of PRL during sleep was present only in a narcoleptic, whereas a significant fall in plasma PRL concentrations occurred immediately after the sleep-onset rapid eye movement period and lasted 1--1.5 h in the remaining three patients. A sleep-onset rapid eye movement period occurred in all of the patients, and this abnormal phenomenon characteristic of narcolepsy was considered to be related to the suppression of GH release at the sleep onset and to the decrease of plasma PRL levels during the early part of sleep. In contrast, the normal circadian periodicity of cortisol secretion was evident in all of the narcoleptics.", "PMID": 457840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12913", "title": "Calcitonin secretion in primary hyperparathyroidism.", "content": "Plasma calcitonin (CT) was studied by RIA in 55 patients with surgically proven primary hyperparathyroidism. Basal hormone measurements were performed in all patients and provocative tests of CT secretion were performed in 7. Biochemical measurements were also made before and after parathyroidectomy in 34 patients. Plasma CT was significantly increased above normal in the male but not the female group of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. A similar sex difference in plasma CT was also seen during provocative testing. In contrast to normal subjects, plasma CT was also significantly correlated to serum calcium concentration in the males but not the females. Hormone concentrations returned to normal after parathyroidectomy in the males and did not significantly change in the females. These studies demonstrate that some patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, especially males, may have an increase, perhaps compensatory, in plasma CT. As with normal females, females with primary hyperparathyroidism seem to have decreased CT reserve.", "contents": "Calcitonin secretion in primary hyperparathyroidism. Plasma calcitonin (CT) was studied by RIA in 55 patients with surgically proven primary hyperparathyroidism. Basal hormone measurements were performed in all patients and provocative tests of CT secretion were performed in 7. Biochemical measurements were also made before and after parathyroidectomy in 34 patients. Plasma CT was significantly increased above normal in the male but not the female group of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. A similar sex difference in plasma CT was also seen during provocative testing. In contrast to normal subjects, plasma CT was also significantly correlated to serum calcium concentration in the males but not the females. Hormone concentrations returned to normal after parathyroidectomy in the males and did not significantly change in the females. These studies demonstrate that some patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, especially males, may have an increase, perhaps compensatory, in plasma CT. As with normal females, females with primary hyperparathyroidism seem to have decreased CT reserve.", "PMID": 457842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12914", "title": "Changes in serum concentrations of 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine during prolonged moderate exercise.", "content": "The effect of moderate bicycle exercise (3.5 h) on peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism was studied under two conditions (with and without glucose infusion) in four normal males. Serum T3, rT3, total protein, plasma glucose, and FFA were determined. Exercise induced an increase in rT3 from 29 to 40 ng/dl (P less than 0.01), a decrease in T3 from 154 to 147 ng/dl (P less than 0.01), and an increase in T4 from 7.1 to 7.5 micrograms/dl (P less than 0.05). When glucose was infused during exercise, the changes in rT3 were blunted (P less than 0.01) and the changes in T3 and T4 were diminished. During exercise, rT3 correlated with FFA (r = 0.95) and plasma glucose (r = -0.87). When glucose was infused during exercise, these correlations decreased (r = 0.81 and -0.56, respectively). Since moderate, prolonged exercise induces a state of early or acute starvation it is concluded that the changes in peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism reported here are similar to those found in starvation. The temporal changes of rT3, FFA, and plasma glucose during exercise suggest a relationship between thyroid hormone metabolism and the uptake and utilization of FFA and glucose or the mixture of these body fuels.", "contents": "Changes in serum concentrations of 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine during prolonged moderate exercise. The effect of moderate bicycle exercise (3.5 h) on peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism was studied under two conditions (with and without glucose infusion) in four normal males. Serum T3, rT3, total protein, plasma glucose, and FFA were determined. Exercise induced an increase in rT3 from 29 to 40 ng/dl (P less than 0.01), a decrease in T3 from 154 to 147 ng/dl (P less than 0.01), and an increase in T4 from 7.1 to 7.5 micrograms/dl (P less than 0.05). When glucose was infused during exercise, the changes in rT3 were blunted (P less than 0.01) and the changes in T3 and T4 were diminished. During exercise, rT3 correlated with FFA (r = 0.95) and plasma glucose (r = -0.87). When glucose was infused during exercise, these correlations decreased (r = 0.81 and -0.56, respectively). Since moderate, prolonged exercise induces a state of early or acute starvation it is concluded that the changes in peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism reported here are similar to those found in starvation. The temporal changes of rT3, FFA, and plasma glucose during exercise suggest a relationship between thyroid hormone metabolism and the uptake and utilization of FFA and glucose or the mixture of these body fuels.", "PMID": 457843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12915", "title": "Insulin allergy: reaginic antibodies to insulin and proinsulin.", "content": "To investigate the involvement of proinsulin (one of the contaminant proteins of therapeutic insulin) in systemic insulin allergy, we studied seven diabetic patients who presented with generalized insulin allergy. Commercial and highly purified (single component) insulins produced almost identical responses on the intradermal tests. In all cases, [125I]bovine insulin and [125I]bovine proinsulin bound to the circulating reaginic immunoglobulins. The binding of [125A]proinsulin was blocked completely by unlabeled insulin and was uneffected by bovine C-peptide, indicating a cross-reaction of proinsulin with antinsulin reaginic immunoglobulins and the absence of proinsulin-specific reaginic antibodies. These observations suggest insulin, but not proinsulin, as the mediator of the immediate insulin allergic reaction.", "contents": "Insulin allergy: reaginic antibodies to insulin and proinsulin. To investigate the involvement of proinsulin (one of the contaminant proteins of therapeutic insulin) in systemic insulin allergy, we studied seven diabetic patients who presented with generalized insulin allergy. Commercial and highly purified (single component) insulins produced almost identical responses on the intradermal tests. In all cases, [125I]bovine insulin and [125I]bovine proinsulin bound to the circulating reaginic immunoglobulins. The binding of [125A]proinsulin was blocked completely by unlabeled insulin and was uneffected by bovine C-peptide, indicating a cross-reaction of proinsulin with antinsulin reaginic immunoglobulins and the absence of proinsulin-specific reaginic antibodies. These observations suggest insulin, but not proinsulin, as the mediator of the immediate insulin allergic reaction.", "PMID": 457844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12916", "title": "Gastric inhibitory polypeptide response to hyper- and hypoglycemia in insulin-dependent diabetics.", "content": "The response of gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) levels to oral glucose in 11 insulin-dependent diabetics was compared to that in 8 age- and sex-matched healthy controls to determine whether they would show the pattern of GIP hypersecretion reported by other workers in maturity-onset, insulin-independent diabetes. One gram of glucose per kg bw resulted in a higher level of glycemia and a significantly diminished GIP response in diabetics when compared to controls (6,018 +/- 1,337 vs. 11,343 +/- 2,353 pg/ml.180 min min, respectively). There was virtually no beta cell response in the diabetics, as measured by changes in the levels of free insulin and connecting peptide. A significant lowering of glucagon levels occurred in the controls, while an inconsistent response was seen in the diabetics. An insulin infusion test was administered to test the hypothesis that insulin suppresses GIP secretion. Although hyperinsulinism, hypoglycemia, and suppression of endogenous insulin secretion were produced in the controls, no suppression of baseline GIP was detected. Similarly, hyperinsulinism and hypoglycemia failed to suppress baseline GIP levels in the diabetics. These results do not support a direct role for insulin in suppressing GIP in normal or diabetic subjects.", "contents": "Gastric inhibitory polypeptide response to hyper- and hypoglycemia in insulin-dependent diabetics. The response of gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) levels to oral glucose in 11 insulin-dependent diabetics was compared to that in 8 age- and sex-matched healthy controls to determine whether they would show the pattern of GIP hypersecretion reported by other workers in maturity-onset, insulin-independent diabetes. One gram of glucose per kg bw resulted in a higher level of glycemia and a significantly diminished GIP response in diabetics when compared to controls (6,018 +/- 1,337 vs. 11,343 +/- 2,353 pg/ml.180 min min, respectively). There was virtually no beta cell response in the diabetics, as measured by changes in the levels of free insulin and connecting peptide. A significant lowering of glucagon levels occurred in the controls, while an inconsistent response was seen in the diabetics. An insulin infusion test was administered to test the hypothesis that insulin suppresses GIP secretion. Although hyperinsulinism, hypoglycemia, and suppression of endogenous insulin secretion were produced in the controls, no suppression of baseline GIP was detected. Similarly, hyperinsulinism and hypoglycemia failed to suppress baseline GIP levels in the diabetics. These results do not support a direct role for insulin in suppressing GIP in normal or diabetic subjects.", "PMID": 457845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12917", "title": "Estradiol formation from testosterone by continuously cultured human breast cancer cells.", "content": "Two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and one cell line derived from normal human breast (HBL-100) were examined for the presence of aromatase activity by determining the amounts of [3H]estradiol ([3H]E2) formed by cell cultures incubated with [3H]testosterone. Aromatase activity was demonstrable in both breast cancer cell lines, but estradiol synthesis was not observed in HBL-100 cultures. The [3H]E2 content of MCF-7 cultures rose as a function of incubation time and substrate concentration. Furthermore, [3H]E2 formation by this cell line was suppressed by several known inhibitors of human placental aromatase. These observations represent the first evidence that some lines of continuously cultured human breast cancer cells, like some human breast tumors, are capable of forming estrogen from an extracellular precursor steroid. Cultured breast cells may provide model systems for investigating the relative importance of intracellular estrogen formation in the regulation of human breast cancer cell growth.", "contents": "Estradiol formation from testosterone by continuously cultured human breast cancer cells. Two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and one cell line derived from normal human breast (HBL-100) were examined for the presence of aromatase activity by determining the amounts of [3H]estradiol ([3H]E2) formed by cell cultures incubated with [3H]testosterone. Aromatase activity was demonstrable in both breast cancer cell lines, but estradiol synthesis was not observed in HBL-100 cultures. The [3H]E2 content of MCF-7 cultures rose as a function of incubation time and substrate concentration. Furthermore, [3H]E2 formation by this cell line was suppressed by several known inhibitors of human placental aromatase. These observations represent the first evidence that some lines of continuously cultured human breast cancer cells, like some human breast tumors, are capable of forming estrogen from an extracellular precursor steroid. Cultured breast cells may provide model systems for investigating the relative importance of intracellular estrogen formation in the regulation of human breast cancer cell growth.", "PMID": 457846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12918", "title": "Longitudinal study of plasma testosterone in male pseudohermaphrodites during early infancy.", "content": "Plasma testosterone was longitudinally studied during the first months of life in 7 XY infants with male pseudohermaphroditism. In two, the physiological postnatal rise of plasma testosterone was absent or blunted. A combined adrenal and testicular enzymatic defect was demonstrated in these two boys. In 5, a normal postnatal testosterone rise demonstrated a normal Leydig cell function. The longitudinal study of the physiologic postnatal rise of testosterone may be useful to distinguish secretory defects from responsiveness abnormalities thus improving the choice of gender in male pseudohermaphrodites.", "contents": "Longitudinal study of plasma testosterone in male pseudohermaphrodites during early infancy. Plasma testosterone was longitudinally studied during the first months of life in 7 XY infants with male pseudohermaphroditism. In two, the physiological postnatal rise of plasma testosterone was absent or blunted. A combined adrenal and testicular enzymatic defect was demonstrated in these two boys. In 5, a normal postnatal testosterone rise demonstrated a normal Leydig cell function. The longitudinal study of the physiologic postnatal rise of testosterone may be useful to distinguish secretory defects from responsiveness abnormalities thus improving the choice of gender in male pseudohermaphrodites.", "PMID": 457849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12919", "title": "Modified coagglutination procedure for the serological grouping of streptococci.", "content": "Cowan I staphylococci coated with antisera to streptococcal groups A, B, C, D, F, and G were used as coagglutination reagents in a modified coagglutination procedure (MCAP). Streptococcal group antigens were extracted with a Streptomyces albus-lysozyme enzyme mixture for 30 min at 55 degrees C and centrifuged, and the supernatant was tested by slide coagglutination. Positive coagglutination reactions occurred within 30 s. The cell pellets from overnight broth cultures and colonies taken directly from sheep blood agar plates were tested and compared with the results of the Lancefield capillary precipitin method. Of the 102 strains of broth-grown cells tested, 100 were grouped by the MCAP and the Lancefield capillary precipitin method. The remaining two isolates were serologically identified only by the MCAP. Of the original 102 strains, 97 were tested by MCAP after extraction of five well-isolated colonies from a sheep blood agar plate. When this latter method was used, 95.9% of the strains were correctly identified. Nonspecific reactions were observed only while testing the MCAP with the direct plate assay. These cross-reactions were remedied promptly by either absorption or dilution of the antisera involved. The MCAP was found to be a rapid and reliable technique for the serological grouping of streptococci.", "contents": "Modified coagglutination procedure for the serological grouping of streptococci. Cowan I staphylococci coated with antisera to streptococcal groups A, B, C, D, F, and G were used as coagglutination reagents in a modified coagglutination procedure (MCAP). Streptococcal group antigens were extracted with a Streptomyces albus-lysozyme enzyme mixture for 30 min at 55 degrees C and centrifuged, and the supernatant was tested by slide coagglutination. Positive coagglutination reactions occurred within 30 s. The cell pellets from overnight broth cultures and colonies taken directly from sheep blood agar plates were tested and compared with the results of the Lancefield capillary precipitin method. Of the 102 strains of broth-grown cells tested, 100 were grouped by the MCAP and the Lancefield capillary precipitin method. The remaining two isolates were serologically identified only by the MCAP. Of the original 102 strains, 97 were tested by MCAP after extraction of five well-isolated colonies from a sheep blood agar plate. When this latter method was used, 95.9% of the strains were correctly identified. Nonspecific reactions were observed only while testing the MCAP with the direct plate assay. These cross-reactions were remedied promptly by either absorption or dilution of the antisera involved. The MCAP was found to be a rapid and reliable technique for the serological grouping of streptococci.", "PMID": 457850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12920", "title": "Susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus and group A, B, C, and G streptococci to free fatty acids.", "content": "The susceptibility of 242 strains of Staphylococcus aureus and 117 strains of streptococci of groups A, B, C, and G to decanoic, dodecanoic, octadeca-9,12-dienoic, and octadeca-9,12,15-trienoic acids was estimated by determination of minimal inhibitory concentrations. S. aureus strains appeared to be generally less susceptible to all four fatty acids than streptococcal strains of all groups. Dodecanoic acid was the most inhibitory fatty acid against both staphylococci and streptococci. Both saturated fatty acids used were more active than the unsaturated acids. Among the unsaturated acids, octadeca-9,12,15-trienoic acid appeared to be more inhibitory for Staphylococcus and Streptococcus strains than octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid. No differences in susceptibility to fatty acids among staphylococcal and streptococcal strains isolated from skin, throat, or other sites were found.", "contents": "Susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus and group A, B, C, and G streptococci to free fatty acids. The susceptibility of 242 strains of Staphylococcus aureus and 117 strains of streptococci of groups A, B, C, and G to decanoic, dodecanoic, octadeca-9,12-dienoic, and octadeca-9,12,15-trienoic acids was estimated by determination of minimal inhibitory concentrations. S. aureus strains appeared to be generally less susceptible to all four fatty acids than streptococcal strains of all groups. Dodecanoic acid was the most inhibitory fatty acid against both staphylococci and streptococci. Both saturated fatty acids used were more active than the unsaturated acids. Among the unsaturated acids, octadeca-9,12,15-trienoic acid appeared to be more inhibitory for Staphylococcus and Streptococcus strains than octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid. No differences in susceptibility to fatty acids among staphylococcal and streptococcal strains isolated from skin, throat, or other sites were found.", "PMID": 457851} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12921", "title": "Laboratory evaluation of amikacin susceptibility testing by the AutoBac I system.", "content": "A total of 319 clinical isolates were compared for amikacin susceptibility by AutoBac I and Bauer-Kirby disk diffusion methods. There was an overall agreement of 98.5% between AutoBac I and Bauer-Kirby. An additional 23 strains resistant to amikacin, obtained from Bristol Laboratories, registered a 65% overall agreement. The sensitivity readings differed between the two methods for 13 organisms: 11 were minor discrepancies, intermediate by one of the two methods, and 2 were very major discrepancies, resistant by disk diffusion and susceptible by AutoBac I.", "contents": "Laboratory evaluation of amikacin susceptibility testing by the AutoBac I system. A total of 319 clinical isolates were compared for amikacin susceptibility by AutoBac I and Bauer-Kirby disk diffusion methods. There was an overall agreement of 98.5% between AutoBac I and Bauer-Kirby. An additional 23 strains resistant to amikacin, obtained from Bristol Laboratories, registered a 65% overall agreement. The sensitivity readings differed between the two methods for 13 organisms: 11 were minor discrepancies, intermediate by one of the two methods, and 2 were very major discrepancies, resistant by disk diffusion and susceptible by AutoBac I.", "PMID": 457852} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12922", "title": "Immunochemical study of diverse surface antigens of a Staphylococcus aureus isolate from an osteomyelitis patient and their role in in vitro phagocytosis.", "content": "The cellular antigens of a strain of Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from a bone fragment from osteomyelitis, were analyzed immunochemically and by interaction with human phagocytic cells. When this strain was allowed to interact with human polymorphonuclear cells in the presence of antiserum, the strain was shown to have specific antiphagocytic antigens. An acidic polysaccharide consisting of galactose and glucuronic acid was isolated from the cell surface of the organism, and in vitro opsonization tests indicated that this acidic antigen impeded in vitro phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear cells. It was also observed that antibodies directed against the mucopeptide constituents of homologous and heterologous bacterial cell walls were effective in promoting the in vitro opsonization of the organism. In the presence of antimucopeptide serum and human polymorphonuclear cells, a variant strain was isolated from the wild type, and immunochemical analysis indicated that this strain consisted of galactose and immunodominant amino-galacturonic acid residues. In vitro phagocytosis studies employing this variant strain indicated that the homologous human convalescent serum contained higher levels of opsonins against the variant strain than the original isolate, the wild type. This observation is discussed.", "contents": "Immunochemical study of diverse surface antigens of a Staphylococcus aureus isolate from an osteomyelitis patient and their role in in vitro phagocytosis. The cellular antigens of a strain of Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from a bone fragment from osteomyelitis, were analyzed immunochemically and by interaction with human phagocytic cells. When this strain was allowed to interact with human polymorphonuclear cells in the presence of antiserum, the strain was shown to have specific antiphagocytic antigens. An acidic polysaccharide consisting of galactose and glucuronic acid was isolated from the cell surface of the organism, and in vitro opsonization tests indicated that this acidic antigen impeded in vitro phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear cells. It was also observed that antibodies directed against the mucopeptide constituents of homologous and heterologous bacterial cell walls were effective in promoting the in vitro opsonization of the organism. In the presence of antimucopeptide serum and human polymorphonuclear cells, a variant strain was isolated from the wild type, and immunochemical analysis indicated that this strain consisted of galactose and immunodominant amino-galacturonic acid residues. In vitro phagocytosis studies employing this variant strain indicated that the homologous human convalescent serum contained higher levels of opsonins against the variant strain than the original isolate, the wild type. This observation is discussed.", "PMID": 457853} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12923", "title": "Improved blood culture medium for radiometric detection of yeasts.", "content": "The influence of medium composition on the rate of CO2 production by yeasts in simulated blood cultures was determined in the Bactec radiometric system. A yeast nitrogen base broth containing [14C]glucose and Triton X-100 allowed the detection of positive cultures earlier than the regular Bactec blood culture media.", "contents": "Improved blood culture medium for radiometric detection of yeasts. The influence of medium composition on the rate of CO2 production by yeasts in simulated blood cultures was determined in the Bactec radiometric system. A yeast nitrogen base broth containing [14C]glucose and Triton X-100 allowed the detection of positive cultures earlier than the regular Bactec blood culture media.", "PMID": 457854} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12924", "title": "Isolation of Legionella pneumophila from a transtracheal aspirate.", "content": "Isolation of Legionella pneumophila from a transtracheal aspirate was achieved by using simple in vitro culture methods. Clinical microbiologists should routinely culture for this organism from appropriate body fluids obtained from normally sterile areas.", "contents": "Isolation of Legionella pneumophila from a transtracheal aspirate. Isolation of Legionella pneumophila from a transtracheal aspirate was achieved by using simple in vitro culture methods. Clinical microbiologists should routinely culture for this organism from appropriate body fluids obtained from normally sterile areas.", "PMID": 457855} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12925", "title": "Rhizopus rhizopodiformis: emerging etiological agent of mucormycosis.", "content": "Mucormycosis is caused principally by members of the genus Rhizopus, especially R arrhizus and R. oryzae. Infection attributable to R. rhizopodiformis has rarely been documented. Of 13 cases of mucormycosis diagnosed during a 4-year period (1974 to 1978) at The Mount Sinai Hospital, 6 cases, occurring within 9 months, were caused by R. rhizopodiformis. The six isolates were identified mainly by: growth at 50 degrees C; production of short, sometimes branched, sporangiophores arising from opposite rhizoids; elongated columellae; and small spherical-to-elliptical, smooth-to-finely striated sporangiospores. The possibility that this explosive occurrence of R. rhizopodiformis at our institution was because of nosocomial acquisition was strongly supported by the recovery of this same mycotic agent from adhesive bandages used in the cardiac intensive care unit, where a patient developed subcutaneous R. rhizopodiformis infection after cardiac surgery. The invasive potential of R. rhizopodiformis was manifested by the extensive subcutaneous and systemic infections in each of the six patients, three of whom developed antibody against this mucormycotic agent.", "contents": "Rhizopus rhizopodiformis: emerging etiological agent of mucormycosis. Mucormycosis is caused principally by members of the genus Rhizopus, especially R arrhizus and R. oryzae. Infection attributable to R. rhizopodiformis has rarely been documented. Of 13 cases of mucormycosis diagnosed during a 4-year period (1974 to 1978) at The Mount Sinai Hospital, 6 cases, occurring within 9 months, were caused by R. rhizopodiformis. The six isolates were identified mainly by: growth at 50 degrees C; production of short, sometimes branched, sporangiophores arising from opposite rhizoids; elongated columellae; and small spherical-to-elliptical, smooth-to-finely striated sporangiospores. The possibility that this explosive occurrence of R. rhizopodiformis at our institution was because of nosocomial acquisition was strongly supported by the recovery of this same mycotic agent from adhesive bandages used in the cardiac intensive care unit, where a patient developed subcutaneous R. rhizopodiformis infection after cardiac surgery. The invasive potential of R. rhizopodiformis was manifested by the extensive subcutaneous and systemic infections in each of the six patients, three of whom developed antibody against this mucormycotic agent.", "PMID": 457856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12926", "title": "Method for rapid separation of immunoglobulin M from immunoglobulin G antibodies by using reorienting gardients in vertical rotors.", "content": "The parameters for the use of reorienting gradients in vertical rotors for rapid separation of immunoglobulin M from immunoglobulin G on a preparative scale for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases are described.", "contents": "Method for rapid separation of immunoglobulin M from immunoglobulin G antibodies by using reorienting gardients in vertical rotors. The parameters for the use of reorienting gradients in vertical rotors for rapid separation of immunoglobulin M from immunoglobulin G on a preparative scale for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases are described.", "PMID": 457857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12927", "title": "Cholinergic stimulation of norepinephrine release in man. Evidence of a sympathetic postganglionic axonal lesion in diabetic adrenergic neuropathy.", "content": "Amplification of endogenous cholinergic activity-produced by the intravenous injection of edrophonium, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which does not enter the central nervous system, into normal subjects-resulted in significant and briefly sustained increments in the plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (153+/-15-234+/-29 pg/ml, P < 0.01) and epinephrine (16+/-3-34+/-5 pg/ml, P < 0.01) measured with a single-isotope derivative method. These increments were not attributable to reflex responses to hemodynamic changes and similar increments in plasma norepinephrine occurred in adrenalectomized (epinephrine deficient) patients. Thus, cholinergic activation results in direct stimulation of sympathetic postganglionic neurons, with augmented norepinephrine release, and of the adrenal medullae, with augmented epinephrine release, in man. Four diabetic patients with hypoadrenergic postural hypotension exhibited blunted sympathetic postganglionic neural responses, and normal adrenomedullary responses, to cholinergic stimulation (and to standing) indicative of the presence of a sympathetic postganglionic axonal lesion in diabetic adrenergic neuropathy. Nondiabetic patients with hypoadrenergic postural hypotension due to documented or probable central nervous system lesions exhibited normal responses to cholinergic stimulation produced in this fashion demonstrating the presence of intact sympathetic postganglionic neurons and adrenal medullae in these patients and providing further support for the conceptual soundness of this approach to the study of human adrenergic physiology and pathophysiology.", "contents": "Cholinergic stimulation of norepinephrine release in man. Evidence of a sympathetic postganglionic axonal lesion in diabetic adrenergic neuropathy. Amplification of endogenous cholinergic activity-produced by the intravenous injection of edrophonium, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which does not enter the central nervous system, into normal subjects-resulted in significant and briefly sustained increments in the plasma concentrations of norepinephrine (153+/-15-234+/-29 pg/ml, P < 0.01) and epinephrine (16+/-3-34+/-5 pg/ml, P < 0.01) measured with a single-isotope derivative method. These increments were not attributable to reflex responses to hemodynamic changes and similar increments in plasma norepinephrine occurred in adrenalectomized (epinephrine deficient) patients. Thus, cholinergic activation results in direct stimulation of sympathetic postganglionic neurons, with augmented norepinephrine release, and of the adrenal medullae, with augmented epinephrine release, in man. Four diabetic patients with hypoadrenergic postural hypotension exhibited blunted sympathetic postganglionic neural responses, and normal adrenomedullary responses, to cholinergic stimulation (and to standing) indicative of the presence of a sympathetic postganglionic axonal lesion in diabetic adrenergic neuropathy. Nondiabetic patients with hypoadrenergic postural hypotension due to documented or probable central nervous system lesions exhibited normal responses to cholinergic stimulation produced in this fashion demonstrating the presence of intact sympathetic postganglionic neurons and adrenal medullae in these patients and providing further support for the conceptual soundness of this approach to the study of human adrenergic physiology and pathophysiology.", "PMID": 457858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12928", "title": "Paradoxical effects of clofibrate on liver and muscle metabolism in rats. Induction of myotonia and alteration of fatty acid and glucose oxidation.", "content": "Chronic clofibrate intake, on occasion, results in a muscular syndrome in man. We have investigated the effects of chronic clofibrate administration in rats on the electrical activity of a skeletal muscle (gastrocnemius), its composition, and its oxidation of palmitate and glucose. These effects have been compared with those in the liver. Clofibrate administration altered electromyographic pattern of gastrocnemius muscle (characteristic of myotonia), decreased its protein content, and impaired its oxidation of palmitate and glucose. These effects were quite different in the liver, because clofibrate intake increased the liver protein content and oxidation of palmitate without affecting the oxidation of glucose by this tissue. Whereas chronic clofibrate administration markedly increased the concentration of carnitine as well as the activity of mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyl-transferase in the liver, it decreased the activity of this enzyme in the gastrocnemius muscle without a significant effect on carnitine concentration in this tissue. Greater in vivo fatty acid oxidation by clofibratefed than by control rats was evidenced (a) by greater rate of production of (14)CO(2) in the expired air after injection of a tracer dose of [(14)C]palmitate and (b) by greater plasma and tissue concentrations of ketone bodies. We conclude that (a) paradoxical effects of clofibrate on fatty acid oxidation by the liver and skeletal muscle are related to changes in the activity of carnitine acyltransferase, (b) an increase in hepatic fatty acid oxidation may contribute to hypolipidemic effect of clofibrate, and (c) impairment of fatty acid and glucose oxidation by the muscle may be a factor in the development of muscular syndrome in patients receiving clofibrate treatment.", "contents": "Paradoxical effects of clofibrate on liver and muscle metabolism in rats. Induction of myotonia and alteration of fatty acid and glucose oxidation. Chronic clofibrate intake, on occasion, results in a muscular syndrome in man. We have investigated the effects of chronic clofibrate administration in rats on the electrical activity of a skeletal muscle (gastrocnemius), its composition, and its oxidation of palmitate and glucose. These effects have been compared with those in the liver. Clofibrate administration altered electromyographic pattern of gastrocnemius muscle (characteristic of myotonia), decreased its protein content, and impaired its oxidation of palmitate and glucose. These effects were quite different in the liver, because clofibrate intake increased the liver protein content and oxidation of palmitate without affecting the oxidation of glucose by this tissue. Whereas chronic clofibrate administration markedly increased the concentration of carnitine as well as the activity of mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyl-transferase in the liver, it decreased the activity of this enzyme in the gastrocnemius muscle without a significant effect on carnitine concentration in this tissue. Greater in vivo fatty acid oxidation by clofibratefed than by control rats was evidenced (a) by greater rate of production of (14)CO(2) in the expired air after injection of a tracer dose of [(14)C]palmitate and (b) by greater plasma and tissue concentrations of ketone bodies. We conclude that (a) paradoxical effects of clofibrate on fatty acid oxidation by the liver and skeletal muscle are related to changes in the activity of carnitine acyltransferase, (b) an increase in hepatic fatty acid oxidation may contribute to hypolipidemic effect of clofibrate, and (c) impairment of fatty acid and glucose oxidation by the muscle may be a factor in the development of muscular syndrome in patients receiving clofibrate treatment.", "PMID": 457859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12929", "title": "Tyramine kinetics and metabolism in cirrhosis.", "content": "Hypertyraminemia is common in hepatic cirrhosis and correlates in severity with encephalopathy. The mechanism of cirrhotic hypertyraminemia has not been established. The alternative possibilities are increased production from tyrosine and impaired degradation by monoamine oxidase. This investigation determined the pharmacokinetics of tyramine after an intravenous bolus injections of [3H]-tyramine (180--200 muCi 12 Ci/mmol sp act) in 13 cirrhotics and 9 controls. In normals, [3H]tyramine levels initially declined rapidly (alpha-phase) followed by a slower decline (beta-phase) with an average t 1/2 of 20.8 min. Average normal metabolic clearance rate and production rate were 13.2 liters/min and 15.4 microgram/min, respectively. In cirrhotic patients, the plasma disappearance curve for [3H]tyramine was qualitatively similar to that of the control subjects with no apparent different in beta-t 1/2 (17.2 min). The hypertyraminemia of cirrhosis resulted primarily from overproduction of tyramine, as the production rate (32.0 microgram/min) in these patients was significantly greater (P less than 0.05) than in controls, whereas the metabolic clearance rate remained normal (average 12.2 liters/min). A difference in ratio of tyramine metabolic products was noted as well. Cirrhotics had a high ratio of plasma 4-hydroxyphenylethanol:4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (60:40 vs. 30:70) as compared with normals. Although the tyramine clearance rates are similar in normals and cirrhotics, different mechanisms may be responsible for catabolism.", "contents": "Tyramine kinetics and metabolism in cirrhosis. Hypertyraminemia is common in hepatic cirrhosis and correlates in severity with encephalopathy. The mechanism of cirrhotic hypertyraminemia has not been established. The alternative possibilities are increased production from tyrosine and impaired degradation by monoamine oxidase. This investigation determined the pharmacokinetics of tyramine after an intravenous bolus injections of [3H]-tyramine (180--200 muCi 12 Ci/mmol sp act) in 13 cirrhotics and 9 controls. In normals, [3H]tyramine levels initially declined rapidly (alpha-phase) followed by a slower decline (beta-phase) with an average t 1/2 of 20.8 min. Average normal metabolic clearance rate and production rate were 13.2 liters/min and 15.4 microgram/min, respectively. In cirrhotic patients, the plasma disappearance curve for [3H]tyramine was qualitatively similar to that of the control subjects with no apparent different in beta-t 1/2 (17.2 min). The hypertyraminemia of cirrhosis resulted primarily from overproduction of tyramine, as the production rate (32.0 microgram/min) in these patients was significantly greater (P less than 0.05) than in controls, whereas the metabolic clearance rate remained normal (average 12.2 liters/min). A difference in ratio of tyramine metabolic products was noted as well. Cirrhotics had a high ratio of plasma 4-hydroxyphenylethanol:4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (60:40 vs. 30:70) as compared with normals. Although the tyramine clearance rates are similar in normals and cirrhotics, different mechanisms may be responsible for catabolism.", "PMID": 457860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12930", "title": "Complement lysis of human erythrocytes. Differeing susceptibility of two types of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria cells to C5b-9.", "content": "Although enhanced sensitivity of erythrocytes to complement-mediated lysis is a hallmark of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), subpopulations of erythrocytes in such patients vary significantly in this respect. One PNH erythrocyte subpopulation (termed type III) comprises exquisitely sensitive cells, whereas type II PNH erythrocytes are intermediate in complement sensitivity between PNH type III and normal human erythrocytes. Differences in the action of the terminal complement components that would account for the differing lytic behavior of types II and III PNH erythrocytes have been proposed but not directly demonstrated. The present studies, making use of carefully selected cases with pure populations of type II or type III erythrocytes, confirm a prior observation that antibody-coated PNH erythrocytes of both types II and III display comparably supranormal C3 binding in whole human serum. However, when lysis was induced by the isolated C5b-9 membrane attack mechanism, bypassing the requirement for C3 binding, only type III PNH cells exhibited greater than normal lysis. This finding suggests that type III PNH erythrocytes have an additional membrane abnormality not present in type II cells. Thus, the differing lytic behavior of these two cell types in whole serum may reflect the additive effects on type III cells of both exaggerated C3 binding and enhanced sensitivity to C5b-9, whereas the more moderate lysis of type II PNH cells may be determined mainly or entirely by the earlier-acting mechanism producing augmented C3 binding. The failure of guinea pig C8 and C9, as opposed to human C8 and C9, to reveal the true lytic sensitivity of PNH-III E in our earlier study is illustrated, and its implications briefly discussed.", "contents": "Complement lysis of human erythrocytes. Differeing susceptibility of two types of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria cells to C5b-9. Although enhanced sensitivity of erythrocytes to complement-mediated lysis is a hallmark of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), subpopulations of erythrocytes in such patients vary significantly in this respect. One PNH erythrocyte subpopulation (termed type III) comprises exquisitely sensitive cells, whereas type II PNH erythrocytes are intermediate in complement sensitivity between PNH type III and normal human erythrocytes. Differences in the action of the terminal complement components that would account for the differing lytic behavior of types II and III PNH erythrocytes have been proposed but not directly demonstrated. The present studies, making use of carefully selected cases with pure populations of type II or type III erythrocytes, confirm a prior observation that antibody-coated PNH erythrocytes of both types II and III display comparably supranormal C3 binding in whole human serum. However, when lysis was induced by the isolated C5b-9 membrane attack mechanism, bypassing the requirement for C3 binding, only type III PNH cells exhibited greater than normal lysis. This finding suggests that type III PNH erythrocytes have an additional membrane abnormality not present in type II cells. Thus, the differing lytic behavior of these two cell types in whole serum may reflect the additive effects on type III cells of both exaggerated C3 binding and enhanced sensitivity to C5b-9, whereas the more moderate lysis of type II PNH cells may be determined mainly or entirely by the earlier-acting mechanism producing augmented C3 binding. The failure of guinea pig C8 and C9, as opposed to human C8 and C9, to reveal the true lytic sensitivity of PNH-III E in our earlier study is illustrated, and its implications briefly discussed.", "PMID": 457861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12931", "title": "Sensitivity of lymphocytes to prostaglandin E2 increases in subjects over age 70.", "content": "We examined the sensitivity of lymphocytes from different age groups to inhibition by prostaglandin E2. Phytohemagglutinin-stimulated cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 12 healthy subjects over the age of 70 were much more sensitive to inhibition by exogenously added prostaglandin E2 than were cells from 17 young controls (ID50 congruent to 10 nM for the subjects over 70 vs. greater than 3 micronM for the young controls). The more senstivie lymphocytes from a subject over 70 were to prostaglandin E2, the lower was his or her response to phytohemagglutinin (r = 0.75, P less than 0.01). The mean responses to phytohemagglutinin of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the subjects over 70 were significantly depressed compared to the young controls. Addition of indomethacin, a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, to the cultures resulted in an increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation of 140 +/- 16% in the cells of the subjects over 70 vs. a 36 +/- 3% increase in the young controls (mean +/- SEM, P less than 0.001). The mean phytohemagglutinin response of the subjects over 70 was 40% of the control response without indomethacin. With addition of indomethacin the response of subjects over 70 rose to 72% of control. Thus, increased sinsitivity to prostaglandin E2 appears to be responsible in part for the depressed mitogen response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy subjects over 70.", "contents": "Sensitivity of lymphocytes to prostaglandin E2 increases in subjects over age 70. We examined the sensitivity of lymphocytes from different age groups to inhibition by prostaglandin E2. Phytohemagglutinin-stimulated cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 12 healthy subjects over the age of 70 were much more sensitive to inhibition by exogenously added prostaglandin E2 than were cells from 17 young controls (ID50 congruent to 10 nM for the subjects over 70 vs. greater than 3 micronM for the young controls). The more senstivie lymphocytes from a subject over 70 were to prostaglandin E2, the lower was his or her response to phytohemagglutinin (r = 0.75, P less than 0.01). The mean responses to phytohemagglutinin of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the subjects over 70 were significantly depressed compared to the young controls. Addition of indomethacin, a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, to the cultures resulted in an increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation of 140 +/- 16% in the cells of the subjects over 70 vs. a 36 +/- 3% increase in the young controls (mean +/- SEM, P less than 0.001). The mean phytohemagglutinin response of the subjects over 70 was 40% of the control response without indomethacin. With addition of indomethacin the response of subjects over 70 rose to 72% of control. Thus, increased sinsitivity to prostaglandin E2 appears to be responsible in part for the depressed mitogen response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy subjects over 70.", "PMID": 457862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12932", "title": "Effects of carnitine in ischemic and fatty acid supplemented swine hearts.", "content": "FREE FATTY ACIDS (FFA) IN EXCESS FFA: albumin molar ratios have been determined to additionally compromise mechanical performance in ischemic hearts. Carnitine, an intracellular carrier of FFA and an agent which is lost to the heart during ischemia, has been postulated to in part restore function with its replacement. To test whether its benefits are also operative in a setting of excess FFA, these studies were performed. In the main protocol, four groups of perfused swine hearts (n = 45) were compared during 50 min of control flow (179.7 ml/min) and 40 min of global ischemia (106.1 ml/min). Initial base-line serum FFA:albumin molar ratios and carnitine levels in all groups were 1.3:1 and 8.5 nmol/ml, respectively. In two of these groups FFA:albumin ratios were increased to 5.9:1 with constant infusions of Intralipid. In two alternate groups (one with and one without extra FFA supplements) dl-carnitine was supplied, sufficient to increase serum levels nearly 200-fold. Ischemia per se in 14 hearts significantly decreased several parameters of global and regional mechanical function including left ventricular (LV) and mean aortic pressures, LV isovolumetric pressure development (max dp/dt), LV epicardial motion, and LV work, together with concomitant decreases in myocardial oxygen consumption. Elevated FFA in 12 hearts rendered similarly ischemic further decreased mechanical function (LV pressure: -20.8%, P < 0.05; mean aortic pressure -26.9%, P < 0.05; LV max dp/dt: -39%, P < 0.05; regional LV shortening: -51.1%, P < 0.05; and LV work: -50.3%, P < 0.05) as compared with nonsupplemented hearts. dl-Carnitine treatments in nine hearts, not supplemented with extra FFA were without apparent effect in improving overall hemodynamic performance. However, dl-carnitine in 10 high FFA-ischemic hearts effected several improvements as compared with the untreated group: LV pressure was increased 25.6%, P < 0.025; mean aortic pressure: +43.5%, P < 0.05; LV max dp/dt: +41.5%, P < 0.05; regional LV shortening: +241.3%, P < 0.001; and LV work: +76.2%, P < 0.05 at comparable levels of myocardial oxygen consumption. In a separate protocol, the effects of stereospecificity were also studied by comparing l- with dl-carnitine in globally perfused, palmitate-supplemented hearts (five hearts in each treatment group). At similar conditions of flow and serum FFA, changes in mechanical function were comparable, except for a tendency to perform greater LV work at reduced flows in the l-carnitine-treated hearts. Thus, it was demonstrated that carnitine in ischemic hearts is capable of preserving mechanical function under conditions of excess FFA, presumably by modifying the toxic effects of FFA intermediates. The major therapeutic actions appeared to derive from the l-isomer of carnitine.", "contents": "Effects of carnitine in ischemic and fatty acid supplemented swine hearts. FREE FATTY ACIDS (FFA) IN EXCESS FFA: albumin molar ratios have been determined to additionally compromise mechanical performance in ischemic hearts. Carnitine, an intracellular carrier of FFA and an agent which is lost to the heart during ischemia, has been postulated to in part restore function with its replacement. To test whether its benefits are also operative in a setting of excess FFA, these studies were performed. In the main protocol, four groups of perfused swine hearts (n = 45) were compared during 50 min of control flow (179.7 ml/min) and 40 min of global ischemia (106.1 ml/min). Initial base-line serum FFA:albumin molar ratios and carnitine levels in all groups were 1.3:1 and 8.5 nmol/ml, respectively. In two of these groups FFA:albumin ratios were increased to 5.9:1 with constant infusions of Intralipid. In two alternate groups (one with and one without extra FFA supplements) dl-carnitine was supplied, sufficient to increase serum levels nearly 200-fold. Ischemia per se in 14 hearts significantly decreased several parameters of global and regional mechanical function including left ventricular (LV) and mean aortic pressures, LV isovolumetric pressure development (max dp/dt), LV epicardial motion, and LV work, together with concomitant decreases in myocardial oxygen consumption. Elevated FFA in 12 hearts rendered similarly ischemic further decreased mechanical function (LV pressure: -20.8%, P < 0.05; mean aortic pressure -26.9%, P < 0.05; LV max dp/dt: -39%, P < 0.05; regional LV shortening: -51.1%, P < 0.05; and LV work: -50.3%, P < 0.05) as compared with nonsupplemented hearts. dl-Carnitine treatments in nine hearts, not supplemented with extra FFA were without apparent effect in improving overall hemodynamic performance. However, dl-carnitine in 10 high FFA-ischemic hearts effected several improvements as compared with the untreated group: LV pressure was increased 25.6%, P < 0.025; mean aortic pressure: +43.5%, P < 0.05; LV max dp/dt: +41.5%, P < 0.05; regional LV shortening: +241.3%, P < 0.001; and LV work: +76.2%, P < 0.05 at comparable levels of myocardial oxygen consumption. In a separate protocol, the effects of stereospecificity were also studied by comparing l- with dl-carnitine in globally perfused, palmitate-supplemented hearts (five hearts in each treatment group). At similar conditions of flow and serum FFA, changes in mechanical function were comparable, except for a tendency to perform greater LV work at reduced flows in the l-carnitine-treated hearts. Thus, it was demonstrated that carnitine in ischemic hearts is capable of preserving mechanical function under conditions of excess FFA, presumably by modifying the toxic effects of FFA intermediates. The major therapeutic actions appeared to derive from the l-isomer of carnitine.", "PMID": 457863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12933", "title": "Effect of prostaglandin E2 on chloride transport across the rabbit thick ascending limb of Henle. Selective inhibitions of the medullary portion.", "content": "Prostaglandins are present in large quantities in the kidney and have been shown to directly affect transepithelial transport. The present studies were designed to examine whether prostaglandin E2 could affect chloride transport across the thick ascending limb of Henle. Isolated segments of the cortical and medullary thick ascending limb of Henle were perfused in vitro and the transepithelial voltage and net chloride flux were measured. Exposure of the medullary thick ascending limb to 2 microM prostaglandin E2 resulted in a fall in net chloride transport of 40--50% with a concomitant fall in voltage. In contrast, net chloride transport in the cortical thick ascending limb was not affected by prostaglandin E2. Under similar conditions, the medullary thick ascending limb possessed twice the capacity to transport chloride than did the cortical thick ascending limb. The results suggest that endogenous renal prostaglandins may play a modulating role in the addition of salt to the renal medullary interstitium and may, under some circumstances, by chloruretic.", "contents": "Effect of prostaglandin E2 on chloride transport across the rabbit thick ascending limb of Henle. Selective inhibitions of the medullary portion. Prostaglandins are present in large quantities in the kidney and have been shown to directly affect transepithelial transport. The present studies were designed to examine whether prostaglandin E2 could affect chloride transport across the thick ascending limb of Henle. Isolated segments of the cortical and medullary thick ascending limb of Henle were perfused in vitro and the transepithelial voltage and net chloride flux were measured. Exposure of the medullary thick ascending limb to 2 microM prostaglandin E2 resulted in a fall in net chloride transport of 40--50% with a concomitant fall in voltage. In contrast, net chloride transport in the cortical thick ascending limb was not affected by prostaglandin E2. Under similar conditions, the medullary thick ascending limb possessed twice the capacity to transport chloride than did the cortical thick ascending limb. The results suggest that endogenous renal prostaglandins may play a modulating role in the addition of salt to the renal medullary interstitium and may, under some circumstances, by chloruretic.", "PMID": 457864} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12934", "title": "Glomerular hemodynamics in rats with chronic sodium depletion. Effect of saralasin.", "content": "In chronic sodium depletion the glomerular filtration rate may be reduced, and alterations in proximal tubular function may contribute to the maintenance of antinatriuresis. Measurements were made by micropuncture technique in superficial nephrons of the Munich-Wistar rat of (a) the determinants of glomerular filtration rate, (b) peritubular capillary hydrostatic and oncotic pressure, and (c) proximal tubular fractional and absolute reabsorption in both a control group (group 1, n = 12) and a group of chronically sodium-depleted rats (group 2, n = 12). Single nephron filtration rate (sngfr) was 37.2+/-1.2 in group 1 and 31.6+/-1.0 nl/min/g kidney wt (P < 0.05) in group 2. Of the factors potentially responsible for the observed reduction in sngfr, there was no change in systemic oncotic pressure or the transglomerular hydrostatic pressure gradient. Sngfr was lower in group 2 because of both a reduced single nephron plasma flow (rpf) (128+/-6 vs. 112+/-5 nl/min per g kidney wt, P < 0.05) and additionally to a decrease in the glomerular permeability coefficient, L(p)A, from a minimum value of 0.105+/-0.012 in group 1 to 0.054+/-0.01 nl/s per g kidney wt per mm Hg (P < 0.01) after chronic sodium depletion. There was no difference in fractional proximal tubular reabsorption between group 1 and group 2. Absolute proximal reabsorption (APR) was reduced from 20.8+/-1.3 in group 1 to 16.3+/-0.9 nl/min per g kidney wt in group 2. The role of angiotensin II (AII) in maintaining glomerular and proximal tubular adaptations to chronic sodium depletion was assessed in subsets of groups 1 and 2 by the infusion of the AII antagonist Saralasin at a rate of 1 mug/kg per min. In group 1 rats, Saralasin had no effect on sngfr, rpf, or L(p)A, because animals remained at filtration pressure equilibrium. In group 2 rats, AII blockade was associated with an increase in sngfr from 31.6+/-1.0 to 37.1+/-1.7 nl/min per g kidney wt (P < 0.01). Rpf increased during Saralasin infusion solely as a result of a decrease in afferent arteriolar resistance from 21.7+/-2.3 to 15.2+/-2.3 10(9) dyn-s-cm(-5) (P < 0.01). Saralasin infusion did not affect the reduced L(p)A in group 2, as L(p)A remained 0.056+/-0.02 nl/s per g kidney wt per mm Hg and rats remained disequilibrated. In spite of the increase in sngfr in group 2, AII antagonism further decreased APR to 13.1+/-1.5 (P < 0.01). Distal delivery therefore, increased from a control value of 15.3+/-1.3 to 24.3+/-1.5 nl/min per g kidney wt (P < 0.01). In conclusion, both a decrease in L(p)A and a reduction in rpf were major factors mediating the decrease in glomerular filtration rate observed in chronic sodium depletion. Saralasin infusion revealed a significant effect of AII on rpf and afferent arteriolar resistance in chronic sodium depletion, but no effect of AII on either efferent arteriolar resistance or the decrease in L(p)A could be demonstrated. Saralasin had no effect in rats that were not chronically sodium depleted. In group 2 rats AII antagonism reduced APR even though sngfr increased, suggesting an influence of AII on proximal reabsorption. The marked changes observed during Saralasin infusion in the chronically sodium-depleted rat reveal important modifying effects of endogenously generated AII on both the glomerulus and proximal tubule.", "contents": "Glomerular hemodynamics in rats with chronic sodium depletion. Effect of saralasin. In chronic sodium depletion the glomerular filtration rate may be reduced, and alterations in proximal tubular function may contribute to the maintenance of antinatriuresis. Measurements were made by micropuncture technique in superficial nephrons of the Munich-Wistar rat of (a) the determinants of glomerular filtration rate, (b) peritubular capillary hydrostatic and oncotic pressure, and (c) proximal tubular fractional and absolute reabsorption in both a control group (group 1, n = 12) and a group of chronically sodium-depleted rats (group 2, n = 12). Single nephron filtration rate (sngfr) was 37.2+/-1.2 in group 1 and 31.6+/-1.0 nl/min/g kidney wt (P < 0.05) in group 2. Of the factors potentially responsible for the observed reduction in sngfr, there was no change in systemic oncotic pressure or the transglomerular hydrostatic pressure gradient. Sngfr was lower in group 2 because of both a reduced single nephron plasma flow (rpf) (128+/-6 vs. 112+/-5 nl/min per g kidney wt, P < 0.05) and additionally to a decrease in the glomerular permeability coefficient, L(p)A, from a minimum value of 0.105+/-0.012 in group 1 to 0.054+/-0.01 nl/s per g kidney wt per mm Hg (P < 0.01) after chronic sodium depletion. There was no difference in fractional proximal tubular reabsorption between group 1 and group 2. Absolute proximal reabsorption (APR) was reduced from 20.8+/-1.3 in group 1 to 16.3+/-0.9 nl/min per g kidney wt in group 2. The role of angiotensin II (AII) in maintaining glomerular and proximal tubular adaptations to chronic sodium depletion was assessed in subsets of groups 1 and 2 by the infusion of the AII antagonist Saralasin at a rate of 1 mug/kg per min. In group 1 rats, Saralasin had no effect on sngfr, rpf, or L(p)A, because animals remained at filtration pressure equilibrium. In group 2 rats, AII blockade was associated with an increase in sngfr from 31.6+/-1.0 to 37.1+/-1.7 nl/min per g kidney wt (P < 0.01). Rpf increased during Saralasin infusion solely as a result of a decrease in afferent arteriolar resistance from 21.7+/-2.3 to 15.2+/-2.3 10(9) dyn-s-cm(-5) (P < 0.01). Saralasin infusion did not affect the reduced L(p)A in group 2, as L(p)A remained 0.056+/-0.02 nl/s per g kidney wt per mm Hg and rats remained disequilibrated. In spite of the increase in sngfr in group 2, AII antagonism further decreased APR to 13.1+/-1.5 (P < 0.01). Distal delivery therefore, increased from a control value of 15.3+/-1.3 to 24.3+/-1.5 nl/min per g kidney wt (P < 0.01). In conclusion, both a decrease in L(p)A and a reduction in rpf were major factors mediating the decrease in glomerular filtration rate observed in chronic sodium depletion. Saralasin infusion revealed a significant effect of AII on rpf and afferent arteriolar resistance in chronic sodium depletion, but no effect of AII on either efferent arteriolar resistance or the decrease in L(p)A could be demonstrated. Saralasin had no effect in rats that were not chronically sodium depleted. In group 2 rats AII antagonism reduced APR even though sngfr increased, suggesting an influence of AII on proximal reabsorption. The marked changes observed during Saralasin infusion in the chronically sodium-depleted rat reveal important modifying effects of endogenously generated AII on both the glomerulus and proximal tubule.", "PMID": 457865} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12935", "title": "Effects of reduced renal mass and dietary protein intake on amino acid release and glucose uptake by rat muscle in vitro.", "content": "Epitrochlearis muscles obtained from normal male Holtzman rats used as controls (C) and rats with reduced renal mass (Nx) fed isocaloric diets of varying protein content were incubated in Krebs-Ringer buffer containing 5 mM glucose for 1 or 3 h with or without insulin. Alanine (ALA) release rates from muscles of Nx rats were increased 40% above C values after 1 h of incubation regardless of protein intake. Addition of insulin decreased the ALA release from muscles of Nx rats to C values in animals fed 10 and 20% casein and chow but did not in rats fed 40% casein. After 3 h of incubation, all ALA release rates decreased by congruent with40%. The ALA release from muscles of Nx rats fed 10% casein was comparable to C values and decreased further with the addition of insulin. On the other hand, ALA release from muscles of Nx rats fed 20 and 40% casein as well as chow remained significantly elevated above C values, but responded to the addition of insulin with a reduction in release rates to C values, except from the muscles of Nx animals fed 40% casein. Tyrosine (TYR) and phenylalanine (PHE) release rates also were increased in muscles from Nx rats compared with C after 1 h of incubation. Release rates were highest in the Nx group fed 10% casein and decreased with increasing protein intake. Addition of insulin decreased the release rates of Nx rats to C values in each group. After 3 h of incubation, release rates of TYR and PHE in muscles from Nx rats remained significantly above C values for all groups, but responded to the addition of insulin with a decrease to C values. Glutamine and glutamate release were not significantly affected by reduction in renal mass.Base-line glucose uptake by all groups of muscles from Nx rats was significantly greater than corresponding C values, but maximal insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was comparable in all groups. Tissue pool sizes for glycogen, ATP, phosphocreatine, ALA, glutamate, and glutamine were unaffected by reduction in renal mass. The results indicate that Nx is associated with accelerated ALA, TYR, and PHE release from muscle. ALA release rose with increasing protein intake and decreased to values observed from C muscles after addition of insulin except in Nx animals fed 40% casein. TYR and PHE release decreased with increasing protein intake and also decreased to C values with the addition of insulin. The data also suggest that ALA release is not dependent upon glucose uptake in muscles from either C or Nx rats.", "contents": "Effects of reduced renal mass and dietary protein intake on amino acid release and glucose uptake by rat muscle in vitro. Epitrochlearis muscles obtained from normal male Holtzman rats used as controls (C) and rats with reduced renal mass (Nx) fed isocaloric diets of varying protein content were incubated in Krebs-Ringer buffer containing 5 mM glucose for 1 or 3 h with or without insulin. Alanine (ALA) release rates from muscles of Nx rats were increased 40% above C values after 1 h of incubation regardless of protein intake. Addition of insulin decreased the ALA release from muscles of Nx rats to C values in animals fed 10 and 20% casein and chow but did not in rats fed 40% casein. After 3 h of incubation, all ALA release rates decreased by congruent with40%. The ALA release from muscles of Nx rats fed 10% casein was comparable to C values and decreased further with the addition of insulin. On the other hand, ALA release from muscles of Nx rats fed 20 and 40% casein as well as chow remained significantly elevated above C values, but responded to the addition of insulin with a reduction in release rates to C values, except from the muscles of Nx animals fed 40% casein. Tyrosine (TYR) and phenylalanine (PHE) release rates also were increased in muscles from Nx rats compared with C after 1 h of incubation. Release rates were highest in the Nx group fed 10% casein and decreased with increasing protein intake. Addition of insulin decreased the release rates of Nx rats to C values in each group. After 3 h of incubation, release rates of TYR and PHE in muscles from Nx rats remained significantly above C values for all groups, but responded to the addition of insulin with a decrease to C values. Glutamine and glutamate release were not significantly affected by reduction in renal mass.Base-line glucose uptake by all groups of muscles from Nx rats was significantly greater than corresponding C values, but maximal insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was comparable in all groups. Tissue pool sizes for glycogen, ATP, phosphocreatine, ALA, glutamate, and glutamine were unaffected by reduction in renal mass. The results indicate that Nx is associated with accelerated ALA, TYR, and PHE release from muscle. ALA release rose with increasing protein intake and decreased to values observed from C muscles after addition of insulin except in Nx animals fed 40% casein. TYR and PHE release decreased with increasing protein intake and also decreased to C values with the addition of insulin. The data also suggest that ALA release is not dependent upon glucose uptake in muscles from either C or Nx rats.", "PMID": 457866} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12936", "title": "A critical assessment of the mechanism by which hyperoxia attenuates exercise-induced asthma.", "content": "Recent data demonstrate that the magnitude of the heat loss that occurs from the respiratory tract during exercise correlates with the degree of post-exertional obstruction that develops in asthmatics. Respiratory heat loss relates directly to the minute ventilation and heat capacity of the inspired gas and inversely to its water content and temperature. Because it has been shown that inhaling 100% oxygen during exercise blunts the obstructive response, we wondered if this effect could be accounted for by differing values of heat exchange with air and oxygen breathing. To examine this question, we studied 10 asthmatics by measuring multiple aspects of pulmonary mechanics before and after four bouts of exhausting leg work during which the subjects inhaled either air or oxygen conditioned to provide widely differing thermal burdens on their airways. Under all inspired gas conditions, oxygen breathing produced significantly less obstruction than air. Minute ventilation was also significantly less with oxygen as was the total heat lost. As the latter fell, so did the magnitude of the postexercise obstruction. When the differences in ventilation and respiratory heat loss between air and oxygen were eliminated by eucapnic hyperventilation, the differences in the obstructive responses also disappeared. Thus, the effects of hyperoxia on exercise-induced asthma can be accounteed for solely by alterations in heat exchange.", "contents": "A critical assessment of the mechanism by which hyperoxia attenuates exercise-induced asthma. Recent data demonstrate that the magnitude of the heat loss that occurs from the respiratory tract during exercise correlates with the degree of post-exertional obstruction that develops in asthmatics. Respiratory heat loss relates directly to the minute ventilation and heat capacity of the inspired gas and inversely to its water content and temperature. Because it has been shown that inhaling 100% oxygen during exercise blunts the obstructive response, we wondered if this effect could be accounted for by differing values of heat exchange with air and oxygen breathing. To examine this question, we studied 10 asthmatics by measuring multiple aspects of pulmonary mechanics before and after four bouts of exhausting leg work during which the subjects inhaled either air or oxygen conditioned to provide widely differing thermal burdens on their airways. Under all inspired gas conditions, oxygen breathing produced significantly less obstruction than air. Minute ventilation was also significantly less with oxygen as was the total heat lost. As the latter fell, so did the magnitude of the postexercise obstruction. When the differences in ventilation and respiratory heat loss between air and oxygen were eliminated by eucapnic hyperventilation, the differences in the obstructive responses also disappeared. Thus, the effects of hyperoxia on exercise-induced asthma can be accounteed for solely by alterations in heat exchange.", "PMID": 457867} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12937", "title": "Effect of volume expansion on hemodynamics of the hypoperfused rat kidney.", "content": "The hemodynamics of the rat kidney were studied during reduction of renal arterial pressure to 35-40 mm Hg (H), and after volume expansion at that pressure with 0.9% NaCl (IS), 1.7% NaCl (HS), 5% mannitol in 0.9% NaCl (MS), 5% mannitol in water (MW), or 50 mM mannitol + 125 mM NaCl. During H, left renal blood flow (RBF) was 0.8+/-0.1 ml/min. Expansion with IS did not alter RBF, but expansion with HS, MS, MW, and 50 + 125 mM NaCl elevated RBF to 200-250% of hypoperfusion values. Glomerular capillary pressure rose significantly from 15.7+/-0.7 mm Hg during H to 22.3+/-1.1, 24.4+/-0.7, and 26.6+/-0.7 mm Hg following expansion with HS, MS, or MW, respectively. Efferent arteriolar pressure also rose significantly to 6.9+/-0.5, 9.7+/-0.8, and 9.5+/-0.9 mm Hg, respectively. Preglomerular resistance fell to 18-24% of H values, and postglomerular resistance fell to 58-74% of H values after expansion with HS, MS, or MW. Glomerular filtration (GFR) could not be detected during H or after IS expansion. HS and mannitol-containing solutions restored GFR to 0.10+/-0.02-0.15+/-0.02 ml/min, and single nephron glomerular filtration to 6-12 nl/min. Papaverine, acetylcholine, and kinins had no effect on RBF or GFR at a perfusion pressure of 35-40 mm Hg. We conclude that mannitol and HS have the capacity to augment RBF during hypoperfusion by reducing arteriolar resistance. The mechanism of the rise in RBF is uncertain; it may be due to changes in effective osmolality of the extracellular fluid or to a direct action of mannitol on vascular smooth muscle. Other potent vasodilators were ineffective during hypoperfusion. Restoration of GFR occurs as a result of the combined effects of augmented RBF and elevated net filtration pressure.", "contents": "Effect of volume expansion on hemodynamics of the hypoperfused rat kidney. The hemodynamics of the rat kidney were studied during reduction of renal arterial pressure to 35-40 mm Hg (H), and after volume expansion at that pressure with 0.9% NaCl (IS), 1.7% NaCl (HS), 5% mannitol in 0.9% NaCl (MS), 5% mannitol in water (MW), or 50 mM mannitol + 125 mM NaCl. During H, left renal blood flow (RBF) was 0.8+/-0.1 ml/min. Expansion with IS did not alter RBF, but expansion with HS, MS, MW, and 50 + 125 mM NaCl elevated RBF to 200-250% of hypoperfusion values. Glomerular capillary pressure rose significantly from 15.7+/-0.7 mm Hg during H to 22.3+/-1.1, 24.4+/-0.7, and 26.6+/-0.7 mm Hg following expansion with HS, MS, or MW, respectively. Efferent arteriolar pressure also rose significantly to 6.9+/-0.5, 9.7+/-0.8, and 9.5+/-0.9 mm Hg, respectively. Preglomerular resistance fell to 18-24% of H values, and postglomerular resistance fell to 58-74% of H values after expansion with HS, MS, or MW. Glomerular filtration (GFR) could not be detected during H or after IS expansion. HS and mannitol-containing solutions restored GFR to 0.10+/-0.02-0.15+/-0.02 ml/min, and single nephron glomerular filtration to 6-12 nl/min. Papaverine, acetylcholine, and kinins had no effect on RBF or GFR at a perfusion pressure of 35-40 mm Hg. We conclude that mannitol and HS have the capacity to augment RBF during hypoperfusion by reducing arteriolar resistance. The mechanism of the rise in RBF is uncertain; it may be due to changes in effective osmolality of the extracellular fluid or to a direct action of mannitol on vascular smooth muscle. Other potent vasodilators were ineffective during hypoperfusion. Restoration of GFR occurs as a result of the combined effects of augmented RBF and elevated net filtration pressure.", "PMID": 457868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12938", "title": "Effects of anion-transport inhibitors on NaCl reabsorption in the rat superficial proximal convoluted tubule.", "content": "The effects of anion-transport inhibitors on volume reabsorption, and total CO(2) concentrations were examined by in vivo microperfusion of superficial proximal convoluted tubules of rats. The luminal perfusion solution was a high-chloride, low-bicarbonate solution like that in the in vivo late proximal tubule. The anion-transport inhibitors were only added to the luminal perfusion solutions. In tubules perfused with the control high-chloride solution, the rate of volume reabsorption (J(v)) was 2.3+/-0.2 nl/mm.min (n = 18), and the collected total CO(2) concentration was 4.0+/-0.3 mM. Furosemide (3 mM) caused a marked reduction in volume reabsorption to 0.8+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 20) and only a slight increase in the total CO(2) concentration of collected samples of perfusate (7.8+/-0.5 mM). 0.8 mM acetazolamide caused a more pronounced rise in the collected total CO(2) concentrations to 10.7+/-0.5 mM but only a slight fall in J(v) to 1.7+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 19). Hence, we inferred that inhibition of carbonic anhydrase only partially accounted for the inhibition of J(v) by furosemide. 4-acetamido-4'-iso-thiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (0.1 mM), a well-characterized inhibitor of erythrocyte anion exchange mechanisms, also reduced J(v) to 1.6+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 15) without changing the total CO(2) concentrations of the collected perfusates (3.6+/-0.4 mM). The effect of 4-acetamido-4'-iso-thiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid on volume reabsorption could not be explained by carbonic anhydrase inhibition because there was no increase in the total CO(2) concentration of the collected fluids. Furosemide did not significantly inhibit the rate of tracer glucose efflux out of the tubules, which suggests that the effect of furosemide on volume reabsorption was not a result of some nonspecific depression of active sodium transport. These results are discussed with respect to the possible effects of anion-transport inhibitors on the paracellular shunt pathway, active sodium reabsorption, and neutral sodium chloride transport.", "contents": "Effects of anion-transport inhibitors on NaCl reabsorption in the rat superficial proximal convoluted tubule. The effects of anion-transport inhibitors on volume reabsorption, and total CO(2) concentrations were examined by in vivo microperfusion of superficial proximal convoluted tubules of rats. The luminal perfusion solution was a high-chloride, low-bicarbonate solution like that in the in vivo late proximal tubule. The anion-transport inhibitors were only added to the luminal perfusion solutions. In tubules perfused with the control high-chloride solution, the rate of volume reabsorption (J(v)) was 2.3+/-0.2 nl/mm.min (n = 18), and the collected total CO(2) concentration was 4.0+/-0.3 mM. Furosemide (3 mM) caused a marked reduction in volume reabsorption to 0.8+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 20) and only a slight increase in the total CO(2) concentration of collected samples of perfusate (7.8+/-0.5 mM). 0.8 mM acetazolamide caused a more pronounced rise in the collected total CO(2) concentrations to 10.7+/-0.5 mM but only a slight fall in J(v) to 1.7+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 19). Hence, we inferred that inhibition of carbonic anhydrase only partially accounted for the inhibition of J(v) by furosemide. 4-acetamido-4'-iso-thiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (0.1 mM), a well-characterized inhibitor of erythrocyte anion exchange mechanisms, also reduced J(v) to 1.6+/-0.3 nl/mm.min (n = 15) without changing the total CO(2) concentrations of the collected perfusates (3.6+/-0.4 mM). The effect of 4-acetamido-4'-iso-thiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid on volume reabsorption could not be explained by carbonic anhydrase inhibition because there was no increase in the total CO(2) concentration of the collected fluids. Furosemide did not significantly inhibit the rate of tracer glucose efflux out of the tubules, which suggests that the effect of furosemide on volume reabsorption was not a result of some nonspecific depression of active sodium transport. These results are discussed with respect to the possible effects of anion-transport inhibitors on the paracellular shunt pathway, active sodium reabsorption, and neutral sodium chloride transport.", "PMID": 457869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12939", "title": "Neutropenia, inflammation, and the kinetics of transfused neutrophils in rabbits.", "content": "A rabbit model was used to study the effects of neutropenia and inflammation on the intravascular distribution, survival, and tissue accumulation of transfused neutrophils. Donor blood labeled with [(3)H]thymidine was infused into normal or neutropenic (vinblastine treated) animals. Inflammation was created by subcutaneous implantation of polyvinyl sponges, some with added endotoxin. Initial circulating neutrophil pool recovery, survival, and inflammatory site accumulation of labeled neutrophils were measured. Neutropenia was associated with a relative increase in the marginal pool size, manifested by a diminished initial circulating pool (CNP) recovery of transfused cells. The CNP recovery was directly proportional to recipient neutrophil count. Neutropenia had no effect on the intravascular survival of transfused cells and was accompanied by only a modest decrease in the inflammatory site recovery of the transfused neutrophils (10.4+/-5.4 vs. 14.4+/-4.0% in normals). Inflammation in the form of subcutaneous polyvinyl sponges was accompanied by an increase in margination with initial CNP recoveries of 24.3+/-4.7 and 27.6+/-8.8% at zero and 4 h after implantation respectively (normal, 38.2+/-9.9%). Transit through the CNP was hastened by inflammation with a t((1/2)) of 2.02+/-0.72 h (normal, 3.2+/-1.0 h). Addition of endotoxin to the sponges further perturbed cell kinetics. CNP recoveries were considerably lower and half-lifes were initially shorter and subsequently uninterpretable in studies done after endotoxin sponge insertion. Inflammatory site accumulation was markedly diminished to 7.4+/-1.9% of injected neutrophil label in the endotoxin sponge animals, suggesting that many of the transfused cells were functionally unavailable rather than marginated. These studies demonstrate that neutropenia and inflammation with or without endotoxin markedly alter the kinetics of transfused neutrophils and that CNP recovery of transfused cells is not necessarily predictive of their inflammatory site accumulation.", "contents": "Neutropenia, inflammation, and the kinetics of transfused neutrophils in rabbits. A rabbit model was used to study the effects of neutropenia and inflammation on the intravascular distribution, survival, and tissue accumulation of transfused neutrophils. Donor blood labeled with [(3)H]thymidine was infused into normal or neutropenic (vinblastine treated) animals. Inflammation was created by subcutaneous implantation of polyvinyl sponges, some with added endotoxin. Initial circulating neutrophil pool recovery, survival, and inflammatory site accumulation of labeled neutrophils were measured. Neutropenia was associated with a relative increase in the marginal pool size, manifested by a diminished initial circulating pool (CNP) recovery of transfused cells. The CNP recovery was directly proportional to recipient neutrophil count. Neutropenia had no effect on the intravascular survival of transfused cells and was accompanied by only a modest decrease in the inflammatory site recovery of the transfused neutrophils (10.4+/-5.4 vs. 14.4+/-4.0% in normals). Inflammation in the form of subcutaneous polyvinyl sponges was accompanied by an increase in margination with initial CNP recoveries of 24.3+/-4.7 and 27.6+/-8.8% at zero and 4 h after implantation respectively (normal, 38.2+/-9.9%). Transit through the CNP was hastened by inflammation with a t((1/2)) of 2.02+/-0.72 h (normal, 3.2+/-1.0 h). Addition of endotoxin to the sponges further perturbed cell kinetics. CNP recoveries were considerably lower and half-lifes were initially shorter and subsequently uninterpretable in studies done after endotoxin sponge insertion. Inflammatory site accumulation was markedly diminished to 7.4+/-1.9% of injected neutrophil label in the endotoxin sponge animals, suggesting that many of the transfused cells were functionally unavailable rather than marginated. These studies demonstrate that neutropenia and inflammation with or without endotoxin markedly alter the kinetics of transfused neutrophils and that CNP recovery of transfused cells is not necessarily predictive of their inflammatory site accumulation.", "PMID": 457870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12940", "title": "Biphasic effects of prostaglandin E2 on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase.", "content": "Adenylate cyclase of human fat cell ghosts shows a biphasic response towards prostaglandin E2 with inhibition occurring at nanomolar concentrations of the hormone and stimulation at concentrations beyond 10(-6) mol/liter. The expression of the inhibitory effect is critically dependent on GTP. Under the conditions employed (1 mmol/liter ATP, 5 mmol/liter Mg2+, 30 degrees C) the inhibitory component of prostaglandin E2 became apparent at GTP concentrations exceeding 10(-6) mol/liter. The prostaglandin E2-induced inhibition displayed characteristic features of prostaglandin action in intact fat cells with respect to the effective concentrations and degree of inhibition. It is concluded that prostaglandin E2 is capable of inducing antagonistic effects upon lipolysis via interaction with the membrane-bound adenylate cyclase.", "contents": "Biphasic effects of prostaglandin E2 on the human fat cell adenylate cyclase. Adenylate cyclase of human fat cell ghosts shows a biphasic response towards prostaglandin E2 with inhibition occurring at nanomolar concentrations of the hormone and stimulation at concentrations beyond 10(-6) mol/liter. The expression of the inhibitory effect is critically dependent on GTP. Under the conditions employed (1 mmol/liter ATP, 5 mmol/liter Mg2+, 30 degrees C) the inhibitory component of prostaglandin E2 became apparent at GTP concentrations exceeding 10(-6) mol/liter. The prostaglandin E2-induced inhibition displayed characteristic features of prostaglandin action in intact fat cells with respect to the effective concentrations and degree of inhibition. It is concluded that prostaglandin E2 is capable of inducing antagonistic effects upon lipolysis via interaction with the membrane-bound adenylate cyclase.", "PMID": 457871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12941", "title": "Conditioning effects of chronic infusions of dobutamine. Comparison with exercise training.", "content": "We studied the conditioning effects of chronic infusion of dobutamine and exercise training in three groups of chronically instrumented dogs. One group was infused with normal saline, a second group was infused with dobutamine (40 mug/kg per min), and the third group was exercised on a treadmill at 4 mph, up a 10 degrees incline. Each group was either infused or exercised for 2 h a day, 5 d a week for 5 consecutive wk. Resting heart rate and arterial blood lactate concentration, measured at weekly intervals, decreased progressively in the dobutamine and exercise groups, but not in the group that received normal saline infusion. Cardiovascular responses to submaximal treadmill exercise were not changed by 5 wk of normal saline infusion. However, the increases in heart rate, cardiac output, mean aortic blood pressure, arterial blood lactate, plasma renin activity, and norepinephrine concentration during exercise were significantly smaller after 5 wk of conditioning with either dobutamine or exercise training. After conditioning, the increases in arteriovenous oxygen difference during exercise were larger in the latter two groups, but the increases in total body oxygen consumption did not differ before and after conditioning. To assess ventricular function, we intravenously infused methoxamine both before and after conditioning. The slope of the line that related systolic aortic blood pressure and mean left atrial pressure increased in the animals conditioned with either dobutamine or exercise, indicating enhanced myocardial contractility. Left ventricular blood flow was lower in these two groups of animals than it was in the normal saline group. Left ventricular weight did not differ among the three groups. Our results show that chronic infusion of dobutamine produced cardiovascular and metabolic conditioning effects like those produced by exercise training, and further suggest that sympathetic stimulation during exercise plays a role in physical conditioning.", "contents": "Conditioning effects of chronic infusions of dobutamine. Comparison with exercise training. We studied the conditioning effects of chronic infusion of dobutamine and exercise training in three groups of chronically instrumented dogs. One group was infused with normal saline, a second group was infused with dobutamine (40 mug/kg per min), and the third group was exercised on a treadmill at 4 mph, up a 10 degrees incline. Each group was either infused or exercised for 2 h a day, 5 d a week for 5 consecutive wk. Resting heart rate and arterial blood lactate concentration, measured at weekly intervals, decreased progressively in the dobutamine and exercise groups, but not in the group that received normal saline infusion. Cardiovascular responses to submaximal treadmill exercise were not changed by 5 wk of normal saline infusion. However, the increases in heart rate, cardiac output, mean aortic blood pressure, arterial blood lactate, plasma renin activity, and norepinephrine concentration during exercise were significantly smaller after 5 wk of conditioning with either dobutamine or exercise training. After conditioning, the increases in arteriovenous oxygen difference during exercise were larger in the latter two groups, but the increases in total body oxygen consumption did not differ before and after conditioning. To assess ventricular function, we intravenously infused methoxamine both before and after conditioning. The slope of the line that related systolic aortic blood pressure and mean left atrial pressure increased in the animals conditioned with either dobutamine or exercise, indicating enhanced myocardial contractility. Left ventricular blood flow was lower in these two groups of animals than it was in the normal saline group. Left ventricular weight did not differ among the three groups. Our results show that chronic infusion of dobutamine produced cardiovascular and metabolic conditioning effects like those produced by exercise training, and further suggest that sympathetic stimulation during exercise plays a role in physical conditioning.", "PMID": 457872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12942", "title": "Reflex cardiovascular depression during unilateral lung hyperinflation in the dog.", "content": "We have examined whether lung hyperinflation in the anesthetized dog reflexly depresses cardiac output, stroke volume, heart rate, and blood pressure and whether these changes persist for more than a minute. To eliminate any mechanical restriction to venous return and pulmonary blood flow during lung hyperinflation, a model was developed in which all pulmonary artery blood flow and all ventilation were directed to the right lung in dogs with widely open chest and the left lung was hyperinflated before and after left cervical vagotomy. Heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure decreased by 24, 20, and 27%, respectively, within 15 s of left lung inflation to 30 cm H(2)O. Heart rate increased to preinflation levels by 1 min, but stroke volume and blood pressure remained depressed during lung hyperinflation for at least 15 min. Upon deflation, stroke volume and blood pressure returned to control levels within 1 min. Division of the left vagosympathetic trunk at the neck interrupted all autonomic afferent and efferent nerves of the left lung, but left intact the right vagal sympathetic and parasympathetic afferent and efferent nerves of the heart. After left cervical vagotomy the transient fall in heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure during left lung hyperinflation was greatly reduced or eliminated. These results suggest that unilateral lung hyperinflation reflexly depresses heart rate and blood pressure, which are partially compensated with time, and reflexly depresses stroke volume, which persists uncompensated until the lung is deflated. These findings may explain the depressed cardiovascular function observed during regional lung overdistention especially when it occurs during positive pressure ventilation.", "contents": "Reflex cardiovascular depression during unilateral lung hyperinflation in the dog. We have examined whether lung hyperinflation in the anesthetized dog reflexly depresses cardiac output, stroke volume, heart rate, and blood pressure and whether these changes persist for more than a minute. To eliminate any mechanical restriction to venous return and pulmonary blood flow during lung hyperinflation, a model was developed in which all pulmonary artery blood flow and all ventilation were directed to the right lung in dogs with widely open chest and the left lung was hyperinflated before and after left cervical vagotomy. Heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure decreased by 24, 20, and 27%, respectively, within 15 s of left lung inflation to 30 cm H(2)O. Heart rate increased to preinflation levels by 1 min, but stroke volume and blood pressure remained depressed during lung hyperinflation for at least 15 min. Upon deflation, stroke volume and blood pressure returned to control levels within 1 min. Division of the left vagosympathetic trunk at the neck interrupted all autonomic afferent and efferent nerves of the left lung, but left intact the right vagal sympathetic and parasympathetic afferent and efferent nerves of the heart. After left cervical vagotomy the transient fall in heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure during left lung hyperinflation was greatly reduced or eliminated. These results suggest that unilateral lung hyperinflation reflexly depresses heart rate and blood pressure, which are partially compensated with time, and reflexly depresses stroke volume, which persists uncompensated until the lung is deflated. These findings may explain the depressed cardiovascular function observed during regional lung overdistention especially when it occurs during positive pressure ventilation.", "PMID": 457873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12943", "title": "Aortic input impedance during nitroprusside infusion. A reconsideration of afterload reduction and beneficial action.", "content": "Beneficial effects of nitroprusside infusion in heart failure are purportedly a result of decreased afterload through \"impedance\" reduction. To study the effect of nitroprusside on vascular factors that determine the total load opposing left ventricular ejection, the total aortic input impedance spectrum was examined in 12 patients with heart failure (cardiac index <2.0 liters/min per m(2) and left ventricular end diastolic pressure >20 mm Hg). This input impedance spectrum expresses both mean flow (resistance) and pulsatile flow (compliance and wave reflections) components of vascular load. Aortic root blood flow velocity and pressure were recorded continuously with a catheter-tip electromagnetic velocity probe in addition to left ventricular pressure. Small doses of nitroprusside (9-19 mug/min) altered the total aortic input impedance spectrum as significant (P < 0.05) reductions in both mean and pulsatile components were observed within 60-90 s. With these acute changes in vascular load, left ventricular end diastolic pressure declined (44%) and stroke volume increased (20%, both P < 0.05). Larger nitroprusside doses (20-38 mug/min) caused additional alteration in the aortic input impedance spectrum with further reduction in left ventricular end diastolic pressure and increase in stroke volume but no additional changes in the impedance spectrum or stroke volume occurred with 39-77 mug/min. Improved ventricular function persisted when aortic pressure was restored to control values with simultaneous phenylephrine infusion in three patients. These data indicate that nitroprusside acutely alters both the mean and pulsatile components of vascular load to effect improvement in ventricular function in patients with heart failure. The evidence presented suggests that it may be possible to reduce vascular load and improve ventricular function independent of aortic pressure reduction.", "contents": "Aortic input impedance during nitroprusside infusion. A reconsideration of afterload reduction and beneficial action. Beneficial effects of nitroprusside infusion in heart failure are purportedly a result of decreased afterload through \"impedance\" reduction. To study the effect of nitroprusside on vascular factors that determine the total load opposing left ventricular ejection, the total aortic input impedance spectrum was examined in 12 patients with heart failure (cardiac index <2.0 liters/min per m(2) and left ventricular end diastolic pressure >20 mm Hg). This input impedance spectrum expresses both mean flow (resistance) and pulsatile flow (compliance and wave reflections) components of vascular load. Aortic root blood flow velocity and pressure were recorded continuously with a catheter-tip electromagnetic velocity probe in addition to left ventricular pressure. Small doses of nitroprusside (9-19 mug/min) altered the total aortic input impedance spectrum as significant (P < 0.05) reductions in both mean and pulsatile components were observed within 60-90 s. With these acute changes in vascular load, left ventricular end diastolic pressure declined (44%) and stroke volume increased (20%, both P < 0.05). Larger nitroprusside doses (20-38 mug/min) caused additional alteration in the aortic input impedance spectrum with further reduction in left ventricular end diastolic pressure and increase in stroke volume but no additional changes in the impedance spectrum or stroke volume occurred with 39-77 mug/min. Improved ventricular function persisted when aortic pressure was restored to control values with simultaneous phenylephrine infusion in three patients. These data indicate that nitroprusside acutely alters both the mean and pulsatile components of vascular load to effect improvement in ventricular function in patients with heart failure. The evidence presented suggests that it may be possible to reduce vascular load and improve ventricular function independent of aortic pressure reduction.", "PMID": 457874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12944", "title": "Altered mineral metabolism in glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia. Effect of 25-hydroxyvitamin D administration.", "content": "Parameters of mineral and bone metabolism were studied in 17 patients treated chronically with supraphysiologic doses of glucocorticoids. When compared to 15 matched normal subjects, the patient group exhibited similar serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels, decreased intestinal 47Ca absorption, increased serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone, and decreased forearm bone mass. Iliac crest bone biopsies revealed a decreased bone formation rate and increased osteoclast number. Treatment with 25-OHD (mean dose 4.03 micrograms/d) and calcium (500 mg/d) in nine patients produced a 46% increase in 47Ca absorption (P less than 0.001) and a 54% decrease in serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (P less than 0.001) by 3 mo. In addition, by 12 mo the treatment group exhibited (a) a 13.2 +/- 5.1% increase in metaphyseal (P less than 0.001) and a 2.1 +/- 0.4% increase in diaphyseal (P less than 0.05) forearm bone mass, and (b) significant decreases in cortical and endosteal osteoclast number. Biochemical and bone mass changes persisted through 18 mo. No significant changes in any parameter occurred in eight control patients administered calcium 100 mg/d. It is concluded that treatment with 25-OHD and calcium can significantly improve parameters of mineral and bone metabolism in patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia.", "contents": "Altered mineral metabolism in glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia. Effect of 25-hydroxyvitamin D administration. Parameters of mineral and bone metabolism were studied in 17 patients treated chronically with supraphysiologic doses of glucocorticoids. When compared to 15 matched normal subjects, the patient group exhibited similar serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels, decreased intestinal 47Ca absorption, increased serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone, and decreased forearm bone mass. Iliac crest bone biopsies revealed a decreased bone formation rate and increased osteoclast number. Treatment with 25-OHD (mean dose 4.03 micrograms/d) and calcium (500 mg/d) in nine patients produced a 46% increase in 47Ca absorption (P less than 0.001) and a 54% decrease in serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (P less than 0.001) by 3 mo. In addition, by 12 mo the treatment group exhibited (a) a 13.2 +/- 5.1% increase in metaphyseal (P less than 0.001) and a 2.1 +/- 0.4% increase in diaphyseal (P less than 0.05) forearm bone mass, and (b) significant decreases in cortical and endosteal osteoclast number. Biochemical and bone mass changes persisted through 18 mo. No significant changes in any parameter occurred in eight control patients administered calcium 100 mg/d. It is concluded that treatment with 25-OHD and calcium can significantly improve parameters of mineral and bone metabolism in patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia.", "PMID": 457875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12945", "title": "Role of cytochrome P-450 in alveolar hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in dogs.", "content": "Alveolar hypoxia induces pulmonary vasoconstriction by an unknown mechanism. Cytochrome P-450 (C-P450) is found in the lung and may modify pulmonary vascular tone via its sensitivity to changes in oxygen tension or by affecting metabolism of a chemical mediator. Metyrapone and carbon monoxide are both inhibitors of C-P450. We tested alveolar hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (AHPV) in 20 dogs before, during, and after separate administration of each inhibitor. Anesthetized dogs were ventilated through a double lumen endotracheal tube allowing ventilation of one lung with N(2) or CO as a hypoxic challenge and ventilation of the other lung with O(2) to maintain adequate systemic oxygenation. Distribution of lung perfusion was determined with intravenous (133)Xenon and external chest detectors. Before infusion of metyrapone, mean perfusion to the test lung decreased 30% with alveolar hypoxic challenge, but decreased only 10% during metyrapone infusion and returned to a base-line mean decrease of 31% after completion of metyrapone infusion. Prostaglandin F(2) alpha and angiotensin II infusions produced equivalent increases in pulmonary vascular resistance before and during metyrapone infusion. Before CO, mean test lung perfusion decreased 31% with alveolar hypoxia but was reduced only 10% from control when unilateral end-tidal CO% was >75%. Washout of alveolar CO with unilateral N(2) ventilation restored AHPV, with perfusion decreasing 29% from control. Thus, both metyrapone and carbon monoxide can reversibly inhibit AHPV. C-P450 may, therefore, be involved in the transduction process of the vasoconstrictor response to alveolar hypoxia.", "contents": "Role of cytochrome P-450 in alveolar hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in dogs. Alveolar hypoxia induces pulmonary vasoconstriction by an unknown mechanism. Cytochrome P-450 (C-P450) is found in the lung and may modify pulmonary vascular tone via its sensitivity to changes in oxygen tension or by affecting metabolism of a chemical mediator. Metyrapone and carbon monoxide are both inhibitors of C-P450. We tested alveolar hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (AHPV) in 20 dogs before, during, and after separate administration of each inhibitor. Anesthetized dogs were ventilated through a double lumen endotracheal tube allowing ventilation of one lung with N(2) or CO as a hypoxic challenge and ventilation of the other lung with O(2) to maintain adequate systemic oxygenation. Distribution of lung perfusion was determined with intravenous (133)Xenon and external chest detectors. Before infusion of metyrapone, mean perfusion to the test lung decreased 30% with alveolar hypoxic challenge, but decreased only 10% during metyrapone infusion and returned to a base-line mean decrease of 31% after completion of metyrapone infusion. Prostaglandin F(2) alpha and angiotensin II infusions produced equivalent increases in pulmonary vascular resistance before and during metyrapone infusion. Before CO, mean test lung perfusion decreased 31% with alveolar hypoxia but was reduced only 10% from control when unilateral end-tidal CO% was >75%. Washout of alveolar CO with unilateral N(2) ventilation restored AHPV, with perfusion decreasing 29% from control. Thus, both metyrapone and carbon monoxide can reversibly inhibit AHPV. C-P450 may, therefore, be involved in the transduction process of the vasoconstrictor response to alveolar hypoxia.", "PMID": 457876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12946", "title": "Osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption. Computerized tomographic monitoring of chemotherapeutic agent delivery.", "content": "The present study describes a canine model of transient reversible blood-brain barrier disruption with hyperosmolar mannitol infusion into the internal carotid artery. Studies in this model show that osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption before intracarotid infusion of methotrexate results in markedly elevated (therapeutic) levels of drug in the ipsilateral cerebral hemisphere. Levels in the cerebrospinal fluid correlate poorly and inconsistently with brain levels. Computerized tomograms in this canine model provide a noninvasive monitor of the degree, time-course, and localization of osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption.", "contents": "Osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption. Computerized tomographic monitoring of chemotherapeutic agent delivery. The present study describes a canine model of transient reversible blood-brain barrier disruption with hyperosmolar mannitol infusion into the internal carotid artery. Studies in this model show that osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption before intracarotid infusion of methotrexate results in markedly elevated (therapeutic) levels of drug in the ipsilateral cerebral hemisphere. Levels in the cerebrospinal fluid correlate poorly and inconsistently with brain levels. Computerized tomograms in this canine model provide a noninvasive monitor of the degree, time-course, and localization of osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption.", "PMID": 457877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12947", "title": "Sex differences on the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery and on other neuropsychological measures.", "content": "Evaluated differences in performance between adult males and females with respect to Halstead's Neuropsychological Battery, additional tests employed by Reitan (Trail Making Test, Aphasia Screening Test, Perceptual Examination, dynamometer), and other neuropsychological measures (Seashore Tonal Memory Test, Logical Memory and Visual Reproduction portions of the Wechsler Memory Scale). In evaluating differences, 47 matched pairs of non-neurologic males and females were employed, as well as 47 pairs of neurologic patients. A small number of statistically significant differences were found, all of which favored males. Some of these differences occurred with respect to tasks that have very strong motor components, and these differences were shown to be related to hand size. Others pertained to tasks that have strong visual-spatial components. In general, the differences were less prominent with the neurologic than the non-neurologic samples. The question was raised as to possible over-representation of male-superior components in these tests.", "contents": "Sex differences on the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery and on other neuropsychological measures. Evaluated differences in performance between adult males and females with respect to Halstead's Neuropsychological Battery, additional tests employed by Reitan (Trail Making Test, Aphasia Screening Test, Perceptual Examination, dynamometer), and other neuropsychological measures (Seashore Tonal Memory Test, Logical Memory and Visual Reproduction portions of the Wechsler Memory Scale). In evaluating differences, 47 matched pairs of non-neurologic males and females were employed, as well as 47 pairs of neurologic patients. A small number of statistically significant differences were found, all of which favored males. Some of these differences occurred with respect to tasks that have very strong motor components, and these differences were shown to be related to hand size. Others pertained to tasks that have strong visual-spatial components. In general, the differences were less prominent with the neurologic than the non-neurologic samples. The question was raised as to possible over-representation of male-superior components in these tests.", "PMID": 457878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12948", "title": "Comparison of neuropsychological data in the diagnosis of brain impairment with computerized tomography and other neurological procedures.", "content": "Discussed the problem of criterion validation of neuropsychological tests. Computerized tomography (CT) is suggested as an approach in providing a criterion of focal structural lesions for evaluating predictability of neuropsychological tests. Neuropsychological tests on 62 patients were compared with CT scans, electroencephalographic results, and routine neurological examination. Results of the neuropsychology evaluation produced overall better agreement with CT scan results than did the other procedures. Diagnostic limitations of CT scanning and the unique diagnostic contribution of neuropsychological test results are discussed.", "contents": "Comparison of neuropsychological data in the diagnosis of brain impairment with computerized tomography and other neurological procedures. Discussed the problem of criterion validation of neuropsychological tests. Computerized tomography (CT) is suggested as an approach in providing a criterion of focal structural lesions for evaluating predictability of neuropsychological tests. Neuropsychological tests on 62 patients were compared with CT scans, electroencephalographic results, and routine neurological examination. Results of the neuropsychology evaluation produced overall better agreement with CT scan results than did the other procedures. Diagnostic limitations of CT scanning and the unique diagnostic contribution of neuropsychological test results are discussed.", "PMID": 457879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12949", "title": "The relationship of personality style to abstract thinking deficits in schizophrenia.", "content": "Hypothesized that the correlation between Inability to Abstract and Autism measures of schizophrenics would be larger after the effects of relevant personality variables were partialed out than before. The multiple correlations of these deficit measures with 15 of the Sixteen Personality Factor scales and a measure of verbosity were determined in a sample of 100 schizophrenics. The correlations between Inability to Abstract and Autism before and after those scales that contributed significantly to the Rs had been partialed out also were calculated. Neither was significant. The results offer no support for the view that observed differences between schizophrenic subgroups in inability to abstract and autism reflect variations in personality style rather than cognitive factors.", "contents": "The relationship of personality style to abstract thinking deficits in schizophrenia. Hypothesized that the correlation between Inability to Abstract and Autism measures of schizophrenics would be larger after the effects of relevant personality variables were partialed out than before. The multiple correlations of these deficit measures with 15 of the Sixteen Personality Factor scales and a measure of verbosity were determined in a sample of 100 schizophrenics. The correlations between Inability to Abstract and Autism before and after those scales that contributed significantly to the Rs had been partialed out also were calculated. Neither was significant. The results offer no support for the view that observed differences between schizophrenic subgroups in inability to abstract and autism reflect variations in personality style rather than cognitive factors.", "PMID": 457880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12950", "title": "The effects of LSD-25 and dextroamphetamine on the use of defensive language.", "content": "Verified that psychotomimetics attenuate verbal defense mechanisms. This was accomplished by reanalyzing the 5-minute monologues of 7 neurotic depressives who participated in a project (Mechaneck, Feldstein, Dahlberg, & Jaffe, 1968) that examined the effects of LSD and dextroamphetamine on timing aspects of speech. Dosages were subhallucinatory: 15-25 mg dextroamphetamine, 50-100 mg LSD, and a matching placebo. Volunteers received each drug (double-blind) seven or eight times on a random schedule over a 1 1/2-year period; there was a 3-week intertrial interval. The patient provided 5-minute monologues both before and after drug effects. The monologues were transcribed and scored for formal measures of defensive language. Results indicated that LSD caused individuals to make more personal statements and to use explanation and evaluations less often. Dextroamphetamine was found to decrease the use of nonpersonal references.", "contents": "The effects of LSD-25 and dextroamphetamine on the use of defensive language. Verified that psychotomimetics attenuate verbal defense mechanisms. This was accomplished by reanalyzing the 5-minute monologues of 7 neurotic depressives who participated in a project (Mechaneck, Feldstein, Dahlberg, & Jaffe, 1968) that examined the effects of LSD and dextroamphetamine on timing aspects of speech. Dosages were subhallucinatory: 15-25 mg dextroamphetamine, 50-100 mg LSD, and a matching placebo. Volunteers received each drug (double-blind) seven or eight times on a random schedule over a 1 1/2-year period; there was a 3-week intertrial interval. The patient provided 5-minute monologues both before and after drug effects. The monologues were transcribed and scored for formal measures of defensive language. Results indicated that LSD caused individuals to make more personal statements and to use explanation and evaluations less often. Dextroamphetamine was found to decrease the use of nonpersonal references.", "PMID": 457881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12951", "title": "The semantic perception of life, death and suicide.", "content": "Gathered semantic distance scores between pairs of concepts (life and death, life and suicide, and death and suicide) from suicidal, psychosomatic, and hospitalized patients (N = 45). It was hypothesized that suicidal individuals would show greater semantic identity between these concepts than would the other patients. It was thought that such semantic identity on the part of the other patients. It was thought that such semantic identity on the part of the suicidal individuals would reflect their inability to discriminate between these concepts. However, it was found that the suicidal individuals differentiated between life and death to a significantly greater degree than did the comparison groups. It may be that suicidal decisions are based more on being confronted by definite clear alternative states of existence than by confusion between them.", "contents": "The semantic perception of life, death and suicide. Gathered semantic distance scores between pairs of concepts (life and death, life and suicide, and death and suicide) from suicidal, psychosomatic, and hospitalized patients (N = 45). It was hypothesized that suicidal individuals would show greater semantic identity between these concepts than would the other patients. It was thought that such semantic identity on the part of the other patients. It was thought that such semantic identity on the part of the suicidal individuals would reflect their inability to discriminate between these concepts. However, it was found that the suicidal individuals differentiated between life and death to a significantly greater degree than did the comparison groups. It may be that suicidal decisions are based more on being confronted by definite clear alternative states of existence than by confusion between them.", "PMID": 457882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12952", "title": "Disability payments for psychiatric patients: is patient assessment affected?", "content": "Collected data for 348 veterans who had been patients at a psychiatric hospital: MMPI results, number of days of hospitalization already past when the MMPI was taken, length of the entire hospitalization during which the MMPI was taken are amount of disability payment at the time of the MMPI, and number of hospitalizations to date. The amount of disability payments was correlated significantly with the MMPI scales associated with psychosis. Veterans who were not receiving disability payments but who later obtained payments appeared more severely psychiatric on the MMPI than others without payments, but were less willing to report their strengths. Those who received only small payments failed to report improvement in the early part of hospitalization and were hospitalized disproportionately to their symptoms, unlike those with maximum payments or rejected claims for payments. It is concluded that patients eligible for larges payments may alter their self reports, but that disability payments nonetheless are awarded only in proportion to actual impairment.", "contents": "Disability payments for psychiatric patients: is patient assessment affected? Collected data for 348 veterans who had been patients at a psychiatric hospital: MMPI results, number of days of hospitalization already past when the MMPI was taken, length of the entire hospitalization during which the MMPI was taken are amount of disability payment at the time of the MMPI, and number of hospitalizations to date. The amount of disability payments was correlated significantly with the MMPI scales associated with psychosis. Veterans who were not receiving disability payments but who later obtained payments appeared more severely psychiatric on the MMPI than others without payments, but were less willing to report their strengths. Those who received only small payments failed to report improvement in the early part of hospitalization and were hospitalized disproportionately to their symptoms, unlike those with maximum payments or rejected claims for payments. It is concluded that patients eligible for larges payments may alter their self reports, but that disability payments nonetheless are awarded only in proportion to actual impairment.", "PMID": 457883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12953", "title": "Imagery in the associative learning of schizophrenics.", "content": "The present experiment is similar to Bower's (1970) study on imagery as a relational organizer in paired-associate (PA) learning with normals. Three groups of 20 schizophrenic patients learned three different lists of 30 word-word paired-associates, which used either interactive imagery, separation imagery, or rote repetition encoding. Ss were tested on stimulus recognition and paired-associate recall, given recognition. Differences in stimulus recognition and paired-associate recall were not significant across the three encoding methods. Results suggest that schizophrenics are unable to benefit from imaginal cues to facilitate learning in a manner similar to normals. These results are interpreted as providing additional support for the notion that the schizophrenics' cognitive deficit is associated with the relational organizing process of learning.", "contents": "Imagery in the associative learning of schizophrenics. The present experiment is similar to Bower's (1970) study on imagery as a relational organizer in paired-associate (PA) learning with normals. Three groups of 20 schizophrenic patients learned three different lists of 30 word-word paired-associates, which used either interactive imagery, separation imagery, or rote repetition encoding. Ss were tested on stimulus recognition and paired-associate recall, given recognition. Differences in stimulus recognition and paired-associate recall were not significant across the three encoding methods. Results suggest that schizophrenics are unable to benefit from imaginal cues to facilitate learning in a manner similar to normals. These results are interpreted as providing additional support for the notion that the schizophrenics' cognitive deficit is associated with the relational organizing process of learning.", "PMID": 457884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12954", "title": "Comparison of process-reactive measures in schizophrenia.", "content": "Studied 12 measures of process-reactive schizophrenia to determine their relative effectiveness in predicting outcome defined as symptomatic improvement. Each patient (N = 144) was rated on the process-reactive measures and at 3- and 6-month intervals on the Present State Examination to evaluate symptom change. Major findings were that the Ego-Strength, Stage of Illness, Kanto, Langfeldt, paranoid and chronicity criteria failed to predict outcome successfully. The first four criteria do not appear to be suitable process-reactive measures when the distinction is based on symptom change. However, paranoid-nonparanoid and chronic-acute criteria merit further investigation. The Ullmann-Giovannoni, Social Competence, Phillips scales, and marital status predicted outcome accurately at both 3- and 6-month evaluations. The Philips scale was the single best predictor of outcome at 3 months, while marital status was the best at 6 months. Overall, the Phillips scale was the most powerful and useful predictor of outcome.", "contents": "Comparison of process-reactive measures in schizophrenia. Studied 12 measures of process-reactive schizophrenia to determine their relative effectiveness in predicting outcome defined as symptomatic improvement. Each patient (N = 144) was rated on the process-reactive measures and at 3- and 6-month intervals on the Present State Examination to evaluate symptom change. Major findings were that the Ego-Strength, Stage of Illness, Kanto, Langfeldt, paranoid and chronicity criteria failed to predict outcome successfully. The first four criteria do not appear to be suitable process-reactive measures when the distinction is based on symptom change. However, paranoid-nonparanoid and chronic-acute criteria merit further investigation. The Ullmann-Giovannoni, Social Competence, Phillips scales, and marital status predicted outcome accurately at both 3- and 6-month evaluations. The Philips scale was the single best predictor of outcome at 3 months, while marital status was the best at 6 months. Overall, the Phillips scale was the most powerful and useful predictor of outcome.", "PMID": 457885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12955", "title": "The effects of ego-involvement and task difficulty on actual and perceived performance of depressed college students.", "content": "Determined whether situational manipulations of personal investment/threat influence the actual and perceived performance of depressed college students on a problem-solving task. Ss were 48 undergraduate students selected on the basis of scores on the MMPI D-scale. Ss within each level of depression were assigned randomly to either ego-involvement or task-involvement conditions. Involvement was manipulated through (a) instructions given to Ss; (b) method of data identification used; and (c) E interaction with a confederate who posed as a S. Within each condition of involvement, Ss were assigned randomly to unscramble either four- or six-letter anagrams. Results showed that in the difficult task-ego-involvement condition, the high depressed Ss made significantly more negative subjective appraisals of their performance than did the low depressed. These groups did not differ from each other under other conditions. It was concluded that depressives are most likely to evaluate negatively their performance in situations that present a challenge and/or threat to them and in which they may have some personal investment.", "contents": "The effects of ego-involvement and task difficulty on actual and perceived performance of depressed college students. Determined whether situational manipulations of personal investment/threat influence the actual and perceived performance of depressed college students on a problem-solving task. Ss were 48 undergraduate students selected on the basis of scores on the MMPI D-scale. Ss within each level of depression were assigned randomly to either ego-involvement or task-involvement conditions. Involvement was manipulated through (a) instructions given to Ss; (b) method of data identification used; and (c) E interaction with a confederate who posed as a S. Within each condition of involvement, Ss were assigned randomly to unscramble either four- or six-letter anagrams. Results showed that in the difficult task-ego-involvement condition, the high depressed Ss made significantly more negative subjective appraisals of their performance than did the low depressed. These groups did not differ from each other under other conditions. It was concluded that depressives are most likely to evaluate negatively their performance in situations that present a challenge and/or threat to them and in which they may have some personal investment.", "PMID": 457886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12956", "title": "Randomness and the \"streaking\" phenomenon: attentional anomalies in performance on the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking (WIST).", "content": "Examined in detail the performance of 36 hospitalized male schizophrenics on the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking (WIST). Results indicated two interesting phenomena. First, the performance of patients with the highest level of cognitive deficit approached a random level of responding with respect to both the type of error made and the propensity to improve after an error. Second, a subgroup of these highly impaired Ss, identified as \"streakers,\" displayed periods of virtually error-free responding, interspersed with periods of extremely impaired performance. The streaking phenomenon, as well as the tendency toward randomness, was discussed in terms of attentional anomalies.", "contents": "Randomness and the \"streaking\" phenomenon: attentional anomalies in performance on the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking (WIST). Examined in detail the performance of 36 hospitalized male schizophrenics on the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking (WIST). Results indicated two interesting phenomena. First, the performance of patients with the highest level of cognitive deficit approached a random level of responding with respect to both the type of error made and the propensity to improve after an error. Second, a subgroup of these highly impaired Ss, identified as \"streakers,\" displayed periods of virtually error-free responding, interspersed with periods of extremely impaired performance. The streaking phenomenon, as well as the tendency toward randomness, was discussed in terms of attentional anomalies.", "PMID": 457887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12957", "title": "Aspects of personality associated with irregular sleep habits in young adults.", "content": "Studied psychological correlates of irregularity in chronic sleep routines. The California Psychological Inventory (CPI) and Cornell Medical Index (CMI) were administered to two groups of 18 male university students who were categorized as either irregular sleepers or control Ss. The control group was composed of persons who habitually slept from 12-8:00 A.M. Irregular sleepers were defined as those whose retiring and awakening times continuously varied by about 2 to 4 hours. Control Ss scored significantly higher than the irregular group on the CPI scales of Do (dominance), Sy (sociability), Sa (self-acceptance), Sc (self-control), Ac (achievement via conformance), and Ie (intellectual efficiency), but lower on the Fx (flexibility) scale. There were no significant differences between the groups in scores on the CMI or average sleep length recorded over 2 weeks. The present findings indicate that in young adults, personality functioning is related more closely to the regularity of nocturnal sleep routines than to differences in chronic sleep duration. It is postulated that stable or irregular sleeping patterns are largely dependent factors not only of the psychological characteristics that distinguished the groups, but as yet unspecified constitutional and sociocultural antecedents of the human sleep response.", "contents": "Aspects of personality associated with irregular sleep habits in young adults. Studied psychological correlates of irregularity in chronic sleep routines. The California Psychological Inventory (CPI) and Cornell Medical Index (CMI) were administered to two groups of 18 male university students who were categorized as either irregular sleepers or control Ss. The control group was composed of persons who habitually slept from 12-8:00 A.M. Irregular sleepers were defined as those whose retiring and awakening times continuously varied by about 2 to 4 hours. Control Ss scored significantly higher than the irregular group on the CPI scales of Do (dominance), Sy (sociability), Sa (self-acceptance), Sc (self-control), Ac (achievement via conformance), and Ie (intellectual efficiency), but lower on the Fx (flexibility) scale. There were no significant differences between the groups in scores on the CMI or average sleep length recorded over 2 weeks. The present findings indicate that in young adults, personality functioning is related more closely to the regularity of nocturnal sleep routines than to differences in chronic sleep duration. It is postulated that stable or irregular sleeping patterns are largely dependent factors not only of the psychological characteristics that distinguished the groups, but as yet unspecified constitutional and sociocultural antecedents of the human sleep response.", "PMID": 457888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12958", "title": "Locus of control and trust in parents: a preliminary study.", "content": "Compared 50 undergraduates (7 males, 43 females) as the upper and lower third Internal and External locus of control groups, based on I-E scores, with respect to scores on separate subscales of trust in father (FT), mother (MT), and both parents (PT). While the results confirmed previous findings that internality was related positively to trust in others, the present study found significantly greater trust in father than in mother. These differential findings were interpreted as having relevance to studies of behavioral referents of locus of control as well as implications for parent-child antecedent relationships.", "contents": "Locus of control and trust in parents: a preliminary study. Compared 50 undergraduates (7 males, 43 females) as the upper and lower third Internal and External locus of control groups, based on I-E scores, with respect to scores on separate subscales of trust in father (FT), mother (MT), and both parents (PT). While the results confirmed previous findings that internality was related positively to trust in others, the present study found significantly greater trust in father than in mother. These differential findings were interpreted as having relevance to studies of behavioral referents of locus of control as well as implications for parent-child antecedent relationships.", "PMID": 457889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12959", "title": "Factor M as a correlate of physical fitness: imagination or just more energy.", "content": "Determined whether 16PF scale scores could contribute significantly to the prediction of a measure of fitness. Sixty-three firemen from a large metropolitan area in the Southeast were Ss. Factor M contributed significantly to the prediction of one measure of fitness (i.e., treadmill time). The assumption cited in the literature that Factor M reflects \"imagination\" in individuals who score high on fitness measures was questioned. The article concluded that Cattell's earlier work relating high Factor M to high energy and endurance suggests a more logical interpretation of Factor M vis \u00e0 vis measures of fitness.", "contents": "Factor M as a correlate of physical fitness: imagination or just more energy. Determined whether 16PF scale scores could contribute significantly to the prediction of a measure of fitness. Sixty-three firemen from a large metropolitan area in the Southeast were Ss. Factor M contributed significantly to the prediction of one measure of fitness (i.e., treadmill time). The assumption cited in the literature that Factor M reflects \"imagination\" in individuals who score high on fitness measures was questioned. The article concluded that Cattell's earlier work relating high Factor M to high energy and endurance suggests a more logical interpretation of Factor M vis \u00e0 vis measures of fitness.", "PMID": 457890} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12960", "title": "Psychologic characteristics of patients with female urethral syndrome.", "content": "Numerous investigations have been conducted in an effort to determine the cause of the female urethral syndrome. Bacterial and anatomic causes rarely have been identified. Using the MMPI, we evaluated 56 women with thus syndrome and compared them with control patients of similar ages. Statistically significant increases in the F, hysteria, hypochondriasis, and schizophrenia scales were found in the patients with the female urethral syndrome. These scores suggest the presence of a psychophysiologic process in these patients.", "contents": "Psychologic characteristics of patients with female urethral syndrome. Numerous investigations have been conducted in an effort to determine the cause of the female urethral syndrome. Bacterial and anatomic causes rarely have been identified. Using the MMPI, we evaluated 56 women with thus syndrome and compared them with control patients of similar ages. Statistically significant increases in the F, hysteria, hypochondriasis, and schizophrenia scales were found in the patients with the female urethral syndrome. These scores suggest the presence of a psychophysiologic process in these patients.", "PMID": 457891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12961", "title": "Effects of structural integration on state-trait anxiety.", "content": "Studied the effects of the intervention technique of Structural Integration on state-trait anxiety. Matched pairs of Ss were assigned randomly to either the experimental (received rolfing) or control group (N = 48). State anxiety questionnaires were administered beofre rolfing and then again in 5 weeks after rolfing. Results indicated that rolfing caused a decrease in state anxiety when compared to the control group. Results were discussed in terms of the release of emotional tension stored up in the muscles due to Structural Integration.", "contents": "Effects of structural integration on state-trait anxiety. Studied the effects of the intervention technique of Structural Integration on state-trait anxiety. Matched pairs of Ss were assigned randomly to either the experimental (received rolfing) or control group (N = 48). State anxiety questionnaires were administered beofre rolfing and then again in 5 weeks after rolfing. Results indicated that rolfing caused a decrease in state anxiety when compared to the control group. Results were discussed in terms of the release of emotional tension stored up in the muscles due to Structural Integration.", "PMID": 457892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12962", "title": "A factor analysis of the Beck Depression Inventory in a mildly depressed population.", "content": "Investigated a factor analysis of the responses of mildly depressed college students to the items of the Beck Depression Inventory (N = 446). A varimax rotation of a principal-axis factor analysis yielded only one well-defined factor, \"Hopelessness,\" which was characterized by sadness, pessimism, dissatisfaction and suicidal thoughts. The depression syndrome for this mildly depressed group was unlike syndromes previously reported for a psychiatric population.", "contents": "A factor analysis of the Beck Depression Inventory in a mildly depressed population. Investigated a factor analysis of the responses of mildly depressed college students to the items of the Beck Depression Inventory (N = 446). A varimax rotation of a principal-axis factor analysis yielded only one well-defined factor, \"Hopelessness,\" which was characterized by sadness, pessimism, dissatisfaction and suicidal thoughts. The depression syndrome for this mildly depressed group was unlike syndromes previously reported for a psychiatric population.", "PMID": 457893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12963", "title": "A neuropsychological Key approach to diagnosis and remediation of learning disabilities.", "content": "Described a new approach in reaching clinical decisions with regard to learning disabled children. The method emphasizes a systematic deductive procedure and is presented in the form of a Key. The rationale for the diagnostic and remedial decisions reached at every node of the Key is explained and is supported by data derived from clinical and experimental studies in psychology and neurology.", "contents": "A neuropsychological Key approach to diagnosis and remediation of learning disabilities. Described a new approach in reaching clinical decisions with regard to learning disabled children. The method emphasizes a systematic deductive procedure and is presented in the form of a Key. The rationale for the diagnostic and remedial decisions reached at every node of the Key is explained and is supported by data derived from clinical and experimental studies in psychology and neurology.", "PMID": 457894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12964", "title": "The relationship between intelligence and verbal and spatial memory.", "content": "Administered the Logical Memory Test (LM) and the Rey-Osterreith Test (RO), which have been assumed to pertain to verbal and spatial cognitive functioning, to 150 Ss referred for neuropsychological screening. Ss also were administered the short version of the WAIS, plus Digit Span. It was found that LM did relate more to verbal IQ than to spatial IQ and vice-versa for RO. It was not clear exactly what aspect of cognitive functioning Digit Span was tapping. The clinical implications of the study are that LM scores must be viewed in the light of verbal IQ level, and RO scores interpreted in relation to both spatial IQ and age. Data are presented that can be used for the statistical interpretation of an individual case test scores.", "contents": "The relationship between intelligence and verbal and spatial memory. Administered the Logical Memory Test (LM) and the Rey-Osterreith Test (RO), which have been assumed to pertain to verbal and spatial cognitive functioning, to 150 Ss referred for neuropsychological screening. Ss also were administered the short version of the WAIS, plus Digit Span. It was found that LM did relate more to verbal IQ than to spatial IQ and vice-versa for RO. It was not clear exactly what aspect of cognitive functioning Digit Span was tapping. The clinical implications of the study are that LM scores must be viewed in the light of verbal IQ level, and RO scores interpreted in relation to both spatial IQ and age. Data are presented that can be used for the statistical interpretation of an individual case test scores.", "PMID": 457895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12965", "title": "Factor analysis of breadth and depth dimensions on Wechsler's Similarities and Vocabulary Subscales.", "content": "Previous research (Bailey, Lazar, & Edinger, 1977) has indicated the presence of Breadth and Depth factors on the Similarities subscale of the WAIS. The present study (N = 102) analyzed these two factors further, by using measures of Breadth and Depth on both the Similarities and Vocabulary subscales. Several other measures also were studied, including a Comprehension index, SAT scores, and GPA. Results of a factor analysis with oblique rotation revealed distinct Breadth and Depth factors, which strongly supported the theoretical rationale of the study. The Breadth factor seems to reflect broad-range skills of the type required on conventional IQ tests, while the Depth factor is less theoretically clear. It is suggested that Depth involves an effort component as well as ability because the S is required to provide more than a single correct answer for a given item.", "contents": "Factor analysis of breadth and depth dimensions on Wechsler's Similarities and Vocabulary Subscales. Previous research (Bailey, Lazar, & Edinger, 1977) has indicated the presence of Breadth and Depth factors on the Similarities subscale of the WAIS. The present study (N = 102) analyzed these two factors further, by using measures of Breadth and Depth on both the Similarities and Vocabulary subscales. Several other measures also were studied, including a Comprehension index, SAT scores, and GPA. Results of a factor analysis with oblique rotation revealed distinct Breadth and Depth factors, which strongly supported the theoretical rationale of the study. The Breadth factor seems to reflect broad-range skills of the type required on conventional IQ tests, while the Depth factor is less theoretically clear. It is suggested that Depth involves an effort component as well as ability because the S is required to provide more than a single correct answer for a given item.", "PMID": 457896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12966", "title": "An investigative study of the Bender-Gestalt: clinical validation of its use with a reading disabled population.", "content": "Investigated usefulness of the Bender-Gestalt in differentiating between primary and secondary reading disability. Research with 50 reading disabled Ss was carried out. The Ss were classified as having a primary or secondary reading disability according to selected criteria; then their Bender protocols were scored. It was hypothesized that developmental scores would differentiate the two diagnostic groups. A second hypothesis was that specific signs would differentiate between primary and secondary reading disabled children. The results supported the latter hypothesis, but not the former. Results also showed that those in the primary group were more reading retarded than secondary reading disability Ss and that Bender-Gestalt scores are not significantly related to reading level in such a group of reading disabled children.", "contents": "An investigative study of the Bender-Gestalt: clinical validation of its use with a reading disabled population. Investigated usefulness of the Bender-Gestalt in differentiating between primary and secondary reading disability. Research with 50 reading disabled Ss was carried out. The Ss were classified as having a primary or secondary reading disability according to selected criteria; then their Bender protocols were scored. It was hypothesized that developmental scores would differentiate the two diagnostic groups. A second hypothesis was that specific signs would differentiate between primary and secondary reading disabled children. The results supported the latter hypothesis, but not the former. Results also showed that those in the primary group were more reading retarded than secondary reading disability Ss and that Bender-Gestalt scores are not significantly related to reading level in such a group of reading disabled children.", "PMID": 457897} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12967", "title": "Test-retest gains in WAIS scores after four retest intervals.", "content": "Administered the WAIS to 76 male college students on two occasions with a retest interval of either 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, or 4 months. Essentially all Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale IQs increased significantly on the retest. Increases in Verbal IQ for the four time intervals were 4.7, 1.8, 2.3, and .8 IQ points, respectively; the latter was the only nonsignificant gain found. The Performance IQ increased by 11.4, 9.8, 8.7, and 8.0 points for each subsequent time period, and the Full Scale IQ increased by 8.0, 5.7, 5.4, and 4.2 points for each respective time period. Test-retest correlations for the four intervals ranged from .91 to .72 for the Verbal IQ, .87 to .79 for the Performance IQ, and .94 to .74 for the Full Scale IQ. The results were pitted against similar test-retest studies, and clinical and research implications were discussed.", "contents": "Test-retest gains in WAIS scores after four retest intervals. Administered the WAIS to 76 male college students on two occasions with a retest interval of either 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, or 4 months. Essentially all Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale IQs increased significantly on the retest. Increases in Verbal IQ for the four time intervals were 4.7, 1.8, 2.3, and .8 IQ points, respectively; the latter was the only nonsignificant gain found. The Performance IQ increased by 11.4, 9.8, 8.7, and 8.0 points for each subsequent time period, and the Full Scale IQ increased by 8.0, 5.7, 5.4, and 4.2 points for each respective time period. Test-retest correlations for the four intervals ranged from .91 to .72 for the Verbal IQ, .87 to .79 for the Performance IQ, and .94 to .74 for the Full Scale IQ. The results were pitted against similar test-retest studies, and clinical and research implications were discussed.", "PMID": 457898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12968", "title": "Level and variability of performance on neuropsychological tests.", "content": "Compared non-specific variability across subtests and overall level of performance on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Halstead-Reitan Battery (HRB) for normal, schizophrenic, acute and chronic brain-damaged Ss. Both variability and level of performance measures for each of the two test batteries significantly distinguished normal from abnormal Ss, but the HRB measures were more sensitive. Intra-S variability across subtests had a significant negative correlation with level of performance on the HRB, but not on the WAIS. This correlation could not be accounted for fully by a ceiling effect and was thought to represent in part a characteristic feature of ts performance on the HRB. While WAIS variability appeared to be independent of level of performance, it was not much help in differentiating between the four S groups. It was concluded that non-specific variability across subtests is not a helpful independent measure of neuropsychological function on the two batteries studied.", "contents": "Level and variability of performance on neuropsychological tests. Compared non-specific variability across subtests and overall level of performance on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Halstead-Reitan Battery (HRB) for normal, schizophrenic, acute and chronic brain-damaged Ss. Both variability and level of performance measures for each of the two test batteries significantly distinguished normal from abnormal Ss, but the HRB measures were more sensitive. Intra-S variability across subtests had a significant negative correlation with level of performance on the HRB, but not on the WAIS. This correlation could not be accounted for fully by a ceiling effect and was thought to represent in part a characteristic feature of ts performance on the HRB. While WAIS variability appeared to be independent of level of performance, it was not much help in differentiating between the four S groups. It was concluded that non-specific variability across subtests is not a helpful independent measure of neuropsychological function on the two batteries studied.", "PMID": 457899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12969", "title": "Correlates of alpha, beta and theta wave production.", "content": "Studied the correlations of alpha, beta and theta time densities with psychological and psychophysiological variables in a psychiatric population (N = 76). The correlations of the EEG variables with measures of adjustment were small and barely exceeded chance expectations. Alpha and beta were correlated positively with pain threshold, while beta was related inversely to blood pressure. Theta was correlated positively with blood pressure and negatively with pulse rate. The implications of these findings for EEG biofeedback treatment were discussed.", "contents": "Correlates of alpha, beta and theta wave production. Studied the correlations of alpha, beta and theta time densities with psychological and psychophysiological variables in a psychiatric population (N = 76). The correlations of the EEG variables with measures of adjustment were small and barely exceeded chance expectations. Alpha and beta were correlated positively with pain threshold, while beta was related inversely to blood pressure. Theta was correlated positively with blood pressure and negatively with pulse rate. The implications of these findings for EEG biofeedback treatment were discussed.", "PMID": 457900} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12970", "title": "The effectiveness of the psychodramatic double method, the reflection method, and lecturing in the training of empathy.", "content": "Studied the effectiveness of the psychodramatic Double method, the Reflection method, and the Lecture method in improving empathic ability. Sixty-four high school sophomores were assigned randomly to four groups of 16 Ss, 8 males and 8 females, each. Three groups received one of the three training methods and the fourth served as no-training control. The Ss' level of empathy, before and after the training, was measured by a modified version of the Accurate Empathic Scale. The results showed that all three training methods produced significant improvements compared with the control group. The effect of the Double method was significantly greater than that of the other two methods. The Reflection method ranked second, yet was not significantly better than the Lecture method. Females scored higher than males both before and after the training, but there was no significant sex and training method interaction effect.", "contents": "The effectiveness of the psychodramatic double method, the reflection method, and lecturing in the training of empathy. Studied the effectiveness of the psychodramatic Double method, the Reflection method, and the Lecture method in improving empathic ability. Sixty-four high school sophomores were assigned randomly to four groups of 16 Ss, 8 males and 8 females, each. Three groups received one of the three training methods and the fourth served as no-training control. The Ss' level of empathy, before and after the training, was measured by a modified version of the Accurate Empathic Scale. The results showed that all three training methods produced significant improvements compared with the control group. The effect of the Double method was significantly greater than that of the other two methods. The Reflection method ranked second, yet was not significantly better than the Lecture method. Females scored higher than males both before and after the training, but there was no significant sex and training method interaction effect.", "PMID": 457901} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12971", "title": "Measurement of assertive behavior: construct and predictive validity of self-report, role-playing, and in-vivo measures.", "content": "Examined the predictive validity and construct equivalence of the three major procedures used to measure assertive behavior: Self-report, behavioral role-playing, and in-vivo assessment. Seventy-five Ss, who spanned the range of assertiveness, completed two self-report measures of assertiveness, the Rathus Assertiveness Scale (RAS) and the College Self-Expression Scale (CSES); two scales from the Endler S-R Inventory of General Trait Anxiousness, the interpersonal and general anxiety scales; eight role-playing situations that involved the expression of positive and negative assertiveness; and a telephone in-vivo task. In general, the study revealed the following: (1) assertiveness measures are task-dependent in that there was more overlap within task than between tasks; (2) there is a moderate degree of correspondence between self-report and role-playing measures, although this was true only for negative assertion; (3) positive and negative assertion do not appear to have the same topography of responding; and (4) there appears to be no consistent relationship between the in-vivo measure and any other type of assertiveness measure.", "contents": "Measurement of assertive behavior: construct and predictive validity of self-report, role-playing, and in-vivo measures. Examined the predictive validity and construct equivalence of the three major procedures used to measure assertive behavior: Self-report, behavioral role-playing, and in-vivo assessment. Seventy-five Ss, who spanned the range of assertiveness, completed two self-report measures of assertiveness, the Rathus Assertiveness Scale (RAS) and the College Self-Expression Scale (CSES); two scales from the Endler S-R Inventory of General Trait Anxiousness, the interpersonal and general anxiety scales; eight role-playing situations that involved the expression of positive and negative assertiveness; and a telephone in-vivo task. In general, the study revealed the following: (1) assertiveness measures are task-dependent in that there was more overlap within task than between tasks; (2) there is a moderate degree of correspondence between self-report and role-playing measures, although this was true only for negative assertion; (3) positive and negative assertion do not appear to have the same topography of responding; and (4) there appears to be no consistent relationship between the in-vivo measure and any other type of assertiveness measure.", "PMID": 457902} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12972", "title": "Verbal-nonverbal congruence in normal and delinquent families.", "content": "Assessed affect expression for both normal and delinquent families (N = 5 families) in three communication channels (verbal, tonal and facial); group differences in channel inconsistency were determined. Interactions that involved mother-father, mother-son, and father-son were assessed independently. Analysis of variance procedures yielded a number of group differences in total affect expression and verbal-nonverbal inconsistency. When co-variance procedures controlled for demographic differences, however, reliable differences between normal and delinquent families no longer obtained. Findings are discussed in terms of results from previous encoding studies and the relationships among affect expression, diagnostic status, and demographic variations.", "contents": "Verbal-nonverbal congruence in normal and delinquent families. Assessed affect expression for both normal and delinquent families (N = 5 families) in three communication channels (verbal, tonal and facial); group differences in channel inconsistency were determined. Interactions that involved mother-father, mother-son, and father-son were assessed independently. Analysis of variance procedures yielded a number of group differences in total affect expression and verbal-nonverbal inconsistency. When co-variance procedures controlled for demographic differences, however, reliable differences between normal and delinquent families no longer obtained. Findings are discussed in terms of results from previous encoding studies and the relationships among affect expression, diagnostic status, and demographic variations.", "PMID": 457903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12973", "title": "Learned helplessness and depression among Israeli women.", "content": "Depressed and nondepressed Ss were exposed to either inescapable noise or no noise conditions in an attempt to replicate a typical learned helplessness study (Miller & Seligman, 1975) with Israeli student nurses. The inescapable noise was presented either as a personally important task or as an unimportant task. When later tested on a series of 20 patterned anagrams, no performance differences were found between depressed and nondepressed Ss as was found in previous studies, nor did the importance manipulation affect performance. Within the depressed group only, it was found that the more the Ss believed they had control over the noise, the better was their performance in the anagrams. Similarly, only among the depressed was the rated aversiveness of the noise positively related to anagram performance. Depressed were only able to assess accurately the number of failures on the anagrams, while nondepressed did equally well in assessing both positive and negative aspects of their performance. The results are discussed in terms of Seligman's learned helplessness model of depression and Beck's cognitive model of depression.", "contents": "Learned helplessness and depression among Israeli women. Depressed and nondepressed Ss were exposed to either inescapable noise or no noise conditions in an attempt to replicate a typical learned helplessness study (Miller & Seligman, 1975) with Israeli student nurses. The inescapable noise was presented either as a personally important task or as an unimportant task. When later tested on a series of 20 patterned anagrams, no performance differences were found between depressed and nondepressed Ss as was found in previous studies, nor did the importance manipulation affect performance. Within the depressed group only, it was found that the more the Ss believed they had control over the noise, the better was their performance in the anagrams. Similarly, only among the depressed was the rated aversiveness of the noise positively related to anagram performance. Depressed were only able to assess accurately the number of failures on the anagrams, while nondepressed did equally well in assessing both positive and negative aspects of their performance. The results are discussed in terms of Seligman's learned helplessness model of depression and Beck's cognitive model of depression.", "PMID": 457904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12974", "title": "Conjugate lateral eye movements of \"repressors\" and \"sensitizers\" under threat and non-threat conditions.", "content": "Investigated the relationship between repression-sensitization and conjugate lateral eye movement (CLEM) tendencies under ego-threat and control conditions. Fifty-one right-handed college males were separated into repressors, sensitizers, or a middle group and were interviewed under a condition intended to produce ego-threat or a neutral condition. Bland and mildly intimate questions were asked of all Ss. Contrary to expectation, repression-sensitization and threat condition were unrelated to eye movement direction. A significant increase in left eye movement was found in response to mildly intimate questions, compared to neutral questions. Results are discussed with reference to earlier research on CLEM and to the cerebral hemispheric dominance theory of the effect.", "contents": "Conjugate lateral eye movements of \"repressors\" and \"sensitizers\" under threat and non-threat conditions. Investigated the relationship between repression-sensitization and conjugate lateral eye movement (CLEM) tendencies under ego-threat and control conditions. Fifty-one right-handed college males were separated into repressors, sensitizers, or a middle group and were interviewed under a condition intended to produce ego-threat or a neutral condition. Bland and mildly intimate questions were asked of all Ss. Contrary to expectation, repression-sensitization and threat condition were unrelated to eye movement direction. A significant increase in left eye movement was found in response to mildly intimate questions, compared to neutral questions. Results are discussed with reference to earlier research on CLEM and to the cerebral hemispheric dominance theory of the effect.", "PMID": 457905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12975", "title": "Incentive effects of choosing a therapist.", "content": "Investigated the effects of offering clients (N = 55) a choice of therapeutic style on show rate and reactions to the initial interview. Individuals who called for an appointment were assigned randomly to Choice and Attention-Control conditions. Choice Ss were informed that they would be assigned to a therapist who identified with one of two descriptions of therapy styles from which they could choose. Based on this choice, these persons were scheduled with the next therapist in line who had identified him/herself with the selected style. Attention-Control clients were informed about the range of services available at the clinic and paired with a therapist regardless of style on the usual rotating basis. A significantly higher proportion of Choice than Attention-Control Ss kept their schedules appointments. However, no significant differences were found on client and therapist evaluations of the initial interview.", "contents": "Incentive effects of choosing a therapist. Investigated the effects of offering clients (N = 55) a choice of therapeutic style on show rate and reactions to the initial interview. Individuals who called for an appointment were assigned randomly to Choice and Attention-Control conditions. Choice Ss were informed that they would be assigned to a therapist who identified with one of two descriptions of therapy styles from which they could choose. Based on this choice, these persons were scheduled with the next therapist in line who had identified him/herself with the selected style. Attention-Control clients were informed about the range of services available at the clinic and paired with a therapist regardless of style on the usual rotating basis. A significantly higher proportion of Choice than Attention-Control Ss kept their schedules appointments. However, no significant differences were found on client and therapist evaluations of the initial interview.", "PMID": 457906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12976", "title": "Factors that influence nurses' attitudes toward psychiatric patients.", "content": "Investigated attitudes of nursing staff to their patients and their treatment, using the Ellsworth Attitude Scale and three opinion statements derived from a preliminary attitude survey. Those who were most pessimistic about the extent to which patients were able to participate in treatment tended to be of lower rank and training and also scored high on the attitude of Restrictive Control and low on that of Accountability. Those who were pessimistic about the therapeutic efficacy of the hospital tended to be younger and scored higher on Protective Benevolence and lower on Accountability attitudes. Those who scored high on Authoritarianism were of significantly lower rank and training, and the opposite obtained for those who scored high on Accountability. It is suggested that the attitude of Protective Benevolence is closer to Restrictive Control than to Accountability and that this attitude should not be considered a move toward enlightened thinking; furthermore, that the prevalence of custodial and pessimistic views among the lower ranking and younger nursing staff may be due to lack of opportunity for and support in taking therapeutic responsibility.", "contents": "Factors that influence nurses' attitudes toward psychiatric patients. Investigated attitudes of nursing staff to their patients and their treatment, using the Ellsworth Attitude Scale and three opinion statements derived from a preliminary attitude survey. Those who were most pessimistic about the extent to which patients were able to participate in treatment tended to be of lower rank and training and also scored high on the attitude of Restrictive Control and low on that of Accountability. Those who were pessimistic about the therapeutic efficacy of the hospital tended to be younger and scored higher on Protective Benevolence and lower on Accountability attitudes. Those who scored high on Authoritarianism were of significantly lower rank and training, and the opposite obtained for those who scored high on Accountability. It is suggested that the attitude of Protective Benevolence is closer to Restrictive Control than to Accountability and that this attitude should not be considered a move toward enlightened thinking; furthermore, that the prevalence of custodial and pessimistic views among the lower ranking and younger nursing staff may be due to lack of opportunity for and support in taking therapeutic responsibility.", "PMID": 457907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12977", "title": "Staff conceptions of patients' attitudes toward mental disorder and hospitalization as compared to patients' and staff's actual attitudes.", "content": "Compared ward personnel's (N = 25) conceptions of their patients' attitudes toward mental disorder and hospital atmosphere to the patients' (N = 50) and the personnel's actual attitudes by use of the CPH Factor Scale. Personnel completed the scale as (1) they themselves viewed the hospital; and (2) as they thought their patients viewed it. Patients' views also were obtained. Personnel viewed the hospital in \"positive mental health\" terms and considered the patients to be significantly less so. In actually, patients were less positive than personnel, but significantly less extreme than they were considered to be by the personnel. This approach suggests a means to provide an index discrepancy in attitude between patient and personnel. Identifying these descrepancies can allow for correction and improved understanding empathy, and patient care.", "contents": "Staff conceptions of patients' attitudes toward mental disorder and hospitalization as compared to patients' and staff's actual attitudes. Compared ward personnel's (N = 25) conceptions of their patients' attitudes toward mental disorder and hospital atmosphere to the patients' (N = 50) and the personnel's actual attitudes by use of the CPH Factor Scale. Personnel completed the scale as (1) they themselves viewed the hospital; and (2) as they thought their patients viewed it. Patients' views also were obtained. Personnel viewed the hospital in \"positive mental health\" terms and considered the patients to be significantly less so. In actually, patients were less positive than personnel, but significantly less extreme than they were considered to be by the personnel. This approach suggests a means to provide an index discrepancy in attitude between patient and personnel. Identifying these descrepancies can allow for correction and improved understanding empathy, and patient care.", "PMID": 457908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12978", "title": "The performance of neurologically impaired and normal Ss on four screening techniques.", "content": "Administered four screening instruments--Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Form A (PPVT-A), Riley Preschool Developmental Screening Inventory-Designs (RPDD), Riley Make-A-Boy (RMB) and the McCarthy Scales of Children's Ability Designs (MSCD)--to 23 normal children with no evidence of neurological impairment and 23 neurologically impaired children under 6 years of age. The children were matched for age and sex and were from a day-care program for working parents and a therapeutic preschool program, respectively. Significant differences were found between the two groups on all instruments. The highest positive correlation for the impaired group was between the PPVT-A and the RPDD, while for the control group the highest positive correlation was between the RPDD and MSCD.", "contents": "The performance of neurologically impaired and normal Ss on four screening techniques. Administered four screening instruments--Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Form A (PPVT-A), Riley Preschool Developmental Screening Inventory-Designs (RPDD), Riley Make-A-Boy (RMB) and the McCarthy Scales of Children's Ability Designs (MSCD)--to 23 normal children with no evidence of neurological impairment and 23 neurologically impaired children under 6 years of age. The children were matched for age and sex and were from a day-care program for working parents and a therapeutic preschool program, respectively. Significant differences were found between the two groups on all instruments. The highest positive correlation for the impaired group was between the PPVT-A and the RPDD, while for the control group the highest positive correlation was between the RPDD and MSCD.", "PMID": 457909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12979", "title": "The A-B variable and preferred inpatient treatment environment.", "content": "Examined the possibility that college students' status on Whitehorn and Betz' (1954) A-B dimension would be related to their descriptions of the ideal psychiatric inpatient treatment setting. Sixty-one Ss completed the A-B scale, as well as Moos' (1974) Ward Atmosphere Scale-Ideal Form. Analysis demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between A-B status and 5 of the 10 WAS subscales. A and B Ss both differed significantly from a middle group of Ss, but did not differ from one another, in their ward ratings on these subscales. Factor analysis of the Ideal Form ratings replicated Alden's (1977) finding from analysis of Standard Form responses of a high degree of communality between 8 of the 10 WAS subscales.", "contents": "The A-B variable and preferred inpatient treatment environment. Examined the possibility that college students' status on Whitehorn and Betz' (1954) A-B dimension would be related to their descriptions of the ideal psychiatric inpatient treatment setting. Sixty-one Ss completed the A-B scale, as well as Moos' (1974) Ward Atmosphere Scale-Ideal Form. Analysis demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between A-B status and 5 of the 10 WAS subscales. A and B Ss both differed significantly from a middle group of Ss, but did not differ from one another, in their ward ratings on these subscales. Factor analysis of the Ideal Form ratings replicated Alden's (1977) finding from analysis of Standard Form responses of a high degree of communality between 8 of the 10 WAS subscales.", "PMID": 457910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12980", "title": "Concurrent validity of the Missouri Children's Picture Series.", "content": "Administered the Missouri Children's Picture Series, a nonverbal objective test of personality to a group of normal (N = 119) children and a group of institutionalized (N = 77) aggressive children. Several of the test scales differed significantly between the two groups. The test scales of Aggression and Maturity showed the most consistent and largest differences; the institutionalized children scored, as a group, higher on Aggression and lower on Maturity Level. IQ was found to be unrelated to test scores among the normal children, but was related significantly to personality test scores among the institutionalized children.", "contents": "Concurrent validity of the Missouri Children's Picture Series. Administered the Missouri Children's Picture Series, a nonverbal objective test of personality to a group of normal (N = 119) children and a group of institutionalized (N = 77) aggressive children. Several of the test scales differed significantly between the two groups. The test scales of Aggression and Maturity showed the most consistent and largest differences; the institutionalized children scored, as a group, higher on Aggression and lower on Maturity Level. IQ was found to be unrelated to test scores among the normal children, but was related significantly to personality test scores among the institutionalized children.", "PMID": 457911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12981", "title": "Rorschach hostility content and its relation to anxiety, neuroticism and P-E-N measures.", "content": "Assessed the relationships between Rorschach hostility scores and anxiety, neuroticism, overt/covert hostility, intelligence, and Eysenck's Personality Questionnaire. The sample consisted of 200 (100 male, 100 female) Indian undergraduates aged 15 to 20 years. There were some indications that high hostility scores on the Rorschach tended to be worldly wise, covertly hostile, independent, stubborn, and poor fakers. A factor analysis of the intercorrelations showed six interpretable factors: Anxiety, Neuroticism, Body measures. Hostility, Psychoticism and Tender-minded, respectively. Further, it was concluded that Eysenck's Psychoticism is factorially a complex measure and that projective and direct verbal measures of hostility seem to be measuring dissimilar constructs. A few hypotheses for independent verification were proposed.", "contents": "Rorschach hostility content and its relation to anxiety, neuroticism and P-E-N measures. Assessed the relationships between Rorschach hostility scores and anxiety, neuroticism, overt/covert hostility, intelligence, and Eysenck's Personality Questionnaire. The sample consisted of 200 (100 male, 100 female) Indian undergraduates aged 15 to 20 years. There were some indications that high hostility scores on the Rorschach tended to be worldly wise, covertly hostile, independent, stubborn, and poor fakers. A factor analysis of the intercorrelations showed six interpretable factors: Anxiety, Neuroticism, Body measures. Hostility, Psychoticism and Tender-minded, respectively. Further, it was concluded that Eysenck's Psychoticism is factorially a complex measure and that projective and direct verbal measures of hostility seem to be measuring dissimilar constructs. A few hypotheses for independent verification were proposed.", "PMID": 457912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12982", "title": "The personality of alcoholic middle-class women: a comparative study with the MMPI.", "content": "Alcoholic personality patterns have been derived largely from studies of institutionalized lower-class males. To determine whether similar patterns prevail among other alcoholic populations, 30 middle-class, white, married women who were undergoing treatment for alcoholism in a private clinic were compared with 30 nonalcoholic women of similar background, referred for various personality problems. Mean MMPI scores of both groups fell between 40 and 60, and the profiles showed an overall similarity. Alcoholism women scored significantly higher on F, PD and SC, but not on D. Both groups scored lowest on MF. The results show that data derived from institutionalized alcoholics of lower socioeconomic background have only limited applicability to this group.", "contents": "The personality of alcoholic middle-class women: a comparative study with the MMPI. Alcoholic personality patterns have been derived largely from studies of institutionalized lower-class males. To determine whether similar patterns prevail among other alcoholic populations, 30 middle-class, white, married women who were undergoing treatment for alcoholism in a private clinic were compared with 30 nonalcoholic women of similar background, referred for various personality problems. Mean MMPI scores of both groups fell between 40 and 60, and the profiles showed an overall similarity. Alcoholism women scored significantly higher on F, PD and SC, but not on D. Both groups scored lowest on MF. The results show that data derived from institutionalized alcoholics of lower socioeconomic background have only limited applicability to this group.", "PMID": 457913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12983", "title": "Formative program evaluation and milieu therapy with alcohol abusers.", "content": "Evaluated presumably therapeutic components within a therapeutic community in terms of perceived helpfulness by patients and staff of an alcohol treatment unit. Eighteen male patients and 18 staff members participated. A nonparametric statistic was used as an index of treatment philosophy articulation or degree of value-sharing. A core of activities valued congruently by patients and staff was identified.", "contents": "Formative program evaluation and milieu therapy with alcohol abusers. Evaluated presumably therapeutic components within a therapeutic community in terms of perceived helpfulness by patients and staff of an alcohol treatment unit. Eighteen male patients and 18 staff members participated. A nonparametric statistic was used as an index of treatment philosophy articulation or degree of value-sharing. A core of activities valued congruently by patients and staff was identified.", "PMID": 457914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12984", "title": "Fear-induced attitude change as a function of conformity and drinking pattern in alcoholics.", "content": "Investigated the effectiveness of fear arousal for inducing attitude change toward drinking in alcoholics (N = 38). Fear arousal, whereby aversive consequences are associated with some undesirable target behavior, has proved popular and sometimes effective in persuasive attempts designed to induce attitude change. A communication that linked brain damage with excessive drinking was successful in arousing fear in alcoholics and resulted in a more negative attitude toward their own drinking, but did not affect their attitude toward drinking by others. Attitude change was more pronounced in alcoholics who previously had scored high on a conformity task, but was not related to pattern of drinking. Fear arousal may have a place in alcoholism treatment, although attitude change is not necessarily accompanied by changes in behavior.", "contents": "Fear-induced attitude change as a function of conformity and drinking pattern in alcoholics. Investigated the effectiveness of fear arousal for inducing attitude change toward drinking in alcoholics (N = 38). Fear arousal, whereby aversive consequences are associated with some undesirable target behavior, has proved popular and sometimes effective in persuasive attempts designed to induce attitude change. A communication that linked brain damage with excessive drinking was successful in arousing fear in alcoholics and resulted in a more negative attitude toward their own drinking, but did not affect their attitude toward drinking by others. Attitude change was more pronounced in alcoholics who previously had scored high on a conformity task, but was not related to pattern of drinking. Fear arousal may have a place in alcoholism treatment, although attitude change is not necessarily accompanied by changes in behavior.", "PMID": 457915} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12985", "title": "Differentiating methadone outpatients from psychiatric outpatients and normals with the Mini-Mult.", "content": "Investigated whether the Mini-Mult could differentiate outpatient heroin addicts from outpatient psychiatric and normal populations. A multiple discriminant analysis was done with 30 Ss that compared the three groups across the 11 Mini-Mult scales. Significant results were obtained at the .05 level for the following scales: L, F, 1, 2, 3, 4.", "contents": "Differentiating methadone outpatients from psychiatric outpatients and normals with the Mini-Mult. Investigated whether the Mini-Mult could differentiate outpatient heroin addicts from outpatient psychiatric and normal populations. A multiple discriminant analysis was done with 30 Ss that compared the three groups across the 11 Mini-Mult scales. Significant results were obtained at the .05 level for the following scales: L, F, 1, 2, 3, 4.", "PMID": 457916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12986", "title": "Alcohol: a description and comparison of recent scientific vs. public knowledge.", "content": "Sought to survey alcohol research since the \"rediscovery\" of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and to compare recent scientific knowledge with that of the general public. Research was found to concentrate on searching for explanations of alcohol use and/or abuse and on several areas of biological morphogenesis. Significant documentation exists for FAS and validates both physiological and developmental attributes. As an index of public knowledge, an alcohol questionnaire was administered to 190 high-school, college, and graduate students. True-false items represented statements relative to the nature, etiology, effects, variables, and consequences of alcohol use/abuse. The composite mean of less than 60% correct suggested significant misinformation and misconceptions about alcohol. A summary of the most dramatic informational deficits was presented. There was a positive, though minimal, relationship between alcohol knowledge and education, and both sex and race differences were noted.", "contents": "Alcohol: a description and comparison of recent scientific vs. public knowledge. Sought to survey alcohol research since the \"rediscovery\" of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and to compare recent scientific knowledge with that of the general public. Research was found to concentrate on searching for explanations of alcohol use and/or abuse and on several areas of biological morphogenesis. Significant documentation exists for FAS and validates both physiological and developmental attributes. As an index of public knowledge, an alcohol questionnaire was administered to 190 high-school, college, and graduate students. True-false items represented statements relative to the nature, etiology, effects, variables, and consequences of alcohol use/abuse. The composite mean of less than 60% correct suggested significant misinformation and misconceptions about alcohol. A summary of the most dramatic informational deficits was presented. There was a positive, though minimal, relationship between alcohol knowledge and education, and both sex and race differences were noted.", "PMID": 457917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12987", "title": "Brief form of the Competency Screening Test for mental competence to stand trial.", "content": "Investigated a brief 5-item version of the Competency Screening Test (a sentence completion test of mental competence to stand trial) for its relationship to the complete 22-item test, and for its power to predict the mental competency findings of a comprehensive Clinical Psychiatric Evaluation conducted by a forensic psychiatrist. Ss were 21 female patients serially examined in a forensic psychiatric service for mental competence to stand trial. Tests were individually administered. The brief version of Competency Screening Test was highly correlated, with the full test Rho = .92. It classified 17 (of 21) patients in direct agreement with the results of the Clinical Psychiatric Evaluation. It showed a theoretical, but small relationship with verbal intelligence for this group. The 5-item form seems applicable for preliminary competency screening evaluation.", "contents": "Brief form of the Competency Screening Test for mental competence to stand trial. Investigated a brief 5-item version of the Competency Screening Test (a sentence completion test of mental competence to stand trial) for its relationship to the complete 22-item test, and for its power to predict the mental competency findings of a comprehensive Clinical Psychiatric Evaluation conducted by a forensic psychiatrist. Ss were 21 female patients serially examined in a forensic psychiatric service for mental competence to stand trial. Tests were individually administered. The brief version of Competency Screening Test was highly correlated, with the full test Rho = .92. It classified 17 (of 21) patients in direct agreement with the results of the Clinical Psychiatric Evaluation. It showed a theoretical, but small relationship with verbal intelligence for this group. The 5-item form seems applicable for preliminary competency screening evaluation.", "PMID": 457918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12988", "title": "A psychometric and behavioral comparison of delinquents who were abused as children with their non-abused peers.", "content": "Investigated responses of abused and non-abused juvenile delinquents to Bell's Adjustment Inventory and Gough's California Psychological Inventory, and information with regard to several related behavioral measures. The Ss were 52 institutionalized adolescent males and females. Results indicated that the abused Ss scored significantly higher than the non-abused group on the Home Adjustment Scale (indicative of poorer adjustment) and significantly lower than the non-abused group on the Flexibility, Tolerance, and Socialization Scales. Subsequent analysis showed a significant interaction effect on the behavioral measure with regard to the number of runaway attempts; abused males made significantly more attempts than abused females and non-abused males and females.", "contents": "A psychometric and behavioral comparison of delinquents who were abused as children with their non-abused peers. Investigated responses of abused and non-abused juvenile delinquents to Bell's Adjustment Inventory and Gough's California Psychological Inventory, and information with regard to several related behavioral measures. The Ss were 52 institutionalized adolescent males and females. Results indicated that the abused Ss scored significantly higher than the non-abused group on the Home Adjustment Scale (indicative of poorer adjustment) and significantly lower than the non-abused group on the Flexibility, Tolerance, and Socialization Scales. Subsequent analysis showed a significant interaction effect on the behavioral measure with regard to the number of runaway attempts; abused males made significantly more attempts than abused females and non-abused males and females.", "PMID": 457919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12989", "title": "Attitudes toward women and orientation to seeking professional psychological help.", "content": "Studied the relationship between attitudes toward the rights and proper roles of women in society and attitudes toward seeking professional help for emotional problems in a sample of 80 college students. Liberal attitudes toward women were associated with positive help-seeking attitudes in men and women, contrary to predictions based on prior research and on feminist criticisms of the mental health profession. No sex difference in attitudes toward help-seeking was found; however, the attitudes toward women variable appears to be at least as good a predictor of actual help-seeking as a person's attitude toward help-seeking, within the sample studied.", "contents": "Attitudes toward women and orientation to seeking professional psychological help. Studied the relationship between attitudes toward the rights and proper roles of women in society and attitudes toward seeking professional help for emotional problems in a sample of 80 college students. Liberal attitudes toward women were associated with positive help-seeking attitudes in men and women, contrary to predictions based on prior research and on feminist criticisms of the mental health profession. No sex difference in attitudes toward help-seeking was found; however, the attitudes toward women variable appears to be at least as good a predictor of actual help-seeking as a person's attitude toward help-seeking, within the sample studied.", "PMID": 457920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12990", "title": "Patients' understanding of prescribed drugs.", "content": "Patients must understand their physicians' recommendations if they are to follow medical advice. This study assesses the degree to which patients and physicians share basic information about medications. Patients who regularly attended the medical clinics of a large, urban teaching hospital were asked to recall the identity, purpose, and dose schedule of medications that were prescribed for them. Patients' responses were compared to the medications actually prescribed by their physicians. Patients identified 90% of medications prescribed during the visits, knew the purpose 83%, and the correct dose schedule for 80%. Only 58% of patients knew the dosage schedule of all their medications correctly. Patients' knowledge of prescribed drugs was inversely related to the number of their medical problems and the number of medications prescribed. Lack of effective communication between physicians and patients about medications may be an important reason why patients do not follow medical advice.", "contents": "Patients' understanding of prescribed drugs. Patients must understand their physicians' recommendations if they are to follow medical advice. This study assesses the degree to which patients and physicians share basic information about medications. Patients who regularly attended the medical clinics of a large, urban teaching hospital were asked to recall the identity, purpose, and dose schedule of medications that were prescribed for them. Patients' responses were compared to the medications actually prescribed by their physicians. Patients identified 90% of medications prescribed during the visits, knew the purpose 83%, and the correct dose schedule for 80%. Only 58% of patients knew the dosage schedule of all their medications correctly. Patients' knowledge of prescribed drugs was inversely related to the number of their medical problems and the number of medications prescribed. Lack of effective communication between physicians and patients about medications may be an important reason why patients do not follow medical advice.", "PMID": 457923} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12991", "title": "Diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in the emergency room: a prospective assessment of clinical decision making and the usefulness of immediate cardiac enzyme determination.", "content": "This study evaluates (a) the ability of house staff physicians to diagnose acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with chest pain and (b) the usefulness of immediate (\"stat\") creatine kinase determinations in aiding the decision to hospitalize patients with chest pain. Of 80 emergency room patients with chest pain, 34 were admitted to an intensive care unit and 46 were either discharged or admitted to a general medical unit. Of the 34 patients admitted to intensive care, 11 fulfilled criteria for AMI. Of the 46 who were not admitted, two met criteria for AMI: one had abnormal initial enzyme values; the other had normal initial values but diagnostic 48-hour values. Both had abnormal electrocardiograms. On the other hand, 11 patients who were not admitted had elevated initial enzyme values but did not have myocardial infarctions and might have been admitted inappropriately on the basis of their initial enzyme values. Five patients who were admitted had normal initial values but did develop infarctions and might have been sent home inappropriately on the basis of initial enzymes values. We conclude that: (a) physicians discharged 2 of 13 patients with AMI drawn from a population of 80 with chest pain and (b) the availability of stat cardiac enzymes could have prevented the discharge of only 1 patient and may have caused the inappropriate admission of 11 and discharge of 5 patients.", "contents": "Diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in the emergency room: a prospective assessment of clinical decision making and the usefulness of immediate cardiac enzyme determination. This study evaluates (a) the ability of house staff physicians to diagnose acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with chest pain and (b) the usefulness of immediate (\"stat\") creatine kinase determinations in aiding the decision to hospitalize patients with chest pain. Of 80 emergency room patients with chest pain, 34 were admitted to an intensive care unit and 46 were either discharged or admitted to a general medical unit. Of the 34 patients admitted to intensive care, 11 fulfilled criteria for AMI. Of the 46 who were not admitted, two met criteria for AMI: one had abnormal initial enzyme values; the other had normal initial values but diagnostic 48-hour values. Both had abnormal electrocardiograms. On the other hand, 11 patients who were not admitted had elevated initial enzyme values but did not have myocardial infarctions and might have been admitted inappropriately on the basis of their initial enzyme values. Five patients who were admitted had normal initial values but did develop infarctions and might have been sent home inappropriately on the basis of initial enzymes values. We conclude that: (a) physicians discharged 2 of 13 patients with AMI drawn from a population of 80 with chest pain and (b) the availability of stat cardiac enzymes could have prevented the discharge of only 1 patient and may have caused the inappropriate admission of 11 and discharge of 5 patients.", "PMID": 457924} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12992", "title": "Rural access to regular source of medical care.", "content": "Household survey data from an adult rural west Texas population were used to investigate the role of demographic, economic, attitudinal, and need-related factors in (a) explaining physician contact and volume of physician visits and (b) differentiating between those individuals who have and those who do not have a regular source of medical care. Fifty-two percent of the variance in visit volume were explained; compared with the findings reported in similar studies, alignment with a regular source of care was more closely associated with visit volume and physician contact. Although the variance explained in having a regular source was only about 18%, the findings suggest that factors determining alignment with a regular source may differ considerably from those determining other dimensions of utilization. Furthermore, patterns evident across several dimensions in rural populations may be quite different from those exhibited in other populations.", "contents": "Rural access to regular source of medical care. Household survey data from an adult rural west Texas population were used to investigate the role of demographic, economic, attitudinal, and need-related factors in (a) explaining physician contact and volume of physician visits and (b) differentiating between those individuals who have and those who do not have a regular source of medical care. Fifty-two percent of the variance in visit volume were explained; compared with the findings reported in similar studies, alignment with a regular source of care was more closely associated with visit volume and physician contact. Although the variance explained in having a regular source was only about 18%, the findings suggest that factors determining alignment with a regular source may differ considerably from those determining other dimensions of utilization. Furthermore, patterns evident across several dimensions in rural populations may be quite different from those exhibited in other populations.", "PMID": 457925} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12993", "title": "\"Positive programming\": the use of data in planning for the rural health initiative.", "content": "A data-driven approach to allocating federal resources for primary care systems in rural areas is presented. This approach was developed and implemented by the Public Health Service (PHS) when it undertook its Rural Health Initiative Program. Nationally available small-area data were used to identify \"priority counties\" and PHS regional office staffs were asked to take an active role in developing rural health system projects in these counties. This approach was adopted to avoid the problem of the many communities eligible for and in need of funds that do not get them because they lack the organization and knowledgeable personnel required to develop a project grant application. The paper defines and discusses the \"positive programming\" approach (believed to be the first attempt to allocate federal health service delivery resources actively on the basis of small-area data), discusses the present shortcomings of the approach (including data limitations), and presents the results of implementing the approach. In the first year, 23% of the priority counties and 13% of the nonpriority counties were served, while in the second year 39% of the priority counties and 17% of the nonpriority counties were served. The substantial increase in the percentage of priority counties served reflects the effectiveness of the positive programming effort.", "contents": "\"Positive programming\": the use of data in planning for the rural health initiative. A data-driven approach to allocating federal resources for primary care systems in rural areas is presented. This approach was developed and implemented by the Public Health Service (PHS) when it undertook its Rural Health Initiative Program. Nationally available small-area data were used to identify \"priority counties\" and PHS regional office staffs were asked to take an active role in developing rural health system projects in these counties. This approach was adopted to avoid the problem of the many communities eligible for and in need of funds that do not get them because they lack the organization and knowledgeable personnel required to develop a project grant application. The paper defines and discusses the \"positive programming\" approach (believed to be the first attempt to allocate federal health service delivery resources actively on the basis of small-area data), discusses the present shortcomings of the approach (including data limitations), and presents the results of implementing the approach. In the first year, 23% of the priority counties and 13% of the nonpriority counties were served, while in the second year 39% of the priority counties and 17% of the nonpriority counties were served. The substantial increase in the percentage of priority counties served reflects the effectiveness of the positive programming effort.", "PMID": 457926} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12994", "title": "Changes in patient perceptions toward a family practice: a case study.", "content": "This paper presents the results of an evaluation of a family practice that focuses on changes in patient perceptions over five years. The evaluation includes an analysis of patient attitudes as well as behavior. Patient attitudes are measured by means of a personal interview and behavior is analyzed by creation of a Family Utilization Index. Significant changes are noted in the areas of both reported and actual utilization, with fewer changes in the areas relating to patients' perceptions of health and illness or in attitudes toward either the model of family practice of the specific site of obtaining care. This is not a definitive model for evaluation of family practice, but it is one of the few empirical studies available and suggests the need for more documentation of the effectiveness of family practice as a model for delivering primary care services.", "contents": "Changes in patient perceptions toward a family practice: a case study. This paper presents the results of an evaluation of a family practice that focuses on changes in patient perceptions over five years. The evaluation includes an analysis of patient attitudes as well as behavior. Patient attitudes are measured by means of a personal interview and behavior is analyzed by creation of a Family Utilization Index. Significant changes are noted in the areas of both reported and actual utilization, with fewer changes in the areas relating to patients' perceptions of health and illness or in attitudes toward either the model of family practice of the specific site of obtaining care. This is not a definitive model for evaluation of family practice, but it is one of the few empirical studies available and suggests the need for more documentation of the effectiveness of family practice as a model for delivering primary care services.", "PMID": 457927} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12995", "title": "Development of neocortical circuitry: histochemical localization of acetylcholinesterase in relation to the cell layers of rat somatosensory cortex.", "content": "Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) was histochemically localized in neocortex cerebri of newborn to 1-week-old rats. At birth AchE-dependent staining is limited to scattered somata (Cajal-Retzius cells) in the marginal zone and a few fibers and somata in primordial layer VI. By the end of the first week, neuronal elements are relatively well stained in particular cell laminae, giving the appearance of three horizontal AchE-rich \"bands\" which alternate with AchE-poor laminae. The subpial band (layer I) is a narrow tangential zone of intensely staining fibers and scattered somata. The mid-cortical band contains an AchE-positive fiber plexus (primordial layer IV) and numerous stained somata (pyramids of primordial layer V). In layer IV of the SmI region, intermittent foci of staining are noted which overlap the barrels' distribution in the barrel field. The deep cortical band (bottom of primordial layer VI) consists of numerous stained somata (Martinotti cells). It is concluded that there is a laminar pattern of acetylcholinesterase-dependent staining in postnatal rat somatosensory cortex, and that the laminar pattern bears a consistent spatial relation both to the cell layers and to the depths of high synapse density in immature cortex.", "contents": "Development of neocortical circuitry: histochemical localization of acetylcholinesterase in relation to the cell layers of rat somatosensory cortex. Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) was histochemically localized in neocortex cerebri of newborn to 1-week-old rats. At birth AchE-dependent staining is limited to scattered somata (Cajal-Retzius cells) in the marginal zone and a few fibers and somata in primordial layer VI. By the end of the first week, neuronal elements are relatively well stained in particular cell laminae, giving the appearance of three horizontal AchE-rich \"bands\" which alternate with AchE-poor laminae. The subpial band (layer I) is a narrow tangential zone of intensely staining fibers and scattered somata. The mid-cortical band contains an AchE-positive fiber plexus (primordial layer IV) and numerous stained somata (pyramids of primordial layer V). In layer IV of the SmI region, intermittent foci of staining are noted which overlap the barrels' distribution in the barrel field. The deep cortical band (bottom of primordial layer VI) consists of numerous stained somata (Martinotti cells). It is concluded that there is a laminar pattern of acetylcholinesterase-dependent staining in postnatal rat somatosensory cortex, and that the laminar pattern bears a consistent spatial relation both to the cell layers and to the depths of high synapse density in immature cortex.", "PMID": 457928} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12996", "title": "Quantitative studies of retinal ganglion cells in a turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. I. Number and distribution of ganglion cells.", "content": "Multiple pathways for the transmission of visual information from retina to brain have been described in reptiles, but little is known about their functional organization. These parallel channels begin at the retina, and we have therefore begun to study the functional organization of retinal ganglion cells in the turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. This paper describes the numbers and distribution of cells in the ganglion cell layer. To develop criteria for the identification of ganglion cells, we labelled them retrogradely by applying horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to the optic nerve. Ganglion cells were found to vary substantially in size and cytology. In low density areas of the retina, ganglion cells typically have cytoplasm with well developed Nissl substance, a distinct, pale nucleus, and a large nucleolus. In high density areas of retina, ganglion cells are small, densely staining, and gliaform. The average minimum proportion of ganglion cells in the ganglion cell layer is 75--80% of total profiles. No more than five or six percent of profiles in the ganglion cell layer are neurons which do not send an axon into the optic nerve (displaced amacrine cells or intraretinal association cells). The ganglion cell layer of P. s. elegans can be divided into a number of regions on the basis of cell density. Isodensity maps constructed from Nissl-stained, wholemounted retinas indicate that there is an elongated region of high ganglion cell density, the visual streak, which extends from nasal to temporal retina and is oriented such that its long axis follows the horizontal axis of the eye. The streak is aligned with the externally visible iris line. Seen in cross-section, the ganglion cell layer in the streak is three to four cells thick; in nonstreak retina, ganglion cells form only a monolayer of somas. Ganglion cell density drops off more rapidly above the streak than below it. The temporal arm of the streak is both shorter and broader than the nasal arm. There is a peak in ganglion cell density at the midpoint of the streak, in the approximate center of the retina. Here, ganglion cell densities exceed 20,000 cells mm-2. The total number of ganglion cells in the retina is 350,000--390,000.", "contents": "Quantitative studies of retinal ganglion cells in a turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. I. Number and distribution of ganglion cells. Multiple pathways for the transmission of visual information from retina to brain have been described in reptiles, but little is known about their functional organization. These parallel channels begin at the retina, and we have therefore begun to study the functional organization of retinal ganglion cells in the turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. This paper describes the numbers and distribution of cells in the ganglion cell layer. To develop criteria for the identification of ganglion cells, we labelled them retrogradely by applying horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to the optic nerve. Ganglion cells were found to vary substantially in size and cytology. In low density areas of the retina, ganglion cells typically have cytoplasm with well developed Nissl substance, a distinct, pale nucleus, and a large nucleolus. In high density areas of retina, ganglion cells are small, densely staining, and gliaform. The average minimum proportion of ganglion cells in the ganglion cell layer is 75--80% of total profiles. No more than five or six percent of profiles in the ganglion cell layer are neurons which do not send an axon into the optic nerve (displaced amacrine cells or intraretinal association cells). The ganglion cell layer of P. s. elegans can be divided into a number of regions on the basis of cell density. Isodensity maps constructed from Nissl-stained, wholemounted retinas indicate that there is an elongated region of high ganglion cell density, the visual streak, which extends from nasal to temporal retina and is oriented such that its long axis follows the horizontal axis of the eye. The streak is aligned with the externally visible iris line. Seen in cross-section, the ganglion cell layer in the streak is three to four cells thick; in nonstreak retina, ganglion cells form only a monolayer of somas. Ganglion cell density drops off more rapidly above the streak than below it. The temporal arm of the streak is both shorter and broader than the nasal arm. There is a peak in ganglion cell density at the midpoint of the streak, in the approximate center of the retina. Here, ganglion cell densities exceed 20,000 cells mm-2. The total number of ganglion cells in the retina is 350,000--390,000.", "PMID": 457929} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12997", "title": "Efferent projections of the dorsal ventricular ridge and the striatum in the Tegu lizard. Tupinambis nigropunctatus.", "content": "A H3 proline-leucine mixture was injected into the dorsal ventricular ridge (DVR) and striatum of the Tegu lizard in order to determine their efferent projections. The brains were processed according to standard radioautographic technique, and counterstained with cresyl violet. DVR projections were generally restricted to the telencephalon, while striatal projections were limited to diencephalic and mesencephalic structures. Thus the anterior DVR projects ipsilaterally to nuclei sphericus and lateralis amygdalae, striatum (ipsilateral and contralateral) ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, nucleus accumbens, anterior olfactory nucleus, nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract and lateral pallium. Posterior DVR projections enter ipsilateral anterior olfactory nucleus, lateral and interstitial amygdalar nuclei, olfactory tubercle and bulb, nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract and a zone surrounding the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. Labeled axons from striatal injections pass caudally in the lateral forebrain bundle to enter (via dorsal peduncle) nuclei dorsomedialis, medialis posterior, entopeduncularis anterior, and a zone surrounding nucleus rotundus. Others join the ventral peduncle of LFB and enter ventromedial nucleus (thalami), while the remaining fibers continue caudally in the ventral peduncle to the mesencephalic prerubral field, central gray, substantia nigra, nucleus intercollicularis, reticular formation and pretectal nucleus posterodorsalis. These results are discussed in relation to the changing notions regarding terminology, classification and functions of dorsl ventricular ridge and striatum.", "contents": "Efferent projections of the dorsal ventricular ridge and the striatum in the Tegu lizard. Tupinambis nigropunctatus. A H3 proline-leucine mixture was injected into the dorsal ventricular ridge (DVR) and striatum of the Tegu lizard in order to determine their efferent projections. The brains were processed according to standard radioautographic technique, and counterstained with cresyl violet. DVR projections were generally restricted to the telencephalon, while striatal projections were limited to diencephalic and mesencephalic structures. Thus the anterior DVR projects ipsilaterally to nuclei sphericus and lateralis amygdalae, striatum (ipsilateral and contralateral) ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, nucleus accumbens, anterior olfactory nucleus, nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract and lateral pallium. Posterior DVR projections enter ipsilateral anterior olfactory nucleus, lateral and interstitial amygdalar nuclei, olfactory tubercle and bulb, nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract and a zone surrounding the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. Labeled axons from striatal injections pass caudally in the lateral forebrain bundle to enter (via dorsal peduncle) nuclei dorsomedialis, medialis posterior, entopeduncularis anterior, and a zone surrounding nucleus rotundus. Others join the ventral peduncle of LFB and enter ventromedial nucleus (thalami), while the remaining fibers continue caudally in the ventral peduncle to the mesencephalic prerubral field, central gray, substantia nigra, nucleus intercollicularis, reticular formation and pretectal nucleus posterodorsalis. These results are discussed in relation to the changing notions regarding terminology, classification and functions of dorsl ventricular ridge and striatum.", "PMID": 457930} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12998", "title": "Localization of vagal cardioinhibitory preganglionic neurons with rat brain stem.", "content": "In chloralose-urethane anesthetized spinal rats, electrical stimulation of systematically chosen points over the entire caudal brain stem area was carried out to explore the site(s) responsible for vagally mediated bradycardia. A dorsomedial locus including the nucleus dorsalis and the adjacent structures, the nucleus tractus solitarius, the nucleus commissuralis and the area postrema, and a ventrolateral locus around the nucleus ambiguus were found to elicit bradycardia with low threshold and high responsiveness. In another series of experiments, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was iontophoretically administered through a glass capillary microelectrode into the identified cardiac branch of the vagus nerve of rats in order to localize more precisely the cells of origin of vagal cardioinhibitory fibers within the brain stem. Distribution of the HRP-labeled cells was not confined to one area, but these cells were found within the nucleus dorsalis, the reticular formation surrounding the nucleus ambiguus and an intermediary zone between the two nuclei. Such a pattern of distribution of vagal cardioinhibitory preganglionic cells is discussed in relation to phylogenetic and ontogenetic development of the vagal motor nuclei.", "contents": "Localization of vagal cardioinhibitory preganglionic neurons with rat brain stem. In chloralose-urethane anesthetized spinal rats, electrical stimulation of systematically chosen points over the entire caudal brain stem area was carried out to explore the site(s) responsible for vagally mediated bradycardia. A dorsomedial locus including the nucleus dorsalis and the adjacent structures, the nucleus tractus solitarius, the nucleus commissuralis and the area postrema, and a ventrolateral locus around the nucleus ambiguus were found to elicit bradycardia with low threshold and high responsiveness. In another series of experiments, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was iontophoretically administered through a glass capillary microelectrode into the identified cardiac branch of the vagus nerve of rats in order to localize more precisely the cells of origin of vagal cardioinhibitory fibers within the brain stem. Distribution of the HRP-labeled cells was not confined to one area, but these cells were found within the nucleus dorsalis, the reticular formation surrounding the nucleus ambiguus and an intermediary zone between the two nuclei. Such a pattern of distribution of vagal cardioinhibitory preganglionic cells is discussed in relation to phylogenetic and ontogenetic development of the vagal motor nuclei.", "PMID": 457932} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_12999", "title": "Neuronal populations of the human periaqueductal gray, nucleus lateralis.", "content": "The present communication is part of a study designed to explore the neuronal populations and the organization of the periaqueductal gray matter(PAG). The data presented here deals exclusively with the nucleus lateralis (PAGL) and is based upon Golgi studies of 14 human brainstems. In this investigation 400 cells were measured and classified. Axonal origin, axonal and dendritic ramifications, and spine population were studied. The data demonstrate that morphologically the PAGL is comprised of a heterogeneous population of small and medium sized neurons consisting of three major cell types: vertical cells, stellate cells, and horizontal cells. Observations of axonal pathways and dendritic ramifications describes an anatomical substrate for direct communication between the PAGL and the superior colliculus, which includes a system of axonal projections from the PAGL into the superior colliculus. The cells of origin of this pathway have been identified as being primarily vertical and stellate cells. It is anticipated that these data will provide the groundwork for further detailed study of PAGL neurons and for identifying specific neuronal populations with their functional roles.", "contents": "Neuronal populations of the human periaqueductal gray, nucleus lateralis. The present communication is part of a study designed to explore the neuronal populations and the organization of the periaqueductal gray matter(PAG). The data presented here deals exclusively with the nucleus lateralis (PAGL) and is based upon Golgi studies of 14 human brainstems. In this investigation 400 cells were measured and classified. Axonal origin, axonal and dendritic ramifications, and spine population were studied. The data demonstrate that morphologically the PAGL is comprised of a heterogeneous population of small and medium sized neurons consisting of three major cell types: vertical cells, stellate cells, and horizontal cells. Observations of axonal pathways and dendritic ramifications describes an anatomical substrate for direct communication between the PAGL and the superior colliculus, which includes a system of axonal projections from the PAGL into the superior colliculus. The cells of origin of this pathway have been identified as being primarily vertical and stellate cells. It is anticipated that these data will provide the groundwork for further detailed study of PAGL neurons and for identifying specific neuronal populations with their functional roles.", "PMID": 457933} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13000", "title": "Ruffed cell: a new type of neuron with a distinctive initial unmyelinated portion of the axon in the olfactory bulb of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) I. Golgi impregnation and serial thin sectioning studies.", "content": "A new type of neuron was recognized in the olfactory bulb of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) by means of light and high voltage electron microscopy of Golgi-impregnated material, combined Golgi-electron microscopy, and electron microscopy of serial thin sections. The neuron is located in the layer between the olfactory nerve layer and the anterior olfactory nucleus. It has a spherical cell body, about 10--20 microns in diameter, and several dendrites which form a spherical dendritic field, about 70--100 microns in diameter, in the vicinity of the cell body. The most remarkable structural feature of this neuron is that its initial unmyelinated portion of the axon (IP) has elaborate protrusions with many synapses. The IP can be divided into three parts, parts 1, 2 and 3, based on its structural features. Part 1 is the initial part of the IP, about 20--40 microns in length. Many elaborate protrusions arise from the shaft and intermingle with one another to constitute a spherical field, about 20--40 microns in diameter, around the shaft. Part 2 is the middle part of the IP, about 10--20 microns in length. There are several collateral-like protrusions, which are scattered along the shaft and extended laterally about 5--15 microns. Part 3 is the last part of the IP, and is cylindrical without protrusions. The length of part 3 varies from 20 to more than 100 microns. The axon acquires a myelin sheath at distance of 70--250 microns from its origin. Protrusions make synaptic contacts mainly with granule cell dendrites. Some of them are of the reciprocal type. Protrusion are presynaptic in asymmetrical synapses, and postsynaptic in symmetrical synapses with granule cell dendrites. The shaft of the IP also has synapses similar to those on protrusions. The neuron described is a new type of neuron in the vertebrate central nervous system. We propose for it the name \"ruffed cell.\"", "contents": "Ruffed cell: a new type of neuron with a distinctive initial unmyelinated portion of the axon in the olfactory bulb of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) I. Golgi impregnation and serial thin sectioning studies. A new type of neuron was recognized in the olfactory bulb of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) by means of light and high voltage electron microscopy of Golgi-impregnated material, combined Golgi-electron microscopy, and electron microscopy of serial thin sections. The neuron is located in the layer between the olfactory nerve layer and the anterior olfactory nucleus. It has a spherical cell body, about 10--20 microns in diameter, and several dendrites which form a spherical dendritic field, about 70--100 microns in diameter, in the vicinity of the cell body. The most remarkable structural feature of this neuron is that its initial unmyelinated portion of the axon (IP) has elaborate protrusions with many synapses. The IP can be divided into three parts, parts 1, 2 and 3, based on its structural features. Part 1 is the initial part of the IP, about 20--40 microns in length. Many elaborate protrusions arise from the shaft and intermingle with one another to constitute a spherical field, about 20--40 microns in diameter, around the shaft. Part 2 is the middle part of the IP, about 10--20 microns in length. There are several collateral-like protrusions, which are scattered along the shaft and extended laterally about 5--15 microns. Part 3 is the last part of the IP, and is cylindrical without protrusions. The length of part 3 varies from 20 to more than 100 microns. The axon acquires a myelin sheath at distance of 70--250 microns from its origin. Protrusions make synaptic contacts mainly with granule cell dendrites. Some of them are of the reciprocal type. Protrusion are presynaptic in asymmetrical synapses, and postsynaptic in symmetrical synapses with granule cell dendrites. The shaft of the IP also has synapses similar to those on protrusions. The neuron described is a new type of neuron in the vertebrate central nervous system. We propose for it the name \"ruffed cell.\"", "PMID": 457934} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13001", "title": "Cerebellar corticonuclear fibers of the dorsal culminate lobule (anterior lobe--lobule V) in a prosimian primate, Galago senegalensis.", "content": "The organization of corticonuclear fibers from lobule V of the anterior lobe of the lesser bushbaby, Galago senegalensis, was studied utilizing the Fink and Heimer ('67) method. Corticonuclear fibers of lobule V are ipsilateral, topographically arranged in their trajectory into the deep cerebellar nuclei and organized into six identifiable zones. No evidence is seen to support the contention that these fibers may project diffusely into the cerebellar nuclei, either in a rostro-caudal or medio-lateral sequence, or that they may project to any of the contralateral nuclei. Lesions in lateral lobule V cortex produce degeneration in rostroventral magnocellular NL. No debris is seen in pavicellular NL and no degenerated axons enter the NIA, NIP or NM. The terminal field in the NL is roughly pyramid shaped with the base being located at the periphery of the nucleus and the apex directed toward the hilus. Based on the totality of its efferent projections the intermediate cortex (IC) of lobule V is a relatively wide region which is divisible into three separate areas. Lateral portions of the IC project heavily into the lateral NIA and send a sparse number of fibers into the NIP. The middle area of the IC sends fibers almost exclusively to a bifid terminal field located in the NIP. From this area of cortex no degenerated fibers enter either the NL or NM and only extremely sparse amounts od debris are seen in rostrolateral NIA. Following damage to medial regions of IC degeneration is seen primarily in medial portions of the NIA and in the juxtarestiform body, if the lesion involves the lateral portions of the vermal cortex. These three regions of the IC, identified here based on the arrangement of their corticonuclear fibers represent the cortical correlates of compartments C1, C2 and C3 (of Voogd, '69). Lesions involving the lateral aspect of the vermal cortex produce degeneration in the vestibular complex, primarily its lateral nucleus, and in the NIP. These observations may represent a subdivision of this area, a fact previously reported in the cat (Oscarsson and Sj\u00f6lund, '77a). The medial portions of the vermal cortex project primarily to rostrodorsal NM. The results of this study provide data concerning the arrangement of zones in anterior lobe cortex of a primate. Due to the fact that differential projections into magnocellular versus parvicellular NL were not seen, the lateral cortex is designated only as zone D. The IC contains, from lateral to medial, zones C3, C2 and C1. The lateral edge of the vermal cortex is designated zone B, although it is recognized that subdivisions of this area may exist (Oscarsson and Sj\u00f6lund, '77a) while zone A is the more medial area of vermal cortex. These zone designations represent those portions of cortex which overlie previously identified compartments (Voogd, '69) in the subcortical white matter.", "contents": "Cerebellar corticonuclear fibers of the dorsal culminate lobule (anterior lobe--lobule V) in a prosimian primate, Galago senegalensis. The organization of corticonuclear fibers from lobule V of the anterior lobe of the lesser bushbaby, Galago senegalensis, was studied utilizing the Fink and Heimer ('67) method. Corticonuclear fibers of lobule V are ipsilateral, topographically arranged in their trajectory into the deep cerebellar nuclei and organized into six identifiable zones. No evidence is seen to support the contention that these fibers may project diffusely into the cerebellar nuclei, either in a rostro-caudal or medio-lateral sequence, or that they may project to any of the contralateral nuclei. Lesions in lateral lobule V cortex produce degeneration in rostroventral magnocellular NL. No debris is seen in pavicellular NL and no degenerated axons enter the NIA, NIP or NM. The terminal field in the NL is roughly pyramid shaped with the base being located at the periphery of the nucleus and the apex directed toward the hilus. Based on the totality of its efferent projections the intermediate cortex (IC) of lobule V is a relatively wide region which is divisible into three separate areas. Lateral portions of the IC project heavily into the lateral NIA and send a sparse number of fibers into the NIP. The middle area of the IC sends fibers almost exclusively to a bifid terminal field located in the NIP. From this area of cortex no degenerated fibers enter either the NL or NM and only extremely sparse amounts od debris are seen in rostrolateral NIA. Following damage to medial regions of IC degeneration is seen primarily in medial portions of the NIA and in the juxtarestiform body, if the lesion involves the lateral portions of the vermal cortex. These three regions of the IC, identified here based on the arrangement of their corticonuclear fibers represent the cortical correlates of compartments C1, C2 and C3 (of Voogd, '69). Lesions involving the lateral aspect of the vermal cortex produce degeneration in the vestibular complex, primarily its lateral nucleus, and in the NIP. These observations may represent a subdivision of this area, a fact previously reported in the cat (Oscarsson and Sj\u00f6lund, '77a). The medial portions of the vermal cortex project primarily to rostrodorsal NM. The results of this study provide data concerning the arrangement of zones in anterior lobe cortex of a primate. Due to the fact that differential projections into magnocellular versus parvicellular NL were not seen, the lateral cortex is designated only as zone D. The IC contains, from lateral to medial, zones C3, C2 and C1. The lateral edge of the vermal cortex is designated zone B, although it is recognized that subdivisions of this area may exist (Oscarsson and Sj\u00f6lund, '77a) while zone A is the more medial area of vermal cortex. These zone designations represent those portions of cortex which overlie previously identified compartments (Voogd, '69) in the subcortical white matter.", "PMID": 457935} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13002", "title": "Somatostatin neurons and their projections in dog diencephalon.", "content": "Immunocytochemical localization of the tetradecapeptide somatostatin was performed in dog brain using the unlabeled antibody enzyme method. A large population of immunoreactive neurons was seen in the periventricular areas of the preoptic area and anterior hypothalamus. This field of neurons extended into the paraventricular nucleus, arcuate nucleus and tuberal areas surrounding the ventromedial nuclei. Fibers from the periventricular somatostatin cells projected into the median eminence, the third ventricle, the pars nervosa of the hypophysis, the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, the medial preoptic area and the interstitial nucleus of the stria terminalis. The tuberal cells projected to the ventromedial nucleus and the cells of the arcuate nucleus terminated within the arcuate nucleus as well as within the contact zone of the median eminence. These findings suggest that somatostatin can exert hormonal effects via the vasculature or the cerebrospinal fluid, or transmitter and/or neuromodulatory effects via contacts with other neurons.", "contents": "Somatostatin neurons and their projections in dog diencephalon. Immunocytochemical localization of the tetradecapeptide somatostatin was performed in dog brain using the unlabeled antibody enzyme method. A large population of immunoreactive neurons was seen in the periventricular areas of the preoptic area and anterior hypothalamus. This field of neurons extended into the paraventricular nucleus, arcuate nucleus and tuberal areas surrounding the ventromedial nuclei. Fibers from the periventricular somatostatin cells projected into the median eminence, the third ventricle, the pars nervosa of the hypophysis, the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, the medial preoptic area and the interstitial nucleus of the stria terminalis. The tuberal cells projected to the ventromedial nucleus and the cells of the arcuate nucleus terminated within the arcuate nucleus as well as within the contact zone of the median eminence. These findings suggest that somatostatin can exert hormonal effects via the vasculature or the cerebrospinal fluid, or transmitter and/or neuromodulatory effects via contacts with other neurons.", "PMID": 457936} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13003", "title": "Primary afferent axons in the tract of Lissauer in the cat.", "content": "The present study is concerned with the numbers of primary afferent axons in the tract of Lissauer in the cat. The data show that approximately 27% of the axons in mid-thoracic and lumbosacral tracts are primary afferent fibers from the segment in question and another 20% of the axons are primary afferent fibers that come from nearby segments. In addition the data show that approximately 80% of the axons in the tract are unmyelinated and that there is a slightly higher proportion of unmyelinated as opposed to myelinated primary afferents. There is also a higher proportion of primary afferents in the medial as opposed to lateral parts of the tract, but there are significant numbers of primary afferents in lateral parts of the tract. Thus it seems clear that the tract contains more primary afferent fibers than was previously believed and if these data are confirmed, the conclusions will have a bearing on considerations of the primary afferent input into the dorsal horn.", "contents": "Primary afferent axons in the tract of Lissauer in the cat. The present study is concerned with the numbers of primary afferent axons in the tract of Lissauer in the cat. The data show that approximately 27% of the axons in mid-thoracic and lumbosacral tracts are primary afferent fibers from the segment in question and another 20% of the axons are primary afferent fibers that come from nearby segments. In addition the data show that approximately 80% of the axons in the tract are unmyelinated and that there is a slightly higher proportion of unmyelinated as opposed to myelinated primary afferents. There is also a higher proportion of primary afferents in the medial as opposed to lateral parts of the tract, but there are significant numbers of primary afferents in lateral parts of the tract. Thus it seems clear that the tract contains more primary afferent fibers than was previously believed and if these data are confirmed, the conclusions will have a bearing on considerations of the primary afferent input into the dorsal horn.", "PMID": 457937} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13004", "title": "The specificity of innervation of regenerating motor neurons in the cockroach.", "content": "The pattern of neuromuscular connections of cockroach motor neurons regenerating to an intact mesothoracic leg after crushing nerve 5 has been investigated. While a number of anatomically identified motor neurons reestablished functional connections with their correct target muscles, some of the same and other motor neurons were found to functionally innervate inappropriate muscles. Muscles, and in some cases individual fibres, were often simultaneously innervated by both correct and foreign motor neurons. The frequency of innervation errors decreased with increasing post-operative times, although some errors persisted to the latest stages examined (227 days).", "contents": "The specificity of innervation of regenerating motor neurons in the cockroach. The pattern of neuromuscular connections of cockroach motor neurons regenerating to an intact mesothoracic leg after crushing nerve 5 has been investigated. While a number of anatomically identified motor neurons reestablished functional connections with their correct target muscles, some of the same and other motor neurons were found to functionally innervate inappropriate muscles. Muscles, and in some cases individual fibres, were often simultaneously innervated by both correct and foreign motor neurons. The frequency of innervation errors decreased with increasing post-operative times, although some errors persisted to the latest stages examined (227 days).", "PMID": 457938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13005", "title": "An electronmicroscopic analysis of the optic nerve in the golden hamster.", "content": "The electronmicroscopic examination of sections taken from the hamster's optic nerve 5 mm behind the globe indicated that the nerve contains 110,165 +/- 4,177 (p less than 0.05) fibres of which 96.4% are myelinated. The fibre diameter distribution is unimodal with a peak at 1.2 micrometer and axon diameters ranging from 0.20 micrometer to 3.93 micrometer. Fibres of all sizes are distributed uniformly throughout the cross section of the nerve. The thickness of the myelin sheath surrounding a given axon is highly (0.80) correlated with axonal diameter and the degree of myelination for a fibre of a given size is nearly constant throughout the nerve's cross section. In nerve sections taken just posterior to the globe most (64%) of the fibres counted are unmyelinated and the percentage of unmyelinated axons is highest near the peripheral boundary of the nerve. The process of myelination is essentially complete in sections taken 3.5 mm behind the eye. These differences in the myelination of the proximal and distal nerve most probably account for the discrepancy between the results reported here and those provided by a previous study (Tiao and Blakemore, '76) concerned with the structure of the optic nerve in this species.", "contents": "An electronmicroscopic analysis of the optic nerve in the golden hamster. The electronmicroscopic examination of sections taken from the hamster's optic nerve 5 mm behind the globe indicated that the nerve contains 110,165 +/- 4,177 (p less than 0.05) fibres of which 96.4% are myelinated. The fibre diameter distribution is unimodal with a peak at 1.2 micrometer and axon diameters ranging from 0.20 micrometer to 3.93 micrometer. Fibres of all sizes are distributed uniformly throughout the cross section of the nerve. The thickness of the myelin sheath surrounding a given axon is highly (0.80) correlated with axonal diameter and the degree of myelination for a fibre of a given size is nearly constant throughout the nerve's cross section. In nerve sections taken just posterior to the globe most (64%) of the fibres counted are unmyelinated and the percentage of unmyelinated axons is highest near the peripheral boundary of the nerve. The process of myelination is essentially complete in sections taken 3.5 mm behind the eye. These differences in the myelination of the proximal and distal nerve most probably account for the discrepancy between the results reported here and those provided by a previous study (Tiao and Blakemore, '76) concerned with the structure of the optic nerve in this species.", "PMID": 457939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13006", "title": "Escape performance after inescapable shock in selectively bred lines of mice: response maintenance and catecholamine activity.", "content": "The effects of inescapable shock on subsequent escape performance and shock-elicited activity were examined in six lines of mice selectively bred for differences in general locomotor activity. The line differences in locomotor activity were found to be unrelated to the differences observed on shock-elicited activity. However, escape performance following exposure to inescapable shock was predictable from the levels of shock-elicited activity. Those lines that displayed the greatest decline in motor activity during shock likewise displayed the most pronounced escape deficits. The line differences in escape performance induced by inescapable shock could be mimicked by treatment with a tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine. As predicted, the lines that displayed the least interference after tyrosine hydroxylase inhibition exhibited the smallest reduction in levels of catecholamines. The effects on escape performance following inescapable shock are interpreted in terms of the role of response maintenance deficits produced by catecholamine depletion.", "contents": "Escape performance after inescapable shock in selectively bred lines of mice: response maintenance and catecholamine activity. The effects of inescapable shock on subsequent escape performance and shock-elicited activity were examined in six lines of mice selectively bred for differences in general locomotor activity. The line differences in locomotor activity were found to be unrelated to the differences observed on shock-elicited activity. However, escape performance following exposure to inescapable shock was predictable from the levels of shock-elicited activity. Those lines that displayed the greatest decline in motor activity during shock likewise displayed the most pronounced escape deficits. The line differences in escape performance induced by inescapable shock could be mimicked by treatment with a tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine. As predicted, the lines that displayed the least interference after tyrosine hydroxylase inhibition exhibited the smallest reduction in levels of catecholamines. The effects on escape performance following inescapable shock are interpreted in terms of the role of response maintenance deficits produced by catecholamine depletion.", "PMID": 457947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13007", "title": "Alcohol intake in selected lines of mice: importance of sex and genotype.", "content": "Mice selected by McClearn and Kakihana for differences in ethanol-induced sleep time were used as subjects. In Experiment 1, mice from the long-sleep (LS) and short-sleep (SS) lines were offered a choice of water or solution GS consisting of 3% glucose and .16% sodium saccharin (w/v); or a choice of water or solution GS + E that contained GS solution plus 4% ethanol (w/v). In Experiment 2, mice from the first experiment were provided with a three-way choice among water, solution GS, and solution GS + E. In both experiments, SS mice (alcohol-insensitive) consumed more GS + E than LS mice (alcohol-sensitive). In addition, female mice drank considerably more GS + E solution than male mice. Thus, consumption of sweetened ethanol in both a two-way choice (water and GS + E) and a three-way choice (water, GS, and GS + E) is dependent on both genotype and sex. High genetic sensitivity to ethanol was associated with low consumption, and vice versa. Although females consumed more alcohol than males, famales of these lines have not been previously found to show lower sensitivity to acute alcohol administration.", "contents": "Alcohol intake in selected lines of mice: importance of sex and genotype. Mice selected by McClearn and Kakihana for differences in ethanol-induced sleep time were used as subjects. In Experiment 1, mice from the long-sleep (LS) and short-sleep (SS) lines were offered a choice of water or solution GS consisting of 3% glucose and .16% sodium saccharin (w/v); or a choice of water or solution GS + E that contained GS solution plus 4% ethanol (w/v). In Experiment 2, mice from the first experiment were provided with a three-way choice among water, solution GS, and solution GS + E. In both experiments, SS mice (alcohol-insensitive) consumed more GS + E than LS mice (alcohol-sensitive). In addition, female mice drank considerably more GS + E solution than male mice. Thus, consumption of sweetened ethanol in both a two-way choice (water and GS + E) and a three-way choice (water, GS, and GS + E) is dependent on both genotype and sex. High genetic sensitivity to ethanol was associated with low consumption, and vice versa. Although females consumed more alcohol than males, famales of these lines have not been previously found to show lower sensitivity to acute alcohol administration.", "PMID": 457948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13008", "title": "Middle temporal cortical visual area and visuospatial function in Galago senegalensis.", "content": "Bushbabies with lesions restricted to the middle temporal (MT) area and animals with larger extrastriate lesions including area MT were compared with normal control animals on test of visuospatial localization and discrimination learning. Ablation of area MT was sufficient to produce impairments in directing behavior appropriately on the basis of visuospatial cues. Extension of the lesion into areas 18 and 19 produced more profound deficits. Retardation in learning a stripe discrimination problem was correlated with the extent of damage to the geniculostriate system. It is hypothesized that area MT is important in achieving and maintaining fixation on a target whereas cortical areas 18 and 19 are necessary for establishing the location of stimulation in visual space.", "contents": "Middle temporal cortical visual area and visuospatial function in Galago senegalensis. Bushbabies with lesions restricted to the middle temporal (MT) area and animals with larger extrastriate lesions including area MT were compared with normal control animals on test of visuospatial localization and discrimination learning. Ablation of area MT was sufficient to produce impairments in directing behavior appropriately on the basis of visuospatial cues. Extension of the lesion into areas 18 and 19 produced more profound deficits. Retardation in learning a stripe discrimination problem was correlated with the extent of damage to the geniculostriate system. It is hypothesized that area MT is important in achieving and maintaining fixation on a target whereas cortical areas 18 and 19 are necessary for establishing the location of stimulation in visual space.", "PMID": 457949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13009", "title": "Evidence that a factor besides progesterone, prolactin, or plasma-estradiol-binding protein inhibits estrogen-induced sexual receptivity in pregnant rats.", "content": "Daily administration of estradiol benzoate stimulated significantly less lordotic behavior in rats during the second half of pregnancy than in ovariectomized females that received subcutaneous progesterone implants, pituitary grafts that raised plasma prolactin, or both treatments combined. Following an initial facilitation of receptivity, females with progesterone implants showed only moderate reductions in lordosis quotients over 3 test days. The capacity of plasma from pregnant rats to bind estradiol was found to increase significantly during the second half of pregnancy. However, daily administration to pregnant rats of a synthetic estrogen, R 2858, which is not bound by plasma protein, was no more effective than estradiol benzoate in stimulating receptive behavior. Administration of estradiol benzoate also stimulated significantly lower levels of sexual behavior in pregnant females than in females in which pseudopregnancy had been prolonged by previous hysterectomy or induction of uterine decidualization. These findings suggest that some endocrine factor other than progesterone, prolactin, or estradiol-binding protein is primarily responsible for the potent suppression of behavioral responsiveness to estrogen which occurs in pregnant rats. It is suggested that 5 alpha-reduced androgens may cause these behavioral effects.", "contents": "Evidence that a factor besides progesterone, prolactin, or plasma-estradiol-binding protein inhibits estrogen-induced sexual receptivity in pregnant rats. Daily administration of estradiol benzoate stimulated significantly less lordotic behavior in rats during the second half of pregnancy than in ovariectomized females that received subcutaneous progesterone implants, pituitary grafts that raised plasma prolactin, or both treatments combined. Following an initial facilitation of receptivity, females with progesterone implants showed only moderate reductions in lordosis quotients over 3 test days. The capacity of plasma from pregnant rats to bind estradiol was found to increase significantly during the second half of pregnancy. However, daily administration to pregnant rats of a synthetic estrogen, R 2858, which is not bound by plasma protein, was no more effective than estradiol benzoate in stimulating receptive behavior. Administration of estradiol benzoate also stimulated significantly lower levels of sexual behavior in pregnant females than in females in which pseudopregnancy had been prolonged by previous hysterectomy or induction of uterine decidualization. These findings suggest that some endocrine factor other than progesterone, prolactin, or estradiol-binding protein is primarily responsible for the potent suppression of behavioral responsiveness to estrogen which occurs in pregnant rats. It is suggested that 5 alpha-reduced androgens may cause these behavioral effects.", "PMID": 457950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13010", "title": "Development of physiological response patterns concomitant with the learning of voluntary heart rate control.", "content": "Thirty-six male undergraduate students were instructed to raise or lower heart rate in a multiple-session biofeedback experiment. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, frontalis electromyographic activity, and skin conductance level were simultaneously recorded throughout biofeedback training. Principal axes factor analyses showed that physiological response patterning concomitant with the development of heart rate control was different early in training (Training Session 1) than it was late in training (Training Session 4) for both speeding and slowing conditions. These results indicate that different heart rate control strategies were used by the subjects early and late in training. The factor patterns also indicated a tendency for greater heart rate response specificity as training progressed for both speeding and slowing. Heart rate speeding sessions were also found to be associated with a significant increase in perceived state anxiety as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. No significant change in perceived anxiety state, however, was associated with heart rate slowing.", "contents": "Development of physiological response patterns concomitant with the learning of voluntary heart rate control. Thirty-six male undergraduate students were instructed to raise or lower heart rate in a multiple-session biofeedback experiment. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, frontalis electromyographic activity, and skin conductance level were simultaneously recorded throughout biofeedback training. Principal axes factor analyses showed that physiological response patterning concomitant with the development of heart rate control was different early in training (Training Session 1) than it was late in training (Training Session 4) for both speeding and slowing conditions. These results indicate that different heart rate control strategies were used by the subjects early and late in training. The factor patterns also indicated a tendency for greater heart rate response specificity as training progressed for both speeding and slowing. Heart rate speeding sessions were also found to be associated with a significant increase in perceived state anxiety as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. No significant change in perceived anxiety state, however, was associated with heart rate slowing.", "PMID": 457951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13011", "title": "Modifications induced by neonatal steroids in reproductive organs and behavior of male rats.", "content": "Male rats injected on Day 3 neonatally with .01, .1, 1, 10, 100, or 1,000 micrograms of estradiol benzoate (EB), 10,000 microgram of testosterone propionate (TP), or sesame oil were subsequently examined for testicular, penile, and accessory organ development. Sexual behavior was evaluated during therapy with fluoxymesterone (FM) and then with TP. Estradiol benzoate in dosages greater than 1.0 micrograms delayed testicular descent, reduced the size and hormone responsiveness of reproductive organs, and decreased sexual behavior in a dose-dependent manner. The 10,000-microgram dosage of neonatal TP delayed testicular descent and reduced sexual behavior to levels near those of the 10--100 micrograms EB groups, but it produced no significant penile or accessory organ changes. Neither reduced peripheral organ development nor inhibited neonatal testicular secretions fully explain reductions in male behavior following large dosages of neonatal TP. Neonatal androgen may reduce the responsiveness of central nervous system neurons governing male sexual behavior after being converted to estrogen or by directly altering steroid receptor systems.", "contents": "Modifications induced by neonatal steroids in reproductive organs and behavior of male rats. Male rats injected on Day 3 neonatally with .01, .1, 1, 10, 100, or 1,000 micrograms of estradiol benzoate (EB), 10,000 microgram of testosterone propionate (TP), or sesame oil were subsequently examined for testicular, penile, and accessory organ development. Sexual behavior was evaluated during therapy with fluoxymesterone (FM) and then with TP. Estradiol benzoate in dosages greater than 1.0 micrograms delayed testicular descent, reduced the size and hormone responsiveness of reproductive organs, and decreased sexual behavior in a dose-dependent manner. The 10,000-microgram dosage of neonatal TP delayed testicular descent and reduced sexual behavior to levels near those of the 10--100 micrograms EB groups, but it produced no significant penile or accessory organ changes. Neither reduced peripheral organ development nor inhibited neonatal testicular secretions fully explain reductions in male behavior following large dosages of neonatal TP. Neonatal androgen may reduce the responsiveness of central nervous system neurons governing male sexual behavior after being converted to estrogen or by directly altering steroid receptor systems.", "PMID": 457952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13012", "title": "Modulation of behavioral inhibition in appetitive extinction following manipulation of adrenal steroids in rats: implications for involvement of the hippocampus.", "content": "Corticosterone, the principal glucocorticoid in the rat, binds selectively to the CA1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus where the hormone has been demonstrated to exert a moderate chronic suppression of spontaneous activity. In the first experiment of the current study, the functional behavioral significance of this hormone--brain interaction was investigated in the extinction of an appetitive runway response in normal rats and those with lesions of the hippocampus. During extinction, half of the animals in each group were given daily subcutaneous injections of corticosterone. Whie the classical retardation effect of hippocampal lesions on appetitive extinction was replicated, hormone treatment was without effect in normal or hippocampally damaged subjects. The absence of a hormone effect in normals was primarily attributed to a saturated limited-binding system operating in the normal animal. Experiment 2 tested this notion, repeating the first experiment, with adrenal-ectomized (ADX), ADX + corticosterone replacement, and normal groups of animals. Adrenalectomy produced a striking facilitation of extinction which was speculated to be the result of a hyperactive inhibitory neural organ free from an inhibitory endocrine feedback. Corticosterone treatment normalized the progress of extinction in ADX animals, providing support for the afore-mentioned speculation. In the normal animal, it appears that a stress-induced surge in hormone level interacts with a limited-capacity neural binding to produce a transient dynamic range of behavioral disinhibition, perhaps promoting persistence during initial stages of frustrative nonreward in moderate stress tasks.", "contents": "Modulation of behavioral inhibition in appetitive extinction following manipulation of adrenal steroids in rats: implications for involvement of the hippocampus. Corticosterone, the principal glucocorticoid in the rat, binds selectively to the CA1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus where the hormone has been demonstrated to exert a moderate chronic suppression of spontaneous activity. In the first experiment of the current study, the functional behavioral significance of this hormone--brain interaction was investigated in the extinction of an appetitive runway response in normal rats and those with lesions of the hippocampus. During extinction, half of the animals in each group were given daily subcutaneous injections of corticosterone. Whie the classical retardation effect of hippocampal lesions on appetitive extinction was replicated, hormone treatment was without effect in normal or hippocampally damaged subjects. The absence of a hormone effect in normals was primarily attributed to a saturated limited-binding system operating in the normal animal. Experiment 2 tested this notion, repeating the first experiment, with adrenal-ectomized (ADX), ADX + corticosterone replacement, and normal groups of animals. Adrenalectomy produced a striking facilitation of extinction which was speculated to be the result of a hyperactive inhibitory neural organ free from an inhibitory endocrine feedback. Corticosterone treatment normalized the progress of extinction in ADX animals, providing support for the afore-mentioned speculation. In the normal animal, it appears that a stress-induced surge in hormone level interacts with a limited-capacity neural binding to produce a transient dynamic range of behavioral disinhibition, perhaps promoting persistence during initial stages of frustrative nonreward in moderate stress tasks.", "PMID": 457953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13013", "title": "Evidence that probing the vaginal cervix is analgesic in rats, using an operant paradigm.", "content": "Probing against the vaginal cervix (CP) suppresses responses to noxious stimulation in rats. The first experiment rules out the possibility that this effect is due to CP-induced immobilization. All rats first learned to press a panel, thus terminating noxious skin shock. Then they either received CP (experimentals) or did not (controls) when they pressed the panel during skin shock that was inescapable. The controls soon showed extinction of the panel-press response, whereas the experimentals continued pressing the panel and obtaining CP, for significantly more trials. The rats thus performed an operant response for CP at a time before CP could have blocked their movement. The second experiment argues against the possiblity that CP exerts its effect by \"distracting\" the rats from the skin shock. The rats received inescapable skin shock which continued for 7 sec after each panel-press response. During this shock one group received CP, and another received perineal probing (\"distraction\" control). The panel-press latency was significantly shorter in the CP group than in the perineal group. Latency in a control group, in which shock was terminated as soon as the rats pressed the panel, did not differ significantly from the CP group. Latency in another control group, in which the shock persisted for 7 sec after the rats pressed the panel with no probing being applied, was not significantly different from that of the perineal-probing group but was significantly longer than latency in the CP group. Thus the present studies suggest that CP is indeed analgesic and that this effect of CP is mediated by neither movement inhibition nor distraction.", "contents": "Evidence that probing the vaginal cervix is analgesic in rats, using an operant paradigm. Probing against the vaginal cervix (CP) suppresses responses to noxious stimulation in rats. The first experiment rules out the possibility that this effect is due to CP-induced immobilization. All rats first learned to press a panel, thus terminating noxious skin shock. Then they either received CP (experimentals) or did not (controls) when they pressed the panel during skin shock that was inescapable. The controls soon showed extinction of the panel-press response, whereas the experimentals continued pressing the panel and obtaining CP, for significantly more trials. The rats thus performed an operant response for CP at a time before CP could have blocked their movement. The second experiment argues against the possiblity that CP exerts its effect by \"distracting\" the rats from the skin shock. The rats received inescapable skin shock which continued for 7 sec after each panel-press response. During this shock one group received CP, and another received perineal probing (\"distraction\" control). The panel-press latency was significantly shorter in the CP group than in the perineal group. Latency in a control group, in which shock was terminated as soon as the rats pressed the panel, did not differ significantly from the CP group. Latency in another control group, in which the shock persisted for 7 sec after the rats pressed the panel with no probing being applied, was not significantly different from that of the perineal-probing group but was significantly longer than latency in the CP group. Thus the present studies suggest that CP is indeed analgesic and that this effect of CP is mediated by neither movement inhibition nor distraction.", "PMID": 457954} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13014", "title": "Effects of lesions of the amygdala, preoptic area, and hypothalamus on estradiol-induced activity in the female rat.", "content": "Lesions of the anterior hypothalamic nucleus and the medial preoptic area sharply attenuated enhancement of wheel running by estradiol benzoate in ovariectomized female rats. Lesions of the corticomedial amygdala had no effect on this behavior. The hormonal effects on activity were largely independent of any changes in body weight. Results of this first experiment indicated that the anterior hypothalamic and medial preoptic areas are critically involved in the induction of activity by estradiol. However, this experiment provided no support for suggestions that the corticomedial amygdala inhibits those structures that mediate the estrogenic induction of activity. In the second experiment, food deprivation was used to stimulate activity. Results of this experiment suggested that the reduction in the ability of estradiol to induce activity following anterior hypothalamic and medial preoptic lesions does not reflect a general inability to become more active.", "contents": "Effects of lesions of the amygdala, preoptic area, and hypothalamus on estradiol-induced activity in the female rat. Lesions of the anterior hypothalamic nucleus and the medial preoptic area sharply attenuated enhancement of wheel running by estradiol benzoate in ovariectomized female rats. Lesions of the corticomedial amygdala had no effect on this behavior. The hormonal effects on activity were largely independent of any changes in body weight. Results of this first experiment indicated that the anterior hypothalamic and medial preoptic areas are critically involved in the induction of activity by estradiol. However, this experiment provided no support for suggestions that the corticomedial amygdala inhibits those structures that mediate the estrogenic induction of activity. In the second experiment, food deprivation was used to stimulate activity. Results of this experiment suggested that the reduction in the ability of estradiol to induce activity following anterior hypothalamic and medial preoptic lesions does not reflect a general inability to become more active.", "PMID": 457955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13015", "title": "Development of high resolution computed tomography of the spinal cord.", "content": "Computed tomography of the spinal cord was a natural development of total body scanning. Much time and effort was spent in order to visualize the spinal cord and the various conditions affecting it. This was achieved by using an EMI CT5005 scanner and a series of step by step modifications and improvements to obtain a very high degree of resolution. The large variety of intraspinal lesions seen at the Montreal Neurological Hospital allowed us, by selecting appropriate cases, to determine the value of CT of the spinal cord.", "contents": "Development of high resolution computed tomography of the spinal cord. Computed tomography of the spinal cord was a natural development of total body scanning. Much time and effort was spent in order to visualize the spinal cord and the various conditions affecting it. This was achieved by using an EMI CT5005 scanner and a series of step by step modifications and improvements to obtain a very high degree of resolution. The large variety of intraspinal lesions seen at the Montreal Neurological Hospital allowed us, by selecting appropriate cases, to determine the value of CT of the spinal cord.", "PMID": 457956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13016", "title": "Assessment of regional myocardial perfusion by positron emission tomography after intracoronary administration of Gallium-68 labeled albumin microspheres.", "content": "Positron emission computed tomography (ECT) of the normal and ischemic canine heart was undertaken in eight anesthetized dogs after the intracoronary administration of 68gallium labeled human serum albumin microspheres (SAM). Bolus doses of 200 muCi of 68Ga-SAM were injected into the left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex coronary arteries of four normal dogs and four dogs undergoing LAD ligation. Positron imaging of 68Ga-SAM distribution was performed with a multicrystal positron camera and computer reconstruction. In normal dogs, five to six axial transverse section images of the heart demonstrated the transmural distribution of 68Ga-SAM in an annular pattern around the left ventricular cavity. In dogs with LAD ligation, perfusion defects in the anterolateral wall and septum were observed in tomographic cuts through ischemic areas. In conclusion, these studies demonstrate the feasibility of positron ECT imaging of the heart after intracoronary administration of 68Ga-SAM.", "contents": "Assessment of regional myocardial perfusion by positron emission tomography after intracoronary administration of Gallium-68 labeled albumin microspheres. Positron emission computed tomography (ECT) of the normal and ischemic canine heart was undertaken in eight anesthetized dogs after the intracoronary administration of 68gallium labeled human serum albumin microspheres (SAM). Bolus doses of 200 muCi of 68Ga-SAM were injected into the left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex coronary arteries of four normal dogs and four dogs undergoing LAD ligation. Positron imaging of 68Ga-SAM distribution was performed with a multicrystal positron camera and computer reconstruction. In normal dogs, five to six axial transverse section images of the heart demonstrated the transmural distribution of 68Ga-SAM in an annular pattern around the left ventricular cavity. In dogs with LAD ligation, perfusion defects in the anterolateral wall and septum were observed in tomographic cuts through ischemic areas. In conclusion, these studies demonstrate the feasibility of positron ECT imaging of the heart after intracoronary administration of 68Ga-SAM.", "PMID": 457957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13017", "title": "Radiotherapeutic applications of pelvic computed tomography.", "content": "One hundred and four computed tomography (CT) examinations were performed on 72 consecutive radiotherapy patients with pelvic malignancies. Prostate, bladder, rectosigmoid, gynecologic, and lymphomatous primaries were studied. Computed tomography demonstrated tumor volumes larger than clinically expected in 40% and tumor extension into unsuspected tissues in 43%. Based on CT, staging was revised upward in 25%. Computed tomography aided initial treatment planning in 61%. In 27 patients having post-therapy scans, changes in tumor volume were demonstrated in 59%. Modifications in therapy were made for 30% of the follow-up group. Computed tomography is recommended as an important adjunct in the workup and management of radiotherapy patients with pelvic malignancies.", "contents": "Radiotherapeutic applications of pelvic computed tomography. One hundred and four computed tomography (CT) examinations were performed on 72 consecutive radiotherapy patients with pelvic malignancies. Prostate, bladder, rectosigmoid, gynecologic, and lymphomatous primaries were studied. Computed tomography demonstrated tumor volumes larger than clinically expected in 40% and tumor extension into unsuspected tissues in 43%. Based on CT, staging was revised upward in 25%. Computed tomography aided initial treatment planning in 61%. In 27 patients having post-therapy scans, changes in tumor volume were demonstrated in 59%. Modifications in therapy were made for 30% of the follow-up group. Computed tomography is recommended as an important adjunct in the workup and management of radiotherapy patients with pelvic malignancies.", "PMID": 457958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13018", "title": "Computed tomography of the normal adrenal glands: correlative study with autopsy specimens.", "content": "Computed tomography (CT) visualization of both adrenal glands was possible in 99 of 100 cases using a fast (2 sec) scanner. Previously reported CT variants of normal adrenal glands correlated well with transverse sections of 20 autopsy specimens.", "contents": "Computed tomography of the normal adrenal glands: correlative study with autopsy specimens. Computed tomography (CT) visualization of both adrenal glands was possible in 99 of 100 cases using a fast (2 sec) scanner. Previously reported CT variants of normal adrenal glands correlated well with transverse sections of 20 autopsy specimens.", "PMID": 457959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13019", "title": "Intraureteral tumor demonstrated by computed tomography.", "content": "Two cases of papillary carcinoma of the bladder are presented in which the ureter could not be demonstrated by standard radiographic techniques. Computed tomography (CT) allowed identification of the tumor filled ureter. Intraureteral papillary tumor has a radiographic density (CT number) above that of water but less than that of the enveloping ureter.", "contents": "Intraureteral tumor demonstrated by computed tomography. Two cases of papillary carcinoma of the bladder are presented in which the ureter could not be demonstrated by standard radiographic techniques. Computed tomography (CT) allowed identification of the tumor filled ureter. Intraureteral papillary tumor has a radiographic density (CT number) above that of water but less than that of the enveloping ureter.", "PMID": 457960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13020", "title": "Statistical detection of nonvisible isodense subdural fluid collections.", "content": "An analytic method for detecting isodense subdural fluid collections from computed tomography (CT) scan pixel attenuation data is presented. Analysis of 44 CT scan levels from 8 patients with isodense subdural hematomas (ISDH) and 50 CT scan levels from 15 patients without ISDH indicates 6% false positive and 3% false negative errors if the analysis is restricted to noncontrast CT scans that demonstrate subcalvarial bilateral cortical attenuation symmetry in the pictorial display.", "contents": "Statistical detection of nonvisible isodense subdural fluid collections. An analytic method for detecting isodense subdural fluid collections from computed tomography (CT) scan pixel attenuation data is presented. Analysis of 44 CT scan levels from 8 patients with isodense subdural hematomas (ISDH) and 50 CT scan levels from 15 patients without ISDH indicates 6% false positive and 3% false negative errors if the analysis is restricted to noncontrast CT scans that demonstrate subcalvarial bilateral cortical attenuation symmetry in the pictorial display.", "PMID": 457961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13021", "title": "Normal and high accuracy computed tomography of the brain: dose and imaging considerations.", "content": "The high accuracy scanning mode of the EMI CT1010 scanner generates scans with imaging characteristics superior to those produced in the normal accuracy mode. The comparative dosimetry of normal and high accuracy scans is presented, along with an analysis of the image quality of the two scanning modes. High accuracy scanning is an effective adjunct in patients with difficult lesions in the cerebral hemispheres.", "contents": "Normal and high accuracy computed tomography of the brain: dose and imaging considerations. The high accuracy scanning mode of the EMI CT1010 scanner generates scans with imaging characteristics superior to those produced in the normal accuracy mode. The comparative dosimetry of normal and high accuracy scans is presented, along with an analysis of the image quality of the two scanning modes. High accuracy scanning is an effective adjunct in patients with difficult lesions in the cerebral hemispheres.", "PMID": 457962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13022", "title": "Orbital computed tomography: calcific densities of the posterior globe.", "content": "Computed tomography's (CT) marked sensitivity to calcium increases its usefulness in the workup of certain ocular lesions. The CT findings in five calcific ocular lesions are described. The relatively limited differential diagnosis of such a finding is discussed.", "contents": "Orbital computed tomography: calcific densities of the posterior globe. Computed tomography's (CT) marked sensitivity to calcium increases its usefulness in the workup of certain ocular lesions. The CT findings in five calcific ocular lesions are described. The relatively limited differential diagnosis of such a finding is discussed.", "PMID": 457963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13023", "title": "The temperature dependence of computed tomography attenuation values.", "content": "Attention is drawn to the variation in the computed tomography (CT) attenuation value of water with temperature. A difference of 5 to 6 Hounsfield units (1,000 scale) between typical room and body temperatures can be predicted as a consequence of the change in the density of water and was confirmed experimentally. This difference may be of significance in the calibration of CT machines, in the determination of \"absolute\" CT attenuation values for body tissues and fluids, and in comparing tissue attenuation values obtained in vivo and in vitro.", "contents": "The temperature dependence of computed tomography attenuation values. Attention is drawn to the variation in the computed tomography (CT) attenuation value of water with temperature. A difference of 5 to 6 Hounsfield units (1,000 scale) between typical room and body temperatures can be predicted as a consequence of the change in the density of water and was confirmed experimentally. This difference may be of significance in the calibration of CT machines, in the determination of \"absolute\" CT attenuation values for body tissues and fluids, and in comparing tissue attenuation values obtained in vivo and in vitro.", "PMID": 457964} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13024", "title": "Nonlinear polychromatic and noise artifacts in x-ray computed tomography images.", "content": "The variance of the image noise in computed X-ray transmission tomography (CT) due to quantum noise is in a first approximation a nonlinear function of X-ray attenuation. Beam hardening in CT is also a nonlinear function of attenuation. We present a theoretical study of both phenomena. Computer simulations and numerical results show that both nonlinear dependencies have quite similar effects on image quality. We also show how the two-dimensional distribution of the noise variance in a CT image is a weighted superposition of images obtained by backprojecting integer powers of the noiseless projection data corresponding to the scanned object. The streak-like pattern in the image noise due to the anisotropic nature of the noise cross-correlation function is discussed. We also discuss how these nonlinear phenomena affect noise filtering and tissue characterization using statistical parameters.", "contents": "Nonlinear polychromatic and noise artifacts in x-ray computed tomography images. The variance of the image noise in computed X-ray transmission tomography (CT) due to quantum noise is in a first approximation a nonlinear function of X-ray attenuation. Beam hardening in CT is also a nonlinear function of attenuation. We present a theoretical study of both phenomena. Computer simulations and numerical results show that both nonlinear dependencies have quite similar effects on image quality. We also show how the two-dimensional distribution of the noise variance in a CT image is a weighted superposition of images obtained by backprojecting integer powers of the noiseless projection data corresponding to the scanned object. The streak-like pattern in the image noise due to the anisotropic nature of the noise cross-correlation function is discussed. We also discuss how these nonlinear phenomena affect noise filtering and tissue characterization using statistical parameters.", "PMID": 457966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13025", "title": "Mesial temporal sclerosis detected by computed tomography.", "content": "We report a case of an epileptic patient in whom unilateral mesial temperal sclerosis was detected by computed tomography in the form of an arcuate, nonenhancing calcification. Temporal lobectomy was followed by relief of the seizures.", "contents": "Mesial temporal sclerosis detected by computed tomography. We report a case of an epileptic patient in whom unilateral mesial temperal sclerosis was detected by computed tomography in the form of an arcuate, nonenhancing calcification. Temporal lobectomy was followed by relief of the seizures.", "PMID": 457967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13026", "title": "Carcinoma of choroid plexus in a premature infant.", "content": "A histologically proven case of choroid plexus carcinoma in a 5-week-old infant is presented. Computed tomography showed invasion through the ventricular wall, suggesting its malignant nature.", "contents": "Carcinoma of choroid plexus in a premature infant. A histologically proven case of choroid plexus carcinoma in a 5-week-old infant is presented. Computed tomography showed invasion through the ventricular wall, suggesting its malignant nature.", "PMID": 457968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13027", "title": "Cerebral granulomatous angiitis simulating brain tumor.", "content": "A case of surgically verified cerebral granulomatous angiitis, which was mistaken for a brain tumor on computed tomography, is reported. The focal, enhancing lesion was due to multiple confluent infarction caused by the angiitic process.", "contents": "Cerebral granulomatous angiitis simulating brain tumor. A case of surgically verified cerebral granulomatous angiitis, which was mistaken for a brain tumor on computed tomography, is reported. The focal, enhancing lesion was due to multiple confluent infarction caused by the angiitic process.", "PMID": 457969} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13028", "title": "Deep vascular congestion in dural venous thrombosis on computed tomography.", "content": "In a 64-year-old female patient with verified dural venous thrombosis, postcontrast computed tomography showed dilatation of the transcerebral medullary veins, a feature that is probably pathognomonic.", "contents": "Deep vascular congestion in dural venous thrombosis on computed tomography. In a 64-year-old female patient with verified dural venous thrombosis, postcontrast computed tomography showed dilatation of the transcerebral medullary veins, a feature that is probably pathognomonic.", "PMID": 457970} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13029", "title": "Cystic Hodgkin's lymphoma of the thymus: computed tomography appearance.", "content": "We report a case of cystic Hodgkin's disease of the thymus that was evaluated preoperatively by computed tomography (CT). Although this is an uncommon cause of an anterior mediastinal mass, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis along with cystic thymoma and cystic treatomas, since the treatment of the these lesions is dramatically different. The CT appearance and pathology of this lesion are discussed.", "contents": "Cystic Hodgkin's lymphoma of the thymus: computed tomography appearance. We report a case of cystic Hodgkin's disease of the thymus that was evaluated preoperatively by computed tomography (CT). Although this is an uncommon cause of an anterior mediastinal mass, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis along with cystic thymoma and cystic treatomas, since the treatment of the these lesions is dramatically different. The CT appearance and pathology of this lesion are discussed.", "PMID": 457971} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13030", "title": "Increased attenuation value in a hydropic gallbladder.", "content": "A case is presented in which the presence of sludge in a hydropic gallbladder altered both the usual sonographic and computed tomographic appearance of the gallbladder.", "contents": "Increased attenuation value in a hydropic gallbladder. A case is presented in which the presence of sludge in a hydropic gallbladder altered both the usual sonographic and computed tomographic appearance of the gallbladder.", "PMID": 457972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13031", "title": "Computed tomography in the evaluation of a pelvic tumor.", "content": "A case of a pelvic tumor evaluated preoperatively by computed tomography (CT) is reported. Conventional radiology suggested pelvic lipomatosis, but CT revealed a solid tumor without fat deposits.", "contents": "Computed tomography in the evaluation of a pelvic tumor. A case of a pelvic tumor evaluated preoperatively by computed tomography (CT) is reported. Conventional radiology suggested pelvic lipomatosis, but CT revealed a solid tumor without fat deposits.", "PMID": 457973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13032", "title": "A sledge device for the accurate movement of small animals in a computed tomography scanner.", "content": "A simple sledge device is described for millimeter accurate movements of small animals through an EMI CT5005 scanner.", "contents": "A sledge device for the accurate movement of small animals in a computed tomography scanner. A simple sledge device is described for millimeter accurate movements of small animals through an EMI CT5005 scanner.", "PMID": 457974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13033", "title": "Rumen epithelium cell proliferation accelerated by propionate and acetate.", "content": "Ruminal papillae were biopsied from fasted adult sheep given 18 m mole/kg body weight per day of sodium propionate or sodium acetate intraruminally via fistula. The mitotic index of the epithelial cells in the papillae was estimated for the mitogenic effect of the acids. Before the administrations, mitotic indices were lower than .53%. They increased after a few days' propionate-administration, then declined. The peak values appeared on 2 or 4 days of the administration and were 1.64%, 1.38%, 1.73%, and 1.54% in four trials. Mitotic indices also increased from acetate and declined. The peak values appeared on 3 or 4 days of the administration and were 2.04%, 2.49%, 1.70%, and 2.03% in four trials. Mitotic indices of the control sheep given the same amount of .9% saline were lower than .28%. The mitogenic effect of propionate and acetate on the rumen epithelial cells was apparent, but it seems to be weaker than that of butyrate judged from the relatively slow rise of the index in this study.", "contents": "Rumen epithelium cell proliferation accelerated by propionate and acetate. Ruminal papillae were biopsied from fasted adult sheep given 18 m mole/kg body weight per day of sodium propionate or sodium acetate intraruminally via fistula. The mitotic index of the epithelial cells in the papillae was estimated for the mitogenic effect of the acids. Before the administrations, mitotic indices were lower than .53%. They increased after a few days' propionate-administration, then declined. The peak values appeared on 2 or 4 days of the administration and were 1.64%, 1.38%, 1.73%, and 1.54% in four trials. Mitotic indices also increased from acetate and declined. The peak values appeared on 3 or 4 days of the administration and were 2.04%, 2.49%, 1.70%, and 2.03% in four trials. Mitotic indices of the control sheep given the same amount of .9% saline were lower than .28%. The mitogenic effect of propionate and acetate on the rumen epithelial cells was apparent, but it seems to be weaker than that of butyrate judged from the relatively slow rise of the index in this study.", "PMID": 457976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13034", "title": "Effect of number of young born (litter size) on milk yield of goats: role for placental lactogen.", "content": "Relationships of number of fetuses, placental mass, and lactogenic activity of plasma to development of mammary gland during pregnancy and of litter size to milk yield were examined in British Saanen goats. In late pregnancy lactogenic activity, measured in plasma by radioreceptor assay, increased with number of fetuses. Total weight of placentomes increased with total fetal weight and, hence, fetal number. The weight of the lobulo-alveolar component of the udders was correlated positively with placental mass and fetal number. In hand -milked goats which bore triplets or twins, mean milk yield was 47% and 27%, respectively, higher than in mothers of single kids after correction for lactation number. Milk yield was correlated with the weekly mean of placental lactogen titers between wk 11 and term. This supports the view that placental lactogen has a significant role in the control of normal mammary development and function in goats.", "contents": "Effect of number of young born (litter size) on milk yield of goats: role for placental lactogen. Relationships of number of fetuses, placental mass, and lactogenic activity of plasma to development of mammary gland during pregnancy and of litter size to milk yield were examined in British Saanen goats. In late pregnancy lactogenic activity, measured in plasma by radioreceptor assay, increased with number of fetuses. Total weight of placentomes increased with total fetal weight and, hence, fetal number. The weight of the lobulo-alveolar component of the udders was correlated positively with placental mass and fetal number. In hand -milked goats which bore triplets or twins, mean milk yield was 47% and 27%, respectively, higher than in mothers of single kids after correction for lactation number. Milk yield was correlated with the weekly mean of placental lactogen titers between wk 11 and term. This supports the view that placental lactogen has a significant role in the control of normal mammary development and function in goats.", "PMID": 457977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13035", "title": "Estrous cycle patterns in cattle monitored by electrical resistance and milk progesterone.", "content": "An electronic probe with parallel stainless steel electrodes was designed to measure changes in electrical resistance in the anterior vagina associated with increased cervical mucus secretion at estrus. Three groups of Holsteins were probed, and a sample of residual milk after milking was taken for progesterone assay every 2nd day for 28 to 40 days. Group I consisted of 29 cycling virgin heifers, Group II consisted of 24 lactating cows in the Cornell herd, and Group III consisted of 62 lactating cows in three commercial herds. Lactating cows were 26 or more days postpartum when sampling began. In Group I, 77% of the measurements at the ventral surface of the anterior vagina were lowest on the day of estrus and correlated well with days KaMaR Heatmount Detectors were triggered or chalk was erased. In Groups II and III, average electrical resistance also was minimal at estrus and was correlated .92 to .99 with average milk progesterone during the 4 days preceding and including estrus. The electronic probe appears to enable one to detect which cows are cycling normally and to aid in determining when to expect estrus.", "contents": "Estrous cycle patterns in cattle monitored by electrical resistance and milk progesterone. An electronic probe with parallel stainless steel electrodes was designed to measure changes in electrical resistance in the anterior vagina associated with increased cervical mucus secretion at estrus. Three groups of Holsteins were probed, and a sample of residual milk after milking was taken for progesterone assay every 2nd day for 28 to 40 days. Group I consisted of 29 cycling virgin heifers, Group II consisted of 24 lactating cows in the Cornell herd, and Group III consisted of 62 lactating cows in three commercial herds. Lactating cows were 26 or more days postpartum when sampling began. In Group I, 77% of the measurements at the ventral surface of the anterior vagina were lowest on the day of estrus and correlated well with days KaMaR Heatmount Detectors were triggered or chalk was erased. In Groups II and III, average electrical resistance also was minimal at estrus and was correlated .92 to .99 with average milk progesterone during the 4 days preceding and including estrus. The electronic probe appears to enable one to detect which cows are cycling normally and to aid in determining when to expect estrus.", "PMID": 457978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13036", "title": "Pregnancy rate in dairy cows inseminated on the basis of electronic probe measurements.", "content": "A new vaginal probe with two pairs of parallel electrodes 90 degrees apart was designed with a switching arrangement so that electrical resistance (ohms) of the dorsal and the ventral areas of the anterior vagina could be monitored separately during the estrous cycle. Three inseminators probed cows during February--April, 1977, in nine herds in stanchion barn housing. Cows not seen in estrus by 40 to 60 dyas after calving were probed every 3rd day. At each dairyman's option normal cows with a low porbe reading were inseminated. Controls consisted of cows seen in estrus by the dairyman and reported for insemination in the routine manner. The diagnosed pregnancy rate for 86 first service controls was 49% versus 52% for 58 cows not seen in estrus, but identified by low probe readings. Cows varied in electrical resistance at breeding, but the fact that pregnancy rates were equivalent in the two groups is interpreted to mean that the probe was as effective in identifying cows suitable for insemination as was visual observation of estrus by dairymen.", "contents": "Pregnancy rate in dairy cows inseminated on the basis of electronic probe measurements. A new vaginal probe with two pairs of parallel electrodes 90 degrees apart was designed with a switching arrangement so that electrical resistance (ohms) of the dorsal and the ventral areas of the anterior vagina could be monitored separately during the estrous cycle. Three inseminators probed cows during February--April, 1977, in nine herds in stanchion barn housing. Cows not seen in estrus by 40 to 60 dyas after calving were probed every 3rd day. At each dairyman's option normal cows with a low porbe reading were inseminated. Controls consisted of cows seen in estrus by the dairyman and reported for insemination in the routine manner. The diagnosed pregnancy rate for 86 first service controls was 49% versus 52% for 58 cows not seen in estrus, but identified by low probe readings. Cows varied in electrical resistance at breeding, but the fact that pregnancy rates were equivalent in the two groups is interpreted to mean that the probe was as effective in identifying cows suitable for insemination as was visual observation of estrus by dairymen.", "PMID": 457979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13037", "title": "Use of total whey constituents for human food.", "content": "In recent years, utilization of whey has been felt to be an inexorable necessity in view of the current requirements for alleviating environmental pollution as well as using available nutrients for feeding the malnourished segments of human population. Presence of several nutritionally important constituents having excellent functional characteristics enhances opportunities for a wide-range application of whey and whey constituents in the food industry. Technology is being developed to utilize whey for the manufacture of a variety of new food products as well as for the replacement of comparatively costly food ingredients. Various aspects of utilization of whey for human nutrition are described.", "contents": "Use of total whey constituents for human food. In recent years, utilization of whey has been felt to be an inexorable necessity in view of the current requirements for alleviating environmental pollution as well as using available nutrients for feeding the malnourished segments of human population. Presence of several nutritionally important constituents having excellent functional characteristics enhances opportunities for a wide-range application of whey and whey constituents in the food industry. Technology is being developed to utilize whey for the manufacture of a variety of new food products as well as for the replacement of comparatively costly food ingredients. Various aspects of utilization of whey for human nutrition are described.", "PMID": 457980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13038", "title": "Metabolism of ornithine in perfused goat udder.", "content": "Four lactating goat mammary glands were perfused for several hours in the presence of ornithine labeled with 1-carbon-14 and delta-nitrogen-15 or 5-hydrogen-3 and received adequate quantities of glucose, acetate, and amino acids. For the first label carbon and nitrogen were incorporated in casein of milk. After isolation of the casein amino acids the carbon-14 was incorporated into proline only while nitrogen-15 was localized in aspartic acid, glutamic acid, alanine, serine, glycine, and the branched-chain amino acids. In the experiments with hydrogen-3 labeled ornithine, no reversible transamination of ornithine could be measured during passage through the udder. After incubation in vitro of goat blood in the presence of the labeled ornithine, no nitrogen-15 could be detected in other free amino acids of plasma. Ornithine is transaminated by the udder itself. The delta-amino group of ornithine contributed nitrogen for the synthesis of several nonessential amino acids in the mammary gland.", "contents": "Metabolism of ornithine in perfused goat udder. Four lactating goat mammary glands were perfused for several hours in the presence of ornithine labeled with 1-carbon-14 and delta-nitrogen-15 or 5-hydrogen-3 and received adequate quantities of glucose, acetate, and amino acids. For the first label carbon and nitrogen were incorporated in casein of milk. After isolation of the casein amino acids the carbon-14 was incorporated into proline only while nitrogen-15 was localized in aspartic acid, glutamic acid, alanine, serine, glycine, and the branched-chain amino acids. In the experiments with hydrogen-3 labeled ornithine, no reversible transamination of ornithine could be measured during passage through the udder. After incubation in vitro of goat blood in the presence of the labeled ornithine, no nitrogen-15 could be detected in other free amino acids of plasma. Ornithine is transaminated by the udder itself. The delta-amino group of ornithine contributed nitrogen for the synthesis of several nonessential amino acids in the mammary gland.", "PMID": 457981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13039", "title": "Plasma retinol transport and clearance in hypervitaminosis A.", "content": "Effects of mild and severe hypervitaminosis A on retinol transport and clearance were studied in mature ewes. Excessive vitamin A intake was assoicated with high concentrations of vitamin A in plasma and liver, with elevated serum enzymes, with decreased feed consumption and packed cell volume, and with epithelial hyperplasia. Retinol transport in plasma increased 6- to 8-fold with excessive dietary vitamin A, was greater with mild hypervitaminosis A, and increased exponentially with vitamin A concentration in plasma. Clearance of retinol from plasma increased 2-fold with hypervitaminosis A, exhibited a greater response in the mild group, and increased linearly with vitamin A concentration in plasma. The relationship of clearance to vitamin A concentration in liver was described best by a power function. Retinol clearance represents a mechanism to maintain vitamin A concentration in plasma and may be most effective below vitamin A concentrations of 135 microgram/dl plasma. With severe hypervitaminosis A, massive vitamin A accumulates in liver leading to hepatic dysfunction and a resultant decrease in retinol clearance from plasma.", "contents": "Plasma retinol transport and clearance in hypervitaminosis A. Effects of mild and severe hypervitaminosis A on retinol transport and clearance were studied in mature ewes. Excessive vitamin A intake was assoicated with high concentrations of vitamin A in plasma and liver, with elevated serum enzymes, with decreased feed consumption and packed cell volume, and with epithelial hyperplasia. Retinol transport in plasma increased 6- to 8-fold with excessive dietary vitamin A, was greater with mild hypervitaminosis A, and increased exponentially with vitamin A concentration in plasma. Clearance of retinol from plasma increased 2-fold with hypervitaminosis A, exhibited a greater response in the mild group, and increased linearly with vitamin A concentration in plasma. The relationship of clearance to vitamin A concentration in liver was described best by a power function. Retinol clearance represents a mechanism to maintain vitamin A concentration in plasma and may be most effective below vitamin A concentrations of 135 microgram/dl plasma. With severe hypervitaminosis A, massive vitamin A accumulates in liver leading to hepatic dysfunction and a resultant decrease in retinol clearance from plasma.", "PMID": 457982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13040", "title": "Response of lactating cows to 300 mg of supplemental vitamin E daily.", "content": "Ten Holstein cows in mid-lactation which had been fed only stored feeds for several years were paired on milk production. One cow from each pair was assigned to either the control or group treated with supplemental vitamin E for a 12-wk experiment. All cows were fed 3 kg alfalfa-brome hay, corn silage ad libitum, and concentrate at 1 kg/3 kg milk produced daily. This ration provided about 500 mg of vitamin E (total tocopherols) daily. Five cows were fed an additional 300 mg vitamin E daily as D-alpha-tocopherol acetate in their concentrate mix. Feeding the supplemental vitamin E increased the vitamin E content of milk fat 15 to 20% from 18 microgram/g fat to over 21 microgram/g fat. However, this change in vitamin E content of milk was not sufficient to improve the oxidative stability of the milk. Blood characteristics indicative of vitamin E status generally were unaffected by vitamin E supplementation although red cell hemolysis, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase of serum were lower in blood of supplemented cows.", "contents": "Response of lactating cows to 300 mg of supplemental vitamin E daily. Ten Holstein cows in mid-lactation which had been fed only stored feeds for several years were paired on milk production. One cow from each pair was assigned to either the control or group treated with supplemental vitamin E for a 12-wk experiment. All cows were fed 3 kg alfalfa-brome hay, corn silage ad libitum, and concentrate at 1 kg/3 kg milk produced daily. This ration provided about 500 mg of vitamin E (total tocopherols) daily. Five cows were fed an additional 300 mg vitamin E daily as D-alpha-tocopherol acetate in their concentrate mix. Feeding the supplemental vitamin E increased the vitamin E content of milk fat 15 to 20% from 18 microgram/g fat to over 21 microgram/g fat. However, this change in vitamin E content of milk was not sufficient to improve the oxidative stability of the milk. Blood characteristics indicative of vitamin E status generally were unaffected by vitamin E supplementation although red cell hemolysis, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase of serum were lower in blood of supplemented cows.", "PMID": 457983} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13041", "title": "Relationship of the estrous cycle to milk composition.", "content": "The relationship of the estrous cycle to milk composition was examined in 15 Holstein cows in first lactation which were approximately 45 days postpartum. Composite milk samples were collected twice daily and analyzed for progesterone, fat, protein, total solids, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and somatic cells. Milk progesterone was minimal (less than ng/ml) from day -1 to day 2 (day 0 = estrus) of the estrous cycle and then increased at a relatively constant rate through day 15. Milk yield and sodium and magnesium concentrations of the milk varied with days of the estrous cycle. Mean milk yield was highest and sodium and magnesium concentrations were lowest on day 1. However, sodium concentration of the milk was the only component that varied significantly during the 3 days centered on estrus (days -1, 0, and 1). No other milk component changed significantly during the estrous cycle. Although milk yield and composition varied during the estrous cycle, none of these components appeared to be a practical indicator of estrus.", "contents": "Relationship of the estrous cycle to milk composition. The relationship of the estrous cycle to milk composition was examined in 15 Holstein cows in first lactation which were approximately 45 days postpartum. Composite milk samples were collected twice daily and analyzed for progesterone, fat, protein, total solids, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and somatic cells. Milk progesterone was minimal (less than ng/ml) from day -1 to day 2 (day 0 = estrus) of the estrous cycle and then increased at a relatively constant rate through day 15. Milk yield and sodium and magnesium concentrations of the milk varied with days of the estrous cycle. Mean milk yield was highest and sodium and magnesium concentrations were lowest on day 1. However, sodium concentration of the milk was the only component that varied significantly during the 3 days centered on estrus (days -1, 0, and 1). No other milk component changed significantly during the estrous cycle. Although milk yield and composition varied during the estrous cycle, none of these components appeared to be a practical indicator of estrus.", "PMID": 457984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13042", "title": "Estrogen in plasma of parturient paretic and normal cows.", "content": "The endocrine factors associated with parturient paresis have not been defined totally. Estrogens stimulate uptake of calcium by bone. Since secretion of estrogen increases dramatically as parturition approaches, estrogen may be involved in homeostatic mechanisms regulating calcium metabolism. Plasma was collected for 30 days (-30) prepartum to 5 days (+5) postpartum from six Holstein and nine Jersey cows approaching three or more lactations. Of all cows, six Jerseys contracted parturient paresis. Estradiol and estrone were analyzed by radioimmunoassay, total calcium and total magnesium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and total phosphorus by colorimetry. Data were grouped into periods respresenting days -30 to -21, -20 to -11, -10 to -6, -5 to -4, -3 to -2, -1, 0 (parturition), +1, +2 to +3, and +4 to +5. Calcium in plasma was lower in parturient paresis cows on days +1 and +2 to +3, and magnesium was higher during the same periods but lower on days -4 to -5. Total phosphorus, estrone, and estradiol of normal cows and those with parturient paresis were not different. During the entire sampling period, phosphorus and estradiol were similar in both groups while magnesium was higher and calcium lower in cows with parturient paresis. Estrone was lower in cows with parturient paresis. Lower estrone in cows with parturient paresis may be predisposing for parturient paresis.", "contents": "Estrogen in plasma of parturient paretic and normal cows. The endocrine factors associated with parturient paresis have not been defined totally. Estrogens stimulate uptake of calcium by bone. Since secretion of estrogen increases dramatically as parturition approaches, estrogen may be involved in homeostatic mechanisms regulating calcium metabolism. Plasma was collected for 30 days (-30) prepartum to 5 days (+5) postpartum from six Holstein and nine Jersey cows approaching three or more lactations. Of all cows, six Jerseys contracted parturient paresis. Estradiol and estrone were analyzed by radioimmunoassay, total calcium and total magnesium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and total phosphorus by colorimetry. Data were grouped into periods respresenting days -30 to -21, -20 to -11, -10 to -6, -5 to -4, -3 to -2, -1, 0 (parturition), +1, +2 to +3, and +4 to +5. Calcium in plasma was lower in parturient paresis cows on days +1 and +2 to +3, and magnesium was higher during the same periods but lower on days -4 to -5. Total phosphorus, estrone, and estradiol of normal cows and those with parturient paresis were not different. During the entire sampling period, phosphorus and estradiol were similar in both groups while magnesium was higher and calcium lower in cows with parturient paresis. Estrone was lower in cows with parturient paresis. Lower estrone in cows with parturient paresis may be predisposing for parturient paresis.", "PMID": 457985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13043", "title": "Effects of dietary zinc upon tissue zinc and percent unsaturated plasma-zinc binding capacity.", "content": "Calves were fed 520 ppm zinc for 21 days, then placed on a low zinc diet (20 ppm zinc) for 35 days to determine the biological availability of zinc reserves of tissue. Concentrations of zinc in liver and kidney were elevated greatly by feeding high dietary zinc for 21 days and continued to increase with time. On the low zinc diet, the tissue burden of zinc decreased within 35 days to those comparable to calves initially fed low zinc. Likewise, both zinc in plasma and percent capacity of unsaturated plasma for binding zinc were near negative controls 21 days after removal of calves from high zinc diets. Tissue stores of zinc will not maintain adequate zinc in blood for extended periods, and hence, they probably will not sustain optimal feed intakes and growth rates of calves on low-intakes of zinc.", "contents": "Effects of dietary zinc upon tissue zinc and percent unsaturated plasma-zinc binding capacity. Calves were fed 520 ppm zinc for 21 days, then placed on a low zinc diet (20 ppm zinc) for 35 days to determine the biological availability of zinc reserves of tissue. Concentrations of zinc in liver and kidney were elevated greatly by feeding high dietary zinc for 21 days and continued to increase with time. On the low zinc diet, the tissue burden of zinc decreased within 35 days to those comparable to calves initially fed low zinc. Likewise, both zinc in plasma and percent capacity of unsaturated plasma for binding zinc were near negative controls 21 days after removal of calves from high zinc diets. Tissue stores of zinc will not maintain adequate zinc in blood for extended periods, and hence, they probably will not sustain optimal feed intakes and growth rates of calves on low-intakes of zinc.", "PMID": 457987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13044", "title": "Sister chromatid exchange in chromosomes of cattle (Bos taurus).", "content": "Lymhocytes from clinically healthy Holstein animals (8 males and 23 females) were cultured in media containing 5-bromodeoxyuridine (10 microgram/ml) for two cycles of deoxyribonucleic acid replication (48 h). The exchange of sister chromatids per cell varied from 1 to 16 with a mean of 5.4 and a standard deviation of 2.1 in 603 differentially stained metaphase chromosome spreads. The major fraction of exchanges in the X chromosome were located in the region of the subcentromeric G negative bands q1 and q2. When the cells were pulse labeled with tritium labeled thymidine (1 muCi/ml) for the last 6 h of the cell cycle, the rate of exchange was higher in the late replicating X chromosome (facultative heterochromatin) in comparison to its homologue (active X). This study characterizes the yield of sister chromatid exchange in lymphocytes exposed to a given amount of 5-bromodeoxyuridine in a population of normal individuals so that it may be used as a standard for 1) a diagnostic tool in pathological conditions and 2) as an assay of chromosome stability in relation to environmental hazards.", "contents": "Sister chromatid exchange in chromosomes of cattle (Bos taurus). Lymhocytes from clinically healthy Holstein animals (8 males and 23 females) were cultured in media containing 5-bromodeoxyuridine (10 microgram/ml) for two cycles of deoxyribonucleic acid replication (48 h). The exchange of sister chromatids per cell varied from 1 to 16 with a mean of 5.4 and a standard deviation of 2.1 in 603 differentially stained metaphase chromosome spreads. The major fraction of exchanges in the X chromosome were located in the region of the subcentromeric G negative bands q1 and q2. When the cells were pulse labeled with tritium labeled thymidine (1 muCi/ml) for the last 6 h of the cell cycle, the rate of exchange was higher in the late replicating X chromosome (facultative heterochromatin) in comparison to its homologue (active X). This study characterizes the yield of sister chromatid exchange in lymphocytes exposed to a given amount of 5-bromodeoxyuridine in a population of normal individuals so that it may be used as a standard for 1) a diagnostic tool in pathological conditions and 2) as an assay of chromosome stability in relation to environmental hazards.", "PMID": 457988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13045", "title": "Milk fat as related to vitamin B12 status.", "content": "Two experiments examined whether vitamin B12 status of liver affects milk fat percentage or yield. In Experiment 1 B12 concentration in liver, measured at approximately 8 and 15 wk postpartum in 35 cows, was not correlated significantly with milk fat percentage or yield. In Experiment 2 twenty-two cows were fed a ratio similar to one used to depress milk fat percentage. The B12 status of 12 of these cows was enhanced by intramuscular injection of vitamin B12 while the other 10 served as controls. During wk 2 to 8 of lactation, milk fat percentages were almost identical for the two groups. A difference in milk fat yield in favor of the B12-treated group resulted from a difference in milk yield. The data do not support a recent hypothesis of the metabolic cause of milk fat depression.", "contents": "Milk fat as related to vitamin B12 status. Two experiments examined whether vitamin B12 status of liver affects milk fat percentage or yield. In Experiment 1 B12 concentration in liver, measured at approximately 8 and 15 wk postpartum in 35 cows, was not correlated significantly with milk fat percentage or yield. In Experiment 2 twenty-two cows were fed a ratio similar to one used to depress milk fat percentage. The B12 status of 12 of these cows was enhanced by intramuscular injection of vitamin B12 while the other 10 served as controls. During wk 2 to 8 of lactation, milk fat percentages were almost identical for the two groups. A difference in milk fat yield in favor of the B12-treated group resulted from a difference in milk yield. The data do not support a recent hypothesis of the metabolic cause of milk fat depression.", "PMID": 457990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13046", "title": "Vitamin B12 binding proteins in bovine serum.", "content": "Examination of bovine serum by the diethylaminoethyl cellulose small column method revealed three proteins binding vitamin B12. The elution pattern suggested that they are similar to the three transcobalamins recognized in human serum. Distribution of unbound binding capacity among serum binders was assessed in serum from normal, ketotic, and B12- and Factor B-supplemented cows in early lactation. No major differences were observed among groups; however, cow serum displayed a pattern different from human serum. Mean total binding capacity of bovine serum for B12 as well as mean unbound binding capacity were lower than the corresponding means for human serum.", "contents": "Vitamin B12 binding proteins in bovine serum. Examination of bovine serum by the diethylaminoethyl cellulose small column method revealed three proteins binding vitamin B12. The elution pattern suggested that they are similar to the three transcobalamins recognized in human serum. Distribution of unbound binding capacity among serum binders was assessed in serum from normal, ketotic, and B12- and Factor B-supplemented cows in early lactation. No major differences were observed among groups; however, cow serum displayed a pattern different from human serum. Mean total binding capacity of bovine serum for B12 as well as mean unbound binding capacity were lower than the corresponding means for human serum.", "PMID": 457991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13047", "title": "Mammary gland development of dairy heifers during their first gestation.", "content": "Mammary gland development was determined by analysis of udders at thirteen stages of the first gestation of nine pairs of identical twin dairy heifers. Stained sagittal sections of udders showed that gland parenchyma spread into and displaced adipose tissue so that total udder weight does not reveal extent of gland development. Changes in composition of mammary gland during gestation reflected gross and histological changes. Percentages of fat and deoxyribonucleic acid decreased while percentages of nitrogen, water, dry fat-free tissue, and ribonucleic acid increased. Development of the portion of the udder which was mammary gland appeared to be a continuous exponential process through gestation, and increases in quantitative development followed the general formula for organ growth, Y = Aekt (In Y = In A + kt), in which k is the rate constant for growth by months (t). Analysis of variance showed in addition to stage of gestation that body weight and pairs, but not age, affected the regression. Adjusting for body weight only produced rate constants for growth similar to those from adjusting for pairs and weight. Rates of development were approximately 33% per month for nitrogen, dry fat-free tissue, and internal surface area of mammary glands, and approximately 25% for parenchyma weight and deoxyribonucleic acid. Average rate of increase in total udder weight was only about .5 that for mammary glands only.", "contents": "Mammary gland development of dairy heifers during their first gestation. Mammary gland development was determined by analysis of udders at thirteen stages of the first gestation of nine pairs of identical twin dairy heifers. Stained sagittal sections of udders showed that gland parenchyma spread into and displaced adipose tissue so that total udder weight does not reveal extent of gland development. Changes in composition of mammary gland during gestation reflected gross and histological changes. Percentages of fat and deoxyribonucleic acid decreased while percentages of nitrogen, water, dry fat-free tissue, and ribonucleic acid increased. Development of the portion of the udder which was mammary gland appeared to be a continuous exponential process through gestation, and increases in quantitative development followed the general formula for organ growth, Y = Aekt (In Y = In A + kt), in which k is the rate constant for growth by months (t). Analysis of variance showed in addition to stage of gestation that body weight and pairs, but not age, affected the regression. Adjusting for body weight only produced rate constants for growth similar to those from adjusting for pairs and weight. Rates of development were approximately 33% per month for nitrogen, dry fat-free tissue, and internal surface area of mammary glands, and approximately 25% for parenchyma weight and deoxyribonucleic acid. Average rate of increase in total udder weight was only about .5 that for mammary glands only.", "PMID": 457992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13048", "title": "Calcium-containing crystals in alfalfa: their fate in cattle.", "content": "The fate of crystals in the parenchymatous sheaths around vascular bundles in alfalfa leaves was followed through the bovine digestive tract by scanning electron microscopy. The bundle and sheath pass from the rumen largely intact. Most crystals are released from the bundle sheath postruminally. In feces, some crystals appear partially eroded and others are intact. By energy-dispersive x-ray analysis calcium is the primary crystal cation. Intact cyrstals isolated from alfalfa leaves by low-temperature ashing and from bovine feces by washing and differential specific gravity were subjected to Raman microprobe analysis. Most crystals were calcium oxalate, a few were potassium oxalate, and some contained both compounds. From 20 to 33% of calcium in alfalfa is in the form of oxalate and apparently unavailable to ruminants. Carbonate is probably in partially eroded crystals from feces. Data presented account for the poorer utilization by cattle of calcium from alfalfa than that from inorganic sources.", "contents": "Calcium-containing crystals in alfalfa: their fate in cattle. The fate of crystals in the parenchymatous sheaths around vascular bundles in alfalfa leaves was followed through the bovine digestive tract by scanning electron microscopy. The bundle and sheath pass from the rumen largely intact. Most crystals are released from the bundle sheath postruminally. In feces, some crystals appear partially eroded and others are intact. By energy-dispersive x-ray analysis calcium is the primary crystal cation. Intact cyrstals isolated from alfalfa leaves by low-temperature ashing and from bovine feces by washing and differential specific gravity were subjected to Raman microprobe analysis. Most crystals were calcium oxalate, a few were potassium oxalate, and some contained both compounds. From 20 to 33% of calcium in alfalfa is in the form of oxalate and apparently unavailable to ruminants. Carbonate is probably in partially eroded crystals from feces. Data presented account for the poorer utilization by cattle of calcium from alfalfa than that from inorganic sources.", "PMID": 457993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13049", "title": "Effect of a low chloride diet on lactating Holstein cows.", "content": "Twenty primiparous lactating Holstein cows were fed diets supplemented with either .5% sodium chloride or .75% sodium bicarbonate. Those fed the latter diet conserved chloride by reducing the chloride concentration in urine, feces, and, to a small but nonsignificant amount, in milk. The low chloride diet did not affect consumption of feed dry matter and water or milk production and composition. There was no indication of pica or other aberrant taste behavior. One half of the cows in each diet group was given free choice salt block of trace elements. Those fed the low chloride diet consumed more salt (337 versus 149 g/cow per wk). When chloride requirements have been established and data on chloride composition become more widely available, it will be possible to include both sodium and chloride in diet formulations and omit salt. This will reduce the amount of salt needed as either a sodium or chloride supplement.", "contents": "Effect of a low chloride diet on lactating Holstein cows. Twenty primiparous lactating Holstein cows were fed diets supplemented with either .5% sodium chloride or .75% sodium bicarbonate. Those fed the latter diet conserved chloride by reducing the chloride concentration in urine, feces, and, to a small but nonsignificant amount, in milk. The low chloride diet did not affect consumption of feed dry matter and water or milk production and composition. There was no indication of pica or other aberrant taste behavior. One half of the cows in each diet group was given free choice salt block of trace elements. Those fed the low chloride diet consumed more salt (337 versus 149 g/cow per wk). When chloride requirements have been established and data on chloride composition become more widely available, it will be possible to include both sodium and chloride in diet formulations and omit salt. This will reduce the amount of salt needed as either a sodium or chloride supplement.", "PMID": 457994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13050", "title": "Feeding cholesterol and tallow to young calves.", "content": "Four groups of eight 4 wk-old Holstein bull calves were fed calf starter diets containing either no additive (control) or added ingredients: 1% cholesterol, 5% tallow, or 1% cholesterol plus 5% tallow. Body weight and size were reduced, and average daily gain was lowered by added 5% tallow. The added dietary tallow and cholesterol increased lipids and cholesterol of plasma by 35 to 40%. The increased intake of fat due to feeding tallow caused both increased fat metabolism and fat excretion as based on chromic oxide estimates of digestibility. Fat digestibility was lowest in animals receiving cholesterol with no added tallow. Organ weights and composition of meat at slaughter at 21 wk of age were not different.", "contents": "Feeding cholesterol and tallow to young calves. Four groups of eight 4 wk-old Holstein bull calves were fed calf starter diets containing either no additive (control) or added ingredients: 1% cholesterol, 5% tallow, or 1% cholesterol plus 5% tallow. Body weight and size were reduced, and average daily gain was lowered by added 5% tallow. The added dietary tallow and cholesterol increased lipids and cholesterol of plasma by 35 to 40%. The increased intake of fat due to feeding tallow caused both increased fat metabolism and fat excretion as based on chromic oxide estimates of digestibility. Fat digestibility was lowest in animals receiving cholesterol with no added tallow. Organ weights and composition of meat at slaughter at 21 wk of age were not different.", "PMID": 457995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13051", "title": "Squamous-cell carcinoma arising in a basal-cell epithelioma treated with 5-fluorouracil.", "content": "Intralesional injection of 5-fluorouracil has recently been reported as a possible method of treatment for an assortment of benign and malignant cutaneous neoplasms. We report the development of squamous-cell carcinoma within a basal-cell epithelioma that was treated with intralesional injections of 5-FU.", "contents": "Squamous-cell carcinoma arising in a basal-cell epithelioma treated with 5-fluorouracil. Intralesional injection of 5-fluorouracil has recently been reported as a possible method of treatment for an assortment of benign and malignant cutaneous neoplasms. We report the development of squamous-cell carcinoma within a basal-cell epithelioma that was treated with intralesional injections of 5-FU.", "PMID": 458006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13052", "title": "An \"ultimate solution\" for a painful toe.", "content": "A patient insisted upon amputation of a painfully disabling toe. For good reasons, his insistence was satisfied.", "contents": "An \"ultimate solution\" for a painful toe. A patient insisted upon amputation of a painfully disabling toe. For good reasons, his insistence was satisfied.", "PMID": 458008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13053", "title": "Epilation by electrocoagulation: factors that result in regrowth of hair.", "content": "From our experience, the most important requirement for permanent epilation by electrocoagulation is not only to destroy hair bulbs, but also to destroy the isthmal regions of hair follicles and the sebaceous glands.", "contents": "Epilation by electrocoagulation: factors that result in regrowth of hair. From our experience, the most important requirement for permanent epilation by electrocoagulation is not only to destroy hair bulbs, but also to destroy the isthmal regions of hair follicles and the sebaceous glands.", "PMID": 458009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13054", "title": "An improved method of closure of donor sites in hair transplantation.", "content": "A modification of a method previously reported is herein described as particularly good for closure of donor sites in hair transplantation. When properly performed it defies detection even by the most observant of barbers.", "contents": "An improved method of closure of donor sites in hair transplantation. A modification of a method previously reported is herein described as particularly good for closure of donor sites in hair transplantation. When properly performed it defies detection even by the most observant of barbers.", "PMID": 458015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13055", "title": "Fibrous hamartoma of infancy.", "content": "Fibrous hamartoma of infancy is a type of juvenile fibromatosis which is either present at birth or develops before two years of age. If one is not familiar with this histological pattern, it could be mistaken for a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm. We describe the characteristic clinical and microscopic features.", "contents": "Fibrous hamartoma of infancy. Fibrous hamartoma of infancy is a type of juvenile fibromatosis which is either present at birth or develops before two years of age. If one is not familiar with this histological pattern, it could be mistaken for a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm. We describe the characteristic clinical and microscopic features.", "PMID": 458016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13056", "title": "Reconstruction of a sideburn by a rotated flap.", "content": "A method for reconstruction of a sideburn is described in detail. Rotated flaps provide coverage with hair at once in a single surgical procedure.", "contents": "Reconstruction of a sideburn by a rotated flap. A method for reconstruction of a sideburn is described in detail. Rotated flaps provide coverage with hair at once in a single surgical procedure.", "PMID": 458017} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13057", "title": "Planning in hair transplantation.", "content": "The size of an area to receive hair transplants can be minimized by designing a conservative hairline and by surgical reduction of the area of alopecia. A pattern of dispersion of grafts for optimal aesthetic effect is presented together will suggestions about frequency of sessions and amount of transplantation done each time. Hair transplanting begun prior to complete alopecia has advantages that are explained.", "contents": "Planning in hair transplantation. The size of an area to receive hair transplants can be minimized by designing a conservative hairline and by surgical reduction of the area of alopecia. A pattern of dispersion of grafts for optimal aesthetic effect is presented together will suggestions about frequency of sessions and amount of transplantation done each time. Hair transplanting begun prior to complete alopecia has advantages that are explained.", "PMID": 458020} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13058", "title": "Etidocaine, a new local anesthetic.", "content": "Different local anesthetics have different physicochemical properties that result in different biological effects. Etidocaine (Duranest) is said to be a long-acting anesthetic with a rapid onset of action, properties that are particularly useful in busy office practices in which lengthy operative procedures are performed. Clinical testing confirmed that this anesthetic does, indeed, work in this manner, which makes it a good addition to the varieties of local anesthetics available.", "contents": "Etidocaine, a new local anesthetic. Different local anesthetics have different physicochemical properties that result in different biological effects. Etidocaine (Duranest) is said to be a long-acting anesthetic with a rapid onset of action, properties that are particularly useful in busy office practices in which lengthy operative procedures are performed. Clinical testing confirmed that this anesthetic does, indeed, work in this manner, which makes it a good addition to the varieties of local anesthetics available.", "PMID": 458021} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13059", "title": "Unexpected giant \"V\" waves during pulmonary artery catheterization.", "content": "Two cases of catheterization of the pulmonary artery, in which the hemodynamic findings were very different from the initial clinical diagnosis, are presented. The importance of verifying the adequate position and motion of the pulomonary artery catheters with two consecutive chest x-rays is discussed. In particular, attention is brought to the possible misinterpretation that occurs in patients with very elevated pulmonary artery mean pressure.", "contents": "Unexpected giant \"V\" waves during pulmonary artery catheterization. Two cases of catheterization of the pulmonary artery, in which the hemodynamic findings were very different from the initial clinical diagnosis, are presented. The importance of verifying the adequate position and motion of the pulomonary artery catheters with two consecutive chest x-rays is discussed. In particular, attention is brought to the possible misinterpretation that occurs in patients with very elevated pulmonary artery mean pressure.", "PMID": 458034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13060", "title": "Hyperkinetic shock in viral and pneumococcal pneumonias.", "content": "Ten patients, suffering from severe viral or bacterial pneumonia had circulatory shock, characterised haemodynamically by normal or high cardiac output (CI = 4.1 +/- 1.2 1/min/m2) and low systemic resistance (SVR = 14 +/- 3.7 mm Hg/1/min/m2). Existence of such a hyperkinetic state greatly complicates the management of patients. Plasma volume expansion, performed in five cases of initial hypovolaemia, and Dopamine infusion (five patients) increased markedly the intra-pulmonary shunting. High level PEEP ventilation was not tolerated, despite the improvement of blood gases it produced. Extra-corporeal membrane lung oxygenation (three cases), whilst giving an initial decrease of shunting and restoring SVR, produced no long term surviors. All ten patients died from intractable shock and severe hypoxaemia. Spontaneous ventilation with positive expiratory pressure (CPAP) is believed to be an attractive alternative, due to its absence of deleterious haemodynamic effects.", "contents": "Hyperkinetic shock in viral and pneumococcal pneumonias. Ten patients, suffering from severe viral or bacterial pneumonia had circulatory shock, characterised haemodynamically by normal or high cardiac output (CI = 4.1 +/- 1.2 1/min/m2) and low systemic resistance (SVR = 14 +/- 3.7 mm Hg/1/min/m2). Existence of such a hyperkinetic state greatly complicates the management of patients. Plasma volume expansion, performed in five cases of initial hypovolaemia, and Dopamine infusion (five patients) increased markedly the intra-pulmonary shunting. High level PEEP ventilation was not tolerated, despite the improvement of blood gases it produced. Extra-corporeal membrane lung oxygenation (three cases), whilst giving an initial decrease of shunting and restoring SVR, produced no long term surviors. All ten patients died from intractable shock and severe hypoxaemia. Spontaneous ventilation with positive expiratory pressure (CPAP) is believed to be an attractive alternative, due to its absence of deleterious haemodynamic effects.", "PMID": 458035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13061", "title": "Antipyrine elimination in critically ill patients.", "content": "Antipyrine kinetics were studied in 12 critically ill patients. Antipyrine half life was found to be short (6.5 +/- 3.4 h), this did not alter over 4 days of acute illness, although there was a tendency for antipyrine clearance to decrease over that time period. The need for further pharmacological studies in critically ill patients is stressed.", "contents": "Antipyrine elimination in critically ill patients. Antipyrine kinetics were studied in 12 critically ill patients. Antipyrine half life was found to be short (6.5 +/- 3.4 h), this did not alter over 4 days of acute illness, although there was a tendency for antipyrine clearance to decrease over that time period. The need for further pharmacological studies in critically ill patients is stressed.", "PMID": 458036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13062", "title": "Experimental infusion thrombophlebitis. A comparison between glucose and frutcose and 5% and 10% glucose solution.", "content": "On the basis of clinical experience it has been claimed that glucose results in a higher incidence of infusion thrombophlebitis than fructose, and that glucose solutions in concentrations higher than 5% are extremely irritant to the venous endothelium. The validity of these two assertions has been investigated by an experimental method based on a quantitative histological study of rabbit-ear veins into which infusions were given under standardized conditions. In two series of experiments, it was shown (1) that fructose solutions caused significantly more inflammatory changes in the veins than did glucose solutions, and (2) that glucose in 10% solutions caused significantly more injury to the veins than 5% solutions, although the difference in the average inflammatory changes was only slight.", "contents": "Experimental infusion thrombophlebitis. A comparison between glucose and frutcose and 5% and 10% glucose solution. On the basis of clinical experience it has been claimed that glucose results in a higher incidence of infusion thrombophlebitis than fructose, and that glucose solutions in concentrations higher than 5% are extremely irritant to the venous endothelium. The validity of these two assertions has been investigated by an experimental method based on a quantitative histological study of rabbit-ear veins into which infusions were given under standardized conditions. In two series of experiments, it was shown (1) that fructose solutions caused significantly more inflammatory changes in the veins than did glucose solutions, and (2) that glucose in 10% solutions caused significantly more injury to the veins than 5% solutions, although the difference in the average inflammatory changes was only slight.", "PMID": 458037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13063", "title": "Tracheostomy and indwelling central venous line: a hazaradous combination?", "content": "A prospective study of 390 indwelling central venous catheters placed via the subclavian route defined bacteremia and tracheostomy as the only significant variables associated with the colonization of the catheters by pathogenic microorganisms. Catheter related sepsis was likely in only 3 of 33 episodes of proven bacteremia. Detailed statistical analyses of other potential contaminating factors revealed no significance. Specific concern must be assigned to placement of central venous catheters by the subclavian approach, when a tracheostomy is already present,", "contents": "Tracheostomy and indwelling central venous line: a hazaradous combination? A prospective study of 390 indwelling central venous catheters placed via the subclavian route defined bacteremia and tracheostomy as the only significant variables associated with the colonization of the catheters by pathogenic microorganisms. Catheter related sepsis was likely in only 3 of 33 episodes of proven bacteremia. Detailed statistical analyses of other potential contaminating factors revealed no significance. Specific concern must be assigned to placement of central venous catheters by the subclavian approach, when a tracheostomy is already present,", "PMID": 458038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13064", "title": "What the patients say: A study of reactions to an intensive care unit.", "content": "One hundred consecutive patients were interviewed between the 3rd and 7th days, inclusive, of their discharge from an intensive care unit to a general ward. The patients' recall of events related to their admission to the ICU was generally poor, and 41% of them felt that they had been confused at some time during their stay though much of this seems to have passed unnoticed by the nursing staff. Lack of sleep was a problem to about a quarter of the patients and 75% of these thought that the inability to lie comfortably was a factor preventing sleep. Other factors included pain, anxiety and noise. The patients seemed satisfied whilst in the ICU, and less than half said they were pleased to return to a general ward.", "contents": "What the patients say: A study of reactions to an intensive care unit. One hundred consecutive patients were interviewed between the 3rd and 7th days, inclusive, of their discharge from an intensive care unit to a general ward. The patients' recall of events related to their admission to the ICU was generally poor, and 41% of them felt that they had been confused at some time during their stay though much of this seems to have passed unnoticed by the nursing staff. Lack of sleep was a problem to about a quarter of the patients and 75% of these thought that the inability to lie comfortably was a factor preventing sleep. Other factors included pain, anxiety and noise. The patients seemed satisfied whilst in the ICU, and less than half said they were pleased to return to a general ward.", "PMID": 458040} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13065", "title": "Tension pneumoperitoneum complicating cardiac resuscitation.", "content": "A case of gastric rupture and tension pneumonperitoneum following cardiac resuscitation is presented. Respiratory embarrassment necessitated emergency decompression by needle puncture of the peritoneal cavity, followed by laparotomy and repair of the gastric tear. The post-operative course has been satisfactory. The aetiology of the gastric rupture is discussed and recommendations are made for the prevention and treatment of this unusual complication of combined mouth to mouth respiration and external cardiac massage.", "contents": "Tension pneumoperitoneum complicating cardiac resuscitation. A case of gastric rupture and tension pneumonperitoneum following cardiac resuscitation is presented. Respiratory embarrassment necessitated emergency decompression by needle puncture of the peritoneal cavity, followed by laparotomy and repair of the gastric tear. The post-operative course has been satisfactory. The aetiology of the gastric rupture is discussed and recommendations are made for the prevention and treatment of this unusual complication of combined mouth to mouth respiration and external cardiac massage.", "PMID": 458041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13066", "title": "Subjective loudness of simulated quarry blast waves, with implications for the transition from impulsive to continuous sound.", "content": "The tradeoff between amplitude and duration for equal loudness was explored for idealized quarry blast waves. An extended low-frequency response loudspeaker-driven simulation booth was employed with computer-generated imput test signals. In place of actual irregular blast waves, the simulated signatures were composed of sequences of identical shock-decay impulses of 25 ms duration and 0.2 ms rise time. Sequences of 1--16 impulses yielded overall durations of 25--400 ms. At the short durations the loudness was found to increase 2 dB for each doubling of duration; above 100 ms the increase was progressively lower, approaching as an asymptote the level for continuous sound. The results were compared with theoretical predictions: for this purpose the spectral method of Johnson and Robinson, well varified in our earlier studies of sonic boom impulses, was used. The shorter quarry blast judgments (T less than or equal to 100 ms) were found to be in very good agreement in terms of relative loudness levels. With an ad hoc--but physically plausible--modification (including adjustment of the critical integration time of the ear) the predictive method was extended to encompass the long duration signals as well. Thus the applicability of the method has been demonstrated for other types of transient sounds than the N wave; and the extension of the method tentatively appears to bridge the range between impulsive and continuous sounds of similar spectral content.", "contents": "Subjective loudness of simulated quarry blast waves, with implications for the transition from impulsive to continuous sound. The tradeoff between amplitude and duration for equal loudness was explored for idealized quarry blast waves. An extended low-frequency response loudspeaker-driven simulation booth was employed with computer-generated imput test signals. In place of actual irregular blast waves, the simulated signatures were composed of sequences of identical shock-decay impulses of 25 ms duration and 0.2 ms rise time. Sequences of 1--16 impulses yielded overall durations of 25--400 ms. At the short durations the loudness was found to increase 2 dB for each doubling of duration; above 100 ms the increase was progressively lower, approaching as an asymptote the level for continuous sound. The results were compared with theoretical predictions: for this purpose the spectral method of Johnson and Robinson, well varified in our earlier studies of sonic boom impulses, was used. The shorter quarry blast judgments (T less than or equal to 100 ms) were found to be in very good agreement in terms of relative loudness levels. With an ad hoc--but physically plausible--modification (including adjustment of the critical integration time of the ear) the predictive method was extended to encompass the long duration signals as well. Thus the applicability of the method has been demonstrated for other types of transient sounds than the N wave; and the extension of the method tentatively appears to bridge the range between impulsive and continuous sounds of similar spectral content.", "PMID": 458043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13067", "title": "Hearing loss from simulated work-week exposure to impulse noise.", "content": "Six monaural chinchillas were exposed to a repetitive, reverberant, impulse noise for a total of five days, 8 h per day. The average peak overpressure within the holding cage was 113 dB. The reverberation time (pressure fluctuation envelope within 20 dB of peak) was 160 ms. Auditory thresholds were measured at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kHz before and after each day's exposure using either the average-evoked response technique or shock avoidance conditioning. After the last exposure, recovery was monitored for five successive days. Final thresholds were obtained starting at 30 days postexposure after which the animals were sacrificed for cochlear histology. The high frequencies (4, 8 kHz) showed a daily median shift of 40 dB and a 27 dB recovery before the following day's exposure. The low frequencies (0.25, 0.5 kHz) were shifted 35 dB after each day's exposure with a 15 dB recovery overnight. Final median audiograms showed little permanent threshold shift. The cochleagrams for two test animals were found to be normal while the remaining four displayed 10%--40% losses in hair cells at specific cochlear sites.", "contents": "Hearing loss from simulated work-week exposure to impulse noise. Six monaural chinchillas were exposed to a repetitive, reverberant, impulse noise for a total of five days, 8 h per day. The average peak overpressure within the holding cage was 113 dB. The reverberation time (pressure fluctuation envelope within 20 dB of peak) was 160 ms. Auditory thresholds were measured at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kHz before and after each day's exposure using either the average-evoked response technique or shock avoidance conditioning. After the last exposure, recovery was monitored for five successive days. Final thresholds were obtained starting at 30 days postexposure after which the animals were sacrificed for cochlear histology. The high frequencies (4, 8 kHz) showed a daily median shift of 40 dB and a 27 dB recovery before the following day's exposure. The low frequencies (0.25, 0.5 kHz) were shifted 35 dB after each day's exposure with a 15 dB recovery overnight. Final median audiograms showed little permanent threshold shift. The cochleagrams for two test animals were found to be normal while the remaining four displayed 10%--40% losses in hair cells at specific cochlear sites.", "PMID": 458044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13068", "title": "Temporary threshold shifts in humans exposed to octave bands of noise for 16 to 24 hours.", "content": "Groups of human subjects were exposed in a diffuse sound field for 16--24 h to an octave-band noise centered at 4, 2, 1, or 0.5 kHz. Sound-pressure levels were varied on different exposure occasions. At specified times during an exposure, the subject was removed from the noise, auditory sensitivity was measured, and the subject was returned to the noise. Temporary threshold shifts (TTS) increased for about 8 h and then reached a plateau or asymptote. The relation between TTS and exposure duration can be described by a simple exponential function with a time constant of 2.1 h. In the frequency region of greatest loss, threshold shifts at asymptote increased about 1.7 dB for every 1 dB increase in the level of the noise above a critical level. Critical levels were empirically estimated to be 74.0 dB SPL at 4 kHz. 78 dB at 2 kHz, and 82 dB at 1 and 0.5 kHz. Except for the noise centered at 4.0 kHz, threshold shifts were maximal about 1/2 octave above the center frequency of the noise. A smaller second maximum was observed also at 7.0 kHz for the noise centered at 2.0 kHz, at 6.0 kHz for the noise centered at 1.0 kHz, and at 5.5 kHz for the noise centered at 0.5 kHz. After termination of the exposure, recovery to within 5 dB of pre-exposure thresholds was achieved within 24 h or less. Recovery can be described by a simple exponential function with a time constant of 7.1 h. The frequency contour defined by critical levels matches almost exactly the frequency contour defined by the E-weighting network.", "contents": "Temporary threshold shifts in humans exposed to octave bands of noise for 16 to 24 hours. Groups of human subjects were exposed in a diffuse sound field for 16--24 h to an octave-band noise centered at 4, 2, 1, or 0.5 kHz. Sound-pressure levels were varied on different exposure occasions. At specified times during an exposure, the subject was removed from the noise, auditory sensitivity was measured, and the subject was returned to the noise. Temporary threshold shifts (TTS) increased for about 8 h and then reached a plateau or asymptote. The relation between TTS and exposure duration can be described by a simple exponential function with a time constant of 2.1 h. In the frequency region of greatest loss, threshold shifts at asymptote increased about 1.7 dB for every 1 dB increase in the level of the noise above a critical level. Critical levels were empirically estimated to be 74.0 dB SPL at 4 kHz. 78 dB at 2 kHz, and 82 dB at 1 and 0.5 kHz. Except for the noise centered at 4.0 kHz, threshold shifts were maximal about 1/2 octave above the center frequency of the noise. A smaller second maximum was observed also at 7.0 kHz for the noise centered at 2.0 kHz, at 6.0 kHz for the noise centered at 1.0 kHz, and at 5.5 kHz for the noise centered at 0.5 kHz. After termination of the exposure, recovery to within 5 dB of pre-exposure thresholds was achieved within 24 h or less. Recovery can be described by a simple exponential function with a time constant of 7.1 h. The frequency contour defined by critical levels matches almost exactly the frequency contour defined by the E-weighting network.", "PMID": 458045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13069", "title": "Selective adaptation to frequency-modulated tones: evidence for an information-processing channel selectively sensitive to frequency changes.", "content": "Exposure to an FM tone elevates FM threshold but not AM threshold. This holds for a wide range of frequency deviations (delta F = +/- 0.4 Hz- +/- 30 Hz at least) provided that modulation frequency is low (fm = 2 Hz), but if fm is somewhat higher (e.g., 8 Hz) the finding only holds for small frequency deviations. FM threshold can rise with time up to an adapting duration of at least 1200 s, through this buildup depends on frequency deviation. Exposure to an AM tone elevates AM threshold, but not FM threshold, over a wide range of modulation depths (at least m = 5%--50%). Quasi-FM (QFM) adapting tones resemble FM adapting tones in their effects upon FM and AM sensitivities, even though QFM and AM adapting tones have identical power spectra. Exposure to a pure tone produces no difference between FM and AM threshold elevations. These data can be explained if the human auditory pathway contains separate information-processing channels for AM and FM signals whose sensitivities do not overlap even with suprathreshold stimuli. We suppose that the FM channel (but not the AM channel) is sensitive to changing differences (or ratios) between signals from different sites along the basilar membrane.", "contents": "Selective adaptation to frequency-modulated tones: evidence for an information-processing channel selectively sensitive to frequency changes. Exposure to an FM tone elevates FM threshold but not AM threshold. This holds for a wide range of frequency deviations (delta F = +/- 0.4 Hz- +/- 30 Hz at least) provided that modulation frequency is low (fm = 2 Hz), but if fm is somewhat higher (e.g., 8 Hz) the finding only holds for small frequency deviations. FM threshold can rise with time up to an adapting duration of at least 1200 s, through this buildup depends on frequency deviation. Exposure to an AM tone elevates AM threshold, but not FM threshold, over a wide range of modulation depths (at least m = 5%--50%). Quasi-FM (QFM) adapting tones resemble FM adapting tones in their effects upon FM and AM sensitivities, even though QFM and AM adapting tones have identical power spectra. Exposure to a pure tone produces no difference between FM and AM threshold elevations. These data can be explained if the human auditory pathway contains separate information-processing channels for AM and FM signals whose sensitivities do not overlap even with suprathreshold stimuli. We suppose that the FM channel (but not the AM channel) is sensitive to changing differences (or ratios) between signals from different sites along the basilar membrane.", "PMID": 458046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13070", "title": "Suppression effects in backward and forward masking.", "content": "The differences in the suppression effect observed in forward and backward masking are consistent with an interpretation that suppression in forward masking results from a reduction of the effective level of the masker in the aditory periphery, and that the suppression in backward masking is influenced by these peripheral processes, but is dominated by additional, central processes. This conclusion is supported by experiments that show differences in the effect of ipsilateral versus contralateral presentation of the suppressor, and differences in the amount of the suppression observed as a function of the level, duration, and frequency of the suppressor.", "contents": "Suppression effects in backward and forward masking. The differences in the suppression effect observed in forward and backward masking are consistent with an interpretation that suppression in forward masking results from a reduction of the effective level of the masker in the aditory periphery, and that the suppression in backward masking is influenced by these peripheral processes, but is dominated by additional, central processes. This conclusion is supported by experiments that show differences in the effect of ipsilateral versus contralateral presentation of the suppressor, and differences in the amount of the suppression observed as a function of the level, duration, and frequency of the suppressor.", "PMID": 458047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13071", "title": "Anticipatory coarticulation: some implications from a study of lip rounding.", "content": "The anticipation of articulatory features, in particular lip rounding in anticipation of a rounded vowel, has been reported to occur as many as four segments before the segment for which the feature is specified. In the data presented here, we find that the moter commands for the rounding gesture for /u/ begin a fixed time before the onset of the vowel. This timing is unaffected by the number of consonant segments in the preceding string. Thus, the initiation of lip rounding appears to be linked to other features of the vowel articulation.", "contents": "Anticipatory coarticulation: some implications from a study of lip rounding. The anticipation of articulatory features, in particular lip rounding in anticipation of a rounded vowel, has been reported to occur as many as four segments before the segment for which the feature is specified. In the data presented here, we find that the moter commands for the rounding gesture for /u/ begin a fixed time before the onset of the vowel. This timing is unaffected by the number of consonant segments in the preceding string. Thus, the initiation of lip rounding appears to be linked to other features of the vowel articulation.", "PMID": 458048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13072", "title": "Reflex activation of laryngeal muscles by sudden induced subglottal pressure changes.", "content": "In measuring the effect of subglottal pressure changes on fundamental frequency (Fo) of phonation, the effects of changing laryngeal muscle activity must be eliminated. Several investigators have used a strategy in which pulsatile increases of subglottal pressure are induced by pushing on the chest or abdomen of a phonating subject. Fundamental frequency is then correlated with subglottal pressure changes during an interval before laryngeal response is assumed to occur. The present study was undertaken to repeat such an experiment while monitoring electromyographic (EMG) activity of some laryngeal muscles, to discover empirically the latency of the laryngeal response. The results showed a consistent response to each push, with a latency of about 30 ms. Despite this response, analyses of fundamental frequency versus subglottal pressure changes during the interval of constant EMG activity were in general agreement with previously published values. With respect to the nature of the electromyographic response itself, its timing was found to be within the range of latencies appropriate for peripheral feedback, and was also similar to that for an acoustically--or tactually--elicited startle reflex.", "contents": "Reflex activation of laryngeal muscles by sudden induced subglottal pressure changes. In measuring the effect of subglottal pressure changes on fundamental frequency (Fo) of phonation, the effects of changing laryngeal muscle activity must be eliminated. Several investigators have used a strategy in which pulsatile increases of subglottal pressure are induced by pushing on the chest or abdomen of a phonating subject. Fundamental frequency is then correlated with subglottal pressure changes during an interval before laryngeal response is assumed to occur. The present study was undertaken to repeat such an experiment while monitoring electromyographic (EMG) activity of some laryngeal muscles, to discover empirically the latency of the laryngeal response. The results showed a consistent response to each push, with a latency of about 30 ms. Despite this response, analyses of fundamental frequency versus subglottal pressure changes during the interval of constant EMG activity were in general agreement with previously published values. With respect to the nature of the electromyographic response itself, its timing was found to be within the range of latencies appropriate for peripheral feedback, and was also similar to that for an acoustically--or tactually--elicited startle reflex.", "PMID": 458049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13073", "title": "Rhythmic and segmental perception are not independent.", "content": "The 36 basic \"sentences\" in the experiment were six-syllable nonsense sequences of the form DAS a LAS a GAS a or a DAS a BAS a LAS. Either (a) one vowel in the sentence was lengthened or shortened by about 50, 90, or 130 ms by computer-editing routines, or (b) the sentence was left intact (as spoken). The resulting perceptual impression after the vowel change was a change of tempo within the sentence. Vowel changes occurred systematically throughout the sentences, in one of syllables one through five. Reaction time (RT) was recorded to assigned target segments /b, d, or g/ in one of syllables one through six, and RT was compared to targets in tempo-changed versus intact sentences (these were acoustically identical except for the distorted vowel). The listeners responded to over 2000 versions of the sentences. The results were: (a) Tempo changes generally increased segment target RT. (b) Tempo-change effects were ubiquitous; for instance, vowel changes in the first syllable increased RT to targets in later syllables, and the reach of effects spanned four syllables. Both vowel shortening and lengthening increased target RT. (c) Effects attributed to precessing time decreased, whereas effects attributed to stimulus expectancy increased, with time into the sentence. (d) Tempo-change effects persisted throughout the experiment despite practice and familiarity with stimuli. The conclusions were: (a) The effects of time distortion of the stimulus on target RT were produced mainly by changes in stimulus-induced expectancy, not changes in processing time. (b) The expected input to perception is the acoustically intact utterance in both its rhythmic and segmental aspects; these aspects are not perceived independently.", "contents": "Rhythmic and segmental perception are not independent. The 36 basic \"sentences\" in the experiment were six-syllable nonsense sequences of the form DAS a LAS a GAS a or a DAS a BAS a LAS. Either (a) one vowel in the sentence was lengthened or shortened by about 50, 90, or 130 ms by computer-editing routines, or (b) the sentence was left intact (as spoken). The resulting perceptual impression after the vowel change was a change of tempo within the sentence. Vowel changes occurred systematically throughout the sentences, in one of syllables one through five. Reaction time (RT) was recorded to assigned target segments /b, d, or g/ in one of syllables one through six, and RT was compared to targets in tempo-changed versus intact sentences (these were acoustically identical except for the distorted vowel). The listeners responded to over 2000 versions of the sentences. The results were: (a) Tempo changes generally increased segment target RT. (b) Tempo-change effects were ubiquitous; for instance, vowel changes in the first syllable increased RT to targets in later syllables, and the reach of effects spanned four syllables. Both vowel shortening and lengthening increased target RT. (c) Effects attributed to precessing time decreased, whereas effects attributed to stimulus expectancy increased, with time into the sentence. (d) Tempo-change effects persisted throughout the experiment despite practice and familiarity with stimuli. The conclusions were: (a) The effects of time distortion of the stimulus on target RT were produced mainly by changes in stimulus-induced expectancy, not changes in processing time. (b) The expected input to perception is the acoustically intact utterance in both its rhythmic and segmental aspects; these aspects are not perceived independently.", "PMID": 458050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13074", "title": "Acoustical and perceptual characteristics of speech produced with an electronic artificial larynx.", "content": "Five normal-speaking adult males were taught to produce speech using an electrolarynx. Speech phoneme intelligibility was measured in a closed-set word discrimination test and through phonetic transcriptions of the spoken materials. Mean percentages of correct identification for the five talkers were 90% and 57% for the word-identification test and phonetic transcription, respectively. An analysis of perceptual confusions revealed that errors were most frequently associated with the voicing feature and that few manner or place of articulation errors occurred. Over the range of variables observed, the intensity of both the speech and the noise radiating directly from the electrolarynx, the spectrum of the radiated noise and speaking rate were not found to be determinants of intelligibility.", "contents": "Acoustical and perceptual characteristics of speech produced with an electronic artificial larynx. Five normal-speaking adult males were taught to produce speech using an electrolarynx. Speech phoneme intelligibility was measured in a closed-set word discrimination test and through phonetic transcriptions of the spoken materials. Mean percentages of correct identification for the five talkers were 90% and 57% for the word-identification test and phonetic transcription, respectively. An analysis of perceptual confusions revealed that errors were most frequently associated with the voicing feature and that few manner or place of articulation errors occurred. Over the range of variables observed, the intensity of both the speech and the noise radiating directly from the electrolarynx, the spectrum of the radiated noise and speaking rate were not found to be determinants of intelligibility.", "PMID": 458051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13075", "title": "Ultrasonic absorption in liver tissue.", "content": "Ultrasonic attenuation coefficients were measured in mammalian liver for frequencies ranging from 0.5 to 10 MHz and for a range of sample preparations. Certain preparative procedures were found to greatly increase the low-frequency attenuation coefficient due to the introduction of bubbles into the sample. The low-frequency attenuation was reduced by storage at low temperatures or by pressurization, each caused the bubbles to go into solution, resulting in an attenuation coefficient that was a simple power function of frequency. Absorption coefficients of in vitro and in vivo samples were found to be similar and to show much less dependence on sample preparation than the attenuation measurements. These studies suggest that properties of carefully prepared in vitro samples are indicative of the in vivo properties.", "contents": "Ultrasonic absorption in liver tissue. Ultrasonic attenuation coefficients were measured in mammalian liver for frequencies ranging from 0.5 to 10 MHz and for a range of sample preparations. Certain preparative procedures were found to greatly increase the low-frequency attenuation coefficient due to the introduction of bubbles into the sample. The low-frequency attenuation was reduced by storage at low temperatures or by pressurization, each caused the bubbles to go into solution, resulting in an attenuation coefficient that was a simple power function of frequency. Absorption coefficients of in vitro and in vivo samples were found to be similar and to show much less dependence on sample preparation than the attenuation measurements. These studies suggest that properties of carefully prepared in vitro samples are indicative of the in vivo properties.", "PMID": 458052} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13076", "title": "Complement and contrast material reactors.", "content": "Patients showing systemic reactions to intravascular contrast media and patients receiving contrast media without reaction have significantly different mean values (p is less than 0.05) for functionally determined serum C1-esterase inhibitor (C1 INH) and total hemolytic complement (CH50). The lower concentration of these components in reactors appears in baseline serum samples (as well as after injection), and suggests that many anaphylactoid reactions to contrast media are conditioned by earlier complement consumption, and result directly from contrast-induced activation of complement, and other activation system components in the presence of inhibitor depression.", "contents": "Complement and contrast material reactors. Patients showing systemic reactions to intravascular contrast media and patients receiving contrast media without reaction have significantly different mean values (p is less than 0.05) for functionally determined serum C1-esterase inhibitor (C1 INH) and total hemolytic complement (CH50). The lower concentration of these components in reactors appears in baseline serum samples (as well as after injection), and suggests that many anaphylactoid reactions to contrast media are conditioned by earlier complement consumption, and result directly from contrast-induced activation of complement, and other activation system components in the presence of inhibitor depression.", "PMID": 458054} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13077", "title": "Immunoglobulin E to cow's-milk protein in breast-fed atopic children.", "content": "Over a 3-yr period, 18 children , ages 10 mo to 5 yr, were discovered to have IgE to cow's-milk protein (CMP). They were compared with 18 age-matched patients for having been primarily breast fed during the first 6 mo of life. All were new allergy clinic asthmatic patients with a strong family history of atopy and evidence of IgE to multiple allergens. Analysis of the data on this allergic population revealed that both a history of breast feeding and of milk-induced immediate reaction in patients with CMP-specific IgE was significantly higher (p is less than 0.03) than in those patients without IgE to CMP. Inadvertent sensitization to food antigens can occur in some atopic breast-fed infants.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin E to cow's-milk protein in breast-fed atopic children. Over a 3-yr period, 18 children , ages 10 mo to 5 yr, were discovered to have IgE to cow's-milk protein (CMP). They were compared with 18 age-matched patients for having been primarily breast fed during the first 6 mo of life. All were new allergy clinic asthmatic patients with a strong family history of atopy and evidence of IgE to multiple allergens. Analysis of the data on this allergic population revealed that both a history of breast feeding and of milk-induced immediate reaction in patients with CMP-specific IgE was significantly higher (p is less than 0.03) than in those patients without IgE to CMP. Inadvertent sensitization to food antigens can occur in some atopic breast-fed infants.", "PMID": 458055} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13078", "title": "Immunoglobulin E response during viral infections.", "content": "One hundred and three patients (90 nonatopics and 13 atopics) with respiratory infections to various viral agents were studied retrospectively with respect to IgE immunoglobulin levels during acute (1 to 7 days) and convalescent (8 to 30 days) phases of infection. It was found that 59% of patients had a decrease of 20% or more in IgE level, 27% remained the same, and only 14% showed a rise 20% or more from the acute to the convalescent phases of infection. IgE levels decreased up to 3 to 4 wk after symptoms and the degree of decrease was more apparent for the nonatopics who had higher IgE levels in their acute phase of infection. Less dramatic decrease in IgE was observed for the 13 atopics studied. The changes in IgE levels during the viral infectious period are discussed in terms of possible cellular mechanisms that may control IgE immunoglobulin.", "contents": "Immunoglobulin E response during viral infections. One hundred and three patients (90 nonatopics and 13 atopics) with respiratory infections to various viral agents were studied retrospectively with respect to IgE immunoglobulin levels during acute (1 to 7 days) and convalescent (8 to 30 days) phases of infection. It was found that 59% of patients had a decrease of 20% or more in IgE level, 27% remained the same, and only 14% showed a rise 20% or more from the acute to the convalescent phases of infection. IgE levels decreased up to 3 to 4 wk after symptoms and the degree of decrease was more apparent for the nonatopics who had higher IgE levels in their acute phase of infection. Less dramatic decrease in IgE was observed for the 13 atopics studied. The changes in IgE levels during the viral infectious period are discussed in terms of possible cellular mechanisms that may control IgE immunoglobulin.", "PMID": 458056} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13079", "title": "Nutrition in the Humphrey tradition.", "content": "This is only a partial overview of some of the activities within DHEW related to nutrition, with a particular focus on the Nutrition Coordinating Committee. Although the activities are already broad, they will expand as we identify additional problems and decide on appropriate solutions. Let me call on the members of The American Dietetic Association to assist us in our efforts to assign priorities to our activity. My discussion began with nutrition education, because this is a priority for both The American Dietetic Association and DHEW. We would welcome your help now and in the future as we attempt to make our programs in nutrition education and information more effective, more available, and more responsive to the needs of the American people. Nutrition in the Humphrey tradition is alive and well in DHEW.", "contents": "Nutrition in the Humphrey tradition. This is only a partial overview of some of the activities within DHEW related to nutrition, with a particular focus on the Nutrition Coordinating Committee. Although the activities are already broad, they will expand as we identify additional problems and decide on appropriate solutions. Let me call on the members of The American Dietetic Association to assist us in our efforts to assign priorities to our activity. My discussion began with nutrition education, because this is a priority for both The American Dietetic Association and DHEW. We would welcome your help now and in the future as we attempt to make our programs in nutrition education and information more effective, more available, and more responsive to the needs of the American people. Nutrition in the Humphrey tradition is alive and well in DHEW.", "PMID": 458074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13080", "title": "Infant feeding practices and obesity.", "content": "Selected assumptions regarding associations between artificial feeding and infantile obesity are examined. Although some artificial baby foods (desserts, meats, egg yolks) have considerably greater caloric density than breast milk, a large class of baby foods and most milks and formulas are comparable to breast milk in caloric density. The intake of infant foods seems to be related more to caloric density than volume. Modern day artificial feeding in developed countries tends to produce larger weight gains than breast feeding, although no good data exist to evaluate the composition of these weight gains. Many more data from well planned studies are needed to fully elucidate possible mechanisms of infantile obesity.", "contents": "Infant feeding practices and obesity. Selected assumptions regarding associations between artificial feeding and infantile obesity are examined. Although some artificial baby foods (desserts, meats, egg yolks) have considerably greater caloric density than breast milk, a large class of baby foods and most milks and formulas are comparable to breast milk in caloric density. The intake of infant foods seems to be related more to caloric density than volume. Modern day artificial feeding in developed countries tends to produce larger weight gains than breast feeding, although no good data exist to evaluate the composition of these weight gains. Many more data from well planned studies are needed to fully elucidate possible mechanisms of infantile obesity.", "PMID": 458075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13081", "title": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. I. Amount, type, and sources of dietary advice and treatment.", "content": "Interviews were conducted with ninety-two pregnant women who attended an out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital. All were between thirty-four and thirty-eight weeks pregnant when interviewed. Information was obtained on the amount, type, and sources of professional dietary advice; current dietary treatments; and the patterns and nature of the patients' contacts with dietitian. The dietitian was the major source of prenatal dietary advice. Only one-third of subjects received additional advice from other professionals, usually the nurse. Physicians were rarely identified as a source of dietary advice. Approximately one-third of subjects reported receiving dietary instructions to restrict intakes of calories and/or sodium. Physicians instituted these restrictions more frequently than did nurses. Few patients were referred to the dietitian for advice on these diets. Multivitamin and iron supplements were prescribed routinely. Three-quarters of subjects made at least one visit to the nutrition service, generally early in their prenatal care. For most subjects, this was their first experience with a dietitian. Nurses made considerably more referrals to the dietitian than did physicians. There would appear to be a need to educate other health professionals, especially physicians, on the advantages of more liberal diets and weight gain in pregnancy and on the special skills of the dietitian in promoting sound nutritional habits.", "contents": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. I. Amount, type, and sources of dietary advice and treatment. Interviews were conducted with ninety-two pregnant women who attended an out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital. All were between thirty-four and thirty-eight weeks pregnant when interviewed. Information was obtained on the amount, type, and sources of professional dietary advice; current dietary treatments; and the patterns and nature of the patients' contacts with dietitian. The dietitian was the major source of prenatal dietary advice. Only one-third of subjects received additional advice from other professionals, usually the nurse. Physicians were rarely identified as a source of dietary advice. Approximately one-third of subjects reported receiving dietary instructions to restrict intakes of calories and/or sodium. Physicians instituted these restrictions more frequently than did nurses. Few patients were referred to the dietitian for advice on these diets. Multivitamin and iron supplements were prescribed routinely. Three-quarters of subjects made at least one visit to the nutrition service, generally early in their prenatal care. For most subjects, this was their first experience with a dietitian. Nurses made considerably more referrals to the dietitian than did physicians. There would appear to be a need to educate other health professionals, especially physicians, on the advantages of more liberal diets and weight gain in pregnancy and on the special skills of the dietitian in promoting sound nutritional habits.", "PMID": 458076} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13082", "title": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. II. Perceptions, satisfaction, and response to dietary advice and treatment.", "content": "Ninety-two pregnant women attending the out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital were interviewed. Information on their perception of diet during pregnancy, response to dietary advice, and satisfaction with the type and amount of dietary information given was collected. Almost all subjects considered diet to be important during pregnancy. Prenatal dietary advice was perceived as somewhat restrictive, and for approximately a third of the subjects, compliance with dietary advice was a serious concern. Most subjects indicated making some dietary changes during pregnancy, usually as a result of the advice received. Poor compliance was reported with iron supplementation, and many of the women attributed adverse symptoms to this medication. Subjects appeared more satisfied with the amount than the type of dietary advice received, and negative or noncommittal attitudes toward nutrition services were expressed by half of the subjects. Feeling of guilt, attitudes of other professionals, and perceived difficulties of complying with dietary instructions were the major reasons given for these negative feelings. Rescheduling and better integration of nutrition services in the prenatal visit are suggested to improve patient satisfaction with dietary counseling.", "contents": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. II. Perceptions, satisfaction, and response to dietary advice and treatment. Ninety-two pregnant women attending the out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital were interviewed. Information on their perception of diet during pregnancy, response to dietary advice, and satisfaction with the type and amount of dietary information given was collected. Almost all subjects considered diet to be important during pregnancy. Prenatal dietary advice was perceived as somewhat restrictive, and for approximately a third of the subjects, compliance with dietary advice was a serious concern. Most subjects indicated making some dietary changes during pregnancy, usually as a result of the advice received. Poor compliance was reported with iron supplementation, and many of the women attributed adverse symptoms to this medication. Subjects appeared more satisfied with the amount than the type of dietary advice received, and negative or noncommittal attitudes toward nutrition services were expressed by half of the subjects. Feeling of guilt, attitudes of other professionals, and perceived difficulties of complying with dietary instructions were the major reasons given for these negative feelings. Rescheduling and better integration of nutrition services in the prenatal visit are suggested to improve patient satisfaction with dietary counseling.", "PMID": 458077} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13083", "title": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. III. Perceived need for advice and effectiveness of advice received.", "content": "Interviews were conducted with ninety-two pregnant women who attended the out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital. Information was obtained on the patients' perception of their need for dietary advice during pregnancy and selected demographic, nutritional, and medical care characteristics, as well as their response to, and satisfaction with, the dietary advice and treatment they received. The patients' perceived need for dietary advice appears to be an important factor in the apparent effectiveness of prenatal dietary counseling. Patients who expressed a need for dietary advice were more likely to consider diet important during pregnancy, to have positive feelings toward nutrition services, to have visited the dietitian, and to report making changes in their diet because of the advice received. Little association was observed between demographic and medical care characteristics of patients or more objective measures of need for dietary advice and the patients' own perception of need. It is suggested that patients whose expressed need for counseling is at variance with objective measures are a group requiring special attention.", "contents": "Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. III. Perceived need for advice and effectiveness of advice received. Interviews were conducted with ninety-two pregnant women who attended the out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital. Information was obtained on the patients' perception of their need for dietary advice during pregnancy and selected demographic, nutritional, and medical care characteristics, as well as their response to, and satisfaction with, the dietary advice and treatment they received. The patients' perceived need for dietary advice appears to be an important factor in the apparent effectiveness of prenatal dietary counseling. Patients who expressed a need for dietary advice were more likely to consider diet important during pregnancy, to have positive feelings toward nutrition services, to have visited the dietitian, and to report making changes in their diet because of the advice received. Little association was observed between demographic and medical care characteristics of patients or more objective measures of need for dietary advice and the patients' own perception of need. It is suggested that patients whose expressed need for counseling is at variance with objective measures are a group requiring special attention.", "PMID": 458078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13084", "title": "Mothers' compliance with physicians' recommendations on infant feeding.", "content": "One hundred thirty-one mothers who were patients of ten physicians were surveyed to determine their compliance with physician-recommended infant feeding practices. For a direct, self-reported measure, the rate of non-compliance was nearly 30 per cent. A second measure, a \"compliance score,\" was computed by comparing mothers' responses to specific questions about the feeding of their babies with their physcians' recommendations for normal, healthy infants. The mean noncompliance rate on this measure was 44 per cent. Differing response patterns regarding specific feeding practices were found for breast-feeding and bottle feeding mothers. To determine selected psychologic factors associated with compliance, health-related attitude and belief scales were originated and validated. Attitudes that \"nutrition is important\" and a \"concern for health\" were significantly correlated with the compliance score for breast-feeding mothers.", "contents": "Mothers' compliance with physicians' recommendations on infant feeding. One hundred thirty-one mothers who were patients of ten physicians were surveyed to determine their compliance with physician-recommended infant feeding practices. For a direct, self-reported measure, the rate of non-compliance was nearly 30 per cent. A second measure, a \"compliance score,\" was computed by comparing mothers' responses to specific questions about the feeding of their babies with their physcians' recommendations for normal, healthy infants. The mean noncompliance rate on this measure was 44 per cent. Differing response patterns regarding specific feeding practices were found for breast-feeding and bottle feeding mothers. To determine selected psychologic factors associated with compliance, health-related attitude and belief scales were originated and validated. Attitudes that \"nutrition is important\" and a \"concern for health\" were significantly correlated with the compliance score for breast-feeding mothers.", "PMID": 458079} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13085", "title": "Trace minerals in commercially prepared baby foods.", "content": "Five categories of strained baby foods were analyzed for iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese, strontium, and cadmium. Meats, egg yolk, and cerals tended to have the highest concentrations of iron, copper, and zinc. Fruits and vegetables had lower contents of these minerals. Cereals and vegetables were the best sources of magnesium and manganese. Strontium and cadmium levels were consistently low.", "contents": "Trace minerals in commercially prepared baby foods. Five categories of strained baby foods were analyzed for iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese, strontium, and cadmium. Meats, egg yolk, and cerals tended to have the highest concentrations of iron, copper, and zinc. Fruits and vegetables had lower contents of these minerals. Cereals and vegetables were the best sources of magnesium and manganese. Strontium and cadmium levels were consistently low.", "PMID": 458080} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13086", "title": "Assessment of maternal nutrition.", "content": "A booklet, \"Assessment of Maternal Nutrition,\" has been published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in cooperation with The American Dietetic Association as a useful guide for physicians, nurses, dietitians, and nutritionists. Nutritional risks during pregnancy are clearly outlined. Clinical, dietary, and biochemical factors, as well as medical, obstetric, and social factors, are delineated as components of nutritional assessment. An A.D.A. Liaison Committee had major responsibility for the development of the \"Eating Habits Questionnaire,\" a tool to screen dietary intake for major deficits and excesses, which is included in the booklet. It should be useful also as a starting point for nutrition education. Additional evaluation of the use and reliability of the screening tool is recommended.", "contents": "Assessment of maternal nutrition. A booklet, \"Assessment of Maternal Nutrition,\" has been published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in cooperation with The American Dietetic Association as a useful guide for physicians, nurses, dietitians, and nutritionists. Nutritional risks during pregnancy are clearly outlined. Clinical, dietary, and biochemical factors, as well as medical, obstetric, and social factors, are delineated as components of nutritional assessment. An A.D.A. Liaison Committee had major responsibility for the development of the \"Eating Habits Questionnaire,\" a tool to screen dietary intake for major deficits and excesses, which is included in the booklet. It should be useful also as a starting point for nutrition education. Additional evaluation of the use and reliability of the screening tool is recommended.", "PMID": 458081} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13087", "title": "A new geriatric application of electrocardiographic treadmill testing in an office setting.", "content": "An accepted method of measuring exercise tolerance was applied exclusively to geriatric practice for the purpose of exercise prescription. This stress testing was performed to minimize the risks of introducing exercise in an elderly population, and to restore or maintain elderly persons at their own optimal level of function, for life. As no geriatric testing protocol was available, two standardized protocols were chiefly used to start the trial program in March, 1978. A geriatric modification devised by the author is described. During the first month of the study, in a physician's office, ECG-monitored treadmill testing was conducted without mishap in 175 patients (age range, 60--89 years). All but 4 of the subjects (98 percent) led habitually sedentary lives, and documented coronary heart disease was present in about one-fourth of the series. The initial test data in this proposed continuing study are summarized. The methods for candidate selection, the safety precautions, and the test procedure are outlined. The distinction is made between testing by functional grades and testing to maximal levels. Information obtained from this stress test is an integral part of the individualized exercise prescription for each geriatric subject.", "contents": "A new geriatric application of electrocardiographic treadmill testing in an office setting. An accepted method of measuring exercise tolerance was applied exclusively to geriatric practice for the purpose of exercise prescription. This stress testing was performed to minimize the risks of introducing exercise in an elderly population, and to restore or maintain elderly persons at their own optimal level of function, for life. As no geriatric testing protocol was available, two standardized protocols were chiefly used to start the trial program in March, 1978. A geriatric modification devised by the author is described. During the first month of the study, in a physician's office, ECG-monitored treadmill testing was conducted without mishap in 175 patients (age range, 60--89 years). All but 4 of the subjects (98 percent) led habitually sedentary lives, and documented coronary heart disease was present in about one-fourth of the series. The initial test data in this proposed continuing study are summarized. The methods for candidate selection, the safety precautions, and the test procedure are outlined. The distinction is made between testing by functional grades and testing to maximal levels. Information obtained from this stress test is an integral part of the individualized exercise prescription for each geriatric subject.", "PMID": 458084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13088", "title": "Bacterial pneumonia in the elderly: a reappraisal of conventional therapy, with a note on cefamandole.", "content": "Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in the elderly has for years been attributed almost exclusively to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Recent technical advances have provided bacteriologic and epidemiologic data demonstrating that other pathogens are important causes of pulmonary infection in older patients. This report reviews these data and reappraises the conventional therapy of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in geriatric patients. Some properties of a new antibiotic, cefamandole nafate, are described.", "contents": "Bacterial pneumonia in the elderly: a reappraisal of conventional therapy, with a note on cefamandole. Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in the elderly has for years been attributed almost exclusively to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Recent technical advances have provided bacteriologic and epidemiologic data demonstrating that other pathogens are important causes of pulmonary infection in older patients. This report reviews these data and reappraises the conventional therapy of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in geriatric patients. Some properties of a new antibiotic, cefamandole nafate, are described.", "PMID": 458085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13089", "title": "Development and application of the extended scale for dementia.", "content": "As part of an interdisciplinary study of organic dementia, a psychologic test for assessing the degree of dementia--the Extended Scale for Dementia--was developed through the expansion and rescoring of the original Mattis Dementia Scale. Statistical analyses of the 23 test items resulted in a scoring scheme which includes the \"weighting\" of items for scoring purposes. The test was successfully administered to 90 subjects from 6 hospitals in the London (Ontario) region. With use of the Extended Scale, it was possible to discriminate between dementia and non-dementia groups of psychogeriatric inpatients and to correlate the findings closely with those of another measure of the degree of dementia, viz, the London Psychogeriatric Rating Scale (Ment.). Dementia patients who were retested after 6-month and 12-month intervals showed a significant decline in scores. No significant scoring differences were noted between males and females or between Alzheimer dementia and multi-infarct dementia.", "contents": "Development and application of the extended scale for dementia. As part of an interdisciplinary study of organic dementia, a psychologic test for assessing the degree of dementia--the Extended Scale for Dementia--was developed through the expansion and rescoring of the original Mattis Dementia Scale. Statistical analyses of the 23 test items resulted in a scoring scheme which includes the \"weighting\" of items for scoring purposes. The test was successfully administered to 90 subjects from 6 hospitals in the London (Ontario) region. With use of the Extended Scale, it was possible to discriminate between dementia and non-dementia groups of psychogeriatric inpatients and to correlate the findings closely with those of another measure of the degree of dementia, viz, the London Psychogeriatric Rating Scale (Ment.). Dementia patients who were retested after 6-month and 12-month intervals showed a significant decline in scores. No significant scoring differences were noted between males and females or between Alzheimer dementia and multi-infarct dementia.", "PMID": 458086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13090", "title": "Counseling the isolated elderly.", "content": "Increasing interest is manifest in the development of alternative models of counseling for older persons. Irrespective of the particular model used, the counseling of aged persons who have emotional and psychologic problems may require a treatment plan for health, mental health, and social services, to resolve the problems and to assess the functional limitations. Health and mental health centers employing both professional and nonprofessional counselors need to determine the value of adding outreach components to their services, and agencies which already have outreach programs may need to determine their relevance and effectiveness. Effective outreach requires a high level of gerontologic knowledge and clinical skills with aged patients. Agencies and clinics can design and implement mechanisms for supporting the elderly as they make use of multiple sources of service. Mobilization of the family and other informal helping networks in the community, the establishment of better coordination mechanisms within clinic and service programs, and multiple-service integration will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of long-term community care and follow-up programs.", "contents": "Counseling the isolated elderly. Increasing interest is manifest in the development of alternative models of counseling for older persons. Irrespective of the particular model used, the counseling of aged persons who have emotional and psychologic problems may require a treatment plan for health, mental health, and social services, to resolve the problems and to assess the functional limitations. Health and mental health centers employing both professional and nonprofessional counselors need to determine the value of adding outreach components to their services, and agencies which already have outreach programs may need to determine their relevance and effectiveness. Effective outreach requires a high level of gerontologic knowledge and clinical skills with aged patients. Agencies and clinics can design and implement mechanisms for supporting the elderly as they make use of multiple sources of service. Mobilization of the family and other informal helping networks in the community, the establishment of better coordination mechanisms within clinic and service programs, and multiple-service integration will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of long-term community care and follow-up programs.", "PMID": 458087} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13091", "title": "Cultural and sex differences in dietary patterns of the urban elderly.", "content": "A group of 182 elderly subjects (91 females, 91 males; 94 blacks, 88 whites) were interviewed with respect to background data, dietary habits, and health variables. Analysis of variance showed race and sex differences with respect to meal patterns and quality of diet. In addition, correlational analyses revealed associations between quality of diet and social class, education, health status, and the smoking of cigarettes. Associations were strongest for the black subjects.", "contents": "Cultural and sex differences in dietary patterns of the urban elderly. A group of 182 elderly subjects (91 females, 91 males; 94 blacks, 88 whites) were interviewed with respect to background data, dietary habits, and health variables. Analysis of variance showed race and sex differences with respect to meal patterns and quality of diet. In addition, correlational analyses revealed associations between quality of diet and social class, education, health status, and the smoking of cigarettes. Associations were strongest for the black subjects.", "PMID": 458088} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13092", "title": "Sensory deprivation and homeostasis.", "content": "Most afferent inputs are sensory stimulants, and physical activity is probably one of the most significant of all sensory stimulations. Gravity is a constant stimulus. These demands are also known as stress, and the stressor effect as the general adaptation syndrome (Selye). In this study, these demands are called sensory afferent stimuli, which are necessary triggers to start the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal mechanism and thus maintain the general mechanical, autonomic and metabolic functions of the body in the state of homeostasis. If the sensory stimulus is removed, there is no stressor effect and the cycle of response is eliminated. This results in a decreased hypothalamus-pituitary response and a decreased production of ACTH and corticoids. A decrease in the sensory input creates changes in the central nervous system and in the musculoskeletal system which are compatible with lack of the hypothalamus-pituitary responses. When a person becomes ill, physical inactivity as well as sensory and perceptual deprivation are at a maximum, and the absence of these stimuli interrupts the cycle of homeostasis. Physical activity is one of the most important stressors (sensory input) or triggering mechanisms for the cycle of homeostasis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cycle). Therefore, it is imperative to provide the patient with physical activities which ensure motion and take into account the effect of gravity. This is best accomplished by a program of physical, occupational and recreational therapy.", "contents": "Sensory deprivation and homeostasis. Most afferent inputs are sensory stimulants, and physical activity is probably one of the most significant of all sensory stimulations. Gravity is a constant stimulus. These demands are also known as stress, and the stressor effect as the general adaptation syndrome (Selye). In this study, these demands are called sensory afferent stimuli, which are necessary triggers to start the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal mechanism and thus maintain the general mechanical, autonomic and metabolic functions of the body in the state of homeostasis. If the sensory stimulus is removed, there is no stressor effect and the cycle of response is eliminated. This results in a decreased hypothalamus-pituitary response and a decreased production of ACTH and corticoids. A decrease in the sensory input creates changes in the central nervous system and in the musculoskeletal system which are compatible with lack of the hypothalamus-pituitary responses. When a person becomes ill, physical inactivity as well as sensory and perceptual deprivation are at a maximum, and the absence of these stimuli interrupts the cycle of homeostasis. Physical activity is one of the most important stressors (sensory input) or triggering mechanisms for the cycle of homeostasis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cycle). Therefore, it is imperative to provide the patient with physical activities which ensure motion and take into account the effect of gravity. This is best accomplished by a program of physical, occupational and recreational therapy.", "PMID": 458089} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13093", "title": "Incorporation of gerontology into medical education.", "content": "Despite the increasing importance of gerontology to medical practice, it has been difficult to incorporate it into the curriculum of most medical schools. The aim of this project was to explore the feasibility of introducing gerontology into medical education by utilizing the framework of an existing clinical program. A gerontologist used the structure and resources of a Psychiatry Consultation-Liaison Program for this purpose. Three groups of target trainees were identified: psychiatry residents on their Liaison rotation; junior medical students on their psychiatry clerkship; and medical-surgical house officers in the general hospital. The objectives were to impart didactic information and to counteract negative attitudes leading to disinterest in evaluating and treating the elderly. The results indicated a positive impact on all three trainee groups, and a diffusion of the gerontologic innovation from the initial locus of a clinical sub-unit into the medical center and the medical school.", "contents": "Incorporation of gerontology into medical education. Despite the increasing importance of gerontology to medical practice, it has been difficult to incorporate it into the curriculum of most medical schools. The aim of this project was to explore the feasibility of introducing gerontology into medical education by utilizing the framework of an existing clinical program. A gerontologist used the structure and resources of a Psychiatry Consultation-Liaison Program for this purpose. Three groups of target trainees were identified: psychiatry residents on their Liaison rotation; junior medical students on their psychiatry clerkship; and medical-surgical house officers in the general hospital. The objectives were to impart didactic information and to counteract negative attitudes leading to disinterest in evaluating and treating the elderly. The results indicated a positive impact on all three trainee groups, and a diffusion of the gerontologic innovation from the initial locus of a clinical sub-unit into the medical center and the medical school.", "PMID": 458090} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13094", "title": "Drug use in a geriatric population.", "content": "Drug usage was studied in a geriatric hypertension-screening program. A questionnaire was used to collect the required information from patients visiting the clinic during three successive years. The study included 1,711 patients, of whom 76.6 percent were regularly using a drug preparation. A consistent increase was noted in the average number of drug categories used with increasing age, from 1.6 in patients under 70 to 2.6 in patients over 84 years old. The most common drug categories involved were antihypertensive agents, cardiovascular drugs, vitamins, and internal analgesics.", "contents": "Drug use in a geriatric population. Drug usage was studied in a geriatric hypertension-screening program. A questionnaire was used to collect the required information from patients visiting the clinic during three successive years. The study included 1,711 patients, of whom 76.6 percent were regularly using a drug preparation. A consistent increase was noted in the average number of drug categories used with increasing age, from 1.6 in patients under 70 to 2.6 in patients over 84 years old. The most common drug categories involved were antihypertensive agents, cardiovascular drugs, vitamins, and internal analgesics.", "PMID": 458091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13095", "title": "Bronchoextrapleural fistula after extrapleural pneumonolysis.", "content": "This case illustrates the development of a bronchoextrapleural fistula 40 years after extrapleural pneumonolysis with placement of a paraffin pack. The various diagnostic possibilities in the presence of such a radiographic presentation are reviewed.", "contents": "Bronchoextrapleural fistula after extrapleural pneumonolysis. This case illustrates the development of a bronchoextrapleural fistula 40 years after extrapleural pneumonolysis with placement of a paraffin pack. The various diagnostic possibilities in the presence of such a radiographic presentation are reviewed.", "PMID": 458092} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13096", "title": "Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and disease in the elderly.", "content": "The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is not always elevated in relation to disease. Of 188 elderly autopsy patients studied, 125 had nonmalignant disease and 63 had malignant disease. Of the patients with malignant disease, 13 percent had a clinical ESR of less than 10 mm/hr and 26 percent a rate of less than 20 mm/hr, the upper level of normal for the elderly. Of the patients with nonmalignant disease, 9.6 percent had an ESR of less than 10 mm/hr and 25.6 percent a rate of less than 20 mm/hr. Thus, in about a quarter of the patients, the ESR was below the top normal level for the elderly. Moreover, the ESR may be as high as 35--40 mm/hr in healthy aged persons. Therefore, the ESR is unreliable as a test for the presence of disease (malignant or nonmalignant) in the elderly.", "contents": "Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and disease in the elderly. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is not always elevated in relation to disease. Of 188 elderly autopsy patients studied, 125 had nonmalignant disease and 63 had malignant disease. Of the patients with malignant disease, 13 percent had a clinical ESR of less than 10 mm/hr and 26 percent a rate of less than 20 mm/hr, the upper level of normal for the elderly. Of the patients with nonmalignant disease, 9.6 percent had an ESR of less than 10 mm/hr and 25.6 percent a rate of less than 20 mm/hr. Thus, in about a quarter of the patients, the ESR was below the top normal level for the elderly. Moreover, the ESR may be as high as 35--40 mm/hr in healthy aged persons. Therefore, the ESR is unreliable as a test for the presence of disease (malignant or nonmalignant) in the elderly.", "PMID": 458093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13097", "title": "Intraocular lenses and their follow-up in the optometric office.", "content": "A broad overview of intraocular lens implantation is presented for the optometrist. Included in this overview is a review of the most recent literature comparing complication rates for lens implants versus standard cataract surgery. A proportion of the paper addresses itself to the pre and post-operative optometric management of the pseudophakic patient. This paper is presented to give the optometrist a basic understanding of the expanding field of intraocular lens implantation as well as a reference list which will serve as a starting point for further review.", "contents": "Intraocular lenses and their follow-up in the optometric office. A broad overview of intraocular lens implantation is presented for the optometrist. Included in this overview is a review of the most recent literature comparing complication rates for lens implants versus standard cataract surgery. A proportion of the paper addresses itself to the pre and post-operative optometric management of the pseudophakic patient. This paper is presented to give the optometrist a basic understanding of the expanding field of intraocular lens implantation as well as a reference list which will serve as a starting point for further review.", "PMID": 458094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13098", "title": "The influence of a national health policy on optometry and optometric education in Ontario.", "content": "Until recently Canada had little or no direction toward forming a National Health Policy. It was not until 1961 that a government agency served as an impetus in establishing a health care program. With this however, came the challenge for optometry to defend itself against the ophthalmological society in an effort to receive its fair share of recognition. Optometry met this challenge, both in the institutional and practical setting. As a result legislation was passed to establish very positive guidelines for the optometric community including the definition of optometry, peer review, standards of practice, continuing education, and the use of diagnostic drugs. Since then, Canada's Minister of Health issued a statement to elaborate on a number of health related issues. In this 1974 statement he emphasized the value of care should be comparable to that of cure. To meet this need a reemphasis on educational training would have to be met. Optometry has looked toward this policy to plan for its future educational objectives and methods of practice. Because these public policies have been formed in a positive way toward optometry the Canadian optometrist will continue to work toward the goal of being a better practitioner within the scope of this Canadian policy.", "contents": "The influence of a national health policy on optometry and optometric education in Ontario. Until recently Canada had little or no direction toward forming a National Health Policy. It was not until 1961 that a government agency served as an impetus in establishing a health care program. With this however, came the challenge for optometry to defend itself against the ophthalmological society in an effort to receive its fair share of recognition. Optometry met this challenge, both in the institutional and practical setting. As a result legislation was passed to establish very positive guidelines for the optometric community including the definition of optometry, peer review, standards of practice, continuing education, and the use of diagnostic drugs. Since then, Canada's Minister of Health issued a statement to elaborate on a number of health related issues. In this 1974 statement he emphasized the value of care should be comparable to that of cure. To meet this need a reemphasis on educational training would have to be met. Optometry has looked toward this policy to plan for its future educational objectives and methods of practice. Because these public policies have been formed in a positive way toward optometry the Canadian optometrist will continue to work toward the goal of being a better practitioner within the scope of this Canadian policy.", "PMID": 458096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13099", "title": "The current status of auotomobile running lights.", "content": "The results of a number of studies of the use of lights to make a vehicle more visible have shown that they are effective. Accident studies have shown a drop in accidents from 7 to 59%. Only one of the studies used properly designed and positioned presence and signal lights and yielded 59% fewer accidents. It is concluded that a 50% or greater reduction of accidents is probable when using a high mounted 360 degrees visibility signal and running light combination.", "contents": "The current status of auotomobile running lights. The results of a number of studies of the use of lights to make a vehicle more visible have shown that they are effective. Accident studies have shown a drop in accidents from 7 to 59%. Only one of the studies used properly designed and positioned presence and signal lights and yielded 59% fewer accidents. It is concluded that a 50% or greater reduction of accidents is probable when using a high mounted 360 degrees visibility signal and running light combination.", "PMID": 458097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13100", "title": "Multiple sclerosis: etiology and epidemiology.", "content": "Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating, auto-immune disease which affect the central nervous system. The research seems to implicate a small or incomplete slow-growing virus as the causative agent. The measles virus has been suspected because of high titers of measles antibodies in MS patients' serum and cerebrospinal fluid. An immunological deficiency in MS patients may be linked to genetic factors such as HL-A tissue types and histocompatibility antigens. Genetics and socioeconomic conditions may also result in the distinct geographical pattern of MS distribution in the world.", "contents": "Multiple sclerosis: etiology and epidemiology. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating, auto-immune disease which affect the central nervous system. The research seems to implicate a small or incomplete slow-growing virus as the causative agent. The measles virus has been suspected because of high titers of measles antibodies in MS patients' serum and cerebrospinal fluid. An immunological deficiency in MS patients may be linked to genetic factors such as HL-A tissue types and histocompatibility antigens. Genetics and socioeconomic conditions may also result in the distinct geographical pattern of MS distribution in the world.", "PMID": 458098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13101", "title": "Early identification of multiple sclerosis through ocularly manifested symptoms.", "content": "Eye care professionals can play an important role in the early detection of multiple sclerosis (MS) since the disease often has ocular manifestations such as optic neuritis. In conjunction with optic neuritis, symptoms such as ocular pain, acuity reduction, visual field loss, blurred or edematous discs, nystagmus, and diplopia may be present. Although MS still has no cure, early identification can aid in beginning the treatment of the symptoms.", "contents": "Early identification of multiple sclerosis through ocularly manifested symptoms. Eye care professionals can play an important role in the early detection of multiple sclerosis (MS) since the disease often has ocular manifestations such as optic neuritis. In conjunction with optic neuritis, symptoms such as ocular pain, acuity reduction, visual field loss, blurred or edematous discs, nystagmus, and diplopia may be present. Although MS still has no cure, early identification can aid in beginning the treatment of the symptoms.", "PMID": 458099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13102", "title": "Steady state VER measurement of visual system latency in normal and multiple sclerosis patients.", "content": "VERs were recorded from 30 normal and two multiple sclerosis (MS) subjects using a steady state checkerboard stimulus. The normal subjects produced a mean OU latency of 90.8 msec with a mean absolute interocular latency difference of 3.2 msec. Latencies from the MS patients were up to 13 standard deviations longer than the latencies from the normal subjects.", "contents": "Steady state VER measurement of visual system latency in normal and multiple sclerosis patients. VERs were recorded from 30 normal and two multiple sclerosis (MS) subjects using a steady state checkerboard stimulus. The normal subjects produced a mean OU latency of 90.8 msec with a mean absolute interocular latency difference of 3.2 msec. Latencies from the MS patients were up to 13 standard deviations longer than the latencies from the normal subjects.", "PMID": 458100} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13103", "title": "A clinical study: plastic lens warpage.", "content": "This clinical study of ophthalmic plastic lens warpage reviews prior work and confirms the presence of warpage. However, there were no patient symptoms related to the warpage, especially if within the ANSI Z80.1 standards.", "contents": "A clinical study: plastic lens warpage. This clinical study of ophthalmic plastic lens warpage reviews prior work and confirms the presence of warpage. However, there were no patient symptoms related to the warpage, especially if within the ANSI Z80.1 standards.", "PMID": 458101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13104", "title": "Quality assurance and optometry.", "content": "About 120 years ago the first attempt to determine the quality of treatment was made. Today, in the face of increased consumer awareness, third party payments for optometric care, and the advent of National Health Insurance legislations optometry must prepare itself for quality assurance programs. Specific methods are described along with the steps necessary to accomplish the needs of the profession.", "contents": "Quality assurance and optometry. About 120 years ago the first attempt to determine the quality of treatment was made. Today, in the face of increased consumer awareness, third party payments for optometric care, and the advent of National Health Insurance legislations optometry must prepare itself for quality assurance programs. Specific methods are described along with the steps necessary to accomplish the needs of the profession.", "PMID": 458102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13105", "title": "Toxocara canis.", "content": "Toxocara canis, commonly known as the dog ascrid, is a frequent parasite of the domestic dog. If the eggs of an adult worm are accidentally ingested by a human host, usually a child, a larval form of the worm develops that can survive for a limited period in various human tissues. The retina is one of these tissues and upon the death of this organism a granulomatous reaction occurs and a fibrotic mass is formed in the retina. This unusual ophthalmoscopic appearance is demonstrated by the presentation of three fundus photographs of patients with suspected Toxocara lesions. A knowledge of this parasite and its life cycle will aid in its recognition, treatment, and possible prevention.", "contents": "Toxocara canis. Toxocara canis, commonly known as the dog ascrid, is a frequent parasite of the domestic dog. If the eggs of an adult worm are accidentally ingested by a human host, usually a child, a larval form of the worm develops that can survive for a limited period in various human tissues. The retina is one of these tissues and upon the death of this organism a granulomatous reaction occurs and a fibrotic mass is formed in the retina. This unusual ophthalmoscopic appearance is demonstrated by the presentation of three fundus photographs of patients with suspected Toxocara lesions. A knowledge of this parasite and its life cycle will aid in its recognition, treatment, and possible prevention.", "PMID": 458104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13106", "title": "A procedure for measuring the near-point fusional vergence reserves of young children.", "content": "This paper describes a modification of the standard method for measuring near-point fusional vergence reserves that reduces dependency upon patient's verbal responses by employing a fixation target that can be perceived accurately only when viewed binocularly. As such, the procedure is particularly useful with young children whose subjective responses often tend to be unreliable. Data from 34 preschool children are reported.", "contents": "A procedure for measuring the near-point fusional vergence reserves of young children. This paper describes a modification of the standard method for measuring near-point fusional vergence reserves that reduces dependency upon patient's verbal responses by employing a fixation target that can be perceived accurately only when viewed binocularly. As such, the procedure is particularly useful with young children whose subjective responses often tend to be unreliable. Data from 34 preschool children are reported.", "PMID": 458105} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13107", "title": "Visual imagery and written language.", "content": "The importance of visual imagery in optometric diagnosis and therapy is discussed, stressing its relationship to the auditory-verbal system and its effect on reading and spelling. Techniques are presented to aid in determining visual imagery capability as well as in aiding the patient to utilize this ability for analytical-verbal tasks.", "contents": "Visual imagery and written language. The importance of visual imagery in optometric diagnosis and therapy is discussed, stressing its relationship to the auditory-verbal system and its effect on reading and spelling. Techniques are presented to aid in determining visual imagery capability as well as in aiding the patient to utilize this ability for analytical-verbal tasks.", "PMID": 458106} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13108", "title": "Optical identification and traceability potentials.", "content": "This brief outline of optical identification potentials alerts law enforcement agencies to the early developments in the field. The present elective system of I.D. classification may become a mandatory program for universal traceability in the future.", "contents": "Optical identification and traceability potentials. This brief outline of optical identification potentials alerts law enforcement agencies to the early developments in the field. The present elective system of I.D. classification may become a mandatory program for universal traceability in the future.", "PMID": 458108} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13109", "title": "The 1979 revision of Z80.1--the American National Standard recommendations for prescription ophthalmic lenses--the AOA position.", "content": "Since April, 1972, the American National Standard Requirements for First-Quality Prescription Ophthalmic Lenses, Z80.1-1972, has been in the process of revision. The American National Standards Institute procedures are explained as well as details of the new revised standard. In addition, an explanation of the AOA position on the revision is given. Finally, what this standard means to the practicing optometrists is discussed.", "contents": "The 1979 revision of Z80.1--the American National Standard recommendations for prescription ophthalmic lenses--the AOA position. Since April, 1972, the American National Standard Requirements for First-Quality Prescription Ophthalmic Lenses, Z80.1-1972, has been in the process of revision. The American National Standards Institute procedures are explained as well as details of the new revised standard. In addition, an explanation of the AOA position on the revision is given. Finally, what this standard means to the practicing optometrists is discussed.", "PMID": 458115} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13110", "title": "Z80.1 and the state of the art.", "content": "Ophthalmic standards such as ANSI Z80.1, 1979 (Recommendation for Prescription Ophthalmic Lenses) are developed by the joint effort of many disciplines from eye care practitioners to suppliers and manufacturers. The tolerances, agreed upon by consensus, are fundamentally controlled by the state of the art, that is upon the quality of product which can be reliably produced by competent personnel using standard methods of processing. Research has demonstrated that the Z80.1, 1972 standard had been set at a level above the state of the art for today's lenses. Some of the tolerances in the 1979 revision were therefore lowered so as to establish a more realistic guideline. The new standard, if diligently applied by both laboratories and dispensers, should lead, however, to an increase and not a reduction in product quality.", "contents": "Z80.1 and the state of the art. Ophthalmic standards such as ANSI Z80.1, 1979 (Recommendation for Prescription Ophthalmic Lenses) are developed by the joint effort of many disciplines from eye care practitioners to suppliers and manufacturers. The tolerances, agreed upon by consensus, are fundamentally controlled by the state of the art, that is upon the quality of product which can be reliably produced by competent personnel using standard methods of processing. Research has demonstrated that the Z80.1, 1972 standard had been set at a level above the state of the art for today's lenses. Some of the tolerances in the 1979 revision were therefore lowered so as to establish a more realistic guideline. The new standard, if diligently applied by both laboratories and dispensers, should lead, however, to an increase and not a reduction in product quality.", "PMID": 458116} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13111", "title": "The optometrist's new role in the use of corrected curve lenses.", "content": "The new role is brought about by new laboratory practices in the use of stock semifinished and uncut lenses in filling orders and in the changes in standards for design requirements. A partial solution to this problem is proposed.", "contents": "The optometrist's new role in the use of corrected curve lenses. The new role is brought about by new laboratory practices in the use of stock semifinished and uncut lenses in filling orders and in the changes in standards for design requirements. A partial solution to this problem is proposed.", "PMID": 458117} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13112", "title": "The Commission on Ophthalmic standards--the American Optometric Association's standards development program.", "content": "The American Optometric Association has been concerned with ophthalmic standards for over fifty years. This paper describes this involvement and how it has led to the creation of the Commission on Ophthalmic Standards. The commission's scope and function and the responsibilities of the Director of Standards Development are given. The progress of the commission's program has been temporarily delayed due to a proposed FTC rule on voluntary standards setting organizations.", "contents": "The Commission on Ophthalmic standards--the American Optometric Association's standards development program. The American Optometric Association has been concerned with ophthalmic standards for over fifty years. This paper describes this involvement and how it has led to the creation of the Commission on Ophthalmic Standards. The commission's scope and function and the responsibilities of the Director of Standards Development are given. The progress of the commission's program has been temporarily delayed due to a proposed FTC rule on voluntary standards setting organizations.", "PMID": 458118} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13113", "title": "Standards and technology.", "content": "Improvements in standards and technology go hand in hand. A careful study of standards as related to the state of the art always brings to light the need for improving technology. The study involved in revising the 1972 ANSI Z80.1 Standard for Ophthalmic Lenses has focused attention on several new and upcoming developments. These relate (1) to the predetermination of the edger setting, and the use of the perimeter of a lens, (2) the accurate control of centers, (3) the measurement of power and axis, and unwanted power in the periphery, (4) the use of computers in generating the shape of a lens and the location of the MRP, and (5) the standardization of shapes.", "contents": "Standards and technology. Improvements in standards and technology go hand in hand. A careful study of standards as related to the state of the art always brings to light the need for improving technology. The study involved in revising the 1972 ANSI Z80.1 Standard for Ophthalmic Lenses has focused attention on several new and upcoming developments. These relate (1) to the predetermination of the edger setting, and the use of the perimeter of a lens, (2) the accurate control of centers, (3) the measurement of power and axis, and unwanted power in the periphery, (4) the use of computers in generating the shape of a lens and the location of the MRP, and (5) the standardization of shapes.", "PMID": 458119} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13114", "title": "Tolerance to tolerances: some thoughts on the 1979 American National Standard recommendations for prescription ophthalmic lenses.", "content": "The 1979 revision of the ANSI Z80.1 Ophthalmic Lens Standards resulted in rather significant changes affecting three areas of ophthalmic lens requirements: 1) central refractive characteristics, 2) prismatic characterstics, and 3) factors relating to the magnification properties of lenses. Based primarily on what an optical laboratory could consistently produce, the ANSI Ophthalmic Lens Sub-committee decided to widen some of the tolerances over those expressed in previous revisions. This paper attempts to show how these new tolerances relate to certain aspects of patient sensitivity to errors induced by ophthalmic lenses conforming with the new revision.", "contents": "Tolerance to tolerances: some thoughts on the 1979 American National Standard recommendations for prescription ophthalmic lenses. The 1979 revision of the ANSI Z80.1 Ophthalmic Lens Standards resulted in rather significant changes affecting three areas of ophthalmic lens requirements: 1) central refractive characteristics, 2) prismatic characterstics, and 3) factors relating to the magnification properties of lenses. Based primarily on what an optical laboratory could consistently produce, the ANSI Ophthalmic Lens Sub-committee decided to widen some of the tolerances over those expressed in previous revisions. This paper attempts to show how these new tolerances relate to certain aspects of patient sensitivity to errors induced by ophthalmic lenses conforming with the new revision.", "PMID": 458120} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13115", "title": "The dotting lens.", "content": "A dotting lens is an auxiliary lens placed in front of the telescope of a focimeter. It images a dot on the center of the lens under test on the scale in the eyepiece. A hole in the dotting lens permits simultaneous meaurement of the sample.", "contents": "The dotting lens. A dotting lens is an auxiliary lens placed in front of the telescope of a focimeter. It images a dot on the center of the lens under test on the scale in the eyepiece. A hole in the dotting lens permits simultaneous meaurement of the sample.", "PMID": 458121} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13116", "title": "The age of specialization and its future influence on optometry.", "content": "As overview of the future role of specialization in optometry is presented, and topics such as the necessity and desirability of optometric specialties, certification of specialists, referrals to specialists, training of specialists, and the impact of public opinion, governmental programs, expanded use of the optometric auxiliaries, and advances in technology on optometric specialization are examined.", "contents": "The age of specialization and its future influence on optometry. As overview of the future role of specialization in optometry is presented, and topics such as the necessity and desirability of optometric specialties, certification of specialists, referrals to specialists, training of specialists, and the impact of public opinion, governmental programs, expanded use of the optometric auxiliaries, and advances in technology on optometric specialization are examined.", "PMID": 458122} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13117", "title": "The effect of praziquantel on Schistosoma mansoni.", "content": "3 x 10(-6)M praziquantel fails to completely paralyse miracidia and cercariae in a short time but they are not infective when maintained in the solution. 3 x 10(-5)M praziquantel prevents infected snails shedding cercariae but does not kill daughter sporocyts or developing cercariae. As the action of praziquantel on adult worms is not blocked by 10(-2)M mecamylamine, pempidine or carbachol, but is reduced by calcium depletion, it is suggested that praziquantel may act by permitting calcium influx to muscle cells causing them to contract.", "contents": "The effect of praziquantel on Schistosoma mansoni. 3 x 10(-6)M praziquantel fails to completely paralyse miracidia and cercariae in a short time but they are not infective when maintained in the solution. 3 x 10(-5)M praziquantel prevents infected snails shedding cercariae but does not kill daughter sporocyts or developing cercariae. As the action of praziquantel on adult worms is not blocked by 10(-2)M mecamylamine, pempidine or carbachol, but is reduced by calcium depletion, it is suggested that praziquantel may act by permitting calcium influx to muscle cells causing them to contract.", "PMID": 458128} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13118", "title": "Intestinal mast cells during experimental ancylostomiasis.", "content": "The alterations of mast cell counts induced in the gut of swiss albino mice by infection with Ancylostoma caninum larvae have been studied, both in single and multiple infections. It was found that mast cell rise was greater in females than males. In singly infected animals, mast cell increase was influenced by the infective dose of inoculated larvae. In case of repeatedly infected mice, mast cell counts were decreased because of their earlier degranulation.", "contents": "Intestinal mast cells during experimental ancylostomiasis. The alterations of mast cell counts induced in the gut of swiss albino mice by infection with Ancylostoma caninum larvae have been studied, both in single and multiple infections. It was found that mast cell rise was greater in females than males. In singly infected animals, mast cell increase was influenced by the infective dose of inoculated larvae. In case of repeatedly infected mice, mast cell counts were decreased because of their earlier degranulation.", "PMID": 458129} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13119", "title": "Strigeoid trematodes of Malaysia with descriptions of a new genus and three new species.", "content": "Six species of strigeoid trematodes are reported from Malaysia. One new genus and 3 new species are described: Apatemon (Apatemon( jamesi sp. n (Strigeidae); cercaria Cotylurus sullivani sp. n. (Strigeidae); Neodiplostomum (Neodiplostomum) sp. (Diplostomatidae); Fibricola ramachandrani (Diplostomatidae); Pseudoscolopacitrema otteri gen. n. et sp. n. (Diplostomatidae); and cercaria Cyathocotyle malayi sp. n. (Cyathocotylidae). The life cycles of A. jamesi and C. malayi have also been investigated.", "contents": "Strigeoid trematodes of Malaysia with descriptions of a new genus and three new species. Six species of strigeoid trematodes are reported from Malaysia. One new genus and 3 new species are described: Apatemon (Apatemon( jamesi sp. n (Strigeidae); cercaria Cotylurus sullivani sp. n. (Strigeidae); Neodiplostomum (Neodiplostomum) sp. (Diplostomatidae); Fibricola ramachandrani (Diplostomatidae); Pseudoscolopacitrema otteri gen. n. et sp. n. (Diplostomatidae); and cercaria Cyathocotyle malayi sp. n. (Cyathocotylidae). The life cycles of A. jamesi and C. malayi have also been investigated.", "PMID": 458132} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13120", "title": "Dunnifilaria dilli sp. n. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) from Rattus koratensis in Thailand.", "content": "Dunnifilaria dilli, a new species of filariid from Rattus koratensis from Thailand is described. Adult worms were recovered from the lymphatic system. They differ from D. ramachandrani in their location in the host, the tail length, the shape of the spicules, and in the number of caudal papillae. Microfilariae are much smaller and unsheathed. Additional hosts include R. rattus and R. sabanus.", "contents": "Dunnifilaria dilli sp. n. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) from Rattus koratensis in Thailand. Dunnifilaria dilli, a new species of filariid from Rattus koratensis from Thailand is described. Adult worms were recovered from the lymphatic system. They differ from D. ramachandrani in their location in the host, the tail length, the shape of the spicules, and in the number of caudal papillae. Microfilariae are much smaller and unsheathed. Additional hosts include R. rattus and R. sabanus.", "PMID": 458135} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13121", "title": "Accumulation of peroxidase in the cap rays of Acetabularia during the development of gametangia.", "content": "Accumulation of peroxidase was demonstrated by light and electron microscopy to occur in Acetabularia in certain regions of the cap rays in relation to the development of the gametangia (cysts). Peroxidase was found to be incorporated into special, cell wall-like obstructions that separate the cap rays from the stalk when the secondary nuclei have settled in the cap rays. It is assumed that peroxidase acts as an anti-microbial protectant of the gametangia.", "contents": "Accumulation of peroxidase in the cap rays of Acetabularia during the development of gametangia. Accumulation of peroxidase was demonstrated by light and electron microscopy to occur in Acetabularia in certain regions of the cap rays in relation to the development of the gametangia (cysts). Peroxidase was found to be incorporated into special, cell wall-like obstructions that separate the cap rays from the stalk when the secondary nuclei have settled in the cap rays. It is assumed that peroxidase acts as an anti-microbial protectant of the gametangia.", "PMID": 458136} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13122", "title": "Electronic sorting of granulocyte precursor cells from stimulated bone marrow.", "content": "A commerical cell sorter was used to obtain preparations of cells in various stages of granulocyte development from rabbit marrows stimulated by inflammatory response. Marrow cells were fractionated on density gradients of Ficoll/Hypaque and each fraction sorted using light scatter. Trial and error selection of appropriate gradient fractions and light scatter windows allowed sorting of early (blast cells, promyelocytes), intermediate (myelocytes, metamyelocytes) and late stage (band cells, polys) granulocytes with enhanced purity.", "contents": "Electronic sorting of granulocyte precursor cells from stimulated bone marrow. A commerical cell sorter was used to obtain preparations of cells in various stages of granulocyte development from rabbit marrows stimulated by inflammatory response. Marrow cells were fractionated on density gradients of Ficoll/Hypaque and each fraction sorted using light scatter. Trial and error selection of appropriate gradient fractions and light scatter windows allowed sorting of early (blast cells, promyelocytes), intermediate (myelocytes, metamyelocytes) and late stage (band cells, polys) granulocytes with enhanced purity.", "PMID": 458137} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13123", "title": "Epidemic mechanisms of type A influenza.", "content": "The antigenic varieties of influenza A virus isolated from 1968 to 1976 in a surveillance of a small, rather remote population were similar to those from England and Wales as a whole, despite frequent antigenic changes during the period. Household studies in the first two H3N2 influenza A epidemics found low attack rates within households, a high proportion (70%) of affected households with only one case of influenza, similar distributions of affected households in the two epidemics by the number of cases of influenza and similar distributions of the influenza cases by the day of their onset in the household outbreak. No serial interval could be demonstrated by cumulating household outbreaks. More than one minor variant was causing influenza contemporaneously in the same villages in several seasons, and different variants were on one occasion found on successive days in bedfellows. The regular occurrence of epidemics in winter was often accompanied by the disappearance of the epidemic variants and their replacement, after a virus-free interval, by new variants. These epidemiological findings seem best interpreted on the following tentative hypothesis. Influenza A sufferers do not transmit the virus during their illness; instead it rapidly becomes latent in their tissues so that they become symptomless carrier-hosts and develop specific immunity. Next season an extraneous seasonally mediated stimulus reactivates the latent virus residues so that the carrier-host becomes briefly infectious, though symptomless. Antigenic drift occurs because particles reconstituted to be identical with the progenitor virus cannot escape the specific immunity it has provoked in the carrier host. He can shed only mutants also determined by the progenitor virus. From the assortment of mutants shed by the carrier-host, his non-immune companions select that (those) which is best fitted to survive, and it rapidly causes influenzal illness. Epidemics consist largely or entirely of such persons sick with influenza caused by reactivated virus caught from symptomless carrier-hosts.", "contents": "Epidemic mechanisms of type A influenza. The antigenic varieties of influenza A virus isolated from 1968 to 1976 in a surveillance of a small, rather remote population were similar to those from England and Wales as a whole, despite frequent antigenic changes during the period. Household studies in the first two H3N2 influenza A epidemics found low attack rates within households, a high proportion (70%) of affected households with only one case of influenza, similar distributions of affected households in the two epidemics by the number of cases of influenza and similar distributions of the influenza cases by the day of their onset in the household outbreak. No serial interval could be demonstrated by cumulating household outbreaks. More than one minor variant was causing influenza contemporaneously in the same villages in several seasons, and different variants were on one occasion found on successive days in bedfellows. The regular occurrence of epidemics in winter was often accompanied by the disappearance of the epidemic variants and their replacement, after a virus-free interval, by new variants. These epidemiological findings seem best interpreted on the following tentative hypothesis. Influenza A sufferers do not transmit the virus during their illness; instead it rapidly becomes latent in their tissues so that they become symptomless carrier-hosts and develop specific immunity. Next season an extraneous seasonally mediated stimulus reactivates the latent virus residues so that the carrier-host becomes briefly infectious, though symptomless. Antigenic drift occurs because particles reconstituted to be identical with the progenitor virus cannot escape the specific immunity it has provoked in the carrier host. He can shed only mutants also determined by the progenitor virus. From the assortment of mutants shed by the carrier-host, his non-immune companions select that (those) which is best fitted to survive, and it rapidly causes influenzal illness. Epidemics consist largely or entirely of such persons sick with influenza caused by reactivated virus caught from symptomless carrier-hosts.", "PMID": 458138} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13124", "title": "The relative resistance of f2 bacteriophage to inactivation by disinfectants.", "content": "f2 bacteriophage in the presence of fetal calf serum (at a final concentration of 10%) was exposed to six commonly used disinfectants for times of 10, 20 and 30 sec. At the end of exposure times skim milk neutralized the disinfectant activity and residual virus was assayed using the plaque technique. The 6 disinfectants considered were Javex, sodium hydroxide, ethanol, Wescodyne, One Stroke Ves-Phene and Sonacide. A 0.25% (w/v) solution of sodium hydroxide and 1/50 Javex (1200 parts/10(6) chlorine) were the most effective of the six disinfectants considered since 10(5) f2 bacteriophage were inactivated in 30 seconds in each instance. Since a 0.25% (w/v) solution of sodium hydroxide had a pH of 12.5 this made it too caustic to use as a disinfectant in many practical situations. It was concluded therefore that Javex at some dilution less than 1/50 (greater than 1200 parts/10(6) chlorine) was the most practical of the six disinfectants to use. Ethanol (95%, v/v) inactivated 10(3) f2 bacteriophage in 30 seconds while 1/20 Wescodyne and undiluted Sonacide inactivated 10(1)-virus particles. Ves-Phene at a dilution of 1/50 was a completely ineffective virucide during the 30 sec exposure. The resistance of f2 bacteriophage to inactivation by these six disinfectants was compared with that of echovirus 11 and coxsackievirus B5. In all instances except exposure to undiluted Sonacide, f2 was comparable in resistance to inactivation and in many cases had greater resistance.", "contents": "The relative resistance of f2 bacteriophage to inactivation by disinfectants. f2 bacteriophage in the presence of fetal calf serum (at a final concentration of 10%) was exposed to six commonly used disinfectants for times of 10, 20 and 30 sec. At the end of exposure times skim milk neutralized the disinfectant activity and residual virus was assayed using the plaque technique. The 6 disinfectants considered were Javex, sodium hydroxide, ethanol, Wescodyne, One Stroke Ves-Phene and Sonacide. A 0.25% (w/v) solution of sodium hydroxide and 1/50 Javex (1200 parts/10(6) chlorine) were the most effective of the six disinfectants considered since 10(5) f2 bacteriophage were inactivated in 30 seconds in each instance. Since a 0.25% (w/v) solution of sodium hydroxide had a pH of 12.5 this made it too caustic to use as a disinfectant in many practical situations. It was concluded therefore that Javex at some dilution less than 1/50 (greater than 1200 parts/10(6) chlorine) was the most practical of the six disinfectants to use. Ethanol (95%, v/v) inactivated 10(3) f2 bacteriophage in 30 seconds while 1/20 Wescodyne and undiluted Sonacide inactivated 10(1)-virus particles. Ves-Phene at a dilution of 1/50 was a completely ineffective virucide during the 30 sec exposure. The resistance of f2 bacteriophage to inactivation by these six disinfectants was compared with that of echovirus 11 and coxsackievirus B5. In all instances except exposure to undiluted Sonacide, f2 was comparable in resistance to inactivation and in many cases had greater resistance.", "PMID": 458139} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13125", "title": "The use of spore strips for monitoring the sterilization of bottled fluids.", "content": "A bacterial spore test has been developed which enables the efficacy of the sterilizing cycle recommended by the British Pharmaceutical Codex (1973) for bottled fluids to be accurately monitored. During a 14-month period this test detected faults in 3.3% of the sterilizing cycles, representing five distinct episodes of sterilization failure that passed unnoticed by the conventional controls of physical measurements and sterility testing. There were no failures of sterilization as detected by conventional techniques which were not indicated by the spore test.", "contents": "The use of spore strips for monitoring the sterilization of bottled fluids. A bacterial spore test has been developed which enables the efficacy of the sterilizing cycle recommended by the British Pharmaceutical Codex (1973) for bottled fluids to be accurately monitored. During a 14-month period this test detected faults in 3.3% of the sterilizing cycles, representing five distinct episodes of sterilization failure that passed unnoticed by the conventional controls of physical measurements and sterility testing. There were no failures of sterilization as detected by conventional techniques which were not indicated by the spore test.", "PMID": 458140} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13126", "title": "The effect of long-term exposure to cigarette smoke on the height and specificity of the secondary immune response to influenza virus in a murine model system.", "content": "The effect of long-term exposure to cigarette smoke on the height and specificity of the secondary humoral immune response to influenza was investigated in a murine model system. It was shown that if mice were pre-immunized with a sub-lethal infection of influenza virus and then exposed to cigarette smoke daily for 36 weeks, they were able to mount a secondary immune response of normal height on subsequent challenge with the homologous virus strain. The response however, was less specific than that elicited in control mice, with high titres of cross-reacting antibody by haemagglutination-inhibition to the following strain in the same antigenic series. Recall of antibody to the previous strain in the antigenic series was not observed in either control or smoke-exposed animals. These results serve to correct an earlier discrepancy between the murine system and human studies in which the response to influenza infection in mice was depressed by prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, whereas in man the response of smokers did not differ significantly from that of non-smokers. This apparent discrepancy had been caused by a lack of previous experience of influenza in the mice, which had therefore mounted a primary response, compared with the secondary response observed in the human studies.", "contents": "The effect of long-term exposure to cigarette smoke on the height and specificity of the secondary immune response to influenza virus in a murine model system. The effect of long-term exposure to cigarette smoke on the height and specificity of the secondary humoral immune response to influenza was investigated in a murine model system. It was shown that if mice were pre-immunized with a sub-lethal infection of influenza virus and then exposed to cigarette smoke daily for 36 weeks, they were able to mount a secondary immune response of normal height on subsequent challenge with the homologous virus strain. The response however, was less specific than that elicited in control mice, with high titres of cross-reacting antibody by haemagglutination-inhibition to the following strain in the same antigenic series. Recall of antibody to the previous strain in the antigenic series was not observed in either control or smoke-exposed animals. These results serve to correct an earlier discrepancy between the murine system and human studies in which the response to influenza infection in mice was depressed by prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, whereas in man the response of smokers did not differ significantly from that of non-smokers. This apparent discrepancy had been caused by a lack of previous experience of influenza in the mice, which had therefore mounted a primary response, compared with the secondary response observed in the human studies.", "PMID": 458141} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13127", "title": "The effect of air ionization on the air-borne transmission of experimental Newcastle disease virus infections in chickens.", "content": "The effect of artificial air-ionization on air-borne transmission of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infection in chickens was studied in an isolated system consisting of two side-by-side cages with solid walls and a wire-gauze roof. During a 3-week observation period more than 90% of the uninoculated indicator chickens, housed in one of the cages, contracted the virus shed to the air by the NDV-inoculated, diseased birds in the neighbouring cage. This air-borne transmission of NDV was completely prevented by increasing the ion concentration in the test room by a constant negative corona discharge above the wire-gauze roof. On the other hand, spreading of the infection within a group of chickens housed in a single cage was not affected by air ionization. These and other results suggest that artificial air-ionization may protect animals from certain air-borne infections by interfering with microbial aerosol formation and/or by facilitating their decay.", "contents": "The effect of air ionization on the air-borne transmission of experimental Newcastle disease virus infections in chickens. The effect of artificial air-ionization on air-borne transmission of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infection in chickens was studied in an isolated system consisting of two side-by-side cages with solid walls and a wire-gauze roof. During a 3-week observation period more than 90% of the uninoculated indicator chickens, housed in one of the cages, contracted the virus shed to the air by the NDV-inoculated, diseased birds in the neighbouring cage. This air-borne transmission of NDV was completely prevented by increasing the ion concentration in the test room by a constant negative corona discharge above the wire-gauze roof. On the other hand, spreading of the infection within a group of chickens housed in a single cage was not affected by air ionization. These and other results suggest that artificial air-ionization may protect animals from certain air-borne infections by interfering with microbial aerosol formation and/or by facilitating their decay.", "PMID": 458142} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13128", "title": "IgA antibody response in acute rubella determined by solid-phase radioimmunoassay.", "content": "A solid-phase radioimmunoassay (RIA) for detecting rubella virus IgA serum antibodies was developed. Purified rubella virus grown in roller cultures of Vero cells was adsorbed onto polystyrene beads. The coated beads were then incubated with dilutions of serum, and rubella IgA antibodies which attached to the virus antigen on the solid-phase were subsequently detected with 125I-labelled anti-human-alpha antibodies. The specificity of the iodinated anti-human immunoglobulins was confirmed by RIA analysis of fractions obtained by chromatography of an early convalescent serum on an agarose column. A complete separation of IgM, IgA, and IgG was observed. A total of 144 serial serum specimens from 31 adult patients with an acute rubella infection were tested for rubella IgA antibodies, and the results were compared with the RIA IgG and IgM titres reported earlier from the same specimens. The RIA IgA response was detected in each of the 31 patients and the IgA antibodies appeared almost simultaneously with the IgG and IgM antibodies. The maximum titres, which were lower than the IgG and IgM titres, were reached in about 1 week after the onset of rash. In 6 patients out of 31 the IgA antibody response was transient and persisted approximately two months, while in the remaining 25 patients the IgA antibodies persisted throughout the study period of more than 5 months. The results obtained indicate that the presence of rubella IgA antibodies in serum is not an indication for a recent rubella infection.", "contents": "IgA antibody response in acute rubella determined by solid-phase radioimmunoassay. A solid-phase radioimmunoassay (RIA) for detecting rubella virus IgA serum antibodies was developed. Purified rubella virus grown in roller cultures of Vero cells was adsorbed onto polystyrene beads. The coated beads were then incubated with dilutions of serum, and rubella IgA antibodies which attached to the virus antigen on the solid-phase were subsequently detected with 125I-labelled anti-human-alpha antibodies. The specificity of the iodinated anti-human immunoglobulins was confirmed by RIA analysis of fractions obtained by chromatography of an early convalescent serum on an agarose column. A complete separation of IgM, IgA, and IgG was observed. A total of 144 serial serum specimens from 31 adult patients with an acute rubella infection were tested for rubella IgA antibodies, and the results were compared with the RIA IgG and IgM titres reported earlier from the same specimens. The RIA IgA response was detected in each of the 31 patients and the IgA antibodies appeared almost simultaneously with the IgG and IgM antibodies. The maximum titres, which were lower than the IgG and IgM titres, were reached in about 1 week after the onset of rash. In 6 patients out of 31 the IgA antibody response was transient and persisted approximately two months, while in the remaining 25 patients the IgA antibodies persisted throughout the study period of more than 5 months. The results obtained indicate that the presence of rubella IgA antibodies in serum is not an indication for a recent rubella infection.", "PMID": 458143} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13129", "title": "Estimating the duration of latency and survival time of snails with schistosomiasis.", "content": "By means of techniques of analyses of survival data developed for cancer trials it is possible to study aspects of the natural history of the infection of schistosomiasis on the intermediate host of transmission, the snail. The simultaneous study of three response variables is largely based on a model of Lagakos (1976). When using this approach in the schistosomiasis setting it seems inappropriate to assume that one process, the duration of latency, follows an exponential distribution. Thus this stage is modified to follow a normal distribution and the derivatives required to obtain maximum-likelihood estimates and approximate variances of all parameters are provided. Simple graphical tools for assessing the validity of distributional assumptions in survival data are available from industrial research. The reader's attention is drawn to a paper by Nelson (1972). The relevance and application of these methods to the current problem are described in Section 4. In the event that the times to death of prepatent and patent snails do not follow exponential distributions as assumed in the primary model, a further modification is introduced to enable either or both to follow Weibull densities. Lastly it is possible to adapt both the primary model of Section Three and the modified model of Section Five to allow for the inclusion of auxiliary variables or covariates. Again the required derivatives to obtain maximum likelihood estimates and approximate variances are provided.", "contents": "Estimating the duration of latency and survival time of snails with schistosomiasis. By means of techniques of analyses of survival data developed for cancer trials it is possible to study aspects of the natural history of the infection of schistosomiasis on the intermediate host of transmission, the snail. The simultaneous study of three response variables is largely based on a model of Lagakos (1976). When using this approach in the schistosomiasis setting it seems inappropriate to assume that one process, the duration of latency, follows an exponential distribution. Thus this stage is modified to follow a normal distribution and the derivatives required to obtain maximum-likelihood estimates and approximate variances of all parameters are provided. Simple graphical tools for assessing the validity of distributional assumptions in survival data are available from industrial research. The reader's attention is drawn to a paper by Nelson (1972). The relevance and application of these methods to the current problem are described in Section 4. In the event that the times to death of prepatent and patent snails do not follow exponential distributions as assumed in the primary model, a further modification is introduced to enable either or both to follow Weibull densities. Lastly it is possible to adapt both the primary model of Section Three and the modified model of Section Five to allow for the inclusion of auxiliary variables or covariates. Again the required derivatives to obtain maximum likelihood estimates and approximate variances are provided.", "PMID": 458144} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13130", "title": "The alternative pathway C3/C5 convertase: chemical basis of factor B activation.", "content": "The structural basis of activation of the alternative pathway C3 convertase was explored. For this purpose a modified isolation procedure of the activating enzyme, Factor D, was elaborated. The procedure affords a 70,000-fold purification of the enzyme with a 20% yield. A simple assay was designed for the quantitation of both Factor D and Factor B activity. On the basis of activity measurements and amino acid analysis, Factor D concentration in plasma was estimated to be 1 microgram/ml. Highly purified Factor D was used to activate Factor B in the presence of C3b and Mg++. The resulting fragments, Ba and Bb, were characterized with respect to their circular dichroism spectra, amino acid compositions, reactive sulfhydryl groups, and partial amino- and carboxy-terminal sequences. The results indicate that the Ba fragment constitutes the amino-terminal region and the Bb fragment the carboxy-terminal region of Factor B. The bond in Factor B that is cleaved by Factor D is proposed to be an arginyl-lysine bond.", "contents": "The alternative pathway C3/C5 convertase: chemical basis of factor B activation. The structural basis of activation of the alternative pathway C3 convertase was explored. For this purpose a modified isolation procedure of the activating enzyme, Factor D, was elaborated. The procedure affords a 70,000-fold purification of the enzyme with a 20% yield. A simple assay was designed for the quantitation of both Factor D and Factor B activity. On the basis of activity measurements and amino acid analysis, Factor D concentration in plasma was estimated to be 1 microgram/ml. Highly purified Factor D was used to activate Factor B in the presence of C3b and Mg++. The resulting fragments, Ba and Bb, were characterized with respect to their circular dichroism spectra, amino acid compositions, reactive sulfhydryl groups, and partial amino- and carboxy-terminal sequences. The results indicate that the Ba fragment constitutes the amino-terminal region and the Bb fragment the carboxy-terminal region of Factor B. The bond in Factor B that is cleaved by Factor D is proposed to be an arginyl-lysine bond.", "PMID": 458145} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13131", "title": "Latent lymphokines: isolation of guinea pig latent lymphocyte-derived chemotactic factor for monocytes. Its activation by trypsin and a soluble factor from macrophages.", "content": "Guinea pig lymphocytes when depleted of macrophages and stimulated by the T cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin produce a latent form of lymphocyte-derived chemotactic factor for monocytes (LDCF-M). Latent LDCF-M is also produced when immune lymphocytes are stimulated in vitro with specific antigen, horseradish peroxidase. Latent LDCF-M from both sources can be activated and converted to \"classical\" LDCF-M by trypsin and by a soluble factor obtained from sonicated macrophages. These observations suggest that macrophages may modulate lymphokine activities in vivo by releasing soluble factors that convert inactive latent lymphokines to biologically active substances.", "contents": "Latent lymphokines: isolation of guinea pig latent lymphocyte-derived chemotactic factor for monocytes. Its activation by trypsin and a soluble factor from macrophages. Guinea pig lymphocytes when depleted of macrophages and stimulated by the T cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin produce a latent form of lymphocyte-derived chemotactic factor for monocytes (LDCF-M). Latent LDCF-M is also produced when immune lymphocytes are stimulated in vitro with specific antigen, horseradish peroxidase. Latent LDCF-M from both sources can be activated and converted to \"classical\" LDCF-M by trypsin and by a soluble factor obtained from sonicated macrophages. These observations suggest that macrophages may modulate lymphokine activities in vivo by releasing soluble factors that convert inactive latent lymphokines to biologically active substances.", "PMID": 458146} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13132", "title": "The regulation of thymidine secretion by macrophages.", "content": "The secretion of thymidine by mononuclear phagocytes was correlated with the activity of the enzyme thymidine kinase (TK). Macrophages cultured in regular tissue culture medium released thymidine and did not express TK. However, when macrophages were incubated with medium conditioned by L cells, they expressed TK, incorporated 3H thymidine into trichloroacetic acid precipitable material, and ceased to secrete the nucleotide. Furthermore, replicating P388/D1 cells were induced to secrete thymidine by inhibiting TK with d-glucosamine. These results have demonstrated an inverse relationship between thymidine secretion and the expression of TK. They suggest that thymidine secretion by macrophages may be attributed to their lack of TK activity.", "contents": "The regulation of thymidine secretion by macrophages. The secretion of thymidine by mononuclear phagocytes was correlated with the activity of the enzyme thymidine kinase (TK). Macrophages cultured in regular tissue culture medium released thymidine and did not express TK. However, when macrophages were incubated with medium conditioned by L cells, they expressed TK, incorporated 3H thymidine into trichloroacetic acid precipitable material, and ceased to secrete the nucleotide. Furthermore, replicating P388/D1 cells were induced to secrete thymidine by inhibiting TK with d-glucosamine. These results have demonstrated an inverse relationship between thymidine secretion and the expression of TK. They suggest that thymidine secretion by macrophages may be attributed to their lack of TK activity.", "PMID": 458147} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13133", "title": "Mononuclear cells contain human transfer factor as assayed locally on the skin of dogs.", "content": "We prepared transfer factor from mononuclear (M) cells and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells by sieving cell lysates through a P-2 Biogel column. By assaying column fractions by their ability to induce a local delayed-type reaction to antigen in canine skin, we determined that mononuclear cells most consistently contained skin activity. The elution patterns from P-2 Biogel of PMN or M-enriched preparations were less complex and much different from that seen with whole leukocytes.", "contents": "Mononuclear cells contain human transfer factor as assayed locally on the skin of dogs. We prepared transfer factor from mononuclear (M) cells and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells by sieving cell lysates through a P-2 Biogel column. By assaying column fractions by their ability to induce a local delayed-type reaction to antigen in canine skin, we determined that mononuclear cells most consistently contained skin activity. The elution patterns from P-2 Biogel of PMN or M-enriched preparations were less complex and much different from that seen with whole leukocytes.", "PMID": 458148} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13134", "title": "Selective localization of radiolabeled immune lymphocytes into syngeneic tumors.", "content": "Newly formed long-lived small lymphocytes (LLSL) generated during the immunization of mice to tumor specific transplantation antigens (TSTA) of syngeneic MCA-induced sarcomas were labeled. We then studied the localization of these labeled cells into tumor implants. \"Crisis-cross\" experiments were performed in which MCA sarcomas with individually distinct TSTA were studied in parallel. A selective localization of LLSL into tumors to which the lymphocytes were immune was found when small tumor pieces were implanted into immune mice whose LLSL had been labeled. Selective localization was also detected upon adoptive transfer of immune LLSL to tumor-bearing mice, but only when these mice had, before transfer, received a sublethal dose of whole body irradiation.", "contents": "Selective localization of radiolabeled immune lymphocytes into syngeneic tumors. Newly formed long-lived small lymphocytes (LLSL) generated during the immunization of mice to tumor specific transplantation antigens (TSTA) of syngeneic MCA-induced sarcomas were labeled. We then studied the localization of these labeled cells into tumor implants. \"Crisis-cross\" experiments were performed in which MCA sarcomas with individually distinct TSTA were studied in parallel. A selective localization of LLSL into tumors to which the lymphocytes were immune was found when small tumor pieces were implanted into immune mice whose LLSL had been labeled. Selective localization was also detected upon adoptive transfer of immune LLSL to tumor-bearing mice, but only when these mice had, before transfer, received a sublethal dose of whole body irradiation.", "PMID": 458150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13135", "title": "Chemical cross-linking of Ia alloantigen alpha and beta chains with dimethyl 3,3'-dithiobispropionimidate.", "content": "We have examined the polypeptide chain composition of membrane-bound and detergent-solubilized Ia antigens using the chemical cross-linking reagent dimethyl 3,3'-dithiobispropionimidate (DTBP). Products of the I-E/C subregion of the major histocompatibility complex, which were solubilized from spleen cells with the detergent NP-40 and partially purified by affinity chromatography on lentil lectin-agarose, could be almost completely cross-linked by DTBP. Thus, the characteristic 33,000 m.v. (alpha) and 28,000 (beta) polypeptide chains seen on sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gels disappeared and a major new species of 60,000 m.w. appeared after cross-linking. When isolated and reduced with 2-mercaptoethanol, the 60,000 m.w. peak was found to be comprised to alpha and beta chains. Similar results were obtained when I-E/C, as well as I-A, alpha and beta chains were crosslinked on the cell surface. These data demonstrate that the alpha and beta chains of the Ia antigens exist primarily in the form of a dimer both in detergent solution and in situ.", "contents": "Chemical cross-linking of Ia alloantigen alpha and beta chains with dimethyl 3,3'-dithiobispropionimidate. We have examined the polypeptide chain composition of membrane-bound and detergent-solubilized Ia antigens using the chemical cross-linking reagent dimethyl 3,3'-dithiobispropionimidate (DTBP). Products of the I-E/C subregion of the major histocompatibility complex, which were solubilized from spleen cells with the detergent NP-40 and partially purified by affinity chromatography on lentil lectin-agarose, could be almost completely cross-linked by DTBP. Thus, the characteristic 33,000 m.v. (alpha) and 28,000 (beta) polypeptide chains seen on sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gels disappeared and a major new species of 60,000 m.w. appeared after cross-linking. When isolated and reduced with 2-mercaptoethanol, the 60,000 m.w. peak was found to be comprised to alpha and beta chains. Similar results were obtained when I-E/C, as well as I-A, alpha and beta chains were crosslinked on the cell surface. These data demonstrate that the alpha and beta chains of the Ia antigens exist primarily in the form of a dimer both in detergent solution and in situ.", "PMID": 458156} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13136", "title": "Immune response in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis: reduced antibody response to the matrix protein of measles virus.", "content": "Immune precipitation was used to study the humoral immune response of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). Patients with SSPE have a progressive infection of the CNS by measles or a measles variant despite high serum antibody levels to measles virus as measured by standard serologic techniques. However, when the antibody response to individual measles virus proteins was measured, we found a striking reduction in the ability of sera from patients with SSPE to precipitate the matrix (M) protein as compared to the precipitation of the M protein by sera from normal adults who had natural measles infection in childhood, or by convalescent sera obtained 3 to 5 weeks after a naturally occurring measles infection. The decreased antibody response to the M protein in sera from patients with SSPE occurred despite a vigorous antibody response to the other viral proteins, suggesting a selective defect in the production of antibody to a single viral protein. The reduced anti-M antibody in sera from patients with SSPE was demonstrated whether immune precipitation was performed with wild-type measles virus or SSPE virus proteins. These results suggest that in SSPE only small amounts of the M protein are produced. This result may help explain how measles virus persists in the central nervous system of patients with SSPE.", "contents": "Immune response in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis: reduced antibody response to the matrix protein of measles virus. Immune precipitation was used to study the humoral immune response of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). Patients with SSPE have a progressive infection of the CNS by measles or a measles variant despite high serum antibody levels to measles virus as measured by standard serologic techniques. However, when the antibody response to individual measles virus proteins was measured, we found a striking reduction in the ability of sera from patients with SSPE to precipitate the matrix (M) protein as compared to the precipitation of the M protein by sera from normal adults who had natural measles infection in childhood, or by convalescent sera obtained 3 to 5 weeks after a naturally occurring measles infection. The decreased antibody response to the M protein in sera from patients with SSPE occurred despite a vigorous antibody response to the other viral proteins, suggesting a selective defect in the production of antibody to a single viral protein. The reduced anti-M antibody in sera from patients with SSPE was demonstrated whether immune precipitation was performed with wild-type measles virus or SSPE virus proteins. These results suggest that in SSPE only small amounts of the M protein are produced. This result may help explain how measles virus persists in the central nervous system of patients with SSPE.", "PMID": 458157} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13137", "title": "Genetic mapping of the locus controlling structural variations of murine C3 in the chromosome 17.", "content": "Backcross progeny, (NC X TF/GnLe)F1 X TF/GnLe, was tested for C3 allotype controlled by C3-1 and the expression of mutant gene tf, repeated loss and regrowth of hair. The recombination frequency between these two loci both located in chromosome 17 of the mouse was 24%. Taken together with our previous linkage data, C3-1 is now localized to a position 11 cm more distal than H-2 on chromosome 17.", "contents": "Genetic mapping of the locus controlling structural variations of murine C3 in the chromosome 17. Backcross progeny, (NC X TF/GnLe)F1 X TF/GnLe, was tested for C3 allotype controlled by C3-1 and the expression of mutant gene tf, repeated loss and regrowth of hair. The recombination frequency between these two loci both located in chromosome 17 of the mouse was 24%. Taken together with our previous linkage data, C3-1 is now localized to a position 11 cm more distal than H-2 on chromosome 17.", "PMID": 458159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13138", "title": "Preparation of an antibody to mouse serum IgD.", "content": "Mice have recently been shown to have serum IgD. We have used affinity chromatography to partially purify mouse serum IgD, and have prepared a rabbit antiserum against this mouse Ig class. This antiserum, once adsorbed by IgD-depleted mouse serum bound to Sepharose, was isotype specific as determined by radioimmunoassay and fluorescence activated cell sorter analysis, and bound to the same splenic lymphocyte surface molecules as a hybridoma produced monoclonal anti-mouse delta antibody.", "contents": "Preparation of an antibody to mouse serum IgD. Mice have recently been shown to have serum IgD. We have used affinity chromatography to partially purify mouse serum IgD, and have prepared a rabbit antiserum against this mouse Ig class. This antiserum, once adsorbed by IgD-depleted mouse serum bound to Sepharose, was isotype specific as determined by radioimmunoassay and fluorescence activated cell sorter analysis, and bound to the same splenic lymphocyte surface molecules as a hybridoma produced monoclonal anti-mouse delta antibody.", "PMID": 458161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13139", "title": "Studies on human lymphocytes in frozen tissue section: viability and spontaneous rosette formation with sheep erythrocytes.", "content": "Sixty to 70% viability of lymphocytes in frozen tissue section was obtained by using dimethylsulphoxide-containing medium as a cryoprotective agent and by conditioning time and temperature for freezing, making sections on a cryostat and thawing. The aviable and dead cells were differentiated by trypan blue exclusion test on section. Lymphocytes in tissue sections showed spontaneous rosette formation with sheep erythrocytes (E rosette) with specific localization for each lymphoid organ.", "contents": "Studies on human lymphocytes in frozen tissue section: viability and spontaneous rosette formation with sheep erythrocytes. Sixty to 70% viability of lymphocytes in frozen tissue section was obtained by using dimethylsulphoxide-containing medium as a cryoprotective agent and by conditioning time and temperature for freezing, making sections on a cryostat and thawing. The aviable and dead cells were differentiated by trypan blue exclusion test on section. Lymphocytes in tissue sections showed spontaneous rosette formation with sheep erythrocytes (E rosette) with specific localization for each lymphoid organ.", "PMID": 458162} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13140", "title": "Immunofixation on cellulose acetate: an improved screening method for monoclonal immunoglobulins.", "content": "A rapid, simple and economical method is described for typing monoclonal immunoglobulins. It is a modification of the immunofixation electrophoresis method and cellulose acetate has been used as a supporing medium. It involves an initial electrophoretic separation followed by an antigen (Ag)-antibody (Ab) reaction 'in situ'. Eight samples can be typed on each 5.7 cm x 10.5 cm strip and only 20 microliter of commercial antiserum are required (about 2.5 microliter per sample). The method permits detection of monoclonal proteins at concentrations as low as 100 ng/microliter in only 60 min.", "contents": "Immunofixation on cellulose acetate: an improved screening method for monoclonal immunoglobulins. A rapid, simple and economical method is described for typing monoclonal immunoglobulins. It is a modification of the immunofixation electrophoresis method and cellulose acetate has been used as a supporing medium. It involves an initial electrophoretic separation followed by an antigen (Ag)-antibody (Ab) reaction 'in situ'. Eight samples can be typed on each 5.7 cm x 10.5 cm strip and only 20 microliter of commercial antiserum are required (about 2.5 microliter per sample). The method permits detection of monoclonal proteins at concentrations as low as 100 ng/microliter in only 60 min.", "PMID": 458163} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13141", "title": "Solid-phase radioimmunoassay for the detection of antibodies to collagen.", "content": "A solid-phase radioimmunoassay has been developed using polystyrene tubes for the detection of class-specific antibodies to collagen. The optimal conditions for the adsorption of collagen onto the tubes, followed by incubation with the antisera and finally the radiolabelled antibody to the class-specific antibody are described. Studies carried out on antisera raised in rats and rabbits using this assay confirm its sensitivity and applicability.", "contents": "Solid-phase radioimmunoassay for the detection of antibodies to collagen. A solid-phase radioimmunoassay has been developed using polystyrene tubes for the detection of class-specific antibodies to collagen. The optimal conditions for the adsorption of collagen onto the tubes, followed by incubation with the antisera and finally the radiolabelled antibody to the class-specific antibody are described. Studies carried out on antisera raised in rats and rabbits using this assay confirm its sensitivity and applicability.", "PMID": 458164} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13142", "title": "Determination of avidity of anti-viral antibodies at 50% binding of antibody.", "content": "Binding studies with tobacco mosaic virus and specific IgG and Fab' fragments were done under conditions of 50% binding of antibody. When the log of the concentration of antigen sites required to bind 50% of the available antibody was plotted against the log of bound sites, a line was obtained which had a slope varying between 0 and 1. Instead of using the slope of this line as an index of avidity of the antiserum, it is suggested that the calculation K0 values over a range of reactant concentrations provides a better criterion for comparing the avidity of antiviral antibodies. The results of conventional binding tests were analyzed by means of Scatchard plots and were found to agree very closely with the data obtained at 50% binding of antibody.", "contents": "Determination of avidity of anti-viral antibodies at 50% binding of antibody. Binding studies with tobacco mosaic virus and specific IgG and Fab' fragments were done under conditions of 50% binding of antibody. When the log of the concentration of antigen sites required to bind 50% of the available antibody was plotted against the log of bound sites, a line was obtained which had a slope varying between 0 and 1. Instead of using the slope of this line as an index of avidity of the antiserum, it is suggested that the calculation K0 values over a range of reactant concentrations provides a better criterion for comparing the avidity of antiviral antibodies. The results of conventional binding tests were analyzed by means of Scatchard plots and were found to agree very closely with the data obtained at 50% binding of antibody.", "PMID": 458165} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13143", "title": "Fluorescent labelling of proteins of lymphocyte plasma membranes.", "content": "Fluorescamine has been used for labelling proteins present on the surface of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Under the conditions of study, 12 labelled proteins could be detected by SDS gel electrophoresis. This method may be of value in biochemical studies of lymphocyte membranes.", "contents": "Fluorescent labelling of proteins of lymphocyte plasma membranes. Fluorescamine has been used for labelling proteins present on the surface of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Under the conditions of study, 12 labelled proteins could be detected by SDS gel electrophoresis. This method may be of value in biochemical studies of lymphocyte membranes.", "PMID": 458166} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13144", "title": "A micro macrophage migration inhibition test for the detection of cellular immunity in vitro.", "content": "A simple, economical, macrophage migration inhibition assay enabling multiple tests to be performed using microculture plates has been developed. The system confers many advantages over the standard in vitro assay of macrophage migration inhibition factor. It requires only 5 X 10(5) macrophages for each assay, small volumes (100 microliter) of test factors are consumed, 96 tests in each culture plate are easily assessed microscopically and the technique is easily and reproducibly executed. An adherent monolayer of activated fresh mouse peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) is established in each microculture well. A 'starting line' is scored across the monolayer by the application of a trimmed razor blade and the cells are dislodged and aspirated from one side of the line. Test factors from cultures of stimulated lymphocytes were added to the 'wounded' monolayer and the migration of macrophages from test and control cultures was measured after staining. The cells across the line were counted after incubation. Miration was shown to be time and temperature dependent, markedly stimulated by colchicine and appeared to associate with tuberculin antigen (PPD) skin testing and lymphocyte transformation in human subjects.", "contents": "A micro macrophage migration inhibition test for the detection of cellular immunity in vitro. A simple, economical, macrophage migration inhibition assay enabling multiple tests to be performed using microculture plates has been developed. The system confers many advantages over the standard in vitro assay of macrophage migration inhibition factor. It requires only 5 X 10(5) macrophages for each assay, small volumes (100 microliter) of test factors are consumed, 96 tests in each culture plate are easily assessed microscopically and the technique is easily and reproducibly executed. An adherent monolayer of activated fresh mouse peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) is established in each microculture well. A 'starting line' is scored across the monolayer by the application of a trimmed razor blade and the cells are dislodged and aspirated from one side of the line. Test factors from cultures of stimulated lymphocytes were added to the 'wounded' monolayer and the migration of macrophages from test and control cultures was measured after staining. The cells across the line were counted after incubation. Miration was shown to be time and temperature dependent, markedly stimulated by colchicine and appeared to associate with tuberculin antigen (PPD) skin testing and lymphocyte transformation in human subjects.", "PMID": 458167} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13145", "title": "High volume antisera yields from rabbits using plasmapheresis.", "content": "A simple procedure for plasmapheresis of rabbits is described, permitting collection of approximately 75 ml of antisera to be obtained at weekly intervals. Evidence for maintenance of antibody titer throughout this interval is presented.", "contents": "High volume antisera yields from rabbits using plasmapheresis. A simple procedure for plasmapheresis of rabbits is described, permitting collection of approximately 75 ml of antisera to be obtained at weekly intervals. Evidence for maintenance of antibody titer throughout this interval is presented.", "PMID": 458168} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13146", "title": "Isolation and characterization of hepatocytes and Kupffer cells.", "content": "Simplified isolation procedures are described for the parenchymal cell of the liver and the major non-parenchymal cell, the Kupffer cell. Hepatocytes are obtained in a purity of approximately 100%; a yield 10 X 10(6) cells/g liver tissue and the viability is greater than 85%. The recovery of Kupffer cells is 82%, viability 87% and purity 67%. Characterization of Kupffer cells is by the peroxidatic reaction, of hepatocytes by gluconeogenesis and also culture on collagen plates in a non-protein medium yielding albumin.", "contents": "Isolation and characterization of hepatocytes and Kupffer cells. Simplified isolation procedures are described for the parenchymal cell of the liver and the major non-parenchymal cell, the Kupffer cell. Hepatocytes are obtained in a purity of approximately 100%; a yield 10 X 10(6) cells/g liver tissue and the viability is greater than 85%. The recovery of Kupffer cells is 82%, viability 87% and purity 67%. Characterization of Kupffer cells is by the peroxidatic reaction, of hepatocytes by gluconeogenesis and also culture on collagen plates in a non-protein medium yielding albumin.", "PMID": 458170} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13147", "title": "Relationship between actinic damage and chronologic aging in keratinocyte cultures of human skin.", "content": "The relationship of actinically-induced \"premature aging\" to chronological aging was studied in paired keratinocyte cultures obtained from the habitually sun-exposed (lateral) and nonexposed (medial) aspects of the arm of 5 male donors, aged 41 to 80 yr. In all cases, the number of cell generations in vitro was greater for cultures derived from sun-exposed skin, and this discrepancy increased with donor age and the severity of clinical aging changes. Hence, chronic sun exposure does accelerate aging in human skin by at least one previously established in vitro criterion: it decreased the lifespan of cultured keratinocytes. Plating efficiency was 11- to 32-fold higher for keratinocytes from chronically sun-exposed skin than nonexposed controls, perhaps reflecting the recognized carcinogenic potential of actinic radiation. Keratinocyte cultures appear to be as amenable to gerontologic studies as the already widely used human fibroblast cultures.", "contents": "Relationship between actinic damage and chronologic aging in keratinocyte cultures of human skin. The relationship of actinically-induced \"premature aging\" to chronological aging was studied in paired keratinocyte cultures obtained from the habitually sun-exposed (lateral) and nonexposed (medial) aspects of the arm of 5 male donors, aged 41 to 80 yr. In all cases, the number of cell generations in vitro was greater for cultures derived from sun-exposed skin, and this discrepancy increased with donor age and the severity of clinical aging changes. Hence, chronic sun exposure does accelerate aging in human skin by at least one previously established in vitro criterion: it decreased the lifespan of cultured keratinocytes. Plating efficiency was 11- to 32-fold higher for keratinocytes from chronically sun-exposed skin than nonexposed controls, perhaps reflecting the recognized carcinogenic potential of actinic radiation. Keratinocyte cultures appear to be as amenable to gerontologic studies as the already widely used human fibroblast cultures.", "PMID": 458182} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13148", "title": "Histologic study of the regeneration of axillary hair after removal with subcutaneous tissue shaver.", "content": "It was observed that after subcutaneous tissue shaving for the radical therapy of hircismus and hyperhidrosis axillary hair often regrew. Histologic study of this phenomenon showed that hair bulb and most of the follicle up to a level near the sebaceous duct opening had been removed. Hair regrows from remnant outer root sheath, but only when sebaceous glands are preserved, that is when the upper portion of the follicular isthmus is intact. One or several solid epithelial pegs grow downward from the cut end of the trichilemma, and inner root sheath and new young hair are formed in its center. In hair peg stage, the lower tip of the hair follicle descends while new hair is growing in its center through the mitotic activity is growing in its center through the mitotic activity of hair germ cells and is prevented from pushing toward the skin surface by interlocking fusion between hair cuticula and sheath cuticula. Eventually, the epithelial cells wrap around a mass of mesenchymal cells and form a new bulb from which the terminal hair grows upward. The new matrix acquires a new complement of functioning melanocytes.", "contents": "Histologic study of the regeneration of axillary hair after removal with subcutaneous tissue shaver. It was observed that after subcutaneous tissue shaving for the radical therapy of hircismus and hyperhidrosis axillary hair often regrew. Histologic study of this phenomenon showed that hair bulb and most of the follicle up to a level near the sebaceous duct opening had been removed. Hair regrows from remnant outer root sheath, but only when sebaceous glands are preserved, that is when the upper portion of the follicular isthmus is intact. One or several solid epithelial pegs grow downward from the cut end of the trichilemma, and inner root sheath and new young hair are formed in its center. In hair peg stage, the lower tip of the hair follicle descends while new hair is growing in its center through the mitotic activity is growing in its center through the mitotic activity of hair germ cells and is prevented from pushing toward the skin surface by interlocking fusion between hair cuticula and sheath cuticula. Eventually, the epithelial cells wrap around a mass of mesenchymal cells and form a new bulb from which the terminal hair grows upward. The new matrix acquires a new complement of functioning melanocytes.", "PMID": 458183} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13149", "title": "Distensibiltiy of the papaverine-induced passive vascular bed in dermis of generalized scleroderma.", "content": "Passive distensibility of of the vascular bed in cutaneous tissue of the hand was examined in 7 normal persons and 15 patients suffering from generalized scleroderma of the acrosclerosis type. Paralysis of vascular smooth muscle cells was obtained by locally injected papaverine. Increase in vascular transmural pressure was induced by lowering the limb. Blood flow was estimated by the local Xenon wash-out technique. There was no significant difference between the patients and the normals in relative blood flow during lowering, when injection volumes of 0.005 and 0.02 ml were used, indicating that distensibility of the vascular bed in cutaneous tissue in generalized scleroderma is not diminished. However, in generalized scleroderma an injection volume of 0.1 ml caused a significant decrease in relative blood flow during lowering. This phenomenon observed in the patients probably reflects changes in total tissue pressure opposing distension of the vascular bed. This suggests an altered pressure-volume relationship of the interstitial fluid spaces in cutaneous tissue of generalized scleroderma.", "contents": "Distensibiltiy of the papaverine-induced passive vascular bed in dermis of generalized scleroderma. Passive distensibility of of the vascular bed in cutaneous tissue of the hand was examined in 7 normal persons and 15 patients suffering from generalized scleroderma of the acrosclerosis type. Paralysis of vascular smooth muscle cells was obtained by locally injected papaverine. Increase in vascular transmural pressure was induced by lowering the limb. Blood flow was estimated by the local Xenon wash-out technique. There was no significant difference between the patients and the normals in relative blood flow during lowering, when injection volumes of 0.005 and 0.02 ml were used, indicating that distensibility of the vascular bed in cutaneous tissue in generalized scleroderma is not diminished. However, in generalized scleroderma an injection volume of 0.1 ml caused a significant decrease in relative blood flow during lowering. This phenomenon observed in the patients probably reflects changes in total tissue pressure opposing distension of the vascular bed. This suggests an altered pressure-volume relationship of the interstitial fluid spaces in cutaneous tissue of generalized scleroderma.", "PMID": 458184} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13150", "title": "Local regulation of digital blood flow in generalized scleroderma.", "content": "A decreasing activity of the vascular bed upon changes in vascular transmural pressure and changes in arterial perfusion pressure head was observed from hand to fingers and from subcutis to cutis in patients suffering from generalized scleroderma. These findings are expressions of deteriorating vascular smooth muscle function. The reactive hyperemia response was decreased in subcutaneous as well as cutaneous tissue in patients fingers and in 4 of 7 patients the response was absent from the finger tip. The reactive hyperemia response of the patients resembled responses obtained in normal fingers during decrease in local perfusion blood pressure, during local cooling or after infiltration of norepinephrine around the digital arteries. This implied an increased digital artery resistance in generalizing scleroderma. A positive feed back loop between cooling, increase in digital artery resistance, increase in blood viscosity and a passive vascular bed is proposed as an important factor in Raynaud's phenomenon.", "contents": "Local regulation of digital blood flow in generalized scleroderma. A decreasing activity of the vascular bed upon changes in vascular transmural pressure and changes in arterial perfusion pressure head was observed from hand to fingers and from subcutis to cutis in patients suffering from generalized scleroderma. These findings are expressions of deteriorating vascular smooth muscle function. The reactive hyperemia response was decreased in subcutaneous as well as cutaneous tissue in patients fingers and in 4 of 7 patients the response was absent from the finger tip. The reactive hyperemia response of the patients resembled responses obtained in normal fingers during decrease in local perfusion blood pressure, during local cooling or after infiltration of norepinephrine around the digital arteries. This implied an increased digital artery resistance in generalizing scleroderma. A positive feed back loop between cooling, increase in digital artery resistance, increase in blood viscosity and a passive vascular bed is proposed as an important factor in Raynaud's phenomenon.", "PMID": 458185} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13151", "title": "The acute effects of long-wave ultraviolet radiation on human skin.", "content": "The erythematogenic and melanogenic properties of polychromatic long-wave ultraviolet light (UV-A) has been re-examined. Redness appeared immediately after exposure and persisted for 24 hr with doses of about 50 Joules/cm2. With threshold erythemal doses, about 13 J/cm2, the redness faded after a few minutes. The response was not biphasic. Pigmentation also appeared immediately after exposure and faded rapidly with threshold doses of 4 J/cm2. With larger doses (18 J/cm2) immediate pigmentation gave way without fading to delayed pigmentation (true melanogenesis). Thus, the acute effects of UV-A, unlike other wavelengths within the UV-spectrum, are immediate and appear without latency. The responses are also most intense immediately after exposure.", "contents": "The acute effects of long-wave ultraviolet radiation on human skin. The erythematogenic and melanogenic properties of polychromatic long-wave ultraviolet light (UV-A) has been re-examined. Redness appeared immediately after exposure and persisted for 24 hr with doses of about 50 Joules/cm2. With threshold erythemal doses, about 13 J/cm2, the redness faded after a few minutes. The response was not biphasic. Pigmentation also appeared immediately after exposure and faded rapidly with threshold doses of 4 J/cm2. With larger doses (18 J/cm2) immediate pigmentation gave way without fading to delayed pigmentation (true melanogenesis). Thus, the acute effects of UV-A, unlike other wavelengths within the UV-spectrum, are immediate and appear without latency. The responses are also most intense immediately after exposure.", "PMID": 458186} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13152", "title": "Carcinoembryonic antigen: increased plasma levels in recessive epidermolysis bullosa.", "content": "Circulating plasma levels of the oncofetal antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, were examined in 18 patients with various forms of epidermolysis bullosa. Carcinoembryonic antigen was markedly elevated in the plasma of 4 of 6 patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and in 1 of 2 patients with recessive epidermolysis bullosa letalis. In contrast, patients with dominantly inherited forms of the disease, dominant epidermolysis bullosa simplex and dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, had normal levels of antigen. In the recessive patients, the plasma levels of carcinoembryonic antigen appeared to correlate with the severity of cutaneous involvement. Alternatively, it is possible that expression of carcinoembryonic antigen is genetically linked to certain forms of recessive epidermolysis bullosa or is part of a pleiotropic effect of the gene coding for the disease.", "contents": "Carcinoembryonic antigen: increased plasma levels in recessive epidermolysis bullosa. Circulating plasma levels of the oncofetal antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, were examined in 18 patients with various forms of epidermolysis bullosa. Carcinoembryonic antigen was markedly elevated in the plasma of 4 of 6 patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and in 1 of 2 patients with recessive epidermolysis bullosa letalis. In contrast, patients with dominantly inherited forms of the disease, dominant epidermolysis bullosa simplex and dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, had normal levels of antigen. In the recessive patients, the plasma levels of carcinoembryonic antigen appeared to correlate with the severity of cutaneous involvement. Alternatively, it is possible that expression of carcinoembryonic antigen is genetically linked to certain forms of recessive epidermolysis bullosa or is part of a pleiotropic effect of the gene coding for the disease.", "PMID": 458187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13153", "title": "Histometric analysis of human skin in organ culture.", "content": "A histometric method is used for the study of human skin kept in organ culture in a defined medium for up to 10 days. The method provides quantitative, reproducible data on tissue survival, cell migration, and cellular differentiation (keratinization). With this method, the behavior of epidermal skin tissue can be effectively monitored during organ culture. As quantitative data are obtained, even subtle changes can be accurately demonstrated, and accumulated data may be subjected to statistical analysis. The various applications of this method are pointed out.", "contents": "Histometric analysis of human skin in organ culture. A histometric method is used for the study of human skin kept in organ culture in a defined medium for up to 10 days. The method provides quantitative, reproducible data on tissue survival, cell migration, and cellular differentiation (keratinization). With this method, the behavior of epidermal skin tissue can be effectively monitored during organ culture. As quantitative data are obtained, even subtle changes can be accurately demonstrated, and accumulated data may be subjected to statistical analysis. The various applications of this method are pointed out.", "PMID": 458188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13154", "title": "Assay of contact photosensitivity to musk ambrette in guinea pigs.", "content": "This study reports the induction of contact photodermatitis to musk ambrette, 2-methoxy-3,5-dinitro-4-methyl-t-butylbenzene, in guinea pigs. Photoallergic contact dermatitis was assayed using 2 alternative induction methods. Successful photosensitization was achieved only when the nuchal skin was stripped with scotch tape before application of musk ambrette and ultraviolet radiation. Induction methods utilizing nonstripped nuchal skin which induce photosensitivity to potent photoallergens were ineffective for musk ambrette. Phtotoxicity tests to musk ambrette at concentrations between 1 and 50% and a dose of 10.2 joules/cm2 from \"Black Light\" fluorescent tubes were all negative. Under identical irradiation conditions, anthracene at 0.9% and 8-methoxypsoralen at 1% were consistently positive. The mechanism of photosensitivity to musk ambrette appears to be photoallergic rather than phototoxic. The requirement for skin abrasion to induce photosensitization parallels the clinical reports of photosensitivity to musk ambrette in man.", "contents": "Assay of contact photosensitivity to musk ambrette in guinea pigs. This study reports the induction of contact photodermatitis to musk ambrette, 2-methoxy-3,5-dinitro-4-methyl-t-butylbenzene, in guinea pigs. Photoallergic contact dermatitis was assayed using 2 alternative induction methods. Successful photosensitization was achieved only when the nuchal skin was stripped with scotch tape before application of musk ambrette and ultraviolet radiation. Induction methods utilizing nonstripped nuchal skin which induce photosensitivity to potent photoallergens were ineffective for musk ambrette. Phtotoxicity tests to musk ambrette at concentrations between 1 and 50% and a dose of 10.2 joules/cm2 from \"Black Light\" fluorescent tubes were all negative. Under identical irradiation conditions, anthracene at 0.9% and 8-methoxypsoralen at 1% were consistently positive. The mechanism of photosensitivity to musk ambrette appears to be photoallergic rather than phototoxic. The requirement for skin abrasion to induce photosensitization parallels the clinical reports of photosensitivity to musk ambrette in man.", "PMID": 458189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13155", "title": "Histogenesis of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis: sequential change of epidermal keratinocytes to amyloid via filamentous degeneration.", "content": "Two cases of lichen amyloidosus and 8 cases of macular amyloidosis were examined by electron microscopy. Epidermal keratinocytes showed variable degrees of focal degeneration in the basal or lower Malpighian layer. The primary change was seen in cells which contain fibrillar (30 nm in thickness) cytoplasmic inclusion. The following developments seemed to lead to filamentous degeneration (colloid bodies): (1) aggregation of tonofilaments within the granular or fibrillar cytoplasm, (2) filamentous cells, which are composed of bundles of 7-nm thick filaments surrounded by cell membrane and desmosomes, and (3) filamentous masses composed of bundles or whorls of tightly packed 7-nm thick filaments in the intercellular spaces. At the dermo-epidermal junction, some of the filamentous masses were surrounded by the basal lamina of the epidermis and others were dropping into the dermis. Occasionally, loosened filaments (similar to amyloid filaments) were about to drop into the dermis. Early formation of amyloid islands consisted of electron-dense and electron-light parts. They were located directly beneath the epidermis. In the deeper postion of the papillary dermis and in the upper reticular dermis, the majority were electron-light masses. Electron dense parts were the densely packed 7-nm thick filaments, whereas electron-light parts were the typical straight amyloid filaments. Small tubular filaments were seen in common in the filamentous cells, filamentous masses, and amyloid islands. It is concluded that some of the amyloid substance in primary localized forms of cutaneous amyloidoses derive from the epidermal cells through filamentous degeneration.", "contents": "Histogenesis of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis: sequential change of epidermal keratinocytes to amyloid via filamentous degeneration. Two cases of lichen amyloidosus and 8 cases of macular amyloidosis were examined by electron microscopy. Epidermal keratinocytes showed variable degrees of focal degeneration in the basal or lower Malpighian layer. The primary change was seen in cells which contain fibrillar (30 nm in thickness) cytoplasmic inclusion. The following developments seemed to lead to filamentous degeneration (colloid bodies): (1) aggregation of tonofilaments within the granular or fibrillar cytoplasm, (2) filamentous cells, which are composed of bundles of 7-nm thick filaments surrounded by cell membrane and desmosomes, and (3) filamentous masses composed of bundles or whorls of tightly packed 7-nm thick filaments in the intercellular spaces. At the dermo-epidermal junction, some of the filamentous masses were surrounded by the basal lamina of the epidermis and others were dropping into the dermis. Occasionally, loosened filaments (similar to amyloid filaments) were about to drop into the dermis. Early formation of amyloid islands consisted of electron-dense and electron-light parts. They were located directly beneath the epidermis. In the deeper postion of the papillary dermis and in the upper reticular dermis, the majority were electron-light masses. Electron dense parts were the densely packed 7-nm thick filaments, whereas electron-light parts were the typical straight amyloid filaments. Small tubular filaments were seen in common in the filamentous cells, filamentous masses, and amyloid islands. It is concluded that some of the amyloid substance in primary localized forms of cutaneous amyloidoses derive from the epidermal cells through filamentous degeneration.", "PMID": 458190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13156", "title": "Photoinactivation of skin fibroblasts by fractionated treatment with 8-methoxypsoralen and UVA.", "content": "Guinea pig skin fibroblasts treated with low doses of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) and long-wave ultraviolet light (UVA) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of 3H-Thymidine incorporation as determined by liquid scintillation counting. The minimum incubation time necessary to obtain constant inhibition rates was 60 min. By washing the drug was removed from the reactive sites within 30 min. Repeated light exposure at a constant concentration of 8-MOP caused a cumulative inhibition of DNA synthesis. Irradiation of 8-MOP-plus-UVA treated cells, from which the drug was removed, produced a small increase in photoinhibition. Split dose treatment at various time intervals (ranging from 1--48 hr) revealed inhibitory rates, which correspond to the total amount of UVA applied. No recovery effects were seen in cultures treated by single or multiple applications of 8-MOP-plus-UVA.", "contents": "Photoinactivation of skin fibroblasts by fractionated treatment with 8-methoxypsoralen and UVA. Guinea pig skin fibroblasts treated with low doses of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) and long-wave ultraviolet light (UVA) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of 3H-Thymidine incorporation as determined by liquid scintillation counting. The minimum incubation time necessary to obtain constant inhibition rates was 60 min. By washing the drug was removed from the reactive sites within 30 min. Repeated light exposure at a constant concentration of 8-MOP caused a cumulative inhibition of DNA synthesis. Irradiation of 8-MOP-plus-UVA treated cells, from which the drug was removed, produced a small increase in photoinhibition. Split dose treatment at various time intervals (ranging from 1--48 hr) revealed inhibitory rates, which correspond to the total amount of UVA applied. No recovery effects were seen in cultures treated by single or multiple applications of 8-MOP-plus-UVA.", "PMID": 458191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13157", "title": "PUVA suppresses the proliferative stimulus produced by stripping on hairless mice.", "content": "Hairless mice were fed with 8-methoxypsoralen by gastric tube and exposed to UVA light to produce threshold phototoxic reactions. 3H-thymidine autoradiography revealed no significant difference of the epidermal labelling index as compared to that of nonirradiated animals (4.8 vs 6.2). Single PUVA exposures performed 2,8,14 and 24 hr after tape stripping lead to suppression of a wave of synchronized DNA synthesis present in nonirradiated control animals. These data demonstrate different reactions of stripped and unstripped epidermis to PUVA exposures and offer indirect evidence for the suppression of DNA synthesis in hyperproliferative skin disorders by PUVA in vivo.", "contents": "PUVA suppresses the proliferative stimulus produced by stripping on hairless mice. Hairless mice were fed with 8-methoxypsoralen by gastric tube and exposed to UVA light to produce threshold phototoxic reactions. 3H-thymidine autoradiography revealed no significant difference of the epidermal labelling index as compared to that of nonirradiated animals (4.8 vs 6.2). Single PUVA exposures performed 2,8,14 and 24 hr after tape stripping lead to suppression of a wave of synchronized DNA synthesis present in nonirradiated control animals. These data demonstrate different reactions of stripped and unstripped epidermis to PUVA exposures and offer indirect evidence for the suppression of DNA synthesis in hyperproliferative skin disorders by PUVA in vivo.", "PMID": 458192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13158", "title": "New studies on the interaction between 8-methoxypsoralen and DNA in vitro.", "content": "Some aspects of the interactions between DNA and 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) in its ground state (complex formation) or in its excited state (photobinding) have been investigated. 8-MOP shows a low affinity towards DNA in the complex formation; this fact minimizes the possible biological consequences deriving from this interaction, when it occurs in vivo. In covalent photobinding to DNA, 8-MOP forms mainly monofunctional adducts, and to a lesser extent bifunctional adducts, showing a behavior similar to that of other linearly condensed furocoumarins (psoralens); the ratio between mono- and bifunctional adducts was found to be 9:1. The covalent photobinding to DNA does not occur at random along the macromolecule, but preferentially at the level of specific receptor sites. The regions having an alternate sequence of A-T seem to be the best receptor sites for the formation of monoadducts while the regions containing an alternate sequence of A-T and C-G appeared to be the preferential sites for the cross-linkage formation.", "contents": "New studies on the interaction between 8-methoxypsoralen and DNA in vitro. Some aspects of the interactions between DNA and 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) in its ground state (complex formation) or in its excited state (photobinding) have been investigated. 8-MOP shows a low affinity towards DNA in the complex formation; this fact minimizes the possible biological consequences deriving from this interaction, when it occurs in vivo. In covalent photobinding to DNA, 8-MOP forms mainly monofunctional adducts, and to a lesser extent bifunctional adducts, showing a behavior similar to that of other linearly condensed furocoumarins (psoralens); the ratio between mono- and bifunctional adducts was found to be 9:1. The covalent photobinding to DNA does not occur at random along the macromolecule, but preferentially at the level of specific receptor sites. The regions having an alternate sequence of A-T seem to be the best receptor sites for the formation of monoadducts while the regions containing an alternate sequence of A-T and C-G appeared to be the preferential sites for the cross-linkage formation.", "PMID": 458193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13159", "title": "Pulmonary and systemic defenses against challenge with Staphylococcus aureus in mice with pneumonia due to influenza A virus.", "content": "Pulmonary and systemic defenses against hematogenous challenge with 32P-labeled Staphylococcus aureus were measured 10 min, 8 hr, and 24 hr after intravenous injection of the bacteria in a mouse model of influenza virus pneumonia. Infection with influenza A virus did not alter bactericidal defenses in the liver and spleen, but pulmonary bactericidal activity measured 24 hr after infection was suppressed in virus-infected animals; 20% +/- 3% of the initially injected, viable bacteria were recovered from lungs of pneumonitic mice after 24 hr as compared with 9% +/- 1% from lungs of the uninfected mice. These data demonstrate that pulmonary infection with influenza virus does not alter antibacterial defenses of the liver and spleen but does suppress bactericidal activity in the lung.", "contents": "Pulmonary and systemic defenses against challenge with Staphylococcus aureus in mice with pneumonia due to influenza A virus. Pulmonary and systemic defenses against hematogenous challenge with 32P-labeled Staphylococcus aureus were measured 10 min, 8 hr, and 24 hr after intravenous injection of the bacteria in a mouse model of influenza virus pneumonia. Infection with influenza A virus did not alter bactericidal defenses in the liver and spleen, but pulmonary bactericidal activity measured 24 hr after infection was suppressed in virus-infected animals; 20% +/- 3% of the initially injected, viable bacteria were recovered from lungs of pneumonitic mice after 24 hr as compared with 9% +/- 1% from lungs of the uninfected mice. These data demonstrate that pulmonary infection with influenza virus does not alter antibacterial defenses of the liver and spleen but does suppress bactericidal activity in the lung.", "PMID": 458195} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13160", "title": "Susceptibility of isolates of Bacteroides to the bactericidal activity of normal human serum.", "content": "Seventy-one strains of species from the Bacteroides fragilis group, including 46 isolates of B. fragilis, were tested for susceptibility to the bactericidal effect of serum from healthy subjects. Twenty-seven (38%) of the isolates were killed by serum. Isolates from feces were significantly more sensitive to serum than were isolates from patients with clinical infections. Killing of bacteria required heat-labile serum components and was an exponential function of serum concentration. Among the various species tested, B. fragilis was clearly the most resistant to bactericidal activity of serum. These observations may be important to the understanding of infections caused by the B. fragilis group, which contains the anaerobes of greatest clinical importance.", "contents": "Susceptibility of isolates of Bacteroides to the bactericidal activity of normal human serum. Seventy-one strains of species from the Bacteroides fragilis group, including 46 isolates of B. fragilis, were tested for susceptibility to the bactericidal effect of serum from healthy subjects. Twenty-seven (38%) of the isolates were killed by serum. Isolates from feces were significantly more sensitive to serum than were isolates from patients with clinical infections. Killing of bacteria required heat-labile serum components and was an exponential function of serum concentration. Among the various species tested, B. fragilis was clearly the most resistant to bactericidal activity of serum. These observations may be important to the understanding of infections caused by the B. fragilis group, which contains the anaerobes of greatest clinical importance.", "PMID": 458196} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13161", "title": "Inhibition by polyanions of adherence by Kanagawa-positive Vibrio parahaemolyticus: a physicochemical effect.", "content": "Rapid adherence of Kanagawa-positive Vibrio parahaemolyticus to human fetal intestinal cells has been demonstrated in monolayer cultures. In this study, polyanionic carbohydrates and glycoproteins of various biochemical compositions, structural configurations, and molecular weights were found to inhibit this adherence. Mono- and disaccharide components of inhibitory compounds did not themselves inhibit adherence. Levels of Ca++ in the test mixture were similar in both the presence and the absence of chondroitin sulfate, a potent inhibitor of adherence by V. parahaemolyticus. These results, which demonstrate a major effect of surface charge in this model of bacterial adherence, suggest that differences in surface charge may contribute to the varying degrees of adherence by different strains of V. parahaemolyticus. This striking effect of surface charge on adherence by V. parahaemolyticus underscores the importance of experimental conditions and of substances that affect the surface potential of the cell in the interpretation of findings in models of bacterial adherence.", "contents": "Inhibition by polyanions of adherence by Kanagawa-positive Vibrio parahaemolyticus: a physicochemical effect. Rapid adherence of Kanagawa-positive Vibrio parahaemolyticus to human fetal intestinal cells has been demonstrated in monolayer cultures. In this study, polyanionic carbohydrates and glycoproteins of various biochemical compositions, structural configurations, and molecular weights were found to inhibit this adherence. Mono- and disaccharide components of inhibitory compounds did not themselves inhibit adherence. Levels of Ca++ in the test mixture were similar in both the presence and the absence of chondroitin sulfate, a potent inhibitor of adherence by V. parahaemolyticus. These results, which demonstrate a major effect of surface charge in this model of bacterial adherence, suggest that differences in surface charge may contribute to the varying degrees of adherence by different strains of V. parahaemolyticus. This striking effect of surface charge on adherence by V. parahaemolyticus underscores the importance of experimental conditions and of substances that affect the surface potential of the cell in the interpretation of findings in models of bacterial adherence.", "PMID": 458197} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13162", "title": "Simultaneous administration of live, enteric-coated adenovirus types 4, 7 and 21 vaccines: safety and immunogenicity.", "content": "The safety of and the immune response to simultaneous administration of live, enteric-coated adenovirus type 4 (ADV-4), type 7 (ADV-7), and type 21 (ADV-21) vaccines were studied. Volunteers (476 men), randomly assigned to four study groups, received three vaccines (ADV-4, ADV-7, and ADV-21), two vaccines (ADV-4 and ADV-7), one vaccine (ADV-21), or no vaccine (placebo). Subjects were observed for three weeks, and no side effects due to vaccination occured. The percentages of susceptible subjects (those entering the study with a neutralizing antibody titer of less than 1:2 to each vaccine virus received) who seroconverted to ADV-4 were similar in both groups that received ADV-4 vaccine (78% of 77 subjects and 74% of 76). However, in the group that received three vaccines, only 62% of 77 subjects seroconverted to ADV-7, compared with 79% of 76 in the group that received two vaccines (P less than 0.05). Only 58% of 77 subjects in the three-vaccine group seroconverted to ADV-21, compared with 69% of 59 in the group that received one vaccine (P greater than 0.1).", "contents": "Simultaneous administration of live, enteric-coated adenovirus types 4, 7 and 21 vaccines: safety and immunogenicity. The safety of and the immune response to simultaneous administration of live, enteric-coated adenovirus type 4 (ADV-4), type 7 (ADV-7), and type 21 (ADV-21) vaccines were studied. Volunteers (476 men), randomly assigned to four study groups, received three vaccines (ADV-4, ADV-7, and ADV-21), two vaccines (ADV-4 and ADV-7), one vaccine (ADV-21), or no vaccine (placebo). Subjects were observed for three weeks, and no side effects due to vaccination occured. The percentages of susceptible subjects (those entering the study with a neutralizing antibody titer of less than 1:2 to each vaccine virus received) who seroconverted to ADV-4 were similar in both groups that received ADV-4 vaccine (78% of 77 subjects and 74% of 76). However, in the group that received three vaccines, only 62% of 77 subjects seroconverted to ADV-7, compared with 79% of 76 in the group that received two vaccines (P less than 0.05). Only 58% of 77 subjects in the three-vaccine group seroconverted to ADV-21, compared with 69% of 59 in the group that received one vaccine (P greater than 0.1).", "PMID": 458200} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13163", "title": "Circulating staphylococcal antigen in humans and immune rabbits with endocarditis due to Staphylococcus aureus: inhibition of detection by preexisting antibodies.", "content": "A radioimmunoassay for staphylococcal antigen that had detected antigenemia in each of 12 nonimmune rabbits with staphylococcal endocarditis detected antigen in sera from one of nine humans and two of eight immune rabbits with Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis. Staphylococcal antigens could be detected at concentrations as low as 0.78 microgram/ml when diluted in normal rabbit serum, compared with 6.25 microgram/ml when diluted in normal human serum and greater than 25 microgram/ml when diluted in immune rabbit or human serum. Low titers of staphylococcal antibody were found in normal rabbit serum compared with immune rabbit and normal or immune human sera. Detection of staphylococcal antigen was inhibited when the antigen was diluted in the IgG and IgM fractions, but not in the albumin fraction, of normal human serum. This study demonstrated that antigenemia can be detected infrequently in patients and immune rabbits with staphylococcal endocarditis; staphylococcal antibodies inhibit detection of antigen, presumably through formation of immune complexes.", "contents": "Circulating staphylococcal antigen in humans and immune rabbits with endocarditis due to Staphylococcus aureus: inhibition of detection by preexisting antibodies. A radioimmunoassay for staphylococcal antigen that had detected antigenemia in each of 12 nonimmune rabbits with staphylococcal endocarditis detected antigen in sera from one of nine humans and two of eight immune rabbits with Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis. Staphylococcal antigens could be detected at concentrations as low as 0.78 microgram/ml when diluted in normal rabbit serum, compared with 6.25 microgram/ml when diluted in normal human serum and greater than 25 microgram/ml when diluted in immune rabbit or human serum. Low titers of staphylococcal antibody were found in normal rabbit serum compared with immune rabbit and normal or immune human sera. Detection of staphylococcal antigen was inhibited when the antigen was diluted in the IgG and IgM fractions, but not in the albumin fraction, of normal human serum. This study demonstrated that antigenemia can be detected infrequently in patients and immune rabbits with staphylococcal endocarditis; staphylococcal antibodies inhibit detection of antigen, presumably through formation of immune complexes.", "PMID": 458201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13164", "title": "Studies of the kinetics of indium-111-labeled granulocytes.", "content": "Studies of the in vivo kinetics of granulocytes labeled in vitro with indium-111 were carried out in 10 normal subjects. The granulocyte suspension was prepared with a Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient and labeled with indium-111-oxine. No elution or reutilization of the radioisotope was demonstrable in vitro. The average intravascular recovery of indium-labeled granulocytes was 30% +/- 6, and the t 1/2 was 5.0 +/- 1.6 hr. Normal in vitro function of these cells was demonstrated by bacterial killing and chemotaxis assays. Because indium-111 decays by gamma emission, the fate of in vivo labeled granulocytes can be followed with scintigraphic techniques. Images obtained indicated normal uptake of activity in the liver and spleen. Effective in vivo function of indium-labeled granulocytes was demonstrated in four patients by the localization of radioactivity at sites of inflammation or abscess. Although the intravascular recovery with this method is lower than that reported for some other radioisotope methods, the comparison of abnormal findings with normal values by this technique is probably valid. Indium-labeled granulocytes should prove useful in the study of granulocyte collection, transfusion, histocompatibility, and storage.", "contents": "Studies of the kinetics of indium-111-labeled granulocytes. Studies of the in vivo kinetics of granulocytes labeled in vitro with indium-111 were carried out in 10 normal subjects. The granulocyte suspension was prepared with a Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient and labeled with indium-111-oxine. No elution or reutilization of the radioisotope was demonstrable in vitro. The average intravascular recovery of indium-labeled granulocytes was 30% +/- 6, and the t 1/2 was 5.0 +/- 1.6 hr. Normal in vitro function of these cells was demonstrated by bacterial killing and chemotaxis assays. Because indium-111 decays by gamma emission, the fate of in vivo labeled granulocytes can be followed with scintigraphic techniques. Images obtained indicated normal uptake of activity in the liver and spleen. Effective in vivo function of indium-labeled granulocytes was demonstrated in four patients by the localization of radioactivity at sites of inflammation or abscess. Although the intravascular recovery with this method is lower than that reported for some other radioisotope methods, the comparison of abnormal findings with normal values by this technique is probably valid. Indium-labeled granulocytes should prove useful in the study of granulocyte collection, transfusion, histocompatibility, and storage.", "PMID": 458243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13165", "title": "Tetramethylbenzidine--a substitute for benzidine in hemoglobin analysis.", "content": "Plasma hemoglobin is routinely measured by some modification of the benzidine-hydrogen peroxide method, particularly at low concentrations. Because benzidine is carcinogenic, and thus impractical for clinical use under current restrictions, the identification of a noncarcinogenic benzidine derivative has become important. 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine fulfills this criterion, and consequently a method is described in this paper which uses it for hemoglobin determinations in the range of 1 to 100 mg/dl. Absorption spectra show this method to be far less influenced by plasma proteins and other substances than the benzidine method, and moreover the sensitivity of TMB is at least seven times that of benzidine under comparable conditions.", "contents": "Tetramethylbenzidine--a substitute for benzidine in hemoglobin analysis. Plasma hemoglobin is routinely measured by some modification of the benzidine-hydrogen peroxide method, particularly at low concentrations. Because benzidine is carcinogenic, and thus impractical for clinical use under current restrictions, the identification of a noncarcinogenic benzidine derivative has become important. 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine fulfills this criterion, and consequently a method is described in this paper which uses it for hemoglobin determinations in the range of 1 to 100 mg/dl. Absorption spectra show this method to be far less influenced by plasma proteins and other substances than the benzidine method, and moreover the sensitivity of TMB is at least seven times that of benzidine under comparable conditions.", "PMID": 458244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13166", "title": "Role of platelets in lysis of dilute plasma clots: requirement for metabolically active platelets.", "content": "The role of platelets in clot lysis has been investigated functionally with the use of dPRP clots formed at 4 degrees and shifted to 37 degrees. Clots handled in this manner lysed in 6 hr (+/- 1 hr), whereas clots formed at 4 degrees or at 37 degrees and held at those temperatures, or clots formed from dPPP did not lyse in less than 20 hr. dPRP clots having the shorter (6 hr) lysis time released 14C-5-HT at the time of the temperature shift. Preincubation of dPRP with antimycin A and 2-deoxy-D-glucose before addition of thrombin prolonged the clot lysis to 26 hr and inhibited release of 14C-5-HT at the time of the temperature shift. These studies demonstrate that metabolically active platelets are required to mediate the optimal clot lysis seen in the 4 degrees to 37 degrees system and that they continue to function (i.e., take up and release 5-hydroxytryptamine) after they have been incorporated into a clot. Thus the dPRP clot lysis system provides a model by which the timing and sequence of the interaction of metabolically active platelets with the fibrin framework of the formed clot can be studied.", "contents": "Role of platelets in lysis of dilute plasma clots: requirement for metabolically active platelets. The role of platelets in clot lysis has been investigated functionally with the use of dPRP clots formed at 4 degrees and shifted to 37 degrees. Clots handled in this manner lysed in 6 hr (+/- 1 hr), whereas clots formed at 4 degrees or at 37 degrees and held at those temperatures, or clots formed from dPPP did not lyse in less than 20 hr. dPRP clots having the shorter (6 hr) lysis time released 14C-5-HT at the time of the temperature shift. Preincubation of dPRP with antimycin A and 2-deoxy-D-glucose before addition of thrombin prolonged the clot lysis to 26 hr and inhibited release of 14C-5-HT at the time of the temperature shift. These studies demonstrate that metabolically active platelets are required to mediate the optimal clot lysis seen in the 4 degrees to 37 degrees system and that they continue to function (i.e., take up and release 5-hydroxytryptamine) after they have been incorporated into a clot. Thus the dPRP clot lysis system provides a model by which the timing and sequence of the interaction of metabolically active platelets with the fibrin framework of the formed clot can be studied.", "PMID": 458246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13167", "title": "Predisposing factors to thrombosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: possible relation to endothelial cell damage.", "content": "We studied 28 patients with SLE, five of whom had had thrombotic episodes. Platelet function and coagulation and fibrinolytic studies were performed to determine whether any of these factors may predispose to thrombosis in SLE. An inhibitor of blood coagulation was detected in 12 patients, and von Willebrand's syndrome was observed in two others. The most striking findings which could be correlated with thromboembolic phenomena were the increase in VII R:WF and the absence of plasminogen activator release after venous occlusion. Both proteins are synthesized by the endothelial cell, and the abnormalities observed are possibly related to damage of the vascular endothelium by immune complexes observed in SLE.", "contents": "Predisposing factors to thrombosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: possible relation to endothelial cell damage. We studied 28 patients with SLE, five of whom had had thrombotic episodes. Platelet function and coagulation and fibrinolytic studies were performed to determine whether any of these factors may predispose to thrombosis in SLE. An inhibitor of blood coagulation was detected in 12 patients, and von Willebrand's syndrome was observed in two others. The most striking findings which could be correlated with thromboembolic phenomena were the increase in VII R:WF and the absence of plasminogen activator release after venous occlusion. Both proteins are synthesized by the endothelial cell, and the abnormalities observed are possibly related to damage of the vascular endothelium by immune complexes observed in SLE.", "PMID": 458249} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13168", "title": "Virulent gentamicin-induced small colony variants of Staphylococcus aureus.", "content": "Stable nonhemolytic small colony variants were isolated in pure culture from nine of 30 Staphylococcus aureus clinical strains after incubation of log10 7.0 cfu for 48 hr in MH broth containing 1.0 microgram/ml gentamicin. The variants resembled Staphylococcus epidermidis on blood agar, but they were positive for tube coagulase and thermostable nuclease at 24 hr and fermented mannitol slowly. The infectivity and virulence of four variants were compared to four parent S. aureus and three S. epidermidis strains in a rabbit model of endocarditis. Log10 5.0 cfu of the variant S. aureus, parent S. aureus, or S. epidermidis strains were injected intravenously into rabbits with intracardiac catheters. Quantitative culture of vegetations demonstrated endocardial infection in 47 of 49 (96%) animals injected with S. aureus variants, 44 of 44 injected with S. aureus parent strains, and four of 21 (19%) S. epidermidis-injected animals. The mortality rate in untreated animals within 4 days was five of 49 (10%) for variant S. aureus, 33 of 44 (75%) for parent S. aureus, and 0 of 21 for S. epidermidis. Small colony variants of S. aureus may be mistaken for S. epidermidis, but the variants are significantly more infective than S. epidermidis and are more likely to cause endocarditis. Gentamicin-induced S. aureus small colony variants are as infective but less virulent than their parent S. aureus strains.", "contents": "Virulent gentamicin-induced small colony variants of Staphylococcus aureus. Stable nonhemolytic small colony variants were isolated in pure culture from nine of 30 Staphylococcus aureus clinical strains after incubation of log10 7.0 cfu for 48 hr in MH broth containing 1.0 microgram/ml gentamicin. The variants resembled Staphylococcus epidermidis on blood agar, but they were positive for tube coagulase and thermostable nuclease at 24 hr and fermented mannitol slowly. The infectivity and virulence of four variants were compared to four parent S. aureus and three S. epidermidis strains in a rabbit model of endocarditis. Log10 5.0 cfu of the variant S. aureus, parent S. aureus, or S. epidermidis strains were injected intravenously into rabbits with intracardiac catheters. Quantitative culture of vegetations demonstrated endocardial infection in 47 of 49 (96%) animals injected with S. aureus variants, 44 of 44 injected with S. aureus parent strains, and four of 21 (19%) S. epidermidis-injected animals. The mortality rate in untreated animals within 4 days was five of 49 (10%) for variant S. aureus, 33 of 44 (75%) for parent S. aureus, and 0 of 21 for S. epidermidis. Small colony variants of S. aureus may be mistaken for S. epidermidis, but the variants are significantly more infective than S. epidermidis and are more likely to cause endocarditis. Gentamicin-induced S. aureus small colony variants are as infective but less virulent than their parent S. aureus strains.", "PMID": 458250} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13169", "title": "A proposed model for chemotactic deactivation: evidence for microtubule modulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis.", "content": "Incubation of the CFs Gly-His-Glyc or CCF with PMNs in the absence of a gradient, resulted in a dose-dependent depression in chemotactic activity when, after washing, the cells were challenged with the CFs in a Boyden chamber. When the cells were preincubated with either CF and suitable concentrations of colchicine, the inhibition of chemotaxis that either of these agents induced when incubated with the cells alone was abolished. Deactivation reappeared when the optimal ratio between colchicine and CF was altered in either direction. Ultramicroscopic studies showed an increase in centriole-associated microtubules following incubation of cells with CFs. This increase was arrested by prior exposure of the cells to colchicine. Colchicine did not alter the specific binding of CCF to human neutrophils, and lumicolchicine had no effect on either chemotaxis or deactivation. Our data suggest that the control of PMN chemotaxis is predicted upon microtubule assembly evoked by cell interaction with a chemotactic gradient. Chemotaxis would be prevented by conditions that inappropriately organize responsive microtubules in either a polymerized or depolymerized configuration.", "contents": "A proposed model for chemotactic deactivation: evidence for microtubule modulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis. Incubation of the CFs Gly-His-Glyc or CCF with PMNs in the absence of a gradient, resulted in a dose-dependent depression in chemotactic activity when, after washing, the cells were challenged with the CFs in a Boyden chamber. When the cells were preincubated with either CF and suitable concentrations of colchicine, the inhibition of chemotaxis that either of these agents induced when incubated with the cells alone was abolished. Deactivation reappeared when the optimal ratio between colchicine and CF was altered in either direction. Ultramicroscopic studies showed an increase in centriole-associated microtubules following incubation of cells with CFs. This increase was arrested by prior exposure of the cells to colchicine. Colchicine did not alter the specific binding of CCF to human neutrophils, and lumicolchicine had no effect on either chemotaxis or deactivation. Our data suggest that the control of PMN chemotaxis is predicted upon microtubule assembly evoked by cell interaction with a chemotactic gradient. Chemotaxis would be prevented by conditions that inappropriately organize responsive microtubules in either a polymerized or depolymerized configuration.", "PMID": 458252} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13170", "title": "Effects of storage on platelet reactivity to arterial subendothelium during blood flow.", "content": "The usual in vitro methods for studies of platelets after storage do not measure physiological parameters such as capability for interaction with vessel wall subendothelium during blood flow conditions. For studies reported here we adapted a technique described by Baumgartner (Microvasc Res 5:167, 1973) to quantitate platelet interactions with subendothelium during blood flow and before and after storage at 4 degrees and 22 degrees and by a modified 4 degrees procedure called temperature cycling. The results indicated that platelets kept at 22 degrees for 72 hr interacted with subendothelium in quantities which were less than 10% that of fresh controls. However, storage at 4 degrees and by temperature cycling produced interactions equal to 71% and 42% of controls, respectively. The data also indicated that utilization of Baumgartner's technigue as described here will (1) provide an in vitro technique for identification of qualitative defects responsible for the delayed hemostatic effectiveness of 22 degrees-stored platelets and (2) permit an objective and quantitative analysis of prospective improvements in storage before in vivo function testing is necessary.", "contents": "Effects of storage on platelet reactivity to arterial subendothelium during blood flow. The usual in vitro methods for studies of platelets after storage do not measure physiological parameters such as capability for interaction with vessel wall subendothelium during blood flow conditions. For studies reported here we adapted a technique described by Baumgartner (Microvasc Res 5:167, 1973) to quantitate platelet interactions with subendothelium during blood flow and before and after storage at 4 degrees and 22 degrees and by a modified 4 degrees procedure called temperature cycling. The results indicated that platelets kept at 22 degrees for 72 hr interacted with subendothelium in quantities which were less than 10% that of fresh controls. However, storage at 4 degrees and by temperature cycling produced interactions equal to 71% and 42% of controls, respectively. The data also indicated that utilization of Baumgartner's technigue as described here will (1) provide an in vitro technique for identification of qualitative defects responsible for the delayed hemostatic effectiveness of 22 degrees-stored platelets and (2) permit an objective and quantitative analysis of prospective improvements in storage before in vivo function testing is necessary.", "PMID": 458253} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13171", "title": "Reverse cross-coupling in the synthesis 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid.", "content": "The present report describes the characterization of (24R and 24S)-27-nor-24-methyl-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acids obtained in considerable amounts during the synthesis of (25RS)-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acid by the electrolytic coupling of chenodeoxycholic acid and the half ester of methylsuccinic acid. The mixture of 24R and 24S diastereomers was resolved by analytical and preparative thin-layer chromatography and characterized by gas-liquid chromatography, proton magnetic resonance, and molecular rotation differences. For reference, the model compound, 27-nor-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acid, was synthesized by electrolytic coupling of chenodeoxycholic acid and the half ester of succinic acid.", "contents": "Reverse cross-coupling in the synthesis 3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestanoic acid. The present report describes the characterization of (24R and 24S)-27-nor-24-methyl-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acids obtained in considerable amounts during the synthesis of (25RS)-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acid by the electrolytic coupling of chenodeoxycholic acid and the half ester of methylsuccinic acid. The mixture of 24R and 24S diastereomers was resolved by analytical and preparative thin-layer chromatography and characterized by gas-liquid chromatography, proton magnetic resonance, and molecular rotation differences. For reference, the model compound, 27-nor-3 alpha, 7 alpha-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholestan-26-oic acid, was synthesized by electrolytic coupling of chenodeoxycholic acid and the half ester of succinic acid.", "PMID": 458264} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13172", "title": "Lipid composition of human neural tumors.", "content": "Gangliosides, cholesterol, and phospholipids were quantitated in the tissues of 11 human neural tumors and the cells of two gliomas cultured in vitro. All tumor tissues contained higher water concentrations but lower total lipid concentrations than either human grey or white matter. In general they contained less cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and serine glycerophospholipid but more choline glycerophospholipid than white matter. Concentrations of total ganglioside sialic acid were intermediate between grey and white matter. Compared with normal brain, all tumors had greater proportions of the structurally less complex gangliosides and smaller proportions of the more complex gangliosides. This was most marked in the rapidly growing tumors while the better differentiated astrocytomas contained the greatest proportions of complex gangliosides. The cells of the cultured tumors contained amounts of total lipid and total phospholipid similar to their parent tissues. However, the cultures had less cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and total ganglioside than their parent tissues. There were significant amounts of choline and ethanolamine plasmalogens in both cultures and parent tissues. The ganglioside patterns of both cultures were complex but they contained a greater proportion of structurally simpler gangliosides than their parent tissues.-Yates, A. J., D. K. Thompson, C. P. Boesel, C. Albrightson, and R. W. Hart. Lipid composition of human neural tumors.", "contents": "Lipid composition of human neural tumors. Gangliosides, cholesterol, and phospholipids were quantitated in the tissues of 11 human neural tumors and the cells of two gliomas cultured in vitro. All tumor tissues contained higher water concentrations but lower total lipid concentrations than either human grey or white matter. In general they contained less cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and serine glycerophospholipid but more choline glycerophospholipid than white matter. Concentrations of total ganglioside sialic acid were intermediate between grey and white matter. Compared with normal brain, all tumors had greater proportions of the structurally less complex gangliosides and smaller proportions of the more complex gangliosides. This was most marked in the rapidly growing tumors while the better differentiated astrocytomas contained the greatest proportions of complex gangliosides. The cells of the cultured tumors contained amounts of total lipid and total phospholipid similar to their parent tissues. However, the cultures had less cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and total ganglioside than their parent tissues. There were significant amounts of choline and ethanolamine plasmalogens in both cultures and parent tissues. The ganglioside patterns of both cultures were complex but they contained a greater proportion of structurally simpler gangliosides than their parent tissues.-Yates, A. J., D. K. Thompson, C. P. Boesel, C. Albrightson, and R. W. Hart. Lipid composition of human neural tumors.", "PMID": 458265} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13173", "title": "Enzyme-substrate interaction in lipid monolayers. I. Experimental conditions and fundamental kinetics.", "content": "A systematic study has shown the importance of the different factors which are concerned with the action of lipase on a substrate (1,3-didecanoylglycerol). These consist of a) the process of adsorption of lipase to the surface, b) the necessity of limited stirring to reach equilibrium, and c) the persistence during the reaction process of the enzyme molecules adsorbed on the monolayer. On the basis of this preliminary investigation, a technique was established to analyze the mechanism of lipase action with defined quantities of enzyme and lipid segregated in the monolayer. Thus, the process of the reaction itself is separated from the adsorption process, and it is demonstrated that the quantity of substrate hydrolyzed per minute depends only on the quantity of initially adsorbed lipase and not on the quantity of substrate or on the surface concentration of the enzyme. An appropriate new definition of the rate is consequently adopted.", "contents": "Enzyme-substrate interaction in lipid monolayers. I. Experimental conditions and fundamental kinetics. A systematic study has shown the importance of the different factors which are concerned with the action of lipase on a substrate (1,3-didecanoylglycerol). These consist of a) the process of adsorption of lipase to the surface, b) the necessity of limited stirring to reach equilibrium, and c) the persistence during the reaction process of the enzyme molecules adsorbed on the monolayer. On the basis of this preliminary investigation, a technique was established to analyze the mechanism of lipase action with defined quantities of enzyme and lipid segregated in the monolayer. Thus, the process of the reaction itself is separated from the adsorption process, and it is demonstrated that the quantity of substrate hydrolyzed per minute depends only on the quantity of initially adsorbed lipase and not on the quantity of substrate or on the surface concentration of the enzyme. An appropriate new definition of the rate is consequently adopted.", "PMID": 458266} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13174", "title": "Enzyme-substrate interaction in lipid monolayers. II. Binding and activity of lipase in relation to enzyme and substrate concentration and to other factors.", "content": "With the limited stirring procedure used in the present work, substrate and enzyme together form a segregated and well-defined system on the surface. The lipase molecules responsible for the lipolysis are only those that are adsorbed on the glyceride monolayer. After a study of the stirring procedure, two series of systematic experiments were done: a) the bulk concentration of the enzyme was varied with different constant surface concentrations of the substrate, and b) the surface concentration of the substrate was varied with different constant bulk concentrations of the enzyme. The influence of the surface concentration of substrate on a) the rate of lipolysis, V,; b) the enzyme activity, a,; and c) the enzyme adsorption, Ze, were each determined by a different procedure. The values obtained verify the enzymic activity equation (a = V/Ze). The roles of other factors (Ca2+ ions, and pH) which govern the adsorption of the enzyme and its specific activity were also studied in preliminary experiments.", "contents": "Enzyme-substrate interaction in lipid monolayers. II. Binding and activity of lipase in relation to enzyme and substrate concentration and to other factors. With the limited stirring procedure used in the present work, substrate and enzyme together form a segregated and well-defined system on the surface. The lipase molecules responsible for the lipolysis are only those that are adsorbed on the glyceride monolayer. After a study of the stirring procedure, two series of systematic experiments were done: a) the bulk concentration of the enzyme was varied with different constant surface concentrations of the substrate, and b) the surface concentration of the substrate was varied with different constant bulk concentrations of the enzyme. The influence of the surface concentration of substrate on a) the rate of lipolysis, V,; b) the enzyme activity, a,; and c) the enzyme adsorption, Ze, were each determined by a different procedure. The values obtained verify the enzymic activity equation (a = V/Ze). The roles of other factors (Ca2+ ions, and pH) which govern the adsorption of the enzyme and its specific activity were also studied in preliminary experiments.", "PMID": 458267} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13175", "title": "Metabolism of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol and 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol into cholic acid in normal human subjects.", "content": "Side chain oxidation and cleavage of precursors in cholic acid synthesis is thought to involve initial hydroxylation at either position 25 or 26 of the side chain. Therefore, the conversion of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol and 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol into cholic acid was studied in normal subjects after single intravenous injections of these labeled alcohols. Eighty-six percent and 82% of 5 beta-cholestane, 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol was converted into cholic acid in two subjects, respectively. However, only 14 and 16% of the injected 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol was converted into cholic acid in two subjects, respectively. Thus, this study indicates that 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol is an inefficient substrate for cholic acid biosynthesis in man and that the major route of cholic acid synthesis probably involves the 26-hydroxylated intermediate.", "contents": "Metabolism of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol and 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol into cholic acid in normal human subjects. Side chain oxidation and cleavage of precursors in cholic acid synthesis is thought to involve initial hydroxylation at either position 25 or 26 of the side chain. Therefore, the conversion of 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol and 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol into cholic acid was studied in normal subjects after single intravenous injections of these labeled alcohols. Eighty-six percent and 82% of 5 beta-cholestane, 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 26-tetrol was converted into cholic acid in two subjects, respectively. However, only 14 and 16% of the injected 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol was converted into cholic acid in two subjects, respectively. Thus, this study indicates that 5 beta-cholestane-3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 25-tetrol is an inefficient substrate for cholic acid biosynthesis in man and that the major route of cholic acid synthesis probably involves the 26-hydroxylated intermediate.", "PMID": 458268} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13176", "title": "The phase behavior of hydrated cholesterol.", "content": "The thermotropic phase behavior of cholesterol monohydrate in water was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing light microscopy, and x-ray diffraction. In contrast to anhydrous cholesterol which undergoes a polymorphic crystalline transition at 39 degrees C and a crystalline to liquid transition at 151 degrees C, the closed system of cholesterol monohydrate and water exhibited three reversible endothermic transitions at 86, 123, and 157 degrees C. At 86 degrees C, cholesterol monohydrate loses its water of hydration, forming the high temperature polymorph of anhydrous cholesterol. At least 24 hours were required for re-hydration of cholesterol and the rate of hydration was dependent on the polymorphic crystalline form of anhydrous cholesterol. At 123 degrees C, anhydrous crystalline cholesterol in the presence of excess water undergoes a sharp transition to a birefringent liquid crystalline phase of smectic texture. The x-ray diffraction pattern obtained from this phase contained two sharp low-angle reflections at 37.4 and 18.7 A and a diffuse wide-angle reflection centered at 5.7 A, indicating a layered smectic type of liquid crystalline structure with each layer being two cholesterol molecules thick. The liquid crystalline phase is stable over the temperature range of 123 to 157 degrees C before melting to a liquid dispersed in water. The observation of a smectic liquid crystalline phase for hydrated cholesterol correlates with its high surface activity and helps to explain its ability to exist in high concentrations in biological membranes.", "contents": "The phase behavior of hydrated cholesterol. The thermotropic phase behavior of cholesterol monohydrate in water was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing light microscopy, and x-ray diffraction. In contrast to anhydrous cholesterol which undergoes a polymorphic crystalline transition at 39 degrees C and a crystalline to liquid transition at 151 degrees C, the closed system of cholesterol monohydrate and water exhibited three reversible endothermic transitions at 86, 123, and 157 degrees C. At 86 degrees C, cholesterol monohydrate loses its water of hydration, forming the high temperature polymorph of anhydrous cholesterol. At least 24 hours were required for re-hydration of cholesterol and the rate of hydration was dependent on the polymorphic crystalline form of anhydrous cholesterol. At 123 degrees C, anhydrous crystalline cholesterol in the presence of excess water undergoes a sharp transition to a birefringent liquid crystalline phase of smectic texture. The x-ray diffraction pattern obtained from this phase contained two sharp low-angle reflections at 37.4 and 18.7 A and a diffuse wide-angle reflection centered at 5.7 A, indicating a layered smectic type of liquid crystalline structure with each layer being two cholesterol molecules thick. The liquid crystalline phase is stable over the temperature range of 123 to 157 degrees C before melting to a liquid dispersed in water. The observation of a smectic liquid crystalline phase for hydrated cholesterol correlates with its high surface activity and helps to explain its ability to exist in high concentrations in biological membranes.", "PMID": 458269} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13177", "title": "Modification of the fatty acid composition of cultured human fibroblasts.", "content": "The fatty acid composition of human skin fibroblasts grown in 10% dialyzed fetal calf serum can be modified considerably by adding supplemental fatty acids to the culture medium. The degree of modification was dependent on the concentration of added fatty acid over the range tested, 2.5 X 10(-5) to 1 X 10(-4) M. At the higher concentration, the extent of the modifications was as those which can be produced in nonhuman or malignant cell lines. Although the greatest changes were produced in the neutral lipid fraction, the cellular phospholipids also exhibited appreciable modifications. The phospholipids isolated from a microsomal fraction prepared from the cell homogenate exhibited similar changes in fatty acyl composition. These findings indicate that the human fibroblast can tolerate considerable variability in fatty acid composition, even in membrane phospholipids. The triglyceride content of the cells increased when they were grown in the presence of added fatty acids, but the phospholipid and cholesterol content remained unchanged. Growth was not affected by either oleic or linoleic acids, but it was reduced up to 50% when palmitic linolenic, or arachidonic acid was added in concentrations of 5 X 10(-5) M or above. Extensive modifications in phospholipid fatty acid composition also were produced in confluent monolayers of these fibroblasts. This suggest that some membrane lipid turnover occurs even when the cultures are not rapidly growing. Fatty acid modifications also were produced in the commercially available IMR-90 strain of human lung fibroblasts, suggesting that the ability to tolerate considerable differences in fatty acid composition is not a special property of the skin fibroblast line that was isolated locally.", "contents": "Modification of the fatty acid composition of cultured human fibroblasts. The fatty acid composition of human skin fibroblasts grown in 10% dialyzed fetal calf serum can be modified considerably by adding supplemental fatty acids to the culture medium. The degree of modification was dependent on the concentration of added fatty acid over the range tested, 2.5 X 10(-5) to 1 X 10(-4) M. At the higher concentration, the extent of the modifications was as those which can be produced in nonhuman or malignant cell lines. Although the greatest changes were produced in the neutral lipid fraction, the cellular phospholipids also exhibited appreciable modifications. The phospholipids isolated from a microsomal fraction prepared from the cell homogenate exhibited similar changes in fatty acyl composition. These findings indicate that the human fibroblast can tolerate considerable variability in fatty acid composition, even in membrane phospholipids. The triglyceride content of the cells increased when they were grown in the presence of added fatty acids, but the phospholipid and cholesterol content remained unchanged. Growth was not affected by either oleic or linoleic acids, but it was reduced up to 50% when palmitic linolenic, or arachidonic acid was added in concentrations of 5 X 10(-5) M or above. Extensive modifications in phospholipid fatty acid composition also were produced in confluent monolayers of these fibroblasts. This suggest that some membrane lipid turnover occurs even when the cultures are not rapidly growing. Fatty acid modifications also were produced in the commercially available IMR-90 strain of human lung fibroblasts, suggesting that the ability to tolerate considerable differences in fatty acid composition is not a special property of the skin fibroblast line that was isolated locally.", "PMID": 458270} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13178", "title": "A new method for the measurement of lipoprotein lipase in postheparin plasma using sodium dodecyl sulfate for the inactivation of hepatic triglyceride lipase.", "content": "Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic triglyceride lipase (H-TGL) are lipolytic activities found in postheparin plasma. A simple and precise method for the direct determination of LPL in postheparin plasma is described. Pre-incubations of this plasma (45--60 min at 26 degrees C) with sodium dodecyl sulfate (35--50 mM) in 0.2 M Tris-HCl buffer, pH 8.2, results in the inactivation of H-TGL, while leaving LPL fully active. Direct determination of H-TGL is done in a separate aliquot of the same postheparin plasma sample using previously reported assay conditons that do not measure LPL. The sodium dodecyl sulfate-resistant lipolytic activity has the characteristics of LPL as judged by a) its activation by serum and by apolipoprotein C-II; b) its inactivation (over 90%) by 0.75 M NaCl; and c) its inactivation by a specific antiserum. No sodium dodecyl sulfate-resistant activity was found in postheparin plasma from a patient with LPL deficiency (primary type I hyperlipoproteinemia). An excellent correlation of values was obtained (r = 0.99) for 30 samples assayed after sodium dodecyl sulfate treatment and after immuno-inactivation of H-TGL. The intra-assay coefficient of variation was +/- 11% and 4% before and after normalization of values, respectively.", "contents": "A new method for the measurement of lipoprotein lipase in postheparin plasma using sodium dodecyl sulfate for the inactivation of hepatic triglyceride lipase. Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic triglyceride lipase (H-TGL) are lipolytic activities found in postheparin plasma. A simple and precise method for the direct determination of LPL in postheparin plasma is described. Pre-incubations of this plasma (45--60 min at 26 degrees C) with sodium dodecyl sulfate (35--50 mM) in 0.2 M Tris-HCl buffer, pH 8.2, results in the inactivation of H-TGL, while leaving LPL fully active. Direct determination of H-TGL is done in a separate aliquot of the same postheparin plasma sample using previously reported assay conditons that do not measure LPL. The sodium dodecyl sulfate-resistant lipolytic activity has the characteristics of LPL as judged by a) its activation by serum and by apolipoprotein C-II; b) its inactivation (over 90%) by 0.75 M NaCl; and c) its inactivation by a specific antiserum. No sodium dodecyl sulfate-resistant activity was found in postheparin plasma from a patient with LPL deficiency (primary type I hyperlipoproteinemia). An excellent correlation of values was obtained (r = 0.99) for 30 samples assayed after sodium dodecyl sulfate treatment and after immuno-inactivation of H-TGL. The intra-assay coefficient of variation was +/- 11% and 4% before and after normalization of values, respectively.", "PMID": 458271} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13179", "title": "Modification of the Dittmer-Lester reagent for the detection of phospholipid derivatives on thin-layer chromatograms.", "content": "A simple modification of the Dittmer-Lester reagent is described that allow the detection of phospholipid derivatives at very low concentrations on silica gel and reversed-phase thin-layer plates. This modification, which involves the addition of acetic acid to the mixture, permits the observation of sharp blue spots on a white background. The specificity and sensitivity of the spray are discussed.", "contents": "Modification of the Dittmer-Lester reagent for the detection of phospholipid derivatives on thin-layer chromatograms. A simple modification of the Dittmer-Lester reagent is described that allow the detection of phospholipid derivatives at very low concentrations on silica gel and reversed-phase thin-layer plates. This modification, which involves the addition of acetic acid to the mixture, permits the observation of sharp blue spots on a white background. The specificity and sensitivity of the spray are discussed.", "PMID": 458272} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13180", "title": "Electrocardiographic observations on the termination of supraventricular tachycardia by verapamil.", "content": "The effect of intravenous verapamil on the termination of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was studied by continuous electrocardiographic monitoring of 27 episodes of SVT. Progressive increase of the cycle length heralded conversion in eight episodes while cycle-length alternation preceded cessation of the arrhythmia in 13 episodes. In five patients the arrhythmia was either stopped or closely followed by a ventricular premature beat (VPB), followed by further VPBs in three. Runs of bizarre ventricular tachycardia followed initial sinus-beats in two patients. Sinus standstill, lasting 30 seconds, was observed in one patient. The first post SVT beats had an aberrant QRS configuration with a normal P-R interval in four cases and an aberrant QRS complex with a short P-R interval, resembling Wolff-Parkinson-White complexes, in a further seven patients. The possible mechanisms causing this variability of pre- and post-conversion period are discussed. It is suggested that some aspects of verapamil action may be explained by a parasympaticomimetic effect on the myocardium.", "contents": "Electrocardiographic observations on the termination of supraventricular tachycardia by verapamil. The effect of intravenous verapamil on the termination of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was studied by continuous electrocardiographic monitoring of 27 episodes of SVT. Progressive increase of the cycle length heralded conversion in eight episodes while cycle-length alternation preceded cessation of the arrhythmia in 13 episodes. In five patients the arrhythmia was either stopped or closely followed by a ventricular premature beat (VPB), followed by further VPBs in three. Runs of bizarre ventricular tachycardia followed initial sinus-beats in two patients. Sinus standstill, lasting 30 seconds, was observed in one patient. The first post SVT beats had an aberrant QRS configuration with a normal P-R interval in four cases and an aberrant QRS complex with a short P-R interval, resembling Wolff-Parkinson-White complexes, in a further seven patients. The possible mechanisms causing this variability of pre- and post-conversion period are discussed. It is suggested that some aspects of verapamil action may be explained by a parasympaticomimetic effect on the myocardium.", "PMID": 458281} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13181", "title": "Conduction disturbances in patients with calcified mitral annulus diagnosed by echocardiography.", "content": "Clinical, radiologic and histo-pathological observations have suggested that conduction disturbances (CD) are frequent in patients with calcified mitral annulus (CMA). To determine the incidence of CD, 65 consecutive patients with CMA were studied. Sixty-five normal individuals, matched for age and sex served as a control group. CMA has been identified by M-mode echocardiography, cross-sectional echo and image amplifier fluoroscopy. CD were present in 23 patients with CMA as compared to seven patients in the control group (p less than 0.01). Three patients developed complete atrioventricular block (4.6%) during hospitalization requiring artificial pacemakers. We conclude that, 1) early detection of CMA in the elderly is useful in predicting a higher incidence of CD. 2) Complete heart block is more frequent in patients with CMA. 3) Frequent ECG follow-up in these patients has proven to be useful in avoiding serious clinical complications.", "contents": "Conduction disturbances in patients with calcified mitral annulus diagnosed by echocardiography. Clinical, radiologic and histo-pathological observations have suggested that conduction disturbances (CD) are frequent in patients with calcified mitral annulus (CMA). To determine the incidence of CD, 65 consecutive patients with CMA were studied. Sixty-five normal individuals, matched for age and sex served as a control group. CMA has been identified by M-mode echocardiography, cross-sectional echo and image amplifier fluoroscopy. CD were present in 23 patients with CMA as compared to seven patients in the control group (p less than 0.01). Three patients developed complete atrioventricular block (4.6%) during hospitalization requiring artificial pacemakers. We conclude that, 1) early detection of CMA in the elderly is useful in predicting a higher incidence of CD. 2) Complete heart block is more frequent in patients with CMA. 3) Frequent ECG follow-up in these patients has proven to be useful in avoiding serious clinical complications.", "PMID": 458282} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13182", "title": "Electrocardiographic QRS changes induced by acute coronary ligation in the isolated rabbit heart.", "content": "The electrical fields associated with augmented R- and decreased S-wave amplitudes during acute, severe myocardial ischemia were studied in fifteen isolated rabbit heart preparations. Hearts were suspended in a spherical tank and perfused with oxygenated electrolyte solution. Electrocardiographic signals were recorded from electrodes on the tank's surface and processed by computerized methods. Fifteen minutes after suture ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, records from electrodes overlying the lesion demonstrated increased R-wave amplitude and ST-segment elevation. Fitting a single moving dipole to pre- and post-ligation potentials demonstrated that the ligation increased the dipolarity of the field and shifted the terminal QRS dipole to a position topographically related to the location of the ischemic lesion. The effects of injury were further assessed by study of fields computed by subtracting control from post-ligation data. This generated a dipolar field at the instant of maximal dipole moment whose strength directly correlated (r=0.74) with the area of non-perfused epicardium, as determined by post-ligation methylene blue infusion. These results suggest that the electrical fields generated during mid to late dipolarization by coronary ligation are qualitatively similar to those generated during repolarization, and may therefore be of similar clinical and/or experimental value.", "contents": "Electrocardiographic QRS changes induced by acute coronary ligation in the isolated rabbit heart. The electrical fields associated with augmented R- and decreased S-wave amplitudes during acute, severe myocardial ischemia were studied in fifteen isolated rabbit heart preparations. Hearts were suspended in a spherical tank and perfused with oxygenated electrolyte solution. Electrocardiographic signals were recorded from electrodes on the tank's surface and processed by computerized methods. Fifteen minutes after suture ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, records from electrodes overlying the lesion demonstrated increased R-wave amplitude and ST-segment elevation. Fitting a single moving dipole to pre- and post-ligation potentials demonstrated that the ligation increased the dipolarity of the field and shifted the terminal QRS dipole to a position topographically related to the location of the ischemic lesion. The effects of injury were further assessed by study of fields computed by subtracting control from post-ligation data. This generated a dipolar field at the instant of maximal dipole moment whose strength directly correlated (r=0.74) with the area of non-perfused epicardium, as determined by post-ligation methylene blue infusion. These results suggest that the electrical fields generated during mid to late dipolarization by coronary ligation are qualitatively similar to those generated during repolarization, and may therefore be of similar clinical and/or experimental value.", "PMID": 458283} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13183", "title": "Effects of stable and changing rates and premature ventricular beats on transient tachycardia-, pseudobradycardia-, and bradycardia-dependent bundle branch block alternans.", "content": "New circumstances under which bundle block (BBB) alternans may appear or disappear are described. 1) Tachycardia-dependent as well as bradycardia-dependent BBB alternans may begin after constant BBB is interrupted by a premature ventricular beat. Tachycardia- and bradycardia- dependence may be differentiated by the shape of the first beat after the pause. 2) When BBB alternans disappears during a constant ventricular rate, tachycardia-dependent BBB alternans changes to persistent normal or more normal intraventricular conduction, whereas bradycardia-dependent BBB alternans changes to a persistently greater degree of BBB. 3) BBB alternans appears to be tachycardia- or pseudobradycardia-dependent in relation to the cycle length and antegrade and retrograde refractory periods in the involved bundle branch. 4) BBB alternans may be recognized during persistent irregular ventricular action in atrial fibrillation. Here the recognition of BBB alternans depends upon the sequence of contours as well as upon the cycle lengths.", "contents": "Effects of stable and changing rates and premature ventricular beats on transient tachycardia-, pseudobradycardia-, and bradycardia-dependent bundle branch block alternans. New circumstances under which bundle block (BBB) alternans may appear or disappear are described. 1) Tachycardia-dependent as well as bradycardia-dependent BBB alternans may begin after constant BBB is interrupted by a premature ventricular beat. Tachycardia- and bradycardia- dependence may be differentiated by the shape of the first beat after the pause. 2) When BBB alternans disappears during a constant ventricular rate, tachycardia-dependent BBB alternans changes to persistent normal or more normal intraventricular conduction, whereas bradycardia-dependent BBB alternans changes to a persistently greater degree of BBB. 3) BBB alternans appears to be tachycardia- or pseudobradycardia-dependent in relation to the cycle length and antegrade and retrograde refractory periods in the involved bundle branch. 4) BBB alternans may be recognized during persistent irregular ventricular action in atrial fibrillation. Here the recognition of BBB alternans depends upon the sequence of contours as well as upon the cycle lengths.", "PMID": 458284} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13184", "title": "Orthogonal electrocardiographic study on progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type.", "content": "An attempt was made to investigate the incidence and significance of high frequency notches and slurs on the QRS complex in patients with progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type (PMD). The patients were classified into eight stages from the most mild, S(1), to the most severe, S(8), according to Swinyard-Deaver's criteria. Cases where the sum of high frequency notches in the combined leads exceeded none were generally limited to those more advanced than stage S(4). Also, the sum of the notch count tended to be higher in S(5) to S(6) than in the remaining groups and to be lower in the milder cases, S(1) to S(4), and most severe cases, S(7) and S(8). It should be emphasized that cases in groups S(7) and S(8) who had a history of congestive heart failure and/or developed congestive heart failure during the observation period, tended to show a smaller number of notches. High frequency slurs showed almost the same tendencies as the high frequency notches. It is thus anticipated that a significant increase or decrease in the number of notches and slurs on the QRS complex may be suggestive of more intense myocardial derangement.", "contents": "Orthogonal electrocardiographic study on progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type. An attempt was made to investigate the incidence and significance of high frequency notches and slurs on the QRS complex in patients with progressive muscular dystrophy of the Duchenne type (PMD). The patients were classified into eight stages from the most mild, S(1), to the most severe, S(8), according to Swinyard-Deaver's criteria. Cases where the sum of high frequency notches in the combined leads exceeded none were generally limited to those more advanced than stage S(4). Also, the sum of the notch count tended to be higher in S(5) to S(6) than in the remaining groups and to be lower in the milder cases, S(1) to S(4), and most severe cases, S(7) and S(8). It should be emphasized that cases in groups S(7) and S(8) who had a history of congestive heart failure and/or developed congestive heart failure during the observation period, tended to show a smaller number of notches. High frequency slurs showed almost the same tendencies as the high frequency notches. It is thus anticipated that a significant increase or decrease in the number of notches and slurs on the QRS complex may be suggestive of more intense myocardial derangement.", "PMID": 458286} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13185", "title": "Predicting coronary artery disease with treadmill stress testing: changes in R-wave amplitude compared with ST segment depression.", "content": "Coronary angiograms and treadmill stress tests were reviewed independently in 108 nonconsecutively selected cases. There were 16 patients (15%) with infarcts on ECG. Changes in R-wave amplitude and ST segments during exercise were evaluated to determine the sensitivity and specificity of each as a predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD). ST segment changes had a sensitivity of 49%, and a specificity of 74%. The sensitivity increased to 55% when infarcts were excluded. R-wave amplitude changes had a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 84%. The sensitivity increased to 78% when infarcts were excluded. An index formed by the sum of the change in R-wave amplitude and the magnitude of ST segment change yielded a sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 78%. The sensitivity increased to 84% when infarcts were excluded. There was no statistical difference between specificities for each criteria. Of those patients with an R-wave amplitude decrease, 69% had no coronary artery atherosclerosis, while 31% had significant lesions. Of those patients with no change or an increase in R-wave amplitude, 83% had coronary artery atherosclerosis, while 17% were normal. Of the 83% with coronary artery atherosclerosis, 81% had two and three vessel disease, while only 19% had single vessel disease. No change or an increase in R-wave amplitude during treadmill stress testing is a more reliable indicator of CAD in our laboratory than ST segment changes.", "contents": "Predicting coronary artery disease with treadmill stress testing: changes in R-wave amplitude compared with ST segment depression. Coronary angiograms and treadmill stress tests were reviewed independently in 108 nonconsecutively selected cases. There were 16 patients (15%) with infarcts on ECG. Changes in R-wave amplitude and ST segments during exercise were evaluated to determine the sensitivity and specificity of each as a predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD). ST segment changes had a sensitivity of 49%, and a specificity of 74%. The sensitivity increased to 55% when infarcts were excluded. R-wave amplitude changes had a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 84%. The sensitivity increased to 78% when infarcts were excluded. An index formed by the sum of the change in R-wave amplitude and the magnitude of ST segment change yielded a sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 78%. The sensitivity increased to 84% when infarcts were excluded. There was no statistical difference between specificities for each criteria. Of those patients with an R-wave amplitude decrease, 69% had no coronary artery atherosclerosis, while 31% had significant lesions. Of those patients with no change or an increase in R-wave amplitude, 83% had coronary artery atherosclerosis, while 17% were normal. Of the 83% with coronary artery atherosclerosis, 81% had two and three vessel disease, while only 19% had single vessel disease. No change or an increase in R-wave amplitude during treadmill stress testing is a more reliable indicator of CAD in our laboratory than ST segment changes.", "PMID": 458288} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13186", "title": "Body surface potential distributions in posterior ventricular pre-excitation.", "content": "Waveform of the QRS complex during ventricular pre-excitation is subject to the influence of both the site of pre-excitation and the time of pre-excitation relative to that of excitation via the normal AV path. This paper reports a case in which lead V1 of the electrocardiogram (ECG) could be altered from an R to an rS pattern by the administration of atropine sulfate. The provable mechanism was that of reduced conduction time in the normal AV path with altered time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation. This mechanism was simulated in experiments on dogs and yielded similar findings. Body surface mapping in both the patient and the dogs provided evidence that pre-excitation could be recognized by that means with varied time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation. It was demonstrated that the QRS complex of right sided precordial leads could be altered from an R to an rS pattern by altering the time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation of the posterior ventricular wall. This alteration was related to the degree to which negative potentials on the anterior chest wall due to right ventricular breakthrough of normal activation developed in relation to the time of pre-excitation.", "contents": "Body surface potential distributions in posterior ventricular pre-excitation. Waveform of the QRS complex during ventricular pre-excitation is subject to the influence of both the site of pre-excitation and the time of pre-excitation relative to that of excitation via the normal AV path. This paper reports a case in which lead V1 of the electrocardiogram (ECG) could be altered from an R to an rS pattern by the administration of atropine sulfate. The provable mechanism was that of reduced conduction time in the normal AV path with altered time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation. This mechanism was simulated in experiments on dogs and yielded similar findings. Body surface mapping in both the patient and the dogs provided evidence that pre-excitation could be recognized by that means with varied time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation. It was demonstrated that the QRS complex of right sided precordial leads could be altered from an R to an rS pattern by altering the time phase of normal excitation and pre-excitation of the posterior ventricular wall. This alteration was related to the degree to which negative potentials on the anterior chest wall due to right ventricular breakthrough of normal activation developed in relation to the time of pre-excitation.", "PMID": 458289} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13187", "title": "A scale for ECG rhythm analysis.", "content": "A simple scale, which allows the ECG reader to assess the regularity of the RR (or PP) interval and to detect the P wave train, has been presented.", "contents": "A scale for ECG rhythm analysis. A simple scale, which allows the ECG reader to assess the regularity of the RR (or PP) interval and to detect the P wave train, has been presented.", "PMID": 458291} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13188", "title": "Multiple mechanisms of tachycardias in a patient with the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.", "content": "In a patient with the Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome we observed atrial fibrillation and three distinct paroxysmal re-entrant tachycardias. Intracardiac electrograms obtained during the tachycardias showed the mechanisms to be A-V nodal, accessory pathway and sinus node re-entry. When P wave morphology, R-P relationship and QRS configuration are considered, it is illustrated how these four tachyarrhythmias may be successfully diagnosed on the surface electrocardiogram. The therapeutic implications of multiple arrhythmias with different mechanisms in the Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome are discussed.", "contents": "Multiple mechanisms of tachycardias in a patient with the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. In a patient with the Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome we observed atrial fibrillation and three distinct paroxysmal re-entrant tachycardias. Intracardiac electrograms obtained during the tachycardias showed the mechanisms to be A-V nodal, accessory pathway and sinus node re-entry. When P wave morphology, R-P relationship and QRS configuration are considered, it is illustrated how these four tachyarrhythmias may be successfully diagnosed on the surface electrocardiogram. The therapeutic implications of multiple arrhythmias with different mechanisms in the Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome are discussed.", "PMID": 458292} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13189", "title": "Ebstein's anomaly in association with anomalous nodoventricular conduction. Pre-operative and intra-operative electrophysiological studies.", "content": "A 13 year old girl with Ebstein's anomaly was investigated for refractory paroxysmal tachycardias and ventricular pre-excitation. Intracardiac electrophysiological studies demonstrated that ventricular pre-excitation was due to conduction in an anomalous nodo-ventricular pathway. Tachycardia occurred as a result of re-entry within the A-V node with pre-excitation during tachycardia due to conduction in the nodo-ventricular pathway. These tachycardias were controlled initially by medical therapy but because of increasing frequency of attacks, occasionally requiring D.C. conversion, further electrophysiological studies and epicardial mapping were undertaken. The epicardial surface of the right ventricle and right atrium were mapped during tachycardia. The results of the studies confirmed that a direct anomalous atrio-ventricular pathway was not present and that re-entrant tachycardia did not involve an accessory pathway of this type. A rapid atrial pacing system was implanted and paroxysmal tachycardias have been successfully controlled.", "contents": "Ebstein's anomaly in association with anomalous nodoventricular conduction. Pre-operative and intra-operative electrophysiological studies. A 13 year old girl with Ebstein's anomaly was investigated for refractory paroxysmal tachycardias and ventricular pre-excitation. Intracardiac electrophysiological studies demonstrated that ventricular pre-excitation was due to conduction in an anomalous nodo-ventricular pathway. Tachycardia occurred as a result of re-entry within the A-V node with pre-excitation during tachycardia due to conduction in the nodo-ventricular pathway. These tachycardias were controlled initially by medical therapy but because of increasing frequency of attacks, occasionally requiring D.C. conversion, further electrophysiological studies and epicardial mapping were undertaken. The epicardial surface of the right ventricle and right atrium were mapped during tachycardia. The results of the studies confirmed that a direct anomalous atrio-ventricular pathway was not present and that re-entrant tachycardia did not involve an accessory pathway of this type. A rapid atrial pacing system was implanted and paroxysmal tachycardias have been successfully controlled.", "PMID": 458293} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13190", "title": "Plasma testosterone levels in intact and hemicastrated growing cockerels.", "content": "Changes in the levels of testosterone in plasma were measured by radioimmunoassay in blood samples taken at frequent intervals between 2 and 26 weeks of age from entire cockerels and cockerels hemicastrated before 2 weeks of age. In both groups the pattern of testosterone secretion could be divided into three clearly defined phases. In young birds, the levels of testosterone in plasma were low (0.3 ng/ml) but in the prepubertal period, at 11 weeks of age, they started to rise and continued to rise until 22 weeks of age when adult levels, which fluctuated between 2.5 and 3.5 ng/ml, were reached. In the immediate period after hemicastration, the concentration of testosterone decreased temporarily. From 11 weeks of age the levels of testosterone in the hemicastrated birds were approximately 75% of those in intact birds. These results are discussed in relation to the compensatory testicular hypertrophy which occurs in growing cockerels hemicastrated at an early age.", "contents": "Plasma testosterone levels in intact and hemicastrated growing cockerels. Changes in the levels of testosterone in plasma were measured by radioimmunoassay in blood samples taken at frequent intervals between 2 and 26 weeks of age from entire cockerels and cockerels hemicastrated before 2 weeks of age. In both groups the pattern of testosterone secretion could be divided into three clearly defined phases. In young birds, the levels of testosterone in plasma were low (0.3 ng/ml) but in the prepubertal period, at 11 weeks of age, they started to rise and continued to rise until 22 weeks of age when adult levels, which fluctuated between 2.5 and 3.5 ng/ml, were reached. In the immediate period after hemicastration, the concentration of testosterone decreased temporarily. From 11 weeks of age the levels of testosterone in the hemicastrated birds were approximately 75% of those in intact birds. These results are discussed in relation to the compensatory testicular hypertrophy which occurs in growing cockerels hemicastrated at an early age.", "PMID": 458344} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13191", "title": "Inhibition of steroid 5 alpha-reductase in vivo: effect on suppression of luteinizing hormone and stimulation of accessory sex organs by testosterone in the orchidectomized rat.", "content": "An inhibitor of 5 alpha-reductase, the 17 beta-carboxylic acid derivative of testosterone (testosterone-17 beta CA), has been used to evaluate the importance of the 5 alpha-reduction of testosterone in its action on the suppression of LH secretion in male rats. The potential of testosterone-17 beta CA to inhibit the formation of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was first demonstrated in vitro. When homogenates of hypothalami or anterior pituitary glands were incubated with [3H]Testosterone in the presence of a 50-fold excess of testosterone-17 beta CA, the formation of labelled DHT was inhibited by more than 80%. Adult male rats that had been castrated for 1-2 months were fitted with chronic intravenous catheters and implanted with silicone elastomer sheets: one group received one sheet, 0.5-2.0 cm2 in size containing 1.6% testosterone, a second group received one 50 cm2 sheet containing 1.6% testosterone-17 beta CA and a third group received two sheets, one sheet 50 cm2 in size containing 1.6% testosterone-17 beta CA and the second ranging in size from 0.5 to 2.0 cm2 and containing 1.6% testosterone. Blood was withdrawn daily from each rat over a 4-5 day period after implantation of the steroids and the level of LH in the plasma was measured by radioimmunoassay. The seminal vesicles and the ventral prostate gland were removed at autopsy on day 4 or 5; the weights of these organs were shown to have increased progressively as the size of the implant of testosterone increased. In contrast, the level of LH in the plasma was suppressed to a comparable extent by implants of testosterone between 0.6 and 2 cm2, whereas a 0.5 cm2 implant of testosterone had no effect. Implants of testosterone-17 beta CA alone did not influence the weight of the accessory organs or the level of LH. When testosterone-17 beta CA and testosterone were implanted together, the growth-promoting effect of the latter on the accessory sex organs was significantly reduced. The effectiveness of testosterone in suppressing the level of LH in the plasma of these animals was not influenced by the presence of testosterone-17 beta CA and in certain instances the level was raised.", "contents": "Inhibition of steroid 5 alpha-reductase in vivo: effect on suppression of luteinizing hormone and stimulation of accessory sex organs by testosterone in the orchidectomized rat. An inhibitor of 5 alpha-reductase, the 17 beta-carboxylic acid derivative of testosterone (testosterone-17 beta CA), has been used to evaluate the importance of the 5 alpha-reduction of testosterone in its action on the suppression of LH secretion in male rats. The potential of testosterone-17 beta CA to inhibit the formation of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was first demonstrated in vitro. When homogenates of hypothalami or anterior pituitary glands were incubated with [3H]Testosterone in the presence of a 50-fold excess of testosterone-17 beta CA, the formation of labelled DHT was inhibited by more than 80%. Adult male rats that had been castrated for 1-2 months were fitted with chronic intravenous catheters and implanted with silicone elastomer sheets: one group received one sheet, 0.5-2.0 cm2 in size containing 1.6% testosterone, a second group received one 50 cm2 sheet containing 1.6% testosterone-17 beta CA and a third group received two sheets, one sheet 50 cm2 in size containing 1.6% testosterone-17 beta CA and the second ranging in size from 0.5 to 2.0 cm2 and containing 1.6% testosterone. Blood was withdrawn daily from each rat over a 4-5 day period after implantation of the steroids and the level of LH in the plasma was measured by radioimmunoassay. The seminal vesicles and the ventral prostate gland were removed at autopsy on day 4 or 5; the weights of these organs were shown to have increased progressively as the size of the implant of testosterone increased. In contrast, the level of LH in the plasma was suppressed to a comparable extent by implants of testosterone between 0.6 and 2 cm2, whereas a 0.5 cm2 implant of testosterone had no effect. Implants of testosterone-17 beta CA alone did not influence the weight of the accessory organs or the level of LH. When testosterone-17 beta CA and testosterone were implanted together, the growth-promoting effect of the latter on the accessory sex organs was significantly reduced. The effectiveness of testosterone in suppressing the level of LH in the plasma of these animals was not influenced by the presence of testosterone-17 beta CA and in certain instances the level was raised.", "PMID": 458345} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13192", "title": "Production of erythropoietic colony-forming units and erythrocytes during chick embryo development: an attempt at modelization of chick embryo erythropoiesis.", "content": "The enumeration of erythropoietic colony-forming cells in vitro has allowed us to complete previous data on changes in the various erythroid cell populations during chick embryo-genesis. Erythrocytic colony-forming units in culture (CFU-cE) which are sensitive to avian erythropoietin appear in the blastoderm as soon as the 24th hour of development. They represent most likely precursors of the megalocytic erythropoiesis, and do not seem to derive from stem cells common with normocytic erythropoiesis. Data concerning vitelline normocytic erythropoiesis were analysed in a kinetic model based on stochastic change of the stem cells. From this model it appears that 17-20 cell divisions are required for differentiation of erythrocytes from stem cells.", "contents": "Production of erythropoietic colony-forming units and erythrocytes during chick embryo development: an attempt at modelization of chick embryo erythropoiesis. The enumeration of erythropoietic colony-forming cells in vitro has allowed us to complete previous data on changes in the various erythroid cell populations during chick embryo-genesis. Erythrocytic colony-forming units in culture (CFU-cE) which are sensitive to avian erythropoietin appear in the blastoderm as soon as the 24th hour of development. They represent most likely precursors of the megalocytic erythropoiesis, and do not seem to derive from stem cells common with normocytic erythropoiesis. Data concerning vitelline normocytic erythropoiesis were analysed in a kinetic model based on stochastic change of the stem cells. From this model it appears that 17-20 cell divisions are required for differentiation of erythrocytes from stem cells.", "PMID": 458348} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13193", "title": "Anomalous ipsilateral optic fibre projection in Xenopus induced by larval tectal ablation.", "content": "Unilateral left tectal ablation was carried out in Xenopus between stage 48 and 1 month after metamorphosis. Six to 12 weeks after metamorphosis the retinal projection from the right eye was examined with the use of [3H]proline autoradiography. The autoradiographs indicated that optic fibres whose tectal target was destroyed recrossed to the ipsilateral tectum and basal optic nucleus via the posterior and pretectal commissures. No anomalous recrossing occurred if the tectal ablation was carried out at stage 58 or later. The aberrant optic fibres were restricted to the rostrolateral and central parts of the ipsilateral tectum and they terminated in a discontinuous manner. It is concluded that available surfaces serving as contact guidance cues are needed to direct aberrant optic fibres to the ipsilateral tectum.", "contents": "Anomalous ipsilateral optic fibre projection in Xenopus induced by larval tectal ablation. Unilateral left tectal ablation was carried out in Xenopus between stage 48 and 1 month after metamorphosis. Six to 12 weeks after metamorphosis the retinal projection from the right eye was examined with the use of [3H]proline autoradiography. The autoradiographs indicated that optic fibres whose tectal target was destroyed recrossed to the ipsilateral tectum and basal optic nucleus via the posterior and pretectal commissures. No anomalous recrossing occurred if the tectal ablation was carried out at stage 58 or later. The aberrant optic fibres were restricted to the rostrolateral and central parts of the ipsilateral tectum and they terminated in a discontinuous manner. It is concluded that available surfaces serving as contact guidance cues are needed to direct aberrant optic fibres to the ipsilateral tectum.", "PMID": 458349} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13194", "title": "The cellular effect of 5-bromodeoxyuridine on the mammalian embryo.", "content": "It is well known that 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BUdR) when injected into pregnant animals may cause exencephaly, cleft palate, and limb abnormalities. Similarly, it is well established that the drug when added to a culture medium may prevent differentiation of embryonic cell systems without affecting cell division or cell viability. The goal of our experiments was to examine whether the congenital malformations resulting from BUdR treatment were due to lack of differentiation of certain cell lines or were due to other mechanisms. The effects of BUdR on proliferating and differentiating cells in the 12-day mouse embryo were therefore examined and special attention was given to the proliferating cells of the rhombic lip which give rise to the Purkinje cells. When the embryos were treated with BUdR the mitotic index of the neuroepithelium of the rhombic lip doubled in value 3 h after treatment and remained high until 24 h later. By using the colchicine index it was calculated that the mitotic duration in the BUdR-treated embryos lasted at least 2 h and that in the control embryos less than 1 h. When the cell generation time in the BUdR treated animals was calculated the length of the S-phase was increased by about 50%. It was thus concluded that BUdR caused an increase in the duration of the S-phase and mitosis, together making the cell cycle 5 h longer than normal. Eighteen hours after treatment many neuroepithelial cells became degenerative. By radioautography it was demonstrated that the degenerating cells were in their second DNA-synthetic phase following BUdR injection and that cells which incorporated BUdR and were differentiating into neurons were not affected. By injecting [3H]BUdR it was found that many cells which incorporated the analogue were able to leave the proliferative population after their first cell division. They migrated to the periphery where they developed into apparently normal Purkinje cells. The additive effects of cell death and retardation of the cell cycle caused a 15% deficit of Purkinje cells in the postnatal cerebellum but the BUdR did not interfere with their differentiation. Thus, contrary to the BUdR effect on cultures of embryonic cells, in vivo the drug causes cell death and a delay in the cell cycle time. Our experiments therefore seem to indicate that the congenital malformations caused by BUdR in the mammalian embryo are caused by cell death and growth retardation rather than by interference with the process of differentiation.", "contents": "The cellular effect of 5-bromodeoxyuridine on the mammalian embryo. It is well known that 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BUdR) when injected into pregnant animals may cause exencephaly, cleft palate, and limb abnormalities. Similarly, it is well established that the drug when added to a culture medium may prevent differentiation of embryonic cell systems without affecting cell division or cell viability. The goal of our experiments was to examine whether the congenital malformations resulting from BUdR treatment were due to lack of differentiation of certain cell lines or were due to other mechanisms. The effects of BUdR on proliferating and differentiating cells in the 12-day mouse embryo were therefore examined and special attention was given to the proliferating cells of the rhombic lip which give rise to the Purkinje cells. When the embryos were treated with BUdR the mitotic index of the neuroepithelium of the rhombic lip doubled in value 3 h after treatment and remained high until 24 h later. By using the colchicine index it was calculated that the mitotic duration in the BUdR-treated embryos lasted at least 2 h and that in the control embryos less than 1 h. When the cell generation time in the BUdR treated animals was calculated the length of the S-phase was increased by about 50%. It was thus concluded that BUdR caused an increase in the duration of the S-phase and mitosis, together making the cell cycle 5 h longer than normal. Eighteen hours after treatment many neuroepithelial cells became degenerative. By radioautography it was demonstrated that the degenerating cells were in their second DNA-synthetic phase following BUdR injection and that cells which incorporated BUdR and were differentiating into neurons were not affected. By injecting [3H]BUdR it was found that many cells which incorporated the analogue were able to leave the proliferative population after their first cell division. They migrated to the periphery where they developed into apparently normal Purkinje cells. The additive effects of cell death and retardation of the cell cycle caused a 15% deficit of Purkinje cells in the postnatal cerebellum but the BUdR did not interfere with their differentiation. Thus, contrary to the BUdR effect on cultures of embryonic cells, in vivo the drug causes cell death and a delay in the cell cycle time. Our experiments therefore seem to indicate that the congenital malformations caused by BUdR in the mammalian embryo are caused by cell death and growth retardation rather than by interference with the process of differentiation.", "PMID": 458350} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13195", "title": "Autoradiographic study of macromolecular synthesis in the fusion epithelium of the developing rat primary palate in vitro.", "content": "The facial processes involved in primary palate formation undergo epithelial fusion in a manner morphologically analogous to that observed during secondary palate formation. We have used whole embryo culture to analyze the synthesis of macromolecules (DNA, protein glycoprotein) in the primary palate, based on the incorporation of various labeled precursors. The results of this study demonstrate that changes in the synthesis of macromolecules occur during the fusion of the facial processes, which resemble those previously reported to occur during secondary palate development. These changes include cessation of DNA synthesis in cells in a restricted zone of the epithelium, concomitant with maintenance of glycoprotein synthesis. These findings indicate that the molecular events underlying the development of the primary and secondary palate may be similar.", "contents": "Autoradiographic study of macromolecular synthesis in the fusion epithelium of the developing rat primary palate in vitro. The facial processes involved in primary palate formation undergo epithelial fusion in a manner morphologically analogous to that observed during secondary palate formation. We have used whole embryo culture to analyze the synthesis of macromolecules (DNA, protein glycoprotein) in the primary palate, based on the incorporation of various labeled precursors. The results of this study demonstrate that changes in the synthesis of macromolecules occur during the fusion of the facial processes, which resemble those previously reported to occur during secondary palate development. These changes include cessation of DNA synthesis in cells in a restricted zone of the epithelium, concomitant with maintenance of glycoprotein synthesis. These findings indicate that the molecular events underlying the development of the primary and secondary palate may be similar.", "PMID": 458351} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13196", "title": "Waves propagated during vertebrate development: observations and comments.", "content": "The status and possible roles of propagated waves occurring during vertebrate embryogenesis are discussed. Some preliminary data for waves observed in time-lapse films of early chick (Gallus domesticus) and Medaka (Oryzias latipes, a teleost) are given. The general similarities between these phenomena and wave propagation during cellular slime mold aggregation are pointed out and it is suggested that the control of development by propagated waves in regulative embryos is not only widespread but also depends on a common cellular mechanism.", "contents": "Waves propagated during vertebrate development: observations and comments. The status and possible roles of propagated waves occurring during vertebrate embryogenesis are discussed. Some preliminary data for waves observed in time-lapse films of early chick (Gallus domesticus) and Medaka (Oryzias latipes, a teleost) are given. The general similarities between these phenomena and wave propagation during cellular slime mold aggregation are pointed out and it is suggested that the control of development by propagated waves in regulative embryos is not only widespread but also depends on a common cellular mechanism.", "PMID": 458352} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13197", "title": "Neurotrophic and x-ray blocks in the blastemal cell cycle.", "content": "Using microdensitometry techniques the points in the cycle where blastemal cells become blocked after X-irradiation or denervation of the regenerating amphibian limb have been identified. X-irradiation blocks the cells in both G1 and G2 and those cells that were in S at the time of irradiation presumably proceed to G2. After denervation, however, cells accumulate only in G1 and those that were in S or G2 continue through the cycle to the next G1. The latter results are clearly contradictory to a recent theory proposing a G2 neurotrophic control of blastemal cells and a solution to the contradiction is presented in the light of recent results.", "contents": "Neurotrophic and x-ray blocks in the blastemal cell cycle. Using microdensitometry techniques the points in the cycle where blastemal cells become blocked after X-irradiation or denervation of the regenerating amphibian limb have been identified. X-irradiation blocks the cells in both G1 and G2 and those cells that were in S at the time of irradiation presumably proceed to G2. After denervation, however, cells accumulate only in G1 and those that were in S or G2 continue through the cycle to the next G1. The latter results are clearly contradictory to a recent theory proposing a G2 neurotrophic control of blastemal cells and a solution to the contradiction is presented in the light of recent results.", "PMID": 458353} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13198", "title": "The effect of cell killing by x-irradiation on pattern formation in the chick limb.", "content": "It has been suggested that positional information along the proximo-distal axis of the limb-bud is specified by time spent in the progress zone. Mesenchyme cells have been killed by X-irradiation, reducing the rate cells leave the zone. The time spent there by some cells is thus increased. When limbs, stage 18/19, stage 21, or tips of stage 24, are treated with increasing doses of X-irradiation, from 1000 rads to 2500 rads proximal structures are progressively lost, whereas distal ones--the digits--are relatively unaffected. There was no evidence for intercalation of missing parts. These effects are due to killing or damage of mesenchyme cells: the ectoderm is not affected at these doses. The results are consistent with a quantitative analysis based on the progress zone model, in which viable cells repopulate the progress zone and gradually restore it to normal as non-dividing cells are diluted out. It is suggested that any treatment causing damage to the mesenchyme at early stages will give similar results. The mesenchyme cells appear to be surprisingly resistant to radiation damage. The form of the limb-bud is not altered by damaging the mesenchyme. Differences in the development of structures at similar proximo-distal levels, following irradiation, is considered in terms of the requirement of a threshold number of cells.", "contents": "The effect of cell killing by x-irradiation on pattern formation in the chick limb. It has been suggested that positional information along the proximo-distal axis of the limb-bud is specified by time spent in the progress zone. Mesenchyme cells have been killed by X-irradiation, reducing the rate cells leave the zone. The time spent there by some cells is thus increased. When limbs, stage 18/19, stage 21, or tips of stage 24, are treated with increasing doses of X-irradiation, from 1000 rads to 2500 rads proximal structures are progressively lost, whereas distal ones--the digits--are relatively unaffected. There was no evidence for intercalation of missing parts. These effects are due to killing or damage of mesenchyme cells: the ectoderm is not affected at these doses. The results are consistent with a quantitative analysis based on the progress zone model, in which viable cells repopulate the progress zone and gradually restore it to normal as non-dividing cells are diluted out. It is suggested that any treatment causing damage to the mesenchyme at early stages will give similar results. The mesenchyme cells appear to be surprisingly resistant to radiation damage. The form of the limb-bud is not altered by damaging the mesenchyme. Differences in the development of structures at similar proximo-distal levels, following irradiation, is considered in terms of the requirement of a threshold number of cells.", "PMID": 458354} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13199", "title": "The central pathways of optic fibres in Xenopus tadpoles.", "content": "A cobalt chloride impregnation technique was applied to the optic nerve in Xenopus tadpoles and the central optic pathways were examined in cleared, whole-mounted preparations, and in thick sections. The overall plan of the optic input was visualized in relation to the outlines of the parts of the brain and details of the structure of the tectal optic neuropil, the neuropil of Bellonci and the basal optic neuropil were seen. The fibres in the main retinotectal tract maintained an orderly disposition with respect to each other, in contrast to the fibres of the basal optic tract, in which no order was apparent. Optic fibres were seen passing caudally from the region of the basal optic neuropil.", "contents": "The central pathways of optic fibres in Xenopus tadpoles. A cobalt chloride impregnation technique was applied to the optic nerve in Xenopus tadpoles and the central optic pathways were examined in cleared, whole-mounted preparations, and in thick sections. The overall plan of the optic input was visualized in relation to the outlines of the parts of the brain and details of the structure of the tectal optic neuropil, the neuropil of Bellonci and the basal optic neuropil were seen. The fibres in the main retinotectal tract maintained an orderly disposition with respect to each other, in contrast to the fibres of the basal optic tract, in which no order was apparent. Optic fibres were seen passing caudally from the region of the basal optic neuropil.", "PMID": 458356} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13200", "title": "Effect of the T-mutation on histogenesis of the mouse embryo under the testis capsule.", "content": "Mouse embryos homozygous for the T-mutation show abnormalities, severer at the posterior embryonic regions, by day 9 of gestation and die before day 11 in utero. To analyse development potentially of the T/T embryos fragments of their anterior and posterior portions were grafted into the testes of adult T/+ mice, and examined histologically for the tissues formed after 1 month. The grafted tissues of the T/T embryos grew beyond the destined lethal stage and gave rise to benign teratomas composed of mature tissues. Although there were some different features of the tissues formed in the teratomas derived from different portions and stages of the embryos, their types were essentially identical between wild-type and the mutant teratomas. Statistical analysis showed that frequency of the cartilage and/or bone formation was significantly lower in the posterior mutant teratomas. It cannot be concluded, however, that this difference is essentially caused by T-mutation. The main conclusion of present experiments is that grafted portions of T/T embryos have the potentiality to develop into teratomas containing derivatives of all three germ layers.", "contents": "Effect of the T-mutation on histogenesis of the mouse embryo under the testis capsule. Mouse embryos homozygous for the T-mutation show abnormalities, severer at the posterior embryonic regions, by day 9 of gestation and die before day 11 in utero. To analyse development potentially of the T/T embryos fragments of their anterior and posterior portions were grafted into the testes of adult T/+ mice, and examined histologically for the tissues formed after 1 month. The grafted tissues of the T/T embryos grew beyond the destined lethal stage and gave rise to benign teratomas composed of mature tissues. Although there were some different features of the tissues formed in the teratomas derived from different portions and stages of the embryos, their types were essentially identical between wild-type and the mutant teratomas. Statistical analysis showed that frequency of the cartilage and/or bone formation was significantly lower in the posterior mutant teratomas. It cannot be concluded, however, that this difference is essentially caused by T-mutation. The main conclusion of present experiments is that grafted portions of T/T embryos have the potentiality to develop into teratomas containing derivatives of all three germ layers.", "PMID": 458357} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13201", "title": "The zone of polarizing activity: evidence for a role in normal chick limb morphogenesis.", "content": "When an impermeable barrier is placed so as to divide the early chick limb-bud into anterior and posterior parts then development continues only on one side of the barrier. The detailed results are inconsistent with mosaic development. They can readily be explained by supposing that pattern is specified by the concentration of a diffusible morphogen controlled by the zone of polarizing activity. A simulation of appropriate concentration profiles is presented and its relevance to similar experiments published elswhere is discussed. It seems probable that the zone of polarizing activity is active during normal development.", "contents": "The zone of polarizing activity: evidence for a role in normal chick limb morphogenesis. When an impermeable barrier is placed so as to divide the early chick limb-bud into anterior and posterior parts then development continues only on one side of the barrier. The detailed results are inconsistent with mosaic development. They can readily be explained by supposing that pattern is specified by the concentration of a diffusible morphogen controlled by the zone of polarizing activity. A simulation of appropriate concentration profiles is presented and its relevance to similar experiments published elswhere is discussed. It seems probable that the zone of polarizing activity is active during normal development.", "PMID": 458358} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13202", "title": "The role of irradiated tissue during pattern formation in the regenerating limb.", "content": "The amphibian limb regeneration blastema is used here to examine whether irradiated, non-dividing tissue can participate in the development of new pattern of morphogenesis. Irradiated blastemas were rotated 180 degrees on normal stumps and normal blastemas rotated on irradiated stumps. In both cases supernumerary elements developed from the unirradiated tissue. The supernumeraries were defective but this did not seem to be due to a lack of tissue. Rather it suggested that this could be a realization of compartments in vertebrate development or simply reflect the limited regulative ability of the blastema. The results are also discussed in relation to a recent model of pattern formation.", "contents": "The role of irradiated tissue during pattern formation in the regenerating limb. The amphibian limb regeneration blastema is used here to examine whether irradiated, non-dividing tissue can participate in the development of new pattern of morphogenesis. Irradiated blastemas were rotated 180 degrees on normal stumps and normal blastemas rotated on irradiated stumps. In both cases supernumerary elements developed from the unirradiated tissue. The supernumeraries were defective but this did not seem to be due to a lack of tissue. Rather it suggested that this could be a realization of compartments in vertebrate development or simply reflect the limited regulative ability of the blastema. The results are also discussed in relation to a recent model of pattern formation.", "PMID": 458359} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13203", "title": "Selection of appropriate medial branch of the optic tract by fibres of ventral retinal origin during development and in regeneration: an autoradiographic study in Xenopus.", "content": "The formation of the branches of the optic tract has been studied with the use of [3H]proline autoradiography, during development and during regeneration of the optic nerve in Xenopus with one compound ventral (VV) eye made by the embryonic fusion of two ventral eye fragments. The formation of the optic pathway was abnormal in that the lateral branch failed to develop, suggesting that fibres from a VV retina selectively entered the tectum via the medial branch during development. Three months after section of the optic nerve of a VV eye, regenerated fibres were present both in the contralateral and ipsilateral tecta. On the ipsilateral side regenerated fibres entered the tectum via the medial branch only. Retinal fibres entered the contralateral tectum through both branches in some animals and through the medial branch only in others. It is concluded that mechanical factors alone are insufficient to explain the phenomenon of selection of the appropriate medial branch by fibres of ventral retinal origin either during development or in regeneration. Some form of fibre-substrate interaction seems to be necessary; and this ability of fibres from a VV eye to take the path appropriate for ventral retina argues strongly that the VV eye is not a regulated system in terms of cell specificities.", "contents": "Selection of appropriate medial branch of the optic tract by fibres of ventral retinal origin during development and in regeneration: an autoradiographic study in Xenopus. The formation of the branches of the optic tract has been studied with the use of [3H]proline autoradiography, during development and during regeneration of the optic nerve in Xenopus with one compound ventral (VV) eye made by the embryonic fusion of two ventral eye fragments. The formation of the optic pathway was abnormal in that the lateral branch failed to develop, suggesting that fibres from a VV retina selectively entered the tectum via the medial branch during development. Three months after section of the optic nerve of a VV eye, regenerated fibres were present both in the contralateral and ipsilateral tecta. On the ipsilateral side regenerated fibres entered the tectum via the medial branch only. Retinal fibres entered the contralateral tectum through both branches in some animals and through the medial branch only in others. It is concluded that mechanical factors alone are insufficient to explain the phenomenon of selection of the appropriate medial branch by fibres of ventral retinal origin either during development or in regeneration. Some form of fibre-substrate interaction seems to be necessary; and this ability of fibres from a VV eye to take the path appropriate for ventral retina argues strongly that the VV eye is not a regulated system in terms of cell specificities.", "PMID": 458360} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13204", "title": "Differentiation capacity of unincubated chick blastoderm in culture.", "content": "Unincubated (stage X) chick blastoderms cultured in plain Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium in the absence of serum, synthesize haemoglobin and melanin 2 . 5--3 . 0 and 6 . 0--7 . 0 days, respectively, after the beginning of culture. The capacity of unincubated blastoderm to form haemoglobin and melanin is a response to intrinsic genotypic instructions rather than to the active intervention of substances continuously supplied by the yolk. 5-Bromodeoxyridine, applied during the first and second days of unincubated blastoderm in culture, is incorporated into DNA and perturbs the formation of haemoglobin and melanin, perhaps, by modifying gene expression.", "contents": "Differentiation capacity of unincubated chick blastoderm in culture. Unincubated (stage X) chick blastoderms cultured in plain Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium in the absence of serum, synthesize haemoglobin and melanin 2 . 5--3 . 0 and 6 . 0--7 . 0 days, respectively, after the beginning of culture. The capacity of unincubated blastoderm to form haemoglobin and melanin is a response to intrinsic genotypic instructions rather than to the active intervention of substances continuously supplied by the yolk. 5-Bromodeoxyridine, applied during the first and second days of unincubated blastoderm in culture, is incorporated into DNA and perturbs the formation of haemoglobin and melanin, perhaps, by modifying gene expression.", "PMID": 458361} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13205", "title": "The ontogeny of erythropoiesis in the mouse detected by the erythroid colony-forming technique. I. Hepatic and maternal erythropoiesis.", "content": "Employing the erythroid colony-forming technique, it is shown that throughout hepatic erythropoiesis in the mouse, the CFU-E population remains sensitive to erythropoietin. Maximum stimulation was achieved during this period using an erythropoietin concentration of 0.075 units/ml. The peak in the CFU-E concentration occurs between the 11th and 12th day while absolute values show a maximum on the 14th day of gestation. These results are discussed in terms of changing cell populations, both of erythropoietic precursors and hepatocytes from which it is concluded that at no time during foetal erythropoiesis does the CFU-E population change or become unresponsive to erythropoietin. The BFU-E population follows closely that of the CFU-E, but declines about 24 h earlier on the 16th day of gestation. The effect of the foetus on the mother was also studied during the second half of pregnancy. During this period of natural perturbation both femoral and, in particular, splenic erythropoiesis are increased. However, during this time an erythropoietin concentration of 0.3 units/ml was required to maximally stimulate the CFU-E population derived from these tissues. The fact that both adult and foetal erythroid tissue maintain a rather constant requirement for erythropoietin for their growth in vitro, indicates that it is an intrinsic property of the cells. It is concluded that increased maternal erythropoiesis is due to an increased oxygen requirement causing hypoxia due to the growing foetus.", "contents": "The ontogeny of erythropoiesis in the mouse detected by the erythroid colony-forming technique. I. Hepatic and maternal erythropoiesis. Employing the erythroid colony-forming technique, it is shown that throughout hepatic erythropoiesis in the mouse, the CFU-E population remains sensitive to erythropoietin. Maximum stimulation was achieved during this period using an erythropoietin concentration of 0.075 units/ml. The peak in the CFU-E concentration occurs between the 11th and 12th day while absolute values show a maximum on the 14th day of gestation. These results are discussed in terms of changing cell populations, both of erythropoietic precursors and hepatocytes from which it is concluded that at no time during foetal erythropoiesis does the CFU-E population change or become unresponsive to erythropoietin. The BFU-E population follows closely that of the CFU-E, but declines about 24 h earlier on the 16th day of gestation. The effect of the foetus on the mother was also studied during the second half of pregnancy. During this period of natural perturbation both femoral and, in particular, splenic erythropoiesis are increased. However, during this time an erythropoietin concentration of 0.3 units/ml was required to maximally stimulate the CFU-E population derived from these tissues. The fact that both adult and foetal erythroid tissue maintain a rather constant requirement for erythropoietin for their growth in vitro, indicates that it is an intrinsic property of the cells. It is concluded that increased maternal erythropoiesis is due to an increased oxygen requirement causing hypoxia due to the growing foetus.", "PMID": 458362} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13206", "title": "In vitro studies on the morphogenesis and differentiation of the mesoderm subjacent to the apical ectodermal ridge of the embryonic chick limb-bud.", "content": "It has been suggested that one of the major functions of the apical ectodermal ridge (AER) of the embryonic chick limb-bud is to maintain mesenchymal cells directly subjacent to it (i.e. cells extending 0.4-- 0.5 mm from the AER) in a labile, undifferentiated condition. We have attempted to directly test this hypothesis by subjecting the undiffertiated subridge mesoderm of stage-25 embryonic chick wing-buds to organ culture in the presence and absence of the AER and the ectoderm that normally surrounds the mesoderm dorsally and ventrally. During the period of culture, control explants comprised of the subridge mesoderm capped by the AER and surrounded by the dorsal/ventral ectoderm undergo progressive morphogenesis characterized by polarized proximal to distal outgrowth and changes in the contour of the developing explant, and ultimately form a structure grossly resembling a normal distal wing-bud tip. In contrast, explants from which the AER and dorsal/ventral ectoderm have been removed (minus ectoderm explants) or from which just the AER has been removed (minus AER explants) form compact, rounded masses exhibiting no signs of morphogenesis. During the polarized proximal to distal outgrowth control explants undergo during the first 3 days of culture, as cells of the explant become located greater than 0.4--0.5 mm from the AER, they concomitantly undergo a sequence of changes indicative of their differentiation into cartilage. However, those cells which remain 0.4--0.5 mm from the AER during this period retain the characteristics of non-specialized mesenchymal cells. In marked contrast to control explants, virtually all of the cells of minus ectoderm explants initiate chondrogenic differentiation during the first day of culture. Cells comprising the central core of minus AER explants also initiate chondrogenic differentiation during the first day of culture, but in contrast to minus ecotderm explants, non-chondrogenic tissue types form along the periphery of the explants subjacent to the dorsal/ventral ectoderm. These results indicate that the AER maintains cells directly subjacent to it in a labile, undifferentiated condition, and that when mesenchymal cells are freed from the AER's influence either artificially or as a result of normal polarized outgrowth, they are freed to commence cytodifferentiation. The results further suggest that the dorsal/ventral ectoderm may have an influence on the differentiation of the mesenchymal cells directly subjacent to it, once the cells have been removed from the influence of the AER.", "contents": "In vitro studies on the morphogenesis and differentiation of the mesoderm subjacent to the apical ectodermal ridge of the embryonic chick limb-bud. It has been suggested that one of the major functions of the apical ectodermal ridge (AER) of the embryonic chick limb-bud is to maintain mesenchymal cells directly subjacent to it (i.e. cells extending 0.4-- 0.5 mm from the AER) in a labile, undifferentiated condition. We have attempted to directly test this hypothesis by subjecting the undiffertiated subridge mesoderm of stage-25 embryonic chick wing-buds to organ culture in the presence and absence of the AER and the ectoderm that normally surrounds the mesoderm dorsally and ventrally. During the period of culture, control explants comprised of the subridge mesoderm capped by the AER and surrounded by the dorsal/ventral ectoderm undergo progressive morphogenesis characterized by polarized proximal to distal outgrowth and changes in the contour of the developing explant, and ultimately form a structure grossly resembling a normal distal wing-bud tip. In contrast, explants from which the AER and dorsal/ventral ectoderm have been removed (minus ectoderm explants) or from which just the AER has been removed (minus AER explants) form compact, rounded masses exhibiting no signs of morphogenesis. During the polarized proximal to distal outgrowth control explants undergo during the first 3 days of culture, as cells of the explant become located greater than 0.4--0.5 mm from the AER, they concomitantly undergo a sequence of changes indicative of their differentiation into cartilage. However, those cells which remain 0.4--0.5 mm from the AER during this period retain the characteristics of non-specialized mesenchymal cells. In marked contrast to control explants, virtually all of the cells of minus ectoderm explants initiate chondrogenic differentiation during the first day of culture. Cells comprising the central core of minus AER explants also initiate chondrogenic differentiation during the first day of culture, but in contrast to minus ecotderm explants, non-chondrogenic tissue types form along the periphery of the explants subjacent to the dorsal/ventral ectoderm. These results indicate that the AER maintains cells directly subjacent to it in a labile, undifferentiated condition, and that when mesenchymal cells are freed from the AER's influence either artificially or as a result of normal polarized outgrowth, they are freed to commence cytodifferentiation. The results further suggest that the dorsal/ventral ectoderm may have an influence on the differentiation of the mesenchymal cells directly subjacent to it, once the cells have been removed from the influence of the AER.", "PMID": 458363} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13207", "title": "Inhibition of tooth germ differentiation in vitro by diazo-oxo-norleucine (DON).", "content": "Molar tooth germs from mouse embryos were studied in a Trowell-type organ culture. After 5 days of culture the odontoblasts had secreted predentine and the ameloblasts had differentiated. When cultured in the presence of 10-50 micro M diazo-oxo-norleucine (DON), which is a glutamine analogue, the differentiation of odontoblasts was inhibited, but the teeth looked otherwise healthy. When DON was added after 2 days of culture in control medium (at this time the odontoblasts in the cuspal area were already differentiated), it did not inhibit predentine secretion, ameloblast differentiation, nor enamel secretion. However, this was seen only in the cuspal area and the boundary to the undifferentiated, more cervical cells was distinct. The results support the concept that the mechanism of the differentiation of odontoblasts is different from that of the ameloblasts. We have shown earlier that a close association between the basement membrane and the mesenchymal cells is required for odontoblast differentiation. Because DON interferes with glycosaminoglycan and glycoprotein synthesis we suggest that DON inhibits odontoblast differentiation by affecting the mesenchymal cell surface and/or the basement membrane.", "contents": "Inhibition of tooth germ differentiation in vitro by diazo-oxo-norleucine (DON). Molar tooth germs from mouse embryos were studied in a Trowell-type organ culture. After 5 days of culture the odontoblasts had secreted predentine and the ameloblasts had differentiated. When cultured in the presence of 10-50 micro M diazo-oxo-norleucine (DON), which is a glutamine analogue, the differentiation of odontoblasts was inhibited, but the teeth looked otherwise healthy. When DON was added after 2 days of culture in control medium (at this time the odontoblasts in the cuspal area were already differentiated), it did not inhibit predentine secretion, ameloblast differentiation, nor enamel secretion. However, this was seen only in the cuspal area and the boundary to the undifferentiated, more cervical cells was distinct. The results support the concept that the mechanism of the differentiation of odontoblasts is different from that of the ameloblasts. We have shown earlier that a close association between the basement membrane and the mesenchymal cells is required for odontoblast differentiation. Because DON interferes with glycosaminoglycan and glycoprotein synthesis we suggest that DON inhibits odontoblast differentiation by affecting the mesenchymal cell surface and/or the basement membrane.", "PMID": 458364} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13208", "title": "Regional blood flow and its relationship to lymphocyte and lymphoblast traffic during a primary immune reaction.", "content": "The relationship of alterations in blood flow with changes in cell distribution has been studied in an inflammatory site and its draining lymph node during the induction of an immune reaction with oxazolone in mice. The cells which move to the site of inflammation are predominantly lymphoblasts and their increased localization in the inflamed ear is significantly correlated with increased regional blood flow to the inflamed tissue. The existence of this correlation is not antigen dependent although there is a relative increment of lymphoblasts which are specifically primed to the inflammatory agent. The localization of nonblastic (small) 51Cr-labeled lymphocytes on the other hand is substantial only in lymphoid tissue and during the induction of an immune reaction after oxazolone application, the increase in localization of these cells in the draining lymph node is positively correlated with increased blood flow to the node. Furthermore, the probability of finding 51Cr labeled lymphocytes in a particular lymph node is related to the regional blood flow which that node receives.", "contents": "Regional blood flow and its relationship to lymphocyte and lymphoblast traffic during a primary immune reaction. The relationship of alterations in blood flow with changes in cell distribution has been studied in an inflammatory site and its draining lymph node during the induction of an immune reaction with oxazolone in mice. The cells which move to the site of inflammation are predominantly lymphoblasts and their increased localization in the inflamed ear is significantly correlated with increased regional blood flow to the inflamed tissue. The existence of this correlation is not antigen dependent although there is a relative increment of lymphoblasts which are specifically primed to the inflammatory agent. The localization of nonblastic (small) 51Cr-labeled lymphocytes on the other hand is substantial only in lymphoid tissue and during the induction of an immune reaction after oxazolone application, the increase in localization of these cells in the draining lymph node is positively correlated with increased blood flow to the node. Furthermore, the probability of finding 51Cr labeled lymphocytes in a particular lymph node is related to the regional blood flow which that node receives.", "PMID": 458374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13209", "title": "The requirement for adherent cells in the Fc fragment-induced proliferative response of murine spleen cells.", "content": "The proliferative response of mouse B lymphocytes induced by Fc fragments was found to be dependent upon an adherent cell population. The adherent cell is esterase positive, irradiation resistant, and not susceptible to lysis by anti-thymus serum and complement. The mechanism(s) by which Fc fragments induce B-cell proliferation could be the result of the interaction of Fc with both B cells and adherent cells or with adherent cells which then release factors that trigger the B cells to proliferate. Spleen cells from the C3H/HeJ mouse were shown to be unable to respond to Fc fragments. The addition of adherent cells from either C3H/St or C3H/HeN mice to adherent cell depleted C3H/HeJ cells enabled them to respond to Fc, indicating the defect was in the adherent cell population.", "contents": "The requirement for adherent cells in the Fc fragment-induced proliferative response of murine spleen cells. The proliferative response of mouse B lymphocytes induced by Fc fragments was found to be dependent upon an adherent cell population. The adherent cell is esterase positive, irradiation resistant, and not susceptible to lysis by anti-thymus serum and complement. The mechanism(s) by which Fc fragments induce B-cell proliferation could be the result of the interaction of Fc with both B cells and adherent cells or with adherent cells which then release factors that trigger the B cells to proliferate. Spleen cells from the C3H/HeJ mouse were shown to be unable to respond to Fc fragments. The addition of adherent cells from either C3H/St or C3H/HeN mice to adherent cell depleted C3H/HeJ cells enabled them to respond to Fc, indicating the defect was in the adherent cell population.", "PMID": 458375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13210", "title": "The role of C4-binding protein and beta 1H in proteolysis of C4b and C3b.", "content": "Two forms of C4-binding protein (C4-bp) (C4-bp low, C4-bp high), which differ slightly in net charge and apparent molecular weight, as determined by SDS- PAGE, were separated by ion-exchange chromatography and contaminants removed with specific antisera. Both forms of C4-bp served as cofactors for the cleavage of C4b in solution by C3b inactivator, and the resulting fragments of the a'-chain of C4b had identical molecular weights. In addition, similarly to beta1H, C4-bp low or high served as cofactors for the cleavage of fluid phase C3b by C3bINA. However, important quantitative differences between the activities of C4-bp and beta1H were observed. With regard to C3b in solution, the cofactor activity of beta1H was {approximately equal to}20 times greater than that of C4-bp on a weight basis. In relation to cell-bound C3b, the differences in activity were even more marked. Whereas beta1H enhanced the effects of C3bINA on the erythrocyte intermediate EC3b, inhibiting the assembly of EC3bBb, C4-bp was without effect even at concentrations {approximately equal to}300 times greater than beta1H. Therefore, under physiological conditions, it is likely that beta1H is the key protein which controls the function of C3b, and that C4-bp activity is directed mainly toward the cleavage of C4b. We also examined the relation between C4-bp and the C3b-C4bINA cofactor described by Stroud and collaborators (3, 4). By functional, physico-chemical and immunological criteria, they are the same protein.", "contents": "The role of C4-binding protein and beta 1H in proteolysis of C4b and C3b. Two forms of C4-binding protein (C4-bp) (C4-bp low, C4-bp high), which differ slightly in net charge and apparent molecular weight, as determined by SDS- PAGE, were separated by ion-exchange chromatography and contaminants removed with specific antisera. Both forms of C4-bp served as cofactors for the cleavage of C4b in solution by C3b inactivator, and the resulting fragments of the a'-chain of C4b had identical molecular weights. In addition, similarly to beta1H, C4-bp low or high served as cofactors for the cleavage of fluid phase C3b by C3bINA. However, important quantitative differences between the activities of C4-bp and beta1H were observed. With regard to C3b in solution, the cofactor activity of beta1H was {approximately equal to}20 times greater than that of C4-bp on a weight basis. In relation to cell-bound C3b, the differences in activity were even more marked. Whereas beta1H enhanced the effects of C3bINA on the erythrocyte intermediate EC3b, inhibiting the assembly of EC3bBb, C4-bp was without effect even at concentrations {approximately equal to}300 times greater than beta1H. Therefore, under physiological conditions, it is likely that beta1H is the key protein which controls the function of C3b, and that C4-bp activity is directed mainly toward the cleavage of C4b. We also examined the relation between C4-bp and the C3b-C4bINA cofactor described by Stroud and collaborators (3, 4). By functional, physico-chemical and immunological criteria, they are the same protein.", "PMID": 458376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13211", "title": "Monocytes regulate osteoclast-activating factor production by releasing prostaglandins.", "content": "Osteoclast-activating factor (OAF), a powerful stimulator of osteoclastic bone resorption, is released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells on exposure to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or a specific antigen to which the leukocytes have been previously exposed. Both lymphocytes and monocytes are required in the leukocyte population for OAF release to occur. In this study we examined the relationship between the lymphocyte and monocyte in OAF production. Biological activity, as a result of OAF, was assessed by a bioassay based on the release of previously incorporated 45Ca from fetal rodent long bones in organ culture. We found that an enriched lymphocyte population depleted of monocytes by serial adherence does not release OAF after stimulation with PHA, although the cells are activated as assessed by [3H]thymidine and 3H-amino acid incorporation. When conditioned media harvested from adherent cells which did not contain OAF was added to the enriched lymphocytes, OAF release occurred. Media harvested from adherent cells which were cultured with indomethacin (10 microM), an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, did not permit OAF release by activated lymphocytes. When PGE1 and PGE2 (0.1 microM) were added exogenously to the enriched lymphocyte population, OAF release occurred after stimulation with PHA. These results indicate that, (a) the activated lymphocyte is the cell or origin of OAF, (b) prostaglandins produced by monocytes are necessary for OAF production by activated lymphocytes, and (c) monocyte prostaglandins can influence bone resorption indirectly by regulating OAF production as well as directly by osteoclast activation. The interactions of OAF and prostaglandins at bone resorbing sites may be important in inflammatory and neoplastic diseases associated with bone destruction.", "contents": "Monocytes regulate osteoclast-activating factor production by releasing prostaglandins. Osteoclast-activating factor (OAF), a powerful stimulator of osteoclastic bone resorption, is released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells on exposure to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or a specific antigen to which the leukocytes have been previously exposed. Both lymphocytes and monocytes are required in the leukocyte population for OAF release to occur. In this study we examined the relationship between the lymphocyte and monocyte in OAF production. Biological activity, as a result of OAF, was assessed by a bioassay based on the release of previously incorporated 45Ca from fetal rodent long bones in organ culture. We found that an enriched lymphocyte population depleted of monocytes by serial adherence does not release OAF after stimulation with PHA, although the cells are activated as assessed by [3H]thymidine and 3H-amino acid incorporation. When conditioned media harvested from adherent cells which did not contain OAF was added to the enriched lymphocytes, OAF release occurred. Media harvested from adherent cells which were cultured with indomethacin (10 microM), an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, did not permit OAF release by activated lymphocytes. When PGE1 and PGE2 (0.1 microM) were added exogenously to the enriched lymphocyte population, OAF release occurred after stimulation with PHA. These results indicate that, (a) the activated lymphocyte is the cell or origin of OAF, (b) prostaglandins produced by monocytes are necessary for OAF production by activated lymphocytes, and (c) monocyte prostaglandins can influence bone resorption indirectly by regulating OAF production as well as directly by osteoclast activation. The interactions of OAF and prostaglandins at bone resorbing sites may be important in inflammatory and neoplastic diseases associated with bone destruction.", "PMID": 458377} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13212", "title": "Radioimmune analysis of an unexpected mouse allotype.", "content": "We have used a radioimmune assay to confirm our earlier findings of an unexpected immunoglobulin allotype in Igb-congenic BALB/c mice. Although these mice were bred to exclude the IgG2a allotype of BALB/c (Ig-la), an Ig-la-like antigen was detected in the 7S Ig fraction of two (of five) pooled serum samples, it represented 0.1--0.3% of the total 7S protein and was indistinguishable from a reference Ig-la. The detection of putative Ig-la in Igb-congenic mice is inconsistent with the notion that allotypes are products of allelic structural genes. It appears rather that expression of Ig-la is controlled by allelic regulator genes and that its low and transient production in Igb-congenic mice results from incomplete negative regulation.", "contents": "Radioimmune analysis of an unexpected mouse allotype. We have used a radioimmune assay to confirm our earlier findings of an unexpected immunoglobulin allotype in Igb-congenic BALB/c mice. Although these mice were bred to exclude the IgG2a allotype of BALB/c (Ig-la), an Ig-la-like antigen was detected in the 7S Ig fraction of two (of five) pooled serum samples, it represented 0.1--0.3% of the total 7S protein and was indistinguishable from a reference Ig-la. The detection of putative Ig-la in Igb-congenic mice is inconsistent with the notion that allotypes are products of allelic structural genes. It appears rather that expression of Ig-la is controlled by allelic regulator genes and that its low and transient production in Igb-congenic mice results from incomplete negative regulation.", "PMID": 458378} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13213", "title": "Studies on the mechanisms of macrophage activation. II. Parasite destruction in macrophages activated by supernates from concanavalin A-stimulated lymphocytes.", "content": "Activation of mouse peritoneal exudate macrophages, as evidenced by destruction of the intracellular protozoan parasite Leishmania enriettii, was obtained by incubation with supernates from concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated syngeneic spleen cells. Parasites were not destroyed in macrophages exposed to control media. Supernate-induced activation was independent of the presence of Con A. The activating principle (macrophage activating factor, or MAF) was produced by Con A-stimulated lymphocytes in presence or absence of serum. In absence of serum, MAF synthesis was highest at Con A concentrations far below those required in serum-containing media. MAF production was reduced at Con A concentrations of 10 microgram/ml or above, probably a result of toxicity of the lectin for lymphocytes. MAF was detectable after 24 h of lymphocyte stimulation and increased up to 72 h; production appeared to be independent of DNA synthesis. Serum-free MAF was inactive when tested as such on macrophages. Full activity could be restored by addition of nanogram amounts of endotoxin or of FCS before assay. Endotoxin also considerably potentiated MAF activity in serum-containing supernates. Full intracellular parasite destruction was observed after contact of macrophages with MAF for 20 h. The continuous presence of MAF was not necessary for activation; a 10-h pulse was sufficient to induce macrophages to destroy all intracellular microorganisms within the next 38 h.", "contents": "Studies on the mechanisms of macrophage activation. II. Parasite destruction in macrophages activated by supernates from concanavalin A-stimulated lymphocytes. Activation of mouse peritoneal exudate macrophages, as evidenced by destruction of the intracellular protozoan parasite Leishmania enriettii, was obtained by incubation with supernates from concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated syngeneic spleen cells. Parasites were not destroyed in macrophages exposed to control media. Supernate-induced activation was independent of the presence of Con A. The activating principle (macrophage activating factor, or MAF) was produced by Con A-stimulated lymphocytes in presence or absence of serum. In absence of serum, MAF synthesis was highest at Con A concentrations far below those required in serum-containing media. MAF production was reduced at Con A concentrations of 10 microgram/ml or above, probably a result of toxicity of the lectin for lymphocytes. MAF was detectable after 24 h of lymphocyte stimulation and increased up to 72 h; production appeared to be independent of DNA synthesis. Serum-free MAF was inactive when tested as such on macrophages. Full activity could be restored by addition of nanogram amounts of endotoxin or of FCS before assay. Endotoxin also considerably potentiated MAF activity in serum-containing supernates. Full intracellular parasite destruction was observed after contact of macrophages with MAF for 20 h. The continuous presence of MAF was not necessary for activation; a 10-h pulse was sufficient to induce macrophages to destroy all intracellular microorganisms within the next 38 h.", "PMID": 458379} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13214", "title": "Generation of unique mono-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acids from arachidonic acid by human neutrophils.", "content": "Incubation of [3H]arachidonic acid with the 17,000-g supernatant from homogenates of human neutrophils in the presence of indomethacin generated the unique metabolites 9-OH-5,7,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (9-HETE) and 8-HETE, in addition to 12-HETE, 11-HETE and 5-HETE. The human neutrophil chemotactic activity of the HETE products exhibited a rank-order of potency with 5-HETE greater than 8-HETE = 9-HETE greater than 11-HETE = 12-HETE. The expression of chemokinetic activity as well as chemotactic activity suggested that the endogenous production of these principles may influence the mobility of human neutrophils.", "contents": "Generation of unique mono-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acids from arachidonic acid by human neutrophils. Incubation of [3H]arachidonic acid with the 17,000-g supernatant from homogenates of human neutrophils in the presence of indomethacin generated the unique metabolites 9-OH-5,7,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (9-HETE) and 8-HETE, in addition to 12-HETE, 11-HETE and 5-HETE. The human neutrophil chemotactic activity of the HETE products exhibited a rank-order of potency with 5-HETE greater than 8-HETE = 9-HETE greater than 11-HETE = 12-HETE. The expression of chemokinetic activity as well as chemotactic activity suggested that the endogenous production of these principles may influence the mobility of human neutrophils.", "PMID": 458381} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13215", "title": "A murine teratocarcinoma stem cell line carries suppressed oncogenic virus genomes.", "content": "Murine teratocarcinoma stem cells are nonpermissive for productive infection by a variety of DNA (polyoma and SV40 virus) and RNA (murine leukemia and sarcoma virus) tumor viruses whereas differentiated murine cells derived from the stem cells are permissive for productive (or abortive in the case of SV40) infection by these same viruses. The block to productive infection by these oncogenic viruses is at a postpenetration step in the replication cycle of these viruses but the precise level of the block has not been established for any of these viruses. In this report we describe teratocarcinoma-derived stem and differentiated cell lines which should be especially useful in determining the level of the block to replication of ecotropic murine leukemia virus in murine teratocarcinoma stem cells. The stem cell line, OTT6050AF1 BrdU, which is completely nonpermissive to productive infection by Moloney murine leukemia virus and consists of 97% pluripotent stem cells, contains DNA copies of an RNA tumor virus which is indistinguishable from the N-tropic murine leukemia virus of AKR mice. The stem cells are negative for expression of viral reverse transcriptase, p30 and gp69/71 and no virus is found by XC plaque assay or other biological tests. Differentiated cells established from the same teratocarcinoma tumor are 100% positive for viral gp69/71, p30, and produce large amounts of reverse transcriptase activity and N-tropic virus as detected by biological assay. The virus isolated from the differentiated cells is closely related, if not identical to AKR N-tropic virus by nucleic acid hybridization studies and is thus not an endogenous virus of the 129 strain of mice. The teratocarcinoma tumor from which the cell lines were established had been carried in 129 mice and perhaps at some time in the mouse passage history the tumors were infected (nonproductively) with the N-tropic virus. Regardless of the origin of this viral DNA, the OTT6050A derived stem and differentiated cell lines should be extremely useful in defining in stem cells the step at which ecotropic murine leukemia virus replication is blocked.", "contents": "A murine teratocarcinoma stem cell line carries suppressed oncogenic virus genomes. Murine teratocarcinoma stem cells are nonpermissive for productive infection by a variety of DNA (polyoma and SV40 virus) and RNA (murine leukemia and sarcoma virus) tumor viruses whereas differentiated murine cells derived from the stem cells are permissive for productive (or abortive in the case of SV40) infection by these same viruses. The block to productive infection by these oncogenic viruses is at a postpenetration step in the replication cycle of these viruses but the precise level of the block has not been established for any of these viruses. In this report we describe teratocarcinoma-derived stem and differentiated cell lines which should be especially useful in determining the level of the block to replication of ecotropic murine leukemia virus in murine teratocarcinoma stem cells. The stem cell line, OTT6050AF1 BrdU, which is completely nonpermissive to productive infection by Moloney murine leukemia virus and consists of 97% pluripotent stem cells, contains DNA copies of an RNA tumor virus which is indistinguishable from the N-tropic murine leukemia virus of AKR mice. The stem cells are negative for expression of viral reverse transcriptase, p30 and gp69/71 and no virus is found by XC plaque assay or other biological tests. Differentiated cells established from the same teratocarcinoma tumor are 100% positive for viral gp69/71, p30, and produce large amounts of reverse transcriptase activity and N-tropic virus as detected by biological assay. The virus isolated from the differentiated cells is closely related, if not identical to AKR N-tropic virus by nucleic acid hybridization studies and is thus not an endogenous virus of the 129 strain of mice. The teratocarcinoma tumor from which the cell lines were established had been carried in 129 mice and perhaps at some time in the mouse passage history the tumors were infected (nonproductively) with the N-tropic virus. Regardless of the origin of this viral DNA, the OTT6050A derived stem and differentiated cell lines should be extremely useful in defining in stem cells the step at which ecotropic murine leukemia virus replication is blocked.", "PMID": 458380} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13216", "title": "Incorporation of [U-14 C]glucose into metabolites of brain, liver and blood of rats pretreated with reserpine or phenothiazines.", "content": "Parkinsonism was induced in rats by using phenothiazines (Butyrylperazin and Thioproperazin). (P-group), or reserpine, (R-group). [U-14 C)D-glucose was administered when the symptoms of Parkinsonism had become fully developed. Concentrations and radioactivities of different metabolites were studied in brain, liver and blood serum. 1. Both types of treatments resulted in a decrease in the synthesis of amino acids from [14C]glucose in the brain. The concentrations of amino acids and the glycogen remained uneffected. Phenothiazines enhanced the conversion of lipids, while reserpine increased their concentration. 2. Reduced de novo synthesis of amino acids was recorded in the liver. Phenothiazines resulted in the storage of glycogen and lipids; reserpine resulted in the storage of lipids and enhanced the conversion of glycogen. 3. Both treatments caused a fall in the amino acid concentration of the blood serum. A rise in the specific radioactivity of blood amino acids was observed in the P-group, while a decrease in specific radioactivity was observed in the R-group. A hyperglycemia was induced in the R-group with reduced specific radioactivity of glucose in both P-and R-groups. A reduction in lipid concentration of blood serum was achieved with an increased specific radioactivity in P-group and decreased radioactivity in R-group. 4. The changes in amino acids common to both treatments are also observed in human Parkinsonism.", "contents": "Incorporation of [U-14 C]glucose into metabolites of brain, liver and blood of rats pretreated with reserpine or phenothiazines. Parkinsonism was induced in rats by using phenothiazines (Butyrylperazin and Thioproperazin). (P-group), or reserpine, (R-group). [U-14 C)D-glucose was administered when the symptoms of Parkinsonism had become fully developed. Concentrations and radioactivities of different metabolites were studied in brain, liver and blood serum. 1. Both types of treatments resulted in a decrease in the synthesis of amino acids from [14C]glucose in the brain. The concentrations of amino acids and the glycogen remained uneffected. Phenothiazines enhanced the conversion of lipids, while reserpine increased their concentration. 2. Reduced de novo synthesis of amino acids was recorded in the liver. Phenothiazines resulted in the storage of glycogen and lipids; reserpine resulted in the storage of lipids and enhanced the conversion of glycogen. 3. Both treatments caused a fall in the amino acid concentration of the blood serum. A rise in the specific radioactivity of blood amino acids was observed in the P-group, while a decrease in specific radioactivity was observed in the R-group. A hyperglycemia was induced in the R-group with reduced specific radioactivity of glucose in both P-and R-groups. A reduction in lipid concentration of blood serum was achieved with an increased specific radioactivity in P-group and decreased radioactivity in R-group. 4. The changes in amino acids common to both treatments are also observed in human Parkinsonism.", "PMID": 458382} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13217", "title": "[The activity of the peroxide-metabolizing system in human liver (author's transl)].", "content": "The activities of various peroxide-metabolizing enzymes were determined in homogenates of human liver excisions. The specific activity of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase was 41.1 +/- 23.7 (S.D.) mU/mg protein; non-selenium glutathione peroxidase showed a activity of 30.5 +/- 14.0 mU/mg protein. The catalase and superoxide dismutase concentrations were 4.72 +/- 0.58 and 1.87 +/- 0.68 microgram/mg protein, respectively. Total glutathione amounted to 12.9 +/- 7.4 nmol/mg. Malondialdehyde formation, used as the basis for the determination of lipid hydroperoxides, was 0.32 +/- 0.14 nmol/mg. The data indicate much lower enzyme and substrate levels compared to rats and mice. A positive correlation of r = 0.48 +/- 0.31 was found between the glutathione level and selenium-dependent peroxidase. Selenium-dependent and non-selenium-glutathione peroxidase correlate negatively (r = -0.71 +/- 0.18); superoxide dismutase concentration and lipid-hydroperoxides are also related by a negative correlation coefficient of r = 0.47 +/- 0.31. These data stress the major hepatoprotective role of these systems in human liver.", "contents": "[The activity of the peroxide-metabolizing system in human liver (author's transl)]. The activities of various peroxide-metabolizing enzymes were determined in homogenates of human liver excisions. The specific activity of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase was 41.1 +/- 23.7 (S.D.) mU/mg protein; non-selenium glutathione peroxidase showed a activity of 30.5 +/- 14.0 mU/mg protein. The catalase and superoxide dismutase concentrations were 4.72 +/- 0.58 and 1.87 +/- 0.68 microgram/mg protein, respectively. Total glutathione amounted to 12.9 +/- 7.4 nmol/mg. Malondialdehyde formation, used as the basis for the determination of lipid hydroperoxides, was 0.32 +/- 0.14 nmol/mg. The data indicate much lower enzyme and substrate levels compared to rats and mice. A positive correlation of r = 0.48 +/- 0.31 was found between the glutathione level and selenium-dependent peroxidase. Selenium-dependent and non-selenium-glutathione peroxidase correlate negatively (r = -0.71 +/- 0.18); superoxide dismutase concentration and lipid-hydroperoxides are also related by a negative correlation coefficient of r = 0.47 +/- 0.31. These data stress the major hepatoprotective role of these systems in human liver.", "PMID": 458383} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13218", "title": "Aids to the evaluation of diagnostic performance, as applied to immunological creatine kinase-MB assay in myocardial infarction.", "content": "Immunoassay of creatine kinase-MB provides numerical information, which makes it possible to estimate quantitatively the diagnostic performance following myocardial infarction. Two graphical methods for such an evaluation are presented. The relationship between technical sensitivity and specificity was analyzed using a continuous function, the receiver-operator characteristic curve. Using this function, a diagnostic threshold (\"upper normal limit\") was chosen, which balances both technical specificity and sensitivity on the first day following infarction. On the second and third days this threshold caused a progressive loss of technical sensitivity. The relationship between effectiveness and the prevalence of myocardial infarction in the tested population was evaluated with a nomogram correlating these two quantities. With the chosen diagnostic threshold, effectiveness is independent of prevalence on the first day, but the loss in technical sensitivity on subsequent days causes effectiveness to decay when the prevalence is high.", "contents": "Aids to the evaluation of diagnostic performance, as applied to immunological creatine kinase-MB assay in myocardial infarction. Immunoassay of creatine kinase-MB provides numerical information, which makes it possible to estimate quantitatively the diagnostic performance following myocardial infarction. Two graphical methods for such an evaluation are presented. The relationship between technical sensitivity and specificity was analyzed using a continuous function, the receiver-operator characteristic curve. Using this function, a diagnostic threshold (\"upper normal limit\") was chosen, which balances both technical specificity and sensitivity on the first day following infarction. On the second and third days this threshold caused a progressive loss of technical sensitivity. The relationship between effectiveness and the prevalence of myocardial infarction in the tested population was evaluated with a nomogram correlating these two quantities. With the chosen diagnostic threshold, effectiveness is independent of prevalence on the first day, but the loss in technical sensitivity on subsequent days causes effectiveness to decay when the prevalence is high.", "PMID": 458384} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13219", "title": "[The use of reptilase for electrophoresis of heparinized plasma (author's transl)].", "content": "Fibrinogen can be precipitated from Heparin-plasma by Reptilase (Batroxobin). The electrophoretic pattern of the supernatant on cellulose acetate is nearly identical with that of the corresponding serum. This technique is also useful in differentiating a gradient of fibrinogen (caused by effects of anticoagulants) from a myeloma peak.", "contents": "[The use of reptilase for electrophoresis of heparinized plasma (author's transl)]. Fibrinogen can be precipitated from Heparin-plasma by Reptilase (Batroxobin). The electrophoretic pattern of the supernatant on cellulose acetate is nearly identical with that of the corresponding serum. This technique is also useful in differentiating a gradient of fibrinogen (caused by effects of anticoagulants) from a myeloma peak.", "PMID": 458385} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13220", "title": "Evaluation of methods for the estimation of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase for a broad range of lead concentrations in the blood of exposed workers.", "content": "5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity was estimated in the blood of 30 lead-exposed workers and 15 control persons, using (I) the method of Tomokuni ((1974) Arch. Environm. Health 29, 274--281) and (II) the European standard method (Berlin & Schaller (1974) Z. Klin. Chem. Klin. Biochem. 12, 389--390). The lead level in the blood was in the range 0--11.6 mumol/l. It was found that the correlation between the activity of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase and the lead level in blood (up to 4.35 mumol/l) are higher for method I than method II. These two methods only give similar results for the units of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity when the lead concentrations in the blood are low. For higher concentrations of this metal (up to 11.6 mumol/l), a high correlation was obtained (r = -- 0.80) between the 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity ratio (enzyme measured at pH 6.8/enzyme measured at pH 6.0; method I) and lead concentrations in the blood.", "contents": "Evaluation of methods for the estimation of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase for a broad range of lead concentrations in the blood of exposed workers. 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity was estimated in the blood of 30 lead-exposed workers and 15 control persons, using (I) the method of Tomokuni ((1974) Arch. Environm. Health 29, 274--281) and (II) the European standard method (Berlin & Schaller (1974) Z. Klin. Chem. Klin. Biochem. 12, 389--390). The lead level in the blood was in the range 0--11.6 mumol/l. It was found that the correlation between the activity of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase and the lead level in blood (up to 4.35 mumol/l) are higher for method I than method II. These two methods only give similar results for the units of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity when the lead concentrations in the blood are low. For higher concentrations of this metal (up to 11.6 mumol/l), a high correlation was obtained (r = -- 0.80) between the 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity ratio (enzyme measured at pH 6.8/enzyme measured at pH 6.0; method I) and lead concentrations in the blood.", "PMID": 458386} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13221", "title": "Comparison of acidic and basic chromosomal proteins from normal human endometrium and undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma by isoelectric focussing and microgel-electrophoresis.", "content": "In the study reported here, non-histamine chromosomal proteins from proliferative and secretory human endometrium, and from undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma have been separated into more than 750 protein components, using a new preparative and highly sensitive analytical method. The following experimental procedure was applied: 1. Dissociation of chromatin under different conditions (variable parameters: ion strength, dissociation agents, shearing, pH), 2. cation exchange chromatography over Bio Rex, 3. preparative fractionation of those non-histamine chromosomal proteins which are not adsorbed on Bio Rex 70 in a Valmet-electrofocusing apparatus, 4. micro-electrophoresis of the focused proteins in microgels containing a continous gradient of polyacrylamide, 5. two-dimensional electrophoresis of the strongly basic chromosomal proteins. There are qualitative differences with respect to the components of this class of proteins between proliferative and secretory endometrium and endometrial carcinoma. The relevance of these results to the control of gene activity is discussed.", "contents": "Comparison of acidic and basic chromosomal proteins from normal human endometrium and undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma by isoelectric focussing and microgel-electrophoresis. In the study reported here, non-histamine chromosomal proteins from proliferative and secretory human endometrium, and from undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma have been separated into more than 750 protein components, using a new preparative and highly sensitive analytical method. The following experimental procedure was applied: 1. Dissociation of chromatin under different conditions (variable parameters: ion strength, dissociation agents, shearing, pH), 2. cation exchange chromatography over Bio Rex, 3. preparative fractionation of those non-histamine chromosomal proteins which are not adsorbed on Bio Rex 70 in a Valmet-electrofocusing apparatus, 4. micro-electrophoresis of the focused proteins in microgels containing a continous gradient of polyacrylamide, 5. two-dimensional electrophoresis of the strongly basic chromosomal proteins. There are qualitative differences with respect to the components of this class of proteins between proliferative and secretory endometrium and endometrial carcinoma. The relevance of these results to the control of gene activity is discussed.", "PMID": 458387} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13222", "title": "Cow's milk allergy: a critical review.", "content": "Foods which are ingested frequently, and cow's milk in particular, are a common cause of delayed-in-onset allergy. Difficulty in diagnosing milk allergy is encountered because: (1) skin tests are unreliable; (2) the symptoms of milk allergy are frequently delayed in appearing, thereby obscuring their connection with the previously ingested food; (3) when such symptoms do appear, they often fail to suggest allergy as etiologic; and (4) the offending antigen may be present in a milk product not obviously associated with milk per se such as sherbet or cheese. Contrary to common belief, most milk (and other food) allergy is not reagin (IgE) mediated. Milk allergy is not confined to infancy, but is frequently seen in children and adults, often persisting as an allergy which had supposedly been \"outgrown.\" Since milk allergy is often a familial disorder, its presence in a patient can assist the physician in possibly discovering it in other members of the family. A two or three-week trial elimination of milk, in conjunction with written dietary instructions for the patient, is presently the only reliable diagnostic procedure.", "contents": "Cow's milk allergy: a critical review. Foods which are ingested frequently, and cow's milk in particular, are a common cause of delayed-in-onset allergy. Difficulty in diagnosing milk allergy is encountered because: (1) skin tests are unreliable; (2) the symptoms of milk allergy are frequently delayed in appearing, thereby obscuring their connection with the previously ingested food; (3) when such symptoms do appear, they often fail to suggest allergy as etiologic; and (4) the offending antigen may be present in a milk product not obviously associated with milk per se such as sherbet or cheese. Contrary to common belief, most milk (and other food) allergy is not reagin (IgE) mediated. Milk allergy is not confined to infancy, but is frequently seen in children and adults, often persisting as an allergy which had supposedly been \"outgrown.\" Since milk allergy is often a familial disorder, its presence in a patient can assist the physician in possibly discovering it in other members of the family. A two or three-week trial elimination of milk, in conjunction with written dietary instructions for the patient, is presently the only reliable diagnostic procedure.", "PMID": 458390} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13223", "title": "Podophyllum toxicity: case report and literature review.", "content": "A case is reported of apparent podophyllum toxicity. The patient was a 17-year-old female Indian who had received some 3 to 8 cc of a 20 percent mixture of podophyllum resin in compound tincture of benzoin (approximately equal to 0.4 gm of podophylotoxin) as an application to her vulvar condylomata. She returned to the hospital 20 hours after application in a comatose state. On examination she demonstrated severe toxicity including bone marrow, liver, and central nervous system. She required a charcoal hemoperfusion at the University of Colorado, and six months after the event has several neurologic and physiologic sequelae. Podophyllum is a potentially severely toxic drug. Great care must be taken when treating patients with this drug. A large mass of condylomata or the status of pregnancy should be relative contraindications to the use of podophyllum.", "contents": "Podophyllum toxicity: case report and literature review. A case is reported of apparent podophyllum toxicity. The patient was a 17-year-old female Indian who had received some 3 to 8 cc of a 20 percent mixture of podophyllum resin in compound tincture of benzoin (approximately equal to 0.4 gm of podophylotoxin) as an application to her vulvar condylomata. She returned to the hospital 20 hours after application in a comatose state. On examination she demonstrated severe toxicity including bone marrow, liver, and central nervous system. She required a charcoal hemoperfusion at the University of Colorado, and six months after the event has several neurologic and physiologic sequelae. Podophyllum is a potentially severely toxic drug. Great care must be taken when treating patients with this drug. A large mass of condylomata or the status of pregnancy should be relative contraindications to the use of podophyllum.", "PMID": 458391} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13224", "title": "Teaching attitudes and skills in microcounseling.", "content": "This is the first of two papers describing salient aspects of the behavioral science orientation curriculum in the Charleston Family Practice Residency that focus on developing counseling skills. Two short lectures preceding microcounseling training are summarized. One short lecture outlines the myth of medical management and differentiates a \"problem oriented\" from a \"client oriented\" model. The second short lecture presents the definition of communication as a culturally structured complementary series of behaviors. Microcounseling, which is an experientially oriented series of communication exercises, is presented in detail. The article concludes with a discussion of the specific advantages and disadvantages of this particular learning format and its implications for the practice of family medicine.", "contents": "Teaching attitudes and skills in microcounseling. This is the first of two papers describing salient aspects of the behavioral science orientation curriculum in the Charleston Family Practice Residency that focus on developing counseling skills. Two short lectures preceding microcounseling training are summarized. One short lecture outlines the myth of medical management and differentiates a \"problem oriented\" from a \"client oriented\" model. The second short lecture presents the definition of communication as a culturally structured complementary series of behaviors. Microcounseling, which is an experientially oriented series of communication exercises, is presented in detail. The article concludes with a discussion of the specific advantages and disadvantages of this particular learning format and its implications for the practice of family medicine.", "PMID": 458392} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13225", "title": "Observations and impressions of the Canadian health care system.", "content": "The United States government, in its desire to deliver broad health care coverage to its citizens, has looked to several of the established socialized health care systems for direction. There are definitely good points in each system, and the Canadian system, in particular, has done quite well in providing services within a limited federal budget. On the other hand, the unlimited access to care has led to increased demands for health care services, overperformance of services, and excessive utilization of facilities. There are major technological constraints now emerging and the fiscal integrity of the system is shaky. There is a notable decrease in research and voluntary faculty participation at university levels. Financial constraints are becoming more severe and it appears that demand vis-a-vis the resources available will soon force stringent readjustments in Canadian health care delivery and funding. Health care plan administrators concede that unless more dollars are invested in the system, the current level of health care delivery cannot be maintained.", "contents": "Observations and impressions of the Canadian health care system. The United States government, in its desire to deliver broad health care coverage to its citizens, has looked to several of the established socialized health care systems for direction. There are definitely good points in each system, and the Canadian system, in particular, has done quite well in providing services within a limited federal budget. On the other hand, the unlimited access to care has led to increased demands for health care services, overperformance of services, and excessive utilization of facilities. There are major technological constraints now emerging and the fiscal integrity of the system is shaky. There is a notable decrease in research and voluntary faculty participation at university levels. Financial constraints are becoming more severe and it appears that demand vis-a-vis the resources available will soon force stringent readjustments in Canadian health care delivery and funding. Health care plan administrators concede that unless more dollars are invested in the system, the current level of health care delivery cannot be maintained.", "PMID": 458394} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13226", "title": "Morbidity in the first year of a family practice and its comparison to the Virginia study.", "content": "In the first year of practice two family physicians recorded 8,795 new problems. The problems were ranked in order of decreasing frequency and compared to the results of the Virginia study. The results support the concept that a curriculum for family practice residency training based on results of the Virginia study is a valuable concept. The study also sheds light on the patterns of disease in a new practive as well as suggesting applications for the use of the disease index in practice management.", "contents": "Morbidity in the first year of a family practice and its comparison to the Virginia study. In the first year of practice two family physicians recorded 8,795 new problems. The problems were ranked in order of decreasing frequency and compared to the results of the Virginia study. The results support the concept that a curriculum for family practice residency training based on results of the Virginia study is a valuable concept. The study also sheds light on the patterns of disease in a new practive as well as suggesting applications for the use of the disease index in practice management.", "PMID": 458395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13227", "title": "The agitated patient.", "content": "The emergency management of the agitated patient is a common medical problem. Agitated behavior is not a diagnosis but a descriptive term; the initial task of the physician involves determining the etiology of the behavioral disturbance and evaluating the possible contribution of organic factors. Such factors as age of onset, acuteness of onset, concurrent illness, evidence of delirium or dementia, or use of exogenous pharmacologic agents require careful evaluation. Agitated patients will generally fall into one of four diagnostic categories: agitation precipitated by drug intoxication, agitation precipitated by drug withdrawal, agitation precipitated by an organic brain syndrome, or agitation precipitated by a functional disorder. Appropriate pharmacological and psychological management techniques for these situations are discussed.", "contents": "The agitated patient. The emergency management of the agitated patient is a common medical problem. Agitated behavior is not a diagnosis but a descriptive term; the initial task of the physician involves determining the etiology of the behavioral disturbance and evaluating the possible contribution of organic factors. Such factors as age of onset, acuteness of onset, concurrent illness, evidence of delirium or dementia, or use of exogenous pharmacologic agents require careful evaluation. Agitated patients will generally fall into one of four diagnostic categories: agitation precipitated by drug intoxication, agitation precipitated by drug withdrawal, agitation precipitated by an organic brain syndrome, or agitation precipitated by a functional disorder. Appropriate pharmacological and psychological management techniques for these situations are discussed.", "PMID": 458396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13228", "title": "The contribution of a sensitizing pigment to the photosensitivity spectra of fly rhodopsin and metarhodopsin.", "content": "Most of the photoreceptors of the fly compound eye have high sensitivity in the ultraviolet (UV) as well as in the visible spectral range. This UV sensitivity arises from a photostable pigment that acts as a sensitizer for rhodopsin. Because the sensitizing pigment cannot be bleached, the classical determination of the photosensitivity spectrum from measurements of the difference spectrum of the pigment cannot be applied. We therefore used a new method to determine the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin in the UV spectral range. The method is based on the fact that the invertebrate visual pigment is a bistable one, in which rhodopsin and metarhodopsin are photointerconvertible. The pigment changes were measured by a fast electrical potential, called the M potential, which arises from activation of metarhodopsin. We first established the use of the M potential as a reliable measure of the visual pigment changes in the fly. We then calculated the photosensitivity spectrum of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin by using two kinds of experimentally measured spectra: the relaxation and the photoequilibrium spectra. The relaxation spectrum represents the wavelength dependence of the rate of approach of the pigment molecules to photoequilibrium. This spectrum is the weighted sum of the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin. The photoequilibrium spectrum measures the fraction of metarhodopsin (or rhodopsin) in photoequilibrium which is reached in the steady state for application of various wavelengths of light. By using this method we found that, although the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin are very different in the visible, they show strict coincidence in the UV region. This observation indicates that the photostable pigment acts as a sensitizer for both rhodopsin as well as metarhodopsin.", "contents": "The contribution of a sensitizing pigment to the photosensitivity spectra of fly rhodopsin and metarhodopsin. Most of the photoreceptors of the fly compound eye have high sensitivity in the ultraviolet (UV) as well as in the visible spectral range. This UV sensitivity arises from a photostable pigment that acts as a sensitizer for rhodopsin. Because the sensitizing pigment cannot be bleached, the classical determination of the photosensitivity spectrum from measurements of the difference spectrum of the pigment cannot be applied. We therefore used a new method to determine the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin in the UV spectral range. The method is based on the fact that the invertebrate visual pigment is a bistable one, in which rhodopsin and metarhodopsin are photointerconvertible. The pigment changes were measured by a fast electrical potential, called the M potential, which arises from activation of metarhodopsin. We first established the use of the M potential as a reliable measure of the visual pigment changes in the fly. We then calculated the photosensitivity spectrum of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin by using two kinds of experimentally measured spectra: the relaxation and the photoequilibrium spectra. The relaxation spectrum represents the wavelength dependence of the rate of approach of the pigment molecules to photoequilibrium. This spectrum is the weighted sum of the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin. The photoequilibrium spectrum measures the fraction of metarhodopsin (or rhodopsin) in photoequilibrium which is reached in the steady state for application of various wavelengths of light. By using this method we found that, although the photosensitivity spectra of rhodopsin and metarhodopsin are very different in the visible, they show strict coincidence in the UV region. This observation indicates that the photostable pigment acts as a sensitizer for both rhodopsin as well as metarhodopsin.", "PMID": 458418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13229", "title": "The gecko visual pigments. The behavior of opsin.", "content": "The 521-pigment extracted out of the retina of the Tokay gecko has the typical stereospecificity of the vertebrate visual pigments. This is true for the pigment in the chloride-depleted, \"blue-shifted\" state as well as for the normal pigment with added chloride. While in the chloride-deficient state, pigment regeneration occurred with both 11-cis- and 9-cis-retinals and the regenerated photopigments were also in the blue-shifted, chloride-depleted state. As with the native pigment, these regenerated pigments were bathochromically shifted to their normal positions by the addition of chloride. Chloride-deficient opsin by itself also responded to chloride for the pigment regenerated with 11-cis-retinal from such chloride-treated opsin was in the normal 521-position. Regeneration was always rapid, reaching completion in less than 5 min, and was significantly faster than for cow rhodopsin regenerating under the same conditions. This rapid rate was found with or without chloride, with both 11-cis- and 9-cis-retinals and in the presence of the sulfhydryl poison, p-hydroxymercuribenzoate (PMB). Like the native chloride-deficient pigment, the regenerated chloride-depleted photopigments responded to PMB by a blue shift beyond the position of the chloride-deficient state. The addition of chloride to these \"poisoned\" regenerated pigments caused a bathochromic shift of such magnitude as to indicate a repair of both the PMB and chloride-deficient blue shift. In this discussion the possible implications of these results to phylogenetic considerations are considered as well as to some molecular properties of the 521-pigment.", "contents": "The gecko visual pigments. The behavior of opsin. The 521-pigment extracted out of the retina of the Tokay gecko has the typical stereospecificity of the vertebrate visual pigments. This is true for the pigment in the chloride-depleted, \"blue-shifted\" state as well as for the normal pigment with added chloride. While in the chloride-deficient state, pigment regeneration occurred with both 11-cis- and 9-cis-retinals and the regenerated photopigments were also in the blue-shifted, chloride-depleted state. As with the native pigment, these regenerated pigments were bathochromically shifted to their normal positions by the addition of chloride. Chloride-deficient opsin by itself also responded to chloride for the pigment regenerated with 11-cis-retinal from such chloride-treated opsin was in the normal 521-position. Regeneration was always rapid, reaching completion in less than 5 min, and was significantly faster than for cow rhodopsin regenerating under the same conditions. This rapid rate was found with or without chloride, with both 11-cis- and 9-cis-retinals and in the presence of the sulfhydryl poison, p-hydroxymercuribenzoate (PMB). Like the native chloride-deficient pigment, the regenerated chloride-depleted photopigments responded to PMB by a blue shift beyond the position of the chloride-deficient state. The addition of chloride to these \"poisoned\" regenerated pigments caused a bathochromic shift of such magnitude as to indicate a repair of both the PMB and chloride-deficient blue shift. In this discussion the possible implications of these results to phylogenetic considerations are considered as well as to some molecular properties of the 521-pigment.", "PMID": 458419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13230", "title": "Sodium deprivation alters neural responses to gustatory stimuli.", "content": "The effects of sodium deprivation for 10 d, a period sufficient to induce sodium appetite, on gustatory nerve discharges in rats were determined. Chorda tympani responses to concentration series of sodium chloride, sucrose, hydrochloric acid, and quinine hydrochloride were recorded and analyzed without the experimenter knowing the animal's deprivation condition. After deprivation, both whole nerve and single nerve fiber responses to sodium chloride were smaller; NaCl-best fibers, those more responsive to sodium chloride than to sucrose, hydrochloric acid, or quinine, were most affected. Thresholds had not changed; however, slopes of the stimulus-response functions for sodium chloride were lowered. Comparable changes in responses to the other stimuli did not occur. These results were discussed with respect to a possible relationship between changes in sodium chloride responsivity and changes in sodium intake, differences between methods of inducing sodium appetite, coding of taste quality and intensity, and mechanisms which might effect the responsivity change.", "contents": "Sodium deprivation alters neural responses to gustatory stimuli. The effects of sodium deprivation for 10 d, a period sufficient to induce sodium appetite, on gustatory nerve discharges in rats were determined. Chorda tympani responses to concentration series of sodium chloride, sucrose, hydrochloric acid, and quinine hydrochloride were recorded and analyzed without the experimenter knowing the animal's deprivation condition. After deprivation, both whole nerve and single nerve fiber responses to sodium chloride were smaller; NaCl-best fibers, those more responsive to sodium chloride than to sucrose, hydrochloric acid, or quinine, were most affected. Thresholds had not changed; however, slopes of the stimulus-response functions for sodium chloride were lowered. Comparable changes in responses to the other stimuli did not occur. These results were discussed with respect to a possible relationship between changes in sodium chloride responsivity and changes in sodium intake, differences between methods of inducing sodium appetite, coding of taste quality and intensity, and mechanisms which might effect the responsivity change.", "PMID": 458420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13231", "title": "Propagation of action potentials in squid giant axons. Repetitive firing at regions of membrane inhomogeneities.", "content": "Effects of reduction in potassium conductance on impulse conduction were studied in squid giant axons. Internal perfusion of axons with tetraethylammonium (TEA) ions reduces G K and causes the duration of action potential to be increased up to 300 ms. This prolongation of action potentials does not change their conduction velocity. The shape of these propagating action potentials is similar to membrane action potentials in TEA. Axons with regions of differing membrane potassium conductances are obtained by perfusing the axon trunk and one of its two main branches with TEA after the second branch has been filled with normal perfusing solution. Although the latter is initially free of TEA, this ion diffuses in slowly. Up until a large amount of TEA has diffused into the second branch, action potentials in the two branches have very different durations. During this period, membrane regions with prolonged action potentials are a source of depolarizing current for the other, and repetitive activity may be initiated at transitional regions. After a single stimulus in either axon region, interactions between action potentials of different durations usually led to rebound, or a short burst, of action potentials. Complex interactions between two axon regions whose action potentials have different durations resembles electric activity recorded during some cardiac arrhythmias.", "contents": "Propagation of action potentials in squid giant axons. Repetitive firing at regions of membrane inhomogeneities. Effects of reduction in potassium conductance on impulse conduction were studied in squid giant axons. Internal perfusion of axons with tetraethylammonium (TEA) ions reduces G K and causes the duration of action potential to be increased up to 300 ms. This prolongation of action potentials does not change their conduction velocity. The shape of these propagating action potentials is similar to membrane action potentials in TEA. Axons with regions of differing membrane potassium conductances are obtained by perfusing the axon trunk and one of its two main branches with TEA after the second branch has been filled with normal perfusing solution. Although the latter is initially free of TEA, this ion diffuses in slowly. Up until a large amount of TEA has diffused into the second branch, action potentials in the two branches have very different durations. During this period, membrane regions with prolonged action potentials are a source of depolarizing current for the other, and repetitive activity may be initiated at transitional regions. After a single stimulus in either axon region, interactions between action potentials of different durations usually led to rebound, or a short burst, of action potentials. Complex interactions between two axon regions whose action potentials have different durations resembles electric activity recorded during some cardiac arrhythmias.", "PMID": 458421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13232", "title": "Phenoxazinone biosynthesis: accumulation of a precursor, 4-methyl-3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, by mutants of Streptomyces parvulus.", "content": "Mutants of Streptomyces parvulus that are blocked in the synthesis of the phenoxazinone-containing antibiotic, actinomycin, were isolated by the 'agar piece' method (after ultraviolet irradiation or treatment with 8-methoxypsoralen plus near-ultraviolet light). Radiolabelling experiments in conjunction with paper, thin-layer and column chromatography revealed that 4-methyl-3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (MHA) is a major metabolite accumulated by these mutants. Studies in vitro and in vivo provided evidence that MHA is a precursor of the phenoxazinone chromophore, actinocin. Normally MHA does not accumulate during growth or antibiotic synthesis by the parental strains. Protoplasts derived from the mutant strain AM5 synthesized MHA in significant amounts. A scheme is proposed for the biosynthesis of actinomycin D that accounts for the accumulation of MHA by the mutants.", "contents": "Phenoxazinone biosynthesis: accumulation of a precursor, 4-methyl-3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, by mutants of Streptomyces parvulus. Mutants of Streptomyces parvulus that are blocked in the synthesis of the phenoxazinone-containing antibiotic, actinomycin, were isolated by the 'agar piece' method (after ultraviolet irradiation or treatment with 8-methoxypsoralen plus near-ultraviolet light). Radiolabelling experiments in conjunction with paper, thin-layer and column chromatography revealed that 4-methyl-3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (MHA) is a major metabolite accumulated by these mutants. Studies in vitro and in vivo provided evidence that MHA is a precursor of the phenoxazinone chromophore, actinocin. Normally MHA does not accumulate during growth or antibiotic synthesis by the parental strains. Protoplasts derived from the mutant strain AM5 synthesized MHA in significant amounts. A scheme is proposed for the biosynthesis of actinomycin D that accounts for the accumulation of MHA by the mutants.", "PMID": 458423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13233", "title": "Factors affecting recombinant frequency in protoplast fusions of Streptomyces coelicolor.", "content": "The optimum concentration of polyethylene glycol 1000 (PEG) for the production of recombinants through protoplast fusion in Streptomyces coelicolor was about 50% (w/v). The addition of 14% (v/v) dimethyl sulphoxide to the fusion mixture enhanced recombination frequencies, but only at sub-optimal PEG concentrations. After treatment of protoplasts with 50% PEG for 1 min, the frequency of recombinants in a multi-factor 'cross' sometimes exceeded 20% of the total progeny. The frequency of recombinants in the progeny could be significantly enhanced by ultraviolet irradiation of the parental protoplast suspensions immediately before fusion.", "contents": "Factors affecting recombinant frequency in protoplast fusions of Streptomyces coelicolor. The optimum concentration of polyethylene glycol 1000 (PEG) for the production of recombinants through protoplast fusion in Streptomyces coelicolor was about 50% (w/v). The addition of 14% (v/v) dimethyl sulphoxide to the fusion mixture enhanced recombination frequencies, but only at sub-optimal PEG concentrations. After treatment of protoplasts with 50% PEG for 1 min, the frequency of recombinants in a multi-factor 'cross' sometimes exceeded 20% of the total progeny. The frequency of recombinants in the progeny could be significantly enhanced by ultraviolet irradiation of the parental protoplast suspensions immediately before fusion.", "PMID": 458424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13234", "title": "Modulation by centrifugation of cell susceptibility to chlamydial infection.", "content": "Enhancement of chlamydial infection of cell monolayers by centrifugation was shown to depend on induced cell surface changes. Evidence for this came from analysis of two forms of organism attachment which take place during centrifugation. In 'productive binding', organisms attached to cells and then entered and infected them. In 'unproductive binding', organisms became attached to cells but were not ingested. These organisms could be stripped from the cells by treatment with trypsin and could then infect fresh monolayers. Measurement of attachment kinetics during centrifugation showed that cells passed through three different susceptibility states. Only productive binding occurred in the first 20 min; cells then entered a refractory state during which no attachment took place At about 45 min, attachment recommenced but this allowed only unproductive binding. Induced movement of cell surface structures may enhance infection by promoting specific or non-specific interactions. Failure of ingestion may result from insufficient cell 'receptors' for circumferential binding of the whole chlamydial surface so that engulfment cannot take place.", "contents": "Modulation by centrifugation of cell susceptibility to chlamydial infection. Enhancement of chlamydial infection of cell monolayers by centrifugation was shown to depend on induced cell surface changes. Evidence for this came from analysis of two forms of organism attachment which take place during centrifugation. In 'productive binding', organisms attached to cells and then entered and infected them. In 'unproductive binding', organisms became attached to cells but were not ingested. These organisms could be stripped from the cells by treatment with trypsin and could then infect fresh monolayers. Measurement of attachment kinetics during centrifugation showed that cells passed through three different susceptibility states. Only productive binding occurred in the first 20 min; cells then entered a refractory state during which no attachment took place At about 45 min, attachment recommenced but this allowed only unproductive binding. Induced movement of cell surface structures may enhance infection by promoting specific or non-specific interactions. Failure of ingestion may result from insufficient cell 'receptors' for circumferential binding of the whole chlamydial surface so that engulfment cannot take place.", "PMID": 458425} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13235", "title": "Object perception and motion in infants.", "content": "Male and female infants 10 weeks of age (N = 24) were presented with two distinctively patterned objects in either moving or stationary form. Measures of visual regard indicated the infants were able to discriminate between the objects whether the objects were stationary or in motion. The results are contrasted to T. G. R. Bower's assessment of infants' utilization of features in perceiving moving objects. The results are also compared to those of an earlier study which employed an operant rather than a preference technique to investigate this same problem.", "contents": "Object perception and motion in infants. Male and female infants 10 weeks of age (N = 24) were presented with two distinctively patterned objects in either moving or stationary form. Measures of visual regard indicated the infants were able to discriminate between the objects whether the objects were stationary or in motion. The results are contrasted to T. G. R. Bower's assessment of infants' utilization of features in perceiving moving objects. The results are also compared to those of an earlier study which employed an operant rather than a preference technique to investigate this same problem.", "PMID": 458426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13236", "title": "The effects of stomach loads of hypertonic NaCl on thyroidectomized prepubescent rats.", "content": "Prepubescent male and female rats (N = 56) were surgically thyroidectomized and given stomach loads of .9% or 6.0% NaCl. The 6.0% NaCl, thyroidectomized S s responded by decreasing food intake and losing weight 24 hours after loading. Normal S s did not, and no sex difference was found. The .9% NaCl thyroidectomized S s drank significantly less than the normals. The results were interpreted in terms of thyroid hormone activity which affects renal function.", "contents": "The effects of stomach loads of hypertonic NaCl on thyroidectomized prepubescent rats. Prepubescent male and female rats (N = 56) were surgically thyroidectomized and given stomach loads of .9% or 6.0% NaCl. The 6.0% NaCl, thyroidectomized S s responded by decreasing food intake and losing weight 24 hours after loading. Normal S s did not, and no sex difference was found. The .9% NaCl thyroidectomized S s drank significantly less than the normals. The results were interpreted in terms of thyroid hormone activity which affects renal function.", "PMID": 458427} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13237", "title": "Behavioral and neuroendocrine effects of low dose ET-495: antagonism by haloperidol.", "content": "Low doses of the dopamine agonist ET-495 were administered to nonpsychotic volunteer subjects by slow intravenous infusion, followed by a bolus of 1.5--2.5 mg haloperidol. ET-495 caused progressive dysphoria and sedation (in some cases, light sleep), effects believed to be mediated by dopaminergic inhibition. However, ET-495 also elevated growth hormone and suppressed prolactin, typical responses to dopamine agonist activity. Haloperidol reversed both the sedation and prolactin suppression induced by ET-495. These findings suggest: (1) that the sedation and hormonal responses were produced by stimulation of dopamine receptors; (2) that neurotransmitter systems mediating behavioral and neuroendocrine regulation may have differential neuropharmacological characteristics.", "contents": "Behavioral and neuroendocrine effects of low dose ET-495: antagonism by haloperidol. Low doses of the dopamine agonist ET-495 were administered to nonpsychotic volunteer subjects by slow intravenous infusion, followed by a bolus of 1.5--2.5 mg haloperidol. ET-495 caused progressive dysphoria and sedation (in some cases, light sleep), effects believed to be mediated by dopaminergic inhibition. However, ET-495 also elevated growth hormone and suppressed prolactin, typical responses to dopamine agonist activity. Haloperidol reversed both the sedation and prolactin suppression induced by ET-495. These findings suggest: (1) that the sedation and hormonal responses were produced by stimulation of dopamine receptors; (2) that neurotransmitter systems mediating behavioral and neuroendocrine regulation may have differential neuropharmacological characteristics.", "PMID": 458429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13238", "title": "In vitro studies on the possible effects of 1-aminoadamantanes on the serotonergic system in M. Parkinson.", "content": "Synaptosomes, synaptic vesicles, and membranes were isolated from rat brain homogenates by differential and density gradient centrifugation in sucrose. Synaptosomes incorporated serotonin (5-HT) with two different uptake mechanisms, high affinity: Kt1 = 47 nM and low affinity: Kt2 = 660 nM. Both uptake mechanisms are non-competitively inhibited by the potential antiparkinson drugs 1-aminoadamantane (amantadine, D 1: Ki1 = 57 microM, Ki2 = 96 microM) and 1-amino-3,5-dimethyladamantane (memantine, D 145: Ki1 = 97 microM, Ki2 = 150 microM). The incorporated 5-HT is released from synaptosomes on incubation with high concentrations (0.5--5 mM) of the drugs or on electrical stimulation with rectangular pulses of alternating polarity. Subthreshold concentrations of these drugs (5--50 microM) which are too low to liberate 5-HT increase the electrically stimulated release of 5-HT.--The effect of D 1, D 145, and electrical stimulation on DA release parallels the results observed with 5-HT. The uptake of 5-HT into isolated synaptic vesicles and the binding to isolated nerve ending membranes is non-competitively inhibited by 1-aminoadamantanes. D 145 inhibits the binding of 5-HT to membranes more effectively (Ki = 0.95 mM) than its uptake into vesicles (Ki = 1.2 mM) contrasting with D 1 which is a weaker inhibitor affecting vesicular uptake (Ki = 2.5 mM) slightly more than membrane binding (Ki = 3.1 mM). The results obtained suggest that, in addition to other mechanisms like receptor stimulation, 1-aminoadamantanes may act in parkinsonian patients by enriching the transmitter content in the synaptic cleft.", "contents": "In vitro studies on the possible effects of 1-aminoadamantanes on the serotonergic system in M. Parkinson. Synaptosomes, synaptic vesicles, and membranes were isolated from rat brain homogenates by differential and density gradient centrifugation in sucrose. Synaptosomes incorporated serotonin (5-HT) with two different uptake mechanisms, high affinity: Kt1 = 47 nM and low affinity: Kt2 = 660 nM. Both uptake mechanisms are non-competitively inhibited by the potential antiparkinson drugs 1-aminoadamantane (amantadine, D 1: Ki1 = 57 microM, Ki2 = 96 microM) and 1-amino-3,5-dimethyladamantane (memantine, D 145: Ki1 = 97 microM, Ki2 = 150 microM). The incorporated 5-HT is released from synaptosomes on incubation with high concentrations (0.5--5 mM) of the drugs or on electrical stimulation with rectangular pulses of alternating polarity. Subthreshold concentrations of these drugs (5--50 microM) which are too low to liberate 5-HT increase the electrically stimulated release of 5-HT.--The effect of D 1, D 145, and electrical stimulation on DA release parallels the results observed with 5-HT. The uptake of 5-HT into isolated synaptic vesicles and the binding to isolated nerve ending membranes is non-competitively inhibited by 1-aminoadamantanes. D 145 inhibits the binding of 5-HT to membranes more effectively (Ki = 0.95 mM) than its uptake into vesicles (Ki = 1.2 mM) contrasting with D 1 which is a weaker inhibitor affecting vesicular uptake (Ki = 2.5 mM) slightly more than membrane binding (Ki = 3.1 mM). The results obtained suggest that, in addition to other mechanisms like receptor stimulation, 1-aminoadamantanes may act in parkinsonian patients by enriching the transmitter content in the synaptic cleft.", "PMID": 458430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13239", "title": "Dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in the striatum in Parkinson's disease.", "content": "Dopamine (DA) sensitive adenylate cyclase activity was measured in homogenates of caudate nucleus and putamen from frozen brain of eight Parkinsonian patients and nine controls. In the control group, there was no difference in enzyme activity in respect to sex or age (21--77 years old). Caudate nucleus and putamen exhibited similar mean activity. In the Parkinsonian group, there was a significant decrease in both basal (by 50%) and DA stimulated (by 80%) activities compared with that of control group. This suggests that there may exist a functional disturbance in the postsynaptic (post-DA-nergic) region in the striatum of patients with Parkinson's disease; in addition, the decrease in basal as well as DA stimulated activity as measured in homogenates may not be the biochemical substrate for the hypothetical \"denervation supersensitivity\" expected to occur in Parkinson's disease.", "contents": "Dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in the striatum in Parkinson's disease. Dopamine (DA) sensitive adenylate cyclase activity was measured in homogenates of caudate nucleus and putamen from frozen brain of eight Parkinsonian patients and nine controls. In the control group, there was no difference in enzyme activity in respect to sex or age (21--77 years old). Caudate nucleus and putamen exhibited similar mean activity. In the Parkinsonian group, there was a significant decrease in both basal (by 50%) and DA stimulated (by 80%) activities compared with that of control group. This suggests that there may exist a functional disturbance in the postsynaptic (post-DA-nergic) region in the striatum of patients with Parkinson's disease; in addition, the decrease in basal as well as DA stimulated activity as measured in homogenates may not be the biochemical substrate for the hypothetical \"denervation supersensitivity\" expected to occur in Parkinson's disease.", "PMID": 458431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13240", "title": "Brain norepinephrine, dopamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in magnesium-deprivation encephalopathy in rats.", "content": "The effect of Mg deficiency on the regional concentrations of norepinephrine, dopamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the brain was studied in clinically symptomatic young rats fed a diet low in magnesium for 10 days. Decreases in magnesium concentration in the brain were not accompanied by any significant changes in these monoamines.", "contents": "Brain norepinephrine, dopamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in magnesium-deprivation encephalopathy in rats. The effect of Mg deficiency on the regional concentrations of norepinephrine, dopamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the brain was studied in clinically symptomatic young rats fed a diet low in magnesium for 10 days. Decreases in magnesium concentration in the brain were not accompanied by any significant changes in these monoamines.", "PMID": 458432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13241", "title": "Distribution of PNMT and epinephrine in the medulla oblongata of normotensive and spontaneous hypertensive rats.", "content": "The distribution of the Epinephrine forming enzyme (PNMT) activity and Epinephrine (E) levels was investigated in the medulla oblongata of spontaneous hypertensive rats (SH-rats) and in two normotensive strains, namely Wistar Kyoto rats (WK-rats) and Wistar rats. The PNMT activity increases progressively from the caudal to rostral parts in the C1 and C2 regions of the medulla oblongata. The enzyme activity and the E levels are in all parts of the C1 and C2 regions higher in Wistar rats than in WK-rats. The PNMT activity in all parts of the C2 region (with the exception of the caudal region), and in the middle part of the C1 region is higher in SH-rats than in WK-rats. The E levels in the SH-rats are higher than in WK-rats in the mediocaudal parts of the C2 and C1 regions.", "contents": "Distribution of PNMT and epinephrine in the medulla oblongata of normotensive and spontaneous hypertensive rats. The distribution of the Epinephrine forming enzyme (PNMT) activity and Epinephrine (E) levels was investigated in the medulla oblongata of spontaneous hypertensive rats (SH-rats) and in two normotensive strains, namely Wistar Kyoto rats (WK-rats) and Wistar rats. The PNMT activity increases progressively from the caudal to rostral parts in the C1 and C2 regions of the medulla oblongata. The enzyme activity and the E levels are in all parts of the C1 and C2 regions higher in Wistar rats than in WK-rats. The PNMT activity in all parts of the C2 region (with the exception of the caudal region), and in the middle part of the C1 region is higher in SH-rats than in WK-rats. The E levels in the SH-rats are higher than in WK-rats in the mediocaudal parts of the C2 and C1 regions.", "PMID": 458433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13242", "title": "Effects of light and of testosterone derivatives or antiandrogens on the secretory content of the subcommissural organ of the quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica.", "content": "Photosensitivity of the quail subcommissural organ (SCO) is demonstrated. When the birds are submitted to continuous light the SCO cells appear depleted in secretory material and the enzyme activities investigated are of greater intensity. Such a diminished secretory content is observed in birds exposed to short daylength when they are injected with testosterone derivatives. Besides, injections of antiandrogenic compounds in continuously illuminated quails abolish the decrease of the secretory material induced by photostimulation. These results indicate that the SCO responsiveness to light appears to be mediated by some hormonal mechanism. Moreover it is more than a generalized metabolic effect: the response to antiandrogen injections suggests indeed that the SCO is a likely target organ for hormonal action.", "contents": "Effects of light and of testosterone derivatives or antiandrogens on the secretory content of the subcommissural organ of the quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica. Photosensitivity of the quail subcommissural organ (SCO) is demonstrated. When the birds are submitted to continuous light the SCO cells appear depleted in secretory material and the enzyme activities investigated are of greater intensity. Such a diminished secretory content is observed in birds exposed to short daylength when they are injected with testosterone derivatives. Besides, injections of antiandrogenic compounds in continuously illuminated quails abolish the decrease of the secretory material induced by photostimulation. These results indicate that the SCO responsiveness to light appears to be mediated by some hormonal mechanism. Moreover it is more than a generalized metabolic effect: the response to antiandrogen injections suggests indeed that the SCO is a likely target organ for hormonal action.", "PMID": 458434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13243", "title": "Ultrastructure and possible function of an atrial paraganglion not directly related to atrial ganglion in the albino mouse.", "content": "The ultrastructure of a paraganglion found in right atrium of albino mouse close to the superior cava vein is described. A capillary, which occupied the central part of the paraganglion, was surrounded by three chromaffin cells. Two other chromaffin cells were also present, but neither nerve fibers nor nerve endings were seen. The possible physiological role of paraganglia is discussed.", "contents": "Ultrastructure and possible function of an atrial paraganglion not directly related to atrial ganglion in the albino mouse. The ultrastructure of a paraganglion found in right atrium of albino mouse close to the superior cava vein is described. A capillary, which occupied the central part of the paraganglion, was surrounded by three chromaffin cells. Two other chromaffin cells were also present, but neither nerve fibers nor nerve endings were seen. The possible physiological role of paraganglia is discussed.", "PMID": 458435} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13244", "title": "Biochemical studies of taste sensation. VII. Enhancement of taste stimulus binding to a catfish taste receptor preparation by prior exposure to the stimulus.", "content": "The taste receptor membrane fraction (Fraction P2) was prepared from a homogenate of the taste tissue of the channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus. This included the rostral, dorsal, and dorsolateral surfaces of the catfish in addition to those of the barbels. The yield of Fraction P2 is 4-7 mg protein from an individual fish, with a purification averaging 8- to 15-fold over that of the crude whole homogenate and essentially quantitative recovery of binding activity in Fraction P2. Treatment of Fraction P2 in vitro with a high concentration of the taste stimulus molecule L-alanine led to a several-fold enhancement of binding activity. Enhancement of the binding of 3H L-alanine was observed after treatment with unlabeled 10 mM L-alanine and removal of the L-alanine by washing. Enhancement occurred whether the preparation was stored frozen (-65 degrees C) for an extended period in the presence of the L-alanine, or merely exposed to it in the cold without freezing. D-Alanine enhanced the binding activity of 3H L-alanine to about 60% of the level induced by L-alanine. Nonspecific binding of 3H L-alanine was unaffected by the treatment. Scatchard analyses of saturation curves for binding of 3H L-alanine to freshly prepared Fraction P2 and to L-alanine-treated Fraction P2 revealed no change in the KD value, but a several-fold increase occurred in the amount bound. Binding activity is operationally defined. Because the enhancement observed here is reminiscent of an increase in transport due to a countertransport effect, further studies were carried out to examine whether the phenomenon reflects transport or true binding. The measured binding was not increased in the presence of Na+, indicating that it is not due to an Na+-coupled transport of L-alanine. When Fraction P2 was preloaded with L-alanine (10(-6)--10(-2) M) prior to assay, no stimulation of binding was observed; instead, binding decreased. This result is consistent with a true binding phenomenon but not with a carrier-mediated transport process to explain the enhancement phenomenon. Binding assays carried out over a range of osmolarities revealed decreased binding at high osmotic strengths, suggesting that a significant portion of the ligand might be contained in vesicles. It is postulated that \"hidden\" or \"buried\" receptor sites exist in the Fraction P2 as isolated, and that these are exposed upon perturbation of the membrane structure by a high ligand concentration.", "contents": "Biochemical studies of taste sensation. VII. Enhancement of taste stimulus binding to a catfish taste receptor preparation by prior exposure to the stimulus. The taste receptor membrane fraction (Fraction P2) was prepared from a homogenate of the taste tissue of the channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus. This included the rostral, dorsal, and dorsolateral surfaces of the catfish in addition to those of the barbels. The yield of Fraction P2 is 4-7 mg protein from an individual fish, with a purification averaging 8- to 15-fold over that of the crude whole homogenate and essentially quantitative recovery of binding activity in Fraction P2. Treatment of Fraction P2 in vitro with a high concentration of the taste stimulus molecule L-alanine led to a several-fold enhancement of binding activity. Enhancement of the binding of 3H L-alanine was observed after treatment with unlabeled 10 mM L-alanine and removal of the L-alanine by washing. Enhancement occurred whether the preparation was stored frozen (-65 degrees C) for an extended period in the presence of the L-alanine, or merely exposed to it in the cold without freezing. D-Alanine enhanced the binding activity of 3H L-alanine to about 60% of the level induced by L-alanine. Nonspecific binding of 3H L-alanine was unaffected by the treatment. Scatchard analyses of saturation curves for binding of 3H L-alanine to freshly prepared Fraction P2 and to L-alanine-treated Fraction P2 revealed no change in the KD value, but a several-fold increase occurred in the amount bound. Binding activity is operationally defined. Because the enhancement observed here is reminiscent of an increase in transport due to a countertransport effect, further studies were carried out to examine whether the phenomenon reflects transport or true binding. The measured binding was not increased in the presence of Na+, indicating that it is not due to an Na+-coupled transport of L-alanine. When Fraction P2 was preloaded with L-alanine (10(-6)--10(-2) M) prior to assay, no stimulation of binding was observed; instead, binding decreased. This result is consistent with a true binding phenomenon but not with a carrier-mediated transport process to explain the enhancement phenomenon. Binding assays carried out over a range of osmolarities revealed decreased binding at high osmotic strengths, suggesting that a significant portion of the ligand might be contained in vesicles. It is postulated that \"hidden\" or \"buried\" receptor sites exist in the Fraction P2 as isolated, and that these are exposed upon perturbation of the membrane structure by a high ligand concentration.", "PMID": 458436} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13245", "title": "Central inhibition of an identified mechanosensory interneuron in the crayfish.", "content": "Inhibitory input from crayfish mechanoreceptors is mediated polysynaptically to sensory interneurons. An identifiable sensory interneuron, the caudal photoreceptor (CPR), has been used as a model system to characterize inhibitory intermediate cells. A survey of the abdominal connectives, by antidromic stimulation, has identified eleven inhibitory cells, some of which also function as ascending sensory interneurons. These results indicate that lateral interactions within networks of mechanosensory interneurons form an integral part of the information processing mechanisms.", "contents": "Central inhibition of an identified mechanosensory interneuron in the crayfish. Inhibitory input from crayfish mechanoreceptors is mediated polysynaptically to sensory interneurons. An identifiable sensory interneuron, the caudal photoreceptor (CPR), has been used as a model system to characterize inhibitory intermediate cells. A survey of the abdominal connectives, by antidromic stimulation, has identified eleven inhibitory cells, some of which also function as ascending sensory interneurons. These results indicate that lateral interactions within networks of mechanosensory interneurons form an integral part of the information processing mechanisms.", "PMID": 458437} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13246", "title": "L9 modulation of gill withdrawal reflex habituation in Aplysia.", "content": "Repeated tactile stimulation of the siphon in Aphysia normally results in habituation of the gill withdrawal reflex and a concomitant decrease in the amplitude of the excitatory synaptic input ot gill motor neurons in the abdominal ganglion. It was found, however, that induced low-level tonic activity in motor neuron L9, which does not itself elicit a gill withdrawal movement, prevented habituation of the reflex from occurring. Further, in preparations already habituated, this tonic low-level activity brought about a reversal of habituation. Although tonic L9 activity prevented the occurrence of habituation or brought about its reversal, it did not interfere with the synaptic decremental process which normally accompanies gill reflex habituation. Motor neurons L7 and LDG1 were found not to possess this ability of L9 to modulate gill reflex habituation. Evidence suggests that L9's modulatory effect is mediated in the periphery, in the gill and not centrally in the abdominal ganglion.", "contents": "L9 modulation of gill withdrawal reflex habituation in Aplysia. Repeated tactile stimulation of the siphon in Aphysia normally results in habituation of the gill withdrawal reflex and a concomitant decrease in the amplitude of the excitatory synaptic input ot gill motor neurons in the abdominal ganglion. It was found, however, that induced low-level tonic activity in motor neuron L9, which does not itself elicit a gill withdrawal movement, prevented habituation of the reflex from occurring. Further, in preparations already habituated, this tonic low-level activity brought about a reversal of habituation. Although tonic L9 activity prevented the occurrence of habituation or brought about its reversal, it did not interfere with the synaptic decremental process which normally accompanies gill reflex habituation. Motor neurons L7 and LDG1 were found not to possess this ability of L9 to modulate gill reflex habituation. Evidence suggests that L9's modulatory effect is mediated in the periphery, in the gill and not centrally in the abdominal ganglion.", "PMID": 458438} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13247", "title": "An endogenous motor program for sand crab uropods.", "content": "A stereotyped pattern of spontaneous, rhythmic bursting in motoneurons of three principal uropod muscles in the sand carb Emerita analoga has been recorded from a deafferented chain of the four most-posterior abdominal ganglia. This endogenous motor program resembles the electromyogram pattern recorded from return-stroke and power-stroke muscles in swimming crabs in that (1) latencies of power-stroke bursts and burst periods are positively correlated with each other and (2) durations of power-stroke bursts are brief and nearly invarient. The endogenous program differs from the electromyogram pattern in having longer periods and return-stroke bursts which are brief and sporadic. The neural oscillator underlying the endogenous motor program, therefore, appears to drive the power stroke. Circumstantial evidence suggests that it may also inhibit return stroke motoneurons concurrently with excitation of the power-stroke excitor.", "contents": "An endogenous motor program for sand crab uropods. A stereotyped pattern of spontaneous, rhythmic bursting in motoneurons of three principal uropod muscles in the sand carb Emerita analoga has been recorded from a deafferented chain of the four most-posterior abdominal ganglia. This endogenous motor program resembles the electromyogram pattern recorded from return-stroke and power-stroke muscles in swimming crabs in that (1) latencies of power-stroke bursts and burst periods are positively correlated with each other and (2) durations of power-stroke bursts are brief and nearly invarient. The endogenous program differs from the electromyogram pattern in having longer periods and return-stroke bursts which are brief and sporadic. The neural oscillator underlying the endogenous motor program, therefore, appears to drive the power stroke. Circumstantial evidence suggests that it may also inhibit return stroke motoneurons concurrently with excitation of the power-stroke excitor.", "PMID": 458439} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13248", "title": "Dopamine beta-hydroxylase distribution in density gradients: physiological and artefactual implications.", "content": "Knowledge of the vesicular origin of circulating dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DbetaH) is indispensable for any attempts to explain the parallelism or lack of it between circulating enzyme and catecholamines as they may relate to physiological stress, forms of hypertension, neurological disorders, and the response to pharmacological agents. The present study represents an effort to evaluate and to place in proper perspective data based on the DbetaH activity found in the region of the light vesicle peak of noradrenaline (NA), which is used as a quantitative measure of a population of small terminal vesicles. Distributions of vesicles and subvesicular components are compared with DbetaH and NA in sucrose-D2O density gradients used to prepare relatively pure fractions of large dense cored vesicles (LDV) from bovine splenic nerve. Although NA in sedimentable particles of the light vesicle peak is likely to be a valid measure of a small vesicle population, the following is demonstrated: (1) A substantial fraction (25%-37%) of the total sedimentable DbetaH activity can be proven to distribute in the region of the light vesicle peak from a tissue with an insignificant small vesicle population. Based on studies of vesicles from sequential nerve segments, this enzyme activity probably corresponds to a population of \"immature\" LDV which are undergoing axoplasmic transport and have not synthesized their full complement of transmitter. (2) Physical lysis which depletes the matrix of LDV causes redistribution of DbetaH activity from the heavy vesicle peak into the region of the light vesicle peak. Analogously, DbetaH associated with exocytosed LDV and retrograde transport particles is also likely to contaminate the region of the light vesicle peak. (3) Based on available data, it can be calculated that each small dense cored vesicle could contain only 0.1-0.5 molecules of DbetaH and that a contamination of only 0.016% LDV can account for all of the DbetaH reported to occur in the light vesicle peak of normal rat vas deferens preparations.", "contents": "Dopamine beta-hydroxylase distribution in density gradients: physiological and artefactual implications. Knowledge of the vesicular origin of circulating dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DbetaH) is indispensable for any attempts to explain the parallelism or lack of it between circulating enzyme and catecholamines as they may relate to physiological stress, forms of hypertension, neurological disorders, and the response to pharmacological agents. The present study represents an effort to evaluate and to place in proper perspective data based on the DbetaH activity found in the region of the light vesicle peak of noradrenaline (NA), which is used as a quantitative measure of a population of small terminal vesicles. Distributions of vesicles and subvesicular components are compared with DbetaH and NA in sucrose-D2O density gradients used to prepare relatively pure fractions of large dense cored vesicles (LDV) from bovine splenic nerve. Although NA in sedimentable particles of the light vesicle peak is likely to be a valid measure of a small vesicle population, the following is demonstrated: (1) A substantial fraction (25%-37%) of the total sedimentable DbetaH activity can be proven to distribute in the region of the light vesicle peak from a tissue with an insignificant small vesicle population. Based on studies of vesicles from sequential nerve segments, this enzyme activity probably corresponds to a population of \"immature\" LDV which are undergoing axoplasmic transport and have not synthesized their full complement of transmitter. (2) Physical lysis which depletes the matrix of LDV causes redistribution of DbetaH activity from the heavy vesicle peak into the region of the light vesicle peak. Analogously, DbetaH associated with exocytosed LDV and retrograde transport particles is also likely to contaminate the region of the light vesicle peak. (3) Based on available data, it can be calculated that each small dense cored vesicle could contain only 0.1-0.5 molecules of DbetaH and that a contamination of only 0.016% LDV can account for all of the DbetaH reported to occur in the light vesicle peak of normal rat vas deferens preparations.", "PMID": 458440} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13249", "title": "Catecholamine-rich cells and varicosities in bovine splenic nerve, vesicle contents and evidence for exocytosis.", "content": "The bovine splenic nerve trunk contains mast cells, ganglion cells, small intensely fluorescent (SIF) cells, and varicosities which exhibit a brilliant fluorescence characteristic for noradrenaline (NA) and dopamine (DA) after formaldehyde exposure. All these catecholamine-rich structures could contribute particles to isolated nerve vesicle fractions. Mast cells are recognized ultrastructurally by their large (300-800 nm) dense granules. SIF cells may be represented by cells and processes containing dense cored vesicles (120-140 nm) which are larger than the typical vesicles in axons and terminals. Terminal-like areas with typical large dense cored vesicles (LDV, 75 nm) and small dense cored vesicles (SDV, 45-55 nm) probably correspond to the fluorescent varicosities. The LDV constitute about 40% of all vesicles in terminal-like areas and terminals. Their staining properties indicate the presence of protein, phospholipids, and ATP. Tyramine depletes NA without loss of matrix density. The LDV can fuse with the terminal membrane, and released material outside omega profiles is interpreted to depict exocytosis. Large and small vesicles are easily distinguished from the very large mast cell granules and the moderately dense Schwann cell vesicles. Neither appear to contaminate the LDV fractions but the latter may contain a small population of SIF cell vesicles. Golgi vesicles from the Schwann cells mainly occur in the lighter zones of the gradient.", "contents": "Catecholamine-rich cells and varicosities in bovine splenic nerve, vesicle contents and evidence for exocytosis. The bovine splenic nerve trunk contains mast cells, ganglion cells, small intensely fluorescent (SIF) cells, and varicosities which exhibit a brilliant fluorescence characteristic for noradrenaline (NA) and dopamine (DA) after formaldehyde exposure. All these catecholamine-rich structures could contribute particles to isolated nerve vesicle fractions. Mast cells are recognized ultrastructurally by their large (300-800 nm) dense granules. SIF cells may be represented by cells and processes containing dense cored vesicles (120-140 nm) which are larger than the typical vesicles in axons and terminals. Terminal-like areas with typical large dense cored vesicles (LDV, 75 nm) and small dense cored vesicles (SDV, 45-55 nm) probably correspond to the fluorescent varicosities. The LDV constitute about 40% of all vesicles in terminal-like areas and terminals. Their staining properties indicate the presence of protein, phospholipids, and ATP. Tyramine depletes NA without loss of matrix density. The LDV can fuse with the terminal membrane, and released material outside omega profiles is interpreted to depict exocytosis. Large and small vesicles are easily distinguished from the very large mast cell granules and the moderately dense Schwann cell vesicles. Neither appear to contaminate the LDV fractions but the latter may contain a small population of SIF cell vesicles. Golgi vesicles from the Schwann cells mainly occur in the lighter zones of the gradient.", "PMID": 458441} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13250", "title": "Duplication of a spontaneously active neuron in Aplysia: electrical coupling and effects of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor.", "content": "An abdominal ganglion from an Aplysia californica is described, in which cell R15 has anomalously duplicated. The two cells exhibited a high degree of electrical coupling, assuring functional synchrony of output in the cells, which are characterized by a complex firing pattern. Exposure of this ganglion to the phosphodiesterase inhibitor IBMX caused a more altered firing rhythm in one of the cells, as well as an enhanced inhibitory component associated with the coupling potentials between cells, resulting in a loss of synchrony between the two cells.", "contents": "Duplication of a spontaneously active neuron in Aplysia: electrical coupling and effects of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. An abdominal ganglion from an Aplysia californica is described, in which cell R15 has anomalously duplicated. The two cells exhibited a high degree of electrical coupling, assuring functional synchrony of output in the cells, which are characterized by a complex firing pattern. Exposure of this ganglion to the phosphodiesterase inhibitor IBMX caused a more altered firing rhythm in one of the cells, as well as an enhanced inhibitory component associated with the coupling potentials between cells, resulting in a loss of synchrony between the two cells.", "PMID": 458442} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13251", "title": "Binding of N-methyl isatin beta-thiosemicarbazone-copper complexes to proteins and nucleic acids.", "content": "N-Methyl isatin beta-thiosemicarbazone-copper complexes interact with nucleic acids and proteins as shown by ultraviolet (UV) and visible spectroscopy and Sephadex exclusion chromatography. The Cu++ ions are most effective; Co++ ions have less albeit significant activity. Chelating agents, such as Tris and histidine, high NaCl concentration, and dimethyl sulfoxide reduce the binding of the drug-metal complex. The binding constant of the drug-copper complex to calf-thymus DNA was calculated to range between 6.9 x 10(4) and 2.7 x 10(5) M-1.", "contents": "Binding of N-methyl isatin beta-thiosemicarbazone-copper complexes to proteins and nucleic acids. N-Methyl isatin beta-thiosemicarbazone-copper complexes interact with nucleic acids and proteins as shown by ultraviolet (UV) and visible spectroscopy and Sephadex exclusion chromatography. The Cu++ ions are most effective; Co++ ions have less albeit significant activity. Chelating agents, such as Tris and histidine, high NaCl concentration, and dimethyl sulfoxide reduce the binding of the drug-metal complex. The binding constant of the drug-copper complex to calf-thymus DNA was calculated to range between 6.9 x 10(4) and 2.7 x 10(5) M-1.", "PMID": 458443} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13252", "title": "Moya-moya disease: clinical and pathological report of a case with associated myopathy.", "content": "A British born white man, age 51 years, presented with cerebrovascular insuffciency, and was found radiologically to have moya-moya disease. He also suffered from a let onset type of progressive myopathy. Five months after the first signs of cerebrovascular disease he died of massive cerebellar infarction. At necropsy the brain showed multiple old and recent infarctions. The anterior cerebral, middle cerebral, and posterior communicating arteries showed segments of narrowing and occlusion by delicate connective tissue, with marked thickening and folding of the elastic lamina. Many dilated thin-walled vessels without a muscle layer and with a poorly formed elastic lamina were present in the subarachnoid space, these probably being newly formed collateral vessels. The cause of the occlusive lesions affecting the cerebral arteries is not known but the morphological appearances do not fall within any known aetiology. It seems that moya-moya disease could be regarded as a distinct entity.", "contents": "Moya-moya disease: clinical and pathological report of a case with associated myopathy. A British born white man, age 51 years, presented with cerebrovascular insuffciency, and was found radiologically to have moya-moya disease. He also suffered from a let onset type of progressive myopathy. Five months after the first signs of cerebrovascular disease he died of massive cerebellar infarction. At necropsy the brain showed multiple old and recent infarctions. The anterior cerebral, middle cerebral, and posterior communicating arteries showed segments of narrowing and occlusion by delicate connective tissue, with marked thickening and folding of the elastic lamina. Many dilated thin-walled vessels without a muscle layer and with a poorly formed elastic lamina were present in the subarachnoid space, these probably being newly formed collateral vessels. The cause of the occlusive lesions affecting the cerebral arteries is not known but the morphological appearances do not fall within any known aetiology. It seems that moya-moya disease could be regarded as a distinct entity.", "PMID": 458476} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13253", "title": "Correlation of CAT scan and visual field defects in vascular lesions of the posterior visual pathways.", "content": "Thirty-nine patients with various types of isolated homonymous hemianopias resulting from ischaemic lesions in the posterior parts of the cerebral hemisphere was examined by CAT scanning. Most had localised low density lesions withing the distribution of the posterior cerebral artery. The location of the lesion (deduced from a separate anatomical study of postmortem brain cut in the plane of the CAT scanner) was correlated with visual field defects. Lesions giving rise to quadrantic defects were smaller than those causing total hemianopias; lower quadrantic defects tended to occur in superior cuts and vice versa. Macular sparing was associated with survival of the occipital pole in some instances. Bilateral cases had a higher prevalence of associated defects.", "contents": "Correlation of CAT scan and visual field defects in vascular lesions of the posterior visual pathways. Thirty-nine patients with various types of isolated homonymous hemianopias resulting from ischaemic lesions in the posterior parts of the cerebral hemisphere was examined by CAT scanning. Most had localised low density lesions withing the distribution of the posterior cerebral artery. The location of the lesion (deduced from a separate anatomical study of postmortem brain cut in the plane of the CAT scanner) was correlated with visual field defects. Lesions giving rise to quadrantic defects were smaller than those causing total hemianopias; lower quadrantic defects tended to occur in superior cuts and vice versa. Macular sparing was associated with survival of the occipital pole in some instances. Bilateral cases had a higher prevalence of associated defects.", "PMID": 458477} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13254", "title": "Restitution of visual function in patients with cerebral blindness.", "content": "Patients with postchiasmatic visual field defects were trained at the border of their visual field. Using a psychophysical method, light-difference thresholds were determined repeatedly in this visual field area. Improvement in contrast sensitivity and increase in size of the visual field could be obtained by this training procedure. The improvement was confined to the trained visual field area and showed interocular transfer indicating its central nature. Althoughh only contrast sensitivity was trained, the observed improvement was not limited to this visual function. Visual acutity, critical flicker fusion, and colour perception also showed and improvement suggesting an association of these functions. The improvement was restricted to the training period-no spontaneous recovery was observed between or after the periods of training. It is suggested that a lesion in the central visual system does not always result in a complete and permanent loss of function. The critical level of function that normally has to be reached for sufficient neuronal sensitivity may be obtained by systematic visual stimulation in the area between the intact and blind parts of the visual field. This increase in neuronal sensitivity leads to an improvement in visual performance.", "contents": "Restitution of visual function in patients with cerebral blindness. Patients with postchiasmatic visual field defects were trained at the border of their visual field. Using a psychophysical method, light-difference thresholds were determined repeatedly in this visual field area. Improvement in contrast sensitivity and increase in size of the visual field could be obtained by this training procedure. The improvement was confined to the trained visual field area and showed interocular transfer indicating its central nature. Althoughh only contrast sensitivity was trained, the observed improvement was not limited to this visual function. Visual acutity, critical flicker fusion, and colour perception also showed and improvement suggesting an association of these functions. The improvement was restricted to the training period-no spontaneous recovery was observed between or after the periods of training. It is suggested that a lesion in the central visual system does not always result in a complete and permanent loss of function. The critical level of function that normally has to be reached for sufficient neuronal sensitivity may be obtained by systematic visual stimulation in the area between the intact and blind parts of the visual field. This increase in neuronal sensitivity leads to an improvement in visual performance.", "PMID": 458478} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13255", "title": "Visual and somatosensory evoked cortical potentials in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "The diagnostic value of the pattern reversal evoked cortical potential (VEP) and the somatosensory evoked cortical potential (SEP) has been compared in 50 patients with established or suspected multiple sclerosis. A prolonged latency of VEP was found in 96% of definite cases of multiple sclerosis, 58% of probable cases, and 20% of possible cases. A prolonged latency of SEP by stimulation of median or peroneal nerves or both was found in 86% of definite cases of multiple sclerosis, 83% of probable cases, and 50% of possibe cases. When combining the results of all three tests the diagnostic yield increased to 100%, 92%, and 50%, respectively.", "contents": "Visual and somatosensory evoked cortical potentials in multiple sclerosis. The diagnostic value of the pattern reversal evoked cortical potential (VEP) and the somatosensory evoked cortical potential (SEP) has been compared in 50 patients with established or suspected multiple sclerosis. A prolonged latency of VEP was found in 96% of definite cases of multiple sclerosis, 58% of probable cases, and 20% of possible cases. A prolonged latency of SEP by stimulation of median or peroneal nerves or both was found in 86% of definite cases of multiple sclerosis, 83% of probable cases, and 50% of possibe cases. When combining the results of all three tests the diagnostic yield increased to 100%, 92%, and 50%, respectively.", "PMID": 458479} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13256", "title": "Stapedius reflex in multiple sclerosis.", "content": "An analysis was carried out of recordings of the crossed stapedial reflex response in a series of normal subjects and 30 patients with multiple sclerosis. Parameters measured included latency, contraction time, amplitude, and relaxation time. Criteria derived from the normal group and applied to the multiple sclerosis group showed clear evidence of abnormality in 10 patients. This can be attributed to lesions in the pathways of the second and third order neurones in the trapezoid body and superior olivary complex. Present evidence suggests that further refinements in the measurement technique might significantly increase the detection rate of abnormalities in multiple sclerosis.", "contents": "Stapedius reflex in multiple sclerosis. An analysis was carried out of recordings of the crossed stapedial reflex response in a series of normal subjects and 30 patients with multiple sclerosis. Parameters measured included latency, contraction time, amplitude, and relaxation time. Criteria derived from the normal group and applied to the multiple sclerosis group showed clear evidence of abnormality in 10 patients. This can be attributed to lesions in the pathways of the second and third order neurones in the trapezoid body and superior olivary complex. Present evidence suggests that further refinements in the measurement technique might significantly increase the detection rate of abnormalities in multiple sclerosis.", "PMID": 458480} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13257", "title": "Prolonged azathioprine treatment of non-remitting multiple sclerosis.", "content": "Two groups of 85 and 42 ambulatory patients with moderately advanced non-remitting multiple sclerosis were treated for six to 14 and three to six years with daily azathioprine. Less than 10% of these patients became confined to a wheelchair. This far exceeds any possible result in a group of non-remitting multiple sclerosis patients not so treated.", "contents": "Prolonged azathioprine treatment of non-remitting multiple sclerosis. Two groups of 85 and 42 ambulatory patients with moderately advanced non-remitting multiple sclerosis were treated for six to 14 and three to six years with daily azathioprine. Less than 10% of these patients became confined to a wheelchair. This far exceeds any possible result in a group of non-remitting multiple sclerosis patients not so treated.", "PMID": 458481} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13258", "title": "Frequency resonance investigation of the H reflex.", "content": "Results of a previous study demostrated transformation of the sustained activity of a muscle into rhythmic, tremor-like activity by stimulation of different motor centres. The optimum for this transformation was in the 4-7 Hz frequency band (resonance band). Sustained rhythmic stimulation with stimuli at 0.1-20 per second caused a normal frequency curve of the H reflex in subjects with intact motor systems. The resonance phenomenon of the frequency curve of the H reflex was in agreement with that found in previous studies stimulating the different motor centres. As this requires connections between spinal and higher motor centres, it is suggested that this investigation is appropriate for a detailed functional study of spinal cord lesions.", "contents": "Frequency resonance investigation of the H reflex. Results of a previous study demostrated transformation of the sustained activity of a muscle into rhythmic, tremor-like activity by stimulation of different motor centres. The optimum for this transformation was in the 4-7 Hz frequency band (resonance band). Sustained rhythmic stimulation with stimuli at 0.1-20 per second caused a normal frequency curve of the H reflex in subjects with intact motor systems. The resonance phenomenon of the frequency curve of the H reflex was in agreement with that found in previous studies stimulating the different motor centres. As this requires connections between spinal and higher motor centres, it is suggested that this investigation is appropriate for a detailed functional study of spinal cord lesions.", "PMID": 458482} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13259", "title": "Benign recurrent vertigo.", "content": "Patients with recurrent vertigo in the absence of cochlear signs remain a diagnostic problem. The absence of a standard system of nomenclature further hampers the understanding of these disorders. The term benign recurrent vertigo is suggested as a useful term to characterise many of these patients. The disorder shares some of the features of migraine, and seems likely to have a similar vasospastic aetiology.", "contents": "Benign recurrent vertigo. Patients with recurrent vertigo in the absence of cochlear signs remain a diagnostic problem. The absence of a standard system of nomenclature further hampers the understanding of these disorders. The term benign recurrent vertigo is suggested as a useful term to characterise many of these patients. The disorder shares some of the features of migraine, and seems likely to have a similar vasospastic aetiology.", "PMID": 458483} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13260", "title": "Characterisation of the mobility on isoelectric focusing of individual proteins in CSF and serum by immunofixation.", "content": "The mobility of 17 different proteins in CSF and serum on isoelectric focusing was investigated by subsequent immunofixation using monospecific antisera. Individual proteins yielded identical, often complex band patterns in normal CSF and serum, except transferrin which gave one to two additional bands between pH 5.8-6.4, and the low molecular wieght beta-trace protein and gamma-trace protein, which gave three bands at pH 7.4, 8.0, and 8.4, and a single band at pH 9.5, respectively, on investigation of CSF but not serum. Polyclonal IgC migrated as multiple bands between pH 4.7-8.6. Oligoclonal IgG in CSF in multiple sclerosis and neurosyphilis migrated between pH 8.6-9.5 and was easily discriminated from other proteins.", "contents": "Characterisation of the mobility on isoelectric focusing of individual proteins in CSF and serum by immunofixation. The mobility of 17 different proteins in CSF and serum on isoelectric focusing was investigated by subsequent immunofixation using monospecific antisera. Individual proteins yielded identical, often complex band patterns in normal CSF and serum, except transferrin which gave one to two additional bands between pH 5.8-6.4, and the low molecular wieght beta-trace protein and gamma-trace protein, which gave three bands at pH 7.4, 8.0, and 8.4, and a single band at pH 9.5, respectively, on investigation of CSF but not serum. Polyclonal IgC migrated as multiple bands between pH 4.7-8.6. Oligoclonal IgG in CSF in multiple sclerosis and neurosyphilis migrated between pH 8.6-9.5 and was easily discriminated from other proteins.", "PMID": 458484} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13261", "title": "Five cases of intracranial tuberculoma followed by serial computerised tomography.", "content": "Five cases of intracranial tuberculoma in Asian adults are described, all of whom presented with epilepsy. The computerised tomographic (CAT) scanner displayed the lesions particularly well, and their characteristics are described. Only two cases were explored surgically, but triple antituberculous chemotherapy has the scan abnormalities in all of them to resolve completely. It is concluded that Asian patients with lesions likely to be tuberculous should be given a trail of antituberculous drugs, and only explored if they should deteriorate clinically, or if the lesion should fail to respond on serial scans.", "contents": "Five cases of intracranial tuberculoma followed by serial computerised tomography. Five cases of intracranial tuberculoma in Asian adults are described, all of whom presented with epilepsy. The computerised tomographic (CAT) scanner displayed the lesions particularly well, and their characteristics are described. Only two cases were explored surgically, but triple antituberculous chemotherapy has the scan abnormalities in all of them to resolve completely. It is concluded that Asian patients with lesions likely to be tuberculous should be given a trail of antituberculous drugs, and only explored if they should deteriorate clinically, or if the lesion should fail to respond on serial scans.", "PMID": 458485} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13262", "title": "Tiapride in levodopa-induced involuntary movements.", "content": "Tiapride, a substituted benzamide derivative closely related to metoclopramide, reduced levodopa-induced peak dose involuntary movements in 16 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. However, an unacceptable increase in disability from Parkinsonism with aggravation of end-of-dose akinesia led to its cessation in 14 patients. Tiapride had no effect on levodopa-induced early morning of \"off-period\" segmental dystonia. These results fail to support the notion that levodopa-induced dyskinesias are caused by overstimulation of a separate group of dopamine receptors.", "contents": "Tiapride in levodopa-induced involuntary movements. Tiapride, a substituted benzamide derivative closely related to metoclopramide, reduced levodopa-induced peak dose involuntary movements in 16 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. However, an unacceptable increase in disability from Parkinsonism with aggravation of end-of-dose akinesia led to its cessation in 14 patients. Tiapride had no effect on levodopa-induced early morning of \"off-period\" segmental dystonia. These results fail to support the notion that levodopa-induced dyskinesias are caused by overstimulation of a separate group of dopamine receptors.", "PMID": 458486} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13263", "title": "Parkinsonism after traumatic childbirth.", "content": "Three cases of an extrapyramidal syndrome after traumatic childbirth are described.", "contents": "Parkinsonism after traumatic childbirth. Three cases of an extrapyramidal syndrome after traumatic childbirth are described.", "PMID": 458487} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13264", "title": "Reduction of renal calcium reabsorption in man by consumption of dietary protein.", "content": "This experiment was designed to test whether protein consumption reduces the amount of filtered calcium reabsorbed by the kidney. Nine subjects were each fed meals containing 18 g protein and 54 g protein. The intake of energy, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc was similar in the two meals. For 4 hours after the meal, measurements were made of serum calcium (total and filterable), serum creatinine, and urinary calcium, creatinine, zinc and nitrogen. Calcium reabsorption was calculated in five clearance periods, as (filterable calcium X GFR) minus urinary calcium. Urinary calcium, zinc and nitrogen were significantly higher between 2 and 4 hours after consumption of the high protein meal. Protein level did not affect urine pH or volume, serum total or filterable calcium & or GFR. The percentage reabsorption of filtered calcium was significantly lower 0.5 hours after the high protein meal, so that at 2.5 hours, reabsorption was 98.0% compared to 98.7% after the lower protein meal. We conclude that protein consumption reduces the amount of calcium reabsorbed by the kidney.", "contents": "Reduction of renal calcium reabsorption in man by consumption of dietary protein. This experiment was designed to test whether protein consumption reduces the amount of filtered calcium reabsorbed by the kidney. Nine subjects were each fed meals containing 18 g protein and 54 g protein. The intake of energy, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc was similar in the two meals. For 4 hours after the meal, measurements were made of serum calcium (total and filterable), serum creatinine, and urinary calcium, creatinine, zinc and nitrogen. Calcium reabsorption was calculated in five clearance periods, as (filterable calcium X GFR) minus urinary calcium. Urinary calcium, zinc and nitrogen were significantly higher between 2 and 4 hours after consumption of the high protein meal. Protein level did not affect urine pH or volume, serum total or filterable calcium & or GFR. The percentage reabsorption of filtered calcium was significantly lower 0.5 hours after the high protein meal, so that at 2.5 hours, reabsorption was 98.0% compared to 98.7% after the lower protein meal. We conclude that protein consumption reduces the amount of calcium reabsorbed by the kidney.", "PMID": 458488} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13265", "title": "Assessment of the essentiality of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine and isoleucine in immature dogs.", "content": "A completely purified L-amino acid diet was used to evaluate the indispensability of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine and isoleucine in the immature dog. Immature dogs fed diets devoid of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine or isoleucine had severely depressed food intakes, accompanying weight loss, and a distinctly negative nitrogen balance. Partial or total removal of these amino acids resulted in a marked increase in blood and urinary urea. Estimates are made for the dietary requirements for these amino acids in the immature dog.", "contents": "Assessment of the essentiality of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine and isoleucine in immature dogs. A completely purified L-amino acid diet was used to evaluate the indispensability of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine and isoleucine in the immature dog. Immature dogs fed diets devoid of methionine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine or isoleucine had severely depressed food intakes, accompanying weight loss, and a distinctly negative nitrogen balance. Partial or total removal of these amino acids resulted in a marked increase in blood and urinary urea. Estimates are made for the dietary requirements for these amino acids in the immature dog.", "PMID": 458489} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13266", "title": "Toxicity of rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol in weanling mice.", "content": "Reinvestigation of the previously reported toxicity of saturated fat on weanling mice has shown rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol to be a more potent toxic agent than free palmitic acid when fed as the sole source of dietary fat. As shown before, protection against this toxicity can be afforded by the addition of 2 to 4% safflower oil. We have now shown that if the rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol is acetylated the toxicity is much less. The protective effect of diacetyl rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol cannot be totally ascribed either to the presence of acetate itself or to the blocking of the free hydroxyls of palmitoyl glycerol by acylation. In vivo absorption studies coupled with in vitro experiments with pancreatic lipase suggest that the major protective effects result from increased lipolysis of the acylated palmitoyl glycerol, causing conversion to the less toxic free palmitic acid.", "contents": "Toxicity of rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol in weanling mice. Reinvestigation of the previously reported toxicity of saturated fat on weanling mice has shown rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol to be a more potent toxic agent than free palmitic acid when fed as the sole source of dietary fat. As shown before, protection against this toxicity can be afforded by the addition of 2 to 4% safflower oil. We have now shown that if the rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol is acetylated the toxicity is much less. The protective effect of diacetyl rac-1(3)-palmitoyl glycerol cannot be totally ascribed either to the presence of acetate itself or to the blocking of the free hydroxyls of palmitoyl glycerol by acylation. In vivo absorption studies coupled with in vitro experiments with pancreatic lipase suggest that the major protective effects result from increased lipolysis of the acylated palmitoyl glycerol, causing conversion to the less toxic free palmitic acid.", "PMID": 458490} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13267", "title": "Lysine and arginine requirements of the domestic cat.", "content": "Domestic kittens were used in four experiments to establish quantitative requirements for lysine and arginine. A purified L-amino acid diet (by calculation, 4,700 kcal metabolizable energy/kg diet) was employed throughout. Weight gain, gain:feed and nitrogen retention data of cats fed dietary lysine levels ranging from 0.48 to 1.92% suggested a requirement not exceeding 0.80%. The dietary arginine requirement for maximal gain was assayed at this level of lysine and found to be not greater than 0.83%. A dietary arginine level of 0.33% resulted in vomiting and extreme lethargy within 4 hours of ingestion.", "contents": "Lysine and arginine requirements of the domestic cat. Domestic kittens were used in four experiments to establish quantitative requirements for lysine and arginine. A purified L-amino acid diet (by calculation, 4,700 kcal metabolizable energy/kg diet) was employed throughout. Weight gain, gain:feed and nitrogen retention data of cats fed dietary lysine levels ranging from 0.48 to 1.92% suggested a requirement not exceeding 0.80%. The dietary arginine requirement for maximal gain was assayed at this level of lysine and found to be not greater than 0.83%. A dietary arginine level of 0.33% resulted in vomiting and extreme lethargy within 4 hours of ingestion.", "PMID": 458491} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13268", "title": "Insulin dependent and independent actions of dietary protein on in vitro protein synthesis in skeletal muscle of rats.", "content": "Insulin dependency of the effect of dietary protein on in vitro protein synthesis in skeletal muscle was studied in rats. Re-feeding fasted rats with an adequate protein diet caused an increase in protein synthetic activity of skeletal muscle within only 5 hours with a concomitant increase in concentration of polyribosomes. During re-feeding of a protein-free diet muscle protein synthesis increased significantly but it was somewhat lower than in rats fed an adequate protein diet. The concentration of insulin in plasma increased promptly and markedly when the rats were re-fed either of these diets. However, the degree of increase was slightly less in rats fed a protein-containing meal. Re-feeding normal rats with egg albumin alone, after fasting 1 day, produced a marked increase in protein synthetic activity of skeletal muscle with a parallel increase in proportion of polyribosomes in the tissue. The stimulatory action of dietary protein on muscle protein synthesis was not abolished even in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. However, there was no appreciable change in ribosomal profile in the diabetic rats. These results indicate that the function of dietary protein in regulating muscle protein synthesis is not mediated entirely by insulin.", "contents": "Insulin dependent and independent actions of dietary protein on in vitro protein synthesis in skeletal muscle of rats. Insulin dependency of the effect of dietary protein on in vitro protein synthesis in skeletal muscle was studied in rats. Re-feeding fasted rats with an adequate protein diet caused an increase in protein synthetic activity of skeletal muscle within only 5 hours with a concomitant increase in concentration of polyribosomes. During re-feeding of a protein-free diet muscle protein synthesis increased significantly but it was somewhat lower than in rats fed an adequate protein diet. The concentration of insulin in plasma increased promptly and markedly when the rats were re-fed either of these diets. However, the degree of increase was slightly less in rats fed a protein-containing meal. Re-feeding normal rats with egg albumin alone, after fasting 1 day, produced a marked increase in protein synthetic activity of skeletal muscle with a parallel increase in proportion of polyribosomes in the tissue. The stimulatory action of dietary protein on muscle protein synthesis was not abolished even in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. However, there was no appreciable change in ribosomal profile in the diabetic rats. These results indicate that the function of dietary protein in regulating muscle protein synthesis is not mediated entirely by insulin.", "PMID": 458493} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13269", "title": "Effect of level of protein intake on calcium metabolism and on parathyroid and renal function in the adult human male.", "content": "Mechanisms involved in the hypercalciuria caused by high levels of protein intake were investigated. Six healthy males participated in a 20-day metabolic study. During the first 10-day period, all subjects were given a 47 g protein diet and during the second 10-day period, a 142 g protein diet. Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus intakes were kept constant at 515, 320 and 1,110 mg daily, respectively. Urinary calcium was elevated significantly when the protein intake was increased. Glomerular filtration rate and calcium clearance were increased significantly when the high protein diet was fed; the fractional tubular reabsorption of calcium was decreased from 98.4 to 97.4%. Thus, the increase in urinary calcium caused by the high protein diet appears to be due in part to an increase in the filtered load of calcium by the glomeruli and in part to a decrease in calcium reabsorption by the renal tubules. The level of protein intake had no effect on the fasting serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone, total calcium, magnesium or inorganic phosphorus or plasma ultrafiltrable calcium.", "contents": "Effect of level of protein intake on calcium metabolism and on parathyroid and renal function in the adult human male. Mechanisms involved in the hypercalciuria caused by high levels of protein intake were investigated. Six healthy males participated in a 20-day metabolic study. During the first 10-day period, all subjects were given a 47 g protein diet and during the second 10-day period, a 142 g protein diet. Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus intakes were kept constant at 515, 320 and 1,110 mg daily, respectively. Urinary calcium was elevated significantly when the protein intake was increased. Glomerular filtration rate and calcium clearance were increased significantly when the high protein diet was fed; the fractional tubular reabsorption of calcium was decreased from 98.4 to 97.4%. Thus, the increase in urinary calcium caused by the high protein diet appears to be due in part to an increase in the filtered load of calcium by the glomeruli and in part to a decrease in calcium reabsorption by the renal tubules. The level of protein intake had no effect on the fasting serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone, total calcium, magnesium or inorganic phosphorus or plasma ultrafiltrable calcium.", "PMID": 458494} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13270", "title": "Effect of adrenalectomy on liver lipid content of fasted rats.", "content": "The interrelationship between thyroid and adrenal hormones in the regulation of lipid accumulation of the liver during fasting was examined with the use of intact, sham operated and adrenalectomized (ADX) rats previously fed a high carbohydrate diet. Adrenalectomy depressed the lipid accumulation of the liver induced by fasting. This was restored by cortisone administration, but not by epinephrine injection. Lipid content of the liver during fasting tended to be decreased in rats made hyperthyroid by intraperitoneal injection of thyroxine compared to euthyroid-fasted rats. In rats made hypothyroid by oral administration of propylthiouracil, liver lipid content during fasting was significantly higher than that of euthyroid-fasted rats. These responses of liver lipid to thyroid activity were minimized in ADX rats. Cortisone tended to restore completely the liver response to thyroid activity. The maximal response of liver lipid to cortisone was obtained in hypothyroid-ADX rats. The injection of epinephrine alone did not cause any significant change in liver lipid content of ADX rats regardless of the thyroid status. These findings suggest that glucocorticoid must be present for thyroid function to exert its effect on the lipid accumulation of the liver induced by fasting.", "contents": "Effect of adrenalectomy on liver lipid content of fasted rats. The interrelationship between thyroid and adrenal hormones in the regulation of lipid accumulation of the liver during fasting was examined with the use of intact, sham operated and adrenalectomized (ADX) rats previously fed a high carbohydrate diet. Adrenalectomy depressed the lipid accumulation of the liver induced by fasting. This was restored by cortisone administration, but not by epinephrine injection. Lipid content of the liver during fasting tended to be decreased in rats made hyperthyroid by intraperitoneal injection of thyroxine compared to euthyroid-fasted rats. In rats made hypothyroid by oral administration of propylthiouracil, liver lipid content during fasting was significantly higher than that of euthyroid-fasted rats. These responses of liver lipid to thyroid activity were minimized in ADX rats. Cortisone tended to restore completely the liver response to thyroid activity. The maximal response of liver lipid to cortisone was obtained in hypothyroid-ADX rats. The injection of epinephrine alone did not cause any significant change in liver lipid content of ADX rats regardless of the thyroid status. These findings suggest that glucocorticoid must be present for thyroid function to exert its effect on the lipid accumulation of the liver induced by fasting.", "PMID": 458496} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13271", "title": "Growth, appetite, sequence of pathological signs and survival following the induction of rapid, synchronous vitamin A deficiency in the rat.", "content": "Experiments were conducted to determine the sequence and reliability of appearance of key signs of vitamin A deficiency. Rapid and essentially synchronous vitamin A deficiency was induced by the withdrawal of retinoic acid from mature (190--210 g) stringently vitamin A-deficient male rats reared by feeding early growth plateau (60--70 g) vitamin A-deprived rats diets first supplemented with and then lacking in 2 micrograms retinoic acid per gram diet in repeating 18 day:10 day supplementation:deprivation cycles. Growth was depressed within 1 to 2 days of the withdrawal of retinoic aicid whether animals were force-fed or were fed ad libitum. Similar patterns were obtained when animals were fed 5 or 10 micrograms retinoic acid per gram diet. Appetite was depressed (1--2 days) whether animals were fed 18% casein diets, or were given 10% dextrose drinking solutions only. Decreased food intake was not due to impaired taste function or to poor palatability of the deficient diet. Bilateral electrolytic lesions in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus or anterior prepyriform cortex failed to prevent or to delay loss of appetite. Supplementation with antibiotics decreased body weight losses in the late stages of deficiency and increased survival time. Other signs of deficiency (days until onset following retinoate withdrawal; percent incidence) were: decreased intestinal goblet cell numbers (2--3; 80), decreased pilocarpine induced salivation (6--8; 80), tracheal metaplasia (6--8; 80), transient periocular porphyria (6--8; 60), altered salivary gland morphology (9--10; 80), decreased stomach emptying in force-fed animals (12; 70), twisting (12; 5) and leg crippling (12; 5). We conclude that the sequence of appearance of individual signs of deficiency following the induction of synchronous vitamin A deficiency is highly reproducible, and that the more general use of synchronously deficient animals would materially assist studies of cause-effect relationships in vitamin A deficiency.", "contents": "Growth, appetite, sequence of pathological signs and survival following the induction of rapid, synchronous vitamin A deficiency in the rat. Experiments were conducted to determine the sequence and reliability of appearance of key signs of vitamin A deficiency. Rapid and essentially synchronous vitamin A deficiency was induced by the withdrawal of retinoic acid from mature (190--210 g) stringently vitamin A-deficient male rats reared by feeding early growth plateau (60--70 g) vitamin A-deprived rats diets first supplemented with and then lacking in 2 micrograms retinoic acid per gram diet in repeating 18 day:10 day supplementation:deprivation cycles. Growth was depressed within 1 to 2 days of the withdrawal of retinoic aicid whether animals were force-fed or were fed ad libitum. Similar patterns were obtained when animals were fed 5 or 10 micrograms retinoic acid per gram diet. Appetite was depressed (1--2 days) whether animals were fed 18% casein diets, or were given 10% dextrose drinking solutions only. Decreased food intake was not due to impaired taste function or to poor palatability of the deficient diet. Bilateral electrolytic lesions in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus or anterior prepyriform cortex failed to prevent or to delay loss of appetite. Supplementation with antibiotics decreased body weight losses in the late stages of deficiency and increased survival time. Other signs of deficiency (days until onset following retinoate withdrawal; percent incidence) were: decreased intestinal goblet cell numbers (2--3; 80), decreased pilocarpine induced salivation (6--8; 80), tracheal metaplasia (6--8; 80), transient periocular porphyria (6--8; 60), altered salivary gland morphology (9--10; 80), decreased stomach emptying in force-fed animals (12; 70), twisting (12; 5) and leg crippling (12; 5). We conclude that the sequence of appearance of individual signs of deficiency following the induction of synchronous vitamin A deficiency is highly reproducible, and that the more general use of synchronously deficient animals would materially assist studies of cause-effect relationships in vitamin A deficiency.", "PMID": 458497} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13272", "title": "Serum levels of selenium, calcium, copper magnesium, manganese and zinc in various human diseases.", "content": "Serum selenium as well as serum zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium and manganese were investigated in a control group of adult males and in 11 groups of patients in various disease states. Not only the change of each trace element but also the possible association between elements was studied in the various groups. All patients were fasting when sampled and studied only after the acute phase of the disease was corrected. Trace metal determinations were performed by atomic absorption spectrophometry (Mg, Ca, Cu, Zn) and by neutron activation analysis (Se, Mn). All patients showed low serum zinc when compared to controls. Cirrhotic patients had a low serum selenium level as well as low calcium, magnesium and zinc. Emphysemia and cancer patients had an elevated serum copper concentration while copper and manganese levels were elevated in congestive heart failure, infection and pschoses. To our knowledge this is the first time low serum selenium values have been demonstrated to be associated with the low serum zinc, calcium and magnesium levels found in cirrhotic patients.", "contents": "Serum levels of selenium, calcium, copper magnesium, manganese and zinc in various human diseases. Serum selenium as well as serum zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium and manganese were investigated in a control group of adult males and in 11 groups of patients in various disease states. Not only the change of each trace element but also the possible association between elements was studied in the various groups. All patients were fasting when sampled and studied only after the acute phase of the disease was corrected. Trace metal determinations were performed by atomic absorption spectrophometry (Mg, Ca, Cu, Zn) and by neutron activation analysis (Se, Mn). All patients showed low serum zinc when compared to controls. Cirrhotic patients had a low serum selenium level as well as low calcium, magnesium and zinc. Emphysemia and cancer patients had an elevated serum copper concentration while copper and manganese levels were elevated in congestive heart failure, infection and pschoses. To our knowledge this is the first time low serum selenium values have been demonstrated to be associated with the low serum zinc, calcium and magnesium levels found in cirrhotic patients.", "PMID": 458498} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13273", "title": "Effect of intraruminal urea administration on glucose metabolism in dairy steers.", "content": "Isotope dilution techniques were used to study steady-state glucose kinetics in four rumen-fistulated Holstein steers and to study the effect of rapid absorption of ammonia from the rumen on glucose metabolism. Steers were fed a high-concentrate diet at hourly intervals from automatic feeders. Plasma glucose specific activity curves following single intravenous injection of [2-3H]glucose were used to construct a two-compartment model of the glucose pool with inflow and outflow from compartment one. Primed continuous infusion of [2-3H]glucose was used to determine the steady-state turnover rate of glucose and to monitor changes in the rates of inflow and outflow of glucose from the glucose pool following a single dosage of urea (0.4 g/kg body weight) into the rumen. Compartment sizes of the glucose pool were 65.6 and 33.5 g for compartments 1 and 2, respectively. Glucose turnover rate during steady-state was 15.4 mg/minute/kg body weight 0.75 and transfer rate of glucose between compartments was 17.9 mg/minute/kg body weight 0.75. Concentrations of rumen ammonia-nitrogen, plasma ammonia-nitrogen and plasma urea-nitrogen were 6.1, 0.5 and 4.0 mg/100 ml, respectively, before urea dosage. Rumen ammonia-nitrogen, plasma ammonia-nitrogen increased after urea dosage and reached peak concentrations, 170.0 and 1.2 mg/100 ml, respectively, approximately 120 minutes after urea dosage. Plasma urea-nitrogen increased linearly throughout the 4-hour sampling period and reached 12.0 mg/100 ml at end of the experiment. Concentration of glucose in plasma increased from 98.2 mg/100 ml before urea dosage to 114.6 mg/100 ml at 100 minutes after urea dosage. Estimates of glucose production and utilization indicated that the increased concentration of glucose in plasma in all steers was due, at least partially, to a decrease in the rate of glucose utilization. A rapid rate of glycogenolysis which resulted in a marked increase in the plasma glucose concentration also was evident in one steer.", "contents": "Effect of intraruminal urea administration on glucose metabolism in dairy steers. Isotope dilution techniques were used to study steady-state glucose kinetics in four rumen-fistulated Holstein steers and to study the effect of rapid absorption of ammonia from the rumen on glucose metabolism. Steers were fed a high-concentrate diet at hourly intervals from automatic feeders. Plasma glucose specific activity curves following single intravenous injection of [2-3H]glucose were used to construct a two-compartment model of the glucose pool with inflow and outflow from compartment one. Primed continuous infusion of [2-3H]glucose was used to determine the steady-state turnover rate of glucose and to monitor changes in the rates of inflow and outflow of glucose from the glucose pool following a single dosage of urea (0.4 g/kg body weight) into the rumen. Compartment sizes of the glucose pool were 65.6 and 33.5 g for compartments 1 and 2, respectively. Glucose turnover rate during steady-state was 15.4 mg/minute/kg body weight 0.75 and transfer rate of glucose between compartments was 17.9 mg/minute/kg body weight 0.75. Concentrations of rumen ammonia-nitrogen, plasma ammonia-nitrogen and plasma urea-nitrogen were 6.1, 0.5 and 4.0 mg/100 ml, respectively, before urea dosage. Rumen ammonia-nitrogen, plasma ammonia-nitrogen increased after urea dosage and reached peak concentrations, 170.0 and 1.2 mg/100 ml, respectively, approximately 120 minutes after urea dosage. Plasma urea-nitrogen increased linearly throughout the 4-hour sampling period and reached 12.0 mg/100 ml at end of the experiment. Concentration of glucose in plasma increased from 98.2 mg/100 ml before urea dosage to 114.6 mg/100 ml at 100 minutes after urea dosage. Estimates of glucose production and utilization indicated that the increased concentration of glucose in plasma in all steers was due, at least partially, to a decrease in the rate of glucose utilization. A rapid rate of glycogenolysis which resulted in a marked increase in the plasma glucose concentration also was evident in one steer.", "PMID": 458499} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13274", "title": "The effect of sulphur on 75Se absorption and retention in sheep.", "content": "Four Border-Leicester X Merino wethers were used in a 4 X 4 Latin square experiment to study the effects of dietary sulphur on selenium absorption and retention. The basal diet contained 0.05% S and sodium sulphate was added to give additional treatment levels of 0.11, 0.17 and 0.24% total sulphur. Sodium selenate was added to all diets to bring the dietary selenium level to a constant 0.25 mg/kg. One hundred muCi 75Se as sodium selenate (specific activity 50 muCi/mg Se) was administered to the rumen per fistulam after a 10-day period of adjustment on each diet. Radioactivity in blood, urine, faeces and rumen digesta was measured at intervals over the succeeding 7 days. Twenty percent of the total activity in the rumen fluid was in the TCA supernatant fraction after 3 hours, and this proportion tended to increase slightly as sulphur intake increased. Fecal excretion of selenium accounted for between 44 and 51% of the dose after 7 days, the high levels being associated with increasing sulphur intake. However, these differences were not significant. Urinary excretion of selenium accounted for between 12% (0.05% S) and 22% (0.24% S) of the dose after 7 days, with treatment differences being significant. Levels of radioactivity in blood were significantly higher in sheep fed the 0.05% S diet compared with those fed the higher levels. The results show that sulphur affects apparent selenium excretion and suggest that the metabolism of these two elements is intimately related.", "contents": "The effect of sulphur on 75Se absorption and retention in sheep. Four Border-Leicester X Merino wethers were used in a 4 X 4 Latin square experiment to study the effects of dietary sulphur on selenium absorption and retention. The basal diet contained 0.05% S and sodium sulphate was added to give additional treatment levels of 0.11, 0.17 and 0.24% total sulphur. Sodium selenate was added to all diets to bring the dietary selenium level to a constant 0.25 mg/kg. One hundred muCi 75Se as sodium selenate (specific activity 50 muCi/mg Se) was administered to the rumen per fistulam after a 10-day period of adjustment on each diet. Radioactivity in blood, urine, faeces and rumen digesta was measured at intervals over the succeeding 7 days. Twenty percent of the total activity in the rumen fluid was in the TCA supernatant fraction after 3 hours, and this proportion tended to increase slightly as sulphur intake increased. Fecal excretion of selenium accounted for between 44 and 51% of the dose after 7 days, the high levels being associated with increasing sulphur intake. However, these differences were not significant. Urinary excretion of selenium accounted for between 12% (0.05% S) and 22% (0.24% S) of the dose after 7 days, with treatment differences being significant. Levels of radioactivity in blood were significantly higher in sheep fed the 0.05% S diet compared with those fed the higher levels. The results show that sulphur affects apparent selenium excretion and suggest that the metabolism of these two elements is intimately related.", "PMID": 458500} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13275", "title": "Conversion of alanine, aspartate and lactate to glucose and CO2 in liver from stress-susceptible and stress-resistant pigs.", "content": "Rates of conversion of lactate, alanine and aspartate to glucose and oxidation of each to CO2 were determined in incubated liver slices from nine stress-susceptible (SS) and seven stress-resistant (SR) Yorkshire pigs ranging in body weight from 24 to 54 kg. Pigs were screened for stress susceptibility by exposure to halothane at 7 weeks of age. Stress was minimized before slaughter, and liver samples were obtained immediately after death. Rates of lactate and aspartate conversion to glucose were not significantly different between pig types. Mean rates of lactate conversion to glucose in livers of SS and SR pigs were 637 and 413 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours), respectively. Mean rates of aspartate conversion to glucose were 441 and 540 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours) in SS and SR pigs, respectively. Alanine conversion to glucose in livers of SS pigs was slower than that in SR pigs [527 and 813 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours), respectively]. Rates of hepatic gluconeogenesis from lactate probably do not predispose SS pigs to the lactic acidosis observed during the porcine stress syndrome. Rates of lactate, alanine and aspartate oxidation to CO2 in livers of SS pigs were 61, 59 and 76%, respectively, of the rates observed in SR pigs. Decreased rates of substrate oxidation to CO2 may contribute to the development of the syndrome in SS pigs.", "contents": "Conversion of alanine, aspartate and lactate to glucose and CO2 in liver from stress-susceptible and stress-resistant pigs. Rates of conversion of lactate, alanine and aspartate to glucose and oxidation of each to CO2 were determined in incubated liver slices from nine stress-susceptible (SS) and seven stress-resistant (SR) Yorkshire pigs ranging in body weight from 24 to 54 kg. Pigs were screened for stress susceptibility by exposure to halothane at 7 weeks of age. Stress was minimized before slaughter, and liver samples were obtained immediately after death. Rates of lactate and aspartate conversion to glucose were not significantly different between pig types. Mean rates of lactate conversion to glucose in livers of SS and SR pigs were 637 and 413 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours), respectively. Mean rates of aspartate conversion to glucose were 441 and 540 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours) in SS and SR pigs, respectively. Alanine conversion to glucose in livers of SS pigs was slower than that in SR pigs [527 and 813 nmoles/(100 mg X 2 hours), respectively]. Rates of hepatic gluconeogenesis from lactate probably do not predispose SS pigs to the lactic acidosis observed during the porcine stress syndrome. Rates of lactate, alanine and aspartate oxidation to CO2 in livers of SS pigs were 61, 59 and 76%, respectively, of the rates observed in SR pigs. Decreased rates of substrate oxidation to CO2 may contribute to the development of the syndrome in SS pigs.", "PMID": 458501} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13276", "title": "myo-Inositol deficiency: studies on the mechanism of lactation-dependent fatty liver formation in the rat.", "content": "Intravenous administration of [1-14C]palmitate to 8-day lactating rats fed a myo-inositol supplemented or deficient diet resulted in rapid labeling of liver triglycerides and phospholipids. Compared with myo-inositol deficient rats, those supplemented with myo-inositol showed a greater loss of isotope from liver triglycerides with a more rapid appearance of isotope in serum triglyceride. Loss of 14C from liver phospholipids was similar for both groups, whereas the appearance of labeled phospholipids in serum was slightly greater for myo-inositol supplemented controls compared with myo-inositol deficient rats. The labeling pattern of liver microsomal triglycerides and phospholipids of the two dietary groups was similar; however, liver microsomal protein was significantly reduced in myo-inositol deficient rats relative to the control group. Concurrent administration of Triton WR-1339 with [1-14C]palmitate resulted in significantly less label accumulation in serum triglycerides of myo-inositol deficient rats compared with myo-inositol supplemented rats. Labeled triglycerides in whole liver and in liver microsomes of myo-inositol supplemented rats turned over more rapidly than those of myo-inositol deficient rats while no significant difference was noted for the [14C]palmitate labeled phospholipid of either source. The incorporation of [guanido-14C]arginine into total liver and serum protein 1 hour after injection of the precursor was similar whether the 14-day lactating dams were myo-inositol supplemented or deficient, but total serum protein specific radioactivity of myo-inositol deficient rats was 66% that of myo-inositol supplemented rats. Thus, the significantly reduced release of hepatic triglycerides appears to be the cause of the fatty liver observed during lactation-dependent myo-inositol deficiency.", "contents": "myo-Inositol deficiency: studies on the mechanism of lactation-dependent fatty liver formation in the rat. Intravenous administration of [1-14C]palmitate to 8-day lactating rats fed a myo-inositol supplemented or deficient diet resulted in rapid labeling of liver triglycerides and phospholipids. Compared with myo-inositol deficient rats, those supplemented with myo-inositol showed a greater loss of isotope from liver triglycerides with a more rapid appearance of isotope in serum triglyceride. Loss of 14C from liver phospholipids was similar for both groups, whereas the appearance of labeled phospholipids in serum was slightly greater for myo-inositol supplemented controls compared with myo-inositol deficient rats. The labeling pattern of liver microsomal triglycerides and phospholipids of the two dietary groups was similar; however, liver microsomal protein was significantly reduced in myo-inositol deficient rats relative to the control group. Concurrent administration of Triton WR-1339 with [1-14C]palmitate resulted in significantly less label accumulation in serum triglycerides of myo-inositol deficient rats compared with myo-inositol supplemented rats. Labeled triglycerides in whole liver and in liver microsomes of myo-inositol supplemented rats turned over more rapidly than those of myo-inositol deficient rats while no significant difference was noted for the [14C]palmitate labeled phospholipid of either source. The incorporation of [guanido-14C]arginine into total liver and serum protein 1 hour after injection of the precursor was similar whether the 14-day lactating dams were myo-inositol supplemented or deficient, but total serum protein specific radioactivity of myo-inositol deficient rats was 66% that of myo-inositol supplemented rats. Thus, the significantly reduced release of hepatic triglycerides appears to be the cause of the fatty liver observed during lactation-dependent myo-inositol deficiency.", "PMID": 458502} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13277", "title": "Duration thresholds for chromatic stimuli.", "content": "The duration necessary to detect chromatic stimuli was measured for wavelengths between 463 and 620 nm. Stimuli were presented either in hue substitution (replacement of white by a chromatic stimulus of matched luminance) or as increments. Two observers viewed a 1 degrees 45' homogeneous white field. A trial consisted of replacement of the central 40' of the field by a chromatic stimulus. In substitution mode the white field was 2.4 cd/m2., the chromatic replacement was of matched luminance using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP). In increment mode, the white field was decreased to 1.2 cd/m2., the chromatic replacement remained at 2.4 cd/m2. In substitution mode, duration threshold varied from approximately 3--4 ms for the spectral extremes to 45--66 ms at 570 nm. Detected stimuli were always seen as a change in chromaticity. In increment mode, thresholds were in the 2--4 ms range with no dependence upon spectral composition. Detected stimuli were seen either as changes in chromaticity or brightness. A control experiment indicated that HFP did establish equivalent luminance for the hue substitution mode. We conclude that duration thresholds in substitution mode reveal chromatic processing channels; duration thresholds in increment mode are mediated by chromatic and/or achromatic processing channels.", "contents": "Duration thresholds for chromatic stimuli. The duration necessary to detect chromatic stimuli was measured for wavelengths between 463 and 620 nm. Stimuli were presented either in hue substitution (replacement of white by a chromatic stimulus of matched luminance) or as increments. Two observers viewed a 1 degrees 45' homogeneous white field. A trial consisted of replacement of the central 40' of the field by a chromatic stimulus. In substitution mode the white field was 2.4 cd/m2., the chromatic replacement was of matched luminance using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP). In increment mode, the white field was decreased to 1.2 cd/m2., the chromatic replacement remained at 2.4 cd/m2. In substitution mode, duration threshold varied from approximately 3--4 ms for the spectral extremes to 45--66 ms at 570 nm. Detected stimuli were always seen as a change in chromaticity. In increment mode, thresholds were in the 2--4 ms range with no dependence upon spectral composition. Detected stimuli were seen either as changes in chromaticity or brightness. A control experiment indicated that HFP did establish equivalent luminance for the hue substitution mode. We conclude that duration thresholds in substitution mode reveal chromatic processing channels; duration thresholds in increment mode are mediated by chromatic and/or achromatic processing channels.", "PMID": 458503} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13278", "title": "Chromatic border distinctness: not an index of hue or saturation differences.", "content": "Some investigators have suggested that the distinctness of chromatic borders (i.e., borders visible in photic arrays of uniform luminance) can be used as an index of hue and saturation differences between lights. However, recent evidence indicates that only two types of cones in the trichromatic eye contribute to chromatic border perception. A series of experiments are reported that were designed to discriminate between these alternatives, utilizing mainly the short-wavelength visible spectrum. The results support the notion that only R and G cones in the trichromatic eye mediate the perception of chromatic borders; thus the distinctness of such borders alone cannot be used as an index of either hue or saturation differences, because both of these aspects of color involve contributions from B cones.", "contents": "Chromatic border distinctness: not an index of hue or saturation differences. Some investigators have suggested that the distinctness of chromatic borders (i.e., borders visible in photic arrays of uniform luminance) can be used as an index of hue and saturation differences between lights. However, recent evidence indicates that only two types of cones in the trichromatic eye contribute to chromatic border perception. A series of experiments are reported that were designed to discriminate between these alternatives, utilizing mainly the short-wavelength visible spectrum. The results support the notion that only R and G cones in the trichromatic eye mediate the perception of chromatic borders; thus the distinctness of such borders alone cannot be used as an index of either hue or saturation differences, because both of these aspects of color involve contributions from B cones.", "PMID": 458504} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13279", "title": "Correction of empty-field myopia on the basis of the dark-focus of accommodation.", "content": "The influence of negative spherical corrections on the detection of a small increment flash presented in a uniform field or Ganzfeld were determined. The range investigated included each observer's normal correction as well as values based on the focus assumed by each observer in total darkness (dark-focus of accomodation). A correction equivalent to the dark-focus resulted in maximum sensitivity. The results suggest a convenient technique for the determination of optimal correction for empty-field viewing conditions.", "contents": "Correction of empty-field myopia on the basis of the dark-focus of accommodation. The influence of negative spherical corrections on the detection of a small increment flash presented in a uniform field or Ganzfeld were determined. The range investigated included each observer's normal correction as well as values based on the focus assumed by each observer in total darkness (dark-focus of accomodation). A correction equivalent to the dark-focus resulted in maximum sensitivity. The results suggest a convenient technique for the determination of optimal correction for empty-field viewing conditions.", "PMID": 458505} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13280", "title": "Temporal facilitation and stroboscopic motion.", "content": "Luminance of extended-duration adapting field was varied from zero to a level sufficient to reduce brightness of a 5 ms test stimulus to a level just above increment threshold. Increasing the luminance of surrounds or solid adapting fields resulted in increased reaction time. With the perceived-order method, reduction of latency with increasing surround luminance (temporal facilitation) was obtained with a visual comparison stimulus but not with an auditory comparison. It was concluded that perceived motion is a necessary condition for temporal facilitation. This study and earlier studies using moving test stimuli may be explained by a shift from sustained to transient units with increasing adapting luminance.", "contents": "Temporal facilitation and stroboscopic motion. Luminance of extended-duration adapting field was varied from zero to a level sufficient to reduce brightness of a 5 ms test stimulus to a level just above increment threshold. Increasing the luminance of surrounds or solid adapting fields resulted in increased reaction time. With the perceived-order method, reduction of latency with increasing surround luminance (temporal facilitation) was obtained with a visual comparison stimulus but not with an auditory comparison. It was concluded that perceived motion is a necessary condition for temporal facilitation. This study and earlier studies using moving test stimuli may be explained by a shift from sustained to transient units with increasing adapting luminance.", "PMID": 458506} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13281", "title": "Effect of meridional disparity on depth perception.", "content": "When a meridional-size lens is used to provide magnification in the horizonal meridan for one eye the resulting stereopsis distortion is readily accounted for in the terms of the binocular disparity caused by changed angular relations. When the same size lens is used to magnify the vertical meridian for one eye there is an opposite stereoscopic distortion for which is no ready geometric explanation. A perceptually induced mechanism operating in the vertical meridian has been suggested by Ogle. In the present experiment, apparatus was designed to introduce disparity of binocularly fused targets successively in each of several oblique meridians independent of the stereopsis measuring targets. Unlike the above-mentioned results obtained with size lenses, the induced stereoscopic distortion was in the same direction and of essentially the same magnitude for disparity in every meridian. It would follow that the perceptually induced mechanism is not exclusive to the vertical meridian.", "contents": "Effect of meridional disparity on depth perception. When a meridional-size lens is used to provide magnification in the horizonal meridan for one eye the resulting stereopsis distortion is readily accounted for in the terms of the binocular disparity caused by changed angular relations. When the same size lens is used to magnify the vertical meridian for one eye there is an opposite stereoscopic distortion for which is no ready geometric explanation. A perceptually induced mechanism operating in the vertical meridian has been suggested by Ogle. In the present experiment, apparatus was designed to introduce disparity of binocularly fused targets successively in each of several oblique meridians independent of the stereopsis measuring targets. Unlike the above-mentioned results obtained with size lenses, the induced stereoscopic distortion was in the same direction and of essentially the same magnitude for disparity in every meridian. It would follow that the perceptually induced mechanism is not exclusive to the vertical meridian.", "PMID": 458507} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13282", "title": "Binocular color fusion limit.", "content": "When two lights of different wavelengths are dichoptically presented to the eyes to form a single visual field, the fusion of colors cannot be assured unless the difference is relatively small. The limit of the wavelength difference delta lambda beyond which no homogeneous color is obtained was determined for the wavelengths covering a range of about 500 to 660 nm. It varied from about 10 to 50 nm depending upon the wavelength region investigated, which is much larger than the delta lambda values normally obtained in wavelength discrimination experiments. The limit was also obtained for a pair made up of a white light and a colored light that varied in purity. The value was again quite large. These results suggested that the tolerance for color difference is fairly lenient as far as binocular color fusion is concerned.", "contents": "Binocular color fusion limit. When two lights of different wavelengths are dichoptically presented to the eyes to form a single visual field, the fusion of colors cannot be assured unless the difference is relatively small. The limit of the wavelength difference delta lambda beyond which no homogeneous color is obtained was determined for the wavelengths covering a range of about 500 to 660 nm. It varied from about 10 to 50 nm depending upon the wavelength region investigated, which is much larger than the delta lambda values normally obtained in wavelength discrimination experiments. The limit was also obtained for a pair made up of a white light and a colored light that varied in purity. The value was again quite large. These results suggested that the tolerance for color difference is fairly lenient as far as binocular color fusion is concerned.", "PMID": 458508} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13283", "title": "Opponent chromatic mechanisms: relation to photopigments and hue naming.", "content": "Opponent chromatic response functions were determined from monochromatic, equal-luminance stimuli from 400 to 700 nm for three observers using a hue cancellation procedure. The same observers scaled the hue of the stimuli using the terms red, green, yellow, and blue. The results showed that the hue scaling was accurately predicted from the cancellation functions using the model of Hurvich and Jameson. Theoretical curves were generated to fit the chromatic response functions with a linear combination of three cone photopigments. The theoretical photopigments were based on an idopsin nomogram with lambdamax at a = 435, beta = 530, and lambda = 562 nm. An estimate of the density of each observer's preretinal optic media was obtained in order to relate the photopigment absorption spectra to the psychophysical data. Good linear fits were obtained for each observer's red-green curve, but not for the yellow-blue curves. A nonlinear model with an expansive exponent was used to fit the yellow-blue response functions with the three theoretical photopigments.", "contents": "Opponent chromatic mechanisms: relation to photopigments and hue naming. Opponent chromatic response functions were determined from monochromatic, equal-luminance stimuli from 400 to 700 nm for three observers using a hue cancellation procedure. The same observers scaled the hue of the stimuli using the terms red, green, yellow, and blue. The results showed that the hue scaling was accurately predicted from the cancellation functions using the model of Hurvich and Jameson. Theoretical curves were generated to fit the chromatic response functions with a linear combination of three cone photopigments. The theoretical photopigments were based on an idopsin nomogram with lambdamax at a = 435, beta = 530, and lambda = 562 nm. An estimate of the density of each observer's preretinal optic media was obtained in order to relate the photopigment absorption spectra to the psychophysical data. Good linear fits were obtained for each observer's red-green curve, but not for the yellow-blue curves. A nonlinear model with an expansive exponent was used to fit the yellow-blue response functions with the three theoretical photopigments.", "PMID": 458509} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13284", "title": "Luminace, not brightness, determines temporal brightness enhancement with chromatic stimuli.", "content": "Brightness-duration relations for chromatic stimuli were studied using three pulse-to-background luminace relations: chromatic equal-luminance pulses (3.2 cd/m2) were presented as increments of 0.3 or 1.0 log units above a lower luminance achromatic background, or were presented in hue substitution, equated in luminance to the achromatic background, so that no spatio-temporal luminance transients occurred during stimulus presentation. Incremental pulses produced temporal brightness enhancement (the Broca-Sulzer phenomenon), but hue substitution pulses did not. Temporal brightness enhancement thus depends upon the occurrence of luminance transients and cannot be produced by pulsed-to-background brightness differences associated solely with chromaticity differences.", "contents": "Luminace, not brightness, determines temporal brightness enhancement with chromatic stimuli. Brightness-duration relations for chromatic stimuli were studied using three pulse-to-background luminace relations: chromatic equal-luminance pulses (3.2 cd/m2) were presented as increments of 0.3 or 1.0 log units above a lower luminance achromatic background, or were presented in hue substitution, equated in luminance to the achromatic background, so that no spatio-temporal luminance transients occurred during stimulus presentation. Incremental pulses produced temporal brightness enhancement (the Broca-Sulzer phenomenon), but hue substitution pulses did not. Temporal brightness enhancement thus depends upon the occurrence of luminance transients and cannot be produced by pulsed-to-background brightness differences associated solely with chromaticity differences.", "PMID": 458511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13285", "title": "A study of the Stiles-Crawford (S-C) function at 35 degrees in the temporal field and the stability of the foveal S-C function peak over time.", "content": "Directional sensitivity of the retina (the Stiles-Crawford function of the first kind) was measured at a point 35 degrees from fixation and at the point of fixation. Three normal observers were used. The peripheral test point intercepted the retina between the optic nerve head and the ora serrata. At both test points, photopic and scotopic (one subject) Stiles-Crawford function peaks were contained within the pupillary bound and approximated the center of the pupil. Directionality at the two points was rather similar. These findings add strength to the argument that retinal receptors align approximately with the center of the exit pupil of the eye. Evidence for stability in Stiles-Crawford peak location in time is also presented.", "contents": "A study of the Stiles-Crawford (S-C) function at 35 degrees in the temporal field and the stability of the foveal S-C function peak over time. Directional sensitivity of the retina (the Stiles-Crawford function of the first kind) was measured at a point 35 degrees from fixation and at the point of fixation. Three normal observers were used. The peripheral test point intercepted the retina between the optic nerve head and the ora serrata. At both test points, photopic and scotopic (one subject) Stiles-Crawford function peaks were contained within the pupillary bound and approximated the center of the pupil. Directionality at the two points was rather similar. These findings add strength to the argument that retinal receptors align approximately with the center of the exit pupil of the eye. Evidence for stability in Stiles-Crawford peak location in time is also presented.", "PMID": 458510} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13286", "title": "Detection threshold for lights of varying purity.", "content": "Duration thresholds for hue substitution stimuli of various wavelenghts and colorimetric purity were determined. Results indicated an inverse relationship between duration thresholds and colorimetric purity. It was also found that short-wavelength sensitive (SWS) cones can contribute to the detection of low purity, short duration (less than 5 ms) stimuli.", "contents": "Detection threshold for lights of varying purity. Duration thresholds for hue substitution stimuli of various wavelenghts and colorimetric purity were determined. Results indicated an inverse relationship between duration thresholds and colorimetric purity. It was also found that short-wavelength sensitive (SWS) cones can contribute to the detection of low purity, short duration (less than 5 ms) stimuli.", "PMID": 458512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13287", "title": "Retinoblastoma: some aspects concerning diagnosis, heredity, and treatment.", "content": "The authors set forth their views on the early diagnosis, heredity, and therapeutic problems of retinoblastoma. They regard as imperative the frequent ophthalmological check-up of familial tumors and of tumors of sporadic occurence, notably when they are bilateral. The further problems posed by the surviving patients are discussed in detail in the light of follow-up examinations extended up to 15 years.", "contents": "Retinoblastoma: some aspects concerning diagnosis, heredity, and treatment. The authors set forth their views on the early diagnosis, heredity, and therapeutic problems of retinoblastoma. They regard as imperative the frequent ophthalmological check-up of familial tumors and of tumors of sporadic occurence, notably when they are bilateral. The further problems posed by the surviving patients are discussed in detail in the light of follow-up examinations extended up to 15 years.", "PMID": 458513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13288", "title": "Dysthyroid ophthalmopathy in children.", "content": "The observation in this study of 33 pediatric patients with thyroid disfunction supports the view that ocular changes are uncommon in this age group. If ophthalmopathy does occur, it is mild. No patient was found to have clinical myopathy, corneal involvement, or visual loss. B Scan Ultrasonography demonstrated extraocular muscle involvement despite the absence of clinical signs and symptoms of myopathy. There was no HLA antigen prevalence in those patients with ophthalmopathy as compared with those free of ocular change. It is suggested that the conservative medical management of the pediatric group with thyroid disease may account for the low incidence of severe ocular changes.", "contents": "Dysthyroid ophthalmopathy in children. The observation in this study of 33 pediatric patients with thyroid disfunction supports the view that ocular changes are uncommon in this age group. If ophthalmopathy does occur, it is mild. No patient was found to have clinical myopathy, corneal involvement, or visual loss. B Scan Ultrasonography demonstrated extraocular muscle involvement despite the absence of clinical signs and symptoms of myopathy. There was no HLA antigen prevalence in those patients with ophthalmopathy as compared with those free of ocular change. It is suggested that the conservative medical management of the pediatric group with thyroid disease may account for the low incidence of severe ocular changes.", "PMID": 458514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13289", "title": "Bilateral Duane's syndrome associated with crocodile tears.", "content": "The rare association of two syndromes of paradoxical innervation, bilateral Duane's retraction syndrome and congenital crocodile tears is presented. This association assumes a central localization to explain both anomalies.", "contents": "Bilateral Duane's syndrome associated with crocodile tears. The rare association of two syndromes of paradoxical innervation, bilateral Duane's retraction syndrome and congenital crocodile tears is presented. This association assumes a central localization to explain both anomalies.", "PMID": 458516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13290", "title": "Restrictions in the diagnoses and management of strabismus problems.", "content": "Restrictions have been found to be a common cause of incomitant strabismus and limitation of ocular rotations. Different types of restrictions have been described and the technique of forced duction testing reviewed. Causes of restriction include endocrine eye disease, orbital floor and medical wall fracture, Brown's syndrome, tight lateral rectus syndrome, congenital tight muscles, scarring, muscle contracture, and orbital celluitis or tumors. The importance of recognizing restrictions in the management of these problems has been emphasized.", "contents": "Restrictions in the diagnoses and management of strabismus problems. Restrictions have been found to be a common cause of incomitant strabismus and limitation of ocular rotations. Different types of restrictions have been described and the technique of forced duction testing reviewed. Causes of restriction include endocrine eye disease, orbital floor and medical wall fracture, Brown's syndrome, tight lateral rectus syndrome, congenital tight muscles, scarring, muscle contracture, and orbital celluitis or tumors. The importance of recognizing restrictions in the management of these problems has been emphasized.", "PMID": 458515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13291", "title": "Colobomatous microphthalmia, heart disease, hearing loss, and mental retardation--a syndrome.", "content": "A syndrome consisting of colobomatous microphthalmia, heart disease, abnormalities of the external ear with associated hearing loss, and mental retardation is described. Nine children and one adult were evaluated. There is not race or sex predilection. The syndrome can be heritable, as shown by a mother and daughter who were among the patients. In addition to the four major components enumerated, multiple other anomalies may be associated. In some cases, the syndrome may occur incompletely. Whenever two or more of the four components are recognized, the other systems usually affected should be investigated.", "contents": "Colobomatous microphthalmia, heart disease, hearing loss, and mental retardation--a syndrome. A syndrome consisting of colobomatous microphthalmia, heart disease, abnormalities of the external ear with associated hearing loss, and mental retardation is described. Nine children and one adult were evaluated. There is not race or sex predilection. The syndrome can be heritable, as shown by a mother and daughter who were among the patients. In addition to the four major components enumerated, multiple other anomalies may be associated. In some cases, the syndrome may occur incompletely. Whenever two or more of the four components are recognized, the other systems usually affected should be investigated.", "PMID": 458518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13292", "title": "Distichiasis of the lids and lymphedema of the lower extremities: a report of ten cases.", "content": "Ten members belonging to two different families were affected by distichiasis of the lids (double row of eyelashes) and lymphedema of the lower extremities. Other less frequent congenital anomalies, such as pterygium colli and ptosis were found in some affected members. The previously reported cases were reviewed. A single pleiotropic gene with a high penetrance and a variable expressivity is responsbile for the different anomalies of this dominantly inherited syndrome.", "contents": "Distichiasis of the lids and lymphedema of the lower extremities: a report of ten cases. Ten members belonging to two different families were affected by distichiasis of the lids (double row of eyelashes) and lymphedema of the lower extremities. Other less frequent congenital anomalies, such as pterygium colli and ptosis were found in some affected members. The previously reported cases were reviewed. A single pleiotropic gene with a high penetrance and a variable expressivity is responsbile for the different anomalies of this dominantly inherited syndrome.", "PMID": 458519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13293", "title": "The early management of baby with Hallermann-Steriff-Francois Syndrome.", "content": "The importance of early management of sight in a baby with Hallermann-Streiff-Francois syndrome is described. Surgery for bilateral cataract was performed. Special postcataract contact lenses were fitted.", "contents": "The early management of baby with Hallermann-Steriff-Francois Syndrome. The importance of early management of sight in a baby with Hallermann-Streiff-Francois syndrome is described. Surgery for bilateral cataract was performed. Special postcataract contact lenses were fitted.", "PMID": 458517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13294", "title": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis and ptosis in a contact lens wearer.", "content": "A case of ptosis due to giant papillary conjunctivitis in a 24-year-old female is described. The contact lens was removed and the ptosis disappeared. A possible etiology is discussed.", "contents": "Giant papillary conjunctivitis and ptosis in a contact lens wearer. A case of ptosis due to giant papillary conjunctivitis in a 24-year-old female is described. The contact lens was removed and the ptosis disappeared. A possible etiology is discussed.", "PMID": 458521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13295", "title": "Gyrate atrophy of choroid associated with hyperornithinaemia: report of the first case in Italy.", "content": "The first case in Italy and the youngest case in the world of gyrate atrophy of the choroid associated with hyperornithinaemia is reported. A therapeutical attempt has been made and the possibility of following the evolution of the ocular lesion is very interesting.", "contents": "Gyrate atrophy of choroid associated with hyperornithinaemia: report of the first case in Italy. The first case in Italy and the youngest case in the world of gyrate atrophy of the choroid associated with hyperornithinaemia is reported. A therapeutical attempt has been made and the possibility of following the evolution of the ocular lesion is very interesting.", "PMID": 458520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13296", "title": "Paradoxical movements of the eyelid and eyeball.", "content": "Two cases of ptosis with paradoxical eye and lid movements have been reported. One of them was congenital, where there was narrowing of palpebral aperture on abduction and pseudo-Graefe phenomenon on looking down. The other case was acquired following head injury. Here there was narrowing of palpebral aperture on abduction and widening of palpebral aperture on adduction. Besides there was absence of elevation of the globe in looking up. The pseudo-Graefe phenomenon of lid retraction was present only on looking down and in and not on looking down and out. Probable causes of such associated movements have been mentioned.", "contents": "Paradoxical movements of the eyelid and eyeball. Two cases of ptosis with paradoxical eye and lid movements have been reported. One of them was congenital, where there was narrowing of palpebral aperture on abduction and pseudo-Graefe phenomenon on looking down. The other case was acquired following head injury. Here there was narrowing of palpebral aperture on abduction and widening of palpebral aperture on adduction. Besides there was absence of elevation of the globe in looking up. The pseudo-Graefe phenomenon of lid retraction was present only on looking down and in and not on looking down and out. Probable causes of such associated movements have been mentioned.", "PMID": 458525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13297", "title": "The surgical treatment of overcorrected esotropia.", "content": "The medical records of 33 consecutive patients who developed secondary exotropia following surgery for esotropia were reviewed. Only six patients (18%) had normal medial rectus function. Lateral rectus recession proved to be an excellent procudure for correcting the deviation in these patients, provided the surgery was limited to the eye with the narrower palpebral fissure. Twenty-seven patients (82%) exhibited limitation of adduction secondary to medial rectus underaction. Of these patients, 75% were successfully corrected following a 12 mm advancement and resection of the underacting medial rectus muscle. The details of the surgical technique performed are discussed.", "contents": "The surgical treatment of overcorrected esotropia. The medical records of 33 consecutive patients who developed secondary exotropia following surgery for esotropia were reviewed. Only six patients (18%) had normal medial rectus function. Lateral rectus recession proved to be an excellent procudure for correcting the deviation in these patients, provided the surgery was limited to the eye with the narrower palpebral fissure. Twenty-seven patients (82%) exhibited limitation of adduction secondary to medial rectus underaction. Of these patients, 75% were successfully corrected following a 12 mm advancement and resection of the underacting medial rectus muscle. The details of the surgical technique performed are discussed.", "PMID": 458523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13298", "title": "Primary congenital eversion of the upper lids.", "content": "A case of bilateral primary congenital eversion of lids in a newborn black male is described. It is a self-limiting disease and does not leave any sequelae. A higher incidence in black infants has been noted in the literature.", "contents": "Primary congenital eversion of the upper lids. A case of bilateral primary congenital eversion of lids in a newborn black male is described. It is a self-limiting disease and does not leave any sequelae. A higher incidence in black infants has been noted in the literature.", "PMID": 458522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13299", "title": "Visual functions following bilateral surgery of congenital cataracts in children.", "content": "The visual functions, before and after surgery, of 19 children with bilateral congenital cataract are evaluated. Some of the children, in spite of the poor vision before surgery and the late age at surgery, developed good vision with binocular functions. These children probably had an incomplete lens opacity in their early childhood which became completely opaque at an age at which irreversible stimulus deprivation amblyopia is unlikely to develop. Therefore, children over the age of 6 years with poor vision due to congenital cataract, on whom no information is available concerning the density of their lens opacities in early childhood, should not be regarded as having a poor visual prognosis.", "contents": "Visual functions following bilateral surgery of congenital cataracts in children. The visual functions, before and after surgery, of 19 children with bilateral congenital cataract are evaluated. Some of the children, in spite of the poor vision before surgery and the late age at surgery, developed good vision with binocular functions. These children probably had an incomplete lens opacity in their early childhood which became completely opaque at an age at which irreversible stimulus deprivation amblyopia is unlikely to develop. Therefore, children over the age of 6 years with poor vision due to congenital cataract, on whom no information is available concerning the density of their lens opacities in early childhood, should not be regarded as having a poor visual prognosis.", "PMID": 458528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13300", "title": "Ureteral reimplantation in children with neurogenic bladder.", "content": "The treatment of urologic complications from myelomeningocele and especially of vesico-renal reflux is a controversial problem. A series of 26 reimplanted ureters in 17 children, with good results in more than 85%, is reported. Ureteroneocystostomy, carried out with a few technical innovation, may represent a useful method for the treatment of vesico-renal reflux and obstruction of the uretero-vesical junction in neurogenic bladder associated with myelomeningocele. This surgical approach leads to the disappearance of the reflux, decrease of dilatation of the upper urinary tract and preservation of renal function in most cases; moreover, infection can be more easily controlled. Ureteral reimplantation should be preceded by periodic urethral dilatation, external transurethral sphincterotomy, and pharmacologic regulation in order to attempt to decrease urethral resistance. After successful surgery, it is possible to try to reeducate the bladder. Reimplantation should be preferred to permanent urinary diversion even if there is gross reflux.", "contents": "Ureteral reimplantation in children with neurogenic bladder. The treatment of urologic complications from myelomeningocele and especially of vesico-renal reflux is a controversial problem. A series of 26 reimplanted ureters in 17 children, with good results in more than 85%, is reported. Ureteroneocystostomy, carried out with a few technical innovation, may represent a useful method for the treatment of vesico-renal reflux and obstruction of the uretero-vesical junction in neurogenic bladder associated with myelomeningocele. This surgical approach leads to the disappearance of the reflux, decrease of dilatation of the upper urinary tract and preservation of renal function in most cases; moreover, infection can be more easily controlled. Ureteral reimplantation should be preceded by periodic urethral dilatation, external transurethral sphincterotomy, and pharmacologic regulation in order to attempt to decrease urethral resistance. After successful surgery, it is possible to try to reeducate the bladder. Reimplantation should be preferred to permanent urinary diversion even if there is gross reflux.", "PMID": 458534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13301", "title": "Traumatic simulated Brown's syndrome: a case report.", "content": "A case report of a simulated Brown's tendon sheath syndrome is presented which masks as an orbital floor fracture with entrapment. Despite a positive forced traction test, additional diagnostic information such as a normal tomographic exam of the orbital floor, vertical saccadic up gaze velocity measurements consistent with edema and hemorrhage, greater limitation to elevation in adduction than abduction, and tenderness and soft tissue injury in the region of the trochlea, persuaded us to conservatively manage this case. It behooves the ophthalmologist to consider a temporary superior restrictive phenomenon produced by edema prior to any surgical approach to improve elevation of the globe.", "contents": "Traumatic simulated Brown's syndrome: a case report. A case report of a simulated Brown's tendon sheath syndrome is presented which masks as an orbital floor fracture with entrapment. Despite a positive forced traction test, additional diagnostic information such as a normal tomographic exam of the orbital floor, vertical saccadic up gaze velocity measurements consistent with edema and hemorrhage, greater limitation to elevation in adduction than abduction, and tenderness and soft tissue injury in the region of the trochlea, persuaded us to conservatively manage this case. It behooves the ophthalmologist to consider a temporary superior restrictive phenomenon produced by edema prior to any surgical approach to improve elevation of the globe.", "PMID": 458524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13302", "title": "Sertoli cell tumor (gonadal stromal tumor) in an infant.", "content": "An 8-mo-old boy had an orchiectomy for a Sertoli cell tumor. Malignancy was suspected histologically. He underwent a retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy and no nodes contained metastases. The histologic criteria for malignancy in Sertoli cell tumors are controversial. Individual case reports of patients with these tumors are encouraged to help establish their natural history and optimum management.", "contents": "Sertoli cell tumor (gonadal stromal tumor) in an infant. An 8-mo-old boy had an orchiectomy for a Sertoli cell tumor. Malignancy was suspected histologically. He underwent a retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy and no nodes contained metastases. The histologic criteria for malignancy in Sertoli cell tumors are controversial. Individual case reports of patients with these tumors are encouraged to help establish their natural history and optimum management.", "PMID": 458535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13303", "title": "Massive sequestration crisis in sickle cell disease following ocular evisceration.", "content": "A case of an 11-year-old Negro female with SC disease who sustained right eye injury with development of a massive and fatal sequestration crisis following ocular evisceration was presented. The inherent danger of SC disease in relation to surgical procedures and general anesthesia was stressed and recommendations as to preoperative management of SC disease was briefly discussed.", "contents": "Massive sequestration crisis in sickle cell disease following ocular evisceration. A case of an 11-year-old Negro female with SC disease who sustained right eye injury with development of a massive and fatal sequestration crisis following ocular evisceration was presented. The inherent danger of SC disease in relation to surgical procedures and general anesthesia was stressed and recommendations as to preoperative management of SC disease was briefly discussed.", "PMID": 458530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13304", "title": "The importance of hepatic lymph drainage in experimental biliary atresia. Effect of omentopexy on prevention of cholangitis.", "content": "It is believed that partial destruction of the hepatic lymph drainage during the operation of hepato-portoenterostomy is probably the cause of postoperative attacks of cholangitis. Experimental evidence is described that appears to show that omentopexy to the porta hepatis will aid hepatic lymph drainage and may thus prevent postoperative cholangitis.", "contents": "The importance of hepatic lymph drainage in experimental biliary atresia. Effect of omentopexy on prevention of cholangitis. It is believed that partial destruction of the hepatic lymph drainage during the operation of hepato-portoenterostomy is probably the cause of postoperative attacks of cholangitis. Experimental evidence is described that appears to show that omentopexy to the porta hepatis will aid hepatic lymph drainage and may thus prevent postoperative cholangitis.", "PMID": 458536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13305", "title": "Treatment failure in anterior uveitis in children.", "content": "Anterior uveitis in children can present difficult management problems. While the course of the inflammation may defy the usual treatment modalities, attention to five specific areas of clinical management may enable the ophthalmologist to better preserve visual function. Careful examination, proper adjustment of corticosteroid dosage, repeated intraocular pressure measurement, patient compliance, and adequate follow-up are the areas discussed.", "contents": "Treatment failure in anterior uveitis in children. Anterior uveitis in children can present difficult management problems. While the course of the inflammation may defy the usual treatment modalities, attention to five specific areas of clinical management may enable the ophthalmologist to better preserve visual function. Careful examination, proper adjustment of corticosteroid dosage, repeated intraocular pressure measurement, patient compliance, and adequate follow-up are the areas discussed.", "PMID": 458531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13306", "title": "Waardenburg's syndrome: case reports in two Nigerians.", "content": "We saw two cases of Waardenburg's syndrome in Nigerian children. A 9-year-old girl had congenital deaf-mutism, high-arched palate, complete heterochromia iridis with pigment mottling in the posterior pole of the eye with the hypochromic iris, dyspigmented frontal scalp hair, a history of vitiligo, but with no dystopia canthorum. An 11-year-old boy had a harelip with cleft palate, heterochromia iridis, blonde fundus on the eye with blue iris, and dystopia canthorum.", "contents": "Waardenburg's syndrome: case reports in two Nigerians. We saw two cases of Waardenburg's syndrome in Nigerian children. A 9-year-old girl had congenital deaf-mutism, high-arched palate, complete heterochromia iridis with pigment mottling in the posterior pole of the eye with the hypochromic iris, dyspigmented frontal scalp hair, a history of vitiligo, but with no dystopia canthorum. An 11-year-old boy had a harelip with cleft palate, heterochromia iridis, blonde fundus on the eye with blue iris, and dystopia canthorum.", "PMID": 458527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13307", "title": "A family with X-chromosomal recessive congenital cataract, microphthalmia, a peculiar form of the ear and dental anomalies.", "content": "An investigation has been made in a family with X-chromosomal recessive congenital cataract, microphthalmia, a peculiar form of the ear, and dental anomalies. The carrier females show only slight symptoms. They all have lens opacities, and most of them show more symptoms. For genetic counseling it is of utmost importance to examine all family members and to re-examine the females from time to time for early lens opacificaiton, which is the most constant finding. In literature families have been described with similar clinical symptoms only a few times. We have been trying to demonstrate a linkage with the Xga locus, which might enable us to locate the mutant gene on the X-chromosome and to exclude with more certainty the carrier status. The results of this blood group specification were not informative. In future we hope to be able to demonstrate a linkage with other markers located on the X-chromosome.", "contents": "A family with X-chromosomal recessive congenital cataract, microphthalmia, a peculiar form of the ear and dental anomalies. An investigation has been made in a family with X-chromosomal recessive congenital cataract, microphthalmia, a peculiar form of the ear, and dental anomalies. The carrier females show only slight symptoms. They all have lens opacities, and most of them show more symptoms. For genetic counseling it is of utmost importance to examine all family members and to re-examine the females from time to time for early lens opacificaiton, which is the most constant finding. In literature families have been described with similar clinical symptoms only a few times. We have been trying to demonstrate a linkage with the Xga locus, which might enable us to locate the mutant gene on the X-chromosome and to exclude with more certainty the carrier status. The results of this blood group specification were not informative. In future we hope to be able to demonstrate a linkage with other markers located on the X-chromosome.", "PMID": 458526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13308", "title": "The unusual presentation of pancreatitis in infancy.", "content": "Two infants with acute pancreatitis are described. It appears that acute pancreatitis in infancy presents in one of two ways: part of a severe generalized illness, or as ascites. The outlook for the former depends on the prognosis of the generalized illness. If pancreatitis can be recognized as the cause of the ascites, then adequate treatment will result in survival. Although the cause in some infants is said to be idiopathic, exploration should be performed, the lesser sac investigated and if the child is in reasonable condition, appropriate study of the biliary tree and pancreatic ductile system should be considered. If a pseudocyst is present, adequate drainage is mandatory. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment will be possible only if this rare disorder is suspected. The eventual prognosis is excellent and the chance of recurrent attacks is minimal.", "contents": "The unusual presentation of pancreatitis in infancy. Two infants with acute pancreatitis are described. It appears that acute pancreatitis in infancy presents in one of two ways: part of a severe generalized illness, or as ascites. The outlook for the former depends on the prognosis of the generalized illness. If pancreatitis can be recognized as the cause of the ascites, then adequate treatment will result in survival. Although the cause in some infants is said to be idiopathic, exploration should be performed, the lesser sac investigated and if the child is in reasonable condition, appropriate study of the biliary tree and pancreatic ductile system should be considered. If a pseudocyst is present, adequate drainage is mandatory. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment will be possible only if this rare disorder is suspected. The eventual prognosis is excellent and the chance of recurrent attacks is minimal.", "PMID": 458537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13309", "title": "Accidental ingestion of a Veirs rod.", "content": "We present a case of a young child whose canalicular laceration was repaired with a Veirs rod. The repair was likely successful. However, some time between four and six weeks postoperative, the rod slid down the nasolacrimal duct and was ingested. Its presence in the digestive tract was verified by radiographic studies. No untoward problems ensued.", "contents": "Accidental ingestion of a Veirs rod. We present a case of a young child whose canalicular laceration was repaired with a Veirs rod. The repair was likely successful. However, some time between four and six weeks postoperative, the rod slid down the nasolacrimal duct and was ingested. Its presence in the digestive tract was verified by radiographic studies. No untoward problems ensued.", "PMID": 458532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13310", "title": "Persistent hyponatremia and inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion in children with extensive burns.", "content": "Three children aged 2 1/2 to 5 1/2 yr, with burns covering 30%--45% of body surface area, developed hyponatremia and serum hypotonicity on the 5th--6th day following the burn injury. The hyponatremia persisted for 10--15 days. During this period, all three passed inappropriately concentrated urines. One child also demonstrated marked and inappropriate thirst. All three children demonstrated persistent respiratory alkalosis, which appeared and disappeared concomitantly with the hyponatremia. There were no signs of dehydration, and plasma volumes, measured in two children, were normal to high. These children are believed to show evidence of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion. In the absence of those conditions known to produce this syndrome, it is postulated that in these children it may have resulted from prolonged pain, anxiety, and/or pyrexia.", "contents": "Persistent hyponatremia and inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion in children with extensive burns. Three children aged 2 1/2 to 5 1/2 yr, with burns covering 30%--45% of body surface area, developed hyponatremia and serum hypotonicity on the 5th--6th day following the burn injury. The hyponatremia persisted for 10--15 days. During this period, all three passed inappropriately concentrated urines. One child also demonstrated marked and inappropriate thirst. All three children demonstrated persistent respiratory alkalosis, which appeared and disappeared concomitantly with the hyponatremia. There were no signs of dehydration, and plasma volumes, measured in two children, were normal to high. These children are believed to show evidence of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion. In the absence of those conditions known to produce this syndrome, it is postulated that in these children it may have resulted from prolonged pain, anxiety, and/or pyrexia.", "PMID": 458538} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13311", "title": "Treatment and sequelae of angiographic complications in children.", "content": "Fourteen cases of thromboembolic complications appeared in 267 consecutive angiographies during a 7-yr period. The arterial circulation has been evaluated both clinically and with oscillometry. The complication rate was substantially higher after cut down then after percutaneous approach (56% vs. 2.7%). Seven patients with signs of total vascular obstruction were subjected to acute thromboectomy whereas three patients with milder clinical symptoms were treated nonoperatively with anticoagulants. Four patients have died during the examination period, the remaining ten patients have been subjected to long term follow-up (mean follow-up period 3 yr). Seven demonstrated normal findings clinically, as well as oscillographically, whereas three patients subjected ot thromboectomy after cut down were clinically normal but decreased oscillographic pulsations could be demonstrated.", "contents": "Treatment and sequelae of angiographic complications in children. Fourteen cases of thromboembolic complications appeared in 267 consecutive angiographies during a 7-yr period. The arterial circulation has been evaluated both clinically and with oscillometry. The complication rate was substantially higher after cut down then after percutaneous approach (56% vs. 2.7%). Seven patients with signs of total vascular obstruction were subjected to acute thromboectomy whereas three patients with milder clinical symptoms were treated nonoperatively with anticoagulants. Four patients have died during the examination period, the remaining ten patients have been subjected to long term follow-up (mean follow-up period 3 yr). Seven demonstrated normal findings clinically, as well as oscillographically, whereas three patients subjected ot thromboectomy after cut down were clinically normal but decreased oscillographic pulsations could be demonstrated.", "PMID": 458539} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13312", "title": "Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins: a study of possible environmental factors in the production of colonic aganglionosis.", "content": "The occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease, with histologically verified colonic aganglionosis, in only 1 of 2 prematurely born and presumed identical (monozygotic) twins is reported. The occurrence of monozygotic twinning was supported by the observed sharing of a single and common placenta and by ABO and HLA identity of peripheral blood erythrocytes and leukocytes. The affected twin was of a slightly lower birth weight and experienced early respiratory distress, necrotizing enterocolotis, and more prolonged umbilical artery catheterization (no encountered in the unaffected twin). This, to the authors' knowledge, is the first reported occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins. The literature relating to genetic and environmental factors in clinical and experimental colonic aganglionosis is reviewed and speculation is presented regarding the occurrence of colonic aganglionosis discordant in monozygotic twins as reported here.", "contents": "Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins: a study of possible environmental factors in the production of colonic aganglionosis. The occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease, with histologically verified colonic aganglionosis, in only 1 of 2 prematurely born and presumed identical (monozygotic) twins is reported. The occurrence of monozygotic twinning was supported by the observed sharing of a single and common placenta and by ABO and HLA identity of peripheral blood erythrocytes and leukocytes. The affected twin was of a slightly lower birth weight and experienced early respiratory distress, necrotizing enterocolotis, and more prolonged umbilical artery catheterization (no encountered in the unaffected twin). This, to the authors' knowledge, is the first reported occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins. The literature relating to genetic and environmental factors in clinical and experimental colonic aganglionosis is reviewed and speculation is presented regarding the occurrence of colonic aganglionosis discordant in monozygotic twins as reported here.", "PMID": 458540} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13313", "title": "Bilateral cataract in acrodermatitis enteropathica.", "content": "Bilateral cataract was found in a case of acrodermatitis enteropathica. A possible role of zinc deficiency in causing cataract might be assumed.", "contents": "Bilateral cataract in acrodermatitis enteropathica. Bilateral cataract was found in a case of acrodermatitis enteropathica. A possible role of zinc deficiency in causing cataract might be assumed.", "PMID": 458529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13314", "title": "The ileocecal segment: an anti-reflux conduit for hepatic portoenterostomy.", "content": "This paper describes an approach to prevent reflux and ascending cholangitis after hepatic portoenterostomy for biliary atresia. The method utilizes the terminal ileum and right colon as the conduit and a Nisson-type plication to the area of the ileocecal valve. It was used in one patient.", "contents": "The ileocecal segment: an anti-reflux conduit for hepatic portoenterostomy. This paper describes an approach to prevent reflux and ascending cholangitis after hepatic portoenterostomy for biliary atresia. The method utilizes the terminal ileum and right colon as the conduit and a Nisson-type plication to the area of the ileocecal valve. It was used in one patient.", "PMID": 458541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13315", "title": "Bacterial peritonitis in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt.", "content": "Bacterial peritonitis is an unusual complication of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for hydrocephalus. This complication, usually associated with peritoneal cysts of perforated viscus, may occur as the first manifestation of shunt infection. Early recognition of this form of bacterial peritonitis and appropriate antibiotic therapy may avert major abdominal surgery in selected cases.", "contents": "Bacterial peritonitis in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Bacterial peritonitis is an unusual complication of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for hydrocephalus. This complication, usually associated with peritoneal cysts of perforated viscus, may occur as the first manifestation of shunt infection. Early recognition of this form of bacterial peritonitis and appropriate antibiotic therapy may avert major abdominal surgery in selected cases.", "PMID": 458542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13316", "title": "Congenital bilateral posterolateral and anterior diaphragmatic defects.", "content": "The occurrence of bilateral posterolateral and anterior diaphragmatic congenital defects has not been previously reported. We present a case with associated abnormalities including pulmonary hypoplasia and interventricular septal defect.", "contents": "Congenital bilateral posterolateral and anterior diaphragmatic defects. The occurrence of bilateral posterolateral and anterior diaphragmatic congenital defects has not been previously reported. We present a case with associated abnormalities including pulmonary hypoplasia and interventricular septal defect.", "PMID": 458543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13317", "title": "An ectopic gastric duplication arising from the pancreas and presenting with a pneumoperitoneum.", "content": "This case report describes a large gastric duplication, which had no attachment to the stomach, and it was found in the pancreas. The second unusual feature of this duplication was that it had eroded into the splenic flexure of the colon, resulting in a large pneumoperitoneum.", "contents": "An ectopic gastric duplication arising from the pancreas and presenting with a pneumoperitoneum. This case report describes a large gastric duplication, which had no attachment to the stomach, and it was found in the pancreas. The second unusual feature of this duplication was that it had eroded into the splenic flexure of the colon, resulting in a large pneumoperitoneum.", "PMID": 458544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13318", "title": "Traumatic incarceration of the jejunum between two lumbar vertebrae.", "content": "An unusual case of traumatic herniation of the upper jejunum into the lumbar spine is presented. A suggested mechanism of injury is discussed.", "contents": "Traumatic incarceration of the jejunum between two lumbar vertebrae. An unusual case of traumatic herniation of the upper jejunum into the lumbar spine is presented. A suggested mechanism of injury is discussed.", "PMID": 458545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13319", "title": "Choledochal cyst with cholelithiasis: 15-yr follow-up.", "content": "A 15-yr-old boy, who had had surgery for a choledochal cyst in infancy, was worked up for recurrent right upper quandrant pair. Intravenous cholangiogram and ultrasound demonstrated a choledochal cyst with stones. Angiogram showed only a distorted branch of the gastro-duodenal artery. These findings were confirmed at surgery.", "contents": "Choledochal cyst with cholelithiasis: 15-yr follow-up. A 15-yr-old boy, who had had surgery for a choledochal cyst in infancy, was worked up for recurrent right upper quandrant pair. Intravenous cholangiogram and ultrasound demonstrated a choledochal cyst with stones. Angiogram showed only a distorted branch of the gastro-duodenal artery. These findings were confirmed at surgery.", "PMID": 458546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13320", "title": "Neonatal pseudoascites: an unusual presentation of long tubular duplication of small bowel.", "content": "This is a case report of a tubular duplication with a clinical presentation as pseudoascites. It was treated surgically by stripping its mucosal lining.", "contents": "Neonatal pseudoascites: an unusual presentation of long tubular duplication of small bowel. This is a case report of a tubular duplication with a clinical presentation as pseudoascites. It was treated surgically by stripping its mucosal lining.", "PMID": 458547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13321", "title": "Stressful life events, personality, and health: an inquiry into hardiness.", "content": "Personality was studied as a conditioner of the effects of stressful life events on illness onset. Two groups of middle and upper level executives had comparably high degrees of stressful life events in the previous 3 years, as measured by the Holmes and Rahe Schedule of Recent Life Events. One group (n = 86) suffered high stress without falling ill, whereas the other (n = 75) reported becoming sick after their encounter with stressful life events. Illness was measured by the Wyler, Masuda, and Holmes Seriousness of Illness Survey. Discriminant function analysis, run on half of the subjects in each group and cross-validated on the remaining cases, supported the prediction that high stress/low illness executives show, by comparison with high stress/high illness executives, more hardiness, that is, have a stronger commitment to self, an attitude of vigorousness toward the environment, a sense of meaningfulness, and an internal locus of control.", "contents": "Stressful life events, personality, and health: an inquiry into hardiness. Personality was studied as a conditioner of the effects of stressful life events on illness onset. Two groups of middle and upper level executives had comparably high degrees of stressful life events in the previous 3 years, as measured by the Holmes and Rahe Schedule of Recent Life Events. One group (n = 86) suffered high stress without falling ill, whereas the other (n = 75) reported becoming sick after their encounter with stressful life events. Illness was measured by the Wyler, Masuda, and Holmes Seriousness of Illness Survey. Discriminant function analysis, run on half of the subjects in each group and cross-validated on the remaining cases, supported the prediction that high stress/low illness executives show, by comparison with high stress/high illness executives, more hardiness, that is, have a stronger commitment to self, an attitude of vigorousness toward the environment, a sense of meaningfulness, and an internal locus of control.", "PMID": 458548} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13322", "title": "Effects of amount of helplessness training and internal-external locus of control on mood and performance.", "content": "Based on Wortman and Brehm's integration of reactance theory with Seligman's model of learned helplessness, an investigation was conducted to examine the effects of amount of helplessness training and internal--external locus of control on subsequent task performance and on self-ratings of mood. Subjects were divided into \"internal\" and \"external\" groups and were then given either high, low, or no helplessness training on a series of concept-formation problems. After completing a mood checklist, all subjects worked on an anagram task presented as a second experiment by a second experimenter. The results revealed that internals exhibited greater performance decrements and reported greater depression under high helplessness than did externals. In the low helplessness conditions, internals tended to perform better than control subjects, while externals tended to perform worse than control subjects; low helplessness subjects also reported the highest levels of hostility. The results are discussed within the context of Wortman and Brehm's integration of reactance and learned helplessness theories.", "contents": "Effects of amount of helplessness training and internal-external locus of control on mood and performance. Based on Wortman and Brehm's integration of reactance theory with Seligman's model of learned helplessness, an investigation was conducted to examine the effects of amount of helplessness training and internal--external locus of control on subsequent task performance and on self-ratings of mood. Subjects were divided into \"internal\" and \"external\" groups and were then given either high, low, or no helplessness training on a series of concept-formation problems. After completing a mood checklist, all subjects worked on an anagram task presented as a second experiment by a second experimenter. The results revealed that internals exhibited greater performance decrements and reported greater depression under high helplessness than did externals. In the low helplessness conditions, internals tended to perform better than control subjects, while externals tended to perform worse than control subjects; low helplessness subjects also reported the highest levels of hostility. The results are discussed within the context of Wortman and Brehm's integration of reactance and learned helplessness theories.", "PMID": 458549} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13323", "title": "Multidimensional reaction to therapeutic touch in a hospital setting.", "content": "A field experiment focused on some implication of interpersonal touch not explored in earlier research. Conceptually, the research included measuring the effects of touch over a relatively long time frame, for a broad range of response dimensions, and in a nonreactive setting characterized by dependency. On an applied level, the research studied the value of touch as a concomitant of nurse-patient interactions. Specifically, a 2 (touch vs. no touch) X 2 (male vs. female) between-subjects design assessed the effects of nurses touching patients, during preoperative teaching, on patient affective, evaluative, behavioral, and physiological responses. Results indicated that female subjects in the touch condition experienced more favorable affective, behavioral, and physiological reactions than a no-touch control group. In contrast, males in the touch condition reacted more negatively than control subjects on these dimensions.", "contents": "Multidimensional reaction to therapeutic touch in a hospital setting. A field experiment focused on some implication of interpersonal touch not explored in earlier research. Conceptually, the research included measuring the effects of touch over a relatively long time frame, for a broad range of response dimensions, and in a nonreactive setting characterized by dependency. On an applied level, the research studied the value of touch as a concomitant of nurse-patient interactions. Specifically, a 2 (touch vs. no touch) X 2 (male vs. female) between-subjects design assessed the effects of nurses touching patients, during preoperative teaching, on patient affective, evaluative, behavioral, and physiological responses. Results indicated that female subjects in the touch condition experienced more favorable affective, behavioral, and physiological reactions than a no-touch control group. In contrast, males in the touch condition reacted more negatively than control subjects on these dimensions.", "PMID": 458550} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13324", "title": "Ambient temperature and the occurrence of collective violence: a new analysis.", "content": "Prevalent folklore suggests that riots tend to occur during periods of very hot weather. Baron and Ransberger examined 102 major riots in the United States between 1967 and 1971 and concluded that the frequency of collective violence and ambient temperature are curvilinearly related. The present article points out that the Baron and Ransberger analysis did not take account of the different number of days in different temperature ranges. The artifact is eliminated, and the probability of a riot, conditional upon temperature, is estimated. When this is done, the evidence strongly suggests that the conditional probability of a riot increases monotonically with temperature. Some general implications of such data analyses are discussed.", "contents": "Ambient temperature and the occurrence of collective violence: a new analysis. Prevalent folklore suggests that riots tend to occur during periods of very hot weather. Baron and Ransberger examined 102 major riots in the United States between 1967 and 1971 and concluded that the frequency of collective violence and ambient temperature are curvilinearly related. The present article points out that the Baron and Ransberger analysis did not take account of the different number of days in different temperature ranges. The artifact is eliminated, and the probability of a riot, conditional upon temperature, is estimated. When this is done, the evidence strongly suggests that the conditional probability of a riot increases monotonically with temperature. Some general implications of such data analyses are discussed.", "PMID": 458551} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13325", "title": "A linear recirculation model for drug disposition.", "content": "A new approach to the modeling of drug disposition is described. Disposition is regarded as the result of repetitive passes of the drug around the circulation. Mathematical analysis of experimental blood concentration data yields an expression describing the kinetics of a single pass through the tissues. In physicochemical terms the single-pass behavior depends to a large extent on the interaction of the drug with individual tissues, which greatly simplifies interpretation. The method may reveal features of disposition not apparent from experimental blood concentration data.", "contents": "A linear recirculation model for drug disposition. A new approach to the modeling of drug disposition is described. Disposition is regarded as the result of repetitive passes of the drug around the circulation. Mathematical analysis of experimental blood concentration data yields an expression describing the kinetics of a single pass through the tissues. In physicochemical terms the single-pass behavior depends to a large extent on the interaction of the drug with individual tissues, which greatly simplifies interpretation. The method may reveal features of disposition not apparent from experimental blood concentration data.", "PMID": 458553} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13326", "title": "Pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of furosemide in man: a review.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of furosemide and the attempt to correlate biological fluid measurements with diuretic response have been the subject of a large number of studies since the original reports of Hajd\u00fa, Rupp, and coworkers in the mid-1960s. This article attempts to critically review these studies under seven different sections: furosemide pharmacokinetics in normal volunteers, furosemide pharmacokinetics in patients with decreased renal function, furosemide pharmacokinetics in patients with congestive heart failure, furosemide metabolism and assay methods, furosemide bioavailability, dose-response relationships, and the role of inhibitors and mediators on furosemide effects. The literature is reviewed through August 1978.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of furosemide in man: a review. The pharmacokinetics of furosemide and the attempt to correlate biological fluid measurements with diuretic response have been the subject of a large number of studies since the original reports of Hajd\u00fa, Rupp, and coworkers in the mid-1960s. This article attempts to critically review these studies under seven different sections: furosemide pharmacokinetics in normal volunteers, furosemide pharmacokinetics in patients with decreased renal function, furosemide pharmacokinetics in patients with congestive heart failure, furosemide metabolism and assay methods, furosemide bioavailability, dose-response relationships, and the role of inhibitors and mediators on furosemide effects. The literature is reviewed through August 1978.", "PMID": 458552} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13327", "title": "Estimation of tissue-to-plasma partition coefficients used in physiological pharmacokinetic models.", "content": "An important parameter in the development of pharmacokinetic models is the ratio of tissue drug concentration to the concentration of the drug in the arterial plasma or the effluent plasma. The relationship between these two tissue/plasma ratios is derived analytically for different routes of drug administration. The two are equal only in compartments with no elimination when the drug is infused at constant rate. For other routes of administration, the two ratios are identical in all compartments only when there is no elimination process. The tissue/plasma concentration ratios for infusion equilibrium are not equal to the corresponding values for the postdistribution phase after an intravenous bolus injection. When the plasma concentration for infusion and injection are the same, more drug will appear in the lung during infusion steady state than during the postdistribution equilibrium. The reverse is true for the other organs. The importance of properly defining the tissue/plasma ratio and its implication for pharmacokinetic modeling are discussed. The results may have important therapeutic implications for the availability of drugs using different routes of administration.", "contents": "Estimation of tissue-to-plasma partition coefficients used in physiological pharmacokinetic models. An important parameter in the development of pharmacokinetic models is the ratio of tissue drug concentration to the concentration of the drug in the arterial plasma or the effluent plasma. The relationship between these two tissue/plasma ratios is derived analytically for different routes of drug administration. The two are equal only in compartments with no elimination when the drug is infused at constant rate. For other routes of administration, the two ratios are identical in all compartments only when there is no elimination process. The tissue/plasma concentration ratios for infusion equilibrium are not equal to the corresponding values for the postdistribution phase after an intravenous bolus injection. When the plasma concentration for infusion and injection are the same, more drug will appear in the lung during infusion steady state than during the postdistribution equilibrium. The reverse is true for the other organs. The importance of properly defining the tissue/plasma ratio and its implication for pharmacokinetic modeling are discussed. The results may have important therapeutic implications for the availability of drugs using different routes of administration.", "PMID": 458554} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13328", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of digoxin: relationship between response intensity and predicted compartmental drug levels in man.", "content": "A study designed to investigate the relationship between the pharmacokinetics of digoxin and a measure of its pharmacological effect has been conducted. Serum digoxin concentrations and systolic time intervals were measured concurrently in 12 normal male volunteers following a 1.0 mg i.v. bolus injection. The averaged serum digoxin concentration--time and response--time data were analyzed pharmacokinetically using a three-compartment open model and nonlinear least-squares fitting. When only the serum level--time data were analyzed, a close relationship was found between calculated digoxin levels in the slowly distributing (deep) peripheral compartment and response of the heart to digoxin, as measured by changes in the QS2 index (delta QS2I). Although it was not possible to distinguish clearly a linear from a nonlinear relationship between digoxin levels in the deep compartment and delta QS2I, the nonlinear relationship gave the best overall fit when both serum digoxin and delta QS2I data were fitted simultaneously. The simultaneous fit yielded a total body clearance of digoxin of 3.6 ml/min/kg and a terminal t1/2 of 42 hr.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of digoxin: relationship between response intensity and predicted compartmental drug levels in man. A study designed to investigate the relationship between the pharmacokinetics of digoxin and a measure of its pharmacological effect has been conducted. Serum digoxin concentrations and systolic time intervals were measured concurrently in 12 normal male volunteers following a 1.0 mg i.v. bolus injection. The averaged serum digoxin concentration--time and response--time data were analyzed pharmacokinetically using a three-compartment open model and nonlinear least-squares fitting. When only the serum level--time data were analyzed, a close relationship was found between calculated digoxin levels in the slowly distributing (deep) peripheral compartment and response of the heart to digoxin, as measured by changes in the QS2 index (delta QS2I). Although it was not possible to distinguish clearly a linear from a nonlinear relationship between digoxin levels in the deep compartment and delta QS2I, the nonlinear relationship gave the best overall fit when both serum digoxin and delta QS2I data were fitted simultaneously. The simultaneous fit yielded a total body clearance of digoxin of 3.6 ml/min/kg and a terminal t1/2 of 42 hr.", "PMID": 458556} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13329", "title": "Time course of carbamazepine self-induction.", "content": "Carbamazepine concentrations in plasma during repetitive oral dosing were analyzed by means of a nonlinear, variable parameter, regression program (VARPARM) assuming dose-to-dose changes in the apparent elimination rate constant of the drug. There was evidence of significant self-induction of carbamazepine metabolism as early as 1 or 2 days after initiation of the multiple-dose study. Additional self-induction appears to occur after about 2 weeks of treatment. The time course of carbamazepine self-induction appears to be complex, discontinuous, and prolonged.", "contents": "Time course of carbamazepine self-induction. Carbamazepine concentrations in plasma during repetitive oral dosing were analyzed by means of a nonlinear, variable parameter, regression program (VARPARM) assuming dose-to-dose changes in the apparent elimination rate constant of the drug. There was evidence of significant self-induction of carbamazepine metabolism as early as 1 or 2 days after initiation of the multiple-dose study. Additional self-induction appears to occur after about 2 weeks of treatment. The time course of carbamazepine self-induction appears to be complex, discontinuous, and prolonged.", "PMID": 458557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13330", "title": "Clinical pharmacokinetics of procainamide infusions in relation to acetylator phenotype.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of procainamide was determined in 21 lidocaine-resistant patients who received the drug according to a pharmacokinetically designed double-infusion technique. Thirteen patients were phenotyped as slow acetylators, seven as fast, and one as intermediate. The total body clearances (ClT) of PA in slow and fast acetylators were 22.6 and 34.8 liters/hr, respectively. The fraction of PA cleared by the formation of NAPA in the corresponding acetylator group was 0.2 and 0.4. Renal impairment affected the pharmacokinetics of PA more profoundly as the ClT's of PA in patients with and without renal impairment were 17.9 and 31.2 liters/hr, respectively. None of the calculated volumes of distribution was affected by acetylator phenotype or renal impairment. These data identify the contribution of at least two of the major factors accounting for variability in PA disposition in patients undergoing therapy.", "contents": "Clinical pharmacokinetics of procainamide infusions in relation to acetylator phenotype. The pharmacokinetics of procainamide was determined in 21 lidocaine-resistant patients who received the drug according to a pharmacokinetically designed double-infusion technique. Thirteen patients were phenotyped as slow acetylators, seven as fast, and one as intermediate. The total body clearances (ClT) of PA in slow and fast acetylators were 22.6 and 34.8 liters/hr, respectively. The fraction of PA cleared by the formation of NAPA in the corresponding acetylator group was 0.2 and 0.4. Renal impairment affected the pharmacokinetics of PA more profoundly as the ClT's of PA in patients with and without renal impairment were 17.9 and 31.2 liters/hr, respectively. None of the calculated volumes of distribution was affected by acetylator phenotype or renal impairment. These data identify the contribution of at least two of the major factors accounting for variability in PA disposition in patients undergoing therapy.", "PMID": 458558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13331", "title": "Fitting concentration--time data to biexponential equations.", "content": "A digital computer study using simulated data containing random error indicates no difference in the precision and accuracy of parameter estimation when the data are fitted to several different equations.", "contents": "Fitting concentration--time data to biexponential equations. A digital computer study using simulated data containing random error indicates no difference in the precision and accuracy of parameter estimation when the data are fitted to several different equations.", "PMID": 458559} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13332", "title": "Mechanistic and quantitative evaluation of precorneal pilocarpine disposition in albino rabbits.", "content": "The low ocular bioavailability of topically applied pilocarpine is attributed to extensive precorneal drug loss in conjection with the resistance to corneal penetration. Several elements of precorneal loss were reported earlier, but a complete mechanistic understanding has not been available. The present study was designed to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms governing pilocarpine disposition in the precorneal areas as well as the relative influence of these parameters on ocular drug bioavailability. Radioactive pilocarpine and glycerin solutions were instilled into the precorneal area of the albino rabbit eye under various experimental conditions, and the drug concentration in the lacrimal lake was monitored as a function of time. The results demonstrated that nonconjunctival loss of pilocarpine, vasodilation due to the drug, and lacrimation due to vehicle formulation are additional aspects of precorneal drug disposition. The individual influence of all precorneal loss parameters on drug bioavailability was then assessed using a mathematical model formulated from experimental findings on both precorneal and intraocular drug disposition. Drainage and vasodilation, as well as nonconjunctival pilocarpine loss, exerted major influences on drug loss at the absorption site.", "contents": "Mechanistic and quantitative evaluation of precorneal pilocarpine disposition in albino rabbits. The low ocular bioavailability of topically applied pilocarpine is attributed to extensive precorneal drug loss in conjection with the resistance to corneal penetration. Several elements of precorneal loss were reported earlier, but a complete mechanistic understanding has not been available. The present study was designed to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms governing pilocarpine disposition in the precorneal areas as well as the relative influence of these parameters on ocular drug bioavailability. Radioactive pilocarpine and glycerin solutions were instilled into the precorneal area of the albino rabbit eye under various experimental conditions, and the drug concentration in the lacrimal lake was monitored as a function of time. The results demonstrated that nonconjunctival loss of pilocarpine, vasodilation due to the drug, and lacrimation due to vehicle formulation are additional aspects of precorneal drug disposition. The individual influence of all precorneal loss parameters on drug bioavailability was then assessed using a mathematical model formulated from experimental findings on both precorneal and intraocular drug disposition. Drainage and vasodilation, as well as nonconjunctival pilocarpine loss, exerted major influences on drug loss at the absorption site.", "PMID": 458563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13333", "title": "Controlled drug release from polymeric delivery devices V: Hydroxy group effects on drug release kinetics and thermodynamics.", "content": "The effects of progesterone hydroxylation on silicone matrix drug release kinetics and thermodynamics were investigated. Hydroxylation at positions 11, 17, and/or 21 substantially reduced progesterone release. The magnitude of this reduction depended on the number and position of the hydroxy groups and could be attributed to decreased polymer matrix diffusivity (Dm) and polymer solubility (Cp). Thermodynamically, hydroxy group addition to positions 11 and/or 21 reduced the activation energy for matrix diffusion (Ed,m) but increased the solvation energy for dissolution in silicone polymer (delta HT,m)). Adding an hydroxy group to position 17 increased the Ed,m but decreased the delta HT,m. The overall (Ed,m) + delta H(T,m)) values were relatively constant and independent of hydroxylation.", "contents": "Controlled drug release from polymeric delivery devices V: Hydroxy group effects on drug release kinetics and thermodynamics. The effects of progesterone hydroxylation on silicone matrix drug release kinetics and thermodynamics were investigated. Hydroxylation at positions 11, 17, and/or 21 substantially reduced progesterone release. The magnitude of this reduction depended on the number and position of the hydroxy groups and could be attributed to decreased polymer matrix diffusivity (Dm) and polymer solubility (Cp). Thermodynamically, hydroxy group addition to positions 11 and/or 21 reduced the activation energy for matrix diffusion (Ed,m) but increased the solvation energy for dissolution in silicone polymer (delta HT,m)). Adding an hydroxy group to position 17 increased the Ed,m but decreased the delta HT,m. The overall (Ed,m) + delta H(T,m)) values were relatively constant and independent of hydroxylation.", "PMID": 458564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13334", "title": "Antifertility and antiproteolytic activity of activated N-carbobenzoxy amino acid esters.", "content": "N-Carbobenzoxy L-phenylalanine, glycine, L-leucine, and L-proline derivatives, their vinyl esters, and their 1,2-dibromoethyl esters were tested for antifertility activity in mice. Intraperitoneal administration reduced the pregnancy percentage and the number of fetuses per litter. Intravaginal administration reduced the pregnancy percentage significantly, with N-carbobenzoxyglycine vinly ester, N-carbobenzoxyglycine-1,2-dibromoethyl ester, N-carbobenzoxyl-L-leucine-1,2-dibromoethyl ester, and N-carbobenzoxy-L-proline-1,2-dibromoethyl ester producing 100% inhibition at 10 mg/kg/day. Sperm enzyme hydrolysis of the nonspecific substrate azocasein was inhibited significantly by certain N-carbobenzoxy amino acid esters in vitro. Specific substrate N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester hydrolysis was also inhibited. Compounds that inhibited N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester hydrolysis also demonstrated in vivo intravaginal antifertility activity.", "contents": "Antifertility and antiproteolytic activity of activated N-carbobenzoxy amino acid esters. N-Carbobenzoxy L-phenylalanine, glycine, L-leucine, and L-proline derivatives, their vinyl esters, and their 1,2-dibromoethyl esters were tested for antifertility activity in mice. Intraperitoneal administration reduced the pregnancy percentage and the number of fetuses per litter. Intravaginal administration reduced the pregnancy percentage significantly, with N-carbobenzoxyglycine vinly ester, N-carbobenzoxyglycine-1,2-dibromoethyl ester, N-carbobenzoxyl-L-leucine-1,2-dibromoethyl ester, and N-carbobenzoxy-L-proline-1,2-dibromoethyl ester producing 100% inhibition at 10 mg/kg/day. Sperm enzyme hydrolysis of the nonspecific substrate azocasein was inhibited significantly by certain N-carbobenzoxy amino acid esters in vitro. Specific substrate N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester hydrolysis was also inhibited. Compounds that inhibited N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester hydrolysis also demonstrated in vivo intravaginal antifertility activity.", "PMID": 458565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13335", "title": "Bioavailability and dissolution behavior of trisulfapyrimidine suspensions.", "content": "The bioavailability of seven commercial trisulfapyrimidine suspensions was studied in 14 adult male volunteers. Fifteen blood samples were collected over a 48-hr period following administration of a 1-g dose of each suspension. Serum was assayed for each component (sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine) by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Analysis of variance indicated several significant differences among the seven commercial preparations with respect to Cmax Tmax, and AUC for sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine, The in vitro behavior of each suspension was then studied by the paddle method of the Food and Drug Administration. A 0.5-ml sample was introduced into 900 ml of hydrochloric acid (2.2 x 10(-4) M) at 37 degree and dissolved using a paddle speed of 25 rpm. Samples withdrawn at 15 and 30 min were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography, and the percent of sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine was calculated. Significant correlation was obtained between an in vivo parameter (Cmax for sulfadiazine) and an in vitro parameter (percent sulfadiazine dissolved in 30 min). Results indicate that this method is suitable for the in vitro screening of trisulapyrimidine suspensions.", "contents": "Bioavailability and dissolution behavior of trisulfapyrimidine suspensions. The bioavailability of seven commercial trisulfapyrimidine suspensions was studied in 14 adult male volunteers. Fifteen blood samples were collected over a 48-hr period following administration of a 1-g dose of each suspension. Serum was assayed for each component (sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine) by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Analysis of variance indicated several significant differences among the seven commercial preparations with respect to Cmax Tmax, and AUC for sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine, The in vitro behavior of each suspension was then studied by the paddle method of the Food and Drug Administration. A 0.5-ml sample was introduced into 900 ml of hydrochloric acid (2.2 x 10(-4) M) at 37 degree and dissolved using a paddle speed of 25 rpm. Samples withdrawn at 15 and 30 min were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography, and the percent of sulfadiazine, sulfamerazine, and sulfamethazine was calculated. Significant correlation was obtained between an in vivo parameter (Cmax for sulfadiazine) and an in vitro parameter (percent sulfadiazine dissolved in 30 min). Results indicate that this method is suitable for the in vitro screening of trisulapyrimidine suspensions.", "PMID": 458566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13336", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for imipramine, desipramine, and their 2-hydroxylated metabolites.", "content": "High-performance liquid chromatographic method is presented for the simultaneous determination of imipramine, desipramine, and their 2-hydroxylated metabolites in plasma. The method involves a simple plasma extraction at basic pH with organic solvent, chromatography on a silica gel column, and fluorescence detection. Correlation with a GLC-mass spectrometric method for imipramine and desipramine is illustrated. The method can detect 1 ng of each component/ml of plasma, sufficient sensitivity for pharmocokinetic studies.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for imipramine, desipramine, and their 2-hydroxylated metabolites. High-performance liquid chromatographic method is presented for the simultaneous determination of imipramine, desipramine, and their 2-hydroxylated metabolites in plasma. The method involves a simple plasma extraction at basic pH with organic solvent, chromatography on a silica gel column, and fluorescence detection. Correlation with a GLC-mass spectrometric method for imipramine and desipramine is illustrated. The method can detect 1 ng of each component/ml of plasma, sufficient sensitivity for pharmocokinetic studies.", "PMID": 458567} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13337", "title": "Chemistry of 8-chloroberberine.", "content": "8-Chloroberberine (V), obtained by treatment of oxyberberine (I) with phosphorus oxychloride, is a reactive intermediate. Treatment with ammonia, methylamine, n-propylamine, aniline, and p-toluidine furnished the 8-berberinylidene derivatives IV and VII-X. Reaction of V with malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, and ethyl malonate anions yielded the 8-berberinylidene derivatives XII-XIV. Acid hydrolysis of XIV gave 8-berberinylacetic acid (XV) whose reduction provided 8-canadinylacetic acid (XVI). Grignard reagents react readily with V. Methylmagnesium iodide, ethylmagnesium iodide, and benzylmagnesium iodide led to 8,8-dimethyldihydroberberine (XVII), 8,8-diethyldihydroberberine (XIX), and the benzyl derivative XX, respectively. Sodium borohydride reduction of XX gave rise to 8-benzylcanadine (XXI).", "contents": "Chemistry of 8-chloroberberine. 8-Chloroberberine (V), obtained by treatment of oxyberberine (I) with phosphorus oxychloride, is a reactive intermediate. Treatment with ammonia, methylamine, n-propylamine, aniline, and p-toluidine furnished the 8-berberinylidene derivatives IV and VII-X. Reaction of V with malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, and ethyl malonate anions yielded the 8-berberinylidene derivatives XII-XIV. Acid hydrolysis of XIV gave 8-berberinylacetic acid (XV) whose reduction provided 8-canadinylacetic acid (XVI). Grignard reagents react readily with V. Methylmagnesium iodide, ethylmagnesium iodide, and benzylmagnesium iodide led to 8,8-dimethyldihydroberberine (XVII), 8,8-diethyldihydroberberine (XIX), and the benzyl derivative XX, respectively. Sodium borohydride reduction of XX gave rise to 8-benzylcanadine (XXI).", "PMID": 458568} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13338", "title": "Comparative studies on eight dissolution method using 21 commercial chloramphenicol tablets and a nondisintegrating benzoic acid tablet.", "content": "Eight dissolution methods (beaker, rotating basket, oscillating basket, solubility simulator, rotating flask, and column) were evaluated using 21 commercial film-coated chloramphenicol (I) tablets and a nondisintegrating benzoic acid (II) tablet. The relative agitating intensities obtained from different dissolution methods were compared through the relative zero-order nondisintegrating tablet dissolution rate constants. Correlation coefficients between I dissolution rate parameters (lag time, T20, T50, and T80) were determined. Significant correlation was observed for the lag time among seven methods, and all pairwise regression lines passed through zero except one. The regression line slopes reflected the relative destructive force intensities produced by each dissolution method on the coated I tablet films. The seven dissolution methods could be classified into two main groups according to correlations of four dissolution rate parameters. The classification criterion agreed well with that based on the agitation method. However, dissolution methods may not be interchangeable even though they belong to the same dissolution method group.", "contents": "Comparative studies on eight dissolution method using 21 commercial chloramphenicol tablets and a nondisintegrating benzoic acid tablet. Eight dissolution methods (beaker, rotating basket, oscillating basket, solubility simulator, rotating flask, and column) were evaluated using 21 commercial film-coated chloramphenicol (I) tablets and a nondisintegrating benzoic acid (II) tablet. The relative agitating intensities obtained from different dissolution methods were compared through the relative zero-order nondisintegrating tablet dissolution rate constants. Correlation coefficients between I dissolution rate parameters (lag time, T20, T50, and T80) were determined. Significant correlation was observed for the lag time among seven methods, and all pairwise regression lines passed through zero except one. The regression line slopes reflected the relative destructive force intensities produced by each dissolution method on the coated I tablet films. The seven dissolution methods could be classified into two main groups according to correlations of four dissolution rate parameters. The classification criterion agreed well with that based on the agitation method. However, dissolution methods may not be interchangeable even though they belong to the same dissolution method group.", "PMID": 458569} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13339", "title": "Antitumor agents: structure--activity relationships in tenulin series.", "content": "Systematic structural modifications were performed on the natural sesquiterpene lactone tenulin to define those groupings essential to, or significant in, its in vivo antitumor activity. Accordingly, the following tenulin analogs were prepared: dihydrotenulin, 2,3-epoxytenulin, isotenulin, dihydroisotenulin, 2,3-epoxyisotenulin, and tetrahydrodeacetylisotenulin. Both the cyclopentenone and the hemiketal units in tenulin were necessary for high in vivo activity.", "contents": "Antitumor agents: structure--activity relationships in tenulin series. Systematic structural modifications were performed on the natural sesquiterpene lactone tenulin to define those groupings essential to, or significant in, its in vivo antitumor activity. Accordingly, the following tenulin analogs were prepared: dihydrotenulin, 2,3-epoxytenulin, isotenulin, dihydroisotenulin, 2,3-epoxyisotenulin, and tetrahydrodeacetylisotenulin. Both the cyclopentenone and the hemiketal units in tenulin were necessary for high in vivo activity.", "PMID": 458570} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13340", "title": "GLC determination of whole blood antimalarial concentrations.", "content": "An assay was developed for determining mefloquine (quinolinemethanol) and pyridinemethanol derivative concentrations in whole blood. The method involved ion-pair extraction or usual solvent extraction for drug recovery from whole blood followed by trimethylsilylation. The silylated compounds were then submitted to GLC with electron-capture or flame-ionization detection. Mass spectrometry combined with GLC of the trimethylsilyl derivatives indicated that substitution of one trimethylsilyl group had occurred on the hydroxyl group. A phenyl methyl silicone column with temperature programming separated the drugs from normal blood extracts. The determination limit was 10 ng/ml of whole blood when an electron-capture detector was used with ion-pair extraction. Quantitation was achieved by using one antimalarial as an internal standard for the assay of the other. The utility of the present method was demonstrated by following the whole blood level time course after a single oral 250-mg tablet in beagle dogs.", "contents": "GLC determination of whole blood antimalarial concentrations. An assay was developed for determining mefloquine (quinolinemethanol) and pyridinemethanol derivative concentrations in whole blood. The method involved ion-pair extraction or usual solvent extraction for drug recovery from whole blood followed by trimethylsilylation. The silylated compounds were then submitted to GLC with electron-capture or flame-ionization detection. Mass spectrometry combined with GLC of the trimethylsilyl derivatives indicated that substitution of one trimethylsilyl group had occurred on the hydroxyl group. A phenyl methyl silicone column with temperature programming separated the drugs from normal blood extracts. The determination limit was 10 ng/ml of whole blood when an electron-capture detector was used with ion-pair extraction. Quantitation was achieved by using one antimalarial as an internal standard for the assay of the other. The utility of the present method was demonstrated by following the whole blood level time course after a single oral 250-mg tablet in beagle dogs.", "PMID": 458571} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13341", "title": "Powder homogenization using a hammer mill.", "content": "Hammer mill applicability in the comixing milling operation is discussed with reference to a 1:1000 microfine salicylic acid-sucrose binary system. The hammer mill would not serve as a mixing machine under most circumstances because of the low holdup capacity. Grinding of pure materials was preferable to mixture grinding since active ingredients could be lost during the milling operation. Remixing was always necessary following comminution of the mixture in the hammer mill. Grinding followed by remixing considerably enhanced mixture homogeneity. A large size range was produced by comminution, which resulted in the segregation of ordered units such that the final mixture could be described as a randomized ordered mixture.", "contents": "Powder homogenization using a hammer mill. Hammer mill applicability in the comixing milling operation is discussed with reference to a 1:1000 microfine salicylic acid-sucrose binary system. The hammer mill would not serve as a mixing machine under most circumstances because of the low holdup capacity. Grinding of pure materials was preferable to mixture grinding since active ingredients could be lost during the milling operation. Remixing was always necessary following comminution of the mixture in the hammer mill. Grinding followed by remixing considerably enhanced mixture homogeneity. A large size range was produced by comminution, which resulted in the segregation of ordered units such that the final mixture could be described as a randomized ordered mixture.", "PMID": 458572} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13342", "title": "Vehicle effects on ocular drug bioavailability III: Shear-facilitated pilocarpine release from ointments.", "content": "Pilocarpine release from water-in-oil emulsion ointments was studied in vitro and in vivo, using albino rabbits. Pilocarpine release from the vehicle to the ocular fluids was dependent on shear, i.e.,blinking, and the dosing system emulsifying efficiency. A mechanical shearing component was vital for correlating corneal drug penetration and the in vitro pilocarpine release pattern. Simple diffusion studies with the vehicles did not predict drug in vivo release, but the ointment systems were all superior to an aqueous pilocarpine solution. Incorporation of a mechanical shearing component to mimic blinking gave good correlation of in vitro and in vivo results. Also, increasing the vehicle emulsifying efficiency by surfactant addition decreased shear-facilitated drug release and in vivo performance. Finally, increasing the internal aqueous phase volume fraction decreased in vivo performance and was linked to the influence of effective drug concentration in the vehicle.", "contents": "Vehicle effects on ocular drug bioavailability III: Shear-facilitated pilocarpine release from ointments. Pilocarpine release from water-in-oil emulsion ointments was studied in vitro and in vivo, using albino rabbits. Pilocarpine release from the vehicle to the ocular fluids was dependent on shear, i.e.,blinking, and the dosing system emulsifying efficiency. A mechanical shearing component was vital for correlating corneal drug penetration and the in vitro pilocarpine release pattern. Simple diffusion studies with the vehicles did not predict drug in vivo release, but the ointment systems were all superior to an aqueous pilocarpine solution. Incorporation of a mechanical shearing component to mimic blinking gave good correlation of in vitro and in vivo results. Also, increasing the vehicle emulsifying efficiency by surfactant addition decreased shear-facilitated drug release and in vivo performance. Finally, increasing the internal aqueous phase volume fraction decreased in vivo performance and was linked to the influence of effective drug concentration in the vehicle.", "PMID": 458573} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13343", "title": "Enhanced chartreusin solubility by hydroxybenzoate hydrotropy.", "content": "The apparent aqueous solubility of the water-insoluble cytotoxic agent, chartreusin, was increased at neutral pH in the presence of hydroxybenzoates. Water molecules play an important role in the chartreusin conformation. Studies included solubility and spectral examinations. The weakest and strongest interactants with chartreusin were sodium benzoate and sodium trihydroxybenzoate, respectively, while the effect of mono- and dihydroxybenzoates was intermediate. A plane-to-plane orientation of chartreusin and the ligand molecules brought together by electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions is postulated. The dramatic chartreusin aqueous solubility increase relative to its aglycone, chartarin, under similar conditions was best rationalized by micellization.", "contents": "Enhanced chartreusin solubility by hydroxybenzoate hydrotropy. The apparent aqueous solubility of the water-insoluble cytotoxic agent, chartreusin, was increased at neutral pH in the presence of hydroxybenzoates. Water molecules play an important role in the chartreusin conformation. Studies included solubility and spectral examinations. The weakest and strongest interactants with chartreusin were sodium benzoate and sodium trihydroxybenzoate, respectively, while the effect of mono- and dihydroxybenzoates was intermediate. A plane-to-plane orientation of chartreusin and the ligand molecules brought together by electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions is postulated. The dramatic chartreusin aqueous solubility increase relative to its aglycone, chartarin, under similar conditions was best rationalized by micellization.", "PMID": 458574} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13344", "title": "Stability-indicating analysis of injectable estrogen-androgen combinations in formulations containing corn oil.", "content": "A method was developed for the analysis of testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone, 17-beta-estradiol 3,17-dienanthate, and estradiol benzoate combinations dissolved in an oily vehicle. Testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone was separated from the other drugs and vehicle components by chromatography on an acetonitrile-infusorial earth column followed by quantitation using UV spectroscopy. The estradiol esters were separated from the oil by an additional chromatographic step using a heptane-silanized infusorial earth column prior to quantitation by GLC. Subjecting formulations to elevated temperatures resulted in detectable losses for testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone and 17-beta-estradiol 3,17-dienanthate. For both drugs, degradation was due to hydroxysis; the degradation products, testosterone 17-enanthate and 17-beta-estradiol 17-enanthate, did not interfere with the intact drug determination. Methods also were developed to estimate degradation product levels in the formulation.", "contents": "Stability-indicating analysis of injectable estrogen-androgen combinations in formulations containing corn oil. A method was developed for the analysis of testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone, 17-beta-estradiol 3,17-dienanthate, and estradiol benzoate combinations dissolved in an oily vehicle. Testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone was separated from the other drugs and vehicle components by chromatography on an acetonitrile-infusorial earth column followed by quantitation using UV spectroscopy. The estradiol esters were separated from the oil by an additional chromatographic step using a heptane-silanized infusorial earth column prior to quantitation by GLC. Subjecting formulations to elevated temperatures resulted in detectable losses for testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone and 17-beta-estradiol 3,17-dienanthate. For both drugs, degradation was due to hydroxysis; the degradation products, testosterone 17-enanthate and 17-beta-estradiol 17-enanthate, did not interfere with the intact drug determination. Methods also were developed to estimate degradation product levels in the formulation.", "PMID": 458575} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13345", "title": "syn-anti Isomerization in testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone.", "content": "UV spectrophotometry, high-pressure liquid chromatography, and NMR were used to investigate syn-anti isomerization in testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone. In the crystalline state, the isomeric ratio is dependent on the crystallization solvent. In solutions, including injectable pharmaceutical formulations, an equilibrium isomer mixture (2:1) is formed.", "contents": "syn-anti Isomerization in testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone. UV spectrophotometry, high-pressure liquid chromatography, and NMR were used to investigate syn-anti isomerization in testosterone 17-enanthate 3-benzilic acid hydrazone. In the crystalline state, the isomeric ratio is dependent on the crystallization solvent. In solutions, including injectable pharmaceutical formulations, an equilibrium isomer mixture (2:1) is formed.", "PMID": 458576} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13346", "title": "Spectrophotometric determination of tolbutamide, thiamine hydrochloride, and pyridoxine hydrochloride in combination products.", "content": "The first derivative curve is used for tolbutamide determination in unit-dose tablets and in combination products. The absorbance contribution from tablet excipient and coexisting components, thiamine and pyridoxine, is thereby nullified. The interference from tolbutamide during thiamine and pyridoxine determination is eliminated by solvent extraction and pH-induced differential spectrophotometry. Thiamine is measured at the isosbestic point of pyridoxine. The latter is determined by the differential absorbance measurement at two wavelengths with the consequent computation of the delta absorbance value.", "contents": "Spectrophotometric determination of tolbutamide, thiamine hydrochloride, and pyridoxine hydrochloride in combination products. The first derivative curve is used for tolbutamide determination in unit-dose tablets and in combination products. The absorbance contribution from tablet excipient and coexisting components, thiamine and pyridoxine, is thereby nullified. The interference from tolbutamide during thiamine and pyridoxine determination is eliminated by solvent extraction and pH-induced differential spectrophotometry. Thiamine is measured at the isosbestic point of pyridoxine. The latter is determined by the differential absorbance measurement at two wavelengths with the consequent computation of the delta absorbance value.", "PMID": 458577} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13347", "title": "Effect of serum protein binding on sulfisoxazole distribution, metabolism, and excretion in rats.", "content": "This investigation determined the effect of serum protein binding on the kinetics of sulfisoxazole distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Adult rats, whose serum free fraction of sulfisoxazole (at a total concentration of 81 +/- 6 micrograms/ml) was 0.05-0.24, received a rapid intravenous injection of 20 mg/kg. Sulfisoxazole concentrations in plasma declined biexponentially with time. There were pronounced and reproducible interindividual differences in the total, metabolic, and renal sulfisoxazole clearances, each positively correlated with the serum free fraction of sulfisoxazole. The renal sulfisoxazole clearance had a component unaffected by serum protein binding. The apparent central compartment volume increased with an increasing serum free sulfisoxazole fraction, but the latter had not apparent effect on the first exponential term of the biexponential equation describing sulfisoxazole elimination kinetics in rats. Serum protein binding was a major determinant of intersubject differences in sulfisoxazole excretion and biotransformation kinetics.", "contents": "Effect of serum protein binding on sulfisoxazole distribution, metabolism, and excretion in rats. This investigation determined the effect of serum protein binding on the kinetics of sulfisoxazole distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Adult rats, whose serum free fraction of sulfisoxazole (at a total concentration of 81 +/- 6 micrograms/ml) was 0.05-0.24, received a rapid intravenous injection of 20 mg/kg. Sulfisoxazole concentrations in plasma declined biexponentially with time. There were pronounced and reproducible interindividual differences in the total, metabolic, and renal sulfisoxazole clearances, each positively correlated with the serum free fraction of sulfisoxazole. The renal sulfisoxazole clearance had a component unaffected by serum protein binding. The apparent central compartment volume increased with an increasing serum free sulfisoxazole fraction, but the latter had not apparent effect on the first exponential term of the biexponential equation describing sulfisoxazole elimination kinetics in rats. Serum protein binding was a major determinant of intersubject differences in sulfisoxazole excretion and biotransformation kinetics.", "PMID": 458578} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13348", "title": "Analysis of hydrophobic amine antimalarials in biological fluids with the plastic ion-selective electrode.", "content": "Plastic ion-selective electrode analysis of the hydrophobic amine antimalarial mefloquine in blood samples was investigated. The direct electrode response in plasma samples provided poor drug sensitivity due to high mefloquine protein binding. The drug was analyzed in whole blood by initial extraction into ether as its trichloroacetate ion-pair. Mefloquine was monitored in whole blood extracts with the electrode to moderately low levels (to 0.4 microgram/ml). Rapid blood mefloquine level monitoring by this electrode was demonstrated in a bioavailability study. Mefloquine alkylation with various alkyl halides produced derivatives detectable by the electrode at much lower levels (up to two orders of magnitude) than the parent. A kinetic study of this alkylation reaction revealed that an alkyl amine base was necessary to scavenge the acid produced during reaction and to allow the reaction to go to completion. At room temperature, with benzyl bromide as the reagent, reaction was 99% complete in 30 min and mefloquine could be detected to approximately to 10(-8) M, a 100-fold improvement in sensitivity over electrode monitoring of underivatized mefloquine.", "contents": "Analysis of hydrophobic amine antimalarials in biological fluids with the plastic ion-selective electrode. Plastic ion-selective electrode analysis of the hydrophobic amine antimalarial mefloquine in blood samples was investigated. The direct electrode response in plasma samples provided poor drug sensitivity due to high mefloquine protein binding. The drug was analyzed in whole blood by initial extraction into ether as its trichloroacetate ion-pair. Mefloquine was monitored in whole blood extracts with the electrode to moderately low levels (to 0.4 microgram/ml). Rapid blood mefloquine level monitoring by this electrode was demonstrated in a bioavailability study. Mefloquine alkylation with various alkyl halides produced derivatives detectable by the electrode at much lower levels (up to two orders of magnitude) than the parent. A kinetic study of this alkylation reaction revealed that an alkyl amine base was necessary to scavenge the acid produced during reaction and to allow the reaction to go to completion. At room temperature, with benzyl bromide as the reagent, reaction was 99% complete in 30 min and mefloquine could be detected to approximately to 10(-8) M, a 100-fold improvement in sensitivity over electrode monitoring of underivatized mefloquine.", "PMID": 458579} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13349", "title": "Colorimetric acetaminophen determination in pharmaceutical formulations.", "content": "Different approaches for the colorimetric determination of acetaminophen, based on its coupling with diazotized o-nitroaniline, are described. Copper(II) chelation with the coupled compound makes the method highly selective. Sensitivity is increased when the acetaminophen assay is carried out indirectly through the determination of the chelate's copper content. Optimum conditions for performing the different approaches are described. The stoichiometric balance for the reactants in the coupled compound and chelate is determined. The degree of dissociation and the instability constant are computed. The rectilinear relationship between the absorbance of the different products and the concentration of acetaminophen allows for its determination in different pharmaceutical formulations. Compared with the official method, the proposed methods give more accurate results.", "contents": "Colorimetric acetaminophen determination in pharmaceutical formulations. Different approaches for the colorimetric determination of acetaminophen, based on its coupling with diazotized o-nitroaniline, are described. Copper(II) chelation with the coupled compound makes the method highly selective. Sensitivity is increased when the acetaminophen assay is carried out indirectly through the determination of the chelate's copper content. Optimum conditions for performing the different approaches are described. The stoichiometric balance for the reactants in the coupled compound and chelate is determined. The degree of dissociation and the instability constant are computed. The rectilinear relationship between the absorbance of the different products and the concentration of acetaminophen allows for its determination in different pharmaceutical formulations. Compared with the official method, the proposed methods give more accurate results.", "PMID": 458580} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13350", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of morphine and its surrogates. III: Morphine and morphine 3-monoglucuronide pharmacokinetics in the dog as a function of dose.", "content": "The pharmacokinetics of morphine and its derived metabolite, morphine 3-monoglucuronide, were studied in normal and bile-cannulated dogs. High doses (7.2-7.7 mg/kg iv) caused renal and biliary shutdowns and time lags in urinary drug and metabolite excretion and in biliary secretion of the hepatically formed conjugate. Intermediate doses (0.41-0.47 mg/kg iv) inhibited urine flow but not renal clearance. Low doses (0.019-0.07 mg/kg iv) had no apparent effect. Dose-related effects on the total, metabolic, and biliary clearances imply saturable enzymes and/or dose-inhibited hepatic flows, accounting for the major elimination half-lives of 83 +/- 8 and 37 +/- 13 min at the high and low doses, respectively. The slow terminal phase in plasma morphine and metabolite elimination and urinary accumulation is due apparently to the enterohepatic metabolite recirculation after biliary excretion, gastrointestinal hydrolysis, and hepatic first-pass reconjugation. Bile-cannulated dogs showed no fecal drug and no slow terminal plasma and urine elimination phases. Intravenous morphine 3-monoglucuronide was eliminated only renally and showed neither biliary excretion nor prolonged hepatically formed glucuronide elimination. Hepatic morphine clearances at normal therapeutic doses parallel hepatic blood flow and explain the lack of oral morphine bioavailability by anticipating complete first-pass liver metabolism. Renal morphine and morphine conjugate clearances were 85 (+/- 9 SEM) and 41 (+/- 4 SEM) ml/min, respectively, indicating glomerular filtration for the latter and glomerular filtration plus tubular secretion for the former. Urinary morphine and morphine conjugate excretion accounted for approximately to 83% of the dose. Biliary secretion accounted for 11-14% of the dose. Morphine showed dose-independent plasma protein binding of 36 (+/- 1 SEM) % and a red cell-plasma water partition coefficient of 1.11 +/- 0.04 SD. New equations were developed to model the discontinuous morphine and morphine metabolite pharmacokinetics.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of morphine and its surrogates. III: Morphine and morphine 3-monoglucuronide pharmacokinetics in the dog as a function of dose. The pharmacokinetics of morphine and its derived metabolite, morphine 3-monoglucuronide, were studied in normal and bile-cannulated dogs. High doses (7.2-7.7 mg/kg iv) caused renal and biliary shutdowns and time lags in urinary drug and metabolite excretion and in biliary secretion of the hepatically formed conjugate. Intermediate doses (0.41-0.47 mg/kg iv) inhibited urine flow but not renal clearance. Low doses (0.019-0.07 mg/kg iv) had no apparent effect. Dose-related effects on the total, metabolic, and biliary clearances imply saturable enzymes and/or dose-inhibited hepatic flows, accounting for the major elimination half-lives of 83 +/- 8 and 37 +/- 13 min at the high and low doses, respectively. The slow terminal phase in plasma morphine and metabolite elimination and urinary accumulation is due apparently to the enterohepatic metabolite recirculation after biliary excretion, gastrointestinal hydrolysis, and hepatic first-pass reconjugation. Bile-cannulated dogs showed no fecal drug and no slow terminal plasma and urine elimination phases. Intravenous morphine 3-monoglucuronide was eliminated only renally and showed neither biliary excretion nor prolonged hepatically formed glucuronide elimination. Hepatic morphine clearances at normal therapeutic doses parallel hepatic blood flow and explain the lack of oral morphine bioavailability by anticipating complete first-pass liver metabolism. Renal morphine and morphine conjugate clearances were 85 (+/- 9 SEM) and 41 (+/- 4 SEM) ml/min, respectively, indicating glomerular filtration for the latter and glomerular filtration plus tubular secretion for the former. Urinary morphine and morphine conjugate excretion accounted for approximately to 83% of the dose. Biliary secretion accounted for 11-14% of the dose. Morphine showed dose-independent plasma protein binding of 36 (+/- 1 SEM) % and a red cell-plasma water partition coefficient of 1.11 +/- 0.04 SD. New equations were developed to model the discontinuous morphine and morphine metabolite pharmacokinetics.", "PMID": 458581} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13351", "title": "Monoamine oxidase inhibition by beta-carbolines: a quantum chemical approach.", "content": "Monoamine oxidase inhibition by beta-carboline derivatives is related to the energy change, delta E, arising from complex formation between the inhibitor and the enzyme. The energy change was expressed in terms of electronic indexes, which were estimated for a set of aromatic beta-carbolines. The electronic indexes were correlated to the experimental activity indexes by a simplified quantum chemical perturbational treatment with a multiple regression procedure. A characteristic structure for the inhibitor-enzyme complex was derived from the correlation. The molecules are linked by two kinds of bond. One involves the lone pyridine nitrogen pair of beta-carbolines; the other is due to a pi-electronic interaction between the inhibitor indole fragment and a suitable area of the enzyme. Such a model explains the competitive inhibition by beta-carbolines compared to tryptamine and other aromatic amines that are monoamine oxidase substrates.", "contents": "Monoamine oxidase inhibition by beta-carbolines: a quantum chemical approach. Monoamine oxidase inhibition by beta-carboline derivatives is related to the energy change, delta E, arising from complex formation between the inhibitor and the enzyme. The energy change was expressed in terms of electronic indexes, which were estimated for a set of aromatic beta-carbolines. The electronic indexes were correlated to the experimental activity indexes by a simplified quantum chemical perturbational treatment with a multiple regression procedure. A characteristic structure for the inhibitor-enzyme complex was derived from the correlation. The molecules are linked by two kinds of bond. One involves the lone pyridine nitrogen pair of beta-carbolines; the other is due to a pi-electronic interaction between the inhibitor indole fragment and a suitable area of the enzyme. Such a model explains the competitive inhibition by beta-carbolines compared to tryptamine and other aromatic amines that are monoamine oxidase substrates.", "PMID": 458582} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13352", "title": "Modified USP assay for simultaneous determination of aspirin and nonaspirin salicylates in aspirin and buffered aspirin tablets.", "content": "Modified USP procedures are described for the simultaneous determination of nonaspirin salicylates and aspirin in aspirin and buffered aspirin tablets. The existing USP procedures are not stability indicating for intact aspirin when significant levels of nonaspirin salicylates are present, as is often the case in short-term, high temperature stability programs. The modified procedures yeld considerably shorter analysis times and stability-indicating assays for intact aspirin without the need for sophisticated equipment other than that presently required by USP XIX.", "contents": "Modified USP assay for simultaneous determination of aspirin and nonaspirin salicylates in aspirin and buffered aspirin tablets. Modified USP procedures are described for the simultaneous determination of nonaspirin salicylates and aspirin in aspirin and buffered aspirin tablets. The existing USP procedures are not stability indicating for intact aspirin when significant levels of nonaspirin salicylates are present, as is often the case in short-term, high temperature stability programs. The modified procedures yeld considerably shorter analysis times and stability-indicating assays for intact aspirin without the need for sophisticated equipment other than that presently required by USP XIX.", "PMID": 458583} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13353", "title": "Evaluation of lanolin alcohol films and kinetics of triamcinolone acetonide release.", "content": "The film-forming potential of lanolin alcohol was evaluated. Inclusion of ethylcellulose in lanolin alcohol improved film integrity. The hardness and modulus of elasticity of these lanolin alcohol-ethylcellulose films were improved by incorporating propylene glycol or cetyl alcohol. Triamcinolone acetonide release from selected film compositions was investigated. The data were analyzed from the viewpoint of the first-order kinetic theory and the release from a planar system having a homogeneous or granular matrix. The results suggest that the drug release follows a diffusion-controlled matrix model and a square root of time release profile. The release rate constants were proportional to drug concentration. Drug release was maximal from a system containing the drug in a near-saturated solution.", "contents": "Evaluation of lanolin alcohol films and kinetics of triamcinolone acetonide release. The film-forming potential of lanolin alcohol was evaluated. Inclusion of ethylcellulose in lanolin alcohol improved film integrity. The hardness and modulus of elasticity of these lanolin alcohol-ethylcellulose films were improved by incorporating propylene glycol or cetyl alcohol. Triamcinolone acetonide release from selected film compositions was investigated. The data were analyzed from the viewpoint of the first-order kinetic theory and the release from a planar system having a homogeneous or granular matrix. The results suggest that the drug release follows a diffusion-controlled matrix model and a square root of time release profile. The release rate constants were proportional to drug concentration. Drug release was maximal from a system containing the drug in a near-saturated solution.", "PMID": 458584} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13354", "title": "Nortropacocaine hydrochloride conformation in aqueous and hydrophobic media.", "content": "The nortropacocaine hydrochloride PMR spectra in deuterium oxide and in deuterochloroform differed markedly. A detailed conformational analysis using vicinal 1H-1H coupling constants revealed the molecular conformation to be identical in both solvents. The preferred conformation was one in which the piperidine component existed as a deformed chair. The spectral differences were due to a decreased deshielding of the protonated nitrogen on the neighboring bicyclic ring protons, resulting in chemical shift changes.", "contents": "Nortropacocaine hydrochloride conformation in aqueous and hydrophobic media. The nortropacocaine hydrochloride PMR spectra in deuterium oxide and in deuterochloroform differed markedly. A detailed conformational analysis using vicinal 1H-1H coupling constants revealed the molecular conformation to be identical in both solvents. The preferred conformation was one in which the piperidine component existed as a deformed chair. The spectral differences were due to a decreased deshielding of the protonated nitrogen on the neighboring bicyclic ring protons, resulting in chemical shift changes.", "PMID": 458585} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13355", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of drugs subject to enterohepatic circulation.", "content": "The influence of the changes in biliary excretion and reabsorption rates on the pharmacokinetics of drugs subject to enterohepatic circulation was examined analytically. A recently proposed two-compartment model with drug elimination occurring in each compartment was adapted to represent the body and the GI tract. Enhanced reabsorption was equivalent to biliary excretion rate reduction, except that the latter always decreased alpha and prolonged the alpha-phase half-life while the former always increased alpha and shortened the half-life. However, depending on the relative values of the two elimination rate constants, biliary excretion reduction (or reabsorption enhancement) could either increase or decrease the terminal drug half-life (beta-phase). Whether the terminal drug half-life was prolonged or shortened, a biliary excretion reduction always increased the area under the plasma decay curve for intravenous and oral doses and also raised the steady-state drug level in the body for constant-rate intravenous infusion. As a consequence, the lethality, toxicity, or effectiveness of the drug will be increased for patients with impaired bile flow or enhanced drug reabsorption; therefore, the clinical dosage may have to be reduced.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of drugs subject to enterohepatic circulation. The influence of the changes in biliary excretion and reabsorption rates on the pharmacokinetics of drugs subject to enterohepatic circulation was examined analytically. A recently proposed two-compartment model with drug elimination occurring in each compartment was adapted to represent the body and the GI tract. Enhanced reabsorption was equivalent to biliary excretion rate reduction, except that the latter always decreased alpha and prolonged the alpha-phase half-life while the former always increased alpha and shortened the half-life. However, depending on the relative values of the two elimination rate constants, biliary excretion reduction (or reabsorption enhancement) could either increase or decrease the terminal drug half-life (beta-phase). Whether the terminal drug half-life was prolonged or shortened, a biliary excretion reduction always increased the area under the plasma decay curve for intravenous and oral doses and also raised the steady-state drug level in the body for constant-rate intravenous infusion. As a consequence, the lethality, toxicity, or effectiveness of the drug will be increased for patients with impaired bile flow or enhanced drug reabsorption; therefore, the clinical dosage may have to be reduced.", "PMID": 458586} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13356", "title": "Progestin permeation through polymer membranes III: Polymerization solvent effect on progesterone permeation through hydrogel membranes.", "content": "Hydrogels prepared from poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) are biocompatible and highly permeable to low molecular weight solutes. Permeation rates can be varied by altering the cross-linker concentration or using copolymers; the latter are chosen to alter the hydrogel equilibrium hydration. These factors suggest that hydrogels are good candidates for controlled-release drug delivery devices. Hydrogels may be synthesized using various temperatures, initiators (nature and concentration), and solvents (nature and concentration). This study demonstrated that progesterone permeation through poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) films is independent of polymerization solvent (nature and concentration) for the solvents, water, ethanol, and tert-butyl alcohol. The importance of hydrogel equilibrium hydration in progesterone permeation is emphasized.", "contents": "Progestin permeation through polymer membranes III: Polymerization solvent effect on progesterone permeation through hydrogel membranes. Hydrogels prepared from poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) are biocompatible and highly permeable to low molecular weight solutes. Permeation rates can be varied by altering the cross-linker concentration or using copolymers; the latter are chosen to alter the hydrogel equilibrium hydration. These factors suggest that hydrogels are good candidates for controlled-release drug delivery devices. Hydrogels may be synthesized using various temperatures, initiators (nature and concentration), and solvents (nature and concentration). This study demonstrated that progesterone permeation through poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) films is independent of polymerization solvent (nature and concentration) for the solvents, water, ethanol, and tert-butyl alcohol. The importance of hydrogel equilibrium hydration in progesterone permeation is emphasized.", "PMID": 458587} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13357", "title": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic analysis of veterinary anthelmintics I: Quantitative determination of tetramisole.", "content": "High-pressure liquid chromatography was used with a 10-micron C8-type bonded silica gel column to quantitate the tetramisole in veterinary anthelmintic preparations. The chromatographic elution time was less than 10 min, and other compounds present in the products analyzed did not interefere.", "contents": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic analysis of veterinary anthelmintics I: Quantitative determination of tetramisole. High-pressure liquid chromatography was used with a 10-micron C8-type bonded silica gel column to quantitate the tetramisole in veterinary anthelmintic preparations. The chromatographic elution time was less than 10 min, and other compounds present in the products analyzed did not interefere.", "PMID": 458588} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13358", "title": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic feprazone determination in pharmaceutical formulations.", "content": "A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method was developed for the quantitative determination of feprazone, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, in different pharmaceutical formulations. The results agree with those obtained with GLC and UV spectrophotometric assays.", "contents": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic feprazone determination in pharmaceutical formulations. A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method was developed for the quantitative determination of feprazone, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, in different pharmaceutical formulations. The results agree with those obtained with GLC and UV spectrophotometric assays.", "PMID": 458589} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13359", "title": "GLC-mass spectrometry of Teucrium polium oil.", "content": "The essential oil of Teucrium polium, growing in Saudi Arabia, was thoroughly investigated for its constituents by GLC-mass spectrometry, TLC, and spectrophotometric methods. This investigation revealed the presence of 10 terpenoidal compounds including the hydrocarbons beta-pinene, limonene, alpha-phellandrene, and gamma- and delta-cadinenes and the alcohols linalool, terpine-4-ol, cedrol, cedrenol, and guaiol. The oil was rich in alcohols and devoid of esters. Preliminary pharmacological screening showed that the oil possesses powerful antispasmodic activity.", "contents": "GLC-mass spectrometry of Teucrium polium oil. The essential oil of Teucrium polium, growing in Saudi Arabia, was thoroughly investigated for its constituents by GLC-mass spectrometry, TLC, and spectrophotometric methods. This investigation revealed the presence of 10 terpenoidal compounds including the hydrocarbons beta-pinene, limonene, alpha-phellandrene, and gamma- and delta-cadinenes and the alcohols linalool, terpine-4-ol, cedrol, cedrenol, and guaiol. The oil was rich in alcohols and devoid of esters. Preliminary pharmacological screening showed that the oil possesses powerful antispasmodic activity.", "PMID": 458590} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13360", "title": "Pyridones as potential antitumor agents.", "content": "Based on the finding that 3-acetoxy-2-pyridone had reproducible activity against murine P-388 lymphocytic leukemia, derivatives in this series were synthesized and evaluated to determine structural parameters important for activity. Of the 32 compounds tested, 10 were active. At least two oxygen-containing functional groups are required for P-388 activity, and the 2,3-isomeric arrangement provides the greatest activity. Carbamate or acyloxy groups in the 3-position produced the most active 2-pyridones.", "contents": "Pyridones as potential antitumor agents. Based on the finding that 3-acetoxy-2-pyridone had reproducible activity against murine P-388 lymphocytic leukemia, derivatives in this series were synthesized and evaluated to determine structural parameters important for activity. Of the 32 compounds tested, 10 were active. At least two oxygen-containing functional groups are required for P-388 activity, and the 2,3-isomeric arrangement provides the greatest activity. Carbamate or acyloxy groups in the 3-position produced the most active 2-pyridones.", "PMID": 458596} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13361", "title": "In vitro nitrosation of methapyrilene.", "content": "The reactions of sodium nitrite and methapyrilene were studied in aqueous solution at neutral pH and under simulated gastric fluid conditions. Reaction product formation was much more complex than nitrosation of the parent molecule dimethylamino moiety to form nitrosodimethylamine. Several new nitroso compounds were formed under the reaction conditions studied. The simultaneous incorporation of 2 moles of ascorbic acid/mole of nitrite ion prevented any destruction of methapyrilene under all conditions studied. The implications of these observations with respect to nitrosation theory, the general carcinogenicity of nitroso compounds, and methapyrilene dosage formulation are discussed.", "contents": "In vitro nitrosation of methapyrilene. The reactions of sodium nitrite and methapyrilene were studied in aqueous solution at neutral pH and under simulated gastric fluid conditions. Reaction product formation was much more complex than nitrosation of the parent molecule dimethylamino moiety to form nitrosodimethylamine. Several new nitroso compounds were formed under the reaction conditions studied. The simultaneous incorporation of 2 moles of ascorbic acid/mole of nitrite ion prevented any destruction of methapyrilene under all conditions studied. The implications of these observations with respect to nitrosation theory, the general carcinogenicity of nitroso compounds, and methapyrilene dosage formulation are discussed.", "PMID": 458597} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13362", "title": "Prostaglandin prodrugs. I: Stabilization of dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2) in solid state through formation of crystalline C1-phenyl esters.", "content": "Dinoprostone para-substituted phenyl esters were synthesized in attempt to improve the solid-state stability of the parent prostaglandin. A phenol series covering a wide melting-point range was employed, and a linear relationship was observed between the phenol melting points and the resulting prostaglandin C1-ester melting points. The crystalline esters showed improved solid-state stability over the parent compound, and many esters were biologically active.", "contents": "Prostaglandin prodrugs. I: Stabilization of dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2) in solid state through formation of crystalline C1-phenyl esters. Dinoprostone para-substituted phenyl esters were synthesized in attempt to improve the solid-state stability of the parent prostaglandin. A phenol series covering a wide melting-point range was employed, and a linear relationship was observed between the phenol melting points and the resulting prostaglandin C1-ester melting points. The crystalline esters showed improved solid-state stability over the parent compound, and many esters were biologically active.", "PMID": 458598} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13363", "title": "Prostaglandin prodrugs. II: New method for synthesizing prostaglandin C1-aliphatic esters.", "content": "A new method for synthesizing C1-aliphatic esters of dinoprost and dinoprostone without using hydroxyl protective groups is described. Reaction of the prostaglandin with an alkyl halide in the presence of the sterically hindered amine N,N-diisopropylethylamine proceeds smoothly to give C1-esters in various solvents at ambient or slightly elevated temperatures. Polar solvents were strongly catalytic, and even the hindered tert-butyl esters were synthesized by employing solvents such as dimethylformamide or dimethyl sulfoxide. Biological evaluation in the hamster antifertility assay showed that some esters maintained high bioactivity.", "contents": "Prostaglandin prodrugs. II: New method for synthesizing prostaglandin C1-aliphatic esters. A new method for synthesizing C1-aliphatic esters of dinoprost and dinoprostone without using hydroxyl protective groups is described. Reaction of the prostaglandin with an alkyl halide in the presence of the sterically hindered amine N,N-diisopropylethylamine proceeds smoothly to give C1-esters in various solvents at ambient or slightly elevated temperatures. Polar solvents were strongly catalytic, and even the hindered tert-butyl esters were synthesized by employing solvents such as dimethylformamide or dimethyl sulfoxide. Biological evaluation in the hamster antifertility assay showed that some esters maintained high bioactivity.", "PMID": 458599} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13364", "title": "Molecular topology and aqueous solubility of aliphatic alcohols.", "content": "A physically based method for arriving at topological indexes is described. The derived indexes correlate with molecular surface areas and with the molecular connectivity index. The newly derived index seems to account better for the expected distinctions among primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohol aqueous solubilities. This study suggests that the Del Re method for calculating molecular charges and dipole moments also may be used, without appreciable change, to provide estimates of molecular refraction.", "contents": "Molecular topology and aqueous solubility of aliphatic alcohols. A physically based method for arriving at topological indexes is described. The derived indexes correlate with molecular surface areas and with the molecular connectivity index. The newly derived index seems to account better for the expected distinctions among primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohol aqueous solubilities. This study suggests that the Del Re method for calculating molecular charges and dipole moments also may be used, without appreciable change, to provide estimates of molecular refraction.", "PMID": 458600} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13365", "title": "Quinazolines and 1,4-benzodiazepines. LXXXIX: Haptens useful in benzodiazepine immunoassay development.", "content": "The syntheses of some 1,4-benzodiazepines potentially useful as haptens are reported. These compounds are related to chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, nitrazepam, clonazepam, and some of their metabolites. The chemistry reported here is intended to support specific immunoassay development for these drugs.", "contents": "Quinazolines and 1,4-benzodiazepines. LXXXIX: Haptens useful in benzodiazepine immunoassay development. The syntheses of some 1,4-benzodiazepines potentially useful as haptens are reported. These compounds are related to chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, nitrazepam, clonazepam, and some of their metabolites. The chemistry reported here is intended to support specific immunoassay development for these drugs.", "PMID": 458601} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13366", "title": "Benoxaprofen, a new anti-inflammatory agent: particle-size effect on dissolution rate and oral absorption in humans.", "content": "The particle-size effect of benoxaprofen, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, on the in vitro dissolution rate and oral absorption in humans was evaluated. Ten normal subjects participated in a randomized crossover-designed absorption study with two sieved particle-size formulations: one with crystals larger than 60 mesh (mean equivalent spherical diameter = 640 micron) and the other with crystals smaller than 100 mesh (mean equivalent spherical diameter = 67 micron). Plasma drug concentrations and urinary drug excretion were used to determine the relative absorption of the two formulations. The standard USP procedure was used for the dissolution study. Particle size had a dramatic effect on both the in vitro drug dissolution and its oral absorption in humans. In vitro, the smaller crystals dissolved more rapidly and more efficiently than the larger crystals. In vivo, the smaller crystals produced higher plasma concentrations, more rapid peak concentration attainment, and more drug excreted in the urine.", "contents": "Benoxaprofen, a new anti-inflammatory agent: particle-size effect on dissolution rate and oral absorption in humans. The particle-size effect of benoxaprofen, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, on the in vitro dissolution rate and oral absorption in humans was evaluated. Ten normal subjects participated in a randomized crossover-designed absorption study with two sieved particle-size formulations: one with crystals larger than 60 mesh (mean equivalent spherical diameter = 640 micron) and the other with crystals smaller than 100 mesh (mean equivalent spherical diameter = 67 micron). Plasma drug concentrations and urinary drug excretion were used to determine the relative absorption of the two formulations. The standard USP procedure was used for the dissolution study. Particle size had a dramatic effect on both the in vitro drug dissolution and its oral absorption in humans. In vitro, the smaller crystals dissolved more rapidly and more efficiently than the larger crystals. In vivo, the smaller crystals produced higher plasma concentrations, more rapid peak concentration attainment, and more drug excreted in the urine.", "PMID": 458602} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13367", "title": "Controlled drug dissolution by radiation-induced polymerization in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer or methacrylic acid-methyl acrylate copolymer.", "content": "Polymer-containing tablet preparation was studied using radiation-induced polymerization of glass-forming monomers at low temperatures in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer or methyl acrylate-methacrylic acid copolymer. Drug dissolution from tablets was in the pH 3.0-8.0 range. A copolymer contained in the tablets dissolved in the dissolution medium at a specific pH. Drug dissolution from tablets took place rapidly at pH greater than 6.0 in the presence of methyl acrylate-methacrylic acid copolymer and at pH less than 5.0 in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer. The polymers had fibrous or capillary pore structures in contrast to the spherical pore structures formed in the presence of polyethylene glycol 600.", "contents": "Controlled drug dissolution by radiation-induced polymerization in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer or methacrylic acid-methyl acrylate copolymer. Polymer-containing tablet preparation was studied using radiation-induced polymerization of glass-forming monomers at low temperatures in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer or methyl acrylate-methacrylic acid copolymer. Drug dissolution from tablets was in the pH 3.0-8.0 range. A copolymer contained in the tablets dissolved in the dissolution medium at a specific pH. Drug dissolution from tablets took place rapidly at pH greater than 6.0 in the presence of methyl acrylate-methacrylic acid copolymer and at pH less than 5.0 in the presence of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer. The polymers had fibrous or capillary pore structures in contrast to the spherical pore structures formed in the presence of polyethylene glycol 600.", "PMID": 458603} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13368", "title": "Cefoxitin sodium: solution and solid-state chemical stability studies.", "content": "Studies were undertaken to provide the basic physicochemical information necessary for preparing a suitable parenteral formulation of cefoxitin sodium. Emphasis was placed on the physico-chemical properties of the compound in solution and in the solid state. Cefoxitin sodium is very soluble in water and exhibits apparent first-order decomposition in this medium at pH 3-9. Maximum stability in water is at pH 5-7. Under these pH conditions, cefoxitin sodium loses about 10% of its activity in 2 days at 25 degrees. Thermal decomposition rates for amorphous and crystalline cefoxitin sodium samples were determined. Amorphous cefoxitin sodium was considerably less stable than its corresponding crystalline form. Solid-state decomposition plots are biphasic, displaying initial rapid losses followed by a slower decay period. The extent of loss in the crystalline solid at the end of the more rapid initial phase can be correlated with the water content of the solid.", "contents": "Cefoxitin sodium: solution and solid-state chemical stability studies. Studies were undertaken to provide the basic physicochemical information necessary for preparing a suitable parenteral formulation of cefoxitin sodium. Emphasis was placed on the physico-chemical properties of the compound in solution and in the solid state. Cefoxitin sodium is very soluble in water and exhibits apparent first-order decomposition in this medium at pH 3-9. Maximum stability in water is at pH 5-7. Under these pH conditions, cefoxitin sodium loses about 10% of its activity in 2 days at 25 degrees. Thermal decomposition rates for amorphous and crystalline cefoxitin sodium samples were determined. Amorphous cefoxitin sodium was considerably less stable than its corresponding crystalline form. Solid-state decomposition plots are biphasic, displaying initial rapid losses followed by a slower decay period. The extent of loss in the crystalline solid at the end of the more rapid initial phase can be correlated with the water content of the solid.", "PMID": 458604} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13369", "title": "Synthesis and evaluation of benzylfluorenyl and 1-arylethyl quaternary ammonium salts for antimicrobial and antineoplastic activities.", "content": "A number of substituted benzyldimethyl-9-fluorenylammonium bromides (II) and 9-benzylfluorenyl-9-trimethylammonium bromides (IV) were synthesized and examined for antimicrobial and anticancer activites. Series IV showed greater antimicrobial activity than Series II while some corresponding acyclic fluorene analogs were bereft of antimicrobial activities. Significant antineoplastic activity was not found in Series II and IIV. Representative fluorenes subjected to a preliminary screen for various pharmacological activities revealed marked anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties coupled with some antihistaminic activities. The acyclic quaternary ammonium compounds demonstrated substantial pressor activites.", "contents": "Synthesis and evaluation of benzylfluorenyl and 1-arylethyl quaternary ammonium salts for antimicrobial and antineoplastic activities. A number of substituted benzyldimethyl-9-fluorenylammonium bromides (II) and 9-benzylfluorenyl-9-trimethylammonium bromides (IV) were synthesized and examined for antimicrobial and anticancer activites. Series IV showed greater antimicrobial activity than Series II while some corresponding acyclic fluorene analogs were bereft of antimicrobial activities. Significant antineoplastic activity was not found in Series II and IIV. Representative fluorenes subjected to a preliminary screen for various pharmacological activities revealed marked anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties coupled with some antihistaminic activities. The acyclic quaternary ammonium compounds demonstrated substantial pressor activites.", "PMID": 458605} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13370", "title": "Separation and determination of testosterone and testosterone esters in selected pharmaceutical formulations.", "content": "A rapid quantitative procedure is presented for the separation of testosterone esters from their hydrolysis products through the use of the acetonitrile-infusorial earth column. The method was applied to testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, and testosterone propionate. Recovery and replication of reference standard testosterone and its three esters through the proposed method ranged from 99.1 to 100.3%, and the percent relative standard deviation ranged from 0.6 to 1.0%. Two samples can be separated into testosterone and testosterone ester fractions in about 1.5 hr. The analyses of 20 injectable and one buccal tablet formulations made by 12 different manufacturers are reported.", "contents": "Separation and determination of testosterone and testosterone esters in selected pharmaceutical formulations. A rapid quantitative procedure is presented for the separation of testosterone esters from their hydrolysis products through the use of the acetonitrile-infusorial earth column. The method was applied to testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, and testosterone propionate. Recovery and replication of reference standard testosterone and its three esters through the proposed method ranged from 99.1 to 100.3%, and the percent relative standard deviation ranged from 0.6 to 1.0%. Two samples can be separated into testosterone and testosterone ester fractions in about 1.5 hr. The analyses of 20 injectable and one buccal tablet formulations made by 12 different manufacturers are reported.", "PMID": 458606} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13371", "title": "Application of thermochromism in spectrophotometric analysis: selective determination of berberine in pharmaceuticals by solvent extraction.", "content": "A solvent extraction and spectrophotometric method for selective determination of berberine in pharmaceuticals is proposed. Berberine forms an ion associate with tetrabromophenolphthalein ethyl ester, which is extracted into ethylene dichloride. Secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids are coextracted with the berberine and complicate the berberine determination. The absorbance of the secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids into ethylene dichloride, however, decreases nearly to zero when the temperature is elevated from 25 to 60 degrees. Thus, berberine can be determined successfully in the presence of the secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids by using thermochromaism.", "contents": "Application of thermochromism in spectrophotometric analysis: selective determination of berberine in pharmaceuticals by solvent extraction. A solvent extraction and spectrophotometric method for selective determination of berberine in pharmaceuticals is proposed. Berberine forms an ion associate with tetrabromophenolphthalein ethyl ester, which is extracted into ethylene dichloride. Secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids are coextracted with the berberine and complicate the berberine determination. The absorbance of the secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids into ethylene dichloride, however, decreases nearly to zero when the temperature is elevated from 25 to 60 degrees. Thus, berberine can be determined successfully in the presence of the secondary and tertiary amines and alkaloids by using thermochromaism.", "PMID": 458607} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13372", "title": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of saccharin in artificial sweeteners and pharmaceuticals.", "content": "A high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedure is presented for determining saccharin in various formulations. The method is fast, precise, and accurate and is specific for saccharin in the presence of its most likely impurities and degradation products. Reversed-phase chromatography on a micro-C18 column is utilized with an internal standard, and detection is by UV absorption at 280 nm.", "contents": "High-pressure liquid chromatographic determination of saccharin in artificial sweeteners and pharmaceuticals. A high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedure is presented for determining saccharin in various formulations. The method is fast, precise, and accurate and is specific for saccharin in the presence of its most likely impurities and degradation products. Reversed-phase chromatography on a micro-C18 column is utilized with an internal standard, and detection is by UV absorption at 280 nm.", "PMID": 458608} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13373", "title": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the anthelmintic agent mebendazole in human plasma.", "content": "A rapid and specific high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for quantitative plasma mebendazole determination is described. After a simple extraction, the compound was analyzed by HPLC using a reversed-phase column and a UV detector (313 nm). Quantitation was accomplished using an internal standard; peak area ratios were determined with an integrating computer. The average mebendazole recovery over a concentration range of 0.01-0.20 microgram/ml was 75.9 +/- 3.8% SD, and the maximum assay sensitivity was approximately 10 ng/ml.", "contents": "High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the anthelmintic agent mebendazole in human plasma. A rapid and specific high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for quantitative plasma mebendazole determination is described. After a simple extraction, the compound was analyzed by HPLC using a reversed-phase column and a UV detector (313 nm). Quantitation was accomplished using an internal standard; peak area ratios were determined with an integrating computer. The average mebendazole recovery over a concentration range of 0.01-0.20 microgram/ml was 75.9 +/- 3.8% SD, and the maximum assay sensitivity was approximately 10 ng/ml.", "PMID": 458609} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13374", "title": "Antitumor agents. XXXIV: Mechanism of action of bruceoside A and brusatol on nucleic acid metabolism of P-388 lymphocytic leukemia cells.", "content": "The quassinoids bruceantin, brucein D, brucein E, bruceoside A, and brusatol significantly inhibited P-388 lymphocytic leukemic cell RNA and protein synthesis in tissue culture. However, DNA synthesis inhibition seemed to correlate more directly with the anti-neoplastic activity of these compounds in the in vivo P-338 survival system. In vitro, brusatol and bruceoside A marginally inhibited 10-day P-388 lymphocytic leukemia DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, thymidylate synthetase, dihydrofolate reductase, phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, and cathepsin protease activities. In vivo studies demonstrated similar inhibition and elevated cyclic AMP levels, correlating positively with the antineoplastic activity of individual compounds. Purine synthesis was inhibited drastically by brusatol in vivo, and one key inhibition site in purine synthesis was at phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, the regulatory enzyme. Histone phosphorylation and ribonucleotide reductase activity also were inhibited marginally by brusatol.", "contents": "Antitumor agents. XXXIV: Mechanism of action of bruceoside A and brusatol on nucleic acid metabolism of P-388 lymphocytic leukemia cells. The quassinoids bruceantin, brucein D, brucein E, bruceoside A, and brusatol significantly inhibited P-388 lymphocytic leukemic cell RNA and protein synthesis in tissue culture. However, DNA synthesis inhibition seemed to correlate more directly with the anti-neoplastic activity of these compounds in the in vivo P-338 survival system. In vitro, brusatol and bruceoside A marginally inhibited 10-day P-388 lymphocytic leukemia DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, thymidylate synthetase, dihydrofolate reductase, phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, and cathepsin protease activities. In vivo studies demonstrated similar inhibition and elevated cyclic AMP levels, correlating positively with the antineoplastic activity of individual compounds. Purine synthesis was inhibited drastically by brusatol in vivo, and one key inhibition site in purine synthesis was at phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, the regulatory enzyme. Histone phosphorylation and ribonucleotide reductase activity also were inhibited marginally by brusatol.", "PMID": 458610} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13375", "title": "Synthesis of phenyl-3- and phenyl-5-acetamidosalicylates as potential analgesics.", "content": "Phenylsalicylate was nitrated to obtain two nitro isomers, which were separated and reduced to the corresponding amines followed by acetylation to give phenyl-5- or phenyl-3-acetamidosalicylate. Phenyl-5-acetamidosalicylate displayed analgesic activity comparable to that of aspirin and phenacetin at doses of 25-50 mg/kg sc and was much less toxic than the latter compounds. Phenyl-3-acetamidosalicylate, however, was ineffective at a similar dose range and caused restlessness at larger doses.", "contents": "Synthesis of phenyl-3- and phenyl-5-acetamidosalicylates as potential analgesics. Phenylsalicylate was nitrated to obtain two nitro isomers, which were separated and reduced to the corresponding amines followed by acetylation to give phenyl-5- or phenyl-3-acetamidosalicylate. Phenyl-5-acetamidosalicylate displayed analgesic activity comparable to that of aspirin and phenacetin at doses of 25-50 mg/kg sc and was much less toxic than the latter compounds. Phenyl-3-acetamidosalicylate, however, was ineffective at a similar dose range and caused restlessness at larger doses.", "PMID": 458611} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13376", "title": "Conductivity and hardness changes in aged compacts.", "content": "Batches of sodium, potassium, and ammonium chloride tablets containing no excipients and spray-dried lactose tablets containing 0.5% magnesium stearate were stored at 20 and 76% relative humidity. Electrical resistance and hardness measurements were made within 1 hr after compression and at intervals during a 45-day period. Hardness values of sodium, potassium, and ammonium chloride tablets stored at 20% relative humidity increased from 70 to 200% at 45 days, while conductances decreased 10-fold. Tablets stored at 76% relative humidity showed no increases or slight decreases in hardness with slight increases in conductance. Lactose tablets decreased slightly in hardness with corresponding increases in conductance.", "contents": "Conductivity and hardness changes in aged compacts. Batches of sodium, potassium, and ammonium chloride tablets containing no excipients and spray-dried lactose tablets containing 0.5% magnesium stearate were stored at 20 and 76% relative humidity. Electrical resistance and hardness measurements were made within 1 hr after compression and at intervals during a 45-day period. Hardness values of sodium, potassium, and ammonium chloride tablets stored at 20% relative humidity increased from 70 to 200% at 45 days, while conductances decreased 10-fold. Tablets stored at 76% relative humidity showed no increases or slight decreases in hardness with slight increases in conductance. Lactose tablets decreased slightly in hardness with corresponding increases in conductance.", "PMID": 458612} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13377", "title": "Cytotoxic saponins from the Chinese herbal drug Yunnan Bai Yao.", "content": "Two cytotoxic saponins were isolated from the acetone extracts of the herbal preparation \"Yunnan Bai Yao\" by column chromatography. They were identified as a 3-([alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl()Rha leads to 2Glu)]-[alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1Ara leads to 4Glu)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-25(R)-spirost-5-en-3beta-ol (I) and 3-([alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 4Rha)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 4Glu)]-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 2Glu)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-25(R)-spirost-5-en-3 beta-ol (VI). Both saponins exhibited significant cytotoxicity in the standard P-388, L-1210, and 9KB tissue culture screens.", "contents": "Cytotoxic saponins from the Chinese herbal drug Yunnan Bai Yao. Two cytotoxic saponins were isolated from the acetone extracts of the herbal preparation \"Yunnan Bai Yao\" by column chromatography. They were identified as a 3-([alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl()Rha leads to 2Glu)]-[alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1Ara leads to 4Glu)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-25(R)-spirost-5-en-3beta-ol (I) and 3-([alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 4Rha)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 4Glu)]-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1Rha leads to 2Glu)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-25(R)-spirost-5-en-3 beta-ol (VI). Both saponins exhibited significant cytotoxicity in the standard P-388, L-1210, and 9KB tissue culture screens.", "PMID": 458613} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13378", "title": "Molecular connectivity analysis of hallucinogenic mescaline analogs.", "content": "The hallucinogenic (psychotomimetic) potency of 10 mescaline analogs was examined by molecular connectivity analysis. Potencies could be described by a two-term relating equation, which explained 94% of the variance in activity, on the basis of structural variation, 2,5-Dimethoxy substitution as well as the nature of the 4-position substituent played an important role in determining hallucinogenic potency. With the relating equation, reasonable potency predictions were made for six compounds not included in the initial investigation.", "contents": "Molecular connectivity analysis of hallucinogenic mescaline analogs. The hallucinogenic (psychotomimetic) potency of 10 mescaline analogs was examined by molecular connectivity analysis. Potencies could be described by a two-term relating equation, which explained 94% of the variance in activity, on the basis of structural variation, 2,5-Dimethoxy substitution as well as the nature of the 4-position substituent played an important role in determining hallucinogenic potency. With the relating equation, reasonable potency predictions were made for six compounds not included in the initial investigation.", "PMID": 458614} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13379", "title": "Fluorometric determination of chlorzoxazone in tablets and biological fluids.", "content": "A fluorometric determination for chlorzoxazone was developed based on the intrinsic drug fluorescence in chloroform using excitation and emission wavelengths of 286 and 310 nm, respectively. A calibration curve for chlorzoxazone in chloroform gave a linear working range of 0.027-2.3 microgram/ml (r = 0.9999) with the minimum detectability at 27 ng/ml. The procedure was applied to chlorzoxazone analysis in spiked plasma and urine samples. Minimum detectable drug levels in these samples were 60 and 130 ng/ml, respectively. Data revealed that chlorzoxazone could be determined in plasma and urine even in the presence of 20-fold molar excesses of its major metabolite, 6-hydroxychlorzoxaxone, and acetaminophen. The method also was applicable to chlorzoxazone analysis in a commercial dosage form containing acetaminophen.", "contents": "Fluorometric determination of chlorzoxazone in tablets and biological fluids. A fluorometric determination for chlorzoxazone was developed based on the intrinsic drug fluorescence in chloroform using excitation and emission wavelengths of 286 and 310 nm, respectively. A calibration curve for chlorzoxazone in chloroform gave a linear working range of 0.027-2.3 microgram/ml (r = 0.9999) with the minimum detectability at 27 ng/ml. The procedure was applied to chlorzoxazone analysis in spiked plasma and urine samples. Minimum detectable drug levels in these samples were 60 and 130 ng/ml, respectively. Data revealed that chlorzoxazone could be determined in plasma and urine even in the presence of 20-fold molar excesses of its major metabolite, 6-hydroxychlorzoxaxone, and acetaminophen. The method also was applicable to chlorzoxazone analysis in a commercial dosage form containing acetaminophen.", "PMID": 458615} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13380", "title": "Isolation and identification of 3,3',5,5'-tetrabis(tert-butyl)stilbenequinone from polyethylene closures containing titanium dioxide and butylated hydroxytoluene.", "content": "A yellow compound was isolated from commercially available, discolored, polyethylene ophthalmic closures containing titanium dioxide and butylated hydroxytoluene (I). This compound was present at 7.46 ppm (w/w). It was identified by UV, IR, and mass spectra as 3,3',5,5'-tetrabis(tert-butyl)stilbenequinone (II), a dimer of I. Further structural confirmation was obtained by NMR. Formation of II is catalyzed by titanium dioxide.", "contents": "Isolation and identification of 3,3',5,5'-tetrabis(tert-butyl)stilbenequinone from polyethylene closures containing titanium dioxide and butylated hydroxytoluene. A yellow compound was isolated from commercially available, discolored, polyethylene ophthalmic closures containing titanium dioxide and butylated hydroxytoluene (I). This compound was present at 7.46 ppm (w/w). It was identified by UV, IR, and mass spectra as 3,3',5,5'-tetrabis(tert-butyl)stilbenequinone (II), a dimer of I. Further structural confirmation was obtained by NMR. Formation of II is catalyzed by titanium dioxide.", "PMID": 458616} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13381", "title": "Dihydroquinidine contamination of quinidine raw materials and dosage forms: rapid estimation by high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "Dihydroquinidine is a commonly encountered contaminant in quinidine raw materials. The USP allows 0-20% dihydroquinidine in quinidine products, but the assays used to quantitate dihydroquinidine have been lengthy or have required sophisticated equipment. The present method separates dihydroquinidine from quinidine and provides rapid, precise quantitation of both dihydroquinidine and quinidine. The clinical importance of dihydroquinidine contamination of quinidine dosage forms remains unanswered.", "contents": "Dihydroquinidine contamination of quinidine raw materials and dosage forms: rapid estimation by high-performance liquid chromatography. Dihydroquinidine is a commonly encountered contaminant in quinidine raw materials. The USP allows 0-20% dihydroquinidine in quinidine products, but the assays used to quantitate dihydroquinidine have been lengthy or have required sophisticated equipment. The present method separates dihydroquinidine from quinidine and provides rapid, precise quantitation of both dihydroquinidine and quinidine. The clinical importance of dihydroquinidine contamination of quinidine dosage forms remains unanswered.", "PMID": 458617} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13382", "title": "Stability-indicating sulfa drug analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography.", "content": "Sensitive and efficient methods for sulfonamide determination as single entities and in combination with other drug substances in pharmaceutical dosage formulations were developed using high-performance liquid chromatography. These stability-indicating procedures involved a nitrile bonded phase column and nonaqueous mobile phases having diverse polarities. Sample potency was determined using peak height measurements. The methods may be used to determine trace sulfonamide quantities because detection limits are in the nanogram range.", "contents": "Stability-indicating sulfa drug analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography. Sensitive and efficient methods for sulfonamide determination as single entities and in combination with other drug substances in pharmaceutical dosage formulations were developed using high-performance liquid chromatography. These stability-indicating procedures involved a nitrile bonded phase column and nonaqueous mobile phases having diverse polarities. Sample potency was determined using peak height measurements. The methods may be used to determine trace sulfonamide quantities because detection limits are in the nanogram range.", "PMID": 458618} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13383", "title": "Antibacterial activity of Artemisia herba-alba.", "content": "The antibacterial activity of Artemisia herba-alba was investigated. Only its essential oil was active against some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The essential oil was fractionated by column chromatography, and these fractions were tested for antibacterial activity. The principal component of the most active fraction was santolina alcohol.", "contents": "Antibacterial activity of Artemisia herba-alba. The antibacterial activity of Artemisia herba-alba was investigated. Only its essential oil was active against some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The essential oil was fractionated by column chromatography, and these fractions were tested for antibacterial activity. The principal component of the most active fraction was santolina alcohol.", "PMID": 458619} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13384", "title": "Quantitative dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate determinations in pharmaceutical dosage forms by high-pressure liquid chromatography.", "content": "A high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedure for quantitative dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate determinations in all types of commercially available pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed. The method also separates dexamethasone from its phosphate salt and separates dexamethasone or its salt from a number of inactive ingredients such as benzoic acid, benzyl alcohol, some colors, creatinine, and parabens. Inactive ingredient concentrations may be estimated without additional cost. Part of the parabens present in the commercial injections may be adsorbed by the rubber closures.", "contents": "Quantitative dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate determinations in pharmaceutical dosage forms by high-pressure liquid chromatography. A high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedure for quantitative dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate determinations in all types of commercially available pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed. The method also separates dexamethasone from its phosphate salt and separates dexamethasone or its salt from a number of inactive ingredients such as benzoic acid, benzyl alcohol, some colors, creatinine, and parabens. Inactive ingredient concentrations may be estimated without additional cost. Part of the parabens present in the commercial injections may be adsorbed by the rubber closures.", "PMID": 458620} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13385", "title": "Terpenoid biotransformation in mammals. II: Biotransformation of dl-camphene in rabbits.", "content": "The biotransformation of dl-camphene in rabbits was investigated. Four neutral metabolites, 6-exo-hydroxycamphene, 10-hydroxycamphene, and diastereoisomers of camphene-2,10-glycol, were identified and two alcohols, 7-hydroxycamphene and 3-hydroxytricyclene, were estimated by IR, UV, NMR, and mass spectra and chemical degradations. The formation of these compounds can be explained through a homoallylic oxidation or an epoxide formation.", "contents": "Terpenoid biotransformation in mammals. II: Biotransformation of dl-camphene in rabbits. The biotransformation of dl-camphene in rabbits was investigated. Four neutral metabolites, 6-exo-hydroxycamphene, 10-hydroxycamphene, and diastereoisomers of camphene-2,10-glycol, were identified and two alcohols, 7-hydroxycamphene and 3-hydroxytricyclene, were estimated by IR, UV, NMR, and mass spectra and chemical degradations. The formation of these compounds can be explained through a homoallylic oxidation or an epoxide formation.", "PMID": 458621} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13386", "title": "Effect of phenytoin (DPH) treatment on methoxyflurane metabolism in rats.", "content": "The toxicity and metabolism of the fluorinated anesthetic methoxyflurane were compared in Fischer 344 rats pretreated with phenytoin or phenobarbital. Treatment with either drug potentiated the polyuric effects of methoxyflurane by more than 100%. Also, serum inorganic fluoride (F-) levels and urinary F- excretions after methoxyflurane exposure were comparable in phenytoin- and phenobarbital-treated rats, a 26 to 49% increase as compared to rats treated with methoxyflurane alone. In vitro, 10-fold increases in the rate of hepatic microsomal methoxyflurane defluorination were observed after treatment of rats with either phenytoin or phenobarbital. Kinetic studies with microsomes demonstrated inhibition of methoxyflurane defluorination in the presence of phenytoin. Defluorination of three additional fluorinated ether anesthetics, enflurane, isoflurane and sevoflurane, also was examined in vitro. Phenytoin and phenobarbital treatment resulted in similar enhancement of defluorination of the latter two anesthetics, but not enflurane. Phenytoin and phenobarbital treatment increase defluorination of fluorinated ether anesthetics to approximately the same extent in vitro and in vivo in Fischer 344 rats.", "contents": "Effect of phenytoin (DPH) treatment on methoxyflurane metabolism in rats. The toxicity and metabolism of the fluorinated anesthetic methoxyflurane were compared in Fischer 344 rats pretreated with phenytoin or phenobarbital. Treatment with either drug potentiated the polyuric effects of methoxyflurane by more than 100%. Also, serum inorganic fluoride (F-) levels and urinary F- excretions after methoxyflurane exposure were comparable in phenytoin- and phenobarbital-treated rats, a 26 to 49% increase as compared to rats treated with methoxyflurane alone. In vitro, 10-fold increases in the rate of hepatic microsomal methoxyflurane defluorination were observed after treatment of rats with either phenytoin or phenobarbital. Kinetic studies with microsomes demonstrated inhibition of methoxyflurane defluorination in the presence of phenytoin. Defluorination of three additional fluorinated ether anesthetics, enflurane, isoflurane and sevoflurane, also was examined in vitro. Phenytoin and phenobarbital treatment resulted in similar enhancement of defluorination of the latter two anesthetics, but not enflurane. Phenytoin and phenobarbital treatment increase defluorination of fluorinated ether anesthetics to approximately the same extent in vitro and in vivo in Fischer 344 rats.", "PMID": 458627} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13387", "title": "Electrophysiological effects of mexiletine (K\u00f61173) on ovine cardiac Purkinje fibers.", "content": "To clarify the electrophysiological mechanisms of the antiarrhythmic effects of mexiletine, we examined the actions of mexiletine (0.1--30 mg/l) on action potential characteristics (phase 0 amplitude, overshoot, maximum upstroke velocity, maximum diastolic and activation voltages, duration at 50% and 90% repolarization) of cardiac Purkinje fibers using standard microelectrode techniques. In fibers stimulated at constant rate, mexiletine decreased phase 0 amplitude and Vmax and shortened the action potential. Mexiletine shortened action potential duration at lower concentrations than those which altered phase 0 depolarization. The effect of mexiletine on normal automaticity in cardiac Purkinje fibers was studied in fibers made automatic either by hypokalemia or by isoproterenol. Mexiletine suppressed normal automaticity by shifting activation voltage, so that spontaneous phase 4 depolarization reached a stable resting voltage without triggering regenerative phase 0 depolarization. The effects of mexiletine on abnormal automaticity were studied in Purkinje fibers intoxicated by ouabain. Mexiletine decreased the amplitude of or abolished either early or delayed after depolarizations induced by ouabain.", "contents": "Electrophysiological effects of mexiletine (K\u00f61173) on ovine cardiac Purkinje fibers. To clarify the electrophysiological mechanisms of the antiarrhythmic effects of mexiletine, we examined the actions of mexiletine (0.1--30 mg/l) on action potential characteristics (phase 0 amplitude, overshoot, maximum upstroke velocity, maximum diastolic and activation voltages, duration at 50% and 90% repolarization) of cardiac Purkinje fibers using standard microelectrode techniques. In fibers stimulated at constant rate, mexiletine decreased phase 0 amplitude and Vmax and shortened the action potential. Mexiletine shortened action potential duration at lower concentrations than those which altered phase 0 depolarization. The effect of mexiletine on normal automaticity in cardiac Purkinje fibers was studied in fibers made automatic either by hypokalemia or by isoproterenol. Mexiletine suppressed normal automaticity by shifting activation voltage, so that spontaneous phase 4 depolarization reached a stable resting voltage without triggering regenerative phase 0 depolarization. The effects of mexiletine on abnormal automaticity were studied in Purkinje fibers intoxicated by ouabain. Mexiletine decreased the amplitude of or abolished either early or delayed after depolarizations induced by ouabain.", "PMID": 458628} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13388", "title": "Cellular pharmacology of 7(R)-O-methylnogarol: a new anticancer agent.", "content": "The cellular accumulation and disposition of 7(R)-O-methylnogarol (7-OMEN), a derivative of the anthracycline antibiotic, nogalamycin, were compared to those of daunorubicin. Although both drugs were avidly accumulated by cells, intracellular concentrations of 7-OMEN were 5 to 10 times those of daunorubicin. Lowered temperature (0 degrees C) reduced intracellular accumulation of both drugs, but 10 mM sodium azide reduced the accumulation of 7-OMEN only. Both drugs exited from cells placed in drug-free medium, a process that was reduced at 0 degrees C. Sodium azide, 10 mM, did not alter the efflux of daunorubicin from cells but hastened the efflux of 7-OMEN. Unlike whole cells, isolated nuclei accumulated more daunorubicin than 7-OMEN. This process was not reduced at 0 degrees C. Both drugs were lost from nuclei placed in drug free buffer with only slight reduction at 0 degrees C. Unlike daunorubicin which localized in cell nuclei, 7-OMEN localized in the cytoplasm with no detectable nuclear fluorescence. Both drugs produced nearly equivalent dose-dependent inhibition of [3H]thymidine incorporation by L1210 and P388 cells. P388/ADR cells proved resistant to both anthracyclines. [3H]uridine and [3H]valine incorporations were inhibited by daunorubicin but were not altered by 7-OMEN.", "contents": "Cellular pharmacology of 7(R)-O-methylnogarol: a new anticancer agent. The cellular accumulation and disposition of 7(R)-O-methylnogarol (7-OMEN), a derivative of the anthracycline antibiotic, nogalamycin, were compared to those of daunorubicin. Although both drugs were avidly accumulated by cells, intracellular concentrations of 7-OMEN were 5 to 10 times those of daunorubicin. Lowered temperature (0 degrees C) reduced intracellular accumulation of both drugs, but 10 mM sodium azide reduced the accumulation of 7-OMEN only. Both drugs exited from cells placed in drug-free medium, a process that was reduced at 0 degrees C. Sodium azide, 10 mM, did not alter the efflux of daunorubicin from cells but hastened the efflux of 7-OMEN. Unlike whole cells, isolated nuclei accumulated more daunorubicin than 7-OMEN. This process was not reduced at 0 degrees C. Both drugs were lost from nuclei placed in drug free buffer with only slight reduction at 0 degrees C. Unlike daunorubicin which localized in cell nuclei, 7-OMEN localized in the cytoplasm with no detectable nuclear fluorescence. Both drugs produced nearly equivalent dose-dependent inhibition of [3H]thymidine incorporation by L1210 and P388 cells. P388/ADR cells proved resistant to both anthracyclines. [3H]uridine and [3H]valine incorporations were inhibited by daunorubicin but were not altered by 7-OMEN.", "PMID": 458629} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13389", "title": "Pharmacokinetics of heparin. II. Studies of time dependence in rats.", "content": "The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the time course of heparin activity (bioassayed heparin concentration) in plasma of rats during and after constant rate i.v. infusion of heparin can be predicted from the pharmacokinetic characteristics of a single i.v. bolus dose of heparin administered to the same animals. Five rats received a rapid i.v. injection of heparin, 320 to 517 U/kg, and on the following day, an i.v. infusion of heparin, 2.7 to 4.0 U/min/kg, for 10 to 11 hr. Heparin activity in plasma at the end of the infusion was about twice as high as predicted on the basis of the total clearance of the bolus dose. Even though the maximum heparin activity immediately after the bolus dose and at the end of the infusion were similar, the biologic half-life of heparin at the end of the infusion was about twice as long as that of the bolus dose. Apparently, the pharmacokinetics of heparin are time dependent. This may explain, at least in part, the clinical observation that heparin infusion rate must often be reduced after the initial days of therapy.", "contents": "Pharmacokinetics of heparin. II. Studies of time dependence in rats. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the time course of heparin activity (bioassayed heparin concentration) in plasma of rats during and after constant rate i.v. infusion of heparin can be predicted from the pharmacokinetic characteristics of a single i.v. bolus dose of heparin administered to the same animals. Five rats received a rapid i.v. injection of heparin, 320 to 517 U/kg, and on the following day, an i.v. infusion of heparin, 2.7 to 4.0 U/min/kg, for 10 to 11 hr. Heparin activity in plasma at the end of the infusion was about twice as high as predicted on the basis of the total clearance of the bolus dose. Even though the maximum heparin activity immediately after the bolus dose and at the end of the infusion were similar, the biologic half-life of heparin at the end of the infusion was about twice as long as that of the bolus dose. Apparently, the pharmacokinetics of heparin are time dependent. This may explain, at least in part, the clinical observation that heparin infusion rate must often be reduced after the initial days of therapy.", "PMID": 458631} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13390", "title": "Evidence for luminal uptake of gentamicin in the perfused rat kidney.", "content": "Gentamicin nephrotoxicity is preceded by proximal tubular accumulation of the drug. To determine whether gentamicin enters cells from the peritubular surface or from the tubular lumen after filtration, we studied filtering and non-filtering isolated perfused rat kidneys. Filtering kidneys were perfused with 6 g/dl of albumin, non-filtering kidneys with 11 g/dl of albumin and a lower perfusion pressure after ureteral occlusion. Accumulation of [14C]gentamicin in filtering or non-filtering kidneys was compared to that of [14C]cephaloridine, which is taken up primarily at the antiluminal cell surface. Renal accumulation of gentamicin was approximately 4 times greater in filtering than in non-filtering kidneys after 1 hr of perfusion. In contrast, accumulation of [14C]cephaloridine was 38% greater in the non-filtering model. Gentamicin did not significantly change sodium reabsorption or glomerular filtration rate during the 60-min study. Fractional potassium excretion, however, was slightly but significantly increased by perfusion with gentamicin. Our results indicate that 1) renal tubular gentamicin uptake is primarily by filtration and subsequent reabsorption and 2) the non-filtering and filtering isolated perfused rat kidney may be used to investigate mechanisms of renal accumulation of other nephrotoxic agents.", "contents": "Evidence for luminal uptake of gentamicin in the perfused rat kidney. Gentamicin nephrotoxicity is preceded by proximal tubular accumulation of the drug. To determine whether gentamicin enters cells from the peritubular surface or from the tubular lumen after filtration, we studied filtering and non-filtering isolated perfused rat kidneys. Filtering kidneys were perfused with 6 g/dl of albumin, non-filtering kidneys with 11 g/dl of albumin and a lower perfusion pressure after ureteral occlusion. Accumulation of [14C]gentamicin in filtering or non-filtering kidneys was compared to that of [14C]cephaloridine, which is taken up primarily at the antiluminal cell surface. Renal accumulation of gentamicin was approximately 4 times greater in filtering than in non-filtering kidneys after 1 hr of perfusion. In contrast, accumulation of [14C]cephaloridine was 38% greater in the non-filtering model. Gentamicin did not significantly change sodium reabsorption or glomerular filtration rate during the 60-min study. Fractional potassium excretion, however, was slightly but significantly increased by perfusion with gentamicin. Our results indicate that 1) renal tubular gentamicin uptake is primarily by filtration and subsequent reabsorption and 2) the non-filtering and filtering isolated perfused rat kidney may be used to investigate mechanisms of renal accumulation of other nephrotoxic agents.", "PMID": 458632} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13391", "title": "The effects of phenytoin and lidocaine on a proprioceptor of the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis: a simple method for discriminating between inhibitors of sensory transduction and axonal conduction.", "content": "Three linearly aligned tibial tactile spines of the cockroach Blaberus discoidalis were stimulated by a mechanically driven glass probe. A \"window\" was cut at the base of the central spine and various concentrations of phenytoin, lidocaine and colchicine were applied. Colchicine, phenytoin and a low concentration of lidocaine selectively inhibited stimulus-evoked discharges from the central spine, while lidocaine in higher concentrations inhibited discharges from the central and distal spines. We conclude that phenytoin and colchicine suppress afferent discharges by their ability to interfere with sensory transduction, while lidocaine suppresses afferent responses by interfering with axonal conduction as well as sensory transduction.", "contents": "The effects of phenytoin and lidocaine on a proprioceptor of the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis: a simple method for discriminating between inhibitors of sensory transduction and axonal conduction. Three linearly aligned tibial tactile spines of the cockroach Blaberus discoidalis were stimulated by a mechanically driven glass probe. A \"window\" was cut at the base of the central spine and various concentrations of phenytoin, lidocaine and colchicine were applied. Colchicine, phenytoin and a low concentration of lidocaine selectively inhibited stimulus-evoked discharges from the central spine, while lidocaine in higher concentrations inhibited discharges from the central and distal spines. We conclude that phenytoin and colchicine suppress afferent discharges by their ability to interfere with sensory transduction, while lidocaine suppresses afferent responses by interfering with axonal conduction as well as sensory transduction.", "PMID": 458635} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13392", "title": "Isoproterenol excretion and metabolism in the isolated perfused rat kidney.", "content": "[3H]isoproterenol excretion and metabolism were studied in the isolated perfused rat kidney using a one-pass, non-recirculating perfusion system with constant infusion rates of [3H]isoproterenol. The [3H]isoproterenol (U/P) to inulin (U/P) ratio was approximately 15 indicating extensive tubular secretion. A major renal metabolite, 3-O-methylisoproterenol, appeared in the urine and renal vein perfusate and also accumulated in the renal tissue. The fractional excretion of isoproterenol decreased with time while fractional excretion of p-aminohippurate remained stable. The observed decreasing urinary clearance and percent extraction of isoproterenol with time may be due to the progressive intrarenal accumulation of 3-O-methylisoproterenol.", "contents": "Isoproterenol excretion and metabolism in the isolated perfused rat kidney. [3H]isoproterenol excretion and metabolism were studied in the isolated perfused rat kidney using a one-pass, non-recirculating perfusion system with constant infusion rates of [3H]isoproterenol. The [3H]isoproterenol (U/P) to inulin (U/P) ratio was approximately 15 indicating extensive tubular secretion. A major renal metabolite, 3-O-methylisoproterenol, appeared in the urine and renal vein perfusate and also accumulated in the renal tissue. The fractional excretion of isoproterenol decreased with time while fractional excretion of p-aminohippurate remained stable. The observed decreasing urinary clearance and percent extraction of isoproterenol with time may be due to the progressive intrarenal accumulation of 3-O-methylisoproterenol.", "PMID": 458636} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13393", "title": "Ionic currents in response to membrane depolarization in an Aplysia neurone.", "content": "1. Action potentials recorded in the soma of R15 neurones in the abdominal ganglia of Aplysia juliana were not suppressed by selective inhibition of either Na or Ca conductance alone. It was necessary to block both conductances to suppress action potentials. 2. Membrane currents generated by step depolarizations of the soma consisted of early transient and delayed steady-state currents. The early transient current could have one or two components depending on the activating depolarization. 3. The early more rapid component had a reversal potential at +54 mV and the reversal potential changed with extracellular Na concentration in accord with the Nernst equation. It was blocked by substitution of impermeant cations for Na, by TTX and by internal injections of Zn. It was concluded that this component was normally a Na current. 4. The later slower component of the transient current had a reversal potential at about +65 mV and the reversal potential changed with extracellular Ca concentration is accord with the Nernst equation. It was blocked by substitution of Mg for Ca or addition of Mn, Co, Ni or verapamil to the extracellular solution. It was concluded that this component was normally a Ca current. 5. Na and Ca currents were generated at different threshold potentials, Na currents first appearing at about -20 mV and Ca currents at -5 to 0 mV. 6. The time-to-peak of both Na and Ca currents was affected by the holding potential, by the amplitude of the activating depolarization, by temperature and by divalent ion concentration. 7. The peak Na and Ca conductances both increased sigmoidally with increasing depolarization, the maximum Na conductance of 10--15 microS being approximately twice the maximum Ca conductance. Peak conductances for Na and Ca reached half-maximum at -8 and +3 mV, respectively. 8. The amplitude of the delayed steady-state current could be varied by changing the extracellular K+ ion concentration or by adding tetraethylammonium to the extracellular solution. The reversal potential for 'tail currents' was -67 mV and shifted 18 mV when the extracellular K concentration was doubled. It was concluded that the delayed steady-state current was K current. 9. With prolonged depolarizations, K current decayed with a time constant of the order of 1 sec. Peak K conductance increased with increasing depolarization with the half-maximum occurring at a potential more positive than +20 mV. The maximum rate of fractional activation of K conductance was independent of the amplitude of the clamp step.", "contents": "Ionic currents in response to membrane depolarization in an Aplysia neurone. 1. Action potentials recorded in the soma of R15 neurones in the abdominal ganglia of Aplysia juliana were not suppressed by selective inhibition of either Na or Ca conductance alone. It was necessary to block both conductances to suppress action potentials. 2. Membrane currents generated by step depolarizations of the soma consisted of early transient and delayed steady-state currents. The early transient current could have one or two components depending on the activating depolarization. 3. The early more rapid component had a reversal potential at +54 mV and the reversal potential changed with extracellular Na concentration in accord with the Nernst equation. It was blocked by substitution of impermeant cations for Na, by TTX and by internal injections of Zn. It was concluded that this component was normally a Na current. 4. The later slower component of the transient current had a reversal potential at about +65 mV and the reversal potential changed with extracellular Ca concentration is accord with the Nernst equation. It was blocked by substitution of Mg for Ca or addition of Mn, Co, Ni or verapamil to the extracellular solution. It was concluded that this component was normally a Ca current. 5. Na and Ca currents were generated at different threshold potentials, Na currents first appearing at about -20 mV and Ca currents at -5 to 0 mV. 6. The time-to-peak of both Na and Ca currents was affected by the holding potential, by the amplitude of the activating depolarization, by temperature and by divalent ion concentration. 7. The peak Na and Ca conductances both increased sigmoidally with increasing depolarization, the maximum Na conductance of 10--15 microS being approximately twice the maximum Ca conductance. Peak conductances for Na and Ca reached half-maximum at -8 and +3 mV, respectively. 8. The amplitude of the delayed steady-state current could be varied by changing the extracellular K+ ion concentration or by adding tetraethylammonium to the extracellular solution. The reversal potential for 'tail currents' was -67 mV and shifted 18 mV when the extracellular K concentration was doubled. It was concluded that the delayed steady-state current was K current. 9. With prolonged depolarizations, K current decayed with a time constant of the order of 1 sec. Peak K conductance increased with increasing depolarization with the half-maximum occurring at a potential more positive than +20 mV. The maximum rate of fractional activation of K conductance was independent of the amplitude of the clamp step.", "PMID": 458642} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13394", "title": "Characteristics of sodium and calcium conductance changes produced by membrane depolarization in an Aplysia neurone.", "content": "1. The time course and voltage dependence of Na and Ca conductance changes produced by depolarization of the soma of the neurone R15 in the abdominal ganglion of Aplysia juliana were examined at temperatures of 10--14 degrees C. 2. During a maintained depolarization, Na currents turned on then decayed (inactivated). Inactivation was exponential with time constant tauh. Activation (after correction for inactivation) was reasonably well described by the expression G'Na(t) = G'Na (infinity) (1 - exp [-t/taum])3 over a wide range of potentials. 3. taum and tauh were both voltage dependent. In the range -20 to +40 mV, taum varied from 5 to 0.5 msec and tauh from 25 to 8 msec (13.5 degrees C). Steady-state Na conductance (corrected for inactivation) was voltage dependent also, increasing sigmoidally with depolarization to a maximum of 25--30 muS at +10 to +20 mV. Half-maximal Na conductance occurred at a membrane potential of -8 mV and from -15 to -5 mV, a 5 mV change in membrane potential produced an e-fold change in steady-state Na conductance. 4. Steady-state inactivation of Na conductance (hNa(infinity)) was voltage dependent with half-inactivation occurring at a membrane potential of -32 mV. Recovery from Na inactivation followed an exponential time course with a voltage-dependent time constant. 5. During a maintained depolarization Ca currents activated then decayed (inactivated) more slowly than Na currents. The decay was exponential with time constant tauH. The decay of Ca current was not an artifact porduced by an outward current. The amplitude of calcium tail currents, produced by voltage steps back to epsilonK at different times during the decay of ICa, decayed also with a time constant close to tauH. 6. Ca conductance (after correction for inactivation) could be described approximately by the expression G'Ca(t) = G'Ca(infinity) (1 - exp [-t/tauM])p but it was necessary to vary p from 1 to 2 at different potentials. No value of p gave as good a fit to this model as that obtained for Na currents. 7. taum and tauH were voltage dependent. In the range of potentials from 0 to +60 mV, tauM varied from 9 to 5 msec and tauH from 300 to 50 msec (13.5 degrees C). Steady-state Ca conductance (corrected for inactivation) was voltage dependent also, increasing sigmoidally with depolarization to a maximum of 10--15 muS at +30 to +40 mV. Half-maximal Ca conductance occurred at a membrane potential of +12 mV, and from +10 to +20 mV a 6 mV change in membrane potential produced an e-fold change in Ca conductance. 8. Steady-state inactivation of Ca conductance (hCa(infinity)) varied with holding potential (VH). Half-inactivation occurred with depolarization to -20 mV. At potentials more negative than -40 mV, hCa(infinity) was less than at -40 mV, i.e. hyperpolarization produced Ca 'inactivation'. 9...", "contents": "Characteristics of sodium and calcium conductance changes produced by membrane depolarization in an Aplysia neurone. 1. The time course and voltage dependence of Na and Ca conductance changes produced by depolarization of the soma of the neurone R15 in the abdominal ganglion of Aplysia juliana were examined at temperatures of 10--14 degrees C. 2. During a maintained depolarization, Na currents turned on then decayed (inactivated). Inactivation was exponential with time constant tauh. Activation (after correction for inactivation) was reasonably well described by the expression G'Na(t) = G'Na (infinity) (1 - exp [-t/taum])3 over a wide range of potentials. 3. taum and tauh were both voltage dependent. In the range -20 to +40 mV, taum varied from 5 to 0.5 msec and tauh from 25 to 8 msec (13.5 degrees C). Steady-state Na conductance (corrected for inactivation) was voltage dependent also, increasing sigmoidally with depolarization to a maximum of 25--30 muS at +10 to +20 mV. Half-maximal Na conductance occurred at a membrane potential of -8 mV and from -15 to -5 mV, a 5 mV change in membrane potential produced an e-fold change in steady-state Na conductance. 4. Steady-state inactivation of Na conductance (hNa(infinity)) was voltage dependent with half-inactivation occurring at a membrane potential of -32 mV. Recovery from Na inactivation followed an exponential time course with a voltage-dependent time constant. 5. During a maintained depolarization Ca currents activated then decayed (inactivated) more slowly than Na currents. The decay was exponential with time constant tauH. The decay of Ca current was not an artifact porduced by an outward current. The amplitude of calcium tail currents, produced by voltage steps back to epsilonK at different times during the decay of ICa, decayed also with a time constant close to tauH. 6. Ca conductance (after correction for inactivation) could be described approximately by the expression G'Ca(t) = G'Ca(infinity) (1 - exp [-t/tauM])p but it was necessary to vary p from 1 to 2 at different potentials. No value of p gave as good a fit to this model as that obtained for Na currents. 7. taum and tauH were voltage dependent. In the range of potentials from 0 to +60 mV, tauM varied from 9 to 5 msec and tauH from 300 to 50 msec (13.5 degrees C). Steady-state Ca conductance (corrected for inactivation) was voltage dependent also, increasing sigmoidally with depolarization to a maximum of 10--15 muS at +30 to +40 mV. Half-maximal Ca conductance occurred at a membrane potential of +12 mV, and from +10 to +20 mV a 6 mV change in membrane potential produced an e-fold change in Ca conductance. 8. Steady-state inactivation of Ca conductance (hCa(infinity)) varied with holding potential (VH). Half-inactivation occurred with depolarization to -20 mV. At potentials more negative than -40 mV, hCa(infinity) was less than at -40 mV, i.e. hyperpolarization produced Ca 'inactivation'. 9...", "PMID": 458645} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13395", "title": "Open loop increase in trunk temperature produced by face cooling in working humans.", "content": "1. Five human subjects pedalled on a bicyle ergometer for at least two 74 min periods at 10 degrees C ambient temperature. During the first period the subjects cycled for 42 min with face fanning, followed by 32 min with the head thermally insulated. In the second period, this procedure was reversed. Oesophageal (tes), tympanic (Tty), forehead and hand skin temperatures were recorded. In addition, heart rate (H.R.) was counted throughout the experiments, and the technique of perceptual rating of cool and warm stimuli was used in order to appreciate whether the subjects were hypo-, normo-, or hyperthermic. 2. Face fanning resulted in decreased Tty, decreased H.R., mild skin vasoconstriction but increased Tes. 3. Head covering resulted in increased Tty and H.R., while Tes decreased slightly, due to peripheral vasodilatation. 4. When their faces were being fanned so that Tty was low and Tes was high, the subjects gave slightly hypothermic ratings. Ratings were clearly hyperthermic when their heads were covered and Tty was high and Tes was low. 5. The close correlation between vasomotor response and H.R. on the one hand and Tty on the other confirms that this variable is a better approximation of regulated core temperature than Tes. 6. Increase in Tes during face fanning and decrease in Tes during face insulation is new evidence for the possibility of the human brian being cooled during exercise by cool blood returning from the face. 7. We suggest that this selective brain cooling determines the apparent upper resetting of core temperature during exercise while brain temperature remains precisely regulated and constant.", "contents": "Open loop increase in trunk temperature produced by face cooling in working humans. 1. Five human subjects pedalled on a bicyle ergometer for at least two 74 min periods at 10 degrees C ambient temperature. During the first period the subjects cycled for 42 min with face fanning, followed by 32 min with the head thermally insulated. In the second period, this procedure was reversed. Oesophageal (tes), tympanic (Tty), forehead and hand skin temperatures were recorded. In addition, heart rate (H.R.) was counted throughout the experiments, and the technique of perceptual rating of cool and warm stimuli was used in order to appreciate whether the subjects were hypo-, normo-, or hyperthermic. 2. Face fanning resulted in decreased Tty, decreased H.R., mild skin vasoconstriction but increased Tes. 3. Head covering resulted in increased Tty and H.R., while Tes decreased slightly, due to peripheral vasodilatation. 4. When their faces were being fanned so that Tty was low and Tes was high, the subjects gave slightly hypothermic ratings. Ratings were clearly hyperthermic when their heads were covered and Tty was high and Tes was low. 5. The close correlation between vasomotor response and H.R. on the one hand and Tty on the other confirms that this variable is a better approximation of regulated core temperature than Tes. 6. Increase in Tes during face fanning and decrease in Tes during face insulation is new evidence for the possibility of the human brian being cooled during exercise by cool blood returning from the face. 7. We suggest that this selective brain cooling determines the apparent upper resetting of core temperature during exercise while brain temperature remains precisely regulated and constant.", "PMID": 458648} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13396", "title": "Contraction time and voluntary discharge properties of individual short toe extensor motor units in man.", "content": "1. The contraction time and the voluntary discharge properties of forty-five short toe extensor motor units were studied in man. 2. The contraction time of the individual motor unit was studied by using selective electrical nerve stimulation or by averaging the increase in force related to its electromyographic potential in tonic voluntary contraction. 3. Both methods showed a range of contraction times from 40 to 90 ms. 4. The discharge properties of the individual motor unit were studied with e.m.g. techniques, permitting the identification of its potentials during maximum voluntary effort. 5. A motor unit which could be driven continously and had a minimum rate of about 10/s and a maximum rate of about 30/s had a contraction time between 60 and 90 ms. 6. A motor unit which could not be driven continously and had a minimum rate of about 20/s and a maximum rate above 40/s had a contraction time between 40 and 55 ms. 7. A motor unit with intermediate voluntary discharge properties had an intermediate contraction time. 8. It is concluded that each motor unit fires at its fusion frequency in voluntary contraction and that the voluntary discharge frequency range of a motor unit can be used as an indication of its contraction time.", "contents": "Contraction time and voluntary discharge properties of individual short toe extensor motor units in man. 1. The contraction time and the voluntary discharge properties of forty-five short toe extensor motor units were studied in man. 2. The contraction time of the individual motor unit was studied by using selective electrical nerve stimulation or by averaging the increase in force related to its electromyographic potential in tonic voluntary contraction. 3. Both methods showed a range of contraction times from 40 to 90 ms. 4. The discharge properties of the individual motor unit were studied with e.m.g. techniques, permitting the identification of its potentials during maximum voluntary effort. 5. A motor unit which could be driven continously and had a minimum rate of about 10/s and a maximum rate of about 30/s had a contraction time between 60 and 90 ms. 6. A motor unit which could not be driven continously and had a minimum rate of about 20/s and a maximum rate above 40/s had a contraction time between 40 and 55 ms. 7. A motor unit with intermediate voluntary discharge properties had an intermediate contraction time. 8. It is concluded that each motor unit fires at its fusion frequency in voluntary contraction and that the voluntary discharge frequency range of a motor unit can be used as an indication of its contraction time.", "PMID": 458649} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13397", "title": "Scaling factor relating conduction velocity and diameter for myelinated afferent nerve fibres in the cat hind limb.", "content": "1. Compound action potentials were recorded from certain muscle and cutaneous nerves in normal and chronically de-efferentated hind limbs of cats during stimulation of the appropriate dorsal spinal roots, 2. The peaks for groups I, II and III in the compound action potential were correlated with the corresponding peaks in the fibre-diameter histograms of the same de-efferentated nerve after processing it for light microscopy. 3. The scaling factor (ratio of conduction velocity in m/sec to total diameter in micrometer) was not constant for all sizes of fibre nor did it increase progressively with fibre size. Evidence is presented that a logarithmic relation between conduction velocity and fibre diameter is not appropriate. 4. In muscle nerves the scaling factor for fibres fixed by glutaraldehyde perfusion and embedded in Epon was 5.7 for group I afferent fibres and 4.6 for myelinated fibres in both group II and group III. 5. In cutaneous nerves the scaling factor was 5.6 for large fibres (group I or Abeta) and 4.6 for small fibres (group III or Adelta). 6. The scaling factor for group I fibres is the same as was found previously for alpha-efferent fibres, and that for groups II and III is the same as for gamma-efferent fibres (Boyd & Davey, 1968). 7. The possibility that there is a clear discontinuity in scaling factor between fibres in groups I and alpha, and those in other functional groups, is discussed. 8. It is concluded that there must be some structural feature of alpha and group I fibres which differs from that of smaller myelinated fibres. It is likely that a difference in the relative thickness of the myelin sheath is involved and possibly also in the conductances responsible for generating the action potential.", "contents": "Scaling factor relating conduction velocity and diameter for myelinated afferent nerve fibres in the cat hind limb. 1. Compound action potentials were recorded from certain muscle and cutaneous nerves in normal and chronically de-efferentated hind limbs of cats during stimulation of the appropriate dorsal spinal roots, 2. The peaks for groups I, II and III in the compound action potential were correlated with the corresponding peaks in the fibre-diameter histograms of the same de-efferentated nerve after processing it for light microscopy. 3. The scaling factor (ratio of conduction velocity in m/sec to total diameter in micrometer) was not constant for all sizes of fibre nor did it increase progressively with fibre size. Evidence is presented that a logarithmic relation between conduction velocity and fibre diameter is not appropriate. 4. In muscle nerves the scaling factor for fibres fixed by glutaraldehyde perfusion and embedded in Epon was 5.7 for group I afferent fibres and 4.6 for myelinated fibres in both group II and group III. 5. In cutaneous nerves the scaling factor was 5.6 for large fibres (group I or Abeta) and 4.6 for small fibres (group III or Adelta). 6. The scaling factor for group I fibres is the same as was found previously for alpha-efferent fibres, and that for groups II and III is the same as for gamma-efferent fibres (Boyd & Davey, 1968). 7. The possibility that there is a clear discontinuity in scaling factor between fibres in groups I and alpha, and those in other functional groups, is discussed. 8. It is concluded that there must be some structural feature of alpha and group I fibres which differs from that of smaller myelinated fibres. It is likely that a difference in the relative thickness of the myelin sheath is involved and possibly also in the conductances responsible for generating the action potential.", "PMID": 458657} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13398", "title": "The mechanism of peripherally evoked responses in retinal ganglion cells.", "content": "1. Responses to stimulation of retinal regions remote from the classical receptive field were recorded from optic tract fibres in lightly anaesthetized cats. 2. X- and Y-cells gave reliably different responses to the sudden reversal of the phase of a high contrast grating that fell on the retina more than 15 deg from the centre of the receptive field. 3. The mechanism that generates these responses ('shift effect' or 'periphery effect') in Y-cells is insensitive to the spatial phase of the stimulating grating. It can resolve gratings of higher spatial frequency than can be resolved by the classical receptive field mechanisms of Y-cells but its temporal resolution is poorer. 4. Signals that contribute to peripherally evoked responses are accumulated over a region that extends to at least 35 deg from the centre of the receptive field. Although this region is not uniformly sensitive, regions in the periphery of the visual field are as effective as regions around the area centralis in eliciting the responses, and do not require coarser gratings. 5. In some Y-cells the response to peripheral stimulation was amplified by increasing (on-centre units) or decreasing (off-centre units) the steady illumination of the centre of the receptive field. This confirms Kr\u00fcger & Fisher (1973), but the effect is only found in a proportion of cells. 6. The mechanism that generates peripherally evoked responses is tentatively identified with the 'rectifying subunits' postulated by Hochstein & Shapley (1976b) to account for the spatial non-linearity in the receptive fields of Y-cells. Transient (bistratified) amacrine cells are known to have many of the properties attributed to these mechanisms (Chan & Naka, 1976).", "contents": "The mechanism of peripherally evoked responses in retinal ganglion cells. 1. Responses to stimulation of retinal regions remote from the classical receptive field were recorded from optic tract fibres in lightly anaesthetized cats. 2. X- and Y-cells gave reliably different responses to the sudden reversal of the phase of a high contrast grating that fell on the retina more than 15 deg from the centre of the receptive field. 3. The mechanism that generates these responses ('shift effect' or 'periphery effect') in Y-cells is insensitive to the spatial phase of the stimulating grating. It can resolve gratings of higher spatial frequency than can be resolved by the classical receptive field mechanisms of Y-cells but its temporal resolution is poorer. 4. Signals that contribute to peripherally evoked responses are accumulated over a region that extends to at least 35 deg from the centre of the receptive field. Although this region is not uniformly sensitive, regions in the periphery of the visual field are as effective as regions around the area centralis in eliciting the responses, and do not require coarser gratings. 5. In some Y-cells the response to peripheral stimulation was amplified by increasing (on-centre units) or decreasing (off-centre units) the steady illumination of the centre of the receptive field. This confirms Kr\u00fcger & Fisher (1973), but the effect is only found in a proportion of cells. 6. The mechanism that generates peripherally evoked responses is tentatively identified with the 'rectifying subunits' postulated by Hochstein & Shapley (1976b) to account for the spatial non-linearity in the receptive fields of Y-cells. Transient (bistratified) amacrine cells are known to have many of the properties attributed to these mechanisms (Chan & Naka, 1976).", "PMID": 458660} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13399", "title": "Reflex connexions of motoneurones of muscles involved in head movement in the cat.", "content": "1. The reflex connexions from muscle afferents and ventral root fibres to the motoneurones of the muscles biventer-cervicis, complexus, sternocleidomastoid, trapezius and splenius, the principal muscles involved in head movement in the cat, were studied with the technique of intracellular recording. 2. Electrical stimulation of homonymous muscle afferents of biventer-cervicis and complexus, sternocleidomastoid and trapezius, at strengths below 1.6 times threshold of the dorsal root afferent volley, produced monosynaptic e.p.s.p.s in the corresponding motoneurones. Recruitment of higher threshold muscle afferents produced additional p.s.p.s with longer central delays. 3. Stimulation of low-threshold muscle afferents did not produce any p.s.p.s in the motoneurones of the ipsilateral antagonist. Stimulation of higher threshold afferents evoked i.p.s.p.s with central delays longer than 1.6 msec, or mixed e.p.s.p.-i.p.s.p.s in the ipsilateral antagonist. 4. Mixed e.p.s.p.-i.p.s.p.s or i.p.s.p.s with central delays longer than 1.5 msec were evoked in trapezius motoneurones upon stimulation of high threshold afferents from biventer-cervicis and complexus, while stimulation of low-threshold biventercervicis and complexus afferents evoked no p.s.p.s in trapezius motoneurones. 5. Stimulation of contralateral low-threshold biventer-cervicis and complexus afferents evoked a sequence of i.p.s.p. disinhibition in sternocleidomastoid motoneurones, and vice versa, with central delays longer than 1.7 msec. 6. Stimulation of the deafferented biventer-cervicis, complexus, splenius, sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle nerves frequently activated interneurones in the ventral horn at monosynaptic central delays. Activation of homoynmous ventral root fibres rarely evoked p.s.p.s in biventer-cervicis, complexius, splenius or sternocleidomastoid motoneurones, while it produced disynaptic i.p.s.p.s in 80% of trapezius motoneurones. 7. It is concluded that Ia reciprocal inhibition and recurrent inhibition, two reflex circuits which are so prominent in limb segments of the spinal cord, do not play a major role in the generation of head movement. Rather, head movement may be primarily controlled from supraspinal centres.", "contents": "Reflex connexions of motoneurones of muscles involved in head movement in the cat. 1. The reflex connexions from muscle afferents and ventral root fibres to the motoneurones of the muscles biventer-cervicis, complexus, sternocleidomastoid, trapezius and splenius, the principal muscles involved in head movement in the cat, were studied with the technique of intracellular recording. 2. Electrical stimulation of homonymous muscle afferents of biventer-cervicis and complexus, sternocleidomastoid and trapezius, at strengths below 1.6 times threshold of the dorsal root afferent volley, produced monosynaptic e.p.s.p.s in the corresponding motoneurones. Recruitment of higher threshold muscle afferents produced additional p.s.p.s with longer central delays. 3. Stimulation of low-threshold muscle afferents did not produce any p.s.p.s in the motoneurones of the ipsilateral antagonist. Stimulation of higher threshold afferents evoked i.p.s.p.s with central delays longer than 1.6 msec, or mixed e.p.s.p.-i.p.s.p.s in the ipsilateral antagonist. 4. Mixed e.p.s.p.-i.p.s.p.s or i.p.s.p.s with central delays longer than 1.5 msec were evoked in trapezius motoneurones upon stimulation of high threshold afferents from biventer-cervicis and complexus, while stimulation of low-threshold biventercervicis and complexus afferents evoked no p.s.p.s in trapezius motoneurones. 5. Stimulation of contralateral low-threshold biventer-cervicis and complexus afferents evoked a sequence of i.p.s.p. disinhibition in sternocleidomastoid motoneurones, and vice versa, with central delays longer than 1.7 msec. 6. Stimulation of the deafferented biventer-cervicis, complexus, splenius, sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle nerves frequently activated interneurones in the ventral horn at monosynaptic central delays. Activation of homoynmous ventral root fibres rarely evoked p.s.p.s in biventer-cervicis, complexius, splenius or sternocleidomastoid motoneurones, while it produced disynaptic i.p.s.p.s in 80% of trapezius motoneurones. 7. It is concluded that Ia reciprocal inhibition and recurrent inhibition, two reflex circuits which are so prominent in limb segments of the spinal cord, do not play a major role in the generation of head movement. Rather, head movement may be primarily controlled from supraspinal centres.", "PMID": 458663} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13400", "title": "An estimation of intracranial blood flow in the new-born infant.", "content": "1. A non-invasive method for the estimation of the intracranial blood flow of the new-born infant is described, and results obtained with it are presented. 2. The technique is a novel application of the principle of blood flow measurement by venous occlusion plethysmography. It is possible to apply a plethysmographic technique to the neonatal cranium because the presence of open sutures between the component bones permits small, but readily measurable, changes in intracranial volume to occur. 3. Skull volume changes are calculated from changes in the occipito-frontal circumference of the cranium as recorded and measured with a mercury-in-Silastic strain gauge. 4. The jugular veins in the baby's neck are occluded by finger pressure and there follows an increase in skull volume, which is rapid at first, but which decreases exponentially as venous drainage diverts to non-occluded channels such as the vertebral venous plexus. At the instant of jugular occlusion the rate of skull volume increase is representative of the rate of flow in the jugular vessels prior to occlusion, and so provides an index of the relative magnitude of the intracranial blood flow. The method thus allows changes in intracranial blood flow to be followed. When occlusion is released cranial volume decreases, initially rapidly, but slowing exponentially as resting volume is regained. 5. A theoretical model of the events occurring during the inflow and outflow phases has been developed, and a formula derived which allows an estimation to be made of the flow of blood through uncompressed channels. The measured value of jugular blood flow can then be augmented to an estimate of total intracranial flow. 6. The mean cerebral blood flow of sixteen normal babies was estimated to be 40 ml. 100 g-1.min-1 (S.D. = +/- 11.63).", "contents": "An estimation of intracranial blood flow in the new-born infant. 1. A non-invasive method for the estimation of the intracranial blood flow of the new-born infant is described, and results obtained with it are presented. 2. The technique is a novel application of the principle of blood flow measurement by venous occlusion plethysmography. It is possible to apply a plethysmographic technique to the neonatal cranium because the presence of open sutures between the component bones permits small, but readily measurable, changes in intracranial volume to occur. 3. Skull volume changes are calculated from changes in the occipito-frontal circumference of the cranium as recorded and measured with a mercury-in-Silastic strain gauge. 4. The jugular veins in the baby's neck are occluded by finger pressure and there follows an increase in skull volume, which is rapid at first, but which decreases exponentially as venous drainage diverts to non-occluded channels such as the vertebral venous plexus. At the instant of jugular occlusion the rate of skull volume increase is representative of the rate of flow in the jugular vessels prior to occlusion, and so provides an index of the relative magnitude of the intracranial blood flow. The method thus allows changes in intracranial blood flow to be followed. When occlusion is released cranial volume decreases, initially rapidly, but slowing exponentially as resting volume is regained. 5. A theoretical model of the events occurring during the inflow and outflow phases has been developed, and a formula derived which allows an estimation to be made of the flow of blood through uncompressed channels. The measured value of jugular blood flow can then be augmented to an estimate of total intracranial flow. 6. The mean cerebral blood flow of sixteen normal babies was estimated to be 40 ml. 100 g-1.min-1 (S.D. = +/- 11.63).", "PMID": 458665} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13401", "title": "Inhibitory mechanisms influencing complex cell orientation selectivity and their modification at high resting discharge levels.", "content": "1. These experiments have investigated the contribution made by GABA-mediated inhibitory processes to the orientation tuning of complex cells in the cat's striate cortex. The GABA antagonist bicuculline has been ionophoretically applied to individual complex cells and the modifications produced in their orientation tuning documented. 2. In terms of the type of change produced in orientation tuning by the application of bicuculline, it seems that there are two categories of complex cells. 3. In one of these categories the orientation selectivity was eliminated during bicuculline application. The excitatory input to these cells would therefore appear to be non-orientation specific. Their orientation selectivity is presumably generated by a GABA-mediated inhibitory input. 4. In the other category of complex cells, although the orientation selectivity was decreased during bicuculline application, the cells retained a preference for a range of orientations that was generally centred around the original optimal orientation. It is suggested that for these cells the inhibitory input enhances the orientation tuning of an excitatory input that is already broadly orientation tuned. 5. Comparison of normal orientation tuning curves with those observed during the application of bicuculline provides a basis for estimating the orientation tuning of the GABA-mediated inhibitory input. In all cases, it is clear that at normal resting discharge levels, orientations either side of the optimal, and not those centred on the optimal, generate the most powerful inhibitory input. 6. These results would seem to be best explained by inhibitory interconnexions between cortical columns sensitive to different orientations. This type of lateral interaction between columns may serve to enhance the contrast in the orientation domain for the cortical representation of a specific stimulus orientation. 7. Increasing the resting discharge level of a complex cell, without blocking the action of GABA appeared to increase the gain of the inhibitory mechanisms acting on the cell. The normal excitatory responses to optimal or near optimal orientations were greatly reduced, or replaced by inhibitory responses, and non-optimal orientations produced only inhibitory responses. These inhibitory effects were blocked on the context of other observations in the literature. It is tentatively suggested that the interneurones providing the inhibitory drive to complex cells receive an input from recurrent collaterals of the recipient complex cells. Their other inputs would derive from neighbouring colums and from the afferent input to the parent column. The inputs from neighbouring columns would mediate the lateral inhibitory interactions in the orientation domain, and the recurrent collateral feed-back the decreased responsiveness at high resting discharge levels.", "contents": "Inhibitory mechanisms influencing complex cell orientation selectivity and their modification at high resting discharge levels. 1. These experiments have investigated the contribution made by GABA-mediated inhibitory processes to the orientation tuning of complex cells in the cat's striate cortex. The GABA antagonist bicuculline has been ionophoretically applied to individual complex cells and the modifications produced in their orientation tuning documented. 2. In terms of the type of change produced in orientation tuning by the application of bicuculline, it seems that there are two categories of complex cells. 3. In one of these categories the orientation selectivity was eliminated during bicuculline application. The excitatory input to these cells would therefore appear to be non-orientation specific. Their orientation selectivity is presumably generated by a GABA-mediated inhibitory input. 4. In the other category of complex cells, although the orientation selectivity was decreased during bicuculline application, the cells retained a preference for a range of orientations that was generally centred around the original optimal orientation. It is suggested that for these cells the inhibitory input enhances the orientation tuning of an excitatory input that is already broadly orientation tuned. 5. Comparison of normal orientation tuning curves with those observed during the application of bicuculline provides a basis for estimating the orientation tuning of the GABA-mediated inhibitory input. In all cases, it is clear that at normal resting discharge levels, orientations either side of the optimal, and not those centred on the optimal, generate the most powerful inhibitory input. 6. These results would seem to be best explained by inhibitory interconnexions between cortical columns sensitive to different orientations. This type of lateral interaction between columns may serve to enhance the contrast in the orientation domain for the cortical representation of a specific stimulus orientation. 7. Increasing the resting discharge level of a complex cell, without blocking the action of GABA appeared to increase the gain of the inhibitory mechanisms acting on the cell. The normal excitatory responses to optimal or near optimal orientations were greatly reduced, or replaced by inhibitory responses, and non-optimal orientations produced only inhibitory responses. These inhibitory effects were blocked on the context of other observations in the literature. It is tentatively suggested that the interneurones providing the inhibitory drive to complex cells receive an input from recurrent collaterals of the recipient complex cells. Their other inputs would derive from neighbouring colums and from the afferent input to the parent column. The inputs from neighbouring columns would mediate the lateral inhibitory interactions in the orientation domain, and the recurrent collateral feed-back the decreased responsiveness at high resting discharge levels.", "PMID": 458666} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13402", "title": "The effects of calcium on outward membrane currents in the cardiac Purkinje fibre.", "content": "1. Properties of outward membrane currents in Purkinje fibres from sheep's hearts have been studied with particular reference to the effects of external Ca. 2. Altering Cao is found to shift the potential-dependence of channel neutralize negative charges at the external face of the membrane, but the different magnitudes of the effects of low Cao on the pace-maker and plateau currents suggest that the affinities of Ca-binding sites adjacent to each channel type are widely different. 3. Raising Cao causes a positive shift in the pace-maker current reversal potential, EK2, which may reflect a small elevation in the K concentration (Kc) in the restricted cleft space immediately outside the membrane. Other possible causes of the shift in EK2 are also discussed. 4. Raising Cao has effects on the plateau and pace-maker current rectifier relations, and on the time-independent membrane current, which resemble those of a small increase in extracellular K concentration. 5. Possible mechanisms for an increase in Kc in elevated Cao are discussed. Positive shifts in EK2 can be observed even when the membrane current becomes more inward, so it seems unlikely that the increase in Kc results from an activation of K channels by Ca ions. It is possible that increases in Ca partially inhibit the Na:K exchange pump. 6. The maximum transient outward current elicited by strong depolarizing steps is not affected by moderate reductions in Cao. 7. Reducing Nao depresses the pace-maker current rectifier relation with little shift in the activation curve. 8. We conclude that some of the effects of Cao on outward currents are due to shifts in the potential-dependence of channel activation, while others result from a small increase in Kc. No evidence for a direct effect of Ca on K channels has been found in the present study.", "contents": "The effects of calcium on outward membrane currents in the cardiac Purkinje fibre. 1. Properties of outward membrane currents in Purkinje fibres from sheep's hearts have been studied with particular reference to the effects of external Ca. 2. Altering Cao is found to shift the potential-dependence of channel neutralize negative charges at the external face of the membrane, but the different magnitudes of the effects of low Cao on the pace-maker and plateau currents suggest that the affinities of Ca-binding sites adjacent to each channel type are widely different. 3. Raising Cao causes a positive shift in the pace-maker current reversal potential, EK2, which may reflect a small elevation in the K concentration (Kc) in the restricted cleft space immediately outside the membrane. Other possible causes of the shift in EK2 are also discussed. 4. Raising Cao has effects on the plateau and pace-maker current rectifier relations, and on the time-independent membrane current, which resemble those of a small increase in extracellular K concentration. 5. Possible mechanisms for an increase in Kc in elevated Cao are discussed. Positive shifts in EK2 can be observed even when the membrane current becomes more inward, so it seems unlikely that the increase in Kc results from an activation of K channels by Ca ions. It is possible that increases in Ca partially inhibit the Na:K exchange pump. 6. The maximum transient outward current elicited by strong depolarizing steps is not affected by moderate reductions in Cao. 7. Reducing Nao depresses the pace-maker current rectifier relation with little shift in the activation curve. 8. We conclude that some of the effects of Cao on outward currents are due to shifts in the potential-dependence of channel activation, while others result from a small increase in Kc. No evidence for a direct effect of Ca on K channels has been found in the present study.", "PMID": 458668} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13403", "title": "Initiation and spread of action potentials in granule cells maintained in vitro in slices of guinea-pig hippocampus.", "content": "1. Laminar field potentials due to the synchronous activation of granule cells were studied in slices of guinea-pig hippocampus maintained in vitro. 2. Extracellular recordings confirmed that stimulation of afferent laminae in the molecular layer caused excitatory synaptic current to enter the granule cell dendrites. If large enough this current initiated action potentials at, or near to, the somata 100--200 micrometers away. 3. After a population spike had been initiated via excitatory synapses or via antidromic invasion, the lcoation of inward membrane current (sink) appeared to move from the cell body layer into the dendrites at a velocity of 0.08-0.12 m/sec, for a distance of up to 250 micrometers. 4. The sink movement into the dendrites was blocked by tetrodotoxin and not by agents that blocked synaptic activation. Together with other observations these results led to the conclusion that granule cell dendrites were invaded by action potentials from the cell body region. There was no evidence of dendritic action potentials from the cell body region. There was no evidence of dendritic action potentials preceding the cell body spike initiated by synaptic inputs. Possible functions of this dendritic invasion are discussed.", "contents": "Initiation and spread of action potentials in granule cells maintained in vitro in slices of guinea-pig hippocampus. 1. Laminar field potentials due to the synchronous activation of granule cells were studied in slices of guinea-pig hippocampus maintained in vitro. 2. Extracellular recordings confirmed that stimulation of afferent laminae in the molecular layer caused excitatory synaptic current to enter the granule cell dendrites. If large enough this current initiated action potentials at, or near to, the somata 100--200 micrometers away. 3. After a population spike had been initiated via excitatory synapses or via antidromic invasion, the lcoation of inward membrane current (sink) appeared to move from the cell body layer into the dendrites at a velocity of 0.08-0.12 m/sec, for a distance of up to 250 micrometers. 4. The sink movement into the dendrites was blocked by tetrodotoxin and not by agents that blocked synaptic activation. Together with other observations these results led to the conclusion that granule cell dendrites were invaded by action potentials from the cell body region. There was no evidence of dendritic action potentials from the cell body region. There was no evidence of dendritic action potentials preceding the cell body spike initiated by synaptic inputs. Possible functions of this dendritic invasion are discussed.", "PMID": 458671} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13404", "title": "The effect of ouabain on amino acid and orthophosphate influxes in squid giant axons.", "content": "1. Some effects of ouabain on the uptake of 14C-labelled amino acids and 32P-labelled orthophosphate into squid axons have been investigated. 2. Ouabain in artificial sea water reduced the uptake of glycine, L-alanine, L-arginine, L-aspartate and L-glutamate. After a period of 3 hr in ouabain the inhibition of glycine and L-glutamate uptake was appreciable. 3. After 3 hr in ouabain the axoplasmic Na concentration had increased by only about 14% and the K concentration had fallen by only about 9%. It therefore seems unlikely that changes in the Na and K gradients across the membrane due to ouabain are the reason for the inhibition of amino acid uptake. This was confirmed when the axons were made to conduct impulses at 200/sec for 40 min. There was no subsequent inhibition of glycine and L-glutamate uptake, even though the axoplasmic Na increased by about 42% and the K decreased by about 37%. 4. A detailed investigation of the time course of the inhibition of amino acid uptake by ouabain in which intracellular scintillator techniques were used, showed that there was no inhibition for 30--100 min, and then it occurred fairly quickly. This course of events was not affected by the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. It is unlikely that the inhibition of orthophosphate uptake is subject to a similar delay since this had reached a maximum after 40 min. 5. It is concluded that the inhibitory effects of ouabain on amino acid uptake in squid axons are not due to effects on the Na and K gradients brought about by inhibition of the Na-K pump. The delay in the inhibiton may reflect the operation of an intracellular regulatory mechanis, which is initiated when ouabain inhibits the pump but which takes time to operate. If the formation of an inhibitory second messenger molecule is involved this is unlikely to be a protein.", "contents": "The effect of ouabain on amino acid and orthophosphate influxes in squid giant axons. 1. Some effects of ouabain on the uptake of 14C-labelled amino acids and 32P-labelled orthophosphate into squid axons have been investigated. 2. Ouabain in artificial sea water reduced the uptake of glycine, L-alanine, L-arginine, L-aspartate and L-glutamate. After a period of 3 hr in ouabain the inhibition of glycine and L-glutamate uptake was appreciable. 3. After 3 hr in ouabain the axoplasmic Na concentration had increased by only about 14% and the K concentration had fallen by only about 9%. It therefore seems unlikely that changes in the Na and K gradients across the membrane due to ouabain are the reason for the inhibition of amino acid uptake. This was confirmed when the axons were made to conduct impulses at 200/sec for 40 min. There was no subsequent inhibition of glycine and L-glutamate uptake, even though the axoplasmic Na increased by about 42% and the K decreased by about 37%. 4. A detailed investigation of the time course of the inhibition of amino acid uptake by ouabain in which intracellular scintillator techniques were used, showed that there was no inhibition for 30--100 min, and then it occurred fairly quickly. This course of events was not affected by the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. It is unlikely that the inhibition of orthophosphate uptake is subject to a similar delay since this had reached a maximum after 40 min. 5. It is concluded that the inhibitory effects of ouabain on amino acid uptake in squid axons are not due to effects on the Na and K gradients brought about by inhibition of the Na-K pump. The delay in the inhibiton may reflect the operation of an intracellular regulatory mechanis, which is initiated when ouabain inhibits the pump but which takes time to operate. If the formation of an inhibitory second messenger molecule is involved this is unlikely to be a protein.", "PMID": 458672} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13405", "title": "Responses of neurones in nucleus interpositus of the cerebellum to cutaneous nerve volleys in the awake cat.", "content": "1. A method is described which permitted stable extracellular recordings to be made from 115 neurones in nucleus interpositus of the cerebellum in unanaesthetized free-to-move cats. At least 95% of the neurones were cerebellar efferent cells since they were antidromically invaded following electrical stimulation of the brachium conjunctivum in the region of the contralateral red nucleus. 2. In cats in a state of quiet wakefulness the majority of interpositus neurones were tonically active at rates ranging from 12 to 77 impulses/sec (over-all mean 34/sec). The remaining neurones were silent or discharged only a few impulses throughout observation periods of a few minutes. 3. Cutaneous afferent volleys elicited by single shocks to the superficial radial nerves in the forearm at intensities too weak to evoke a flexion reflex or behavioural arousal produced changes in firing frequency in 62% of eighty-one cells tested. Response patterns varied widely but in 86% of the responding cells the earliest change was a short latency (6--20 ms) increase in discharge probability which from post-stimulus time histograms was found usually to average around one impulse per stimulus. In only four cells (8%) the earliest response was a depression of the tonic firing. However, in many cells the initial acceleration was followed by a reduction in firing frequency which lasted between 10 and 85 ms. 4. In 56% of the responding cells a longer latency (25--80 ms) acceleration was present. Such accelerations varied widely in duration (from 55 to 550 ms) but most commonly lasted 100--200 ms. These responses were usually the most prominent feature in the response pattern: in the majority of neurones between two and five impulses were added per stimulus. 5. Considering the whole time course of the responses, the net effect of nerve volleys was to produce an increase in nuclear cell output. 6. These neurones which were influenced by nerve stimulation also discharged in response to taps to the forepaws. 7. The responses to nerve stimulation are compared with those encountered in previous studies using cats anaesthetized with chloralose or barbiturates and with the responses of Purkinje (P) cells and it is suggested that the longer latency excitatory responses result in large part from a reduction in the tonic inhibitory action exerted on the interpositus neurones by Purkinje cells. 8. The possibility is discussed that interpositus responses to cutaneous input from the limbs might contribute (via the rubrospinal system) to the regulation of spinal flexor mechanisms during locomotion and/or contact placing reactions.", "contents": "Responses of neurones in nucleus interpositus of the cerebellum to cutaneous nerve volleys in the awake cat. 1. A method is described which permitted stable extracellular recordings to be made from 115 neurones in nucleus interpositus of the cerebellum in unanaesthetized free-to-move cats. At least 95% of the neurones were cerebellar efferent cells since they were antidromically invaded following electrical stimulation of the brachium conjunctivum in the region of the contralateral red nucleus. 2. In cats in a state of quiet wakefulness the majority of interpositus neurones were tonically active at rates ranging from 12 to 77 impulses/sec (over-all mean 34/sec). The remaining neurones were silent or discharged only a few impulses throughout observation periods of a few minutes. 3. Cutaneous afferent volleys elicited by single shocks to the superficial radial nerves in the forearm at intensities too weak to evoke a flexion reflex or behavioural arousal produced changes in firing frequency in 62% of eighty-one cells tested. Response patterns varied widely but in 86% of the responding cells the earliest change was a short latency (6--20 ms) increase in discharge probability which from post-stimulus time histograms was found usually to average around one impulse per stimulus. In only four cells (8%) the earliest response was a depression of the tonic firing. However, in many cells the initial acceleration was followed by a reduction in firing frequency which lasted between 10 and 85 ms. 4. In 56% of the responding cells a longer latency (25--80 ms) acceleration was present. Such accelerations varied widely in duration (from 55 to 550 ms) but most commonly lasted 100--200 ms. These responses were usually the most prominent feature in the response pattern: in the majority of neurones between two and five impulses were added per stimulus. 5. Considering the whole time course of the responses, the net effect of nerve volleys was to produce an increase in nuclear cell output. 6. These neurones which were influenced by nerve stimulation also discharged in response to taps to the forepaws. 7. The responses to nerve stimulation are compared with those encountered in previous studies using cats anaesthetized with chloralose or barbiturates and with the responses of Purkinje (P) cells and it is suggested that the longer latency excitatory responses result in large part from a reduction in the tonic inhibitory action exerted on the interpositus neurones by Purkinje cells. 8. The possibility is discussed that interpositus responses to cutaneous input from the limbs might contribute (via the rubrospinal system) to the regulation of spinal flexor mechanisms during locomotion and/or contact placing reactions.", "PMID": 458674} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13406", "title": "Activity patterns of cerebellar cortical neurones and climbing fibre afferents in the awake cat.", "content": "1. Glass-insulated tungsten micro-electrodes were used to record from single neurones in the intermediate zone of the cerebellar cortex of cats in a state of quiet wakefulness. 2. Two hundred and seventy Purkinje (P) cells were recorded extracellularly, 95% of which displayed an irregular tonic discharge at rates between 19 and 95/s (over-all mean 44/s), including complex spikes (c.s.) which occurred at 1.0--2.5/s )over-all mean 1.5/s). The remaining cells discharged c.s. at the usual rate but only one or two simple spikes (s.s.) per minute. C.s. of spike plus wavelet and of multi-spiked type were present in approximately equal numbers of cells. 3. Presumed climbing fibre-e.p.s.p.s were recorded from fifty-six P cells and occurred both singly and in groups of two to six e.p.s.p.s at an intra-group frequency of about 500/s. The cells giving rise to the c.f.s therefore discharge propagated impulses both singly and in short bursts as previously reported for anesthetized animals. A single e.p.s.p. can give rise to more than one spike in the multi-spiked type of c.s., and probably to a complete c.s. event. 4. Following spontaneous c.s. the interval to the next s.s. varied from 8 to 600 ms. There was an inverse correlation between duration of the post-c.s. interval and the rate at which s.s. were discharged in the preceding 100 ms. The duration exceeded the mean s.s. interval provided s.s. rate was less than 40--50/s, and the post-c.s. interval would then constitute a real interruption of s.s. discharge. 5. When the superficial radial (s.r.) nerves were stimulated with single shocks too weak to produce a behavioural response changes in discharge pattern were detected in eighty-eight of 151 P cells tested. The initial responses were almost always excitatory and consisted in seventy-two cells of a c.s., in eleven of a c.s. preceded by a brief increase in s.s. and in two cases of a s.s. discharge alone. The spino-olivo-cerebellar paths responsible for the c.s. showed transmission characteristics similar to those reported for animals anaesthetized with barbiturates. 6. C.s. were readily evoked by tapping or squeezing the forepaws. 7. Excitatory responses to nerve stimulation were usually followed by a depression of the tonic s.s. discharge. Its duration ranged widely in different cells (from 10 to 500 ms) and it would coincide with equally variable periods of facilitation previously seen in neurones of nucleus interpositus. It is therefore likely that such facilitations of the cerebellar nuclear cells result at least in part from reductions in the tonic inhibitory input from the P cells. 8. Thirty-six units were classes as 'probable cortical interneurones'. They discharged more regularly, at rates between 9 and 28/s. Twenty such units (56%) responded to s.r. stimulation with a brief excitation not usually followed by any pronounced depression.", "contents": "Activity patterns of cerebellar cortical neurones and climbing fibre afferents in the awake cat. 1. Glass-insulated tungsten micro-electrodes were used to record from single neurones in the intermediate zone of the cerebellar cortex of cats in a state of quiet wakefulness. 2. Two hundred and seventy Purkinje (P) cells were recorded extracellularly, 95% of which displayed an irregular tonic discharge at rates between 19 and 95/s (over-all mean 44/s), including complex spikes (c.s.) which occurred at 1.0--2.5/s )over-all mean 1.5/s). The remaining cells discharged c.s. at the usual rate but only one or two simple spikes (s.s.) per minute. C.s. of spike plus wavelet and of multi-spiked type were present in approximately equal numbers of cells. 3. Presumed climbing fibre-e.p.s.p.s were recorded from fifty-six P cells and occurred both singly and in groups of two to six e.p.s.p.s at an intra-group frequency of about 500/s. The cells giving rise to the c.f.s therefore discharge propagated impulses both singly and in short bursts as previously reported for anesthetized animals. A single e.p.s.p. can give rise to more than one spike in the multi-spiked type of c.s., and probably to a complete c.s. event. 4. Following spontaneous c.s. the interval to the next s.s. varied from 8 to 600 ms. There was an inverse correlation between duration of the post-c.s. interval and the rate at which s.s. were discharged in the preceding 100 ms. The duration exceeded the mean s.s. interval provided s.s. rate was less than 40--50/s, and the post-c.s. interval would then constitute a real interruption of s.s. discharge. 5. When the superficial radial (s.r.) nerves were stimulated with single shocks too weak to produce a behavioural response changes in discharge pattern were detected in eighty-eight of 151 P cells tested. The initial responses were almost always excitatory and consisted in seventy-two cells of a c.s., in eleven of a c.s. preceded by a brief increase in s.s. and in two cases of a s.s. discharge alone. The spino-olivo-cerebellar paths responsible for the c.s. showed transmission characteristics similar to those reported for animals anaesthetized with barbiturates. 6. C.s. were readily evoked by tapping or squeezing the forepaws. 7. Excitatory responses to nerve stimulation were usually followed by a depression of the tonic s.s. discharge. Its duration ranged widely in different cells (from 10 to 500 ms) and it would coincide with equally variable periods of facilitation previously seen in neurones of nucleus interpositus. It is therefore likely that such facilitations of the cerebellar nuclear cells result at least in part from reductions in the tonic inhibitory input from the P cells. 8. Thirty-six units were classes as 'probable cortical interneurones'. They discharged more regularly, at rates between 9 and 28/s. Twenty such units (56%) responded to s.r. stimulation with a brief excitation not usually followed by any pronounced depression.", "PMID": 458677} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13407", "title": "The central control of the lumbar sympathetic pathway to the large intestine of the cat.", "content": "1. The origin of the lumbar sympathetic inhibitory outflow to the large intestine was studied by recording simultaneously changes in colonic motility and efferent firing in the lumbar colonic nerves (l.c.n.) following lesions at various levels of the neuraxis. 2. Multiunit recordings from the l.c.n. usually consisted of irregular grouped discharges which were unrelated to spontaneous colonic contractions or to respiratory or cardiac cycles. The firing was depressed by the administration of ganglionic blocking agents or by decentralization of the inferior mesenteric ganglion, indicating that it was post-ganglionic and primarily central in origin. 3. In the majority of experiments colonic motility and l.c.n. firing were not altered by transection of the cervical (C2-C3) or thoracic (T10-T13) spinal cord. However, in these acute spinal animals destruction of the lumbar ventral roots or the lumbar spinal cord markedly enhanced colonic motility and depressed l.c.n. firing. These findings indicate supraspinal mechanisms are not essential for the generation of the lumbar inhibitory outflow to the colon. 4. Transection of the l.c.n. enhanced colonic motility in animals with an intact neuraxis, in acute spinal animals and in animals where the thoracolumbar sympathetic outflow was blocked. It is concluded that peripheral ganglionic as well as spinal pathways can sustain an inhibitory input to the colon. 5. L.c.n. firing was enchanced by stretching or pinching the proximal colon or small intestine or by electrical stimulation of intestinal afferent fibres (Adelta and C fibres) in the l.c.m. and mesenteric branches of the splanchnic nerves. The reflexes occurred via spinal pathways and were blocked by transection of the lumbar dorsal roots. Spontaneous firing in the l.c.n. was also generated by isolated segments of the lumbar spinal cord; however, this firing occurred independently of traditional reflex pathways since it was uanffected by transection of the lumbar dorsal roots. It is concluded that the spontaneous firing must be generated via ventral root afferent pathways or via endogenous oscillator circuits in the lumbar spinal cord.", "contents": "The central control of the lumbar sympathetic pathway to the large intestine of the cat. 1. The origin of the lumbar sympathetic inhibitory outflow to the large intestine was studied by recording simultaneously changes in colonic motility and efferent firing in the lumbar colonic nerves (l.c.n.) following lesions at various levels of the neuraxis. 2. Multiunit recordings from the l.c.n. usually consisted of irregular grouped discharges which were unrelated to spontaneous colonic contractions or to respiratory or cardiac cycles. The firing was depressed by the administration of ganglionic blocking agents or by decentralization of the inferior mesenteric ganglion, indicating that it was post-ganglionic and primarily central in origin. 3. In the majority of experiments colonic motility and l.c.n. firing were not altered by transection of the cervical (C2-C3) or thoracic (T10-T13) spinal cord. However, in these acute spinal animals destruction of the lumbar ventral roots or the lumbar spinal cord markedly enhanced colonic motility and depressed l.c.n. firing. These findings indicate supraspinal mechanisms are not essential for the generation of the lumbar inhibitory outflow to the colon. 4. Transection of the l.c.n. enhanced colonic motility in animals with an intact neuraxis, in acute spinal animals and in animals where the thoracolumbar sympathetic outflow was blocked. It is concluded that peripheral ganglionic as well as spinal pathways can sustain an inhibitory input to the colon. 5. L.c.n. firing was enchanced by stretching or pinching the proximal colon or small intestine or by electrical stimulation of intestinal afferent fibres (Adelta and C fibres) in the l.c.m. and mesenteric branches of the splanchnic nerves. The reflexes occurred via spinal pathways and were blocked by transection of the lumbar dorsal roots. Spontaneous firing in the l.c.n. was also generated by isolated segments of the lumbar spinal cord; however, this firing occurred independently of traditional reflex pathways since it was uanffected by transection of the lumbar dorsal roots. It is concluded that the spontaneous firing must be generated via ventral root afferent pathways or via endogenous oscillator circuits in the lumbar spinal cord.", "PMID": 458680} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13408", "title": "The kinetics of iron uptake in vitro by human duodenal mucosa: studies in normal subjects.", "content": "1. A method for determining initial rates of unidirectional radio-Fe uptake from a ferric chelate of nitrilotriacetic acid by human duodenal biopsy specimens in vitro has been devised. [57Co]cyanocobalamin was used as an extracellular fluid marker, and was shown to give results in close agreement with other markers. 2. Uptake was linear for up to 20 min and exhibited saturation kinetics over the concentration range 18--450 mumole/1. 3. In the presence of 2:4 dinitrophenol and fluoride, uptake was reduced by approxi-50%, indicating dependence on metabolic energy. 4. Uptake of Fe was markedly diminished at reduced incubation temperatures, demonstrating a high activation energy for the uptake process. 5. Many of the criteria for the demonstration that the initial uptake of Fe depends on an active transport mechanism have been fulfilled. 6. The apparent distribution volume of 14C-labelled nitrilotriacetate chelate did not exceed the extracellular fluid space, suggesting that Fe is transferred to specific receptors on the enterocyte. The findings are discussed in relation to the possibility that uptake may be a rate-controlling step for the regulation of net intestinal absorption of Fe in man.", "contents": "The kinetics of iron uptake in vitro by human duodenal mucosa: studies in normal subjects. 1. A method for determining initial rates of unidirectional radio-Fe uptake from a ferric chelate of nitrilotriacetic acid by human duodenal biopsy specimens in vitro has been devised. [57Co]cyanocobalamin was used as an extracellular fluid marker, and was shown to give results in close agreement with other markers. 2. Uptake was linear for up to 20 min and exhibited saturation kinetics over the concentration range 18--450 mumole/1. 3. In the presence of 2:4 dinitrophenol and fluoride, uptake was reduced by approxi-50%, indicating dependence on metabolic energy. 4. Uptake of Fe was markedly diminished at reduced incubation temperatures, demonstrating a high activation energy for the uptake process. 5. Many of the criteria for the demonstration that the initial uptake of Fe depends on an active transport mechanism have been fulfilled. 6. The apparent distribution volume of 14C-labelled nitrilotriacetate chelate did not exceed the extracellular fluid space, suggesting that Fe is transferred to specific receptors on the enterocyte. The findings are discussed in relation to the possibility that uptake may be a rate-controlling step for the regulation of net intestinal absorption of Fe in man.", "PMID": 458682} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13409", "title": "The effect of temperature on the asymmetrical charge movement in squid giant axons.", "content": "1. Asymmetrical displacement currents ('gating currents') have been recorded in intracellularly perfused squid giant axons by averaging the currents associated with depolarizing and hyperpolarizing voltage pulses. The effect of temperature on 'gating currents' was studied and compared with the effect of temperature on Na currents. 2. Increasing the temperature in seven steps from 0 to 15 degrees C increased the area under the on- and off-response (Qon, Qoff). The average Q10 values for Qon and Qoff (measured with depolarizing pulses to 0 to 20 mV) were 1.41 and 1.62, respectively. 3. The on- and the off-response were described mathematically by the sum of two exponentials. The first component of the on-response, Qon 1, represented 80% or more of the total charge movement associated with 2.5 msec pulses; the Q10 of Qon 1 was similar to that of total Qon. The first component of the off-response, Qoff 1, represented 50--70% of total Qoff; its Q10 was smaller than that of total Qoff. 4. The temperature dependence of the rate constants (tauon 1)-1 and (tauoff 1)-1 was stronger at temperatures below 6--8 degrees C (Q10 = 3.1--6.4) than at higher temperatures (Q10 = 2.0--3.3). In an Arrhenius plot two lines of different slope were required to fit the data. 5. The effect of increasing the temperature on the Q vs. V curve can be described as an increase of Qmax or, alternatively, as a shift of the curve to more negative potentials. 6. Increasing the temperature from 0 to 15 degrees C increased the peak of the Na current (recorded in sea water with a fifth of the normal Na concentration), increased the rate constants taum-1 and tauh-1 and shifted the m3infinity and hinfinity curves to more positive potentials. 7. The Q10 of the rate constant taum-1 varied between 2.04 and 2.61 and was independent of temperature. In an Arrhenius plot the values for taum-1 could be fitted by a single line. 8. The results support the view that 'gating current' does not simply reflect changes of the Na activation variable m. The increase of Qon, Qoff with increasing temperature may be attributed to an increase in membrane fluidity. The possibility that those charges which become mobile at higher temperatures may not be related to gating is considered.", "contents": "The effect of temperature on the asymmetrical charge movement in squid giant axons. 1. Asymmetrical displacement currents ('gating currents') have been recorded in intracellularly perfused squid giant axons by averaging the currents associated with depolarizing and hyperpolarizing voltage pulses. The effect of temperature on 'gating currents' was studied and compared with the effect of temperature on Na currents. 2. Increasing the temperature in seven steps from 0 to 15 degrees C increased the area under the on- and off-response (Qon, Qoff). The average Q10 values for Qon and Qoff (measured with depolarizing pulses to 0 to 20 mV) were 1.41 and 1.62, respectively. 3. The on- and the off-response were described mathematically by the sum of two exponentials. The first component of the on-response, Qon 1, represented 80% or more of the total charge movement associated with 2.5 msec pulses; the Q10 of Qon 1 was similar to that of total Qon. The first component of the off-response, Qoff 1, represented 50--70% of total Qoff; its Q10 was smaller than that of total Qoff. 4. The temperature dependence of the rate constants (tauon 1)-1 and (tauoff 1)-1 was stronger at temperatures below 6--8 degrees C (Q10 = 3.1--6.4) than at higher temperatures (Q10 = 2.0--3.3). In an Arrhenius plot two lines of different slope were required to fit the data. 5. The effect of increasing the temperature on the Q vs. V curve can be described as an increase of Qmax or, alternatively, as a shift of the curve to more negative potentials. 6. Increasing the temperature from 0 to 15 degrees C increased the peak of the Na current (recorded in sea water with a fifth of the normal Na concentration), increased the rate constants taum-1 and tauh-1 and shifted the m3infinity and hinfinity curves to more positive potentials. 7. The Q10 of the rate constant taum-1 varied between 2.04 and 2.61 and was independent of temperature. In an Arrhenius plot the values for taum-1 could be fitted by a single line. 8. The results support the view that 'gating current' does not simply reflect changes of the Na activation variable m. The increase of Qon, Qoff with increasing temperature may be attributed to an increase in membrane fluidity. The possibility that those charges which become mobile at higher temperatures may not be related to gating is considered.", "PMID": 458684} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13410", "title": "An investigation into the validity of subatmospheric pressure recordings from synovial fluid and their dependence on joint angle.", "content": "1. Synovial fluid hydrostatic pressures were measured in normal knee (stifle) joints of anaesthetized rabbits using perforated cannulae. Pressures were subatmospheric in seventy out of seventy-two joints, with a mean value of -4.6 cm H2O (range 0 to -12 cm H2O) at joint angles of 120--150 degrees. 2. Similar values were obtained by a wick-in-needle technique (mean -4.0 cm H2O), which along with several other tests indicated that the subatmospheric values were not artifactual. 3. A slow rise in pressure of 1--2 cm H2O per hour in the motionless joint was attributed to a net filtration of fluid into the joint space. 4. Pressure increased as a curvilinear function of joint angle when the joint was flexed passively, the slope of the relationship depending on synovial fluid volume. Pressure also increased on active flexion of the joint, or on passively increasing the tension of soft peri-articular tissues. 5. Positive (above atmospheric) pressures in acutely flexed joints declined with time. Pressures declined less rapidly when synovial fluid was replaced by nonabsorbable paraffin oil. It was concluded that joint fluid can be absorbed by the synovium during acute flexion. 6. Processes which might generate subatmospheric pressures are discussed. The hypothesis is advanced that the flexion-dependent 'trans-synovial pump', possibly in series with a lymphatic pump, may account for the maintenance of a small synovial fluid volume and subatmospheric pressure in the face of a net filtration of fluid from synovial capillaries into the joint space.", "contents": "An investigation into the validity of subatmospheric pressure recordings from synovial fluid and their dependence on joint angle. 1. Synovial fluid hydrostatic pressures were measured in normal knee (stifle) joints of anaesthetized rabbits using perforated cannulae. Pressures were subatmospheric in seventy out of seventy-two joints, with a mean value of -4.6 cm H2O (range 0 to -12 cm H2O) at joint angles of 120--150 degrees. 2. Similar values were obtained by a wick-in-needle technique (mean -4.0 cm H2O), which along with several other tests indicated that the subatmospheric values were not artifactual. 3. A slow rise in pressure of 1--2 cm H2O per hour in the motionless joint was attributed to a net filtration of fluid into the joint space. 4. Pressure increased as a curvilinear function of joint angle when the joint was flexed passively, the slope of the relationship depending on synovial fluid volume. Pressure also increased on active flexion of the joint, or on passively increasing the tension of soft peri-articular tissues. 5. Positive (above atmospheric) pressures in acutely flexed joints declined with time. Pressures declined less rapidly when synovial fluid was replaced by nonabsorbable paraffin oil. It was concluded that joint fluid can be absorbed by the synovium during acute flexion. 6. Processes which might generate subatmospheric pressures are discussed. The hypothesis is advanced that the flexion-dependent 'trans-synovial pump', possibly in series with a lymphatic pump, may account for the maintenance of a small synovial fluid volume and subatmospheric pressure in the face of a net filtration of fluid from synovial capillaries into the joint space.", "PMID": 458691} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13411", "title": "The influence of hydrostatic pressure on trans-synovial fluid movement and on capsular expansion in the rabbit knee.", "content": "1. The flow of Ringer solution or paraffin oil from an infusion reservoir into the cavity of the knee (stifle) joint was measured in anesthetized rabbits, as intraarticular pressure was progressively elevated from its intrinsic slightly subatmospheric value to +25 cm H2O. 2. Paraffin oil did not penetrate the tissues lining the joint cavity, yet a continuous flow of oil occurred into the joint at pressures over +2 cm H2O. It was concluded that the joint investment behaved as a visco-elastic tissue. 3. Trans-synovial flow of Ringer solution was calculated by correcting the observed inflow for visco-elastic expansion of the joint capsule. At intra-articular pressures +2 to +9 cm H2O, trans-synovial flow increased at an average rate of 0.49 microliter min-1.cm H2O-1. The hydraulic conductivity of the synovium was therefore similar to that of subcutaneous connective tissue. At around +9 cm H2O, the 'breaking pressure', the slope of the pressure-flow relationship increased by almost sixfold to 2.81 microliter min-1.cm H2O-1. 4. Changes in joint visco-elasticity, synovial surface area, blood pressure, colloid osmotic pressure of plasma and of joint fluid, and inflammation were excluded as explanations of the marked increase in rate of fluid absorption, which is tentatively attributed to increases in synovial hydraulic conductivity. Some physiological and clinical implications of the data are discussed.", "contents": "The influence of hydrostatic pressure on trans-synovial fluid movement and on capsular expansion in the rabbit knee. 1. The flow of Ringer solution or paraffin oil from an infusion reservoir into the cavity of the knee (stifle) joint was measured in anesthetized rabbits, as intraarticular pressure was progressively elevated from its intrinsic slightly subatmospheric value to +25 cm H2O. 2. Paraffin oil did not penetrate the tissues lining the joint cavity, yet a continuous flow of oil occurred into the joint at pressures over +2 cm H2O. It was concluded that the joint investment behaved as a visco-elastic tissue. 3. Trans-synovial flow of Ringer solution was calculated by correcting the observed inflow for visco-elastic expansion of the joint capsule. At intra-articular pressures +2 to +9 cm H2O, trans-synovial flow increased at an average rate of 0.49 microliter min-1.cm H2O-1. The hydraulic conductivity of the synovium was therefore similar to that of subcutaneous connective tissue. At around +9 cm H2O, the 'breaking pressure', the slope of the pressure-flow relationship increased by almost sixfold to 2.81 microliter min-1.cm H2O-1. 4. Changes in joint visco-elasticity, synovial surface area, blood pressure, colloid osmotic pressure of plasma and of joint fluid, and inflammation were excluded as explanations of the marked increase in rate of fluid absorption, which is tentatively attributed to increases in synovial hydraulic conductivity. Some physiological and clinical implications of the data are discussed.", "PMID": 458708} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13412", "title": "Charge movement and membrane capacity in frog muscle.", "content": "1. The transient current required to impose a step charge of potential has a complex time course especially in the region of internal potential between -50 and -40 mV. 2. Examination of non-linear transient current in this voltage range suggests two components of charge movement: (a) an initial more-or-less exponential movement, and (b) a slower component with a complex time course. 3. Measurements of membrane capacity support such a division and confirm the steeper voltage dependence of the slower charge movement. 4. Permanent depolarization to 40 mV appears to immobilize the slowly moving charge. Depolarization to -20 mV immobilizes both charge movements, and uncovers the presence of a third charge which seems to correspond to Charge 2 (cf. Adrian & Almers, 1976b; Adrian, Chandler & Rakowski, 1976).", "contents": "Charge movement and membrane capacity in frog muscle. 1. The transient current required to impose a step charge of potential has a complex time course especially in the region of internal potential between -50 and -40 mV. 2. Examination of non-linear transient current in this voltage range suggests two components of charge movement: (a) an initial more-or-less exponential movement, and (b) a slower component with a complex time course. 3. Measurements of membrane capacity support such a division and confirm the steeper voltage dependence of the slower charge movement. 4. Permanent depolarization to 40 mV appears to immobilize the slowly moving charge. Depolarization to -20 mV immobilizes both charge movements, and uncovers the presence of a third charge which seems to correspond to Charge 2 (cf. Adrian & Almers, 1976b; Adrian, Chandler & Rakowski, 1976).", "PMID": 458722} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13413", "title": "Sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular bed.", "content": "1. A modification of the vascular perfusion technique was used to investigate sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular perfusion technique was used to investigate sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular bed. 2. With this method the transfer of both D-[3H]galactose and L-[14C]glucose were followed in the same experiments. The results indicate that when equimolar concentrations of the two sugars are perfused through the lumen there is a preferential transfer of galactose from the mucosal epithelium to the vascular bed as well as from lumen to the epithelial layer. 3. At high rates of galactose transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed, accumulation of the sugar within the mucosal epithelium is minimal unless the vascular flow is stopped. 4. Phlorizin inhibits galactose transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed, but the inhibition of sugar transfer appears to be restricted to the luminal face of the epithelial cells since the selectivity of the basolateral exit process is unaffected. 5. Replacement of Na+ by K+ in the luminal perfusate reduces the rate of galactose transfer by a factor of 40, but does not completely abolish the preferential transfer of galactose. The presence of luminal Na+ also stimulates the exit of galactose from the mucosal epithelium to the vascular bed. 6. The presence of D-glucose in the vascular perfusate produces a two- to threefold increase in the rate of sugar transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed. This effect is not observed with vascular galactose or luminal glucose.", "contents": "Sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular bed. 1. A modification of the vascular perfusion technique was used to investigate sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular perfusion technique was used to investigate sugar transfer from the lumen of the rat small intestine to the vascular bed. 2. With this method the transfer of both D-[3H]galactose and L-[14C]glucose were followed in the same experiments. The results indicate that when equimolar concentrations of the two sugars are perfused through the lumen there is a preferential transfer of galactose from the mucosal epithelium to the vascular bed as well as from lumen to the epithelial layer. 3. At high rates of galactose transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed, accumulation of the sugar within the mucosal epithelium is minimal unless the vascular flow is stopped. 4. Phlorizin inhibits galactose transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed, but the inhibition of sugar transfer appears to be restricted to the luminal face of the epithelial cells since the selectivity of the basolateral exit process is unaffected. 5. Replacement of Na+ by K+ in the luminal perfusate reduces the rate of galactose transfer by a factor of 40, but does not completely abolish the preferential transfer of galactose. The presence of luminal Na+ also stimulates the exit of galactose from the mucosal epithelium to the vascular bed. 6. The presence of D-glucose in the vascular perfusate produces a two- to threefold increase in the rate of sugar transfer from the lumen to the vascular bed. This effect is not observed with vascular galactose or luminal glucose.", "PMID": 458734} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13414", "title": "[Electrical pacing in the gastroduodenal junction area of conscious dogs (author's transl)].", "content": "To determine whether the electric activities of the stomach and duodenum are related, the gastroduodenal junction area of the stomach of dogs was paced through implanted bipolar silver electrodes. It was found that the pacing rate of the basic electrical rhythm (BER) in the antrum of the stomach could be increased to a maximum of 8.9 cycles/min, without affecting the BER frequency in the duodenum. Conversely when the pacing rate of the BER in the duodenum was increased to a maximum of 24 cycles/min, the BER frequency in the antrum remained unaffected. These results show that the BER in the stomach and duodenum are independent, and imply that the BER cycles in the stomach and duodenum are due to the presence of two independent pace-maker areas.", "contents": "[Electrical pacing in the gastroduodenal junction area of conscious dogs (author's transl)]. To determine whether the electric activities of the stomach and duodenum are related, the gastroduodenal junction area of the stomach of dogs was paced through implanted bipolar silver electrodes. It was found that the pacing rate of the basic electrical rhythm (BER) in the antrum of the stomach could be increased to a maximum of 8.9 cycles/min, without affecting the BER frequency in the duodenum. Conversely when the pacing rate of the BER in the duodenum was increased to a maximum of 24 cycles/min, the BER frequency in the antrum remained unaffected. These results show that the BER in the stomach and duodenum are independent, and imply that the BER cycles in the stomach and duodenum are due to the presence of two independent pace-maker areas.", "PMID": 458735} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13415", "title": "Effects of true and inverted feedback on integrated occipital alpha.", "content": "Ambient illumination had no effect on baseline levels of alpha of 20 female university students who had their eyes closed, and significant increases from these levels were obtained through true but not inverted feedback procedures. These results indicate that alpha enhancement can be obtained in a manner that is not explicable in terms of disinhibition processes.", "contents": "Effects of true and inverted feedback on integrated occipital alpha. Ambient illumination had no effect on baseline levels of alpha of 20 female university students who had their eyes closed, and significant increases from these levels were obtained through true but not inverted feedback procedures. These results indicate that alpha enhancement can be obtained in a manner that is not explicable in terms of disinhibition processes.", "PMID": 458747} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13416", "title": "Standard intelligence tests are valid instruments for measuring the intellectual potential of urban children: comments on pitfalls in the measurement of intelligence.", "content": "Hardy, Welcher, Mellitis, and Kagan altered standard WISC administrative and scoring procedures and, from the resulting higher subtest scores, concluded that IQs based on standardized tests are inappropriate measures for inner-city children. Careful examination of their study reveals many methodological inadequacies and problematic interpretations. Three of these are as follows: (a) failure to use any external criterion to evaluate the validity of their testing-of-limits procedures; (b) the possibility of examiner and investigator bias; and (c) lack of any comparison group that might demonstrate that poor children would be helped more than others by the probes recommended. Their report creates misleading doubts about existing intelligence tests and does a disservice to inner-city children who need the benefits of the judicious use of diagnostic procedures, which include standardized intelligence tests. Consequently, their assertion concerning the inappropriateness of standardized test results for inner-city children is not only premature and misleading, but it is unwarranted as well.", "contents": "Standard intelligence tests are valid instruments for measuring the intellectual potential of urban children: comments on pitfalls in the measurement of intelligence. Hardy, Welcher, Mellitis, and Kagan altered standard WISC administrative and scoring procedures and, from the resulting higher subtest scores, concluded that IQs based on standardized tests are inappropriate measures for inner-city children. Careful examination of their study reveals many methodological inadequacies and problematic interpretations. Three of these are as follows: (a) failure to use any external criterion to evaluate the validity of their testing-of-limits procedures; (b) the possibility of examiner and investigator bias; and (c) lack of any comparison group that might demonstrate that poor children would be helped more than others by the probes recommended. Their report creates misleading doubts about existing intelligence tests and does a disservice to inner-city children who need the benefits of the judicious use of diagnostic procedures, which include standardized intelligence tests. Consequently, their assertion concerning the inappropriateness of standardized test results for inner-city children is not only premature and misleading, but it is unwarranted as well.", "PMID": 458748} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13417", "title": "Learned helplessness: performance as a function of task significance.", "content": "In a study based on the contention that response decrement may be interpreted in terms of learned helplessness only if Ss are aware that their poor performance is due to factors beyond their control (N = 60 male and female high school students), awareness was manipulated by varying \"task significance\" within the learned helplessness paradigm. Evidence was provided for the hypothesis that Test Task performance would vary inversely with task significance: i.e., the degree to which Ss perceived their competence to be reflected in low scores on the (unsolvable) Training Task. Compared to the Control group, Experimentals (a) solved significantly fewer Test Task anagrams of moderate difficulty, and (b) showed markedly decreased confidence and increased anxiety about their performance, which they attributed to uncontrollable personal characteristics. These findings supported the assertion that learned helplessness has been inadequately substantiated as the explanation of the results of several previous studies.", "contents": "Learned helplessness: performance as a function of task significance. In a study based on the contention that response decrement may be interpreted in terms of learned helplessness only if Ss are aware that their poor performance is due to factors beyond their control (N = 60 male and female high school students), awareness was manipulated by varying \"task significance\" within the learned helplessness paradigm. Evidence was provided for the hypothesis that Test Task performance would vary inversely with task significance: i.e., the degree to which Ss perceived their competence to be reflected in low scores on the (unsolvable) Training Task. Compared to the Control group, Experimentals (a) solved significantly fewer Test Task anagrams of moderate difficulty, and (b) showed markedly decreased confidence and increased anxiety about their performance, which they attributed to uncontrollable personal characteristics. These findings supported the assertion that learned helplessness has been inadequately substantiated as the explanation of the results of several previous studies.", "PMID": 458750} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13418", "title": "Physiology and disease of the respiratory system in pregnancy. A review.", "content": "This review has attempted to describe the changes in respiratory physiology which occur during pregnancy and to use this knowledge to aid in the understanding of respiratory disease. Three forms of respiratory failure have been described and representative examples of each discussed.", "contents": "Physiology and disease of the respiratory system in pregnancy. A review. This review has attempted to describe the changes in respiratory physiology which occur during pregnancy and to use this knowledge to aid in the understanding of respiratory disease. Three forms of respiratory failure have been described and representative examples of each discussed.", "PMID": 458760} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13419", "title": "Estimating vaginal blood loss.", "content": "In order to estimate amounts of vaginal bleeding, obstetrician-gynecologists have traditionally asked women the number of napkins, pads or tampons they use. This method of estimation rests on the assumptions that the volume of blood absorbed by various sanitary products is (1) known and (2) equivalent. To test these underlying assumptions the blood absorption capacity of 15 commercially available sanitary products was measured. Mean absorptions ranged from 1.32 to 94.86 ml for different products; a one-way analysis of variance showed that these mean absorptions were not equal (p less than .001). Moreover, products within a single package revealed substantial variations in absorbency. Thus, asking women the number of sanitary products they use is unlikely to yield clinically useful information; such questions should probably be deleted from the gynecologic history.", "contents": "Estimating vaginal blood loss. In order to estimate amounts of vaginal bleeding, obstetrician-gynecologists have traditionally asked women the number of napkins, pads or tampons they use. This method of estimation rests on the assumptions that the volume of blood absorbed by various sanitary products is (1) known and (2) equivalent. To test these underlying assumptions the blood absorption capacity of 15 commercially available sanitary products was measured. Mean absorptions ranged from 1.32 to 94.86 ml for different products; a one-way analysis of variance showed that these mean absorptions were not equal (p less than .001). Moreover, products within a single package revealed substantial variations in absorbency. Thus, asking women the number of sanitary products they use is unlikely to yield clinically useful information; such questions should probably be deleted from the gynecologic history.", "PMID": 458761} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13420", "title": "A rare obstetric contraindication to the use of vaginal prostaglandins for fetal demise.", "content": "A rare obstetric contraindication to the use of vaginal prostaglandins for fetal demise is presented in the form of a case report. After two failed pitocin inductions for a third-trimester fetal demise, a patient was referred to the University of Washington for definitive management. She was delivered of an advanced intraligamentous pregnancy at laparotomy. Preoperative diagnosis can avert a futile attempt at evacuation of the dead fetus, but preoperative diagnosis of intraligamentous pregnancy is rare. When the cervix is found in the extreme anterior position high in the vagina behind the symphysis and the fetal head is below it, the diagnosis of extrauterine pregnancy should always be considered.", "contents": "A rare obstetric contraindication to the use of vaginal prostaglandins for fetal demise. A rare obstetric contraindication to the use of vaginal prostaglandins for fetal demise is presented in the form of a case report. After two failed pitocin inductions for a third-trimester fetal demise, a patient was referred to the University of Washington for definitive management. She was delivered of an advanced intraligamentous pregnancy at laparotomy. Preoperative diagnosis can avert a futile attempt at evacuation of the dead fetus, but preoperative diagnosis of intraligamentous pregnancy is rare. When the cervix is found in the extreme anterior position high in the vagina behind the symphysis and the fetal head is below it, the diagnosis of extrauterine pregnancy should always be considered.", "PMID": 458763} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13421", "title": "Late effects of induced abortion. Hypothesis or knowledge?", "content": "Recent local, state and federal regulations intending to provide \"informed consent\" for women considering termination of pregnancy have misrepresented the current state of knowledge about certain long-term complications: the alleged risks are presented to the patient as if they were scientific facts rather than still-unproven hypotheses. While it is possible that some late sequelae are associated with previously induced abortions, there is no agreement in the scientific literature on the magnitude of the risks, if any. Moreover, few studies adequately define the particular method of induced abortion whose effects they are investigating. The current data do not support firm conclusions about induced abortion either causing or not causing any of the alleged long-term complications.", "contents": "Late effects of induced abortion. Hypothesis or knowledge? Recent local, state and federal regulations intending to provide \"informed consent\" for women considering termination of pregnancy have misrepresented the current state of knowledge about certain long-term complications: the alleged risks are presented to the patient as if they were scientific facts rather than still-unproven hypotheses. While it is possible that some late sequelae are associated with previously induced abortions, there is no agreement in the scientific literature on the magnitude of the risks, if any. Moreover, few studies adequately define the particular method of induced abortion whose effects they are investigating. The current data do not support firm conclusions about induced abortion either causing or not causing any of the alleged long-term complications.", "PMID": 458764} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13422", "title": "Congenital, complete heart block in the infant of a woman with collagen vascular disease. A case report.", "content": "Persistent fetal bradycardia may have multiple etiologies. The following represents a case of persistent fetal bradycardia due to congenital heart block in the infant of a woman with suspected collagen vascular disease. A review of the literature and a discussion of the association of maternal collagen vascular disease and congenital heart block is presented. The prognosis of infants with congenital heart block is reviewed and the possible association with growth retardation discussed.", "contents": "Congenital, complete heart block in the infant of a woman with collagen vascular disease. A case report. Persistent fetal bradycardia may have multiple etiologies. The following represents a case of persistent fetal bradycardia due to congenital heart block in the infant of a woman with suspected collagen vascular disease. A review of the literature and a discussion of the association of maternal collagen vascular disease and congenital heart block is presented. The prognosis of infants with congenital heart block is reviewed and the possible association with growth retardation discussed.", "PMID": 458765} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13423", "title": "Cervical dysplasia in a large, predominantly black practice as diagnosed by colposcopy in patients with normal and class II Papanicolaou smears.", "content": "Six hundred eighty-four patients were colposcoped over a one-and-one-half-year period. These patients ranged in age from 18 to 42 years. Parity ranged from zero to five. Cytology ranged from normal (class I) to class II Papanicolaou smears. Eighty-five patients were found to have cervical dysplasia, giving an overall picture of 12.4%. Of these 85, 8 had carcinoma in situ, 1 had microinvasive disease, and 1 had frankly invasive disease. The aim of this study was to show the frequency of dysplasia in a high-risk black population that would have been missed if cytology alone were the diagnostic tool.", "contents": "Cervical dysplasia in a large, predominantly black practice as diagnosed by colposcopy in patients with normal and class II Papanicolaou smears. Six hundred eighty-four patients were colposcoped over a one-and-one-half-year period. These patients ranged in age from 18 to 42 years. Parity ranged from zero to five. Cytology ranged from normal (class I) to class II Papanicolaou smears. Eighty-five patients were found to have cervical dysplasia, giving an overall picture of 12.4%. Of these 85, 8 had carcinoma in situ, 1 had microinvasive disease, and 1 had frankly invasive disease. The aim of this study was to show the frequency of dysplasia in a high-risk black population that would have been missed if cytology alone were the diagnostic tool.", "PMID": 458768} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13424", "title": "Contraceptive use-effectiveness and the American adolescent.", "content": "Contraceptive use-effectiveness is significantly shaped by the contraceptors' ages, for pregnancy rates are found to be a function of age. Teenagers are more failure prone than older contracepting women, regardless of method. This higher teenage failure rate can indicate clearly the use-effectiveness of various contraceptive methods. Consequently, both user and method (whether modern or traditional) determine outcome levels of contraceptive use-effectiveness.", "contents": "Contraceptive use-effectiveness and the American adolescent. Contraceptive use-effectiveness is significantly shaped by the contraceptors' ages, for pregnancy rates are found to be a function of age. Teenagers are more failure prone than older contracepting women, regardless of method. This higher teenage failure rate can indicate clearly the use-effectiveness of various contraceptive methods. Consequently, both user and method (whether modern or traditional) determine outcome levels of contraceptive use-effectiveness.", "PMID": 458771} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13425", "title": "The effects of prenatal diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure on the genitalia of pubertal Macaca mulatta. I. Female offspring.", "content": "Nineteen pregnant female rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) received 1 mg/day diethylstilbestrol (DES) over three time periods during gestation: day 21 to delivery (group I), day 100 to delivery (group II) and day 130 to delivery (group III). Seven females and five males of a total of 20 offspring are presently alive at 5 1/2 years of age; one female died at 5 years of age. No deaths have been shown to be treatment related. In female offspring, menstruation began at about 2 1/2 years of age, was irregular for approximately one and one-half to two years and then became regular. Vaginal ridging and/or cervical hooding have been observed in seven of the eight DES-exposed females, and three had histologically demonstrable vaginal adenosis. None of the anomalies was related to a specific treatment period, for they appeared in all treatment groups, nor did they occur in the age-matched controls. Furthermore, none of the animals, either treated or control, showed any evidence of adenocarcinoma. Therefore, exposure of Macaca mulatta females to DES in utero appears to be teratogenic, but thus far no carcinogenicity has been observed. Reports in humans indicate that adenocarcinoma is an additional manifestation of prenatal exposure to DES; also, treatment effects appear to be more commonly observed in individuals exposed during the early stages of gestation. From this viewpoint, the rhesus monkey is a potentially valuable model for the study of vaginocervical anomalies and adenosis, but it is premature to consider it a suitable model for the study of adenocarcinoma.", "contents": "The effects of prenatal diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure on the genitalia of pubertal Macaca mulatta. I. Female offspring. Nineteen pregnant female rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) received 1 mg/day diethylstilbestrol (DES) over three time periods during gestation: day 21 to delivery (group I), day 100 to delivery (group II) and day 130 to delivery (group III). Seven females and five males of a total of 20 offspring are presently alive at 5 1/2 years of age; one female died at 5 years of age. No deaths have been shown to be treatment related. In female offspring, menstruation began at about 2 1/2 years of age, was irregular for approximately one and one-half to two years and then became regular. Vaginal ridging and/or cervical hooding have been observed in seven of the eight DES-exposed females, and three had histologically demonstrable vaginal adenosis. None of the anomalies was related to a specific treatment period, for they appeared in all treatment groups, nor did they occur in the age-matched controls. Furthermore, none of the animals, either treated or control, showed any evidence of adenocarcinoma. Therefore, exposure of Macaca mulatta females to DES in utero appears to be teratogenic, but thus far no carcinogenicity has been observed. Reports in humans indicate that adenocarcinoma is an additional manifestation of prenatal exposure to DES; also, treatment effects appear to be more commonly observed in individuals exposed during the early stages of gestation. From this viewpoint, the rhesus monkey is a potentially valuable model for the study of vaginocervical anomalies and adenosis, but it is premature to consider it a suitable model for the study of adenocarcinoma.", "PMID": 458772} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13426", "title": "The comparative efficacy and safety of intraamniotic prostaglandin F2 alpha and hypertonic saline for second-trimester abortion. A review and critique.", "content": "Intraamniotic instillation of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) is considered by many to be safer than instillation of hypertonic saline for second-trimester abortion. To evaluate the validity of this hypothesis, we reviewed 15 comparisons of these two abortifacients published in the English literature since 1973. These reports suggest that while PGF2 alpha induces abortion faster than saline, PGF2 alpha is associated with higher rates of unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects, incomplete abortion, hemorrhage and surgical reevacuation. In addition, the rate of live-born fetuses after PGF2 alpha-induced abortion may be 5 to 40 times that of saline. The existing literature does not substantiate the claim that PGF2 alpha is superior to saline as an abortifacient.", "contents": "The comparative efficacy and safety of intraamniotic prostaglandin F2 alpha and hypertonic saline for second-trimester abortion. A review and critique. Intraamniotic instillation of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) is considered by many to be safer than instillation of hypertonic saline for second-trimester abortion. To evaluate the validity of this hypothesis, we reviewed 15 comparisons of these two abortifacients published in the English literature since 1973. These reports suggest that while PGF2 alpha induces abortion faster than saline, PGF2 alpha is associated with higher rates of unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects, incomplete abortion, hemorrhage and surgical reevacuation. In addition, the rate of live-born fetuses after PGF2 alpha-induced abortion may be 5 to 40 times that of saline. The existing literature does not substantiate the claim that PGF2 alpha is superior to saline as an abortifacient.", "PMID": 458773} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13427", "title": "Use of enzymatically isolated chondrocytes for short term metabolic studies.", "content": "Chondrocytes isolated from calf articular cartilage by pretreatment with various enzymes prior to collagenase digestion were examined to determine the effect of enzymatic exposure on cell viability and to establish optimal conditions whereby freshly isolated cells could be used for short term metabolic studies. Pre-collagenase exposure to proteolytic enzymes for short intervals has no effect on cell viability. Trypsin pre-treatment appeared to increase the efficiency of cell isolation. Proteoglycan and RNA synthetic activity was influenced by the conditions of incubation (i.e., cell suspension vs. cell pellet: with or without a 24 hour \"rest\" period; and differential pre-collagenase enzyme exposure). The data suggest that the experimental conditions of incubation and the enzymes used in isolation of the cells, materially alter the freshly isolated chondrocyte's \"pattern\" of metabolic activity in short term culture studies.", "contents": "Use of enzymatically isolated chondrocytes for short term metabolic studies. Chondrocytes isolated from calf articular cartilage by pretreatment with various enzymes prior to collagenase digestion were examined to determine the effect of enzymatic exposure on cell viability and to establish optimal conditions whereby freshly isolated cells could be used for short term metabolic studies. Pre-collagenase exposure to proteolytic enzymes for short intervals has no effect on cell viability. Trypsin pre-treatment appeared to increase the efficiency of cell isolation. Proteoglycan and RNA synthetic activity was influenced by the conditions of incubation (i.e., cell suspension vs. cell pellet: with or without a 24 hour \"rest\" period; and differential pre-collagenase enzyme exposure). The data suggest that the experimental conditions of incubation and the enzymes used in isolation of the cells, materially alter the freshly isolated chondrocyte's \"pattern\" of metabolic activity in short term culture studies.", "PMID": 458786} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13428", "title": "Normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate with hyperfibrinogenemia in 6-sulfanilamidoindazole arthritis.", "content": "The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is the most frequently employed laboratory indicator of inflammatory activity. The plasma fibrinogen concentration is usually increased in inflammatory disorders and is thought to contribute to the ESR elevation, 6-sulfanilamidoindazole induced arthritis in rats produces very high plasma fibrinogen concentrations and increased blood viscosity but no change in ESR.", "contents": "Normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate with hyperfibrinogenemia in 6-sulfanilamidoindazole arthritis. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is the most frequently employed laboratory indicator of inflammatory activity. The plasma fibrinogen concentration is usually increased in inflammatory disorders and is thought to contribute to the ESR elevation, 6-sulfanilamidoindazole induced arthritis in rats produces very high plasma fibrinogen concentrations and increased blood viscosity but no change in ESR.", "PMID": 458787} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13429", "title": "Further studies on the specific infectious agent isolated in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "The active agent in crude or extracted materials from patients with acute rheumatoid arthritis (RA), when injected into embryonated eggs, produced an increased percentage of characteristic \"crooked toe\" defects in the bioassay. Experimental RA chick materials also produced these defects. A protein-free ribonucleic acid extract from RA synovia and joint fluids of patients with acute or subacute classical RA produced the same experimental RA lesions as did the crude materials, but non-RA materials and controls did not. The injected RA material produced the \"crooked toe\" disease in chicks in direct proportion to the clinically diagnosed severity of the RA in the patient, and inversely with dilution.", "contents": "Further studies on the specific infectious agent isolated in rheumatoid arthritis. The active agent in crude or extracted materials from patients with acute rheumatoid arthritis (RA), when injected into embryonated eggs, produced an increased percentage of characteristic \"crooked toe\" defects in the bioassay. Experimental RA chick materials also produced these defects. A protein-free ribonucleic acid extract from RA synovia and joint fluids of patients with acute or subacute classical RA produced the same experimental RA lesions as did the crude materials, but non-RA materials and controls did not. The injected RA material produced the \"crooked toe\" disease in chicks in direct proportion to the clinically diagnosed severity of the RA in the patient, and inversely with dilution.", "PMID": 458788} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13430", "title": "Hydroxyapatite crystal-induced inflammation and prostaglandin E1.", "content": "Hyroxyapatite (HOAp), tribasic calcium phosphate, crystals induced typical signs of inflammation when injected into the footpad of the rat. Rats deficient in essential fatty acids (EFA) and thereby deficient in prostaglandins (PG) demonstrated less swelling than did normal controls. Similar reduced inflammatory swelling resulted from the use of HOAp crystals heated to 200 degrees C. The reduced inflammogenic effect of the heated crystal and the reduced response of the EFA-deficient rat were comparable and were corrected by adding PGE1. This PGE1 influence was of short duration in both test systems. A new theory of crystal induced inflammation is presented based on experiments using PGE1 with monosodium urate, calcium pyrophosphate and HOAp crystals. It is suggested that this inflammation is a membrane phenomenon related to synthesis or release of PG from cellular membranes stimulated by an electrostatic force from the crystals.", "contents": "Hydroxyapatite crystal-induced inflammation and prostaglandin E1. Hyroxyapatite (HOAp), tribasic calcium phosphate, crystals induced typical signs of inflammation when injected into the footpad of the rat. Rats deficient in essential fatty acids (EFA) and thereby deficient in prostaglandins (PG) demonstrated less swelling than did normal controls. Similar reduced inflammatory swelling resulted from the use of HOAp crystals heated to 200 degrees C. The reduced inflammogenic effect of the heated crystal and the reduced response of the EFA-deficient rat were comparable and were corrected by adding PGE1. This PGE1 influence was of short duration in both test systems. A new theory of crystal induced inflammation is presented based on experiments using PGE1 with monosodium urate, calcium pyrophosphate and HOAp crystals. It is suggested that this inflammation is a membrane phenomenon related to synthesis or release of PG from cellular membranes stimulated by an electrostatic force from the crystals.", "PMID": 458785} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13431", "title": "Gastrointestinal involvement in rheumatoid arthritis: a biopsy study.", "content": "Gastric, colonic and rectal biopsies were obtained from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The histologic study demonstrated a greater incidence of pathological findings compared to normal subjects or in patients with gastrointestinal diseases. The histologic changes were characterized by partial or complete loss of superficial epithelium and glanmphocytes, plasma cells, granulocytes, and the presence of vasculitic lesions. These histologic findings suggest that a chronic rheumatoid inflammatory process may affect the gastrointestinal system, in keeping with the concept that rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease.", "contents": "Gastrointestinal involvement in rheumatoid arthritis: a biopsy study. Gastric, colonic and rectal biopsies were obtained from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The histologic study demonstrated a greater incidence of pathological findings compared to normal subjects or in patients with gastrointestinal diseases. The histologic changes were characterized by partial or complete loss of superficial epithelium and glanmphocytes, plasma cells, granulocytes, and the presence of vasculitic lesions. These histologic findings suggest that a chronic rheumatoid inflammatory process may affect the gastrointestinal system, in keeping with the concept that rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease.", "PMID": 458789} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13432", "title": "Manubrio-sternal joint subluxation in rheumatoid arthritis.", "content": "A patient is described in whom subluxation and erosions were present in the manubrio-sternal joint. The literature relating to the manubrio-sternal joint in rheumatoid arthritis is reviewed.", "contents": "Manubrio-sternal joint subluxation in rheumatoid arthritis. A patient is described in whom subluxation and erosions were present in the manubrio-sternal joint. The literature relating to the manubrio-sternal joint in rheumatoid arthritis is reviewed.", "PMID": 458790} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13433", "title": "Classification of drugs by discriminant analysis using fragment molecular connectivity values.", "content": "An investigation was made into the use of linear and quadratic discriminant analysis, along with K nearest-neighbor analysis, in the classification of a set of 51 compounds which were divided into five therapeutic categories. By superimposing each compound on a pattern structure, as first proposed by Cammarata, eight positions were assigned on the molecule. Each position was coded with the numerical value of a descriptor index. Relative molar refraction, which was the index used by Cammarata, was compared with a number of molecular connective indices. For each of the indices studied, it was found that only four of the eight positions contributed significantly to between-class differences. It was also found that first-order molecular connectivity, calculated as the sum of the contributions of each of the bonds joining a given position, resulted in consistently fewer misclassifications as compared with the other indices. Using first-order molecular connectivity, validation procedures were performed on the original set of compounds, on random samples drawn from this set, and on a set of ten compounds not included in the analysis. The results obtained were highly data dependent, but they, nevertheless, suggest that molecular connectivity indices should prove useful in structural classification procedures.", "contents": "Classification of drugs by discriminant analysis using fragment molecular connectivity values. An investigation was made into the use of linear and quadratic discriminant analysis, along with K nearest-neighbor analysis, in the classification of a set of 51 compounds which were divided into five therapeutic categories. By superimposing each compound on a pattern structure, as first proposed by Cammarata, eight positions were assigned on the molecule. Each position was coded with the numerical value of a descriptor index. Relative molar refraction, which was the index used by Cammarata, was compared with a number of molecular connective indices. For each of the indices studied, it was found that only four of the eight positions contributed significantly to between-class differences. It was also found that first-order molecular connectivity, calculated as the sum of the contributions of each of the bonds joining a given position, resulted in consistently fewer misclassifications as compared with the other indices. Using first-order molecular connectivity, validation procedures were performed on the original set of compounds, on random samples drawn from this set, and on a set of ten compounds not included in the analysis. The results obtained were highly data dependent, but they, nevertheless, suggest that molecular connectivity indices should prove useful in structural classification procedures.", "PMID": 458797} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13434", "title": "Computer-assisted structure-activity studies of chemical carcinogens. A heterogeneous data set.", "content": "A structure-activity relations study has been performed on a heterogeneous set of organic compounds to develop predictive ability for carcinogenic potential. The compounds employed came from more than 12 structural classes and numbered 130 carcinogens and 79 noncarcinogens. A set of 28 calculated molecular structure descriptors was identified that supported a linear discriminant function able to completely separate 192 compounds into the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic classes. A predictive ability of 90% for carcinogens and 78% for noncarcinogens was obtained in randomized testing. The results demonstrate that pattern-recognition methods can be used to analyze a diverse set of compounds each represented by calculated molecular structure descriptors for a common biological activity.", "contents": "Computer-assisted structure-activity studies of chemical carcinogens. A heterogeneous data set. A structure-activity relations study has been performed on a heterogeneous set of organic compounds to develop predictive ability for carcinogenic potential. The compounds employed came from more than 12 structural classes and numbered 130 carcinogens and 79 noncarcinogens. A set of 28 calculated molecular structure descriptors was identified that supported a linear discriminant function able to completely separate 192 compounds into the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic classes. A predictive ability of 90% for carcinogens and 78% for noncarcinogens was obtained in randomized testing. The results demonstrate that pattern-recognition methods can be used to analyze a diverse set of compounds each represented by calculated molecular structure descriptors for a common biological activity.", "PMID": 458798} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13435", "title": "IgA deficiency in juvenile chronic polyarthritis.", "content": "Immunoglobulins measured sequentially in 582 juvenile chronic polyarthritis patients revealed 12 with persistently absent IgA and 15 consistently below 20 mg/dl. There was an increased presentation with pauciarticular onset but systemic disease was the same as in the whole group. Follow-up showed that 9 of the 12 without IgA developed polyarthritis as have 11 of the 15 with low IgA; in contrast to previous studies, the disease has been severe in at least half of the patients.", "contents": "IgA deficiency in juvenile chronic polyarthritis. Immunoglobulins measured sequentially in 582 juvenile chronic polyarthritis patients revealed 12 with persistently absent IgA and 15 consistently below 20 mg/dl. There was an increased presentation with pauciarticular onset but systemic disease was the same as in the whole group. Follow-up showed that 9 of the 12 without IgA developed polyarthritis as have 11 of the 15 with low IgA; in contrast to previous studies, the disease has been severe in at least half of the patients.", "PMID": 458793} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13436", "title": "Amyloidosis in Reiter's syndrome.", "content": "A patient with a 27-year-history of chronic relapsing Reiter's syndrome who developed secondary amyloidosis is described. While there are only 2 reports of this association in the English literature, additional cases are suggested in the light of our present concepts. The patient represents the only case of clinically apparent secondary amyloidosis among 158 patients with HLA B27 associated arthropathies currently followed at our institution. Our patient's amyloidosis was treated for nearly 1 year with colchicine without response.", "contents": "Amyloidosis in Reiter's syndrome. A patient with a 27-year-history of chronic relapsing Reiter's syndrome who developed secondary amyloidosis is described. While there are only 2 reports of this association in the English literature, additional cases are suggested in the light of our present concepts. The patient represents the only case of clinically apparent secondary amyloidosis among 158 patients with HLA B27 associated arthropathies currently followed at our institution. Our patient's amyloidosis was treated for nearly 1 year with colchicine without response.", "PMID": 458794} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13437", "title": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships in 2,5-bis(1-aziridinyl)-p-benzoquinone derivatives against leukemia L-1210.", "content": "Antileukemic activities of more than 30 2,5-bis(1-aziridinyl)-p-benzoquinones (4) were correlated against well-defined physicochemical constants. These compounds were evaluated against lymphoid leukemia L1210 in BDF1 mice. The best equations obtained exhibited a linear dependence on the hydrophobic constant, pi. Characteristic aspects of the equations are that the larger the relative hydrophilicity of the drugs the stronger the antileukemic activity will be and that the more hydrophilic compounds have a greater chemotherapeutic index. Steric and electronic effects were also determined to be important. Based on the correlations, three compounds (11, 15 and 19) were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated.", "contents": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships in 2,5-bis(1-aziridinyl)-p-benzoquinone derivatives against leukemia L-1210. Antileukemic activities of more than 30 2,5-bis(1-aziridinyl)-p-benzoquinones (4) were correlated against well-defined physicochemical constants. These compounds were evaluated against lymphoid leukemia L1210 in BDF1 mice. The best equations obtained exhibited a linear dependence on the hydrophobic constant, pi. Characteristic aspects of the equations are that the larger the relative hydrophilicity of the drugs the stronger the antileukemic activity will be and that the more hydrophilic compounds have a greater chemotherapeutic index. Steric and electronic effects were also determined to be important. Based on the correlations, three compounds (11, 15 and 19) were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated.", "PMID": 458799} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13438", "title": "Fine detail radiography of the femoral head in osteoarthritis.", "content": "In an effort to define the relationship of articular cartilage to subchondral bond in osteoarthritis, fine detail radiography of over 600 femoral heads were examined. In general, cartilage loss was paralleled by subchondral bone thickening, but this was not a uniform finding. In the inferomedial part of the femoral head, thickening of the subchondral bone plate never occurred. If the cartilage thickening in this area exceeded 2 mm then a new subchondral bone plate was formed.", "contents": "Fine detail radiography of the femoral head in osteoarthritis. In an effort to define the relationship of articular cartilage to subchondral bond in osteoarthritis, fine detail radiography of over 600 femoral heads were examined. In general, cartilage loss was paralleled by subchondral bone thickening, but this was not a uniform finding. In the inferomedial part of the femoral head, thickening of the subchondral bone plate never occurred. If the cartilage thickening in this area exceeded 2 mm then a new subchondral bone plate was formed.", "PMID": 458791} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13439", "title": "Alkylating nucleosides 1. Synthesis and cytostatic activity of N-glycosyl(halomethyl)-1,2,3-triazoles. A new type of alkylating agent.", "content": "1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition of benzyl azide or peracetylated glucopyranosyl azides to propargyl halides or 1,4-dihalobutynes yielded 1-benzyl- or 1-glycosyl(halomethyl)-1,2,3-triazoles. Alkylating chloromethyl- bromomethyl- and iodomethyl-1,2,3-triazoles were also obtained from the corresponding hydroxymethyl derivatives by treatment with (C6H5)3P/CCl4, (C6H5O)3P/Br2, and (C6H5O)3P/I2, respectively. 1-Benzyl-4-(fluoromethyl)-1,2,3-triazole was obtained from 1-benzyl-4-(bromomethyl)-1,2,3-triazole by treatment with KF and 18-crown-6. Chloromethyl-, bromomethyl-, and iodomethyl-1,2,3-triazole derivatives inhibited the \"in vitro\" growth of HeLa cells. Some of these compounds increased the life span of mice bearing tumors.", "contents": "Alkylating nucleosides 1. Synthesis and cytostatic activity of N-glycosyl(halomethyl)-1,2,3-triazoles. A new type of alkylating agent. 1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition of benzyl azide or peracetylated glucopyranosyl azides to propargyl halides or 1,4-dihalobutynes yielded 1-benzyl- or 1-glycosyl(halomethyl)-1,2,3-triazoles. Alkylating chloromethyl- bromomethyl- and iodomethyl-1,2,3-triazoles were also obtained from the corresponding hydroxymethyl derivatives by treatment with (C6H5)3P/CCl4, (C6H5O)3P/Br2, and (C6H5O)3P/I2, respectively. 1-Benzyl-4-(fluoromethyl)-1,2,3-triazole was obtained from 1-benzyl-4-(bromomethyl)-1,2,3-triazole by treatment with KF and 18-crown-6. Chloromethyl-, bromomethyl-, and iodomethyl-1,2,3-triazole derivatives inhibited the \"in vitro\" growth of HeLa cells. Some of these compounds increased the life span of mice bearing tumors.", "PMID": 458800} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13440", "title": "Structural modification study of bis(substituted aminoalkylamino)anthraquinones. An evaluation of the relationship of the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain with antineoplastic activity.", "content": "Several anthraquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino, the [2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]amino, and the 2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy groups were prepared. Preparation of a lucanthone analogue, a 7-chloroquinoline derivative, and derivatives of naphthoquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain and related amino-substituted side chains was also conducted. It was found that the antineoplastic activity of anthraquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain is superior to those containing the tertiary amino side chain. However, the presence of the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino chain is an important, but not a sufficient, factor for good antineoplastic activity, as indicated by the lack of significant biological activity of other ring systems containing this side chain.", "contents": "Structural modification study of bis(substituted aminoalkylamino)anthraquinones. An evaluation of the relationship of the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain with antineoplastic activity. Several anthraquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino, the [2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]amino, and the 2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy groups were prepared. Preparation of a lucanthone analogue, a 7-chloroquinoline derivative, and derivatives of naphthoquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain and related amino-substituted side chains was also conducted. It was found that the antineoplastic activity of anthraquinones containing the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino side chain is superior to those containing the tertiary amino side chain. However, the presence of the [2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]ethyl]amino chain is an important, but not a sufficient, factor for good antineoplastic activity, as indicated by the lack of significant biological activity of other ring systems containing this side chain.", "PMID": 458801} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13441", "title": "Chronic lower leg ulceration in systemic lupus erythematosus.", "content": "Four patients with chronic recurrent deep lower leg ulcerations complicating systemic lupus erythematosus are reported. In each case, highly expressed systemic lupus erythematosus was evident and the ulcers were generally poorly responsive to therapeutic maneuvers and were severely debilitating. This lesion appears to be associated with a poor prognosis.", "contents": "Chronic lower leg ulceration in systemic lupus erythematosus. Four patients with chronic recurrent deep lower leg ulcerations complicating systemic lupus erythematosus are reported. In each case, highly expressed systemic lupus erythematosus was evident and the ulcers were generally poorly responsive to therapeutic maneuvers and were severely debilitating. This lesion appears to be associated with a poor prognosis.", "PMID": 458792} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13442", "title": "Synthesis and antitumor and antiviral activities of 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-iminopyrimidine and its derivatives.", "content": "1-beta-D-Arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-fluoropyrimidine (10), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-fluoropyrimidine 3'-phosphate (9), and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-chloropyrimidine (11) have been synthesized from 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-fluorocytosine (5), 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-fluorocytosine 3'-phosphate (4), and 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-chlorocytosine (6), respectively. 2,2'-Anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine 3'-phosphate (7), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4-(2H)-iminopyrimidine (13), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,3(2H)-iminopyrimidine 3'-phosphate (12), and compounds 4, 5, and 9 showed significant in vitro activity against a number of DNA viruses. Compounds 7 and 12 were also effective in vivo against type 1 herpes simplex virus. Compounds 7, 12, and 13 were extremely effective in the treatment of mice bearing leukemia L1210.", "contents": "Synthesis and antitumor and antiviral activities of 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-iminopyrimidine and its derivatives. 1-beta-D-Arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-fluoropyrimidine (10), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-fluoropyrimidine 3'-phosphate (9), and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4(2H)-imino-5-chloropyrimidine (11) have been synthesized from 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-fluorocytosine (5), 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-fluorocytosine 3'-phosphate (4), and 2,2'-anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-5-chlorocytosine (6), respectively. 2,2'-Anhydro-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine 3'-phosphate (7), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,4-(2H)-iminopyrimidine (13), 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-amino-1,3(2H)-iminopyrimidine 3'-phosphate (12), and compounds 4, 5, and 9 showed significant in vitro activity against a number of DNA viruses. Compounds 7 and 12 were also effective in vivo against type 1 herpes simplex virus. Compounds 7, 12, and 13 were extremely effective in the treatment of mice bearing leukemia L1210.", "PMID": 458802} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13443", "title": "Synthesis and platelet aggregation inhibitory activity of 6-isobutyl-alpha-methyl-3-pyridineacetic acid.", "content": "2-(4'-Isobutylphenyl)propionic acid, ibuprofen, is an antiinflammatory agent which possesses moderate platelet aggregation inhibitory activity. It was therefore of interest to determine what effect the replacement of the phenyl group of ibuprofen by a 3-pyridyl ring would have on platelet aggregation inhibitory activity. As a result, 6-isobutyl-alpha-methyl-o-pyridineacetic acid (7) and its 2-chloro analogue 13 were synthesized. The key step in the synthesis of 7 and 13 involved the oxidative rearrangement of enol ether 11 to the carboxylic ester 12 with thallium trinitrate. The entire sequences of reactions for the synthesis of compounds 7 and 13 are described in detail. Platelet aggregation inhibitory evaluation of 7 and 13 showed 7 to possess activity equivalent to ibuprofen; however, 13 was devoid of platelet aggregation inhibitory activity at an equivalent dose.", "contents": "Synthesis and platelet aggregation inhibitory activity of 6-isobutyl-alpha-methyl-3-pyridineacetic acid. 2-(4'-Isobutylphenyl)propionic acid, ibuprofen, is an antiinflammatory agent which possesses moderate platelet aggregation inhibitory activity. It was therefore of interest to determine what effect the replacement of the phenyl group of ibuprofen by a 3-pyridyl ring would have on platelet aggregation inhibitory activity. As a result, 6-isobutyl-alpha-methyl-o-pyridineacetic acid (7) and its 2-chloro analogue 13 were synthesized. The key step in the synthesis of 7 and 13 involved the oxidative rearrangement of enol ether 11 to the carboxylic ester 12 with thallium trinitrate. The entire sequences of reactions for the synthesis of compounds 7 and 13 are described in detail. Platelet aggregation inhibitory evaluation of 7 and 13 showed 7 to possess activity equivalent to ibuprofen; however, 13 was devoid of platelet aggregation inhibitory activity at an equivalent dose.", "PMID": 458803} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13444", "title": "Conformational analogy between beta-lactam antibiotics and tetrahedral transition states of a dipeptide.", "content": "The three-dimensional structures of various penicillins and cephalosporins are compared to the spatial characteristics of glycylglycine and the tetrahedral adducts formed when a nucleophile attaches to the amide carbonyl carbon of this dipeptide. The dipeptide is taken to model the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of the precursors of bacterial cell-wall peptidoglycan cross-links. Least-squares fitting shows that the spatial match between the dipeptide and the antibiotic depends on the thiazolidine or dihydrothiazine ring conformation, as well as the conformation of the dipeptide. In general, the tetrahedral adducts fit somewhat better than the parent dipeptide. A previously unobserved 3-cephem conformer is found by molecular mechanics calculations to be less stable than the usual crystallographically observed conformer.", "contents": "Conformational analogy between beta-lactam antibiotics and tetrahedral transition states of a dipeptide. The three-dimensional structures of various penicillins and cephalosporins are compared to the spatial characteristics of glycylglycine and the tetrahedral adducts formed when a nucleophile attaches to the amide carbonyl carbon of this dipeptide. The dipeptide is taken to model the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of the precursors of bacterial cell-wall peptidoglycan cross-links. Least-squares fitting shows that the spatial match between the dipeptide and the antibiotic depends on the thiazolidine or dihydrothiazine ring conformation, as well as the conformation of the dipeptide. In general, the tetrahedral adducts fit somewhat better than the parent dipeptide. A previously unobserved 3-cephem conformer is found by molecular mechanics calculations to be less stable than the usual crystallographically observed conformer.", "PMID": 458804} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13445", "title": "Synthesis and analgesic activities of some (4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)alkyl 2-aminobenzoates and 2-aminonicotinates.", "content": "A series of (4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)alkyl 2-aminobenzoates and 2-aminonicotinates has been prepared and screened for analgesic and antiinflammatory properties in mice and rats. The tabulated results reveal several 2-(4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)ethyl 2-(7- or 8-substituted 4-quinolinylamino)benzoates to be six to nine times more potent analgesics than the reference compounds (glafenine and aminopyrine) and to possess minor antinflammatory activity. Compound 45, 2-[4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]ethyl 2-[[7-(trifluoromethyl)-4-quinolinyl]amino]benzoate (antrafenine), showed marked analgesic activity, long duration of action, and excellent tolerance in pharmacological and toxicological studies, as well as in clinical trials.", "contents": "Synthesis and analgesic activities of some (4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)alkyl 2-aminobenzoates and 2-aminonicotinates. A series of (4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)alkyl 2-aminobenzoates and 2-aminonicotinates has been prepared and screened for analgesic and antiinflammatory properties in mice and rats. The tabulated results reveal several 2-(4-substituted phenyl-1-piperazinyl)ethyl 2-(7- or 8-substituted 4-quinolinylamino)benzoates to be six to nine times more potent analgesics than the reference compounds (glafenine and aminopyrine) and to possess minor antinflammatory activity. Compound 45, 2-[4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]ethyl 2-[[7-(trifluoromethyl)-4-quinolinyl]amino]benzoate (antrafenine), showed marked analgesic activity, long duration of action, and excellent tolerance in pharmacological and toxicological studies, as well as in clinical trials.", "PMID": 458805} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13446", "title": "Synthetic antagonists of in vivo responses by the rat uterus to oxytocin.", "content": "As part of a program in which we are attempting to synthesize in vivo antagonists of oxytocin, the following four analogues were synthesized and tested for antagonistic activities in rat uterus and rat vasopressor assay systems: [-(beta-mercapto-beta,beta-diethylpropionic acid), 4-threonine]oxytocin (1, dEt2TOT), [1-beta-mercapto-beta,beta-cyclopenta-methylenepropionic acid), 4-threonine]oxytocin [2, d(CH2)5TOT], [1-deaminopenicillamine,2-O-methyltyrosine]oxytocin [3, dPTyr(Me)OT], and [1-deaminopenicillamine,2-O-methyltyrosine,4-threonine]oxytocin [4, dPTyr(Me)TOT]. The required protected intermediates were synthesized by a combination of solid-phase peptide synthesis and by individual 8 + 1 couplings in solution. All four analogues antagonize the actions of oxytocin on the rat uterus (a) in the absence of Mg2+, (b) in the presence of 0.5 mM Mg2+, and (c) in situ. They exhibit, respectively, the following pA2 values in each of the assay systems a-c: (1) (a) 7.72 +/- 0.11, (b) 7.36 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.47 +/- 0.11; (2) (a) 7.91 +/- 0.13, (b) 7.81 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.94 +/- 0.11; (3) (a) 7.76 +/- 0.12, (b) 7.80 +/- 0.12, (c) 6.86 +/- 0.12; (4) (a) 7.64 +/- 0.14, (b) 7.79 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.84 +/- 0.10. They have the following antivasopressor pA2 values: (1) 6.30 +/- 0.13; (2) 5.86 +/- 0.03; (3) 7.59 +/- 0.05; (4) 7.32 +/- 0.04. Compounds 2-4 are among the most potent in vivo antagonists of oxytocin reported to date.", "contents": "Synthetic antagonists of in vivo responses by the rat uterus to oxytocin. As part of a program in which we are attempting to synthesize in vivo antagonists of oxytocin, the following four analogues were synthesized and tested for antagonistic activities in rat uterus and rat vasopressor assay systems: [-(beta-mercapto-beta,beta-diethylpropionic acid), 4-threonine]oxytocin (1, dEt2TOT), [1-beta-mercapto-beta,beta-cyclopenta-methylenepropionic acid), 4-threonine]oxytocin [2, d(CH2)5TOT], [1-deaminopenicillamine,2-O-methyltyrosine]oxytocin [3, dPTyr(Me)OT], and [1-deaminopenicillamine,2-O-methyltyrosine,4-threonine]oxytocin [4, dPTyr(Me)TOT]. The required protected intermediates were synthesized by a combination of solid-phase peptide synthesis and by individual 8 + 1 couplings in solution. All four analogues antagonize the actions of oxytocin on the rat uterus (a) in the absence of Mg2+, (b) in the presence of 0.5 mM Mg2+, and (c) in situ. They exhibit, respectively, the following pA2 values in each of the assay systems a-c: (1) (a) 7.72 +/- 0.11, (b) 7.36 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.47 +/- 0.11; (2) (a) 7.91 +/- 0.13, (b) 7.81 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.94 +/- 0.11; (3) (a) 7.76 +/- 0.12, (b) 7.80 +/- 0.12, (c) 6.86 +/- 0.12; (4) (a) 7.64 +/- 0.14, (b) 7.79 +/- 0.09, (c) 6.84 +/- 0.10. They have the following antivasopressor pA2 values: (1) 6.30 +/- 0.13; (2) 5.86 +/- 0.03; (3) 7.59 +/- 0.05; (4) 7.32 +/- 0.04. Compounds 2-4 are among the most potent in vivo antagonists of oxytocin reported to date.", "PMID": 458806} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13447", "title": "Synthesis and chemical carcinogen inhibitory activity of 2-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole.", "content": "The title compound 1 was selectively synthesized in its pure isomeric form by means of the hydroxyl-protecting reagent dimethyl-tert-butylchlorosilane. Exclusive silylation occurred at the less hindered hydroxyl group of 3. Dimethyl sulfate methylation of 4 gave 5 in excellent yield. Compound 1 was then obtained by acid hydrolysis of 5. The two BHA isomers, 1 and 2, were tested on their inhibitory effects toward benzo[alpha]pyrene-induced neoplasia in the forestomach of the ICR/Ha mouse. Both isomers, when added to the diet, reduced the number of mice with tumors and the number of tumors per mouse. Isomer 1, which has the less hindered free hydroxyl group, showed higher inhibitory effect in the present experimental model.", "contents": "Synthesis and chemical carcinogen inhibitory activity of 2-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole. The title compound 1 was selectively synthesized in its pure isomeric form by means of the hydroxyl-protecting reagent dimethyl-tert-butylchlorosilane. Exclusive silylation occurred at the less hindered hydroxyl group of 3. Dimethyl sulfate methylation of 4 gave 5 in excellent yield. Compound 1 was then obtained by acid hydrolysis of 5. The two BHA isomers, 1 and 2, were tested on their inhibitory effects toward benzo[alpha]pyrene-induced neoplasia in the forestomach of the ICR/Ha mouse. Both isomers, when added to the diet, reduced the number of mice with tumors and the number of tumors per mouse. Isomer 1, which has the less hindered free hydroxyl group, showed higher inhibitory effect in the present experimental model.", "PMID": 458807} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13448", "title": "Biomolecules bearing the S- or SeAsMe2 function: amino acid and steroid derivatives.", "content": "A series of molecules of the type GXAsMe2 have been synthesized in which X is S or Se and G is a moiety such as an amino acid, a di- or tripeptide, or a lipid. The compounds have been characterized by NMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Cysteine was found to react directly with dimethylarsinic acid to yield cystine and S-dimethylarsinocysteine (1). This reaction occurs also with other biomolecules containing thiol groups and raises serious questions concerning the use of cacodylate buffers in the study of enzyme kinetics and in sample preparation for electron microscopy. In the presence of dimethylchloroarsine and diethylamine, homocysteine thiolactone reacts to form both the dipeptide and the S-AsMe2 bond. Results of carcinostatic, bacteriostatic, and fungicidal testing of these compounds are reported. A hypothesis is advanced to explain the observed carcinostatic action of the dimethylarsino group.", "contents": "Biomolecules bearing the S- or SeAsMe2 function: amino acid and steroid derivatives. A series of molecules of the type GXAsMe2 have been synthesized in which X is S or Se and G is a moiety such as an amino acid, a di- or tripeptide, or a lipid. The compounds have been characterized by NMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Cysteine was found to react directly with dimethylarsinic acid to yield cystine and S-dimethylarsinocysteine (1). This reaction occurs also with other biomolecules containing thiol groups and raises serious questions concerning the use of cacodylate buffers in the study of enzyme kinetics and in sample preparation for electron microscopy. In the presence of dimethylchloroarsine and diethylamine, homocysteine thiolactone reacts to form both the dipeptide and the S-AsMe2 bond. Results of carcinostatic, bacteriostatic, and fungicidal testing of these compounds are reported. A hypothesis is advanced to explain the observed carcinostatic action of the dimethylarsino group.", "PMID": 458808} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13449", "title": "Platinum and palladium derivatives for chemotherapy studies.", "content": "Analogues of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) were prepared in which substituted pyridines (A), 1-(4-aminobenzylidene)indene (B), or DL-3,5,3'5'-tetraoxo-1,2-dipiperazinopropane (ICRF-159) was used in place of ammonia, and in some cases platinum(IV) or palladium(II) was used in place of the platinum(II). Both platinum complexes with ICRF-159 were active against leukemia 1210, but none of the others produced significant life extension following a single ip dose of 400 mg/kg. Attempts to prepare complexes of ICRF-159 with Zn(II), Mn(II), and Cr(III) were unsuccessful, but there were indications of complex formation with CuCl2 and with NiCl2.", "contents": "Platinum and palladium derivatives for chemotherapy studies. Analogues of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) were prepared in which substituted pyridines (A), 1-(4-aminobenzylidene)indene (B), or DL-3,5,3'5'-tetraoxo-1,2-dipiperazinopropane (ICRF-159) was used in place of ammonia, and in some cases platinum(IV) or palladium(II) was used in place of the platinum(II). Both platinum complexes with ICRF-159 were active against leukemia 1210, but none of the others produced significant life extension following a single ip dose of 400 mg/kg. Attempts to prepare complexes of ICRF-159 with Zn(II), Mn(II), and Cr(III) were unsuccessful, but there were indications of complex formation with CuCl2 and with NiCl2.", "PMID": 458809} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13450", "title": "Synthesis and biologic distribution of mercapto derivatives of palmitic acid.", "content": "Mercapto derivatives of palmitic acid are capable of binding 99mTc. Based on the hypothesis that 99mTc-labeled palmitic acid derivatives would behave biologically like palmitic acid and thus could be used as myocardial imaging agents, three mercaptopalmitic acid derivatives have been prepared. The synthesis of 2-mercaptopalmitic acid, 2-mercapto-1,16-hexadecanedioic acid, and 16-mercaptopalmitic acid was accomplished by reaction of the corresponding bromo compound with thiourea. The 35S-labeled compounds and [16-14C]palmitic acid were evaluated in rats with a heat-inflicted myocardial infarction to study the effect of the introduction of the mercapto group. The organ distribution of 2-[35S]mercaptopalmitic acid was most similar to that of [16-14C]palmitic acid.", "contents": "Synthesis and biologic distribution of mercapto derivatives of palmitic acid. Mercapto derivatives of palmitic acid are capable of binding 99mTc. Based on the hypothesis that 99mTc-labeled palmitic acid derivatives would behave biologically like palmitic acid and thus could be used as myocardial imaging agents, three mercaptopalmitic acid derivatives have been prepared. The synthesis of 2-mercaptopalmitic acid, 2-mercapto-1,16-hexadecanedioic acid, and 16-mercaptopalmitic acid was accomplished by reaction of the corresponding bromo compound with thiourea. The 35S-labeled compounds and [16-14C]palmitic acid were evaluated in rats with a heat-inflicted myocardial infarction to study the effect of the introduction of the mercapto group. The organ distribution of 2-[35S]mercaptopalmitic acid was most similar to that of [16-14C]palmitic acid.", "PMID": 458810} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13451", "title": "Synthesis of a proposed thymic factor.", "content": "Less than Glu-Ala-Lys-Ser-Gln-Gly-Gly-Ser-Asn, a proposed serum thymic factor, has been synthesized. The protected precursor, less than Glu-Ala-Lys(i-Noc)-ser(Bzl)-Gln-Gly-Gly-Ser(Bzl)-Asn, was prepared by a combination of solid phase and solution methods. The benzyl blocking groups were removed by HF and the i-Noc blocking group was removed by catalytic hydrogenation.", "contents": "Synthesis of a proposed thymic factor. Less than Glu-Ala-Lys-Ser-Gln-Gly-Gly-Ser-Asn, a proposed serum thymic factor, has been synthesized. The protected precursor, less than Glu-Ala-Lys(i-Noc)-ser(Bzl)-Gln-Gly-Gly-Ser(Bzl)-Asn, was prepared by a combination of solid phase and solution methods. The benzyl blocking groups were removed by HF and the i-Noc blocking group was removed by catalytic hydrogenation.", "PMID": 458811} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13452", "title": "Synthesis of hydroxy- and amino-substituted benzohydroxamic acids: inhibition of ribonucleotide reductase and antitumor activity.", "content": "Benzohydroxamic acids inhibit mammalian ribonucleotide reductase and exhibit antineoplastic activity in L1210 leukemic mice. Five new hydroxy- and amino-substituted benzohydroxamic acids (3,4- and 3,5-OH, 3,4-NH2, 2,3,4- and, 3,4,5-OH) were prepared and tested along with 12 previously reported benzohydroxamic acids (BHA) for enzyme inhibition and antitumor activity. The most potent enzyme inhibitor in this series was 2,3,4-OH-BHA (ID50 = 3.5 microM), which is 140 times more potent than hydroxyurea, but its toxicity limited the antitumor activity to a 30% increase in life span of L1210 bearing mice at 125 (mg/kg)/day ip for 8 days. The most effective antitumor agent in this series was 3,4-OH-BHA which prolonged the life span of L1210 bearing mice 103% at 600 (mg/kg)/day ip for 8 days.", "contents": "Synthesis of hydroxy- and amino-substituted benzohydroxamic acids: inhibition of ribonucleotide reductase and antitumor activity. Benzohydroxamic acids inhibit mammalian ribonucleotide reductase and exhibit antineoplastic activity in L1210 leukemic mice. Five new hydroxy- and amino-substituted benzohydroxamic acids (3,4- and 3,5-OH, 3,4-NH2, 2,3,4- and, 3,4,5-OH) were prepared and tested along with 12 previously reported benzohydroxamic acids (BHA) for enzyme inhibition and antitumor activity. The most potent enzyme inhibitor in this series was 2,3,4-OH-BHA (ID50 = 3.5 microM), which is 140 times more potent than hydroxyurea, but its toxicity limited the antitumor activity to a 30% increase in life span of L1210 bearing mice at 125 (mg/kg)/day ip for 8 days. The most effective antitumor agent in this series was 3,4-OH-BHA which prolonged the life span of L1210 bearing mice 103% at 600 (mg/kg)/day ip for 8 days.", "PMID": 458812} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13453", "title": "A structural modification study of procarbazine.", "content": "Eight analogues of the antineoplastic compound procarbazine were prepared by varying one portion of the molecule, keeping either the methylhydrazinomethyl or the N-(1-methylethyl)benzamido portion of procarbazine intact. Preliminary screening results indicated that none of the analogues tested in leukemias L1210 and P388 were as active as the original compound.", "contents": "A structural modification study of procarbazine. Eight analogues of the antineoplastic compound procarbazine were prepared by varying one portion of the molecule, keeping either the methylhydrazinomethyl or the N-(1-methylethyl)benzamido portion of procarbazine intact. Preliminary screening results indicated that none of the analogues tested in leukemias L1210 and P388 were as active as the original compound.", "PMID": 458813} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13454", "title": "1-(Dichloroacetyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-quinolinol esters. New potent antiamebic agents.", "content": "A series of 1-(dichloroacetyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-quinolinols and certain O-acyl derivatives thereof have been prepared and shown to be potent antiamebic agents in the Entamoeba criceti infected hamster model. Compounds were compared with etichlordifene and diloxamide and one of them, 1-(dichloroacetyl)-6-(2-furoyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline (4), was selected for human trial.", "contents": "1-(Dichloroacetyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-quinolinol esters. New potent antiamebic agents. A series of 1-(dichloroacetyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-quinolinols and certain O-acyl derivatives thereof have been prepared and shown to be potent antiamebic agents in the Entamoeba criceti infected hamster model. Compounds were compared with etichlordifene and diloxamide and one of them, 1-(dichloroacetyl)-6-(2-furoyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline (4), was selected for human trial.", "PMID": 458814} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13455", "title": "Intramolecular hydrogen bonding and conformational studies of bridged thebaine and oripavine opiate narcotic agonists and antagonists.", "content": "A conformational study of a series of oripavine derivatives is reported using the PCILO semiempirical quantum mechanical method. Low-energy conformers of carbinol substituents on C7-C19-R1R2OH are found with and without intramolecular hydrogen bonding to the C6-OCH3 group. The relative energies of these conformers depend on the R1 and R2 groups and the diastereoisomerism of the alcohol. The results are consistent with available NMR and IR studies of intramolecular hydrogen bonding and with crystallographic data. The importance of interaction between specific conformations of C19 carbinols and a lipophilic receptor site is suggested. A hypothesis is formulated to explain observed differences in pharmacological activity between diastereoisomers at C19 in the oripavine series and also to explain how these diastereoisomers alter the established pattern of N-substituent effects on relative agonist/antagonist potency found in other rigid opiates. By contrast, conformational studies of the C19 optical isomers of the C7-C8 etheno form of buprenorphine lead to the prediction of greatly reduced intrinsic potency differences between C19 diastereoisomers for this compound and for buprenorphine itself.", "contents": "Intramolecular hydrogen bonding and conformational studies of bridged thebaine and oripavine opiate narcotic agonists and antagonists. A conformational study of a series of oripavine derivatives is reported using the PCILO semiempirical quantum mechanical method. Low-energy conformers of carbinol substituents on C7-C19-R1R2OH are found with and without intramolecular hydrogen bonding to the C6-OCH3 group. The relative energies of these conformers depend on the R1 and R2 groups and the diastereoisomerism of the alcohol. The results are consistent with available NMR and IR studies of intramolecular hydrogen bonding and with crystallographic data. The importance of interaction between specific conformations of C19 carbinols and a lipophilic receptor site is suggested. A hypothesis is formulated to explain observed differences in pharmacological activity between diastereoisomers at C19 in the oripavine series and also to explain how these diastereoisomers alter the established pattern of N-substituent effects on relative agonist/antagonist potency found in other rigid opiates. By contrast, conformational studies of the C19 optical isomers of the C7-C8 etheno form of buprenorphine lead to the prediction of greatly reduced intrinsic potency differences between C19 diastereoisomers for this compound and for buprenorphine itself.", "PMID": 458815} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13456", "title": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships involving the inhibition of glycolic acid oxidase by derivatives of glycolic and glyoxylic acids.", "content": "The enzyme glycolic acid oxidase oxidizes glycolate to glyoxylate and glyoxylate to oxalate. Three series of compounds related to the natural substrates, substituted glycolic, oxyacetic, and glyoxylic acids, have been investigated as inhibitors of this enzyme using the techniques of regression analysis and quantitative structure-activity relationships. The best overall correlation with inhibitory potencies was found with the Hansch hydrophobic parameter pi. The classical electronic parameters sigmap, sigmam, F, and R performed poorly. For the substituted glyoxylic acids, a dummy parameter relating to the presence of a nucleophilic group in close proximity to the alpha-carbonyl of the glyoxylate group was found to be highly significant. The syntheses of six novel glycolic and glyoxylic acids are described.", "contents": "Quantitative structure-activity relationships involving the inhibition of glycolic acid oxidase by derivatives of glycolic and glyoxylic acids. The enzyme glycolic acid oxidase oxidizes glycolate to glyoxylate and glyoxylate to oxalate. Three series of compounds related to the natural substrates, substituted glycolic, oxyacetic, and glyoxylic acids, have been investigated as inhibitors of this enzyme using the techniques of regression analysis and quantitative structure-activity relationships. The best overall correlation with inhibitory potencies was found with the Hansch hydrophobic parameter pi. The classical electronic parameters sigmap, sigmam, F, and R performed poorly. For the substituted glyoxylic acids, a dummy parameter relating to the presence of a nucleophilic group in close proximity to the alpha-carbonyl of the glyoxylate group was found to be highly significant. The syntheses of six novel glycolic and glyoxylic acids are described.", "PMID": 458816} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13457", "title": "Quantitative structure-activity relationship of 5-(X-benzyl)-2,4-diaminopyrimidines inhibiting bovine liver dihydrofolate reductase.", "content": "The inhibitory effect for a set of 23 5-(X-benzyl)-2,4-diaminopyrimidines acting on bovine liver dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) had led to the following quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR): log 1/C = 0.62pi3 + 0.33epsilon sigma + 4.99, where r = 0.931 and s = 0.146. C in this expression is the molar concentration of inhibitor producing 50% inhibition, pi3 is the hydrophobic parameter for substituents on the 3 position of the phenyl moiety, and epsilon sigma is the the sum of the Hammett sigma constants for the 3, 4, and 5 substituents of the phenyl ring.", "contents": "Quantitative structure-activity relationship of 5-(X-benzyl)-2,4-diaminopyrimidines inhibiting bovine liver dihydrofolate reductase. The inhibitory effect for a set of 23 5-(X-benzyl)-2,4-diaminopyrimidines acting on bovine liver dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) had led to the following quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR): log 1/C = 0.62pi3 + 0.33epsilon sigma + 4.99, where r = 0.931 and s = 0.146. C in this expression is the molar concentration of inhibitor producing 50% inhibition, pi3 is the hydrophobic parameter for substituents on the 3 position of the phenyl moiety, and epsilon sigma is the the sum of the Hammett sigma constants for the 3, 4, and 5 substituents of the phenyl ring.", "PMID": 458817} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13458", "title": "Design of species- or isozyme-specific enzyme inhibitors. 1. Effect of thymidine substituents on affinity for the thymidine site of hamster cytoplasmic thymidine kinase.", "content": "5-(Ethylamino)- and 5-acetamido-2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphates were synthesized; the extent and concentration dependence of their inhibitory action on the title enzyme resembled that of the feedback inhibitor TTP. This and other findings provide a tentative indication that bulk tolerance near C-5 of the thymine ring may be more extensive at the TTP site than at the thymidine site. Enzyme-inhibitor dissociation constants (Ki values) were determined for thymidine derivatives monosubstituted at various positions. Competitive inhibition with respect to thymidine (indicative of substituent tolerance in the enzyme-thymidine complex) was produced by 3-amylthymidine (Ki = 65 muM), trans-5-bromo-6-ethoxy-5,6-dihydrothymidine diastereoisomers (Ki = 180 and 310 muM), 5'-C-(acetamidomethyl)- and 5-C-(propionamidomethyl)thymidine epimers (Ki range 65--1100 muM), 3'-acetamido- and 3'-(ethylthio)-3'-deoxythymidines (Ki = 2.5 mM and 12 muM, respectively), and certain 5'-(alkylamino)- and 5'-(alkylthio)-5'-deoxythymidines (Ki range 180--1200 muM). Evidence indicates that bulk tolerance at some, if not most, of the above atoms of thymidine is found in the enzyme-thymidine complexes of human and other mammalian thymidine kinases; attachment of suitable substituents to such atoms could, in principle, lead to thymidine site directed isozyme-specific inhibitors of human cytoplasmic thymidine kinase, which is a candidate target in the design of antineoplastic drugs.", "contents": "Design of species- or isozyme-specific enzyme inhibitors. 1. Effect of thymidine substituents on affinity for the thymidine site of hamster cytoplasmic thymidine kinase. 5-(Ethylamino)- and 5-acetamido-2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphates were synthesized; the extent and concentration dependence of their inhibitory action on the title enzyme resembled that of the feedback inhibitor TTP. This and other findings provide a tentative indication that bulk tolerance near C-5 of the thymine ring may be more extensive at the TTP site than at the thymidine site. Enzyme-inhibitor dissociation constants (Ki values) were determined for thymidine derivatives monosubstituted at various positions. Competitive inhibition with respect to thymidine (indicative of substituent tolerance in the enzyme-thymidine complex) was produced by 3-amylthymidine (Ki = 65 muM), trans-5-bromo-6-ethoxy-5,6-dihydrothymidine diastereoisomers (Ki = 180 and 310 muM), 5'-C-(acetamidomethyl)- and 5-C-(propionamidomethyl)thymidine epimers (Ki range 65--1100 muM), 3'-acetamido- and 3'-(ethylthio)-3'-deoxythymidines (Ki = 2.5 mM and 12 muM, respectively), and certain 5'-(alkylamino)- and 5'-(alkylthio)-5'-deoxythymidines (Ki range 180--1200 muM). Evidence indicates that bulk tolerance at some, if not most, of the above atoms of thymidine is found in the enzyme-thymidine complexes of human and other mammalian thymidine kinases; attachment of suitable substituents to such atoms could, in principle, lead to thymidine site directed isozyme-specific inhibitors of human cytoplasmic thymidine kinase, which is a candidate target in the design of antineoplastic drugs.", "PMID": 458818} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13459", "title": "S-2,omega-Diaminoalkyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates as antiradiation agents.", "content": "To enable further structure-activity comparisons among radioprotective phosphorothioates, S-2,omega-diaminoalkyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates were synthesized from L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid, L-ornithine, L-lysine, and DL-2,7-diaminoheptanoic acid as homologues of S-2,3-diaminopropyl dihydrogen phosphorothioate (4) and as isomeric analogues of S-2-[(omega-aminoalkyl)amino]ethyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates (e.g., 1). The preferred route that evolved from exploratory trials retained optical activity and involved the reduction of methyl 2,omega-bis(benzoylamino)alkanoates with lithium borohydride, debenzoylation-bromodehydroxylation, and reaction of the resulting 1-(bromomethyl)-1,omega-alkanediamine dihydrobromides with trisodium phosphorothioate. The products of an alternative route that involved the reduction of phthaloylated intermediates with sodium borohydride were racemic. Exploratory conversions of N-(omega-alkenyl)phthalimides failed to provide suitable precursors of the target compounds. In terms of a protective index, these homologues were significantly more radioprotective than the parent phosphorothioate 4 when administered intraperitoneally to mice prior to whole-body gamma irradiation. The homologues derived from L-lysine also showed good peroral activity. No apparent difference was observed in the protection afforded by optically active homologues and the corresponding racemates.", "contents": "S-2,omega-Diaminoalkyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates as antiradiation agents. To enable further structure-activity comparisons among radioprotective phosphorothioates, S-2,omega-diaminoalkyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates were synthesized from L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid, L-ornithine, L-lysine, and DL-2,7-diaminoheptanoic acid as homologues of S-2,3-diaminopropyl dihydrogen phosphorothioate (4) and as isomeric analogues of S-2-[(omega-aminoalkyl)amino]ethyl dihydrogen phosphorothioates (e.g., 1). The preferred route that evolved from exploratory trials retained optical activity and involved the reduction of methyl 2,omega-bis(benzoylamino)alkanoates with lithium borohydride, debenzoylation-bromodehydroxylation, and reaction of the resulting 1-(bromomethyl)-1,omega-alkanediamine dihydrobromides with trisodium phosphorothioate. The products of an alternative route that involved the reduction of phthaloylated intermediates with sodium borohydride were racemic. Exploratory conversions of N-(omega-alkenyl)phthalimides failed to provide suitable precursors of the target compounds. In terms of a protective index, these homologues were significantly more radioprotective than the parent phosphorothioate 4 when administered intraperitoneally to mice prior to whole-body gamma irradiation. The homologues derived from L-lysine also showed good peroral activity. No apparent difference was observed in the protection afforded by optically active homologues and the corresponding racemates.", "PMID": 458819} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13460", "title": "Studies on biologically active nucleosides and nucleotides. 5. Synthesis and antitumor activity of some 2,2'-anhydro-1-(3',5'-di-O-acyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine salts and 2,2'-anhydro-1-(3'-O-acyl-beta-D-arabinofuranoxyl)cytosine 5'-phosphates.", "content": "A series of 3',5'-diesters of a 2,2'-anhydro-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine salt bearing functional substituents on the ester side chains (4--16) have been synthesized. The synthesis of these diesters involved the reaction between cytidine and the corresponding acid anhydride or acid chloride in the presence of boron trifluoride etherate. Similar reaction of bis(cytidine 5'-)suberate (21) with pivaloyl chloride gave bis[2,2'-anhydro-1-(3'-O-pivaloyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine 5'-]suberate dihydrochloride (22). The reaction could also be extended to a one-step synthesis of 3'-esters of 2,2'-anhydro-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine 5'-phosphate (24) from 5'-cytidylic acid. These compounds have been examined for antitumor activity against L1210 leukemia in BDF1 mice. The diesters with a long-chain carboxylic acid (4c, 7c, 12, and 24d) showed high activity when administered intraperitoneally. The compound 24d exhibited moderate activity when administered orally.", "contents": "Studies on biologically active nucleosides and nucleotides. 5. Synthesis and antitumor activity of some 2,2'-anhydro-1-(3',5'-di-O-acyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine salts and 2,2'-anhydro-1-(3'-O-acyl-beta-D-arabinofuranoxyl)cytosine 5'-phosphates. A series of 3',5'-diesters of a 2,2'-anhydro-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine salt bearing functional substituents on the ester side chains (4--16) have been synthesized. The synthesis of these diesters involved the reaction between cytidine and the corresponding acid anhydride or acid chloride in the presence of boron trifluoride etherate. Similar reaction of bis(cytidine 5'-)suberate (21) with pivaloyl chloride gave bis[2,2'-anhydro-1-(3'-O-pivaloyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine 5'-]suberate dihydrochloride (22). The reaction could also be extended to a one-step synthesis of 3'-esters of 2,2'-anhydro-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine 5'-phosphate (24) from 5'-cytidylic acid. These compounds have been examined for antitumor activity against L1210 leukemia in BDF1 mice. The diesters with a long-chain carboxylic acid (4c, 7c, 12, and 24d) showed high activity when administered intraperitoneally. The compound 24d exhibited moderate activity when administered orally.", "PMID": 458820} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13461", "title": "Chemical and biological studies of 1-(2,5-dihydroxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane, an analogue of 6-hydroxydopamine.", "content": "Autoxidation of the bis(O-demethyl)-p-hydroquinone metabolite of the psychotomimetic amine 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) at pH 7.4 leads exclusively to a bicyclic imino quinone. This imino quinone is a good alkylating agent, forming covalent adducts via 1,4 addition to thiols. The autoxidation appears to be dependent on trace metal catalysis and is dramatically inhibited by components of the 10000g supernatant fraction of rabbit liver homogenates. Incubation of tritium-labeled hydroquinone with bovine serum albumin under oxidizing conditions leads to significant amounts of nonextractable radioactivity which presumably is dependent on imino quinone alkylation of nucleophilic functionalities present on macromolecules. Incubation of tritium-labeled DOM with rabbit microsomes in the presence of NADPH leads to irreversible binding of the label to macromolecular components of the microsomes. Since this binding is NADPH dependent, it is likely that metabolic conversion of DOM to the hydroquinone is involved. The imino quinone oxidation product is highly lypophilic and is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Intravenous administration of tritium-labeled imino quinone to rats resulted in significant nonextractable radioactivity in brain tissue. These properties of the hydroquinone metabolite parallel those reported for the structurally related sympatholytic compound 6-hydroxydopamine and have led to the hypothesis that the psychotomimetic properties of DOM may be mediated through 6-hydroxydopamine-type interactions of the hydroquinone with important macromolecules in the brain.", "contents": "Chemical and biological studies of 1-(2,5-dihydroxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane, an analogue of 6-hydroxydopamine. Autoxidation of the bis(O-demethyl)-p-hydroquinone metabolite of the psychotomimetic amine 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) at pH 7.4 leads exclusively to a bicyclic imino quinone. This imino quinone is a good alkylating agent, forming covalent adducts via 1,4 addition to thiols. The autoxidation appears to be dependent on trace metal catalysis and is dramatically inhibited by components of the 10000g supernatant fraction of rabbit liver homogenates. Incubation of tritium-labeled hydroquinone with bovine serum albumin under oxidizing conditions leads to significant amounts of nonextractable radioactivity which presumably is dependent on imino quinone alkylation of nucleophilic functionalities present on macromolecules. Incubation of tritium-labeled DOM with rabbit microsomes in the presence of NADPH leads to irreversible binding of the label to macromolecular components of the microsomes. Since this binding is NADPH dependent, it is likely that metabolic conversion of DOM to the hydroquinone is involved. The imino quinone oxidation product is highly lypophilic and is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Intravenous administration of tritium-labeled imino quinone to rats resulted in significant nonextractable radioactivity in brain tissue. These properties of the hydroquinone metabolite parallel those reported for the structurally related sympatholytic compound 6-hydroxydopamine and have led to the hypothesis that the psychotomimetic properties of DOM may be mediated through 6-hydroxydopamine-type interactions of the hydroquinone with important macromolecules in the brain.", "PMID": 458821} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13462", "title": "Synthesis and antihypertensive activity of novel 3-hydrazino-5-phenyl-1,2,4-triazines.", "content": "In an effort to develop antihypertensive agents with peripheral vasodilator activity, a series of 40 novel 3-hydrazino-5-phenyl-1,2,4-triazines (II) were synthesized and evaluated in the spontaneously hypertensive rat assay (SHR assay). Based on the performance of the structurally related standard, hydralazine (I), 15 triazines were active. Thirteen of these hypotensive triazines possessed LD50 values in the mouse greater than I (LD50 = 100 mg/kg); only one active triazine had an LD50 value greater than 300 mg/kg (11d). Four asymmetric triazines had moderate antihypertensive activity and LD50 values greater than 300 mg/kg (6b, 7c, 8f, and 9g). Based on the relationship between toxicity and antihypertensive activity, three triazines (8f, 9g, and 11d) were chosen for dose-responses studies in the SHR assay. None were as efficacious as I, but all three were less toxic, resulting in similar therapeutic indices relative to I.", "contents": "Synthesis and antihypertensive activity of novel 3-hydrazino-5-phenyl-1,2,4-triazines. In an effort to develop antihypertensive agents with peripheral vasodilator activity, a series of 40 novel 3-hydrazino-5-phenyl-1,2,4-triazines (II) were synthesized and evaluated in the spontaneously hypertensive rat assay (SHR assay). Based on the performance of the structurally related standard, hydralazine (I), 15 triazines were active. Thirteen of these hypotensive triazines possessed LD50 values in the mouse greater than I (LD50 = 100 mg/kg); only one active triazine had an LD50 value greater than 300 mg/kg (11d). Four asymmetric triazines had moderate antihypertensive activity and LD50 values greater than 300 mg/kg (6b, 7c, 8f, and 9g). Based on the relationship between toxicity and antihypertensive activity, three triazines (8f, 9g, and 11d) were chosen for dose-responses studies in the SHR assay. None were as efficacious as I, but all three were less toxic, resulting in similar therapeutic indices relative to I.", "PMID": 458822} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13463", "title": "Application of quantitative structure-activity relationships in the development of the antiallergic pyranenamines.", "content": "QSAR techniques played a major role in development of the antiallergic pyranenamines (I). Graphical analysis of data resulting from an unsuccessful Topliss approach suggested that increased substituent hydrophilicity might enhance potency. The 3-NHAc-4-OH derivative which first resulted was an order of magnitude more potent than any preceding series member, and its deacylated congenar is clinical candidate SK&F 78729 (R1 = -NH2, R2 - OH, R3 = H). Further pursuit of hydrophilicity and other strategies suggested by multiple regression yielded 98 pyranenamines, the most active [R1 = R3 = NHCO(CHOH)2H, R2 = H] being 1000 times more potent than any original series member.", "contents": "Application of quantitative structure-activity relationships in the development of the antiallergic pyranenamines. QSAR techniques played a major role in development of the antiallergic pyranenamines (I). Graphical analysis of data resulting from an unsuccessful Topliss approach suggested that increased substituent hydrophilicity might enhance potency. The 3-NHAc-4-OH derivative which first resulted was an order of magnitude more potent than any preceding series member, and its deacylated congenar is clinical candidate SK&F 78729 (R1 = -NH2, R2 - OH, R3 = H). Further pursuit of hydrophilicity and other strategies suggested by multiple regression yielded 98 pyranenamines, the most active [R1 = R3 = NHCO(CHOH)2H, R2 = H] being 1000 times more potent than any original series member.", "PMID": 458823} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13464", "title": "Preparation and purification of L-(+/-)-5-formyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolic acid.", "content": "Reinvestigation of the conversion of folic acid to leucovorin [L-(+/-)-5-CHO-THF] led to improved methods for the synthesis of this drug, which is suitable for clinical use. Also, methods were developed for the chromatographic and nonchromatographic purification of less pure samples of L-(+/-)-5-CHO-THF.", "contents": "Preparation and purification of L-(+/-)-5-formyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolic acid. Reinvestigation of the conversion of folic acid to leucovorin [L-(+/-)-5-CHO-THF] led to improved methods for the synthesis of this drug, which is suitable for clinical use. Also, methods were developed for the chromatographic and nonchromatographic purification of less pure samples of L-(+/-)-5-CHO-THF.", "PMID": 458824} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13465", "title": "Synthesis and antibacterial activity of 2-oxocephalosporins.", "content": "The first reported synthesis of 2-oxocephalosporin derivatives has been achieved via ozonolysis of the corresponding 2-methylenecephalosporins. The new cephalosporin derivatives showed some antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, but the 2-oxo analogue of cephalothin was much less active than cephalothin itself.", "contents": "Synthesis and antibacterial activity of 2-oxocephalosporins. The first reported synthesis of 2-oxocephalosporin derivatives has been achieved via ozonolysis of the corresponding 2-methylenecephalosporins. The new cephalosporin derivatives showed some antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, but the 2-oxo analogue of cephalothin was much less active than cephalothin itself.", "PMID": 458825} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13466", "title": "Synthesis of imidazolidinediones and oxazolidinediones from cyclization of propargylureas and propargyl carbamates.", "content": "A synthetic procedure for the preparation of imidazolidinediones by the base-catalyzed cyclization of propargylureas is described. This method appears to be the most versatile way of obtaining these compounds containing tertiary groups substituted on ring-nitrogen number 3. One of these derivatives, 3-tert-butyl-5,5-dimethyl-2,4-imidazolidinedione (1a), has shown a moderate level of subcutaneous metrazole seizure threshold activity (scMet indicates potential for control of petit mal epileptic seizures) in control screens on mice, as determined by the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke.", "contents": "Synthesis of imidazolidinediones and oxazolidinediones from cyclization of propargylureas and propargyl carbamates. A synthetic procedure for the preparation of imidazolidinediones by the base-catalyzed cyclization of propargylureas is described. This method appears to be the most versatile way of obtaining these compounds containing tertiary groups substituted on ring-nitrogen number 3. One of these derivatives, 3-tert-butyl-5,5-dimethyl-2,4-imidazolidinedione (1a), has shown a moderate level of subcutaneous metrazole seizure threshold activity (scMet indicates potential for control of petit mal epileptic seizures) in control screens on mice, as determined by the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke.", "PMID": 458826} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13467", "title": "Blood glucose lowering sulfonamides with asymmetric carbon atoms. 3. Related N-substituted carbamoylbenzoic acids.", "content": "Both enantiomers of 4-N-[1-(5-Fluoro-2-methoxyphenyl)ethyl]carbamoylmethylbenzoic acid display hypoglycemic activity. The more potent (S) enantiomer is approximately equipotent with the acylaminoethylbenzoic acids of the type HB 699 (Figure 1; Table I). Observations are given that suggest that these benzoic acids act at the same receptor as the hypoglycemic sulfonylureas and sulfonylaminopyrimidines and further that this receptor includes important binding sites.", "contents": "Blood glucose lowering sulfonamides with asymmetric carbon atoms. 3. Related N-substituted carbamoylbenzoic acids. Both enantiomers of 4-N-[1-(5-Fluoro-2-methoxyphenyl)ethyl]carbamoylmethylbenzoic acid display hypoglycemic activity. The more potent (S) enantiomer is approximately equipotent with the acylaminoethylbenzoic acids of the type HB 699 (Figure 1; Table I). Observations are given that suggest that these benzoic acids act at the same receptor as the hypoglycemic sulfonylureas and sulfonylaminopyrimidines and further that this receptor includes important binding sites.", "PMID": 458827} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13468", "title": "Genetic heterogeneity in osteogenesis imperfecta.", "content": "An epidemiological and genetical study of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) in Victoria, Australia confirmed that there are at least four distinct syndromes at present called OI. The largest group of patients showed autosomal dominant inheritance of osteoporosis leading to fractures and distinctly blue sclerae. A large proportion of adults had presenile deafness or a family history of presenile conductive hearing loss. A second group, who comprised the majority of newborns with neonatal fractures, all died before or soon after birth. These had characteristic broad, crumpled femora and beaded ribs in skeletal x-rays. Autosomal recessive inheritance was likely for some, if not all, of these cases. A third group, two thirds of whom had fractures at birth, showed severe progressive deformity of limbs and spine. The density of scleral blueness appeared less than that seen in the first group of patients and approximated that seen in normal children and adults. Moreover, the blueness appeared to decrease with age. All patients in this group were sporadic cases. The mode of inheritance was not resolved by the study, but it is likely that the group is heterogeneous with both dominant and recessive genotypes responsible for the syndrome. The fourth group of patients showed dominant inheritance of osteoporosis leading to fractures, with variable deformity of long bones, but normal sclerae.", "contents": "Genetic heterogeneity in osteogenesis imperfecta. An epidemiological and genetical study of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) in Victoria, Australia confirmed that there are at least four distinct syndromes at present called OI. The largest group of patients showed autosomal dominant inheritance of osteoporosis leading to fractures and distinctly blue sclerae. A large proportion of adults had presenile deafness or a family history of presenile conductive hearing loss. A second group, who comprised the majority of newborns with neonatal fractures, all died before or soon after birth. These had characteristic broad, crumpled femora and beaded ribs in skeletal x-rays. Autosomal recessive inheritance was likely for some, if not all, of these cases. A third group, two thirds of whom had fractures at birth, showed severe progressive deformity of limbs and spine. The density of scleral blueness appeared less than that seen in the first group of patients and approximated that seen in normal children and adults. Moreover, the blueness appeared to decrease with age. All patients in this group were sporadic cases. The mode of inheritance was not resolved by the study, but it is likely that the group is heterogeneous with both dominant and recessive genotypes responsible for the syndrome. The fourth group of patients showed dominant inheritance of osteoporosis leading to fractures, with variable deformity of long bones, but normal sclerae.", "PMID": 458828} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13469", "title": "Cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland.", "content": "In a retrospective study of cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland for 1961 to 1971, the incidence was 1 in 1857 livebirths, which is comparable to figures from Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.", "contents": "Cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland. In a retrospective study of cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland for 1961 to 1971, the incidence was 1 in 1857 livebirths, which is comparable to figures from Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.", "PMID": 458829} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13470", "title": "Family evaluations in acute intermittent porphyria using red cell uroporphyrinogen I synthetase.", "content": "Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a primary disorder of haem biosynthesis that is chemically characterised by raised urinary porphobilinogen (PBG). A defect in the biochemical pathway at the step of PBG conversion to uroporphyrinogen has been shown to be a result of a partial deficiency of the enzyme uroporphyrinogen I synthetase (uro I syn). The ascertainment rate of latent AIP (that is, chemically manifest but clinically asymptomatic) was examined in 185 individuals from 12 AIP kindreds using three parameters: red cell uro I syn, quantitative urinary PBG, and pedigree analysis with respect to uro I syn. Approximately 80% of individuals could be assigned as normal or latent AIP on the basis of the uro I syn assay alone. The remaining 20% could not be assigned because of an intermediate range of activity for the red cell assay in which the diagnosis cannot be certain. When the pedigree was used in the evaluation of the uro I syn data, the number of uncertain individuals, with respect to AIP, decreased to 10%. The enzyme method detected latent AIP in 37.5% of blood relatives, whereas quantitative urinary PBG alone detected only 15.2%. The pattern of inheritance for the uro I syn deficiency is consistent with Mendelian dominant inheritance, and it is likely that it is the basic inherited defect in AIP.", "contents": "Family evaluations in acute intermittent porphyria using red cell uroporphyrinogen I synthetase. Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a primary disorder of haem biosynthesis that is chemically characterised by raised urinary porphobilinogen (PBG). A defect in the biochemical pathway at the step of PBG conversion to uroporphyrinogen has been shown to be a result of a partial deficiency of the enzyme uroporphyrinogen I synthetase (uro I syn). The ascertainment rate of latent AIP (that is, chemically manifest but clinically asymptomatic) was examined in 185 individuals from 12 AIP kindreds using three parameters: red cell uro I syn, quantitative urinary PBG, and pedigree analysis with respect to uro I syn. Approximately 80% of individuals could be assigned as normal or latent AIP on the basis of the uro I syn assay alone. The remaining 20% could not be assigned because of an intermediate range of activity for the red cell assay in which the diagnosis cannot be certain. When the pedigree was used in the evaluation of the uro I syn data, the number of uncertain individuals, with respect to AIP, decreased to 10%. The enzyme method detected latent AIP in 37.5% of blood relatives, whereas quantitative urinary PBG alone detected only 15.2%. The pattern of inheritance for the uro I syn deficiency is consistent with Mendelian dominant inheritance, and it is likely that it is the basic inherited defect in AIP.", "PMID": 458830} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13471", "title": "Achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia. Comments on frequency, mutation rate, and radiological features in skull and spine.", "content": "An attempt was made to ascertain all the dwarfs in the State of Victoria. The incidence of achondroplasia proved to be approximately 1 in 26,000 live births in the period 1969 to 1975 when ascertainment was nearly complete. This indicates a mutation rate of 1.93 X 10(-5) per generation in this locus. Paternal age was shown to influence mutation. Ascertainment in earlier years of the study was low despite the very great effort made to find all cases. Patients with hypochondroplasia were particularly difficult to find. However, 25 cases were found for study. Overlap between hypochondroplasia and achondroplasia was found in all features except the facial appearance (which was the basis of definition). Achondroplasia was more severe in all regards, but some individuals with hypochondroplasia were very short and some had extreme degrees of spinal canal stenosis. The classical measurements used to describe the skull changes in acondroplasia failed to distinguish this condition from hypochondroplasia. More efficient indices were devised, but visual assessment of the size of the facial region compared to that of the cranial valult proved more reliable than any index. The clinical distinction based upon facial appearance remains the arbitrary basis of definition.", "contents": "Achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia. Comments on frequency, mutation rate, and radiological features in skull and spine. An attempt was made to ascertain all the dwarfs in the State of Victoria. The incidence of achondroplasia proved to be approximately 1 in 26,000 live births in the period 1969 to 1975 when ascertainment was nearly complete. This indicates a mutation rate of 1.93 X 10(-5) per generation in this locus. Paternal age was shown to influence mutation. Ascertainment in earlier years of the study was low despite the very great effort made to find all cases. Patients with hypochondroplasia were particularly difficult to find. However, 25 cases were found for study. Overlap between hypochondroplasia and achondroplasia was found in all features except the facial appearance (which was the basis of definition). Achondroplasia was more severe in all regards, but some individuals with hypochondroplasia were very short and some had extreme degrees of spinal canal stenosis. The classical measurements used to describe the skull changes in acondroplasia failed to distinguish this condition from hypochondroplasia. More efficient indices were devised, but visual assessment of the size of the facial region compared to that of the cranial valult proved more reliable than any index. The clinical distinction based upon facial appearance remains the arbitrary basis of definition.", "PMID": 458831} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13472", "title": "Camptodactyly, cleft palate, and club foot (the Gordon syndrome). A report of a large pedigree.", "content": "A second family is described in which camptodactyly, club foot, and cleft palate (the Gordon syndrome) is transmitted in a pattern consistent with autosomal dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance and variable expressivity. Penetrance appears to be more reduced in females than in males, and cleft palate is the least frequently manifested trait.", "contents": "Camptodactyly, cleft palate, and club foot (the Gordon syndrome). A report of a large pedigree. A second family is described in which camptodactyly, club foot, and cleft palate (the Gordon syndrome) is transmitted in a pattern consistent with autosomal dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance and variable expressivity. Penetrance appears to be more reduced in females than in males, and cleft palate is the least frequently manifested trait.", "PMID": 458832} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13473", "title": "Two cases with different deletions of the long arm of chromosome 7.", "content": "Two mentally and physically retarded girls, one with an interstitial deletion 7 (pter leads to q21::q32 leads to qter), and the other with an interstitial deletion 7 (pter leads to q11::q22 leads to qter), are described. Their clinical features are compared with those of 11 earlier reported cases with a deletion 7q. The Hageman factor, the locus of which is assigned to the distal part of 7q, was in both cases within normal limits. The data available do not justify the delineation of a specific clinical syndrome.", "contents": "Two cases with different deletions of the long arm of chromosome 7. Two mentally and physically retarded girls, one with an interstitial deletion 7 (pter leads to q21::q32 leads to qter), and the other with an interstitial deletion 7 (pter leads to q11::q22 leads to qter), are described. Their clinical features are compared with those of 11 earlier reported cases with a deletion 7q. The Hageman factor, the locus of which is assigned to the distal part of 7q, was in both cases within normal limits. The data available do not justify the delineation of a specific clinical syndrome.", "PMID": 458833} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13474", "title": "Trisomy 13 and extended survival.", "content": "A 9-year-old boy with classical clinical features of trisomy 13 (Patau's syndrome), with confirmation on chromosome analysis of blood and skin, is reported in view of his relative longevity.", "contents": "Trisomy 13 and extended survival. A 9-year-old boy with classical clinical features of trisomy 13 (Patau's syndrome), with confirmation on chromosome analysis of blood and skin, is reported in view of his relative longevity.", "PMID": 458834} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13475", "title": "Anencephaly with diaphragmatic hernia in sibs.", "content": "Two sibs who both had anencephaly and diaphragmatic hernia are reported. The type of diaphragmatic defect seen in anencephaly may differ from the defect seen in other babies. It is important to perform a necropsy in anencephaly.", "contents": "Anencephaly with diaphragmatic hernia in sibs. Two sibs who both had anencephaly and diaphragmatic hernia are reported. The type of diaphragmatic defect seen in anencephaly may differ from the defect seen in other babies. It is important to perform a necropsy in anencephaly.", "PMID": 458835} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13476", "title": "Symphalangism, short stature, skeletal anomalies, and accessory testis: a new malformation syndrome.", "content": "A 17-year-old Jewish Sephardi male is described with symphalangism, short stature, multiple skeletal anomalies, and an accessory testis, which appears to be a new malformation syndrome of possible genetic aetiology.", "contents": "Symphalangism, short stature, skeletal anomalies, and accessory testis: a new malformation syndrome. A 17-year-old Jewish Sephardi male is described with symphalangism, short stature, multiple skeletal anomalies, and an accessory testis, which appears to be a new malformation syndrome of possible genetic aetiology.", "PMID": 458836} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13477", "title": "Gastric adenocarcinoma due to ataxia-telangiectasia (Louis-Bar syndrome).", "content": "A 26-year-old male with ataxia-telangiectasia died with a gastric adenocarcinoma. Malignancy is a recognised complication of this condition, the majority of cases being reticuloendothelial. There have been three reports of gastric adenocarcinoma associated with ataxia-telangiectasia; this, however, is the first in British published reports.", "contents": "Gastric adenocarcinoma due to ataxia-telangiectasia (Louis-Bar syndrome). A 26-year-old male with ataxia-telangiectasia died with a gastric adenocarcinoma. Malignancy is a recognised complication of this condition, the majority of cases being reticuloendothelial. There have been three reports of gastric adenocarcinoma associated with ataxia-telangiectasia; this, however, is the first in British published reports.", "PMID": 458837} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13478", "title": "Isolation and characterisation of bacteria from abscesses in the subcutis of cats.", "content": "Thirty-six closed abcesses in the subcutis of cats were examined. Of 168 bacterial strains isolated, 121(72%) were anaerobes and 47 (28%) were facultative anaerobes. Twenty-six abscesses contained mixtures of facultative anaerobes and anaerobes, six contained anaerobes only and four contained facultative anaerobes only. Bacteriodes was the genus most commonly isolated (28.6% of all isolates) followed by Fusobacterium (19.0%) and Pasteurella (multocida) (13.1%). Peptostreptococcus anaerobius was the most commonly isolated anaerobic species (13.2% of anaerobic isolates and 9.5% of all isolates)and Past, multocida was the most commonly isolated facultative anaerobe (46.8%; 13.1%of all isolates).", "contents": "Isolation and characterisation of bacteria from abscesses in the subcutis of cats. Thirty-six closed abcesses in the subcutis of cats were examined. Of 168 bacterial strains isolated, 121(72%) were anaerobes and 47 (28%) were facultative anaerobes. Twenty-six abscesses contained mixtures of facultative anaerobes and anaerobes, six contained anaerobes only and four contained facultative anaerobes only. Bacteriodes was the genus most commonly isolated (28.6% of all isolates) followed by Fusobacterium (19.0%) and Pasteurella (multocida) (13.1%). Peptostreptococcus anaerobius was the most commonly isolated anaerobic species (13.2% of anaerobic isolates and 9.5% of all isolates)and Past, multocida was the most commonly isolated facultative anaerobe (46.8%; 13.1%of all isolates).", "PMID": 458840} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13479", "title": "Electrostatic interaction between merocyanine 540 and liposomal and mitochondrial membranes.", "content": "The fluorescence of merocyanine 540 (MC) in liposomal and mitochondrial suspensions was measured under various conditions. Under a given condition, both the amount of dye bound to the membrane and the zeta potential were determined simultaneously. It was found that the fluorescence intensity was proportional to the amount of bound dye and correlated with the zeta potential of particles. The fluorescence intensity was represented quantiatively in terms of the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, when the electrostatic interaction acting between MC and membrane surface was properly taken into account. It was concluded that the changes in MC fluorescence in the liposomal and mitochondrial suspensions are mainly attributed to the changes in the surface potential of the membranes.", "contents": "Electrostatic interaction between merocyanine 540 and liposomal and mitochondrial membranes. The fluorescence of merocyanine 540 (MC) in liposomal and mitochondrial suspensions was measured under various conditions. Under a given condition, both the amount of dye bound to the membrane and the zeta potential were determined simultaneously. It was found that the fluorescence intensity was proportional to the amount of bound dye and correlated with the zeta potential of particles. The fluorescence intensity was represented quantiatively in terms of the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, when the electrostatic interaction acting between MC and membrane surface was properly taken into account. It was concluded that the changes in MC fluorescence in the liposomal and mitochondrial suspensions are mainly attributed to the changes in the surface potential of the membranes.", "PMID": 458842} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13480", "title": "Conductance noise of monazomycin-doped bilayer membranes.", "content": "The conductance noise of the monazomycin pore has been studied by autocorrelation analysis in multi-pore systems. The autocorrelation function could be described by a superposition of two single exponential functions of different time- and voltage-dependence. The slow voltage-dependent correlation time in the range of seconds is assigned to the formation of nonconducting pore precursors. The fast voltage-independent correlation time in the msec range is related to fluctuations in the number of open pores whereby each pore adopts only two conducting states (open and closed). The corresponding correlation amplitude depends on monazomycin concentration and could be related to the single pore conductance. With increasing voltage, a slight increase of the single pore conductance was obtained which is explained on the basis of an electrostatic barrier within the pore. The pore was found to be virtually unselective for different alkali ions (Li, K, Cs).", "contents": "Conductance noise of monazomycin-doped bilayer membranes. The conductance noise of the monazomycin pore has been studied by autocorrelation analysis in multi-pore systems. The autocorrelation function could be described by a superposition of two single exponential functions of different time- and voltage-dependence. The slow voltage-dependent correlation time in the range of seconds is assigned to the formation of nonconducting pore precursors. The fast voltage-independent correlation time in the msec range is related to fluctuations in the number of open pores whereby each pore adopts only two conducting states (open and closed). The corresponding correlation amplitude depends on monazomycin concentration and could be related to the single pore conductance. With increasing voltage, a slight increase of the single pore conductance was obtained which is explained on the basis of an electrostatic barrier within the pore. The pore was found to be virtually unselective for different alkali ions (Li, K, Cs).", "PMID": 458843} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13481", "title": "Distribution of potassium and chloride permeability over the surface and T-tubule membranes of mammalian skeletal muscle.", "content": "The distribution of K and Cl permeability, PK and PCl, over the surface and T-tubule membranes of red rat sternomastoid fibers has been determined. Membrane potential, Vm, was recorded with 3-M KCl-filled glass microelectrodes. Changes in Vm with changes in [K]o or [Cl]o were used to estimate PCl/PK in normal and detubulated preparations. The results show that the T-tubule membrane has a high PCl and is therefore different from the T-tubule membrane of amphibian fibers. Analysis of the time course of depolarization when [K]o was raised (in SO4 solutions) showed that PK was distributed over the surface and T-tubule membranes. Two observations suggested that T-tubule PCl was higher than the surface PCl. Firstly, in normal fibers, the depolarization caused by an increase in [K]o was 3.5 times greater in SO4 solutions than in Cl solutions. In marked contrast, the depolarization in glycerol-treated fibers was independent of [Cl]o. Secondly, the rapid change in Vm when [Cl]o was changed was reduced by 80% after glycerol treatment. Both observations suggest that PCl was low in glycerol-treated fibers. PCl/PK was calculated from the Vm data using Goldman, Hodgkin and Katz equations for Na and K or for Na, K, and Cl. In normal fibers PCl/PK = 4.5 and in glycerol-treated fibers PCl/PK = 0.28. Since it is unlikely that glycerol treatment would increase PK, the reduction in the ratio must follow the loss of Cl permeability \"channels\" in the T-tubule membrane.", "contents": "Distribution of potassium and chloride permeability over the surface and T-tubule membranes of mammalian skeletal muscle. The distribution of K and Cl permeability, PK and PCl, over the surface and T-tubule membranes of red rat sternomastoid fibers has been determined. Membrane potential, Vm, was recorded with 3-M KCl-filled glass microelectrodes. Changes in Vm with changes in [K]o or [Cl]o were used to estimate PCl/PK in normal and detubulated preparations. The results show that the T-tubule membrane has a high PCl and is therefore different from the T-tubule membrane of amphibian fibers. Analysis of the time course of depolarization when [K]o was raised (in SO4 solutions) showed that PK was distributed over the surface and T-tubule membranes. Two observations suggested that T-tubule PCl was higher than the surface PCl. Firstly, in normal fibers, the depolarization caused by an increase in [K]o was 3.5 times greater in SO4 solutions than in Cl solutions. In marked contrast, the depolarization in glycerol-treated fibers was independent of [Cl]o. Secondly, the rapid change in Vm when [Cl]o was changed was reduced by 80% after glycerol treatment. Both observations suggest that PCl was low in glycerol-treated fibers. PCl/PK was calculated from the Vm data using Goldman, Hodgkin and Katz equations for Na and K or for Na, K, and Cl. In normal fibers PCl/PK = 4.5 and in glycerol-treated fibers PCl/PK = 0.28. Since it is unlikely that glycerol treatment would increase PK, the reduction in the ratio must follow the loss of Cl permeability \"channels\" in the T-tubule membrane.", "PMID": 458844} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13482", "title": "On the environment and the rotational motion of amphiphilic flavins in artificial membrane vesicles as studied by fluorescence.", "content": "The incorporation of four amphiphilic flavins (\"amphiflavins\") as fluorescence markers bearing C18-hydrocarbon chains at various positions of the chromophore into artificial membrane vesicles has been investigated. The vesicles utilized were made from three different saturated phospholipids. The stability of the flavin-charged vesicles was found to be good over several days, depending somewhat on the temperature, the pH, and their concentration. A marked increase of the fluorescence quantum yield near the vesicle phase transition (crystalline leads to liquid crystalline) was found which was taken to indicate that the flavin nuclei are imbedded more deeply into the hydrophobic portion of the membranes. This is further supported by a hypsochromic shift of the near flavin UV-peak and the increase of absorbance at 450 nm upon melting. Rotational relaxation times of the various amphiflavins bound to the different vesicles are obtained from measurements of the fluorescence polarizations as a function of temperature. From these data, the microviscosities in the region of the chromophors are calculated. Measurements of the fluorescence polarization as a function of the solvent viscosity and vesicle phase (crystalline-liquid crystalline) indicate that below the phase transition the flavin nucleus is protected from the suspension medium by a lipid-water interphase, which softens above phase transition. The dependence of the flavin orientation and microenvironment on the position of the substitution of the aliphatic chain is reflected in the differences of the fluorescence yields and the shape of the emission spectra.", "contents": "On the environment and the rotational motion of amphiphilic flavins in artificial membrane vesicles as studied by fluorescence. The incorporation of four amphiphilic flavins (\"amphiflavins\") as fluorescence markers bearing C18-hydrocarbon chains at various positions of the chromophore into artificial membrane vesicles has been investigated. The vesicles utilized were made from three different saturated phospholipids. The stability of the flavin-charged vesicles was found to be good over several days, depending somewhat on the temperature, the pH, and their concentration. A marked increase of the fluorescence quantum yield near the vesicle phase transition (crystalline leads to liquid crystalline) was found which was taken to indicate that the flavin nuclei are imbedded more deeply into the hydrophobic portion of the membranes. This is further supported by a hypsochromic shift of the near flavin UV-peak and the increase of absorbance at 450 nm upon melting. Rotational relaxation times of the various amphiflavins bound to the different vesicles are obtained from measurements of the fluorescence polarizations as a function of temperature. From these data, the microviscosities in the region of the chromophors are calculated. Measurements of the fluorescence polarization as a function of the solvent viscosity and vesicle phase (crystalline-liquid crystalline) indicate that below the phase transition the flavin nucleus is protected from the suspension medium by a lipid-water interphase, which softens above phase transition. The dependence of the flavin orientation and microenvironment on the position of the substitution of the aliphatic chain is reflected in the differences of the fluorescence yields and the shape of the emission spectra.", "PMID": 458845} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13483", "title": "Pathways for bicarbonate transfer across the serosal membrane of turtle urinary bladder: studies with a disulfonic stilbene.", "content": "Bicarbonate is transferred across the serosal (S) membrane of the epithelial cells of the turtle bladder in two directions. Cellular HCO3- generated behind the H+ pump moves this membrane into the serosal solution. This efflux of HCO3- is inhibited by SITS (4-isothiocyano-4'-acetamido-2,2'-disulfonic stilbene). When HCO3- is added to the serosal solution it is transported across the epithelium in exchange for absorbed Cl-. This secretory HCO3- flow traverses the serosal cell membrane in the opposite direction. In this study the effects of serosal addition of 5 x 10(-4) M SITS on HCO3- secretion and Cl- absorption were examined. The rate of H+ secretion was brought to zero by an opposing pH gradient, and 20 mM HCO3- was added to S. HCO3- secretion, measured by pH stat titration, was equivalent to the increase in M leads to S Cl- flux after HCO3- addition. Neither the S leads to M flux of HCO3- nor the M leads to S flux of Cl- were affected by SITS. In the absence of electrochemical gradients, net Cl- absorption was observed only in the presence of HCO3- in the media; under such conditions, unidirectional and net fluxes of Cl- were not altered by serosal or mucosal SITS. H+ secretion, however, measured simultaneously as the short-circuit current in ouabain-treated bladders decreased markedly after serosal SITS. The inhibition of the efflux of HCO3- in series with the H+ pump and the failure of SITS to affect HCO3- secretion and Cl- absorption suggest that the epithelium contains at least two types of transport systems for bicarbonate in the serosal membrane.", "contents": "Pathways for bicarbonate transfer across the serosal membrane of turtle urinary bladder: studies with a disulfonic stilbene. Bicarbonate is transferred across the serosal (S) membrane of the epithelial cells of the turtle bladder in two directions. Cellular HCO3- generated behind the H+ pump moves this membrane into the serosal solution. This efflux of HCO3- is inhibited by SITS (4-isothiocyano-4'-acetamido-2,2'-disulfonic stilbene). When HCO3- is added to the serosal solution it is transported across the epithelium in exchange for absorbed Cl-. This secretory HCO3- flow traverses the serosal cell membrane in the opposite direction. In this study the effects of serosal addition of 5 x 10(-4) M SITS on HCO3- secretion and Cl- absorption were examined. The rate of H+ secretion was brought to zero by an opposing pH gradient, and 20 mM HCO3- was added to S. HCO3- secretion, measured by pH stat titration, was equivalent to the increase in M leads to S Cl- flux after HCO3- addition. Neither the S leads to M flux of HCO3- nor the M leads to S flux of Cl- were affected by SITS. In the absence of electrochemical gradients, net Cl- absorption was observed only in the presence of HCO3- in the media; under such conditions, unidirectional and net fluxes of Cl- were not altered by serosal or mucosal SITS. H+ secretion, however, measured simultaneously as the short-circuit current in ouabain-treated bladders decreased markedly after serosal SITS. The inhibition of the efflux of HCO3- in series with the H+ pump and the failure of SITS to affect HCO3- secretion and Cl- absorption suggest that the epithelium contains at least two types of transport systems for bicarbonate in the serosal membrane.", "PMID": 458846} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13484", "title": "Limitations of the Eadie-Hofstee plot to estimate kinetic parameters of intestinal transport in the presence of an unstirred water layer.", "content": "In the presence of an intestinal unstirred water layer, the relationship between substrate concentration (C1) and unidirectional flux (Jd) is not described by the equation for a rectangular hyperbole. Accordingly, transformations of the Michaelis-Menten equation may not necessarily be linear and may lead to serious errors in the estimation of the affinity constant (Km) and maximal transport rate (Jdm) of carrier-mediated processes. An equation has previously been derived which described Jd under conditions of varying effective thickness or surface area of the unstirred water layer, the free diffusion coefficient of the probe molecule, and the distribution of transport sites along the villus. These theoretical curves have been analyzed by using the Eadie-Hofstee transformation (Jd vs. Jd/C1) of the Michaelis-Menten equation. Use of this plot leads to serious discrepancies between the true and apparent affinity constants and between true and apparent maximal transport rates. These differences are further magnified by failure to correct for the contribution of passive permeation. The Eadie-Hofstee plot is of use, however, to infer certain qualitative characteristics of active transport processes, such as the variation in affinity constants and overlying resistance of the unstirred water layer at different sites along the villus and to predict the adequacy of the correction for the contribution of passive permeation.", "contents": "Limitations of the Eadie-Hofstee plot to estimate kinetic parameters of intestinal transport in the presence of an unstirred water layer. In the presence of an intestinal unstirred water layer, the relationship between substrate concentration (C1) and unidirectional flux (Jd) is not described by the equation for a rectangular hyperbole. Accordingly, transformations of the Michaelis-Menten equation may not necessarily be linear and may lead to serious errors in the estimation of the affinity constant (Km) and maximal transport rate (Jdm) of carrier-mediated processes. An equation has previously been derived which described Jd under conditions of varying effective thickness or surface area of the unstirred water layer, the free diffusion coefficient of the probe molecule, and the distribution of transport sites along the villus. These theoretical curves have been analyzed by using the Eadie-Hofstee transformation (Jd vs. Jd/C1) of the Michaelis-Menten equation. Use of this plot leads to serious discrepancies between the true and apparent affinity constants and between true and apparent maximal transport rates. These differences are further magnified by failure to correct for the contribution of passive permeation. The Eadie-Hofstee plot is of use, however, to infer certain qualitative characteristics of active transport processes, such as the variation in affinity constants and overlying resistance of the unstirred water layer at different sites along the villus and to predict the adequacy of the correction for the contribution of passive permeation.", "PMID": 458847} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13485", "title": "Three-dimensional view of the chromatin in freeze-fractured chicken erythrocyte nuclei.", "content": "The freeze-fracture thaw-fix (FfTF) technique described in earlier papers is applied in the present work to more detailed study of the chicken erythrocyte, by transmission replicas and high resolution scanning electron microscopy (3 nm scan beam size). The three-dimensional structure of the chromatin, and possibly the non-histone protein matrix, of fractured nuclei is to a large extent retained in this method of preparation and seen in stereomicrographs. In these micrographs the helical sub-structure of the 25 nm chromatin strands can be seen at about the same resolution as that of previously published micrographs in which extracted chromatin is viewed by negative contrast or after metal shadowing. The useful resolution of the secondary electron micrographs, for a suitably mounted specimen, is shown to be as good as that of transmission micrographs of platinum-carbon replicas of the same material.", "contents": "Three-dimensional view of the chromatin in freeze-fractured chicken erythrocyte nuclei. The freeze-fracture thaw-fix (FfTF) technique described in earlier papers is applied in the present work to more detailed study of the chicken erythrocyte, by transmission replicas and high resolution scanning electron microscopy (3 nm scan beam size). The three-dimensional structure of the chromatin, and possibly the non-histone protein matrix, of fractured nuclei is to a large extent retained in this method of preparation and seen in stereomicrographs. In these micrographs the helical sub-structure of the 25 nm chromatin strands can be seen at about the same resolution as that of previously published micrographs in which extracted chromatin is viewed by negative contrast or after metal shadowing. The useful resolution of the secondary electron micrographs, for a suitably mounted specimen, is shown to be as good as that of transmission micrographs of platinum-carbon replicas of the same material.", "PMID": 458848} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13486", "title": "A scanning microinterferometer with correction of errors caused by overlapping 'ghost' images.", "content": "An experimental setup has been built to correct the errors caused by overlapping 'ghost' images when scanning and integrating measurements are carried out with the Jamin-Libedef interference microscope. First a reference field with the object, producing the 'ghost' image, is scanned and the values of the optical path difference (OPD) of each point in the reference field are stored in a computer. Subsequently, the OPD of the object to be measured is calculated for each point by adding the measuring result to the average OPD of five points, located around the corresponding point in the reference field. The applicability of the setup has been tested by measurements with Sepharose beads, Hela cells and the Zeiss microinterference refractometer. The difference between measurements on the same object with and without overlapping 'ghost' image was about 10%. The reproducibility was tested by repeated measurements on the same cell whereby a standard deviation of 1.1% was found.", "contents": "A scanning microinterferometer with correction of errors caused by overlapping 'ghost' images. An experimental setup has been built to correct the errors caused by overlapping 'ghost' images when scanning and integrating measurements are carried out with the Jamin-Libedef interference microscope. First a reference field with the object, producing the 'ghost' image, is scanned and the values of the optical path difference (OPD) of each point in the reference field are stored in a computer. Subsequently, the OPD of the object to be measured is calculated for each point by adding the measuring result to the average OPD of five points, located around the corresponding point in the reference field. The applicability of the setup has been tested by measurements with Sepharose beads, Hela cells and the Zeiss microinterference refractometer. The difference between measurements on the same object with and without overlapping 'ghost' image was about 10%. The reproducibility was tested by repeated measurements on the same cell whereby a standard deviation of 1.1% was found.", "PMID": 458849} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13487", "title": "Intercellular junctions in FANFT-induced carcinomas of rat urinary bladder in tissue culture: in situ thin-section, freeze-fracture, and scanning electron microscopy studies.", "content": "This paper describes a set of simple methods for comparative light and electron microscopy studies on tissue cultured tumour cells derived from both noninvasive and invasive carcinogen-induced rat urinary bladder carcinomas. Cells are grown on Thermanox plastic coverslips and fixed in situ. Each plastic coverslip is then divided with scissors into four parts: the first is processed for light microscopy, the second for thin-section electron microscopy, the third for freeze-fracture electron microscopy, and the fourth for scanning electron microscopy. In some experiments, portions of the culture which have first been examined by light microscopy are subsequently prepared for electron microscopy. In this way, the culture conditions are kept constant and comparison of structural features (i.e. intercellular junctions) by several preparative techniques is possible. Noninvasive and invasive rat bladder tumour cells, characterized by numerous pleomorphic microvilli, have normal zonulae occludentes at the apices of lateral surfaces of tumour cells in all cultures. In some areas of invasive tumour cells, occludens junctions are focally attenuated, consisting of only one or two strands, and occasionally the strands are discontinuous. Gap junctions, type PF-1, as well as numerous demosomes are present in all cell lines. Thus, intercellular junctions in noninvasive and invasive rate bladder epithelial cell lines bear a striking resemblance to those previously described in the comparable solid primary tumours. These culture systems may be useful for studying factors which influence the formation of intercellular junctions during malignant transformation.", "contents": "Intercellular junctions in FANFT-induced carcinomas of rat urinary bladder in tissue culture: in situ thin-section, freeze-fracture, and scanning electron microscopy studies. This paper describes a set of simple methods for comparative light and electron microscopy studies on tissue cultured tumour cells derived from both noninvasive and invasive carcinogen-induced rat urinary bladder carcinomas. Cells are grown on Thermanox plastic coverslips and fixed in situ. Each plastic coverslip is then divided with scissors into four parts: the first is processed for light microscopy, the second for thin-section electron microscopy, the third for freeze-fracture electron microscopy, and the fourth for scanning electron microscopy. In some experiments, portions of the culture which have first been examined by light microscopy are subsequently prepared for electron microscopy. In this way, the culture conditions are kept constant and comparison of structural features (i.e. intercellular junctions) by several preparative techniques is possible. Noninvasive and invasive rat bladder tumour cells, characterized by numerous pleomorphic microvilli, have normal zonulae occludentes at the apices of lateral surfaces of tumour cells in all cultures. In some areas of invasive tumour cells, occludens junctions are focally attenuated, consisting of only one or two strands, and occasionally the strands are discontinuous. Gap junctions, type PF-1, as well as numerous demosomes are present in all cell lines. Thus, intercellular junctions in noninvasive and invasive rate bladder epithelial cell lines bear a striking resemblance to those previously described in the comparable solid primary tumours. These culture systems may be useful for studying factors which influence the formation of intercellular junctions during malignant transformation.", "PMID": 458850} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13488", "title": "The hind limb musculature of the brown kiwi, Apteryx australis mantelli.", "content": "The most complete account of the hind leg muscles of the kiwi was published a century ago by Sir Richard Owen, in his seventy-fifth year. This extensively-cited work has several omissions and errors, and while certain of these were corrected by subsequent authors, sufficient uncertainty remains to warrant a reinvestigation. In the present study a detailed description of the hind leg musculature is given, based upon dissections of two frozen specimens. An indication of the possible function of each muscle is given by assessing its size, action, and fiber-arrangement, together with tentative data on the relative abundance of twitch and tonus fibers. The correlation between surface features of bones and muscle attachments is investigated with a view to interpreting palaeontological material. Although the limb and pelvic bones are marked by numerous features which suggest muscle attachments, relatively few can be positively identified with specific muscles. Only 23% of the muscle origins and insertions can be identified, and, with three possible exceptions, no indication of relative size is given by the scars. The possibility of being able to reconstruct the musculature of the kiwi from its skeletal anatomy, much less that of its extinct relatives, is remote.", "contents": "The hind limb musculature of the brown kiwi, Apteryx australis mantelli. The most complete account of the hind leg muscles of the kiwi was published a century ago by Sir Richard Owen, in his seventy-fifth year. This extensively-cited work has several omissions and errors, and while certain of these were corrected by subsequent authors, sufficient uncertainty remains to warrant a reinvestigation. In the present study a detailed description of the hind leg musculature is given, based upon dissections of two frozen specimens. An indication of the possible function of each muscle is given by assessing its size, action, and fiber-arrangement, together with tentative data on the relative abundance of twitch and tonus fibers. The correlation between surface features of bones and muscle attachments is investigated with a view to interpreting palaeontological material. Although the limb and pelvic bones are marked by numerous features which suggest muscle attachments, relatively few can be positively identified with specific muscles. Only 23% of the muscle origins and insertions can be identified, and, with three possible exceptions, no indication of relative size is given by the scars. The possibility of being able to reconstruct the musculature of the kiwi from its skeletal anatomy, much less that of its extinct relatives, is remote.", "PMID": 458856} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13489", "title": "Ultrastructure of calcified cartilage in the endoskeletal tesserae of sharks.", "content": "The tesserate pattern of endoskeletal calcification has been investigated in jaws, gill arches, vertebral arches and fins of the sharks Carcharhinus menisorrah, Triaenodon obesus and Negaprion brevirostris by techniques of light and electron microscopy. Individual tesserae develop peripherally at the boundary between cartilage and perichondrium. An inner zone, the body, is composed of calcified cartilage containing viable chondroxytes separated by basophilic contour lines which have been called Liesegang waves or rings. The outer zone of tesserae, the cap, is composed of calcified tissue which appears to be produced by perichondrial fibroblasts more directly, i.e., without first differentiating as chondroblasts. Furthermore, the cap zone is penetrated by acidophilic Sharpey fibers of collagen. It is suggested that scleroblasts of the cap zone could be classified as osteoblasts. If so, the cap could be considered a thin veneer of bone atop the calcified cartilage of the body of a tessera. By scanning electron microscopy it was observed that outer and inner surfaces of tesserae differ in appearance. Calcospherites and hydroxyapatite crystals similar to those commonly seen on the surface of bone are present on the outer surface of the tessera adjacent to the perichondrium. On the inner surface adjoining hyaline cartilage, however, calcospherites of variable size are the predominant surface feature. Transmission electron microscopy shows calcification in close association with coarse collagen fibrils on the outer side of a tessera, but such fibrils are absent from the cartilaginous matrix along the under side of tesserae. Calcified cartilage as a tissue type in the endoskeleton of sharks is a primitive vertebrate characteristic. Calcification in the tesserate pattern occurring in modern Chondrichthyes may be derived from an ancestral pattern of a continuous bed of calcified cartilage underlying a layer of perichondral bone, as theorized by Orvig ('51); or the tesserate pattern in these fish may itself be primitive.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of calcified cartilage in the endoskeletal tesserae of sharks. The tesserate pattern of endoskeletal calcification has been investigated in jaws, gill arches, vertebral arches and fins of the sharks Carcharhinus menisorrah, Triaenodon obesus and Negaprion brevirostris by techniques of light and electron microscopy. Individual tesserae develop peripherally at the boundary between cartilage and perichondrium. An inner zone, the body, is composed of calcified cartilage containing viable chondroxytes separated by basophilic contour lines which have been called Liesegang waves or rings. The outer zone of tesserae, the cap, is composed of calcified tissue which appears to be produced by perichondrial fibroblasts more directly, i.e., without first differentiating as chondroblasts. Furthermore, the cap zone is penetrated by acidophilic Sharpey fibers of collagen. It is suggested that scleroblasts of the cap zone could be classified as osteoblasts. If so, the cap could be considered a thin veneer of bone atop the calcified cartilage of the body of a tessera. By scanning electron microscopy it was observed that outer and inner surfaces of tesserae differ in appearance. Calcospherites and hydroxyapatite crystals similar to those commonly seen on the surface of bone are present on the outer surface of the tessera adjacent to the perichondrium. On the inner surface adjoining hyaline cartilage, however, calcospherites of variable size are the predominant surface feature. Transmission electron microscopy shows calcification in close association with coarse collagen fibrils on the outer side of a tessera, but such fibrils are absent from the cartilaginous matrix along the under side of tesserae. Calcified cartilage as a tissue type in the endoskeleton of sharks is a primitive vertebrate characteristic. Calcification in the tesserate pattern occurring in modern Chondrichthyes may be derived from an ancestral pattern of a continuous bed of calcified cartilage underlying a layer of perichondral bone, as theorized by Orvig ('51); or the tesserate pattern in these fish may itself be primitive.", "PMID": 458857} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13490", "title": "Organization of nucleus rotundus, a tectofugal thalamic nucleus in turtles. I. Nissl and Golgi analyses.", "content": "This study consists of a detailed cytoarchitectonic and Golgi analysis of a major tectofugal thalamic nucleus in the red-eared turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. Neurons in nucleus rotundus have a unimodal soma size distribution and a common dendritic branching pattern. They have long dendrites which undergo sparse, dichotomous branchings and contribute to dendritic fields that cover a third to half the dimensions of the nucleus. Spicules, 1-2 mu long, and complex appendages, 5-20 mu long, are found with low density on many dendrites in Golgi-Kopsch material. A few cells have beaded dendritic processes. Three cytoarchitectural regions can be differentiated in nucleus rotundus: a shell, a cell-poor region and a core. The shell is a monolayer of somata forming the peripheral boundary of most of the nucleus. The cell-poor region forms a thin zone concentric with and internal to the shell. Shell cells send some of their dendrites concentrically within this zone and others radially into the core region. Core neurons are dispersed within the neuropil of the nucleus and usually have spherical dendritic fields. However, peripheral core neurons have asymmetrical fields, so their dendrites do not extend beyond the shell. Caudomedial and central subregions of the core can be defined on the basis of neuronal density and cytology. Somata in the caudomedial area of the core are densely packed and have slightly darker staining cytoplasm than those in the central subregion. However, their dendrites are similar to those of the central core neurons. There is extensive dendritic overlap between the two subregions.", "contents": "Organization of nucleus rotundus, a tectofugal thalamic nucleus in turtles. I. Nissl and Golgi analyses. This study consists of a detailed cytoarchitectonic and Golgi analysis of a major tectofugal thalamic nucleus in the red-eared turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans. Neurons in nucleus rotundus have a unimodal soma size distribution and a common dendritic branching pattern. They have long dendrites which undergo sparse, dichotomous branchings and contribute to dendritic fields that cover a third to half the dimensions of the nucleus. Spicules, 1-2 mu long, and complex appendages, 5-20 mu long, are found with low density on many dendrites in Golgi-Kopsch material. A few cells have beaded dendritic processes. Three cytoarchitectural regions can be differentiated in nucleus rotundus: a shell, a cell-poor region and a core. The shell is a monolayer of somata forming the peripheral boundary of most of the nucleus. The cell-poor region forms a thin zone concentric with and internal to the shell. Shell cells send some of their dendrites concentrically within this zone and others radially into the core region. Core neurons are dispersed within the neuropil of the nucleus and usually have spherical dendritic fields. However, peripheral core neurons have asymmetrical fields, so their dendrites do not extend beyond the shell. Caudomedial and central subregions of the core can be defined on the basis of neuronal density and cytology. Somata in the caudomedial area of the core are densely packed and have slightly darker staining cytoplasm than those in the central subregion. However, their dendrites are similar to those of the central core neurons. There is extensive dendritic overlap between the two subregions.", "PMID": 458858} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13491", "title": "Ultrastructure of chloride cells in young adults of the anadromous sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus L., in fresh water and during adaptation to sea water.", "content": "The chloride cells in the interlamellar areas of the gills of young adult, anadromous sea lampreys, Petromyzon marinus L., captured in fresh water undergo structural modification during the adaptation of these animals to sea water. In fresh water the chloride cells are partially overlapped by mucus-secreting superficial cells and contain an extensive reticulum of cytoplasmic tubules, which are confluent with both lateral and basal plasma membranes, numerous mitochondria, a Golgi complex of moderate size, and numerous apical vesicles. Adaptation to sea water results in a retraction of the superficial cells, exposing the entire apical surface of the chloride cells, and a proliferation of both cytoplasmic tubules and mitochondria. Extensive enlargement of the Golgi complex in the chloride cells of these animals suggests the involvement of this organelle in the proliferation of cytoplasmic tubules. The extracellular tracer, ruthenium red, enters the tubules from the lateral or basal intercellular spaces in both freshwater- and seawater-adapted animals but never enters either tubules or vesicles from the apical surfaces, indicating that these are not confluent. The presence of dividing basal cells and newly-forming chloride cells, combined with evidence of degeneration of chloride cells, suggests that there is a turnover of this cell type. Both superficial and basal cells are phagocytic and involved in heterophagy of degenerating chloride cells. This phenomenon occurs in both fresh water and sea water indicating that the chloride cells may be functional in both environments.", "contents": "Ultrastructure of chloride cells in young adults of the anadromous sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus L., in fresh water and during adaptation to sea water. The chloride cells in the interlamellar areas of the gills of young adult, anadromous sea lampreys, Petromyzon marinus L., captured in fresh water undergo structural modification during the adaptation of these animals to sea water. In fresh water the chloride cells are partially overlapped by mucus-secreting superficial cells and contain an extensive reticulum of cytoplasmic tubules, which are confluent with both lateral and basal plasma membranes, numerous mitochondria, a Golgi complex of moderate size, and numerous apical vesicles. Adaptation to sea water results in a retraction of the superficial cells, exposing the entire apical surface of the chloride cells, and a proliferation of both cytoplasmic tubules and mitochondria. Extensive enlargement of the Golgi complex in the chloride cells of these animals suggests the involvement of this organelle in the proliferation of cytoplasmic tubules. The extracellular tracer, ruthenium red, enters the tubules from the lateral or basal intercellular spaces in both freshwater- and seawater-adapted animals but never enters either tubules or vesicles from the apical surfaces, indicating that these are not confluent. The presence of dividing basal cells and newly-forming chloride cells, combined with evidence of degeneration of chloride cells, suggests that there is a turnover of this cell type. Both superficial and basal cells are phagocytic and involved in heterophagy of degenerating chloride cells. This phenomenon occurs in both fresh water and sea water indicating that the chloride cells may be functional in both environments.", "PMID": 458859} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13492", "title": "A model to explain the posterior limit of the bite point in reptiles.", "content": "A biomechanical model of the jaw mechanism in some reptiles is presented. Symmetrical muscle activity that produces equal forces on both sides of the head is assumed. The model predicts the position of the most posterior bit point and offers a functional explanation for this prediction. Turtles are used to illustrate the idea.", "contents": "A model to explain the posterior limit of the bite point in reptiles. A biomechanical model of the jaw mechanism in some reptiles is presented. Symmetrical muscle activity that produces equal forces on both sides of the head is assumed. The model predicts the position of the most posterior bit point and offers a functional explanation for this prediction. Turtles are used to illustrate the idea.", "PMID": 458860} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13493", "title": "The effect of wear on the cheek teeth and associated dental tissues of the lizard Uromastix aegyptius (Agamidae).", "content": "Serial coronal sections of the teeth and their surrounding tissues in the agamid lizard, Uromastix aegyptius, were examined with the light microscope in order to determine how these structures change as the teeth wear. Because new teeth are added only at the posterior end of the tooth row and older teeth are not replaced, the series of sections included the youngest as well as the oldest teeth. Two types of changes occur as the teeth become older: bone under the teeth changes from cancellous to compact, and the pulp chamber of the tooth is obliterated. Although the labial surface of the dentary lacks a periosteal covering and some of the bone lacks any covering at all, it remains functional throughout the life of the animal.", "contents": "The effect of wear on the cheek teeth and associated dental tissues of the lizard Uromastix aegyptius (Agamidae). Serial coronal sections of the teeth and their surrounding tissues in the agamid lizard, Uromastix aegyptius, were examined with the light microscope in order to determine how these structures change as the teeth wear. Because new teeth are added only at the posterior end of the tooth row and older teeth are not replaced, the series of sections included the youngest as well as the oldest teeth. Two types of changes occur as the teeth become older: bone under the teeth changes from cancellous to compact, and the pulp chamber of the tooth is obliterated. Although the labial surface of the dentary lacks a periosteal covering and some of the bone lacks any covering at all, it remains functional throughout the life of the animal.", "PMID": 458861} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13494", "title": "The functional significance of primate mandibular form.", "content": "A stress analysis of the primate mandible suggests that vertically deep jaws in the molar region are usually an adaptation to counter increased sagittal bending stress about the balancing-side mandibular corpus during unilateral mastication. This increased bending stress about the balancing side is caused by an increase in the amount of balancing-side muscle force. Furthermore, this increased muscle force will also cause an increase in dorso-ventral shear stress along the mandibular symphysis. Since increased symphyseal stress can be countered by symphyseal fusion and as increased bending stress can be countered by a deeper jaw, deep jaws and symphyseal fusion are often part of the same functional pattern. In some primates (e.g., Cercocebus albigena), deep jaws are an adaptation to counter bending in the sagittal plane during powerful incisor biting, rather than during unilateral mastication. The stress analysis of the primate mandible also suggests that jaws which are transversely thick in the molar region are an adaptation to counter increased torsion about the long axis of the working-side mandibular corpus during unilateral mastication. Increased torsion of the mandibular corpus can be caused by an increase in masticatory muscle force, an increase in the transverse component of the postcanine bite force and/or an increase in premolar use during mastication. Patterns of masticatory muscle force were estimated for galagos and macaques, demonstrating that the ratio of working-side muscle force to balancing-side muscle force is approximately 1.5:1 in macaques and 3.5:1 in galagos during unilateral isometric molar biting. These data support the hypothesis that mandibular symphyseal fusion is an adaptative response to maximize unilateral molar bite force by utilizing a greater percentage of balancing-side muscle force.", "contents": "The functional significance of primate mandibular form. A stress analysis of the primate mandible suggests that vertically deep jaws in the molar region are usually an adaptation to counter increased sagittal bending stress about the balancing-side mandibular corpus during unilateral mastication. This increased bending stress about the balancing side is caused by an increase in the amount of balancing-side muscle force. Furthermore, this increased muscle force will also cause an increase in dorso-ventral shear stress along the mandibular symphysis. Since increased symphyseal stress can be countered by symphyseal fusion and as increased bending stress can be countered by a deeper jaw, deep jaws and symphyseal fusion are often part of the same functional pattern. In some primates (e.g., Cercocebus albigena), deep jaws are an adaptation to counter bending in the sagittal plane during powerful incisor biting, rather than during unilateral mastication. The stress analysis of the primate mandible also suggests that jaws which are transversely thick in the molar region are an adaptation to counter increased torsion about the long axis of the working-side mandibular corpus during unilateral mastication. Increased torsion of the mandibular corpus can be caused by an increase in masticatory muscle force, an increase in the transverse component of the postcanine bite force and/or an increase in premolar use during mastication. Patterns of masticatory muscle force were estimated for galagos and macaques, demonstrating that the ratio of working-side muscle force to balancing-side muscle force is approximately 1.5:1 in macaques and 3.5:1 in galagos during unilateral isometric molar biting. These data support the hypothesis that mandibular symphyseal fusion is an adaptative response to maximize unilateral molar bite force by utilizing a greater percentage of balancing-side muscle force.", "PMID": 458862} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13495", "title": "Ultrastructural and histochemical features of the thymus glands of the adult lungless salamander, Plethodon glutinosus (Caudata: Plethodontidae).", "content": "The thymus glands of adult slimy salamanders (Plethodon glutinosus) were examined by light and electron microscopy with the objective of describing the populations of epithelial cells believed to be secretory. The results of various histochemical procedures designed to demonstrate nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and mucosubstances were evaluated by light microscopy. Each thymus is incompletely subdivided into a variable number of interconnected lobules by trabeculae extending inward from a thin capsule composed of connective tissues. The thymic parenchyma lacks distinct cortical and medullary regions, although developing lymphocytes and plasma cells tend to accumulate in larger numbers in the outermost portions of the glands. Basophils are found regularly in the capsule and trabeculae, but only very rarely within the thymic parenchyma. The epithelial cells of the thymus can be classified into five categories: epithelial reticular cells; three varieties of granulated cells (types I, II, and III), and myoid cells. Epithelial reticular cells form a three-dimensional network which extends throughout all portions of the thymus. Type I and type II granulated cells can be distinguished from one another by various morphological criteria at the ultrastructural level, but only small differences in the composition of their inclusions can be demonstrated histochemically. Both types of granules are composed principally of a proteinaceous material containing an abundance of primary amino and guanidyl groups. In addition, most type I inclusions possess a lipid component that cannot be demonstrated in type II granules. Type III granulated cells possess very small cytoplasmic inclusions resembling those of gastroenteric endocrine cells. Myoid cells contain concentrically arranged myofibrils composed of sarcomeres. In favorably oriented material, small cysts can be identified whose walls are composed of mixtures of type I cells, type II cells, and epithelial reticular cells. Groups of degenerating epithelial cells form lamellated structures corresponding to Hassall's (thymic) corpuscles.", "contents": "Ultrastructural and histochemical features of the thymus glands of the adult lungless salamander, Plethodon glutinosus (Caudata: Plethodontidae). The thymus glands of adult slimy salamanders (Plethodon glutinosus) were examined by light and electron microscopy with the objective of describing the populations of epithelial cells believed to be secretory. The results of various histochemical procedures designed to demonstrate nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and mucosubstances were evaluated by light microscopy. Each thymus is incompletely subdivided into a variable number of interconnected lobules by trabeculae extending inward from a thin capsule composed of connective tissues. The thymic parenchyma lacks distinct cortical and medullary regions, although developing lymphocytes and plasma cells tend to accumulate in larger numbers in the outermost portions of the glands. Basophils are found regularly in the capsule and trabeculae, but only very rarely within the thymic parenchyma. The epithelial cells of the thymus can be classified into five categories: epithelial reticular cells; three varieties of granulated cells (types I, II, and III), and myoid cells. Epithelial reticular cells form a three-dimensional network which extends throughout all portions of the thymus. Type I and type II granulated cells can be distinguished from one another by various morphological criteria at the ultrastructural level, but only small differences in the composition of their inclusions can be demonstrated histochemically. Both types of granules are composed principally of a proteinaceous material containing an abundance of primary amino and guanidyl groups. In addition, most type I inclusions possess a lipid component that cannot be demonstrated in type II granules. Type III granulated cells possess very small cytoplasmic inclusions resembling those of gastroenteric endocrine cells. Myoid cells contain concentrically arranged myofibrils composed of sarcomeres. In favorably oriented material, small cysts can be identified whose walls are composed of mixtures of type I cells, type II cells, and epithelial reticular cells. Groups of degenerating epithelial cells form lamellated structures corresponding to Hassall's (thymic) corpuscles.", "PMID": 458863} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13496", "title": "Evolutionary potential: a mathematical hypothesis of mouse hemoglobin beta chain evolution.", "content": "This paper examines the possibility that the linkage arrangements and regulatory properties of genes may be influenced by selection. A mathematical hypothesis is developed in order to show how selective properties of hemoglobin beta chains could have influenced the linkage and regulation of their structural genes. The hypothesis is applied to the case of mouse hemoglobin beta chains. In most mice, closely-linked pairs of loci (doublets) code for two structurally divergent beta chains in unequal amounts. Some mouse strains have singlet alleles, however, coding for another beta chain variant. With the mathematical hypothesis, one can show that selectively determined \"evolutionary potentials\" may have favored changes in proportions of major and minor chains produced by a doublet allele. In the extreme case, zero production of the minor chain may give a selective advantage, leading to a singlet; conversely, selection may favor linking another gene to the singlet locus to give a doublet. A specific prediction of the model is the stable maintenance under certain conditions of multiple alleles at regulatory loci. The concept of evolutionary potential thus suggests that selection could have influenced the evolution of genotypic fitnesses, in addition to causing changes in gene frequencies as in standard population genetics models", "contents": "Evolutionary potential: a mathematical hypothesis of mouse hemoglobin beta chain evolution. This paper examines the possibility that the linkage arrangements and regulatory properties of genes may be influenced by selection. A mathematical hypothesis is developed in order to show how selective properties of hemoglobin beta chains could have influenced the linkage and regulation of their structural genes. The hypothesis is applied to the case of mouse hemoglobin beta chains. In most mice, closely-linked pairs of loci (doublets) code for two structurally divergent beta chains in unequal amounts. Some mouse strains have singlet alleles, however, coding for another beta chain variant. With the mathematical hypothesis, one can show that selectively determined \"evolutionary potentials\" may have favored changes in proportions of major and minor chains produced by a doublet allele. In the extreme case, zero production of the minor chain may give a selective advantage, leading to a singlet; conversely, selection may favor linking another gene to the singlet locus to give a doublet. A specific prediction of the model is the stable maintenance under certain conditions of multiple alleles at regulatory loci. The concept of evolutionary potential thus suggests that selection could have influenced the evolution of genotypic fitnesses, in addition to causing changes in gene frequencies as in standard population genetics models", "PMID": 458868} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13497", "title": "Hydrogen atom initiated chemistry.", "content": "H atoms have been created by the photolysis of H2S. These then initiated reactions in mixtures involving acetylene-ammonia-water and ethylene-ammonia-water. In the case of the acetylene system, the products consisted of two amino acids, ethylene and a group of primarily cyclic thio-compounds, but no free sulfur. In the case of the ethylene systems, seven amino acids, including an aromatic one, ethane, free sulfur, and a group of solely linear thio-compounds were produced. Total quantum yields for the production of amino acids were approximately 3 x 10(-5) and approximately 2 x 10(-4) with ethylene and acetylene respectively as carbon substrates. Consideration is given of the mechanism for the formation of some of the products and implications regarding planetary atmosphere chemistry, particularly that of Jupiter, are explored.", "contents": "Hydrogen atom initiated chemistry. H atoms have been created by the photolysis of H2S. These then initiated reactions in mixtures involving acetylene-ammonia-water and ethylene-ammonia-water. In the case of the acetylene system, the products consisted of two amino acids, ethylene and a group of primarily cyclic thio-compounds, but no free sulfur. In the case of the ethylene systems, seven amino acids, including an aromatic one, ethane, free sulfur, and a group of solely linear thio-compounds were produced. Total quantum yields for the production of amino acids were approximately 3 x 10(-5) and approximately 2 x 10(-4) with ethylene and acetylene respectively as carbon substrates. Consideration is given of the mechanism for the formation of some of the products and implications regarding planetary atmosphere chemistry, particularly that of Jupiter, are explored.", "PMID": 458869} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13498", "title": "Are evolutionary rates really variable?", "content": "Langley and Fitch (1974, 1976) have shown that the pattern of nucleotide substitutions in proteins is inconsistent with a Poisson process with constant rate. From this they conclude that the rate is temporally heterogeneous. It is pointed out in this note that a process which is temporally homogeneous but not a Poisson process is compatible with the data if the coefficient of variation of the time between substitutions is around 1.63. Furthermore, theoretical analysis of samples from neutral phylogenies shows that these samples should not appear to be samples from a Poisson process, but should deviate from a Poisson process in the same direction, though perhaps not to the same extent, as do the data.", "contents": "Are evolutionary rates really variable? Langley and Fitch (1974, 1976) have shown that the pattern of nucleotide substitutions in proteins is inconsistent with a Poisson process with constant rate. From this they conclude that the rate is temporally heterogeneous. It is pointed out in this note that a process which is temporally homogeneous but not a Poisson process is compatible with the data if the coefficient of variation of the time between substitutions is around 1.63. Furthermore, theoretical analysis of samples from neutral phylogenies shows that these samples should not appear to be samples from a Poisson process, but should deviate from a Poisson process in the same direction, though perhaps not to the same extent, as do the data.", "PMID": 458870} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13499", "title": "Beta-structures of polypeptides with L-and D-residues. Part I. Synthesis and conformational studies.", "content": "A series of five alternating poly(leucyl-lysyl) samples with varying amounts of L-and D-residues randomly distributed along the chain, but evenly shared out amongst leucyl and lysyl residues were synthesized by condensation of a mixture of the four diastereoisomeric dipeptide p-nitro-phenylesters. Their behavior in aqueous solution at various ionic strengths was studied by infrared spectroscopy which allowed measurement of the total amount of beta-structures, and by circular dichroism which gives the excess of L-residues over D-residues in the same structures. Comparison with the properties of the all L-poly(Lys-Leu-Lys-Leu) shows that incorporation of a few D-residues in a L-chain seems to reduce the width of the beta-sheets obtained in presence of salt. Higher proportions of D-isomers prevent the coil leads to beta transition from occurring when the ionic strength is increased except for segments containing at least 6 to 7 adjacent residues of the same configuration.", "contents": "Beta-structures of polypeptides with L-and D-residues. Part I. Synthesis and conformational studies. A series of five alternating poly(leucyl-lysyl) samples with varying amounts of L-and D-residues randomly distributed along the chain, but evenly shared out amongst leucyl and lysyl residues were synthesized by condensation of a mixture of the four diastereoisomeric dipeptide p-nitro-phenylesters. Their behavior in aqueous solution at various ionic strengths was studied by infrared spectroscopy which allowed measurement of the total amount of beta-structures, and by circular dichroism which gives the excess of L-residues over D-residues in the same structures. Comparison with the properties of the all L-poly(Lys-Leu-Lys-Leu) shows that incorporation of a few D-residues in a L-chain seems to reduce the width of the beta-sheets obtained in presence of salt. Higher proportions of D-isomers prevent the coil leads to beta transition from occurring when the ionic strength is increased except for segments containing at least 6 to 7 adjacent residues of the same configuration.", "PMID": 458871} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13500", "title": "Beta-structures of polypeptides with L-and D-residues. Part II. Statistical analysis and enrichment in enantiomer.", "content": "The possible formation of beta-structures from polypeptide chains with L-and D-Residues randomly distributed was statistically analyzed within the frame of two hypotheses. Firstly, only those segments containing residues of identical chirality can associate to form antiparallel beta-structures, and secondly these segments must have a minimum length. The influence of different factors was examined: initial ratio of the L-and D-monomer, minimum length required for the segments to be incorporated into beta-sheets, average length of the peptide molecules, and stereoselectivity in the course of the polymerization process. The results show that in all cases nuclei of beta-sheets surrounded by random coil segments are formed, the optical activity of which very increases to purity when the initial ratio of monomers deviates from the racemic mixture. This suggests experiments to enrich the system in one enantiomer. Comparison is made with the corresponding behavior and properties of the alpha-helical structure.", "contents": "Beta-structures of polypeptides with L-and D-residues. Part II. Statistical analysis and enrichment in enantiomer. The possible formation of beta-structures from polypeptide chains with L-and D-Residues randomly distributed was statistically analyzed within the frame of two hypotheses. Firstly, only those segments containing residues of identical chirality can associate to form antiparallel beta-structures, and secondly these segments must have a minimum length. The influence of different factors was examined: initial ratio of the L-and D-monomer, minimum length required for the segments to be incorporated into beta-sheets, average length of the peptide molecules, and stereoselectivity in the course of the polymerization process. The results show that in all cases nuclei of beta-sheets surrounded by random coil segments are formed, the optical activity of which very increases to purity when the initial ratio of monomers deviates from the racemic mixture. This suggests experiments to enrich the system in one enantiomer. Comparison is made with the corresponding behavior and properties of the alpha-helical structure.", "PMID": 458872} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13501", "title": "Evolutionary changes in protein composition -- evidence for an optimal strategy.", "content": "The information contained in the composition of different proteins of the same family is analyzed. It is found that within each family the gain in information per amino acid replacement is constant. This finding is interpreted to imply that evolutionary changes in proteins follow an \"optimal\" path in the sense that they maximize the number of potentially functional sequences that can be generated by T accepted point mutations from a given protein, subject to restrictions due to biological function.", "contents": "Evolutionary changes in protein composition -- evidence for an optimal strategy. The information contained in the composition of different proteins of the same family is analyzed. It is found that within each family the gain in information per amino acid replacement is constant. This finding is interpreted to imply that evolutionary changes in proteins follow an \"optimal\" path in the sense that they maximize the number of potentially functional sequences that can be generated by T accepted point mutations from a given protein, subject to restrictions due to biological function.", "PMID": 458873} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13502", "title": "On the analysis of unrestricted mixed cultures in determining the fitness of microbial mutants.", "content": "Equations describing the growth of two microbial strains in unrestricted mixed culture are developed and their use described. With this treatment, mixed cultures maintained in growth by periodic dilution or by use of a turbidostat may be used to obtain a quantitative measure of the adaptive or maladaptive effects of specific mutant alleles.", "contents": "On the analysis of unrestricted mixed cultures in determining the fitness of microbial mutants. Equations describing the growth of two microbial strains in unrestricted mixed culture are developed and their use described. With this treatment, mixed cultures maintained in growth by periodic dilution or by use of a turbidostat may be used to obtain a quantitative measure of the adaptive or maladaptive effects of specific mutant alleles.", "PMID": 458875} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13503", "title": "Squalenes, phytanes and other isoprenoids as major neutral lipids of methanogenic and thermoacidophilic \"archaebacteria\".", "content": "The neutral lipids of nine species of methanogenic bacteria including five methanobacilli, two methanococci, a methanospirillum, one methanosarcina as well as two thermoacidophilic bacteria, Thermoplasma and Sulfolobus, were analyzed. The major components were C30, C25 and/or C20 acylic isoprenoid hydrocarbons with a continuous range of hydroisoprenoid homologues. The range of acyclic isoprenoids detected were from C14 to C30. Apart from Methanosarcina barkeri, squalene and/or hydrosqualene derivetives were the predominant components in all species studied. The components of Methanosarcina barkeri were a family of C25 homologues. The distribution of the neutral lipid components and their specific variations in relative intensities emphasized the differences between the test organisms while the generic nature of the isoprenoid hydrocarbons demonstrated similarities between the diverse bacteria. The neutral lipid compositions from these bacteria, many of which exist in environmental conditions like those described for the various evolutionary stages of the archean ecology, resemble the isoprenoid distribution isolated from ancient sediments and petroleum. Therefore, these finding may have major implications to biological and biogeochemical evolution.", "contents": "Squalenes, phytanes and other isoprenoids as major neutral lipids of methanogenic and thermoacidophilic \"archaebacteria\". The neutral lipids of nine species of methanogenic bacteria including five methanobacilli, two methanococci, a methanospirillum, one methanosarcina as well as two thermoacidophilic bacteria, Thermoplasma and Sulfolobus, were analyzed. The major components were C30, C25 and/or C20 acylic isoprenoid hydrocarbons with a continuous range of hydroisoprenoid homologues. The range of acyclic isoprenoids detected were from C14 to C30. Apart from Methanosarcina barkeri, squalene and/or hydrosqualene derivetives were the predominant components in all species studied. The components of Methanosarcina barkeri were a family of C25 homologues. The distribution of the neutral lipid components and their specific variations in relative intensities emphasized the differences between the test organisms while the generic nature of the isoprenoid hydrocarbons demonstrated similarities between the diverse bacteria. The neutral lipid compositions from these bacteria, many of which exist in environmental conditions like those described for the various evolutionary stages of the archean ecology, resemble the isoprenoid distribution isolated from ancient sediments and petroleum. Therefore, these finding may have major implications to biological and biogeochemical evolution.", "PMID": 458874} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13504", "title": "Stressful life events and burn injuries.", "content": "About half of the 67 adults admitted to a burn treatment unit during the course of a year were found to have pre-existing physical and/or psychiatric conditions that increased their susceptibility to injury. In addition, the majority of victims were unmarried, unemployed, and came from low social class, circumstances that tended to increase their vulnerability. A significant increase in stressful life events was reported by these patients during the year preceding burn injury. This life change was negatively correlated with age, income, and number of friends, and positively correlated with social class and psychiatric illness. Two subgroups of persons vulnerable to burns were identified, the first, older women with physical illness, and the second, persons of low social class with psychiatric disorders. The findings have implications for burn prevention and rehabilitation of burn victims.", "contents": "Stressful life events and burn injuries. About half of the 67 adults admitted to a burn treatment unit during the course of a year were found to have pre-existing physical and/or psychiatric conditions that increased their susceptibility to injury. In addition, the majority of victims were unmarried, unemployed, and came from low social class, circumstances that tended to increase their vulnerability. A significant increase in stressful life events was reported by these patients during the year preceding burn injury. This life change was negatively correlated with age, income, and number of friends, and positively correlated with social class and psychiatric illness. Two subgroups of persons vulnerable to burns were identified, the first, older women with physical illness, and the second, persons of low social class with psychiatric disorders. The findings have implications for burn prevention and rehabilitation of burn victims.", "PMID": 458876} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13505", "title": "Gas myelography in spinal cord injury.", "content": "Using polytomographic techniques, gas myelography was performed in 162 patients with post-traumatic neurologic deficit. The type, extent, and location of lesions were easily demonstrated, allowing adequate preoperative surgical planning. In cases in which expected neurologic improvement did not follow surgery, postoperative myelography provided information so that remedial measures could be taken. No neurologic deterioration was noted in any of the patients and furthermore, arachnoiditis, which may accompany positive contrast myelography, has not been detected in any of the patients in the series reported.", "contents": "Gas myelography in spinal cord injury. Using polytomographic techniques, gas myelography was performed in 162 patients with post-traumatic neurologic deficit. The type, extent, and location of lesions were easily demonstrated, allowing adequate preoperative surgical planning. In cases in which expected neurologic improvement did not follow surgery, postoperative myelography provided information so that remedial measures could be taken. No neurologic deterioration was noted in any of the patients and furthermore, arachnoiditis, which may accompany positive contrast myelography, has not been detected in any of the patients in the series reported.", "PMID": 458877} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13506", "title": "Delayed definitive reconstruction of the burned hand: evolution of a program of care.", "content": "Experience gained in treating patients with hand burns admitted to an active Regional Burn Center has resulted in the development of a biphasic approach which separates early healing and later reconstructive surgical procedures. This schedule permits late definitive surgery on healed functioning hands and is accomplished in a single operation in most cases. This biphasic approach has led to better results at our institution in terms of hand function and appearance, and to a decrease in total numbers of surgical procedures. Reports of others using alternative methods and schedules, also with satisfactory results, are discussed.", "contents": "Delayed definitive reconstruction of the burned hand: evolution of a program of care. Experience gained in treating patients with hand burns admitted to an active Regional Burn Center has resulted in the development of a biphasic approach which separates early healing and later reconstructive surgical procedures. This schedule permits late definitive surgery on healed functioning hands and is accomplished in a single operation in most cases. This biphasic approach has led to better results at our institution in terms of hand function and appearance, and to a decrease in total numbers of surgical procedures. Reports of others using alternative methods and schedules, also with satisfactory results, are discussed.", "PMID": 458878} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13507", "title": "The role of coronary artery injury and perfusion in the development of cardiac contusion secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma.", "content": "Myocardial contusion secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma can occur in the absence of any identifiable large vessel coronary artery occlusion or injury. It has also been reported in association with coronary artery atheromata, thrombosis, rupture, and fistula formation. After reviewing the clinical and experimental research literature, we conclude that myocardial contusion necrosis results from changes in perfusion of small vessels and the coronary microvasculature. Coronary arteriography and emergency coronary artery bypass surgery do not appear promising as therapeutic modalities to reduce myocardial necrosis in this condition. More appropriate therapeutic emphasis may result from research efforts to develop pharmacologic interventions to preserve contused myocardium similar to those currently being evaluated in the management of patients with ischemic myocardium secondary to coronary artery disease.", "contents": "The role of coronary artery injury and perfusion in the development of cardiac contusion secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma. Myocardial contusion secondary to nonpenetrating chest trauma can occur in the absence of any identifiable large vessel coronary artery occlusion or injury. It has also been reported in association with coronary artery atheromata, thrombosis, rupture, and fistula formation. After reviewing the clinical and experimental research literature, we conclude that myocardial contusion necrosis results from changes in perfusion of small vessels and the coronary microvasculature. Coronary arteriography and emergency coronary artery bypass surgery do not appear promising as therapeutic modalities to reduce myocardial necrosis in this condition. More appropriate therapeutic emphasis may result from research efforts to develop pharmacologic interventions to preserve contused myocardium similar to those currently being evaluated in the management of patients with ischemic myocardium secondary to coronary artery disease.", "PMID": 458879} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13508", "title": "An emergency medical system approach to disaster planning.", "content": "The increasing prevalence of terrorist attacks and natural disasters has mandated that more emphasis be placed on emergency disaster planning. The report focuses on the 1976 Courthouse bombing in Boston, which generated 20 casualties. Ambulance response by Boston's Emergency Medical Service system was made in 2.5 minutes and all victims were transported from the scene within 20 minutes. Successful management of this incident employed several important principles of disaster planning. These include the initial medical response, staging at the scene, and hospital notification. Additionally, the concept of triage as an integral part of disaster planning is explained with examples of the on-site medical stabilization and treatment of casualties. The importance of these concepts in practice and the necessity of close coordination of ambulance response and the responses of other emergency agencies, i.e., Police and Fire, were clearly demonstrated in the disaster which resulted from the Courthouse bombing.", "contents": "An emergency medical system approach to disaster planning. The increasing prevalence of terrorist attacks and natural disasters has mandated that more emphasis be placed on emergency disaster planning. The report focuses on the 1976 Courthouse bombing in Boston, which generated 20 casualties. Ambulance response by Boston's Emergency Medical Service system was made in 2.5 minutes and all victims were transported from the scene within 20 minutes. Successful management of this incident employed several important principles of disaster planning. These include the initial medical response, staging at the scene, and hospital notification. Additionally, the concept of triage as an integral part of disaster planning is explained with examples of the on-site medical stabilization and treatment of casualties. The importance of these concepts in practice and the necessity of close coordination of ambulance response and the responses of other emergency agencies, i.e., Police and Fire, were clearly demonstrated in the disaster which resulted from the Courthouse bombing.", "PMID": 458880} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13509", "title": "Computed tomography of post-traumatic extracerebral hematomas: comparison to pathophysiology and responses to therapy.", "content": "One hundred nine head-injured patients with epidural and acute and chronic subdural hematomas were evaluated by computed tomography (CT). Eighty-two patients had subsequent CT examinations in order to evaluate postoperative changes and responses to therapy. Results seen on CT studies were compared to patients' neurologic status at the time of scanning. The rapid return of the appearance of the brain and the patients' neurologic status to normal soon after evacuation of an uncomplicated epidural hematoma reflect the lack of parenchymal damage. In contrast, acute subdurals are usually produced by associated contusions or cortical lacerations. The mass effect of these parenchymal lesions is responsible for a degree of ventricular shift out of proportion to the usual small size of the acute subdural. Small acute subdurals managed medically and residual collections found after evacuation resolved spontaneously. No acute subdurals progressed to a chronic subdural. The latter are infrequently associated with cerebral parenchymal injury and their symptoms are due to the size of the collections. Deformity of the underlying brain by the chronic process and slow re-expansion of the brain account for the common finding of a slowly resorbing, residual fluid collection following surgical evacuation.", "contents": "Computed tomography of post-traumatic extracerebral hematomas: comparison to pathophysiology and responses to therapy. One hundred nine head-injured patients with epidural and acute and chronic subdural hematomas were evaluated by computed tomography (CT). Eighty-two patients had subsequent CT examinations in order to evaluate postoperative changes and responses to therapy. Results seen on CT studies were compared to patients' neurologic status at the time of scanning. The rapid return of the appearance of the brain and the patients' neurologic status to normal soon after evacuation of an uncomplicated epidural hematoma reflect the lack of parenchymal damage. In contrast, acute subdurals are usually produced by associated contusions or cortical lacerations. The mass effect of these parenchymal lesions is responsible for a degree of ventricular shift out of proportion to the usual small size of the acute subdural. Small acute subdurals managed medically and residual collections found after evacuation resolved spontaneously. No acute subdurals progressed to a chronic subdural. The latter are infrequently associated with cerebral parenchymal injury and their symptoms are due to the size of the collections. Deformity of the underlying brain by the chronic process and slow re-expansion of the brain account for the common finding of a slowly resorbing, residual fluid collection following surgical evacuation.", "PMID": 458881} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13510", "title": "Energy transfer and regional blood flow changes following missile trauma.", "content": "The hemodynamic response to missile injury was studied in the hind legs of dogs. Spherical projectiles were used and velocity and mass were varied. The regional arterial blood flow to the injured thigh was recorded and the energy transfer to the tissues determined. In addition the presence within the aortic arch was recorded immediately after the impact of the missile. Missile penetration caused a marked peak of flow followed by a less pronounced elevation of the flow level for at least 30 minutes. The magnitude of the peak was related to the amount of energy transferred to the tissues. The origin of the circulatory changes is discussed. Shock waves of considerable magnitude were recorded within the aortic arch in connection with the bullet penetration.", "contents": "Energy transfer and regional blood flow changes following missile trauma. The hemodynamic response to missile injury was studied in the hind legs of dogs. Spherical projectiles were used and velocity and mass were varied. The regional arterial blood flow to the injured thigh was recorded and the energy transfer to the tissues determined. In addition the presence within the aortic arch was recorded immediately after the impact of the missile. Missile penetration caused a marked peak of flow followed by a less pronounced elevation of the flow level for at least 30 minutes. The magnitude of the peak was related to the amount of energy transferred to the tissues. The origin of the circulatory changes is discussed. Shock waves of considerable magnitude were recorded within the aortic arch in connection with the bullet penetration.", "PMID": 458882} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13511", "title": "Early fibular bypass procedures (tibiofibular synostosis) for massive bone loss in war injuries.", "content": "The techniques of fibular bypass grafting for massive tibial bone loss have been well described over the past 50 years. These techniques have generally been used as salvage procedures in post-traumatic civilian patients with chronic sepsis, or for congenital pseudoarthrosis. We present the experience of the Orthopaedic Department of the Hadassah University Hospital in successfully treating massive tibial bone loss by early fibular bypass grafting in four war injuries, where such definitive procedures would have been avoided in the past.", "contents": "Early fibular bypass procedures (tibiofibular synostosis) for massive bone loss in war injuries. The techniques of fibular bypass grafting for massive tibial bone loss have been well described over the past 50 years. These techniques have generally been used as salvage procedures in post-traumatic civilian patients with chronic sepsis, or for congenital pseudoarthrosis. We present the experience of the Orthopaedic Department of the Hadassah University Hospital in successfully treating massive tibial bone loss by early fibular bypass grafting in four war injuries, where such definitive procedures would have been avoided in the past.", "PMID": 458883} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13512", "title": "Fractures of the humerus, radius, and ulna in the same extremity.", "content": "Fracture of the humerus, radius, and ulna is a rare combined injury. In our review of 21 cases, it was found that this injury was usually a result of rather severe trauma. There are frequently associated injuries to other organ systems. The most common associated injury was residual nerve damage, which occurred in over 50% of cases. Of all the different treatment modalities no one was found to be better than the others.", "contents": "Fractures of the humerus, radius, and ulna in the same extremity. Fracture of the humerus, radius, and ulna is a rare combined injury. In our review of 21 cases, it was found that this injury was usually a result of rather severe trauma. There are frequently associated injuries to other organ systems. The most common associated injury was residual nerve damage, which occurred in over 50% of cases. Of all the different treatment modalities no one was found to be better than the others.", "PMID": 458884} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13513", "title": "Unreduced posterior dislocation of the elbow.", "content": "Six unreduced posterior dislocations of the elbow are reported and the clinical details, operative procedures, and results obtained are presented. The literature is reviewed and the necessity of triceps V-Y plasty at operation discussed.", "contents": "Unreduced posterior dislocation of the elbow. Six unreduced posterior dislocations of the elbow are reported and the clinical details, operative procedures, and results obtained are presented. The literature is reviewed and the necessity of triceps V-Y plasty at operation discussed.", "PMID": 458885} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13514", "title": "Osteochondral fracture associated with dislocation of the patella: another mechanism of injury.", "content": "An apparently not previously reported type of osteochondral fracture of the lateral femoral condyle associated with dislocation of the patella is presented. The mechanism of the fracture is described as forced inward rotation of the femur against the tibia. Internal fixation is the surgical treatment of choice in this type of fracture.", "contents": "Osteochondral fracture associated with dislocation of the patella: another mechanism of injury. An apparently not previously reported type of osteochondral fracture of the lateral femoral condyle associated with dislocation of the patella is presented. The mechanism of the fracture is described as forced inward rotation of the femur against the tibia. Internal fixation is the surgical treatment of choice in this type of fracture.", "PMID": 458886} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13515", "title": "Late false aneurysm of the carotid artery: repair with extra-intracranial arterial bypass.", "content": "A patient with a rapidly enlarging symptomatic false aneurysm of the internal carotid artery 30 years after nonoperative treatment of a penetrating neck injury is presented. Preoperative compression of the aneurysm precipitated transient cerebral ischemic attacks. Complete interruption of the right internal carotid artery inflow during aneurysmectomy was considered to be fraught with great danger. An extra-intracranial arterial bypass was therefore performed, and then aneurysmorrhaphy was easily performed and saphenous vein graft interposition accomplished. The importance of early definitive treatment of arterial injuries is emphasized. The bypass used allowed additional cerebral blood flow when complete occlusion of the carotid artery was contraindicated.", "contents": "Late false aneurysm of the carotid artery: repair with extra-intracranial arterial bypass. A patient with a rapidly enlarging symptomatic false aneurysm of the internal carotid artery 30 years after nonoperative treatment of a penetrating neck injury is presented. Preoperative compression of the aneurysm precipitated transient cerebral ischemic attacks. Complete interruption of the right internal carotid artery inflow during aneurysmectomy was considered to be fraught with great danger. An extra-intracranial arterial bypass was therefore performed, and then aneurysmorrhaphy was easily performed and saphenous vein graft interposition accomplished. The importance of early definitive treatment of arterial injuries is emphasized. The bypass used allowed additional cerebral blood flow when complete occlusion of the carotid artery was contraindicated.", "PMID": 458887} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13516", "title": "Injury to the suprascapular nerve associated with anterior dislocation of the shoulder: case report and review of the literature.", "content": "A young man with persistent pain beginning 2 days following reduction of an anterior subcoracoid dislocation was found to have a suprascapular nerve injury. The patient described was felt to have a neurapraxia of the suprascapular nerve. Possible causes of post-reduction subluxation are interposition of the shoulder joint capsule or biceps tendon, or rupture of the rotator cuff. EMG in 3 weeks, followup examinations, and active assisted motion 4 to 6 weeks postinjury are recommended.", "contents": "Injury to the suprascapular nerve associated with anterior dislocation of the shoulder: case report and review of the literature. A young man with persistent pain beginning 2 days following reduction of an anterior subcoracoid dislocation was found to have a suprascapular nerve injury. The patient described was felt to have a neurapraxia of the suprascapular nerve. Possible causes of post-reduction subluxation are interposition of the shoulder joint capsule or biceps tendon, or rupture of the rotator cuff. EMG in 3 weeks, followup examinations, and active assisted motion 4 to 6 weeks postinjury are recommended.", "PMID": 458888} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13517", "title": "An unusual fracture of the vertebral articular process in a skier.", "content": "An unusual vertical fracture through the superior articular process of L5 is described in a professional skier. This fracture, not associated with a pars interarticularis defect, is felt to be stress related. Standard oblique radiographs failed to demonstrate the defect but it was seen clearly on steep oblique views. The fracture was the casue of chronic backache to the patient. Followup radiographs after 14 months demonstrated a nonunion of the fracture.", "contents": "An unusual fracture of the vertebral articular process in a skier. An unusual vertical fracture through the superior articular process of L5 is described in a professional skier. This fracture, not associated with a pars interarticularis defect, is felt to be stress related. Standard oblique radiographs failed to demonstrate the defect but it was seen clearly on steep oblique views. The fracture was the casue of chronic backache to the patient. Followup radiographs after 14 months demonstrated a nonunion of the fracture.", "PMID": 458889} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13518", "title": "The unchanged mortality of flail chest injuries.", "content": "Six hundred eighty-five patients with major blunt thoracic injuries from 1968 through 1977 were retrospectively studied. This series was compared to a similar series from 1959 through 1964. Between 1964 and 1968 a vastly improved hospital was built, laboratory support improved, pressure-controlled ventilators replaced by volume-controlled ventilators and the trauma service was reorganized. The treatment regimen for flail chest injuries during the last decade evolved from the previous early tracheostomy and prolonged ventilator support to an avoidance of tracheostomy and brief ventilator support. The overall mortality in the present series was 20% compared to 35% for the 1959--1964 series; however, improved mortality occurred only among patients with hemothorax who had one or more major concomitant extrathoracic injuries. The mortality for flail chest injuries did not improve (29.5 vs 35.0%). Mortality was unchanged for isolated flail chest injuries, isolated pneumothorax, isolated hemothorax, and for flail chest injuries, and pneumothorax in patients with concomitant major extrathoracic injuries. In both series deaths from isolated thoracic injuries were rare. It is evident that the continued high mortality for blunt thoracic trauma principally relates to concomitant extrathoracic injuries and that recent treatment innovations have not reduced the mortality of flail chest injuries.", "contents": "The unchanged mortality of flail chest injuries. Six hundred eighty-five patients with major blunt thoracic injuries from 1968 through 1977 were retrospectively studied. This series was compared to a similar series from 1959 through 1964. Between 1964 and 1968 a vastly improved hospital was built, laboratory support improved, pressure-controlled ventilators replaced by volume-controlled ventilators and the trauma service was reorganized. The treatment regimen for flail chest injuries during the last decade evolved from the previous early tracheostomy and prolonged ventilator support to an avoidance of tracheostomy and brief ventilator support. The overall mortality in the present series was 20% compared to 35% for the 1959--1964 series; however, improved mortality occurred only among patients with hemothorax who had one or more major concomitant extrathoracic injuries. The mortality for flail chest injuries did not improve (29.5 vs 35.0%). Mortality was unchanged for isolated flail chest injuries, isolated pneumothorax, isolated hemothorax, and for flail chest injuries, and pneumothorax in patients with concomitant major extrathoracic injuries. In both series deaths from isolated thoracic injuries were rare. It is evident that the continued high mortality for blunt thoracic trauma principally relates to concomitant extrathoracic injuries and that recent treatment innovations have not reduced the mortality of flail chest injuries.", "PMID": 458891} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13519", "title": "Intracranial pressure monitoring in the acute neurologic assessment of multi-injured patients.", "content": "The trauma victim with a severe closed head injury, who requires general anesthesia for emergency repair of concomitant exigent major injuries, poses a clinical dilemma. During general anesthesia and during the immediate postoperative period, the status of the patient's central nervous system cannot be clinically monitored, and emergency cerebral arteriograms and/or CAT scans are not easily obtained. Under these circumstances, delays in the diagnosis of intracranial blood accumulations frequently occur, and occult cerebral edema often goes untreated. In an attempt to avoid these management problems, we have employed intraoperative intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring in such patients, using a subarachnoid screw. Following placement of this screw, several clinical courses may occur: 1) The patient maintains a normal pressure; thus a significant mass lesion and/or cerebral edema requiring decompression is unlikely. 2) The patient's ICP is elevated but controlled by medical management. 3) The patient's ICP cannot be controlled below 20 to 25 mm Hg using medical management, and exploratory burr holes are made. 4) If intracranial blood is encountered during placement of the ICP monitor, immediate exploratory craniotomy is indicated.", "contents": "Intracranial pressure monitoring in the acute neurologic assessment of multi-injured patients. The trauma victim with a severe closed head injury, who requires general anesthesia for emergency repair of concomitant exigent major injuries, poses a clinical dilemma. During general anesthesia and during the immediate postoperative period, the status of the patient's central nervous system cannot be clinically monitored, and emergency cerebral arteriograms and/or CAT scans are not easily obtained. Under these circumstances, delays in the diagnosis of intracranial blood accumulations frequently occur, and occult cerebral edema often goes untreated. In an attempt to avoid these management problems, we have employed intraoperative intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring in such patients, using a subarachnoid screw. Following placement of this screw, several clinical courses may occur: 1) The patient maintains a normal pressure; thus a significant mass lesion and/or cerebral edema requiring decompression is unlikely. 2) The patient's ICP is elevated but controlled by medical management. 3) The patient's ICP cannot be controlled below 20 to 25 mm Hg using medical management, and exploratory burr holes are made. 4) If intracranial blood is encountered during placement of the ICP monitor, immediate exploratory craniotomy is indicated.", "PMID": 458892} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13520", "title": "Fresh-frozen plasma vs. plasma protein derivative as adjunctive therapy for patients with massive burns.", "content": "Twenty patients with burn injuries involving 45% or more total body surface area were randomly allocated to receive either fresh-frozen plasma (plasma), 200 ml/m2/d (11 patients), or an approximately equal amount of plasma protein derivative (Plasmanate) (nine patients) during the first 45 days postburn. To study the potential effects of these two adjunctive therapies on host resistance to infection, measurements were made twice weekly of the antibacterial funciton of neutrophils, the opsonic index (ability to opsonize alternative pathway dependent E. coli 075), C3(B), IgG, properdin, factor B, total protein, and albumin. The average size of burn in the plasma group was 61.5% total and 42% 3 degrees compared with 61% total and 46% 3 degrees in the Plasmanate group. Ten and 18 episodes of bacteremia occurred in the plasma and Plasmanate groups, respectively. Analysis of the results indicates only slightly better support of host resistance when plasma is administered, but this is counterbalanced by the increased risk of viral hepatitis.", "contents": "Fresh-frozen plasma vs. plasma protein derivative as adjunctive therapy for patients with massive burns. Twenty patients with burn injuries involving 45% or more total body surface area were randomly allocated to receive either fresh-frozen plasma (plasma), 200 ml/m2/d (11 patients), or an approximately equal amount of plasma protein derivative (Plasmanate) (nine patients) during the first 45 days postburn. To study the potential effects of these two adjunctive therapies on host resistance to infection, measurements were made twice weekly of the antibacterial funciton of neutrophils, the opsonic index (ability to opsonize alternative pathway dependent E. coli 075), C3(B), IgG, properdin, factor B, total protein, and albumin. The average size of burn in the plasma group was 61.5% total and 42% 3 degrees compared with 61% total and 46% 3 degrees in the Plasmanate group. Ten and 18 episodes of bacteremia occurred in the plasma and Plasmanate groups, respectively. Analysis of the results indicates only slightly better support of host resistance when plasma is administered, but this is counterbalanced by the increased risk of viral hepatitis.", "PMID": 458893} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13521", "title": "Early mortality and temperature regulation in burned mice following administration of catecholamines and adrenergic receptor blocking drugs.", "content": "The effect of catecholamines and adrenergic receptor blocking drugs on mortality and body temperature was studied in mice subjected to burn, tourniquet, and endotoxin shock at an environmental temperature of 25 degrees C. Epinephrine and norepinephrine (0.5 mg/kg) injected intraperitoneally postburn increased shock mortality significantly (p less than 0.05); pretreatment with these catecholamines had no effect. Pretreatment of burn- and tourniquet-traumatized mice with propranolol (25 mg/kg) significantly decreased shock mortality, while pretreatment with dibenamine (25 mg/kg) significantly lowered early mortality after endotoxin. None of the catecholamines or their blocking drugs significantly prevented the characteristic immediate fall in core temperature after the three types of shock. At 6 days postburn, however, a combination of propranolol and dibenamine caused a marked fall in core temperature (p less than 0.05). These results indicate that beta-catecholamine agonists could play an important role in acute burn mortality and that both alpha- and beta-catecholamine agonists could significantly influence body temperature regulation and metabolic rate during the late postburn period.", "contents": "Early mortality and temperature regulation in burned mice following administration of catecholamines and adrenergic receptor blocking drugs. The effect of catecholamines and adrenergic receptor blocking drugs on mortality and body temperature was studied in mice subjected to burn, tourniquet, and endotoxin shock at an environmental temperature of 25 degrees C. Epinephrine and norepinephrine (0.5 mg/kg) injected intraperitoneally postburn increased shock mortality significantly (p less than 0.05); pretreatment with these catecholamines had no effect. Pretreatment of burn- and tourniquet-traumatized mice with propranolol (25 mg/kg) significantly decreased shock mortality, while pretreatment with dibenamine (25 mg/kg) significantly lowered early mortality after endotoxin. None of the catecholamines or their blocking drugs significantly prevented the characteristic immediate fall in core temperature after the three types of shock. At 6 days postburn, however, a combination of propranolol and dibenamine caused a marked fall in core temperature (p less than 0.05). These results indicate that beta-catecholamine agonists could play an important role in acute burn mortality and that both alpha- and beta-catecholamine agonists could significantly influence body temperature regulation and metabolic rate during the late postburn period.", "PMID": 458894} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13522", "title": "Special problems of cardiac injuries in infants and children.", "content": "Cardiac injuries occur infrequently in children. Although the mechanisms of injury are not unique to the pediatric age group, the frequency of the various injuries is quite different. This unusual nature dictates an enhanced awareness for proper management. Twenty cases were recognized in a 16-year retrospective review. There were six children with perforations from cardiac catheterizations, ten children with penetrating injuries, and four children with blunt injuries. Two of the children with blunt injuries presented as myocardial contusion and one child survived blunt rupture of the right atrium. Only one death occurred in the series--a newborn baby who died from an unrecognized cardiac tamponade secondary to perforation of the right ventricle during catheterization. The diagnosis and special techniques for management of injuries due to catheter perforation and blunt injuries of the heart in infants and children are discussed.", "contents": "Special problems of cardiac injuries in infants and children. Cardiac injuries occur infrequently in children. Although the mechanisms of injury are not unique to the pediatric age group, the frequency of the various injuries is quite different. This unusual nature dictates an enhanced awareness for proper management. Twenty cases were recognized in a 16-year retrospective review. There were six children with perforations from cardiac catheterizations, ten children with penetrating injuries, and four children with blunt injuries. Two of the children with blunt injuries presented as myocardial contusion and one child survived blunt rupture of the right atrium. Only one death occurred in the series--a newborn baby who died from an unrecognized cardiac tamponade secondary to perforation of the right ventricle during catheterization. The diagnosis and special techniques for management of injuries due to catheter perforation and blunt injuries of the heart in infants and children are discussed.", "PMID": 458895} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13523", "title": "Vascular trauma in infants and children.", "content": "A 20-year retrospective evaluation of vascular trauma in infants and children was undertaken. The study included 53 cases of blunt and penetrating vascular injuries in pediatric patients. There were 36 males and 17 females ranging in age from 24 days to 14 years (average, 10 years). The most frequently encountered sites of arterial trauma were the brachial or superficial femoral artery, and of venous trauma the inferior vena cava. Any patient presenting to the Emergency Center with an injury in proximity to a major vessel, hematoma formation, audible bruit, or palpable thrill underwent prompt arteriography or immediate operative exploration of the injury sit. All patients in the series were managed operatively. There were 41 major arterial and 32 major venous injuries. No patient required a major amputation. Most injuries were repaired by primary closure or segmental resection and end-to-end anastomosis; interposition vein grafts and substitute conduits were used in four patients with more extensive injuries. A 13% operative mortality was encountered: the most frequent cause of death was intraoperative exsanguinating hemorrhage. The triad for successful management of vascular trauma in pediatric patients is: 1) a high index of suspicion, 2) performance of aggressive diagnostic studies when indicated, and 3) prompt surgical intervention.", "contents": "Vascular trauma in infants and children. A 20-year retrospective evaluation of vascular trauma in infants and children was undertaken. The study included 53 cases of blunt and penetrating vascular injuries in pediatric patients. There were 36 males and 17 females ranging in age from 24 days to 14 years (average, 10 years). The most frequently encountered sites of arterial trauma were the brachial or superficial femoral artery, and of venous trauma the inferior vena cava. Any patient presenting to the Emergency Center with an injury in proximity to a major vessel, hematoma formation, audible bruit, or palpable thrill underwent prompt arteriography or immediate operative exploration of the injury sit. All patients in the series were managed operatively. There were 41 major arterial and 32 major venous injuries. No patient required a major amputation. Most injuries were repaired by primary closure or segmental resection and end-to-end anastomosis; interposition vein grafts and substitute conduits were used in four patients with more extensive injuries. A 13% operative mortality was encountered: the most frequent cause of death was intraoperative exsanguinating hemorrhage. The triad for successful management of vascular trauma in pediatric patients is: 1) a high index of suspicion, 2) performance of aggressive diagnostic studies when indicated, and 3) prompt surgical intervention.", "PMID": 458896} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13524", "title": "Management of supracondylar fracture with brachial artery thrombosis in a child: case report and literature review.", "content": "Brachial artery thrombosis following prompt reduction of a supracondylar fracture of the humerus in a 7-year old is described. Persisting absence of the distal pulses in a viable extremity may herald the insidious development of Volkmann's ischemia. Pulse volume recordings provide a safe, objective means of evaluation. Arteriography by direct open technique avoids the hazards of percutaneous puncture in children.", "contents": "Management of supracondylar fracture with brachial artery thrombosis in a child: case report and literature review. Brachial artery thrombosis following prompt reduction of a supracondylar fracture of the humerus in a 7-year old is described. Persisting absence of the distal pulses in a viable extremity may herald the insidious development of Volkmann's ischemia. Pulse volume recordings provide a safe, objective means of evaluation. Arteriography by direct open technique avoids the hazards of percutaneous puncture in children.", "PMID": 458898} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13525", "title": "False aneurysm of axillary artery following resection of a traumatized humeral head: case report.", "content": "A case of false aneurysm and damage to the neurovascular bundle as a late complication to excision of a shattered humeral head is described. The authors advocate smoothing of the end of the remaining diaphyseal part of the humerus and, further, that if a swelling in the operative area occurs postoperatively, arteriography should be performed.", "contents": "False aneurysm of axillary artery following resection of a traumatized humeral head: case report. A case of false aneurysm and damage to the neurovascular bundle as a late complication to excision of a shattered humeral head is described. The authors advocate smoothing of the end of the remaining diaphyseal part of the humerus and, further, that if a swelling in the operative area occurs postoperatively, arteriography should be performed.", "PMID": 458899} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13526", "title": "A follow-up study of paraplegics and tetraplegics discharged from hospital.", "content": "A study was conducted to investigate to what extent 76 paraplegics and tetraplegics were able to cope with their environment after discharge from hospital. The results showed that automobile accidents were responsible for most cases of paraplegia and tetraplegia; most patients died within one year of discharge from hospital; there was a significant differential in the survival rate between the upper and lower class patients in favour of the former; the younger the patient the longer was his chances of survival; the higher the lesion the greater were the chances of wife desertion among subjects and the lesser was the chance of survival; and finally none of the subjects except one was employed after discharge from hospital.", "contents": "A follow-up study of paraplegics and tetraplegics discharged from hospital. A study was conducted to investigate to what extent 76 paraplegics and tetraplegics were able to cope with their environment after discharge from hospital. The results showed that automobile accidents were responsible for most cases of paraplegia and tetraplegia; most patients died within one year of discharge from hospital; there was a significant differential in the survival rate between the upper and lower class patients in favour of the former; the younger the patient the longer was his chances of survival; the higher the lesion the greater were the chances of wife desertion among subjects and the lesser was the chance of survival; and finally none of the subjects except one was employed after discharge from hospital.", "PMID": 458903} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13527", "title": "Case report of an ovarian hydatid cyst.", "content": "Hydatid cyst is a parasitic disease caused by Taenia echinococcus. The first and most important site for this parasite is the liver. Secondary involvement of the pelvic organs is seen. However, the primary involvement is very rare. Here we are reporting a case with primary involvement of the ovary which underwent laparotomy and was proven by microscopic studies.", "contents": "Case report of an ovarian hydatid cyst. Hydatid cyst is a parasitic disease caused by Taenia echinococcus. The first and most important site for this parasite is the liver. Secondary involvement of the pelvic organs is seen. However, the primary involvement is very rare. Here we are reporting a case with primary involvement of the ovary which underwent laparotomy and was proven by microscopic studies.", "PMID": 458904} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13528", "title": "Cardiac arrest after intravenous chloroquine injection.", "content": "In cases of severe malaria chloroquine phosphate is frequently given--diluted or undiluted--by the intravenous route. It is known that cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension may complicate such therapy, but cardiac arrest is not a well recognised hazard. In this report we describe such a tragic complication, and advocate that undiluted chloroquine should not be administered intravenously in severely ill patients since such patients usually have associated electrolyte disturbances which may render the heart vulnerable to toxic drugs. Chloroquine may be given diluted in normal saline infused over several hours with a close watch over the blood pressure.", "contents": "Cardiac arrest after intravenous chloroquine injection. In cases of severe malaria chloroquine phosphate is frequently given--diluted or undiluted--by the intravenous route. It is known that cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension may complicate such therapy, but cardiac arrest is not a well recognised hazard. In this report we describe such a tragic complication, and advocate that undiluted chloroquine should not be administered intravenously in severely ill patients since such patients usually have associated electrolyte disturbances which may render the heart vulnerable to toxic drugs. Chloroquine may be given diluted in normal saline infused over several hours with a close watch over the blood pressure.", "PMID": 458905} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13529", "title": "Tuberculosis presenting with hemiplegia.", "content": "Five cases are reported of tuberculous patients who presented with hemiplegia as the initial symptom of their illness. In three patients the paralysis improved rapidly and completely with institution of antituberculous treatment. One case which came to necropsy revealed that the cause of the hemiplegia was a tuberculoma situated in the internal capsule.", "contents": "Tuberculosis presenting with hemiplegia. Five cases are reported of tuberculous patients who presented with hemiplegia as the initial symptom of their illness. In three patients the paralysis improved rapidly and completely with institution of antituberculous treatment. One case which came to necropsy revealed that the cause of the hemiplegia was a tuberculoma situated in the internal capsule.", "PMID": 458906} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13530", "title": "Progressive systemic sclerosis: a case report from nigeria and review of african cases.", "content": "A Nigerian case of progressive systemic sclerosis is described. Special attention is drawn to the rarity of this condition in Africans.", "contents": "Progressive systemic sclerosis: a case report from nigeria and review of african cases. A Nigerian case of progressive systemic sclerosis is described. Special attention is drawn to the rarity of this condition in Africans.", "PMID": 458907} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13531", "title": "Present and future developments in hearing aid design.", "content": "Although hearing aids have shown little outward change in the past decade, the development of new components has produced a steady reduction in size and improvement in performance. The near-perfect electret condenser microphone occupies a mere 50 cubic millimeters and its low vibrational sensitivity permits close packing of components without acoustic feedback problems. The integrated circuit packs a hundred components into each cubic millimeter and has allowed the miniaturization of complex aids while simultaneously boosting performance. Integrated circuits will permit future aids to compensate distorted loudness perception as a function of frequency, and extract speech signals buried in noise. These sophisticated, computerized, hearing aids will demand new evaluation and fitting methods and it is the methodology rather than the technology that will pace their development.", "contents": "Present and future developments in hearing aid design. Although hearing aids have shown little outward change in the past decade, the development of new components has produced a steady reduction in size and improvement in performance. The near-perfect electret condenser microphone occupies a mere 50 cubic millimeters and its low vibrational sensitivity permits close packing of components without acoustic feedback problems. The integrated circuit packs a hundred components into each cubic millimeter and has allowed the miniaturization of complex aids while simultaneously boosting performance. Integrated circuits will permit future aids to compensate distorted loudness perception as a function of frequency, and extract speech signals buried in noise. These sophisticated, computerized, hearing aids will demand new evaluation and fitting methods and it is the methodology rather than the technology that will pace their development.", "PMID": 458908} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13532", "title": "The role of communication aids in the rehabilitation of hearing impairment.", "content": "The primary emphasis in rehabilitating the hearing impaired has involved fitting a hearing aid. There are patients however, who can be helped by communication aids in addition to, or in place of hearing aids. Communication aids include any device, other than a conventional hearing aid, which assists the hearing impaired in maintaining contact wiht the normally hearing. In Scandinavian countries a sophisticated system for rehabilitating the hearing impaired has evolved and communication aids are recommended extensively. Similar aids exist in North America, but clinicians have not yet developed a full awareness of how these devices can benefit their patients. This paper represents the results of a two year survey undertaken to identify and evaluate various devices available in Toronto. The contribution these aids can offer in rehabilitating patients is discussed.", "contents": "The role of communication aids in the rehabilitation of hearing impairment. The primary emphasis in rehabilitating the hearing impaired has involved fitting a hearing aid. There are patients however, who can be helped by communication aids in addition to, or in place of hearing aids. Communication aids include any device, other than a conventional hearing aid, which assists the hearing impaired in maintaining contact wiht the normally hearing. In Scandinavian countries a sophisticated system for rehabilitating the hearing impaired has evolved and communication aids are recommended extensively. Similar aids exist in North America, but clinicians have not yet developed a full awareness of how these devices can benefit their patients. This paper represents the results of a two year survey undertaken to identify and evaluate various devices available in Toronto. The contribution these aids can offer in rehabilitating patients is discussed.", "PMID": 458909} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13533", "title": "Clinical experience with brain stem audiometry performed under general anesthesia.", "content": "Hearing tests were given to 22 difficult-to-test children using brain stem audiometry performed under general anesthesia. The effect of halothane and sodium thiopental on the brain stem response was assessed as well as the feasibility of using this technique with a difficult-to-test population. No effect on brain stem responses was observed to various levels of anesthesia. Successful hearing tests were carried out on all the children and results were helpful in their management. Brain stem audiometry perfromed under general anesthesia appears to be an effective and helpful technique for testing challenging diagnostic cases.", "contents": "Clinical experience with brain stem audiometry performed under general anesthesia. Hearing tests were given to 22 difficult-to-test children using brain stem audiometry performed under general anesthesia. The effect of halothane and sodium thiopental on the brain stem response was assessed as well as the feasibility of using this technique with a difficult-to-test population. No effect on brain stem responses was observed to various levels of anesthesia. Successful hearing tests were carried out on all the children and results were helpful in their management. Brain stem audiometry perfromed under general anesthesia appears to be an effective and helpful technique for testing challenging diagnostic cases.", "PMID": 458910} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13534", "title": "Brain stem audiometry: status and clinical applications of click evoked brain stem responses.", "content": "Over the past 10 years, numerous reports on click evoked brain stem responses have appeared in both the general otolaryngologic and the audiologic literature. Equipment is now commercially available, is relatively simple to operate, and permits the routine recording of these potentials. The technique is especially useful in the objective establishment of hearing thresholds in the newborn and in adult subjects and appears to be more reliable than the cortical evoked response (AEP). Other uses and applications of the technique, as in the detection of brain stem lesions and acoustic tumors, in coma and brain death, are discussed.", "contents": "Brain stem audiometry: status and clinical applications of click evoked brain stem responses. Over the past 10 years, numerous reports on click evoked brain stem responses have appeared in both the general otolaryngologic and the audiologic literature. Equipment is now commercially available, is relatively simple to operate, and permits the routine recording of these potentials. The technique is especially useful in the objective establishment of hearing thresholds in the newborn and in adult subjects and appears to be more reliable than the cortical evoked response (AEP). Other uses and applications of the technique, as in the detection of brain stem lesions and acoustic tumors, in coma and brain death, are discussed.", "PMID": 458911} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13535", "title": "Seeding of parotid carcinoma along Vim-Silverman needle tract.", "content": "A case report of seeding of parotid carcinoma along a core biopsy needle tract is presented. Excision of the needle biopsy site at the time of definitive surgery is recommended. Aspiration needle biopsy with a fine needle is reliable, with tumor seeding less likely.", "contents": "Seeding of parotid carcinoma along Vim-Silverman needle tract. A case report of seeding of parotid carcinoma along a core biopsy needle tract is presented. Excision of the needle biopsy site at the time of definitive surgery is recommended. Aspiration needle biopsy with a fine needle is reliable, with tumor seeding less likely.", "PMID": 458912} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13536", "title": "Some aspects of therapy in the non-healing granulomas of Wegener and Stewart.", "content": "The non-healing granulomas of Wegener and Stewart (Wegener's granuloma and lethal midline granuloma) have been recognized since 1897. A mainstay of therapy has been the empirical application of treatments based upon theoretical or pathological assumption, and we are only slightly closer to classifying these diseases. Between 1967 and 1975 eight patients with non-healing granuloma of Wegener's type, and one patient with non-healing granuloma of Stewart's type, presented to the Otolaryngology Service of the conjoined McGill University Hospitals. All received corticosteriods and all those with the Wegener type of granuloma received azathioprine (Immuran). Four patients are alive and well today from five months to eight years and 10 months after starting therapy. Some aspects of the changing historical, clinical, pathologic, and therapeutic indices of these diseases are presented, with our experiences in these areas.", "contents": "Some aspects of therapy in the non-healing granulomas of Wegener and Stewart. The non-healing granulomas of Wegener and Stewart (Wegener's granuloma and lethal midline granuloma) have been recognized since 1897. A mainstay of therapy has been the empirical application of treatments based upon theoretical or pathological assumption, and we are only slightly closer to classifying these diseases. Between 1967 and 1975 eight patients with non-healing granuloma of Wegener's type, and one patient with non-healing granuloma of Stewart's type, presented to the Otolaryngology Service of the conjoined McGill University Hospitals. All received corticosteriods and all those with the Wegener type of granuloma received azathioprine (Immuran). Four patients are alive and well today from five months to eight years and 10 months after starting therapy. Some aspects of the changing historical, clinical, pathologic, and therapeutic indices of these diseases are presented, with our experiences in these areas.", "PMID": 458913} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13537", "title": "Chronic middle ear disease with intracranial extension--a clinicopathologic case report.", "content": "A case is presented with chronic suppurative otitis media and subsequent tympanogenic labyrinthitis, extradural abscess, and otogenic meningitis. The clinical course is described and pathologic findings demonstrated using serial temporal bone sections. The difficulties of diagnosing and treating this clinical condition are illustrated.", "contents": "Chronic middle ear disease with intracranial extension--a clinicopathologic case report. A case is presented with chronic suppurative otitis media and subsequent tympanogenic labyrinthitis, extradural abscess, and otogenic meningitis. The clinical course is described and pathologic findings demonstrated using serial temporal bone sections. The difficulties of diagnosing and treating this clinical condition are illustrated.", "PMID": 458914} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13538", "title": "The Nakasuk Project- the conservative treatment of chronic otitis media in Inuit elementary school children.", "content": "Modalities of local medical treatment of chronic otitis media in Inuit elementary school children were evaluated over a period of three and a half years in a project associated with the provision of amplification (hearing aids) for students who had significant conductive hearing deficits which interfered with their ability to communicate. The significant medical and educational benefits derived are reviewed.", "contents": "The Nakasuk Project- the conservative treatment of chronic otitis media in Inuit elementary school children. Modalities of local medical treatment of chronic otitis media in Inuit elementary school children were evaluated over a period of three and a half years in a project associated with the provision of amplification (hearing aids) for students who had significant conductive hearing deficits which interfered with their ability to communicate. The significant medical and educational benefits derived are reviewed.", "PMID": 458916} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13539", "title": "Impedance audiometry in a young population. The effect of age, sex, and tympanogram abnormalities.", "content": "Static compliance, and acoustic reflex thresholds, were studied retrospectively in 883 subjects, aged one to 20 years. Age was a factor in both measurements. In 523 subjects with normal middle ear fuction, static compliance increased as a function of age. Acoustic reflex thresholds for pure tone signals improved with age, while acoustic reflex thresholds for broad band noise (BBN) tended to decrease. Minor tympanogram abnormalities exerted a distinct influence on static compliance and acoustic reflex thresholds. Static compliance was increased, and highly variable, in 93 subjects with A-deep tympanograms. In 212 subjects with either A-deep tympanograms, or slight negative pressure (i.e. -50 to -100 mm H2O), acoustic reflex thresholds were elevated for both pure tone, and BBN signals. In 132 sensorineural impaired subjects, the sensitivity loss differentially affected acoustic reflex thresholds for pure tone vs BBN signals. In view of the potential influence of age, and, especially, minor middle ear abnormalities, on static compliance and acoustic reflex measures, these factors should be seriously considered when interpreting impedance audiometry findings in children.", "contents": "Impedance audiometry in a young population. The effect of age, sex, and tympanogram abnormalities. Static compliance, and acoustic reflex thresholds, were studied retrospectively in 883 subjects, aged one to 20 years. Age was a factor in both measurements. In 523 subjects with normal middle ear fuction, static compliance increased as a function of age. Acoustic reflex thresholds for pure tone signals improved with age, while acoustic reflex thresholds for broad band noise (BBN) tended to decrease. Minor tympanogram abnormalities exerted a distinct influence on static compliance and acoustic reflex thresholds. Static compliance was increased, and highly variable, in 93 subjects with A-deep tympanograms. In 212 subjects with either A-deep tympanograms, or slight negative pressure (i.e. -50 to -100 mm H2O), acoustic reflex thresholds were elevated for both pure tone, and BBN signals. In 132 sensorineural impaired subjects, the sensitivity loss differentially affected acoustic reflex thresholds for pure tone vs BBN signals. In view of the potential influence of age, and, especially, minor middle ear abnormalities, on static compliance and acoustic reflex measures, these factors should be seriously considered when interpreting impedance audiometry findings in children.", "PMID": 458917} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13540", "title": "Audiologic evaluation of patients with localized intracranial lesions.", "content": "A battery of audiological tests for retrocochlear disorders was performed of 79 cases with localized intracranial lesions confirmed surgically or neurologically. The Type III trace of B\u00e9k\u00e9sy audiometry was found to originate from pathologies in the brainstem and the Type IV from abnormalities in the first neuron of the VIIIth nerve or in the brainstem. It was suggested that an unusually large amplitude peak in the B\u00e9k\u00e9sy tracing indicates a lesion in the temporal lobe. Large values of differential limen for short increment (DLSI) were found in patients with brainstem lesions. A good speech discrimination with a poor filtered speech discrimination apparently indicated supratentorial lesions. The binaural separation test using dichotically presented digit sounds was found to be helpful for differential diagnosis between the supratentorial and subtentorial lesions.", "contents": "Audiologic evaluation of patients with localized intracranial lesions. A battery of audiological tests for retrocochlear disorders was performed of 79 cases with localized intracranial lesions confirmed surgically or neurologically. The Type III trace of B\u00e9k\u00e9sy audiometry was found to originate from pathologies in the brainstem and the Type IV from abnormalities in the first neuron of the VIIIth nerve or in the brainstem. It was suggested that an unusually large amplitude peak in the B\u00e9k\u00e9sy tracing indicates a lesion in the temporal lobe. Large values of differential limen for short increment (DLSI) were found in patients with brainstem lesions. A good speech discrimination with a poor filtered speech discrimination apparently indicated supratentorial lesions. The binaural separation test using dichotically presented digit sounds was found to be helpful for differential diagnosis between the supratentorial and subtentorial lesions.", "PMID": 458918} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13541", "title": "The bite in the temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome.", "content": "After reviewing the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint, the soft tissue classification of this syndrome is divided into three groups: macrotrauma, microtrauma, and stress situation. In each group, the etiology, physical findings, pathophysiology, and treatment are discussed. Bite assessment is reviewed so that the otolaryngologists will have a fuller understanding of the role that occlusal status plays in this syndrome. Before contemplating surgery, this status should be assessed by a competent dental colleague.", "contents": "The bite in the temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome. After reviewing the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint, the soft tissue classification of this syndrome is divided into three groups: macrotrauma, microtrauma, and stress situation. In each group, the etiology, physical findings, pathophysiology, and treatment are discussed. Bite assessment is reviewed so that the otolaryngologists will have a fuller understanding of the role that occlusal status plays in this syndrome. Before contemplating surgery, this status should be assessed by a competent dental colleague.", "PMID": 458919} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13542", "title": "Granulomatous osteomyelitis of the maxillary sinus.", "content": "A case of granulomatous osteomyelitis of the maxilla, probably due to tuberculosis is reported, and the literature reviewed. Excision of the diseased tissue with antitubercular treatment forms the most effective line of treatment.", "contents": "Granulomatous osteomyelitis of the maxillary sinus. A case of granulomatous osteomyelitis of the maxilla, probably due to tuberculosis is reported, and the literature reviewed. Excision of the diseased tissue with antitubercular treatment forms the most effective line of treatment.", "PMID": 458920} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13543", "title": "Zenker's diverticulum- carcinoma of the esophagus?", "content": "Malignant change may occur in a pharyngo-esophageal diverticulum and although it is rare, a small number of cases has been reported. A similar case is reported here to contribute to the awareness of the existence of such an entity.", "contents": "Zenker's diverticulum- carcinoma of the esophagus? Malignant change may occur in a pharyngo-esophageal diverticulum and although it is rare, a small number of cases has been reported. A similar case is reported here to contribute to the awareness of the existence of such an entity.", "PMID": 458921} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13544", "title": "Directional growth of renal calculi.", "content": "The forces involved in shaping urinary calculi reside in crystalline characteristics and especially in local influences. Box pleves may restrict passage and, by allowing mobility, help shape a round calculus. Fixation, occurring with a rapidly growing infection stone, facilitates initial growth on a matrix mold in a funnel pelvis, further aided by pelviocaliceal paralysis from bacterial endotoxins and later by stasis. Branched calculi are further shaped by contact with the pelvic and infundibular walls. Through pressure and mucous coating they grow only at the ends. Late caliceal obstruction frees the ends for clubbing. Consideration of these forces aids in prognosis and surgical removal, and may offer opportunities for prevention.", "contents": "Directional growth of renal calculi. The forces involved in shaping urinary calculi reside in crystalline characteristics and especially in local influences. Box pleves may restrict passage and, by allowing mobility, help shape a round calculus. Fixation, occurring with a rapidly growing infection stone, facilitates initial growth on a matrix mold in a funnel pelvis, further aided by pelviocaliceal paralysis from bacterial endotoxins and later by stasis. Branched calculi are further shaped by contact with the pelvic and infundibular walls. Through pressure and mucous coating they grow only at the ends. Late caliceal obstruction frees the ends for clubbing. Consideration of these forces aids in prognosis and surgical removal, and may offer opportunities for prevention.", "PMID": 458938} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13545", "title": "Biochemical profiles of stone-forming patients: a guide to treatment.", "content": "A formal protocol, controlled metabolic evaluation is essential to the most effective treatment of any patient with renal calculi, regardless of the crystalline composition of the stone. The design of the protocol and of the data sheets should be compatible with ease of diagnosis and selection of corrective therapeutic measures. These data also serve as a reference to monitor response to treatment. Treatment is highly individualized with the objective to reduce all potentially crystallizable ions to basal levels. If this is difficult to accomplish certain ratios of ions are brought to as near normal values as possible.", "contents": "Biochemical profiles of stone-forming patients: a guide to treatment. A formal protocol, controlled metabolic evaluation is essential to the most effective treatment of any patient with renal calculi, regardless of the crystalline composition of the stone. The design of the protocol and of the data sheets should be compatible with ease of diagnosis and selection of corrective therapeutic measures. These data also serve as a reference to monitor response to treatment. Treatment is highly individualized with the objective to reduce all potentially crystallizable ions to basal levels. If this is difficult to accomplish certain ratios of ions are brought to as near normal values as possible.", "PMID": 458939} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13546", "title": "Adjunctive chemotherapy of infection-induced staghorn calculi.", "content": "Bacteria induce urinary crystallization of struvite and carbonate-apatite as a by-product of ureolysis by urease. Eradication of infection and/or inhibition of urease with acetohydroxamic acid for 5 to 30 months retarded stone growth and brought about partial or comple dissolution of stones in 9 patients. Long-term chemotherapy with antimicrobial agents that achieve steril urine or acetohydroxamic acid in those patients with recalcitrant infection lessens the risk of recurrent calculogenesis.", "contents": "Adjunctive chemotherapy of infection-induced staghorn calculi. Bacteria induce urinary crystallization of struvite and carbonate-apatite as a by-product of ureolysis by urease. Eradication of infection and/or inhibition of urease with acetohydroxamic acid for 5 to 30 months retarded stone growth and brought about partial or comple dissolution of stones in 9 patients. Long-term chemotherapy with antimicrobial agents that achieve steril urine or acetohydroxamic acid in those patients with recalcitrant infection lessens the risk of recurrent calculogenesis.", "PMID": 458940} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13547", "title": "Staphylococcal protein A assay for detection of antibody directed at renal cancer cells.", "content": "Sera from 27 patients with renal cancer, 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 21 normal controls were tested against 2 renal cancer lines (CAKI-1 and CAKI-2) by the iodinated protein A assay. All sera tested against CAKI-2 were absorbed first with AB+ substance because CAKI-2 was found to have cell surface A antigen. Sera from 16 of 27 patients with renal cell carcinoma, 3 of 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 2 of 21 normal controls were reactive with CAKI-1. Sera from 11 of 27 patients with renal cell carcinoma, 2 of 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 3 of 21 normal controls were reactive with CAKI-2. There is a positive correlation between the number of counts obtained by the renal patients' sera tested against CAKI-1 and CAKI-2.", "contents": "Staphylococcal protein A assay for detection of antibody directed at renal cancer cells. Sera from 27 patients with renal cancer, 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 21 normal controls were tested against 2 renal cancer lines (CAKI-1 and CAKI-2) by the iodinated protein A assay. All sera tested against CAKI-2 were absorbed first with AB+ substance because CAKI-2 was found to have cell surface A antigen. Sera from 16 of 27 patients with renal cell carcinoma, 3 of 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 2 of 21 normal controls were reactive with CAKI-1. Sera from 11 of 27 patients with renal cell carcinoma, 2 of 14 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 3 of 21 normal controls were reactive with CAKI-2. There is a positive correlation between the number of counts obtained by the renal patients' sera tested against CAKI-1 and CAKI-2.", "PMID": 458941} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13548", "title": "Replacement of the ureter by small intestine: clinical application and results of the ileal ureter in 89 patients.", "content": "Partial or total replacement of the ureter by small intestine was performed at the University of California/Los Angeles Hospital and affiliated hospitals 94 times in 92 patients from 1954 to 1978. Indications included recurrent calculi, ureteral stricture, fistula, congenital obstruction of the ureter and ureteral carcinoma with a solitary kidney. A special use has been for undiversion of an ileal conduit. Followup evaluation was possible in 95% of the patients and ranged from 6 months to 23 years. Thirty-six patients were followed for more than 5 years. The operation was judged successful in 81% of the cases. Serum creatinine was unchanged or decreased in 75.7% and the pyelogram was unchanged or showed decreased dilatation in 84.6% of the patients. Although reflux was seen in 40 of 55 patients who had cystograms 39 (97.5%) were considered to be treated successfully. Indications for and results of the operation are discussed. The procedure is recommended as optimal therapy for carefully selected situations when the normal urinary tract cannot be used.", "contents": "Replacement of the ureter by small intestine: clinical application and results of the ileal ureter in 89 patients. Partial or total replacement of the ureter by small intestine was performed at the University of California/Los Angeles Hospital and affiliated hospitals 94 times in 92 patients from 1954 to 1978. Indications included recurrent calculi, ureteral stricture, fistula, congenital obstruction of the ureter and ureteral carcinoma with a solitary kidney. A special use has been for undiversion of an ileal conduit. Followup evaluation was possible in 95% of the patients and ranged from 6 months to 23 years. Thirty-six patients were followed for more than 5 years. The operation was judged successful in 81% of the cases. Serum creatinine was unchanged or decreased in 75.7% and the pyelogram was unchanged or showed decreased dilatation in 84.6% of the patients. Although reflux was seen in 40 of 55 patients who had cystograms 39 (97.5%) were considered to be treated successfully. Indications for and results of the operation are discussed. The procedure is recommended as optimal therapy for carefully selected situations when the normal urinary tract cannot be used.", "PMID": 458942} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13549", "title": "Ureterosigmoidostomy and carcinoma of the colon.", "content": "The etiology for development of colon carcinoma associated with ureterosigmoidostomy seems to be related to the urine. The incidence of colon carcinoma associated with ureterosigmoidostomy is 500 times greater than in the normal population, indicating about a 5% life time risk. The development time of these lesions varies from 6 to 50 years postoperatively but it is significantly less in patients more than 40 years old. The possibility exists that colon carcinoma may develop in primary sigmoid urinary diversion conduits or sigmoid internal conduits to either bladder or bowel. No reported bowel carcinoma has developed in an ileal urinary diversion. Followup examination should include stools for blood every 3 months after 2 years, an excretory urogram yearly after 5 years, sigmoid or colonoscopy every 5 years and barium enema every 5 years. If the patient has hematochezia or the excretory urogram demonstrates ureteral obstruction sigmoid or colonoscopy and a barium enema should be done.", "contents": "Ureterosigmoidostomy and carcinoma of the colon. The etiology for development of colon carcinoma associated with ureterosigmoidostomy seems to be related to the urine. The incidence of colon carcinoma associated with ureterosigmoidostomy is 500 times greater than in the normal population, indicating about a 5% life time risk. The development time of these lesions varies from 6 to 50 years postoperatively but it is significantly less in patients more than 40 years old. The possibility exists that colon carcinoma may develop in primary sigmoid urinary diversion conduits or sigmoid internal conduits to either bladder or bowel. No reported bowel carcinoma has developed in an ileal urinary diversion. Followup examination should include stools for blood every 3 months after 2 years, an excretory urogram yearly after 5 years, sigmoid or colonoscopy every 5 years and barium enema every 5 years. If the patient has hematochezia or the excretory urogram demonstrates ureteral obstruction sigmoid or colonoscopy and a barium enema should be done.", "PMID": 458943} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13550", "title": "Posterior urethral stricture repair.", "content": "Experience with 54 operations for the membranous-prostatic urethral stricture is presented. There were 7 operations performed through pubectomy exposure, 6 Badenoch operations, 31 exteriorization 2-stage operations using a perineal-scrotal flap for the first stage and 10, 1-stage transperineal end-to-end anastomoses after scar tissue had been excised. The technique for the transperineal approach is presented. Presently, a 1-stage end-to-end anastomosis of the bu.ferred. Exteriorization urethroplasty using the perineal-scrotal flap is recommended when an end-to-end anastomosis is not feasible, either because of a long stricture or severe scar secondary to previous operative failures. The pubectomy approach is seldom needed but the Waterhouse pubectomy procedure is recommended as a possibility in patients who cannot be placed in the exaggerated lithotomy position.", "contents": "Posterior urethral stricture repair. Experience with 54 operations for the membranous-prostatic urethral stricture is presented. There were 7 operations performed through pubectomy exposure, 6 Badenoch operations, 31 exteriorization 2-stage operations using a perineal-scrotal flap for the first stage and 10, 1-stage transperineal end-to-end anastomoses after scar tissue had been excised. The technique for the transperineal approach is presented. Presently, a 1-stage end-to-end anastomosis of the bu.ferred. Exteriorization urethroplasty using the perineal-scrotal flap is recommended when an end-to-end anastomosis is not feasible, either because of a long stricture or severe scar secondary to previous operative failures. The pubectomy approach is seldom needed but the Waterhouse pubectomy procedure is recommended as a possibility in patients who cannot be placed in the exaggerated lithotomy position.", "PMID": 458944} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13551", "title": "Adenocarcinoma of the prostate: a comparison of the disease in blacks versus whites.", "content": "A retrospective analysis was done on 3,298 cases of adenocarcinoma of the prostate seen between 1948 and 1975. There were 2,324 black patients (70%) and 974 white (30%). Criteria for comparison included age and stage at original diagnosis and relative survival rates between the groups. Our study showed a difference in age and stage but a similar pattern in survival between groups.", "contents": "Adenocarcinoma of the prostate: a comparison of the disease in blacks versus whites. A retrospective analysis was done on 3,298 cases of adenocarcinoma of the prostate seen between 1948 and 1975. There were 2,324 black patients (70%) and 974 white (30%). Criteria for comparison included age and stage at original diagnosis and relative survival rates between the groups. Our study showed a difference in age and stage but a similar pattern in survival between groups.", "PMID": 458946} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13552", "title": "The use of estramustine and prednimustine versus prednimustine alone in advanced metastatic prostatic cancer patients who have received prior irradiation.", "content": "Estramustine has been shown previously to be an effective drug in the treatment of metastatic prostatic cancer, demonstrating significant objective and subjective responses in long-term non-randomized trials and in other randomized trials. In this study prednimustine alone has shown a minimal over-all objective response rate of 12.9% of the cases, although with marked subjective improvement of pain relief and patient performance status. The combination of prednimustine with estramustine did not result in improvement of objective or subjective response parameters. The effects in terms of responses or in terms of toxicity for either agent were not additive when they were given in combination. Cross-over for those patients whose disease progressed on prednimustine therapy to estramustine had some benefit in over-all survival. Prednimustine alone or in combination with estramustine may be used safely and could improve markedly the quality of life for irradiated patients with advanced prostatic cancer who failed on hormonal treatment and have too poor a bone marrow reserve to be treated by other currently available myelosuppressive agents.", "contents": "The use of estramustine and prednimustine versus prednimustine alone in advanced metastatic prostatic cancer patients who have received prior irradiation. Estramustine has been shown previously to be an effective drug in the treatment of metastatic prostatic cancer, demonstrating significant objective and subjective responses in long-term non-randomized trials and in other randomized trials. In this study prednimustine alone has shown a minimal over-all objective response rate of 12.9% of the cases, although with marked subjective improvement of pain relief and patient performance status. The combination of prednimustine with estramustine did not result in improvement of objective or subjective response parameters. The effects in terms of responses or in terms of toxicity for either agent were not additive when they were given in combination. Cross-over for those patients whose disease progressed on prednimustine therapy to estramustine had some benefit in over-all survival. Prednimustine alone or in combination with estramustine may be used safely and could improve markedly the quality of life for irradiated patients with advanced prostatic cancer who failed on hormonal treatment and have too poor a bone marrow reserve to be treated by other currently available myelosuppressive agents.", "PMID": 458947} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13553", "title": "The benefits of evaluation of the patient with recurrent or multiple calcium stones.", "content": "Metabolic evaluation of patients with multiple or recurrent calcium stones has been fruitful. The great majority of cases has demonstrated abnormalities contributing to stone formation. Hypercalciuria on the basis of increased intestinal absorption of calcium was a common finding. The evaluation led to improved guide lines for therapy.", "contents": "The benefits of evaluation of the patient with recurrent or multiple calcium stones. Metabolic evaluation of patients with multiple or recurrent calcium stones has been fruitful. The great majority of cases has demonstrated abnormalities contributing to stone formation. Hypercalciuria on the basis of increased intestinal absorption of calcium was a common finding. The evaluation led to improved guide lines for therapy.", "PMID": 458948} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13554", "title": "The bladder in boys with posterior urethral valves: a urodynamic assessment.", "content": "Urodynamic evaluation was performed on 8 of 62 boys (13 per cent) with persistent voiding difficulties after fulguration of posterior urethral valves. All had varying degrees of incontinence when evaluated. The striated muscle component of the external urethral sphincter was intact in each child. Five different types of bladder function were noted in the 8 children. Three boys had had a prior Y-V plasty of the bladder neck to improve upper and lower urinary tract emptying, which may have contributed to the subsequent incontinence. One additional boy had significant bladder neck obstruction requiring a unilateral bladder neck incision to improve voiding. Appropriate treatment plans were instituted based on the urodynamic findings of the bladder, bladder neck and external sphincter areas, and 6 of the 8 children are now completely continent.", "contents": "The bladder in boys with posterior urethral valves: a urodynamic assessment. Urodynamic evaluation was performed on 8 of 62 boys (13 per cent) with persistent voiding difficulties after fulguration of posterior urethral valves. All had varying degrees of incontinence when evaluated. The striated muscle component of the external urethral sphincter was intact in each child. Five different types of bladder function were noted in the 8 children. Three boys had had a prior Y-V plasty of the bladder neck to improve upper and lower urinary tract emptying, which may have contributed to the subsequent incontinence. One additional boy had significant bladder neck obstruction requiring a unilateral bladder neck incision to improve voiding. Appropriate treatment plans were instituted based on the urodynamic findings of the bladder, bladder neck and external sphincter areas, and 6 of the 8 children are now completely continent.", "PMID": 458949} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13555", "title": "Detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia.", "content": "We followed 62 patients with complete suprasacral spinal cord injuries and detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia for at least 2 years. The patients were evaluated urodynamically at regular intervals and 50 per cent were subjected to external sphincterotomy, after which they were compared for the presence of bacteriuria and upper urinary tract changes. Patients on prolonged intermittent catheterization did as well as those who achieved balanced bladder function as a result of sphincterotomy.", "contents": "Detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. We followed 62 patients with complete suprasacral spinal cord injuries and detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia for at least 2 years. The patients were evaluated urodynamically at regular intervals and 50 per cent were subjected to external sphincterotomy, after which they were compared for the presence of bacteriuria and upper urinary tract changes. Patients on prolonged intermittent catheterization did as well as those who achieved balanced bladder function as a result of sphincterotomy.", "PMID": 458950} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13556", "title": "Urethral hypotonicity after suprasacral spinal cord injury.", "content": "Established suprasacral spinal cord injuries usually are associated with detrusor hyperreflexia and varying degrees of detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. Occasionally, such injuries result in detrusor areflexia or urethral hypotonicity or both. The results of the urodynamic evaluation of 4 patients with suprasacral spinal cord injuries are described. Detrusor areflexia and urethral hypotonicity were demonstrated in 3 cases and urethral smooth muscular hypotonia but preserved reflex detrusor function in 1. It is shown that destruction of the thoracolumbar sympathetic outflow can cause the complete loss of urethral smooth muscular closing function and that resting urethral closure is totally independent of preganglionic cholinergic influences.", "contents": "Urethral hypotonicity after suprasacral spinal cord injury. Established suprasacral spinal cord injuries usually are associated with detrusor hyperreflexia and varying degrees of detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. Occasionally, such injuries result in detrusor areflexia or urethral hypotonicity or both. The results of the urodynamic evaluation of 4 patients with suprasacral spinal cord injuries are described. Detrusor areflexia and urethral hypotonicity were demonstrated in 3 cases and urethral smooth muscular hypotonia but preserved reflex detrusor function in 1. It is shown that destruction of the thoracolumbar sympathetic outflow can cause the complete loss of urethral smooth muscular closing function and that resting urethral closure is totally independent of preganglionic cholinergic influences.", "PMID": 458951} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13557", "title": "Intermittent catheterization in children less than 6 years old.", "content": "Neurogenic bladder dysfunction often requires treatment early in life. Intermittent catheterization is an accepted means of treatment in older children and adults but its use in young children and infants has been limited because of fear of urethral injury. The results of managing 42 patients less than 6 years old by intermittent catheterization are presented. Excellent results were achieved even in small infants.", "contents": "Intermittent catheterization in children less than 6 years old. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction often requires treatment early in life. Intermittent catheterization is an accepted means of treatment in older children and adults but its use in young children and infants has been limited because of fear of urethral injury. The results of managing 42 patients less than 6 years old by intermittent catheterization are presented. Excellent results were achieved even in small infants.", "PMID": 458952} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13558", "title": "Enuresis: principles of management and result of treatment.", "content": "We studied 115 consecutive cases of primary enuresis. Excretory urography, urodynamic testing and endoscopy are needed only in children with enuresis and concomitant urinary infection. A detailed urologic history was the most important factor in deciding upon a treatment program. Children with diurnal and nocturnal enuresis or nocturnal enuresis and daytime urgency and frequency of urination are started on anticholinergic medication. Girls with enuresis and urinary infection also are started on anticholinergic medication. Significant improvement occurs in up to 90% of the patients. Children with only nocturnal enuresis and no other symptoms are started on imipramine with a 70% improvement rate.", "contents": "Enuresis: principles of management and result of treatment. We studied 115 consecutive cases of primary enuresis. Excretory urography, urodynamic testing and endoscopy are needed only in children with enuresis and concomitant urinary infection. A detailed urologic history was the most important factor in deciding upon a treatment program. Children with diurnal and nocturnal enuresis or nocturnal enuresis and daytime urgency and frequency of urination are started on anticholinergic medication. Girls with enuresis and urinary infection also are started on anticholinergic medication. Significant improvement occurs in up to 90% of the patients. Children with only nocturnal enuresis and no other symptoms are started on imipramine with a 70% improvement rate.", "PMID": 458953} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13559", "title": "Familial pheochromocytoma: a report of 2 cases in a kindred.", "content": "A kindred with 2 current cases of pheochromocytoma is reported. The proband had classical features of adrenal medullary hyperfunction, in addition to Raynaud's phenomenon. After surgical removal of the right adrenal gland, containing a pheochromocytoma and a small paraganglioma, the patient was free of symptoms. The 12-year-old son of the proband was discovered to have relatively asymptomatic sustained hypertension on routine examination. Biochemical and radiological tests confirmed the diagnosis of a left adrenal pheochromocytoma, which was removed successfully.", "contents": "Familial pheochromocytoma: a report of 2 cases in a kindred. A kindred with 2 current cases of pheochromocytoma is reported. The proband had classical features of adrenal medullary hyperfunction, in addition to Raynaud's phenomenon. After surgical removal of the right adrenal gland, containing a pheochromocytoma and a small paraganglioma, the patient was free of symptoms. The 12-year-old son of the proband was discovered to have relatively asymptomatic sustained hypertension on routine examination. Biochemical and radiological tests confirmed the diagnosis of a left adrenal pheochromocytoma, which was removed successfully.", "PMID": 458955} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13560", "title": "Intrarenal pheochromocytoma: report of a case.", "content": "To our knowledge the first case of an intrarenal pheochromocytoma is reported. It is important to realize that an intrarenal or apparent intrarenal mass in a hypertensive patient might be a pheochromocytoma so that appropriate precautions can be taken.", "contents": "Intrarenal pheochromocytoma: report of a case. To our knowledge the first case of an intrarenal pheochromocytoma is reported. It is important to realize that an intrarenal or apparent intrarenal mass in a hypertensive patient might be a pheochromocytoma so that appropriate precautions can be taken.", "PMID": 458956} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13561", "title": "Bilateral multilocular renal cysts with recurrence.", "content": "Multilocular renal cysts may occur bilaterally. A partial nephrectomy usually is curative but unroofing of the cyst may lead to recurrence. We suggest to delete the criterion of unilaterality and to base the diagnosis on histological features. The first case of bilateral multilocular renal cysts with unilateral recurrence is reported.", "contents": "Bilateral multilocular renal cysts with recurrence. Multilocular renal cysts may occur bilaterally. A partial nephrectomy usually is curative but unroofing of the cyst may lead to recurrence. We suggest to delete the criterion of unilaterality and to base the diagnosis on histological features. The first case of bilateral multilocular renal cysts with unilateral recurrence is reported.", "PMID": 458957} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13562", "title": "Dissolution of cystine ureteral calculus by irrigation with tromethamine.", "content": "An alternative to surgical intervention in cases of symptomatic cystine calculi is presented. A large obstructing ureteral calculus in a patient who had undergone 4 prior lithotomies was dissolved during a 5-day period by irrigation via a ureteral catheter with tromethamine-E, an alkaline organic amine intravenous solution.", "contents": "Dissolution of cystine ureteral calculus by irrigation with tromethamine. An alternative to surgical intervention in cases of symptomatic cystine calculi is presented. A large obstructing ureteral calculus in a patient who had undergone 4 prior lithotomies was dissolved during a 5-day period by irrigation via a ureteral catheter with tromethamine-E, an alkaline organic amine intravenous solution.", "PMID": 458958} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13563", "title": "Management of prolapsed ureterocele: past and present.", "content": "A prolapsed ureterocele occurs more frequently in female subjects than in male subjects. At least 64 cases in female patients have been reported and an additional case in a 2-year-old girl is reported herein. Only 3 cases have been reported in male subjects. A method for management of a non-reducible ureterocele in female patients is outlined and discussed briefly.", "contents": "Management of prolapsed ureterocele: past and present. A prolapsed ureterocele occurs more frequently in female subjects than in male subjects. At least 64 cases in female patients have been reported and an additional case in a 2-year-old girl is reported herein. Only 3 cases have been reported in male subjects. A method for management of a non-reducible ureterocele in female patients is outlined and discussed briefly.", "PMID": 458959} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13564", "title": "Vesicoureteral reflux and ureteropelvic junction obstruction: late occurrence of ureteropelvic obstruction after successful ureteroneocystostomy.", "content": "Ureteropelvic junction obstruction occurred in 2 patients after successful correction of vesicoureteral reflux. The correction of vesicoureteral reflux does not always allow complete resolution of pelvioureteral tortuosity, kinking and periureteritis. In cases with a severe degree of these changes the possibility of ureteropelvic junction obstruction occurring either early or late after ureteroneocystostomy should be considered when unsatisfactory renal function is noted during followup.", "contents": "Vesicoureteral reflux and ureteropelvic junction obstruction: late occurrence of ureteropelvic obstruction after successful ureteroneocystostomy. Ureteropelvic junction obstruction occurred in 2 patients after successful correction of vesicoureteral reflux. The correction of vesicoureteral reflux does not always allow complete resolution of pelvioureteral tortuosity, kinking and periureteritis. In cases with a severe degree of these changes the possibility of ureteropelvic junction obstruction occurring either early or late after ureteroneocystostomy should be considered when unsatisfactory renal function is noted during followup.", "PMID": 458960} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13565", "title": "Emphysematous cystitis associated with Clostridium perfringens bacteremia.", "content": "Anaerobes are recognized rarely as the cause of urinary tract infection. A case is reported in which there were clinical signs of sepsis, positive blood culture for Clostridium perfringens and radiographic demonstration of emphysematous cystitis without any other recognized source of infection.", "contents": "Emphysematous cystitis associated with Clostridium perfringens bacteremia. Anaerobes are recognized rarely as the cause of urinary tract infection. A case is reported in which there were clinical signs of sepsis, positive blood culture for Clostridium perfringens and radiographic demonstration of emphysematous cystitis without any other recognized source of infection.", "PMID": 458961} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13566", "title": "Redux testis: a potential pitfall in testicular imaging.", "content": "The use of radionuclide testicular imaging to assess testicular perfusion has been shown to be a valuable diagnostic procedure in the evaluation of the acute scrotum. However, if images are not evaluated in conjunction with physical findings falsely negative examinations can occur. A case of torsion of a retractile testicle (redux testis) is presented to demonstrate this potential limitation. To our knowledge this has not been reported previously.", "contents": "Redux testis: a potential pitfall in testicular imaging. The use of radionuclide testicular imaging to assess testicular perfusion has been shown to be a valuable diagnostic procedure in the evaluation of the acute scrotum. However, if images are not evaluated in conjunction with physical findings falsely negative examinations can occur. A case of torsion of a retractile testicle (redux testis) is presented to demonstrate this potential limitation. To our knowledge this has not been reported previously.", "PMID": 458962} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13567", "title": "Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcomas and leiomyosarcomas: a clinicopathological review.", "content": "One case of embryonal paratesticular sarcoma and 2 cases of leiomyosarcomas are reported. The 13-year-old boy with embryonal sarcoma is well after an orchiectomy and high ligation of the spermatic cord followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. A 66-year-old man has been doing well after orchiectomy and hemiscrotectomy for a paratesticular leiomyosarcoma. The third patient had a highly pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma and died 2 months postoperatively. The clinical and histological diagnosis of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcomas and leiomyosarcomas is reviewed and the various therapeutic approaches to these neoplasms are discussed. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are important adjuncts to orchiectomy in the management of rhabdomyosarcomas. On the contrary, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and radiotherapy are not indicated in leiomyosarcomas, since these neoplasms tend to metastasize by the hematogenous route and are radioresistant. At the present time we are unable to evaluate chemotherapy in the management of paratesticular leiomyosarcomas.", "contents": "Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcomas and leiomyosarcomas: a clinicopathological review. One case of embryonal paratesticular sarcoma and 2 cases of leiomyosarcomas are reported. The 13-year-old boy with embryonal sarcoma is well after an orchiectomy and high ligation of the spermatic cord followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. A 66-year-old man has been doing well after orchiectomy and hemiscrotectomy for a paratesticular leiomyosarcoma. The third patient had a highly pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma and died 2 months postoperatively. The clinical and histological diagnosis of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcomas and leiomyosarcomas is reviewed and the various therapeutic approaches to these neoplasms are discussed. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are important adjuncts to orchiectomy in the management of rhabdomyosarcomas. On the contrary, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and radiotherapy are not indicated in leiomyosarcomas, since these neoplasms tend to metastasize by the hematogenous route and are radioresistant. At the present time we are unable to evaluate chemotherapy in the management of paratesticular leiomyosarcomas.", "PMID": 458963} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13568", "title": "Severe prostatic calcification after radiation therapy for cancer.", "content": "Severe symptomatic prostatic calcification was seen in 3 patients who had carcinoma of the prostate treated initially with transurethral resection, followed in 2 to 4 weeks by definitive radiation therapy. This complication is probably preventable if an interval of 6 weeks is allowed between transurethral resection of the prostate and radiation therapy.", "contents": "Severe prostatic calcification after radiation therapy for cancer. Severe symptomatic prostatic calcification was seen in 3 patients who had carcinoma of the prostate treated initially with transurethral resection, followed in 2 to 4 weeks by definitive radiation therapy. This complication is probably preventable if an interval of 6 weeks is allowed between transurethral resection of the prostate and radiation therapy.", "PMID": 458965} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13569", "title": "Rectovesical fistula secondary to prostatic carcinoma.", "content": "Rectal invasion by carcinoma of the prostate occurs in a significant number of cases (approaching 10%). A case of a rectovesical fistula owing to direct extension of a prostatic carcinoma is reported. This complication of the disease has not been described previously.", "contents": "Rectovesical fistula secondary to prostatic carcinoma. Rectal invasion by carcinoma of the prostate occurs in a significant number of cases (approaching 10%). A case of a rectovesical fistula owing to direct extension of a prostatic carcinoma is reported. This complication of the disease has not been described previously.", "PMID": 458966} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13570", "title": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate: report of 2 cases and review of the literature.", "content": "Two cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate are reported and criteria for diagnosis are suggested. Squamous cancer, which accounts for 0.5 to 1% of prostatic malignancies, differs from the common adenocarcinoma of the prostate in certain clinical features. It also appears to have a worse prognosis and to be unresponsive to the usual therapies for prostatic cancer, perhaps because of a different cell of origin.", "contents": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate: report of 2 cases and review of the literature. Two cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate are reported and criteria for diagnosis are suggested. Squamous cancer, which accounts for 0.5 to 1% of prostatic malignancies, differs from the common adenocarcinoma of the prostate in certain clinical features. It also appears to have a worse prognosis and to be unresponsive to the usual therapies for prostatic cancer, perhaps because of a different cell of origin.", "PMID": 458967} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13571", "title": "Stone formation on polypropylene suture.", "content": "Polypropylene is a relatively new suture material with many advantages, which has been demonstrated in experimental studies to be a safe material for urologic operations. However, recently, 2 patients had polypropylene suture at the matrix of urinary calculi. Symptoms from the calculi developed in both patients in the late postoperative period and both had large amounts of fibrosis around the sutured urothelium.", "contents": "Stone formation on polypropylene suture. Polypropylene is a relatively new suture material with many advantages, which has been demonstrated in experimental studies to be a safe material for urologic operations. However, recently, 2 patients had polypropylene suture at the matrix of urinary calculi. Symptoms from the calculi developed in both patients in the late postoperative period and both had large amounts of fibrosis around the sutured urothelium.", "PMID": 458968} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13572", "title": "Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis in children.", "content": "A case of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis in an 11-year-old boy is presented. A review of 7 previous case reports revealed that there was no characteristic presentation in this disease process and that the diagnosis usually is suspected on an excretory urogram. The treatment is primarily surgical but corticosteroids may be helpful in selective cases.", "contents": "Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis in children. A case of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis in an 11-year-old boy is presented. A review of 7 previous case reports revealed that there was no characteristic presentation in this disease process and that the diagnosis usually is suspected on an excretory urogram. The treatment is primarily surgical but corticosteroids may be helpful in selective cases.", "PMID": 458972} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13573", "title": "A review of 117 partial nephrectomies.", "content": "In this review of 117 consecutive partial nephrectomies calculi associated with infection was the most common indication for the operation. Other indications included congenital anomalies, trauma, arteriovenous malformations and tumor. Partial nephrectomy has been shown to be a relatively safe procedure, with a mortality rate of 1.7 per cent. However, considerable morbidity occurred when stone and/or infection persisted postoperatively. We herein emphasize that total intraoperative removal of calcareous debris, appropriate treatment of associated infection and avoidance of nephrostomy tubes are important to a successful postoperative result. Partial nephrectomy as a method to remove stones confined to or originating in a diseases calix appears unsurpassed.", "contents": "A review of 117 partial nephrectomies. In this review of 117 consecutive partial nephrectomies calculi associated with infection was the most common indication for the operation. Other indications included congenital anomalies, trauma, arteriovenous malformations and tumor. Partial nephrectomy has been shown to be a relatively safe procedure, with a mortality rate of 1.7 per cent. However, considerable morbidity occurred when stone and/or infection persisted postoperatively. We herein emphasize that total intraoperative removal of calcareous debris, appropriate treatment of associated infection and avoidance of nephrostomy tubes are important to a successful postoperative result. Partial nephrectomy as a method to remove stones confined to or originating in a diseases calix appears unsurpassed.", "PMID": 458973} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13574", "title": "Neurogenic bladder and the tethered spinal cord syndrome.", "content": "We report 2 cases of the tethered spinal cord syndrome. Early clinical detection of this syndrome in children with bladder dysfunction should be followed by diagnostic myelography and immediate surgical release of the spinal cord. The pathophysiology of the syndrome is discussed.", "contents": "Neurogenic bladder and the tethered spinal cord syndrome. We report 2 cases of the tethered spinal cord syndrome. Early clinical detection of this syndrome in children with bladder dysfunction should be followed by diagnostic myelography and immediate surgical release of the spinal cord. The pathophysiology of the syndrome is discussed.", "PMID": 458974} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13575", "title": "Non-papillary carcinoma in situ of the bladder: a clinicopathologic study of 2 cases treated with radical cystoprostatourethrectomy.", "content": "Two cases of carcinoma in situ of the bladder treated with radical cystoprostatourethrectomy were evaluted by histologic study of the totally embedded epithelium. Clinical symptomatology consisted of urinary frequency with diminished bladder capacity and pain on voiding. Urinary cytology and multiple biopsies were essential for diagnosis of this lesion. The resected specimens of both cases were fixed in formalin and totally embedded for step sections that were mapped after histopathologic study. In both cases atypical epithelium and carcinoma in situ with foci of microinvasion affected the bladder mucosa and extended continuously to the distal ureters as well as the prostatic urethra. Since the lesion subsequently may result in invasive bladder cancer and often involves the prostatic urethra and distal ureter as in our cases the radical cystoprostatourethrectomy is recommended.", "contents": "Non-papillary carcinoma in situ of the bladder: a clinicopathologic study of 2 cases treated with radical cystoprostatourethrectomy. Two cases of carcinoma in situ of the bladder treated with radical cystoprostatourethrectomy were evaluted by histologic study of the totally embedded epithelium. Clinical symptomatology consisted of urinary frequency with diminished bladder capacity and pain on voiding. Urinary cytology and multiple biopsies were essential for diagnosis of this lesion. The resected specimens of both cases were fixed in formalin and totally embedded for step sections that were mapped after histopathologic study. In both cases atypical epithelium and carcinoma in situ with foci of microinvasion affected the bladder mucosa and extended continuously to the distal ureters as well as the prostatic urethra. Since the lesion subsequently may result in invasive bladder cancer and often involves the prostatic urethra and distal ureter as in our cases the radical cystoprostatourethrectomy is recommended.", "PMID": 458975} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13576", "title": "Lesions of Cowper's glands in children.", "content": "Lesions of Cowper's glands in children are relatively uncommon. They may be totally asymptomatic or may cause mild irritative or obstructive voiding symptoms. We describe 4 cases to illustrate the varied manifestations of these lesions in children. A plan of treatment is suggested, which is based on the different anatomical presentations encountered.", "contents": "Lesions of Cowper's glands in children. Lesions of Cowper's glands in children are relatively uncommon. They may be totally asymptomatic or may cause mild irritative or obstructive voiding symptoms. We describe 4 cases to illustrate the varied manifestations of these lesions in children. A plan of treatment is suggested, which is based on the different anatomical presentations encountered.", "PMID": 458976} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13577", "title": "Gracilis muscle flap for closure of rectourethral fistula.", "content": "A gracilis muscle flap can be used to close a rectourethral fistula caused by operative trauma and radiation. The flap is rotated easily into the perineum, brings vascularized muscle to irradiated and/or traumatized tissue and is a mechanical barrier between the urethra and the rectum.", "contents": "Gracilis muscle flap for closure of rectourethral fistula. A gracilis muscle flap can be used to close a rectourethral fistula caused by operative trauma and radiation. The flap is rotated easily into the perineum, brings vascularized muscle to irradiated and/or traumatized tissue and is a mechanical barrier between the urethra and the rectum.", "PMID": 458977} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13578", "title": "Angiographic management of post-prostatectomy bleeding.", "content": "A case is reported of angiographic localization and management of a severe, life-threatening hemorrhage secondary to transurethral resection of the prostate in a 90-year-old man. The classical methods of controlling post-prostatectomy bleeding are discussed.", "contents": "Angiographic management of post-prostatectomy bleeding. A case is reported of angiographic localization and management of a severe, life-threatening hemorrhage secondary to transurethral resection of the prostate in a 90-year-old man. The classical methods of controlling post-prostatectomy bleeding are discussed.", "PMID": 458978} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13579", "title": "Urogenital aspects of actinomycosis.", "content": "Urogenital actinomycosis has always been a rare entity, limited to a few cases in any series. Treatment is highly successful but diagnosis remains elusive owing to low incidence, variable clinical picture, and biopsy and culture uncertainties. The general incidence of actinomycosis is believed to be decreasing in recent years but many infections may go undiagnosed while being suppressed or cured by conventional antibiotic therapy given for other resons. Our incidence of 4 cases of genitourinary and abdominal actinomycosis occurring in a 1-year period is highly unusual but the reasons remain speculative. Prior operation, abortion and induced infection via an intrauterine device were probably contributory. Whatever the case, if our experience is shared by others, genitourinary actinomycosis deserves more prominent diagnostic consideration in the future.", "contents": "Urogenital aspects of actinomycosis. Urogenital actinomycosis has always been a rare entity, limited to a few cases in any series. Treatment is highly successful but diagnosis remains elusive owing to low incidence, variable clinical picture, and biopsy and culture uncertainties. The general incidence of actinomycosis is believed to be decreasing in recent years but many infections may go undiagnosed while being suppressed or cured by conventional antibiotic therapy given for other resons. Our incidence of 4 cases of genitourinary and abdominal actinomycosis occurring in a 1-year period is highly unusual but the reasons remain speculative. Prior operation, abortion and induced infection via an intrauterine device were probably contributory. Whatever the case, if our experience is shared by others, genitourinary actinomycosis deserves more prominent diagnostic consideration in the future.", "PMID": 458979} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13580", "title": "Sickle cell trait: forgotten cause of hematuria in white patients.", "content": "Extensive evaluations for intermittent gross hematuria, including selective renal arteriograms, failed to reveal the etiology of bleeding in 2 whtie patients. Sickle cell preparation and hemoglobin electrophoresis, obtained as long shot tests, revealed sickle cell trait in both patients. Both patients were treated successfully with low doses of epsilon aminocaproic acid. Sickle cell prepration and hemoglobin electrophoresis should be included in the evaluation of every patient, white or black, with unexplained hematuria.", "contents": "Sickle cell trait: forgotten cause of hematuria in white patients. Extensive evaluations for intermittent gross hematuria, including selective renal arteriograms, failed to reveal the etiology of bleeding in 2 whtie patients. Sickle cell preparation and hemoglobin electrophoresis, obtained as long shot tests, revealed sickle cell trait in both patients. Both patients were treated successfully with low doses of epsilon aminocaproic acid. Sickle cell prepration and hemoglobin electrophoresis should be included in the evaluation of every patient, white or black, with unexplained hematuria.", "PMID": 458980} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13581", "title": "Lower extremity complications of the lithotomy position: prevention and management.", "content": "We describe 2 unusual and serious complications of the lithotomy position, anterior compartment syndrome and peroneal nerve palsy. The methods of management and prevention are discussed.", "contents": "Lower extremity complications of the lithotomy position: prevention and management. We describe 2 unusual and serious complications of the lithotomy position, anterior compartment syndrome and peroneal nerve palsy. The methods of management and prevention are discussed.", "PMID": 458981} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13582", "title": "Ultrasonic differentiation of renal pelvic filling defects.", "content": "We herein describe 9 patients with non-opaque calculi and 3 patients with soft tissue filling defects in the renal pelvis studied by ultrasound. The calculi varied in size from 1.5 cm. to staghorn calculi. All stones were imaged satisfactorily by ultrasound, allowing the diagnosis of stone to be made with confidence. Ultrasonic differentiation of renal pelvic filling defects proved to be a simple, reliable, non-invasive method to differentiate these clinically perplexing lesions.", "contents": "Ultrasonic differentiation of renal pelvic filling defects. We herein describe 9 patients with non-opaque calculi and 3 patients with soft tissue filling defects in the renal pelvis studied by ultrasound. The calculi varied in size from 1.5 cm. to staghorn calculi. All stones were imaged satisfactorily by ultrasound, allowing the diagnosis of stone to be made with confidence. Ultrasonic differentiation of renal pelvic filling defects proved to be a simple, reliable, non-invasive method to differentiate these clinically perplexing lesions.", "PMID": 458982} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13583", "title": "Routine celiac angiography in patients with renal cell carcinoma.", "content": "Celiac and/or superior mesenteric angiography was done routinely in association with renal angiography on 115 patients with renal cell carcinoma. Metastases were demonstrated in 20 patients on extended angiography. In 10 of these patients no other signs of metastatic disease were noted at diagnosis. In the total clinical diagnostic stydy metastatic spread was present in 41 patients.", "contents": "Routine celiac angiography in patients with renal cell carcinoma. Celiac and/or superior mesenteric angiography was done routinely in association with renal angiography on 115 patients with renal cell carcinoma. Metastases were demonstrated in 20 patients on extended angiography. In 10 of these patients no other signs of metastatic disease were noted at diagnosis. In the total clinical diagnostic stydy metastatic spread was present in 41 patients.", "PMID": 458984} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13584", "title": "A new endoscopic urethral dilator.", "content": "A new endoscopic dilator that can be used either with a foroblique or end vision telescope is described. The design of the dilator and its use are demonstrated with diagrams and endoscopic photographs. The safety and the ease of operation are explained.", "contents": "A new endoscopic urethral dilator. A new endoscopic dilator that can be used either with a foroblique or end vision telescope is described. The design of the dilator and its use are demonstrated with diagrams and endoscopic photographs. The safety and the ease of operation are explained.", "PMID": 458985} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13585", "title": "The association of histocompatibility antigens of the B7 cross-reacting group with Peyronie's disease.", "content": "A significant relationship between Peyronie's disease and histocompatibility antigens of the B7 cross-reacting group is described. The association of Peyronie's disease with a group of immunologically cross-reacting antigens, rather than with a single antigen, suggests that a yet undetermined agent of specific molecular configuration involves in some way its pathogenesis. This finding has diagnostic application and adds a new dimension to the etiologic investigation of Peyronie's disease.", "contents": "The association of histocompatibility antigens of the B7 cross-reacting group with Peyronie's disease. A significant relationship between Peyronie's disease and histocompatibility antigens of the B7 cross-reacting group is described. The association of Peyronie's disease with a group of immunologically cross-reacting antigens, rather than with a single antigen, suggests that a yet undetermined agent of specific molecular configuration involves in some way its pathogenesis. This finding has diagnostic application and adds a new dimension to the etiologic investigation of Peyronie's disease.", "PMID": 458986} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13586", "title": "Contact scrotal thermography: application to problems of infertility.", "content": "Traditionally, studies on the relationship between scrotal or testicular temperature and infertility have concerned patients with varicoceles. However, some varicoceles are difficult to palpate and, in fact, there now appears to be an entity called subclinical varicocele. These data have led to the development of a new diagnostic tool, a contact thermography camera, which is inexpensive in comparison to infrared thermography units, is portable and provides consistent permanent recordings of scrotal temperature. The initial use of this camera in 30 patients seen in an infertility clinic is reported.", "contents": "Contact scrotal thermography: application to problems of infertility. Traditionally, studies on the relationship between scrotal or testicular temperature and infertility have concerned patients with varicoceles. However, some varicoceles are difficult to palpate and, in fact, there now appears to be an entity called subclinical varicocele. These data have led to the development of a new diagnostic tool, a contact thermography camera, which is inexpensive in comparison to infrared thermography units, is portable and provides consistent permanent recordings of scrotal temperature. The initial use of this camera in 30 patients seen in an infertility clinic is reported.", "PMID": 458987} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13587", "title": "Heterozygous cystinuria and calcium oxalate urolithiasis.", "content": "Many variables are known to be associated with the formation of calcium oxalate urolithiasis but none is essential for the initiation or growth of stones. It is likely that the predisposition to stone formation is related to multiple factors. We herein describe still another metabolic state that seems to predispose to calcium oxalate stone disease, namely heterozygosity for cystinuria. Cystine screening tests were done on 24-hour urine specimens obtained from 126 patients in whom recurrent calcium oxalate stones form and 84 controls and quantitative amino acid determinations were done on all positive specimens. Of those studied 17 of 126 stone patients and 1 of 84 controls were heterozygous cystinurics. A test of the differences between the relative frequencies of cystinuria heterozygotes in the 2 groups with Fisher's exact test revealed them to be highly significant (p less than 0.001). Our study indicates that carrier status for 1 of the cystinuria genes predisposes to calcium oxalate stone formation but, like other factors related to urolithiasis, it is not a necessary cause of stone disease.", "contents": "Heterozygous cystinuria and calcium oxalate urolithiasis. Many variables are known to be associated with the formation of calcium oxalate urolithiasis but none is essential for the initiation or growth of stones. It is likely that the predisposition to stone formation is related to multiple factors. We herein describe still another metabolic state that seems to predispose to calcium oxalate stone disease, namely heterozygosity for cystinuria. Cystine screening tests were done on 24-hour urine specimens obtained from 126 patients in whom recurrent calcium oxalate stones form and 84 controls and quantitative amino acid determinations were done on all positive specimens. Of those studied 17 of 126 stone patients and 1 of 84 controls were heterozygous cystinurics. A test of the differences between the relative frequencies of cystinuria heterozygotes in the 2 groups with Fisher's exact test revealed them to be highly significant (p less than 0.001). Our study indicates that carrier status for 1 of the cystinuria genes predisposes to calcium oxalate stone formation but, like other factors related to urolithiasis, it is not a necessary cause of stone disease.", "PMID": 458988} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13588", "title": "Guanethidine sulfate in the prevention of autonomic hyperreflexia.", "content": "Autonomic hyperreflexia constitutes the only medical emergency seen in spinal cord injury patients. Uncontrolled hypertension and bradycardia can result in seizures and death. The acute treatment of the syndrome has ranged from medical ganglionic blockers to topical anesthetic agents to surgical procedures. The oral use of 10 mg. guanethidine sulfate 3 times daily successfully prevented the major symptoms of the syndrome in 200 spinal cord injury patients with lesions above T5. Toxicity has been mild and the drug is recommended until the patients are voiding and are capable of self-care.", "contents": "Guanethidine sulfate in the prevention of autonomic hyperreflexia. Autonomic hyperreflexia constitutes the only medical emergency seen in spinal cord injury patients. Uncontrolled hypertension and bradycardia can result in seizures and death. The acute treatment of the syndrome has ranged from medical ganglionic blockers to topical anesthetic agents to surgical procedures. The oral use of 10 mg. guanethidine sulfate 3 times daily successfully prevented the major symptoms of the syndrome in 200 spinal cord injury patients with lesions above T5. Toxicity has been mild and the drug is recommended until the patients are voiding and are capable of self-care.", "PMID": 458989} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13589", "title": "An objective comparison of the effects of parenterally administered drugs in patients suffering from detrusor instability.", "content": "Cystometric changes produced by 3 parenterally administered drugs, flavoxate hydrochloride, emepronium bromide and imipramine hydrochloride, have been evaluated in 15 female patients with detrusor instability. Each patient was given 2 of the 3 drugs and cystometric recordings were done 10 and 30 minutes after the administration of each drug. Emepronium bromide was found to be the only drug to cause a significant improvement in bladder capacity and reduction in detrusor pressure.", "contents": "An objective comparison of the effects of parenterally administered drugs in patients suffering from detrusor instability. Cystometric changes produced by 3 parenterally administered drugs, flavoxate hydrochloride, emepronium bromide and imipramine hydrochloride, have been evaluated in 15 female patients with detrusor instability. Each patient was given 2 of the 3 drugs and cystometric recordings were done 10 and 30 minutes after the administration of each drug. Emepronium bromide was found to be the only drug to cause a significant improvement in bladder capacity and reduction in detrusor pressure.", "PMID": 458990} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13590", "title": "Urodynamic assessment of incontinence after prostatectomy.", "content": "There were 15 men with incontinence after prostatectomy who were assessed with a urethral pressure profile and a multichannel filling and voiding study with sphincter electromyography. Of these 15 patients 7 had sphincter weakness alone, 7 had sphincter weakness and detrusor hyperreflexia, and 1 had detrusor hyperreflexia alone. Full urodynamic assessment is essential before treatment can be recommended for incontinence after prostatectomy.", "contents": "Urodynamic assessment of incontinence after prostatectomy. There were 15 men with incontinence after prostatectomy who were assessed with a urethral pressure profile and a multichannel filling and voiding study with sphincter electromyography. Of these 15 patients 7 had sphincter weakness alone, 7 had sphincter weakness and detrusor hyperreflexia, and 1 had detrusor hyperreflexia alone. Full urodynamic assessment is essential before treatment can be recommended for incontinence after prostatectomy.", "PMID": 458991} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13591", "title": "Surgical management of massive neurogenic hydronephrosis.", "content": "Permanent urinary diversion has been the standard recommended treatment of massive dilatation of the upper tracts in the child with neurogenic vesical dysfunction. Reimplantation of relatively normal caliber ureters into neurogenic bladders has been shown to be effective. However, attempts to save urinary diversion in 39 neurogenic megaureters have been unrewarding, with the salvage rate of 15 per cent, and 64 per cent have been diverted permanently. Upper tract decompression by continuous or intermittent catheterization, nephrostomy or end cutaneous ureterostomy was used in this series. When ureteral caliber responded to decompression a reasonable success rate from non-tailored reimplantation may be anticipated. However, in those instances in which ureteral caliber failed to respond or when tailoring or ureteral caliber was done in conjunction with reconstruction the success rate was much lower.", "contents": "Surgical management of massive neurogenic hydronephrosis. Permanent urinary diversion has been the standard recommended treatment of massive dilatation of the upper tracts in the child with neurogenic vesical dysfunction. Reimplantation of relatively normal caliber ureters into neurogenic bladders has been shown to be effective. However, attempts to save urinary diversion in 39 neurogenic megaureters have been unrewarding, with the salvage rate of 15 per cent, and 64 per cent have been diverted permanently. Upper tract decompression by continuous or intermittent catheterization, nephrostomy or end cutaneous ureterostomy was used in this series. When ureteral caliber responded to decompression a reasonable success rate from non-tailored reimplantation may be anticipated. However, in those instances in which ureteral caliber failed to respond or when tailoring or ureteral caliber was done in conjunction with reconstruction the success rate was much lower.", "PMID": 458992} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13592", "title": "Behavior of children undergoing hypospadias repair.", "content": "We performed a prospective study on 10 boys between 2 and 6 years old undergoing repair for hypospadias. Clinical observation in the hospital ward rooms and play environment demonstrated a distinctive postoperative course of withdrawal and aggressive behavior with resultant increased parental anxiety, which results in strained staff-family relations. We speculate that this distinctive behavior may be owing to an interaction among parental attitudes, the pain and immobilization from operation and the level of the child's sexual development. Intervention was designed to give the boys behavioral outlets and to involve their family in preoperative and postoperative education.", "contents": "Behavior of children undergoing hypospadias repair. We performed a prospective study on 10 boys between 2 and 6 years old undergoing repair for hypospadias. Clinical observation in the hospital ward rooms and play environment demonstrated a distinctive postoperative course of withdrawal and aggressive behavior with resultant increased parental anxiety, which results in strained staff-family relations. We speculate that this distinctive behavior may be owing to an interaction among parental attitudes, the pain and immobilization from operation and the level of the child's sexual development. Intervention was designed to give the boys behavioral outlets and to involve their family in preoperative and postoperative education.", "PMID": 458993} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13593", "title": "Usefulness of adrenal venography and iodocholesterol scan in adrenal surgery.", "content": "Adrenal scintiscanning and venography with sampling of adrenal venous blood are valuable methods to localize adrenal cortical lesions of Cushing's syndrome and primary aldosteronism. Adrenal scintiscanning with dexamethasone suppression is most useful in differentiating adenoma from hyperplasia of primary aldosteronism.", "contents": "Usefulness of adrenal venography and iodocholesterol scan in adrenal surgery. Adrenal scintiscanning and venography with sampling of adrenal venous blood are valuable methods to localize adrenal cortical lesions of Cushing's syndrome and primary aldosteronism. Adrenal scintiscanning with dexamethasone suppression is most useful in differentiating adenoma from hyperplasia of primary aldosteronism.", "PMID": 458994} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13594", "title": "Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma in children.", "content": "The clinical characteristics, surgical treatment, clinical grouping, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, complications and survival of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma are discussed. When the combined approach of radical inguinal orchiectomy, retroperitoneal node dissection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy when indicated is used a survivorship in excess of 80 per cent can be anticipated for all stages of disease. A combined multidisciplinary approach to this lesion is stressed to achieve improved survivorship in this previously lethal lesion.", "contents": "Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma in children. The clinical characteristics, surgical treatment, clinical grouping, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, complications and survival of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma are discussed. When the combined approach of radical inguinal orchiectomy, retroperitoneal node dissection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy when indicated is used a survivorship in excess of 80 per cent can be anticipated for all stages of disease. A combined multidisciplinary approach to this lesion is stressed to achieve improved survivorship in this previously lethal lesion.", "PMID": 458995} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13595", "title": "Adrenal cysts: pathogenesis and histological identification with a report of 6 cases.", "content": "Because of their rarity cysts of the adrenal gland are often misinterpreted and misdiagnosed. Six cases of surgically removed adrenal cysts are presented, including 3 endothelial cysts, 2 epithelial retention cysts and 1 pseudocyst. Evidence is presented that epithelial retention cysts could and do develop in the human adrenal cortex and are not theoretically impossible as propagated in the literature. We also emphasize the importance of evaluating the surrounding fibrous and adrenal tissue in the proper identification of these cysts, a point not sufficiently stressed previously.", "contents": "Adrenal cysts: pathogenesis and histological identification with a report of 6 cases. Because of their rarity cysts of the adrenal gland are often misinterpreted and misdiagnosed. Six cases of surgically removed adrenal cysts are presented, including 3 endothelial cysts, 2 epithelial retention cysts and 1 pseudocyst. Evidence is presented that epithelial retention cysts could and do develop in the human adrenal cortex and are not theoretically impossible as propagated in the literature. We also emphasize the importance of evaluating the surrounding fibrous and adrenal tissue in the proper identification of these cysts, a point not sufficiently stressed previously.", "PMID": 458997} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13596", "title": "The use of percutaneous nephrostomy in 42 patients.", "content": "Percutaneous nephrostomy has been used for the diagnosis and treatment of 42 patients with obstructive uropathy. Bilateral puncture was done in 6 cases and this was the sole means of establishing permanent urinary diversion in 8.", "contents": "The use of percutaneous nephrostomy in 42 patients. Percutaneous nephrostomy has been used for the diagnosis and treatment of 42 patients with obstructive uropathy. Bilateral puncture was done in 6 cases and this was the sole means of establishing permanent urinary diversion in 8.", "PMID": 458998} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13597", "title": "Fused pelvic kidney combined with absence of the vagina.", "content": "A case of a fused pelvic kidney combined with absence of the vagina in a girl referred for an inguinal hernia is presented.", "contents": "Fused pelvic kidney combined with absence of the vagina. A case of a fused pelvic kidney combined with absence of the vagina in a girl referred for an inguinal hernia is presented.", "PMID": 458999} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13598", "title": "Management of renal arterial injuries secondary to penetrating abdominal trauma.", "content": "Renal vascular injuries are found relatively frequently after non-penetrating abdominal trauma. Penetrating renal arterial lesions occur much less frequently, involving less than 5 per cent of all penetrating arterial injuries. The association of bowel and other organ injuries makes diagnosis and treatment somewhat complex. Four cases of penetrating renal arterial injuries were seen from January 1972 to June 1976. All patients had multiple bowel lacerations. All arrived in the emergency room in hypovolemic shock. Two patients were resuscitated and successfully treated. Three patients had complete transections and 1 had major branch transection. Two patients had an associated parenchymal lesion. One patient had a through-and-through ureteropelvic injury. Preoperative arteriography was not done because of vascular instability. Renal arterial injuries were suspected by loss of psoas shadow on abdominal x-rays and by retroperitoneal hematomas. Retroperitoneal hematomas were explored to eliminate the possibility of renal injury. Both of the patients operated upon attained good renal function after surgical repairs. Postoperative renal scans and arteriograms showed initially decreased function, which returned toward normal. Repair of renal arterial lesions is possible with good functional result. Preoperative arteriography, renographic scan or excretory urography is not justified routinely because of the seriousness of commonly associated injuries.", "contents": "Management of renal arterial injuries secondary to penetrating abdominal trauma. Renal vascular injuries are found relatively frequently after non-penetrating abdominal trauma. Penetrating renal arterial lesions occur much less frequently, involving less than 5 per cent of all penetrating arterial injuries. The association of bowel and other organ injuries makes diagnosis and treatment somewhat complex. Four cases of penetrating renal arterial injuries were seen from January 1972 to June 1976. All patients had multiple bowel lacerations. All arrived in the emergency room in hypovolemic shock. Two patients were resuscitated and successfully treated. Three patients had complete transections and 1 had major branch transection. Two patients had an associated parenchymal lesion. One patient had a through-and-through ureteropelvic injury. Preoperative arteriography was not done because of vascular instability. Renal arterial injuries were suspected by loss of psoas shadow on abdominal x-rays and by retroperitoneal hematomas. Retroperitoneal hematomas were explored to eliminate the possibility of renal injury. Both of the patients operated upon attained good renal function after surgical repairs. Postoperative renal scans and arteriograms showed initially decreased function, which returned toward normal. Repair of renal arterial lesions is possible with good functional result. Preoperative arteriography, renographic scan or excretory urography is not justified routinely because of the seriousness of commonly associated injuries.", "PMID": 459000} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13599", "title": "Case report: transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis presenting with vascular obstruction.", "content": "A case of transitional cell carcinoma of the pelvis, which presented with vascular occlusion, is reported.", "contents": "Case report: transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis presenting with vascular obstruction. A case of transitional cell carcinoma of the pelvis, which presented with vascular occlusion, is reported.", "PMID": 459001} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13600", "title": "Neuroblastoma presenting with hematuria.", "content": "A 3-year-old boy with neuroblastoma presented with gross hematuria, an unusual initial complaint with this malignancy. Renal findings associated with neuroblastoma are discussed.", "contents": "Neuroblastoma presenting with hematuria. A 3-year-old boy with neuroblastoma presented with gross hematuria, an unusual initial complaint with this malignancy. Renal findings associated with neuroblastoma are discussed.", "PMID": 459002} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13601", "title": "Transurethral ureteroscopy in men using juvenile cystoscopy equipment.", "content": "The inadequacies of current procedures to yield exact diagnostic information on the last portion of the ureter in men and the urologists' frequent frustration when manipulations are attempted in the lower ureter have prompted exploration of a direct endoscopic approach to diagnosis and treatment in the terminal ureter. In the last 3 years we have become accustomed to accomplishing ureteroscopy in women on a routine basis to discover and to treat with amazing ease ureteral tumors, calculi, obstructions and so forth. Ureteroscopy in men now has been practiced sufficiently to convince us that it also should join the urologists' armamentarium of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Herein is described the equipment and the technique to endoscope the lower ureter.", "contents": "Transurethral ureteroscopy in men using juvenile cystoscopy equipment. The inadequacies of current procedures to yield exact diagnostic information on the last portion of the ureter in men and the urologists' frequent frustration when manipulations are attempted in the lower ureter have prompted exploration of a direct endoscopic approach to diagnosis and treatment in the terminal ureter. In the last 3 years we have become accustomed to accomplishing ureteroscopy in women on a routine basis to discover and to treat with amazing ease ureteral tumors, calculi, obstructions and so forth. Ureteroscopy in men now has been practiced sufficiently to convince us that it also should join the urologists' armamentarium of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Herein is described the equipment and the technique to endoscope the lower ureter.", "PMID": 459003} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13602", "title": "A 20-year experience with ileal conduits: the fate of the kidneys.", "content": "During the last 20 years 242 patients have undergone ileal conduit urinary diversion at our hospital. Although only 11 per cent of the renal units showed damage after the ileal conduit there was a progressive risk of renal deterioration with increasing time and obstruction was its major cause.", "contents": "A 20-year experience with ileal conduits: the fate of the kidneys. During the last 20 years 242 patients have undergone ileal conduit urinary diversion at our hospital. Although only 11 per cent of the renal units showed damage after the ileal conduit there was a progressive risk of renal deterioration with increasing time and obstruction was its major cause.", "PMID": 459004} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13603", "title": "Urologic complications of pelvic exenteration for gynecologic malignancy.", "content": "We reviewed 43 cases of pelvic exenteration for gynecologic malignancies. Particular attention was paid to the postoperative urologic complications encountered in these patients. The major disease process was carcinoma of the cervix. Six patients had early postoperative complications and 2 of these patients died. Nine patients had late postoperative problems caused by urinary tract infections or stones. Nine other patients had problems related to the urinary diversion that necessitated a secondary operation in the majority of the cases and 2 of these patients died. Advantages of the ileal and colon conduits are discussed.", "contents": "Urologic complications of pelvic exenteration for gynecologic malignancy. We reviewed 43 cases of pelvic exenteration for gynecologic malignancies. Particular attention was paid to the postoperative urologic complications encountered in these patients. The major disease process was carcinoma of the cervix. Six patients had early postoperative complications and 2 of these patients died. Nine patients had late postoperative problems caused by urinary tract infections or stones. Nine other patients had problems related to the urinary diversion that necessitated a secondary operation in the majority of the cases and 2 of these patients died. Advantages of the ileal and colon conduits are discussed.", "PMID": 459005} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13604", "title": "The incidence of bladder cancer after cyclophosphamide therapy.", "content": "The records of 19,082 patients with non-uroepithelial cancers were reviewed to determine the incidence of de novo bladder cancer in patients treated with cyclophosphamide versus patients not treated with this drug. A 9-fold increased incidence of bladder cancer was found in the cyclophosphamide-treated group.", "contents": "The incidence of bladder cancer after cyclophosphamide therapy. The records of 19,082 patients with non-uroepithelial cancers were reviewed to determine the incidence of de novo bladder cancer in patients treated with cyclophosphamide versus patients not treated with this drug. A 9-fold increased incidence of bladder cancer was found in the cyclophosphamide-treated group.", "PMID": 459006} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13605", "title": "Suprapubic endoscopic vesical neck suspension.", "content": "Experience with 20 endoscopic vesical neck suspensions (Stamey procedure) is compared to 20 matched anterior cystourethropexies (Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure) performed by the same staff. The present procedure is a transvaginal vesical neck suspension, described in 1959 by Pereyra, modified in 1973 by Stamey and further modified in 1975 by Mason. The long-term success rate for relief of urinary stress incontinence was 90 per cent with either procedure. Advantages and disadvantages of the endoscopic vesical neck suspension are discussed.", "contents": "Suprapubic endoscopic vesical neck suspension. Experience with 20 endoscopic vesical neck suspensions (Stamey procedure) is compared to 20 matched anterior cystourethropexies (Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure) performed by the same staff. The present procedure is a transvaginal vesical neck suspension, described in 1959 by Pereyra, modified in 1973 by Stamey and further modified in 1975 by Mason. The long-term success rate for relief of urinary stress incontinence was 90 per cent with either procedure. Advantages and disadvantages of the endoscopic vesical neck suspension are discussed.", "PMID": 459007} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13606", "title": "Prostatosis, prostatitis or pelvic floor tension myalgia?", "content": "Patients with symptoms suggestive of prostatitis or prostatosis who do not have pathogenic bacteria in the prostatic secretions may, in fact, not have prostatic problems. The possibility of pelvic floor tension myalgia should be considered in these patients.", "contents": "Prostatosis, prostatitis or pelvic floor tension myalgia? Patients with symptoms suggestive of prostatitis or prostatosis who do not have pathogenic bacteria in the prostatic secretions may, in fact, not have prostatic problems. The possibility of pelvic floor tension myalgia should be considered in these patients.", "PMID": 459008} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13607", "title": "Pelvic lymphadenectomy for staging prostatic carcinoma: is it always necessary?", "content": "There were 100 patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma staged surgically for the evaluation of lymph node metastases. By correlating the incidence of lymph node metastasis with the level of serum acid phosphatase, and the stage and grade of the primary tumor, it was possible to identify 1 group of patients with less than 8 per cent incidence of lymph node metastases and another group with more than 92 per cent incidence of nodal involvement. It is in these 2 groups of patients that pelvic lymphadenectomy for the staging of prostatic carcinoma may not be necessary.", "contents": "Pelvic lymphadenectomy for staging prostatic carcinoma: is it always necessary? There were 100 patients with clinically localized prostatic carcinoma staged surgically for the evaluation of lymph node metastases. By correlating the incidence of lymph node metastasis with the level of serum acid phosphatase, and the stage and grade of the primary tumor, it was possible to identify 1 group of patients with less than 8 per cent incidence of lymph node metastases and another group with more than 92 per cent incidence of nodal involvement. It is in these 2 groups of patients that pelvic lymphadenectomy for the staging of prostatic carcinoma may not be necessary.", "PMID": 459009} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13608", "title": "Reliability of bone marrow acid phosphatase as a parameter of metastatic prostatic cancer.", "content": "The reliability of bone marrow acid phosphatase determination by a spectrophotometric assay and 2 immunochemical methods was evaluated in 40 patients: 20 men with known prostatic carcinoma and 20 men of comparable age without clinical evidence of prostatic cancer. The large percentage of falsely positive results obtained by the colorimetric assay invalidates this method as the sole parameter of metastatic prostatic carcinoma.", "contents": "Reliability of bone marrow acid phosphatase as a parameter of metastatic prostatic cancer. The reliability of bone marrow acid phosphatase determination by a spectrophotometric assay and 2 immunochemical methods was evaluated in 40 patients: 20 men with known prostatic carcinoma and 20 men of comparable age without clinical evidence of prostatic cancer. The large percentage of falsely positive results obtained by the colorimetric assay invalidates this method as the sole parameter of metastatic prostatic carcinoma.", "PMID": 459010} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13609", "title": "Radical prostatectomy for carcinoma: 30-year experience and 15-year survivals.", "content": "Three strata of medical care are shown in this series of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for carcinoma: (1) Medical School Hospital patients had an average age 4 years greater than patients in the other 2 groups and the lowest 15-year survival rate of 15 per cent. 2) The Veterans Hospital patients had an average age 4 years younger than patients in the Medical School Hospital group but there was little opportunity for preventive care by early diagnosis and they had a 15-year survival rate of 26 per cent. 3) The Emanuel series of private patients had good preventive private medical care, allowing for earlier diagnosis in a patient population without other serious medical problems, and a 15-year survival rate of 61 per cent. The 15-year survival figures for other modalities of therapy, including various types of radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, are necessary for meaningful evaluation of efficacy.", "contents": "Radical prostatectomy for carcinoma: 30-year experience and 15-year survivals. Three strata of medical care are shown in this series of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for carcinoma: (1) Medical School Hospital patients had an average age 4 years greater than patients in the other 2 groups and the lowest 15-year survival rate of 15 per cent. 2) The Veterans Hospital patients had an average age 4 years younger than patients in the Medical School Hospital group but there was little opportunity for preventive care by early diagnosis and they had a 15-year survival rate of 26 per cent. 3) The Emanuel series of private patients had good preventive private medical care, allowing for earlier diagnosis in a patient population without other serious medical problems, and a 15-year survival rate of 61 per cent. The 15-year survival figures for other modalities of therapy, including various types of radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, are necessary for meaningful evaluation of efficacy.", "PMID": 459011} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13610", "title": "Long-term survival after hormonal therapy for stage D prostatic cancer.", "content": "Hormonal therapy occasionally produces long-term survival of men with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate. To identify which patients will benefit for long intervals a retrospective analysis was done on 56 men with stage D carcinoma of the prostate treated between 1963 and 1968. Of this group 5 patients lived longer than 10 years. We were unable to identify clinical or pathologic characteristics that would have indicated which patients would have done well.", "contents": "Long-term survival after hormonal therapy for stage D prostatic cancer. Hormonal therapy occasionally produces long-term survival of men with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate. To identify which patients will benefit for long intervals a retrospective analysis was done on 56 men with stage D carcinoma of the prostate treated between 1963 and 1968. Of this group 5 patients lived longer than 10 years. We were unable to identify clinical or pathologic characteristics that would have indicated which patients would have done well.", "PMID": 459012} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13611", "title": "Urethral and bladder responses to anal electrical stimulation.", "content": "Urethral and bladder responses to anal electrical stimulation were evaluated by cystometry and urethral pressure profile measurements in 55 patients with different urethral-bladder dysfunctions. In 50 per cent of the patients examined the electrical stimulation caused normal reciprocal response, that is bladder inhibition with urethral contraction. In other patients the electrical stimulation caused almost all other possible bladder and urethral responses.", "contents": "Urethral and bladder responses to anal electrical stimulation. Urethral and bladder responses to anal electrical stimulation were evaluated by cystometry and urethral pressure profile measurements in 55 patients with different urethral-bladder dysfunctions. In 50 per cent of the patients examined the electrical stimulation caused normal reciprocal response, that is bladder inhibition with urethral contraction. In other patients the electrical stimulation caused almost all other possible bladder and urethral responses.", "PMID": 459014} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13612", "title": "Urodynamic biofeedback: a new approach to treat vesical sphincter dyssynergia.", "content": "Some children with vesical sphincter dyssynergia are refractory to conventional pharmacologic therapy. Three such patients were treated using a method of sphincter retraining, biofeedback. They observed the urinary sphincter electromyogram while voiding to appreciate visually the abnormality. Two children learned to suppress voluntarily the inappropriate sphincter contraction during voiding. This normalized the subsequent electromyographic recordings and offered subjective improvement in the voiding symptoms. Retraining the urethral sphincter dysfunction may be approached using biofeedback techniques in selected patients.", "contents": "Urodynamic biofeedback: a new approach to treat vesical sphincter dyssynergia. Some children with vesical sphincter dyssynergia are refractory to conventional pharmacologic therapy. Three such patients were treated using a method of sphincter retraining, biofeedback. They observed the urinary sphincter electromyogram while voiding to appreciate visually the abnormality. Two children learned to suppress voluntarily the inappropriate sphincter contraction during voiding. This normalized the subsequent electromyographic recordings and offered subjective improvement in the voiding symptoms. Retraining the urethral sphincter dysfunction may be approached using biofeedback techniques in selected patients.", "PMID": 459015} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13613", "title": "Male peak urinary flow rate: relationships to volume voided and age.", "content": "We performed 126 studies of replicate voiding in 7 individuals and 552 observations in normal, abnormal or treated male populations with a disposable device that measures peak flow and volume voided. These observations have led us to suggest that a voided volume of 150 ml. be used as the minimum acceptable volume for studies of male subjects in which peak flow is used to define normal versus abnormal voiding. At volumes greater than 150 ml. a straight line describes the relationship between volume voided and peak flow as accurately as the previously suggested hyperbolic curve. Increasing age of men again reveals progressive decrease in peak flow rate no matter what volume is voided. Comparison of peak flow rate, volume voided and age by 3-dimensional graphing was attempted but was found unsuccessful for clinical use. However, 3 biaxial linear graphs may be used to chart effectively the 3 parameters (age, volume and peak flow) and thereby judge normality or abnormality of peak flow rate for any age and volume voided.", "contents": "Male peak urinary flow rate: relationships to volume voided and age. We performed 126 studies of replicate voiding in 7 individuals and 552 observations in normal, abnormal or treated male populations with a disposable device that measures peak flow and volume voided. These observations have led us to suggest that a voided volume of 150 ml. be used as the minimum acceptable volume for studies of male subjects in which peak flow is used to define normal versus abnormal voiding. At volumes greater than 150 ml. a straight line describes the relationship between volume voided and peak flow as accurately as the previously suggested hyperbolic curve. Increasing age of men again reveals progressive decrease in peak flow rate no matter what volume is voided. Comparison of peak flow rate, volume voided and age by 3-dimensional graphing was attempted but was found unsuccessful for clinical use. However, 3 biaxial linear graphs may be used to chart effectively the 3 parameters (age, volume and peak flow) and thereby judge normality or abnormality of peak flow rate for any age and volume voided.", "PMID": 459016} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13614", "title": "The value of the negative radionuclide scrotal scan in the management of the acutely inflamed scrotum in children.", "content": "Torsion of the testis remains a clinical diagnosis and confirmatory testing is not required when the classic signs and symptoms are present. Conflicting laboratory data or adjunctive diagnostic studies should not dissuade the surgeon from exploration when the clinical index of suspicion is high. In those patients having equivocal clinical findings when the diagnosis of torsion is not clear-cut radionuclide scrotal imaging may be useful. In this series a negative scrotal scan at the time of acute scrotal pain did predict reliably the diagnosis of non-torsion, suggesting that in the appropriate clinical setting scrotal imaging is useful in avoiding surgical exploration.", "contents": "The value of the negative radionuclide scrotal scan in the management of the acutely inflamed scrotum in children. Torsion of the testis remains a clinical diagnosis and confirmatory testing is not required when the classic signs and symptoms are present. Conflicting laboratory data or adjunctive diagnostic studies should not dissuade the surgeon from exploration when the clinical index of suspicion is high. In those patients having equivocal clinical findings when the diagnosis of torsion is not clear-cut radionuclide scrotal imaging may be useful. In this series a negative scrotal scan at the time of acute scrotal pain did predict reliably the diagnosis of non-torsion, suggesting that in the appropriate clinical setting scrotal imaging is useful in avoiding surgical exploration.", "PMID": 459018} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13615", "title": "Post-biopsy intrarenal arteriovenous fistula.", "content": "We present 5 cases of intrarenal arteriovenous fistulas after renal biopsy. Of these cases 3 followed percutaneous needle biopsy and 2 occurred after open renal biopsy. A nephrectomy was necessary in 1 patient to control the severe hypertension secondary to a hydronephrotic kidney and 1 patient required a partial nephrectomy to control marked hematuria.", "contents": "Post-biopsy intrarenal arteriovenous fistula. We present 5 cases of intrarenal arteriovenous fistulas after renal biopsy. Of these cases 3 followed percutaneous needle biopsy and 2 occurred after open renal biopsy. A nephrectomy was necessary in 1 patient to control the severe hypertension secondary to a hydronephrotic kidney and 1 patient required a partial nephrectomy to control marked hematuria.", "PMID": 459022} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13616", "title": "Treatment of traumatic renal arteriovenous fistulas by detachable silicone balloon embolization.", "content": "A new technique of detachable balloon arterial embolization allowed non-operative occlusion of 2 patients with post-traumatic arteriovenous fistulas in the kidney. This approach was successful in controlling hemorrhage with minimal loss of renal tissue.", "contents": "Treatment of traumatic renal arteriovenous fistulas by detachable silicone balloon embolization. A new technique of detachable balloon arterial embolization allowed non-operative occlusion of 2 patients with post-traumatic arteriovenous fistulas in the kidney. This approach was successful in controlling hemorrhage with minimal loss of renal tissue.", "PMID": 459023} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13617", "title": "Atherosclerotic renal artery occlusion extending into branches: successful revascularization in situ with a branched saphenous vein graft.", "content": "In some patients successful renal revascularization can be done after complete renal artery occlusion. We report on a patient with atherosclerotic occlusion of the renal artery and its branches in whom an aortorenal bypass with a branched saphenous vein graft was performed in situ, with cure of hypertension and reversal of azotemia. This is a useful and versatile technique for replacing the renal artery and its major branches.", "contents": "Atherosclerotic renal artery occlusion extending into branches: successful revascularization in situ with a branched saphenous vein graft. In some patients successful renal revascularization can be done after complete renal artery occlusion. We report on a patient with atherosclerotic occlusion of the renal artery and its branches in whom an aortorenal bypass with a branched saphenous vein graft was performed in situ, with cure of hypertension and reversal of azotemia. This is a useful and versatile technique for replacing the renal artery and its major branches.", "PMID": 459024} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13618", "title": "Persistent fetal ureter.", "content": "Six patients have been seen with a peculiar ureteral lesion that has not been described previously. The lesion is characterized by either local segmentation or convolution and may represent either a persistent fetal ureter or a form of ureteral dysgenesis. Proximal dilatation, when present, has been less than the original radiographic appearance of high grade obstruction would lead one to expect. The ureteral lesions have disappeared progressively, suggesting that a period of conservative observation is warranted in similar situations.", "contents": "Persistent fetal ureter. Six patients have been seen with a peculiar ureteral lesion that has not been described previously. The lesion is characterized by either local segmentation or convolution and may represent either a persistent fetal ureter or a form of ureteral dysgenesis. Proximal dilatation, when present, has been less than the original radiographic appearance of high grade obstruction would lead one to expect. The ureteral lesions have disappeared progressively, suggesting that a period of conservative observation is warranted in similar situations.", "PMID": 459026} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13619", "title": "Pelvic lipomatosis: diagnosis using computed tomography.", "content": "Pelvic lipomatosis is a rare, benign disease in which the characteristic roentgenographic findings may mimic those of pelvic malignancy. In the past more than two-thirds of reported cases have been explored surgically for diagnosis. We present 2 cases to demonstrate how the definitive diagnosis of pelvic lipomatosis can be made with the aid of computed tomography to avoid invasive techniques.", "contents": "Pelvic lipomatosis: diagnosis using computed tomography. Pelvic lipomatosis is a rare, benign disease in which the characteristic roentgenographic findings may mimic those of pelvic malignancy. In the past more than two-thirds of reported cases have been explored surgically for diagnosis. We present 2 cases to demonstrate how the definitive diagnosis of pelvic lipomatosis can be made with the aid of computed tomography to avoid invasive techniques.", "PMID": 459028} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13620", "title": "Transient neuropathic bladder following herpes simplex genitalis.", "content": "A case of transient bladder dysfunction and urinary retention concomitant with herpes genitalis is presented. The protean manifestations of the herpes simplex virus, the similar neurotropic behavior of simplex and zoster, and the neurologic sequelae of the cutaneous simplex eruption are discussed. The possibility of sacral radiculopathy after herpes genitalis must be considered when evaluating acute or episodic neurogenic bladders.", "contents": "Transient neuropathic bladder following herpes simplex genitalis. A case of transient bladder dysfunction and urinary retention concomitant with herpes genitalis is presented. The protean manifestations of the herpes simplex virus, the similar neurotropic behavior of simplex and zoster, and the neurologic sequelae of the cutaneous simplex eruption are discussed. The possibility of sacral radiculopathy after herpes genitalis must be considered when evaluating acute or episodic neurogenic bladders.", "PMID": 459029} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13621", "title": "Salmonella virchow testicular abscess.", "content": "During the summer of 1977 an epidemic of salmonellosis traced to precooked, prepackaged roast beef occurred in the Northeastern United States. A case is reported of a testicular abscess, a rare manifestation of salmonellosis, in an adolescent boy who had a recent history of ingesting such roast beef. The type of Salmonella recovered from the patient was the same as a type in the epidemic.", "contents": "Salmonella virchow testicular abscess. During the summer of 1977 an epidemic of salmonellosis traced to precooked, prepackaged roast beef occurred in the Northeastern United States. A case is reported of a testicular abscess, a rare manifestation of salmonellosis, in an adolescent boy who had a recent history of ingesting such roast beef. The type of Salmonella recovered from the patient was the same as a type in the epidemic.", "PMID": 459030} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13622", "title": "Constrictive albuginitis: report of 3 cases.", "content": "Three sterile patients with constrictive albuginitis are described. The most common presenting symptom is a long duration of scrotal pain and the testicles are small and firm. Testicular biopsy is characterized by peritubular fibrosis. Spermatogenesis may be complete but the cells are degenerated. The condition is bilateral. At operation the tunica albuginea is thick, yellowish and rigid and, microscopically, it shows excessive fibrosis and hyalinosis. Sterility is related to the constrictive effect of the tunica albuginea. Treatment by decompression albugineotomy was successful in 2 patients. The benefits derived from the operation are discussed. A primary degenerative process of the tunica albuginea is suggested as causal.", "contents": "Constrictive albuginitis: report of 3 cases. Three sterile patients with constrictive albuginitis are described. The most common presenting symptom is a long duration of scrotal pain and the testicles are small and firm. Testicular biopsy is characterized by peritubular fibrosis. Spermatogenesis may be complete but the cells are degenerated. The condition is bilateral. At operation the tunica albuginea is thick, yellowish and rigid and, microscopically, it shows excessive fibrosis and hyalinosis. Sterility is related to the constrictive effect of the tunica albuginea. Treatment by decompression albugineotomy was successful in 2 patients. The benefits derived from the operation are discussed. A primary degenerative process of the tunica albuginea is suggested as causal.", "PMID": 459031} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13623", "title": "Urologic manifestations of the iliacus hematoma syndrome.", "content": "Anticoagulated patients may have a characteristic syndrome of femoral neuropathy from an iliacus muscle hematoma. They may present with urologic signs and symptoms, including groin, flank and thigh pain, groin tenderness, an iliac fossa mass and hematuria. Urography may reveal an enlarged psoas shadow and hydronephrosis from ureteral obstruction. Prompt diagnosis is essential so that early operative decompression of the femoral nerve can be done. The urologist has an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome.", "contents": "Urologic manifestations of the iliacus hematoma syndrome. Anticoagulated patients may have a characteristic syndrome of femoral neuropathy from an iliacus muscle hematoma. They may present with urologic signs and symptoms, including groin, flank and thigh pain, groin tenderness, an iliac fossa mass and hematuria. Urography may reveal an enlarged psoas shadow and hydronephrosis from ureteral obstruction. Prompt diagnosis is essential so that early operative decompression of the femoral nerve can be done. The urologist has an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome.", "PMID": 459032} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13624", "title": "Plasma biochemical values of clinically-normal Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea).", "content": "Seventeen biochemical constituents were assayed in the blood plasma of clinically-normal Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea). The sea lions formed part of a breeding colony which inhabits the southern coast of Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Little variation was found in any of the values obtained from animals of different age and sex. The results were compared with values published for California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), Northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus), Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris).", "contents": "Plasma biochemical values of clinically-normal Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea). Seventeen biochemical constituents were assayed in the blood plasma of clinically-normal Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea). The sea lions formed part of a breeding colony which inhabits the southern coast of Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Little variation was found in any of the values obtained from animals of different age and sex. The results were compared with values published for California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), Northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus), Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris).", "PMID": 459034} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13625", "title": "The occurence of coxiellosis among rodents and shrews in the Tarai area of Uttar Praedesh.", "content": "Rodents and shrews were screened for serologic evidence of Coxiella burnetii. Attempts were made to isolate the organism from the spleen and liver. Seroreactors: total positive/total tested (% positive), in rats (Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus), ground shrews (Suncus murinus), bandicoots (Bandicota indica, B. bengalensis) and the house mouse (Mus musculus), respectively, were 13/105 (12.38), 6/42 (14.3), 2/15 (13.3) and 1/7 (14.3). Of the eight rickettsial isolants recovered including four from field and household rats, three from ground shrew and one from bandicoots, only three comprising one each from rat, shrew and bandicoot, could be typed as C. burnetii. This appears to be the first record of rodents and an insectivore as reservoirs of C. burnetii in India.", "contents": "The occurence of coxiellosis among rodents and shrews in the Tarai area of Uttar Praedesh. Rodents and shrews were screened for serologic evidence of Coxiella burnetii. Attempts were made to isolate the organism from the spleen and liver. Seroreactors: total positive/total tested (% positive), in rats (Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus), ground shrews (Suncus murinus), bandicoots (Bandicota indica, B. bengalensis) and the house mouse (Mus musculus), respectively, were 13/105 (12.38), 6/42 (14.3), 2/15 (13.3) and 1/7 (14.3). Of the eight rickettsial isolants recovered including four from field and household rats, three from ground shrew and one from bandicoots, only three comprising one each from rat, shrew and bandicoot, could be typed as C. burnetii. This appears to be the first record of rodents and an insectivore as reservoirs of C. burnetii in India.", "PMID": 459035} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13626", "title": "Blood characteristics of the African elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis).", "content": "Mean corpuscular volume, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration and red and white cell counts from five domesticated African elephants were measured. The results obtained are tabulated and compared with those from shot and chemically immobilized African elephants.", "contents": "Blood characteristics of the African elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis). Mean corpuscular volume, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration and red and white cell counts from five domesticated African elephants were measured. The results obtained are tabulated and compared with those from shot and chemically immobilized African elephants.", "PMID": 459036} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13627", "title": "Hematologic and serum chemistry values of pen-raised coyotes.", "content": "Blood samples obtained from 48, eighteen-month-old pen-raised coyotes (Canis latrans) were analyzed for 32 hematologic and serum chemistry parameters. Mean, standard deviation, and range were established for each parameter. No differences attributable to sex were observed for any parameter. The reported hematologic and serum chemistry values establish non-fasting baseline values for pen-raised coyotes.", "contents": "Hematologic and serum chemistry values of pen-raised coyotes. Blood samples obtained from 48, eighteen-month-old pen-raised coyotes (Canis latrans) were analyzed for 32 hematologic and serum chemistry parameters. Mean, standard deviation, and range were established for each parameter. No differences attributable to sex were observed for any parameter. The reported hematologic and serum chemistry values establish non-fasting baseline values for pen-raised coyotes.", "PMID": 459037} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13628", "title": "Treatment of an acquired abdominal hernia in a polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus).", "content": "A heart rate radio-transmitter was surgically implanted in the abdomen of a captive adult male polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus), but within five weeks a purulent discharge was observed at the incision site. The transmitter was surgically removed along with many fragments of the fractured encapsulation material. The skin incision healed, but a large hernia remained. Repeated localized trauma to the hernia sac necessitated surgical repair.", "contents": "Treatment of an acquired abdominal hernia in a polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus). A heart rate radio-transmitter was surgically implanted in the abdomen of a captive adult male polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus), but within five weeks a purulent discharge was observed at the incision site. The transmitter was surgically removed along with many fragments of the fractured encapsulation material. The skin incision healed, but a large hernia remained. Repeated localized trauma to the hernia sac necessitated surgical repair.", "PMID": 459038} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13629", "title": "Wet versus dry weights for heavy metal toxicity determinations in duck liver.", "content": "Determinations for heavy metals in duck liver using wet weight in lieu of dry weight produced errors that could not be quantitated. Weight loss through air-drying ranged from 10 to 21% in the first 2 h. for frozen tissue and 7 to 11% for fresh tissue. This difference becomes increasingly variable with time.", "contents": "Wet versus dry weights for heavy metal toxicity determinations in duck liver. Determinations for heavy metals in duck liver using wet weight in lieu of dry weight produced errors that could not be quantitated. Weight loss through air-drying ranged from 10 to 21% in the first 2 h. for frozen tissue and 7 to 11% for fresh tissue. This difference becomes increasingly variable with time.", "PMID": 459039} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13630", "title": "Some parasitic and infectious diseases in waterfowl in Oklahoma.", "content": "Blood films and serum samples from free-ranging waterfowl wintering in and migrating through Oklahoma were examined for hematozoa and tested for antibody responses to Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and type-A influenza. One-hundred-eleven of 728 birds (15.24%) were positive for 1 or more hematozoa. Serologic testing revealed 11 of 280 (3.93%) positive for antibody to NDV and 5 of 171 (2.95%) positive for antibody to type-A influenza.", "contents": "Some parasitic and infectious diseases in waterfowl in Oklahoma. Blood films and serum samples from free-ranging waterfowl wintering in and migrating through Oklahoma were examined for hematozoa and tested for antibody responses to Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and type-A influenza. One-hundred-eleven of 728 birds (15.24%) were positive for 1 or more hematozoa. Serologic testing revealed 11 of 280 (3.93%) positive for antibody to NDV and 5 of 171 (2.95%) positive for antibody to type-A influenza.", "PMID": 459041} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13631", "title": "Poikilotherms as reservoirs of Q-fever (Coxiella burnetii) in Uttar Pradesh.", "content": "Water snakes (Natrix natrix), rat snakes (Ptyas korros), cobras (Naja naja), pythons (Python molurus), tortoises (Kachuga sp.), plankton fish (Cirrhina mrigala), frogs (Rana tigrina), toads (Bufo sp.) and monitors (Varanus indicus) were screened for evidence of Q-fever infection by the capillary agglutination test on sera to detect antibodies and/or by attempts to demonstrate Coxiella burnetii in spleen and liver samples. Sero-reactors were observed among water and rat snakes, pythons and tortoises. The organism was isolated from the spleen and liver of the monitor, tortoise and python.", "contents": "Poikilotherms as reservoirs of Q-fever (Coxiella burnetii) in Uttar Pradesh. Water snakes (Natrix natrix), rat snakes (Ptyas korros), cobras (Naja naja), pythons (Python molurus), tortoises (Kachuga sp.), plankton fish (Cirrhina mrigala), frogs (Rana tigrina), toads (Bufo sp.) and monitors (Varanus indicus) were screened for evidence of Q-fever infection by the capillary agglutination test on sera to detect antibodies and/or by attempts to demonstrate Coxiella burnetii in spleen and liver samples. Sero-reactors were observed among water and rat snakes, pythons and tortoises. The organism was isolated from the spleen and liver of the monitor, tortoise and python.", "PMID": 459042} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13632", "title": "Avian cholera in waterfowl in Saskatchewan, spring 1977.", "content": "Avian cholera was diagnosed in lesser snow geese (Anser c. caerulescens), Ross' geese (Anser rossii) and individuals of several other waterfowl species in a small area of south-western Saskatchewan over a 1 month period during the 1977 spring migration. Approximately 250 dead birds were found. This is apparently the first time avian cholera has been reported in migrating waterfowl in Canada. The site of the mortality was midway between the wintering and nesting areas of the two principal species, and the significance of the occurrence of the disease this far north is discussed.", "contents": "Avian cholera in waterfowl in Saskatchewan, spring 1977. Avian cholera was diagnosed in lesser snow geese (Anser c. caerulescens), Ross' geese (Anser rossii) and individuals of several other waterfowl species in a small area of south-western Saskatchewan over a 1 month period during the 1977 spring migration. Approximately 250 dead birds were found. This is apparently the first time avian cholera has been reported in migrating waterfowl in Canada. The site of the mortality was midway between the wintering and nesting areas of the two principal species, and the significance of the occurrence of the disease this far north is discussed.", "PMID": 459043} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13633", "title": "Antibodies to Clostridium botulinum toxins in free-living birds and mammals.", "content": "Naturally-occuring antibodies against Clostridium botulinum toxins were found in Cathartes aura (turkey vultures), Canis latrans (coyotes) and Corvus brachyrhynchos (crows) by the passive hemagglutination (PHA) test and verified by the serum neutralization (SN) test. The prevalence of IHA antibodies was 18 of 20 vultures (90%), 5 of 12 crows (42%) and 25 to 110 coyotes (23%). Vultures and coyotes were seropositive by the PHA test against A, B, C, D, and F toxins. The highest antibody titer 1:8192 was in vulture serum against type C. In descending order, the highest antibody levels were against type C, D, F, E, A and B toxins.", "contents": "Antibodies to Clostridium botulinum toxins in free-living birds and mammals. Naturally-occuring antibodies against Clostridium botulinum toxins were found in Cathartes aura (turkey vultures), Canis latrans (coyotes) and Corvus brachyrhynchos (crows) by the passive hemagglutination (PHA) test and verified by the serum neutralization (SN) test. The prevalence of IHA antibodies was 18 of 20 vultures (90%), 5 of 12 crows (42%) and 25 to 110 coyotes (23%). Vultures and coyotes were seropositive by the PHA test against A, B, C, D, and F toxins. The highest antibody titer 1:8192 was in vulture serum against type C. In descending order, the highest antibody levels were against type C, D, F, E, A and B toxins.", "PMID": 459044} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13634", "title": "A summary of the prevalence of Parelaphostrongylus tenuis in a captive wapiti population.", "content": "A total of 87 brains from harvested and collected wapiti and red deer (Cervus spp.) were examined grossly and microscopically between 1973 and 1977 in a 2104 ha. preserve. Prevalence of infection significantly increased from 26.6% of the sample in 1973 to 64.3% in 1975 (P less than .05). A decline to 47.7% in 1977 (P greater than .05) was not significant. However, the number of clinical cases was significantly higher in 1976-1977 (P less than .02) than previously reported in 1973-1975.", "contents": "A summary of the prevalence of Parelaphostrongylus tenuis in a captive wapiti population. A total of 87 brains from harvested and collected wapiti and red deer (Cervus spp.) were examined grossly and microscopically between 1973 and 1977 in a 2104 ha. preserve. Prevalence of infection significantly increased from 26.6% of the sample in 1973 to 64.3% in 1975 (P less than .05). A decline to 47.7% in 1977 (P greater than .05) was not significant. However, the number of clinical cases was significantly higher in 1976-1977 (P less than .02) than previously reported in 1973-1975.", "PMID": 459045} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13635", "title": "Cerebrospinal nematodiasis caused by Parelaphostrongylus tenuis in Angora goats in Texas.", "content": "A natural infection of meningeal worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis) accounted for the death of 11 of 17 (65%) Angora goats in a study in South Texas during 1975. Clinical signs, gross pathology and histopathology in Angoras were similar to other abnormal hosts.", "contents": "Cerebrospinal nematodiasis caused by Parelaphostrongylus tenuis in Angora goats in Texas. A natural infection of meningeal worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis) accounted for the death of 11 of 17 (65%) Angora goats in a study in South Texas during 1975. Clinical signs, gross pathology and histopathology in Angoras were similar to other abnormal hosts.", "PMID": 459046} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13636", "title": "Prevalence of parasitism by Amblyomma americanum on wild turkey poults as influenced by prescribed burning.", "content": "Captive-raised eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) poults were allowed to forage on either recently burned plots or on plots that had not been burned during the previous 3 years. Following a two hour exposure on the study plots, external parasites were recovered from all poults. The louse (Menacanthus stramineus) and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) were the only parasites recovered. Fifty-nine poults exposed to the burned plots had a significantly (P less than 0.001) lower prevalence of A. americanum infestation than did 57 poults exposed to the unbured plots. Thirty-five percent of the poults exposed to the unburned plots were infested by A. americanum. A single A. americanum was recovered from one poult exposed to burned plots.", "contents": "Prevalence of parasitism by Amblyomma americanum on wild turkey poults as influenced by prescribed burning. Captive-raised eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) poults were allowed to forage on either recently burned plots or on plots that had not been burned during the previous 3 years. Following a two hour exposure on the study plots, external parasites were recovered from all poults. The louse (Menacanthus stramineus) and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) were the only parasites recovered. Fifty-nine poults exposed to the burned plots had a significantly (P less than 0.001) lower prevalence of A. americanum infestation than did 57 poults exposed to the unbured plots. Thirty-five percent of the poults exposed to the unburned plots were infested by A. americanum. A single A. americanum was recovered from one poult exposed to burned plots.", "PMID": 459047} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13637", "title": "Helminths recovered from black bears in the Peace River region of northwestern Alberta.", "content": "A total of 91 free-ranging black bears (Ursus americanus) from the Peace River region of northwestern Alberta was examined for helminths. Four species, Baylisascaris transfuga, Taenia krabbei, Taenia hydatigena and Dirofilaria ursi, were found. None of the bears was heavily infected. Results are compared with other similar North American surveys.", "contents": "Helminths recovered from black bears in the Peace River region of northwestern Alberta. A total of 91 free-ranging black bears (Ursus americanus) from the Peace River region of northwestern Alberta was examined for helminths. Four species, Baylisascaris transfuga, Taenia krabbei, Taenia hydatigena and Dirofilaria ursi, were found. None of the bears was heavily infected. Results are compared with other similar North American surveys.", "PMID": 459048} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13638", "title": "Heart failure associated with unusual hepatic inclusions in a Deckert's rat snake.", "content": "A juvenile Deckert's rat snake, Elaphe obsoleta deckerti, was presented with a circumferential enlargement of the body in the region of the heart. The heart was enlarged approximately twice normal size. Focal mineralized lesions were present in the tunica media of the right aorta and the right atrioventricular valve. The normal sinusoid architecture of the liver was disrupted with deeply eosinophilic to lightly basophilic granules of variable size in the cytoplasm and light eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions. Similar appearing intracytoplasmic granules were seen in the glomeruli and kidney tubules.", "contents": "Heart failure associated with unusual hepatic inclusions in a Deckert's rat snake. A juvenile Deckert's rat snake, Elaphe obsoleta deckerti, was presented with a circumferential enlargement of the body in the region of the heart. The heart was enlarged approximately twice normal size. Focal mineralized lesions were present in the tunica media of the right aorta and the right atrioventricular valve. The normal sinusoid architecture of the liver was disrupted with deeply eosinophilic to lightly basophilic granules of variable size in the cytoplasm and light eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions. Similar appearing intracytoplasmic granules were seen in the glomeruli and kidney tubules.", "PMID": 459049} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13639", "title": "Selected clinicopathologic changes associated with experimentally induced Fascioloides magna infection in white-tailed deer.", "content": "Six white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), less than one year of age, were divided into two groups of three each and administered 50, or 500 metacercariae of ascioloides magna. All six deer became infected. Three additional deer of the same age were uninoculated controls. All deer were monitored for up to 43 weeks after inoculation to investigate changes in weight, selected hematologic values, and blood chemistry values. Although clinical disease was not evident in the infected deer, a significant reduction (p less than .01) in hemoglobin and packed cell volume was detected throughout the experiment. A significant elevation (p less than .01) in the total serum protein level was detected in both infected groups from 0 to 5 months after inoculation. Increases were present in the beta and gamma globulin fractions. No differences (p greater than .05) were detected in the serum calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus levels, or in body weights between infected and uninfected control groups.", "contents": "Selected clinicopathologic changes associated with experimentally induced Fascioloides magna infection in white-tailed deer. Six white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), less than one year of age, were divided into two groups of three each and administered 50, or 500 metacercariae of ascioloides magna. All six deer became infected. Three additional deer of the same age were uninoculated controls. All deer were monitored for up to 43 weeks after inoculation to investigate changes in weight, selected hematologic values, and blood chemistry values. Although clinical disease was not evident in the infected deer, a significant reduction (p less than .01) in hemoglobin and packed cell volume was detected throughout the experiment. A significant elevation (p less than .01) in the total serum protein level was detected in both infected groups from 0 to 5 months after inoculation. Increases were present in the beta and gamma globulin fractions. No differences (p greater than .05) were detected in the serum calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus levels, or in body weights between infected and uninfected control groups.", "PMID": 459050} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13640", "title": "Reported causes of death of captive killer whales (Orcinus orca).", "content": "Inquiries were made to all oceanaria that maintain killer whales in North America. Causes of death determined at necropsy included mediastinal abscesses, pyometra, pneumonia, influenza, salmonellosis, nephritis, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, fungus infection, ruptured aorta, cerebral hemorrhage and a perforated post-pyloric ulcer. Captive females appear to have a higher rate of mortality than males. Growth rates for whales that died were greater than for those that survived.", "contents": "Reported causes of death of captive killer whales (Orcinus orca). Inquiries were made to all oceanaria that maintain killer whales in North America. Causes of death determined at necropsy included mediastinal abscesses, pyometra, pneumonia, influenza, salmonellosis, nephritis, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, fungus infection, ruptured aorta, cerebral hemorrhage and a perforated post-pyloric ulcer. Captive females appear to have a higher rate of mortality than males. Growth rates for whales that died were greater than for those that survived.", "PMID": 459051} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13641", "title": "The risk and cost of coronary angiography. I. Cost of coronary angiography in Washington State.", "content": "The National Guidelines for Health Planning require 300 cardiac studies per year in cardiac catheterization laboratories for adequate economic use and safety. To study how these guidelines would affect existing laboratories, data were collected on the cost of coronary angiography and use of all cardiac catheterization laboratories in Washington. The average cost of coronary angiography was $1,363, with the total cost affected by the duration of hospital stay, cardiac laboratory charges, and professional fees. Total angiographic use ranged from 293 to 791 studies per room, but eight laboratories did not perform 300 cardiac studies during 1977. Health planners recommend high use rates based on the theory that there is an inverse correlation between the number of studies and cost. In this study, the regression equation showed no fall in charges with increased number of studies. Therefore, while it may be reasonable from an economic point of view to expect 300 angiographic cases per year in existing laboratories, there is no economic justification for requiring a certain number of cardiac studies per year.", "contents": "The risk and cost of coronary angiography. I. Cost of coronary angiography in Washington State. The National Guidelines for Health Planning require 300 cardiac studies per year in cardiac catheterization laboratories for adequate economic use and safety. To study how these guidelines would affect existing laboratories, data were collected on the cost of coronary angiography and use of all cardiac catheterization laboratories in Washington. The average cost of coronary angiography was $1,363, with the total cost affected by the duration of hospital stay, cardiac laboratory charges, and professional fees. Total angiographic use ranged from 293 to 791 studies per room, but eight laboratories did not perform 300 cardiac studies during 1977. Health planners recommend high use rates based on the theory that there is an inverse correlation between the number of studies and cost. In this study, the regression equation showed no fall in charges with increased number of studies. Therefore, while it may be reasonable from an economic point of view to expect 300 angiographic cases per year in existing laboratories, there is no economic justification for requiring a certain number of cardiac studies per year.", "PMID": 459061} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13642", "title": "The risk and cost of coronary angiography. II. The risk of coronary angiography in Washington State.", "content": "The risk of coronary angiography has been decreasing since development of the procedure 19 years ago. Deaths resulting from angiography now occur only in high-risk clinical circumstances. Whether a certain case load per angiographer or laboratory is necessary for adequate safety is still a question. Even though little available data exist on the relationship of case loads to risk, the National Guidelines for Health Planning now require 300 cardiac catheterizations per laboratory per year and forbid development of new laboratories in hospitals without heart surgery programs. Data collected from all 16 laboratories in Washington showed 26 deaths (0.19%) during 14,050 coronary angiograms. Eighteen of those who died had a severe left main coronary obstruction, and three had severe triple-vessel disease. There were 18 myocardial infarctions (0.13%) and nine strokes (0.06%). The risks in hospitals without cardiac surgery programs and in hospitals performing fewer than 200 cases per year were no higher than in the other hospitals studied. The National Guidelines should be reevaluated before they are used to change the existing pattern of health care.", "contents": "The risk and cost of coronary angiography. II. The risk of coronary angiography in Washington State. The risk of coronary angiography has been decreasing since development of the procedure 19 years ago. Deaths resulting from angiography now occur only in high-risk clinical circumstances. Whether a certain case load per angiographer or laboratory is necessary for adequate safety is still a question. Even though little available data exist on the relationship of case loads to risk, the National Guidelines for Health Planning now require 300 cardiac catheterizations per laboratory per year and forbid development of new laboratories in hospitals without heart surgery programs. Data collected from all 16 laboratories in Washington showed 26 deaths (0.19%) during 14,050 coronary angiograms. Eighteen of those who died had a severe left main coronary obstruction, and three had severe triple-vessel disease. There were 18 myocardial infarctions (0.13%) and nine strokes (0.06%). The risks in hospitals without cardiac surgery programs and in hospitals performing fewer than 200 cases per year were no higher than in the other hospitals studied. The National Guidelines should be reevaluated before they are used to change the existing pattern of health care.", "PMID": 459062} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13643", "title": "El Paso revisited. Epidemiologic follow-up of an environmental lead problem.", "content": "Increased lead absorption was found in 1972 in 56% of 256 children aged 1 to 18 years who lived within 1.6 km of a lead-emitting ore smeltery in El Paso, Tex. Engineering improvements have subsequently reduced emissions from the smeltery, and levels of lead in air, dust, and soil have declined. To evaluate the impact of these environmental improvements on lead absorption, we conducted a follow-up study in 1977 of blood lead levels in 140 children aged 1 through 18 years who lived within 1.6 km of the smeltery. Mean blood lead levels were found to have decreased from 41.4 to 17.7 microgram/dL in children living within 0.8 km of the plant and from 31.2 to 20.2 microgram/dL in children living at 0.8 to 1.6 km. These data argue for the feasibility of reducing children's lead absorption near primary lead smelteries.", "contents": "El Paso revisited. Epidemiologic follow-up of an environmental lead problem. Increased lead absorption was found in 1972 in 56% of 256 children aged 1 to 18 years who lived within 1.6 km of a lead-emitting ore smeltery in El Paso, Tex. Engineering improvements have subsequently reduced emissions from the smeltery, and levels of lead in air, dust, and soil have declined. To evaluate the impact of these environmental improvements on lead absorption, we conducted a follow-up study in 1977 of blood lead levels in 140 children aged 1 through 18 years who lived within 1.6 km of the smeltery. Mean blood lead levels were found to have decreased from 41.4 to 17.7 microgram/dL in children living within 0.8 km of the plant and from 31.2 to 20.2 microgram/dL in children living at 0.8 to 1.6 km. These data argue for the feasibility of reducing children's lead absorption near primary lead smelteries.", "PMID": 459063} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13644", "title": "The myth of involutional melancholia.", "content": "Depressions occurring in the menopausal years do not fit the description in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, edition 2. Depressed patients who are in the menopausal years do not have a distinct symptom pattern, an absence of previous episodes, or an absence of life-stress precipitants. The evidence thus far supports the decision to exclude involutional melancholia, as currently defined, from the forthcoming Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, edition 3.", "contents": "The myth of involutional melancholia. Depressions occurring in the menopausal years do not fit the description in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, edition 2. Depressed patients who are in the menopausal years do not have a distinct symptom pattern, an absence of previous episodes, or an absence of life-stress precipitants. The evidence thus far supports the decision to exclude involutional melancholia, as currently defined, from the forthcoming Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, edition 3.", "PMID": 459064} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13645", "title": "Plasma ADH levels during heart surgery.", "content": "1) Plasma ADH levels measured by bioassay in the group with extracorporeal circulation were 2.3 +/- 0.6 muu/ml before surgery and 6.6 +/- 1.8 muu/ml during anesthesia. They increased to 196.5 +/- 62.3 muu/ml or about 100 times greater than before surgery during cardiopulmonary bypass. 2) In the group without extracorporeal circulation, plasma ADH levels were 1.5 +/- 0.9 muu/ml before surgery and increased to 44.1 +/- 15.2 muu/ml during operation. 3) After operation decrease in plasma ADH level was relatively rapid in both groups. It became three times that of the control level in the morning of the next day. 4) Marked increase in plasma ADH level during cardiopulmonary bypass was much the same as it was during hemorrhagic shock in dog experiments. 5) Fall in mean arterial blood pressure and loss of pulsatile blood flow will play main roles in this marked increase in ADH during cardiopulmonary bypass through stimulation of arterial baroreceptors and probably chemoreceptors. 6) In two cases with mitral stenosis, increase in plasma ADH during cardiopulmonary bypass was lesser than the other heart diseases.", "contents": "Plasma ADH levels during heart surgery. 1) Plasma ADH levels measured by bioassay in the group with extracorporeal circulation were 2.3 +/- 0.6 muu/ml before surgery and 6.6 +/- 1.8 muu/ml during anesthesia. They increased to 196.5 +/- 62.3 muu/ml or about 100 times greater than before surgery during cardiopulmonary bypass. 2) In the group without extracorporeal circulation, plasma ADH levels were 1.5 +/- 0.9 muu/ml before surgery and increased to 44.1 +/- 15.2 muu/ml during operation. 3) After operation decrease in plasma ADH level was relatively rapid in both groups. It became three times that of the control level in the morning of the next day. 4) Marked increase in plasma ADH level during cardiopulmonary bypass was much the same as it was during hemorrhagic shock in dog experiments. 5) Fall in mean arterial blood pressure and loss of pulsatile blood flow will play main roles in this marked increase in ADH during cardiopulmonary bypass through stimulation of arterial baroreceptors and probably chemoreceptors. 6) In two cases with mitral stenosis, increase in plasma ADH during cardiopulmonary bypass was lesser than the other heart diseases.", "PMID": 459073} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13646", "title": "A morphological study of atherosclerotic lesions occurring at the root of aorta.", "content": "While studying morphological changes in heart 1-3 cm of Aorta was also removed and incidence of atherosclerosis in that portion was studied. In all 110 aortas were examined. Atherosclerotic lesions were observed in 77 aortas (70.0%). The incidence increases with the age and beyond 4th decade all the aortas were affected. Fatty streaks were observed in 2nd decade involving only 7.5% of the total intimal surface and reaching to a maximum of 22.2% in the 3rd decade, followed by a gradual rise to 9.2% in 7th decade. Complicated lesions though occurred in 3rd decade involving 0.7% surface but a maximum coverage (4.5%) was seen in 7th decade. These findings have been discussed in the light of observations of other workers. There is slow progression of fibrous plaques and paucity complicated lesions in Indians as compared to white population. The study has further revealed that the encrustation of mural thrombi is probably the main basis for the progression of the atheromatous lesion.", "contents": "A morphological study of atherosclerotic lesions occurring at the root of aorta. While studying morphological changes in heart 1-3 cm of Aorta was also removed and incidence of atherosclerosis in that portion was studied. In all 110 aortas were examined. Atherosclerotic lesions were observed in 77 aortas (70.0%). The incidence increases with the age and beyond 4th decade all the aortas were affected. Fatty streaks were observed in 2nd decade involving only 7.5% of the total intimal surface and reaching to a maximum of 22.2% in the 3rd decade, followed by a gradual rise to 9.2% in 7th decade. Complicated lesions though occurred in 3rd decade involving 0.7% surface but a maximum coverage (4.5%) was seen in 7th decade. These findings have been discussed in the light of observations of other workers. There is slow progression of fibrous plaques and paucity complicated lesions in Indians as compared to white population. The study has further revealed that the encrustation of mural thrombi is probably the main basis for the progression of the atheromatous lesion.", "PMID": 459074} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13647", "title": "Acid phosphatase activity of the brain in SHR-- the first report of enzyme histochemical studies of spontaneously hypertensive rat brain.", "content": "Changes in acid phosphatase activity in the cerebrovascular system and brain parenchyma in SHR were investigated histochemically. An increased activity of the enzyme was demonstrated in the SHR endothelial and medial smooth muscle cells of the cerebral arterial system as compared to the control. The pericytes of intraparenchymal blood vessels also showed an intensified enzyme activity. The enzyme activity increased with advancing age. In SHR brain parenchyma, the enzyme activity was decreased in the cortical nerve cells. Glial cells with the enzyme activity were increased in number and showed an intensified activity. Causative factors of changes in acid phosphatase activity in SHR cerebral arteries and parenchyma were discussed.", "contents": "Acid phosphatase activity of the brain in SHR-- the first report of enzyme histochemical studies of spontaneously hypertensive rat brain. Changes in acid phosphatase activity in the cerebrovascular system and brain parenchyma in SHR were investigated histochemically. An increased activity of the enzyme was demonstrated in the SHR endothelial and medial smooth muscle cells of the cerebral arterial system as compared to the control. The pericytes of intraparenchymal blood vessels also showed an intensified enzyme activity. The enzyme activity increased with advancing age. In SHR brain parenchyma, the enzyme activity was decreased in the cortical nerve cells. Glial cells with the enzyme activity were increased in number and showed an intensified activity. Causative factors of changes in acid phosphatase activity in SHR cerebral arteries and parenchyma were discussed.", "PMID": 459075} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13648", "title": "Diagnosis and classification of the mitral valve prolapse by the ultrasoundcardiotomography and the evaluation of the M-mode technic.", "content": "Eighty cases with mitral valve prolapse excluding the secondary prolapse of the mitral valve caused by known underlying diseases were studied by real-time ultrasoundcardiotomography and M-mode technic. It was thought that observation of the left ventricle with long axis sector scan was useful and sensitive technic to diagnose the mitral valve prolapse. By comparative study of M-mode technic and ultrasoundcardiotomography, echo sources and the mechanism of so called prolapse patterns such as pansystolic bowing, mid-systolic buckling and multilayered echoes were explained. Pansystolic bowing and mid-systolic buckling were considered as the reliable signs for diagnosis of anterior leaflet prolapse, but were not contributory to diagnose posterior leaflet prolapse and ultrasoundcardiotomographic technic was needed to detect the posterior leaflet prolapse. According to the mode of prolapsing findings by ultrasoundcardiotomograms classification of severity of mitral valve prolapse was undertaken and its grade was expressed as AmPn in which A and P designated prolapse of the anterior and posterior leaflet respectively and m and n indicated the grade of severity in number from zero to five.", "contents": "Diagnosis and classification of the mitral valve prolapse by the ultrasoundcardiotomography and the evaluation of the M-mode technic. Eighty cases with mitral valve prolapse excluding the secondary prolapse of the mitral valve caused by known underlying diseases were studied by real-time ultrasoundcardiotomography and M-mode technic. It was thought that observation of the left ventricle with long axis sector scan was useful and sensitive technic to diagnose the mitral valve prolapse. By comparative study of M-mode technic and ultrasoundcardiotomography, echo sources and the mechanism of so called prolapse patterns such as pansystolic bowing, mid-systolic buckling and multilayered echoes were explained. Pansystolic bowing and mid-systolic buckling were considered as the reliable signs for diagnosis of anterior leaflet prolapse, but were not contributory to diagnose posterior leaflet prolapse and ultrasoundcardiotomographic technic was needed to detect the posterior leaflet prolapse. According to the mode of prolapsing findings by ultrasoundcardiotomograms classification of severity of mitral valve prolapse was undertaken and its grade was expressed as AmPn in which A and P designated prolapse of the anterior and posterior leaflet respectively and m and n indicated the grade of severity in number from zero to five.", "PMID": 459078} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13649", "title": "[Clinical study of bacampicillin granules in pediatrics (author's transl)].", "content": "Clinical study on bacampicillin (BAPC) granules was performed in 20 children with infectious diseases. Patients treated with BAPC granules were 10 cases of scarlet fever, 3 cases of pertussis, 3 cases of Salmonella enteritis and 4 cases of acute enteritis. Clinical results were excellent in 2, good in 9, fair in 3, poor in 4 and unknown in 2. No side effect was observed.", "contents": "[Clinical study of bacampicillin granules in pediatrics (author's transl)]. Clinical study on bacampicillin (BAPC) granules was performed in 20 children with infectious diseases. Patients treated with BAPC granules were 10 cases of scarlet fever, 3 cases of pertussis, 3 cases of Salmonella enteritis and 4 cases of acute enteritis. Clinical results were excellent in 2, good in 9, fair in 3, poor in 4 and unknown in 2. No side effect was observed.", "PMID": 459083} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13650", "title": "[An investigation on bacampicillin granules (author's transl)].", "content": "We investigated bacampicillin (BAPC) granules in the field of pediatrics. 1) Average serum levels after administration of BAPC granules at a dose of 10 mg/kg as ABPC were 6.8 mug/ml at 1 hour, 1.4 mug/ml at 6 hours. Average urinary excretion rate till 6 hours was 84.5%. Those results were almost same as those obtained with BAPC tablet. 2) We treated patients with acute tonsillitis, lacunar tonsillitis and acute bronchitis by BAPC granules at a dose of 30 approximately 40 mg potency/kg for 3 approximately 5 days, and excellent results were obtained. 3) In the case of streptococcal infections including scarlet fever, pharyngeal streptococci disappeared 1 approximately 2 days after administration and did not reappeared. 4) BAPC granules were easy to intake for children and no abnormal laboratory finding was observed. 5) BAPC granules seem to be useful for treatment of pediatric infections.", "contents": "[An investigation on bacampicillin granules (author's transl)]. We investigated bacampicillin (BAPC) granules in the field of pediatrics. 1) Average serum levels after administration of BAPC granules at a dose of 10 mg/kg as ABPC were 6.8 mug/ml at 1 hour, 1.4 mug/ml at 6 hours. Average urinary excretion rate till 6 hours was 84.5%. Those results were almost same as those obtained with BAPC tablet. 2) We treated patients with acute tonsillitis, lacunar tonsillitis and acute bronchitis by BAPC granules at a dose of 30 approximately 40 mg potency/kg for 3 approximately 5 days, and excellent results were obtained. 3) In the case of streptococcal infections including scarlet fever, pharyngeal streptococci disappeared 1 approximately 2 days after administration and did not reappeared. 4) BAPC granules were easy to intake for children and no abnormal laboratory finding was observed. 5) BAPC granules seem to be useful for treatment of pediatric infections.", "PMID": 459084} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13651", "title": "[Effect of fosfomycin-calcium on reproductive performance of rat and rabbit: teratogenicity test (author's transl)].", "content": "The teratogenicity study of fosfomycin-Ca (FOM-Ca) was undertaken in Wistar strain rats and JW strain rabbits. Rats were treated orally at dose levels of 140,700 and 1,400 mg/kg/day from 7th to 17th day of gestation, and rabbits were treated orally at dose levels of 80, 140 and 420 mg/kg/day from 6th to 18th day of gestation. In the case of rats, two-thirds of pregnant mothers in each group were sacrificed on 20th day of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. The remaining mothers were allowed to deliver naturally, and then their offsprings were examined for postnatal development. In the case of rabbits, all pregnant mothers were sacrificed on 29th day of gestation and their fetuses were examined. No effect of FOM-Ca treatment to rat and rabbit mothers was found except soft stool was seen with maximum dose in rats. Dead or resorbed rate of fetuses increased, external anomalies (short tail, abdominal hernia) were found and skeletal anomalies slight increased with maximum dose in rats. However, there was no significant difference from the control or background data. While, no effect of FOM-Ca treatment was observed in rabbits and rat offsprings. Consequently, it can be concluded that FOM-Ca has no teratogenicity effects on rats and rabbits.", "contents": "[Effect of fosfomycin-calcium on reproductive performance of rat and rabbit: teratogenicity test (author's transl)]. The teratogenicity study of fosfomycin-Ca (FOM-Ca) was undertaken in Wistar strain rats and JW strain rabbits. Rats were treated orally at dose levels of 140,700 and 1,400 mg/kg/day from 7th to 17th day of gestation, and rabbits were treated orally at dose levels of 80, 140 and 420 mg/kg/day from 6th to 18th day of gestation. In the case of rats, two-thirds of pregnant mothers in each group were sacrificed on 20th day of gestation and then their fetuses were examined for external, visceral and skeletal observation. The remaining mothers were allowed to deliver naturally, and then their offsprings were examined for postnatal development. In the case of rabbits, all pregnant mothers were sacrificed on 29th day of gestation and their fetuses were examined. No effect of FOM-Ca treatment to rat and rabbit mothers was found except soft stool was seen with maximum dose in rats. Dead or resorbed rate of fetuses increased, external anomalies (short tail, abdominal hernia) were found and skeletal anomalies slight increased with maximum dose in rats. However, there was no significant difference from the control or background data. While, no effect of FOM-Ca treatment was observed in rabbits and rat offsprings. Consequently, it can be concluded that FOM-Ca has no teratogenicity effects on rats and rabbits.", "PMID": 459085} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13652", "title": "[Therapeutic effect of midecamycin on Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in adults (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical efficacy of a macrolide antibiotic, midecamycin, was studied in 12 adult cases with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. The therapeutic effects were excellent or good in 9 cases and fair in 2 cases. On defervescence and disappearance of shadows on chest X-ray the therapeutic effect was satisfactory, but on disappearance of cough therapeutic effect was not clear in some cases. Taking into consideration the antimicrobial activity of midecamycin against Mycoplasma pneumoniae, serum concentration and side effects of midecamycin, this antibiotic is expected to be effective in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.", "contents": "[Therapeutic effect of midecamycin on Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in adults (author's transl)]. The clinical efficacy of a macrolide antibiotic, midecamycin, was studied in 12 adult cases with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. The therapeutic effects were excellent or good in 9 cases and fair in 2 cases. On defervescence and disappearance of shadows on chest X-ray the therapeutic effect was satisfactory, but on disappearance of cough therapeutic effect was not clear in some cases. Taking into consideration the antimicrobial activity of midecamycin against Mycoplasma pneumoniae, serum concentration and side effects of midecamycin, this antibiotic is expected to be effective in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.", "PMID": 459086} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13653", "title": "[Clinical studies on PC-904 in biliary tract diseases (author's transl)].", "content": "The clinical effects of PC-904, a new semisynthetic penicillin, were studied in patients with biliary tract diseases, and the results were as follows: 1) PC-904 showed an average peak serum level of 40.7 +/- 11.6 microgram/ml 2 hours after an intravenous drip infusion of 1 g of the agent. The biliary level showed a peak value of 126.5 +/- 85.4 microgram/ml 2 hours to 3 hours after the infusion. 2) Isolated organisms from bile before the treatment were E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus and Bacteroides. MIC of PC-904 on 18 strains of isolated organisms was almost 6.25 microgram/ml or less. All isolated organisms except one strain of Klebsiella oxytoca disappeared after the treatment. 3) Six patients with cholelithiasis were medicated with PC-904 to prevent post-operative infections. The clinical effects were good in 4, poor in 1 and unknown in 1 case. 4) As to side effects no adverse reactions and allergic reactions were noted. Also no significant abnormalities of laboratory findings were observed.", "contents": "[Clinical studies on PC-904 in biliary tract diseases (author's transl)]. The clinical effects of PC-904, a new semisynthetic penicillin, were studied in patients with biliary tract diseases, and the results were as follows: 1) PC-904 showed an average peak serum level of 40.7 +/- 11.6 microgram/ml 2 hours after an intravenous drip infusion of 1 g of the agent. The biliary level showed a peak value of 126.5 +/- 85.4 microgram/ml 2 hours to 3 hours after the infusion. 2) Isolated organisms from bile before the treatment were E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus and Bacteroides. MIC of PC-904 on 18 strains of isolated organisms was almost 6.25 microgram/ml or less. All isolated organisms except one strain of Klebsiella oxytoca disappeared after the treatment. 3) Six patients with cholelithiasis were medicated with PC-904 to prevent post-operative infections. The clinical effects were good in 4, poor in 1 and unknown in 1 case. 4) As to side effects no adverse reactions and allergic reactions were noted. Also no significant abnormalities of laboratory findings were observed.", "PMID": 459091} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13654", "title": "The natural history of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in the Orient.", "content": "Studies published in the past 10 years suggest that group A streptococcal infections are frequent in the Orient and lead to a high incidence of rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). In the present study, streptococcal infections were found to be more prevalent in Japan and Taiwan, whereas RF and RHD were more common and severe in the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, particularly among the socioeconomically less privileged populations. The pattern of childhood RF varied: Carditis was the most common manifestation, occurring in 57% to 94% of the patients; polyarthritis was generally atypical and less common in the tropics; chorea minor and erythema marginatum were much more common in Japan, less common in Taiwan and rare in the tropics. RF recurrences were quite common and led to the development of new carditis, and deterioration or persistence of the pre-existing heart disease. The 5 year mortality rates differed greatly, ranging from zero to 42%. There was disappearance of the heart murmur in 16.5% to 37.5% of patients. Such apparent recovery was related to adherence to chemoprophylaxis. The major risk factors adversely affecting survival were the severity of carditis, inadequacy of medical service, non-compliance to chemoprophylaxis, RF recurrence, poor socioeconomic status, and high prevalence of group A streptococci. It is concluded that there is no uniform \"Oriental-type\" of natural history of RF and RHD. The natural history varies greatly among countries as is true in other parts of the world.", "contents": "The natural history of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in the Orient. Studies published in the past 10 years suggest that group A streptococcal infections are frequent in the Orient and lead to a high incidence of rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). In the present study, streptococcal infections were found to be more prevalent in Japan and Taiwan, whereas RF and RHD were more common and severe in the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, particularly among the socioeconomically less privileged populations. The pattern of childhood RF varied: Carditis was the most common manifestation, occurring in 57% to 94% of the patients; polyarthritis was generally atypical and less common in the tropics; chorea minor and erythema marginatum were much more common in Japan, less common in Taiwan and rare in the tropics. RF recurrences were quite common and led to the development of new carditis, and deterioration or persistence of the pre-existing heart disease. The 5 year mortality rates differed greatly, ranging from zero to 42%. There was disappearance of the heart murmur in 16.5% to 37.5% of patients. Such apparent recovery was related to adherence to chemoprophylaxis. The major risk factors adversely affecting survival were the severity of carditis, inadequacy of medical service, non-compliance to chemoprophylaxis, RF recurrence, poor socioeconomic status, and high prevalence of group A streptococci. It is concluded that there is no uniform \"Oriental-type\" of natural history of RF and RHD. The natural history varies greatly among countries as is true in other parts of the world.", "PMID": 459093} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13655", "title": "Hemodynamic effects of pentazocine in acute myocardial infarction.", "content": "In 12 patients with acute myocardial infarction the hemodynamic effects of a single intravenous injection of 30 mg of pentazocine were investigated. The administration of pentazocine resulted in no significant hemodynamic changes. In particular, there was no increase in peripheral vascular resistance and no evidence of decreased left ventricular function or respiratory depression. In the occasional patients who demonstrated an elevation of pulmonary arterial pressure, it was probably due to a direct effect of the drug on the pulmonary vasculature.", "contents": "Hemodynamic effects of pentazocine in acute myocardial infarction. In 12 patients with acute myocardial infarction the hemodynamic effects of a single intravenous injection of 30 mg of pentazocine were investigated. The administration of pentazocine resulted in no significant hemodynamic changes. In particular, there was no increase in peripheral vascular resistance and no evidence of decreased left ventricular function or respiratory depression. In the occasional patients who demonstrated an elevation of pulmonary arterial pressure, it was probably due to a direct effect of the drug on the pulmonary vasculature.", "PMID": 459094} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13656", "title": "The effect of propranolol on left ventricular function at rest and during exercise in patients with ischemic heart disease.", "content": "Twelve patients with ischemic heart disease were investigated by right and left heart catheterisation. All patients were studied at rest and during exercise, both before and after administration of beta-blocker propranolol, Inderal (ICI). Left ventricular function decreased after administration of propranolol, but these changes were significant only during exercise. Contractility was depressed after administration of propranolol already at rest. On the other hand, left ventricular filling pressure decreased after administration of propranolol. Our results show the poor reliability of the evaluation of the left ventricular function based solely on the left ventricular filling pressure.", "contents": "The effect of propranolol on left ventricular function at rest and during exercise in patients with ischemic heart disease. Twelve patients with ischemic heart disease were investigated by right and left heart catheterisation. All patients were studied at rest and during exercise, both before and after administration of beta-blocker propranolol, Inderal (ICI). Left ventricular function decreased after administration of propranolol, but these changes were significant only during exercise. Contractility was depressed after administration of propranolol already at rest. On the other hand, left ventricular filling pressure decreased after administration of propranolol. Our results show the poor reliability of the evaluation of the left ventricular function based solely on the left ventricular filling pressure.", "PMID": 459095} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13657", "title": "Electrophysiologic effects of lidocaine in children.", "content": "The effects of intravenous lidocaine on the refractory periods of the atrium, AV node and right ventricular myocardium were studied using His bundle recordings and the extrastimulus technique with and without atrial and ventricular pacing. The drug was administered in an intravenous bolus dose of 1 mg/Kg followed by an infusion of 100 micrograms/Kg/min. The AH, HV intervals and resting sinus cycle length as well as functional and effective refractory periods of atrium, AV node and right ventricle were measured before and 5 min afrer bolus injection of lidocaine. Neither of the refractory periods nor AH and HV intervals changed significantly following administration of lidocaine. The result of this first study in children is in agreement with previous reports of the effects of lidocaine on the cardiac conduction system in adults.", "contents": "Electrophysiologic effects of lidocaine in children. The effects of intravenous lidocaine on the refractory periods of the atrium, AV node and right ventricular myocardium were studied using His bundle recordings and the extrastimulus technique with and without atrial and ventricular pacing. The drug was administered in an intravenous bolus dose of 1 mg/Kg followed by an infusion of 100 micrograms/Kg/min. The AH, HV intervals and resting sinus cycle length as well as functional and effective refractory periods of atrium, AV node and right ventricle were measured before and 5 min afrer bolus injection of lidocaine. Neither of the refractory periods nor AH and HV intervals changed significantly following administration of lidocaine. The result of this first study in children is in agreement with previous reports of the effects of lidocaine on the cardiac conduction system in adults.", "PMID": 459096} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13658", "title": "Echo- and phonocardiographic studies in patients with Lillehei-Kaster aortic valve prostheses.", "content": "Simultaneous echo- and phonocardiographic studies were performed in 17 patients with normally functioning Lillehei-Kaster (LK) tilting disc prosthesis in the aortic position. The LK aortic valve prosthesis was well recorded by echocardiography with a disc excursion of 14 to 25 mm and very fast opening and closing velocities, too rapid for quantitative assessment. On phonocardiography the opening click of the prosthesis was only rarely observed (2 out of 17 cases), while the closing sound was consistently present in all patients, occurring within 5 msec of the point of complete closure of aortic disc prosthesis by echocardiography. Systolic time intervals (STI) measured by combined echo-and phonocardiography were similar to the predicted values in 15 patients who had no evidence of residual cardiac dysfunction. In the remaining 2 patients, one or more components of the STI differed by more than 2 standard deviations from the predicted values, and in these there were associated findings to explain the discrepancies. This study illustrates the echo- and phonocardiographic features of the normally functioning LK aortic valve prosthesis. In addition, precise measurements of the isometric contraction and relaxation periods as well as standard systolic time intervals are possible with these techniques.", "contents": "Echo- and phonocardiographic studies in patients with Lillehei-Kaster aortic valve prostheses. Simultaneous echo- and phonocardiographic studies were performed in 17 patients with normally functioning Lillehei-Kaster (LK) tilting disc prosthesis in the aortic position. The LK aortic valve prosthesis was well recorded by echocardiography with a disc excursion of 14 to 25 mm and very fast opening and closing velocities, too rapid for quantitative assessment. On phonocardiography the opening click of the prosthesis was only rarely observed (2 out of 17 cases), while the closing sound was consistently present in all patients, occurring within 5 msec of the point of complete closure of aortic disc prosthesis by echocardiography. Systolic time intervals (STI) measured by combined echo-and phonocardiography were similar to the predicted values in 15 patients who had no evidence of residual cardiac dysfunction. In the remaining 2 patients, one or more components of the STI differed by more than 2 standard deviations from the predicted values, and in these there were associated findings to explain the discrepancies. This study illustrates the echo- and phonocardiographic features of the normally functioning LK aortic valve prosthesis. In addition, precise measurements of the isometric contraction and relaxation periods as well as standard systolic time intervals are possible with these techniques.", "PMID": 459097} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13659", "title": "Technique of echographic examination of right ventricular wall thickness from the right sternal border.", "content": "Right ventricular wall motion was readily accessible for echocardiographic recording along the right sternal border in 27 pediatric patients (age: 24 hrs--12 yrs). Right ventricular epicardial and endocardial wall motion could be recorded only at the right sternal border in 10 of these patients, emphasizing the need for a new, alternative examination site. Calculated measurements of right ventricular wall thickness recorded from both right and left sternal borders (7 pts) were similar (range of diff.=0--0.6 mm; mean of diff.=0.26 mm). Autopsy confirmation of right ventricular wall thickness was obtained in 2 patients. Epicardial motion could not be identified at the left sternal border in 10 patients. In these patients, right ventricular wall thickness was estimated by measuring from the inner chest wall to the endocardium. These measurements were compared to right ventricular wall thickness obtained from the right sternal border. Wall thickness obtained from the left sternal border was significantly underestimated in the absence of a definite epicardial interface (range of diff.=0.2--2.6 mm; mean of diff.=1.3 mm).", "contents": "Technique of echographic examination of right ventricular wall thickness from the right sternal border. Right ventricular wall motion was readily accessible for echocardiographic recording along the right sternal border in 27 pediatric patients (age: 24 hrs--12 yrs). Right ventricular epicardial and endocardial wall motion could be recorded only at the right sternal border in 10 of these patients, emphasizing the need for a new, alternative examination site. Calculated measurements of right ventricular wall thickness recorded from both right and left sternal borders (7 pts) were similar (range of diff.=0--0.6 mm; mean of diff.=0.26 mm). Autopsy confirmation of right ventricular wall thickness was obtained in 2 patients. Epicardial motion could not be identified at the left sternal border in 10 patients. In these patients, right ventricular wall thickness was estimated by measuring from the inner chest wall to the endocardium. These measurements were compared to right ventricular wall thickness obtained from the right sternal border. Wall thickness obtained from the left sternal border was significantly underestimated in the absence of a definite epicardial interface (range of diff.=0.2--2.6 mm; mean of diff.=1.3 mm).", "PMID": 459098} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13660", "title": "Reflex vasoconstriction to a cold stimulus for non-invasive evaluation of neurovascular function in man.", "content": "The response of limb blood flow to cold stimulus was determined by venous occlusion technique in 30 healthy subjects. The stress was applied by immersing one hand into ice-floating water for 35 sec, and the blood flow was measured serially in the contralateral upper limb. The change of blood flow at the 15th sec of stress was the largest among the intermittent measurements, and decreased by 48+/-8% of the control value. A significant rise in plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase was found in response to the same stress. This simple cold stress test may be used to evaluate the function of the reflex arc involved in reflex vasoconstriction. A significantly diminished vasoconstriction was observed in 12 uremic patients with a concomitantly smaller rise of plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity in the test.", "contents": "Reflex vasoconstriction to a cold stimulus for non-invasive evaluation of neurovascular function in man. The response of limb blood flow to cold stimulus was determined by venous occlusion technique in 30 healthy subjects. The stress was applied by immersing one hand into ice-floating water for 35 sec, and the blood flow was measured serially in the contralateral upper limb. The change of blood flow at the 15th sec of stress was the largest among the intermittent measurements, and decreased by 48+/-8% of the control value. A significant rise in plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase was found in response to the same stress. This simple cold stress test may be used to evaluate the function of the reflex arc involved in reflex vasoconstriction. A significantly diminished vasoconstriction was observed in 12 uremic patients with a concomitantly smaller rise of plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity in the test.", "PMID": 459099} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13661", "title": "The fast Fourier transform in the analysis of the normal phonocardiogram.", "content": "The present study is focused on spectrum analysis as a useful method of processing the PCG in order to obtain the frequency spectral distribution of normal heart sounds. Thirty normal subjects aged from 17 to 34 were studied. PCG was recorded on the fourth intercostal space at the left sternal border using a sound level meter coupled with a standard 6 ml cavity. The microphone had a linear response from 0.2 to 8,000 Hz. The signal was filtered with the standard B network according to the ANSI specifications and was registered on a four track FM tape recorder. A four channel analyzer with a microprocessor for off-line elaborations was used with 10 KHz sampling frequency. The PCG signal was triggered by a QRS detector on the R wave of the simultaneously recorded ECG. Fast Fourier transform was performed employing either a four channel analyzer with a microprocessor, or an A/D converter with a computer. Finally the results of the analysis were statistically elaborated. The described procedures permit to obtain a direct and exact tracing of the acoustic features of the heart, thus representing an attempt to come closer to the standardization and automatic analysis of the phonocardiographic technique.", "contents": "The fast Fourier transform in the analysis of the normal phonocardiogram. The present study is focused on spectrum analysis as a useful method of processing the PCG in order to obtain the frequency spectral distribution of normal heart sounds. Thirty normal subjects aged from 17 to 34 were studied. PCG was recorded on the fourth intercostal space at the left sternal border using a sound level meter coupled with a standard 6 ml cavity. The microphone had a linear response from 0.2 to 8,000 Hz. The signal was filtered with the standard B network according to the ANSI specifications and was registered on a four track FM tape recorder. A four channel analyzer with a microprocessor for off-line elaborations was used with 10 KHz sampling frequency. The PCG signal was triggered by a QRS detector on the R wave of the simultaneously recorded ECG. Fast Fourier transform was performed employing either a four channel analyzer with a microprocessor, or an A/D converter with a computer. Finally the results of the analysis were statistically elaborated. The described procedures permit to obtain a direct and exact tracing of the acoustic features of the heart, thus representing an attempt to come closer to the standardization and automatic analysis of the phonocardiographic technique.", "PMID": 459101} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13662", "title": "Onion, garlic, and experimental atherosclerosis.", "content": "Forty-two healthy male albino rabbits weighing around 1 Kg were divided into 4 groups. Group I (8)- fed on normal stock diet, Group II (8)- fed on stock diet plus cholesterol (0.5 gm in 5 ml of olive oil). Group III (15)- received stock diet plus cholesterol plus garlic (0.25 gm) juice. Group IV (11)- received stock diet plus cholesterol plus onion (2.5 gm) juice. The animals were closely observed and followed for 16 weeks. Approximately every 4 weeks, blood samples were collected for estimation of various parameters (S. cholesterol, S. triglycerides, S. lipoproteins, S. phospolipids, and fibrinolytic activity). At the end of experiment, animals were sacrificed and degree of aortic atherosclerosis was graded (grade 0 to 4) in different groups and compared. Experimental study revealed that both garlic and onion (garlic more than onion) had significant effect in inhibiting the rise in S. cholesterol, S. triglycerides, S. beta lipoproteins, and S. phospolipids and significant effect in enhancing the fibrinolytic activity. The beta: alpha ratio was altered favourably and the ratio was kept close to normal. As regards the degree of aortic atherosclerosis as seen on post mortem, it was significantly less in garlic and onion group when compared with pure cholesterol group.", "contents": "Onion, garlic, and experimental atherosclerosis. Forty-two healthy male albino rabbits weighing around 1 Kg were divided into 4 groups. Group I (8)- fed on normal stock diet, Group II (8)- fed on stock diet plus cholesterol (0.5 gm in 5 ml of olive oil). Group III (15)- received stock diet plus cholesterol plus garlic (0.25 gm) juice. Group IV (11)- received stock diet plus cholesterol plus onion (2.5 gm) juice. The animals were closely observed and followed for 16 weeks. Approximately every 4 weeks, blood samples were collected for estimation of various parameters (S. cholesterol, S. triglycerides, S. lipoproteins, S. phospolipids, and fibrinolytic activity). At the end of experiment, animals were sacrificed and degree of aortic atherosclerosis was graded (grade 0 to 4) in different groups and compared. Experimental study revealed that both garlic and onion (garlic more than onion) had significant effect in inhibiting the rise in S. cholesterol, S. triglycerides, S. beta lipoproteins, and S. phospolipids and significant effect in enhancing the fibrinolytic activity. The beta: alpha ratio was altered favourably and the ratio was kept close to normal. As regards the degree of aortic atherosclerosis as seen on post mortem, it was significantly less in garlic and onion group when compared with pure cholesterol group.", "PMID": 459102} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13663", "title": "Comparison of ejection fraction and segmental circumferential fiber shortening velocity in the anesthetized and conscious canine.", "content": "A chronically and transseptally implanted left atrial catheter was utilized to perform repeated cineangiography in the conscious dog. The advantage of this preparation is that catheter placement does not require a thoracotomy. Left ventricular function was compared in the same pentobarbital-anesthetized and conscious dog. Anesthesia significantly depressed myocardial function as was demonstrated by a decrease in ejection fraction and segmental circumferential fiber shortening velocity (VCF) and an increase in end-diastolic volume. In addition, no difference in Vcf occurred between the base and the apex. Since anesthesia produced regional difference in the degree of depression of VCF, we conclude that anesthesia will produce patterns of ventricular contraction which are variable and unpredictable. Consequently, we recommend the use of the conscious dog and this preparation in order to evaluate myocardial function.", "contents": "Comparison of ejection fraction and segmental circumferential fiber shortening velocity in the anesthetized and conscious canine. A chronically and transseptally implanted left atrial catheter was utilized to perform repeated cineangiography in the conscious dog. The advantage of this preparation is that catheter placement does not require a thoracotomy. Left ventricular function was compared in the same pentobarbital-anesthetized and conscious dog. Anesthesia significantly depressed myocardial function as was demonstrated by a decrease in ejection fraction and segmental circumferential fiber shortening velocity (VCF) and an increase in end-diastolic volume. In addition, no difference in Vcf occurred between the base and the apex. Since anesthesia produced regional difference in the degree of depression of VCF, we conclude that anesthesia will produce patterns of ventricular contraction which are variable and unpredictable. Consequently, we recommend the use of the conscious dog and this preparation in order to evaluate myocardial function.", "PMID": 459103} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13664", "title": "Foreign body in the main pulmonary artery. An unusual complication of Pudenz-shunt.", "content": "A dislodged Pudenz ventriculo-atrial shunt catheter removed from the main pulmonary artery by arteriotomy is reported in a 21-year-old man.", "contents": "Foreign body in the main pulmonary artery. An unusual complication of Pudenz-shunt. A dislodged Pudenz ventriculo-atrial shunt catheter removed from the main pulmonary artery by arteriotomy is reported in a 21-year-old man.", "PMID": 459104} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13665", "title": "Diuretic action of metolazone in dogs.", "content": "Metolazone, the sulfonamide diuretic was investigated to determine the sites of action. We used a radioactive microsphere, clearance and stop-flow method in anesthetized dogs. Urine flow and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium were increased at 5--60 min when metolazone was given intravenously at doses of 0.2--5.0 mg/kg, while total renal blood flow, distribution of cortical renal blood flow and GFR did not change. The urinary excretion rate of sodium to potassium (Na/K) increased from 5.69 +/- 0.82 to 8.07 +/- 0.76 in a dose of 1.0 mg/kg, i.v. Osmolar clearance and free water reabsorption increased almost proportionally, indicating that metolazone has little effect on the medullary portion of the ascending limb of Henle and may have a proximal site of action. In stop-flow experiments, a significantly raised U/PNa/U/Pcreatinine was observed at the dip situated distally to the ascending limb of Henle. These findings indicate that the diuretic action of metolazone may be due to the inhibition of sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron segments, in addition to the absence of modification of the cortical regional blood flow.", "contents": "Diuretic action of metolazone in dogs. Metolazone, the sulfonamide diuretic was investigated to determine the sites of action. We used a radioactive microsphere, clearance and stop-flow method in anesthetized dogs. Urine flow and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium were increased at 5--60 min when metolazone was given intravenously at doses of 0.2--5.0 mg/kg, while total renal blood flow, distribution of cortical renal blood flow and GFR did not change. The urinary excretion rate of sodium to potassium (Na/K) increased from 5.69 +/- 0.82 to 8.07 +/- 0.76 in a dose of 1.0 mg/kg, i.v. Osmolar clearance and free water reabsorption increased almost proportionally, indicating that metolazone has little effect on the medullary portion of the ascending limb of Henle and may have a proximal site of action. In stop-flow experiments, a significantly raised U/PNa/U/Pcreatinine was observed at the dip situated distally to the ascending limb of Henle. These findings indicate that the diuretic action of metolazone may be due to the inhibition of sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron segments, in addition to the absence of modification of the cortical regional blood flow.", "PMID": 459149} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13666", "title": "Effects of vasodilators on microcirculation of the rat cremaster muscle: a microscopic method for screening drugs.", "content": "Effects of vasodilating drugs on microcirculation of the rat cremaster muscle were investigated microscopically. Topical application and intravenous injection of papaverine produced dilatation of arterioles. Cyclandelate applied topically dilated the arterioles to a considerable extent. Topical application of bamethan induced arteriolar dilatation while bamethan given intravenously constricted the arterioles. Kallikrein applied topically induced a slight dilatation of arterioles, and intravenous administration of kallikrein produced an appreciable vasodilatation. Topical administration of bradykinin produced a vasodilatation of arterioles of the rat cremaster muscle. These results indicate that direct action of a drug on the microcirculation can be properly evaluated by the microscopic method in the rat cremater muscle, if the drug is applied topically, in the vicinity of small vessels under study.", "contents": "Effects of vasodilators on microcirculation of the rat cremaster muscle: a microscopic method for screening drugs. Effects of vasodilating drugs on microcirculation of the rat cremaster muscle were investigated microscopically. Topical application and intravenous injection of papaverine produced dilatation of arterioles. Cyclandelate applied topically dilated the arterioles to a considerable extent. Topical application of bamethan induced arteriolar dilatation while bamethan given intravenously constricted the arterioles. Kallikrein applied topically induced a slight dilatation of arterioles, and intravenous administration of kallikrein produced an appreciable vasodilatation. Topical administration of bradykinin produced a vasodilatation of arterioles of the rat cremaster muscle. These results indicate that direct action of a drug on the microcirculation can be properly evaluated by the microscopic method in the rat cremater muscle, if the drug is applied topically, in the vicinity of small vessels under study.", "PMID": 459150} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13667", "title": "Hydrolysis of ester-type drugs by the purified esterase from human intestinal mucosa.", "content": "Esterase from human intestinal mucosa was purified 210 fold by solubilization with Triton X-100, chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, Sephadex G-100 and hydroxylapatite, and isoelectric focusing. The purified esterase showed a single band by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The molecular weight of the purified esterase was estimated to be about 55,000 by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150, and the isoelectric point was 5.02. The purified esterase was strongly inhibited by diethyl p-nitrophenyl phosphate (E-600) and diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP), and was not inhibited by eserine sulfate and p-chloromercuribenzoate. The purified esterase from human intestinal mucosa was found to be one of the carboxylesterases. The purified esterase hydrolyzed ester-type drugs, i.e., aspirin, clofibrate, indanyl carbenicillin and procaine, but did not hydrolyze amide-type drugs and choline-type drugs.", "contents": "Hydrolysis of ester-type drugs by the purified esterase from human intestinal mucosa. Esterase from human intestinal mucosa was purified 210 fold by solubilization with Triton X-100, chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, Sephadex G-100 and hydroxylapatite, and isoelectric focusing. The purified esterase showed a single band by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The molecular weight of the purified esterase was estimated to be about 55,000 by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150, and the isoelectric point was 5.02. The purified esterase was strongly inhibited by diethyl p-nitrophenyl phosphate (E-600) and diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP), and was not inhibited by eserine sulfate and p-chloromercuribenzoate. The purified esterase from human intestinal mucosa was found to be one of the carboxylesterases. The purified esterase hydrolyzed ester-type drugs, i.e., aspirin, clofibrate, indanyl carbenicillin and procaine, but did not hydrolyze amide-type drugs and choline-type drugs.", "PMID": 459153} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13668", "title": "Rhythmic contractions induced by vagotomy in the fundus of rat stomach.", "content": "Continuous rhythmic contractions were observed in longitudinal muscle strips of fundus obtained from the chronically vagotomized rat stomach. These vagotomy-induced rhythmic contractions (VRC) were not blocked either by tetrodotoxin (3 x 10(-6) M) or atropine (3 x 10(-7) M), indicating that the VRC was myogenic in origin. It was also found that the VRC had the following characteristics. 1) The VRC blocked either by 10(-5) M D600 or by Ca2+ deprivation from the medium. 2) On replacement of Na+ with sucrose or of K+ with Na+, the tone of fundus strips was concomitantly elevated with the cessation of the VRC. 3) 10(-5) M ouabain blocked the VRC. 4) The VRC was blocked by cooling. 5) The VRC disappeared under anoxic conditions. Based on these results possible mechanisms of the VRC are discussed in relation to an energy dependent activity of the cell membrane.", "contents": "Rhythmic contractions induced by vagotomy in the fundus of rat stomach. Continuous rhythmic contractions were observed in longitudinal muscle strips of fundus obtained from the chronically vagotomized rat stomach. These vagotomy-induced rhythmic contractions (VRC) were not blocked either by tetrodotoxin (3 x 10(-6) M) or atropine (3 x 10(-7) M), indicating that the VRC was myogenic in origin. It was also found that the VRC had the following characteristics. 1) The VRC blocked either by 10(-5) M D600 or by Ca2+ deprivation from the medium. 2) On replacement of Na+ with sucrose or of K+ with Na+, the tone of fundus strips was concomitantly elevated with the cessation of the VRC. 3) 10(-5) M ouabain blocked the VRC. 4) The VRC was blocked by cooling. 5) The VRC disappeared under anoxic conditions. Based on these results possible mechanisms of the VRC are discussed in relation to an energy dependent activity of the cell membrane.", "PMID": 459154} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13669", "title": "Effects of intraventricularly administered serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine and metaraminol on the reserpine-induced spikes recorded from the medial nucleus trapezoides in rabbits.", "content": "Effects of intraventricularly administered serotonin (5HT), noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA) and metaraminol on the reserpine-induced spikes recorded from the medial nucleus Trapezoides (Trap. m.) in rabbits were investigated. 5HT (30, 50 micrograms) produced marked decreases in the amplitude and discharge rate of the spikes 3 to 5 min after intraventricular administration. NA (30, 50 micrograms) also produced similar effects to those of 5HT, but DA at the same dosage produced no significant changes in the amplitude and discharge rate of spikes. Metaraminol, a metabolite of alpha-methyl-m-tyrosine, produced gradual and long-lasting, potent suppression of spikes. Ninety min later, spikes were completely suppressed, and no recovery was observed within 6 hours after intraventricular administration. These results indicate that NA has a similar suppressing action to that of 5HT on the generation of the reserpine-induced spikes.", "contents": "Effects of intraventricularly administered serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine and metaraminol on the reserpine-induced spikes recorded from the medial nucleus trapezoides in rabbits. Effects of intraventricularly administered serotonin (5HT), noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA) and metaraminol on the reserpine-induced spikes recorded from the medial nucleus Trapezoides (Trap. m.) in rabbits were investigated. 5HT (30, 50 micrograms) produced marked decreases in the amplitude and discharge rate of the spikes 3 to 5 min after intraventricular administration. NA (30, 50 micrograms) also produced similar effects to those of 5HT, but DA at the same dosage produced no significant changes in the amplitude and discharge rate of spikes. Metaraminol, a metabolite of alpha-methyl-m-tyrosine, produced gradual and long-lasting, potent suppression of spikes. Ninety min later, spikes were completely suppressed, and no recovery was observed within 6 hours after intraventricular administration. These results indicate that NA has a similar suppressing action to that of 5HT on the generation of the reserpine-induced spikes.", "PMID": 459155} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13670", "title": "Effects of 2-[4-(2-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridyl)phenyl] propionic acid (Y-9213) on in vivo release of lysosomal enzymes from rat polymorphonuclear leukocytes during phagocytosis of particles.", "content": "Intraperitoneal administration of carrageenin-zymosan suspension into rats induced an increment of the free activity and its ratio of aryl sulfatase in the exudate and such was accompanied by protein exudation and polymorphonuclear leukocyte emigration. Each test solution was orally administered twice, 1 hr before and 2 hr after, or once 2 hr after injection of the irritant. The peritoneal fluid was withdrawn 5 hr after the injection. 2-[4-(2-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridyl)phenyl] propionic acid (Y-9213) and other anti-inflammatory drugs tested inhibited the increment of the ratio of the free activity (aryl sulfatase) in the peritoneal fluid at the same dose which showed anti-inflammatory activities such as prevention of protein exudation. These results suggest that Y-9213 inhibits the phagocytic secretion in vivo of lysosomal constituents from leukocytes.", "contents": "Effects of 2-[4-(2-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridyl)phenyl] propionic acid (Y-9213) on in vivo release of lysosomal enzymes from rat polymorphonuclear leukocytes during phagocytosis of particles. Intraperitoneal administration of carrageenin-zymosan suspension into rats induced an increment of the free activity and its ratio of aryl sulfatase in the exudate and such was accompanied by protein exudation and polymorphonuclear leukocyte emigration. Each test solution was orally administered twice, 1 hr before and 2 hr after, or once 2 hr after injection of the irritant. The peritoneal fluid was withdrawn 5 hr after the injection. 2-[4-(2-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridyl)phenyl] propionic acid (Y-9213) and other anti-inflammatory drugs tested inhibited the increment of the ratio of the free activity (aryl sulfatase) in the peritoneal fluid at the same dose which showed anti-inflammatory activities such as prevention of protein exudation. These results suggest that Y-9213 inhibits the phagocytic secretion in vivo of lysosomal constituents from leukocytes.", "PMID": 459158} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13671", "title": "Ocular anti-inflammatory and systemic immunosuppressive effects of topically applied fluorometholone.", "content": "Anti-inflammatory and systemic immunosuppressive effects of topically applied steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents on experimental immunogenic uveitiis in rabbits were studied. The onset of the immunogenic uveitis induced by a single intravitreous injection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) was significantly correlated with the appearance of anti-BSA antibody in the serum. A significant correlation was also found between the maximum serum level of antibody and the maximum severity of uveitis. Suspensions of fluorometholone, dexamethasone or indomethacin were applied topically twice a day for a month to eyes injected with BSA. Ocular inflammation was suppressed by fluorometholone and dexamethasone, fluorometholone having the greater anti-inflammatory activity. The circulating antibody titer was also suppressed by both these steroids, but conversely fluorometholone had the lower systemic immunosuppressive activity. Indomethacin did not suppress the uveitis or circulating antibody production. The results of these investigations indicate that the anti-inflammatory effect of the steroid fluorometholone surpasses the immunosuppressive effect, unlike usual anti-inflammatory steroids.", "contents": "Ocular anti-inflammatory and systemic immunosuppressive effects of topically applied fluorometholone. Anti-inflammatory and systemic immunosuppressive effects of topically applied steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents on experimental immunogenic uveitiis in rabbits were studied. The onset of the immunogenic uveitis induced by a single intravitreous injection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) was significantly correlated with the appearance of anti-BSA antibody in the serum. A significant correlation was also found between the maximum serum level of antibody and the maximum severity of uveitis. Suspensions of fluorometholone, dexamethasone or indomethacin were applied topically twice a day for a month to eyes injected with BSA. Ocular inflammation was suppressed by fluorometholone and dexamethasone, fluorometholone having the greater anti-inflammatory activity. The circulating antibody titer was also suppressed by both these steroids, but conversely fluorometholone had the lower systemic immunosuppressive activity. Indomethacin did not suppress the uveitis or circulating antibody production. The results of these investigations indicate that the anti-inflammatory effect of the steroid fluorometholone surpasses the immunosuppressive effect, unlike usual anti-inflammatory steroids.", "PMID": 459159} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13672", "title": "[Spectral analytical study on the developmental properties of EEG in children: variability of EEG in normal and mentally retarded children (author's transl)].", "content": "The present study aimed at clarifying the characteristics of variability of the resting arousal EEGs in normal and mentally retarded children. Their ages ranged from 3 to 15 years in 58 normal and from 7 to 18 in 63 retarded. The EEG was recorded monopolarly from six regions of the scalp. The data analysed by a multipurpose digital computer comprised auto-power spectra and a coefficient of variation of power at each frequency. The variability of power at peak within the theta frequency band in both groups of children showed a notably higher value as compared with other frequency bands in all regions. We discussed some of the problems of treating this variability of power as a general characteristic of theta waves or as a developmental one.", "contents": "[Spectral analytical study on the developmental properties of EEG in children: variability of EEG in normal and mentally retarded children (author's transl)]. The present study aimed at clarifying the characteristics of variability of the resting arousal EEGs in normal and mentally retarded children. Their ages ranged from 3 to 15 years in 58 normal and from 7 to 18 in 63 retarded. The EEG was recorded monopolarly from six regions of the scalp. The data analysed by a multipurpose digital computer comprised auto-power spectra and a coefficient of variation of power at each frequency. The variability of power at peak within the theta frequency band in both groups of children showed a notably higher value as compared with other frequency bands in all regions. We discussed some of the problems of treating this variability of power as a general characteristic of theta waves or as a developmental one.", "PMID": 459161} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13673", "title": "His electrocardiographic characterization of terminal arrhythmias of hemorrhagic shock in dogs.", "content": "Pulseless idioventricular rhythm is the agonal arrhythmia identified in three models of hemorrhagic shock used in this study. This arrhythmia is preceded by atrial and then junctional arrest demonstrated by His electrocardiography in all nine dogs studied. Two additional dogs were used as controls. Acid-base and electrolyte changes were not sufficient to cause the progressive failure of conduction system function seen so consistently. Patients receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation who have profound bradycardia without pulses may have been in shock prior to cardiopulmonary arrest.", "contents": "His electrocardiographic characterization of terminal arrhythmias of hemorrhagic shock in dogs. Pulseless idioventricular rhythm is the agonal arrhythmia identified in three models of hemorrhagic shock used in this study. This arrhythmia is preceded by atrial and then junctional arrest demonstrated by His electrocardiography in all nine dogs studied. Two additional dogs were used as controls. Acid-base and electrolyte changes were not sufficient to cause the progressive failure of conduction system function seen so consistently. Patients receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation who have profound bradycardia without pulses may have been in shock prior to cardiopulmonary arrest.", "PMID": 459187} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13674", "title": "CPK-MB isoenzume determinations in blunt chest trauma.", "content": "To identify the most sensitive screening test for cardiac contusions, a series of 35 patients with blunt chest trauma was evaluated with serial electrocardiograms (ECGs)- creatine phosphokinase isoenzymes, and serum enzymes (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, lactic dehydrogenase, and creatine phosphokinase). Twenty of the 35 patients had diagnoses of cardiac contusions by ECG. Three with contusions developed complications. Although isoenzyme elevation was present in most patients sustaining blunt chest trauma, no complications of the injury were seen in patients with elevated enzymes and normal ECGs. The ease of obtaining ECGs and their reliability in identifying patients who will have complications make it the best screening procedure for the diagnosis of cardiac contusions.", "contents": "CPK-MB isoenzume determinations in blunt chest trauma. To identify the most sensitive screening test for cardiac contusions, a series of 35 patients with blunt chest trauma was evaluated with serial electrocardiograms (ECGs)- creatine phosphokinase isoenzymes, and serum enzymes (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, lactic dehydrogenase, and creatine phosphokinase). Twenty of the 35 patients had diagnoses of cardiac contusions by ECG. Three with contusions developed complications. Although isoenzyme elevation was present in most patients sustaining blunt chest trauma, no complications of the injury were seen in patients with elevated enzymes and normal ECGs. The ease of obtaining ECGs and their reliability in identifying patients who will have complications make it the best screening procedure for the diagnosis of cardiac contusions.", "PMID": 459188} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13675", "title": "Extinguishing the flaming burn victim.", "content": "The multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers are unusually efficient in extinguishing many classes of fire: A) ordinary combustible; B) flammable liquids and C) electrical equipment. This exemplary performance of multipurpose extinguishers is associated with minimal toxic effects to humans. Following contact of soft tissue with the multipurpose dry chemical, the tissue exhibits a remarkable ability to resist infection and a normal capacity to heal following injury. This negligible toxicity of the multipurpose dry chemicals makes them safe for extinguishing the flaming clothes of human burn victims.", "contents": "Extinguishing the flaming burn victim. The multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers are unusually efficient in extinguishing many classes of fire: A) ordinary combustible; B) flammable liquids and C) electrical equipment. This exemplary performance of multipurpose extinguishers is associated with minimal toxic effects to humans. Following contact of soft tissue with the multipurpose dry chemical, the tissue exhibits a remarkable ability to resist infection and a normal capacity to heal following injury. This negligible toxicity of the multipurpose dry chemicals makes them safe for extinguishing the flaming clothes of human burn victims.", "PMID": 459189} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13676", "title": "Abdominopelvic injury associated with pelvic fracture.", "content": "A retrospective study of 117 cases of pelvic fracture was undertaken to determine the incidence of associated abdominopelvic injury. Fractures of the pubic rami were found to be most common. Seventeen patients (15%) had significant intra-abdominal or genitourinay injury. The bladder and spleen were injured most often. Clinical evaluation, or peritoneal lavage, gave an impression of abdominopelvic visceral injury in the presence or absence of demonstrable injury. Seventy-three of 84 (87%) patients who had urinalyses in the emergency department had microscopic or gross hematuria. Of these, only those with gross hematuria had significant urologic injury. There were four fatalities.", "contents": "Abdominopelvic injury associated with pelvic fracture. A retrospective study of 117 cases of pelvic fracture was undertaken to determine the incidence of associated abdominopelvic injury. Fractures of the pubic rami were found to be most common. Seventeen patients (15%) had significant intra-abdominal or genitourinay injury. The bladder and spleen were injured most often. Clinical evaluation, or peritoneal lavage, gave an impression of abdominopelvic visceral injury in the presence or absence of demonstrable injury. Seventy-three of 84 (87%) patients who had urinalyses in the emergency department had microscopic or gross hematuria. Of these, only those with gross hematuria had significant urologic injury. There were four fatalities.", "PMID": 459190} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13677", "title": "Peritoneal lavage with low morbidity.", "content": "Peritoneal lavage has proven to be a useful tool for evaluating abdominal trauma. However, morbidity levels associated with the technique have inhibited its wide acceptance. A technique has been developed that avoids the complications associated with use of a standard dialysis trocar or a mini-laparotomy. The technique uses an 18 gauge needle, a wire guide with soft tip and a number 9 French Teflon catheter. The test can be completed in 20 to 30 minutes and has been done in as little as seven minutes. This technique has been used by 51 different physicians in 132 cases with a single avoidable complication which occurred when one of the contraindications was violated.", "contents": "Peritoneal lavage with low morbidity. Peritoneal lavage has proven to be a useful tool for evaluating abdominal trauma. However, morbidity levels associated with the technique have inhibited its wide acceptance. A technique has been developed that avoids the complications associated with use of a standard dialysis trocar or a mini-laparotomy. The technique uses an 18 gauge needle, a wire guide with soft tip and a number 9 French Teflon catheter. The test can be completed in 20 to 30 minutes and has been done in as little as seven minutes. This technique has been used by 51 different physicians in 132 cases with a single avoidable complication which occurred when one of the contraindications was violated.", "PMID": 459191} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13678", "title": "Noninvasive monitoring of vascular compromise in trauma.", "content": "Many types of trauma may lead to vascular compromise unless treated effectively and promptly. In addition to direct trauma to a major vessel are the crushing injuries, fractures, and burn injuries which give rise to an ischemia-edema cycle and subsequent muscle necrosis and tissue loss. Objective adjuncts to clinical impressions, such as isotope clearance muscle blood flow or the ultrasound Doppler flowmeter are generally not suitable for continuous, uninterrupted monitoring of the degree of vascular compromise. A technique that appears promising in this respect is that of photoplethysmography. This technique uses a small LED infrared emitter/detector array. Blood volume changes in an illuminated vascular bed produce variations in the amount of reflected light sensed by the detector, which after appropriate electronic amplification results in pulsatile blood flow (if present) and its change with time being displayed on the monitor. This technique was used with 25 trauma patients with good results, avoiding unnecessary compartmental decompression in some cases. It has proved to be a simple technique that requires little or no training for interpretation, provides continuous monitoring, is noninvasive and atraumatic in nature, is portable for easy set-up, and is relatively inexpensive.", "contents": "Noninvasive monitoring of vascular compromise in trauma. Many types of trauma may lead to vascular compromise unless treated effectively and promptly. In addition to direct trauma to a major vessel are the crushing injuries, fractures, and burn injuries which give rise to an ischemia-edema cycle and subsequent muscle necrosis and tissue loss. Objective adjuncts to clinical impressions, such as isotope clearance muscle blood flow or the ultrasound Doppler flowmeter are generally not suitable for continuous, uninterrupted monitoring of the degree of vascular compromise. A technique that appears promising in this respect is that of photoplethysmography. This technique uses a small LED infrared emitter/detector array. Blood volume changes in an illuminated vascular bed produce variations in the amount of reflected light sensed by the detector, which after appropriate electronic amplification results in pulsatile blood flow (if present) and its change with time being displayed on the monitor. This technique was used with 25 trauma patients with good results, avoiding unnecessary compartmental decompression in some cases. It has proved to be a simple technique that requires little or no training for interpretation, provides continuous monitoring, is noninvasive and atraumatic in nature, is portable for easy set-up, and is relatively inexpensive.", "PMID": 459192} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13679", "title": "Benign intracranial hypertension in pregnancy.", "content": "Benign intracranial hypertension, an unusual case of headaches, was associated with pregnancy in a gravid female with the chief complaint of headache. Symptoms resolved after three days of prednisone therapy. In benign intracranial hypertension, the possibilities of intracranial mass lesions, intracranial infection, obstruction of the cerebral ventricles, and hypertensive encephalopathy are excluded by evaluation with skull films, computerized axial tomography, electroencephalography and lumbar puncture. The only symptom may be headache and the only physical sign, papilledema. Therefore, neurological examination must include visualization of the fundi.", "contents": "Benign intracranial hypertension in pregnancy. Benign intracranial hypertension, an unusual case of headaches, was associated with pregnancy in a gravid female with the chief complaint of headache. Symptoms resolved after three days of prednisone therapy. In benign intracranial hypertension, the possibilities of intracranial mass lesions, intracranial infection, obstruction of the cerebral ventricles, and hypertensive encephalopathy are excluded by evaluation with skull films, computerized axial tomography, electroencephalography and lumbar puncture. The only symptom may be headache and the only physical sign, papilledema. Therefore, neurological examination must include visualization of the fundi.", "PMID": 459193} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13680", "title": "Diagnostic peritoneal lavage.", "content": "A technique for peritoneal lavage which has increased accuracy and eliminated complications is described. A curved incision is made to one side of the umbilicus at the level of the infraumbilical ring extending over the linea alba for 4 cm. The advantages of the site are its avascularity, paucity of peritoneal fat, and adherence of the peritoneum. By placing the incision at the infraumbilical ring, the rectus muscle is avoided. By adhering to the technique described, false lavage results and iatrogenic injuries to abdominal structures have been significantly decreased.", "contents": "Diagnostic peritoneal lavage. A technique for peritoneal lavage which has increased accuracy and eliminated complications is described. A curved incision is made to one side of the umbilicus at the level of the infraumbilical ring extending over the linea alba for 4 cm. The advantages of the site are its avascularity, paucity of peritoneal fat, and adherence of the peritoneum. By placing the incision at the infraumbilical ring, the rectus muscle is avoided. By adhering to the technique described, false lavage results and iatrogenic injuries to abdominal structures have been significantly decreased.", "PMID": 459194} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13681", "title": "Non-candidal infections in children with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.", "content": "Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMCC) is a clinical syndrome characterized by persistent and recurrent Candida albicans infections of the mucous membranes and skin often associated with immunodeficiency. In order to gain insight into the frequency and severity of non-candidal infections in children with CMCC, four patients with CMCC are described in detail and 60 previously reported cases are reviewed. Fifty percent of children with CMCC had significant infections with other fungi, bacteria and viruses. Recurrent bacterial pneumonias and bronchiectasis were a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In addition, there were a large number of infections, in both the lung and other sites, due to opportunistic organisms. Thus the clincial syndrome of CMCC includes not only mucocutaneous candidiasis, endocrine failure and autoimmune phenomena, but patients with CMCC also show a remarkable susceptibility to non-candidal infections. These non-candidal infections represent a serious cause of morbidity for patients with CMCC.", "contents": "Non-candidal infections in children with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMCC) is a clinical syndrome characterized by persistent and recurrent Candida albicans infections of the mucous membranes and skin often associated with immunodeficiency. In order to gain insight into the frequency and severity of non-candidal infections in children with CMCC, four patients with CMCC are described in detail and 60 previously reported cases are reviewed. Fifty percent of children with CMCC had significant infections with other fungi, bacteria and viruses. Recurrent bacterial pneumonias and bronchiectasis were a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In addition, there were a large number of infections, in both the lung and other sites, due to opportunistic organisms. Thus the clincial syndrome of CMCC includes not only mucocutaneous candidiasis, endocrine failure and autoimmune phenomena, but patients with CMCC also show a remarkable susceptibility to non-candidal infections. These non-candidal infections represent a serious cause of morbidity for patients with CMCC.", "PMID": 459201} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13682", "title": "Iatrogenically induced hypertensive encephalopathy.", "content": "A 49-year-old female with a 30-year history of untreated essential hypertension was noted to have a blood pressure of 290/175 mmHg during evaluation for elective gynecological surgery. At the time of hospitalization she complained chiefly of chronic frontal headaches. Physical examination revealed grade two hypertensive retinopathy, and laboratory studies showed left ventricular hypertrophy. Over the next 12 days the patient's blood pressure was successfully lowered to 178/106 mmHg. During revision of her therapy her mean blood pressure rose to 244/144 mm Hg (88% of the admission level) over 36 hours and she developed hypertensive encephalopathy with papilledema, headaches and projectile vomiting. Concomitant resolution of neurological symptoms and control of blood pressure occurred over the next nine days. The course of this patient suggests that autoregulation of cerebral blood flow may be acutely reversed and that the occurrence of hypertensive encephalopathy depends not only on the magnitude and duration of the blood pressure elevation but, more important, on the rate at which that blood pressure is attained.", "contents": "Iatrogenically induced hypertensive encephalopathy. A 49-year-old female with a 30-year history of untreated essential hypertension was noted to have a blood pressure of 290/175 mmHg during evaluation for elective gynecological surgery. At the time of hospitalization she complained chiefly of chronic frontal headaches. Physical examination revealed grade two hypertensive retinopathy, and laboratory studies showed left ventricular hypertrophy. Over the next 12 days the patient's blood pressure was successfully lowered to 178/106 mmHg. During revision of her therapy her mean blood pressure rose to 244/144 mm Hg (88% of the admission level) over 36 hours and she developed hypertensive encephalopathy with papilledema, headaches and projectile vomiting. Concomitant resolution of neurological symptoms and control of blood pressure occurred over the next nine days. The course of this patient suggests that autoregulation of cerebral blood flow may be acutely reversed and that the occurrence of hypertensive encephalopathy depends not only on the magnitude and duration of the blood pressure elevation but, more important, on the rate at which that blood pressure is attained.", "PMID": 459203} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13683", "title": "\"Nature's soft nurse\": a sleep-promoting factor isolated from brain.", "content": "A sleep promoting factor has been extracted and purified from cerebrospinal fluid of sleep-deprived goats, from whole brains of sleep-deprived rabbits and from brainstems of slaughterhouse cattle. Intraventricular infusion of the purified material into rats, cats, rabbits or squirrel monkeys induces excess slow-wave sleep in the recipients for several hours following the infusion. The excess sleep appears similar to the deep slow-wave sleep which normally follows sleep deprivation; it is characterized by EEG slow waves of greater than normal amplitude and an increase in both the number and duration of sleep episodes. The sleep factor appears to be a small peptide of molecular weight 350--500 daltons and the effective dose is of the order of a few picomols per gram brain. A similar, perhaps identical, factor is present in human urine.", "contents": "\"Nature's soft nurse\": a sleep-promoting factor isolated from brain. A sleep promoting factor has been extracted and purified from cerebrospinal fluid of sleep-deprived goats, from whole brains of sleep-deprived rabbits and from brainstems of slaughterhouse cattle. Intraventricular infusion of the purified material into rats, cats, rabbits or squirrel monkeys induces excess slow-wave sleep in the recipients for several hours following the infusion. The excess sleep appears similar to the deep slow-wave sleep which normally follows sleep deprivation; it is characterized by EEG slow waves of greater than normal amplitude and an increase in both the number and duration of sleep episodes. The sleep factor appears to be a small peptide of molecular weight 350--500 daltons and the effective dose is of the order of a few picomols per gram brain. A similar, perhaps identical, factor is present in human urine.", "PMID": 459204} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13684", "title": "[Various mechanisms of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism in myocardial infarct].", "content": "A group of 112 patients with acute myocardial infarction was studied. Methods for determining the content of immunoreactive insulin, uric acid, triglycerides, and sugar in blood on a fasting stomach and under conditions of carbohydrate load in dynamics were used. The data obtained show that patients, mainly those with uncomplicated myocardial infarction, are marked by relative insulin insufficiency as well as by a high level of triglycerides and uric acid in the acute period of the disease. The causal relationship between hyperuricemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and carbohydrate metabolism disorders is discussed.", "contents": "[Various mechanisms of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism in myocardial infarct]. A group of 112 patients with acute myocardial infarction was studied. Methods for determining the content of immunoreactive insulin, uric acid, triglycerides, and sugar in blood on a fasting stomach and under conditions of carbohydrate load in dynamics were used. The data obtained show that patients, mainly those with uncomplicated myocardial infarction, are marked by relative insulin insufficiency as well as by a high level of triglycerides and uric acid in the acute period of the disease. The causal relationship between hyperuricemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and carbohydrate metabolism disorders is discussed.", "PMID": 459206} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13685", "title": "[Catecholamines and 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in the blood of patients with myocardial infarct in the surgical and internal disease clinics].", "content": "The blood of 131 patients with myocardial infarction and of 131 patients who underwent operation and had no necrosis of the cardiac muscle was tested for the content of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-oxycorticosteroids (17-OCS). In 20 patients with postoperative myocardial infarction the level of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-OCS rose during the operation and before and after the development of the disease. In patients with myocardial infarction the level of catecholamines was found to be increased in the first 10 days and the level of 17-OCS only in the first 3 days of the disease. In patients who underwent operation but had no myocardial infarction, the content of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-OCS increased before and during the operation and on the 1st postoperative day. The authors believe that the increase in the level of catecholamines and 17-OCS may be one of the mechanisms of the development of postoperative myocardial infarction.", "contents": "[Catecholamines and 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in the blood of patients with myocardial infarct in the surgical and internal disease clinics]. The blood of 131 patients with myocardial infarction and of 131 patients who underwent operation and had no necrosis of the cardiac muscle was tested for the content of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-oxycorticosteroids (17-OCS). In 20 patients with postoperative myocardial infarction the level of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-OCS rose during the operation and before and after the development of the disease. In patients with myocardial infarction the level of catecholamines was found to be increased in the first 10 days and the level of 17-OCS only in the first 3 days of the disease. In patients who underwent operation but had no myocardial infarction, the content of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and 17-OCS increased before and during the operation and on the 1st postoperative day. The authors believe that the increase in the level of catecholamines and 17-OCS may be one of the mechanisms of the development of postoperative myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 459207} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13686", "title": "[Prognosis of the outcome of recurrent myocardial infarct].", "content": "The authors developed a method for prognosticating the outcome of recurrent myocardial infarction with the use of the Bayes formula. The diagnosis of recurrent myocardial infarction was made when necroses recurred in the myocardium during in-patient treatment for acute myocardial infarction. The prognosis was determined 72 hours after the recurrence of the necrosis. The prognostic signs characterized predominantly the degree of congestive circulatory failure and the frequency of disorders of cardiac rhythm in the acute period of myocardial infarction and recurrent myocardial infarction as well as in the interval betwen them (10 signs with informativeness of 0.117 to 0.05 were used.) The prognosis was erroneous in 8 of 70 patients who recovered from the disease and in 1 of 17 who died.", "contents": "[Prognosis of the outcome of recurrent myocardial infarct]. The authors developed a method for prognosticating the outcome of recurrent myocardial infarction with the use of the Bayes formula. The diagnosis of recurrent myocardial infarction was made when necroses recurred in the myocardium during in-patient treatment for acute myocardial infarction. The prognosis was determined 72 hours after the recurrence of the necrosis. The prognostic signs characterized predominantly the degree of congestive circulatory failure and the frequency of disorders of cardiac rhythm in the acute period of myocardial infarction and recurrent myocardial infarction as well as in the interval betwen them (10 signs with informativeness of 0.117 to 0.05 were used.) The prognosis was erroneous in 8 of 70 patients who recovered from the disease and in 1 of 17 who died.", "PMID": 459208} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13687", "title": "[Dopamine in the treatment of coronary shock].", "content": "The results of the use of a potent inotropic agent dopamine in the treatment of 12 patients with acute myocardial infarction in a state of severe shock are discussed. It is shown that dopamine may prove effective in some patients because its administration by intravenous drip is followed by an increase and stabilization of arterial pressure and mitigation of the manifestations of cardiac insufficiency. In the small group of patients discussed, three recovered from severe shock. From analysis of the material with authors assume that the clinical effect of dopamine is linked with its property of causing a favourable effect on organ blood circulation.", "contents": "[Dopamine in the treatment of coronary shock]. The results of the use of a potent inotropic agent dopamine in the treatment of 12 patients with acute myocardial infarction in a state of severe shock are discussed. It is shown that dopamine may prove effective in some patients because its administration by intravenous drip is followed by an increase and stabilization of arterial pressure and mitigation of the manifestations of cardiac insufficiency. In the small group of patients discussed, three recovered from severe shock. From analysis of the material with authors assume that the clinical effect of dopamine is linked with its property of causing a favourable effect on organ blood circulation.", "PMID": 459209} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13688", "title": "[Characteristics of clinical course of myocardial infarct in young persons under conditions of an industrial city in the Far North].", "content": "Study of the clinical course of myocardial infarction, the mortality of ischemic heart disease and its morphological manifestations showed the \"rejuvenation\" of myocardial infarction and an increase in its incidence depending on the duration of residence under conditions of Norilsk. The pecularities of the clinical course of myocardial infarction are determined and attention is drawn to the essential pathogenetic role of arterial hypertension in the formation and manifestation of ischemic heart disease in young residents of Norilsk.", "contents": "[Characteristics of clinical course of myocardial infarct in young persons under conditions of an industrial city in the Far North]. Study of the clinical course of myocardial infarction, the mortality of ischemic heart disease and its morphological manifestations showed the \"rejuvenation\" of myocardial infarction and an increase in its incidence depending on the duration of residence under conditions of Norilsk. The pecularities of the clinical course of myocardial infarction are determined and attention is drawn to the essential pathogenetic role of arterial hypertension in the formation and manifestation of ischemic heart disease in young residents of Norilsk.", "PMID": 459210} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13689", "title": "[X-ray diagnosis of cardiac insufficiency in acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "Practical medicine needs a simple method for detecting the presence and severity of left ventricular insufficiency in acute myocardial infarction. Radiography of the lungs may help in solving this problem. Our idea of the X-ray picture of the lungs in pulmonary circulation congestion is now almost complete. The X-ray picture is determined by the degree of left ventricular insufficiency. The results of lung radiography of 225 patients admitted to the intensive care department for acute myocardial infarction are discussed. Alveolar pulmonary edema was diagnosed in 22.7%, interstitial pulmonary edema in 42.7%, pulmonary plethora in 27%, and mild abnormalities in 7.6% of cases. Comparison of the findings of clinical and X-ray examination in 111 patients showed that severe disorders of pulmonary circulation are detected by the X-ray method four times more frequently.", "contents": "[X-ray diagnosis of cardiac insufficiency in acute myocardial infarct]. Practical medicine needs a simple method for detecting the presence and severity of left ventricular insufficiency in acute myocardial infarction. Radiography of the lungs may help in solving this problem. Our idea of the X-ray picture of the lungs in pulmonary circulation congestion is now almost complete. The X-ray picture is determined by the degree of left ventricular insufficiency. The results of lung radiography of 225 patients admitted to the intensive care department for acute myocardial infarction are discussed. Alveolar pulmonary edema was diagnosed in 22.7%, interstitial pulmonary edema in 42.7%, pulmonary plethora in 27%, and mild abnormalities in 7.6% of cases. Comparison of the findings of clinical and X-ray examination in 111 patients showed that severe disorders of pulmonary circulation are detected by the X-ray method four times more frequently.", "PMID": 459211} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13690", "title": "[Disorders of lipid metabolism in sudden death from ischemic heart disease].", "content": "Type IV hyperlipoproteinemia and sharp increase in the concentration of free fatty acids in blood were revealed in most individuals who had died suddenly of ischemic heart disease. Beside increased lipolytic activity of the myocardium, accumulation of free fatty acids and triglycerides in the muscle tissue of the heart was revealed. The authors presume that the increase of the concentration of free fatty acids and tryglycerides, just as of their source in the affected myocardium, stimulates hypoxia and promotes electrical instability of the heart and sudden death.", "contents": "[Disorders of lipid metabolism in sudden death from ischemic heart disease]. Type IV hyperlipoproteinemia and sharp increase in the concentration of free fatty acids in blood were revealed in most individuals who had died suddenly of ischemic heart disease. Beside increased lipolytic activity of the myocardium, accumulation of free fatty acids and triglycerides in the muscle tissue of the heart was revealed. The authors presume that the increase of the concentration of free fatty acids and tryglycerides, just as of their source in the affected myocardium, stimulates hypoxia and promotes electrical instability of the heart and sudden death.", "PMID": 459212} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13691", "title": "[Tolerance to physical exertion after myocardial infarct as a method of evaluation of coronary circulation and cardiac function].", "content": "Twenty healthy individuals and 61 persons who had suffered from myocardial infarction 3 to 18 months previously were examined. They were all males under the age of 50. Tolerance of healthy persons to physical load on a treadmill (according to a standard program) was 3.6 steps of the treadmill test with maximum pulse rate of 166 +/- 2 per minute. The tolerance to load of persons who had a history of myocardial infarction was much lower and varied mainly with the severity of coronary insufficiency. An inadequate reaction of the cardiovascular system to the load was revealed in most of them.", "contents": "[Tolerance to physical exertion after myocardial infarct as a method of evaluation of coronary circulation and cardiac function]. Twenty healthy individuals and 61 persons who had suffered from myocardial infarction 3 to 18 months previously were examined. They were all males under the age of 50. Tolerance of healthy persons to physical load on a treadmill (according to a standard program) was 3.6 steps of the treadmill test with maximum pulse rate of 166 +/- 2 per minute. The tolerance to load of persons who had a history of myocardial infarction was much lower and varied mainly with the severity of coronary insufficiency. An inadequate reaction of the cardiovascular system to the load was revealed in most of them.", "PMID": 459214} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13692", "title": "[Word association test in myocardial infarct].", "content": "The distinguishing feature of associative reactions of patients with myocardial infarction is the marked predominance of egocentric response and the lesser variance of the reactions to critical verbal stimuli. As compared to patients with myocardial infarction and normal psychic condition and to healthy individuals, patients with psychopathological changes due to myocardial infarction gave disordered associative answers to emotionally meaningful verbal stimuli significantly more frequently and with a more marked affective coloration. These signs may serve in different diagnosis in appraising the psychic status of patients with myocardial infarction.", "contents": "[Word association test in myocardial infarct]. The distinguishing feature of associative reactions of patients with myocardial infarction is the marked predominance of egocentric response and the lesser variance of the reactions to critical verbal stimuli. As compared to patients with myocardial infarction and normal psychic condition and to healthy individuals, patients with psychopathological changes due to myocardial infarction gave disordered associative answers to emotionally meaningful verbal stimuli significantly more frequently and with a more marked affective coloration. These signs may serve in different diagnosis in appraising the psychic status of patients with myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 459215} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13693", "title": "[Electrophysiologic effect of ethmosine on the dog's myocardium].", "content": "The electrophysiologic effects of ethmozin on canine myocardium were studied in anesthetized open-chest animals and in superfused Purkinje fibers. On selective injection into the sinus node artery and the posterior septal artery the drug caused no changes in the sinus node length and atrioventricular conduction, respectively. Intravenous infusion of 4 mg/kg ethmozin led to an increase of right and left ventricular diastolic excitability threshold and refractory period. Intravenous administration of 3--5 mg/kg ethmozin caused marked increase in conduction delay in which the ischemic zone of the left ventricle during acute coronary artery occlusion, which was associated with ventricular fibrillation in 50% of the dogs. In vitro, 1 x 10(-6) g/ml ethmozin shortened the Purkinje fibers' action potential duration whereas a dose of 1 x 10(-5) g/ml reduced the rate of phase 0 rise and slightly reduced the action potential amplitude. Ethmozin in a dose of 1 x 10(-7) g/ml increased transiently the isometric developed tension of false-tendon preparations. Higher concentrations caused marked depression of contractility. These observations suggest depression of the fast current by ethmozin. However, further studies are needed to elucidate its effect on action potential duration and false-tendor contractility.", "contents": "[Electrophysiologic effect of ethmosine on the dog's myocardium]. The electrophysiologic effects of ethmozin on canine myocardium were studied in anesthetized open-chest animals and in superfused Purkinje fibers. On selective injection into the sinus node artery and the posterior septal artery the drug caused no changes in the sinus node length and atrioventricular conduction, respectively. Intravenous infusion of 4 mg/kg ethmozin led to an increase of right and left ventricular diastolic excitability threshold and refractory period. Intravenous administration of 3--5 mg/kg ethmozin caused marked increase in conduction delay in which the ischemic zone of the left ventricle during acute coronary artery occlusion, which was associated with ventricular fibrillation in 50% of the dogs. In vitro, 1 x 10(-6) g/ml ethmozin shortened the Purkinje fibers' action potential duration whereas a dose of 1 x 10(-5) g/ml reduced the rate of phase 0 rise and slightly reduced the action potential amplitude. Ethmozin in a dose of 1 x 10(-7) g/ml increased transiently the isometric developed tension of false-tendon preparations. Higher concentrations caused marked depression of contractility. These observations suggest depression of the fast current by ethmozin. However, further studies are needed to elucidate its effect on action potential duration and false-tendor contractility.", "PMID": 459216} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13694", "title": "[Various mechanisms of cardiogenic shock under experimental conditions].", "content": "Study of the mechanisms of compensation derangement in cardiogenic shock in 70 anesthetized and nonanesthetized dogs irrespective of the type of its course showed that extracardiac shifts are of essential importance. In \"fulgurating\" shock, marked cardiac disorders may be aggravated by stimuli induced by hyperactive humoral and vascular (peripheral) reactions. In cardiogenic shock of a longer duration, the extracardiac mechanisms of decompensation are usually manifested by disorders of peripheral circulation associated with increasing hyporeactivity. With timely control the character of decompensation in cardiogenic shock may be prognosticated, which predetermines the principles of rational, pathogenetic therapy.", "contents": "[Various mechanisms of cardiogenic shock under experimental conditions]. Study of the mechanisms of compensation derangement in cardiogenic shock in 70 anesthetized and nonanesthetized dogs irrespective of the type of its course showed that extracardiac shifts are of essential importance. In \"fulgurating\" shock, marked cardiac disorders may be aggravated by stimuli induced by hyperactive humoral and vascular (peripheral) reactions. In cardiogenic shock of a longer duration, the extracardiac mechanisms of decompensation are usually manifested by disorders of peripheral circulation associated with increasing hyporeactivity. With timely control the character of decompensation in cardiogenic shock may be prognosticated, which predetermines the principles of rational, pathogenetic therapy.", "PMID": 459217} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13695", "title": "[Fluorescence of \"intact\" human myocardium in myocardial infarct].", "content": "Fluorescence analysis was used in comparison with other methods to study the morphologic-functional changes in the intact parts of the myocardium in 48 persons who had died of infarction and acute coronary insufficiency. The irregular intensity of primary and secondary cardiomyocyte fluorescence, the diversity of fluorescence, and the character of its colour and dynamics of its replacement are manifested in the earliest stages of ischemia. Quantitative measurements reveal diminution of primary fluorescence intensity at the onset of the disease and its gradual increase eventually.", "contents": "[Fluorescence of \"intact\" human myocardium in myocardial infarct]. Fluorescence analysis was used in comparison with other methods to study the morphologic-functional changes in the intact parts of the myocardium in 48 persons who had died of infarction and acute coronary insufficiency. The irregular intensity of primary and secondary cardiomyocyte fluorescence, the diversity of fluorescence, and the character of its colour and dynamics of its replacement are manifested in the earliest stages of ischemia. Quantitative measurements reveal diminution of primary fluorescence intensity at the onset of the disease and its gradual increase eventually.", "PMID": 459218} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13696", "title": "[Informative value of morphological changes in the adrenal gland in myocardial infarct].", "content": "Gradual growth of disorder in the structural organization of the adrenal gland in myocardial infarction on the background of hypertension is shown on the grounds of an integral assessment by means of the information theory (entropy, relative entropy, and coefficient of information redundancy). The mass of the adrenals in 3 patients proved to be larger than that in practically healthy individuals of the same age. This was due to an increase in the mass of the cortex at the cost of the hypertrophied zona fasciculata. With an increase in the duration of myocardial infarction, the mass of the zona fasciculata, the cortex, and the whole adrenal became less than at the early periods, while the mass of the medullary substance hardly changed. The information characteristics is an objective integral test which demonstrates the degree of the growth of morphollogic and functional disorganization in the organ involved in a pathologic process.", "contents": "[Informative value of morphological changes in the adrenal gland in myocardial infarct]. Gradual growth of disorder in the structural organization of the adrenal gland in myocardial infarction on the background of hypertension is shown on the grounds of an integral assessment by means of the information theory (entropy, relative entropy, and coefficient of information redundancy). The mass of the adrenals in 3 patients proved to be larger than that in practically healthy individuals of the same age. This was due to an increase in the mass of the cortex at the cost of the hypertrophied zona fasciculata. With an increase in the duration of myocardial infarction, the mass of the zona fasciculata, the cortex, and the whole adrenal became less than at the early periods, while the mass of the medullary substance hardly changed. The information characteristics is an objective integral test which demonstrates the degree of the growth of morphollogic and functional disorganization in the organ involved in a pathologic process.", "PMID": 459219} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13697", "title": "[Various problems of diagnosis of the pre-infarct state].", "content": "The clinical course of preinfarction states was studied in 246 in-patients. The informativeness of 128 signs of preinfarction state was checked and the most informative ones were used to compile a diagnostic-tactical algorithm for the recognition of preinfarction states and a prognostic algorithm for prognosticating the development of myocardial infarction.", "contents": "[Various problems of diagnosis of the pre-infarct state]. The clinical course of preinfarction states was studied in 246 in-patients. The informativeness of 128 signs of preinfarction state was checked and the most informative ones were used to compile a diagnostic-tactical algorithm for the recognition of preinfarction states and a prognostic algorithm for prognosticating the development of myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 459220} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13698", "title": "[Analysis of ultrastructural myocardial changes in the pathogenesis of post-resuscitation circulatory insufficiency].", "content": "The article deals with the electron-microscopic characteristics of morphofunctional changes in the myocardium of dogs resuscitated by means of donor extracorporeal circulation after 13--15 minutes of clinical death caused by an electrical trauma. Damage to the energy and contractile apparatus of the myocytes and structures of the microcirculatory channel was revealed in different postresuscitation periods (in 1, 4--5, 9 hours and in 3 days). The revealed morphofunctional changes were marked by phases. Previous study of changes in the main parameters of hemodynamics in the same animals showed that the hemodynamic shifts occurred in phases; sharp hemodynamic disorders were determined 4 to 5 hours after life had been restored. The authors conclude that the damage to the intracardiac mechanisms responsible for the pump activity of the heart plays an essential role in the genesis of postresuscitation circulatory insufficiency.", "contents": "[Analysis of ultrastructural myocardial changes in the pathogenesis of post-resuscitation circulatory insufficiency]. The article deals with the electron-microscopic characteristics of morphofunctional changes in the myocardium of dogs resuscitated by means of donor extracorporeal circulation after 13--15 minutes of clinical death caused by an electrical trauma. Damage to the energy and contractile apparatus of the myocytes and structures of the microcirculatory channel was revealed in different postresuscitation periods (in 1, 4--5, 9 hours and in 3 days). The revealed morphofunctional changes were marked by phases. Previous study of changes in the main parameters of hemodynamics in the same animals showed that the hemodynamic shifts occurred in phases; sharp hemodynamic disorders were determined 4 to 5 hours after life had been restored. The authors conclude that the damage to the intracardiac mechanisms responsible for the pump activity of the heart plays an essential role in the genesis of postresuscitation circulatory insufficiency.", "PMID": 459221} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13699", "title": "[Differential diagnosis of myocarditis from a number of cardiovascular system diseases].", "content": "The work is based on the analysis of 206 patients with myocarditis of whom 168 had infectious allergic myocarditis and 38 had idiopathic myocarditis. A wide variety of clinical laboratory and instrumental methods of examination was used and intravital puncture biopsy of the myocardium was conducted. The article discusses the criteria of differential diagnosis which make it possible to distinguish the form of myocarditis from a large group of cardiovascular diseases following a similar course, i.e. primary rheumatic carditis, ischemic heart disease, valvular diseases, pericarditis and others.", "contents": "[Differential diagnosis of myocarditis from a number of cardiovascular system diseases]. The work is based on the analysis of 206 patients with myocarditis of whom 168 had infectious allergic myocarditis and 38 had idiopathic myocarditis. A wide variety of clinical laboratory and instrumental methods of examination was used and intravital puncture biopsy of the myocardium was conducted. The article discusses the criteria of differential diagnosis which make it possible to distinguish the form of myocarditis from a large group of cardiovascular diseases following a similar course, i.e. primary rheumatic carditis, ischemic heart disease, valvular diseases, pericarditis and others.", "PMID": 459225} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13700", "title": "[Clinical morphological characteristics of a heart lesion in drug allergy].", "content": "Observation of 40 patients with drug myocarditis developing in the presence of acute manifestations of drug allergy, and morphological examination of the myocardium of 15 patients who had died of different manifestations of allergy and drug myocarditis show that drug myocarditis develops quite often in acute manifestations of allergy. This is confirmed by the clinical symptoms, the electrocardiographic findings and the results of immunological study with the use of the leukocyte migration inhibition test with the cardiac antigen. In contrast to persons of the control groups, patients with drug myocarditis showed positive results beginning with the 4th-5th day of the development of the pathological process in the myocardium. The migration index was 40.6% on the average (normal value 80%). The morphological findings indicated the development of delayed and immediate allergic processes in the heart manifested by reaction of the myocardiocytes, stroma and vessels. The degree of severity and character of the morphological changes corresponded to the clinical picture of myocarditis.", "contents": "[Clinical morphological characteristics of a heart lesion in drug allergy]. Observation of 40 patients with drug myocarditis developing in the presence of acute manifestations of drug allergy, and morphological examination of the myocardium of 15 patients who had died of different manifestations of allergy and drug myocarditis show that drug myocarditis develops quite often in acute manifestations of allergy. This is confirmed by the clinical symptoms, the electrocardiographic findings and the results of immunological study with the use of the leukocyte migration inhibition test with the cardiac antigen. In contrast to persons of the control groups, patients with drug myocarditis showed positive results beginning with the 4th-5th day of the development of the pathological process in the myocardium. The migration index was 40.6% on the average (normal value 80%). The morphological findings indicated the development of delayed and immediate allergic processes in the heart manifested by reaction of the myocardiocytes, stroma and vessels. The degree of severity and character of the morphological changes corresponded to the clinical picture of myocarditis.", "PMID": 459226} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13701", "title": "[Use of the bicycle ergometric test in the differential diagnosis of climacteric cardiopathy].", "content": "Bicycle ergometry on the \"Elema\" electrical bicycle ergometer was conducted on 6, patients of climacteric age (41 to 55 years) with pain in the region of the heart and ECG changes. The method made it possible to confirm the diagnosis of climacteric cardiopathy in 39 and to reveal climacteric cardiopathy and concurrent ischemic heart disease in 23 patients. It was noted that physical load had a favourable effect on processes of repolarization in the myocardium of patients with climacteric cardiopathy.", "contents": "[Use of the bicycle ergometric test in the differential diagnosis of climacteric cardiopathy]. Bicycle ergometry on the \"Elema\" electrical bicycle ergometer was conducted on 6, patients of climacteric age (41 to 55 years) with pain in the region of the heart and ECG changes. The method made it possible to confirm the diagnosis of climacteric cardiopathy in 39 and to reveal climacteric cardiopathy and concurrent ischemic heart disease in 23 patients. It was noted that physical load had a favourable effect on processes of repolarization in the myocardium of patients with climacteric cardiopathy.", "PMID": 459227} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13702", "title": "[Disorders of myocardial contractile capacity in patients with an interatrial septal defect complicated by bacterial endocarditis].", "content": "After performing 242 operations on patients with secondary atrial septal defects under conditions of moderate hypothermia, the authors studied the contractile capacity of the myocardium by means of long-term catheterization of the heart chambers in 56 patients. In 35 patients of this group intravital biopsy of the right ventricle was carried out. The bioptic material was subject to light and electron microscopy and histochemical examination. Considerable changes in intracardiac hemodynamics were revealed in patients with bacterial endocarditis. In such cases the diastole changes most sharply: the phase of isometric relaxation was prolonged, and there was a sharp rise in the maximum rate of intraventricular pressure decrease and in the relaxation index, which indicated to disorders of metabolic processes in the myocardium, conducive to the manifestation of myocardial insufficiency.", "contents": "[Disorders of myocardial contractile capacity in patients with an interatrial septal defect complicated by bacterial endocarditis]. After performing 242 operations on patients with secondary atrial septal defects under conditions of moderate hypothermia, the authors studied the contractile capacity of the myocardium by means of long-term catheterization of the heart chambers in 56 patients. In 35 patients of this group intravital biopsy of the right ventricle was carried out. The bioptic material was subject to light and electron microscopy and histochemical examination. Considerable changes in intracardiac hemodynamics were revealed in patients with bacterial endocarditis. In such cases the diastole changes most sharply: the phase of isometric relaxation was prolonged, and there was a sharp rise in the maximum rate of intraventricular pressure decrease and in the relaxation index, which indicated to disorders of metabolic processes in the myocardium, conducive to the manifestation of myocardial insufficiency.", "PMID": 459228} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13703", "title": "[Mitral valve prolapse syndrome in athletes].", "content": "The syndrome of mitral valve prolapse was diagnosed by means of echocardiography in 11 of 28 top-class athletes with functional systolic murmurs and in 4 of 16 athletes examined irrespective of the physical findings and complaints. The echocardiographic manifestations of the prolapse consisted in delayed systolic flexion of the posterior cusp (3 cases), early systolic prolapse of the posterior cusp (4) and holosystolic prolapse of both cusps (8). It is concluded that the syndrome of mitral valve prolapse occurs in athletes far more often than generally supposed and may be the cause of systolic murmurs, and the development of myocardial dystrophy due to chronic physical overstrain and disorders of cardiac rhythm.", "contents": "[Mitral valve prolapse syndrome in athletes]. The syndrome of mitral valve prolapse was diagnosed by means of echocardiography in 11 of 28 top-class athletes with functional systolic murmurs and in 4 of 16 athletes examined irrespective of the physical findings and complaints. The echocardiographic manifestations of the prolapse consisted in delayed systolic flexion of the posterior cusp (3 cases), early systolic prolapse of the posterior cusp (4) and holosystolic prolapse of both cusps (8). It is concluded that the syndrome of mitral valve prolapse occurs in athletes far more often than generally supposed and may be the cause of systolic murmurs, and the development of myocardial dystrophy due to chronic physical overstrain and disorders of cardiac rhythm.", "PMID": 459229} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13704", "title": "[Plasma prostaglandin reaction to furosemide in healthy persons and in hypertension patients consuming salt in an excessive amount].", "content": "The content of prostaglandins A, E, and F in healthy individuals and in persons with hypertensive disease who had taken salt in excess throughout life was studied by the radioimmune method. The reaction of blood prostaglandins to intravenous infusion of 40 mg of furosemid was watched. It was found that excessive intake of salt is attended with a decrease in the blood prostaglandin E content in healthy individuals and in persons suffering from hypertensive disease. The prostaglandin A content increases simultaneously, evidently for compensation, while the level of prostaglandin F is reduced. The changes in the prostaglandin content of a compensatory character disappear with the development of hypertensive disease. In healthy persons taking salt in excess, the reaction to the furosemid infusion was directed at providing maximum diuresis and natriuresis; in individuals of the control group it was aimed at arresting excess excretion of sodium and water from the body. In patients with hypertensive disease who took salt in excess, the reaction of prostaglandins to furosemid diminished and was practically absent in patients with a stable arterial pressure level.", "contents": "[Plasma prostaglandin reaction to furosemide in healthy persons and in hypertension patients consuming salt in an excessive amount]. The content of prostaglandins A, E, and F in healthy individuals and in persons with hypertensive disease who had taken salt in excess throughout life was studied by the radioimmune method. The reaction of blood prostaglandins to intravenous infusion of 40 mg of furosemid was watched. It was found that excessive intake of salt is attended with a decrease in the blood prostaglandin E content in healthy individuals and in persons suffering from hypertensive disease. The prostaglandin A content increases simultaneously, evidently for compensation, while the level of prostaglandin F is reduced. The changes in the prostaglandin content of a compensatory character disappear with the development of hypertensive disease. In healthy persons taking salt in excess, the reaction to the furosemid infusion was directed at providing maximum diuresis and natriuresis; in individuals of the control group it was aimed at arresting excess excretion of sodium and water from the body. In patients with hypertensive disease who took salt in excess, the reaction of prostaglandins to furosemid diminished and was practically absent in patients with a stable arterial pressure level.", "PMID": 459230} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13705", "title": "[Interrelationship between the basic parameters of hemo- and cardiodynamics in hypertension patients].", "content": "In examination of 541 patients with hypertensive disease and 98 practically healthy persons by means of mechanocardiography, rheography of the aorta and lung, rheovaso-, hepato-, and encephalography, and encephalography, and polycardiography, 4 types of disturbed hemodynamics were distinguished: hyperkinetic, hypokinetic, mixed, and normokinetic. Each type has characteristic signs distinguishing it from the other types and from the normal age parameters. Compared to the normal age parameters the changes in the parameters of the contractive function of the right and left ventricular myocardium and the disorders of blood supply to the liver, brain, and limbs are the most marked in the mixed and hypokinetic hemodynamic variant and less in the normokinetic hemodynamic variant.", "contents": "[Interrelationship between the basic parameters of hemo- and cardiodynamics in hypertension patients]. In examination of 541 patients with hypertensive disease and 98 practically healthy persons by means of mechanocardiography, rheography of the aorta and lung, rheovaso-, hepato-, and encephalography, and encephalography, and polycardiography, 4 types of disturbed hemodynamics were distinguished: hyperkinetic, hypokinetic, mixed, and normokinetic. Each type has characteristic signs distinguishing it from the other types and from the normal age parameters. Compared to the normal age parameters the changes in the parameters of the contractive function of the right and left ventricular myocardium and the disorders of blood supply to the liver, brain, and limbs are the most marked in the mixed and hypokinetic hemodynamic variant and less in the normokinetic hemodynamic variant.", "PMID": 459231} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13706", "title": "[Arterial pressure in cattle breeders living in different climatic and geographic zones of Mongolia].", "content": "Arterial pressure was studied in 2,540 cattle-breeders (1289 men and 1251 women) living in three different climatogeographical zones of Mongolia. It was found that the mean values of arterial pressure in cattle-breeders living in alpine regions, both according to age groups and both sexes, were higher than those in cattle-breeders living in mountain regions of middle and low height. The number of cases with systolic, and diastolic hypertension as well as the number of persons with arterial pressure in the dangerous zone are significantly increased in the alpine region as compared to these data in the other regions. In alpine regions and in mountain regions of medium height in Mongolia, the incidence of hypertension among women is higher than that among men.", "contents": "[Arterial pressure in cattle breeders living in different climatic and geographic zones of Mongolia]. Arterial pressure was studied in 2,540 cattle-breeders (1289 men and 1251 women) living in three different climatogeographical zones of Mongolia. It was found that the mean values of arterial pressure in cattle-breeders living in alpine regions, both according to age groups and both sexes, were higher than those in cattle-breeders living in mountain regions of middle and low height. The number of cases with systolic, and diastolic hypertension as well as the number of persons with arterial pressure in the dangerous zone are significantly increased in the alpine region as compared to these data in the other regions. In alpine regions and in mountain regions of medium height in Mongolia, the incidence of hypertension among women is higher than that among men.", "PMID": 459232} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13707", "title": "[Morphology of fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries].", "content": "Fibromuscular dysplasis of the renal arteries was revealed in 35 patients with renovascular hypertension. Histological examination revealed the following forms of this lesion: fibroplasia of the intima, hyperplasia and fibroplasia of the media, subadventitial fibrosis, as well as their combination. It was found that not only the main branch of the renal artery but also the small intrarenal branches are affected. A decrease of the elastic elements in the middle layer and degenerative changes of various degree in the inner elastic membrane were noted in the wall of the involved artery. This was attended with fibrosis of the intima and disorder of the shape and orientation of the smooth-muscle cells. It is presumed that a local defect in the elastic framework of the artery forms the basis of fibromuscular dysplasia, while the fibrous changes in the vascular wall are evidently secondary and may be associated with the increased synthetic activity of the smooth-muscle cells.", "contents": "[Morphology of fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries]. Fibromuscular dysplasis of the renal arteries was revealed in 35 patients with renovascular hypertension. Histological examination revealed the following forms of this lesion: fibroplasia of the intima, hyperplasia and fibroplasia of the media, subadventitial fibrosis, as well as their combination. It was found that not only the main branch of the renal artery but also the small intrarenal branches are affected. A decrease of the elastic elements in the middle layer and degenerative changes of various degree in the inner elastic membrane were noted in the wall of the involved artery. This was attended with fibrosis of the intima and disorder of the shape and orientation of the smooth-muscle cells. It is presumed that a local defect in the elastic framework of the artery forms the basis of fibromuscular dysplasia, while the fibrous changes in the vascular wall are evidently secondary and may be associated with the increased synthetic activity of the smooth-muscle cells.", "PMID": 459233} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13708", "title": "[Reconstructive surgery in the subclavian steal syndrome].", "content": "On the basis of reports in the literature and the authors' personal experience, reimplantation of the subclavian artery into the common carotid artery is recommended as a method of extrathoracic correction of the subclavian steal syndrome. The results of intraoperative flow measurement indicate the hemodynamic efficacy of the suggested reconstructive operation. The advantages of reimplanting the subclavian artery into the common carotid artery are pointed out, one of which is the marked decrease in the number of postoperative complications.", "contents": "[Reconstructive surgery in the subclavian steal syndrome]. On the basis of reports in the literature and the authors' personal experience, reimplantation of the subclavian artery into the common carotid artery is recommended as a method of extrathoracic correction of the subclavian steal syndrome. The results of intraoperative flow measurement indicate the hemodynamic efficacy of the suggested reconstructive operation. The advantages of reimplanting the subclavian artery into the common carotid artery are pointed out, one of which is the marked decrease in the number of postoperative complications.", "PMID": 459234} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13709", "title": "[Lipid peroxides and atherosclerosis. The enzymatic detoxication of lipid peroxides in the blood in ischemic heart disease due to coronary artery arteriosclerosis].", "content": "It was established that in blood of patients with ischemic heart disease due to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries (the diagnosis was verified in selective coronaroangiography) the content of acylhydroperoxides grows while the activity of glutathione-peroxidase II decreases. In blood of patients with no damage to the coronary vessels (according to the results of angiography), glutathione-peroxidase II activity does not differ significantly from the values in the control group. The decrease of glutathione-peroxidase II activity was most marked in patients with ischemic heart disease and hypercholesterolemia. It is suggested that the increase in the peroxide content in blood of patients with ischemic heart disease may be due to the sharp decrease in the activity of glutathione-peroxidase II.", "contents": "[Lipid peroxides and atherosclerosis. The enzymatic detoxication of lipid peroxides in the blood in ischemic heart disease due to coronary artery arteriosclerosis]. It was established that in blood of patients with ischemic heart disease due to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries (the diagnosis was verified in selective coronaroangiography) the content of acylhydroperoxides grows while the activity of glutathione-peroxidase II decreases. In blood of patients with no damage to the coronary vessels (according to the results of angiography), glutathione-peroxidase II activity does not differ significantly from the values in the control group. The decrease of glutathione-peroxidase II activity was most marked in patients with ischemic heart disease and hypercholesterolemia. It is suggested that the increase in the peroxide content in blood of patients with ischemic heart disease may be due to the sharp decrease in the activity of glutathione-peroxidase II.", "PMID": 459235} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13710", "title": "[Serial echocardiographic studies of the function of the left ventricle in acute myocardial infarct].", "content": "The results of serial echocardiographic examination of 51 patients with primary myocardial infarction are discussed. Echocardiography was performed on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, and 20th days of the disease and before discharge. Thirty patients had infarct of the anterior wall and 21 of the posterior wall. The dynamics of left ventricular asynergy, end diastolic index, and volume/pressure coefficient suggested by Corya et al. were studied. The findings were compared with the indices of 20 healthy persons. The indices of regional and general contractile function of the left ventricle grew worse beginning with the first hours of the disease, the changes were most marked on the 3rd day while in cases with a fatal outcome they progressed or did not change. In cases with a fatal outcome they progressed or did not change. In cases with a favourable outcome, the indices improved gradually, first the volume/pressure coefficient and later the end diastolic index. The zones of asynergy disappeared before discharge in only 5 patients. Differences were found depending on the presence and severity of cardiac insufficiency and the localization of the myocardial infarction.", "contents": "[Serial echocardiographic studies of the function of the left ventricle in acute myocardial infarct]. The results of serial echocardiographic examination of 51 patients with primary myocardial infarction are discussed. Echocardiography was performed on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, and 20th days of the disease and before discharge. Thirty patients had infarct of the anterior wall and 21 of the posterior wall. The dynamics of left ventricular asynergy, end diastolic index, and volume/pressure coefficient suggested by Corya et al. were studied. The findings were compared with the indices of 20 healthy persons. The indices of regional and general contractile function of the left ventricle grew worse beginning with the first hours of the disease, the changes were most marked on the 3rd day while in cases with a fatal outcome they progressed or did not change. In cases with a fatal outcome they progressed or did not change. In cases with a favourable outcome, the indices improved gradually, first the volume/pressure coefficient and later the end diastolic index. The zones of asynergy disappeared before discharge in only 5 patients. Differences were found depending on the presence and severity of cardiac insufficiency and the localization of the myocardial infarction.", "PMID": 459236} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13711", "title": "[Modelling of measured restriction of the coronary blood flow].", "content": "Experiments were conducted on dogs under conditions of closed chest catheterization and autoperfusion of the coronary vessels to study the methods and manipulations providing reliable reproduction of previously planned direct restriction of coronary blood flow, strictly dosed in degree and duration, simulating coronary insufficiency of various severity. The use of this complex of methods and manipulations makes it possible to avoid the shortcomings and undesirable consequences of denervation of the coronary arteries and their extravascular mechanical compression and the need to open the chest. The simulated restriction of coronary blood flow is reversible owing to which it may be reproduce many time in one experiment.", "contents": "[Modelling of measured restriction of the coronary blood flow]. Experiments were conducted on dogs under conditions of closed chest catheterization and autoperfusion of the coronary vessels to study the methods and manipulations providing reliable reproduction of previously planned direct restriction of coronary blood flow, strictly dosed in degree and duration, simulating coronary insufficiency of various severity. The use of this complex of methods and manipulations makes it possible to avoid the shortcomings and undesirable consequences of denervation of the coronary arteries and their extravascular mechanical compression and the need to open the chest. The simulated restriction of coronary blood flow is reversible owing to which it may be reproduce many time in one experiment.", "PMID": 459237} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13712", "title": "Acetate transfer across membranes of artificial kidneys in vitro.", "content": "To determine the rate of acetate transfer across hemodialysis membranes and to investigate the factors which influence acetate dialysance, we performed experiments with Dow-4, Gambro-13.5, and Travenol UF-II artificial kidneys using 14C-acetate. The rate of acetate dialysance was influenced strongly by the rate of fluid flow through the blood path, similar to the dialysance of other low-molecular-weight solutes. The ultrafiltration of fluid from the blood path to dialysate reduced the rate of transfer of acetate from dialysate to blood. The dialysance of acetate was significantly less than that of urea, despite their nearly identical molecular weights. This was not due to the direction of solute transfer. Experiments with a Kaufman-Leonard dialyzer demonstrated that the permeability of Cuprophane membranes to urea was greater than that to acetate was; this may be due to the charged nature of acetate.", "contents": "Acetate transfer across membranes of artificial kidneys in vitro. To determine the rate of acetate transfer across hemodialysis membranes and to investigate the factors which influence acetate dialysance, we performed experiments with Dow-4, Gambro-13.5, and Travenol UF-II artificial kidneys using 14C-acetate. The rate of acetate dialysance was influenced strongly by the rate of fluid flow through the blood path, similar to the dialysance of other low-molecular-weight solutes. The ultrafiltration of fluid from the blood path to dialysate reduced the rate of transfer of acetate from dialysate to blood. The dialysance of acetate was significantly less than that of urea, despite their nearly identical molecular weights. This was not due to the direction of solute transfer. Experiments with a Kaufman-Leonard dialyzer demonstrated that the permeability of Cuprophane membranes to urea was greater than that to acetate was; this may be due to the charged nature of acetate.", "PMID": 459243} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13713", "title": "Urinary excretion and tissue accumulation of gentamicin and paraaminohippurate in postischemic rat kidneys.", "content": "Unilateral renal ischemia was induced in rats by clamping the left renal artery for 20, 60, and 120 min, respectively. One hour after the arterial clamp was removed, renal handling of gentamicin and paraaminohippurate (PAH) was studied over the next 2 hours; the kidneys were removed at the end of the experiments for determination of gentamicin and PAH content. The ischemic damage was evidenced by morphologic and functional changes. The glomerular filtration was decreased in proportion to the severity of ischemic injury. The excretion of gentamicin was highly correlated with GFR in normal and postischemic kidneys. In the cortex, ischemic injury resulted in reduced concentrations of gentamicin but markedly augmented those of PAH. The finding is consistent with the hypothesis that gentamicin is reabsorbed by the epithelial cells through the luminal membrane, whereas PAH enters via the peritubular membrane. In contrast, medullary concentrations of both compounds were similar, with suppression of uptake seen only after 120 min of ischemia. Conclusion. Ischemic damage impairs urinary elimination of gentamicin and the ability of renal parenchyma to retain the drug. Difference in uptake between gentamicin and PAH were unmasked in the postischemic kidneys.", "contents": "Urinary excretion and tissue accumulation of gentamicin and paraaminohippurate in postischemic rat kidneys. Unilateral renal ischemia was induced in rats by clamping the left renal artery for 20, 60, and 120 min, respectively. One hour after the arterial clamp was removed, renal handling of gentamicin and paraaminohippurate (PAH) was studied over the next 2 hours; the kidneys were removed at the end of the experiments for determination of gentamicin and PAH content. The ischemic damage was evidenced by morphologic and functional changes. The glomerular filtration was decreased in proportion to the severity of ischemic injury. The excretion of gentamicin was highly correlated with GFR in normal and postischemic kidneys. In the cortex, ischemic injury resulted in reduced concentrations of gentamicin but markedly augmented those of PAH. The finding is consistent with the hypothesis that gentamicin is reabsorbed by the epithelial cells through the luminal membrane, whereas PAH enters via the peritubular membrane. In contrast, medullary concentrations of both compounds were similar, with suppression of uptake seen only after 120 min of ischemia. Conclusion. Ischemic damage impairs urinary elimination of gentamicin and the ability of renal parenchyma to retain the drug. Difference in uptake between gentamicin and PAH were unmasked in the postischemic kidneys.", "PMID": 459244} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13714", "title": "Ultrastructural events in early calcium oxalate crystal formation in rats.", "content": "A model system is described for the induction of renal calcium oxalate crystals with intraperitineal injections of sodium oxalate in rats. Early crystals are formed predominantly in cortical areas. Massive amounts of calcium are associated with this process, as demonstrated by potassium pyroantimonate staining. Actual crystal formation appears to be an involved process associated with calcium, oxalate, and cellular membranes. Although overt stone formation was not observed, we feel that the intimate involvement of membranes during crystal formation may be similar to that found in renal stones.", "contents": "Ultrastructural events in early calcium oxalate crystal formation in rats. A model system is described for the induction of renal calcium oxalate crystals with intraperitineal injections of sodium oxalate in rats. Early crystals are formed predominantly in cortical areas. Massive amounts of calcium are associated with this process, as demonstrated by potassium pyroantimonate staining. Actual crystal formation appears to be an involved process associated with calcium, oxalate, and cellular membranes. Although overt stone formation was not observed, we feel that the intimate involvement of membranes during crystal formation may be similar to that found in renal stones.", "PMID": 459245} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13715", "title": "Disposition of intravenous potassium in anuric man: a kinetic analysis.", "content": "The disposition of a constant-rate (0.3 mEq/kg/hr) intravenous potassium load was studied in anuric, chronic hemodialysis patients. Changes in plasma potassium concentration could be adequately described by a two-compartment kinetic model under both isohydric conditions and during acute metabolic alkalosis. From 63 to 92% of the infused potassium left the extracellular fluid (ECF) in isohydric studies, and from 73 to 97% left the ECF in alkalanizing studies. Cellular uptake of the infused potassium was less when the plasma potassium concentration was higher. Plasma aldosterone levels rose but insulin levels did not increase during infusions. In a juvenile-onset diabetic subject, the impairment of cellular potassium uptake at higher plasma potassium was magnified so that infused potassium was virtually confined to the ECF compartment until exogenous insulin was given. This implies a permissive rather than a regulatory role for endogenous insulin in facilitating cellular entry of excess potassium.", "contents": "Disposition of intravenous potassium in anuric man: a kinetic analysis. The disposition of a constant-rate (0.3 mEq/kg/hr) intravenous potassium load was studied in anuric, chronic hemodialysis patients. Changes in plasma potassium concentration could be adequately described by a two-compartment kinetic model under both isohydric conditions and during acute metabolic alkalosis. From 63 to 92% of the infused potassium left the extracellular fluid (ECF) in isohydric studies, and from 73 to 97% left the ECF in alkalanizing studies. Cellular uptake of the infused potassium was less when the plasma potassium concentration was higher. Plasma aldosterone levels rose but insulin levels did not increase during infusions. In a juvenile-onset diabetic subject, the impairment of cellular potassium uptake at higher plasma potassium was magnified so that infused potassium was virtually confined to the ECF compartment until exogenous insulin was given. This implies a permissive rather than a regulatory role for endogenous insulin in facilitating cellular entry of excess potassium.", "PMID": 459246} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13716", "title": "beta blockade with pindolol: differential cardiac and renal effects despite similar plasma kinetics in normal and uremic man.", "content": "Cardiac and renal effects (measured as the reduction in exercise-induced tachycardia and PRA, respectively) and circulating drug concentrations after acute beta blockade with intravenous pindolol were compared between seven normal volunteers and six patients with terminal renal failure. Kinetic parameters were similar in both groups (total body clearance, 450 mg/min), indicating enhanced extrarenal elimination in patients. For any given drug concentration, however, the uremic patients responded to beta blockade with a greater decrease in pulse rate than did normal volunteers (P less than 0.001). Moreover, in the same group, the decrease of PRA was more marked (from 13.3 to 5.7 vs. 3.3 to 1.9 ng/ml/hr) and lasted longer (8 hours and more vs. 2 hours). Plasma aldosterone remained unchanged. These data reveal an increased dependency of both heart rate and renin release on beta adrenergic-mediated mechanisms in uremic man. They also show that kinetic findings in normal subjects cannot always be extrapolated to predict kinetic behavior in disease, and that similar kinetics do not imply similar effectiveness.", "contents": "beta blockade with pindolol: differential cardiac and renal effects despite similar plasma kinetics in normal and uremic man. Cardiac and renal effects (measured as the reduction in exercise-induced tachycardia and PRA, respectively) and circulating drug concentrations after acute beta blockade with intravenous pindolol were compared between seven normal volunteers and six patients with terminal renal failure. Kinetic parameters were similar in both groups (total body clearance, 450 mg/min), indicating enhanced extrarenal elimination in patients. For any given drug concentration, however, the uremic patients responded to beta blockade with a greater decrease in pulse rate than did normal volunteers (P less than 0.001). Moreover, in the same group, the decrease of PRA was more marked (from 13.3 to 5.7 vs. 3.3 to 1.9 ng/ml/hr) and lasted longer (8 hours and more vs. 2 hours). Plasma aldosterone remained unchanged. These data reveal an increased dependency of both heart rate and renin release on beta adrenergic-mediated mechanisms in uremic man. They also show that kinetic findings in normal subjects cannot always be extrapolated to predict kinetic behavior in disease, and that similar kinetics do not imply similar effectiveness.", "PMID": 459247} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13717", "title": "[The prism loupe spectacles used as low vision aid and in microsurgery (author's transl)].", "content": "In 1970 Biessels developed and constructed the new binocular prism loupe spectacles, mainly as improved low vision aids. They were derived from the Zeiss 8 x 20 prism binoculars, however, with different lenses and mechanical parts. They are quite different from the Galilean telescopic spectacles, hitherto available, with their lower mangifications, short working distances, chromatic aberration, and peripheral unsharpness. The Biessels prism loupes with variable magnification up to 12 times, and working distances of 18 to 30 cm, are mounted into spectacles. They provide for a comfortable stereoscopic vision with normal convergence. The visual field is virtually 20 cm at 25 cm distance, and sharp to the edges. The weight of a complete binocular prism loupe, including the frame, is from 100 to 110 grammes. In the past 7 years more than 500 of such visual aids have been delivered to low vision patients, half of them binocular, also 40 operating spectacles for microsurgery, all of them with great success. Here we report on the technical details and good results.", "contents": "[The prism loupe spectacles used as low vision aid and in microsurgery (author's transl)]. In 1970 Biessels developed and constructed the new binocular prism loupe spectacles, mainly as improved low vision aids. They were derived from the Zeiss 8 x 20 prism binoculars, however, with different lenses and mechanical parts. They are quite different from the Galilean telescopic spectacles, hitherto available, with their lower mangifications, short working distances, chromatic aberration, and peripheral unsharpness. The Biessels prism loupes with variable magnification up to 12 times, and working distances of 18 to 30 cm, are mounted into spectacles. They provide for a comfortable stereoscopic vision with normal convergence. The visual field is virtually 20 cm at 25 cm distance, and sharp to the edges. The weight of a complete binocular prism loupe, including the frame, is from 100 to 110 grammes. In the past 7 years more than 500 of such visual aids have been delivered to low vision patients, half of them binocular, also 40 operating spectacles for microsurgery, all of them with great success. Here we report on the technical details and good results.", "PMID": 459323} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13718", "title": "[Fluorescence-angiography, infrared-photography and histology in malignant melanoma of the papilla (author's transl)].", "content": "In a 60-year-old female a juxtapapillary malignant melanoma of the choroid invading and strangling the prelaminary section of the optic nerve head, and being masked by a massive papilledema, could be revealed by combined application of ultrasonography, fluorescenceangiography and infrared-photography. The histological examination confirmed the clinical diagnosis.", "contents": "[Fluorescence-angiography, infrared-photography and histology in malignant melanoma of the papilla (author's transl)]. In a 60-year-old female a juxtapapillary malignant melanoma of the choroid invading and strangling the prelaminary section of the optic nerve head, and being masked by a massive papilledema, could be revealed by combined application of ultrasonography, fluorescenceangiography and infrared-photography. The histological examination confirmed the clinical diagnosis.", "PMID": 459324} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13719", "title": "[Extraction of an encapsulated foreign body by means of pars plana vitrectomy (author's transl)].", "content": "Pre- and intraretinally encapsulated foreign bodies can be removed by means of pars plana vitrectomy, incision of the capsule and extraction of the foreign body with a forceps. Case reports of 3 patients are presented.", "contents": "[Extraction of an encapsulated foreign body by means of pars plana vitrectomy (author's transl)]. Pre- and intraretinally encapsulated foreign bodies can be removed by means of pars plana vitrectomy, incision of the capsule and extraction of the foreign body with a forceps. Case reports of 3 patients are presented.", "PMID": 459325} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13720", "title": "[Retinal surface wrinkling and epiretinal membranes in hemorrhagic secondary glaucoma (author's transl)].", "content": "Wrinkling of the retinal surface was found histologically in 54,5% of 88 globes enucleated because of hemorrhagic secondary glaucoma. In 92% of these cases the wrinkles were associated with epiretinal membranes. These were divided into: cellular, fibrous and mixed fibrocellular membranes. The combination of surface wrinkling and pure cellular membranes, interpreted as glial in nature, was found in only 6% of cases while fibrous and mixed membranes occurred in 85% of cases. The fibrous component seems therefore to be an important factor in surface wrinkling retinopathy. Age, sex, intraocular pressure and previous surgery did not influence the frequency or type of these spontaneous epiretinal fibroplasias of vascular etiology.", "contents": "[Retinal surface wrinkling and epiretinal membranes in hemorrhagic secondary glaucoma (author's transl)]. Wrinkling of the retinal surface was found histologically in 54,5% of 88 globes enucleated because of hemorrhagic secondary glaucoma. In 92% of these cases the wrinkles were associated with epiretinal membranes. These were divided into: cellular, fibrous and mixed fibrocellular membranes. The combination of surface wrinkling and pure cellular membranes, interpreted as glial in nature, was found in only 6% of cases while fibrous and mixed membranes occurred in 85% of cases. The fibrous component seems therefore to be an important factor in surface wrinkling retinopathy. Age, sex, intraocular pressure and previous surgery did not influence the frequency or type of these spontaneous epiretinal fibroplasias of vascular etiology.", "PMID": 459326} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13721", "title": "[Interstitial linear keratitis (author's transl)].", "content": "There cases of interstitial linear keratitis are described. A linear infiltration was found in the anterior part of the corneal stroma, which remained stable throughout the observation period and became a dense scar. The disease shows frequent recurrencies, the etiology remains unknown. All three patients treated were of young age.", "contents": "[Interstitial linear keratitis (author's transl)]. There cases of interstitial linear keratitis are described. A linear infiltration was found in the anterior part of the corneal stroma, which remained stable throughout the observation period and became a dense scar. The disease shows frequent recurrencies, the etiology remains unknown. All three patients treated were of young age.", "PMID": 459327} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13722", "title": "[Occlusion contact lenses (author's transl)].", "content": "A reliable inconspicuous occlusion therapy is achieved by fitting different, specially manufactured contact lenses. Based on a study of a number of cases, the author discusses the indications for a occlusion contact lens. These lenses provide a means for treating amblyopia in schoolchildren and adults, as well as for eliminating diplopia, photophobia and metamorphopsia.", "contents": "[Occlusion contact lenses (author's transl)]. A reliable inconspicuous occlusion therapy is achieved by fitting different, specially manufactured contact lenses. Based on a study of a number of cases, the author discusses the indications for a occlusion contact lens. These lenses provide a means for treating amblyopia in schoolchildren and adults, as well as for eliminating diplopia, photophobia and metamorphopsia.", "PMID": 459328} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13723", "title": "[Acute glaucoma attack due to an operation on a serious carotis stenosis (author's transl)].", "content": "The subject of this report is an acute glaucoma attack, which occurred eight hours after an operation on a serious carotis stenosis following the increase in blood-pressure.", "contents": "[Acute glaucoma attack due to an operation on a serious carotis stenosis (author's transl)]. The subject of this report is an acute glaucoma attack, which occurred eight hours after an operation on a serious carotis stenosis following the increase in blood-pressure.", "PMID": 459329} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13724", "title": "[Choroideremie in childhood (author's transl)].", "content": "By means of fluorescein angiography extensive defects in the pigmented epithelium found in choroideremia can be shown to be present in the first ten years of life. The degeneration of the vessels of the choroid and the functional damage to the retina do not seem to take place until later.", "contents": "[Choroideremie in childhood (author's transl)]. By means of fluorescein angiography extensive defects in the pigmented epithelium found in choroideremia can be shown to be present in the first ten years of life. The degeneration of the vessels of the choroid and the functional damage to the retina do not seem to take place until later.", "PMID": 459330} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13725", "title": "[Light microscope and scanning electron microscope findings in acute keratoconus (author's transl)].", "content": "An acute keratoconus was examined for the first time using a scanning electron microscope. The alterations in the epithelium of the cornea consisted of a reduction in microvilli and microplicae structures, disruption of the intercellular spaces with raised protrusions of epithelial cells in the region of the peak of the keratoconus or even of the complete disappearance of all regular surface structures. In the stroma distinct irregularities in the lamellae, sometimes even the formation of cavities in the region of the cornea peak, could be seen. These findings correlate well with the light microscope pictures and with the published transmission electron microscopic results.", "contents": "[Light microscope and scanning electron microscope findings in acute keratoconus (author's transl)]. An acute keratoconus was examined for the first time using a scanning electron microscope. The alterations in the epithelium of the cornea consisted of a reduction in microvilli and microplicae structures, disruption of the intercellular spaces with raised protrusions of epithelial cells in the region of the peak of the keratoconus or even of the complete disappearance of all regular surface structures. In the stroma distinct irregularities in the lamellae, sometimes even the formation of cavities in the region of the cornea peak, could be seen. These findings correlate well with the light microscope pictures and with the published transmission electron microscopic results.", "PMID": 459331} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13726", "title": "[Refractometry after treating with atropine and cyclopentolat in childhood (author's transl)].", "content": "Using Rodenstock's Refraktometer refractometry was done on 314 hyperopic children (3--14 years) first after treating with Atropine and some weeks later after Cyclopentolat-hydrochlorid. 53,1% of them showed higher hyperopia after Atropine than after Cyclopentolat, the maximum in difference was 1,75 dptr. In another group of children with Cyclopentolat-treating the residual accommodation was determined by four different methods (Refactometer, Apparatus of Schober, Phoropter in a distance of 5,0 and 0,4 mtrs). The results show a minimum of accommodation 45 minutes after application of the drops under special conditions. These conditions are reported as well as a method of correction of hypermetropia due to the values of refractometry or residual accommodation.", "contents": "[Refractometry after treating with atropine and cyclopentolat in childhood (author's transl)]. Using Rodenstock's Refraktometer refractometry was done on 314 hyperopic children (3--14 years) first after treating with Atropine and some weeks later after Cyclopentolat-hydrochlorid. 53,1% of them showed higher hyperopia after Atropine than after Cyclopentolat, the maximum in difference was 1,75 dptr. In another group of children with Cyclopentolat-treating the residual accommodation was determined by four different methods (Refactometer, Apparatus of Schober, Phoropter in a distance of 5,0 and 0,4 mtrs). The results show a minimum of accommodation 45 minutes after application of the drops under special conditions. These conditions are reported as well as a method of correction of hypermetropia due to the values of refractometry or residual accommodation.", "PMID": 459332} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13727", "title": "[Fusion and aniseikonic problems in unilateral aphakia (author's transl)].", "content": "In 67 unilateral aphakic patients corrected with three different optic systems (conventional contact lens, spheric overcorrection and intraocular lens) aniseikonia and binocular vision are tested. Conventional contact lens leads to 7% aniseikonia and to fusion in only half of the cases. Patients with the two other systems show less than 3% aniseikonia and fusion in most cases. With each system only 10% of the patients reach normal stereoscopic vision. The poor results in unilateral aphakia corrected by conventional contact lens are pointed out.", "contents": "[Fusion and aniseikonic problems in unilateral aphakia (author's transl)]. In 67 unilateral aphakic patients corrected with three different optic systems (conventional contact lens, spheric overcorrection and intraocular lens) aniseikonia and binocular vision are tested. Conventional contact lens leads to 7% aniseikonia and to fusion in only half of the cases. Patients with the two other systems show less than 3% aniseikonia and fusion in most cases. With each system only 10% of the patients reach normal stereoscopic vision. The poor results in unilateral aphakia corrected by conventional contact lens are pointed out.", "PMID": 459333} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13728", "title": "[Multiple conjunctival malignant melanomas (author's transl)].", "content": "5 1/2 years after excision of pigmented malignant melanoma which apparently arose in a nevus of the paralimbal bulbar conjunctiva, this 42-year-old male presented himself with a nonpigmented mass of the lid margin which also proved to be a malignant melanoma. \"Acquired melanosis sine pigmento\" was considered as a site of origin, but histopathologically there is more evidence that this melanoma arose in a non-pigmented compound nevus.", "contents": "[Multiple conjunctival malignant melanomas (author's transl)]. 5 1/2 years after excision of pigmented malignant melanoma which apparently arose in a nevus of the paralimbal bulbar conjunctiva, this 42-year-old male presented himself with a nonpigmented mass of the lid margin which also proved to be a malignant melanoma. \"Acquired melanosis sine pigmento\" was considered as a site of origin, but histopathologically there is more evidence that this melanoma arose in a non-pigmented compound nevus.", "PMID": 459334} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13729", "title": "[Case report of a gonoblennorrhoea in both eyes (author's transl)].", "content": "It is reported of a serious form of a gonoblennorrhoea in both eyes of a five-week old girl. The baby had the typical symptoms of this disease. An intense local and general therapy with Penicillin G was applied and the infection ceased within two weeks after reception. The reason of the infection was a transfer from hand to eye, because her mother suffered from a gonorrhoeal urethritis.", "contents": "[Case report of a gonoblennorrhoea in both eyes (author's transl)]. It is reported of a serious form of a gonoblennorrhoea in both eyes of a five-week old girl. The baby had the typical symptoms of this disease. An intense local and general therapy with Penicillin G was applied and the infection ceased within two weeks after reception. The reason of the infection was a transfer from hand to eye, because her mother suffered from a gonorrhoeal urethritis.", "PMID": 459335} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13730", "title": "[The Hruby-lens--used inverse (author's transl)].", "content": "The Hruby-lens may be used as a contact lens with the plano surface in contact with the cornea and the concavity facing the microscope. The observer surveys a large field of the fundus. By decentering the lens, adjacent and peripheral areas of the fundus are drawn into the observer's field. This increases further the total area of fundus that can be observed.", "contents": "[The Hruby-lens--used inverse (author's transl)]. The Hruby-lens may be used as a contact lens with the plano surface in contact with the cornea and the concavity facing the microscope. The observer surveys a large field of the fundus. By decentering the lens, adjacent and peripheral areas of the fundus are drawn into the observer's field. This increases further the total area of fundus that can be observed.", "PMID": 459336} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13731", "title": "[Ophthalmological opinions for liability affairs. The question of smart-money (author's transl)].", "content": "Besides the compensation of the damage German Law includes also to compensate the noneconomical damage as pain, cosmetic or psychic damage etc. The ophthalmological expert is to state his opinion in accordance with individual consequences of the damage for the given person. He is not obliged to make proposition about the amount of financial compensation of smart-money because this point has to deal with other juridical circumstances of the specific conditions of every individual case.", "contents": "[Ophthalmological opinions for liability affairs. The question of smart-money (author's transl)]. Besides the compensation of the damage German Law includes also to compensate the noneconomical damage as pain, cosmetic or psychic damage etc. The ophthalmological expert is to state his opinion in accordance with individual consequences of the damage for the given person. He is not obliged to make proposition about the amount of financial compensation of smart-money because this point has to deal with other juridical circumstances of the specific conditions of every individual case.", "PMID": 459337} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13732", "title": "[Primary hyperparathyroidism--bone turnover and osteitis fibrosa assessed by x-ray (author's transl)].", "content": "1. In primary hyperparathyroidism an increased bone turnover is seen, accompanied by osteitis fibrosa (= fibroosteoclasia, FO) in severe forms of the disease. Both types of bone reaction may be detected by microradioscopy X-rays of the hand, extensive striation of metacarpal cortical bone indicating increased bone turnover and subperiosteal resorption of phalanges pointing to FO. 2. In the present study 65 patients with proven PHPT were evaluated before and 39 after operation. Microradioscopy was combined with biochemical assessment of hyperparathyroidism including alkaline serum phosphatase (aPh) as an index of osteoblastic activity, hydroxyprolin excretion (HyPro) reflecting bone turnover, immunoreactive parathyroid hormone levels (PTH), serum calcium (SCa), urinary calcium (UCa), serum inorganic phosphorus (SP) and clearance of phosphate (Cp). A comparison was made with the incidence of renal stone disease and the degrees of metacarpal striation (StG) and subperiosteal resorption (UG) were followed after operation. 3. Preoperative X-rays of 60% of the PHPT subjects showed increased StG and/or UG, and in 41,5% the diagnosis of PHPT was possible from the X-ray findings only. There existed a significant correlation between StG and UG on one hand and aPh, HyPro and PTH on the other. No correlation, either positive or negative, was seen between FO and the incidence of renal stones. After surgery, subperiosteal bone lesions disappeared in all patients, while intracortical striations persisted in half of the subjects despite the normalised bone turnover. Thus, primary hyperparathyroidism may not only lead to endosteal bone loss but to an irreversible intracortical bone deficit as well.", "contents": "[Primary hyperparathyroidism--bone turnover and osteitis fibrosa assessed by x-ray (author's transl)]. 1. In primary hyperparathyroidism an increased bone turnover is seen, accompanied by osteitis fibrosa (= fibroosteoclasia, FO) in severe forms of the disease. Both types of bone reaction may be detected by microradioscopy X-rays of the hand, extensive striation of metacarpal cortical bone indicating increased bone turnover and subperiosteal resorption of phalanges pointing to FO. 2. In the present study 65 patients with proven PHPT were evaluated before and 39 after operation. Microradioscopy was combined with biochemical assessment of hyperparathyroidism including alkaline serum phosphatase (aPh) as an index of osteoblastic activity, hydroxyprolin excretion (HyPro) reflecting bone turnover, immunoreactive parathyroid hormone levels (PTH), serum calcium (SCa), urinary calcium (UCa), serum inorganic phosphorus (SP) and clearance of phosphate (Cp). A comparison was made with the incidence of renal stone disease and the degrees of metacarpal striation (StG) and subperiosteal resorption (UG) were followed after operation. 3. Preoperative X-rays of 60% of the PHPT subjects showed increased StG and/or UG, and in 41,5% the diagnosis of PHPT was possible from the X-ray findings only. There existed a significant correlation between StG and UG on one hand and aPh, HyPro and PTH on the other. No correlation, either positive or negative, was seen between FO and the incidence of renal stones. After surgery, subperiosteal bone lesions disappeared in all patients, while intracortical striations persisted in half of the subjects despite the normalised bone turnover. Thus, primary hyperparathyroidism may not only lead to endosteal bone loss but to an irreversible intracortical bone deficit as well.", "PMID": 459367} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13733", "title": "[Diagnostic procedures in diencephalo-hypophyseal insufficiency (author's transl)].", "content": "A functional diagnosis of the diencephalohypophyseal system was carried out in patients with Sheehan syndrome, chromophobic adenoma, craniopharyngioma, prolactin-producing pituitary tumours, acromegaly, hypothalamo-pituitary dwarfism and constitutional retardation. A combined insulin hypoglycaemia/LH-RH/TSH test was performed to define frequency and extent of anterior pituitary insufficiency. With these illnesses, almost generally, a somatotropic insufficiency (except in acromegaly) was found. An impairment of gonadotropic function was often present, in general a pathologic LH-RH test correlating with a more or less developed androgen deficiency. An adrenocorticotropic insufficiency was found in most patients with sheehan syndrome, chromophobic adenoma and craniopharyngioma while in acromegaly and hypothalamo-pituitary dwarfism it was present less frequently, necessitating a substitution with corticoids. The TRH test reflects only incompletely a secondary hypothyroidism, and can be normal with organic processes of the diencephalo-hypophyseal region, making a T3 and T4 estimation in the blood decisive for a thyroid hormone substitution. A clear-cut separation of the hypothalamic from the pituitary cause of the insufficiency is neither possible with the LH-RH nor with the TRH test.", "contents": "[Diagnostic procedures in diencephalo-hypophyseal insufficiency (author's transl)]. A functional diagnosis of the diencephalohypophyseal system was carried out in patients with Sheehan syndrome, chromophobic adenoma, craniopharyngioma, prolactin-producing pituitary tumours, acromegaly, hypothalamo-pituitary dwarfism and constitutional retardation. A combined insulin hypoglycaemia/LH-RH/TSH test was performed to define frequency and extent of anterior pituitary insufficiency. With these illnesses, almost generally, a somatotropic insufficiency (except in acromegaly) was found. An impairment of gonadotropic function was often present, in general a pathologic LH-RH test correlating with a more or less developed androgen deficiency. An adrenocorticotropic insufficiency was found in most patients with sheehan syndrome, chromophobic adenoma and craniopharyngioma while in acromegaly and hypothalamo-pituitary dwarfism it was present less frequently, necessitating a substitution with corticoids. The TRH test reflects only incompletely a secondary hypothyroidism, and can be normal with organic processes of the diencephalo-hypophyseal region, making a T3 and T4 estimation in the blood decisive for a thyroid hormone substitution. A clear-cut separation of the hypothalamic from the pituitary cause of the insufficiency is neither possible with the LH-RH nor with the TRH test.", "PMID": 459366} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13734", "title": "The distribution of HLA-Antigens in German patients with idiopathic hemochromatosis.", "content": "HLA-phenotypes were determined in 31 (30 unrelated) patients with hemochromatosis and compared to the distribution of HLA-antigens in the general German population. A significant excess of HLA-A3 was observed (76.7% vs. 30.2%). The frequency of HLA-B7 was also increased (53.3% vs. 27.0%). However, the difference did not quite reach the level of statistical significance, when correction for multiple comparisons was made. Our findings are in accord with previous observations for different ethnic groups, indicating an association of IH with the A3/B7 haplotype.", "contents": "The distribution of HLA-Antigens in German patients with idiopathic hemochromatosis. HLA-phenotypes were determined in 31 (30 unrelated) patients with hemochromatosis and compared to the distribution of HLA-antigens in the general German population. A significant excess of HLA-A3 was observed (76.7% vs. 30.2%). The frequency of HLA-B7 was also increased (53.3% vs. 27.0%). However, the difference did not quite reach the level of statistical significance, when correction for multiple comparisons was made. Our findings are in accord with previous observations for different ethnic groups, indicating an association of IH with the A3/B7 haplotype.", "PMID": 459368} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13735", "title": "[Reduced urinary prostaglandin E2-excretion and diminished responsiveness of plasma renin activity in patients with essential hypertension (author's transl)].", "content": "Under basal conditions prostaglandin (PG) E2-excretion was significantly lower in 35 patients with essential hypertension studied than in 22 age- and sex-matched controls (p less than 0.02). PGF 2 alpha--excretion was similar in both groups. Within the first 15 minutes after furosemide i.v., PGE2-excretion rose substantially less in the patients than in the controls (p less than 0.001), while the increase in PGF 2 alpha-excretion was not different for both groups. The coincident rise of plasma renin activity was significantly lower in the hypertensive (167% +/- 11, SEM) than in the normotensive (386% +/- 46) group (p less than 0.001). Our results support the assumption that a decrease in renal cortical (vascular?) synthesis of vasodilatating PG's may be the cause for both, the diminished secretion of renin and the increase of vascular resistance in the kidney, which are often associated in essential hypertension.", "contents": "[Reduced urinary prostaglandin E2-excretion and diminished responsiveness of plasma renin activity in patients with essential hypertension (author's transl)]. Under basal conditions prostaglandin (PG) E2-excretion was significantly lower in 35 patients with essential hypertension studied than in 22 age- and sex-matched controls (p less than 0.02). PGF 2 alpha--excretion was similar in both groups. Within the first 15 minutes after furosemide i.v., PGE2-excretion rose substantially less in the patients than in the controls (p less than 0.001), while the increase in PGF 2 alpha-excretion was not different for both groups. The coincident rise of plasma renin activity was significantly lower in the hypertensive (167% +/- 11, SEM) than in the normotensive (386% +/- 46) group (p less than 0.001). Our results support the assumption that a decrease in renal cortical (vascular?) synthesis of vasodilatating PG's may be the cause for both, the diminished secretion of renin and the increase of vascular resistance in the kidney, which are often associated in essential hypertension.", "PMID": 459371} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13736", "title": "[Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CEA-like activities in ascites and pleura-effusions (author's transl)].", "content": "Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was assayed in 18 samples of non-malignant and 21 samples of malignant effusions. In 95% of benign effusion CEA activity was found within normal limits and increased only in one case of Klebsiella pneumonia. In 57% of the 21 malignant effusions CEA levels were elevated and in 4 cases elevated titers were first indications of the malignancy of the effusion. In some cases remarkable differences between serum titer and effusion titer were found. Combined measurement of CEA activity in plasma and effusion increases diagnostic value.", "contents": "[Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CEA-like activities in ascites and pleura-effusions (author's transl)]. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was assayed in 18 samples of non-malignant and 21 samples of malignant effusions. In 95% of benign effusion CEA activity was found within normal limits and increased only in one case of Klebsiella pneumonia. In 57% of the 21 malignant effusions CEA levels were elevated and in 4 cases elevated titers were first indications of the malignancy of the effusion. In some cases remarkable differences between serum titer and effusion titer were found. Combined measurement of CEA activity in plasma and effusion increases diagnostic value.", "PMID": 459372} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13737", "title": "Activity of procollagen-prolyl-hydroxylase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase in liver biopsies from patients with chronic liver diseases.", "content": "In 5 mg of liver tissue obtained by needle biopsy from patients with chronic liver diseases, activity of both Procollagen-prolyl-hydroxylase and N-Acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase was measured. The activity of both enzymes increased due to the activity of fibrosis, but prolylhydroxylase increased more. The relation of these two enzyme activities in the development of liver fibrosis is discussed.", "contents": "Activity of procollagen-prolyl-hydroxylase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase in liver biopsies from patients with chronic liver diseases. In 5 mg of liver tissue obtained by needle biopsy from patients with chronic liver diseases, activity of both Procollagen-prolyl-hydroxylase and N-Acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase was measured. The activity of both enzymes increased due to the activity of fibrosis, but prolylhydroxylase increased more. The relation of these two enzyme activities in the development of liver fibrosis is discussed.", "PMID": 459373} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13738", "title": "Dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system in tetanus. A study of 3 cases.", "content": "In severe cases of tetanus an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system has been postulated because of the clinical symptoms including hypertension, fluctuating blood pressure, tachycardia, tachyarrhythmia and peripheral vasoconstriction. In the present study the involvement of the sympathetic nervous system in tetanus was investigated by serial determinations of plasma adrenaline (A) and noradrenaline (NA) in 2 patients who developed severe symptoms of tetanus and the characteristic cardiovascular disturbances. Sustained high circulating levels of NA and A could be observed indicating a prolonged overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. In one case, the elevation of the NA level in plasma persisted until the disturbances of the motor nervous system ceased. In a third case of tetanus without cardiovascular abnormalities, the plasma NA and A only increased slightly on a few occasions. The results demonstrate that an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system can complicate the course of severe tetanus.", "contents": "Dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system in tetanus. A study of 3 cases. In severe cases of tetanus an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system has been postulated because of the clinical symptoms including hypertension, fluctuating blood pressure, tachycardia, tachyarrhythmia and peripheral vasoconstriction. In the present study the involvement of the sympathetic nervous system in tetanus was investigated by serial determinations of plasma adrenaline (A) and noradrenaline (NA) in 2 patients who developed severe symptoms of tetanus and the characteristic cardiovascular disturbances. Sustained high circulating levels of NA and A could be observed indicating a prolonged overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. In one case, the elevation of the NA level in plasma persisted until the disturbances of the motor nervous system ceased. In a third case of tetanus without cardiovascular abnormalities, the plasma NA and A only increased slightly on a few occasions. The results demonstrate that an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system can complicate the course of severe tetanus.", "PMID": 459374} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13739", "title": "Activation of human large bowel adenylate cyclase by methylated prostaglandin E2 analogues.", "content": "The effects of methylated analogues of prostaglandin E2 upon the adenylate cyclase system in human colonic mucosa were tested. 16,16-dimethyl-prostaglandin E2 and 15-(S)-methyl-prostaglandin E2 increased the cyclase system in a dose-related manner. Maximal stimulation (about 250%) of enzyme activity occurred at a prostaglandin analogue concentration of 0.1 g/l. Diarrhea seen in patients treated with these orally effective prostaglandin analogues might in part be explained by activation of large bowel adenylate cyclase which is supposed to play a key role in the secretory process in this organ.", "contents": "Activation of human large bowel adenylate cyclase by methylated prostaglandin E2 analogues. The effects of methylated analogues of prostaglandin E2 upon the adenylate cyclase system in human colonic mucosa were tested. 16,16-dimethyl-prostaglandin E2 and 15-(S)-methyl-prostaglandin E2 increased the cyclase system in a dose-related manner. Maximal stimulation (about 250%) of enzyme activity occurred at a prostaglandin analogue concentration of 0.1 g/l. Diarrhea seen in patients treated with these orally effective prostaglandin analogues might in part be explained by activation of large bowel adenylate cyclase which is supposed to play a key role in the secretory process in this organ.", "PMID": 459375} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13740", "title": "Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of allergen-specific IgG antibodies in bee sting allergic patients hyposensitized with pure bee venom.", "content": "An ELISA is presented for detection of IgG antibodies to bee venom. By this method, sera of 11 bee sting allergic patients, who were treated with rapid hyposensitization with pure bee venom, were tested. The highest antibody titers were observed after 30 days of treatment, a maximum rise of 7.4 +/- 1.5 log 2-titer steps. Pure bee venom is shown to be more potent immunologically than whole body bee extract. Prediction of the clinical success, measured by tolerance to a bee sting challenge, is not yet possible using venom specific IgG determinations.", "contents": "Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of allergen-specific IgG antibodies in bee sting allergic patients hyposensitized with pure bee venom. An ELISA is presented for detection of IgG antibodies to bee venom. By this method, sera of 11 bee sting allergic patients, who were treated with rapid hyposensitization with pure bee venom, were tested. The highest antibody titers were observed after 30 days of treatment, a maximum rise of 7.4 +/- 1.5 log 2-titer steps. Pure bee venom is shown to be more potent immunologically than whole body bee extract. Prediction of the clinical success, measured by tolerance to a bee sting challenge, is not yet possible using venom specific IgG determinations.", "PMID": 459376} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13741", "title": "[Water-salt metabolism in members of the crew of Saliut-4].", "content": "The paper presents the results of studying the fluid-electrolyte metabolism in P. I. Klimuk and V. I. Sevastyanov before and after their 63-day flight aboard the orbital station Salyut-4. Postflight weight losses in P.I. Klimuk and V.I. Sevastyanov were 5.6 and 3.5%, respectively, the losses being attributed to body dehydration. Postflight both cosmonauts showed a trend for an increased renal excretion of potassium, magnesium, and calcium as compared with their food intake. Those were more expressed on the day after the water load application. Possible causes of the changes and the pattern of recovery of fluid-electrolyte metabolism after a prolonged space flight are discussed.", "contents": "[Water-salt metabolism in members of the crew of Saliut-4]. The paper presents the results of studying the fluid-electrolyte metabolism in P. I. Klimuk and V. I. Sevastyanov before and after their 63-day flight aboard the orbital station Salyut-4. Postflight weight losses in P.I. Klimuk and V.I. Sevastyanov were 5.6 and 3.5%, respectively, the losses being attributed to body dehydration. Postflight both cosmonauts showed a trend for an increased renal excretion of potassium, magnesium, and calcium as compared with their food intake. Those were more expressed on the day after the water load application. Possible causes of the changes and the pattern of recovery of fluid-electrolyte metabolism after a prolonged space flight are discussed.", "PMID": 459395} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13742", "title": "[Regulation of the vertical posture after flights on the Saliut-4 orbital station].", "content": "Stabilographic examinations of the crewmembers of the orbital station Salyut-4 demonstrated that one of the most characteristic manifestations of posture-tonic deconditioning induced by a prolonged exposure to weightlessness was an emergence of high-frequency oscillations (with a cycle of 0.1--0.15 sec) of the common center of body gravity, the fraction of the oscillations decreasing during the first weeks of the postflight period. After flight all the crewmembers showed signs of postural hypotension: an increase in the cardiac rhythm and a decrease in the pulse arterial pressure.", "contents": "[Regulation of the vertical posture after flights on the Saliut-4 orbital station]. Stabilographic examinations of the crewmembers of the orbital station Salyut-4 demonstrated that one of the most characteristic manifestations of posture-tonic deconditioning induced by a prolonged exposure to weightlessness was an emergence of high-frequency oscillations (with a cycle of 0.1--0.15 sec) of the common center of body gravity, the fraction of the oscillations decreasing during the first weeks of the postflight period. After flight all the crewmembers showed signs of postural hypotension: an increase in the cardiac rhythm and a decrease in the pulse arterial pressure.", "PMID": 459396} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13743", "title": "[Intensity of DNA synthesis in animal organs after a flight on the Kosmos-782 biosatellite].", "content": "With respect to H3-thymidine incorporation the rate of DNA synthesis in the liver, spleen and thymus of rats was determined in flight and synchronous rats. Six hours post-flight the rate of H3-thymidine incorporation into the liver of flight rats did not differ from the normal (vivarium controls) and was 50% higher than in the synchronous rats. In the spleen and thymus of flight animals this parameter was 60 and 33% below the norm. Similar but less pronounced changes in the spleen were found in the synchronous rats. Twenty-five days postflight the rate of DNA synthesis in lymph organs recovered completely and tended to increase, whereas in the liver it remained significantly below the norm.", "contents": "[Intensity of DNA synthesis in animal organs after a flight on the Kosmos-782 biosatellite]. With respect to H3-thymidine incorporation the rate of DNA synthesis in the liver, spleen and thymus of rats was determined in flight and synchronous rats. Six hours post-flight the rate of H3-thymidine incorporation into the liver of flight rats did not differ from the normal (vivarium controls) and was 50% higher than in the synchronous rats. In the spleen and thymus of flight animals this parameter was 60 and 33% below the norm. Similar but less pronounced changes in the spleen were found in the synchronous rats. Twenty-five days postflight the rate of DNA synthesis in lymph organs recovered completely and tended to increase, whereas in the liver it remained significantly below the norm.", "PMID": 459398} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13744", "title": "[Human energy expenditures during a prolonged stay in a cyclically changing atmosphere].", "content": "The paper presents the results of studying man's gas exchange and energy expenditures as related to the composition of a cyclically changing environment of an altitude chamber. The experiments were carried out on a 24-hour basis. The paper gives the environmental parameters that physiologically were most adequate as the training factor. The respiratory reactions suggest that the enclosed environment used is suitable to prevent hypokinesia effects.", "contents": "[Human energy expenditures during a prolonged stay in a cyclically changing atmosphere]. The paper presents the results of studying man's gas exchange and energy expenditures as related to the composition of a cyclically changing environment of an altitude chamber. The experiments were carried out on a 24-hour basis. The paper gives the environmental parameters that physiologically were most adequate as the training factor. The respiratory reactions suggest that the enclosed environment used is suitable to prevent hypokinesia effects.", "PMID": 459399} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13745", "title": "[Electrolyte makeup of the blood plasma and skeletal muscles of rats after a flight on the Kosmos-690 biosatellite].", "content": "Measurements of Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations in the functionally different muscles (soleus, plantaris, diaphragm muscles) and plasma of the rats flown for 20.5 days aboard the biosatellite Cosmos-690 did not show any significant changes as compared with the controls. At the same time a decrease of the K+/Na+ ratio and a similar shift of Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations in plasma of irradiated rats as compared with these of non-irradiated animals demonstrated that the combined effects of space flight factors and gamma-irradiation influenced the system of ionic homeostasis in the blood. In the animals sacrificed on the R + 1 day the K+/Na+ ratio in the soleus muscle changed in favor of Na+ and in the plantaris muscle in favor of K+, and remained essentially unchanged in the diaphragm. The comparison of the flight experiments with the ground-based controls showed that ion changes in muscles occurred due to ionizing radiation rather than due to weightlessness.", "contents": "[Electrolyte makeup of the blood plasma and skeletal muscles of rats after a flight on the Kosmos-690 biosatellite]. Measurements of Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations in the functionally different muscles (soleus, plantaris, diaphragm muscles) and plasma of the rats flown for 20.5 days aboard the biosatellite Cosmos-690 did not show any significant changes as compared with the controls. At the same time a decrease of the K+/Na+ ratio and a similar shift of Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations in plasma of irradiated rats as compared with these of non-irradiated animals demonstrated that the combined effects of space flight factors and gamma-irradiation influenced the system of ionic homeostasis in the blood. In the animals sacrificed on the R + 1 day the K+/Na+ ratio in the soleus muscle changed in favor of Na+ and in the plantaris muscle in favor of K+, and remained essentially unchanged in the diaphragm. The comparison of the flight experiments with the ground-based controls showed that ion changes in muscles occurred due to ionizing radiation rather than due to weightlessness.", "PMID": 459397} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13746", "title": "[Characteristics of the effects of the midbrain reticular formation on the heart and respiration in exposure to centripetal accelerations].", "content": "Experiments were carried out on white rats and rabbits exposed to transverse accelerations of 6--10 g for 5 min. Before, during and after centrifugation the reticular formation of the midbrain underwent high-frequency electric stimulation. During centrifugation the inhibitory effects of the reticular formation on the cardiorespiratory rhythm decreased, whereas stimulatory effects either remained unchanged or increased.", "contents": "[Characteristics of the effects of the midbrain reticular formation on the heart and respiration in exposure to centripetal accelerations]. Experiments were carried out on white rats and rabbits exposed to transverse accelerations of 6--10 g for 5 min. Before, during and after centrifugation the reticular formation of the midbrain underwent high-frequency electric stimulation. During centrifugation the inhibitory effects of the reticular formation on the cardiorespiratory rhythm decreased, whereas stimulatory effects either remained unchanged or increased.", "PMID": 459400} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13747", "title": "[Ultrastructure of the lymph nodes of dogs under prolonged external gamma irradiation].", "content": "The purpose of the present investigation was electron microscopy study of lymph nodes of dogs exposed to chronic gamma-irradiation during 6 years (with a total dose of 125 rad/year). The exposure induced changes in the cell composition of the paracortical regions due to a decrease of the count of small lymphocytes and a predominant increase of young blast cells with an altered ultrastructure. Chronic gamma-irradiation led to an increase of the number of plasma cells and emergence of intermediate cell forms due to \"plasmatization\" of lymphocytes and reticular cells.", "contents": "[Ultrastructure of the lymph nodes of dogs under prolonged external gamma irradiation]. The purpose of the present investigation was electron microscopy study of lymph nodes of dogs exposed to chronic gamma-irradiation during 6 years (with a total dose of 125 rad/year). The exposure induced changes in the cell composition of the paracortical regions due to a decrease of the count of small lymphocytes and a predominant increase of young blast cells with an altered ultrastructure. Chronic gamma-irradiation led to an increase of the number of plasma cells and emergence of intermediate cell forms due to \"plasmatization\" of lymphocytes and reticular cells.", "PMID": 459403} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13748", "title": "[Significance of the vibration component in the injurious action of impact acceleration].", "content": "Animal experiments demonstrated that damped oscillations of the support construction induced by impact accelerations enhanced their damaging effect on dogs. Within the frequency range tested--from 20 to 178 Hz--the threshold of lesions of the lungs, heart and liver decreased and reached 34% at a frequency of 85 Hz. The level of liver lesions was inversely proportional to the frequency of the support oscillations. Lesions of the lungs and the heart were more expressed at 85 Hz and decreased with an increase or a decrease of the oscillation frequency. At a frequency of 130--176 Hz the effect of the vibration component was not seen.", "contents": "[Significance of the vibration component in the injurious action of impact acceleration]. Animal experiments demonstrated that damped oscillations of the support construction induced by impact accelerations enhanced their damaging effect on dogs. Within the frequency range tested--from 20 to 178 Hz--the threshold of lesions of the lungs, heart and liver decreased and reached 34% at a frequency of 85 Hz. The level of liver lesions was inversely proportional to the frequency of the support oscillations. Lesions of the lungs and the heart were more expressed at 85 Hz and decreased with an increase or a decrease of the oscillation frequency. At a frequency of 130--176 Hz the effect of the vibration component was not seen.", "PMID": 459401} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13749", "title": "[Tasks in planning biological experiments].", "content": "The paper describes certain cases of using mathematical methods in the planning of biological experiments. The paper presents an algorithm of the distribution of the experimental data based on dynamic programming. The paper discusses an application of computer-aided calculations for the formation of homogeneous groups of experimental and control tests.", "contents": "[Tasks in planning biological experiments]. The paper describes certain cases of using mathematical methods in the planning of biological experiments. The paper presents an algorithm of the distribution of the experimental data based on dynamic programming. The paper discusses an application of computer-aided calculations for the formation of homogeneous groups of experimental and control tests.", "PMID": 459404} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13750", "title": "Effect of sequential bleeding on body weight gain in rats.", "content": "Monthly withdrawal of a total of 1.25--2.0 ml of blood from young, mature, inbred Fischer 344 rats produced no noticeable effects on common hematologic parameters, but it did cause a decrease in the rate of body weight gain. The difference in body weight between rats bled and not bled was evident 3 weeks after the study began, and the difference persisted throughout the 23-week study.", "contents": "Effect of sequential bleeding on body weight gain in rats. Monthly withdrawal of a total of 1.25--2.0 ml of blood from young, mature, inbred Fischer 344 rats produced no noticeable effects on common hematologic parameters, but it did cause a decrease in the rate of body weight gain. The difference in body weight between rats bled and not bled was evident 3 weeks after the study began, and the difference persisted throughout the 23-week study.", "PMID": 459412} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13751", "title": "[Effect of motion sickness on the absorption of B group vitamins and ascorbic acid in the small intestine of dogs].", "content": "On the dogs with a Thiry-Pavlov fistula (an isolated loop of the small intestine) the effect of 30-min acceleration on the absorption of thiamine-bromide, riboflavine, pyridoxine-hydrochloride and ascorbic acid as well as on the gastric juice secretion was studied. It was demonstrated that back-to-forth linear acceleration increased vitamin B1 absorption, decreased vitamins B2 and B6 and ascorbic acid absorption, and altered secretion of gastric juice.", "contents": "[Effect of motion sickness on the absorption of B group vitamins and ascorbic acid in the small intestine of dogs]. On the dogs with a Thiry-Pavlov fistula (an isolated loop of the small intestine) the effect of 30-min acceleration on the absorption of thiamine-bromide, riboflavine, pyridoxine-hydrochloride and ascorbic acid as well as on the gastric juice secretion was studied. It was demonstrated that back-to-forth linear acceleration increased vitamin B1 absorption, decreased vitamins B2 and B6 and ascorbic acid absorption, and altered secretion of gastric juice.", "PMID": 459402} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13752", "title": "Recovery rate of the cardiovascular system in rabbits following short-term halothane anesthesia.", "content": "Mean arterial pressure, cardiac output and heart rate were determined in eight male New Zealand white rabbits while conscious and after being anesthetized with halothane plus nitrous oxide for 15 minutes. Delivery of the anesthetic agent was stopped and the measurement repeated at 15, 30, 60 and 210 minutes. In a separate experiment blood samples were obtained for plasma renin activity in six rabbits before anesthesia, after 15 minutes of halothane plus nitrous oxide administration, and again 210 minutes after cessation of the anesthesia. Later, this experiment was repeated with the same rabbits except that they were allowed to breathe room air instead of the anesthesia. The halothane anesthesia resulted in decreased mean arterial pressure and cardiac output, but these returned to the preanesthetic levels by 15 minutes after stopping the anesthesia. Heart rate increased during halothane administration, and although it tended to return toward control levels after cessation of the halothane, heart rate was still elevated 210 minutes later. Halothane plus nitrous oxide produced an increase in plasma renin activity, which then subsided to normal by 210 minutes following anesthesia; breathing room air did not result in increases in plasma renin activity. These studies revealed that although short-term anesthesia with halothane plus nitrous oxide resulted in cardiovascular changes in rabbits, after cessation of the anesthetic agent the cardiovascular system quickly returned to normal.", "contents": "Recovery rate of the cardiovascular system in rabbits following short-term halothane anesthesia. Mean arterial pressure, cardiac output and heart rate were determined in eight male New Zealand white rabbits while conscious and after being anesthetized with halothane plus nitrous oxide for 15 minutes. Delivery of the anesthetic agent was stopped and the measurement repeated at 15, 30, 60 and 210 minutes. In a separate experiment blood samples were obtained for plasma renin activity in six rabbits before anesthesia, after 15 minutes of halothane plus nitrous oxide administration, and again 210 minutes after cessation of the anesthesia. Later, this experiment was repeated with the same rabbits except that they were allowed to breathe room air instead of the anesthesia. The halothane anesthesia resulted in decreased mean arterial pressure and cardiac output, but these returned to the preanesthetic levels by 15 minutes after stopping the anesthesia. Heart rate increased during halothane administration, and although it tended to return toward control levels after cessation of the halothane, heart rate was still elevated 210 minutes later. Halothane plus nitrous oxide produced an increase in plasma renin activity, which then subsided to normal by 210 minutes following anesthesia; breathing room air did not result in increases in plasma renin activity. These studies revealed that although short-term anesthesia with halothane plus nitrous oxide resulted in cardiovascular changes in rabbits, after cessation of the anesthetic agent the cardiovascular system quickly returned to normal.", "PMID": 459413} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13753", "title": "Cardiovascular function in anesthetized miniature swine.", "content": "Miniature swine anesthetized with pentobarbital were studied with respect to their cardiovascular function under control conditions and in response to catecholamines, baroreceptor inhibition, bilateral vagotomy and vagal nerve stimulation. Measurements included aortic pressure, heart rate, intraventricular pressure and its maximum rate of rise during contraction, carotid blood flow and resistance, femoral blood flow and resistance, and renal blood flow and resistance. The cardiovascular actions of norepinephrine, epiniphrine and isoproterenol were similar to those in other mammals, and the adrenergic receptor mechanisms also were susceptible to blockade with phentolamine or propranolol. Inhibition of the carotid baroreceptors was accompanied by elevation of aortic pressure, reflex bradycardia and increased femoral and renal resistances. Bileteral vagotomy was followed by hypertension, tachycardia and increased renal resistance. Changes in femoral resistance to these procedures differed between the two strains of miniature swine studied. Stimulation of the peripheral end of either vagus nerve was accompanied by bradycardia without hypotension.", "contents": "Cardiovascular function in anesthetized miniature swine. Miniature swine anesthetized with pentobarbital were studied with respect to their cardiovascular function under control conditions and in response to catecholamines, baroreceptor inhibition, bilateral vagotomy and vagal nerve stimulation. Measurements included aortic pressure, heart rate, intraventricular pressure and its maximum rate of rise during contraction, carotid blood flow and resistance, femoral blood flow and resistance, and renal blood flow and resistance. The cardiovascular actions of norepinephrine, epiniphrine and isoproterenol were similar to those in other mammals, and the adrenergic receptor mechanisms also were susceptible to blockade with phentolamine or propranolol. Inhibition of the carotid baroreceptors was accompanied by elevation of aortic pressure, reflex bradycardia and increased femoral and renal resistances. Bileteral vagotomy was followed by hypertension, tachycardia and increased renal resistance. Changes in femoral resistance to these procedures differed between the two strains of miniature swine studied. Stimulation of the peripheral end of either vagus nerve was accompanied by bradycardia without hypotension.", "PMID": 459414} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13754", "title": "A natural outbreak of transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia in A/J mice.", "content": "Transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia was diagnosed in 6-month-old A/J mice kept under standard laboratory conditions. Bacterial cultures revealed the presence of Citrobacter freundii (4280). Clinical signs included rough coats, feces adhering to the anus, slight dehydration and rectal prolapses. A nonclotting sanquinous intestinal fluid and gross colonic thickening were frequently seen at necropsy. Morbidity was approximately 50%; mortality approximately 25%. Tetracycline appeared to be effective in controlling the disease.", "contents": "A natural outbreak of transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia in A/J mice. Transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia was diagnosed in 6-month-old A/J mice kept under standard laboratory conditions. Bacterial cultures revealed the presence of Citrobacter freundii (4280). Clinical signs included rough coats, feces adhering to the anus, slight dehydration and rectal prolapses. A nonclotting sanquinous intestinal fluid and gross colonic thickening were frequently seen at necropsy. Morbidity was approximately 50%; mortality approximately 25%. Tetracycline appeared to be effective in controlling the disease.", "PMID": 459415} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13755", "title": "An unusual neoplasm of adipose tissue in a rat.", "content": "The light microscopic features of a spontaneous neoplasm of adipose tissue from a rat were suggestive of a mixed liposarcoma with a myxoid matrix. However, ultrastructurally, the cell characteristics were those of a hibernoma. These characteristics included cells containing lipid droplets of variable size, numberous pleomorphic mitochondria and close apposition to blood vessels. Lipofuscin granules and subplasmalemmal condensations were not observed ultrastructurally.", "contents": "An unusual neoplasm of adipose tissue in a rat. The light microscopic features of a spontaneous neoplasm of adipose tissue from a rat were suggestive of a mixed liposarcoma with a myxoid matrix. However, ultrastructurally, the cell characteristics were those of a hibernoma. These characteristics included cells containing lipid droplets of variable size, numberous pleomorphic mitochondria and close apposition to blood vessels. Lipofuscin granules and subplasmalemmal condensations were not observed ultrastructurally.", "PMID": 459416} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13756", "title": "Comparison of pyloric ligation and pyloric cuff techniques for collecting gastric secretion in the rat.", "content": "A comparison was made between two methods for collecting gastric secretion in the rat. The two included a pyloric ligation technique and a snare-type pyloric cuff which was surgically implanted 2 weeks before the collection was initiated. It was hypothesized that the surgical trauma associated with pyloric ligation would inhibit gastric secretion and thus yield smaller gastric samples with this procedure as compared to the cuff technique. No differences in volume of gastric secretion or total acid output were observed between the two methods.", "contents": "Comparison of pyloric ligation and pyloric cuff techniques for collecting gastric secretion in the rat. A comparison was made between two methods for collecting gastric secretion in the rat. The two included a pyloric ligation technique and a snare-type pyloric cuff which was surgically implanted 2 weeks before the collection was initiated. It was hypothesized that the surgical trauma associated with pyloric ligation would inhibit gastric secretion and thus yield smaller gastric samples with this procedure as compared to the cuff technique. No differences in volume of gastric secretion or total acid output were observed between the two methods.", "PMID": 459417} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13757", "title": "[Venous blood circulation in the crew of the Saliut-5 orbital station].", "content": "Studies of venous circulation were continued in the space crewmembers of the orbital station Salyut-5. New data which demonstrated again that weightlessness induced symptoms specifically assoicated with blood redistribution and pressure increase in the jugular veins were obtained. It is suggested to further the studies of venous circulation and regional hemodynamics aimed at determining the time and degree of human body adaptation to weightlessness.", "contents": "[Venous blood circulation in the crew of the Saliut-5 orbital station]. Studies of venous circulation were continued in the space crewmembers of the orbital station Salyut-5. New data which demonstrated again that weightlessness induced symptoms specifically assoicated with blood redistribution and pressure increase in the jugular veins were obtained. It is suggested to further the studies of venous circulation and regional hemodynamics aimed at determining the time and degree of human body adaptation to weightlessness.", "PMID": 459406} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13758", "title": "Multiple biopsies of guinea pig mammary glands during pregnancy and lactation.", "content": "Mammary gland biopsies were obtained from 39 guinea pigs during late pregnancy, lactation and weaning. Up to eight samples, each weighing 60--200 mg, were taken from each animal in two independent studies. No mortalities resulted, and no interference with lactation or suckling was observed.", "contents": "Multiple biopsies of guinea pig mammary glands during pregnancy and lactation. Mammary gland biopsies were obtained from 39 guinea pigs during late pregnancy, lactation and weaning. Up to eight samples, each weighing 60--200 mg, were taken from each animal in two independent studies. No mortalities resulted, and no interference with lactation or suckling was observed.", "PMID": 459418} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13759", "title": "Surgical exposure of the optic nerve in the guinea pig.", "content": "A lateral orbitotomy approach was used to surgically expose the optic nerve in the guinea pig. This approach was excellent for experimental access to the optic nerve with minimal trauma to the eye.", "contents": "Surgical exposure of the optic nerve in the guinea pig. A lateral orbitotomy approach was used to surgically expose the optic nerve in the guinea pig. This approach was excellent for experimental access to the optic nerve with minimal trauma to the eye.", "PMID": 459419} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13760", "title": "A semiautomated procedure for rapid intrarectal instillation of fluids in the guinea pig.", "content": "A penumatic operated semiautomatic system was developed for the intrarectal instillation of solutions in the guinea pig. The apparatus permitted one person to inject large numbers of animals at considerable savings in time compared to manually operated syringe techniques. The procedure was shown to be both rapid and safe for administering solutions intrarectally in the guinea pig.", "contents": "A semiautomated procedure for rapid intrarectal instillation of fluids in the guinea pig. A penumatic operated semiautomatic system was developed for the intrarectal instillation of solutions in the guinea pig. The apparatus permitted one person to inject large numbers of animals at considerable savings in time compared to manually operated syringe techniques. The procedure was shown to be both rapid and safe for administering solutions intrarectally in the guinea pig.", "PMID": 459420} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13761", "title": "Urolithiasis in ferrets (Mustela putorius).", "content": "Urinary calculi was observed frequently in ferrets which were from a group used for influenza research. They were submitted for necropsy with various clinical signs. The calculi were composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate and were found in the pelvis of the kidney, urinary bladder and urethra. Crystals of undetermined nature occasionally were observed in the kidneys.", "contents": "Urolithiasis in ferrets (Mustela putorius). Urinary calculi was observed frequently in ferrets which were from a group used for influenza research. They were submitted for necropsy with various clinical signs. The calculi were composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate and were found in the pelvis of the kidney, urinary bladder and urethra. Crystals of undetermined nature occasionally were observed in the kidneys.", "PMID": 459421} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13762", "title": "Determination of body surface area in neonatal swine.", "content": "The body surface area of 30 neonatal pigs of both sexes, weighing 445--1,976 g, were determined by the direct skinning technique. The range of measured body surface area values was 635--1,400 cm2 (mean = 895.1 cm2). The regression line, fitted to a scatter diagram and calculated by the least square method, was found to be Y = 337.2 + 0.553X; where X was body weight expressed in grams and Y was body surface area expressed in square centimeters.", "contents": "Determination of body surface area in neonatal swine. The body surface area of 30 neonatal pigs of both sexes, weighing 445--1,976 g, were determined by the direct skinning technique. The range of measured body surface area values was 635--1,400 cm2 (mean = 895.1 cm2). The regression line, fitted to a scatter diagram and calculated by the least square method, was found to be Y = 337.2 + 0.553X; where X was body weight expressed in grams and Y was body surface area expressed in square centimeters.", "PMID": 459422} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13763", "title": "General anesthesia for newborn pigs.", "content": "A safe technique for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in newborn pigs was accomplished. After premedication with atropine sulphate, anesthesia was induced by giving a mixture of oxygen, nitrous oxide and 2.5% halothane introduced by face mask. An endotracheal tube was inserted, and anesthesia was maintained using 0.5--1% halothane. Recovery was prompt, and there were no postoperative complications related to anesthesia.", "contents": "General anesthesia for newborn pigs. A safe technique for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in newborn pigs was accomplished. After premedication with atropine sulphate, anesthesia was induced by giving a mixture of oxygen, nitrous oxide and 2.5% halothane introduced by face mask. An endotracheal tube was inserted, and anesthesia was maintained using 0.5--1% halothane. Recovery was prompt, and there were no postoperative complications related to anesthesia.", "PMID": 459423} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13764", "title": "A simple, reliable and inexpensive method for the collection of rat urine.", "content": "Aluminum foil attached to the bottom of hanging-type rat cages approximately 10 cm from the front of the cage was used for collecting rat urine. Most urine samples were obtained within 1 hour of placing the rat in the cage.", "contents": "A simple, reliable and inexpensive method for the collection of rat urine. Aluminum foil attached to the bottom of hanging-type rat cages approximately 10 cm from the front of the cage was used for collecting rat urine. Most urine samples were obtained within 1 hour of placing the rat in the cage.", "PMID": 459424} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13765", "title": "Rodent housing units for field studies.", "content": "Rodent housing and nesting units were constructed from acrylic and provided with concrete tops. These hexagonal units, placed in a wooded field, were inhabited by deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). The use of the field housing units provided an effective method for observing free-ranging wild rodents.", "contents": "Rodent housing units for field studies. Rodent housing and nesting units were constructed from acrylic and provided with concrete tops. These hexagonal units, placed in a wooded field, were inhabited by deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). The use of the field housing units provided an effective method for observing free-ranging wild rodents.", "PMID": 459426} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13766", "title": "Accelerated serum sickness in the rabbit. IV. Characteristic endarteritis in the pulmonary artery.", "content": "A unique angiitis developing in acute serum sickness in the rabbit was studied by immunofluorescence and light microscopy and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The angiitis occurred predominantly in the pulmonary artery and was characterized by a prominent accumulation of monocytes in the subendothelial space. During the early stage, scanning electron microscopy revealed the occurrence of various endothelial alterations, especially the formation of many endothelial holes leading to a subendothelial emigration of monocytes. There was neither emigration of polymorphs nor significant thrombotic lesion, and it is possible that this was due to a paucity in the amount of immune complexes deposited. The monocytes ingested platelets and fibrin, suggesting their preventive role in the development of thrombotic changes. The intimal change resolved within several days, leaving only slight fibrosis. A distinct resemblance in the disease process between this type of angiitis and acute serum sickness nephritis is emphasized.", "contents": "Accelerated serum sickness in the rabbit. IV. Characteristic endarteritis in the pulmonary artery. A unique angiitis developing in acute serum sickness in the rabbit was studied by immunofluorescence and light microscopy and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The angiitis occurred predominantly in the pulmonary artery and was characterized by a prominent accumulation of monocytes in the subendothelial space. During the early stage, scanning electron microscopy revealed the occurrence of various endothelial alterations, especially the formation of many endothelial holes leading to a subendothelial emigration of monocytes. There was neither emigration of polymorphs nor significant thrombotic lesion, and it is possible that this was due to a paucity in the amount of immune complexes deposited. The monocytes ingested platelets and fibrin, suggesting their preventive role in the development of thrombotic changes. The intimal change resolved within several days, leaving only slight fibrosis. A distinct resemblance in the disease process between this type of angiitis and acute serum sickness nephritis is emphasized.", "PMID": 459428} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13767", "title": "Cell stroma interactions in aortic endothelial cell cultures.", "content": "The behavior of bovine aortic endothelial cell cultures indicates that they interact with the extracellular materials they produce. In nonconfluent cultures the basal part of the cell is oriented on the plastic of the culture dish with the apex facing the culture medium. At confluence, fibrillar and ruthenium red-stained material, partly proteoglycan in nature, appears beneath the cells. In older cultures, a second layer of endothelial cells grows beneath the original one next to the plastic. This layer is oriented differently, being inverted in that the apex of the cells points to the plastic and the base toward secreted extracellular materials. Because of this orientation, cells tend to peel off the dish. The morphologic sequences thus suggest that polarity of endothelial cells in culture depends on its environment, with a hierarchy of polarity. In the absence of matrix materials, orientation is determined by the plastic. When extracellular materials form, endothelial cells then orient on them. Thus, the cells appear to manufacture and secrete the molecules on which their topography depends. Smooth muscle cells from the same bovine aortas do not seem to have this polarity. Glycosaminoglycans synthesized by the two cell types also differ.", "contents": "Cell stroma interactions in aortic endothelial cell cultures. The behavior of bovine aortic endothelial cell cultures indicates that they interact with the extracellular materials they produce. In nonconfluent cultures the basal part of the cell is oriented on the plastic of the culture dish with the apex facing the culture medium. At confluence, fibrillar and ruthenium red-stained material, partly proteoglycan in nature, appears beneath the cells. In older cultures, a second layer of endothelial cells grows beneath the original one next to the plastic. This layer is oriented differently, being inverted in that the apex of the cells points to the plastic and the base toward secreted extracellular materials. Because of this orientation, cells tend to peel off the dish. The morphologic sequences thus suggest that polarity of endothelial cells in culture depends on its environment, with a hierarchy of polarity. In the absence of matrix materials, orientation is determined by the plastic. When extracellular materials form, endothelial cells then orient on them. Thus, the cells appear to manufacture and secrete the molecules on which their topography depends. Smooth muscle cells from the same bovine aortas do not seem to have this polarity. Glycosaminoglycans synthesized by the two cell types also differ.", "PMID": 459429} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13768", "title": "Ultrastructural localization of complex carbohydrates in rat monocytes and peritoneal and alveolar macrophages.", "content": "Complex carbohydrates are demonstrated in lysosomes and other organelles of rat monocytes and macrophages by means of ultrastructural morphochemical techniques for localizing acidic groups and vicinal glycols that are characteristic of glycoconjugates. The presence of glycoconjugates in various cell organelles differ in monocytes and macrophages from different sites. Bone marrow and blood monocytes contained glycoproteins with periodate-reactive vicinal glycols, as shown by the periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate sequence in lysosomes, a population of small vesicular structures, and Golgi lamellae. However, these cells contained no dialyzed iron or high iron diamine reactivity indicative of acidic groups. Alveolar macrophages were similarly periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate-reactive, and contained a variable degree of dialyzed iron and high iron diamine reactivity demonstrative of acid mucosubstances in lysosomes. Peritoneal macrophages, on the other hand, exhibited highly reactive lysosomes with all three techniques, and revealed a population of periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate-positive vesicles not previously recognized and not readily discernable by other means. These cells also displayed periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate staining in large cisternal elements, possibly related to Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosome (GERL) and in other Golgi complex-related elements, as well as in cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum.", "contents": "Ultrastructural localization of complex carbohydrates in rat monocytes and peritoneal and alveolar macrophages. Complex carbohydrates are demonstrated in lysosomes and other organelles of rat monocytes and macrophages by means of ultrastructural morphochemical techniques for localizing acidic groups and vicinal glycols that are characteristic of glycoconjugates. The presence of glycoconjugates in various cell organelles differ in monocytes and macrophages from different sites. Bone marrow and blood monocytes contained glycoproteins with periodate-reactive vicinal glycols, as shown by the periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate sequence in lysosomes, a population of small vesicular structures, and Golgi lamellae. However, these cells contained no dialyzed iron or high iron diamine reactivity indicative of acidic groups. Alveolar macrophages were similarly periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate-reactive, and contained a variable degree of dialyzed iron and high iron diamine reactivity demonstrative of acid mucosubstances in lysosomes. Peritoneal macrophages, on the other hand, exhibited highly reactive lysosomes with all three techniques, and revealed a population of periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate-positive vesicles not previously recognized and not readily discernable by other means. These cells also displayed periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate staining in large cisternal elements, possibly related to Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosome (GERL) and in other Golgi complex-related elements, as well as in cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum.", "PMID": 459430} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13769", "title": "Ultrastructural study of nephritis induced in Brown Norway rats by mercuric chloride.", "content": "Chronic intoxication by mercuric chloride induces a two-phased nephropathy in Brown Norway rats characterized at first by a linear fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibody, then by a granular arteriolar and glomerular fixation of IgG superimposed on the linear one. On the 8th and 9th days, concomitant with the glomerular fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies, electron microscopy studies demonstrated an influx of monocytes into the glomerular and interstitial capillaries and a focal detachment of the glomerular endothelial cells. On the 14th and 15th days, subendothelial heterogeneous material and scattered subepithelial deposits appeared in glomeruli. By the 60th day, no cellular infiltration nor glomerular endothelial alterations persisted. Subepithelial glomerular deposits were seen in half of the animals, and abnormal deposits situated between muscular cells of the arteriolar walls were seen in all of them. These observations suggest that the glomerular fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies induces transient alterations of the inner aspect of the glomerular capillary wall. Arteriolar and subepithelial glomerular deposits confirm the idea that an immune-complex disease replaces the antiglomerular basement membrane antibody-mediated process. The morphologic expression of the transition between these two mechanisms is evident around the 15th day.", "contents": "Ultrastructural study of nephritis induced in Brown Norway rats by mercuric chloride. Chronic intoxication by mercuric chloride induces a two-phased nephropathy in Brown Norway rats characterized at first by a linear fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibody, then by a granular arteriolar and glomerular fixation of IgG superimposed on the linear one. On the 8th and 9th days, concomitant with the glomerular fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies, electron microscopy studies demonstrated an influx of monocytes into the glomerular and interstitial capillaries and a focal detachment of the glomerular endothelial cells. On the 14th and 15th days, subendothelial heterogeneous material and scattered subepithelial deposits appeared in glomeruli. By the 60th day, no cellular infiltration nor glomerular endothelial alterations persisted. Subepithelial glomerular deposits were seen in half of the animals, and abnormal deposits situated between muscular cells of the arteriolar walls were seen in all of them. These observations suggest that the glomerular fixation of antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies induces transient alterations of the inner aspect of the glomerular capillary wall. Arteriolar and subepithelial glomerular deposits confirm the idea that an immune-complex disease replaces the antiglomerular basement membrane antibody-mediated process. The morphologic expression of the transition between these two mechanisms is evident around the 15th day.", "PMID": 459431} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13770", "title": "Characterization of lipid-laden aortic cells from cholesterol-fed rabbits. III. Intracellular localization of cholesterol and cholesteryl ester.", "content": "The subcellular sites of accumulation of cholesterol and cholesteryl esters in rabbit atheromatous cells, were investigated by morphologic and biochemical techniques. Electron microscopy of lipid-filled cells in situ in atheromatous aortas of cholesterol-fed rabbits revealed lipid accumulation in the cytoplasm as lipid droplets and within lysosomes in the form of lipid globules, membranous whorls, and crystals. When such cells were isolated from the rabbit aortas by enzymic digestion, and then treated with Flickinger's aldehyde fixative containing 0.2 per cent digitonin, characteristic digitonide-lipid complexes (\"spicules\") were observed in discrete sites of the cytoplasm distinct from the cytoplasmic droplets. If these cells were first stained cytochemically for acid phosphatase and then treated with digitonin-aldehyde fixative, enzyme reaction product was found associated with the spicules indicating that the lysosomes of the atheromatous cells possess digitonin-reactive lipid. Subcellular fractionation of isolated rabbit aortic foam cells by sucrose density gradient centrifugation demonstrated the coequilibration of most of the intracellular unesterified cholesterol with low density lysosomes. Some cholesteryl ester was also associated with low density lysosomes, although most was found in a lipid droplet fraction of very low density. Together the results indicate that in rabbit atheromatous cells, lysosomes are the site of accumulation of intracellular cholesterol in excess of that structurally associated with membranes and that both cytoplasmic droplets and lysosomes are depot sites for cholesteryl esters.", "contents": "Characterization of lipid-laden aortic cells from cholesterol-fed rabbits. III. Intracellular localization of cholesterol and cholesteryl ester. The subcellular sites of accumulation of cholesterol and cholesteryl esters in rabbit atheromatous cells, were investigated by morphologic and biochemical techniques. Electron microscopy of lipid-filled cells in situ in atheromatous aortas of cholesterol-fed rabbits revealed lipid accumulation in the cytoplasm as lipid droplets and within lysosomes in the form of lipid globules, membranous whorls, and crystals. When such cells were isolated from the rabbit aortas by enzymic digestion, and then treated with Flickinger's aldehyde fixative containing 0.2 per cent digitonin, characteristic digitonide-lipid complexes (\"spicules\") were observed in discrete sites of the cytoplasm distinct from the cytoplasmic droplets. If these cells were first stained cytochemically for acid phosphatase and then treated with digitonin-aldehyde fixative, enzyme reaction product was found associated with the spicules indicating that the lysosomes of the atheromatous cells possess digitonin-reactive lipid. Subcellular fractionation of isolated rabbit aortic foam cells by sucrose density gradient centrifugation demonstrated the coequilibration of most of the intracellular unesterified cholesterol with low density lysosomes. Some cholesteryl ester was also associated with low density lysosomes, although most was found in a lipid droplet fraction of very low density. Together the results indicate that in rabbit atheromatous cells, lysosomes are the site of accumulation of intracellular cholesterol in excess of that structurally associated with membranes and that both cytoplasmic droplets and lysosomes are depot sites for cholesteryl esters.", "PMID": 459432} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13771", "title": "The use of Reuber hepatoma cells for the study of a lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage factor: glucocorticoid-antagonizing factor.", "content": "Endotoxin-stimulated glucocorticoid-antagonizing factor (GAF) was assayed by its specific inhibition of hydrocortisone-induced synthesis of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase. Defined induction of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase synthesis in hydrocortisone-treated rat hepatoma cells permitted reliable quantitation of GAF and analysis of the mechanism of cortisol antagonism. GAF was present maximally in serum 2 hours after endotoxin challenge in mice; however, GAF production could be suppressed by pretreating mice with indomethacin or cortisol. Endotoxin-tolerant mice were also nonresponsive to endotoxin-stimulated GAF production. Gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 resolved four regions of glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity in serum from endotoxin-poisoned mice, two of which were not present in normal serum. Cortisol antagonism by GAF resembled that of insulin; however, insulin differed from GAF in its ability to antagonize dibutyryl cyclic AMP. Unlike insulin, endotoxin-induced serum glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity was heat-labile at 70 degrees C. GAF antagonism of hydrocortisone was partially reversible but did not act in a competitive manner. Production of hepatoma growth inhibitory activity and glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity in serum were closely associated, indicating a common methanism for their generation.", "contents": "The use of Reuber hepatoma cells for the study of a lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage factor: glucocorticoid-antagonizing factor. Endotoxin-stimulated glucocorticoid-antagonizing factor (GAF) was assayed by its specific inhibition of hydrocortisone-induced synthesis of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase. Defined induction of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase synthesis in hydrocortisone-treated rat hepatoma cells permitted reliable quantitation of GAF and analysis of the mechanism of cortisol antagonism. GAF was present maximally in serum 2 hours after endotoxin challenge in mice; however, GAF production could be suppressed by pretreating mice with indomethacin or cortisol. Endotoxin-tolerant mice were also nonresponsive to endotoxin-stimulated GAF production. Gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 resolved four regions of glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity in serum from endotoxin-poisoned mice, two of which were not present in normal serum. Cortisol antagonism by GAF resembled that of insulin; however, insulin differed from GAF in its ability to antagonize dibutyryl cyclic AMP. Unlike insulin, endotoxin-induced serum glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity was heat-labile at 70 degrees C. GAF antagonism of hydrocortisone was partially reversible but did not act in a competitive manner. Production of hepatoma growth inhibitory activity and glucocorticoid-antagonizing activity in serum were closely associated, indicating a common methanism for their generation.", "PMID": 459433} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13772", "title": "Morphology of the hemostatic plug in human skin wounds: transformation of the plug.", "content": "The transformation of hemostatic plugs in human skin wounds was studied in vivo after bleeding had stopped. Standardized bleeding time incisions were made on the dorsal side of the forearm of four normal male volunteers. The wounds were excised by punch biopsy 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 2 hours after they had been made and studied by light and electron microscopy. The wounds were filled with red blood cells, and a network of fibrin strands was found in the wound, particularly near transected vessels. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes were encountered within transected vessels and at 2 hours also in the wounds and in concentric rings around the vessels up to 0.5 mm. from the wound. On top of the wounds a superficial scab, consisting of red blood cells and presumably air-dried proteins, had formed. Hemostatic plugs were found at the ends of transected blood vessels. At 10 minutes the plugs consisted of largely degranulated platelets which showed strong interdigitation. Fibrin was still absent from the center of the plugs. At 30 minutes the platelets became less densely packed, and small fibrin fibers were deposited between the platelets in large peripheral areas of the plugs. At 2 hours some of the platelets had assumed rounded shapes with few interdigitations and larger spaces between them. Areas in the plug with platelets that had lost their integrity alternated with areas where platelets still had their cytoplasmic matrix and were interdigitated. Fibrin fibers were especially demonstrable between the degenerated platelet vesicles. This occurred everywhere in small hemostatic plugs and in the periphery of larger plugs. In one individual it was also observed in the center of large hemostatic plugs. In the other individuals fibrin was present centrally as amorphous dark staining material which was fibrillar in tangential sections.", "contents": "Morphology of the hemostatic plug in human skin wounds: transformation of the plug. The transformation of hemostatic plugs in human skin wounds was studied in vivo after bleeding had stopped. Standardized bleeding time incisions were made on the dorsal side of the forearm of four normal male volunteers. The wounds were excised by punch biopsy 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 2 hours after they had been made and studied by light and electron microscopy. The wounds were filled with red blood cells, and a network of fibrin strands was found in the wound, particularly near transected vessels. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes were encountered within transected vessels and at 2 hours also in the wounds and in concentric rings around the vessels up to 0.5 mm. from the wound. On top of the wounds a superficial scab, consisting of red blood cells and presumably air-dried proteins, had formed. Hemostatic plugs were found at the ends of transected blood vessels. At 10 minutes the plugs consisted of largely degranulated platelets which showed strong interdigitation. Fibrin was still absent from the center of the plugs. At 30 minutes the platelets became less densely packed, and small fibrin fibers were deposited between the platelets in large peripheral areas of the plugs. At 2 hours some of the platelets had assumed rounded shapes with few interdigitations and larger spaces between them. Areas in the plug with platelets that had lost their integrity alternated with areas where platelets still had their cytoplasmic matrix and were interdigitated. Fibrin fibers were especially demonstrable between the degenerated platelet vesicles. This occurred everywhere in small hemostatic plugs and in the periphery of larger plugs. In one individual it was also observed in the center of large hemostatic plugs. In the other individuals fibrin was present centrally as amorphous dark staining material which was fibrillar in tangential sections.", "PMID": 459434} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13773", "title": "Analysis of transmembrane dynamics of cholera toxin using photoreactive probes.", "content": "Using sodium dodecyl sulfate--polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography, we have shown that 125I-labeled cholera toxin binds to Newcastle disease virus. Pretreatment of Newcastle disease virus with \"cold\" cholera toxin (at 37 degrees C for 30 minutes) inhibits the binding of 125I-labeled toxin in a subsequent incubation (at 37 degrees C for 30 minutes). These results suggest that cholera toxin binds to Newcastle disease virus in a specific manner. The precise receptor for toxin is unknown in Newcastle disease virus but it is presumed to be the ganglioside GM1. We have previously shown that the photoreactive probe 12-(4-azido-2-nitrophenoxy)stearoylglucosamine[1-14C] labels the membrane proteins of Newcastle disease virus. Since the reactive group of the probe, ie, N3, resides within the membrane bilayer, studies were initiated to determined which, if any, of the subunits of cholera toxin cross the membrane of Newcastle disease virus and become radioactively labeled upon photoactivation of the probe at 360 nm. After a 15-minute incubation of cholera toxin with Newcastle disease virus containing the photoreactive probe, irradiation effected the 14C-labeling of the active A1 subunit of cholera toxin. Irradiation of cholera toxin in solution with an equivalent amount of probe but without virus resulted in no labeling of toxin subunits.", "contents": "Analysis of transmembrane dynamics of cholera toxin using photoreactive probes. Using sodium dodecyl sulfate--polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography, we have shown that 125I-labeled cholera toxin binds to Newcastle disease virus. Pretreatment of Newcastle disease virus with \"cold\" cholera toxin (at 37 degrees C for 30 minutes) inhibits the binding of 125I-labeled toxin in a subsequent incubation (at 37 degrees C for 30 minutes). These results suggest that cholera toxin binds to Newcastle disease virus in a specific manner. The precise receptor for toxin is unknown in Newcastle disease virus but it is presumed to be the ganglioside GM1. We have previously shown that the photoreactive probe 12-(4-azido-2-nitrophenoxy)stearoylglucosamine[1-14C] labels the membrane proteins of Newcastle disease virus. Since the reactive group of the probe, ie, N3, resides within the membrane bilayer, studies were initiated to determined which, if any, of the subunits of cholera toxin cross the membrane of Newcastle disease virus and become radioactively labeled upon photoactivation of the probe at 360 nm. After a 15-minute incubation of cholera toxin with Newcastle disease virus containing the photoreactive probe, irradiation effected the 14C-labeling of the active A1 subunit of cholera toxin. Irradiation of cholera toxin in solution with an equivalent amount of probe but without virus resulted in no labeling of toxin subunits.", "PMID": 459511} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13774", "title": "Substructure of human erythrocyte spectrin.", "content": "The human erythrocyte structural protein spectrin and its subunits I, II were isolated in the presence of Na-dodecyl-sulfate by gel filtration and preparative gel electrophoresis. After removal of the detergent, spectrin alpha-helical content is comparable to spectrin isolated without detergent. Subunits I and II formed single bands in isoelectric focusing (pI = 5.6) and in Ornstein-Davis disc gel electrophoresis systems, indicating the individual subunits are homogenous in nature. The molecular weights of the subunits I and II, determined by Ferguson plot, are 237,500 and 238,600, respectively, which is in good agreement with values obtained by the standard SDS gel relative mobility method. Limited tryptic digestion of spectrin and two-dimensional peptide maps of the individual subunits cleaved by S-cyanylation reaction showed dissimilar patterns, suggesting differences in primary structure between the two subunits.", "contents": "Substructure of human erythrocyte spectrin. The human erythrocyte structural protein spectrin and its subunits I, II were isolated in the presence of Na-dodecyl-sulfate by gel filtration and preparative gel electrophoresis. After removal of the detergent, spectrin alpha-helical content is comparable to spectrin isolated without detergent. Subunits I and II formed single bands in isoelectric focusing (pI = 5.6) and in Ornstein-Davis disc gel electrophoresis systems, indicating the individual subunits are homogenous in nature. The molecular weights of the subunits I and II, determined by Ferguson plot, are 237,500 and 238,600, respectively, which is in good agreement with values obtained by the standard SDS gel relative mobility method. Limited tryptic digestion of spectrin and two-dimensional peptide maps of the individual subunits cleaved by S-cyanylation reaction showed dissimilar patterns, suggesting differences in primary structure between the two subunits.", "PMID": 459512} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13775", "title": "Role of bound water in biological membrane structure: fluorescence and infrared studies.", "content": "Bound water is a major component of biological membranes and is required for the structural stability of the lipid bilayer. It has also been postulated that it is involved in water transport, membrane fusion, and mobility of membrane proteins and lipids. We have measured the fluorescence emission of membrane-bound 1-anilino-8-naphthalenesulfonate (ANS) and the infrared spectra of membranes, both as a function of hydration. ANS fluorescence is sensitive to polarity and fluidity of the membrane-aqueous interface, while infrared absorption is sensitive to the hydrogen bonding and vibrational motion of water and membrane proteins and lipids. The fluorescence results provide evidence of increasing rigidity and/or decreasing polarity of the membrane-aqueous interface with removal of water. The membrane infrared spectra show prominent hydration-dependent changes in a number of bands with possible assignments to cholesterol (vinyl CH bend, OH stretch), protein (amide A, II, V), and bound water (OH stretch). Further characterization of the bound water should allow its incorporation into current models of membrane structure and give insight into the role of membrane hydration in cell surface function.", "contents": "Role of bound water in biological membrane structure: fluorescence and infrared studies. Bound water is a major component of biological membranes and is required for the structural stability of the lipid bilayer. It has also been postulated that it is involved in water transport, membrane fusion, and mobility of membrane proteins and lipids. We have measured the fluorescence emission of membrane-bound 1-anilino-8-naphthalenesulfonate (ANS) and the infrared spectra of membranes, both as a function of hydration. ANS fluorescence is sensitive to polarity and fluidity of the membrane-aqueous interface, while infrared absorption is sensitive to the hydrogen bonding and vibrational motion of water and membrane proteins and lipids. The fluorescence results provide evidence of increasing rigidity and/or decreasing polarity of the membrane-aqueous interface with removal of water. The membrane infrared spectra show prominent hydration-dependent changes in a number of bands with possible assignments to cholesterol (vinyl CH bend, OH stretch), protein (amide A, II, V), and bound water (OH stretch). Further characterization of the bound water should allow its incorporation into current models of membrane structure and give insight into the role of membrane hydration in cell surface function.", "PMID": 459513} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13776", "title": "Malignant mesothelioma presenting in the pleura and peritoneum.", "content": "Malignant mesothelioma presenting in the pleura and peritoneum is described in a middle-aged man. The patient lacked significant asbestos exposure which is not unexpected from both the clinical literature and animal inhalation tumor data. Computerized axial tomographic correlation is provided. Partial remission was achieved with the administration of adriamycin and DTIC.", "contents": "Malignant mesothelioma presenting in the pleura and peritoneum. Malignant mesothelioma presenting in the pleura and peritoneum is described in a middle-aged man. The patient lacked significant asbestos exposure which is not unexpected from both the clinical literature and animal inhalation tumor data. Computerized axial tomographic correlation is provided. Partial remission was achieved with the administration of adriamycin and DTIC.", "PMID": 459514} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13777", "title": "Metastases from carcinoma of mammary gland: an autopsy study.", "content": "Information on metastases from carcinoma of the mammary gland in an autopsy study of 707 cases occurring in white women over a 15-year period are presented and tabulated. Multiple primary cancers occurred in 19% of the cases. Of the 137 cases that exhibit more than one neoplastic malignancy, 31 (23%) were present in the contralateral mammary gland. Seventy patients had no metastasis from the mammary cancer at the time of death, and 55 of these patients had another cancer. Additional information has been added concerning the frequency of metastasis in parathyroid and thymus. When a parathyroid contains a metastasis, extensive metastases were noted in many organs and thus represents a late stage of the cancer.", "contents": "Metastases from carcinoma of mammary gland: an autopsy study. Information on metastases from carcinoma of the mammary gland in an autopsy study of 707 cases occurring in white women over a 15-year period are presented and tabulated. Multiple primary cancers occurred in 19% of the cases. Of the 137 cases that exhibit more than one neoplastic malignancy, 31 (23%) were present in the contralateral mammary gland. Seventy patients had no metastasis from the mammary cancer at the time of death, and 55 of these patients had another cancer. Additional information has been added concerning the frequency of metastasis in parathyroid and thymus. When a parathyroid contains a metastasis, extensive metastases were noted in many organs and thus represents a late stage of the cancer.", "PMID": 459515} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13778", "title": "Five-day continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil for advanced colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.", "content": "In a retrospective study, 58 patients with advanced colorectal carcinoma received one or more 5-day infusions of 5-FU at 20 mg/kg per 24 hours followed by weekly IV 5-FU at 15 mg/kg. In 36 patients who received the infusion as first treatment (Group A), the response rate was 23% with a median duration of response of 8.0 months. No improvement in survival was noted. In 22 patients treated with the infusion after relapse on weekly 5-FU (Group B), the response rate was 10.5% with a median duration response of 4.5 months. Stable disease for 3-6 months was seen in 21%. Survival in Group B was improved when compared with a similar group of patients treated by weekly 5-FU without infusion (Group CB), but statistical significance was not obtained. Twenty percent of patients were alive two years after relapsing on weekly 5-FU when given the five-day infusion 5-FU and re-initiated on weekly 5-FU. Toxicity to the five-day infusion of 5-FU was minimal. Three of 69 (4.3%) infusions were not completed because of toxicity. A separate review of procarbazine indicated that it was minimally active in colorectal carcinoma. Other patients with gastric and pancreatic carcinoma were reviewed but no statistical significance for 5-FU infusion was seen for survival. A five day continuous infusion of 5-FU is recommended for colorectal cancer patients who relapse on weekly 5-FU therapy. Further study of the infusion in combination with other chemotherapy is warranted.", "contents": "Five-day continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil for advanced colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In a retrospective study, 58 patients with advanced colorectal carcinoma received one or more 5-day infusions of 5-FU at 20 mg/kg per 24 hours followed by weekly IV 5-FU at 15 mg/kg. In 36 patients who received the infusion as first treatment (Group A), the response rate was 23% with a median duration of response of 8.0 months. No improvement in survival was noted. In 22 patients treated with the infusion after relapse on weekly 5-FU (Group B), the response rate was 10.5% with a median duration response of 4.5 months. Stable disease for 3-6 months was seen in 21%. Survival in Group B was improved when compared with a similar group of patients treated by weekly 5-FU without infusion (Group CB), but statistical significance was not obtained. Twenty percent of patients were alive two years after relapsing on weekly 5-FU when given the five-day infusion 5-FU and re-initiated on weekly 5-FU. Toxicity to the five-day infusion of 5-FU was minimal. Three of 69 (4.3%) infusions were not completed because of toxicity. A separate review of procarbazine indicated that it was minimally active in colorectal carcinoma. Other patients with gastric and pancreatic carcinoma were reviewed but no statistical significance for 5-FU infusion was seen for survival. A five day continuous infusion of 5-FU is recommended for colorectal cancer patients who relapse on weekly 5-FU therapy. Further study of the infusion in combination with other chemotherapy is warranted.", "PMID": 459516} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13779", "title": "Increased incidence of breast carcinoma in patients with irradiation for post-partum mastitis: a screening situation.", "content": "In Rochester, New York, 606 women were treated with ionizing radiation for post-partum mastitis, mostly between 1940 and 1955. Two-thirds of all breasts were treated, the average dose per breast being 377 rads (at 2.5 cm breast depth). Mammographic examinations were performed on 265 of these women still residing in this vicinity. Two nonpalpable carcinomas (with no axillary node metastases) were found in the twelve breast lesions that have been biopsied. Some of the biopsies revealed premalignant changes. It is recommended that women in this high-risk category have close medical supervision, as well as periodic mammographic evaluation, and that the importance of periodic breast self-examinations should be emphasized.", "contents": "Increased incidence of breast carcinoma in patients with irradiation for post-partum mastitis: a screening situation. In Rochester, New York, 606 women were treated with ionizing radiation for post-partum mastitis, mostly between 1940 and 1955. Two-thirds of all breasts were treated, the average dose per breast being 377 rads (at 2.5 cm breast depth). Mammographic examinations were performed on 265 of these women still residing in this vicinity. Two nonpalpable carcinomas (with no axillary node metastases) were found in the twelve breast lesions that have been biopsied. Some of the biopsies revealed premalignant changes. It is recommended that women in this high-risk category have close medical supervision, as well as periodic mammographic evaluation, and that the importance of periodic breast self-examinations should be emphasized.", "PMID": 459517} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13780", "title": "Reductive surgery of unresectable lung cancer: a case report.", "content": "The only effective therapy for non-small-cell lung cancers has been surgical resection. In the present study a patient with unresectable adenocarcinoma of the lung was treated by chemoimmunotherapy and surgery, and has been doing well for 19 months following surgery. The case is presented as an example of treatment of advanced lung cancer by combined modality approach.", "contents": "Reductive surgery of unresectable lung cancer: a case report. The only effective therapy for non-small-cell lung cancers has been surgical resection. In the present study a patient with unresectable adenocarcinoma of the lung was treated by chemoimmunotherapy and surgery, and has been doing well for 19 months following surgery. The case is presented as an example of treatment of advanced lung cancer by combined modality approach.", "PMID": 459518} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13781", "title": "Fibroxanthosarcoma of the head and neck.", "content": "Fibroxanthosarcoma is a variant of malignant fibrous histiocytoma probably derived from the primitive tissue histiocyte. It occurs rarely in the head and neck. This lesion may be confused with the benign atypical fibroxanthoma. However, newer histologic criteria may allow definitive differential diagnosis which is important because of the agressive biologic behavior of fibroxanthosarcoma. Aggressive initial surgery with a consideration of regional lymphadenopathy offers the best chance for cure.", "contents": "Fibroxanthosarcoma of the head and neck. Fibroxanthosarcoma is a variant of malignant fibrous histiocytoma probably derived from the primitive tissue histiocyte. It occurs rarely in the head and neck. This lesion may be confused with the benign atypical fibroxanthoma. However, newer histologic criteria may allow definitive differential diagnosis which is important because of the agressive biologic behavior of fibroxanthosarcoma. Aggressive initial surgery with a consideration of regional lymphadenopathy offers the best chance for cure.", "PMID": 459519} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13782", "title": "Survival rates of breast carcinoma patients after surgery and anaesthetic.", "content": "Eighty-nine breast cancer patients were studied for the end result of therapy. During surgery, the anaesthesia administered was either halothane (61 cases) or ether (28 cases) mixture with nitrogen and oxygen. The holstead method for mastectomy was used for all cases. The results showed that the type of anaesthesia influenced the end results of therapy of breast cancer patients. The survival rates of patients receiving halothane were much higher than those of ether anaesthetized cases. The differences were most pronounced among cases who received both preoperative radiotherapy and postoperative chemotherapy, and in cases with metastasis into regional lymph node. A comparison of groups of patients on the basis of such parameters as the anaesthetic used, age and degree of tumor progression (according to TNM classification and post-operative histological assays) showed them to well matched. These results may be explained by the effects of the anaesthesia on the role of immunity in controlling tumor cell implantation and growth of metastasis.", "contents": "Survival rates of breast carcinoma patients after surgery and anaesthetic. Eighty-nine breast cancer patients were studied for the end result of therapy. During surgery, the anaesthesia administered was either halothane (61 cases) or ether (28 cases) mixture with nitrogen and oxygen. The holstead method for mastectomy was used for all cases. The results showed that the type of anaesthesia influenced the end results of therapy of breast cancer patients. The survival rates of patients receiving halothane were much higher than those of ether anaesthetized cases. The differences were most pronounced among cases who received both preoperative radiotherapy and postoperative chemotherapy, and in cases with metastasis into regional lymph node. A comparison of groups of patients on the basis of such parameters as the anaesthetic used, age and degree of tumor progression (according to TNM classification and post-operative histological assays) showed them to well matched. These results may be explained by the effects of the anaesthesia on the role of immunity in controlling tumor cell implantation and growth of metastasis.", "PMID": 459520} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13783", "title": "Spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage from a ruptured hypernephroma.", "content": "The clinical presentation and roentgenographic findings of renal cell carcinoma have been consistently variable. These patients can appear with flank pain mimicking ureteral colic, flank tumors, or symptomatic metastasis [1]. Systemic cardiac manifestations including cardiomegaly with congestive heart failure due to arteriovenous fistula formation have been reported [2] Roentgenographic findings may show the tumor to be either vascular or avascular. It may present as a spontaneous perforation of the pelvic ureteral system which is demonstrated by intravenous pyelography (3). In this article, we describe a case of hypernephroma in a cyst wall causing severe spontaneous hemorrhage in the retroperitoneal space resulting in a state of hypovolemic shock.", "contents": "Spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage from a ruptured hypernephroma. The clinical presentation and roentgenographic findings of renal cell carcinoma have been consistently variable. These patients can appear with flank pain mimicking ureteral colic, flank tumors, or symptomatic metastasis [1]. Systemic cardiac manifestations including cardiomegaly with congestive heart failure due to arteriovenous fistula formation have been reported [2] Roentgenographic findings may show the tumor to be either vascular or avascular. It may present as a spontaneous perforation of the pelvic ureteral system which is demonstrated by intravenous pyelography (3). In this article, we describe a case of hypernephroma in a cyst wall causing severe spontaneous hemorrhage in the retroperitoneal space resulting in a state of hypovolemic shock.", "PMID": 459521} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13784", "title": "Production and secretion of proteolytic enzymes by normal and neoplastic cells.", "content": "A possible mechanism for tumor cell invasion of normal tissue might be secretion of proteolytic enzymes. This study compares and contrasts production and secretion of proteinases by cell cultures of normal and chemically transformed mouse epithelial cells. Lysates of normal and neoplastic cells contain similar amounts of neutral proteinase, cathepsin D and plasminogen activator. Neither collagenase nor elastase could be identified in lysates of, or serum-free culture medium bathing, normal or neoplastic cells. Neoplastic cells secrete ten times more plasminogen activator than normal cells. Our data support the hypothesis that plasminogen activator produced by neoplastic cells could fuction to activate latent proteolytic enzymes secreted by connective tissue cells which might result in spread of neoplastic cells into normal tissue.", "contents": "Production and secretion of proteolytic enzymes by normal and neoplastic cells. A possible mechanism for tumor cell invasion of normal tissue might be secretion of proteolytic enzymes. This study compares and contrasts production and secretion of proteinases by cell cultures of normal and chemically transformed mouse epithelial cells. Lysates of normal and neoplastic cells contain similar amounts of neutral proteinase, cathepsin D and plasminogen activator. Neither collagenase nor elastase could be identified in lysates of, or serum-free culture medium bathing, normal or neoplastic cells. Neoplastic cells secrete ten times more plasminogen activator than normal cells. Our data support the hypothesis that plasminogen activator produced by neoplastic cells could fuction to activate latent proteolytic enzymes secreted by connective tissue cells which might result in spread of neoplastic cells into normal tissue.", "PMID": 459522} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13785", "title": "Thoracic surgeons and their surgical practice.", "content": "The work characteristics of thoracic surgeons were studied as part of a national study of surgeon manpower. Thoracic surgeons were found to have the greatest operative work loads, longest workweeks, and equivalent median incomes compared with all other surgical specialties. The major conclusion that the number of thoracic surgeons was adequate concurs with the findings of the National Thoracic Surgery Manpower Study on number of practitioners.", "contents": "Thoracic surgeons and their surgical practice. The work characteristics of thoracic surgeons were studied as part of a national study of surgeon manpower. Thoracic surgeons were found to have the greatest operative work loads, longest workweeks, and equivalent median incomes compared with all other surgical specialties. The major conclusion that the number of thoracic surgeons was adequate concurs with the findings of the National Thoracic Surgery Manpower Study on number of practitioners.", "PMID": 459523} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13786", "title": "Survival with residual tumor on the bronchial margin after resection for bronchogenic carcinoma.", "content": "Sixty-four (14.7 percent) of 434 consecutive patients having pulmonary resection for bronchogenic carcinoma were found to have microscopic residual tumor on the cut margins of the resected specimens. These subjects were further subdivided histologically into those with direct extension of the tumor (34 patients), lymphatic permeation (14 patients), clumps of cancer cells in parabronchial tissues (six patients), and the presence of carcinoma in situ change (10 patients). Bronchopleural fistulas developed in eight (12.5 percent) of 64 patients. The operative mortality rate was 15.6 percent, with four of the deaths occurring as the result of bronchopleural fistulas. Thirty-two patients (50 percent) survived 1 year, 21 (32.8 percent) survived 3 years, and 15 (23.4 percent) lived for 5 years or more. The patients with tumor in the submucosal and peribronchial lymphatics had the worst prognosis. 78.6 percent having died within 1 year and the remainder within 3 years. All 5-year survivors were men with squamous cell carcinoma and had relatively small tumors (mean diameter 2.9 cm). No direct relationship between the length of the resected bronchial stump and survival could be established; a short stump did not preclude long survival. The possible factors involved in the relatively high 5 year survival rate in this group of patients and the therapeutic implications of these factors are discussed.", "contents": "Survival with residual tumor on the bronchial margin after resection for bronchogenic carcinoma. Sixty-four (14.7 percent) of 434 consecutive patients having pulmonary resection for bronchogenic carcinoma were found to have microscopic residual tumor on the cut margins of the resected specimens. These subjects were further subdivided histologically into those with direct extension of the tumor (34 patients), lymphatic permeation (14 patients), clumps of cancer cells in parabronchial tissues (six patients), and the presence of carcinoma in situ change (10 patients). Bronchopleural fistulas developed in eight (12.5 percent) of 64 patients. The operative mortality rate was 15.6 percent, with four of the deaths occurring as the result of bronchopleural fistulas. Thirty-two patients (50 percent) survived 1 year, 21 (32.8 percent) survived 3 years, and 15 (23.4 percent) lived for 5 years or more. The patients with tumor in the submucosal and peribronchial lymphatics had the worst prognosis. 78.6 percent having died within 1 year and the remainder within 3 years. All 5-year survivors were men with squamous cell carcinoma and had relatively small tumors (mean diameter 2.9 cm). No direct relationship between the length of the resected bronchial stump and survival could be established; a short stump did not preclude long survival. The possible factors involved in the relatively high 5 year survival rate in this group of patients and the therapeutic implications of these factors are discussed.", "PMID": 459524} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13787", "title": "Esophageal-atrial perforation due to recurrent esophagitis 18 years after esophageal bypass surgery.", "content": "A 62-year-old man presented with a grand mal seizure, progressive abdominal distention, and refractory hypotension 18 years after colonic bypass of a benign stricture of the low middle third of the esophagus. He died 3 hours after admission to the hospital. The patient had a history of liniment ingestion in childhood plus a long history of dysphagia and substernal pain. Autopsy disclosed a large ulcer of the anterior wall of the distal esophagus, which had eroded through the posterior wall of the left atrium. Histologic examination revealed chronic esophagitis with fibrous obliteration of the esophageal wall, pericardium, and left atrial myocardium near the site of perforation. Foreign material was present within small arteries of multiple viscera, and in several of these fragments transverse striations were demonstrated. Esophageal-atrial perforation is a rare but fatal complication of chronic esophageal ulceration. The clinical and pathological features of this and previously reported cases of nontraumatic esophageal-atrial perforation are reviewed.", "contents": "Esophageal-atrial perforation due to recurrent esophagitis 18 years after esophageal bypass surgery. A 62-year-old man presented with a grand mal seizure, progressive abdominal distention, and refractory hypotension 18 years after colonic bypass of a benign stricture of the low middle third of the esophagus. He died 3 hours after admission to the hospital. The patient had a history of liniment ingestion in childhood plus a long history of dysphagia and substernal pain. Autopsy disclosed a large ulcer of the anterior wall of the distal esophagus, which had eroded through the posterior wall of the left atrium. Histologic examination revealed chronic esophagitis with fibrous obliteration of the esophageal wall, pericardium, and left atrial myocardium near the site of perforation. Foreign material was present within small arteries of multiple viscera, and in several of these fragments transverse striations were demonstrated. Esophageal-atrial perforation is a rare but fatal complication of chronic esophageal ulceration. The clinical and pathological features of this and previously reported cases of nontraumatic esophageal-atrial perforation are reviewed.", "PMID": 459525} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13788", "title": "Specific afterload reduction with parenteral hydralazine following cardiac surgery.", "content": "In a group of seven patients who had had cardiac operations, intravenous (IV) hydralazine was used to provide afterload reduction in situations of severe left ventricular dysfunction. Despite fluid loading, inotropic support with dopamine, and afterload reduction with sodium nitroprusside, the patients had persistent states of low cardiac output and high systemic vascular resistance. Administration of sodium nitroprusside was limited by its effect on preload and blood pressure, so that it necessitated frequent fluid challenges. The addition of IV hydralazine to this regimen caused a mean increase of 44.7% in the stroke index and a mean reduction of 28.6% in systemic vascular resistance without significant change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure, mean arterial pressure, or heart rate. Rapid weaning of sodium nitroprusside and, on occasion, dopamine was facilitated. Frequent fluid challenges to restore preload were unnecessary. Dose requirements of hydralazine were small: 2.5 to 5.0 mg IV initially, and then a maintenance dose of 2.5 to 7.5 mg IV every 4 to 6 hours. These preliminary clinical observations indicate that in patients with low cardiac output--high resistance states and normal or elevated preload, the important benefit of specific afterload reduction may be provided by parenteral hydrolazine in the early period following cardiac surgery. Prospective, controlled studies with this agent in this situation appear warranted.", "contents": "Specific afterload reduction with parenteral hydralazine following cardiac surgery. In a group of seven patients who had had cardiac operations, intravenous (IV) hydralazine was used to provide afterload reduction in situations of severe left ventricular dysfunction. Despite fluid loading, inotropic support with dopamine, and afterload reduction with sodium nitroprusside, the patients had persistent states of low cardiac output and high systemic vascular resistance. Administration of sodium nitroprusside was limited by its effect on preload and blood pressure, so that it necessitated frequent fluid challenges. The addition of IV hydralazine to this regimen caused a mean increase of 44.7% in the stroke index and a mean reduction of 28.6% in systemic vascular resistance without significant change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure, mean arterial pressure, or heart rate. Rapid weaning of sodium nitroprusside and, on occasion, dopamine was facilitated. Frequent fluid challenges to restore preload were unnecessary. Dose requirements of hydralazine were small: 2.5 to 5.0 mg IV initially, and then a maintenance dose of 2.5 to 7.5 mg IV every 4 to 6 hours. These preliminary clinical observations indicate that in patients with low cardiac output--high resistance states and normal or elevated preload, the important benefit of specific afterload reduction may be provided by parenteral hydrolazine in the early period following cardiac surgery. Prospective, controlled studies with this agent in this situation appear warranted.", "PMID": 459526} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13789", "title": "Hepatitis risk in cardiac surgery patients receiving factor IX concentrates.", "content": "Experience with the clinical use and hepatitis risks of factor IX concentrate (Proplex) in cardiac surgical patients is presented in this report. Seventy-five patients received the concentrate for severe intraoperative or postoperative hemorrhage and 75 patients constituted matched controls. The incidence of probable type B viral hepatitis in patients receiving factor IX concentrate was 13.8 percent (four of 29) versus zero percent (zero of 29) in control patients (difference not significant). However, there was a greater incidence (p less than 0.05) of anti-HBs in patients receiving factor IX concentrate as compared to control subjects. No hepatitis-associated deaths or major morbidity were noted in these patients. It is confirmed that factor IX concentrate carries an associated significant risk of hepatitis. However, its use is justified in certain severe, acquired coagulopathies in which conventional platelet and fresh-frozen plasma therapy is inadequate.", "contents": "Hepatitis risk in cardiac surgery patients receiving factor IX concentrates. Experience with the clinical use and hepatitis risks of factor IX concentrate (Proplex) in cardiac surgical patients is presented in this report. Seventy-five patients received the concentrate for severe intraoperative or postoperative hemorrhage and 75 patients constituted matched controls. The incidence of probable type B viral hepatitis in patients receiving factor IX concentrate was 13.8 percent (four of 29) versus zero percent (zero of 29) in control patients (difference not significant). However, there was a greater incidence (p less than 0.05) of anti-HBs in patients receiving factor IX concentrate as compared to control subjects. No hepatitis-associated deaths or major morbidity were noted in these patients. It is confirmed that factor IX concentrate carries an associated significant risk of hepatitis. However, its use is justified in certain severe, acquired coagulopathies in which conventional platelet and fresh-frozen plasma therapy is inadequate.", "PMID": 459527} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13790", "title": "Myocardial respiration and edema following hypothermic cardioplegia and anoxic arrest.", "content": "The effects of 1 and 2 hours of hypothermic anoxic arrest and cardioplegia induced by Mg-lidocaine, K-Mg, or K on left ventricular mitochondrial respiratory function, blood flow, and edema were studied in 41 mongrel dogs. Mitochondrial respiration was assessed by the indices of oxidative phosphorylation. Myocardial temperature recorded in ventricular septum was kept at 20 degrees C during ischemic arrest and 10 minutes of reperfusion. Cardioplegic solutions did not influence noncoronary blood flow during cross-clamping of the aorta. Mitochondrial respiratory function remained at control levels after 1 hour of ischemia induced by hypothermic anoxic arrest or by Mg-lidocaine or K-Mg hypothermic cardioplegia. Mitochondrial state 3 respiration after 2 hours of anoxic arrest was significantly higher in Mg-lidocaine cardioplegia than in anoxic arrest (p less than 0.05), but myocardial edema was equivalent in both groups. Mg in the cardioplegic solution suppressed mitochondrial nonphosphorylating oxygen consumption. These data suggest that mitochondrial function after 1 hour of ischemic arrest at 20 degrees C and 10 minutes of reperfusion is not significantly depressed, but at 2 hours of ischemic arrest, mitochondrial respiration is significantly impaired. However, hypothermic Mg-lidocaine cardioplegia appears to be more effective in sustaining myocardial respiration than does simple hypothermic anoxic arrest when the anoxic period is extended to 2 hours.", "contents": "Myocardial respiration and edema following hypothermic cardioplegia and anoxic arrest. The effects of 1 and 2 hours of hypothermic anoxic arrest and cardioplegia induced by Mg-lidocaine, K-Mg, or K on left ventricular mitochondrial respiratory function, blood flow, and edema were studied in 41 mongrel dogs. Mitochondrial respiration was assessed by the indices of oxidative phosphorylation. Myocardial temperature recorded in ventricular septum was kept at 20 degrees C during ischemic arrest and 10 minutes of reperfusion. Cardioplegic solutions did not influence noncoronary blood flow during cross-clamping of the aorta. Mitochondrial respiratory function remained at control levels after 1 hour of ischemia induced by hypothermic anoxic arrest or by Mg-lidocaine or K-Mg hypothermic cardioplegia. Mitochondrial state 3 respiration after 2 hours of anoxic arrest was significantly higher in Mg-lidocaine cardioplegia than in anoxic arrest (p less than 0.05), but myocardial edema was equivalent in both groups. Mg in the cardioplegic solution suppressed mitochondrial nonphosphorylating oxygen consumption. These data suggest that mitochondrial function after 1 hour of ischemic arrest at 20 degrees C and 10 minutes of reperfusion is not significantly depressed, but at 2 hours of ischemic arrest, mitochondrial respiration is significantly impaired. However, hypothermic Mg-lidocaine cardioplegia appears to be more effective in sustaining myocardial respiration than does simple hypothermic anoxic arrest when the anoxic period is extended to 2 hours.", "PMID": 459528} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13791", "title": "Iatrogenic myocardial edema with potassium cardioplegia.", "content": "Postischemic myocardial edema depresses left ventricular function and coronary perfusion. Pharmacologic cardioplegia is being used increasingly to enhance myocardial protection during cardiac operations. In the present study we varied the colloid osmotic and osmotic pressures and the infusion pressures of four cardioplegic solutions to determine their respective roles in producing or preventing myocardial edema in a nonischemic setting. We found that myocardial edema during potassium cardioplegia (1) is independent of infusion pressures, (2) is caused by isosmotic crystalloid solutions, (3) is worsened by hyposmolar crystalloid solutions, (4) is avoided by the addition of colloid, and (5) is avoided if the solution is made hyperosmotic with the addition of mannitol.", "contents": "Iatrogenic myocardial edema with potassium cardioplegia. Postischemic myocardial edema depresses left ventricular function and coronary perfusion. Pharmacologic cardioplegia is being used increasingly to enhance myocardial protection during cardiac operations. In the present study we varied the colloid osmotic and osmotic pressures and the infusion pressures of four cardioplegic solutions to determine their respective roles in producing or preventing myocardial edema in a nonischemic setting. We found that myocardial edema during potassium cardioplegia (1) is independent of infusion pressures, (2) is caused by isosmotic crystalloid solutions, (3) is worsened by hyposmolar crystalloid solutions, (4) is avoided by the addition of colloid, and (5) is avoided if the solution is made hyperosmotic with the addition of mannitol.", "PMID": 459529} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13792", "title": "Surgical treatment for hypoplastic left heart syndrome: case reports.", "content": "A 58-day-old girl with hypoplastic left heart syndrome underwent bypass grafting from the pulmonary artery to the descending aorta, ligation of the ductus arteriosus, and banding of the main pulmonary artery distal to the graft. Anastomoses of the graft were performed by partial clamping of the arteries under moderate surface hypothermia. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged from the intensive care unit on the eleventh postoperative day, but she died on the twentieth day of metabolic derangement. Our total experience with this anomaly includes three other infants, and a summary of these patients and applied surgical procedures are presented. Surgical and diagnostic considerations for this anomaly based on our experiences are discussed.", "contents": "Surgical treatment for hypoplastic left heart syndrome: case reports. A 58-day-old girl with hypoplastic left heart syndrome underwent bypass grafting from the pulmonary artery to the descending aorta, ligation of the ductus arteriosus, and banding of the main pulmonary artery distal to the graft. Anastomoses of the graft were performed by partial clamping of the arteries under moderate surface hypothermia. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged from the intensive care unit on the eleventh postoperative day, but she died on the twentieth day of metabolic derangement. Our total experience with this anomaly includes three other infants, and a summary of these patients and applied surgical procedures are presented. Surgical and diagnostic considerations for this anomaly based on our experiences are discussed.", "PMID": 459530} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13793", "title": "Valve replacement for Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve.", "content": "The role of valve replacement in the treatment of Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve remains controversial. Between 1965 and 1977, five patients with Ebstein's anomaly ranging in age from 11 to 57 years (mean 29) underwent tricuspid valve replacement in our institution. All of the patients were cyanotic but one, three were in Functional Class III, and two were in Class IV (New York Heart Association classification). The valve was placed above the coronary sinus. Plication of the atrialized portion of right ventricle was required in only one patient. Four patients had additional closure of an atrial septal defect. There were no deaths. On follow-up (range 1 to 13 years), four patients are in Functional Class I and one is in Class II. None is cyanotic. Four patients are in sinus rhythm and one has a pacemaker because of postoperative complete heart block. We conclude that valve replacement and, when necessary, plication of the atrialized right ventricle produce excellent clinical improvement.", "contents": "Valve replacement for Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve. The role of valve replacement in the treatment of Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve remains controversial. Between 1965 and 1977, five patients with Ebstein's anomaly ranging in age from 11 to 57 years (mean 29) underwent tricuspid valve replacement in our institution. All of the patients were cyanotic but one, three were in Functional Class III, and two were in Class IV (New York Heart Association classification). The valve was placed above the coronary sinus. Plication of the atrialized portion of right ventricle was required in only one patient. Four patients had additional closure of an atrial septal defect. There were no deaths. On follow-up (range 1 to 13 years), four patients are in Functional Class I and one is in Class II. None is cyanotic. Four patients are in sinus rhythm and one has a pacemaker because of postoperative complete heart block. We conclude that valve replacement and, when necessary, plication of the atrialized right ventricle produce excellent clinical improvement.", "PMID": 459531} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13794", "title": "Effects of phenylephrine on transmural distribution of myocardial blood flow in regions supplied by normal and collateral arteries during cardiopulmonary bypass.", "content": "Cardiopulmonary bypass is frequently accompanied by decreased peripheral vascular resistance with resultant hypotension that is unresponsive to increased flow rates. Alpha adrenergic agonists are routinely used to increase peripheral vascular resistance and augment blood pressure. In this study, the effects of the alpha adrenergic stimulant phenylephrine on blood flow distribution during cardiopulmonary bypass in myocardium supplied by normal and collateral arteries were studied in eight mongrel dogs. Microsphere determinations of blood flow were made following augmentation of perfusion pressure with phenylephrine and were compared with intraoperative normotensive and hypotensive control levels. With systemic flow rates held constant, phenylephrine was infused in doses adequate to raise perfusion pressure to normotensive levels following hypotension. In the normal region (NR), blood flow was returned to normotensive control levels with flow favoring the subendocardium. In the region supplied by collateral vessels (CR), however, phenylephrine infusion failed to return flow to the normotensive control level in the subendocardial layer, and the flow imbalance present during hypotension was not corrected. An analogue model of the calculable resistances in the CR is presented, which indicates that phenylephrine increased resistance in the collateral vessels. Associated with this inflow restriction is decreased resistance or vasodilatation of the intramyocardial vessels supplied by collateral coronary arteries.", "contents": "Effects of phenylephrine on transmural distribution of myocardial blood flow in regions supplied by normal and collateral arteries during cardiopulmonary bypass. Cardiopulmonary bypass is frequently accompanied by decreased peripheral vascular resistance with resultant hypotension that is unresponsive to increased flow rates. Alpha adrenergic agonists are routinely used to increase peripheral vascular resistance and augment blood pressure. In this study, the effects of the alpha adrenergic stimulant phenylephrine on blood flow distribution during cardiopulmonary bypass in myocardium supplied by normal and collateral arteries were studied in eight mongrel dogs. Microsphere determinations of blood flow were made following augmentation of perfusion pressure with phenylephrine and were compared with intraoperative normotensive and hypotensive control levels. With systemic flow rates held constant, phenylephrine was infused in doses adequate to raise perfusion pressure to normotensive levels following hypotension. In the normal region (NR), blood flow was returned to normotensive control levels with flow favoring the subendocardium. In the region supplied by collateral vessels (CR), however, phenylephrine infusion failed to return flow to the normotensive control level in the subendocardial layer, and the flow imbalance present during hypotension was not corrected. An analogue model of the calculable resistances in the CR is presented, which indicates that phenylephrine increased resistance in the collateral vessels. Associated with this inflow restriction is decreased resistance or vasodilatation of the intramyocardial vessels supplied by collateral coronary arteries.", "PMID": 459532} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13795", "title": "Efficacy of nitroprusside therapy in postcardiotomy low-output syndrome necessitating intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation.", "content": "Serial hemodynamic measurements were obtained before, during, and after nitroprusside therapy over a 24 hour period in 19 patients requiring intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) for successful weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Nitroprusside, administered in doses ranging from 0.5 to 5 micrograms/kg/min, effected significant reductions in mean aortic pressure and systemic vascular resistance within 20 to 30 minutes. Mean aortic pressure decreased from 108 +/- 22 mm Hg to 85 +/- 27 mm Hg (p less than 0.005). Systemic vascular resistance decreased from 2,705 +/- 1,072 to 1,942 +/- 823 dynes sec cm-5 (p less than 0.005). 2n response to nitroprusside-induced decreases in left venticular afterload, cardiac indes increased from 1.83 +/- 0.58 to 2.04 +/- 0.54 L/min/m2 (p less than 0.025). Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCW), right atrial pressure, right and left ventricular minute work indices, and the rate-pressure products did not change, indicating that nitroprusside administration during IABP further increased cardiac output without increasing ventricular filling pressure, ventricular work, or indices of myocardial oxygen consumption. The data suggest that nitroprusside, in conjunction with volume loading to optimal preload levels (PCW = 15 to 18 mm Hg), augments ventricular performance in postcardiotomy low-output syndrome by lowering impedance to left ventricular ejection through a direct dilator effect on vascular smooth muscle, without a direct effect on cardiac muscle. Thus it is a valuable pharmacologic adjunct during mechanical (IABP) support of the failing circulation.", "contents": "Efficacy of nitroprusside therapy in postcardiotomy low-output syndrome necessitating intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation. Serial hemodynamic measurements were obtained before, during, and after nitroprusside therapy over a 24 hour period in 19 patients requiring intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) for successful weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Nitroprusside, administered in doses ranging from 0.5 to 5 micrograms/kg/min, effected significant reductions in mean aortic pressure and systemic vascular resistance within 20 to 30 minutes. Mean aortic pressure decreased from 108 +/- 22 mm Hg to 85 +/- 27 mm Hg (p less than 0.005). Systemic vascular resistance decreased from 2,705 +/- 1,072 to 1,942 +/- 823 dynes sec cm-5 (p less than 0.005). 2n response to nitroprusside-induced decreases in left venticular afterload, cardiac indes increased from 1.83 +/- 0.58 to 2.04 +/- 0.54 L/min/m2 (p less than 0.025). Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCW), right atrial pressure, right and left ventricular minute work indices, and the rate-pressure products did not change, indicating that nitroprusside administration during IABP further increased cardiac output without increasing ventricular filling pressure, ventricular work, or indices of myocardial oxygen consumption. The data suggest that nitroprusside, in conjunction with volume loading to optimal preload levels (PCW = 15 to 18 mm Hg), augments ventricular performance in postcardiotomy low-output syndrome by lowering impedance to left ventricular ejection through a direct dilator effect on vascular smooth muscle, without a direct effect on cardiac muscle. Thus it is a valuable pharmacologic adjunct during mechanical (IABP) support of the failing circulation.", "PMID": 459533} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13796", "title": "Surgical correction of severe mitral prolapse without mitral insufficiency but with pronounced cardiac arrhythmias.", "content": "Despite what was considered adequate pharmacological treatment, the condition of six patients with severe mitral valve prolapse but with trivial or no mitral regurgitation deteriorated. These patients had marked weakness, chest pain, dyspnea, and arrhythmias. Because these patients found their condition to be intolerable, the prolapsed mitral valve was repaired. Electrocardiography, treadmill stress testing, and left ventirculography performed following operation showed complete repair of the valve and significant improvement over the preoperative findings in all six patients. Repair of the floppy mitral valve did not eradicate all abnormalities; however, it did significantly improve the chest pain, weakness, dyspnea, and arrhythmias in all six patients. Five patients no longer require any medication. The prolapsed mitral valve contributed significantly to the symptoms and arrhythmias, but it could not have been the sole cause for these patients' signs and symptoms. With complete correction of the prolapse in all six patients, few of the signs and symptoms of the disease persisted. Repair of severe mitral valve prolapse without mitral regurgitation is recommended only for those patients who continue to be severely symptomatic from chest pain, dyspnea, or ventricular arrhythmias after an extensive trial of adequate medical therapy.", "contents": "Surgical correction of severe mitral prolapse without mitral insufficiency but with pronounced cardiac arrhythmias. Despite what was considered adequate pharmacological treatment, the condition of six patients with severe mitral valve prolapse but with trivial or no mitral regurgitation deteriorated. These patients had marked weakness, chest pain, dyspnea, and arrhythmias. Because these patients found their condition to be intolerable, the prolapsed mitral valve was repaired. Electrocardiography, treadmill stress testing, and left ventirculography performed following operation showed complete repair of the valve and significant improvement over the preoperative findings in all six patients. Repair of the floppy mitral valve did not eradicate all abnormalities; however, it did significantly improve the chest pain, weakness, dyspnea, and arrhythmias in all six patients. Five patients no longer require any medication. The prolapsed mitral valve contributed significantly to the symptoms and arrhythmias, but it could not have been the sole cause for these patients' signs and symptoms. With complete correction of the prolapse in all six patients, few of the signs and symptoms of the disease persisted. Repair of severe mitral valve prolapse without mitral regurgitation is recommended only for those patients who continue to be severely symptomatic from chest pain, dyspnea, or ventricular arrhythmias after an extensive trial of adequate medical therapy.", "PMID": 459534} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13797", "title": "St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis: in vitro studies.", "content": "The St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis is an all-pyrolitic carbon, bileaflet, low profile, central flow device. Prior to clinical use on intensive program of in vitro and in vivo testing was undertaken. Simulated radiographic studies determined that the tungsten impregnation needed to make the valve leaflets radiopaque was 0.013 inch. Steady-state flow and pulse duplicator studies demonstrated a high ratio of flow orifice to tissue anulus diameter with low transvalvular pressure gradients. Regurgitation was found to be acceptable. Flow visualization revealed central flow through all three flow orifices with minimal turbulence and vorticeal current formation. In vitro comparison with other available cardiac valve devices of various sizes demonstrated superior hemodynamic performance of the St. Jude Medical cardiac valve.", "contents": "St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis: in vitro studies. The St. Jude Medical cardiac valve prosthesis is an all-pyrolitic carbon, bileaflet, low profile, central flow device. Prior to clinical use on intensive program of in vitro and in vivo testing was undertaken. Simulated radiographic studies determined that the tungsten impregnation needed to make the valve leaflets radiopaque was 0.013 inch. Steady-state flow and pulse duplicator studies demonstrated a high ratio of flow orifice to tissue anulus diameter with low transvalvular pressure gradients. Regurgitation was found to be acceptable. Flow visualization revealed central flow through all three flow orifices with minimal turbulence and vorticeal current formation. In vitro comparison with other available cardiac valve devices of various sizes demonstrated superior hemodynamic performance of the St. Jude Medical cardiac valve.", "PMID": 459535} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13798", "title": "The porous-surfaced electrode: a new concept in pacemaker lead design.", "content": "Three major problems which may be encountered with endocardial pacemaker electrodes are a lack of stable position, a chronic increase in stimulation threshold, and a diminishing magnitude of the sensed endocardial signal. These problems are particularly manifest in the atrium. Having previously shown that porous metal surfaces can support stable tissue ingrowth in both bloodstream and soft tissue environments, we set out todetermine the performance of porous-surfaced endocardial pacing electrodes in the atrial position. In two groups of six dogs each, J-shaped atrial leads with Elgiloy electrode tips (2.3 mm. in diameter, 2.3 mm. in length), having either conventional smooth surfaces (control) or porous surfaces (20 to 50 micron particle size) produced by powder metallurgy techniques, were positioned in the right atrial a-pendage. Stimulation thresholds and P-wave amplitude were repeatedly measured until the dogs were put to death 30 w-eks following implantation. The presence or absence of electrode fixation was observed and the atrial tissue reaction was examined grossly and by both light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The porous-surfaced electrodes demonstrated superior long-term stimulation thresholds which, at 30 weeks, averaged less then one third of those in the control group. In addition, the porous group showed a small but significant improvement in the amplitude of the sensed P wave. None of the smooth-surfaced electrodes showed fixation, and the tissue reaction consisted of a thick layer of granulation and fibrous tissue on the underlying endocardium, widely separating the electrode from the myocardium. In contrast, all of the porous-surfaced electrodes were fexed to the endocardium by fibrous tissue ingrowth into the surface pores. This tissue fixation of the electrode tip in close proximity to underlying myocytes explains their superior performance.", "contents": "The porous-surfaced electrode: a new concept in pacemaker lead design. Three major problems which may be encountered with endocardial pacemaker electrodes are a lack of stable position, a chronic increase in stimulation threshold, and a diminishing magnitude of the sensed endocardial signal. These problems are particularly manifest in the atrium. Having previously shown that porous metal surfaces can support stable tissue ingrowth in both bloodstream and soft tissue environments, we set out todetermine the performance of porous-surfaced endocardial pacing electrodes in the atrial position. In two groups of six dogs each, J-shaped atrial leads with Elgiloy electrode tips (2.3 mm. in diameter, 2.3 mm. in length), having either conventional smooth surfaces (control) or porous surfaces (20 to 50 micron particle size) produced by powder metallurgy techniques, were positioned in the right atrial a-pendage. Stimulation thresholds and P-wave amplitude were repeatedly measured until the dogs were put to death 30 w-eks following implantation. The presence or absence of electrode fixation was observed and the atrial tissue reaction was examined grossly and by both light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The porous-surfaced electrodes demonstrated superior long-term stimulation thresholds which, at 30 weeks, averaged less then one third of those in the control group. In addition, the porous group showed a small but significant improvement in the amplitude of the sensed P wave. None of the smooth-surfaced electrodes showed fixation, and the tissue reaction consisted of a thick layer of granulation and fibrous tissue on the underlying endocardium, widely separating the electrode from the myocardium. In contrast, all of the porous-surfaced electrodes were fexed to the endocardium by fibrous tissue ingrowth into the surface pores. This tissue fixation of the electrode tip in close proximity to underlying myocytes explains their superior performance.", "PMID": 459536} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13799", "title": "Long-term atrial pacing for sinus node disease with output-terminal programmagle pacemakers.", "content": "Long-term transvenous atrial pacing for symptomatic sinus node disease, in the absence of atrioventricular conduction disease, confers the advantages of increased cardiac performance and probable freedom from systemic thromboembolism. Conventional ventricular pacing has been preferred, however, because of the complications of atrial pacing, mainly those of electrical and mechanical instability of currently available atrial electrodes. These complications have been circumvented with a new pacemaker, programmable for output terminal. This has allowed the institution of atrial pacing in seven patients, with its attendant advantages and the ability to reprogram noninvasively to ventricular pacing should atrial pacing fail. Such reprogramming has been accomplished without difficulty in one patient who developed second-degree atrioventricular block and one with electrode microdisplacement.", "contents": "Long-term atrial pacing for sinus node disease with output-terminal programmagle pacemakers. Long-term transvenous atrial pacing for symptomatic sinus node disease, in the absence of atrioventricular conduction disease, confers the advantages of increased cardiac performance and probable freedom from systemic thromboembolism. Conventional ventricular pacing has been preferred, however, because of the complications of atrial pacing, mainly those of electrical and mechanical instability of currently available atrial electrodes. These complications have been circumvented with a new pacemaker, programmable for output terminal. This has allowed the institution of atrial pacing in seven patients, with its attendant advantages and the ability to reprogram noninvasively to ventricular pacing should atrial pacing fail. Such reprogramming has been accomplished without difficulty in one patient who developed second-degree atrioventricular block and one with electrode microdisplacement.", "PMID": 459537} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13800", "title": "[Incidence of painful menstruation in Macedonia].", "content": "A total of 6930 pupils born between 1955 and 1966 were inquired by a questionnaire. It has been found that painful menstruation was present in 2786 pupils (40.20%) Along with a high percentage of painful menstruations, a high percentage of menstrual disturbances was recorded in younger pupils. Certain differences were found among the nationalities and also in relation to pupils from towns and villages.", "contents": "[Incidence of painful menstruation in Macedonia]. A total of 6930 pupils born between 1955 and 1966 were inquired by a questionnaire. It has been found that painful menstruation was present in 2786 pupils (40.20%) Along with a high percentage of painful menstruations, a high percentage of menstrual disturbances was recorded in younger pupils. Certain differences were found among the nationalities and also in relation to pupils from towns and villages.", "PMID": 459541} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13801", "title": "[Morphologic analysis of a case of Sheehan's postpartal hypophyseal necrosis].", "content": "The post-mortem finding of a 39-year-old woman with the Sheehan postpartal necrosis of the hypophysis is described. This was the only such case of 16,580 obductions of women in the period from 1961 to 1976. The cause of death was cerebral encephalomalacia and non-specific bronchopneumonia. The death occurred five years after the last delivery and almost three years after the established clinical diagnosis.", "contents": "[Morphologic analysis of a case of Sheehan's postpartal hypophyseal necrosis]. The post-mortem finding of a 39-year-old woman with the Sheehan postpartal necrosis of the hypophysis is described. This was the only such case of 16,580 obductions of women in the period from 1961 to 1976. The cause of death was cerebral encephalomalacia and non-specific bronchopneumonia. The death occurred five years after the last delivery and almost three years after the established clinical diagnosis.", "PMID": 459542} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13802", "title": "[Tuberculous endometritis in the post-menopause].", "content": "During a period of 15 years, 71 cases of genital tuberculosis were diagnosed. Out of the two had postmenopausal tuberculous endometritis and were hospitalized for postmenopausal bleeding. The diagnosis was confirmed by the histological examination of the tissue obtained from the uterus.", "contents": "[Tuberculous endometritis in the post-menopause]. During a period of 15 years, 71 cases of genital tuberculosis were diagnosed. Out of the two had postmenopausal tuberculous endometritis and were hospitalized for postmenopausal bleeding. The diagnosis was confirmed by the histological examination of the tissue obtained from the uterus.", "PMID": 459543} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13803", "title": "[Acute myocardial infarct and pregnancy. A case report].", "content": "The authors describe a case of acute myocardial infarction in a healthy parturient in the 10th I. m. who had a spontaneous delivery without any major complications. Except for a strong stenocardial pain and unequivocal ECG findings, there were no other clinical or laboratory findings characteristic of acute myocardial infarction. The authors consider that a healthy heart in pregnancy is probably protected from myocardial infarction by some known and unknown factors. They claim, however, that myocardial infarction can occur and that it is possible to detect it if adequate attention is paid to stenocarial pain in pregnancy.", "contents": "[Acute myocardial infarct and pregnancy. A case report]. The authors describe a case of acute myocardial infarction in a healthy parturient in the 10th I. m. who had a spontaneous delivery without any major complications. Except for a strong stenocardial pain and unequivocal ECG findings, there were no other clinical or laboratory findings characteristic of acute myocardial infarction. The authors consider that a healthy heart in pregnancy is probably protected from myocardial infarction by some known and unknown factors. They claim, however, that myocardial infarction can occur and that it is possible to detect it if adequate attention is paid to stenocarial pain in pregnancy.", "PMID": 459544} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13804", "title": "[Our 1st experience with paracervical analgesia in cerclage of the cervix].", "content": "Cerclage cervicis in paracervical analgesia with lidocaine and diazepam premedication has proved a very simple procedure. It can successfully be applied in pregnancy, without any harm to mother or fetoplacental unit. Out of a total of 50 cerclage cervicis in 48 women (96%) completed their pregnancy successfully. Earlier these women had had 94 pregnancies but with a successful issue only in 31 cases (32.97%). These results, supported by data on the decreased perinatal mortality from 232.5% to 40%, also fully justify the use of paracervical analgesia by lidocaine.", "contents": "[Our 1st experience with paracervical analgesia in cerclage of the cervix]. Cerclage cervicis in paracervical analgesia with lidocaine and diazepam premedication has proved a very simple procedure. It can successfully be applied in pregnancy, without any harm to mother or fetoplacental unit. Out of a total of 50 cerclage cervicis in 48 women (96%) completed their pregnancy successfully. Earlier these women had had 94 pregnancies but with a successful issue only in 31 cases (32.97%). These results, supported by data on the decreased perinatal mortality from 232.5% to 40%, also fully justify the use of paracervical analgesia by lidocaine.", "PMID": 459546} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13805", "title": "[Qualitative diagnosis of pregnancy using the immunologic Gonavislide test].", "content": "Gonavislide is the latex agglutination \"slide\" test in which, on the basis of a new reaction principle, a direct reaction between HCG and anti-HCG occurs. The test was applied in 300 pregnant and 200 non-pregnant patients. The accuracy of the test in either group was 100% after correction.", "contents": "[Qualitative diagnosis of pregnancy using the immunologic Gonavislide test]. Gonavislide is the latex agglutination \"slide\" test in which, on the basis of a new reaction principle, a direct reaction between HCG and anti-HCG occurs. The test was applied in 300 pregnant and 200 non-pregnant patients. The accuracy of the test in either group was 100% after correction.", "PMID": 459547} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13806", "title": "[Hysterosalpingography in sterility].", "content": "From 1967 to 1975 the authors performed 500 hysterosalpingographies in 851 women examined for sterility. Hysterosalpingography was carried out under the diascopic control of an electronic amplifier and a tele-monitor. As a contrast medium only the water-soluble Joduron U-S (Cilag) was used. In 286 women (57%) primary sterility and 214 (43%) secondary sterility were established. Radiographic analysis revealed 209 anomalies of the uterus, 114 of which related to hypoplastic uterus. In 286 women with primary sterility there was occlusion of one or both tubes in 62 cases (21.67%) and the sactosalpinx of one or both tubes in 48 cases (16.78%). In 214 women with secondary sterility, there was occlusion of one or both tubes in 66 cases (31.30%) and the sactosalpinx of one or both tubes in 48 cases (22.42%). In 500 hysterosalpingographies the intravasation of the contrast medium into the venous system occurred in 23 cases (4.60%) but there was not a single case of unatoward side-effects. Sixty-six women became gravid 1--6 months after hysterosalpingography, without the use any other kind of therapy.", "contents": "[Hysterosalpingography in sterility]. From 1967 to 1975 the authors performed 500 hysterosalpingographies in 851 women examined for sterility. Hysterosalpingography was carried out under the diascopic control of an electronic amplifier and a tele-monitor. As a contrast medium only the water-soluble Joduron U-S (Cilag) was used. In 286 women (57%) primary sterility and 214 (43%) secondary sterility were established. Radiographic analysis revealed 209 anomalies of the uterus, 114 of which related to hypoplastic uterus. In 286 women with primary sterility there was occlusion of one or both tubes in 62 cases (21.67%) and the sactosalpinx of one or both tubes in 48 cases (16.78%). In 214 women with secondary sterility, there was occlusion of one or both tubes in 66 cases (31.30%) and the sactosalpinx of one or both tubes in 48 cases (22.42%). In 500 hysterosalpingographies the intravasation of the contrast medium into the venous system occurred in 23 cases (4.60%) but there was not a single case of unatoward side-effects. Sixty-six women became gravid 1--6 months after hysterosalpingography, without the use any other kind of therapy.", "PMID": 459545} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13807", "title": "Statistical methods in cancer research.", "content": "This chapter has presented and elaborated upon some of the more fundamental statistical methods that can be applied to medical data and that appear most frequently in the present literature. Familiarity with these concepts is necessary for understanding information so analyzed and is the foundation for critical evaluation of a variety of medical data.", "contents": "Statistical methods in cancer research. This chapter has presented and elaborated upon some of the more fundamental statistical methods that can be applied to medical data and that appear most frequently in the present literature. Familiarity with these concepts is necessary for understanding information so analyzed and is the foundation for critical evaluation of a variety of medical data.", "PMID": 459557} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13808", "title": "Cancer of the breast. Screening.", "content": "Screening is a more complicated issue than has been indicated in this chapter. Long-term followup is essential to exclude misleading initial impressions, and survival predictions must stand this test. The problem of interval cancers must be acknowledged, and methods of developing more cost-effective systems that might provide even broader coverage of the population at risk have to be considered. Suffice it to say that mass screening for breast cancer can be accomplished. Large numbers of American women are sufficiently concerned about this disease to participate, as evidenced by the success of the National Cancer Institute/American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Detection Demonstration Projects. It has been demonstrated that breast cancers so small that they would previously be considered a pathological curiosity are detected with surprising frequency. The ultimate effect on survival time by this screening can of course only be determined after passage of time, but there is every reason to believe that it represents one of the really great advances in detection-diagnosis in recent history. The chief detection modality is mammography, and it is to be expected that technological advances in this area will permit images of even greater reliability and resolution at a level of radiation exposure that will be acceptable to everyone. The definitive role of thermography in detection of breast disease has yet to be fully determined. The maximal scientific benefit and the true impact of the screening demonstration projects will be realized only after long-term followup of the 280,000 participants.", "contents": "Cancer of the breast. Screening. Screening is a more complicated issue than has been indicated in this chapter. Long-term followup is essential to exclude misleading initial impressions, and survival predictions must stand this test. The problem of interval cancers must be acknowledged, and methods of developing more cost-effective systems that might provide even broader coverage of the population at risk have to be considered. Suffice it to say that mass screening for breast cancer can be accomplished. Large numbers of American women are sufficiently concerned about this disease to participate, as evidenced by the success of the National Cancer Institute/American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Detection Demonstration Projects. It has been demonstrated that breast cancers so small that they would previously be considered a pathological curiosity are detected with surprising frequency. The ultimate effect on survival time by this screening can of course only be determined after passage of time, but there is every reason to believe that it represents one of the really great advances in detection-diagnosis in recent history. The chief detection modality is mammography, and it is to be expected that technological advances in this area will permit images of even greater reliability and resolution at a level of radiation exposure that will be acceptable to everyone. The definitive role of thermography in detection of breast disease has yet to be fully determined. The maximal scientific benefit and the true impact of the screening demonstration projects will be realized only after long-term followup of the 280,000 participants.", "PMID": 459558} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13809", "title": "Total joint arthroplasty. Introduction to the upper extremity.", "content": "Total joint replacement in the upper extremity has developed in step with that of the lower extremity. The indications for treatment, the place of total joint arthroplasty in contrast to other forms of arthroplasty, and the criteria for patient selection have recently been classified. A number of problem areas are under biomechanical and clinical study, and most investigators are proceeding cautiously. In properly selected patients, however, prosthetic replacement offers great improvement in both relief of pain and joint function, and improvement should continue. The patient and physician should recognize the limitations that are inherent in any \"artificial joint\" replacement. Realistic expectations would be for improvement that approaches, but rarely achieves, normal function.", "contents": "Total joint arthroplasty. Introduction to the upper extremity. Total joint replacement in the upper extremity has developed in step with that of the lower extremity. The indications for treatment, the place of total joint arthroplasty in contrast to other forms of arthroplasty, and the criteria for patient selection have recently been classified. A number of problem areas are under biomechanical and clinical study, and most investigators are proceeding cautiously. In properly selected patients, however, prosthetic replacement offers great improvement in both relief of pain and joint function, and improvement should continue. The patient and physician should recognize the limitations that are inherent in any \"artificial joint\" replacement. Realistic expectations would be for improvement that approaches, but rarely achieves, normal function.", "PMID": 459560} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13810", "title": "Total joint arthroplasty. The shoulder.", "content": "The experience with total shoulder replacement has led to a greater understanding of the large spectrum of pathology which is associated with glenohumeral cartilage loss. For the majority of patients, a simple \"resurfacing\" prosthesis with muscle repair is the best choice. With this type of implant, pain relief is consistent (92% in 50 shoulders), mechanical failures are rare (2%), and, with repair of all muscles, an opportunity is provided for maximal return of function.", "contents": "Total joint arthroplasty. The shoulder. The experience with total shoulder replacement has led to a greater understanding of the large spectrum of pathology which is associated with glenohumeral cartilage loss. For the majority of patients, a simple \"resurfacing\" prosthesis with muscle repair is the best choice. With this type of implant, pain relief is consistent (92% in 50 shoulders), mechanical failures are rare (2%), and, with repair of all muscles, an opportunity is provided for maximal return of function.", "PMID": 459561} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13811", "title": "Total joint arthroplasty. The elbow.", "content": "The first total elbow arthroplasty at the Mayo Clinic was performed in 1972, and it provided markedly superior results compared with previously performed procedures for elbow arthritis. However, a high revision rate (14%), due mainly to loosening (75%), tempered early enthusiasm for the procedure. Prospects for improved design and surgical technique based on our clinical experience and biomechanical data are encouraging. For the present, however, more limited procedures are recommended, and the total elbow arthroplasty is reserved for only a relatively few patients for whom there are no other viable surgical options.", "contents": "Total joint arthroplasty. The elbow. The first total elbow arthroplasty at the Mayo Clinic was performed in 1972, and it provided markedly superior results compared with previously performed procedures for elbow arthritis. However, a high revision rate (14%), due mainly to loosening (75%), tempered early enthusiasm for the procedure. Prospects for improved design and surgical technique based on our clinical experience and biomechanical data are encouraging. For the present, however, more limited procedures are recommended, and the total elbow arthroplasty is reserved for only a relatively few patients for whom there are no other viable surgical options.", "PMID": 459562} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13812", "title": "Total joint arthroplasty. The wrist.", "content": "Total wrist arthroplasty, which has been performed in 101 patients, has proved to be a satisfactory procedure for the relief of pain and provision of mobility in the deformed wrist involved with rheumatoid arthritis. This procedure should not be performed after traumatic conditions in patients who expect to make heavy use of the wrist. Early cases were associated with technical problems in the development of the concept, but at present the procedure is reliable and is most often preferred to arthrodesis inpatients with rheumatoid arthritis.", "contents": "Total joint arthroplasty. The wrist. Total wrist arthroplasty, which has been performed in 101 patients, has proved to be a satisfactory procedure for the relief of pain and provision of mobility in the deformed wrist involved with rheumatoid arthritis. This procedure should not be performed after traumatic conditions in patients who expect to make heavy use of the wrist. Early cases were associated with technical problems in the development of the concept, but at present the procedure is reliable and is most often preferred to arthrodesis inpatients with rheumatoid arthritis.", "PMID": 459563} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13813", "title": "Total joint arthroplasty. The hand.", "content": "Joint replacement in the hand has developed on the basis of improved understanding of the pathophysiologic and the biomechanical factors involved in normal and diseased joints. Compromises are required in prosthetic design and surgical reconstruction, but function and appearance in deformed hands are susceptible to surgical improvement.", "contents": "Total joint arthroplasty. The hand. Joint replacement in the hand has developed on the basis of improved understanding of the pathophysiologic and the biomechanical factors involved in normal and diseased joints. Compromises are required in prosthetic design and surgical reconstruction, but function and appearance in deformed hands are susceptible to surgical improvement.", "PMID": 459564} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13814", "title": "Series on pharmacology in practice. 2. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy.", "content": "The selection of appropriate antiarrhythmic drug therapy depends on a knowledge of the drugs available, their spectrum of action, their pharmacokinetics, and their major side effects. It is important to know how the pharmacokinetics of a drug vary with different disease states so that appropriate adjustments to dosage can be made. Drugs with similar actions can be assigned into groups, and five different groups can be identified. The commonly used antiarrhythmic drugs are reviewed, and some of the newer drugs are discussed.", "contents": "Series on pharmacology in practice. 2. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy. The selection of appropriate antiarrhythmic drug therapy depends on a knowledge of the drugs available, their spectrum of action, their pharmacokinetics, and their major side effects. It is important to know how the pharmacokinetics of a drug vary with different disease states so that appropriate adjustments to dosage can be made. Drugs with similar actions can be assigned into groups, and five different groups can be identified. The commonly used antiarrhythmic drugs are reviewed, and some of the newer drugs are discussed.", "PMID": 459565} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13815", "title": "Usher's syndrome with unusual otologic manifestations.", "content": "Usher's syndrome is characterized by a congenital hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa. Ocular symptoms and signs are usually established at adolescence, and the hearing loss, the onset of which is at a young age, generally remains stable. The following case is of interest, therefore, because the hearing loss that had been present since birth progressed suddenly to total bilateral deafness in adulthood. There were no ocular symptoms at any time; the classic findings of retinitis pigmentosa were disclosed only on routine examination of the eyes.", "contents": "Usher's syndrome with unusual otologic manifestations. Usher's syndrome is characterized by a congenital hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa. Ocular symptoms and signs are usually established at adolescence, and the hearing loss, the onset of which is at a young age, generally remains stable. The following case is of interest, therefore, because the hearing loss that had been present since birth progressed suddenly to total bilateral deafness in adulthood. There were no ocular symptoms at any time; the classic findings of retinitis pigmentosa were disclosed only on routine examination of the eyes.", "PMID": 459566} {"id": "pubmed23n0015_13816", "title": "Use of computed tomography in diagnosis of soft-tissue tumors.", "content": "Soft-tissue tumors can evade the usual diagnostic methods. In the case presented, computed tomography proved to be the best diagnostic tool in demonstrating a malignant extranodal lymphoma. Computed tomography is useful not only in detecting a tumor but also in determining its extent. This aids the surgeon in selecting and conducting the most appropriate operation.", "contents": "Use of computed tomography in diagnosis of soft-tissue tumors. Soft-tissue tumors can evade the usual diagnostic methods. In the case presented, computed tomography proved to be the best diagnostic tool in demonstrating a malignant extranodal lymphoma. Computed tomography is useful not only in detecting a tumor but also in determining its extent. This aids the surgeon in selecting and conducting the most appropriate operation.", "PMID": 459567}